Confessions of a Mother Warrior

Posted: January 4, 2012 in Uncategorized

my Confessions
Current mood:  thankful

Category: Life

8/08
It’s been over a month since you’ve been in the hospital & I decided to do this little messages to you just to when you’re older you can read it.  So it’s random but the first thing I want to say is that you’re just like Daddy how you wrinkle your forehead when something bothers you.  Bc of you I love him more & bc of him, I love you more.  It’s a beautiful thing really hard to put into words…

12/08
Sofie it’s been almost 5 months & I totally forgot I did this for you.  You are so delicious mama.  I love holding you girl even though you kill my back.  You are my snuggle bunny!  You love putting your face directly into my elbow crease or my arm pit, it’s hilarious.  You’re around 13lbs & getting into size 2 diapers woo mama!  This morning you were so…funny! You’re always the happiest in the morning, maybe a morning person like mama? Anyhow, you were naked w/ pamper only & started kicking both feet down hard like almost jumping & laughing…you’re so adorable.  I call you my “Squirt” from Finding Nemo.  Anyway, I’ll definitely try to write more.  I know I have to video & take more pictures.  O & you’re also discovering your hands so everything’s going in your mouth! And you pull your hair too, but that actually looks cute bc you put your hands behind your head & it looks like your getting sun lol.  I could write about you all day but I’m getting tired mama & I have to pump 1 last time for you.  My milk is coming out less & Daddy will kill me if we have to use formula.  He’s on this super healthy, organic, vegetarian trip!  I love you Sofia MWA!

12/26/08
Hey So-fuzz we’re at Grammy Lily’s house & this morning you’ve been on a roll!  Smiling & laughing & making your sassy faces.  Today was your 1st day @ the park.  You squinted bc it was super sunny, a beautiful day, but you did like the dancing fountain waters & we took a picture.  You’re so delicious mama.  You make Grammy & GG so very happy.  Something about infants that I never knew… it’s like the minute you’re in someone’s presence you bring so much automatic joy & peace.  Babies are really special that way.  Man, I was so shielded from this somehow in my busy life.  So glad I have the opportunity & privilege of experiencing this now.  Grammy loves you so much, you laughed with her big time. O & by mistake Luna didn’t know you were under a blanket & decided to pounce onto the sofa while you were sleeping on it, but she stepped on your legs & you didn’t even wake up.  Bella also loves to stare at you, protect you, but when you make sudden movements she freaks out ha ha. Love u lil one PS U are a “supported sitter” now super exciting! Love, Mommy

1/09
Sofie!  Today for the 1st time ever I caught you fully extending your arms & reaching for the toys dangling above you….I was so proud!  I AM so proud of you mama!  You also had your very 1st spoon of Organic Brown Rice Cereal…so exciting!  You just rolled it around in your mouth & spit it out but it was so much fun feeding you & watching you try something new.  Now you’re getting therapy 5x’s a week & I’m super siked bc I see it truly working.  Anyway, lately you’re going through a phase where I just blow a kiss at you & you smile, it’s the best! Also the other day Daddy ordered a chicken pita & you started laughing for no reason so we started saying “chicken pita” & you’d crack up.  Then Grammy Lily called you a “taco” & you started crying! ha ha You’re such a trip mama I love you girl!  You turn 6 months on Sat & I bought you “Your Baby Can Read” videos bc you are going to be a genius I know it! I love you! MWA

