Our Journey to Seth James

2nd week of Seth's ISR Swim Lessons

2009-07-16T09:11:00.001-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_XMuJS75ZQ

First Week of ISR (rescue swim skills)

2009-07-10T06:55:00.000-07:00

This is Seth's first week of I.S.R. Swim Lessons.

21 Months update

2009-05-15T03:56:00.001-07:00

On May 6, Seth James turned 21 months, boy it's so hard to fathom that seth will soon turn two. It just seeemed like the other day when we were in the hospital with this lil guy. The picture above is one that reflects him with his lil Jesus teddy that his grandma gave him for Easter. If you press his left paw, the teddy sings "Oh Jesus Loves Me, Oh Jesus Loves me, Oh Jesus Loves me, the bible tells me so.... And he loves it ! He plays it over and over again and then with his sheepish smile looks up at me at says "Jesus" in his own loving way that only mama can understand, heh!

Speaking of language, our lil guy we begin speech therapy sometime next week. As I had Seth evaluated by the Early Intervention Program for speech therapy and he did qualify for the program which is great because it is funded by the state/government and it is fully paid for. A speech therapist will be coming to our home once a week for one hour to work one on one with seth. His Elegibility Evaluation Results were the following:

Gross/Fine motor skills: Average scores for all sections our between 85-105 (seth scored 103)

gross skills he's at about a 19 mth old and fine skills he is at about 28 mth old.

Self-Help/Adaptive Skills: He scored an 80 - he's about a 15 mth old - he still puts inedible objects in his mouth, picky eater but he does eat well the food he likes.

Social /Emotional skills: He scored 105 - he's right where he needs to be between 21-24mths.

Academic/Cognitive including pre-literacy skills: He scored a 90 - he's ranging between a 13-22 mth old in this area.

And last but not least - Receptive and expressive communication: He scored a 92 (receptive seth is at about an 18mths old and expressive which is his speech he is about a 15mth old. Seth has maybe about 10-15 words that he says but it's not consistent. He understands when someone speaks to him and he does have use of some sign language.

So there you have it - please keep our lil guy in your prayers that the speech therapy will help him in his further development.

Seth all in all is doing great, he continues to grow not only physically but emotionally & spiritually believe it or not. When we sing praise and worship songs to our Lord he can distinguish the difference in music and he promply raises both hands in awe of our savior.... GOD IS GOOD!

Oh that reminds me, when I took him to the evaluation for speech, there was a nurse present, the speech therapist and also the coordinator and when the ask me what words he says consistently, I proudly said "JESUS" and they all chuckled and gave me a WOW look.....

Almost 19 mths

2009-03-04T19:20:00.000-08:00

Oh a baby with a machine gun - not good

Don't I look like such a big boy

Check out my new sandals

Hello Mama?

Seth is just a few days away from turning 19 months. And Oh my goodness, I guess this is the trying age of this lil guy. He is into absolutely everything, I mean everything. Between the lil guy grabbing everything he lays his little eyes on to climbing on tables, couches, toy boxes, chairs. Anything that has some sort of height, seth is up and climbing. But I must admit that he is as cute as a button. Between his beautiful blonde hair & blue eyes to his charasmatic (politician) hello wave that he gives to everyone and I literally mean everyone. He is a true ham (as I mention this, my heart swells with so much love for this lil guy).

What's New with Sethey Poo

2009-02-26T18:53:00.000-08:00

God is so good to us and continues to bless us constantly with his bits and pieces of miracles that we get to witness everyday. For the past two weeks, Seth has been spending time with his brother and sister, Julia and Billy. A few weeks ago Julia and Billy came over and we spend the day at the park. The kids had a fun time and I was able to capture lots and lots of pictures of the kiddos.

Then this past weekend, Seth had a treat. Yep his sister and brother spend the night at our house and the played and played until they couldn't play anymore. Seth eventually over stimulated passed out, while me and Julia baked some yummy cookies. And Billy, well Billy played guitar hero and bowled with anthony while also spent time with Herb.

We have been so ever blessed that the Lord has allowed us to expand our family, not only did we get another son but we also inherited the love of two more kiddos (billy and Julia), I truly love them both as much as I love sethey poo.

18 month check-up

2009-02-13T06:29:00.001-08:00

It's hard to imagine that our little man is growing up so fast. Feb, 6 - seth turned 18 months old. He had a doctor's visit yesterday. According to the doctors, seth is doing great. He's grown 4" and is now weighing 24lbs and 12 oz. My only complaint is that he is a very picky, picky, eater. If anyone has any suggestions out there in cyber space that I can try to make him eat new foods. Please advise.

Unfortunately, the doctors say that's a battle that he has won because I can't make him eat. So we just have to wait and see how this eating thing progresses.

Seth also goes to toddler time classes on wednesdays at our local library. He loves it and it's nice to see how he interacts with little people his age. On Friday's, sethey and I go to a toddler dance class together at the YMCA. It's great, very upbeat, lots of dancing and a tired mama at the end of the hour. It's a class where they incorporate dancing, exercise and gymnastics. Below are some updated pictures of our lil man.

My Angel Face

2009-01-02T11:42:00.000-08:00

Too cute not to post. Our lil miracle baby boy.

Before you came into my world

2008-12-15T15:10:00.000-08:00

To my sweet baby Seth,

Before you came into my world

I never tripped over toys
or forgot words to a lullaby.
I didn't worry whether or not
my plants were poisonous.

I never thought about immunizations.

Before you came into my world
I had never been puked on.
Pooped on.
Chewed on.
Peed on.

I had complete control of my mind
and my thoughts.
I slept all night.

Before you came into my world
I never held down a screaming child
so doctors could do tests.
Or give shots.
I never looked into teary eyes and cried.
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.
I never sat up late hours at night
watching a baby sleep.

Before you came into my world
I never held a sleeping baby just because
I didn't want to put him down.
I never felt my heart break into a million pieces
when I couldn't stop the hurt.
I never knew that something so small
could affect my life so much.
I never knew that I could love someone so much.

Before you came into my world
I didn't know the feeling of
having my heart outside my body.
I didn't know how special it could feel
to feed a hungry baby.
I didn't know that bond
between a mother and her child.
I didn't know that something so small
could make me feel so important and happy.

Before you came into my world ,
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night
every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay.
I had never known the warmth,
the joy,
the love,
the heartache,
the wonderment
or the satisfaction of being a Mom..
I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much,
before you came into my world

But you know what Baby Seth - I am so blessed to call you "My Son" and I love having you in my world. I love you more than the whole world and back. Thank you Jesus for this precious gift.

Sixteen Months today

2008-12-06T06:55:00.000-08:00

Today Seth James is 16 months old. Boy they sure grow up way to fast.

Sometimes, I wish I can slow down the growing process so I can enjoy the time when he was smaller.

He is our precious miracle baby and Oh how I love this lil man.

Happy 16 month day baby boy. Mama Loves you more than the whole world and back.

Did I mention these new Milestones

2008-11-25T13:48:00.001-08:00

So last week my hubbie, me and Seth went to North Carolina. I went to visit some friends and Herbie went for business. During the four days we were up there, Seth met some milestones. Our friends have wood floors in their home. Well, seth felt pretty confident I suppose in his walking skills and began to take much more steps. One day he even walked like 10 steps or so. I was too happy, he then voluntarily as teaching him how to blow kisses with his hand for many months, decided that he would impress everyone he met by throwing kisses to them at their request. That was so cute !

The last milestone was that on our way back home at the Charlotte airport, we decided to have lunch at Chili's, so I ordered a glass of water and as I placed the straw inside. Seth motioned that he wanted some water. As I placed the straw in his mouth not expecting anything to come out, the little stinker wrapped his little lips around the straw and WHOLA - The water came flowing out right into his mouth. He's been sucking out of straw ever since. My heart swelled with pride watching our little man conquer these milestones in his life.

Well since I am on a bragging role - I am proud to announce that SETH IS OFFICIALLY WALKING - YEP - 15 months later but he is now walking. Can you tell that I am one proud Mama?

Happy Forever Family Day Clip

2008-11-13T19:25:00.000-08:00

Seth's 1st Forever Family Day

2008-11-13T18:49:00.000-08:00

To view all of the images in a Gallery view, click on VIEW IMAGES.

Seth's 15th Month Check-up

2008-11-06T11:53:00.000-08:00

Now isin't that a smile that will melt your heart. I know it melts mine everytime I look into his eyes.

Today, Seth James is 15months old. Where did the time go. His check-up went well. Doctor says he is doing great, he weighed in at 22 lbs and 13 ounces and he is 30.5" in height. His head is 48" (big head and she said that he has a big IQ and alot of brains) so yayyyy.

Seth's development is good, although he is walking alittle bit she said that if he stands on his own and takes a few steps than that's considered walking and YES he is doing that. I mentioned to her about his climbing abilities. The climbing thing is becoming quite dangerous. Just yesterday, he climbed a little toy table (don't ask me how he got up there) but when I looked Seth was on all fours on this little table and of course seconds later, he tumbled to the hard floor and let out a yiping scream. Then a couple of hours later, he grabbed a big truck that he has placed it right near the coffee table and stood on that to climb on top of the coffee table. Within seconds he came tumbling down again and let out another yiping scream. Seth is a major climber :)

Other than that, his doctor says that he is doing great and he did have to receive 3 shots today, HEP A, The Flu shot & DTAP (not fun - poor baby screamed so much, we were home by 12:00 noon, he fell fast asleep in the car and is still sleeping) Poor Baby !!!! Well that's all for now. I will be posting pictures of seth's forever family day soon !!! Stay in Touch.

NOV. 5TH (SETH'S FOREVER FAMILY DAY)

2008-11-05T10:12:00.000-08:00

Yes! Can you hardly believe it, today Nov 5th is our (1) year forever family date anniversary. Seth James is forever ours !!!! You know God always says that their our miracles happening every day, some are little miracles and some our big miracles. Having Seth join our family is a BIG miracle and today we are going to celebrate.

We will be going out to dinner to celebrate his (1st) forever family date with pictures and some yummy dessert. Lord Jesus thank you for this

precious gift that you have trusted us with. May we always live out each

day to honor and glorify who you are and represent in our lives.

I will post some pictures later of our celebration.

