big willie style

Remember when you followed me?

2011-08-24T08:06:00.000-07:00

Friends! I blog! I promise! I am just blogging in more than one spot. After Jojo was born I went to work for Faulkner Media Group as their social media marketer. We make marketing materials for financial advisors and real estate agents that feature motion graphic videos. I write their blogs, as well as run their Facebook and Twitter pages. Come follow us to show your support, it would mean a lot.

Tweet with us on Twitter

Follow our blog, Market in Motion: The Revolution in Financial Marketing

One of the greatest things about the internet is the ability to share the things that are most important to us with our friends and family. I feel like supporting blogs and businesses of my friends has been so fulfilling and enriching. Here are a few other sites I think you might enjoy following:

Roxy and Sam are the most stylish couple we know started an Etsy shop selling all of their best vintage finds.

The most physically fit person I know Liz (who is actually in the hospital delivering as I type!), has a fitness blog with great health living tips.

And on a more serious note, our friends Matt and Ani lost their little girl Ruby to a liver disease a few weeks ago and started the Ruby Jane Taylor Foundation in her honor. The foundation will work to get legislation put in place that will save lives through making organ donations more accessible.

Here is a picture of Jojo and I playing this morning after our walk to remind you of how I feel about you.

xoxo

Nathan Carter Williams

2011-06-02T15:39:00.000-07:00

I wrote this post almost a month ago and was not quite ready to post it. But, I wanted to share this sweet little guy with you. I hope you enjoy.

Friends,

This past week on May 28, my nephew Nathan passed away suddenly. It was a hard week here at the Williams home as we prepared for the funeral and reflected on the meaning of life. Nate was one of my dearest friends. He, his parents, Stephen and Jenny and sister, Ashley, have been nothing but wonderful to Brian and I as we have started our own family. They are such great friends.

Below are a few of my favorite photos of Nate. He LOVED his Uncle Brian (he called him "Bian") and I know Brian felt similarly.

This last photo of Nate holding Baby Jo is a killer. We will cherish it forever.

The funeral was amazing. It was filled with memories of Nathan and the amazing life he lived. He loved to tease, joke and play. As I have thought about Nate this week I feel nothing but love. It makes me consider my life and my relationships with those closest to me. He was never offended or moody but always treated everyone the same. What a tribute. It was great to see people come from all over to honor a boy who had touched their lives.

We love Nate and miss him dearly. We know that he, his parents and sister will be together as a family after this life, we know he will live free of any physical challenges he had while here on the earth, we know he is watching over us and sending us love daily. Believing in God and believing in a plan of what happens after life here ends really means a lot when you loose someone you love. I have felt God's love and peace this week, it has been wonderful and hard all at the same time.

We will miss our Nato always, we love him so much. Thanks for letting me share. Love you.

Andrea

(Or as Nate would say, "Anea.")

You go, girlfriend!

2011-05-23T11:32:00.000-07:00

Today I am in love with the internet and the opportunities it offers us. Since having Jo I have been working from home for my Dad doing research and other marketing projects. It has been the best thing for my mental health, has kept me away from the baby blues, and I feel like a better mom every time I take a few hours to work on projects that help me learn. Today I stumbled across this video, a presentation given by Facebook's COO Sheryl Sandberg. I thoroughly enjoyed the advice she gives to women everywhere who are balancing work and home life. Not only is her presentation flawless, she gives the whole thing in 4 inch heels. Impressive!

PS My religious views on gender roles are found here. (Did you know I'm Mormon!?!?)

PSS I wrote a post on Latin feminism a few years ago that I feel like you should read here.

Remember this week?

2011-04-25T06:57:00.000-07:00

Liz came to town and took Jenna away with her. :(
Jo got an Easter package from Gammy.
Jo got more adorable.
Brian was sick so he got to stay home from work a few days and play with us on the couch!
Ali and I took a picture together. This NEVER happens. We realized that although we are always together we never hug and never take pictures together. Get ready for lots of Faulkner sister photos to come. There will definitely be coordinated outfits and maybe even some hugging.Gigi and Jo hung out!
Gigi was interested in Jo for the first time! She immediately grabbed Jo's hair and so we will have to distance them until Jo can defend herself, or until Gigi grows more hair.
The six of us went to Park City on an overnighter. We played Settlers and Brian and I dominated.
Jo was a pretty little Easter egg.
We took a family photo which made our child look enormous.

I love our little family. I also love Motherhood Mondays and this talk about marriage. I also love you. Have a good week.

Remember when I had a baby? Two months ago?

2011-04-14T03:48:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it? Me, a mom!?! Well you better, because although I may never ride a bike again I do have to say that Brian and I made a pretty cute baby. I mean, she is like killer.

We are the total classic new parents. We are beyond worried about every little thing Jo does. We spend HOURS a day holding her, staring at her, talking about how cute we think she is. Brian has her on an exercise routine (this is not a joke in the slightest) and I have created a voice for her that she talks to me in (or in other words, I talk to myself all day). It would be impossible to be more in love.

Love you all.

xoxo

Andrea and Jo too!

Remember when I was really pregnant?

2011-02-05T07:45:00.001-08:00

Hi! Remember when I used to blog? Well here I am, a stay at home wife, ready to give it another go. I have been told by medical professionals that this pregnancy thing will be over fairly soon (although I hardly believe them) and so I feel it necessary to write a few of my thoughts about pregnancy. Here are some people/things who have meant so much to me these past 9 months:

NPR.
Nicolitalias Pizza AND buffalo wings.
My work GFs who always told me I looked pretty and went with me for french toast sticks when I had to have them.
The Snoogle.
My mom and mom-in-law. Both have told me such sweet stories of what being a mom means to them.
Ali, thank you for making things for my baby and being as excited about her coming as I am.
KFC mashed potatoes.
My bathtub.
And of course, my cute husband. In the first trimester he never complained that I only left the house for work. In the second trimester he said things like, "The only place you have gained weight is your stomach." And now, after we get done reading about the stages of labor and I couldn't feel more scared he'll lean over and tell me, "You're going to do awesome." What a guy.

Our original due date was the 15th of this month but was moved to the 25th after our first appointment. Last week they told me she could now come at any time. Yikes. Although I can't wait to have her here to hold and to be with, there is so much of me that wants her to stay in my tummy forever. I just love that right now we do everything together, best of friends.

I really think you are going to want to see her when she gets here, I have a feeling she will be pretty cute. I'll keep you posted, wish me luck!

Here I am, pregnant

2010-12-10T06:57:00.001-08:00

My amazing friend, Heather Norton Mildenstein, took these family photos for us. Thanks Heather, we had so much fun!

So here I am in all of my pregnant glory... enjoy!

Janelle Monáe - Tightrope [feat. Big Boi] (Video)

2010-11-11T10:56:00.000-08:00

I'm back bloggers! I will share more shortly. Enjoy this today!

After a year and a half...

2010-05-30T14:27:00.000-07:00

We have finally hung pictures on our walls! I felt it was worth blogging about. A milestone in our marriage.
Happy June! xo Andrea

fiery hot

2010-05-18T20:37:00.001-07:00

Today I got really worked up. Long day at the office, oil spills in the Gulf of Mexico, traffic, Arizona immigration legislation, that's enough to drive a girl crazy! I came home to a relaxed husband watching Arrested Development reruns on the couch. He was having such a great time I was so happy that he was there and that I am his wife and that he helps me not feel like a crazy. And so I say to all of you: watch more netflix, and love your rommies, it helps with the craziness.

sunday bbq

2010-05-16T19:39:00.000-07:00

We work a lot these days, drive a lot, ride our bikes a lot, and today we even had a bbq with friends. Love you dearly. Happy Summer!

little brother blake and pie and his mission call!

2010-03-22T20:54:00.000-07:00

South Provo can get kinda lonely when your husband is out of town on business. Fortunately I have a little brother at the dorms to come play with me. And fortunately little brother Blake is taking Food 101 at BYU. And fortunately they teach him how to make things like apple pie which he comes and bakes at my house. And fortunately I have an Iphone to document the whole thing.

