{CHRISTMAS EVE- ARIZONA STYLE}

Christmas Eve was very different than any other year so far (this is actually my first Christmas EVER being away from my family, and the only time Jake missed Christmas with his family was when he was on his mission!) So since we weren't by family we went out with friends, who basically have become our family!  We went out to a movie and dinner with the Burtons. It was lots of fun. We went and saw Disney's Tangled, such a cute movie, the kids loved it. We then headed over to the Cheesecake Factory for some yummy grub and fabulous company. 

We then headed home to start off our yearly Christmas Eve traditions.

We don't have a chimney this year, so we found the MAGICAL SANTA KEY that we leave outside of our door, only Santa and his Magic can make it fit into our door (that way bad guys wont get in!) The kids placed it under the mat outside!

We then left a trail with Reindeer food for Santa's Reindeer. It is a special mix that only Reindeer like, they can smell it from the sky, and the food glows with glitter so the Reindeer can see if from far away.

Then we got out the cookies and milk on our special Santa plate for when Santa comes to visit tonight. Santa LOVES Trader Joe's Peppermint Cookies! 

We then wrote names on some paper and had Kaid draw names for the FIRST PERSON to open the FIRST PRESENT for Christmas. Kaid drew his own name, he was FIRST and so excited. We opened one gift each from my parents. They were Pajamas! We love the annual PJs! The kids were so excited and the ones my Mom picked out  were perfect for them! Kaid had DINOSAURS and Mags is a BALLERINA PRINCESS. They were in HEAVEN! 

Kaiden dresses himself now and picked this outfit out today. His Dinosaur shirt in-side-out and backwards, and he finished the look off with his Sunday shoes. He refused to change, so I thought I would capture it.  What a big boy he is! So proud of you!

Family photo by the tree in our new PAJAMAS! Thanks Mom and Dad!!

We then ended the night with TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS STORY. 

(We usually have Jesus' birthday party on Christmas Eve, but it got to late. We will do it tomorrow)

We wouldn't trade the things we are learning and experiences we are having down here in Arizona for anything, we feel very blessed. It's been a wonderful Christmas so far!

The kids are so excited, hope they sleep tonight. We can't wait for tomorrow!
Merry Christmas! xo