Christmas Eve (December 24)

Christmas Eve was a flurry of preparation for us, but the day itself felt very calm and relaxing. I prepped the lasagna for supper right after breakfast, so there was little to do in the kitchen the rest of the day. We spent the boys' nap time picking up and cleaning in preparation for Dad, Pam, Jess and Tyler coming for supper and listening to Christmas music.

The day truly just flew by, and before we knew it, it was time to wake the boys up and get them ready for the Christmas Eve service at church, which started at 4pm.

It was a beautiful advent service, about 45 minutes long. I always love Christmas Eve services, sitting in the dimly-lit room with the candles lighting the room. We came home and got the oven going, then let the boys open their Christmas Eve gifts from Mama and Daddy. I picked out a book for each of them along with a new Christmas movie, a new set of Christmas PJs and their 2014 ornaments.

Dad, Pam, Jess and Tyler arrived just about 10 minutes before the lasagna was coming out of the oven, so just about perfect timing. Lasagna is one of those yummy comfort foods that just feels good when it's cold outside :)

Of course, Cashel just couldn't wait another second to open gifts, so we moved pretty quickly from finishing our meals to opening gifts. He got an awesome coral reef book and a fun sticker book and the Cars DVD and blu-ray pack. Kendrick got a fun wooden toy, some new rain boots and a book.

We tried to get a group picture, but man is it ever hard with two wriggly little dudes.

And, of course, they had to show Uncle Tyler their jumpy house and break it in. I'm fairly certain they had no fun at all.

We always enjoy our time with these guys, and this year was no exception. :)