The Ross Family

D-Dawg is 3!

2011-02-02T11:14:00.007-07:00

(Birthday card and money from great grandma and grandpa Haycock)

I have never seen a kid more excited for their birthday! For about 3 weeks he would ask for his birthday, we would say it wasn't time yet and he would yell "HEY! Why you take my birthday away?!" He knew it was something big, and something to be excited for, but didn't quite understand :)

About 2 weeks before his birthday Dawson saw Spiderman for the first time with Dave. I wasn't home at the time, but when I got home that night, all I heard/hear about from that time forward is Spiderman, and the green goblin. And like I've said before, Dawson does NOT take his obsessions lightly.

Landon likes to stay up late the night before Dawson's birthday to help decorate. This is a fun tradition my kids love. They love waking up to see their surprise decorations. This years theme for Dawson, Spiderman!

He was super excited. He had a goofy grin on his face all day. :)

Landon picked out a Spiderman and Green Goblin combo pack for Dawson.

Ryan (Dave's brother) and his wife, Brooke, sent Dawson this book in the mail. He was excited to get his own package and super excited that there was a skull on the back!

Dawson's choice of activity for his big day was going to McDonalds and eating ticken tuggets, and play at the play station. Which, but the way... I'll never understand his fascination with play places, he gets to the top screams out of terror and who has to go rescue him? Yours truly. Nasty.

Next up on his magical day of fun was to go bowling at Boondocks. His favorite place in the world. Bowling is also a major love in Dawson's life. The Sayama's came with us. It was fun.. but super crowded. Don't ever go on a Saturday!

He carried this ball with him, even if it wasn't his turn. He didn't want anyone to use it. Dawson doesn't share.

Later that night we had my side of the family over for his Spiderman party. He was so excited! He was literally bouncing off the walls.

The one item Dawson wanted more than anything was a talking Spiderman. However, not just anyone could get it for him. It had to be Gma and Pa. My mom has a tradition of taking the kids out to lunch, and then the toy store to get a gift of their choice. Well, Dawson didn't understand this. He wanted to know why my mom didn't bring his talking Spiderman to his party. He wouldn't let it go. So.. what would any nice grandpa do? That's right, Dawson left his party with grandpa to get his coveted Spiderman. This has since been his favorite thing. My mom did still take Dawson out for lunch and let him pick another small gift. He picked birthday candles. Weirdo!

Sunday, the actual day of his birthday we went to church, where they sang Happy Birthday to him in nursery, which he loved. We then went to Dave's parents house for another party, a Bowling party! My battery died, so I wasn't able to get too many pictures. :(

Dawson at age 3:

Still loves sports of any kind.

Has a great love of bowling and Spiderman.

Loves his Aunt Lori (he loves all of his aunts, but seriously whenever he sees Lori, he just hugs her and snuggles up to her and tell her how much he loves her.) He will tell me often that he is my baby, and Lori's. Which is fine, because some days I would like to give him to her :)

He has turned into a movie buff. He loves to watch movies and act out certain scenes. Sometimes you will be looking at him and wonder what the heck he is doing, then soon realize that he is acting . So cute.

He loves the number 4.

His favorite food is Macaroni and Cheese, chocolate milk and candy canes.

Favorite song is I Love to See the Temple.

He loves to do anything Landon is doing.

He still loves his "star blankie" and sleeps with it every night.

Loves Lagoon and has no fear of any ride.

Loves going to sporting events with his dad.

Loves going to Walmart and wants to go there every day.

He is a very active little boy, and seriously is only calm when he is sleeping. He keeps us all on our toes!

We love you Dawson, you are such a fun person and we are thankful every day that you are a part of our family!

The Christmas Post

2011-02-02T09:51:00.009-07:00

Christmas this year was spectacular! Both my kids got into the spirit of not only the fun, gift giving part of it, but the Spiritual part as well. The whole month of December was just fantastic! Having young kids at Christmas is where it's at!

Santa sent both boys a personalized Christmas greeting email. I thought this was such a cute idea. But, you know, after the 50th time of watching it, I kind of got mad at Santa for sending it. Not really, but if you know Dawson, he gets a little obsessive.

Don't look too close, or you might be jealous of the most beautiful gingerbread house ever made.

