Cake and Cool

Before we leave for the zoo...

E: "Mommy, do you think I'm cool?"
Mommy taken by surprise. A 4 year old just asked me what?!
Me: "Emmett, I think you're wonderful. I think you're happy, silly, cool and amazing! I love you so much."
E: "Thanks, mom."

On our walk up to the zoo...
Me: "Emmett, we don't pick our boogers. That is icky."
E: "I think they taste good."
Me: "What do they taste like?"
E: "Cake".

Lake Talapus Hike

We had so much fun on Rattlesnake Ridge that we were hungry for more. This time we went farther east along I-90 to Lake Talapus. Emmett took this photo of Anya and I while Justin was parking the car. I thought it was a good shot for a little guy...Anya's face makes me laugh and smile from ear to ear...



This hike was great for the kids as there are numerous bridges and half the time your hiking along a beautiful mountain stream. Emmett would occasionally say to me, "this is peaceful, mommy." Jackpot.

More Family Fun in Montana

In the summer, we love picnicking and swimming at Lake Como just south of Hamilton. The boys had lots of fun on their rafts...




Dominic and Emmett play so nicely together and found a box of hats! There are so many hats and too many to post...I'm inspired to get the kids a hat box!


Emmett got to meet his Great Grandpa's brother, Bill, and his wonderful wife, Ann. We had so much fun catching up and listening to Riemer Family stories that date back all the way to Russia.


Two boys with lots of energy and Emmett giving his 'cuz a BIG squeeze!


Emmett's first sparklers!


Something about boys and trucks...

Mustache Series: The Grandpa

In 2010, I would have to say that Emmett's favorite word (besides potty talk that we don't approve of) is "mustache". I think it started back in spring time when Aunt Julie came from St. Louis and Emmett constantly asked her if Uncle Andy has a mustache (never has, probably never will)?

Not only would he say "mustache", but every time he said it he had to put each finger above his upper lip forming a beloved 'stache. He said the word so much that our tenant, sitter and friend, Elise, searched high and low throughout town to find our boy A Mustache for Everday of the Week. Elise, you know him too well.

Who knows, maybe Uncle Andy will surprise us one day? Emmett would be thrilled.

And folks, he summits his first mountain (well ridge, but who cares?)

Emmett hiked a total of 3.5 hours all on his own two feet to get to the top of Rattlesnake Ridge. There was resistance and the lollipop incentive was quite effective. The ascent was actually pretty easy (thank you tootsie pop!) and the views up top were epic. Truly a five star day. It was the descent we had a few break downs and all was fine as we took it very slow. He shed a few tears and said his feet were tired, but he pulled through. This was a glorious day for the 4 of us! He was so proud of himself and we are, too!