The Good Life

iPad

2012-02-09T15:22:00.003-05:00

Like father, like daughter.

She loves, and absolutely knows how to use, the iPad.

Smiles

2012-02-09T15:20:00.003-05:00

His smiles are even better in person.

Bath Time

2012-02-09T15:13:00.005-05:00

Like Elizabeth around this age (8 weeks), Jacob seems to like, or at least tolerate, baths. He likes the warm water being poured over him, but squeezes his little fists so tight that his hands start to turn purple.

The top picture is Jacob and the lower picture is Elizabeth when she was 8 weeks old as well.

What We've Been Up To ...

2012-01-30T13:42:00.003-05:00

Me and the (adorable) reason why I look tired:

Brad and his blue-eyed boy:

Trying to get a good picture of Jacob smiling, but not succeeding:

Elizabeth helping dust:

Eating Legos and entertaining Jacob:

Playing dress up:

Two Kids

2012-01-17T13:57:00.003-05:00

Jacob and I joined Elizabeth while she was playing with her tea set and Calico Critters playhouse. I took a picture of Jacob and then Elizabeth got down on the floor by him to be in the picture too.

Of her own volition, Elizabeth moved her stool in front of Jacob and started to read a book to him. When Jacob starts crying, Elizabeth's usual response, besides telling me that he's crying, is to get near Jacob's head and "shhh" him and give him a kiss. At least she cares and tries.

Elizabeth used to give us a similar look when she was a baby. Jacob is starting to give us smiles and coos.

Big Sister

2012-01-13T13:52:00.003-05:00

Elizabeth gives Jacob many, many kisses each day. She still asks to hold him. Here she is trying to entertain him with his toy:

And sharing her toys with him:

Tummy Time with Jacob

2012-01-08T16:35:00.003-05:00

I took these pictures almost a week ago, when Jacob was three weeks old. He is a pretty good baby and content most of the time. His neck strength is about where Elizabeth's was at two months. :) Even the pediatrician commented on how strong his neck was at his two week appointment. Other differences from (baby) Elizabeth: he loves to stand and isn't super into his pacifier.

More Activities with the Grandparents

2012-01-08T16:23:00.006-05:00

Friday was the BYU bowl game and the Steamtown Railroad Museum for everyone but me and Jacob.

On Saturday, Brad took his parents to see where he works. We went out for a great Italian dinner and then headed home for sparklers and Martinelli's for an early New Year's Eve celebration.

On Sunday, we blessed Jacob.

Jacob and Brad just after Jacob's blessing.

Everyone home from church!

Sparklers on New Year's Eve!

At the train museum. I was at home with Jacob, but apparently, Elizabeth started crying when Brad took off the hat and scarf. So, what would any good grandparents do? Yup ... they bought Elizabeth her own hat, train whistle and book.

Checking out the caboose.

Grammy reunited with her east coast grandchildren.

Grammy holding Jacob for the first time!

Philadelphia

2012-01-01T11:39:00.005-05:00

Brad's parents have been in town since Tuesday. On Wednesday, Marilyn, Elizabeth and I saw The Nutcracker. It was a well-done production and Elizabeth was entranced for the entire two hours. I think this might be an annual tradition.

On Thursday, we headed down to Philadelphia. We went to the Please Touch Museum, which kept Elizabeth entertained for a few hours. Then we had cheesesteaks at Jim's. Brad made amends with Marilyn by finally taking her to the Betsy Ross house. We ended the day with a stop at the King of Prussia mall (and of course an additional 45 minutes on to our commute home because of an accident somewhere ahead of us).

Trying to suppress a smile ... I'm not sure why.

Elizabeth made sure all of the boats were right side up and weren't water-logged.

In front of the Betsy Ross house with Grammy.

Corning Museum of Glass

2012-01-01T11:27:00.004-05:00

On Monday, we headed up to the Corning Museum of Glass. This was our second time visiting, but Elizabeth was only six months old last time so we decided to go again since Brad had some time off of work.

Christmas 2011

2012-01-01T11:23:00.004-05:00

We were all excited to see what Santa brought Elizabeth Christmas morning!

Jacob closing his eyes because of the flash.

One of many gifts from the grandparents.

The Kids

2011-12-22T13:27:00.003-05:00

Elizabeth in her Christmas dress.

Elizabeth asks pretty much every day to hold the baby.

Finally able to leave the hospital!

Elizabeth Meets Jacob

2011-12-12T11:27:00.000-05:00

Jacob Donald Williams

2011-12-11T22:35:00.000-05:00

12/11/11 at 7:37pm. Seven pounds, eight ounces. Twenty inches.

The Electric City Trolley Museum

2011-12-11T09:32:00.001-05:00

Unbeknownst to many, Scranton was the first U.S. city to successfully incorporate a continuously operating electrified streetcar (or trolley) system (circa 1886). To recognize the historical significance of this event, the City of Scranton operates the Electric City Trolley Museum. All visitors are welcome (after paying the $6 admission fee - kids 3 and under are free) to the museum to view historically related trolley artifacts such as old trolley cars, rusty metal parts and glass wire insulators that look like glass wire insulators.

Although Andrea and I could hardly contain our excitement about looking at metal and glass, we ultimately defaulted to spending most of our time in the children's area where there were several "kid-friendly" trolley-related set-ups/exhibits. Elizabeth had a great time pretending to be a trolley driver, playing with the model trolley city, and pulling several cords that led to ringing bells.

Elizabeth with her right hand at the ready to alert oncoming traffic by ringing the "trolley" bell.

Multi-tasking - talking to the conductor (or maybe one of the grandmas and Popa) via the walkie-talkie and continuously ringing the trolley bell.

