hogepodge

HaPpeNiNgS!

2012-01-12T18:03:00.003-07:00

It definitely has been awhile since I've been on here. No internet for a few months will definitely do that to you. But I haven't stopped taking pictures of my little gems.

Brooklyn has been so sweet lately! ...such a little helper and loving her mom. I truly am blessed to have her.

My little baby Will is growing up so fast! Here he is on his #2 Birthday! He LOVES to say "NO, MINE!" He talks so much now in 5-6 word sentences, likes to breakdance, give his mama kisses, and sleeps in his own big bed now. He puts himself in timeouts which is more than daily. He loves dinosaurs and motorbikes and shooting things with his bow and arrow or making anything into a bow and arrow! Sometimes I get frustrated with him and then he turns and looks at me with those big fat lips and green eyes and my little heart melts!

The Birthday Boy!

I had a wonderful night with these little ladies! Oh the history and craziness! Of course we would go Kareokeing and steal the show...of course we would no pride ourselves and not care what anyone thinks of us. They are hilarious.

Attempted a little photshoot...Thank goodness no one was around. I love it when things like this are suppose to be fun and happy and I end up forcing them to smile with no awareness that I even exist. But all in all they turned out better than I thought.

FINALLY

2011-07-31T22:51:00.002-06:00

It is an eternal struggle to get him to look at me when I take his picture. FINALLY, he did it! Can he get any cuter....I think not!

Good Times!!

2011-07-05T14:25:00.016-06:00

The 4th of July did not dissapoint this year!

This little Will-POP was so fun this weekend. He yelled my name 50 million times and threw about 789673642 rocks and sticks and equaled that in mosquito bites!

Lots of facepainting and dancing!!

We all thoroughly enjoyed taking family pics. Everyone loved every minute of it and no complained...not even once:)

We lit a few of these bad boys!

Uncle Yella provided much entertainment to this lil chickadee!

Some serious concentration here.

and here...

and the never ending Bear Lake!

I MISS YOU #2

2011-05-22T21:12:00.008-06:00

If I could be a 1/20 of these woman! It's really crazy how people come into your lives out of the blue when you really need them the most. There are few girls I know that are as spitfirey(sp) as me. My DI and GW runs will never be the same. Now this gal can garagesale like nobodies business. Oh an did I mention I wish I had her house/homedecor/brain of creativeness.

This miss america is amazing. She is such a talented woman and I love that she doesn't keep it to herself and shares it with me ALL the time. Sis is one of the most selfless people I know.

Seriously, I don't think I've ever met a stronger, more beautiful woman. The spiritual strength she has overwhelms me to tears. Of all the things that she has trialed with recently, what an example of a gracious woman. I love that she's my friend. I love that she loves what I love. I love her children and love that I feel like family around them. I love that she thinks I'm funny. I owe so much of my parenting and motherhood to her. I wish we were neighbors right now. I'm so glad I have this picture.

I MISS YOU!!!

2011-05-20T23:12:00.008-06:00

I miss this little posse'...words cannot explain
I miss this little couple.

I miss this AWESOME mother and friend.

I miss my ward and friends that shaped me into the mama that I am and hope to be...someday and loved me even with my.....weird ways/thoughts/anxieties/insecurities/scatterbraininess/spazzzomatiness(is that a word?)

I miss my first friend to meet in Boise and last friend to say goodbye to.

Uhmm...

I miss seeing this little group every day...ooh my heart is tugging.

I miss the endless giggles and screams OK..and sometimes whines together.

I miss this litte gem who's saved my butt more times than I can imagine or begin to reciprocate. She is a SAINT I tell you. I wish I could give her a 2wks vacation to any place of her choice...I would...and of course I would go with her....BUT I can't so I'll just take her a Pepsi every once in a while and hope she sees the true meaning behind it.

I'll just throw in some Easter into the mix while I'm at it!

I miss my girls at work. Super funny and got my sense of humor..that's kinda rare. I hope I find that again.

the end

Uhmmm..I have a crush

2011-05-08T23:42:00.003-06:00

On this lil guy! He's been quite the handful these days but I wouldn't trade him for a millisecond. I do miss him even when he's sleeping. He loves his momma!

AND his 2nd momma Rachel. He got hurt the other day and actually ran towards her to console him instead of me. It was so precious! She loves them almost as much as I do and he's gonna miss her SOOOO much!
The little Wills showing us his muscles! I love him in his little handsome suit!
What more could a gma ask for...a brand new babe to hold and love! She's pretty cute and a sweet addition to the fam.

for uncle zack!

2011-03-11T10:57:00.001-07:00

They are growing up right before my eyes!

Happy Valentines!!

2011-02-14T19:05:00.001-07:00

Family Photo Overload!

2011-02-12T22:27:00.006-07:00

Oh Baby Will!

Here he is at his finest...shoving his face...more like shoveling his face full of food!
CuteNESS!!

More Cuteness!

Attempting to take your own family photo?.....not recommended! I get the idea in my head and then.......chaos...no control....anxiety sets in............chaos..........one word......William!

This one describes the outing...little stinker that boy.

I'll definitely keep this one!

I can't decide which one I like....any suggestions?

Will saying "CHEESE"

Lovin' the bathtime!

Brookie's friend, Addie, had a Valentines aka Ballentine party with her friends! It was a hit! The girls loves every minute of it from coloring, decorating and eating cookies, and passing out Ballentines.

Reese had a blast herself. We got into the car and she settles in and says "THAT WAS FUN!"

Typical expression from the B-Willmister! He is getting into all sorts of mischief. At 15 months old he is 24 lbs, 8 teeth plus teething 4 lovely molars. He loves climbing on the table especially when I tell him no. That seems to make it even more fun. He loves screaming and panicking when he sees food that he MUST have at that very second. He is starting to get and use sign language such as all done, please, milk, hot, and drink. He likes to say cheese to the camera, talk on the phone, bang on the computer, dip Barbies in the toilet, tackles Brookie to the ground like a football player over and over again, loves to dance, loves kissing his mama, and his mom loves to put him to bed..the best, most quiet time of the day!

Two little gems!

The Past Winter

2011-01-30T16:37:00.007-07:00

Christmas was awesome at Grandma and Grandpa Harris's. We loved being there and Brooklyn and Will were spoiled by them.

Here she is so happy to have her Cinderella Barbie from Santa!

The harmonicas were a hit!

I made about 20 of these! They sold really fast and I still have orders coming in!

Two little peas in action!

This is right after Will's first needed haircut! The mullet was forming and it was very necessary!

This little girl has just been a gem to hang around! I love her logic and reasoning. She's quite easy going. She's fun to run errands with, dance with, read with, and clean up with! I really feel blessed that I have her! I swear you are given what you can handle and I've always worried what kind of mom I would be but she definitely makes in enjoyable and easy for me! I guess that's all I can handle.....and then....there's Will.I.AM

Brookie graduated from Nursery with Sister Martel this year and started Primary! Her new teachers are Mrs. Dillworth and Wilcox. She said her first prayer last week and according to 2-3 witness(haha..I'm just a nerd) she walked right up there grabbed the mic and said the prayer all by herself! I was so proud of her!

Will's naptime is our Brooklyn time where we paint, draw, craft, and learn 3yr old stuff. Here is her first paint by numbers she painted with her dad. I was a little worried she wouldn't be able to understand the numbers part..but judge for yourself..not too shabby!

Will weighs 24 lbs and we have not enjoyed our few sickie house and visits to the Dr. already. It hasn't been fun BUT I have to admit I have loved him snuggling with me while he plays with my hair or tousles his own. Now he's doing much better but the whiney/sick voice still remains. Imagine that. I think he just forgot to stop that when he felt better. Maybe it's a phase...let us hope!

Spazman!

Who-Hoo, Who-Hoo! In your FACE!

As you may already know..I have grandma tendencies..thus the crocheting..nerdville I know. I couldn't resist making this bad boy...DON'T BE JEALOUS!

PS: I know I've said it before but it's time to go Private! I'm so lazy! But it's for the best I guess! Leave your name and address and I'll add you in! PEACE OUT!

LOVE/HATE RELATIONSHIP

2010-12-15T17:47:00.002-07:00

Lately it has been so funny to watch these two play together. Will is definitely growing into his head and loves to razzle Brooklyn just to get a response from her. I love watching them fight over something. I don't know why it's amusing. I'm sure I won't enjoy it for long. I guess I'm just loving that they are brother and sister and to watch them interact is hilarious! Then, two seconds later, there is Brookie protecting him and being the sweet big sister. Love this pair!

Brooklyn's #3 Birthday!!!!

2010-12-10T13:54:00.006-07:00

Brooklyn turned Three on Dec. 8th! She had a wonderful day full of wonderful friends and surprises!
She was so excited for this lovely Belle Barbie so her Snow White would have a friend to play with! She won't even look at the camera because all she wants to do is stare and Belle.

She had a surprise visitor who brought her special balloons, tootsie rolls, and stickers! Thanks Uncle Jesse!

