The Darbys

Burritos and Babies and Blocks

2012-02-07T21:25:00.000-08:00

I long to be the housewife/stay-at-home-mom who has the house spotless and the oven dinging as soon as the dear husband walks in from a long day of work...

however...

I'm not there yet...

and it's okay! I kept three children alive all day today, did some laundry, held a screaming baby for almost an hour (which can easily feel like 3), everyone got naps, had some constructive learning time with the boys, and then I got around to dinner!

Here's what we had:

Beefy Bean Burritos
(adapted from Deep South Dish)

2 Tbsp oil
1/2 large onion chopped
2 cloves garlic (pressed or chopped- I love to use my handy dandy garlic press)
1 lb ground beef

Saute your garlic and onion in oil for a few minute, then add ground beef. Brown and drain. Then add the following spices (or use a packet of taco seasoning) and a can of rotel tomatoes.

salt/pepper
1 1/2 Tbsp chili powder (more or less to taste)
1 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp oregano

This combination of spices made it just right for the boys and Jared- I like things a little spicier, so if I had made this just for me I would have added a little more of everything!

Let this all simmer for about 5-7 minutes.

Heat 10 soft taco shells in microwave (so they don't tear when you roll them up). Spread a spoonful of beans (I used black- recipe called for refried), sprinkle with cheese, add meat mixture, and roll up! (I learned tonight that I'm a terrible roller-upper-of-the-burritos!) Arrange in a baking dish (spray with cooking spray first), cover tightly with foil, and bake for about 30 minutes on 325. (I did 20 on 350 because it was getting late!)

We had apples with this- chopped and cooked in the skillet with a little butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon- yum!!

I have found lots of things recently on pinterest (duh) that I've wanted to do with the boys on Tuesdays and Thursdays while we're at home. I have found lots of free units, but today I needed something I didn't have to print out and prepare, plus with Molly Claire not being on such a great schedule right now, I knew I wouldn't have the time to sit with Owen to really help him. Something we did today was patterns with blocks. This entertained them longer than .2 seconds- so I consider it a success! Owen didn't so much follow the patterns as build- but it kept them entertained while I cleaned up dishes. I found it quicker to use Publisher to make the patterns rather than draw and color- although that would have been good to have Miles help me with coloring and picking the patterns to draw.

(Open document, draw table 1x6, fill in each square a different color, print, cut into individual little sheets, model how to build blocks with pattern, let them go)

Miles even found that he could make a really tall tower by building the patterns on top of each other! Also, instead of just giving them the whole big bucket of blocks, I gave them each a smaller container with their own blocks- Miles had longer ones, Owen had shorter ones just to differentiate.

Finding Freedom ------>

2012-02-03T23:02:00.000-08:00

You see that button on the right there?? The "Finding Freedom Team" button?

Let me tell you a little about it...

Two years ago, a sweet teacher friend called me up. One who I had gotten to be close friends with while we lived in Tuscaloosa (which is saying something- because we didn't have many friends at all while we lived in Tuscaloosa =) She knew I was working part-time at that time and about to have another baby (Owen) and wanted to share with me what she had started doing. She had found a work from home opportunity that she really believed in- not a gimmick or a party-based business or keeping up with inventory- but an opportunity with a debt-free, green-living company. Little did I know at the time just how important the green living part would become to me with small children!

After Owen was born, I looked back into it and joined her. The team that we're a part of is the Finding Freedom team- a group of people looking to find not only financial freedom, but time freedom, freedom from store brands, etc... Our Team supports families in healthier choices for their families and homes, while supporting them in finding success in business, primarily with a legitimate career that allows us to work from home and build a solid, lifetime residual income provided security for our now and retirement security. The company we partner with is an International Wellness Company BBB awarded and next to none!

so....

MOMS:

If you're interested in knowing how simply switching stores can make a positive difference in your family's life- I'd love to share info about Melaleuca with you. Seriously- you're already spending the money somewhere- you're just switching the place you buy your everyday products from to a safer company with much healthier products. I mean- even the plastic bottles are made with 25% post-consumer recyclable materials! The value of a membership with Melaleuca is also well-beyond just the products!

If you are interested in joining me in spreading the *green* love and earning some extra income, you can check out a webcast with me to see if this is an opportunity to take advantage of! Our compensation plan is awesome and so very rewarding! You can even check out our team on facebook to put real faces with real results!

So there's my spill---- I'm sure I'll post again and again about how much I love this company- seriously- it's such a relief knowing that I'm not exposing my children to awful chemicals and being responsible for what they come in contact with at home. Plus- I'm not cutting coupons or having to drag all my kids to the store to buy those everyday household items! I'm shopping wisely and from the convenience of my own home and computer!

What a Week!!!

2012-02-03T21:07:00.000-08:00

Whew...mid-week--- I didn't know that we would make it to the weekend!!! Even a sweet friend looked my way Wednesday night at church and asked if I was tired and going to make it! HA!

The week started out pretty normal--- except Jared was home from work most of the day, which was nice! Then Tuesday we took an uneventful trip to the park to meet some friends. Audrey has two little girls, so it's fun to be around and watch little girls play and see what I have to look forward to with Miles! We go to church together and her youngest and Miles are in the same preschool class. We love going to one of the parks here because it's mostly enclosed (one way in one way out) so I was able to let Owen just kinda wander about on his own which was fun to watch and observe!

Then Wednesday came...

(lots of this is details about our day---

you don't have to read it- I'm writing most of it for

myself because I do plan to do the blog book one day =)

Started out fine...but different from our normal routine. I am doing the James study by Beth Moore right now and usually attend on Thursday nights, but knew I couldn't go this week, so I went to the Wednesday morning session. So that meant Owen going to childcare- no big deal- right? We enter the church- he automatically thinks we're there for supper because we came in at the gym like we do on Wednesday nights for supper. We walk back to nursery- he thinks we need to play hide and seek. So he hides in the (dark) bathroom behind the door. Finally get him to his room- he cries like I've left him to play with alligators. We finish up, race back to pick Miles up from preschool- of course Owen falls asleep. We get home and I try my hardest to transition him from car to bed- pretty successfully. However, Miles is like the loudest bathroom-goer in the history of the world---- singing, opening drawers, slamming toilet seat down, having conversations with whoever will listen- and Owen's room is right next to bathroom. So both kiddos are up from quiet times by about 2-ish. Which makes for an extremely long afternoon around these parts!

Luckily it was a beautiful day and unseasonably warm out, so we load up in the wagon. Now...I say that like it's a simple task. Getting shoes on two rowdy boys- one who didn't get his nap out and the other who acts like he has had 10 red bulls when he doesn't get a nap (figure that one out)- is quite a feat. Then getting them into the wagon at the same time with balls and buckets to collect rocks, then throwing the balls out because there's not enough room, then needing water (because you know they're thirsty when they ask for water- not juice), then realizing the baby (who is already in the baby front-carrier) needs socks on...needless to say- just a simple wagon ride is an adventure...

Then off we go. But Miles is very particular about just which rocks we can collect. So he navigates us around. Then we run into a new neighbor and her puppy. Owen has an ever-living fit because the sweet puppy looked at him. (again...didn't get nap out!) So I try to have a pleasant conversation with new neighbor above the crying! We finish up talking and head up into our cove (uphill--- in high-heel boots- because by the time I realized I had on regular-people-shoes, boys were already loaded up and baby was in position- can't change shoes). I decided it would be a good time to go meet another new neighbor! To our luck, she has a little boy the same age as Owen!! So much fun! She kindly welcomes us in and the boys are able to play! It will be fun to have a sweet little friend right down the street for Owen! It's then time for us to head home, so I let the boys run down to the house and our new friend follows suit! New neighbor and I stood in my driveway and talked for a little bit while boys are picking up the balls that had previously been thrown out of the wagon. I looked up to get a location on each one--- Owen isn't on my radar!!!

He had gone down the hill to get one of the balls. When I looked down over the hill, I realized he had fallen into the ditch that was full of standing water and was under water!! (remember I still have baby in front carrier and have my boots on...) {panic attack start...now.} New sweet neighbor (who is also a nurse, praise the Lord) rushes down and gets to him for me! Bless him- wet to the bone, nasty green stuff all over him! And now her tennis shoes and pants are wet from going in after him! It definitely scared him, but not enough to keep him from getting in the bath to clean up! (not before tee-tee-ing all over my kitchen floor, though after I sent him in from getting all his wet yucky clothes off in the garage!) And I need to see to fussy, hungry baby who somewhere in the mix got taken inside. And get Miles off his bike riding around the driveway singing "Owen went swimming...the "Juice" went swimming" (new nickname I'm not particularly fond of...Owen James...OJ...Juice).

But dad-gum-it- I'm gonna make it to church because that was our dinner waiting on us! A good, wholesome meal that we weren't going to get otherwise that day!

Whew...we finally made it and at the end of the day, we were all alive. I had successfully kept all of our children alive that day-- but that was the first day one had truly challenged that task!

So seriously- if you start seeing gray hairs on me- you will know why. Just give me a few bucks and offer to keep my kids while I go get it done =)

Chicken Parmesan Pasta

2012-01-31T06:37:00.000-08:00

I have GOT to go to the grocery store TO-day! Anybody with me?! I mean...Miles had pear juice and Owen had water with breakfast! Not even any milk! So I had to get a little creative with supper last night...

I had seen this recipe on pinterest that looked soooo good:

It is made with raw chicken and croutons. I had already cooked up some chicken breasts over the weekend to have on hand this week (frozen chicken breasts, onion, garlic, tad bit of water and chicken boullion in crock pot for 4-6 hours= fall apart chicken great to throw into any recipe). And I had some spaghetti sauce in fridge that I needed to use up, along with a bag of croutons in pantry (we're not really salad eaters).

So I tweeked the recipe some and here we go:

(I cooked this up in an 8x8 pan- I've learned that (for now) a 9x13 dish is too much for us. 8x8 is just right with just enough leftovers for the next day.)

cooked, shredded chicken (I used two chicken breasts and this was almost too much chicken)
pasta (I used rotini, you could use penne or whatever you have on hand; I also only used about half a box)
2 cups spaghetti sauce (make your own or use the jar)
1-2 Tbsp basil
1 garlic clove pressed
1 Tbsp olive oil
2 cups parmesan cheese
2 cups mozzarrella cheese
5 oz bag garlic croutons

Boil your pasta according to box. Mix pasta, chicken, 1 cup parmesan, and sauce. Put olive oil and garlic in bottom of dish and spread around to coat. Pour pasta mix in. Sprinkle with basil, rest of parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Spread croutons on top and press down. You can sprinkle more cheese on top if you want. Bake at 350 for about 25 minutes. Serve with garlic bread and maybe some green beans! (I didn't have either---I'm telling you- I have got to get to the store today!!)

fyi--- croutons reheated are n.o.t. good- pasta is great next day- just leave the croutons off =)

Here are two ways I love to make green beans that are sure to get eaten up!!

Quick Green Beans:
1 can green beans
1-2 Tbsp Cavendar's seasoning
1 Tbsp olive oil
1/2 Tbsp sugar

Mix all ingredients in a small saucepan. Heat to boiling. Cover and reduce heat. Let simmer for about 10-15 minutes.

Great Green Beans: (from Mississippi Magazine) (I usually half this!)
6 cans green beans, drained
1/2 stick of butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup crumbled bacon

Put green beans into a 9x13. Melt butter, stir in brown sugar. Pour over green beans. Sprinkle with bacon. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Prepare to be thanked and asked to bring it to every function from now on. =)

How do you make your green beans? Do you ever tweek a recipe with stuff you have on hand at home?

***there's another great recipe on my pinterest page that calls for fresh green beans- we had them for Christmas eve dinner and they were fantastic! Those may be on the menu for this week, in fact!

Miles turned 4...

2012-01-27T22:20:00.000-08:00

...like 3 months ago...but since I finally figured out I can put pics on here (see...I do have blonde roots...just can't afford {money or time} to keep the blonde in the rest of my hair right now...=)

We had an awesome (if I do say so myself) campout for Miles birthday! I had my pinterest board filled with ideas on his campout party like four months before it happened- mostly because I knew Molly Claire would be making her debut appearance within weeks, or even days, of his birthday! (She came right on time, though! His birthday is Nov 1, so there's a good two weeks between!) I made his cute little invites (which I don't have a pic of- but they're similar to this one). The catch for the party was that the boys' dads had to come camp out with them! (I'm crazy...but not crazy enough to have a bunch of 4 year olds to my house to spend the night with a newborn in the house!) We had two of Miles' sweet friends and their dads come over for hot dogs and ribs and s'mores cake!! Plus you know I had plenty of other snacks for everyone! Those poor kids probably had stomach aches after they left the next morning! We blew up balloons and put glow sticks in them and they went hunting for them in the empty lots around our house. They watched movies on the big screen we borrowed from the church in the back yard. And you know Owen was right in the middle of it all thinking he was as big as they were! Here are some pics from the party! Also at the end two of my faves from Miles actual birthday.

campground ----->

smores cake!

around our "camp fire"

Jared and the birthday boy! (notice the tents in the background!)

if you only knew how fitting this pic of owen is...

movie time! the boys with their goodie sacks filled with a flashlight, snack mix, gloves, and a hat

Owen got so tickled at Miles blowing out his candles!

My precious first born!

ha ha ha ha----

2012-01-27T21:54:00.000-08:00

last pic as a family of four!

I really did do a load of laundry.

sweet baby about 2 months old!

New family picture!

My side of the family on Christmas

oh.my.goodness!!

2012-01-27T20:52:00.000-08:00

Has it REALLY been 5 months since I last posted?!? I guess that tells you where blogging has been on my priority list!

Soooo....we had a baby....Molly Claire Darby was born Saturday night, October 15, 2011 (can't remember the exact time--- know I have it written down, but that would require me to get up and I know I would be distracted by something and wouldn't come back...so we'll just say it was right before 11:00 that night) after a long day of just being a family of four about to bring the fifth into the world!

I had my regular weekly checkup the day before and ole Dr. Tinker said probably no baby- so we set an induction date for later in the month. I left so disappointed! So ready to have this sweet little pumpkin in my arms (and, truth be told, out of my belly!!) I had been having irregular contractions the same way I did with Owen, but had not progressed any. I woke up Saturday morning with a full day ahead! Miles had a soccer game, we had a trip to Cedar Hill Farms planned, then Jared had to go back down there for a club-wide soccer family night--- so no time for a baby that day--- at least not until Jared got finished with his party! We had a fun day- I just knew all day that we were going to have this baby before the weekend was over! In fact, while we were on the hayride (yes, I went on a hayride...and pushed Owen in the stroller all over that farm), I had someone take a picture of us and told Jared it was probably our last picture as a family of four! We went on home and I tried laying down knowing that the contractions would probably ease up...let me tell you what...those contractions quickly went from 7-8 minutes all day long to 3-4 minutes as soon as he left to go back to the farm! Luckily my sweet mama was smart enough to come on down to the house before Jared left! I called Jared around 6 and told him to come home...NOW! So I casually threw a load of clothes in the washing machine, took a quick shower (you don't want your hair to look dirty in pics)- of course Jared gets there while I'm in the shower, so he thinks we can lollygag...no sir-ree!! I told him to get it into gear and let's head out! On the way, he later told me that I was speaking in tongues and talking to myself (talking to myself- yes, speaking in tongues- no, praying we would get to the hospital in time for me to have my epidural so I wouldn't be eternally mad at my husband for making me wait on him all day to have this baby- yes.) And let me just tell you, there is no short way to get to Germantown Methodist from a.n.y.w.h.e.r.e. I did a little hyperventilating in the car because I was so worked up, so I had a catch in my side along with the contractions--- not really making it so easy to breathe!!! So while they got me all hooked up, the sweet nurse (who I was being very kind to- because they hold the key to how quickly you can get your meds) gave me an oxygen mask to help me get calmed down and breathing normally. Jared came back in the room to find the incubator and all the baby stuff ready, me up on the bed hooked up to everything with an oxygen mask on holding my hand up indicating just how far along I was (for those of you who care--- I was half way to ten and fully ready) My kindness to the nurses was on my side because they hooked me up with the anesthesiologist quickly (like within the hour of us getting there- so f.y.i.- they can get that bag of fluids going quickly for you) and we were good to go! The doctor on call wasn't my doctor- but I'm telling you- I didn't care! Not only because I was ready, but because her name was Dr. Mann and she drove in on her Harley- complete with leather jacket. oh yes. My mom and Jared were there with me when she was born; Dad came in soon after! We had a sweet first night and did actually get a little sleep! Big brothers spent the night with Jared's parents and came to the hospital late morning on Sunday. We had several visitors and went home on Monday. (I had insisted the entire pregnancy that I would be staying two nights in the hospital- not just one like we did with Owen!)

And you know what? Life did not stop. It all of a sudden got faster! (Except on those days when we have no where to go!)

Miles is loving preschool! We love his teacher and are so very thankful that he gets to learn in such a great environment! He is constantly impressing us with his knowledge and growing vocabulary! This week, we have gone to South Carolina and California and NYC on the "train" that he and Owen are always making out of anything they can think of (mostly chairs and pillows). He also was telling me just today about how "Chaster" helped save God's people from the man who wanted to get rid of God's people. I asked him if he meant "Esther" and he told me "no...chaster...with a c-h" =) He and Owen play so so so well together- I am so blessed to have boys who love each other so much! Miles has told Owen at least twice (that I've heard) in the last week or so that he is his best friend. It's not always picturesque, but it really is more times than not! The playroom hasn't been straightened up all week- but for me- it's a picture of how well they play together and love being around each other!

Owen all of a sudden turned into the biggest handful a few months into my pregnancy with MC. He had always shown signs of being such a laid back child, never in a hurry for anything! And this is still mostly true--- it's just the in-between times that wear me out so! He is an expert "baby gate breaker outer", loves to run the water in the sink and brush his teeth (at any given time in the day- which is great- I'm hoping he likes the dentist better than Miles), is already an expert at "rolling" things (gets that honestly from his mama...i still would love to go roll a house- but I'd have to do it before 11...I'm too tired to do anything after 11), the best taste-tester out there (anything from candy to turnip greens), very determined, and fiercely protective of his little sister. The first night home, we had MC in the infant seat letting the boys look at her. It got Jared all nervous (I was ready to send him back to work the next day =), so he picked the seat up to take her to the bedroom and you would have thought we had taken candy away from Owen!! He got so terribly upset! I can probably count the number of times he's ever done something that might hurt her- and that's not been on purpose- just sitting on her to get a reaction out of me or poking her face or something. He went through a period of only kissing her- no one else- not even me! Poor baby girl has had snot (or candy or food) on her head since day one! I love the times I find little hot wheels in the seat with her, though!

I'll post a few more Owen stories as they come to mind...and I'm still working on getting Jared to sync my phone so I don't lose all 800+ pictures/videos that are on it...wouldn't that suck!!!!!

And I just realized all the pics my mom has taken and shared with me on picasa, I can't post to here because I'm not the owner of them?! So sorry! I'll work on that...=)

soccer, teeth-brushing...a day in the life...

2011-08-10T13:32:00.000-07:00

Nothing big going on right now! We have truly had a restful July- extremely HOT...but we've been able to stick around the house and just enjoy being at home! We recently visited my grandparents and I had an aunt ask me what all I had been up to- and I could honestly tell her not much besides being a mom!! I loved that answer! I'm so glad that the good Lord has given me the opportunity to be at home with my sweet boys (and soon to be little girl) and be available to play and love on them all day! I wouldn't trade this time for a single thing!

