Brett, Holly, MaryMayes & Maddie

Christmas in July!

2010-07-19T11:00:00.000-07:00

WE ARE BLESSED!!!

Joshua 24:14
"Now fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your forefathers worshiped beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD.

We have been counting our blessing everyday! THANK YOU to all of our family and friends who have prayed, loved and wished the BEST for us during our seminary days and now through our transition in life! We feel VERY humbled and overwhelmed by the Lord's blessing on us! Please continue to pray for our trust in the Lord and that we don't listen to any worldly views on how we should live our life, but that we continue to keep our focus on the Lord's will for our life!

Let's catch you up: Brett got a job at Hope Community Church in Raleigh, NC as the College Pastor (check out their website: http://www.gethope.net). Such an incredible Church!!!! Can't believe we get to serve here!!!! MaryMayes became a big sister on April 16th (Madelyn "Maddie" Moriah), Brett graduated on May 30th with his Master's in Divinity, we packed up all of our things in Cali and shipped them to Raleigh, NC (where it is currently in a storage unit), sold my Acura Integra (so hard to part from). So we needed another car for our family and a beautiful couple gifted us with a minivan for free in GA. WOW!!! We had a blast with our family in GA for the month of June and now we are currently in temporary housing in Morrisville, NC(for free ~ WOW) until our house closes this Friday (finger's cross everything goes smoothly). We will be living in Cary, NC. We are excited about getting our things out of storage here in NC as well as back in GA that have been stored since after we got married and moved to Cali! It feels like Christmas to our family!!!! We continue to THANK AND PRAISE the Lord for His provisions and His love for us as we continue to faithfully follow Him.

3 John 1:3

It gave me great joy to have some brothers come and tell about your faithfulness to the truth and how you continue to walk in the truth.

Psalm 40:10
I do not hide your righteousness in my heart; I speak of your faithfulness and salvation. I do not conceal your love and your truth from the great assembly.

We are soooo EXCITED about what ALL the Lord has done, is doing, and is going to do! We look forward to sharing our continued adventure! PLEASE COME VISIT US ANYTIME!!! Our home is your home! The Lord has provided it for us and we feel it is a place to share with everyone! You have a FREE place to stay and would love to introduce you to the church.

We will give you our updated information hopefully this weekend! Pictures will be coming soon!
LOVE,
Holly, Brett, MaryMayes and Maddie

Then he said to his disciples,
"The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.
Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field."
Matthew 9:37-38

Carolina Dreamin'

2010-06-16T18:59:00.000-07:00

Well, first of all, we made it safely across the USA. Holly and the girls flew across country, and I (Brett) drove his car, even though when I got to GA I needed to get the breaks worked on. Praise the Lord I got there safe! We have been living with Holly's grandparents and the girls have enjoyed seeing Nanny, Big Pop, Gammy, Ganpa, mama, papa and all her aunts and uncles. It's been great to see them.

Right now we are here in Raleigh, NC house hunting. We've been here since Monday afternoon and we've been hunting for houses every day for several hours each day. As of right now, we have had no luck. We almost found a place, but we our phenomenal real estate agent did some work and found out some things that saved us a ton of money, and we were able to walk away. We've got one more day we think, and then we will get back to GA (we left MayMae in GA with Nanny and we really miss her). We are hoping to find a place to stay tomorrow (rental), while we continue to look at houses...so we'll see.

We're really trusting the Lord for a lot these days, but our faith is weak. Our prayer right now is, "Lord we believe, but help our unbelief."

Spoiled, or Befriended, rotten

2010-05-09T22:03:00.001-07:00

Here are a couple pictures of our daughter who is in the middle of all of her "friends", this after she just got four new ones from her Nanny and Aunt Lin Lin. She loves when we do this, and daddy is a fan as well.

Also, check out the picture of our new angel, we are calling "Maddie Bug." So, here is the the story behind those two names. We have officially confused MaryMayes, who knows her name well, but we have also called her "Nooni" and "Princess." Well, Daddy made the mistake of referring to Maddie as "princess," to which MaryMayes replied, "I princess." Daddy saw the betrayal in her eyes so we had to come up with another sweet name, so we chose "angel." Then, we thought that we needed to even things up and call her "Maddie Bug"...we know...we are ridiculous.

Madelyn Moriah is Here!!!

2010-04-22T07:57:00.001-07:00

Madelyn Moriah is here. She was born on April 16 (Daddy's bday too) at 1:07 p.m., weighing 8 pounds and measuring 21 inches long. She is a great eater, sleeper and pooper...pretty awesome so far. MaryMayes loves her baby sister, but she's a bit jealous. We are so blessed and honored by God's little miracle and the blessing to be the parents of two gorgeous and amazing girls. Mommy is healing well from her c-section, but she's got some pain when her drugs wear off. She's moving better and better every day though. Here are some pics for you to enjoy!

The Four of us!

Smile!

Sorry its sideways, its too cute to pass up

The sleeping beauty.

Maddie with her eyes open...not too common of an occurrence.

Some sweet daddy daughter time.

Great pic mommy!

Daddy is worried...Nanny is getting MayMae into toenail polish already.

MaryMayes is making sure Maddie is in perfect health!

#2

2010-03-19T08:08:00.000-07:00

Well, our little princess, MaryMayes, turned 2 this past Tuesday. To celebrate we had some of her friends and our friends to help us celebrate MayMae's two years. Our friend and old neighbor Megan made a beautiful (and might I add, delicious) Baby Bop Cake, which MaryMayes just loved. We socialized, let the kids run around like wild indians, sang happy birthday to the birthday girl, had punch, cake and ice cream, then had the birthday girl open up her presents.

It was a real blessing having our friends come over and celebrate with us. God has blessed us with great friends and relationships out here, and we're so thankful.

Uncle Dan and Aunt Jules.

The Birthday Girl with Uncle Dustin and Aunt Heather.

The Nooni with uncle David.

Diving into the presents

The princess opening a present with the help of Jane and aunt Shay Shay

Big D with his mommy, aunt Kiyoko

Look at that beautiful cake! Thank you Megan G!

Look at Holly's belly.

Gammy and Ga-pa

2010-02-21T10:40:00.000-08:00

We loved the fact that we were visited by my Mom and Dad, grandma and grandpa Durham, for a few days last week and the week before. What a blessing it was to spend some time with them, though the reason for their visit was sad (one of their best friends has stage 4 liver cancer and was at the City of Hope for several days during their visit).

We had a great time eating Mexican food (Holly is not a fan of Mexican during her pregnancy, which makes me a very sad individual), going to the park, talking about Talbot stories, taking them to our church and going to the LA Zoo. MaryMayes loved the Zoo, and talked about Tigers, Hippos, Monkeys, and 'Raffs for several days afterward. Another thing she kept saying, even to this day, is "Gammy?" and "Ga-pa?", wondering where they are.

If you remember please keep my parents friends, the McClanahan's, in your prayers. Pray specifically for the dad, Bob, who has stage 4 liver cancer, his wife and two adult sons.

Here's some pics of our trip to the zoo.

MaryMayes was very Excited to see the "big monkey."

Mommy, MaryMayes and Gammy posing for pic.

Ga-pa and the Nooni waiting for the ladies.

Someone was very excited about seeing animals.

Gammy, MayMae and Mommy entering the LA Zoo

We have survived the storm of the decade

2010-01-25T11:56:00.000-08:00

Well, as we watched the local news last week, you would have thought we were all going to die. One local newscaster even labeled the storm, "the storm of the decade," and taking place in January of 2010, he may be right.

Yes, it did rain. But, we do not know of anything that happened outside the state of California because this storm dominated every news outlet out here. Yes, there was some flooding, thunder, lightning, hail, and even a couple of recorded tornado's, but not around us. Yes, snow fell in lower elevation areas, but none around here...to Brett's dismay. Yes, you can see beautiful snow capped mountains for miles and miles, but you will have to wait in miles and miles of traffic to actually touch the snow. Yes, parents went crazy because they were cooped up indoors with their children who wanted to go to the park and play, and yes, I'm speaking from experience. So, we ended up going to Petsmart three times and another pet store once, for MaryMayes to play with the dogs, cats, fish, birds and other pet store animals. She talked about the dogs, cats and fish all week long. One morning, we even woke up to MayMae saying, "Rain?" "No Park?" "Me Pet Dogs?" It was cute, and made for a fun and interesting week.

Thanks to those who called or emailed to make sure we were safe and sound.

Georgia Holidays

2010-01-04T12:15:00.000-08:00

What a blast we had being back in Marietta, GA. When we left CA, the temperature was 77 degrees, when we arrived in GA it was 32 degrees and stayed around there most of the time we were home...it was a nice change. We got to see many of our friends, and being able to spend Christmas time with our families was really special. MaryMayes really loved seeing "Liv," "DD," "Emiwee," "Dames" (James), "Wiley" (Riley), "Soph" (Sophie), and she also got to meet a bunch of new friends at Aunt Gigi's house. She also got to see her aunts and uncles, which was a blessing for her and her aunts and uncles.

We are so thankful for all of the love we were shown while we were back in Georgia, we couldn't have asked for more. It was hard leaving our friends and family, but it was nice to get back to California to warmer weather and our own place. I (Brett) am starting my interterm class this saturday, and my ministry to the athletes at Biola is also starting back up this week.

We stayed very busy for the two weeks we were in Marietta, but still couldn't see everyone we wanted to. Please accept our apology if we didn't get to see you while we were back. We love you all and miss you very much.

David, Livie, James and MaryMayes "pose" for a picture.

BIG NOVEMBER!

2009-12-01T17:17:00.001-08:00

I am going to have a LITTLE SISTER!!!

LOTS OF FUN IN NOVEMBER!!!
We have had a tremendous November with many, many exciting things that have blessed our lives. In short we found out the sex of baby number two, we had the most powerful BAM meeting yet, Brett began meeting with two new students, we got a new supporter, we spoke at a young adults retreat in Big Bear, Talbot published an article about The Door ministry, and we booked our flights back to ATL for Christmas. Whew, it has been an awesome month. We are super excited about wrapping up this semester and Brett having one more semester and graduating in May. We are now on the hunt for a job starting in June 2010. If you know of any leads at a church needing an associate or college/young adults pastor let us know! We are looking forward to seeing where the Lord takes us! Can't wait to be in Georgia for Christmas!!!!

