::our.little.corner::

Try to start again?

2009-07-02T10:30:00.001-05:00

If anyone ever checks this thing, I'm going to try to start blogging again. Don't hold your breath. If anyone is reading this 30 days or more after the post, let me know.

sigh

2008-04-16T20:56:00.000-05:00

I'm tired of trying to keep up with blogging. the end.

Our daily commute

2008-03-05T21:49:00.001-06:00

Just thought I'd remind ya'll of what our daily scenic view is like.

Our Yearly Update

2007-12-24T14:49:00.000-06:00

It probably seems that way! We really are here, but this will probably be the trend for awhile. Work, school, church - who has time to blog?! :) We are doing very well - And as you can tell, A day off from work is about the only time we have to sit down. Josh is busy in the kitchen making pies, rolls, and lots of other yummy things for our Christmas dinner with the family.
Ellie is enjoying school, and is already wanting to go back after a few days off! She takes a dance class after school once a week and loves it. She's very into painting and coloring and drawing lately. She wants to know how to spell everyone's names. She can't wait for Santa to come tonight, neither can we!
I'm loving my job as a receptionist at a gynecologist's office. I get to sit in a cubicle in the back of the office with my headset just answering phones and scheduling! I love it! All of the doctors are Christians, we are a pro-life office, and one of the doctors, Dr. Roy Stringfellow, works very closely with Focus On The Family. If you listen to their daily broadcasts, he is on the air occasionally with Dr. Dobson for various discussions. One thing is for sure, I've learned a lot about female issues, so if anyone has any questions, I'd probably know the answer! :)
Josh is doing very well in his job, and we have been able to lead worship at The World Prayer Center, a 24 hour prayer, praise, and worship center connected to New Life Church. Josh has had the opportunity to lead worship about 5 or 6 times in past few months. It's been a great experience, and he's been asked to lead more in the future.
We recently made a trip home for my brother's wedding and Thanksgiving. It was great to be back in Indiana with family! Colorado Springs is feeling more and more like home all the time, and we are happy to say that this is the first time in seven years that we have been able to put the Christmas tree up in the same house for two years in a row! This is now officially the place we've lived the longest. Almost two years!
We hope and pray that everyone is having a great Christmas season. We do check everyone else's blogs, we're just really bad at updating our own! Leave us a little note to tell that you stopped by!

Ellie lost her first tooth!

2007-09-15T11:51:00.000-05:00

Killers live in Mexico

2007-08-29T18:08:00.000-05:00

My conversaton with Ellie on the way home from school, as we drive past a huge American flag.
Ellie: Mommy! I can say the flag thing!
Me: Go for it!
Ellie: I pledge allegiance to the flag, of the United States of a miracle. And to....... justice for all! (she did say the whole thing)
Me: Awesome! That's great! And where do you put your hand when you say it?
Ellie: On your heart, so you can talk to God before you go to heaven and die.
Me:..mmmm.. ok....
Ellie:Mommy? Where do killers live?
Me: umm... I don't know? A lot of places? You do know that people don't die just from being killed by someone?
Ellie: I think they live in Mexico. Yep, Mexico.
Me: (trying not to snort because I'm laughing so hard) Well... sometimes!

Ellie and Mom

2007-08-16T10:38:00.000-05:00

I took this the other day, Ellie was in a silly mood.

Ellie's First Day of School!

2007-08-13T12:20:00.000-05:00

Ellie's first day of Kindergarten started great!! We got to the school, where there were hundreds of kids gathered around the front doors looking for their teachers holding signs with their names. We found her class, and the principal had the older kids "clap in" the kindergartners. It was the cutest thing. We followed Ellie's teacher, Ms. Davis, up to the Kindergarten playground, and hung her backpack and snack bag up on a hook. All the kids got name tags. Ellie asks me, "Mommy, are you leaving now?" And I said, "No, I'll be here for a few minutes." She proceeds to say, "You can go now! You have to go!" This is so funny, because it's almost identical to what I said to my mom the first day of preschool. I remember it vividly. All the kids gathered around on the carpet and Ms. Davis had all the kids sing two songs, "Twinke, Twinkle Little Star" and "The Itsy Bitsy Spider". She played her guitar one song. Then she read a book called "The Kissing Hand" about a little raccoon who was afraid to go to school, so his mom kissed his hand and told him that if he missed her, he could kiss his hand and he would feel like she was close. Then she said goodbye to all the parents, and Ellie ran up and gave me a hug and said, "Have fun today, Mommy!" And then I left! I couldn't have asked for anything better. It's so weird being home by myself. I'm not used to it! It's GREAT!! This morning couldn't have been more perfect.

Unexpected changes - Big blessings!

2007-08-07T09:20:00.000-05:00

Kindergarten starts in 6 days. We have the school supplies, we've ordered a backpack with her initials on it. We have all the info. But I'm still nervous! I feel so unprepared!!
However, a few things have happened that have lessened that concern. I left my full time job last Thursday - completely unexpected, and under the impression that I already had a great part time job waiting for me! I found out late Friday night that the new job is on hold - indefinitely. Ok, faith! Time to kick in! I had been praying about being home with Ellie when she starts school, about how great it would be to have a few days with her at home before she goes. It was all just in the back of my head... and now it's reality! I didn't like my job at all, and had prayed forever about a solution. I truly think this is an answer to prayer. I have a total peace about it all, and although I know it will challenging to figure out finances until I hear about this possible part time job. I'm loving being at home with my big girl until Monday! We have an "All-School Dress Rehearsal" this Friday, where she gets to meet her teacher and see her classroom. I think that will put my mind at ease as well!
I'm excited about catching up with all my friends in blogger land!! I think I'm back for now.. : )

Risen from the dead...

2007-05-28T10:08:00.000-05:00

YES - We're here! The only reason I'm blogging today is because I actually have a day OFF! Working full time and starting a new business on the side takes up a lot of time. I'm sure you're drawing blanks and looks of confusion. I'm (Cammie) working full time at an ear nose & throat specialist's office. I've started a business venture that has proved to be a good decision! I've become a consultant for BeautiControl. Never heard of it? That's ok. It's not what you think. It's at-home spas. I go into women's homes and they invite all their girlfriends and have a night or afternoon of being pampered and relaxed and whatever. I'm doing very well, and Josh is my cheerleader and business manager!
Ellie graduated from preschool last week, and now it's Kindergarten in the fall. She's very excited. I'm trying to adjust to the fact that my baby is now a little girl and she'll be in SCHOOL - real school - in the fall. I have to go buy school supplies...
The past few months have been like a tornado, but we're hanging in there! Drop us a line when you can!

Bad Mexicans! No beer for you!

2007-04-09T22:48:00.001-05:00

Evil beer for evil people.
Originally uploaded by ellybeth.

This was taken by one of my flickr friends in Walmart... Way to reach 'em!

Happy 5th Birthday, Ellie!

2007-03-13T22:59:00.001-05:00

Happy 5th Birthday, Ellie!
Originally uploaded by Cammiebeth.

Just a few highlights from the little party...

Um.... yeah.

2007-03-13T22:58:00.003-05:00

Um.... yeah.
Originally uploaded by Cammiebeth.

Are there really words?

Like father, like son

2007-03-13T22:58:00.001-05:00

Like father, like son
Originally uploaded by Cammiebeth.

And his dad plays with Barbies.

Birthday Presents!

2007-03-13T22:57:00.001-05:00

TOYS!!!
Originally uploaded by Cammiebeth.

Our squirt is getting bigger!

My new 'do

2007-02-04T16:11:00.000-06:00

My new 'do
Originally uploaded by Cammiebeth.

Please pray!

2007-01-19T18:45:00.000-06:00

Please be praying for Josh Buck! I've put a link to their church website for updates.

www.greenhouseministries.org

2007-01-17T17:57:00.000-06:00

Oh yeah. It's back.

