Night Out

Holidays are double edged.  The sweet, sweet Thanksgiving of a God who loves us deeply, family with hearts that show no love limits and enjoyable activities.  Yesterday was a day for remembrance.  Although we sent dad off in the wee morning hours to bring home the bacon, he surprised us by coming home early.  While he was out earning a paycheck those of us who were enjoying the comforts of our jammies at home were Black Friday shopping on-line.  But we had plans.  Plans to spend the after dark hours in a city nestled on the other side of the Siskiyous.  The greeting in Ashland was different than we expected.  We were met with one lane roads, closed city streets and no visible parking.  Undeterred, we pulled into the public parking lot and wow....we got a great spot. 

Although we missed the holiday parade, the excitement in the air drew us to main street.  Flashbacks.  That's what this lady had.  Flashbacks of New Years 2013 in London, England with streets so packed breathing your own air was not an option.  But Tanner and Michelle waved us on.  Again, undeterred we headed north.  The man on the stage was belting out Christmas carols to the congregated crowd.  The nip in the air was an added benefit to the holiday feel and only made us move a little quicker for the warmth of the restaurant we intended to show patronage. 

The decision of the choice of restaurants was claimed by me.  Asian.  My mom and I had eaten at this little Asian place by Lithia Park some time ago and I was anxious to go back but my "fine figure of a man" was always a little unsure.  So I persisted and everyone was glad I did.  The hot meals were a bit spicy in nature and were so yummy.  Leaving with satisfied tummies, we headed again to main street to take in the beautiful lights of the city and our favorite store, Paddington Station.  Browsing is always fun when there is so much to view. 

We ended our holiday night out with coffee at Dutch Bros.  Ya.  The coffee was good but the barista was the highlight.  She was all flustered when asked about powder vs. premixed.  I never really got my answer but her reaction was priceless.  With coffee in hand, we headed back over the Siskiyous in search of Forest Mountain. 

Mugginsville greeted us with the shining Cross that beckons passer byers with enough light to help them see their way.  The crispy new Pinocle deck called us and we obliged.  After winners celebrated with strange dance moves, we all thought it might be best to hit the hay.   Such a delightful day.  That's the double edge.  So loving our family and so missing our family.