Devin LeRoy & Karissa

2010 Trip: Four Wheeling

2010-03-08T15:25:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone- I arrived home last Thursday, but I don't have all of our events from our trip up yet. Last Tuesday dad, mom, Lee and I went four wheeling! Thanks to neighbor Jeff, we each had our own four wheeler. We went somewhere that was only about a half hour away from mom and dad's place, I can't remember the name. We had a great time, mom and Lee didn't want to stop!

Above is mom on her very own four wheeler and I am below on Jeff's.

The waterfall was the first of many water crossings.

Here is dad going down a large hill, I think he was trying to go down no handed.

Above is where we parked the truck. You can see some paths across the way. When we were finished on the trail we road around in this area for a while. On the lower level of the picture it appears that the paths just end, but they actually go down a sharp hill and then back up real quick. Below is a picture of Lee riding towards the truck. Actually Lee is in the above picture as well, but all you can probably see is a little black dot.

I'm not for sure how long or far we rode, but it sure was fun! I can't wait to do it again next year, I can see why mom loves it so much.

I have one more day of our vacation to post, I'll try and get it up soon... till then.

2010 Trip: The Main Event @ LVMS

2010-03-01T18:22:00.000-08:00

Saturday February 27th

The above picture is of Harvick in his 33 car who ended up winning the Nationwide Race! When this picture was taken he was in 2nd place. The picture below was taken towards the end of Saturday's race.

During the race there is a number of helicopters flying around doing flips in the air. You can tell by the picture it wasn't the nicest day. The race was delayed a couple of hours due to rain and it was cold and windy during the race. We made it most of the time up on the camper, but when the sprinkles came we all headed in to the camper. We watched the rest of the race on the TV where it was warm. There was a 10 second delay between the race and the TV broadcast, so we would hear a loud boom sound then 10 seconds later we would see the crash on the TV. It was pretty cool.

Sunday February 28th

On Sunday Harvick came in 2nd place after, once again, Jimmie Johnson, who came in first. It was a perfect day out side and a great race.

The Nellis Air Force Base is located across the road from the race track. Every year towards the end of the National Anthem they surprise us by coming over the race track. I wasn't expecting them yet so I didn't get a good shot of them.

Mom, Me and Lee up on the camper watching the Race.

Here is Harvick! I took about 40 pictures of him and got a few good ones.

The picture above is towards the end of the race when Harvick was running 4th. He is Behind Jeff Gordon who lead a majority of the race and Jimmie Johnson who was running 2nd. Not really sure about the 33 car up front- think it was time for him to pit because the leaders just had.

This is one of the great views at the race track. You can see the campers above the track. Thanks Mom and Dad for another wonderful time at the Races!

2010 Trip: The Flight

2010-03-01T17:51:00.000-08:00

I took a few pictures on the plane plane, it was a gorgeous view the entire way. I didn't even sleep! You can tell that the pictures are in the order from SD to Vegas.

I'm a few days behind in my postings, but I will get you guys pictures!

Ah... Happy Valentine's day?!?

2010-02-16T16:54:00.001-08:00

Ok so I have a confession to make... I didn't exactly make it to Cherokee on Sunday night. I made it to Sioux Center and then made it into the ditch. A nice Sheriff came and picked me up and took me to a dive hotel for the night. As I was getting out of his huge truck I slipped on the ice, landing hard on my lower back and hitting my head on the floor board of his truck. I saw those little star things... let me say I had a killer headache all day on Monday. Here is my car being pulled out of the ditch.

Earlier on Sunday at work I was clearing off our dock and moving coke products. I was moving a 8 pack of two liters and slammed it down on my finger in between crates. I think I then pulled a dad (you know the 9 word sequence of not so nice words that come out of his mouth when he gets hurt). My finger was definately black and blue and throbbing for the rest of the day. Everyone kept saying I was going to loose my finger nail. Well, then Ben told me that he could save my nail and convinced me to let him drill into my finger. He didn't use an actual drill, just the bit. I think he went a little too far :( I screamed and blood squirted everywhere! It hurt so bad, but now feels so much better that the pressure has been released and I can use my finger again. So anyways... Hope you all had a Happy Valentine's Day!

Doing Some Cleaning

2010-02-13T08:13:00.000-08:00

Devin was helping me clean yesterday on our day off. He's such a good little helper.

Geo Trax

2010-01-31T11:34:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! Today is my day off and I'm lucky enough to be able to spend the day with Devin! The first thing we have done is put together his Geo Trax using every piece except for the airport, which is still in Cherokee. However, we did leave a space for it. Tracks are harder to piece together then the appear, right Lynnette.

Winter Pictures

2010-01-25T17:30:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! As you all probably know we are getting yet another winter storm! Luckily I do not have anywhere I needed to go today, except to get Devin, who is staying another night in Vermillion.
Sometimes when I am driving in to Sioux Falls I wish that I had my camera on me to take a few photos that I see along the way. So on one of my days off the other day I was able to get out in Sioux Falls and explore a little. It was an extremely foggy day, but was able to get a few good photos.

2010-01-17T16:28:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone I don't have too much to share with everyone just been busy working. Thought that I would share a picture with you. Have a great week!

2010-01-04T11:59:00.001-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY
DEVIN LEROY!

Christmas at Grandma Hays

2009-12-29T16:08:00.000-08:00

This Christmas we were at Grandma Teresa's in Vermillion. The entire family was snowed in together for a few days. We had 6 grandkids and 7 adults! We had fun one day playing the Wii for 7 hours and at night we played some poker. I think all the kids were extremely happy with their gifts from Santa. It was nice to have a few days off however, Devin got sick on Christmas day when he threw up all over the living room floor. After that both Ben and I got it, but I think Ben got it worse. We didn't make it to Cherokee yet for Christmas but hope to Friday. Hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas!! Here are some pictures from the break.

Devin with his new train tracks.

Talen with Karter, Preston with Cullen, Grandma with Devin and Aiden!
Devin with his brother Riley
Talen being handed her new puppy Max
Devin on his new tricycle from Grandma Teresa
The swing in the backyard

Trip to see Logan and the family

2009-11-24T10:48:00.000-08:00

Look who's 2!

Hello everyone, so much to post! Devin and I went to Cherokee to celebrate Logan's 2nd Birthday! The first night we were able to hang out and play some games hosted by Emily. We played a game kind of like sherades and the rhyme game. Emily also read us a story she wrote. I think the biggest hit was Kevin the horsie! I think that he got his work out. Here is a bunch of pictures for those who could not join us.

On top of Uncle Horsie
Kyle and Derek
Birthday Boy!
Cool Dude!
Antie Monkey!
Looking good Kim!
Em the Author
Great grandpa
Hey You!
Yes, Dinner time!
Sophia, Emily and Devin

2009-11-04T10:02:00.000-08:00

HAPPY 30th BIRTHDAY BEN ON FRIDAY NOVEMBER 6th!

Greetings from South Dakota!
Devin and I moved again, this time to Hartford, SD, which is about 10 miles NW of Sioux Falls. We moved into my co-worker Miriam's house. Once we are settled I will post some pictures- it's a beautiful house! We don't have internet at home and that is why I have been doing a poor job of posting lately, I will do better once I finally have internet again.
Devin was nothing for Halloween : ( I had to work till 9 that night and I just really didn't want to buy him a costum when he wasn't going to be able to go out. So sorry guys, that means I don't have any pictures. However, I do plan on taking his pictures soon and will hopefully get them passed out at Logan's Party, that's the goal anyways. Well happy November!

