Holiday Party at Rita's 2004
Our gracious hostess Rita shared great food, charming games and sparkling conversation with a number of fun, fascinating, and festively-attired folks!

   

We approach Rita's place...
with its welcoming holiday decorations, and enter to find...
...a houseful of holiday cheer.
Jack and Dave guard the door
Pretty darn good spread!
Dave tries to look oblivious
Dave tries to look interested
While Paul and Tom look on, bemused
Rita checks every last detail...
while Steve listens in.
Rita valiantly attempts to explain the gift-shuffling... game...
putting Paul into a deep, peaceful slumber.
let the game begin!
to the left! no! to the right!
no, left!
no, light...erm, reft, er...
as long as Rita ends up with THIS one...
I think Dave's is...ticking
oh, wow: popcorn bowls!
as long as i don't get stuck with this...spatula...
"oh, lord, i beseech thee, may i keep the popcorn bowls?"
Tom is devising a popcorn bowl 'n' spatula strategy...
...which amuses Dave to no end.
The Boss is laughing with us, not at us!
The gift shuffle ends, and happy recipients...
...display their well-earned prizes.
Steve seems quite happy with...the spatula!
Tom is envious, as Paul gloats.
And now: BALDERDASH!!!
let's just say it: Marzola Is The King Of Balderdash.
Afterwards, Jack pontificates about testimony,
amusing some, enlightening others...
fascinating Tom...and putting Paul back to sleep.