On Christmas Day Christine and her family host a White Elephant Party for Christmas orphans.I’m a bit of an orphan this year since I’m separated and not even sure where I will be living in 2017. Christine hosts a potluck dinner with more food than you can imagine and crystal clear Greek 99 proof drinks that will make your toes curl.
Everyone brings a funny or practical white elephant gift and then people picked their gift when a number is pulled from a hat. There is an advantage to having your number pulled later in the proceedings. When you open your gift in front of everyone, you have a choice. You can keep your gift, or exchange your gift with some on who has a be the gift than yours.
I was called up rather late in the process, and picked a large flat package. I ripped the paper, ribbons and bow off. It turned out to be one of those tacky paintings with celebrities sitting around a table playing poker. The only way it could have been worse is if it had been dogs playing poker. I figured I was stuck with it. However, a young college aged boy must have figured it would look good in his man cave dorm room and he stole it from me. I don’t even remember what I got in exchange. with all the downsizing I have been doing moving place to place lately, I doubt I still have it.
This party is a great way to catch up with old friends an make new ones. The large Greek family makes us all feel at home.