Devin's 2nd Hair Cut!

2009-10-16T10:09:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I gave Devin his second hair cut. It wasn't as difficult as I thought it would be, he was more cooperative then I was expecting. Of course, I had to bribe him with a candy bar and bananas. The hair cut turn out alright, there is a place above his ear that isn't so good, but besides that it all is well.

This morning I was changing Devin's diaper and he said poop. He has been telling us poop after he goes potty and needs changed. Anyways, I asked him if he needed to go to the potty. He got up and ran to his potty chair in the bathroom, sat down and went pee! Of course none of it made it in the potty, but it's a start. I'm not even trying to potty train him! Hope it will be this easy when the time comes.

Hello Hello!

2009-09-29T18:21:00.001-07:00

Hello Everyone!
Yes, it has been an entire month since I have posted and I appologies for that. I do not have internet at my house figured out yet and having problems with Qwest.
The past month I have been learning so much at my job. I trained up front sacking and checking for the first week, since then I have been in the back room. It is unbelievable the volume of product coming in and out of the back room here. They are not shy when it comes to letting people know that they are the number one store in the district and the sales are incredable. So if you could even imagine the mess we must sort continuously. We have a truck 6 nights a week and they are full, some times we get 3 truck loads in 2 hours (grocery, frozen and produce)... that doesn't make anyone happy. My position is fast pace which I love! I have met some increadable people here at the store, we do have great employees who have shown me so much respect.
Last night was the last night I stayed at the trailor. Yes, it is sold and Ben is suppose to be out of it tomorrow. So our last night there... Devin screamed, whined and bawled last night for about 6 hours! Finally, at about 2am we decided to take him to the ER. He has a double ear infection and the Dr. said his ears were bright red. Poor little man. He has water draining from his mouth wetting a shirt in no time (more teeth?), his nose is running like a fausit, he is congested and in lots of pain with his ears. Every time he lays down he crys so the past two night were pretty rough.
Well my lunch is up and I need to head back down to my new office- the back room!
One more thing, I am losing my USD e-mail, any suggestions on where I should get a new one at?
Sorry about my spelling and grammar- maybe i'll fix it later.

Off to Sioux Falls...

2009-08-22T23:44:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! I just wanted to let you know that I am off to Sioux Falls on Monday. Mom and Dad are in Colorado for the night and will arrived at about 5:00pm this evening here in Cherokee. I'm so thankful and excited that they are make a trip to help me make this move. I have an apartment that is located right behind the mall in Sioux Falls and start my job on Monday the 31st!

I will miss being so close to my family, to Kim and my grandparents. It's also nice when others come home to visit. I really loved the idea of Logan and Devin growing up so close :(. However, I am not going too far and there's a lot more opportunities for me in Sioux Falls. Plus, you guys can come visit me as well! Thanks for everything Cherokee, I'm moving on once again.

"I Know, I know, I Do Know!"

2009-08-20T20:39:00.000-07:00

I wish you could have heard the chorus of this song, it was just starting... and it was incredible! Not only does he use the same words, but he has a melody too! By the way he is strumming a guitar, you can't really hear it though.

Baby Baby Baby

2009-08-18T20:30:00.000-07:00

Naked Boy!

2009-08-16T04:39:00.000-07:00

This is an older picture, but I wanted to get something posted. Devin doesn't like to wear his diaper all that much, so once in a while I will find him naked. He has been putting on clothes and taking them off as well. One hot day I put him in his crib in just his diaper and when I went to get him he was naked! Luckily he peed prior to the diaper removal. I have found diapers in his toy box and on his book shelf with the clean ones. Also, sometimes I can't find them at all, think they actually make it in the garbage! Oh the joys- I Love it!

I'm officially an adult!

2009-08-11T20:18:00.001-07:00

Now that I have my 2 weeks notice in every where I can share my secret... I have accepted a Full- Time position at Sioux Falls #3 Hy-Vee Store as a 2nd assistant manager! I couldn't be more excited for this opportunity. My first day there will be August 31st. If everything goes as planned I will be moved up to Sioux Falls on August 24th. Mom is flying in to help me the 25th!

Sioux Falls #3 is the newest and the largest Hy-vee store in Sioux Falls with over 600 employees, THAT'S HUGE! To put that into perspective the warehouse has somewhere between 300 and 350 employees! I'm going to start out learning to check, then customer service and hitting other departments in the store. Then I will perform the duties of the position, which is mostly back room management. I'll keep you all posted as things occur.

Bye Bye tongue ring :(

2009-08-08T03:39:00.001-07:00

Yes, I know, I need to blog more often! I like to post photos, but since I don't have a camera I don't really think of blogging. Plus it feels as if all I have been doing the past few weeks is working, which is good, but exhausting.

Lynnette and I were able to spend some time together a few weeks ago. She came to Vermillion to meet up with some of her old friends from school. I know that I had a great time, Renee and Tara always have great stories to tell! This was a picture taken of us at the very end of the night.

Time with Isabelle!

2009-07-24T02:30:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago Devin and I spent two days with Kristina and Isabelle. Kristina's Cousin Jason and his friend Shaun were in town and Tommy and Katie came over as well. Devin was a little cranky from his ears and teeth, but over all I think he had a lot of fun. At night we went to the ball field and I kept Devin and Isabelle entertained while others did some hitting and fielding. Devin gets really jealous of Isabelle; Every time I went to pick her up or pay attention to her Devin would get angry and wanted his mommy. At one point in time the two of them had me on the ground physically fighting over me. Both were holding me as tight as they possibly could. I ended up with a bruised cheek bone! Those two are strong, I felt like I was suffocating and could not get them off!

For the most part they got along, but they had their moments. Of course they fought over almost everything. How do you teach a 18 month old how to share?

Everyone was amazed at how much Devin could eat. He had three servings of Kristina's amazing lasagna. It was a fun little vacation to Marcus, IA. Oh yeah, and Shaun gave me a free tattoo while Jason and Kristina cooked for us! Thanks a guys for everything!

Omaha Zoo

2009-07-17T05:54:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, at last minute, we decided to take the kids to the Omaha Zoo. (Ginnia, David, Kristina and I took the kids Xzavier, Kalexus, Isabelle and Devin.)

Over all our day at the zoo went really well, all of the kids were well behaved, they seemed very interested in the animals and watched them attentively at each exhibit. Devin's favorite place was the aquarium. He enjoyed watching all the fish swim and would follow them as they went by.

Thanks Kim for the slide show website that I stole from your page, what a good idea, and it was easy too! There is one picture that was thrown in there on accident that was not at the zoo, but I don't feel like changing it.

CONGRATULATIONS BECCA AND ROYD!

2009-07-03T06:19:00.000-07:00

Jaxson Jay Reid

8lbs 14oz, 21"

2009-06-27T23:27:00.000-07:00

Y HAPPY ANNIVERSARY Y

Y KIM& KYLEY

Summer Fun

2009-06-24T22:57:00.000-07:00

In between rain showers Devin and I have been getting out of the house this week, not as much as we would like though. On Monday we went to the pool and to say the least Devin LOVES the water, but we all knew that already. I wish I would have gotten a picture of him in the water, but I didn't want to risk my phone getting damaged again. Before we went to the pool we took the short hike up to see the bench that Jim, Dad and Jeannie donated for Grandma and Grandpa. Devin wouldn't look at the camera for me of course. Let me just say that the bench gets pretty HOT in the sun so be careful!