Little Family

2007-01-16T15:27:00.000-06:00

Just thought I'd put a new family pic up. Nothing exciting going on here, just freezing our behinds off and trying to dig out!

Happenings

2006-12-20T12:39:00.001-06:00

We had an exciting weekend in early December! Josh, Ellie and I traveled to Indiana and Ohio for a wedding for a close friend, then went to see friends and family. Here a few highlights!

Grandma Spelbring and Ellie

Grandma Jean and Ellie

Uprooted giant pine tree on the road from the 200 mph winds! (Ok, maybe 70mph.)

Emma, our friends Sara and Jamie's 3 year old daughter. She is too adorable for
words.

Ellie and my mom and dad's ginormous black cat. The cat didn't care at all, he just laid back and drooled. (He really does drool.)

Our friend Bethany and her boyfriend, Johann. Bethany is like our little sister, we are very close friends with her parents, Pam and Dave. She is a very talented flute and piccolo player!

The whole reason for our trip! To sing at our friend Kim's wedding. Now I just need to get a picture of us WITH the beautiful bride!

It's Christmastime!

2006-11-26T22:58:00.000-06:00

We decorated today! Ellie has been begging us for a few days to get the tree out and decorate it, she even made up a little song about it. She is definitely the entertainment around here.

Un-Moving

2006-11-26T22:51:00.000-06:00

We had a lot of empty boxes to get rid of... after unpacking them. We found this was the most efficient way. I hand Ellie a box, she throws it over, Josh takes them to the dumpster. It's all about teamwork.

Playing around

2006-11-26T22:47:00.000-06:00

Just a few pictures of Ellie playing around!

Thanksgiving

2006-11-26T22:37:00.000-06:00

We spent a wonderful Thanksgiving with Josh's old friends, Scott and Deena Evans! They were his youth leaders at Tipton Trinity Wesleyan when he was in high school and we actually ran into them at Wal-Mart a few weeks ago and they so graciously invited us over for Thanksgiving dinner. It turns out they live just a few minutes down the road from us. We had a great time. Josh was able to catch up and reminisce and I was able to make some new friends! Josh made the rolls, as you can see, and he was watching over them intently so they would turn out just right!

Play the "Keep up with Josh and Cammie" game!

2006-11-17T16:07:00.000-06:00

It's hard to do! Our life changes daily! The latest news is that we are NOT moving to Indiana. And we are very ok with that. All I can tell you is that the Lord changed our hearts. Plain and simple. We get to fly home in a few weeks to sing at a wedding of a dear friend, then a few weeks later we're driving home for Christmas. Tonight Josh and I get to have a date night - first one in about 5 months. We're going to see Casino Royale and Josh is surprising me with the restaurant! I love surprises!! Christmas is coming fast and we're trying to keep up and not let it come before we knew what hit us. All in all, we're great, we're happy to be staying in Colorado Springs, and can anyone say "UN-packing Party?!"

Happy October

2006-10-26T12:46:00.000-05:00

Never had a blizzard in October. Like before Halloween. We were without power for about an hour and a half, and we're having an awesome snow day.

It's Official

2006-10-18T15:30:00.000-05:00

Moving truck: $500
Packing tape and supplies: $12
163 boxes from Wal-Mart: free
Boxes and various plastic tubs stacked to the ceiling - Priceless
This is the official sign of moving for us! Approximately 4 weeks and 4 days to go!

Fall in the Rockies

2006-10-01T22:16:00.000-05:00

Yesterday we drove around in the mountains to enjoy the fall color. Only one, just yellow, but it was gorgeous. There is a little old mining town that is in the middle of it all called Cripple Creek, and it is a casino wonderland. The town can't be more than 1,000 people, but it sure is busy! The first picture below is overlooking the town of Cripple Creek. Off in the distance is a shadow that looks like clouds.... but it's actually another range of snowcapped mountains. It was amazing.

Back Home Again... in Indiana!

2006-09-26T22:51:00.000-05:00

So I got a phone call about a week ago at work from Josh. And he says, "So, that job in Indy is mine if I want it." This is the hardest secret I've had to keep in a long time! I know it's only been a week, but you have no idea how badly I've wanted to create this post, and today we got the official "ok" to do so! Some of you know and a lot of you dont. So.. we're moving back to Indiana! There is a position in Josh's company (Ingersoll Rand Security Technologies) that has been open for months now. Just so happens that Josh is more than qualified for the position, and they offered it to him. We had to think about it for about a minute and a half, and prayed about it for a few days. Josh decided to accept, and today he got his official offer letter from HR. We've been house-hunting online and we've been sending grandparents and parent to Indy to search for us! God has been so evident in all of this, it's amazing some of the things that have happened to confirm that this is the right decision. We are so excited to be back home, but on the other hand it's very bittersweet as we leave behind a whole slew of people we've made lifelong relationships with here and in Kansas. We love you so much!!! We are planning on moving the week of Thanksgiving, so prayer would be much appreciated as we househunt (without stepping foot INTO the home) and figure out all the details! We'll definitely keep you updated!

Is this normal?

2006-09-25T23:44:00.000-05:00

Ellie can dance on top of her toes. I know it's hard to tell from the picture, but she's not holding onto anything, and when Josh and I saw her do this, we thought it was pretty cool. She's not on her tip-toes, she is actually standing on her toes. Are we over-reacting? We thought it was interesting.

Ellie's First Movie Theatre Experience!

2006-09-16T10:03:00.000-05:00

I keep forgetting to post this pictures! Ellie had her first trip to the movie theatre a few months ago to see "Cars"! We had a blast. She loved it! She called the "big" movie. Now every time we pass the theatre, she says, "There's the big movie feater! We watched the big Cars movie dere!" Josh thought it was a little silly to document the first movie theatre experience, but I think it's a milestone! And this is no movie theatre that Josh or I grew up with... this is the 20-plex that looks like an old movie house inside.. gold cherubs staring down at you, marble floors... it's amazing! it looks like a palace from the road! Ellie used to call it the "castle" before we took her there. It's a complex with a ton of stores... nothing like we had growing up! It was great!

Waiting in front the of the theatre. What you can't see is that there is a huge fountain to the left of Ellie that looks like a regular sidwalk, but the fountain comes out of the sidewalk! It is so cool!

Waiting to get popcorn and Coke! What's a movie without those two important things?!

EATING the popcorn and coke... They even had special booster seats with cupholders for kids!

Having a great time watching the movie!

I think she lasted about an hour after the movie started. It was still fun! We saw it again when Grandma and Papaw Buckley came to visit!

My last day

2006-09-01T20:41:00.000-05:00

Today was my last day at The Surgery Center! I'm starting a new job on Tuesday at Wells Fargo just a few blocks from Ellie's school! I'm super excited, but really sad to leave lots of people I've grown to love. Luckily, we all still live in the same city, so I will see them often! It was a good day.

Susan, whose last day was also today!

Lindy and me... and yes, were are both standing! 6'3 I think?!

Margarita.... yes, she gets teased all the time.

Robin

Teresa

John... he wouldn't smile for me, so I just took a picture of him eating. That's fair, right?!

My good friend Penny! I'm going to miss her a lot. We spent every afternoon from 3:00 to 5:00 together at the front desk! Lots of good talks!

Diane, Margarita and Susan

My nurse friends L to R clockwise: Vicki, Julie, Denise, Craig, and Renata

I'll miss all of you!

No promises

2006-08-31T19:47:00.000-05:00

Yeah, I suck at keeping this thing up lately. Will you forgive me and be really patient with me? Turns out we're not building the big fancy townhome. Oh, we could have, for a whopping $1500 a month. Now to you big city people, that's normal. But out here it's outrageous. We're going to see what happens. We're not upset, it just means a little waiting. Ellie started preschool for the 2nd year this week. I'm bracing myself for the fact in one short year she'll be headed off to Kindergarten. I hope this year goes slow! I promise I'll post something exciting soon with some pictures! In the meantime...