This summer I've been able to watch Miles grow and develop his communication skills- he'll be turning four soon and all of the developmental changes are just amazing to me! No one has had to "teach" him how to sigh with his shoulders hung down (which is my favorite expression of his right now...shame on me =) or teach him how to find humor in situations- one of his favorite phrases is "that's so silly, mommy!"- and his emphasis on certain syllables is what really gets me! He loves gameshows right now- I think it's the clapping and excitement that gets him (i.e. Wheel of Fortune, that show with Cedric the Entertainer, etc). Although there have been times of frustration over his behavior and feeling like he's reverting back to toddler ways (from being around little brother- like dumping toys out and the excessive whining), times where I see his growth make it all worth it! And, knowing that soon, he'll be surrounded by other children his age 3 days a week and probably picking up on habits I won't be fond of that typical 3 and 4 year olds have!

Last week, we got him all signed up for soccer. He'll be playing at a local church that's right up the road from us, so that will make practice and games convenient! Jared is beside himself excited =) We already have shinguards and shoes (which of course, there's a story there...~~Jared doesn't believe in putting the child in a stroller~~ Owen got lost in the shoe store, Jared stood guard at the front doors and sent Miles hollering for him throughout the store. Owen was in the shoe stock room. I was hosting bunko at our house that night- didn't hear this story til the next day.) Then there was registering for soccer...I couldn't simply mail the form in...=) So I loaded the boys up (to drive 2 miles up the road with no other errands planned for the day). As I was putting shoes on, Miles insisted that he wear his cleats. Well apparently I need a lesson in simply tying shoelaces on cleats. Luckily, Jared had already shown Miles how to do this, so he was able to coach me through...wrap the extremely-too-long laces around the shoe, then make sure the loops are under the tongue. Glad I learned this early on in life.

Owen is at SUCH a fun age right now! Of course, he thinks he is as big as his big brother, and able to do EVERYTHING Miles can: jump on (and off) the bed, brush his teeth, hold the top of the banister going up the stairs, etc. This morning, I was in the kitchen doing dishes and the boys ~~were left to their own devices~~ made it back to our bathroom (I did shut the door, so that means ~~Miles~~ someone opened the door for them!) When I realized where they were, I immediately thought "great- Owen is playing in the toilet or the bathtub" (both favorite pasttimes). But no...this time, Miles was jumping on the bed (which he isn't supposed to do ~~without me in the room~~) and Owen had climbed up onto the bathtub (our tub is connected with a little shelf area to our vanities) and was brushing his teeth...with Jared's toothbrush. I posted a video of this on facebook- you can check it out- he was so proud of himself!! (it's on my phone and I let Jared do all the techy stuff, so I haven't figured out how to get it from my phone to the computer!) He was QUITE upset when I took it from him!!

Nothing new with baby girl right now!!! I told my doctor yesterday that I was a little concerned over how big I seem to be getting this early on, and he told me that she was just sitting forward, so to tell anyone who comments on this to shut-up! Gotta love him!!! I have decided how I want her nursery to look- here's my inspiration room: http://pinterest.com/pin/56349347/ (have you BEEN on pinterest?! it's so addicting!) Now it's just getting there...but she does have a few more items in her wardrobe! And some sweet sweet friends are hosting a shower at the end of the month! The sweet girl won't be naked- that's for sure! And her Meme has already said that any blue jeans bought for her will disappear until she's at least ten!! Ha ha!! ((I remember telling Jared once before we were parents that we may have to eat pbj's every night of the week, but our kids will be dressed cute- not too hard with the boys (especially when you have friends with kids exactly a year older than your oldest!) and sweet grandparents who make sure they have special occasion outfits! But watching my mom buy clothes for Molly Claire this early on has been priceless!))

Sorry there are no pics...I've been good about taking them...on my phone...(see previous statement as to why they aren't on computer!!!) I'll have to get Jared to help me out with that!!

A Long Way to Go....

2011-07-16T15:17:00.000-07:00

I was just doing some "blog-stalking" and read where one of them has been blogging for about 3 years- same as I have- and has over 200 posts...

I've got a long way to go...

Lately- my reasoning for not sitting down is that when I do sit down here at the computer- I'm gaining inspiration for all of my latest home projects...reading nook for the boys, laundry room make-over of sorts, new organization projects, nursery ideas, sewing projects...then I have to actually GET UP and do them! I'm in the process of getting some things done, so that's good!! Right now, Miss Molly Claire's (yes, that is baby girl's name!) nursery is a D.I.S.A.S.T.E.R. area and has yellow tape crossing the doors to prevent anyone from entering the scene except for me. {okay, no tape- but Jared might appreciate it if there were} I would take a picture and share it with you...but I really am rather embarrassed over the state of it right now!

Operation "Getting Ready for Baby Girl":
Step 1: Name the baby girl. Molly Claire is the name that we have chosen. Jared still says he isn't for sure on it, but I figure if I keep going ahead with it and get things monogrammed he can't change his mind- right? He says she has to be brunette to have the name "Molly"- he's so particular. So, baby girl- you better come out dark-headed (and with hair like Owen pretty please so I can put a bow in it!)- because if not, you may be coming home nameless for a few days!
Yes, we will call her both names- "Molly Claire"
No, much to Miles' dismay, her name will not be "Jingle Wheeze (Jean Louise) Molly Pla-her"
No, there is no family significance to either name. And even if there is a distant cousin twice removed I think I would rather not know at this point. Jared and I purposely did not name her after anyone in either of our families simply to avoid hurting any feelings! Maybe it's my overly-hormonal sensitive self, but both of the boys have family names and I absolutely love their names. What if we don't have another girl and we used one side of the family's name and not the other's? I don't think I could live with the life-long grief (self-imposed, of course). And it would annoy me to no end. Is this sweet little girl the last for the Darby clan? I don't know, but I also know you can't predetermine gender of your future children! (I read a most well-written article recently on mothering- it's here if you're interested)

Okay- off my soap box on that one...moving on...

Step 2: The guest bed has been taken down, so if you were planning on coming for a visit, plan on sleeping on an air mattress! And it will probably be taken upstairs {see beginning of post for this reasoning}

Yes...that's only two steps...

Step 3 I'm sure will involve actually purchasing some clothes for this child!!! It would not behoove me to dress my little GIRL in blue sleepers with dinosaurs. I have gathered all the boys' clothes that I'm ready to get rid of (taking out precious keepsakes, of course) and am ready to pass on, consign, etc... I looked up information on a local consignment show and it completely overwhelmed me. So I passed on that one. It's a pretty big one, though, so maybe others aren't so intense??

In other news......

Soccer is almost back in full swing- summer training right now, regular season starts up in about a month. So we've been glad to have Jared around the past couple weeks! I tell you what...I'm learning some things about parents, folks. I pray I never become an awful "sports parent" no matter what my kids are involved in. Seriously. It's ridiculous. Lord, spare me the drama. The junk Jared had to put up with the months of May and June was beyond ridiculous.

anyway.

Miles starts preschool in just a short month!! I'm beyond excited about this for him!!!! We got his supply list and welcome letter in the mail a couple weeks ago, and while I started making plans, Jared got a little weepy-eyed!! Go figure!! He is constantly impressing us with his vocabulary and spelling skills. I'm not going to be able to spell things out much longer with him. One of his favorite things to do right now while I'm cooking dinner or in the kitchen is to pull a chair up to the bar and stand there and talk my ear off- about anything and everything. Some days, I can tell he is making up stories. Others, he is talking to me about his friends or about what he and daddy will do when daddy gets home. I love this precious time. I know there will be days in the future that I'm dragging information out of him. I hope he does know he can always come to me to talk, though, and that I'll always be approachable to him!

Our little explorer at the Butterfly Palace in Branson.

Yes, he is usually this happy!

Owen is into EVERYTHING. I was with some friends recently- both who have one little boy each (and are ready for more children). Owen was banging coasters on a coffee table. One friend (hostess) said- oh I haven't child-proofed- we decided we would just train (child's name) not to mess with stuff. Oh honey- I did the same with Miles. That first child was so trainable! The second one...ooooo-eeeee. He's been a horse of a different color!!! My sweet little mama's boy will hold his hand out for me to spank it as he is messing with whatever in the other hand!! And he's so darn cute! He is cutting about 7 teeth right now-- yes-- 7. My usually happy-go-lucky-as-long-as-you-let-me-do-what-I-want baby boy is 17 months and has had 6 teeth up until about 2 weeks ago. Then decided to cut all these teeth at the same time!! I have to admit, I have babied him so much, so looking at him with all these teeth is almost sad for me! He has been easy to baby!

Updates on Life!

2011-06-22T23:41:00.000-07:00

No...baby girl has no name yet...

With Miles and Owen- we just knew. Their names fit. We didn't really have any complications with them! Sweet little girl though...and we can't think of anything really that we are just crazy about! I know it will come...but a good friend told me of someone she knew who actually was allowed to bring their baby home from the hospital without a name! I can't imagine! I'm a lover of all things monogrammed- especially on little girls, and especially little bloomer diaper covers!

So I'm certain she will have a name...soon.

I've even tried to pass the task off to Miles, hoping that whatever he says will stick...but apparently Miles has learned Arabic somewhere in his daily living of life...and speaks in it when I ask him questions throughout the day. (at the end of saying the blessing...you know that sweet little one "God our Father, God our Father, once again, once again"...well at the end, instead of saying "A-men" {long a}, he says "allah-men, allah-men". I had never thought anything of it until my dad said something after the blessing and snickering at our Father's day dinner!)

Speaking of Father's day--- how did you celebrate?? I wish, oh I wish, I had been better about taking pics that day! Oh wait...it was our end of VBS program, Miles had an ultimate throwdown at church because he wasn't getting to go to VBS that day, Jared's stepmom went to hospital because of a stroke (she's doing much better and is home now, thankfully)...hmmm...and I don't exactly know where my camera is right now. But we still managed to have a good meal that evening- a man's meal-- wings, chips, beans...and we got to celebrate with my dad and Jared's stepdad- so it really did end up being a good day! For gifts, each dad (including Jared) got a tape measure (cause what dad doesn't like a tape measure??) that had a tag on it: "You really measure up!" I thought it was cute!!! Jared also got an apple TV- anyone else out there have one of those??? He hasn't shown me everything it can do yet- so I'm still waiting to be impressed! HA! We had a lovely date night Saturday night- complete with BBQ and ice cream!! What could be better??

And we get to have another one this weekend!! Our anniversary is Saturday- 6 blissful years! We are celebrating on Friday night- headed to the B&B we went to on our wedding night! I can't wait to just spend some "us" time together! Life has slowed down this week from the craziness of soccer tryouts (I won't get started on that...and parents who think their kids are allstars...remind me of this when my kids are playing...no really) but we are in desperate need of some time away from the house- even if it is just a little ways down the road!

This is the best pic that has both of us smiling in it that I have saved on the computer!

It's amazing to think about all of the major life changes that have happened in the last 10 years! Lord-willing- I pray that these ten years have seen the most changes that I will see in life! Think about it- everyone goes through these:

living at home- under mom and dad's rules, cheering at football games, dreaming about what is to come over the next few years, then graduate from high school, go to college (in my case- move off, go to school with NO ONE you know) live with complete strangers who will become some of your dearest friends in life- no matter what, fall in love (in my case- with a blast from the past), make life-altering decisions (because let's face it- to get married or not to get married is a life-altering decision no matter who you are! of course mine was a no-brainer!), graduate from college, get married, move away from mom and dad ("leave and cleave"- which I feel like we did really well!), become completely dependent on your polar opposite (paula abdul comes to mind), get a real job- that actually gets a paycheck and deposits money into a retirement account ("i thought I was only 22??"), buy our first house, decide that it's time for a baby (whaaaat??), move back home (literally for us- moved in with my parents for a year while waiting for our house in AL to sell), start a competitive soccer club (who knew?), buy our second home, decide it's time for a second baby, live life...oops-- we're pregnant again?! (Yes, Jared's boss told him he needed a hobby).

I mean...I'm seriously hoping that the next ten years aren't filled with that much change! Don't get me wrong--- there's nothing I would change! It all lead to this point in life! And I love it! But...I'm ready for some rhythm.

family pic from last fall

Anyone with me??

**sorry for lack of pics on this one-- like I mentioned-- don't exactly know where the camera is--and I'm not too tech-savvy just yet on my Iphone. I know it's easy-- just not there yet!

Some Summer Inspiration...

2011-06-22T23:01:00.000-07:00

I have gotten back on a "blog-hopping" kick...found all sorts of inspiration for some much-needed help around this house in updating some decor and just finishing up some rooms and spots throughout the house! I'm making myself a checklist...so hopefully that will help keep me on track!! Here are some different blogs where I've gotten my "inspiration"!!

http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com

http://granvillehouse.blogspot.com/ ((((and I'm loving the John Wayne saying she has posted on the 18th....my mother in law is a HUGE fan of the Duke and has passed that love on to my 3 year old- I mean seriously- what kid wants to sit and watch old cowboy movies in black and white??? I'm NOT 3 and can hardly handle it! I'm thinking I'm going to have to do something with that saying for our "man room"!))))

http://tocrave.blogspot.com

http://justsewsassy.com

http://findinghomeonline.com/blog

and that's just to get you started....they have all sorts of links to a bajillion other places...you're welcome...

ALSO!

If you're a foodie...I've come across a few new-to-me blogs---

www.sundaybaker.net

www.plainchicken.com

I like the Sunday Baker because she has two growing boys whom she is trying to keep fed with HEALTHY foods!!! I'm constantly racking my brain on new ways to keep Miles from only having PBJ and trail mix (which I do keep pretty healthy)! In fact...here are a few things I've recently tried to incorporate...besides chicken nuggets =)

Grilled PB and Apples:

wheat bread (this is what I grew up eating...check the label to make sure the 1ST ingredient is whole wheat flour--- nothing enriched- means it's been processed more)

apple

little bit of butter and brown sugar

cinnamon

Now...something you may not know about moi is that I am allergic to fresh fruit. Yes, that is a real thing. My mom found it here. Which TOTALLY sucks because I love fruit...all types (not crazy about peaches though...and yes, I know I'm from the South and should anyway...) And I especially love banana pudding, but have found that even that can make my mouth itch like crazy!! (No, I'm not going to die or anything if I have fruit like people who have, say, peanut allergies or anything, it's just terribly annoying!!) So, while you don't have to do this first step, I do. And I must say- I really like it this way because I'm a sucker for something sweet...

I sliced up my apple, while my butter was melting, added some brown sugar to butter, and sauteed my apples for about 5 minutes, til they were tender. Something about cooking them gets rid of whatever I'm allergic to.

Then I slather PB onto both sides of the bread, put the apples on the PB, sprinkle cinnamon, and put back in pan I sauteed apples in. It soaks up the leftover brown sugar and butter and is DELISH! And sorta healthy! Peanut butter, apples, wheat bread...yep- I'm thinking that covers a couple food groups anyway! And simple enough for a quick lunch!

English Muffin Pizzas

english muffins (duh) (and like I said before- we're using all whole wheat breads)

leftover spaghetti sauce (or you can open a new jar =)

cheese (whatever you have)

I personally like to toast my english muffins in toaster first, but you can broil them in oven/toaster oven if you prefer. Then spoon sauce on, sprinkle cheese, put under the broiler for a few minutes- and BAM you're done. And this is sooo easy for little hands to help with!

Few other things I've got on hand--

Homemade Mac and Cheese (really trying to stay away from the blue box that features toy story characters!), garden fresh tomatoes (when I can bum them off of someone-- same goes for any other type of veggies and fruit!), edamame (I think Miles likes to eat this just because it's fun to say...I like to get the already shelled {because you get a LOT more than the shelled} in the steamable bag- do it according to directions, then put on a cookie sheet, drizzle with olive oil, sea salt, and cracked pepper- bake those suckers on 375 for about 20 minutes {stir after 10 minutes)- DELISH)

.......anything you want to add to the mix here?!?! Please share!!

Now...while I semi-harped on eating healthy...here's a treat for ya...have you seen this blog?? I came across it looking for free fonts (which are fantastic), but her blog is soooo much fun to read...check out these- anything that combines brownies, oreos, and chocolate chips- well...you've got my attention!! Check the recipe out here.

NOW---- go get to getting inspired!!!

Friend's Adoption

2011-06-08T21:03:00.000-07:00

If you'll remember back a few months ago, I posted about adoption and what it means to me. I encouraged any readers who are adopted, who are adopting, etc, to share their story! There is a family at our church who is leaving TOMORROW headed to China to pick up their sweet little boy, Paxton! Our church family can't wait to greet them home in just a couple weeks with their newest addition! Bethany shared a little of their story with me:

God planted the seed of adoption in our hearts during the summer of 2008 after Stephen Curtis and Mary Beth Chapman lost their little girl. We also lost our first child, since then I have had a heavy heart for others who experience such a great loss. I began reading the Chapman’s blog almost daily and was touched by his love for orphans. Craig and I began discussing the possibility of adopting and knew it was something we would like to do.

Craig and I discussed adoption several times over the next two years, but we never felt the time was just right. At the beginning of February 2010, adoption became a regular conversation between Craig and me. Craig said, “If God is calling us to adopt, he is going to have to almost speak out loud to me.” Well, God almost did….. Our son was going to be baptized on February 28, this is also the day we lost our first son, Noah. We went to church that Sunday morning with heavy hearts. We were so excited to have our son baptized, but we still mourned the loss of our little Noah. After Hayden’s baptism, we opened the church bulletin. Inside the bulletin was a flyer advertising an adoption meeting at a local church for anyone interested in domestic or international adoption. We both looked at each other with tears in our eyes, and we KNEW it was time. God could have chosen any day for the flyer to be in the bulletin, but He chose February 28.

People ask, “Why China? Why not America?” God placed China on our hearts, we have no explanation. God revealed to us without question we were to adopt from China. That is another exciting story.

I questioned whether I could love another child as much as I love the three I gave birth to. God showed me I can! I have had doubts if we would have the money we needed throughout the adoption. God has provided! God has shown Craig and I so much through this process, and we both have shed many tears of excitement, frustration, and JOY! This journey has been beautiful on so many levels. I thank God that he chose US to adopt one of his precious children, what an incredible blessing!

So will you join with me in praying for the Mathis family as they travel tomorrow to bring Paxton to his forever family? Pray that the Lord will make his little spirit adaptable to all the changes he will be going through just in the next two weeks as they travel with him throughout the country and home to the US, as he has never left the orphanage he lives in!

It's a.......

2011-05-27T09:40:00.000-07:00

GIRL!!!

That's right folks!!! Some of you may have already read our exciting news on Facebook! We're so excited! Jared (excuse me....Dr. Darby...they conferred an honorary doctorate on him with Owen apparently) could tell immediately on the ultrasound screen- he said "there's nothing there!"

So not only are we looking forward to bows and all things smocked, appliqued, and PINK, I am so looking forward to seeing the change of the dynamic in our home. Jared has coached girls for the past several years, and I've loved hearing/watching his interaction with them. So I had made it a personal life goal to see him as a girl-dad! He's such a good dad with the boys and definitely is that good balance they need from us. He is very often the calm in the midst of my storm (and vice-versa- which is rare, though), while I am the cuddler and boo-boo kisser when he's the rough and tumble, get-up and deal-with-your-stubbed-toe, wrestling dad.

Needless to say, there will once again be a fruit-basket turnover in our home over the summer as we prepare for our new addition (which there would be no matter the gender of this baby!) One of my first comments to Jared was "you know you're going to have to move that furniture in the guest room again, right?" I don't think he read the fine print on our marriage certificate...

"furniture mover, (and in our case) sole "packer-upper" when you move because your new wife is

absolutely no good at it and is very easily distracted by old cards, pictures, and notes"

Other changes on the homefront will be every SUV-loving, always-have-driven-one's fear...