Christmas Eve at Grandma and Pa Bruderer's

This is our makeshift Nativity that we did. My kids loved this. Best part? The fist fight Landon and Dawson got into in the middle of it. Glad I got that on camera. Having boys is delightful. :)

Grandma and Grandpa Bruderer got all of the kids matching jammies and pillow pets for Christmas. Landon has been wanting one for about a year now. He was ecstatic! Dawson looks like he is on drugs, which could very likely be the case, since he was sick over Christmas.

Christmas Morning

Landon really wanted a Nintendo DSI and a Science library.

Dawson was a little obsessed with candy canes the whole month of December. He would have been happy if this is all he got!

Dawson really wanted Stinky the garbage truck for Christmas, Dave was adamant that he would not buy this. Good thing Santa came through for the kid.

This stomper track Santa got at the state fair. Dawson played with this for two hours straight. Then broke one of the cars. Still had one car, for a day. Until he broke that one, too. There is a reason Dave's dad calls him "Conan the Barbarian." We still love him though. :)

Dave's dad always knows what my kids will love. If it's related to hunting, or has any sort of weapon, their excited. Landon loves this gift. If your wondering what in the world Dave's dad is wearing, I will tell you. .. I have no idea. It has kitties and fruit on it. Wow.

Annual Christmas bread. Delish!

Let's PLay Catch Up!

2010-11-30T10:20:00.001-07:00

Below is my attempt at getting caught up! There are several new posts. :)

Big Boy Bed!

2010-11-30T10:12:00.004-07:00

Dawson has done a fabulous job of transitioning to his big boy bed! What a difference from Landon! (who got out at least 50 times a night) He still never gets out of his bed. Even when he wakes up, he just yells for us to come get him. which is great, because I think it's kinda freaky when they get out on their own and stare at you while you are sleeping. :)

We decided to keep the boys separate for now. We have no need for an extra room right now. We did however get Dawson a sports themed bed set (same as Landon) so it would be easy to put them together when we do want to.

Picture Post

2010-11-30T09:50:00.006-07:00

Lots of random pictures!

Landon and Dawson had a sticker chart. Once they earned 10 stickers for being "happy, loving brothers" they got to pick an activity of their choice. This worked like a charm. They chose boondocks. What a great time we had! Bowling was Dawson's favorite, and Laser Tag was Landon's.

Be glad they were here, and not there!

Studying a hunting magazine. Serious stuff.

I was in charge of the combined youth activity this month. We played "Minute to Win it." Dave was our host. I think it turned out great!

Dave's sis had her baby. Landry Thomas Muir. What a doll!

Landon is doing so well in school. We just had his parent teacher conferences. His teacher told us he has the nicest handwriting of any kindergarten boy she has seen.

Thanksgiving

2010-11-30T09:31:00.005-07:00

This year we went with Dave's family for Thanksgiving. His brother's family hosted. It did not disappoint. The food was delish, and the kids had a BLAST!

They had these cute vests and headbands for the kids to make while waiting for dinner. Dawson was too busy playing 'Better Batter Baseball' downstairs to join in this photo. Landon still has his vest and band safely hidden in his room, and wears it when he wants to antagonize Dawson (who destroyed his soon after making it).

The table was beautifully set. Landon, Dawson and I had a fun time making those turkeys. I was however wishing I had waited until Dawson's nap to make them. Anyone ever had to clean up feathers that your son decided to cut up and spread around the house? It was so fun and took longer than actually making the dang birds.

Also, notice the rocks? My sis in law had washed these and put them in a bowl and had everyone write things they were thankful for and put them as a centerpiece for the table. Dawson was thankful for skeletons. Landon for pheasants and hunting. Looks like we have some work to do.

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These aren't really Thanksgiving related, but forgot to add them to my last post, so here they are. :)

Fall Fun and Halloween

2010-11-30T08:52:00.009-07:00

Utah State Fair!

I happen to LOVE going to the fair every year. Dave doesn't, but is happy to oblige. Plus, the boys always have a blast.

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Fall Colors Drive

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Pumpkin Patch!

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Pumpkin Carving.

Dawson drew his own pumpkin face, and was quite proud.

Landon wanted his pumpkin to be throwing up. Gross, right?

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Landon's Halloween Kindergarten Program

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HALLOWEEN!

Ever since Halloween, Dawson has been OBSESSED with Skeletons. I don't know what it is about this boy and his obsessions, but I would gladly take back his baseball obsession if it meant I could do without these all around the house in random places:

Baseball and Popcorn

2010-09-11T22:14:00.011-06:00

Dave has taken the boys to Raptors games several times this summer. To say the boys love this would be an understatement! Daddy spoils them, makes sure they always each get a foul ball, and a treat!

