After about  a month of dating, I discovered a strange but wonderful quirk in Tom. HE LOVES TO PLAN SURPRISES!!  I was informed to pack for an over night trip (cold weather) and Dallas was invited. NOW, for those of you who have yet to have had the pleasure of meeting Dallas, the fact that he was invited... this says a lot on Tom's part after only a month of dating. (I love my dog, but he is a hand full) So, I packed. Later that night, we are in the car and driving East. A NIGHT IN TAHOE at the cabin!!

We arrive with plenty of time for casino interaction. Tom supplied me with gambling money and we were on our way. The slot machines were out first stop, and WHOO HOOO Tamara was hot that night. The nickels were really paying out. Tom was in aww of course at my ability. I think I doubled my funds that weekend on the slots. I also had the experience of watching Tom and "The dogs a running" (Peter and Todd know what that one means- long story). Tom then amused me with a little Black Jack skills as well.

The next morning, we watched the Kings Game on TV (playoffs against the Jazz) then in the car for a leisurely drive around the lake with the dog. This actually was the better part of the weekend. A drive around the lake takes about 3-4 hours which allowed for a lot of time to talk and get to know each other.

Castle Stop: We stopped off at the look out spot by the castle for another photo op and I went in search of a water fountain for the dog. There as no water to be found...So, Tom decided to take a little walk down to the stream and get some fresh water. Next thing I hear is a SPLASH!!! Apparently, the snow had created a false illusion of a bank. Tom stepped on the snow, and went right into the water. Dallas should now feel honored! Tom is wet and I am laughing. For several reasons... about the same time Tom slipped and fell in the water, I slipped on a snow bank and landed flat on my bum.  Not too long later there is the whole incident with Dallas and a cute French Poodle in a sweater. Sometimes Dallas get so excited he just can't stand up... so he just collapses (back legs go weak, the whole she-bang).  I am not sure who was more amused, myself at the look on Tom's face or Tom when he watched Dallas make a fool of himself getting the girls attention. (what guys will do for the attention of a pretty girl). Tom made a few comments to Dallas trying to boost his confidence on the way back to the car.. ("Yeah I know Sport... did you see the way she filled out that sweater!") The weekend was a success, it gave me an opportunity to get to know Tom even more and explore the option of couple-hood.