The Williams

Christmas in Dixie

2011-12-27T06:26:00.000-08:00

We had Christmas in Hartselle a week early this year. It was nice to be able to spend time up there without being rushed. There's a lot of kids, so there's never a dull moment. Scott flies for Delta and had to work, but the rest of the crew was there. Thanks for everything, Gmama and Granddaddy!

Shelby

Grace

Eli and Sawyer got camping equipment. The flashlights were a hit!

Sissy Brown-Brown

Caroline

Hayes, Al, and Caleb

my boys

Katie and her new Jessica Simpson boots...cute!

Gmama, Grace, and her new Kindle

me and SWEET Caroline

"God's Gift to Us"

2011-12-26T18:14:00.000-08:00

Sawyer and Eli had their Christmas program at their "school" on Dec. 13th. It was PRECIOUS! The four-year-olds dressed up, and they marched in as a man read Luke 2. I (of course) teared up seeing them walk in-Jesus' birth and my baby dressed up as a shepard was a little overwhelming for me. Sawyer sang every word and did every motion. Last year during the Christmas play he didn't crack a smile, but this year, he was with it! :) I told Allyson she may have to stand in for me at the preschool graduation in May. I'm a basket case, y'all! At the end of this program, I was ready to go to the doctor and get some nerve pills. My grandmother and her sisters were incredibly emotional, and I remember her taking a nerve pill once. I really think I could use one the next time my boys perform. Oh my! Thankfully, Walker is use to me and expects it from me. He just handed me a napkin and smiled! ;)

Here comes Eli. The two-year-old classes joined the group for the last two songs. You NEVER know what to expect from Eli. The first day they went to practice, Eli's teacher told me he just stood there. I told him in the car on the way home that we expect him to do what his teacher tells him, and I wouldn't tell his daddy yet, but if he didn't sing the next time, I would tell him and his daddy would spank him. He said, "Okay, Mama." So...the next practice, before I could ask, his teacher said...WOAH! Eli sang louder than anybody today!! :) He did FANTASTIC in the program! Praise the Lord!

See him doing the motions. This is "He-He-He-He Saved Me, and I've Got the Joy of the Lord!"

He spotted us at the end of the program.

Sawyer found us too.

I could eat them up!

By the way...My favorite song of this was "Soft, Sweet Hay."

Milk Cow Mooey

Donkey Chewey

Funny, Little Place for a Baby to Stay

Milk Cow Mooey

Donkey Chewey

Little Baby Jesus in the Soft, Sweet Hay.

Jesus, born in a Stable

Sleeping on a Bed of Hay

Precious, Gift from God Above

With Love

Our Train Ride

2011-12-26T17:21:00.000-08:00

We took the boys to the Polar Express on Dec. 10th. They LOVE trains, so they were really, really excited about getting to ride one. We read the book and watched the movie which helped build excitement, and by the time we were ready to go, these boys were pumped!

We were all four given a "magic key" that will unlock any door.

This was my favorite part. This cute elf talked and talked to Sawyer about what he wanted for Christmas. He just kept laughing and smiling at her. She said, "Why do you keep laughing? Are you laughing at my ears?" Then, she let him touch them. ;)

Waiting at the North Pole for Santa and Ms. Claus to come visit us.

Aren't they cute?

Christmas has been fun around here! All Eli asked for was a cupcake, and Sawyer wanted a Transformer. Sawyer memorized Luke 2: 1-14 for the second year. As a Mama, I don't want them to get too caught up in the "getting" of Christmas. Thankfully, that's really not either of of their nature (yet at least). We really talk a lot about how the town is decorated for Jesus' birthday and how it's all about HIM. I hope we can always remember what's important and what really matters.

She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.

Matthew 1:21

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

2011-12-26T15:14:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving

2011-12-07T10:22:00.000-08:00

We went to Hartselle for Thanksgiving for the first time in a few years. It was lovely! Gmama and Granddaddy tried to get a good picture with all their grandkids. Guess who didn't want his picture made??

Here's the big kid table enjoying Thanksgiving luch together.

Sweet Caroline

Handome Hayes

Catching Up

2011-12-06T11:51:00.000-08:00

Eli moved up to a big-boy bed for his birthday. He's since decided he likes for me to come join him about 2:30-3:00 every morning. I oblige. He is so tiny he only takes up a tiny part of the bed, and he seems so proud in the mornings that I went "night-night" with him. How could I resist??

Small Steps had their annual trike a thon for St. Jude in November. The boys got to take their bikes to school and ride. Here's Sawyer with his class.

Here's Speedy on his bike. When I told him to slow down, he got off his bike and came and stood by me. His bottom lip hung to the floor. His teacher asked him to get back on, but he was not going to budge. Eli is a little on the stubborn side for those unaware. So, we ended the trike a thon in the fellowship hall bathroom with a spanking. Lovely! We're working on doing what you're asked around here. I am starting to see a little improvement maybe, but it's a work in progress.

We made our annual trip to the Peanut Festival to "ride those rides!" Sawyer and Eli loved it! It's fun that they are big enough to ride and enjoy everything. Who knew the carousel could cost us $10?? Oh well (I guess!)! Here are a few more from the peanut festival.

And, in other news, I thought I should share a picture of the group we hang out with on Sunday nights. This is most of our lifegroup. We meet at our house every Sunday night, eat, fellowship, and Walker leads us in a Bible Study/discussion. Most of these men are affiliated with Fort Rucker and flying helicopters. I have such a great respect for them and their families and the sacrifices they make. Most are here for a little while, and some of them will leave within a year. I feel like I'm being "cultured" as I meet these families from all over the US (and one from Korea). ;) I admire them for how they love and share Jesus with others!

to be continued...

Costa Rica

2011-11-14T11:50:00.000-08:00

Guess who is going to Costa Rica? Walker Williams! My husband that hates to fly or leave his wife and kiddos is off to Costa Rica in January for an agricultural mission trip, and I am SO EXCITED for him!! Our wonderful church is big on following Jesus and his commandments! :) Isn't that great!?!?
So, Jesus told us to "go and tell," so Walker is facing his fear and trusting that God will take care of him to teach about Jesus and to teach some Costa Ricans how to make the best use of their cows and chickens.
Last night Sawyer's prayer was, "Dear God, please keep Daddy safe on his way to Costa Rica, and I am so glad he is going to tell people about you!"
I love these boys that live in my house and their heart for the Lord! Just wanted to share our news! I'm excited to see how God is going to use Walker! I'll keep you posted.

Halloween

2011-11-09T16:45:00.000-08:00

The Friday before Halloween the boys had "Harvest Blessings" parties at school. Sawyer went dressed as Spiderman (for the second year in a row). Here he is with is preschool class singing "The 5 Little Pumpkins." His part was "I'm ready for some fun!" He said it with pride!

Here they are eating their snack. His slacker mama signed up for Cheese Puffs, but the cookies were really cute, so I'm inspired to do better at the Christmas Party!

Here's Eli with his class at his "Harvest Blessings" party! :)

Eli picked out his Aubie costume at Wal-Mart. I was proud of Eli's choice, and Walker didn't say a thing. I believe that boy is on the right track! WAR EAGLE! At first, I was trying to talk them both into Mario and Luigi. I told Eli Luigi would be "so funny." He agreed, but every so often he'd say, "What I say I gonna be, Mama?" I'd say, "Luigi." He said, "Oh yeah, Luigi. That be so funny, Mama." :) Sawyer had agreed to be Mario too, but I knew he would really rather be Spiderman....so anyway I decided to let them choose..they were Spiderman and Aubie. They both loved Hallowen! Sawyer now wears his Spiderman costume with a belt, so he can strap on his sword and be "Bibleman." If you're a mama of boys, you might want to check out the "Bibleman" videos by Tommy Nelson. They're like Transformers that read the Bible. I mean....my boys L-O-V-E it! Sawyer checks out a movie from his "school" each week, and 9 times out of 10...we get one of the "Bibleman" videos. I'm for it!

He's ready to trick-or-treat. We did our regular tradition of trick-or-treating around our neighborhood with some sweet friends. The kids and parents had fun on the hayride. I made chili and pumpkin grilled cheese sandwiches, and we called it a night.

Tucker, Sawyer, Eli, Jon Ed and Tripp

Melanie and Cute Jace aka "Robin"

Jon and Jace

Some of our neighbors are way into the Halloween decorations. This guy was not smoking or lit up when these boys walked up the sidewalk, and all of a sudden..."ahhhh...!"

I wanted to get a picture of all of them with the scary guy. Sawyer cooperated! ;)

Eli doesn't exactly cooperate for photo shoots with his mama, but I stuck it in anyway! :)

Eli's Birthday Party

2011-11-09T14:01:00.000-08:00

My baby turned three on October 26th, so we celebrated around here! Eli wanted an Ernie party, but Ernie is not in widespread supply, so I planned a fall festival/Ernie party for my baby boy! Eli is a fun-loving, silly, stubborn, joyful, happy, demanding, country precious boy, and there aren't words to describe how much I love that kid!! We moved Eli from a toddler bed to a big-boy bed on his real birthday, but I couldn't bring myself to take out the glider in his room. He still wants me to rock him at night, and I think he thinks his legs aren't working as well since he turned 3, because he has decided I should carry him an awful lot....but I oblige. He's my baby, and anyone that knows this kid will tell you that he's got a way about him that will melt your heart-plus his sweet smile and dimple don't hurt his chances either! Eli likes to sing, build tents, play with their train set, play with his horse, Strawberry, play ball, jump on the trampoline, wear his boots, play in the dirt, and loves his Daddy and bubby, aka-bubba. He still calls Bubby, "Awyer." If Walker leaves to go to work before Eli gets up, he cries, so we'll call Walker, and then, he'll be fine.

He'll say, "Wanna play ____ with me, Mama?" or "Can I help you please, Mama?" (when I'm cooking, he's right under me.) His favorite song is probably, "Only a boy named David" that Papa Pitt taught him. I adore this kid! I am blessed to be his Mama, and I pray for his heart! Here are lots of pictures from his party....

Eli painting his pumpkin

Caleb painting

Tucker

Hayze-pop-pop

We had Ernie cupcake toppers on his cupcakes to help with the Ernie theme.

the backside of Katie (who I appreciate for making the trip for Eli's party), Daddy, Beck-Beck and Grandmama

me and E-E

little Mikey & Risdon

Dyson and Uncle Mikey

We had a BEAUTIFUL day for the party! I made cider, because I thought it might be cold, but Sawyer selected shorts for the day, and he was fine! Thank you, God, for a beautiful day!

in line for pin the tail on the cow

Mikey playing

this was the "Birthday Prize Walk" -I should have taken the wind into account, because the plates kept moving, but I think they had fun when they all won a prize; My sweet neighbor came to paint faces too, but I failed to get a picture of her in action.

the birthday boy and his pinata

taking a whack at that! :)

Ella Kate

Granddaddy

Allyson and Wesley

Eli telling Papa Pitt thank you for his presents

Eli got a "Big Belly Bank" from Gmama and Granddaddy. It is CUTE, and he spent the rest of the party asking for "moneys" to fill it up.

He had fun!

Game Day

2011-11-09T11:22:00.000-08:00

I'm playing catch up, but....Walker & I headed to Auburn to meet some of my favorite people and watch the Florida game. The day before we planned to go, I sprained my ankle, but I was bound and determined to make it to the Plains. We really enjoyed a great day in Auburn while Sawyer & Eli enjoyed playing with Beck Beck and Papa Pitt. We got to eat lunch with this kid....

