The Williams Gang

School

2011-10-03T08:28:00.000-07:00

What an event! Who knew getting our child ready for Kindergarten would have caused so much heartache and tears. No one could have prepared us for this road. I thought I was doing my part by touring all the Lottery schools and researching the differences in; Public, Private, Magnet, Montessori, Homeschool and much more. I kept thinking how nice it would be to live in Iona ( where I grew up ) "where everybody knows your na-a-ame, but we don't. I had to pull myself together and come to grips with the fact Marley would attend the school we are zoned for ( my least favorite option ) and life would go on. Three days into the school year our prayers were answered. I got the call!! Marley had been picked to attend one of our top choices for school. YAAAAY!! Hallelujah!! and many tears of joy. This school is actually Spanish Immersion so she is currently learning the basics of the Spanish language. How fun is that?!? She has a magnificent teacher who is from Guatemala and has lived all across the country devoting her time in service. She is such an angel!

First Day of School ( yes, we get to wear the lovely uniforms. I get the reason for it, but I also want the freedom of style! )

Marley and her class.

Marley with her teacher

Marley with her cousin Emery, who came to visit for her school tea party.

With her BFF getting ready for her 1st field trip to the Apple Orchard.

and at the Orchard

She is having SO much fun being a Kindergartner. There hasn't been a day she's not excited to go to school! This makes driving her and picking her up everyday soooo easy for me.

Aria has started school too!! LOL. The ladies where Marley attending MDO ( mothers day out ) begged me to start bringing Aria. They had watched her grow since she was in my belly, and they have adored her since. I was a little skeptical beings that she's so young and I'd never left Marley at that age, but I'm so glad we decided to do so. She loves her Tuesdays and Thursdays playing with her friends and being taken care of by the two sweetest ladies. Every time I go to pick her up it's as if she doesn't even care I'm there. Rather than putting her arms out for me, she just keeps playing and doing what she was doing before she'd even seen me. I really am happy she enjoys her time there.

She has also improved on her walking. She hasn't fully exploded on the idea of it yet, but she takes time to practice each day. She loves walking from couch to couch and she'll squat to pick up a toy then stand all the way up and maybe take a step or two then stand awhile longer. She totally has the leg strength and I just think she's holding out until Daddy gets back. :)

I am so proud of the growth both my girls have made. I am so blessed to be their Mom.

Birthday Girl

2011-07-08T22:10:00.000-07:00

A year ago today my youngest was born. I remember it like it was yesterday. How does that happen?! This pic was taken on the 4th of July last year.....

Then 4 days later

Now she's 1 and full of so much fun!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ARIA. XOXO

OH ME OH MY...

2011-02-13T15:35:00.000-08:00

HOW THE TIME DOES FLY. Aria is now 7 months. Puh, hockey puck. On one hand I can't hardly believe it, but on the other I totally can. She is the same size Marley was at 12+ months. Prepare yourself this gorgeous sweetie pie has grown a ton since last you saw her.

She is sitting up now, trying to master rolling over, says DaDa and we're workin on the MoMa, adores her sister and is so good with a cloth diaper routine. We are SO proud of her!

Marley is growing too. Although she may not be making too quick of a difference physically her vocabulary is shocking. HAHA! The other day ago I told her she could go to her room if she was going to have a bad attitude and she said " May as well, Huuum!" .... and so it begins. LOL. No really, aside from being a little ham from time to time she really is a wonderfully smart little girl. She is Mommas little helper and the greatest sister to Aria.

I MUST say that I love my girls. OH! And Daddy too. HAHA> Seriously, things are going very well for us and I am smiling from my liver. ( Eat Pray Love )

P.S. Don't be jealous that our last family picture was taken at Christmas time ..... with Arias bruised cheek. Poor thing.

2 Months

2010-09-09T18:50:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it?! I don't have too much time to write, but life is good. Aria is just over 2 months, smiling and starting to coo. I LOVE it! Marley just started Pre-K and really enjoys it. It's been a beautiful HOT summer. Things are starting to cool off and I am in Heaven with all the smells and colors of Fall coming on. Much Love to you all. *MUAH*

Aria Mae Williams

2010-07-20T12:14:00.000-07:00

Is here!!! She was born July 8th ... her due date, at 6:33pm after a 2hr and 33 min. labor. She weighed 7.5 and was 21" long. Healthy and beautiful baby. We've been spending much of our time resting but I wanted to quickly post some pics for your viewing pleasure and thank you all for your love and support.

Summer

2010-06-18T13:01:00.000-07:00

Okay so it's not officially summer yet, but it sure feels like it. We are hitting record highs with a heat index of 102 degrees. AAAUUUHH!! Good thing we have a fantastic neighbor with a pool who just adores Marley. With it being so hot we've been spending most of our days splashing around and because of this Marley is beginning to teach herself how to swim. She is the cutest fish I've ever seen!!