UPDATEUPDATE*UPDATE

2006-08-08T21:09:00.000-05:00

Ok, ok! I know it's been awhile! We work, people! Just kidding. We do have a major update with pictures to follow VERY soon. All I have to do is upload them to the computer. WE ARE BUILDING A HOUSE!!!! Actually it's a townhome, but we are so excited!! Josh and I were looking at buying a starter home, but has anyone looked at the prices of homes in Colorado Springs lately?! Definitely not what we're used to back in good ole' Indiana. Quite the opposite. The homes that were in our price range were quite the fixer-uppers. And I know you're all shocked to know that Josh is not the handiest guy. Mowing the lawn, if that, is as good as it gets. We started looking around, and we found these townhomes that are just being built around the corner from where we live now, in our price range!! We are building a 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath that should be done the first week of October! Yep, from start to finish is about 72 days. Crazy, huh? We got to go to the design center last week and pick out our carpet, countertops, tile, all that fun stuff. I'll post pictures of the progress very soon! So far, the frame work is done, and we have shingles on our roof! We'll keep you posted! In the meantime, here's a link to the floorplan and all that good stuff!

Click here for our new house!

Ahhh.. that's better.

2006-07-14T21:37:00.000-05:00

I don't know about you, but I everytime I logged onto our blog, I jumped because I forgot those pictures were on there. No, I don't have any new stuff to tell.. we're just livin' life! Here's a better picture to tide you over.

One More Thing

2006-06-20T23:10:00.000-05:00

Josh and I discovered PhotoBooth on our new MacBook thanks to Nate Lamb. This is just a taste of what fun it is.

Don't give up on us!

2006-06-20T22:43:00.000-05:00

Life is CRAZY right now. I have tons of pictures to put up. Honestly, all we do is get up, go to work, come home, collapse for a few minutes, make dinner, hang out as a family, go to bed, and do it all over again. We're boring people right now. The most exciting thing that's happened is that we bought 2 new cars. Before you get all crazy, let me tell you what happened. Basically, we needed a second car because Josh and I work on opposite ends of town and it was just nuts trying to do it with one car. After looking at a payment on a used car with no warranty, we decided it would be worth it to just buy a new car. We got an '06 Honda Civic. 2 dr. coupe, kind of a grayish-brown metallic. We got such a great interest rate on that car, we decided to trade our Mazda for an '07 Honda Fit. It's orange. No, I'm not crazy, I love it. I promise I'll post pictures soon! In other news, we love our church, and our first weekend on the Worship team is July 2nd, and my parents will be here. Perfect timing. I think that's about it... so keep checking back, and sooner or later I'll have some exciting things to look at!

The Big Night

2006-05-21T00:01:00.000-05:00

The tears... the laughter, hoping you just raised 'em right. Yes, it's Preschool graduation. We, the proud parents looked on from the side of the pews to get a good view.. she is only 3'1, you know. I've never seen so much chaos and crowding and elbowing to get picutres of 2 through 5 year olds singing "The Marker Song" and "Sharing With My Friends" in all my life. Ellie has graduated from a Cookie Monster to a Teddy Bear. Halfway through next semester she'll advance to the Mickey Mousers, because in fall of '07 she'll be off to... oh my word. Kindergarten.

Singing

Ellie and her teacher, Miss Renee'

More Singing!

You know you want one, too

2006-05-08T20:47:00.002-05:00

I found this picture of Ellie from a few months ago in Kansas. Isn't this every kid's dream sucker?! On another note, we've just been busy!! We leave the house at 8:00 in the morning and don't get home until around 6:15. But you know what? I love every minute of it! I feel like the official every day commuter. Sometimes I even stop off for Starbuck's after I drop off Ellie at Preschool. It's good to be "back".

God's Providence Exists

2006-04-20T19:51:00.000-05:00

I know to any "good" Christian out there this statement seems a little obvious. However, I would argue that many of us, if we were really honest, at some point(s) doubt the truth of this statment...this is Josh, by the way.

Unless you are a new "our.little.corner" reader you are aware of the life situation we are in the middle of right now. For those of you who are unaware...here is the short of it. I was serving as the Director of Worship and Media at a church and was not extended another year to serve.

I am the first to admit that we have made some pretty poor choices since we have been married, as far as jobs go and we have been a bit "trigger-happy" with the resignation letters and the decisions of where to go. However, this time we had spent extended time in prayer and in the Word just seeking out the Lord's direction and made the decision that God had placed us in the church we were serving in for a reason and we just didn't feel the "release" from ministry there. Unfortunately, something else happened and we ended up in, what we felt, was the same place we left just a year before...jobless, penny-less and "hopeless."

It is said that hindsight is 20/20 and I would have to agree. The last few days have been days of major introspection and have been filled with many moments of destroying walls that I had used to partition different parts of my life and person to make myself and everyone around me believe that I was a different person than I really am. For those who have been through this type of a process you know how painful and emotional these times can be. I really questioned whether God really did have a "plan" for each of us or if He just put us here and let us run around likes rats in a maze until we ran into a wall a little too hard and "left the maze."

Earlier this week, though, I believe that God's arm extended and his hand guided those people that held the keys to my near future. Many of you are not aware that over the last several years I have taken to Graphic and Web Design and have gotten pretty decent at it. Anyway, I was not sure how to utilize these skills in the corporate world without the training and experience that is really necessary to get into this career field. However, on Monday I was extended and offer making 2-3 times more money than I have ever made in my life. Not that money is everything. However, for where I am I needed God to prove Himself in a very practical way, which He did.

Many good-intentioned people out there give people advice that "God is in Control" and that "He will lead you where He wants you". However, when you have no money and little food in your house the last thing that will build your faith is to hear someone say "Sometimes blessings are not physical blessings". In that moment is when, at least for me, that I need to see God miraculously come through.

I understand that my attitude toward this may be a bit selfish. However, this is part of the "new me." I am not going to say what people want to hear...I am going to be honest. And, for me, God had to come through in a big way.

I understand that it is not good "blog etiquette" to post so long. However, I just needed to say these things. Maybe it will help encourage someone reading it. Maybe it will just go out like a vapor in the vast web of the internet. I just needed to reaffirm to myself and anyone else that God is interested in even the most intricate details of our life and I need to hold onto that.

Blessings until next year when I post again;)

Easter

2006-04-20T00:04:00.000-05:00

We spent the day with Josh's family at their house. Ellie had a great time hunting eggs and twirling around in her dress!

And... Praise GOD!! Josh also received some great news yesterday - he got a great job with Ingersol-Rand doing technical writing! It is a great opportunity for Josh to get his foot in the door with graphic design. Thank You Jesus!! He starts on Monday. We're so excited. This also means that I really only need to work part-time, and Ellie can go to preschool and get to play with other kids and learn! God is so GOOD!

Almost One Month

2006-04-14T20:07:00.000-05:00

She's loving her room

Eating yogurt at the table

So after a month, we've settled in quite nicely. It doesn't quite feel like home yet, but we know that it will in time. Work is pouring in for Josh, plus he had a job interview last week that went really well and we should hear about it early next week. I haven't found a job yet, but I've been temping for a few weeks. We know that God already has provided a place of work for both of us. Ellie is doing well, just bored to tears! She needs some kids to play with, which will come when she starts preschool. We found a great church! It's called "The Gathering" and we love it. It feels like home and we've met a few people already. We really hope to get involved with a Life Group or something soon. Josh has already talked to the Worship guy about getting involved after awhile. Overall, we're doing well.

