What a Christmas! We got through all the presents and the usual emotional challenges. I was particularly pleased that Hannah and Simon liked their presents - I had used the strategy to pick presents from the items they wanted at the Science Museum gift shop; I just bought them on the spot and stashed them. The kids had no idea, not even Paul caught on. The clerk was amused and very helpful. She must have seen this sort of thing before. Paul had simply given us a list - he's a very practical boy, it was all off of the Lego web site with prices ranging from the top of what he thought we'd buy to a couple of lower priced items. He told me he knew he wouldn't get all of it, but we did get him his top two. He's a smart, thoughtful boy.

Paul and I had a great visit to Ellen and the clan. We went to the Longstreet Farms, a sort of Colonial demo farm, which I enjoyed greatly and the kids liked seeing the sheep, pigs, cows and chickens. Ellen certianly knows what I like :) Every time I go to a place like that, I think of my dad and how much he'd enjoy it. He knew how all the farm equipment worked. One of the best times we ever had with him was when he and several of the brothers met us in Fairplay and we all visited South Park Museum - Karl might remember the visit, even though he was only about 5 years old then. Karl has a great memory for all sorts of things. Dad really enjoyed explaining how all the horse-drawn wagons worked. I would recommend going if anyone is in Breckenridge or South Park. However, no matter what the season, take a coat. There, I never put away my turtleneck sweaters; here, I've only put away the lightest summer clothing.

Then, yesterday, Paul and I went down to the office and parked the car (looking for free parking) and we walked up to the Walters Art Museum. I wasn't really sure what to expect, but it was wonderful. Paul only went to please me, but he was delighted with the exhibits. There's even one of weapons from the Middle Ages, where he knew all of the weapons. My intention now is to go back on my lunch hour, particularly when I need a peaceful time, and look at the stunning Christian art from the Middle Ages and earlier. There's also a traveling exhibit on missals that I want to examine closely. Fantastic. And at our front door! When Karl comes to visit, I think he'll enjoy the extensive collection from India and China.

Saddam Hussien was executed today. We're off to look at the AlJazerra web site. I wish we could get CNN International.