12-23-17 

So we woke up today and looked outside and saw------

 Did I ever mention how much I hate the cold.  And if it snows it's cold!

 I will say it was pretty right now, though.

 I even walked out to the street in front of our house and took a picture of our house and our 1 Christmas decoration.

 to the side of our house towards the spruce that Ken planted as a tiny tree years ago.  Always thought we'd cut it down for our Christmas tree some day, but it lives on.

We even had some blue skies.

 a view towards the dogwood tree my Dad planted about 47 years ago when I first moved here.  The snow wasn't nearly as pretty back then since there were no trees on the whole street!

 Today was the day we were suppose to go to Josh's parents' house with him and Angie for a Christmas brunch with his family and relatives.  But with Angie and Josh getting a baby 2 days ago, they stayed in Atlanta.  They couldn't get rid of us, though!  We still went!  It was a pretty ride to their house. 

 Near Josh's folks' house

 the pond down the street from them.  Didn't even notice the swans when I was taking pictures!

 More decorations around the pond.

The swans still photo bombing my pictures.

 an eifel tower?!

 Carol out did herself again!!! 

 even out did herself with all the Christmas decorations again.  The only one we put up this year was the Santa face on the house.

 some of the goodies----Grinch deviled eggs.

 tasty chicken and waffles

 Haven't had pigs in a blanket in ages---yummm

 some of the clan

 Carol finally getting herself some brunch.

 setting up for a group picture.

 almost there.

 ta-da!!!  Our greeting to Angie, Josh and baby Layla since they couldn't join us.

 even their back yard was decorated.

After a wonderful time with the Hickses, it was time to go join the Knoxville LaBeaumes and Faith's dad and stepmom.  Tim and Faith drove in today and we all went out to dinner to celebrate Tim's 39th birthday which was yesterday.

 Caught in the action of eating. 

 Tim's present from Brenda and Jerry---Tennessee Vol's throw. 

Then we went back to Jerry and Brenda's house to continue the celebrating.  Faith sporting her new glasses

 Faith, Cora, and Jerry.

Ended the evening playing some Mexican Dominos.  Fun time had by all!