Twas the Night Before Christmas

I know I should be talking about the New Year, my resolutions, and a year in review. I'm working on it. The thing is, there is a lot to be said, and a lot of things that I want to talk about. I'm not ready just yet. So I will continue on this week with doing my recaps, and maybe throw in something related to 2014 being right around the corner. I mean, tomorrow.

For now, let us talk about Christmas Eve.

Christmas eve. It was all perfect in its own way that I simply want to share pictures and just leave it at that. However, there are still things about the day that I would like to write down for myself to remember. Little tidbits of information that may not be interesting to a stranger, but instead very important to me. So I'm going to write this post in a nontraditional kind of way {what is traditional about blogging anyway}, and just let my thoughts burst out on the computer screen.

*I dressed as an elf on Christmas. The outfit was about 10 sizes too big, but it was a definite hit with E. She thought it was the cutest thing ever and still talks about it from time to time.

*We baked cookies for Santa and left out a carrot. That santa ate every cookie and only one reindeer carrot was left. E makes sure to remind us of that daily as well.

*We missed Christmas Eve service due to a meltdown. A big meltdown. Won't be pointing fingers or names.

*There were four kids this year opening {destroying} presents this year. Four. Not just present, but four walking, talking, ability to destroy kind of kids around. Next year? There will be five. Presents aside, it truly is a blessing and an amazing thing to watch this little family of mine grow. The memories that we create will be something that we will smile when we look back on.

*My brother got Elliana a beetle car for Christmas and it is definitely the biggest hit. Now I know Graham will be asking for one next year.

*My brother also got everyone scratch off lottery tickets for their stocking stuffer this year, and I thought that was such a fun idea. Definitely will be doing this again next year.

*Sugar does crazy things to children. Who would have thought. 

*You have to take breaks in between opening gifts. You have to. We had to. It's a must with all these children. And it's pretty darn overwhelming.

This year, again, proved to me that it is never about the presents. It is never about the amount or what you got. It is always about the family that is around you and those that you love the most. Being with my family was all I needed and all I wanted for Christmas Eve. You look around and you are reminded of how blessed and fortunate that you are. I never want to take any of it for granted. The family members that I love, nor the life that I live. I also want my children to always remember this. That Christmas is about the One that sacrificed His life for us. And to remember to live their life doing the same. Thinking of others, giving to others, helping others, and never forgetting about those that have given to us.

I'll let the pictures do the rest of the talking.

Oh, and since it is New Years Eve.... I hope everyone has a great night celebrating and reminiscing.

All be safe. Happy New Year.