This is with the league MVP, Jake Lemmerman. Dawson was a little star struck, seeing an actual baseball player that close.

One time, they went really early so they could get the players to sign their baseballs. Landon got bored with this quick. After one of the players signed Dawson's ball, he turned to Landon and asked if he could sign his ball. Landon said "No." They guy acted hurt and said "I can't believe you wont let me sign your ball!" Landon replied "Yeah, I already have enough signatures."

This last time they went, they had all their hats on clearance (since it was the last game of the season) Dave let the boys each get one.

I think Dawson liked his. What do you think?

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We ordered Dawson a "big boy" bed from RC Willey last week. It wont be here for a few weeks, but if you spent a certain amount of money you could get this popcorn machine and the movie Avatar for 10.00. It's nice how easy it is to please children.

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Have I mentioned that Dawson likes Baseball (sarcasm)?! All sports really, but baseball is his sport of choice lately. For the first time in my life, I am excited for Football season, in hopes that I can see a little LESS baseball! :)

I had to get a picture of him in these pajamas. These are literally Dawson's pride and joy. He wants to wear them 24/7. I have to hide them as soon as they leave his body. Dave and I fight over who has to be the one to remove them in the morning. It's not pretty. I wish I had more in bigger sizes, it's sad that they are already getting too small.

Also, notice the ball in his hand? This is called his "Foul Ball" it's from the Raptors game, and it does NOT leave his side. It's awesome when you are at Walmart and he drops it, and it rolls under the isle and you have to get on your hands and knees to fetch it, with him screaming because he dropped the blasted thing.

Who can guess what's better than one foul ball? That's right, 4 of them!

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We went on the Frontrunner to Gateway and let the kids go to Build a Bear.

Among walking into Build a Bear, I immediately spotted these very interesting looking baseball head things. And thought to myself "oh, great, here we go."

Sure enough....

Oh well, if they're happy, I'm happy!

Landon Starts Kindergarten!

2010-09-01T12:17:00.002-06:00

He's officially in school, and couldn't be happier! I love this little guy so much, it's hard to send him away every day. Not only for me, but for Dawson too. Every day we go to pick him up, Dawson runs to him and gives him the biggest hug ever! I think this makes Landon happy.

In anticipation for his big day we got the special backpack he wanted, and had to be sure to get new gel, so his hair would spike just right. He is so concerned about his appearance, it cracks me up!

We love you, Landon, and know you will do great things this year!

Camping Trip

2010-09-01T10:52:00.009-06:00

My sister in law has family who owns property near Lava Hot Springs. W were lucky enough to camp at this awesome site, with lots of room, covered pavilion and lots of picnic tables. We had a blast, which is saying a lot for someone (me) who HATES camping!

Dawson's favorite part of camping was eating, and trying to eat everyone's food. When I took this picture, he realized he was busted!

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Dave spent lots of time at this cute pond fishing with the boys. Landon loves fishing, it's one of his passions in life.

While fishing we stumbled upon this fun rope swing. Dave even tried it, but got nervous when he could literally hear the rope breaking... Didn't stop the rest of us!

Dave

Joseph (my bro)

Cecily (niece)

Jaycee (niece)

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The kids taking a whack at the Uncle Robert Pinata! I swear my brother will climb anything!

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Landon had tons and tons of fun playing with all his cousins. They were constantly inventing games and creating masterpieces. This rock (or as Landon calls it, an ancient dinosaur skull) was so heavy! They had to collect it for their "Paleontology Museum."

The museum. He wanted to charge people to walk through it, but we nixed that idea pretty quick!

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Dawson spent most of his time harrassing my mom and my sisters puppies. Poor dogs.

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Moose we found on one of our nature drives.

My family is crazy, and I love it most the time. Except when I try to get a nice picture and I have not one, but three brothers in law try to ruin it. So many ruined pictures because of them!

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While we were in town at Lava shopping, my dad found some fake gold bubblegum. He thought it would be funny to bury it and have the kids find it. Once they started finding it, they were so excited!!! Landon was even throwing out all the things he was going to buy. To say he was ticked off when he found out it was fake is an understatement.

Thanks, Kari for a fun time! We're excited for next year!

Landon Goes Mutton Bustin!

