Christmas 2007

This was Ashlyn's first Christmas where she kind of knew what was going on. It was a lot of fun for us to shop for her and to watch her un-wrap and play with her presents. Both of our families spoiled us quite a bit, and it made it a pretty happy Christmas (I love giving and getting stuff). We spent Christmas Eve with the Talleys and Christmas Day with the Hansens.
Both of these pictures were taken on the night we went tree shopping 3 weeks ago.
Grandpa is testing Ashlyn and Izzy on their alphabet knowledge
High Five. Ashlyn can identify: I, S, T, O, N, M, P, B, A, L, R, U, E, and F
Ashlyn stills loves babies. She was having a good time pushing Gabri in the swing.
And giving Gabri kisses on Aunt Kellie's lap. Gabri gives some pretty juicy ones. Ashlyn and Izzy listening to a Christmas Story. I think Izzy wants a bite of Ashlyn's corn.After getting done sitting and dancing on the box, Ashlyn decided to open her basketball hoop from Grandma and Grandpa Talley. (Dad can't wait to play with this toy).

Christmas Eve at the Hansens. Here is Ash's Pony from Grandma and Grandpa Hansen. She is a little afraid of riding it to start with, but I will give her a few lessons and show her how to ride.
Kyle, Adrienne, and Hayden. Hayden is about where Ashlyn was last year: really interested in the boxes as tools for standing and in the colors of the ribbons. He'll be a Christmas pro next year.
Amanda with Ashlyn. Ashlyn loved this bus that Stef put in her stocking. Stef got it at a work white elephant party. Amanda's favorite gift has got to be her engagement ring - way to go Matt. I just wish Amanda was marrying someone I could beat at Madden 2005.
We got her this baby that talks and makes sucking sounds when Ashlyn puts something in her mouth. This will get her ready for when she has a little sibling.
Here is Ashlyn sharing her keyboard with Hayden. She loves to dance to the tunes that play on the demo. Kyle called her "Lord of the Dance". She gets her moves from me.
Ashlyn had a lot of fun with her cousins Hayden and Finn. Both of them are going to get to know Ash as the kissing cousin.
It took her a while, but Ashlyn finally got through the many presents she had under the tree. She was a little more interested in the toys than she was in the clothes, even though she got some dang cute clothes.

Overall Christmas was a pretty special one this year. Stef, Ashlyn, and I are blessed with great families and friends. We really love the holiday season because of the time we get to spend with them. I love Stefanie and Ashlyn so much, and really feel like I lucked out in life. We are looking forward to an even better year in 2008. Is that possible?