Update

2008-10-25T18:44:00.000-07:00

Oct. 25 - Our little seth James is now 14 months old. He will be 15 months on Nov 6 and HE IS STILL NOT WALKING -- What the heck is wrong with our little guy. Just kidding, I think his issue is that he is just plain lazy, but still it does not take away from his cuteness. Seth is doing great, a very picky, picky eater. Believe me we are working on it, he says quite a few words. Two word sentences but only once in a while and he is learning both english and spanish. Although, I try to talk to him only in spanish and his older brother talks to him in english until I correct him and tell him to speak to him in spanish. His daddy is the same way, I will catch him talking with him in english and then I rush to remind him to speak to him in spanish. As I really want seth to learn the spanish language, it will benefit him in the future and since we live in America, he will pick up on the english language almost anywhere.

Other than that our little man is doing good. He is growing like a weed. Last doctor's check up he was weighing in at almost 23 lbs but they did not take his height. But he is quite tall (at least he looks it to me). On Nov. 6th, he has his 15mth check-up, I will post his growth on his blogsite. Until then I will leave you with some new pictures. Enjoy !!! Oh and did I mention that he is a climber... Okay well Seth is a climber, he climbs on everything....

DAY 3 of the TETE (Final Day)

2008-09-11T06:42:00.000-07:00

Well yesterday was day 3 of sethey not having his binkey. The Binkey/TETE issue is history. Yesterday I actually threw it away. You know it's weird though because even I had a connection with that DAM Binkey. Keep in mind that Seth had that Binkey his whole life for 13 months. He took it from the time he was a newborn in the hospital until just the other day. I have posted about the one time that I lose the binkey at a mall in North Carolina and I had to backtrack every step to find that darn rubber thing.,

But anyways, it is now history and we will move on to the next issue. Thanks for sharing in my story. Peace.

DAY -2 of the TETE Withdrawl

2008-09-10T07:04:00.000-07:00

Day - 2

During the day it was a piece of cake with Seth not having his TETE/Binkey, he did not really miss it too much. No downpour cries or fits in fact his behavior was excellent. He is being a super trooper.

Seth normally takes two naps a day - well the morning nap went well - (At the same time I am training him to fall asleep on his own in his crib). I am doing the minutes interval steps, which is you put him in the crib and tell him nite nite & then you walk out, within five minutes, go in twice and secure him and then leave the room, then you do the same for ten minutes and so on and so forth until he understands that he needs to go nite nite.

He is doing great and and things seem to be progressing.

The "TETE" (Binkey)

2008-09-08T18:42:00.000-07:00

DAY 1

As much as it breaks my heart - Seth's soothing oral fixation has been taken away. Tonight is Day 1 - I officially took the pacifier away at bedtime around 7:00pm, poor baby cried and cried and cried some more. He was unconsolable and yes pretty much hated me or at least that's how I felt. After crying for about 1 1/2 hrs, I put him on the floor to play with some toys to get his mind off of not having is tete. Around 9:15pm I put him down on our bed & you guessed it, the crying began again, but this time it was less pitched and more winey. After a few minutes, he streched his back (like in an arch position) mama rubbed his belly and Sethey fell fast asleep. We will see what the night has in store for us. Please include us in your prayers. Nite-Nite !!!!! Okay so here is how the night went. Seth woke up at 10:30ish an cried again for about 20 minutes. He finally went to sleep until 2:30 am. He woke up crying again, but this time the cry lasted maybe 8-10 minutes and then he fell asleep until 7:15 .

Some pictures from Seth's birthday

2008-08-07T16:54:00.000-07:00

Sethey taking a bite into his cake !!!

Yum Yum !!!

1 Year Later - Happy 1st Birthday Sethey

2008-08-05T20:33:00.000-07:00

Taking you back (1) year ago from Today. Happy 1st Birthday Baby Boy

Tuesday, August 14, 2007

Who, What and When did this happen

This is our story about Seth James. After pretty much being infertile for it seems like forever, my hubbie and I decided to try Invitro Fertilization back in 2003. Running a 50-50 chance that I could get pregnant, I did. We were over the moon with happiness. Into the fourth month of my pregnancy, we began to endure complications as it seemed that there was a problem with the baby. It turned out after carrying the baby for 7 1/2 months, I had to give birth to our stillborn son, Baby Emmanuel. It was a very long journey for me my hubbie and pretty much the entire family. After struggling with infertility, I finally get pregnant to only lose the baby 7 1/2 mths in the womb. But our faithful God and his infinite plan always carried me through.

Today August 14th, 2006 - I proudly annouce the birth of our new adopted son Seth James. Seth came into this world on August 6th, weighing 7 lbs 11.6 oz and 19 1/2" long.
This domestic adoption was very emotional, again our faith carried us through day in and day out. In the next few post I will go into detail about what this domestic adoption entailed and how life is for us now that our little man is home.

I want to give God all the glory and honor for orchestrating this domestic adoption. For allowing me to be still and listen to your voice even though I was surrounded by many distractions throughout this process. You told me many times to remain faithful to you, to TRUST YOU above all things and that you would do the rest. How blessed we are dear Lord to be able to take all of our thoughts and worries and hand them over to you and you will carry the cross for us as we make our way toward our journey.

I love you Lord more than the whole world and back. Thank you for being my heavenly father, my source of strength and my rock.

Today (1) year later - August 6, 2008

Our precious baby boy turns (one) today, I thank our awesome GOD for orchestrating and delivering our son to us and with the same grateful heart, I also thank GOD for Seth's birth parents, although sethey's birth mother passed away back in 2007 - there is no doubt in my mind that she is with us everyday in spirit. Kacey I thank you for allowing our God to use you in such a powerful way, your spirit lives with us everyday and also with your precious children that you have lefted here on earth. I can't thank you enough for the gift that was given to us and may your spirit live in paradise for eternity.

Sethey HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY Baby Boy !!!!! We love you soooooo much ...... pictures to follow tonight. Stay tuned !!!!

Our Baby Emmanuel 5th birthday Today

2008-08-05T12:27:00.000-07:00

"Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me will live, even though he dies".

Yes today 5 years ago, I was in the hospital working my way to giving birth to our still born son Baby Emmanuel. Although, baby emmanuel is not with us on earth, he remains very close to me in my heart. I know he is in Heaven playing with Jesus and with our grandparents that are up their too. Having to live those difficult moments in our life just continues to remind me of how good our GOD is. Three years later to almost the same day, in GOD's infinite wisdom he created baby seth in another women's body to be delivered to Herb and I on August 6th, 2007. Our precious Lord has given me the best of both world's. I experienced the physical pain of Labor with Baby Emmanuel along with the emotional wounds that came with it, but I also experienced GOD's Glory during that entire time. Our Jesus never ever left our side, he was walking with me every step of the way, along with our precious Blessed Mother. And then, three years later he blessed us with Baby Seth - who's birthday is tommorrow. I could not ask for anything more.

Someday my precious son we will all be reunited in Heaven and there will be nothing but joyous laughter for the rest of our lives. I love you so very much baby emmanuel and I carry you in my heart every single day of my life.

Today, I will light a candle for you - please continue to be our angel in heaven and to be the beacon of light that we all need here on earth. I love you my precious boy.

Love your Mama !!! Happy 5th Birthday

More Baby Einstein Magic

2008-07-17T07:34:00.001-07:00

And this is why Seth is having a Baby Einstein Party. Enjoy the video.

Little Man modeling for Carters Online

2008-07-02T07:31:00.000-07:00

Seth's modeling agency approved the pictures that we took modeling Carter's clothing line. To my surprise I submitted a picture of him drooling everywhere and that is the one they chose.

If you go to www.fashionforkidsonline.com click on catalogue then Rompers-bodysuits you will see Seth in action.
Too Cute !

Our little man is a model - written by a proud Mama !!!

Cute Updates

2008-06-24T13:22:00.001-07:00

The picture above have complete meaning let me explain. The one of Seth playing in the garbage, well it's exactly that. This child loves to roam though the garbage. And the one of him in the sink, well that was today. Seth had a major CACA spill everywhere so there you have it. Enjoy the pics.

As I haven't blogged or updated in awhile - Sethey Poo is doing great. This month he has rapidly discovered new and exciting things. He finally learned how to grab the railings of his crib and pull himself up, now it's like excersise for him. The moment I place him in his crib he grabs the rails and up he goes. He then looks around for anyone to engage in his discovery and then he follows through with a contagious laugh, too cute. He is now practically running in a crawling position, he latches onto anything he can get his hands on and he pulls himself up. Today actually he began to take small steps as he grabs on to anything he then begins to walk sideways. It just amazes me how the human body does things by instinct, pretty amazing. He is continuing to grow, although I am not happy about his eating habits. He is just giving me all the trouble in the world when it comes to his food intake. As he is very particular with what he likes and if I try and force him to eat it, he then gags until he throws up so if anyone has any suggestions, feel free to bring them my way, but all in all he is a happy baby. He continues to bring so much happiness into my life, I could not imagine my life without him. Thank You Jesus.

Updated pixs of Seth and his new haircut

2008-06-05T10:03:00.001-07:00

Mama and Seth taking a
picture at the Beach Sethey on the Sand Seth's new Haircut
Check out his short hair cut
Just Chillin

One Big Family

2008-06-01T16:43:00.001-07:00

Making memories with Julia & Billy

2008-06-01T15:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we took a trip to N. Ft Myers so Seth can meet one of his big brothers Billy and his older sister Julia. We had such a wonderful time, it was so great being able to follow what you feel in your heart and just witness such happiness and love. Ever since Seth was born, I have always felt that he is our miracle baby and how we are so blessed to have him in our lives. God used Seth's BF and BM to give us this gift that we so desperately wanted and could not have on our own, however, in the beginning of this adoption (and I'm sure any adoption for that matter) there tends to be fear and anxiety, the fear of the unknown, the birth family, the health, the unsureness of things. So many things pop into your head when you are dealing with adoption, but at the same time it is one of the most beautiful and rewarding gifts that one can experience. One of the things that I always prayed about was dealing with the birth family. One of the conditions that we went forward with a domestic adoption was that we both felt that it had to be a closed adoption (again being captivated by fear). Fear of what? That someone might try and take our baby boy. The truth is that YES I have been captivated but guess what not by fear. I have been captivated by the Love of Jesus Christ and by the grace and peace that he gives me. I have been captivated by his word and by his promise. The promise that when he gives us a miracle or a gift that he never takes back what he gives us. My heart has become so broken in HIM and my eyes have become so open in HIM that I not only feel and know that we have been blessed with a miracle baby boy but we have also inherited another family. By the blood of Jesus, we are all brothers and sisters in Christ (even if your not a follower) we are still brothers and sisters in Him, our family has also inherited Seth's birth family - we are one in HIM. And that my dear friends is what moved my heart and opened up a window so that Seth can not only know about his birth family but also be a part of them. As I sat in my upper room praying, praying, praying about allowing seth to know his brothers and sisters, the Lord revealed something to me. This is baby seth's blood relatives, I the Lord have given Seth to you and your family and you have inherited a new person in your family, why not give Seth that same opportunity. I did not want to have to live knowing that Seth's birth brother and sister could have been a part of his life and I took that away from him. My heart swelled with pride yesterday when I was able to witness the love and happiness that glowed from Seth's relatives eyes. Not only from his brother and sister but also from his grandfather and grandma. Life is a circle my friends, the love that is given to us we must not keep for ourselves but pay it forward to the people that cross our paths.

