Merriest Christmas

We had the best Christmas this year with our little family. The kids were at the perfect ages to really find the magic in the day.

I had started to feel sick right after school wrapped up, but luckily after sleeping and staying in bed for almost 36 hours, I felt back to normal on Christmas Eve. I really think it was pure exhaustion from the busy week of parties, performances, and last minute shopping.

We went to the early Christmas Eve service this year. I look forward to this tradition every year. Bonus points that the church offers the nursery for Jacob, so we can really pay attention. :) The only distraction during the service was Tuttle holding his candle too close to the mom's hair in front of him. I told her afterwards that she received an early Christmas present this year since she left with all her hair!

We picked up pizza on the way home to eat before Grandaddy's reading of the Christmas story and The Night Before Christmas. We have resorted to Facetime the last few years since we only get together on Christmas Day now. 

Finally the kids decorated cookies for Santa and spread out some reindeer food in the front yard before heading to bed. Maggie and Tuttle were both eager to go to sleep quickly, so Santa could come!

The kids slept until about 7:45am this next morning and woke up to all their Christmas wishes come true! They must have been extra good this year!

After a few hours of playing, we got dressed to head to Athens for our family lunch and White Elephant gift exchange. Tuttle and Maggie both LOVED their presents from the game. Maggie stole a silver vanity set with comb, brush, mirror, and tray while Tuttle went home with a vintage camera from Uncle Luke.

Our Christmas Day was already filled with fun, but we still had Grandmommy and Grandaddy's house to visit! Everyone was ready for pajamas, snuggling, and a festive drink, so I did not take many pictures. The kids were spoiled with surprises including a John Deere Gator for Jacob, a new American Girl for Maggie, and an electric scooter for Tuttle. I received a new camera lens!

Everyone had such a great day! We are so blessed this holiday season. Merry Christmas to all our friends and family! And most importantly, Happy Birthday, Jesus!