Saturday, November 24, 2007

Living Without Jill

Jill Johnson is a really good friend of ours in Las Vegas, who was so sweet and would spend mid November to mid December taking pictures of families in the ward for Christmas cards. It was so nice to have her around- I never had to worry about taking the kids in for professionals- Jill came to my house, or we went to hers.



This year we had to do with out Jill Johnson Originals- and it was very depressing. I kept thinking I should take the kids in and get pictures done- but I wanted the more relaxed atmosphere- and didn't want to have to pay too much.





I finally decided I should try and do it myself- I did just get a really nice new camera that does lot's of cool things- I don't know how to do the cool things, I just push the button!



Today I took the girl's out in the garage and started clicking away- and realized how patient Jill is. I was almost yelling by the time we were done because my kids were whining and not cooperating.

I took a break and had Darrell come help for a minute and was happy to get a few that I really liked. Once I calmed down- the kids were much happier and had real smiles instead of the ones they make when I say SMILE- in a grouchy voice.



We had a great Thanksgiving, and had a lot of fun shopping Friday morning. I was a little disappointed in the ad's- usually there is more we need- but I guess I can't be spoiled every year! We had a babysitter come over at 4:00- she was showered and everything! The first stop was Kohl's- but the line was way too long for our one item. We went to Wal- Mart next, the big purchase this year is a new 42 inch flat screen- we were happy to not have to fight too hard to get it. The next stop was Toys R Us, and we had to wait outside for 25 in minutes in 18 degree weather! It was so cold, but worth the wait to get the few things we needed. There was one of those grouchy people behind us complaining the whole time. If you don't want to deal with the crowd's and wait in the cold- DON"T COME!! It's so much more enjoyable for the rest of us to not have you complaining behind us! The next stop was Target- oh how I miss having Target so close! We got a few things- the line was crazy though! There is only one Target- so there were probably about 40 people in each line! There were no parking spots- people were parking along the sidewalk. We got home after another quick stop at Wal Mart- again. Every year we bring the kids home donuts and they were excited to have a morning of playing with a babysitter, and then getting donuts. By 11:00 I was ready for a nap!

7 comments:

i said...

you did great Alissa! I especially like the girls sitting in a row between legs against the blue back drop. so cute!

Lish Fish said...

You did a great job on the pictures. I love them, they are getting so big!!

Castiel Moyes said...

Don't you LOVE Black Friday! I was excited to be with my in-laws because my mother-in-law is CRAZY!!! We were up at 3:45 to hit the sales. We got lots of fun things but we didn't get to pick up a flat screen! jealous.

Jill Johnson said...

They look good. I bet you would be alot more patient if they weren't your kids!! Just ask mine. I need your new adress for Christmas cards. If you want to email it to me I would appreciate it.

Jennie Z said...

Cute pictures, but that's what you have to expect with such cute girls!
Black Friday has got to be one of my favorite days of the year!

Stephanie said...

Adorable pictures! I know I say this everytime, but I can't believe how big your kids are! Especially Lexie...

You're so good to hit the stores. I still haven't mustered up the courage to try it. I went to Joanne's on Saturday and after I looked at the line that was all the way to the back of the store, I decided I didn't need anything and walked out!

Heidi said...

No worries Alissa--your pictures turned out great!! At least all the girls are smiling :)

Sounds like you scored some good deals on Black Friday. Sorry I don't share in everyone's love of that day....can't believe you had a babysitter at 4am!! Did she charge you extra?