Dear friends

Last week we were given some heartbreaking news. Our dear friends and neighbors are moving away. Matt said, not too long ago, that we always believed buying our house was God's blessing. But, we soon realized the true blessing was the friends we came to know and love just down the street from our new house. That would be the Todd family - Bill, Jody, Kaleigh, Hannah and Liam. It would be difficult to imagine our neighborhood, our church and our lives without them, alas, God has called them away.

Bill recently accepted a position at Bellevue Community Church in Nashville, Tennessee. That's about 2 hours east of the college Matt and I attended down there. While we are excited for them, our hearts are saddened by the news. Bill and Jody have become dear friends, friends I truly consider family. And, just like the absence of a brother and/or sister, they, along with their 3 wonderful kids, will be missed. I know we're not alone. There are many in the Woodcrest family who will feel their absence. They have become ingrained in our little community of believers.

We'll have the opportunity to visit them. But, it hurts to think that they won't be down the street anymore, the happy little bunch that is the Todd clan. I miss them already just thinking about it. Who are we going to watch the UFC with? Or, hang out for no good reason? And, who's gonna play Gears of War 2 and Guitar Hero with me?

Good luck you guys and may God bless you in the new chapter of your lives. We love you!

Friendships

I was talking with a friend yesterday about her weekend. Her family had come into town for a few days and Matt and I were able to visit with them for a bit on Friday night. Anyway, my friend mentioned briefly a conversation she had with her mom. Her mom told her that she liked her friends and that our group is like a family. I couldn't agree more.

My mom used to be concerned with us, with me, all alone in the Midwest with no family. It wasn't until she met my friends that she realized, we are just fine. She was glad that I had such great friends that really are like my extended family.

I hold my friends dear to my heart. Since I've been away from my family, my friends are an important part of my life. It was that way in college and, even more so now that I'm married and have a family of my own. In fact, I sometimes think good friends should be cherished. It sounds cheesy, I know. But, family is supposed to like you. They're family after all. Friends, on the other hand, they hang out with you if they really like you, not because they have to.

So, here's to all of my friends out there. I love you and pray that God pours His blessings on you. :)

I'm thinking pink!

It's official. All facts point to one thing. A girl. That's right, we're having a girl. And we couldn't be more excited. Well, I know Isa's pretty excited. She's been wanting a little sister, and, well, now she's getting one.

The baby's nice and healthy. She's in the 50% percentile in weight, which is roughly 1 lbs. right now. The heartbeat is good and strong. Her organs and bone structure were perfect.

I just can't stop smiling.

Tomorrow's the big day

I can't wait. Tomorrow is the day we find out whether we're having a little Ben or little Carmen. Yup. We have the names ready, just need to know which one we'll be using. It's something I've been looking forward to because I'm excited to see Isa's reaction. We've done everything we can to make her a part of the whole thing. We know it'll be a big change for her. She's going to go from being an only child to a big sister. Man, that's just crazy.

I tell you what, she's going to make a great big sister. She's already telling me all the things she's going to do to help me with the baby, like changing diapers, feeding and changing the baby's clothes.

We got a call yesterday from the school we want Isa to go to. It's a Christian school that has an excellent academic record. We'd like to ensure that Isa is an environment that is not only challenging academically, but that her school takes a partnership role in her spiritual development as well. They informed us that they had an opening for her in their afternoon session, which is what we were hoping for, and that we need to schedule a meeting with the principal. I'm looking forward to it.

Lots of changes coming our way this fall. A new baby, Isa's starting school, and I'm transitioning from fulltime work to a stay-at-home-mom. Fun times in the Walker household.

18 weeks and counting

I've officially entered my 18th week of pregnancy. I'm anxiously counting the weeks because my ultrasound appointment is just 2 short weeks away. That means, we're likely to find out what we're having. This is of course, assuming our baby isn't modest. I know with Isa, it took a while for her to get over her shyness. Just before the doctor gave up, she showed the world. It was great.

