The Williams Family

It's been a long time!

2011-01-09T14:28:00.000-08:00

North Pole Express

I apologize that it has been so long, but you know how it is. Life gets busy. Things have been just that with the William's Family and we are looking forward to a new year. Aiden continues to grow and mature. He amazes me everyday...doing little things for himself and talking more. I will try and keep this more up to date this year- but for now, here are a few pics.

Summer Fun

2010-06-19T13:34:00.001-07:00

We enjoyed the warm weather, finally! Aiden loves playing in the water and I love watching him do it.

Puddin' Face

2010-06-19T13:25:00.000-07:00

He couldn't get enough!

Valenitne's Day Weekend

2010-02-15T08:23:00.001-08:00

The weekend started off with picking my brother Blake up from the Airport. He finished his Master's program in Germany and has come home (to the states) for good. It was so good to see him and good to have him home. I have missed him terribly and feel whole again just knowing he is back home. We went to dinner at the Bayou, waited 30 minutes and had crappy service but the beer and food was still good, as it always is.

Aiden got some new cars and some candy for Valintine's Day. He didn't waste time eating the candy. It was candy and chocolate for breakfast. Not the healthiest but what are you gonna do? He enjoyed every minute of it. He also got a cow that poops candy. Once he figured it out he looks at the toy and then looks at me and says, "it poops!" We also made Valentine cookies and shared them with friends and family.

It is now Monday morning and the weekend is settleing down. My mom and brother are getting ready to leave and Aiden is running around the house like a crazy caveman, as usual. I hope everyone had a good weekend too.

Christmas

2010-01-10T17:30:00.000-08:00

This Christmas was just like any other Christmas, with the exception of my brother Blake not being here and Aiden being one year older. That meant Aiden was actually excited for his toys this year, unlike last year where he was too young to really understand the concept. It also meant that Blake wasn't there, which in turn meant, we were one man short for Settler's. Aiden woke up way too early, naturally, because that is what he does at my Mom's. So he stayed in another room until us adults were ready to wake up. When we finally did and showed Aiden all the toys and presents he ran out of the room screaming. I think the giant monkey scared him...just a little. He quickly got over it though, tore the monkey out of the fire engine and proceeded to get into the fire engine, where he remained for the rest of the morning. Picture
with monkey....in the fire engine. Picture with Wall-E...in the fire engine. Breakfast and lunch...in the fire engine. He loves that thing. Even still. He rides all around the house in it. We also had the opportunity to visit many family members. Visited with my Dad and Roberta and her son Cody and his wife Ashley and their son Spencer. We also drove to Grand Junction to visit my family there. I love Christmas...the only thing missing was my brother. Hopefully next year will be a different story.

Hogle Zoo Lights

2009-12-20T12:13:00.000-08:00

We had such a fun night as a family. My mom came up for a visit and we were lucky to have my brother Cameron come along too. We started the night with a fresh and tasty meal at Buca di Beppo's. Love that place. If you haven't been you should go. We then ventured the Hogle Zoo for some lights. Fortunately for us, it wasn't too cold outside and we walked around looking at all the lights. Aiden loved it, which was the most important thing. I enjoyed him and spending time with my family.

Getting Ready For Christmas!

2009-12-20T12:08:00.000-08:00

I apologize that it has taken so long for an updated post, however, as always the month of December has been crazy busy. Here are some pics of Aiden helping out with decorating the tree. Even though he doesn't quit understand the concept of Christmas yet, he still loved it- and we enjoyed it too.

Me and my crazy projects!

2009-11-29T16:38:00.000-08:00

I have been looking/wanting an advent calendar for a long time. I was looking on-line and couldn't find one that I really liked but I did find some ideas and decided to just make one myself. It took me about two days to make but I absolutely love it!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-29T16:34:00.003-08:00

I hope everyone had a great and happy Thanksgiving. We spent the day at Barb's and enjoyed family and some really good food.

I believe the term is "Twi-Hard"

2009-11-25T08:11:00.001-08:00

I was getting my hair cut las Friday and my hairdresser tells me that she went to see the new addition to the Twilight saga "New Moon" last night. That seems normal considering that a lot of people did go and see it the night before...however, we are talking about the movie and the girl next to us says that she went and saw the movie twice (yes...two times) last night. My hairdresser proceeds to tell her that she was sooooo lucky to see it twice and then looks at me and says "she is a die hard." I then said, "I believe the term is "Twi-Hard." I can't say much about it considering I have been a little obssessed since seeing the movie then reading all four books in a period of about three weeks and then purchasing tickets for New Moon about three months in advance. I did go and see the movie on Friday and grinned and beared the crowds. In the end of it all I thought it was worth it and worth the wait.

