the millers

special guests

2012-01-30T06:00:00.001-06:00

The week before Christmas we had some very special guests over for dinner...Carissa, all the way from Mexico & her sister, Kaleigh....both are Arlan's cousins. It was nice to hear Haven's Spanish books read right for once & Haven loved listening to her voice when reading her Bible stories in Spanish. I have a video, but I promised Ms. Carissa I wouldn't post it!

I can't believe I forgot to post these pictures...thanks again for coming ladies!

Friday's Funny-big girl bed

2012-01-27T06:00:00.001-06:00

For the last 2 months Haven has been sleeping in her big girl bed at night. She loves it in there & usually falls asleep reading books & when I go in to get her in the morning, has books all around her along with her 8 animals: puppy, Geoffrey the Giraffe, elephant, Bruno the black bear, Brownie the brown puppy, prayer bear, Pooh, and Bumble the pillow pet. To date, she has only fallen out of it twice-it was very traumatic!

Aren't kids so precious when they are sleeping?! :)

aunt "on-ee"

2012-01-26T09:57:00.005-06:00

Two weeks ago we had the fun pleasure of hosting (for a not-very fun reason) my Aunt Vonnie from Phoenix. Haven and her are two peas in a pod...they each know what makes the other "tick"!
They both LOVE shopping, shoes, gum, make-up, pretty jewelry, nail polish...oh, the list goes on!

I didn't take very many pictures that weekend but wanted to post them anyway...thanks again for coming Aunt Vonnie! We had such a fun, relaxing time with you & you are always welcome to come again!

dinner at Olive Garden

Sunday morning

carousel ride

2012-01-23T06:00:00.001-06:00

Before the holidays, we spent a Saturday in Champaign with Aunt Amber. We did a little holiday shopping, had lunch & hung out at her place. Haven also instantly spotted the beautiful carousel at the mall when we first walked in & thus her first ride...she loved it!

Friday's Funny-library arts & craft time

2012-01-20T06:00:00.004-06:00

Reese & I

2012-01-19T06:00:00.000-06:00

snow fun!

2012-01-17T06:00:00.004-06:00

Ahh...finally! We got our first snow fall last Thursday & Friday and Haven, now 2, had such a ball playing in it, "helping me" shovel the driveway & sledding down our front hill & backyard. She is at such a fun age where that gleam in her eye & excitement of snow is so special!

new cousins are coming!

2012-01-16T06:00:00.002-06:00

Announcing the exciting news of two Kellenberger cousins:

cousin 1: due to arrive late April/early May to my brother, Adam & his wife, Erika

cousin 2: due to arrive late June/early July to my sister, Emily & her husband, Mike

Grandma Iowa is going to have a crazy & fun year with her new grand babies!

chirstmas & new year memories ~ 2011

2012-01-13T06:40:00.000-06:00

my friends

2012-01-11T10:55:00.005-06:00

Aren't these two just the smooch-iest darlings!?

Ellie

Greyson

Friday's Funny - christmas cousins

2012-01-06T07:00:00.004-06:00

Friday's Funny - our christmas princess

2011-12-30T06:00:00.000-06:00

merry christmas

2011-12-25T06:00:00.001-06:00

yes, yet again...we have a crying toddler who refuses to smile nicely with Santa!
Just the other day, I asked her "Haven, why don't you like Santa Claus?
Her smart reply, "I like Mommy instead" :)
Ahh...such a smart girl!

Merry Christmas from the Millers

isu christmas party

2011-12-20T06:00:00.001-06:00

This past Thursday night we hosted our college kids for their annual Christmas party. They were all done with finals & looking forward to their holiday break so this is their last big horrah before heading back to their home towns...and quite the horrah it was! An early estimate put the number at about 30-40 kids, which I figured I could easily handle...however, I should have known with finals being over & their break beginning, more were going to show up...and they did as we shoved, pushed & feed about 60 total that night...I know, I know...I'm kinda crazy!

It was a great, fun-filled night of food, carols & games. Also included in our fun evening was a white-elephant gift exchange were some of the more "stolen" items included: a princess basketball hoop set, a saucer/sled, someone's license plate (car NOT included), $20 Walmart gift card & Ghiradelli chocolate. As the video shows, Haven was well loved all night!

Thanks to the other mentor couples who helped out tremendously...I couldn't have done it without them!

Enjoy your break guys & gals & see you next semester!

lovely ladies

2011-12-18T06:00:00.000-06:00

This past Tuesday, my friend Ashley and I hosted a holiday tea at The Tea Room at the Depot in Mackinaw. It was a lovely time of catching up, reflecting & spending time with some quality ladies from Gridley church. So often we don't get/have the time on Sundays to spend time asking questions with some of the older, wiser ladies and this was a perfect setting.

Thank you Katie, Carolyn, Marty & Anna Marie for your conversation, time & wisdom.

Friday's Funny - eric the babysitter

2011-12-16T06:00:00.000-06:00

Eric, one of our college kids, comes & plays with Haven 2 days a week while I go to the gym.
I get my cardio in & he walks away with some home cooked food...it's a great trade-off!
Thanks to Eric she now says "woot-woot" & can say (and now identify) a certain teenage heart-throb by the name of Justin Beiber!

monkey pile

2011-12-11T06:00:00.000-06:00

Hannah, Kaitlin, Emily & Chase...and Havers!

While in Iowa over Thanksgiving, we had dinner with some friends that Haven got to know when Papa Iowa passed. Some family friends & their kids (above) took such fabulous care of our Toodles that I didn't worry even once while we shuttled her there, here and everywhere during Dad's last days. Chad & Sandi...we are so grateful!

Friday's Funny - gotta love the Clones!

2011-12-09T06:00:00.000-06:00

Thanks for my new Cyclone shirt, Cade & Kylie!

Go Clones!

tuesday tales

2011-12-07T15:34:00.003-06:00

Every Tuesday at 10:30 am the Normal Public Library holds Tuesday Tales...a 30 minute time of songs & books. We attended our first Tuesday Tales this past week & Haven loved it...while she started off a bit shy & reluctant, she definitely picked up steam and confidence by the end and was eagerly clapping her hands and answering questions.

miller thanksgiving

2011-12-05T06:00:00.000-06:00

While Haven and I stayed in Iowa with my family, Arlan came back to Illinois for work & spend some time with his family at their Thanksgiving. Looks like quite the time was had by all! Thanks Aunt Twyla for hosting!

William & Charlee

the very fun & intense "don't let the ping-pong ball drop" game

another intense ping-pong game :)

Mr. Grey (Janelle & Brent's)...isn't he getting so big!?

the Grandma's with Grey & Addi (Jeremy & Rachel's)

Friday's Funny - Grandma's cart

2011-12-02T06:00:00.001-06:00

So if you read my last post, you'd realize shopping with my mother in her current handicapped state & my 2-year old daughter isn't exactly the easiest thing in the world...but with several laughs, several bumps/crashes, and hooking both a table & clothes rack in Children's Place within 30 seconds of each other, we survived a 1/2 day shopping at both Target & the Empire Mall in Sioux Falls.

