Christmas Eve

We were thankful to continue the tradition of Christmas Eve at the Heimer's this year, as everyone's work schedules cooperated.  Unfortunately, for the second year in a row, Ian and Christy were sick, so the Witherspoons were absent from the celebration.
We arrived late morning ready to make merry and enjoyed snacks and drinks throughout the afternoon.  Lots of heavy appetizers, and white bean chicken chili meant our tummies were full and happy all day.  Ryan and Jim ran a couple errands for Uncle John as Nana wrapped a few last gifts and Ben and I bopped about trying to be helpful and enjoy the time with family.  After a late afternoon meal, we opened gifts.  Ben was more excited for gifts this year and WAY more excited at this point than he would be the following morning.

Ben LOVED this B-toys walk-on piano

Two phones and a dimly (yet holiday appropriate and lovely) lit living room meant these  were the closest to a nice family photo we got that evening.

Ben had his standard measurement and grew another 3/4ths inch since Thanksgiving!

All 3 Heimer men tickling the ivories.

After gifts and a couple of sweet treats, we headed to MeeMee's where Tante would arrive shortly, and we'd hurry off to bed after leaving treats for Santa and the reindeer.

First, mystery bars for Santa, then.....

carrots for the reindeer.

Ben got to have a slumber party with Tante in his room at MeeMee's house.....

Up they went! 

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!!

Note: our DLSR camera is broken and in the shop so holiday pics left lots to be desired.  Ryan's iphone 6 takes some great pictures but can be nearly as technical to operate as our big camera for people unfamiliar.  Hence, no great family shots, but I'm extra thankful for the few decent shots we did get. (Mostly in the daylight of the next day.)