She and I cracked oursleves up while Wes and Walker waited forever in line at the Barbeque House. Then, we went to Lenzie's tailgate to meet up with these sweet girls....

Of course....a MAJOR highlight for me is always seeing this face...

Here's my sweet husband in his orange and blue! :) I think he wears it well!

Walker and I headed out after the game, so we woke up and took these boys fishing in Papa Pitt's pond.

We only caught one fish...not sure why....maybe it was because it was a hot time of the day, and the fish were all in the middle of the pond, and we were fishing off the bank. Maybe it was b/c we played hookey from church to take them fishing....but either way...a good time was had by all! :)

Big Day Around Here

2011-10-10T17:25:00.000-07:00

We had a big day at the Williams last Wednesday. These sweet people came to celebrate Walker's deacon ordination. I am so proud of him! I think it will be a day that neither one of us forget. His parents, Grandmama, good friend, Bob, Allyson, Caleb and Hayes all made the trip to be with us. I love that sweet man and his God-loving heart! I am BLESSED to be his wife! Anyway...it was a really good day! I wanted to post a picture! :)

Cotton Pickin'

2011-09-30T14:18:00.000-07:00

My boys skipped school and went to Clayton to pick cotton with their daddy yesterday. It might as well have been Christmas (for the boys and for their daddy)! They were SO EXCITED! Eli rode with Walker on the tractor "mowing stalks," and told me he fell asleep riding the tractor with Daddy. Sawyer rode in the cotton picker with Papa Pitt and then helped Michael "smash" the cotton. They LOVED it, and I'm glad to know this will most likely be an every year occurence for them. I hope Papa Pitt and Uncle Pitt will put them to work pretty often. When either one of them complained that it was hot this summer when they were helping do something, Walker would tell me "I need to take those boys to Clayton (to work). They're getting soft!" haha! I appreciate some hard-working boys, and I pray they will grow up with an appreciation of hard work too! For now, they're more than glad to be able to "work" with Daddy! Walker and Beck-Beck snapped a few pictures for me of my boys and of Risdon. I'm sure when they go to work Risdon will be right there with them. I had a lovely day alone in Dothan shopping. :) Then, Sissy, Caleb and Hayes surprised us with a visit last night. It was a short visit, but man pppppuhhhlease....I like them being here!! Caleb talks 90 to nothing and laughs all the time!! DOLL FACES! Thanks for coming, Brown-brown!

Grandparents' Day

2011-09-15T05:58:00.000-07:00

Sawyer and Eli had Grandparents' Day at preschool on Tuesday. They were SO EXCITED that Papa Pitt, Beck-Beck and Grandmama were coming!! I really, really love my in-laws and appreciate them so much!! I loved them pre-kids and knew they were extra special people, but there's nothing like people who LOVE your kiddos like they do!! :) Unfortunately, my parents couldn't make it because they are renovating their house, but Sawyer and Eli were well-represented with grandparents!

Here's Papa Pitt with Eli's cute teacher, Mrs. Beth

Eli and his SWEET great-grandmother, "Grandmama"

At the Grandparents' Reception

Afterwards, we came back to our house and ate my first-ever attempt at chicken salad....which SURPRISINGLY ENOUGH was really good!! It was a fun day for sure!

First Days of Preschool

2011-08-23T13:51:00.000-07:00

"School" started for my boys this week. Sawyer will go 5 mornings a week. Eli will go 2 mornings a week. Both were excited for school to start. I have mixed feelings, but overall, I think it's going to be good. They both go and have fun, and they're home in enough time to eat lunch with me every day! :) I've figured out that 11:30 comes fast, so I have to get all my business done quick before it's time to go back and get them. Here's Sawyer the first night at open house. They were told to sign in and then, draw pictures of themselves. His little stick man had a lot of yellow hair. :)

His teacher, Ms. Angie J

the homework he took on the first day of school...he worked hard on this!

i love this one!! :)

first day-signing in

When Sawyer got home, I asked if he liked school. His response was, "Are you kidding me? I loved it!" haha! I'm glad!

Eli-Chocolate Pie started today (Tuesday)...He was a champ!! I think he truly thinks he's hot stuff getting to go to school like his big brother. He's a bit of a rascal, and I wish I could be a fly on the wall in his classroom to see what all he'll say. Thankfully, he has several buddies in his class and a really cute, sweet teacher. We asked if he liked it, "I like chool, Mama!"

both boys outside the school (church)

Eli's class-he went in and didn't look back at me when I told him bye. He was ready to go play!

READY for school-hope he'll b this ready again on Thursday

I pray that they will both have a great year in preschool. I pray they will learn to be kind to others, be respectful of their teachers, learn more about Jesus, and feel HIS love from others while they are there.

Happy 4th

2011-07-09T12:26:00.000-07:00

We had a good 4th of July! Living in Enterprise (which is home of Fort Rucker), I have a whole new appreciation for the military and their spouses. I've known about Katie's military life a long time, but it's really amazing how many military people there are and just how much they do for us. They serve so selflessly. I admire the sweet wives who take care of their kiddos without a backup and without family around. They really deserve so much for their sacrifice!! They get moved around, told what to do, have to leave their families....all for the sake of freedom!! I'm extremely thankful for their service!!

Anyway...we were glad to celebrate at Fort Rucker this year for (I think) the third year in a row. Lieutenant Dan (from Forest Gump) has a band, and they were the entertainment out there Saturday night. We had a small photo shoot before we left while Walker was getting dressed...I hate I didn't get any of my cute husband...Next time! I sure am enjoying my camera! Pictures are so much easier/more fun to take.

Sweet Sawyer...Have I ever mentioned that I REALLY love these boys!! :)

Eli cracks me up here, because he was laughing in between pictures, but when the camera came out...he wasn't dare going to flash a smile.

I got him to smile here. I told him we'd send these pictures to Caleb and Hayes, so he's saying, "Hey Cabub. Hey Hayes!"

Thank you Cabub and Hayes for about 20 good pictures of Eli! :)

Sawyer will smile because he's very compliant! :)

Wide Open while the band played

The NICE lady in front of us blew bubbles for these boys for about 15 minutes. She was a hit!

Our sweet friends the Martins. Baron is in flight school, so unless we can find him a job around here quickly, they will move back to Texas in September. :( They're about as precious as they come!

Sunday night we had a surprise birthday party for my friend Robin. Her sweet husband asked us to plan a little surprise party. It was fun! :)

Pretty Banner courtesy of Lindsay Elliott

Bobby's cracking up because I thought we should hide behind the counter and jump out (even though our cars were in the driveway)....I did it anyway...so he's laughing at me....what's a good surprise party though if you can't jump out and yell surprise? Are y'all with me, friends? (These people were not. :)

Robin coming in. She WAS surprised.

Allyson and Wes went on an anniversary trip to Charleston for their 5th anniversary, so we got to keep Caleb and Hayes one night. I'm so thankful there were no major injuries. ;)

Our redneck waterslide

These boys had fun!

There was also a cookout in Clayton on the 4th, but I failed to take my camera. The Williams are set up for cookouts! We enjoyed fresh sweet corn, watermelon, homemade icecream, and the pool....LOVELY! Hope y'all had a great 4th too!!

We've been swimming a little....

2011-07-03T11:19:00.000-07:00

...Almost every day. I'm not sure who is enjoying it more...me or my boys. I do love a beautiful day at the pool. Sawyer took swimming lessons one week, and he's doing great! Day 1-he could swim, but couldn't get a breath and go back down. By day 3 of swim lessons, he had it! Now, he's swimming all over the pool.

Sawyer swimming across the deep end at swim lessons. His buddy Tucker is waiting on him at the ladder. ;)

Jumping off the diving board

We are SO THANKFUL to have lots of friends with pool access. I'm a big believer in a city pool. Enterprise's, however, is not the greatest, so we're thankful for neighborhood pools, backyard pools, and water parks! We've hit 'em all up!

Eli is a fish!! Ms. Heather (Sawyer's fantastic swim teacher) doesn't "teach" until they're three. However, the last day she let me get in with Eli, and we practiced. He got it! He can hold his breath a LONG time, so he can swim as far as he can hold his breath. He's a good little swimmer for two!

Handsome Pants

We've been going to the gym in the morning, then the pool which ALMOST guarantees an afternoon nap! I love summer time!

Eli, Ella Kate Elliott, and Sawyer
We're thankful for cute friends that join us too!

2011-06-21T14:23:00.000-07:00

Hi! :) I'm not sure where to start...So, for the sake of time...let's catch up with pictures for now.

Sawyer's "Little Blessings" Class at HBC.

Last Day of Little Blessings

We went to Hartselle to celebrate Caroline's 2nd Birthday...She's as precious as they come!!

Eli at the Splash Park in Hartselle

Me & My Big Boy after Mother's Day reception at Sawyer's "School"

Some of the Browns

what they do after Walker gets home from work...work on our garden. I'm not sure who's enjoyed it the most this year. :)

We REALLY like when Cabub is here!

and the Martin boys (Luke, above) came to play one day....a HUGE TREAT!!!

Ford Martin (Sarah's 1st child) on the waterslide

Sawyer loves his future roommate! ;)

Eli really likes his too!!

My hubby and I celebrated our anniversary in PCB...7 years in!

Happy Easter!!

2011-04-25T11:14:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful Easter weekend! It was pretty much perfect! We went to an Easter Egg hunt at the park, went to a birthday party, cooked out with friends, Sawyer and Eli inherited a four-wheeler, went to church, Praised the Lord!, was overwhelmed several times about my Savior's sacrifice on the cross!!!, hunted Easter eggs, went swimming, ate lots of good food, and visited with family. (I missed the Brown family, but I was glad to get to hang out with the Williams' crew!) Here are a few pictures from our weekend.

Thank You, Kelly McCarley!!

My friend, Lori, let me borrow her icing tip to make the icing look like grass, but apparently, I am not cut out for cake decorating. My grass had to be spread with a knife. Oh well!!

This is Sawyer and his amazing Sunday School teacher. She always has something special for them planned.

These are some of my sweet first grade kids that Walker & I have in our Sunday School class.

CUTE, SWEET Kiddos!

Playing Hide & Seek in the Front Yard while Eggs are Hidden in Backyard

Sawyer, Eli and Risdon were given a designated area to find their eggs in

They found A TON of eggs/candy!! Now...what do I do with all of it?

Sweet Dyson slept the whole time

Risdon

Eli

Gracie, Mikey and Sadie looking HARD for the golden egg. (They were finally told where it was-a red egg hidden in the rose bushes...I couldn't have found it either!)

Checking out his loot

My handsome fellas!

Sadie

Mikey

Dyson and Aunt D

Dyson, Grandmama, and Granny Beck (aka Beck-Beck)

Eli was over the camera at this point! :)

Because I Don't Want to Forget....

2011-04-17T21:02:00.000-07:00

Warning: This post is Extremely Random & all about my kids. I'm just a doting Mama, so be forewarned that I just wrote this for the sake of my memory.

