Dan and Lexi's Excellent Adventure

The sweet smell of chlorine

2012-01-29T20:51:00.000-07:00

It was the last week of this session of swim lessons. It's a little bittersweet...

The kids LOVE swim lessons, but Tuesday and Thursday evenings have been less than relaxing. So we (Dan and Lexi) are taking a break and skipping the next session.

On the last day of lessons the instructors turned on the slide and let the kids have at it.

So sorry for the sideways video - just tilt your head to the left a bit...

A while ago Dan and Lexi began thinking about getting Caroline out of her crib and into a big girl bed. A few obstacles stood in the way and Dan and Lexi liked that she was "confined". She couldn't quite climb out so it was still safe. But with the advance in potty training (BTW: dry at night too!) it was time. As Lexi took apart the crib she realized that the twin bed did not need to be lugged up from the basement, but rather the crib could sit on the floor with the sides simply removed! Yeah simplicity!

Of course there is a learning curve. As stated before, the crib offered confinement. Of the twp naps Caroline was put down for only one resulted in sleep, but not before she explored her room and dumped the contents of every bin on her floor.

Yes, she is fast asleep on the floor... Clearly the bed is optional, why do we bother?

It's Spring!

2012-01-23T20:21:00.000-07:00

The weather here has been... hummmmm... let's say less than frightful; at least until yesterday! Old man winter finally showed up (looking more like a big spring storm) and we used the opportunity to get out of the house and teach the kids that snow can be fun!

At least for a little bit. Their interest didn't last long. So in a desperate move (and being unwilling to drive ANYWHERE), the kids enjoyed some hot cocoa and a rousing game (is that the right word?) of dress up ensued (Caroline makes a great Santa!). Please feel free to copy, keep, and blackmail Hayden with the below (we plan to!).

In all fairness, this weekend was actually very effective. Dan and Lexi got many projects done and the kids behaved well! After all, Dan and Lexi decided to make it a three-day weekend! We now use an antenna to watch TV (how quaint?). Did you know you could do that? The picture is crystal clear uncompressed HD. We also decreased out Internet speed. Essentially we made some changes because we think that our money is best kept with us (or in our kids' 529s), and not with Comcast (bastards!). That, and we want to buy a 2012 Subaru Impreza by August (woot! woot!).

Lexi, snapped this picture on our way to Target. Sometime Utah can be beautiful.

We may have a winner!

2012-01-16T21:12:00.001-07:00

The week started out unremarkable. Then there was Wednesday... Hayden was acting more cuddly than usual (which is REALLY cuddly!) Eventually Lexi felt the back of his neck and realized that the boy had quite the fever. It has been a while since anyone in this house had a fever. After a bit of searching we came up with an oral thermometer (the rectal one was easy to find, but he's 4...). After a dose of ibuprofen and a cool bath, Dan was sent to the store for a better temperature-taking option (we opted for temporal one because we could take temperatures without waking the kids). So it became a 5-day weekend for the kids!

Dan and Lexi took turns taking the day off work. Dan had first watch. On Lexi's day Hayden was feeling a bit better. Somewhere along the line he asked to watch Wonder Woman. Thank you Hulu! Hayden, Caroline, and Lexi spent a couple hours watching Wonder Woman episodes from long ago. Hayden asked (and asked and asked and asked (he's 4)) why Wonder Woman never wears pants and gets to run around in her underwear. Then he wanted a Wonder Woman costume. Lexi was able to put together Wonder Woman bracelets.

Hayden fascination about underwear wasn't unique. Dan and Lexi were forced to get serious about potty training Caroline. She always wanted to watch Potty Power (a potty training movie with obnoxiously catchy songs about "sittin' on the potty" and saying "bye bye to diapers" as well as songs that teach kids to "wipe your bottom front to back") and always asked to poop in the potty, so it was time. She has been a champ! As expected, there were a few accidents as she learned the time delay between "I HAVE TO PEE!" and making it to the toilet, but overall she's been quite successful. (Why did we wait?? - probably because we had a boy first...or we are lazy...)

Way back in 1998 Dan bought his first car - a Pontiac Grand Am. The car has been good to us but it needs to rest. For some time Dan has been researching new cars. He and Lexi have their favorites, but with the kids it would have been a marathon to go from dealer to dealer and see each. Enter the Utah Auto Show (dun da dummm)! Lexi thought it would be a great one-stop way to see each car and a great indoor playground for the kids on a freezy day. Yeah, yeah... all the cars were looked over and Dan and Lexi got tons of questions answered, and have in fact have pretty much decided on a winner; but the kids don't really care!

They spent the day rolling around on the floor between exhibits and "driving" to various relatives' homes. (Did you make the short list for a visit? Check back next time and find out!)

The smiles after:

Just as we were leaving Hayden saw Tow Mater! (It's Disney - if the marketing didn't work we'd be surprised!)

After all the fun the family came home to rest (Caroline did a great job on that one...) It was also time to train to Jezebel on her muzzle. She has a nasty (and costly) habit of attacking other dogs. After other training options failed, it was time for a muzzle. She did quite well and loved putting it on (because it meant lots of treats and love)!

Swim Lessons!

2012-01-08T20:47:00.000-07:00

It all began last Fathers' Day... Somehow Lexi got it in her head that swimming with kids would be a fun activity. Since then, Hayden and Caroline (especially Hayden) have begged to go swimming every time the word pool is mentioned. This presents a problem as our house is half a block from the park with the indoor and outdoor pool... These kids needed swim lessons - Dan and Lexi were not going to carry them around the pool as teenagers. Now each Tuesday and Thursday evening the family heads to the pool.

