Christmas Eve 2014

Christmas Eve was a great day. We spent the whole day playing and looking forward to Christmas, and didn't get out of our jammies once. In the morning, when all the kids were playing, I got out the camera for a photo shoot. At the time, I was focused on all the pictures that didn't work out, but when I look at them now, I realize how lucky I am to have these wonderful kids in my life.

Olivia was all about the photo shoot with Kenzie. She loves her little sister, and is always looking for ways to be a helper.

When we get all the kids together, this kind of picture happens. Poor Kenzie is always getting balls bounced on her or elbows smashed into her.

My adorable kiddos. And I love that my camera can capture these faces as I see them every day. Always in action, with a half-smile on their faces as they explore and create adventures for themselves.

I love this picture of Alex as he plays with the kids. He is such a wonderful Dad, I be luckier.

Later in the morning, we took our 'reindeer food' - which we made at Olivia's Preschool Christmas program. The kids were totally thrilled to have some food for Rudolph, which made up for the fact that we totally forgot cookies for Santa! :)

After a semi-healthy, mostly-sugary lunch, we had naps and rested to get ready for the fun evening ahead. Later we headed over to Amber's for dinner and a nativity. I took a million pictures during the nativity, but here are a few of my favorites...

Elli the star/angel and Teagen the wise man

Olivia as Mary, and Carter the shepherd

Kade as Joseph (and yes, this is the face I got when I asked him to smile. I'm not sure sultry is the look he was going for, but he's definitely growing up.

And a few scenes...first is the angel telling Mary that she will bear a child

Mary and Joseph traveling on their donkey to Bethlehem.

Joseph getting rejected at an inn

Mary and Joseph with Baby Jesus.

The shepherd minding his flocks

One of the wise men presenting his gift

The whole crew...

My favorite picture from the night.

After we finished our nativity, we rushed home to make is before Santa came. It was snowing, and Santa's elves had a big job ahead of them.