Thanksgiving week was the start of a fun little road trip for us....from East TN to Valley, AL (home of some die-hard Auburn fans....YAY, War Eagle), then on to Gulfport, MS and Talladega, AL before heading home.

Before the "house thing", we had planned to be working a project in Talladega at Shocco Springs.  From there it is only a little over an hour to Valley.  Since Jennifer and Brandon were traveling there with her boyfriend, Matt, to spend Thanksgiving with his mother and grandmother...we were invited along.  Well, it was a little (!!) further from East TN, but we decided to make the trip....and a very enjoyable and relaxing one it was.  Thanksgiving Day was so stress-free...wow!  Caroline and Jo Sands, along with the rest of the family, were so welcoming.

Our next stop was in Gulfport, where we celebrated an early family Christmas and spent a couple of days with Janelle, Chris and the boys (Chris would be leaving for an 8-month deployment to Africa on Dec. 1).  We had a great time, tho' I must say it was all tinged with sadness at the upcoming separation.  Our prayer is that God will sustain and protect while their family is separated through military service.

Heartwarming AND heartwrenching!
"How long 'til August, Daddy?"

Then it was on to Talladega and a visit with friends.  Such a shame that "those" people don't live in "this" area...or maybe vice versa?  Anyway, we always have a great time when we are with the folks at Shocco....even if it is for a short while.    And it seems that I always find little pieces of nature that I want to capture....but then I missed getting photos of our friends....bummer!   Next time, guys!



Next stop....east TN and HOME (oh, that sounds good)! 

In my next post, I'll share some highlights from the visit with Amber, Becky and Cody, and then it's on to one of my challenges....how to make this house "our" home (design and decor-wise).

Til then....enjoy all that God has for you....He IS a God of mercy and grace!