Time keeps passing, and I am becoming a terrible blogger! Seems like I'm busier lately, but life is good, and I want to at least post pictures, because I realize this is one of my sweetest times in life so far, and I don't ever want to forget how fun it is!
That two-year-old above is a character. He likes to squeeze my cheeks, and scrunch his face...he's intense! Dr. Bang told me the other day that Eli, "he's not like Walker." He said, "Sawyer is like Walker...calm, sweet! Eli is like you, Ashley!" I don't think it was necessarily meant as a compliment to me or exactly the truth. It did crack me up though!

For those of you that know my husband really well, he's not always calm and mild mannered. In fact, most of the time he's the instigator for the noise level in my house being off the charts. I'm the "Let's calm down and go to bed boys." He's the "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!" "BOO!" Run around the house and chase each other until you run into something and injur yourself-kind of Daddy. (This is one of the many reasons I like having him around!!)

Like this....Sure boys...Dance & Jump all over the beds....

"Go Crazy, Go Crazy!"

Some of these pictures are random, but I felt like I should include a picture of my boys in their car seats. These are a familiar sight to me, and I know before I know it...they'll outgrow these things. (Unless you really ride in a car seat until you're like 100 lbs which may be the case-I don't know.)

I like this picture!! I don't remember what's he laughing out, but I love to see him laugh! This kid is no longer a 4-year-old tee ball player. He much prefers the dirt and a shovel right now, so his daddy and I didn't push it. I need to make him a shirt "Born to Dig"!

Eli is following in his brother's footsteps, and he appreciates a good pile of dirt and a shovel as much as the next little boy! He might be more of a ball player, but his partner in crime is busy in the dirt, so Eli digs away too.

This is my sweet family (in the backyard -in the dirt)! haha! And I am pretty much giving y'all an update on what we've been doing around here for the past month!! :)

Walker took this of Eli. He enjoyed how much Eli was diggin' his steak! :)

Walker said on the way home from church today that Eli is a little version of him at that age. Sawyer was trying to sleep, and Eli kept talking to him. Sawyer said, "Eli, quit yelling." Eli would say, "Wake up, Awyer, Wake up, Awyer." Me: "Eli, leave Sawyer alone." So in a whisper....Eli: "Wake up, Awyer!"
He's a dumpling and a rascal!! ;)

I am so crazy thankful that my boys have LOTS of sweet cousins!!! Here's Sadie & Sawyer on the trampoline. He loves her-just like they do all their cousins! Hope they will always be close!

Here's Sawyer & Risy-Ris at Risdon's 4th Birthday Party. Risdon had none other than a Dukes of Hazard Party.

Here's Dyson at the Party :)

We added some plants and seeds to what we've been calling our garden for the past couple of years. Walker saved a little room that is reserved for diggin' only, so we'll see how our plants do!

Do you think these two will be able to be confined to their little corner area of the garden? We will see!!

Sawyer had an Easter Egg hunt last Thursday at his school. So, of course, Eli had to get his basket out too!!

I love this picture!! They are definitely in random order, but this is one of my favorites!!

Quick memory for Sawyer at this age....The other day, Walker pointed out a little something in the crack of the back patio. Sawyer said, "Yeah. That's a chrysalis. A butterfly or moth will come out of it." We were like "WHAT the what?" A chrysalis? (I mean-I've heard the word, but it's not in my everyday vocabulary.) He told me he saw it on Wild Krats on pbs.org (his favorite).

I need to video this kid explaining something. His head moves 5 million times to the left and right while he gets it out. I can't help but laugh at EVERYTHING he says because of the way he says it. I had to walk out of the doctor's office the other day because I was laughing so hard at the all of the faces he was making while Dr. Bang was listening to his heart.

Sweet Sawyer sharing his candy from the Easter Egg Hunt with his Favorite Brother! :)

I could eat them up!

Marry Me, Mama??

2011-03-04T10:12:00.000-08:00

Walker worked late last Thursday night which is VERY unusual. We went to Sawyer's tee-ball practice, came home, ate supper, took a bath, and got ready for bed without him. The whole night made me so thankful that he's rarely ever not here for all this and realize how much fun he adds to our nightly routine. Anyway...after I got the boys out of the bathtub Sawyer says, "Mama, I have to ask you something (in a very serious voice)." He said, "If Daddy dies, who will be your husband?" I'm thinking...man, what a morbid thought, but say, "I don't know baby" as I go on and fold the towels on the bed. Sawyer says, "Can I be your husband, Mama?" I smile and think he's precious for asking, but say..."No, you wouldn't be my husband, because you're my son."
THAT was the absolute WRONG thing to say apparently! My sweet boy covers his face, looks pitiful, and starts to cry. I try and reassure him..."You're my son, baby. You couldn't be my husband and my son." He's not liking this answer. Bless him! He runs to his room, cries, and says "You hurt my feelings, Mama! I'm not going to come see you when I get big. I'm moving to Texas."
I feel like a moron for hurting his sweet feelings, so finally I tell him, "Okay, Sawyer, you can be mama's husband!" Bless him!! :)

Most days he tells me he wants to buy the house next door to us when he gets big, and that he'll come see us and grill some chickens on Sundays! :)
LOVE that kid!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"Really, Mama??"

2011-02-08T13:07:00.000-08:00

My boys are at my favorite ages and stages yet. Sawyer's going to be FOUR next week, and I might stroke out when the day actually gets here!!! Eli's a mess and half and a character and a half, and I couldn't love them more!!

There are lots of jon-jons in Eli's closet that have never been worn. I think they're cute. I think Sawyer's too old for them, and when he was Eli's age, his physique was not made for a jon-jon. (Have I ever mentioned I truly believe Walker prayed for a linebacker when I was pregnant with Sawyer? It cracks me up how many times people tell me I have a little linebacker! :)) Anyway...
Sunday morning I let Eli choose...."Do you want to wear the airplane or the dog?" He told me the dog, so I get it out, and we put it on. He looks like a little dollface (of course), but looks down-like "Mama?? REALLY?? The kids are going to laugh at me!"
It cracks me up/worries me that he's concerned about his wardrobe. So, I tell him how cute he looks. He's still not so sure...I totally feel like the mama in the Christmas story making her child put on that pink bunny outfit on Christmas morning!! When Walker sees the dilema he says, "Hey Eli! I like that puppy dog. Make your mad puppy dog face." This is the ticket! I now have a happy kid making mean puppy faces in a cute jon jon! Success! Then, he gets to complete the outfit with his "dancing shoes" and we're off....

December in Pictures

2011-01-28T12:55:00.000-08:00

Caleb turned 2 and had a very fun party!

Sawyer had fun on all the bounce houses!

Eli enjoyed it, but he acted a little mild. The next day, I found out he had a double ear infection.

Sawyer had his very first program at school. His line in the Christmas program was "L is for Love!"

Granny Beck and Papa Pitt came to cheer him on.

Here's "Eli Chocolate Pie" (as Walker says)...Eli says, "No, not Eli Chocolate Pie...Eli" :)

It's funny how often you can hang out at the barber shop if you have two boys. I never dreamed I'd spend so much time there, but it's just part of having boys I guess! :)

Christmas at Walker's parents

Grandmama (Walker's Grandmother) and all her great-grandchildren

Granny Beck gave all the grandkids riding toys-bikes or scooters. Eli was very excited to get his own Spiderman bike. He still hasn't gotten the pedaling down. I think he'd rather me just push him.

Sawyer is a bike-riding machine. We have spent lots of cold afternoons at the park lately, because our driveway or neighborhood is not bicycle friendly. He is speedy godzala in need of a helmet!!

Aunt D, Dyson and Risdon

Walker took both boys fishing in Papa Pitt's Pond. I was at a women's conference in Birmingham, but he tells me both boys caught fish by themselves.

Eli and his favorite person, Papa Pitt. When Papa Pitt talks to him, Eli is in awe. He just smiles and laughs at him like no one else! TOO CUTE!

Sawyer & Mikey at Gracie's 8th Birthday!

Cabub and Hayes came to hang out with us a few days. I'm still praying ONE DAY they'll be our neighbors!

This pictures cracks me up...I can hear them! Eli saying, "Noooo. Stop it."

We had snow flurries one day. NOTHING MAJOR but enough to make us get out in it!

Cabub and Sissy enjoyed it too!

Christmas at the Browns

Shelby & Sawyer

Uncle Scott and Julia

Scott & Katie's playing with their new toy

Back at our house Christmas Eve...Sawyer was putting out reindeer food

Christmas Afternoon at Grandmama's-waiting for presents

November Babies, Santa Claus and Dumplings

2011-01-26T17:24:00.000-08:00

Allyson, Hayes and Wes

Sweet Hayes

I ALMOST made it to PCB before Hayes made his appearance. Allyson and Wes arrived at the hospital 30 minutes before he was born. By the time she filled out her paper work and got a bed, it was time to push! OUT OF CONTROL! Hayes is a dollface...just like his brother! So far, Allyson's made having two look easy-peasy...Why did having two make me a looney-toon and she makes it look like there's nothing to it?

Here's "Happy, Happy, Happy"Big Brother!

We went to see Santa BEFORE Thanksgiving. Sawyer liked him. He asked him for some surprises. Eli wouldn't go close.

Thanksgiving Day at Walker's Grandmother's House

Dumpling #1 This kid is SWEET!

Dumpling #2 This kid is Sweet & a RASCAL and a half...Whew!

Before Walker & Sawyer's first Deer Hunting Trip...Can you tell Sawyer was ready to go? No deer was injured, but they did see a few.

Just cause he's cute!

Diana left our Thanksgiving dinner early, because she wasn't feeling well. She had the stomach virus and was admitted to the hospital. Two days later, Sweet Dyson made his arrival.

Diana and her third precious boy!

"Feels like I'm falling for Fall..."

2010-11-05T16:49:00.000-07:00

OH! I fell like I'm falling for fall
I'm not prevaricating
Nor am I exaggerating
Fall has got me in its grasp, it must be said.

Autumn's such a plasin' season
You must see all the trees in
Their blazing colors: orange, gold and red.

Should I write fall a love letter
Telling how I feel better
Every time the season comes around each year?

Or maybe I'll just go on
'bout how nature puts a show on
As a prelude to all kinds of holiday cheer!

I feel like I'm falling for fall
There are feelings of elation
Mixed with some anticipation
When I think of all the fun there is in store!

And my heart just gets to thumpin'
Thinkin' bout piles of leaves I'll jump in
It's no wonder that it's autumn I adore!

I love it!! I think Moose & Zee could have included a verse about how my Auburn Tigers play in the fall, and we'd have one of the best songs ever!
Thank you, God, for fall!!!
We've been celebrating the harvest season around here with a few fall activities!
I bought the boys Spiderman costumes the end of September, and they've had them on almost everyday since. I can't believe they lasted until Halloween, but somehow...it happened!

I like how when a child puts on a costume, they really think they are SPIDER-MAN!

This was day #1 in their costumes. They think they're pretty hot stuff!

Sawyer went with Walker to help Papa Pitt pick cotton several weeks ago. To say Sawyer loved it is an understatement!

Walker let him "drive" the cotton picker. (He pushed the lever from slow to faster), so Sawyer likes to say he "drove" it!

I didn't like the tennis shoes look with the costumes, so we bought women's red socks at Wal-Mart and wore those over our tennis shoes on Halloween night. Eli called them his boots.

These are some HAPPY kids about to ride the hayride around our neighborhood. I L-O-V-E that we did this again! Did you notice Aubie in the picture?? ;) Too cute!

