The stockings were hung, presents placed and our little ones tucked into bed. We were all anxious for Christmas morning...
I tried desperately to capture their reactions as they walked downstairs...can't you almost feel the excitement and anticipation?
Stockings were first
Usually my very favorite in the way of gifts. I love little things and think it's so much fun to challenge myself to find meaningful gifts that will fit in a stocking. Of course, there's the usual socks and underwear but more often than not there are a few very special items, as well.
Kennedy got a cute new bunny hat - although it's on backwards here :)
A quick picture before we dig into the gifts under the tree.
Mommy and Daddy needed a quick cup of coffee!
Santa granted her request and brought the green princess, Tiana. She loved it!
Merry Christmas, sweet Kennedy!
Who would have known? The most excited Carter got was for his new Oregon boots and duck pillow pet. Funny stuff.
After opening presents from Santa and Mom & Dad, we had our traditional delicious breakfast of cinnamon rolls and fruit. So good! Then we freshened up and headed off to Christmas morning service at church. I loved the opportunity to attend church on Christmas morning. In between the craziness of material presents, it was a blessing to be reminded of the true gift of Christmas...to sing carols and pray and give thanks for God's greatest gift - His son, Jesus Christ. Since Christmas fell on a Sunday this year, our church had one, casual service where the kids were able to participate. They all arrived in pajamas and were able to sit up at the front of the sanctuary for the majority of the service. Carter and Kennedy loved it and I couldn't believe how much Kennedy talked - we could hear her all the way towards the back. She even sang "Away in a Manger", by herself, without any prompting...and not at the most appropriate time. It was hilarious! We received comments from a few folks after church that it was the most they'd ever heard her talk...must have been the excitement of Christmas!
Nana and Pops arrived around lunch time and the kids were so excited to see them.
Another round of presents followed...
Carter got a Razor and it was a big deal!
It was Christmas, after all, a few laps around the house on his new gift seemed appropriate.
Some new shades
Ah the pillow pets - who knew these would be such a big hit? Kennedy cried when Carter opened his, because she was so devastated not to have one too. It took a minute for her to open her last gift...
And then all was right in the world again!
We hosted dinner on Christmas and it went so well. I loved having a home full of family, love, laughter and crazy kiddos. It's exactly as Christmas should be, at least in my mind. I feel so blessed to have a large family on Kyle's side - holidays are always more fun and lively with lots of family to share with.
Nana and Pops with Kennedy and Carer
The girls
Kennedy and Sloane
The boys
Bennett, Carter and Brady
Papa and Grandma and the "five" - it was impossible to get a picture where everyone was looking. This was the best we could do!
Enjoying Kennedy's new ladybug umbrella with Papa and B
Another attempt at a pj picture with all five cousins.
Afraid it just wasn't meant to be this year!
Four out of five isn't so bad, right?
And the night ended with a little Kung Fu...
~Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night ~
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