X-mas eve at the Aubins

I’m finally catching my breath long enough to record and entry.  On Wednesday we drove from Cleveland to Clifton Park, NY to see my friend Mike. We stayed with him 1 night. He brews his own beer so we had a few of those and they went down way too easy . The next morning we went for a nice long walk in the snow along the Erie Canal. He’s got a new dog from the pound and he enjoyed the walk as much as we did. We saw 3 bluebirds and got a nice workout.

On Thursday afternoon we drove to Bennington, checked in to the Best Western and went to see my good friends Tim and Julie. I really enjoy them. Julie is a teacher (actually speech specialist of some kind). She’s a prolific reader like me and I could talk with her for hours. Tim is an outdoor fanatic, even more than me. We spent some time talking at their place until they had to go out. The next morning I hooked up with them again and we went for a nice long XC ski at Woodford State Park. The snow there was about 20 inches deep and the temp was righ at 32. Perfect ski day. We came upon a beaver dam and saw holes where the beaver came up through the ice and walked along the ice to his lodge. The tracks they leave are very interesting with their tails dragging behind. Their kids were both home from college so Justin hooked up with their son Devin and they were together the entire time we were there.

On Thursday night we got together with another couple I really like, Bob and Laura. Her daughter Jenna came with us to dinner at a place called "Kevin at Mike’s Place III" Odd name and I’m not sure of the origin but the food sure is good. We laughed through the entire dinner and before we knew it it was 10:00. Great times!

Friday afternoon after the ski we drove to Diane’s sister’s house. We arrived at 6 and had dinner reservations for 7. They have a new dog (Yorkshire Terrier) and he’s the center of attention.

Today I’m observing the planning and preparation of the evening meal. There will be 17 people! Should be interesting. Everyone is already on edge. Justin is going out to the Y to lift weights. Bill and I are heading to the store in a few minutes.  More later.