First quarter of high school is done - straight A's for Fede! He has had some interesting discusions in Physics (teacher is sceptical of global warming and "man's" involvement in said theory.) We have also talked about Creationism and home schooling. Having someone to ponder these topics with and discuss all kinds of theories with regularly is really invigorating for me. One of the real upsides of having an exchange student, and one of the main reasons I would recommend putting yourself out in this way. Some other upside of the program for the host family includes a slightly more pulled together home life for everyone! The piles are attended more quickly, dinners less slip-shod, and very little grumpy-mom showing up for everyone. In addition, I have actually installed the Spanish Rosetta Stone, and have done some of the lessons, a task I have been meaning to do for years. Last Thursday we attended the Rotary Annual Auction, something totally new for him, including (modeled) Rotary boxer shorts being sold! Along with a hog, and a combine ride - ya gotta love Iowa. Yesterday Fede carved a pumpkin with other Rotary students, and today he is hearing and seeing more wind than he has in his whole life. Rugby has stopped practicing for the winter, but he has been invited to play ultimate frisbee after school on Wednesdays. He has to find another activity (says me) so on Monday he will talk to the Beak 'n' Eye teacher about the school newspaper. Meanwhile his camera is in constant use.