Friday, December 26, 2008

Ornamental Extravaganza


Veronica sure knows how to throw a party and, luckily, I know how to have fun when the opportunity presents itself so it's an ideal arrangement. I wasn't feeling in the holiday spirit at all but her ornament exchange did the trick.

We had everything from sushi to nuts,

had a good yak before the gift exchange,

and ate way too much!

Eighteen women of all ages enjoyed the festivities and, of course, the food! I say women of all ages because Veronica refers to her friends from when she lived in Perth before as her "old timers." I do think she needs another term - perhaps we should have a contest.

There's always room for special desserts or pudding as they say here.

Who could resist Audrea's gorgeous Christmas log? Not me!

An array of prezzies from which to choose.

We drew numbers to decide who got first dibs on the goodies. However, we were allowed to steal a gift from someone else if we coveted it or choose something unopened on the table. It got wild with several items being stolen the maximum number of times.

Shirley Kay displays her stained glass candlestick holders.

Audrey models her ornamental "earrings."

Shirley Kay, Queen of the Stolen Gifts, opens another present.

This shoe tempted me since it reminds me of my godmother, Jeanne.

Karen and Pauline examine Kate's choice.

Sophie stole this DIY ornament to decorate with her daughter.

This first gift was stolen and regained. Ah, sweet revenge!

Nancie gets a Santa - he's popular this time of year!

Marka opens a Santa, only to lose him quickly.

Marka takes a peek before showing the rest of us.

She doesn't want to lose this one too.

My favorite "ornament" - couldn't resist stealing it from Diana.
She took it from Pat but I still feel guilty.

Karen opens a beautiful ceramic plate.

Pat loves her Santa.

Karen only enjoyed this one for a minute before Veronica snatched it.

I think Veronica deserved her choice of gifts for throwing such a great do. And thanks to Shirley Kay for giving me a ride home when I can't find my way out of a paper bag here!

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