Jack's Christmas Luncheon

A large roomful of more than a hundred guests were treated today to the annual Christmas luncheon at Summit House restaurant in the city of Fullerton. The meal included prime rib roast, baked salmon, Caesar salad, steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, wild rice, creamed corn chowder, and holiday dessert cake.

We were welcomed into the room by the sound of live harp music--traditional carols and songs, as well as some unusual and beautiful seasonal pieces from across Europe. During the meal carolers strolled from table to table, and just as the meal was concluding Santa & Mrs. Claus arrived (they parked the reindeer on the lawn outside). All of this was provided by Jack, the man who is our financial planner. Every December he treats all of his clients and thanks them for their business.

We've known Jack since he was a youngster. When he was a young adolescent, he was in the jr. high church youth group that we volunteered with. He now has a lovely wife and four children--the oldest is 14 and the youngest is 6. He has told us more than several times that Mr. Fun is like a dad to him. We have a special and close relationship with Jack and his family.

A number of years ago Jack did a wonderful favor for us, he insisted that we come meet with him to get our finances focused on having a successful retirement. If he had not insisted, well--we're glad he did. The CPA who prepares our taxes each year told us a year ago that he was quite impressed with the man who handles our investments (that would be Jack) because he had saved us from serious losses when the recession hit a couple years ago.

We enjoyed a lovely time this afternoon. We sat at a table that included a couple who are both employed as flight attendants for American Airlines. The conversation with them was interesting. Just as we were about to part ways, I ask, "Where were you two on 9-11?" Their response lead us into a lengthy conversation. I think we could have spent the rest of the afternoon talking with them and listening to their stories. He'll retire as of December 31st. She'll work for another three or four years.

My photos today could have been better; I'm still learning my new camera. One of the kids at the party kindly took my camera to capture the photo of the two of us. So even though the photos are not top-notch, I'm so glad this moment will now be a visual memory.

Good night from Southern California.
Rosie (& Mr. Fun), aka Carol

P.S. Thanks for all the fun comments yesterday about Frosty.