GO ANGELS!!!

MaryMayes and Raph love each other!

First haircut at 20 months!

FUN in Big Bear!

MaryMayes and her best friend Jane on Thanksgiving!

MaryMayes and her friends!

Watching the Tech game!

Taking our Christmas pics!

Posing

2009-10-14T07:03:00.000-07:00

Life these days is crazy, but we are very blessed! The Lord has been working on our hearts and teaching us more about Him, His Word and our character than ever. Just wanted to share a quick passage of scripture with you that has been very helpful to us lately, it's Philippians 4:4-9, which says:
"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me--put into practice. And the God of peace will be with you."

Good Stuff...Hope that helped you where you are today.

MaryMayes' poses these days when we ask her to take a picture, so cute.

Unfortunately, sometimes she poses like this. We have no idea what this is...other than hilarious.

MayMae actually saying "Cheese"

She wanted you to see her turtle

This is the picture where we knew she was tired of posing.

2009-09-29T09:58:00.000-07:00

Sorry everyone, I thought you could view the newsletter, but it turns out you have to have an account with Constant Contact to do so. If you would like a copy of the newsletter, let us know and we will add you to the list.

Thanks for your patience.

We survived the fires!

2009-09-13T16:13:00.000-07:00

We got several calls during all of the fires that were going on, checking to see if we were OK. The answer was a resounding yes, we never even smelled smoke.

I (Brett) started school the last week of August, which is exciting since this is the last year at Talbot. I've got a good schedule this year, Hebrew 3, Old Testament Survey, Field Internship, and Biblical Leadership & Management. Along with the help of a good friend, Phil Jensen, I am starting a ministry called "the Door." It is a sexual integrity ministry for men at Talbot and in La Mirada. We are very excited about the ministry, and our first meeting is the upcoming Friday. We are also still serving as the chaplain to the Biola Athletic Ministry, which has more students involved than ever before. This year should be very interesting.

A sad thing happened in our family this past week. My aunt Kevelynn Durham, wife of my dad's deceased brother, Bob, passed away on September 5, leaving behind three children (Jessica, 31, Susan, 28, and Donovan 26) and two grand-children (Kaylan, 10, and Andrew, 4). Kev was 54, and passed away from complications from a disease called Scleroderma.

I flew up to Maryland to officiate the service last week, and arrived last night. It was a difficult funeral since my cousins now have no living parent, and also because my father was in Columbia and was the one who officiated uncle Bob's funeral service. Please continue to pray for my cousins that the Lord would heal and comfort their hearts and draw them closer to himself.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NANNY!!!!

2009-07-22T11:50:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR NANNY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU! We love you Nanny and we can't wait to see you soon!

Funny Story...

2009-07-22T11:40:00.001-07:00

So...
Yesterday, the whole family went down to the pool, and had a great time. We came upstairs and Holly took MaryMayes' swimsuit off and let her run around necked...because she was up to something...and then she went and peed on the ground. We laughed, and went and cleaned up the mess. As daddy was cleaning the tee-tee up with the spot shot, mommy went to get some clothes for MaryMayes and throw the dirty stuff in the dirty clothes. Holly then turned around, and there standing in front of her was MaryMayes, looking intensely at her mom with her arm outstretched to her mommy...with a large log of poop in her hand!!! Holly and I both freaked and took the poop out of her hand and frantically looked for any other that may be on the ground, walls, or carpet. We cleaned up what we found on the ground and on the Nooni. We then went and sat on the couch, thinking everything was cleaned up. About five minutes later MaryMayes come back up to us and points to her foot, where there was more poop smeared on her and her stuffed animal, ironically, Winnie the Pooh. We found the little bit that was left on the floor and again cleaned up MayMae...and needless to say, she wore a diaper the rest of the day. And Thank You.

Just up the 101.

2009-07-18T22:03:00.000-07:00

We took a mini-trip up the 101 to visit Santa Barbara and Solvang this past week. I got two words for you...Awesomely Gorgeous. We went up on Thursday and came home late Friday night, but we were able to get some sand between our toes, water over our feet, witness some absolutely beautiful scenery, enjoy some delicious food, and then to top it all off, we got to witness our friends Owen and Molly Smiley get married.

The Nooni wanted mommy's sunglasses...we're glad Mom let her wear them.

I'm going to go on record and say, I (Brett) am the luckiest man alive! Look at those beauties!!!!

Got to love this pic, sitting on the beach, palm trees and the mountains in the background.

Mommy trying to persuade MaryMayes to get in the water. Not gonna happen.

Hiding under her protection, daddy. The Nooni was not a fan of that loud water that kept coming up on the sand.

Daddy trying to persuade MayMae to step into the wave. It should be noted that she did let the wave hit her feat...then she immediately screamed and fearfully dove into daddy's arms. I'm thinking sermon illustration...

Right in front of where we parked. Quite beautiful.

The sun setting on Santa Barbara, and our trip.

One of the cool windmills in Solvang, a beautiful little Danish town about 45 minutes North on the 101 from Santa Barbara.

Cool little phone booth in Solvang that Brett made Holly stand in...doesn't she look so happy!?

Sunshine and The Nooni

2009-07-12T22:36:00.000-07:00

The Durham family took a trip up north to visit our aunt and uncle in Rancho Cucamonga. We had a great time visiting with Lynda and Bill, and of course, Lynda made a great dinner.

Here are some pics...no captions, just pics.

Just Some Good Ol' Pics

2009-07-08T21:28:00.000-07:00

OH! (The Nooni's new favorite thing to say)

MayMae set Pooh up to watch her show with her. How cute.

This is what they were watching...the purple dinosaur from our imagination.

She caught me taking the picture.

Happy Birthday Grandma!

2009-07-07T16:41:00.001-07:00

We wanted to send a big HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO GRANDMA DURHAM!!!! Today is Grandma's 49th b'day (wink wink) and we wish we could be there to celebrate with you, but we took some pictures to celebrate this special occasion instead. We can't wait to see you in about three weeks! We love you Grandma!!!

MaryMayes is sitting in her new favorite place to sit...the stroller for her dolls.

She's so excited to see grandma in a few weeks.

Part 1: MaryMayes posing for a pic with Pooh...seemingly content.

Part 2: MaryMayes' frustration begins...of course she grabs Pooh...

Part 3: MaryMayes is finished with this photo session and has weapons...she throws Pooh at mommy who is holding the sign. All done!

Fireworks go Boom Boom Pow

2009-07-06T20:00:00.000-07:00

We hope and pray that you all had a wonderful and safe July 4th weekend and that you and yours are doing very well.

MaryMayes, mom and dad had a great time around La Mirada for the fourth of July weekend. In La Mirada the city puts on a fireworks display on July 3rd, and everyone comes out to the La Mirada park to picnic, play and then watch the firework display. On Friday night we got to hang out with our good friends Matt and Sarah Beth Getz before they move to South Bend, IN. We went to the park and then before the fireworks show we came home to give MayMae a bath and watch the fireworks from our apartment. MaryMayes loved watching the fireworks, though she didn't like the noise of the ones that some people were shooting around us. It was a fun night, and we will miss the Getz's as they leave for Indiana where Matt is going to pursue his Ph.D in philosophy from Notre Dame (He's smart). We are really bummed that they are leaving, but so excited for them and the little one on the way.

On July 4, Brian and Carole Hedrick came and had lunch with us to celebrate the fourth with us. We bbq'd (but I burnt the tri tip...boo!) and had way too much to eat, though it was all delicious ('cept the burnt stuff). We then went to the park to play for a bit, throw the football around, burn some calories, watch Nooni steal the football and run for a touchdown, and just enjoy our time with Brian and Carole. The Hedrick's are amazing people and we love hanging out with them.

It was a really fun July 4 weekend, though we did miss being around our family. Here are some pics for you to enjoy.

The princess was decked out in her blue and white stars with red bow. Yup, she's patriotic.

Such a princess...she loved being around everyone.

On the fourth, MaryMayes wanted to play football with Uncle Brian and Daddy.

She could...go...all...the...waaaayyyyy... touchdown!

Mommy, MayMae, and Aunt Sarah Beth.

Mommy and Nooni looking beautiful as always.

The Durham Fam in the La Mirada park to celebrate July 4.

With our good friends Matt and Sarah Beth Getz. We love them so much!

The three women in the park...MaryMayes wanted to join everyone's parties.

Aunt Carole chasing the Nooni around the park.

Our Good friends Brian and Carole Hedrick hung out with us on the fourth.

Uncle Brian helps MaryMayes understand the 626 Guard Trap.

Another family portrait.

Nooni loves her purse.

This picture cracks us up because when we bring the goldfish out, MaryMayes refuses to take her hand out of the container...she just keeps it in there with a big smile on her face.

"Dada, abeep poowow mana ooprah daw oop bah" she says as she plays with the camera.

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!!!

2009-06-21T14:17:00.000-07:00

MaryMayes, along with Holly and Brett, wanted to say happy Father's Day to all of the father's out there, but especially to Papa, Big Pop and Grandpa. We also want to say happy Father's Day to Uncle Fray, and to Uncle Mitch on his first Father's Day! We love and miss you all!!!

Disneyland and a Championship!

2009-06-14T21:53:00.000-07:00

Well, today was a fun and eventful day. We went to Disneyland for a few hours this afternoon, which was a blast and Nooni loved it! We rode a few rides, the Winnie the Pooh ride being her favorite. We also got our pictures taken with a few of the characters, but MaryMayes is not a fan of creepy people wearing furry suits...I'm going to say that is a good thing. But, overall it was a really fun time and MayMae really enjoyed herself...she even got daddy to buy her a stuffed Pooh (Daddy is already wrapped around her finger).

We ended the day with friends at our place watching the Lakers win their 15th NBA championship. Our great buddy David came over to watch what turned out to be the last game of the finals. We had a good time over some steaks, cheesy potato cassarole, salad and ice cream all while rooting hard for the Lake show. When the buzzer sounded, with the Lakers prevailing, 99-86, Brett started clapping and screaming, Nooni started clapping, neighbors were screaming, fireworks were going off...it was a good feeling.

