christmas eve and day

My friend and old neighbor Kay took the kids to her house Christmas eve.  They played, watched movies, danced and had lots of fun.  Meanwhile, I baked....and baked....and baked more and if I never see another cinnamon roll for the rest of my life- I will be alright. (Okay maybe just a month.)  Kevin worked on projects around the house and it felt strangely quiet.  I was just waiting for the kids to come in from playing outside...Kay and her lovely family kept them all day...happily...she said they were well behaved- even fun...yup...those kids are fun...I missed them....but at least I got the baking done.  It was worth it to see the reaction on friend's faces when you tell them, "homemade cinnamon rolls" - helps take the guesswork out of Christmas breakfast- at least that was my intention.  Why am I rambling?  We had ham, yummy jazzed up mashed potatoes, homemade dinner rolls, and green beans for dinner. The kids then had their first annual gift exchange-a little crazy- but the kids were happy- they chose names out of a hat and chose a little something for that person.  Megan saved up her money and got a little something for all her brothers and sisters. We then went to deliver the baked treats.  Came home- opened presents of new pj's- the kids enjoy that.  We then listened to Kevin play Christmas songs on the piano.  Brian danced.

dancing to Daddy playing "Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer"

Before

After

playing Risk

Megan created this luxury home for new zhu zhu pet "Nugget"

pics are not in order- Christmas Eve

Then Kevin read the Christmas story from the scriptures.  I wanted to have the kids act it out- but I didn't prepare well...next year!  Merry Christmas!

Gifts and gingerbread...

My first attempt at making a homemade gingerbread house

One gingerbread house and 6 large gingerbread men to decorate ( 1 little one for Brian)

Erin received some help with the icing

Did Brian eat it all or did Cody help?

well, at least we got pictures!  I will let the icing set longer next time!

Grandma and Grandpa Reiter came over for a visit....with lots of curly fries and presents

thanks, Mom and Dad!