BIG LOVE BLOG

A short documentary about a place I love dearly....Addis Ababa

2011-05-15T13:36:00.000-05:00

The City of Addis - A short documentary from Session 7 Media on Vimeo.

Stories of Faith - Christine Caine

2011-01-25T16:55:00.000-06:00

If you are a Cape G person this is the weekend to visit LaCroix church if you are not already going. Christine Caine will be here from Australia to speak about the injustices of sex trafficking in the world. I heard her speak at the Global Leadership Summit and hands down, the best, most passionate speaker there in my opinion. And there was some serious competition in that arena.
Become aware of what is happening in the world around us. I love being a part of a church that stand for those who need a voice! If you are a local, consider LaCroix. Amazing things are happening there and God is in all of it!
Her story in the video above...and what a story.

Change

2011-01-17T13:18:00.003-06:00

Today we remember Dr Martin Luther King Jr. Wouldn't it be awesome to be able to sit down and have a conversation with him? Why was he so committed to the cause? What made him take action when so many people looked the other way? Even people who hated what was happening...What made him stand so firm for what he believed in? Guts? Yep, but so much more than that. A passion for justice and equality? Yep, but more than that also. I personally believe it was his deep relationship with God and his unfailing desire to see change....SEE CHANGE.
How crazy the stuff we fill our lives with...Do these boots match this dress? -CHANGE- Should I buy some more stuff? Wow, I feel terrible that I have missed so many days at the gym. I should really get my butt back there. -CHANGE- I will do it..Tomorrow. I am just tired today and too busy with all of my other distractions. -CHANGE-Who are my friends? Real friends, Who can I trust? Are my kids happy? Am I a good mom?-CHANGE ALREADY!- Wow, I am kind of wandering around aimlessly today, better go to Target and get some more stuff. When I am not sure what to do Target is always the answer. _COME ON!-The days and weeks just seem to slip by and it is like I am not even in the moment. I am so DISTRACTED...I AM SO VAIN....I AM SO RIDICULOUS.
Really? Yes, it is me from time to time. Weight is something I don't spend time stressing about-but I know a lot of you can add that to your list. I have so so many more for the list, that I am not willing to post.
All of these useless distractions we focus on as time passes us by....People are dying, hurting, sad, starving, and lonely...and we worry about this stuff.
I have my own dream also...I don't want distractions to rule my life. I want to take MORE action and I WILL. Join me and let's agree to open our eyes to what is happening in the world-even with the pain, & stop focusing on our stuff. WE CAN CHANGE THE WORLD...What is holding you back?
Random Thoughts and All-

Be Merry and Bright!

2010-12-17T21:28:00.015-06:00

Wow, I am on a real role here! Have so missed blogging but life has taken on some BIG changes for the Becking crew! First, let me say to the three readers still following us....MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Second, GOD IS HUGE!
I know I have said that many times before, but at a whole new level I have seen God work in our family's lives over the past 4-6 months. I don't think I ever try to give the impression that my life is perfect! ha ha Anyone who knows me at all knows that! Like any family, husband and wife, partnership, team- there are always issues that without being dealt with-can take you out...Like completely out. I am guilty...of not dealing with my junk. Anyone know where I am coming from here?
Well, God has had another plan in mind for me....So over the past 4-6 months, we have been slowly, surely, fearfully facing tough stuff in life...
Sometimes simple choices I have made as a mom, a wife, a friend...Has been to NOT face me stuff.
God's plan- like I said, was different for me...He had a plan to force me into a new place. God brought some new people into our lives as a family...I think honestly, people I had been praying for without knowing it for years.
It has been awesome, scary, miserable, REAL, and pretty much every other emotion available at times!
But, here we are in a new place, yet again watching God carry us through!
So much has happened since I last blogged....like God has done some crazy awesome things-not without some pain.

Bianca turned FOUR! She is truly just unbelievable. She blows my mind with some of the stuff she says.
She prays at dinner and not too long ago...totally out of the blue, and at a pivotal moment for me...She started her little prayer and said this...."God, thank you for THIS LIFE."
Ughhh. hit me like a ton of bricks. This LIFE...This one...The life we get to live RIGHT NOW...AS IS....without all of the changes we are moving toward...Even in the middle of the funk.

Wow, she teaches me stuff every day.

Then there is Solie....The little rocker. That kid has a glow about her that rocks my world. She is happy happy joy joy...Unless you cross her...So, just don't...It's not worth it! A determined blissful little girl with a huge heart for love- That is Sol in a nutshell. I cannot believe how quickly time has passed since she has been home.

I have started to work again! I know-Can you believe it? We have had an awesome mentor come into our lives and over time we decided to start a company together. It is very exciting and just so right in general. I will post more about it at some point. So, I am working a few days a week while the little crew goes to their little kid school. I have missed using my business mind, and slowly but surely I am getting back in the swing of things! What an awesome thing that is happening.

Eric and I have committed to really work on making a better life for our family. This includes dealing with our "baggage" in life. And while it has been a tough road....and we continue on it- I am thankful God brought us to this place. The NEXT 14 years of marriage will be even better. We are learning to better communicate and to just be better for ourselves and each other. It is freeing! I am not going into any more details here because this is our story and we want to keep it that way. But we are happy to have each other and thankful God has given us THIS LIFE.

I have been a part of a new and kinda life changing small group...We just completed the book Radical by David Platt....And wow, have I been knocked out by it. I am ready to get back to travel this year, and waiting to see where God takes me.

Awesome, Awesome stuff happening through our church. Last weekend over 2000 volunteers helped pack over 500,000 meals for Feed My Starving Children....AND NO THAT IS NOT A TYPO---500,0000 meals for people in desperate need.
If you live in our small town and do not have a church that blows your mind...YOU NEED LaCROIX! Please come and be a part of what God is doing there. I have never had such a deep love for a church in my life and so thankful God put us there!

On the missions thing...I have not totally understood it, but God had plans for me to be grounded for the last couple of years. I have so so missed being able to go to Africa and really soak in my passion. Lately, I feel a bit of a release from that. And I am open and ready to see where God leads me. Also, on the same note, I have other passions in life that I have realized or should I say re-ignited and am LOVING it!

I have good people in my life....Like really good people. Man, I do. Unlikely friends from all walks of life...It feels right. How great it is to have peeps you can totally count on and love. You know who you are...BIG BIG LOVE to you guys.

Pretty humbled over the past months as I realize God is really ALWAYS here for me and He shows up in many many different forms and faces.
I am going to post a few more things on the book Radical also...If you have not read it and you are ready to step out there...way out there-GO FOR IT!

Happy-deeply happy to see so many people in our lives choosing adoption. Friends are bringing home their kids, getting referrals, making the decision to move forward on their dreams! Wow, you have no idea what is in store-happy for you.

Okay, and of course what you are all waiting for...Pics of the girls!!!! (Thank you Cheri for shooting our fam for the holidays. Love you_)

HALLOWEEN! Bianca the winning costume extraordinaire! LEMONADE STAND!!! All her idea! Solie the little Rocker!

Summer Fun with Little Peeps we Love

2010-08-18T23:15:00.019-05:00

At long last! Momma found the camera cord! So here a just a few pics of our summer!
FAMILY TIME AT THE POOL!!! LOVE IT!

Okay, you really have no idea how long it took to get this quality photo! The girls hanging with some of their favorite dudes at Aunt Candy and Uncle Mark's house. We had a ball with them.

You might wonder if Bianca is wearing makeup here...Why yes, yes, she is...Thanks to Auntie Candy...Bianca went downstairs to hang with her while I was getting ready, then the next thing I knew there was this tiny grown up at my feet claiming to be my kid! Just hurt me to see her like this...sob, sob! Lookin way too grown up!

Bianca's first BIG EVENT! Mae Mae invited Bianca to go see Dora at the Show-Me Center. This was their big day! What a hoot! They were pumped!

I hope everyone who reads my blog had an awesome summer with the people you love. Life is short, so always GO BIG! Take in the sunshine, roll your window down and soak in the pure bliss of summer!

Future Olympian, Bianca Becking!

2010-08-07T22:38:00.000-05:00

Here is a little of what we have been up to this summer....Okay, A LOT of what we have been doing! Bianca has become a total rockstar swimmer. She is three and can dominate the swimming pool without floaties!!!! Love it. Awesome goal achieved! We still use the little life savers on occasion but so great to see her swim all on her own! This kid is driven. When I asked her a few weeks ago if she wanted to jump off the diving board without her floaties, she said, NO. I said, "okay, no biggie. We will try it some other time." In two more seconds, she responds-" Actually (one of her fave words) I am going to choose...and I can change my mind. I want to do it!" And that was the beginning of a whole new world for her. Once she did it once, she had to do it over and over and over again...Can you imagine? And of course daddy was there with his near worshipped iphone to capture it.

Wise and Honest Friends...

2010-07-30T13:57:00.013-05:00

A quick Big Love shout out to Simply Stated for the new shots of the girlies! I know I have been bad about posting photos, but more to come very soon!

I have been amazed by the emails I have received by some of you who read my last post. So, Yes, I am a freak for putting my thoughts out there so naked and unedited!And thank you to those of you who have embraced my inner freak show!
I am actually in a good place. A place I need to live in a higher percentage of my life. UNCOMFORTABLE!!!
I want to post something a wise and deeply loved friend of mine sent me that she wrote during a time of major GOD sized life change for her and her family. It moved me, to the core. So, thank you Jeanne. You are loved. And I know your words will speak to others who read this.
I know so many of you emailed or commented about being in a similar place right now, so let this give you hope and a new focus, and BE READY....Because CHANGE IS GONNA COME!

LEAVING COMFORT FOR COURAGE

Courage will always require an element of leaving. Leaving is just plain
hard. When My 3 year old knows I’m about to leave he will often squeeze as
hard as he can around my neck to lovingly manipulate me into staying one
more minute.

I know how he feels – because leaving comfort for courage makes me want to
wrap my arms around every ounce of safety in my life – hoping if I hold on
tight enough that I won’t have to taste the pain of the leaving what I know
is inevitable.

Leaving comfort and safety looks and sounds alluring and attractive - but
the attraction fades quickly – in fact I have never felt so vulnerable,
small, and needy…. words that are not known for their alluring appeal.

Moving from comfort to courage will…
cause you to question your decision.
It will cause you to look around for the safety bars, seatbelt, and any kind
of security button.

Moving from comfort to courage will…
cause you to try to make something happen… scheme, make phone calls, send
out hail mary e-mails– anything to distract from sitting in the fear.

Moving from comfort to courage will…
cause you to doubt your abilities – you will look at everything that you
have failed at in the past… failed relationships, failed financial
decisions, failed leadership calls, - and you will wonder will you repeat
those patterns and are they indicators to go out and look for comfort again.

Moving from comfort to courage will…
cause you to doubt the author of the calling on your life. Thinking that God
is too busy to take care of your little fear

Moving from comfort to courage will…
cause you to be jealous of your neighbors who seem to be perfectly content
with their lives – you will wonder if you are some sort of crazy person that
has a unhealthy propensity to live on the edge.

Moving from comfort to courage will…
cause you to look for the easy way out.

Moving from comfort to courage will…
cause you to pray like never before… wonder if you know any scripture to
cast out the inner demon of doubt.

Moving from comfort to courage will…
cause you to white knuckle yourself around anything that feels secure and
semi safe – even though you know earthly security and safety is a mirage and
the place where Jesus is, is most where you want to be.

Moving from comfort to courage will…
Cause you to feel weak in the knees – a good indicator that you should stop
standing up and get ON your knees..

Moving from comfort to courage will…
Cause others to question you… especially those that have found security to
be a bedrock to build their lives on. You will be misunderstood, questioned,
and perhaps even seen as foolish.

So today God I feel every one of these fears. I am terrified… straight up
terrified. I am calling out to you to be a voice of truth and freedom. Tell
me to settle down, to trust you and to release every one of these fears into
your arms of faith. I know it is impossible to invite others into a life of
obedience if I am unable to live it myself – so today I am re-upping my
commitment to obey and be faithful.

Thanks again Jeanne-

"Scared," by Tom Davis

2010-07-25T15:04:00.000-05:00

Check this out! The award winning author of the book Scared is scheduled to come to Cape Girardeau to speak early October. Go out and get this book if you have not already. It WILL rock your world. An if you are a local..or not, don;t miss this event where Tom Davis will speak live in Cape Girardeau! I will post more details of date and location coming soon...But in the meantime----read the book!!!!!!

Precious...

2010-07-12T09:48:00.002-05:00

Okay, so I am a totally crappy blogger lately....I know no one really cares when and if I post and I am sure our followers have diminished over the past months. I guess I have been in a bit of life limbo....Not mid-life crisis just yet, at least I think I am totally not old enough for that! I have not been in a funk, but in just what I feel is straight up limbo.
You know what it is like to have dreams...real dreams for your life? Well, I seem to have accomplished mine up to a point and then I kind of got apathetic. And apathy is not the best word for it....Maybe just lost a little. I have dreams...big ones. Ridiculous ones...And I guess I had kind of let my mind go to the place, you know, where you start to believe like most of the people you tell your dreams to...that they are in fact, RIDICULOUS. So the funk has gone on for a few months, and now I am making my come back.
I guess honestly, I am still sorting out what it is like to be a mom of 2 awesome girls, a wife, a daughter, a friend, a lover of God, an entreprenuer, a dreamer, and do-er for Africa and everything else big in my heart.
I have had very wise people remind me that it is all a journey, and life takes some unique turns we do not expect, and I am in the middle of all of that right now.
So, interestingly enough, after reading one of my friend's blog review of the movie Faith Like Potatoes, I rented it over the weekend, and while at the video place I also picked up the movie Precious. Let me say, that we are just NOT movie watchers anymore. We were just saying how we had not rented a movie in so long they did not even recognize us at the store anymore.
So, we watch Faith Like Potatoes on our family night with Eric's mom. I will be straight with you and say the first 20 minutes were slow, and YES, I am a critic! But the movie moved on to teach us some good stuff about faith in God and stepping out in a big way when God so moves you. It made me think....really think. I have not been doing too much of that lately...Hmmm, maybe part of the the reason for my limbo? Yes, I think so! Free therapy right here...who knew?
Okay, so we move on to last night. I did not go to the movies to see Precious even though I wanted to...Could not find a friend who was willing to "go there" with me. Too depressing everyone said....And at some level I felt some of the same stuff. After watching it last night though, I see it is really no different than all of the people (occasionally including myself) who do not want to hear about what is happening in the world. You know, the really ugly stuff. The stuff that makes your heart sink, and at times, even makes you wonder if you can EVER REALLY make a difference.
Precious was one of the most moving and intense films I have seen for a long time. It brought a whole new perspective to my own life and also young girls living likely just around the block from us.
I cried....a LOT. I prayed last night...A LOT. I got on my knees and asked God for guidance in my life and forgiveness for my selfishness and overall RIDICULOUSNESS...there is that word again.

I get bummed because I feel like some of my dreams are not taking wings...While there is a young girl who hopes to live through the night without being attacked...
I think about my lack of motivation of going to the gym at times, while a young girl hopes she can find some sort of food to feed her infant...
I think about my "stuff", she thinks about surviving day to day....
My Diet Coke addiction, her hope for access to clean water....and the list goes on and gets so much more uncomfortable.

I say all of this...likely to mostly myself, to say...This life we are given-so many of us- is already priceless. With and without attaining all of our goals and dreams.
And it makes me realize even more on so many levels, that we MUST STAND FOR WHAT WE BELIEVE, and be willing to work harder than we can conceive to reach our crazy goals. LITERALLY ANYTHING IS INDEED POSSIBLE.

Today I commit to go for my dreams...all of them...And to make a bigger difference in the lives of people in need. Hold me to it!

Hilarious Becking Girls "Swimsuit" Video

2010-06-07T21:46:00.001-05:00

Eat your heart out Sports Illustrated! These girls mean business!!!

RUNNING FOR ONE MORE!!! WE DID IT!

2010-05-02T21:38:00.005-05:00

Well, we did it!!! We finished the Country Music Half Marathon! It was awesome! It had been over 5 years since I last ran this race...Wow, do times change! It was so awesome, inspiring, motivating, challenging, and FUN! We had a great group of people RUN FOR ONE MORE to benefit and raise awareness for Room For One More. Some fabulous people gave and many people raised support to run and at race time $10,000 was raised to give to families for adoption grants! We are so happy to be a part of this organization!
The weather held out just long enough for most of our group to finish the race with over 32,000 people running, it was total madness. I loved every minute of it!
If nothing else, it was a HUGE reminder that we can really do ANYTHING we commit to doing and most EVERYTHING we FEAR is simply MIND OVER MATTER and of course....GOD!
I was inspired to see so many people running that I would never imagine to be runners...People ran for so many reasons and some in memory of others. I realized once again, LIFE IS SHORT...I MUST LIVE IT BIG!
I have felt kind of stuck in a spot for a while now in life...It is a challenge to sort out how to be a good mom and still live out the other passions in my life. I am working on it, and it is a slow moving process so bare with me. That is why I have not posted for a while now....I am not sure where I am headed next. God seems to be moving my life in a different direction than I would have imagined, and I want to be faithful and at the same time I am kind of feeling a little in limbo...Guess that is where faith comes in Lord knows this is an area I could use some help with!
I think I am about ready to start posting more about the stuff in my mind, so if you are still reading my blog...stay tuned! (that means you mom and whoever else out there is reading....Cheri)ha ha
in the meantime check out some photos of the marathon and the little ladies!

kid love...IPHONE PHOTO UPDATES

HELP MAKE A DREAM COME TRUE FOR AN ADOPTIVE FAMILY!

