10 Months: Taking Steps

Last month, I blogged that we sold our condo and it has been one month since we moved into Grandma and Grandpa's house.  This month has mostly been about getting you settled here and getting use to this being our new home.  Not too much has been going on.  We celebrated mommy's birthday this month by having dinner and cake.  The first weekend Sept 4-6, we did a little construction to your room.  Grandma put a door in the wall between mommy and daddy's room and your room.  We still struggle A   LOT with your sleeping schedule.  So, this way both grandma and mommy have access to your room.  You were first in mommy and daddy's room in the crib but you would wake up every time mommy or daddy would turn over at night.  We werent getting any sleep.  So, Cindy and Ruben came down and helped us put a door in the wall.  So you are in your own room, in your own crib and grandma can come help in and help mommy at night.  You still wake up about 4-5 times a night but grandma helps alot and she calls me in if she is unable to put you down or I go in around 5:00am for a morning feeding.  Also, Mommy started her Phonics classes this month.  Daddy watches you on Monday mornings and Grandma watches you on Thursday's mornings.  Thursday's are usually a day when cousin comes over!! YOU LOVE YOUR COUSIN!! You scream and squeal every time you see him, it's so cute.  We also celebrated grandma and grandpa's anniversary on Sept 15th.  Aunty and Mommy made them a simple dinner and we decorated the table.

This month, we also are dealing with Papa (nick) being sick.  It's mostly a day by day situation.  Some days he is feeling good and other days he feeling really bad.  That said, people have been coming by to see him and since we are living here, they see you too.  You love your papa, you climb up and like him to read to you.  You and Jace have climbed up in his arms a few times so he can read to you guys.  He has also enjoyed seeing you grow.  Regina has come by; Darlene stopped by a number of times, Pam McLaughlin and Christa Jaggers came by too.  We wanted to go up and see Maga and papa one weekend but we had to turn around because mommy's car started to overheat and have problems.  We plan on going up next month.

We went to see Dr. Winnie twice this month.  The first time, we went to see her because you had a high fever.  Your fever was around 102 for a few days, we gave you medicine and tried to cool your off.  However, it only lasted a few hours and then it would spike.  So, we took you to the doctor.  She examined you and couldnt find anything else what was wrong.  She told us to monitor you and if it doesnt break in a few days come back.  It finally broke the day after the doctor.  Then we when we went back for your 9 month check up.  She asked about your fever and said it must of been a virus.  Your 9 month check up when great.  Doctor was happy with your progress and gave you a clean bill of health.  No shots this month!!

You are moving faster and faster every day.  Grandma has a little alligator walker that you love to use and walk from one side of the house to the other side.  When we first put you on you were a little unsure of it but now you are walking so fast with it.  You are also crawling faster and faster. You have learned how to use your walker to get somewhere and then your transfer to the toys.  You are also starting to babble more and more you say, "ma ma ma" alot.  It sounds like you are calling me.  You love to talk at the dinner table, especially if mommy is talking to someone else.  You like to interrupt and talk over me.  It's too cute!! You are also starting to climb but mommy and daddy tell you, "no climbing" but that doesnt stop you.  We catch you climbing on books, pillows, and even one morning you tried climbing from mommy's bed to the changing table.  You delight us every day; we cant get enough of you.  I cant believe that in just two short months you will be turning 1 year!!!! Where did the time go?!

8 Months: Crawling

Another month flown by and I find myself sitting in front of the computer updating everything you did this month.  Each month, you do something new and just blow your daddy and I out of the water.  You are such an amazing girl and I am so happy you are in our lives.

This month started off with the everyone celebrating 4th of July.  This year, was your first one and we were at Auntie's house to celebrate. Auntie's block has a block party and everyone shoots off fireworks.   We started off at grandma's house with having a bbq and then when it was dark we went to see the fireworks at auntie's house.  I thought you would be fussy cause it was way past your "bedtime" and I didnt know if the fireworks would scare you.  However, you did okay.  You clung on to mommy the whole time.  You were so tired but just held on to me.  When you heard the fireworks go off your grasp got just a little tighter but you didn't cry or scream.  On July 5th we went up to see Maga, Papa, Aunt Adrianne and all your cousins. They just love you to death!! Lucia and Santiago loves just playing peek-a-boo with you.  Lucia was sharing all her toys with you too.  On July 11 and July 25th we went to two of your daddy's cousins baby shower.   Cousin Erika's baby shower was on the July 11 and cousin Dani was on July 25th..  All your daddy's aunties were there on both showers and they enjoyed loving on you as well.  They were holding you and loving you as well.  Mommy went to the gym a few times as well this month.  Some days grandma watched you and others you were in the Kids Club at the gym.  Grandpa was pretty sick this month as well and was in the hospital a few days.  We went to see him and we brought him lunch.  Grandpa is doing much better now, he ended up having a virus that ran it course for more than 6 weeks or so.  Uncle Josh and Aunt Nicole came down for a weekend when grandpa wasnt feeling good.  It was nice to see them since the wedding.  On July 16, grandma had a doctor appointment with Dr. Signh and we went to see her.  Dr. Signh was your doctor when you were in mommy's tummy.  The office was so glad to see you.  The nurses held you and was so impressed to see how big you've grown.  On the weekend of July 18 and 19th we had some family days.  On July 18th we had dinner with the whole Salon.  On July 19th, everyone drove up to Cindy's house and had a family day there. You, mommy, daddy and grandma all swam in the pool.  You love the water and enjoyed swimming in there.  Mommy starts her part-time work next month, August 24th, so grandma watched you as I had a meeting at Journey of faith.  Grandma is gonna watch you on day when mommy is at work so she was watching you on July 22 to see how you will do without mommy there.  We end them month with putting up our condo for sell.  We want to move down closer to daddy's work so we spent the last week cleaning and de-cluttering the house so our realtor can list it.