It's funny, this pregnancy is not like my first. I'd have to say that the first time was much easier and I think for a lot of reasons. One, I was much more active at that time, playing softball and volleyball. Matt and I would head over to Oakland Park and play some frisbee golf. I can remember doing all 18 holes, than tapering back to 9, and finally, just however many I could do as the pregnancy neared the end. Because I was active then, I don't recall being so tired. Now, it only takes a walk to here and there and I'm worn out.

Secondly, I was 6 years younger. I think age has a lot to do with how your body handles pregnancy. I know for me, all those years of beating up my body in sports is taking a toll. And pregnancy doesn't help. Back when I was pregnant with Isa, my knees weren't as bad and my back didn't bother me as much. Now, after being diagnosed with arthritis in my right knee and aggravating my back easily, it's made this pregnancy much more difficult, physically speaking.

I think Matt assumed that I would take this pregnancy the same as the first. I don't think he gets that I'm more tired than the first. It kind of bothers me a bit. I mean, he calls me lazy now because I just don't have the energy to help around the house. Granted, I'm not as tired as I was just a few weeks ago, so I've been doing a bit more to help. Still, this pregnancy has been a bit more rough and I'd like for him to see that, or at least understand. I can't change that I suppose.

Doting, doting and more doting

Sunday morning, Isa and I went to have breakfast at Bob Evans. I actually prefer a Cracker Barrel breakfast, but am not keen on the wait. So, Bob Evans is the next best choice for biscuits and gravy. I know, I'm Hispanic, but I love biscuits and gravy. Of course, if there was a local place that made great huevos rancheros or huevos con chorizo, I'd definitely be there. But no. Like most Mexican food in Columbia, if I want 'good' food, I have to cook it. And, Sunday morning, well, I just didn't feel like cooking.

It was the first day in the last 4 or 5 that I actually felt normal. I had been fighting a sinus infection all that time and had the worst headaches I've had in a long time. This along with all of the other pregnancy stuff made for an unpleasant week. Add to that, Isa being sick for a couple of days, and then Matt waking up with a horrible fever Saturday morning. Ugh, just not the greatest week.

So, this Sunday, Isa and I splurged a bit. Just the girls, while daddy rested in bed at home. I could tell he was feeling better though 'cause he was joking while got ready to leave. I hate to see him sick so it was nice to see him smile and act like himself.

As we arrived at Bob Evans, we were seated within 5 minutes. (That would never happen on a late Sunday morning at Cracker Barrel.) Of course, it didn't take long for the hostess and server to dote on Isa. It's something were used to now, but it still makes her feel great. Her lack of shyness and just shining personality don't help matters. She jokes with people and just gives them that cute little smile Matt and I love.

An older couple sitting near us played with her the entire meal. The older gentleman actually asked me if he could play with hr for a bit. After a quick yes, he leaned over and asked her if he could marry her. Isa quickly responded, "no." "Why not?" said the man. "Because, I'm not big enough," she responded. "Well," he continued, "can I be your boyfriend?" She smiled and said no. People at the other tables were already smiling and laughing at her smart remarks. She enjoyed it.

It was a fun morning just me and her. After breakfast, we made a quick run for some Gatorade and 7Up for Matt. I told Sarah, our good friend about the morning. She laughed and said something we need to remember when the new Walker arrives. She told us to keep in mind all the attention Isa gets now. Things will change with the new baby. I expect Isa to have some jealousy, but I think she'll do okay. She's really excited about having a little sister. Although, we've told her it might be a boy too. We'll see come August.

Week 14 couldn't come any sooner

Today, marks the beginning of my 14th week of pregnancy and the beginning of my 2nd trimester. As excited as I am about the new person growing inside of me, I couldn't wait to get to this point. To me, the 2nd trimester is the most exciting part of being pregnant. At this point, you are more likely done with the nausea and sickness, which, thank goodness, is the case for me. And, from my previous experience, the final trimester was more uncomfortable than enjoyable.

With this 14th week, if am finally feeling better and have actually enjoyed food (some food, not all). Which is more than I could say just a week ago. The fatigue is still here, but I can deal with it. I was just hoping the nausea would go away so I wouldn't have to resort to taking any more pills than I have to. I was merely holding on for the 14th week to see what was going to happen.

