The Story of Christmas

It wasn't snowing, just the hay in the air!
The three wisemen presenting Jesus with the gifts.
Joseph, Mary, and their son Jesus!
Baby Jesus!
Owen and cousin Paul, who was showing Owen the ropes. He was Jesus last year.

For the last 25 years the Adam family has been reading the story of Christmas. Each year family members, extended family, and friends join together in Billy and Gigi's barn to hear the story and watch the reenactment. All of the kids in the family and even sometimes the adults (if a space needs filling) participate. Hot cider and popcorn are served while the music books are being passed around. The crowd fills in and sit on bales of hay which have been stacked like a stadium. The children are changed into their costumers, which have been collected an hand sewn by Gigi over the years. The animals are also prepped for the performance. They include sheep, goats, chickens, a camel (not a real one), and even a dog.

Matt took me to see this display the first year we started dating. I have been forever telling my family and friends about how neat I think it is. First, it is great to see all of these family members together and embracing the holiday season. Second, it really reminds you why we celebrate Christmas. And last, to see the smile or frowns on the kids faces is priceless.

So this year Owen got to play the part of baby Jesus. Each year the youngest baby gets to play the part, so it is a pretty big deal. Matt was very skeptical about how Owen would behave. He didn't think Owen would last a second in the manger, but low and behold, he did a wonderful job!

After the performance is over everyone loads into Billy and Gigi's house and enjoys a spaghetti dinner. Followed by a visit from Santa Claus for the kids. It is a great time full of laughter and smiles. I hope the tradition continues to live on. Merry Christmas to all!