My New Niece and Other Happenings

The week after Thanksgiving I took a little trip down to the Lexington area - for three main reasons. First, I wanted to visit my Grandpa who is in a nursing home. He didn't know who I was which was very strange for me. He just turned 93, and his body and mind are declining quickly. He can't walk anymore unless two or three others who are strong enough can help him, and he sleeps more than anything else. He does feed himself, but only if someone is with him to keep him awake throughout the meal. So... it was difficult for me to see, but of course I was only there for a brief time. Grandmom needs much grace during this time. What is exciting is that he is on the brink of eternity and knows Jesus. We don't know when he'll be going Home, but what a joy it will be when that happens to know that he's forever in paradise with the Lord!

Second reason: to visit Dad & Mom's new cabin which is just beautiful. They are out of their B&B and are loving their time off from the daily upkeep of the business. They're just like two peas in a pod in their lovely little cabin-in-the-woods in Fairfield, VA:

Third reason: I have a new niece! Nomie and Scott had their sixth child - another little girl named Lucy Mae. She's adorable of course and even has red hair which I think is precious! Here is Maggie (big sister for the first time!), Lucy and me:
Lucy Mae, being held by Grant who is sadly out of the picture. Sorry Grant!
Autumn and Grace with Lucy:
Emma with Lucy:
and Nomie with Lucy:
I spent all day Thursday with them... they skipped their normal home school routine for some stay-at-home field-trip type activities, and we all had fun playing and learning together.

Back at home now..... the house is decorated for the holidays, most of our gifts are bought already (a great feeling!) and "soon it will be Christmas day!" Hope you all are enjoying this wonderful time of year!