A handsome man came to town and it wasn't Santa

OK,OK, I know that I am not very good at editing my pictures.  I just don't like to choose which one to post so I post a lot.  You will just have to live with it because it is MY blog.  If you want fewer pictures and more inspiration, you will need to find another blog to follow. 

Erik came to town for a brief visit yesterday.  We wanted to see him so we drove down for the day.  All the travel 'gods' were kind to us and he arrived on time.  We also were blessed with good traveling and arrived about noon in Grand Rapids. 

 Eva and Erik had a fire waiting for us.  Eva also had cheese soup (in honor of David) on the stove. 

 After lunch the traveler stretched out in front of the fire.  No matter how 'well traveled' you are, when you come home some things don't change and a nap by the fire is always a blessing.  Isn't he handsome????

 Erik and Jessica enjoyed looking at pictures of Erik's adventures.  He had some great pictures taken underwater.  I didn't know so many different kinds of creatures lived on the reefs and ocean floor. 

 Mom was loving it, having her youngest at home for a visit. 

 It was a quiet afternoon of a little napping, a lot of talking and a lot of sharing.  Bud did a little relaxing and reading, his newest way to read the Economist magazine in his spare time. 

 Eva had planned a great dinner for all of us.  Jessica did a good job of helping with the meal. 

 Flank steak, mashed potatoes, gravy, salad were on the menu.  Doug joined us after his day of work. 

 Isn't that a great group of kids.  Yes, I know they aren't kids anymore but they still seem like that to me sometimes. 

 The 'after dinner' picture moments. 

 Mom and her 'kids'.  She was so happy to have them home for the evening. 

 The Aunt and Uncle were thrilled to be invited and have a chance to catch up with Erik. 

 Creative Jessica gave Erik some of her favorite beers as his Christmas present. 

Check out the antlers and red noses on those long necks.  That is what I mean about creative. 

We arrived home about 10:30, just in time for bed.  It was a glorious day and we are very thankful for our time with Erik. Oh, the blessings of family.