If you are curious:
1. the Empire's motorized carts are WAY better than Targets.
2. Targets carts actually beep when you back up...just like construction trucks!
3. the mall's carts have two speeds: rabbit & turtle...I'll let you decide which speed my Mom used.
4. Yes, much to Mom's chagrin, we did see people we knew!
5. Mom could actually go faster (when on rabbit speed, of course) than I could walk pushing Haven in a stroller laden with bags...she liked that!

thanksgiving week

2011-11-30T11:01:00.005-06:00

Last week was a hard week...the first holiday without Dad, his farm sale & Mom found out she has/had a stress fracture in her foot and is thus in a boot cast & on crutches...needless to say, many emotions went through my head & heart.

Sale day was yucky...rain, cold, sleet & then icy roads, but the sale still went on; regardless, a fair amount of farmers, friends & community members still showed up and it went well.
All of Dad's farm possessions were polished & shiny for the sale and so many thoughts went through my prayers as I realized this all has vanished for my dear Daddy and he no longer is caring about his beloved tractors in the heavens; yet to us still here, we see the hard work, the diligence in taking care of his machinery & what our Dad stood for while here in this world...so emotionally draining.

On Sunday night, Mom hosted an appreciation dinner for all those friends & family who helped Dad plant & harvest his crops this past year; it was held at a nearby winery in NW Iowa (yes, we have those too!) and it was a neat night of sharing & remembering Dad. Haven had come down with a 24-hour bug so Arlan stayed home from church & the dinner to take care of her before flying back on Monday morning to be with his family on Thanksgiving.

Mom did well despite her handicapped state & Haven and I enjoyed staying through the Thanksgiving holiday with her and spending time with cousins. Continue to pray for my dear mother...it's daily prayers & grace sustaining her.

Friday's Funny-cousins

2011-11-25T06:00:00.000-06:00

Haven & Lucy (Curtis & Cathy's)

Haven & Mali (Lonn & Jammie's)

Friday's Funny-crowd control

2011-11-18T06:00:00.000-06:00

hanston john

2011-11-17T10:40:00.005-06:00

My cousin Betsy is now a mommy of 2!
Hanston John Strahm was born on Tuesday night, weighing 8 lbs. 14 oz & is 20.5 inches long.

Congratulations John & Bets...anxious to smooch those cheeks!

spoiled

2011-11-14T12:51:00.007-06:00

So while we were away for our couples weekend to Michigan, Haven received ROYAL treatment from my Mom who flew in from Iowa AND her two sisters from Phoenix. Haven now chews gum (she prefers pink gum), says "oh nuts" or "oh sugar" when something goes wrong, and LOVES candy! Hmm...what a parent sacrifices for time away :)

Thanks again Mom & Aunts for watching Haven....it was so fun to have you here!

Chutes & Ladders and Memory are some of Haven's favorite games right now...I have yet to beat my daughter in Chutes & Ladders...I'm not sure what is more pathetic: the fact I'm 0-4 or the fact I'm NOT purposefully letting her win! :)

Haven and Aunt Vonnie tied during Memory.

Aunt Vonnie & Aunt Lo showed Haven how to really make a splash with her rain boots & coat :)

the Aunts & Mom even got in on Haven's first trick-or-treating...her outfit?
a garden gnome!
I mean, how other many garden gnomes do you suppose we saw?!

Friday's Funny-pen pals

2011-11-11T06:00:00.001-06:00

They hadn't spent quality time together in a while & yet...

Well, to be fair, Arlan had a stressful week at Watershed & Clint had only had 4-5 hours of sleep in the past 36...so I guess, this IS quality time!

praise Him!

2011-11-09T06:00:00.000-06:00

the group

2011-11-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

2 weekends ago, we traveled up to South Haven, MI, and spent some time with a dear group of friends...some have been friends for years; others we recently got to know; yet others either I or Arlan knew just one member of the husband/wife team...regardless, it ended up being a fun, refreshing, "starter" weekend for us six couples. Arlan and I had never been part of an "out-of-town potluck" and since starting a family and transitioning through many phases of life [moving, career change, children, grief, etc], we determined a spiritual/emotional/comic support group was needed. Thus "the group" was formed...we use this name because we couldn't determine a different title & we feel like there our plenty of other "out-of-town" potluck groups out there using that name to the max!

Thanks friends for making our first get together a special one & we look forward to this coming May/June with kiddos! Thank you to all the Grandma's, in-laws & friends who took care of children while we were away...it was SO appreciated!

(click here to see additional pictures from the weekend)

Saturday morning Bible study

the boys, ehm, spiritually focused on the Michigan/Purdue football game :)

meal time! Kim & Alesa were the food committee this time & made some delicious meals of pancake waffles for breakfast and homemade pizzas for lunch...yum, so good!

Sunday morning picture...we all attended South Bend, IN

Friday's Funny - Doorneweerd cousins

2011-11-04T06:00:00.000-05:00

This fun picture of Haven's 1st cousin, Maden (on the left) and her 2nd cousin, Jackson (on the right), was taken after Iowa State proudly beat the Hawkeyes this fall.
Too cute of picture not to post!

birthday party

2011-11-03T09:31:00.004-05:00

We celebrated Haven's 2nd birthday on her big day as Grandma Iowa was in town for the occasion. The birthday girl got some wonderful gifts: books, puzzles, a doll stroller, a few movies, new Slugs & Bugs CD's, a darling new place setting, fun toys....and the ehm, "scare" of the night was a hamster/gerbil cage, lovingly wrapped & given by Dix-ee. While thankfully there was NO live animal[s] in the packaging, the kids got a kick out of seeing Dixie's dog, Madden, tied up in the backyard. And of course, Madden didn't disappoint as he showed off many of his tricks.

Thank you all for making it a fun party!

she's two

2011-11-01T06:00:00.001-05:00

It's hard to believe our little baby is two already...the frequent saying "it goes so fast" or "it only speeds up" is now believable as Haven is her only little person ~ talking, singing, playing, dancing, having likes/dislikes & her own personality.

She is a trusting little girl who loves kids, puppies & will do just about anything for Dora fruit snacks or a "popsicle" (aka frozen gogurt!). Haven still loves her books, loves exploring & loves her cousins & friends, repeatedly praying for them over the course of the day. She likes music & dancing and enjoys her pacifier all too much for a 2 year old who knows all her shapes, colors, most numbers & even letters!

Haven ~ you are the apple of our eye & we are humbled, proud, and blessed to be your parents.

Happy 2nd Birthday sweetheart!