They are fish. Really! You take them out of the water and they start flopping back toward it. They are going to shame Michael Phelps. Yes, they are!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-02T17:25:00.002-07:00

Resolution: BLOG! Here we go...

New Year's Eve is fondue night! Dan and Lexi carefully chose a "kid-friendly" fondue (cheddar with apple cider) with baguette, apples, and (of course) hot dogs for dipping.

Dessert was beignets with lemon-orange dipping sauce. The deep fryer had been collecting dust for some time...

Both the fondue and the beignets were BIG hits! (Of course they were - who doesn't like dipping?)

After dinner Dan and Hayden broke out the wishbone from the Christmas Eve (free - thanks WinCo) turkey. Apparently free turkeys have different wishbones. Dan and Hayden gave it a tug and the top (wish portion) went flying into the air and each was only left with half a bone... Everyone decided that this meant both wishes will come true. (It took some time, but the top portion was finally found under a bookcase!)

She was one-of-a-kind, she was an original, she will be missed

2009-11-17T18:03:00.012-07:00

What Kerry, Bill, and Gina say in jest, we declare with conviction. In each of our lives, we have gained and lost beloved pets, but in all that time there has never been one such as Delilah. She truly was one-of-a-kind, she was an original, and we miss her deeply.

Today (11/17/2009) we euthanized Delilah due to aggressive lymphoma. We tried hard to come to this decision quickly as Delilah was fading fast—it had been more than a week since she really ate much. She had lost 20 pounds—a lot for an animal that only weighed 70 pounds. She was clearly in pain. While we remain convinced we made the right decision for our family, and for Delilah; it hurts like hell. Over the next few days we are going to tell you a little bit about our friend Delilah and how much she brought to our lives.

Before we found Delilah, we had been looking at dogs for sometime. In Utah, all the different animal shelters and humane organizations get together periodically for a Super Pet Adoption. At these events there are 300 different dogs and thousands of people and their pets. As you can imagine, it is a mob scene. It is also an excellent environment to gauge a dog’s demeanor. After looking at hundreds of dogs, we could tell that Delilah was special the moment we saw her. One of Lexi’s earliest memories of Delilah was returning from talking to the adoption people to find Dan and Delilah sitting quietly amongst all the commotion. Delilah surprised us then, and never stopped until today. The adoption people told us that she was scheduled to be euthanized two hours after she was rescued. I guess we can be grateful for the gift of the last six years.

It is important to understand our situation in September 2003. We had only been married three years. Those years were each spent in a different state. Dan was in law school and Lexi had just started with the Jordan School District. We weren’t even sure what it meant to “settle,” and were certain it would never happen in Utah. The biggest vehicle we owned was Dan’s Pontiac, and it was pure comedy trying to get Delilah, her kennel, and all the other supplies into the Pontiac. It took 30 minutes to figure it out; but figure it out we did, and Delilah made it to her new home. Here is a picture taken the day she came home.

Delilah was a pure joy. The day she came home we took her out back to brush her but she decided to run away and introduce herself to the neighbors. A day or two later, she ate her own adoption papers! We were told Delilah wasn’t potty trained. Either they were wrong, or she was a very fast learner. She was really good at first impressions. Delilah had a special temperament she would ask permission to join you on the couch or bed. She was also quite the cuddler. There was no better way to fall asleep than with your arm around Delilah.

The thing I think we will remember about Delilah was her sense of adventure, or at least how she inspired it in us. Over the holidays of 2003, we took Delilah to Lexi’s family reunion in Salina, California. Picture Dan, Lexi, Judy, and Don in a rented minivan going over Truckee pass in a blizzard with newly purchased chains and Delilah in her kennel in the back. Something we will never forget; a first of many adventures.

One of the highlights of the trip was Delilah’s visit to the Pacific Ocean. She loved chasing bubbles, and those waves brought endless joy.

On this trip we also learned that Delilah always felt right at home, even in big cities. We spent a night in San Francisco, right by Union Square; Delilah didn’t even bat an eye at all the commotion.

This was before we diagnosed all Delilah’s food allergies and she vomited on the carpet in our very nice hotel room. Dan cleaned it up as best he could, but what really saved us was that Delilah vomited on the area of the carpet that matched the color of her vomit exactly! She was always so considerate!

This trip took us through the end of 2003. It was a wonderful year mostly because of Delilah’s arrival. Little did we know back then the impact she would have—not only on us, but on our entire extended family as well. We will post some more memories of Delilah in the days to come. In the meantime, cherish what you love and don’t postpone what can be enjoyed today.

The First Haircut

2009-11-04T20:16:00.005-07:00

The irony of a blog is the more you have to write about, the less time you have to do the writing. In an effort to get some news out, we will be tackling the news bit by bit. Tonight we want to tell you about Hayden's first haircut.

The classic "before" picture:

This was actually the third attempt to get Hayden's hair cut; but, every time we got to the barber shop before, Hayden was fast asleep by the time we got there. In no hurry to cut his hair, we waited until this week when his long hair started getting in his eyes at bath time. We waited because we knew it would be rough . . . we were right! Here is the very first snip.

How could we do this to our baby? Let's hope they get easier in the future!

Funday!

2009-10-05T11:23:00.009-06:00

So what do you do on a cold, wet Sunday...Caroline got a bottle for the first time! She loved it!! Lexi and Hayden made cookies!Are they done yet?They are delicious!