Ode to my Brother Blake

2009-11-24T06:04:00.000-08:00

While in Florida and shopping in a supermarket called publix, I came across a bottle of shiraz called the Tall Horse that was from South Africa. Without hesitation I bought the bottle thinking of only one person....my brother Blake. Jesse and I finished the bottle last night and it was good. I only wished that my brother were around to share it with us, however, he is doing great things in the land of Africa. My ode is nothing great....I am no Edgar Allan Poe by any means.

He hasn't been home since last Christmas
By now I am really missing him.

He lives in Port Elizabeth
but travels the whole continent.

He is working really hard in school
learning to save the world in crisis.

I hope he knows how much I love him
and how proud I am to call him my brother.

Flori-duh!

2009-11-21T14:00:00.000-08:00

Sunset in Islamarada

Dinner at Marker 88

Sunny Florida

Everglades National Park

Aiden at the beach- and loving every minute!

Loving the water and waves.

So...I was contemplating the story of our trip and I really don't know where to start. There was so much going on all at once that it is hard to begin, but I guess starting at the beginning is the best so here goes. We woke up in the morning with enough time to get to the airport. Aiden was a little cranky but that is usual for him these days. We parked and waited for the shuttle. Aiden was doing okay at this point, however, the minute we got on the shuttle he freaked out. Screamed and kicked and sprawled himself on the ground. Going through security wasn't any easier. He didn't want to do it and made himself known. By the time we got the gate I needed a drink...and I am not talking soda. The plane ride started off okay but Aiden showed his true colors and got antsy about 15 minutes into the flight. On the seat, off the seat...on the seat, off the seat. It took a lot of energy trying to keep him entertained. He did not want to be in the seat belt and fortunately most of the flights the attendants were okay with that. On the flight from Atlanta to West Palm Beach there was a little girl sitting behind us that was learning to talk but she definately knew the word Florida except she said it like Flori-duh. And...she said it about thirty times before we got off the plane. Exhausted, we found the shuttle to the rental car place, somehow fit into the too small Saturn Vue and found our way to the hotel. The following day we drove around looking for Jesse's old house and elementary school. We also stopped at the beach and had a great time. Aiden loved it! He didn't have a swimming suit on but that didn't stop him. He went all in and couldn't get enough. That night we had Charlie's famous spaghetti and meatballs at Barb's sister's house. On the third day we took Aiden back to the beach but took him in his swimming suit. It was a little cold and windy so we didn't stay long. We had dinner at Outback with Barb's family....by this time I am feeling exhausted. We stayed in a suit that had two bedrooms but the bed wasn't big enough for Jesse, myself and Aiden so Aiden and I slept in the bed and Jesse slept on the hide-a-bed in the living room. Now...I don't know about you...but there is reason the we do not let Aiden sleep in our bed. He is a wild sleeper. He was kicking me, punching me, rolling over me and pretty much just trying to sleep in the same space that I was. We drove down to the Everglades National Park...got out...saw an alligator...got back in the car and drove back to our hotel. Oh wait, we did stop and get a cuban sandwich- yummm. We also took a drive to the Keys and had the wonderful opportunity to see the sun set during dinner. It was amazingly beautiful. By the time we headed home we were ready. Except for maybe Ben...He and Jesse went fishing out of Key Largo and he wanted to stay an extra day to go again. After a long two plane rides back home, we made it. Tired and exhausted but thankful that we had the opportunity to go.

For the Love of Fall

2009-11-21T13:52:00.000-08:00

I was out raking leaves and cleaning up for the winter when a great photo opportunity arose. Aiden was playing around and was in a good mood so I took advantage of the moment and here is how it turned out.

Halloween Party

2009-11-01T12:39:00.001-08:00

This picture is about as good as it gets. Too many little
ones wanting their moms. Aiden sure is hammin' it
up though.

Finished pumpkins

Roger, Analise, and Kayla

Ben, Hannah, and Rayna

Every year we have friends and family over for Halloween. This year wasn't any different other than the kids are getting older...and louder. We tried getting all of them together for a picture and that did not work out. I did get some though. We had a good night of fun, trick-or-treating, and some good food. Thanks to all our friends for coming!

The Costume

2009-11-01T12:23:00.000-08:00

So last year was a struggle getting Aiden to wear his halloween costume but he finally gave in and wore it. NOT this year. I was working up a sweat just getting the thing on and once I did get it on he screamed and cried and screamed some more. Instead of being upset about it, I just took it for what it was and captured the moment. Jesse actually got some video of it. We were outside and some of our neighbors were coming outside to see if everything was okay. He's still cute, isn't he? Maybe next year we will have success...