2010-08-30T15:26:00.004-06:00

Every year we like to hit up the Rodeo. Landon has been anticipating the day when he would be old enough to go Mutton Bustin. This year was the year! Unfortunately, our camera broke right before this special event. I wasn't able to get pictures of him on the actual Sheep :( I did get it recorded though. Phew, if I was tech savvy, I would upload the footage, but I'm not, so I wont.

I think the temp was well into the high 90's. Landon did not appreciate that they made him wear long sleeves and pants.

After the race they had a special ceremony where they gave each kid a special bandana and hat. Landon had to wear both of his at the same time.

Yellowstone Vacation

2010-08-30T14:53:00.006-06:00

We had such a fun trip to Yellowstone in June. We went with Dave's parents, his Brother, Jeff and his family, and his brother, Ryan, and his wife. This year we decided that rather than stay in West Yellowstone, we would stay in Gardiner Montana. Staying here gets you further back into the park and closer to all the cool wildlife. Dave and I decided we will always stay in Gardiner! It's not the most picturesque town there ever was, but super convenient!

If Dave had his way, we would sit in the car and drive all over Yellowstone for hours on end and see just how many Bears, Moose, etc. we could find. I was fine with it in years past, but this time with TWO kids, we weren't gonna let that fly. We stopped at every spot we could and let the kids get out and explore. They had a ball! We went on lots of hikes and saw lot's of really neat things.

The above picture was of a hike we went on, the waterfall is kind of hard to see in the picture. If you remember from this post I realized I have an intense fear of heights/cliffs. When we got to this waterfall, it was a really steep drop off. I was so scared for my kids' lives that I almost couldn't breathe. I made Dave hold Landon and Dave's dad held on tight to Dawson.

The house we stayed at was the really pretty Victorian that was built in the early 1900's. The house was beautiful! The kids loved having grandma so close all the time.

There was plenty of wildlife to see! We saw more bears than we could count.

Landon's first bear sighting of the trip! He was just a little excited.

Hard to see, but there is a bear behind us. We had to hurry and snap this picture before one of the rangers saw that we had found a bear and make us get in our cars. Landon is a little nervous to be so close. :)

Morning Surprise!

2010-07-05T10:48:00.002-06:00

Landon went outside to play this morning and came running inside screaming "There is a raccoon in our cherry tree!!" Dave was doubtful but went out to check anyway. Sure enough, raccoon!

After Dave and Landon came running inside I snapped this (poor quality) photo with my camera. It tried to come inside too!

Nightime Surprise!

2010-06-18T22:41:00.005-06:00

You can imagine how surprised (and a little freaked out) I was when I walked into Landon's room to check on him and found this: (and yes, he is asleep!)

Recent Happenings

2010-05-18T10:39:00.007-06:00

Most exciting news is... We got our basement finished!!! We had lots of family help, which we appreciate tons!

So, I had an unexpected, yet delightful "accident" happen in the process of finishing our basement. See this deer head in the family room? Well, this is the last time you will see it there! While Dave was carrying in some drywall he accidentally smacked into the deer head making a huge hole in the wall and knocking it unstable. Aw, shucks, so sad! It has since found a new home in the garage.

Hardest part for me was trying to cram all our junk into one small storage space, which still looks a MESS! I need some organization tips, if you have any.. send them my way!

My dad and brothers in law did so much to help us out! It's nice having family members with skill! Dawson was always downstairs helping "gumpa."

FINISHED PRODUCT!!!

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This is a favorite for the boys! Pizza parties downstairs while watching the Jazz game/movies!
Landon really got into watching the Jazz games this season. It was convenient for him to quickly become a Lakers fan when they were winning though.

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We've been lucky to have my brother's baby, Eliza on Tuesdays. She is the worlds best baby, I kid you not. She never cries and is just content to be wherever you put her. Both my boys are smitten with her! Landon, as you can see is in love. I've never seen him take to a baby like this before. (Please refrain from the "You need another one now" comments. )

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My Uncle Josh taught my family how to go Geo caching. It has now become an obsession with Landon! He can't get enough. Dave's brother gave him a GPS a few years back.. it's not near as nice as the one my uncle had, but it serves it's purpose, for now. We really want to get a new one!

Dave was looking at the GPS and trying to figure out if we were in the right location while Landon went off searching.. sure enough he found it, and he couldn't have been more proud! They are camouflage little boxes, can you spot it in the picture?

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Dawson Ross- sports enthusiast!