2010-03-24T08:27:00.003-05:00

If you are a follower of our blog, you know that our non-prof. organization-Room For One More is running for a cause...A MAJOR cause!
On April 24 a large group of us will RUN FOR ONE MORE...to raise awareness of the orphan crisis in the world and to raise funds for an adoption grant for an adoptive family. We have been blown away by all of the wonderful families we have met since creating Room For One More. So many families want to adopt, but need financial assistance. One area RFOM wants to give back-is to families in this situation. So, as we run, sponsors are being asked to donate to the cause and also we would LOVE to see people buy our t-shirts. We have lots of great options on our website at www.roomforonemorechild.org and also we have a shirt created for the race that is really awesome also.
Check it out below. You can order any of these shirts online and ALL of the proceeds of the run t-shirt will go to an adoption grant for a family in need.
There are so many ways to get involved in saving the life of a child and so little can do so much!
There is still time to register to run the half marathon with us, and if not- local Nashville peeps, we would love to see you at the finish lines! Buy a t-shirt and let's come together for this awesome cause.
I have read some amazing stories lately of the great sacrifices and stories of major faith in action with adoptive families and I am happy to stand for one of these families to give them some much needed support to bring their children home!
We will post the total raised after the race. In the meantime...get involved!!!! We need your help!

Check Out the Sweetness!

2010-03-19T22:07:00.002-05:00

Look who is one!!!! How adorable is this pic above? Aunt Cheri out did herself again on Solie's one year pics! God is so good to give us two phenomenal, hilarious, amazing girls!!!!
I will post a better update soon! I just could not wait to get this pic on the blog!!!
Check out more of Cheri's awesome work at www.simplystatedphoto.com

Attention ALL Potential Country Music Marathon Runners!!!!

2010-03-08T20:17:00.006-06:00

Hi guys!!! Okay we are back on track for the Country Music Half Marathon! We are running to raise awareness of the orphan crisis in our world and to support Room For One More. I know so many of you have sent emails and have been interested in running. PLEASE PLEASE send me an email and let me know if you are hoping/planning to run. Shari (one of my RFOM peeps) told me today that the marathon is considering Room For One More for a charity sponsor which would be AWESOME and they need to know ASAP how many runners we have. This could be great for our organization and we all RUN FOR ONE on that great day. The Country Music Marathon is a GREAT race to run if you are at all considering it...GO FOR IT!!!! There are great people and bands working this race and it will be a great time! Again PLease email me ASAP if you are interested!
Here is a sneak peak at the t-shirts for the race. And we will have options for a shirt that wicks away sweat...We are working on it!!!!

Least of These Painting by Brian Keith Daniel

2010-03-08T09:07:00.001-06:00

This was just one more amazing event that took place at Celebrate Hope Cape. This painting was later auctioned off for $8,700 and then the buyer GAVE THE PAINTING to be placed in the new orphanage being built in Swaziland. Truly a night of selflessness for little people around the world. May every child feel loved. God is so amazing and the talent these people brought to the evening was ridiculous!

CELEBRATE HOPE ROCKS CAPE G!!!!!

2010-03-05T08:36:00.006-06:00

Wow, where to begin! Saturday night....I am still recovering from it!!! What a mind blowing night for God! We had our first Event in Cape to help Heart For Africa....Long story short...One of my best buds came home from Africa last summer and felt God leading her to raise $100,000 to build a new orphanage in Swaziland for Heart For Africa. When she told me this, I thought, OKAY, this could take a while, but LET"S GET AFTER IT!
One small gathering around her kitchen table grew to a second meeting at a local business in town and soon more than 25 people were attending these brainstorming, event planning meetings. God had a plan for this small town America and what HE did is still almost too big to believe.
Celebrate Hope Cape became our fundraising event...God got ahold of hearts of business owners all over our town and soon we had thousands of dollars in sponsors. We rented the coolest place in town, God kept giving BIG, and so did the people of our town, and 4 months later Celebrate Hope Cape was a reality. It was our lives really for those four months...We lived and breathed this event and what God was doing in the hearts and minds in some cases of the most unsuspecting people...
We had originally really hoped to have 250 people attend....And Saturday night we had 558 people come together to make a difference for children 10,000 miles away!!!!
Praise the ULTIMATE BIG MAN!
We had the most unbelievable night...Most of it a blur to me really as it was so so oversold....But when the event was over, we not only met the initial goal...
GOD RAISED A TOTAL OF $120,000 for Heart For Africa!
God is CRAZY HUGE!!!!!
Just still cannot process what has happened. Janine Maxwell, the VP for Heart For Africa spoke at the event and she announced that the children's home will house infants to two year old children. These will be babies left in pit latrines, found on the side of the road, and left to be found in hospitals. These children will be raised with their own Swazi cultures and tradition, and will know God very early in life. It is phenomenal!
I will say it again...I LOVE THIS TOWN! God is doing crazy wild stuff here and I am hanging on for the ride.
Take in this huge gift God has given us and the chance to just be a part of it has been unreal!

Time Flies By! Happy VDay and so Much More!

2010-02-14T15:35:00.007-06:00

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!!
And, YES, I did this to them...I know it is for a limited time before they have a major opinion, so I am going for it while it lasts.

Hi everybody! First, let me say a HUGE thanks to everyone who has responded to the Country Music Marathon challenge! We are so so pumped! To get the best up to date info on the race please join the Room For One More group on Facebook. My friend Shari Stroup manages it and we are going To be putting new info on it as the race gets closer. So, for those of you totally in this, go ahead and register via the Country Music Marathon website....Then email or facebook us so we can get an exact count and be able to send out group emails to keep everyone up to date. At this point if you are planning to run, you should be training...And I mean, RUNNING at least 2-3 times a week. It is amazing how it can transform your mind and body in such a short time!
Since my last post so much has happened! I have been up to my ears in the planning process for the Celebrate Hope event happening here on Feb. 27th. It is going to be such a rockin' event! I can hardly believe all that has come together to make this happen! To learn more about it go to www.celebratehopecape.com. Buy your tickets now while they are still available online. We are helping to raise 100k for Heart For Africa to build a new orphanage and it is going to happen!!!! The businesses and people in our town have really blown my mind. I am so thankful to live in this town!

On another note, Solie has turned 1 since I last posted! We have had camera problems so I did not get any great pics that day. This kid is so amazing! She has a major head of hair these days and is getting a mouth full of teeth. She is using basic sign language for stuff and truly I think might be the happiest little lady alive. We are in love with Miss Solie Koket, living up to her nickname every day as Little Miss Sunshine!

I am not organized as many of you already know, so I have kind of been consumed with a few things happening in life for the past month. And with the Heart for Africa event in just 2 weeks, I will likely continue to be distracted until that is over. Please know however, we are full steam ahead with the marathon and we would LOVE for you to join us! The initial t-shirt design is posted on the Room For One More group in Facebook so you can vote on your favorite.

For now check out these adorable Becking Valentines!

Country Music Half Marathon....Run for a Cause!

2010-01-19T15:56:00.012-06:00

I know it is a crazy time to even talk about something so generic as running with all of the extreme sadness happening in Haiti right now. I guess I have been kind of struggling to sort out my thoughts about it. Heartbreaking. We can all play a role in making a difference there...I am seeing so so much need everywhere I turn these days, it is hard to know how to best help. Maybe I will post more later on this.
Today, I want to talk about the Country Music Half Marathon....If you are a local here in Missouri or live anywhere EVEN REMOTELY close to Nashville, please consider this:
On behalf of orphans all over the world, Room For One More is pulling together a team to run and raise awareness for this cause. We are putting it out there now...And the response has just been awesome already! We will each wear a shirt with a message about the orphan crisis in the world, and on April 24th we will meet up in Nashcity to run for the cause.
This is the perfect time to step out...If you have been thinking that you want to get "back in shape", or, "I have always wanted to run a half marathon"....Or maybe you are completely out of shape and could never imagine doing this race....This is still for you!
I have been running the past few weeks, though previous to this past couple of weeks, have taken a hiatus from running for 3 YEARS!!!!
Feb 1 really kicks of the training time...12 weeks and you can start as a beginner, no problem.
I have friends who are avid runners who will "RUN FOR ONE" and also people who have not exercised in MANY years (you know who you are). This is a time to come together and make a physical sacrifice for a cause close to our hearts.
I was running this week inside our gym and I have just been using the time to pray and think about kids in need. I thought how crazy it would be for some of the children I have spent time with in various countries in Africa, and what they would think if they could see me running, in circles no less...I bet they would wonder what the heck I was doing. I was thinking what if they had a bird's eye view into my gym on a typical day. People working up a sweat peddling and peddling a bike that goes nowhere, people running on treadmills going nowhere, and those of us on the track running in circles....Focusing, all pushing ourselves to a "better body".
How freakin crazy! When I start to get sick of running, usually early in my run, I think about how a young girl, not much older than Bianca spends a good deal of her day, EVERY day just trying to retrieve water for her family. Carrying a load much heavier than we can imagine, and all at the same time, hoping, praying that she is not attacked on her walk back to her village...No thought of high priced tennis shoes, no heated gym, no perfect workout gear, thinking she needs to lose 10lbs...Just a child trying to help keep her family alive....Rocks my world.
This is life for millions.
So, when people tell me, "oh, there is no way I would run that race", that is fine, as of course it is totally your personal choice, but for me, it is different. I personally do not enjoy running...AT ALL.
But the time I spend running is a time I pray for and think about life for people in other parts of the world. It puts my privileged life in check, and I walk out of the gym with a clearer mission. I am more thankful, much more thankful when I walk down the stairs and pick up my kids in the child care. Overwhelmed sometimes.
I am starting to realize, every day, I want to make a difference, but it can be easy to lose focus. Of course, I want to be healthy, and yes, I am still vain in the sense that I want to be a certain size and shape, but even more I want to be "on task" with my life. Wow, life can really get away from you when you are a momma taking care of little people all day. These are precious moments and at times I find myself a little too giddy about the fact that their day school is about to start back...Selfish, yes, of course. These are moments not to miss.
I guess you can see where I am coming from here. Anyway, if you read my blog and are remotely interested, email or post me. We would LOVE it! And we will set up a page for support on facebook.
We will also partner with any other nonprofits for the race and come together as one. Just contact me about it...Now dust off those running shoes and your spandex...Okay, maybe just the shoes!
Face your fears!!!!
Here are a few of the latest pics of the girls!

I found Solie napping like this yesterday! How adorable

Loving the one day of warm weather!

HOPE RISING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-01-03T22:41:00.014-06:00

Today was just an awesome day! I am still blown away by the info I learned today! As most of you know, we go to an awesome church and over the past year our church started a journey to make a difference for orphans in the world....Of course I am encouraging this big time!
For any local people reading, it is LaCroix Church and I am just so pumped about what God is doing there! (Please also see this as an open invite to join us at LaCroix if you are a local and looking for a church, checking out church as an option, or just thinking this place might be cool)We just finished a great series called Hope Rising, and it was all about serving the poor and standing for those in need. It had such a huge influence on my life. We were challenged in many ways as a church. One of these challenges was to live for 5 days on what millions of people across the globe live like EVERY DAY. We were allowed tap water and 3 meals a day of one cup of rice and beans.
If you know me at all, you know I love food! Too much I have learned. How interesting what we focus our time and thoughts toward...And for me, deciding where to eat or looking forward to my next meal, or snack seemed to be a big part of my life.-The funny thing is, I would have NEVER known this if I had not taken on the food challenge. I pretty much thought doing the challenge would be "good for me". Eric and I both did it as a family. We went to sleep hungry at night and I know we were still eating like kings compared to so so many people who live on so much less than the beans and rice every day.

Here are some of the random things that I learned/pondered during this week:-Frustration....I felt it big time because I could not be in total control
-We spend WAY too much in a week eating out!
-Looking at my girls in there warm cushy beds, belly's full- I cried at the thought of the 147 million children in the world who have no parents and no security, much less little to no food most of the time.
-I cried about almost everything as a matter of a fact...I was constantly overwhelmed by the feeling of being hungry and how over the top we are as a culture with all of our "stuff" while people around the world are LITERALLY STARVING TO DEATH!
-I was in a bad mood on and off all week from the lack of food...and still we had all of the tap water we could drink.
-Two days I went to the gym and did my typical cardio burn, and when I walked out of the gym I thought I might pass out...And it made me think of what women and children go through walking for miles to get water, only to carry the heavy container once filled while their bellies ache for nutrition.
I caught myself looking in the rear view mirror as I drove our over the top SUV, looking at my girls in the back seat thinking...THIS COULD HAVE BEEN THEM...Not a number that is easy to ignore...MY GIRLS, MY BABIES...BIANCA AND SOLIE

-I knew the 5 days would end if I could "just make it to the end" and then life would be back to normal....FOR US, NOT THEM
-I cheated by drinking tea a few days...How weak can a person be?
-I wondered, WHY ME? Why did I get this phenomenal life that I EXPECT, and take for granted, and millions of other people ARE DYING FROM LACK OF FOOD AND LOVE
-I still went to bed EVERY NIGHT, in my plush, warm bed, and had a shower every day, love every day, a family every day....a wonderful life...every day
Eric and I looked at each other and were brought to tears so many times as we ate our one cup meal, realizing that millions of people would be so so thankful for this one cup meal.
Well, the list could go on FOREVER, but this is a taste, if you will.

In addition to the food challenge our church partnered with a great organization called Feed My Starving Children, and we packed and shipped 157,000 meals for people in need.
On Christmas Eve an offering was taken in hopes of raising $37,000 to pay for these meals, and also to support a great organization called S.H.A.D.E, wHere we will help increase a feeding program for people already serving the poorest of the poor.
Today was the day we were to learn how much our church gave for this need.
I went to church so excited I could hardly stand it, and when the amount was revealed, I felt weak in my knees.

PEOPLE, REGULAR PEOPLE, CAME TO THE 4 CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES HELD AT OUR CHURCH AND IN THOSE 4 SERVICES A TOTAL OF $116,0000 WAS GIVEN FOR THE HOPE RISING FUND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
THE GOAL WAS TO RAISE THE $37,000 THAT WOULD FEED 500 KIDS FOR A YEAR....
HERE IS WHAT GOD DID!
NOW THE MONEY GIVEN WILL IN FACT FEED 1500 KIDS FOR A YEAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Literally unbelievable!
GOD IS GIGANTIC!!!!
I am so thankful and humbled and challenged!
Are you? Where do you stand? Maybe you have thought about getting involved, maybe you already are involved....We have so much...We can all do more.
THIS IS WHAT LIFE IS ABOUT!

Happy New Year...In case anyone out there is still reading!

2010-01-01T23:03:00.015-06:00

Much love for 2010! What will be on the horizon for the Beckstein family???? Oh, so much! I dropped the ball on Eric at lunch yesterday in mid conversation, how we would have a lot going on this year as I am sure we will start another adoption....HOLD THE PRESSES!!!! He kind of did a double take, but being his awesome self, pretty much played it cool. Did I mention he is a freakin' awesome dad and husband? Wow, I love that dude! I have been spending this whole holiday season taking in my blessings and I am so so overwhelmed by all of the good good stuff in my life! My whole family is just so great and we are so so thankful to have family who love us so big! The holidays were awesome! We just took it in big time as a family. We don't do a ton of gifts, though other people seem to give our kids tons of stuff. I have really been wanting to take on more as far as giving and have been torn between two great organizations we are involved with. On Christmas day Eric gave me this typed up letter that basically said we could totally go for it and take on a few kids in need or maybe even a family (Africa)and I am so excited, and also a little overwhelmed as there is so so much need in this world. Praying God will lead us to the right spot....which, duh? He always does! Side note: OKAY-I just reread this post and I know it sounds kind of too cheesy to be true...And I am not trying to act like my life is perfect, because I am far from that person, but I am just starting to realize more and more how unimportant alot of the "stuff" is that I have spent my time thinking/stressing about. I am always bummed to see awesome people with low self esteem or just not confident in who they already are. I don't want to get caught up in that....and man, if we could all realize what we HAVE...RIGHT HERE AND RIGHT NOW...I am sure we would all live so differently.(ME INCLUDED!) Just awesome holidays in general and good family time. We went to a great New Year;s Eve party last night and just had a ball. There are some really really cool people in this town! And always fun to meet new people. Going to post some pics now!
Solie's First Christmas!

Bianca's Giggle Fest

Caution...Baby behind the wheel!

Solie & Dad

Happy New Year! I know the hat is cheesy, but it was only worn for a second....All you fashion guru's out there! To a GREAT 2010~~

Bianca Turned THREE...and YES, She is a Big Deal!

