Shipley Family

Family Pics!

2010-12-26T16:03:00.001-08:00

The Pumpkin Patch

2010-11-21T08:29:00.001-08:00

Gracie and Trey on the hay ride.
Brevin doing the hay ride and the maze.

All my favorite kids :)

Gracie, Logan, Trey, Brevin, Jack

The rule is: You have to be able to carry the pumpkin you pick.

Labor Day Camping

2010-11-17T13:05:00.001-08:00

I love my boys :)

There is nothing like breakfast in the trailer.

4-wheeler ride with Grandma and Grandpa

Grandpa taught Trey how to shoot his BB gun behind his back.

Then taught Brevin how to play horseshoes.

This is how they fell asleep in the truck on the way home.

I Already Miss Summer!

2010-11-08T08:13:00.000-08:00

First Day of School

2010-11-04T08:54:00.001-07:00

I love this kid. It was his first day at a new school.

He is so smart and has loved every minute of it.

This is Trey's true personality :)

Wakeboarding

2010-08-27T06:27:00.000-07:00

I love to see my boys do new things.

Trey has gotten really good at wakeboarding this past summer.

I love to see his confidence, and his smile :)

I just love this picture.

Those blue eyes kill me.

Grotto Hike

2010-08-23T07:42:00.000-07:00

We did this hike early in the summer. It was so crowded, but the kids loved it.

SUMMER 2010

2010-08-18T10:13:00.000-07:00

I have definitely proven that I am a terrible blogger. Here are some random pictures of things we have done this summer:

Brevin and Dad washing the car.

Swinging in the backyard.

Trey at Soccer Camp.

Playin' Ball.

Boating, of course.

Trey is an awesome wakeboarder too.

Our backyard pool.

Bill is such a good sport :)

The boys wear themselves out every day.

How can you not love that?

Zoo

2010-05-24T11:44:00.001-07:00

We decided to go to the zoo for Brev's first birthday. Trey has never been either and he was out of school for Spring Break, so it seemed like the perfect time to go.

Things never do go perfectly.

We left the house an hour later than we planned. When we stopped at the gas station, I realized that I forgot a binkie. Instead of going home (a whole 5 minutes away) we stopped at the walmart to buy one. Little did I know that would be the first of 3 walmart trips that day.

Everything was going good until we were ready to get off onto I-215. This is the moment when Brevin throws up in the car. So poor Bill is trying to make his way through traffic with a crying, puky baby, and a hysterical wife. I'm sure the drivers around us really appreciated the view they got of my butt as I was kneeling backwards in my seat trying to clean up puke with a kleenex.

The next 20 minutes were spent driving around looking for, yes, another walmart. It is a little known fact that a new t-shirt, wet wipes, and febreze make the perfect gift for a 1 year old.

We finally make it to the zoo. It was a little chilly and most of the animals did not want to come out and play and don't even get me started on "The Great Salad Fiasco"!

At least my boys had fun, and I can finally say I have taken them to the zoo.

Walmart stop #3 was to get a birthday cake for Brevin that he could destroy and no one would eat! Yay!

This is how Brevin started his trip.

This monkey looks like I felt after the throw up incident. Not to mention, my beautiful boy Trey, dropped my FULL 44 oz. Diet Dr. Pepper while we were in line to buy tickets. If you know me well, you know that that was the greatest tragedy of the day :)

Does he look like he is enjoying this at all?

This is how Brevin ended his trip to the zoo.

My Baby is 1

2010-04-09T16:27:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking about the night Brevin was born a lot in the last week. So many parts of it I would love to forget (parts Bill would like to forget too), but just look what I got out of it:

More haircuts

2010-04-06T16:18:00.000-07:00

I couldn't leave out my other boys' haircuts.

This was taken about 3 years ago, right after I shaved all 3 of their heads.

All my handsome Williams. I, II, and III.

(Bill's dad, Bill, and Trey)

Brevin's First Haircut

2010-04-06T12:52:00.000-07:00

This was done about a month ago, but if you can't tell, I am very slow about blogging anything:)

This is Brevin before

During

And after.

He did so good. No tears and not too much wiggling.

Thanks to my friend Britney for the haircut. We will be calling you soon for round 2!

Birthday

2010-04-06T09:44:00.000-07:00

It was my birthday, and normally I really don't care to let everyone know I have had a birthday, but the pics of the kids were too cute not to post:)

Brevin, Trey, Logan and Gracie helping me to blow out the candles.

Jack thought the cake was REALLY GOOD!

And yes, these are my boys eating ice cream while sitting in a laundry basket.

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-19T18:58:00.001-08:00

These are the boys I love the most!!!!

2010 Hooper Cake Contest

2010-02-18T11:50:00.000-08:00

The rules for the contest:

1) Everything had to be edible.

2) Nothing Profane

3) No help from the wives. Boys Only!

Creator: Bill

Prize: Best Decorated

Creator: Brett (my brother)

Prize: Most Original

Creator: Brad (my brother-in-law)

Prize: Best Theme (the contest was held on Valentine's Day)

Creator: Marshall (my brother)

Prize: Best Tasting

My mom and Dad were the Judges, but everyone got in on the taste testing.

Shout Out to Kim

2010-02-05T16:29:00.000-08:00

Kim is Bill's sister, who has become like a sister to me too.

She loves my boys and our family and would do anything for us.

She is an awsome mom.

She is the most giving, humble person I know.

She is a gourmet cook:)

She is stronger than she knows, and is my hero in so many ways.

We love you, Kim!

