Grandma Would be Proud

Another jam-packed weekend is beginning its end. Friday night we played at the church auction. We had a slightly crappy attitude about doing it, because it was moved to the gym this year where sound was going to be a very difficult situation. Honestly, the sound wasn't what we are used to, but it wasn't really that bad. Plus, the Community Center was getting too cramped to hold the auction comfortably. The gym gave everyone plenty of room to walk around and had space left for tables and chairs for people to sit at during the live auction. The food was better this year, but the wine has been better in the past. Anyway... Don and I usually play background music during the silent auction and when the live auction starts I switch gears and become "Vanna". I get to model all the jewelry and hold up stuff. It's kinda' fun in a goofy way. Well, this year there was a mink jacket being auctioned off, so I put it on and strutted the stage. No bids. Fr. Bill said, "Ok, do I have an opening bid of $200.00?" No one moved. Then, Don raised his ticket. Of course, my next move was to convince someone to go for $210. Not one hand, so the jacket became mine! I couldn't believe it. Don said that he was just trying to get the bidding started; he didn't necessarily count on taking it home! It is a nice coat and very warm, so it will be great for our trip. As the night went on, Don was told by many women that he got a steal and that more people would have bid if the jacket hadn't been so small. I guess there really were only a handful of people in the room that it would have fit. I had all the women telling me how good it looked and how it was made for me (Our Fourth of July friend told me that, too!). I don't know since I didn't actually see it on! Oh, well. Every girl wants diamonds and furs, right? Now, I have both and a cute story to go along with it.

Yesterday was the 6th Grade Retreat. I won't spend too much time on this other than to say that it was probably the smoothest retreat experience I have had during my Jr. High adventures. The kids were great and very responsive. Plus, Debbie and I had a good plan in place and ample team. I was impressed. I love the 6th graders. I wish I could just pause them at this place in their lives where there's still a willing innocence and the cynicism and "cool" factor haven't taken over yet.

Last night was the bank Christmas party. It was much improved from past years, especially in location. We went from Sam's Town to the Suncoast. Big difference. It was the same ol' mingle, eat and gift exchange game. Don rigged up his ipod, amp and speakers to provide some much needed Christmas music. Most people probably don't realize what a difference music makes in setting the mood for things. We walked into a room that was oppressively quiet and turned it into a warm and festive atmosphere. All they needed was better lighting. Maybe next year. One unexpected moment came when we walked over to the bar and the bartender happened to be a guy that I went to school with from 6th grade through high school. I haven't seen him since Graduation. It is so strange that within the last six months I have run into so many people that I haven't seen for seven or so years. It really is a small town. My friend Barb joked that I can't go anywhere in town without knowing the bartender. He seems to be doing well and is actually the co-founder of a theater group in town (Cockroach Theater for anyone who is interested.). I'll probably check out his stuff, and he encouraged me to spread the word and send over my resume so he can put in his contact files for future shows. So, we'll see... Mark, we need to talk about that one. (Where's your blog? :) )

Now, I'm just chillin' before getting ready for Mass. Only four more weeks after today. Wow.

Christmas Pic of the day:

That's Doreen, Laura and me last year in our Christmas feet PJs from Lisa.