In addition to visiting the museum, we were able to go on an actual trolley ride. Surprisingly, the ride was much better than I expected as we sailed through a portion of downtown Scranton, went through a mile-long tunnel, passed through the woods that parallel I-81 and ended just outside the right field boundaries of PNC Field, home of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (AAA affiliate of the New York Yankees). Although no wild life was seen while traveling through the woods, we did see several fluorescent orange vested/capped hunters walking around (it is hunting season in Northeast PA after all).

Outside the trolley.

Inside the trolley. It was very nicely restored and Elizabeth really enjoyed the one-hour round trip to Moosic and back.

Now we're (minus Elizabeth) kicking back in Moses Taylor Hospital waiting for Andrea to give birth to Jacob. I'm soooo thankful I don't have to give birth to our children.

Lately ...

2011-12-02T13:07:00.004-05:00

Elizabeth got pink chalk on the wall last night, so I whipped out the Magic Eraser this afternoon to clean it up. While I was cleaning, Elizabeth went and got the other rubber glove, put it on, grabbed a sponge and started wiping the walls with me. I just turned around and there she was. She also loves to sweep and wipe up spills. I know this won't last, but it's pretty darn cute right now (too bad she didn't clean the chocolate from her face after her cookie).

Brad is back in the YM Presidency. He took Elizabeth with him to mutual on Wednesday, so I could have a bit of down time. The youth played glow-in-the-dark volleyball and Brad grabbed some of the goods for Elizabeth to wear. She also said "uh oh" every time someone missed the ball.

Getting Ready ...

2011-11-28T13:08:00.005-05:00

Our Christmas tree is up and decorated.

Brad getting the tree ready to decorate. We felt like we were back in California ... Brad wearing a T-shirt to buy a Christmas tree? Eating lunch outside (Elizabeth in the background)? Love it!

Elizabeth was a busy little worker putting up a lot of the ornaments.

Checking out the light show at Nay Aug Park.

We passed these two homes just after exiting the light display at the park. They definitely give Clark Griswold a run for his money.

Less than two weeks left!

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-26T09:53:00.005-05:00

Elizabeth really enjoyed the singing and dancing during the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. We'll be there in person next year!

Then we headed off to a local park.

Elizabeth wanted us to "run round and round in a circle" with her.

We joined several friends for Thanksgiving dinner later on. We had a great time together as a family.

First Time ...

2011-11-19T09:31:00.002-05:00

Painting Elizabeth's fingernails. I'm not sure why it took me so long to do it. She'd notice every time I painted my nails.

And she wanted her "piggy toes" painted too.

Is it just me, or does she look older now?

Daddy-less Saturday

2011-11-14T13:32:00.004-05:00

Well, it wasn't a complete Brad-less Saturday, but he did have to work from home most of the day. Thank goodness the Steamtown National Historic Site was free this weekend. We went to see the trains and ride the train earlier this summer, but Elizabeth can't get enough of trains, so we headed over in the morning to give Brad some quiet time.

Just being silly.

Playing underneath one of the exhibits.

Happy Birthday Brad!

2011-11-02T13:09:00.004-04:00

It was Brad's birthday yesterday. He had a fabulous day of going to work. But we celebrated once he got home. Elizabeth was so excited to show him the balloons decorating his chair, the presents and the card we made for him. We ate a Brad-requested dinner, sang "Happy Birthday" and ate cake. Then promptly ran off to our postponed ward Halloween party. Brad opened up gifts after we got home, well, one Elizabeth got to before him. Brad received many cards, phone calls and emails during the day. As I've told him before, Elizabeth and I are blessed to have him as a husband, dad and best friend.

Our little dance machine at the ward Halloween party.

Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T08:07:00.002-04:00

Trick-or-Treating around the neighborhood!

Elizabeth would get shy once the door opened and wouldn't say "trick-or-treat" (or tricky treat as she says it), but she wasn't shy when it came to taking the candy. One neighbor even had full sized candy bars! We ended the night with dessert ... dirt and worms.

More Halloween Events

2011-10-31T13:37:00.004-04:00

Our ward Halloween party on Saturday was postponed until Tuesday because of this:

But, we still had a party to attend on Saturday afternoon that was given by one of Brad's co-workers.

Elizabeth had a great time. There was a TON of candy, balloons, stickers and little creatures that she took home in her basket. Lots of fun activities for the kids!

Then, Brad and I tag-teamed to create this jack-o-lantern.

Playgroup Halloween Party

2011-10-27T13:52:00.003-04:00

I love the playgroup we have here. Great women and great kids. We put together a Halloween party for the kids today. They did tons of things: pin-the-nose on the pumpkin, a cake walk, pumpkin ring toss, mummy wrap, coloring, Halloween singing, Halloween stories and decorated cookies. Plus, the usual running around. Two more parties to go, then Halloween. You'll be seeing more of this costume.

My sweet little puppy. Half the time she had the hood on, and half the time it was off.

Pinning the nose on the pumpkin! Her eyes were supposed to be closed. She got an orange spider ring for a prize!

Her finished decorated cookie. I love how she put the candy corn sticking straight out.

Munching (probably too delicate of a word for what she's doing) on her mini-cupcake from the cake walk.

Playing Around

2011-10-25T08:07:00.001-04:00

Elizabeth decided to empty out her stuffed animal basket and hop inside.

Elizabeth's Gym

2011-10-20T14:43:00.002-04:00

I took Elizabeth to a free trial gym class this morning. It was an hour long and she had a blast. The trampoline was her favorite by far, but she also went into the ball pit, up and down inclined boards, a swing, jumped from one pad to another and other skills.

Decorating Cupcakes

2011-10-18T16:35:00.002-04:00

Getting into the Halloween spirit!

Recent Sewing Projects

2011-10-18T16:31:00.003-04:00

I finished these projects awhile ago.

