{ Jazz game }

We had a busy few days leading up to the Christmas festivities. On December 21st Ayden had his first Jazz game performance. He was really excited to be a member of the Mini Jazz team this year. He has worked really hard and improved a lot on his tumbling skills which are a requirement for the team. They practice every Saturday for 2 hours and also practice on the Jazz floor each game day for over an hour. They have to be there really early which makes for along day.

We had an early morning practice at the ESA last week and while they were practicing Paul Millsap came in and asked Courtney if he could shoot some hoops while they were rehearsing. Ayden got a little side tracked and found it hard to focus with a huge dude playing basketball just a few feet away from him.

{ early morning practice }

After they practice on game day we walk over to Gateway for dinner before we come back to the dressing room to get ready. This time we ate at Jason's Deli.

{ Sadie, Courtney and Ayden }

It was a little boring waiting for the girls to get ready since Ayden is so fast. But they sure do look cute when they are all done.

{ Top row: Keely, Sydney, Courtney, Sadie Baylee, Olivia }

{ Bottom row: Lou Lou, Lauryn, Jenna, Kendal, Ayden, Brooklyn, Dasia }

{ Courtney giving them a pep talk }

{ Another pep talk and an encounter with the Bear }

{ Waiting for the timeout }

{ Lined up and waiting for the music to start. (he looks so tiny on that big floor) }

I caught a little part on video but it's hard to see. Ayden is right in the middle.

{ A very proud Mama }

It is a really long day but I'm thankful for this opportunity that Ayden has to perform. That was always my favorite part and I hope he finds the joy in it. We are looking forward to the next game on January 2nd when Nana and Papa will be there!