Keeping Warm in January

I have mentioned in previous "January" posts just how much I loathe the stupid month. I'm usually depressed because the holidays are over, it's bitter cold outside, and my home suddenly becomes a cesspool of infection. The worst part is that Spring seems so far away. Who am I kidding? Spring IS so far away! This year's January has lived up to its name in most cases, but it hasn't been all bad. I hit up my two favorite sales of the year- Bath and Body Works' semi-annual, and Old Navy's "Extra Strength Cleanser"- 50% off already reduced items. I know that seems kind of trivial- but truly, these two sales clean, moisturize, and dress my whole family for the entire year. And I'm lucky enough to live in a town with several locations of both stores. I'm not sure Trenton views our proximity to my favorite stores as lucky, but he knows not to complain when this time of year rolls around. Other than shopping, we have been doing everything possible to try and stay warm and healthy. In addition to the two rounds of pink eye our family endured at the beginning at the month, I also caught an upper respiratory infection, which caused a sinus infection, bronchitis, and pneumonia. I am knocking wood with my non-typing hand as I say how thankful I am to be healthy again. Maybe I can actually get back to the gym. One of my kids' favorite ways to warm up from a chilly day at the park is to hop in the tub. Our water bill is up a bit from the recent 2 bath a day minimum, but sometimes that's the only way to thaw your bones during this freezing month.

I am so thankful that my kids love music as much as I do. I was recently called as my ward's choir director, and they fully enjoy dancing around to the music during the practices, and of course, listening to me as I teach piano and voice to my nieces and nephews.

I wasn't able to keep up with the teaching schedule I had last year, so I am especially grateful for Jessica, Stephen, Lindsay, and Emma. They are always patient with me, and I know they truly love learning music.

Speaking of Doug and Christy's kids...They built this fort while they were babysitting Emma and Ben. When we got home they were all cuddled up under it watching a movie. I just think it's crazy that it was only 8 or 9 years ago that I was babysitting Stephen and Jess and I was the one making forts for them. I am thankful Emma and Ben have so many cousins to play and grow up with. I never had that.

Trenton and I took Emma ice-skating for the first time a couple weeks ago. She was so excited! We let her watch the USA Olympic skaters as they trained in hopes that would get her even more excited.


But as soon as we got her on the ice she freaked out. The only way we could keep her on the ice was letting her walk in her shoes.

But then we got kicked off the ice for allowing her to wear her street shoes. I am so glad it was free!


I really can't blame her for being afraid. Up until now, she has done everything to maintain her balance and avoid slippery surfaces. There are so many inconsistencies in this world! But one thing that is always consistent- I LOVE THAT GIRL!

Until next time,

Janet, Trenton, Emma, and Ben