Christmas Eve

This year I wanted to start some new traditions for our family on Christmas Eve.  For most of my childhood up until I went away to college (and some years after that), we always went to my aunts house on Christmas Eve. We always had cider, her spinach dip with Hawaiian bread, and cheese dip among other great appetizers.  Due to ministry (not always living close enough) and many churches having a Christmas Eve service, that tradition is not likely to be carried on so I've been looking for other ideas.
Leading up to Christmas Eve this year, we opened several books and had several movie nights or other special evenings as a family.  On Christmas Eve, we attended the Christmas Eve service at church. Rylee was so proud to hold her candle all by herself and Zack was super excited to help hold mommy's.  Both kids did much better than I expected and Kevin only had to take Zack out once.  They came back with some peanut M&M's from Mr. Martin's office (Z's favorite) and we were set for the rest of the service. :) Both kiddos really enjoyed the singing also!
When we came home, we had a large box under the tree to open. Inside was a book and movie (The Polar Express), hot chocolate packets, marshmallows, popcorn, and new pj's! I love the new pj's idea and will definitely be carrying this on every year regardless of what else may be in our surprise box.
I can't say the night went off without a glitch though. Both kids were tired and the movie was a little longer than I remembered, Rylee burnt her mouth on the hot chocolate, and we were all a little grouchy.  All in all, it was a success though!  I didn't take the time to get many pics though. Maybe I will do better next year!