I got so excited about the pie that I did the pie dance...

Blake whipped the pie out of the oven and then with his hot mitts on did a little pie dance of his own!

Go B-dawg!

And best news of all... Yesterday we found out that this little guy will be reporting July 28th to the MTC to go to the Chile, Vina Del Mar mission! We are thrilled for him and all of those Chilenos who get to enjoy him for two whole years.

Q and A with The Williams

2010-03-14T08:37:00.000-07:00

A spicy interview with The Williams Family to catch up on their lives after months and months of dull posts. Enjoy!

Blogger: We heard you and Brian have new jobs! Where are you working now?
Williams: This is true! Brian started working for City Deals last month doing sales and marketing. He really likes it and is doing awesome there. You should go and check out the site because there are some dreamy deals for those of you in the Utah area. And last week I started at Maggie Sottero. I will also be working on the Sales and Marketing team, but more specifically with the Quinceanera gown line. It will incorporate all of my favorite things: Fluffy dresses, Latinas, and high waisted pencil skirts.

B: That is great! How have you adapted to this life style change? From what I understand you were averaging a few hours a day on Netflix. Will you be able to handle a real job?

W: That is a valid concern, but I am embracing the increased demands on my schedule. Plus, season 4 of Friday Night Lights isn't even on Netflix yet so I figure I might as well work full time until then. Thank you for your concern though.

B: What is this I hear about The Williams Family in a video with over half a million views on YouTube?

W: Oh, well yes that is true! Our friends Eddie and Bree made the video to enter a contest for the best spoof on a Kesha video. If you haven't seen the final product yet, I'll post it below. Brian is C3P0 and I am one of the Trekkie girls who fights at the end. While watching make sure you notice little brother Blake as the security guard and older sister Ali, a Trekkie, with a dance solo!

B: Anything else we should know about? It has been quite some time since you have blogged...

W: Yes, it has been awhile. But we do have more news! Brian was released last week from the Bishopric in our student ward. It is a year long calling that went oh so quickly. He has been such a Bishopric all-star, it will be a definite change not having him serving there any longer. Other than that, I was accepted into the Masters Program at the University of Utah for this upcoming Fall 2010 in Linguistics. Obviously the letter came the same day I got my new fabulous job, so we will just have to see where 2010 takes us. But I am thrilled about the program, and I really like being a Ute. No offense Cosmo.

B: Is there anything you want to leave your readers with?

W: Yes there is! Thank you for not giving up on us these past few months. We love your blogging guts.

if you're wondering where i've been...

2010-03-03T08:57:00.000-08:00

tutoring programs

2010-01-30T09:13:00.000-08:00

Some of you know that I help organize tutoring programs in Utah County. The programs are opportunities for Spanish Speaking congregations, or communities, to bring their children to a chapel or a community center to be tutored. Student wards or individual volunteers who are interested come and volunteer their time weekly to help these kids with homework. The program has grown so much this past year, I have felt lucky to be a part of it. This week BYU Television is airing a program on us! Here are the times:

BYU Television:
Sunday 12:00 am
Wednesday 12:00 pm and 6:00 pm

It will also air on Channel 11 KBYU-TV:
Sunday 3:00 pm
Monday 5:00 am

If any of you are interested in participating or getting your ward involved please email me. The program provides opportunity for service, missionary work, to serve as a mentor, and countless opportunities to play with small Latin children.

Here is a list and the times of the programs we already have in place. Feel free to stop by at any of them to check it out. We would love it!

PROVO

Provo Seventh-day
Adventist Community Center
255 South 700 East
Thursday, 7- 8 p.m.

South LDS Stake Center
440 West 1200 South
Wednesday, 6- 7 p.m.

Grandview East LDS Stake Center
1081 West 1060 North
Wednesday, 6- 7 p.m.

Bonneville LDS Stake Center
85 South 900 East
Tuesday, 7- 8 p.m.

East LDS Stake Center
502 East 200 North
Wednesday 7- 8 p.m.

Franklin Community Center
(Inside the Boulders Apartments)
750 South 650 West
Tuesaday and Thursday, 7- 8 p.m.

Parkway LDS Stake Center
225 West 620 North
Thursday, 6:45- 7:45 p.m.

Provo LDS Stake Center
1745 South State Street
Tuesday, 7- 8 p.m.

HEBER
Heber LDS Stake Center
Chapel 600 South 715 East
Tuesday, 7- 8 p.m.

OREM
Suncrest LDS Stake Center
95 North 600 West
Tuesday, 6:30- 7:30 p.m.

let's hear it for new york

2010-01-03T09:31:00.001-08:00

Friends! We just got home last night from New York and we are so excited to share with you our fun. Confession: we can't get enough of the Jay Z Empire State of Mind video. Feel free to watch it as you view these photos.

Brian's parents and his sister Kim are serving a mission in Queens, New York. They teach classes to young adults on scripture in the evenings and during the day they visit families from a ward they have been assigned to. We spent Christmas day with some of their friends from that ward.

Above: Tim and Alice.

Below: Anita, Mark, and Kim!
While visiting Bob, Carol, and Kim we got to:

Ride into the city and see the Off Broadway Show "Ragtime".

Eat the yummiest Japanese ramen, Kim seriously dominated the chopsticks.

The next day we got to go to church and meet all of the members of the Jamaica Queens ward where our "fearless threesome" serves. They were all as friendly and darling as Briana, Brian's new friend shown above. It touched our hearts to see how they truly love Bob, Carol, and Kim. But it was even more touching to see the way our missionaries loved the people in Queens. We are so proud of them for serving.

We left NYC for a few days to take a short trip to Puerto Rico on the Jetblue. We LOVED Puerto Rico and highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for sunshine, warm water, quaint cities, and an easy getaway. While there we found:

Adorable cobblestone streets filled with little boutiques in Old San Juan. It reminded me of Espana!

The old Spanish military forts.

We were amazed that I can do this!

Beaches, beaches, and more beaches.

We headed back to New York after a small 24 hour detour at the San Juan airport. A volcano erupted on Montserrat, an island nearby in the Caribbean. Our gentle Utah skin was so scorched we couldn't dare brave the beach another day but with some persistence we got ourselves back on another flight to New York so we could spend the New Year with our New York family.

New Years dinner with cute Kirk.

And like true New York tourists, we decided to go to Times Square to watch the ball drop. We didn't go down into Times Square area until almost 10:00 p.m. when there were already 1 million people there. Fortunately we made a few friends and we were able to get close enough to at least see the ball at midnight. Embarrassingly enough I got all choked up at midnight. There were so many people from all over the world with their loved ones, celebrating together. It was really sweet!

I already said it: We are alright being tourists!

My cute cousin Matt let us stay in his apartment in the city (shown above) and so we spent a few days there playing with Kirk and Bob, Carol, and Kim as well. We got to go to the temple, the Empire State Building, dancing in the city, and to H&M of course. We also were invited to eat a traditional German meal at the home of the Bishop out in Queens. It was so delicious it blew my mind! Don't let Brian's face fool you here.

And now we are home, feeling really good about 2010. We can't wait to spend it with you here, or wherever you are vicariously through your blogs! Love, love, love to you this New Year!

i wish you a safe flight and a merry christmas too!

2009-12-20T15:43:00.001-08:00

We have been in code yellow for the last few days at JetBlue. Turns out the week before Christmas wasn't the best week for 15" of snow in NYC and 20" in D.C. Although my I'm sore from sitting in my recliner for so many hours I am happy to say that Jetblue and I fell in love this week.

First there was Teoman, a Marine, his flight from Charlotte to JFK was cancelled and his wife was in the hospital going into labor! He called me from the car to cancel his return flight because although he had already been awake 48 hours he wasn't going to miss the birth of his baby boy waiting for the next flight. He drove all the way there in the middle of the night to see his birth and will be with them for the next two weeks before leaving for a 15 month assignment in Afghanistan. Me+this story=love.

Then there was Grisel, I helped her with seat assignments and she in turn invited Brian and I to come stay with her on our trip to Puerto Rico this next week. She gave me her phone number, and beach recommendations. What a dear.

