Thursday, May 27, 2010

Are we there yet Thursday's?!

This is also my Friday post. I will be off for a couple of days to enjoy my weekend with my son and my husband. Mississippi bound. Can't be more excited.


This week I have pulled strength from Lord knows where to get through and I am very happy with my week so far. I feel like I have accomplished a lot and have been very focused!

I love the air around me these days; POSTIVE, ENCOURAGING, and HAPPY! It's simple. You allow God in and don't let anything or anyone steal your joy! (That's not simple!?!!?) Oh but it is...it's a difficult task to achieve but when you get there it's simple. You'll wonder why you hadn’t found this peace and comfort before you analyze what was holding you back and attempt to not go back to that place.

Revelation 21:11 (English Standard Version) 11 Having the glory of God, its radiance like a most rare jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal.

On another note: I started Blogging almost 2 years ago, I started with a Personal Blog to vent and release what I was holding on to and after that period of seeking I was led to a Bible Study Blog for women. These days I love to Blog more about my Faith than about the crazy life I USED to lead. I am now almost fully devoted to this Blog, My Family Blog. It makes me most happy and fills those little crevasses of “mean girl” with my Faith filled girl. Don’t get me wrong I am human and at times need to vent like any other…and maybe on those days you’ll find me at my old Blog but no worries I will always be back! Where was I going with this? I plan to really tie in my Faith Blogs because it feels like in the last week or so I have been quoting scripture but maybe not really seeking the meaning behind it. I want to go back to that seeking and finding. I feel like this is the summer to do just that.

I hope you will follow me. This summer promises to be a good one…again…aside from last summer when at this point I was almost 6 months pregnant with my beautiful son.


I also hope you have the most WONDERFUL and Blessed weekend. If you are traveling be safe, buckle up and wear sunscreen! Remember to relax and have fun!

In the mean time I leave you with some more amazing pictures from Casey Ayala Photography of Houston. Can’t express how pleased I am with her work! As you will see for yourself:


 

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

~Praise and Worship Wednesday~

This is one of my absolute FAVORITE songs and this morning it was my reminder that I should do and be who I am, no matter what or how I feel.

Hope you like it. (Video is at the end)

And have a VERY Blessed day...

Album: My Paper Heart



Artist: Francesca Battistelli




At twenty years of age I'm still looking for a dream


A war's already waged for my destiny


But You've already won the battle


And You've got great plans for me


Though I can’t always see






(Chorus)


‘Cause I got a couple dents in my fender


Got a couple rips in my jeans


Try to fit the pieces together


But perfection is my enemy


On my own I'm so clumsy


But on Your shoulders I can see


I'm free to be me






When I was just a girl I thought I had it figured out


My life would turn out right, and I'd make it here somehow


But things don't always come that easy


And sometimes I would doubt






(Chorus)






And you’re free to be you






Sometimes I believe that I can do anything


Yet other times I think I've got nothing good to bring


But You look at my heart and You tell me


That I've got all You seek


And it’s easy to believe


Even though






(Chorus)

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

What happen to Monday?!

Well you could have sworn today was Monday, running late and all! But, finally settled in the office and thinking back on all the God given Love and Peace from today!

Yesterday, I was SO enthralled with my photo shoot by Casey Ayala Photography that I thought, "I will blog about this later." but NEVER did! Ha.

To say the least this week is promising to be busy and before we know it, the weekend will be here and Love will have emerged!


A quick update on my boys..more so Santi… waiting on some days to go by before I tell you all about my hubby. But Santiago! Oh boy…to say that his energy level is massive and that he NEVER stays put anymore is an understatement as Mrs. Ayala and her beautiful sister Katie found out this Sunday during our photo shoot!

My weekend was amazing and even though it didn’t turn out as planned…it turned out as HE planned.

Psalm 33:11 (New International Version)11 But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations.


Side Note:

The other night, I had insomnia and had a lingering question in my mind and have probably had it there for quite some time now. As it is most days for me, I think, think and think and then write but sometimes those thoughts don’t make it here until a later date and very Godly so. Casey, my beautiful Bestie, wrote her photography Blog and made this question part of her Blog which in return was my queue from God to “insert Blog here”, ha, ha.

Romans 8:28 (New International Version) More Than Conquerors 28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

So again, in this night of insomnia, which mind you I have NOT had since High School, I did something that I have also not done in a while….wrote in my journal. I have shelves and shelves of journals but since Blogging found me I have not had a need to actually sit down and hand write something. But, that night, I thought…. "I can do this laying here in bed next to Santi.", cause I don’t have Laptop, I think it would be the end of me, ha, so I did.

The Thought about the Future:

Jeremiah 29:11 (New International Version)11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

In my younger years, I will admit, I wanted a HUGE house, a Corvette and to be an ambitious career driven Doctor!

1 Corinthians 13:11 (New International Version)11 When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me.

But, then life started to happen and I had to go to school, get a job and deal with a lot of family problems. During this time in my life, when I had a new job interview every other minute, my most feared and dreaded question was always “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” I guess because in my mind no matter what my “plans” are or where I WOULD like to see myself in 5 years, to me, the ONLY one who knows where I will be is God! And, he had proven that to me in the first 5 years after High School, when I was broke, broken and scared. I really didn't know where I would be despite all the dreams I had.

Jeremiah 1:5 (New International Version)5 "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."

Don’t get me wrong, I do “have plans”, who doesn’t have goals and things they wish to accomplish, but I no longer voice them because in the end, we don’t really make those plans, He does. We make our own choices and decisions but we really have no control over what will happen in this life, again ONLY God does. I know what I have done in the last 5 years; I graduated college, got married and had a baby. All in “plans” but never really thought about it much just did it.

Matthew 6:24 (New International Version) 24 "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.

In the next 5 years, I pray and hope that my husband can graduate from UH, obtain his degree and purse his career of choice. I pray that I can go back to school one day and obtain my Masters, I also pray that in those 5 years and beyond my family finds peace and that we are healthy and safe, beginning with our youngest, Santiago and Olin. I pray that God brings me happiness and love the way He has in the last 5 years! I also pray that we can afford to show my son "the world" and that God can continue to guide us to be better parents, spouses, siblings, children, employees and friends. I also pray that in the next 5 years God will Bless us with another beautiful baby to complete our little family. As for the materialistic and career choice, if home is happy and loving everything else should fall into place.