2010-01-19T20:37:00.000-08:00

You would think we would be sick of cake around here, but nope.
Here is experiment #3--Chocolate Raspberry Torte.

Bill does all of these cakes on his own.

I just stand back and try not to be too OCD about the mess being made in my kitchen:)

Not really, most of you know that Bill is more OCD than I am. Scary.

Each layer is brushed with a Raspberry Glaze.

3 yummy layers of whipped cream frosting.

OOOOOHHH.....AAHHHHH

Trey is the lucky dog that gets to taste-test everything that Dad makes.

Tennessee Pride

2010-01-18T15:43:00.000-08:00

Any of you who know Bill very well, will know how proud he is to be from Tennessee.

Not just Tennessee, but Northeast Tennessee.

Anyway, my mom found a recipe for Tennessee Whiskey Cake, and given that cake is Bill's newest obsession, he had to give it a try.

Bill's first time using a springform pan.

The batter with real Jack Daniels.

Don't worry, the alcohol cooks out.....I think;)

Before the sauce....

...and after the sauce.

It was butter rum sauce. Delicious!

Just Because...

2010-01-17T11:14:00.000-08:00

Brevin with the love of his young life--Grandma Toodie:)

Little Bit of Christmas

2010-01-14T11:24:00.000-08:00

I really hate that all the pictures are in backwards order, but I am too lazy to move them.
JUST DEAL WITH IT!

Christmas morning we were terrible at taking pictures.
So we only have one picture of each of them opening a gift:(

Forget what you have been told about cookies and milk.
Caffiene is the real way Santa survives Christmas Eve!
Yes, that is me adding MORE Diet Coke to my Route 44.
I swear I heard angels singing when I discovered that Sonic was open on Christmas Eve.

Trey's Christmas Eve gift--a new robe

Brevin got pajamas.

Trey and cousins singing Little Drummer Boy.

Trey reading a Christmas book to the whole family.

Look at all that glorious food at Kim's Christmas Eve party.

Trey and I made a Gingerbread Train.

What was I thinking?!

Thanks for the help, Gracie and Logan!

Santa came to our Hooper Family Party. Brevin hated him.

Setting up the tree.

9 MONTHS!!!

2010-01-11T08:29:00.000-08:00

Brevin is so fun right now, and always making us laugh. He and Trey are best buddies, and Trey is so good at taking care of him. Now that Brevin is moving, nothing is safe. But it is all worth it:) Even all the sleepless nights. Still!!!!

Bill"s "Man Cake"

2010-01-11T08:08:00.000-08:00

Bill decided that he wanted to out do the Cake Boss.
After 3 trips to the grocery store, 2 days to bake and decorate, and 1 sleepless night---this is the result:

Incredibly red batter.

Trey helping clean up the mess:)

Just out of the oven.

3 layers of evil deliciousness.

(there were supposed to be 4, but it would've toppled)

Bill shaving the white chocolate curls.

Hands off! I know the apron is sexy, but he's spoken for!

TA-DAH!!

The first slice:)

The cake can also be called "Red Velvet Just for the Hell of it"

Great job, Bill!

This cake has inspired a cake contest with Bill, my brothers, and brother-in-law. My parents will be judging for taste and creativity. I will post pictures and results after Valentine's Day.

Trick or Treating

2009-11-30T15:18:00.000-08:00

Trey was the ninja from GI Joe, Snake Eyes.
Breving was a monkey, which is very fitting and what he gets called that at least 50 times a day.
I am a mom:)

Trey and Logan, I mean Bumblebee!

Trey and his friend Nathan, looking way too big.

Trey's haul.

Carving, Cooking, and Costumes

2009-11-30T15:11:00.000-08:00

Trey is so proud of his work, and got to light the Jack-o-Lanterns all by himself.

This is as crafty as gets around here, folks. Eyball cakeballs (stolen and modified from Emily's Cake Blog)

Wow, that's all I can say, wow;)

Pumpkin Patch

2009-11-30T14:58:00.000-08:00

I love my boys!!!

Brevin was not cooperating, he was more interested in Trey.

This is Trey looking for the "perfect" pumpkin.

Did I mention that I love my boys?

2009-11-20T08:05:00.000-08:00

Trey played Running Back, Quarterback, and Safety.

He had such a great time, and we really liked his coach.

It was so fun to watch. We can't wait til next year!

Brevin and Grandma Hooper trying to stay warm.

Trey Soccer

2009-11-18T08:17:00.000-08:00

All that scoring, makes Trey thirsty.

Bill was the unofficial assistant coach.

Brevin and Logan are Trey's biggest fans.

It was so fun to watch Trey this year. They are at the age where they are starting to learn positions and how to work together as a team.

Boating 2009

2009-09-25T14:36:00.001-07:00

Trey wakeboarding! He has gotten so good at it, he can literally do it with his eyes closed.

Brevin loves the water already.
Let's face it, does he really have a choice?
He was really good, and loved to splash even when the water was cold.

Bill wakeboarding!
I don't know if this trick has a name, but I thought it was awesome that he grabbed his board.
We don't claim to be pros, so this is pretty cool:)

Me wakeboarding, and doing no tricks:(

5 MONTHS OLD!!!

2009-09-08T19:25:00.000-07:00

It is still hard to believe we are lucky enough to have him here. But here he is: Our giggly, smily, very active, round ball of rolling joy!

Tennessee!!

2009-09-03T11:19:00.001-07:00

This is Bill's parents house and property. It is awesome and far away from the craziness. It is the perfect place for a vacation. They even have a hot tub.

This is a hike at a national park in nearby Kentucky.

