Yup, my first Christmas Eve on the job.

I’ve officially taken my workaholism to a new level.

But in all seriousness, I honestly can’t think of anyone else I’d rather drag my groggy, sleep-deprived tush out the door on Christmas Eve for than them.

We baked Sienna a cake; cuddled under the Christmas tree; tried to make Sienna eat said cake (the operative word being tried); and overall just did our usual thang of hanging out and following the kids in whatever they wanted to do. Oh, and I officially feel old as I have no clue what’s the deal with the whole Elf on a Shelf thing other than they like to do naughty things and people like to take pictures of them doing naughty things. I felt inclined to join in on the fun of photographing the cute little dolls so while we were all taking a snack break, I picked up their Noel and placed him carefully on the table in better light so I could capture him in the act of ‘mischievously eating a cookie.’ Avery exclaimed ‘You can’t touch him! You’ll take away his magic!!!!” MAJOR FAIL SUZY. MAJOR FAIL. I felt like I spilled the beans that Santa isn’t real for a moment.. in a panic I quickly replied back, “Oh no worries, I have lots of magic in my… camera!” doh! Note to self, get hip with Elf on the Shelf rules and regulations stat.

Other than my Elf on a Shelf faux pas, I had an absolute blast spending time with this family and I honestly am just so thankful that at my job I’m able to equally partake in making my own good memories (though another note to self, hire a photographer to capture any holidays I work in the future for my own keepsake).

Anyway, a few highlights of my Christmas Eve with the Buckleys  and a big happy birthday Sienna!!! Enjoy! XOXO

above: I’m sorry, I had to include this because let’s face it.  If you’ve ever tried to photograph your child under 2 either (1) sitting on Santa’s lap or (2) wearing a birthday hat while eating birthday cake (obviously we tried the latter) then you totally get this shot. “Here! Just try it and you’ll figure out you love it!” (never works) 

above: why are zebra costumes always so much more comfortable than pretty dresses?