Christmas

About 7:45 Friday morning, the truck was packed, Blackie was on board, and we pulled out of the RV park, heading north to Murrells Inlet, SC.

We had an easy drive up US 17, so easy in fact that we arrived at Alek & Lorrie's an HOUR earlier than we had expected and told them we'd get there. How's that for a great start as weekend houseguests!??! I did call ahead to warn them of the good time we'd made and to ask if they needed us to kill some time, but, Alek & Lorrie being the gracious people they are, didn't bat an eye and told us to come on. Then, they welcomed us with open arms.

It was a good afternoon of lunch and conversation. We went to Christmas Eve service at 6pm and came home to a delicious dinner of Boston butt BBQ, cole slaw, baked beans with peaches & whipped cream for dessert. Yummy.

This morning we woke to a quiet, laid-back Christmas morning. Certainly a different change of pace for us. :) But, it was quite enjoyable. Alek made us a breakfast of pancakes, eggs, and bacon. (I could sure get used to someone cooking for me all the time!)

With breakfast done and the sun shining, Alek & Lorrie suggested a walk along the beach. The temps were climbing toward 50*, so that sounded like a great idea. We went to Huntington Beach State Park. It was lovely!

A little cool out near the water, but so crisp and clean. Lots of other folks had the same idea. :) Alek got a picture of Randy, Lorrie and I, but I don't have it yet. I'll share it once Alek emails it to me.

Back at home, it was time to get dinner on the table. Once again, Alek & Lorrie treated us to a fabulous meal – they better stop this! :) We had turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, croissants, gravy, cranberry sauce, green bean casserole and, later, red velvet cake for dessert. Oh, my. We all stuffed ourselves and there was still leftovers.

We talked to all the kids and the grandkids; everyone having great Christmas celebrations of their own. It was a little tough not being there with them, but it was good to talk to them.

We finished our evening watching the movie, “The Book of Eli” with Denzel Washington. A very good movie. After more conversation in front the fire, it was finally time to call it a night.

A lovely way to spend Christmas day, with good friends with whom we can celebrate the birth of our Savior. Happy birthday, Jesus!