Christmas Eve

       Even though much of the world and life is very different, we still got to celebrate Christmas just like we do every year.  We headed over to my parents house bright and early on Christmas Eve.  We were all so excited to go over there and start our Christmas festivities!!!  

When we got there, we had our traditional breakfast of bagels.  Afterwards, the kids all helped my mom set the table for dinner.  I love that they are now able to help with things like that!  

After we set the table, it was time to pull out the Christmas puzzle. We finished last year's puzzle quickly, so we went with a 1,000 piece this year.  We were quickly reminded that despite everyone pitching in, we just can't get a 1,000 piece done in two days.  Back to a 500 piece next year!  It was still fun and kept us busy.  

   Ever since I can remember we have always done a Danish lunch on Christmas Eve.  My grandfather was Danish, it is a neat way to honor our heritage.  It has evolved a little over the years, but it always involves open faced sandwiches and a special cranberry punch that we all love.  

After our lunch, we spent more time working on the puzzle.  

   We took a break in the afternoon, and the kids decorated some cookies to leave for Santa that night.  

   In between eating and working on the puzzle, we all got in A LOT of puppy cuddles.  She sleeps a lot and does a lot of cuddling.  

   Due to some last minute unexpected circumstances, the Leone's spent all of Christmas Eve with us.  They usually spend it with the Leone's, so it was nice having them there.  For dinner, we had our traditional lasagna dinner.  It was really good!  

   After dinner, it was time to put on the pajamas that the elves brought for us.  The elves didn't bring Joey a pair, so he felt a little left out.  We always have to take a million shots to just get a few good ones.  

   After our photo shoot,  it was time to leave out cookies and milk for Santa.  We also read The Night Before Christmas.  The kids were eager to get in bed and fall asleep as quickly as they could.  They were all out pretty quickly!