That's right folks...~~Jared~~ we think it's best that with three kiddos the minivan is going to be the best way to go. I'm too short for any type of suburban and putting a baby carrier in and out...others are a little too far out of our price range, even used (especially with me being a SAHM full-time now!). He texted me a little while ago, in fact, saying we should go look this weekend...so here we go. Can you sense the joy?! =)

Other exciting news at the Darby household...Clif's getting married to Lauren next weekend!!!!! We'll be on our way to AR next week to celebrate all the wedding festivities! And in very non-typical Lindsey Grace form, I am already planning and making my list of what to pack! I even plan to IRON everything we will need for the trip over the weekend! Now, that's excitement folks!

The Dentist Saga {part 2}

2011-05-16T16:16:00.000-07:00

(forgive the music...just turn your speakers off...I looked for "the dentist song" from little shop of horrors, but it wasn't on playlist! Or I guess I'll just turn it off...how about that?? =)

So...just a short six months ago, I blogged about our first dentist experience with our firstborn and the terror of a nightmare that it was.

Well, today, six months later, was no better. I tried a different approach this time. After talking with a friend last week about it, I decided I wouldn't bring it up with him. Maybe last time there was too much talk about it beforehand and it lead to the breakdown. So instead, I told the boys this morning we had some errands to run- one of those things was getting haircuts (which is generally a pleasant experience). I didn't mention the dentist {avoiding the truth} which is where we were headed first after we dropped Owen off. He was a champ last time, but let's face it, he was about nine months old then and a lot more content in his stroller than he is now! So no questions asked really when Meme came and got Owen- I told Miles I had a special errand for us to run (okay so that was lie #1, I guess).

So we pulled up. Our dentist is in the same building as the pediatrician we use and the place I used to get my haircut. Well, I couldn't avoid it anymore. He asked and as I was taking him out I told him we were at the dentist. {cue the protesting} I carried him out of the car to the sidewalk, then told him he had to walk like a big boy in there. {mistake #1 for mom} He ran away from me. Now, if you haven't met Miles- you need to know he isn't the run-away type. I've never had to chase after him unless we're playing or he's running after little brother and I've told him to stay put. Now, Owen is the run-away type; Mr. Adventurer and never looks back! So I get him inside and I go to sign us in- he heads for the door! The lady sitting closest to the door just kinda chuckles (not helping, woman!) I caught him in time, thankfully! He found a book and a toy and was content...then they called us back. I almost let him go back by himself, but he wasn't even getting up from his chair. So we head back there and he gets the death grip on my neck. Same song and dance as last time, so I won't re-hash all of that. You can click here for that drama. Of course the dentist tells me I need to continue brushing, keep bringing him even if he fusses, yadayadayada...I mean- I wouldn't do this if I didn't think it were necessary! Come on!

Then I go to schedule the next appointment and realize that it will be in November. And it really hit me...I'll have another kid then! Ah!!

Stay tuned...we head to the doctor next Monday for an ultrasound! Hopefully butterbean will cooperate and we'll be able to tell what he/she is!!!

Catch-Up!!

2011-05-09T10:38:00.000-07:00

My sincerest apologies for not keeping up....I'll tell you something- this 3rd pregnancy has been a booger! I will spare you all of the details- but one thing I will tell you is that I have found myself beyond GRUMPY! My attitude has been negative and when I have a free moment, I want to sit down and watch TV and get lost in whatever's going on in people's fictional lives! AH! Now, I enjoy watching TV- I always have- but I've never been a TV junkie like I have the past several weeks! Let's just say-- I'm glad the month of April is over and I'm on into my 2nd trimester! {{{cue the music}}}

I'm in my 16th week of pregnancy and we will be finding out in two weeks what Darby #3 is! I don't have my hopes up either way- I'm planning for both (ways that is...not one of each =) I have lots of cute ideas for 3 boys and getting rooms geared towards that way, but if it's a girl- I don't quite have the room situation figured out yet, but know that it will come! Owen will not be ready for a big boy bed yet, although, I'm pretty sure by fall, he will have already figured out how to escape from his crib. He's quite the explorer...and a little walking tornado, as well! {I should have taken a picture of the entryway before Miles and I cleaned it up...it's impressive what little hands can do with 2 minutes when left unattended!} So that means I will have 2 kids in cribs...wow.

Here are a few pics to update you on life around here!!

Miles on Easter

Owen on Easter

My Melaleuca booth at Farmer's Market

Mother's Day craft- thank you I Can Teach My Child

presents for grandmothers! *there was one more frame* *notice the difference in feet- ha!*

Jared and Dad were in charge of lunch- doesn't it look FAB!
(They picked it up from a wonderful catering place- but they did have to heat it =P)

Miles isn't really into cooperating much these days...

Best we could get...don't you like the lovely bruise on my uncrossed legs???

So if you don't live in Memphis...this is the view coming across the bridge into TN from AR.
The mighty Mississip' is a-risin' on up!

I'm Ba-aack!!

2011-03-30T21:07:00.000-07:00

Sorry folks, for the blogging hiatus!

We had a bit of a situation back in February that caused me to go "WHOOOOAAAA- whaaaat?!"- but I'm good now!

baby darby #3 at 9 weeks 4 days, March 21

Yes, people- that is the situation!

Little Darby numero tres will be here in October- but this little mama found out on baby numero dos' first birthday. I was a little shocked. I mean- I don't need to go through the birds and bees here- I know where they come from and how they're made- and I'm very thankful of the Lord's reminding me through such gentle voices and Scripture that He knows the plans for my life- and that He indeed knows them better than I!!

But it was still a shocker...=)

I've also had other issues on my heart that I've started to blog about- but then decided to hold off on...but felt like I couldn't blog about anything else until I got that off my heart--- but then decided it can wait...and it also would target a different audience than who usually reads...so I've held off for a little while...still feeling that one out.

So back to the fam--

Owen's Lumberjack party went off wonderfully! Here are a few pics from the day:

party favors- swiss cake rolls drizzled with chocolate to look like logs
"I spent a lot of time cutting down these logs for you! Enjoy!"

sadly, this was the best shot we got of him all day in his cute little flannel shirt! don't you love all the logs my sweet hubby and his dad went and chopped for me?!

needless to say, he enjoyed the cake!

So not much else to report for now...other than I will get back into a better blogging habit. I want to- not for your sake- but for my family's sake. And for mine. I'm so bad about journaling and wish I did it more- I go through spurts of it. So this is it. I must do a better job!

Menu...take 3

2011-02-14T21:44:00.000-08:00

Alright...so this is working out okay!

I forgot to post a couple other "corrections"...when we went to ~~mooch~~ spend quality time with my folks on Tuesday night, mom had already made the potato soup that I had posted for Friday night. So Friday was date night anyway- so it was no big deal. Then Saturday- I didn't really have leftovers, so we did chicken alfredo. (Just the canned sauce...I have tried to no avail with homemade sauce and just wasn't feeling like Giada.)

Okay...so tonight we had Italian chicken (easy peasy--- chicken tenderloin cooked in Italian dressing on the stove top til cooked through- yummy), green beans, wild rice, and rolls. AND Jared and I even got to enjoy a quiet candlelit dinner! Both of the boys took late naps today because it was SOOOOO beautiful here (and yes- it did snow 5 inches 5 days ago and it was 70 degrees today.) So instead of waking them up for supper, we decided to let sleeping dogs lie and enjoy our dinner in the quiet. We got sat down and Jared said "I feel like we should light some candles or something." So I did...I mean...it is Valentine's day!!!

{{{And I'll have you know...we both showed great self-control...I really DIDN'T feel like cooking tonight-- feeling rather sluggish here lately...and he was going to go to the dip (or here)...but we didn't...we figured the good Lord was trying to tell us something when we landed on tails 3 times in a row}}}

So Tuesday: I'd love to get the grill out and do hamburgers because it is supposed to continue to be BEAUTIFUL all week--- but we might just have to settle for tacos...burgers means a trip to the store to get buns and stuff! Trying really hard to stick with stuff I already have in the pantry!

(speaking of pantries...have you ever seen this?! Isn't it so cute?? Jared is wanting to take the doors off our pantry because a our house has settled, the doors dont' shut right...but who wants an open pantry?! If mine could look like this- I would do it!)

Wednesday: I checked out church menu--- no red beans and rice- but meatloaf!! Not usually a meatloaf fan unless it's the recipe I use from my good friend Anna Katherine, but it's yummy- and Miles will probably eat it if he doesn't see the chicken nuggets first!!

Thursday: for sure something in the crockpot...haven't decided exactly what yet- but I've got a few recipes in stock.

Friday: Bible study at church reading this- it's great-- I would seriously recommend it to any parent even if their kid is calm, cool, and collected! Such great insight on human emotions of anger and frustration- and really speaks to parent's heart's first before telling you how to "fix" your kid!!

Saturday: my little Lumberjack's birthday party!! Fend for yourself until party time!!

Hope you have a great week!! What's cooking at your house this week?!

Do this to your bacon...

2011-02-14T21:20:00.000-08:00

Well...I was off to a good start!

{{{keep scrolling if you want the bacon part}}}

Except my poppyseed chicken that I said I was going to make turned into chicken and noodles. (fantastic)

Easy Creamy Chicken and Noodles
(sorry for the approximate measurements...that's just how I ~~roll~~ cook)

egg noodles (i use about half a bag)
chicken stock to boil noodles in (or do water and about 2 Tbsp chicken bullion cubes) (about 3 cups)
2 big cooked chicken breasts, diced or shredded
1 can cream of mushroom
1 cup milk
1 can mixed veggies (or you can do frozen, just add them in time for them to cook. the canned you don't have to wait to thaw and cook, just warm)
cheese (if you want it- I added it, but would have been fine without it)

Boil noodles in chicken stock. Drain. Add chicken, cream of chicken, milk, veggies, cheese. Mix all together and let it sit until milk and cream of mushroom evaporate into noodles. I let mine sit for about 20 minutes on low heat.

I loved that this was sooooo easy and delicious! Now...part of it was that my cooked chicken breast was cooked good--- I had it in the freezer from when i had cooked several breasts in the crockpot a couple weeks back. I cooked it in some broth, water, s/p, and a little garlic and onion. I had let the chicken thaw all day, so it was ready to add into the creamy chicken and noodles.

Then...

the snow came.

Okay- if you read my blog and you're not from around these Southern parts...snow shuts us down for days. Half and inch or 3 feet...seriously folks. My mother-in-law said this one was a "2 loafer" (she heard it on the weather channel) {and if you need further explanation like I did...it means 2 loafs of bread}

So of course church was cancelled...meaning I didn't get my yummy red beans and rice this week!! Hopefully we'll have it next week! So once I left the schoolhouse (knowing we weren't going anywhere for 2 days) I did what every good Southern woman does...I went to the Kroger(s) for toilet paper and milk. {we seriously did need both} And it seriously snowed while I was in there!!! I also made the decision while in there to pick up some bacon, eggs, and orange juice--- we were having breakfast for dinner at the Darby's.

So. Wednesday night we had pancakes, bacon, and eggs. Let me give you a few helpful tips and hints...

1.) pancakes- use Pioneer baking mix. I use it for my biscuits and pancakes and LOVE it!! There have been times I haven't gotten the pancakes just right...and I've tried a little bit of everything.

2.) Do this to your bacon: mix about a 1/2 Tbsp. each mustard and honey, and about 1/2 c brown sugar in a plastic bag. Put your bacon in there to coat it. Place it on a wire cooling rack, then onto a cookie sheet (lined with parchment or foil for easier clean up). Put in 400 degree oven for about 15-20 minutes---- DELISH! Even the burnt parts are delicious because they're drizzled with honey!!

Okay--- the rest of the week went as planned (except that darn roast...but now I can't even think of what we did instead!) Our date night at church was cancelled because of the snow, but Meme and Jimbo came through for us! So we house-swapped! They came down and kept the boys while we ordered a pizza and got a movie at the Redbox and went back to their house to watch it in the quiet!! So nice!

Next post will be this week's menu!

music confession

2011-02-10T14:54:00.000-08:00

I've got an appreciation for ALL types of music...except for anything that involves the lead "singer" screaming into the microphone throughout the entire song, or music that is labeled "Christian" but is screaming...can't handle that...{{yes, that was a shot Clif}}

ANYWAY.

Have you used pandora? I mean...I know that it's been around for a while- but I've recently started using it on our home computer. I'm not really a CD person--- I'd rather have a variety playing- so I'm big on listening to the radio. So that being said...go ahead and go to pandora.com - and plug in "wilson phillips". Thank me later.

We're talking old school Madonna, Bryan Adams, Tiffany (yes that's right...I said Tiffany). Now I'm not really a child of the 80s...I was born in the early 80s, but I don't have older brothers or sisters, so I would call myself more of a child of the 90s I guess. But I can appreciate some good late 80s, early 90s music. Makes me wish they still did the mall tours I used to see about on I love the 80s and I love the 90s (once I was older of course, because I wasn't allowed to watch VH1 or MTV...and with good reason, mom =)

So this is what I decided to blog about today...instead of doing the dishes while listening to wilson phillips radio on pandora.

Snow pictures coming soon. We got a good 5 inches yesterday...and so much of it is almost melted!! Boo!!

so this is what my hubby does....

2011-02-08T18:41:00.000-08:00

He looks at screens like this all day to tell me what the weather's going to be like...he's for real ya'll. And no...his day job is not with the National Weather Service...he's a city planner...go put all those connections together!!!! {{{love you babe}}}

photo credit

{{{oh...and if someone can give me a tutorial on how to capture screen images-- i think that would have made this post even better...I tried to google it and that brought up even more "nerd-dom" to my computer}}} =P

menu for the week...2nd edition =)

2011-02-07T14:32:00.000-08:00

Okay---so last week worked!

YAY for me!!!

Thursday was especially hard..........Jared was set to have a meeting...I wanted so badly NOT to cook...but I did it anyway!!! So the whole week worked out! YAY!

Well...except Friday I didn't do roast...I did the sandwiches because we decided to spend the night at the mall (which we have not done in FOR-EV-UH--- in fact...we may or may NOT have gotten lost going out there b/c it was raining and we haven't been on the interstate in forever....hmmm....) So Saturday we just ate leftovers for lunch and then headed out that evening for bowling at Mexican (fajitas there were MUCH better than my sorry attempt on Monday!!)

So here's the game plan for this week...

tonight: hmmm...I have cooked, shredded chicken breast in the fridge thawing...I'm thinking I'll do poppyseed chicken and some veggies...probably better hurry up and decide, huh?! Hubby will be home in about an hour---and I still have to get dressed! AH!!! But it has been a great pajama/snow day!!
(oh--- and earlier today for lunch- me and Miles made our own pizzas! fun---he didn't like his-- it didn't taste like the "real" thing! oh well-- I ate mine up!)

Tuesday- hubs has a city meeting- and those last FOREVER so we will either do a veggie plate or might wait around at Meme's house and see what they're having for supper!! hee hee!

Wednesday- church supper (and we're having the BEST red beans and rice and bread pudding you've ever put in your mouth...we have SUCH good chefs for our Wednesday night suppers!!)

Thursday- I WILL cook that roast this week!!!

Friday- potato soup- see this post for recipe (or I have a chicken chili recipe we might do...)

Saturday- probably leftovers/"fend for yourself" =)

okay-- well there aren't too many all out meals I have to cook up this week...so I might throw in another one along the way---especially for Saturday...but lots to do between now and then! Planning for little boy's 1st birthday celebration (think lumberjack), helping throw a shower for a dear friend (think little cowboy), attending a wedding shower, and lots of birthday presents!! Gotta get that sewing machine going, folks!

What am I doing on here?!?!?

Hope you have a GREAT week!!!! What's cooking at your house this week?!

simply amazed

2011-02-01T21:31:00.000-08:00

Some of you may read Kelly's blog. Well tonight I was doing my weekly "blog-walk" and came across hers...again...which I could probably read and find all sorts of links from...but anyway! I saw where just a couple days after I had posted my blog on my heart for adoption, she posted hers as well! Of course she has well over 9,000 readers...and I probably have 20!! But I loved reading how our great God is moving in the hearts of so many families across our nation to adopt and fulfill that commandment! I truly believe that once our small place in history is complete, we will be able to look back and see where God was raising an army of God-fearing men and women to proclaim His gospel to the ends of the Earth. What a joyous thought!

I have a friend getting her story together for me, so again- if you have yours that you want to share- I'd love to be your outlet or your link to the blog world!

menu for the week

2011-02-01T14:40:00.000-08:00

Okay--- so far so good-- I've stayed on track with our meals so far...so I'll let you in on what we're having at the Darby's!!

Sunday night- we went to McAlisters- we go to church on Sunday nights at 6, so it's really too early to eat before, but too late to eat anything decent once we get home, so McAlisters it was! And I didn't mind--- but that sweet tea kept me up until the wee hours of the night!!

Monday- beef fajitas, spanish rice, corn, and black beans- tried a recipe I found on allrecipes- they were pretty good- would have been better if I had bought a better cut of meat! And I love black beans- throw a little bit of lime juice and cilantro on them- yum!!

Tuesday (tonight)- crock pot chicken and dumplings- haven't tried this recipe before, but found it on a community forum on babycenter

chicken breasts (i had 2 huge ones)
2 cans cream of chicken (didn't have time to make my own this morning)
1 cup chicken broth
about 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning (more or less to taste)
s/p
refrigerator biscuits

Put chicken, soups, broth, and seasonings into crock pot. Cook all day (6 hrs or so) on high. Shred chicken. (I just did this with forks right there in the pot). Cut biscuits (or tear =) into bite-size pieces (I used 4 grands homestyle buttermilk- not flaky- that's what was on sale for 99cents--- and they weren't close to being expired- go figure! should have stocked up- but I have been using "mary's" frozen biscuits- they are so good. Or if I have time to make my own I use Pioneer's baking mix- they are soooo good- and I like them better than using bisquik! okay- off of my biscuit tangent...) Leave this to cook in crockpot for 2 more hours on high.

Tasted good when I was tearing up the biscuits! We'll have carrots and peas with this! I'll let you know how it is!

{{{it was delicious!! owen ate it right up! and i think if miles had been a little more compliant, he would have loved it! a little salty, so i won't add as much salt next time and will probably make my own broth and/or cream of chicken. and i'll DEFINITELY add more than 4 grands biscuits! =)}}}

Wednesday- church meal

Thursday- hmmm....I'm thinking we'll be having spaghetti- quick "go-to" meal! I'm usually done by Thursday!

Friday- maybe a roast- I have one in the freezer I need to pull out!

Saturday- ham and swiss sandwiches on Hawaiian rolls and maybe potato salad?? We'll either have this for lunch or supper- depending on how our day goes!

Sunday- usually our out-to-eat day b/c Jared has soccer on Sunday afternoons, so he doesn't have time to come home from church then head back out for soccer!

So there it is folks! I'll let you know how my meal planning went at the end of the week! Sounds like a fool-proof plan, right?! I also decided yesterday once I got home from the grocery store that I'm not going to go back for at least 2 weeks- except for milk b/c Owen is on whole milk now- no way we can go without milk for 2 weeks- much less 2 days right now between him and Miles!! I'm determined to use EVERYTHING I have in the pantry!!

Playdough Fun!

2011-01-28T09:50:00.000-08:00

Thought I'd share this fun recipe I had for homemade playdough! It's so great! We gave it away as Christmas gifts for Miles' little friends this year! (idea from How Does She- love that site!)

yes, it's almost lunch and we are all still in our pjs!!

I had everything at the house except cream of tartar. But trust me, you're going to need this. I looked up why you need cream of tartar, and all I could really find is that it makes it more elastic-y and smooth. And that makes sense, because I found a recipe that didn't have it in there and it didn't work. It was more like playing with bread dough- and super sticky!