Elizabeth's quilt for her twin bed we just bought for her:

And Christmas stockings for our soon-to-be family of four:

Family Fun at Roba's

2011-10-01T15:42:00.000-04:00

Today we went to Roba's Family Farm to pick pumpkins, among other things.

Which pumpkin to you want, Dad?

This one?

Mom being a good sport and jumping with Elizabeth on the pumpkin balloon jump. Elizabeth giggled the entire time.

Getting ready to go on the Kiddle Kattle ride ... a favorite from last year. Brad had the honor of squeezing in with Elizabeth this time.

This is the one!

So brave ... feeding the lamb with Dad.

What, no more?

Bunnyville!

My favorite animal.

Helping Dad haul our three pumpkins to the car.

Claws and Paws

2011-09-20T13:22:00.006-04:00

On Monday, we went to the nearest zoo, which is actually more like a wild animal park since we were soooo close to the animals. Elizabeth loved it and saw quite a variety of animals.

Feeding the giraffes. Elizabeth wasn't super into the giraffe's drool, but kept asking to touch the giraffe after she gave him a carrot.

There weren't many people at the park, so we got to feed the giraffe many times.

Elizabeth attempting to give the tiger a leaf. Can you tell how close we were?

The first animal we saw that day was a tiger, born in April.

Giving me her tiger impression.

Checking out the silly otters swimming.

Watching the cougar pace inside his closure.

Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour

2011-09-20T13:15:00.005-04:00

On Saturday, we went on the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour. It's something Brad has been wanting to do since we moved here. The mine was in operation for just over 100 years and stopped active mining in 1966. The coal was for home consumption only. We went 300 feet under ground for the tour. It's a constant 53 degrees year-round. Truly frightening work conditions, but an enlightening experience.

Taking the "train" down and up the mine.

Elizabeth didn't mind the darkness at all.

Of course Brad held her most of the time so she wouldn't wander off.

Part of the mine we walked through.

Dress Up

2011-09-20T12:56:00.006-04:00

My mom has been visiting for the past week. She brought several gifts for Elizabeth. We discovered, through her time in nursery, that she likes dress up. So, my mom bought a dress up set for her.

Eagerly awaiting the goods.

Checking out the dresses.

And the jewelry.

And actually dressing up. She even wore the pink outfit over her pajamas to bed that night. I limited it to the one night though.

Labor Day Weekend

2011-09-05T12:56:00.008-04:00

We went to the Navy football season opener against Delaware on Saturday. We had lunch at one of our favorite spots in Annapolis, The Pennsylvania Dutch Market, and then headed over to the game to meet-up with some friends.

The next day, on our way home, we stopped at the Hershey Factory in Hershey, PA to take a tour.

It was a little humid, but that didn't stop Navy from scoring on their first drive and ultimately beating Delaware!

It was a sell-out crowd and a great football atmosphere.

Checking the game out.

Cheering the Midshipmen on with Charlie.

Elizabeth loves babies, so she was thrilled to touch Lilly's hands and feet.

Post-game wearing mom's Navy hat.

It was crazy busy at Chocolate World but we had a good time on the tour and grabbed one container of mixed chocolates.

So serious while learning how chocolate is made on the tour. Elizabeth liked the singing cows and pointing out the milk and chocolate streaming into pipes.

Getting ready to board the cars for the tour.

Crayola Factory

2011-08-27T15:55:00.003-04:00

We met-up with one of Brad's classmates from Cornell and his family at the Crayola Factory. The kids had a great time playing and exploring and the adults liked catching up.

Elizabeth coloring and molding the modeling clay.

Daddy tracing Elizabeth's foot on the chalkboard floor.

Coloring with chalk with James and Elizabeth.

Glow-in-the-dark markers ... which look better without the flash.

Taking a boat through a canalway ... an additional museum attached to the Crayola Factory.

Harford Fair

2011-08-24T13:15:00.004-04:00

A friend invited us to join them at the Harford Fair on Monday afternoon, so we did. The husbands met-up with us later, but we had a blast checking out all of the animals and exhibits.

Elizabeth milking a PRETEND cow. I couldn't believe she did it. She had no qualms about it and it was hilarious to watch. Good for her!

Holding hands with Savannah. Elizabeth and the Major kids get along really well.

Checking out the piggies.

Trying to fed some straw to a goat.

Seeing a lot of cows.

In the evening we watched a truck pull competition. It got pretty loud at times. Quite an interesting experience.

This guy won one of the races. We thought the name was interesting to say the least.

Friends

2011-08-15T12:34:00.000-04:00

On Friday, we met up with friends at a park to help celebrate a first birthday. I brought some bubbles for the kids to play with and, as you can tell, Elizabeth loved spraying the birthday boy with them. We're thrilled to have so many fun friends here in PA!

All Girl

2011-08-11T13:50:00.000-04:00

Elizabeth modeling the skirt I made for her.

At storytime today, the kids made flower crowns like the ones worn in Siesta Babies (the theme today was Mexico). Flowers are right up someone's alley. She wore the crown in the library, on the drive home, into the post office and took it with her for her nap.

She Loves Her Daddy

2011-08-11T13:41:00.000-04:00

If only there was sound attached to these pictures .... Elizabeth was laughing uncontrollably because Brad kept leaning back into her. The little things.

Eagles Training Camp

2011-08-07T14:42:00.001-04:00

We went to the Philadelphia Eagles Training Camp yesterday in Bethlehem, PA. It was an early morning for us, but we had a great time. Elizabeth was soooo good and loved clapping when everyone else clapped. And looking for the football on the field. We're not necessarily Eagles fans, but it's pretty cool seeing professional athletes do their thing.

Michael Vick running onto the practice field. He's the only one that received applause.

Elizabeth giving me some love and getting into the action on the field.

An offensive drill with Vick as the QB.

Meeting Swoop.

