Great Big Thanks

I've done this before a couple of ways, but I wanted to put down my sincerest thank you to several people who made my time in Pennsylvania that much better. This by far not everyone I was able to spend time with, but I wanted to make a few special notes...

Uncle Ed and Aunt Nancy, your hospitality was exceptional. Uncle Ed, it was always fun discussing how the world works. So, no surprises, but Uncle Ed and I are on different sides of the political spectrum. I only wish that everyone could be as civil in their communications. I'm a fan of vigorous disagreement, but the key is that the discussion is about the ideas, not the people putting forth those ideas. And Aunt Nancy made a shrimp risotto one night that I just could not believe. So tasty -- why have we never had this for Thanksgiving?! Both of you were a joy, thanks.

Cousins Susan, Ryan, Edward -- I had so much fun hanging out with you all! From the dinners to the games to the talks over drinks. Mmmmm, wish I could call you all up right now and have you over for dinner! All of you were so fun, yes, but also so outstandingly helpful. Susan took me to lunch, visited at the office, and kept me laughing. Oh, and for buying that movie-sized TV for us to watch the World Series. Ryan hung out with me and taught me the talking points of genetics. And Edward. Not only did he loan me a computer for the visit, but he took me to the airport AND took me to the motherlode of cannoli... Termini's in South Philadelphia. First, Edward, Ryan and I dropped by the Reading Market and had cannolis (with coffee, of course). Then, like a master guide leading a pilgrim to Mecca, Edward expertly weaved through tiny streets (usually with a story about shooting a film on every other block) and located Termini's.

Wow. Phil and I had some great times out, too, including a surreal trip to Allentown Bethlehem airport to pick up another campaign worker friend, Austin, who came in from California to push Horsham over the top. By the way, did you know Horsham voted for Obama? Can you say whoa? It was great to hang out like back in the day. Wish you were closer. And your kids are the most adorable creatures on the planet. Seriously.

Mom and Dad, it was fun pretending that I was close by. And Mom, thanks for sacrificing your car so I wouldn't be stranded in odd places all over Montgomery County. It was such fun seeing you guys on a regular basis. I hope we can get you out here soon!

Karen, thanks for the car and thanks for making so much time to spend with me. And thanks for taking good care of Austin while he was in town. Too bad we can't get the dogs together to play. Such fun. Julie and I are looking forward to roadtripping to Vegas to see you in your softball tournament!

Grandmom! Thanks for spending the morning with me and feeding me a wonderful breakfast. It was great getting to see you.

There are so many more thank you's -- but I'm running out of room! Thanks so much and hope you all had a great Thanksgiving!