I'm also excited about this stage of the pregnancy because I'll get to feel the baby for the first time in a few weeks and we'll get to see what we're having in early April. Matt and I really don't care what we have, as long as it's healthy and has 10 fingers and toes. Matt worries more about the baby being healthy because of his medical history, but I trust that God will take care of us regardless.

This week has been a little rough on me. Matt's been on a work trip since Sunday, thankfully returning tonight. I have to say, I am exhausted. Taking care of a 5-year old, 2 50-lbs dogs and the house work has left me pretty tired. I don't know how you it Natalie. And, work has been crazy busy with a handful of urgent projects along with lots of little ones that pop up. That's not even including my freelance work which has taken a hit. As soon as Matt gets home, I'll be glad to have someone to share the responsibilities with, and finally get some rest.

It's official ... August 16th

I had my first doctor appointment, with more to come, today. Matt and Isa came with me. It's important to me that Isa is a part of the process as much as possible. She was so excited while we were in the lobby, seeing all the women with babies in their tummies and then looking at me saying, "mommy, you have a baby in your tummy too." She's just precious.

When they called my name, we made our way back to get some initial stuff taken care of. You know, the 100 questions about your medical history, checking blood pressure, weight, and height. I sometimes think I'm boring because my answers are nearly always no. When it comes to Matt, that's entirely the opposite. Most nurses we meet are intrigued by his medical past (and current), and this case was no exception. Especially considering the reason for my visit.

After all of the measurements were made and questions answered, we were lead to a room in the back where you could see a small ultrasound machine. I told Matt yesterday that they would take a look at the baby. I was right.

We waited for just a few minutes when the doctor made her way in. This is only my second appointment with her (my previous OB/GYN retired) and she seemed great initially. She was very upbeat and obviously excited for us. She introduced herself to Isa and chatted with her for a bit about the baby. I like the fact that she took the time to do that. I really like this lady.

We finally got underway, and she brought a nurse in to assist with the ultrasound. Honestly, it's not a pleasant experience, seeing as they use a vaginal ultrasound on the initial visit. But, here's to 7 1/2 months of unpleasant experiences (I'm 7 weeks along), not counting post-partum of course. Right away you could see the cashew-shaped fetus with tiny heart beating. Isa got a real kick out of it. Matt and I did as well.

All looked well and the doctor sent me up for my labs and to schedule my 2 upcoming appointments. I have one every 4 weeks. But, April 3rd will be the much anticipated on of all. For me at least. That's the one where we get to see whether we're having a little Ben or little Carmen.

I am, as of today, 7 weeks and 2 days pregnant. The due date is August 16th and that means I have a long summer ahead of me.

Stay tuned ..

Oh, to have pants that fit

I've noticed over the last couple of weeks that my pants have been fitting a bit snug. I wasn't quite sure what to think yet. I haven't been eating more than usual, in fact, healthier than before. Well, maybe I'm retaining water, which I've never done before, but hey, there's a first time for everything, right?

Well, last Saturday I found out why. Of course, I was suspicious the Thursday before that because I missed my window. What's my window you say? Well, I have been tracking my monthly visitor each month for the last 6 to 7 months. That way I have a fairly good idea of when I'm about to start. It also puts me on alert with Matt. I know when I'll be extra nasty, so I try and watch myself. It's worked for the most part.

Anyway, back to the window. I missed last week, no doubt. And, Saturday was my first opportunity to find out for sure. As the little blue plus symbol exposed itself on the little "pi" stick (that's what Matt calls it), I knew for sure. That's right. I'm pregnant. Matt was still sleeping as all this happened.

So, I ran to the desk across the house and grabbed a handful of blank note cards. Inspired by Love Actually, I wrote on each card, "Happy," "Early," "Christmas," "I'm pregnant!" I walked back into the bathroom and picked up the test stick. With note cards and stick in hand I knelt down by Matt to wait for him to wake up just a little.

As I put the test stick down and got my notecards ready, it happened and I nudged him. He looked at me like "what the heck?" So, I showed him the notes, one by one. I could see his sleepiness was giving him some difficulty with the final card, so I put it down and picked up the test stick and showed it to him.

