christmas eve

in our family, Christmas Eve morning is just as special as that night and Christmas morning.

My mamaw Jo has ALL of us to her house for an extravagant brunch and then gives each of her children (6), grandchildren and spouses (18ish?) and great-grandchildren (22?) wonderful gifts!

what a woman, right?!?

although we all love the food and gifts, we have learned that it is so much more fun to watch Mamaw Jo open her gifts from us! we like to make her sit down for a minute, amongst the chaos, and let us shower her with attention and gifts. 

look at her face!

happy lady.

a few years ago, Jamie and I decided to break out my moms Christmas sweaters for the brunch.

it started a lovely tradition.

participation in festive attire varies

but we all have a wonderful time.

this is,hands down, one of my favorite days of the year

after brunch, we head over to my moms for a bit of cookie decorating with all of the cousins!

we skipped out this year, so that JR could nap. but i still this pic of my cute cousins anyway.

this year, we started of Christmas Eve celebrating at church.

we had a wonderful service that included a few of us singing the Hallelujah chorus!

after that, we headed to my aunt and uncles, Chrys and Johnny's, house for the festivities and of course...more food.

Judson tickled the ivories and provided the musical entertainment for the evening.

Santa joined the party.

some were more excited than others....

as always, we were thoroughly entertained by all of the cousins talents including singing, magic tricks, rapping and some gymnastics

loves him some Bella boo!

seriously, i thought that i had more pics from the Eve festivities. oh well...

Christmas Eve is always a busy, exciting, hilarious, filling and joyous day.

We are blessed to have so much family to share it with and who are intentional about making it memorable and special.

that's what it takes.