Beautiful: Christmas Eve Family Traditions

Taffy Pull

Naphtali and Jemma boiled the molasses taffy and got it just right the first time. The original recipe came from Little House books and has now been practiced year after year.

Shane regathering the hot mass after it had stuck to his fingers.

Jemma and Haddi have practiced the art of stretching and pulling until it is honey colored.

Johannes, Nathanael, and Zeb hard at work with candy making!

Mom polishing a utensil for serving at the Christmas Eve Dinner buffet.

Always a Christmas Eve dinner with traditional English favorites, roast beef, horseradish sauce, buttered petite peas, creamy rich twice baked potatoes, heirloom rice pilaf, and green leaf salad with festive mandarins and pecans.

Youngest, Baby Gil, in the High Chair

Good cheer as we reside at the table before filling our plates.

Littles growing up, dressed in their finest, and seated at their own table.

Grammy and Gil framed by the warmth of candle and fine wine.

After dinner, we retired to the Living Room with the piano. All gathered round, Nathanael played the piano; Thad and Johannes played carols on their violins; Zeb played his quarter size violin; Becca and Jed played and sang an original prayerful song; Grandpa read the the Christmas story from Matthew having us remain attentive listening for the angel messengers; and Jesse and Megan with children harmonized,

All is Well

All is well all is well

Angels and men rejoice

For tonight darkness fell

Into the dawn of love's light

Sing Alleluia

All is well all is well

Let there be peace on earth

Christ's come go and tell

That He is in the manger

Sing Alleluia

All is well all is well

Lift up your voices and sing

Born is now Emmanuel

Born is our Lord and Savior

Sing Alleluia

All is well

Born is now Emmanuel

Born is our Lord and Savior

Sing Alleluia

All is well

Dessert served:

Grasshopper Creme De Menthe Pie from the freezer was cut and topped with hot Black Hawk Fudge. The tins were opened of Russian Teacakes, Lemon Snow drops, and Frosted Sugar Cookies

Pajamas under the tree from Grammy and Grandpa were opened and donned with haste.