December 17, 2011

We woke this morning to the first snowfall that has accumulated.  It wasn't a lot of snow, but it was nice to see the world all covered in a white blanket.  My run was peaceful and quiet as snowflakes slowly trickled down.  I always like the first few snowfalls - although by late February I know it will start to get old.  Unfortunately, it isn't predicted to last as our temperatures are expected to get up in the low 40's later today.

Busy week for Jo as she had dinner engagements two nights of the week and work is experiencing the usual end of the year rush as everyone tries to clear their to-do lists to enjoy the holidays.  We did sneak in a little fun though as the Trans Siberian Orchestra was in town to play their Christmas special.  The show was fantastic with great songs, singing, music, and the light show.  We have seen this show 6-8 times and it always is a delight.  Jo's sister, Kathy, joined us for the show and we had dinner with her son and his girlfriend before hand.  They were both just done with finals at Marquette, so were tired but happy to have another semester behind them.  On Friday, Kathy and I trekked to the local City Market for a cinnamon roll and either coffee (Kathy) or milk (me).  We are working on making this a tradition whenever she is in town overnight.  Friday night was a Northwestern Mutual holiday event at the CEO's home.  Quite a place since the basement was easily larger than our first house.  It was good to meet more of the people that Jo works with and their significant others (aren't I politically correct) although keeping all the names straight is a challenge.

On the home front, I completed painting the upstairs hallway and replacing many of the aged light switches and outlets in the house.  So it was another busy week on the ladder and with a paint brush for me.  Painting is now on hold to after the holidays so the house isn't all paint smelling while we have visitors.  Also I need to focus some energy on making Christmas cookies as I'm behind on them this year.

Hope everyone is ready for the holiday season as it is just around the corner.