Seven and a half months after moving across the country, Derek and I finally returned to Virginia to celebrate an early Thanksgiving with family, as well as attend an engagement party that my mom threw for us. I think the party was a huge success and all her hard work paid off. We dined on a delicious brunch with an egg dish, baked french toast, bagels, pastries, fruit, homemade nut breads and mimosas. My grandparents and my brother came, and Derek’s Virginia family members were able to make it too. I’m glad that everyone got a chance to meet since the next time we all get together may actually be the wedding next fall!
Mom and Dad
Derek and his mom
Grandpa and Derek's Uncle Ed
Mingling...
We represent America with our sweaters!
Justin, Marie and Peyton
Justin and Derek's mom, Karen
On Thursday, Derek and I went with my parents to possible wedding locations in the mountains of Virginia. After a long day of driving and touring, we decided to continue our National Park theme and have our wedding in Shenandoah National Park. It is a giant relief to have made some wedding decisions!
The view!
Over the weekend I stuffed myself at two Thanksgiving dinners, one with Derek’s family and one with mine. Despite being 3 weeks early, the food was yummy and the company was special… I’m not looking forward to working on Thanksgiving and Christmas this year : (
Family : )
Me and Derek
Family : )
I also tried on my mom’s wedding gown! It had been cleaned and professionally preserved after her 1974 wedding, and the most special thing about it is how it was handmade by my grandmother. I haven’t decided to wear it yet, but if I do, I will get it altered to be a more modern style. We both were surprised by how perfectly it fit.
It fits!
We climbed at SportRock on our last night in town, which was great to see old friends and climb in a familiar place. Jonathan even brought a cake to congratulate us on our engagement, even though it was HIS birthday!
Right now I am sitting in the Sea-Tac Airport waiting for Derek’s flight to arrive. We are being picked up by our doggie-sitters Aaron and Tess, who had sent us photos during the week of Colby and their dog Sagan – who are best friends! I am ready to see Colby, that’s for sure, but I will certainly miss family and friends left at home. It was great to see everyone, and thanks for making an effort to see us.
Colby has a new hat!
Best Friends <3
You and Derek need to prepare yourself – Colby is most likely going to suffer from Sagan withdrawal. It looks like Colby may have had the best vacation of the 3 of you!!