So here it is:

1 cup all purpose flour

1 cup of water

1/4 cup salt

2 tsp cream of tartar

1 Tbsp vegetable oil

4 drops of food coloring

Mix all ingredients over low heat, stirring constantly. We stood there for about 5 minutes. When it all formed together, I plopped it all in a ball and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Then we kneaded it lots (partly because it was just fun!)

When we gave it as gifts, we put some in leftover babyfood containers and small little plastic thingies that I had. Then I made up some cute gifttags (or look up "free printables" and you'll find a PLETHORA of cute stuff out there!) and passed them out! Miles' friends and our Sunday school kiddos got some as Christmas happies (we made green and red!)

HAPPY PLAYING!!!

a few pictures from us making ours back at Christmas time!

me and my happy little helper! and i know you're jealous of how good i look here...=)

and the other one!!

our red playdough...beginning stages!

had enough time to go get a bath, then come back and play for a few minutes!
And it's funny...he has those same pjs on today!!

adoption responses, part 1

2011-01-26T19:37:00.000-08:00

Here are the first few responses I had back to yesterday's post!

Keep 'em coming!!

A friend's hubby from church, Brian, replied back to me on FB:

"My parents adopted me from a children's home when I was about a month old,

and it was the biggest blessing of my life, by far."

Then my fellow Bunko junkie and XO sister, Liz shared her family's journey to adoption here.

My friend Jessica posted this link in the comments section. I loved reading this blog!

So seriously folks! Keep 'em coming! I'll try to gather at least one story a week to share! If you'd be interested in writing up your whole story in kind of a nutshell- I'd love to post it here!

a piece of my heart

2011-01-25T23:54:00.000-08:00

okay- if you've read my blog before- you know that once i talked about the desire i have to adopt. this is not something the Lord is calling us to do at this present time...but it does not lessen the heaviness on my heart of wanting to care for those who don't have a mom and dad to call their own! i have been sooooo unbelievably moved by so many people over just the last year who have chosen to go down this path. and this thought of blogging about it has recurred so many times in my thoughts! i have read complete stranger's blogs about their journey to adoption- but i would love to have a place where all the people in my world can read each other's stories and connect!

so here is what i am proposing...

i would love to share YOUR adoption story. have you adopted? are you in the middle of an adoption? are you yourself adopted? do you have any tips or websites or information you can share with someone who might be thinking about it, but doesn't know where to start?

leave me a comment or facebook msg me or email me- your story deserves to be heard {read}! feel free to leave a link to your adoption blog if you have one!

Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.

James 1:27

Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed.

Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows.

Isaiah 1:17

photo credit

Get a PEN!

2011-01-25T23:37:00.000-08:00

Here's a potato soup recipe you are for sure going to want to write down!

It's okay...I'll give you time to go get a recipe card, index card, post it...whatever!

Or hey-- just right click, save, and print this out so you have it!

Isn't picnik just great?!?! I made the recipe card just doodling around one day, then saved it. I came back to it and added the text in just now! (((and I just realized I forgot to fill in what the recipe IS!!)))

We had this one Sunday after church. It was super quick- even with the frozen potatoes! Also- I have to give myself a pat on the back...I have done a GREAT job the past week or so of meal planning! I have ALMOST posted our meal plan up each week...but I am doomed for failure if I do that!

Okay...maybe that was a little dramatic...

So how about I back-track and tell you what we've already had?!?! This girl is great about posting her meals each week

{{{{---oh-- that I aspire to be...}}}}

Okay- so I won't do a daily run through- just some highlights.

Last night we had chili- YUM. It's "Wendy's Top Secret Recipe" that I'm pretty sure was in the newspaper and my MIL passed it on to me. I personally haven't ever had Wendy's chili- so I don't know if it really tastes like it- but it is GUUU--UUD. We were celebrating my FIL's bday- so we did that and baked potatoes and we splurged on cupcakes! Andrea's are just too good to try to make my own! I told Jared once that I'll try many things- but fancy baking and cake decorating probably won't ever be one of them!

We had BBQ last week-- crockpot, seasoned rub, Corky's bbq sauce- divine. My mom found it for me on Kitchen Daily but I can't seem to find the exact recipe to link it...leave me a comment if you want me to get it to you! It was delish.

And of course we've had a chicken dish-- but this one I can't decide if I like or not. It's the 2nd time I've made it and I don't think it has enough flavor for me. But it's one of my cousin's favorites- and she has great taste buds (lol- yes at myself)

4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (uncooked)

-sliced mushrooms (8 oz square box or bag of fresh sliced; or, big jar of mushrooms....but i think the fresh r the best)

-swiss cheese

-1 can of cream of chicken soup

-1/2 cup of white wine (I may have added a tad bit more to make it a little more moist)

-pepperidge farm herb stuffing mix

-butter

-salt and pepper

*don't like mushrooms, so we omitted that*

*oh- and I made my own cream of chicken

And Owen is eating more and more...I kinda gave the babyfood-making a little hiatus. He is getting lots more tub food than I thought I would do- but something had to give right now! But he is eating so much of what we're eating and it's so easy to throw whatever into the mini food chopper and give that to him! Plus he's eating lots of soft food- so that saves on lots of prep, too! One of his favorites is chicken pot pie! It's this girl's MIL's recipe I got from the church cookbook. It is SOOOO stinking good and it makes up two pies, so I can either freeze it or take it to a friend! (I took it to a neighbor last week- plus the best brownies you will ever put in your mouth! I'll share that recipe later, too!)

Okay--- so chicken pot pie and brownies recipe- coming up with the next blog post! Maybe I'll even get fancy and put them on those fancy recipe cards too!!

So---what do YOU have cooking?!

What a fun day!

2011-01-11T00:05:00.000-08:00

Well folks....we got it...our once a year snow! It came a little early- but it did not disappoint! AND we have another snow forecasted for this coming weekend!! Who knows?! And folks...let me tell you--- this southern girl does NOT like to be cold...but I actually bundled up (and looked ridiculous because I have no need for real snow clothes- because seriously- this MIGHT happen once a year!) I mean...I'm sitting here at the computer wearing my heavy coat and gloves. A little more time consuming to type with the gloves on...but I am just COLD!

Our morning consisted of running up and down the huge hill beside our house- it's PERFECT for sledding! And this year- instead of preparing for the inclement weather with oil lanterns- Jared got something we can really use--- SLEDS! {{{love you honey}}}{{and yes- I know we've used the lanterns...once...}}

Little brother missed out on the first round, but he was up and ready for round two! And Meme and Jimbo stopped by and brought another sled! I was glad they came because I am terrible about taking pictures these days! I don't want to miss out on any of the fun, so I'm right there in the middle of things and not concerned with picture taking! All of my pics from Christmas this year are mostly from Mom's camera! I have a few on mine...but if you read the last post you might understand why I didn't have the energy to take pics...

ANYWAY...

Lots and lots of fun....so here's a few pics to show you just how excited we get down here in the south over SNOW!

Merry Christmas...a few days late!

2010-12-27T23:51:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's been a month since I last got on here...WHERE DID DECEMBER GO?!?!

I had all these great ideas for posts as I was going along...crafting away...{{{and still am}}}

OH WELL! Maybe one of these days I'll post some of my fun gifts I did!! I was so thrilled to give so many handmade gifts this year! We still have not celebrated with my mom and dad- my brother came in town just in time for Christmas from being with his fiancee's family, and she will come here tomorrow (okay...later on today because I'm up so late =) so we will be finishing our last bit of celebrating tomorrow night!

Let me just preface the rest of this post with this: I love Christmas time. I love everything about it. The reason we celebrate {{Jesus' birth and God's perfect gift to us}} I love being with family. I love traditions. I love the time off from the daily hustle and bustle. So I had to say those things before I go on to tell you about how our Christmas went...

((((this is super long....so if you need a few good laughs, just scan through....I typed this all out as a way for me to journal our Christmas events)))))

We started off our season of celebration well over a week ago with Jared's family. Love them all--- it was just a little early- and it was the day after school finished for the semester, so, needless to say, I was not prepared! I had barely gotten Miles and Owen's MDO teacher's gifts together earlier that week-- much less presents for everyone! Now, Jared did do all the shopping for the men-folk, so my f.i.l. was taken care of. But the day of- I was rushing all over creation looking for the perfect gift for my m.i.l. Now I knew what I wanted to get her- and it was supposed to be in a certain gift shop-- but it wasn't. Nor was it in the next 4 places I went with the boys in tow and my mama so she could stay in the car with my sleeping babies! ANYWAY. Jared took off work- got the gift- and she loved it. (a beautiful piece of pottery by a mississippi potter-- there are so many around here!)

So fast forward a few days...past the migraine...///ugh\\\and we get to Christmas Eve Eve. We decided to make arrangements with Jolly Ole St. Nick to make a stop by our house a night early because we planned to head to my extended family down in the Jackson area on Christmas Eve. The night went good- we had a yummy supper (courtesy a generous City of Olive Branch citizen who brought Jared a honey-baked ham =)

***nevermind that I had bought a shrimp cocktail at the grocery, only to get home and realize it's frozen***thankgoodnessforham

So we ate, read a precious children's book based on the first 2 chapters of Luke, and put the boys to bed. The next morning was such a sweet time for us to be together! Then our parents and my brother came over for brunch (we had this yummy french toast)(minus the pecans---and I just used sandwich bread). Then it was supposed to be a calm morning of getting packed and ready to go to Canton.

Then Owen was left unattended for just the shortest few minutes....and he found the stairs.

There's no good way to type this out...(I've tried)...he fell down about 4 or 5 stairs- had a pretty big bruise on his head, so we decided we needed to take him to the minor med. {Remember it's Christmas Eve} Miles ends up in the car with my parents (who luckily hadn't gotten on the road yet) and off we go to not one, not two, but THREE minor meds (finding an open one and one that would see a 10 month old). We finally get him seen and I'm sure there is a little red dot next to our name in the Methodist Healthcare system...but he was fine--- no need for any tests or scans. (Praise the Lord!) So off we go BACK home to pack and get down to Canton (we've already missed one good meal at my grandfather's (mom's dad)). Hubster was grumpy about driving at night (the same one who goes to bed at 8:45) and I was exhausted from the adrenaline rush of getting baby boy seen to!

So we get to my grandparents (dad's parents). My grandmother is feeling terrible, poor thing. We go to bed- sorta- Owen woke up several times because, oh yeah, they gave him a breathing treatment while we were at the minor med for his cough- so that wired him up good! Plus he is my little homebody and knew that he wasn't in his bed! So once we get more than 20 minutes of sleep- my dad comes in and tells us not to get out of bed. In our sleepy stupor, we realize that there's half an inch of water everywhere! (And yes, my sweet big boy was sleeping on a mattress on the floor in the other room!!!) They have finally come to the conclusion that the hot water heater burst in the night. So we pack up, head next door to my all too gracious cousin's (dad's first cousin) home (they live in the house my grandfather grew up in). Miles is upset because he isn't at "mawcharlotte's house"---the first thing that I could think of to tell him was that it was dirty?! So all weekend, that's what we heard. (Made me feel bad for saying it like that!)

We eventually have Christmas with my grandmother (mom's mom). I kicked butt at Just Dance 2- man-- that's fun!!! Miles was hilarious watching him dance to it, too! That was fairly uneventful. We make it back to my cousin's house for Christmas with all of them. Everything's going smoothly- until Owen throws up all over Jared. Poor baby! And he cut a tooth while we were gone! So as I'm getting Owen cleaned up- Jared goes to take a shower (meanwhile ALL the family is still there!), Miles has a little tee-tee accident. So all my boys are getting baths, we're getting laundry going, trying to clean up the terrible mess...

Then all four of us end up making it to bed- in the same room. I ended up with the giggles over all of it. Owen woke up several times screaming and crying over the teeth and everything else. {of course, I had given him the last drop of Tylenol I had and left the oragel at home!} Luckily Miles slept like a baby through it all! At one point- Jared said we were going home--- then. In the snow. And if you are somewhere where snow it normal--- you aren't from where we were! We close schools around here if it gets too cold.

Sweet baby ends up falling asleep (in the bed with me of course-- Jared gets kicked out because it's a double bed) and the next morning is pretty uneventful-- as is the rest of our trip- THANK GOODNESS!

Fun thing that Jared and Miles got to do-- they rode the train home from Jackson! They took the Amtrack from Jackson to Memphis (believe me-- I know this is where they went because Miles talked about it nonstop for a week!!! Isn't it funny what they get fixated on?!) So luckily, they didn't fall asleep on the train and end up in Chicago. They had a great time!!! Clif rode home with me and we first stopped at my cousin Sarah's new house {which is decorated beautifully! she is SUPER crafty- frames, staining cabinets, shutters, Lowes-- she has no fears!!} And she had the BEST supper going- so she invited us to stick around! Crock pot chicken (chicken, cream of mushroom, onion soup mix, dale's seasoning- DELISH), mashed potatoes, italian green beans. Just what I needed--- a couple hours of normalcy! We stayed so long there that Jared and Miles actually made it to Memphis before we got home!

Now we're home- I'm still up to my eye balls in a mess--- sewing machine, paint, crafts--- then there's the laundry! Ah! It all has to get cleaned up and put away soon---we're having a party over here New Year's for Clif and Lauren!

I'm so glad that even despite my best efforts---that God gave us His Son to take away all of those efforts and give us His grace freely. I'm so glad that it's not up to me to get myself to heaven. I'm so thankful that He gave us His Son Jesus and that all we have to do is trust in Him--- because I tell you what-- I'm just worn out reading what all I wrote! Believe me--- I failed so many times over the weekend---

Thank you God that I don't have to work out my salvation by works---but continue your good and perfect will in my life that my faith in you would produce good works in my life solely based on your goodness in my life-- not any of my own efforts.

So....how was your Christmas?! {said in a sing-songy voice}

And I promise that one night when it's not this late I'll post pics! I think I took some in the madness! If I didn't, I know my mama did!

Now it's time...

2010-11-26T08:52:00.000-08:00

...time to start the Christmas planning for gifts, parties, meals, and cards! Who doesn't love getting Christmas cards?? Plus, for us, Shutterfly is one of the retail partners with our favorite store so that gives me even more incentive to buy PLENTY when I buy this year's cards! (because let's face it, I never order enough and always have to order a last minute pack of 20 from that store I try not to go to! {not Target...the other one})

I think this is my favorite

AND my good friend Sara drove up earlier this fall and took us to the park for a photo session! She took some great pictures-- I haven't decided yet which to use, so I may have to use a card that holds multiple pictures....

I did just order a photo book for Owen...poor thing- Miles has 2 and we barely have any pictures even printed out of Owen!

So what photo gifts do you plan to buy for folks this year?

Are you ready for Christmas?!

2010-11-21T23:10:00.000-08:00

from Southern Living's Holiday Home Ideas

Well, are you?! I know I'd love to say MY tree looks like the above picture...but it's still in it's box...it's grand and glorious 10 foot box. I may or may not have blogged about this last year, but Jared bought a 10 foot tree last year with his birthday money. I love it...but this year something I had not even thought about was Owen and Christmas decorations! Besides the fact that it's not even Thanksgiving yet...that may be the reason I have been a little hesitant to put up our decorations just yet!

Now, I'll be honest. At the beginning of November, I made a mental note that I would take this month to remember to be thankful. But this month has flown by and all I can remember is being grouchy! Ugh! I guess with the hustle of birthday parties, teaching, soccer wrapping up, and everything in between, I have gotten caught up in being bothered by the "busyness" and not taken the time to be thankful. So here's my goal for the week----

pause.

every day.

{breathe}

give thanks to our Lord for His wonderful blessings in my life.

I have so much to be thankful for...{so much, so much, so much, so much, so much, so much, so much, so much (clap) to be thankful for}

And this shouldn't be a hard thing...I have the whole week off. No teaching. Just a dentist appointment (for myself that is...taking Miles with me so he can see it's not so bad), Miles MDO feast (which I have already gotten my assigned meal item for .check.), and getting our house back in working order from the "busyness" of the month! And all I have to have ready for Thanksgiving meal is green beans! How easy is that?!

Then, maybe I'll think about Christmas decorations!

And the Dentist Story Continues...

2010-11-16T14:53:00.000-08:00

Thought this was too funny not to share...this was in the mail today--

Bday Post, Part 2 + Tales from the Dentist

2010-11-15T22:02:00.000-08:00

Here are some pics I told you I'd post! But first...I'm going to make you endure my thoughts from the day...

Have you taken your child to the dentist yet? My dear friend shared with me today that her dentist had told her that your child will handle the dentist similarly to how they handle getting their haircut. Well- I'm glad sweet friend didn't tell me that before we went to the dentist this morning, because I would have been sadly disappointed! It was the worst experience to date with my dear 3 year old. He does beautifully when getting his haircut! Now, he always has his game face on- but there is no screaming or worrying if he will be cut with the scissors! The dentist on the other hand was a completely different story!

Now, in explaining to Miles last night what we'd be doing this morning, he told me "no". This morning, when telling him what we'd be doing today, he said "no". On the way to the dentist office, he said "no". I mean, it's not like I would have canceled his appointment or anything, but I guess I should have taken a clue that this was not going to be pleasant. So we get there and of course there are a few toys to play with (we're at a pediatric dentist). He continued on in his grumpy mood by not wanting to share with the other children (usually not a problem, especially when we're not on his "turf"). {Important to note: I had Owen with me, too- I had woken him up from his nap to take Miles to the dentist. Luckily, he was still in a daze from being woken up, so he just chilled in the stroller throughout the whole fiasco.} So they call us back, and he says he doesn't want to go. Now seriously- he is usually a little more compliant after this much insistence on my part. So I stroll Owen on through the doors and he comes screaming after me. We get to our "station" and I was quite impressed with the whole set up- not too busy or "circus-y" but just enough to make a kid feel comfortable. I mean, they did have Scooby Doo going on the TV screens on the ceiling. But he clung to me like white on rice. He wouldn't let me put him down, he didn't want to pick out his toothbrush- nothing. I tried convincing him to be like the big boy in the next chair who looked to be about a year older than him. {I didn't want to bribe him with candy at the dentist, so I refrained from that.} But he wasn't budging. The dentist came over to give the poor hygienist some help. She was a little soft-spoken and said that this happens all the time, but she didn't act like she knew what to do with this temperamental three year old going nuts! So long story just a little big longer- the dentist just did a "lap check" (which sounds terrible and I did give him a double-look when he said it) but Miles sat in my lap facing me, then I laid him down so his head was on the dentist's knees. I had to restrain his arms and legs while he forcefully brushed Miles' teeth and checked out what he could through the gritting teeth! {gosh, as I read this it seems even worse than it was!} So by the time we were finished, Miles didn't even want to pick a toy out of the toy box or get a sticker! He said "I want to go!" Luckily, we have dental insurance, so that horrifying experience only cost us $10. If it had been what our doctor visits are- we would have stayed a while longer- screaming kid and all.

Oh- and to make matters worse- I officially feel old. I went to the eye doctor today (with the 3 year old who was so "three" at the dentist--- I'm a glutton for punishment) and I have to have reading glasses. Now this may not be a big deal to many and there are those younger than me who have reading glasses-- but for some reason, with the gray hairs I continue to find popping up all over my used-to-be-blonde-head...this was just another layer of icing on the cake sending me into old age. I mean...no offense mom, but you and dad have readers...am I seriously there now?! {typed with all the love in my heart and a smile on my face} Oh, and Miles did fine- he had "Arthur's Reading Race" and a sucker. That I did not give him. As bribery. Seriously. I didn't.