Library

2011-07-27T14:14:00.000-04:00

We've been going to the weekly library story time pretty much since we moved here. Elizabeth eats it up (especially the puzzles, train table, Lego table and stuffed animals spread throughout the library that she runs to after story time). After the stories, the kids make a craft dealing with the theme the stories were about that day. Last week the theme was fish and it was the first craft that Elizabeth actually obsessed over (the fish needed to be in the crib with her for her nap that day).

Arriving in Early December

2011-07-19T13:54:00.001-04:00

Nay Aug Park

2011-07-16T13:03:00.001-04:00

We visited a new park (for us) in Scranton this morning. There's a huge tree house, playground and lots of space for Elizabeth to run and explore.

In the tree house.

At the playground.

Running free.

Nature Scavenger Hunt

2011-07-14T13:14:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, Elizabeth and I went on a nature scavenger hunt around the outside of our house. Since Elizabeth loves being outside and collecting things, it was a success. She collected flowers, rocks and leaves and gave me the twigs and dead leaves to hold. Hmmm. After she finished collecting items in her bucket, she took them out one by one and laid them on the porch and said the name of each thing as she did so. And then put them all back in the bucket to do it again.

Showing me what she's collected so far.

NYC

2011-07-14T12:14:00.000-04:00

We visited Adam, Mary Ann and Corinne over the weekend. I'm thrilled that they are in NYC for the summer and that it's only two hours away! It was a quick trip, but definitely worth it. We ate at some places we had never been to before: The Shake Shack, Kitchenette and Magnolia Bakery. We walked across the Brooklyn Bridge, saw "Midnight in Paris," went to church at the chapel by the Lincoln Center, and enjoyed walking around the city.

We took the subway a lot and Elizabeth was a trooper. She especially liked it when the "trains" came whooshing in and out of the terminal.

Adam and Corinne on the Brooklyn Bridge.

We walked from the Brooklyn side to the Manhattan side. I had only done the reverse before, and at night.

Good looking. The bridge was cool too.

I'm hoping Corinne wanted this hug.

They played so well together.

Adam and Mary Ann live literally across the street from Columbia University, so we walked through the beautiful campus several times on our way to the subway. This is the infamous library as seen in "Ghostbusters."

Helping or Hindering

2011-07-11T13:56:00.000-04:00

Elizabeth loves to be around when Brad is putting something together. She even grabs the hammer and starts whacking away and puts screw where she thinks they should go. Here she is making herself comfortable in a desk drawer.

Pool

2011-07-11T13:44:00.001-04:00

We bought a small wading pool for Elizabeth since she loves being outside and splashing and playing in the water. She ate it up.

Fourth of July 2011

2011-07-05T12:52:00.001-04:00

We went to our ward pancake breakfast in the morning and then headed to a fair in Wilkes Barre with some friends in the afternoon.

Proud to be an American!

We passed by this game at the fair and Elizabeth was drawn in by the water, so we let her play one game.

In true toddler fashion, she was more into picking out a toy prize than the game itself.

And the winner is ... a pink duck.

There were also pony rides, which were expensive, so Brad and Elizabeth just pet and fed the ponies.

Pre-Fourth of July Fireworks

2011-07-03T16:42:00.000-04:00

On Saturday, we had a picnic dinner and watched fireworks with some other members of our ward. We really enjoyed getting to know people better and letting Elizabeth run around and watch the fireworks. She was in bed for the fireworks last year.

Everyone loved her dancing.

Not So Sure About Water

2011-07-03T16:36:00.000-04:00

I took Elizabeth back to a local park that has a water/splash pad. The last time we were there, when she was fully clothed, she was definitely interested in getting wet. However, once she was in a swim suit, she wouldn't go near the water.

Seriously not so sure.

This is what she ended up wanting to do despite my best efforts to entice her into the water.

A Two-year Old

2011-07-03T16:27:00.000-04:00

At least it was washable marker.

Lackawanna State Park

2011-06-27T13:31:00.000-04:00

On Saturday, we headed over to Lackawanna State Park, where there is a playground, swimming pool, boat rentals, tons of grass and hiking trails. Of course, as we were out exploring, a sudden rain storm hit. We ended up eating lunch at a picnic table under a bunch of trees while getting mostly wet. We look forward to going back without the rain and hiking and maybe even going out on the lake in a boat.

She's all girl. She must pick a flower when she sees one and usually picks one for each hand. She picked two for me that day.

New Park

2011-06-27T13:23:00.000-04:00

On Friday, Elizabeth and I went to a local park. Elizabeth loved the swing, even though it's hard to tell in the picture. It's tough to get her to smile for pictures now. Anyway, good times at the park. There's a water pad/park there too, which we're probably going to hit up later this week.

Summer

2011-06-21T15:23:00.000-04:00

Today is the summer solstice and summer is my favorite season. I love the sun, being outdoors, picking fruit, going to parks, BBQing and eating outside. Yesterday, Elizabeth and I went over for a playdate and lunch at a new friend's house. After her nap we opened up packages from the grandmas and blew bubbles on the front porch. Today we went to playgroup at a park and enjoyed meeting some new people. So far, thumbs up to summer and Clarks Summit.

Father's Day 2011

2011-06-21T14:39:00.001-04:00

Another great Father's Day to celebrate Elizabeth's all around fabulous dad! After church, while Elizabeth was napping, I grilled steaks. I know, I grilled steaks. It was my first time grilling steaks and they were by far the best steaks I have ever made. Hallelujah. We added baked potatoes and green beans and loved eating outside on our new patio furniture.

Books for Father's Day. And Michael Lewis' latest one to come in October.

Elizabeth was more interested in Brad's present than a kiss from him.

We love you!

