D&J Dowty Jr

Newest Hobby

2010-11-21T16:53:00.000-08:00

I had to throw this one in first; my only decorating for Thanksgiving I plan to do (plans could change). Actually I was trying to clear off the table, and I needed a place for the 3 pumpkins Daryl rescued from someone's trash. Also a good excuse to clean off the China cabinet that happens to accrue a lot of stuff. The leaf behind the middle pumpkin blew into the yard a couple of weeks ago when the "boys" were outside. They had fun catching it. It didn't come from any tree in our yard.

I decided it was time to introduce Little Daryl to his birthday present (from last year) from Aunt Leandra--just in time for his 3rd birthday. I felt he was finally ready for it. We spent most of Friday morning playing with his "play dough." The only problem, he likes someone to play with him, and it can be frustrating when I have lots to do. It will be a non-TV alternative for cold winter days. Thanks Aunt Leandra!

Posing for the camera.

Random shots

2010-11-21T16:44:00.000-08:00

An unlisted use for the wok: a TV seat for a toddler.

Trying on Daddy's shirt, and asking for the camera.

Daddy was having fun with a penny

Mowing the lawn

Vegging out with a coke in Uncle Joe's chair.

Night on the Town

2010-11-21T16:34:00.001-08:00

Enjoying ice cream at our city's "night on the town" this past summer. Actually, Daddy had to eat Daryl's ice cream. He was more interested in the chips.

In the jumping bed. The only reason he was interested was because it was a tiger. He mostly sat down and let the others bounce him.

Riding on the "trackless train" with Daddy.

The highlight of his evening; he didn't want to get out.

Are you happy now, Granny? Sorry to keep you so long waiting.

My Little Artist

2010-08-26T03:51:00.000-07:00

A few days ago, I saw Little Daryl drawing on his drawing board. Later when I was cleaning up, I found this on it:

he even drew smiley faces an a couple of the balloons ("a-noons").

It's the thought that counts

2010-07-20T03:31:00.000-07:00

One morning, we were planning to run some errands. I was outside hanging up laundry, when my boys came to the back porch. Daddy had dressed Daryl in the outfit pictured below.

I, of course had to change it, despite Daddy's protests. It may be cute, but people would blame me, and I'm sure enough people question my intelligence. Besides, the shorts were "pjs." We did see one of my former college profs while out, and Daryl complained about how she missed seeing him in his "cute outfit."

Father's Day Weekend

2010-07-10T12:11:00.000-07:00

We spent Father's day weekend at Daryl's parents house to see one of Daryl's brothers and family who were visiting. Daryl's dad is showing off a father's day gift (a shirt to match his hat).

Daryl III, Jonathan, Jacob, and Benjamin watering Granny's garden with water guns.

Little Daryl, bonding with Grandpa.

Little Daryl lounging with cousin Rachel, and Uncle Jonathan.

Uncle Jeremiah using his wet mane to defend himself against the water guns.

Aunt Leandra' Graduation

2010-06-16T12:36:00.000-07:00

Daryl, the elder's sister (Leandra) graduated from high school recently. Showing off the hard earned diploma with niece Camryn.

Daryl, the aged, Raymond, Janet, Rodger, and Stephen at the reception.

We celebrated at a nearby Ci Ci's pizza. Leandra made her dress, and the one her Mum is wearing.

Daryl, the younger, enjoying Uncle Stephen and a high bouncer ball.

Janet, Leandra, Camryn, Jeremiah, and Kevin coming from Ci Ci's.

Mega Blocks Castle

2010-06-16T12:22:00.000-07:00

We found these castle blocks to go with our mega-blocks collection at a thrift store recently.

We built the wall when Daryl, the younger was napping.

It appears he liked it.

"Peek-a-boo"

Garfield is, another thrift store find. He also has a stuffed lion, and he thinks both of them "roar." Recently, I was reading the Sunday comics, and he got on my lap, and pointed to the paper "roaring"; he was pointing to Garfield.

Do I want to be a cook or a photographer?

2010-06-16T12:05:00.001-07:00

Daryl, the elder had cooked some fish sticks for Daryl, the younger for supper. Daryl, the younger wanted to try his hand at, cooking cheerios (without the stove on).

Daryl, the younger finally figured out how to take a picture with our camera. He doesn't have the focus part down yet, and he turns the camera the wrong way (taking pictures of himself), but we had a good laugh over the shots he got. He even pushed the video button a couple of times.

My favorite one.

Making friends

2010-05-09T20:59:00.001-07:00

Enjoying Grandma's cell phone

Playing "ball" with Uncle Joel. As we were trying to leave, my brothers were tossing the football around. Of course, my boy wanted to be part of it. He kept running back and forth, following the ball saying "ball, ball..."

