I just got off the phone with Anthony. He called to give me an update on his soccer game.
Of course he won :-D 2-1...WOOT!
I asked him what time his next game was and he told me.
So I told him, "Well, I'm gonna get ready and I'll get your brother & sisters ready and we'll be heading out there to watch your 2nd game."
Hee Hee, His SISTERS
This morning Anthony had Sectional Tournament Games (I know, nothing to do with this title post, but give me a minute.). So I had to get him up and ready before 7am and head out to Hemet.
While driving into Hemet we were noticing all of the new housing developments that have been built. He pointed out a section of land and said, "Hey mom, isn't that where the farm place was?" I said, "Yeah, the one that sold the fruit & vegis." He chimed in "And eggs".
Then I realized that on the other side of the street just a bit up was where they had Buffaloes every year.
I started to tell Anthony that everytime we would drive by the buffaloes, Jose would re-inact the scene from "Dances With Wolves" where Lt. Dunbar meets with the Sioux tribe council and he is trying to tell them that he knows where buffalo are. Well, he is acting out a buffalo and Kicking Bird puts his hands up to his head like horns and says, "TATANKA, TATANKA".
Well Jose would always put his hands up with the horns and say "TATANKA, TATANKA".
Hee Hee
This morning after we woke up, I gave Delayna a bath, dressed her, etc. I told Dominic that we were going to go downstairs after I was done brushing my teeth, but I had to go potty first.
So, while I walked into the bathroom, he was on the bed with his little mind rolling.
He came to me and asked me, "Mama, can I go down stairs with Delayna."
I tell him, "No, you can't carry her downstairs, give me a minute and we'll all go down together."
Dom~"But Mooooooom, I'm a bigger boy & I can take her down."
Me~"I know your bigger, but your not big enough to carry her yet. When we get down there I will let you sit and hold her if you'd like."
Dom~"Ugh, but Mom, I'm bigger and I can carry her."
So I go into a story about one time Adriana was coming down the stairs with Dominic, her foot slipped and she got hurt really bad, because she protected Dom.
Yeah, he could have cared less.
So he walked away and I went to go brush my teeth.
While I am standing there, I see him climbing onto my bed & I hear something. Just a mom instinct of, "that's not normal".
I hurry and rinse my mouth and walk around into my room where what do I see?
Dominic walking toward my bathroom with Delayna in his arms!!!!
Thank God he was holding her correctly, but OMG!
He is definitely trying to be the "BIG" brother, but now I really gotta keep my eyes peeled!
He is too sweet! I had to blog, just so I can remember.
He has been waking up every morning and coming in to either my room or the couch and before he does anything, kisses Delayna.
He doesn't even kiss me good morning anymore.
This morning after we ate breakfast he asked if he could hold Delayna.
Of course I obliged, and took advantage to get some things done.
Here's a pic of Dominic watching his morning 'toons & holding his baby sistow.
I can't even believe a week has come and gone. A week ago today I was overwhelmed with emotions of being blessed with another beautiful baby girl. I hoped and prayed for another girl, but also knew that what the Lord was blessing me with was another child, no matter the sex and trusting him that He knew what He was doing. He always does.
We have had many visitors, phone calls, comments and emails. I am so blessed to have so many loving, caring and real people in my life.
Jose had a few sleepless nights, my poor Honey. He is trying to be Papa, but with work is wearing down. I finally gave him a break last night and slept on the couch. He said he slept harder than he has in a long time...My poor honey!
Delayna has had issues come late night time. First of all, she definitely has her days/nights mixed up! She is doing better with staying up during the day and sleeping, but it's all in time.
Secondly, she has belly problems. We weren't sure if it was colic or gas. After talking to her Dr and going over some of her symptoms, she definitely said gas.
So Monday night, Jose went and bought a bottle of Mylocon Gas Drops (or as we are calling it, "Our Gold", that stuff is expensive!).
She did SO much better that night! She was up every 3 hours to eat, but her belly wasn't causing her to start screaming at the top of her lungs for no reason without being able to calm her down.
Well, I took some pics (then the camera's batteries died, so no more pics :-( )
Here's Delayna at 1 Week old in her outfit Monica bought her & her little Vans...Too Cute!
Jose & I welcomed our 4th child, 2nd daughter into the world.
Delayna Lynn Herrera
Born January 20, 2009 @ 1:05 pm
7lbs 8oz ~ 19"
January 20, 2009
10:30am we arrived at Redlands Community Hospital in Redlands, Ca.
We checked in at the "security lady's" desk. She told us to go in and check in with the nurses and hand them a stack of papers that I did the previous week.
We walk back to the nurses station, and I have a very familiar face greet me. It was Markee, the lady that I saw the week previous when I went in to do all my paperwork. She was the sweetest nurse that gave me the maternity ward tour. She was very happy to see me and pleased that she got to check me in and get me going. She remembered Dominic and asked for him. I told her that he was at home with Grandma and would be in to visit later in the evening. She said that she had somethings for him and began to shuffle around her desk and in the cupboards. She had a wrist band out and was writing on it. I thought it was for either Jose or I, but no, it was for the Bits!