You are getting stronger and stronger as the days and weeks go by.  You are pulling yourself up with ease now and in many more places and by yourself.  Last month when you first started to pull yourself up you need some help with mommy and daddy but now for the most part you can do it all by yourself.  You are also now learning how to go from standing to sitting and back to standing again.  You also started to "army crawl" everywhere now.  It is the cutest thing!! You crawl with gusto down the hall, in the kitchen and toward the backdoor.  You are just starting to get on all fours but you haven't quite figure out how to crawl in that position.  You almost get on all fours when you want to stand up.  You have started to stand up by yourself for a few seconds.  You almost don't know what you are doing but as soon as you realize that you aren't holding on to anything you sit down and start to crawl again.

You have been signing "all done" and "dog" for about a month or so now.  I love watching you sign it makes mommy so proud.  This month we have started to learn "bath," "food/eat" and "sleep"  You also know the sign "more" but you haven't signed it constantly yet though.  You are loving food and will eat about anything we put in front of you.  This month you've tried tamales.  You enjoyed them, I cant wait till you try Maga's tamales during christmas! They are so good!!!

You are taking longer naps now.  Your naps can range from an hour to about two hours now and you can take about two good naps.  Some days you don't sleep well and still need three naps a day.  At night,  what can I say, things haven't changed much.  I don't know why I am still trying to get you to conform whatever "they" say.  I need to start just trusting me and going by what you need.  You'll get it soon enough, you are a smart girl.

Well baby girl, I am falling in love with you more and more.  You are doing so much and I love your new independent mentality.  However, you still know where mommy is at all times and I love when you come up to me and need me at the same time.  I love when you bury your head into my shoulders and my chest.  Well baby girl, on to next month!!!


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7 Months: Pulling up

Its funny the things you hear when a women get pregnant and have a baby.  People say a lot of things and you'll  hear you have to take with a grain of salt and never think about it again.  One of the sayings are "Things will get better at 3 months and at 6 months." I heard this and to be honest Isabella, Mommy rolled her eyes and thought how can things change that much.  BOY, I put my foot in my mouth this month.  You have been busy growing this month.  You have hit A LOT of your milestones and even some way earlier than typical.

We started out this month taking another plane trip to Missouri.  This trip was just you and me baby girl, we went solo on this and just about 2 weeks after Uncle Josh got married.  We headed to Missouri because Hailey Lopez was getting married this time.  The Lopez' are such amazing people and I was so excited to show you off to them.  Mommy lived with Don and Margie as I was going to college for my Masters.  We flew in June 4th in to Springfield, you did great on the plane.  It was a little long flight than the flight to Oregon.  That first night we hung out at Brain and Dana's house during the day.  Everyone LOVED YOU!! Kezzie and Sammy Jo loved playing with you as well as Brian and Dana.  That first night we just had a quiet night after a long day of traveling.  You met: Rich Landi, Anthony, Brian, Dana, Megan Cardwell, Kezzie, Sammy Jo, Gracie, Faith, Michelle. Don and Margie.  The next day, we went to the saddlebrooke pool with Nicole, Sophia, Anthony, and Rich.  You loved the pool, you are such a water baby and you enjoyed swimming with mommy.  After a morning of going swimming, we went back down to Brain and Dana and hung out there for a little bit longer, till Margie got off of work and took us back home.

The next day was the BIG day for Hailey and we went to her wedding in the afternoon.  In the morning, Mommy took you down and showed you off to some of the neighbors that she knew.  Everyone commented on how beautiful you are.  You were acting a little shy and would place your head on my shoulders.  You met: Hailey, Benjamin, Sam and Brenda.  Sunday and  Monday we hung out with everyone.  We had lunch the girls, and just was enjoying company.  Everyone there is such so dear to mommy's heart that I am so glad you got to meet them.  They poured their love on you all weekend long.  On Tuesday, June 9th, we headed home.  It was a nice long weekend but you were ready to go home and see daddy.  That week we stayed home and relaxed.  That weekend, actually daddy flew to Missouri to help Nino.  Nino was come in CA to pack up his things at Marie's house.  Since your daddy has such a HUGE heart he didnt want Nino to drive out by himself and then drive back.  So, your daddy flew out there on June 13th and they were gonna drive back to CA on the 15th.  When Daddy and Nino arrived after a 24 hour drive, they crashed at the house but we got to see and have some Nino time in the morning for breakfast.

June 18th, Mommy went to the gym and grandma and Auntie watched you as I worked out.  June 19th, we actually went to a funeral.  Her name was Sherri Garcia.  Mommy knew her and her son a long time ago when we were younger at church.  Brandon and Uncle Josh are about the same age.  This weekend was Father's day so we celebrated grandpa by going to the park and having relaxing day.  Then later saturday night we went out to dinner at olive garden with cousin, auntie, grandma and grandpa.  On Sunday, we went to aunt Misty and celebrated Papa and Daddy.  We had a pool party and you went in the pool with daddy.  Your cousin loved you and loved playing with you and making you laugh.  Mommy and Daddy actually celebrated our 1st year wedding anniversary on June 22!! I cant believe its been one year already.  We went out and took a family photo shoot.  You were tired but did okay.  This week was a busy one.  Mommy's 3rd cousins were in town: Soliz family and spent a week at grandma's house.  So we were there hanging out with them.  We also went to Journey of Faith, mommy had an "interview" for a part time job in Sept. 2015.   We also celebrated Auntie and Grandpa's birthday.  We ended the week unfortunately at another funeral.  This one was hard: her name was Priscilla.  She was mommy's preschool teacher when mommy was little, then Mommy grew up and worked side by side with her.

