Christmas Eve

After morning rehearsal at church, we headed up to my grandparents' house so the grands and great-grands could decorate their tree. These ornaments are older than any of us and have a tremendous history.

It's hard to believe the fourth generation of K kiddos is hanging them up now.

Then it was back to my parents house to decorate their tree.

Then a delicious dinner before church- our traditional Veggie Cheese Chowder, fresh bread, and a new one this year, Lasagna Soup- so yummy!

At the Christmas Eve Service the choir was doing a cantata. As the choir director, Aunt Joanne decided to have a live nativity as the choir sang. She cast Erin and Michael as Mary and Joseph, Liam as baby Jesus, Carter as a shepherd, and Julia as an angel. The kids were so excited. We practiced Saturday morning and the received their costumes. They couldn't wait for Saturday night.

Liam was all smiles that night. I think he must have been excited, too :)

Uncle Jack and Aunt Alice lighting the advent candles...

Each of the kids did their parts just as they had practiced. Carter took it all very seriously. That afternoon he went out with Daddy and cut their shepherds staffs. And when he walked out he played the role acting like he was looking and searching. We had no idea how Liam would do with it all and had even brought a baby doll as back up.

He could not have been more perfect. For the entire service, despite it being past time for him to eat and go to bed, he lay in the manger quietly looking around and playing with his feet. As the light shown down, his little eyes just sparkled and his skin seemed to glow.

It was as if time was standing still for a moment and that precious babe was the only one in the room. It was a powerful experience reflecting on the meaning and reality of that famous night. All the power, majesty, and glory of God came into this broken and dark world as a tiny babe in a little town in difficult conditions.

As the music continued, the emotions grew.

The only thing missing from the evening was Uncle Jeff. Looking over toward the piano it was painful not to see him there in his usual spot. We know how much he would have loved seeing his daughter, son-in-law, and grandson portray the holy family. We know he was watching tonight and was there with all of us, but his presence was missed by us all.

As the evening ended we enjoyed some sweet quiet time at home, doing our nightly devotions and having fun together. We are so thankful for the blessing of spending this Christmas together and cherish the gift of health and family time.

So from our family to yours,

Merry Christmas!