Baseball Guy

Football Guy

Basketball Guy

This guy cracks me up!

Vegas, Disneyland and St. George Trip

2010-04-27T08:31:00.016-06:00

I widdled down the pictures from about 500 to however many are in this post, which is TONS! But hey, we had a blast and want it well documented!

VEGAS!

We started our vacation by driving to Vegas and staying at the newish South Point Hotel and Casino. It did not disappoint. We had a great time! Dave and I have always loved Vegas. This hotel offered us a free buffet breakfast (which was super nice) and their pool was to die for, and the weather was fabulous! I got to lay out while the boys swam.

Landon couldn't wait to try out his new goggles he got for his birthday.

Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay

We saw this exhibit while looking for hotels online. It was sort of expensive so I just took the kids in while Dave looked for a parking spot on the strip. It was awesome! We saw some great white Sharks, hammerhead shards, sawfish and much, much more. We will definitely go back.

No trip to the strip would be complete without visiting M&M world and the fountain show at the Bellagio. Landon and Dawson both loved the fountain show.

We also like to make sure we visit the botanical gardens at the Bellagio when we go. Every time they have a different theme, and it's usually gorgeous and amazing. This one is by far my favorite yet. It was so cute! They had a bug/gardening theme. So fun!

BEACH!

The first day we got to California we decided to hit up the beach. It was fun, but very windy! Landon loved running with the waves and collecting seashells. Dawson had fun playing in the sand.

There was a very long boardwalk with a restaurant at the end of it called Ruby's. It was neat looking out the windows and being surrounded by the ocean while we ate.

There were tons of windsurfers out, Landon thought these guys were awesome.

DISNEYLAND!

Two VERY excited little boys waiting to board the bus to Disneyland! (I think the bus might have been one of the highlights of the trip.)

Landon loves Jack from The Nightmare Before Christmas.

This would be the only female character Landon permitted us to visit. Don't let this smile fool you, he was NOT happy to see her at all. She signed his autograph book and he later ripped her page out. Stinker.

Dawson saw Winnie the Pooh probably 5 times, he loves him. He also fell in love with Tigger who was playing a fun game with Dawson while waiting in line to meet him. Dawson would yell "HEY!" and Tigger would make a spitting noise at him. Dawson thought this was awesome.

We all agreed this was the lamest ride ever. I already knew this, but wanted Landon to go on it once. He would joke the rest of the time and say "It's a Small World is the BEST RIDE EVER! NOT!" Or he would threaten Dawson the whole trip "If you do that again, I'll make you go on It's a Small World over and over again!"

Splash Mountain was Landon's favorite. We went on this one lots.

The Winnie the Pooh ride was Dawson's favorite, I now hate this ride. Ugh, how many times can you see Huffalumps and Woozles?! (or however you say that).

Toy Story Mania at California Adventure was also a favorite, what a fun ride!

Landon and I getting ready to get on the Hollywood Tower of Terror.

We saw this driving to St. George from California. Crazy huh?

Overall California was A BLAST! Landon went on every ride he was tall enough for! He had no fear which made it fun for Dave and me. He did everything twice so that Dave and I could each experience the rides with him. Dawson was fun and cute with all the characters. It was so sad to leave, we cant wait to go back!

St. George!

It was nice being able to stop in St. George to break up the drive. My parents, Joseph, and the Mills' family met us there. We all stayed at my Grandparents winter home they have there. It was (as it always is) a great time!

We went to this really fun park, the kids went twice they had so much fun!

We spent most of Saturday and Sunday hiking in Snow Canyon and the Dixie Rock.

At the top of the Dixie rock

We also went to the Mountain Man Rendezvous.. which was odd, but fun.

Right by the St. George Tabernacle they have this really fun splash pad, we spent a few hours there letting the kids get wet. Landon spent most of his time laying in the sun, I kept asking him if he wanted to swim and he said "No, I am just really enjoying soaking up the sun!"

We all went Lizard hunting and found lots of Lizards with Uncle Joseph's help. Landon was really proud that h spotted 4 on his own, but needed Joesph to catch them.

Rylund and Landon like to match. Amy and I got these shirts for them at the outlets, they thought they were pretty awesome being twins hunting for lizards.

Overall... WHAT A FUN TRIP!!!!!!

He's FIVE!!!

2010-04-12T14:02:00.008-06:00

Landon had a great birthday! A week long Birthday full of (dinosaur!) parties!