About now the biggest question people ask me is, "Is she sleeping through the night?" I dont know what to say.  I was one of those people who asked that question and just didnt understand why by now a baby wont sleep during the night.  Well Isabella, I understand now.  No, you arent sleeping through the night just yet.  Sleeping is a subject that is something we are still working on.  You wake up about 2-3 times a night and wanting to nurse.  I nurse you but by the time you are done, I have fallen asleep feeding you.  You are now use to sleeping in my arms.  Which mommy loves and you are so precious but its not good for you or mommy.  My arms and hand have been going numb holding you.  So, I am are starting to put you down once you stop actively eating.  You dont like that much and will cry but usually after a half an hour or so you are able to put yourself to sleep.  Although we hate hearing you cry its the best we can do.  Sorry baby girl, mommy doenst like it either.  It also doesnt help that your bedroom is so hot. Daddy and I are trying various ways to keep you cool and hopefully you can sleep longer.   

You have been eating solids foods for about 1 month now.  We started giving you some solids just a few days before you officially turned 6 months.  Mommy was doing some research about foods and found a method called: 'Baby Led Weaning' basically its about skipping baby foods and giving table foods.  We started it and you love feeding yourself.  You love your fruit, some veggies, bread and you'll almost eat about anything we give you.  However, when we went to the doctor about told her what we have been doing, she wasnt too keen on the idea.  She wants us to give you 3 meals of baby food a day.  As a good mommy, we have been doing that however you do not like it.  You will probably eat about 3 or 4 teaspoons of baby food.  You push it out with your tongue and turn your head.  Mommy has to actually coax you to eat by making you laugh.  You will grab table food though and almost devour it though.  So, we have been doing a mix of baby food and table foods.  

Around 6 months of age, babies are usually just starting to sit up.  Well, my precious, you have shown that you are strong and started to sit up just right before you turned 5 months.  So, since you have that down you have decided to hit the next milestone.  When we came back from Missouri, I was unpacking and organizing your drawers. You were playing happily in your crib and I was busy doing what I need to do.  After I was done, I turned to stand up and pick you up from your crib, to my surprise you were STANDING UP and had a huge smile on your face!! I was STUNNED, you just pulled yourself up.  I quickly grabbed the camera and took a photo of you standing and a video of you pulling yourself up.  Mommy was SHOCKED!! That is a 9 month skill.  I showed your doctor your video and she was impressed.  Well, that set the stage for the rest of the month.  Shortly after that, you were able to get up on all fours.  You quite havent figured out how to crawl yet but when you are on the bed you are able to pull the sheets and wiggle from one side to the other.  You also started to clap this month.  You get so excited and when we say "Yay baby" and you usually start to clap.  Also, You signed "all done" this month.  Mommy has been starting to sign to you more and more.  We sign, "more" "all done" and "eat." Right now you are mimicking me when I sign "all done" you open and close your little hands when sitting in the high chair.  You sometimes mimic mommy when I sign "more."  It looks like you are clapping but I sign it again and give you more food.  It's at least the beginning of signing "more."  Towards the end of the month, you are pulling yourself up with such ease.  So, you took it to another level and want to WALK.  Yes, I said walk holding mommy and daddy's fingers.  Need to remind you that walking is a skill that babies do closer to their 1st birthday!! Maga and grandma keeps reminding your that you are a baby and babies dont stand up or walk.  You want to show them that they are wrong and that you are strong.  Well, baby girl, we all know you are strong and you will take on the world early but right now it's okay to stay a baby.  You have your whole life to grow up.  The world will still be there, I promise it wont go anywhere.

Other than keeping up with you and your new skills, Auntie had some news to share as well.  Late last month, when uncle josh was getting married, Auntie suspected that she was pregnant.  She didnt want to upstage Uncle Josh's big day so she waited till after we came back.  When we came back life became busier and she finally took a test and it confirmed that she was pregnant.  We were so excited to have another cousin for you to play with next year.  She was due Jan 2016 just before Jace's 2nd birthday.  Then Auntie and Uncle Geoff went to the doctor for her first check up and the sonogram showed two babies!!! Auntie is gonna have TWINS!!! OMG!! You are gonna have two new cousins.  I am happy, excited, shocked.... just overall stunned.  I cant believe it.  Right now, auntie is 11 weeks and is just ending her first trimester.  The twins are due in January as of right now but the doctors might deliver them a little bit early around December 20th.  Your mommy is so excited, I would never of guessed auntie would be having TWINS...

Your doctor visits are going well.  You are growing and making good process.  Right now, you weigh 17lbs and are 25 inches tall.  The way you are growing and developing skills, I have NO idea what lies ahead next month.

______________________________________________________________________________  Did you learn any thing new about me?! Leave a comment.... that always makes me smile.

6 months: Starting New Foods

Well, my sweet sweet baby girl, you are 1/2 a year old--- 6 months old!! Your daddy and I are so in love with of you.  You are growing bigger and stronger daily!! Some days are long and we anxiously wait for daddy to come home from work however, the days are going by so fast and you are accomplishing so much.


