News Update

Another week of fine weather has passed on the shore of Lake Superior in my hometown. We got enough snow late in the week to cover some of the grass on the lawn, so we may have to be satisfied with an approximation of a white Christmas! I recall two green Canadian Christmases past, one in Victoria, one in Dauphin—we went golfing on both occasions! The TSX had a good week even as the US markets lurched downward on Boehner's failure to bring his troops in line, so I had a great week, however, it is a nervous time, and I remain two-thirds in cash. School is out; bus-driving is over for now. It was particularly heart-warming to get Christmas gifts from two Islamic students who ride my bus. I am looking forward to driving in Regina in the January and February, although the lack of a regular route will be a challenge. Wendy has been busy with Christmas preparations including baking. In consideration of my diet, she found some gluten-free flour and made shortbread cookies—not exactly a winner! She also found gluten-free pancake mix—it was very good!

Eric arrived home today for the break. Erica has been counting down the days! Liam was excited to see snow this week, but it melted away in the subsequent rains. He continues with hockey, and enjoys that. Haaken is enjoying his guitar work and even took it to school one day. Grandma's baking production has quickly disappeared; she needs to return and build up a bigger supply!

Kristian has been busy with Christmas concerts and parties until he came down with pink eye! Now, he is on the mend, but remained isolated from school and day care for the latter part of the week. Mark has been helping out with daycare and also attended more than the appropriate number of Christmas concerts with Kristian, Kiara and Kori—you're a trooper! 

Trav keeps busy with work. The hockey photography has paid rich dividends, and also gives Trav & Joanna something to work on together. Gemma and Andrew completed school on Friday, and are looking forward to Christmas celebrations next week. Joanna had the week off, so she has a large surplus of baking for us to work through as we enjoy Christmas day with them!! I've done a treatment on the leaking head gasket for the truck, and it seems to be holding so far.

And a Merry Christmas to one and all.