Kacey - if you are watching from heaven, I promise to always love your little boy and to allow him to be a part of his siblings life. May the light of Christ always be with you and thank you for this precious gift that you gave us before you left this earth. Your purpose was complete - you joined two more families together and for that I will always be thankful.

Modeling???? Yep Seth is an Official Model

2008-05-15T14:20:00.000-07:00

As the header of this blog reads, YEP, seth is an official model. Today in the mail we received Seth's first online modeling package. His first modeling assignment was for Carters. A very cute light green outfit that was sent to him to begin his porfolio. Once these pictures have been taken I would need to download them into his website. Once these pictures have been approved, the modeling agency will provide me with the wedsite address where we can view Seth modeling the clothing. In addition, he will also be viewable in the talent scout database receiving the exposture needed with the potential to receive requests for additional modeling jobs. I am so excited.

Stay tuned, once I have these pictures in order I will post them to the blog.

9 month check-up

2008-05-13T14:18:00.001-07:00

Our little man turned 9 months old on May 6th. Today he went to see his doctor for his 9mth check-up. All is well. Our little man is weighing just shy of 20lbs and is 29" long. He is in the 75 % percentile in the growth charts and the doctor says he looks super. He is already crawling and moves all over the place. He is standing and has pulled himself up, YEAH !!! We have been working on that. Thanks to his AYI who came over and gave him some occupational therapy. Out little guy will soon be riding bike with his mama - the picture that you see of his helmet on is for our bike ride that we do together on mama's bike. He looks like a little midget (but so precious). The swimming classes are going well. He is not a happy camper when mama dunks his head under water but he deals with it. My first mother's day with our little man and my older son was wonderful. We woke up headed to mass, had brunch and then went to the zoo with the rest of the family. It was great, we had a fun time but very hot. We ended our evening at my sister's home, put all the kiddos to sleep and went swimming in the pool with the older kids. It was a wonderful day and evening.

Swim Video # 2

2008-05-07T11:24:00.000-07:00

Videos of Seth's First Swim Class

2008-05-07T11:09:00.000-07:00

Seth's swim Class Session # 1

More Teeth

2008-04-22T18:03:00.000-07:00

Okay so as much as I want to say that this is Seth's set of teeth, there not. But today's development is that Seth's two upper teeth have broken through his little gums. Poor thing. About 10 days ago he was so fussy and cranky and now I think looking back his teething is what must have been buggin him.

Checking and rubbing his gums today, I found that his one upper tooth is already out and the other one is well on it's way.

He does kinda look like this little person to the right... Very Very Cute.

Our Sethey Poo is growing up too fast for words.

Seth's bath time

2008-04-16T17:06:00.001-07:00

This was taken during today's bath session. He has a funny little personality.

Latest Video of Sethey

2008-04-14T17:09:00.000-07:00

Here is an MPEG that I took of Sethey being totally silly. Hope he makes you laugh as much as he made us laugh. Enjoy !!!!

Today Seth James turns 8mths old

2008-04-06T08:29:00.000-07:00

Today Seth James turns 8mths old. It's so hard to believe how fast the months are flying by. Before you know it will be time to plan his 1year birthday. Let me share all the new things that Seth has accomplished this month.

He rolls over continously from front to back

He rolls over continously from back to front

He is now sitting up

He pulls himself forward in a sitting position

He holds his bottle and juice cup all by himself

He recognizes most of his family members

He raises his arms up to you when you go to carry him

He gets up on his arms and knees and begins to rock himself

He moves all over the place

AND DRUM ROLL PLEASE ---- THIS WAS TAUGHT TO HIM BY HIS MAMA

While he is sitting with his Mama in her chair at work (behind me I have a picture of Jesus; Well when someone ask him "Where is Jesus"? He looks up at Jesus and starts to smile and laugh. OH YEH !!!!! GOD is good all the time. "Ask and it shall be given to you". Thank You JESUS !!!

Seth you have brought sooo much happiness into my life these past 8mths, You make me laugh, cry, smile and just be in awe of you. I spent late hours of the night just watching you sleep and I am filled with so much pride when I see you accomplish things ar your young age. I giggle with you as I watch you play in the bath, and then my heart swells when you grab my cheeks and just want to be carressed. I love you soooooo much, and I thankg God everyday for you. You are our miracle baby !!!!! love you, mom.

Conversation with God

2008-04-05T18:06:00.000-07:00

I associate this story to maybe what could have happened before Seth came to be ours. God is such a miracle worker. What would my life be without him. I don't ever want to know. Thank You Jesus for being so BIG in my life. For being my creator, my savior, my rock in which I stand and also for being the pilot of my life. I love you sooooo very much and I thank you for loving me the way you do.

Stay tuned for an 8th month update on Seth: April 6th.

A baby asked God, 'They tell me you are sending me to earth tomorrow, but how am I going to live there being so small and helpless?

God said, 'Your angel will be waiting for you and will take care of you.

The child further inquired, 'But tell me, here in heaven I don't have to do anything but sing and smile to be happy.

God said, 'Your angel will sing for you and will also smile for you. And you will feel your angel's love and be very happy.

Again the child asked, And how am I going to be able to understand when people talk to me if I don't know the language?

God said, 'Your angel will tell you the most beautiful and sweet words you will ever hear, and with much patience and care, your angel will teach you how to speak.

And what am I going to do when I want to talk to you?

God said, Your angel will place your hands together and will teach you how to pray.

Who will protect me?

God said, Your angel will defend you even if it means risking its life.

But I will always be sad because I will not see you anymore.

God said, 'Your angel will always talk to you about Me and will teach you the way to come back to Me, even though I will always be next to you.

At that moment there was much peace in Heaven, but voices from Earth could be heard and the child hurriedly asked, 'God, if I am to leave now, please tell me my angel's name.

God said, 'You will simply call her, 'Mom.

7 Month Update

2008-03-24T10:32:00.000-07:00

I know that I have not posted for a while, I don't even know if anyone out there in Cyber World even reads this or not but that's ok it's all for Seth anyways. Seth's 7 month update went good. He continues to grow and develop on a daily basis. Seth is measuring at 27.5" and was weighing on March 7th, almost 18lbs. Yes he is getting so big so fast. Mama pretty much has him on his routine and when we get out of the routine, boy is it hell for me. Seth LOVES his structure, he takes two naps a day. Usually wakes up between 6-7am, he takes his bottle and goes back to sleep until about 8:30ish. We then head to work, were he plays for alittle while with all his toys or watches his baby Einstein videos then he takes his morning nap around 11:00. After he wakes up, he eats homemade food that his po-po makes for him and then after he eats, he get's cleaned up, plays for alittle while and then he takes his afternoon nap. He takes his bath between 5-6pm, watches his videos at home and then around 8:00pm he is out for the night. Seth has always been a great sleeper, he sleeps through the night and when he wakes up between 6-7am, I rise to a beautiful smile creeping up at me from his crib. We are thankful everyday for his birthparents and truly blessed for having our miracle baby. Thank You Jesus!

Seth knows how to shake !!!!

2008-03-06T11:45:00.000-08:00

Okay so seth learned how to sign "Mama" but he was also taught by his brother how to shake it. Check out this video. Enjoy !!!

Communicating With My Little Man

2008-02-25T20:02:00.000-08:00

When Seth was about 4mths old, his doctor told me to buy the baby Einstein video called First Signs and have Seth repeately watch it. Well I did buy the video and he's been watching it and so have I. Together we have learned all about the world of signing (sign language). His doctor told me that if we exposed him to sign language at about 4 mths old, then by the time he was 8 mths old, that he would be communicating with everyone by signing, since at 8mths, they are still quite young to speak. Anyways, I have been teaching him the basic sign language, mama, daddy, milk, eat, drink and so on and so forth, but I have been really, really, really agressively teaching him how to sign "Mama". Well, all that hard work finally paid off. Today, my boy was sleeping and when he awoke, he opened up his eyes and I was right next to him and when I look, my baby boy was signing "Mama". I was sooooo excited, I signed back at him and repeatedly said "Mama, Mama" and all he did was sign and give me the biggest smile ever, almost like the one in this picture. Of course, after all the bragging I did to my family especially to my hubby, I then all of a sudden see Herbie in the corner carrying Seth, and signing "daddy", it was quite funny but very cute. Another milestone, I am just lovin this thing called motherhood. Thank You Jesus !!!!

Pictures from North Carolina

2008-02-21T10:41:00.000-08:00

Me and My Three Men

Our North Carolina Vacation

2008-02-21T09:23:00.000-08:00

Last post I made was about our drive to North Carolina and I shared alittle bit about our friends and the incident at the mall with Seth's pacifier. Well we finally made it up to the Beech Mountain on Friday 2/15 - it took us about 2.5 hrs. We left at 9:15 and made it to the restaurant were we met Herb's sister and her hubby and all the kids about 12:30ish. Upon arriving to the mountains the temperature was about 50 degrees, not much snow. The ski hills had snow but that was about it. I did take some cute pictures of us in the snow. Around 2:00ish we checked into the condo, a very nice 3 bedroom condo with a beautiful view of the mountains and the trees. On tuesday it finally snowed, everyone was so excited, we went out and took lots of pictures, had the opportunity to bundle up and set the fireplace and just shared family time. It was really really nice.

