Christmas Eve

T'was the day before Christmas and we were all set to drive to Mtn. Home to see our family.

But before leaving for Mtn. Home today we did a few of our favorite Christmas Eve traditions. We managed to fill our manger pretty full of straw and we placed our baby Jesus in the manger this morning and talked about all the service we did and why we did it. 

Benson loved getting to take care of baby Jesus. How cute is he kissing the little baby figurine?

We also said goodbye to our elves this morning too. 

And then we smashed our gingerbread houses. 

Benson was totally into this year. 

Then we loaded up and drove to Mountain Home. With Aunt Laura in the car, the trip went pretty smooth. The kids were so excited to finally get there and see all their family. 

Aunt Michelle immediately went to work helping the kids make Christmas cards. 

The kids got lots of snuggles and smiles in with their aunts and uncles. 

We hung out with everyone for a few hours and then we decided to visit a local nursing home and do some caroling. It was so fun. The residents were so happy to see us. It was so sweet to see them open their doors and smile at us as we sang.
The kids even handed out the Christmas cards they made. 

Here we are before leaving the nursing home. 

After we got back from caroling, the Christmas eve fun continued. 

There was a knock at the door and a delivery was at the door. 

The pajama elves had delivered the Christmas pajamas, so the kids got changed and then Aunt Michelle read the book to all the kids. We just love Aunt Michelle! She's the best. 

After the story, the kids got to sprinkle their reindeer food on the lawn. 

And then Nanny and Papa had special gifts for all the kids.
They handed out the gifts and the kids all opened them at once. 

They each received a new super soft blanket and they loved them.  

Then we said good night and tucked the kids in with their new blankets.
Now Santa can come and we can't wait.