Michael and I found the only flight open from White Plains to Orlando together, the last seat, we grabbed it right up and both cheered. His job is on the line! He was so relieved that he would be able to be at his work meeting tomorrow, aren't you relieved as well?!? I am very relieved. Very relieved indeed.

Those are just a few of my favorites from the last 48 hours of flight changes. My first few weeks of price quoting to 18 year olds flying between the Dominican and NYC to visit their babies mamas made me a cold hearted reservations assistant. But I think I'm coming around. And after our upcoming trip to NYC for Christmas, Puerto Rico for an overnighter, and then back to NYC for New Years I am sure I will be committed to the jet setter lifestyle.

In other news, Brian Todd turned 29 this week, Stephen made us a headboard out of a door from our basement, I got my GRE scores back, and we have a secret Santa! Brian sums up how we feel about all of these things right here:

Merry Christmas to you and yours. Love, The Williams

its turkey time

2009-11-24T14:23:00.001-08:00

Brian and I leave in just an hour for San Diego for Evan and Megan's wedding. Unfortunately I have not whitened my teeth, developed the necessary tan, or gotten the appropriate Spanks for my bridesmaid dress. Hopefully I will still succeed as a bridesmaid. I just wanted to say I have been so excited all week I can hardly stand it. This year I feel so thankful for Megan, that we have yet another addition to the Faulkner family. On Sunday we were able to have many of the Williams over for dinner to celebrate Jenny's birthday. They are our favorite people, we feel so lucky on to have them close. We are just gobble gobble thankful. So thankful that I got choked up during the Skippy commercial today. You know... the one where she makes her Dad a sandwich? Either way, I am a complete mess. A complete thankful mess. Have a happy week.

training

2009-11-07T21:03:00.000-08:00

Two weeks. 8 pm- 2 am. First the economy, then the swine flu, and now this! 2009 is full of it. I sware.

Don't worry! Solitaire on the iPhone will get me through. Thanks for your concern.

I still love you all so much.

Andrea

enough said

2009-10-22T07:36:00.000-07:00

remember sprinkles?

2009-10-17T21:32:00.000-07:00

Do you have Sprinkles cards yet? I am loving Sprinkles more and more as time goes on, I think it is time gave him a try.

but remember when WE got married?

2009-10-10T11:28:00.000-07:00

Dear lovelies,

Tomorrow is our one year anniversary. We are going on a little get away to Midway tonight to celebrate- thanks Brufords! This past year I have read, talked, and thought a lot about marriage. I can say that in one year I feel like my heart has changed forever. I have become a different person with different opinions, emotions, and a different perspective on love. Can I just say something about marriage for a minute? I just wanted to say that marriage is wonderful. It is hard, confusing, and humbling, it is absolutely wonderful. And can I say something else? I really love Brian Todd. He has made me better, accepted me, and brought so much good into my life. Brian, do you remember when we had 5 jobs, 6 callings, took 200 bike rides, remodeled 1 house, ate 30 $5 pizzas, made 300 trips to Home Depot, and 50 trips to IKEA all in one year? That was fun huh? I'm sure we'll have just as much fun this next year- don't worry. Hopefully less stress and emotional break downs... but we will just have to see.

And so here's to marriage, not the kind they talked about in Julia Robert's movies and Beehives, but the real deal. And for your viewing pleasure, a trailer to our wedding video. I've only watched it 33 times...

Kisses. The Williams

remember marriage?

2009-09-30T07:09:00.001-07:00

So a few weeks ago Evan my darling older brother got engaged to beautiful Megan Kakadelas. Since that time we have had so much fun watching them plan the wedding, fall even more in love, and getting to know her better. I came home from work last week to find the most adorable note in my mail box. It was from Megan and it was a letter with the "Top 10 reasons I want you to be my Bridesmaid." It rhymed, flattered me, and even left me with an opportunity to respond "Yes or No". WHAT? Amazing, it was like I was going to Senior Prom all over again. So naturally I spent days mulling over a response. This is what I came up with- I hope you enjoy. And Megan and Evan- I am so excited for you!

Dear Megan,

I have thought long and hard about your lovely request. How is it possible that I Andrea Grace Todd Faulkner Williams could be so blessed? To be your Bridesmaid on your special day, when you asked I jumped for joy screamed, "YES, OF COURSE" then followed by, "HIP HIP HOORAY!" Now I want you to know that I don't take this job lightly, so here is my list of things I PROMISE TO NEVER do on your wedding day even though I might do them nightly.

First of all I promise to not cry, well not a lot.

I do promise I will not dress like this,

or this,

and especially not this.

I promise to never complain about my shoes,

hair,

or makeup.

I promise to have a good attitude,

and never, ever, fight with Ali.

I’m very excited for November the 28, BTW and I can hardly even wait!

Love, Andrea

remember me? i'm very sick.

2009-09-29T16:24:00.000-07:00

But I can't decide if it is the stomach flu or the Doritos, fries, cheeseburger, and Now and Laters, I ate before 1 p.m. yesterday.

remember keith?

2009-09-15T07:32:00.001-07:00

This week my parents took Ali, Eric, Brian and I to a Keith Urban concert. Mare and Craig had been looking forward to this for a long time but we will admit we didn't even know who Keith Urban was. But the concert was such a party! Keith is such a babe, and such a performer. People were competing in a Keith Urban music video competition. Naturally Alison and I had to enter. We whipped out the IPhone and tried our hardest to memorize the lyrics before we went "on stage" but I am not sure we knew one word when we actually started performing. I hope you enjoy.

remember this week?

2009-08-27T19:35:00.001-07:00

At 11 p.m. I started the dishwasher with Dawn dish soap- not dishwasher soap. Whoops.

I started school -I getting my teaching certificate and eventually master's at the U. I love it. So, so much.

Brian sold 3 homes.

Ali and Eric moved back. We LOVE that they are neighbors.

I sat in a painful 40 hours of job training planning my destinations of where I will jet in the near future.

We gave the old man Andre back scratches again.

We continued the search for wonderful tenants.

We went to weddings, wedding receptions, wedding showers, bridal boot camp bachelor-et parties, and loved all of them.

Here are some pictures from Jordan and Pat's wedding last weekend:

Look at these two! straight out of a JCrew Catalog. We are so happy for them. Their reception was so beautiful and filled with love!

King family Christmas card? YES PLEASE. Do you even know that man Bree? He is creeping me out.

And finally, Dear Leo Patrone, Just because it has been 11 months since we were married we have not forgotten you nor your classic hipster poses. Thanks for all you have given us. Love, The Williams

This week we thought about how we love you all! We miss those who are far- we pray for you always. Let's chat soon. Kisses.

still looking!

2009-08-24T19:51:00.001-07:00

Still looking for renters! It has only been a week but we are eager to get them in. Have you been talking to your friends selling them on 56 south 600 east? Please do!

basement for rent!

2009-08-19T19:31:00.001-07:00

Want this guy as your landlord?? Well now is your chance. We need renters! We will be ready to rent starting next week. Here is the deal:

basement apartment with tons of natural light

$750 a month+utilities

washer dryer

dishwasher

2 huge bedrooms

2 huge front rooms

separate entrance

Please call us if you have a renter in mind. We are preferably looking for a family, but we are open to suggestions.

Love, The Todd Williams

29th ward members:

2009-08-15T22:10:00.000-07:00

Have you emailed Jackie with a thank you note for Bishop. If not... please do! jackiecrane08@gmail.com.

kisses

remember when i loved jenna? and nacho libre?

2009-08-13T07:56:00.000-07:00

hi dearest

8:53amAndrea

hi! a give away for just cook already!!?!? yay!

geez

dont mind me im just on facebook looking at old friends profiles

8:54amJenna

pretty exciting. don't mind me, i just HAVE facebook

8:54amAndrea

yep. yep. i understand

8:54amJenna

just watching nacho libre

eating granola

8:54amAndrea

ME TOOOOOO

HHAHHAHAHAHA OMG

8:54amJenna

HAHAHHAHAHAHAHHA

YES!

