Every year we increase the number of gifts we have the kids open on Christmas Eve. At first it was just their gift to each other; growing up we were both allowed to pick a gift to open, and its a cherished tradition for both of us. What T quickly realized is that by spreading the gift opening over two days there was more time for B and C to appreciate and enjoy each gift, rather than rushing on to open the next one, and the next one. At first J was a bit unsure about her theory, and her motives; T is known to have little patience when holding back gifts. So its been a gradual change in tradition. But it now seems clear to both of us that this is a good thing, and its only right that each gift get its due attention, after all they were all chosen and given with love, many from relatives farther away than we would wish.
a baby doll, quickly named Aline Loopsy...and then renamed again, and again
And so this year it felt like Christmas spilled over to include both days and it was wonderful! We staggered gifts throughout the day, beginning with their gifts to each other. We cooked dinner together, stuffed shells this year instead of the usual lasagna (a much loved change). T made fleur de sel toffee and old fashioned peanut brittle (C said that is what Santa wanted this year instead of cookies), which was a big hit.
a Christmas themed Thomas w/ a candy-cane car (and plays "Jingle Bells")
C fell asleep just fine, but B had a very hard time finding sleep. She kept coming into the living room every 15 minutes asking if it was morning yet. Pretty cute. We had a long wait to begin our elves' work for the night. This year we decided to do each other's stockings as a surprise, which added an element of mystery to the night. And a flurry of last minute wrapping.
it took us ages to figure out where to put this string of battery operated lights,
finally found the perfect spot
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