Yesterday, Wednesday 2/20 it was my sister in laws birthday, My nephew Shawn and his girlfriend elyssa baked their mom a cake which was yum yum and also cooked dinner for all of us. Since it was pretty cold during the day, I'd say it must have been about low 30's we cranked up the fireplace and made smores (yummy yummy - Hershey's kisses and marshmellows all melted inside the graham cracker).

Today is 2/21 and it is Barrel's birthday (I did learn that Barrel means Barry in Hebrew) and I just love that name so - with that being said, I will now start calling Herb's brother in law barrel instead of Barry) anyhow I am digressing, going back to Barrels birthday, we had planned to go out to dinner tonight for his birthday but their is a storm that is supposed to come in the afternoon and we just don't want to be on the road with the slick ice on the roads at that time, so we have decided to stay indoors and the kids voluntered to cook again but this time they are going to make chicken teriyaki (yum yum).

Other than that everything has been wonderful. We have had alittle snow (which is better than nothing) but we are so grateful that we have been able to spend a week with our family. More memories have been made and tucked away in our hearts.

Thank you Janette and Barrel for inviting us to spend this week with all of you.

North Carolina Trip

2008-02-14T12:41:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture of Seth and Madison at the Concord Mall in Davidson NC.

Here are some pictures from our trip so far in North Carolina.

We finally began our road trip to North Carolina on Tuesday morning Feb 12th. We finally left the house around 9:00am and got on the road. Holly Cow, I never realized how much you have to pack for a baby. Seth has (4) large duffle bags filled with clothes, shoes, food, formula., play pen, bath tubs, I can go on and on. It truly was a mission to load the car with all of these items. Anyhow, we made it to davidson, North Carolina in about 12 hrs. We could have made it faster but with Seth we had to stop about 3 times for diaper changes and his food. But all in all it was not a bad road trip at all. Seth did wonderful, he was a trooper. He napped, eat, watched his baby einstein video's and then did more napping and he was just jolly. He actually did better than what I expected which was great.

We are spending a couple of days with some friends of ours and then Friday morning heading up to the mountains to meet with Herb's family that is also vacationing with us. When we got to davidson NC, it was about 9:00pm and it was in the 30's. Last night the weather was dropping in the 20's and the local news stated that the weather in the mountains were in the teens. It's going to be freezing up there.

Today, my friend and I and her 18mth old and sethey poo went to the mall to do some valentine day shopping, that was pretty fun. It was an outlet mall and the sales were great, I bought seth tons of clothes, like he needs more for a total of $35.00. Turtle necks .99 and a snow bib and another snow outfit for $7.00, the sale was too great to not purchase anything. I could not hold myself back.

I have to share what happened to me at the mall today with Seth's pacifier. From the beginning I did not want to give him a pacifier, I hate them and I think they are sooo not clean (no matter how much you wash them) but anyhow, because of the oral fixation that babies need and also the fact that a pacifier reduces the chance of SIDS by 80%, I figured I would deal with Seth sucking on them. Anyways, we walk into Carters and Seth is in his stroller, I was there maybe about 45 minutes, keeping and eye on the pacifier that Seth had, all was good, I continued to shop, we cashed out left carter's and went into the Disney store, by this time Seth is getting hungry and sleepy, so I look for the pacifier and it's no were to be found, I take seth out of the stroller, check his clothing, take out all the bags, by this time everyone in the store including seth was looking at me as I am frantically looking for this piece of plastic that this child of mine sucks on in order to go to sleep. I could not find it anywhere, I wave down my friend and tell her that I lost Seth's pacifier and I was going to have to back track my steps to see if I lost it on the way to the disney store. I ended back in Carters looking all over the floors frantically and it was no were to be found. I thought oh my it's not going to be fun to have to train seth all over again with a different pacifier, i've tried that already and he just does not take any other one. So as I am getting ready to leave the store, I go to the register (line is full) I cut through the line and there's like 4 cash register's, so asked one of them if anyone had found a pacifier, the girl on the end tells me, "Oh yeh I found one but it's in the garbage" I looked at her like if she was talking about a million dollars and I said, it's ok can you give it to me, I will wash it really good.

Low and behold, the pacifier was recovered and life was good for me again. May everyone have a lovely Valentines Day.

6 month update

2008-02-14T12:26:00.000-08:00

On Febuary 6th, sethey poo turned six months old, I can hardly believe it, these kids grow up so fast. I took seth in to the doctor for his 6 mths vaccination shots. He got all of his shots and he also cried bloody murder, poor baby. It breaks my heart when he cries too the point that he turns purple (literally) and tears are rolling down his cheeks :(

But anyways, he is weighing just shy of 17 lbs and he is 26" long. The doctor says he is doing well. He now drink 3 - 4 bottles and day and eats his homemade food that his po-po makes for him, all in all he is doing great.

He takes 2-3 naps a day, loves to watch baby einstein videos (he LOVES the puppets) takes his bath between 5-6pm and is out for the night by about 8:00pm. He is a wonderful baby and we truly are blessed. THANK YOU JESUS !!!!

The Story about a Penny & God

2008-01-30T16:47:00.000-08:00

There is so much truth in this story - and this is the reason why I wan't to share it on Seth's blog. During Seth's entire adoption process from the very beginning until this very day - we have had to walk blindly by faith and TRUST IN GOD'S plan for our life when it came to this adoption. I am so glad we did, because had we have gone on our what if's and fears, today we would not be holding the precious gift that our Good Lord had for us.

Thank You Jesus for your perfect plan in our lives. I Love you, much !!!! me.

A Penny & the Truth

Several years ago, a friend of mine and her husband were invited to spend the weekend at the husband's employer's home. My friend, Arlene, was nervous about the weekend. The boss was very wealthy, with a fine home on the waterway, and cars costing more than her house.
The first day and evening went well, and Arlene was delighted to have this rare glimpse into how the very wealthy live. The husband's employer was quite generous as a host, and took them to the finest restaurants. Arlene knew she would never have the opportunity to indulge in this kind of extravagance again, so was enjoying herself immensely. As the three of them were about to enter an exclusive restaurant that evening, the boss was walking slightly ahead of Arlene and her husband.He stopped suddenly, looking down on the pavement for a long, silent moment. Arlene wondered if she was supposed to pass him. There was nothing on the ground except a single darkened penny that someone had dropped, and a few cigarette butts Still silent, the man reached down and picked up the penny. He held it up and smiled, then put it in his pocket as if he had found a great treasure. How absurd! What need did this man have for a single penny?

Why would he even take the time to stop and pick it up?Throughout dinner, the entire scene nagged at her. Finally, she could stand it no longer. She casually mentioned that her daughter once had a coin collection, and asked if the penny he had found had been of some value. A smile crept across the man's face as he reached into his pocket for the penny and held it out for her to see. She had seen many pennies before! What was the point of this?"Look at it," he said. "Read what it says." She read the words 'United States of America ' "No, not that; read further .

"One cent?" "No, keep reading.""In God We Trust?" "Yes!" "And?""And if I trust in God, the name of God is holy, even on a coin. Whenever I find a coin I see that inscription. It is written on every single United States coin, but we never seem to notice it!

God drops a message right in front of me telling me to trust Him? Who am I to pass it by? When I see a coin, I pray, I stop to see if my trust IS in God at that moment. I pick the coin up as a response to God; that I do trust in Him. For a short time, at least, I cherish it as if it were gold. I think it is God's way of starting a conversation with me. Lucky for me, God is patient and pennies are plentiful!"

When I was out shopping today, I found a penny on the sidewalk. I stopped and picked it up, and realized that I had been worrying and fretting in my mind about things I cannot change. I read the words, "In God We Trust," and had to laugh. Yes, God, I get the message!

It seems that I have been finding an inordinate number of pennies in the last few months, but then, pennies are plentiful! And, God is patient..

The best mathematical equation I have ever seen: 1 cross+ 3 nails = 4 given

That's the whole gospel message simply stated.

Remember this: If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it. If He had a wallet, your photo would be in it. He sends you flowers every spring. He sends you a sunrise every morning Face it, friend - He is crazy about you!

God didn't promise days without pain, laughter without sorrow, sun without rain, but He did promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears, and light for the way.

Have a blessed Day, Peace !!!

First Video Clip of Sethey Poo

2008-01-29T12:59:00.000-08:00

One of the many memories of Sethey Poo laughing and giggling.

I have found so much happiness in seeing Sethey Poo laughing, giggling and making memories with me and the rest of the family. He is just a doll and I am sooooo very thankful for this precious gift that we have been given.

Seth - you have brought sooooo much happiness into my life and I am so humbled to call you my son. Love your mama.

A Bear Of A Life

2008-01-18T19:50:00.000-08:00

Okay so let me explain how this happened.

Seth's Ayi got a new toy and decided to use Seth as bait to explore.

My poor baby boy !!!!

Update on Sethey Poo

2008-01-17T09:36:00.000-08:00

Well once again, here I am praising and giving God all the Glory because Sethey Poo is on his way towards recovery. Yesterday, I took Seth to the doctor and she said that Seth's chest and lungs were all clear. The doctor also had me decrease the amount of times that I give him the nebulizer. Now instead of every
4-6hrs it's to be given to him 2x a day for the next 3 days and then discontinue the Albuterol treatment.

Seth was also put on a medication called Singular - and that is to prevent him from getting Asthma in the future. He needs to be on that pill for (6) mth, one pill a day, to be mixed with food. Other than that Seth is doing just great.

Blessings to all.

Enjoying the Beautiful Day

2008-01-15T18:28:00.000-08:00

As you can see, Sethey Poo is feeling alot better, he still has the coughing of the RSV but it is much better. No more anti-biotics, nor steroids, but he is still getting the neubulizer treatment every 4-6hrs.

Tomorrow, we are off to the doctor's office to get checked up on again. I will post again tommorrow.

Blessings to all,.

Five Month Update

2008-01-14T18:46:00.001-08:00

Well besides getting better from RSV - This month has been a milestone for Sethey

Poo. He has discovered alot about his body, let's see - he has discovered his genitals and tries to grab and then stretch (Ouchie), he has discovered that he can grab his feet and then brings them to his mouth, and he has discovered that he can take off his socks. Hmmm, that stripping part (reminds me of one of his cousins) who could that be ?????