Trick-or-Teating at the Home of the Toy Story folks

We went to the Peanut Festival opening night and these 2 characters had fun! All 3 boys had a blast seeing the cows, eating corndogs and riding rides.

This is Eli, Sawyer, and Caleb all on the train.

Happy Fall Y'all!! I'm looking forward to my little nephew's arrival any day!!

October 26th

2010-10-31T12:51:00.000-07:00

Well, my baby is officially two years old. In some ways it's hard to believe he's really two, but mainly, it feels like Eli has been a part of our family forever! He makes me laugh a whole lot and he's such a sweet mess!

Just an example of our conversations:

E: "Where's Daddy?"

Me: "Daddy's at work."
E: Oh.

He's kind of a to-the-point kind of fella. This morning taking Sawyer to school, we all walked through one door, but Eli just stopped and said, "Uhhhhhhhh!" as he tried to push the other door open and refused to walk through the open door. He definitely has a mind of his own and how things should operate. I still think he's about the cutest thing I've ever seen, and he sure does make me smile! We moved him up to a toddler bed last Sunday. He was crawling out of his crib, so he just kept appearing when I thought he was suppose to be in his bed.

So far, so good in the big bed.

Walker took off from work so he could spend his actual birthday with us. We decided to go fishing at Beck-Beck and Papa Pitt's pond. Granny Beck prepared a feast (of course) for lunch to celebrate!

Eli took a little nap for about half of our fishing trip.

Sawyer helped Daddy catch a fish.

It was a fun day! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Sweet Eli! We couldn't love you any more!!

Good times...

2010-10-23T19:58:00.000-07:00

Have you been "Boo'd"? I've been meaning to post about being "Boo'd," just in case some of you are like me and never heard of this before. It totally brightened my day the other day! This is year three for me of neighborhood life, but "Being Boo'd" was new to me this year, and we had fun with it! You can read all about what it is here. I thought I better share in case some of y'all might want to pass this along at a home near you.

Sawyer being very sneaky paying forward our "boo"!

In other news...Today has been a GREAT day around here! Guess what this sweet man did for me today?

I like Him a whole lot!! (even in a red shirt on a Saturday)

He bought me an early Christmas present...A (much needed) new CAMERA! I am beyond thrilled about this gift! I take a whole lot of pictures of my boys, and I have been making do with my old camera that has been dropped and mistreated for a long time. I know I have a lot to learn about what this baby can do, but I'm excited I already captured pictures like this....

and this....

and these...

I was in desperate need of an "action" mode on my camera! If you knew how crazy the delay on my old camera made me (plus all the tape that was holding it together), you'd understand my excitement! These are pictures that I have been trying to capture ~~since Sawyer's birth~~ forever! I never thought the pictures I took lived up to reality, but this looks a lot more like real life. I'm thrilled!! Thank you, Sweet Husband!!!

AND...Thank you, Cam Newton, for capping off my good day with a big V-I-C-T-O-R-Y! War Eagle!

Eli's Party

2010-10-18T12:10:00.000-07:00

Eli's birthday isn't until October 26th, but we had a Spiderman birthday party at the park on Saturday with family and a few friends to celebrate. We couldn't have asked for a more beautiful day! I think October may be my new favorite month! We're thankful Gmama and Granddaddy could come and bring the Braddock girls. I love that they have so many cousins so close in age!

The park + friends= a fun, easy party!! I loved it! I think Eli did too! :) It was honestly a little much for the little guy! He didn't wake up in the best mood and does not love to be the center of attention, so I was hard-pressed to get a smile from E all day long....BUT...if I ask him NOW if he had fun at his party, he'll smile BIG and say, "Uh-Huh!!" So, we'll go with that answer!! :)

Sweet Eli! I'm so crazy thankful for this precious boy!

Eli was happy Granny Beck was there to help shield him from some of the madness! :)

Swingin' With Mama-he's in his comfort zone here! :) '

Cousins-minus Caleb, Grace and Caroline (and the 2 who are in utero)

He is REALLY excited about ALL the new toys!

The pinata was a hit! Glad we did it!

Sawyer...

2010-09-23T14:16:00.000-07:00

Sawyer Williams....Where to start? It gets harder to condense his accomplishments and personality into a few paragraphs as he gets older!
I mean...where to start?

Paying with Caleb

He's my buddy for sure! I think he has the sweetest personality! He's still eager to help if I give him a job. He'll sprint to grab something for me.
If Sawyer wants to watch Nemo, but Eli wants to watch Little Einsteins, Sawyer will choose Little Einsteins too to make his little brother happy.
We're working on using our manners. The other night our neighbors came over to visit for a little while outside. When Walker finished grilling, and brought the chicken inside, Sawyer told the neighbors, "Excuse me. My supper's ready now." He definitely has priorities!
He still likes tractors and dumptrucks, but it's less of an obsession these days.
He pretends he's Spiderman, a firefighter, and "Walker" a lot lately.

He's intense working on things. See how he's working in the picture? This is a regular occurence around here?

He'll ask me three times a week to go to the carwash. He loves it! He equates Walker going to work and making money with us being able to do things like go to the carwash. It's okay if Daddy has to go to work as long as we can go to that carwash! :)
He LOVES to play Candyland and our new ABC board game.
He always says running is his exercise. He LOVES to race!
He's still really enjoying school!
A bandaid fixes every boo-boo!
His first real prayer was sporatic one night a couple of months ago.

"Dear God. Thank you for my warm bed. Please help Eli not to hit me and help Eli not to push me. Thank you, God. Amen."
I am SERIOUS when I say I think God heard his prayers, because Eli has been MUCH better!!!
-His prayer now is,
"Dear God. Thank you for this food. Thank you for Mama, Daddy and Eli. And thank you for letting Jesus die on the cross. Amen."

When he throws a penny into a fountain to make a wish, he wishes for a big excavator! :)

I couldn't love him anymore! SO thankful for Sawyer and his sweet heart! Thank you, God!

2010-09-17T12:12:00.000-07:00

I got out my blog book that I ordered after Eli turned one last year and read it the other day. I love that book!! I'm so glad I take the time to give little updates (even if it's just for me), because I realize my memory is less that desirable and they're growing and changing so quickly.

Eli Williams is a character and a half. I adore his sweet smile and dimples!

Yesterday, I was asking him about what kind of birthday party he wants. He'll be two next month!! He likes Elmo A LOT and Spiderman A LOT! (Spiderman is also Sawyer's favorite thing right now.) So, I pulled up Elmo plates on the computer to see if he'd tell me which he'd rather have. Eli said, "Hey Mel-mo. Whatcha doing Mel-mo?" about 10 times, because I was laughing so hard at him! That's by far the most words he's ever put together. He can talk, and it just depends on the day what he'll say.

He's full-blown potty trained! Praise the Lord! I can not take credit for too much of it. Eli just wanted to do what Sawyer was doing, so he did it. I'm proud!! I went from two in diapers a year and a half ago to none in diapers...feels good!

Eli L-O-V-E-S cheese! He will eat as many pieces as you'll give him. String cheese, cheese slices, whatever...he likes it! Here he is with his cheese toast.

He was also on a major stubborn streak for a while...VERY independent, but he is getting sweeter by the day! He's really pretty obedient these days! THANK YOU, LORD!

He can sing his ABC's and says the blessing (in his own way). I should get this on video, because he definitely knows what he's saying, but it's in his own language.

He still loves to jump. He jumped off the diving board all summer without anyone being at the end of the board. He'd just wear his little swimmies and jump in. Fearless!

His favorite song was "I'm in the Lord's Army" while he marched. Now it's "Hide it Under a Bushel...No!" It doesn't sound exactly like that, but it's close.

He adores his big brother! They keep each other entertained! I couldn't love this little boy any more. So glad he's mine!

I'll be back soon with an update on Sawyer Williams! :)

Back to the Beach

2010-09-11T11:32:00.000-07:00

We've been at the beach all week. We took our family trip in August last year, and we really liked it because it wasn't too crowded or crazy hot. September may be an even better time to go-IF you can wait that long! The weather was perfect, and the water was beautiful! Thank you, God!

I just like the whole part about getting away. Plus, I think there's few things better in life than the feeling of the sunshine beating down on me (Vitamin D is good for you, right!?)! Sawyer and Eli loved the pool. I'd classify Sawyer as an "official" swimmer now, so that's fun! They like the sand, but they also like the "hotel" room. So, we'd spend the early morning at the pool. Then, Walker would take them up to the room, and I'd lay out on the beach without them in the afternoon. Pretty nice! Allyson and Caleb came to join me one day. We all enjoyed ourselves, but I hope next year, Sawyer and E will want to play in the ocean a little more. The water was BEAUTIFUL. It was so calm and crystal clear. Plus, Auburn won Thursday night, so that was good too! If anybody is doing something other that football these days, I don't know about it. We're in full-fledged football mode around here. We did sneak away the first quarter of the Auburn game though, because Pete and Repete decided then would be a good time to go back down to the beach. Glad we did, because I'm proud of my sunset shots.

See Sawyer's tongue stuck out? He does that when he's really concentrating. You can definitely bet there is some major construction going on in his mind!

About the best we can do! Eli will sit still for about 1/2 a second when there's other things to do. I think he really does like me! :)

Apparently, Eli does the tongue thing too!
This last picture may look like a kid's paradise, but for little kids, it's scary and LOUD when that big bucket fills up with water. Mine got a little braver each day, but it's still a little too much for them. They prefered the "quiet pool" and splash pad! :)

Sawyer's going to "School!"

2010-08-20T13:08:00.000-07:00

Last year at this time, I chickened out sending Sawyer-man to school. He was registered to start, and I bailed out the night before. He didn't want to go, and I wanted one more full year at home with my little guy with no obligations. I know these years are passing so quickly, and it won't be long until I HAVE to send him to school. I am VERY thankful that I kept him out last year. I have LOVED having him at home with me!
This year, I'm really excited that he actually IS going to go! He's starting "Little Blessings" (Mother's Day Out) at our church next Tuesday. (I realize it's not kindergarten or anything, but it's still big to us!) We went and met his sweet teacher, Mrs. Clare, last night. He knows most of the kids in his class, is very familiar with the building, and loves to color and cut, so it looks like he's going to have a great time! I'm looking forward to spending alone time with Eli. I'm just hoping Eli is going to enjoy playing with just his mama-not sure I compare to Sawyer! :)

Sawyer with Mrs. Clare

He came home last night and got several of his favorite books out. He wanted to pack them for Show & Tell! I hope they'll have it at some point!
It's a little out of control how much I adore this sweet boy!! PRAYING for a wonderful year for him!! Love you, Boo!

Happy Birthday!!

2010-08-12T11:17:00.000-07:00

This post is late, but my sweet husband had a birthday last Friday. He's now 33!! I think he's the cutest, sweetest, best thing around!!! I love you A WHOLE LOT, Walker Williams!!
Here he is with our boys on his birthday....

These 3 characters mean the world to me!

Girls' Weekend & The Lake

2010-08-09T12:57:00.000-07:00

We had our annual girls' weekend with sweet friends from Auburn last weekend. It was fabulous! We normally go to the beach, but Ashley Collins offered to host this year in Decatur. It was SO NICE to just enjoy spending time with each other! I'm very thankful for these girls that I can laugh with and get away with every year!