The Mothers Day Out program Marley attends puts on a Summer Bible Camp and she decided she'd like to try it out this year. She is really enjoying it. Nathan and I decided to pick her up early one evening because we were missing her and we stumbled upon a little treat. Her group "The Butterflies" were getting ready to sing in front of all the other classes. She started singing, "Everyday I'm growin up a little bit" and the tears just started coming. She is still and will forever be my little baby but OH MY GOSH!!! I caught such a grown up side to her as she lit up the stage singing her growing up song. I love and adore this precious angel with all my heart.

Okay so remember me saying it feels like 102 degrees here? Let me also mention that I am now 37 wks and sweating profusely. LOL! I could sure use some of that cool Idaho weather some of you are experiencing. Anybody up for a house swap?? HA HA. I really shouldn't complain. I've made it this far and I could have the baby any day now. HOW EXCITING!!! I would like to say that I will miss being pregnant and maybe some where down the road I will, but I CANNOT wait to hold this precious, sweet miracle in my arms, kiss her checks, rock her to sleep, bond during feeding times, dress her in her cute clothes, watch Marley become a BIG sister and most off all watch them grow together as loving sisters.

LOVES

2010-05-07T08:09:00.000-07:00

My sister in law, Jessie took me out to do some "Belly Beautiful" photos the morning of my Birthday. Talk about a FUN way to kick off the day feeling extra special. Thanks sweetie!! Doesn't she just have a natural eye for photography? I am 30 wks in these.

Then the day after my birthday my sisters threw me a Baby Shower. They did such a wonderful job!! I am SO blessed to be surrounded by so much love and support. We ate some delicious food, tie -dyed onsie's, played a questioner game and just enjoyed each others company. WHAT A BLAST!!!

The evening of my baby shower was the beginning of the FLOOD. My girlfriends weren't able to make it because they had started closing highways. CRAZY!!! It rained for 2 days straight. Nashville hadn't had this much water since the 1930's. Lucky no one in our family had much damage but here is a peek at our neighborhood just across the street from us.

The car and truck in these photos had floated down the river from off the highway miles away. Semi's were being washed away and we even had a house floating down the highway. SO much damage has been done .... Oprymills and Land got flooded, the Ryman Auditorium was flooded along with Downtown. There is A LOT of work to be done and our prayers go out to those family's in need.

Just a general idea of what it looked like after the water had drained out. You can't even see the river from the road.

PEACE AND LOVE!!!

Visit to Idaho

2010-03-25T14:10:00.000-07:00

Had such a good time. Got to see some girls I hadn't seen since High School. Got together for some good eats, card reading and much needed laughter. LOVES TO ALL OF YOU!!! Don't you be afraid to visit me here in TN. I mean it!

Love how strong our bond has been throughout all these years. You are the best! BFF'S!

Some of my family drove to SLC where we saw Disney on Ice. What a FUN trip! Marley will forever cherish this I'm sure. She lit up when Nanna purchased a Tinker Bell cup she'd been eyeing for quit some time. She uses it everyday and loves to share the story of where it came from.

We spent some R&R time at Hiese Hot Springs with the fam. more than once actually. Felt SOOOO good. Each time after swimming Poppa would treat us to some pizza. What a good time to just relax and have good conversations. On one of the evenings we got to see 8 deer! They were wondering on the hillside just above the pool very peacefully and beautifully.

But best of all was being with my Dad - *AKA* Poppa. Which was the main reason for my 2 wk visit. We found out that he has Colon Cancer back in January....so needless to say I was anxiously awaiting to be with him. He is doing very well. Has been working with a Naturopathic Dr. in Idaho Falls who has him on a VERY strict diet. He says he feels GREAT, has alot more energy then ever before and best of all believes he can kick it. We are very proud of him.
Marley enjoyed watching movies with him, his tickle monster game and sitting on his "COOL DUDE" bike. LOL.

WE LOVE YOU VERY MUCH.

5 Months

2010-02-19T07:58:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we hit the half way mark. That's right we are 5 months!! YAY! I am feeling SO much better and life is just beautiful. I haven't quit taken my 5 month photo so I'm going to share 4 months with you instead.

And here is MarBear at 4 months

Only instead of a girl she's having a boy. Nothing to do with actually wanting a boy because she wants to have a sister. I think she's just balancing things out. She has seriously been my angel through this pregnancy. She lets me take naps, brings me a glass of water incase I get thirsty and showers me with massages and kisses. The other day ago she asked if I wanted a peppermint and I said no then she replied with, " but you've been sick and your tummy will hurt". She was so concerned about me leaving the house without a peppermint to sooth my stomach if I started not feeling good. I LOVE HER!!