I'm not sure who is happier here.

Brooklyn had a wonderful time with friends at Bounce! We barely saw her and everytime we did she was laughing her head off with her friends!

Will had to show up for the party himself trying to take over all the attention.,....it kind of worked!

Words cannot express how hard I was laughing..look at all the kids staring at him!

Workin' it in his car!

I think the slides were her favorite part!

It might as well have been her birthday too!

BABY WILL

2010-11-23T21:53:00.002-07:00

The Big Baby Will turned 1 on Sunday! Of course we celebrated with the little guy!

Of course, you buy him presents and he plays with the box. He would've been just fine if I had just balloons for him...I couldn't resist!

Opening his present from G-ma Harris! Loves his dump truck!

Action shot!

The girls had a blast themselves!

Stuffin' himself!

Love him

A little confused about what all the fuss what about and why everyone was singing to him!

I have a problem!

2010-11-18T14:37:00.003-07:00

Sometimes when I find something that I really like I feel like I need to have 10 of them! For instance the Christmas Mint M&M's...I need 5 bags..not just one or a cute shirt..I need a "few" in other colors. But lately, I found this really cute hat pattern and then I need to make about 10 of them and then 1 for everyone of my friends little kids. They are so cute on my kiddos. I mean you need one to match every outfit right? I've already have 4 people buying one from me so it's been fun to make some for others too and decrease my debt of yarn collection..of course of every color...it's bad! I'm such a nerd but I can't resist.

photos of the b-trout!

2010-11-01T21:34:00.002-06:00

This little girly cracks me up! I've been having so much fun with her. I like to pretend to take photos and had to post these for the fam!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!

2010-10-21T23:51:00.000-06:00

Boo!

ALMOST!

2010-10-16T22:49:00.001-06:00

He's so excited to turn 1 he's already anticipating letting everyone know.

Walking Monster and Princess part-A!

2010-10-04T12:41:00.003-06:00

Here's a pic of the walking Monster. He makes loud noises and mouth breathes and hisses like a snake! Not to mention the walking...he's got the crazy monster walk goin' on.
Brooklyn's friend Addie had a Princess B-day Party and they all dressed up, had their makeup done and all sorts of princess "stuff". She had a blast!!

My little Princess Cinderella before the Princess Ball!!

photoshoot #962789

2010-09-29T17:27:00.005-06:00

Rach and I ventured to the park today. Of course I have to pretend I know how to take pictures. I guess practice makes perfect eh?

A few weeks ago! Sunday Seige!

2010-09-01T13:08:00.004-06:00

WILL.I.AM is 9mo old. weighs 22 lbs. He acts about 1 1/2 yrs old. He is so fun, he has thick fat paws which he loves to slap his mom with and pinch her neck and arms, the noises that comes out of his mouth are hilarious/chubacca/sloth/mouth breathing monster...typical boy. He's a crawling champion, looks more and more like his dad everyday, and gets into EVERYTHING.
Brookies first helicopter ride!

Sniper Ev sharp shoots to win Brooklyn her own stuffed animal. He hits all 6 in a row..like a champ!

She rode the pony with dad right by her side. She was quite hesitant but with a big peptalk she pulled through...pure joy!!....Ev and Brooklyn..you decide who is more excited!!

Sunday Siege! A One hour planned Sunday drive once again turns into a Four hour drive off the beaten path in no mans land with my white knuckles the whole. It was awesome and the kids were in HEAVEN!

Beautiful sunset above Boise by the cellphone towers

Paddleboats..feeding the ducks!

Hiking in the foothills!

24th of July Wedding

2010-07-24T23:36:00.004-06:00

Brookie was a flowergirl for our friend Camille and Rusty's wedding! She was so excited and took it very seriously!!

Here is Addie and Brooklyn dancing with all the couples. She kept watching them all dancing and hugging and then she turns and does the same to Addie! So adorable!! Here is Brooky planting one on the Adster!

These girls would not leave the dance floor!!

In her element!!

Boom! WILL.I.AM

Thank goodness she has these goggles on. She was under the water about .00001 percent of the time!!

which one is your fave!?

2010-07-19T01:07:00.003-06:00

Attempt at a family photo. It's a start!
Had a blast at the splashpark!

Love these photo..I tried my best at some pics today of Brookie and Will.i.am. I need opinions of your fave please!
BROOKLYN: Very fun, loves "snacks" and good at negotiating, loves baby Will, loves stories at nighttime, very unique personality with some serious opinions.

WILL.I.AM: Almost 8mo and crawling like a champ, never without a smile and super HAPPY!! Says da-da and ba-ba and lots of raspberries.

4th of July, 2010

2010-07-15T00:03:00.004-06:00

Picture OVERLOAD!!
Easter Idaho summer nights!! This is why I sometimes want to move back!

B and Uncle Yella! He is going to be the best dad!! Brookie ADORES him!!

Hiking up to Paris Spring!

Most of the Hoge's at Paris Spring

Ev/Will

Brookie at her best...POUNDING sugar!!

Griffin and Brooklyn together again....tickle fest and pure joy....so fun to watch!!

Julia and I taking our annual family photo......at least that's what it looks like. until next year Hulietta!!!

Niki came over to swim at my dads with her kids. Love this girl! ..We reminisced(sp)..I'm so glad I got to see her.

Brooklyn and Dad camping!

Checkin for snipes

The crawling begins!!

2010-06-25T13:55:00.004-06:00

Will decided to get after it and start crawling sooner than later(7mo)! He's thinkin' he's pretty cool stuff.

If I watch the red ball really close......

Who's excited to be at the fair..raise your hand!!?

Two little gems!!

Two other little gems!!

Memorial Day Weekend!!!

2010-06-14T20:59:00.005-06:00

First thing: I love him
Ev played in a Memorial Day softball tournament over Memorial Day weekend with some high school alumni buddies. They won the tournament!

Evan likes bears. He shot this a few weeks ago. He's pretty happy about the whole thing. There is bear meat in my freezer. You want some? Don't be jealous!

B is loving the funny faces these days

We stopped in Twin Falls to bbq with my lovely lady friends and their beautiful beautiful children. It was heaven. I wish I saw them more often!

They are the definition of humor. I laugh so hard when I'm see them. I feel funny around them. That is good.

Bonnie and Brookie. Bear Lake isn't the same with out Ev's sisters in it!

Brookie and Jillian. Pure sweetness!!

Here we are roasting hotdogs and too many smores around the campfire!

Bear Lake was HEAVEN this night. We were the ONLY ones on the beach on the perfect night. Brooklyn was quite obsessed with her cousin Josh and wanted to do anything he did.

Fishin' @ the Lake!!

What I get to see everyday!!

2010-05-20T16:53:00.004-06:00

Some very serious concentration for my 6month old
Love this beauty

I had to document a close up of his first tooth at 5 1/2 months. He likes to show it off with his HUGE smile!

Sometimes he is HAPPY

Sometimes he is SAD

The view from a 6month old....random I know!

Somtimes he just chills out!

Oh ya, can your child do THIS??!!!

Will's first attempt at rice cereal....took it like a champ and wanting more!

Why do I post this pic you ask? We came home from church and B-trout needed to go potty. Little did I know she decided she needed to wear 7 pairs of princess panties to church. The next day a friend from church told me about it. I guess the nursery found out when she needed to go potty at church....I have no idea how she got them on without me knowing. LOVE IT!!

5months

2010-04-24T15:26:00.002-06:00

I can't believe my Will is 5 months old. I HAD to get photos of him because I'm afraid he's growing up faster than I realize! He's a little gem I tell you. Almost ready to sit up..not quite. He's starting to figure out that when I lay him down and he cries I'll pick him up. Oh he loves me. Nothin is better I tell ya.

My friend Jayna tagged team with me to get photos of her and I's kids. It seems like I have no pics of him and I. I always wished I had a pic of me and mom together when I was young. He better appreciate it.

Once again B-trout comes out smellin' like a rose! Oh boy, my hands are getting fuller and fuller with her.

Preschool n Things!!

2010-04-22T00:04:00.002-06:00

This little boy loves his mama!! Without a doubt..don't even have to ask..

I was down in my moms basement for 15 minutes while Brooklyn wanted to watch a Dora movie...Someone found the lotion...wiped it ALL over my moms leather couch, all over her pants, hair, body...AWESOME!!!

B-Bop CANNOT stop talking about Preschool. While I was up visiting my mom, my sister-in-law, Tammie, invited her to her preschool for the morning! She loved every minute with Tammie and talks about her and preschool all the time! She threw a fit the other day because she thought that was where we were driving and when we ended up back at our house..she was not happy! She wants to drive there (5 hours) "and see Tammie" This is her the morning of her first day at Preschool!

B-trout "feeding" her baby! I wonder where she got this from! I love her piggy toes!!

Abbys Photo Shoppe

2010-04-15T22:59:00.002-06:00

While Abby was here she took in upon herself to share with Brooklyn all her makeup secrets and then provide some modeling shots to prove it.
Here she is with her beautiful freckles and natural beauty mark. Cindy Crawford baby!
The Lipstick is the most important part of your makeup and you must make sure it's applied to an exactness.