Philippians 4:6 (New International Version) 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

So, with that in mind I’ve never really made up an answer or rather I have “made up” answers. Am I wrong? What’s your take on it? Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Maybe if the question was asked with “God willing” at the beginning I would feel different?!

Saturday, May 22, 2010

OMG..ON A SATURDAY!

I had a very busy day.....

First observation. 

Today was a BEAUTIFUL day!!!!!!

Then, as you may recall...my mom is a housekeeper, well so are my Aunts, the Blessing in that is that when you ask for help there are LOTS of very willing and able housekeepers available and having them in my life is simply a Blessing. especially with my little busy body son! Who is staring at me from the door way as I write. 

With that said. I woke up at 7:30am, by 8:30am my bed was made. THAT IS AMAZING. I love it. I grew up with the thought that if you wake up and make your bed it makes your body realize that your day has started and by having completely made your bed you've made your first accomplishment of the day! So for years I couldn't leave my house without making the bed...even when my husband was still in it! Haha. As the years have gone by, life and an 8 month have happened and well these days my bed is NEVER made! The way we leave it in the morning when we wake up is what we go back to sleep in, with the exception of the days when I change my sheet which is usually at night anyway so forget it...we NEVER make our bed! Therefore my bed was made at 8:30 am and at that time I made my way out the door to my morning errands. 

While I was out I realized that the McDonald's across the street from my house was full. And again I thought wow, it's been YEARS since I physically go inside a McDonald's to have a meal, let alone breakfast. That is one place that I remember our VERY traditional Mexican parents taking us for breakfast, when we were having barbacoa and consome. And thinking about it brought a smile to face. I loved that. 

I then came back home and FINALLY my house is clean...now that garage must be dealt with. Hmmmm. No willing and able anybodies to get that done...oh well. I will have a hard task this week. 

I took Santiago to a public pool for the first time today and HE LOVED IT. I didn't expect anything less. Looking forward to more visits there and then the BEACH! I love the BEACH, or Le Beach as my niece would suggest. 

In all I had a VERY productive day and enjoyed and very beautifully sunny day outdoors with my son, my sister and my nephew. It was fun! This is going to be a fun Summer...next CHUCK-E-CHEESE! We just have to do it! 

Well now to a very nice evening with the girls, playing with Santi and watching movies! :D

Hope everyone had a GREAT DAY and God Bless!


Santiago in ACTION!

Friday, May 21, 2010

T.GOD.I.F!!

Friday Frenzy (Warning: It's a long one) :


First OFF, THANK GOD, NO REALLY, THANK GOD that today is Friday! I have been thinking about a lot and feel ready and armed with Grace to face WHATEVER may come this summer. I have confidence but above all I have Faith!

With that said, I have so much to be Thankful for, to pray for and to look forward for.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 (The Message) 16-18Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus to live.

My dear friend Casey needs a lot of prayer; one of her dear friends is battling Cancer. Her name is Angela, she is a very young girl and VERY loved, and needs your help [ Team Angela ]. Please Pray for her.

Romans 14:19 (New American Standard Bible) 19 So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another.

I read a blog this morning that made me just sigh a HUGE sigh of relief [Faith Barista ]. This was my comment to her and for now I will leave you with this but am thinking of a blog to expand:

“Bonnie. First off, I love your Blogs! About this one...my husband is always telling me to "relax", but I can't. I am always trying to find meaning and purpose in ALL that I do! And, I spend days thinking...is this it...is this it... is this it... like a child. But, when I relax, or simply have fun, I hear Him. And, His answers to my "is this it" question are always soooo meaningful and just AMAZING. These days my way of having fun is sitting around, relaxing, laughing and playing with my 8 month old son, and every time... I hear Him, "YES, THIS IS IT!" And, at that moment...I feel peace and reassurance that yes "MY LIFE IS ALREADY HIS WILL". Thank You so much for sharing your stories, I love them and have identified with many!”

There is just this TRUST that has to happen. We have to trust in Him, that HE KNOWS what he wants for US! He created US, why wouldn’t He know what He wants for us. Why can’t we simply trust? What is my problem with fully LETTING GO AND LETTING GOD? Why do I feel like I have to control it all? When clearly He is in control and if to this point my life has been God sent, why can’t I trust Him MORE especially at this time in my life? As you can see, TRUST is the key word here and TRUST is what I should have.

I KNOW THIS IS HARD BUT consider this next excerpt from my Daily Dose Devotional:

[ HEAR AND OBEY = CHANGE



"After all this, God tested Abraham. God said, "Abraham!" "Take your dear son Isaac whom you love and go to the land of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains that I'll point out to you." Abraham got up early in the morning… He set out for the place God had directed him. Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering and gave it to Isaac his son to carry. They arrived at the place to which God had directed him. Abraham built an altar. He laid out the wood. Then he tied up Isaac and laid him on the wood. Abraham reached out and took the knife to kill his son. Just then an angel of God called to him out of Heaven, "Abraham! Abraham!" "Don't lay a hand on that boy! Don't touch him! Now I know how fearlessly you fear God; you didn't hesitate to place your son, your dear son, on the altar for me." Abraham looked up. He saw a ram caught by its horns in the thicket. Abraham took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering instead of his son. The angel of God spoke from Heaven a second time to Abraham: "I swear—God's sure word!—because you have gone through with this, and have not refused to give me your son, your dear, dear son, I'll bless you—oh, how I'll bless you! And I'll make sure that your children flourish—like stars in the sky! like sand on the beaches! And your descendants will defeat their enemies. All nations on Earth will find themselves blessed through your descendants because you obeyed me." ~ Genesis 22: 1-3, 6, 9-10, 11-13, 15-18

God’s ways and thoughts are higher than ours. We know of one, two, perhaps three ways to achieve what we believe God has asked us to do on the earth (our destiny). God, however, is not stuck in a particular way to achieve our destiny nor should we be. The most important thing we can do as followers of Jesus is learn to hear the voice of God. Every Word from the mouth of God is life-giving and life-changing. It is imperative we hear Him when He speaks and not be afraid to change direction when He directs we do so. Our lives and the lives of those around us depend on it. God bless you!]

