assorted other holidays and general update

Well, Thanksgiving came and went. Despite the distance from home we still managed to eat too much and to celebrate the holiday. We had our own feast at Sharon's house on Thursday with a Turkey and about 15 or so friends in attendance. Then on Saturday we were invited to the home of some American's living here for about 13 years who host a great big feast every year. Both were pot lucks with a huge "Truthahn" and a few traditional sundries provided by the host. The food was great at both and we did the holiday well.
Next we found ourselves full steam into Advent. The local Platz has a nice Weihnachstmarkt every Advent Sunday with a few rides (including Pony's), music, food and crafts and there are lots of other around town to sample as well.
Today is Nikolas which is St. Nikolas Day I suppose. The tradition is that children polish up their shoes and leave them outside the door for Sankt Nikolas who, if one is good of course, will leave fruit, nuts or sweets in them.
Channukah starts tomorrow night and we will do our best to celebrate it. There is a Channukah Bazaar and a few other events around town.
Mary Jo comes next week to spend the holidays and her and Gracie's birthday with us.
Fritz has started taking some classes again at a local school which I think he likes. My class is ending for the year and I plan to try another school as well. The apartment is slowly coming along and we are beginnning to feel at home.
Thinking of our friends and family of course this holiday season and sending our love.
Till later,
Jackie