We're in a bit of a deep freeze here in the lovely state of Colorado. Had a bit of snow over the weekend and they are expecting more tonight. It has been in the single digits at night. Brrrrrrrr. Where is an icy yodacon when you need it.

A trip to one of the local Wallsmarts this Saturday had a cheerful gift for me. As we were walking in the door, what to my wondering eyes should appear but a man in black and four clones in gear. Ringing their bells so lively and quick. I knew in a moment, I had to take a pic.

On the way in I had to give some money to the Salvation Army Kettle and my wife had to tell them that they made a grown man very happy. The padawan got a candy cane and we went merrily on our way into the store. Luckily my wife *allowed* me to purchase a one time camera from inside so I could get some pictures when we left. As we went down the aisles padawan went on about how big Vader was and that this Darth Vader was nice. The man inside this Darth Vader anyway, and the real Darth Vader is a bad guy. So I was going on too about his life story to her and I said he was Luke Skywalker's father and how he cut of Luke's hand. So she goes on to tell me that he (Luke ) then fell down a hole(core of Bespin). I was impressed she remembered that since it has been over a year since she watched it with me. She would have still been two years old to give you perspective. She is now four as of this past October.

So on the way out I got some pictures of myself and she with them on the way out. The costumes were all very well made which made me wonder if it was just regular employees of Salvation Army or whatever in rented costumes or if they were part of a local fan group volunteering. I meant to ask but in my excitement and the fact that there were lots of others vying for their time, I forgot to ask. I could kick myself, but thats life. I almost went back up there to ask but I felt I better leave them alone. (They did have an important job they were there to do after all) It would be great to find some local groups here to get in league with.

Anyway that was all I had to share for now. I recently made myself some decals for my truck that I will show as soon as it gets warm enough to put them on. I also will have a special Holiday Greeting for all of you as soon as I get it finished. Until next time, May the Force be With You!

-Gold5