Little Silver/Long Branch - Anna does New Jersey

We made it to Neil and Ed's. We split up to spread the joy. Lara joined us for the weekend so it we a a good crowd.

Lunch at the beach and a great bbq dinner in the evening. Plenty of sun so we all ignored the chill and wind.

Christopher must have gotten 10 miles in just running in circles around the house - and everyone took their turn chasing him.

Twin Cities - Anna does MSP

Off to the East Coast to spend the week with the family in suburban NYC. Both Anna and Greg decided to join us for the adventure this year.
Anna is on her first memorable plane flight. Keeping track of the phone and the boarding pass was the biggest job at MSP while we all gathered together for a little dinner before the flight.
Clear at both the start and finish of the flight so the window seat was the perfect spot to check it all out.
We arrived in Newark on 2 different flights within in minutes of each other - and amazingly early.

Saint Paul - catching up with the Mac guys

An evening full of laughs and stories.
We had to get caught up on the Econ classes, the world in general, the roommates, Danny's rubgy and weight lifting regime and just life in general. And of course Dawit's band of ocean pirates!
We had more than enough to cover and never enough time to do it. Scott and Lindsay were able to join in the fun.
Some contacts with Greg as well.............but not lots of news.

New York - hot and cold

Mid-November and I am wandering the streets of New York in a t-shirt. It was warm enough and humid - and rainy. And icy cold by MOnday morning.
An unexpected few days when a whole trip got changed a few days before the flight was leaving.
Had a shopping list from my sister I was wandering looking to get my duties completed.
Despite the wild economic ride we are on, there were tourists and visitors everywhere.
Back again next week as well!

Moscow - the long short week

A three day work week - but certainly the longest three days I have had in some time. Cold winds blowing all over.
Fortunately, with over 10 million people there are still streets I haven't wandered and discovered what they have to offer. It was a bright sunny day which let the additional coolness sneak in. And there is always a breeze, if not a gust, from the north to let you know it is only going to get uglier.
A sunny day, no matter how cool and windy, is enough to get me out and wandering for most of the day. Once on the street you have to pay too much attention to not being hit by vehicles to have anything else on your mind for balance of the walk.
As a walker in Moscow, you have to understand that the cars will hit you - no regrets. If you think they are looking for you or will slow down and stop - it means it is your first day here. A good way to get your attention completely focused!

Moscow - a few snow flakes flying

Nothing of real note, but at last a few snow flakes were flying as we drove to our early evening meeting.............and now with the temps at 0C and with the wind it feels plenty cold for early November.
Will have to get out and practice the trams this weekend so I can get from the apartment to the office when the real snow and cold commences.

Moscow - a city to enjoy at night

I haven't figured out exactly how to catch evenings in Moscow. The city shows itself off best in the evening. I will keep working at it!
Everything is lit and the blemishes are hidden in the dark. At night even the grey and gloom goes away - but it sure is cooling down quick.

Moscow - another holiday and the cold approaches

Russia has an interesting approach to holidays. When the holiday falls on a Tuesday, we work on Saturday and take Monday off. Depending on the type of week it has been the 6th day can be a long one.

But it is sure a short week that follows.

The cold winds from the north came in over the weekend - we definitely had the winter feel to many days. Still holding around 40. Mostly grey and off and on rain.

Moscow - celebrating September/October Birthdays - Part 4

A new addition - Videos - Give them time to work and you can enjoy a few minutes with my Russian Team.

Moscow - celebrating September/October Birthdays - Part 3