She wrote, "Big Brother" and put the date on the band. HOW STINKEN CUTE! So I asked Markee if she could make one for Adriana, she did.
After everything was done, she took us back to the prep room. I had to go and change into my lovely hospital gown, socks and this really cool belly band (I asked the nurse for one to take home). I expected the time to just drag by, but as I laid there and the nurse did all of her stuff, before I knew it she was shaving me down and getting me prepped to go back.
The anisthesiologist came in and introduced himself to me, then told me he was going to go back and prep for everything.
It was 12pm and Dr. Hordynski still wasn't there...That Doctor!!!
So I laid there and Jose and I just talked about things. It was nice and kept me really relaxed. I had to use the restroom and by the time I got out my nurse told me he was here. She walked me back to the surgery room and Jose had to sit outside while they did my spinal.
I walked into a room that was as cold as a meat locker! It was FAREEZING in there! I had to climb up onto a bed and lay over a table for the anthestisiologist to do his thing. There was another guy in the room, who's wife happened to be due next week & would be having a cesarian also. We all talked, while I tried to stay calm and warm (Yeah Right, that was almost impossible!). The nurse was really sweet and asked me about mine & Jose's "begining" and my life. I was open and found it fun that I was being asked such neat questions. The anisthesiologist was prepping me and walking me through every step. When he said, "Ok, your going to feel a little sting", I was thinking that he was going to numb me. See, when I delivered Anthony, I remember feeling the needle going into my spine. His whole delivery really was one of my most horrible experiences I have gone through in my life!
The nurse warned me before hand that when the spinal was in I would feel my waiste and legs get really warm and then I wouldn't have control.
Well, after the "sting", I felt everything going warm. I also felt the baby kicking and moving inside of me, and then all of a sudden, I didn't feel anything at all!
Now that I think about it, it was cool that I got to feel my baby moving inside of me just before it was brought into the world.
So, the nurse pulled the table away from me and told me to use my arms to keep myself up and she would swing my legs around to lay me down.
While all of this was going on, Dr. Hordynski was coming in and out, the "assistant", nurse and anethstesilogist were all talking about a film festival that Dr. H went to over the weekend in Palm Springs. We all had a very nice time just talking.
After I was swung around, Dr. H went out and called Jose in.
They put up the 'famous blue tarp' and started to prep me. Dr. H's assistant came in and introduced herself.
Then it all began...
Within a few minutes I heard Dr. H ask Jose if he was ready & to get the camera.
Jose stood up and was taking pics. I didn't know of what, of course, but after I saw them I was shocked!
Jose told me yesterday that Dr. H pulled her head through and waited for Jose to snap a pic. He would pull her out more and wait for him to snap another. That was really cool & sweet of my Dr!
While Jose was standing there snapping away, I remember laying there thinking, "I am gonna have my baby any second." I was taking the moment to give all the Praise to God for all the things I have learned and been through during this pregnancy.
It felt like forever.
Then I heard Dr. H say, "It's a girl, you have another girl!"
I asked Jose, "WHAT!?!?"
He was crying and said, "It's a girl!"
I asked, "Are you guys sure?" Someone, I think the nurse, said, "Yup, all her plumbing is inside."
Honestly, I was in disbelief. Everyone knows we were hoping and really thought it was a girl, but we never knew. It just made all that I have been learning through God's grace even more eye opening.
I just began to bawl and praise God for EVERYTHING! It's just a sign that everything is going to be alright. He has my world in His hands and my life is being lived out according to His purpose.
I heard her cry and they took her over to the table to do their stuff. Jose asked if he could go take pics & they told him sure, just stay away from the operating table.
He didn't get to cut the umbilical cord, but that's alright!
They finally brought her over to me so I could see her. She was so round & red. She looked perfect! (Dominic was not a cute baby, Jose doesn't like that I say that, but he really wasn't. He was very long, lengthy, and looked like an old man...SERIOUSLY!)
Delayna was perfect & absolutely gorgeous!
I asked for her weight & they hadn't done that yet. They told me they were going to take her & Jose out to do all of the stats, etc.
Dr. H explained to me that he was finishing up with everything inside of me & he would be tying my tubes next.
So I laid there and just took the time to relesh in God's love. Just the contentness of everything. I had such a peace about me, one I haven't felt in a VERY long time!
I tried to rest and doze off, but my face kept itching me.
I asked the nurse what was in the spinal, because I was so itchy. The anisthesiologist said it is a side effect & they ordered me a shot for it.
Dr. H, Liz (my nurse), the assistant, & surgeon asst all continued to talk about stuff, making me laugh and just keeping a nice time.
Before I knew it, they rolled me into the recovery room where I was greeted by Jose & Delayna.
The nurse did my vitals, etc. I got to finally hold Delayna. She was very sleepy & completely relaxed. They tried sitting me up, but I felt naseous as soon as they brought me up, so I had to go back down.
