Christmas Eve Eve Cousin Nativity

I can honestly say that this year's cousin nativity was probably the best one yet. The only thing missing was Tanner. And Josi! Rayleigh helped Ella prepare her angel costume for hours the day before- it was so sweet to see these sisters getting ready together. Rayleigh altered her angel costume over and over. At 9 years old, she hasn't learned the "less is more" concept. But somehow she always pulls it off and looks amazing!

Jon rented out the clubhouse again, my mom and I brought tons of food. The weather was exquisite. And the vibe with nothing short of merry.

The kids all did an absolutely fantastic job with the nativity. They were the perfect combination of fun and reverent. Ella decided to be Mary alongside Noah. Parker was the Roman Soldier and squeezed himself into a red vest. Jack participated for the first time ever and was the coolest shepherd ever! Rayleigh was, of course, an angel. It just comes so naturally to her. She was diligent in memorizing some lines but the script was a little different and she wasn't able to deliver her part exactly as she had practiced. But that's ok!

After the nativity we opened gifts and everyone was so stoked. I got Kari and Christmas Morning Pancake Breakfast Kit, I made Cami a Buddy the Elf Meal Kit, and for Jon and Laura, we made them an Ice Cream Sundae Kit (just add ice cream). We had a fun talent show where the girls were able to don their dance costumes again and perform their routines. Noah had us all laughing during a stand up comedy act, and Kim and Jessi sang with their beautiful voices. The kids then ran off to play and I read my talk again for those who weren't able to hear it. It really helped invite the spirit and we all sat around as adults and had a wonderful discussion about family history. 

Traffic was light and breezy and we got home in time to snuggle down with Tanner who had been home for hours when we got there. ha ha We had the clubhouse booked until 3:00 but since no one else needed it, we were able to stay until about 5 which was so nice.

The cousin nativity is one of my favorite Christmas Traditions and I'm so thankful for a family who keeps it alive.

What a beautiful, miraculous story of a tender Mary who courageously sought God's will and a humble Joseph who did all he could to support her. The shepherds in the fields who quickly obeyed the angel's admonition to go and see the baby. The angels who's beauty and light lit up the sky. I love it all. 

Merry Christmas!

Mom bearing her testimony