He looked at it, then at me, and gave me a teary smile. We held each other for a few minutes. Our lives are going to change, yet again. And we can't wait.

Home with a sick child

No work for me today. At least not in the sense of my job work. I've got plenty to do here at home like washing dishes, finish the laundry, and pick up toys. Funny how the housework never ceases. There's always something to do. So, with my sick little girl watching cartoons to forget her puniness, I'm off to the call of chores. Until tomorrow.

Thanksgiving Feast at the Academy

Isa's daycare had their annual Thanksgiving Feast today at lunch time. I was looking forward to it, because, over the last 2 years Isa's been enrolled there, the food has been excellent. Definitely up to par with the quality food prepared by families all across the country on this day of thanks.

I was very tempted to stuff myself silly, but was able to muster up some self control and only eat smaller portions. On my drive back to work there was a pleasant sensation in my stomach. I was full enough to be satisfied, but not stuffed and bloated as is typical this time of year.

I want to say a quick thanks to Miss Stephanie and Miss Zoe for all of the hard work they put in to make the Thanksgiving Feast great for the kids and their families.

Life happens

We're all familiar with the phrase "life is hard." In fact it is. Sometimes more than others, but in general, life has a tendency to throw you lemons. All that remains is how you respond and react. I firmly believe that if life weren't hard we wouldn't need God. People have a tendency to ignore God when things are good, but, when times are tough, really tough, it's all you can do to keep on. Our saving grace is falling on our knees and asking for grace and peace and comfort.

My mom just called, and she's at that place in her life. The month of October has been difficult for my family.

We almost lost my abuelita, and she was ready to go. She had a peace about where she was at and where things could go. You can't help but be in awe about it. After my abuelita recovered, praise God, we then had to deal with the wildfires.

By 'we' I mean my brother, Henry and his girlfriend, Vanessa. At one point, they were packed up and ready leave their apartment. The fire came within 200 feet of their place, but was pushed back by the hardworking firefighters. My brother admired them and praised them for the dedication and diligence they displayed.

More recently, just this past week, my tia (aunt) Maria Elena, my mom's older sister, was apparetnly knocked down by a group of skaters and suffered a head injury. She was taken to the emergency room because of hemorrhaging. My mom's heart broke as she saw her laying in the hospital bed, head swollen and tubes. My tia has lost a lot of weight too, being a single mom, trying to raise 3 boys, who are now men who could care less for her and her situation. They've basically run her ragged.

To hear my mom's heartbreak on the phone is, just plainly, hard. I want to just reach over and hold her and cry with her. But, all I can do is listen and pray that God will comfort her and my family.

We're going out there for Christmas in a few weeks. My heart is anxious and excited all at the same time. I really don't know what the trip will be like.

Scope of the damage

Henry and Vanessa are fine. Their apartment was spared from the charred mess the fires have left in their wake. The fires are still burning, but for now, my family is out of harm's way.

I went to OC Register's website this morning to get some updates. I came across the map of the area where the fires have been burning. I just can't believe the damage. I remember driving down Santiago Canyon Road many times for practice and to visit my sister Vero in Corona. The hills were beautiful and made for a much nicer drive than taking the freeway. Now, the hills are just black and some are still burning.

Just to give you guys a better idea, I've included the Google Map of the affected area.

View Larger Map

Henry and Vanessa live in Portola Hills, just at the edge of the fires. Talk about a close call. Praise God.

Prayers for the burned west coast

Photo: Steve Zylius, The Orange County Register

I'm sure most of you are aware of the craziness going on in California. If not, wildfires have burned much of the west coast leaving charred remains of land and homes in its wake from Los Angeles to San Diego. In the middle of that is Orange County, where I was born and raised. My family still lives there. And when news broke out about the fires in OC I immediately logged on to OCregister's website to get some more information.

I read that one of the fires was burning awfully close to my brother's apartment. I grabbed my phone and called Henry to see if he was okay and to get some more information. He said he and Vanessa, his girlfriend, were on alert and had their bags packed and ready to go. The flames had burned a mere 200 feet from his apartment when they were pushed back by firefighters. Still, there is always the threat that the Santa Ana winds could blow their direction. He told me to call our parents later for more information, since that's the place they would go for shelter. Our parents only live a few miles away but aren't in any danger.