Happy Birthday To Me

2006-04-05T14:29:00.000-05:00

Just thought I'd let you know today's my birthday. No gifts, please. Just cash.

New Apartment Pics

2006-03-25T10:10:00.000-06:00

I just decided a link would be easier.

CLICK HERE

Wake-Up Call

2006-03-24T09:04:00.000-06:00

Every morning, Josh or I have to take Samantha (the dog) outside to ... well, you know. It was a beautiful morning, and I'm glad nobody was out because there I was in my pajama pants, yellow Crocs, and hair a disheveled mess. Samantha is such a finicky dog. She has to "walk it out" before she can go. It's not a rule, but it's appreciated if you pick up after your dog. They even have little baggie stations. This morning there were no baggies. I took Samantha back upstairs, and I could have just left it, nobody would have known it my dog, lots of people just leave it and don't pick up. Bad tennants. So after I brought her back upstairs, I grabbed a plastic bag and went back down to pick it up. I saw a little white Toyota pull into a carport, which I know was not theirs, because nobody parks there. Out pops a little oriental woman who was way too perky for 7:30 in the morning. "Good morning!" she said. She didn't seem to mind that I was holding a plastic bag full of poop. "Hi," I responded as I very quickly darted towards the stairs. "How are you this morning?" "Fine, thanks" just walk. Just walk. FAST. "Can I talk to you for a minute?" "Uh, I'm on my way to work." Ok, not really a lie because I do have an interview with a temp agency this morning. "I just want to show you a couple of magazines." Great. Not only is she perky, but she's a Jehovah's witness. "These magazine are about a loving marriage and how after you say 'I do' sometimes it doesn't mean anything! Can I give them to you?" What do I say?! Do I slam her with the gospel in my polka dotted pj pants and messy hair and yellow crocs?! "Uh, my husband and I are Christians and he's a pastor." Ok, still not completey a lie, but a great out for my sticky situation. After all, I was in a hurry to get upstairs to check my email and drink my green tea before I got ready for my interview. "OK! Thank you! Have a nice day!" "Uh-huh"... as I dart towards the stairs, dog poop bag in my hand and yellow crocs on my feet.

We're Here

2006-03-21T20:55:00.001-06:00

Our move went great, and we're completely unpacked. We get our new sofa on Thursday, and we're loving our extremely small space. The job search continues for me, I didn't get the job at the dentist's office. I'm ok with it, I just need a job!!! Soon!!! Please be praying that I'll find the perfect job soon, and that work will start pouring in for Josh! On the upside, Ellie is adjusting very well, besides the fact that she's made her Kansas friends into imaginary friends. I think I've had to tell Ryan to put his shoes on about 12 times today. More pictures will be coming soon! We just need to hang up our pictures then take some snapshots. We'll keep you posted!

Make that 2 more DAYS...

2006-03-16T19:54:00.000-06:00

Yeah, we're moving on Saturday. You should all get an email with our new contact info. If you didn't, it's because I don't have your email address! So give it to me! Anyway, to make a long story short, I had an interview last Tuesday morning at a dentist's office for a receptionist job making KILLER money, and they may want me to start THIS Tuesday! Praise God! And thanks for praying!!! We decided to go ahead and make arrangements to move this weekend, because if we waited until I found out about the job, it would be too late to rent a moving truck, get help, etc. I'll find out for sure on Monday, I think. I have to go in that day and have a final interview with the last doctor, then they will make a decision, although I was told to "be prepared to work that week." Even if I don't get the job, I can get one with a temp agency no problem. So there's the update and I'll let you know if I have a job next week!

3 more weeks!

2006-03-13T00:00:00.002-06:00

We've been in Colorado Springs all weekend gearing up for our move. After much prayer and asking for God's direction, we feel like this is the best decision for now. We are so exicted to be in the mountains near friends (Kayla Rotz!!) and family! We absolutely love it here. We found an apartment! I found a small picture of the apartment community that will soon be our home. It's a 965 sq. ft. 2 bedroom apartment on a corner (more windows and more light) with a small view of the mountains! It has a great pool, a big playground for Ellie, and lots of kids for her to play with. I'm also happy to tell you it's directly across the street from a Starbucks! You know where I'll be before my morning commute to wherever I'll work!

I've also been jobhunting, and I don't know what my luck is yet. I'm praying that God will provide the perfect job at the perfect location. I've found tons of opportunities, just haven't heard anything yet. If you think about, pray for that for us! We also got the chance to see Kayla again, and we are so pumped about living close to her and hanging out ALL the time! 1st American Idol party, our place, April 4th!! We've had a great weekend and can't wait to actually pull in with our moving truck! We'll keep you updated of any new developments!

Ellie's 4th Birthday

2006-03-06T18:36:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Ellie!

Our Last Sunday

2006-02-22T09:25:00.000-06:00

.... is this Sunday. Josh talked with our pastor on Monday morning and he told Josh that he's not recommending him for another year. He gave us two options - stay until the end of April and resign then, or resign immediately with two months severence pay but be allowed to live in the house until the end of April. We've decided to resign immediately.
This came as kind of a shock to us, even though we've been unhappy for quite some time. Not unhappy with our church per say, but our ministry philosophy was just about as far from our pastor's as east is from the west. When our pastor talked to Josh, he was very nice and said he had actually lost sleep over this. We are not upset with him at all, he has been nothing but nice to us and has always wanted the best for us. We had decided that we would stay here until God really did tell us to leave. No looking, no complaining, just serving and trying to reach outside of our church walls in those relationships with the people that really need Jesus. After praying for clear direction for quite awhile, we got it on Monday morning. We are very thankful for this! Anyway, Josh just got contracted by a company in Colorado Springs to do web design, so that will be bringing in some extra income. Right now we're thinking about just moving to Colorado Springs since the design place is there, and Josh's dad and stepmom live there. We're not making any solid plans, we're really going to take these next few months and really seek God's face and ask what He wants us to do next. We feel like this is a fresh start and anything is possible! And since Josh can do the web design thing from basically anywhere, we could move anywhere we wanted to!
In a way we are relieved, we prayed for clear direction for so long, and we got it! Thank You Lord for letting us hit a brick wall to see Your plan!! How much clearer could it be?! I wish all things happened this way! Another plus is that I can still keep working at the bank until we move wherever. I love working there. I've made some really close friends there. We really are at peace with all of this and know it's for the best. So we get to start another adventure and we are excited to see where God takes us!

Mandisa!

2006-02-16T23:39:00.000-06:00

Don't you just want to shout it? Ok, Josh and I are American Idol junkies, in case you didn't know. We DO NOT miss an episode, and we can usually spot the top 3 before Hollywood week. One of our top picks is Mandisa Hundley, the AWESOME black girl that basically gave Simon the gospel on last night's episode when they told her she was in the top 24. Guess what I found out about her today? She is on the Praise Team that travels with Beth Moore for her Living Proof Live events!! Is that not the coolest thing EVER?! Can we pick 'em or what?! Mark my word, she will be in the top 3. If not, I'll buy all of you a Coke. Somehow.

Tommy Walker's Breakthrough DVD

2006-02-11T09:55:00.000-06:00

Here is a clip of the Tommy Walker concert we were involved in at Saddleback last summer. The DVD comes out SOON!!
http://www.tommywalker.net/saints_sm.mov
If you look really close, you can see both Josh and I in some spots. I can't wait for this to come out!

I thought Ellie was bad!

2006-02-09T21:24:00.000-06:00

Ellie colored orange highlighter on her face... but Jenn Swift brought THIS picture to my attention! I guess I should be glad it was Ellie's face rather than the dog since she has no siblings!

What?!

2006-02-08T17:22:00.000-06:00

I've been reading through Proverbs, and here are a few that I just don't get. Any takers?

"Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when dreams come true, there is life and joy." Pr. 13:12
"An empty stable stays clean, but no income comes from an empty stable." Pr. 14:4
Maybe I'm not thinking hard enough!

Is this what early creativity looks like?

2006-01-25T21:05:00.000-06:00

Zoom Zoom

2006-01-11T21:03:00.000-06:00

Bye-bye Malibu......

Hello Mazda 3S!

Christmas

2006-01-02T09:53:00.000-06:00

'Bout time, right? Here's a peek of Ellie's 4th Christmas.

Christmas Eve

Opening gifts from Grandma and Grandpa Buckley

Santa visited our house!

Opening presesnts

Our tired girl trying on her Belle dress

Gettin' back in the groove

2005-12-12T22:51:00.000-06:00

We are finally back into our normal routine and VERY glad to be home. We hit the ground running. Josh was priveleged to be a part of an event that was birthed out of some local men, including pastors and lay people, for a desire for a Promise Keepers-like thing, only local. The nearest one to us was in Denver, and after going, the men didn't want to wait months or another year to go. They wanted something now! It became what they are now calling "The Gathering" and they are official Promise Keepers Ambassadors. God moved in a way they never expected, and Josh was very honored to be the worship leader for the event. That happened the weekend we got back, and I started working the day after we got home. Needless to say, Christmas has kind of crept up on us, and we are not done shopping yet!! Ellie had her first Christmas program on Sunday night, she did really well. She wanted to hog the mic at one point. I wonder why? :) She's really fun this year with all the Christmas stuff! She couldn't wait to put up our tree, and every morning when she wakes up she says, "Santa's coming." She is so excited. We have a nativity candle on our breakfast bar, and Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus are in the middle with the wise men, shepherds, etc, surrounding them. The wise men are carrying their various things, and there is plate with gold coins that one wise man is carrying. Ellie informed that they were cookies that the wise men were bringing to baby Jesus. She's also informed me that her friend Chloe's mom is taking them to the North Pole. I wonder if Mikela (Chloe's mom) knows about this! Sorry it took us so long to get back to the world of blogging, but here are some pictures to document what's been going on! Hope you're all having a great Christmas season.

Ellie absolutely loves the Christmas tree, she couldn't wait to get it up and help decorate.

Can you see her?! Her first live performance! She's in the front in the white dress! I see a great future here..

Ellie on the plane on the way to Indiana

The good news is...

2005-11-29T23:54:00.000-06:00

I got to spend Thanksgiving with my family. We're home now, we arrived around 3 pm back to Kansas today. They removed the tube last Friday morning, (and just in case you're wondering, it feels like someone is sucking your insides out with a vacuum as they pull it out) and then I went shopping all day in Indy! : ) We flew to Col. Springs last night and drove home today. All I should have to do is follow up with my regular doctor in a few weeks. I ended up having another procedure done called an ERCP scope, where they put me slightly under and put a scope down my esophogus and looked for whatever might be causing the extra "stuff". They found nothing, but put a stint in to help the drainage flow a little easier. If it doesn't ... (clearing throat sound) "pass", they will have to take it out in about 6 - 8 weeks. 2 days later the tube came out, and they let me come home. Brock - as far as pictures... I still have a hole in my right side that has to close if you'd like to see! JUST KIDDING. We are relieved to be home and I go back to work tomorrow. Summary: my one week trip with Ellie turned into a 2 1/2 week ordeal full of doctor appointments and a very inconvenient tube in my side, Josh flying out, and then forgetting how to turn my DVD player on when I got home. (no joke) Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers! I'm so thankful to get back to normal life!

There are simply no words

2005-11-18T08:08:00.000-06:00

So, Ellie and I landed in Indy on the 9th at 12:45pm. I was in the ER at 11:30 that night with excruciating stomach pain, which turned out to be my gall bladder. I had surgery the next morning. Not 24 hours after being on the soil of my homeland. My gall bladder was a mess, I'll spare you the details, but Josh ended up joining us on this fun adventure. He flew out this past Monday. The good news is, we'll be with our family for Thanksgiving. I'm having some strange complications, and my next Dr. appointment is on Monday. They aren't letting me leave until I'm better. Who knows when I'll return to Kansas. I feel ok, but I do have a drainage tube in my side.. not normal. Doesn't feel right. I hope to get that taken out on Monday. If I'm not better by Monday, they might have to do another surgery. I'll give details if they're wanted, in an email, I'm sure since a lot of people just got squeamish with the term "drainage tube". To wrap it up, our Indiana trip is extended until further notice.

Old Friends and Great Coffee

2005-11-05T07:08:00.000-06:00

We are in Colorado Springs at the moment visiting family, friends, etc. My cousins are in Denver and we get the chance to spend some time with them today. Last night we got to spend several hours with KAYLA ROTZ!!! We live so close, and always forget to call when we're in town. We will forget no longer. We had coffee and talked for awhile at a cool little local spot, Pike's Perk. There will be one pic added soon. We had lots to talk about since it had been roughly 4 years since we had seen each other! (I was pregnant with Ellie the last time we got together.) It was so awesome to see you, Kayla! We WILL get together at Christmastime! I would also like to take this time to personally welcome Kayla to the blogging world! You will find her link to the right. Today we get to show my cousins, Tony and his wife Rett, around Colorado Springs. This is their first trip to Colorado, and what better city to spend it in?! Josh leaves later this afternoon to go home, and Ellie and I will be staying in the Springs until Wednesday morning when we fly home to Indiana for a week! This will be Ellie's first plane ride, and she is so excited. My friends lent me a portable DVD player, so that will be my lifesaver! Thanks Chris and Dara!! Well, if you didn't notice the time I'm writing this, it's 6:20 am and I've been up for an hour because I had so much coffee last night that I couldn't sleep. I swear I feel like I could do cartwheels right now. And I don't know how to do one.

Our humble beginnings

2005-10-30T14:31:00.000-06:00

Josh and I have been writing songs since we got back from Saddleback. We really felt like this was something God wanted us to do. This is our little "recording studio" in our living room. Quite the set up, huh? Some of our songs we've posted on our Delph Family Photos page where you can listen to them. We'd love feedback. Be brutally honest, and remember- we didnt' say they were GOOD songs!

She's a shoe girl

2005-10-27T16:26:00.000-05:00

And why shouldn't she be?! She's our daughter! I originally wanted to just take the picture of her in the cute dress, but she begged me to take a picture of the shoes. So here they are, forever captured in a picture.
Life has been pretty normal around here. I started working at the bank about a month ago, just 3 days a week, and I love it. The girls are great, and the atmosphere is SO laid back. Ellie is having a great time with Shana and the kids and learning tons in preschool. She can now use scissors. I don't know if that's good or bad. I know I said she was potty trained a few months back, but now she's OFFICIALLY potty trained, if you know what I mean. (without me being too gross for those of you who know what I'm talking about.)
We've really been getting to know a lot more people here in town. Josh has been spending a lot of time with our youth pastor, and he's introduced us to several other pastors here in town. It's been good. We recently saw the 3rd Left Behind movie at one of the Baptist churches in town, and it was a great way to meet more people in our community.
The coolest thing happened yesterday while I was at work. I'm not trying to be all reflective and cheesy, I'm just telling you a cool story. At our bank, we have desks where you sit down, not a counter that you walk up to. A rough looking teenage guy came to my desk and wanted to take some money out of his account, and I had begun the transaction. Out of the blue he says "Yeah, I just got out of rehab." I did not know what to say, but obviously he was reaching out for something. I said, "That's great, that is so awesome, good for you!" He then went on to tell me that it was going to be tough, trying to get his life in order, and what not. All this time I'm searching for the careful words to say to him, asking God to give me something to say to this guy without running him off by being the Christian crazy person. I swiveled around in my chair to see that our youth pastor (who used to be an addict of just about everything) was sitting in the bank. Immediately I said, "That's the guy you need to talk to, he'll help you in any way he can." To make this long story a little bit shorter, the kid (Tony) talked to Rick, and he was at youth group last night, jamming on his guitar with the guys. I've never felt so directly used by God. What are the chances that Tony would come to my desk and that Rick would be at the bank at the same time? I'm so thankful for God's divine timing and how He used me yesterday. Hope you didn't think that was lame.

