Christmas Eve 2013.

It feels like Christmas was months ago but since it was only a few weeks ago I don't feel so bad finally blogging about it now. December is always (and will forever be) a crazy month at our house.  Besides the usual Christmas festivities we have 2 birthdays to celebrate and I am determined to make each celebration extra special.  I think Christmas Eve might be one of my favorite days though.  All the anticipation is built, presents are wrapped, food is made and the party can begin! 

We had my family come up on Christmas Eve to celebrate.  It started with a wonderful service at our church, designed specifically for young children.  I feel so blessed to have found a new church we love and can be involved in.  It has made such a difference transitioning to a new city and the service was one of my favorite memories from this year.  It was short, involved lots of kids, simple songs and scripture and a few falling decorations just to keep it entertaining.  But, it was perfect and really set the mood for the night.

 Once we got home and dinner was in the oven I put a few presents under the tree, just to tease the kids a bit.  They were just a little excited.

 Both kids had a lot of fun with my parents.

 And we loved having Matthew and Joy at the house too!

 After dinner we had the kids change into their Christmas pi's and then they got to open presents from Uncle Matt and Aunt Joy.

Joy had overheard Carter talking about his new love for Rescuebots during Lucy's birthday party.  They definitely won Aunt and Uncle of the Year for buying not one, but 4 new Rescuebots for Carter.  By far, his favorite Christmas present!  Santa didn't really need to visit our house after that. 

 Lucy just loves her new backpack!

 And another selfie…just for good measure.

 We somehow convinced the kids to get ready for bed, had Carter write his letter to Santa and put out the milk and cookies.  Christmas Eve was over and we were ready for the next day.

 Carter told me what to write this year.  His very first letter to Santa.

 And the treats!  Carter wasn't sure if Santa would like nonfat milk or almond milk so we left both.  He was pretty happy to see Santa's note in the morning that he enjoyed the almond milk.  :)