2009-12-13T22:16:00.015-06:00

I know it has been a month already and wow, how bad I have been at blogging. But, hey, life happens and if I don't feel it, I don't do it. Don't forget...if anyone is still reading-Eric is the one the the great discipline in our family!
Bianca turned three and it is totally hitting me now. So wild how much she has changed just in the past month or so.
Here is a little taste of our sassy little lady:
*She is funny..And I mean, really funny. She has me laughing all of the time. Just last week she told me that she would always like mommy because I don;t have a moustache....Well not for now at least I told her.
*She is freaked out by anyone with facial hair...Deal with it...Just one of her gigs these days.
*She has a hear the size of Texas. It blows my mind how much this kid loves. We have been doing some stuff to begin to teach the girls what life is like in other parts of the world, and when Bianca was in the tub this week, she asked if some kids didn't have bathtubs...When I told her no-Not all kids have bathtubs, she then asked me about if all kids have toys...Again I said no.
After thinking a second, she said, Mommy, I will share my toys with kids who don't have any. (Proud momma moment)Then she topped it of when she said, I don;t want any kids to feel sad.
Me too...
*She has a fiery little spirit, which I love MOST of the time! Wow, this kid is creative at getting her way and also very opinionated when she does not succeed at it!
* She is an awesome big sister. She loves Solie so much...It blows my mind how much she loves her and tries to mother her...She loves to help feed Solie and she plays so great with her. They are a total little team.
* She loves her dad...Big time. Followed by her Mimi, Papa, and Gigi-all equal of course. She loves Dora, Max & Ruby, nail polish, her new Handy Manny repair shop, her babies, church, suckers, gum, bubbles in the bath, and pretty much anything where we can pretend.
I could really not be more thankful for this child. God has blown our doors off in the blessing department and I am constantly brought to tears when I think about how different all of our lives could have been.
Bianca had an awesome birthday with our family and both sets of grandparents. It was such a great day. Below are some pics of the day together.

Happy B-Day Bianca!!!

Just before SUGAR OVERLOAD!

A Hippie, Chick, & Ladybug...Comin' At Ya!

2009-11-02T17:02:00.006-06:00

Check out the Halloween cuties! What a cool experience having two girls who love to dress up! Solie wore her chick outfit with mostly no complaints and never even tried to take her hat off. What a crack up. Bianca was a hippie for school and then she mixed it up for the trunk or treat as a ladybug. Good times had by all. This is my first official year without full costume, and it will be the last. I love Halloween and we used to have the annual Becking Halloween Bash..but for two years now have missed it. I am stating it here...Next year, the bash is back on. And we are going all out again...Start planning for your babysitters and costumes friends.
Don't be jealous ladies, but the Becking girls spent the evening with Brett Micheals...Don't hate us for it! Total hottie!
Peace out!

Orphan Sunday

2009-10-16T23:30:00.002-05:00

Orphan Sunday from Christian Alliance for Orphans on Vimeo.

Orphan Sunday is coming up....If you have not heard about it, check it out. There is still time to have your church get on board. What an awesome and simple concept. Wow, we really are busy in life aren't we? Just missing the boat it seems on God's kids that have been left behind. Time to step up...All of us and give these children a voice. It is no longer an option to ignore this crisis. And for those of us doing something, it is time to do more....I am clearly speaking to myself here! I need to think more along these lines every day. When I think I am starting to "do a good job" at this whole effort...is when I am the most jacked up! It is the tip of the iceberg. The time is now...Time is wasting, but more importantly, children's lives are being lost...senselessly. And there is love that needs to be poured all over so so many children all over the world.
Please be in prayer about what God is calling you to do to see change for these 147 million...

2 TOPICS: AWESOME FRIENDS....GETTING MORE DISTURBED

2009-10-11T21:20:00.015-05:00

We have just had the most awesome people come into our lives over the past years. God has so hugely blessed us with people who"get" us and really, I think there is no greater feeling to know you have people like this in your life. Our friends Stacey, Gracie, and Ty came to visit a few weeks ago and what a ball we had. Gracie and Solie were in the same orphanage in Ethiopia together and Stac and I used the same adoption agency, so we became good buddies during our process. God gave us such an above and beyond gift when he divinely organized our pick up trips for the same time. When I finally met Stacey in person, it was crazy awesome. Eric and I just loved Stacy and her husband Mat and we spent some life changing moments together in Ethiopia.
I feel like they are our family and Solie and Gracie will grow up loving each other.
Thank you Stacey for spending time with our family. We were blessed to spend time with you!!!
When they were here best bud Cheri came over and took some pics to celebrate our time together, so below are some of the pics.

God is like over the top good. I still dont really get it.
We have been so challenged lately to live larger....for God. It is scary...and wonderful, and more exciting than I could imagine.
How do we know how much to give? Can we ever outgive God? What do I do with all of the good stuff God has blessed my life with? How do I best share what God has given me? What does it REALLY mean to serve "the least of these"? How disturbed should I be in life? Will God protect us when we step out and do something no one else around us understands?...Okay, I have already tried this one more than once and I know the answer!
I am just messed up with so much right now and just done with all of the lack of action on my part. Sure, I feel all warm and fuzzy inside when I step out on occasion, but I am seeing clearly, that is has been NOTHING like what God is calling me to in life...All of us I guess as Christians. Today at our church an awesome series just finished up called "Disturbed"....and I am! I keep thinking about the words, FAITH WITHOUT WORKS IS DEAD....
Really...
I live so extreme sometimes. When I know I am supposed to do something I typically do it, no matter the feedback I receive...But lately I have been having these BIG thoughts come up of things I should do, and so quickly I change my own personal channel, because it feels scary and way outta momma's comfort zone.
I am being exposed to some people who are loving LARGE for God and I am floored. Speechless really.
So no clue where this is headed, but I had to get it out.
The challenge is on...for life!

Just look at these girls! They deserve a life full of love and I want to grow up knowing what it looks like to LOVE EVERY PERSON.

Check out this wild crew! Becking girls, Stacey and her kids Gracie and Ty and of course Malaena Sloan made it into the pic (cheri's daughter)

Little adorable Gracie! We love you!

Could she be any happier?

3 Little girls that love each other..and one that looks alot like Michael Jackson here...but dont worry, it is not him...Just Bianca..."Who's Bad?"

Becking Babies Love to Jam!

2009-09-22T21:30:00.003-05:00

What cracks me up is how much these chicks love music! They both already have their own style, and who am I to INFLUENCE their music love???? ha ha
Bianca and Solie are growing like crazy and their little personailites are unstoppable! Here are a few bits of the love!
In honor of the first week of Dancing with the Stars, here are the Becking girls rockin it out! Check it out!

2009-09-22T21:06:00.002-05:00

First NEW Family Photo & Deep Thoughts

2009-08-27T18:06:00.008-05:00

Here is our first official pic of the whole NEW and improved Becking crew. Again, thanks Cheri! This was at her son Brock's graduation party. I need to put this out on the table fellow bloggers....I have had a tough time blogging lately. Not because I have not been inspired or moved lately. Most of the time I am sure I sound like an over the top broken record here, but hey, it's my big love blog, so I guess I will continue to write what I am feeling.
It seems like God continues to show me unprecedented levels of faith in people in and around my life. Last week a family in our community tragically lost their 20 month old son in a drowning accident. I cannot begin to comprehend that loss...not even in the smallest way. The faith that God gave the mom was and still is astounding to me. I am completely blown away and very humbled. While thousands of people prayed for their child, what God did through this mom has changed people's lives. It is not my purpose to talk about details of this family's loss, but I do want to say that I praise God for their faith through this time of such loss. I have grown so much through the words of this mom in the past week. I have been challenged in my own faith and I am in awe of what God has done for the good through this terrible accident.
In addition to this, I am continually reminded something about my girls....That they are not mine, but God's gift to me for a time. I am so thankful to be able to be in their lives and I don't want to miss any moment of either of their lives- because my mind and heart are elsewhere...Stressed, frustrated, overwhelmed at times with momhood, being selfish, apathetic, bored with life....These are things that creep into my mind at times and want to be more and more mindful of it.
What a waste of time when we dwell on things we cannot control. Money, work, family problems, illness...the list goes on.
What REALLY is God calling each of us to do? For me, I mean for real, WHAT is it? How uncomfortable do I need to be to be in the right spot? Why does it have to be so scary?
I never thought of myself as the motherly type, and now I have 2 of the most awesome little humans in my life, and I wonder what more is in store there. Could I handle 4 or 5 kids in my life? Sometimes I think YES! and others I think, heck no! Wild to think about what God is calling us each to step up and do....I know one thing, I am supposed to DO something, ALL OF THE TIME! Instead of getting in my own little comfort zone where everything is nice and cozy and...BORING!!!
So, here I go into a new endeavor....A College girl's Small group! Yep, I said it! Stay tuned!
I also realize I have not been my usual comedic self lately, and it is not for a loss of laughter in our house, but some stuff just hangs heavy in my mind and this is a good place to get it all out!
Peace Out!

Crazy Love & Get Disturbed

2009-07-30T13:28:00.003-05:00

Okay, so I am reading this AWESOME book (Thanks Cheri) called Crazy Love by Francis Chan. It is a rockin' my world....I actually might complete this one! For those of you who know me well, you are very familiar with all of my "projects" I start and never complete...even worse with books!
I have to share this part of the book, as I am shocked out of my good old comfort zone...It is nice in the comfort zone. No major worries except about wanting "stuff". The comfort zone, for me, while pathetic, protects me at times from the REAL WORLD...And while I have seen a good amount of the real world in my travels I too easily forget when I get back home to all of my dearly beloved "stuff".

Here is a bit of what he writes:

If one hundred people represented the world's population, fifty-three of those would live on less than $2 a day. Do you realize that if you make $4000 a month, you automatically make ONE HUNDRED TIMES MORE than the average person on this planet? Simply by purchasing this book you spent more than what a majority of people in the world will make in a week's time.
Which is more messed up-that we have so much compared to everyone else, or that we don't think we are rich? That on any given day we might flippantly call ourselves "broke" or "poor"? We are neither of these things. We are rich. Filthy rich.

Does it make sense? Can you even wrap your head around living on $2 a day? I know I have blogged about this before, but I will be honest...I have NO concept of this...NONE...And unless you have lived in a 3rd world country you likely cannot grasp it either.

So, this is just the tip of the iceberg in my thoughts these days.
Last night Eric and I were asked to speak to a group of people about adoption, (Which you know I LOVE!!!) And again another statistic that I talked about came up that I think about daily...and I MEAN DAILY.

This has been misquoted many many times, so let me make sure I get it right.
To preface, let me just post that there are around 145 million orphans in the world today...All with wonderful faces and hopefully most with names. Kids who have a heart, need to be loved, protected, and cared for.

IF ONLY 7% OF THE 2 BILLION CHRISTIANS IN THE WOURLD WOULD CARE FOR A SINGLE ORPHAN IN DISTRESS THERE WOULD EFFECTIVE BE NO MORE ORPHANS.

There has been controversy over this piece of info, and while many of these 145 million children cannot for various reasons be adopted, they STILL need to be cared for. Adoption is not the heal all, fix all...The key words in this statistic for me at least are, "care for"....And that can mean a thousand things. Bottom line, as humans who have so much, we have no excuse not to stand for those who cannot stand for themselves. I do not budge on this issue. What can we do? How can we do more to be more effective to make change?
These kids are counting on us....and the statistic of 7% of Christians....How crazy is that?
Every child out there is someone's son or daughter...What if it was your son or daughter? That would never happen in the US! No one would stand for it...
And still these are lives being lost every day because they have no voice to speak for them.
Get disturbed. If you don't like what I have written, likely a good thing. We all need to be messed up a bit.
This is what we are about, it is what Room for One More is about and it is what every child deserves. Please join us and get involved, somewhere...anywhere that is making a difference. We don't have all of the answers, but we are moving in a good direction.
Much Love
Chantelle

Our Beautiful Guatemalan Girls!!!!!

2009-07-23T16:19:00.004-05:00

Is this the sweetest thing or what???? Another awesome image by my awesome friend Cheri of her daughter and mine just lovin' life and each other....Alot like their mommas. Check out Cheri's new blog for more of her awesome work.
As always lovin' life over here and these little ladies. I am not sure they could be more fab-u-lous!
Chantelle

More kiddo bliss!

2009-07-11T23:56:00.003-05:00

Our best bud "Aunt" Cheri took some awesome images of the little Becking ladies. The new main photo is courtesy of her. She has blessed us in such a huge way by capturing some pics of the Becking girls in a way only a good close friend could. We love her and thank her for this! Check her and Sheri out if you are a local, at www.bellabamninophotography.com
They do awesome stuff and we love it!

On a life note: I know I have still not told our story, or at least the true account of Ethiopia. I am still processing it all. So so many emotions from the trip and as I get to know our Solie Koket more each day, I am blown away by the love this child puts out!
I have not had a lot of time to slow down and write an account of our trip...and maybe I have been avoiding it if I am totally honest. It was a place where we experienced one of the best days of our lives, and at the same time, it was a new crazy realization of what life could be like for me, had I been born in another place....and WHAT LIFE IS LIKE for millions of people who live without clean drinking water, where women struggle to be seen as equals, and the needs are difficult for us as Americans to begin to wrap our minds around.
In the same breath, it is a glorious place, where life is simple, people are beyond kind, and life is not taken for granted.
I am kind of just stuck right now, wondering how in the world I could ever give enough of my life back to make a real difference in the world...Specifically Africa.
Guessing this makes no sense, but it is where I am right now...
More to come another time!
Thanks for keeping up with us!
Chantelle

SWEET THING!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-07-09T15:00:00.003-05:00

Could she have more perfect lips? Who does not want to smooch them all day long? Yes, I am a freak...deal with it! ha ha
Thanks Aunt Cheri for the awesome Solie pic at the pool! This baby girl has made leaps and bounds in growth and spunk since she got home! I know I say it ALL THE TIME--This kid is such a miracle in our lives!

TIME TO CELEBRATE LIFE!!!!!

2009-07-08T13:54:00.010-05:00

Whoop Whoop!!! The Outman family are back from Ethiopia with the twins! Solie's crib mates and future buds!!!! What a celebration
So thankful that God would bring these boys to the Outman family. We all liv eint he same town and have become good friends through church and our adoption journeys. Solie was in the same orphanage as the Outman twins and theie cribs were right across the room from each other...just a few steps. We praise God for this awesome blessing for the Outman family!
God is so good...In the big and little things. The details of life God works out in such unique ways!!
We also want to congratulate our friends Carrie and Clint on the arrival of little Teddy! Another God sized gift.
To looking at every detail of our lives as a major gift from such a huge and loving God!-

The welcoming crew at the STL airport! What a day to party!!!!

Michelle & Jaime and the fellas, Phisher & Phelix~ LOVE THESE BOYS!

The whole Outman family!!! Fresh off a MAJOR travel experience and up 2 boys added to the great Outman crew! Stop by their blog and congratulate them!

Just chillin'! We walk Bianca to school every day and this is what it typically looks like when I get back home with the Sol-meister! Racked out!

The two little Stinkers!

I am just wishing they would try and relax...They are so stressed here. hee hee

Solie is quickly learning how to make herself known....By good old fashion HAIR PULLIN'!

Bianca strikes again!

Check out the sweetness!!! This child has grown LIKE CRAZY!!!!!!

New Pics! I know that is what you are here for!

2009-06-22T22:18:00.007-05:00

Okay so more pics of the sweet ladies! We are adjusting quite well now, but have been having some internet issues. I have written this post 2 times and lost it, so for now this is it! All of the great words of new mom wisdom....out the door. I know I am really leaving you at the edge of your seat...ha ha
I will write about stuff that counts very soon. I have lots of good stuff to share about life around here.
Big Love
Chantelle

Lovin' being big sis....Looking totally in charge

Ohhhh! I feels so good to be the big sis! Sugar High!

Tutoring Solie in this one...She has lots to learn according to Bianca

Future olympic gymnast/professional breakdancer....Check out her moves

Total hambone

Happy as a clam

The royal highness gets a bath

Homecoming pics!

2009-05-30T13:50:00.021-05:00

What an awesome day! The day we arrived back in STL after almost 24 hours of travel from Ethiopia.Our family and best of friends were there to celebrate little Solie Koket's arrival to the US. We so love and appreciate these people in our lives and they made us feel so so loved! Check out some of the footage!

This is part of the welcome crew. What a great way to walk out of airport security!

Bianca meeting her little sis for the first time....What a priceless moment.

The Outman crew give Solie some love! They are waiting for their twin boys from Ethiopia, who had a crib right across from Solie's! Check out their blog.

Long long time best bud Trac welcomes little Solie!

These great signs made by the Outman crew

We have been home 3 weeks today! Feels like forever. SOlie has made such an amazing journey from a far off and wonderful place and she is just the sweetest baby. We are so humbled and thankful that God would give us this child to love.
I have lots of great new pics to share but did not want to miss out posting this good stuff!

Meeting Solie Koket

2009-05-20T15:02:00.001-05:00

What an awesome day! The video of our first few moments meeting Solie Koket! our great friends, the Turman;s took the video of us meeting Solie for the first time...PRICELESS!!! Thank you Truman's.
The first part of the video is just a short video we recorded for Bianca while we were away,
This child was so so loved by the nannies and workers at Sele Enat. We are FORVER thankful to these wonderful people and this loving place.
Much Much Love'
Chantelle, Eric, Bianca, Solie Koket

You are my SUNSHINE!

2009-05-16T21:44:00.005-05:00

What a crazy, powerful week in Ethiopia! Wow, did God do some HUGE things in our lives while we were there. I am still in complete awe when I look at little Solie Koket. God has blessed us beyond our own imaginations! I still have no idea how to post about our trip. So so many emotions. I will also say that I am beyond impressed with the in-country staff for IAN. We were blown away by the hearts of the people there. In general...we were blown away. If there are any soon to be traveling parents for ET...I HIGHLY recommend the New Flower Guest House. The owner, Helen, was just awesome and they treated us like family. (I am happy to give more info if you email me privately). I want to tell you all about the realities of this journey, but I am not there yet. I have no idea where to begin.
I am humbled...maybe more than I have ever been before. Until I get to a spot to begin our story, here are some more pics.
Check out who we ran into at the airport! The ultimo hefe, el presidente for the US of A! Thank you President Obama for your well wishes...Solie is doing great! (okay, I know it is not his best photo...He seemed to photograph a little "flat")

More pics of the deliciousness!