This morning Devin and I went to Roosevelt to play on the little playground. He liked playing on the stairs and even went down the slide a few times with help from me. I'm not sure what he thought of the slide. His favorite thing to do at the playground was to bring me little rocks, one or two at a time. He did this for about a half hour! I felt bad for throwing the rocks down so I figured I would make something out of them. I ended up with this flower. He even brought me the little trig that I used for the stem! The first flower was better, but he ruined it :(

Tonight I was cleaning out the garage and the basement and he knocked my bike over! Luckily he ended up in-between the seat and the handle bars, close call! He started crying, but I think that it just startled him. He kept messing with the bike and looking at me. I took this as a sign that he wanted to go for a ride. So, I put on his little helmet and off we went on a long bike ride. I'm hoping next week we can get out side a little more, hopefully the rain is about done for the late spring we are having.

Poor Batman!

2009-06-19T01:43:00.000-07:00

Devin received his first fat-lip on Wednesday night. He was running around the house bouncing off the walls, literally. Apparently he tripped in our little hallway and put his face into the corner of the doorway (Glad I didn't have to witness it first hand). He definitely was screaming and bleeding. I was just thinking the day before that it wasn't going to be long until his first blood injury. He actually did pretty good, he didn't cry for too long and then he was off running around again in his Bat-man PJ's and cape!

Time With Emily!

2009-06-06T14:58:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago Emily came and spent the night with Devin and I. I started to try on a few dresses mom brought for me and before I knew it we were all playing dress up- Yes all of us! Guess that Derek isn't the only lil boy who wheres girl clothes! Devin's new thing is to get into my shoe draw and put on my heels. He always goes for my black ones. He does a really good job of walking in them and keeping them on his feet!

Emily then taught Devin how to scream, I mean really scream! I'm glad that he didn't remember in the morning! Hope we can have another slumber party soon!

Karter Louis Hays

2009-05-27T14:31:00.000-07:00

Born May 21, 2009

9lb 13oz! 20 3/4in long

CONGRATULATIONS

KARISSA AND BRYAN!

Sister Talen with dad Bryan and baby Karter

Karter- Devin's new Cousin!

The bottom picture is a picture of Devin when he was born- Can you believe how much these two look like each other?! Same cheeks, nose, hairline, eyes!

Just to clear something up; Bryans girlfriend's name is Karissa as well and what's even more ironic is her name is actually Karissa Ann!!

Family, Fun and finally some Sun!

2009-05-25T23:41:00.000-07:00

Devin and I have been busy the past few weeks. We celebrated Emily's Birthday on the 16th- She was 8 years old on Tuesday May 19th! I can't believe that it has been that long already. It was nice that The Hillabolts could come and celebrate as well.

This past week Devin and I took a mini vacation to Des Moines. The first night we stayed with uncle Lee and hung out with him in the morning when he got off of work. He is in the middle of fixing up his trailer to sell and looking for a new house. We watched the NIN concert on his new TV and did some house shopping on the internet. Devin loved dancing to the music, of course.

The next night Devin and I went to stay with Derek and Sophia. I watched them both nights, they are such good little kids for me.

On Friday night Devin and I went and spent the night with Ginnia, Xzavier and Kalexis. Devin and Kalexis are 6 days apart. For some reason I didn't get any pictures of them together. She is the cutest little thing, she is very shy and quiet.

Saturday was the main event; Trevor and Tricia's wedding! It was really great to get everyone together and drink some "kool-aid!" The kids were a hit on the dance floor and were all very well behaved.

Congratulations and welcome to the family Tricia Goodburn!

For some reason I took no pictures at all! I know Kevin has some, hopefully he will share them and then I can get them posted. The pictures shown here are of course taken by Kevin!

Devin's Room

2009-05-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

Devin finally has a room just for him, fit for a little boy. Dad and I found and painted letters for Devin's name while we were in Utah and then Ben hung them up in his room. I think it looks nice, thanks Dad and Ben! Devin has plenty of room to play and of course plenty of toys to play with.

To the Circus!

2009-05-11T19:06:00.001-07:00

Devin has been spending every weekend with his father since that is when I work the most at the YES Center, so it works out great. A couple of weekends ago Riley came to visit. Ben and Grandma Teresa took all five boys; Cullen, Aiden, Preston, Riley and Devin to the circus! I heard that it was long and sort of boring, but it was good that all the boys were able to spend some time together. Ben said that Devin was the worse behaved one, which is hard to believe. He would not sit still and was going up and down the stairs the entire time. Devin is on the move and no longer will sit still, right on track! Here is a few pictures that Ben took, not the best, but he said that he took the last one just for me... AWE!Riley (with his head turned) and Aiden (in brown) - along with two other kids we don't know.

Updates

2009-05-08T10:06:00.000-07:00

Like my hand? Freaky!

I have been so busy the past month that I have abandoned my computer and the internet. I have worked about 60 hours a week for the past four weeks which has been bitter sweet. It's nice to keep busy and not to mention the paychecks, but it's also nice to have a day off to relax and to spend time with my boy. I finished up the Census job on Wednesday and so we are finished. They said it would be about two months, but the job was just short of a month. It was alright for a temp job, I know I couldn't do it for much longer though. I couldn't have done it with out Ben being there when we needed him and of course Grandma Teresa, Kim and Great-Grandma and Grandpa Goodburn and Deb! Thanks for all your help!Now where to go from here? Today I am subbing, but school is going to be out soon. I am getting burned out at the YES Center and working weekends, so I don't know how much longer I will be doing that, at-least until I find another job, that much is for sure. There are four tracker positions opening up at the YES Center. I hope to get one, but I won't know for a little while yet. A tracker works right with the JCO (like a probation officer- Kramer) and helps keep "track" of the clients by going to their schools, homes and jobs to make sure they are doing what they are suppose to be doing and staying out of trouble. This would be a great opportunity and move in the right direction for me. My bosses at the Center told me to apply for the position so that is a good sign. Ben started a job in Vermillion installing Dish TV. He says that it's more complex then he thought it would be, which is good for him because he loves being challenged. He didn't take the position before because he thought that it wouldn't be stimulating enough and he was holding out for the windmills. We joked that as soon as he took a job then they would finally call, so maybe he should take it. Soon enough, his second week of training they called him for an interview. Ben had an interview on Monday, finally. He said that it went great! He was there for close to two hours. They told him that they would let him know later this week. He was bummed that they didn't get a hold of him yet, but I reminded him of how long their "week" really is. Considering they told him in November they would be doing interviews in the next few weeks! Ben had another job also that was in Watertown. He called and told him that he wouldn't be able to accept it, BRRR! Doesn't break my heart.

Devin is as good as always! He was sick for about a week after Easter and was pretty crabby, but all is well now. I think that he caught whatever Derek had during Easter. Bad case of the runs, which seems to eat at his little behind :(

Devin went to see a specialist for his ears, Dr. Abbott. He said that they looked good right now. Devin has had an ear infection about once a month until, of course, we made the appointment with the specialist. Dr. Abbott said that ear infections tend to come during the fall and winter time not usually during spring or summer. So, with that in mind he does not recommend doing tubes right now, which is what we all wanted to hear. Hopefully he will grow out of them.