While I was out playing, Walker took over at home. He took Sawyer & Eli to two birthday parties on Saturday, took them to church, and then headed North (with Eli screaming in the car the last hour) to meet me at my parents' house so we could all go to Lake Guntersville the next day. SWEET! He's a good one for sure!!!

Katie's mother-in-law has a fabulous house at Lake Guntersville that she graciously shared with the Williams. Sawyer and Eli tubed for their first time which was fun! Sawyer thought it was much more fun that Eli. He was laughing and loving it saying, "Oh Yeah, Oh Yeah!!" He has already planned how Uncle Wes needs to take him tubing! :) Eli endured the tube, but he wasn't loving it like his brother....maybe next year! Their mama is definitely a fan!
We also got to witness Uncle Scott teaching Grace & Shelby to ski. They did unbelievable! I wish I had lots of pictures to share, but my camera battery died after Walker snapped a couple of Sawyer and me on the tube. Grace was singing...."I love to ski, ski, ski, ski down in my heart" as she went! CUTE! :) Thanks, Braddocks and Bourland, for a great time!

Williams Family Beach Trip

2010-07-28T08:16:00.001-07:00

Every year for the past 15 years or more Walker's grandmother has taken her children and grandchildren to the beach. Now, she has 2 children, 5 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren and 1 more on the way. It's always a fun trip that we look forward to taking every year! I hope Walker & I are able to take our kids and grandkids one day! :)

We all met in PCB Thursday night, which was also Aunt D's birthday. We all ate pizza and birthday cake to celebrate!

Sadie & Mikey

Gracie & Eli

We spent the day at the beach/pool Friday and Mrs. Becky treated us to the rides at Pier Park Friday night. Sawyer is currently infatuated with Spiderman, so the Spiderman crawl was right up his alley! :)

Sissy & Caleb joined us a little while both days! :)

Saturday night we went to Bayou Bill's, which has become a tradition. We tried to get a family shot before we left, but Sawyer was apparently not in the mood for a photo session.

We took this picture inside our room. We stayed at the Palazzo in PCB. We were in room 307. I'd highly recommend it! It was BEAUTIFUL! Our room was on the end and had windows everywhere! SOOOOO NICE!

a few more...

Ka-Larious!!

2010-07-18T17:12:00.000-07:00

That is Sawyer's word for "hilarious" and these kiddos are CRACKING ME UP on these two potties!!! It's gross, very funny, and I get a sense of pride all at the same time! :) Sawyer makes faces to show Eli how to poop. They'll sit on their potties and sing and play and laugh...Does anybody else sing the Wonder Pets song ALL the time?
If y'all could hear me, I'd sing..."It's Ka-Larious!" (like "this is Serious") Anybody with me??

Where to Start?

2010-06-26T19:17:00.001-07:00

...might as well start with a picture of my 3 cute boys!

It's me again. I, apparently, took a little blogging hiatus, but I'm back and remourseful about my time away. We've been having a lot of fun around here, and I hate that I haven't taken the time to share/document it all, but I'm vowing now to try and do better.
We're really enjoying ourselves! Life is good! I have two happy, healthy kiddos that are getting funnier by the day!
Sawyer likes to tell me knock-knock jokes as he poops and I sit and wait to wipe his hiney.
Eli likes to jump off of everything after he warns me with his version of "One, Twoooooooooo, Three, Jump!" He does this in the swimming pool, off the porch, off other people's tall porches, etc.

A few highlights of my days around here right now are my conversations with Sawyer Williams. He is a character and a half, and I don't think he misses much! When asked at church last week where his daddy works, he said, "in Troy." They asked, "What does he do in Troy?" Sawywer said, "He makes money." Another highlight is watching Eli talk to the birds, frogs, bugs, etc. He says, "Hey, Bird! Hey!" or "Hey, Frog, Hey!" OVER AND OVER AGAIN (in the sweetest, deep voice I've ever heard!) He gets down at eye level, so he makes sure they see him if he's talking to a frog or bug. For birds, he runs after them. I LOOOOOOOOOOOVVVVVVVVVE THAT BOY!!!! I could look at him all day and be entertained! He's also learned the word "no!" and is a huge fan!
Me: "Eli, go throw it away."
Eli: "No!"
Me: "Eli, Do you want a spanking?
(Eli is getting LOTS of spankings these days. I hope he'll realize pretty soon that I would appreciate cooperation!)

We've been busy with Bama Jam, Sawyer's first swim lessons, our 6th anniversary, VBS, Father's Day, a trip to Hartselle, lots of days in the swimming pool (big ones and kiddie pools), and Eli trying to potty-train himself since my last post. I'm not sure what to think about that! He goes to the potty a lot, and he tee-tees and poops like a champ, so I guess I should just dive in head first, but I wasn't really prepared for all that. He's only 20 months old. We'll see!

Playing with Turner Weinman in Decatur -Turner has a new sister too, but I failed to get a picture of her!

VBS-SaddleRidge Ranch at HBC

My little Dumpling-Tater Face! :)

Swimming Lessons! Glad we did it! Sawyer loved it! He's not exactly a fish yet, but he's getting there!

Don't they look innocent here? :)

SO glad he's put up with me for the past 6 years! :) I look forward to many, many more!

Big Man!

2010-05-20T04:54:00.000-07:00

When Walker got home last night, we played outside, and before we knew it.....
After months of being a happy, content passenger, Eli hopped in and DROVE the Jeep. His legs are now long enough to reach the pedal IF he's standing up. He was SOOOOOOOOO HAPPY and proud of himself.
I can tell I'm going to be running after these two characters a lot now with Eli behind the wheel.
Thought I'd share a video of Sawyer & E in action.
Just a fair warning....the end of the video is kind of scary, so watch at your own risk! :)
Sawyer adjusts the gears for him, and you'll hear them both saying, "Beep, beep, beep" as they back up....(just like a dump truck would! :)
Thankfully, no serious injuries occured!!

Mother's Day!

2010-05-11T13:42:00.000-07:00

We had a great Mother's Day! I really, really, really like being a mama! I count it a true blessing! These boys of mine are so funny, so stinky, so dirty, laugh A LOT, eat A LOT, play A LOT and make life around here really fun! Who knew I could love two little boys so much?

So...I woke up and Sawyer asked Walker, "Is it Mother's Day yet?" Walker tried to hold him off until Eli got up, but Sawyer couldn't wait, so he brought me a sweet card that he was really proud of. He had colored on it just for me! :)
Then, we got ourselves dressed and headed South to PCB to meet Allyson and crew for Caleb's dedication.
When the preacher called Caleb's name, Caleb started clapping and saying, "YEA!!!" He cracked everybody up! It was very cute! The preacher said, "You can tell when the parents bring them to church a lot, because he knows just where he is." :) Here they are in their post-church clothes. We didn't quite get a dressed up picture in time.

Allyson, Wes, Caleb and Baby #2 on the way in November! :) WOO-HOO!!!

Allyson had prepared a small feast! :)

Hope Mama Brown had a good Mother's Day! They stopped by to see me on their way down to the beach for a little while Thursday night. Sawyer & Eli love G'mama & Granddaddy! Maybe Mama would have stayed a little longer, but her husband, my daddy, seems to always be in a hurry to get back home. We enjoyed their quick visit anyway!

A few things about my boys (so I won't forget)....

Sawyer's 3 years and 3 months old
-Sawyer likes the word "apparently" right now. "Apparently, I need some more orange juice."
-He is SUPER sweet to Eli. He's so good with him. He says, "We have to be sweet to Eli. He's our baby, right Mama?"
-He's getting really tall lately. Looks like he's growing every day! I look out and see this big kid at the swingset sometimes, and think who is that big kid?
-When we go to the gym, he has take a quarter, so we can get our "skim-and-nim-and-nims." I don't think I'll ever correct him on this one. It's cute!

-He LOVES chewing gum!
-At night, he always wants us to make up a story..."Daddy, you drive the bulldozer. I'll drive the excavator. Eli can drive the concrete truck, and Mama can drive the crane." Then, he'll tell us what we're building.
-He knows a lot about Jesus already. He knows when you die, if you have Jesus in your heart, you go to heaven. He loves to read the Jesus dying on the cross story or his long-running favorite, the story about the BIG FISH.

-He's a very sneaky 3-year-old when it comes to candy. If there's candy in this house, he'll find a way to get it! Lately, the stool is coming out of his bathroom a lot, so he can see what he can find! ;)

-Sawyer's SOOOOOOOOOO SWEET! He cares about everybody and wouldn't want to hurt anybody. I LOVE this about him!

-When Walker gets home, we all play in the yard. Lately, we've been playing baseball. Walker will pitch to Sawyer, Sawyer hits, I'm the hindcatcher, and Eli fields the ball. When he hits it, he'll say "Oh, Yeah! Oh, Yeah!"
-He melts my heart! Every once in a while...He'll say, I want to cuddle with you mama. :) :) I love it!!

Eli Williams is about the cutest thing Ever!!!

Eli is 18 months old.

-He loves his "Mimi" (blanket) and still calls Walker "Mama" although he has LOTS of other words. When he gets up from his nap, he'll point at a picture of Walker and say "Mama." I'll tell him no, that's Daddy, and he just laughs!!!! (like I know, but I want to call him Mama)

-He's a snuggle-bug these days! He wants me to rock him before he goes to sleep, and when he first wakes up, he'll cuddle for a few minutes before he really gets going.
-He LOVES cheese. He goes to the refrigerator, and says "Cheese" wanting a piece of cheese. His other favorites are ketchup and orange juice.
-On our swinget, if I'm outside, he'll climb the rock wall and say, "Mama" to help him slide, but if I'm inside watching, he'll FLY down the slide so fast that he bumps his hiney hard on the ground, but just get up and claps.
-He really likes music and to dance.
-He likes tractors and dumptrucks as much as Sawyer.
-He's really good at entertaining himself in "our garden." He looks intent like he knows just what he's doing.
-Eli also really loves Sawyer Williams, and they play together really well, but if Sawyer gets on his nerves or in his way, E is my aggressive child so far. He'll push him out of his way.
-I think for the most part, he's a tender-hearted, fun-loving doll face.

SWAGGER WAGON

2010-05-08T09:48:00.000-07:00

This is HILARIOUS!! I stole this from Beth's blog, but I thought it was too funny not to share. I'd like to give a special shout out on this to my sister, Katie. Ride on, big sis, in your swagger wagon!

Playing

2010-04-24T14:24:00.000-07:00

I am so very thankful that Walker allows me the opportunity to stay at home and take care of my boys/play everyday! I LOVE THIS JOB!!! So...if you read this Will, THANKS! I love you!!!

My smart, hard-working husband is in the midst of building a new patio with a pergola! I'm super excited about it! The rain held off most of the day, so he got a lot accomplished. I'll be sure to post pictures as soon as they "get the job done." :) I'm SURE the job would go MUCH faster if he didn't have Pete & Repete helping him dig, but Walker doesn't make them move....he just works around them. I think that's SO NICE! Sawyer & Eli think it's GREAT!

Sweet Cabub and Allyson came to spend the night Thursday night. It's REALLY, REALLY fun to have them here! Sawyer & Eli love Caleb like they love each other! They play really well together, and it's so much fun to watch them! We did a little strawberry picking while they were here. Sawyer picked, and did not eat one. He knows we're suppose to wash them before we eat them. His Aunt Al and I didn't mind as much! We enjoyed our fair share! Eli and Caleb went to town! They were both shirtless and covered in juice by the time we left, but that's another reason why I do love that Brown-Brown...We could care less!! They had fun!