And here she is in total awe of her Aunt who has just shown her the most amazing thing in the world...beauty products.

uhmmm...not sure here but somewhere she must act her age.

Spring happenings and relationships!!

2010-04-15T22:15:00.003-06:00

Went to the ZOO last week Ashlee and the kids. Someone had a ball and his name is Will! This guys is so stinkin content and smiley and lovely and easy and fun and stinkin' cute.
He already seems to have a girlfriend. Kaleaya was in total heaven doting on Mr. Chill. This girl is so happy all the time and poses like a champ when the camera is around. This is a perfect blackmail pic for later! heehee

Brooklyn and Reese had to have a picture on Easter together.

Here is my little B-trout in her Easter dress and a mess of a hairdo with her favorite pose...finger in mouth, hand down shirt. It's quite the habit she's picked up and she thinks it's hilarious. Oh Brookie, One of my favorite things about her is that she is so mature beyond her years. This little girl cares for her little bro like a champ, says please and thankyou like it's nobodys business and has the cutest sarcasm sass. She talks about serious things, calls me her precious mom and asks me crazy questions about life already, and loves men..always calling them on the "phone"..namely Chris Hessing, Jess, Uncle Bean, Ryan(our elders quorum pres...random), Jerrick(our neighbor), Grandpa Harris, and Zack.! At church the other day she was standing up looking around and I asked her what she was looking at and she says, "oh, just lookin' at all the boys." How did I get so lucky to have this little stinker.

This is Aiden, her new friend who came to play the other day. It's a love/hate relationship. They played great and Brooklyn loves meeting new friends...thus the yellow personality I already see in her. Like mother like daughter I guess.

Happy Happy Joy Joy

2010-03-31T23:05:00.003-06:00

This Pretty much sums up this post! I could not be any happier with this boy! Here he is at four months old now and I get adrenaline rushes every time I kiss his face off! I seriously lucked out on this one! He's rollin' over like a champ and loves to talk to his mom about some very serious things.
B-trout loves baths in the sink and sat here for an hour the other day just washing her little hand over and over and over and over and over!!!

Pure Joy!!!....on both ends of the spectrum! Jesse came to visit on his way home from the Olympics in a big bus and both of them couldn't wait to see each other! Brookie loved the bus which pulled right up to our house to see her particularly! Thanks J-dog!

Tickle Monster in action!

Sometimes she loves it and sometimes she doesn't. Hopefully one day she'll master this process!

MY BEAUTIFUL MESS!

2010-03-20T13:51:00.002-06:00

I went into get Brookie the other morning in her room right before I was leaving to my moms and she was mumbling something about silly putty. As my eyes adjusted to the light...this is what I found! I was not about to sit home for 2 hrs and get this out without help so i left it and drove 4 1/2 hrs home so my sis could help me. Bless her heart! What a beautiful mess isn't she!

the funny thing is..I didn't even get mad!! How could I!! Only brooklyn i tell ya!! Apparently, Evan put her to bed and she wanted to see it because it glowed in the dark and Ev forgot about somethings after that!! So funny!!
I found this rummaging through some old letters from highschool.

2010-03-19T00:36:00.001-06:00

Will 2 months

2010-01-26T00:44:00.003-07:00

My friend Sicily and I attempted a photoshoot with our little darlings today..it's quite the ordeal trying to take photos on your own. I'm so glad we sacrificed our whole day because these pics turned out quite all right for me.

wooooh! hoo! woooohooo! you know who you are! and ps: thanks for the tips today!

Oh this is one of my fave's. Just contemplating life!

Drool just starting to form..i wish it would have been more of a drip!

Christmas Extravaganza

2010-01-20T00:39:00.004-07:00

It's not really a Christmas Extravaganza but I just like to say it!

Here is our new family of 4. Can you believe I have two kids? I know weird, but strangely I love it! I swear, I was blessed with two sweet kiddos to balance out the craziness in me. Does that make sense? .....exactly!

We had a great Christmas with Ev's fam in Utah. It was way to short. We blessed Will along with my niece, Jillian. It was fun to share that with Sara!

Love this! Brookie got some sweet "extensions" for Christmas. She LOVED hanging out with her cousins.

The kiddos ready for Santa on Christmas Eve!

PS: I'm totally going private! I know I know annoying but all the peer pressure is telling me to aka: tara...jk! So send me your email and I'll hook you up to the coolest blog EVER.

Merry Christmas!!

2009-12-21T16:59:00.002-07:00

From Two Little Angels!!

My little man

2009-12-03T13:45:00.002-07:00

We attempted a little photoshoot with my BFF. Thanks to my mom and Rachel . We had a blast and he was the perfect little client and slept through it all.

And Now Presenting Mr. Prince William Evan Hoge

2009-11-28T23:17:00.007-07:00

Introducing our new little addition to the fam..William Evan Hoge. He is THE best! We are so in love with him. Brooklyn is adapting surprisingly well and we love her even more today!...besides the fact that she's been a little sick so we've been trying our best to keep them separated but it's not working so well. We are all doing good besides the fact it was a crazy labor and delivery almost not making it to the hospital in time and with pretty much no epidural since he came about 10 min. after I had it and I was stoned on Ambien..NOTE: always opt for the epidural...ALWAYS and don't take Ambien and try to walk around Walmart for a few hours...picture this....9 mo preg., stoned on Ambien..stumbling around walmart...having hard core contraction....very funny to watch, I can imagine. ...it makes for a good story too which I'm all about. ANYWAY, William is doing great. He is way healthy and sleeps like a champ...for now! Thanks for all the calls and well wishes and special surprises in the mail!!:) I am still counting all the wonderful blessings and tender mercies that have flowed into our house these last few weeks! We are so blessed and have so much to be thankful for this year. PS: pictures are very much out of order...ENJOY!!...and try to make sense of them all!
My little crew!!

Leaving the hospital!!

My little lifesaver and Brookies #1 nurse!! Waiting on her hand and foot while she had a fever while I was in the hospital. It couldn't have been better for me!

ABZ surprised me by showing up at the hospital with a plethora of gifts..including this little bundle Lucy..Brookie calls her Sucy.

My little bundle!! THE END

Wild Thing

2009-11-04T23:25:00.002-07:00

I ventured on over to the big OC to see Hulietta before I have my little babe and won't be able to travel much. Julia had a great B-day party for her son Griffin with the "Where the Wild Things Are." Brooklyn was a perfect fit being the little monster that she is. We had a great time!!

Here we are at the pumpkin patch posin'

This is my fave!! Deep in thought chowin' down on a cake pop Julia made.

Griffin and Brooklyn had a fun time playing together. Brooklyn loved him. She will be a great older sister!!

pumpkin' carvin'

2009-10-18T23:18:00.002-06:00

We attempted to carve pumpkins tonight and it actually worked. Who likes Evan's wolverine chops, raise your hand?

Brooklyn loved getting all the "goopies" out.

This little girl

2009-10-18T22:54:00.006-06:00

This little girl is almost 2 yrs old. She does not hold still so this is about as good of a pose as I could get.

Dear Evan

2009-10-08T00:38:00.002-06:00

Dear Evan,

While you are away hunting and gathering...Brooklyn has a few things she needs to tell you.

#1: I cried today...can you see my tear? Oh yes and mom does my hair weird when you aren't around...why is that?
#2: This is why I cried...I hurt my toe....see it! Mom kissed it better and put a Bandaned on it. I took it off and then made mom put another one on it and requested a "few" pieces of candy for "medicine."

#3: Mom is bugging me.

#4: My toe hurts and mom won't let me go play with Addie until I take this dumb picture...please come home soon. I miss you! Love, Brookie

playing around with photoshop

2009-09-26T23:17:00.001-06:00

While Evan is out hunting and gathering I'm at home playing around with photoshop. Just tried a little vintage effect. I don't really know what I'm doing but...I try.

Eastern Idaho weekend

2009-09-24T21:49:00.003-06:00

We had a great time in Eastern Idaho last weekend for Zack's wedding. It was fun to hang out with my fam and cousins. Brooklyn loved her g-ma and g-pa. She loves talking about everyone around her...zack, tammie, jesse, kato, macky-boy, kiss...on and on. We went out to my great aunt and uncles to see the llamas and peacocks and Brooklyn LOVED it. Here is a pic of one eating right out of our hands.

This girl cannot hold still for a picture.

2009-08-26T23:56:00.003-06:00

We had a great time at our family reunion. Especially the horse buggy/cart that I couldn't get this little girl off of. SHE LOVED IT and now loves horsey's. Lil Reese and Brooklyn were front and center the whole time.

Brookie and Daddy enjoying the Paris Parade.

Her hair is getting longer. I think this is the last of these hairdos because they won't stay up anymore.

