Christmas Eve is usually my favorite part of the festivities and this year did not disappoint. It’s the perfect combination of excitement, anticipation, traditions and focusing on the true meaning of Christmas.

We began the morning off with the Cramer family tradition of  popcorn wreaths with the nephews. Try explaining to four boys under the age of 8 why they can’t eat the stuff while they make it…yes, we gave in and let them eat as much as they wanted. Aw, they joy of being an Aunt & Uncle.

We then headed downtown to the outdoor ice skating rink. Everyone had SO much fun! The air was crisp, the lights were on and the music was playing…it was the perfect way to kick-off our EVEning. We missed Brad, Yvette & Brody but can’t wait to see them tomorrow!

After ice skating, we headed over to Chesapeake Energy for some pseudo Temple Square Lights. They used LEDs and Brad, I now believe you, there really is a difference. The blues and magentas were magnificent and it wasn’t even fully dark!

We ended the evening with our traditional program. Dad always tells the nativity while the nephews help place pieces of the nativity. Mom & Dad surprised us this year with our own hand carved & hand painted nativity set made by THEM! Among other things, we rounded out the evening with the Cramer family tradition of opening our PJ’s. Thanks Janet & Joe…I’m still drooling over my “classic” set!

Trey and Braden built a “chimney” to climb through and then slept under the table in the playroom. They were so excited for Santa’s arrival.