Steamtown National Historic Site (Railroad Museum)

2011-06-21T14:33:00.000-04:00

Elizabeth LOVES trains, and Scranton has a very popular national railroad park which we thought would be perfect for Elizabeth. We headed over on Saturday and Elizabeth immediately started pointing out all of the choo choos.

We took a 30 minute train ride. Such a big girl.

This is the train we went on for our ride. Yup, it burns coal. But not Pennsylvania coal because it has too much sulfur. Tennessee coal. Who knew.

Elizabeth loved all of the interactive things to do inside of the museum.

Thrilled to check out another choo choo.

Just before we heard the "all aboard!"

Strawberry Picking

2011-06-21T14:16:00.000-04:00

There's a darling u-pick strawberry farm not even 10 minutes from our house. We went on Friday and picked enough strawberries for 6 jars of homemade jam, homemade strawberry ice cream, frozen strawberries and fresh strawberries. We'll definitely be going back.

By a little creek after picking strawberries. One of my new favorite pictures.

On the tractor ride over to the field for picking.

Elizabeth lasted about 10 minutes until she started to eat the strawberries. Do you see the gorgeous rolling hills in the background? Welcome to Clarks Summit.

Elizabeth really wanted to help but she wasn't very particular about which strawberries she picked.

And of course, she managed to sit on some strawberries while we were out in the field. Good times.

Arizona Williams Family Reunion

2011-06-19T16:09:00.000-04:00

The Williams family spent about 4 days at a cabin in Payson where it was much cooler than Scottsdale. We had a good time relaxing, reading, watching movies, watching the cousins move constantly and going on runs/walks.

Marilyn had the fun idea of bringing a parachute for the grandkids to play with. Elizabeth was totally into it.

Celeste LOVED running under the parachute. Elizabeth soon joined her. She just couldn't resist.

The grandkids also went fishing in a baby pool. Elizabeth didn't want to go inside and by the end of the day she was soaked.

This was a constant during our stay: Jack and Elizabeth chasing each other.

Scottsdale

2011-06-19T15:48:00.000-04:00

We visited Brad's family in Arizona for a week for a family reunion. Before the official reunion started, we spent a couple of days in Scottsdale at the McCormick Ranch Railroad Park, feeding ducks, shopping and eating out.

Elizabeth fed herself as well as the ducks.

With Papa and his train. Elizabeth had a daily visit to the train with Papa.

Rockefeller Birthplace

2011-06-17T22:22:00.000-04:00

The day we moved from Ithaca to Clarks Summit (a whole 2 hours away), Brad and his dad stopped by Richford, NY to see the birthplace of John D. Rockefeller. Brad was reading a book about Rockefeller and discovered that his birthplace was only about 20 minutes from Ithaca. Who knew.

This plaque and the house foundation are all that remain.

Post-graduation

2011-06-05T16:18:00.001-04:00

Walking around Cornell Plantations.

On Sunday, Brad picked up his diploma and is officially finished!

Brad's Business School Graduation

2011-06-05T15:58:00.001-04:00

On May 28th, Brad graduated from the Samuel Curtis Johnson Graduate School of Management at Cornell University. We started off the day listening to Rudy Giuliani give the convocation address in the football stadium. Then we moved to the basketball arena for the Johnson School recognition ceremony, where Brad was recognized individually. Of course Elizabeth missed her nap but she was sooooo good during both of the ceremonies. Once we finished with the last ceremony, she conked out.

Elizabeth was exhausted, but we are so proud of Brad and happy to support him on graduation day!

With Brad's parents who flew in from Scottsdale.

With (some) of my side of the family. Elizabeth still oblivious to the world.

Brad (and Elizabeth) walking across the stage.

I saved the DVD player for the second ceremony since I knew she'd already have sat through one ceremony and it was past her nap time. She was silent and I was so proud of her too.

Matching with Gammy Williams.

Listening to Rudy Giuliani speak at the convocation.

Cornell Campus Tour

2011-06-05T15:41:00.000-04:00

My brother, sister-in-law and niece arrived the day before Brad's graduation (they are in NYC for his MBA summer internship), so we gave everyone a tour of Cornell's campus.

Touching the ivy at an Ivy League with Corinne and Aunt Mary Ann.

Chalk in hand in a Sage lecture room.

On campus with McGraw Tower in the background.

Seward House

2011-05-29T14:58:00.001-04:00

Once Brad's parents arrived, we traveled to Auburn to visit the Seward House. Seward was a lawyer, U.S. senator, NY governor and ran for the Republican nomination against Lincoln. He was actually favored to win the nomination. He was an abolitionist and lived two miles from Harriet Tubman's home and sold her land to her. Seward went on the be Secretary of State under Lincoln and Johnson. He negotiated the purchase of Alaska. The home and tour are a hidden gem. It was one of the best things we've done since living here in Ithaca.

On our way to start the tour.

Elizabeth was distracted by the ducks in the garden.

Hanging out with Grandpa Williams

Fireplace mantel that was crafted by Brigham Young in his youth.

Taughannock Falls Again

2011-05-29T14:45:00.000-04:00

On Thursday, we visited Taughannock Falls with my mom and then hit up Cayuga Lake Creamery.

Grandma Salow Visiting

2011-05-25T20:02:00.000-04:00

My mom flew in on Friday and we've been busy showing her around Ithaca and even took a quick trip down to Maryland. We went to the Farmer's Market, Stewart Park, Cornell's campus and Fall Creek so far (not to mention Carriage House for lunch, Northstar for bread pudding and Wegmans). Then we drove down to Annapolis and spent time touring the U. S. Naval Academy and downtown and hit Fort McHenry in Baltimore on the way home. More family comes tomorrow and Friday for Brad's graduation.

On the waterfront in downtown Annapolis.

Walking around charming downtown Annapolis with the capitol in the background.

Ummmm ....

At the WWII memorial with the U.S. Naval Academy in the background.

Watching the color parade.

