Biltonen Times 7

Wednesday-Friday December 3-5 2008

The Woodlands Texas

We spent an absolutely great time with my brother Eric, his wife Lien, and their kids Brooke and Sammy. We spent most of the time visiting, getting caught up, discussing various career decisions, and eating extraordinary home cooked Vietnamese food. Lien is amazing and she appears to cook effortlessly. The first night Lien fixed Debbie’s favorite—Pho. The second night—we had Thai green papaya salad with grilled chicken wings and ribs. The last night—another one of Debbie’s favorite is called Lo plus quail. Lo is a hot pot with broth, during the meal you cook all the vegetables and meats in it at the table, by the end of the meal the broth is so rich and delicious.

Mathew had a blast with his cousins Brooke (5 yrs.) & Sammy (2 ½ yrs.). After being strapped in the back and interacting primarily with adults, he deserved a good stretch of days to be with kids his own age. He had his first sleepover with Brooke. They demanded it, so we relented. And yes, imagine this, they slept, do wonders never cease? The Woodlands has great playgrounds within walking distance and Mathew got to play Star Wars along with Mommy & Daddy; Sammy was the puppy. Prior to arrival we thought about all the things we could do in Houston but after arrival it was clear – we needed to relax and let Mathew just play with his cousins. It was a fabulous decision, great company, great fun, relaxation and delicious food, who needed to spend time anywhere else.