Pumpkins

2009-11-01T12:05:00.000-08:00

On Friday we carved some pumpkins. We contemplated putting Aiden to bed before we started, not knowing how he would act. He is two and curious about everything. As you can see, we decided to include him in the holiday tradition and he loved it. We had a really good time and I am glad it was something we could do as a family.

Haunted Hallow

2009-10-17T13:40:00.001-07:00

The last time I ventured into a haunted house of any sorts I was in high school. Knowing that, you can imagine that experience was not the best one for me. I was with two of my friends and we screamed so much and so loud that my throat hurt for a week. I was seriously traumatized. When my teammates suggested we all go to the haunted hallow I was not thrilled but I thought that maybe since it's been 12 years later I might be able to handle it. I actually did okay. There were some parts that made me jump but I mostly laughed and had a really good time. The margaritas before might have helped a little and the fact that Natalie let me hold onto her arm the whole time might have had something to do with it as well. Maybe I will go next year.

Wellness Festival, Jackson Hole, WY.

2009-10-17T13:30:00.000-07:00

The trip was suppose to include my grandma, however, due to a family emergency, she was not able to make it. My mom decided she still wanted to go and I was happy for it. I desperately needed some time away and I was excited to spend some time with my mom. The trip up was good. We did run into some snow and it actually snowed most of the time we were there but fortunately we were inside most of the time. The wellness festival was awesome and I learned a lot. I think my mom did too. I felt like they presenters were talking directly to her. We had dinner at a couple of nice restaurants and had breakfast at the Bunnery the morning that we left. Yummmmm. It was a great time.

Snowbird

2009-09-05T09:57:00.000-07:00

So....my mom calls me on Tuesday and says, "what are you doing on friday?" It just so happens that I wasn't doing anything so I said "nothing, why?" She asks me if Aiden and I would like to for a hike? Well, yeah, that sounds like fun. What do you have in mind, mom? She then proceeds to tell me that she wants to take the Tram to the top of Snowbird and hike back down. Ummmm.....hmmmm.....let me think about this one. Just me and mom that sounds do-able. With a two year old....I am not so sure. I agree to it anyway. She really wants to go (and smell the roses) and says that if he is cranky we will just take the tram back down. So we meet up, take the drive up the canyon to Snowbird, buy our tram tickets and take the nine minute ride up snowbird mountain. By now, you are all thinking that we should have gotten back on the tram and taken the ride back down the mountain, but alas, we did not. We started to descend at about 11:15 am. Aiden started out walking and grandma gave him some dried fruit to eat on the way down, trying to keep him occupied. Now, you wouldn't think much of this except that everytime Aiden ate a piece of the fruit he had to sit down to do it. Great! We will make it down the mountain just in time for dinner. We finally make it down a couple of switchbacks and decided to stop to eat some lunch. On we went, tried a couple of things. Make shifting a hammock for Aiden to sit in (where at one point he catapulted him out of it and face first into the dirt) carrying him on the hip and finally on top of our shoulders- which ended up working the best. Half way down there was a thunder storm and some rain, which is exactly where you want to be when that comes around. I told my mom to tell me if my hair starts to stand up and whatever we do, do not stand under a tree. We took a wrong turn twice, maybe three times but finally made it down the mountain. By the time we got down the mountain and back to the lodge I felt like I was going to just kill over. My toes hurt, I have a huge blister, and every muscle in my body aches....BUT....I loved it. I loved spending the time with my mom and with Aiden.

Marshmallow

2009-09-05T09:49:00.001-07:00

While visiting Granpa Ellis and Grandma Cindi, Aiden got to roast marshmallows and try out the smore's. As you can see, he really enjoyed it. He was reluctant with the fire at first but got use to it eventually. He also found that the dogs enjoyed the marshmallows too and loved sneaking a few to them. Thanks bud for being so generous!

Aqua Baby

2009-09-05T09:38:00.001-07:00

The Aquatic Center in Clearfield is absolutely amazing for kids. It's like a playground in water and Aiden loved it. We were only there for about an hour but he had a blast and wasn't afraid to try anything.

Jackson Hole

2009-08-14T12:58:00.000-07:00

Grand Tetons

Canoe-ing on Jackson Lake

Hotel we stayed at. The historic Wort Hotel

Me and Jess hiking at Jenny Lake

For my birthday, Jesse took me on a surprise trip. I had no idea where we were going until we actually drove part of the way there and he finally told me. Jackson Hole was amazing, aside from all the other tourists. It was like Disneyland only Mickey Mouse was not there to greet us. We spent three days there and did some hiking around the Grand Tetons. We also rented a canoe and paddled out on one of the lakes. It was relaxing and we caught up on some movies and ate some really good food too.

Aiden's 2nd Birthday

2009-08-14T12:55:00.000-07:00

I made this cake- isn't it awesome? I love it.

I don't have too many pictures for this because my camera was doing weird things. I ended loosing all the pictures that I had and was pretty upset about it. All those pictures gone. I did get some from Barb so I hope you enjoy. Aiden is now two. His birthday party was a blast! Just family and close friends but Aiden loved it.

Hogle Zoo

2009-06-13T12:20:00.001-07:00

Aiden in the turtle shell. I think this was his favorite part.
He didn't want to leave.

Grandma and Aiden.

Watching the Elephants

Watching the Tiger.

More Turtle shell

Riding the carousel

Aiden and Mom

Train ride.

We took advantage of the sunshine yesterday and hauled Aiden to the Zoo. When I say we, I actually mean me and my mom. She was watching him during the week and we met up at the zoo. Aiden had a blast but got a little cranky towards the end. I think he was just tired because I put him in the car to go home and he was asleep before we even left the parking lot. It was pretty cute.

This Old House

2009-06-13T12:17:00.000-07:00

If some of you are wondering what I have been up to lately, well, this is it. I have spent countless hours weeding, raking, and planting all Spring long. I know a lot of people are hating this rainy weather but it is just an excuse for me to actually rest- ha! In all seriousness though, it has been an up hill climb and I feel so good that it is almost finished. We still need to finish putting down the rest of the wood chips.

5K Walk/Run

2009-06-13T12:14:00.001-07:00

Time it took to walk/run the 5K.

Our team name- love it!

Me and some of the girls that I work with.

Here are some pics from the 5K I did last May- sorry it's so late.

Aiden's New Room

2009-06-13T12:03:00.001-07:00

The full effect! Well- almost.

New twin bed. Aiden sleeps like a crazy child so
we have the safety net to keep him from rolling off.

This toybox was built by my father for me and my
brothers when we were younger. It was originally
white and then blue and now it is green. Aiden
loves it. I always catch him sitting in it.

This was my idea. I have been collecting "A's" for
about two years and I finally decided it was time
to put it all together. What do you think?

Peg board totally rocks! I found the file holders
on the container store website.

Since the last post Aiden has transitioned into a "big boy bed" and new room. I have spent numerous hours putting this room together and working on the art that is on the walls. I absoulutely love it! I was so excited for Aiden to see it and when he did he said "WOW!" He is still too young to really grasp what his room is, but some day I think he will grow to love it.

The Crib Fiasco!

2009-05-11T06:23:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was an interesting one. I did the 5K walk in downtown Salt Lake for breast cancer awareness and Jesse had to work so my Mom offered to take Aiden for the weekend. Jesse met her on Thursday and by Thursday afternoon she called me..."Houston, we have a problem." Those were her exact words to me and then later explained that she had put Aiden down for a nap when he so casually swung his leg up and over the pack and play and was out, walking down the hallway with the biggest smile on his face. "What should I do?" She asks. "I told her I really didn't know what to do. We had never had this problem with Aiden before. Later, she told me that she sat in there with him until he fell asleep BUT- at 6:00 am in the morning he was up and out! So this is where it gets really good. Aiden came home Sunday night. At about 7:30 and a lot of running around the house we decided it was time for bed. We put him in his crib and tucked him in and said "night, night" like we always do. Settled into the couch and THUD! We sat and waited for him to come running down the hallway but there was nothing. After a moment of said nothing we decided to go and check on him. There he was, sitting on his little chair at his little table playing with his toys, just as content as can be. It took us an hour and a half to finally get him settled in and even then we found him asleep on the floor covered in clothes that he had pulled out from his cubby. Jesse put him back in bed and I settled into bed for some reading. An hour in and another THUD! I ran into his room and there he was, on the floor and disoriented. I picked him up and put him back into bed. He settled back in a went back to sleep. So I went back to my reading...but started thinking...he is going to fall out of his bed again I just know it. So I tried tying a blanket to both sides to try to hold him in but Jesse pointed out that that wasn't very safe so I took it down. I was in bed again and worrying abou it thinking that if he falls out of bed again it is going to scare him and me. So I went back in the room, layed the blanket on the floor and put him on the floor too. That is where Aiden slept for the night- quite soundly. I, on the other hand, did not sleep at all. I was up worrying all night, I guess that is what mom's are for.

Easter

2009-04-21T18:47:00.000-07:00

Aiden loved the bubbles!

Aiden and Riley

Just like every other year for Easter we spent the holiday in Price at my Mom's. She has an annual Easter Egg Hunt and all of the kids gather for their money and treats. The adults gather too but mostly for the food. I made my yummy carrot cake and it did not last 30 minutes. My mom didn't even get a piece.

This was Aiden's 2nd Easter and he was pretty excited with all of the goodies that he got. He also got to play with his two cousins from Colorado. He liked it so much that he was trying to keep up and fell head first into a rock. At first he had a dent in his head and then it popped out into a goose egg. He was not a happy camper after that- but who could blame him. I felt so bad and we ended up leaving a little early. But we did have a good time and loved seeing all of the family.

Creativity!

2009-03-21T12:03:00.000-07:00

I made this cake for a girl that I work with. She is having a baby so we threw her a baby shower and I made the cake. In case you were wondering it was a jungle theme.

I made this cake for my brother Cameron's 22nd birthday. He like legos in case you didn't get it.

Any one who knows me, knows that I am a little creative. If there is something that I can do that shows my creative side than I am doing it. The last couple of weeks I have made a few cakes that I have loved and thought I would share them. I hope you enjoy.

The Shirt from Germany

2009-03-21T11:52:00.000-07:00

The shirt that Aiden is wearing in this picture was a gift for his 1st (yes, really) birthday. He is so weird about certain clothing that I can never get him to wear so I thought I better get it on him and take some pictures before he grows out of it. It is so cute and I am told that children in Germany wear them all the time. Thank you Uncle Blake and Anna for being so thoughtful.

Spring is in the Air!

2009-03-21T11:46:00.000-07:00

Uncle Cam jumping off the swing. Boys will always be boys.

While visiting family in Price, we all took a trip to the park to enjoy the sunshine and warmth. I love the beginning of Spring and all the fresh smells that it brings with it. This particular day was quit enjoyable. Aiden had so much fun on the toys and I think had more fun exploring around the toys. He is quit the little investigator, always interested in how things work. He is like his Uncle Cam and Uncle Blake when it comes to things like that.

Discovery Gateway

2009-02-16T12:47:00.000-08:00

Last Friday, Jesse and I took Aiden to the Discovery Gateway. Aiden had such a great time and we also had a lot of fun. They have some really cool toys and things for kids to do. I think Aiden liked the water works the most. He was soaked from head to toe and didn't even care. Here are a few pictures that we took.

First Accident

2009-02-07T12:58:00.000-08:00

I have always been told that boys will be boys and there will be scrapes and bruises but nothing prepares you for what happened one Sunday night. Aiden was playing in his room and being very quiet. When I went to check on him I found him sitting on top of his toy box playing with some stuffed animals. When he looked up and saw me watching him he got excited, stood up and fell over the side. Now, this is a daily occurance for him; falling, hitting into things, so I didn't think much of it until I went to pick him up. There was blood everywhere and thank goodness that Jesse was home because I was not calm. We got the bleeding to stop but thought we should take him to a doctor so we did and the result was one staple. I was a mess the whole time and Jesse was a rock. He had to tell me to take a deep breath more than once. Aiden is fine and doing well. The staple has been removed and things are back to normal.

Snow fun

2009-01-03T10:18:00.001-08:00

Grandma and Aiden

Aiden did not like the snow or his coat or his boots.

Mom and Aiden- before the snow.

Putting the snow pants on. Way too much work.

One of the things that Aiden got for Christmas this year was snow clothes. I was so excited to get him all dressed up and take him out in the snow. The task wasn't easy and Aiden did not go quietly. It took me 15 minutes just to get him into the snow pants and another 30 to get his boots on- okay maybe not that long but it seemed like it. So we finally get him outside and he is throwing a fit. I put him in the snow and he went stiff as a board. His face fell right into the snow and that made the situation even worse. My mom took his coat off- because who knows what was bothering him and walked him around the yard. It was fun to get some pictures even though Aiden didn't really enjoy it.

Christmas 2008!

2009-01-03T10:05:00.000-08:00

Uncle Cam's head is way too big for that hat!

Aiden on the rocking horse that Grandpa made.

Butler Family: Blake, Cam, Jake,
Ashley, Cody Jesse, Aiden, Roberta, Larry
and Amanda

Aiden eating breakfast- what a cheese.

The Fam-Jesse, Ellis, Blake, Amanda, Aiden, Cindi and Cam

Aiden with his toys from Blake and Anna

he loves them!

Ellis Christmas morning.

Aiden and Jesse opening presents!

Aiden and Grandma waking up Christmas morning.

For Christmas this year my brother Blake flew in from Germany and we got to spend some time with him over the Christmas holiday. We had a great time in Price playing games, eating good food and spending time with family. This was Aiden's second Christmas and I think still, he is a little too young to understand what was going on but he did have fun playing with all of this presents. We are thankful for all of the wonderful things that we got this year. Jesse and I got a new kitchen table with matching chairs (yes, this was exciting for us). Aiden got toys, toys and more toys, but the highlights were a portable DVD player to watch Shrek on the way to grandma's house (both of them) and a handmade rocking horse that my dad made. I hope you all enjoy the pics.

Gingerbread Houses

2009-01-03T09:54:00.000-08:00

House #1

House #2

To celebrate Christmas and all of the many traditions, we made gingerbread houses. And when I say we, I actually mean Cam and Tracy. I was too busy making other things but we all hung out and watched as they competed to make the best gingerbread house. You decide who made the better one. I am not going to match a name to the house but I will post them with numbers so you vote...who had the better house?

Historical Moment!

2008-11-07T08:16:00.000-08:00

No matter your political affiliation- Democrat, Republican, Independent- You cannot deny that this election has been an historical moment for our country. It excites me to know that someday when Aiden is older he will learn in his history class that Barack Obama was America's first african-american President. It also brings me joy to know that as a country we have come a long way and have made a giant step, I believe, in the right direction for mankind.

Halloween!!!

2008-11-01T09:35:00.000-07:00

Aiden the day after Halloween playing with the candy.
Doesn't he look happy?

I was surprised that Aiden didn't have a freak out when
I put his costume on. We tried it earlier this month and he
was not having it.

I took him outside and he was fine. He played in
the dirt and leaves.

I love this picture. I was having a hard time getting
him to pay attention so I wasn't actually looking
through the lens on this one.

We hope that everyone had a fun and safe Halloween
this year. We had friends and family over last night.
It was a good time.

Halloween preparations!

2008-10-28T15:49:00.000-07:00

I did the one on the left, Tracy did the one on the right.

Tracy's pumpkin lit up.

Cam on the left, Tracy on the right.

Mine-It is a monster if you can't tell.

Tracy and Jesse. Tracy didn't want her picture taken so she looked down.

The front of the house. Looks good Huh! Huh!

Halloween is one of my most favorite holidays. We decided to have some fun and decorate outside the house this year. I think it turned out well. We also did some pumpkin carving with Tracy and Cam this past weekend. I think mine is the best but I am a bit biased. I was the only one who tried using a stencil. Halloween is friday and we are having some friends over. I will post some more pics of Aiden in his costume this weekend but for now here are some pictures of the house and our pumpkins.

Park

2008-10-28T15:44:00.000-07:00

Jesse and Aiden going down the slide together.

Aiden walking!

Jesse and Aiden playing on the toys.

Jesse and Aident looking at the ducks.

Aiden playing in the sand.

It has been very warm this October which surprises me since it snowed in September. We decided to go to the park one evening now that Aiden is walking. He had a hard time with the shoes but he got the hang of it.

Making Beer and Growing Vegetables

2008-09-24T19:18:00.001-07:00

I am very proud of our family. This year we planted a garden and we are seeing quite a bit of vegetables growing. It is so exciting to go out everyday and see all the vegetables bigger and ripe. Some of the vegetables in the pictures are also from my mom's garden.

Jesse also got a beer making kit for father's day (yes, father's day) and is now starting to use it. He was a little nervous to start, thinking he would mess it up but he got up the courage and started it today. He is very excited.

Jack Johnson

2008-09-24T18:39:00.000-07:00

We actually went to the Jack Johnson concert in August but I have the pictures so I figured I would post something about it. We went with Cam and Tracy and had a great time.

Gardening

2008-09-24T18:10:00.000-07:00

Tonight after work I took Aiden out in the garden and let him roam around while I watered and picked some vegetables. He had a blast playing in the dirt and mud. He is also learning to walk so there are a few photos with him walking- yeah!

Flat Tire

2008-09-24T17:55:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was an interesting one for me. I planned a Silpada party in Vail, Colorado with my one of my best friend's sister. Chari and I were excited to go and get away for a weekend without children, husbands or boyfriends. So we left on Friday, drove to Grand Junction and spent the night with my grandparents. On Saturday we drove to Vail and had a good time with her family and finally on Sunday we had the party and drove home- well that was the plan. We left Vail, or Edwards, which is right outside of Vail, at 3:00 pm. About 30 miles outside of Grand Junction the car started shaking and I knew immediately that something was wrong. Chari and I looked at each other and she said, "maybe it is just the road?" But as I slowed down it got worse- much worse. So I pulled over and we got out of the car. Sure enough, there was a flat, smoking tire. Shit! I looked at Chari and asked her if she had ever changed a tire? Nope! was her reply. Great! Neither had I. Shouldn't this be something they teach in Driver's Education classes? I was really wishing that had been the case for me. We looked around and nobody seemed to be stopping to help. I opened the trunk and got the necessary tools that one needs to change a tire and started working. Got the jack in its proper position and started cranking. Chari helped with the lug nuts and we both somehow got the shredded tire off and the spare tire on. Woohoo! We did it all by our damn selves! We were very proud. You think the story ends here but ohhh...it does not.
We pulled into Grand Junction safe and sound but hoped to find a service station to get the tire fixed and back on the road. So we pulled into a gas station and asked the clerk of any place. No- nope all of the tire stations were closed on Sunday's. Chari got a phone book anyway and found out that Wal-mart was still open. Only open until 6:00 and it was about 5:15 at the time. We hopped back in the car and headed to Wal-mart as quickly as possible. We pulled in the parking lot at 5:30 and asked the lady to help. "No, it is too late," she said. "We leave in 20 minutes." She was not on my good side and I was not liking her very much. All I wanted was a new tire. It didn't happen. They were mysteriously out of the size of tire that we needed.
Instead of driving home on the spare we stayed the night with my grandparents again, hit the big-o tires in the morning and made it home on Monday around 3:30 pm. And that is all I have to say about that!

