What's in your Christmas Eve Box?

It's our very first year of introducing a Christmas Eve box. We thought it would be a nice tradition for the children to enjoy the night before Christmas.

We didn't want it to be something too big or a huge expense so Oscar and Lottie have a box to share with a few little treats.

I managed to pick this festive tin from Homebargains for £1.99 to store all their treats, shall we take a look inside?

There are some cheeky little elves inside, one each of course, these cute little cuddlies were just 99p from Card Factory and a sweet festive soft toy.

We placed cotton will balls inside the tin to create an effect of snow. Underneath the snow is some reindeer food which we made with the children (simply rolled oats and glitter) we will be placing this in a bowl for Santa's reindeer and then discarding it so local wildlife don't try and feast upon it (the specks of glitter can damage their digestive systems, so we won't be sprinkling it on the lawn)

We love this activity because it encourages the whole imagination and getting the children involved in the build up to Christmas Day.

As we delve further we have a key for Santa, we don't have a chimney so of course Santa is going to need a way in. The key has a little Santa attached so it's clear to the children who it's for.

Finally what would a Christmas Eve box be without some sweeties, we opted for a chocolate reindeer lolly and cookie each as snacks to have with a cup of milk before bed. 

We didn't opt for a fresh set of pyjamas as the kids already have their favourite nightwear and we didn't want to spend a fortune on filling the box up. Oscar's all time favourite We're Going On A Bear Hunt is broadcasting this evening at 7.30pm on Channel 4, so we skipped on purchasing a Christmas movie too. We absolutely cannot wait to watch it and then have our Santa's plate to place a mine pie, carrot and a drink on before heading up to bed.

We feel so grateful, as our wonderful friends also gifted us a Christmas Eve family box full of treats, including handmade and framed candy cane fingerprints from the children, a  gorgeous wooden 'Santa Please Stop Here' door hanger, personalised scented candles and hot chocolate for us all, so we've been truly spoilt this year. I think I love this one even more because it's been so lovingly and thoughtfully put together.

Merry Christmas to everyone, we hope you all have a magical day tomorrow with family and loved ones.