christmas eve.

Our Christmas Eve this year was so very different from last year. Which is good. 

Last year wasn't much fun. 

This year was nice. And fun. And relaxed. I like all those things. 

Decorating gingerbread cookies... 

Pancakes with strawberries and whipped cream for supper... 

We did make one change in tradition. Instead of watching "It's a Wonderful Life," we watched the "Good Luck, Charlie" Christmas special on Disney channel. Probably a little more kid-friendly. (and honestly... I love the show, too. Mainly because I want to live in their house.) 

They each got to open one present.... new pajamas. And thankfully there were no freakouts this year over how pajamas fit. Whew. (Although we may have done a little a lot of talking about it during the day.)

Peppermint shakes... 

And three adorably cute, happy little people in new jammies. (and I didn't even have to create a happy kids picture this year!) =) 

Santa gifts are out...

And one special gift from Mommy and Daddy is hidden away...

A few cookies were set out for Santa. The others are hidden in the stove (to keep a giant dog from eating them all.)

So excited to wake up and see these smiling faces in the morning...