Here are the pics.

Ahh...daddy loves this picture...they already bring a smile to her face. She's a keeper.

Yup, we are the champions.

The one and only...Pooh! OK, notice how Nooni is as far away as she can be from him...she's not a fan of the people in costume.

She still doesn't really know how to react.

MaryMayes loved looking at the boat and the baby duckies swimming around it.

Chip was trying to show MaryMayes some love...she had no desire to touch this oversized chipmunk.

She did finally pose for a pic...as we kept her as far away from Chip as possible.

Nooni was excited to ride Mr. Toad's wild ride.

Listening to the Disney Firefighter band...as you can tell, she was enjoying herself.

Happy Birthday Aunt Jai!

2009-06-12T13:27:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY AUNT JAI, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!
We love you Aunt Jai and we cannot wait to see you when we come back home!
~MaryMayes, Holly and Brett.

When Nooni was cooperating and sending her love Aunt Jai's way....

...getting annoyed about holding her sign...

...and we're done.

Attack of the Purple Dinosaur Sensation!!!!

2009-06-06T21:24:00.000-07:00

Well, the Durham family out here in Southern California has been doing well! We finished the semester up at the end of May, which was a breath of fresh air. Brett then went right back to school, and he is taking two classes this summer, Hebrew 2 and Church and Society (Ethics). In other news, Brett lost his part-time job at Biola due to financial reasons, though he is going to continue mentoring students in the ministry. In the face of being a bit sad because we lost the mentor program director position, God provided another position for us, this time as the manager of our apartment complex! We are very excited about this, and it will pay in the form of a sweet rent reduction. Our other ministry with the Biola Athletic Ministry finished up very well, and we will continue to meet with the local students throughout the summer. Holly has been doing well as a full-time mom. Our apartment complex has been a real blessing for Holly as there are three or four new moms who also live in the complex, and they get to walk and have play dates together.

The real update in our lives is the story of our princess. She is growing up so fast and mommy and daddy have their hands full. MaryMayes has some new tricks that keep mommy and daddy in stitches, like spinning around to the point of getting dizzy and falling down (she thinks its hilarious). She now knows how to open and shut the screen and glass doors to the patio, which sometime leave her on the outside looking in...literally. MayMae loves the "If you're Happy and You Know it..." song and claps, stomps and lifts her arms at the appropriate time during the song, while swaying back and forth to the melody (It should also be said that as Mom and Dad are doing other things, Nooni will come up to us and start stomping her feet making little grunts until we begin singing the song). And, something Daddy is very proud of, she loves to throw toys, balls, and stuffed animals all over the apartment (she's got a pretty good throwing arm...I'm thinking Olympics...2028 or 2032...keep your eye out). Another thing that has totally thrown mommy and daddy for a loop is MayMae's addiction to BARNEY!!!!!!! She loves that stupid purple dinosaur sensation from our imagination. So, all in all, she is our little princess, and athlete, and dancer, and actor, and entertainer, and drama queen, and diva, and sweet girl, and love bug.

We were blessed to have some former neighbors who came to visit us from St. Louis. Randy, Sarah and Charlie Larson stayed with us for a few days at the end of May, and we had a great time catching up with them. Also, MaryMayes and Charlie loved playing together, so much so, that when the Larson's left and MayMae went out to play in the living room, she was looking for little Charlie...but he had gone bye-bye. She totally seemed sad. Awe!

We're completely blessed with amazing friends and family, and God is continuing to work in and through our lives. Here's some pics to prove it.

She's a beautiful princess!

MayMae loves her golf clubs. If the Olympics don't work out, I'm thinking LPGA.

The Larson's and Durham's. Right to Left: Charlie, Randy, Sarah, Brett, Holly and MaryMayes.

Charlie and MaryMayes playing sweetly together in her room. They were so cute together.

Beware! Nooni knows you have a belly button, and she will find it!

MayMae striking a pose! Uh huh, that's your princess flashlight and you do look cute as you strike your pose.

These two sure loved playing with each other!

MaryMayes and Charlie getting sweet with each other

WOW!

2009-05-18T08:08:00.000-07:00

Yup, it's been WAAAAAAYYYYY too long since we've last posted an update. Please forgive us. Finals are this week for me, so I've been trying to study pretty hard. After Wednesday, we'll try to be good with the posts again.

On another note, we did survive the 4.7 magnitude earthquake that shook last night. Holly was pretty terrified since she was home alone, while I watched the book cases and lights all sway as I studied in the library. Crazy stuff.

Again, sorry for the delay in postings Missy, and others, the situations in life took over.

2009-04-10T09:53:00.001-07:00

Holly, MaryMayes and I (Brett) went out to Upland to get our taxes done a week or so ago. We love seeing our tax guy Larry, especially when he has good news for us (e.g. "you are actually getting money back from the government"). After our tax appointment, we were able to go and have lunch with Uncle Bill and Aunt Lynda.

It was an absolutely beautiful day so MaryMayes got to play outside a lot, which she loved (as you will see in the pictures below). We had the most amazing lunch that Aunt Lynda prepared and we got to enjoy good conversation. It was great to be with them, since we have not seen them in a while. They definitely take care of us when we come up there, and it's an awesome escape from all the responsibilities in La Mirada.

Here are some pics...

MaryMayes loved playing with Aunt Lynda's toys!

Who would have thought a bumblebee on a baby's booty could be so cute!

MayMae cracking herself up!

Aunt Lynda and Brett in a deep conversation.

She loves spoons!

Our little Monkey.

She loved that swing!

The view from Uncle Bill and Aunt Lynda's house.

The Zoo

2009-03-29T20:59:00.001-07:00

We took MayMae to her first zoo, just the small little Santa Ana Zoo. It's a cute little place that is very kid friendly, full of monkeys, and inexpensive. It was a fun little day, and MaryMayes absolutely loved it! The reason we went there is because MaryMayes had to get her one year shots, and she was sad so the zoo was the perfect pick me up. After that we went to Oggi's Pizza in Garden Grove, off of Chapman. My friend Byron owns the place, and if you want a great family friendly pizza place that is out of this world, with TV's everywhere, and a great menu, go visit this location.

MayMae is really growing up, and we can't stop her! She's starting to walk now on her own, which is so fun! She gives kisses, and "huggie, snuggie, wuggies." Mom and dad ain't doing so bad either.

MayMae doesn't know how to handle the stone turtle.

She's beginning to warm up to him.

Daddy tamed this killer stone lizard and MaryMayes decided to join my in celebrating my victory.

The deadly Stone Lizard before Daddy had to slay it into submission.

The Zoo had some amazing rides that MayMae loved.

I didn't know they had my relatives at the zoo, it was great to see uncle Larry again.

I think Daddy was more excited about the Monkey's than MayMae.

Beautiful flowers and two beautiful women.

MayMae did not want to be too close to the bushes.

What's that in the trees?! Is that a gorilla pushing a stroller?

Pretty bird, pretty bird...well, these birds were alive (Dumb and Dumber reference, sorry).

That's one big bird! MaryMayes was a little intimidated.

MaryMayes was ready to lead us all on a safari, but she got sidetracked by a dirty diaper.

MayMae's 1st Birthday Partay!

2009-03-20T21:35:00.001-07:00

Thank you to all my family and friends for all the sweet wishes, kisses, cards, love and gifts!!! I had a blast on my 1st birthday!!! Love and miss all my family in Georgia! Thank you so much Nanny for making it a very happy party! I had a BLAST!!!!

Aunt Lindy and Uncle Buggs...."Thank you for my princess chair...I read my books in my room"

Nanny and Big Pop, "I love my red chair....I read my books in it!"

Thank you Aunt Mere for my first purse!

MayMae's first baby stroller from her cousins David and Livie!

Baseball, Engagement, A.I. and Play dates

2009-02-28T13:02:00.000-08:00

Yup, none of that sounds like it goes together but that described our last week. Here are some pics to prove it...

Daddy teaching his daughter about the intricacies of the game of baseball.

MaryMayes checking out the Biola Eagles Baseball team in action against the Master's college.

Mommy and daughter at Jonny and Kim's engagement!

Jonny and Kim celebrating!

The crew at J & K's engagement in Corona Del Mar.

MaryMayes and her friend Noah (not pictured mom's Holly and Nicole).

MaryMayes is watching Clara closely as she plays with HER toy.

MayMae actually having fun with Clara and Kaylor.

MayMae asserting herself with her toys.

MaryMayes didn't know what to think about the girls playing with her toys.

Still suspicious.

Clara Bayless looking very cute.

Karen Bayless holding Kaylor Cordell

Heather Cordell chilling with Clara.

MayMae loves running around in nothin but her cloth panties.

Mommy and daughter watching American Idol.

Family Fun!

2009-02-27T20:38:00.001-08:00

Hello everyone! The whole family had a little outing to the Ronald Reagan Library on Friday and it was so beautiful! What an amazing museum and it was a beautiful day, and as you can see in the picture below, with the snow capped mountains in the background, we couldn't have had a better day.

Things have been going well for us. Ministry is in full swing and the Lord is really using us and teaching us a lot through the students we are serving. MaryMayes is growing up like crazy! We'll celebrate her first birthday in a few weeks on March 16. She's such a joy and make us laugh everyday!

Here's some pics!

Mommy and daughter looking beautiful

uh oh, snaaaaakes! MaryMayes ain't skeered! (Just kidding, there were no snakes.)

airforce one at the Reagan museum

The beautiful view at the museum.

Presidential Motorcade.

HAHA! she's so cute!

In front of the Berlin wall exhibit.

The view from the backside of the museum.

Just Gorgeous.

Rainy February Days

2009-02-08T11:15:00.001-08:00

Hello everyone, we hope everything is well with you! It's been raining here a lot lately, which we needed badly. We are having a good start of the semester so far, as Brett begins learning the Hebrew language, and taking a couple of other classes. The Biola Athletic Ministry, or BAM, that we are serving with started up this past Thursday, which was exciting. Holly and Brett have started mentoring students again, which has also been very exciting. MaryMayes is always on the go, always on the move, and always into something she shouldn't be in. She's learned a couple new things like in the picture below, and she's starting to sleep all through the night...what a blessing to actually get some deep, restful sleep.