So many before us have sacrificed so much for us and the least we can do is hear, obey and in return change! Mary lost her son and in the most cruel way, for us… Why is that this is acceptable but we can't learn to sacrifice little things in our lives? Again, Trust. Just so much to think about…
John 19: 25 Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, "Dear woman, here is your son," 27and to the disciple, "Here is your mother."


PLEASE FEEL FREE TO COMMENT, I WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU!

Side Note: I have so much to do this afternoon and will not be home until late so I had to find an alternate babysitter to my Mother-In-Law, just because I don’t want to abuse. So, Santiago is out and about today experiencing something that as I child I experienced. My Momma is a housekeeper and has been for the last almost 30 years, along the way she had a couple of breaks acting as my Father’s assistant in his contracting business or simply staying at home with us but in the end she always goes back to housekeeping. She is great and has earned much love from her clients. Some she keeps for years and other she just comes and goes. When I was a child my mom was new to this country and had really no one to watch us, so we had to go with her to work. Thankfully my Mother found a loving family who completely understood her needs and accepted her with me. So, I used to ride buses from the North side of Houston into the very rich River Oaks area in Houston. My mom remembers having to ride the bus and waiting at the bus stop in the Houston summer heat, in Spring rain showers or Fall’s cold weather with me an almost 3 year old. She remembers having to haul me around and walking almost 8 blocks to get from her bus stop to the house where she worked. She would arrive sit me at big round “breakfast table” in the Kitchen. [How do I remember, I continued going to that same spot years later…and so did my siblings.] I would be fed, read to and entertained by the home owners Mr. and Mrs. Ward a wealthy but humble church going couple with 4 children and 6 grandchildren of their own. Mr. and Mrs. Ward are no longer with us. They were incredibly smart people one a Chemist and Physics major the other an English and Math major both with incredible hearts, I don’t think you can find many of these kind of giving and compassionate people anymore. I have nothing but the best memories of growing up in this environment. Mr. and Mrs. Ward were the guardian angels of our family for MANY, many years. They went through many milestones and accomplishments with us, always following us as if we were part of the family. The years have come and gone and things have changed. My mom was even pregnant with my sister at the same time that Mrs. Ward’s oldest daughter was pregnant with her 3rd son and my mom remembers being called to lunch for two by Mrs. Ward the two were, my mom and Mrs. Wards daughter. Mrs. Ward would tell my mom that she should sit and have lunch because her baby needed the rest and nutrition, that’s probably why my sister was a healthy almost 8 pounder and now….NEVER skips a meal. HA. Mr. and Mrs. Ward were people in a class of their own and like many things in our lives they were God sent. So, today Santiago is at work with my mom, who manages to find these types of people who can Bless her with flexibility and allow her to come into their homes, this case a dance studio and do her job with Santiago right next to her. Funny that this came up…because just yesterday I was discussing job flexibility with an Aunt, and how Blessed she is to have it. And today… my mom and Santiago are experiencing it. I love that, and I Thank God for that!

PHEW~ Loooong and emotional day as you can see.

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Are we there yet Thursdays?! (Day 4)

“Gracias a Dios”:

I woke up this morning with one word on my mind, EXHAUSTED. All I could think was tired, stressed, weary and not sure if I can make it…BUT I pulled it all together, made it out the door and to work. I am here safe, early or on time, and ready to get things done. And now ALL I can think is: “THANKS BE TO GOD, GLORY BE TO HIM!” “Gracias a Dios!” Without my morning prayers, my mid-day prayer, my afternoon prayers and my late night prayers….I would not be here. Without HIM, I would not make it…feel relieved and pain free. Without GOD, I would not make my day whole! I need Him every day, every minute, I see that NOW more than ever. If I have EVER needed Him, I need Him now! I Thank God for the opportunity given to Ricardo. I Thank God for my beautiful baby’s health and his smile and his whole little bitty being. I Thank God for Blessing me with a job to come to every morning which will help me provide for my family. I Thank God TODAY, RIGHT NOW more than ever for my FAMILY. I Thank God for my sister who texted me last night, my sister in law who eased the paranoia, my mother in law who quickly came to the door and grabbed Santi so I could be off to work, my father in law who came out the other night to see about the gas leak, to the Ramirez sisters, Erica and Danielle, for keeping me company and helping me with Santi the other night. I Thank God for having such Godly friends like Casey, who do the unthinkable in God’s name and for his Glory. THANK YOU GOD!

1 Corinthians 13:2 (The Message)

2If I speak God's Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and if I have faith that says to a mountain, "Jump," and it jumps, but I don't love, I'm nothing.

From my Daily Dose of Wisdom devotional:

[TO GOD BE THE GLORY

“I am the Lord; that is My name! And My glory I will not give to another…”

Isaiah 42:8

You have to be careful to give credit where credit is due. People are so quick to pat themselves on the back and tell others how their expertise, education or organizational skills brought about a successful conclusion to a project. I Corinthians 13:2 says that you are nothing (a useless nobody) without His love, glory and favor. From a parking space near the front, to opening the fifth branch of your billion-dollar business, every single good thing you experience is due to God showing His unlimited love in your life. Remember to always thank Him first and when speaking to others, give Him the credit and glory.]

This is what helped me remember that GOD is who we should give Thanks to and Glorify before man! I love it! And, I am also Thankful for my Grandmother's, they both taught me the importance of saying "Gracias a Dios" when I was younger and had no direction, these days I realize that direction is God y Gracias A DIOS!

My week has been….hmmm…different. I can’t wait to see what the rest of the summer brings me! As for the weekend we plan to have FUN and just relax! Pool Saturday and Photo Shoot Sunday….fingers crossed for weather to cooperate on both counts!

Side note: I am not sure if Santiago has realized the difference but he waves "Good-Bye" every morning on our way to his Grandma’s house…hmmmm. Wonder. Excited to see what happens next weekend… hmmmm.

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

~Praise and Worship Wednesdays~ (Day 3)

Count your Blessings:


I am constantly reminded that instead of complaining and thinking that I am lacking to remember that I am more than Blessed. With these Blessings I am also reminded that sometimes God tell us “NO” and that sometimes there is an ABUNDANT “YES” to follow.

As a Wife:

This week I am fully reminded of being a [Proverbs 31 Wife] being a trustworthy and supportive wife.

Proverbs 31: 11 Her husband can trust her, and she will greatly enrich his life.

My husband aside from being the provider in our home, is also the organizer, more importantly the “BILL” organizer. I come home, clean and take care of the baby. He comes home, cooks and does bills. And though at times I complain that something is lacking, it’s when he is gone that I realize, yes he really does do a good job. I hate myself then cause I have been a nag-y wife, completely unfair to him. But, I am being honest and accept that he is the best at what and all that he does! I thank GOD for him and his skills and now that he is busy with his Internship. I don’t want to be a bother, I don’t want to hinder him and I don’t want to be the cause of him NOT focusing on what he NEEDS to be doing right now. This is his time to shine and move forward and for that I want to be supportive. So, I am reminded, that my husband CAN trust me and that I want to GREATLY enrich his life! Always.

Proverbs 31: 25 She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.

Part of being supportive is to have inner as well as outer strength and dignity, above all dignity while your husband is not present. I like to think that the way I carry myself in person is the exact way that I carry myself online. Always being mindful of those around me BUT more importantly mindful of my husband and my son, always respecting them and never producing any type of situation that will bring them shame. I hope this is true. I pray that it is. As for laughing without fear of the future, just as my husband trusts me, I trust him and know that he will never lead us to a place where we are not together in God or where we are forced to face struggle, because we struggle already added stress is not needed.

Proverbs 31: 26 When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness.

I try. I hope it's true. I am sure I have many a critics who can say otherwise, but I am me and God has directed me.

Proverbs 31: 27 She carefully watches everything in her household and suffers nothing from laziness.

Again, I try and do my best to be a productive Wife and Mother.

As a Mother:

Knowing that most everyone these days is simply busy and has a full life even when they stay at home, I thought Santiago would go to a daycare. I quickly convinced myself that he would benefit from this type of environment because he could “meet” other babies and “learn” new things daily. But, that idea soon faded because the money just wasn’t there. The 8 almost 10 week leave came and went faster than expected and we were faced with having to figure out what to do. I honestly didn’t know who would be able to watch him without it being a problem with their, own family obligations. Well, when we presented the situation to my Mother-in-Law who due to serious back problems is a stay at home wife, she offered to take care of Santiago, despite her obligations and back pains! I knew that soon carrying my Chunk would not be an easy task and honestly was scared to ask her or anyone for that matter. I just don’t like feeling like we always ask others for too much and I dislike being a burden and God forbid for my son to be a burden. But, THANKFULLY, even before we asked, she offered. I loved that. That took a HUGE load off of us. We were quickly relieved! Now Santiago has a perfect place to not only “meet” his family but bond with them as well and “learn” about family and more importantly about Love. This new situation promises to be a good one, Ricardo’s mom is at home and at times feels sick but I like to think that Santiago lifts her spirits and gives her a Blessed purpose and reason to dismiss her back aches even if it’s for 8 hours a day, the same way he does for me. In return we are Blessed with a safe and home like environment for Santiago to be cared for surrounded by people who genuinely love him.

Proverbs 17:6 (New Living Translation) 6 Grandchildren are the crowning glory of the aged, parents are the pride of their children.

As a Sister/Friend/Daughter/Employee:

I can’t express how much I appreciate the support that everyone is giving me. I don’t think people realize that simple acts or words result in immense support. People like my Sister Jess and Sister-in-law Ale, who just by showing LOVE to my son when they are around him give me a HUGE sense of support. There are many people who give support in many ways, knowing that someone loves your son and that he is wanted and accepted is something that can easily be taken for granted. Children are disregarded, abused and hurt every day, but to know that there are people in his life who would defend him at any cost allows me to feel at ease.

Deuteronomy 11:27 (New Living Translation) 27 You will be blessed if you obey the commands of the Lord your God that I am giving you today.

Ephesians 4: 32 (New Living Translation) 32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.

My friends, those of you like Casey and Yvonne, who know me and everything that is going on right now, the emotions the struggles, who I know are there for me, even if we don’t see each other every day or talk on the phone or even email at times, but to know that you are there for me, is a GREAT feeling of support. We just know. Sharing with them via email even if there is no answer, through my Blog cause I KNOW they read it [Hahahaha.], and just knowing that if I have a total melt down at 2 am I can cry into their voicemails [They should answer within 48 hours, right?! Hahaha. Smiles worriedly. Haha.]. Regardless of if they answer, write back or comment, I know them, they are my dear sisters in Christ and they are sure to be there for me as I am always there for them. Always. Even if it's at distance, I never expect for anyone to totally drop what they are doing for me..it's almost impossible these days...and they both have little ones to care for just like me and I know that if I can't drop it all for them, they will understand me. They will. They do.

Proverbs 18:24 (New International Version) A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Proverbs 17:17 (New International Version) A friend loves at all times, And a brother is born for adversity.

What can I say about my own Mother; who would walk on fire for me, my siblings and her grandchildren, Olin and Santiago. Her concerns, her always checking on us, her rides to work, her bathing Santiago even though she’s tired but because I’m tired, her constant out pour of Love and Support is IMMENSE! This Life, My Life, would be so hard to deal with and manage without her. She is always there on the sidelines waiting to be tagged in! I love her.

Psalm 139:13 (New Living Translation) You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother's womb.

Colossians 3:20 (New Living Translation) 20 Children, always obey your parents, for this pleases the Lord.

I often complain about “work”, who doesn’t? But, to sit back and analyze it, I have the perfect job and work environment. It’s a small office of 4 people. In the end we have created a family. My job is very flexible and my Director very understanding. The women that I work with are also a bit of the above; wives, daughters, friends, employees, moms therefore we all try to be supportive, encouraging, motivating and uplifting. The office environment that we have created is a perfect one to share and be involved in each other’s lives. In the past I have made great and wonderful lasting friendships through my jobs but I have never had an entire department on my side and THAT makes a huge difference in situations like mine!

I AM JUST TOTALLY BLESSED at this point in my life and God is working on me inside and out.

Luke 6:31 (New International Version) 31Do to others as you would have them do to you.

2 Corinthians 5:9 (The Message) Cheerfully pleasing God is the main thing, and that's what we aim to do, regardless of our conditions.

Side Note:
I am praying that we can see Ricardo in 2 weekends!!! Please pray for us. It will be a quick Memorial Day weekend trip but I can't wait to see him and I know he can't wait to see us...It will be AWESOME to see Santiago’s reaction! The last 2 days have been different but we, I , am getting adjusted and starting my own little routine. This is definitely a journey...a ride and an amazing experience. I have never been on my own this way... my husband truly is my rock!

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Fatty Boy Tuesdays: (Day 2)

Santiago Updates:  Month 8 (May 16, 2010)

Emotions:

This month was the March of Dimes, to learn of how many children die at birth or soon after is heart breaking. I have determined to stay focused and become more involved. Not just for my son’s sake but for other people’s children as well. I also become interested in researching Autism, which is more prevalent in boys than girls, one of every 70 boys is diagnosed yearly in the US. Having a son, a nephew and my husband’s baby cousin all born within months of each other makes me worry and become concerned as to what we can do to be aware and open to what may or may not happen. Regardless of the closeness of this disorder I plan to make some change and gain knowledge. [Autism Speaks]

This month has just been very hectic for our home, a lot of change and a lot that Santiago will have experience ALL before the age of 1. It’s really exciting to see him gain wisdom as he waves Good-bye, knows that’s he NOT suppose to be doing something and still does it, and even vocalizes now MA-MA, NE-NE, NO-NO. Not sure that he really knows that I am the MA-MA, he is the NE-NE, and that NO-NO means NO-NO, HA. Either way he is really in my head learning more than he should and keeping up with the best of them. He loves PEOPLE, he LOVES girls, and he LOVES his cousin Olin! He smiles and gets really excited at first sight, he knows that there is another baby in the house not sure how much he knows that this other baby is just as important as him but he loves him! He LOVES taking baths and he loves songs and stories. He has a love/hate relationship with his almost life size Elmo. Who just this weekend scared the day light out of him and I am not sure how long it will take for them to reconcile. He is starting to feel some separation anxiety but mostly once he has been at his Grandma’s all day and catches a glimpse of me when I come to pick him up. Other than that, today is Day 2 of dropping him off at his Grandmother’s house early and once we get there and he sees his Grandparents…he forgets I exist! It’s when I come back to pick him up that he wishes we were attached at this hip! He loves his Aunts and Uncles, my husband’s cousins, who he sees almost on a daily basis, like Erica, Danielle and Eric, and although he doesn’t see him often he LOVES his Tio Pepe! This month seems like it has been a long one, I am sure so much more has happened but at this point it’s in our memories as moment of pure joy and excitement and we cannot be MORE BLESSED than we are today! The Lord has definitely dropped a HUGE Joy Bomb (Toby Mac fans, you know what I mean!) in our lives! We are Blessed and happy, our little family of 3!!

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do,
and he will show you which path to take." Proverbs 3:5-6 New Living Translation

Highlights:

• Santiago’s two lower front teeth came through.
• He attended his first sporting event… not professional but his Auntie’s all women’s football league first football game in Houston!
• He now crawls, only in soft areas, NOT our living room, we have hard tile floors!
• He is pulling himself up and standing mostly in his playpen and crib, soon I think he will learn to climb out!
• He is gaining some self confidence and takes very uneasy steps, no real walking yet but soon I hope.
• His is vocalizing now, “saying” things like MA-MA, NO-NO, NE-NE and agua.
• He LOVES to play with his Grandparents.
• He is VERY spoiled by EVERYONE.
• He is very, very good at sleeping at night now, pretty much through the night, out at 10pm up at 6:30am.

Discoveries:

• That he looooves his banana puffs!
• That he LOVES girls, he even pretend coughed in church to get a girl to notice him…I know. Trouble!
• That he loves food, he will taste EVERYTHING once and pretty much likes it all. We are hoping he will be a HUGE Veggie and Fruit eater, because we are starting to learn the problems of kids eating un-healthy food, but it will start at home.
• Everyday holds and new and exciting discovery for him, he knows that there are no limits and loves to explore!
• He has discovered that opening cabinets and pulling chairs is “fun”.
• He also loves his Dad. Everything his dad does amazes him and HE can do NO wrong!

Challenges:

Mommy-

• Fears of my child being harmed.

• Fears of my child being sick or diagnosed with some type of illness.

• Fears of SIDS.

[But, God is with us and He will only allows us to experience what He knows we can handle, and it’s always better to be informed and know that things do happen and that at times you cannot be there to prevent them BUT the more you know and are ready for every situation the better. BUT I know GOD will NOT leave us or forsake us!]

"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" Matthew 6:25-27 New International Version


Baby-

• Separation Anxiety

• Not getting his way and throwing fits

• Hitting

• Being bored

• Having to wake up early to be taken to his place of daily care, his GranMa’s house

• Being easily scared by new objects, such as stuffed animals and toys that move; i.e. Elmo. Ha.


Height: 26 inches (Same as before, until next Dr’s visit)

Weight: 21 lbs. (Same as before, until next Dr’s visit)

Next doctor’s visit: June for his NINE MONTH check up.

What to look forward to:

• We still have a pending Photo Shoot so I can’t wait to compare photos from when he was 6 weeks to now.

• His Baptism.

• His first time on an AIRPLANE!

• Visiting his Daddy at his Internship site.

• His first Birthday!!! Only 4 months away.

"A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world." John 16:21 (NIV)











Ricardo Updates:

Ricardo is VERY excited and already on his first day of learning, absorbing and retaining. He is and has been in good spirits after a rough first day..we all have bad days we can't allow the enemy to steal our joy and I pray that Ricardo can see that! I have been lifting him up in prayer since before he left and pray that he continues to rely on God for his support and not on man.

"Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory." Colossians 3: 1-4 (Today’s NIV)  

Many GREAT things are going to happen because he has been patient and understanding! He is a GREAT man and I love him SO much!
He is a very strong and focused person. He doesn't lose sight of his purpose. And he is a Godly Father and Husband. I LOVE HIM.




Job 42:2 (New Living Translation) 2 “I know that you can do anything, and no one can stop you.

Monday, May 17, 2010

NOT Again Monday! (Day 1)




This is a Monday...that came to fast...
 
A Monday that maybe deeeep down inside I wish NEVER came?

But then what, Ricardo wouldn't have started to find HOPE and see NEW DREAMS come alive.

Today he left, to create new memories, new experiences and gain new knowledge and wisdom. I have always known...Que Dios hace todo por alguna razon... God does EVERYTHING for a reason.

Ricardo has been in school for 10 years now...NEVER loosing sight of the big picture... a future for his family, in this instance him, myself and Santiago. Ricardo has always been a big dreamer AND quickly caught on to what God had in store for him. He admits that before he met me though, BRAG A BIT, HAHA, he never really knew where those dreams would take him. This day provides that direction and distance. My husband has always thought of bigger and better ways to provide for his future family, when we were dating we dreamed of days like this...where Daddy would go away for a business trip and baby and I would see him off. Of course the dream is only half way complete but on its way none the less.

I hope that Ricardo's family can see Ricardo as a great inspiration, to want to be more and do more, NO MATTER WHAT SET BACK YOU MAY HAVE. I see him as a wonderful provider who is always seeking new adventures for us and never forgetting that God is in control of who we will become. I can't stop saying how PROUD I am of Ricardo and how much I hope Santiago can follow in his footsteps to being a great man, educated and filled with Faith! My husband may not like that I share as much as I do...or the idea that I often wear my heart on my sleeve and how naive I can be at believing and seeing the good in all and everyone..But he forgets that I learned it from him!

Today I lift him up in prayer and PRAY to God that his peers, his family and his friends can see him for the imperfect human that he is but always remember that he is the PERFECT Husband, Father and Provider to his little family! We love him...will miss him...and look forward to all his phone calls telling us what, who, where, when... if you know my husband he LOVES to talk...and in return..I love to write... this is going to be THE Summer of ALL Summers...well aside from last years... when I was months away from giving birth to that rambunctious chub-chunk of a son of mine!

I have some great pictures from our day yesterday... but forgot to load then on my flash drive...will get them on here tonight...

Aside from all the pride, Hope and Faith in my heart...I did fight back tears this morning as I dropped Santiago off at his Grandmother’s house....He waved GOOD-BYE to his Daddy from the door of our house until 10 minutes later at the door of his Grandmother’s house....

I heard something on the radio this morning and I loved it...."We don't remember things but we do remember experiences." That couldn't be more true for us this Summer.

And, since Friday...I have done nothing but pray over my husband and remind myself that She is watching over him... She has been there for me MANY a times and I FIRMLY BELIEVE IN HER AS A LOVING MOTHER TO ALL:





Friday, May 14, 2010

Is it Really Friday!?!? THANK GOD!


Dear Blog Reader! I have no idea where to start! HAHA. I have had a long and crazy week... the countdown is on and I have SO much MORE to do this weekend.


They say that after the storm comes the calm...well I am smack dab in the middle of a hurricane/tornado/earthquake! Be back when it's over..Ha.



In the mean time. I am trying to evolve my Blog and find true balance in myself.

Being a Godly Wife and Mother is my priority.

Being a hardworking employee and dedicated Daughter and Sister is difficult but obtainable.

I really want others to follow my Blog sooo please feel free to share! And you can follow and not have a Blog... I want to be able to have people sign up for an email update....trying to figure it all out!!!!

Be back sooooon!

Have a BLESSED and Wonderful Weekend!!!!!!!!

I made this on Mother's Day...me at 2 months preggers, then 8months and Sanitago at almost 8 MONTHS!

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Updates on Tuesday:

Since I have an 8 month newsletter coming up for Santiago..I will wait to update you on him....

And, since I am now at the 6 day count down for Ricardo to leave for his Internship...I will wait to update you on him as well...

Instead another topic...one that I love ♥ ... because I am one...

Women:

I know my Blogs had been lacking order and consistency...I was "seeking" and in a bit of an emotional turmoil due to an illness in my family. My dear Aunt Lola in Detroit. Love You Tia.

Please keep her in your prayers...she is an awesome Woman of Faith.

I started Blogging in 2008, when I got a new job during the 2008 Presidential election. For those of you who don’t know me; I went from a 7 year job at Texas Children’s Hospital to graduating college and thinking that I wanted a "change", I moved on to be a “Case Worker” for the then Worksource now Workforce Solutions, after a much draining 2 years I again “thought” I needed change, geeeshhh, undecisive 20-something woman without kids, Ha. So I ended up taking a “Community” job with the county, which is where I am now, smile. A lot of “change” was obviously happening, in my idea of what I wanted my “career” to be, my personal life as far as wanting a family and in my heart with God.

Taking on a job that I knew would be very interesting and well, career changing to say the least, going from the high pace and over populated hospital and case worker setting to the very demure and “posh”, “truly corporate desk job” in a government office, that quickly faded and I soon realized I needed an outlet to express, to think and to just let others know. I was quickly inspired by a sarcastically witty and just down to the ground REAL Working Mommy Blogger. Because in the end…we all work even if it’s at home with our children all day or both home and an outside job. Shortly after I started my own Blog and went into it with no absolute notion or direction and simply started by reading other Mommy Blogs and with my own curiosity at how “good” a "writer" I could become. Two years later, I still have NO idea what I am doing, writing wise! Ha. But, I do IT, none the less. I love to write, to share and hear feedback! I like being a “Mommy Blogger” even though I don’t have my own show like Mrs. Armstrong or get paid to do it. I just do it.
Every day though I can’t stop thinking of how to make things better and improve my “skills” so,  I often seek out inspiration and motivation in others' and their "stories". As well as others' Blogs, always drawing back to my own experiences and of course the biggest and best inspiration in the last 2 years is a little boy named Santiago. Because of him the “inspiration” that, finds me is in other and of other moms. I also just LOVE reading others’ blogs.

