Christmas

After much anticipation, Christmas Eve finally arrived.

Each girl got to open a present Christmas Eve.

I'm not one to purposefully match my kids; but they sure do love it. They go out of their way to match, or to come close, so for Christmas we knew they would like matching PJs.

We got Miracle on 34th street to watch for Christmas Eve. Then we read the Christmas Story from Luke, another story, and off to bed.

I don't know how long it will be until we have another 8:30 Christmas morning. I was up, showered, bed made, and starting to get really antsy when the girls finally got up.

Santa rescued some gently used toys that some child had outgrown and brought them here where they would be loved again. Eight full Little People playsets, along with some extras. I understand he got a really great deal.

Once we got through the stockings and investigated a little bit with the little people, we enjoyed pull apart bread and fruit for breakfast.

Thanks very much to the Milne's for the tutus and bows. They went over very very well.

We started into the presents with Grandpa and Linda in St. Louis joining us to exchange gifts via web chat.

And then the rest.

Our generous friends and relatives sent us so many lovely things.

Clint's brother drew us, and their family sent us the Little People Nativity. Something I've wanted my kids to have since Lizzy was born. I like the idea of hands-on Christmas, and for children, most Nativity sets just aren't intended for hands-on.

Emma spent a good portion of the gift time refusing all presents and simply playing with her new toys.

We enjoyed Christmas very much. I love the magic of Christmas, and it's gotten more fun each year since we added children. I really think I have more fun than they do.