Ferris wheel at Dollywood.
Trey and grandpa eating some chicken wings.

Bill with his huge Mt. Dew, and me with an even bigger turkey leg.

We got rained out at Dollywood, but still had a great time. Trey rode his first "REAL" roller coaster.

What Brevin did while we were at Dollywood.

we went on a small hike to a nearby cave.

GOOD FOOD, AND WIFFLE BALL EVERY NIGHT!!!

Trey caught 20 fish in two fishing trips, he loved it!

Lazy mornings...

and swinging with grandma.

Jazz Bear

2009-07-18T16:31:00.000-07:00

The Jazz Bear was at the hardware store this week, and Trey had the chance to meet him. The Bear gave him two posters and even signed his shirt. It made Trey's day. (thanks for the heads-up Ross)

Fun at the Ballpark

2009-07-18T16:12:00.001-07:00

We had the chance to go to our first OWLZ game with my friend Jane and her family the other night, and we all had so much fun (if you don't count the 10 min. rainstorm. Brevin hated that part)

Brevin with his rally cap--It must have worked, cuz the OWLZ came from behind to win.

Trey's buddy Logan.

My buddy Jane.

Trey and Brevin.

It was so much fun just hanging out with great friends and watching the kids chase foul balls and stuffing themselves on ballpark food. We can't wait to go again!

Best Cake Blog Ever

2009-07-15T08:55:00.000-07:00

My good friend Emily, who i would like to hire until the end of time to make all my families birthday cakes, has started a cake blog.
I am not a cake maker, I am a cake buyer, but there are some seriously cute cakes on her site that might even inspire me to try.
So if you love baking. or even if you just pretend to, you have got to check it out. Go to http://thecutestcakesintown.blogspot.com/

4th of July

2009-07-11T11:19:00.000-07:00

Trey on the dirt bike.

We went camping on the 3rd. We came back to have a bbq on the 4th, and probably like most of you, our fireworks plan got rained out.

So on the 5th, we had Bill's sister and Jane's family over for a game of croquet and a few fireworks.

Bill, Trey, Gracie and Zachary.

This was taken right after Weston's eyebrow singeing incident.
The noise didn't bother Brevin, but Jack wasn't so sure.

Summer Fun!

2009-07-11T11:11:00.000-07:00

Trey and Logan

This was taken at Spanish Fork Resevoir, right before the downpour :(
I've never seen so many people move so fast.

Allie, Trey, Dallin and Ty.

Water games at the Benson's.

Play Ball!

2009-07-11T11:05:00.001-07:00

I didn't get nearly enough pictures this year.

This was Trey's last season of coach-pitch, and I can see such a big difference in how he plays now. I am excited to see how he does in Little League. Bill was his coach this year and he did such a fantastic job. I think he might've even had more fun than the boys.

Baptism, Blessing, & Birthdays

2009-07-11T10:49:00.000-07:00

We baptized Trey and blessed Brevin on the same day. It was very special for us to be able to do that. Bill did an awesome job, and I'm not going to lie--I cried through the entire thing. I can't believe my 1st baby is 8, and hearing OUR baby be blessed is a miracle in itself. It was the best day! The only thing missing was Grandma Toodie and Grandpa Willie. You were there in our hearts--We miss and love you.

I am so proud of my 3 boys.

Trey opening gifts.

I love it when we actually get him something he really wants.

Trey waited patiently for his "friend" party. It was almost a month after his birthday, because for some reason I didn't quite feel up to it 2 weeks after having a baby :)

Boating....Finally!

2009-07-10T21:39:00.000-07:00

Bill's first run of the year. Feels so good.

Trey's first run. He went about 20 ft, but he got up on his first try.

Brevin in his super-fitted life jacket. Seriously--could they not make one smaller. Our only choice is one that will fit him from 0-30 lbs. He will be wearing this until he is 4!

We went boating for the second time today. We took some good friends with us, which was really helpful with Brevin. Anyway, after all the adults had a turn to board, Trey wanted to get out on his board. MY BOY IS THE MAN!!! He popped right up and stayed up forever. He even went out of the wake, and he has never done that before. The best was the huge smile on his face. I am so proud of you, Dude!!!

3 Months Old!!!

2009-07-09T10:49:00.000-07:00

my baby is 3 months old! Sometimes it feels like he is still brand-new, but most of the time it feels like he has been with us forever. And we are loving every minute of it! (even the crying fits are music to our ears)

Grandma Toodie, sorry it took so long to get new pictures on here.

Newborn Pics

2009-05-01T22:33:00.001-07:00

I can't forget Bill

2009-04-25T11:51:00.001-07:00

(I can't find a picture of Bill without Trey or Brevin in it too, so here is one of all 3 of them)

Amidst all the baby drama, Bill had a birthday too. We had just gotten home from the hospital the day before so we didn't really do much. Being the sweet guy that he is, he said that he got a baby for his birthday and you can't ask for better than that.

I love this man. He is my best friend. He knows me better than anyone else and helps me be the best person I know I can be. I got so lucky when we found each other. He puts up with a lot from me and loves me anyway. Of course, I put up with a lot from him and love him anyway too :)

I hope we have many more celebrations to share together.

Happy Birthday Bill!!

My Baby is 8!

2009-04-25T11:27:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Trey's birthday. I cannot believe that I have an 8-year old. Make that an 8-year old that is smarter than me.

Here are 8 things that make Trey special:

1) The kid has an awesome sense of humor. He can deliver a punchline that leaves Bill and I speechless.

2) Trey is so smart. We are so proud of him and all the good work he does at school.

