Things I Learned in Marion, Virginia

1. Everyone in Virginia wears a bikini. I've never felt more confident that I was not the worst looking person on a beach.

2. Five grande Margaritas can mess you up, but a single tequila shot can knock you out.

3. Military fighter jets are very loud, very fast and a crude reminder of how lack of a television cuts you off from the rest of the world.

4. Virginian termite inspectors think it is acceptable to marry your twin brother.

5. Hiking to the top of a mountain is not my forte, but the view from the top makes it all worth it. However it is undetermined if I can do it sans panic attack and falling on my ass during the trip back down.

6. The night after hiking to the top of a mountain you will have vivid dreams of falling which jolt you awake every half hour.

7. Salsa combos and the phrase "You know how I know you're gay..." are very addictive.

8. You should be afraid of the deer because the deer are not afraid of you.

9. Always be on the lookout for fire ants, bears, and melted gum stuck to the seat of your paddle boat.

10. Uncle Charlie is a poker hustler. I must remember this before entering anymore tournaments.

11. I could definitely live in the mountains but for the creepy small-town people.

12. Some woman named Laura Lynn is the Bill Gates of grocery. Her name is on everything from grape soda to dry dog food.

13. Raccoons really do have table manners and eat their french fries one by one, thanking you with a wave when finished.

14. The movie theaters are cool enough to have Hayao Miyazaki characters painted on the front of the buildings, but the drive-in has an extremely crappy miniature golf course.

15. When Jon is contentedly quiet during dinner at a restaurant it is not only because he's shoving a quadruple layered sandwich into his mouth, but also because he is secretly soaking up every ounce of ESPN being televised behind your back.

To Do List 7/6/07

Pack swimsuits, beach towels, and sunblock.
Finish packing clothes and shoes (remember socks).
Double check packing list for any items we may have forgotten.
Get dogs ready for a weeks stay with the in-laws (include food, bowls, treats, and Macy's bear).
Gather all board games, cards, and books that will be making the trip with us.
Lay out comfortable clothes to wear during the 6-hour drive.
Put away dishes.
Wipe down counter tops.
Sweep floors.
Bag any non-perishable foods to bring along (i.e. triscuits, granola bars, and cereal).
Empty tote bag of work contents and fill with items to be readily accessible during the drive.
Load car.
Do Not Forget Camera!
Get sleep.
Stop making to do lists.

We're leaving tomorrow morning. See you next Saturday!