2009-05-11T15:13:00.003-05:00

Solie is HOME!!!!!

2009-05-10T22:01:00.009-05:00

She is AMAZING and Bianca is the best big sis already! It is so amazing to watch. Solie Koket already thinks her big sis is the coolest thing ever! Just home now about 24 hours and a bit jet lagged, but here is what I know you have ALL been waiting for!!! PICS!

This is one of my favorites...We are with my friend Stacey and little miss Gracie, who was Solie's best bud in the orphanage. They had cribs right beside each other. We LOVE and miss you Trumans!!!

Of course MUCH more to come very soon...Just have to get sorted out a bit over here!
Thank you all for follow2ing our journey to Ethiopia! I will post more about our trip soon...and more pics tomorrow!
Chantelle

We're Leavin'..On a midnight plane to Ethiopia!!

2009-05-01T22:33:00.002-05:00

Okay I checked it out and I will TRY to post via email to the blog while we are gone! We are so so so excited! We have people staying at the house while we are gone and the grammies are in full swing with Bianca...First thing tomorrow, we ARE OUTTA HERE!!!! Wow, the CRAZY emotions today.
I just want to THANK GOD for this time. Wow, I cannot believe how blessed our lives are that we get to parent little Solie! I am blown away!
Please pray for our trip...Mainly for Solie,her little heart to be prepared for a momma and daddy. Also for each orphan living without a parent tonight...Wow, that number is astronomical,,,and totally wrong.
We all deserve to be loved and cared for. And EVERY child deserves and home full of love.
I am so thankful for the people in our lives that have walked this path with us again. You have really really been so wonderful to us and we will forever be thankful.
On another note...I really am hoping to get photos of every child at Solie's orphanage while we are there for their parents in the US. I do not want to miss anyone, so please send us some good vibes, so I can be organized enough to make this happen for these anxious parents!
Will write as I know more...see more and experience this whole thing with Eric...I can't wait! I have always wanted to travel to Africa with him...And now it is such a life changing trip for us!
GOD IS GOOD!
Huge LOVE
Chantelle

2009-04-30T21:10:00.001-05:00

Testing for travel cell phone

2009-04-30T21:04:00.001-05:00

Testing...for travel

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Keep up with our lives and the latest updates on our adoption!
http://adventuresinbianca.blogspot.com/

BIG LOVE SOLIE SHOWER!!!!!!!

2009-04-29T18:23:00.009-05:00

Such an awesome surprise in pictures! Check out these awesome people in our lives who will love all over little Solie Becking!
Thanks again ladies! We love you!
Red Velvet Celebration Cake! Momma's Favorite!

Good Day Sunshine! Love the pillow for Solie's room! I love the special thoughts gone into these gifts.

This adorable outfit for Solie says Lil' Miss Sunshine...how sweet is that? Thanks Seabaughs!

Count Down!

2009-04-28T22:49:00.003-05:00

MAN!!!! IT IS ALMOST HERE! I can hardly believe we will be holding little Solie Koket is just a matter of days now! YIKERS! I am all over the place with emotions...One of them being kind of short tempered...(Sorry Eric!) I think it is all of the madness and not sure what to do with it!
Today was just the BEST day! I was scheduled to go to lunch with my friends Tracie and Raelenna and when I got there...A BIG OLD SURPRISE PARTY! Anyone who knows me well, knows I LOVE a party...But a surprise party is one of my most favorite things!!! It was such a great surprise! Thanks to all the mommas (and soon to be momma Carrie!) who made it happen for me.
How cool that God brings together such a great group of women. All so unique in their own ways...I love it and remember the days I prayed that God would give me s few true friends. And now I see how he has blessed me far beyond that dream. I was so loved on today by people. Now if one of those hot mommas will send me a few pics I will post them.
We even had red velvet cake with Solie's name on it...I celebrated for the both of us having 2 pieces of cake today...One at the party, and the second as I watched Biggest Loser...Is that wrong? It felt wrong, but also like complete bliss.
God has provided this crazy huge blessing on our lives of giving us another baby girl and I do not want to lose sight of our goal with all of the franzy of planning and sorting our schedules and details.
So wild how sometimes God gives me a CRAZY HUGE blessing, and then I have no clue how to be appropriately thankful...so I end up sitting eating cake on the couch! It gets kind of overwhelming sometimes when I see what God has given me...Knowing that I am not worthy of all of this goodness.
I am not trying to get on a soap box, I am just blown away by what has taken place in the past 3 months.
I know you are all DYING to see pics of this little miss sunshine! I am DYING to post them...but have been asked by our agency to wait until we get back home with her...Then you are stuck with us...All of us and our photo overload!
How do I put into words what I am feeling? Man, I just have no clue..and no words...Which is rare for me.
God is faithful...Through triumphs and struggles. he will never leave us or foresake us.
Thank you God for this wild wild ride! My faith has been tested and strengthened and I lean on you more today than yesterday.
And thank you to all of you all over the states that have chosen to follow our journey and love this child home. We feel the love and I know Solie Koket does also.
Big Big Big Love-
Chantelle

Oh Sweeet Mother, We are Headed to Ethiopia!!!!

2009-04-22T21:54:00.007-05:00

Hard to believe it...I am still in TOTAL shock! We got a call from Aneata at our agency today and she told us our Embassy appointment is MAY 6!!!!!! So, we are off next weekend for Ethiopia!!!! WOW!!!! That is too crazy!!!Get ready to add another sweet little face to the Becking Family photo!!!! Solie's coming home!!!!!!
I will post more very soon! But we are official people! Solie Koket will be at home for Mother's Day! What a gift to us all!!!
In other HUGE news...Somebody, (who will want to hurt me when she is big enough to know it is so wrong for a mom to post photos like this) IS POTTY TRAINED!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YEEEEE HAAAA
Can life BE any better?

Ready to Go!!!!

2009-04-16T22:43:00.009-05:00

Wow, it still does not feel real!!! Just knowing Solie Koket is coming home just rocks my world! I am so so happy and thankful.
Another great family passed court also the same day we did with our agency. Today my friend Stacey found out she will be going to pick up her baby girl also. We had another 2 really awesome families that had issues today and did not pass court. My heart is just breaking for them. Our prayers are with you guys. We went through a lot of "stuff" trying to bring Bianca home and it can feel so defeating at times. I guess that is why this time around it still does not feel real...hardly any drama as far as the actually process went. A true gift from God this round.
As for us, proud new parents again, officially as of Monday to another beautiful baby girl! You know I am dying to post her pictures, but our agency frowns upon that until we bring her home....I know, almost everyone else seems to post all of the great pics the day they pass court, but we will keep up the suspense!
Of course I am ready to get on a plane, as you might imagine. I know so many of you have asked and want to know when we are going to ET...I too would love to know. I have heard NOTHING from our agency since we passed, and even with more than a couple of emails have nothing back as far as confirmation on travel dates. I am trying not to be a freak...but I am. Big surprise. Now that I know Solie is ours...I want to be with her..big time! So for now we wait for some response so we can book airfare and get Bianca squared away with the grandparents.
This will be the longest I have been without the little short stack. Pretty sure Eric and I both will be kind of sick about that. The flight is so dang long though we could not even think about taking her...17 hours on a plane with a 2 year old...I don't think so. I am not totally insane!
I received one pic of Solie this past week from a family that traveled to pick up their adorable son....Thanks NEWMAN family! It is wild how much we LOVE those pics that people take for us! We are hoping to get more over the next 2 weeks as we have more families traveling this weekend! So awesome to see kids coming home! Love it!
I am posting some recent pics of Bianca...She has not been getting enough face time. I will say, there is a reason. She finally broke our digital camera while on an artistic rant several weeks ago...I bought a new one and I am not totally impressed. But, alas, she is adorable and so here she is!
A day in the life of a 2 year old!

Bianca with her good buddy Malaena Sloan

This is Bianca one year ago...How quickly she has grown!

The Newest Member of the Becking Family!!!!

2009-04-14T00:38:00.004-05:00

That is right! She is the littlest Becking! I can still hardly believe it! Man, we have awesome people in our lives loving us through this whole process. God is crazy good to us. Eric is a rockin' daddy and Bianca is pretty much the coolest kid ever. Now we get to add to the Becking crew! We cannot wait to go and get Solie Koket Becking! Koket is the name she was given before being taken to the orphanage,a nd we love it and are keeping it....Pronounced Koe-Ket...This little tiny thing needs to come home asap! We are praying for a very quick embassy date. Hoping still for May 20!!! Still totally processing the shock & awe of the whole thing!
Not a lot of words at this point, just big thankfulness!
Big Love to you all-
Chantelle, Eric, Bianca,& Solie Koket!

The Biggest Day Ever..Round 2!

2009-04-13T10:45:00.001-05:00

It is official! We passed court today!!!!!! God is so freakin' good!!!! Just so so happy to think this child is coming home!!!! Thank you so much for all of your support. Will post more tonight!
Big Love
Chantelle

Today is the day...April 13th!

2009-04-12T23:52:00.003-05:00

Court date- It's here & will happen in just a matter of hours now! I want to just post quickly and say that we have been completely BLOWN AWAY by all of the love for Solie and our the rest of us! I have been in awe this week, and especially today at how many of you have been praying for us and a successful court date. So so many people love this little child. What a journey it has been. I feel very calm and confident that God is totally in conrtol of all of this, no matter the outcome today. More than anything, I cannot wait for you guys to see this awesome little wonder! She is amazing and we feel kind of overwhelmed by the support and love from our family, friends, blog buddies, IAN mommas, & church family. We love and appreciate you so much.
God is good-All the time!
Will post as we learn more!

BIG NAME REVEAL!!!!!

2009-04-11T22:18:00.016-05:00

The Becking family, Chantelle, Eric, and soon to be big sis, Bianca are proud to introduce you to at least the FIRST name of our soon to be new baby girl...

SOLIE K**** BECKING

We love the name. Pronounced (Soh-lee)...In honor of Little Miss Sunshine of course, sol meaning sun. We are so so thankful for this little bundle of joy and are eager to hear good news about our court date...
I would love to share her middle name, but it will have to wait until we pass court and she is offically ours. (Ethiopia requests this)
Her middle name is awesome too, and I am so happy to make it a part of her full name. Eric and I had no problem when it came to naming this little child. He is one proud daddy again and Bianca is one proud big sis. You should hear her talking about baby Sooo-yee (Bianca speak).
Looks like we just have one last day to wait for court...Wow, the day is almost here. Let's all enjoy an awesome Easter with people we love. Then we will try to sleep at least a little over at the Becking house while the courts meet in Ethiopia during our night tomorrow night. Send up some love for baby Solie and join us as we believe our next post will be official posting of baby Becking #2!!!!!
God is good, and he has blessed us beyond words!
Love & Peace-Chantelle

3 DAYS UNTIL COURT!!!!!

2009-04-09T22:41:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone...As you might expect, I have hardly been sleeping, and at the same time I have accomplished NOTHING...Lots of time spent staring out into...AFRICA! Not much happening physically, but lots happening mentally!
Do you realize that while we all sleep in our cozy beds on Sunday night, our daughter's case will be heard in an Ethiopian court? It is CRAZY!!! Our attorney will be presenting our case to the judge at some point during our night time. Ethiopia is like 8 hours ahead of us, so it is likely we will know something on Monday morning...We are supposed to be notified the same day,(a new agency agreement) and I am hoping this is the case. Kind of makes me sick thinking of that...I am so so confident this will be our day..Should I even type that? I just kind of have not even really considered not passing court our first try. I am just feeling like we will pass..
About 70% of cases pass on the first court date.
So, I ask...Easter Sunday, when you are hanging out with someone you love, please send up a prayer for Little Miss Sunshine. She needs her momma and daddy! And the sooner we can get to her the better! I need to bombard her with hugs and kisses until she grows old enough to tell me to give her a break! ha ha
We have seen God do some really HUGE things during this adoption process. I cannot even begin to share all of the miracles I have seen...and I am not using the word "miracle" lightly. I know God is faithful and HE is in total control of getting our baby girl home. Now I will trust in him...He brought us together and in a matter of time we will forever be a family. I am so humbled He would choose us to be her parents.
Celebrate this weekend and what God has done for you in your own life. After all it is Easter, and no better time to remember what God has already done for all of us.
Much love
Chantelle

MAJOR UPDATE!

2009-04-06T17:46:00.006-05:00

I can still hardly believe this, and as I write it I am blown away!
We received news from our adoption agency today that our court date has been moved up...I have read about this on a few people's blogs, but I CAN HARDLY BELIEVE IT!!!!
Our original court date was scheduled for MAy 11, which we thought was a great date when we got it...Not too long a wait..We were happy!
Imagine how much I totally freaked out today when I read our NEW DATE!

APRIL 13....NEXT MONDAY!!!!

I am in complete shock! And loving every second of the super high I am feeling.
I also just want to say I am sorry to the good buddies I have that have been waiting a long time....I know it is hard to swallow at times. After our adoption process with Bianca, I am just blown away at getting such an awesome break.
God is good!
Please join with us and pray that we pass court the first time, so we can bring this little sweetie home.
HUGE LOVE COMING FROM THIS PLACE!!!
Chantelle

NEW PICS!!!!!

2009-04-05T09:25:00.003-05:00

Here is a little sneak peak of the sweet feet! We were so so beyond pumped to receive new pictures yesterday of Little Miss Sunshine! I wish I could show you more of them. THANK YOU PARK FAMILY!!!!! She is just beautiful! And I can already tell, will have a sparkling personality! Mom's intuition!
It is going to be a big week this week on the BIG LOVE BLOG! We are under 5 weeks until court date and a BIG ANNOUNCEMENT is coming your way.....Little Miss Sunshine's Official name will be posted!!! So stay tuned!!!
Thank you all for your prayers for LMS...Some specific things to pray for:
*To pass court the first try!
*For a quick embassy date
*For God to prepare all of our hearts to bring home our newest little family member
*For good health and lots of love for LMS until we can get there
*For all families adopting right now. We have seen awesome things happen at our adoption agency as far as referrals, court dates, & people passing court. We have some good friends who have a baby in the hospital and a few referrals that have gone out, the children are pretty malnourished. We need to see God heal these little children.
To an awesome week!
God bless you big-
Chantelle

I AM BECAUSE WE ARE

2009-03-30T23:32:00.006-05:00

This documentary, I AM BECAUSE WE ARE, was co created by Madonna and quite possibly one of the best films currently dealing with the crisis in Africa. If you have ever wanted to learn more about what is happening, or why AIDS,poverty, and orphans are such a huge issue in Africa...I challenge you to take the time to watch this.
Even if you have no connection to Africa and maybe do not understand my connection to this place, here is a brutually honest and heart felt film of desperation and hope. It is also a good reality check on daily life here in America and how we so so quickly take it for granted.
The film is about an hour and a half long, and offered on youtube. It is very tough to watch, but it is real life for people in Malawi and all across Africa. There is hope...And it starts with each one of us making the smallest difference.
Much Love
Chantelle

6 Weeks & Some Change & Mother's Day

2009-03-26T22:44:00.007-05:00

Holy Schnikeys! 6 weeks and some change and we will know if Little Miss Sunshine passes court! I was just looking at some other blogs and I found one that has the same court date as us...The thing I did not realize was that May 10 is Mother's Day...I guess because I am still new at the whole mom gig, I did not even think about it. What is even more wild...Ethiopia is several hours AHEAD of us. So our case will be heard on Mother's Day for us..Or at least while we sleep after a full mother's day. What an awesome gift that would be..to pass court on mom's day!
Of course I am totally crunching the numbers these days and now I am starting to realize that in like 10 weeks I could have 2 baby girls full-time! Holy CRAP!!!!
We are loving life today. I am just getting over what I like to call the MOTHER LOAD CRUD. It has given me a new appreciation for feeling good!
I am just so thankful for a quick court date. I know to some, it has not really been fair. Many families who received their court dates well before us, have court dates scheduled few weeks after ours was assigned. There is not much rhyme or reason to this, and we are hoping to see our friend's court dates move up. This whole process has been just a God thing for us. We had some tough stuff early on to deal with, and I will not elaborate too much..But for me it was a really really difficult time. I feel like, and have for some time-that God carried us through the tough time and now the actual process will be easier. For those of you who followed our adoption with Bianca, you know our wait time, was sad- to say the least. This time I really feel very peaceful about this process. I just know that God is in this in such a huge way.

I also really believe with all of my heart that we will pass court the first time, and we will travel 3-4 weeks after!
We got 2 new pics of Little Miss Sunshine last week and in one she is totally smiling, maybe laughing even. The second photo, she is screaming her head off. The grammies have a tough time seeing her cry, but I actually kind of felt good to see two such important emotions in our girl. Likely also a sign that she will follow in her big sister's footsteps by being a little ball of fire!
I have to get it in gear! We have all kinds of commitments coming up during April and early May...I know this time will be gone so quickly....
I think about my daily trips to McAlister's to get a tea. Right now, I get Bianca out with me-no problem. Today when we were there, I saw this mom come in with her 3 year old girl and she was carrying a baby carrier with an infant. I felt sorry for her...She likely started the day looking so cute- good hair and outfit, but as she opened the door, she was all sweaty, disheveled, and frankly-pissed. I instantly caught myself and thought- WHOA, this is going to be me in just a few months!!!!
But I will most certainly be even more sweaty and uncoordinated juggling all of the stuff!
Bianca was big enough when she came home, that I never used a baby carrier. I can't wait to get a better idea how big Little Miss Sunshine is, so I will know what to buy for her!

