It's all about her

Shanna completed her first marathon this morning, the Texas Half, in 2 hours and 17 minutes. I am happy for her, just as long as she doesn't become a marathon junkie. That, and if she has a 30 second head start I can't catch her.

Her time at Invensys is over, starting January 31st she will be working for Eaton. Invensys was good for her, it has been a bittersweet change. May her time at Eaton work out as well.

Candlelight

Last night, just as I was dropping shrimp into the skillet, the electricity disappeared. The gas range kept on working as Shanna darted around to retrieve flashlights and candles. And then it was the dinner by candlelight, the kids thought it was special. The intimate light usage continued as we cleaned up, read books, changed into PJs, and brushed teeth. The fireplace was already radiating heat when the lights dropped, and we kept it going 'till the power returned - after three hours. Turns out a snowplow took out a pole, just the thing for 6,200 people on a cold, snowy evening.

And what else of the kids? The Christmas rush has been replaced by the normal tempo of life. Food is eaten, brothers tormented, clothes soiled, and smiles made. Just this morning Galen has been drawing for hours, hands stained by ink. Liam has been gazing upon books, and Boris is stretched out next to the fireplace in the morning sun. All in all an very satisfying Saturday morning.

Another year bites the dust

The 2010 holiday seasons was a wonderful, torturous, and pleasant ending to 2010. First and foremost I need offer my condolences to Hamline University School of Law: they will be receiving no more tuition payments from the O'Brien's, Shanna has finished school. It has taken her several years to complete law school part-time. There was having Liam, traveling for work, and moving to Minnesota. I am proud of her persistence. Now she's studying to take the Minnesota Bar Exam. There's a glutton for punishment...

The kids thoroughly enjoyed the holidays. With cookies, presents, and family visitors, why not? Family is especially welcomed over Christmas time and this was no exception. Shanna's mom, Elayne, visited between Christmas & New Year's and she brought along her grandson (Shanna's nephew) Zion. We took Zion sledding for his first ever, the smile after his first run was radiant. There was good eats, good conversation, and good sledding. Life is good.

2011 has started. We have plans, wonder what will get accomplished? We foresee home improvements and a vacation along with the usual happenings. But at the moment I'll start small and worry about tonight's dinner...