(...and to get the heck off santa's lap!)
fun was had by all at the good old irvine park... the same park in fact that both the chef and myself frequented as tiny tots... clamoring to witness the glory of old saint nick in person. this time around both the fat man and the mrs. were out in full force... not to mention the legions of little rug-rats in their wake. hot cocoa, kahlua, and vodka... mmm... the perfect pick-me-up in what felt like below zero temps. the chefs' family had come prepared... from a hefty supply of peanut brittle to a spare fur coat for little ol' me... we were armed and ready to battle the long line of snotty nosed chillen' and they're photo-fanatic parents. the night was a grand success! ...we came away with a cold nose, a few flailing gabel shots, and a holly, jolly holiday high!