The Big #2

2009-10-02T17:54:00.011-06:00

Hayden's special day started with a trip to the Tracy Aviary.He love mimicking each and every bird! His favorite sound was the owl. He repeated it all day...Then there were the peacocks... If you look closely you can see Hayden copying the peacock's defensive noises and posture.

Dan and Lexi have, on many occasions, ridiculed The Mayan Restaurant. But when it came to choosing a place to celebrate Hayden's second birthday there was no place better.Who knew the cliff divers were that awesome? He was laughing out loud as they plummeted into the pool.Then there were presents. In the past, Hayden has had issues opening presents and even envelopes, so there was no telling how his would go. The boy is easily upset when things are torn or broken. But this time it was great! He loved seeing what was under the paper. He feed the animals on the box and in the cards pieces of corn chips. He is a great sharer!Then there was dessert! The second picture speaks volumes!

A Decision to Last a Lifetime

2009-08-28T12:25:00.006-06:00

Announcing
Caroline Alexandra

The Sequel Arrives!

2009-08-27T17:10:00.006-06:00

Please help us welcome the newest addition to our family. Sequel has arrived!

12:40 pm

6 pounds 15 ounces

20 inches

It's Official

2009-08-17T20:35:00.003-06:00

Well sports fans, I know that the drama of our home buying experience has provided you and yours with oodles of quality entertainment, but sadly it must come to an end. This Wednesday at 4:00 pm, we sign our life away. What does this mean you ask, well I'll tell you; Thursday at 5:00 pm we take possession of our new home!

While our new home doesn't have the prestige of this little colonial number, we are sure that we will come to love it all the same! Besides our home comes with less stress, and it is in a much better part of town.

With everything going on, we have been asked if we need anything (house warming gift/baby gift). To respond to these requests, we have updated our Amazon.com Wish List. Our goal is to put needed (or dreamed for--it should be obvious which is which) items for the new yard, new house, or new baby on this one list. Also, we still have the registry at Babies R Us. Of course nothing is required or expected. Let us know if you have additional questions, we'd gladly answer any questions you have about giving us gifts!

We continue to do well, and simply hope that Lexi doesn't give birth before this weekend's move is completed. All who want to help are welcome! We will provide our new address via e-mail by the end of the week, if we miss you, contact us and we will get you the updated address.

Update: New Loves!

2009-08-15T20:52:00.006-06:00

The watermelon was such a hit, it is fast becoming a staple in our home. The other day Lexi set out out a plate of the red juicy stuff as an "appetizer". Hayden RAN to the table, sat in chair and was climbing on the table to get his share. After a brief talk about how there is NO CLIMBING on the table, he sat nicely and waited for a piece.
Later that week Hayden got a special treat - a bubble bath! Lexi found a "tear free" Mr. Bubble while searching for facial moisturizer. What fun!
Finally, not that he loves it, but Hayden is just about done drooling and getting in those 2-year molars. We try and keep them pearly white!

New Loves!

2009-08-05T16:53:00.017-06:00

Before Hayden was born, Dan named him Agamemnon. This fun name was used with family and friends alike. At the baby shower Hayden received a teddy bear named Agamemnon. It sat in his crib until he was old enough to roll over and then it was moved out to a toy box. Once he was old enough it went back in the crib. Poor Aggie mostly sat in the corner and watched Hayden sleep. The last few days Hayden has started to pay more attention to Aggie. When he would wake up, Aggie would get his pacifier and hold on it until Hayden was ready to sleep again. Then Aggie was not allowed to stay in the crib. If Hayden was out, Aggie was out. Today Aggie didn't have a minute to himself! Hayden insisted on carrying him EVERYWHERE! He even took the time to give Aggie a snack!

Speaking of snacks, Hayden has a new fav - Watermelon. He has had it before - cut up into bit size pieces, but this was his first time with the rind and all. It was a great chance to practice colors. We spent a bit of time focusing on eating only the RED part. He tried the green part a few times and didn't like it much, but didn't give up on it right away - he was giving the green part a chance!

Can you reject this face?

2009-08-02T09:58:00.005-06:00

Hey everyone out there! We've been quiet about it because the purchase has been fraught with delays, but we are buying a house. See it? That one there behind Hayden.

Hayden told us that he doesn't like lifting heavy objects. Something about being to short to move a bookcase. I for one am getting tired of his excuses! Since Lexi is out of commission because of the pregnancy, we are asking for your help. We will be moving the weekend of August 21st (assuming the roof repairs are completed on time). Anyone in the Salt Lake area that can help out will be given pizza and beverage. Hope to see you there!

After all, can you reject that face?

Staycation? We prefer, Fun in the Sun.

2009-08-02T09:13:00.009-06:00

In an effort to do better with the blog you are getting an bonus today. Lucky you! Yesterday Lexi, as her very pregnant self, decided the family needed a break from all the stress we've been dealing with and put together a wonderful picnic. She was apparently inspired by her grandmother who sent her a link to a great picnic spread. Lexi toiled in the kitchen and made an amazing egg salad (it had BACON!!!!), a tomato salad, and brownies. We decided to use our membership to the Red Butte Garden, thanks to Dan's parents for that!

Once there we quickly found our way to the children's garden and Hayden settled right in on his favorite snakes. Egg salad be damned! Hayden clearly does not hold bacon in the same regard as his father. We think it is OK though, after all we were all young and foolish once.

