There has been nary a free moment in the past week or so. My husband surprised me with my early Christmas gift – he flew Colin here.   : )   Besides that, there have been dance performances (3), a talent show, and a birthday for Tess.  She is five now and requested a party with friends this year.  We invited two sweet sisters for cake and homemade games one afternoon last week.  

A slightly snow-covered castle and very pink cupcakes courtesy of her big sister. 

Pin the tail….

And a pinata, which was a first for us.   The birthday day turned out to be dark and stormy so we took advantage of the stairway. 

Daddy was not going to miss the party so he took off work to come have lunch with her. 

The party goers wrapping up their afternoon, sans shoes and with a silly little sister face from Abbie.   A very nice day all around.  

I apologize that I am behind on blog mail (as well as wrapping gifts, shopping, and a number of other things ; ))  Bear with me please.  We have another son and his friend arriving soon and will have a very full house for a few weeks.