Weekend in Columbus, Oh

Mom, Gillian, NanNan and I took off for Columbus, OH this past weekend. We spent 2 nights and 3 days at Beautiful Casa de Stacey-my Aunt Gwen and Uncle Ronnie's house in the 'Burbs. Gillian had a great time exploring the house and the neighborhood. Holt Park,the planned community my aunt and uncle live in has a very Stepford look to it. Each yard has the same alotted acreage. Homeowners have their choice of one of 5 or 6 designs for their abode with all white siding but they can pick Colonial colors for the trim and shutters (if applicable). Residents can make changes as such as major renovations and additions. There is no street side parking. Holt Park gorgeous! Gillian loved the playground and lake in the middle of the 'hood and we are planning another visit to celebrate the opening of the pool on Memorial Day.
On Saturday, Nans and I went to a place called The Floral Factory. It is a big warehouse-type store that sells only to businesses. We just borrowed Gwen's pass (she got hers thru her friend's floral shop). Nanners got a buncha stuff for her Sunday School class' Mother's Day project and I picked up some delightfully wholesale-priced jewelry as well as supplies for Gillian's 6th Bday party (SpongeBob-themed, of course) coming up this summer. After the Floral Factory Nan Nan talked me into going to 2 thrift stores. Man, the stuff city people get rid of! At the first Salvation Army alone I found more vintage jewelry (a passion of mine) than I have ever seen in one spot. There was a STUNNING Scarab watch (circa 1972) that I coveted big time. AND a to-die-for sterling silver turquoise pendant that my Mother-in-Law would have loved. And even tho I was offered a great deal for both, I decided to pass. Money is a bit tight right now. I did, however, pick up a gift for my sis' bday in September. The second store didn't have as much to offer although I did grab 2 cute tee shirts to work out / clean house in. OH! I found a hardback copy of Michael J Fox's first book ( I have yet to get his latest), Lucky Man. I have the paperback already, of course.
The rest of the weekend was spent laying low and hangin out with Gillian and the rest of the family. We had a crazy, fun weekend and it was nice to get away but I am glad to be home and I am even glad to be back at work. Well, if you can call blogging on company time 'working!!'