Party for the girls' daycare bunch..

I suppose it's because I don't have much else going on lately.... I decided to host the girls' daycare/ after school kids in our home for a Christmas party.

JinJin came over, because she had picked the girls up from dancing for me and even brought Madi over to partake in the festivities as well. This, by the way, is Bryce.... one of Ellie's most favorite people in the world.

And this is Bentley. He is a whole big ol chunk of love.

I started with a fairly simple free for all art project so I could have them come to me one by one so I could get their thumbprints for an ornament we were making for their moms.

Ellie seemed to be pretty happy with her outcome. And this is one of Ellie's best friends, Chloe.

Madi came on over after dancing. Ellie is always glad to see her cousin, and the feeling seems to be mutual.

That little guy in the navy is Peyton. He is one of Gabbi's best buds.

And then came time for the props! I just provided them, and let them choose whatever struck their fancy! Here' s Nate.

and Katie.

and Ellie.

and Peyton.

and Gabbi.

and Chloe.

and Bryce.

and Kinsler.

and Bentley. and Bentley again.

I had fun setting them up with the props.

And these are the thumbprint ornaments we ended up making for their mamas.

Then came present time!! Always the best part for a bunch of little ones.

This is Candy. She is Miss Donna's daughter, and Chloe's mama.

She was off work today, so it was nice to have the extra set of hands for the party.

I suppose you can see where Ellie has nestled herself. Right between the two "big kids" who come over after school. And most particularly, right next to BRYCE!

Miss Gabbi got a set of dominoes and excused herself from the party to set them all up on the table and start stacking and totally isolating herself, because.... she just wanted to!

Good ol' Miss Donna. My girls have another mama in her. She is so loving and gentle with them. She has taught Gabs to sit on the potty, and she has their breakfast all ready for them everyday. They do art projects, and Ellie can write all of her letters and many numbers.

I am SOOOO glad that I made the decision to forego daycare this year and just have her stay with Miss Donna!! I couldn't be happier! I am very grateful for Miss DOnna..

and I am also very grateful for this awesome view! I love this time of year.

Oh, and thanks so much to Jessi who designed my new blog banner. I love it, how bout you?!

Mo