Monkey See Monkey Do

Before I get into the "oh so long" post I will have about Christmas, I had to post a few pictures of our most recent doings. Ashlyn has always shown interest in climbing onto stuff but just couldn't quite get onto the couch or kitchen chairs. Well in the last few weeks that has quickly changed. We can not only pop right up on the kitchen table, but we ONLY want to sit at the big girl table now. Thank goodness for distractions and a short attention span. My little monkey is a climber.

Ashlyn loves tomatoes...but we have a new love, salsa. As if she doesn't look it, she truly is Matt's daughter!

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Visit with Santa

So our visit went a little something like this......

First, there was suprisingly no line- awesome! I walk Ashlyn up to Santa as she proceeds to hang onto my arm as hard as possible and goes, "uuuuuhhhhh" in a scared silly tone. Being the nice mommy, I did not sit her on his lap and walk away. I sat down next to santa while she looked back at him scared for her life then jumping up clinging to mommy. He handed her a bendable reindeer, which went straight to her mouth to chew on. Finally Matt came over to rescue her off my lap and santa kindly (but grumpily, as seen to the left) stood up for one last picture. Poor little girl about had a heart attack.

As we left we sat Ashlyn in front of santa land for a picture. Once she realized the world of amazement around her she jumped up smiling and started running from christmas tree, to gingerbread man, to each fake candy toy. Finally running out into the hall to wave at everyone as they walked by. Suck a stinker, guess Santa's workshop is just way more exciting this year.

Such a cutie in Christmas Red!

14 Months

I forgot to post Ashlyn's 14 Month update after Thanksgiving. Ashlyn has always been a lap baby, and loves being close to people. It seems like lately she is even more fond of sitting in your lap for story time and constantly running over for a hug or to be held. I do not mind one bit, I love smothering her with hugs and kisses every chance I get.

She has started crying or getting upset when Matt or I leave without her, even if it's just to run outside. Still no stranger anxiety though, she talks/waves/goes to anyone who will let her. Not sure if that's a good or bad thing!

Ashlyn is also starting to repeat a lot of what we say. She doesn't always get the whole word out, but I can understand what she is saying. Like for yogurt she says, 'yu", and Zeke (the neighbors dog) she goes "eee". She'll stare at my mouth while I talk and then repeat the inflection of my voice and try to repeat it. She can also put 2 words together like, "Hi, Bai-yee" (for Bailey) It's fun and super cute.

We had our first snow fall this morning, which means winter is officially here. Going to have to find some new activities to fill the attention span of a 14 month olds time with. Ideas????

On a side note, we have the house all decorated for Christmas. I am so proud of our tree. We got a killer deal on it at the end of last season. 9 ft. pre-lite tree for only $150. Woo Hoo!!! Makes the living room feel cheerful and homey.

Giving Thanks

We have so much to be Thankful for this year. Our happy and healthy beautiful daughter. Our health, our family, our home, and so so much more. We spent our first England Thanksgiving in NYC this year, creating new memories, but not forgetting or loving the old ones. Enjoy the photo highlights of our quick trip to New York City!

Thanksgiving started with the Macy's Day parade. Matt and Ashlyn are in awe of the huge balloons.

Even with the ladder we couldn't see much more than the balloons floating through the air. It is quite a site to see.

Our first time Brining the turkey. It was salty, moist and delicious!

The family enjoying a feast the pilgrams would be proud of!

Nothing like some hugs from Madison to top off an amazing meal!

Uncle Matt makes a really good pajama party wrestler.

Friday afternoon we meet up with our friends Andrew (matt's college roommate) and his wife Crista for some yummy BBQ.

At the end of it all there is nothing like heading back home. Sometimes I am the most thankful for my own pillow and bed to sleep in.

Our trip also included a late night visit to the Rockefeller Tree, checking out the department store christmas windows, a little shopping and a broadway show. I forgot my camera that night though...bummer! We already miss everyone, but luckily will see the family again in a few shorts weeks for Christmas!