Christmas Eve

We had a lot of fun this Christmas. The kids are now at an age where things are starting to be really magical. Grammy and Papop were even able to join us for all the festivities which made it extra special. We started the night at 4:00 with the fabulous church service at Hill Country where they actually made it snow. Granted, it was soap bubbles, but it was pretty cool to see snow in Texas. (OK, so it really did flurry a bit, but I still think the church snow was a definite highlight.) On a side, I had a brilliant idea this year to bring our own little LED votives instead of trying to keep the kids from lighting things on fire with the little church candles. I highly recommend other Mommies stealing that idea.

After that, we came home, started the Christmas Tea Ring dough, and quickly changed into our Christmas jammies and set out the cookies for Santa. Of course, we had to sample them ourselves first. ;)


Then it was bundle up and head out to look at our neighborhood Christmas lights.
I hope to never forget the sound of his precious little voice saying, "oooh, peeEE Lia!" (I'm guessing "pretty lights!??" Echoed by Suzy's "Frosty! Frosty! Happy Birthday Jesus!"
Then Papop read us the Night Before Christmas book.
and a few more fun Christmas books.
Andy was so cute reading the First Nativity book under the tree. I think this might be another one of my favorite photos. He's such a sweet little guy. I am so blessed to be his Mommy.
Of course, since he missed the first reading, that meant Papop had to read The Night Before Christmas.... again.
Then, the stockings were hung by the chimney with care.

And later filled by Santa.
A few of the nativities were straightened up. I love how Suzy arranged them this year.
The little people seem to be rushing the stage of some big mosh band.
Then it was prayers and songs and off to bed to await the bearded man himself....
He did not disappoint. Thanks to Dr. Awesome, a pink potty and baby catheter were obtained.
Andy? Well, he got a fire truck.
Wrapped in the obligatory "purple paper".

In case you missed the story a few years ago, when Suzy first met Santa, I told her he would give her presents. He asked her what she wanted when it was her turn and she pointed to a purple wrapped box on display and said, "That one". From that point on, she believes Santa gifts are always wrapped in purple. I have to stock up at Easter time. Do you have any idea how hard it is to find purple paper at Christmas time? ;)