Oktoberfest

2008-08-24T12:18:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, August 23, 2008, Jesse, Aiden and I drove up to Snowbird for their Oktoberfest celebration. Now, if you are like me and are thinking that it is only August, and how can it be Oktoberfest? Then, just like me- you are mistaken. I asked this question to Jesse before we left and Jesse, in his infinate wisdom told me that Oktoberfest was actually celebrated in August and September. Anyway, we took the journey up Little Cottonwood Canyon to Snowbird. We ate bratwurst and potato pancakes and of course drank some really good beer. We also took the Tram ride to the top of the mountain and enjoyed the amazing views and I think Aiden really enjoyed that.

**Jesse has given me an update. He does not know if it is in October BUT it is in August and September in Utah because of the climate here.

**Blake and Anna, if you are reading- we thought of you.

Aiden's First Birthday!

2008-07-28T18:26:00.000-07:00

Starting out- getting the feel.

A little messy...

A little more messy...

A lot messy...

Done.

The Radio Flyer Retro Rocket.

This is Aiden's cake (not sure why the picture is rotated, sorry...)

This is the cake I made for everyone at the party!

Oh boy did we have a great time! Aiden had a monkey birthday party for his first birthday and we had a ball. The weekend was pretty exciting. I started on Thursday after work and didn't stop until Saturday night after the party was over. I made two monkey cakes- one for Aiden to eat and play in and one for everyone else. Watching Aiden eat his cake was hysterical. He wasn't sure what to do at first but once he tasted that frosting he was in it and eating it like crazy. About 5 minutes into it he got an itch on his face and rubbed frosting all over. Uncle Cam got involved and helped him out a little. I think he might of enjoyed it a little more than Aiden but who knows. He got some fun toys- mostly stuff that moves. Jesse and I got him the radio flyer rocket. He's not sure what that is about just yet but I am sure he will figure that one out too.

Guess What this is!

2008-07-14T19:52:00.001-07:00

If you can guess what this is- you win a prize!

This post is for Tracy, may you find a smile on your face.

Settler's of Catan

2008-07-14T19:43:00.000-07:00

A picture of the game, this is mostly for Blake
so that he can feel nostalgic.

Cam reading the rules.

So the story goes; Telisse brought Settlers of Catan to our house over Christmas break and none of us really wanted to play, however, Telisse talked us into it and we all ended up playing this game the entire time we were in Price. Since then it has seriously been a weekly thing. We started out with just the Settlers of Catan and expanded to Seafarers and then to Cities and Knights. This past month a new expansion came out called Traders and Barbarians ( I know you are really jealous, huh Blake?) So we tested it out this past weekend and loved it. We sit around the table making jokes about ourselves and how we are nerds because we like this game so much. In fact, I get teased at work all of the time because we play this game so much. Tracy always jokes that she is going to make t-shirts with silly sayings on them. (ro-add, got any sheep?) I know you are thinking- oh yes, they are a bunch of nerds. That is okay, we have accepted it. We will never stop playing. Love ya Blaker- we miss the brutal competitiveness in you.

Dad's BBQ

2008-07-14T19:35:00.000-07:00

Cody, Ashley, and Spencer

Aiden on top of his box! All mine!

Aiden and Spencer. Wonder what Aiden is thinking?
He does not look too happy.

This past weekend we spent the weekend in Price. We were happy to spend some time with my dad, Roberta, Cody, Ashley, Spencer, Jacob and Rachel. We had dinner, played some "A" train dominos (Blake knows what that means) and celebrated Jacob's 17th birthday. Aiden also got a few birthday presents which was fun for him and also got to play with his cousin Spencer. I must say though, that there was a little bit of rivalry going on. Kinda funny. Aiden was playing with his new toy and Spencer wanted to join in on the fun. Aiden didn't like the idea so he climbed up on top of the box and sat there. I think he was marking his territory or something like that.

