Tree Trimming
So we started a new tradition this year. In my family we always used to get an ornament every year to symbolize something that was meaningful to that year. We have continued that tradition and always done that with our kids. But this year we decided to begin giving their special ornament to them the same day that we decorate the tree. The kids loved that they got to open a present early, it meant a little more to them, and we get to see it up for the entire Christmas season. Makenna got a Sofia the First ornament since that is the show that she loves to watch and since she dressed up as her for Halloween. Kyler got a Mickey Mouse ornament because he absolutely loves Mickey.
Christmas Pageant
We continued our Christmas festivities with a church Christmas Pageant on December 22nd. Makenna had a great time playing the part of one of the angels.
Christmas Eve
On Christmas Eve we had the Venable family over to our house for an early dinner and gift opening. The kids always love getting together with their cousins. Kyler loved his new toy tool set. Afterwards we headed to our Christmas Eve service at church. After church the kids opened up their pajama presents and headed to bed.
Christmas Morning
On Christmas morning we started off at our house. My mom and Jim graciously brought over our traditional Christmas casserole and coffee cake. The kids opened stocking gifts, Santa gifts, and gifts from mommy and daddy. Makenna was so excited when she opened her jewelry box from Santa and her bicycle from mommy and daddy.
Kyler enjoyed his huge Tonka trucks and especially liked riding in the back of the dump truck. Atlhough from this picture I think daddy was the most excited for Kyler to get the Tonka trucks.
He also loves horses so he was fascinated by the little toy horse figurines that he received.
It was funny to watch Kyler open his gifts this year because he meticulously pulled off one small piece of wrapping paper at a time. It took a long time for him to unwrap everything, but he was having fun.
Makenna also on her own asked if she could give Christmas gifts to each of us. So we set up some chores for her to tackle and she earned enough money to buy gifts. It was so sweet to see her wanting to give to others.
Christmas Night
After the kids' nap time, we headed over to my mom and Jim's house for lots more fun. We enjoyed spending lots of time with family and opening up even more gifts. We had such a wonderful Christmas!!
2013 Christmas Card
