Maher's Enjoy Daily Commute, Time Together

Commuting to work for two hours each day doesn't bother the Maher's one bit.

Afterall, that's ten extra hours together each week, and this Hawarden couple loves it.

Ryan and Colleen Maher commute to Qwest in Sergeant Bluff Monday through Friday, work and eight hour shift together, spend lunch breaks together and even run after work errands as a team.

Married for a year and a half, Ryan and Colleen are in love with their new home and life in Hawarden, their ability to work for the same company and well, each other.

Although Ryan spent most of his life growing up in Hawarden, it was Colleen that suggested they relocate to Hawarden to start their married life together.

"I love Hawarden. I love the people. I love the shops and the friendliness. That's where I wanted to live," Colleen, a native of Merrill, IA., explained.

For Ryan, the homecoming was an easy transition. His mother, Connie Maher still lives in the area, and his bride's mother, Carol Dew, is a resident at Hillcrest Health Care Services.

"I love my home. There's no way we would ever get a home like that in Sioux City," Colleen commented. "Hawarden is home. This (Sergeant Bluff) is where we work."

The Mahers started working at Qwest in mid-April. They are both completing a 13-week training session before they begin working in Sales and Service. The couple chose Qwest for their advancement opportunities, the benefits package, the friendly environment and co-workers. And, the opportunity to work together.

"They don't make you feel lost," Colleen noted. "I really like to get up and go to work. I haven't been able to do that for a very long time."

Ryan quickly added, "It's like you're all kind of equal."

So, what's the best part of working for the same company and spending two hours a day in the car?

"You get to be together," Ryan commented.

Colleen agreed and quickly added, "The communication. Since we've been married there's never been a lack of communication, which is wonderful. And maybe that's (the commute) a part of it. I never get annoyed or irritated or anything."

And, with that good communication, the couple has developed a routine for their travels.