Thanks Clarke

2009-08-26T23:32:00.002-06:00

My friend Clarke hooked us up with some divine skull candy awhile back. Brooklyn loves "her" headphones!

missing

2009-08-14T12:56:00.001-06:00

Our family friend is missing from St. Anthony. Please be on the lookout for him. We are so sad and he doesn't have family to look for him. His name is Albert Nelson.

http://www.kpvi.com/Global/story.asp?S=10892343

summer fun!

2009-08-06T18:53:00.003-06:00

these pics are backwards in order so enjoy...

this is us at roaring springs

this is pure joy!

this is sass

this is us on our way to roaring springs...notice brooklyns face cuz she couldn't hold the camera.

ready for an afternoon at the park!

brooklyn and the stakeout!!

2009-06-07T23:45:00.004-06:00

I got a little carried away with posting pictures...just don't worry about it. You know the person that shows 20 pics of the same thing?.......well..that's me...

This one is my top fave!

So amidst the litte "walk" in the park, lo and behold i see a few coppers quitely surrounding by. I tell Ev about the coppers around us....cuz you know i love the spy/stealth mission. We were the only people in the area and then all of the sudden....boom....coppers bust out their guns from all directions, yelling serious obscenities and take down these 2 guys up in the bushes....there were about 15 of them...of course we were lovin' it and don't hesitate to gawk and take pictures...you can see the guy up in the tree! Bad boys bad boys whatcha gonna do...what a way to spend my lovely sabbath day....fightin' crime. Thank goodness Brookyn was there, I have to start her out early with these things. I love how i think I was actually part of the whole "bust" It's as close as i can get so i don't mind daydreaming.

sassafrass

2009-06-07T22:27:00.004-06:00

this girl has pure sass!

B, showing off her muscles

finally she decides to smile for the camera...cutie...not me...her

angio

2009-05-17T23:59:00.003-06:00

Brooklyn and I went and hung out with my friend, Angie, and her boys last week. We had so much fun. She has the cutest little boys and Brooklyn mauled them both and stole their toys and ate their food and played with their rocking horses. It's always treat to hang out with Angie. I wish we lived closer. Angi with her her boys Xavier and Cole

Brooklyn being silly with mwa

Brooklyn, on cue, with her stunts

Bless her heart

Brooklyn and her boyfriend frolicking.

random

2009-05-10T21:54:00.000-06:00

You figure it out!

i love this picture

2009-04-12T22:44:00.001-06:00

hoppy easterSSS

2009-04-12T22:27:00.002-06:00

I always add these pics backwards but here are a few from this Easter. We went to a large horse ranch with Rachy and fam which held a big easter egg hunt in the arena. Brooklyn was lovin' it.
Here she is on old "lil bit." She will truly never be the same.

Here she is practicing the day before and Rachy's. She had no idea that she was practicing for the next day's big pony ride.

she has been so sweet to Reese....well, most of the time...she kissed her about 19 times today at dinner but she's getting that little "motherly" instinct already. She has to take care of her peeps.

I will post more pics soon. this is all the post would add. here is the little one with her momma after church. she loved her easter dress and hair barrettes the easter bunny gave her.

a few little things

2009-04-09T09:16:00.002-06:00

We went to Provo for the weekend to see the fam and some friends made a few appearances to see me...namely one.....TARA. We found this exciting vintage store and couldn't resist to play dress up. I could have stayed there for hours. We found some beautiful outfits that we almost took home....but didn't.

Here we are playing a little musical chairs with all the kiddos. They were lovin' it.

Could you not find a cuter pregnant girl? Renee chauffered me around to make some baby decisions with her. She is going to be the cutest mama! Thanks for the shopping spree and helping with all my stressful shopping purchases.

Someone took a visit to see the Easter Bunny while we were there. She didn't do too bad!

BFF's

2009-03-04T22:56:00.004-07:00

This is Brooklyn's BFF, Addie, at least for Brooklyn. Her mom watches Brooklyn on Tuesdays and when Brooklyn comes home that night she thinks she is THE COOLEST! She gets all cocky and walks around the house like she is so cool cuz she gets to play at Addie's all day. It's so funny. One of her favorite words is Addie and she says it ALL the time. They happen to have matching outfits and it just so coincidently happened that they wore them on the same day I got to watch them together. It has been the biggest blessing to have Brooklyn be with someone I trust and know that she takes care of her like her own. They definitely have a love/hate relationship

This is what I have to work with anytime I attempt to get on the computer with Brooklyn awake. As you can see with my mess here, not much production is going on. She LOVES talking to grandma on the webcam.

Random Pic..We found this pic in Ev's pictures of 2 little stinkers...I mean 3.

sunday drive-seige

2009-02-16T13:02:00.004-07:00

We went for a Sunday drive yesterday..which consists of Evan bringing his gun "just in case" we see something. Ev carries on the Hoge tradition of Sunday Drives turning into seiges with taking us out to the middle of nowhere. Secretly I like it just as long as everyone is safe. We accidently shut Macks tail in the door. It was really sad but he's fine now...once again...seige. I brought my camera and Evan and Brooklyn let me play with it a bit. It was really fun. I love this bridge. Brooklyn is such a big girl now....she needs to walk everywhere and tells me where we're going quite often.

We built this teepee real quick to get warm. That Evan, he can build anything.

I love this picture.

Thanks mom for the remote control for my camera..I'm finally using it now that I have my tripod piece back. I'm so excited to use it more often. Look at that little Macky-boy posin' like a Champ. He's such a trooper!

WOW we've been busy!

2009-02-12T14:18:00.004-07:00

It's been fun this last month to have Zacky-WacKy and Ev's fam come over. We had a great week with all of them. Also, the World Special Olympics are in town and Brooklyn and I have taken advantage. I'm such a socialite so it was a little out of my comfort zone to go alone but that didn't stop me. Brooklyn and I Part-Ade it up watching the Olympics and star-spotting of course...Michelle Kwan, Scott Hamilton and I now officially very close. They both love me...they told me.

Here we are front row at the figure skating...I work my magic...as usual to get the seats I want...it's all about The Secret.

Sometimes...well most of the time Brooklyn likes to be JUST like her mom so she HAD to try on my shades.

Here we are in front of Quest Arena sittin' on the Special Olympics ice sculpture

Someones chipper....

Uncle Bean with my little B...what a little pair...she thrashes him just as much and he does to her.

Here's a little family pic...they don't tend to happen that often cuz I'm always lookin' thrashed...thanks Bean for taking it.

Bonnie and Yella with little B. Bonnie has the cutest voice when she talks to Brooklyn. I giggle every time they chat. Yella and B are quite the little pair. He took care of Brooklyn when she was up early when they were here....These two will make the BEST parents I already know.

Grandpa Hoge blowin' out his birthday candles getting a little help from Brooklyn.

typical day at my house.

TRUE LOVE that's what this is!

2009-01-25T21:06:00.004-07:00

2 stories, first off, yesterday my sista, rach, calls me and tells me there is is great deal at albertsons on 7up...see pic below

you buy 5 and only have to pay tax. i'm so excited but brooklyn was napping, then my friend came over, then ev was coming home soon so quickly my day was running away and i forgot about it and spaced it. so ev gets home and i take 30 min to myself and run to alberstons....right when i get there they had given away their last 7ups. i was so sad:( and frustrated with myself. if only i had been 2 minutes earlier. you know, i love a good deal. i was so mad at myself...i don't know why but this was a big deal to me at the time and it was all my fault cuz i could have come sooner and stocked up. the night manager saw me in distress and called the other albertsons...they all were sold out. so i pouted and moped(sp) outside and decided to hit DI to bounce back from my acute depression. while driving i get this sudden urge to call another albertsons in the direction i was driving...i do and guess what....they had a few left but i better hurry cuz they can't hold em. i hauled over there, run in, and with a huge smile on my face i tell the managers patrolling the few pallets of 7up left how they had made my entire night. I proceed to get my cart and the manager asks me how many i want...i tell him 5 cuz that was the max you were allowed to get, then he asks me again...how many do i want...i looked at him puzzled....10?.....he fills my cart and asks again...how many do you want...i say 15? so the manager gives my 15 two liter bottles of 7up....bottomline,.....i paid 90 cents for 15 of those bad boys. i was on cloud nine. i got in my car on the biggest adrenaline rush, took a few breaths then thought to myself...what the heck am i going to do with all of this? i wanted the "deal" so bad. i'm such a sucker for good deals. why was i so excited over sugar infested 7up to rot my teeth and make me fat..well, i've come to the conclusion that i don't know why, i don't really care, it was free, and it was fun...the end.

next story, so i hear about this deal at macy's that they are giving away free beauty products and all you have to do is sign your name and pick from the choices. i get to the front of line, sign my name and went to pick my beauty product. i had two choices...see below.,....

how am i supposed to decide, i'm 31, i'm wrinkling away, i need this estee lauder night repair like no other, i need the moisture surge cuz my face is drying up...how am i suppose to make this decision? i seriously get anxious when it comes to decisions like this. so i pick one and get this great idea...go out the car where ev was impatiently waiting.. try to make a sad face and ask ev if he would go in and get the other one for me. bless his little heart, ev goes into macy's in the womens makeup counter with all these ladies probably sweatin' up a storm feeling very uncomfortable and asks the lady for the product. SUCCESS, he gets the goods...mission accomplished! poor evan, sacrificing his pride of all things for this, bear of all bears, evan gets in touch up with his feminine side for his wife to be happy. isn't that just so sweet!? i had a smile on my face the rest of the night just imagining evan at the makeup counter trying to act cool but i know he felt very very uncomfortable. this may sound small but it was a very big step for evan to step outside his man-ly comfort zone for me. that's true love, that's what this is edward.(name that movie) side note: he did make a deal with me that if he got the goods he could go coyote hunting the next day...all day. there's always some catch but....as i like to say(jk i don't really like to say but it sounded good right now) "one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind." the end

Faces only a mother could love

2009-01-19T14:12:00.004-07:00

I have not posted much lately...I've been in some funk and trying to get out! But this little girl and helped me along the way. I seriously giggle all day. She is so silly and has her own little language. I've been wanting to take her out and play/practice photography but it's so stinkin' cold. I'm sure these are just excuses. But these are a few of my favorites. My goal this year is to try to take 4 unique/risky/outofthebox photos to try to teach myself photography. Any tips?