We had a few warm days last month and were able to go on an "adventure hike" as Marley calls them. I really adore watching her in the woods. She totally lights up and comes alive....completely in her element. She loves searching for acorns ( and has a huge collection ) bugs, animals and kissing trees. She has even named a few. We have a couple of warm days coming up again and we just can't wait to get out! Hope you all are enjoying your weather and making some adventures of your own.

Much Love!!

Special Announcement

2009-12-03T15:22:00.001-08:00

Yes 3 + 1 = 4!!! We will have a new addition in our family come July and are SUPER STOKED about it!!!

My sister in law, Christy has started her own photography buisness and we are all so proud of her. I want to share some of the recent ones she has taken of our little family and if you'd like to see more of her work just click on Christina Cole Photography under my friends link. She is fantastic.

I LOVE this ANGEL with ALL my heart.

MarBears 4!!

2009-11-02T09:23:00.000-08:00

Guess who had a Birthday?! That's right our little Marley has turned 4 years old. Can you believe it? I most certainly can't. She had an extra special birthday this year. Not only was she able to invite family and friends over for a Tinker Bell party, but Nanna and Poppa drove out from Idaho Falls to stay ALL week. Thanks everyone for sharing your love with our sweetie.

Poppa and Daddy stayed up to build her a wooden sheep. Do you remember the post from our Nauvoo trip where she couldn't keep her eyes off the wooden sheep there. Well, Poppa and Nanna thought it'd be a GREAT idea to make her one for her B-Day and it turned out to be a hit. She ADORES Allie...that's what she's named her. She sits and watches movies with her, drags her to her room to color and read to her. She even gets her food and water before tieing her up for the night.

I wasn't able to get a photo of all of us but here's one of us girls!

I sure am thankful for friends and family. You all fill our hearts with love and I really appreciate YOU!

P.S. Do you notice anything different about Marleys ears in the last photo? That's right! She got them pierced. She was SO excited and such a brave girl. After the first ear she looked at me with filled eyes and I had to tell her it was ok to cry. Even then she only shed a few. She's SO tough....a little TOO tough at times.

LONG OVER DUE

2009-10-18T04:23:00.000-07:00

We have been up to all sorts of good FUN the past couple of months. We canned apple sauce again this year and when I say we I mean I. How does that end up happening? They had good intentions that didn't last long. I don't blame them though. It was such a gorgeous day to be outdoors. It's finally starting to cool off here and is nice to wear pants and a sweater for a change. I love the changing weather.

We've taken lot's of "nature hikes/walks". These are Mars fav. She loves being outdoors getting dirty. Our neighbor has a skateboard and she's decided to take it up....or try to anyway. She'll sit on her knee and ride it that way or on her bottom pushing with her hands. She's rather good at it. Lately she's taken up riding her bike down the driveway. For those of you who don't know, or driveway is on a medium hill and you seriously catch speed by the end of it. She's such a dare devil.

Yesturday we finally got out to the pumpkin patch for some fun. The one in Franklin is only $6 which includes; corn maze, hay-ride, childrens fun maze ( with cool slides and obstacles. ) Goat and chickens, Barn full of children zones. ( which is super cute ) and a little log cabin to pretend live in/cook in. Marley really LOVED it. Oh ya, and some tire swings.

P.S. These were taken from Nates phone, but he got our camera working last night. YAY!!!

W.T.

2009-08-14T11:40:00.000-07:00

I'm SOOOO sad I can't post more pictures. I broke my camera, AGAIN. UGH!!! I don't realize how much I love and rely on it until it's out of commission. *Sigh, Tear*. But thank goodness for the girl walking around Warped Tour taking shots of all the fun. So, for my ONE and only picture I would like to present to you two of my beautiful nieces, Sierra and Kendra. Thanks girls!!! I had such a blast.

Now for those of you who want to rock your socks ALL day and ALL evening.....and partly through the night. Get out there and check out WARPED TOUR. There's bound to be at least a few bands you'll fall in love with. Hope to see you next year.!!!

Pioneers

2009-07-01T14:55:00.000-07:00

My parents came to visit for a week and while they were here we took a road trip to Nauvoo. It was my first time experiencing the pioneer settlement there and I was in ouh. There are so many beautiful buildings and much history to take in, in just a couple of days but boy was it EVER worth it. I walked to "trail of tears", where it is said to have been the path the pioneers walked when departing Nauvoo in the dead, cold of winter. There's a wonderful feeling and peace that remains down this path that makes it hard to walk off of. I am still struck by the strength these families had, for the courage, faith in Joseph Smith, and love they had for their religion and for the lord. Oh what a magnificent journey they had and took without much hesitation. I look back at some of the trials and tribulations I've had in my life and I think "Man what a baby" Anyway, I won't talk too much just wanted to share this photo of Marley in her best pioneer moment.