Other than that he is just getting cuter by the bits. Today we went grocery shopping and besides the usual of getting stopped by women to say how cute seth is, a man actually stopped us twice and stared at Seth and said WOW !!! look at that face, he will be a chick magnet. The same man stopped me again just minutes later in a different aisle and said to the girl he was with, "Look at this baby - Is he not adorable??? The lady said Awww - he is too cute.

And Seth just loves the attention. He was created by our wonderful Lord and Savior (How can he not be made any more perfect), again I thank my Lord and Savior for this precious gift and I thank Seth's birth parents for loving him that much to give him a chance at life, and also for giving me the gift of motherhood. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU !!!

2008-01-11T11:20:00.001-08:00

Here he is focusing on watching Baby Einstein videos

(The only way to keep him calm in order to do the treatment)

Seth getting the albuterol breathing
treatments - every four hours

Po-po taking Seth's temperature (notice how they both look at the camera )

A tired Mama taking care of her baby Boy.

(Even Mama finds time for a smile)

A Sick little Seth

2008-01-09T14:38:00.000-08:00

Update on Sethey Poo - Dec, 6. 2007 seth turned 5 mths old. Yes - it's already been five months since that midnight ride to Cape Coral Hospital to meet our new son. I could hardly believe it. Seth continues to grow and do well. It's awesome to see him discover life on a daily basis. Truly, the gift of life is a miracle. Thank You Jesus for allowing me to experience motherhood.

Today, we had to take Seth to the doctor, he had been having a rough cough / cold symptons since last week and it's been progressively getting worse. It turned out that he has RSV - what is that you may ask - you can read all about it at: http://www.rsvprotection.com/what_is/what_is.aspx , pretty much in our language it is

"Baby Bronchitis" as his doctor called it. It is pretty serious and needs to be treated right away.

So after a busy morning with the doctor, a shot on his leg, aerosol breathing treatments, steamy baths & antiobiotics - this is what you have: - a tired out little five month old that wants to sleep his sickness away :(

Four and a Half Month update

2007-12-19T13:16:00.000-08:00

Seth went to the doctor on Dec 11. for his four month check-up. He weighed in at 15 lbs and 26" long. The doctor says that he is doing and looks great. He is right were he is supposed to be developmental wise. The doctor played with him and then laid him on his stomach and Seth even showed her his tricks. He roled over right on the mat where she had laid him. The doctor advised that we can begin to give him his solid foods (which we had already begun) so he is now in full force of experimenting the world of nutrition, he has already had green beens, squash, carrots, & peas. His fruits have been bananas, pears, apples (which he hates) & peaches. He is definetely growing like a weed.

Our days with Seth our becoming alot more active, as he still of course naps but not like before and when he is awake, he does not like to be on his back for too long of a period. He is becoming much more active. It's time to get him a walker !!!!

He absolutely loves the "Baby Einstein" videos. Now he watches them and then actually laughs outloud when he sees the puppets moving. He finds it very funny and it does entertain him for quite a while.

My baby Boy

2007-12-10T18:35:00.000-08:00

Seth is practicing hard to keep his head raised and here are one of the cute pictures that I was able to capture.

My baby Boy is toooo cute !!!!

Another Milestone

2007-12-04T22:52:00.000-08:00

Seth will soon be entering his four month of life. It's been an amazing four months. Everyday is a new discovery in this little guy's world. He has already discovered his hands and the things he can do with them. The other day I was taking him a bath and he completely lifted his legs up (I know it's just a matter of time before he realized he can bring his feet to his mouth). He also already knows how to roll over and just yesterday in his car seat he was lifting his head - if he could figure out a way to climb out of that car seat, he would. It's been really neat being a part of his world and watching everything new that he discovers.

His sleeping pattern is great, He still pretty much takes his last feeding at 10:00pm and then he is out for the night. His little personality is just too cute. His out loud laughter just makes everyone smile around him, sometimes as we play together he just laughs so much that I need to get away from him because I am afraid that he's gonna have a heart attack from how hard he laughs.

I absolutely am sure that he has attached himself to me as I have attached myself to him. Everyday that passes the bond becomes tighter and tighter with me and I am so thankful for that. He definitely knows who his mama is - and everytime he sees me, he just smiles.

I look forward every morning to awake to his smiling face and I will forever and ever be grateful to his BM and to our Lord for this mirace gift that he has given us. Thank You Jesus !!!

santa photos with Seth

2007-12-01T20:29:00.001-08:00

A cute picture of Seth

2007-12-01T20:24:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite pictures of our little guy

Update on the Bosch Household

2007-11-28T20:57:00.001-08:00

Wow! It's been a while since I have had anytime to blog about anything. I wish I could just be a full time mom but unfortunately my circumstances of life does not allow me to do that right now so I am in the middle of running our business and taking care and watching our son grow day by day. It's really hard - sometimes I get so frustrated because I just want to be with Seth and dedicate all day and night to him but, I got to do what I got to do, it is what it is. I know that I am rambling but I need to vent because I have had one hell of a day.

I missed blogging about our Thanksgiving, wishing that everyone had a very blessed holiday, I know we did. I am very very thankful for all the wonderful blessings that the Lord has given us - the biggest one yet has been our son Seth James.

Speaking of Seth - he is now 3 1/2 months old. I have begun to feed him solid foods. He's been drinking cereal with formula since he was about 3 months old and just a few weeks ago, I started him on bananas for a few days. I must say he loves bananas. Last week I explored with green beans and he wasen't too fond of it but he did eat it and it was all ok, no reactions which was good. Today, I started him on apples and I must say that apples is a no go for this little guy. He has not had any reaction other than alittle indigestion which I think is from the apples but I know he didn't like it too much because as I was feeding him - he would lock his lips as to say "No more Mom" (Too cute).

On Dec. 6, Seth will be four months old already, how fast has time flown by. I still remember holding him hours from the time he was born and he will soon be 4 months old.

Seth is pretty much on a routine now, he has been sleeping thru the night (that hasen't really been an issue) he takes his last feeding at about 10:00pm and he wakes up between

6:00 -7:00am. He then takes another feeding, goes caca and then goes back to sleep till about 9:30am. I usually go back to sleep with him and then when he wakes up again, we usually get ready to head out to the office. I work until about 4:00pm and then we come back home. I take him a bath between 5:00 -6:00pm, he feeds again and then he plays for a couple of hours and then he's out for the night.

I must say Seth is really an awesome baby. He is sooo laid back and has an incredible little personality that you just gotta love and he is getting cuter by the minute. His next Doctor's appointment is scheduled for Dec 11. (Four month visit and YES he will be getting more shots) Yikes !!! Poor Baby.

That's all for now in the Bosch household, until then BE GOD'S ALWAYS, PEACE

Cousins Bonding

2007-11-18T20:22:00.001-08:00

YEP: HERE THEY ARE TWO OF MY FAVORITE LITTLE GUYS IN THE WORLD !!!

COUSINS BONDING WITH ONE ANOTHER -

PRICELESS !!!

Too Cute Not to Share

2007-11-12T15:59:00.001-08:00

Daddy & Seth Chillin out
during the weekend !

A Picture of Seth's Brother & Sister

2007-11-12T15:50:00.001-08:00

These are some pictures of Seth's Biological Brother and half sister (same mother different father). Can you see the resemblance with his brother? WOW !!! Fast forward to three years from now and there you can see Seth.

Enjoy the pictures !!!!

Pictures of Seth's Forever Family Day

2007-11-07T12:13:00.001-08:00

Seth James Bosch

2007-11-07T11:49:00.000-08:00

Today is Seth James Bosch his "FOREVER FAMILY DAY" Yippee !!!! Seth is officially & legally ours. Seth has been named a "Bosch". What an exciting day this was for our entire family. We had our celebration with Seth grandparents on his daddy's side and also with his grandma

po-po and his big brother Anthony. His final Adoption hearing took place on November 5th, 2007 at 1:30pm. Honorable Judge Daniel Monaco was the judge who signed the final adoption petition. Both Herb and I has to swear in to say the truth the whole truth and nothing but the truth. The truth is that we are now caring for Seth like I gave birth to him. We are responsible for his mental, physical & spiritual well being, we swore to take care of all of his needs and to love him. We have already fallen in love with this little guy, he has captures our hearts not only with his looks but also with his personality.

Here are some pictures of this memorable day, Enjoy !!!

Before I was Mom

2007-11-07T08:45:00.000-08:00

Before I was a Mom:

I never tripped over toys or forgot words to a lullaby. I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous. I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom: I had never been puked on. Pooped on. Chewed on. Peed on. I had complete control of my mind and my thoughts. I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom: I never held down a screaming child so doctors could do tests. Or give shots. I never looked into teary eyes and cried. I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin. I never sat up late hours at night watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom: I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put him down. I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt. I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much. I never knew that I could love someone so much. I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom: I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside my body. I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby. I didn't know that bond between a mother and her child. I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so important and happy.

Before I was a Mom -I had never gotten up in the middle of the night every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay. I had never known the warmth, the joy, the love, the heartache,the wonderment or the satisfaction of being a Mom. I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much, before I was a Mom.

I lOVE BEING A MOM - THE MOST PRECIOUS TIMES OF MY LIFE ARE WHEN I CAN LOVE UNCONDITIONALLY THE TWO MOST PRECIOUS GIFTS THAT OUR LORD HAS SENT US - OUR TWO SONS ANTHONY & SETH.

Seth's Baptism Day

2007-10-29T18:50:00.000-07:00

BAPTISM - Is a beautiful testimony of what a heart has believed and what faith has received. It's a proclamation of God's saving grace, a declaration of obedience to Christ, and a celebration of a life that has been changed.

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation, the old has gone, the new has come! "

11 CORINTHIANS 5:17

October 28, we baptized our baby boy, God Parents (my brother Javi) and Herb's sister (Janette). Our little guy was a true trooper, he behaved like a big boy and it was just a very blessed and joyous day for all of us.

Remembering Kacey

2007-10-25T20:08:00.000-07:00

IN LOVING MEMORY OF KACEY - (SETH'S BIRTH MOTHER) MAY 1983 - OCT. 25, 2007

"For you have delivered me from death and my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before God in the light of life". (Psalm 56:13)

I post this picture on Seth's blogsite tonight in memory of his birth mother. We received notice today that Seth's birthmother had an accidental death. It's been an extremely hard day for Herb and I today. I have so many mixed emotions about this young girl that was in our lives for (5) months.

