November Blows Through

 And just like that, it is December.

Three of our daughters spent the Thanksgiving holiday with us. It was a busy, productive, joy filled week. Everyone pitched in to help prepare the Thanksgiving meal. Over two days' time, everyone also helped consume it. 

This ten year old was very excited about the dinner. I think he likes to cook as much as I do. He especially loves Sweet Potato Mallow. It is rewarding to see people enjoy a meal I have prepared for them.  

A vignette from the Woodrow Wilson home.

The day after Thanksgiving, we took two cars and drove up to Staunton to see the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum. We toured the 1850's birth home of Wilson. The museum housed Wilson's beloved Pierce Arrow. I found that vehicle to be impressive, indeed. If a machine can be beautiful, this was it. Afterwards, we had lunch at a busy Chik Fil-A. Then Steve and I did a little antiquing after which we drove back roads home. It was lovely day for a scenic drive.

We drove through four counties to get home; Augusta, Rockbridge, Alleghany, and Botetourt. They were all beautiful.

 On Saturday, Claire and I ran some errands at Country Corners Nursery, Harrison Hall of Antiques, and Heritage Family Market. The stores were busy but not overly crowded. It was festive to be out among Christmas shoppers. I bought four winter themed place mats and a few odds and ends at the Heritage Market. Daughter bought a vintage measuring cup. I had a chance to visit with old friends from New York who also happen to be our daughter's in-laws. They now live in Kentucky but come to Botetourt to visit two of their children who have settled here. It is always good to see old friends.

Audrey was very excited to begin Christmas preparations. She was the driving force behind the crafts and the walk to the tree farm on Sunday. Everyone caught her excitement and happily joined in. The kitchen and dining room smelled wonderfully of citrus and cloves from the orange pomanders they decorated. 

It was a cold day and we noticed snow flurries outside the window. We decided it was the perfect weather for a walk to the tree farm. Claire and her family needed to be off to make the drive home. After we said our good-byes, Audrey, Tess, Violet and I bundled up and walked up the hill and over to the Christmas tree farm. They were doing good business this day! We reveled in the snow that continuously fell as we searched for a tree. Rather than take the time to go home for the truck, the girls carried the tree home for us. Choosing the Christmas tree helped me shift gears from the Thanksgiving holiday into the Christmas season. Ready or not, it is coming!

Up the hill...

...up the road, then down the field to home.