Sayonara Poconos/Memorial Day

We woke up on Monday morning, had some breakfast, packed up the car, and hit the road by 9:30 a.m. We were ready to get home and have a few hours remaining of our holiday (Memorial Day) to get settled and unwind before jumping back into work and our normal routine on Tuesday.

But before we left, of course we had to take our annual group photo:

After a really-not-so-bad drive, we arrived home around 1:30 p.m., unpacked everything, and decided to have an early dinner. Of course, we didn't have anything in the house and didn't feel like going grocery shopping, so we treated ourselves to burgers at a local chain restaurant.

We were all hungry! I couldn't say I've ever had dinner out at a restaurant with General Hospital on in the background before... but now I can. :)

It was a nice day out--but HOT at 93 degrees--so once we were home, we spent some time letting Nora expend some energy in the backyard.

This is Nora, in the middle of telling me "NO!" (I don't even remember what it was about. Toddlerhood: 'Tis fun.)

Good thing she's so gosh darn sweet the rest of the time! :)

A lovely Memorial Day and long weekend, indeed.

Of course, the reason for the day off did not go unrecognized by me. Thank you to all of the men and women who have given their lives for this country. And thanks to all of their family members, who made the ultimate sacrifice and continue to live without the ones they love.

And to all of the men and women currently serving--including my very own brother--please, come home safely. <3