Somehow, I knew that in the ancient language, it said something like 'Hi Mom!' Katie looked irritated for a moment, and then laughed along with everyo...e as Lisa blushed. I knew Lisa understood the greeting.We all walked into the back room with the maps and chambers. The place lit up like a Christmas tree as chambers started lighting up with each girl's colors. The only ones that didn't have a chamber light up for them were John and Rhonda, as expected. I had wondered about Rhonda before,. Might not taste the greatest, but it’s hot.’ He smiled and held it out to her. Sharon tentatively took the thermos, waiting until he had put the truck into gear and started down the highway before pouring a small cup. She offered it to him. ‘Why, thanks, little lady,’ he said, quickly downing the steaming liquid and making a face as he handed the cup back. ‘Yep, just as I said, tastes like shit, but does the trick.’ He winked at her and returned his attention to the road, humming some country. "Mary calmly replied, "Know what? I'm not a girl, I'm a woman."Any normal person would have run for their life while Mary stood therechallenging his very existence. "You and your friends need to go sitdown." You need to get out of my way!" he growled as he went to push her outof his way.Taking hold of his offending hand, she pulled him off balance, causinghim to fall flat on his face. He struggled to back on his feet andsaid, "I'll hit you now!"He reached for her again but this time she moved. It was nearing Christmas and with thesnow predictions we were almost certain to have more snow days soon aswell.When I came in from doing my chores, mom asked me, "Walter, could you runup to the attic and get the ornaments for the tree? Your Dad will be homesoon with the tree, and I want to start decorating right away."I was a bit puzzled. In the past she took the boxes with ornaments downherself. Only a few times when she was very busy had she asked us to doit. But she didn't look too busy.