My Cardboard Balcony

Eleven Gifts by Belinda Roddie Eleven gifts were passed around the group, and eleven were opened with delight. Todd's present was a plane that spun a loop over our heads when he controlled it. Dwight received a brand new watch, which he snapped on right away, showing it off to Lorraine, who smiled at her new necklace, which was long and dripping with small diamonds. Color drained from Abby's face when she saw the new ring her husband had bought her. Needless to say, he got plenty of kisses. Jack and Jean, the little twins, got three gifts each - a gray sweater for both, and other trinkets. My gift was the last: A lovely plaid bowtie.

After ten minutes, the comedian's act had already gone stale. He left the stage with his head somewhat bowed, as if he had known how lousy his jokes had been. The next comedian, a young woman with red curls, was absolutely hysterical. She had amazing impressions, a great comedic voice (tone and otherwise), and excellent punchlines. And which one did my male friends like more? I'll give you a hint: He didn't have red curls.