Respite

Jeff, Elvira and I are on the first day of a much-needed vacation. I was trying to think of a word to describe exactly what this is that we needed: respite.

res·pite

a delay or cessation for a time, esp. of anything distressing or trying; an interval of relief

Over the past few months, our life has become increasingly busy, stressful and busy. (Did I mention busy?) There isn't a day that goes by that we don't have something to do, or somewhere to be. Even though most everything we do is positive in nature, it can become very tiring. So, when Jeff's spring break came around and my parents condo in the Smoky's was open, we hit the streets and got out of town for a few days.

As of yet we have no plans for the week. I can't think of the last time we woke up and didn't have a clue what the day had in store. Even the days that started out with a clean slate didn't end up that way - something always comes up. We're enjoying doing absolutely nothing. Jeff is winding down quite well, and it makes me happy to see him relax. I think it's taking me longer to unwind - but I'm trying :)

Today we decided to get in the car and just see where it took us. We ate lunch at a restaurant called the "Sagebrush." It's sort of like a Texas Roadhouse. Jeff ejoyed a giant serving of banana pudding for dessert. After that, we headed into the small town of Valle Crucis, which is home to the original "Mast General Store" and a wonderful store called the "Candy Barrel." The "Mast General Store" is your typical small town, original general store. The "Candy Barrel" however, is what I think heaven will be like ;) It's a room full of old-fashioned candy, the stuff I remember from when I was a kid.

We filled up a bag - everything from candy cigarettes, Cow Tales, and Cry Babies to Pop Rocks.

And we, of course, had a sampling of our purchases in the car! Don't worry...there is plenty left for Zeke and Yana.