Alright--- here are those pics. Do you have any horrifying doctor or dentist visits?! Please don't let me be the only one!!

had to add this one- my recent favorite family pic taken at our church's fall festival (yes, i know owen's hat is too small and that miles is eating the world's biggest blow-pop!)

miles and the noisy gift i picked out

i wish you could see how he's blowing his candles out- he is making the "f" sound (do it, you'll see why it's funny)

party favor tags

bday boy and his precious shirt meme made him!

great cake!

finding nerf darts everywhere- this was on the fridge. i also found one on the crown molding in the kitchen.

jared's orange creamsicle cake

we used the dining room AND lit the candles!

he's happy- especially when he has food

notice jared's mom...

getting some pointers from jimbo

the middle was.....marshmallow.creme.yum.

Birthday Season

2010-11-13T22:29:00.000-08:00

Well, we all made it out alive! Birthday season is over for a short little while around the Darby house! We will start back up strong in January, though, with all of Owen's little friend's first birthday parties, then his in February!

Miles' birthday and train party was a success! I will definitely say that this year's birthday experience was the best yet! He knew what was going on, loved getting presents, and was so gracious of the gifts he received! It was so much fun watching him open presents, but even better hearing him tell the gift-giver "thank you" on his own (most of the time!) We celebrated his actual birthday with a trip to Cracker Barrel for breakfast with the grandparents. Then Jared's parents came over for supper that night while Papaw and Jared worked on Fort Magnificent {separate post at a later date when I've recovered from the drama of it all}. His actual bday was on Monday, which meant the party wasn't until the next Saturday. So by the time the excitement of the day and presents had worn off, we turned around and did it all again! But his party was so much fun! We have been blessed with so many sweet friends and our church has got a bajillion kiddos right now- and we're overflowing with BOYS!

Jared's birthday was Friday and we had dinner at our house with my parents and his. He requested spaghetti and fettuccini alfredo, so I was happy to oblige! I will admit....I went store bought on all of my ingredients! I usually do on my spaghetti sauce because I haven't found a homemade one yet that I'm sold on- and I've always loved my Ragu! And I haven't done alfredo sauce before and, of course, all of the ingredients are t.e.r.r.i.b.l.e. for you-- I'm not really big on butter, so I couldn't imagine myself melting a whole stick of butter and then adding heavy cream, then eating it--- so I figured if I didn't have to see what was going in it, I wouldn't think about it as much??? Surely someone out there understands my logic??? Anyway--- pasta, salad, bread (which I did doctor up myself....didn't use your recipe Heather, but will soon), and birthday cake--- but oh not just any birthday cake- an orange creamsicle cake from Andrea (who also made Miles cake). I will admit-- it was delish and I'm not really big on "orange"...I'm more of a classic chocolate girl!

The biggest hit around our house this year for gifts has definitely been the introduction to Nerf guns...wow. I am finding little darts all over the house! There was a major battle in our house last night after dinner (after Jared received his Nerf gun because Miles got one for his birthday). Our number one rule is "No shooting Mama", and then "no shooting Owen until he's big enough to defend himself".

Okay- so sorry there are no pics to go along with this post- there's a little screen on the computer saying that all my space is full???? And I am not a "computer nerd" so I have no idea how to fix this problem. I dare not try tonight to learn! So I will get back on here ASAP and show you some pics from our parties!

Any fun birthday parties you've been to recently?!

My "Bucket" List

2010-10-27T22:43:00.000-07:00

Now...don't worry- I'm not about to list off 100 things I want to do before I die...just about 10 things I want to do before I'm...say...40---how about that?! I wasn't able to listen in on our team training call on Monday night {late night diaper run before MDO the next day}, but as I was talking with my team mentor and friend, Kristie, she filled me in. The call was about vision. Now it was more specifically geared toward vision for your business, but isn't vision in anything a good thing? I know that the Lord calls us to look Heavenward, so I know that that is my ultimate vision. But I also know that he wants us to live lives that direct others towards His light and goodness and mercy. So as I have been thinking about my vision for life- here are a few things I want to do- some fun, some serious, but all in a way that pleases my Savior.

1. Have more children...biological and adopted. I don't plan on being the Duggars, much less the Brady Bunch...but I do know that my future holds more children and I look forward to filling our home with them! So I guess possibly the Brady Bunch (in number of children...not blended- Jared's stuck with me! Even though I assume Carol and Mike's former spouses died?? Okay...anyway...)

2. Adopt. I know that this one kind of goes along with #1, but it's so heavy on my heart. I know that the Lord has a lot of work to do on my heart and Jared's before this will happen, but I am confident that it will. The Lord laid this desire on my heart while I was in college, and I know that "He who began a good work in you will be faithful to carry it into completion until the day of Christ." {Philippians 1:6} I have found so many adoption stories and blogs--- it would take me another hour just to list them all here. So do me a favor---if you are adopting, have adopted, or plan to-- please share your blog or story with me in the comments section. I'd love to do a post dedicated to all the adoptive families I know-- whether we're BFFs or acquaintances or blog stalkers or old friends from the good ole UU days!

3. Be at home FULL-TIME. Our schedule is nuts around here. I absolutely LOVE working with the homeschool group I work with- and I can truly see myself continuing to do this once my boys are school age. But with all the time and energy Jared puts into soccer, it would be so much more beneficial for all of us if I were at home full-time.

that being said....

4. Build my Internet CEO Moms business. This team has been such a blessing-- moms helping other moms work from home- most of us have the same vision of being a stay-at-home mom. I think that this is truly the best work-from-home business out there. There are so many great opportunities--- but this one is definitely the best one that works solely from home without having to do outside parties or take in/buy your own inventory. The company we work with is great and I know that we would still be members even if I weren't building a business with it! In fact, only 12% of their customers build a business! That tells you that 88% of their customers are completely satisfied being just that-- customers!

5. Take Jared on a trip to Disney World. He has never been and I went once in the sixth grade. I know that there are 100 million things to do there- but before we take our kids, I want to take a trip just the two of us! And he wants to go to Harry Potter World, so I guess I will go along with that one, too!

6. Go on a mission trip as a family- regularly. I know my kids are still young now to take a big trip, but, hey- I have til I'm 40 to get this list done! Plus there are so many opportunities close to home- I don't want my children to grow up thinking that everyone is raised the same way they are. I feel like my parents did a good job at that with us by letting us participate in different missions opportunities, but you always want to go a step further than you were taken, right? When I was in high school, I had such a passion for missions. I thought at one point that that's where the Lord was leading me- full-time career missionary. Not that I still don't (and not that He still couldn't), but life has happened and my thoughts outside of my "world" have become fuzzier over time. That takes a lot of pride swallowing to admit, but it's so true. We have some good friends who are getting ready to move to Vancouver to partner up with a group already there. I'm so thrilled for them and for their faith that God has led them to this point in their lives!

7. Now this one may be a little silly...but ORGANIZE ALL MY PICTURES, PRINT THEM OFF, MAKE SOME TYPE OF PHOTO BOOK FOR MY CHILDREN TO HAVE! I absolutely LOVE looking at mine and Clif's baby pictures! I need to be better at printing off Miles' and Owen's pictures! AH!

8. Now for another silly one--- start and COMPLETE a sewing project. I have a machine. I have material. I have patterns. Now...just do it. Right??? I have about 4 or 5 different paint/wood/canvas/chair recovering projects going right now...maybe I'll get them finished and given or hung up {or sat on} around here soon!

9. Okay...so I guess 8 is all I have right now!

I encourage you to do something like this...you don't have to blog about it...but I'm not a big journal-er (?), so this was the best way for me to write it out and put it "out there"!

Adventures in Babyfood Making

2010-10-25T22:28:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know, I have ventured out this go 'round with Owen...I have been making his babyfood. Now, this is a more widely practiced activity than I thought to begin with! I have a few friends who did it with their kids who are a little older than Owen, and I have a few friends who are doing this now with theirs who are about Owen's age. My greatest resource has been WholesomeBabyFood, and then just my imagination! They have recipes for everything under the sun! I feel like Owen has been exposed to foods he might not have had on tub/jar food. And I feel like I've been able to give him more finger foods a little earlier because his system is already used to "regular" food???? (But teeth will HAVE to come in for us to move on up in our food adventures!! The child still doesn't have any!)

There wasn't any particular reason that I did this, other than I thought it would be fun and I knew of a few friends doing it, too! I didn't, however, expect Owen to become a "food snob" over it though! He won't touch the tub/jar food! So he hasn't had too many greens up until now. I did start him on some English peas recently as finger foods. We went out of town in August and I thought I would make it easy on myself and purchase 3 days worth of food---- WRONG. Owen didn't touch it! I even bought the good stuff--- not just peas! So he had a lot of mushed up bananas that weekend! I've tried getting Miles in on some of the action...sadly- one day I had some pears and peaches (fresh- hadn't been boiled down or baked yet), and I offered Miles some in a cup and told him what it was. He is so used to the canned stuff that he told me that I had not given him peaches and pears! So I am slowly introducing Miles to the "real" stuff! I may try to ~~trick him~~ get him to try some orange applesauce! {see middle pic below}

Now I haven't been so particular as to make my own oatmeal and biter biscuits and stuff. Sounds great and I think I'd have fun doing it- because I truly have enjoyed making his food- but there just aren't enough hours in the day! And so far I have only had one thing not turn out the way I wanted it to--- spaghetti squash. It was just too stringy and I don't think I cooked it long enough. I was really grainy. (And did you know that it's called spaghetti squash for a reason?!)

So-- what was your preference? If you started with one kid, did you feel like you needed to do it with the rest of your kids? As I was standing in the kitchen tonight making up food, I was thinking that Owen might be the "favored" child...not sure if I'll do this for the next {hypothetical} kiddo! I didn't do it for Miles and he turned out to be a great eater! (Although you wouldn't know it looking at his skinny self!) Hope doing this doesn't make Owen a picky one!

What I started with the first time (after he had been introduced to most of these things)-- bananas, acorn squash, avocado, peaches, sweet potatoes, and cucumber.

My products from tonight- blueberry peaches, pears, blueberry pears, carrots, and carrot-applesauce.

The mess...in an "organized" fashion...after I had cleaned up the counters.

"Help!! The Baby's Out!"

2010-10-18T08:09:00.000-07:00

Babyproofing. How much do you do? Are you super safe? Bumpers on every piece of furniture, locks on the toilets, finger-smusher proof doors? Do you just do a few basics? Cabinet locks, an occassional baby gate?

I find myself in between. We have a gate at the top of the stairs- but I hate it. I mean- I'm glad Miles can't get down (yet) by himself. But it would just take one climb or extra strong temper tantrum to send it going down the stairs! The particular gate we have isn't one that you screw into the wall. We will soon have to get another one for the bottom of the stairs when little mister decides to start crawling! {{we're safe for now}}

Then in the kitchen, we have cabinet locks, but not everywhere; I wanted Miles to be able to have a cabinet all to himself. And I tell you what, it has been the source of many imaginative, entertaining himself times that he has had! That empty cabinet is his office, his tent (with any toy that makes light) and he lets me know when "stuff" ends up in his cabinet! No fits- everything is just neatly stacked outside of the cabinet (he gets that "neat-stack" thing from his daddy!)

What about your fireplace? How do you babyproof it? Ours is open in the wall, with a chain screen (how the house came). It's not like it gets cold enough here to use our gas logs-- maybe two or three times a year?! We bought a screen- but it isn't very heavy- which is good and bad...good in that it won't hurt as bad if it fell over, but bad in that it could fall over and it would hurt! I do wish it had a glass door---so tell me- how do you protect your little one from the fireplace??

But you know? No matter how much "proofing" we do- baby will still have those accidents! We had one yesterday- on an unsuspecting object! Owen is trying so hard to get around. He had wiggled himself close to the recliner in our room, his arms gave out, and he banged his face into the handle on the chair! I was right there with him, but it happened so quick! Do you have any of those type stories, or am I the only one?! Surely not...oops- gotta go- another tearful bump awaits mama's kiss!! Share your story with me!

Uh-oh! Look below his eye- accident #1 of a million more to come, I'm sure! Poor baby! And the teething sure doesn't help the fussiness!

A Lazy Sunday Morning

2010-10-17T09:57:00.000-07:00

Now, if you know me, you'll know that I would normally be at church right now...but the babies woke up with the yucks and Miles was coughing a good bit, so we decided I would stay home. And while I missed being in SS with our kindergarten kiddos, and worshiping with our awesome church family, and listening to Bro. Chad bring the word- I have enjoyed a lazy Sunday morning and spending some QT with my boys! What a sweet and precious time we had- and I enjoyed watching them play and interact! Plus- I got lunch cooked, which hardly ever happens on a Sunday! Thank you {crockpot}! I'll let you know how this new recipe turns out!

Our morning was filled with a nap for Owen (a little earlier than usual), Miles playing outside on his trike (it's a beautiful day here!), and some good ole' brother time on mama and daddy's bed! Daddy came home early and we're just enjoying being in the same room for a change! Jared has plans to start "Fort Magnificent" this week. He has taken a week off of work to take off on this endeavor. Blueprints, lumber companies, borrowing big ole power tools, and everything. I'll document with the camera and post later. We're hoping for no trips to the emergency room...{fingers crossed}.

Here are some pics from our morning! Hope you all have a fabulous week! We started ours off great! And the boys are already feeling better having had a low-key morning, so we'll be back at the church house tonight! I need to go now....crockpot is about to go off, and Miles is pushing Owen around in the walker- poor Owen. Oh- and Miles is saying "Come here, honey".........to me. (love him)

Fireman Miles, but he's on a train, not a fire engine or lion.

I wish that you could see the mohawk better!

Sweet brother time!

What better place to have a peanut butter sandwich, oranges, and wheat thins than the dining room table?! At 10:30 in the morning?!

Daddy time!

Trying out this walker thing! As with crawling, he can only go backwards!

Kid-isms

2010-10-12T07:31:00.000-07:00

Now, if you're the mom to, or ever have been the mom to, a kid--- you've probably got some hilarious stories from your kiddos childhood days. Just thought I'd share a few of our "kid-isms" from the past couple weeks:

Miles: some of his favorite phrases these days include-- "well....why not?" {said in the cutest question voice ever}, "that's not my choice", "i need to reeeeeaaaach"
Cute story: Last night, my mom and dad brought him home from their house after supper. Now, Miles is on a bit of a food strike these days- all he wants are french fries and fruit- the fruit part is fine- but the french fries, well...there could be better choices! But considering this- he ate a great supper last night- butterbeans, english peas, a couple bites of chicken tetrazini, pears...but as they passed by the MickeyD's on the way to our house, mom heard the quietest "I'm hungry" from the backseat. She and dad just continued on with their conversation. They heard it again a little bit down the road, "I'm hungry, I want McDonalds." Oh the power of suggestion! {Meme and Jimbo did not cave...she told Miles that all the McDonald's people had to go home and go to bed, too! Nice save, Meme!}

Owen: of course, he has no favorite phrases these days- but I love watching him respond to his name and different voices! He doesn't "talk" as much as Miles seemed to do, but when he does talk- it's usually very loud! He is sitting up beautifully and has been since about 4 months- but the crawling thing is a different story! Oh, how he tries! He can scoot backwards all day long, can turn around in circles on his belly...but try to go forward--- it's a no go! He gets so upset, too! He is pretty relaxed and laid back all the time, except when he wants to get somewhere! And it's a MAD cry! So pitiful! You can't help but chuckle and feel bad for the little guy! He'll get it all too soon, and my world will change once again! I think Miles is his favorite person (besides me). His face lights up when he hears Miles voice or sees him! He can't wait to be in the middle of all the action! But for now, I'm enjoying him as my hip baby!

Now- leave a comment with your favorite "kid-ism" from lately, or one you remember of yourself from when you were a kid!! Look forward to hearing yours! Or if you want to leave a link to your blog--- do that! I'll come on over and follow YOU!

**Sorry no pics...I've been terrible about pics lately- my mom has been taking them

like crazy, though! I'll have to get a hold of her card soon!**

Ode to Jared, part deuce

2010-10-08T13:58:00.001-07:00

The Rush was featured in the Desoto Appeal section of the Commercial Appeal today!! Check it out here.

It's FINALLY fall!!!

2010-10-01T21:49:00.000-07:00

WOO-HOO!!

Fall for the Darbys means soccer (what's new), pumpkins, and birthdays!!! Miles will turn 3 in exactly one month- we are planning a train-themed birthday for this year's festivities! Jared will turn ___ Nov. 12 =) It seems like the past couple years we have had multiple parties going on during the fall, but this year they have slowed down a little bit- maybe it is because it will pale in comparison to the parties we will have in the spring- talk about a major baby boom around Owen's birthday! But we'll save that post for springtime!!

Tonight we had a fun-filled evening with friends at the Mid-South Fair!! It was GREAT! Now, we definitely spent WAAAAAY too much money and ate WAAAAAAY too much sugar- but hey- it only comes around once a year, right?! This year was a blast compared to last year- Miles didn't get to ride hardly any rides last year- this year he was all about some rides! It helped that we were with friends and that good ole' dad was there to ride with him! Jared is going to be the BEST when the boys are older- I don't imagine the words "oh that's just too much to spend right now" will EVER come out of Jared's mouth when it comes to going to the fair! He loves it! He's such a big kid himself! Our friends had older girls who were old enough to ride the rides, just not old enough yet to go walking around alone. So Mr. Jared was the "cool" dad who wasn't their dad and took them on the big rides while the rest of us hung out by the kiddie rides!

Here are some pics from the evening!! I hope you enjoy your fall!

poor miles...he was passed out before we even GOT to the fair! he had already had a full day of fun with dad!

miles is in the cart between the green flower and the pink pole.

miles and his buddy jack

jared and miles and jack on the boat...this one was close to being the end of it for miles.

my little sweetie!

miles and jared on the ginormous slide!

TURKEY LEG!

the only motorcycle i will ever let miles ride =)

enjoying a funnel cake for meme!!

out past bedtime...i'm paying for it now- he isn't sleeping good tonight!!

Oh! And be sure to check out my other blog....My Safer Home about this month's promotion!

Ode to Jared

2010-09-20T21:11:00.000-07:00

Tonight, as Jared was off coaching soccer and I was at home with the boys because it is September and it is still 95 degrees outside {RIDICULOUS}, I got to thinking about all the great things about him and the wonderful things he does for our family! So here's my Ode to Jared and why I'm so proud of him right now! (Okay, so it's not in song form, but you can hum "Thunderstruck" if you're so moved- it's his favorite...thus the music)

He and his friend Chris- who he has been friends with since they were little- started a soccer club a few years back. Started with just a couple teams--- WINNING teams. They were first known as the Olive Branch Rage. After just 2 seasons, the Nike Rush in Memphis noticed them {they were coming to their tournaments and winning first place} They soon came to Jared and Chris and asked to take them in under the umbrella of the Nike Rush. So now, Jared is the director of the Rush Olive Branch, coaches 2 teams, and, while his teams aren't doing so hot this season, the club as a whole is still getting LOTS of recognition! Jared has an interview on Thursday with a lady from the Commercial Appeal. She told him today that there will be a full page write-up on them. A photographer is coming out to their practice and everything! Jared even met with the soccer coach from Christian Brothers tonight...if you're involved in the Memphis soccer world at all--- you know this was a big deal! He has just taken notice of the club and is wanting to help develop soccer in the outlying areas of Memphis.

So Jared, know that I am impressed with you...if we're going to have to share you, I'm so glad that it's doing something that you love and can be proud of! I'm so proud of you! I love being a soccer ~~mom~~ wife.

Haircuts!

2010-09-18T13:08:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pics from our recent visit to the hair-cuttin' place...I didn't take any pics of Jared getting his haircut...sorry! {ha}

Miles had his GAME FACE on!

Owen just wanted to eat the cape! (Aren't you impressed with how well he is sitting in that seat?! Just kidding- he's sitting in the bumbo!)

After about 3 or 4 minutes, he was starting to fuss!

He's done!!

Luckily, our stylist has a little one with MORE hair than Owen, and just a few days younger than him!