Lexi and Dan ate their food while keeping an ever watchful eye on Hayden; no easy task with water features involved! At one point, Lexi exclaimed, "Dan, why did you take the top piece of bread from my sandwich!" After a quick investigation the culprit was identified. A lesson that there is a cost to watching Hayden.

After Hayden was good and wet, he moved on from the water snakes to a giant plant serpent he could run through. Hayden ran, and ran, and ran. He loved it! For reasons we didn't quite understand, for the most part we had the entire area to ourselves. We didn't mind it. Neither did Hayden. All and all, after a stressful week, it was great to have some fun in the sun.

Zion

2009-07-22T16:09:00.019-06:00

Dan and Lexi started a tradition many many moons ago of getting out of town on a Memorial Day Adventure. In it's second year we decided that it was time to invite friends! Hey, it's a party now!! A few years in and we decided that we could invite family too and show them that Southern Utah is wonderful. So a new tradition was born - a family and friends summer adventure! And now that we have so many people in on it, it doesn't always fall to us to plan it - benefit!!

This year it was a trip to Zion National Park. Dan's parents, Lexi's mom and stepdad, Dan's older brother, his kids and his wife, and Dan's younger brother all joined us! Hayden had a great time! Lexi's mom and stepdad stayed in a hotel a few steps from the campground and were nice enough to let Hayden spend the night with them, although he did catch a nap with Lexi one afternoon in the tent!

Dan went on quite a few hikes with his family, while Lexi, sporting quite the belly, stayed closer to camp and did only the easy hikes.

One day Lexi, her mom, stepdad, and Hayden took a side trip to Kanab and took in a tour of Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. The adults had a nice time and Hayden couldn't get enough doggies and kitties. When the party got in the van to visit another location he would spend the entire time yelling about the doggies and kitties he just saw - not so sure the other patrons appreciated that!

Hayden loved everything that had to do with water! He found that when you throw a stick in the river you can chase it, or have your grandpa chase it for you!

Lexi found the opportunity to give an impromptu science lesson. As she sat on the shore watching Hayden play in the river she noticed an odd looking slimy thing and upon investigation discovered it was an egg sack. She called everyone around and discussed what animal might have left it the evolutionary advantages and disadvantages of an egg sack like that.

Hayden had his first s'more! He is now addicted to marshmallows, which he calls ME MEs. First thing in the morning he runs to the pantry and points to his mouth saying ME ME, ME ME!!

As Promised...

2009-07-21T09:58:00.013-06:00

At the end of May (yeah this post is WAY late!!), Dan needed to travel to Phoenix for some training. Work pays for him to travel from where ever, so we thought why not from LA? That way Lexi and Hayden could visit with her family while Dan was away. It worked out wonderfully!

We drove out on Memorial Day Weekend and seemed to miss most of the traffic. Dan, Lexi, Hayden, Lexi's dad, his wife, and Lexi's brother went down to a festival in Hermosa Beach and Hayden was able to play in the water and get every inch of his body covered in sand. (Side note – most small children are scared of those icy and powerful showers at the beach!)

Hayden spent almost every minute of his day in the backyard playing with Rosco and learning that green tomatoes don't taste as good as the red ones. (Lexi's dad small crop was getting smaller...)

Lexi and Hayden were able to visit with her grandparents at a jungle themed restaurant – Hayden LOVES elephants so he was entertained.

Lexi, Hayden, and her dad visited the Aquarium of the Pacific. Hayden was most fascinated by the giant gray whale hanging from the ceiling. The fish were interesting, but that whale...!!!!! Oh boy!! Hayden did get his fingers in the shark petting pool, but pulled them out the moment a shark came close.

Once Dan returned, we all took off to the dog beach. Yet more water for Hayden!! We really should have brought the swim diapers!

Even with the long drive home, we were all happy that we got out of town and had a vacation!

Only if you want to...

2009-06-26T07:24:00.002-06:00

OK, this is only for those who were wondering if there is anything we still need for Sequel. We have created a registry at Babies R Us.
Really, really, really this is not us begging for gifts, just some people have expressed interest and we thought we'd let you know. Thanks!
Note: The registry from Hayden is still on there, so look at the due dates!

A Kiss From Beyond

2009-06-23T19:52:00.004-06:00

Today was yet another ultrasound. We have them so often that we really don't think much of them; but, today we got a special surprise. Our first kiss from Sequel!

We have to admit, this image looks clearer in person, but if you look carefully you will see a pair of pursed lips slightly above dead center. Just to the right you will see a nose with two cute little nostrils. It's our first kiss from Sequel!

We promise, we will get to the post about LA and Zion, so stay tuned!

Round and Round we go. . .

2009-06-21T12:50:00.003-06:00

Ok, ok so we haven't had a post in a couple of months. Normally we would say that is because nothing has happened, but the real reason is exactly the opposite. These past few months have been crazy! Dan continues to travel for work, and on one recent trip we were able to incorporate a family vacation.

Dan had a meeting in Phoenix the week after Memorial day, and instead of leaving Lexi home alone in Utah with two dogs and a baby, the whole family went to LA to spend some time with Lexi's Dad. Conveniently, Dan's employer paid for him to travel to Phoenix from LA instead of Utah. So Lexi got some quality family time while Dan was in Phoenix working (during the day anyway). To even add more “bang for the buck” Dan stayed with his brother, Nate, in Phoenix. This gave him three things, quality family time, extra money as Dan gets a cut of what his employer saved, and something to do at night. Dan has gotten a little sick of hanging out in hotel rooms. Expect a post soon with stories and photos about our LA adventure.

