On the Camera

We only took a few photos over the holidays, but I did pull out the phone and shoot a couple as we got the meal ready for the Christmas dinner we shared with Ben's brother, John, and his family.  Ben had assumed the challenging task of cooking the prime rib roast to the perfect state of doneness, and my SIL Dawn, who has much experience in this regard, acted as consultant.  My twin nephews arranged the cookie tray.  We were inside but were well ventilated with three air purifiers and two box fans/furnace filters running full blast and many of our windows open for increased ventilation.  I think I'll always remember this Christmas as the one where chilly air wafted through the windows and we were serenaded by the sounds of the fans and purifiers.  Still, we were so happy to be together and we had a great time.  

Paul came over on Christmas morning, which was very pleasant, but he was back in his new home by Christmas afternoon to open presents with his roomies.  

We had lunch here outside on the patio with friends and Paul on Christmas Eve, which was nicely festive though the wind kicked up and it was good and chilly.  Everyone dressed warmly and we did have the fire pit and some wine to keep us warm enough.  No photos; we were busy hosting and having fun!

But we did take photos of the carryout "finish at home" dinner we got from the Flagstaff House and cooked up on the 23rd.  Check out the fancy box they packed everything up, complete with a photo to remind you of the amazing view from the dining room and also a fancy pen. 

I think we were supposed to use the pen to check off the elegant list of instructions they sent.  Opening up the box of goodies, following the easy cooking instructions and eating the delicious food made for a fun evening at home.  

When the wind wasn't blowing too hard, the weather has been nice for being outside.  Ben and his friend Kent  got out to rock climb in Boulder Canyon a few days ago and later Kent spotted photographs of them that someone on a neighboring climb had taken and published online.  Pretty cool!  Here's Kent climbing and Ben, in the green shirt, belaying (working the rope to "catch" Kent if he falls).   
 

And here's Ben coming up after Kent and Kent is belaying. I'm showing it in b&w so you can spot Ben easier.  It's hard to see, but rest assure that Kent is hooked into the rock with the rope!  

While we're talking about Ben, I have to show you this one of a "Fetcher cat"  who made friends with Ben while he was walking with our chum Lotus the other day.  Fetcher was our beloved cat who died two years ago.  There are many cats with Fetcher's markings and color, including Sheba, who lives with us now.  Not many have Fetcher's adventurous and friendly personality, but this cat looks like he might. 

But let us not overlook Turbo, who enjoyed the holidays very much and looked very handsome in his holiday bow.  He got two new toys, including a bright red monkey, perfect for playing tug with.   

Speaking of Turbo reminds me of this funny sentiment I spotted online somewhere this week.    

Boulder is expecting a few inches of snow over the next two days and temps in the 30's, so we'll be back to winter weather for a while.  It'll be cold and maybe snowing on New Year's Eve, perfect for staying inside by the fire with Maine lobster and a bottle of champagne!