Friends Near and Far

So Friday morning wasn't as bad, weather-wise, as they had predicted. It never got really icy on the roadways, so for that I'm grateful. But it was still so very nice to sleep in...at least until the sun got too bright. I gathered up my courage and went to the mall (maul) to pick up some gift cards for my brother's kids. But first, a lovely little package appeared on my porch:

Lo-and-behold, presents from Lorena! Plus, a surprise Hanks gift certificate from Joe! Those sneaky little bastards... I'm not opening the wrapped presents yet, but the soap looks and smells absolutely divine.

After realizing how much I hate big-box-mall-stores this time of year, I did a little more shopping in the village, picking up a few things for work people and such. Then it was off to a friend's house to work on something for another friend (can't get specific here yet, alas - but it's good). Wine was flowing freely, and I got home way past my bedtime. A lovely day off.

Saturday was another day to lay low - with laundry, general housework, and some grocery shopping. I also picked up some wine to go over to another friend's house - he and his wife were having a holiday party and also celebrating his recent kick-ass diploma-getting skills. Lots of coworkers there - lots of food, wine, and beer...the next thing I know, it's 5am and we're finally putting an end to the "evening." Needless to say, Sunday was rough. Very rough.

Today brought the harsh reality of being productive at work, but this evening brought a couple of lovely surprises...
A lovely Winnie-and-Piglet hug from my dear friend Sunshine, with whom I'd recently become reacquainted on Facebook. It was such a perfect bright spot in an otherwise crappy day, THANK YOU, dear!

I also got plenty of Christmas/Holiday cards, one of which had an odd bulge to it. It was the sweetest card from Lulu (Willow's First Mum), with the cutest little cake stitchmarkers in it. I couldn't get a good picture though - not good with closeups on this camera in artificial light.

And so now I have a smile that won't quit, some knitting to do, and some holiday cards to get started on. I totally skipped out on them last year, and I'll feel really bad if I do it again.

Thanks for the prezzies, friends! Mwah!