Georgetown - to the French Embassy

Talk about last minute... As I write this blog update, I am flying from D.C. to Columbia, SC. In two days, I leave for France, and I am wrapping up a last-minute trip to the French Embassy to get my work visa. Even though there was a huge mix-up, I finally have what I need to begin my new job in France. It was a beautiful day as I took a long walk through Georgetown to the embassy. Though I started my journey in Augusta at 3AM this morning, I easily made it to my appointment at 10AM sharp. As I walked, I saw some of the sights of Georgetown. If you ever go to D.C. for vacation, you should stay in Georgetown. It is a very nice place, and many historical landmarks, especially the houses, are well preserved.

Thanksgiving Day at the Harpers'

Ben and Jenn hosted for Thanksgiving Day this year. Avery, Grant, and Leeroy (their dog) welcomed us for a delicious meal and a wonderful time. Our day began with a visit to their church to prepare Thanksgiving meals-on-wheels for people in need. We then returned to the house to prepare the Harper Thanksgiving meal. Ben led a short devotion before the meal, and the family grouped around Cindy and me to ask a blessing on us as we start our adventure in France. We feel so loved by ALL our family, and we love them ALL.
Later, Uncle Tommy and James presented some wonderful letters written by all of us years ago to our now late Mama Harper. My grandparents were tremendous examples that we could never forget. It was a great joy to spend time as a family, remembering and honoring her and Papa.

Visit with the Parkers

Christine and Lora said that they were determined to see me before I left for France. Cindy and I were determined to visit the Parker side of the family one more time before I left for France. So, we all got together in Talladega at Mama's and Papa's house. When we arrived, the smell of Thanksgiving dinner filled the house. Mama must have been cooking all day. There was so much food! Over a delicious Thanksgiving dinner, we all had a chance to catch up on what's going on in our busy lives. We got to see Jackie, Tim, and Karen as well, but we missed seeing Lee, John, and Charlee.

Early Thanksgiving 2006

Thanksgiving dinner is not reserved exclusively for Thanksgiving Day, at least not for our family. Cindy and I gathered with the rest of the Gore family this weekend for what we called "Early Thanksgiving" or in CatchPhrase lingo, "Two words! First word: not late but... Second word: the national holiday on which we send appreciation to God for His many blessings..."

Before the family arrived, Mr. Gore thought of how many grandchildren he has and added a sunroom (pictured) to his house.

Family activities for the weekend, besides eating, were CatchPhrase, walking at the park, throwing football, cutting a tree down, and watching Auburn beat Alabama in the Iron Bowl. War Eagle!

Farewell Fairhope

A visit to Fairhope gave us the opportunity to be with Mom and Dad a few days during Cindy's fall break from teaching. It also allowed us to say goodbye to our friends Beverly, Ida, and the Bessies.

This trip, Cindy finally got to try Gambinos', my favorite Italian restaurant. It would have been easy to go straight there after the beach "photo shoot", but we didn't think the matching khaki look would go over very well in the restaurant.