So, on December 8, CAPS gathered on its regular meeting day. But instead of meeting at our usual digs, we headed up the Montrose Bowling lanes. It’s a fun, amiable place, and it can be booked for private parties. In fact, as I arrived, one couple strolled in the door, missing the “Private Party” sign on the front door. They came back out as I was going in.
Inside in the warmth (it was chilly out!), some of the Usual Suspects were already arrived and sending bowling balls down the lanes. Age seemed to be no obstacle.
Nat was busy instructing his son in this entertaining activity.
I ended up not taking any pictures of the feast that was spread for us, perhaps because I was really hungry myself. Plenty of salad and rolls, delicioius grilled chicken breasts, beef brisket (yum!), plenty of mashed potatoes, fresh cooked veggies, and a really nice selection of desserts. Nobody walked away unfed (unless it was by choice).
Some folks continued bowling while others dined, but eventually we all paused for the small amount of ceremony in the festivities.
First off, Bill led us in a toast to the legendary Jerry Robinson. News of Robinson’s death had been circulating all day.
Then Pat stated drawing out numbers for those of us who brought items for the gift exchange. First one up just happened to be Bob.
Simpsons glasses! Yay. What followed was quite a variety of comics and cartoon (and animation) related objects.
This one was a bit puzzling, though —
(Hey! I’m a writer! Of course I’m going to go for the pun!)
Then there was this really Mickey Mouse present —
Some of the gifts were mere Peanuts. Chocolate, but still Peanuts.
The gift exchange was a nightmare for Steve, though. Well… a “Nightmare Before Christmas” (it was the one I brought).
Meanwhile, Jim was feeling neglected because his number still hadn’t come up. This is what happens to him when he’s let out to parties without his bride.
Brad got all wrapped up in Toy Story —
Sergio met up with Popeye.
Finally, Jim’s number came up. It turned out super for him — a really large Superman mug.
Someone contributed original artwork to the exchange, which got duly checked out.
These pictures only represent part of the gathering, of course. Not all of the pictures turned out well (figures in motion, blurry). And then I also ran down the battery (I really have to remember to fully charge the battery before events!).
It really was a fun evening. Nobody was taking the bowling too seriously. I even gave it a bit of a try as the evening wore down. Busted my thumbnail on my first bowl in years and years, but it didn’t draw blood, so it was okay. The fun of being around good friends outweighed it.
