games, traditions & all-around craziness (Christmas Eve)

 Looks peaceful doesn't it? Don't be fooled.

My family is loud. Now I'm not talking about loud, like "oh, yeah I know a family like that." I mean loud to the point where you can make out words when you're standing outside of the house. Everyone is shouting over each other to be heard, laughing, complaining or trying to get someone's attention.

16+ people. All at the same time. 

Most of the time I love it. It makes me feel at home. But usually people usually have one of two reactions. Laughing uncontrollably or covering their eyes and praying for it all to stop.

Exhibit A:

I clearly am enjoying myself and my sister looks like she needs an Advil. 

So, we're rowdy, excitable and competitive but we're a family and Christmas Eve holds some pretty important traditions. Since as far back as I can remember we've been getting together for Christmas Eve. It used to be at my Grandmaman's every year but since she moved to a smaller apartment, one of my uncle/aunts & my parents have been switching off each year. Here's how the night usually pans out.

Around 6-7pm those who went to church arrive & we put out some snacks. We have everything from veggies to pizza dip to cookies and sweets. While people are eating we chat & catch up with those who we haven't seen in a while and then the games begin.

We've played dozens of games over the years, not board games, but more of the 'social games'. People usually try to pick up a new game or two to play with the family come Christmas eve. Some of our favorites have been the Dice Game, Bag Game, Toonie up the Butt, Oranges & Pantyhose, 4 on the Couch & Sitting on Laps. There are so many more though. This year a big favorite was the Mafia game, taught by my cousin and her husband, Joelle & Alec. 

Once we've played a few we do a dollar store and a $10 gift exchange. There are always some interesting gifts. This year the car mats & alcohol were the most popular I'd say. French people love their wine! Haha.

After the gift exchange there's more games until midnight. At midnight everyone hugs & wishes each other a Merry Christmas/Joyeux Noel and then we have a buffet of hot food including Pate (meatpie), pizza rolls, bread, appetizers and lots more. In French tradition this is called the Reveillon. (Links to a very basic Wiki description.)

Have a look:

Some of the family from 2008.

Another 2008 shot. Dad's poem.

Christmas Dinner 2009.

Christmas Eve 2010

Thanks for visiting the blog. I hope you all enjoy the rest of your holidays!