This and That

2009-06-22T20:01:00.000-07:00

I've changed jobs...YIPEE!!!! For those of you who haven't been around to listen to me whine I have been incredible unhappy at the Day Spa and have moved on to much, much, MUCH better. I work in West End at an absolute wonderful establishment and am also looking forward to working with a Chiropractor in July....plus, I am getting paid DOUBLE what I use to. So much fun!!! On a sad note Marley is no longer at the Academy..*sigh, tear*. We REALLY loved it there and will miss everyone SO, SO much. However, we get to spend more time with each other and are both satisfied with that.

So here are a couple of her with her friends on her last day of school...and yes, the hot dog was her friend. She loved that thing. She made me take like 10 photos.

Marleys been doing a sticker chart for quit awhile now and let me tell you it REALLY works!!! She gets SO excited to put a sticker on her chart for doing her chores or a good deed. I LOVE watching her excitement. So, for filling up her chart she has earned a trip to see Chuck E. Cheese. So here are a couple from our visit.

Okay, last thing. This month Nathan turned the BIG 3 0. Yep, he is 30!!!! I asked 30 of his friends and family to come up with thoughts/memories of Nathan and I hung a different one up for the past 30 days until his Birthday. He enjoyed it very much and I just want to thank everyone for taking the time to share your love with him. I also took him to Sixs Flags because I felt like it would be good to act like a kid and have some fun. It was GREAT, other than the heat and super long lines for EVERYTHING. Ha, ha. We had a good time. And of coarse I have to share with you that Marley picked out an Alvin and the Chipmunks t-shirt as her gift. Ha, haa, ha!!!

XOXO

Gratitude

2009-05-02T20:16:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful month April was. It came and left soooo quickly, but left much joy and gratitude behind. I have been struggling a little with work and have come to realize that I have always been one to do things backwards or take the harder path, but through all my struggles, tears and hardships on that time sucking path I start to head down, God never fails to reach for my hand and guide me to his light. It's after his gentle reminder and warmth that surrounds me that I see my worth and take my step towards growth.
I want to share my love for all the women who are in my life. My Mom especially for always being there for me. It is because of her that I am who I am. She is my biggest role model. When times are rough she puts her troubles aside and continues to give love to others....even when it's hard and Lord knows it's been hard for her. I am just in aawwh of her strength. I appreciate my girl friends, my sister being included. Everyone knows I enjoy my "girls night out"!!! I admire the love and freedom us sisters have for one another as we come together to have a good time. I am also madly in love with my daughter. She unleashes the inner child from with in me and sets my heart on fire.
Another heart throbbing figure would be my husband. Seriously, have you seen him?!! No, but really he is the most christlike man I have ever met. He loves everyone and I mean that with all honesty. I have NEVER heard him speak unkindly about anyone. Nor has he spoken foul words towards me. I have learned SO much from him and I thank God our paths crossed when they did. There's a time for everything and he definitely found me during the most important part of my life. I am so in love with him.
So I guess what brought on all of these deep thoughts and feels was my birthday. I turned 26. Isn't that CRAZY!! I still feel like I'm 23. Oh, and I want to share with you my knew philosophy. Ha, ha! I feel like as we get older we deserve to celebrate our birthdays the whole week. Really, you can't get everything done in one day. You need; a day to pamper yourself, a day to celebrate with family, a day to party with friends, a day to stay in your p.j.'s, a day of solitude, plus you can't try all the cupcake flavors and GG's all in one day so you get one everyday for a week. :) I'm sticking with it. Okay were was I? Oh, so I've just been reflecting upon all this month has brought and am just filled with smiles. I want to thank you all for making me feel special and tell you how much I love YOU.

Wow

2009-04-26T17:27:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how fast the days fly by. Do you ever have days were you feel like you've just began to get caught up on things, you blink and then it's bed time? These past couple of weeks have been SO crazy busy.....but we've still managed to schedule our family play days.
We took a trip to the zoo on a rainy day.....well luckily it didn't rain on us until we were on our way out, but it was SO much fun. We brought along our umbrellas and had a blast. My mom sent Marley a duck umbrella and she carries it around with her everywhere hoping to catch some rain. So cute.
I volunteered at the Marathon this year and it was wonderful. I really enjoyed helping warm up and stretch many wonderful athletes. I called Nathan, him and Marley came down and we watch them cross the finish line. I teared up more than once. I have such a passion for running and I enjoyed watching others accomplish such a wild and wonderful goal. Nathan and I will be running it for the second time next year. So if any of you want to train with us you are more than welcome to.
For volunteering this year I got free tickets to Billy Currington and took Nathan. He has such a good voice and his band members really put on a show. They had good energy and charisma. Afterwards I was wanting dessert.....of coarse and we couldn't find a place that was open. We drove around everywhere and ended up at the Krystals drive through. For those of you in the west it's similar to McDonalds only a little better. Isn't that crazy!!! What I won't do for a little late night snack. Ha, ha!!!
Today I spent the early afternoon on a family date to the lake before heading off to work. The weather has been so great this week and I LOVE it!! All 85 degrees of it. Makes it hard to be stuck indoors working. Hope you all are enjoying your weather and making the most of it.