So this is the women that gave birth to our son and delivered him to us. God used this young girl to give us a baby and just 2 1/2 mths after she gave birth to Seth, she is gone, gone forever.

All I can say is that her life will always be remembered through the face of our son Seth. Everytime I look into the eyes of our precious one - I will see his birth mother's face shining through. I just ask that during this time, all of you who read this blog, please keep Seth's birth mother in your prayers, may her spirit rise and may our Good Lord bring her home to eternal life.

Praying to you Lord Jesus that you have mercy on Kasey and may her spirit rest in peace forever and ever.

Early Steps Evaluation

2007-10-24T15:36:00.000-07:00

Praise God for he is always in control. This morning we were visited by an occupational therapist, a nurse and our coordinator for the early steps program. They began to immediately test and evaluate Seth. I am happy and proud to say that Seth did not qualify for the program, that is a good thing, because it means that when it comes to his motor, cognitive and social skills he scored high and passed with flying colors. Once I get the summary report back, I will post all the details, but here is what I know right now:

Social skills he scored 108 points (the highest is 115)

Motor skills he scored a 98

Cognitive skills he scored a 95

so what does this all mean - WE HAVE ONE BEAUTIFUL SMART BABY BOY !!!

THANK YOU JESUS - I am one Happy & Proud Mama !!!!

Happy Halloween

2007-10-23T12:00:00.000-07:00

Here is an Early Yummy
Halloween Treat !!!!

Enjoy the pictures
You gotta Love the smile !!!

48 hrs at the hospital

2007-10-19T22:43:00.000-07:00

Remember two months ago when I said stay tuned for the detailed blogging about the 48 hr hospital stay for the birth of Seth. Well, I think tonight I can finally put thoughts together and complete this one task.

You know the biggest challenge for me as a mom to a newborn (which is new to me because I have never had a newborn before) is time management. I guess this is the biggest challenge for all new moms, but WOW - I am having a rude awakening. Let me get on with the 48hr blog before I continue to ramble.

Here I am sitting in bed at 2:00am. Gave Seth a midnight bottle and could not go back to sleep. Let me take you back to August 6th, 2007 - We received a call from the attorney's office around 4:00pm to say that Seth BM was admitted to the hospital, she had a doctor's appointment at 2:30 that afternoon and from there they admitted her. At around 6:30pm, we received a call from the BF stated that BM was admitted and that she was feeling ok, she was walking around and that he would call us as the evening progressed.

Well sure enough, the calls came in periodically throughout the evening, around 11:00pm, Herb and I decided to try and get some sleep, as I laid my head on my pillow - I thought okay tonight is the beginning of the sleepless nights for a while, as a nervous smile came about my face and my mix emotions continued to flutter my heart. All of a sudden, at least it seemed that way, the cell phone rang, it was 12:30am, a voice on the other end (BF) says, congratulations your son was born. I could not believe it !!!! I said oh the baby was born already and he said yep and I said how is he? And he replied perfect - the baby is healthy, he was born at 11:14pm, and he weighed in at 7lbs 11 oz and was 19 1/2" long. As I took in a big breath and was silent on the phone for a fraction of a second, the BF said well are you all coming over to the hospital? My response was if it's ok with the BM and they said of course and so within a few minutes, we were all in the car and on our way to the hospital about 35 minutes away from our home.

Who went to the hospital at 1:00am? My hubbie, me, our son anthony and my mom. As we approached the parking lot of the hospital, we all got out of the car and I look from a distance and I see the BF outside walking towards us. As he approached us, he came up to me, gave me a hug and said congratulations, as he shook Herb's hand and told him the same thing. I was in complete awwhh. This was the beginning of the many ways that Jesus revealed himself to me through out the 48 hrs at the hospital. As we start walking toward the building, I look from a distance and there I see Seth BM sitting outside in a wheelchair smoking a cigarette. I was pretty shocked at that but what can you do. I approached the BM and said how are you feeling? and she smiled and said just like I just gave birth. It was a bit strange but the BF said well when you guys are ready, just go through those doors to the second floor and the nurse station are already expecting your arrival. I walked with Herb and the rest of the family towards those doors calmly but my mind was jolting, I could not get to our son fast enough. We finally made it to the nurse's station and I told them that we were the adopted parents for the (baby- leaving out last name for confidentiality), they called the head nurse in charge. As we waited for the head nurse, our other son Anthony points out to me this sign looking straight at us that reads

"WHEN GOD NEEDS SOMETHING DONE, HE SENDS A BABY AND THEN WAITS" Wow ! What an affirmation that was for me that I was right where I was meant to be in my life. It seemed for that precise moment, all my struggles with my life, our finances, my infertility, our shortcomings in our marriage, time just seemed to stop and I knew that MY GOD was in control. As my thoughts and emotions began to unravel, my attention then turned to the head nurse. She introduced herself and said congratulations, then those worrying words "Can I speak to you folks for a minute by yourselves? Of course, my first thought was Ok there is something wrong with the baby. She takes us into this room and says the baby is perfectly healthy, but I do need to talk to you about something, as I took a breath, she advised I know that you all were expecting to stay in a hospital room with the baby but we have no rooms available, and I said "Oh my goodness, don't even worry about that, it's ok just take us to see our baby". She smiled and said the baby was put in a special nursery for special care, not because there is anything wrong with him but just because we are short staffed and we had to put all the babies together in one nursery. I said to her again, that is fine - just take us to see our son. She then escorted Herb and I to the nursery and introduced us to the nurse in charge at the nursery, she was so pleasant. She said congratulations and she picked up our son and handed him over to me. I can't tell you the emotions that I was feeling, when I first held him in my arms. I could not believe what our amazing God had orchestrated. Here I am, a women who struggled year after year trying to get pregnant and not being able to conceive, going to doctor's and never getting an answer as to why I could not conceive, then we finally move the west coast, taking my struggle to an infertility doctor, sharing my story with him, we try Invitro fertilization - after taking many hormone pills, medicine and shots it finally worked. I finally got pregnant, only to lose the baby 7 1/2 mths later, that was in 2003, fast forward almost 4 yrs later to the exact date and I am holding our newborn baby in my arms., People there is a God and he is real and he comes alive in your life if you seek him with all your heart, mind and soul .

Going back to the nursery room, Herb was standing next to me in aww. He was so happy too. The nurse set us up in a corner there, by this time it was already almost 3:30am. I sat in a rocking chair and fed, and held our new baby boy proudly in my arms. Giving God all the glory and honor for the work he completed.

I will pick up on what happened the next morning at the hospital soon.

First Meeting with Early Steps

2007-10-17T08:22:00.001-07:00

On Seth's first month visit with his pediatrician, she evaluated Seth and informed us that she would like for him to begin receiving Occupational Therapy. She advised that Seth left side of his head was more flat than his right and that OT would be good for him now at such an eraly stage. So without further due, through the help of my sister and her contacts, I contacted Early Steps Program. This is a state funded program that helps any child under the age of three to receive any type of therapy that could be needed. This morning Seth had his first meeting with the Coordinator of Early Steps. She was a very nice lady we went over all the paper work and she explained how the program works and what will happen during our follow up meeting. It was very positive and his next meeting will be on Oct. 24 - Seth will meet with our coordinator, an OT and a nurse. He will undergo a series a test for coordination, mobility, auditory and much more. I will keep everyone posted as to what happens. Please keep us in your prayers.

Thank you and have a very blessed Day.

A weekend with Madrina

2007-10-17T07:27:00.001-07:00

This past weekend Seth spent most of his weekend with his Madrina(God Mother)in the East Coast. We went have him measured for his Christening outfit. He looked too cute. Among looking cute, he began a cough on Friday night and come Sunday he was just not feeling good with his little cold. He is hanging in there but passed the cold off to his Mama and I took it gladly for him. Anyways here are some pictures of this weekend. Enjoy !!!

Seth in Deep Thought

2007-10-16T10:56:00.001-07:00

Hmm! Let me think about this do I stay with Mama or do I go with Ayi ???? Na - I think I will stay with my Mama ....

All about Adoption

2007-10-11T20:00:00.000-07:00

This is a wonderful synopsis on adoption that I came across. I hope that you enjoy it as much I did when reading it.

Teacher Debbie Moon's first graders were discussing a picture of a family. One little boy in the picture had a different hair color than the other members. One of her students suggested that he was adopted. A little girl said, "I know all about adoption, I was adopted." "What does it mean to be adopted?", asked another child. "It means", said the girl, "that you grew in your mommy's heart instead ofher tummy!"

Yep and that is what we will tell Seth when it's time.

More Pictures

2007-10-11T07:28:00.000-07:00

Just for you Ayi - Eat your heart out !!!!

2nd Month Doctor's Visit

2007-10-09T18:39:00.000-07:00

October 6 - Seth turned 2 months old. Wow! I can't believe it has been already two months since we recived the call from the BP that our son was being born. As we rushed out the door at 12:30pm and hurried to the hospital to hold our miracle baby in our arms. What a miracle. Our hopes and dreams had finally become a reality. As I got to hold our precious son, as the nurse turned to us and said congratulations - you have a beautiful healthy baby boy! Those words were music to my ears and I can still hear it echoing in my brain. Oh How blessed we are.

Today October 10 - we took our baby Seth to the doctor for his (2) month check-up. These were the findings. Seth has a little dimple looking thing right under his tail bone. So we thought it could be a part of spinabifida. We took him to get an ultrasound on Sept. 17 - and we found out today that the ultrasound and exrays that were done on his spine and the dimple came back normal. All the test were negative and his doctor says that is just a dimple. Thank God for he has reminded us once again that he is God and that when we trust whole heartily that everything works for his glory.

Also Baby Seth is now weighing in at 11 lbs 9 oz and he is 23' long. He is 50 percentile in weight and 50 percentile in height. Not for nothing but he is just scrumptious. I am head over heels with our baby boy.

Thank You Jesus !!!!

Be Watching out for Seth Baptism scheduled for October 28.

Seth's first feeding

2007-10-03T09:45:00.000-07:00

Today (October 3) I finally gave Seth his first dose of Rice Cereal. I would say YES that he liked it very much. He drank 6 oz of formula and half of a teaspoon of Cereal in 15 minutes and I have pictures to prove how much he liked it. Check it out !!!!

