Shopping, swinging, SPRING

Ever since she was born, I have been amazed at the distinct personality traits Tori shares with each of her parents. One of the things she has in common with me is that she really hates to shop. Who can blame her? Well, unfortunately it's impossible to never go shopping, so we've had to devise tricks to make her excited about setting foot into any retail store. It's sometimes a challenge to find something about each store that will excite her, but we've learned that she loves to look at greeting cards (she even puts them back in the correct slot - even when I'm impatient she won't budge until she's found the correct place to put the card), anything brightly colored or that can be used as a maraca, and above all, books! (Yep, proof yet again that she is Tim's and my daughter.) Therefore, trips to Costco are now one of her favorite outings. As soon as we enter the store, we head straight to the book section where she picks up several books to read. After the shopping trip, we go back to the book section where she puts the books back, and then we're off! No (or very little) crying, fussing, or grumpiness from either Mom or Tori!

This is last weeks shopping trip to Costco. Tori made herself comfortable by laying back, putting her feet up, and getting "lost" in a good book.

Despite reports of snow and cold from "other" places in the world, we are enjoying rain, sunshine, moderate temperatures, budding trees, blooming flowers, and green everywhere! I'm telling you, I could stay here forever based entirely on the weather! Between rainstorms, we are enjoying walks and visits to the park with Tori.

She loves to swing. We have found that she will swing whenever she's feeling insecure about other kids at the playground. We assume it's because she can still play, yet be by herself until she feels comfortable with whatever is happening around her. (And let's face it, I'm scared of some of the kids we see at the park, too!)

Last Sunday we had Stake Conference. Our Stace Center is next to the Oakland Temple. Here are some images of how pretty it is here right now.

Tori's favorite part of Stake Conference was playing by the fountains outside the temple. We had to leave with her screaming because she wanted to swim in them. Not to worry, little Tori. Swimming season is fast approaching!