Job 4 Me!

2009-04-02T18:11:00.000-07:00

I'm working at The Wood House Spa in Franklin, TN. Google it, check it out and maybe even book yourself a relaxing experience! Seriously, peace hits you right as you walk through the doors. This has been a tramendously adventurous, walking out of the shell experience for me. I've stayed up many night running through many options and prayed for much guidance as far as leaving my MarBear in the care of someone else during my hours away. WOW!!! What a hard decision to make! Sometimes I wish my child came with step by step directions when it comes to these tough choices. This was her first week at The Academy and already she's fallen in love with 3 new friends. She comes home filled with a bubbly spirit, excitement and SO much energy!! I know this is a step in the right direction.

Enjoy this upcoming weekend!!!

Warmer Weather

2009-03-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

I've had a ton of fun these past couple of days and my only wish is that the weather would stay in the 70s from here on out, but it doesn't look promising. Marley and I had a mommy and me Zoo day. I love watching her curiosity towards animals grow. She's starting to ask more questions and her love for animals is growing! Hopefully this doesn't lead to a birthday wish for a monkey.

A sweet girl handed Marley some bird feed as she was leaving because the birds weren't eating much, but the first time Marley held her arm up she made a friend. She held still the entire time and didn't get scared. I am SO proud of her! She didn't really know what to say afterwards....I don't think she could hardly believe she just feed a bird!

My sister in law, Kimberly, and I had a wonderful time Consignment Sale shopping yesterday. For those of you who don't know what this is it's a place where moms can sale and buy gently used clothing. What a clever idea! The sales are 10x better than shopping at Once Upon A Child by the way. My favorite is to hit it on the last day when everything is 50% off. This means I find top brands for just a couple of bucks. I hardly ever spend full price for Marleys clothes. It just doesn't make sense to me when she's just going to grow out of them next month! I think the closest one to my Idaho friends is in Boise. So fill your car with momma's and make it a fun road trip.

I hope everyone is having a wonderful Sunday. Loves to all.

P.S. Isn't she a sweetie!

YAY!!!!

2009-03-01T17:28:00.001-08:00

I passed my board exam last Thursday which means I am officially a massage therapist. Can I just say that I am FREEEEEEEE!!! I feel like a new person and am so grateful for this chapter in my life. I have been celebrating ever since Thursday afternoon and probably will for the rest of the month!
Marley and I took a road trip with daddy and the uncles over the weekend and it was SO nice to hangout and relax. We ( Marley and I ) stayed in bed late, had breakfast made for us, went for a swim then caught the last show. She is so proud of her Daddy and Uncles and enjoys watching every show she can. And I don't mind the pampering I get when I go on the road with them. ;)
Marley got to plan a date last night to celebrate me passing the exam and she choose to stay in with pizza, treats and a movie. She sure knows the way to my heart; No cooking, hardly any mess to clean up, TREATS with a movie!!! I LOVED it!
I AM blessed! I hope you all are enjoying the chapter of your life you are presently in and living each day as if you were on vacation. HA!!! Anyone up for a meditation session to warmer climates!? -LOVES-

P.S. Marley gives THE best massages and I think it's so sweet the way she takes care of me.

Really Quick

2009-02-07T11:51:00.000-08:00

I'm back!!! Life has been so wonderfully busy that I haven't had time to catch up on my blog....infact, I should be studying this very second, but I want to share my fun activities with you.
In January Marely and I was able to visit family in Idaho for almost the whole month! In the middle of recieving treatment during the weeks in Twin and visiting family in Idaho Falls for the weekends, I was able to slip away for a weeks vacation in Cancun with my hubby and his family. I've never been to Mexico so this was such a treat for me! I want to post some pictures of how beautiful and calm Cancun is this time of year. There's hardly any people there and the weather rocks!!
Hope you all are VERY well. Blessing your way.

P.S. In the second to last picture if you look at the waves in the back those are the ones we were riding on our boogie boards. Talk about CRAZY fun!!! I feel kinda silly putting all these pics of Nate and I on here. We haven't had that much time to ourselves.....well since Marley was born.

Finally......

2008-11-28T18:50:00.000-08:00

Just what we've been needing. Some family pics!!! You know I always enjoy snapping some fun ones of MarBear, and the occasional one of my hot husband, but we never seem to get any of us all together. Anyone else find themselves searching for the ONE cute family photo they can pass around for the holidays only to find that ONE cute photo was from last year!? Ha, ha! Well, thanks to my sweet sister in law our iphotos have just been update and here are a few for your viewing pleasure.