First party was at preschool! He wanted to make blue dinosaur cupcakes, with blue sprinkles along the side only.. not the top. Hey.. his vision, I just created it.

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We celebrated his Birthday on the Saturday before because he was only having a cousin party, and the bulk of the cousins were going out of town. So he got to wake up to his dinosaur decor before his birthday, he loved it!

All of the Bruderer family came over for this party. We had a pinata, which the kids always love. If you'll notice, everyone is in blue.. that's because Landon told everyone if they didn't wear blue, he would pinch them. Also.. don't mind the big scab on his forehead. That was Dawson's birthday gift to Landon. Dawson got a little swing happy with his new Easter bat.

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On Landon's actual birthday he woke up and got his gifts from us. A new Dinosaur game for his Leapster, and a Dinosaur Dig kit. See pics below. He wants to be a Paleontologist when he gets older. He absolutely loved this gift!

Later in the day my mom watched Dawson so Landon and I could go to lunch and a movie. We saw 'How to Train Your Dragon.' Super Cute!

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Ross Family Party!

Since Landon has a cousin with a birthday 4 days apart, we always celebrate together. Since it was Dave's actual birthday as well, he got to celebrate too! (But don't feel too bad for Dave, we celebrated his birthday the day before by going to a movie and getting chinese takeout.)

Landon getting his annual Birthday Spankings from Grandpa Ross. He hates them.. can't you tell? :)

Landon at age 5:

Is infatuated with dinosaurs!

Loves to be with his whole family, and can't stand when he is separated from us.

Favorite food is fettuccine Alfredo and chocolate milk.

Favorite Color is blue and turquoise.

Loves to wear his hair in a mohawk.

Favorite movies are Jurassic Park (with mom and dad making him cover his eyes in the people eating parts) and The Land Before Time.

Loves going to Cabelas, but hates the Doctor.

Still loves his office supplies, and anything in quantity.

He loves to dig for hidden treasures outside.

His best friends are Rylund (cousin) and his brother, Dawson.

He loves hunting and fishing.

Loves camping and hiking!

Happy Easter!

2010-04-05T11:40:00.005-06:00

Two handsome men in their Easter clothes.

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Clinton City Easter Egg hunt= The COLDEST egg hunt I can remember. I was frozen by the time it was over. Dave went with Dawson, and I went with Landon. The cold didn't phase Landon. He doesn't mess around when it comes to Easter egg hunts. I think he had the most out of any kid I saw.

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Easter Morning

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Easter Lunch at Grandma and Pa Haycock's
(and another Easter egg hunt)

Again, check out Landon's loot! He seriously doesn't mess around. My grandma put 50 gold coins in the eggs this year. Landon found 4 and Dawson got 1! They were so happy!

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Easter Dinner at Grandma and Grandpa Ross'
(again, another egg hunt!)

Dave's parents are awesome. His dad went and purchased a whole bunch of fun little toys and treats and hid them around his yard. This was so fun for the kids!

Giving grandpa loves after a fun Easter Hunt.

Showing Grandma the goods.

Artistic

2010-04-05T11:32:00.003-06:00

Both of my kids have a natural talent when it comes to art. It's no wonder where their talent comes from.

St. Patty's Day!

2010-03-26T08:08:00.001-06:00

My Birthday

2010-03-23T08:49:00.007-06:00

My birthday was awesome this year! It made me realize how blessed I am to have such a great family, and good friends!

The morning started with Dave, Mike, Rory and Jim (my bro's in law) coming to hang sheetrock. Some would say this isn't a fun birthday, but progress on our basement makes me VERY happy! :)

Then, my sweet friend, Melanie, brought me this fabulous cake. I mentioned to her at Christmas time how much I love this cinnamon pudding cake. She gave me the recipe, I tried to make it and it flopped! (surprise, surprise). Well, I was very happy to eat this for breakfast on my birthday! Thanks again!

Landon got me this beautiful frog necklace. I know you all wanna borrow it, right?! There's a story behind this. About a year ago we were at Target and Landon saw this necklace. He wanted to get it for me SO BAD. I told him maybe for my birthday, knowing my birthday was far away and thinking he would forget about it. Well, target STILL had it, and no.. he didn't forget. So now I am a proud owner. I love it still though, he is such a sweet boy.

Dave, Landon, Dawson, Cecily and Jaycee all went shopping for me and got me this shirt and a cute necklace. I love it.