Liz came in from her lunch and told us that 'Great-Grandma' was there and wanted to see us. So I sent Jose out to talk to her. He brought back a little gift from her. It is a book for moms. I still haven't really looked at it, but it's one with little sayings & quotes.
While Jose was out Liz wanted me to get Delayna bonging with skin to skin contact. So we laid there together just loving on another. She wouldn't wake up & they didn't want me to nurse, because I still coudn't sit up.
By 3pm I was taken up to my room & adjusted. Jose went down while they situated me and got Grandma.
She came up and was stoked to get the baby. She had a pleasent surprise awaiting her in Delayna's diaper :-) Grandma was happy to change it.
Before long I hear feet running, and my curtain flies open to a very familiar face...Anthony!
Following behind was Adriana & Sarah then mom & Dominic.
Not much longer, Gail, James & Devin came to visit.
"For this child we prayed and the Lord hath given us our petition which we have asked of Him." 1 Sam 1:27
K, I'm going to try really hard to keep up with all her firsts.
***I promise to get her birth story & hospital stay up ASAP!***
In her robe, not liking it
She was NOT happy!
But she liked her head getting washed
All done & content
Lookin pretty with her mama
While eveyone was watching the Inauguration, I was at the hospital having my baby! Definitely a day in the history book & extra special for the Herrera's!
For those that don't know, Jose and I welcomed our newest edition.
God blessed us with a baby GIRL!
I knew from day one that it was a girl, but there was always a chance of it being a boy. My heart was set, but still had reservation.
I can't tell you how humble I am by so much love by people in my life.
I don't have much time to get into detail now, nor do I feel like it, but I will, I promise!
Well, here are some of my favorite pics of my baby girl so far...
Me before we left the house
Dr. Herrera ready for surgery
Our baby coming out
It's out, but what is it!?!?!
It's a GIRL!
Content laying on mama
Laying on mama, not sure if she likes this world or not.
Tia & Devin loving on Delayna
Sarah, very excited she got a girl cousin
Wide awake with messy hair
Dominic loves his baby sister 'Gloria' (I will have to share the story behind Gloria later)...LOL
Proud Big Sissy~Shes stoked to have a baby sister!
Anthony lovin he has a new baby sister. He is so sweet with her!
Today...
Dominic loves holding his sister, but only for a minute
My little girl needs some pink!
Dominic insisted on putting Woody in the bassinet with her...LOL
Grammie loves her baby girl
As long as I have a camera, pics will follow!
*Sorry, this should have been posted last night, but my puter wasn't getting signal upstairs*
Well, I have been on a MAD cleaning spree and I planned on doing baby stuff today, but my back wouldn't let me do anymore.
But I did end up making a list of what I have and I need to put out so I remember what I need and want still.
So here are my Haves:
Haves, all gender neutral:
5 -Heavy blankets
3 -Fleece type blankets
2 -Snuggle wraps
3 -Receiving blankets
*1.12.09, bought 4 more Total=7
1 -Washcloth
1 -Robe
6 -Towels
4 -Burp cloths
3 -Socks
*1.12.09, bought 6=9
1 -Sweater
2 -Bibs
3 -Hats
1 -0-3 mos Bundler
6 -Small 0-3 month Long sleeve onsies
19 -Small 0-3 month onsies
3 -Nightgowns, was blessed with 6 more from a mama at MOTS. Thank You Kindra!
1 -Med 6-9 month Bundler
10 -Med 3-6 month onsies
1 -“Special made” T-Shirt
1 -older baby monitor
2 -boxes Lansinoh Cream
1 -box breast pads
1 -nursing bra
1 -Snuggli
1 -crib toy, Crib, Bassinet, High Chair, Carseat, Stroller
NEEDS (before I have my shower):K, gotta make this fast!
Mr. Get It Done is in full force...LOL
Anyway, yes I have to blog before I am headed off. Adriana told me at one point during the pregnancy that her friend's mom (Carrie) said that I will be blogging just before I leave the house & I am...
I got about 3-4 hours sleep last night.
Got up with the kids this morning, whose little bellies were full of butterflies too...They are so sweet!
My neice is texting me like crazy, and Jose is jumping like a Mexican Jumping Bean :-)
I still have to shower, pack, pick up my prescription and fit in some last minute time with my Bits...That makes me really sad!
I was putting him to bed last night and reading a book to him. As tired as I was, I didn't want to "let him go". He has been my precious baby for 4 years and now a new one is coming in.
I pray that the Lord will comfort my baby boy and that he will do fine transitioning with the baby.
Well, I don't think there is much else to say at this point.
I kept thinking last night of all the "Last Time" things that I will do today.
I will never be pregnant again, which is bitter sweet.
Well, I'm off before I get too emotional...
See you when I have the next!
Well, I guess anxiety or hunger has kicked in...
Jose & I turned off the t.v. a bit after 10 pm & fell asleep fine.
I woke up at 12:45 to go potty.
I couldn't go back to sleep. My mind started racing.
Then I got a gurgling in my belly, so I figured I should get up and eat while I still can ;-)
My Grandma Roof called me earlier and I told her that I wouldn't be able to eat, so she told me to have a bowl of cereal before I went to sleep.
