Sweet Christmas Eve

This was my favorite Christmas memory.

Addie and Madison casted Peter as Joseph and Kendall as Mary for our annual Christmas Eve Nativity reenactment. How do little 2 and 3 yr olds know how to play their roles so perfectly? I was amazed as I watched Peter as Joseph pull the donkey(Cheryl this year) by the rope and knew how to lead her to the manger (the ottoman). And still amazed as Kendall gently lay the baby on the manger. They took turns watching over the baby and wrapping the baby up in the blanket. They may have fought once or twice over the baby. Kendall's motherly instincts kicked in as she tried to nurse the babe. Very funny. And the other amazing thing...they both stayed in their costumes. Amazed I tell you.

The play ended with a series of kisses between Mary and Joseph much to our delight.

Exchanging Ornaments

Cheryl started a little tradition three years ago. A Christmas ornament exchange. We love it. This year it was my turn to host. I think that I prefer Cheryl hosting it...

First, I had to find 12 willing friends to make ornaments. Believe me. Some try to get out of it. So we, Cheryl & I, bribe them with a delicious brunch.

Next, I make cute invitations. As cute as Cheryl would produce. That's a lot of pressure.

And then the fun part. We search all our Christmas books, recipes, favorite blogs, & websites for the perfect Christmas brunch menu. This year it was buttermilk pancakes with blueberry sauce topped with a caramelized pear, inspired by Cheryl's stay at a bed & breakfast this summer on Victoria Island. Some times we try some thing new like candied bacon. Sweat & savory.

Oh what a beautiful sight.

I really enjoy this tradition. For two hours I get to hang out with incredible women, laugh, eat, and relax. Finally we decide to exchange.

Rachelle P. showing us her soda pop bottle cap ornament. So cute.

Rachelle L. showing off her darling vinyl ornament. Loved it! And Cheryl presenting her cheerful signs. Very sweet and festive. I hung mine on the Merry Christmas Wreath on my front door. Really love it!

And here's the rest.

Can you guess which one is mine? Next year I'm doing something with vinyl.

Every ornament has a story. Lisa's owl is made out of all recycled materials. She's so clever. Amy's ornament is inspired by something her mother does every year. Amy's whole tree is decorated with ornaments that are Christ centered. Perfect. I could go on and on. Each ornament I will cherish.