Well, the count down is on!!!! And we are sooooo happy about it!
Please be in prayer for LMS as she waits for us, for a successful court date, tons of love, and good health for this baby. And for our family in the US- for me to have patience, Bianca to handle the transition well, and for our business to continue to thrive, as Eric makes decisions for our family, and as we prepare to travel to Ethiopia.
GOD IS GOOD.....ALL THE TIME!
Much LOVE
Chantelle

WORLD WATER DAY

2009-03-23T22:51:00.000-05:00

We have a COURT DATE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-03-21T13:44:00.001-05:00

It is true!!!! Just this morning I woke up and told Eric, "We have to really be praying for our court date to be assigned!"....Seriously like 5 minutes later I picked up my phone and had an email from our coordinator at IAN...TITLED..COURT DATE!!!
And there is was..An official court date for our little baby girl.
Please everyone mark you mental calendars fro MAY 11th! We need lots of good prayers sent up for a successful court date! I totally have the feeling we will pass the first time, and I am going with it!
Sorry I have been out of the loop this week for most of you...I have been dealing with some serious sinus stuff trying to get me down...Still working it out! Will be back in action in no time.
So so so thankful for this awesome news.
Now we wait for this date, and our attorney in Ethiopia will go to court for us, we will know the same day if we passed court and if we do, we will travel in 4 weeks!
Little Miss Sunshine better get ready for this crew. We can't wait to get our hands on her!
Much Love everyone!
Chantelle,Eric, & Bianca

A TINY Sneak Peak of the Perfection!

2009-03-14T16:16:00.005-05:00

I know you are all dying to see a picture of Little Miss Sunshine! I GET IT!!! She is just so dang amazing to look at and love....I am a mom freak..I know..So spare me the emails letting me know! ha ha
My best bud Cheri edited this adorable pic for us so we could share Little Miss Sunshine's perfect little mouth with the world without sharing her identity. This baby loves to eat! Every pic I have seen- she has milk on her face! And for those of you who do not know, until LMS is officially our daughter, the Ethiopian government frowns upon sharing photos of Ethiopian children. It is totally for their safety so I am all for it.
We have seen 2 different trips of photos already of her, so I am totally spoiled.
The uplifting news keeps coming...Yesterday Eric's mom called and told me there is a local neurosurgeon who has been in Ethiopia and is going back who heard about our story and offered to go and visit LMS while there! I was totally blown away and so so thankful for the good hearts of people who do not even know us, but are willing to love on our child for us. Now, if I can only convince them to put me in their carry on baggage, I will just need to lose about 50 pounds to make the weight limit! ha ha
We did not hear news about our court date this week, but I am guessing it will be assigned for late May...Only my estimation. It is really hard to tell.
Please continue to pray for LMS-
*For someone to be giving her BIG LOVE while we are apart.
*For God to keep her little body healthy and strong...We love this little fighter
*For God to give me the patience I need to wait this thing out, and not drive everyone around me completely nuts
We have had some blog friends who have received some really tough news about their baby girls over the past few weeks, and our hearts truly go out to them. Please know you guys are completely in our prayers.
Thanks to everyone who loves us BIG! We are so thankful!-Chantelle

4 Weeks Waiting....Is this the week?

2009-03-12T10:09:00.003-05:00

Look at the awesome pic done by our good friend Sarah Trickey this summer at Kentucky Lake. Bianca has changed so much even since this photo! I just think this is such a good picture of the sweetness of a child.
So, alas Bianca waits...momma and dad wait too for a court date to be announced for Little Miss Sunshine...And NO we are not officially naming her this. We have agreed on a name but I am holding on posting it until we know the court date.
On a great note, we received another pic of this little wonder....Yesterday another mom who just got back from Ethiopia sent me a pic she took while at the orphanage. LMS was sleeping and looking extra adorable.
I am starting to get a bit more freaky about the wait, but evening it out with spending lots of really great time with just me and Bianca....We do pretty much everything together and I want to really take in our last few months alone together.
Bianca is really talking in basic sentences now and I am loving it! We have still not even come close to mastering any sort of potty training, but hey, life is still pretty great!
When referring to herself Bianca says, "I, ME" just in case we missed the first reference, which is pretty funny. She can also do one heck of a Mick Jagger impression with the full lips out and a dance jive....This girl has rhythm and already loves ACDC and the Rolling Stones! (Like she has a choice in this family!)

I promise to update as soon as I know more about LMS...I know we are ALL eager to know!
Much, Much Love- And thank you again and again for all of the great support!
Chantelle

3 Weeks Down Waiting for Court Date!

2009-03-05T17:07:00.005-06:00

Hi every Ethiopia baby lovin' blog follower! We are lovin' life just knowing what our little girls face looks like. She is so so so adorable!
I have wanted to post, but have had no news. This is not at all uncommon. Typically after a referral goes out, it is 4 weeks before courts dates are known. We are right on schedule as far as I know!
So, we have been waiting 3 weeks since seeing our baby girl's face for the first time. I expect to post next Thursday info on our court date. To get everyone up to speed here is what the rest of our time line looks like:
1. Get assigned a court date
2. Wait for that great court date!
3. Pass court
4. Wait for Embassy appointment assignment
5. Travel to get our little girl
I have been telling everyone that we are hoping to travel in June....This is just my estimation from the time lines I have seen. Once we know our court date, I am guessing it will be 2 months out. The GREAT thing we have been hearing is that the court that approves adoption in Ethiopia has hired an additional judge. There are lots of rumors, but I have seen many people get assigned a court date, then see them get their court date moved up earlier! This would be a major blessing!
And I FULLY expect it for us!
It is also common for cases not to pass the first time in court. I have the feeling that our case will actually pass the first time for a few random reasons.
Once we pass court, we are officially the parents! Love it! Then about 4-5 weeks after we pass court, we will travel to Ethiopia for our Embassy appointment and will bring home Little Miss Sunshine!!!!
She is still just a little bitty thing! I am thinking she might be about 7 months old when she comes home! We are so so so thankful for this little child!!!!
Please pray for our process to move swiftly so we can get LMS home. We also have several families in our agency with court dates very soon. One family is waiting right now to hear the outcome of their court to bring home their son Simon. Good Luck Newman family!
Then just a few weeks later we have another group of families heading into court.
I really have my hopes up for more updated pics of LMS... There is a family in Ethiopia now picking up their daughter, another family leaving on Saturday, and yet another family traveling the week after! We ALL hope that these families have the time to take new pics of our babies and when they do it is the most amazing gift!
As I posted a few weeks ago, we got new pics when the Griffith's went to get their beautiful baby girl. They have pics posted so check out their blog...She is a doll!!! And we are still loving those photos!!!
God has been beyond good to us during this journey. He has literally changed people's lives through this little child, who is not even here yet! Hearts have been changed, and all of our eyes have been open to another new life.
We were given an amazing gift by our family this past week to help us in our adoption and I am still so blown away. Your prayers, support, love, and heart for this little child have been overwhelming...
I can't wait to see what God has in store..He really is so big and gives us more than I could ever even conceive.
Here are a few pics of Bianca when she was Little Miss Sunshines age exactly...How tiny!

Much Love & Peace-Chantelle

2 Weeks Ago Today

2009-02-26T15:35:00.006-06:00

I have been so so happy about the baby, I have been at a loss for words to post. I hate to add a post since we got the best news ever 2 weeks ago today.
For anyone living under a rock, we got our referral of an amazing baby girl 2 weeks ago! She is unbelievable! When we got the first photos, I was of course excited, but I could not really tell much about her in the pics...I mean she seemed healthy, but the photos were not the best quality, so I was just excited to have a new daughter.
Then, one of the awesome families at IAN went to get their beautiful daughter (just 2 days after we saw the baby's pics for the first time) and they took a few pics of the baby for us while they were there. Check out their blog to see their adorable Hope. I cannot express how much this did for me...For our whole family. It was such an amazing gift to get those photos. Thank you Griffith family!
So many of you are asking what is next...We wait! For a court date..Should know what that date will be over the next few weeks. I will keep you posted!
I soooo wish I could show the pics to you..but Ethiopian policy prohibits it, until we are officially her parents and we get her home.
I will tell you she is just totally AMAZING!!! (I know I use that word too much!)
She has the best lips and big dark eyes, like Bianca.
Bianca is really coming on board with the idea of having a little sis. She is becoming a big girl, which is great and kind of sad to see! She will be such an awesome big sis!
Here are some pics of the proud big sis!

Bianca and her buddy Ty..These kids will grow up together hanging out!

Bianca had a big day at school when they had the Valentine's Day party!

Bianca and her daddy...Lovin' life!

Check out the Ed Hardy digs her Mimi bought for her....Ooohhh if I could just stretch stretch stretch it out...Momma would love this outfit!

Referral Day Play By Play

2009-02-15T16:23:00.011-06:00

Momma Becking makes it over to see her long awaited Miss Sunshine!

Sharing the LOVE with our friends-more like family! Aunt Cheri & Malaena

My great friend and also adopting momma from Ethiopia, Michelle! She will next!

As you likely have read by now, Bianca has a WONDERFUL little sis. We found out about Little Miss Sunshine on Thursday morning and it was a funny chain of events.
I had just been TOTALLY sulking on Wednesday. All day I was in a funk...It was one of really just a few days of funk I have been in this adoption round...But it was serious. Eric bought me this awesome Red Velvet Cake for my b-day and I froze the last half of it...(So I did not eat it all in one sitting!).
On Wednesday I had lunch with one of my best friend's, came home and put Bianca down for her nap...Was I hungry? NO! I sat on the couch going deeper into my own personal funk, and mindlessly walked to the kitchen, opened the freezer and got out the cake...
45 minutes later, 1/2 of the cake was gone...Even though I was eating it FROZEN..I finally came to my senses then really bugged out. Those of you who know me also know I am into calorie content and while I do love a sweet treat, I am quick to the gym to work it off. I did not even care on Wednesday...I was starting to feel like the day would NEVER come for us to see Little Miss Sunshine's face.
I spent another full hour feeling so sorry for myself...I am not sure if the sugar kicked in, or what but I decided to email Aneata at our adoption agency, confessing to her what I had done, and also pretty much BEGGING her for ANY info. I know I was clearly wrong, but it SOOOO felt like The BIG day was supposed to be this day and it was not happening. Eric said it was because I was about to go into labor! ha ha
Aneata quickly emailed me back (while I am sure fighting the urge to call in medical professionals!) and she told me to take a deep breath and relax....That no news was coming today and she was HOPING to call or email soon with good news....I had asked, if she was thinking days, or weeks to go...but she did not answer those questions....She is good at not letting the cat out of the bag! (I know they do not want to over promise..in case something does not happen)

Later I went to the gym, and tortured myself, I am sure still not putting even a dent into the red Velvet cake bump already starting to make an appearance on my back side!

I woke Thursday morning feeling good. Eric was home for the morning and we were having a good morning. I had one quick moment of hope, when I was in the shower and he said my phone was ringing with a "*03" area code....I thought he said "303" area code (Agency area code), but unfortunately it was "703"!!!!! I was slightly bummed but could not go through another "red velvet cake" moment.
We were heading out with Bianca when I got an email from the agency saying they could not find a VERY IMPORTANT document in my file...Then I felt freaked, because I am NOT the most organized momma in this town. I started to look for the document and the home phone rang...NO ONE calls our home phone...Again it was the agency saying they were trying to get in touch with me and would try my cell....STILL not EVEN on my radar....I actually started to get frustrated, as I already got the first message, now the home phone and then my cell rang.
Once I answered my cell phone I was totally frazzled with these ridiculous thoughts of NEVER getting a referral because I could not find our forms! (Can I still blame the red velvet cake for this behavior?)
I answered the phone, with a 'tude I am guessing and I immediately told Aneata we were looking for the form and I would get it to them as quick as I could (but not in a super nice voice)...She said okay, then followed it up with " I also have some more information you will be interested in,"
The world as we know it stops.....
"I have your referral, of a one month old baby girl....."
The next couple of minutes were a bit of a blur...Screaming, doing the ugly cry,the happy dance, screaming some more and grabbing Eric and Bianca.
Aneata told us a bit more info and asked if we were near a computer and literally 2 minutes later we were sitting in front of our computer seeing our newest little Becking for the first time!
True Statement:
This child is a little miracle.
She is between 1-2 months old, looks totally healthy, chubby cheeked almost.
She has a bit of curly hair already and the most amazing lips! She is just a little miracle!
Before we even saw her picture I told Aneata she was ours and we could not be happier. Then I looked at her, and man she is just so so amazing!
I have a really bad quality video Eric did his best to video us while we opened the email and saw Little Miss Sunshine for the first time. I am thinking I will try to post it...But be warned...I am a super sap.

So here we are...The Becking's...Table for four, please!
Everyone has been asking about the next steps for us.
Little Miss Sunshine will now be assigned a court date....It looks like we will wait just to get assigned a court date about one month, then we will learn of the scheduled court date, which looks to be currently another 2-2.5 months away....We HOPE to pass court, and I have every reason to believe we will (though common not to the first round)...If we pass then another 4 weeks until we go get her.
I predict JUNE to bring her home....Maybe we should call her Junebug....Just kidding.
I am getting a ton of heat about her real name and we are narrowing it down.

There is a family from our agency in Ethiopia as we speak picking up their baby...They have agreed to try and get more pics of LMS for us while they are there. She is living at an orphanage, and I have heard great stuff about the caregivers there.
We might have more pics in the next couple of weeks, but sorry we still cannot share them! Not until we pass court, and bring her home! Oh, the anxiety of it all! Sorry you cannot see her. I know it is hard!

One Happy Valentine Couple! We celebrated with a night our on Valentine's day! What a gift!
Thank you for the love that has literally POURED in from the people we love, friends, fellow bloggers, strangers-now friends, and our community!
I am blown away. Keep loving this little squirt home!
Much Love
Chantelle

SWEET MOTHER, WE HAVE A BABY!!!! REFERRAL!!!!!!!!

2009-02-13T16:21:00.002-06:00

It is true!!!!! The words you read are CORRECT!!!! We have a BABY GIRL!!!!
We got the call yesterday that we have a new little Becking baby girl!
She is 1-2 months old. She is ADORABLE, healthy, amazing, fantastic, wonderful, and a true angel from God!
I will post more later tonight...But I know so many of you have been totally waiting for this. She still needs your prayers.
UNREAL!!!!!!
So so happy! Chantelle, Eric & Bianca

The Mother Load Post...

2009-02-09T22:44:00.012-06:00

A BIRTHDAY
So, I had an AWESOME birthday last week! I was so hoping to get our referral on my b-day, and although it did not happen I was happy to take in the day with the people I love. Most importantly, Eric & Bianca. I do not post a lot about Eric for some reason. I am not sure why....He & Bianca are the most unbelievable gifts in my life. He has been my best friend for so many years now and I could not imagine any part of my life without him. By far, he is the person who has encouraged me to go for my dreams. For so many years, he believed in me, and as we kind of grew up together I learned that it was okay to think outside of the box. It is because God put him in my life that I get to live so free to be completely just who I am. So, thank you Beck. I love you.

He spoiled me big time on my b-day this year and we had a great evening out with my 2 best friends and their hubbies.

35 Feels great! I am loving the thirties so far. I would NEVER want to go back to the twenties, or especially the teen years....If I knew then what I know now! No regrets really, though I have done and said some really lame things in my life, it is all a learning experience!

OUR SMALL TOWN'S HEART FOR AFRICA!!!
Also so so so excited to post about our trip to Atlanta this past weekend! GOD IS HUGE!!!!! And those words do no justice to the reality of what took place there. We challenged our friends, neighbors, church peeps, and anyone who would listen to help us fill up a U-Haul to take to Atlanta help fill a container that will be shipped to the orphanages that Heart for Africa sponsors. We had this wild idea, and thought, let's try it ans see what happens....WE WERE ROCKED! Initially we thought, maybe fill up the back of our truck, then maybe a small U-Haul trailer....By the end of the day on Friday we had the biggest trailer my truck could haul PACKED with stuff for these babies in need! THANK YOU CAPE G!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
We put the word out LITERALLY a few days before we left. I am just still shocked at the hearts of people in our church and community. I love this place.

Here are just a few pics of the drop off sites.

Here we are arriving at the Heart For Africa offices with our hog of a trailer. A pic of us with the Ferguson's our awesome new friends, and Janine Maxwell! We are so pumped!

Two crazy Missouri mommas at the Heart For Africa Celebration Event

Lovin' Life with Eric at the event...We danced until I could not longer stand up in my heels!

Three CRAZY mommas with a HEART FOR AFRICA!!! We love what you are doing Janine! Total Maverick!

If you have not done this already and you follow our blog, please read It's Not Okay With Me, by Janine Maxwell. It opened my eyes so much...Not only what is happening in Africa, but also to my own blessed life and it gave me a new perspective that has stuck on what really matters in life. Go for it!
I have a few other things to report about our Atlanta trip, but they will have to wait a bit...Stay tuned for some inspiration.

ADOPTION UPDATE!!!!
OFFICIALLY 5 MONTHS WAITING
GOING INTO WEEK 4 OF BEING #1 ON WAIT LIST
Okay, we are earning our wings here, once again...We wait. I have been cracking up lately at so many of you who ask about any news, and then tell me you can hardly stand the wait...THANK YOU. I love you for that.
I can hardly wait also, go figure!
I THINK we are getting close...hee hee...Who the hell knows! Sorry if that offended anyone, but this blog is for my real life thoughts...
Every day is a waiting game...Will they call, will they not. Maybe I will leave my phone at home while I run errands so I can look forward to checking my phone when I get home only to find they once again have NOT called...Some serious nutso kind of thoughts going on over here!
I do want to let everyone know that we will NOT be able to post Little Miss Sunshine's pic on the blog until we are officially her parents. Ethiopia does this to protect their children...If you know me very well, you will also know that I will likely have her photo attached to my hip once I know who she is however!
I am pumped! so so so pumped!
If we get a referral this week, it looks like maybe May we would travel...Again is life goes perfectly! So please do not quote me on that, though I know someone will!
God is teaching me some good stuff in all of this.