Less than a week after our return to Utah, we met up with other family members in Zion National Park for five days of visiting, hiking, and feasting surrounded by the red sandstone cliffs of Zion Canyon. Watch for a future post regarding this 2009 Family and Friend Adventure.

Perhaps most significantly, May saw the arrival of our ninth anniversary. Here is a picture of Lexi and Hayden with the traditional anniversary flower arrangement.

Nine years? Wow! Watch for the posts about LA and Zion. They should be up soon!

Hayden's Second (first really) Easter

2009-04-12T20:13:00.011-06:00

Easter weekend is here and our family decided that this year was going to be special for Hayden's first Easter--last year doesn't really count. The first order of business was an Easter egg scramble. Hayden really didn't know what to make if it all, but with Lexi's help, he got a few eggs. No one is sure where the candy is now. Last time it was seen Lexi had it. Dan is sure it has vanished out of concern for Hayden's health, and planning ahead for pregnancy cravings.

The second activity was a trip to the zoo! Lexi's mother gave us a zoo membership and boy we sure do use it. For those who are wondering--none I'm sure--a trip to the zoo with a Biology teacher can be dangerous. Free advice, if you ever find yourself at a zoo with a biology teacher, give her an Ipod! Overhearing people talking about animals that can't tell the difference between a Canadian goose and a duck can prompt sudden outbursts!

Of course--as a recent card reminded us--no Easter is complete without Chocolate bunnies. So Hayden had his first Chocolate bunny. We weren't sure what he would do with it, since he really hasn't had much chocolate before; but, he dove right in. Our boy loves chocolate! I guess we now know that he is in fact Lexi's boy!

And the Verdict is.........

2009-04-05T13:03:00.007-06:00

A GIRL!!!

Yes that's right sports fans, little Hayden is going to have a little sister. Dan is concerned that the house will be returning to sexual equilibrium, but he'll manage. We are excited to see all the differences between raising Hayden, which so far has been a joy, and a girl. Feel free to send name suggestions; as long as you don't mind that they may be completely ignored!

Not to be outdone--the competition is already starting--Hayden wanted us to include one of his famous (or infamous depending on your opinion) dancing videos. This video is a little over a month old, we haven't uploaded it till now because Hayden isn't really dressed for his Internet dancing debut (seriously, we almost never let him run around in a diaper). Hayden wants all you singles out there to know that he will be available for dancing dates in about 13 years. He's not worried; because he knows he's worth the wait.

Announcing------Sequel!!!!

2009-03-15T09:01:00.003-06:00

Our family is growing!

We anticipate Sequel's arrival around September 5th.

How to Properly Consume Shortcake

2009-03-07T19:50:00.006-07:00

A tradition from Lexi side of the family occurs every spring, when the first strawberries go on sale; strawberry shortcake for dinner! This was the first year that Hayden was able to participate with the rest of the family. Lexi holds nothing back of course, homemade shortcake and whipped cream. Hayden was a little tentative at first; probably because his portion was so large, and well, he really doesn't get sweets much. But it didn't take long for him to dig in, and we mean dig.

Isn't he adorable? Well you better say yes, or we will show you another picture!

Lexi's Birthday Adventure!

2009-02-26T10:35:00.005-07:00

Dan put together a wonderful trip for Lexi’s birthday! Lexi’s mom came out to watch Hayden and Dan and Lexi took off Friday morning for Yellowstone.

Most of the roads in Yellowstone are closed in the winter and only the North Entrance is open. This gave Dan and Lexi the opportunity to travel through some beautiful parts of Montana that they never would have seen otherwise. Mammoth Hot Springs served as base camp for the wonderful weekend. (Note the elk – a herd had set up camp around the hotel and they became part of life there!)

The first day Dan and Lexi took off snow shoeing to Tower Falls. The road was open to Roosevelt Stables, and it was a nice groomed trail from there to the falls. Dan is sitting across the canyon from a very interesting rock formation - a sea of lava cooled and left incredible hexagonal columns.

From the falls, a trail led down to the Yellowstone River below and Dan and Lexi ate a lovely box lunch at the water’s edge. The beach was later named Potato Chip Beach for the half potato chip Lexi dropped into the rocks.

Along the trail there were many signs of wildlife. The most exciting were the wolf tracks and scat. (Yes, Lexi took time out to look closely at poop!)

After a late evening hike up to the Terraces, it was off to bed as the next day a snow coach adventure awaited. Dan arranged a snow coach tour of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. It was a wonderful all day adventure and the vistas and wildlife did not disappoint. Dan and Lexi were able to see elk, deer, rabbits, fox, coyotes, trumpeter swans and other various waterfowl, river otters, a bald eagle, and wolves!

Then it was back to the hotel for a bath (no shower in the room, but at least it had a private bath!) and dinner. After dinner Dan had booked an hour in a private hot tub – what a wonderful end to a wonderful adventure!

Hayden is One!

2008-10-04T16:16:00.008-06:00

Lexi spent the last week and a half working her tail off getting the house ready to put on the market. Dan's parents came out to help and steam cleaned the carpets, washed windows, laid linoleum and carpet, painted... Just as Dan's mom was finishing the painting, Hayden found the almost full paint can, tipped it over and pried off the lid. At least half a gallon spilled all over the kitchen floor by the time Lexi righted the can and picked him up out of the mess. He was just starting to splash in the paint and was not happy that he had to stop. Dan's mom frantically scooped paint back into can by the handful and Dan's dad worked at containing the mess as not to let it continue into the pantry. Lexi held Hayden over the sink until she could figure out a way getting the paint off him without getting it all over everything else. By the time she figured that out, Dan's parents were scrubbing the grout with a toothbrush and doing their best not to let it set up.

