Really right now I want to run into my living room, cuddle up on the couch and watch Dexter [which I had to TIVO], but instead I’m putting up this blog.  Why?  Because I’ve been home less than 24 hours and my mother is already asking for pictures to see. 

Going home [to PA] has a strange feeling to it for me.  I love getting to see my family and for my kids to spend quality time with them, but as the years go on my hometown [ironically actually named Hometown] seems more like a distant memory.  I’m not sure if that’s a good or bad thing, but I guess it’s just the natural progression of life.

So many of our friends have family relatively close by, but for us it’s more like 18 hours in the car [if we don't stop to pee].    So, when we visit or when they come here a Thanksgiving day is more like a Thanksgiving week for us.  I’m so bad about not pulling my camera out and getting those snapshots.  I know!  What’s wrong with me?!  I guess it’s just so nice to sit back and enjoy the moments that I forget to shoot them.  This visit I forced myself to do it…and I’m glad I did.  [although my dad and youngest brother seemed to escape most of the shots...shame on you both!]

Ben got a BMX trick bike for his 9th birthday just the week before so of course we had to take it with us.  AND before anyone gets all freaked out…yes that is my 2 year old on the trick bike…no he was barely moving and I was right there outside the frame. 

This shot of Sophie the cat is especially for my dad, who is having a difficult time with what the groomers did to ‘his cat’.  Sophie the Persian is now Sophie the lioness.  hahaha!  Don’t worry dad I’m sure it will grow back…eventually. 

My daughter…Jekyl & Hyde

My husband took this shot [hence the glass glare...okay I'll stop teasing him].  This is Betty.  She is 96?  This lady has known me since I was born…and still likes me! 

Hope your happy mother.  I’ll have part 2 up tomorrow…I’m going to watch some tivo before bed. 

xoxo