Life: It Goes On - November 30

What a wonderful, long weekend! We had lovely Thanksgiving celebrations with both sides of our families. I even managed to not over eat either day - well, not to the point where I had to take a nap, anyway!

We're fundamentally opposed to shopping on Thanksgiving Day (and also, kind of over the whole idea of fighting the rush and standing in long lines), we waited to do our Black Friday shopping until Friday. But it just wouldn't be the same if we didn't get up early to go, so six of the ladies on my side of the family headed out about 7 a.m. to go grab up some bargains after a quick coffee stop. It's as much about being together as it is about the shopping and I wouldn't miss it for the world.

Yesterday temps here reached into the 70's and by the end of the day I think every man on the block had been out putting up Christmas lights, including The Big Guy. The city had kicked off the holiday season Thursday night so we went off to a couple of areas in town to see the lights, enjoy some seasonal music, and view some Christmas window displays and what a beautiful night to do it!

This Week I'm:

Listening To: I'll be pulling out the Christmas music shortly to listen to while I start the decorating today but will stick to some lesser played pieces. I'm sure I'll get all of the "Jingle Bells" and "Silent Night" I need before we get to Christmas so I can't quite start those yet.

Watching: Today's press conference by the University of Nebraska Athletic Director announcing the firing of our football coach. It's been a roller coaster ride with Bo Pelini these past five years. I think he's essentially a really good person and the players love him but our expectations in this state are higher than what he can deliver.

Reading: I'm planning to finish The Secret History, Sea of Poppies, and From The Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler this week. Since I've already read this month's book club selection, I'm not sure what I'll pick up next. I'll have to see what's left to read for my challenges.

Making: Some chicken dishes - a version of stroganoff and a pot pie using a stuffing crust instead of pie crust (both new creations we'll do again), guacamole, and cinnamon rolls.

Planning: On putting the finishing touches on the guest room this week, finishing up the Christmas decorating, and continuing the work on "my" room. A few pieces left to be brought in and a fair amount of organizing to do and then I can begin really using it. Can't wait!

Grateful for: Family, family, and family!

Enjoying: The long weekend with time for celebrating and lots of productive work around the house. Wish we could have a four-day weekend every month.

Feeling: Still unmotivated to put up my holiday decorations. Even though I'm doing it.

Looking forward to: It's too early to say summer, isn't it? Gotta find a way to make myself look at the good as we head into the long months of winter. Ideas?

What are you looking forward to this week?