This month was been a fun one.  The biggest thing that happened was that Uncle Josh and Aunt Nicole got married.  We started this month celebrating Papa Nick's 80th birthday.  We just had a little dinner at Auntie's house with her special china.  We enjoyed the nice sunshine and we played on the grass.  We also celebrated my 1st mother's day.  I have enjoyed being your mommy so much even on sleepless nights and crying car rides.  Friday May 8th, we celebrated mothers day with auntie and grandma and had a special breakfast that Grandpa made us.  Saturday we spent mother's day with Maga, Aunt Adrianne, Aunt Misty and everyone else.  We ended mothers day weekend with some cupcakes and card from you and your daddy.  We also went to Journey of Faith during that week too.  I use to work at Journey of Faith so grandma and I went back to see my coworkers and to show you off.  They loved you so much and want me to come back again.  May 13, we made a visit to Kathy Gronos to say hi and to get more information on introducing foods to you.  She wants us to skip baby food and go straight to table food (in of course bite size pieces).  May 14, mommy need some "mommy time" so daddy suggested that I go to Dubunne's and get a massage.  Grandma offered to watch you during my massage.  After that we meet up with daddy again for lunch, We gave you a sweet potato fry like kathy suggested to see how you do with it.  You loved it, we have photos of the fry in your mouth and you just sucking it down.  May 19th, We had a cousin day where we had lunch with Sharon and Lisa Piccari.

May 21-25, we took your first family vacation to Oregon to see Uncle Josh and Aunt Nicole get married.  You did so good on your first flight!  Mommy nursed you as we were taking off and you fell asleep and almost slept the whole way there.  You woke up as we were landing and you wanted to look out the window.  Friday, May 22, was the wedding rehearsal after that we went back to the hotel so you can take a nap and then you and daddy went swimming together.  Your first time in the pool, and you were having FUN nothing but giggles and smiles.  Saturday May 23, You met Sara and her daughter claire.  Sara is one of mommy's best friend.  You stayed with daddy while Sara and I went shopping.  Later that day was the rehearsal dinner, you were all dressed up in your gold polk a dot dress.  Everyone loved you, you were flirting with everyone who walked by.  Talking and making all sorts of noises.  Sunday, May 24 was the BIG day!!! UNCLE JOSH was getting married.  You did awesome all day.  You hung out with the girls as mommy and auntie got ready for the wedding.  Then during the ceremony, daddy had you cause mommy was in the wedding.  You were talking through the whole ceremony.   It was so cute to hear your noises during the vows.  May 25, we flew home and you did great again.

We ended this month at Adrianne's house celebrating both Uncle Jordan and Aunt Adrianne's birthday!! We had a barbecue and just spent time with them. 

Oh baby girl, You are blowing through your milestones.  You are trying new foods this month: so far youve had sweet potato fries, pineapple, cantaloupe, honeydew, bread, peaches, nectaries, frozen banana, broccoli, avocados, string beans, and a potato.  You love food and I think we are gonna have a good eater on our hands.  You like to feed yourself, we've been giving you table foods and you have been doing great so far.  You have been wanting to pull yourself up and actually you have been doing great. You still need help a finger to hold on, you also like to pull up on our shirts to stand up.  You'll be standing up on your own in no time.  You also been making all kinds of noises.  You are a happy baby and we love you.  I love when you reach for me and when you pull yourself up into my arms.  On to next month baby girl.... New people to meet, new places to see and new milestones to conquer.

___________________________________________________ Did you learn any thing new about me?! Leave a comment.... that always makes me smile.

Welcome to the World

Today is a special day, its your birthday!! Today, you made Daddy and me very happy.  

Your birth was one that will go down into the record books my love.  Mommy started to have contractions on Thursday morning before going to MOPS at church with Auntie and Grandma.  When we got to church grandma and auntie asked me if I started to have any contractions.  I said they were little but yeah that they started this morning.  Well, they started to time them throughout the day as we went christmas shopping.  I tried not to make a big deal of them because I knew it was too early for you to come.  Mommy wanted to still clean the house and go grocery shopping the next day.  However, grandma and auntie keep on saying that you were coming.  I didnt want to believe them.  

After our day of christmas shopping, Daddy and I drove home and I was so tired.  I just wanted to climb in bed and go to sleep.  However, when we got home I kept on having contractions and they kept on getting closer together.  Earlier in the day they were about 90 minutes apart but now they were starting to be 10 and 20 minutes apart.  Grandma and Auntie wanted us to go to the hospital, but I just wanted to stay at home.  Around 11:00pm, I decided that maybe we need to go to Grandma’s house so we are closer to the hospital if we need to go.  Daddy and I were in the back room and I was timing my contractions throughout the time and they were slowly getting closer and closer from 2:00-3:00 in the morning they started to become 5 minutes apart.  

We arrived at the hospital around 3:30 and we went into triage.  Once arriving they checked to see how dilated I was, we were told that I was only .5 cm and that they couldn't admit us until I was 3 cm dilated. They had Daddy and I walk around until about 6:00am and they were going to check me again.  Once, 6:00am came around they check me and I was now only one cm dilated.  I was very frustrated. Mommy was in pain and both daddy and I were tried.  The nurse explained to us that she was gonna send us home and that she needed my contractions to be 2 or 3 minutes apart for 2 to 3 hours.  She also explained that they needed to be more intense as well.  She showed us a chart and my current contractions were only about 1/2 the intensity as they needed them to be.  However, she said that she was gonna let us stay one more hour to see my pattern of my contractions.  