In front of Bancroft Hall.

Going down the stairs in Bancroft Hall.

At Cantlers after eating Maryland Blue Crab and seeing the crabs in the containers to the left in this picture.

On the periphery of Fort McHenry, the birthplace of the National Anthem.

Inside the prison.

Inside the commanding officer's quarters.

The flag behind Brad is in the same place as it was when Francis Scott Key wrote the "Star-Spangled Banner" while watching the bombardment of the fort from onboard a British ship as a prisoner. Fort McHenry is in the shape of a five-pointed star. We're at one of the points in this picture.

In front of a copy the original draft of "The Star-Spangled Banner." The original was in the visitor's center as well but we couldn't use a flash when taking the picture.

Cornell Lab of Ornithology

2011-05-14T15:57:00.000-04:00

We went to the Migration Celebration at Cornell's Lab of Ornithology this morning. We saw some birds of prey, learned about bird migration and how it relates to the birds' diet and Elizabeth got her hand painted.

Elizabeth and her friend Tucker looking for ducks.

Elizabeth getting a flower painted on her hand.

Meeting Dan the Dolphin. The green tie around Elizabeth's wrist is her getting "tagged" like a bird.

National Museum of Play

2011-05-14T15:46:00.001-04:00

We went up to Rochester yesterday to visit the Museum of Play that we'd heard so much about. It did not disappoint. Brad and I had a bit of nostalgia seeing the Toy Museum (me with the Barbie dolls and Brad with the Star Wars related toys). Elizabeth loved the Sesame Street exhibit, especially playing the piano in Elmo's World, riding the choo choo, shopping at Wegmans, trying to figure out the hula hoop, riding the carousel and the reading world.

Riding the carousel on our way out.

Helping Dad with the slinky demonstration in the Toy Museum.

Riding the choo choo.

Figuring out what five items she wanted to put in her grocery cart. She ended up with strawberries, two blackberries, a peach, a fig and, randomly, cauliflower.

Scanning the items and checking out.

Giving Cookie Monster and Elmo a ride in the cab.

Checking out the fish at the museum entrance.

Last Day of B School

2011-05-14T15:42:00.000-04:00

Brad had his last final on Thursday! No more finals, papers or presentations! Well, probably more presentations. Elizabeth and I made a candygram for Brad. Congratulations honey!

Elizabeth just woke up from her nap, so she looks a little spacey, but she had a great time "color" dad's poster.

Mother's Day

2011-05-09T20:57:00.000-04:00

Proud to be a mom to this girl!

Buttermilk Falls

2011-05-09T20:51:00.001-04:00

We hit up Buttermilk Falls on Saturday for the first time.

Cornell Campus Flowers

2011-05-03T12:52:00.000-04:00

Brad has been itching to show Elizabeth the flowers on campus, but the weather hasn't been cooperating. Finally, some blooms appeared so we went to check them out.

It didn't take her long to pick her first flower.

She just kept saying "water" over and over.

Swings

2011-04-30T22:30:00.001-04:00

As I near the end of my business school experience, I still recall the very first week of orientation that took place back in August of 2009. My anxious classmates and I learned all about the classes we would take, all the potential corporate briefings we could attend, all the extracurricular activities and clubs we could be a part of, and all the companies that we would try to interview with and ultimately land a full-time job where we could earn "oodles" of money.

"This was going to be an incredibly busy, stressful, and fulfilling time of my life," I thought to myself. Sure, I was a husband and a father of a three-month old, but my time was valuable and I would need to be very proactive at school in order to find success and happiness in the future.

This mentality lasted about two weeks into the school year when one evening after I walked into the door of our apartment, Andrea handed me our daughter Elizabeth and while walking away into the bedroom stated, "your turn." As is ever so often the case, my wife reminded me that I had (and still continue to have) a lot of learning to do in the "how to be a good dad" chapter of life.

Soon after this experience, I realized a very important concept in one's life - balance. Yes, there are times for school work and classes, but there is also a time and a place to be with your family. True, it is not easy to be a father at times. There are many unpleasant tasks to be done, messes to clean up and tantrums to withstand. Fortunately, these "low-points" of parenthood are always counter balanced with periods of giggling, hugs, kissies and laughter, i.e. periods of joy.

I'd like to illustrate one of these "periods of joy." Out in front of our apartment building is a set of swings that Elizabeth, like any other two year-old, loves to be pushed on over and over and over again. One day as I was pushing her on the swing, I decided that I would get on the adjacent swing to swing along with her. As I started swinging back and forth I thought, "man, I haven't been on a swing set like this since my elementary school years. This is kind of fun, albeit a little uncomfortable since my rear end is a little too big for this swing saddle." Then, as I started swinging higher and higher, I turned to look at Elizabeth and saw her face with a huge grin as she giggled and shrieked with joy as she saw her dad acting like a kid again.

This is what it means to be a father.

Thank you Elizabeth for teaching me how to swing again.

Plantations 5K

2011-04-30T14:58:00.000-04:00

Today Brad ran a 5K for the Johnson School. It was a competition among the business school, law school and vet school. Brad killed everyone and got first place (and a gift card!). It was at Cornell Plantations, so Elizabeth and I had a good time looking for flowers.

The champion!

Happy Second Birthday!

2011-04-30T14:37:00.000-04:00

I was Elizabeth's second birthday on Thursday and we celebrated with a party with some friends. The kids decorated balloons when they first arrived. Then we ate cake, Elizabeth opened up presents and the kids played. Good times.

Eating some cake from Dad.

With my sweet birthday girl!

Decorating balloons!

With our friend Natalie!

The party favors.

The Elmo cake I made.

Blowing out the candle with help from Tucker!

Opening up presents.

