Celebrating 30 Years

I've been away from the blog world for a bit to celebrate our wedding anniversary.

On June 27th, 1981 we said "I Do".

Yep, that's 30 years with the same man.

Thirty years and we're still "doing" and for that I am thankful.

We decided to get away for a few days and head to a couple of bed and breakfasts in Virginia.  It was a very laid back trip.  On the way we decided to stop in Mt. Airy, NC. 

Mt. Airy is where Andy Griffith was born and his childhood home remains there today.

It seems there is some debate as to whether Mt. Airy was the small town that inspired The Andy Griffith Show. 

Whether it was or it wasn't, it sure does have the feel of good ole' Mayberry.

After leaving Mayberry Mt. Airy we drove on many mountain roads with beautiful views as we wound our way into Virginia and the first bed and breakfast inn.  We enjoyed eating at great restaurants, stopping at antique shops, visiting Stonewall Jackson's house and even visiting a local winery.  You'll have to take my word on this as we didn't take any pictures.  I told you it was a laid back trip ; - ).

Our second destination had a lovely view from the balcony.  It overlooks the Pagan River in Smithfield, Virginia.

Smithfield is where the famous Smithfield hams are made.  It has a cute little downtown area and The Smithfield Inn (pictured above) is where Paula Deen has filmed some of the commercials for Smithfield hams. 

While I was checking out some of the shops, Brett had a chat with Ben.

The Christmas Store was having a Christmas in July sale. 
One of the windows was done up with a red, white and blue Christmas tree along with Uncle Sam.  Very cute.
Inside they even had Santa visiting.  He was dressed in his red pants and a patriotic shirt.

Now we are home once again and as I sit here typing away, the fireworks are going off all around me.  It's a week long event around these parts (much to the chagrin of Peanut who likes to hide in the closet and whimper). 
It was good to be away and now it's good to be home.
I'll be around to visit just as soon as I get the suitcases unpacked and the washing machine humming.
In the meantime, Happy, Happy 4th of July to all of my readers in America!!