Josh's Birthday Present

2005-10-19T15:05:00.000-05:00

Josh's birthday was September 7th.... and I have been meaning to put this up. We thought it would be a long, long time before he was able to purchase an instrument so coveted, so loved. The Taylor 110. He can only play in one key... but he's working on it! I'm so happy for him. It's an awesome guitar, and he's so proud! Even though I don't play, I was just as giddy as he was when we were in the store saying as casually as possible with no emotion, "Yeah.. I'll uh, take the Taylor I think." When inside we're both doing somersaults and jumping up and down clapping our hands like little kids at the toy store. It even makes me want to learn to play! Anyway, Happy Birthday to Josh (over a month ago) !

Sick & Tired

2005-10-11T13:45:00.000-05:00

Ellie has had the flu for a few days... she and Samantha took it easy last night on the couch!

.:|Josh's Thoughts|:.

2005-10-09T03:36:00.000-05:00

Hey guys. I know that I don't often contribute to the posts here on our family website. Sorry...my bad. I just wanted to let you know that I have a blog that I post some thoughts that I have periodically. You should be able to click on the title of this post to get to...but, just in case you cant...here is a link. I just posted some thoughts on it and would love some feedback!

Riding the mower with Daddy

2005-10-03T21:07:00.000-05:00

Ellie loves to help Daddy mow the lawn!

My daughter has friends

2005-09-28T10:22:00.000-05:00

Ellie and Chloe

I know it sounds funny, but I truly am amazed that my 3 year old has friends... she asks if they can come over and play, she wants to be around them. My little baby that I brought home from the hospital has grown and learned to talk, and dress herself, and is potty trained... and has a little group of friends. Is this where it all starts? I have found myself taking a step back and looking at the big picture... it seems like right now, at this moment in time.. this is who Ellie is. The 3 year old. The preschooler. It has just occured to me that she will get bigger. She will get older. And when she's 10, I won't be able to imagine her any older than she is. When she's 10, 11, 12, etc, 3 will seem a million miles away. Just the other day she wanted me to pretend to feed her a bottle from one of her baby dolls. I told her that she used to drink a bottle and that I would rock her to sleep. She kept arguing with me. "No, I not a baby! I'm Ellie!" It's so weird that these things only happened 2 years ago. Of course I remember them, but of course she doesn't. She has no clue what I'm talking about when I tell her how much she loved cereal and bananas in the morning, and how she would squirt baby food out of her mouth. She thinks I'm crazy. I guess it's all happening really fast, and before I know it she'll be 10, and I'll be telling her stories from when she was 3 and she won't remember any of it. So I guess I'll just embrace Ellie the 3 year old while I can, give all the hugs and kisses I can, and let her sit on my lap, pretend to do my hair, and let her tell me that she loves me all I can.

I got a job! And another one...

2005-09-20T15:46:00.000-05:00

No, I'm not driving a combine! Let me explain first how farming works out here. It's totally different than back home. Farmers out here own so much land that they have to hire custom harvesters to help them cut their corn, milo, and sunflowers. These custom harvesters travel all over the US harvesting for different farmers. They bring all their own equipment, their own men, their own trailers... it's crazy. The custom harvester I'm working for, Carl and Karen (great people) needed help with lunches and laundry. Karen has to get 15 lunch buckets packed and taken out to the fields everyday, so I'm helping her. It's quite fun. It's only 8am to 1pm everyday except Sunday, but I really do like it, I've learned a ton about farming! Here's the twist - I had an interview at First National Bank here in town about 2 1/2 weeks ago - I thought they forgot about me. That's why I took the job with Carl and Karen. Of course, the bank calls yesterday and wants to hire me! I've worked out the hours so that I can do both, and I start at the bank on Monday! Since harvest only lasts until the beginning of November, the people at the bank were very gracious in letting me work the hours out so I can continue to help Karen. Ellie's sitter will be my friend Shana, the same girl who teaches the preschool class in her home. God just seems to be working out all the details, and I am so thankful!

Ellie's First Day of Preschool

2005-09-01T21:57:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it. I'm taking "first day" pictures. Josh made fun of me. This is a milestone, don't you think?! Because we have no preschool teacher at the moment at our church, my good friend Shana is taking advantage of her Early Childhood Development degree and teaching Ellie, her son Cole, and her niece Chloe in her home. They are starting to work on an "All About Me" book, and have even learned new songs today! She had a great first day!

Schoolbox in hand with crayons, scissors and glue inside, she's ready!

The students - Chloe, Cole and Ellie (and Addison wanting to be part of it.) The classroom - Shana's kitchen!

Shana's adorable 15 month old daughter, Addison.

Fruit Loops and Annie

2005-08-29T09:31:00.000-05:00

What a great combination, right? I tried to put on Dora, Sesame Street, and the Wiggles. Nope, she wanted to watch Annie. And sing with her mouth full. You always wonder what your kids will be good at when they get older. I wonder if she'll really be a singer, or if this is just a toddler phase. She can sing on pitch, but she doesn't always get all the words. I do love it that she loves musicals! She'd rather watching singing and dancing anyday over a kid's show! I signed her up for dance classes for the fall! We're excited, I hope she can pay attention and follow directions. I'm currently in the process of shopping for ballet and tap shoes. We had a crazy weekend. Yesterday we had "Homecoming Sunday" at our church. It was pretty good. It's nice to return to your roots sometimes and be sentimental. Josh put together a 10 minute video of a pictoral history of the church. It was really cool to go through all the old pictures and understand how the church started, and see how far it's come. Our District Superintendent, Rick Hudgens (used to pastor at Sturgis Wesleyan in Michigan) came and preached. We got to spend some time with him and his wife, Sharon, at the pitch-in dinner after the service. We think they are a great couple, and really enjoyed getting to know them better. On Saturday, Josh and I worked ALL DAY. I clean the fellowship hall and classrooms once a week, and this was my longest day ever. We had a nasty clogged up toilet downstairs. I swear, someone exploded and then tried to clean it up with paper towels. The whole basement stunk, then we had to actually buy a special plumbing tool to get in unclogged! Luckily, my dad is a plumber, so he gave a us a crash course over the phone! Josh worked on the video and re-setting the stage all day. We are tired! I feel like a truck hit me today! My parents are coming to visit on Friday!! I am so excited!! We haven't seen them in 3 months, so I'm ready. They'll be here for a week, and 4 more days can't come soon enough! I'm really missing home this week, and so is Josh. (Just for all of you Richmond residents, did you hear me?! Josh MISSES RICHMOND!!) So their visit will be great, bringing some of home to us. That means lots of cleaning and getting the guest room ready! I better get started!

