Pre-Thanksgiving Festivities

Benjamin came to the District to spend some time with Julia after her GRE exam and before Thanksgiving. They visited the Newseum (closing its doors December 31!), took care of Leela, got out the holiday decorations, worked on the puzzle, and spent time with Meme!

Turkey Try and Liver Jerky

As soon as I saw Trader Joe's advertising that their fresh turkeys were coming November 15--I knew what we would be having for dinner that night! I got a nearly 12-pound bird. It was delicious, but not quite as good as from Wagshal's local turkey farmer. For our Thanksgiving dinner, we will be getting an all-natural, heritage turkey from Wagshal's in the range of 14-16 lbs. Will it be enough??? I made beef liver jerky--so good! I went to the Dupont Farmer's Market and restocked from Smith Meadows Farms--this time lamb liver, chicken backs, beef short ribs, steak, pork sausage. Julia has been studying for the GRE exam and took care of Leela for a couple of days. Steven is almost done with his dissertation--super happy and excited that he has been able to work on this despite his migraines.

Texas A&M and Birthday Celebration

Julia and Caitlyn flew to Houston, Texas, and then drove to Texas A&M to see Maddie. They spent one day in Austin and ate at the famous Terry Black's BBQ. The brisket looked amazing!

On the homefront, we celebrated Kathryn's 15th birthday (a few days prior to her actual bday on the 13th). It was nice to see Meme again, back from safari, and Maureen, the Westfalls, the Breen kids, and we met Whitley. The grilled pork chops were delicious!

Philly and Annandale and...

Julia went to Philly for two nights and attended a concert with Jessie. Then she bussed it back to Annandale to watch Kathryn while Lisa and Tony were in San Diego. From there she headed to Texas A&M to see Maddie and Caitlyn. The girl gets around for sure.

Management Concepts sent Georgetown Cupcakes to Steven as a get well, we're thinking of you.