Christmas Eve...

Growing up in my family Christmas Eve consisted of dinner, a talent show, (some gift shaking - shame on you dad!) the reading of the Christmas story, and getting treats out for Santa and Rudolph.  Then we would head off to bed excited and knowing that we would only sleep off and on - but enough for Santa to come.  One year my dad told us that we had to wait until (I think it was) 6:00am to get up.  My eyes popped open before that time (I think my clock read 4:10 or so). As I was laying in my bed, I would watch my clock (I had one with a second hand.) and see how long I could hold my breath - just to past the time.  It dawned on me as I was watching my clock and listening to the chimes of the Grandfather clock downstairs that when my clock said 5:00am, there just happened to be 6 chimes from the grandfather clock.  Hmmm - my dad thinks he's tricky!

Anyway, the past couple of years we have had the Koschene family over for Christmas Eve and have carried on some of those same traditions.

Dinner - brown sugar ham, pineapple casserole, potato casserole, asparagus, green beans, rolls, strawberry pretzel salad and yummy desserts!

Getting ready for the talent show.

I think this was Paul's reaction when asked what talent he was sharing! :)  Next year, Paul and Layne, next year!

(I'm not sure what Mary and Karlee are doing here but, I thought it was a funny picture!)

Kavan started off the show by singing Mary had a Little Lamb while doing a headstand.  (I had told Kavan that one Christmas Eve growing up we were "razzing" my dad about not sharing a talent.  My dad proceeded to let us know that he had a talent - he performed a headstand.  So, Kavan had to be like Grandpa!)

 Miss Karlee played the piano.

Kenzie and Kyler played a bassoon and flute duet.

 Bryant played the saxophone.

Zach played the saxophone.

Kenzie had asked if I would play a Christmas duet with her and we did.  I cannot hold my breath for as long as I use to.  We also played a piano duet - my fingers hold up better than my breath!  :)

Then we had a fun gift exchange.

The Koschene's are awesome friends.  We love them and had such a great time!

Time to set out treats for Rudolph and Santa.  (Notice Kyler still has his hat on - good job, Mary!)

Waiting for Santa....