The snow, plowed perfectly by Norman’s ruined front bumper, was deep and surrounded his vehicle. He knew driving out was not an option.His engine sc...eamed in its death throes. Anti-freeze shot forward, transmission fluid gushed down, and engine oil dripped rapidly, all at once. Several shades of smoke rose from the battered front end, and Norman knew the Blazer would never run again. Even if he could dig it out, he was struck, and it was Christmas Eve.Because the power company had automatic. ”“Thank you, and by the way, I called your mom and told her what to expect, and what to do, and that we are taking a longer rout back there, to see a little bit of country before we get there. She also said that she loves you and not to worry about her, that she will be okay, and if we do need to get back there faster, she will text you on your phone.”“Okay.”Going out to the truck and opening the door for my aunt Cindy to get into the passenger seat, “I hope you will enjoy the view you will. After John turned eighteen, she hoped to include him too, but those details would have to wait till later.Several people were already in the courtroom, waiting her to appear. Alice walked confidently, with her head held high, down the path. She recognized several of the people in the audience as colleagues from school, or neighbors that were interested.She also saw John, Anna and Harry sit behind the prosecutor. She offered John a weak smile when he looked at her, but after a poke from Anna he. "Hiya, Abo. How's it goin'?" Cutie greeted the girl as if they were long time friends."Goin' slowly, but still goin'. How's your life?" Abo was acting like a teenager again.Mike and Katie were happy to see her looking better. Mike had decided that he needed to explain what was happening before someone else told her that he had arrested her Dad for murder and child abuse.Cutie beat him to it. "Hey, girlfriend! How would you like to blow this joint and come stay with us for a while?"No one had.