Christmas time is (was) here

As Christmas drew near there began to be some talk among the junior members of the Kepsel household as to how exactly Santa would enter the home. Being as there was no fireplace, the children were worried that he may have to rely completely on his magic. Believing as they did in the ultimate abilities he possessed, they knew it would all work out for the best in the end. But still they worried. 

It was not long before they devised a way to help him, using a little magic of their own.
Paper was cut, crayons furnished, and a fireplace began to take shape.

The event was not without certain catastrophes (some in the form of "dis is the wong color!") but they were overcome.

Emmy was totally stoked about this project and went at it with super girl enthusiasm!

It's beginning to look a lot like a fireplace!

It was soon finished, and Christmas Eve arrived.

As did the annual reenactment of the Nativity. Claire was privileged to be Mary this year, which was a big step for both she and Emmy. And doesn't she hold her baby weight well?

Joseph was busting out moves, because this kid seriously can't help it.

The shepherds were guarding their flock by night.

The genetically confused donkey/giraffe/piglet gently carried Mary to Bethlehem.

Papa was the narrator, and he did a lurvely job.

Almost there, guys!
Claire was seriously adorbs. She was beaming the whole evening.

Emmy threw out her arms, and when Papa started reading the Angel's tidings she stopped him with a "I can do this part!" at which point she recited the verses almost perfectly. That surprised most of us, but I guess she's heard the story enough times to know it by now. Made me happy all over.

We do try somewhat to be reverentish while we do this, but there are so many kids and somewhat irreverent adults around that it ends up being more exciting than quiet. But despite that, the quiet of the truthfulness of the story remains and somehow shines through and leaves us all feeling warm and happy.

These two wise ladies bore gifts.

And after a little persuasion laid them down.

Doesn't she look super wise?

The donkeygiraffepiglet made friends with the sheep, and things in the stable were as happy as can be.

This might be my favorite part of Christmas. With so many favorite parts it's hard to just pick one, but this just might be it.

Then Christmas Pajamas magically appeared on the stairs and were quickly donned.

You look great, kiddos! Now off to your visions of sugar plums. I love you, good night!