Friday's Funny-cousins

2011-10-28T07:05:00.003-05:00

"Are these really my cousins", thinks Charlee.

california - Oct. 2011

2011-10-27T07:21:00.004-05:00

Arlan and I were fortunate enough to spend last week in lovely California with friends, nature & each other! We started off flying into Orange Co. & then stayed with our dear friends Justin & Robin in the L.A. area & after attending church together at Altadena on Sunday, headed up the coast. After stopping to see some elephant seals, William Randolph Hearst's architectural wonder, & beautiful coastline we eventually ended up at Monterrey. Over to Yosemite, King's Canyon & Sequoia National Parks was next on the agenda & oh, how God's power sings through that beauty! We then headed back down to Palm Springs area to enjoy some desert heat with our friends Clint & Alesa (who were attending a Urology conference in CA) ~ we couldn't have planned it better!

Enjoy a few shots of our trip!

Friday's Funny-gotta love chocolate pudding!

2011-10-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

in the combine with Papa

2011-10-17T06:00:00.001-05:00

Last Friday night, Haven got royal treatment in a uh-hem, RED combine. She loved it as she sat on her Dad's lap and made a few rounds as Papa was combining beans. Thanks for letting them ride Papa...Haven had a great time!

Friday's Funny-backseat singing!

2011-10-14T06:54:00.000-05:00

Haven's favorite song right now is "Jee-sus"...she prefers it over "bus", "happy", & even "noah".

She sings it frequently while playing, when she wakes up in the morning, while getting her diaper changed...or even in the backseat of the car! But of course, as soon as I put a video on her, she thinks I'm taking pictures so this isn't really the full chorus :)

P.S. ~ I may or may not be driving during this video :)

camp

2011-10-13T07:36:00.003-05:00

Last weekend was spent out at East Bay camp with our college kids and approx. 50 junior high boys & girls. Usually weather is cold, rainy and/or damp so last weekend was a treat! Our theme was "Jewels in the Crown" taken from Malachi 3:16-17a. The campers had a blast & our college kids did fabulous as each cabin became one gem/metal.

I didn't get many pictures of Haven at camp, but she was a trooper coming along both Friday & Saturday...in fact, Saturday afternoon, I had barely pulled out of camp with her & she was already snoring in the backseat! It was an exhausting 24 hours but such a fun time!

the wiener roast

2011-10-11T07:09:00.003-05:00

Each year in October, the Millers hold their annual weiner roast...it's actual in honor of Elijah & Cathy's birthdays but it has become a yearly family event. The kiddos are at fun ages right now & SUPER hard to photograph ALL together...but we tried!

We headed to a Fall get-together with our college kids after the wiener roast & thus a glimpse of Haven's gnome outfit at the end!

one month...

2011-10-07T13:11:00.003-05:00

picture taken March 2011

It's already been one month today since we said goodbye to Dad and he was welcomed into heaven...some days it seems like it happened a while ago & other days it seems like it was just yesterday...

The most common question I get is "how is your Mom?"...you know, my Mom is a strong lady who keeps trying to put one foot in front of the other...that isn't to say, she's not lonely or has hard days or has to keep up her yard work & big empty house all by herself or just plain misses Dad...but my usual answer for her (and all of us, for that matter) is "one day at a time"...

Many of you have said you are praying for my family & I, and for this we are extremely grateful...please continue to do so as it makes those moments of tearful sobs, pain-aching heartbreak, and a blissful future in heaven that more real/comforting.

apples & Holly

2011-10-02T06:00:00.003-05:00

This past Thursday we spent time with our dear "Aunt" Holly and traveled to our yearly autumn destination of Tanner's Orchards. I'll admit, it's pretty much the same every year and not much changes but oh, the smell of apple cider donuts, the gooeyness of their apple fritters while sipping caramel apple coffee...ah, it's a fabulous Fall activity!

Haven gets more fun each year to take...through her eyes (and Holly's for that matter) it's so much fun to experience everything likes it's brand new...even a pregnant goat not fitting through a wire bridge, for instance!

We had a great time to catch-up as friends & just spend a nice Fall day together...thanks again Holls...it was great fun!

Friday's Funny...or maybe not so funny!?

2011-09-30T06:00:00.002-05:00

discovering a museum

2011-09-28T06:00:00.002-05:00

Tuesday we spent the morning at the Children's Discovery Museum here in Normal...I'll admit, I had heard parents RAVE about it but was a bit skeptical as I mean, really...why should one have to pay to entertain & teach your child?

Gulp! A piece of humble pie was on the menu that morning as I was BLOWN away...so many fun, interactive stations that Haven didn't know which one to play with & where to go next. While some museums cater to older children (I'd say like 7-12), this one had something for everyone and Haven was the perfect age. She played on their jungle gym, did puzzles, played with their water set/tubes, shopped at a grocery store & then "checked out", made a pizza & then "baked it", played with trains, investigated the kid-size chess set, "drove" a Case tractor & JD combine, played with legos, and my favorite station: the painting room...Haven's first time with paints! Such fun & I didn't have to clean up the mess!

We went with Ashley & Reese...it was SUCH a fun time! Thanks friends!

Here's a few pictures:

Friday's Funny-Haven's gnome friend

2011-09-23T06:00:00.001-05:00

Oh yes, we here at the Miller residence LOVE our gnome...Haven decided she needed to eat breakfast with him Monday morning and proceeded to line up her zucchini bread, peaches, eggs & toast in front of him.

Halloween is right around the corner all...stay-tuned for more gnome pictures!

tea with grandma Iowa

2011-09-19T17:14:00.005-05:00

Friday's Funny-coraled

2011-09-16T06:00:00.001-05:00

thank you

2011-09-14T08:56:00.003-05:00

A new "normal" will now begin for my Mom, myself & family...we miss Dad...the 100's of family, friends & acquaintances who came through visitation & funeral is a testimony to what big shoes I have to fill as his daughter.

I want to say thank you for all the cards, prayers, emails & texts I received from you out there...they were felt & appreciated. As I type, Arlan is on his way back to central IL & I plan on flying back with Haven Saturday morning. I am saddened to think of leaving my dear mother already but know she will be well taken care of & needs to have her own personal time to grieve & adjust...whatever adjust means.

Continue to think of her & us in the coming weeks...blessings to all...katie

obituary

2011-09-10T09:09:00.000-05:00

Dad's obituary

he's home

2011-09-08T07:30:00.003-05:00

"...It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son." ~Revelations 21:6-7~

Last night Dad went to be with the Lord...at about 9:10 pm Dad took his last peaceful breathe with mom, all of his kids & spouses & Uncle Butch holding his hand while shedding our tears of joy & sadness.

Your prayers have meant so much to us the last several days, weeks, and months...bless all of you for thinking of us.

We covet the memories we have with Dad & ask in the next several days you continue to pray for strength for our dear Mom, us kids, and the many relatives and friends...

victory has been won!

