Merry Christmas!

The kids woke up this morning and happily hung out in our bed for a while (20-30 minutes) before heading downstairs. I honestly expected a pre-dawn rampage, but was pleasantly surprised. They were aware it was Christmas morning, but not overcome with excitement or anxiety.

Once downstairs they explored the scene, and their true personalities were quickly demonstrated.  Ryan walked over to the plate where we placed Santa's cookies the night before ... and ate the crumbs that were left.

Brooke immediately went to the stockings and gifts.  After the crumbs were clear, Ryan joined Brooke at the stockings.  As Brooke looked at all of the contents, Ryan pulled out the candy, and screamed and yelped with joy. He then forgot there were any presents at all and focused on trying to convince us he should have his M&M's right away.

After we finally got him away from the candy, momentarily, they began to tear through their presents. Again, it was a typical scene. Each gift Ryan opened was met with a scream of delight. Each gift Brooke opened was tossed aside without much response as she reached for another.

After the kids successfully trashed the living room, we all sat down for breakfast.  I was proud of my beautiful monkey bread, of which neither kid would touch.  Turns out it was for the best as I ate most of it myself :)

Those Christmas morning minutes are so fleeting, its hard to capture memories.  Everything happens so fast and there aren't many opportunities to sit back and just enjoy the moment.  I wish I could just yell "FREEZE" and have everything pause.  Next year there will be three little monsters rushing down the stairs.  Hope Santa can keep up with their expectations!