It was February, 2000. We had made it to the next century (by some peoples' reconing), and without even a hickcup of world cataclysm. We joined our neighbors to watch the world celebrate the non-event. Once the holidays were over, we began gearing up for the next round. Carnival in Tenerife is known to be second next to Rio. We were told the difference is people in Tenerife are more clothed! It occured late this year, during the first two weeks in March. There was evidence already in stores that preparation of costuming was going to be lavish. That year's logo was a high-heeled, dancing sardine garbed in a hula-like banana peel skirt! We heard that boys dress like girls, men like women,and anything goes!

Ben and I made a New Year's Resolution to spend each Friday exploring some aspect of the island. Our varied ventures included:

• a drive through The Anagada mountains
• a visit to the Pyrimads of Guimar
• the Thor Heyerdahl (remember "Kon-Tiki" ?) museum.
• harbor sleuthing at San Marcos
• a day in my favorite town, Oratava (solo)
• a private tour of the international astronomical compound near Mt. Teide
• a family evening at the Castilla de San Miguel in celebration of Thomas's 9th birthday.

By February, Kristen and Thomas had also finished their first term and received excellent reports of their school activities. On a typical Saturday, Kristen is off with a friend in her favorite town of Puerto de la Cruz, Thomas is at yet another birthday party. Birthday parties here involve whole families!

Thomas had extended his Tennis day at school by joining his teacher at "The Club" for another 1.5 hours twice a week. He loves the challenge and of course is one of the best players! At some point they'll compete with other clubs. Meantime he's learning more Spanish and German and the other kids, English as the teacher talks with each of them in their native language!

Ben had slowed his routine of "going to the office" to work on projects at the Internet cafe. He programmed a way for Gretchen to organize our photo albums. You can look at the output from our holiday photos in this month's photo section. He also joined the program of learning what we can while in Tenerife and was tutored in Spanish by our neighbors, Carlo and Susie.

Gretchen's routine consisted of Spanish, violin, needlepoint and hanging out clean laundry. She also volunteered to work at Trinity School with kids who need extra help with reading or other assignments. She did this one or two days a week, depending on how great her need was to "extend beyond herself and be part of a larger community".

We also went-all-out and bought a TV/VCR that plays both European and USA versions of videotapes. Inspired by the collection of tapes at the English Library, we found a machine that will fit well on the boat.