I talked to my mom this morning and she said Henry was fine and they didn't have to evacuate last night. But, mom and dad were ready if they needed to get out. She said the worst part, this morning, is that the smoke is blowing into their house. It could be worse I suppose. She said that last night her and my dad walked over to the park a few houses down and watched the flames slowly creep up Saddleback mountain. She said the orange glow looked like a snake as it made it's way up the mountain.

Side note:
As I made my way to work this morning, I was listening to Kid Craddock on Y107, a local radio station, as they talked about the wildfires. They made a few insensitive jokes about it and just talked about the celebrities who were losing their homes to the fires. Tom Hanks is the one I remember. But, I was struck by the utter lack of compassion and sensitivity these dj's displayed. They did mention that it was 'bad' what was going on over there. But, to crack the jokes they did is just plain stupid. Local dj's don't crack jokes when people lose their homes from tornadoes. But, they get tornadoes and understand that scenario. Hey, I grew up in California, and I understood two things, wildfires and earthquakes. I was really irked by these morons (can you tell?) and wish I'd had the opportunity to put them in their place (of course, it's not my place). All that just to make themselves appear to be funny. Well, I've got news for ya Kid Craddock, you're not.

Fun evening with Japanese drummers

Last night, the family headed over to Jesse Auditorium (MU) to watch the Drummers of Japan perform. Officially known as Yamato: Drummers of Japan, this group of talented musicians were simpy amazing. The evening began with the resonating percussion of the odaiko, a "big, fat drum" made from a huge tree more than 400 years old, and continued for an hour long display of technical skill, strength and musical chemistry. If you haven't seen these folks perform, I'd highly recommend it. Even Isa enjoyed herself. She was especially fond of the crowd participation requested by the drummers to compliment the show and the bit of humor and personality displayed. These weren't the stoic, serious Japanese bores, in fact, they blended precision with playfulness and enjoyment. Truly made for a fun family evening.

For the record, I wasn't too excited about it. It was Matt's suggestion and a good one at that.

Mi abuela (update) 2

Great news! My abuelita is out of ICU, breathing on her own, and talking. Praise God! I know I have friends out there that have been praying for her. Thanks!

Mi abuela (update)

I got some great news from my brother last night. Our abuelita Carmen was taken off the respirator and breathing on her own. She had her eyes open too. I just wanted to say a quick thank you for to our friends for your continued prayer.

Mi abuela (my grandmother)

I was told last week that my abuelita (grandmother) was diagnosed with lung cancer. It made me very sad. She's not very old, in my mind at least, she's 78. I know her health hasn't been great, but she has been better. A few years ago she was diagnosed with diabetes and has done a decent job of managing it.

The last time I went to visit her, it's been a couple of years, she told us that she had fallen on her daily walk to get her abarrotes. Abarrotes are groceries. Anyway, the walk to the store is no picnic. There's a steep ravine between her house and the store, and the path isn't even at all. She fell and broke her ankle that day, a compound fracture. It broke my heart just thinking about that happening to her. Seeing her that moment, she was healing just nicely, walking with a cane and bruising still visible on her ankle.

Getting the news last week made me miss home. I've been trying to keep up with her condition, but results of her biopsy weren't going to be ready until Friday (last week). I waited, and no call Friday. Saturday, halfway through my workout, my sister called. The results were clear, no cancer or tuberculosis. Great news I thought! But, then Vero (my sister) told me that abuela had a blood transfusion Friday night, and it didn't go as expected. She is now in ICU, sedated and hooked up to a respirator.

As of Sunday, no big changes, but dad told me she looked better. They were going back tonight after work to check in on her and help relieve my tia Emma. My tia has been at my abuela's side the whole time. She's missed work for the last two weeks to be with her. I can't say enough about my tia, a working single mom with a 'crazy' teenage son.

I'm not writing to ask for sympathy but to help me deal with the emotion of having a grandmother nearing the end of her life and knowing that she doesn't know Jesus. I plan on flying out there, and will have a more definitive time after I talk to my dad tonight. I hope.