For the Record: The Twenty Fourteen Winter Holidays Part IV - The First of Six Gatherings - Domani’s Pageant

For the Record:
The Twenty Fourteen Winter Holidays
Part IV - The Six Gatherings
         The First:      December 21 - Domani’s Christmas Pageant
         The Second: December 24 - Christmas Eve at Elaine and Al’s
         The Third:    December 26 - The Day After Christmas Christmas Turkey Dinner
         The Fourth:  December 26, 27, 28 -  Bella Spends Time With Us
         The Fifth:      December 28 - The All Get together in Franklin Park
         The Sixth:      January 1,2 - Jimmy, Tara, Kenny and Ty Stay Over 

The First:
December 21 - Domani in the Christmas Pageant

"Just wanted to let you know that Domani will be in our Church's Christmas Pageant next Sunday, December 21. It's also a week when the Praise Band will be playing so Karen, Chris and I will be singing/playing too. The service starts at 11am if you are interested in coming. Domani is very excited and has been practicing his songs for weeks!”

When I got this e-mail from Anne I remember thinking, “Aww how cute.”  Of course we wanted to attend.  
We were running a little late that day.  Most of the congregation were already in their seats when we got to the church.  Anne was standing near the front of the church looking out for us.  She waved us to the front.  She had saved us a seat in the first row.  As we filed into the pew, Domani spotted us and greeted us with a big smile and a not so subtle stage whisper, “Grandma! Pop-pop!”  
And he was very excited.  His four year old body was in constant motion.  Once the music started, I could only hear bits and pieces of what he wanted to let me know.  By the serious look on his face, I imagined that what he was saying was very important. 
Soon it was time for him to join the rest of the children to begin the pageant. 
The production was quite impressive.  There were songs, and readings along with props and costume changes right before our very eyes.  

Although, I have to admit, my eyes were pretty much on Domani most of the time.  He did not disappoint.  His interpretation of how to use some of the props was quite unique. 
After the service Ross and I, Anne and Domani and Grandpa Ken went to lunch at the Jamesburg Diner. 
As I look back on this day, I remember a feeling of taking a slow deep breath. Ahhh.  It was a much needed respite away from the hectic and frenetic stress that has disturbingly become standard during these Winter Holidays.

Domani is the healing salve softening the jagged edges of my heart.

Angelic Domani