The day they left, Lexi's mom and stepdad came and there was more painting - lots more - and lots and lots of cleaning and packing away anything that made the house look full. They took a break to celebrate Hayden's first birthday but were right back at it as soon as he fell asleep. It is finally ready, and she is extremely tired!

Hayden's birthday was a lot of fun. Lexi, her mom, and Hayden spent the day at IKEA shopping for rugs and such to make the house look fresh and new. Hayden scored a few toys for his birthday too! With all the chaos in the house, baking a cake for Hayden was out of the question so it was off to the supermarket to buy one. Once Lexi explained that she was purchasing a cake for a first birthday, she was offered a free "smash cake". Hayden was not sure what to make of it, he had finished dinner and was not used to more food being offered him. As soon as the candle was blown out he reached for it and got a finger full of hot wax - his first burn on his first birthday! The cake was only OK after that... Good thing we get a redo when Lexi and Hayden go out to visit Dan in another week!

Walking and Talking - Will the Fun Ever End?

2008-09-23T13:29:00.005-06:00

As Hayden welcomed in the last month of his first year, he decided that a few steps and a word were in order. As the month has progressed, the walking is getting better and better!
And that first word... DOG!!! No, not mama or dada, dog. It actually sounds more like daag-th, but he says it every time he sees dogs. He makes a point of calling for them every morning. Lexi has discovered that lots of things look like dogs: rabbits, dear, cats, bears... Hayden sees pictures of them in books and yells: DAAG-TH! Lexi politely explains yes, that (insert animal here) looks like a dog, doesn't it!

Our Busy Summer!

2008-09-12T13:06:00.026-06:00

In May, Dan and Lexi celebrated their 8th wedding anniversary. It was wonderful! The celebration began a week in advance when they went to see "The Producers". (They had to go early as Hayden's babysitters (aka Dan's brother and his wife) were off to Italy at the end of the month!) Dan suprised Lexi with a beautiful cake and a very large bouquet of flowers. (There's a yellow rose (Lexi's favorite color) for each year and a blue daisy for Hayden.)

Then it was off on the annual Memorial Day Adventure. This year it was a crazy trip to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon and then on to Arches National Park. Dan reserved a lovely cabin on the North Rim and Hayden discovered that he had lots of room to practice his crawling. Dan and Lexi discovered that hotel rooms are wonderfully baby proofed - ever try and find a plug in a hotel room? Arrival was marked with snow, but just a dusting really. The next day, while chilly, was warming up. While at the North Rim Dan trotted around with Hayden in the backpack carrier while Lexi explored the animal life in the snow.

Then it was off to Arches. (As you can see, Hayden really wanted in on the driving!) Hayden had great fun exploring sand - nothing like the rocks and gravel he had held before. There was wonder in his eyes as it fell from his hands and blew away!

June was quieter, relatively speaking, but July was yet another adventure: Yellowstone!!! Hayden's first camping experience! He was GREAT! Dan and Lexi borrowed a tent from Dan's parents and set up the travel crib inside. Hayden slept well under a mountain of blankets as did Dan and Lexi!

At the end of July Dan received word that he was to report back to training. He actually only had less than 24 hours notice! Dan and Lexi had been planning to drive back so Dan could have a car while he was there, but with the short notice that plan was changed to Lexi and Hayden driving to Colorado to pick up Lexi's mom and stepdad, Don, and then the four of them driving out. Hayden was OK with the long days in the car, but did want to stretch his legs more than he was able. The group found some great reststops and restraunts that work VERY well for little kids (and big kids too!) Once they met up with Dan they were able to make a trip into D.C. and see some old friends of Don's.

Once back home, Lexi quickly washed the clothes and put them back in the suitcase for a trip to CA. Lexi's dad finally got to meet the "best grandson in the whole wide world." Lexi and Hayden stayed with her Uncle, Aunt and cousins as their family was preparing to send their youngest off to college! They also had the opportunity to meet up with another one of Lexi's cousins that she had not seen in more than 10 years. Hayden got his first experience with the ocean - pictures of that are coming as soon as Uncle Andy gets it togther!!

Again it was a short trip home for Lexi and Hayden, in less than a week they were off to Virginia to see Dan again. This time it was trips to Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown that kept the crew busy. Lexi's mom and stepdad came during the week and Hayden had the chance to sample the Atlantic Ocean. By chance the group found a lovely beach on the Chesapeake Bay and in the clam, warm waters Hayden (and Lexi too!) were able to play for quite a while.

Crawling!!

2008-05-18T19:26:00.008-06:00

Hayden has been so close to crawling for a quite a while now. On Thursday, May 15, he did it! You heard it here! It is official - Hayden can crawl! The second Dan and Lexi saw the first move the video camera came out and so here you can see the very first moves too! (That noise in the background is the dogs playing!)

As Memorial Day Weekend approaches, Dan and Lexi have been thinking about their annual adventure. It will involve hiking, so it was time to try out the backpack carrier. Holy cow that thing is comfy!

Sharp Little Suckers and a Body that Moves!

2008-05-11T16:04:00.007-06:00

On May 1, Lexi was changing Hayden's diaper while he giggled away. As she looked into his mouth, there it was - a tooth! By the next day it had erupted and just a few days later its twin appeared. No top teeth yet, just the two lowers. Hayden's new favorite thing is to take his fingers and put them in his mouth and chop down - hard!

