We spent Christmas Eve celebrating with my family in the afternoon and then with Ronald's family in the evening. We're grateful that our parents and all our siblings and their families all live within driving distance not just from us but also each other. Makes for easy traveling during the holidays.
I like to remind the kids often about the reason why we celebrate Christmas. This Christmas tradition helps them to remember. Signature cake from my favorite bakery that we've been going to for more than ten years now.
I got the kids matching tees from Kohls, and while I was shopping I stumbled upon a gem for Ronald. He's such a nut, I knew he'd have no problems wearing it. Cousin Jakey said it was okay that he wasn't a reindeer like the cousins because he was an elf instead. Clever, Jakey!
The kids got a surprise from their Kuya Bryan out in California. He's the best at giving gifts for the kiddos. This year's gifts included what is apparently one of the hottest toys this Christmas, The Sing-a-ma-jigs. The kids couldn't stop laughing when they opened their presents. Funny, yes. Entertaining, yes. Annoying, oh my yes. But the kids love them. These toys can even sing in harmony which is part of their charm.
What happens when a three year old has way too much fun and no time to nap? Tantrum with a very big capital T. Foot stomping, angry jumping, and dramatic flailing around on the floor were included in this tantrum.
At the end of the night, three very tired children feel asleep in the van while we drove past a few neighborhoods with spectacular holiday lights and luminarias while on our way home. The roads were snowy and quite slick (several accidents on the way) so it took awhile to get home, but when we did the two bigs made sure we put out some milk and cookies before they went to bed.
We spent Christmas day at home in our PJs. We opened gifts, ate Amish Breakfast Casserole and Monkey Bread, played with our new toys, and opened more gifts. We closed out the day by singing Christmas songs and reading about the birth of Christ in the books of Matthew and Luke.
Rocket boy got his Pink Dancing Doggie, and he is completely and utterly in love.
I think I already mentioned that the kids' Kuya Bryan is an awesome gift giver. I found this HUGE box on our porch when we got home late last night. It came just in time! This truly is the perfect gift considering we all want a dog, but we are all allergic. Thanks, Bryan!
Rocket: "Pink Dancing Doggie, meet Biscuit."
Clarkie is easy. He loves everything. We think these Dino Glo Bonz are really neat.
As mentioned in my previous post, I tried some new recipes hoping they might become tradition for Christmas morning eats. The food was such a hit with the kids, every last crumb was eaten!
Amish Breakfast Casserole - I substituted the bacon with Morningstar Veggie Bacon Strips. I think I will make this again and add pepper and fresh tomatoes.
Ronald was in charge of the Monkey Bread. The kids devoured it and kept asking for more!
The kids are in bed, my Christmas blog post is done, and I'm off to clean up the Christmas mess. Hope your Christmas was full of sweet memories!
(Yes, my youngest is undressing in that last picture. Haha.)
We love Sing-a-ma-jigs! My mother-in-law was crazy about my daughter's gift, that we gave it to her instead. My daughter thought it was kinda scary. She thinks it might start talking to her, when she leaves it in her car. It's great for any age. LOvely pics, Joy!.
Posted by: Kate J. | Saturday, December 25, 2010 at 11:24 PM
Merry Christmas Joy! Looks like you guys had a great time, hope you have a wonderful break from work. LOL at Ronald, love that he wore that shirt, what a great sport!
Posted by: Hilary | Sunday, December 26, 2010 at 10:11 AM