The Jonesboro Selbys

What I have been up to!

2010-09-19T19:42:00.007-05:00

Look at my teeth! They let me eat big girl food. I love Radar!

I got to do a trial run of eating cake, Saturday is the big day!

Dressed up to go to church

Practing my yoga moves

My favorite hiding place

My first Redwolves game. Don't worry, when Momma started howling I put my hand over her mouth, I only allow hog calling in my house!

Chicago Vacay!

2010-09-19T18:06:00.010-05:00

We took a family vacation at the beginning of August with my sister's family to Chicago. I hadn't been to Chicago for fun before, just business. We really liked it! Great fun for the kids and good food! We stayed down town and our hotel was within walking distance of all the important Chicago landmarks...Giordano's Pizza and Oprah's apartment building.

We visited the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium, the Navy Pier, the Chicago Children's Museum (loved it!), Michigan Avenue, Wrigley Field and the Lincoln Park Zoo. The last night we were there Toby, Anna Kathryn and me were walking back to the hotel and we saw a crowd forming on the corner by Bloomingdales. Turns to find out it, President Obama was staying in the 4 Season's which is above Bloomingdales. We got to see his motorcade drive by which was pretty interesting to watch.

I would highly recommend Chicago for a family vacation!

AK during the drive up

Toby pointing to fish at the Shedd Aquarium

Charlotte and AK at Giordano's

Toby and AK at the Navy Pier--she took a nap

AK at the Children's Museum (we LOVED it)

Toby and AK waiting on the Presidental Motorcade

Late 10 Month...Late 11 Month

2010-08-20T12:18:00.005-05:00

I missed AK's 10 month and 11 month update and now she will turn 1 this week! Here are somethings we want to remember:

-She is GROWING!!! Her 9 month post she was just starting to wear 12 month clothes, she can now fit into 18 month clothes.

-She is doing a little better about eating table food, she will eat soft green beans, carrots, crackers and apples. Oh, and Nana Kat's nectarines.

-She has started sleeping better. We completed "Operation Cry It Out" and she will most of the time sleep through the night. If she wakes up, she just needs her passy and goes back down.

-She has started free standing and walking holding onto things.

-She has said "Da Da" to Toby...I believe we are counting this as her first word.

-She can wave bye, bye.

-She loves to give kisses.

-She wears a size 4 shoe and a size 3 diaper.

-She loves her bath time, she would play for hours in the bath tub. Charlotte taught her how to splash and she has been practicing ever since. She squeals and smiles when Toby undresses her and starts to walk toward the bathroom because she knows it is about to be bath time.

-She doesn't like for Bella to ignore her. If Bella is trying to sleep AK will crawl over to her and wake her up. Bella doesn't seem to mind, just licks her hands and goes back to sleep.

My Favorite Activities!

2010-06-29T20:08:00.008-05:00

Talking with Bella

Drinking my juice in my sippy cup

Eating with no shirt on

Helping Moma "fold" laundry

And my most favorite, wrestling with Daddy

9 Months

2010-06-29T19:54:00.004-05:00

Anna Kathryn turned 9 months old on June 24th. A few things we want to remember:

-She weighs a little over 19 lbs...UPDATE At her 9 month check-up she is actually 20 lbs and 4 oz. Which is 75th percentile.

-She is 28.6 in long which is also 75th percentile. I just knew she was going to be short, I guess we will see.

-She is still in a size 3 diaper

-She can wear 9 month clothes, but 12 months are starting to fit her better

-She is in a size 2 shoe

-She has just started taking interest in table/finger foods

-She is eating #2 and #3 baby food, Gerber Puffs, Baby Mum Mums and Gerber Biter Biscuits

-She has mastered crawling

-She has started pulling up and standing up. She will walk a few steps if she has something to hold on to.

-She still only has 2 teeth. Her top gums are so swollen, but they have been like that for about a month and half.

-She does not sleep through the night. She has reverted back to her 1 month old sleeping patterns. Needless to say I am tired!

-She gives really good kisses now to Me, Toby and Minnie Mouse.

-She has learned the word "No" and what it means...this does not mean she listens.

-She doesn't say Moma or Dada, but I was showing her a flash card with the word "doll" and of course she looks at me and says "Doll!" She is a GENIUS!!!

8 Months

2010-05-28T09:15:00.005-05:00

I am late in updating AK's 8 month stats! Toby had to have surgery so we have been preparing for him to be down. AK is growing like a weed. She is now to long for me to rock her to sleep like I used to, she now has to scrunch up her legs just to fit on my chest. A few things we want to remember.

-She officially started crawling last week.
-She has learned how to sit up on her own. She will be on her belly and move around to sit up.
-She LOVES the remote control.
-She "talks" more now. Her sounds, sound like words rather than baby cooing.
-She still wears a size 3 diaper, but has moved to 12 month clothes.
-She has started pulling up to her knees to get to stuff.
-She has been teething for over a month now, her top gums are so swollen, I can't believe her top teeth haven't pushed through yet.
-As a result of the teething, she has had a runny nose for the past month.
-When she is ready for bed she will lay her head on my shoulder and close her eyes, but before she will go to sleep she will pop her head up and smile one last time at Toby and then lay her head down again and then she is out.
-She is a very good natured baby until she is hungry and then she screams, cries and whines.

We love you baby girl! Toby and I were just talking yesterday that we can't even remember what it was like not to have you!

7 Months

2010-04-24T20:32:00.002-05:00

Anna Kathryn is 7 months old today! This last month has flown by. I can't believe she is on the downhill slide to being 1. A few stats:
-She weighs 16 lbs 13 oz
-She is in 9 month clothes and moving up fast!
-She wears a size 3 diaper
-She will roll to anywhere she wants to go
-She has two teeth, they are her bottom middle
-She is teething...as I type
-She can sit up pretty well, she is still a little wobbly
-She as just learned to get up on her knees and hands. She has started rocking back and forth.
-She has learned to give "sugars" aka kisses. She loves to give her Daddy kisses. I even got a french kiss the other day! Baby slobber, yum!
-She went swimming for the first time a couple of weeks ago, she LOVED it!

Call Me Crazy!

2010-03-24T20:36:00.003-05:00

For about 3 weeks now, I have been having a thought everytime I look at Anna Kathryn. Everytime I look at her, I see my sister Hannah. Especially, when she smiles. Call me crazy! What do you think?

Hannah is on the left (that's me in the chair)

P.S. Hannah send me a few pictures of you when you were a baby...before I came along and ruined all of your fun!

6 Months!

2010-03-24T18:54:00.004-05:00

It is Anna Kathryn's 1/2 Birthday today!

I have already started thinking about her 1st birthday party. Mark your calendar for September 25th! A few things we want to remember:

-She wears a size 3 diaper.

-She had her first #2 baby food tonight for dinner. She LOVED it!

-She is growing out of her 6 month clothes and is moving into 9 month sizes.

-She has one tooth. Toby likes to call her "snaggles."