One of my favorite parts of the day? Coming into my bathroom to get ready and seeing sweet notes from my boys on the mirror. Landon's says: "you are pretty, love Landon."

The next day (Sunday) we went to my parents house for the annual "birthday dinner/party"!
We all look forward to this. I picked grilled hamburgers for my birthday dinner and wanted Costco's DELICIOUS chocolate cake. My birthday is the only time of year I can justify eating this. My parents and Amy were out of town for the weekend and were going to be there just in time for the party, so Lori and Becky got everything ready for it. Thanks guys!!

I got a lot of really funny, and really sentimental gifts this year. I haven't laughed this hard in a long time.

This is from Robert and Kari. Yeah.. thanks guys!(one says BUTT the other says BACK) They also got me a way cute shirt and necklace!

K, so anyone who knew me around 5th-7th grade time frame would know how I loved to wear cartoon character shirts. And lets not forget I was JUST A TAD bit overweight. I HATE PICTURES FROM THAT TIME FRAME! My family just loves to find some of those jems and blow them up, hang them in random places, just to make me mad. Becky thought she was clever when she made me a brand new 'Marvin the Martian' shirt. Right before I opened this I opened a new wallet from Lori with a nice photo of me back from the day wearing an awful 'Marvin' shirt. Thanks guys!

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This is another story. This is from Joseph. When he was about 5 years old he gave me a pine cone mounted on a sour cream lid. He wanted me to display it in my room, and I did. I was probably 15 at the time. When we moved into our new house and I got my new room I kinda put it in a drawer and forgot about it. Joseph didn't. He was all torn up about the fact that I didn't have it displayed. I hurried and put it back up on my shelf. Well, now comes the time that I am engaged and packing up my room (like 4 years AFTER all this). I then threw the pine cone away. Joseph is about 9 years old about now. About 2 days after I threw it away he came into my room and demanded to know where it was. I FELT AWFUL!!! I had to tell him I threw it away. I guess I really hurt his feelings. Anyway, he was thoughtful enough to make me a new one. He wants this to be displayed in my house as well. I wont throw this one away. It reads:"To Cami, Love Joseph"

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About 6 years ago for one of my birthdays Becky decided to make me this blanket. She wrapped it up and gave it to me unfinished, and said she would get it done soon. Well, every year after I would say "So, is my blanket done yet?" it never was. It kinda turned into a joke. So she finished it for me this year. :) About a year after the blanket, for my birthday she started painting me some sunflower paintings for my kitchen (she is an awesome painter!). She wrapped the frames with unpainted pictures in them, and said she would get them done soon. Well, she didn't and it too turned into a joke. So this was the year of finishing things for Becky. The wait was worth it! She instead painted me these AWESOME paintings for my living room, and I love them!!!

Thanks again to everyone who made me feel very special and loved on my birthday!

February

2010-02-22T10:08:00.004-07:00

Most important things first!
Rob (My bro) and Kari had their baby girl!
Eliza was born February 4th. She is gorgeous and she is already loved much by my whole family. Landon talks about her nonstop and has nicknamed her "Baby Li Li." He said he wouldn't mind having a baby, as long as it was just like Eliza.

Just look at Landon's expression, he is fascinated by her!

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We had Kaemon and Eli over the other night. Dave took Kaemon and Landon to go wash cars. I put this show on for Eli and Dawson. It's called 'Baby Pro.' It's kinda like baby Einstein, but all sports. You can imagine how much Dawson LOVES this movie. He wants to watch it nonstop and this is pretty much how he stands the whole time he is watching it.

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VALENTINES FESTIVITIES

Last year for Valentines Day we went to Logan for the 'Cache Valley Getaway' package they offer. We had so much fun last year that we went again this year. I think it's going to be a tradition. It helps that Becky and Mike live up there, too! They were kind enough to watch Dawson so Dave, Landon and I could go to dinner (included in the package). After dinner we all went back to the hotel and swam for a while. After swimming we were all exhausted. I thought for sure Dawson would sleep better than he did last year. No, he did WORSE. He was up at 3:30 shouting "ALL DONE!!!" ugh, what a loooong night. Here's to hoping for next year! :)

Dawson still has no fear of water. He was jumping off the side! At first Dave would catch him, but towards the end he didn't even want Dave to do so. He just jumped right into the water. He is so unlike me.

