‘Tis The Season

Happy Winter Solstice, everyone! Of course, no one here truly believes that winter is here, judging by the fact that we have had only one “snow day,” and even that was a laugh because we barely had enough to define as a dusting. Jeff hasn’t even bothered to put the usual sand bags in the bed of the pickup since the roads are bone dry and traction is a non-issue these days. However, we know from past experience that the weather around here can change pretty suddenly, so it might be a whole ‘nother story in a week or two.

Yesterday, we had a nice visit from Jeff’s brother and his family here at our home in Massachusetts and, with his parents also in attendance, we enjoyed a nice, early Christmas dinner of lasagna, salad, and Texas toast! The cousins really enjoyed each other’s company and had a great time opening presents later in the evening that Santa brought us the other day (you know, to get a head start on his deliveries). Next week, we plan to make a trip out to New York for a visit with Tiffany’s family for a few days since Jeff will have the week off; otherwise, we plan to keep things low-key while we enjoy the waning moments of 2006!

Back on the Red Sox front, Boston finally got its man last week – Daisuke Matsuzaka, the Japanese pitching phenom whom Red Sox Nation has already dubbed “Dice-K” and whom expect to continue in the tradition of Roger Clemens and Pedro Martinez before him. Six years, $52 million with options that might bring the final value of the contract up to $60 million. Boston also picked up a few other players in recent weeks – shortstop Julio Lugo, reliever Brendan Donnelly, and outfielder J.D. Drew, though Drew’s contract has still not been finalized to this point. Two years after bringing a championship to Boston, the look of the Red Sox is getting to be less and less like it did in 2004. Still, Matsuzaka’s signing has got the hot stove fired up once again, even with the Patriots one win away from another division title and a playoff spot. Spring training officially begins on 16 February when pitchers and catchers are scheduled to report to Fort Myers, so mark your calendars!

Well, we wish everyone a Merry Christmas and, to our Jewish friends, a belated Happy Hanukkah! May the spirit of the season keep your warm and merry!