At his appointment Devin was 26.5lb! He even gets weighted on the big boy scale now. I have come to terms that I no longer have a baby, he is now a full fledge toddler. He is very independent and wants to do everything himself! He loves to dance, especially to Ame

rican Idol (think he likes Kris the best) he is now even singing along! He sings just like his mommy- not good! He is ready for the dance in a few weeks at the wedding!

He still loves his books and his baths. He now loves to run up and down the side walk and spin in circles until he gets dizzy and falls down, which is very entertaining. Alright I have lunch duty now- Bye for now!

Easter Vacation

2009-05-08T08:35:00.001-07:00

So, I have heard that I need to blog...

We will go back to easter then and I'll do my best to get you updated. For Easter Grandma Marilyn came back for a week. Devin and I went to Des Moines where we were able to spend a couple of days with Derek, Sophia, Kevin and Lynnette. It was also Lynnette's birthday!! Hope you had a good one.

The Easter Bunny did not forget about Devin! Thanks to Grandma, Lynnette and Kevin for reminding him that Devin was there as well! Devin is enjoying a banana sucker from the Easter Bunny (actually I think he took it from Derek and unwrapped it himself) but boy did he love it!

It was really nice to get outside! It was such a nice day on Saturday. The kids were able to ride on their toys. Ben did such a good job of putting together Devin's new big wheel, but Devin can't reach the peddles yet. However, Derek showed him how to ride the green cricket, we should have brought it home with us. Devin needs something to ride on this summer.

I don't take a lot of pictures, I leave that to Kevin so I don't have the best to share with everyone!

On Sunday morning Sophia colored and decorated Easter Eggs. She seemed to have a wonderful time and did a great job! Thanks for the Eggs and the wonderful weekend!

Sophia looks so determined to pick out the perfect sticker for her eggs. Look at her concentration.

I'll blog soon...

2009-05-06T18:07:00.000-07:00

Have a Happy Easter!

2009-04-10T04:28:00.001-07:00

On Wednesday night mom, Kim and I took Logan, Emily and Devin to see the Easter Bunny at the Library. Devin was standing back with his eye on the Bunny. He wasn't too sure about it. He stayed on her lap for a little while then all of a sudden he had this frightened face and started to cry a little. He did good though, better than I thought. Emily and Logan had no problem at all.

The boys had so much fun going in and out of the little house at the Library. Logan loved the little rocking chairs and sat down and stood back up. He ended up with a jelly Bean which got all over his nice shirt. This little house they were playing in is the same little house that I use to play in when I was little!

Devin and I are on our way to Des Moines later today (Friday) for Aunt Lynnette's birthday tomorrow, I can't wait!

2009-04-04T15:01:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SOPHIA!!

Photo Booth!

2009-03-31T17:27:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JURZEE!

2009-03-30T07:55:00.000-07:00

Devin was able to see Riley and Jurzee this past weekend! Ben and Grandma Teresa took them all to Chucky Cheese for Jurzee's birthday. He didn't get a lot of pictures, but here is the group! Do you guys see all those curls on Riley and Jurzee's head, definitely from their father!

Hair Cut!

2009-03-25T16:38:00.001-07:00

Yeah that's right, today after work I went and got about six inches cut off my hair! It feels a lot lighter and healthier, I'm ready for spring time!

Here are a few pictures I took of Devin yesterday. It was our day off together, I cleaned the house and the basement for about 7 hours and I'm actually soar! Here is Devin drawing and him feeding himself. He does really good getting the spoon to his mouth, he just needs help getting things on his spoon. Potatoes are a good thing to practice with because they don't fall off of the spoon.

Okay you guys don't really care about my hair. Yesterday Devin had his first hair cut! That's right I took off his little curls :( I had no intention doing so until Ben told me he just about did. I figured I better do it so I can keep his little locks! I didn't get a good before picture, but here it is. I don't think that I did too bad of a job.

He looks so grown up!

Vacation Part VIII: Ivins, Ut

2009-03-15T01:32:00.000-07:00

Ivins, Utah is a suburb of St. George, which is located just north of the Arizona border and about 120 miles northeast of Las Vegas. People have often asked me why my parents choose to live in St. George's. When you visit there it is obvious. St. George's trademark is it's geology. Looking to the north you can see the red bluffs. To the south is the northeastern edge of the Mojave Desert and the Zion National Park can be seen to the east. To the north and northwest you can see the Pine Valley Mountains. They are all Simply beautiful and seem to meet right in St. George! The furthest we had to travel to see the wonderful things we explored was to Zion National Park, which was about an hour away. The rest of the places we went were within ten miles! Here are some pictures of the town that I took while just driving from place to place.

Vacation Part VII: The Petrogliphs

2009-03-15T00:58:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, Devin and my last day, mom and dad took us to see the petrogliphs that are located about 2 miles from my parents house. We walked a trail to them, which Devin is getting so good at! Dad was trying to give him a ride on his shoulders, but Devin wanted to walk!

The following are some pictures that I took on my phone of the Petrogliphs. For a great picture of Devin and I as well as more information browse on over to my parents blog!

After we explored the petrogliphs we went to a place... Kenya maybe, I'm not sure what it's called. Anyways, we explored a variety of art galleries and shops where there was pottery, photography, metal art, ceramics, found art and a lot of other types. The pieces there are amazing! I decided that everything there was too expensive for me so our last stop was to a place called "Dirt Cheap". There I found some ceramic pieces that I really liked. I stayed away from the metal pieces because my dad can make those. I have a pretty good little collection of southwestern art now. I had to leave it in Utah though and my parents will bring it home for me later.

Vacation Part VI: Swimming & Shooting

2009-03-15T00:26:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday mom took Devin and I to the Aquatic Center near their house. Knowing how much Devin loves his bath I thought that he would really like this. The first half hour he didn't know what to think. He clung to me and would not let me go for anything. I walked around carrying him. He was so cold and shivering. Mom had left to run some ahrends or else I would have probably given up on the swimming. Then all of a sudden Devin wanted down and to walk. I was right next to him so every time he would start to lean in one direction I would help him get his balance. But he walked and walked all over in the water. It was a gradual pool so it started at zero inches and just kept getting deeper. Devin would just keep walking even after his mouth would be in the water and wanted to go further. So, I had to redirect him. There was a few times he went under getting a mouth full of water, but it didn't stop him at all. Devin is just like me, we both love the water! I will have to look into getting a pass to the Aquatic Center in Cherokee this summer.

The following day my dad and I went shooting. I fired a shot gun a few times before, but not like this. We went to a shooting range that had 12 different stations for shooting clay pigeons (is that what they are called?) They would come from different directions at different stations so we were able to have a wide variety of targets. Out of 50 I was able to hit 10. That is not to bad for a first timer. We then wanted to shoot the hand gun, but the pistol range was closed. My dad then took me up the mountain to a place where he and Bill go which has a stand for targets he made. I did much better with the hand gun, especially at the end when he taught me how to aim! We did not get any pictures of the shooting : ( it would have been nice though. This is something that I will definitely do next time I go to Utah. It was a lot of fun and worth still being soar in the shoulders from.

We are Home

2009-03-14T09:15:00.000-07:00

Friday morning Dad woke Devin and up at 4:00 am so that we could start our long day home. We rode to Las Vegas where we were dropped off at the airport and had to say goodbye to Grandma and Grandpa. I want to thank them for their hospitality and all the great adventures they took us on.