Golden

A golden heart, a golden life and now a golden scene ~ when I look back at Dad’s life, golden is what he means.

A golden car is what he drove as he whisked my Mom away ~ that Roadrunner climbed up the mountains & Mom was here to stay.

After a few purchases, a yellow truck is what Dad found ~ many a folk noticed Dad ~ his golden cab shown for miles around.

Doing to others as you want returned was often spoken here ~ the golden rule was always preached & to my Dad was dear.

My mom caught the golden fever & after 40 years ~ her laundry room now brightly shines golden through it’s mirrors.

Yellow is the color of courage: bright, brave & strong ~ one who knows, accepts & fights whatever life brings along.

And now my golden Dad has one more golden date ~ as he chose earlier in life to make Jesus Christ an eternal mate.

The golden rule, golden truck, laundry room & car ~ can all sit back & watch ~ streets of gold are greeting Dad from a far.

waiting to go home

2011-09-05T08:09:00.004-05:00

For the next several days, perhaps weeks, my blog will be pretty inactive as currently Haven & I are still in Iowa. All 3 of us, including my ever-so-devoted husband, traveled out last Wednesday night to be with my Dad over Labor Day and it seems the next step in his cancer journey was upon us...

Last Thursday we helped Mom transfer Dad to a Hospice Cottage in Luverne, MN...about 20 minutes from Lester, IA. It isn't a nursing home & it isn't a hospital...it is a wonderful 4-resident facility designed for people just like my Dad-with terminal illness that want the cozy, comfort of a home-like setting while waiting to go home...

So Haven and I are waiting because my dear Daddy is waiting...waiting for that amazing victory that comes to those who have found Jesus Christ as their Savior!

Thanks in advance for your prayers-we are feeling them!

**For a more complete, detailed journey update, feel free to visit my Dad's Caringbridge page.

grandparents

2011-08-31T06:00:00.000-05:00

Two weeks ago, Arlan rode out for a quick trip to Lester with his parents. My Miller in-laws & my parents...it hadn't happened for some time & it was a nice visit for my Dad. He even was able to get in his pick-up and ride around the countryside with Orlan & Carol. Haven LOVED having both grandparents there together!

cousin Will is two!

2011-08-28T18:54:00.002-05:00

Friday's Funny-Schurters

2011-08-26T06:00:00.000-05:00

Haven loved reading with "Itch" & "Vi-kehy"...thanks for coming over a few weeks ago...we had a ball! And Haven LOVES her princess cup :)

friends

2011-08-21T20:11:00.004-05:00

Gotta love Kent & Holly...thanks for staying over & catching up!
We, especially Haven, had a great time!

Friday's Funny - an afternoon at the pool

2011-08-19T06:00:00.001-05:00

A few weeks ago, I took Haven to the Gridley swimming pool and of course, she had a ball. This girl is NOT afraid of water & kept watching the big kids jump off the diving board while instructing them "ready...go!". My video didn't pick up her bossy instructions but it shows her having a swell time in the little kids area. She likes it okay in there but would much rather be where the big kids are...in fact, I spent the majority of my time trying to explain why she's not quite big enough yet to jump off the diving board herself! :)

butterflies

2011-08-16T06:00:00.001-05:00

When we moved to our new place 2 months ago, one of the first things my husband and mother-in-law commented on in our backyard was our nice sized butterfly bush in our flower garden..."you just wait", Carol said, "they'll come"...and sure enough, while Haven and I were enjoying a lovely lunch/picnic out back, fluttering around the bush & deck were 3 lovely yellow-tail butterflies! It was such fun watching the gleam in her eyes & Haven shrieking with delight!

I even took a stem off the bush in hopes of "catching" one & Haven actually almost had one land on her little branch...except she was so busy squealing with delight that it was so close to her, the butterfly ended up flitting back to the bush! Grandma Iowa ~ we needed your butterfly catchers!

...no idea where she gets such excitement from!? :)

waiting "patiently"....

wanting to give up...

...rewarded for her diligence & super excited!

our beautiful visitors...look really hard...their there!

[I mean really?...who has time to run in & get your camera when ones' phone is right beside you?]

Friday's Funny - summersault

2011-08-12T06:00:00.001-05:00

GW sale

2011-08-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

We had no more than walked into an auction tent last Saturday, when one of our college boys/now alum whisked Haven away to go "check out" the merchandise...I'm not sure who had more fun....Haven bossing those boys around from one toy to the next OR the boys who lovingly played along every time she said "Sit down" :)

Thanks guys!

Sadly, Haven went home with none of the above merchandise but isn't it great to know there were SO many John Deere options!

friends

2011-08-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

Haven has been having lots of company lately and has been loving having playmates to play with!

We had our realtor, Willow, and her husband and kiddos over for a meal to thank her for hanging in there with us over a 5 month period! Here are her kids, Travis & Mia.

And we stopped one day to play with cousin Will & have lunch with them.
It's not a very clear picture but Haven & Will decided to haul these 2 doll chairs down from upstairs & proceed to climb all over them while Little Ms. Boss kept telling her cousins to "sit down" :)

a weekend in Leo

2011-08-07T06:00:00.001-05:00

We headed east last weekend to visit some friends & attend the annual Gateway Woods Auction in Leo, IN. It was great fun to catch up with our friends Stu & Daisha and have Haven play with their boys, Creed & Trek. Haven had such a great time & we enjoyed our stay...thanks guys-we love you!

crazy times!

Friday's Funny-playing with the cousins

2011-08-05T06:00:00.002-05:00

While doing corn this past Monday, you never knew what the boys were going to be toting Haven around in...it started with just riding on the scooter & then riding in the wagon & then riding on the scooter hooked on to the wagon! She LOVED it!

Friday's Funny-"reading" with Haven

2011-07-29T06:00:00.005-05:00

ode to Kens

2011-07-25T14:19:00.006-05:00

July 17th is just not special anymore because it's my parent's anniversary but it now stands as an anniversary date for a dear friend of ours, Kendra.

I met Kendra 9 years ago through my friend Kimmy. I traveled to Illinois one weekend after college to stay with Kim and ended up tagging along to Bible study with Kendra & another friend Natalie. We didn't get to know each other right away but several months later, on yet another trip to Illinois, Kendra saw me in a book store, remembered my name [always a plus for me!], and struck up a short conversation...I've liked her ever since.

Kendra is the type of friend who is super fun & easy to be around...doesn't require tons of maintenance (or "entertaining") and is a super fun girlfriend to grab a cup of coffee with, peruse a bookstore and go on road-trips with. She tells you like it is & doesn't beat around the bush when it comes to opinions-something a true friend does. Above all, she truly strives to model herself into a Godly woman.

