Christmas Eve has always been my favorite part of the holiday. From traditions passed down in my family to this year.

This year we will be at our home for the first time. Our daughter is 15 months old and we will be starting our traditions as a family. We used to go to my parent's home but this year they are coming up for Christmas Day.

My wife is cooking a large pork shoulder dinner(Spanish style), complete with a variety of sides (macaroni and cheese, sweet potatoes, other veggies etc. Dessert TBA, but decadent. (My father is bringing his desserts up on Christams Day)

Back to Christmas Eve. We will go to the Children's Mass at 5, drive and look at some lights and go home so we can enjoy the feast. Afterwards, play with our daughter, maybe show her The Grinch or Dora (her favorite), put her to bed and then my wife and I will relax by the fireplace and tree lights with some wine and movies.