We love you all!

Haha, this is face is amazing and gets us every time.

Ain't she cute!

The princess playing with her toys.

We've get lost in her cuteness sometimes.

All done! She wants more.

MayMae loves the southern California sunshine.

more hair raising pics

2009-01-23T10:33:00.000-08:00

Here's some pics we just had to share with you all. (BTW, this is three days in a row for you who follow regularly.)

The eyes!

Daddy don't look right, but MayMae looks cute as a little yellow jacket.

Daddy is one lucky dude.

Why? MaryMayes, Why?! (It's a play on words people.)

Mommy was having some fun washing the hair of M squared.

Mommy and Daddy got a little crazy with MayMae's hair...ok, just daddy.

MayMae Bye-Bye

2009-01-22T12:05:00.000-08:00

Here's a little video of MaryMayes being cute and waving bye-bye!

it's been too long...SORRY!

2009-01-21T16:26:00.000-08:00

Sorry it has been so long everyone. Since we have been back in California, Brett has started an interterm class (intro to world missions), we've visited the Nixon Library, hung out with a lot of friends, seen the new addition to our complex (baby Jane Swisher), Mommy & Daddy got to go out on a date while uncle Daniel and Aunt Julie babysat MayMae, we've been to Northridge every Sunday to speak at a church, and MayMae continues to get many compliments every time we go out.

OK, so here are a couple of pictures to check out of us since we have been back in CA. I tried to upload a video, but I had some complications. There will be more to come, and much sooner this time. We love you all!!!

Mommy, her baby, and baby's baby watching Praise Baby together.

Daddy and daughter reading a book together.

This is at the Nixon Library. Needless to say, the whether has been ridiculous out here...low 80's, nice breeze and clear blue sky.

Yeah, we thought this was cute and hilarious.

Fundraiser in Marietta on December 20

2008-12-08T15:25:00.000-08:00

If you have any questions about our ministry in California on Biola University's Campus...feel free to give us a call or email us ~ we would love to share with you!!! Merry Christmas and God Bless -
Brett ~ bedurham@gmail.com
678~772~7686

Fundraiser for The Durham & Davis Families,
Sponsored by Baa-Baa Clothing Co. ~ Hand Smocked

Host: Mary Elizabeth Ellenburg & Emilie Smith
Location: Emilie Smith's House
80 Polk Street, Marietta, GA 30064 US
When: Saturday, December 20, 9:00AM
Phone: 678-488-3848

Do you know Holly & Brett Durham?
www.brettandhollydurham.blogspot.com
OR
Do you know Katie & Donnie Davis?
www.letterstocatherine.blogspot.com
OR
Do you just want the chance to buy fine,
hand smocked children's clothes at wholesale prices?

If the answer is yes to any of these then you will want to be a part of this great fundraising event for these families!

Sponsored by Baa-Baa Clothing Co, this fundraiser will be a chance for you to buy fine, hand-smocked children's clothes at WHOLESALE prices.

All items are cash & carry. Over 900 pieces will be available for purchase! Available sizes: Newborn to size 10. Dresses, Jon-Jons, Longalls, Shortalls, Bubbles, etc.

Suggested donation for entry:
$5 per adult to get in to the sale.
100% of the proceeds of this sale will go
directly to these 2 families.

The sale is Saturday, Dec 20th from 9am-3pm at Emilie Smith's house on Polk Street in Marietta.

If you cannot make the sale but would like to donate or make a purchase with proceeds going to these families, please let us know. (For a $10 donation you can make an appt and purchase out of the Atlanta warehouse before the sale - email Mary Elizabeth to make an appt @ m_e_ellenburg@yahoo.com).

Please pray for both of these families. The Durhams are serving the Lord in California and the Davis family is praising God for their new baby Catherine who is surviving being born with a diaphragmatic hernia.

Please go to both blogs to read more about these sweet families and come support them at this sale.

Original EVITE: (copy and paste if you can't click on it!)
http://www.evite.com/pages/invite/viewInvite.jsp?inviteId=DAOOPCNYXTVTSMUGIHXQ&li=iq&src=email&trk=aei6

Turkey Day 08-MayMae's first!

2008-11-30T08:52:00.001-08:00

Well, our second Thanksgiving in California has come and gone. We had a blast over at our place, with seven guys, 6 women, two beautiful little girls, and a TON of food. We ate around 2:30 p.m. and got so stuffed! Then, the guys went out and played a football game while the girls chatted. It really was a fun day with so many people over here, we are truly blessed and we have so much to be thankful for that we take for granted on a daily basis.

Yesterday (Saturday) was also a blast, where we had several of our friends over to watch our good ol' southern college football teams play the greatest sport on the planet (sorry, I'm a bit biased). It was a good day for the Jackets (sorry Dawg fans), and a good day for the Tide fans as well (sorry Tigers). But, it was fun to scream and yell (which scared MayMae to death) for our teams with some other fans from the dirty south (We're only going to focus the "our" teams on those that are winning, my Bruins will have to get 'em next year...sad).

Here's some pics from turkey day.

MaryMayes decided she would kick back and put her feet on the table for her first Thanksgiving!

As you can tell, this turkey is not cooked yet so this is not a "V" for victory but a "2" for my second turkey ever.

Some of us at the table.

Dorothy and Lindsay grubbin on some turkey.

Auntie Vasha and MayMae, who ate her thumb for her thanksgiving meal.

This is Sarah, she's cooking Creme brulee...it was delicious!

Phoebe is such a doll.

Dorothy and Nate.

Dustin and Lindsay.

Matt and Sarah Beth

Vasha and Matt...it was a good day for them, as both cowboys and longhorns rolled (if you can tell he also had a Texas Longhorns shirt on as well). He had to rock both of them.

The Cole's...such awesome people!

Hot couple.

All the boys after our football game (LEFT to RIGHT: Matt G, Dustin, Silas, Nate, Brett, Levi, and Matt D).

Matt D and Sarah Beth probably hitting up the left overs.

All the ladies from Thanksgiving 2008 (LEFT to RIGHT: Vasha, Sarah, Holly, Sarah Beth, Dorothy, Lindsay).

It's beginning to look a lot like...

2008-11-22T09:15:00.000-08:00

...something other than 90 degree weather, everywhere you go. Doesn't have the same ring to it as the famous version.

Nanny and David came out to see us last weekend, and we had a great time! While they were here, our plans changed because of fires, but we went to Idyllwild instead, and had a great time because it is just so beautiful and a nice little getaway for us (especially since the air quality down near us was so poor because of the fires). It was great having them here, especially since it was David's first trip back since helping us move here.

Last night we had our big Biola Athletic Meeting, and it went really good. We had a bunch of new students and there seemed a great deal of enthusiasm for the meeting and as a result. My good friend Nick came and spoke, and did a great job. One of the other things we did was that we interviewed students on the campus and asked them a few questions about what they thought about the athletes on campus. It was encouraging and challenging and seemed to make the students think. Pray for these young men and women to continue to pursue the Lord in all they do, on and off the field.

It's almost the end of the semester for us here, and it couldn't come soon enough. It's been a really tough semester for us as a fam, and me (Brett) as a student, but God is so good and He has been our strength and comfort.

Here are the pics...

Cutest wittoe bunny on the pwanet. Even though there is a pumpkin in the background, this is not a Halloween costume, but a coat...yes, a winter coat. She's pretty cute.

Big Pop and M squared.

Nanny and MayMae just chillin in the sun.

Three beautiful ladies.

Beautiful...near Idyllwild.

Love this...

Smile MaryMayes!

That's one good looking family.

Mommy and MayMae.

What a great face MayMae...she was not a fan of the pics.

Look at that beautiful woman!

A big rock, I know, but it looks cool!

I got some beef jerky at one of these shops.

Diamond lake.

Sunset as we drove down the mountain from Idyllwild.

VOTE!

2008-11-04T09:36:00.000-08:00

BILLY GRAHAM'S PRAYER FOR OUR NATION

THIS GUY SURE HAS A GOOD VIEW OF WHAT'S HAPPENING TO THIS COUNTRY!
PAUL HARVEY'S ON- AIR PRAYER

'Heavenly Father, we come before you today to ask your forgiveness and to seek your direction and guidance. We know Your Word says, 'Woe to those who call evil good,' but that is exactly what we have done. We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed our values. We have exploited the poor and called it the lottery. We have rewarded laziness and called it welfare. We have killed our unborn and called it choice. We have shot abortionists and called it justifiable. We have neglected to discipline our children and called it building self esteem. We have abused power and called it politics. We have coveted our neighbor's possessions and called it ambition We have polluted the air with profanity and pornography and called it freedom of expression. We have ridiculed the time-honored values of our forefathers and called it enlightenment. Search us, Oh God, and know our hearts today; cleanse us from every sin and set us free. Amen!'

Commentator Paul Harvey aired this prayer on his radio program, 'The Rest of the Story,' and received a larger response to this program than any other he has ever aired. With the Lord's help, may this prayer sweep over our nation and wholeheartedly become our desire so that we again can be called 'One nation under God.'

If possible, please pass this prayer on to your friends. 'If you don't stand for something, you will fall for everything.'

One Nation Under God

Friends, Pun'kins and Lobster Enchiladas

2008-11-01T11:18:00.000-07:00

A bunch of pics for your viewing enjoyment!

MaryMayes' first trip to the pun'kin patch.

B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L

Can you find the real pumpkin?

The fam at the patch

Mom and Daughter at the pumpkin patch...just before mommy went crazy because her bottom was being viciously attacked by fire ants.

C'mon ride the train, the pun'kin train

Mommy and MayMae in front of a huge pun'kin.

a flying pumpkin!

the little pumpkin with a big ol' pumpkin

MayMae knows she's the cutest as she chillin in her vehicle of choice.

The ladies!

MaryMayes loves her uncle David and Aunt Sarah.

MaryMayes didn't know what to do with all of the people walking around us.

She's so cute!

