Another Book Sale? This One has a Cash Bar!

Thankfully our high winds and downpours of Tuesday and Wednesday have subsided. Not only that, the sun actually appeared today. That was good news for our county library and historical society's book sale today and tomorrow. Books are selling from noon to 9 pm both days, but from 5 to 9 there is also a cash bar, Christmas trees are for sale outside, and a local man will be selling yule logs on the patio - all taking place at a local inn.

Well you know I couldn't pass that up. After all, as I told Dave, we're trying hard to raise money for the new library building. Then the historical society can take over the entire historical building on the green where at this point books are double stacked, squeezed into unlikely spots, and still most are stuck away in the basement. We really need that new building.

He wouldn't try to keep me away from a book sale anyway so off I went early this afternoon. Walked in and heard, "Now why am I not surprised to see you here?" It was a friend who used to be my editor when I was a reporter for the local paper. About the only time we see each other now is, you guessed it, at book sales. Since there wasn't a big crowd, we had a chance to catch up on each other's lives. It was great to see her, and then I snitched a Sue Grafton right out from under her nose. I must remember to send it to her when I finish reading it. :-)

I spent $25 and came home with a nice stack of mysteries plus two brand new children's books to donate to Toys for Tots. We don't buy Christmas presents anymore but we do remember to donate to good causes and Toys for Tots is one of our favorites. We'll also buy something else for them.

I hope you're all able to squeeze in some fun things just for you during this busy time of year. If nothing else, sit in a hot bath and read for a while. I think women in particular run themselves ragged for the holidays, trying to make everything perfect, and then are too exhausted to enjoy anything. It can never be perfect and the best thing you can give your loved ones is your presence and your love. Happy holidays to all of you.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

To my followers and all of the other people who read my blog from time to time, I'd like to wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. If you're traveling, this will require much patience but I hope you don't have to cancel your plans because of the weather. If you're staying at home like we are, be thankful to stay in a warm, cozy house by the tree and maybe a fireplace.

We used to go away to someplace sunny and warm for the holidays. I remember our last holiday trip to Panama City Beach, FL. It was chilly (only one day warm enough for swimsuits) but we had a great time. New Year's Eve everyone appeared on the beach or their balconies at midnight to blow horns, set off fireworks, and generally celebrate. We saw weddings on the beach on that trip, and a plane went by trailing a marriage proposal for a couple in our hotel. So much fun.

Too often though a holiday trip consisted of dodging storms and paying higher prices. Now we stay home. I have no family and Dave's family lives far away, so we have a special meal and just enjoy a whole day at home doing whatever we like. It appears we'll have freezing rain turning to rain here - good day to stay inside by the stove.

Whatever you do, enjoy.