{ AL the Elf } a Christmas Eve tradition

All of my life we celebrated Christmas Eve at my Grandpa Mose's house. We don't have the biggest family, but it was always SO much fun. My brother and our cousin Rockey are the same age, and my cousin Samantha and I are pretty close. So we always had a good time. It was tradition to open a present on Christmas Eve... and low and behold, it was pajamas, every year! ;) We loved it. I was always so stinkin' excited to open those Barney PJs. Haha.

So when I had kids, I knew I wanted to keep the tradition alive. Up until last year... we still spent every Christmas Eve with Grandpa and the rest of the clan. When he passed away in September, it was such heartache because he was the king of the fam. He held us together. He was always there, making the best of everything. Christmas, or any other holiday, would never be the same. And it hasn't been. But we're tryin'. :)

Last year I added a little kick to the Christmas Eve pajamas.

This is how it rolls-

*someone knocks on the door*, Jax opens it, and WA LA! There are two presents sitting on the door step. Can you imagine his excitement? :)

One reads:

To: Jackson

From: Al the Elf

And the other:

To: Jentri

From: Al the Elf

{Couldn't figure that one out on your own, could ya?}

Attached is a letter that goes somethin' like this:

Dear Jackson and Jentri,
      I'm back again! If you don't remember the roll I play, let me quickly remind you. I am one of Santa's Elves, who to much of my delight, got assigned to you two! Every Christmas Eve I come to your house to do one last check for Santa. I know you have both been very good kids this year, but it isn't over yet... I have brought you each a pair of pajamas and a nice cozy blanket to make sure you get to bed on time. Don't worry, I have sprinkled some magic elf dust on them to be sure you won't wake up from a bad dream. So hurry quick and jump into your new nigh-nights. Mom will read your Christmas Story and off to fairyland you must go. Santa and the reindeer will be on their way soon so don't forget to sprinkle the reindeer food on the lawn and leave some cookies and milk for the big guy!
Love, Al the Elf

Simple, easy, cute, and it works WONDERS! :)

Of course you have to whip up some cookies and milk, and a little oatmeal and sprinkles for the reindeer, and you're good to go.

I love that it's an original tradition with a little kick.

I usually have my Mom or Brother knock for me and I'm sure even a neighbor wouldn't mind!