Christmas eve and day

So as Christmas approached this year, I realized how busy we were b/c we did very few of our usual "traditions".  We didn't make it to the Messengers to see the lights, and we didn't even walk down to the "blow-ups" (as my kids say) right down the street.  The end of school was so hectic.  Even though, we had a great time and I did snap a few pics.  

As per tradition, the girls get to open one gift on Christmas eve;  so after church, they picked a gift.  Emma got a great new Disney (I-spy type) game, and Katie got Heads Up (like on Ellen).

We played the Disney game right away - very cute.  

Our crazy tree, decorated by me and with a lot of help from the girls.  The pictures are random Christmas photos - like with Santa:

Jovi was so excited about her new bed (ha-ha) - but she does love it!

Emma and her new "onesie" on Christmas morning.

Katie and a new Wii game (Jovi, containing her excitement):

Mark and his new Louisiana "Game Changers" Sports book:

Me and my new Disney Vera Bradley bag - yes, there are Hidden Mickeys on it:

So also, as per tradition, I make the Southern Living White Cake for Christmas.  This year it was a red velvet, cheesecake layered cake - Whew!  It was at least a foot tall.  Kind of became the big joke at our house.  I was afraid to ice it.  Long story short, it wasn't the prettiest cake (or the daintiest), but it tasted pretty darn good.

So since the girls were up at 6 AM, everyone needed a nap that afternoon.  I think I was the only one who didn't nap, and trust me... one glass of wine that night at Kim's and I was about to fall fast asleep.  Next year, remind me to nap!

Later that night, we headed to Nannie Kim's for gumbo and festivities.  

The girls waiting to open presents:

Kim, Mark and Jason solving the world's problems:

Emma and Mr. Richard join in the conversation:

Opening up the gifts:

And the ceremonial cutting of the giant cake.  I wasn't sure if we had a knife or plates big enough:

One two pound piece later!  by the way, the cake weighed 10 pounds total, what?!

After dinner and presents, Emma and Mr. Richard play with the train under the tree.  Like grandfather, like granddaughter!

Lastly, a mean game of Heads Up before we leave for home.  It was a blast!