December 21, 2009. Chattanooga, Tn. Driving.

We lost the snow all of a sudden. I expected to see the snow diminished bit by bit and then finally, see no snow at all, but all of a sudden, there was no snow anywhere, just like a line in the sand. But the snow stayed with us all the way through Virginia and into Tennessee. But today the sky was clear and sunny and the highways were dry, so we drove for two sessions each of two hours at time, leaving Winchester at 7:30, and arriving in Chattanooga at 4:30. It comes as no surprise of course, but our room last night was fine and we enjoyed it, but the room tonight is much better and bigger. No surprise, it costs more money. I still don't know how it can be done. Last night we stayed at a Hilton Garden Inn. It cost $74. which comes with a full hot breakfast and a lovely room, which is equipped with computer line. All included. Tonight we are on the outskirts of Chattanooga, staying in a Marriott Suites Hotel. The space is twice the size, and includes a full kitchen along with a sitting area and a dining table and a desk. All for $135.

Friday at the farm we loaded the truck, in fact we filled the truck. Just like the Okies heading West, our car is full. I don't know how on earth all this stuff will fit into our small condominium in Jackson. I guess it is a bad idea to pack up some stuff now and other stuff another day. When it was finally all organized and collected together, I probably have brought too much stuff. Five large bags are also in the truck, but those Christmas gifts are but a pittance when compared with all the rest I have stolen from the farm and the apartment. I will be very interested to see how it all gets done.

This will be our first Christmas in Mississippi. We are excited to see the girls. Tomorrow we have about six hours of driving before arriving at Christina and Andrew's house so we can unload the two coolers of good Angus beef. Next we recruit help to unload the truck!! Tonight we will find a good restaurant, then watch the Redskins a bit before having a good night's sleep.