Then came the program. There was a mini train on the stage that took a few kids to Bethlehem. (The presentation was “The Polar Express to Bethlehem”). After the train stopped along the way to see the shepherds and the Angel, it made a stop right outside the manger. Gayla and I somehow were persuaded to be Mary and Joseph.

In addition to just sitting and looking humble, we got to sing a song too. Gayla’s mother played the piano for us. We went up to the mics and started to sing. After the first line or so, Tim came running out on the stage. I didn’t see him at first but Gayla did. He looked at me, the circled around behind and came up on Gayla’s left side. He kept trying to give Gayla the wrapper to his candy cane. I would have kept a straight face if Gayla didn’t start laughing (Well, at least I think I could have). Gayla started to chuckle a little bit and then I missed a couple notes too. It took about a page of music before someone finally grabbed him off the stage. We maintained composure for the most part after that but there were still a couple places where I started to smile a bit.

Anyhow, we had a great time and I think things went just fine in spite of Tim’s comic relief. I still have no idea how Tim made it past the stage doors and the stage crew and out onto the stage though.