Easter 2011

2011-04-24T19:47:00.000-04:00

Elizabeth started off Easter with a visit from the Easter bunny and an egg hunt. Then we went to church, had a nice meal and talked with family.

Ready for church.

Checking out her Easter basket (with help from the grandmas and the Easter bunny).

On the hunt ... with pinwheel in tow.

I'm not sure if bubbles were a good idea. Elizabeth loves them, but then she wants us to blow them ALL of the time.

More Easter basket booty ... playdough.

Elizabeth's friend, Madeline, brought by a sweet Easter gift the other day. It was a candy necklace kit. We made it together and she quickly figured out that it was candy.

Easter Egg Hunt

2011-04-21T12:00:00.000-04:00

This morning, we went to playgroup for the Easter egg hunt!

Elizabeth getting ready to brave the hunt.

We had to do it inside since it's crap weather outside.

I was surprised she took as long as she did to collect her eggs, but she had a good time.

Checking out her loot at home.

Cornell Vet School Open House

2011-04-09T14:49:00.000-04:00

Today we went to the annual Vet School Open House at Cornell. It's the oldest veterinary school in the country, and we had a great time discovering all there was to see.

Pointing out the obstacle course for the K-9s.

A crazy big owl.

Andrea, not Elizabeth, petting a gecko native to the Middle East.

Elizabeth was intrigued with the chick but didn't want to pet it. So I did.

She did, however, want to get REALLY close to the lamb.

And pet the lamb too.

She wasn't into petting the chick, but she was into feeling the gargantuan Himalayan camel a carrot.

Um, I was in heaven.

Elizabeth was so good holding her head steady while getting a butterfly painted on her cheek.

Of course, she had to touch it and smear it 4 seconds after she got it.

Following the horse shoes to the farrier (maker of horse shoes).

Lacrosse Game

2011-04-03T14:32:00.000-04:00

We went to the Cornell v. Dartmouth lacrosse game yesterday. We only made it to half-time since the wind was merciless, but Cornell was kicking butt. The final score was 19-8.

Painting

2011-03-31T14:10:00.000-04:00

Painting pictures indoors for the grandmas since Ithaca hasn't figured out that it's spring yet.

Also for the grandmas:

I made these bags for my mom and mother-in-law for their birthdays.

Sciencenter

2011-03-23T13:53:00.000-04:00

It's Brad's spring break and we've been having a lot of fun around Ithaca, even though it decided to snow today (so thought we were past that). Yesterday we went shopping and bought ice cream at Cayuga Creamery. The best ice cream in the area for sure.

Today we went to the Sciencenter and had lunch at the Carriage House. Score one for Ithaca. We will definitely be going back for those fancy sandwiches!

Elizabeth trying to catch the ball riding the wind tunnel.

Elizabeth loved taking the balls and letting the tubes suck them in and pop them out in a container on the opposite wall.

Seeing how gears work.

Elizabeth bowling with her Dad and trying to keep the ball straight.

Grandpa Williams would be proud ... this girl LOVES trains.

Elizabeth had this on repeat: First, take the foam shape out of the container, then ...

put it into the tube to get sucked back into the container. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat.

The trip ended with Elizabeth playing at the water table, and trying to collect as many of the little ducks as she could.

Dragon Day

2011-03-20T20:52:00.001-04:00

On Friday, Elizabeth and I joined Brad for Friday Forum on Cornell's campus. Brad attends every Friday since he's the LDSSA president, and every now and then Elizabeth and I go with him. This Friday also happened to be Dragon Day, where the architecture school builds a dragon and the engineering school builds a (sub-par) phoenix and the dragon parades around campus, taunts the phoenix and then ends up in the quad to be demolished. It's a 110 year old tradition, but it's been watered down over the years. It used to end in a bonfire with the dragon being burned and eggs and tomatoes thrown at the dragon from other schools while it toured around campus. It was a unique experience and I was surprised at the crowd it collected.

The dragon passed and behind me it's taunting the phoenix in front of the engineering building on the left.

Wishing ...

2011-03-07T13:05:00.000-05:00

We were back in California. At least Elizabeth is based on her footwear choice.

And here's why:

Our car after Brad dug it out of several feet of snow. We got slammed all Sunday with snow.

The walkway up to our apartment.

Pig Tails

2011-03-07T13:01:00.000-05:00

I put Elizabeth's hair into pig tails the other day and thought they were a crack-up.

Dancing to Coldplay.

Wearing mom's shoes.

Elizabeth's Future Room

2011-03-07T12:46:00.000-05:00

I made the last of my gum drop pillows, for the time being anyway. I made two for Elizabeth. I'm going to start on a matching quilt for her toddler bed soon, even though she won't move into a bigger bed for awhile.

Already putting it to use.

Where Does She Get It?

2011-03-01T21:13:00.001-05:00

I finished getting ready the other morning, and I came out to find Elizabeth like this:

She did not learn this from me or Brad.

And she loves to put on our shoes whenever a pair happens to be out. She's not picky either ... Brad's boots will do just fine.

Project for Elizabeth

2011-03-01T21:07:00.000-05:00

I made an apron for Elizabeth today, although I think she stole the show.

BYU vs SDSU

2011-02-26T10:38:00.001-05:00

The girls are ready for the BYU vs SDSU basketball game this afternoon. The male figure in the household, however, is more concerned with the Lakers' winning progress at this point.

Bounce House

2011-02-24T12:23:00.000-05:00

Today we took Elizabeth to the bounce house at the mall for the first time. She got a total kick out of it and her static-y hair was pretty hilarious too. I think she liked going down the slides more than bouncing, but it was hard to tell.

Project Update

2011-02-17T13:11:00.000-05:00

I finished making the gum drop pillow (ottoman) yesterday. It's 24" and it's been great in the front room. I'm looking forward to making a couple of 18" ones for Elizabeth's room.

