Then in the evening, the elves turned into shepherds as we got a last-minute call-up to take part in the Live Crib! It was dark and getting cold as our turn came. A crescent moon shone in the sky and the choir from our local church sang carols as we came out of the camper van in our borrowed costumes. Lee looked the part dressed as Joseph with a stripey headdress and staff. The less said about Mary the better, but I don't think there's been a less dignified portrayal of Our Lady! As for the baby Jesus! Well..... our little four-week old was the picture of tranquility as she lay in the manger. She was so quiet and serene as the choir sang Silent Night and she actually smiled at the end! It was really magical! The boys were delighted to meet the babba oo (calf), mummy ba (ewe) with her twin lambs and the little donkey that shared the stable with us for those special few minutes and Roo took his role as chief shepherd quite seriously. I was so proud of my little brood that I cared nothing about the fact that my veil was falling off and making me look a complete Charlie in front of everyone. My family are the best gift that I have ever received. Thank you Lord for them!
