"Christmas morning"

When there is a pastor in the family, you need to be creative about how you plan the more secular parts of the holidays.  For example, when and where does Santa come when you are traveling early Christmas morning?  And how do you get together with family to open gifts and share a meal when Christmas evening is full of services and packing for later travel? 

This year, we enjoyed a Little Christmas with our family in town on the 23rd.  Then, we got ready for Santa as we arranged for Santa to have an early delivery.   The kids found their stockings Christmas Eve morning.  The nice thing about spacing things out was that we could let each event be special on its own.  The kids didn't get overwhelmed with gifts and had time to play with and enjoy each present.  The downside is that you kind of get your days mixed up.  The kids got confused at Christmas Eve services when everyone was asking if they were excited for Santa to show up.  Evie looked at them like, "Duh! Santa showed up this morning?  What's up with you?"

Zevon and Guthrie got a sports set for Christmas.  Guthrie looks like he is planning to use his basketball for something else (notice his brother's head/target behind him).

 Evie's Barbie test drives her new car.

 Power hitter Zevon sizes up his new bat.

 Evie, Zevon and Guthrie find what Santa left for them.  Sugar and toys, what could be better!

 Chocolate goldfish!

 Mmm, sugar cereal!

 Evie finds a note from Santa.  He loved her cookies, hand decorated with sprinkles to spare.  The difference this Christmas was that she could READ the letter.  She is so smart!