The past few days were just what the doctor ordered. Lots of rest, good food and family time. Pretty marvelous if you ask me! I will be seeing my family in 10 days in NYC for the marathon (!!!) but I won’t be home until late-December as we are traveling for Thanksgiving. I made sure to do all of my favorite Tampa things and soak up what bit of fall weather we had.
Weekend Highlights
The food. Next to seeing my family this was the best part. Grilled chicken, baked salmon (with a cinnamon soy glaze), spiralized veggies, chicken Marsala, roasted pumpkin seeds, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, watermelon (duh) and lunch at my new favorite restaurant. My stomach was very happy.

Clockwise from top left: Salad with steak, chicken, roasted cauliflower, broccolini and quinoa; baked salmon with sautéed zucchini noodles and salad; watermelon and pumpkin seeds (guess I can’t decide which season it is); chicken Marsala
The weather. Even though Tampa is only 4 hours away from my school, it felt like 4 states away based on the weather difference. No humidity, high 60s and alight breeze…I just couldn’t get enough. My run on Saturday morning was a lot faster than normal and I credit the weather for that! 12 miles never felt so good. I also enjoyed walks and lunches outside and didn’t have to worry about sweating. What a change!
The family. We had low-key nights just hanging out at home, which I of course loved. We carved pumpkins, watched football, went for a long walk and actually had a family portrait taken (aka I got my hair and makeup done). It was a kind of fun to dress up and pose though…but I don’t foresee myself starting a new career path anytime soon.
The rest. I brought homework with me as I intended to be productive over break. Key word: intended. I did spend a few hours yesterday cramming some work in but for the most part, I disconnected from my “obligations” AND technology. Boy did that feel nice. My to-do list is always in the back of my head but at least for a few days I was able to ignore it.
The perspective. It’s always hard to leave my family, even though I know I’ll be seeing them next week. I value my relationship with them so much and hate that it’s a “treat” to see them. I know I won’t live away forever but for now I’m making the most of our short visits and continuing to bug them via text messages when I’m at school.
All in all, it was a pretty darn great 4 days. Getting back into my routine and actually doing homework starts now….
Do you live away from your family?
Favorite part of your weekend?
Thanks, Katie for hosting!
I disconnected for the most part too, but the weekend just flew by and i barely remember what happened, haha! But seeing the family and doing just “whatever” is so essential sometimes! XOXOX
Mine flew by too! The best weekends always do.
Aw I’m glad you had such a great weekend with your family! I remember how hard that was for me when it was time to leave but you’re right, you don’t have to live far away forever! I always used to ignore all homework while I was with them too. Sometimes you just need a total break to reset and it sounds like you did exactly that :)
I think being home was the perfect (and accepted) excuse to not do homework. Not sure it would have gotten done anyway ;) It was the perfect reset!
Aw it looks like you had a great fall break!! I went home and spent time with my family too :) By the way, those pictures totally made me ready for lunch…and it’s still the am!
xoxo
Kimberly | Kimberly’s Chronicle
Hope you enjoyed your time with your family! :)
Nothing beats good food with great company together! x
http://stephlui.blogspot.com
The two BEST things! Food and family.
I truly believe unless the work HAS to be done, it’s always best to just unplug and enjoy every second you can with family and friends.
Couldn’t agree more! Work is not as important as quality time in the big scheme of things.
Aw, I love weekends at home! :) You’re just too precious :) and that food looks amazing. Nothing beats a solid weekend away with the fam :) Since I moved across the country, I’m looking forward to going home for the holidays.
I definitely cherish the weekends I get at home. Ah- the holidays are right around the corner! Excited for you!