Yes, they do "grow on you" don't they, and become almost like a member of the family. The perfect time to take cuttings is about now, and I have provided a link below with some tips and other information. But keep in mind, it will take years to grow out the cutting to a plant of any size. I would suggest you consider making some airlayers of some of the limbs (which is like a giant cutting with roots) which takes about 6 months to form a root ball and, once cut off from the plant, will give you a decent sized plant that will usually bloom the first year. It is a much quicker way to propagate a larger plant that you have access to. Of course, the old checkbook method provides instant gratification, if you can determine the variety and a source to purchase it, but its not nearly as much fun! Good luck whatever you do, it sounds like a great plant.

Here is a link that might be useful: Camellia cuttings