Merry Christmas Eve! It was a day full of Kassel Family traditions. First, Grandpa Ken and Grandma Marilyn arrived to spend Christmas with us.
Along with baking for some of the day to get ready for Christmas Day, the kids and I made Reindeer Food, a mix of oatmeal and red and green glitter, to spread on the driveway so that the reindeer could snack while Santa Claus delivered presents to two kids on the “Nice” list.
After a tasty dinner of Marilyn’s Lasagna, the kids took a bath and got dressed in their Christmas Pajamas. Then, it was time for Daddy to read “Twas the Night Before Christmas.”
Before heading to Christmas Eve service at church, Laura and John spread the Reindeer Food on the driveway.
Just like last year, the kids wore their Christmas pajamas and slippers to church. Pastor Paul even mentioned that he was slightly jealous that the kids got to be so comfortable. I always enjoy this particular service and the kids like to be part of the candle lighting. Upon arriving home about 10 pm, Laura and John waved goodbye to Chippy. We will miss Chippy, but he will be back next Christmas season!
Then, we set out the cookies and milk for Santa.
Since Andy had gone back to church for the 10:30 pm service, I put the kids to bed and then went upstairs to relax with a glass of wine and my new Kindle Fire HDX. About 11 pm, I heard some noises in our family room… I raced downstairs, but the cookies were mostly eaten and the milk was all but gone by the time I got down there. I knew Santa had arrived because our stockings were stuffed…
…and presents for Laura and John were by the Christmas tree.
Santa Claus had come and gone! I went back upstairs and climbed into bed because Christmas morning would come quickly.