Devin was very good on the airplane, except of the descend, I think that his ears were bothering him. Then Uncle Lee picked us up and we dropped him off at home and we were off to Cherokee. After close to an entire day of traveling, we arrived in Cherokee at about 3:50pm. Devin is a great traveler! Towards the end he got a little antsy and the only thing I had to give him was frosted animal crackers, what a mess!

Devin was helping with the unpacking!

I do have a few more post that I want to do over our time in Utah, but I just wanted to let everyone know that we made it back to Cherokee. Ben came yesterday and will be taking Devin to Vermillion for a few days so he can see his Grandma Teresa, who I am sure is waiting for him!

Thanks again everyone!

Vacation Part V: Snow Canyon

2009-03-10T09:40:00.000-07:00

Snow Canyon is located a few miles from my parents house. We were able to spend an afternoon here where we walked on one of the many trails.

There are many lizards living in Snow Canyon. We saw many tracks in the sand from them, but this is the only one that we spotted.

Here is the rock that we were able to climb. We spent quiet a bit of time on top resting and taking in the scenery.

At first the climb was difficult for Devin, but of course he kept practicing and with time he got pretty good climbing up the rock to grandma.

Lee's alteration to some other LeRoy's name. This LeRoy is not for Devin LeRoy, Lee A.K.A. LeRoy and Grandpa Steven LeRoy!

Tickle, Tickle & Milk Please

2009-03-10T09:05:00.000-07:00

Here is the best video I have been able to get of Devin tickling himself. I cut off his hands in the shot so you can't actually see the tickling part, but you can sure hear him.

The best thing I ever did was teach Devin some sign language. He doesn't know that many signs yet, but the one that has been a lifesaver is the sign for milk!

Vacation Part IV: Zion National Park of Utah

2009-03-08T08:47:00.001-07:00

Lee's last couple of days here (he went home Friday) we spent at Zion National Park and at Snow Canyon. Our first trip was to Zion, which was about an hour from my parents house. I took so many picture that it's hard to choose from the 160 to share with you. My pictures, however don't even compare to the actual scenery. The first few pictures I took from the vehicle as we were driving towards Zion.

There are a lot of curve that are in the middle of the rocks. I'm not quit sure what causes them, but there are quit a few. Below are just two that I captured.

The next two picture were taken at the Visitors Center the first one is of course Devin and the one below that you can see the moon in the sky. Both days of exploring the moon was visible!

The first trail we went on was a steep, but short hike up to Weeping Rock. The name Weeping Rock comes from the continuous water which "weeps" out of the alcove. As you can see in these next pictures there is a steady stream of water coming off of the rock.

Grandma Marilyn and Devin standing below Weeping Rock.

We continued our exploration on another trail, which I am not sure of the name. This one was a bit longer. This first picture is in the parking lot of the trail.

The picture above is a waterfall that is located at the beginning of our hike. Below you can see The Virgin River. This is the river that ran along the trail. The trail we follow leads up to the Narrows, which is a long hike in and out of the water.

Above you can see a deer. It is the first of a few that were along the path. They weren't to frightened by us, but why would they be when they get 2.5 million visitors a year! Below is a picture of the path that we were following.

Below is my favorite spot of the trail. There were many colors and shapes that were a result of the water coming from above. We were debating about one particular shape and whether it was a fish of something else. I also saw a ghost which was white and a little man looking thing. Also you can see some snow as well.

Below is a picture of Devin by a rock which for some reason had white swirls in it.

I'm not quit sure what Devin thought of the whole experience, but of course he was as good as gold. He looked around curiously at the whole thing taking everything in.

After the walking on the trail we went on a car ride that took us through a long tunnel, which I did not get a picture of. On our ride we saw some Big Horn Sheep crossing the rode. Lee then saw some babies up in the rocks. We saw these five and then later when we came back around we counted seven more Big Horn Sheep.

At the end of our journey we turned around at the Checkered-bored Square Rocks. These were real neat, you could see, well checkered-boreds in them. You can also see some snow along the side. I did not get the best picture of this because by this time my camera was dead!

We also went to Snow Canyon and because this post took so long to do I will have to work on that post later.

Doggy Door!

2009-03-06T20:05:00.000-08:00

Devin has been watching Shelby and Sammy go in and out through the doggy door the past few days. He has been pretty curious about it and we all knew that it was just a matter of time before we would find him crawling on out. Sure enough by the time I looked over the little guy was half way through the door! For more pictures go to G'ma and G'pa Fassler's site!

FYI: these are videos so just hit the play button!

When I told Ben about what happened all he said was that he missed Devin so much. Devin must be missing him as well because today Devin called Ben! Ben said that Devin hung up after a minute and so Ben called him back. Devin answered the phone by sliding it open. Devin was just chatting away to his daddy. He sure has been a chatter box the past few weeks. He's getting some words down pretty good. It's amazing the things they learn from just watching you, like how to answer the phone!

No baby was hurt during this stunt!

Vacation Part III: Devin's First

2009-03-02T16:02:00.000-08:00

Devin has had so many first it the past few days as you could imagine... His first plane ride, trip to Vegas including the Hoover Dam, to a Casino, and to a Nascar Race. His first walk with shoes and sandals; it took him a while to get use to them, but then he was a pro in no time! His first time out in the sun, his first skinned knee and his first stubbed toe! He is now wearing his cap and leaving it on his head. We had to practice this ahead of time so once he got into the sun he would leave it alone. One of Devin's new favorite things to do is to walk around outside. I'm glad that we are finally able to do so!

His first time camping and around a camp fire. The picture of Devin and my dad is one night by the fire, you can see them through the smoke. Devin's first time taking a shower with me in the public showers... yuck!

Devin also had his first sucker, he didn't know what to do with it, but then once he figured it out, he loved it! Devin is also doing this really cute thing where he tickles his feet, or mine, and says "tickle tickle." I wasn't sure where he got it from, but when I told Ben about it today he said that he does it to him all the time. I will try and get a video of that, but usually he stops as soon as he sees my phone. I'm sure there will be a lot more first so I will

keep you posted! Like his first visit to Grandma and Grandpa's!

For more pictures go to G'ma and G'Pa under linkage!

Vacation Part II: The Race

2009-03-02T15:18:00.001-08:00

For the main event... The race on Sunday was of course another good one. There were lots of cautions, because that's what the Las Vegas Motor Speedway brings. Kyle Busch ended up winning, who is originally from Las Vegas. During the race Lee, Dad and I or Mom sat on top of the camper which was located infield between turn 3 and 4. For the part of the track we couldn't see we had a big screen that we watched. Devin spent most of the race in the camper with (my) mom or with me. We would go walk around once and a while and he could see the loud cars going round. The pictures, with the exception of the one of Devin, are all taken from the top of the camper.

Vacation Part I: Getting There & More

2009-03-02T14:32:00.000-08:00

Hello from Utah! I am going to do a couple of posts to get you updated on our vacation. Devin and I left Cherokee on Tuesday and headed to Des Moines where we were able to spend a night with Lynnette, Kevin, Sophia and Derek! I saw some cute pictures of the boys on hillabolt.com if you want to navigate there and check them out. There is a link to them on the side, under my links! Devin was able to play outside for a little while for the first time this year. He didn't want anything to do with Derek's toys that you ride on, he was happy just following around Derek and Sophia. We didn't get to spend a lot of time there, but we are going to get to on our way home.