The newest addition to the nursery has taken over the house It is affectionately called the "OK Corral". It is wonderful. Hayden has room to move around and Dan and Lexi can leave him to play for a few minutes as they put dinner together. It has also worked wonders to encourage crawling. We place toys at one end and him at the other. So far it has mostly been rolling over and over to get to the toys and then pivoting on his tummy to get the perfect position, but a few times we have had pseudo-crawling. Just this morning he coordinated a hand and foot movement and moved forward!

We Have Roll Over!

2008-02-03T12:56:00.000-07:00

To celebrate Groundhog Day, (will Phil ever NOT see his shadow?) Hayden decided it was time to roll over! He was laying on his play gym, doing push-ups, and just let one arm go. All of a sudden he was on his back. It looked like this first time was an accident, so Lexi rolled him back on his tummy and he did it again, and again! The second the camera was out, he was done and wanted no more tummy time - typical!

Later in the day he performed this great feat for Aunt Lori and Uncle Bart and they were properly impressed. Unfortuantley, any time Grandma Judy is around, he acts as if the camera is out! (She did finally get to see the amazing feat a few days later.)

Hi Dad!

2008-01-22T15:49:00.000-07:00

Friday morning was hectic as Lexi and Hayden put the final pieces together for the trip to see Dan. The security line at the airport was forever long and Lexi was overwhelmed with all that went into getting a baby through the screening! They raced to the gate and plopped into their seats. Just as they started to relax the pilot came over the PA and announced that there would be a slight delay because the black box was malfunctioning. He indicated that it was probably a quick fix. About 10 minutes later he announced that take off would be delayed until 11:10 (original schedule called for a 9:55 departure.)

Not to bad, especially with a Cinnabon, and Hayden happy palling around in the sling. Lexi also took this opportunity to make friends with the gate agent - a very nice woman. Then another loop through the terminal and back to the gate to find out the new departure time was 12:00. OK, no problem, she just need to get back on the plane and get the diaper bag. By the time she made it down the Jetway, everyone was getting off the plane. The passengers said they had canceled the flight! Instead of fighting like a salmon to get the diaper bag, Lexi and Hayden headed back out to see what the official story was. Yes, the flight was canceled.

It was a great thing Lexi made friends with the gate agent. As everyone else lined up at the nearby kiosk, she strolled up to her new friend and got her new flight assignment: now a 4:50 flight into Dulles instead of Reagan. OK, no problem. She called a friend and got a ride home so they didn't have to sit in the airport for the next 5 hours.

Amidst all this fun Lexi and Dan had to re-coordinate their hotel and rental car plans. Lexi was going to pick up the car when she landed and then drive down to get Dan and they would check into the hotel together. Now that the flight did not get in until midnight and at a different airport, somethings needed to change. Dan could pick up the car, but at a different location. So after some initial panic that the new location didn't have anything with wheels available, he found something that moved! We had a lot of fun riding around in a Chevy Silverado all weekend.

The new flight left on time and Dan was able to pick up the rental car and meet them at the airport when they finally arrived. Because of the late arrival and the fact that he is a wonderful person, Dan was even able to set up the crib and have everything ready in the hotel room!

On Saturday Dan gave Lexi and Hayden the full tour of his temporary home. It is quite a place! We wondered all over the campus. What struck Lexi most, was how quiet it was. We even came across a deer munching on detris near the gym.

Sunday was a very, very cold day. The decision of which Smithsonian to visit was an easy one: the one closest to the Metro stop! It was a good choice - an exhibit of Asian art, specifically the Golden Graves of Ancient Vani.

The next day we took it easy, checking out of the hotel only after they called our room to ask if we were really leaving! At lunch Lexi received a phone call from Delta alerting her that her flight was delayed. Oh, fun, this was sounding familiar. No worries, this meant more time with Dan!

So, Dan took Lexi and Hayden to a gargantuan outlet mall. Dan and Lexi wondered around as Hayden slept. After walking for a few miles Lexi was tired enough to get on the plane for 5 hours.

When we arrived at the airport, Lexi received another phone call from Delta with another delay for her flight. Well, we were at the airport already so... We checked Lexi and Hayden's bag and politely asked the agent if Dan could accompany Lexi and Hayden to the gate to "help with the baby and all." The ticket agent was quite obliging and handed Dan a pass without a problem. We ate dinner and fed Hayden. Then Dan was able to understand the miracle that is getting a baby through security. A few sad goodbyes later, Lexi and Hayden were on their way to a VERY snowy home.

Civics Lesson

2008-01-13T17:31:00.000-07:00

For the last couple of years, the Utah State Capitol has been closed as work was performed to update the structure and retrofit it so it won't come crashing down in an earthquake. (One newscaster said the building was being "earthquake proofed". We giggled at that!) Anyway... the building was reopened and rededicated this last week so Lexi, Hayden, Judy, and Don went on over to take a look. The main hall was busy as a high school choir performed and student volunteers lead mini tours. The Capitol looks wonderful! They did a great job restoring it and Hayden enjoyed all the bright colors and lights. He even had the opportunity to nurse in the gallery of the House of Representatives.

Dan had a tough week with exams and a fitness test. It was very stressful but is now over. He was able to get away for the weekend and see a friend from law school. This week does hold more tests, but not as jam packed as last week!

And the verdict is..... San Francisco!