Well, I didn't listen, but I am now sitting here eating a bowl of Golden Grahams, my cereal I grew up eating with my Grandma Roof!
It always brings back memories of me sitting at her table when I was little.
She always had Golden Grahams and we would watch The Golden Girls.
Now, I don't know if Golden Girls was on when we ate the cereal, I just always associated the two together.
Well, off to browse the internet & hopefully get my belly full and back to bed. Until next post...
OVER & OUT!
I was dealing with a lot of negative emotions on Sunday and God just brought people around me that I felt comfortable enough to open up to. I'm not a very emotional or open person, don't know why, guess life has made my heart hard.
But I was able to open up, ask for prayer, receive love and it has continued into today.
I have so many people that the Lord has placed in my life to come up beside me and lift me up. I am used to being the back bone, the hard one, the one that gets everything done, but I have been put in a position to be humble and allow people to really love me and support me.
Thank you Jesus for your grace, mercy & love!
Thank you to all my many friends that have come up beside me in SO many different ways to love and support me. It is a true humbling experience for me.
My SheKnows group of girls that I have been friends with for over 4 years started a thread for me with all this support:
Kelley (SK):
Just wanted to start a post so we can all send our love well wishes to Melissa!!
We love you girl! I'll be thinking and praying for you & that precious baby!
Please let us know details as soon as possible!!
Steph (SK):
I know she's out on a date with Jose tonight (I believe) so I hope she checks in before she goes in tomorrow am!!
Melissa--thinking of you and praying it all goes perfect!!
YAY your having a baby on MY BIRTHDAY!!! WHOOOOO!!!
what an awesome thing!!
HUGS!
Jen (SK):
got your texts and i'm anxiously awaiting The Text (or call if you want 
) but know how happy I am for you! I can't believe it's almost time, i seriously can't!!!
Tiah (SK):
Melissa, I'm thinking of you all and sending love your way!! 
Thursday night Adriana & Anthony had team meetings for soccer.
Adriana's meeting was regarding her spring select team that she is on. Coach Randy was going over a new "award system" he is going to be trying out for the girls. They will get patches for different accomplishments. One is a "Goal Patch". He mentioned that for every goal that a girl makes, she will get a goal patch. He stated that last season, there was a girl on U10 that beat the previous record of 22 goals. This girl made 23 goals all season long and just happened to be on Coach Terry's team. If we had the patches, this girl would have 23 patches that she can wear proudly showing her accomplishment...
You better believe he was talking about Adriana!!!!
As I sat up as the proud mama and demanded that Coach Terry order the patches, Coach Randy asked if it was Adriana. I said, "Yup, and I'm the proud Mama!"
Then as the meeting went on Coach Randy commented that there are only 2 girls on the U10 SS team that are returning. He announced one, which was Kassie, but didn't know the other. Adriana raised her hand and commented that it would be her.
Yeah, she's the bomb!
Saturday Anthony had his second tournament game in San Bernardino. He was able to keep a shut out last week against San Bernardino's 1st place U14 team.
This week we played against Hemet.
I sat on the field, surrounded by the regional commissioner, Darcy (who happens to be a friend of mine) along with about 5 ref's from Beaumont.
While everyone was watching the game (by the way, it was a KICK BUTT GAME!) one of the ref's commented, "Man, that keeper is on it, who is he?"
Darcy answered him, "That's Anthony, he's Melissa's son."
I turned around and said, "Yup, I'm the proud Mama!"
He couldn't give me enough complements on how well he was doing.
Then Debbie & Christian (2 other refs) started talking to me about his talent. We were able to talk about what Anthony wants to do next year (he wants to go play football now) and my own anxieties about it.
They basically really told me how much talent Anthony has and that it would just carry over to his football and eventually, if he wanted to, he could play and succeed at both.
It is one of the most AWESOME feelings for someone to comment and rave about your children's accomplishments. Especially when they are raving about your child, and don't even know that your the mama.
I was just upstairs putting stuff into the baby's drawers and realized...
I don't have wipes...DOH!
What a retard I am man! How am I going to clean this baby's bum?!?!
Someone might comment and tell me to use wash cloths, but I don't even own a washcloth yet.
Guess I gotta remember some wipes next Monday when I go to the store.
OH, and I almost forgot to pack in the baby's bag it's Chupi's.
If this baby is anything like Dominic, it will LOVE it's chupis!
So, they are now in the dishwasher drying and will go into the diaper bag with the rest of the stuff.
Well, I posted the dresser post, now I get to fill it up!
I did the baby's laundry today, thought I would post pics of that too, just because...LOL
This is the baby's going home outfit
This is a shirt that friend's from church had made for us
My Onsies & socks
Pajamas
An outfit I bought a while back on clearance. I thought I would bring the baby home in this outfit, but decided not to.
I will be a mama of 4 by this time next week.
I had Jose take some pics of me last night. Here they are...
I took one earlier in my pregnancy from me looking down.
Here is one from last night...
