The stockings were hung

Having grown up with a Catholic mother, my siblings and I hung our stockings each December 5 in anticipation of a visit by St. Nick. We were always greeted the next morning with small treats and goodies.

The tradition continues in our house. And the kids were thrilled he had stopped by last night.

Trace's favorite treats were those with wheels - a John Deere tractor and a Thomas the Train engine.

The girls kept themselves busy beautifying with the Hello Kitty lipsticks and Disney Princess hair glitter wands they received. A little glam circle convened in the living room and everyone got the treatment (and a bath and shampoo afterward).