Here are some women who I have found just awesome to inspire in many areas of my life:

Lysa Terkeurst Faith and Mom Blogger

Bonnie Faith Blogger


Monique Catholic Chick Blogger


Candida Mommy Blogger

Marsha Texas Mommy Blogger


Many Women Faith Bloggers

Monday, May 10, 2010

Not Again Monday!?

Good Day All!

I had an awesome FIRST Mother’s Day!!!!

I spent it with Family; my mom, my husband’s mom and my sister also a new mom….who when my husband went to greet her and hugged her looked at her and said… “YOU’RE A MOM!” LOL. He then turned to me…”Connie, She’s a mom!?” With a big smile they both looked at each other in amazement…who would have thought that in 2010 my little sister and I would BOTH be celebrating our FIRST Mother’s Day! That is a joy just in itself….not to mention those two beautiful boys who we have the honor of calling our Sons! In all I couldn’t have had a better day and more wonderful time with my family!

That was only Sunday! Ha.

Because we are now at 7 days from Ricardo’s trip… We now, have LOTS to do:
  • Fix Cars           
  • Pack
  • Square away bills
  • “Possible” joint Bank Accounts…my eyes twinkle. Haha. As my husband has sheer panic on his face! Haha.
  • And tons of other fun things! :D
 I am looking forward to a very productive week and also a very emotional weekend.

In the mean time ....I was reading some news and found out that a sexual predator killed himself this morning in a Galveston jail. And that led to me seeking out those predators in my area all I can do is pray...for them and for our children's safety and well being.... But here is the site, be aware:

Houston Predator Check

I know that's a very sour note to end this day with but I hope you have a great day!

Be Blessed.

Friday, May 7, 2010

Thank GOD it's Friday!!!!

Yes it's Friday!!!!

Sunday is MY first Mother's Day!

Regardless of what happens or doesn't happen on Sunday, the ONLY thing that matter is being with Santiago and my husband! Santiago is our reason for living and the LOVE of my life! My first "Mother's Day" started on September 16, 2009 and I don't feel like I need ONE day to remind me of the gift, the journey, the trust, the purpose that God has given me! I embrace it every day now and move forward!!! BUT, don't get me wrong, I love celebration and I love Holiday's like Mother's Day...it's a perfect reminder that ONE day is NOT enough to give all the LOVE and Thanks that we have in our hearts for our Moms and other Moms in our lives!!!!!

My sister Jessica and I with my mom in 1985


Santiago and I ; September 16, 2009

Jessica and Olin; January 29, 2010

This week I am feeling GREAT! Happy and Loved! God is with us in everything we do and we can NOT loose sight of that!!!!!

I am going to do my absolute best to post a Mother's Day post on Sunday...I have a pic and theme in mind...hope you guys feel up to sharing! :D My good Friend an awesome Photographer has just inspired me to maybe have some "contest" on my Blog...hmmmm...this is her awesome Blog...if you live in Houston.... USE HER FOR YOUR NEXT PHOTO WANT, SHE IS AMAZING!!!!!
Casey Ayala Photography!  and Her Blog!
[I hope these links work..if not let me know...]


I have had this song in my head all day as well...maybe cause Summer is here?!

AMERICAN HONEY!

Hope everyone enjoys their Mother's Day weekend and has a SAFE and GREAT weekend!!!

Thursday, May 6, 2010

Are we there yet Thursdays?

So. Wow, It's Thursday! Time flies when you're having fun..Ha.

Only 10 days until Ricardo's internship begins.

I have created a new mini-blog to express myself and share: http://theintriguedblogger.tumblr.com/
Should be fun..I was testing it out yesterday...lots of fun...oh yes by the way..it's in Spanish! One more thing I want to work on this summer.

I have been very busy at home and work with Ricardo in his last 2 weeks of school our house smells of chaos, not a big deal just a bit exhausting. No problem nothing a couple of deep breaths and a reminder of our Higher purpose to get things on a roll!

I have several things that I want to work on this Summer:

A garage sale on June 5th.
• Clean out my garage for the garage sale on June 5th.
• Re-Decorate my house... new pics, new colors, something more family like! Any IDEAS AND SUGGESTIONS ARE WELCOME...look for me on Tumblr...lol.
• I am working on a present for my dear friend Yvonne, who I have not seen in a while so it's still in the works...
• I want to make a couple of things for the boys (Santi and Olin); like more matching shirts and cute costumes for Halloween...
• I want to visit the Children's Museum and Houston Zoo with Santiago hopefully before Ricardo leaves in uhm 10 days.
• We have our first  Family photo shoot in about 8 days, can't wait for that!!!!! Really! Check out the photographer : www.CaseyAyalaPhotography.com  
• I am also working on a research project with my friend..more to come on that...
• I also want to read more, SCRAPBOOK more, learn something new...like Photoshop and maybe exercise more this summer!
• I also have to plan Santiago's 1st Birthday for September and his Baptism probably around the same time.

Is this too much for the next 3 months?!

We will also be visiting Daddy in Mississippi and Uncle Jess and Aunt Becky in Destin, FL! Sounds like the Summer will be over before we know it!

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

~Praise and Worship Wednesdays~

Today I woke up with my mind set on negativity....


My usual routine is I wake up, Thank God and look for Santiago and Ricardo to be ok. Then I proceed to get dressed and ready for work...that early already the enemy is spinning my thoughts in a million directions. So I pray. I pray for God to turn my thoughts into good, happy, positive thoughts and usually go about my routine.

I then get in my car and leave....putting my seat belt on and making the sign of the cross over my body for added protection; hey I live in a big busy city! :D

Today as I drove to work I remembered that it was Wednesday and as part of my blog on THIS day I try to focus on positivity and my Faith ( I still have back blogs from Lent! Have not forgotten will post them soon).... then I read this in my email:

From the "Daily Dose of Wisdom" devotionals


It’s The Best Day Ever!

May 5, 2010

My love, that true love growing out of sincere devotion to God, be with you in Christ Jesus - Renee Glover

BECOMING ONE WITH THE FATHER

“For in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God through faith.”


Galatians 3:26

Throughout your day, do not lose sight of Who’s you are and the need to consistently press toward the fullness of who you are called to be as a believer. As a believer, you belong to Christ and are a part of the kingdom of God. By faith, you grow in the knowledge of God through obedience to His Word becoming a son or daughter.

Becoming a son or daughter of the Most High God is a process and describes a believer in his or her highest state of realization in Christ. Children of God are just that, children. They have yet to put away childish things and still dilly-dally in the things of the world, sitting on the fence between worldliness and godliness.

A son or daughter is one who has matured in the Word of God. This designation is marked for those who understand they are truly clothed in Christ, completely enveloped in the presence of Christ. When you are under the influence and sway of the ways of the world, you have little or no comprehension of who you are and what is available to you through Christ Jesus. To truly recognize is to do - to obey. Operating in obedience leads to understanding. When you have reached this level, you are no longer impressed or caught up in material ways of looking at things. You have escaped from the world’s crude and elemental notions and teachings of externalism. Everything you do, whether in word or deed, is done in the fullness and truth found only in the name of Jesus. Everything you do is done heartily as to the Lord and not to men. You begin to walk in the level of love that exudes power. Your very presence in a room will change people’s lives. Hallelujah!

As a son or daughter of the Most High, this is what you must aspire to. It is, in essence, the fullness of Christ in you alive and explosive. It’s the love of God touching everything you touch; talking to everyone you come into contact, loving as only God would love. It’s oneness with God who is love.

Make this the best day ever. Remember…Jesus is Lord and the Truth you know will set you free. (John 8:32)
--
Renee' Glover, Ordained Pastor and Founder of Freedom Through Truth Family Christian Center
Co-Host and Producer of Marriage Basics One on One with husband, Ron Glover
P.O. Box 6397
Charlottesville, VA 22906

"Join us on www.freethruthetruth.org for practical, spiritual application of the Word of God for your life and your families’ lives."
This message reminded me that you don't wake up ONE day and focus on God! You wake up EVERDAY reminded of who HE is and what HE wants from your life! It's simple....He wants you to Love HIM. I love God and pray every day that my Faith continuously grows.

Mark 9: 24 At once the father of the boy gave [an eager, piercing, inarticulate] cry with tears, and he said, Lord, I believe! [Constantly] help my weakness of faith!
My heart is focused on Him and with Him all things are possible!
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.

I hope this helps someone today. :D

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Fatty Boy Tuesday:

First Tuesday in May!

Let's get this month started right! :D

I love blogging but some days life can be a real interruption (Gosh! LOL!) but it seems that I am getting back into the swing of things and it's probably the perfect time to feel this blogging thing again.....

You don't know.....(and excuse me if my thoughts seemed jumbled...)

But on April 15, after 8 months of semi-chaos our lives went into full chaos mode!

We are very, very excited! On this day I had a mini-celebration lunch with the hubby. We had to plan out the next 3 months of my family’s life.

For years now Ricardo and I have said almost on a daily basis….the first opportunity we get to travel, relocate, or leave Houston due to a job we should do it. We knew that at one point it would be him traveling for work purposes and I would stay behind with the kid(s) fully supporting him! And, today that “dream/goal” is happening and me, I am here for my husband!

I pray to God that this new journey will take us to where HE wants us to be…and I know that my husband has God in his heart and that decisions to be made in the next 3 months will not in any way humilate or shame him or destroy my husband's character or moral standing. My husband is a loyal and committed man to God and he knows that where ever God guides him, he will go, and make the moves that our purposeful for His Glory and always keep his family in high favor to what He wants us to achieve.

I can’t express how happy, how excited and how proud I am of my husband. If I was in a rut, a writers dry spell, a creative clutter or just not myself the last couple of weeks or months, NOW, I am back and ready for what is next. I have been waiting on God and He has come back in full force!

Spiritually I am feeling… drained. Too much thinking, too much talking…and too much of too much! Is this bad? Don’t know.

Now what? What are you going on and on about now Connie?

Ricardo leaves in 13 days for his 3 month long internship in Pascagoula, Mississippi.

Ricardo has been a student for 10 years, I know, he should be a doctor by now, LOL…and he jokes he was on the 10 year plan..but no matter how long it takes or it has taken him, his is continuously focused on his goal. He had worked full- time for 7 of those years but in the last 3 years we have been through one heck of a ride and now this, that we are about to experience is, I pray, going to make us stronger as individuals, as a Married couple, and as a newly formed family of 3. He has been laid off for about 8 months now, and just when his unemployment ran out and we didn’t know what was next, he was given this internship…Yup. About 450 miles away and a 7 hour drive to a small town that will hopefully bring us new hope and change, so that soon we can show everyone what we have been up to the last 10 years. Building, fortifying and accomplishing!

The next 3 months I will be strength, listening over the phone, reminding him of our journey and building him up to take on the next day with fierce passion and wisdom all which God has covered him with. My words should build his heart and soul to face the world that he has no idea is coming straight at him. For the next 3 months I should stay still and run fast all at once and God will be there. God will guide me. I have not been the best wife; I gripe and speak words that don’t feed the soul but instead poison the heart, I am human after all. But, I am done. I want grace to cover my mouth and filter my words. So that Ricardo no longer looks at me like; what are you complaining about now?

I will miss him and I will pray for him. I will have time to remember why I am here and why I got married…

In all we are about to embark on a new stage in our lives and we are SO excited, SO Blessed, and VERY much so looking forward to it!!!