The top three are my favorite, but here are a couple more...

Downtown Holiday Jacket and Pant GIVEAWAY!!!!

2008-11-22T11:33:00.000-08:00

SOOOOOO cute for all you momma's out there who have darling girls to dress up.
Create a link from her blog and you'll be entered to win!.....but hopefully I beat you. ;)

Downtown Holiday Jacket and Pant GIVEAWAY!!!!

Hoping your week is filled with LOVE

2008-11-18T17:32:00.000-08:00

Haven't had much time for blogging, but I found myself going through old photos today and wanted to share some LOVE.

Husband Tag

2008-11-05T13:07:00.001-08:00

Nancy tagged me about a week and a half ago so I thought I'd better get to bragging about my husband!

1. What is his name? Nathan Allen Williams. A.K.A. Nate Dogg, Babe and Daddy
2. Who eats more? He can eat more than me, but for the most part we eat about the same.
3. Who said I love you first? Nathan did.
4. Who is taller? Nathan, but not by far
5. Who is smarter? When it comes to vocabulary I would have to say Nathan is, hands down, but as far as reading peoples emotions and understanding their feelings that would be me. So we make a fantastic team.
6. Who is more sensitive? ME!!! He has a softer heart than you think though.
7.Who does the laundry? I do. He'll join in on the folding if I start doing it while we're watching a movie or something.
8. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? He does......well, right now I am because I accidently broke one of our windows and I kept thinking that a spider might come in and if he were closer to the window maybe they'd just crawl on him. ( childhood emotions coming out I'm sure ) :)
9. Who pays the bills? He does.
10. Who cooks more? I do, but he makes a GREAT chef when he feels like it.
11. What meals do you cook together? There's not any particular ones....he'll just come in and ask what he can help with sometimes.
12. Who is more stubborn? Probably me.
13. Who is the first to admit they're wrong? We're pretty even on that.
14. Who has more siblings? Nathan does by 1.
15. Who wears the pants in the relationship? Well, we both wear pants!!! We make things even. No one stands in front of the other....just equal.
16. What do you like to do together? Snuggle, run, play games, watch movies, work in the yard, go out do eat, go on a bike ride and go to concerts.
17. Who eats more sweets? We go through these spurts were we both are really bad. ( like holidays ) Other than that we only have sweets on Sunday.
18. Guilty pleasures? He loves computers ( Mac ) Iphone, Iphods....pretty much any new technology that's out there.
19. How did you meet? My mom introduced us. She met him and his brothers at a music seminar.
20. Who asked who out first? The boy of coarse! I'm VERY old fashion when it comes to that.
21. Who kissed who first? Nate made the move then we met in the middle.
22. Who proposed? Him of coarse!!! Like 3 times. :)
23. His best features? Beautiful blue eyes, dark features, toned bod......I just LOVE HIM!!!!
24. What is his greatest quality? To love unconditionally.
25. Tagged? Hanna, Katie, Bonnie and Holly. ( I'll be checkin up on you girls )

Jellystone Camping

2008-10-25T14:44:00.000-07:00

It's become a tradition that us Williams, and some friends of ours go to Jellystone National Park each October for some SUPER FUN Halloween camping. We did the usual, got there set up camp and mingled around until dinner time. Actually we took the kids on a hayride with Yogi to plant their Pumpkin seeds then prepared some delicious camp fire dinner. After we ate and put the kiddos to bed we played pop-it until the batteries literally died. Hilarious!!! We were all so hopped up on marshemellos that it made the experience that much more enjoyable. I wish I had thought to take some pictures.

Anyway, the next morning we woke up, ate some yummy breakfast, and head out for our hayride (which is actually really fun, we sing songs the whole way. )with Yogi to see if our pumpkins had grown so we could pick them. Sure enough!!!!!......Yogi must have some magic seeds for them to have grown over night. :) Then we packed up camp and hung out until trick-or-treating that evening. The kiddos looked so cute in their costumes and had a fabulous time trick-or-treating together.

I'm just SO glad we have a safe, fun, enjoyable place to take MarBear to enjoy some Halloween fun!!! Maybe we'll see you there next year!!! :)

Marleys Party

2008-10-25T14:00:00.000-07:00

Marleys Birthday is not until Monday but we decided to have her Princess and Prince party today. I let her choose a theme for the party and I have to tell you that it was a toss up there for awhile between Spider Man and Princess....but luckily Princess won! We made some cute invitations together....she chose the paper and accessories while I cut and glued them together.

