Twas the night before Christmas...

We had our traditional Christmas Eve gathering over at Memaw and Papa's with a delicious spread of ham, fruit, and cheeses, along with an un-traditional ton of shrimp. We visited, and snacked, then the kids took a late nap. We opened presents in the evening and that ended with an un-traditional silly string frenzy. Lots of fun, Memaw!! Then we drove over for a quick late-night visit at YiaYia's with friends and cousins. And the night culminated with Midnight Mass at the Episcopal Church.

Fender made it through half the service, then we had to lay him down to sleep in the pew. I picked him up and carried him forward to the altar at communion for a blessing, then laid him back down on the pew still fast asleep. Very precious.

Attending midnight mass is one of my very favorite things! And it is all the more special when you can do so in a church that your family has been a part of for six generations. And even more special, was the fact that Fender's cousins (Godfather included) played trombone and trumpet beautifully and we sat with their parents (my Godmother included).

Sister in-law and daughter Julia decorating Christmas cookies for Santa.


Sleeping beauties: Fender's cousin Claudia is only three months younger.


Sometimes the packaging is as much fun as the gifts.


Silly String Extravaganza:
Aunt LaLa.


Claudia.



Cousins: Julia, Fender and Claudia