Ahhh... Christmas Eve. So much anticipation. So much preparation. So satisfying and rewarding.
The kids table. I don't think much food was actually consumed, but they seemed to have a wonderful time.
Charming children.
Greta with her Mommy and "Daddy Bear". That's what she calls Abe.
As per tradition, we did do a Nativity pageant. I'm sorry to say there were a few irreverent moments, most all of which came from my naughty children. Hmm...we're going to have to rethink who directs the pageant. It has been Bethany for many years, but she seems to be taking too much creative license.
We had wise women this year. Which would have been fine, had not one wise woman in particular quoted a popular internet vine while presenting the myrrh... MURDER! JUDAS NO!
No remorse.
Yeah, so, we'll be making changes next year.
There was singing. And I mean good singing! My sister-in-law, Laura's mom was spending Christmas with their family so she joined up for the evening. She is a truly remarkable pianist, so to have her playing the piano for our singing was a Christmas dream come true.
Faith played her "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" for us.
We face-timed my brother Matt who lives in Denver. He requested to hear Bethany play the violin. Lucky for us, Julene Updike can sight read very difficult music, so she accompanied Bethany playing her concerto. Maybe he got more than he asked for! But you don't get to have an accompanist like her in your house everyday!
There was pie and visiting.
Father and son-- Peter and Eli.
Abe read a favorite Christmas story, "Christmas Bells For Anya" and then shared a message from our missionary.
New pajamas from Grandma and Grandpa.
Silly girls showing off their evil cat pajamas pants.
The boy cousins.
The girl cousins.
They really have too much fun.
Grandpa reading "Twas the Night Before Christmas".
Bethany cracking us up reading "Cajun Night Before Christmas". I swear she gets it better and better every year.
It was just what a Christmas Eve ought to be. Family, food, children, music, gifts, and most importantly, a focus on the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ-- the giver of all good gifts. We are so grateful.
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