I had been really worried about all of the delivery/recovery/being in the hospital, etc...
Well, Monday I had my last OB/GYN appt. Afterward, I headed over to the hospital to pre-register.
*If you don't know, I have dealt with anxiety and fear since I was a child. My mom still is very bound by fear. I have over come a lot, but still deal with a lot, especially of the unknown.*
So, when I went to the hospital, I was dealing with the anxiety of "the unknown" and needing to talk to people. So, as I drove from the Dr's office to the hospital, I was praying, talking to God and listening to Air1. Just getting into the mood of 'trust'.
I got to the hospital, couldn't find parking, that did NOT make me happy! I had to park in bum 'f' Egypt (as my step-father would have said). Then I was going to have to walk, up hill, forever to the hospital...Not very happy about that!
But, I have favor! There was a little man driving a golf cart, who drove up to me & Bits and asked me if I wanted a ride. At first I asked him, "Excuse me?" I thought I heard what he said, but then thought, "why would he offer to give me a ride?" Well, come to find out, because their parking sucks, they have little senior citizens that drive around on golf carts and give you rides...How sweet!
So, he asks me if I'm having my baby today..."Um, not today. Next Tuesday." So he tells me that I want to go to the Maternity Building. Oh, I didn't know there were two different buildings. So he drops me off right at the door. Thank you!
Then I go in to these little sweet ladies in their little 'lab' coats. I tell them what I was there for and they direct me up to the second floor.
I go up & it's almost desolate and kinda scary. I find the bathrooms and hit that before i go any further and then see a girl sitting at a table with a computer outside of 2 sets of doors.
I let her know why I was there & she got me all my paper work and showed me the 'waiting room' where I was able to fill out my paperwork. Very nice waiting room, might I add! They had Sesame Street playing for Dominic. So I sat there filling out my paperwork when a couple come in. The guy had a laptop and mentioned, "Oh, it works in here too. The Wi-Fi must only be available in the rooms & waiting rooms."
So I commented, "OH, you get Wi-Fi here?" He explained to me that he gets it in the room & waiting room, like he said previously...
WOOOOOO HOOOOOO! I am gonna get Wi-Fi while I'm in the hospital. I was very worried about that!
Then we began talking. The lady is 6 mos pregnant and had a previous c-section, but wanted to do a vag birth with this one. Well, obviously it was a place I needed to be at the time I needed to be there. I was able to talk to her and really help her with her decision of what to do. She had been keeping her previous 'C' from her Dr due to her own fears. It was a nice little talk and nice to see that I was used for something positive.
Then I take my papers back to the desk, but there is another lady there. She took my papers and I was asking her a few questions. She asked me if I wanted to go speak with a nurse inside the doors. I said, "Sure, that would be great!"
So, I go through the double security doors...OOOOOOH I felt special :-)
I go back to the nurses station and speak to a really nice nurse back there. She was THE sweetest! She took me back to the room that I will be going to and explained to me that when I come in, I would be taken back to the "special prep room" and be monitored. She showed me where I would be preped and then told me how the surgery is going to go.
She then told me that after I birth and the baby is cleaned up, the father would be brought back to the same room with the baby so that they can bond. How fareaking cool is that!?!?!
I asked her the time length before I would join them. She told me about 45 mins to an hour. I told her I would be having my tubes stripped, burned, ripped out (LOL!). She said that it would be at least an hourt to 1 1/2 hours before I was taken back.
Then we talked about visitor seeing the baby before I do in the recovery room & where the nurses/Dr's stand. We agreed on a lot of what she covered. So my family won't be coming until I am settled in to my postpartum room.
Give me until at least 4pm to come and visit me, please!
She showed me out and Bits & I went on our way...
We went into the "alligator" and he said, "Mama, lets go upstairs." I wasn't going to, just because I don't do anything that wasn't "planned". But then I thought, why not, lets go see upstairs & mabye see the babies.
So, we go up to the postpartum floor. I ring the bell & the nurses buzz me in. When I walk in, I see a girl that I used to go to church with about 5 years ago. Last time I saw her, she was going to school to get her nursing license. She was always VERY sweet to me & we are always cordial to each other when we do run into each other. It was nice to see a 'familiar' face!
So, I tell the other nurse why I was there and she asked me if I would like a tour. Of course I agreed! She showed me the floor and took me into one of the rooms.
HELLO~GORGEOUS!!!! These rooms are just...WOW!
I am SO glad I decided to have my last baby in Redlands! The whole building is awesome!
She went over alot of details with me, and I was 100% on line with her.
We went over my care after surgery~she really put me at ease.
We went over my diet & my expectations~really helped me feel comfortable & not as worried.
She answered all of my questions and was an awesome nurse, just being patient with me and explaining everything I needed to know.
I walked out of there with a HUGE load taken off of my chest!
Oh, and the nursery that you used to be able to go see babies in...Yeah, no longer!
They believe in keeping the babies with the mamas, which is awesome!
K, that's all folks. Off to take the kiddos to school...