At Halloween dinner, MaryMayes is looking over the menu. she decided on the Tequila Lobster Enchiladas, while mommy and daddy just went conservative with combination number ones.

MayMae is so happy.

Butt Pumpkin.

The Little Pumpkin.

Good dinner, huh?

Daddy having his head licked by his Monkey daughter.

MaryMayes and her two friends Caleb and Courage. Caleb started hitting on MaryMayes as evidenced by the next picture.

Caleb reaching out to his crush.

Another little boy, Raphael, hitting on MayMae.

Holly and Megan holding MayMae and her boyfriend Caleb.

Uncle Nathan and Aunt Danni love MaryMayes...and soon enough, MayMae will have a baby Swisher as a best friend.

Take A picture, it will last longer

2008-10-18T21:31:00.000-07:00

HAPPY FALL Y'ALL!

Just some pics we took of MayMae this week. We thought they were cute so we wanted to share them with you. Enjoy

She thought she might like the taste of the leaf...bad idea.

Adventures in Baby Food

2008-10-16T23:13:00.000-07:00

We wanted to post some pictures of how cute MaryMayes is when she is eating her baby. food...enjoy!

The approach...

...the taste...

...the result

Mom, what is this!?

The gag reflex

OMG, this is so, like, disgusting.

mmm...baby oatmeal.

just a cute pic of MayMae in the tub.

Thank you for your Patience

2008-10-10T12:38:00.000-07:00

For starters, I want to say thank you to all of you for patiently waiting for a post. We are sorry for the delay, life was very crazy the past three weeks or so since we last posted. We've had visitors from Georgia (Missy, Scott, Nancy and Lindy) and we had a blast with them and appreciate everything they've done for us!

MaryMayes is growing up so fast, and we can't stop her! She's starting to really eat those baby food veggies...she loves green beans! She is becoming more and more of an adult everyday. She's been having some small issues with sleeping, but overall we could not be more blessed. Holly is loving being a mother! She's also had the opportunity to minister to two girls with the Biola Mentorship program, and the girls on the sports teams seem to love her! But, Holly's favorite thing is being a mom and taking care of MayMae everyday. As a father/husband, it is so sweet to watch those two bond and connect on a daily basis. We are truly humbled by God's blessings.
School is going well for me, though it has been an extremely difficult week of work (three tests, three papers, a sermon, and research all in the same week, not to mention the steady flow of reading that is required). I'm not complaining, it is such a blessing to sit under these men and learn about God's Word. The ministry is going great as well. We've had several Thursday meetings now and there are about 1/4 of the athletes on campus coming now, which is a good number but far short of our goal of reaching every athlete. I'm meeting with several young men, athletes and non athletes, which has been a real blessing. This week I also started a fifteen hour per week part time job working with the mentor program on campus. This is something I love being a part of and it gives me a phone number on campus and an office for the students to have a a place to reach me at most of the time. It is a difficult schedule, and God is really allowing Holly and I to spend a lot of time together, while still giving us a great ministry and community in which to be a part.
We love you all so much, and thank you so much for your love and support!

Here are the pics!

MayMae lovin that little ducky.

The ladies have been tired lately.

Six Months of Big Gurl!

2008-09-19T21:09:00.001-07:00

Well, MaryMayes is now six months old (can you believe it!?) and today she had her six month shots. It was hard to watch but she handled it well. She weighed 16 lbs and 4 oz.(50%), Height was 27" (25%), and head was 15 3/4" (25%). MayMae also isn't feeling that good right now, she's got sinus congestion which is causing her not to sleep or eat well at all right now. It kills mommy and daddy to watch it.

Also, last night we had our first Biola Athletic Ministry meeting, which went very well. There were probably 40-50 student athletes there, a really good turnout for the first night. The meeting was worship focused, where we tried to "be still" and know that our God is with us and is the one and only God, deserving of our worship. Students wrote prayer requests on the white board, prayed out loud and in groups, and we were led in worship by a good friend, Ryan Marshall (who did an outstanding job). It was a great night and many students said they were impacted by the meeting. We hope and pray this meeting builds some momentum for the Lord to do some incredible things this year in this ministry.

Here's some pics...

She's Beautiful, She's Beautiful, She's beautiful, it's true!

The big gurl got three shots in her legs. She cried, but she was happy again in about five minutes.

Just chillin next to Moms.

She loves the Bumbo!

Commin right atcha!

Holly and MaryMayes had girls night with many of the girls at the old apartment complex. Here are Holly, Sarah Beth, Ingrid and MayMae.

Dorothy, Holly and Vasha.

THANKFUL

2008-09-15T15:02:00.000-07:00

Sooo....I have been pondering this word...
THANKFUL
alot lately.
It is crazy how if you keep this word at the front of all your thoughts...
all the negative thoughts pass away.
Try it! It's awesome!!!!
Pics will be posted soon!
WE LOVE YOU ALL!!!

WE MOVED!!!!!

2008-08-30T12:11:00.000-07:00

Oh yeah, MaryMayes is very excited about our new move to a 2 bedroom, 2 bath apartment that is still Biola owned (so the rent is cheaper) and it is also closer to school and on the same road we have lived since we've been here. We're still unpacking boxes and getting everything in place, but it's a small price to pay to be here. Here is our new address for you all to write down and remember:

14509 Rosecrans Ave.
Apt. K
La Mirada, CA 90638-3775

We would love for everyone to come and visit! So, let us know if you are coming out here and we'll have you over!

Teething and Retreating

2008-08-20T21:04:00.000-07:00

Well, as the title states, the beautiful little princess MaryMayes is teething right now, so sleep is a luxury around here. It is so cute to see her chew on the teething rings and anything she can fit in her mouth, but mommy and daddy have a hard time watching her in pain.

As for the retreat that I (Brett) got to speak at, it was awesome. I just got back today (Wednesday) after arriving on Sunday afternoon. As i mentioned, I spoke six times and the theme of the conference was on discipleship. Honestly, this had to be one of the most interesting events I have ever been a part of because of issues surrounding my preparation and my speaking while I was there. Going into the retreat, I battled the stomach flu for two days (and it took 4 to get any sort of appetite back), I had a bout with vertigo the day before and the day I was supposed to leave, and I had a 101 degree fever on Thursday before leaving. When I was there, as I began to get my appetite back, I started losing my voice and got a sore throat and chest cold. The last day of speaking, I coughed and my voice cracked the whole message. It was a very interesting series of events.

The retreat went well, there were about 50 students and 8 volunteers on the retreat. It took a while for the students to warm up to me (or get used to me), and by the final night God was doing some very cool stuff. God led me to speak about the Passion of discipleship and to share from Philippians 2:6-11, then to show a couple clips from the passion of the Christ, then to meditate on Christ and what he has done for us as they listened to a very powerful song by Todd Agnew titled, "My Jesus." I underestimated how powerfully the Holy Spirit could move, and he moved in ways I have rarely seen. It was intense and three students ended up making decisions to trust Christ as their Lord and Savior.

Here are the words to "My Jesus" for you all to enjoy and dwell on if you have time.

My Jesus by Todd Agnew.

Which Jesus do you follow?
Which Jesus do you serve?
If Ephesians says to imitate Christ,
Why do you look so much like the world?

'Cause My Jesus bled and died
He spent His time with thieves and liars,
He loved the poor and accosted the arrogant
So which one do you want to be?

Blessed are the poor in spirit,
or do we pray to blessed with the wealth of this land?
Blessed are they that hunger and thirst for righteousness
Or do we ache for another taste of this world of shifting sands?

My Jesus bled and died for my sins,
He spent His time with thieves and sluts and liars,
He loved the poor and accosted the rich,
So which one do you want to be?

Who is this that You follow,
This picture of the American dream,
If Jesus was here would you walk right by on the other side,
Or fall down and worship at His holy feet
holy

Pretty blue eyes and curly brown hair and a clear complexion,
Is how you see Him as He dies for Your sins.
But the Word says He was battered and scarred
Or did you miss that part?
Sometimes I doubt we'd recognize Him.

‘Cause My Jesus bled and died
He spent His time with thieves and the least of these.
He loved the poor and accosted the comfortable,
So which one do you want to be?

'Cause My Jesus would never be accepted in my church
The blood and dirt on His feet might stain the carpet,

But He reaches for the hurting and despises the proud
And I think He'd prefer Beale St. to the stained glass crowd,
And I know that He can hear me if I cry out loud...

I want to be like my Jesus
I want to be like my Jesus
I want to be like my Jesus
I want to be like my Jesus

Not a posterchild for American prosperity,
but like my Jesus

You see I'm tired of living for success and popularity
I want to be like my Jesus
but I'm not sure what that means to be like
You Jesus

'Cause You said to live like You,
love like You but then
You died for me

Can I be like You Jesus?
I wanna be like you Jesus
I wanna be like my Jesus

Here are some pics...

MaryMayes rockin here new ruffled outfit.

shake, shake, shake...

Them booty ruffles are too stinkin cute!

Brett speaking at the GSPC youth retreat.

Some of the students from the retreat.

Daddy and MayMae just loungin.

Happy Birthday Aunt Emmie!

2008-08-14T09:31:00.000-07:00

We just wanted to give Aunt Emmie a birthday shout out from Cali! Happy birthday Missy, we love you and can't wait to see you soon.

As a quick prayer request, please pray for me (Brett) this weekend as I am speaking at a church youth retreat where I will be speaking six times on the various aspects of discipleship. Unfortunately, Holly and MaryMayes will not be going with me (long story), so we are going to be missing each other a lot since this will be the longest time we have been away from each other...boo! Pray that I will be clear in communicating God's word, relevant to the students, that I would stay focused on the messages, and that God would use me to make a difference in every student.

Here are a few pics for your viewing enjoyment.

We survived MaryMayes' first Earthquake!

2008-07-29T17:23:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

Well, we did survive the first Southern California earthquake that Holly and MaryMayes have ever experienced. Although, none of us felt it because the three of us were out for a little stroll around the neighborhood and never felt anything. We found out there was an earthquake because, as we were walking, a woman came out of her house asking us if we felt "it." We were like, "felt what?!" and she responded, "the earthquake that just happened. It shook everything!" Well, we didn't feel it, there was no damage to our place, but there was a lot of excitement. There was some minor incidents at Biola, but nothing major. All said, it got everyone's attention, but did not do any significant damage.

