Two Weeks and Counting!

Pre-Christmas Preparations are Underway

Brad and I are totally getting excited about the fact that in two weeks we will be waking up from a nap, watching the sun set at 10:00 p.m. and wondering where to go for a $5.00 steak in Buenos Aires. Bring it on.

Our last vacation was a ski trip to Stowe in February. And really, a week of skiing is not so much of a vacation as work on skis. The routine will kill you - especially during President's Week but that is another story.

The only draw back with heading south in December is that it brings all the Christmas preparations forward. Friday night was spent listening to Christmas songs and wrapping presents for my loved ones. Notice the "Dark and Stormy" on the computer table. It helped bridge the gap between the South and Christmas. Also notice the latest Sean Yelland artwork above the desk. Check out this fabulous artist at http://www.seanyelland.com/home.html


Sometimes the loves ones almost become the present.


The other really cool thing we did this weekend was attending an engagement ceremony for one of Brad's co-workers. Nermine works with Brad and her fiance is Phillip. The cermony was held at St. Mark's Coptic Church. I overheard one of Brad's other co-workers lamenting that they had no culture. I knew what she meant. I have never experienced an event with so much tradition. It was really a beautiful ceremony.

This is the couple as they came into the church.

Here they are during the ceremony.

....And after the ceremony.


After all the excitement, it was back home and writing Christmas cards. Everyone is getting the short message this year.