Here are the youngest two busy in the strawberry patch. :)

Allyson said before she had Caleb, she couldn't understand why I couldn't keep my boys clean. She said, she gets it now! She also said although Caleb was born and so far raised in PCB, he definitely has country-bumpkin' in his blood! :) I can't imagine where he gets it!!! :) He was cracking us up!!! I think he liked strawberry picking the best!!

Fishing with Granddaddy

2010-04-19T04:49:00.000-07:00

Sawyer, Eli and I headed to Hartselle last Tuesday for a few days. Walked stayed home to work in the real-world, but we took off. (He actually got to go spend a few days in Clayton AND turkey hunt, so I think he enjoyed himself too!)
Anyway...Sawyer has a little Spiderman fishing pole he loves to "fish with" in the backyard. So, one day recently, he said, "Mama, we need to go fishing with Granddaddy." So...that became on our to-do list while we were up there.
The whole trip up there was good! I, unfortunately, left my camera on charge at home, so I don't have pictures except from the fishing trip.

When we got into town, Renee met us at Dairy Queen. I LOVED seeing her!!! We got to chat while my boys played on the playground.

Katie and her girls came over to play a lot! I love all those little girls, but I can't get over sweet Caroline!!! SHE IS A DOLL-BABY!!! Smiles & is happy ALL THE TIME! I love her!!! I really wish I had a picture! She's so sweet with a little bow in her hair! PRECIOUS! Sawyer REALLY likes them all too!!! When they'd leave, one day he'd say, "I don't want Grace to leave!" The next day it was, "I don't want Shelby to leave!" and I know he loves Julia too!

We had a fun trip to the Priceville Park with G'mama where Eli managed to climb the rock wall and go down by the twirly slide all by himself. He's definitely fearless! He just goes and does his thing, which is DIFFERENT from my first child. I have to watch him close!

G'Mama kept my boys one afternoon, so I could go shopping at Target ALL BY MYSELF! WHAT? I loved it!

I wish we had time to visit more with friends we don't see often!! I sure do love a lot of people around there, and it's so hard to get to visit as much as I'd like!! Hope we can make more trips up there this summer! I know there's a little Weinman baby that will be here before long that I wait to see!! :)

Thanks for a fun trip, G'mama and Granddaddy!

Easter Update...Jesus Is Alive!!

2010-04-08T09:19:00.000-07:00

I'm a little late on my Easter post, but it was a great day/weekend!
A few highlights include:

the Easter egg drop where Sawyer and I watched the Easter bunny drop 15,000 eggs out of a helicopter
Walker killed 2 turkeys Easter weekend, which means he was VERY happy! :)
Egg hunts with friends and with cousins

It was all really fun! BUT...I guess the best part for me of this Easter has been Sawyer has been SO interested in the real Easter story, so it's been really neat explaining to him that Jesus died on the cross for us, but HE LIVES b/c God has the power to raise him from the dead. He overcame death, so we might have life!
We also sang and taught this peppy, little "Jesus is Alive!" song to our first grade Sunday School class that Walker and I teach. It's a cute song, and it was fun for us to teach them the true meaning of Easter too. The song has been stuck in my head for days! :) It's amazing how many of those children several weeks ago thought Easter was all about the Easter bunny, and those are church-going kids. Here's a couple of pics of our little family Easter morning before church. Notice: My poor camera is on the brink of death! :)

Pete & Repete!

2010-03-29T12:17:00.000-07:00

Do you know how happy it makes me to look out and see these two characters digging in the dirt? They love "our garden"! I'm not sure if we'll ever be able to plant anything in it again. I feel pretty certain whatever we plant would be dug up, but the entertainment it provides Sawyer & Eli is well worth the sacrifice of a few tomatoes in my book!

My Eldest Child! :)

2010-03-25T10:14:00.001-07:00

I made a little video of Sawyer's first three years after being inspired by Julie Hardy! Thought I'd share the video here. Of course, I'll have to make another one for Eli too! His time will come before I know it! It was fun to look back through pictures and see how much he's grown so quickly.

Click HERE.

5K

2010-03-21T12:04:00.000-07:00

I ran in the Enterprise Junior Women's Club's 5K Saturday. The weather was perfect, and I made it to the finish line, so I was proud! :) I was a runner in high school, so it feels good to still be able to run! I felt like I had something to prove since I'm now a 30-year-old! (Can't hardly believe I'm in the 30 and older category!) BUT...Some of the 60+ women at the gym inspire me and make me realize that there is no reason I shouldn't be able to do a 5K 30 years from now too.

Here I am with sweet friends from church

My workout buddy, Laura (with her cute daughter)! Without her...I would have finished a much slower time, but she was for "giving it all we've got!" Thanks, Laura!

Then, I headed to Clayton to spend the day with my boys. Walker made his first attempt to kill a turkey, and I'd like to report this is what he got....

But...he had no such luck. This is one from last year, so he'll go back and try again next weekend.

Play Time

2010-03-17T11:41:00.000-07:00

Have I ever mentioned that my husband is the biggest kid I know? He likes to play as much as anybody!! ESPECIALLY with these two little characters that we live with! I had to do homework for my class on Saturday, so when I went out to check to see what my boys were up to....this is what I found!

(My camera is getting worse by the day, so please forgive the quality of the pictures! It hasn't been the same since Eli dropped it off the counter Christmas morning!)
Walker and Eli (on the lawnmower) were chasing Sawyer (in his Jeep) as fast as they could all go across the backyard, and I know this had been going on A WHILE! They all three had big smiles on their faces! I use to be the type that wanted to GO all the time, but I'm realizing more and more that being home is really good too! I'm SO THANKFUL my boys get to have Walker as their daddy!
Here's my 2 after "the race" with their leftover Poptarts.

The big 3-0!

2010-03-10T15:01:00.000-08:00

Well...I am officially 30-years-old with a 30-year-old sister. I guess this is the first birthday, where the old birthday cards start to apply to me. Bourland sent one in the mail that said...It takes a lot to admit you're 30...like 5 or 6 years! That's about how I feel about it! But...I also saw one that said, "I don't like to think of myself as 30. I'm just 18 with 12 years of experience!" Some days I feel 18. Some days I feel 30 (with two children)! :)

Oh well! Either way! :) What can you do? I'm just going to enjoy it! My 20's were a hit for sure! I feel like I was very productive, so no regrets...only excited to see what God has in store for my next 30 years will hold. I know I am incredibly blessed. So,my plan is to enjoy my blessings! We went down to the beach to celebrate with these 2 characters on Saturday morning. I think they're cute!

Allyson had a birthday tablecloth on the table, several balloons, presents and a cake! I'm a big fan of having a twin sister anyway, but ESPECIALLY on our birthday. There's nothing like throwing a party for yourself-except having an excuse that we're doing it for each other. She's a REALLY, REALLY good one! I am so crazy thankful that I've been able to spend the past 30 years with her. I have two best friends in this world. One is Walker Williams. The other is definitely Allyson Harper. I can't really explain how much I love that girl, but I really, really love her and am really glad we get to play together pretty often.
It's kind of like...If my children are my hearts walking around outside my body, my dear Brown-Brown is like my left arm and half my brain. I can't hardly function without her. It's ridiculous, but I call her for 20 different things throughout the day. A few examples...If I forget to look at directions before I go, she looks up the address for me. If I need balloons ordered, she's on it. If I'm planning a baby shower, she comes up with over half the plans! HOW NICE IS THAT?!?! AND on top of all that...she's really the kindest person I know. She has a sincere heart of gold that only wants the best for the people around her, and she is able to see the best in everyone. I really, really like her!
Here's my bedroom at her house she decorated so lovely. :) Here's the cake (from Publix). YUMMY!

It was 68 degrees and mostly sunny, so we headed to the beach. Our plan was to play on the beach, get a pedicure, and go out to eat. It all worked out just as planned, and it was a REALLY, REALLY fun day!

And before dinner at the Backporch....

Blessed!

2010-02-26T12:31:00.000-08:00

I am feeling 100% completely blessed today. I was just able to rock my sweet Eli and lay him in his bed. I am not a normal rocker, but I am thankful for the times that he allows me to do this! (I'm also thankful that he doesn't REQUIRE a good rock to take a nap, but every so often...I indulge that he's my BABY!)
So...we had a big birthday party last weekend. It was nothing short of a fantastic day. Thank you, Lord! We've had a winter for the record books. Sawyer's birthday is February 15th. We could have planned a party for Feb. 13th and played in the snow, but fortuantely, we had marked the calendar for Feb. 20th, and we had a WARM day full of sunshine! Thank you, God!
I will tell you that this 3-year-old business has brought tears to my eyes on SEVERAL occassions! I feel like I have known Sawyer forever, but at the same time, he's THREE, and it's going by so fast!!! I'm just really trying to soak it all up!
He has an OBSESSION with excavators, so we had an "excavator" birthday party. My child is a WORKER! (obviously a trait inherited from his daddy) He is constantly "getting the job done." His imagination is out of control. He'll play in his sandbox for hours building a hospital, a school, or a house. He also LOVES to help! He'll run as fast as he can if I ask for a bib for Eli or a spoon out of the drawer. He's incredibly happy and LOVING! He'll tell me MANY times a day that he loves me, and recently, Walker told him that I was the prettiest girl in the world...so, Sawyer has started telling me that throughout the day. Of course that's ridiculous, but I sure do appreciate him saying so! :)
I heard someone say that having children is like having your heart on the outside of your body...I GET THAT! I totally agree! These little boys are my little hearts walking around, and I'm so thankful for them and their crazy good daddy! I think Walker's probably 98% responsible for why my children have turned out so well so far!
Anyway...sorry to go on a rampage. Just wanted to write down a few of my blessings! Nothing wrong with liking your family, right?? :)
I also think there's no better reason to throw a party than to have family and friends to celebrate a year of life.
Just a little b'day advice...I read in Parents' Magazine that a cheap, fun thing to do for your child's birthday is to blow up balloons and fill the room with balloons while they sleep the night before the birthday. We did this, and it was a HIT! Sawyer said, "Mama, Daddy...come look! I have balloons in my room!" PRECIOUS & cheap! ;)

"Cheeeeeeese!!"

2010-02-06T18:47:00.000-08:00

I brought the camera out yesterday afternoon, and this is what Eli did! :)

Here's the live version....

(In case you wonder...The big scab in the middle of his forehead is from his attempt to jump off the front porch step. I watched him "Count" 1-2-3, and then dive head first into the sidewalk.)

ABC's

2010-02-04T08:40:00.000-08:00

My little man has had his abc's down pat for a while, but I was able to get it on video the other day when he decided he'd sing it for me with the camera out. :)

His other favorite songs include Jesus Loves Me, The Wheels on the Bus, Zacchaeus and I'm in the Lord's Army (which is also Eli's favorite at the moment). Eli has SEVERAL words , but yesterday, he walked outside and said "Tractor" as plain as day. I was impressed! He has put 2 words together once. I was talking to Allyson, and told him to say, "Hey, Sissy!" He did. :) Sweet boy! Anyway...here's my video...I like Katie's so much today that I decided to add my own. Also, if you don't normally read her blog, you might want to read it today. She talks about the Bell Center where Caroline is going to "school" two days a week. Hope you'll enjoy!