MaryMayes is doing great! She's looking cuter than ever, talking, smiling, turning over and just keeping mommy and daddy very busy. But boy, is she cute!

Right now I (Brett) am preparing for a retreat that I am speaking at. I will be speaking six times and the theme of the retreat is on Discipleship. The Retreat is for a church youth group that a friend of mine works with. It should be exciting! Also, School starts up in a month and we are gearing up for some ministry. WE CAN'T WAIT! Please continue to keep praying for us to keep God first, to grow in our relationship with Him and with each other, and to become the godly parents God has called us to be!

WE love you all! Here are the pics!

MayMae is happy you've come to gaze at her pictures!

Oh man, this face just melts my heart.

our beauty!

That face!

Sheepies on mommy.

Daddy and Daughter!

What the doodle bug looks like when she's night night.

Look who has found her toes!

oh she loves her toes!

more toesies!

That hat is too cute!

Look at that wave crashing in the background, beautiful!

We met up with Jenni and Natalie Waters at Laguna Beach. Here's Jenni with MayMae.

MaryMayes with Daddy at Laguna Beach.

The boys from our Tuesday night small group.

The ladies from our small group on Tuesday nights.

Happy 4 Months MaryMayes!

2008-07-16T15:15:00.000-07:00

MaryMayes is four months old today!!! To celebrate, we got pictures for the people!

Here ya go!

2008-07-15T21:52:00.001-07:00

Today, Tuesday, the Durham family took a little day trip to Pasadena to hit up the famous Roscoe's Chicken 'n Waffles, to take a picture in front of the Father of the Bride house, to visit Old Town Pasadena, to see the Rose Bowl, and to visit one of the greatest Christian bookstores in the country (Archives). Here are a few pics for you all to enjoy!

Also, God provided $100 dollars a monthly support this week which was a true blessing! Keep praying because we need the prayers.

If you have not been, you are truly missing out!

Standing in front of the Father of the Bride house.

Holly was so excited to be standing in front of this house.

Soooo cute.

Self Explanatory, we're at the Rose Bowl.

Daddy and daughter at the Rose Bowl...for the first of many times

The Ministy God has called us to & our Need

2008-07-06T21:57:00.000-07:00

Holly and I wanted to let you all know how you can think and pray through something regarding what the Lord is calling us to here in Southern California. We would like to extend an invitation to all of you to partner with us in the Didasko ministry to college students. Being a staff member with Didasko ministry means that we are developing a team of people who will partner with us prayerfully and financially. This ministry will be our primary source of income, and our income comes from the financial contributions of ministry partners. Contributions to the Didasko ministry are tax deductible, and the IRS Tax Number for Didasko Ministries, Inc., is 752119874.

A lot of people are reluctant to give to Didasko because they have never heard of the ministry. However, Didasko ministries, Inc, have been around since 1974 when it was started by Dr. Dale and Mrs. Kathy Wheeler. The ministry is a 501(C 3) Non-Profit Religious Organization created to provide a basis for their expanding ministries. Dr. Wheeler is the president of Didasko Ministries, Inc. and professor of Biblical Languages and Bible at Multnomah Bible College and Seminary in Portland, Oregon. Didasko Ministries, Inc. is fully recognized by the I.R.S. and as such all contributions to Didasko are tax-deductible. This ministry is led by a board of directors who review all applicants, and those accepted are recognized as Didasko Ministries staff members and are supervised by this governing body. All ministry done by the Didakso Ministries staff is reported to the governing body by the staff member and a supervisor who oversees the ministry of the staff member.

Our ministry with Didasko will be ministering to and praying for the spiritual transformation of undergraduate athletes at Biola (17 sports teams and several club teams), in addition to mentoring several students from Biola as well (for more info on Biola or Biola athletics, www.biola.edu). Many of these students are struggling with pornography, drugs, alcohol, sex and many of them are unbelievers (admittedly and from the testimonies of their peers). We will be sending out a monthly newsletter (by email and/or USPS mail) updating you on how the Lord is working in and through our lives in the Didasko ministry. If you would like to receive a newsletter and have not been getting email updates from us, please let us know. Also, let us know if you would like the email, a hard copy via usps mail or both.

We are currently in need of raising $2200 a month to allow us to carry out this ministry. Breaking that down, we will meet our goal if around 100 people partnered with us at $25, or 50 people at $50, or 25 people at $100 per month or a combination of all three. Would you please consider partnering with us in this ministry with a monthly commitment of $25, $50, $100 or some other amount? Please let us know if you would be interested in partnering with us financially in this adventure the Lord has called us to for these next two years we are in seminary.

Feel free to contact me via email (bedurham@gmail.com) or phone (678 772-7686). I would love to talk to you more about this tremendous opportunity to impact the lives of college students in Southern California.

We love you all very much and we need your help, your love and your prayers!

Pictures galore!

2008-06-25T11:01:00.000-07:00

We have been having a wonderful time back home in Georgia and it has been nice to meet with students, friends, family and visit our old stomping grounds. God is teaching us a lot about ourselves, our sin, and how he promises to take care of his people.

Here are a bunch of pictures we have taken in the last couple weeks. A few of the pictures are from Fathers day, but they were too good not to put on the blog. Enjoy!

Uncle Mitch finally got to meet his little niece...he was excited, and so was MayMae!

Uncle Tony was loving his time with the little princess...

...then he rocked the uncle of the year pose with both of his nieces!

Uncle Scott began his quest for the favorite uncle award.

MayMae and Livie getting to know each other.

Livie said hello to MaryMayes as only a baby could! So cute and ha-larious!

MaryMayes was so excited to meet her Aunt Emmie, she started blowing bubbles!!!

D3 got to meet MayMae as well...he is a stud!

Holly and MayMae got to sit in the cockpit of the plane we flew to GA on. How fun!

Happy Fathers Day!!!

2008-06-15T20:25:00.000-07:00

We love you grandpa, big pop, and papa! Happy Fathers day!

It was my first fathers day, and it was awesome! We went to what we call our home church out here in California, Sunrise Church, and then went to Uncle Bill and Aunt Lynda's house for lunch. We had a great time with them and it was also a blessing to be back at Sunrise!

We are very excited about coming back home to GA in three days, and we cannot wait to see all of you! See ya soon!

My fathers day mug with my baby gurl.

A beautiful baby, with beautiful flowers.

These pics are so cute, they are of her on Aunt Lynda's hammock.

She loves the grass!

Aunt Lynda and MayMae just gazing at each other.

Just swinging away! Aunt Lynda has such a beautiful back yard!

She absolutely loves her swing!

She's so cute!!!!

June Bloom

2008-06-07T11:01:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!

Well, sorry we haven't posted in a while, we've been pretty busy. Mommy and daughter are growing closer and closer and MayMae is just getting cuter by the minute. She's talking a lot now, which makes our hearts melt. Mommy and Daddy had their first date night without the little princess, which was totally bittersweet. Mommy and Daddy went to eat dinner, than got ice cream, and enjoyed their time together...it was definitely needed. But, we could not wait to get back home and see our beautiful daughter who was enjoying her time with the Davis'.

I (Brett) have a tough summer class, An Exposition through Daniel and Revelation, which has been a challenge up to this point but nothing like this next week is going to be. Three large projects in the last week might be the end of me...or at least the end of my mind. So, if you would like, you can pray that the Lord would give me supernatural clarity of thought, focus and discipline (a few things I'm not real good at) and that I would do these assignments heartily as for the Lord.

Our good friend Dustin Reed just moved out here from Georgia to attend Talbot School of Theology, which is very exciting since we have another southerner to use "y'all" with. But, on a sad note, we are losing one of our closest couple friends, who are from Nashville, Jason and Lindsay Swain, who are moving to Anchorage, Alaska to go on staff at a church there. They will be moving while we are back home in Georgia, so we are pretty sad. We're going to miss them a lot.

For those of you who read this and don't just look at the pics (something I would totally do), I would like to ask you all to pray for us right now. The Lord is working in our lives and we are trying to know what direction we should take with our future and we have no idea. We are at another crossroads, and we are praying that God would light and direct our path. We have to make some important decisions in the very near future and your prayers would be greatly appreciated.

Here are the goods...

Look at that cute outfit!

Two Beauties!

Uncle Jonny with the princess. Uncle Jonny dropped in to give MayMae the cutest little outfit.

Mommy and MayMae

2008-05-25T17:53:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

Whew! I (Brett) am done with the semester...it feels nice. However, I do start a three week class starting on Tuesday, so that will be fun! MaryMayes, aka MayMae, or M&M, or Emmie, or M squared, has been growing like a weed! She's smiling a lot more now, she's talking to us all the time, and she's sleeping at least for five hours straight now.

Today we were visited by Aunt Diann, who's here visiting her mom (who also visited us) and dad. They live about 45 minutes away, so they came down to see the little princess.

Here's a bunch of pics of mommy and daughter, and some visitors! Enjoy!

Love that face!

MayMae looking all cute!

Cute Kiss!

Our little hood rat!

Mommy playing with daughter in the play yard...I wonder who is having more fun

Mommy and daughter watching the dancing with the stars finale!

The reaction MaryMayes gave when Jason Taylor didn't win!

The first SoCal thunderstorm for MayMae!

Grandma Bird hanging with M&M.

Auntie Diann with with the little booger.

Pictures for the People!

2008-05-20T13:22:00.001-07:00

Sorry everyone, I was not trying to be rude by posting the previous post. I had to turn in two large papers this morning, and I have to turn two more in on Thursday with my sermon sandwiched in between on Wednesday (tomorrow).

We love you so much and we hope you enjoy the pics!

Can I just say this might be my favorite picture of her thus far!

Mommy looking all hot!

She actually said to me, "daddy, where's my glove!?"

Check out the fohawk...MayMae thought she'd try daddy's haircut!

Big blue eyes...so cute!

Uga booga, coo coo, qee...that's what she told daddy.

Our upstairs neighbor and friend Sarah Beth with baby Emmie!

