Dublin, VA (USA)

I was up at around 0700.  Spent some time cleaning up and getting ready before heading to breakfast at Bojangles - I used one of the gift cards (0800).  Since Brenna was not able to meet, I had nowhere I had to be all day.  So, I left Marion at 0830 and drove north on I-81 until I reached the Dublin area.  Decided to visit the Claytor Lake State Park for a few hours.  I’ve been passing this place for years but had never stopped.  Stretched my legs along the lakeside and stayed in the park until about 1030.  After that, I got back on the Interstate and headed towards home.  Spent a bunch of time on the phone with Chris' family, prepping for tomorrow.  Stopped in Daleville/Troutville, where I got gas at Dodge's Store (1115), and made great time for the rest of the drive.  Actually, it was only about three hours before I was in Alexandria again!  I stopped at Mission BBQ (1435) for a free sandwich, ran some errands (drycleaning, groceries and clothes shopping) and then unpacked at home (1630).  I worked on the eulogy some more and then went over to Manchester to try to get a Veterans Day dinner at Chili's.  It was mobbed (no parking available) so I tried the IHoP instead (not as crowded).  I was able to get a great "Red, White and Blue" pancake breakfast (mmmm).  Headed home to get ready for the week.  Glad I could get away for a few days!