Since we traveled back to Iowa for my parents anniversary weekend & thus missed her big day, I wanted do a post in honor to her...here is short video of some of my favorite Kendra memories/moments!

Congratulations Doug & Kens...best wishes & we look forward to more memories!

A few wedding pictures of the bride can be found here.

Friday's Funny

2011-07-22T06:00:00.001-05:00

"It's not hot out...do I have to come in?!"

forty years

2011-07-20T13:46:00.014-05:00

4 decades...a generation by most accounts.

My parents were married on Saturday, July 17, 1971. They were married in an outdoor ceremony at my Great Uncle's farm only about 4 miles from Lester. My mom remembers my dear Grandmother Doorneweerd having to wipe off all the guest's chairs as it had rained the evening before. Their reception was held at the Rock Rapids community center and they estimated about 200 people attended. She remembers it being hot for a July wedding [nothing like our current weather however] and she remembers flies & bugs buzzing around her long chapel veil. Traveling in style in my Dad's beloved 1969 yellow Plymouth Roadrunner, they honeymooned in Colorado visiting places such as Pike's Peak.

not my Dad's actual Roadrunner, but something similar...my Dad bought his beloved car brand new for $2900 in 1969 and was known to have raced it a "time or two" :)
From time to time, he has kept his eyes open for one, thinking he'd like to buy one again...yellow trucks, yellow Roadrunner & now a yellow laundry room...he does love YELLOW!

Their marriage has endured the test of time ~ when the failing marriage rate is around 60% in our country, I stand amazed that with devotion to God, each other & the relationships they have built around them, they can humbly say they have had a blessed 40 years. It doesn't come without anguish, pain, and hurt as they have buried both sets of parents ~ Henry Kellenberger back in July of 1985; Elaine Kellenberger in January of 2007; and Karoline Doorneweerd in January of 2003. My Dad has also said goodbye to 2 brothers, both in 2010 ~ one tragic, the other a blessing.

a blast from the past ~ 1995

During their 40 years, my Dad farmed & trucked and my Mom stayed at home mostly to raise us children. There are four of us total in my family ~ Lonn, 37 [married to Jammie], Emily, 34 [married to Mike], me, 31, and Adam, 25 [married to Erika]. They have 6 grandchildren.

Nov. 2010

Last weekend, we traveled back to NW Iowa to help my parents celebrate their 40th anniversary. Our small family enjoyed a nice dinner out (with NO kiddos!) and a few family get togethers as the "aunts" from Arizona also joined us for their celebration. It was good to make more memories & spend time together...regardless how short it was.

Mom & Dad this past weekend, opening their lovely Edible Arrangement from the Aunts

Sunday, July 17, 2011

Congratulations Mom & Dad...as Arlan and I celebrate our 5th anniversary next week, I'm so thankful for the example you've been to us. Your courage through the joys & sorrows in life shows a true devotion to each other.

All my love,
Kate Louise

Emily's wedding ~ March 2006

Friday's Funny-"ghetti"

2011-07-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

fun at the Kochs

2011-07-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

While we were traveling to Minnesota last weekend, Haven had a ball staying and playing at her former sitters, the Kochs. This wonderful family in Tremont graciously agreed to keep our princess & treated her to such wonderful care...thanks again for keeping her & thanks for the pictures!

marcus & lindsay

2011-07-11T06:00:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, we traveled up to Glenwood, MN, for the wedding of our dear friend, Linds.
She was SUCH a stunning bride & it was so great to be included in her big day...we road-tripped with the high-energy couple, Kent & Holls, so as guessed, there was rarely a dull moment...unless of course, Holls was sleeping-which was more often than we would have liked :)

Such fun people & such a lovely day...blessings to you both as you enter the wonderful world of "marriage"!

the entire Gramm family was present for Linds' big day...all children, grandchildren & greats..."55 in all" to quote Ila :)

Harold & Ila Gramm

Kens, it's your turn this Sunday!

Kendra & her finance, Doug

Lindsay & Marcus with her Grandpa & Grandma Charles

Friday's Funny-future Watershed employee

2011-07-08T06:00:00.002-05:00

friends cookout

2011-07-06T16:29:00.005-05:00

We celebrated this past Monday but having some friends & their kids in for a cookout.
It was crazy fun with the adult:kid ratio eking near 1:1 so craziness was a given!
Haven, once again, LOVED it as she had so many friends to play with & keep her busy.

We are Family

2011-07-05T09:33:00.003-05:00

This past weekend we hosted the Miller/Schlipf brood at our home & it was a great time!
Carissa was home from Mexico and thus it was imperative we get together.
Because Arlan got so many great pictures, I decided making a movie was easier.
However, I also realize that there are some loyal blog readers (we won't name names) who will look at the pictures and say "it'd better if I knew who went with who" so with that, I also posted two pictures: the 3rd generation kiddos and also the "originals"...us "outlaws" got to take the pictures :)

back row [L to R]: Aunt Vera, Orlan, Carol, Carla, Alan, Janelle, Art, Twyla, Jeremy, Arlan
front row: Cathy, Amber, Kaleigh, Carissa

[L to R]: Will (Alan's), Charlee (Cathy's), Levi (Jeremy's), Ezra (Carla's), Adam (Alan's), Addison (Jeremy's), Haven (Arlan's), Elijah (Carla's), Amelia (Alan's), Grey (Janelle's)

Friday's Funny-gotta love shopping

2011-07-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

I have my camera, wallet & am ready to go!
This isn't a bad indication of her parents, is it? :)

alas...I'm behind

2011-06-27T13:30:00.009-05:00

So we have been super busy unpacking, landscaping, cleaning & getting our house in working order...hmm, that last statement seems a bit relative huh? Well, for the most part our new home is feeling like exactly that-home. We are getting more acquainted with things like garbage can placement, light switches, & where things go & why. We even have pictures hung, books on shelves & toys in their place.

Arlan's landscaping looks FABULOUS & even though I hate admitting he was right, I'm glad we pushed hard to do this while he was in between jobs. We love eating outside & hosting so it will come in great use this weekend when we host his Miller/Schlipf family on the 3rd of July and some friends on the 4th. Stop by & see us sometime...we'd love to see you & give you a tour.

Some catching up photos...

Father's Day in Iowa

Doorneweerd/Kellenberger get-together Father's Day 2011

Kellenberger girl cousins

Grandpa playing croquet with ehem, assistance from Haven, Mali & Maden

Our last morning at Robin Ave.

"Is there room for me, Mom?"

Haven's first look at her new home...she wasn't sold right away.

Haven was SUPER excited to see her crib again!

By the end of our 1.5 week landscaping expedition, she basically was known by first name at the Bloomington Lowes...she LOVED playing on their merchandise & I got more than one smile as I wheeled her around the aisles in her "wagon" (aka garden cart).

"there's never room for me anymore!"

and the finished product...although my phone's camera really doesn't do it justice!
My husband worked VERY hard to get this done-great job Arlan!

