These last few days have been busier than normal (which means I’ve played fewer games of online Sudoku!) starting with the Rotary Christmas party on Thursday night at Wellington Place. This private party venue is part of the restoration for the Gilloiz Theatre in downtown Springfield and offered a boatload of ambiance for our party. While the food was only so-so, the great decor and rocking sounds of Steve Smith and the Sneakers insured a fabulous party. We put our dancing shoes on and danced until the band finally quit playing.
Yesterday I was up bright and early to help Tammy set up her booth for Winterfest. Steve helped us get started and installed the lighting and we finished it up. In my opinion, it looks great but then I’m a tad prejudiced about our family artist shown here assisting customers today. 
Last evening I shopped Winterfest with my friend Cindy and then we ate at the Brewing Company and took in a bit of First Friday Artwalk downtown while Burl hung out at the Shrine. Tammy reported steady business at her booth and during the few hours I assisted today there were very few quiet moments. Despite all the economic gloom and doom, these discerning shoppers appeared to be ready to part with their cash – and credit cards – at about the same pace as last year.
Before I helped Tammy today, I watched Burl and the rest of the Shrine Cruisers in the Shrine Parade. Here he is on his mini-cruiser: 
When he left early this morning he was driving the GoldWing and pulling his mini-cruiser behind it – and the temp was hovering at freezing. I personally thought he was crazy but what do I know? At least the guys had a great time doing their drills for the parade and tonight we’ll put our dancing shoes on again and attend the Shrine Ceremonial Dance after we go out to dinner with friends.
Now I just need to figure out what to wear…….