Back in October, I found these dressers on Freecycle. I took Jose with me to go get them. When he first saw them, he was NOT happy! He wanted to get me back in the truck and run home.
I told him to just load them up and I would take care of the rest.
It has taken me a while, but I finally finished the baby's dresser last night. Dominic's has been done since November. I thought I took pics of his, but I can't find them. His is just painted grey with black nobs, nothing fancy.
So here are the results...
Before:
Notice the lovely flowery scenery? YUCK!
Yeah, the flower scene was all over the bottom
Drawers
This is the baby's dresser after:
It's dark chocolate brown and cream & cream nobs. The pics don't do justice.
I (actually Jose did, because I was tired and getting frustrated) lined the inside with really pretty paper.
Now I get to do laundry and put it all away!!!
A follow up to my "complaint baby post", that I posted yesterday....
God is just SO good! I am sitting here just in AWE with tears rolling down my face! I just read one of my dearest friend's blog : This Is Me
She invited my little girl over yesterday just to hang out & what she says about my baby girl in her blog, in my opinion, is just awesome!
I've known this stuff about my Little, but for someone to see it and just say how "cool & smart & awesome & has a great sense of humor, etc..." is something that as a mom is VERY touching!
My little girl is awesome! She's got her eyes focused on so much and is very focused on what God has for her too.
Jose always comments how beautiful she is and the is afraid for her to get to the age of dating, because he doesn't want her just running off with any boy, or anyone taking "advantage" of her. You know, the pretty girls seem to be the ones that get damaged the most, they're beautiful and they have an advantage.
BUT, I know that our girl is not only gorgeous, but she's got some smarts! She is focused on what God has for her & as long as we continue to raise her up, I believe the Lord will continue to do a work in her life. She may stray at some point, but God's word does not return void, and my baby will be strong & has a future!
Then, last night while at FUSION (yes I went, God wanted me there, because he had a word for me from Mike) Mike was teaching the kids about disobedience & disobeying your parents, etc.
Anyway, make a long story short and get to my point...
He was talking about his life as a child/teen and stated that soon he will be having his baby Eden & what will happen the day that she does some things that he did as a child.
Then he said these words...
"One day you will all be given a gift. Look at Jose & Melissa, they have been blessed with 4 gifts. I will be getting my gift anyday. We will all, hopefully be blessed with at least one gift from God."
When he said; "Look at Jose & Melissa, they have been blessed with 4 gifts." I felt like a rush of wind just hit me. I sat there and just began to cry.
God has BLESSED Jose & I with FOUR (4) GIFTS.
WE ARE BLESSED!
I *know* that, but for someone to see that and speak it was different than me *knowing* it.
Some people "just have kids". It's not a big deal to them. There is so much pain and hurt out there towards children. I guess as a grown woman who knows that pain, it's hard to accept that God has blessed *ME* with 4.
I've not "just had" four children, I've been BLESSED with four children.
WOW!
I praise you Father & thank you for your blessing!
I am in awe.
So the question has been asked alot these past few days...
Are you getting excited yet?
For the most part, I have answered with a, "Yeah, it's getting exciting."
Until last night. Bridget called and asked me the question and I literally just blurted out...
"No, not really. Anxious, yes. Who am I kidding, this isn't my first or second, I know what comes after the birth. I'm really not looking forward to nursing every two hours, not getting any sleep, the pain of my recovery."
Then I realized what I said..."OMG, I am so sorry, I must sound like a horrible mother!"
She told me, "No your not, your honest and you really know what a baby means. It's not all fun and games."
I guess I was able to let the truth out to someone who I knew wouldn't judge me or look down on me for feeling the way that I am at this point.
I was driving home after taking Ant & Sarah to church this morning and I just got an anxiety attack out of nowhere. Thinking, I will have a baby pretty soon that I will have to be getting ready for church. All the responsibilities that comes with it, the worries that come with it, just everything that comes with a baby.
Don't get me wrong, I am excited that we will be having another Herrera bundle of joy. Every single one of my children have brought me immense joy, happiness & just a fulfillment that words can not describe. This baby has just been a surprise since day one, and I think I am still in awe over having another.
My Aunt Joyce keeps telling me, " This one will be extra special, Melissa. Each child is a gift, and the ones we don't plan, well, it is in God's plan, so they are special!"
I know this one has already brought Jose and I to a point of humbleness, that I never thought a baby could do. We have had so many people reach out and supply our needs.
So, yes, you can say I'm getting excited, but, I am also dealing with SO many emotions right now and trying to be the "do'er" that I am, trying to get everything under the sun done before I have this baby.
Lately, this pregnancy has been taking hold of me "by the balls" as people say.
My back, hips, groin all hurt 24/7. I am exhausted, and just have no energy unless I get a good nights sleep and wake up with it. But then it diminishes fairly quickly and I am looking for every opportunity to take a nap.
Well, being that Jose works & sometimes late, we just haven't had any time to just sit and spend with each other.
I'm not slacking on my "wifely duties" by any means. The house is clean, dinner is ready when he gets home, the kids are all taken care of, laundry done, etc.