Melanie's Baby Shower

2010-01-31T15:04:00.000-08:00

We had a fun baby shower today! My sweet friend Melanie is expecting her second boy in March. She is a PRECIOUS girl, and I'm so thankful to have her as a friend.

(Pictured from left to right is Ashlynn, Summer, Melanie and me)

comic relief

2010-01-30T10:09:00.000-08:00

Thank Goodness my boys provide comic relief for their mama in the midst of the tantrums, MESSES and diapers this week. They're funny!
I've been told I laugh easily. Apparently, I think a lot of things are funny....but FOR REAL these two KEEP me laughing!

-Sawyer's had two imaginary babies for the past two weeks. Their names are Caroline and Caroline. Last night it was time to go to bed, so he said, "I need to get my babies to bed. Sometimes they just cry and cry when I put them to bed." (We had just layed Eli down, and he was crying.) Then, Sawyer tells me his babies were in his belly, but they're out now.
He's got it about 10% figured out anyway! :)

-He also has an OBSESSION with excavators. He wants me to "Make up a story, Mama. IIIIIII have an excavator, Daddy has a dumptruck, Eli has a crane, and you have a bulldozer." I tell him a story about how we're going to build a park, a hospital, a house, a church, a road, etc. His eyes light up, and he says, "Yeah! That's a great story!"

-Eli Williams is also a character and half. I can say, "Eli, Can Mama have a kiss?" He'll shake his head NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO for like 5 seconds and laugh! A lady at church, however, or any other random person, can ask for a kiss, and he'll pucker up! I think he cracks himself up with this how he can resist his mama! :) I'm like FOR REAL? (I'm also considering that this may have something to do with the fact that I ask for kisses ALL DAY LONG!)
When it counts, like today when he was leaving with Walker, I asked for a kiss and he obliged. I about melt! :)
OHHHH MY!! This is a precious heartbreaker in the making I'm afraid!

I'm home alone today. My dear husband has taken himself and my two boys to Clayton, Alabama, so I can clean my house in preparation for a sweet friend's baby shower at my house tomorrow. I have LOTS of things to accomplish on this quiet day, but it's so quiet I feel a little lost and not sure where to start. I'll share pictures of the shower soon. Hope you have a great weekend, friends!

The Beach in January

2010-01-28T13:03:00.000-08:00

Allyson may have stolen my thunder if you read hers too...but it was a blog-worthy trip!
My little boys and I decided to head South on Tuesday. We headed to PCB for the day/night. It was a fabulous day! It was windy but beautiful, so we packed up our dumptruck and sand buckets, and we went to the beach. We had some crackers and goldfish to feed the birds, so a good time was had by all! It's SO MUCH FUN now that Eli and Caleb are really able to play! All three of these boys adore each other, which makes for happy mamas! :) I just wish we got to play with them every day! (I'm learning not to dwell on this though, I'm just PRAYING!) After our beach trip, we headed to Pier Park where Dillards was having an underwear sale, so that was fun! :) All in all, it was fabulous! I just wish Eli had not coughed all night to keep Al and Wes up all night!! So Sorry!!

We're Still Here...

2010-01-14T19:38:00.000-08:00

So, I have been a blogger-slacker lately, but I definitely do not want to be. So, just a quick update from the Williams house.
First off, I'll vent a little.....
This little stinker/doll-face has been cutting 10 teeth! I think he was 4 months old when his first four teeth came in, and he hasn't gotten many since that time until the last couple of weeks. AHHHH! It's painful for both of us! Yesterday, I was convinced that I needed to drag my Baby Bjorn back out. I thought I could somehow rig it up for my 14-month old child since he's wanted to be attached to my hip ALL day. Thankfully, today has been MUCH better! PRAISE THE LORD!

In other news, I went back to college this week. I'm taking one class to renew my teaching certificate. It's at Troy on Monday nights, and I think it really is going to be a blessing. Three of my teacher friends from Andalusia are also in the class, so it's bound to be okay. I enjoyed getting out and hearing what's going on in schools, and then, I called Walker to tell him I was on my way home, and this little boy.... got on the phone and said, "Hey, Mama! I miss you!" and it made me realize once again I really like my job right now. We've been playing LOTS of hide and seek, making tents inside, and talking about the weather man, and how we hope he's going to tell us it's going to warm up outside! I was so glad yesterday when both boys could get outside and play. It makes life much better when they can get outside!

By the way...if you need a gift or your kiddos don't like the bathtub, may I suggest a bubble maker for the bathtub? My kiddos are big fans of the bathtub anyway, but Granny Beck gave them a bubble machine for Christmas, and they have LOVED that thing! Who knew bathtime could get any better?

Christmas!

2009-12-30T19:07:00.000-08:00

(Warning: This post is L-O-N-G, but my memory is not good these days, so I thought I better write it down.)

Where to start? This year has to be my favorite of all time! I don't know what it was...(maybe 2 little boys that live around here!), but we were IN THE SPIRIT! I loved the decorating, the cookie baking, the shopping, the wrapping...all of that was fun! Mainly, though, I LOVED teaching Sawyer about Christmas (maybe Eli picked up on something too. He definitely look like he understood about the excitement sometimes)!
We have talked A LOT about the birth of Jesus and Jesus's birthday. So, when we'd pull up to the stop light, and a candycane or Santa Claus was hanging on the light pole, I'd say, "Look! They've decorated for Jesus's birthday!" So, after a few trips to town, Sawyer would say, "LOOK, MAMA! There's a candycane for Jesus's birthday!"
How can you beat that?? Walker and I teach first grade Sunday School, so as we'd teach them about the star of Bethlehem, we'd make sure Sawyer knew all the answers too. I LOVEDDDDDDDDDDDDDD when I'd ask him a question, and he'd smile and say, "Baby Jesus, Baby Jesus!" (Y'all know what I mean!)
So...the whole thing was fun! We had "Owen" (our Elf) in our house for several weeks. He'd come flying in from the North Pole and land on a tree branch or hang from the ceiling fan. Sawyer would get up every morning on a hunt for Owen. Another highlight was the personalized message from Santa from the "portable North Pole." HOW COOL IS THAT??? Santa Claus even had a picture of Sawyer in his big book! I was impressed!

We had Christmas with the Williams in Clayton on Saturday before Christmas. All the Williams' cousins are WILD! So, Sawyer fits in perfectly! They run all over Granny Beck's house the whole time they're there. Sawyer and Eli love it! One highlight of the night was when Gracie got a Jason Aldean cd with the song, "Big Green Tractor." THANK GOODNESS Sawyer knew it well (he fit right in)! :) Some years, they may do Christmas carols, this year they did "Big Green Tractor."

for the record-Sawyer says we have 2 songs...."Mama it's our song...." One is "Big, Green Tractor" and the other "I run to you!" (just didn't want to forget that!)

We came back home Saturday night, and headed for Hartselle on Monday morning (my parents' 35th anniversary). While they went out on the town to celebrate, the Braddocks and Williams went to Huntsville to Santa's Village. It was CROWDED and COLD, but it "snowed," and they got to run around in the Christmas lights with their cousins, so it was fun!

The Brown house is FULL of grandchildren. It's fun to be there! Sawyer and Eli love Katie's girls and Caleb, so they had a ball.
Can you tell who the antagonizer of the house might be?

If ANYBODY asked Gmama what she wanted for Christmas, she'd say, "I REALLY want a dog!" (kind of in a dramatic, pitiful way!) Katie surprised her Wednesday and fulfilled her request with a precious lab/golden mix, "Lady." So, we had seven grandkids and a new puppy! :)

Eli really wishes we had a puppy like this at our house.

Another highlight for me real quick-My parents, Al & Wes, and Walker & I played Catchphrase Wednesday night...my dad was on a team with Allyson and me. We have never seen my daddy laugh as hard as he did at the answers Allyson and I were giving.....
The one that threw him over the top...His clue, "I think he said, 'Give me liberty or give me death."
My answer: (after 2 seconds) Thomas Jefferson...
He was laughing SOOOOOOOOOO HARD-I'm sure thinking what doe-doe kids I have! :) I was dying laughing too! (in my defense I took tech & Civ at Auburn!)

Gmama out did herself with gifts and food. She's REALLY good at that! Everybody got LOTS, and we went home with full tummies Christmas Eve.
Christmas Eve night we put out cookies for Santa.
That was almost too much to handle, because Sawyer was bouncing off the walls at this point while I'm trying to put him in bed. I layed down with him, and he had 50 questions.
"....but how is he going to get in?"
"How do you think he's going to eat those cookies?"

Christmas morning both boys were excited! Sawyer's one request was a BIG dumptruck and Eli a little dumptruck. Santa had both boys' dumptrucks wrapped inside with a few games and their stockings. Sawyer was THRILLED with his big dumptruck. Eli liked his too. (I think.)
Santa also left a note on the tree that said there was more in the garage....They were EXCITED about what they found.

Walker is still taking time off from work right now, so I know we are all four getting spoiled having him home. It's really fun having him around. Today, Eli and Walker made tracks in the backyard on the lawn mower chasing Sawyer in the new Jeep.

I am definitely in love with these boys! I am thankful for their health, their sweet hearts and for the amount of time I am able to spend with them!
Did you know Jesus was with God since creation? As a mom, I try and relate to the sacrifice that God made when he let his son come live on Earth. Then, he let him die to save me of my sins. Thank the Lord there is a happy ending that He now sits at the right hand of God. The whole story is amazing!
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! ;)

THANKFUL!

2009-12-02T06:45:00.000-08:00

I didn't want to just skip over a Thanksgiving post, so for the record-I'm THANKFUL!
I'm thankful for a 2-year-old that reminds me A LOT about how much we have to be thankful for! When we (me and Al) were camp counselors, the director told this story about working on a mission trip in Mexico. It was H-O-T down there, and when the wind blew every so often, he'd hear some of the Mexican men, say "Gracias, el Dios." They were thankful for the breeze. Anyway...the point of the message was to say that we should be thankful for the little things as well as the big.
Anyway...the story stuck with me! So, when Sawyer-man started talking, and it was 105 degrees in Enterprise, AL and the wind would blow, we'd say, "Thank you, God!" This carried over into other things too. For example, when he sees (one of his many) bruises getting better, he'll say, "Thank you, God!" I'll say, "That's right!" Or when I tell him Eli's nose is not running anymore, he'll say, "Thank you, God!" (Some things I'd just take for granted, but when he'd say it-it would make me thankful and think...Lord, thank you for a child whose bruises heal!)
Anyway...he's reminded me all year about how much I have to be thankful for! Our blessings abound!
Walker says one of his dad's favorite sayings when he was in trouble was, "I'm going to turn that attitude into an attitude of grattitude." (have y'all ever heard that?? I LOVE IT!)
Anyway...Hope you and yours had a fabulous Thanksgiving!
Our little crew of four headed to Hartselle on Tuesday. We played, shopped, ate and helped Katie move into a new(er) and improved rental house. It's a little crazy with ALL of us at my parents' house, but we all really had a good time!
THANK YOU, LORD, FOR OUR MANY BLESSINGS AND FOR BEING SO GOOD TO US!!!

Another One...Full-Speed Ahead!!

