The Exciting Parts of Christmas

After experiencing the difficulties that precede Christmas, last week, we've had the joy of experiencing the wonderful things that come with it.  And all before Christmas Day itself!

We've had our Christmas celebration with one side of the family, including a 'family camp'.  Two full days of relaxing together and watching cousins play together happily, no matter whether they're 20 years old or four years old.  The X-Box is an amazing equaliser of ages!

About half the family tripped into Costco yesterday, as if we needed to further entertain ourselves.  We all got into our cars after a couple of hours declaring that to have been a fun outing.  Of course it included a very cost efficient lunch at the end, after a tour around the taste testing tables throughout the store, so of course, the non-shoppers amongst the children were placated throughout the trip.  I found my much-desired Cashew Clusters as well as a few other well-priced items.

And then last night, our family had our family Christmas present.  We went to see Mary Poppins.  What an amazing show.  Mr Busy had been quite dubious about swapping full-on Christmas for a seat at the theatre.  About half way through the first half he decided it was worth it.  When I inquired after their favourite parts, they each declared the whole thing magnificent and unable to pick out one bit.  Personally, the 'Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious' moment was my favourite.  A very intricate choreography accompanied the song and was 'practically perfectly' executed.  Of course, the whole thing was great and scattered with plenty of humour.  Verity Hunt-Ballard did a grand job of playing Mary Poppins and Matt Lee was the perfect Bert.  They did the roles justice and then some.

I think the kids will opt for a 'theatre Christmas' in the future if there is an opportunity to see something they'll enjoy.  It was a truly magical evening that was worth every cent.  Mr Busy is wandering about the house gently chanting "Mary Poppins" in a perfect English accent!

Now we're ready to rest.  And prepare for a simple Christmas at home.  Beautiful food, time together.  I found free sheet music for Amy Grant's 'Breath of Heaven'.  So whenever I need a little bit of focus for the true heart and reason for Christmas, I have it right there at my piano.