BUT, the time that we would be able to have together has diminished.
He has really started to dive into his bible, studying the word, taking time to make a relationship with God a priority. Don't get me wrong, I support it 110%! I am blessed to be a wife of a man that is taking his relationship with the Lord higher, believe me, I know I am. This has been something I have prayed for for YEARS!
He is reading his bible and the book "The God Chasers" by Tommy Tenney every night before he goes to sleep. Tuesdays he goes to bible study, Wednesday he has made it a priority to go to prayer night, Thursdays he tries his hardest to make it to church and Fridays he goes to bible study again. I am ECSTATIC!
But, I can't make it to all of these things with him. I am getting to the point where I can barely eat my dinner at night & clean up, let alone do all that and go out until 8:30pm, get home and get the kids to bed.
Then yesterday I was just feeling...Waaaaa!
I miss my husband!
We both feel it when we need to spend time together! I think my kids can feel it too. Adriana was going through my wallet the other day and found a gift card that I have had in there for a little over a year to The Cheesecake Factory. She asked me, "Mom, why haven't you used this yet?" I told her, "Because we can't afford to go with all of you guys, that will barely cover mine & papa's meal."
She replied, "Well, why don't you & papa just go out?" Of course, being mama, I answered, "Because it wouldn't be fair to go out without you guys."
She didn't feel that way, she told me, "Mom, you guys should go."
Yeah, I think I agree with her, it's about time Jose went out just the two of us. Especially before the baby comes!
So, last night Jose went to bible study, came home at about 8:45pm. I was up waiting for him. He went into the kitchen to make himself something to eat. I told him, I just want to hold you. I miss you! So, he told me he would make his food and come up.
I got my book and headed upstairs to lay in bed and read. So much for him coming up and eating...
Him and Anthony got into a debate about soccer shoes and socks. Then it was on for about 30 mins...Then he was messing around with the kids.
Yeah, it's all cheesy that he's playing with the kids and taking time for them, but HELLO!
I stayed patient, while I laid in bed reading my book.
He finally came up, but picked up his book and bible and started reading.
I finished my chapter, while he was still reading. I couldn't keep my eyes open anymore. It was already after 10:30pm.
So, I laid down and tried to get comfortable.
He followed suit not much longer. We just laid there holding each others arms while we dozed off.
He had to work this morning, so he was up at the butt crack of dawn. Kissed me good-bye and went on his way.
I woke up at 6:30 and was just in a mood. Not a bad mood, just a "I miss my husband" mood.
So, I gave him a call at almost 7 am. He was sitting in his truck at work waiting for the rest of the crew to show up.
Luckily we were able to talk and express to each other how we feel. He is in the same situation, feeling the same way.
He knows that what he is doing is good, but he sees that he is leaving his wife behind. Not intentionally, but just caught up in the moment.
We will see what comes out of it. Hopefully we will make the time to go out, just the two of us and spend some quality time together. If we don't do it before the baby comes, it won't be for a while and that will make the situation worse.
Anyways, I will be back with an update, hopefully soon!
I have known this, but just haven't put it out.
Adriana was born Tuesday November 3, 1998. It was election day. I obviously didn't vote...LOL
I always said that she would be the first Female Hispanic President.
Then we were thinking about it and this next baby is going to be born on January 20, 2008 which is Inauguration Day.
I've got two "Senator Bound" babies.
Let's see what the future holds...
So, I am going to do a survey copied from my friend...
What did you do in 2008 that you have never done before?
Started Weight Watchers and putting 'Me' first
Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I don't make resolutions. Jose and I focus on goals as the year goes on.
Did anyone close to you give birth?
A few friends from MOTS gave birth, but no one 'close' to me.
Did anyone close to you die?
Yes, unfortunately we had 2 great losses in our church. One was a woman who was like a second mom to me. But I praise God that she is rejoicing with Him!
What countries did you visit?
The country of Herrera...LOL
What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008?
Organization, hands down. Oh and to stay "on track".
What dates from 2008 will stay etched on your memory? Why?
August 29th~I turned the big 3-0
December 26th~My baby turned 13
What was your biggest achievement?
Staying on track with my weight loss. I was doing really good! I weigh 6 lbs more today, than I did a year ago & I wasn't pregnant :-0
Having another successful Relay For Life team & raising over $1,000
I'm sure there's other, just can't think of them
Your biggest failure?
Procrastination & fear being allowed to control my life
Did you suffer injury or illness?
I think we all know about my illness'...LOL
What was the best thing you bought?
I can't think of anything great
Whose behavior merited celebration?
All of my children's. I think I have the best kids in the world and their behavior proves it.
My husband, his relationship with the Lord has really exploded. I am in awe with his changes!
Whose made you appalled and depressed?
That would be my own fault
Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate last year?
No, I've actually forgiven someone for past hurt. Never hated the person though.
What did you get really really excited about?
There has been many things that have excited me this year.
What song will always remind you of 2008?
Don't know, was there a song for 2008?
