There's No Place Like Home

I can't say it enough. I really love living in Virginia but there is no place like home. I grew up in Pennsylvania, about 40 minutes outside of Philadelphia, I lived there my whole life and moved to VA in November 2010. I've enjoyed beginning a new life with my fiance and creating a home of our own, but there will always be a void in my life from moving away from my family. It's a tough struggle, and I find it difficult to get home as much as I would like. I've gotten much better with making time to come home, lately it's been once a month (hey, I'll take it!). I work holidays so that I can give my staff time to be home with their families, and then I in return get a personal day to use to come home and visit my family. For now, it works. I've always said that when I have kids I'll never move far away that my parents won't be able to babysit and visit whenever they want. We have no plans on having kids anytime soon, not for another 3 years at least. So for now I'll enjoy coming home and visiting with those who I can't live without:o)

We decided to come home this weekend, my brother is home from college for a few days. It's the best feeling walking into a familiar space, closing your eyes and just listening...smelling...taking it all in. I love going to my Mom-Moms farmhouse in the country, seeing the ducks in her yard, the vast amount of land all around her, and smelling the delicious food that comes out of her kitchen. To say that she cooks comfort food is an understatement.

My Mom's house has the ambience of being a full house at all times. She has three kids and two dogs, when we come to visit we bring our dog, Nelly, so that makes a total of three dogs and three kids. CRAZY! But she loves it, and doesn't mind the chaos. It's nice that she greets me with a smile and a hug and says "HI!".

My Dad and his wife Meg live in Manayunk, about 15 minutes away from center city Philadelphia. Going to visit them is always fun because we are able to go and explore the wonderful city of brotherly love. They know all the hot spots and some awesome places to eat (so far our favorites are anything from an old diner to Steven Starr restaurants). Besides, a girl wants nothing more than a hug and a kiss from her Dad<3

Nick's parents don't live very far from where we grew up, and have an awesome group of neighbors. I think it's so neat to be able to jump over their deck and visit with friends we went to school with. His Mom always has a new craft started and she teaches me all the tricks of the trade! Plus, his Dad is an Eagles fan and backs me up with Nick's awful choice in professional football teams! Sorry Nick, but Dallas SUCKS! :o)

I'm watching the snow fall outside, it's about 2-3 inches total now. Hope you are all enjoying time with your families and friends this weekend! Take time to visit those you love and if you can't see them face to face there's always phone calls and FaceTime! (Thank you Steve Jobs!)