8:54amAndrea

not the granola

8:55amJenna

i am laughing my A off over here

8:55amAndrea

im eating yogurt with almonds

only us two

8:55amJenna

gotta love it

8:55amAndrea

liz has worked out for 4 hours by now

8:55amJenna

this is true

8:55amAndrea

britt has ran 32 miles and read 3 books

and here we are

8:55amJenna

i like our plan way better

8:55amAndrea

trying to think of things to blog about

seriously

ohh boy

8:56amJenna

hows your job

and what's your fake name

Jenna

i wish you could see how hard i am laughing at this movie

Jenna

i just love how the skinny man screams

welcome aboard

2009-07-31T10:27:00.000-07:00

I have found it. The perfect job for my part time college life style. Let me introduce you to the newest at home bilingual reservations assistant for JetBlue airlines. "Hola, como le puedo ayudar?" We are already planning trips to Seattle, Colorado, Michigan, New York and San Diego. Good thing I have been talking on the phone since I was 12 for an average of 4 hours a day. I will be completely prepared for at home reservation lifestyle. Love you all thanks for your support during my days of unemployment.

what do you think of this mirror?

2009-07-30T16:41:00.000-07:00

all of the pictures you would ever want to see of us in our swimsuits

2009-07-23T17:22:00.000-07:00

"Rico" the rolling log.
Real funny Jenny.
Brian the banana bully.

Love these little ones.
Kimbob the Waterdog.
The next members of Kiss.
Notice what the shirt says "The Time of Your Life". Thanks Bob.

We had so much fun at Lake Powell and in true William's fashion we are already talking about next year.

big willie style indeed

2009-07-19T06:24:00.000-07:00

"Lake Powell for the Williams is like Christmas for the rest of the world." -Robert Williams

Wish me luck I'm on my very first Williams family Lake Powell trip.We leave this morning and will be back later this week. What do your in laws do? Mine slalom- and all of the children- and all of the grandchildren. We are intense! Here I am below skiing at Utah Lake pretending to be athletic. Don't judge me that I have to fall 6 times before a successful run. Love you all!

remember when we felt famous? just for a minute?

2009-07-17T23:23:00.000-07:00

Look what's out! Our wedding is in the Fall/Winter Southern California edition of Brides magazine. Live in California? Check us out page 140-141! Love you and your guts.

magic babies forever.

2009-07-15T11:20:00.000-07:00

This little one got engaged last night and I could not be happier for her. Congratulations Lex! You have been in my life forever and I can't wait for Sam to join the ranks with Eric, Shaun, and Brian as an honorary magic baby.

i blog again!

2009-07-14T19:20:00.000-07:00

Do you think I'm hip enough to be on Ace of Cakes? If not- will I ever be? I know I can't really frost a cake, but I really feel like they are all so cool. Do you think that I would be that calm and collected if I was being filmed? I went to a wedding this weekend and made friends with the cameraman and photographer in the first hour. I didn't mean to. I am just saying I am comfortable in front of a camera. So maybe I should apply for a job at Charm City Bakery.

I just wanted to let you know- I'm back. And I am ready to be on camera and until then I will be here blogging with you. I've missed you.

confessions

2009-06-30T21:34:00.000-07:00

Tonight I finished the laundry. This week it only took me two days to start and finish the laundry. I felt like that was an incredible accomplishment considering some weeks it takes me up to 6 days to finally get the last load out of the dryer. True story.

Brian has been watching America's Funniest Home Videos daily. Two days ago he started crying from laughing so hard- he just loves watching people run their bikes into poles and hit their crotches time and time again.

I am just now ordering my wedding photos. I am thinking some of you want to order some too (not of us of course! Pictures of you!) If you went or just want to take a look go here to Leo's site. They will go offline pretty soon- let me know if you want to print any off!

This week I died my eyebrows.

When I don't blog I miss this imaginary group of readers- I think about you a lot. What I would say if I was to blog- what I wouldn't say even though I kind of want to.

Today I read this article on LDS.org and I was really inspired. Don't judge me- it's about modesty.

And lastly, I will confess that I am guilty of what I like to call "blog envying". Looking at others lives and thinking- they have it all together- their marriage is perfect- or they probably never eat peanut butter oreo cakesters in the middle of the day like I do. But tonight as I was looking at a pictures of B.T. and I and I felt so happy for the experiences we are having at our own pace one day at a time.

remember when i graduated?

2009-06-15T07:18:00.000-07:00

Yes, well I still am not employed. Suggestions? Leads? Encouragement? PLEASE! Do you think it is sketchy to apply for jobs I find on Craigslist? Don't you want to hire me? I am looking for a job that:
Is part time
Involves talking to people- preferably in Spanish for a portion of my days
Does not require me to wear a hair net
Does not require me to work a lot of evenings
Does want to pay me more than Utah's minimum wage.

I'm sure you guys will think of something- thanks for your help. Andrea

courage and faith and love and remembering

2009-06-11T15:06:00.001-07:00

This week Brian and I are going down to St. George with some friends for the weekend. We are so very excited. But before I left I wanted to post a little note to all of my lovelies. This week I have been thinking a lot about this:

On June 13th it will be one year since John passed away. He is my best friend Brittany's daddy. He was such a wonderful father, husband, priesthood holder, and served our country for so many years. He was such a good friend and example to me and every year on June 13th I feel grateful that I was able to watch him so bravely fight cancer. And I will always feel grateful for what I have learned from the Pierce's as they have fought the battle of life with out their dad and husband. This picture was taken right after John was diagnosed with cancer. Britt and Brandon were both serving as missionaries but came home for a day to go to the temple as a family. Don't you love that? Don't you love that they went back out and finished their missions? So, so brave. Love you all. Have a good rainy weekend- we will be basking. - Brian and Andrea Todd

remember when ali gave her dog away?

2009-06-04T19:37:00.000-07:00

Brian and I are puppysitting Shane and Lauren's dog Lucy this week. And we LOVE her. We have been looking into getting our own little Lucy for quite some time. Fortunately I have a wise, expressive older sister whose experience with dog ownership led us to reconsider. But after almost a week of Lucy I want one more than ever.

And then I was like... and then she said.... And then this one time I...

2009-05-31T07:25:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we were eating dinner with my friend Jenn and she brought up something I always do! Her and her husband had gone to dinner earlier that week with another couple and her husband is really quiet. She didn't realize until the next day but she had talked the whole time. Two hours- talking. I laughed so hard when she told me because I might have been guilty of this same thing once or maybe even twice. Do you do that? So to my friends we often do dinner with- (look below) I am asking you to interrupt me, share your own anecdotes, get my husband talking, whatever it takes.

P.S. This was at my birthday in April. It was such a blast.

the rose

2009-05-26T19:31:00.000-07:00

There are roses blooming in our front yard right now and I can't stop singing Bette Midler's song "The Rose." Confession: When I was in high school I still had naive dreams of becoming a pop star and I took voice lessons from Jessica Leiber (now Dahlquist!) That was the song I practiced. I think she once mentioned something like a recital- that was probably our last lesson. I figured if I didn't feel comfortable singing in front of a bunch of 7 year olds and their parents I would never get a record label.

Tonight we are hanging out with Kim. It looks something like this:

We are now going to Costco for churros and maybe a berry sundae.

i forgive you- do you forgive me?

2009-05-21T13:41:00.000-07:00

Lately my heart has felt hard and closed. A tender heart is hard to come by, and it takes work to not let life's experiences creep in and harden you towards others. This morning while driving to school I was listening to an NPR interview with Diane Reams and Elizabeth Edwards. I know, everyone has 1 million opinions on her life and marriage but say what you want about Elizabeth- her comments really touched me. These feelings led to me recognize the need for forgiveness in my life. I give a lot and therefore I expect a lot and sometimes I expect too much. Do you ever do that? I have found that as a result I will foster bitterness and hurt and more resentment then the other persons actions ever warranted. When I heard Elizabeth talk about moving past the faults of others I could see how forgiveness leads to a calmer peace of mind. Sometimes when I want to forgive someone I write them a letter and fill it with how my heart really feels. I then tuck the letter away and ask Heavenly Father to tuck my bad feelings away with that letter. It works so well. I have not been writing enough letters lately. I'm going to get on that.

