opening overflowing stockings was allowed as soon as everyone woke up. they were filled with mostly trinkets, but so much fun. and there was always an orange or tangerine in the toe... a throwback to the depression era when fruit was not readily available. then there was a special family breakfast. everyone then retired to the living room for the opening of presents handed out one-by-one by santa's helper. everyone always watched each gift be opened and made nice comments about it. then it was time to dress in our matching outfits, lovingly created by mom and we piled in the car to the short ride to grandma's. she only had a tiny tree, but the dinner was always remarkable.
the tradition is somewhat the same now, except that i have to go to the DGKs house predawn to watch them open their stockings and gifts. there is always such a delight on their faces. they come to my house for dinner in the afternoon.