Christmas Fun

Last week my mom planned a special night for the Hoopes' family. We were treated to dinner at Blue Plate Diner and then headed to This Is the Place Heritage Park.
Blue Plate Diner was great for everyone. The kids especially loved to pick out songs on the jukebox...it was free so especially great. Elvis seemed to be the most popular among them. The menu for the diner included everything from burgers to breakfast. I thought we were going to miss the whole dinner scene. We locked our keys inside the house. How do you do that?, you might ask. It's called lack of communication between the spouses. Luckily, my mom saved the day and we made it in time.


Everyone had a great time at the park in spite of the below freezing temperatures. Amy was a bit envious of Watson's little fleece cocoon, but we managed to stay warm with hand warmers in our gloves and love in our hearts...I know, so cheesy but it seems to fit.

The kids were able to run around and we learned the Virginia Reel. Everyone danced, including Uncle Travis. And, we all had a good time! It was so cute to watch Paris & Addison run around and learn the steps too. I'm sure Watson was jealous and that was why he cried during that part.

The park has an old timey candy store. It was fun to see and taste some things that are a bit less commonplace at Target. Their dark chocolate toffee almonds are REALLY yummy.

Thanks to my mom we had a great time. It's nice to do something different and really contributes to great memories for our family. You're the best Mom!!!

I Can't Resist

Now that I'm getting back on track for posting news and such, I can't resist adding a few more Watson pictures. It makes me want to take more pictures of Chandler too--I've slacked a little on that. 3 month old boys are a lot easier to capture than 9 year old boys who don't really sit still. :)

Late but Thankful

I've been thinking a lot lately of all the things to be grateful about, partly because of the season and partly because I'm emerging from my "new mother" fog. First and foremost I am thankful for having the gospel in my life. It is really easy to forget how great it is and what it means for day to day living. I lose sight often of the eternal perspective of things but I know I can always find my way back to it once I take the time to be still and listen to the spirit. I'm grateful for a loving Father in Heaven who knows me and wants me to learn and be happy. I'm next grateful for my family. I feel very blessed to be married to Scott and have two boys of my own. It's ok that I'll probably always be outnumbered. Everyday has laughter and smiles because of them. My extended family is fantastic as well. I really think my post-Watson recovery would have been much more difficult and depressing without Challey and Amy's support and unconditional love. I love to spend time with my mom and other family and am so grateful to live close enough to have the chance to be together often...along with that I'm thankful Scott is patient and loving enough with me to participate too. I'm grateful to live where I do and know the people I know. I'm constantly amazed at the generosity of time and talent given by the people in my ward. I aspire to be like my girlfriends who are so accepting and constant. Yes, life really is beautiful and I want to be grateful daily.

Ode to Scott

My head and heart are thick with love for you

I don't think I could be married to anyone more true

Whenever I look into your eyes and smile

I can't think of anyone else of which I'd like to spend awhile

Talking and laughing and dreaming of days ahead

At the end of the day my love bank has been well fed

I'm so glad you are you and you let me be me

I expect to celebrate more of your birthdays until you are ninety-three!!

Happy Birthday and I love you!