Friday's Funny-"Dhaad...what are you doing?" :)

2011-06-17T06:00:00.001-05:00

whew!

2011-06-13T13:42:00.008-05:00

Moving...just the mere word right now makes me weak.

I look around and see the boxes slowly start to dwindle...however, the boxes & lack of organization for this teacher (as well as husband) is beginning to unnerve me :)

We have been in prayer mode regarding a potential job change for Arlan for about a year and a half and just this past spring we felt the doors opening fully to resign from Pekin High to accept a position at Watershed Foods in Gridley. Arlan had been at Pekin High for 10 years and felt that the time for our family to make a switch was now. It was a hard decision and not one taken lightly...education is safe & comfortable...it's what Arlan's known for over 10 years and what I've known for 9. Yet, we felt a constant pulling to challenge ourselves & thus enter the business world. We have always respected Lifesong for Orphans (a non-profit orphan advocacy group) in Gridley and wanted to get involved somehow at a closer level. Watershed Foods is a great way to indirectly be involved as it provides a small percentage of it's annual income to support Lifesong. So the better Watershed does, the more it supports orphans! Arlan will be part of the production & process management team...translation = problem solving less efficient areas of food production, making details behind visions happen & making processes run smoother (if this doesn't sound like it's tailor made for my husband, I'm not sure what is!). It will be a HUGE learning curve for him, for us, and Watershed.

We will miss our small condo in Morton...the memories of first being newlyweds, coming home from teaching full days at Pekin High, the many family & friends who we hosted, and bringing our little bundle of joy home for the first time...yet, our new home is also ready for new memories.

Thanks for your thoughts & prayers this past 1-2 weeks-we've felt extremely blessed.

our first home, purchased in June of 2006...don't we look SO young!?

cutting our cake~July 30, 2006

bringing our little girl home~Nov. 3, 2009

catching a little Dragon football after a LONG week of homecoming activities~Fall 2008

our new home~May 2011

Friday's Funny-praying

2011-06-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

Haven's new friends

2011-06-06T08:47:00.002-05:00

Memorial Day was a big day for our Punkers as she met two new friends, Greyson & Ellie.
She didn't show much interest right away, but after a few minutes in, she was smiling & smooching on them! These children have no choice but to be good friends, so they may as well start liking each other now :)

It was great being with you Knapps...thanks for a fun Memorial Day!

Friday's Funny - who needs playground equipment?

2011-06-03T06:00:00.001-05:00

So all one really needs is a stair case & a playful toddler who finds joy in the small things!
Haven ~ you are such a delight!

last GBS...for me :(

2011-05-31T06:00:00.000-05:00

About 2 years ago, my husband challenged me that I needed to start a girl's Bible study.
He knows that while I read my Bible & prayerfully apply it daily, I am a social creature who enjoys the time spent with & organizing groups of friends...thus GBS [Girl's Bible Study] was born.

This past Monday was my last get together as these lovely ladies will be replacing me once my family & I make our transition to the Bloomington/Normal area.

I will miss you each ladies & you have blessed me abundantly in your wisdom, time & desire to honor God & obey Him.

On the left: Taryn Kaiser & Leah Zimmerman
On the right: myself & Holly Levy
Tracy [Zimmerman] Bucher also used to be part of our gang before her move to Indiana.

showering Lindsay

2011-05-27T08:00:00.004-05:00

Over a month ago (pathetic I'm just getting around to it, I know!), some friends hosted a shower for our Lindsay. It was SO neat to get many of us together from IL, MN, IN & even Jamaica...many of us who haven't seen each other since we either roomed together during college, working days or ran around in young group!

We enjoyed catching up, yummy food, and of course, showering Linds with lots of great gifts for her upcoming wedding in July. It was extra special to have her Mom & sister, Erika, with us for the night as well.

Congratulations girl & best wishes as your big day approaches!

Back: Janel Wiegand, Jessie Esterling, Andria Sprunger, Erika Gramm, Alesa Bahler
On the couch: Keri Plattner, Jolynn Hodel, Holly Levy, Kendra Knapp (soon to be Dohman!) & Lindsay Gramm (soon to be Montana!)

On left [not pictured above]: Heidi Rinkenberger, holding Alesa's Ellie

two darling babies whot attended the party:
Kendra, holding Jolynn's little Landry & Holly, holding Alesa's little Ellie.

so Keri's sister Kasey couldn't make it to the shower, but that didn't stop her from calling us to get a run down of who was all there & what Linds received for gifts...
basically, what Kasey (aka Ms. Life of the Party) was missing out on!

final Robin game night - of course!

2011-05-26T07:32:00.009-05:00

Last Friday night we had a few faithful friends over who have given us many laughs over the last five years here at our condo in Morton...yep, our Final Game night on Robin Ave (more to come on why that is in a future post!).

Rich, Jackie, Josh, Kent, Holly & Taryn...thanks so much for coming and giving us many laughs.

We enjoyed catching up, snacking on yummy food, and got in several games (of course!) including a game of croquet (on a an absolutely bee-u-tiful night!), Apples to Apples, and much to my husband's dismay, a few rounds of Speed Uno.

Such great times...

Haven, of course, wanting to get in on the action as well :)

Haven, of course, LOVED all the attention she was showered with!

Kent in the er, bunker?!

our game of Speed UNO...no winner although Holly & Kent were doing quite well.

and last, but not least, Taryn, of course, got several great shots of Haven!

my picnic table

2011-05-23T06:00:00.001-05:00

Dear friends,

What can Mommy find at a garage sale for $10, you ask?
Well, some pretty cool stuff but none cooler than my new picnic table---I love it!
I would like to have a picnic with you...would you like to have one with me?
Please call my Mommy.

Love,
Haven

Friday's Funny-cousins

2011-05-20T06:00:00.001-05:00

While Haven and Charlee are only 3 days apart (Nov. 1 and Nov. 4), they are opposite in many ways: physical features, favorite foods...you name it. However, one thing remains true-they LOVE seeing each other & playing together.

The below pictures were taken while Papa was in the hospital about 3 weeks ago for his kidney surgery...I love it! Both wanting to play & vying for Aunt Amber's attention...after about 5 minutes, we decided playing in the lounge was better for Papa & for them as these "sitting" poses didn't last long!

first dance

2011-05-18T07:24:00.005-05:00

Several weeks ago, we took Haven to her "first dance" at Pekin High School. Now before I get naysayers out there about to judge me for exposing my daughter to a dance with high schoolers (TRUST me, I know what high school dances are like), this dance was quite different...

The PCHS Student Council puts on their annual Senior Citizens Prom every spring & invites older couples from the community in for a night of dancing-real band, real music & refreshments! It's great...way better than a high school dance! The attendees get all dressed up and as soon as The Nostalgics hit their first note, away they dance-and such great dancers they are. As the evening wears on, the high school kids take their turns dancing (and learning) from their guests-it's great to see such interaction.

here's Haven dancing with a co-worker for ours & Stuco adviso, Colleen...she LOVES her!

