Vacation Recap

My, oh my, I've gotten behind again haven't I...
I was indeed gone for a few days, but it's been a week without posts since I got back. Droughts and downpours, I suppose. So here is what happened over Dad's birthday. A summary, if you will.

I had a really wonderful trip. Early Thursday the 12th I flew from this coast to the other and was happily met after a long travel day by some of my lovely family in DC. We--my folks, brother, sister Anna, nieces Jane and Jenna, and I--enjoyed some late sushi and catch up conversation before heading to my sister Stacia's home. Much of our weekend was spent in that great family tradition, lazing around the house chatting and eating, simply hanging about.

Friday afternoon the bunch of us, minus brothers-in-law and Jane who was at a conference, visited some amazing artist studios at the Workhouse Arts Center. The Workhouse site was formerly a reformatory and workhouse (hence the name). After a late lunch in a cute, nearby historical town (you'll have to help me out here, sisters, I forget) it was back to Stacia's for preparation of Dad's big birthday dinner. The sisters made a beautiful dinner for the whole clan, and dinner came with a side of Roast of Father....the laughing, story retelling kind. Dad's a good sport. :) The night capped with a small living room dance party...we're a silly lot.

Saturday was a laid back day for most of us...again Jane got stuck with a conference and also a soccer game. We showed up as a large, intimidating? family cheering section. :) Later that night we went out for a couple games of bowling. We were able to make two big teams and work up some friendly competition. The alley played dance hits. We danced some too. It just happens.

On Sunday we gathered at a park and had family portraits taken, a special occasion to have everyone together at once. We look pretty cute. Unfortunately I don't think I can post any here to better illustrate, but most of you who might read this will know. :) I was able to book a later flight and stay until Monday morning, allowing me one more night with everyone. I would have stayed longer. I miss all you guys.

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It was a really fantastic weekend. Thanks, Pop, for turning 60, if just for all of us to have had reason to get together. I wish there didn't need to be special reasons. I wish we could all just drop by for dinners and conversations in the kitchen, for sporting events and family nights. Alas, here I am 2000 miles away, sending love from afar. :)