Comings and goings

The past 10 days were as follows:

• We set off for Denver to enjoy our turkey and mashed potatoes with Team Tag and Tracy. We endured road conditions like this:

These pictures were taken only at times when I dared to take my face out of its hiding place in my pillow. So in other words, these pictures show the better conditions.

• Clara clowned around with her BFF, Lucy. I chose this picture specifically because it demonstrates the jovial atmosphere.

• While in Denver, Tom and I participated in another murder mystery party with Tom's family and friends.
The Chicago Caper. It was a fun one.

Our costumes happen to look strikingly similar to the ones we wore for our murder mystery. Only—I borrowed a certain wig, feather boa and cigarette holder that also happened to make its appearance at that same party. And get this. Nicole, who sported the wig, boa and cigarette holder at MMP1 (that stands for Murder Mystery Party 1) took the much sought-after "Best Costume" award. And I, sporting the wig, boa and cigarette holder at MMP2, also was awarded "Best Costume." They must be magic. What other explanation could there even be? Anyway, if you happen to be participating in MMP3 and are just dying to win best costume, I bet I could pull some strings and get Nicole to let you borrow them.

• Two days after we arrived home our second super guppy died. I found it noble that he held on through our Thanksgiving vacation. Probably because he wanted to say goodbye. Now, you might think I'm having a celebration over here—but actually in recent weeks I've had a total change of heart concerning our fish. See, we bought the little guys in December of 2008. And it struck me awhile back—who manages to keep a guppy alive for TWO WHOLE YEARS?? Season Giles does, that's who. I thought it could be my main claim to fame. You know—and then there'd be a hush that would take over crowds whenever I entered the premises because, "She's the girl that kept a guppy alive for two years!" they'd all whisper. But the jerk had to keel over on November 29th. Anyway, once the little algae sucker follows suit there will be a nice new piece of real estate on Clara's wall table. I've seen a few of her stuffed animals eyeing it greedily.

• Let's see, what else? Tom said farewell to the Art Institute and is switching to the animation program at Utah Valley University in January. Long story. We feel like this is a wise move, however.

• I put up our 2-foot debilitated Christmas tree. It took all of about 20 minutes. I couldn't wait to show it to Clara the next morning. She wasn't even slightly interested. Talk about a bah-humbug. Oh and I created my mother's Christmas 2010 newsletter. I do it every year. Except for that one year. Anyway, want a sneak-peek? Sure! But only because I'm overcome with the Christmas spirit. Here is an excerpt: "Greyson was baptized this year, started Cub Scouts, and also builds entire metropolises with Legos. With no hands."

• I do believe that brings me to today. I managed to catch a cold. It's done wonders to my voice. I can't decide if I sound more like a big, brawny man or a stinky lady that smokes 12 packs of cigarettes a day. Whatever the case might be, I never got out of my pajamas today, because that is my right as a sick person. And check these puppies out:

Tom gave me these last year for Christmas. With all the love in his heart. That being said, I'm fully willing to admit their hideousness. However I think the benefits might outweigh such hideousness. Such as:
—They keep my feet warm. My feet go through a deepfreeze from October-March of each year.
—They're super slippery, which makes for great fun on tiled and wood surfaces.
—Not only do they keep my feet warm, but they also keep my ankles and halfway up my calves warm.
—Should I ever feel the need to dress up as the Cookie Monster, I've already got the foot region completely taken care of.

I'm not the only one around here with fancy feet. Clara's got it goin' on too: