[Image] The kids will be in a Nativity play on Christmas Eve, playing an angel and King Herod. We had a dress rehearsal the other day, which is one of my favorite times to take photos because I don't have to stay in my seat. The play begins with Gabriel announcing to Mary and then Joseph what is to come. Then they sing O Come Emmanuel (with the help of the Innkeeper).

Meanwhile, the Wise Men were busy finding wise things on their smartphones. Ha, ha.
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 The kids were really into singing. Desert Girl added a little stretching. She has a really hard time sitting still for 20 minutes. I'll just pretend she's fluttering around like an angel.
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The little kids always add some comedic relief to the play. Thank goodness they have the older kids to hold it all together. [Image]
Of course, sometimes the older kids have their fun too. Mary decides her feet are sore, so she puts them up on the makeshift manger. I remember putting my feet up a lot when I was pregnant.
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Later, Joseph and Mary had a little tussle over who got to hold the improvised Baby Jesus. It was funny to watch. [Image]
My angel! [Image]
The shepherds hung out on their hill, tending their sheep. Actually all their sheep were missing (the cast is a little small due to families being out of town), so they just played with their imaginary sheep.
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And tried out some wrestling moves. The angels didn't approve.
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Meanwhile, King Herod waited patiently on his throne, running shoes ready to make a mad dash if need be.
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The three Wise Men came to visit him and find out where the newborn King was.
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Later, King Herod died.
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And the play ends with Joy to the World. It is so joyous to see the kids better understand the Nativity play and the true meaning of Christmas.
[Image] We'll see what interesting expressions transpire on Christmas Eve as they do the play with a big audience and lights and microphones. It's always good for a few chuckles. Thanks so much to Sharon for organizing it and directing the aspiring actors.

Wishing you a joyous Christmas!