My 98 yr. old mother LOVES to sing, and even remembers songs she learned as a child in 4-H. A friend told me about a tradition her family has and I thought it'd be a fun thing to add to our family's Christmas Eve gathering.

Each item from "The 12 Days of Christmas" was written on a piece of paper (with enough blank ones so each of the 28 kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids present) could draw one out of the bowl. I reserved the "and a partridge in a pear tree" for Mom so the focus would always be drawn back to her.

Now there are some fuddy-duddies in my family who did NOT want to participate, and they were very reluctant to draw a piece of paper, but eventually did, some being so very relieved they drew a blank one.

Then we started the song with everyone singing the intro each time... "On the __ Day of Christmas my true love gave to me"... then the one with the appropriate day sang their part. Because Mom has dementia, I coaxed her to sing her part, but then she chimed right in.

On the last time through, each one had to act out their specific object. It was an absolute riot, especially when the more bashful or reluctant ones did their little act. Everyone, young and old alike, even the fuddy-duddies, got into the spirit and had a delightful time, laughing at and with each other, especially at the looks on their faces as they sang and were trying to remember when they were supposed to come in on their part and watching Granny sing her part. What a hoot and one of the most memorable Christmas gatherings we've ever had!

Donna