2009-11-10T20:25:00.000-08:00

We've added a new "walker" to the family this week! My baby is WALKING! 12 months and 2 weeks into life...Eli is walking! :) He actually took his first steps the night before his first birthday party, but since then, he has really gotten the hang of it. (I guess he found out Caleb was walking and thought he better get on the ball!) The last few days he's been pulling up on something, really thinking about it, and then letting go with a destination in mind. Today, he's taken about 20 steps solo before he falls. I think that qualifies him as a full-fledge walking machine!

(The jay bird shot is for Allyson and Katie who think I never put clothes on my children.)
In other news....Did y'all know I'm raising a genius? ;) I took Eli for his 1-year checkup, and I told the doctor about how Eli WILL NOT let me feed him. He's been strictly a finger-food eater since he was 11 months old. Therefore, if it's food that requires a spoon (applesauce, yogurt, baby food, etc), we don't do it. So, anyway...at first the dr seemed concerned, but he asked a few questions like -does he walk holding onto things? -Can he say a few words? The answer to all those questions is yes, so Dr. Bang explained his guess for this is that he's developing his sense of autonomy at an early age, so he thinks Eli will either be very stubborn OR very intelligent. I'm going with choice #2 and holding onto that. After all, his head is in the 97th percentile! I told Walker about that, and he was excited and started calling him his doctor.

E's other big accomplishment was he made his FIRST trip to Auburn this past weekend (where I'm sure he'll do his undergaduate work before going on to medical school) to join his cousin and future roommate. We enjoyed our day despite not going to the game. It's just fun to be in Auburn. I LOVE that place!

Sawyer's big news is he made his farming debut. He went to Clayton a few days last week to help Walker. Walker took off work a few days to go help his dad and brother pick cotton, so Sawyer got to ride in the cotton picker AND "drive" the tractor. I wish I had pictures to share! He was even paid for his day on the job! I'm just glad they were able to pull him away and got him to come home! HE LOVED IT!ps-I ordered my first "blog book," and for those of you who are interested in, I really like mine! I used "blog2print.com" and it was EASY. I am very pleased! My only complaint is that some of the captions for my pictures did not print beside the picture, but I think that's minor. Maybe I'll get another blog book in about 5 more years.

Trick-or-Treatin'

2009-11-02T05:30:00.000-08:00

This Halloween was probably my favorite of all time! Who knew I liked Halloween so much?? BUT...When you have a two-year-old that loves candy in general and combine that with his friends and a hayride, Sawyer was about to BURST with excitement. He was a proud cowboy and even more proud of his little cow! :) He'd say, "Awwww...Eli looks SOOOOOOOOO CUTE!"
Growing up, we never lived in a neighborhood, and I was jealous of our friends who did on Halloween. So, we took advantage of "neighborhood life" and had our friends come join us to trick-or-treat. The Woodalls graciously brought a BIG trailer-large enough for all of us and the hay. After everyone got here, I took Sawyer to the potty, and he kept saying, "All my friends came to see me trick-or-treat!!" He was beyond excited!!

Getting Ready to Go

Mickey Mouse, the cow, the cowboy, Minnie Mouse, the doctor, and WoodyWoody & his sweet mama
Tucker & Sawyer

Aren't they cute!?!

on our way to "GET MORE CANDY!"

E-li, E-li, OOOOOOOOOOOOOO

2009-10-26T12:13:00.000-07:00

My sweet baby boy turned 1 today! He was born at 6:15 a.m. on this very day one year ago-if you'll remember my epidural did not work, so it's a crazy memorable day to me!! I am happy to say I survived the first year!! Really...I always thought in the back of my mind that Sawyer got SOOOOO MUCH easier when he turned 1, so if I could just make it (survive) until Eli turned 1, we'd be good to go! We're HERE! :) HOORAY!!

I can honestly say that this year has been one of my favorites yet! I am crazy more than half the time, and I'm always thankful to have a shower these days. I am constantly cleaning the floor or a face or some hineys, but I wouldn't trade these little doll faces that I live with for anything.
Eli Williams is SUCH a JOY and such an amazing addition to our little family. He still makes goo-goo eyes at me, and his smile is extremely contagious! He loves his brother, and the feeling is mutual. He says, "Mama" all day right now but can also say "Daddy" "bye-bye" and wave. Today he "played" with Sawyer in the sandbox, and I just watched. It was FUN!!!!!! I am definitely a proud mama!
It's crazy to think about what's in store for us this coming year and how much he's going to keep changing and growing!
Anyway...Happy Birthday, SWEET ELI!!!

We had a party to celebrate on Saturday in our backyard. I can not complain about the weather for an end of October birthday. It was chilly but nice. We had mostly family and our good friends the Woodalls over to celebrate. The party had a barnyard theme, so I made haystacks, pigs-n-a-blanket and animal crackers. We also had hotdogs, hamburgers and played several games. I made a bean bag toss and had a pin the tail on the cow game for the big kids. I enjoyed myself immensely! We don't "entertain" over here often, so when we do, I want everyone to enjoy themselves! Hope everyone that came did!

We missed the Braddocks, because sweet Julia had a fever, but we'll try again next year! A special thank you to Aunt Al. She got here on Wednesday (which I LOVED), and she helped a ton!
Here's a few pics from our party! :)

Roughies!

2009-10-13T20:17:00.000-07:00

Katie mentioned today on her blog that her girls roughhouse...It made me want to share a video I took of my boys one day last week. I live with some rough little boys! In fact, Granny Beck who had 2 boys of her own and has 3 other grandsons said, "I've never seen a little child as rough as Sawyer." Bless Eli's Heart!!!

When Eli wakes up from his nap, he cries and says, "Eli's up, Mama. Let's go get him!" Sawyer always wants to crawl in the crib with him. I usually let him, and they play. Sometimes they'll stay in there 15 minutes laughing and playing before they yell, "MAMA!!!" They BOTH love it. Walker's mentioned that the rougher Sawyer is with Eli, the more Eli likes it. That's about the truth. I am SOOOOOO THANKFUL that these boys LOVE each other. They are DEFINITELY all boy!

They had been playing for about 10 minutes when I got my camera. Sawyer's saying, "Go baby. Go baby." He had been kicking with his feet up in the air and then Eli was copying him.
Anyway...Hope this brought a smile to someone else's face today!

I Can't Help Myself!

2009-10-08T06:13:00.000-07:00

Here are my little pumpkins in a few pictures I took yesterday. I kind of like these boys! I may have a slight obsession, but I guess that's okay since I'm their mama! I need a lesson on how to get a good picture of a 2-year old and an 11-month old together though. This is the best I could do! :) Walker's taking off tomorrow, and the four of us are going to the zoo. I'm excited! Pictures coming soon!

By the way...When I'm not pretending I'm a passenger in Sawyer's car (that's really his bed), I've started going to Gold's Gym for aerobics these days. On Monday mornings, they have Zumba. Has anyone else done it? It is F-U-N! It's full out dancing to good music! It's too fun not to blog about! So, if there's a Gold's near you, I'd totally recommend checking it out!

11 months

2009-09-29T06:57:00.000-07:00

My baby is 11 months old! WOAH! Can't hardly believe little E is getting so big and so old so fast! :) He is a rascal and a half! He kind of exemplifies JOY to me! He's so happy most of the time! His favorite thing right now is music. When he hears some, he can't help but clap and smile! His other favorite thing is chasing Sawyer around the house on all fours. They crack me up all the time, and thank the Lord right now they're sweet to each other. Last night in the bathtub, I said, "I sure am glad we have Eli." Sawyer said, "Me too. I love him so much!" Sweet boys!!!

Eli has been "Brrmmmm(ing)" for a couple of months. I think he's going to be into tractors as much as Sawyer. He loves to push them around and say, "BRMMMMM!"

I've never had a snuggly baby. They're both wigglers, but as of last week, Eli's been snuggling up to me! I love it! Happy 11 month, little E! :)

Peace

2009-09-22T20:33:00.001-07:00

Most of you know my niece Caroline had major heart surgery today. I'm SO THANKFUL to report that everything went well!
Honestly, I don't know why, but it all of a sudden hit me last night about the magnitude of the surgery. (Kind of slow, I know!) But to put myself in Katie and Scott's shoes, and how would I handle it??
A PRECIOUS, TINY, ANGELIC little baby having surgery. What in the world to people do without faith in our Heavenly Father? The one who made us in His image for His glory. I don't know. I can't fathom that. I don't understand how anyone thinks that we are in control on this Earth, and it also makes me sad for people that don't have the same kind of faith. It breaks my heart for people that I know have had similar situations, but they were only relying on what they could see (doctors, themselves, medicine, others, etc).

Days like today make me stop and realize how BIG He is and how small we are, and it makes me think about what is important.
Katie wrote a post tonight about a peace that passes understanding. I think her life right now is exemplifying the peace that only God can give, because I know they aren't just words that she's writing. She's really honest about how she feels, and how else can it be explained but God? You can read more here. I'm in awe of it all! THANK YOU, LORD!

We can all have it. We only have to ask Jesus to be the Lord of our life and claim His truth. That's what Katie and Scott have done, and now they're able to walk in the faith that they have.

"And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4:7

John 14:27
"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful. "

Obviously, God allows trials and hard times to come, but we can either walk through those valleys in our own strength (and I sure don't want that!) or we can choose to walk in His.
I'm off to bed. I'm thankful for a peace tonight to rest.
Night-night, friends!

Our Turnip Garden

2009-09-21T05:51:00.000-07:00

Walker & Sawyer planted turnip seeds Saturday morning before our football watching began. I don't know if it's because Sawyer is a boy or if it's because he's like Walker, but he would rather be "working" than doing anything else! If you can't tell by the pictures, he is SERIOUSLY working! I like this about my sweet boy! We bought him a new rake at Lowe's Friday night, and he was ready to put it to good use Saturday morning. I don't like to eat turnip greens, but I'm excited to see these grow.

I should add that I adore this man!!!! REALLY! I love watching him with these two boys!

Also....a little update on my big boy's imagination, so I'll remember! They're building a house across the street from us, and there's a bulldozer parked across the street. We take him to climb on it in the afternoons when the workers go home, and he pretends that he has keys to drive it. Yesterday morning Sawyer and I were headed to church, and he starts telling me, "Oh no! I left my (imaginary) keys." He is UPSET about this, so I tell him we'll get them when we get home. That doesn't work, so I say, "Hold on. I'll tell that (imaginary) man over there to throw them to us." So, I act like I'm catching them and hand them to him. Sawyer takes the imaginary keys and puts them in his pocket and is perfectly happy.

It's HILARIOUS to me! It's definitely something all the time!

And here's my other sweet boy who is sick right now :(

We are suppose to be on our way to Hartselle right now, but unfortunately sweet Eli has been a little sick. He's had a fever and runny nose, so we're staying here until he's better. We're praying for Caroline who checks into the hospital at lunchtime today. I hope to go north in the morning!

The Braddock Girls

2009-09-14T20:25:00.000-07:00

Shelby, Julia, Grace in the back

Caroline's on the front row

Katie JUST sent me this picture. Aren't they cute? Sweet Caroline is having her heart surgery a week from Thursday, the 22nd. Allyson and I are taking our boys North next Monday so we can go be with them. That little girl in the bed is about the sweetest thing I've seen! Had to share!