New Year's Eve

Normally on New Year's Eve we go for Thai food with Lee and Cammie, and then to the Drake's for an end of year party with games and raucous behavior for the children, visiting and eating for the adults, and a tree burning at 9:00pm. Because of Covid, the party at the Drake's didn't happen (grrr), and we opted for take-out rather than dining in. A tree burning was still completely in order, so two days ago, I sent out an email to the Rock Canyon Google Group and invited anyone interested to come watch a tree burning. 

Offering a tree burning meant we needed to find a tree. Yesterday we drove around the east side, looking for someone who was not only disposing of their tree, but who had a dry one. We found trees, but many were puny or too fresh. We did find two good options, one exceptionally dry and fairly full. We chose it for our fiery offering.

The kids in the back seat, holding on to the tree we've picked up off the street.

Our tree was so fresh, it sprouted new growth on the end of each branch.

It was waaaaay too fresh to burn.

Lee and Cammie came to our house, along with my mom, and we ate Thai food that took an inordinate amount of time being prepared and arrived somewhat cold. No tom kai gai either (they ran out). Mom and the kids went over to Mikayla's to play games and ring in the new year. Kent and I and Lee and Cammie talked and talked until it was time for the tree burning when many, many people showed up for the flames. The tree burned well, bright and hot, providing enough excitement for all in attendance. It was nice to visit with our neighbors too. We miss them.

Burn baby burn!

The kids returned to Mikayla and Guy's house, Lee and Cammie went home, and Kent and I spent the late part of the evening watching a movie and trying to stay awake. Thank goodness we all get to sleep late. Here's to seeing 2020 end, and here's hoping 2021 sees a return to somewhat normal life.