one good effort

I can truly say that I made one good effort at some new layouts this evening. Typically, I can accomplish one or two while the kids head off to the evening Tae Kwon Do classes, but I broke a record with four this evening.

These reflections take us back to New Year's eve... ...where the kids rang it in for themselves (Chicago time), but it was only 8:00pm on our Oahu watch. Good thing they chose that route, because they were both knocked out cold when Waikiki's shores lit up with fireworks on all sides.

Earlier in the day we made a visit to the U.S.S. Arizona where the kids stood in disbelief at the names etched into the wall of the fallen men that lay entombed just underneath our feet. I'll never know the true effect it had on them, but I can only imagine due to their examining eyes and soft demeanor.

Without explanation, our time was always well spent near the shore, but it never lasted quite long enough as we all wish we were there enjoying it's salty breezes now.

We shared the passion that we might just cross paths with (then president-elect) Obama. The size of Oahu was on our side, right? We were bound to run into him at some point, Chato just knew it. Unfortunately, the best we could do was this crazy cardboard stand-up version. Dream realized? Well, no, of course not. But alot of folks couldn't understand what the big deal was - we live in Chicago - as does he when at home in his permenant residence - and probably drove past or crossed his path many a time without the notice. I'm sure one day will we get the opportunity; I pray...

...oh yeah, we ARE headed to DC in April..duh!

Looking forward to a quiet Valentine's celebration here. Some Chicago snow is in the forecast. Hmmm what more cozy and comfort can a day bring?