Vegas Summit 2012

I'm sitting on my front porch, laptop in my lap, savoring a perfect fall night in Nashville.  It's almost (but not quite) chilly, with the temperature in the mid-50's.  Joe and I just returned from a walk to Cha Chah on Belmont Boulevard, where I had a glass of wine while he slept.  Good times in the 'hood.  

I'm listening to Shelby Lynn, "Live at McCabe's," on Spotify.  

Friday - Monday afternoon, Jude and I were in Las Vegas for the annual Foodbrothers' Summit.  It's a trip we take every fall, but it was the first time we had both been away from the boys.  I felt conflicted, because it was so, so nice to be away for a few days, on our own, with no responsibilities.  I felt guilty, actually.  On the other hand, I missed the boys so badly while we were away.  I couldn't wait to get back home to see them.  Jude felt the same way.  

We stayed at the Wynn, as usual.  It's Jude's favorite hotel/casino in Las Vegas.  It's nice to return there year after year.  We ate at a couple of nice restaurants (Sinatra's, for instance) and spend quality time with the Foodbrothers' gang (always the highlight of our trip).  The gang watched college football (and gambled on college football) all day Saturday, as is our custom.  I had a good day Sunday, betting on NFL games.  

We got back to Nashville on Monday, just after lunch.  After spending a little time with Joey (and Jude's parents) at home, we drove to Children's House to pick up J.P.  We parked in front and let ourselves into the playground through the gate.  When J.P. saw us, he grinned and ran across the playground to Jude, laughing with unbridled joy.  He jumped into her arms and hugged her, still laughing.  I'm not sure I've ever seen him that happy.  She set him down and he ran to me and leaped into my arms, still smiling and laughing.  I'm not sure I've ever been that happy and content.  

I was overwhelmed with my good fortune to have the family I have.  Jude and I are so blessed to have these boys.  It's amazing, how lucky we are.