Wongu stopped by to say hello to the little princess!

Our friends Katie and Kevin with M&M!

Vasha and MayMae!

Quick Note

2008-05-19T12:29:00.000-07:00

Hey, thanks for all of the reminders to update the blog. It is finals week for me, and I have a TON to do, so I will post lovely pictures of MaryMayes when I get an opportunity unless Holly can get it done before I get the chance to.
Thanks for your patience and love for us! We miss you all and love you very much!
~Brett

Georgia on my Mind

2008-05-04T20:40:00.001-07:00

We were blessed to hang out with our good friends, and fellow Georgians, Brian and Carole Hedrick. To celebrate, we went for some beautiful southern cooking at Po' Folks. Delicious! It's such a blessing hanging out with them, and we have so much fun when we are together. MaryMayes seems to really enjoy them as well!

We are also looking forward to coming back home, since we just booked our flights back to GA for this summer. We are flying home (prayerfully) June 18 and staying through July 4. We cannot wait to see everyone!

We love you and would love to hear from you!

Three times in three days...you pumped!?

Daughter and Daddy

Baby's foot, daddy's hand.

Our good friends Brian and Carole Hedrick.

Carole and Brian holding the little princess.

Uncle Brian showing his skills.

Their Sorority pic

Our Prom Picture.

Naked Saturday!

2008-05-03T17:08:00.001-07:00

Please don't get freaked out by the title, it was only MaryMayes who had naked Saturday. Before M&M got naked, we were blessed by a visit from Lauren and John Fortney, who were in town for a conference John had in Dana Point. It was very fun catching up and we can't wait for our daughter's to meet!

We just had fun taking pics...enjoy!

Daddy and baby making faces at each other

John and Lauren Fortney visited us before MaryMayes' naked Saturday. They're so fun!

We sho is tired!

2008-05-02T19:18:00.000-07:00

So...
This week was tons of fun, but tiring. We had some rough sleeping nights, but two nights of five straight hours! M&M's cold is actually gone now and she's really developing that personality. She's been smiling a lot lately! SOOOO CUTE!!!

Mommy is doing great, her incision is 99% healed, and she's almost ready to drive again. She's getting a bit stir crazy, but she is really connecting and bonding with MaryMayes. It's so cute to watch!

Daddy has been busy this week with schoolwork and Talbot AS work. We had a banquet last night for Talbot and the whole Durham family was in attendance. It was very fun and some of the pictures below are from it...so...enjoy!

Yup, this explains our week.

What a fun picture!!! Feiser, the Parker's and the Durham's!

The whole family!

This man is a legend at Biola...Ron Hafer, a godly man and a joy to be around!

M squared with our good friends Kim, Bama and Feiser.

awe!

Look at that strong neck!

So cute!

She's finding her fingers!

From Sponge Bath to Big Girl Bath

2008-04-26T22:54:00.000-07:00

So...

Holly and MaryMayes are feeling better now, though M&M still has a little congestion. But, today was big, huge, monumental...historic even. MaryMayes had her first real bath today. Oh yeah! MM is crying a little less now, but night time is still tough. She is starting to see better and she is starting to lift her head a good bit now as well.

Last night we had dinner with our good friends the Swain's. Jason and I (Brett) have become very close in our time here at Talbot and now that Holly and Lindsay are both mothers, they want to spend a lot more time together. One of the cutest things from hanging out with them was there little girls, Ellie (3) and Savannah (2). Savannah, who just started speaking in complete sentences, kept telling Lindsay she wanted to hold the baby before we got there, and when we got there she ran up to us wanting to hold her ASAP. It was so cute.

Okay, that's all for now. I've got homework to get to. Here are the pics!

Just in case you didn't know, if you are a baby girl...everything will be pink.

Our Friends' daughters Ellie and Savannah...they were dying to hold MaryMayes.

Ellie holding MaryMayes.

The Hallelujah pose...she getting her praise on.

Daddy and Daughter.

The Cold Haven

2008-04-19T23:56:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! So, everyone in our family has had a cold this week...oh yeah, it's been a blast! I (Brett) am just now getting over it, but Holly is now feeling the full effects of it. MaryMayes is congested, so she's having some trouble sleeping, but the doctor said she will be fine.

We love you all very much and please keep praying for us, we need all the prayers we can get. We love getting emails from everyone, so if you've got time...shoot us an email or post on the blog...we'd love to hear from you and know how to pray for you.

Here are the pictures for the week!

She's looking to all of the folks back in GA!

Is that a smile?

Who dat takin' my piksure?

Someone is night nights!

Grandpa and grandma Durham with MaryMayes, so cute!

G'ma Durham and Eminem.

Good friends Jim and Rhonda Parker with the little princess!

Erin (and Missy), here ya go!

2008-04-13T13:37:00.000-07:00

So,
I was scolded by some for not posting in a week. Sorry, daddy was busy trying not to let diapers leak. Many tears were shed as Nancy flew back, while MaryMayes continues to feed and to smack. We had many friends this week bring us dinner, while the new mother just continues to get thinner. MaryMayes can't wait to see family back home, while daddy asks his profs to throw him a bone. The Durham grandparents came out from the A, while holding MaryMayes made grandma's day. The little Durham princess continues to grow, so please pray for us that we continue to know...how to love purely and to properly care, for this little blessing with the head full of hair.

Here are the goods...

Daddy's two beauties!

Yup, she'll kill me for this several years from now.

Enough said.

A Little Monkey!

Our little princess!

Too cute!

So cute, but she's got a little pillow head.

Our good friend and neighbor Nathan holding the beauty.

More pics of the mini celeb

2008-04-03T21:57:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Well, here's a little update on our little MaryMayes. I'd like to tell you all about these not so scary days. Little Eminem has been eatin, poopin, and feedin, while her mommy trying her best just to keep on healin. Daddy's made up all his work and he's back in school, but these classes and exams got him feeling like a fool. Nanny's still in town taking care of Holls and Brett, and she's scrubbing both the girls trying not to get them to wet.

PS- I failed poetry class...and will cease.

I absolutely love this picture!

Them eyes are beautiful!

Cutie pie!

Yes ma'am, you in the green...you have a question?

M squared in the hood!

Look at her on her little doggie boppy thing.

She's on her little play yard.

Sleepy head!

Matt and Vasha with the mini celeb.

Kasey Johnson, who brought us dinner took a pic with Eminem.

Yup, she's going to be a Laker fan.

Yup, she's a daddy's girl.

MaryMayes with Friends and family

2008-03-25T13:41:00.000-07:00

Update on MaryMayes: She eats, sleeps, poops, and cries (though not much...knock on wood). Oh, and she's so gorgeous!

Update on Mom & Dad: We are trying to figure out the schedule thing. We've had one bad night so far, so we are not complaining at all. Holly is moving around very well, and will be able to remove the bandages on Sunday. I (Brett) took my first mid-term exam today and I feel it went pretty well, but we'll see.

Again, here's what you really came here for...pics!

All the Jensen's with MM.

Christine and Eve Jensen with the lil one.

The Hedrick's with MaryMayes.

The Clark's with M&M.

What a sweet girl.

I just laugh when I look at this picture...her face is classic.

The Durham family.

Mom and Daughter.

A little angel.

Daddy and daughter

Love this pic with the robe.

Look who doesn't like bubble baths.

Giving you what you want

2008-03-22T13:37:00.000-07:00

We wanted to put some more picture on here so you all can enjoy, but we also wanted to give you an update on MaryMayes as well. We went to the doctor on Friday and the doctor told us that MaryMayes' Jaundice is at a level the doctors are comfortable with. So, we will go back to the doctor in two weeks but they are not concerned at all. She has been eating well, which is one factor for her doing better and she's been sleeping well. Holly and I are tired, as everyone has told us we would be, but having Nancy and Lindy here is helping us get some extra rest. Thank you for all of your prayers, and please, keep praying for us and MaryMayes!

Here are more of the goods...

Jonny's taunt to Scott in the competition for the number one uncle of MaryMayes.

This pic just makes me laugh. That's Jonny Parker and Kim Boiko with the lil one.

Her first bath at home

After a bath, Nan brushes her hair.

The princess sleeping on grandma nan

Pics of the lil' hottie!

2008-03-20T08:25:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting here sipping on my second cup of strong coffee this morning looking at the two most beautiful women in the world thinking to myself, "my days of good sleep are behind me! And that is OK since I get to be with these beauty's!" Holly and baby went home yesterday from the hospital, but we need to go back to the hospital today for a blood test to make sure MaryMayes' Jaundice is nothing to worry about any more. M&M is doing great, she's feeding well from Holly, and Holly is recovering well! Since no one really cares what I say here because you just want the goods (pics) I'll just say thank you so much for all of your prayers for us! We love you all!

Here's the goods...

Nurses Winnie the Woo, and Lekshmi with Holly as we got ready to leave the hospital

Getting ready to leave the hospital with the nurses.

Out the Door!

At the car

Aunt Lindy, M&M, and g'ma Nanny!

Dani and MaryMayes

Nathan and MaryMayes

Our friends and neighbor's Nate and Dorothy with the little princess!

SHE'S HERE!!!!!!!!!!

2008-03-18T12:57:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

Well, we welcomed the most beautiful little girl into the world on Sunday, March 16, at 5:17 a.m. MaryMayes weighed in at 7 pounds 10 oz., and was 20 3/4 inches. She is so beautiful and her name is in honor of Holly's beautiful grandmother Mary Shur. MaryMayes is very healthy, though she has a tiny bout with jaundice, but the doctors have said it is not anything to worry about.

After arriving at the hospital on Saturday around 7:45 a.m. because Holly's water broke, Holly tried really hard to deliver MaryMayes vaginally, but it just would not happen...MaryMayes is just too stubborn and wouldn't rotate because she was transverse. Holly had also pushed for so long that she was not in a place to push through labor any more. After all that, the Doctor's decided that a C-section would be the best way to go. The surgery went great, and Holly is recovering well in the hospital right now. We should be able to go home tomorrow (Wednesday).

And now, what people really want to see...the pic's!

Mommy right after we got to the hospital!

Mommy during Labor...charlie is comforting here.

mom & baby

Daddy and daughter

Beautiful!!!