-We think she weighs around 16 lbs, we will find out on our next doctor visit.

-She is very happy baby. She laughs, squeals and talks all the time.

-She is trying to scoot when we put her on the floor.

-She does really well sitting up in her boppy. We don't think it will be to long before she is sitting up on her own.

-To get a smile for a picture, all we have to do is sing the chorus of "Fly Like An Eagle." It works, we don't know why.

-She has officially been given Radar, Toby's bear from his childhood. He swore he would never let anyone play with him...he is a little partial.

-She and Selby really pay attention to one another. Selby will come up to AK when she is in her exersaucer and just talk and play with her. Selby also gives AK hugs. It is very sweet.

5 Months!

2010-02-24T19:41:00.005-06:00

I can't believe my baby is 5 months old! Oh, how fast it has gone! A few things we want to remember:
-She has started eating baby food...her favs are sweet potatoes, squash and carrots so far.
-She loves to gab with Bella, she just squeals and talks to her all the time. She also reaches for her so that Bella will lick her hands. Yes, this grosses me out a little.
-She has just moved to 6-9 month clothes
-She weighs 14 lbs 8 ozs
-She has really taken to her exersaucer
-She likes to sit in her high chair and watch tv while I cook dinner
-She is pretty easy baby, she only cries when she is hungry and sleepy
-She LOVES to play Peek-A-Boo with her Daddy
-She still only takes 4-5 oz per bottle but we have added baby food twice a day
-To me she looks just like her Daddy
-Although she has gained weight and looks so different from when she was born, when I am rocking her to sleep she has the same facial expression that she had the first time I got to hold her

We love you "Baby Girl"/"Squirt"!

My New Outfit...Well Sort Of

2010-01-31T09:09:00.003-06:00

This is actually the outfit we bought for Anna Kathryn to come home in. She finally can wear it at 4 months and 7 days old. It is still a little big in the waist and of course the sleeves are too long. She got her short arms from me. We are off to church!

Progression of "The Roll"

2010-01-28T20:08:00.008-06:00

Anna Kathryn rolled over 1 day before her 4 month birthday. We actually caught it on camera. She still is having a little trouble moving her underneath arm out from under her, but she is working on it.

(1)Turn on my side

(2)Throw my arm and feet over

(3) Roll to my tummy

(4) Pose for the camera!

4 Months!

2010-01-24T08:12:00.002-06:00

Our baby girl is 4 months old today! I can't believe she is 4 months old!

Doesn't she look like Toby?

-She weighs around 12-13lbs.

-She has rolled over once

-She loves her Daddy...she smiles everytime she sees him

-She loves to be thrown up in the air, bounced...anything "dangerous"

-She is in a size 2 diaper

-She has started sleeping in on Saturday mornings. She will usually sleep to 8:00 or 8:30 a.m.

-She is nosy. She comes by it honest. She loves to look around a restaurants and out in public, it is one of her favorite things

-She is a squealer!

-She has just started noticing Bella. She will follower her around the house with her eyes.

-She still likes to be rocked to sleep, I don't mind

-She loves her hands, they taste so good. She has started to try put her feet in her mouth.

3 Months

2009-12-26T09:38:00.009-06:00

Anna Kathryn turned 3 months old on Christmas Eve. A few things we want to remember:
-She weighs 10 lbs 13 oz
-She is sleeping through the night, she started around 11 weeks, I am VERY thankful
-She laughed for the first time yesterday
-She takes a 4-4.5 oz bottle every 3 hours
-She is beginning to talk alot, especially in church
-If Toby comes into the room she will find him as soon as she hears his voice
-She is a cuddley baby, she still wants to be held close in a little ball
-She is sleeping in her crib
-She has started playing with toys
-She wears 3 months clothes, but we have moved to some 6 months sleepers because she is to long for the 3 months

We love you baby girl!

This is how I found her one morning....we are going to have to clear out her bed, we have a wiggler.

Busy!

2009-11-25T15:21:00.002-06:00

Toby was busy on Sunday night. He put up the Christmas tree while me and AK watched. My mom made us custom stocking that match our tree. The stockings are made out of the fabric from my 11th graded homecoming dress--they are eco friendly stockings.

Bella wanted in the picture, she loves X-Mas

2 Months!

2009-11-24T14:29:00.005-06:00

Anna Kathryn is 2 months today! A few things we want to remember:
-She weighs 9lbs
-She smiles and "talks" a lot, especially when she is laying on the changing pad
-She has a tight grip and holds onto my shirt when she is going to sleep
-She takes a 4-4.5 oz bottle
-She is sleeps for 5-6 hours, wakes up hungry, eats and sleeps another 3-4 hours
-We still can't tell what color her eyes are. Some days they are blue, some days grey, some days brown
-She wears a size 1 diaper
-Tonight she is moving to her big girl bed...wish us luck!

I AM UPSET!

2009-11-18T15:30:00.005-06:00

I just realized that I am gettting a double chin!

Eating My Words

2009-11-18T15:09:00.007-06:00

There are several things that I said I would never do that I have freely given into since having AK. For one, I never thought I would be a "Bow Momma" but for some reason I can't stand all of AK's hair to go to waste. Toby gets aggravated at me because the headbands and bows cause problems when AK is strapped into the car seat. I recently made a trip to Batesville to the "Largest Fabric Store in the Mid-South" and picked up several pieces of ribbon. I have been on a bow making binge for the past week.

AK's first trip to "Marshalls"--A big day in a little girl's life!

Taking After Moma?

2009-10-28T08:44:00.002-05:00

I think Anna Kathryn is a spitting image of Toby, but it looks like she might be taking after me in one way. I think we are going to have a thumb sucker on our hands. This is how I found her this morning during her after bottle nap. Thank goodness our dental insurance pays for orthodontic procedures!

1 Month

2009-10-28T08:36:00.004-05:00

At 1 month, Anna Kathryn:

Weighs 6lbs 5 oz
Grunts a lot!
Cries real tears
Eats a 3 oz bottle
Sleeps for 3-4 hours at night, she has had one 6 hour sleep stretch
Has discovered her fingers and loves to put them in her mouth
Helps hold her bottle often
Can hold her head up for 3-4 minutes
Is moving out of her newborn clothes into 0-3 month clothes

We love you so much baby girl!

Today Was A Big Day!

2009-10-18T14:44:00.003-05:00

Today, Anna Kathryn made her first trip to church. We think she liked it. She is also wearing her first 0-3 month sleeper! My baby is GROWING!!! Soon we will have to pack away her newborn clothes which makes me a little sad.

Charlotte Meeting Anna Kathryn

2009-10-11T12:53:00.007-05:00

On Friday, Hannah and Charlotte came to visit. This was the first time Charlotte got to meet Anna Kathryn. Charlotte was really sweet with her after she figured out she wasn't supposed to poke Anna Kathryn in her eyes.

Charlotte giving Anna Kathryn a hug. How Sweet!

What a Day!

2009-09-30T18:43:00.014-05:00

Anna Kathryn Selby

9/24/09

9:03 a.m.

