Whew! The party's over. I think it went well, though there were some imperfections -- for instance, the biscuits I made were too brown on the bottom (even though I used parchment paper). I've had that problem before and I think it may be time to look for new and better baking sheets. But that was minor. Everyone seemed to enjoy the meal, and we had a good time afterward playing games and just talking.

I was very, very tired afterward, but I resisted the urge to take a nap, which would spoil my night's sleep.

Before the party, I spent $67 on groceries and $24 on household supplies. More than I wished to, but at a certain point you just want to get it all done and not worry about what it costs. Variables are now at 89%. I think I have just enough to buy gas for my trip to Michigan this weekend.

I have lots of leftovers. Most of them have gone into the freezer.

This is the official kickoff of Christmas for me and it was a nice beginning.