Aunt Sarah sharing a bag of chips with Daryl, the younger, as Daryl, the elder looks on. " They way to reach a man's heart is through his stomach" is so true for my boy.

The moral of this post, if you want to be friends with my boy (for a short while), it helps to have food, a ball, or a cell phone handy.

Cousins

2010-05-09T20:43:00.000-07:00

Daryl and cousin Abby Grace. They really enjoyed playing with each other.

We went to my parents house last weekend for Mother's day. During that visit, we met my newest nephew, Jason ("JJ"). It was interesting trying to get a 3 month old, 2yr old, and 3 yr old presentable for a picture at the same time.

Abby and JJ look OK; now to get Daryl to cooperate...

The proud daddy (my brother, Jason) watching over his son.

2010-04-21T22:02:00.000-07:00

Watching TV in his chair

He was eating his snack one day served on a cutting board. He discovered another use for the cutting board.

Daryl found this toy Little Daryl is pushing recently; Little Daryl spent the whole day pushing it around the yard. Later when Daryl was mowing the lawn, he followed Daddy all over the yard with it, "helping him."

Playing with Daddy

2010-04-21T21:50:00.000-07:00

Little Daryl's latest favorite game is playing "tent" with Daddy. This consists of hiding under the covers sometimes for long periods of time, peeking out every once in a while. He is getting better about getting his whole body under the covers. As soon as Daddy wakes up, he drags Daddy to our bedroom to play "tent" while I fix his meal.

"Peek-a-boo!"

Daddy hiding under the covers

Enjoying Chocolate

2010-04-21T21:33:00.000-07:00

Enjoying his one-pound solid bunny for Easter. We gave him the whole thing to see what he would do with it. He started gnawing on the feet, then (after my suggestion) moved to the ears; he finally started working on the rear end. The chocolate started melting on his hands, so I chopped it into pieces for him. It took him 4 days to finish it. We hid our bunnies in paper bags, so he wouldn't see ours and want them too.

Sharing a Cadbury bar with Daddy

Cadbury eggs

Battle Scars

2010-03-02T12:34:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago, as I was preparing supper, I had a couple of cans stacked on the counter. Daryl walked over and pulled down the bottom can. Of course, the top can fell off and hit him on the bridge of his nose. The scar is just about healed. It would have healed much quicker if he wouldn't have kept picking on the scab.

I love that smile of his.

Mommy also got a "boo-boo" the previous evening. I was getting little one ready for bed, and was giving him his saline nose drops. He happened to be holding a plastic toy with a pointy edge. He reacted to the drops by flailing his arms, and the toy jabbed my cheek. Although it was painful, I didn't realize it scratched me until I felt the scab a couple of hours later. I now check his hands before administering the drops. My scab is long gone, because I didn't pick the scab (that much).

The wounded warriors

Snow 2010!

2010-02-20T20:46:00.001-08:00

Our backyard at 10:30 Saturday, 2/13/10. This was the second snowfall we got this year. The first one was 2 weeks before. I got some pictures of that one, but lost them before I could download them to the computer. The roads were more icy on the first one. Daryl had to stay over 6 hrs at work till his replacement arrived, then the car stalled. I had to pick him up and call AAA to have the car towed. I had another reminder of how much more difficult it is to leave the house when one has a little one. Everything turned out OK, though I felt like crying at first. We got the car to the shop before it closed. I was exhausted when it was all over. It was nice to have a warm home to come to. One of my brothers suggested Christmas be celebrated in Jan. or Feb, then we would have a white Christmas. It certainly was beautiful!

Our front yard. Daryl had to work the night before, but the roads weren't icy, so he made it home safely.

Daryl's toys

Daryl walking in Mommy's footsteps. He wasn't too crazy about the snow. He wanted me to carry him around the yard. I decided it would be safer for us both if we went inside. Maybe next year he will enjoy it enough to play in it. He did enjoy looking at it out the window. He kept on saying "wooowwww."

I managed to make a little snowman (6in tall).

All my children

2010-02-20T20:35:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday, I came home from a church baby shower to find this on our bed. Of course if Little Daryl were awake, the cats wouldn't be this close to him. I chose this pose so the camera flash wouldn't wake him up.

Chef wanna-be?

2010-02-11T20:33:00.000-08:00

Daryl has discovered how to open the microwave. I caught him recently lining up his cars in it. He likes to line up his toys in neat rows. I still have to remind him to pick up his toys, though. He is particular about certain things, especially routine stuff. I'm sure when I incorporate picking up toys into his routine, he will more readily comply. We will need to diligently watch him so he doesn't end up trying to cook the cars. So far he only pushes one button.

