The last trip

My last trip being pregnant was this past weekend.  I didn’t think I’d necessary be glad it would be the last trip, but after sitting in a car for 6 1/2 hours yesterday, I think the decision was taken out of my hands.  My back spoke very loudly. 

We had a wonderful time at my sister and bil’s for Thanksgiving.  Time spent with family doing a varied smattering of things from playing video games, playing cards, talking, walking, and eating, eating, eating.  I don’t recall the last time that I saw my dad laugh so hard he fell out on the floor, excused himself to compose himself, and then wipe his eyes continually even after he returned to the table to continue card play.  Mind you, this was at my expense but it was still great to see such abandon. 

Our trip up there was fairly uneventful.  It would be our return home that would be the challenge.  When we visited in September, our tire was low on air pressure as we attempted to leave.  This time, the car didn’t start.  The battery died as a result of it being 2 years old and the temperature going lower than what the car is used to.  Frustrated, I let Joel handle it with AAA and my bil.  I didn’t mind staying longer, but I did want a leasurely drive home and a longer evening so I wouldn’t be so exhausted when I did finally return home.  After meeting with AAA and getting a jump, Joel and David headed off to Walmart to get a battery.  Walmart was a bust as they don’t carry Hyundai batteries.  A few phone calls later and a short drive to the Advance Auto Parts store, a new battery was had, installed, and the guys were headed back home.  Now a new battery doesn’t seem like a big deal, but when you are in the middle of Appelacheia *(sp?) on a Sunday morning, on a holiday weekend; your chances of finding a place open, getting a tow truck quickly, etc. become very slim.  $80 dollars and 4 hours later we headed out for home. 

An unmarked detour in Chattanooga due to a fatal accident on the interstate made for an interesting unplanned tour of downtown but Joel did great in navigating and following signs.  An added 20 minutes to the total length of the trip and a little added stress wasn’t too bad after finding out the interstate had been closed until 6:00 Pm as a result of said accident. 

The girls were not sure of what to make of our return home.  Flala slept readily with me last night and Lily still remains to give us the cold shoulder.  Wanting attention but fleeing as soon as you try to scoop her up.  I’m hoping tonight will be different as we get back into the swing of things.

Six weeks to go until Ruthie will be here and there are still a great many things to be done.  I’ve got my bags to pack for the hospital, the room to finish, items yet to purchase, meals to cook ahead and freeze, and storage items to be put away.  Christmas falls in the middle and will be somewhat quieter this year.  I’ll still bake a little and Joel’s mom and sister will most likely come up for the day.  I’ve got pediatrician interviews scheduled, pre-registration at the hospital to do, and a host of Christmas parties to attend.  I’m starting to create the list today so I can start crossing things off. 

Work is picking back up so I must skedatal for now.  I trust everyone had a nice Thanksgiving and is finding a new week refreshing as we get back to “normal.”