There are lots of things I haven't learned in life yet...but that being said...one thing I have learned is that you can always rely on good and true friends. I had the misfortune of having to work both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day this year which in this line of business is pretty par for the course. I got a phone call from good friends of mine..Bill and Diane. Knowing that I was working the interstate they asked me to come over to their place for dinner over the holidays.

I walked in the door at their place only to find that we were having Lobstah for dinnah. Now, only in Maine would one expect to have lobster for Chistmas Eve dinner. If anyone were to know me well enough knows that this is right down my alley. Bill and Dianes two children and mother were also there for the feast. Being that I was in uniform I had to politely decline "the red" or a beer but drank sparkling cider as a beverage (nobody likes a drunk on duty trooper). What great fun to sit there in uniform and crack into a couple lobsters (gave Bill's mom a hand with hers as the shells were a bit rough and slippery). Ever try to crack a lobster without splattering lobster guts or tamale on your uniform? Was quite the feat believe me! I shouldn't complain though, because to have a lobster stain on my uniform would probably be considered a rite of passage in Maine. Maybe a melted butter stain to go with it!! I chased the lobster down with a couple ears of corn and a great salad.

The after dinner conversation was just as pleasant as the lobster! I was sitting at the table while Bills son performed a rear tactical knife approach that would make any warrior proud (toy knife of course). I was then stabbed repeatedly about the neck and back. Future Trooper here? I think it's a definite possibility. Bill's daughter was busy tracking Santa's progress on the NORAD website (Hey Jay, Santa's in Spain! Now he's in Africa!)

Bill and Diane, knowing that my kiddos were headed out west and me having to work, figured that I could use the company and share their Christmas spirit, were quite kind to invite me over for a fabulous feast and a lot of fun to boot. The point of my story is that it brings a great reminder to all of us, that friends and family are truly what the Christmas spirit is all about. It's very easy to get caught up in the present giving and material wishes of Christmas, but what a more meaningful thing is there to this holiday than to share it with wonderful friends! To all the readers...a safe and happy Christmas to everyone and be careful on those roads!! :)  By the way...their having me over tomorrow for lamb!!!!!