I LOVE THIS FACE

This Reese is such a beauty! She's was a little gem over Christmas. I love this photo.

YULE TIDE!!!

2008-12-22T20:06:00.002-07:00

We hope you all have a very merry Christmas !!! Brooklyn and I shoveled the driveway the other night. She loved every minute of it!!!
Last but not least, we took a little trip to see Santa today!!! This pic is priceless...so classic! Looks like someone might get a lump of coal in her stocking this year if she's not careful. Santa was so cute...actually he was....very good looking...too bad I didn't take a turn:( I couldn't quit staring at him...he was such a handsome Santa....OK i'll stop now! Merry Christmas to you all!

Continued Brooklyn post

2008-12-08T23:06:00.002-07:00

My mom made this cake for me~ Bless her heart..she tries..she really does!

Sometimes I pretend I'm a model...any pose I do, such as this, well..you get the picture

I'm reading at a 2nd grade level already and I"m only 1. Imagine that...my mom says I'm a child prodigy...hey, I'm just being me..is that so wrong!?

When I get tired I throw myself on Macks bed and stare off into space and dream about.....milk......mom......toys........mack........mom.....daddy.....milk....mmmmmmm

Don't mess with me or my mom or you'll get the wrath. I'm serious people. Don't underestimate. I know people!

Things I like to do ....by Brooklyn

2008-12-08T22:50:00.002-07:00

Since I'm ONE years old today my mom thought it would be special to talk about myself and things that I do all day. This first picture is my favorite past time. I pretty much crawl up and down the stairs all day. I'm getting really fast. I'm tall enough to reach the door knob..if I could only just figure out how to get out. I really like exploring so I can't wait to go outside.

I've really been into crashing my baby stroller down the stairs.

and into my doggie Mack! He doesn't seem too happy in this picture. I know he loves me he just doesn't know it yet. I take alot of attention away from him but we're working on things and I think we'll be BFF's in no time.

I push things around in my stroller too.

like this bell here. I shake it real hard and then place them all in my stroller and give them a ride.

OH HAPPY DAY!

2008-12-05T10:52:00.002-07:00

I'm not much of a blogger these days. Nothing real funny to blog about....that's what I mostly like to talk about is funny/awkward stuff but I'll try to muster somethin' up soon. We went and saw the lights on temple square with some friends over Thanksgiving. Brooklyn was lovin' it. Everything is "doggie" to her...reindeer, cats, snowmen...whatever. She does make everything a little more exciting.

Halloween pics

2008-11-12T19:56:00.003-07:00

We had a great Halloween being able to be with this little bear Reese and Rachel. We drove to Utah to my aunts funeral and spent some quality time with two babies on a six hour drive. It definitely wore Rachel and I out but still, these two little stinkers are quite the pair. I love their faces in this picture. Brooklyn was all over the place. All the pictures are blurry of her because she couldn't hold still. Look at that classic expression on Reese's face.

We have the best neighbors anyone could ever ask for who gave Brooklyn an early birthday present. This beautiful hat has a lion face on the top of it. They also gave her the CUTEST pair of shoes.

THE HUNTER/GATHERER

2008-11-07T00:05:00.004-07:00

Well, Ev and Bean found this lovely beauty last weekend up in them thar mountains. Look at the smile on his face. Priceless!! I'm kinda sad about the whole thing but proud in a weird way that if we ever went hungry I know I would be able to count on Ev to pull through and find food for our little family. He's like a little boy talking about it, measuring it, staring at it, talking, staring, thinking...it doesn't stop. Don't get me wrong that thing is HUGE! The other day Evan was talking about how the coyote hunt is still going on and that maybe he needed to go hunt them down. I finished him off by saying, "Ya know Ev, I think it's time for the Emily hunt now." I crack myself up.

?

2008-10-25T23:22:00.002-06:00

While Evan is out hunting and gathering for his family I was bored and shoved Brooklyn in front of the camera....AGAIN! Every time I try to take a picture, this is the look. All serious and NO SMILES! It's like she knows what I'm doing and she is doing EVERYTHING she can to NOT help me out. I'll get over it.

This little fence is across the street with little Yorkies on the other side and EVERY time we pull into our house Brooklyn gets super excited and we have to go over and see the dogs. The fence is just her size so I had to take a little picture.

MY LITTLE ROSARITA!!

2008-10-20T21:53:00.002-06:00

I feel like I don't have very many pics of Brooklyn and I. My mom took these and sent them to me...thanks mom. My friend Angie saw her in this little outfit and couldn't help but call her a little spanish Rosarita and since then it's stuck. She is all but ready to take her first step. We're excited but dreading it at the same time.

Guess What We Saw Today?

2008-10-12T21:08:00.004-06:00

Brooklyn, Mack, and I went down to Julia Davis Park for a little walk and fresh air. Lo and behold, look who sticks his head over the fence for a little HELLO? He became good friends with Mack......just kidding they were NOT friends. Brooklyn loved Mr. Giraffe. He came to the zoo last Saturday but we got our own little private showing today.

This is what happens everyday I have to go downstairs or outside. Brooklyn panics and runs to the stairs and practically climbs it while yelling at me to come back. Mack panics as well and they wait and wait and wait until I come back to rescue them.
Jesse has been staying with me while Evan is gone hunting to protect us from all the monsters. He and Brooklyn have gotten pretty tight these days.
Evan took this picture of Brooklyn during dinner the other night. I've been trying to use sign language with her like....food, more, milk, finished/done....well, this is her sign language for finished. She puckers her lips, sucks in her nose and breaths in and out really hard and fast every time she's finished with her food. I'll go with it. Can't you just see the attitude/sassyfrass?

That's Officer Harris to You!

2008-10-12T19:41:00.003-06:00

Last July, Zacky Wacky graduated from Post Training here in Boise and my family attended his graduation.
It was pretty fun to be there and see the hard work and training they put you through
It's very similar to the training that Reno 911 has to go through.

Congrats Zacky Wacky. We are so proud and I'm glad it was here in Boise to be able to be a part of it.
Of course, you have to give this pose, Zack. So deep, so very deep in thought....that POST training really did something to ya!

5 Random Acts of Emily

2008-10-07T22:51:00.002-06:00

I'm not really a "TAG" person but my friend Julie wanted me to share a few random things about myself that most people don't necessarily know...nor they might not care to know...nevertheless...I'm posting it anyway. So here are 5 things you may wonder why you are still friends with me after this.

#1 I really enjoy wearing weird things around my house. I don't know why but I love wearing random outfits that don't match, maybe a ragged old shirt that I've had since highschool and a skirt, maybe I'll shove my hair up in 50 different clips on my head and then put a hairband over that with some tight leggings that shouldn't be worn in public with an oversized hoodie that should in no way complement the leggings and high heel shoes. I think it's funny and fun. So pretty much don't show up at my house expecting me to be dressed appropriately...maybe for a circus.

#2 I think I have a bit of anxiety when it comes to grocery shopping. I'll go to get a loaf of bread and end up standing there for 15 min. stressing out about which one to buy. The whole wheat, the blackbread, the yummy grandma's bread, the expensive kind, the cheapest kind? Then I come home with one and end up realizing I bought the completely wrong one.

#3 I let Brooklyn pinch me! Some babies fall asleep holding a blanket or drinking a bottle or listening to music...well, Brooklyn likes to grasp on with her two little "pincher" fingers and "pinch" herself to sleep. It's a good 10 minutes or so of pinching taking place. I need to take a picture. I will and post it soon. It somehow soothes her so I bare through the pain and sacrifice my body like any sane Mother would..whatever I need to do as long as Brooklyn sleeps peacefully...right? My sister has nicknamed her PINCH...it's so cute.

