Tis the season...

No matter where you are in the world it seems that this time of year is truly the busiest.  Cynthia went shopping today for Christmas decorations and came home with lots of greenery and even a Chinese Christmas tree (aka Norfolk Pine).  It is about 6-1/2 feet tall and we planted it in a large ceramic vase.  We even had the traditional "Is it straight?" argument just like setting up a real tree back in the states.  Tomorrow night we are going to a champagne tasting and dinner being sponsored by Elle magazine.  A former 3M colleague's wife is an executive with Elle and extended the offer to us - we are looking forward to the evening.  This past weekend marked the final football weekend culminating in the awards banquet on Saturday night where each of the boys received a nice trophy along with a framed team and individual photo.  Sunday was the final final game of the season against a newly formed Chinese team.  They had only been playing for a few weeks so our coaches switched all our boys to new positions to try and even the playing field.  Although the Chinese team put up a gallant effort they were no match for red blooded football loving 8, 9 and 10 year olds.  Landon got to play fullback and scored a 2 point conversion from the five yard line!  The weather was beautiful - blue skies, sunny and in the low 70's which is actually well above the norm for this time of year but we'll take it.  The Cub Scout pack meeting was also on Saturday and Landon earned his Whittling Chip award, table tennis belt loop, football achievement pin and football belt loop.  They also handed out the coveted Pinewood Derby cars for the big race in February - now we just have to come up with a winning design.  I am off to India on Wednesday and Ali arrives on Saturday.  We are busy getting the house ready for her arrival - including having all the rooms painted.  Should make for an eventful week - actually glad I will be on a business trip!