Christmas Catch Up, Part II

Christmas Eve was just as delightful as I hoped it would be.  We enjoyed a great lunch at Homeslice with the parentals and cousin Mickey.  Man, can they make a pie or what?

The rest of the afternoon we spent drawing pictures of Jesus, writing notes to Santa and getting ready for Christmas Eve Mass.  The evening service was quite nice.  Scott and the boys went early and saved seats, the girls, Luke and I flew in just minutes before it started.  Poor Scott had to beat off people wanting our front row seats!  Everyone was a little squirmy, but all in all, I’d call it a success.  I think what I love most about Christmas Eve Mass is the warmth, the happiness and the anticipation.  You can just feel the excitement.  I don’t think, I KNOW, I will be sad when the kids aren’t home to help us celebrate the season.  I believe it is their innocence that makes Christmas such a wonderful time of year.  They have such a raw faith.  Total trust.  Pure love.  As I reflected on Mary, riding that donkey, all the way to Bethlehem one has to wonder what exactly she was feeling.  I am thankful for her ‘yes’ – it changed the world.

Rightfully so, we sang a chorus of “Happy Birthday Jesus” upon returning home, enjoyed a home-cooked shrimp and pasta meal, read the Christmas story, opened presents, prepared for Santa and somehow got the kids in bed by 9pm.  Whew.

Can I just say it again?  I love Christmas!!  I’ll let the pictures speak for themselves.