At her party we had taco soup, (which she chose) played pin the wand on the princess, then sat in a circle sharing our thoughts and feelings about Marley. This "game" was my favorite. I really enjoyed watching her appreciate the words that were spoken and the love that was being shared just for her. I came up with this idea while thinking of something we could do that doesn't require prizes or candy (seems how everyone's pretty sugared up around this time of year) and got to thinking that REALLY a birthday party IS about more than gifts. To me it's simply the presence of loved ones joining together to celebrate the happiness and joy it brings having you in their lives......so I called around and asked everyone if they wouldn't mind sharing some thoughts or memories they cherish most about MarBear (aslo writing it on paper so I can keep it in her memory box) and I'm sure glad they did! I can tell it made her day very special.

Some things that were said:

"We love your adventurous spirit. We love to watch you swim and climb. You love to be outdoors and explore. Most of all we just love you!" (from Auntie Kimberly, Uncle Jordan and Meredith)

"I love how feminine you are in everything you do. The way you run, throw, jump and talk. It is so cute how you push your little curls out of your face. " (Uncle Nic)

"I remember when you'd come visit us uncles and work you use to show off your shoes. Lifting your let up so we could see what shoes you had on that day, you'd say oooos, oooos. " (Uncle Quinn)

........and now she's taking her nap so we can have energy to go to our next event which is games and trunk-or-treating at the church......I think we'll skip the trunk-or-treating since the poor thing crashed from too much cake and ice-cream. :)

P.S. If you take note in the pictures she goes from all the way princess straight to LOVIN on her new transformers toy. She cracks me up. I LOVE HER!!!

One down, one more to go.

2008-10-14T17:06:00.000-07:00

This week has gone by SO fast. I finished my Kinesiology class and only have one more class to go. YIPPEEE!!!! A group of us students decided to have a night out to celebrate how for we've come. It's been such a wonderful experience. I have met some incredible people and been able to build friendships along the way.

If you haven't booked your appointment, do it now!!! :) Ha, ha! Everyone could use a massage and if you can't afford it find a MT school near by and call for their rates.....most usually 1/2 off what you'd generally spend and you can find some GREAT students who are just as good as any other.

What a beautiful life I am blessed with.

2008-10-06T07:18:00.000-07:00

Marley had her first day at Top Kids on Friday and LOVED it. She couldn't hardly wait to get there and wasn't ready to leave when I went to pick her up. She did all sorts of activities throughout the day. She learned colors ( and found out her favorite is purple ) colored, painted, had story time then read to her teacher, sang and learned rythm, and played outside. I wanna go to Top Kids!!! What a relief it is knowing my child is safely taken care of and enjoys were she is when away from family.

My first day of Clinic was AWSOME!! I LOVE it! I had one 90 min and one 60 min. session. I was totally nervous up until the point my clients came then everything ran just as smooth as I'd hoped it would. I know I was lead down this path for a reason and I am SO blessed to have found a career choice I feel nothing but joy about. It's funny because I had no time for a break let alone my lunch hour but I felt completely fed.

On Sunday we were able to spend time as a family and boy had we needed it. Nathan and I have been SO busy with work and school that it's been difficult finding more than 20 minutes to spend with all 3 of us together. We have a walnut tree in our back yard and we have decided to husk it this year! It was so much fun!!! It was 85 degrees with a breeze and it felt heavenly to be outside. I LOVE MY LIFE!!!!

Views from our hikes

2008-09-30T08:16:00.000-07:00

Fall Creek Falls

2008-09-30T07:50:00.000-07:00

We got to enjoy a family camping trip to Fall Creek Falls this past weekend and enjoyed every second of it. Our first day there we took a short 2 mile hike around all the scenic look outs then down into the bottom of the falls. Marley was such a trooper. She really loves hiking! We only carried her for short periods of time in the backpack and she did the rest on her own. I am VERY proud of her. (in one picture you can see her trying to catch a quick nap while riding on my back) She says her favorite park of the camp out was "sitting by the camp fire". Nothing like smelling like some good ole' camp fire. Mmmm hummm.

The second day we made up our own hike. We just ventured off into the forest behind our camp site. BEAUTIFUL! We saw 8 deer on this hike. I LOVE being outdoors enjoying goods creations! It so balancing for me. The leafs are just starting to change so it was fun to spy all the red leafs. Marley started collecting the acorns and shiny rocks. It was SO cute, she kept singing "Sing oh for the expedition, sing oh for the life of a pig" off Piglets BIG movie. After our hike we did some bike riding then a little swimming afterwards. The water was super cold but we were daring and once we got in it was actually fine. The water has been so low the past couple of years that you can actually stand on top of Cane creek falls and get a fabulous view.

Oh, I almost forgot to tell you. We had a PRO raccoon break into our cooler. How in the heck does a raccoon know how to open a cooler! Well anyway he stole our chicken for the next nights dutch oven. Little rascal. Nathan and I spotted him hanging around the night after plotting his next move. Too bad we hid everything in the truck. Haa, ha, ha!

