Christmas Shopping Extravagaza!

My Parents and I went to Provo to do our Christmas shopping. Crazy packed stores and high prices. This little boy made it all worth it. He was 5 or 6 and playing Christmas songs. He wasn't like this gifted kid (maybe in guts) he just played like a well practiced kid with talent would. He was so cute! He had to have made a ton of money because tons of people, even me, were pouring in the change and cash into the box. I loved listening to him, he played religious and commercial Christmas songs. With this and my parents good spirits this shopping experience was great! We had fun and spent lots of money on people we love. I love the Holidays!!

We finally blessed Tatum on Saturday. I say finally because we were suppose to bless her on fast Sunday but she got RSV and was in the hospital for three days. (expensive!) So we had to wait. Thanks to the family on both sides because it turned out really great! Everyone helped set up and take care of food, so it was pretty easy for me. Jared on the other had was just a little stressed. He doesn't like speaking if public...in fact he hates it. He was pretty nervous but did an amazing job! During the opening prayer Tatum got this strained look on her face, I just knew it was gas! Oh, no she was going to be one of those babies that cry through the whole blessing. (sorry if Any one's did) When Jared picked her up she calmed right down and my grandpa said that she just sat there, looked at every one's eyes and smiled. I defiantly think the veil is thin for children. I'm so proud of both Jared and Tatum and fell in love with everyone all over again! I am so grateful for a wonderful man that is worthy to hold the priesthood. It's so comforting to know that I can count on him to perform these ordinances. I'm so blessed.

Elisa has all the pics of the blessing so sorry I'll post 'em later

Life lessons

So, I get this email from one of my dancer's mom. She writes to me telling me that her 5 yr old puts up a fight to go to dancing and she doesn't know what to do. She wants to pull her out but is concerned about having to pay for the costume I just ordered.

The thing is the dancer is completely fine, I had no idea there was a problem, she laughs, works hard and is really talented. She seems to enjoy class when she is there. I am strongly against quiting something in the middle of the year or season. I believe that if you let them quit something they have started your teaching them that they don't have to be responsible, dependable or work hard. Commitment is important to me and I don't think a 5 yr old should be calling the shots with her tantrums. I know it's tiring to fight with them but really, whose the boss? One of the reason's I feel so strongly about this is because once they perform, it's a different story. They want the performance without the hard work, and dancing is work and fun. I'm a new mom and haven't' had to experience these things with my kids yet, but I hope I can have enough energy to not give in, isn't it easier in the end? Not only do I want to teach my students how to dance but also how to be good people and quiting is something that will prevent them from great experiences when they are adults. What do you think, and how do I go about confronting the mom without offending her?

Cousins

Over Thanksgiving we went to Grand Junction to get the cousin's pictures taken at Sears. This is pretty much what happened...

Calvin was hungry so Jared's brother was feeding him gram crackers on the side.

Ellah was distracted by Calvin and Hadlee and would not smile.

Tatum just hung out (literally)

Maybe when there are like 20 we'll get descent pictures.

"Good Times"

Tinydancer

So, I keep telling myself that Tatum can be whatever she wants to be whether it's a jock or hunter, whatever. But I love putting her in Ballet and dance gear! Is she doomed or destined to be a dancer? I want her to choose but when your in the environment can you choose for yourself? I think my mom did a great job in exposing us to different things when we were young. I took piano lessons, played volleyball, basketball, baseball, swimming, I sang and read and cooked and sewed. But dance took over, I was and still are consumed by it. So is my little Tatum going to be a dancer and if she isn't will I be hurt? I think only a little. My goal is to expose her to everything until she decides for herself. I hope I can achieve it!