An evolution of a tradition.

Once upon a time, a family started a Tradition. (No, it wasn't to over tinsel the tree or dress their kids in funky clothing). It was to gather on Christmas Eve. To celebrate the birth of Our Savior with the ones we love. And take a photo of the Grandkids by the over tinseled tree.

Christmas Eve 1974

Thanks to these people...


Christmas Eve 2002 (these are the people responsible for dressing the children in the previous photo)

The tradition was never lost. Like clockwork, we ALL go to Aunt Doris' house every year. No matter where she has lived (except didn't she live out of state one year? What did we do that year?). We have been known to cram ourselves into various rooms of a small condo, just to be together.

Our traditions have grown and changed over the years.

It used to be a time of little kids exchanging gifts and getting home to wait for Santa!

Then it became a time of drinking games and going to church at 11pm (there were gifts, but it seemed to be gift card exchanging).

We cousins all saw life changing when someone introduced the first of the next generation to the mix and many, many more have been added since.  


Great Grandma with the ones she loved most!

 Now, we go to church at 5pm, have only 1 or 2 shots (well, some of us...) and let our kids dress themselves.


The cousins 2011 - minus 4

We still exchange gifts, but we added a new twist...Adult White Elephant (and this year Teenager White Elephant)

A very excited 2010 recipient of the injured gingerbread men cookie cutters - with "blood" frosting

 To be a part of this amazing Tradition is as precious as the gift of the Birth of Christ. I am eternally grateful that my family gathers each year for this celebration! 

I am beside myself BLESSED for these two extremely amazing people, who once led this amazing family and actually still do....but from Heaven.



Christmas Eve 2000


Grandpa and Grandma - thank you for what you gave us. Thank you for loving your Kids, Grand Kids and Great Grand Kids (the ones you knew and the ones you are watching over)! I think of you each every. single. day. Without fail. Love you both for eternity!