Friday evening was the official kick off to what makes my holiday so special. My annual tradition of a Christmas celebration with my dear friend, Victoria, who I lovingly refer to as Sistah V.

Joie joined in the fun and this was her first sleepover as we snuggled into Sistah V’s cozy little home on 22nd Street.  The home of her grandparents, and where her Mom grew up, you get such a warm feeling of nostalgia when visiting.  I can just imagine all the stories within those walls.

Snuggled into our comfy clothes, and me with my slippers on, and Joie wrapped up in her blanket, we set off to drive through a local park that was decked out in spectacular holiday lights.  All proceeds from the drive through light show go to a local food pantry.

When we returned back home, wine, shrimp soup and pizza while we watched the DVD I brought, “Take Peace” which is a documentary about Tasha Tudor and how she celebrated Christmas was perfect for two friends who love getting lost in the world of creativity.

Last but not least, as you can see, Joie made herself at home while we opened gifts.  She was quite intrigued with Sistah V as she read the card I gave her. It was as if she understood. It was so darn cute. She also got in the fun and modeled for Sistah V the beautiful, super soft scarf I got for her from a little French boutique called Allechant.

Off to bed we went happy in our hearts for the dear friendship we share.  And as always, Sistah V, who could run the most spectacular B & B treated me to a wonderful breakfast of fresh blueberry pancakes, bacon, pineapple and grapes, and tea as we watched the DVD from the 70’s called, “A House without a Christmas Tree” with Lisa Lucas and Jason Robards.

Our time together ended way too soon, as it always does. But as I drove home, I gave thanks once again for the special sistah-hood friendship that Sistah V and Sistah B share.

Psssst… Joie here.  My mom is busy working so she sent me to give you an update.  She is busy working on reviewing the first proof layout of her book.  I took a little peek myself and wait till you see– it is coming along quite beautifully. You will love all the adorable photos.  Well, it would be even better if there were some of me… oh well, maybe there will be a book about me someday.  Mom says, “You never know.”  But mom is very happy how it is coming together because she is doing this thing called, “The Happy Dance.” I need to learn how to do that with her, so I can join in.  She also wants everyone to know that she is planning a special edition copy of her book which she hopes to release in mid-January. She said something to the account that it will all depend on if she does not have to stop every five minutes and pet me.  I say, good luck with that!

She also just got home from taking Kylie to the vet and I swear she was doing an Irish jig because it looked as if her feet weren’t even touching the ground and the smile on her face was almost touching her ears!  Well, here I come to find out that Kylie, who has been on a diet since September, lost 7.6 pounds!  I will now learn the Irish Jig too so I can dance with her and celebrate.  Celebrations mean Kylie and me get extra kisses on top of the at least 1,000 we get already each day.  Told you it was good news all around today!

So I must give credit where credit is due and say I know how much Kylie loves to play with me since I arrived.  I think that has helped with her losing weight, so I shall take a big chunk of credit for that.  Well, that is all about all I can type for now as my little legs are getting tired.  Time for this little one to doze off in front of the fireplace and dream of happy dances and Irish Jig’s.