My "weekends" in Roanoke are always a blur, because they aren't really weekends; they're just Friday nights. 

Rob and I drove through the rain on Friday afternoon and got to my parents' house around 3:00. It was freezing and rainy the whole time. My mom had tea at the ready. I forgot that I hadn't seen their house all decorated yet and it was such a pleasant surprise. Let me tell you, my parents' house at Christmas is a special kind of wonderful.

We went downtown for dinner and to walk around Dickens of a Christmas, which is sort of a tradition.

Friends, family, food, dogs dressed up in funny clothing, and lots holiday fun. 

What else do you need around Christmas?

PS Giveaway tomorrow!

I don't know if you know this, but my last day off was October 29th. Seriously. All I can say is that I am so very tired. 

So I'm sure you'll believe me when I say that I have not only been looking forward to these next few days, but that I really need them. After work today at noon, I'm going to Roanoke until Friday. I'm not bringing my computer. I'm just bringing Rob, some laundry, and a few books.

I can't wait to get to the lake.

I am thankful to be working so much, but I'm also thankful for the chance to slow down, spend a few days with my family, and take the time to remember what's really important in life.

Like breathing. 

Wishing you and yours a very wonderful week of Thanksgiving.

When I leave on Friday and don't show up again until Wednesday, it's because I'm having a really good time doing whatever I'm doing. Usually whatever I'm doing is drinking wine, hanging out with my dog, cooking with my mom, eating with friends, laughing, sitting on my parents' dock, watching movies with my dad, and did I say drinking wine already?

First stop: my brother's apartment at Longwood. He has a guitar-shaped spoon holder in his kitchen. So very Sean.

The second stop was Hampden-Sydney for Homecoming festivities.

Then we all ventured to Roanoke for the rest of the long weekend. Fall Break and Smith Mountain Lake, I love you both.

There's my mom, working on dinner for eleven people. 

It was my sweet dad's birthday on Sunday. And Shawna's was on Friday. They both got to blow out the candles.

"The happiest moments of my life have been the few which I have passed at home in the bosom of my family." 

--Thomas Jefferson