Winter 2010/11

This winter is thankfully almost over - I am not a fan of the cold, but fortunately this year we had lots of interesting ways to spend our time, thereby distracting me from snow and temperatures.

Thomas and I both enjoyed being part of an Alpha course at our church. Tom helped out a lot more (music team, technical team, group leader...you get the picture) than I. In my defense, I did have an English course to teach which overlapped with the Alpha course. It was great to be part of organzing it and getting to see some growth and changes in our team and the participants. Here's one picture during the weekend retreat as part of the course.


Also we did many wintery and Christmasy things. Here's a pic of me getting ready to make Christmas cookies with - no, that's NOT Tom! It's Hans, the son of some friends of ours and since he lives so close, I get to hang out with him occasionally. He's a big fan of dressing up in the right outfit whatever the occasion. (notice the chef's hat). On a side note, I'm making an official request for 'real' American candy canes next year. The ones here are nothing close.
Finally we buckled down and got ourselves an opera subscription (granted we sit in the nose-bleed section, but that's not the point!). This means that we regularly attend operas, muscials and dances. It's nice to enjoy the wonderful cultural opportunities that Graz offers at an affordable price and with friends, too! Tom took this pic of me and Caitlin at the opera.
What winter would be complete without a visit to Vienna? We get to visit friends and family as well as the Christmas markets. Vienna is truely magical at Christmas time. Any volunteers to visit us next Christmas?