T-Day and after

Another year, another Thanksgiving in Lacey.

Before trekking north on Wednesday - the car was in the shop, victim of an engine light. Nothing terribly serious - but somehow amazingly expensive. Catalytic converter had bit the bullet and needed replacement. Still driveable, though.

So north to Washington - a little traffic in town, but a fairly easy drive. Arrived before 8pm - and watched everyone else hit the sack at 9pm. I ended up watching TV and crashing the couch.

Thanksgiving Thursday morning brought the odyssey that is dinner prep. Alex was busy with the turkey, sweet potatoes, and everything else. I pretended to look after the boy - some coloring time here, a movie there. Kung Fu Panda was on the menu - along with the inevitable yummy side dishes and pumpkin pie.

After we stuffed ourselves and Greer had hit the hay, I jumped ship for the multi-plex - and a screening of "Twilight" - the film I worked on (as an extra) earlier this year. It was bearable...and I didn't make the final cut. Ah well, I have fond memories of Vernonia and Oregon City. Maybe when the DVD comes out?

Friday brought a little field trip. Around mid-day, Alex, Greer and I left the house and drove to the Nesqually Wildlife Refuge north of Lacey. It was sprinkling out, but endurable for the purpose of bird watching / nature hiking. About half-way through, Greer began to lay on the mustard....complaining about the hike, and "how we will never get back". A and I, prodded him along with the usual amount of baiting and encouragement. Greer would have none of it. He drug his feet, and wailed aloud - like it was the Bataan death march or some such nonsense.

Thankfully, all things must come to an end...

Back home, we retired for the evening - and broke open "The Golden Compass"....a mixed, but ultimately satisfying fantasy -- even if it threatens to put you to sleep.

Saturday was a surprise of sorts. I had spoken with my old college friend, Phil...and we agreed to meet up for coffee in Old Tacoma - near the Museum of Glass. A little morning respite from the womb-like existence in Lacey. Managed to survive a freeway cloverleaf nightmare - and was pleasantly surprised by the great art and architecture that abounded. Much like Olympia and Seattle, Tacoma has an understated northwest vibe....almost European in feel. The Museum of Glass was a definite return visit - and an open recommendation for anyone with an appreciation for glass art. It was great to see Mr. Phil...and I look forward to our next connection.

All in all....another enjoyable turkey day break. We'll be back in December for a post-Christmas stay.