#4 I like turtlenecks!! Why you ask? I don't know, I just do. I'll wear them any chance I can get. It covers my body...maybe...it reminds me of fall..maybe...I don't know why, I just do.

#5 I, for some reason, always have to have a clutter somewhere. I'll clean my house up an down but stangely, I can't have something completly clean. You know how Native Americans will weave a rug but can't have it complete a full circle or square or design. It has to have an outlet of some sort? Well, that's my reasoning behind my clutter. It can't be perfect. And I don't purposely do it..that's the thing...I try and try to "complete the circle" but somehow I just can't do it. It like a superstition. Evan's nickname or term of enderment for me is PigPen on Charlie Brown.

That was kind of hard to do but I can't let all my secrets out. There are just of few for you. ENJOY!

Bikram Yoga

2008-10-07T22:26:00.002-06:00

Here it is...This is what I have been doing the past 20 days! For my birthday, I bought a pass to this Bikram Yoga..AKA Hot Yoga parlor...or gym..whatever you call it! I paid $20 for 20 days and I could go as many times as I wanted. The class is 90min in a 105 degrees and 40% humidity designed to warm the muscles and allow them to stretch and tone. It is a system of wellness, restoration and rejuvenation. The heated studio facilitates deeper stretching, prevents injury, relieves stress and tension and detoxifies the body. It is designed to systematically stimulate and restore health to every muscle, joint and organ of the body. Participants are guided through a series of 26 postures. The heart, lungs, blood circulation, muscles, brain activity and mental capacity are all affected by particpating in the art of yoga.You perform 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises . WOW, It has been such an experience.

I'm not one of those people that get "hooked" on things or "swear" they are a miracle cure but I definitely have felt a difference in my back, neck, and mind. I have slept better,....I still eat a load of candy frequently, but I do feel more calm and focused AND I feel like it has changed my body somewhat...for the better. I never really workout my back or abs but this is pretty much all it works out. I leave completely drenched but so revived and definitely sore the next day. Mainly, I have just loved the experience to try something new and push myself a little harder than I normally do. The poses are a little strange and the dialogue is a little dramatic but I just took it for what it's worth and tried to do my best. So what I'm saying is LONG LIVE BIKRAM YOGA.....JK. Maybe you should try it out sometime! I wish I could go more but it's about $100 a month after the initial $20 for 20 days deal. My last day is Thursday so I'm sad but definitely happy for the experience. .........Namaste!.........I had too say that...just to be funny......I'm not that die hard.

My favorites

2008-09-13T15:38:00.002-06:00

Evan and I took some fun pictures of Brooklyn yesterday! I am learning to shoot in Manual mode thanks to Meegan. It has been so much fun and I'm starting to sort of "get it." It was so fun! I love these two pictures the very most. I love her little piggy toes and her expressions.

She is concentrating so hard in these. I'm for sure framing these!

Sittin on ice!

2008-09-13T00:02:00.002-06:00

I have been looking through old pictures lately and there are some pictures that for some reason I just keep going back to them particularly this one. This is Evan's dad ice fishing in Bear Lake. I love the mountains in the background, I love how isolated it looks. He looks so...simple is the word that comes to my mind. I love the foldout chair just chillin on the lake. I had just bought my new camera so I went out for the day with Evan, Ephraim and his dad to "try" to take pictures. I know I know, it's not the best color but I'm sure a little photoshop would spice this up.

Here's the end result of fishing that day! Someone is happy!

Random Photos

2008-09-10T11:57:00.002-06:00

Here are random photos that made my day today!! I know I haven't posted pics for awhile but these photos made my day.

Thanks Tara for talking to me last night. I really appreciate it!
This is our last family picture that I have. I had fun that day!
Look at those chubby legs!!!!
This reminds me of Ev's family. I know...weird but I had fun that day with my nephew Sam taking random pics.

Oh there are more to come of this little stinker. A face only a mother could love...or grandmother

Brooklyn Eight Months OLD

2008-08-18T15:05:00.001-06:00

Here's a pic of Brooklyn at 8 months old. I love that little face. She is getting sillier and sillier. I'll post more soon.

IN MEMORY

2008-08-11T14:16:00.005-06:00

Our dear friend Amber lost her life on Sunday. We are truly sad and heartbroken. She left behind her husband and two beautiful children. A memorial has been opened at Wells Fargo Bank under Amber Jacobson Memorial Fund Acct. # 8888362459 for those who would like to donate.

SLEEPING WITH THE ENEMY

2008-08-06T17:58:00.002-06:00

Someone has put me to the test this last month. This little girl was an angel and slept through the night at 1 1/2 months. Life was good. I get more sleep after I had her than before. Things were going great....and THEN...3:00a.m....then 6:00a.m. Guess who wakes up twice in the night this last month. HELP! We have been really busy this month with vacations and family in town so our schedule has been a little jacked. This week I was determined to get this little girl back on track with Baby Boot Camp, as my sis-in-law Sarah likes to put it. Well, I tried, the screaming went and went and went and went. I put her in her bed today for two different naps and she cried and cried..not to mention she is teething. When I went back to check on her after there was silence for a few minutes..this is what I found.

Here she is on the side of her crib where she YELLS out the door for someone to come and rescue her.
Here's another one where she fell asleep. Keep in mind, this was in the same day...TODAY!
Oh yes, and here she is acting like nothing is wrong, smellin' like a rose! Like the world revolves around her or something..well...it does! I'm saying that this is all a phase and going with that. I could use some help. Should I just rock her to sleep in the middle of night, feed her, let her bawl her brains out, or start cohabitating in the same bed?..jk on the last one.

ANOTHER BUSY DAY!!

2008-08-01T11:17:00.002-06:00

Yes, it's true. I am so busy with this little girl of mine. Look at the stress in my life!
We went on this nice hike the other day to Jump Creek Falls.
People actually cliffjump this! It was really fun to find this place. It's out in the middle of who knows where but we loved it. It makes us want to move to "out in the middle of nowhere."

I WISH YOU WERE A FLY ON THE WALL TODAY

2008-07-16T22:42:00.003-06:00

I have had the biggest silliest grin on my face today. I cannot stop giggling. If you had any idea what happened to me today. I cannot stop laughing. I have to tell this but I don't know if I can do it justice. For Christmas, I got a giftcard to the Malai Day Spa down the road. I have been so excited to use it. They were having a special on one-hour massages so I decided to get a babysitter and take advantage of it. I have been SOOO in need of a massage lately. I haven't slept well lately, I wake up and feel like I've been hit by a train, and my neck and back have been stressed and tired. It was definitely time. So I call them to schedule an appt. and ask if they use massage oils and essential oils with massages because I like the smelly stuff. It makes me feel relaxed. They said that this lady was really good, her schedule is always full, and that she uses oils all the time. GREAT!! I show up and this little japanese lady greets me with her sweet smile. First off, you know those ladies that wear very noticeable lipliner on the "outsides" of their lips? Well, she was one of them. She takes me in the room with two massage tables and a mattress on the floor with a black sheet. With broken English she asks me where my pain is. I mention that I have major lower back pain and my neck and shoulders are hurting. She tells me to lay down on the black mattress......well to make a long long story short. For 1 hour.....I got thrashed! I kept my clothes on the whole time and this little lady proceeds to knead around my spine and dig into my shoulers, neck, and back. She was a little monkey climbing all over me. She used no massage oil so it felt like an "indian burn" as she gouges around my neck and shoulders. I had my head facing the mattress and my eyes were open the whole time confused. To be honest I was a little stunned. I know that I was in an Thai Day spa but I figured it was a regular massage or at least they would give me the option. She then proceed to maneuver my body in ways I never thought possible. ....see pictures below. These are half of the moves that were pulled on me today....I'm not joking. I thought at first that she would sort of work my back muscles and then proceed on with a regular massage. Uhmmmm no! On one of the "moves" I started to giggle cuz it was so "foreign" and I couldn't stop laughing cuz I could only imagine what this looked like and I wished someone was there to see this. After an hour, with a few massage tapping and karate chopping....we finish! I LEFT in more pain than I came in. Not to mention I have LOWER BACK pain...see pictures below! I know I should have said something but with broken English, this was extremely awkward. AnywayZZZ I've been laughing all night. I sort of feel ...violated or something. I was going to tell the receptionist that I wasn't expecting this or ...something but as I walked up to her the lady is standing right there with a huge grin on her face. I couldn't do it. SO AWKWARD.! After a little research I guess this is what you call a Thai massage. Well Everyone. I would NOT recommend...especially if you have lower back issues. Evan came home and I couldn't stop laughing as I was trying to show him the "moves." It did make up for a funny awkward experience though...which typically are my favorite things in life. Thanks Renee laughing with me today! So what do you think people? Do I call and "complain" or just go on with my life and never set foot in that spa again?

Conversation with Evan over the past few days..Niki you'll enjoy this one!!