Lindy Holding our little sweet girl!

Nancy and THE baby!

Uncle Bill, Tracy and Tyson with MaryMayes and I.

Our Friends David, Sarah and David, with M&M.

Come Baby come!

2008-03-08T22:04:00.000-08:00

Well, everyone, we are in our 37 week of pregnancy and Holly is ready for this baby to be here. We went to the doctor on Friday and the Doctor said that Holly's measurement was perfect, though our Doctor still thinks it will come early. Holly is having some swelling in her feet and her legs, but it is just water retention and not a health concern. So, we are excited, nervous, and anxious about this baby getting here.

Friday night we got the privilege of hanging out with the Carroll family, who are friends of ours. Holly has been in a Talbot Wives group with Melodie, and I have had class with Josh. They have three boys who are full of energy and so cute, Ethan, Ryun, and Aiden. We had a great time with them eating Chicken Enchilada's and just hanging around talking.

Today we had a double blessing! First, we got to see our good friends Katie and Kevin Kopp who used to live next door to us before they moved to Seattle. We got to see them for a little bit, but they are so much fun and we love being around them that we wished we could have hung out with them longer. But, they are coming back to SoCal in May because Katie is receiving her Ph.D from Biola, so we hope to hang out with them more then.

The other blessing for us was Holly's cousin, Frank Wilson, came up from San Diego to hang out with us for the day. It was the first time I got to meet Frank, and the first time Holly had seen him in years. Frank is in the Marine Corps, and about to go on his third tour of duty, and is in San Diego for some training before leaving. We went to lunch with Frank, Frank and I went and got some Ice Cream for the pregnant one, and then we all went to church, which was incredible. Keep Frank and all of our troops in your prayers, because whether you agree with the war or not they are still serving our country. Frank, we love ya brother and we are praying for you!

We love you all and we will let everyone know about this little bundle of joy as soon as we welcome he/she into the world.

Frank, Holly and I.

Here's a pic of Katie, Holly and our friend Dani!

That's 37 weeks!

More friends from the Baby Shower

2008-02-25T19:15:00.000-08:00

Friends of ours Peter and his wife Wangu. Peter has great taste in t-shirts.

David and Sarah Ferraro with us!

Love these folks! Jonny Parker (UK-J) and his girlfriend Kim Boiko, or just Boiko.

Our friends Nathan and Danni who also live in our apartment complex.

The house where we had the shower was where our friends Katie and Jen live.

Nate and Dorothy Rigby with us. They live right next door to us on one side.

Shawn and Reesa live on the other side of us.

Us and our friend Rhonda Parker (her husband Jim had to leave early).

More Shower Pics

2008-02-24T15:45:00.000-08:00

Matt and Vasha Davis co-hosted the shower with our Aunt Lynda.

Us with our friend June!

Our Neighbors and friends Dan & Julie Richardson

This is us and Brian and Carole Hedrick, our Georgia friends who live out here and keep us rooted in the South!

Here is a picture of us with Andrew Yee (He's the Talbot AS President).

A Baby Shower: Couples Style

2008-02-23T21:31:00.000-08:00

We had our couples baby shower today, hosted by Aunt Lynda and our friend and neighbor Vasha Davis. The Baby shower was at the house of some friends of ours Jen and Katie. We had an incredible brunch that our Aunt Lynda prepared, with casseroles, monkey bread, fruit, Peach & Praline Fre]nch Toast casserole, quiche, and other delicious food. Vasha did a great job with the decorations, and God really blessed us with a beautiful weather.

The shower started with Aunt Lynda opening us up in prayer, and then it was time to get our grub on!!! After we ate we opened our gifts, as I (Brett) made a fool of myself as I didn't know what things were for, and if onezies were actually for both sexes. After that embarrassment, we were able to take pictures with everyone individually, while the others who weren't in the pictures wrote Holly and I sweet notes of encouragement. We were so honored to have so many of our closest friends at the shower, who were so gracious with the gifts they gave and their kind words.

That is a Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim onezie!!! Oh man, so cool!

Danni and Andrew scanning the amazing food that Aunt Lynda made that had everyone going back for seconds...or thirds!

Vasha, Holly and Katie at the Shower!

Rhonda, Aunt Lynda and Jen!

Holly and Carole...love it!

Holly and Sarah...so cute!

Friends!

Just call Me, "Huggy Bear"

Funny Story

2008-02-11T09:46:00.000-08:00

As comical as this might sound, we had car trouble again this weekend. We were on the freeway on Friday and we were stopping pretty hard, and lo and behold, are breaks were barely working and the steering wheel was shaking very badly. Now, I know what many of you are thinking right now..."Brett, you have got to take care of that wife of yours and your baby that she is carrying!" I know, I know, I felt the pressure too. So, yesterday we did not go to church and took our car to the shop to get the breaks, tires and alignment looked at. (Quick note: I have changed the breaks, rotors, fluid, and tires on my vehicles before but because of where we live and what little tools we have, it makes it quite difficult to do the necessary repairs...so I feel I am still being a steward of what God has given us by taking it to a shop.) Well, earlier in the week Holly and I were given a $500 gift for "immediate" use in preparing for the arrival of the baby. I don't know much that is more important than having a safe vehicle for the baby to ride in, right? All that to be said, the bill for the work was $493.98, which caused both of us to burst out laughing because God completely provided us with the ability to pay for the necessary work with some money to spare. God is in control and He is the Great Provider who takes care of His children.

Praise be to the LORD God, the God of Israel,
who alone does marvelous deeds.

Praise be to his glorious name forever;
may the whole earth be filled with his glory.
Amen and Amen.

~Psalm 72:18-19

Please read and post!

2008-02-07T21:39:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone!

We are sorry it has been a while since we updated the blog. There has been a lot of stuff going on in our lives lately. I (Brett) started school last week and I'm taking three classes (Tuesdays-Thursdays) and it seems like it is going to be a very exciting semester. I'm taking Exegesis of the Epistles (Greek), Pastoral ministry, and Expository Preaching.

JUST FOR FUN!!!!! OK, we want everyone who reads this blog post to post a comment on whether you think our baby that is due March 28 is going to be a Boy or a Girl! We would love to hear what some of you are thinking. So please post your thoughts!

Holly and I have been pretty busy as well because we have been taking some great classes. Tonight we just got back from our child safety and CPR class, which was very informative and will be great to know, God forbid anything happen to our child. Every Monday night we have been taking Child Birth preparation, which has really been fun because we have an awesome teacher (who told us she loves Jesus when she heard we were at Talbot) and we've met some cool people in there as well. The class, "how to properly breastfeed your child" had some great information, and was especially meaningful to me. Next Wednesday we have our Baby basics class, which is designed to help with everything we need to know about being parents. After all these classes, Holly and I feel prepared to be parents...then we actually think about being parents and we feel completely unprepared all over again.

This week we had the opportunity to see our former neighbor, Sarah, and her three month old baby, Charlie. Holly and I really miss Randy and Sarah, and when they moved to St. Louis, Sarah was pregnant with Charlie so it was great to see both of them doing well! Another couple that we are friends with, Dana and Jeremiah, just had their first baby this past Saturday. They named the baby boy, Luke Scott Ebeling.

Holly and I are so excited because we have two showers coming up that people are throwing for us. The first one is this coming Monday, and is going to be at Biola, and will have a lot of Holly's co-workers, our friends, classmates and some of my professor's. The next shower, which is on February 23, is being put on by our Aunt Lynda and our good friend Vasha Davis (who lives two doors down from us). This is a couple's shower, so it will be a bit longer and have some of our friends and family from all over . We are so humbled to have friends and family who want to do this for us and we feel truly blessed.

Praises: We want to give God praise because we have seen many people give to the didasko ministry already. We have had great health so far during the pregnancy, and we thank God for this. We want to give God praise for recently reassuring us of the calling He has placed in our lives to be here at Talbot. We thank God for the great friends we have made here. We want to give God praise for some out-of-nowhere financial blessings he has given us lately. We want to give God praise for allowing our car to get fixed.

Prayer Requests: Please keep praying for our support raising, that we can reach our goal quickly. We've seen some recent responses, but we have not done as much lately because of the start of school. Pray for the baby to be healthy and to become a man or woman of God. Pray for Holly's strength as the baby and her belly are getting bigger and bigger, and heavier and heavier. Pray for easy labor. Pray that I (Brett) would honor God in my studies. Pray that God would help Holly and I become the best parents we can be. Finally, please pray that God would give Holly and I wisdom for some decisions we need to make in the near future.

God is so good and His blessings are so far beyond our comprehension. We miss you all and PLEASE LET US KNOW HOW WE CAN PRAY FOR YOU!!!

Holly practicing to be a mommy! Thanks to Mama and Papa for the stroller and the car seat that Holly is modeling for us so well.

Look at that 33 week belly! What do you think? BOY OR GIRL??? Post and let us know!

Our friend Sarah and her three month old Charlie visited us this week. They used to live above us but now live in St. Louis.

God Has Plans

2008-01-17T21:25:00.000-08:00

Holly at 30 Weeks!

Well everyone, I must start this little entry by saying that Holly and I know without a shadow of a doubt that we are supposed to be in California, attending Talbot and we are excited about what God is doing and will do in and through our lives. Now, that being said...Holly and I are dealing with some difficulty. As some of you have heard, Holly's car was stolen the other day right from out in front of our apartment. As of today, we have not heard anything from the police and the car is still missing. We had liability insurance on the car due to the fact that Holly only drove it to and from work only about three times a week, and we are waiting to get the police report to give to the insurance company to see what they have to say. We are down about this because right now Holly and I are riding to work and school together every day, but after the baby comes, things might get a bit more complicated. But, we know that God is in complete control, God's Word says that He will repay the evil done, so we are trusting in these things.

Please keep praying for us as we raise support. We've got some good responses so far, but we still have many responses still out there so we hope to hear back from many people soon. Please also be praying for the little baby growing in Holly. We went to the doctor today for a check up and the baby seems to be in great health, and Holly is doing great as the doctor said that Holly is gaining weight at a perfect rate. So, that's awesome!

We miss and love you all!