Christmas Eve, my absolute favorite day of the year. I love to celebrate the holiday with my children and our family. We all head over to my mom's house. I am always on pins and needles until both my children arrive, it's a mother thing. This year we are thrilled because Suzy and William will be with us to celebrate. My children couldn't wait to see everyone.
I had hoped for a low key day, but the lasagna still wasn't made and the wrapping, so not done! Additionally, we needed to set up beds so that both Jason and Jessica each had a bed and room to sleep in. Mark worked feverishly on the downstairs bedroom while I pulled together the lasagna. A very successful way to divide and conquer the chores that needed to be accomplished.
Jason's room was finished first. The quilt on the bed is one that I made at a mystery weekend sponsored by The Little Shop. There is no binding on the quilt but it did the job and looked good doing it.
Jessie's room is currently where Mark's office is set up. It is also the holding spot for all of my scrapbooking supplies. That room was a little harder to make presentable.
The evening was wonderful. All of us together, time to relax and lasagna for dinner. Who could ask for more?
Suzy brought special viewing glasses and they made the tree lights look like stars and snowflakes. I tried to take a photo through the glasses and I think I captured some of the affect.
I think you get the idea - it was really cool.
This is the first time we have had my children and most of their cousins in the same place in five years. I couldn't wait to get a photo of all of them together.
The little cousins love hanging out on mema's bed. I have a picture just like this, with Liv, Amanda and William. I think that picture was seven years ago. I love this one.
We exchange family gifts on Christmas Eve. The little cousins always get pajamas from mema and they usually can't wait to put them on. This year Amanda "made" fleece throws for everyone with the help of her mom. Jason loved his!
Isn't he a cutie? Jessica looked terrific, as usual. I love this picture of Jess and Jen.
This was the first Christmas Mark spent with my family. I thought it may have been just a wee much for him, but he really got into the spirit and enjoyed the revelry. Here he is showing off a gift from mom.
After all that has happened between my holiday party and Christmas I was just thrilled that we were all able to be together and that mom is feeling healthier and was able to be a part of the celebration.
Once at home we had pie to share and chatting to do. Jason and Jessica went to bed early. Me, not so much. I was up till 3am Christmas morning, wrapping presents. I love the quiet of Christmas Eve. I feel a tremendous sense of peace whenever my children are sleeping under the same roof as me.
