Monday, December 17, 2007

The Bethlehem Inn Back Story

We (our little family of four accompanied by Ryan's parents) arrived just as the dinner was being served. The Inn was overflowing with people but we were told not to worry, there would be room for us at the Inn. So off we went to the "market" to "buy" our garb for this festive event, so that we could look the part as we stepped back in time for this Christmas experience. As we rummaged through the robes, one of the cast asked if we wouldn't mind if Alyssa played to role of baby Jesus. Sure, why not? They would come to get her when it was time.

Once we were dressed, we were escorted to the table prepared for us, right next to the stage. Alyssa sat with us through dinner, a bit fussy, so we could only guess how she would be when she was called upon for her starring role. Hannah happily dressed as "Momma Mary" as she would call herself later, munched on the food served as she looked around, watching as the performance unfolded around us.

Just before the shepherds came in looking for the baby in the manger, Alyssa was handed off to Marija who was to play Mary. The announcement was made that baby Jesus was born, and the angels and shepherds all came on stage to announce his birth singing familiar songs. It was show time for Alyssa who watched the performance from behind the chorus of kiddos. She was quiet and attentive the whole time, even when passed off to Joseph (she does get heavy after awhile!)

As the performance went on, Hannah slowly sank further and further into the lap she was sitting in tired from a long day of being out and about... until, that is, they brought out a birthday cake for baby Jesus. Her eyes got real big as she cried out softly, "Cake!"

It was an amazing retelling of the Christmas story. Alyssa impressed many with her sweet portrayal of the Christ child. And Hannah continues to call Alyssa, "Baby Jesus" and herself, "Momma Mary." Mommy also gets to be "Momma Mary" and daddy is often called "Joseph."

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