Remember Cher?

2009-05-20T09:01:00.000-07:00

One of the best things about being Marilyn Faulkner's daughter is that she introduces you to incredible movies and even better books. Moonstruck is a movie from 1987 about an Italian- American family in Brooklyn. The gist is this: Cher falls in love with Nicholas Cage and he has one hand and they go to the opera and Cher wears a velvet dress. It is incredible! It makes me want to have a last name like "Castarini", eat noodles, and live with a large loud Italian family. Really you'll love it- you will.

just cook already

2009-05-20T08:52:00.000-07:00

Some of my girlfriends and I post our favorite recipes on a blog called "Just Cook Already". I think many of my lovely friends and family would really enjoy the recipes also. If you want to post on the blog let Jennabean know. I just posted my recipe for homemade bbq sauce today. It is so delicious. Enjoy amigos.
Andrea

sew many things to learn

2009-05-14T13:08:00.000-07:00

I have started to play around with my sewing machine this past week. Here is what I have learned:
Sewing can be a bonding activity with grandmothers, mother in-laws, and friends. When you sew- you are part of a club.
Sewing with your spouse on the other hand, should be illegal. There is just something about the looking over each other's shoulders that can cause bursts of rage.
Sewing machines, like the Holy Ghost go to bed before midnight (thanks BYU). Don't attempt to do any sewing past then.
Sewing is like driving. Sometimes you all of a sudden find yourself swearing at something that can't hear you.
And last but not least I have learned why I received a B in my 11th grade home economics class.

But I am having fun. One day I will post a picture of an elaborate quilt or a sassy top and you will be so impressed. Until then I will be using my seam ripper. Lovies. Andi.

remember me? here i am just trying to be savvy

2009-05-07T11:31:00.000-07:00

So all of the girls in my ward swear by savvyshopper.com. It is a place where you can go and compare your coupons with the things on sale and then run around town to buy those specific things. Apparently you can save bundles of money and make your husband so so happy. I decided to hop on the couponing band wagon and this week was my first attempt. I was so stressed all week about what I was going to buy with my coupons I could hardly function.I literally made 4 different shopping lists.
While at Albertsons yesterday two employees in the cheese aisle asked me if I needed help. Apparently they could see the distress on my face. In my head thoughts like, "Well Britt said not to buy cheese that is more than 2$ a lb. Or was it 3$ a lb? And Mary said not to buy things you wouldn't really use. Will I use this cheese? I really like cheese...Well I don't even know where the cheese coupon is in my purse because I haven't accurately organized my coupons like we were instructed to....Should I buy one or two blocks? Are the different cheeses on sale?" The girls at Albertsons interrupted me and helped solve the cheese dilemna. I explained to them that it was my first time couponing and they nodded like they understood. Or maybe they just didn't want to make me feel bad? Either way my glory moment at the cash register was enjoyable- but I am not sure if emotionally I am cut out for couponing. That doesn't mean you aren't! Let me know if you would like any of my limited knowledge on becoming a savvy shopper.

vanilla rooibos

2009-05-05T06:15:00.000-07:00

This morning Brian woke me up at 6:00 by poking me in the bum repeatedly. I started to get a little grumpy with him until he dropped the word "Starbucks." I am now sipping my Vanilla Rooibos Tea Latte:
"Full leaf African rooibos tea(naturally caffeine free), also known as red tea, paired with Tahitian vanilla and cinnamon. Sweetened with classic syrup and topped with steamed milk and velvety foam."
It is that good. Ali and Jenna do you want to come home and sip with me?

remember brian todd?

2009-05-04T20:13:00.000-07:00

B.T. has had a busy week. He was put in the bishopric yesterday and it is 9:00 p.m. and he is still at work today. As for me... well as of today I am an official trophy wife. No school, no kid, no work. I'm just here waiting at home for Brian Todd with a cold dinner. I made Asian stir fry and mango lassis! They are so yummy I can't stop drinking them and if I don't get a job soon I won't be able to stop blogging either. Until then I am going to soak up every moment of my couch, kitchen, and front yard. Won't you join me for a lassi? Kisses.

ohh dear brett

2009-05-02T22:23:00.000-07:00

Tonight Brian and I are staying in with Brett. You can find him and many more friends here. We especially enjoy his braided wristband.

la bernina

2009-05-01T14:41:00.000-07:00

So I know my posts are often sentimental- I'm sorry. I am promising a summer full of surface level posts filled with fashion and stories about our perfect life that don't explain how we really feel. THEY ARE COMING. But tonight is my last day at the MTC. After three years I am finally retiring my name tag, the panty hose, my Preach My Gospel. And man, I am really sad.

There was nine months of this:

And then four months of this:

And finally five beautiful months of this:

Starting tomorrow Brian will have a new wife. One who is not so drained emotionally because she can't stop worrying about her elders who are homesick. A wife who has time to cook, and maybe even clean. This wife of his will be especially neat because today I am getting one of these:

I really have loved my missionaries- every single one of them. I will miss praying for them every night, I will also miss them praying for and teaching me everyday. I know my Bernina won't replace their love, nothing can. But if I can't have my missionaries at least I will have my Bernina Activa 230.

remember when cecil and i broke up?

2009-04-23T21:59:00.001-07:00

Wonderful things BYU has brought into my life:

Katie Brookes, Pam the landlord, girlfriends who love me, kareoke in Brigham square, 207 ward FHEs, dining plus, parking tickets, a desire to serve a mission, white boys who speak every language imaginable, Mavericks, A HUSBAND, Spanish, the "no shh" zone, hundreds of class friends, and a love for Latin America.

So Cecil, Cosmo, Brother Brigham, Profe O., and all of you return missionaries who helped me with my Spanish homework this one is for you.

Thank you. No seriously, thanks a lot. I really loved my time with you.
And tomorrow when I walk across that stage in my new cute sandals I will be thinking of you and your love.

girls just wanna watch movies about love, dancing, and other girls

2009-04-23T08:12:00.000-07:00

Today I am cleaning my house and watching this:

Every time I see Sarah Jessica I think of these girls:

And I remember how excited I am to do this at Shannon's wedding:

If you need me for the next two hours I will be with Janey and Lynne on Dance TV.
Andrea

remember when he came out of retirement?

2009-04-07T10:52:00.000-07:00

Such a sad day for HGTV and cage fighting on ESPN. They will really miss Brian. Congratulations BT! Go Fieldstone!

Here he is just being so handsome. Love guts- Andrea

remember me amigos? remember the horse rapists?

2009-03-31T16:32:00.000-07:00

I saw this clip on my friends gchat message. It reminded me of one day on my mission when I was giving a tour of Carthage Jail to 30-40 people and I was talking about the mob that broke into Carthage and I described them as, "horse rapists" opposed to "horse thieves and rapists". AWFUL! This family had 4 kids and the teenagers laughed for the next 30 minutes of the tour. Their parents kept poking them telling them to be quiet but every time they looked back up at each other they'd start laughing again.

Oh... it's hard being me.

remember when mare bear came?

2009-03-30T21:32:00.000-07:00

Dear Blake, Del Mar Stake Young Women, San Diego Book Clubs, local humanitarian organizations, Craig, Kerby, and Frankie,

Marilyn will not be able to attend to you this week she will be here with Alison and I. We will do things like: lunch, mani pedis, and maybe even Anthro (if the market is doing well of course...) Please hold the calls, texts, and emails. We hardly ever get our momby.

Love, Andi and Pony's Mama

it's me! andi!

2009-03-24T12:46:00.000-07:00

I made a decision a few days ago to start introducing myself to people as Andi. I've always used the spelling Andie- Ali thinks I should go with Andi- Brian is pulling for Andy. But the "y" is too masculine? Isn't it? So I told my new life plan to Alison and she told Trent at work. He asked, "What is her new last name again?" Williams.... Oh man. We have a problem. I hadn't even thought of it! Andy Williams? Heard of him... The legendary pop singer? When I got home I opened my mail box and saw this:
Real funny Alison. I am going forward with my plan. Are you with me? Thank you. I knew I could count on you.

