First Snow

December 27, 2010 — The first snowstorm of the season, reaching blizzard proportions in many areas, came roaring up the East Coast over the past 48 hours. Highways became impassable and air traffic was almost at a standstill, stranding thousands of holiday travelers. The snow started falling in my New Hampshire community about 4 p.m. yesterday and accumulated to about 10 inches overnight, far from the two feet that buried some areas to the south. I shoveled out late this morning while a light snow was still falling, but it stopped shortly after and the sun came out, but the temperature was falling rapidly.

As I write this, it's 14 degrees with dangerously high winds. The wind is causing me some concern, because a power outage at these temperatures, if prolonged, could have serious consequences. Last February, winds took out power for 68 hours, but fortunately temperatures were above normal at that time. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

Christmas Round 2

December 25, 2010 — Well, I thought Christmas was over for me after last weekend, but I got an invitation to share Christmas Eve with Sheila and family, a Christmas buffet on Christmas morning at Kathy's, and Christmas dinner with Steve and family. I accepted all three invitations, even though they were spread out over 100 miles. Fortunately, the weather was good throughout the holiday weekend.

I think I've finally had enough Christmas, although every minute of it was immensely enjoyable. You can see photos and videos of my second round of Christmas activities at this link:

http://www.linwoodstreet.com/christmas10part2/

Early Christmas

December 12, 2010 — Pam and Roger returned north for the first time since they moved to North Carolina last May. The extended family joined them at Sheila's house in Massachusetts for an early Christmas celebration. We exchanged gifts and enjoyed each other's company, and I stayed overnight. The next day, December 13, Pam left to spend a couple of days with old friends. Roger and I spent some time in the morning at a coffee shop with Wi-Fi satisfying our internet addiction. We went to a movie in the afternoon. I stayed over one more night. The next day, December 14, Pam returned and I left for home. It was great to spend time with them again. They insist I come down to North Carolina to visit them in the spring. I'm giving it serious consideration.

A few photos and a video of our Christmas observance can be seen at this link:

http://www.linwoodstreet.com/christmas10/