The kids are in bed, the fire has died, and the last of the presents are all finally wrapped and under the tree. It’s 11:35pm on Christmas Eve.

We did pretty well—mainly because this year we didn’t have anything that required construction. Downstairs we’ve got all the essentials for a Christmas morning with two young children at the ready: a camera and flash with charged batteries, coffee ready to brew, and wire cutters.

The excitement of the last couple of days has been all too much for our boy who fell fast asleep as soon as his head hit the pillow. The Girl, though… she had a tough time getting to sleep, so in awe is she of the magic of Christmas.

Truth be told, I’m probably not going to be able to sleep very easily either. Being awakened on Christmas morning by children who believe in magic and see all the world full of wonder and beauty and without a hint of cynicism—and being able to see that world through their eyes—is a rare and precious and fleeting gift.