December 24th and 25th, 2008

Snowy Colorado

Wednesday night

Last night I went to an "orphans" Christmas eve dinner with the Durango Seniors Outdoors Singles group.  I joined a few weeks ago, but I had never gone to any of their outings, and so I didn't know anyone.  The other day I called the person giving the dinner and asked if it would be appropriate if I went.  She said they'd be glad to have me.  So, then, I had to go!

If you know me, and you do (!), you know that I am not a party girl.  I'm not even comfortable at parties where I know everyone.  So, this was an incredible stretch for me.  But . . . this is the new me, and I'm not the same person as I used to be.  I had to do this, and I knew it would be fine.

It was.  I did myself proud, honestly!  I went from wallflower to . . . well, almost comfortable.  Everyone welcomed me in, and I had a great time.  I talked to a lot of people and felt pretty comfortable doing it.  What a great experience it was for me.  I was the youngest, but oh well.

It reminded me of another time in my life.  I was living in Lake Tahoe and had just broken up with my long time boyfriend, Ed.  Like now, I wanted to meet some new people . . . and, well, some new men!  So, I joined the rock and mineral club, since I'm into that.  I went to the first meeting, and there, too, I was the youngest . . . but at that club, I was the youngest by at least twenty years!  I didn't stay long with that group!  But, my new group, I think will benefit me with a lot of new, good friends.

Thursday, Christmas Day

More snow.

I love when it snows on Christmas day.  What a wonderful gift that is.  I wanted to go to the movies today, but, oh well!  I had pizza and coke and too much pie and ice cream.  Way too much.  

I sat by the window watching the snow and working on my computer.  I thought about how grateful I am to have such incredibly wonderful friends in my life.  I am so lucky!  The joy just bubbled up inside of me.

The last few years my Mom was in Los Angeles, after my brothers all left town, I always felt bad when my Mom had to spend Christmas alone.  She always said, "It's just another day," and I never believed her.  But, now, I see.  She was right.  It's true.  I am so blessed to have such wonderful friends, and I wasn't really alone at all . . . I had their love and support to keep me company.

Life is sweet.