Heinz Family Part 2!

Christmas Eve looked a little different for our family this year—but in the best way possible.

As Grandma Ket spent her first holiday in an assisted living home, we pivoted and found a new place to gather, bringing our annual Christmas Eve celebration to The Finery Event Center on Main. After Christmas Eve Mass, we filled the space with laughter and the warmth that only this wild family can bring. The bright, cozy setting was perfect for our large crew, even if it was hard not to feel like someone was missing.

Just when we needed a little extra magic, Santa Claus paid us a visit. Leo received a skating rink set for his village, and Bodhi was thrilled with a brand-new pair of bongos. The kids’ excitement was contagious, and soon everyone was smiling a little bigger.

The night was filled with party games, lots of laughs, and our favorite tradition—the White Elephant gift exchange which both Noah and Willow are now old enough to participate in—which wrapped up the evening perfectly.

When we finally arrived home, the bigger kids jumped right in to help rearrange the presents under the tree. Together with Leo, we set out cookies and milk, making sure everything was just right for Santa’s arrival.