Remember The Swiss Army Romance? Yes you do. Be honest now.

2009-03-19T10:28:00.000-07:00

In class the other day my teacher invited us to analyze a love poem that is by far one of the most famous of Latin American poetry. The professor labeled the poem as, "cliche, sappy, and elaborate metaphors." Everyone tried to defend the poem in one way or another- but the professor wasn't accepting their arguments. He wanted an answer as to why so many would except a piece of literature as brilliant when it wasn't at all. I raised my hand with out thinking and found myself relating the poem to pop punk. People are quick to mock its immaturity, but there isn't a soul out there who doesn't secretly love it. It's the cliche verses that sell, the experiences we have we can't describe that they capture. I then turned to the class and dropped the name "Dashboard Confessionals??? " Most nodded- they couldn't refuse my explanation. The girl behind me even put her hands up in the air like they were on an imaginary steering wheel and while swaying her head back and forth shouted, "YOUR HAIR IS EVERYWHERE!"

My point exactly.

Although my pop punk days are behind me, I will proudly admit that I have spent countless hours with Alison in the car singing Dashboard at the top of our lungs, dedicating every song to a different boy. I will also admit to loving The Ataris, Good Charlotte, and The Juliana Theory. Now is your time to fess up too. Leave me your favorite pop punk lyrics that got you through high school below. It will be therapeutic for all.

Love, Andrea

remember when it was pc to knock a mormon?

2009-03-10T10:10:00.001-07:00

Brian and i read this article last night about the HBO issue. Apparently shamelessly revealing everything Mormons hold sacred isn't a new trend. You can go here to leave a comment with HBO. Ohh silly television. You have no limits.

dear joanna

2009-03-05T10:31:00.000-08:00

Dear Joanna Goddard,
I read your blog "A cup of Jo" almost daily. Sometimes your posts are a little risque for my honor code abiding self, but I think you and I would be friends just the same. I was so jealous when you posted a photo of Noel's wedding. Do you like her more than me? Tell me honestly... I can take it. I don't ever comment because you get over 20 comments on every single post! How can I compete? I have never had a celebrity crush, I think you might be my first and you aren't a even a celebrity. Just a really pretty New Yorker. Love, Andrea
P.S. Ok...The whole part about the first celebrity crush was a complete lie. We've all seen the Jason Mraz YouTube clip. But maybe you are my first lady crush.

remember when we still lived in provo?

2009-02-25T07:47:00.000-08:00

Brian and I spent all weekend driving around Colorado because there is a small possibility we might make a move over the Rocky Mountains sometime soon. We drove from Loveland - where we saw the most adorable nieces and nephews ever, to Boulder- where we saw the most tie dye and tattoos ever, to Aspen, to Downtown Denver, to Parker where I served my mission, and to every other possible corner of the state. We loved it! We listened to "The Life of Pi" in the car and had so much fun with family. We do not know what will happen but we do know that we are really happy to be home. We love our old rundown home that is a work in progress and we love all of you who are here with us too. Here we are in Provo- just being so happy.

remember when we were valentines?

2009-02-13T19:05:00.000-08:00

Valentines-
I have been thinking about you tonight. Doesn't reading "sheblogs sheblogs" put you in the mood to love? I really feel like it does. I have learned a lot about love this past year, and look forward to learning so much more in the year to come.
Pablo Neruda is a favorite Latin American of mine. He writes lovely poetry about all sorts of things. Some of his first poems were called, "Twenty Love Poems and a Song of Despair." My favorite of the 20 poems is about how love can be still and is not always active. That just being there is enough. Or at least that is what it means to me. So I know that even though you aren't always making comments on my blog Valentines, that you are there, and that is enough for me. I am here for you too. Love you!

"Me Gustas Cuando Callas" or "I Like for You to Be Still"
by Pablo Neruda

I like for you to be still: it is as though you were absent,
and you hear me from far away and my voice does not touch you.
It seems as though your eyes had flown away
and it seems that a kiss had sealed your mouth.

As all things are filled with my soul
you emerge from the things, filled with my soul.
You are like my soul, a butterfly of dream,
and you are like the word Melancholy.

I like for you to be still, and you seem far away.
It sounds as though you were lamenting, a butterfly cooing like a dove.
And you hear me from far away, and my voice does not reach you:
Let me come to be still in your silence.

And let me talk to you with your silence
that is bright as a lamp, simple as a ring.
You are like the night, with its stillness and constellations.
Your silence is that of a star, as remote and candid.

I like for you to be still: it is as though you were absent,
distant and full of sorrow as though you had died.
One word then, one smile, is enough.
And I am happy, happy that it's not true.

remember how I drive a mercedes benz?

2009-02-10T20:09:00.000-08:00

Brian and I are shopping for a new car. Turns out our rear wheel drive luxury sedan isn't proving to be the best choice for a family of two who live on a snow covered alley way. The best part about shopping for a new car is obviously the shopping part. Shopping is fun! Brian will tell you that he doesn't love to shop, but that is a complete lie! By day he drives State St. in Orem looking at sticker prices, and by night he surfs Craig's List, Auto Trader, EBay...the list goes on.

Something Brian also loves are sturdy, affordable, American built cars that have things like "great resale value", and "amazing gas mileage." I am not as successful at being so level headed. After a long discussion where Brian explained to me all of the perks of buying a Chevy Malibu I explained to Brian that when I hear "Malibu" my mind immediately goes to individuals like: undercover cops and general authorities. Brian pulled out You Tube and sure proved me wrong: This does not scream reliable.

So when you see my cruising the around the corner in a sleek, affordable sedan and think, "Oh those Williams... so predictable!" Don't be confused by the Malibu. I will in reality have a brusky in one hand and a babe in the other.

remember when i went on a mission? remember when i went to NAUVOO?

2009-02-04T17:25:00.000-08:00

You do? Me too! Yesterday I woke up for school and took a little more time getting ready. I haven't been feeling my best lately, so I thought maybe a little eye liner and a well thought out outfit could really start the day out right. I got to school and took off my coat, looked around, and I seriously couldn't figure out what had gone wrong. I felt so good when I had gotten dressed. Why did I all of a sudden feel so frumpy? Then I remembered this:

Oh yeah, I was once a missionary and maybe I still work at the MTC, and so maybe when I get dressed I think it is cute to wear shade shirts layered with a patterned button down and an oversized solid cardigan. Whoops.
What is a girl to do? Sorry I think panty hose are strangely comfortable, sorry I like a conservative preppy look, sorry I think midcalf skirts are actually really cute... I'm even wearing one right now. I really am sorry.

All of this aside, today something really important happened in Nauvoo. Thousands of people decided to leave and walk in the freezing cold across the river so that they could continue believing what they know is true. Here they are walking:

I really love these people, I really am so glad that they had the courage to do something so hard. I hope you love them too, if not... we can talk. Right now in my life sometimes I feel like I am doing hard things. Maybe I'm not... but what they did was hard, and right, and I love Nauvoo. And I love you too! I'll being seeing you soon. Most likely in hose and a button down. Andrea

baby d

2009-01-19T20:42:00.000-08:00

Shane and Lauren Dyer our good friends here in Provo. They had their baby last night and whenever I think about it I start to cry... I am not equipped for motherhood.

James Kelly Dyer was born at 2:30 a.m. this morning. Here are some pictures of the baby boy and his very proud parents.

Doesn't Lauren look good after childbirth?

Brian... Don't you want one??