It's happening

2005-08-23T16:30:00.000-05:00

When Josh and I were at Saddleback, we really felt like God was telling us that He wanted us to do something big for Him. (Easy to feel that way after you've spent a week at Saddleback) When we got back, we almost immediately went to our district conference, where the "theme" seemed to be re-focusing your church, or re-starting your church. A few couples went along with us, and we were pleasantly surprised to find that they were hungry for much, much more. We knew that we couldn't leave the church... we've only been here for 6 months! We really do like it here, and we've met some amazing people and made some very good friends. God seemed to be putting people in our path who are all desiring the same thing - change. Not just a change in church, not just the music style, but a completely different change in ministry. Josh and I started praying, as did some of the other couples. After praying and talking and brainstorming, we thought it would be a great idea to have an alternative venue service. We would be our own church within the church, meet off-site, and develop a whole new ministry to offer to people in our community. There is nothing relevant or un-churchy near us, and that is what we are hungry for. So far, we have 14 people that we want to gather together as a "launch" team. Josh and our part time youth pastor approached our senior pastor today about this idea. We were very worried that he wouldn't be on board with it, because he thinks our church is just fine the way it is. He said he didn't feel the urgency that we do, but that doesn't mean that we don't feel it, or that he should discourage us just because he doesn't feel that way. He gave us permission to start meeting together as a group to pray and seek God's direction for this - PRAISE GOD!!! We feel this stirring, we know that God wants to do something huge, and we are ready to be used. Our 14 people will begin meeting together to pray, and we're going to do 40 days of prayer, and if they want, fasting a little bit. Josh is ordering copies of "Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire" for everyone, as that book is very relevant to our situation. I just wanted to share this and ask you to pray with us, and be happy with us! I'll keep you updated!

I Found Yellow, Mommy!

2005-08-20T11:57:00.000-05:00

Ok, this may look and sound gross to a lot of you, but we are very proud and happy! Just 2 days ago, Ellie decided it was time to start using the potty! She WILLINGLY sits on it and goes! #2 is another story.. but hey, we're off to a great start. She has coined her own terms for using the potty... like, instead of saying "pee-pee" she says, "I found lellow!" And instead of "poop", she says, "I haffa sqeeze!" Creative, isn't she? I am overjoyed and so relieved! This is like a major burden lifted off of my shoulders, and not only are we proud of her, she is proud of herself! FINALLY!!!

It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!

2005-08-18T17:27:00.000-05:00

We have a pumpkin patch. We didn't plant it, the previous pastors did. They also planted strawberries, weird plants, and all kinds of garden-y things. We do not garden. I had to learn when the strawberries were ripe, so we could pick them, and now I've just learned that pumpkins are ripe when they fall off the vine. I wouldn't have figured that out on my own, I would have been taking them off the vine when I thought they were ready! This pumpkin patch is over taking our yard, as you can see! Right now we have about 6 orange ones, a couple of green ones, and we've found several more little baby ones, about 10 of them. Needless to say, we are more than prepared for Halloween, Thanksgiving, and then some. Anybody want some pumpkins?

Weary Travelers

2005-08-12T15:59:00.000-05:00

We had a huge storm last night and all some interesting things "washed" up. It's so dry here that normally when we get rain, the ground is dry again in about an hour. However last night's rain left puddles - something rarely seen around here!

I found this little guy taking a stroll in front of our house on the sidewalk... yes, he was walking down the sidewalk.

He was not too hip on coming out to say hi.

I'm not sure the locust has anything to do with the rain, but I saw it fly off the church's roof and onto the sidewalk on the other side of the fence. Now I can be in the Jana Day Locust Club! (See Jana Day's blog if you have no clue what I'm tlaking about)

The minute he starts to invite his buddies over for a molting party, he's gone!

Ellie Delph: Fashionista & Musician

2005-08-10T15:52:00.000-05:00

Ellie loves clothes, shoes, bows in her hair, singing and "playing" piano. She picks songs up very quickly, remembers words, and tell US what songs to sing on Sunday morning! She must always have dressy "Annie" shoes on, lacy socks, and barrettes or bows in her hair. They don't always look the best, but hey, she's only 3. Who am I to argue with her?!

After taking her bath, she likes to look at what she's wearing. Here, she can see her reflection in the oven door.

"Holy is the Lord! Goooood Alminy! The Errrrrrt is pill wif his glowy!" I know you can't hear it, but that's what she was singing.

So serious. Must have the Sprite in the Subway cup to concentrate.

You must push the pedals every now and then. And watch out, Jonathan Antin and Nick Arrojo. Only Ellie Delph can wear a ponytail, 2 barrettes, and a ribbon in her hair all at the same time and STILL look cute.

They grow so fast!

2005-08-05T10:12:00.000-05:00

I can't believe she's so big that we're already thinking about preschool. She's 3 1/2, and it's time, I guess! Most people I know didn't go to preschool until they were 4, but I know she'd love it. The social interaction with other kids alone would be great for her. It seems like you can never prepare yourself enough for how quickly they grow up. I'm still getting over the fact that she doesn't need bottles, almost doesn't need sippy cups anymore! She can pretty much hold her own with a regular cup if I only fill it halfway. She still sleeps in a crib ( I know some people think this is wierd ), but friends of mine with older children say if she's not climbing out, don't put her in a big girl bed yet! We can have regular conversations with her now. She says pretty much whatever she wants. Sometimes she gets her words mixed arouond, but you can still understand what she's saying. She can put her shoes on by herself and she can almost dress herself. I am not ready for her to be 4 yet! And I know it will come quickly. She knows her ABC's, she can count to 10, knows all her shapes and colors, and can pick up words to songs in a heartbeat. She knows all the words to "You Raise Me Up" because Josh and I practiced it in the car for an hour on the way to a wedding! She loves FFH, especially "You Found Me". Hates Barney (thank goodness) and loves the Doodlebops. She likes to "do" mommy's hair with her pretend curling iron and blowdryer. She tells me, "Now sit still! I'm almost done! Look at me!" It's so amazing that in 3 short years she has developed into her own little person with likes and dislikes, favorite songs and movies, and is almost ready for school. It's a little sad for me when she sees a baby and says, "Look mommy, a baby!" And I think to myself, "NO! You're supposed to be the baby!" And even though she's barely in 2T clothes, she's not a baby anymore! Now if we can just get her potty trained......

Challenges and Organization

2005-08-04T00:00:00.000-05:00

I am not a naturally organized person. I love organization, I just can't seem to get there. Why is this? I have been challenged to do a better job at this. More than anything, I want a smoothly-ran home, a clean home, and no weeds growing in my backyard. (Although Josh is the yard master) I want toys in neat little bins (we have little bins, they are not organized) I want clutter to disappear. I want my house to have that crisp-clean smell. (Not that it stinks, but you know what I mean) I love waking up to a clean house. What a great feeling. It just seems there is always something that needs to be done. Clothes put away, toys put away, dishes need to be washed or put away, the bed needs to be made. We used to make our bed everyday, now we're out of the habit. There really is no excuse. I STRONGLY desire to have a daily schedule with Ellie, a cleaning schedule, days that we do certain things, like the library on Mondays, or the playground on Fridays. This whole staying home full time thing is new to me, and I'm starting to get bored! Isn't that awful?! Here is my "schedule" now : Get up around 8:30, give Ellie a poptart (because she loves them) and some milk, then go downstairs and check my email and turn on Playhouse Disney for Ellie, hang around in my pj's until around 10am. Then the shower, then clean a little, launder a little, then it's usually lunchtime and Josh comes home. After lunch, we might go to the library or whatever. It's been WAY too hot to take walks. (105 last week) Ellie goes down for a nap around 3:00 and wakes up around 5:00. What do I do during that time? I relax. I watch Oprah or read Real Simple (the magazine that I cannot live life without, and, ironically, is all about organization in your life) or journal, maybe take a nap if I'm really sleepy. Now that I look at all that - I can seem lazy. What should I do with myself? What do I do with Ellie? I am also not a natural mother, and at this age, I have no clue what to do with her. She will not play by herself. She must follow me around everywhere I go. That's fine, I just wish I could find something free and constructive for her to do. She's not into coloring anymore, she likes to play with babydolls now, but she wants me to play with her. Which is fine, except I have things to do around the house. Josh keeps saying to me, "I thought you were going to make a daily schedule? What's happened with that?" I don't know! I don't know what to do in my daily schedule!!!! Am I lazy?! Or just un-motivated? I want to see myself as one of those moms who gets up at like 7 and is perfectly groomed and showered and has breakfast ready for my family on the table (except we don't have a table, we have a bar) and then starts housework while my beautiful child plays outside on her brand new swingset that her grandparents bought for her (except she won't play outside by herself, and it's been so hot that the swings and the slide burn her little legs) and my house is clean ALL THE TIME. Do you see what I did after all of that? I made excuses. I'm tired of making excuses, I need to find solutions to my excuses. I know God has given me the wonderful privelege of staying at home with Ellie, and I have 24 hours in my day just like everyone else to make the best of. I really feel like making the most of my day is what God would have me to do. I know it will make me a better mother, wife, and will truly affect my time w/ God when I have those few hours to myself everyday. Does anyone else find it extremely hard to get up in the morning and try to connect with God? I so badly want to be a morning person! To be wide awake at 6:30 am would be wonderful! Of course... it's 12:19am and I'm sitting here blogging. The old saying "happiness starts in the home" is probably true, and I really think God is telling me to take it to heart. I know that true happiness starts with my God, and that is true in my life. But I think I could love my family more and take care of them better if I organized my home well and made better use of my time. I will be praying about this and ask God to fill me in on how I can do this. And any suggestions from all of you would great! I'll keep you updated.