Haven also making her rounds to those waiting for the dance to start...she showed them all her tricks! One older lady had asked me, "How old is she?"...and of course, Haven beat me to the punch, promptly showing her 1 finger :)

this is another friend of Haven's, Jake, who is on Daddy's Stuco exec. board

and my favorite picture of the night!
Haven got her very own saxophone solo while she was on the dance floor-I love it!

first haircut

2011-05-12T07:22:00.001-05:00

Thanks Brooklet!
You're the best & we are, for sure, going to miss you!

our dads-May update

2011-05-07T06:00:00.005-05:00

Orlan made it home last Monday from the hospital & seems to be recovering okay. His ever vigilant wife/LPN/caretaker has been monitoring his meds & checking his blood pressure as this was somewhat of a concern when he got discharged this past week. Getting him up & moving around to recover from his surgery is a high priority. His oncologist is not proposing any chemotherapy treatment at this time & seems optimistic that with careful monitoring, he may not need it. His lymph nodes came back clear of cancer as did his margins. Although the sac around the removed kidney tested positive, it appears the cancer did not extend beyond the fat. Thank you for your prayers on behalf of the Miller family.

My Dad finished his radiation treatments on Good Friday and thus begins the waiting until he's scheduled for a bone scan on May 10. He has lots of pain and so my mom has been vigilant in attempting to contact his oncologist & radiologist to determine what he can take, how much & how often. It was an overwhelming weekend (last) as he had 3 terrible days in a row (lots of pain, no appetite, nausea, numbness in his legs) and was prompted to park the truck. Trucking for my Dad has been a source of focus, accomplishment, and a passion for a long time & this decision was not made lightly. My uncle Butch has been slowly but surely picking up his loads here & there; however, with planting season here, my brother-in-law, Mike, graciously agreed to help Dad out until he himself receives a clean bill of health. (Mike has been having pancreatic & gall bladder problems since February, and thus hasn't been able to resume his long distance trucking job yet).

As I type this, I'm back in NW Iowa for a few days to spend with my parents. Haven, of course, LOVES their attention and especially loves it when they laugh at her tricks...it's good to be able to help out when necessary and just be with them. Dad has some good days & more often than not, bad days as well where he is unable to get out and do spring field work. He is in the tractor this morning, planting...I'm sure to his heart's delight :) 1/2 days, at best, are usually what he can put in before his pain catches up with him, he gets too tired or both. The bone scan & MRI's next week will determine what is the next decision.

Please continue praying & know we are SO grateful for those prayers. It is an encouragement to my Dad, my Mom and all of us, when we know "the prayers of righteous men avail much" [James 5:16].

As of Friday, May 6, my Dad now has a CaringBridge website:
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/verlynkellenberger.

Friday's Funny-humbly speaking...

2011-05-06T06:00:00.002-05:00

So at first, this post wasn't a Friday Funny....but now looking back, I can chuckle because my little darling wasn't hurt-only her mother's pride.

About 2 months ago, we went out to dinner with Orlan & Carol at Outback Steakhouse in Bloomington. Once finished we headed to the car & I was putting Haven in her car seat. She always likes seeing & playing with my car keys, so I flung them over to the front driver seat [as WAS my custom] and buckled her in. I must have hit the lock button on our opener because once I shut her car door, poor little Haven was locked in...and, I'm pretty sure my stomach HIT the ground and my heart starting pounding a mile a minute!

I'm such a terrible mother.

Will someone notice Haven & call DCFS?

Will Haven think I'm abandoning her?

What in heck was I thinking?

My usual, quick-thinking, clear-headed husband didn't speak & I really needed him to react much quicker than he did. To Arlan's credit, he still says "I couldn't believe it had really happened!" :)

While I was trying to locate a locksmith on my smart phone, up pulls our good friends, Brian & Katie with their daughter Hannah.
[side note: while we don't see them often enough, we seem to pick the most random locations to accidentally hook up: Indy's Keystone Mall for instance or Tanner's Orchard's or in this case, Outback Steakhouse while I've locked Haven in the car]

Brian quickly jumped into action, looking for something in his trunk that could pry between the door...to no avail. Thus I convinced Arlan that because a child was in danger, calling 911 was our best option. Haven by no means, was in danger, crying, or even in distress but what if a locksmith took 3 hours?

The Bloomington Fire Dept. was dispatched and had Haven happily out (she loves firetrucks) in under 5 minutes from the time I placed the call. Grandpa Miller had kept her entertained my making faces through the car window during our short wait.
The whole ordeal took under 15 minutes.

And of course, our good friends, Brian & Katie, who we see not near enough but at random places....also happened to have their camera along...of course :)

and here are our 2 darlings, only about 1 week before my car-locking incident...we had stopped by after church to catch up, and coincidentally had them dressed alike...of course!
the story of our friendship-it's meant to be Brian & Katie...no getting rid of us!

easter in iowa 2011

2011-05-02T07:40:00.007-05:00

I can't believe Easter was just last week! So much has happened in 7 days...I finally have time to sit down and post a few pictures from our time out in Iowa over Easter. My 2 aunts from Phoenix were home, along with my cousin Kolette and her two boys. It made for some busy yet fun family get-togethers!

the kids waiting for pizza while coloring

Aunt Emmy getting in on the fun

my darling red-head niece, Mali (Lonn's) with Grandpa-she loves rubbing his smooth head too!

Haven trying on Grandpa's boots!
I think she looks like a hufflepud from Narnia's Dawn Treader, except they only have 1 foot :)

Haven's highlight of the trip~riding in Grandpa's truck & getting to honk his horn!
She is obsessed with trucks right now & any time she's sees them when we are driving [especially on interstate], she wildly honks her little horn or waves!

Haven & Macy [Lonn's] playing!

Aunt Emmy got plenty of smooches from Haven :)

Haven loved playing hide-n-seek with Aunt Lois & Aunt Vonnie-these 2 make her laugh!
I had a better picture of the play, but was pretty sure Aunt Lois would NOT have thought it was good! :)

Haven's new favorite past time-coloring!

the kids at Mali's birthday party getting ready for the Easter egg hunt!

Haven's treasure

Mali ready to dig in!