3) He is a mini-Bill. If Dad likes something, Trey likes it too. Plus, they look alike and have the same mannerisms. Once in a while, Trey will have a southern accent when he talks too.

4) Trey wants so bad to be a good kid. He is constantly asking us if things are good or bad.

5) He is my movie watching buddy. Every Friday is movie night at our house, and a time to snuggle on the couch.

6) He can wakeboard! I was scared to death at first to let him be in the water by himself, but he pops right up and cruises down the lake.

7) Trey is a great big brother. He is still new at it, but so far so good.

8) He will always be my baby!! He will always be our number one, and the one who's smile got us through some rough patches.

Thanks dude, I love you so much and hope you had a great day!!

"Deep Smit"

2009-04-17T14:37:00.001-07:00

It's true, "I am smitten, I am in deep smit"

(the first person to comment and name the movie this line is from, gets to bring me a Diet Coke :)

He Is Here

2009-04-16T20:30:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, I am a slacker. My computer is downstairs and I haven't been able to go down them very easily.
Brevin was supposed to be born today, but he decided to do some extra active somersaults and broke my water on the evening of the 7 th. After speeding to the hospital, we had to wait 3 hours for him to be born at 12:09 am on Wednesday the 8th.
Bill and I were crying as hard as he was as soon as we heard him. It was an amazing moment that was too short. Brevin wasn't breathing very well so they rushed him off to the NICU. Bill went with him while I was being finished up. Apparently there were some complications and talk of hysterectomy and a lot of blood loss. I did not realize how serious it was until the next day. If I hadn't had a c-section, things could have been really bad. Poor Bill was like a chicken with his head cut off, not knowing if he should be with me or Brevin. And my parents were left in my room for over an hour wondering what was taking so long. Thanks for sticking it out Mom and Dad!
Turns out that I was fine, just super tired and sad that I still hadn't been able to hold Brevin. The next morning we were told that he was probably going to be sent to UVRMC's NICU because he wasn't doing that well. But an hour later he was off the breathing tube and the steroid for his lungs was starting to work. He was in the NICU for 2 days and was moved up to well-baby status just in time to go home when I got released. Now he has jaundice, and has his own private tanning bed and gets his heel poked everyday to test his blood.
We are so happy he is with us, and he is worth everything.
I will post some pictures as soon as I download them from my camera, which involves practically laying on the floor to plug in the cord, and I am not in shape to do that yet.
Thanks to everyone for asking about us and all of your happy wishes. Love you all!

What a Difference a Year Makes

2009-04-07T15:09:00.000-07:00

As baby day gets closer, it is still so hard to believe. Bill and I are both so in awe, it is all we talk about.
I just want to send out a huge "THANKS" to everyone who has seen us through some crappy times when it comes to baby stuff.
Just last April, I think I was at my lowest low and I tried really hard to distance myself from everyone--Thank you for not letting me. To my friends for not giving up on me when I would come up with excuses not to go anywhere. To my family who have been there for all the downs. And especially to Bill, who is the hardest to "fake it" in front of because he knows me so well. And Trey, who has saved my life just by being. I am a lucky girl, and I love all of you :)

It's Official

2009-03-28T12:43:00.000-07:00

We went to the doctor yesterday and we are officially scheduled for a C-section on Thursday, April 16!!!
That is less than 3 weeks away, and I am freaking out a little bit, but in a good way.
They are guessing that he will still way 7.5 pounds even though he will be born 2 weeks early. The nurse thinks he will be even bigger than that.
We are so ready for him to be with us, I can't wait!!

Nursery pictures

2009-03-28T12:27:00.001-07:00

BEFORE...

DURING...

Trey and his buddy, Dallin, helped me paint.

Bill, doing beadboard. He had never done it before, and I think it turned out awesome.

Thanks Honey!!

Trey and Bill building the crib.

AFTER...

St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-28T12:19:00.000-07:00

Trey had the idea this year that he could catch a leprechaun. We made a trap, but those darn guys are just too sneaky. At least they leave treats.

(Ignore the underwear, and keep in mind that Trey just woke up, hence the really happy face)

Annual Hooper Bowling Tournament

2009-03-28T12:12:00.000-07:00

The whole family goes bowling every February in honor of both our Grandpa's who liked to bowl. There are trophies for the different categories. 1)Kids with bumpers 2)Kids without bumpers 3)Adults with bumpers 4)Adults without bumpers, and a couple others I can't remember.

Trey is the proud winner of the Kids With Bumpers Award for two years running.

Valentine's Day

2009-03-28T12:10:00.001-07:00

I had a night out with some friends, and left Bill to help Trey make his Valentine's Box for school. They did such a great job, that I think I will let Dad be in charge every year :)

It Finally Quit...

2009-02-27T10:30:00.000-08:00

About 6 months ago, my dishwasher started having issues and died on me.
I got a new dishwasher. At first it was great and quiet and did an awesome job at washing the dishes with no fuss.
Slowly, I started to notice a little grumbling sound now and then. Every night it seemed to get louder. Some nights I would do the dishes myself just to avoid the noise :)
Finally my B.I.L.L. dishwasher gave out on me and I was forced to buy a newer, younger, much quieter version.
My B.I.L.L. dishwasher was free, but some things are worth the money :)

Hanging out with Milsap

2009-02-19T19:12:00.001-08:00

Yesterday, Trey got a once in a lifetime chance to go to a basketball clinic at the Energy Solutions Center with a Jazz player.

The player who was there was Paul Milsap (he is my favorite).

Bill and I both went up to watch. It was really cool to be on the floor and to have your kid have that opportunity. It was awesome! We feel so lucky to be able to do things like that.