2008-07-11T23:39:00.005-06:00

WEDNESDAY
Evan: Hey Em, I have the day off on Friday and I'm planning on going fishing with YOU!
Emily: That sounds like so much fun. I'm so excited. Where to?
Evan: The Owyhee's fishing for brown trout.
Emily(in my mind): That is so precious my husband wants to go fishing as a family with me. How cute is that! We'll take a picnic, take pictures, Mack and Brooklyn will love it. My husband is so cool!
THURSDAY
Emily: Is the fishing still on for Friday Ev?
Evan: Yes, I'm going fishing with YOU!
Emily(in my mind): I am so excited! This is going to be so much fun.
THURSDAY NIGHT
Emily: Now where are we going Evan?
Evan: I'm going to the Owyhee's with HUGH
Emily: WHAT....ZZWHWWWAA?
Evan: HUGH, my friend HUGH, you know my fishing friend.
Emily: silence......silence...silence.....silence....OH..HUGH....not YOU!

She Strikes Again

2008-07-11T01:23:00.003-06:00

Well, she's done it again. She never ceases to amaze me. I let my nephew ride this little devil in the Bear Lake parade over the 4th and look who made a little impression on someone. Yep, you guessed it!! She won an award for the best "classic" car...somethin' like that. So proud, so very proud! We won twenty-five bucks!!

D' ALENE COEUR

2008-07-09T22:18:00.003-06:00

One time my mom answered her phone and it was for Abby. She looked on caller and ID and said, "Abby, someone is on the phone for you..it's D' Alene Coeur." Confused, Abby comes to the phone and looks on the caller ID. Well, needless to say, it was someone calling from Coeur D' Alene. My Mom gets confused sometimes but that's why we love her.

Brooklyn and I went to the library for story time. It was Eric Carle Day and so we read all of his books and did a little craft shin-dig. Brooklyn already knows how to write her name and paste and glue. What a smarty pants. Takes after her mom.
We went to Coeur d' Alene and Elk to see our lovely friends Emmett and Ashley. It was so fun! We lived up in the woods for 5 days. I caught 20 bass fish while I was there. Yes, I'm bragging! It is such a beautiful part of Idaho. This pic is as Lake Coeur d' Alene. Brooklyn was so funny. This was her face the whole time. I picture her thinking "Oh my feet, they're getting wet. Oh, my swimsuit is too tight...I'm fat in my suit. I don't like it here." She had a low whiny voice but no tears just whiny voice.

We went on a hike in the dead heat of 97 degrees. Ashley and I perservered and made the trek.
This is at the Lake too. We don't take many family pictures I must confess. I need to be better at it.

FUNNY STORY

2008-06-19T14:37:00.003-06:00

So....I've come to realize that I'm a pretty smart girl...ya know,...got my head on straight...a realist...booksmart...good grades in college...I read and like to to learn new things. BUT....there was this one time when I was in hygiene school and I had my semester review with Mrs. Kawamura...and to make it short...she told me that they've concluded that I'm a "scatterbrain." What the heck!!! Needless to say I was organizing queen after that. I admit sometimes I'm not the smartest tool in the shed when it comes to common sense. For instance I am a full-on hands-on learner. Evan, on the other hand,...he is so full of figuring things out on his own. OK so I'm not the most common sense smart. Here's my story. Since having Brooklyn my hair has been shedding by the handfuls. It's so annoying. Whenever I shower, clumps and clumps come out so I have to clean out the drain every second so it won't clog up. Well, about a month ago, I noticed the drain clogging up and it wouldn't drain so while I'm showering the water would continue to rise to my ankles and it would take forever to drain afterwards. I tried to get Ev to fix it but sometimes he likes me to learn his way and just "figure it out" on my own. So I unscrew the drain, reach in there and NOOOO hair whatsoever. So I buy draino stuff and use it twice on the drain and nothing. Still, it continued to clog. I hate this cuz it leaves that grime on the sides of the tub which is soooo gross. Keep in mind this was a month ago so I've been showering like this for a month with water up to my calves almost. Well,.....the other night I was showering and I get out of the shower to dry off and I'm so frustrated because I can't figure it out by myself...and I don't know what to do. So I'm staring at the tub for like 5 minutes and then....then it hits me. My eyes turn to the drain.....then to the switch that you switch when you want to take a bath. This was all in slow motion by the way. Slowly I reach over to it...and press the switch down. It starts to drain. I have had that stinkin' lever up this whole time!!!! So embarrassing. I have been laughing at myself for days. I am such a DITZ! Mrs. Kawamura was right...I am a little scatterbrained. Just thought you all might enjoy this story just so that you all won't think I'm perfect, which most of you think that I am. It's hard to admit ladies but it's true. Emily is not perfect as you might think....I'm totally joking on that last one for those who may not understand my humor.

AND THE WINNER IS.........

2008-06-19T11:17:00.003-06:00

Sorry about the delay ladies, I had a crazy weekend last weekend and ....well, I'll use that as an excuse. So I put each and every one of you in a bowl and had Brooklyn reach in and pick one out. Now, remember, whoever wins has to play this game on there blog. and the winner is ........NICOLE STUCKI!!!!! CONGRATS!!!! Oh, what the luck!!! Tara is going to DIE! Oh Nicole, I need your address to send you the goods!!! My email is emilyharris12@hotmail.com. Send it soon and I'll send you a present soon....soon from my watch that is...JK. Thanks for playing, that was really fun!

B-PICS

2008-06-11T16:19:00.002-06:00

Here are a few pictures of this little stinker!!This one actually is my favorite. She smiles with her mouth open so wide.
This picture Evan took while she was sleeping with her bumb up in the air..pretty much every night she does this.
I don't know why I love these faces the best...just "what the heck mom, I'm taking a bath, can I have a little privacy, please"...3 seconds after this pic, she had both the washcloth and rubber ducky in her mouth.

I'm not sure her eyes can open any wider. Bonnie, Ev's sister gave her this shirt which has a Brook Trout...thus Brooklyn...thus that's where her name came from...JK it didn't but Evan likes to pretend it did.

MY LIST OF FAVORITES!!!!!

2008-06-07T22:48:00.005-06:00

I was HONORED to win a prize on Nicole's List of Favorite's Post awhile back. I won a gift card to IKEA. I'm so excited to use it..I go online to decide and then, of course, I can't decide, then I get anxious, then four hours later...you get the point. ANYWAYZZZ. I have to carry on the tradition to list my Fav's.

So the List o' Favorites blog game works like this:

Blog host shares some favorites; People comment on which item they would like to win; Blog host randomly draws a winning name; Blog host gifts the winner with their choice from list o' favorites; and Winner then carries on the List o' Favorites game on their blog. Let us begin.

#1: The first lucky fav is the one and only Chocolate Covered Cinnamon Bears. I capitalized them because it is a Proper noun to me. Have you ever tried them? OH my mouth is watering! I don't remember the first time I tried them but my mom gave me some for Christmas and I devoured them. We would buy them at Porter's Bookstore when we were little...they were the best treat. At first, you don't think they go together...then....then you put them in your mouth...trust me, there's no going back!!!!

#2. So I've been a little "crafty" lately and I found these on some random blog that I stalk. Yes, it's true there are a few I stalk. She's just so darn creative or at least she finds cute stuff out through other blogs...you know how it is. So these are felt hair clips. They are so stinkin' cute. There are so many cute styles...well, I made a few and am willing to give a pair to a lucky winner. Most of you girlies have little girls and they are just adorable in their hair. Maybe Cooper will look good in them too with his curly locks..jk Nicole. Too bad Brooklyn baby has not so much hair these days so I will perservere (sp) until she grows up.

#3. If you didn't know this about me. I have to put lotion on my feet every night before I go to bed. It's one of those weird habits I got myself into long ago. My friend Julia used to make fun of me in college. Then, guess who tried it and is addicted! Yep, you guessed it. I try sometimes to go without and then I sit and ponder and stu (sp) in bed until I go nuts and I have to get out of bed and put lotion on my feet. Along time ago, my sister, Heather, who works at Melaleuca gave me this lotion. It is divine I tell you. It smells so good, that arometherapy minty, chamomile, pepperminty smell. It feels so good on your feet. I love this stuff and so will you. What a great way to go to bed at night ya know. I'll give you a tube of this lotion. #4. Next is Woven Floss by Reach. I am a fan. I use it on most of my patients and myself and recommend it ALL THE TIME. It's good stuff. It flosses your teeth better than any floss I know. I would post a pic..I tried but I couldn't move it around on my blog and I got frustrated cuz I tried to add it last and it jacked up my post so no pic for this one. Here's the link : http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/images/B000FTYOXU/ref=dp_image_0?ie=UTF8&n=3760901&s=hpc

5 Last but not least. I LOVE COLORED TOOTSIE ROLLS! I'm pretty sure my fam knows this for sure. I'm addicted! I love all flavors. Mostly blue raspberry, strawberry, grape, and watermelon. They are hard to buy these days. I have my secret spots! They hook me up and so will I, hook you up. They remind me of Seminary in high school, my birthdays, and right now my sister has a huge bowl over and her house and she never eats them, then I come over and eat them for her. Even if they are old and hard I'll eat them. MMMMMMMMM. I'll give you 100, yep that's right, you heard me, 100 tootsie rolls of your choice!
Think about this one, so many choices, so little time! GOOD LUCK!!! EMILINE

Brooklyn pics

2008-06-04T14:26:00.002-06:00

I know some are a little blurry but I just need to post of few pics of this little stinker...ya know, actually, she is not a stinker whatsoever. She has been SO fun!! This is her little chair that evan sits her in..we checked it out and there is no way she would fall through. She loves it.
This is her glazed over look. Two seconds later she was OUT cold.

