The weekend before Christmas

Our Christmas plans went topsy-turvy this year. We've learned to be flexible, even over the holidays! Originally, we weren't going to see anyone until Christmas day. That turned into Bill's parents spending the weekend with us, and Bill's brother Patrick's family coming down for the day on Sunday. So, we had a fun-filled weekend before a relaxing Christmas - just our immediate family. Here are some pictures from their visit...

When we heard that Bill's folks would be coming down, it worked out well with our plans to see the lights at Bellingrath Gardens near Mobile, Alabama. They drove down from TN, and met us there for dinner and a tour. The lights were beautiful and the weather was perfect. The boys enjoyed riding on Daddy and Grandad Tom's shoulders as you can see! Tom and Carole stayed to tour the Home, and we headed back to get the kids to bed.

A "Cajun Christmas" in lights... notice the alligators... we're familiar with those down here!

It was cute - I love seeing things from our children's perspective. At one point, we were walking through an area with large firework shapes all lit up. Grant was looking around and said, "Look! Big Crayons!"
The next day, Patrick and Pam's family came down from Jackson.
Our niece, Kaylen, did a baton routine for us to Christmas music... in her "Heelys." Now that is talent. Good job, Kaylen!

The cousins, Grant, Ivan, Glynn, and Kaylen (in the tire) had a blast outside, making a "dam" on the slide, and "mowing" our sandy backyard. They all came in for cookies and hot chocolate after a while, thanks to Grant's announcement of, "Hey, guys! If you all come inside, my mom will give you hot chocolate!!!"

Grant, enjoying a book with Nana Carole

Miss Mary, in her new pink coat! ... she reminds me of myself at her age. I had a pink coat too. Just not as much hair. : )

Thanks for making the trip, Grandad Tom and Nana Carole! We love you!