Wednesday we flew to Las Vegas. Devin slept the first hour and a half of the plane ride and the next hour and a half he was a very good boy. He started to get a little antsy towards the end and wanted down! Hopefully our flight home will go as well.

We caught up with mom and dad at the airport then headed to the race track which would be our home for the next few days. Thursday we went to the Hoover Dam and walked around for a little while. The picture up top are from the Dam taken on my phone. I think Devin enjoyed being outside and

watching all of the people.

The next day we traveled to Old Las Vegas. Grandpa took Devin as the rest of us went and gambled. I took $40 and was down to about $5 when I won and then I had $47! I played down to where I had my $40 back and I was done! I found a machine that I really enjoyed playing and didn't want to leave it, but I really had to go to the bathroom. So I got up and wandered until I found the restroom. When I got back to my machine a guy was sitting there. I walked around for about two minutes until he was done and went back to it. He won $110 on it! I had sat there and played on it for about 45 minutes and that's the machine I won my money back on. I knew that I didn't want to loose it because I could tell that it wanted to give me money. Oh well, at least I didn't loose anything. And yes, Devin is hanging out in a casino!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GINNIA!

2009-02-23T18:00:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Ginnia and her husband David

Kristina, Karissa, Ginnia & Holly

I was able to go after work for a little while on Saturday night and spend some much needed time with my girls! Also Ginnia informed us that her brother Justin is getting married. So congratulations Justine and Becca!

A few random things...

2009-02-17T19:30:00.000-08:00

Devin has been a little whinny lately which is very abnormal for him, he's been sleeping and pooing a lot and chewing on his finger... so can you guess what's going on? Devin has two teeth coming in! They are on the bottom, one on both side towards the back- OUCH! He has been handling it pretty good I think because I'm sure his mouth is pretty soar. I'm really not sure what to do for him though. He won't chew on anything I give him. Any suggestions?

It seems as if Logan and Devin both get teeth at the same time because Logan is getting some of his back teeth in as well and yes, surprisingly he's cranky too! Poor little boys :(

Hopefully Devin will have his new teeth in by Wednesday of next week (Feb 25th) because that is when we will be leaving on our vacation along with uncle Lee. We are going to Las Vegas and to Utah to see my parents! It will be a pretty long stay, until March 13th! We will start in Las Vegas where we will camp in the infield at the Vegas Raceway for the Nascar race. Then we will head up to Utah where hopefully we will get to relax and spend some quality time with my mom and dad. Watch for postings from our vacation. We won't have internet access until we get to Utah probably after the weekend.

This weekend I'm excite because my friend Ginnia is coming to town. It's their annual trip to Cherokee where we celebrate Xzavier's and Ginnia's birthday. I for once have Sunday off and Devin will be with his father, so I will get some time with my girls!

Hmm... Other than all that nothing else is new right now. I am applying for a few full time jobs so that I can have a more reliable source of income and to get Devin and I on some type of routine. It's hard though because I don't know what I want to do and there are not a whole lot of options in Cherokee for me. Most of what I'm finding is book keeping and accounting. Maybe I should have went to school for that! I'm sure some day I'll figure it out.

By the way... does anyone even look at our blogs?

2009-02-14T06:02:00.000-08:00

Y HAPPY VALENTINE'S

DAY EVERYONE! Y

2009-02-12T16:18:00.000-08:00

Time With Jurzee

2009-02-12T15:27:00.001-08:00

Jurzee was able to come and visit for a couple of days! So on Sunday Devin and I went to Vermillion so that they could play together. The two of them spent some brother/sister quality time together. They did a really good job playing together. Devin would steal a toy from Jurzee and she would just shrug and say, "that's ok, he can play with that." Jurzee has sharing down a lot better then Devin does. However, Devin would give toys back to her eventually, he's getting the idea. What do you expect from a 13 month old anyways?

On the drive back to Sioux Falls Jurzee was being a little model, she has some good poses. You can tell that she gets her picture taken quit a bit. Jurzee took some pictures during the ride and she took over 90 pictures! I think that she had a lot of fun with it.

13 Months old!

2009-02-04T18:43:00.000-08:00

Devin has been talking on the phone lately! He will pick up my phone, start hitting some numbers, put it to his ear and just start chatting away. Whoever he was talking to the other night he repeatedly told them "no." I really don't tell him no that much, but he really has the word down. Devin is also signing for us. He will do the sign for milk (opening and closing his fist) and he says milk! We are also working on the sign for more. He can do it, but I'm not sure if he really understands what it means yet.

Last week I was changing Devin's diaper. I never do it on the couch, so I don't know why I decided to do it on the couch that night. Anyways, his butt was a little red so I decided I

needed to go get the Desitin. When I came back into the room, Devin was in the same spot as when I had left. However, there was a puddle in the corner of the couch. Devin peed on the couch! He has never peed on me or anything before, but he decided he needed to break in mom's new couch! That's right I bought a new couch, thought that I could spare a little of my tax money before it all goes to bills.

Tonight I gave Devin some chocolate pudding, to say the least he loved it! I think that it

maybe his new favorite snack.

2009-01-25T01:12:00.000-08:00

Devin's preferred method of getting around now is walking! He getting so good at it because he practices! He will start by his toy box and take off, the second he falls he turns right around, crawls back and does it again. He will do this over and over and over! I think the other night he went for a good 45 minutes, he is so determined. It is so cute and entertaining to watch. He can make it all the way to the stove!

Devin still loves his books. He prefers to sit and look at his books over playing with toys. I wonder where he gets this from. He will turn the pages and just chatter away as if he was reading them.

The other day Logan came over for the day. The boys have so much fun together. The moment they see each other both of their faces light up. They follow each other from place to place, fighting over everything!

Look at me go!

2009-01-19T19:25:00.000-08:00

I have been trying to get a video up of Devin walking around, but I have not been successful. Anyways, Devin has been pretty brave lately. He will just take off from anywhere and can make it across the room! He still crawls for the most part, but he's on his way!

Devin's Birthday Party

2009-01-06T06:11:00.000-08:00

Devin had a perfect little party on Sunday. It was originally scheduled for Saturday afternoon, but instead we had a small ice storm... and boy was it icy! Devin, Ben, Grandma Teresa and Talen were able to make it from Vermillion. They said it was still very slick out, but they made it! Kim, Kyle, Emily, Logan and I were waiting at Kim's house for them and Great Grandma and Grandpa came as well! I hope that this doesn't happen to the little guy every year.

Devin opened his presents with the help of his cousins Talen, Emily and Logan!

It is no surprise that Devin absolutely LOVED when everyone sang Happy Birthday to him... look at that smile!

Mmmm... Ice Cream Cake!

Thank you everyone for the gifts and Birthday wishes! And to Kim and Kyle for letting us use their house!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEVIN LEROY HAYS!

2009-01-03T22:21:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure how to capture the past year. Devin has brought so much love and joy into our lives, Ben and I feel truly blessed. Devin was a fantastic baby! He slept through out the night (who could ask for more) I didn't hear him cry (really cry) until he was three months old! He was very easy going and very chill (for lack of a better word). He made it very easy on us. Thank you to everyone for helping us out as a family, it hasn't been easy, but we are lucky that we have such great families that are there for us.

