We’ve developed a sort-of Christmas Eve tradition.
Our church service begins at 5:00 PM and at this time of year, the sun sets at about 4:40 PM, so we go to the beach to watch the sunset before heading to church (with sand in our shoes). It’s kind of weird (no chestnuts or open fires, no sleigh bells or snowman or winter wonderlands) but wonderful.
Now, the sky is dark and the children are sleeping or feigning sleep.
Now it’s time to fill stockings and arrange a few more gifts under the tree.
Now it’s time to pause for a moment in recognition of the blessed life we have.
Merry Christmas!
Actual Unretouched Photo 