I think the camera flash makes him blink. It seems in most of the recent pictures I have of him, he is blinking.

Peanut butter: his favorite food (besides sweets). He was "washing the dishes," but I wasn't quick enough with the camera to get that shot.

Christmas, 2009

2010-01-13T20:46:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas picture taken in our church library.

On Christmas morning, wearing his flannel pjs and spiderman socks.

We were able to decorate the living room Christmas morning before little Daryl woke up. He enjoyed the lights and the tree.

His favorite gift; from Uncle Kevin. It is a truck carrying case that holds 32+ matchbox size cars. He sometimes tries to ride it. He is usually carrying at least one of the cars around. Thanks, Kevin.

Opening a Christmas gift while holding a car from Uncle Kevin.

Second Birthday!

2009-12-30T19:52:00.000-08:00

The cake!

Being sung "Happy Birthday" to; the expression is so adorable!

Aunt Leandra trying out the new sippycup. (just pretending)

Enjoying cookies with Daddy!

Our little one turned 2 on December 12! He now weighs 29 lbs, and is 36.25 inches tall. He seems to be very outgoing, but loves to act shy when someone speaks to him. He waves at people going by , saying "bye bye." It is funny watching him mimic things he sees us do (the good and funny stuff, that is). He loves to explore the yard. He used to love pushing around anything on wheels; he has now learned to ride on his tricycles. The next step is pedaling (when he can reach them). He enjoys watching Veggie Tales, helping mommy wash dishes, chasing the cats, eating sweets, playing with his cars, building buildings with his mega blocks, and pretending to drive. Every time we get him out of his car seat, he wants to sit in the drivers seat and "drive." He enjoys playing with the canes and walkers of a couple of people at church. We have to watch him with the cane, as he loves to swing it in the air. He does well during the meetings at church, usually napping during one of the meetings. We love our precious boy, and enjoy watching him grow. Although things are getting scarier in the world, it is comforting to know God is in control and is watching over us even when we are not aware of it. We look forward to seeing what God has planned for him.

Bonding with uncles

2009-12-27T19:51:00.001-08:00

While visiting Daryl's family during Thanksgiving, Little Daryl bacame attached to Uncle Stephen (or at least his cell phone).

Being assisted by Uncle John (mom's brother) opening Christmas presents.

Jamming with Uncle Jeremy and Uncle Joe (two more of Mommy's brothers) on our keyboard.

Dowty Grandparents Visit

2009-11-14T13:05:00.001-08:00

Daryl's dad brought a sharper saw than we have, and we finished cutting down a tree in our front yard. Little Daryl is helping carry the branches to the "curb" for pick-up.

Daryl Jr sawing as Daryl Sr looks on.

Granny keeping Little Daryl occupied.

Little Daryl was fascinated with the ladder.

Oops, we left little Daryl's cap outside; Daddy brought it in for us.

23 months-candid shots

2009-11-14T12:54:00.000-08:00

Using a scrub brush to brush his hair

I love the face he is making; I will definitely be showing this one to him when he is older.

Having some fun with books, a boy and a camera

Camping!

2009-10-14T20:39:00.000-07:00

We went camping with three other families from church. This is our campsite.

That's lake Hartwell behind us.

Hanging out at the Vieau's site. We ended eating all our meals at their site.

Stephanie had the cheese curls all to herself for a few moments.

Daryl bonding with the Vieau's dog, Obadiah. He was scared of "Obbi" at first (especially his barking), but got used to him by the end of the weekend.

An unwelcome visitor

2009-10-14T20:27:00.000-07:00

As we were leaving to run some errands, I spotted this snake on our front porch. The power company cut down some trees down on the property behind us, and we think this snake migrated to our front yard. Daryl did some research, and it appears to be a baby rattlesnake. Kind of scary, especially with a little one running around. We haven't seen any more of it, and are praying it stays that way.

You can see Little Daryl's and my reflection in the storm door.

Trying new things

2009-10-14T11:05:00.000-07:00

Wearing my socks

I was putting little Daryl's clothes away when he left the room. I went to check on him and found him laying on our bed singing to himself. He noticed me before I could snap the picture.Playing with a toy.

Like the cats, he too likes to sit in boxes.

He has on several occasions managed to get himself caught in the chair. Of course, he can't get out by himself.

Walking in Daddy's shoes

2009-08-27T19:36:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday I was changing our bedsheets when I saw Little Daryl carrying "Daddy's" shoes. I thought he was taking them to Daddy so Daddy could wear them (he likes to be "helpful"). I was called into the hallway a short time later and he had stepped into Daddy's shoes and was walking around. He was walking in my dad's shoes the day before when we visited them, but I had forgotten the camera. In the picture above, he is either wanting the camera or to be picked up.

