Christmas Eve

 Our Christmas Eve started with brunch with my dad, Katie, and ALL of my B-family siblings.

We haven't all been together in a very long time, so this was a big deal!

The boys got to open their presents right away.

Mateo would look at something, throw it over his head, and go for something else.

We really need to work on his present-opening etiquette. :)

 Sam is always the perfect gift-opener.

He takes time to look at everything, and the gushing makes it even better.

He's a pro.

 Ben wasn't really sure what was going on. :)

 My dad and baby sister Emma

 All of the siblings!

 My dad, Katie, Me, and baby Emma.

I'm grateful we were able to spend some time with them!

After that, we had some down time and then headed over to my parents' house 

for our traditional Christmas Eve soup & bread bowl dinner.

One of my favorite traditions!

I always regret not taking pictures of the food.

Is that weird?

It's just that I love food, and it's such a huge part of the celebrating.

My mom made her cheesy potato & ham soup,

Michael and Laura made a turkey chili,

and I made chicken enchilada soup.

SO good!

 After that, it was time to open presents!

 The boys have been really into the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles lately.

Sam got some awesome Ninja Turtle Legos,

and Aunt Allison got all of the boys some regular Ninja Turtles. 

They were pretty excited!

 (Present opening is serious business)

 Ben wasn't too excited about opening the presents.

He just wanted to play with them after they had been opened,

so Sam and Mateo were happy to help!

 Dad & Mom

 Sock Monkey jacket from Uncle Michael & Aunt Laura

 Allison and Todd

Michael and Laura

Christmas Eve was nice, but it was kind of bittersweet to not have Jesse there. Luckily that was our last Christmas without him, and we're looking forward to Christmas Eve next year!