I’m posting now, in case the big winterpalooza shuts us down and we revert to ice cave dwellers.  Allie and Billie will evacuate early tomorrow to avoid the worst.  What will we do without the funny puppy face?  I suspect she’ll feel the same.

Anyway, erev Shabbat went nicely, and now I’m home preparing to be “snowed in”.  Knowing the Family, they’ll go dog-sledding (without the dogs).

S made this intricate Lego machine with flowers on it, all from some random pieces I got him.

I’m falling behind again, what with all the eventfulness, so have some photos!

Not to get too ahead of myself, I got to go to Global Foods with A, Allie, K, and S, always a delight.  I stocked up on ingredients for trail mix to snack on, and incense.  Then we adjourned to Kaldi’s Coffee Café for hot drinks.  Finally, we lit the Seventh night candles together, and started setting up for the NYE party.  Avdi mixed some cocktails for us.

Just speaking for myself here, that was the most excellent NYE party in my experience.  Each friend there was totally unique and freethinking, yet it was a perfect mix.  There were old and new friends there, gaming, talking, trying new drinks and foods, or feeling comfortable retreating whenever necessary.  The variety of refreshments, food and otherwise, was incredible, much of it exquisitely created by E.  The atmosphere was warm and inclusive.  S and Billie the dog were in their element–people!!  

I really enjoyed hanging out with Akasha and Gabi and whoever else joined the conversation, and sampling their unusual collection of drinks.  I lost count of all the drinks I tried, but I don’t think I ever got drunk, because of the good company.  We did our countdown and toast and hugs to the new year, and didn’t even need any silly ball going down!  I helped clean up, and then Gabi and Akasha drove me home.

I know at times Avdi was a little overwhelmed with sensory/etc. overload, but he is to be commended for putting together, hosting, and managing a gathering that was both classy and cozy, festive and casual.  Everyone there had understandable dread of the coming year, but knew they were among like-minded friends and allies in a safe space.  We’ll help each other survive and get through it.

I made a brief appearance for the sixth night candle lighting, and Billie the adorable fur ball stole my photo show.  She loves to be wherever the people are; I guess we’re like her pack.  Somehow she managed to be in every photo!  I mean, look at that face.

The days and lights of Chanukah are starting to run together.  The fourth and fifth nights featured friends (Joyce and Allie and Billie the adorable dog), lots of good food and drinks, and gifts for everyone.  I walked to Avdi’s one day, spent the night, and even got to garden a little.  It’s been raining on and off for days, so I can’t do much outside, but there’s never a lack of work to do inside, to burn off some of the home baking calories.

Not long after I walked over to A’s to start the challah, Stacey and the kids arrived.  It was a good reunion.  We caught up, while I did Chanukah/erev preps.  Eventually we lit candles, gave gifts, played with dreidels, and then Avdi made cheese  fritters, and I made potato latkes.  It was quite festive.

I lit the second light by myself this evening, but I know I’m not alone.  A galaxy of Chanukah candles are burning in windows throughout the system tonight.  Also, my first [not-loaded] dreidel spin came up gimel, so that’s auspicious.  I’ll drink l’chaim to that, though not as much as last night.

I’m glad I took Jess up on the invitation to their family christmas day dinner and hangout.  Their kids were home.  We combined it with the first Chanukah light in the evening, lit by Avdi.  Eric actually made superb thick steaks for everyone!  The decadence!  The drinks were amazing, too, maybe too much so!

And, I got to peruse the Attic of the Mysteries and came out with lots of little treasures for the (G)kids.  I got my kitty fix–Odin was happily lazing in comfort, and Pixie even condescended to approach (with snack bribes).

We all sat around the table having an intelligent conversation about political fears.  Then Jess and Avdi even sucked me into a game of Scrabble, which I lost big time, with such formidable opponents.

The best aspect of the evening was just being with extended family in a warm, casual atmosphere, no pressure or expectations.  It was good to see Avdi again, in his element, with no kid-stress for the time being.

Just chillin’ at my apt, playing tunes.  It’s a cool rainy day.  Out back, I caught these shots of early winter colors in the rain.  There’s always beauty to be found in drab surroundings, and my inner sanctum is tricked out just the way I like it, reflecting my self.

Later I’m invited to J’s for dinner.  I get to see my son again!  There may be an expedition to the Attic of the Mysteries.  Maybe I’ll find an ancient ritual toilet seat headdress.  Every day’s an adventure when you’re making the most of the time left.

And alas, they only had enough tchotchkes for one day, or perhaps three.  But Lo, the tchotchkes miraculously multiplied to last for eight days (or however many days were left)!  (How do they do that??)  And that’s before I explore The Attic of the Mysteries.  It is an ancient Chanukah Miracle.  And the children rejoiced.  They’d better, because the money gods are broke.  Oy.