Hair fun

2008-09-24T11:48:00.000-07:00

Those of you who know me well know how I feel about spiders....freakishly scared of them!!!! and this big guy decided to make a home right in our front yard. I haven't asked Nate to move him or KILL him if you will but rather I am trying to overcome my fear. So far so good.....but you can bet your bottom dollar I'm checking on him each and everyday. I don't know why, I guess I fear him coming into the house (which Nate says WON"T happen because he's an outdoor spider) which what would I do if he were to show up missing one day?!
I've become addicted to BLOGS! I can't help but get lost in all the cute blogs and fun ideas everyone comes up with. Makes me want to put my creative energy to good use. I decided to practice a hair style on MarBear (seems how that's the last blog I got lost in) and wanted to share it with you. I took 2 different styles off from Piggies and Ponies (which my friend Hanna has published a few of her brilliant, creative styles on...check them out) and came up with this. Super cute and fun!!! I'll probably be doing Mars hair each and everyday, even if we don't go anywhere! It's too fun! The bow I have on top is one I made with Hanna and Hilary last time I was visiting (they've made quit the craft girl out of me)
Loves to all and enjoy this magnificent day! You will see in the photo Marley is still wearing a skirt and tank-top....it's still 84 DEGREES here in Nashville. Send some of that brisk, chilly air our way will ya'.

XOXO

Catch up

2008-09-23T07:35:00.001-07:00

I figured since it's been over a year I'll go ahead and take some time to catch everyone up. Geez, where to start!!! Well, Marley will be turning 3 at the end of next month. CRAZY HUH!!! I can't hardly believe that it's been 3 years since I had her. Man how time flys! But on the top note what amazing 3 years it has been. I have learned more from Marley in these past 3 years then I have my whole 25 years of life! What a blessing. One of my most favorite things to do with her are.....well, first of all slow myself down, then get on her level and see things through her eyes. I've really enjoyed being a kid again.

When I'm not spending my time with Marley or Nathan I am either studying or at class. I started Massage Therapy school back in January and will be finished Dec. 3rd. I have loved EVERY second of it. It feels so good to have peace with the career choice I've made and it's SO family friendly! I start my clinic hrs in a week therefore Marley will be starting preschool. I don't think the girl could be anymore excited about it. She enjoys collecting backpacks and can't wait to show them off to her new teacher. The only thing she IS bummed about is that she won't be riding the school bus yet. She's so independent. Isn't it cool to ride with Mom? I can't wait to see what she's like in high school! Huh!

Nathan is our glue. He's what holds us all together. The poor man lives in a house with 2 girls!!! He is such a wonderful husband and magnificent daddy. The other night ago I was soaking in the bath and of coarse Marley had to join me....she's such a little fish. Anyway, I was doing an exercize with my chakras where you pretty much just sing notes until you find the one that your body needs. Marley was loving it!!! I couldn't quit hit the bass notes I was needing so I asked Nate to sing them for us while he was working in the office. Anyway, my whole point to this story is Marley and I are always doing crazy girl stuff and I'm sure Nate would just LOVE a guys night out. He is so patient, gently and loving with us and I'm so glad to have him in my life.

I hope you all are enjoying the cooler weather as much as I am. May you feel peace and beauty around you.

Alive & Well

2007-07-30T20:09:00.000-07:00

Hello to All!!! It's been atleast a year since our last post so I thought I'd do a quick catch up. Gosh, were do I start! Well, Marley will be 2 in 3 months and man is she a HANDFUL of fun. We just went and got her very first hair cut today (besides when we buzzed her so her hair would be all one length :) I took her to a kids salon and she had alot of fun.
We have been enjoying this summer so much. We found a turtle in our back yard and he's decided to be apart of our family. Every morning when we get up Marley will say "Yuritle" (that what we've named him) and we'll go say our hellos. That is her most favorite thing to do. She fell of the couch a few days ago and fractured her elbow. She is wearing a half cast for now but next week we'll go in to get a full one. :( She has been such a tuff nugget though....hardly complains about. It doesn't stop her from going about her buisness, she's still just as active as ever.
Daddy is gone on the road and we won't see him for a month. LIfe is beautiful though so we can't complain too much. Hope you enjoy the photos.

Learning to Walk

2007-02-18T18:07:00.000-08:00

Marley has been strengthaning her legs by pushing her walker around the house, yes, most of the time she is wearing only her diaper! She has been doing so for a couple of months. She has found belief in herself and is now walking on her own. I was laying on the floor this evening and she started walking up to me. Almost falling she shifted her weight from her hills to her toes finding the balance to keep going. I am so proud of her!!! She may be little but I have learned not to underestamate her and her strong strong willpower. Take pulling all the books off the bookshelve at least once a day for instance. :)