Watching TV while waiting for lunch to be ready. (I distracted him by taking his picture)

He loves to blow bubbles, though right now he holds the wand too far away from his mouth to get many bubbles.

Last week I visited a college friend who has a boy Daryl's age. I tried to get a picture of them together, but wasn't able to. The older sisters were putting on a play (which never was really performed) of Peter and the Wolf. We had fun.

Our Little Monkey

2009-08-11T19:37:00.000-07:00

Our little one has discovered he can move chairs, stepladders, stools, etc... to aid him in reaching things that used to be out of his reach. Fortunately, he hasn't mastered opening the microwave...yet.

We have these little word magnets on our freezer that I tediously moved to the upper half after finding one in Daryl's mouth several months ago. A few weeks ago, he discovered he could reach the bottom few by standing on his "tippie toes." Now, with the help of his little stool, he can reach even more of them. Thankfully, he isn't as quick to put things in his mouth, and he has plenty of other stuff to get into.

Enjoying some ice cream. The first time he drank the melted part instead of spooning it onto his tray. I thought the mustache was cute.

Another use for Daddy's ice chest

We got a couple of watermelons from our watermelon farmer friends. Daryl loves feeling the outside, but thinks the fruit is too wet and sticky.

Fun in the pool

2009-07-10T14:03:00.001-07:00

I finally pulled out the pool we got for little Daryl. It took him several minutes to get adjusted to the cool water and sit down in it.

He had fun filling up and emptying (and sometimes drinking from) an old syrup bottle.

Our Precious Little Monkey

2009-07-02T19:48:00.000-07:00

At the Fall's Park (Downtown Greenville) with Mommy and Grandma Stull

Helping Daddy on the computer

He now climbs on the chairs. I just have to keep them away from the table.

He discovered he could make the corner cabinet a fun playhouse. He hasn't gotten in there too much, because I am usually in the way at the kitchen sink.

He really enjoyed his bowl of cookies & cream ice cream. He also enjoyed the bath that followed.

Visit to the "Thomas Grandparents' " house

2009-06-05T13:49:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, we visited the house of a couple from church who we adopted as grandparents. We sit in front of them in church, and little Daryl keeps them amused and alert. They needed someone tall to some painting for them. Here the "men" are inspecting the yard

Little Daryl always gets excited when he sees me with the camera.

We brought along one of his toys to push around the yard, but he was more interested in their hose holder.

Daryl painting the trimming on their shed.

On the way home; posing for yet another picture.

Uncle Joe's graduation

2009-05-20T12:05:00.000-07:00

My youngest brother, Joseph graduated from Bob Jones Academy on Thursday, May 7.

Joe and his friend Christina

My brother, John, being silly

With Uncle Jeremy

My boy loves to get his picture taken.

Strawbery Picking

2009-05-20T11:44:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, we visited our "watermelon farmer" friends, and picked some strawberries at their place. We didn't get any pictures of the actual picking. Their youngest daughter, Hadassah is chilling out after picking some berries. We went home with 6 quarts.

Little Daryl and Hadassah

The oldest 2, Kelilah and Charlie finishing off the cheesecake we had for dessert after lunch.

Daryl and Danny (their youngest) planning their escape.

Daryl and "Wilson"

Aunt Leandra's visit

2009-04-11T09:37:00.001-07:00

Daryl's sister, Leandra came to visit us for 10 days. Little Daryl enjoyed having a companion who wasn't distracted with work around the house; I enjoyed being able to do work without a body underfoot begging to be held, wanting to open the cabinet I was working in front of, etc...

Enjoying a good book together. We made a chocolate cheesecake (from scratch) for Sunday fellowship dinner.

Leandra had the job of melting the chocolate. It was a messy job. The sad thing was, the chocolate was unsweetened, so finger licking was undesirable.

The finished product. It tasted good too!

2nd haircut

2009-04-05T15:17:00.001-07:00

We thought this one was cool of his reflection in the glass.

Little Daryl's hair was getting too long again. His bangs kept getting in his eyes. We didn't care to pay $13 to have his hair cut again, so we did it ourselves. It doesn't look too bad ( I think). He looks rather cute with the short bangs. He did put up quite a big fight, but settled down pretty quickly, once it was over.

Showing off his walking skills, which improve daily

Little Daryl dropped the comb through one of the slots in the deck. I had to get it out with a rake. (Daryl Jr. was too big, and Little Daryl was too young). Daryl got a couple of pictures of me surveying the territory under the deck (which I will not be posting). Fortunately, the memory on the camera was too full for him to photograph the actual execution of the task. It wasn't actually that bad, but I hope I don't have to do this on a regular basis.