So she knew how to handle it!!

And while we had Dad with us, we decided to take a trip to eat Pizza- after all, it was "P" day at our house!

Owen sacked out on the booth-- too much excitement for him!

I've Been Published

2010-09-14T10:44:00.000-07:00

Our good friend Lauren, who is a Child Life Specialist at LeBonheur, has started a blog centering around her parental experience! She recently asked me to write up a little guest column for her- here's the link:

LG's SAHM article

Enjoy!

the one where lg gets sick...

2010-09-12T23:32:00.001-07:00

You remember how on "Friends" all the episode titles started with "the one..." ? Well, yesterday felt like an episode of "The Darby's" and the title of this one would be just what I named this post.

I have had some type of viral head and throat junk that made me think I was having yet another case of strep throat. But I learned after this past summer's experience that getting to the doctor asap helps. So off I went- throat swab, test negative, thank you, Lord. So after 2 days of antibiotics, I still felt yucky, but no time to slow down in this life!

Saturday morning rolls around, and like most Saturdays during the fall, we had a birthday party to attend. Now, we have not taken Miles to the sacred {dreaded} land of "Chuck E. Cheese"...we have heard of parents who go and they never return; children who go in as perfect angels, and come out as hellions; families who once had a few extra dollars to spend on their children, and their wallets are drained when they leave. Okay, so maybe it's not that bad...but we have somehow managed to avoid the place....until Saturday. Lucky Jared had soccer all morning, so it was up to me to take Miles to the birthday party @ said locale. Owen stayed with my wonderfully gracious mother-in-law so all of my attention could be on the birthday party attendee. I imagined it would be like a casino (now, I have not ever entered a casino, but I would imagine it to be kinda dark, no outside light, no clocks on the walls, a haze of smoke across the room, the tacky carpet in shades of maroon and hunter green...) I was wrong to a certain degree- it wasn't terribly loud (of course it was 9:30 am), the workers were all very pleasant, the games and rides weren't disgustingly stained with snot and drool. Miles didn't know quite what to think, but once he figured out that the tokens made the cars move, he was all in. He was very particular about which games got his tokens, though. Once it was time for pizza and cake (and yes, it was about 10:30 a.m.), it took some convincing to get him to the food table. Once we got there, everything was going good. We both ate a slice of pizza (at 10:30 a.m.) and a piece of cake (at 10:30 am)...then Chuck E. himself came out- and, oh, did Miles have his game face on!! But no major upsets. He played a little more and I could tell he was really getting the hang and I was going to have "that" child once the time came to get out of there! BUT luckily- I had been collecting the tickets at the few games he played that gave them out (and stolen a few from the games where kids forgot to get them after playing--- I know, I know). Lucky me, his 26 tickets got us 2 of the smallest tootsie roll suckers you could get!

I'm sure you're wondering now what all this has to do with me being sick....

Soon after we left, I felt it coming...I was quite the unpleasant sickly person all afternoon. I called our family doctor on his cell on a Saturday afternoon to tell him I had food poisoning. He told me lots of doctor jargon and said I didn't, it was just a reaction my body had to......maybe the pizza (yes, it was the pizza), maybe the cake (doubt it...), or maybe the combination of having it all at 10:30 in the morning?! Anyway you put it, I doubt you will see the Darbys making any type of trip to Chuck E. Cheese any time in the near future- birthday party or not!

Dear precious Amanda,

If you read this, know that I love your darling middle child and I'm so glad we were able to celebrate her birthday with you and I will not forever hold it against you that because of this party I had to make that dreaded first trip and that I was sick all afternoon because of it! I know we will be back there sometime soon for another sweet friend's party, this was all just written in good humor and fun! I just probably won't participate in the "eating" part of the next party...

I love you, sweet friend!!!

Recipe Share!

2010-09-03T21:06:00.000-07:00

(turn your speakers up for some nice classical numbers)

Who isn't always looking for a good recipe?! A few weeks back, I posted a status on facebook asking for some new recipes--- I was OVERWHELMED with responses, so I figured I'd share a few of the ones I have tried out! Hope you enjoy!! Feel free to share one back with me!'

This first one is from my lovely soon-to-be sister-in-law- Lauren. Now I'll admit- it wasn't my fave--- but definitely something different and one I'll try again- maybe cut down on the lemon and add some chicken!

Creamy Lemon Fusilli w/ Tomatoes and Spinach

2 tbsp. olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 c. heavy cream

3 lemons, zest and juice

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. pepper

1 lb. fusilli pasta (or any kind of pasta, really)

6 oz. spinach (i used a little less)

1/2 c. grated parmesan cheese

1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes

heat the olive oil in a saucepan. add minced garlic and let simmer. add heavy cream, lemon zest and juice and salt & pepper. bring to a boil - lower heat and let simmer for 10 minutes. it should begin to thicken.

cook the pasta per directions. drain and return to pot.

add lemon/cream mixture to drained pasta and cook over med-low heat for 2-3 minutes, until most of sauce is absorbed.

add spinach and cheese immediately so the spinach will wilt and cheese will melt. add tomatoes. toss. serve. enjoy.

Baked Chicken with Garlic and Tomatoes

1 1/2 pounds combo of chicken drumsticks and thighs (I used breasts b/c that's what I had on hand)

1 cup halved cherry tomatoes

4 cloves garlic roughly chopped

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper

Two tablespoon olive oil

Two tablespoons dry white wine

PreHeat oven to 325 degrees. Rinse and pat dry the chicken. Place chicken in a baking dish. Place tomatoes around chicken. Sprinkle with chopped garlic. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and white wine. Cook for 45 – 60 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. If it starts to brown too much place foil on top to prevent burning.

(this next one is from my cousin murray ann- her mama is an excellent cook, too! and this recipe is SO good!)

Baked Chicken with White Wine, Mushrooms, Swiss, Etc.

-4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (uncooked)

-sliced mushrooms (8 oz square box or bag of fresh sliced; or, big jar of mushrooms....but i think the fresh r the best)

-swiss cheese

-1 can of cream of chicken soup

-1/2 cup of white wine (I may have added a tad bit more to make it a little more moist)

-pepperidge farm herb stuffing mix

-butter

-salt and pepper

Rinse the chicken breasts and pat dry, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Mix cream of chicken soup with white wine. Place chicken in a baking dish and layer w/ sliced mushrooms, swiss cheese (1 or 2 slices per chicken breast), cream of chicken soup and wine mixture, then stuffing mix. Dot with butter; bake uncovered @ 325 degrees for 45 mins to 1 hour.

If stuffing mix gets sort of brown towards the end, cover the dish with foil and keep baking! I normally cut one of the pieces of chicken open after 45 minutes to see how much longer it needs to bake.

And one last one that ISN'T a chicken dish! Murray Ann passed this one on to me, too, that she got from here. It was probably my fave- maybe add a small can of tomato sauce- it was a little dry and could have used more sauce.) OH and make sure to have some good crusty french bread!

Okay--- I did Ragu spaghetti sauce, no green onions {bleh}, fresh garlic cooked in with ground beef, and had some fresh spinach on hand, so added it in the layers. And I got to use my fabulous Gail Pittman crock in Red Kaleidoscope pattern (that I'm so sad is discontinued...)

Baked Spaghetti

1pound	ground hamburger, uncooked
8 oz.	tomato sauce (roasted garlic flavor, if possible)
8 oz.	uncooked spaghetti, broken into thirds
8 oz.	sour cream
4 oz.	cream cheese
4	green onions, chopped
2 oz.	freshly grated parmesan cheese Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Brown ground beef in a frying pan until cooked. Drain fat. In a small saucepan, combine tomato sauce and cooked hamburger; simmer 10 minutes. Meanwhile, cook 8 spaghetti according to package directions. Mix in a bowl the sour cream, cream cheese, and chopped green onions. In a 2 quart casserole dish, layer spaghetti, half the sour cream mixture, and the meat sauce. Repeat layers. Top with parmesan. Bake at 375 degrees 25 minutes, until bubbly. Rest 10 minutes before serving. Happy Cooking!! Wish I had taken some pics of my fabulous creations!!

The Second One...

2010-08-30T06:43:00.000-07:00

What is it about this child that I just can't get enough of?! Now- don't get me wrong- I definitely love both of my children equally- everything about them and their little personalities (or BIG personalities as I'm beginning to see with Miles!) But with Mr. Owen I am finding myself more and more protective feeling than I was with Miles at this point (the 6 month mark). I am not "trying" to get Owen to do things (crawl, pull up, etc...) It's not that I don't want him to, it's just that I think with this one, I realize how quickly all those milestones come, and once they're here- they're gone just as fast and there's no returning to the days of having your baby be, well, a baby! I think I am feeling more and more comfortable in this new skin of "mom", also. Just for a reminder- with Miles, we had just moved into our home (out of my parent's house). So for the entire pregnancy with Miles and the first 6 months of his life- I had my mom right there and all the extra hands I needed at any given moment! Now- it is all me---don't get me wrong- I have all the help I need or want (or don't want...HA! {just kidding mama}) with both sets of parents living within a 10 mile straight line-- but, still- it's all on me to make sure they're bathed, fed, nurtured, don't watch too much tv, read to, loved, etc., etc., etc.

this.is.the.best.feeling.

This morning after my quiet time (not trying to get "holier than thou" on this one-- believe me this is a consistent struggle in my life) I was staring at Owen and all of a sudden I felt this overwhelming love from God and realized that as much as I love my children and have a desire to protect them and love them- my Lord has that much MORE love for me...it was almost a pinnacle perception---one that so many others have, but for me it was a completely fresh, new blessing for me today. Thank you Lord that even when I'm in a downright rut, You show me new ways that You love me. So today, my challenge to you (which came from the Lord through Proverbs 31 Ministries) is to not believe the lies that hold us captive in our ruts--- believe me- I've been in one- a self-defeating, pity-party, this isn't how I expected life to be kind of rut...

...we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." 2 Corinthians 10:5

blessings and love to ya'll today!

Has is really been over a month?!

2010-07-23T23:00:00.000-07:00

now, isn't this just the perfect picture of summertime?

Each time I blog, I have these new hopes that I will do it this time and continue on, posting weekly updates and such. Yeah right.

So here I am again- late at night alone with my thoughts! I have been making out our "to-do list" for Saturday. It's our last calm weekend...it's really the calm before the storm...

In just a few short weeks, soccer will be back in full swing, school will be started back up, Owen will be 6 months (and everything that goes along with that- eating more, getting mobile, belly laughing), and before I know it we will have celebrated Miles' 3rd birthday and Christmas will be just around the corner!! Wow- and it's only July!

Once again, I find myself so thankful for these past several weeks. We've been sick an awful lot this summer, but with that sickness, Jared has been home a lot! Random sicknesses- strep, pneumonia, migraines...and luckily it was just with Jared and me! The boys have stayed so healthy (except a little fever with Miles and a 12-hr stomach bug). We have really enjoyed some good family time between the 4 of us! I emailed Jared earlier today telling him of 2 nights during the week that were going to be strictly devoted to our own family time once fall comes around. We can get so busy going and doing that we forget to be purposeful in our lives! The last thing I want is for us to get 10 years down the road and not remember any of it!

Well I'll leave you with a few pics-- I'm going to bed!

Good night, ya'll!

Owen looking on with longing eyes...

my precious boys!

all 3 of my precious boys! we love the bookstore!

Late Night Thoughts

2010-06-12T22:06:00.000-07:00

I have sat here procrastinating long enough- so I should at least make my procrastination worth while, right? I sat here trying to change my blog background to something cute and completely messed it all up- ugh! So this one will have to do for now- did you know that "they" will show you a super cute *free* template, then charge you for all the extra cute things?! No thanks.

As I rocked Owen a few minutes ago, I was thinking about how much I love love love being a mom and having family. Not just my own immediate little family- although that IS the greatest blessing I have ever received, right below the grace and mercy of my Savior and salvation- but my WHOLE family- ancestors, grandparents, cousins, parents, brother. How amazing that He loves us enough to give us family and to experience that love here on earth. So here is a quick list of several of the things I love about my family:

1. I love that our names have historical family significance. I have always loved that I can link my name back generations of the ones who lived before me. "Lindsey" was my great-grandmother's (mom's grandmother- mom's side) maiden name. There is a country song out that talks of where this guy lives- "mamas give their babies their grandmother's maiden names". This is me. "Grace" was my other great-grandmother's name (dad's grandmother- mom's side). "Robert"- this is Jared's mom and stepdad's last name AND (double-whammy) a family name on dad's side (his younger brother is Robert *Uncle Bob*). Now, "Miles" was a name Jared and I both agreed on long before Miles was even in the world. But- once we knew we were having a boy, my grandmother (dad's mom) informed us that it was indeed also a family name! My great, great (keep going) grandfather was Miles Crocker. He fought in the Civil War- and there is a rather humorous story about how he got out of continuing to fight in the war, but that's for another time. "Owen" is from my great-grandfather (mom's grandfather- dad's side). "James" is Jared's middle name, Dad's name, Clif's middle name, Jared's grandfather, and on and on and on...

2. I love that we live here close to our parents. Over the past week, we have seen my parents at least half a dozen times and Jared's mom and stepdad at least twice. Miles has spend the night with my parents, spent an entire day with Jared's, and will probably do at least that next week, too! I love that I was disappointed that we won't be able to celebrate Father's Day with them this year. They will both be out of town! I am so glad that we will be able to have a special family time, though, and be able to celebrate JARED!

3. I love that being a mom has made me want to be a better person. I have always been a little prideful in how "good" I have been over the course of life...this has definitely been the biggest struggle and point of sin in my life. But being a mom has definitely brought the light out and shone it deep into my heart and made me truly evaluate why and how I do the things I do. There's nothing like a sweet little two year old causing you to display more patience- one thing I always thought I had plenty of!!

4. I love my relationship with my little brother. Clif and I have always had a great friendship. We are as different as two people can be- I would LIKE to think we would be friends even if we weren't related- but as time has moved forward, I have realized that my brother may have been too cool to be my friend, or vice-versa... But we are siblings and for that I am so grateful. He has met this amazing woman on his journey to the Big Apple, and I can not wait for life to happen for them and for Lauren and I to have a great relationship and friendship the way I have with Clif. I have always had a little tinge of jealousy over my mom's relationship with her two sisters- so I will be so happy when I can say that I have one of my own!

5. I love old pictures of my family. The ones that show grandparents as young couples and my parents as little kids. Especially when I can look at those and see the happiness in those young people's eyes that brought us to this point in time, or my kid's features and similarities to those before us! I have a pile of these that I have great hopes for framing and hanging in our home. And when I see them in family members houses- I just need to grab them up and copy them!! In the "seeing and doing" of life- I'm better at the "seeing"- I'm working on the "doing"!

Well that's all for now- but of course a post wouldn't be worthwhile without a couple of pictures, now would it?!

Jared, Miles, and Owen at my cousin Allison's wedding Memorial Day weekend.

I was drying my hair and this was how I found my boys:

made my heart so happy!

A New Adventure...and a couple of pics...

2010-05-19T21:34:00.000-07:00

okay seriously---someone tell me how to get these pictures to the BOTTOM of my post!!

Owen is "listening to Miles tummy". I see dr's in my future!

family pic before a date night! love the grandparents for keeping my babies!

Well, Jared and I have started out on a new "adventure", if you will??? Jared, over the past year or so, has wanted to try ordering ALL things online, like from Amazon, rather than going to Wal-Mart. Well I was definitely NOT sold on this- b/c most things you buy off of Amazon were in bulk- RIDICULOUS for us right now! Maybe in a few years when we have more kids and they are older and we are consuming ridiculous amounts of toilet paper, shampoo, etc...(b/c I live with three boys- toilet paper- and b/c my boys are very particular about their hair...)

But recently a good friend of mine who I taught with in Greensboro, Kristie, introduced me to a company that encourages moms to stay home with their kids (a BIG plus for me), helps enable you to be on track to debt-free living (HUGE in our society), and is partnered with a company that has eco-friendly products (definitely a plus with kiddos around- plus everyone is going green these days!) So I've just placed my online order for my new cleaning products. Wouldn't you like more info on this?! Leave a comment and I'll send you some info and we can set up a time to talk! I'll try to document my successes with my new "adventure"!

Here are FIVE points to consider when you are searching for work from home:

1. How long has the company been in business and what is their track record?

2. How much does it cost to get started and is it fully refundable?

3. How are you required to build your business? Will you need to buy inventory, host parties, take orders, and deliver products?

4. What kind of products are you going to sell? How often will your customers purchase something?

5. What kind of support and training will you receive?

These are all valid, important questions to ask yourself when you are searching for a home based business. There are many companies to choose from with great products. However, there are some key differences that will ultimately determine how successful you can be with that company.

I'd like to answer these 5 questions as it relates to our business.

1. Our company has been in business for 25 years and has received numerous awards over the years. They are completely debt free and currently expanding their business while other companies are struggling in the current economy.

2. It costs $29 to get started and is fully, 100% refundable.

3. We DO NOT host parties, carry inventory, take orders, make deliveries, etc. All we do is open customer accounts.

4. We promote basic necessity products that are all eco-friendly and healthier and our customers shop every month for the basic items they need for their own family.

5. Our team provides you with a tremendous amount of support and training that will allow you to build your business truly, completely from home.

You can visit me online at www.internetceomoms.com/lgdarby and click "Get Info Now!" We have an informational webcast that you can view and listen to in order to get all the details. There is never any pressure. We would love to share all the information with you and answer all your questions so that you can see if our business and team is right for you.

Owen James is here!

2010-03-03T11:02:00.000-08:00

(((((okay you blogger-smarties...i think i need a "blogging for dummies" book- i can't get my pictures below my text...so while it bugs me- i don't have time to sit here and figure it out =) if anyone wants to send me a tutorial....thanks! =))))))

my two sweet boys!

Owen in his little brother onesie from Sara!

first family pic- and, yes, I did bribe Miles with M&Ms to get him to sit by me!

above Owen's crib

Well, world, Owen James Darby made his appearance February 18, 2010 at 12:17 p.m. He was 8 lbs, 7 oz and 21 1/4" long. He has been such a wonderful addition to our family- although it's only been 2 weeks (tomorrow), I really can't remember life without him! It has been so amazing watching Miles adjust to life with his little brother. He is very protective of him and, so far, has been nothing but sweet and loving to him! Of course there have been plenty of "moments", as with any two year old- but they have only been directed at me or Jared- ha ha!

Seeing the differences between my two boys has been the neatest thing yet, though! Physically, Owen is bigger (a whole 2 pounds- which, for those of you without kids in your life, is a huge difference in newborns!) His eyes are a little lighter than Miles', but I do think they'll turn dark like his. The biggest difference, though, is all the HAIR Owen has! A head full of dark brown (and sportin' the mullet in the back) hair- very unlike Miles! Miles had his first (real) haircut right before his second birthday! Owen was two days old and needed a trim! (Of course I can't bring myself to cut my baby's hair yet, though! It will probably be a while!) And Miles' hair is still blonde! A little darker in the winter, but he's definitely still a blondie in my eyes!

I could go on and on about the things that are different between them- because there are so many! But isn't that what makes the world go 'round?! Praise the Lord!