Valentine's Day 2010

2011-02-15T19:38:00.001-05:00

Elizabeth was a blast and had a blast during Valentine's Day this year. I spread red and pink Valentine's Day balloons over the floor, which Elizabeth loved kicking and dancing with and belly-flopping on. I also sent her on a valentine heart scavenger hunt, which she just loved. She's really into collecting things and putting them in a bag or a basket right now, so she ate it up. The grandparents sent her Valentine cards, stickers, an Elmo shirt, Elmo dvd and a puzzle. We had homemade pizza with heart-shaped slices and homemade gummy hearts and chocolate covered peanut butter balls. Good times.

This is what she was doing while I was making dinner. I was laughing the entire time, especially since she included sound effects while body-slamming the balloon.

On the heart scavenger hunt ... and she found another one!

Gathering and dancing with the balloons.

Cornell Wrestling and More

2011-02-12T19:08:00.001-05:00

We've been to two Cornell wrestling meets this year and they have been great. Cornell has a fantastic team, currently ranked no.1, and since Brad wrestled in high school, he gets to re-live a bit of his past. Today we saw Cornell v. Princeton. Cornell won 38-0 and there were an unprecedented four pins.

This Cornell wrestler was the national champion in the 141 weight class last year.

Elizabeth enjoyed some "pop pop" (popcorn) while watching the match.

Elizabeth cheering on Big Red during an earlier meet against Binghamton, which Cornell won decidedly.

The meet was in the evening, so the arena was darkened with the spotlight on the match.

Today, we also went to Mrs. McPuppet. It was a community event and Elizabeth liked the monkey and hippo puppets and a few of the songs.

Project

2011-02-12T17:25:00.000-05:00

This afternoon I made envelope pillow covers for the pillows on our couch, which I have been wanting to do something about for quite awhile. I'm also making a lumbar pillow for the couch, and I have a few more projects up my sleeve. I'm glad these turned out well so I can feel more confident with my next sewing projects.

Front.

Back.

Like Mother, Like Daughter

2011-02-10T12:47:00.000-05:00

That's my girl! Brad was a little disturbed though. She did all the posing herself.

A Husband's Bafflement...

2011-02-07T20:58:00.000-05:00

Every week or so I'll come home or walk into the family room of our apartment and find my wife watching this somewhat new show on Fox called "Glee." The show (and the musical numbers) will catch my attention for a few moments, but after five minutes of watching I always think to myself, "What the hell is this?" Most recently there was a scene where a bunch of "high schoolers" were made up to look like zombies dressed in football uniforms. They actually were playing another high school football team AND they somehow scored a touchdown while chanting "brains."

Also, why is Jane Lynch (who once played a doctor from Chicago Memorial who thought Richard Kimball was innocent) now a sarcastic gym coach filled with one-liners that are borderline worthy for censorship?

Will somebody please help a confused husband understand? Thanks in advance.

An Amazing Show...

2011-02-05T22:42:00.000-05:00

Just finished season 3. One of the greatest shows ever produced...

...and the greatest TV character of all-time.

Dance Machine

2011-01-31T19:08:00.001-05:00

Elizabeth's latest thing is dancing. She likes to dance during "Yo Gabba Gabba!" (thanks to our stay at the Gretler's), children's music and even the closing hymn at church yesterday. It's a blast to watch and makes us love Elizabeth even more. What a personality!

Big Red Basketball

2011-01-23T16:00:00.008-05:00

Saturday afternoon we went to the Columbia v. Cornell basketball game at Newman Arena. We stayed for the first half and enjoyed a close game even though both teams were only making about 40% of their field goals. Unfortunately the Big Red couldn't sustain their slim halftime lead and lost 70-66.

Inside Newman Arena. Yes it looks like a high school basketball gym, but this is the Ivy League we're talking about.

Some on-court action.

Elizabeth getting into the action a bit.

Betts with her dad.

Betts in dual-tasking mode - digging out some fruit snacks and watching the game at the same time.

Yeah Cornell!

Fun in the Snow

2011-01-22T10:57:00.001-05:00

We wanted to try out some of our new Christmas gifts in the snow today, i.e. snow pants, as well as the snowsuit that we bought for Elizabeth over a year ago. Despite the 10 degree temperature, we were able to enjoy a few moments playing in the snow at the park near our apartment complex. Next up...sledding, but first we need to wait until it gets above 20 degrees.

Andrea and Elizabeth on the walkway near the park.

At least we got one smile out of her.

Trying to make snowballs (the snow was too powdery to make anything solid).

Thanks for the snow pants and jackets Marilyn, Craig and Susan. They work great!

BACK IN ITHACA BABY...

2011-01-21T14:43:00.002-05:00

...and dressed accordingly.

Farewell to Arizona

2011-01-21T14:24:00.001-05:00

After visiting my sister's family, we drove back up to my parents' home in Scottsdale, AZ for a few more days before making the big journey back to Ithaca. We were able to celebrate my dad's birthday with him on January 17th (he felt grateful to share his birthday on MLK day this year). As an extra bonus, three out of the six present for the birthday meal had the distinct pleasure of suffering from food poisoning the following two days.

Elizabeth and my dad were two of the fortunate ones that didn't suffer from any type of infectious bacteria so they spent our remaining time in Arizona playing on my dad's model train set in the garage. When not in the garage, Elizabeth would repeatedly point at the garage door from inside the house and say, "choo-choo." My dad could never say no to her requests.

Elizabeth watching the train make its rounds. Notice that her right hand is playing inside a model car filled with sharp tacks and her left hand is holding an old hammer that probably has grease on it from when I was her age. Andrea wasn't supervising at the moment.

Elizabeth trying to explain to Grandpa the finer points of model railroading. And yes, just like what the sign above Betts' head says, "What happens in the garage, STAYS IN THE GARAGE."