My Sweet Little Girl

I need to figure this girl out. She is so sweet, yet so stubborn and resistant to anything that is not in her immediate vision or plan for her life. We are working on it. Working on responding to her with love. Working on not using harsh words or threats with her, as these have little affect (besides that of digging in those stubborn heels). 

But tonight we shared some sweet moments, Alisa and I. We played the Headbanz game and she was just thrilled to have one on one time with me. Thrilled. Every card I put on my headband was met with her dramatic gasp and a great big smile. Every question I asked was answered, "Not even close!" She was just a darling and a sweetie and the Alisa that I know is in there during those frustrating moments with her. I love this girl to death and am so glad she's mine. Maybe her love language is time... one-on-one time together meant so much to her tonight, and I got to see that sweet baby of mine. I need to make the time to spend alone with her more often. 

Alisa with her buddy Emma after the Polar Express Musical production at school.

January 2014~Gilbert Temple Open House

Brooklyn had some money saved and decided on a whim to buy this little dog, which looks just like Denae Cuff's new little puppy. Super cute, but Brookie never played with it and gave it away eventually. 

Scott took the kids to the YMCA Kid's Day. They had a blast getting faces painted. 

The kids were missing snow and tried sliding down the ice patch instead. Ha. 

Tarah, mom, and I enjoyed a few free days of skiing at Snowbowl courtesy of Findlay Toyota. Drive a Toyota, get a free lift ticket on Wednesday! 

Lastly, we got to go to the beautiful Gilbert Temple Open House. It is such a lovely place. There was a peaceful spirit there. We made a weekend out of it and met the Seaman's, stayed at a hotel, and did some winter swimming and ate at the Rainforest Cafe (cool atmosphere, meh food). 

Jake's Night Ritual

So, if Jake wakes up to go to the bathroom, he sprints down the hall, into our room, turns in the dim light in our bathroom, relieves himself, turns off the light, and sprints back to his room. No matter what time of night (usually between 3-6am). Never mind that there's a bathroom across the hall from his room. It's hilarious to me that he doesn't sleepily stumble out. It's always at a run.

More Ice Skating

Scott went ice skating with the youth and brought Jake and Alisa. Alisa INSISTED on wearing this ice skating outfit, and just had a magical night in it!

Smarties

Just the kiddos getting all studious on me...

Seaman Ice Skating