The last couple of weeks were busy for me. I’ve been shopping like a madwoman for the holidays. With kids in tow, I am only able to work my way through my Christmas-list a little at a time. My longest stint at the mall was last Tuesday…when the kiddies and I spent 10 hours at Valley Fair! Scary, huh? Surprisingly, both girls were extremely well behaved and that made my job so much easier.
I actually think Ashlyn and Summer enjoy these outings….the bustling crowds, the delightful sounds and smells, the festive energy….so much to absorb. 
Yesterday my mom asked me to do some shopping for her, so the kiddies and I spent another long day at the mall.
I’m finally finished with all of my shopping and wrapping. It’s a good feeling to be able to accomplish such a feat all by myself (although it would have been more fun being able to share it with Aric).
I’m feeling quite proud (as you can tell). Oh, hell yeah! A little over a year ago, when Aric first left for his project in Taiwan, I didn’t think I could handle taking care of Ashlyn alone. But look at me now. WOOHOO!!! 
Today I spent the day hanging out with my nieces. We had lunch in Japantown, checked out Christmas in the Park , and went ice skating. It was really fun!
We spent a cozy evening at home watching TV and playing Monopoly. You know you’ve been playing too long when you run out of play-money and have to make your own. HAHAHAHA!
My two girls are really enjoying eachother. Ashlyn is the best big sister: she’s helpful, patient, encouraging, and very loving. Summer is so much fun: she’s smiley, sweet, interactive, and a force to be reckoned with. Together, they laugh and play and wrestle and hug. It’s the cutest thing!
I can’t believe it’s the eve of Christmas Eve! *squeal!* Can’t wait!
December 24th, 2004 at 12:33 pm
have a wonderful Christmas