Before we get to the Christmas gifts, Saturday evening I went to a singles dinner with about 35 people. The white elephant exchange was fun. I’m glad I picked a bottle of wine. As a nomad, the less ‘stuff’ you have to move around, the better.

Christmas gift to myself # 1 – I got lash extensions. It’s my first time, and I love them! It’s expensive for the upkeep, about $75 every 3 weeks, not counting the tip. Here’s a before and after (excuse the bloodshot eyes and no makeup)…

I think they make a big difference.

Christmas gift to myself # 2 – I had a facial. I only get one about every 10 years 😅 I think I look quite dewy/glowy. And with the lash extensions, no more mascara or eyeliner necessary.

Christmas gift to myself # 3 – I had an “it hurts so good massage” at a sports massage place, and it was excellent! I was so relaxed when I got home, I took a 2-hour nap.

Christmas gift to myself # 4 – I purchased a new winter/snow jacket. My other one was about 20 to 25 years old. Of course I have a regular winter coat also.

Since I don’t have anyone to buy Christmas gifts for, I thought I would treat myself.

Wednesday, I was feeling down and a little lonely, so I drove over an hour to hike in the Pike National Forest along the Platte River. I knew the last 7 miles would be on dirt roads, but it was a real adventure. At one point, the road had a 15% grade and it was twisty with no guardrails. I became so nervous and scared, I couldn’t stop my feet from shaking. I didn’t even get a photo because I was so focused. I put my vehicle in snow mode.

We have high wind warnings out and luckily this was the only downed tree I encountered.

My back is feeling better, so it was great to get out. The weather here is in the ’50s and ’60s, unseasonably warm, but you won’t hear me complaining.