Christmas Tree Decision

Okay, so we decided this year not to get a Christmas Tree. It really wasn't that hard of a decision. Mainly because until yesterday I did not see any Christmas Tree stands. But do not despair for the people of Galway. You can get a fake tree at many retail outlets. Besides if we bought a tree then we would have to get a stand, some ornaments and lights. And there is no way we would be able to get this stuff home, so it would have been a money pit. Besides we are confirmed for Rome for Christmas now. We are spending 5 nights in Rome, from the 21st-26th.

Yesterday I found the first Christmas Tree stand. Well not really a stand, they pretty much took over the sidewalk of a bridge that is near my house:


Our solution:

These are basically a paper mache type tree. Cool decorations. And we will most likely be able to get these home somehow.

On another note, we got our first Christmas card in Galway yesterday! I wasn't even sure if our post worked as we go weeks without mail.

The big "1st card winner" is Vince Cheng. Yes, that Vince from Mountain View to those of you curious. We got back in touch because I play fantasy sports with Dave Sobolewski's brother in law Matt Ronayne. Matt married Cathy Sobolewski who has Vince on her myspace page. Small world. On another note, I never took Vince for the guy that sends his Christmas cards out right after Thanksgiving. I guess people change.

All for now, we are heading to Antwerp this weekend. Our itinerary:
Tonight, Thursday, Dublin airport hotel
Friday, 6:50 am flight to Brussels. Stay at Brussels hotel
Saturday am, train to Antwerp, tour Antwerp while attempting to keep Paty away from diamond shops, then Christmas party with a bunch of people speaking Dutch and hotel provided.
Sunday, train back to Brussels, catch 6 PM flight to Shannon. Then home.

Should be fun!