THE SASSY MISS BIANCA B
Two Words...ROCK STAR
This little child is unreal. I am starting to see her grow up a bit and it is rockin' my world. She is starting a new morning program this week, and selfishly I am kind of dreading it...Hard to explain.
She is a crack up in every way...We are learning that at this stage in life however she DOES NOT LIKE momma holding another baby. I mean she FREAKS out lately when she sees me holding another kid, and these are people we know and LOVE big time! Hoping it is just a phase, and I am sure like any person who has been pregnant with a second child, it is kind of wold to think how that will affect your first born.
She has been enjoying wearing ALL of my stuff. Here is a funny pic after the ice storm. This was the gear I had worn outside..The Mini-Me Pics

I never knew I could love so deeply...

That is all for now...This has taken me FOREVER to post! My brain is fried!
Much Much Love-Chantelle

HEART FOR AFRICA....HERE WE COME!!!!

2009-02-04T15:05:00.011-06:00

Hi everyone!
Just in case you are a local and not on my LARGE email list, I want to make sure we ask everyone for donations for our upcoming trip to Atlanta this weekend! '
We are involved with an awesome organization called Heart For Africa. They are based in Atlanta and we are headed there this weekend with some new great friends of ours,Jeremy & Raelenna Ferguson
to an event for Heart for Africa.
In deciding to make this HELLLACIOUS drive, we also jokingly said to each other how cool it would be if we could get enough donations that we would have to pull a U-Haul down....Fast forward a few weeks, and guess who just booked a U-Haul!
Heart for Africa is sending a container shipment to Africa in April and they are taking donations for GREATLY needed items for orphanages there.
We have been emailing, terrorizing, and harassing (In love of course) our local community and they have really stepped up!
So we will pull our of this small town Missouri, early Saturday LOADED with AWESOME STUFF!!!
The local orphanage that will get a large portion of the goods is located in Swaziland. This is an orphanage that Heart for Africa has come along side to help. Their situation is dire and the needs are tremendous.
If you are local to us or are a local Atlanta peep, here is what the needs are for the container shipment:
High Chairs
Pack & Plays
Bouncy Seats
Walkers
Rocking Chairs
Small Book Shelves
Bottles
Disposable Diapers
Swings
Jumperoos
Underwear 2t and up

Bottom Line-All babies need love and attention....We can help. The babies/children at this orphanage have no beds/high chairs...no where to sleep, but the floor. Here is a great chance to make a difference with stuff that is collecting dust for many of us.
Check out Heart for Africa's-Janine Maxwell and read her life changing book- It's Not Okay With Me
God is good! Will update as we know more!
Chantelle

Two Weeks Down & Getting Closer Every Second!

2009-01-30T22:45:00.004-06:00

So sorry I have not emailed or called all of you personally who have left such great emails, comments, and voicemail...I am a flake...Sorry! I have been holding out for good news, though I did not feel like it was coming today. There is good news...We have been successfully waiting as the #1 family on the baby girl wait list for 2 weeks now! That is awesome...So I feel like now we are getting more in the realistic area of referral times. I am super hoping to get our referral next week for my B-day. How awesome would that gift be? I am pretty sure it would be next to impossible to top.
I did make it one whole week without stalking/annoying our people at IAN...I was really impressed with my own discipline. I did not know I had it in me! I am always DYING to know what is going on, but this week, I actually did O.K....Not great, but ok.
And for those of you (Cheri) who ask first thing..."Do we have a baby?" When I call...Love you and please stop! ha ha You know I will alert all forms of media ASAP once we get the call!
I am overwhelmed by the support and love I feel from my fellow bloggers, new & old friends, family, and even strangers that leave comments...It is just amazing how much love and support Little Miss Sunshine is already getting and we do not even know her yet! I hope she feels every bit of these good vibes & love wherever she is tonight. I pray that someone is picking her up when she cries, kissing on her, and making her belly laugh a lot while she waits for us. I pray for her family and that God would bless and protect them for making this selfless choice to give her a different life. And I am praying for all of you families waiting for referrals, waiting on court dates, stuck in the middle of the system, and for those of you making flight arrangements to go to this awesome country to experience the culture and meet your child for the first time. I am in it with you.
Much Love
Chantelle

Snowed In...& Lovin' It!

2009-01-28T22:02:00.017-06:00

Well the Becking's have been spending some quality time together the past few days! The weather in our area has been, how shall I say, YIKES! weather. We have been lovin' it because we have not had to be without power unlike so many people we know and love. Several inches of ice arrived on Monday night and was followed by more sleet and last night snow...Eric has had the office closed for 2 days, and even more important to me McAlister's has been closed for 2 days now...I am jonesing for some Sweet Tea!
We got a bit of the cabin fever today and worked and worked to get the Hybrid out of the driveway...Solid ice, like 2 inches thick did not help our situation!
Here are some pics of our stay at home vacation.
It all begins with a party...With all of Bianca's peeps.

Bianca, looking very pleased with herself after arranging all of her friends in the perfect order on her bed.

Just her lovin' life...Peace out y'all

Here she is, just putting her vibe out.

NOW ON TO THE WINTER WONDERLAND!
(Bianca's first real experience playing in the snow)

This is different...Snow angels? You guys come up with some weird stuff!

Oh, hey, a passing stranger offers to take a family pic...All for the love of the blog!

Good Times...This is pretty awesome.

I like to make my dad run fast over and over and over... I never get tired!

I can't feel my feet and there is snot frozen to my face. Are we still having fun?

This is BS...I am going inside!

Oh, by the way...still no news on Little Miss Sunshine...Every day is one day closer! Maybe a call tomorrow...Dare I post this sentence?
I have almost made it one week without harassing anyone from our adoption agency for any info! I have to hang in there.
Chantelle

One Week Down!

2009-01-26T15:41:00.005-06:00

So many people have been asking if we have learned anything new on the adoption front. Thank you SOOO much for asking and caring but we have not learned anything yet! I have been trying so hard not to stalk the ladies at IAN, but it is tough....I can hardly stay focused on my regular life. Tried to make a killer schedule this week so I would not think about it too much, but still I think about it..A LOT!
WE have been officially in the #1 spot for about 9 days. I did have a dream last night that we got "THE CALL"..So hoping that dream comes true really soon. In my dream we actually were referred a toddler girl, which I was surprised by, but I am open to whatever God has in store for us.
Have really been thinking lately a lot about older kids who need to be adopted. It is really messing with me. It is so sad to think about what they go through as they wait for homes. Who knows, maybe that will be our next step! I am not convinced that I will be a great mom to SEVERAL kids....Might just be Bianca and Little Miss Sunshine...who knows.
I hate it that adoption is so expensive...Breaks my heart really and I wish that would change...Of course, then the Becking's would be mistaken for the old woman who lived in the shoe...with so many kids she did not know what to do!
I did make a purchase last week...I bought a new crib/toddler bed and chest of drawers for Little Miss Sunshine's room...My mom-in-law is an awesome interior decorator and she did such a fab job on Bianca's room, and she is doing it again for LMS...It is really going to be awesome!
Can't wait to show you the completed project...Here is a pic of the stuff I bought...This is not the bedding just a stock photo...And below is the rocker I would like...We are going to likely recreate it with louder fabric.
As always...I WILL POST AS SOON AS I KNOW MORE!!!!

Much Love
Chantelle

The good stuff, the freaky stuff, and just me...

2009-01-21T21:57:00.007-06:00

So, here we are almost a week into being #1 on the baby girl wait list! Still have a hard time believing it! And please don't hate me fellow waiters of lists, but I am going nuts! I remember hearing others going a little off once reaching the coveted #1 status, and honestly when I read those comments, I secretly cussed them...Of course wishing if I could JUST GET TO THE #1 SPOT, life would be so so good. So, we finally make it, and since this is a place of honesty, I will say-go ahead fellow waiters, cuss me-BIG TIME if you need to. I think now I have moved on to a new level of freak show...Every time the phone rings I dive across the room to my purse to see if is is the agency on the phone...And when I find it is not them, I am not at all interested in talking to the person on the other end....And these are people I dearly love...Let me apologize now for this. I cannot control it.
I need some professional help most likely...AGAIN!

What an awesome week in our country's history. A new President- a historic milestone. A celebration also of the great Martin Luther King Jr.
We attended the annual MLK, Jr celebration tonight at our local university and it was just awesome. Dr. Micheal Eric Dyson spoke and he is just amazing! I loved what one of the speakers quoted tonight....from an unlikely source.
Speaking of the famous musician Jay-Z, these are his own words

ROSA PARKS SAT SO MARTIN LUTHER KING JR COULD WALK.
MARTIN LUTHER KING JR WALKED SO OBAMA COULD RUN.

Pretty awesome....

The Becking's with one of our favorite people in the world, Pastor T- We are so thankful for this man and the joy he has brought our family.

I am thankful for our new president. And even though we all have very different opinions on politics, I believe this is the right step for our nation. He is still human and will make mistakes, but I believe in his vision. Outside of that, I am happy to know that BOTH of my girls will grow up in a place where a black man is president. They will never truly know the struggles and challenges that have lead to this great day in our nation. And they will look back and find it hard to believe that there was ever a time that this would not have been a possibility.

God is good. I have a lot to learn. I want to always stand for what I believe in-just like those before us, who gave so much, even their lives for what was right.

To change to one of my other favorite subjects-BIANCA! Here are some pics in some of her latest Matilda Jane digs... (oh and before you judge, I downloaded before I thought to get rid of the red eyes!)

I call this outfit, a little bit country...a little bit rock & roll!

Who's your daddy?

Hours of fun....Cardboard boxes

Trying out her new mysterious look

Wahoo!!! Lovin' these last few moments of being an only child! Mom...Look at me!

2 year old book worm....Just like dad

Thanks for all of your love and support! We love it!
Chantelle, Eric, Bianca & soon to be Little Miss Sunshine

OH YEAH BABY!!!!!!!!!!!! WHO LOVES THE NUMBER 1?

2009-01-16T15:26:00.008-06:00

CAN I JUST SAY.............YEEEEE HAAAAAA!!!!! I just found out that our friends that were #1 on the baby girl wait list got their referral today of a healthy baby girl!!!!!!!!!! So, that means we are a MOVIN' ON UP AGAIN!!!!!!!! Praise God! I can hardly stand it right now.
And I am so so so happy for you Truman's! That is significant movement for all of us waiting for baby girl referrals this week! I am on cloud NINE...or should I say 1!!!!!
So, as it looks we are the next in line...did you read that out loud...THE NEXT IN LINE! to know who our daughter is!!!! Man, I cannot tell you the feeling of knowing that just around the corner we will get to see the face of our daughter. I am so humbled and overwhelmed.
GOD IS GOOD!
Chantelle

Like the Theme Song to "The Jeffersons"...Well, We're Movin' On Up!

2009-01-14T22:18:00.009-06:00

That's right, you heard it here people!!!! We have made yet another move on the wait list to know our little girl! We got a call today from Aneata at our agency and she let me know we were officially now #2 on the baby girl wait list!
It was a bitter sweet moment when she told me the family that was #2 above us, have decided to put their adoption on hold due to financial reasons...Man, just so sad. I did not know them personally, but I am a mom who has been waiting, and I know the thoughts that consume your mind, the love you feel for the face you have never seen, the tears of both joy and sadness as you wait. My heart really goes out to them today.
That being said, we are just so happy and thankful to be one step closer in the process. So many of you ask every time I see you-so FINALLY! A great update! So, so much is changing with Ethiopian adoptions recently! I am no expert, but we thought at this point we would almost be finished with our adoption, and now it is looking like at least 3-4 more months...Who knows really! So much depends on when we get our referral and how smoothly our court date/dates go. The process from referral to home is slowing down a good deal also. I told many of you from the beginning it could be like 60 days from referral that we would travel....That is no longer the case. It will be a longer process. The courts have slowed and the influx of adoptions has increased so much that it is difficult to process all of the cases.
We are just so thankful God has allowed us to have another daughter! I look at Bianca every day and I am amazed that she is our daughter. I know our parents feel the same way and I can only imagine what Little Miss Sunshine will add to our lives!

On another totally different, but GREAT note...My friend Betsey made it to the final 2 couples in the wedding contest. There will be ONE more option for voting starting on Friday so please stay tuned. I will post something on the sidebar to link you to the place to vote...This is it! The FINAL vote!!! I just know they are going to win, as long as everyone keeps helping them out! I can hardly wait to see them win. If you are in the STL area, you can hear them live in the studio on Y98FM all Friday morning. Just awesome that she is SOOOO close to this!
THE NUMBER 2 IS SERVING US WELL THIS WEEK!!!!!!

ALMOST THERE....

2009-01-13T11:05:00.007-06:00

Okay for those of you needing a Bianca fix I have tons of cute pics to post tonight. But, I wanted to give you an update on my awesome friend who is trying to win the wedding. Between facebook, our blog, and sending out emails...I think we might launch her into a solid first place! So many people are dying to know and at this point as of this morning, Bets and Scott made it to the final 3!!!!
Voting again today from 9-9pm central time...So please continue to let the good stuff happen for them. Please take the 30 seconds it takes to vote for them...Then do something really nice for yourself today!

http://www.y98megawedding.com/default.asp
Click VOTE, Email Info, Betsey & Scott Couple #3!!!!

Can't wait until they win and I get to post all of the awesome pics of their wedding! It feels so good to help out a good friend. God is good and I am so thankful He put Bets in my life!
Chantelle

4 MONTHS ON THE WAITING LIST!

2009-01-09T22:37:00.007-06:00

Yes, it is true! 4 months down on the wait! That is how I am looking at it...at least today! We are 4 months closer than when we started down this adoption road! I am so excited to think of how different life will be this time next year...I will be eye ball deep in little ladies! Knowing us, I will be posting about our wait for #3! Don't freak out, Eric-if you are reading this! ha
It has been so cool to see God at work in the past months since we decided to start this adoption. We were met with some pretty serious hurdles with many people when we first told them about adopting from Ethiopia. I know adoption is a journey for each person, and anyone who chooses adoption goes through such a learning process. For me, it has always been about faith and really just trusting God. Each time I think, okay God, I totally trust you...Now let's get on with it! -Of course, it is not on my time schedule, as I have a hard time learning!.
So we wait!
We could not be more excited that we get to be blessed with a little baby girl from Ethiopia. I can hardly believe sometimes that God would give us another little wonderful life to love! I think about what she will be like, what she is doing right now, who is holding her, what kind of personality she will have, and what her voice will sound like.
Can just hardly wait!
Check out this pic of Bianca and her best friend Malaena-Sloan...Just two BFF's hanging out at McAlister's waiting for their sweet teas! They have to eat lunch together at least once a week, and the momma's love hanging with each other also! They will grow up together and I can only imagine what these 2 will get into as they grow up. Just look at those smiles!(Also check out Bianca's purse! That was a mimi & gigi thing!)

Help my great friend...This Momma wants an AWESOME wedding!

2009-01-06T22:29:00.007-06:00

Okay, one of my best friends of all time Betsey, is engaged. I spent the summer years ago with Bets studying in Thailand. We had barely even met when we became roommates. Very quickly she became a very special person in my life and I love her dearly. Now she and her fiance have entered some crazy radio promo for a big wedding giveaway for Valentine's Day....And they made the finals...They have a great story!Please do this for me...for her..It only takes a second and this chic deserves an awesome wedding!
If you click on the link below and vote for couple #3...She has a great chance to win! Every day through January 11th. One vote per computer each day.
I never send forwarded emails, I never ask for people to do favors, but my friend Betsey is a wonderful soul. She is on a major budget and so deserves a great weeding. She deserves this gift.
Please click on the link and vote for this great person!
I will make sure she invites you all to the wedding! ha
This giveaway will provide every details for Betsey's wedding along with a honeymoon.
As Dora says, " We need your help!"...Yes, I am a dork.

http://www.y98megawedding.com/default.asp Click VOTE, Fill in Email Info, Then COUPLE #3
Love you Bets!

Becking Holiday Shenanigans

2009-01-02T16:00:00.009-06:00

The rockers are in the house! Bianca and her dad on break from a jam session...Sign of a great dad...Willing to wear a pink!
This is one of my favorite photos of Bianca and Eric from the holidays!
I am amazed to watch this kid dance and jam out on the guitar. It is a total hoot. I guess it is to be expected in this house. We recently bought a new truck and it has satellite radio in it. Eric has been in HEAVEN because it has an "AC/DC Button" in it! All AC/DC all the time...And of course it has flowed over to short stack. We turn it on and she totally rocks out to it....Heee-lar-ious!
Born to Rock~

One big old ball was had by the Beckings crew over the holidays! I wish I had lots of pics of Bianca opening gifts, but we did not buy gifts this year...Don't feel bad, she got the mother load from the grandparents. We have received some slack from friends from last year's gift selections, and we still stick by our choices! Last year, we wrapped up all of Bianca's favorite toys and she had a grand old time unwrapping them all! Now to me, that is the true Christmas spirit...A child opens your eyes to so much! We did enjoy the great stuff Bianca had already gotten from the family on Christmas day. It was awesome to not be rushed, and just hang out as a family. Eric took a few days off and we slowed down this year and really took in our time together.
Those of you who know me, also know I LOVE "stuff"! I am making some changes that have been so great. I am loving it! The stuff is still interesting of course, but I am looking at other avenues to entertain my mind.
Here are a few pics of Bianca's favorite scary face!

