Christmas Day

After eight Christmases as parents, this was our first Christmas that began early.  Now we can't really complain, because our kids went to bed without a single problem the night before, but Bridget came bounding into our bed at 5:30 ready to go.  We held her off until 6:30 when all the commotion started to wake up Marshall.  With two eager kids we began the Christmas festivities without Rachel.  

As the four of us were wrapping up with stockings, Rachel woke up so she was able to join in on the fun.  It was also nice to just focus on her since the rest of us were done.  

We also started a new tradition this year, at the request of Marshall, but we'll see if we really keep it up.  :)  In school he had been learning about how different countries celebrate Christmas.  In one country they hide a pickle in the tree on Christmas morning and whoever finds it first gets to open the first present.  We printed out a picture of a pickle and hid it on Christmas Eve for pajamas and again on Christmas morning.  Marshall just thought this was the best and was so excited about it.  He found the pickle first on Christmas Eve so we made him sit out on Christmas morning.  Bridget was the first to find it on Christmas morning.

Here are a bunch of pictures from the morning.  It really was relaxing.  We did stockings, breakfast, and then the presents under the tree.  The kids were so good to say thank you and give hugs and watch each other open gifts.  These are such fun mornings.

Bridget's new crown coupled with Rachel's minion glasses.  Some of their interests are quite different.  ;)

Again, different interests.  :)  

Rachel is terrified of this jacket.  

Marshall has been using orange peels for mouth guards for months.  We finally upgraded him.  :)

An analog watch!  His dream come true!

If you live in this house you will surely have two things from a young age:  1.  your own cougar and 2.  your own blanket with your name on it.  Rachel finally got her blanket, and she loves it.

You should hear Rachel say, "Each Peach Pear Plum".  So cute.

Homemade gift from my brother and sister-in-law.

Max surprised Bridget with this calendar.  It is full of pictures from the last 4 1/2 years.  Tear-jerker.  

Can't get this girl to hold still.  

Looks like I will have a WI shrine.  :)  But really, these gifts are perfect, and I couldn't be happier about my gifts!

The rest of our day was spent on FaceTime with family, playing with the kids, and eating.  :)  It was a nice day, but by 6:00 Richard and I were beat!  Christmases aren't quite the same when you are the parent, but still a lot of fun, and a lot of work!