Happy New Year!

We started with our traditional sushi fest.  In this case, sashimi fest.

Diane got some poppers, which are always fun.

Its a challenge to catch them inflight on film (or chip in this case)

But they were good with the timing.

This may be the most synchronized one.

Everyone was excited about starting a new year.  It could be a good one.

ILLINI WIN!

It was time for the annual Illini game in Chicago at the United Center.  They were playing Auburn.  They had lost the past 3 years.  Last years game was particularly brutal because they were 9-0 before they lost to Nevada 48-64.  It was the beginning of a tumble that would cost the coach his job.  

http://hopefamily61.blogspot.com/2011/12/perfect-weekend-not.html

This year they had 47 points at half-time.  Looking much better!

We had great seats.  7 rows up below the basket.  Here is a panorama with my iphone

Uncle Cuda was along for the ride and we had a great time

In the end, the Illini won 81-79.  It wasn't as close as it seems because they scored on a buzzer beater 3-point shot to make it close.  It's definitely more fun when they win.  They are now 13-1 and ranked 12 in the country.  But they are facing a powerful Big Ten this year.  Still I bet they make the tourney (and beat NW at least once).  This is a fun picture with a fisheye lens that I got for my iphone for Xmas.  You will be seeing it again in the future (I'm sure)

Merry Christmas

This year we enjoyed Christmas Eve with Diane's side of the family.

Diane loved the leather jacket her mother got her for Christmas.

Zeus was mostly confused and hid under the table.

Christmas morning with the family.  Always a fun event.

Alex was happy with his PS3 game.

Diane loved her Bloodstone earrings from the Northwest.

Bart was pleased to get a new monitor for his computer.

I was happy to get some new toys.

Grandma and Grandpa came over for Christmas Dinner.

Now Grandpa get to see big bucks every day.

SUPERBOWL CHAMPION 2012

YEAH Me!  I am pleased.

First Snow of the Season

Chicago smashed the record for longest duration between snowfalls.  290 days without measurable snowfall.

It was nice and warm inside.  Diane's green thumb has these Orchids blooming in our windowbox.

Happy Holidays

Trans Siberian Orchestra

For our holiday outing in 2012 we went to the Christmas Concert by the Trans Siberian Orchestra at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont.  It was the boys first rock concert.  They has a great time

Here is a taste of the show. The end of the last encore.