Walking Daddy

2009-03-26T14:32:00.001-07:00

Our little one is finally beginning to take steps on his own. He has been pushing his high chair, stroller, and anything that has wheels or moves around for the last couple months. Last week,
he started using us as "walkers." On Monday, he started taking more than 2 steps. It is exciting to see him learn this skill. We know it will be harder to keep up with him, but he was beginning to get too heavy to carry all over the place.

15 Months already

2009-03-26T14:03:00.000-07:00

Tuesday was Little Daryl's 15 month checkup. He was 26 lbs, and 32.5 inches tall. We had purchased some Cadbury goodies on the way to his appointment. We gave him some of the candy pictured above on the way home to soothe him after his immunization (which he actually tolerated quite well). As you can see below, the candy was tolerated very well. We still have another package of this candy, and will bring it with us on a trip on 3/31.

He loves to get his picture taken.

Reaching for the camera.

Candid shots of Little Daryl

2009-03-11T14:18:00.000-07:00

After a snack of cheese puffs.

Modeling PJs from Uncle John and Aunt Sarah

Snow!

2009-03-04T09:02:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday, we arrived home from Columbia about 30 minutes before the snow started. By Monday morning, when it stopped, we had about 6 inches. This picture was taken Monday morning around 10am from the back porch. The backyard was about covered except for a few spots under our oak tree. The bare spots got bigger as the snow began falling off the trees. Praise God, Daryl made it to and from work safely, and we had a safe trip to Columbia on Tuesday. When Daryl went to work on Sunday at 10pm, the interstate had not been "plowed."

We ventured out around 2pm. By then, there were more bare spots. Little Daryl had more fun pushing his toy around the yard. I decided to wait until next year (when he is older and will enjoy the snow) to try to build a snowman.

Our front yard. Sorry about the weird angle, I was holding a squirming 14-month old at the time.

A bush in our backyard

I thought this ice cycle on the clothesline was cool (no pun intended).

More pictures later.

First Hair Cut

2009-01-27T13:22:00.000-08:00

We decided Little Daryl's hair was getting too long, but we didn't want to try to do it ourselves. We took him to a place nearby (but forgot to take the camera; we did get a lock of his hair for his scrapbook). He did pretty well, enjoying playing with a couple toys during the ordeal. The lady who cut his hair said most young children scream the whole time. He didn't start the fussing until she started working on the front, which she saved until last. Now it is hard to tell when I forget to comb his hair (which is most of the time). This is our Christmas picture; it was taken before the haircut.

Modeling his new look at Corrie's wedding

Just after the cut and a nap

Christmas with the Dowtys

2009-01-09T19:29:00.000-08:00

We traveled to Daryl's parents' house the day after Christmas, and spent the weekend.

Grandpa and Granny had lots of nice tempting "no-nos" under the tree.

Enjoying the train with Daddy and Aunt Leandra

Hanging out with Granny.

"Granny's helper"

Christmas with the Stulls

2009-01-08T13:15:00.000-08:00

We went to my parents on Christmas day. Everyone was present except for my brother James, and his wife, Abi.

Little Abby Grace (26 months) always enjoys the attention from her uncles and Aunts. Here, she is playing with Uncle John as Aunt Sarah looks on.

Little Daryl was intrigued with Abby's puzzle, while Abby checked out Daryl's work bench. As the saying goes: the grass is always greener... In case you are questioning my choice of clothing for my little one, it doesn't take much for him to get hot. With all those warm bodies in the room attached to the kitchen, it didn't take long for his cheeks to become rosy. Fortunately, I packed something cool for him to change into.

Bonding time for the cousins. Sitting next to Uncle Jason and Aunt Sarah (yes, there are 2 Aunt Sarah's). Jared (Abby's dad) is acting as referee

Friendly Boy

2008-12-16T10:50:00.000-08:00

I finally caught little Daryl waving on video. He doesn't do it all the time, just when he is in the mood to do it. He likes to wave at his reflection in the mirror, and at times, I have seen him wave at his shadow. It is hilarious.

Birthday video

2008-12-16T10:40:00.001-08:00

Here is a video of us singing Happy Birthday. It is a bit akward, because I am holding the camera and the cake.

More birthday pictures

2008-12-16T10:24:00.001-08:00

Enjoing some french bread from Granny (Dowty)

His winter hat from Stull grandparents

Aunt Leandra inherited her dad's old video camera; Daryl was fascinated with it.

First Birthday!

