Mar 08 Came & went. Business trips for me, and we took out the remaining fir tree. Chainsaw and shredder proving their worth as Dad's latest 'toys'.

Feb 08 Just got back from Kapaonik in Serbia. Skiing was enjoyed by all; both Blake & Lydia not understanding what fear means, and hurtling down slopes at an unprecedented rate. Weather can best be described as different. My own experience of alpine skiing being limited to France and Switzerland, I cannot say I expected the overnight temperatures of -20ºC experienced, with a 'high' on the first two days of -5 ºC! The wearing of face masks for those who were venturing above the lower slopes was definitely de rigour. Later on in the week the temperatures did rise to +5 ºC or so during the day, so it was more what I was expecting.

There were a sufficient number of slopes for the kids and I, although I think Ana ran out of different slopes by day 3 - we were regaled with tales of being taken off piste and practising on blacks after our morning lessons. I was surprised with my limited experience I had to relearn how to turn using carvers, the newer technology from 8 years ago! As a family we have certainly enjoyed the resort, and I think are likely to be back there next year, as there is still sufficient to keep us occupied there.

The Serbs are an interesting bunch, seem to be either 7' tall or short and round! Still very eastern block attitudes, although all friendly. Was very odd for me to be in a place where very few people understood English, and had to use sign language and intuition to get food and drink - although 'beer' remains universal - so I was OK!

Jan 08 Went to Istanbul for the Sales Conference, got to go around the Grand Bazaar and purchase a shirt. 4,000+ shops in one place - not sure if I should regard it as good or bad!.

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