Here are some pictures in no particular order:

The Kid is on a Roll

2009-02-09T09:19:00.000-08:00

Trey has seriously been cracking me up so much lately, even when he is insulting me.
The other day we were driving home from karate, and Trey was in the backseat watching a movie with the headphones on.
I had the radio on pretty loud and I was singing along.
After the song was over Trey takes off his headphones and says, "Mom, it's pretty cool that you think you are a good singer."
He put his headphones back on and didn't say another word, and I didn't sing another note.
I should have just to embarass him.

Random comment from Trey:Part 2

2009-02-02T17:29:00.000-08:00

Trey was at karate today. He is practicing a kata to do for his school talent show.
My dad is his teacher, so after they were done, Grandpa says,"The chicks are going to dig it."

Trey looks at him, deadly serious and answers,"I'm not really looking for a relationship right now, Grandpa."

What kind of a 7-year old thinks to say things like that?

"You've got to feed a cold"

2009-02-02T10:38:00.000-08:00

The other night I had a miserable cold and no medicine in the house that I could take. When Bill got home from work, he turned right back around to run to the store to get me some "pregnancy-approved" medicine. He came back with the medicine, but did you know that
1) a family-sized box of Apple Jacks
2) a case of Diet Coke
3) a pack of Peanut M&M's
4) and a pint of Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream
all help to cure the common cold too. Bill just thinks that everyone needs surprises when they are not feeling good.
I knew I married him for more than his money:)

Random comments from Trey

2009-02-02T10:32:00.000-08:00

Trey:Mom, aren't you excited that we finally get to have another baby?

Me:Yeah, I'm excited. Are you excited?

Trey:Yeah.

Me:Why are you excited?

Trey:Cuz, I have been waiting for 7 years, and that is like, longer than most people go to prison.

Me:?????

2009-01-27T16:14:00.000-08:00

Sorry about yesterday's post. It sounds like I am totally whining. Really, I think I am still in shock that we are really having a baby. It's like an out-of-body experience.
Actually, I am so excited. And that doesn't even sound good enough to describe how I feel. I am amazed that all of this is actually happening, and it is all that Bill and I seem to be able to talk about.
So instead of telling you all the things that scare me, I will tell you all the things that I am looking forward to.

1.His first cry. That by itself will let me know that he is OK and that everything (and I mean everything) has been worth it.

2.Seeing Bill hold him for the first time.

3.Seeing Trey hold him for the first time.

4.Feeding him, even in the middle of the night. I loved this part with Trey too. Not necessarily the feeding part, but that they are so happy to have you rescue them.

5.Introducing him to his family (grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends)

6.Snuggling.

7.Seeing what he will look like. I wouldn't mind if you could actually tell he is my kid. The only part of me that Trey has is the nose, the rest is all Bill. I think Trey turned out pretty darn cute though, so maybe we'll stick with what works.

8.Buying new furniture and clothes. We gave everything we had away (that's probably why we are finally able to have another one.)

9.Boring everyone I know with tons of pictures and new memories.

10.Having that nagging heartache go away, and just be crazy happy!

There, that is much better. Just laugh at what I wrote yesterday, that's what I meant it for anyway (well, most of it--I was dead serious about the toe thing).

Emotional Roller Coaster

2009-01-26T11:36:00.000-08:00

We had a baby appointment this morning, and it always makes me feel so relieved when we get to hear the heartbeat. My eyes well up every time. In between appts. I stress myself out thinking of all the sad stories there are and all the possible things that can go wrong. It amazes me that so many babies make it to their families at all.
Anyway, things are looking awesome, and everything is going along like it should. We both get really excited and look at each other and think--This is really happening. Then I think to myself--Yikes! This is really happening!
Along with all the happiness and excitement I have felt with being able to have another baby, there are also things that scare me to death. Some of them may sound silly and petty, but I still worry about them.

1.Are we really ready? We have been wanting this for 7 years, but we are so out of practice I worry that I will resent the change to our lives.

2.Will Trey be OK? He is very excited now, I hope he stays that way when the reality of how much attention a baby needs truly sets in.

3.That I will want another one, and the agony of the past 7 years will start all over again.

4.That I will want another one, and the doctor will tell me that I can't.

5.Getting our baby boy here at all. I still have this little voice in the back of my head telling me not to get too excited until I can actually see him.

6.The time and effort it will take to get back in shape. I know I can do it, but I also know I will be impatient about it. Two of you (Jane and Emily; and Kendra, if you read this) have had babies in the last two years, and look awesome, please share your secrets!

7.My boobs. When will these puppies ever stop growing?! I went to a lot of effort and expense to make sure that I was eternally perky, and I am not looking forward to the "orange in a tube sock" look. Picture it--it is not pleasant!

8.Juggling baby and preschool. This one will be the least of my worries. Hopefully my sister will be here to help, and I have great friends that I could call too.

9.Having ugly toes when I go to the hospital. Bill won't paint them, and I won't abuse our friendship and ask any of you to do it. Just let me know where I can get a pedicure and you are all invited.

10.The C-section. Some people love it, some people hate it. I guess I won't know till it's over.

11.That some of you may be offended by fear #7 and think I am very vain. Just think of it as the comic relief.

These are some of the things that go through my mind and keep me up at night. But then, I feel my little man kick and nothing else matters. And I know that the first time he cries and I can see him, I won't care about anything else and all these things will be silly. No matter how hard it might be, I have got a husband who loves me and makes me laugh, and Trey does the same, so how can our new edition be any different?