6 lbs 0 oz

20.75 inches

Toby and I went to the hospital one week ago today to start the induction process. On Wednesday night, they started me on medicine to help start effacing with the plan to start the pitocin drip early Thursday morning. Wednesday night did not go as planned.

The medicine did not work, I had a couple of contractions that sent me to the ground, my blood pressure started going through roof and Anna Kathryn started experiencing "D-cells" which means her heart rate would drop drastically for a period of time.

By early Thursday morning, I had a feeling that if the pitocin didn't start working pretty fast then it would mean a C-section. I never got the chance to start the pitocin. About 8:00 a.m. two nurses walked into the room with a lot of items in their hands. I saw where the one nurse had a tray that had "spinal tray" on the labeling, I knew then a C-section was coming.

Our doctor came into the room and said he thought it would be a good idea to do a C-section. When Toby asked, "When," the doctor said "Right Now." I had about 5 minutes before they started prepping me for surgery which was just enough time to call my mom and ball on the phone.

They pushed me back to the operating room making Toby stay behind to gown up. The spinal block went great and didn't hurt a bit. They started to prep me and I think cut me and I asked where was Toby...they almost forgot to let him come in.

Toby said that when he walked in the doctor was already wrist deep into my stomach. Of course I would have fainted but Toby just said it looked like gutting a deer. I love my husband!

After about 10 minutes, I got to kiss my little girl! I remember the first thing I said was "Oh, Toby she is so small!"

The drama didn't stop there.

Anna Kathryn's temperature dropped and wouldn't come back up so she stayed in the NICU for about 4 hours. I believe it was 1:00 p.m. before I got to hold my baby girl. She had to stay in the NICU that night also. Because she was so small she was having trouble eating and I spiked a 103 degree fever on Saturday, we stayed an extra day in the hospital. We finally came home on Sunday.

Both Anna Kathryn and I are doing good now, except for her having her nights and days mixed up. We are working on that.

We want your guesses!

2009-09-23T11:22:00.002-05:00

We are going into the hospital tonight to be induced. So we want your guess on weight and height.

I think...

6 lbs 7oz

19.5 inches

CORRECTION to the previous post...

2009-09-08T16:55:00.003-05:00

We had a doctor's appointment today and we have a scheduled induction date of September 24th! If my progression continues as is Miss Anna Kathryn will celebrate her birthday 9/24/09 or maybe before...sure is becoming really "real" now. Excuse me I have to go and clean out closets and organize my sock drawer.

30 Days To Go!

2009-09-05T16:04:00.003-05:00

We're now counting down in days instead of weeks! 30 days or less to go!

36 weeks

It Is Finished!

2009-08-29T16:49:00.005-05:00

We have finished Anna Kathryn's room. We are working on finishing packing the hospital bag today and then we will be completely ready. Well as ready as we can be!

Notice the book collection...Nana Kat fixed Anna Kathryn up! The brown bear is "Radar" Toby's bear he slept with until 2006, the kitten in the basket "Kit Kit" was my sleeping buddy but only until I was in 3rd grade.

My Mom (Grandma) made all of the bedding. I LOVE it! The bad thing is if we have another baby and it is a girl my Mom will have to at least make a whole new comforter. I don't think she would mind.

Full view of the crib comforter. Fabric is my Mom's medium!

We are planning on taking black and white photos of AK to put in the frames.

The curtain has flowers at the bottom that match the comforter. Toby made the butterfly mobile from Christmas ornaments we found at Garden Ridge in Memphis.

By Request

2009-08-19T18:40:00.002-05:00

So I have had several requests for a "belly shot." Normally, I am against belly shots not on other people just on myself.

By request here is a picture of a 33 week and 4 day belly.

Pregnancy hormones have done a number on my belly...I am growing white hair!

I Am Partial!

2009-07-29T17:14:00.015-05:00

I am a little partial to my mom. Why? Well, for one she has worked hard on making the crib bedding along with other things for Anna Kathryn. We love the bedding and the Moses basket! She also has made Bella a blanket. We are going to wrap Anna Kathryn up in the blanket so her scent will be on it. The blanket will be Bella's first introduction to Anna Kathryn.

Bella likes the crib bedding too! She is getting ideas for a redesign to her bed.

"Bella's New Baby" blanket

The Things A Daddy Will Do And Put Up With...

2009-07-04T15:37:00.003-05:00

My Saturday project was to start making bows for Anna Kathryn. Of course, I needed to see if they would work. Toby is going to be such a good Daddy!

Voting Time!

2009-07-02T12:40:00.008-05:00

We went for our 3D/4D ultrasound today. So who do you think she looks like? We have had mixed reviews so far...at least no one has said "Bella!"

Who Loves Brupper?

2009-06-28T20:07:00.004-05:00

Does anyone love Brupper (breakfast for supper) as much as I do? We had Brupper this week and I made Toby a special biscuit. My mom bought this "special" shaped cookie cutter for Toby for his first unofficial Father's Day.

What We've Been Up To...

2009-06-13T20:32:00.008-05:00

For the last few weeks, Toby has been working like a mad man on the house to get ready for Anna Kathryn. We have moved things around and moved things out. Toby has already put outlet covers on every outlet in the house. He is going to be such a good Daddy! Last weekend, Toby finished painting Anna Kathryn's room. We have picked out fabric that my Mom is going to make crib bedding that matches the room. Bella seems to think we are making over the room for her. Poor thing has a rude awakening coming in October.

We Found Out...

2009-05-06T16:59:00.003-05:00

It's a "Little Becca!"

"Anna Kathryn" Selby

Any Guesses?

2009-05-04T16:13:00.002-05:00

We are going for my second ultrasound on Wednesday and we should find out if we are having a boy or girl. I am interested to know what people think we will have because I don't have any "feelings," although I will be very surprised if it is a boy.

So, do you think it will be a "Little Becca" or a "Little Toby?"

Ham or Lamb?

2009-04-10T12:17:00.002-05:00

So, which are you having on Easter Sunday?

It wasn't until recently I learned why it is tradition to have ham on Easter. Growing up, I had my own theory. I thought ham was just the final response to Jews, "We know that Jesus is the son of God, He is risen, and now we are going to go and eat an unclean animal, because we can!" I remember thinking at the dinner table "there sure aren't any Jews eating ham today, I wonder if they get to eat potato salad?" Well, of course my theory wasn't quite correct.

The tradition of eating ham on Easter started long ago in America. Farmers would work all summer to fatten up their hogs to slaughter in the fall. Once they slaughtered the hogs, they let them cure for a few months. It just so happened that the curing process ended about the time Easter rolled around. People wanted to create a nice meal on Easter Sunday, so they would of course eat the best meat they had...the cured ham.

I personally like my theory better...oh well.

Happy Easter! I hope we get to sing "Low In The Grave He Lay" on Sunday. I think I might make a call to Travis.

We Are Having A....

