some wonderful "gems"

How did December get here so fast? Sometimes as I go about the daily routines of life I get caught up in the moments and forget the days and weeks and how quickly they go by. For the most part, I consider that a good thing - the keeping focused on the moments part especially.

I just got back from some lovely days in Richmond Virginia visiting brother and his family. We talked, laughed, remembered, ate good stuff, rested, took in sites, cried, had some wonderful "gems" - moments of pure delight, and then before you know it I was back home again.

Checking out the coffee/pastry scene is always a must - I can highly recommend Sub Rosa Bakery (photo above) a small delightful shop where we sat next to a 2 year old girl and her father who lived in the area. The morning buns were flaky, sticky, not too sweet, melt in your mouth good.

We visited "Dances with Wool" - a local yarn store that was wonderful. Brother sat and visited with a woman who turned out to be the owner who worked in the Chesterfield school district for many year, and they had mutual acquaintances. Gem. Inspiration was all around in this excellent shop.

I made it to Alma's, which has been on my list, and found these small framed studies by Annabelle Wrigley that I had been hoping to see. Love her use of color and free-wheeling piecing plus quilting. Gem x 2.

Ironclad coffee also got high marks. They were playing an excellent selection of Christmas music in the background. I found the perfect table for taking it all in.

Strolls through neighborhoods were taken. All the ginkgo leaves sat below their trees like skirts. Fabulous.

We got to attend an Italian dinner served family style at Caffespresso. We ate wonderful things we normally may not order from a menu (Brandacujun, Trofie with Pesto, Ligurian Style chicken, Ricotta Pasta Frolla cake) each course paired with the perfect wine. We met Lou the biology professor/researcher who did field research in the Yucatan peninsula and Alaska. Gem.

Brother and I made more memories to make up for the things we can only vaguely recall now. It's funny how when you are a kid, you don't think much about your brothers and sisters as such dear friends. As an adult, I am completely aware of my great good fortune in having 3 siblings that are excellent human beings that I LOVE spending time with.

Thanks for a great 4 days brother!