I Love This Little Guy

2007-10-02T05:14:00.001-07:00

I am just in love with this little guy. How can someone fall in love in such little time. Ask God this question? It's simple - says the Lord "It's the same love that I have Loved you with" Love with all your heart, mind and soul. I do Lord, I do. Thank You !

Update On Seth

2007-10-01T07:54:00.001-07:00

Seth finally had his last post placement on Sept. 28th. His Social worker came to our house and completed the report. We are expecting to have the final adoption hearing for some time in Dec. That will be the day that Seth will be forever ours. I cannot wait until that day comes. Seth has brought so much happiness in our lives. Anthony always talks to him and cannot wait until he becomes older so they can play together. Seth is Anthony's little toy among other things, he loves to walk into the Publix were he works so that he can show off his little brother. When it comes to Herbie - Everytime that Seth smiles at Herb - Herb says stop smiling at me because you are going to make me fall in love with you. How precious. And me, well I'm just in Awwhh with his presence. I find myself asking the Lord over and over again "What have I done to deserve such a beatiful gift? " Again - we are so blessed, God is faithful all the time.

A Bible Reveleation

2007-09-19T07:54:00.000-07:00

A Bible Revelation that led us to our son Seth James:

Let me start by saying how Herb and I chose the name Seth James. It was through a movie called City Of Angels with Nicholas Cage: Nicholas Cage played the role of an angel named Seth. It was a great movie and Herb and I really liked the name.

During our adoption process - we figured if it were a boy we would name him Seth. Later through scripture and prayer, the Lord revealed to me why he had placed the name Seth in our hearts. Read below:

The Bible does not say that Seth was Adam and Eve’s first child, or even first son, after Abel was killed. Rather, it states that Seth was born as a “replacement” for Abel. Genesis chapter 5 traces the genealogy of Seth. Prior to his death, Abel was likely the “chosen” son that would eventually produce the Messiah (Genesis 3:15). It is in this sense that Seth “replaced” Abel.

So what does this all mean: okay let me break it down for you. Adam and Eve had two sons. One was named Abel and the other was named Cain. Cain killed Abel. After Abel's death, Eve became pregnant with another son and she named their son Seth. In Genesis 4:25, it reads that Eve states: "God has given me Seth in replacement of Abel".

Well anyone that knows us personally knows our history with the loss of our other son Baby Emmanuel. My heart tells me that YES! Seth was sent to us in replacement of our son Baby Emmanuel. And you know what the amazing part of this story is? We did not know any of this part of scripture until way after we decided to name our son Seth.

And what about "James" - his middle name became evident that the Lord wanted this name for hum after speaking to me one day while I was in the shower. As crazy as it may sound. The Lord said to me that day: "Seth's middle name will be James" after hearing the Lord's voice speak this to me. I asked for a confirmation that this indeed was coming from the Lord. Weeks after I received some documents with the BP history. Seth's grandfather's name is "James"

God speaks to us through the power of the Holy Spirit. We just have to be willing to quiet our hearts and listen.

More pictures of our Little Man

2007-09-18T08:18:00.000-07:00

The Secret Is Out

2007-09-15T17:28:00.000-07:00

Dear Fans,
I am just writing to let you all know that TODAY I received the call from head coach Cam Cameron of the Miami Dolphins. We negotiated a deal and I am starting middle line backer. They asked me to come into their corporate offices for promo pictures and this is how they came out. Enjoy !!!!!
Love, Seth James

My time finally arrived

2007-09-10T11:04:00.000-07:00

I came across this scripture reading today and I thought, Wow ! how appropiate this is for me. I waited so so long for Seth to come into our lives. With constant prayer and humility to our awesome God - he always remains faithful no matter what. It may take longer than what we expect and want but everything happens in HIS perfect timing, and to be quite honest - yes it was a very long wait to finally have our baby - but now that I get to hold Seth in my arms from moments of him being born - I would not have had it any other way. Thank You Jesus !!

Today's Scripture

“For the vision is yet for an appointed time…though it tarry, wait for it” (Habakkuk 2:3 KJV).

Today's Word

Your time is coming! The dreams and desires, the things you want to accomplish, the situations you want to see changed will happen. Just because it has taken a long time, or because you’ve tried and failed, don’t give up on those dreams. Don’t be complacent about pursuing what God has placed in your heart. I encourage you today — get your fire back! It may be taking a long time, but God is a faithful God. No matter how long it’s been, no matter how impossible it looks, if you’ll stay in faith, your time is coming. Every dream that’s in your heart, every promise that has taken root, God not only put it there, but He has every intention of bringing it to pass. Start declaring today, “My time is coming… God is working behind the scenes on my behalf… I will fulfill my destiny… I will fulfill the plan God has for my life!” As you declare and expect and wait for the appointed time, your faith will grow. Your hope will grow. And you’ll step into the destiny God has in store for you!

A Prayer for Today

Father in Heaven, I receive Your truth today. I receive Your promises today. I ask that You ignite my heart with Your holy fire so that I can pursue Your perfect plan for my life. Make my thoughts and words agreeable to Your will. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

How Seth Became Ours

2007-08-27T09:51:00.001-07:00

So how did our family end up with a precious domestic baby boy when we weren't even looking for it? Let me share with you about that Awesome God we serve and how things always work out always for the good of the Lord.

As many of you may know, we are in the process of adopting internationally. This is a very long and treacherous process. We are pretty much on standby until we are called that we have been matched up with our baby girl. Until then, all we can do is wait. It's been about 11mths since we began this process but my hubbie and I have remained faithful in knowing that God's timing is indeed perfect, and this was affirmed to us by our "miracle baby" Seth.

In this blog, I will not be using the real names of the people involved as to keep their privacy. I was approached by a women who used to work in the same office building were we had our office. This women, we will call her "Jill" knew that we were in the waiting process for a baby girl internationally. Jill approached me one day and asked if Herb and I would be interested in adopting a baby domestically?

Before I go any further, let me just say that Herb and I were not interested in adoption period. The Lord has used orphans around the world to touch our hearts. One orphan that God used was now my beautiful nephew "Kai" - Kai came home from China alittle over a year ago and blessed our lives incredibly. He was the beggining of the adoption world in our family. He was the one who soften our hearts to even consider adoption, after meeting and seeing how much you can love a little person without giving birth to them, both Herb and I realized that the Lord was very much leading our lives toward adoption and wanting to bless us tremendously.

Going back to our "miracle baby" Seth - after "Jill" approached us and asked the question, were we interested in adopting a newborn. My first thought was "wow" We would finally have a baby, but yet my heart was on the lookout guarding itself from a reoccurence of pain and sorrow. I inquired about who the BP (Birth Parents) were and what their history was. "Jill told me that the BP were related to her by marriage. It was a young couple, BD (Birth dad) is 31ys old and BM (Birth mom) is 24yrs old. Seth's BP come from a disfunctional background. The BP were pretty much homeless when we came into the picture and finacially they could not keep the baby. I told her that I would discuss this with Herb and I would get back to her. In reality, what I really wanted to do was PRAY ABOUT THIS. I did mention it to Herb and he almost instantly said YES, let's do this. I said to Herb - you know as much as we want a baby, we need to invite the Lord into this situation because maybe this is not what HE wants and it will turn out to be a nightmare. I knew deep within my heart that if this was coming from the Lord, that all would be well but if not this would be a disaster.

So, we both prayed and prayed about this domestic adoption. I said Lord if this is not your will for us, I pray that you remove it from our lives. You have given me much peace about not being able to get pregnant and I just want to live out your will for my life. Weeks went by and I just keeping being at peace with this adoption. So, I approached "Jill" one day and I said "ok - we will accept this adoption if the BP are serious about this". She told me okay that she would try and reach them and let us know.

About a month or so went by, we never heard anything from anyone, meanwhile we kept praying for the Lord's will to be done. I approached "Jill" and said to her - "well have you spoken to the BP about this baby, and she said Yes - but they are going to try and keep the baby. I said "ok" no problem. There was no emotion on my end because I was trying to guard my heart and leave it to GOD. When I got that answer from "Jill" I figured that was God's answer. So, we went on with our lives. This was around May 2007, the BM was around 6mths pregnant by this time.

So, April 30 - May 4th, 2007, our family had planned to go on the "Music Boat". It is a Christian Cruise with over 16 Christian bands and over 40 concerts through out the week. The boat was sailing to Jamaica. The day before we are scheduled to leave on this cruise. I get a call from "Jill" stating that the BM has just been arrested for writing bad checks and for sure they could not keep the baby.

Upon going to jail, corrections had taken her to the hospital to confirm that she was pregnant. She was immediately placed on bed rest because she had "Placenta Previa" and this could cause her to go into premature labor. The BM wanted to make contact with us to let us know that they were definetly now not keeping the baby. As this just put frosting on the cake when it came to their financial burden.

Florida Law states that if a women gives birth in a correctional facility - the baby automatically goes to foster care, unless there is a private adoption taking place and I guess the BM knew that and she wanted to be sure that her baby did not end up in foster care. After receiving the call from "Jill" - and she confirmed that this was a go, I immediately spoke to Herb and we contact our attorney. The attorney had advised that as long as we had our paperwork in order, if she did go into premature labor - the baby would not go into the system because a private adoption would already be in place. So basically, we were on a time table.

On top of all of this the BP did not live her locally, they were living near Gainsville. So it was going to make things alittle harder for the attorney to have them sign off on paperwork being that they lived far away.

So, the Lord continued to move mountains in this adoption. Everyday that went by, HE just keeped confirming and affirming that this is what HE wanted for us.

Once we got all the paperwork in order, we had to sign a contract. Florida Law states that the adoptive parents are responsible for paying any expenses to make sure that the baby is in a safe enviroment. So we had to pay for their living expenses, food and clothing. When I say that this couple had nothing, they literally have nothing. They were living in a tent at a campsite with some friends.

Eventually, the BM got out of jail - she was sentenced to (6) mths house arrest w/probation supervision and weekly drug testing. (Another known blessing) because if she was out an about in the streets, who knows what she would have been doing while pregant. Herb and I relocated them and put them up to live in those weekly motels. Their expenses have to be paid until (1) month after the baby is born, which will be Sept. 6th. Of course, all expenses have been paid through the attorney and then forward to them.