Around 7:00 came and there was a change of shift.  The new nurse, Marsala, came in and check me.  I was still at one cm dilated, I told Marsala that I was having severe back labor and if there is anything we can do for it.  She suggested some position and that Daddy could massage my back for me.  I was all prepared to go back home to grandma’s house to finish the labor and come back later.  Marsala then suggested that they had a tub that could help me and if I wanted to take a bath.  I was eager to go in the bathtub.  I thought the warm water would be nice and relaxing.  She went and got the bathtub ready for us and they told us we had a hour in there.  

The bathtub was perfect.  I was so tired, that I ended up falling asleep in the tub.  There was a chair in the room for daddy to sit in.  We were both so exhausted, daddy ended up falling asleep in the chair too.  I had some contractions in the tub but the hot water and the jet help ease the intensity of them and I was able to handle them more than being in the bed or walking around the hospital.  After an hour being in the tub the nurse came in and brought us back to the room to check us.  

Once she checked us, I was prepared to go home.  However, she checked me and I was at 10 cm which surprised all three of us.  Daddy commented that my water hadn’t broke yet and as soon as he said that....it broke.  Marsala immediately called for help and a room and we were off to the delivery room.  On the way to the room, I told the nurse that I felt like pushing.  She commented and said that you were on your way.  As we were being rolled into the room, I had a contraction and POP you came out in the hallway.  All of a sudden, we all heard you cry.  Marsala and the other nurses just stood there staring at us.  Eventually Marsala said, “um, I think we just had a baby.”  I was so clueless to what was happening, all of a sudden Marsala put you on my chest.  Daddy was behind me in shock and then asked the nurse, “What did we have?”  The nurse responded, “you dont know?! Well lets take a look! Its a girl!”  Another nurse called the doctor,  there was no time to call my Dr to come out so they just called the doctor that was working at the time to deliver the placenta.  

By this time, we were rolled into the room.  The doctor came in and had daddy cut the umbilical cord then he finished delivering the placenta.  Everyone was still in shock I believe.  You were on my chest, and daddy was right there with me.  We were just loving on you and then Grandma and Grandpa came into the room.  They were the first ones there.  It all happened so fast that your Maga and Papa were still at home in Murrieta.  Most of your daddy’s family were away at home or at work.  For the first few hours of your life, family came strolling in to see you and to welcome you in the the world.  

Daddy and I are so blessed to have you in our lives.  December 5, will forever be a special day.  We are so in love with you.  I pray that you will grow up putting God first in your life and loving him and obeying him.  We love you baby girl!  

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Did you learn any thing new about me?! Leave a comment.... that always makes me smile.

The Naming Game

Well, peanut.... We are entering our 39 weeks and Daddy and I have a few names picked out for you.  We still dont know if you are a boy or a girl and we excited to meet you.  When we were picking out names it was important to me that your name meant something special.  So, we looked at many names are these are the names we picked out for you.  I hope you enjoy your names, weather you are a boy or a girl.   

If you are a boy, we are going to name you in honor of Daddy’s grandma.  Her name was Benita and was very special in daddy’s life.  So if you are a boy we are going to name you Benito Anthony Herrera.  Anthony was a name that both daddy and I really like and we thought it fit with Benito well.  Benito means “Blessed.”  I really liked the meaning.  You came into daddy’s and mine life in a fast, perfect way.  2014 was a crazy year and it started off hard for both daddy and I but we are ending the year with you and for that we are very Blessed.  Anthony means “worthy of praise” 

If you are a girl, we are going to name Isabella Rose Herrera.  We looked at a list of names and Isabella is one that we both liked a lot.  I think Rose blends well with Isabella too.  Isabella means “Devoted to God” I thought this was a special meaning too.  Its what I hope for you that you will be devoted to God.  I hope I can show you how and be a good example for you.  I am still learning that lesson myself.  Its a big lesson but I hope you will learn the lesson too.  Maybe we can learn it together.  Rose means “Flower”  I liked the way Rose sounds with Isabella. 

Your Daddy and Mommy are playing this game with Grandma and Aunt Crystal.  I dont know how exactly it started but they dont know your name and they have been trying to guess it.  Its been hilarious to see the names they are guessing.  I think it started before we really had names picked out for you, we were just trying to find that perfect name for you when Aunt Crystal asked me if we had a name for you.  I believe we were still working on your name but were pretty sure we had them in mind.  I told them how many letter were in each name both the first and the middle name for both a girl and a boy.  Then Grandma and Aunt Crystal started ask me what letters were in your name.  So, I gave them a few letters.  

So, as of now, they have 

Boy: _ _ _ _ _ _ and the letters (E, I, N, T)

        _ _ _ _ _ _ _ and the letters (A, N, T, O)

Girl:  _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ and the letters (I, A, L) 

         _ _ _ _ and the letter (E)

They dont know what position the letters go and daddy and I arent confirming or denying if they come up with your name.  It’s been fun playing the game with them.  Just about a week left until they find out your name for sure.  I cant believe our due date is almost here.  I hope you come out not too long after your due date.  Mommy is getting antsy and wants to meet you.  Although, I know the first few weeks are going to be tough but I hope we get through it fairly easily. 

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Baby Shower Time!!

Its that time, where we shower you with all sorts of gifts.  Mommy is 7 months pregnant and is starting to show more and more.  Today, Maga and Aunt Misty threw Daddy and I a baby shower.  Daddy loves disneyland so it was a Mickey themed shower. 

