December 24, 2008

White Dog was ready at 3pm when the first guests arrived. She stood in the entry barking a festive greeting and wagging a "Welcome, Merry Christmas!" All afternoon and evening White Dog circulated among the guests sitting and listening politely, being admired, and sharing bites from the extensive buffet (especially the Spanish beef with cheese sandwiches and Richard's posole). When gifts were exchanged White Dog became the wrapping paper police, gathering up stray bits for the trash bag. As a recipient, White Dog's impeccable manners shined. She sat to accept the present, sniffed it thoroughly, and then brought it over for assistance in the opening. Every time, she remembered to thank the giver! At 10:30pm when the last guest (of about 50) waved goodbye, White Dog could barely lift her sleepy head to wish him a "Happy New Year."