Early Christmas Present

2008-12-25T20:14:00.000-08:00

We had our ultrasound on Tuesday, and have been too busy since to blog about it....But Trey is having a BROTHER! As soon as the lady told us it was a boy it just felt perfect, and Trey very sweetly looked up at at Bill and said, "Dad, what are you going to do with 2 buddies?" We will just have to be insanely happy I guess.

Trey and Libby

2008-12-22T12:40:00.000-08:00

I have to put these pictures on of Trey with his baby cousin Libby. He is practicing being a big brother. He is very excited to go with me to the doctor tomorrow to find out if he is having a brother or a sister.

My brothers and sister

2008-12-22T12:29:00.000-08:00

My sister Bristy and her husband Brad.

My brother Brett and his wife Lori.

My brother Marshall and his wife Brittany, with their baby Libby.

My brother Chad and his wife Tawna(sorry it's blurry).

This is Brett again. Don't be offended, this is a gesture of love in our family.

2008-12-22T12:23:00.001-08:00

We also had an extra visitor at the Christmas Party this year. Santa Claus came to Town! The whole family got to sit on his lap.

My nephew, Drexton, wasn't quite sure what to think.

Hooper Family Christmas Party

2008-12-22T12:03:00.000-08:00

My mom and dad throw the family a Christmas Party every year. It is always fun. We are a family that loves to play and laugh together.

Every year, my mom has an ornament for all the kids to make. This year it was a miniature Nativity.

Here is a shot of some of Trey's cousins.

This is Drexton.

That is Jax in the Red Sox hat,

then Logan, Addie and Jake.

And the newest addition is Libby.

Other things we do that I didn't get pictures of: the kids all make gingerbread cookies and decorate them, we eat till we're stuffed, and play our annual game of Pictionary (boys against girls, there is a lot of laughing and name calling involved, but it is so fun, and it is the only time I ever get Bill to play any type of board game).

Trey's Christmas Concert

2008-12-22T11:54:00.000-08:00

As you can see, Trey is thrilled to be here. His class sang "I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas". It was hard to hear, but he moved his mouth the whole time so I'm sure it was awesome. He has been practicing his stage skills by playing Rock Band.

Grandma and Grandpa Hooper were able to come watch him sing too.

I have been converted

2008-12-09T08:00:00.001-08:00

This is especially for my friend Jane. She will truly appreciate it.
As most of you know, I am a die-hard Diet Dr. Pepper drinker. Well since being pregnant I cannot stand the taste of it, and water gets very boring (I don't care how good it is for you!)
Anyway, I was really wanting a pop one day so Bill brought me home a Sonic Route 44 Diet Coke with Lime. I heard angels singing, and the heavens opened. I will gladly admit that I am now a Diet Coke convert and I feel no shame.

Christmas Kickoff Party

2008-12-05T10:09:00.000-08:00

It has become our tradition to have as much of Bill's family as possible over for dinner the day after Thanksgiving. We always have the famous "Shipley Taco Salad", which for my fellow Utahns is really meat nachos. Most of the older boys (Bill and his brothers, and Michael-a nephew) compete to see who can make their salad the hottest with peppers and salsa and this really mean Thai seasoning that could melt your esophagus if you aren't careful. So it has also become tradition to serve Tums as a side dish. After dinner we finish up the leftover pies from the day before and then cram everyone into the basement to watch a Christmas movie. It is always a lot of fun. It is great to start our Christmas season with the people we love best. This year we missed Mom and Dad Shipley very much and had our minds on them a lot. Grant's family, and Kathy's family weren't there either because they all live back East, but they are always there in spirit when we start sharing funny stories of when they were all growing up. I am glad to have been able to marry into a family that was as close as mine was growing up.

Thanksgiving Rocks

2008-12-04T08:08:00.001-08:00

After dinner we went to my mom's house for pie. Little did we now what awaited us. My brother had set up a TV and RockBand in my parents garage. It was so much fun!

Trey really got into singing. He had a death grip on the microphone, I'm surprised we didn't have to pry his fingers off of it. Bill is an awesome drummer, and I was laughing to hard to be good at anything.

Thanksgiving

2008-12-04T07:57:00.000-08:00

We started out our Thanksgiving week with a weekend in Salt Lake to see Coldplay in concert. It was such a good show. If you are a fan and they come here again, you should go. We would probably go again. The lead singer is a spaz, but it made it fun to watch.

We had dinner at Bill's sister's house this year. She outdid herself on the food. All I have to say is sweet potato pie, with real sweet potatoes, YUM! Bill's brother and his family came up from Arizona too so the cousins all loved being together again. (Yes, that is my kid chewing with his mouth open.)

1 Day to Coldplay

2008-11-21T11:20:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is the Coldplay concert! I am so excited. It is going to be even more fun because we decided to stay the night. We were a little scared that would be driving home at the same time as all the teary-eyed Coug fans. Go Utes!! (sorry Jane, and Cheryl, and Emily, and ...)

Because of You

2008-11-19T07:38:00.000-08:00

I saw this on a friend's blog, and thought it would be fun to try.
Here are the Rules-
1. Put Your iTunes, Windows Media Player, MP3 Player, or whatever on Shuffle.
2. For each question, press the next button to get your answer.
3. You must write down the name of the song no matter how silly it sounds!
4. Put any comments in brackets after the song name.