Slide...

2008-07-14T19:25:00.000-07:00

To me, this picture is perfect. Not just because
Aiden is in it but because it captures the moment
just the way it was. Jesse actually took
it.

I do not know what this face is about but every
time I look at it, it makes me giggle.

Me and Aiden- went down the slide together.

On a hot summer evening we took a walk to the nearest elementary school where they have a fun playground for Aiden to play on. We usually go to the Layton park but it is always crowded. We had a blast taking Aiden down the twirly slide and we even tried having him go down the little kid slide by himself. Like most things in life, he wasn't too sure about it the first time around, however, once he did it a few times he loved it. I just love these pictures of him.

The Cake

2008-07-07T18:17:00.000-07:00

For Tracy's birthday I wanted to do something nice. So, I decided that I would bake her a cake and decorate it nice. I bought all the fancy tools one needs to decorate a cake nice and started Saturday morning... I finished it two hours later. Who would have thought that decorating a cake would be so daunting. I had frosting and food die (food coloring is not the proper term) all over my hands, arms, and all down the front of my shirt. The temperature in the house wasn't exactly freezing so in the middle of the frosting fiasco the sides started to slide down to the bottom. If anyone knows me, they would know that this is not okay, BUT I didn't have a choice, it had to stay that way. Tracy loved the cake (the decorations and eating it too!). Happy Birthday to Tracy!

Summer Fun!

2008-07-07T17:34:00.000-07:00

On Saturday afternoon, we had nothing to do but enjoy our new backyard. We bought Aiden a kiddie swimming pool and I was excited to test it out. Jesse almost had a hernia blowing the thing up but he got it done and filled with water. Aiden got his swim trunks on and didn't know what he was in for. I got him in the pool without any screaming, crying or grabbing for my hair and I finally settled into the lounge chair to enjoy the sun when...Aiden started screaming. When I looked over he was crying and grabbing his stomach. When I looked closer there was a black ant crawling up his torso. I brushed it off and examined the damage. I felt so bad when I discovered that the thing had bit him three times. Luckily, he got over it quickly and enjoyed the rest of the time outside.

4th of July

2008-07-07T17:18:00.000-07:00

Aiden is very concerned.
Watching the fireworks.
Aiden and Jesse

Like all Holidays this past year, this was Aiden's first 4th of July. We decided it would be fun to get a couple of our own fireworks and test it out to see how he would like it. I think the pictures say it all. He did not like the ones that made noise and he wasn't too sure about the others either. He held on to Jesse so tight and would not let go. We had a good time watching him react.

First Camping Trip

2008-06-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we went up to the Uinta's with Barb and Ben. Ben has a cabin up there, which was nice (excluding the out house), but we had a great time. The boys went fishing and Aiden, Barb, and I hung out at the cabin and played. Aiden got a little off schedule and wasn't feeling too well, but he did good and had some fun regardless. The most memorable part was when we were playing cards and Aiden was supposed to be sleeping but thought that being around us and up late was way to cool. He would lay down for a minute and then we would look over and he would be poking his head over his pack and play with a big cheesy grin.

Bath Time

2008-06-27T08:48:00.000-07:00

Aiden loves taking a bath. He does not, however, like it when you pour water over his head to get all of the soap out. I took this picture right after Jesse dumped water over his head and this is him trying to jump out of the tub. He is so freakin' cute!

CHS 10 Year Reunion

2008-06-16T14:08:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I (Amanda) traveled to Price, Utah with one of my high school friends, Rachele Monteleone to attend our 10 year class reunion. I was extrememly excited to see old friends but Rachele and Chari were a bit skeptical. It was really good to see those who attended. It is definately interesting how 10 years can go by and then for one night be thrown back into some kind of twisted time warp where you feel like you are back in 1998. I miss all of my old friends and am glad that they are happy and well. By the end of the night there were no regrets and all of us had a really good time. Can't wait for the 20. Class of '98 rocks!

Hello Family and Friends

2008-06-16T14:01:00.000-07:00

The Williams family would like to welcome you to our new blog page. We also have a web-site on myspace.com, however, I wanted to try something new. We are doing well. Still living in Layton, Utah and working on getting our home the way we want it. Aiden is getting so big- he will be 1 year old in July and is almost walking. I can't believe how time flies. I am working for the juvenile court in Farmington and Jesse is working on school and taking care of Aiden. He has become quite the dad. They are like two peas in a pod. I am setting a goal to keep this page up to date so that all of you can see how Aiden grows. We hope you are all doing well.