2009-04-01T09:46:00.002-05:00

Toby and I found out yesterday that we are having a GIRL! We are SO excited for our little girl! We can't wait to meet....

Jasmine Etoille Selby

P.S. April Fool's!

How Old Are We?

2009-02-21T20:18:00.004-06:00

Tonight, Toby and I went and partied at the Electric Cowboy. No, just kidding!!!

We went to eat catfish at 5:30 p.m. We decided that we didn't want to go to Ron's (our favorite) because we are old and we couldn't eat enough to make it worth it. So we went to Catfish Cafe and got a "Little Nibbler." We then went home and turned on the tube and started watching the Gaithers.

I love the Gaithers! Specifically, I love "Christian Fabio." His name is actually, Guy Penrod. I have always had a fond place in my heart for long haired men. Ahhh, "Christian Fabio." Don't worry, Toby doesn't mind, he has a "Christian Fabio" wig he wears around the house.

Besides, Toby sings "Will the Circle Be Unbroken" way better than "Christian Fabio" ever could!

Go Obama Go!

2009-01-20T07:47:00.011-06:00

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

Do you remember what you thought about when you learned about Dr. Martin Luther King's speech/assisination, the Little Rock Nine or Rosa Park's story in history class?

I remember thinking how could "Christians" do such things. I remember thinking how could these people sing "Jesus Loves the Little Children" in Sunday school class and do such awful things just because of the color of someone's skin.

Today, I am proud that the United States of American will come closer to healing some of the wounds inflicted by racist Americans. I am proud to see hope and pride in minority and majority Americans eyes when they see how far as nation we have come.

I hope that you will say a prayer for President-Elect Obama today that he will have the knowledge, fervor, strength and fortitude to lead our nation for the next four years.

I am not naive to think that everyone reading my blog agrees with President-Elect Obama's politics, however I do think we owe it to our nation to be positive and know that God is in control.

Happy October!

2008-10-02T09:58:00.004-05:00

October is my favorite month for three reasons. Halloween (my favorite holiday), the cool weather of fall comes to town and several family members celebrate their birthdays (My Dad 10/24, Bella 10/22 and Selby TBA).

Speaking of Little Miss Selby, Marti and Chad have a date when she will be arriving--hint--it is going to be next week.

So as of next week, I will be a aunt twice over which I am pretty much excited about. I am sad that Charlotte is so far away but I am glad that Selby will be just down the street.

Charlotte is growing and starting to do baby things. She holds her head up, plays with her fingers and toes, laughs, smiles and responds back to you when you talk to her. She is so smart! Hannah says she has an attitude, I can't imagine where she got it.

I hope everyone has a happy October! Get to work on those Halloween costumes!

I will post pictures of Selby when she gets here, Bella's birthday party (Dora themed) and Halloween. Stay tuned.

Works For Me Wednesday

2008-09-10T08:59:00.004-05:00

I just got an email from my husband who is in Omaha, NE this week and it said, "UPDATE YOUR BLOG." Well, I don't have anything really news worthy, so I am going to do "Works for Me Wednesday."

1. I put bleach into my vacuum cleaner (a Hyla--like a Rainbow). Why? I like the smell of chlorine. Working in the food industry, you get accustomed to the smell of "clean" which is chlorine sanitizer. Tip: It also deodorizes the house.

2. I plan each meal for the following week before I go to the grocery store. I only buy what is on my list, unless Tobes is with me and then he tends to pick extra stuff up.

3. I buy family packs of hamburger meat, chicken, etc when they are on sale. I then divide the family pack into individual dinner portions and freeze them.

4. I use baby wipes to spot clean Bella. She is messy and she likes her "mini bathes."

5. I only buy leather shoes and leather purses. This is a habit that I got from my mother. I know there is nothing "wrong" with non leather shoes/purses, but I can't bring myself to buy them. Call me crazy!

6. The first thing I do when I get home after work is watch my recording of the day's Oprah. The new season started Monday!!! I LOVE OPRAH!!!

7. When Tobes is out of town I eat pinto beans and cornbread at least once! I love pinto beans and cornbread and he will not touch them with a ten foot pole.

8. Tobes does the laundry and I fold and put away (most of the time). I don't ever have to worry on the weekends about starting laundry, he usually gets up and starts it before I get up. He is just the greatest!!!

9. We don't eat breakfast at the house on Sunday mornings. Why? I don't know. We are never in a real hurry. We just stop by Kum and Go and I get coffee and a breakfast bar. Tobes gets a "breakfast soda."

10. I will not let my eating utensils touch a table at a restaurant. Picture this: a bus boy (or girl) takes a rag, dips it into soapy water and starts to clean off a table. He/she proceeds to wipe the salt and pepper shakers with the rag, (which has probably been touched by someone who hasn't washed their hands after using the bathroom), then proceeds to wipe down the seats (which have come into contact with shoes that have been in the bathroom, on the ground, in the grass that Fido has done his business on, etc.). Jill and Bill arrive to restaurant and unwraps their utensils. Bill lays his fork and knife on the table, but Jill has read my blog. Eat up Bill!

Happy Birthday, Moma!

2008-07-31T13:23:00.003-05:00

Today is my mom's birthday. This is a milestone birthday for her, #40. Toby and I were going to go see her tonight and give her her gift (yes, I said gift moma), but I woke up this morning with a little stomach bug. Needless to say I have only felt like doing two things today, sleeping and I will leave the last to the imagination. I digress.

Happy Birthday Moma, I love you!

My mother's side of the family. This was the only picture I have of my mom, that is BAD!

I'm a LITTLE Jealous

2008-07-27T16:07:00.006-05:00

Toby and I went to go see Charlotte yesterday. She is growing like a weed and getting cuter everyday. She is now up to 9 lbs. 2 ounces. I held Charlotte as much as I could, but I really wanted her to meet her Uncle Toby. Well....I think little Charlotte just might have a new favorite. My mom is very concerned! She woke up and studied Toby a little and then...she sacked out. Toby must be comfy!

2008-07-15T19:02:00.011-05:00

Charlotte Rae Parks
July 15, 2008
7 lbs 15 oz. 20.5 inches

Hannah and Frankie did great! Both of them were cool, calm and collective. I was the nervous one.

Hannah went in at 8:00 a.m. to be induced, but she was already having contractions. They hooked her up with some medicine to start the induction shortly after 8:00 a.m., she had an epidural at ~11:30 a.m. and Charlotte was born at 3:07 p.m.

After the doctor and nurses got Hannah and Charlotte cleaned up we got to go in a see her. My mom, dad, grandma and Frankie's mom were there. I am not an emotional person by any means, but the moment I saw Hannah holding her, I started crying. It was the most precious thing I have ever seen!

Hannah was just being Hannah. When I asked her if it was bad she said, "Nah, it wasn't any big deal." That's Hannah, there hasn't ever been much of anything that has gotten the best of her.

We think Charlotte has Hannah's mouth and chin. She definitely has Hannah's fingers for toes thing going on. Her hair is brown, but not really dark like Frankie's or Hannah's. She ate really well when Hannah fed her. Mom said she LOVED her bath.