Once they arrived locally, the BM immediately received medical attention - all her medical records were forwarded to us and we have a good solid background for Seth, which is really important. All drug testing that was done on her came back negative, HIV Test came back negative and considering her circumstances, she remains pretty healthy.

Going back to the Christian Cruise we were on, the Lord really spoke to my heart during that week, thru devotions, praise and worship and even guest speakers. One of the first people that I ran into on that cruise was the president of the James Fund, and this is what my eyes first saw after keeping this domestic adoption in prayer.

"The James Fund, partners with its customers in a shared mission: Reaching out to orphans and widows by showing them the love of our Heavenly Father". You can read more about the James Fund at http://www.jamesfund.org/

Later on that same week on the cruise, the Lord said to me "Ily it's not about you having a baby, it's about me using you to care for one of my orphans". I knew right then and their that everything was going to be ok. At that point, it no longer mattered how that baby was going to be born because it wasen't about me having a baby, it was and continues to be all about HIM allowing us to care for his orphan child.

The scripture that lead this whole adoption Journey came from James 1:27 - where it reads "What God the father considers to be pure and genuine religion is this: to take care of orphans and widows in their suffering and to keep oneself from being corrupted by the world".

In essence, Herb and I were being used not only to care for his orphan but to also care for his widow. You see the Birth Mothers parents both died from drug abuse. Seth BM was places in foster care at the age of 17yrs old, which plays a HUGE factor in why she placed her baby for adoption. She told me that she was in foster care and it was horrible and she would never ever want any of her children to end up there.

You know, Herb and I met with the BP several times and one of the things that I told her is that I respected her for making the ultimate sacrifice of placing her baby for adoption. Most girls her age would have chosen the easy way out (Abortion) but she loved this baby so much, that she carried him for 9mths and then gave him to another mother to raise. That my friends is the ultimate sacrifice. I pray that the Lord guide Seth's birth parents, to protect them and help them find their way. Herb and I will forever be grateful for the gift that these BP gave us and never will their be a day that goes on without a prayer for both of them.

The next blog will be the emotional 48 Hrs at the hospital upon Seth being born.

Last Night's Adventure

2007-08-23T12:00:00.001-07:00

Last Night was the funniest thing ever. But before I get into what happened, let me tell you how Seth's progress is going. We were having some problems with eating and the formula he was on. He is currently on Enfamil Lipil with Iron. Well, it appeared that he was straining to do a bowel for a couple of days and it would seem that he was having stomach pains. He was very gassy and sometimes appeared to even have some colic. After speaking to his doctor, they advised to keep him on the same formula and just increase his frequency of feeding. I had him initially on a four hour schedule but now during the day he is waking up every 2.5 - 3.0 to eat and is eating now 3-4 oz depending on his hunger, this change was much better for him, also we made the hole in the nipple alittle bigger (Seth adjusted to this nipple very well and now he has mastered it). He has much less gas, he is now going to the bathroom regulary and hardly any stomach pains. And YES! Seth is still sleeping through the night, which leads me to share last night's adventure. This is what happened, Herb gave him a feeding at 9:30pm, he drank 4.0 oz and was pretty alert for a couple of hours. I figured I would give him a feeding at midnight and he would be out for the night. At about 10 minutes to midnight, I decided to bath him (which by the way he loves to the extent that he falls asleep in the bath). So I prepared the tub, undressed him and began to pour the warm water on him, he immediately fell asleep, about 10 seconds later, I see and hear a bubble in the water, when I look - there was caca everywhere. I figured quite rapidly that Seth is a multi tasker - he sleeps, bathes and does caca all at the same time. I could not believe it. I immediately cleaned up the water, finished his bath, put on his PJ's and gave him a bottle. Seth slept from about midnight until a quarter to six in the morning. We are very blessed as he is a great sleeper. Below are pictures that I took this morning of him as he went to his happy place on his swing. Have a beautiful day !!

Love,

A proud and happy Mama

Baby Shower

2007-08-21T03:14:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of the baby shower that our extended church family had for us.

Our church family had been with us during the time of sorrow when we lost our son baby Emmanuel so now that the Lord had given us another son - everyone is just overwhelmed with God's goodness and Mercy.

Thank You Jesus !!!!

What's new with Seth James

2007-08-21T02:51:00.000-07:00

Well my friends - Monday August 20th at 11:14pm made two weeks already that our son Seth James was born. It's hard to believe that two weeks ago we were receiving a call at about midnight to say that our son had been born and for us to head to the hospital.

Update on Seth: Friday August 17th - Seth had his 2nd week appointment with his pediatrician, it was a weight check, pretty much to be sure that he was gaining weight. When Seth was born he weighed 7 lbs 11.6 oz, well within those couple of days in the hospital, he lost 5 oz, he was 7 lbs 6 oz. On Friday Aug 17th - he had gained 7 oz within 7 days (yep an ounce a day). As of Friday his weight was 7 lbs 13 oz and he grew 1/2". Seth's next appointment to the doctor will not be until about a month, were he will then get his first vaccination shots. All in all - Seth seems to be doing good, he is always getting smothered with kisses by his mama and the rest of the family. He is yummy, yummy, yummy !!!

Pictures of our cuddle bug on Day 9

2007-08-16T07:22:00.000-07:00

Seth James sound asleep

This was taken bright and early this morning

(Po-Po comes in before she goes to work to do
her daily routine with him) Kissin him all up

This is the very cool cradle swing I was talking about. Given to Seth by his cousins Kristy & Alex

Big Brother assembling the cradle swing for him

Seth's new Toy !!! Yep he is in heaven

Awww !!! Daddy and Seth taking a power nap after a full day at work.

BIG Man and Little Man bonding with one another.

Day 9 Since Seth Was Born

2007-08-15T20:54:00.000-07:00

Today was a pretty laid back day. Both Seth and I were very tired this morning, so we slept in an woke up around 10:30am. After doing the usual, feeding Seth and laying him near a window so he can get some sun, there was a knock on the door and to my surprise it was UPS delivering a very big box for us. Thank goodness Anthony was home (my BIG man), it was the Rainforest Cradle Swing that was bought by our niece and hubbie and sent to us via UPS. Being very excited about this, I had Anthony almost immediately, assemble it and before we knew it, the swing was assembled and their was Seth, swinging away enjoying every minute of it. It is a very cool swing, it has lots of cool colors and the best thing about it, is that it reclines and Seth can actually sleep in it. It is very practical and cute, Thank you Kristy & Alex for that wonderful gift.

So let's see what else happened today, oh yeh !!! I get a call from my hubbie around 1:00pm, he was ectastic to inform me that he took the AC CONTRACTORS TEST to become a licensed contractor in the state of Florida, and he passed the test (which by the way he passed with flying colors - yes Herbie got an 80%). So I am happy to publicly say that we will be expanding our business to also include air conditioning work. Honey, I am very proud of your hard work, your persistency, your achievement, and most of all your loyalty to your family. Always, trying hard to give your family the very best and you do, and I am very thankful for that and more. Thank you baby.

Okay and last but not least, I must share this because it was the funniest thing ever! Although, I don't have any pictures to prove this but it was too funny not to share. This evening, I was getting ready to take Seth a bath. He was asleep, so I prepared his tub, undressed him, and began to bath him, Can you imagine that this little guy slept right thru his bath. Literally, I would pour the warm water gently over his body and his little head, and this child did not wake up. Seth did not open up his eyes not once. I was blown away at how much of a deep sleeper he is. We are absolutely and totally blessed. After his bath, I massaged him with baby lotion all over, put on his PJ's and fed him. He is now drinking about 2 1/2 - 3 oz of formula. He is on a 4 hour schedule and pretty much sleeps all night. Did I mention how very blessed we are?

Tommorrow, I will post pictures of his cradle swings and share more pictures of our little man. Until then have a blessed and beautiful day, Peace !

The Gift We Could Not Give Eachother

2007-08-14T20:47:00.000-07:00

I came across the Lyrics of this song and I just fell over. I could not believe that they was a song that pretty much describes our domestic adoption. Here are the Lyrics. I am on the hunt to find the song to add to Seth's blogsite.

The Gift We Could Not Give Each Other
Words and Music by Michael Mclean

When she was a little girl she held her dolls like children. Dreaming of the day when she'd have babies of her own. Now those dolls lie on a shelf as lifeless as the dreams she dreamed. It's become the deepest ache her heart has ever known.There's a man who's trying his best to comfort her with roses.Telling her he'll find a way to make their dreams come true. He's been saying this for years, but now his tears reveal the truth. In his heart he fears there's nothing else that they can do. Then a gift is given, a phone call straight from heaven. There's a child that's nearly due that a young girl's giving you. She gave more than just one life when she makes of this man and wife a father and a mother. She gives the gift they could not give each other. More than we could ever know this couple thanks the heavens. Every time they hold their child, they feel they hold the world. Words will never be enough to share the way the family feels. From deep inside their hearts they want to tell that girl: Not a day is ever through till we've thanked the Lord for you. Your sweetness lingers near in our hearts and thoughts and prayers. You gave more than just one life when you made of this man and wife, a Father and a Mother.When you gave the gift we could not give each other. You have changed our lives forever. Only you and God above could give this gift of love we could not give eachother.

Who, What and When did this happen

2007-08-14T10:06:00.000-07:00

This is our story about Seth James.

After pretty much being infertile for it seems like forever, my hubbie and I decided to try Invitro Fertilization back in 2003. Running a 50-50 chance that I could get pregnant, I did. We were over the moon with happiness. Into the fourth month of my pregnancy, we began to endure complications as it seemed that there was a problem with the baby.

It turned out after carrying the baby for 7 1/2 months, I had to give birth to our stillborn son, Baby Emmanuel. It was a very long journey for me my hubbie and pretty much the entire family. After struggling with infertility, I finally get pregnant to only lose the baby 7 1/2 mths in the womb.

But our faithful God and his infinite plan always carried me through.

Today August 14th, 2006 - I proudly annouce the birth of our new adopted son Seth James. Seth came into this world on August 6th, weighing 7 lbs 11.6 oz and 19 1/2" long.

This domestic adoption was very emotional, again our faith carried us through day in and day out. In the next few post I will go into detail about what this domestic adoption entailed and how life is for us now that our little man is home.

I love you Lord more than the whole world and back. Thank you for being my heavenly father, my source of srength and my rock.