Traditions abound on Christmas Eve! It began with a beautiful snow storm and another visit from the moose! We can only hope that is a tradition that lasts!
Eliza sat by the windows and wrote in her journal about the magical moment as the snow fell, Charity sang a beautiful Christmas song at the piano, Isaac organized the nativity scene for the last time and the cute cousins bonded!
All preparations were made for what we have always call “The Jerusalem Supper”. At about 6 p.m. we transform into the family and friends of Mary as they send she and Joseph off to Bethlehem for the long journey on the donkey.Elizabeth and Zacharias are there as well as Mary’s parents. Joseph and Mary sit by each other at the table and guests are invited to ask questions, worry for them and wish them well on their journey.
We are costumed and our food is like (somewhat) what they would have eaten in the time of Jesus….fish, unleavened bread, grapes, dates, figs, cheese, fish and “wine”. Our Joseph this year (Isaac) was particularly talkative and gave us details about his trade as a carpenter. Mary (Eliza) was quiet and courageous about her epic journey. No electric lights allowed (well except for the Christmas tree. I’m sure they would have had one of those in Nazareth).
The thoughtful dinner was followed by the traditional nativity scene. Jared is the donkey here but he looks more like a BIG sheep!
Mary and Joseph particularly adored the baby!
With thenativity narration by Ashton and a reading from Luke 2 by Grandfather we felt the true meaning of Christmas on the Eve of our Savior’s birth.
After that the lights went on, everyone opened new Christmas pajamas and we sent very excited children off to try to sleep! Christmas morning coming next.
1 comment:
Oh I love it, Mom. So fun to see the pics. Love yoU!
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