2008-12-16T10:09:00.001-08:00

We celebrated Little Daryl's birthday last Saturday. Daryl (Jr's) parents and sister came up Thursday afternoon for the weekend. My parents and youngest 2 brothers came over Saturday. We had spaghetti and mac & cheese. He got quite a few toy cars some of which he enjoys. Some of the others scare him right now, but I'm sure he will enjoy them when he gets older. He also got several blanket sleepers to last the winter and a winter cap. He enjoyed crawling around, being cute. He even had some deep discussions with Grandpa Stull (I'm sure they were deep for little Daryl).

Aunt Leandra decorated the cake. I forgot to buy a special candle, so we used a simple one.

Enjoying cake and ice cream with Daddy

Playing with Grandpa Stull's cane (my dad is recovering from knee replacement surgery)

Eleven months already...can you believe it?!

2008-11-13T10:48:00.001-08:00

Time does fly. I am having reminders of when Daryl was first born, because of the cold weather. There are a few differences though from last year. He is more mobile now, so I have to watch him like a hawk when the gas logs are on. He also likes to pull his socks off. When I take him outside so I can hang up laundry, I have to put shoes on him to keep the socks on. The shoes preoccupy him for a while, but he still manages in the end to pull a shoe off and, of course, the sock. His feet feel so cold, but it doesn't seem to bother him. I am open to any suggestions on keeping socks on (I draw the line at a straight jacket).

He has been crawling for about 1.5 months now, and has become quite an explorer. He also adds vacuuming and pointing out baby hazards as his specialties. He is becoming a hearty eater, but prefers what we are eating (he has discovered we eat tasty stuff). Now that he has 6 teeth, (2 on bottom, 4 on top) he is able to eat more of our food. He enjoys playing peek-a-boo. He actually holds his hands up to his face and peeks around them. He also enjoys playing with his farm animals, xylophone, and looking at his books. He likes to play with Daddy's books, but since the pages are too fragile, he gets them taken away from him (which he doesn't like). Mirrors, lights, and fans continue to fascinate him. I replaced the fan in his room with a space heater, and he still likes to watch it. He is getting gentler with the cats, but I still have to watch him when he is around them. His favorite buddy continues to be Daddy. He gets excited when Daddy comes into the room, and gets upset when Mommy takes him and he would rather be with Daddy. Daddy tosses him in the air, but sometimes stops long before Daryl is ready to stop. Daddy also sings silly songs he makes up (usually about how lucky we are he [Daddy] is around). He is getting better at sitting quietly (for a baby) in church. Last Sunday he lasted the entire first meeting (thanks to juice, toys and other people to play peek-a-boo with). He still has a bit of stranger anxiety, but it has improved once he started crawling. We are having another relapse in his sleeping schedule. Anytime there is a major change, it messes him up. The recent ones are the cold weather, and the time change. I am praying we get back on schedule soon. It is getting better, but has a way to go. As to talking, he says "da-da" and "ma-ma," but I think he is just chattering. Daryl likes to think he is calling "da-da;" I guess he is entitled to his opinion.

We are still working on the plans for his birthday party. Daryl (Jr)'s parents are coming up for the weekend, and we will have my parents over. I may invite more family, but I am waiting to see how he is doing socially by then. I don't want to make it too overwhelming for him (or me).

We are looking forward to his second Christmas. Last year was so close to his birth, it didn't really seem like Christmas. Things do change when one has children, but we wouldn't give him up for anything, not even for all the Cadbury chocolate in the world (you'd better agree with me, Daryl).

Election Day

2008-11-13T10:39:00.000-08:00

Although election day was a busy day, we made time to vote. Daryl waited patiently in line with me for 1.5 hours. I looked for a sticker that said " I waited in line while Mommy voted," but they didn't have any. I let him wear my sticker, and that got a lot of people's attention that day at Daddy's school. He looks a little drowsy, because it was a long day for him. Although I have mixed feelings about the results of the day, I rest assured that God is in control, and will work everything out according to His will.

Another exciting book sale

2008-11-07T07:16:00.000-08:00

These pictures are in the opposite order I wanted them, but can't seem to correct that without wasting too much time. This is one of my favorite pictures of Daryl (for the moment). He loves to get his picture taken, but I have learned if I don't sit him in a chair, he will crawl up to me and try to grab the camera from me.

Members get their hands stamped in order to let them into the book sale.

Waiting in line. We got there at 11:45 for the 3pm sale. It was chilly and rainy. Little Daryl and I spent most of the time in the car. We were about 10th in line. Daryl met a few other people who also have a passion for theology books (one attends CIU with Daryl and is in his class). Two of the theology people are also married to nurses.

Daryl considers this day as important as (if not more than) Christmas. It takes us about an hour to spend about $100. The spring sale (it is a semi-annual sale) tends to have a better selection. Some of the books become Christmas gifts, some get sold on e-bay, and most are added to our growing library.