This is my brother Jesse...I call him Jezzabelle, I love this pic!! He misses her so I had to post this one.

sunset pics

2008-05-22T12:58:00.002-06:00

Sunday we went for a little hike out by the river.
The sun was setting so I wanted to try this little technique
to make sillouettes in sunset!

TO MOM FROM EM

2008-05-11T20:55:00.002-06:00

LOOK AT THAT ATTITUDE ALREADY!!

I SEE SO MUCH OF EVAN IN HER...especially the foot-in-mouth picture..JK!!

Happy Mother's Day to my Dear Madre!! I hope you enjoy the pics!! I hope you had a great DAY and know that we all LOVE you!! Love, ME

Kewpi Doll

2008-04-25T20:53:00.001-06:00

My mom has told me about these Kewpi dolls but I had never heard of them. Then she posted this pic of one along with Brooklyn's picture on our family's blog so I thought I would share it here.

GREEN RIVER

2008-04-21T11:54:00.006-06:00

Posting a few pics for the fam of our trip to Green River with the Hoge family.
It's always an adventure when the Hoge's get together. His family calls it a seige..well because it is! It's the seige's that make it most memorable. I was telling Evan last night that every member of his family adds a certain dynamic to the family. Without one..it wouldn't be the same. We can't wait for Bear Lake on the Fourth. Sarah, thanks for the Hotel Larson and Bonnie, watch out for flying pizza!! JK One funny story my friends will enjoy! I was feeding Brooklyn in the car at McDonalds downtown SLC before Seneca and I left for Green River. As I'm in the car, this homeless man comes up to my car window and asks me for spare change. This sure was awkward. Here I am half naked feeding my baby and this man is asking me to find my purse and give him change trying not to expose myself. I roll down my window about an inch and yell, "Can't you see I'm nursing my baby!" He just stood there like it was no big deal. Generous Seneca gives him a buck. Just typical that awkward things happen to me like this. I love that awkwardness sometimes.

That's what i'm talkin' about!!

2008-04-13T22:03:00.004-06:00

Brooklyn, Mack, and I went on a little jaunt around the neighborhood this fine beautiful evening. I've been trying to take my camera along so I can take pictures. You never know what will happen and you always wished that you would have brought your camera. You know how when you go shopping and you love it when you get a "good find?" Well, instead of shopping, my "good finds" are moments like this. As I'm strolling right along, my eye catches this.... Yep that's right...Right here in Boise... This nice gentlemen was walking with his wife or friens who was using a walker. It was so sweet of him to walk with her. ...true love right here. I can picture his saying, "Just going for a little stroll in the nieghborhood and I think I'll pull out my nice red Zuba-zebra pants.,..they have such good ventilation and that nice breeze will feel so refreshing...Maybe my wife will hold my hand if I sport these bad boyZZ." I feel really bad for poking fun. I acted like I was taking pictures of some flowers on the trees and pulled out my one of a kind stealth moves to capture this priceless picture. You can thank me later. But you can't see his face and I couldn't resist..I mean c'mon...this is art ladies and gentlemen and it brought back so many memories of Zuba pants! Does anyone remember these? Zack? anyone?

Here's a little pic of my sweetheart! We've been having lots of girl time while Evan is on his "man-cation." She's so happy. It's so funny when I'll lay her down for a nap and she'll start crying.... so I wait a bit then I go in her room cuz she's screaming her head off and here I am trying to be serious so that she'll go back to sleep and as I walk in she sees me and this HUGE grin comes on her face and her eyes light up and she starts kicking her feet. So I can't even be mad at her and it makes me laugh at her and then of course she smiles bigger..then I have to pick her up and hug her cuz she's my girl and I have to take care of her you know.

ONE LINERS!!!!?

2008-04-08T23:36:00.003-06:00

So my friends tend to think that I have these "one liners." I seriously can't think of any. I don't really have very many that I could call classic! Help me out here girls. Give me some hints. Oh wait!!!... There is ONE...one, however, that tends to be brought up every so often when I need to be thrashed!! I never knew this would come back to haunt me. Here ya go, enjoy it and take it for what it's worth. One time, when my girlfriends Nicole, Niki, Jeener, Sherry, and I were vacationing in Hawaii, we rented these scooters to haul around the Island and cause havoc...we OWNED Hawaii for awhile after that you might want to know....we tend to do that when we go places..kinda like the firestation in New York! I'll explain another day. Well, and upon returning them, this stinky owner got mad at us because my friend, Jeener, was late returning hers and we didn't fill up the gas tank all the way..yadda yadda yadda. C'mon dude, it was like 25 cents short and your dealing with the tightwad girls of America who weaseled anything they could in those days just to get by. So, as this big, fat Hawaiian man starts yelling at us..for no reason..mind you..:) we tried to pull the poor me, cute innocent girl card and say we're sorry and bat our eyes... well let's just say that didn't work. So he starts to say every cuss word known to man at us and telling us to "get off HIS island" I just stood there in awe. How dare he! How dare he talk to me like that. Now you need to remember I was like 18 years old and this innocent girl from Newdale, Idaho without a mean bone in my body(back me up on this one girls) and I wasn't aware that people actually said all those words at one place..at one time, and in one sentence..I didn't know they could all come together like that...I mean that's talent right there. So, ANYWAYYYZZZZZ(nicole...that was for you) this big fat Hawaiian dude goes off on me and I just stand there and as I started to walk off..or Nicole was dragging me off because I was so stunned and dumbfounded...I couldn't let this man take me down to this Misery I was in, this endless woe..I couldn't let him talk to ME, ME of all people..HOW DARE HE!!!! I couldn't let him win the fight. So as I'm walking off, I slowly turn around and it came to me.....It came to me so smoothly, so gracefully.."SHUT UP YOU BIG MEANIE!!!" and there it was..I said it!! WHAT?? Shut up you big meanie?? What the heck? That's what I come up with? Are you kidding me? Of all the things to say to a Big Fat Hawaiian Sailormouth Man..that's what I pull off? Well, Ladies and Gentlemen..yes..I said it,that was it, there ya go. There was no taking it back! And that was that...Oh yes, Nicole gave him the big fat Bird on our way out and told every customer in line to not rent from him. I'll never live that down. I'll hear it to my grave. The end!!

I HAD TO!!...JUST ONE MORE!!

2008-04-02T01:52:00.002-06:00

Look at this little stinker!! Stare deep into her eyes!! Focus...Focus...you're getting very sleepy...so am I, ......it's 2 in the morn...I must go to sleep!

Precious Cargo

2008-04-02T01:37:00.003-06:00

Isn't she the cutest thing!! I just love her!!
And here they are.... my most precious cargo!!!
Brooklyn's little Easter dress!!

It's been so fun hangin' out with this little girl!! Thank goodness she puts up with me! She doesn't have much of a choice these days!! I'll post more pics soon.

Crazy Snow

2008-03-28T17:55:00.002-06:00

So I'm home here at my moms in Wilford!! It's been so fun. My mom and I were playing around with our cameras and took this little photo out in front of my moms house. Don't you just love all this crazy snow. I don't mind it but everyone here is pretty much sick of it.

NEW JEANS!!!

2008-03-16T23:57:00.002-06:00

I've found them!!! The jeans I've been looking for!! They are the perfect fit. I couldn't as for a better pair. Thanks to my friend Mary for introducing them to me!! Tell me what you think of them. One try and you'll be hooked too.

http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=3395849

SHE'S CRAFTY!!!!

2008-03-11T21:57:00.005-06:00

Looks like "someone" has been a little busy...hmmmm?!! These are the little crafts I've been working on lately. The girly booties were my first pair I made and then I made the boyish booties with a little more experience under my belt...it was a cinch..jk. All right people...here's an excuse to have a baby so that I can make these for you. Nicole..I'm workin' on yours...patience is a virtue. It seriously has been so fun and I've learned so much about sewing lately and weird....I actually like it. I feel nerdy but....a kind of.....cool...nerdy! Now all I need is a sewing machine...if anyone hears of a good deal let me know. Below is my little precious girl 3mo old. Oh she is so good to me!

TA-DA!!!

2008-03-06T14:38:00.003-07:00

Ya, I sew!! Didn't you know that? Just kidding
This is one of my first endeavors! Luckily I had my posse(sp)
with me for moral support! We had so much fun
making these bibs. My friends have THE cutest kids!
It took us all day to make them due to "minor"
interruptions! I'm taking orders! That's a joke people....only a joke!