Dec 22 - trimming the tree

I actually did trim the tree in a couple of places, not just hang ornaments. It's not the greatest tree -- a couple of gaps; very weak branches on balsam -- but it will have to do. It's the thought that counts, correct ? In addition to trimming the tree I had to "string it up" -- i.e. support 3-4 branches with string tied to the center trunk. Even some main branches would not support lights and ornaments and any drooping exacerbated the gaps. After tinsel etc. is hung the string won't be noticeable. Perhaps we should get an artificial tree ... it would be a lot easier and it would be perfect !

What else did I do ? Not much. This morning I unpacked the three boxes of CD's and put them on the newly-erected shelves in the games room. The CD's are two-deep on 4 shelves, unsorted but at least tidy. I'm sneezing as I write this just from exposure to the dust ... and that's the last of our unpacking from the move. We have nothing in boxes, nothing in bins ... other than stuff that stays in bins because that's the way to stow it when it's not being used -- like electrical wiring components etc. in my work room.

Getting those shelves in place downstairs has also helped clean up some space in my den. There's still more organizing to do but that will always be the case.

Sandy had a long day in Sudbury, not getting back until close to 7:30 pm. She said that the roads were packed, the stores were packed, Highway 69 to/from Sudbury was busy -- it's the last minute frenzy before Christmas. We'll have a very quiet Christmas here. Jim and Bonnie have left; the Ysseldyks have left; I guess that the Bains and a couple of other cottages are occupied but no-one at this end of the road. It was bitter cold yesterday but sunny and pleasant, if you know what I mean. Out on the lake in the sun it was beautiful ... but when the sun set the chill seeped in. Sandy said that the car thermometer read -17F as she drove along 522 on the way home.

This morning, however, it's getting warmer and will continue to warm throughout the day getting to 32F / 0C tomorrow. Saturday we may get rain -- the temperature is predicted to get up to 7C -- that's the day that I'm supposed to pick up David at the airport. Hopefully the roads will be ok for the drive to/from Toronto.

I got a couple of bites yesterday on my ice fishing rigs but no fish. It's daylight now and I'm going out shortly to drill holes and try my luck again today.

That's it.