Every year, the Clark family holds an annual Christmas party. As our family has grown larger over the years,
we now need to hold these gatherings at our church.
We shared funny family stories and had a talent show,
where the kids performed lip-syncs, skits, and dances.
It’s always hilarious.
My family is just genuinely hilarious.
Our night wouldn't be complete without Elvin, Santa's favorite elf, stopping by to bring the children their first gifts for Christmas.
Elvin is a Clark family tradition that has been around for years.
The first Elvin was played by my Dad even before I was born.
My dad was a young missionary in Norway 50 years ago
when he brought home traditional Norwegian clothing,
including reindeer shoes, and came up with the idea of Elvin.
He played Elvin for his younger brothers and sisters,
his own children, and his grandchildren for a few years.
Just recently, my brothers took over the role.
Clark, my red-headed nephew, was our first red-headed Elvin this year!
It was amazing!
Other classic Elvin appearances:
Speaking of redheads, we got all the red-headed cousins together for a photo.
Jane, Charlotte, Emma, Clark, Olivia, and Vance.
(All relatives of the famous Danish red-headed Peter Nielson, I might add).
Most of the night, I held my brother Jesse's new baby, June--
but I call her "Junnie" for obvious reasons,
and I secretly wished she were mine.
Before the end of the party, I arranged a photo from oldest to youngest.
In total, 43 family members and 2 adopted through marriage appear in the photo.
Two nephews were absent as they are currently serving missions.
Photo 1:
Photo 2:
And finally, photo 3:
Getting them together required a lot of yelling, but I was up for the job.
It took me only 500 minutes, but it was worth it.
It was a fantastic night and another reminder that I am so proud of
my big family. I am so grateful for healthy family members and thankful for
our deep love and belief in God, whose plan for families
is full of promise and hope.