Brian started to get a little dizzy and overwhelmed with all of the delivery talk. He got very quiet and stood in the corner for a minute trying to catch his breath, I seriously thought he might faint. I think the whole reality of baby making got to him. Here he is rebelling against fatherhood.

come on baby light my fire

2009-01-15T09:00:00.000-08:00

this week in class we were assigned to read the novel in english "like water for chocolate". i thoroughly enjoyed the book and think many of you will too. the book is primarily about true love and food.

here is one of my favorite lines: "one last chile in walnut sauce left on a platter after a fancy dinner couldn't feel any worse than she did."

one of the many reasons why i love latin women (aside from the way they cook, dance, and get snappy) is because their idea of feminism differs from ours in the united states. the feminist movement in latin america was house wives breaking free from the bonds placed on them by machismo and tradition. they found their freedom through coming further into their role as women, and not trying to take on male attributes.

being a woman in many ways is a balancing act. equally distributing time to family, work, school, church, friends, and a personal life, does not seem possible. so far this year this year looks pretty grim as far as 100% dedication goes in a few areas of my life (for example: i didn't quite get to my 8:00 am class...) but! "like for water for chocolate teacher us,

"Each of us is born with a box of matches inside us but we can't strike them all by ourselves; just as in the experiment, we need oxygen and a candle to help. In this case, the oxygen, for example, would come from the breath of the person you love; the candle could be any kind of food, music, caress, word, or sound that engenders the explosion that lights one of the matches."

so in 2009 i hope that you will be my oxygen (but i don't like people who breath heavy when they talk... so figuratively speaking i guess) and that i will spend my time with things and people who ignite joy in my life.

go and read the book, and then we'll talk some more. andrea

the milkshaker

2009-01-09T15:00:00.001-08:00

Meet Elizabeth Posey Jones

Liz is one of my closest friends. She has many names and great qualities. I thought I would share some of them with you today.

Miss North Augusta- Liz won the North Augusta Beauty Pageant in 2003. Yes, yes she really did.
Our Southern Bell-Liz does everything a good Southern girl should do. Makes grits, has hot rollers, wears pearls, etc.
Elder Posey's daughter- Liz's family owns a funeral home in South Carolina that has survived for generation. They are seriously a big deal in South Carolina, for good reason.
The Milkshaker- Liz loves to dance. She has been known to "drop it" on the dance floor, BYU campus, her car, even on tables occasionally.
Mrs. Jones- Liz and Rob are so cute! Rob limits Liz's accessories to five each day, like any good husband would.
Lizard- Liz is an incredible friend. She calls you back, will always go to Bajios with you, listens to your troubles, and always writes her friends notes.
The Pilates Guru, Yoga Queen, Fitness Inspiration- Liz teaches over 30 hours of exercise classes a week.

She has recently started a new blog with information, tips, and fitness advice: www.pojofitness.blogspot.com
Go and read some of Liz's tips. I went to her pilates class this morning. I am having a difficult time sitting up straight because my abs are so sore.
What do you love about Liz? Do share...

remember when we got married?

2009-01-03T14:05:00.000-08:00

I know you might have already forgotten, but Brian and I were married on the 11th of October in San Diego. Today one of my favorite wedding blogs featured our wedding:
http://www.snippetandink.blogspot.com/
Naturally I am a little excited. I have been reading Brian comments that have been left all day long. I love you who were able to be there in San Diego with us, and I want to share the joy we had with those of you who weren't able to make it. I love you all.
Andrea

the moose

2008-12-15T17:34:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow Brian Todd turns 28. I thought I would share with you some little known facts with you about Mr. BTW to honor him on this special day.
Brian was the biggest baby ever born in the San Jose Hospital. Weighing in at almost 11 lbs the nurses affectionately called him "The Moose."
Brian stayed up more than one night with me while planning our wedding to write on all 300 post cards I insisted on personalizing.
Brian also applied stamps to the majority of these 300 postcards. He went through 4 glue sticks!
Brian has a blog. He has only posted once: briantoddwilliams@blogspot.com

Brian can hold himself horizontal on a pole.
Brian loves babies and every time he sees one he makes this airplane noise.
Brian thinks that sneakers and jeans are coming back in style.
Brian actually believes that sneakers and jeans were once in style.
Brian lived in the dorms... as a return missionary.
Brian fixes flat tires.
Brian once sold his car (worth $800) to the owners of Betos in Logan for $5,000 in cash, a horchata, and a California burrito.
Brian is really a good artist. He draws and even paints.
Brian fixes rain gutters.
Brian drives his Subaru like he is in a James Bond movie. He often pulls the emergency break, does a donut, or flys past another car.
Brian wears a headlamp at least once a day. Sometimes to fix stuff, sometimes in the dark, and sometimes just because Brian loves outdoor gear.
Brian loves to bargain shop. Brian won't leave a store until he has gotten a deal. This is Bill, Brian wouldn't leave RC Willey until Bill agreed to give us free pillows with our new couches.
Brian is kind to everyone. Brian forgives anyone who hurts him, and never brings it up again. Brian loves you! Brian loves everyone. And that is why everyone loves Brian. I am honored to be Mrs. BTW. Happy Birthday Brian Todd.

snow shmow

2008-12-08T15:00:00.000-08:00

Many in Utah County today have found a reason to celebrate today. They woke up and saw this and shouted for joy.

But I, Andrea Grace Todd Faulkner Williams refuse to celebrate. This year in my attempt to appreciate the snow I have decided to ski, dress warmly in outdoor gear, and even marry a mountain man. But I refuse to pretend like I enjoy this weather. That is just going too far. For all of you who enjoy this disaster of a day, I congratulate you. I wish you the best of luck this season! If you need to find me in the next few months I will be in my chair sipping herbal tea watching 13 going on 30, and waiting for April before I come out again.

just me here rollin around

2008-12-01T12:30:00.000-08:00

dear readers,
brian is doing some serious reports for his corporate job and i am here in the back room trying to be a quiet supportive wife. i should be doing a report on the economic development in mexico but i have been utterly distracted all morning long. last night i baked cinnamon rolls from scratch and I CANT STOP EATING THEM. i ate 31/2 for dinner last night, 1 for breakfast this morning, and then i came home and ate a quesadilla for lunch. the whole idea was to eat the quesadilla so that i wouldn't be hungry for the cinnamon rolls. but in the last half an hour i ate 2 more! there are 10 left on the stove right now. TEN!

the sugar high, guilt, and pleasure is leaving me giddy at a time when i am trying to be oh so quiet, and act like a mature, supportive housewife. i figured i would share my excitement with you and even send you the link for the recipe.

http://www.marthastewart.com/recipe/cinnamon-nut-buns

thank you for the escape. i feel much better. satisfied, relieved, and almost ready for another roll.
andrea todd

ooo la la

2008-11-09T18:28:00.000-08:00

This is Andre. He is the grandpa who lives at the home Brian and I are house sitting this week. Andre immigrated with his wife to America from Switzerland and was an antique furniture designer by trade. He is now 91 and spends most hours of the day with his chair, blanket, and cat. Brian and I LOVE Andre and we want to share him with you! Big Willy Style of course! Let us review a typical week with our Swiss dream boat. This week Andre has:
- Put on a harmonica concert for Brian and I, we clapped along when he sang the different choruses to the Swiss school boy songs.
- Said words such as "fan-tasss-teeck (fantastic), uhh- low (hello), and dee lish us (delicious) with the thickest French accent possible. English just sounds so much better that way.
- Asked me for multiple back scratches and then said "ooooo la la" when I hit the "deee good spots." He was loving it so much it made Brian nervous.
- Snuggled with the cat every night in bed, and petted the dog for hours in his chair.
Andre has a far better attitude than anyone else I know, he is a joy to be with. We encourage you to stop by this week to meet Andre and to hear about his country, furniture, and adventures in America. The best part is he won't remember you if you've come by before and so you will get to share the stories time and time again.

