Doll Clothes

When my very talented mother-in-law was in town, we spent some time making some doll clothes for the girls. They each have an 18 inch doll, and we have found the pre-made clothes to be outrageously expensive. But of course, Addy and Alexis both needed some pajamas, so thanks to Grandma Cindy, they each got a pair of pj's and a robe...for a great price. I actually sewed the pair for Addy- with a lot of guidance! (The robe was a bit out of my league!) Doing this little project reminded me of how much I love creating things. Add "making doll clothes" to my list of things I'd like to do!

MeeMaw and PaPaw

That's what Texans call their grandparents! Anyway, we had a great visit from Grandpa Steve and Grandma Cindy this past weekend! It was so fun to have them come visit us here in Texarkana. The only bummer was the cold weather...it seems like whenever we brag about our wonderful weather and people come to see for themselves, it gets cold!!!! Oh well. The girls had such a good time and loved being adored!

Perfection

The other night I was thanking Ashton for doing her chores and being so responsible. She replied, "I'm just the perfect little girl with the perfect little life." Oh brother! Let's see if she still feels that way in ten years....

Backyardigans Birthday Bash and more!

Here are a few pictures from Jordan's Birthday weekend. On Saturday we had a Backyardigans birthday party for her. She and I had a lot of fun working on her party plans together, and we made a bean bag toss that the kids really loved. At the party, the kids made puppets and necklaces. Then we had presents and the traditional cake and ice cream. Jordan doesn't like when all eyes are on her, so during the singing she took off and snuggled onto Dad's lap until it was over!

Sunday morning (her actual birthday), she found a Dora bike out in the living room. She was so excited! Our plan had been to give the girls big bikes on their 5th birthdays, but Jordan was way too big for her little bike, so we broke down and got her one this year...besides who knows when someone with a January birthday could actually receive and use a bike...probably not in most places (like Iowa or Utah!). We then went to church and came home for a birthday lunch and more presents. Jordan had chosen "peesketti" for her meal, which is one of her favorite foods. All in all, it was a lot of fun and Jordan is so glad to be 4!!!!

Birthday Girl!

I am tired out...but I couldn't let the day pass without wishing my Jordan a happy 4th birthday! We have had a very fun weekend celebrating her special day. I will post lots of pictures soon. We always say that Jordan has an "old spirit" in a little person's body...she is thoughtful and loving, can be stubborn but is usually happy and laid back. She is a good little buddy and great to have around. She is such an important part of our family. Right after Ashton was born, I had the strongest impression that another spirit was waiting in the wings, ready to come...and Jordan was born just 19 months later. Happy Birthday Beanie!

My Siblings

Yesterday, my siblings did something very special for me...and it made me feel very loved and supported. We have had many good times together...and have also been through some hard things...but we have stuck together. On New Years Day, my siblings and families gathered for our annual Italian Dinner which is held in memory of my mom...I truly wish I could have been there. In each of my siblings, I see qualities of my mom- Katy's generous spirit, Melissa's festive homemaking and hospitality, and Chris's faithful, loving ways. Anway, I love you guys...thank you for loving me. I miss you all. Thanks again!!

Something homemade...

Every Christmas, I always have a million ideas for gifts I would love to make...this year was no exception and I had many more ideas than time or resources. But the difference was, this year I did actually make a few of the gifts that I wanted too!!! I made each of the girls a tied fleece blanket, memory photo boards for the girls' teachers and travel activity bags for my niece and nephews. I would like to follow the tradition of making something homemade for the girls each Christmas...but only time will tell!

Back to School

Wow, 2008!! I can hardly believe it. I just got back from taking Ashton to school...it's funny how two weeks ago I was wondering what on earth I was going to do with her for the whole Christmas break...now I'm wondering how I'm going to adjust to her being gone all day again. I am already missing her. It really has been nice to have her around...especially because she is such a good playmate. Since Christmas, she and Jordan have played, and played, and played. Ashton woke up early this morning and got all ready...she seemed excited to be heading back to school, but I could tell she was nervous because she has this little habit where she taps her left feet...and she was tapping this morning. Oh, life is about adjustments! Well, since the kids are getting back to their normal routines, I guess I better get into mine....laundry, cooking, cleaning, etc.! Happy January!