2008-01-09T18:09:00.000-07:00

Dan got the job he wanted and we are heading to San Francisco! We will be moving in late April. Stay tuned for more information.

Hayden's New Toy

2008-01-06T12:14:00.000-07:00

Early this week Lexi, Judy, and Hayden took a trip to Babies-R-Us to return a few items and look for a sling. As we walked through the store testing the sling out, we came across the Activity Centers / ExerSaucers. Dan and Lexi had always talked of getting Hayden one and now that he has good head control and is on the verge of sitting up independently, Lexi thought it was time to try one out. Hayden was THRILLED! We moved him through the various models available and he was happy to play for a good 30 minutes. It was his first experience with independent play and what a success! (Side note: Hayden is amazing in so many ways, but during this experience he showed us yet another - he picked the least expensive model as his favorite!)

We did find a sling we liked while at Babies-R-Us, but not one they sold. After playing, Hayden needed to be fed so we went back into the mother's room. There Lexi met a very pleasant woman with a very fashionable sling. After talking, Lexi was convinced this was the sling for her and went home and ordered one. It truly is the best sling and so easy to use!

Mid-week Lexi went back to work. It was nice to start back with a short week! Judy was here and was able to watch Hayden. They have been having tons of fun together!

Dan had his first exam this week. He did VERY well! This coming week is going to be very busy as he has more exams and his second fitness test. But the highlight will be finding out where we will be living! Dan and Lexi are both on pins and needles with excitement!

Holiday Downs and Ups!

2007-12-29T12:22:00.000-07:00

It was really hard for Dan to leave Lexi and Hayden on Christmas day; but we were very grateful for the opportunity to spend time together as a family. This will certainly be a Christmas we will not soon forget. Dan had to work a full day on Saturday (till 6:30) to make up for being home on the 24th. Even though it was just a four day week, it seemed very long. Dan is excited for New Year’s this week. He plans to hang out with his good friend Jim in Washington D.C. We hope it makes this week better. Testing starts in earnest this week, but Dan is quite confident he will do well on this first test. The next few weeks are going to be very busy as Dan prepares for several tests, including the second PFT.

Things are going well at home without Dan. Lexi is on break and able to spend lots of time playing with Hayden and Judy and Don are here helping out. Lexi and Hayden are getting back into the swing of things without Dan by planning a January trip to see him.

Hayden has developed quite the gift of gab. We tried to capture it on video, but as soon as the camera is whipped out, he gets quiet and is fascinated by the red light. After many takes, we finally got a decent shot, but it still does not show him in full splendor!

Christmas time!!

2007-12-24T14:02:00.000-07:00

Happy ho ho ho!! Sub-for-Santa ended with a record $20,000 collected. The final numbers are not back from the bank yet, but we anticipate about $20,200. The last day of the drive the students raised more than $7000!

Lexi received a special delivery on Thursday - Dan sent a gorgeous flower arrangement. It was the least he could do after abandoning her for the last four weeks!

Dan is home and we are having a wonderful holiday. He was shocked to see how big Hayden has gotten. Even after 23 hours without sleep, Dan noticed that Hayden was more aware of his surroundings. Hayden has begun focusing on objects and is trying to understand them. His personality is really beginning to emerge.

Hayden is learning to laugh. Earlier this week, he gave Lexi a scare when he started trying to laugh by inhaling rather than exhaling. The resulting gasps for air were quite worrisome. Because of Dan's tight travel schedule, we observed Christmas on the 24th. Hayden's first Christmas was very special. Hayden made out like a bandit! Thanks to all our friends and family who gave us so much. We thank you, but Hayden was much more interested in staring at the lights on the Christmas tree than his gifts.

We hope that you and those you care for have a wonderful holiday season. While the past few weeks have been a trial, we recognize the many blessings in our lives. Above all, we are grateful for the help and support of our family and friends. You guys are amazing!

Baby, it's cold outside!

2007-12-14T14:17:00.000-07:00

Good night!! Only one day this week was predicted to be above freezing, and with the wind chill it never did break 32 degrees! It is really winter here.

Hayden was on his play gym this week and hit the duck with his hand - looked like a accident from my angle. But the amazing thing was, after he hit it - he realized what he did and he did it over and over and over!!

Dan is WAY SORE this week. He even lost the skin on his knuckles and got sand in his eyes during one workout.

Lexi is still plugging away with Sub-for-Santa. The students have raised more than $8000 so far! Considering the difficult economic times, that is quite good. We will see what this week brings!

Whew!

2007-12-09T11:12:00.000-07:00

If we would have blinked, we would have missed it! This week has flown by!

Hayden is enjoying exploring his world. He grabbed at and then shook a rattle. He is starting to understand the cause and effect of his hands and arms.

Lexi has started the craziness of Sub-for-Santa at school. She loves the hustle and bustle of it all. Last year the students raised over $16,000!! It is amazing that high school students are willing to give so much with no thought of themselves.

Dan was issued is tool of last resort this week, and was fitted for the protective clothing unique to his line of work. He is learning lots and lots!

We are hanging on for another whirlwind week... (Isn't December always like that?)

It is finally winter!

2007-12-01T20:48:00.000-07:00

After a very warm fall, we finally have snow. The weather service called for a light dusting and rain mixed with snow. By 4 pm we had at least 6 - 8 inches! I think someone at the weather service is looking into new employment now!

Hayden was fast asleep as we went out and didn't wake, even as he became blanked in the fluffy white stuff. I think we all wish we could sleep like he does!