What do you wish you had done more of?
time management
What do you wish you'd done less of?
being on the computer
How did you spend Christmas?
at home with family
Did you fall in love in 2008?
I think I keep falling in love with the same man every year.
What was your favorite TV program?
Biggest Loser, The Apprentice, I don't watch too much t.v.
What was the best book you read?
Inside My Heart by Robin McGraw
What was your greatest musical discovery?
my iPod
What did you want and get?
I wanted a baby, but didn't expect to get one so soon
What did you want and not get?
More than you could read in a sitting
What did you do on your birthday?
Went to dinner at Steir N Stein with my Honey, Bits, Little, Gee, Sarah, Devin & Mom
What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Not going through the financial issues that we have gone through. It is all for a reason & I am praising God through it all!
How would you describe your fashion concept of 2008?
Workout Woman
What political issue stirred you the most?
I think this year was one heck of a battle, we won't debate it.
What kept you sane?
my husband, he always does
Who did you miss?
My Uncle Rodney & family I don't see enough of
Who was the best new person you met?
Monica & Noe, Mick & Janie, Denise & Ismael, Mario & Debbie
Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2008.
Trust Him in ALL things
Compared to this time last year, are you:
a) happier or sadder? Mixed on that
b) thinner or fatter? alot more pregnant...LOL
c) richer or poorer? Richer, in more ways the one.
OK, I am having two totally different emotions going on right now!
I am COMPLETELY frustrated!! Why you ask?
It's 1:42 am and I am still AWAKE! URGH!
I was laying in bed watching Dog The Bounty Hunter until 10, then flipped over to the news. My eyes were very heavy and I was exhausted! I have had a full week and it seems to be catching up to me.
Yeah, well, I turn the t.v. off and what happens? Anxiety, stress, restlessness and my brain all turn on at once.
I tossed and turned, prayed, counted, etc & no work until about 12am.
Finally I'm asleep, until 12:42...Dominic wakes up with a bad dream.
Jose got up with him, but he needed a mama's touch.
So, I crawl out of bed and go into his room, rub his back, head and butt and he's out.
Head back to bed and toss and turn until 1:20 am. I get up, and Jose is awake too. He can't get back to sleep.
I was done. Not only could I not sleep and shut my mind down, but now I have heartburn.
I told him, I'm going downstairs to have some Chamomile.
Here I sit, with my beloved laptop and a cup of Chamomile checking my email.
I open them up one by one and what do I see?
The following...
Hey Chick!From my dear friend, who I wish I had more time to get to know on the deeper level that I know her now, Kelly Bellamy
I saw your blog about the haves/needs/wants and have a question. Do you want a Nursing Cover that is gender neutral or do you take the stance that it doesn't matter? haha I know some mama's get the colors THEY like and others get it for the baby's sex.
I still have that one I made for Katie a while back, it's pink & brown though.
I could also make you one with just about any color.
Let me know.
even if your baby is big...these will fit for the first few weeks:
A message on Freecycle...
i have a brand new package of PREEMIE SWADDLERS (up to 6 lbs)
im in beaumont
Just for you!
Now choose just what you want at Target.com. Just for you!
$50.00
To: MELISSA HERRERA
From: TERESA WALLACE
THOUGHT YOU COULD PICK UP A FEW THINGS FOR YOU AND THE BABY. LOVE YOU GUYS, CHRIS, TERESA AND THE GIRLS
January 6th is Dia De Los Reyes aka Three Kings Day.
This isn't something that we normally celebrate, but it's something that Jose, when he was in his country did celebrate.
Having a mixed family, it has been hard to keep tradition with both my family as well as Jose's traditions.
When I married him (or even before) I swore I would try to incorporate his family traditions into our family.
Well, this is a holiday, that as Christians, we don't traditionally celebrate. It's more of a Catholic traditional celebration.
BUT, since Jose has Catholic roots and his family does celebrate this (they even have the HUGE parade and parties), we will be incorporating it into our day...
Just because I like to get the pan, Rosca de Reyes
(translated, the bread) :-)
Feliz Dia De Los Reyes y que Dios Te Vendiga!
Yesterday my nephew & his fiance came up to visit and wanted us to all GTG to play games and spend time together.
So after we got our house cleaned and done we headed over to James & Gail's house to play some games and hang out.
Well, when we got there James & Mark were drinking Yegger Bombs (Jagermeister & Energy Drink).
We all started playing spoons, and so much for that. James & Mark kinda got side tracked. They were stinken hilarious!!!
I went over and got on the computer to look something up for Mark, and ended up looking up a song for James.
He was CARACKING us up!!!!!!
Here is the song, it's Ram Jam~Black Betty
Gail video'd James dancing and singing to it (I will try to get a copy). I seriously was laughing so hard I was about to pee my pants. James is a nut when he's not drinking, but he was even funnier while he was drinking!
Our night was full of fun! We tried playing Pictionary and that didn't last. We all just kept getting distracted.
Jose, the kids and I finally left around 1:15am and got home. Put the kids to bed and Jose & I watched some of Gladiator.
We finally fell asleep around 2am. It was a great time though!!!
