Believe

The theme for our ward Christmas Party this year was based on the story Polar Express.
The activity committee did a fabulous job (as always) of decorating and creating a wonderful atmosphere. Since our ward split a couple weeks ago, this was to be the last time ALL the "old" Elk Ridge Ward was together.

To follow along with the theme of the night, they asked Parker to play his saxophone and act as a street musician outside a train station. At first he wasn't sure if he was up to doing it, but once Miranda promised to sit with him, he agreed. They both dressed up in their newsie hats and sat at the entrance to the gym. They both got into their role well.. I even sacrificed a pair of my walking gloves for Miranda to look the partIt was fun to sit and watch the ward members walk in and see and hear Parker playing. A lot of them stood and listened for a minute before walking in.
Here's a little snippit of Parker playing (remember to pause the playlist on the sidebar)

Bradley from our ward, joined in with his violin. The violin and saxophone don't really go together too well, so they took turns playing songs. Once the dinner had started, Parker was able to leave his post and enjoy the food and program.
Our ward has started a Brass band and they performed a few songs at the beginning of the show. They sounded really good. They have gone around performing at various old folks homes and shelters for Christmas. They even invited Parker (and Ryan) to join in January.

As I mentioned before, the night was based on Polar Express. So the play was about a young boy who boarded the "Elk Ridge Express" and traveled to the past to the first Christmas.
They had various kids and ward members involved. But the show stopper was the three Wise Men. Such regal, handsome men... our Bishopric.
Ryan was such a good sport and went with the flow... costume and all!
Since I'm not on the committee, I was able to relax, and sit with my family and enjoy the evening. I am so grateful for this wonderful time of the year when we are reminded of the things that matter the most!