So our company is throwing a big bash Christmas Party on December 10. At a swanky hotel, with great food, and a 'play' casino event.

My first inclination was to decline. Well, more than an inclination. I actually did decline. Then started getting flack from those that I work with.

Most of the time, I really don't mind being single. But there is something about walking into an event like the company Christmas Party with everyone dressed up and their sig-oth's proudly displayed at their side. I always feel like I have this big sign saying "Can't get a date to save her life" hung on my back. It's the one time I feel wholely inadequate.

And there's also the whole "incident" in 1999 that tainted the experience as well. I'd been dating a co-worker for about 4 years on and off. We were on the downhill side of the relationship at that point, and although we did try to keep our relationship private, it was the worst kept secret in the place. I have a whole tirade of why workplace relationships aren't the best plan but that's for another day. Anyway, JB and I had arrived solo that night since we were a little rocky. I had, however, booked a hotel room because I had figured once we got there, things would smooth over (which they usually did). Of course, you know what they say about 'best laid plans'. There's a joke there somewhere (grin). He got drinking, and then he got drinking some more. He never really was what you would call a Happy Drunk. The next thing I knew he was on the dance floor with some co-op student checking to see if she still had tonsils. Let's just say I did not handle myself decorum and poise. The best part, however, was later in the night. I was in my hotel room when the girls who won the 10-pound box of chocolates in the raffle arrived where we promptly sat on the bed and ate 'til we felt sick.

The funny part of the whole thing is that JB is now one of my closest friends. He's the guy who puts my head on straight when it needs adjusting. But we now at least have learned that anything more than that leads straight to hell in a handbasket.

Anyway....the Christmas Party. After that incident, I have been loathe to go. However, I have been convinced this year, I have to give it a go. Who knows? Maybe they'll be right...