I close my eyes and realize
my friends are my energy."
-- Anonymous
Our table was the most popular place to laugh at this year's GEAG Christmas party. We missed friend Barb Hasselhorst and pretended she was there by saving her a place setting and name tag
...however, we ate her lil candy basket. There was a drawing for all 15 centerpieces and our tablemate, Paul Greiman, won ours.Here's Helen Fritz and Paul chatting....
.....and if you noticed the video screen in the background - well, that bright idea of some GEAG member showcased the year's contest winners. It was a nice touch.
La Donna Sanson and Jane Reed (our art Q&A contest writer EXTRAORDINAIRE)
posed for me. Steve Koritta is in the background. This guy plays great guitar and sings 60's like he was born back then. V-P of GEAG, Amy Pawlitschek, is turned to Steve, whom she suggested be our background entertainment. Steve's music made for a great evening. He even had a Christmas repertoire. Thanks, Steve! (I know Steve from working at the Allegra Printing, where I have my postcards printed - I was happy to recently introduce him to Libby Reuter, director of the Schmidt Art Center. Libby can use Steve's talents at the many Schmidt receptions. Good luck, Steve. Hope you get a gig at the next reception! 
Here's a photo of Steve playing his guitar, belting out "Like A Bridge Over Troubled Water"....you're a pro, Steve!Betty Powers, my favorite 85-year-old artist and all-around fun person with a zest for life, smiled for the camera. Betty has agreed to do some sittings for me in 2007. I adore this woman. What spunk!
Then there's THIS crazy lady - she reallllly did get a WHITE ELEPHANT as her white elephant gift! Can you believe this woman is a nurse? Still, she's the happiest person I've ever known. Her face glows with happiness. She should bottle that look! We shall paint the town red in 2007! (and blue and green and orange and purple and yellow or whatever strikes our fancy!)
Last, but not least.....Michael Anderson posed for me at the next table - proudly displaying his "white elephant" surprise. Cute, Mike! Michael will have his opening reception as permanent member of the Gateway Gallery in Clayton, Mo. in February. Check out Michael's website at www.michaelandersonstudio.com
