This year's Christmas party on December 16 was planned by Drew & Jenny Smith. Unfortunately due to a sudden family illness, they had to go out of town. Fortunately, they had done most of the planning, and everything fell into place. Luckily also for our branch, the Kentlands Ward held their Christmas party on the night before and left all of the decorations and tables and chairs for us to utilize for our party.
Our very own President Charles Huang and his wife, Sara, served as the emcees for the evening. With very little preparation, they were still able to guide us through the program with humor and wit. The food was plenty with much to spare, and everything was delicious. After the dinner, the program began with the story of the Nativity led by Sister Abbey Zhao, narrated by Sister Sophy Fugal, and acted out by the Primary children and youth. Our three missionaries, Elders Anderson, Chang, and Packer favored us with "Hark, The Herald Angels Sing." Then the Relief Society sisters sang a beautiful chorus of "O Holy Night," followed by the Branch Chorus singing "Angels' Carol." Sister Li-Fang Tsai led the audience in a line dance beating to the music of "A Very Merry Rockin' Good Christmas."
At the close, the children, big and small, were delighted to visit with Santa Clause and Mrs. Clause. Worn by many years of bringing Christmas cheer to children, Santa though not very mobile invited everyone to sit on his lap and take photos. We are all very grateful to Santa and Mrs. Clause for making the trip from afar to bring joy to everyone. This year, the new earlier starting time of 5pm allowed for an earlier close, so that everyone could go home and rest and prepare for Sunday. A big thanks to Drew & Jenny Smith for their excellent planning, President & Sister Huang for their synchronized emceeing, Mr. & Mrs. Clause for bringing Christmas cheer to all of us, and all the brothers and sisters that made this party another successful one. Merry Christmas to all!
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