It's beginning to smell a lot like Christmas

We put the Christmas tree up this weekend.  Jules wanted a really big one so he and Tess headed off to on a search around Sydney until they found a 2 metre one that they were both happy with.  Before decorating Tess took me aside and warned me that Tom would get very upset if I tried to colour co-ordinate it too much.  I gave them completely free rein (I may have hidden 1 or 2 ornaments beforehand) and they did a fantastic job.  

On Sunday afternoon Tess went to a Queenwood gathering for the local girls who will be going to the school next year.  It was a lovely afternoon with the girls getting to know each other better and an amazing spread of food.  

On Monday the school held it's final Recognition Assembly for the year and the kids were both very embarrassed when I got announced as winning an award.  It was the Outstanding Volunteer Contribution Award and it was presented to me by Tony Abbot, former Prime Minister of Australia - very grand!  It was Tess' last assembly as school leader.  She has really enjoyed being a leader - she's loved all the meetings and bossing people around (sounds like someone I know) and it has really increased her confidence in public settings.  We're very proud of her.  

Receiving my award

Me and Tony

  Tess (the tall one standing) presenting awards

Tess introducing awards