Yule Log: Jan 1

Stayed up until 3am revelling with R & N. Not overly tired, but knew morning would be early. Up at 7:30 with M. Rested a bit on sofa while she played iPad. Roy and Colin joined shortly before 9. Yogurt and tea for breakfast. Dad arrived shortly after 9. Morning of packing and opening birthday presents for Lydia and Colin. M got a few more Christmas gifts from the Pittsburghers: a bunch of Charlie Brown theme things to go along with the Charlie Brown Christmas DVD they gave us. Goodbyes all around. Pleasant whirlwind visit. Depart for Silver Spring about 11:45. Clear sunny day. Nice for driving. Shortly after 1pm, stopped at turnpike service center for lunch at Steak and Shake. Very slow. Finally our turn. Me: "I'd like a portobello burger with no meat. Please." Lady: "So, you'd like a portobello burger with no bun." What? No! Argh. There was also some confusion about our drink order. Miraculously, we all got what we wanted in the end and for 10 cents less than what we should have paid. I had a yummy Butterfinger shake with my mushroom and onion sandwich. Back on the road. Arrival in Silver Spring 4:15. Unloaded car. Had a light snack of pita chips, fruit, goat cheese and ravioli. Then back out at 5 en route for Verizon Center by metro. 6pm Wizards vs Mavericks basketball game (see 2 G+ photos). Tight game until last three minutes when Dallas disappointingly pulled ahead. Game highlights. For M: remote controlled van blimp. For S: spectacular presentation of players. For T & G: G-Man and the Secret Service Dunkers who performed stunt dunks during a time out. Back home 9:30 for leftover red velvet bday cake before bed. Early night for all as all tired out from New Year's celebration. Night night for me 10:30.