Staley Family Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve is always spent with my mom's side of the family - the Staleys. For the last couple years, my Uncle Dave (with the help of my cousin Carrie) hosts the event at him and my Aunt Martha's house. Since my aunt has MS, we all head over to their house for dinner and the gift exchange. It makes things easier. Dinner is usually a potluck of family favorites - chicken paprikash and stuffed cabbage.

I'm not sure where or when it started but it's a tradition that the man of the house is Santa and everyone, young and old, needs to sit on his lap to open their present(s). The only two who don't have to abide by this rule are my grandparents.

Unfortunately, there were several family members that weren't able to join us this year. But those who were there had a great time.

 Miles with his Great Aunt Martha

My nephew Anthony was exhausted and needed
is Mama to help open his present.

My cousin (practically sister) Carrie and I.

 My little cousin Hannah couldn't contain
in her excitement. She was a ball of energy.

 Santa Dave and Miles. Hmmm...

I think Carrie liked the once-a-month
cookbook Mike, Miles and I gave her.

There's only one thing better than seeing my dad
sitting on Santa's knee...

Seeing my husband sitting on Santa's lap!

 Miles has a serious issue with walking
around with bags on his head, but I'll
save that for another blog post.

 Miles is all boy. His Great Great Grandpa introduced
him to Matchbox cars this Christmas and he loves them.

Miles adores his big cousin Johnny.

Caleb and Santa Dave

I hope my brother knows that this onesie isn't going to fit him.

There's nothing like a big hug from my uncle,
I mean Santa.

Uncle Dave and his twin grandsons, Johnny & Nick.

The Harris Family: Chris, Aunt Martha, Uncle Dave & Carrie