Derek's wedding

2008-10-17T12:16:00.001-07:00

The happy couple: Derek and Helen Dowty
My two favorite men; waiting for the wedding to start.
Jeremiah and Kevin (2 of Daryl's brothers)
Jonathan and Benjamin (another brother and nephew)
We are trying to get a cousins' picture, but little Daryl isn't too happy about it.

Camping trip and Derek's wedding

2008-10-17T11:57:00.001-07:00

One of Daryl's brothers got married last weekend in TN. We had our first camping adventure. It wasn't that bad, except that little Daryl was just recovering from a fever and wasn't back to his normal self yet. We set up our tent about 6 feet from a lake (actually it was a cove). The weather was nice for camping, and the leaves were beautiful. Little Daryl slept pretty well at night in his baby Moses basket. He enjoyed the cool nights as he is warm natured. In these pictures, we are just about to leave for the wedding. I am wearing sneakers and have my dress tied up so my good shoes and dress doesn't get muddy.
We had a few "neighbours," but they didn't bother us. I did hear them a little at night when I was up with the baby, but they weren't loud enough to wake us up when we were asleep (though nothing wakes up Daryl when he is asleep).

Making new friends

2008-10-17T11:37:00.000-07:00

A couple of Sundays ago, we had lunch with our watermelon farmer friends from church. In August, they had Danny (pictured above on Daryl's lap with little Daryl). We anticipate Danny and Daryl will become good friends when they get older.
We got a few watermelons from them.

Our cute little boy

2008-09-29T19:08:00.001-07:00

The Latest Arrival

2008-08-30T06:19:00.000-07:00

Daryl's first tooth finally made its appearance last Wednesday. We are now entering the "teething marathon." He finally gets to brush his teeth. He loves to watch us brush our teeth; now he can join in.

A Beautiful Mess

2008-08-01T17:10:00.000-07:00

We picked up a pack of Oreo Cookies at the store yesterday. Little Daryl enjoyed his first taste of his daddy's favorite cookie. He was enjoying it so much, his drool almost looked like chocolate syrup.

Bless our home

2008-07-30T07:12:00.001-07:00

Daryl found this at a local thrift store.

Candid shots

2008-07-12T15:24:00.000-07:00

Enjoying some ice cream
With Daddy; his "best buddy"
He has always been fascinated with lights and ceiling fans
Taking a nap in the car

Cute Cousins

2008-07-11T06:47:00.000-07:00

With Uncle Jared and Cousin Abby Grace.

Last Saturday, we got together with my family. Little Daryl was overwhelmed with everyone wanting to hold him. We were able to get him to happily visit a few people; he was content if he was swung around, or kept moving in any way.

Aunt Leandra's Visit

2008-07-02T17:19:00.000-07:00

Daryl's sister visited us last week. We visited Carl Sandberg's home on the first day, but I forgot to pack the camera. Daryl stamped Little Daryl's arm with the passport stamp to prove we were there.
On Sunday after church, we visited a dam near Anderson on the Savannah River (forgot the name).
At the Falls Park on the Reedy River in downtown Greenville.
Of course a visit to Greenville is not complete without a visit to Krispy Kreme. More pictures to follow.

Pet Me, Pleeeease

2008-06-18T17:24:00.000-07:00

This has become a common sight for the last few months. Dozer is so desperate to be petted, he "sprawls" out in the middle of the room on the floor every time he hears someone coming. Maybe someone will pet him if he is ready. He doesn't seem to understand (or care) that I am not able to bend over when I am holding the baby. When Daryl is old enough to treat them gently, I'm sure they will enjoy him. Right now, he tends to pull their hair or "whacks" them when they let him get close enough. Fortunately, they can run away for protection. When he is more mobile, we will put up a gate in the den; this will keep baby away from the food and litter box; also they will have a safe place to hide from the little "temporary terror."

The youngest one present

2008-06-07T15:17:00.000-07:00

We went to the annual meeting for our electric co-op group this morning. They were giving away a free slow cooker (3 qt.) to each member present. They also gave away other appliances by drawing names. We won a prize we didn't think we would win. They asked for the youngest person present (post-natal); we were sure someone was there younger than Daryl. They asked for under 1 year, then under 6 months. We were the only ones standing (he is 5 days short of 6 months). The prize: $10. We will put it in his savings account.

Daryl's latest toy

2008-05-20T13:44:00.000-07:00

Daryl bought this bookshelf unit from his co-worker yesterday. It is made from solid oak and has 1/4 inch glass doors. We will buy another one from him as soon as he empties it. We still have a large stack of books waiting for shelves to hold them (after filling up this book case). It looks really nice in our living room.