Ok, I could go on and on--so I won't. If you would like a personal brag session with me, I am taking appointments.

Behold, the most precious baby in the whole wild world!!!

Hannah, Charlotte, Me and Mom

I promise Aunt Becca didn't teach her that!

In Grandpa's Arms

My Grandmother and Charlotte

Coming Soon!

2008-07-14T12:49:00.002-05:00

Charlotte Rae Parks

Hannah is scheduled to be induced tomorrow at 8:00 a.m. in Conway. Please, if you don't mind say a little prayer for Hannah, Charlotte and my brother-in-law Frankie. (He might need it more than anyone) Looks like I should have a niece tomorrow!!! Pictures to follow, of course!

UFO Sighting!

2008-07-06T15:50:00.008-05:00

Unidentified Flavorful Object.....

One thing you won't see very often in the Selby household is dessert. Why, you ask? Because we try our best to be "weight conscious" and I could eat a entire chocolate cake by myself. However, I gave into temptation because I heard about something that in the end turned out DE-LECT-TABLE!!!

You have probably all heard of substituting the oil in cake mixes with applesauce, right?

This is better.

Substitute the eggs, oil and water in cake mixes with....a diet soda!!!

It adds no calories and it works. See my evidence below.

The cake is very moist. For a dark cake substitute a dark can of diet soda, I used Diet Dr. Pepper. If someone would like to volunteer, try to cook a yellow or white cake mix with a Diet Sprite and let me know how it goes. I assume it would work just the same, but I don't know.

Add cake mix, diet soda, mix and bake as directed

My Favorite Blog Site!

2008-07-03T08:50:00.004-05:00

Have you ever had anything you didn't want to share with anyone else?

For a month or two, I have been falling in love with my new favorite blog site. I have the dilemma whether to share it with my blog readers. I know that sounds bad, but I have started using some of her material.

I have decided that it would be a waste if my readers didn't get to at least check her blog site out to see if they love it as much as I do.

Go to http://www.thepioneerwoman.com/.

The Pioneer Woman's story is great! She grew up in what seems to be an upper middle class town in Oklahoma, moved to USC to go to college, went back to visit her family in Oklahoma, met a cowboy and fell madly in love with the cowboy. She now lives on a cattle ranch in rural Oklahoma with her 4 "punk" kids and "Marlboro Man."

Be sure to check out "Black Heels To Tractor Wheels." It is her and Marlboro Man's love story. It is EXCELLENT writing. If you decide to dive in and read it....put the kids to bed/nap time, pour you a Diet Dr. Pepper and have a couple of hours to spare. You won't want to stop reading!

Have a HAPPY 4th of July!

P.S. We have heard that Toby's new office (on Caraway right next to Patty Cakes) has an excellent view of the Freedom Fest fireworks. Toby and I will be parking at his office and sitting outside to watch them. If anyone would like to join us they are more than welcome to.

Bonus....you always have shelter from the hot and mosquitoes inside of Selby Insurance and Financial...and bathroom facilities!!!

Look Down for Los Angeles Blog Entry!

2008-06-05T21:45:00.001-05:00

Shout Out to My Two Favorite Teachers!

2008-05-27T18:22:00.004-05:00

Today, my mom and dad retired from teaching!

My mom has taught for 37 years and my dad a few years less than that, most of which was at Midland High School where I graduated. My mom was a Family and Consumer Science (Home Economics) and Gifted and Talented teacher. My dad was a History, Health, Drivers Education teacher. He also was a coach of many things but mostly basketball. In honor of their retirement, I will tell a teaching story on both of them.

Anti-Smoking="Better Than Everyone"
Setting: Consumer Economics class when I was in 8th grade--I was in the class.

Trying to get 8th graders to understand the monetary implications of smoking, my mom started explaining how expensive cigarettes were to buy. The lesson of money quickly turned into a anti-smoking campaign. My mom went on and on about why you shouldn't smoke both because of health and money (we had heard it all before). Somewhere in the discussion my mom said, "Every parent that smokes was wasting money." This isn't exactly what she said, but that is what all of the smoker's kids heard.

The students started a rebellion. A "Treece" rebellion. The whole class started talking about how Mrs. Treece thought she was better than everyone that smokes. This quickly turned into Rebecca thinks that she was better than everyone that smokes. Yes, the age old dilemma of someone being better than someone else. Ahhh!!!

The class was over in 30 minutes but the discussion was not. I had to live the next week with no one talking to me even my "friends" who's parents smoked and even some "friends" who's parents didn't smoke but they sided with the smoker families.

Truth is, now I would said the same thing as my mom.

Smoke and smoking are EVIL, DEADLY, COSTLY and a WASTE OF MONEY!!!

The End of Arch Nemesis
Setting: Some history class in high school--I was in the class.

One of the girls that was in my grade, I will call her Arch Nemesis, could NOT stand for anyone to beat her. She would lie and cheat to win. I have proof because of my dear Dad.

Arch would always "TRY" to beat me with higher test scores. She had many methods to her madness.

-Ask teachers to see her test grade before everyone else and question them on what the highest grade was.

-Ask to pass out the tests to look and see what everyone else made.

-She would make friends with whoever was sitting behind me so that after tests were passed out she would rush to talk to them to try to get a look at my grade.

Arch and I were in my dad's history class. Because my dad was the teacher I of course had inside information (no cheating). He would always grade my tests and then tell me what I made. Just for giggles, he would tell me if I beat Arch. Most of the time I did. The next day, Arch would ask me what I made, I would tell her. She would then high ball me. Little did she know, I knew she was lying through her teeth.

I never called her on it, I figured if she needed validation that bad at the age of 15 I would give it to her.

Thanks Dad!

The Becca Mecca--Hollywood, CA

2008-05-25T22:19:00.014-05:00

For anyone that knows me well knows that I enjoy the phenomenon of "Celebritism." I subscribe to US Weekly, I read MSN Celebrity Gossip every day and watch any "reality" t.v. show that has any type of celebrities in its cast. So, naturally I have always wanted to go to Los Angeles to see where and how celebrities live, work and hang out.

Hence, the Becca Mecca.

While in Los Angeles, Toby gave into my cravings of find celebrity hang outs. We went to...

-Doughboys to eat breakfast--cafe frequented by The Hills cast

-Hyde--celebrity night club where Paris, Lindsey and Brittney have been spotted

-Rodeo Drive

-Beverly Hills--I hummed the theme song to Beverly Hills: 90210 the whole time we where in Beverly Hills

-Hotel Roosevelt--famous for the hotel (of course) and the pool. Apparently, if you go there on the weekends you will see celebrities by the pool.

-Cedar Sinai Medical center birthplace of the children of Julia Roberts, Jennifer Lopez, Nicole Richie, Katie Holmes, etc.

-The Church of Scientology headquarters

Hotel Roosevelt--this picture was taken from Hollywood Blvd right in front of the Kodak Theater

Cedars Sinai Medical Center

Beverly Hills entrance sign, I felt like I might see Brenda and Donna walking in the park.

Toby and I had a great time going to the American Idol Finale but we don't have any pictures from the shows. As soon as you entered the parking garage the garage employees handed you a piece of paper that said that any cameras, cell phones, etc would be confiscated at the door.

We learned a valuable lesson while on our trip..."Don't get a high head." After I was for sure I won the trip, I started making the travel plans. We ended up getting bumped to first class on both of our flights, we got a good deal on a nice hotel near Hollywood....everything was "going our way" until....the rental car. We get off of the flight, go to the Avis rental site and there sets Corvettes, Cadillacs and Hummers. Toby actually said, "I bet we are going to get on of those Corvettes." Well, we didn't. The nice Avis man said, "Mrs. Selby go out the door to your right and you will find your blue PT Cruiser in parking space 32." Our luck ran out.

Here is a picture of Toby with the "Blue Hornet" as we named it.

Venice Beach

Outside Garmin Chinese Theater

Kodak Theater, Home of the Oscars

A Big Surprise!

2008-05-17T21:11:00.002-05:00

On Friday afternoon, I received a surprising phone call. I was told that I had won the Nestle employee American Idol contest. At the beginning of this American Idol season, I filled out an online bracket. The contest is scored a lot like the Final Four brackets that everyone is familar with. Well, I WON!!! Toby and I are heading out to LA on Monday night on an all expenses paid trip to watch both the Tuesday and Wednesday shows. I am excited to see the shows, but I am really excited to HOPEFULLY see a celebrity or two. I will post pictures when we get back.

The Big TWO

2008-05-05T16:56:00.014-05:00

Two years ago today, Toby and I began our lives together. It was a blissful day and everything that I could hope for.

Forget that crap...here is the real truth.

After we became engaged in August 2004, I begged Toby to let us go to Hawaii to get married. He insisted that he wanted a hometown wedding. He of course was singing a different tune about January 2005. Our wedding was not great, I would say it was "good." The florist brought the wrong color of flowers; red instead of pink. My bouquet was nothing like I asked for. It rained. It was cold. Our photographer was mediocre to say the best. I liked my dress, I didn't love it. When I remember about the events leading up to us saying "I do" I think of the very wise words of Carrie Bradshaw.

"You have already had the perfect wedding, Charlotte. The way I look at it; the worse the wedding the better the marriage."

Because it is "Ten Things Tuesday" I am going to list ten things about Toby that I love and that no other man would ever do (for me).

10. Hold our dog down while I clean her ears and clip her toe nails

9. Scare me so bad that I fall down and knock my knee on the concrete

8. Take a short shower on Saturday so that I will have enough hot water to shave my legs

7. Forgives my PMS and just knows to buy me chocolate candy bars that week

6. Eats all of my weird cooking inventions--at least once

5. Lets me give him manicures

4. Plays along with me when I want to "gab"

3. Starts the laundry every week

2. Lets me call him Toby Woby--he likes it :)

1. Tucks me in at night when I go to bed

Before everyone thinks our wedding was horrible, it wasn't. Things always go wrong. There are a few things that I remember that were GREAT. I loved my cake (shout out to Christie Jordan). David Jordan, the saint, came up with a lighting scheme to make my flowers appear lighter than they were. He saved my sanity the night before the wedding. Toby recorded a song for me. Travis did an excellent job filming the wedding. My mom worked and worked on the reception and it was delightful, especially the food.

The first two years were fun, I hope and pray the next two are just as good.

Saturday May 06, 2005 9:00 a.m.

Saturday May 06, 2005 4:00 p.m.

San Diego, CA Vacation

2008-04-29T20:21:00.000-05:00

Two weeks ago Toby and I got a chance to go to San Diego. We had a great time. We visited Sea World, the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park. Below are a few pictures of our trip. I would definitely recommend San Diego to families, it was very kid friendly. Kudos to my hubby, he took most of the pictures--which turned out great!

Our hotel, San Diego Hilton Resort, it is right on Mission Bay

Balboa Park, we ate a catered dinner one night in this old Spanish inspired building.

San Diego Zoo

Sea World

Sea World, Shamu Show

Tagged By Danna

2008-04-26T21:11:00.000-05:00

This is my first tag....so here it goes.

What I was doing 10 years ago:
I was in the 11th grade of high school, ready to graduate and move to somewhere away from my high school buddies.

Five things on my to do list today:
1. Sleep In
2. Clean House
3. Finish the Laundry
4. Sort my Recycling
5. Exercise

Things I would do if I were a billionaire:
1. Open up my own restaurant
2. Buy a house in Colorado on a ski slope
3. Open a dog shelter to house rescued dogs
4. Become friends with Oprah
5. Set up a scholarship fund for southern middle class honor students that attend public universities.

Three of my bad habits:
1. I roll my eyes at people--well behind their back
2. I keep a messy car
3. When I take out my contacts at night I never hit the trash can by the bed

Five places I have lived:
1. Batesville
2. Fayetteville
3. Conway
4. Jonesboro
5. Floral, AR

Five jobs I have had:
1. Waitress
2. Research Assistant
3. College Ministry Intern
4. Library Assistant
5. Product Development Technologist

Adventures with Lou Lou and Mimi

2008-04-15T20:41:00.000-05:00

I am blogging from the BEAUTIFUL San Diego, CA. Toby and I suffered through what seemed like a day's worth of flying to get here on Monday night. We are staying at the Hilton San Diego Resort which is located on 18 acres on Mission Bay. It is definitely spring time here. There are azaleas and ferns galore!!! Unfortunately, my allergies are acting up so I have had a sore throat ever since I got off the plane. San Diego, the city, is beautiful too. It looks just like a seen off of Laguna Beach--any Laguna Beach fans out there?

Today, we went to Sea World. I LOVED it!!! The Sea World motto...merging wildlife with human life...really inspired me and Toby. Because we are such animal lovers (well, Bella lovers) we rescued two baby stuffed killer whales, Lou Lou and Mimi. Toby and I already decided not to keep them but to give them to Charlotte and Charti (see Chad's and Marti's blog...this is what we are calling the bambino until it has an official name). So below are a few of the adventures that Lou Lou and Mimi have had today.

Lou Lou and Mimi waiting for the Shamu Show to begin

Lou Lou, Mimi, Aunt Becca and "Uncle Toby"

Lou Lou and Mimi at the Clydesdale Barn

Lou Lou and Mimi relaxing after the trip to Sea World

It is Offical!

2008-04-02T21:20:00.000-05:00

Hannah and Frankie have decided to go with "Charlotte Rae" (sounds like Ray). I am also pleased to say, not to toot my own horn, but they were stuck on what middle name to give little Charlotte and I suggested "Rae." Frankie's middle name is "Ray" so it has significance.

A new thing with Toby and me, is visiting the kids clothing department of every store we go in. We went to Dillards to look for Toby a shirt and Toby just naturally veered off to the baby section before I even said anything. He just lets me look, ooh and aah, and comment how Charlotte would look so cute in this or that.

Last weekend we went to Branson and went to the Mecca of all children's clothing outlets--Carter's. I did some serious shopping for Charlotte. She is going to be one cool dressed baby. I tried my best to pick out practical items for the most part, but every little girl needs a blue polka dot sundress, right? I am on a mission to find her a pair of red sequin slippers. In Jonesboro these are the rage for little girls.

Toby has also gotten into the spirit. He had one of our friends, Jamie Stahl of Ladybug Boutique, to monogram Charlotte a bib. The bib says"Ask my Uncle About....Selby Insurance and Financial." Little Charlotte will mostly definitely have her picture taken in it.

Hannah and Charlotte are both doing good.

Hannah says that every time she goes into Hancock Fabrics little Charlotte goes crazy. Growing up we spent HOURS upon HOURS in fabric stores. Hannah loved it, I HATED it. Hannah told my Dad that Charlotte must be taking after her and my mom, but Dad said it sounded like me because I always kicked and screamed when I saw us pulling into Hancock Fabric. Don't even get me thinking about the Stitching Post in Little Rock. Ahhhh!!!

I can't wait to see her! About 15 more weeks! Please keep both of them in your prayers.

Baby Girl Parks

2008-03-08T04:56:00.001-06:00

Hannah and Frankie will be welcoming a little girl in July!!! I am SO excited!!! I of course have already been to Baby Gap to pick her up a few things. I can't wait to see her. She is going to be so pretty--dark, dark hair with blue eyes. Ahhhh!!! Both Hannah and Frankie have dark hair and blue eyes. I can't wait to kiss her!!! Is it weird to think you will love a niece/nephew as much as you would love your own? I don't think so... They haven't officially decided on a name, so I will leave that to a later post. I wouldn't want Tween Parks to find my blog while searching the Internet in 10 years and find out that she was supposed to be named something else--I am going to try as hard as I can to do things that will keep her out of therapy. :) If anyone has any name suggestions I will pass them along. I have repeatedly suggested Rebecca Kay as a name, but for some reason they are taken with that one.

The New Business

2008-03-08T04:20:00.000-06:00

Toby has started a venture in his business--soon to be empire. He now sells P&C insurance. For those who don't know what P&C insurance is--I didn't until a few weeks ago--it is Home and Auto insurance. Toby has been working VERY hard to get this new business off the ground. He will be up and selling in about a week.

short wife commerical to follow...sorry I can't help it

If anyone needs a quote on auto, home, motorcycle, boat, commerical, life, annuities, health, medicare supplements, medicare part D, long term care, liability or workers comp insurance give Toby Selby at Selby Insurance & Financial a call. Toby has several well known, stable companies that are very competitive with the typical Home and Auto companies that are in Arkansas and Southeast Missouri.

Selby Insurance & Financial--Providing You an Umbrella of Protection

(I just made that up, it is not the motto, but pretty good huh?)

The New Selby Insurance & Financial Logo

Show It Off Saturday

2008-03-08T04:07:00.000-06:00

A Jonesboro friend recently got on to me for not updating my blog for a month now. Since I have been shamed, I will take part in "Show It Off Saturday." Another friend from the blog world has started to theme her blog by days, so Saturdays have been designated to show off something you have made.

Toby and I have started rearranging our house to make it better suited for visitors. We bought a bigger bed for our guest room--now a queen pillow top. I didn't want to spend a lot of money on a bed room suite so I decided to make a covered headboard. Please feel free to invite your self to come and sleep on it anytime!!!

On a side note, yes this blog was started at 4:00 a.m. on Saturday, I am at work right now and have been here since 2:30 a.m.

Exhausted By Fun....

2008-02-03T18:38:00.000-06:00

This weekend, Toby had to work at the Arkansas Sportshow that is put on by his Rotary Club so I decided to go to Batesville to spend the weekend with my Mom and Dad. I of course took Bella to see Grandma and Grandpa. She had a big time. Whenever, Bella goes to Batesville she comes home exhausted because Moma and Daddy play with her I guess a lot more than Toby or I do. On Sunday night, while we were watching the Super Bowl we truly saw how exhausted Bella was. She was laying awake on her bed doing the head nod thing like people do in church. A couple of minutes later we heard a little thump and looked up and saw she had "fallen" asleep. We thought it was funny. Poor thing she was just exhausted from all the fun.

I Have An Announcement!!!

2008-01-22T19:05:00.000-06:00

There is a baby on the way!!! Toby and I are so excited that my sister, Hannah, is expecting. (some of you thought something else didn't you. Ha! Ha!) Hannah and Frankie are expecting a bundle of joy in early July. I can't wait!!! Since we don't know the sex of the baby yet we (I) have been refering to "it" as "Fet-us." Fetus and mom are doing good. My mother told Hannah and I before Christmas that all she wanted for Christmas was a "human grandchild, no dogs." Well, Hannah provided the baby and I provided pajamas. Please keep Hannah and Fetus in your prayers. I can't wait to be an aunt!!!

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-22T22:01:00.000-06:00

Wishing Everyone a Safe and Merry Christmas!

Toby, Rebecca, and Bella

I Finally Did It.

2007-10-26T16:01:00.000-05:00

For years, yes years, I have been saying that I would like to be able to run a 5K. The story goes, I would start to train and get to about a 1 1/2 mile and quit. About 3 months ago, I started my training again. This time I actually signed up for the "Race For The Cure" in Little Rock. I of course had to pay money to enter, so I used it as motivation to keep training. To a lot of people out there, 3.1 miles doesn't sound like a whole lot, but for a 5"2' woman with short legs, it is a lot of ground to cover--especially when you are not in peak shape. So on Saturday, I ran my first 5K. I ran the entire 3.1 miles. My time was 34:30, which I was pretty happy with. I learned a few of things during the race.

At the second water station which is at 2.5 miles, a man who was handing out water yelled, "You are doing so good, keep it up." Now, I would like to think he was just being nice to all of the runners, but I really think he saw the grave desperation on my face and thought, "This lady needs help!!!" The lesson learned was everyone needs a little encouragement from time to time and it helps tremendously even though it might now seem like it.
At the end of the race I stretched my legs, drank two cups of water (slowly), and started to eat some lovely, thick and creamy Yoplait yogurt. Being the food scientist that I am, I thought eating a few bites would help me get my energy back faster and prevent my blood sugar from going low. The lesson learned, don't eat yogurt after running 3.1 miles it will make you sick. Very sick!!!
As I was making my way up to the front of the enormous staring line to get in with the runners, I started following this older lady. Now when I say older I mean easily 75 years old. She had on short running shorts, a long sleeve t-shirt, head band, and gloves. My first thought was "Is she was a runner?" It seemed she was doing the same thing as I was, trying to get in front of the walkers so I could stay with the pack of runners. During the journey closer to the starting line I talked myself out of the decision that she was a runner. But low and behold, the long sleeve t-shirt came off to reveal a tank top and she had a MP3 player. She was a RUNNER!!! The lesson learned, no one is ever to old, frail, out of shape to start exercising. This lady made my day.