Oh, on the note of "stuff" I was discussing earlier, a tid bit of good info for you ladies who love to shop for cool stuff for your girls in the house. Matilda Jane Clothing has ALL inventory 60% off right now and you can buy direct from their website. Cool people and really cool stuff for girls. Check them out! Below is a little sample of their coolness and Bianca is going to be rockin' in ALL of it with this sale! Thank Matilda Jane peeps!

I Need Africa More than Africa Needs Me

2008-12-24T15:55:00.001-06:00

Something to think about as we open gifts, celebrate with family, love each other...love people...love EVERY person.
Remember we are all here for a purpose.
I need Africa more than Africa needs me...
God Bless you today. And we live for a better tomorrow
Love Chantelle

HAPPIEST HOLIDAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-12-18T23:44:00.004-06:00

This year's holiday card...Okay, please don't be bummed if you did not get one. (Could still be in the mail)...And maybe I did not get one to you and if not I am sorry. Prices way up from the "do-it-yourself" Walgreen photos I sent out so often when Bianca first came home. I TOTALLY underestimated how many I needed when I ordered, and once it was time to order even more, I was busted on the budget! (I rarely talk budget, but it can get crazy!)
Know that we love and adore our peeps.
Isn't Bianca a little doll?
Much Love, Chantelle, Eric, & Bianca

A LITTLE bit of news!!!!

2008-12-15T21:08:00.003-06:00

I heard through the grapevine today that we have moved up 2 spots to #3 on the waiting list for Little Miss Sunshine!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is huge!!!! It has been a long time coming and it looks like there has finally been some movement. Now, I am pretty sure this is fact, as I read several posts about it on our adoption agency forum. There were some major changes last week in staffing so I am not surprised I did not get a call. And no big deal...Good news is always welcome!
So, I have not called everyone for an update because I have been a bit under the weather the past 24 hours. And we are still 3 spots away from our referral, but that is still awesome!!!! So for those of you who would love to know when we will have a referral, I still have no idea. I will post just as soon as I know! And I will post as we move up to #1! Praise God! 2 families from our agency were placed with their baby girls...How awesome. There is nothing sweeter than a family coming together.
Thanks for caring and following our journey....We thank you love and appreciate all of your prayers for Little Miss Sunshine. I pray someone loving is holding her right now and loving on her. And that God is giving her comfort in knowing she will have a family soon.
Big Love-Chantelle, Eric & Bianca

100 MILES AN HOUR...IN A GOOD WAY

2008-12-10T21:39:00.018-06:00

Well, ever since Bianca turned 2 and got her new Jeep, I can hardly keep her at home. She was off to STL in it on this day. Big sale at the Lucky Brand store, no doubt. ha ha It is hoot to watch her attempt to drive it. She is great at hitting the gas pedal...and not so great steering it!

She also loves a romp in the leaves...EVERY time we go toward the car...That is fun for the first 20 times...then momma gets a little tired of it~ but not Bianca!

Gettin' er done at the tree farm! Another COLD night! We were in and outta there in no time! Bianca seemed to love it!

This is PRE-Christmas parade last Sunday night...When we could all still feel our fingers and toes...Holy Crap it was a cold one. Bianca hung in there, much longer than I was hoping! I was ready to get the heck out of there!

Here is another great passer of time for hot stuff. She loves to "help" in the kitchen, but unfortunately for the refrigerator, Bianca has chosen it as her work out area...Think Flashdance! She hangs on to the bar on the pull out freezer door and does all kinds of dance moves, followed by repeated open and slamming of the door. She is a piece of work!

Yo yo yo, check me out momma!

I am just so thankful for Bianca's little personality. After some of the things I have been exposed to -going on in other people's lives, I feel overwhelmed with thankfulness. It is a good time to really take in our blessings. I know I need to get over my own personal pity party for the lack of referrals coming from our agency. They are great, and as many of you have reminded me...It is in God's perfect timing...Not mine. Thanks for the reality check.
Much Love
Chantelle

3 Months today on the wait list for Little Miss Sunshine

2008-12-08T21:46:00.004-06:00

Today is officially the 3 month mark we have been waiting for our referral of Little Miss Sunshine. I know with most agencies this seems like no time at all, but when we started the process there was no wait time with our agency....So I have been a little anxious lately as there has been NO movement in 3 months on the girl wait list. No pity parties here, as I know God has a plan. I just think a lot about our daughter in Ethiopia and it is like I already miss her although I do not yet know her.
This is an area I have always struggled with....LACK OF CONTROL over a situation. You would think I would learn after our long wait for Bianca, but alas, I am still as stubborn as before.
Actually most days are great, and I just feel so thankful for what God has given us.
Today when I was feeling bummed and looking at all of the other blogs I love, I came across some really sad news. A friend of a blogger friend of mine has suffered major tragedy.
A wonderful family was about to go pick up their little girl from Guatemala...literally almost through this long and crazy process, and they found out that she was killed tragically. Her name was Josi and she was 5 years old. Please pray for this loving family who are now going through what I am sure feels like the darkest of days. You can read their story on Carla's Blog and please send them some support & encouraging words in this time of sadness.
I cannot imagine...The long wait was almost over for them. They were anticipating the call that told them they could go and pick up their little girl. Instead they received such terrible news. God be with them. I cannot wrap my head around the sadness they must feel.

When I read their story I felt like any problem I have is nothing in comparison. You really just never know what people are having to go through in life.

We will continue to wait for God's perfect timing to bring Little Miss Sunshine into our lives.
Thanks to everyone who asks about her and looks for updates on our process. We are so happy to have people who love us and are interested in this journey we are taking. I am excited and thrilled that God would provide for us to bring home another baby.

NO NEWS IS GOOD NEWS?????

2008-11-29T22:01:00.002-06:00

Sorry I have not posted for a while about the adoption. So many of you have asked and I have not gotten back to you...Sorry for that.
I have heard NOTHING on the adoption front. As far as I know we are still #5 on the wait list...and waiting and waiting...No movement for some time now.
I am so torn between my feelings this time around. For the most part I have not been too stressed during the wait...but I have had a few moments lately. Okay, this weekend in particular. As I enjoyed my time with our families, I could not help but wonder about where my other daughter was...what she was doing, who was taking care of her, if she was in an orphanage, if she was being held and loved on....so many thoughts.
On the other hand, I can only imagine how sad it must be to be on the other side of our adoption...The family that will mourn the loss of their baby, no matter the circumstances. It just breaks my heart.
I am praying that God will protect our daughter and her birth family through this crazy process that will bring us together. I know she will have already been through some serious trauma in her little life before she will become a part of our family.
I guess that is why I am so eager to know her. To see the first photo of her little face. The little face I have imagined a thousand times and already love.
I am ready to get a move on, and see this happen.
I am also thinking of Bianca and just taking in our time together.
God has blessed us in such a wild & crazy way. I can only imagine what He has in store for our lives.
If you are a prayer person, please pray for Little Miss Sunshine today. I feel like she could use it.
And I PROMISE....as SOON as I know something I will post all about it!
Thanks for thinking of us!
Chantelle

Advent Conspiracy Promo Video

2008-11-21T23:58:00.001-06:00

This is what it is really about. Check out this video before you start buying stuff...I have had several people refer to this video in and around my life in the past few weeks.
We fill our holidays with BUYING instead of LOVING and CARING...I am guilty.

More Birthday Fun & Room For One More Event

2008-11-16T21:31:00.014-06:00

Hi everyone! Man, have we been in a whirlwind this week...In a good way. Bianca has had a birthday WEEK, we have been planning and had our first Room For One More event, and so much more!!!!
Bianca got the mother load gift from her Mimi & Pa on Sat. Here are a few fun pics when she got her Barbie Jammin' Jeep.

What lies underneath the sheet????

Oh, yeah...Pink is soooo her color!

Hanging with the fellas and her new rig.

Another B-day meal!!! I could get used to this...and I am of course, only helping eat this desert because Bianca "needs" my help....

Bianca is lovin' Mimi & Pa

I think we are going to retire the Birthday boppers this week. We got our money's worth on them and man, have I had my share of cake and ice cream....I think momma packed on a few extra pounds this week!
Today we had our first open house for Room for One More...Scroll down to learn about RFOM.
It was awesome. We had an excellent turn out and several people shared their adoption stories...Even a couple of dads. It was too cool. I loved meeting people who have such a desire to adopt...and a few women who feel so strongly about adopting-while their husbands are not anywhere near the same feeling. God has a way of working on people's hearts. I can't wait to see what happens.
God is good...All of the time. I need to have that tattooed on my forehead.
Here is a pic of the three us us that created Room For One More...And Check out the T-shirts!!! They are available for sale by the way!

I want to blog so much more about the event and how great it was, but I am totally checked out...A great, long, and exhausting day! I will give more details soon.
Thanks to every person who has supported this cause. I am awful about call backs, emailing, and just basic communication these days it seems! But we do love and appreciate everything people do to support the things we love-
And a special thanks to our families for being so supportive. Janis-Eric's mom is always ready and available to help and my mom-Jill has just really tried to support us as a family also. I am so glad that we live close to our family...One of the best decisions we have made... to move back closer to the people we love the most.
Love you guys
Chantelle

BIANCA TURNS 2 YEARS OLD!!!

2008-11-13T22:37:00.010-06:00

What a B-Day Bianca had yesterday!!!! She had a full-on FREE day! People laugh about our Free days...We have several of them, mainly because I think it is cool. But yesterday added a whole new level of FREE to the day. Basically a no rules day....total freedom, with lots of dancing, singing, sugar, and lovin'.
She had a ball and so did we! Later this weekend we are going to do some more fun family stuff, and she is getting a really cool present from the grandparents on Saturday...Will post pics soon after.
Thanks to everyone who loves and supports Bianca. She is loved so big by so many, and that is just so huge for us also.
We Love Big- Chantelle, Eric & Bianca

This is Bianca's version of showing her new age! She is so pumped!

Let the sweets begin!

How sweet is this child? She is growing too fast, and her indpedence is in full form!

Bianca LOVED blowing out the candles this year...We did it over and over and over!

This little face is priceless...I am such a sap for this kid!

Of course, Bianca had a B-Day lunch with her best buddy Malaena-Sloane and Aunt Cheri

Check out the B-day bobbers...She rocked these all day!

INTRODUCING....ROOM FOR ONE MORE

2008-11-09T15:12:00.002-06:00

Hi everyone! We are sooooo happy to announce the official launch of Room For One More. It has been a very long process to get to this point, but as of next Sunday, we are full steam ahead.
The idea for Room For One More started when a group of us (Shari Stroup, Shelly Nall & myself) starting some very long conversations. We are all adoptive moms and we all have such a heart for adoption. I remember countless conversations where we would all say some of the same things.
* I wish people could grasp the crazy huge blessing it is to be an adoptive parent
* What if every solid family/single woman/man in America chose to adopt ONE child?
* Why don't more people adopt?
* Why are there not more resources available to people interested in adoption?
* Why don't we do something about it?????????????
And the list goes on of course. I want to say, I realize not everyone is meant to adopt, though in my crazy mind I can't imagine why when I look at Bianca's little face...But I have had wise people tell me this so I trust it!
After many many of these conversations Room For One More was created...This is who we are:

A group of women drawn together by a passion for orphans. We are each adoptive moms and are committed to make a difference for orphans in the world. Room for One More is a place created to inform, counsel, educate, and help raise funding for families interested in adoption. We are passionate about this mission and eager and available to help those in need!
For those of you locally who follow the blog, we are having our first event Sunday Nov.16 at Cup-n-Cork in downtown Cape from 3-5pm. The month of November is Adoption Awareness Month, and in honor of this Room For One More is sponsoring an Adoption & Orphan Awareness Open House. There will be several adoptive families there available to talk to people about adoption. We will also have resources and information available for people interested in learning more about adoption. We welcome everyone to the event! We would love to see our friends and families show up to learn more and spread the word.
Here is the thing...I am here to help people...in many ways, but one of them is through adoption...I have a huge heart for adoption and I am so excited beyond words to help people exploring adoption...And it can be confusing at times!
I believe there will come a day where adoption is very common and most families choose to adopt a child in addition to bio kids....It will not be a last resort, but a common choice. And I see people already moving toward this. God clearly calls us to look after orphans, no doubt about it. I love the idea of seeing people step up, and once they do realizing it is the biggest gift they could ever receive...
Hey, it is my blog, so I can have my own vision for how I see the world, right? ha ha

Room For One More website is being built currently (THANK YOU ELEMENT74) I will post it as soon as it is finished.
T-shirts available!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Much Love!
Chantelle

It's Not Okay With Me....

2008-11-04T20:49:00.002-06:00

I have been blown away over the past 3 days. I had a new friend tell me about a book that I HAD to read...I will be the first to admit- I rarely finish a book! I read about half way through and get distracted or move on to another "must read". I will say-and Eric can testify to this...I read this book within 2 days...And I would have read it in one sitting..but an almost 2 year old exists here, so it was not possible.
It rocked my world. I wanted to post about it yesterday but I was not sure what to even say about it... and I am still at a loss for the appropriate words.
IT'S NOT OKAY WITH ME -written by Janine Maxwell -The book I am speaking of. Have you ever read something and felt like it was written with you in mind? That is how I feel about this book, and the author-what an awesome woman. I am so happy that I slowed down enough to read this book. It has wrecked my world...in the right way.
It is tough to read, and yet so needed by everyone.
Janine Maxwell along with her husband also run Heart For Africa which is an awesome organization in itself. Take a look at what they are doing. Isn't it wild how God puts people, conversations, situations in our paths?...At just the right time?
If for no other reason, get this book if you have been feeling a bit sorry for yourself lately (I do this sometimes...I am sure I am the only one), or down on your luck...This is a good reality check for all of us.
If you feel like you are not doing something to make a difference in life....Let this book expose you to severe need and also give you an avenue to get involved.
I will have to write more later....Still porcessing.
Much Love-Chantelle

WHO LOVES HALLOWEEN??????????

2008-10-31T22:16:00.011-05:00

Check out this Little Hippie posing Diva! How hilarious!
Our little groovy chic got some wardrobe assistance from Grammy B. She tailored this little number to fit her perfectly!

Ready to OD on candy! Momma and Bianca are ready to rumble!!!! Peace Out!

How cute are these two? This is one of our friend's daughter with Bianca..She is soon to be a big sis from Ethiopia also!!!!

Here are 2 crazy ladies! My friend Michelle and myself...I was a rocker/hippie, and she was a scarecrow. Michelle is going to be an Ethiopia momma also!

Trick or Treat "In Action"

Family pic...Did I mention I am married to Brett Micheals from Poison...I don't like to brag about it, so I don't mention it much.

I HAVE BEEN TAGGED...SEVERAL TIMES NOW! Major procrastinator!

2008-10-27T16:25:00.009-05:00

We love fall...And hats!!!!!

Okay so I have been tagged...Not once, not twice, but many many times...I usually ignore the tags, but now I am beginning to feel guilty for not responding so to all of you...First group, Cheri, Vonstroup's, and I think McMurray's..And yes ladies I know it has been many many moons, and now to my new friends Mindy, and Leah.
I feel I must respond. Laziness I guess has kept me from it, and I am not one to follow rules all of the time! ha

So here goes..I am sure it will be riveting!
1. When I told Eric there was nothing weird about me to report, it took him a moment to catch his breath from laughing so hard. ha ha..Here is one he IMMEDIATELY reminded me of:
I am deathly and irrationally afraid of alligators...Like I am worried one could eat me. Do not judge me. I cannot even stand to see them on TV. I freak out.
2. I now and have always talked out loud to myself throughout the day..all day. Never thought the least bit strange until I married Eric and he NEVER has done this...Second thought, he might the odd man out on this one. I have been caught several times talking to myself in my car when I look over and see another person in a neighboring vehicle staring. (now I have an excuse..Bianca!)
3. I am ALL IN or NOTHING....There is no gray area in life for me...With most everything. I am a total DIE HARD, or NO GO on most every major issue. I am extremely passionate and a bit of a dreamer.
4. I lived in Thailand for a summer while Eric was in chiropractic school... LOVED IT! A scooter for transportation, rode in tuk tuks, on elephants, lived among the monks on a monastery tour and hung on for dear life of the back of Thai taxi motorcycles-with little to no understanding of the language.
5. I have spent time in Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, & Morocco, living with locals in orphanages, AIDS havens, Refugee camps.
6. I used to be a shopping addict...I have made great progress in recovery over the past year, but still love a good day at the mall!
7. I am addicted to McAlister's Sweet Tea..I know it is bad. But, anyone who knows me most likely thinks that I have had a McAlister's Tea cup surgically attached to my hand. Every day...And If I am out of town I will find one!!!
BONUS:
*I could listen to the Rolling Stones 24/7...They never get old. Totally committed.
*I am a natural born to be hippy peace lover...It is just who I am.
*I have a tattoo of the omnipeace sign. I LOVE AFRICA
Oh, and as for the 7 I am supposed to TAG, I am NOT going to tag anyone but my friend Michelle...and only her because she is getting her blog up and running and this will get a bunch of people over to see it, and to support her family as they begin their Ethiopian adoption!
Peace & Love-Chantelle

Still #5...and other ramblings!