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-14T13:13:00.000-07:00

This is one of our rose bushes planted by the previous owners of our house. We also have red roses growing on the side of the house next to some fuscia colored flowers (they smell better than the roses though they are not as pretty).

Daryl's first book sale

2008-05-02T10:28:00.000-07:00

A few years ago, we began attending the semi-annual book sale through the Friends of the Library. We usually get there 3.5 hours before the doors open. I put sunscreen on Daryl, but forgot to put something on his head. The little sun he got didn't seem to cause too much irritation. I hope I learned my lesson before the weather gets warmer. We found quite a few good books this time. Daryl handled it well in the carrier. A couple of times, I was behind someone, and Daryl made a sound; it was funny watching them "jump" in surprise. He was fast asleep when we got home, and I tried to take a picture of him then, but was having trouble getting the camera to work; I didn't have time to mess with it.

For those of you in the Greenville area, there was an advertisement for the book sale on page 2D of the Greenville news last Friday (4/25). Daryl is pictured third person on the left. I don't think it would show up if I scanned and posted it.

Our Honor Student

2008-04-20T18:22:00.000-07:00

The Men in my house

Last Monday was Daryl's 4 month check-up. He was 18 lbs, 6.4oz (90th percentile) and 25.75 in long (85th percentile). His head circumference was 95 th percentile. At his last checkup (2 months) he was 75th percentile in his height. Daryl (Jr) told him he didn't want another "c" in any of his measurements. He was a bit more fussy after his immunizations than last time, but was back to his normal cheery self in 2 days. He moved into his own room a few weeks ago, and is sleeping well. It is nice to be able to move around in our bedroom without the fear of waking him up. He also naps much better during the day now that he has a quiet spot for napping. His babbling is so precious, and it is fun to see him get excited when he sees us. To sum it up, we're really enjoying him; we've decided to keep him.

Enjoying some gifts

2008-03-25T10:22:00.000-07:00

This outfit is from John and Paula Bryan; a couple who housed me my last 2 years of nursing school.
Modeling our "Mom and Tot socks" from Daryl's brother, Derek

A cute bunny we found while on our "egg hunt."

The annual Cadbury egg hunt

2008-03-25T10:06:00.000-07:00

Last year, the day after Easter, Daryl hit a lot of grocery stores, buying over $100 worth of Cadbury mini-eggs on sale. This year, it was a bit more difficult to find the eggs. For those family members who were hoping for some eggs from us on special occasions, we did manage to find some (though not as many as last year).

Enjoying his first Cadbury egg; most of it ended up on Daddy's fingers, as you can see in the picture below. For those of you who are worried about future eating habits, he has only had two pieces (this one, and the one in the previous entry), and still nurses well.

Little Daryl meets chocolate

2008-03-18T11:09:00.000-07:00

We were eating some chocolates from Daryl's parents, and we decided to let little Daryl taste one. He loved it. In the picture above, he is trying to shove it farther into his mouth by pulling Daryl's hand toward himself. He didn't eat the whole thing; we stopped before he got to the peanut butter filling.

Got chocolate?

Since he was enjoying the chocolate, I decided to try some rice cereal with peaches. He wasn't as enthusiastic about it as we was about the chocolate.

2008-03-11T09:13:00.000-07:00

We had a visit from Uncle Raymond and cousin Camryn last Saturday. Little Daryl has now met both girl cousins (2 boy cousins yet to meet), and 9 uncles (5 left to meet).

2008-03-05T06:43:00.000-08:00

I finally got a picture of little Daryl smiling. The second picture is next to his teddy bear from Great-uncle Bob and Great-aunt Betty.

2008-03-03T10:40:00.000-08:00

Our cats: Dozer and Pugsey (our less known family members) are still trying to figure out the baby. All they know is that little Daryl has barged in, and takes all of our attention. When I am able to set the baby down, my focus is on things I need to do that require 2 hands; petting them is far from my mind. I try to pet them a little, or they will beg at the bedroom door while "Daddy" is sleeping. We have had them for a little over a year. A couple at Daryl's school was giving them away. They were "fixed" and de-clawed when we got them, but one of them makes up for her lack of claws with her teeth. Pugsey will occasionally chew on the blinds or paper left out. I have learned not to leave out yarn for her to play with, because she will eat it, and get sick. Both of them love shiny stuff, and enjoy playing with twist-ties (anything they can "bat" around with their paws).

Little Daryl's smiles caught on video

2008-03-03T07:31:00.000-08:00

2008-03-03T07:26:00.000-08:00

2008-03-03T06:56:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures of the most recent addition of our family, and of the less known members of our family: