A glimpse into my whirlwind

I have been an emotional boob lately!  Trying to keep everything going on straight while staying a float and my head above water.  So this is everything going on and I will break it down...

~Anthony's Senior Year Activities & Planning
~Jazzercise Training & Audition
~Relay For Life
~Jose's new adventure
~Bible Study
~Mom...That is an ENTIRE blog post for itself!
~My new job and endevour
~Life in general (Kids, Home, Church)

Anthony's senior year activities: He has Prom coming up, Senior Awards, Grad Night, Senior Trip, Senior Dinner and then Graduation (Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa).  This is all happening between now and June 4th.  I still need to get his pictures done, announcements done and I'm planning his graduation party.  I am super excited but then I have my moments I can't believe my baby is graduating.  I know, some people think I'm over dramatic or whatever but this is my baby!  I was 17 when I had him.  I have moments that I look at him and am in awe that he is MINE!  God blessed me with this kid.  There are moments I want to strangle him and smack the crud out of him so he can realize the dumb things he is doing.  But all in all he is a good kid.  I want to give him an amazing senior year and graduation party.  He deserves it!

Jazzercise: I received an email last night and started BAWLING!  I am truly in disbelief that I am doing this.  Yes, I've had my ups and downs with it.  But this past week I met and trained with Tana and Jamie.  The feedback and encouragement really helped.  I feel like I am going to do this!  No more trying, I've got this!  When I read the email, I sent Jamie a message to make sure she received it also.  Not to put Jamie on the spot but this meant a LOT to me!  This was our convo: 
Friday

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  3/28, 7:09pm
  

  Melissa Herrera
  

  
  

  
  

  I received an email from Holly and wanted to make sure you received it as well. Let me know. If you didn't I can forward it on.
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  3/28, 9:34pm
  

  Jamie Carrillo
  

  
  

  
  

  Yes I got it too!!! I'm excited.. We got this whoop whoop
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  3/28, 9:36pm
  

  Melissa Herrera
  

  
  

  
  

  I seriously started crying. I can't believe this is happening!
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  3/28, 9:38pm
  

  Jamie Carrillo
  

  
  

  
  

  I know!!!! We are going to kick butt!!! I'm so glad we get to do this together..
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  3/28, 9:42pm
  

  Melissa Herrera
  

  
  

  
  

  Me too! You have been a true inspiration to me! Now I'm crying again!
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  3/28, 9:46pm
  

  Jamie Carrillo
  

  
  

  
  

  Good tears I hope really Melissa I am really happy to have you there I was starting to think I was going to be by myself... I try to remember that when 2 or more are gathered together God will hear our prayers.. and Girl this is a test if faith!!!
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  3/28, 9:50pm
  

  Melissa Herrera
  

  
  

  
  

  They are tears of disbelief. Never believing I could ever be capable of something this amazing. I'm truly blessed to have you by my side also. You inspire me, push me and challenge me. It was rough last year when everyone dropped and I was alone. I felt defeated and beat. I'm not one to give up though and vowed to give it my all this year, no matter what! God provided an amazing partner in you and he is opening doors for us both. What doesn't kill us makes us Stronger!
• I was terrified about the money situation but God is opening doors. I guess this is my time. I'm terrified, excited, anxious, feeling of doubt at times. But I know, If God Is For Me Then WHO Can Be Against Me? Yes, it does pertain to Jazzercise too! So, to make an official announcement...June 13th is my OFFICIAL Audition Date!!! That is 9 days after Anthony's graduation. Too imagine us both making a HUGE step together is awesome!!

Relay For Life: WOW, LOTS GOING ON!!! I have a Bunco night scheduled, need to start planning the decor of my booth. Get everyone signed up and situated. T-Shirts ordered, raffle prizes, and the list goes on! As of right now, I'm pretty much doing this all on my own. I held a Jazzercise Benefit Class last week and we raised a little over $700! I was very excited about that!  

We will be next to AYSO this year, which I am excited about. I've taken myself out of the organization as a board member and haven't had too much connection with them for a few years. But with new people and some who are friends, I'm excited to see us come together and enjoy each other's company for Relay. It's always a special time for me!

Jose's New Adventure: He will be enrolling in school and getting his Contractor's License. We are both very excited. I believe this is the direction God has been leading Jose for a while. His heart has always been to own his own business, I guess God just had to allow us to learn some life lessons before getting to where we are and allowing us to start our own business. I truly can't wait until we have everything done and can say "We own our own business". BUT in the same hand it terrifies me with the responsibility of owning. I know I must trust God.

Bible Study: is going good. It has dwindled and I'm seeking God if this is where he wants me and wants me doing. I stopped for a few months to situate life. We just started back up and as excited as I am to get into the word and do this study, I'm questioning myself. It could be me. But I also want to be in the will of God. I don't want to do anything, especially a bible study, out of flesh. I want it to be God. I want to be led by His spirit. I want Him to use me. I'm really praying and seeking God. I have my next study I want to do and I'm really trying to allow Him to lead me. I guess we shall see after this study where He leads me.

Mom: well, she had her knee replacement surgery done on her right leg. She is in a convalescent hospital now recovering and doing physical therapy. I don't want to get too much into detail but if you are reading this, be in prayer! There are some big decisions my brother and I ultimately have to make. Again, I need God to show me which direction to go, what steps to take and what actions need to be done. Like I said, this can be an entire blog post dedicated to her. BUT there are some sensitive things that don't need to be out for everyone to see. Those who need to know, know.

My new job/en devour: HEE HEE! SO, I am super stoked and haven't told too many people because I am kind of taken back by the whole thing. BUUUUUTTT, sometime after Relay I will be head of Sales & Marketing for a local company. I don't want to put the name out there as of now, because I don't want to cross any lines with my new "boss". But I am UBBER STOKED to take on this new position. I have been praying and asking God to give me an avenue that I can start making good money (Pampered Chef is good, if I keep consistent. I've been having issues with keeping a consistent calendar). Well, a door opened up last year and I wasn't sure what was going to happen. I sat down with her in February and we discussed some details and the job in depth. I accepted the position but let her know I can't take it on until after Relay. It just takes too much out of me. She was/is ok with that. So after Relay we will be sitting down and transitioning me into my new position. Of course, I'm nervous about that also. Finding a daily routine, focusing time to my new position along with the rest of life, making sure I get everything else done that needs to be done, etc.  

Things were said while we were speaking that confirmed this is a path God has ordained and is taking me down. We both shared some things that confirmed God in this on both ends. It's going to be a change but once everything is situated and I'm in a routine it will all be a breeze that will eventually turn into some growing challenges. But it will be good!  

This is a job that is truly too good to be true. But with God, all things are possible. RIGHT!?

Life in general: Must I go into detail? Kids are doing good, it's just lots of work. Dominic and Adriana are both swimming. Dominic is doing amazing! A lot better than I had ever expected. He whined he didn't want to do it but he is loving it. Delayna is NON STOP as usual. She is learning a lot in school. It's good that she is going but my days are extremely hectic with drop offs and pick ups at all hours of the day. All of the older 3 are doing very well in school. My kids seriously amaze me! It amazes me that I am their Mama! It amazes me that they are simply amazing kids. Yes, they can be pains. Make dumb choices. Want to go out with their friends more than I like. But they are good kids. They have a bright future ahead of them!

Sweet babies

These two are so sweet together!  They are laying in bed watching Mistle-tones, eating gingerbread cookies.  Notice Delayna's legs over Dominic's, too sweet!   I'm sure facebook is over seeing me post all these pics soooooooo, back to my blog!

Oh, and while I'm here I might as well post the earlier pics.  Dee ride her bike up to meet Dom & Adi.  On the way home she have Dominic a ride on the back.

Jingle Buddy, day 3

This morning Delayna woke up looking all over for JB.  She finally found him in the kitchen by the coffee pot, in a cup, eating marshmallows and full of sugar.
Honestly, we weren't sure what he was doing.  So after a phone call to our Papa, he answered our question.  Looks as though JB thought he would help Papa make this coffee this morning and got caught off guard by Papa getting up so early.  Papa thanked him for trying to help and released him of his duties.  JB just stuck around watching Papa and eating marshmallows.

Jingle Buddy, day 2

Well JB thought it would be funny to draw on our family photos.  Not sure where he got his pranks from but I sure hope he straightens up!  He is making enough trouble for all four kids.  They all think it's hilarious, so I guess it's ok...as long as I don't have a huge mess to clean up!

30 Day of Thankfulness, Day 8

I'm so grateful for my little Stinky! He has been such a blessing in all of our lives. He is funny, rediculously intelligent, extremely loving, sweet as can be, a great big brother, a true friend, has a heart of gold. Loves his Star Wars, games, cartoons, movies, Captain Underpants & anything nerdy. He is teaching me daily a whole other side of this "mommy job". I love being around him, he truly is a joy! I love you my Stinky, forever and always! — with Dominic Herrera.

The silly side of my Stinky!  Wearing his sister's dress after not feeling good for a few days.

30 Days of Thankfulness, Day 1

Day 1~ I'm am BEYOND grateful to be blessed and have the privilege of being a stay at home mommy. With all my sick babies this week, I haven't had to worry or fret over one of them being home alone or with someone else caring for them. I get to treat them to yummy food being served on the dinner table that I know what is in it, who prepared it and that it's healthy. I am able to be at 90% of their games and be their #1 cheerleader. I am an alarm clock, cook, maid, waitress, teacher, nurse, handyman, security officer, photographer, counselor, chauffeur, event planner, personal ... I may not be anything to you but I am EVERYTHING to someone.

Halloween 2011

After many different plan changes...my brother, sister in law, my nephews (Mark, Dakota & Devin) and niece by law, Jess all came over.
We went out here in our housing track.  We had a blast!!!!  Devin normally isn't into it, but he had a great time.  Delayna loved every second of it and literally ran house to house.  She was sooooooo cute!
Jose took the big wagon out to pull the kids when they got tired.  But Ant & Jose ended up taking turns laying in it and chasing after kids scaring them.  It was hillarious!
Heres some pics...

My New Necklace

So this isn't the best picture, but I didn't even think of taking a pic until now.
This is my new necklace, it may not be anything grand looking, but it's the story behind it.
I picked up Dominic from school today and as we got out of the truck and go into the house he told me, "Mama, I had such a good day today, I was able to pick a prize from the prize box."
I replied, "you did?"
He said, "yup"
Then he held out his hand and said, "this is what I picked, it's a present for you." He opened his little hand and inside was this green necklace.
After thanking him and smothering him in hugs and kisses, I decided I would revolve my whole outfit for my show tonight to match my new necklace.
So I wore my green bracelet & earrings and my green apron.
When I got home from my party, he was in bed, but came running out with Devin and the first thing he asked me was,
"Mama, how did everyone at your party like your necklace!?!"
Isn't he the sweetest!?! He is my precious little boy!

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Last Titans Soccer Tournament

So, we are headed off to our last soccer Titans Team soccer tournament. I'm extremely emotional, thinking this is it for our team. I don't know where we'll go next, but we have LOTS to think about!
It's already been a crazy hectic day! It started yesterday when I attempted to get things done...But, I had some other things that I needed to tend to that were more important. Which I didn't get home from until 4pm. Once I got home I had to make dinner, feed everyone and get ready to head out to the Fusion bowling night (which I didn't get home from until after 12:30). Once I got home, I put Domi (who's getting sick) in bed & started getting everything I could done. I went to bed around 1am & laid there for who knows long. Set my alarm for 7:30. Woke up at 7:55 to a frozen phone, with no alarm working!
So I ran around like a crazed lunatic trying to get the house cleaned (because no one did it last night, while he was home alone, with no kids & nothing to do),.the remainder if the stuff packed, get beach stuff together (because someone decided at the last second that we'd go to the beach), shower Delayna & myself and get out.
Needless to say, we didn't get out of the house until 9:45 & we have to be in San Juan by 10:30.
Went & picked up Tyler & then someone decided we needed gas, because that too had to wait till morning, instead of before hand.
So we are driving as I start blogging & Dominic throws up....I'm really second guessing my day! Oh & now were stopping for Jose to pee.
Ugh & now Dominic is throwing up again!
Well, here's hoping to a better weekend :-/

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Pool Party @ Amber's House

Just on a side note, it cracks me up when someone says "pool party at 'so & so's house' because Ants soccer friends allways say "pool party at Marcies house!". Well Marcies is the hang out spot because his mom likes to keep an eye on them, but Marcie doesn't have a pool! LOL!
So anyway, today was the first pool party I've ever been to. Amber had an end of school year party. It was so much fun to get away from my house & relax, well maybe not relax, but hang out at the pool with the kiddos. She bbq'd and had chips, dip & fruit. It was so much fun & nice!
Amber has been such a blessing in my life! We are kindred spirits & have so much in common.
Anywhoot, I'll leave ya with some fun pics from the day.

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Sweetest Blessings

My babies are just being so sweet to each other, I just love it!

Anthony tripped outside and busted his arm all up, and Mama had to play Mama (I don't get many opportunities now that he's 15 & "too old").  Delayna saw that 'bobo' hurt his arm and she was all attentive to him.  Then Anthony went and sat down in the living room and she up to me and asked me if Ant could go outside with her.  I told her, go ask him to play outside.  So she went to Anty and said, "Bobo, a play side Me 'a You".  Awe, she's so cute.  He asked her, "you want me to go play outside with you?"  Of course she was telling him yes & he never did, but they were just too cute together.  She is her big bobo's baby sister for sure!

Then Ant was watching Domi play TS3 on the X-Box and he wanted to play with him.  He went to get the remote to 'help' him, but Dom my attitude child got all mad and was fighting with him.  But eventually, they were playing together.

Now Ant just came to me with Dee's head band and flower over his head and she's crying over it.  He tells me, "Mama, tell her I look so pretty."  

My Sweet Blessings.  There isn't a day that goes by that I am flabbergasted that God gave me such awesome babies!

Yay for LA!

We have been through the ringer since the beggining of december and we just had the icing put on the cake. ‹ will be in another blog post.
Anyhow, Jose and I decided it was time to take a trip with our babies and just get away from "reality" for a day. So we are heading LA!
We do this every so often, we'll pack up and head to the Guatemalan bakery, eat us some authentic Guatemalan food, buy us some pan, and take something new home that I can learn to cook for my babies. I love that we have something close enough to home that we can instill their Guatemalan traditions, heritage, whatever. It's important to me that my babies know where theycome from and some traditions.
So here we go...
I posted some pics of us driving. I will be taking pics while out there and share them with you.
Have a great day & know, God has it all under control!
~Melissa

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30 days of Thankfulness ~Day 22

Okay, so today I'm thankful for transportation (specifically my expedition) and once again my husband, kids, niece and nephew. That should cover for the 4 days I was away =)
My Honey got home early today. When he got here, he helped me clean the kitchen, went up and cleaned our bedroom and then we all went off on our adventures.
Jose and I took Anthony, Adriana, Sarah, Devin, Dominic & Delayna out to Target, Sports Chalet, Sports Authority, Sam's Club and Burlington.
I do have to admit, we do have the funnest time together! I'm so thankful I have my expedition to tote all of us around in too!
so that's it for now...

30 days of Thankfulness ~Day 15

yes, day 15 is TS3! Ant begged me to rent this from the redbox on Saturday night. So I did. What happened next was not what I expected!
We got home and I made pizza. He popped on the movie, grabbed his little brother and started singing and dancing to the opening of the movie...you know, "You got a friend in me."
Awwe what the hay...here's the video

We have watched it 3 times since renting it saturday night...Anthony has popped it in each time. I'm thankful for a movie that can bring my sweet boy out though all of that rough/tough guy stuff.
Not to mention, he cries EVERYTIME Andy gives Woody to the little girl at the end :'-(

30 days of Thankfulness ~Day 7

I just want to say a simple...
I am so thankful for my blessings! God has truly blessed me beyond measure! I have 4 awesome children that can drive me to insanity, but continually put a smile on my face and fill me with so much contentment.
I have a husband who is just awesome...He's already received his spot light.
I have a mom who loves me, supports me, and raised me to be a heck of a woman...even though we butt heads more than we get along.
I have great friends, women and people in my life.
Many talents that God has allowed me to use to bless his children with.
I can go on & on...but you get the point.

30 days of Thankfulness ~Day 5

Today's post is dedicated to my baby boy...Anthony Jose Herrera
As much as I'd like to strangle him lately, he's still my baby boy!
So, tonight we went to his Friday Night Football Game yh7ujiu7jmukm8uk,iink,b8iubvjubu, hyn nh nhngh gn nhgtb bgnjbnjnjum
And that's what I mean by wanting to strangle him, as that would be his doing...
Anywho, he truly makes me one proud Mama! Tonight's game he not only walked away with a 52-6 winning game, but he also made captain!!!!
He has really embarrassed his position in football and is really excelling in it. He is also working hard to keep his grades up. His coach has had him going to study hall everyday after school before he goes to pracitce.
His new interest is wrestling, but we will see what happens. His soccer friends are really wanting him to go and try out for the goalie position on the HS team. Which, we all know hands down, he kicks butt in that goal box. He has no fear and for a majority keep those balls out of the box.
Now about Anthony, my baby...
He is the sweetest big brother, he truly is. He loves his role as a big brother and knows that he has 3 little ones looking up to him. He's not the perfect kid, but he really isn't a bad kid, never has been. He loves his little brother and baby sister. And recently has been embracing Adriana. For some reason, those two have finally clicked! He even started training her for spring select. He wants her to get out there and kick butt!
I mentioned this before, but after every football game Delayna wants her Bobo. So I will take her down to him and he will call for her to come out to him. What a precious, precious memory they will both cherish as they grown older.
Dominic and him shared a room for a little over 2 years. When we moved into this new house, Domi got his own room. He was soooo sad and didn't want to sleep alone. But he's adjusted and got used to it. But there have been a few times that I will get up in the morning to wake him up and find him in Ant's room on the floor with his pillows & blankets. There have been about 2 times that I have gone in looking for him and couldn't find him. After searching the house, I found him tucked into bed with Ant, snuggled up next to him. Ant told me he went in there and said, "Bobo, I had a bad dweam, can I sweep wif you?" AWE, HOW SWEET! Ant just pulled the covers up and tucked his baby brother in next to him.
This boy melts my heart!
He has the greatest aspirations of becoming a professional football player and is very focused...just to keep him there.
He's a good kid with a huge heart! One day, I will be proud to announce this kid will be going on to the NFL!
Here's a photo of him goin up as captain for his game last night #33

Beach Trip 7.12.10

After being busy as ever these past few months, Jose had the day off and we decided to get the flock out of here! We took off and went to the beach. We found a perfect parking spot, not too far from the shore. It was empty where we went & enjoyed the day away from home, life, etc... (I even left my cell in the truck, so I wouldn't be tempted to text or facebook!) I really enjoyed myself and came home just in a different mood. Anyhoot, here's some pics (of course!)


My Honey Skin Boarding




Berry & I


My Pretty Girl


Delayna chasing the seagull

Honey, my other son & Ant


Bits made this sand creation. He was so excited, he asked me to take a picture. Then Little suggested putting it on Sprout. Which Bit's finished...Online dot com...LOL!


My sexy boy, getting so big & muscular


Papa & the babies