Busy, Busy Week

     Whew!!!  What a week it has been!  This week is usually one of the busiest we have all year.  Last Friday, Ashlyn had a program at school and a little party.  It was unbelievably cute.  Her teachers always do an amazing job putting together programs for the parents.  The program was at 3:00 and I don't technically get off until 3:00.  I promised Ashlyn I would race out of work and try to get there in time.  I did manage to get there right at 3:00 and when I walked in, her cute little face popped up from one of the seats.  She said, "Mom I saved you a seat right in the front."  It was so sweet and melted my heart!

       This weekend was a whirlwind of activity.  On Saturday night we had my surprise party (see previous post).  On Sunday morning, we finally did something that I have wanted to do since Ashlyn was a baby, we got professional pictures taken.  Booking outdoor pictures in December can be iffy.  However, Sunday was absolutely gorgeous.  We couldn't have asked for a better day.  We loved the photographer and she took some amazing shots.  The kids really cooperated.  We loved our experience compared to portrait studios.  She posted some preview pictures on Facebook and I could not be any happier with the pictures.  They are just amazing.  We are awaiting the cd this week.  I can't wait and I know the hard part will be picking which ones to print!  Joey and I have decided to start getting professional pictures taken twice a year now.  Totally worth the extra money in my opinion.  I will post some pictures when the cd comes. The rest of Sunday  was spent watching football and spending time with family. 

      This week we have been very busy getting ready for Christmas.  Ashlyn and I have been making crafts and cookies like crazy.  We are running out of time.  She goes to school the next two days which is too bad because we won't be able to do anything those days.  We tried to take advantage of the time we had.  I have been very busy finishing up my shopping (which I also just started this week) and completing final preparations for Christmas.  Christmas excitement is definitely all around.  I am so excited to see the kids on Christmas morning.  Our Elf has also been very busy this week with lots of mischief.  I think we will all be very sad to see him go on Christmas Eve. 

One morning we found Eddy Buddy reading a story to all of the animals.  It was a new elf book that Ashlyn loved. 

Dawson being a silly boy

I didn't get a good picture because the flash was on, but one morning we found that Eddie Buddy had drawn the family portrait.  Ashlyn thought that this was the funniest thing in the world.

The next day, Eddie was naughty.  He got into the cookies that we baked for Ashlyn's school.  Luckily, he just ate one.

Ashlyn at her program singing.

They all got to hear a story.

Performing her song.  I couldn't get a good shot because Ashlyn was at a bad spot.

Cute!

She loves school so much.

They gave parents a pin with their picture on it.

Ashlyn very excited to eat her cookies.

Ashlyn with her friends.

Ashlyn couldn't believe that Eddie Buddy and all the Toy Story toys built this castle all by themselves. 

Ashlyn working hard on her craft project. 

Her finished product.  She loved doing the lacing.

Working on another project.

I think this tree turned out so cute with her hands.

Eddie Buddy must really be getting tired from all of his trips back and forth to the North Pole. We found him resting. 

Ashlyn and I have been making a lot of cookies for various events.  She is a great little helper.

Look at her go.  She's a pro!

This may be one of his craziest tricks yet!  He turned the chaise lounge on its side! I would say he's a strong little elf.