The Magic of Christmas Eve

Jeff and I decided this year that even as adults there is something really magic about Christmas Eve. The excitement and anticipation was really evident in our home and hearts. Braxton was so fun this year. For the first time he was actually into the whole thing and was really anxious about Santa coming to his house. The kids got to open their Christmas Eve present before bed. Matching monkey pj's. After they put them on Jeff read the Christmas Story in Luke and then "The night before Christmas." Then we got to call Jeff's brother in Japan and wish him a Merry Christmas.

After Adelle was asleep Braxton and I decorated the last of the Christmas cookies to leave out for Santa.
Braxton, who usually does not look forward to bedtime, was anxious for bed. He was so funny. We were in his room and he kept saying that he heard something and finally during his last story he goes, "I think we should just go to bed and not finish the story." He knew that the sooner he was asleep the sooner Santa would come. Too bad this only happens once a year:)
Then the fun began. Jeff started building bikes and doll strollers and I went on a wrapping spree. I don't think I've ever been so nervous. Braxton is known to get out of bed if we are watching a movie or something and he will just sneak up on us out of nowhere. We were paranoid to say the least. We kept watching his door and every noise we would both stop and be silent. It was pretty pathetic actually but fun non the less.

This was the finished product. It was beautiful. Everything was in order and ready for the kids to wake up too. There really was something magic about the whole thing.

Christmas morning we woke up around 8:00am to discover the kids were still asleep! We laid there deciding whether or not to wake them. Adelle woke up shortly after us and we sent her in to wake up "brover." We stayed in bed and listened to this:
"Sis, we have to go to sleep or else Santa won't come."
When we told Braxton it was morning he stream lined to the front room with Adelle close behind. Then the fun began. Both the kids were thrilled with their Santa gifts. Braxton a hot-wheels bike that revs and helmet and Adelle a talking baby with a high chair, stroller, and crib. So perfect.
So fun.
Then we got to go to my mom and dad's for the traditional, amazing, Christmas brunch and to spend time with family. We got to call my brother Brent who is in Spain on a mission. It was so great to talk to him and he turned all our tears to laughter when he busted out "Felis Navidad" on speaker phone.
Then it off to my aunt Rebecca's...more good food and lots of family. We are so blessed.
The joy of Christmas is so real and so evident in the eyes of a child. I hope you all had a very Merry Christmas.