News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior in my hometown. On Thursday morning, we woke to a dump of snow,  about 19cm (8"). It was wet and heavy, but Wendy and I managed to push it to the side, and then I got the snowblower out and pumped it up onto the lawn. We're back to above zero this weekend, the streets have melted, and the driveway is clearing off as well. Wendy bought a new Christmas tree, and set it up. It's has the built-in LEDs and multiple programs for how they light up. Now, she will begin the application of decorations. 

New LED Tree

Wendy has pretty much completed the prep on the new sliding door; I'm looking forward to seeing it all painted up. I got the extra shelves installed in the cupboards, so I think that job is now complete. We have a rail strike distressing the markets here, and then Trump decided to do some more tweeting about China, so it was a bad week on the markets. I remain at quota for the month so far, but with next week being a short week, it'll be a challenge to get a full week's quota and complete the month properly. Sports have been a bit distressing this week. It started off with the Riders unable to score a TD despite being to the 5 yard line about 5 times. As a result, we'll be watching the Bombers playing the Grey Cup tomorrow against Hamilton. I'm picking Hamilton to win it, although I'd sure be happy for Collaros if the Bombers can pull it off! Then, the Leafs continued their losing ways, and decided to lose their coach as well. I was sorry to see him go. I hope they'll play hard for the new guy. They have won their first two under the new regime. The Pens continued to suffer more and more injuries, but still manage to stay in the thick of the playoff standings. The Oilers are doing well, and hold top spot in their division. KU has been raised to #4 in the rankings; they managed a comfortable win this week, but still had over a dozen turnovers—too many! Next week, they have a game that's on TV up here; it'll be nice to see them play. Rock Chalk, Boys. 

Erica spent a couple days in the North Battleford and discovered that they have at least two great restaurants and a good Danish bakery. Eric continued to survive in her absence. It was tough, but he made it through despite almost impossible odds. Liam is working on some animation projects. Haaken is back at work at Tim Hortons after a brief break for their renovations.

Erin and Kristian 'enjoyed' Parent/Teacher conferences on Tuesday. Kristian reports that it was not all sweetness and light, so I guess he'll need to renew his focus and efforts. Erin was not impressed with the teacher's attitude toward Kristian. If you hold low expectations, you can be pretty sure the student will not surpass them! They also need to go back to the audiologist to see if they can get his fm working for his hearing aids. Then, Erin is in charge of the staff Christmas party, so she's been buying and arranging presents for the party tomorrow. At least they had time to decorate their own tree.

Erin/Kristian Tree

Travis has been batching most of the week while Joanna was helping out in Toronto. She is back now, and not enjoying our snow! Meanwhile, they keep getting more and more hockey teams signed up for team and individual pictures. As a result, Travis is unable to keep up with watching his Pens play hockey! Still, things are progressing well with their work, and he got his new printer today! 

And that's about all for this week.