Nicolas' Birthday

Dear Family and Friends,

It's probably time to add a decription to pictures we posted a couple of weeks ago. Weeks of rain have finally subsided and revealed fields and fields of wild flowers. The red poppies for which France is known are our favorite. At this time of year, we enjoy driving the narrow, one-lane back roads that lead throug the countryside rather than going directly through town.



Last week, Joe attended his annual Project Management Conference in Milan, Italy. While he spent every minute possible attending various sessions in order to get his requisite number of education units, he did have a brief moment on the second day to go into downtown Milan. There are two main attractions in the center. The first is the Milan Duomo or cathedral, which is the third largest Christian church in the world. Though difficult to gauge from this picture (courtesy of some internet site because Joe's blackberry was out of batteries), the Duomo rises high above the surrounding buildings and is topped with many ornate gothic spires. Begun in 1386, the church took five centuries to complete. The inside has giant columns that extend about ten stories or more and is filled with artwork from the middleages and renaissance.



The other major tourist draw to downtown Milan is shopping. Milan is known as the fashion capital of the world and the covered shopping plaza next to the duomo is at the center of that trade. Joe browsed some of the shops, but quickly decided that most things were not in his price range. Fortunately, he was able to afford a very nice pizza at one of the sidewalk restaurants.



Following Joe's quick trip to Milan, we celebrated Nicolas' birthday. Nicolas helped Julie to 'construct' the perfect cake, which was a tribute to skyscrapers complete with buildings and a waterfront district.



On Saturday, Nicolas invited his American, UK, Indian and Italian friends from the International School to his birthday party. They all went into town to watch "How to Train a Dragon" in 3D before coming back to the house for cake and presents.



In addition to Legos and a watch from the family, Nicolas received a chess set, some more Legos, a slime laboratory, a shirt and a water gun from the friends who attended his party. All in all, he was pleased with this year's take.

Bon Courage!

Joe, Julie, Nicolas, Elyse, and Nathaniel