This year, Christmas definitely seemed more of a season than a day. The entire month of December was filled with magic, as we watched everything through the kids' eyes.
In an attempt to keep Kate occupied until the evening on Christmas Eve, Jason ambitiously helped her make gingerbread men (from scratch!).
Andrew was super-pleased with this project, as you can tell by the hand gripping a cookie and the sneaky look on his face.
Finally, after hours of waiting, it was time to go to church (but not before a few photo attempts in front of the tree)!
After church, we went to Papa Jack & Grandma C's for a feast of crab legs and gift opening.
Kate's favorite gift of the evening: a treasure hunt that lead her to a newly redone "secret room" (complete with a markerboard, cup holders and her very own sign).
After a late evening, we were thrilled that both kids slept until almost 8 on Christmas morning! Once getting up, they wasted no time in opening gifts from Santa.
Kate got the monkey pillow-pet that she asked Santa for.
Not sure what was in this gift, but obviously someone was excited!
The Vogels arrived at our house Christmas afternoon for more gift opening.
Some favorite moments: Andrew squealing with delight when he opened a fire truck from Uncle Kevin, and Kate pumping her fist in the air and saying yes, yes when she opened up a four-pack of princess Barbies from Uncle Mike. (see facial expression below)
We feel truly blessed this holiday season.