Savor the leaves, winter is coming!
Los Williams

hitch hiker diaries

2008-11-05T14:36:00.000-08:00

last friday brian and i spent the day with with a hitch hiker named james. brian picked him up outside of gunnison, utah and he spent the night in our unfurnished basement. he was relatively harmless, just looking for his own jack kerouac or che guevara expereince. you know, the "out to find the good the world has to offer" attitude. something we completely agree with right? of course! so what did we do to show james a good time? show him the best provo has to offer? well let me tell you:
- my cute husband bought him a new bike wheel and gave him a futon to sleep on downstairs
- i made him a plate of left over spaghetti for lunch
- we shared with him our costco bag of mini assorted chocolates
- we took him to nicolitalias for dinner
- like any good mormon couple would we explained to james topics such as: mitt romney, lamanites, temple marriage, and sober dance parties
- and last but not least i had james sit down with me and look at over an hour of wedding pictures! recently scanned in by leo patrone!

just like we love james, we love you! and brian and i also want to share each of these things with you! we will start with our wedding pictures. tell us what you think.
http://leopatrone.instaproofs.com/collection.php?event=60225

Wataaaabowlybawl

2008-10-27T19:14:00.000-07:00

So years ago when my family took a trip to Puerto Vallarta our eyes were opened to the world of Mexican resorts. The pinas, cool braided hair, and hemp necklaces were expected. But what we didn't know we were in for was the interactive pool atmosphere we would encounter. Beanbag toss, hula hooping, and coreographed dances are just the beginning of what we were up against. Every hotel has a DJ and then 5-10 assistants who run around and try to get everyone to either dance, throw, or swivel. My families primary goal on our vacation became dodging anyone who looked like they might try and get us to do anything that required speaking with other hotel guests. We were successful and our favorite part of the vacation actually came from a reminder that happened on the loud speaker at the pool after each group game. It was always the same and seemed to stay with us. The DJ would get on and yell, "And at 1:30! Watabolybawl!!" He would then dance and high five others because this water volleyball at 1:30 was going to be something. Evan has screamed that in my ear 1.7 millions times since leaving Mexico, you'll pick it up next time he's in town. It's really catchy. Watabowlybawl!!!

Brian and I went on our honeymoon to Cancun last week and again encountered the wild poolside atmosphere of Mexico. The first day we decided to brave the Mexican heat we were cornered at the bar. Something about us screamed honeymooners and so naturally they invited us to participate in their poolside game they would be putting on in just a few minutes, "The Perfect Couple." Oh man... we were in. How could we be so foolish as to make eye contact with the hotel staff wearing khaki cargos and a cowboy hat?

We ended up playing. Above you can see our competition. Two couples in their 60's from central Illinois and a hairdresser and her husband from Yakima, WA not photographed. Her swimsuit was better left off of the blog.

Well I am happy to report that we not only played this poolside mixer, we won. Brian and I were deemed "The most perfect couple at the Westin Hotel in Cancun from 10/11-10/19." We now proudly display our prizes on our mantel and invite all to come see them. Here we are holding our shark tooth ashtray, and our ceramic lizard.

the 12 days of marriage

2008-09-30T15:36:00.000-07:00

I don't know if any of you have been on the wedding website lately to see the wedding countdown... well if you have then you know that I will legally, officially, ETERNALLY be Mrs. Brian Todd Williams in less than two weeks. 11 days to be exact. My time as an engaged individual will come to an end and I will sooner than later wear two rings, talk about scrapbooks and coupons, and work in the primary. I will be the real deal... a married lady.

Can I just tell you something? Can I be really honest with you?? Even though I have been an awful blogger will you still listen? Like...really listen to me? Okay, thanks.

So this is what I am going to tell you: Being engaged has been a difficult time for the ol' agf/atw (that's me!) I won't go into all of the gritty details that have made this a wild time but I will say that difficulties associated with being engaged caught me off guard. For such a long time I felt discouraged by the way I reacted. I felt the same sense of discouragement I felt in high school after loosing a tennis match, or how I felt freshman year of college when I would always fail my physical science tests. I just want you, my very few readers to know that I am not discouraged anymore about our engagement, I feel really happy and exceptionally thankful for what Brian and I have experienced during this time.

While I was engaged I was able to learn so much about making choices. I learned that life is full of choices, all day long. We make so many everyday! And when we think we have to be a certain way... well usually that isn't true. We usually have a choice.

I learned a lot about love. I learned a lot about loving others, and even more about loving myself. I was reminded how many people I have who love me who have been around for years, just loving me all along. I learned these people really do hurt when I hurt and they are happy when I am happy. I also learned a lot about people who have recently entered my life who although they do not know everything about me, they want to love me just the same. Oh, I learned more about God's love, and that always feels good.

I learned a lot about Brian while we were engaged. He is really good at so many things. I learned that he is okay that I cry a lot (for example, I am in history class crying right now as I write this.. he is okay with that). I learned that he likes the generic brand of Lucky Charms just like I do. I learned that he will always listen to me. I learned that he knows how to pray, I learned that he prays for me. I learned that we will be happy no matter what happens during our life because we love one another, and we chose to be together because we will be happier and better together than apart from one another.

For all of you who helped me learn so much over these past 3 months I am writing you this really sentimental thank you note over my blogspot. So here you go, thanks. Thank you for helping me learn and being so patient with me. I love you.
I have to go wipe my nose now.

this is me posting twice in one day!

2008-08-18T13:11:00.000-07:00

With all of the spare time I know have on my hands after finding these dresses I am able to now do things like: slalom ski, eat fruit by the foot, and create a wedding website. I would be touched if you will go and check it out!
www.brianandandrea.weddingwindow.com

your mom looks like she is going to a spanish funeral

2008-08-18T12:43:00.001-07:00

After countless hours of searching for bridesmaid dresses they have been found. Last week in the Fashion Valley BCBG I was blessed with a 70% off rack that offered me 5 of the 7 bridesmaid dresses I had been praying for, agonizing over, and envisioning for 23 years! It is a misconception that ALL of the skinny sales attendants in designer stores are not helpful. Although the majority are, we found ourselves a girl committed to the cause of mustering up two more of these dresses. She was obviously aware of what it takes to dress a bridesmaid modestly, on a budget, and in style. Her dedication allowed the other 2 dresses to be ordered and they are on their way.

What does this mean? This means that I will have to go against all I set out to do: putting bridesmaids in black dresses. I had sworn against it! I wanted color! But as the shopping process continued I came to see how much of me is represented in this black, silky number.

For years now whenever shopping I will come to the counter with 3-5 pieces that all look similarly. Alison will look at them and then back to me and say something along the lines of, "We aren't going to be attending any Spanish funerals any time in the near future. Go and put those back. " Apparently my attraction to dark, shiny, and lacy pieces was preparing me for that fateful day in the BCBG. In times like these we have to stick to what we know. And I know Spanish funeral frocks.

With this obstacle tackled I feel more prepared to take on marriage, obtain multiple college degrees, employ all Latins in the U.S., and whatever else I desire. I feel that I must thank patient bridesmaids who searched and agonized with me. I must also thank Espana for their lisp, Euro style, and for hosting me for four months. So thank you Pilar (my Spanish host mom), Franco (our favorite fascist), Julio Iglesias (Enrique's Dad who lives in Southern Spain!), Profe Otterstrom (no explanations needed), and all of you attractive Spanish women over 40 who look so good even when in mourning for being my inspiration.

to blog or not to blog

2008-08-07T15:01:00.000-07:00

Here I am. Blogging! Can you believe it?? For so many months I have shied away from commenting, blog hopping, or even blog stalking! And here I am... posting on my very own blog. It is just me, a humble sister who one year ago was still wearing pantyhose and worrying about my pioneer garb. But I have decided to follow the family legacy and be here with YOU!

I'm sure many of you are familiar with one or more of the Faulkner's blog spots. We daily enjoy sheblogsheblogs and as a result of this masterpiece we spend the majority of our days either 1. Singing Ricky Martin or 2. Giggling about something that was mentioned in Ali's entry. But may I say that Alison learned from her mama!

Three years ago in our family Christmas card Marilyn sent out her URL for her blog, she was WAY ahead of the trend. I believe that she paved the way for women over 40 to feel comfortable blogging, she has liberated thousands of housewives. Way to go Mom!

Let us not forget The Daily Kirk which has been a part of many peoples lives for years now. There has been fan mail from a variety of readers including Toca Rivera (please tell me you recognize him as the bongo drummer for Jason Mraz...) who has even been known to tune into the TDK. With this said you can imagine why it is so intimidating and even overwhelming to be debuting in this blogging world that is so foreign to me. But I will do my best not to let down Nauvoo, my family name, and especially you.