Everything went amazingly well.  Aunt Misty and Maga made all the decorations and make it so special for daddy and I.  Your 2nd cousins came as well as your daddy’s aunts and uncles.  Grandma and Grandpa was also there.  We were showered with so many gifts like various outfits, bedding, your car seats, your high chair, your stroller and so many other gifts.  

Things are going well with the pregnancy.  You are on the move more and more.  Daddy has been feeling you move much more.  He knows what to feel for, sometimes your movements are light and other times they are strong.  No one else has felt you move though.  Its hard to get them to feel you.  

Our next Dr. appointment is this week October 2, right on Uncle Joshua’s birthday.  Can’t wait to see how you are growing and developing.  I can’t believe that we are on the tail end, only 2 more months and you will be here!  

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The House that Built Me

Its official-I have made it back home.  I have been home for about 4 weeks, its been a transition and I am still learning how to live back at home.  My parents have been working hard with helping me set up my room so I can feel independent and at home.  They converted the back bedroom into like my little apartment.  The back bedroom was my grandparents and had golden french furniture and my parents transformed it into a modern young adult bedroom.  They painted, put new carpet in and bought a headboard, a dresser and a bookshelf.

I have enjoyed my "place" and it has made things a little bit easier as I transition into the new chapter.  I have enjoyed relaxing and enjoying the summer.  We have visited family, gone to a wedding, the beach and just had relaxing day at home with Bella and Mia.  I have also tried to look for jobs, transfer my teaching certificate and looking into other avenues for jobs just in case a Deaf Educator job doesn't happen.  

I miss everyone back in Missouri so much.  I am glad that I spent 4 years there, even though I became home sick in Sedalia and decided to home; I will always be so grateful for them.  I feel like I have inherited another set of parents, sisters, brothers, three nieces, and one nephew.  I cant wait to go back and see them.  Here is a little video that I made to show all my years in Missouri.  Missouri will always be my other home.  Miss you guys and Love you so much.. Cant wait to see you guys again  ;-)

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California Thanksgiving!

I am so blessed to have two families that love and care for me.  I am so thankful for each member of those family.  However, at this time, I miss being home.  There are things I just love about waking up on Thanksgiving in California.  This is what I enjoy and what I think about Thanksgiving.  


I love the way Thanksgiving is set up in our house.  First thing that happens that I wake up to the sounds and the smells of my parents in the kitchen preparing the turkey.  I actually lie awake in my bed just listening to my mom and dad talk about what they are doing.  After that I wake up and I get myself ready.  Mom and Dad by this time are also getting ready too.  Then we all kind of meet in the kitchen and eat breakfast.  My mom always has the table set all nice for the dinner later.  We eat cranberry bread!  OH MAN!! It is very yummy, we only have it once a year so it makes it that much special.  Then the day continues as my parents check on the turkey and cook other side dishes.  I just love the way the house smells.  It makes me hungry all day knowing what is for dinner.  Then usually around 2:00 or 3:00, people start to come over. We usually have my sister and her husband, and a few of my cousins. I love just listening to the hustle and bustle of people coming over and trying to help out.  Then we sit down and enjoy the great Thanksgiving dinner that has been teasing me all day.  After dinner and dessert, we usually all sit on the couch stuffed.  Ah, It is so much fun and I cant believe that Thanksgiving is just days away!! I can't wait!! 

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The Canty/Lopez Bond....Years in the making

For the most of you guys reading this blog, I know you have heard the population verse: "For I know the plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and future" Jeremiah 29:11, but have you stopped at notice. Pull up a chair and let me tell you a story.

(Now, excuse me, mom if I get the little details wrong.)

This story started when my mom, Cheryl Renee Canty, (Pica at that time) was 18 and going to the Italian church.  Mom was very active in church.  She went to church on Sundays, Wednesdays and then had volleyball on other day , etc.  With all the activities she participated in she made friends and took a bunch of people to and fro from church.  During this time, Her path crossed Margie Puglia. Margie at this time was a young adult as well, and was dating/engaged to Don Lopez.  Now, this relationship between mom and Margie expand to include Don, and my grandparents (Bernice and Nick Pica).  When Don and Margie were newly married they started to come over to Bernice and Nick's house for dinners and various get together.  The friendship between all of them kept growing.

So, now fast forward to when Margie and Don are parents with three boys: Brian, Rick and Steve Lopez and to when Cheryl and Scott are parents with three children: Crystal, Rachel and Josh.  Now, for the most part the age span between the Lopez kids and the Canty kids was just a few years.  (3 years between Steve and Crystal).  So, fairly close in age, just the next bracket up.  The years of raise three kids became busy with school, sports, extra curriculum activities.  However, I always remember Grandma or Papa talking about what was new in the Lopez family.  Occasionally, they came over for Friday night pizza, sometimes, it is was just Don and Margie and other times Brian, Rick or Steve came over.  There were times when Crystal, Josh and I were a part of these nights and other times, "Eh"  It was something that Grandma, Papa, and mom would look forward to.

Life for both of the family seems to get busier and busier.  The Friday pizza nights were dwindling.  Then slowly we got invitation to each of Brian's, Rick's and Steve's wedding.  We attended each of them after all our families had this bond that started years ago.  It was nice to see them get married.  I mean Crystal and I were loving going to weddings and we knew the grooms!

Continue to fast forward to 2008.... Margie and Don decided to move to Saddlebrooke, Missouri. During those busy years, Brian had moved to Missouri and when Don and Margie can to visit him.  They thought it was a nice place, they would be close to one of their sons.  They came by with pizza and said their goodbyes and then they headed out to Missouri. Nicole Lopez (Steve's wife) went out with them to help them.  During this trip, Nicole received a job offer in Ozark, Missouri.  This lead to Steve and Nicole moving out later that year.  Don, Margie, Brian, Dana, Steve, and Nicole were all in Missouri getting settled in.

During those busy years, The Cantys were going to school in California.  I was in school in Oregon getting my BA and deciding whats next.  In 2009, I wanted to get into a Master's program.  I was having a hard time getting into any school I applied to.  That was when mom suggested why don't I try Missouri.  She said, "Let me call up Margie to see what school is out there and what city it is in?"  I didn't think anything about it.  So, she called and Margie told her the information and said, "If she gets in she is staying with us."  Well, I applied and got in.  In summer 2010, I moved to Missouri, into Don and Margie's house.  Within days, we had a big dinner with everyone; it was Brian's birthday.  It was so nice to have everyone over: cooking, laughing, joking, googling over the baby, Keziah Lee.

I was there for two year finishing my Masters.  That relationship that started way back when my mom was 18 with Margie has blown into generations of deep friendships.

Now, its 2012, and I am working in Sedalia as a young adult and I view Brian, Dana, Steve, Nicole, Margie and Don more as family.  Their little girls and now baby Anthony all call me Auntie Rachel.  It's so nice to know that in all the years of making this relationship God must have been smiling knowing the outcome.  It is just a great overwhelming feeling of love and contentment when I make my way to Springfield.  They all mean so much, I have watched "our" family grow and the way God's fingers are just interwoven throughout everything that is out here.

So, end of story.  "For I know the plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and future" Jeremiah 29:11.  That verse has a whole new meaning now.  Never, doubt! I like looking back and I am always reminded of how it started in the first place.

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Susan James 1948-2012

Its been a week since Susan James, Kevin's Mom passed away. She was a great woman. Most of my memories of her, of course are closely tied to Kevin. For those who are close to the Canty

family knows that Kevin has been more of a brother than a friend. He is my unofficial unadopted brother. LOL.. We have been friends for 13 years now (2012).

We met in 8th grade and we were the last two people to class therefore HAD to sit together. That was a beginning of our friendship. We have been through so much together, Birthdays, Holidays, Graduations, Jobs, Moving, Relationships ect.. Both great times and we (as all friends) had our share of our eye-scratching-hair-ripping-out-fights. Anyways, Most of my memories of Sue are woven within our friendship. I remember in High School, picking him up for whatever we had planed. She always answered the door beaming knowing it was me. Most of the time, it was a quick, pop in visit to say hi to his parents before we jetted out.

As we graduated from High school, we went to different colleges. I went away to Oregon for my last 2 year of my undergrad. When I came back, I always made it a goal to stop by and see Kevin's parents. She would always say, "Rachel, When are you gonna come home. I know you cant leave Momma Canty all by herself here." that always made me smile. She would always ask about Crystal and Josh and what they was doing, and about their relationships with potential boyfriends and girlfriends. I remember when Crystal started to date. She wasnt sure about him, she always said "No guy is good enough for the Canty girls." She always told me that she loved Josh and that the girl that he found better be something else. She would ask about everyone. She always made me smile. You knew that she loved us and cared for us just as much as she did Kevin. She always held our family so high. She knew Kevin was in good hands when he was with us. She started calling mom "Momma Canty" cause she was like Kevin's 2nd mom.

After I graduated from Oregon, I was home for a year. Sue was so excited that was "back home." During that year, I was home Grandma Been passed. I remember Sue showing her support by saying, that grandma is home now and is proud watching you guys. After that year, I was itching to move again and this time I went to Springfield, Missouri. Sue, did not that like I was leaving again but was happy that I was going on to get my Masters. Again, when I came home for the holidays, I always stopped by to say Hi. The first year that I was away was the year that we were planning Crystal's wedding. We invited Sue, Earl and Kevin to the wedding. Earl, her husband, wasnt doing well so we didnt know if sue would come because she had been taking care of Earl. Well, that didnt stop her. She said, "Nothing will keep me away from a Canty Wedding." She came to the ceremony, she wanted to go to the reception but we all knew she had to get back home. Kevin and her sat right behind the family during the ceremony and Kevin was part of the family table at the reception. After that, Sue was blown away by the wedding. She told me after, "Rachel, what an beautiful wedding! Momma Canty goes out for you girls. I want to see yours." Sadly, she wont but I know that when I get married, I'll hear her giving me her approval. :-)

Every time, I came to visit she would tell me that Earl's family is from Springfield/Branson Area. She would shoot off cities where they lived, I knew almost all the places she said. Again, she wanted me to come back home. She would always tell me to come home every time I visited! I graduated from Missouri State and she was again so proud of me. I dreaded telling her that I accepted a Job there. I knew she wouldnt like it because that didnt place me back home.

During my short, short stay over my Christmas break. I again popped my head in. Kevin, was spending his time in Atlanta, GA so it was just Sue, Earl and I visiting. Sue was right where I knew she would be: standing by Earl's side, taking care of him. We talked about how he was doing, the job, coming home and every thing else. We talked about Kevin and how proud we were of him. We talked about our friendship. She expressed how grateful she has been for us with how we were with kevin. I told her, "Oh Sue!!! Kevin is amazing guy. You dont have to worry about him. Hes got it covered." She said, "Yeah, I know! Momma Canty helped alot." I gave her that "Oh, whatever" look and reassured her that she did a great job too. I was there for about a hour visiting. She has to go and do a quick errand so I left her and I said good bye. That was the last time I saw her and spoke to her.

