12.28.2025

Christmas 2025

On Christmas Eve we had our 3rd annual "Christmas Eve Day Lunch Brunch Recital Punch" with all the Ashton cousins. We play a bunch of games like pass the parcel, knock the candy canes off and most importantly Bingo with the Money Tree.
Every time I think of adding more furniture to this part of the basement I remind myself that all the crazy running games wouldn't be possible if we closed it up!
Everyone gathered for Bingo!
New jammies and the annual Christmas pic of the stairs on Christmas Eve. We ate yummy appetizers, watched Claymation Christmas, played Bingo, did sibling gifts and stayed up way too late!
I have almost zero pictures from Christmas day but this about sums it up. Mallie and Lucy spent several hours building their little mini shops. They loved these things. Also, one of my favorite parts was when we had Ashton open a box full of ties. Each sibling had picked out a tie and written their name on the inside. Now when they see him in mission pictures they'll be able to see what they sent with him. It was pretty special as we all remembered it'll be a few years before everyone is gathered again for Christmas!

 

12.01.2025

Ashton turns 18

 Jeffrey invited Ashton to PAX unplugged (a board game convention) while we were staying at their house for Fall Break. He hesitated because it would fall over Ashton's 18th birthday. Ashton's was elated and he told him there's nowhere else he'd rather be on his birthday. They went to Philly and Ashton and his cousins had the best time.

Jeffrey spoiled him and brought brownies and a candle. Ashton said they worked the board game booth and then the boys just walked around playing games, painting mini figures and hanging out. I cannot believe how old these three are! 
On Ashton's birthday, Debbie sent me this picture. Holy smokes I love these kids and how close they are!