Well, I have sat here long enough- both of the boys are down for naps, so I think I'll take advantage of this opportunity and sneak a little catnap in myself! Soccer season is up and going strong again, so Jared is super-busy with that! I need all the rest I can get right now! We have some long days ahead of us! But this is my second full day of just the three of us and everything has gone great so far! (**knock on wood**)

A New Year

2010-01-03T14:31:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

It has already proven to be a great 2010 at the Darby household! We have been thoroughly enjoying our time at home the past week- one great thing about government jobs- you have major holidays off and usually the governor gives the day before or after off, too, for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years! So Jared only had to take 3 vacation days and has been off work for a week and a half! Of course that time has been spent traveling to Canton/Madison/Brandon to see my extended family, Batesville to see Jared's dad and stepmom and stepsister, and here at home enjoying time with our parents and just being at home- getting ready to add a new little one to the mix of things! We have literally played fruitbasket turnover with our bedrooms, so there has been a lot of moving of furniture- and unfortunately for Jared and Dad (maybe Clif if he's lucky while he's here)- more to come this week as I am forever changing my mind! And as Jared has been so quick to tell me each time, our house is abnormal in that it has 16 stairs rather than the average 14 most homes have! I guess those 2 stairs make a difference! I'm not the one having to move the stuff!

Baby Owen James will be here within the next 6-7 weeks! Everything is still going along just fine...I am just ready to have this new little one here! We have LOTS of babies arriving alongside Owen...between church and other friends, I think I have counted a total of 11 arriving between now and this summer! What a wonderful season of life!

We have every intention of calling the baby "Owen", however, everytime Miles speaks of his brother, he refers to him as "Owen James"- so I may get my double-named baby after all! Miles knows where Owen's bed is...and that's about all he speaks of- but so far it has been said lovingly each time! We know his little world is going to rock in a few weeks- but he's still so young that he won't remember life without his little brother! Praise the Lord!

I will put just a couple pictures for now and will try to come back and add a few more later- but Jared is sitting here waiting on me to go to church! Ah!

Miles and his favorite character of the season- Snoopy. If we watched "A Charlie Brown Christmas" once...we watched is 1,542 times!!

Jared and I at some point over the holidays!

And baby number 2 is a.....

2009-09-22T17:34:00.001-07:00

BOY!Here is our first picture of our sweet little baby number two! He made it very clear to us that he was a little boy, just as Miles did when we had his ultrasound! Because everything has been so different with this pregnancy- nausea, tiredness, ugliness, personal issues- I had just about convinced myself this had to be a girl...but had definitely not gotten my hopes up one way or the other! I was surprised- but of course- SO thrilled about Miles having a little brother! I had actually already planned Miles new bedroom around having another boy- so I'll be able to follow through with that plan! And although we have no name for this child yet, I have been so amazed at the thoughts that our Lord already knows EVERYTHING about this child- his name, his looks, his personality- EVERYTHING!

Psalm 139: 13-16

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.

Praise the Lord and Amen!

I am a genius...maybe, maybe not?

2009-09-17T22:57:00.000-07:00

family pic before Miles' first day of Mother's Day Out!

Happy boy, waking up from a nap!

Another one of Miles' favorite places to hang out now...and apparently dad's, too!

sweet boy, ready to go!

okay...i'm not a genius b/c i selected more than just these pictures...i have GOT to go to bed. forget it =)

Miles, Miles, Miles

2009-09-17T21:31:00.000-07:00

*I will go ahead and save you the trouble...only read ahead if you're interested...there are no pics with this post b/c I am picasa and blog ignorant apparently! I promise: pics to come soon!

I realized that I haven't put much about all the great and wonderful things Miles is accomplishing right now! I read friend's blogs- they are so good at detailing and sharing so many great things about their children! While I'm not near as poetic as some...here are a few little fun things about Miles as this stage in life--- mind you, while he is FAST approaching those "twos"!

He can now open most doors on his own- he thinks this is so great- but we are definitely going to have to turn on the "beep" on the house alarm to signal when he has escaped! Luckily, he hasn't figured out the lock part, so he just fusses when he can't open the outside doors! He also thinks it's great that he has figured out how to open the refrigerator and pull out the drawer that holds the cheese! Ah! If he's really quiet and in the kitchen, he is more than likely standing in front of the pantry- doors wide open! Luckily I just keep box mixes and such on the bottom shelf.

He is saying more words- however, his favorite right now is "no" (sometimes followed by a series of no's)- but a close second would be "Hi, Mommy" or "Hi, Daddy" or "Hi, MeMe" etc., etc.- just depends who is around! And he has figured out that if he is misbehaving and gets "the eye", that he can put on his sweet voice and say "Hi, whoever is getting on to him". Aren't they just amazing little creatures?! Only in the world for just a short time- and have already figured out how to get their way?!

He is such a big boy when we drop him off at the nursery, Mother's Day Out, or grandparent's houses (that's a given). If he knows he is going to or staying at MeMe and Jimbo's or DiDi and Papaw's, he immediately says "Bye, Mommy"- even if I have to take him! He definitely has a mind of his own!

And of course there are so many more things this precious child is doing now- but to share everything makes me a little uneasy...you never know what kind of "crazies" come across people's blogs! (And yes, this pregnancy has made me a little more paranoid than I usually am.)

Speaking of the pregnancy- what a ride it has been! I do think I'm coming out of the "yuck" stage (finger's crossed, knock on wood), but what has made it all worth it this week has been feeling the baby move and knowing (without having even a peek of this miracle) that there is a little life forming in my womb right now- one that the Lord has created and already knows everything about: boy or girl, blonde or dark, lots of hair or a little bit, hazel eyes or blue, and even further beyond the little things I ponder now!

We have lots of friends having babies over the next few months, much like we did when Miles was born. However, with Miles, there was a LARGE boy population with one sweet little girl thrown in the mix! This time around seems to be a pretty good mix so far! We will find out next week (hopefully) at our first ultrasound what we will be blessed with! I really can get so excited about either one! With a boy- it will be a little brother for Miles to play with, rough and tumble with, teach, but also share mama with! A girl- so much fun just to have some pink around here- oh and bows, too! I think Miles will make a great big brother- it will just take some getting used to, I'm afraid! He is very protective of Jared and me. I mean, head-spinning, feet flailing, voice-raising- protective when one of us holds another baby! But it is also for that reason that I think he will make such a great big brother! Just will take some adjusting! And, as a dear friend pointed out, we have 4 wonderful parents right here so close who will be able to help give Miles that attention he will need during those first few weeks of adjustment!

Well I am now trying to add some pics...let's see if I can do this...thanks for reading and keeping up with us!

It's been a while!

2009-08-21T19:46:00.000-07:00

Well first of all, if you haven't heard yet...

WE ARE GOING TO HAVE ANOTHER BABY!

This baby is due in February (the 17th to be exact, which is Mom's birthday as well!) We are beyond thrilled about this news! I was hoping to have an ultrasound picture to post with this update, but they haven't done one yet! I have an ultrasound scheduled for the end of September; they think they'll be able to tell what the sex of the baby is at that point! And of course we'll find out this go around! Maybe with the next one we'll make it a surprise!

Miles in his new favorite "chill-out" spot- the computer armoire!

We are about to start back up with the "busy-ness" of life! I started teaching this past week; I am helping homeschool a friend's 7th grade daughter (who was actually a flower girl in our wedding!) I will be teaching her grammar, literature, and spelling. After just one week I learned a lot! Who knew there was so much Latin involved in spelling?! That's sure not how I taught my third graders or learned myself- but it makes so much sense! I will start back with my TST (intervention coach) position Monday. I will do 2 days a week this year. Miles will stay with Mom and Dianne those days and then go to Mother's Day Out at Trinity on the day that I teach Emily. I'm really looking forward to him going to MDO this year! I think it will be a great thing for both of us! Jared has started back with soccer as of beginning of August (not that we really ever have much of a break from it!) He is coaching the U12 Boys team this year. Their first game is Wednesday night. I'm looking forward to going to these games- especially when the weather gets cooler! I really think Miles will enjoy this season! We have a couple trips planned with the team for this year. And Jared thinks he will be headed to Disney World with a few of his kids in January for a tournament! I don't know that this will happen without me- seeing as I'll be just a "little" bit pregnant! HA! But we're looking forward to starting a fun season with the Rush!

So I guess the real reason for this blog was to fill you in on our wonderful news about the new addition to the Darby family! Hope you are all doing great!

pictures

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

As I was looking at the post I just posted, I realized I didn't have many pictures of just Miles- which is why many of you even bother looking at our blog! Ha ha! Don't worry, my feelings aren't hurt. You get over this when you have as cute a kid as Miles Darby! So here you go!

Jared and Miles at the bowling alley.

Jared and Miles on the merry-go-round at the Memphis Zoo.
Miles wasn't too sure about this. Very serious look on his face the whole ride.
He did end up on his own animal, though!

Miles enjoying a popsicle in his truck at Meme's house.

"Mama, come get in the pool with me!"

We love summertime!

2009-07-07T20:28:00.000-07:00

I suppose I am trying to keep you all guessing as to when I will post again- some of you may have given up, I'm sure. I always have good intentions, but the thought to update just comes at the wrong time! Kind of like that extra item you need to add to the grocery list that you think of while in the shower? Or that text you really need to send right then, but you're driving? I love to read other people's blogs, so I guess it's only fair of me to update ours as well!

This summer has been so relaxing- almost too relaxing??? I know one of these years when we have a house full of kids and summer becomes those 2 months between school years that are filled with camps and vacations, I will scoff at the idea that I once had a "too relaxing" summer! But not having much of anything to do has been so nice! Especially in August when soccer season gets into full swing, then September when I start working at the school again part-time. The plan is for Miles to go to Mother's Day Out at church one day a week beginning in the fall. We have been in a Kindermusik class this summer that has proved to be so much fun, so I know him going to an MDO program will be so great for him!

Miles at his Kindermusik class playing the drum!

Jared and I have celebrated another anniversary! We celebrated 4 years June 25. We didn't actually get to celebrate that day; I was in the car with Mom and Dad headed for Canton and he went to work like usual! That weekend was a momentous one- I left Miles in the care of my in-laws for 4 days! I knew he would be fine; it was me I was worried about! He loves going to his DiDi and Papaw's house (and Katie). He has a big boy bed there, his own toys, a whale swimming pool, and he has the undivided, never-failing attention of his grandparents! I went to Canton with Mom and Dad for my cousin Sarah B.'s wedding. My Aunt Ruthie, mom, and I gave the bridesmaid's luncheon that Friday at my great aunt's lakehouse near my grandparents' house. We had a lovely menu with Chicken Alouette, fresh steamed veggies, fruit congealed salad, and chocolate chocolate chip cake! All of which was prepared by mom and Aunt Ruthie! I tried to help! The wedding was beautiful and I was so glad Jared and I had the opportunity to enjoy the night together without the worries of Miles running around getting into everything!

a picture of the Brown Lakehouse (Our engagement party was given here in January '05) Jared and I at Sarah and Matt's reception at Lake Caroline.

Then of course we were so glad to return home! After a quick trip to the hospital to see my grandfather, we headed home! Pop is doing much better and is at home now after almost a month of being at St. Dominic's in Jackson! He was one sick guy! Praise the Lord for him being able to go home. He has a check up visit tomorrow. Once we got to Dianne and Steve's, we had a little boy glad to see us- he let us know he was glad by whining all night! He quickly straightened up when we go the whale pool out! It sprays water out of the top of the whale's head. But he wouldn't be happy unless Jared was in the pool with him! So Jared got creative (and a little redneck if you ask me!)

We finally did get to celebrate our anniversary this past weekend. Jared surprised me with tickets to Wicked! at the Orpheum! (Okay, I admit that I found them before he surprised me with them, but he left them out on the computer desk!) This wasn't even something that I told Jared I wanted to do- he came up with it all on his own! Bravo, Jared! Bravo! It was so wonderful and definitely one of those shows I would love to see again! We had a wonderful meal at the Mesquite Chophouse before the show and MeMe and Jimbo kept Miles for the night so we weren't in a rush to get home! We are so fortunate to have both of our parents so close!

Jared and I at Wicked! and yes that is the ceiling of the Orpheum you are seeing.
We were waaaay up there! Still amazing no matter where you sit!

Well I guess that's all for now! I promise to keep you more informed on things as the summer comes to a close! Hopefully I'll post again before the month is out! Oh and here's a link to Jared's soccer homepage. Jared is the director for the Tennessee Rush, Olive Branch (click on the Olive Branch link on the left of that page) this next year and we are so excited about all that is to come with this! It does mean more time dealing with the politics of soccer, but it's something Jared really enjoys and is so good at doing! We are planning a trip to St. Louis the beginning of August with the team for a tourney, but hopefully we'll get a little bit of time for some sight-seeing!

Thanks for visiting!!

Coupons!

2009-04-29T23:01:00.000-07:00

A friend has enlightened me to the world of coupons...I mean, I try to clip them out of the paper at mom and dad's on Sundays (the Commercial Appeal doesn't deliver to our house and I always forget to get a paper on Sundays), but those coupons usually go into a little baggie and are never touched again until they get tossed into the trashcan. BUT when I was doing my "blog-stalking" tonight I came across Carrie's and she had listed in the side column websites that you could download coupons to your Kroger card (or you can choose the store where you grocery shop)! So I thought I would share, just as she has!

P&G Solutions

Shortcuts

Now if I will just remember I have created an account with these sites...

I also came across a new blog...I put a link to it on the right...the nesting place. God is so good...earlier this evening I had just been venting to Jared about how I was ready for our house to be "done" (now I know, I know...it will never be "done"...but you catch my drift). I came across this blog, from another blog, from another blog, etc. Don't act like you don't do the same thing! But "The Nester" gave me good insights and ideas for things to do around here- cost efficiently!

Oh...and for those grandmothers and others who check the blog for Miles updates...maybe tomorrow!

Spring is here!

2009-03-20T10:08:00.000-07:00

Spring is here...and with that comes lots of wagon rides! I think that this summer, I will actually have a little bit of color about my skin and any extra flab on my arms will be gone- thanks to wagon rides and the ever so slight incline of the coves in our neighborhood!

I have decided spring is my favorite time of year (until summer gets here). These past weeks have been so calm and "un-busy"- it has been so refreshing! I have really been able to appreciate the little things here lately- the way the laundry smells after the dryer, how good I feel about myself when the house is clean, watching closely how the seasons are changing, enjoying a home-cooked meal (at my house). I am so thankful that in Ecclesiastes the Lord spoke through Solomon that there is "a time to be silent, and a time to speak" showing me that it's okay for me to quietly be minding my household. Praise the Lord! During this quiet time, I have been able to watch Miles grow and learn all sorts of new things! He is a smart little boy! It's amazing how much they know and the things they store up in their brains before letting you in on it. For example, a couple days ago I asked Miles to give me a five- something he's never done before. To my great surprise, I didn't have to show him how to do it and the look on his face told me he has known how to do this for some time now, he's just letting me in on it! Hilarious!

Some of his favorite things now include climbing stairs and into chairs, making car/truck noises with toys, touching parts of his face when asked (example- sticking finger up his nose when asked where his nose is =), playing with friends, going to sleep on his own, playing with my shoes (they are much more interesting than Jared's 2 pairs!). He loves going to his grandparent's houses. He loves to see Katie (the dog) at DiDi's, and playing outside at MeMe's. He has a Little Tikes truck at her house that he loves. However, it must be parked between something so it can't move, so that he can get in and out of it with no problems! Some favorite foods include spaghetti, a new-found love for ketchup (by itself, not on anything), peas and carrots, any kind of fruit, and this list could go on because he is such a good eater! I lucked out with this one!

Miles and his new-found love for ketchup.

He is becoming more and more independent each day! But he does want me in the room with him. If I'm not, he will come grab my leg or arm and pull me wherever he wants me to be. He also would rather sit where you are sitting than sit in his own chair. So we're learning how to manage the strong-willed child rather than squash his strong-will! Sometimes I wonder if I should stop praying for patience! Ha! Well here are a few pics, since that's really why you check the blog! Hope you are all doing great!

I know...I'm sure you thought I stopped blogging

2009-02-23T12:01:00.000-08:00

First of all, Mom and Miss Rachel- I did not forget your request for an update. I tried to update it after I saw ya'll at Newks, but my computer froze up and didn't update my blog! So I gave up, until now!

It's February and so much has happened since November- recap: first annual Darby Christmas party, Christmas in Canton, New Years with the Dmaggios, Dad's 50th surprise party...and all the everyday stuff in between! But I must say that after Dad's party, I kind of went into hide-out mode! I've been in party mode since October, getting ready for Miles party, then the first Darby Christmas party (which will now be a tradition- hopefully- so go ahead and mark your calendars for the first weekend in Decemer!), then all the things that go so quickly duringthe holiday season, the preparation for Dad's surprise party- I did not want to do ANYTHING after that! And I haven't done much, aside from the day to day stuff! We have a weekly playdate with Anna Katherine and Max and Jessica, Lucas and Emma. I work most every Thursday at HLIS pulling kids who need some extra help (although I have concluded that I can't fix lazy). Jared is staying busy with regular work stuff. Soccer season starts this week. They are about to join with the Tennessee Rush, which is a great opportunity and shows how well Jared and Chris have done with these 2 competitive teams they started last year! Of course the perks are a little more money and Jared gets lots of Nike gear! He's excited about that! Miles LOVES to be outside...in fact that's where we are now! It's a little cold, but the sun feels so good- I just took my coat off! Maybe it will help those natural highlights so I won't need the enhancement from Miss Cheryl at Freidas! I can't wait for spring and summer to get Miles outside more! It will help the days pass a little quicker I think!

An exciting piece of news- Jared's parents, Steve and Dianne (papaw and di di) are moving back to Southaven this week! They have found a house, sold their house in Mt. View, and will be back before the month is out! Yay for more free babysitters! We'll be so glad when they're here; and Miles has just started getting used to his "Aunt Katie" (the dog)!

An update on Clifton James- he is in New York auditioning at the Manhattan School of Music as I type this. This is the last audtion of the 4 he has done the past two weeks. He was in Boston, at the New England Convservatory of Music, then Austin, TX- Univeristy of Texas; Cleveland, Ohio- Cleveland Institute of Music; and now in New York, New York. He will know something in March or April, then begin graduate school in the fall. I'm so excited and proud of him!

Hopefully I'll post again before 3 months passes by again!

Month of Birthdays!

2008-11-13T19:13:00.000-08:00

November marks momentous occassions in our family- Miles' birthday is November 1 and Jared's is November 12! Jared has been notorious the past couple years for continuous celebration of his birthday beyond the actual day of his birth!! This year, however, it decreased from the whole month to just a couple weeks (actually from Miles' birthday until yesterday!) We had a cowboy party for Miles' birthday celebration! Complete with a cow birthday cake, s'more party favors, and haybales in the backyard in the "corral". I had so much fun getting ready for and planning his party! Jared did think I was going a little too far when I suggested a petting zoo and hayride- we'll save that for when the kids actually get what's going on!! But everything went off very smoothly- a little cake disaster (wrong type of cake ordered)- but crisis averted thanks to Mom keeping Miles for a few hours and Sam's having the perfect cookie cake already made (just in case we ran out of cake, which of course we didn't, so we ate cookie cake and birthday cake for a week!) Miles got sooooo many new toys- it was so overwhelming and what a blessing!! So I think I may encourage family to get him clothes (12-18mo. or 18 mo. or summer clothes) or to contribute to his college account for Christmas- especially while he is this young and can't complain about not getting the latest "cool" toy!!! Is that odd!? I'm halfway doing it for my sanity so people don't feel as though they are walking into a toy store when they enter our home!! But we had lots of friends and family join us for his party- Miles sure is a special little boy to have all these people love and care for him!

Miles had half of his 8" "smash cake" devoured in about 3 or 4 minutes! Last night when we had Jared's cake (which was exactly like Miles' smash cake), Miles didn't understand why HE wasn't getting the whole cake like he did last time! Amazing!

After his party, we had a little celebration for Jared while his parents were in town. Jared and I were able to celebrate his birthday together on Tuesday (since Jared has been in the working world, he has had Veteran's day off, which is fortunate since it always falls close to his birthday!). We went to Houstons in Memphis and enjoyed a fabulous lunch! Our dear friend Jessica kept Miles so we could do this! He enjoyed playing with Lucas and Emma Grace for the second day in a row!

