Christmas Eve

On Christmas Eve we let Levi and Gracie open their presents from Grammy and Pop. It really is kind of a lot to take in on one day anyway.
Levi is an expert present opener. He is very rewarding with his gasping reactions and exclaiming joy. Granted, he asks for another present about 2 minutes later, but still, it doesn't take away from his initial delight.

The baseballs were instantly transformed into two tiny babies for Gracie to cuddle and carry around.

A little lesson from Papa first on how to swing the bat. It should be a lesson from me, but then who would take the pictures? I guess my glory softball days are behind me.

It is a rather cool little set up. We eventually took it outside where he could try and hit further. Might as well start figuring out what activities he wants to get involved in within the next couple years. That looks like a pretty good swing to me.

Obviously Baby girls need a turn as well.

Gracie's turn for her present. I was pretty surprised by her interest in opening her presents. I didn't think she would care or be inspired to unwrap things. But she caught on rather quickly. I should have known. She already cries when we pass by the toy aisles as she spots a baby doll across the store.

I love how tiny she is compared to the opening of this giant bag.

This picture cracks me up. Gracie is intently waiting and watching daddy put together her new toy. And Levi is reading the instructional manual. He's got Nathan's back if he takes a wrong turn.

I'd say she likes it. It also plays music so she's sold.

After we had our great feast, we went to our church's Christmas Eve service. It was a family candle lit service with great music. And the pastor had all the kids come up front to read the story of Jesus' birth out of a children's bible. He told us that tonight's sermon was for the kids, and the rest of us just got to eavesdrop.

Gracie did not go up for the kids story, but she did get to dress in the finest little Christmas princess gown. She is so cute in it, I have to find reasons for her to wear it as often as she can before it's too small!

Her brother and daddy were making her smile and giggle for these pictures.

And that was our Christmas Eve. Exciting presents, big dinner, sweet service, and pretty dresses.