Friday, December 19, 2008

Full day of Christmas fun

There's a lot going on around here these days, and today was an especially full day. I'm tired, but it's a good kind of tired...the kind that comes after fun!
The activity that started everything off this morning was the third annual Polar Express party for the first grade class. This is always one of my favorite events with the first graders, and this year was no exception. The kids wore their pjs, John dressed as the conductor to punch their tickets, and then we listened to the story. The moms who volunteered to plan the party went all out, providing delicious hot chocolate (with candy canes to stir it, of course) and some fantastic snacks, including a make-your-own popcorn treat. Yum!

Ethan gets his ticket punched, so he can board the Polar Express.

The chairs were in rows as usual (like they would be on a train). They listened very attentively to the story.
The kids enjoyed making their popcorn treats. Of course, with popcorn covered with chocolate, and sprinkles, marshmallows, chopped candy bars, and nuts to add to it, what was not to like?


Hot chocolate just tastes better when stirred with a candy cane!

The afternoon event was the Christmas party at Ocracoke Child Care. Connor had fun, even though his mommy and I made (and then ate) all of the treats on his behalf!

Caroling was the evening activity. A large group of enthusiastic singers set out from the Methodist Church shortly after 5 PM and walked all over the village, singing to island elders, disabled residents, and others who are unable to attend the concerts, church services, and other activities which abound during the Christmas season. It was an incredible blessing to see the smiles on the faces of our numerous small but appreciative audiences. After the caroling, we returned to the church and were treated to a wonderful chili supper.

Pastor Joyce, Dave Frum and Deanna Locke sing enthusiastically.
One of the things I enjoyed about caroling was walking all over the village and seeing the festively decorated houses, lit up in celebration of the season. Here's a particularly "Ocracoke-y" example.

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