I was so excited today when I found the Sirius satellite channel that is playing Christmas music! It helped me not feel so silly for wanting to go ahead and decorate for Christmas! I haven't seen my decorations in almost 2 years since we were living with Mom and Dad this time last year! But I also have another excuse for decorating early! We are having a Christmas party on December 5- so if you are reading this, please feel free to drop by!

Another Rainy Day

2008-10-16T08:22:00.001-07:00

I guess rainy days just inspire me to sit around and think about what I could post on our blog! Ilove to sit in our kitchen on rainy days- we have two huge windows (without any window treatments...hint hint mom!) and you just feel like you're in the middle of the rain- without getting wet of course! I have found Miles just sitting at the back door or staring out the window on these type of days, but now he is napping! Maybe it will be another 3 1/2 hour one like yesterday- but probably not! If only he would tell me before those big naps- "Mom, I'm going to sleep for a while, so you go get lots of stuff done!" Oh well!

Here are a few pics from last week when we went to Canton to visit family:

Miles helping Mamawcharlotte get supper ready.

Miles and Mamawcharlotte playing the piano. She would play something, then he would play back- it was really amazing! Of course that only happened a couple times... =)

Wesley (my cousin), Uncle John, Aunt Suzanne (dad's sister), Uncle Bob (dad's little brother), Uncle Bill (dad's older brother), Tommy (dad's cousin), dad, mom, me, Miles, Mamawcharlotte (dad's mom) and Pop (dad's dad) It's always a treat to visit with lots of the family! What a special heritage we have to pass on to Miles!
Ready to go to the Canton Flea Market in his "hoppa-grass" outfit (When I taught in Greensboro, the children there had their own "language": "hoppa-grass"- grass hopper, "bus left"- the bus is going to leave me; I received quite the education while there!)
"I LOVE my Uncle Clif!" Precious! He hugged Uncle Clif completely unprompted!

This was HILARIOUS! We were at Great Mama's house and Miles decided to climb into the table. It will be interesting to see if he can still do this at Christmas time! This kept him busy and us rolling and snapping lots of pictures for at least 20 minutes! "MeMe- I don't want to sit down in the rocking chair!" This rocking chair was my great uncle's chair when he was little!
Honestly, do these people have nothing better to do with their time?!

These are some pictures from last weekend's birthday festivities! Emma Grace turned 2, and Madelyn and Amelia Ray turned 1! Happy Birthday!

Miles and Daddy on the bouncy slide. Miles didn't quite know what to think!

It was nap time for ALL these boys! Miles, Ethan, and Max- none of them cooperated for picture time! Ha!

Then these are proof that our child marches to his own little drum! Mom and I went to eat yesterday and thought we'd sit outside- something different for Miles (and also to distract him a little- oh the things we'll do!) He does not like to sit for long periods of time (what baby does) and after about 5 minutes decides he needs to wiggle out of the straps of whatever is holding him in SAFELY in place and stand up. So I pushed the high chair under the table as much as possible, and this is what he decided to do instead:

And last but not least, this one is for you Sara Hudson!

A Rainy Tuesday Morning

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

I'm sitting here watching Miles eat his breakfast- he is having a blast with a piece of toast! Now, don't worry, he's had his banana yogurt, too! (Yuck if you ask me, but I'm not a yogurt eater!) I'm also not a salad eater, but hopefully I can get Miles eating them before he realizes that mommy doesn't eat them! There are so many things that I don't "do" that I do hope Miles will! Another example: I am not an animal person. Never have been! I was about Miles age when a dog "attacked" me at my grandparent's house and I have never like them since! Yes, I have caught lots of flack about this over the years, but I can't change my skiddish nature around animals- especially dogs. But Miles LOVES them. So I am trying so hard to overcome my fears so I don't pass them along to him! Our friends Sam and Hollie have a little dog, Tallulah, who joined us at Jared's soccer game last night. Miles had so much fun watching her. He did good, too, by not pulling her hair! I wish now I had gotten a picture of him and Tallulah! Here's a pic of Miles at Daddy's soccer game and a pic of Jared with his team. I tried to get Miles in the foreground, with the team in the back, but he's just too quick!

We are going on a little trip this week! Tomorrow afternoon we are headed to Canton to spend the night with Mamawcharlotte and go to the famous Canton Flea Market on Thursday where I'm sure we will see other family members and different friends from over the years! I plan on getting most of my Christmas shopping done while there, too! I did some this past weekend at Mistletoe Market at the agricenter in Memphis. (And of course found a precious Christmas outfit for Mr. Miles! I'm sure you'll see it on a Christmas card!) Mom and Dad are headed to Hattiesburg sometime Thursday to see Clif and go to a concert with him of a famous classical guitarist whose name has left me at the moment! And of course Miles can't be so close to Uncle Clif and him not drive over to see him! So we'll see Clif on Friday! Jared is looking forward to the two (full) nights of sleep, seeing as Miles has woken up every morning at 4:00 for the past 2 weeks! And around here, that's just a little too early! Miles is cutting another couple teeth I believe. He's also taking a couple steps at a time- but of course, only when HE wants to take those steps! There's no coercing him when he gets noodle legs! It's really funny and he gets so tickled at himself! I think we have a little clown in the making! He is starting to "dance" a little bit to the music and any kind of sing-song I sing (I was a cheerleader, what can I say). We're hoping he doesn't get Jared's mad dance skills (did you catch the sarcasm?), but I guess only time can tell! Well we've got to make a run to Sams for formula and then back home to pack for the short trip- although by the trunk of the car, I'm sure it will look like we're leaving for a month!

pictures of miles!

2008-09-26T09:49:00.000-07:00

This is my most favorite recent picture of Miles! It shows off all his teeth...well now he's got a couple more, but all of them at the time! This is our silly little boy! We read a book this morning that had a mischevious little fox in it...I asked Miles if he was going to be mischevious! His daddy would say no, because he is too loud; but I think he'll learn to be quiet when he needs to be!

This was a sad day...at LeBonheur getting fluids because he was dehydrated. BEYOND pitiful! (Labor Day)

After I let him try to feed himself...what was I thinking??

This is an outfit that Mamawcharlotte (my dad's mother) made for my cousin Justin, then his little brother Wesley, to wear 26 years ago! I'd say it's held up pretty well! Doesn't he pose well?!

August Update!

2008-08-13T08:39:00.000-07:00

Update for Miles: He is EVERYWHERE and into EVERYTHING! Last Saturday, Jared and I were standing in the kitchen evaluating his painting job (I mean, 3 feet away, for less than a minute), and it got very quiet in the dining room/Miles' playroom. He has been checking the stairs out, but hadn't figured out how to get around to the front of them. Well, he figured it out! He took off- and by the time Jared got to him, he was on the eighth stair up! AH! So this "feat" prompted a trip to Target (the nice new one in Olive Branch!) to buy a gate. Well I am not entirely pleased with this gate because it doesn't fit our stairs very well. But it is keeping him off of them for the time being! Those stinkin' gates are soo expensive! Who would have thought?! But I guess the baby business people are getting theirs! I think "they" know "they" can charge whatever "they" want because "they" know new moms are going to buy anything "they" say is necessary. What a business...kinda like the wedding business?! I just wish I could have made my millions with one of these "necessary" items! =) Well, I feel a little bit like I'm making my own way and sticking it to the man...I've been trying my hand at making my own baby food for Miles after hearing a friend, Jessica Haines, talk about how much money she is saving doing this! We'll see how long this streak lasts!

He is cutting a top tooth now. He's starting to stand for a second or so on his own, but once he realizes that's what he's doing, he plops down! We've got all types of bumps and bruises, which is so hard for me to handle, but I've been told they just get worse! Ah! He loves to walk around with the help of someone- he'd rather do that sometimes than crawl! Good for him, bad for lower back. He already loves to read. (And I am convinced that he is reading already!) I'll find him in his room pulling books off the shelf, or sitting in our room with a book. His favorites right now are "10 Little Lady Bugs" and "Goodnight Moon". Hopefully this is the beginning of a lifelong desire to read and learn?! Well, at least when he's in those pre-teen years and refusing to do his summer reading, I can show him pictures of him as a 9 month old reading on his own, with no pressure from mom and dad!

Update for LG: I've got a job at Horn Lake Intermediate, where I taught third grade last year. I will be a TST coach, working with students in the TST program who have failed a grade or who need some extra intervention. I will work 1 day a week right now, but hopefully 2 days will open up, which would be ideal! I'm hosting Bunko here this weekend for ladies in our SS/BFG class, which is why Jared has been painting the kitchen. It is a lovely olive green color and he has done a fabulous job! We have a rather large kitchen and breakfast room, so it has taken him all week to get it finished. Mom's helping me get the window treatments done, so it is all coming together! I think I'm doing a pretty good job of being patient and taking my time picking things out for our home. It's hard, but I'm doing it!

Update for Jared: He is staying super busy at work. And after work. If he's not on the soccer field coaching, he's out in the yard working on landscaping. It has been so hot outside that he could only work an hour or so at a time! But it has cooled off, so hopefully he'll be able to wrap that little project up soon! Soccer season is underway. His team, the Olive Branch Rage, is U13, so he is coaching a few of the kids who moved up from the U11 team last year. They start their games up in a few weeks. I'll try to get some action pics of Jared coaching!

I'll post some pics later! Can't find the camera at the moment!

It's Been a Busy Few Weeks...I Think!

2008-07-20T16:09:00.000-07:00

It seems as though lots of things have happened since I last blogged, but not really...but here's a little update anyway!

Miles is cutting 2 teeth---it looks like such a small headline, what, with only a few words, but it's been a HUGE deal! If you have children you understand! So we have been a little fussy (and yes, I said we...), but when he isn't fussing over the teeth, he is workin' his tongue over them exploring this new feeling on his tongue! He is growing so fast! He is about 20 pounds now and he is crawling everywhere and pulling up on everything he can!

"Miles...let me snap this cute picture real quick before you start fussing!"

Miles crawling away from the camera! He moved a little quicker than I thought he would before I could take the pic!

Just a good pic of Jared and me before Steph's wedding! Jared thinks we look very Republican! He's so funny!

Dianne, Jared's mom, has been here for several days and we have so enjoyed having her here!Uncle Clif also came home for a visit after his guitar competition at East Carolina University. Miles is beginning to smell a little bit more...with all the spoiling going on around here!!! However, he is making friends at Sunday School! We had a good friend keeping nursery this morning who has a son who was born just a few weeks after Miles; she said that the boys were "wrestling" this morning during church! We'll have to get these two together more often! It's so neat to watch their personalities shine and mature!

Jared has also received a great honor at work! He has been selected to the Land Use Committee for the State Legislative Branch. Jared is the youngest planner (by profession) in Mississippi. This new appointment will require him to be in Jackson some while the State Senate is in session beginning in August. This was such an honor and a bit of a surprise! Yay Jared!

Congratulations are in order....I had two dear friends get married yesterday! Congratulations Blaire and Kevin Jett! They were married yesterday at 5:30 in Spartanburg, SC. I am so happy for you both! Have a blast in Aruba! Also, congrats to Stephanie and Adam Donyes! I didn't get to meet Adam, but I better the next time ya'll are in town! I love you both (couples) dearly and wish you all the best!

Kevin and Blaire Jett

Adam and Stephanie Donyes

After a fabulous weekend at the Tomato Festival

2008-06-30T07:16:00.001-07:00

Yes, that's right, we went to the 150th annual Tomato Festival in Crystal Springs, Mississippi, this weekend! It was everything I hoped it would be...hot, fried food, and booths set up with things I absolutely did not need down the main street of Crystal Springs! Clif's best friend from college is now the youth minister at the presbyterian church there, so Clif and Aaron were set to run in the 5K there that morning. So Mom, Dad, Miles, Jared, Molly (Clif's friend), and I woke up early Saturday morning and drove from Madison to Crystal Springs to join Clif and Aaron and my cousin Ashley at the Tomato Festival. Miles did really well...until about noon. It was nap time and eating time. (I wouldn't let him have any of my chicken on a stick!) So Jared and Miles went back to the church and took a nap in the nursery (yes, both of them) while Mom and I continued to look and wait for things to be monogrammed!

I was definitely reminded of the Mullet Festival that my roommates and I attended in the fall of 2003...wow that sounds so long ago! We were on our way to the beach for fall break and saw the sign for the Mullet Festival...so of course we had to attend. Now, mind you, a mullet is a type of fish. But of course there were mullets for miles! We bought t-shirts and had a great time! I love looking back at pictures from that weekend! Oh, the fun times Patton 4 had!

This was definitely a classic summertime weekend. We visited family all over the Jackson area. Grandmama (Great Mama to Miles) in Madison, Clif came up from Hattiesburg, Mamawcharlotte, Pop, and lots of aunts, uncles, and cousins! From grilling shish kabobs and hamburgers, to eating watermelon in the house my grandfather was raised in- it was definitely the type of weekend I remember from growing up and visiting family in Canton!

We came home a day early, however, so Miles could get back on his little schedule! He slept okay the first couple nights, but as the weekend went on, he got more and more out of sorts! But it was definitely a fabulous weekend. I so look forward to more of those as he gets older and we have more children to share our heritage with!

Pictures from the weekend:

Miles with Granddaddy, Mom's dad.
Miles, me, and Pop, Dad's dad.
Miles and Uncle Clif at the Tomato Festival.
Miles and Jared sacked out at First Presbyterian, Crystal Springs, MS.
Oh yeah, Miles took his first dip in the pool at the hotel where my parents were staying!

He loved it!

An explanation of the music you hear...

2008-06-30T07:06:00.001-07:00

So I was looking at friends blogs this morning after I put Miles down for a nap and wanted music on my blog like they had! So after sitting here trying to figure out what songs I should add, let me explain my choices.

"Back in Black", ACDC- Jared's "go to" song. Anytime there is an awkward pause or he just needs a little attention, Jared busts out with his air guitar and his rendition of "Back in Black"

"Cello Suite" Bach/Yo Yo Ma- Clif played this beautiful song at my wedding! It's also on a dog food commercial... =)

"Fly Me to the Moon", Frank Sinatra- I have loved listening to "Siriusly Sinatra" on my Sirius radio since we got the Edge...channel 75

"What a Wonderful World", Louis Armstrong- just a favorite!

"Summertime", Miles Davis- I just love listening to Miles Davis and what's more appropriate than his song "Summertime"?

and finally...(for now)

"Last Name", Carrie Underwood- I just thought this would be a fun song to add!! Promise...no other reason behind it! I love Carrie Underwood...I'm definitely a country-music-listening gal!

Summer is here!

2008-05-27T08:49:00.001-07:00

This is Miles in his exersaucer on the kitchen table while Meme is cleaning the floors.

I came home from my last day of school and here he was with this sign

"School's Out! You're all mine now! Yea!"

Well today is OFFICIALLY my first day of summer vacation! Memorial Day doesn't count since it's a holiday I would have had off anyway! So Miles and I celebrated by climbing back in bed after breakfast for a nap while Jared got ready to go to work! I think he was jealous! We celebrated yesterday by visiting with Aunt Shannon, Uncle Ben, and Anna Lin. It was good to see them and for them to see Miles and how big he is getting! And, of course, Aunt Shannon had another sweet outfit for Miles! (He's wearing the Seahorse outfit today!) We had friends over last night for BBQ- Sam and Hollie Pennington. We also were able to take all of our visitors to our new house! Yes- I said new house! We close on Thursday and move in this weekend! I'll be sure to post pictures of the move next week! We are so looking forward to being in our new home and all of the memories we will make in this home! It is one we plan to stay in forever! I think Miles, Meme, and Jimbo will be the ones who take this move the hardest! We have really enjoyed our time here with Mom and Dad and have been so blessed to have them around during these first 7 months of Miles' life. Eating breakfast with Jimbo, playing chase with Meme, dancing on the piano...I told Mom this morning that she will have to come over and visit in the mornings- PJs and all! God is so good and He knew what He was doing when he blessed me with parents like mine. Miles has something his future brothers and sisters (hopefully) will never have in having this bond with my parents!

Miles playing in the floor today.

We'll let you all know when the Darby household is accepting visitors! Give us a few weeks to unload and then the doors will be open! Please come visit us! Better yet, what are you doing Friday and Saturday?? Bring a truck!

I can't belive it's May already!

2008-05-06T15:06:00.000-07:00

As I sat in my faculty meeting after school, I came to the realization that today is MAY 6...it is May...the time of year when we receive end of the year check-out lists, book fine collection lists, report cards, etc...and my classroom still looks like it's February! Now I am excited about this time of the year...seeing as I only have a few more days until I can be at home with precious Miles...but I have so much to do over the next couple days! Ah! And here I sit- updating my blog... =)

Miles is just growing everytime we blink! He is six months old now. We have his six month pictures next week. He is a little wobbly, but sitting up. He loves being outside and feeling the wind on his face. He is talking a mile a minute...baby talk of course. He still hasn't spoken those sweet words "ma ma" but he knows his "da da" sounds pretty well! And, boy, does he love his "da da"!

We've had lots of visitors over the past several weeks. Uncle Clif came home a few weeks ago, then Great Mama (my grandmama Terry) came to see Miles. She hasn't seen him since Christmas. Then Miss Tori and Mr. Lee came to see and meet Miles! I was so glad they came over! Then last week DiDi and Papaw Steve were in town and Miles got the special treat of staying with DiDi all week instead of going to Ms. Amanda's! They had a great time together and Miles got acquainted with his "Aunt Katie" (Papaw and DiDi's dog).

Uncle Clif comes back home this week after his final exams. He is staying in Hattiesburg for the summer to work with the youth at his church and keep his fingers strumming that guitar! Oh, but he will be back...to help us move...hopefully soon! =) We'll keep you updated on that part of our lives...

So that's all for now! I'm sure I will log back in in a few weeks once school is out! May 23! Yay!

So far this month...

2008-04-08T15:26:00.000-07:00

So today I took a day off work to stay home with sweet Miles- he has had a cold, so we didn't want to take him to the babysitter's house. He has been absolutely pitiful! I think he's feeling a little better now- he had a blast in his jumper earlier, but is napping now. It was so wonderful to be at home with him today- just a little taste of life to come once school is out and I get to stay home with him! 33 school days left!

We definitely enjoyed NOT paying that house note this month! It killed us each month the past year paying for something we weren't using! We plan to stay here with mom and dad until the school year is finished. We are having fun looking for that great deal that is to be had out there with this market!

I had such a fun reunion with the girls of Patton 4 this weekend (r.i.p. P4). I had not been to Union yet since the tornado. There were roads closed and campus security there to tell us where NOT to drive, of course! It was amazing to see how quickly Union's leadership has worked to get things back to normal! I can't wait to return to see the finished product and to hear where the new "patton 4" will be!

Well, little bit is awake from his afternoon nap! Time to go!

*The picture is from cousin Kris and Melissa's wedding at Old Waverly a couple weeks ago!

We'll try this out!

2008-03-26T20:21:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm not really good at keeping up with things like this, but I want to give it a try! I just wanted a way to keep friends and family who aren't on Facebook =) a way to keep up with us, but mostly sweet baby Miles! He's just growing bigger and bigger each day and it has been such a joy to watch him develop different skills, even at such a young age! These past 5 months have FLOWN by, and I know time won't stand still in the future...I look forward to every minute of it though!

Jared is keeping busy with work and his competitive soccer team, the Olive Branch Rage. He and his best friend from high school, Chris, are coaching an under 12 team. I'm wrapping up my 3rd year teaching. I'm at Horn Lake Intermediate teaching 3rd grade. I am looking forward to staying home with Miles this next year, though! I'll post pictures of him as soon as Jared brings our computer home from work!

Like I said...bear with me on keeping this updated!