Every year my colleagues in the Development Department (yes, the same people who are already crazily busy raising money to keep the COC going) somehow find the time to participate in their departmental Christmas Decoration Contest which essentially means transforming the doors and walls of their offices into winter-wonderlands or whatever their fantasy fancies. I am on the jury, but when I was called down to our second floor this morning to have a look I couldn't resist taking this picture which I gladly share with you.

Looking back on a ghastly Sunday, when from my condo window in the King east neighbourhood the low clouds have taken my view of the city, everything from First Canadian Place to the new Ritz Carlton to the CN Tower, this probably was the calmest week I've had since my arrival in Toronto. No evening obligations whatsoever (a rare occasion for catching up with some gorgeous favourite music), except for yesterday's fabulous black tie Christmas dinner at one of the COC's most longstanding supporters' homes, much less formal than it sounds and the true highlight of the Holiday season with a wonderful group of intelligent and interesting people whose company is both an inspiration and a privilege, Christmas carol singing with professional help from COC chorus members included.

Also a bit more in the unusual category for this coming week will be my first ever speech in French, for the Club Canadien on Tuesday, at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel at noon. With a bit more fine-tuning tomorrow I should be ready. I think there are tickets on sale for this event. Just in case you want to check on my French. The title of the speech is: Divertissement et recherche sur la condition humaine - l'opéra au 21e siècle.

You know that I've heard Rufus Wainwright in concert before, but yesterday evening at Massey Hall was special, the encounter of a great artist with a great venue. Just Rufus singing and playing the piano. I've never heard him perform in better voice and with more intensity. There was a really special atmosphere in the hall and a lot of emotion. Bravo Rufus. So glad I could be there.