Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve is one of my favorite times of the year. It is so full of family traditions and laughter, that when looking back, it brings a smile to my face and warms my heart completely. This Christmas Eve was no different. We had all our children around us this year. It couldn't get better than that! One of the Rogers' traditions is that every family has to share a talent. More on that later. Tyler, Jenny, and Jade came over early and we practiced our "talent". We sang a Weech rendition to "Winter Wonderland". Yes, everyone sang...but I didn't get any pictures! Of course, we had to keep Jade entertained as well. We found a box...and she was in heaven!!  Of course, we kept adding to this new "toy"...first, just a box, then the rope to pull her and the pillow, and then Tyler took her outside.  We are easily entertained!!

Before we left for Grammy and Grampy's Aly brought out our traditional matching pj's.  This year, it was courtesy of Mexico.  Each shirt was hand-picked by Aly for each of her sisters and little niece.

We headed over for pizza and the re-enactment of the Nativity.  I'm so grateful to Jacque for capturing some of these precious moments on camera since I'm always at the piano!

After the Nativity, each family shares a talent.  Oh the talents we share.  We are serenaded by wonderful piano solos by blossoming pianists (Ashley and Faye) and also, each family sings a song.  The Goodmans' sang (with actions) "You Better Watch Out - Santa Clause Is Coming to Town".

Then, the Olivers' sang their traditional "12 Days of Christmas" with all their actions and at lickety-split speed.  They also entertained us with a new take on "Rudolph" - with Chloe singing while standing on her head (I TOLD you our family was very talented!!) and the rest of the Oliver crew as the echo.

This year, Grampy presented each of his grandchildren and girls and spouses with a very special coin.  He admonished his family to be Peaceable Followers of Christ and carry the coin with us as a reminder.

We all then convinced Grammy that she needed to share her talent with all her grandkids.  Ahhh....listening to my mother play the piano was absolutely wonderful.  Memories of music, listening to my mom play at every function imaginable, always sharing her love of music with others flooded my soul, brought tears to my eyes, and made my evening complete.

How I love my family!!  Christmas Eve was about perfect in every way.  At home, I had a few minutes in the quiet to think, pray and realize how very blessed we are - I am - to KNOW that my Savior lives.  His life of love was for me, my family, and everyone.  It was a wonderful way to celebrate this very special time of year.