The days leading up to Christmas were full of parties at school, activities, and loads of friends and family time.

Cookies were fun as ever.  It was evident the kids are getting older since the cleanup wasn't as massive as past years.  Only a little was on the floor but the table was full of remnants of the most colorful cookies ever.

The day after Reghan helped prep for Christmas Eve dinner.  She took on all dips for the charcuterie board and roasted all the nuts for the sides.  She's really beginning to know her way around the kitchen.

We've been on the hunt for garland along the banister and before Christmas Eve mass Heath and Reghan pulled out something they've been working on for over a year to decorate the banister with.  It's difficult to see but they've slowly been taking 2-3 green twist ties from the grocery store and have been working on a super long twist tie rope to decorate.  They donned the house with their creation just in time for the holiday.  Afterwards everyone started to flow in for dinner and was delish.

Dinner was wonderful filled with family new and old.

That night Steven read the Night Before Christmas as he always does and then off to bed the kids went.

This year they waited even longer than usual before they could come downstairs.  They typically are clustered together at the top of the stairs but not this time.  They were spreading out in frustration of the wait.

It all melted away once they walked downstairs and saw all the goodies Santa brought them this year.  They must've been extra good because they made a haul.

The best gifts were strategically left till the end and they did not disappoint.   

Later that day more family came by and closed the day on such a lovely note.  It's our second year in our new home surrounded by family yet again which has made this such a wonderful and blessed adventure.  Here's to many more.