So I did it. My next goal....The KAIT 8K in April. See you then.

Happy Birthday Bella!!!

2007-10-22T19:26:00.000-05:00

Our little puppy is 4 years old today!!! For her birthday, Bella got to spend this weekend with Grandma and Grandpa. They got her a pretty hot pink collar with hearts on it. Toby and I got her a new bone and a new toy "Charlie" the headgehog. Toby also picked out several treats for her from the cookie bar in PetsMart. They sure do grow up fast!!!

The Proof is in the Pictures

2007-10-07T19:15:00.000-05:00

Well, this post is dedicated to all the HOGS fans out there that may be reading our blog. Living in Jonesboro is sure different than living in "true" Razorback country. People in Jonesboro tend to cheer for another college team that resides in Northeast Arkansas. As Razorback fans, I know you are appalled. How can someone that is born, raised in Arkansas root for some other team other than the Razorbacks? I don't not know the answer...but they do. Below are pictures that prove that there is at least one other Razorback fan in Jonesboro. The cute little guy is Tucker Dunlap, son of Bradley and Melinda Dunlap. Who by dressing little Tucker have earned their way into Hog Heaven. The best thing, I started calling the Hogs, singing the Fight Song and singing "O It's Hard to Be Humble," and Tucker just started smiling and cooing, just the way all of us Razorback fans do. Ladies and Gentlemen, introducing.....Tucker "I'm a HOGS Fan" Dunlap!!!

Tucker and Uncle Toby relaxing in the "Man Chair."

Isn't he CUTE!!!

Hopefully, a future Razorback, if Aunt Becca has anything to do with it.

Tis the Season!!!!

2007-09-21T16:28:00.000-05:00

It is about this time every year that Toby rekindles his yearly affair with widlife. Every October I seem to become single again because he is in the deer woods. Last weekend, we headed to "The Farm"--as Toby calls it--to prep his deer stands--yes there are multiple. We put out deer corn and deer cocaine. The first picture below is Toby taking in the view from one of the deer stands to see if we needed to cut any trees and/or branches that might obstruct his view of "Moo Daddy." Moo Daddy is the most elusive buck on "The Farm." Thankfully, no branches and/or trees had to be cut down. The second picture is a picture of the drop zone that the Little Rock Air Force base uses to train for dropping supplies, etc. "The Farm" borders the drop zone--just a fun little factiod for all of the readers out there.

Classic Traditional Toby vs. Pottery Barn Becca

2007-08-26T22:57:00.000-05:00

One of the first things Toby and I learned during our first year of marriage is we have very strong ideas on what our house "should" look like. Unfortunely, Toby's ideas and my ideas don't always match up. We both have very different styles in decorating. Don't worry Toby isn't starting a new career as a decorator, but he know what he likes and can find items just about anywhere. I on the other hand, would just order everything out of Pottery Barn and be done with it. We recently have had a breakthrough. The early fall Pottery Barn catalog has made every redneck man's dream come true. DEER ANTLERS ARE IN STYLE!!! Don't believe me, look online. Stay tuned for our new and "improved" living room complete with a new and Pottery Barn inspired theme. However, after many tears and much sweat we have started on our "Do-It-Yourself" projects to make our house more "ours." Below are a few pictures of the projects we have completed. We recently started putting up crown molding in the house. The kitchen is finished, next is the living room and hall.

Crown Molding---"That's Hot!"

The "Selby" Photo Collage

This antique buffet had been stained and then painted with black paint. Toby and I stripped the paint and stain and restained it.

We refinished this FREE china cabinet for our wedding china.

Happy 30th Birthday Toby!!!

2007-08-02T19:41:00.000-05:00

Toby celebrated his 30th birthday on July 22nd--well actually celebrated on July 21st. I made a "semi" low calorie cake. There aren't many things you can do to cakes that will lower calories but keep the integrity of the texture, flavor, etc. But when I figure it out, you will be the first to know. So Happy Birthday to Toby, one more year closer to being 40.

A Chicken and Pup...What a Combination!!!

2007-06-19T21:18:00.000-05:00

Below are pictures of my two favorite "animals." The first one, of course is Toby dressed in the "Grouchy Rooster" costume at "WOW" (VBS Southwest Style). By the end of WOW kids were hating on Toby because of course no one should be like the "Grouchy Rooster" everyone should boost their Bible school. BOOST!!!! He even had one kid come and hit him in his roosterhood. As the kid was running away he was screaming "Take That Grouchy Rooster!" Yes, WOW was a sucess--taught many children the love of Christ. Of course, after that we really had a "Grouchy Rooster" on our hands. The second two, are of my Bella. Bella has recently become epileptic. She has seizures. We think we have them controlled with medicine, we hope. She loves to pull, tug, growl and eat. She is half bulldog so it comes natural. Believe it or not, Bella knows the names of her toys, she is smart like her moma. She is at her Grandma's and Grandpa's for a few days. Grandpa has been feeding the neighborhood squirrels bird seed so that Bella can chase them and act like a "big" dog.

Me with my favorite piece of chicken!

Bella in front of our house....and elephant ears!

Bella with her favorite toy "Bear." Grandma made it for her.

In the beginning...

2007-06-19T19:50:00.000-05:00

I have been thinking about starting my blog because I admit I have an addiction to looking at several other's blogs everyday. I love being able to connect to my friends that are far away and feel like I have talked to them by reading what they have done day to day. Unfortunely, I realize my life is much less interesting than other people's--but I hope this will help me spice it up. Please stay tuned for the day to day activities of the Jonesboro Selby's.

To catch everyone up.....

So far this year we have had a BIG year. In Feburary, Toby opened up his own Mutual of Omaha (know here to for as MOO). Toby knew that eventually he would move out on his own, but we didn't know it would be so soon. The move has been GREAT for him and has worked out better than we could have planned.

In May, we marked our first anniversary. Only 49 more years left on the contract!!! Just kidding. We celebrated like any good Arkansans and headed to the Redneck Rivera--Branson, MO. We then headed on a MOO reward trip to Cancun Mexico. We finally got to see some of the Mayan ruins that we missed last time we were in Mexico. Those Mayans were SMART!!!

In June, June 2nd as a matter of fact I "celebrated" my 4th Nestleversary. I moved to Jonesboro at little over 4 years ago. Who knew I would stay for 4 years....and beyond. The only thing that a 4 year employee gets at Nestle is 4 helium ballons, a card, and one year closer to more vacation. I also celebrated my 25th birthday on June 5th. I was born June 5, 1981--yes I know that it doesn't add up, but trust me I am 25.

So we will see how the rest of the year goes. I'll keep you posted.

Chichen Itza, Mayan Ruin

A Mexican Cenote--An Underground Sinkhole

Cancun, Mexico