I’m currently occupying a comfy stuffed chair in Columbus International Airport in Columbus, OH. Due to the inclement weather and this weekend’s air travel security incident, I gave myself an extra hour of drive time and a full two hours to clear security. It turns out I needed neither. The interstate was clear and it took me under 5 minutes to clear security. Awesome.
I had a really pleasant visit with the family here in Ohio. In fact, I think it was the most relaxing, fun week I’ve had in a very long time – and I’m surprised. Usually, visits to Ohio have been marked with family strife and hours of enduring attempted conservative re-indoctrination. I’m not sure what’s changed, but there was pleasantly little of both on this trip.
Funny, the only time I really felt uncomfortable and irritated was Christmas day, during my visit with Dad and his side of the family. I met, for the first time, my Grandfather on Dad’s side – they call him “Duke”. I wasn’t expecting much – after all, he’s the guy who abandoned my grandma and his 4 sons to the welfare system – but I’d hoped he’d be at least a decent guy. Well, the only thing of consequence that I learned is that he’s a racist. That was disappointing, and irritating.
The bracelets that Marci custom crafted were a pretty big hit as Christmas gifts. I’m wearing mine now, and I really, really like it. The guy’s are nice and heavy (1/4″ steel rings!), and the girl’s, while durable steel, are small and delicate enough that they almost look like woven silver. I love them, and intend to have some more crafted for myself.
Well, I need to hit the head before I get in line for my flight, so I’ll return you to your regularly scheduled programming! Happy New Year!
Ryan Phillipe as Santa
WOOT!