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We were lucky enough to have Dave's grandma and Uncle Don here for a short visit over Vday weekend. My kids adore them! Anytime we get to visit with them is a good time.

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The boys were out shopping. Landon insisted Dave buy me these flowers. Sweet boy.

Another failed attempt at getting a cute picture of the two of them smiling. Out of about 15, this is the best I could get.

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Family Home Evening.

Landonomous Rex

2010-02-17T12:29:00.007-07:00

Dave's brother, Jeff, has nicknames for everyone. One that he has for Landon is "Landonomous Rex." For some reason this name has stuck, and several people call him this. More recently this is an appropriate nickname for him! One that he loves :) He has become obsessed with dinosaurs! He's always liked them.. but now he's pretty much a paleontologist (as he would say). He loves to watch 'The Dinosaur Train' on PBS, and absolutely loves learning anything he can about dino's.

If you go here he can tell you the names of every dinosaur (which some have very hard, long names!) How big they are, what time period they are from and if they are carnivores, herbivores, or omnivores! We think he's a genius, but what parents would think differently of their own? :)

I went to check on him playing in his room the other day and found him doing this. This first picture he has the dinosaurs in a "face off" Carnivores versus Herbivores. After looking at the second picture you can tell who won. My favorite is the giant stuffed dino getting eaten by a little one. Hey.. battle of the fittest, I guess.

He also wanted to know if he could have a "Dinosaur Insectopedia" Took me a minute to find out he was meaning "encyclopedia." After doing some chores and earning some money we went to Barnes and Noble and got these books, which are now his constant companions.

If I Can Get It On My Head....

2010-02-10T12:46:00.006-07:00

... then it must be a FOOTBALL HELMET!

For the past 2 months now Dawson will put anything he can find on his head. If it stays put, then bam.. football helmet! He gets really quite proud of himself, too. I finally started snapping pictures, just because I think it's hilarious.

Baseball helmet... close, but not quite.

When he put these headphones on he was laughing himself sick and kept saying "I a football." I just assumed it was another "helmet" until he was watching football with Dave and they did a close up shot on one of the coaches wearing their headsets and Dawson ran and put them on again.

My personal favorite.

I was trying to get him to put this coat on for a cute picture. He wouldn't have it until he saw the hat, I mean football helmet, then he was all smiles.

Well, I did what any good parent would do and ordered him his very own football helmet online for his birthday. I couldn't find one anywhere around here. It was supposed to arrive the week before his birthday. We got it last week. That's right 3 weeks late. I didn't have my camera when he opened it, but you can imagine his excitement. It hasn't left his side since!

(Yes, this is a BYU helmet, and No.. Dave isn't happy about it. I guess when I buy, I pick the team.)

Dawson Turned 2!

2010-01-25T08:48:00.006-07:00

Hard to believe, but Dawson is now 2. Everyone says time flies, but seriously! What happened to my baby?

Dave and I always like to decorate for our kids birthdays so when they wake up they can get excited for their day. Landon was so excited to stay up late and help us with Dawson's decor. When Dawson woke up he was so excited. He kept yelling over and over again "BACK IT BALL BOON!!!"(basketball balloon) We then gave him the much anticipated basketball hoop, which he loves!
Dawson has two loves in live. Basketball and Football. We decided to have two separate parties for him this year. One with Dave's fam, one with mine. Which made it fun to have one basketball themed party, and one football.

He was a very spoiled little boy who got tons of awesome things from the people who love him most!

Some fun things to know about Dawson at age 2:

* His life revolves around shooting hoops and pretending to get touchdowns.

* He lives for football and basketball!

* His favorite thing to watch on TV is..... Football.

* He refers to himself as "Dawsy."

*He never stops.

* He is very destructive, but always feels really bad after he breaks something.

* His favorite food is cereal. Any type, and time.

* His favorite songs are: "shake, shake" and "I Love You"

* He is a major daddy's boy!

* He loves his brother, but loves to antagonize him even more!

* He talks tons now, and even other people can understand him! :) His favorite things to say are: "I shoot the back- it- ball!" and "Touchdooooowwwwwn!" while dramatically throwing himself and the football down.

* He still sleeps with his "kee Kee" (blanket) and loves to cuddle with it when he's sad.

* He loves to sing and dance!

* He loves to go visit pampa (grandpa).

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAWSON, WE LOVE YOU!

My really lame attempt at making cute basketball cupcakes. There's a good reason I usually just buy cakes.