2008-10-22T17:44:00.006-05:00

Well, I know it has been a few weeks since you have had an adoption update so here we go!!!
We have been on the wait list for a baby girl for over one month now. This does not seem like any time to me with all of the good stuff happening in life...DO NOT GET ME WRONG>>>>MOMMA IS READY!!!!!!! We are still #5 as far as I know...Not any movement right now on the wait list for girls..but I know that will change soon. So for now we are happy with good old #5! I am so so so looking toward the day we get to see the face of our little girl.
Some stuff has been happening in my mind lately. I have been challenged...beyond-way beyond my comfort zone. I have been learning about people who do some amazing stuff with life...And I am feeling like I am meant to do more. I am selfish by nature...for those of you who have known me for some time, you know I have had moments of selfishness to the extreme in my life. Bianca has changed a good deal of that, but I feel something once again rising up within me.
More...More...More is on my mind. What can I do MORE of to give back, to make a difference for people in need...to live less for myself and more for what God is challenging within me.
These are all of my own thoughts, but this is a place to get honest, so I am. Does it mean that I need to take on more children this time around? Are we meant to adopt a sibling group, twins, one child, two children...still not sure.
We are beginnning an orphan ministry at our church, and it is going to be awesome. I am going to be as much a part of that as possible. Our church is also going to begin to really support local foster care...I had never considered what these kids go through in the system. It blows my mind. I met a woman at our church who is a foster mom and she is just inspiring. That is what I want more of. I want to surround myself with these people. I want to stretch myself, encourage and support others in adoption, in taking responsibility for children in need, to just STAND UP and STEP UP as a voice for these kids.
I have been meaning to blog about the non-profit we are creating. It is called Room For One More. Created by 3 adoptive moms who are committed to make a difference for orphans around the world. Room For One More was created to inform, counsel, educate, and assist families in funding adoption. We are also committed to inspiring others who may not see adoption in their future to step up and take action for children in need in other tangible ways. I will post more about it over the next few weeks. At this time we are working on the website, information packets, funding (gotta love it!) and just getting our focus. It has been in the works for over a year and just now we are seeing it really begin to take shape.
Life gets by so quickly, I do not want to be lazy and look back at how much I did not do...I want to look back and see what all God was able to use this simple chic to do to help make a difference.
Now let's get to some new Bianca pics. This chic knows how to enjoy life!

Looking totally indepedent in her little Uggs and jean skirt!

Bianca is obsessed with shoes...Typically mine...Heels especially!

BABY ELLA HOME FROM GUATEMALA!!!

2008-10-19T09:00:00.003-05:00

Our great friends and surrogate family-The Stroup's, arrived back in the good old USA late last night with Baby Ella! We have all been waiting for her since just after Christmas last year and we are SOOOOO happy for our friends to have her home. We headed up to St. Louis to welcome them home.
Head over to their blog and read the great story about little Ella. She is the second VonStroup child from Guatemala. She has a bio brother from Guatemala who is 2!!! How AWESOME IS GOD????????????
This makes the Stroup group and family of 8! Keep 'em coming we say! We have affectionately named them the VonStroups! Baby Ella is 10 months old.
Here are a few pics.
Sarah (oldest sis), Shari (ultimate Momma), Our great friend Shelly (Also Room for One More Co-creator), and Me...All happy as clams!

Part of the VonStroup family....A few of the kiddos did not make it...Too late for them, but here are the rest of the happy fam.

HOME ONE YEAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-10-06T10:10:00.005-05:00

I can hardly believe it, but Little Hot Stuff has been home for one year already! CRAZY!!!!!!! I have had the time of my life with her this year. So many moments- some of near insanity as I adapted to being a mom and left the "All about me and Loving it" stage of life....Then, so many many moments of pure joy just looking at her and thinking about how much I missed her when we were not together the first year of her life. I feel like I look at life so differently now. I maybe just have a hint of realization about how precious life is when we are able to be with the ones we love. I still look back at her in the car and am brought to tears thinking about how blessed I am to be the momma to this awesome child!
I am so thankful that her loving birth mom made the sacrifice to give Bianca a different life, and I know she must miss her so much. I hope someday we will get to meet her and Bianca will be able to know her if she so chooses. And I am also so thankful for Iris and Hugo, Bianca's foster parents and their great family. They took care of Bianca for almost the full first year of her life and they loved her so much. She will always know them.
I am thankful that we are a family that has really experienced God's love in our lives and we get be a part of that every day.
I love watching Eric be such an amazing dad, and I love seeing how Bianca loves him. I love watching my mom and dad, and Eric's mom with Bianca- and how her little life has changed them so much. She brings so much joy to so many people. It is wild to really capture in words. It blows my mind when I think about how much God has used a little child for so much good in such a short time.
I could never have imagined loving so big! Bianca has made all of our lives so full of laughter and love, and I am so thankful that God would allow us to be her parents. I am humbled by it almost every day. That is why educating people on adoption has become my mission along with caring for orphans. If people and families could only grasp just a little of what we have experienced by having Bianca in our lives, the choice to adopt would feel so different. It is a step of faith, yes, but it is just so much bigger than that. It is not in the least a sacrifice, but instead, the biggest gift I have ever received.
Take a look back at some of our favorite "homecoming" pics one year ago.

This is her last medical check photo we got right before we went to get her.

This is mommy Iris, Bianca's foster mom who loved her so big.

This is our last night all together. Bianca's foster family and us. Our night to celebrate this child. What a great time we had together!

Approved, Officially-The Wait, & The Excitement & Bianca!

2008-10-02T17:36:00.006-05:00

Well, several things have happened since our last adoption update so here we go!!!
As you know we have been on the wait list for just a short time now. Since we have been on the wait list, the courts in Ethiopia have been closed...Pretty much from the beginning of August to Oct. 1...So, that means it is open once again. They live life a bit different than the good old "do it all in a day" USA!
When NOT in the middle of the adoption process I have to say that I really appreciate both Guatemala and Ethiopia closing public offices for longer periods of time...Ethiopia was closed for the rainy season...I like that idea. I like to close up shop when it rains also!
Outside of the courts being closed, we had to redo a few fairly simple documents and resubmit them. So, we should be back in action this week with all paperwork being up to date. We also went a few weeks ago to have our fingerprints done once again in STL. And just last week we were approved from the US government to adopt! Wahoo! I guess they think we are okay people!
It is amazing some of the stuff that has to be done to complete all paperwork!
So, we are on the wait list, approved by the US govt., the Ethiopian courts are open once again...AND THE BEST NEWS!!!!!
The director of our adoption agency (IAN) has just returned from Ethiopia with lots of kids to be referred!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Could our daughter be in this group???? I can hardly wrap my head around it!
They are currently not releasing any info until all of the physicals are completed on all of these precious little people. Once they are complete they have said they will be contacting families.
We are, as previously stated, #5 on the wait list for a little girl, so we COULD be part of the OH SO LUCKY group of parents that get their GREAT news soon!
And, if not, that means we are CLOSER than we were before!
THE BECKING'S ARE ABOUT TO MULTIPLY!!!!!
We are just so happy and excited about this. And I cannot even imagine what this little girl will do to all of our lives.
I have just been so blown away lately at how big my life has been blessed and just knowing that our daughter is coming soon makes me feel even more humbled by how huge God is!
In the meantime, more Bianca pics!!!
She is still warming up to a new little sis! For now she is loving all of the attention and she is hilarious as ever.
The face says it all!

Last week she was in a sock phase and insisted on wearing one of Erics socks all day!

Is this hilarious or what? Bianca with her 2 cousins, Fisher & Klein and her Uncle Collin!

We are Back! Sorry for the lag in posting!

2008-09-26T10:03:00.008-05:00

I have been out of the loop for a few weeks and so behind on my posts! So, I am attaching lots of fun photos of little hot stuff. We have seen God do some CRAZY things in the past few days. Some I will share later and some, I will have to keep to myself as it involves other people-But trust me when I say I am CONTINUALLY blown away by how good God is.
We are loving life here at the Becking household. I totally LOVE fall and I am so ready for the fall weather. I am really trying to take in my time with Bianca. I know this time next year will be different as there Little Miss Sunshine will be here also. And while I CAN HARDLY WAIT for her to get here, I am really loving my time with Bianca. It is so cool to see her learning so many things every day.
I have to just say one more time also...A HUGE thank you to those of you who follow our journey and are so supportive of our adoption. We love it!
On to the PIC PARADE!
How sweet is she? I finally cornered her to get a decent pic...Sorry for the red eyes!

Eric celebrates hi B-day last week and we had a ball with Grammy Janis!

Wahoo for little hot stuff!
This chica loves hangin' with her daddy

2008-09-14T14:07:00.001-05:00

Below is an edited version of the documentary I created from my travels in Africa.

Water 4 Water Video

2008-09-13T11:14:00.001-05:00

Doing Our Part for Africa...Part 1

2008-09-06T10:36:00.011-05:00

I have been waiting until some of the adoption info came through to post this, and I have been anxious to get it up and running. A few months ago, Eric-(my husband) and his best friend (Justin) started Water4Water, a bottled water company where ALL proceeds go toward clean drinking water for Africa! We are soooo excited about this. Justin is a really awesome guy and God really got ahold of him and gave him the idea. Who does not drink bottled water these days? And how awesome if we could CHOOSE to buy water that actually makes a difference for those in need? Sounds right up most of our alleys! Okay, we are not, at least for now competing with Evian, or Dasani, but we are making our goals HUGE! So far it has really taken on a life of it's own in our local area. We are excited to see events choosing to buy Water4Water to make a difference for Africa. We are also seeing local restaurants, churches, gyms, & other businesses choosing to buy Water4Water as their bottle water vendor. A $1 donation per bottle and ALL proceeds go to providing clean drinking water for Africa. Right now all of our proceeds are being directed to Blood Water Mission- a great organization started by Jars of Clay.
Coming up next week we are a sponsor for the Young Nashville Party that Creative Artist Agency is putting on. My sister got us the connection as she is a rocker and CAA is her agency. We are soo excited about this. Personally, I am hoping that artists see this product and look at taking it on tour. Everyone should be standing for something and I think so many people TRULY want to make a difference! No matter what the plan, God has it figured out and I LOVE knowing that. We have been amazed at how many doors have opened up to utilize Water4Water already. And what I love even more is that people are becoming aware of the daily realities for our people in Africa.

Here are some of the realities I am speaking about concerning water:
* In developing countries, about 80% of illnesses are linked to poor water and sanitation issues
* 1 out of every 4 deaths under the age of 5 worldwide is due to water related disease
* Over 1/3 of the world's population has no access to sanitation facilities.
* Women and young girls walk as many as 6 miles a day to fetch water.
* In a world of unprecedented wealth, almost 2MILLION children die each year due to lack of clean water and inadequate sanitation
* Of all of the renewable water in Africa each year, only 4% is used because most African villages lack wells, canals, pumps, reservoirs & other irrigation systems

God can use regular people to do big things, and that is what I am fully expecting. I could not be happier that Eric and Justin have moved forward with this and I can only imagine what is to come! Look for another awesome organization I will be posting soon that a group of crazy women (me included) have started to create...Room For One More...

To Much Love and Thinking Outside the Box!
Chantelle

We are #5 on the Waiting List!

2008-09-05T16:01:00.004-05:00

Okay, so I told a few of you we were #4 on the girl waiting list yesterday and I just found out that we are actually #5. Do I wish we were #4, yes, and even more I wish we were #1 but I am happy that we are not #30! I need to take a breath! Okay, so what this means it that there are 4 other families waiting ahead of us to get their referrals of a baby girl 0-12 months old. God's perfect timing..If I could know what he knows or be able to see what He sees I am sure I would be blown away. The fact that He is bringing us together with another baby girl way over in Ethiopia is just wild. I love it. And let me say...there are no dull moments in the adoption world! You just never know what lies ahead.
God bless you all who have been contacting us. We are so thankful to have so many people on board and excited about Little Miss Sunshine. She is loved so big already.
Have a great weekend!

WE HAVE AN UPDATE PEEPS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-09-04T17:16:00.004-05:00

I am soo pumped and beyond excited to announce that our dossier is submitted and we are OFFICIALLY on the wait list for a referral!!!!!!!! Holy schnikeys I am too happy about this news! Since we are using a smaller agency (IAN) for anyone interested, there is not a long wait list. We are either #4 or #5 on the wait list for a baby girl 0-12 months!!!!!! Watch out...Baby on the way...But I can still enjoy cocktails along the way!
Do I have any idea how long the wait will be before we will see a picture of our future baby?...NOPE, no clue. I am estimating (and I did say I) 3 referrals this months, so I say October we will know who our daughter will be and I am fully focused on January for her to come home! I love it!
I have been talking to so many of you lately that feel God is leading you to Ethiopia and I have to say I believe God is doing something so much bigger than we can see.
Wow, just thinking we will get to see our daughter's photos soon makes me so emotional and happy, freaked, and anxious! I know Bianca will make a great big sis, and I have a flood of thoughts when I think of introducing Bianca to her new little sis. Bianca is front and center on all fronts of attention these days, so I have been praying for a smooth transition.
For now we are going to choose, "Little Miss Sunshine" for new baby girl's temporary blog name...So as you read in the future and see LMS you will know who it is!!!

I am so glad we chose the agency we did. I have been in contact with Leah Reeves and she is great! Check out her blog here. She has a daughter from Ethiopia and now works for IAN. It is a great smaller agency so they do not have as long a wait list as some of the other great larger agencies.

We will keep you posted!!!!
MUCH LOVE!
Chantelle

Tuesday Fun Pics

2008-09-02T22:30:00.006-05:00

New pics of the family weekend! What a fun long weekend for us to hang out with people we love! A little pic parade.
I will be posting more over the next few days...Big announcement...I have decided on a temporary blog name for Ethiopia baby girl...I hope you can stand the wait!
I also have to say, I have totally loved getting so many emails lately from so many of you. How cool are blogs? The fact that they can bring total strangers together is so rockin'! Love it!
I want to help support those of you guys in the adoption process as much as possible, the way others have supported me in the past. I am excited to see what God has in store!
I also need to say this..GOD IS GOOD! All of the time. I am seeing good stuff happening to so many people. And even sometimes in the not so good stuff, it is inspiring to see God at work.
Life is short, I want to live more and more each day committed to the things I am passionate about...That is what makes life so rich. It has just taken me several years to learn that...And I am guessing I will only continue to realize these things at a higher level as I grow older.
Chantelle
Bianca....exhausted after an afternoon at Grammy's with cousin Kylie!

What....More pictures mom??? Something is up...Why all of this blog activity...What are you up to?

This is little beauty Kylie Becking. She is Jonathan's (or J-Lo as I like to call him) little girl. (Eric's younger brother) This child is adorable!

I had to get a pic of this...Bianca patiently waiting on mom...ALREADY at her young tender age!

Here is what we spent the evening in tears of laughter over...And YES it can be dangerous to small children. Not too intellectual around here tonight!

All kinds of new stuff!!!

2008-08-31T14:07:00.007-05:00

When we visited Auntie Candy in Springfield this week we took lunch to Fisher's school and got to hang out during lunch. It was so much fun! We had lunch in Fish's class and then Bianca tormented Fisher for the next half hour! We surprised him and he loved it. This is a photo of Auntie Candy, Fisher, & Bianca.

Road Trip!!! We have been having A LOT of these in the past few weeks. This week we went to Nashville and back , then on to Springfield to see the cousins! Bianca is becoming a great little traveler, and she takes Monkey everywhere she goes.

Bianca got this cool new backpack from "Aunt" Cheri and she is loving it! I did not realize how small she looks beside it, but it is funny to see. She can barely carry it but demands to do it on her own! So much bling for such a little girl! She took her new pack to school last week. She is really loving school. She goes one day a week and just has a ball!

BIG GIRL & BIG NEWS!

2008-08-21T21:32:00.002-05:00

Check out the official BIG GIRL!!!! Okay, I am sooo proud to report...drum roll...Bianca is off of the bottle...Our dirty little secret is no more! She was soooo hooked on taking a bottle at naps and bedtime when she came home, we just let her have it..for too long.
Anywho, a week and a half ago I decided it was time for it to end. She was the kid that "still takes a bottle" at mom's day out and I could not let it continue. So last week I spent a few miserable days putting her down for naps with major tears...(and she cried too). It was truly a sad couple of days as she screamed her head off when I left her for her nap...But, alas, she finally is getting used to it...Then on Sunday night after being out all day we decided to try NO bottle for bedtime. She was so tired, it actually went okay, then followed by a few more days of bedtime misery. Tonight, when we put her to bed Eric explained to her it was book time, then bedtime, and sure enough when he finished the book and told her it was bedtime, she walked over to her crib and was ready to get it....Not one tear! She pulled the blanket up to her little body and put her arm around her favorite stuffed animal and that was it....Eric swears she was even smiling! This is SOOOOOO huge for us! I cannot explain it, but it is big. What a right of passage..No more bottle, now ready for a little sis, and just look at her pics, she just does not look like a baby any more. It is with mixed emotions I write her little sucess story. I need to get over myself and realize that her growing up is a good thing.
I think I had envisioned my 8th grader still taking a bottle and me- a poor sap of a mom allowing it!
Okay, so that is our BIG GIRL news, and now for even better news for our friends.... Our great friends have been waiting to bring home their second Guatemalan child and they found out today they are OUT OF PGN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Check out their blog and congratulate them!!!
They will now have 6 wonderful kids!!!!! What an awesome family! We love you VonStroups!
I celebrate for you right now!!!! To more good news to come and to us all growing our families and loving bigger tomorrow than we did today!
Chantelle