We had a very nice Thanksgiving with my brother and his family. The nephews were all with their womenfolk and their families, so we missed them, but had a great time anyway. My brother and his wife are just wonderful; we're the same kind of low-key wine-drinking, PBS watching geeks, and we always enjoy their company. This was our first holiday for my brother and me without our mom, and it made it better to be together. I had time for breakfast with two of my Minnesota friends on Friday and then we headed home. We did the 12-hour round trip to Minnesota and back in 48 hours,so I guess it's no wonder I'm dragging a bit today.

I did swing by CVS after we got home last night and picked up a host of Black Friday freebies. Many of them will be stocking stuffers, some in the Advent calendar, and some will likely go to the food pantry barrel. The 16-year-old checker whooped and hollered in praise at how many extra bucks I earned and used, but honestly, it took no time at all.

The weather stinks--cold and rainy--so I made lentil soup and another batch of slow-cooker applesauce. I'm watching pennies carefully. We've made a photo collage free at Walgreen's that will go in with the other small things for our sponsored child in Swaziland.

I'd like a few more days at home. It feels good to potter around here.