Easter morning with Grandpa & Grandma

Friday's Funny-signs

2011-04-29T06:00:00.000-05:00

It's a bit hard to read, but too funny not to share what you can actually read...this was an auction item at the first annual Miller/Schlipf silent auction. All proceeds of the random knick-knack items at the family silent auction go to charity. Competitive spirits are a must for this family event :)

I believe this random sign ended up with Amber...or she's at least the one who provided me the picture!

orlan's surgery

2011-04-28T07:36:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, Arlan's Dad, underwent kidney surgery to remove the large kidney tumor/cancer that engulfed his right kidney. The entire kidney was removed along with a larger than anticipated tumor. The urologist seemed pleased that the surgery went well taking into account his amount of blood loss & size of tumor. We are headed to the hospital today and are prayerful he had a good first night with pain controlled and able to rest as he will have a several weeks of recovery. Pathology tests (hopefully received this Friday) will show if the cancer has possibly spread outside the kidney area.

Thanks for your prayers & please continue to pray for:

Orlan's pain & that he can slowly but surely begin to regain back movement & functions.
Carol as she stays by his side during long hospital days.
The grace to accept the outcome of the biopsy report.

I will continue to post updates on Orlan's progress periodically so please check back.
Also, it's been over a month since I've posted on my father & although things have been quite hectic, I do plan on updating soon.

Blessings,
Katie

Friday's Funny-political irony

2011-04-22T06:00:00.000-05:00

"Two decades from now, I'm willing to take a look at it, but I'm not willing to take a look at it right now."

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid on any changes to Social Security.

[published in World magazine: April 9, 2011]

Palm Sunday photo shoot

2011-04-20T06:00:00.003-05:00

miller Easter 2011

2011-04-18T07:01:00.005-05:00

Yesterday afternoon, we gathered at Twyla's for our family Easter.
Great food & an Easter egg hunt were in order.

It was breezy but nice enough for the kids to play outside which gave Arlan lots of chances to take some fun pictures of the crazy cousins.

Aunt T's basement is FULL of toys which meant Haven didn't eat a lick ALL night-she was much too busy playing!

Haven begins her Easter egg hunt...

...doing quite well as her er, competitive Mom, "assists" her!

Will did also did very well in the hunt :)

Haven & Will enjoying a few marshmallows from the Easter eggs :)

Levi & the older kids played t-ball

Haven wanted to help while still relishing her Easter baskets :)

Adam had got a rocket stomper for his birthday the weekend before, and it was a great hit with the older kids!

Haven & Will LOVED their sidewalk chalk...Haven's first!
It was like the best of both worlds for Haven-coloring (on something Mommy was okay with :) & being outside!

Friday's Funny-showing up at a social event dressed alike :)

2011-04-15T06:00:00.002-05:00

side note: another gentlemen in attendance that evening at Andy & Jill's house said he had the same/similar shirt in his hand from his closet, and then decided against it :)
Must be the color & season of the year!

adam's 6th

2011-04-11T07:00:00.005-05:00

Yesterday we traveled to PVF to celebrate Adam's 6th birthday party...the whole Miller crew was present ensuring chaos, fun, and great food!

Adam eagerly awaiting his presents....

...and the cousins eagerly awaiting Adam opening his presents!

one of Grandpa's biggest fans, William...

...followed shortly by a few more fans, Charlee & Haven!

Adam loved directing the "happy birthday" song to himself :)

and blowing out the candles of the amazing cake Aunt Vera always makes the kids!
Happy 6th Birthday Adam Daniel :)

Will very much enjoyed Aunt Vera's cake!

Friday's Funny-new phone

2011-04-08T06:00:00.001-05:00

Ahem...she's 17 months and this would be her 2nd cell phone.

Aunt Vonnie, you outdo yourself!

17 months

2011-04-06T06:00:00.002-05:00

Thanks Taryn ~ you're the best!

five years

2011-04-04T08:25:00.005-05:00

Five years~this coming July actually~my husband and I exchanged our wedding vows.

five years. many memories. many moments. many lessons. many blessings.

and one course, one Haven.

This past week we traveled to the beautiful island of Kauai, Hawaii and enjoyed an anniversary trip like non-other...the sights, hiking, resort, amazing dinners...ahh, all was thoroughly enjoyed.

It was a bit longer than I would have liked to leave Haven and by day 3-4, I was pinning for her but as you'll see in a later post, she was well taken care of by her Miller grandparents & our newlywed friends, Holly & Kent.

Lots of pictures so I decided the best way to display them was via video...while I hope you enjoy it, it does happen to be about 3 minutes! Consider yourself warned :)

no Friday Funny....

2011-03-25T10:03:00.004-05:00

....as we have been busy packing, organizing, cleaning, & preparing for VACATION!

I'll be honest, so much is happening right now in our life with both our families, listing our home, and looking for a new home that it doesn't quite seem like appropriate timing for a week get-a-way; however, we booked our wonderful 5-year anniversary trip last August & now it is upon us. (this coming July will be 5 years)

Rest, relaxation, beaches, hiking, reading, yet sadly, no Haven. Yep, our first big outing without our little Princess. Rest assured, Haven will have no trouble getting spoiled at Grandma Miller's & "Aunt Holly's" house but I will miss her. [deep breath, deep breath]

Anxious to know where we are going? Well, just you wait & find out! Here's a hint :)

dads - March update

2011-03-22T07:19:00.005-05:00

He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of miry clay, and set me feet upon a rock, and established my goings.
~Psalm 40:2~

The past few weeks have come & gone and yet our families keep trudging on...

trudging through the tears. the physical pain. the decisions.

My Dad's cancer is not getting better. It's not even slowing down. It is effecting him more & more each day.

This past week my Dad had an MRI done to see the extent of his cancer and exactly where throughout his body it is growing. Chemotherapy is no longer working as to each chemo the cancer has adapted to very quickly with his last PSA score reading near 120. The radiologist explained to my parents that Dad does need to do radiation treatment starting with several spots along his vertebrate as the mass is pinching his spinal cord. Other masses include under his left armpit, hip area, and upper chest area.

So beginning this coming Monday [3/28], my Dad will begin radiation for the next 12 consecutive days to hopefully ease the pain & discomfort he is feeling.
Yes, yes...don't worry the bright yellow truck is still rolling most mornings.
[random fact: their laundry room now matches the truck :)]

Also last week we received news that Arlan's Dad has kidney cancer and the tumor and right kidney will be removed this coming April 26 in Bloomington. While it has been growing right next to the liver, the doctor is optimistic that it remains only on/around the kidney and in the adrenal glands. Biopsies will be done during surgery to confirm this.

Papa has had a pretty rough winter with blood pressure troubles, extreme fatigue, achenes, and just not quite himself. He began doctoring several weeks ago and doctors were able to pinpoint it to his large tumor engulfing his kidney. He has good days & extremely frustrating days for a man who has worked hard all his life, in one gear (namely 5th), and thus he & Mom Miller are adjusting to this next step in life.

So yes, we are trudging along...yet with all this occurring, God's promises remain the same & reassuring as ever. Your prayers for our parents, their decisions, their pain/discomfort are so important & we continue to be so grateful.

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace & not evil, to give you an expected end.
~Jeremiah 29:11~