The Perfect Day

2005-07-26T12:13:00.000-05:00

The Backroad
Originally uploaded by Contrails.

I can't wait for fall. It is my absolute most favorite season ever. I hear the colors aren't as bright here, so maybe they'll be better in Colorado Springs. I found this picture on Flickr today. Flickr is so great. This reminds me of when Josh and I were engaged and we lived in Bellaire, Michigan. That was one of the happiest times in my life. I woke up this morning to a chilly, rainy day and suddenly had a longing for fall. Street fairs, sweaters, orchards, pumpkins (which there are some growing in our backyard, planted by the previous pastors that lived here), carmel apples, cool breezes, the smell of leaves, bonfires, hayrides... I love all of it. I even like winter. Until after Christmas, then it can just all go away. The opening scenes in "You've Got Mail" are all about fall. Talking about it, telling each other why they love it so much. Bouquets of freshly sharpened pencils! I would love to be in NYC for fall. I've never been there, but if I could go, I'd go in the fall. There is also the scene when Joe is taking his brother and aunt to the street fair, and the street is covered in leaves, they're dressed in sweaters, and I want to be there with them! A perfect "season" day for me would be grey, a little bit of a breeze, colorful trees so vibrant they look like paintings (and they do in Northern Michigan), and a drive to an orchard. Or just sitting on a bench with my journal. It also reminds me of walking on campus at IWU. Aren't those great memories, for all of us IWU alum? I can't wait for fall!

The O.C.

2005-07-25T16:25:00.000-05:00

The O.C.
Originally uploaded by Cammiebeth.

Dusk at Huntington Beach, from the pier

The O.C. - Our New Home

2005-07-13T23:02:00.000-05:00

Man, this really feels like home. Away from home. No really, home. We have been in SoCal the past few days for the Saddleback Worship Conference, but so much has occured! We have reunited with friends, gleaned wisdom from the amazing speakers at the conference, and are already looking at life with fresh new eyes. And we have no pictures to show for it. We suck. Anyway, we got here on Monday morning around 10:30 am, and proceeded to pick up our rental car.... which we were told by the mean Avis people that we couldn't pick it up until 1:00 pm. Our friends that we were supposed to meet for lunch, Grant and Karen Thiessen, ended up coming to the airport to pick us up. Had an awesome non-frozen pizza from California Pizza Kitchen and laughed, talked, and caught up. We eventually made it to Saddleback for the first choir practice with TOMMY WALKER - how amazing is that?! It was great. We made it back to the hotel around 11:30 and crashed. Tuesday was full of worship, awesome workshops, and the best of all..... our hook up with Josh and Lacy Garlow, Sam and Rosie Bills, and Brock and Esther Sheets!! We haven't seen these guys in almost 5 years... and we hadn't missed a beat. Once we figure out how to post links to their blogs, we will do so. Garlow's blog has pictures to recreate the whole thing. We ate at P.F. Chang's, then had ice cream at Coldstone. Just talking, catching up, and hanging out and talking baby stuff with all the girls (Esther & Brock and Sam & Rosie are all expecting!!) was a lot of fun. We get to experience Skyline with the Garlows on Sunday morning in San Diego. We've never been there, so we are pumped. I love last minute plans. So, this is the only the 2nd day of the conference and we are inspired, refreshed, and being totally spoiled by the greatness of it all. We miss Ellie, but she's having a great time at Grandpa and Grandma Delph's in Colorado Springs. Could we call SoCal our home one day?..... Ah, we can dream. And God is in the business of big dreams.

Samantha

2005-06-27T10:13:00.001-05:00

Samantha
Originally uploaded by Cammiebeth.

The cutest dog in the whole wide world... and probably the laziest. She sleeps all day long.

Ellie's summer haircut

2005-06-27T10:13:00.000-05:00

Ellie's summer haircut
Originally uploaded by Cammiebeth.

Like it? I did it myself.

Whooped

2005-06-27T10:12:00.000-05:00

Whooped
Originally uploaded by Cammiebeth.

Ellie fell asleep on the floor in front of the fireplace while playing hide and seek with Breanna's boyfriend, Alex.

Chocolate face

2005-06-27T10:11:00.000-05:00

Chocolate face
Originally uploaded by Cammiebeth.

Can you tell she's been eating M&M's?

Breanna and Ellie

2005-06-27T10:10:00.000-05:00

Breanna and Elli
Originally uploaded by Cammiebeth.

This is Josh's sister, Breanna with Ellie. Of course Ellie NEVER looks at the camera.

Josh the cook

2005-06-27T10:09:00.000-05:00

The master chef
Originally uploaded by Cammiebeth.

Josh is the cook in our family, he is awesome. He's making fajitas ( I swear they taste just like restaurant fajitas) for the whole family!

Us

2005-06-27T10:08:00.000-05:00

Us
Originally uploaded by Cammiebeth.

We are at Josh's grandparent's house in Tipton, IN for a few days. It's been a long time since anyone has even taken a picture of the two of us! Some of you might not be able to tell because you haven't seen us since IWU days, but Josh is down 40 lbs, and Cammie is down 22 lbs. We have a LONG way to go, but we're doing it!

Friends!

2005-06-27T10:06:00.000-05:00

Indiana friends!
Originally uploaded by Cammiebeth.

This is Bethany and Pam Keller with us. We had just finished eating at Chili's in Richmond, and Dave, Pam's husband and Bethany's dad, had to go back to the office. Andrew, their son, was somewhere.... Pam has motivated us to lose weight, she recently took off 135 lbs! We're on our way...

Don and Beth

2005-06-27T10:03:00.000-05:00

Friends!
Originally uploaded by Cammiebeth.

These are our good friends, Don and Beth Beatty. Our Home group met at their house, and we rarely stayed on topic - the best kind of Home group!

New family

2005-06-27T10:02:00.000-05:00

Cammie's cousins
Originally uploaded by Cammiebeth.

This is Cammie's cousin Ben and his new wife, Mandie. We went back to Indiana to sing for the wedding and made a vacation out of it! Doesn't she look like a Barbie doll? It was so beautiful, and everything went very smoothly.

Ellie

2005-06-08T18:43:00.000-05:00

Look at those eyes!
Originally uploaded by Cammiebeth.

for those who haven't seen us in awhile this is our amazing daughter, ellie. she is 3 and encourages me every day to be a better person and father. this picture was taken on easter morning 2005 before church. this was cammie's first attempt at curling her hair...i think she did a good job.