Now about our little man. I just really didn't understand how quickly babies grow and develop. He seems to have a strong grasp on language and mimicking our sounds. I remember saying 'mom mom mom' repeatedly to him thinking in a couple of months he'd be ale to maybe make a MMM sound... who knew it would only take a week when he was just 6 months old! And he

understood that I was mom and uses the word correctly. It didn't take him too long then to learn dad either. Just today Ben was telling me how Devin was in the cupboard where his food is kept. Ben said 'no no Devin you need to close the door'. Then Ben told him to stop and to shut the door... Devin looks up at Ben and says NO! Ben was like our son told me NO! He just looked at me and said no!

I am starting to teach him a few signs I'm hoping he will pick it up just as easily as he picks up everything else. You just need to show him once how something works and he has it down. Devin prefers books over toys and loves to explore and is very curious and attentive to his surroundings. His favorite song is the ABC's and his favorite book it Dr. Suess's ABCs. He loves the movie Uncle Kevin gave him of it. He likes Spongbob over any other cartoon. Devin prefers his Smartville Train Station for toys. It took him no time at all to figure out how to put the animals in the spot where they go and then push on them to get them to talk and make sounds. As I said before Devin loves to dance! Any tune that is played he just starts moving it is sooo cute! He also loves his bath time. He loves the water just like his mom. Ben and I will have to get him to the Wellness Center sometime soon and see how he does.

As for walking, we thought that since he was standing at five weeks he'd be an early walker, but he is taking his time, which is just fine. Last week when my mother was in town we were sitting a few feet apart trying to get him to walk back and forth between us. The second one of us would let go of him he would throw himself to the ground. He didn't want to walk, I don't know if he was scared or what. After about ten minutes of trying to get him to walk back and forth he started crawling back and forth. He would go to my mom and put his head in her lap then turn around, do it to me then go back. He did this for about five minutes... It was great, we were laughing so hard. Then he started throwing him self on the ground as if he was falling down. Not hard just playful... he's such a little character!

Then on Tuesday I tried to get Devin to walk again. Is was having him walk back and forth between me and the couch. He did great, you could tell that he wanted to do it. At first he would just lean forward and then fall, but then he would take a few steps. There was time when he got four good steps in! He keeps his hands in fist and keeps them up at his shoulders and just goes. He wants to walk now so there's no stopping him... Im sure in a weeks time he'll be a pro.

We were suppose to have his Birthday party on Saturday, however, because of the ice we received today we weren't able to. We are going to have one for him tomorrow at noon instead. I was really looking forward to having Ben and my family all together and have all the kids there at once. It would have been a lot of fun for every one. Hopefully this won't happen to the little man every year. I will keep you posted on his Birthday party... and I will have my camera!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2009-01-02T16:39:00.000-08:00

Devin's First Christmas

2008-12-29T21:47:00.000-08:00

Devin's first Christmas seemed to go very well. We did not get to go to the Fassler and Goodburn family Christmas in Des Moines due to the wonderful weather we had. However, most of us were able to get together. On Wednesday, Christmas Eve, Ben came to Cherokee and we, along with my parents and Grandpa and Grandma Goodburn went to Kim's house. My dad was able to get pictures of Devin opening his presents, which is a great thing because I forgot my camera for the entire holiday. S,o I am waiting for pictures from Grandpa Steve. Ben, Devin and I then left to go to Vermillion where we went to Ben's mom's house for Christmas with his family. The boys and Talen were all there to open their presents. Grandma Teresa gave him a Zebra he can bounce on and dance to, which he loves!

The next day we went to the Thompson family Christmas where there were many cousins for Devin to play with. Riley was able to join us and opened his presents with Devin on Christmas day. (and I didn't get any pictures :( )

Then on Saturday before I had to go back to work we went to my Grandma's house for lunch. Devin was well behaved, as always through the Holiday. It was good to see almost everyone. Thank you for everyone who gave Devin all of his wonderful toy and to Grandpa Steve for the toy box he made to store all the toys in! Devin's things are definitely taking over the living room.

Saturday we are celebrating Devin's First Birthday! It will be at 3:30 at Kim's house, so if you are a reader of this blog, then you are welcome to come!

2008-12-21T20:28:00.000-08:00

Devin and I were able to go spend a few days with papa this past week. We left before the storm and were snowed in for a few days, which was just fine with all of us. Ben and I worked on the trailer and it is ready to go! Ben worked hard on the bathroom which looks amazing! I wish I had a bathroom like that. We did some touch up paint and put up trim and now we just need to get rid of the thing... and soon! Other then that we didn't really do much just spend some much needed time together. We tried to get Devin to walk, but he is just not interested. He is capable of walking and stands on his own quit a bit, but as soon as he realizes what he's doing, he will sit down real quick. We are in no hurry for him to walk, he gets around just fine. That's probably what he thinks too.

I can't wait to see everyone for the Holiday, I'm ready for Christmas to be here already!

BUSTED!

2008-12-12T07:20:00.000-08:00

Devin is hiding behind the chair with the kleenex box... I eventually heard the sound of them being pulled out of the box. Wipes and Kleenex are not safe!

So Smart!

2008-12-10T09:14:00.000-08:00

Christmas Picture

2008-12-08T14:29:00.000-08:00

KISSES!

2008-12-06T19:39:00.000-08:00

I went to Vermillion other day and Ben told me that Devin had been giving him kisses. He tried a few times and Devin wasn't interested. A while later Ben asked Devin for a kiss, sure enough Devin puckered up his tiny little lips and leaned forward to meet daddy's! Then I tried it and he gave me a kiss too! The best though was a few days later, I was sitting on the couch and Devin walks up to me, puckers up and leans into me for a kiss. I didn't even ask! Awe, talk about knowing how to make momma tear up.

My 'lil Puppy!?!

2008-12-01T03:06:00.000-08:00

I always joke about how Devin is my little puppy because some of the things he does such as beg for food, follow me around the house (at my feet), and cuddle up on my lap. But the other day takes the cake! I went down stares looking for something and when I came up stares I couldn't find Devin. After looking around for a minute I saw the door on Sydney's kennel open. Sure enough Devin had crawled into it. I took him out and he went right back in, shutting the door behind him. So i let him play for a little while and he kept opening and closing the door, it was very entertaining.

This video I took with my phone and I can't rotate it without buying a program... I'll just have to remember to take videos the other way with my phone. Also I added a video to an earlier post- Check it out!

Thanksgiving

2008-12-01T01:13:00.000-08:00

I hope that all of you had a great Thanksgiving!

Devin was the only one of us who was able to have an actual Thanksgiving with great food and family. Both Ben and I had to work over night Wednesday night so Devin was able to spend the night with Grandma Teresa. On Thursday Devin went to Ben's Aunt Brenda's house, where he became her new best friend. Devin was able to eat mashed potatoes, ham and other Thanksgiving favorites. I didn't get a lot of details, but I'm sure Devin had fun playing with all of the kids. Thanks Grandma Teresa!

I did get to eat Thanksgiving diner at Kim's house. I stopped at the Robinson Thanksgiving on my way to work. It was good the first time anyways. I'll spare you the details, but about 11:30 Thursday night I had some kind of flu or food poisoning. It was not a good night for me. By Friday evening though everything was just fine... it was strange.

On Thanksgiving I was at work all day, but we had our Goodburn Thanksgiving on Saturday. The DLD crew (Derek, Logan & Devin) were everywhere and keeping everyone entertained. Everyone is walking, except for Devin. However both Ben and Teresa said that he was standing on his own for a while. Then he would realize what he was doing and sit down, not fall down though. It is going to be very soon, I'm sure by Christmas the three of them will be running everywhere!