If someone says, “Is this okay?” You say? "Somebody Stand By Me", Faith Hill
How would you describe yourself? "Wrong Turn", Jack Johnson
What do you like in a guy/girl? "Feels Like Tonight", Daughtry
How do you feel today? "I Can't Stop Loving You", Keith Urban
What is your life’s purpose? "She's a Butterfly", Martina McBride
What is your motto? "Make Me Believe", Martin McBride
What do your friends think of you? "Let Her Cry", Hootie and the Blowfish (I am an emotional pregnant girl at the moment)
What do you think of your parents? "I'm Goin' Home", Hootie and the Blowfish
What do you think about very often? "Must Get Out", Maroon 5
What is 2 + 2? "Cold Day in July", Dixie Chicks
What do you think of your best friend? "Clocks", Coldplay
Why do you like person you love? "Together We Rise", Armin Van Buren (So True)
What is your life story? "Good Things Happen", Dierks Bentley (This is true, I live a very blessed life)
What do you want to be when you grow up? "Awakening", Switchfoot
What will they play at your funeral? "My Baby Loves Me", Martina
What is your hobby/interest? "Time and Time Again", Counting Crows
What is your biggest fear? "Losing Keys", Jack Johnson (This must be a subconcious fear)
What is your biggest secret? "Circles", Switchfoot (It is such a big secret I don't even know what it is)
What do you think of your friends? "I Love You", Martina McBride
What will you post this as? "Because of You", Kelly Clarkson

Apparently, I have a thing for Martina McBride. She is the one I sing the best to when I am alone in my car :)

2008-11-17T10:05:00.000-08:00

Since I am pregnant, Bill doesn't let me do a lot of the chores (dang). But my boys sure are good at picking up the slack.

Saturday they raked up all the leaves in our yard. Trey had a great time using the leaf blower. What a good helper!

Pumkin Carving

2008-11-17T09:56:00.000-08:00

As you can see, we take pumpkin carving very seriously at our house. I have two very OCD boys, who want everything to look perfect. Trey had an especially good time with the little pumpkin saw. He didn't care that he gave his mom an anxiety attack thinking he was going to saw a finger off. It's all a part of the experienc right? Anyway, the pumpkins turned out great and Trey was excited to light them up on Halloween night.

Trey was Ben 10 for Halloween, and for some reason I didn't get a picture of him, but trust me, he was cute.
He and Bill traveled the neighborhood, while I stayed home to answer the door. It was fun to see all the neighbor kids. Especially my preschool kids.

Pumpkin Patch

2008-11-17T09:47:00.000-08:00

Trey is very proud of his pumpkins.

Every year we go to the Red Barn, and take the Hay ride out to the pumpkin patch. And every year the pumpkins that Trey picks out seem to get bigger and bigger. Bill ends up trying to carry them all because they are too heavy for the rest of us.

Pirate Day

2008-11-17T09:43:00.001-08:00

Rock Star Day

2008-11-17T09:42:00.000-08:00

Nerd Day

2008-11-17T09:37:00.000-08:00

These were all pictures from Spirit week at Trey's school.

Slow Learner

2008-11-17T09:22:00.000-08:00

I finally learned how to download pictures from our camera onto the computer. For some reason I always thougtht this was hard so I always waited for Bill to do it for me. That is why I haven't posted any pictures for a while. Here are some pictures to make up for lost time.

Going Private

2008-11-14T16:42:00.000-08:00

We are going private with our blog. Please, please post your e-mail so I can set you up to be invited to our blog.

One word quiz

2008-11-13T07:38:00.000-08:00

You can only type ONE Word! Not as easy as you might think.Change the answers to suit you and pass it on.It's really hard to only use one word answers.

1. Where is your cell phone? purse
2. Where is your significant other? work
3. Your hair? short
4. Your mother? hardworking
5. Your father? original
6. Your favorite thing? family
7.Your dream last night?wierd
8. Your favorite drink? Diet Dr. Pepper
9. Your dream/goal? mom
10. The room you're in? laundry
11. Your hobby? preschool
12. Your fear? disappointment
13. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Home
14. Where were you last night? home
15. What you're not? sad
16. Muffins? buttery
17. One of your wish list items? dishwasher
18. Where you grew up? Payson
19. The last thing you did? clean
20. What are you wearing? slippers
21. Your TV? overused
22. Your pets? dog
23. Your computer? busy
24. Your life? perfect
25. Your mood? blessed
26. Missing someone? Grandma
27. Your car? Sequoia
28. Something you're not wearing? perfume
29. Favorite store? DP
30. Your summer? wet
31. Like someone? forever
32. Your favorite color? yellow
33. When is the last time you laughed? breakfast
34. Who will retake this? anyone

Tagged by Bristy

2008-10-28T07:54:00.000-07:00

8 TV shows I like to watch

1. Dr. 90210 (funny!!!)
2. What Not to Wear
3. The Office
4. Football
5. Baseball in October
6. Basketball
7. Nascar (don't laugh)
8. Project Runway

8 Things that happened yesterday

1. Carpool
2. Grocery Shopping
3. Nap
4. Pregnant Pilates (I used to have balance, and I used to have a core)
5. Trey's flag football game
6. Pumpkin gutting
7. Pumpkin carving
8. Bedtime
Obviously, we lead an exciting life

8 Favorite places to eat
1. Ruby River
2. Carraba's
3. Famous Dave's
4. Sakura
5. Bajio
6. Red Robin
7. Subway
8. Papa John's

8 Things I am looking forward too
1. BABY
2. BABY
3. BABY
4. Finding out what the baby is
5. The Holidays
7. Coldplay concert in November
8. Las Vegas Trip in March

8 Things on my wish list
1. BABY
2. BABY
3. BABY
4. Trey to keep growing up to be a good and funny person
5. Everyone I love to be happy
6. No more sad stories on the news
7. Bill's parents lived out here, or that we could visit them more often
8. Did I mention BABY

8 people I tag
1. Jill
2. Emily B.
3. Emily W
4. Jane
5. Rachael
6. Suzy
7. Jenn C.
8. Cheryl M.

