My new Yucca plant, which stands over four foot tall. It looks tough enough so that even I can't kill it. The directions that came with the plant include the following: For decoration purposes only, not fit for consumption.

I ended up going back to see friends and family in Montreal over Christmas, and here are some pictures. I had a great week, despite the wind and the cold. It was nice to see all of you. A happy and meaningful 2006 to everyone out there!

The ride back from the airport. It's quite a propos that I'm out of focus after a 16 hour day of travel, approximately four hours of which involved a toddler shrieking. My brother Chris looks on as my father pulls a hard right turn.

Christmas day: the Julebok, the Christmas tree along with Springsteen unplugged, my mother, Christmas dinner

-Mattie Menear, picking me up (so to speak) for lunch

-A bunch of old friends gathered at Matt's parents' place after Christmas. The ostensible reason: to watch the World Junior Hockey Championships, subsequently won by Canada.

-A group picture including Amy and Rich.

-Mark and Erika with a lamp between them

-Mike relaxing with Ellie after a long day at work

-Myself with Lawrence and Mark

-Grame and Cathy looking at dubious internet content

A convincing victory of Team Canada over Norway, with a fight in the final seconds.

Mike helping clean off the Oldsmobile; scenes of winter

Me and my friend Salim, with whom I spent a few great hours on New Year's Eve.

Mostly from my last evening in town: Chris' apartment, Bono in digital and bringing back Indian food