Monday, November 28, 2011

Monday after Thanksgiving thoughts on a cloudy day


It was a great Thanksgiving holiday visiting with family and friends both in the Shenandoah Valley and in Midlothian ... busy and hectic and fun.

Heavy traffic was encountered Sunday afternoon at 12:30 as I-64 West became a parking lot a full two miles before intersecting with I-81 in Staunton. I-81 was backed up north and south ... and it wasn't even the heaviest traffic of the day. Thankfully, we were home at that point and gratefully hopped of the interstate to hit the back roads to our home in western Augusta County.

Commonwealth Cup: What a game on Saturday afternoon! The University of Virginia hosted Virginia Tech for the rivalry of the season and from feedback from locals, the interstates were backed up with spectators trying to get to Scott Stadium. The final VaTech 38, UVa 0 score was not quite what was expected. I watched with my Virginia Tech Class of 1947 step-dad. Congrats to Tech with a thank you for UVa for the hospitality.

Thanksgiving and family: With my Texas sister in town, we were all over the place for 10 days as we enjoyed the sights and sounds of the Shenandoah Valley and central Virginia. A tour of downtown Richmond on Friday rounded it all out before the Texas crew flew out on Saturday heading back home. For Thanksgiving, we cooked, baked, decorated, and generally enjoyed time together.

Decorating for Christmas East: While sister Gail decorated Mom's front door, sister Lori and I, with help from SWAC Husband and Mom, decorated indoors and put up the Christmas tree on Saturday afternoon. Mom's house is looking a lot like Christmas....

Decorating for Christmas West: We're in the midst of working on our decorations at home. The tree is up and lights are on as we work on adding ornaments. A little more to do and all that will be left is adding greenery and candles for this favored time of the year.

Dayton Farmers Market: Located in the midst of the Old Order Mennonite community. Now operating on holiday hours, the Dayton Farmers Market is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 am-6 pm through December 31. Great gift ideas when looking for something that isn't from a big box store ... and don't forget to try a big, soft pretzel while you're there.

Green Valley Book Fair: Open for the last time in 2011 and located just south of Harrisonburg, the doors opened last Friday and will be open daily through Saturday, December 17th from 9 am - 7 pm. Thousands of new and discontinued books at huge discounts up to 90% off retail. Green Valley Book Fair, 2192 Green Valley Ln, Mt. Crawford, VA 22841. Phone 800-385-0099.
 
Historic Downtown Staunton:  Unique shops and eateries are available in historic downtown Staunton, now decorated with twinkly white lights and Christmas decorations to add a magical touch as you search for that special something for that special someone.

Staunton Christmas Parade: Tonight, November 26, 2011, at 7:00 pm. Join thousands who line the streets to see local entries including floats, high school bands, Christmas entries, and all followed up with Santa Claus himself at the end of the parade.

There's lots to do in the central Shenandoah Valley especially at Christmas. Come join in the fun and festivities!

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