CHRISTMAS EVE WITH COUSINS - 2009

Christmas Eve is a fun tradition that we enjoy every year with the Jensens. We gather together for a wonderful, delicious Prime Rib dinner ... because well ... it's tradition. Then we sing a few Christmas carols - including Willy Claus - another tradition. If you've never heard it, it is a real treat. We sing a few Christmas hymns and read the story of the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

AND THEN, we get to do our cousin exchange. This started a little bit ago because Christian and Connor aren't always able to spend time with us. And we want everyone to be there. This year, the Royce family had our kids:

Kate smiling with her new Tinkerbell jacket and hair bows.

The typical 'Dawson' look when he is not enthused. He received a new hat and shirt. The hat is okay, the shirt not so much (it's not in the picture.)

Faith holding up a cute Hannah Montana shirt. She loved it!

Here is Colt when he opened up his mitt.

Playing with Aunt Tracy and Christian.

Crazy Uncle Brian. (Now I know where Jordan's eyes came from!)

Another tradition is that the kids get to open pajamas to sleep in. This is one of my favorite traditions that I had as a child. Somehow, you just slept a little better in new pajamas.

Dawson soon turned his frown around.
It's amazing what Mario pajamas can do to a kid!

In front of our tree!

My turn!


The oldest!

Ahhh, the love!

They have the sillies!

During the night, we also track Santa on the website. This has been so much fun to watch video and to get them tucked in tight for the night.