Music to our ears...

2008-10-13T14:59:00.000-07:00

Today, Bill and I heard a sound that we never thought we would hear again. OUR BABY'S HEART! It is overwhelming to talk about, but we are so excited and want everyone to know it. Today is actually the second time we have been to the doctor and had an ultrasound, but I am further along now and feel better about letting everyone know.

The first ultrasound was about 2 weeks ago, and it is one of those memories that will be burned into my brain forever. It is too special to me to just casually throw out here for any random stranger to read, but those of you that are our friends and family know it is a miracle and there have been many happy tears shed. And Trey was speechless when we told him that he finally gets a turn to be a big brother. The whole experience has been unbelievable so far and it is only going to get better.

I have a very hard time asking for help, so a huge THANK YOU to all of you who have shown excitement for us and for your prayers. It has definitely been noticed :)

OK, OK

2008-10-07T11:01:00.000-07:00

I have officially been tagged for the first time. Thanks alot Emily!
The Rules:
Link the person who tagged you
Tell about 6 quirks of yours
Tag 6 fellow bloggers to do the same
Leave a comment to let them know

MY QUIRKS

1. I am a compulsive reader. I have to have a new book in my house that I have not read at all times. Every time I go to the store, I buy a book. I read while I am at the gym, I read while I am watching TV, I read while I am cooking dinner, I read because I hate to scrapbook!

2. I hate to scrapbook. I love taking pictures, and I love to look at pictures, but I would gladly rip off my fingernails before sitting down to make a scrapbook page. (I haven't done it since Trey was 2).

3. Speaking of fingernails. I cannot stand to have my fingernails painted. I think it looks good, but I feel like my fingers are suffocating.

4. Ditto the suffocating of my hands with lotion on them. No hand lotion please.

5. I have a terrible habit of interrupting people when I talk. I get very excited and want to put in my two cents immediately. I know I do it, and I hate it. I am sorry to all of you who I have done this to.

6. Here is the biggest confession of all. I love the movie Titanic. I know, I know that makes me cheesy and girly. It's not because of Leonardo DiCaprio (he's much better now, than he was then), I have just always been a sucker for a love story.

I don't know 6 people to tag who haven't done it already. So if I tag you and you've already done it, just don't do it I guess. Who makes these rules anyway?
I tag, Bristy, Emily W., Suzy, Jill, and I 'll have to make two new friends to add on :)

What's a Hat Trick?

2008-09-25T07:36:00.000-07:00

Trey is playing city league soccer and is on a team at his school too. The other night he played the best I have ever seen him play. He was the goalie for the first half, and had many saves, the other team didn't score on him. He even dove a couple of times and made it look really cool.

The second half he was a forward. My mom and dad were there to watch him, and my dad buys the grandkids a hamburger if they score. Well, Trey scored early in the second half, and my dad yells out "Do you want fries with your burger?!" Apparently Trey thought that would be great because he was playing like a boy possessed. The kid was everywhere! He scored again, and grandpa says, "if you want a drink too, you gotta go for the Hat Trick." Trey ran off like a crazy man. He ran out of time to score a third time, but he was pretty pumped that he scored his team's only goals.

P.S. A Hat Trick is scoring 3 goals in one game (Trey didn't know what it meant either :))

Rock Canyon Ride

2008-09-25T07:17:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, Bill, Trey, my dad, Trey's cousin Logan, and a few other people went on a 4-wheeler ride. They started up Hobble Creek canyon and ended up overlooking Rock Canyon near the Squaw Peak area. The picture Bill took of the valley are awesome!

Biker Grandparents

2008-09-21T17:53:00.000-07:00

My parents just got a new motorcycle this spring, and it just wouldn't be right if they weren't dressed to fit the part. Did you know there is even a "biker wave"? Anyway Grandpa took Trey on a ride around the neighborhood the other day, and Trey loved it.

How Lucky am I?

2008-09-21T17:49:00.000-07:00

I have got two of the best boys on earth. Our dishwasher is broken, and they will still volunteer to do the dishes for me. Thank goodness Trey still thinks it is fun.

She's Here!

2008-09-21T17:44:00.000-07:00

Libby Rose Hooper was born Sunday, September 14, 2008. She is the only girl born on that side of the family in the past 8 years. We are so excited that she is here. Trey loved holding her for the first time and did not want to give her up.

Afro Noodles!?!

2008-09-05T09:31:00.000-07:00

Last night we were sitting down to dinner. I had made Chicken Alfredo. Trey immediately pipes up that he only likes the noodles and plain chicken. Bill tells him that he will like the sauce, and please just try it. Trey refuses to even try, and goes on to inform us that there is no way he will ever like "AFRO" sauce on his spagqhetti. Needless to say, after the tears of laughter were wiped away, he got to eat a heaping plateful of plain noodles, and ate every bit of it.

First Day of 2nd Grade

2008-09-01T12:48:00.000-07:00

It breaks my heart a little to see Trey getting so big, but it is fun at the same time. Here is my handsome man going to 2nd grade for the first time.

2008-09-01T12:42:00.000-07:00

If you know us well, you know that we love being out on the water every chance we get. We are all very amateur wakeboarders, even Trey. We all have huge dreams of the tricks we will probably never learn how to do, but hey, it's fun trying.

2008-09-01T12:35:00.000-07:00