Contrasts....

On Christmas Day, friends Toni and Amanda, Kim and I prepared food to take to some homeless encampments in the Seattle area. We took baked chicken, a spiral ham, mashed potatoes, cookies, oranges, water, and socks.

We estimate that we gave out about 25 meals. We looked for people who tend to be overlooked and more out of the way. If you can imagine a hierarchy of homelessness, we chose the ones on the bottom of the rung--hidden away, protected by freeway overpasses and thick layers of blackberry bushes. This shot below is one of the most "out there" settings that we went to. All the folks were very appreciative and surprised. Of the socks, one gentleman said, "socks are more important than blankets..."

The next night, Saturday December 26th, Kim and I hosted a dinner party at our house.

We had 10 wonderful guests--we were surrounded by laughter, friendship & caring.

Before I could become homeless, I would have to go through many layers of family & friendships.

Believe me when I say, I am so very grateful.

Kim was a hit with her dessert--a pumpkin cheese cake.

Peter took a break from the festivities to let the massage roller bring him comfort.

One last bit of gratitude: Kim just was hired for a very challenging job with the Washington Department of Social and Health Services. She starts Monday, January 4th.
She was chosen from a large pool of applicants and I am very, very, proud of her.

Kim won't say she's proud of this...she says that she is proud of all of our dinner guests who, with all the red wine and beets that were served, didn't get any on the table cloths....
We all have our own points of view.

Best to all of you; Happy New Year--may it bring you health and happiness.