Through the distance, I would occasionally text Kevin, "Thinking about you! Tell your parents I said Hi." or just checking up on him and the family. Two days before, the sad new broke. I texted kevin checking up on them. He said, "Things are good. Thanks for checking up with me and my family." On Thursday, March 22 2012, I went to work thinking "Its gonna be a good day" I was teaching and I noticed my phone "blowing up" I thought. Way too early for CA for to be up. I started to think, "something is wrong" I went to my phone and I read the sad news. Mom had texted me. I couldnt believe it!! I quickly told my students go back to class and I called Kevin. The words couldnt come fast enough, the tears were streaming down my face. My heart just broke!! It was a quick call cause kevin had to take care of what was happening there.

Its been a long week. Today was the funeral Friday, March 30, 2012. Kevin had planned a lovely home going ceremony for his mom. I heart still breaks for him and his family. I have been reminded of Sue and my last conversation at Christmas, reassuring her that Kevin is going to be fine. I still know and believe that. During this last week, I have seen kevin grown in the the MAN his mom wanted him to be. I know he has a lot of his plate and it will take a while for things to be okay. Momma Canty has stepped in to a role where she has always been. She has been holding up kevin in a way that a mom could only do.

I am home for the funeral for this weekend. I am SO grateful for the friends in kevin's life that he had made. They have come along side him and as help him get through this difficult time. Its hard being away knowing that he is hurting but I am grateful for where we are in life and to know that he is okay.

Kevin and I have a great friendship and I am so honored to have him in my life. My sister reminded me earlier this week, "Thats what friendship is about. You go through both ups and downs." Kevin, I hope that our friendship will continue to grow and become deeper and richer as our lives take off into adulthood. I want to say that our friendship has lasted 40 years plus. Love you as a brother.... When it comes to you, "Water IS thicker!"

I write this blog, to get my thoughts down and as dedication to Susan James.

At Kevin's Water baptism (2008)

Kevin's BA Graduation from CSUDH (2010)

Sue, Kevin, Earl, and Grandma

Proud Parents!!

Momma Canty and Kevin

Kevin, Earl and Sue

Kevin and Earl

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1st quarter

Well, I survived my 1st quarter as a teacher. This quarter, I have learned a lot and I am continuing to learn so much. I took my first school photos as a TEACHER!! We just finished parent teacher conferences, they went pretty well. I was not as nervous as I thought I would be. I got a great review from my boss the other day. She said that I have been doing an impeccable job, which made me feel good. I feel like I tend to focus more on what I things I dont know or what things are hard but getting a good review like that made me smile.

Its been a busy quarter, I have been driving down a lot to Springfield. It most averages about once a week. We had two weddings, various birthdays, went to hay ride with a few friends, and Sammy Jo was born!!! For birthdays, it seemed like everyone had a big birthday! We celebrated: a 1 year bd, a few 18th bd, my 25th bd, and a 70th bd. I enjoy going down there, I miss everyone there. Kezzie, Sophia and now Sammy Jo are so precious, and its so hard not to have a photo shoot with them when I am down there.

Here is a few photos of everything that happened this quarter.

Don turned 70 in Aug. Our surprise gift was flying out Rick (his middle son) to join us. He was very surprised and love it.

Sophia turned 1 in Sept!

Izzy and Scott tied the knot also in Sept! Congrats you guys!!

John and Kristi also tied the knot in October. Congrats!

I love this photo of Kezzie and I... Kezzie was the flower girl in John's wedding.

We went on a hay ride. Kezzie and Sophia are just so cute!

Sammy Jo was born on October 12, 2011. She is just so tiny and so precious!!

I love her just as much as the other two.

Here is one of my favorite photos of the sisters. This is the 1st time Kezzie held Sammy Jo.

She is doing so well, with Sammy! She will be a great big sister, and Hailey is there is teach her all that she needs to know! Love you guys!

This photo takes my breath away. Papa and his girls, he loves them so much.

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Canty/Arai Wedding

Yesterday, November 20, 2010, My sister became MRS ARAI!!!

Everything was amazing!! Crystal looked so beautiful and Geoff looked so handsome! The ceremony combined traditions from a jewish wedding as well as our traditional church wedding!! It went on without any hitches!! The reception was just as high!! It looked amazing inside and out! The food was to die for, we had both filet mignon, chicken, and two small baked potatoes. I am so happy for both of my BROTHER IN LAW and MY SISTER!!! I cant wait to see the professional photos. I enjoyed every moment that night. There was about 300 people there. I enjoyed walking around and greeting everyone, they all had a good night. It seemed like they all enjoyed themselves. The it was amazing but I think it everyone that came made the wedding even more special. I loved it. Crystal and Geoff has left for their honeymoon to costa rica the next day. I am so happy that she is married, this was her ultimate dream wedding I believe. My mom surprised crystal with releasing white doves and having a horse and carriage there. They were supposed to ride the horse and carriage to the park and take photos there but it was a bit cloudy and we were losing light fast so they just took it around the block. If you know crystal at all you would know that she just died and gone to heaven when she saw the horse.

Here are some photos from the ceremony.

Walking down the aisle! She is so gorgeous!

Listening to Pastor Gary's Message

Giving their vows

Exchanging of the Rings

Reading Letters to their parents

I PRSENT YOU MR. AND MRS GEOFFREY ARAI!!!

Heading back to the church for pictures. This is my favorite photo of my sister!

Here are some horse photos:

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