Christmas eve

On Christmas Eve, we always go to my mom's house. This tradition has become quite a celebration of wonderful food and chaotic gift exchanging. Each year we vow to "cut back" and not buy as much stuff. And with the "current state of the economy" (as my mom so brilliantly puts it), we really didn't spend as much money on gifts this year... of course, you can't tell at all!! Everyone got so much stuff!! You still can't walk through most rooms of my house!
Cady was really excited when it was time to start opening presents!
Austin was just really excited... with the ugly blue elephant.
Austin's first present was his fun green ball from Grandma
And Cady loved her new patterns from Grandma!Ah, Big squeeze!Adria wasn't sure about all the excitement until she got to open her books. Then she didn't want to open anything else!
She just wanted to enjoy story time with Mommy!
Me and Ashley with our matching bags and mismatched boots from Kelly!! Love them! Still have one blue and one green boot!
Adria can't wait to color in the bathtubAunt Kelly checking out her new shirt from Cady Lee
The traditional Uncle Kenny and Mary picture... with Mary trying to hide!Austin loved unwrapping his own presents.
Grandma bought the girls really warm and fuzzy Disney blankets
At the Christmas Gift and Hobby show, we had this shirt made for Mom. It was one of my favorite gifts to give!!
And surprise to Aunt Kelly!! She got one too!! And she was with me when I ordered it!!!We bought this at the Craft fair too. This is Cady and my little saying... She can't wait to hang it up in her room.
For the love of Pixos!! Grandma is the best!
One of Aunt Ashley's favorite things for Adria was this little lamb blanket and animal. They are super soft and cuddly!!
Adria wasn't too sure at first what to think but then she fell in love!
Adria is currently OBSESSED with ponies. She loved the "pony in my pockets" that Cady bought her!BILL!! I don't know why I don't have pics of Grandma GiGi
Mommy's little man
Grandma and Austin reading his new books...
and kissing the kitty cat in the book
Strike a pose!!
Uncle Kenny and Mary bought Cady lots of Barbie Diamond Castle stuff... and she loves it all!
But if I have to listen to the "I feel connected, protected" song any more I may just VOMIT!
Aunt Kelly had a Dino theme with Austin... stuff animals, a book, a coloring book and a cute outfit!
Love to color


It was well after nine before we made it home. We were all exhausted and everyone was ready to get to bed before Santa could come. But we had to complete our Christmas Eve traditions...
Reindeer food
Cookies and milk for Santa in front of the fireplace
And magical reindeer dust!! Cady had a blast outside in her pjs, in the freezing cold! And the wind was blowing everything EVERYWHERE! Then... the kids were all nestled all snug in their beds, while visions of sugarplums dance in their heads...