Also, it was great to see Aunt Pam who came to visit us from Texas!

I was not able to... borrow (ok steal) any pictures of Devin and the boys from Kevin, but he did send me one of Saturday night of Aunt Lynnette reading to Sophia and Devin. They both sure love their books!

Christmas is Getting Closer

2008-11-25T12:10:00.001-08:00

I wanted to share with everyone what I am getting for Devin, I think, for Christmas;

http://www.vtechuk.com/smartville/

I ordered him all but one of the sets, I'm sure by his Birthday he will have it all, I'm so excited about it! Probably more then he will be. I like being Santa makes Christmas more exciting.

Does anyone have any advice, tips or suggestions for me about Devin's Birthday and Christmas? The only thing I have been told, on several occasions, is not to wrap his Birthday presents in Christmas paper! I guess that is a bid no-no.

Thanks for a Great Time!

2008-11-25T11:43:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone- Yes, it has been a while, a pretty busy while.

For my birthday Lee took me to a Nine Inch Nails concert last Thursday night. After traveling to Des Moines we headed to Cedar Rapids to the US Cellular Arena. It was quit small, but that's good for a concert. I made it to the front and fought to keep my place through out most of the concert. The last few songs I gave up my spot so that I could go and watch from afar. They put on an incredible show which was very impressive.

I had a lot of fun! Thanks Lee!

During our trip to Des Moines we were able to spend a few nights with Lynnette, Kevin, Sophia and Derek! It sure is amazing how much a little man can change in two months. Derek looked much more grown up, his face looks a little more trim, probablly from all that walking and his new hair cut makes him look like a big boy!

Sophia is a chatter box who's vocabulary and word usage is way beyond her age. You can tell that Denise really works with the two of them, they sure are smart. Everyone needs a Denise!

I want to thank Lynnette and especially Uncle Kevin for watching Devin on Thurseday night. Everyone, except The Hillabolts, know that Devin sleeps through the night, right... WRONG! Poor Uncle Kevin was up from 1- 3:30am with Devin! I came home at about 3:30 am to take care of the little man and before we even hit the bed, he was out!

On Saturday we headed home for Logan's first Birthday party! Devin and I left at about 9am. By 9:45 I was on the phone with Kim crying that I was going to turn around. It helped to talk to her because it got my mind off of what was really going on. I drove right into a snow storm on the interstate! There were cars and semis in the ditch all around us. It was nice when people slowed down to about 40 mph, I felt much better. After 4 1/2 hours of driving (the trip usually takes 3 hours) we made it to Logan's party!

There were a lot of people at the party, some I had never met. There was lots of good food to eat and a bunch of kids playing. Devin and I shared some cake and ice cream and then we helped open all of Logan's toys. I don't think he got any clothes, just LOTS of toys!

It was all lots of fun! Thanks Again!

HAPPY FIRST BIRTHDAY LOGAN!

2008-11-21T18:58:00.000-08:00

Dancing, Bath Time & Lady Bugs

2008-11-17T13:40:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to share with you three of Devin's favorite things. First, he loves to dance! We are not sure where this came from, but about a month or two ago Devin all of a sudden started dancing to every song he heard. It's so cute, he simply sways back and fourth or moves his head up and down. His favorite thing is to go to either his Trainstation or his toy food dish and turn on the ABC's. He's a pro at it.

His next favorite thing is his bath time. From the second you put him in until you take him out he will sit there, cheesing out, hitting the water as hard as he can. He's a splasher and by the end of his bath, we are both soaked as well as the entire bathroom. It's so cute though to watch him splash and there is no telling him not too, so I just watch with a smile.

The last of Devin's favorite things are those beetle things that look like lady bugs. All I will say is that they are his favorite snack. YUCK!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!

2008-11-09T17:02:00.000-08:00

Thank you everyone for your Birthday wishes! Especially to Lynnette and Sophia for singing me Happy Birthday!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PAPA!

2008-11-06T11:11:00.000-08:00

For My Sisters

2008-11-05T17:48:00.001-08:00

It's not all the time you and your two older sisters are all pregnant, with boys, due 6 weeks apart. It may not all have been planned by us, but obviously someone up there knew what He was doing. It has not been an easy past year and a half for me, however, having my sisters there whenever I have needed them has been an enormous help! From the random phone calls with urgent questions to helping babyset Mr. Devin in times of need. Either way Thank You both; Kim and Lynnette for everything you have done for me. This is the greatest experience of my life and I'm so glad that the two of you are there to share it with me!

Just to add we would also like to thank Uncle Kyle for being a great landlord and for your baby-setting services and to our photographer Uncle Kevin!

Happy 10 Months!

2008-11-04T18:04:00.003-08:00

That's right, Devin is 10 months today, a day that is going to go down in history. Two more months and he will be a year old, where does the time go?

Ben took Devin to his 9 month Doctor's appointment on Friday (yes, a month late). He's not sure on the exact weight, but his guess was 20.5 lbs. He's a very healthy little man!

During his appointment he was given two shots. One was the flu shot and it has not had a good effect on him. On Friday Ben said he was a little groggy and not quite right. Since then he has had very messy diapers and a lot of them, but he is his cheery self and it's not slowing him down at all. For babies first flu shot, they are given half at one time and then the other half after four weeks. So, he still has one more to go. Good thing he's such a trooper.

This picture was taken by his uncle Kevin, thanks!

2008-11-04T18:04:00.001-08:00

Jurzee's Visit

2008-11-04T17:40:00.000-08:00

Devin did not go out for Halloween this year, but he was able to do something even better... Devin's sister Jurzee came and spent the night with him! That's right Ben spent two days with Devin and Jurzee. He said that it went very well and he can't wait to do it again!

The last stop for the three of them was to the park. I'm not sure what Devin was doing at this time, but Jurzee sure had a good time. I gave my camera to Ben and he actually used it.

Thanks for coming and visiting Jurzee!

DEVIN'S FIRST HALLOWEEN!

2008-11-01T14:12:00.000-07:00

Getting Updated

2008-11-01T13:22:00.000-07:00

Many of you have been waiting for this, sorry about the wait...

Devin will be 10 months on November 4th already, I can't believe how quickly time goes by. Although Devin is the youngest out of Cousins Cullen (15 mo) , Derek (13 mo) and Logan (11 mo) , he is bigger than all, except of course Derek. Devin is very mobile with his unique army crawl and he is pulling himself up on everything. He walks well as long as he gets help with his balance. It won't be long until he is walking on his own!

I recently graduated from the University of South Dakota with a B.S. in Criminal Justice & Political Science. I plan to continue my education beginning in January when I will begin working on my Master's in Education Administration. I am currently working at the YES Center in Cherokee, IA, which is NW Iowa's Juvenile Detention Center. I really enjoy the work that I do and working with the Clients. Recently I began substitute teaching here in Cherokee at Washington High School. It is a little weird to say the least, considering that this was my High School. So far I like it and I know that it is great experience!

Ben is still in Vermillion for now working at SAPA in Yankton. He is looking and applying for jobs here in Cherokee so hopefully he will be joining his family soon! We are also working on selling our mobile home in Vermillion, his motor cycle and hopefully his boat (he just doesn't know it yet)... any interest?

Anyways I hope you enjoy our blog space and watching the milestones our little Devin accomplishes daily.