Although I snapped this photo last week, it could have easily been taken tonight. Other than the cold, the weather would have been perfect to visit the city. As for me, I spent most of the day in the Northern Suburbs, then drove to Yonkers to play games this evening.
- - - - - -
It's been a while since I've seen SWD, and we agreed to meet at the Thai restaurant in Beacon. Sometimes when we meet, lunch is short. But today, we spent 3 hours gabbing at the restaurant. We talked about many things: her husband (nothing negative), her family (typical issues, but mostly pride in her sons), a touch of politics (we are on the opposite sides of the political debate, but can talk civilly about things), and issues with my family (I still wonder what it will be like when we celebrate my dad's birthday). It's amazing how much one can find to talk about when one is ready, willing and able to listen to someone.
Around 3 pm, I took off for the LGBT Center to do a volunteer stint. By the time I got near the Croton reservoir, I veered off the Taconic for a bio break before continuing my southbound journey. By the time I made it to the center, it was 5 pm - not much time to do anything useful. Yet there was enough for me to get 90 minutes of useful time in. But my real reason for going there today was simple - I didn't want to commit to being there on Monday, and I wanted to stop by and wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I also wanted to say hello, in case I don't get the chance to say "goodbye" for a while when working for the census bureau.
A little before 7, I started my drive over to game night, and arrived in time for the first of several games. The 2 children enjoyed the presents I gave them. And I was surprised to receive a couple of my own. Even though I may have had the option to meet GFJ tonight (mentioned by her early in the week), I felt that I had an obligation to these kids. Auntie Marian went out of her way to buy them gifts, and it was important that they get these gifts before Christmas. (Unfortunately, I didn't have the chance to chat with GFJ today, as she called while I was in the middle of my volunteer work. I wanted to call her back before her meetup, but it met 30 minutes earlier than I expected.)
- - - - - -
Tomorrow, I'll be going to my doctor for my annual physical. And then, I'll be driving to Long Island to see my family. Hopefully, there will be no negative developments in either area....