03/09

Sofia my little bunny!  You really are growing up so fast.  You are so lovely lately.  I call you “Happy Baby.”  You’re always smiling & especially at the opposite sex.  Flirty flirty, you better watch it lady!  Lately you are doing “La manito” slowly, but surely & you’ve finally sat up all by yourself this week.  You’re taking about 10-30cc’s of the bottle and coming along great honey.  We love you so much! Our little “mountain climber.”  You love standing & actually climbing up our bodies.  You’ve also learned this funny “ready-set-go” position that looks like you’re about to take off, but you don’t go anywhere! ha ha!  You’ve started trying to eat your feet & get into spontaneous heel stretches especially while eating.  You’re so funny Sof!  Also your hair is growing in so beautiful mama.  We trimmed it for the first time & I’ll admit I was a lil scared. Grammy did it & it turned out gorgeous! Til next time, Daddy’s rushing me! MWA! 05/09
Sofie my lil Wee Wee!  It’s seems every time I write you have a new nickname!  One nurse even calls you “Smiley” bc you laugh so much.  Honey, God has answered my prayers in such a big & “not in my order” way.  Months ago I wrote a list of your conditions & in order of what I wanted Him to heal first.  The 1st thing I wrote was “Smiling.”  You hadn’t smiled much back then & I figured however long this healing took, I just wanted you to be happy….and boy has God come through.  Many times I call you “Happy Baby” & you start jumping down on me, it’s so adorable.  You are 90% of the time joyful except for when you’re sleepy, or want to be held in the middle of the night or at occupational therapy w/ Maria.  Other than that your Happy Baby now discovering your tongue & looking like a lil snake at times =)  You still love pulling & trying to eat my hair & you laugh the hardest w/ Daddy & one time really loud w/ Tia Lolo.  You said you’re 1st word this month, “Muh muh” then “Ta ta.”  It’s official you’re going to be a Mommy’s girl!  You have a surprisingly low voice.  It sounds sexy & raspy uh ohhh watch out people!  You are 9 months 1/2, 13 1/2lbs, creeping & crawling everywhere, supported standing, independently playing & you finally passed all parts of your swallow study & you’re eating sweet potatoes & carrots next! I cut your bangs for the 1st time this month myself & it was scary, but I did it =) You have also fallen in love w/ Isabel Mima’s friend.  She’s like an Abuela to you too. You got a new speech therapist you like & I learned to always trust my gut & seek 2nd opinions. You had a blast at Grammy’s park & I’m already planning your 1st bday =) Time really flies mama. You’re taking heart meds only 3x’s a week & you’re completely OFF all reflux medication. Now the last issue is your G-tube & we are increasing feeding to 4oz & trying to fatten you up so maybe by 2010 it’ll be out.  That’s my wish for you mama.  Other than that Daddy & I love you so much.  He said “She is so awesome!” the other day & I was like “You’re right! We have an awesome, awesome daughter!” I’m so excited for the future mama.  I keep telling Daddy I’m going to take you on a Disney cruise & he gets mad, but no matter what we’re going! Finished pumping! Chat soon MWA delicious! Sofi “Little So-fee” it’s been so long & as usual you’re up to a lot.  We finally moved & you love our new apartment.  You often lie down in the middle of the floor & just bask in glee =) You also love all the windows & light that comes in the house.  You’ve started eating double since we moved in.  You’re at about 2 oz my mouth & 13 spoons of Sweet Potato.  Baby steps for feeding, but certainly not for your body.  You’re learning to run & stronger than ever. You climb on & off the bed so fast & you randomly get into your “B-gurl pose” aka Pilates position balancing on your head & experimenting with your body weight, lifting a leg or hand or both hands!   Your favorite word is definitely “Apple!”  You say about 15 real words now & your doing so many gestures from the videos! You dance to Head, Shoulders Knees & Toes & stay low on your toes, open & closing hands for Twinkle, Twinkle, but your favorite song is Mommy’s original song with acapella clapping & snapping “Go Sofie Go Sofie” & off you go busting a move swinging around, raising a shoulder & clapping.  Occasionally you’ll spin around & do like a 1 leg stomp or bounce down lol It’s just awesome! You are really awesome.  You are smart & persistent.  Now from the bed you’re trying to sneak up to the dresser.  You’ve taken 2 bad falls & that is it for me! No more monkeys jumping on my bed.  Daddy & I are doing much better, closer to God in this place.  He’s really using this apartment for His work.  I’ll explain one day =) We had an ER scare where you caught Bronchiolitis/Pneumonia.  From then on I do “the kidnapping” (wrapping you completely from head to toe with a big “covijeta”) whenever we go out.  Everything is getting better mama.  I’m praying before your 5th b-day you are tube free! O & before I forget you got the worst rash bc of the antibiotics they sent you.  You were doing a funny hump dance on us & touching your pipi a lot poor thing.  It’s almost gone & we’ve been doing Oatmeal baths & Aveeno.  You have an awesome personality, super funny & happy & flirty too!  You really love me & Dada as you call us. PS I finally got my period Uhhh….now we really gotta be careful we don’t give you a sibling!

05/09
Sofie my lil Wee Wee!  It’s seems every time I write you have a new nickname!  One nurse even calls you “Smiley” bc you laugh so much.  Honey, God has answered my prayers in such a big & “not in my order” way.  Months ago I wrote a list of your conditions & in order of what I wanted Him to heal first.  The 1st thing I wrote was “Smiling.”  You hadn’t smiled much back then & I figured however long this healing took, I just wanted you to be happy….and boy has God come through.  Many times I call you “Happy Baby” & you start jumping down on me, it’s so adorable.  You are 90% of the time joyful except for when you’re sleepy, or want to be held in the middle of the night or at occupational therapy w/ Maria. Other than that your Happy Baby now discovering your tongue & looking like a lil snake at times =)  You still love pulling & trying to eat my hair & you laugh the hardest w/ Daddy & one time really loud w/ Tia Lolo.  You said you’re 1st word this month, “Muh muh” then “Ta ta.”  It’s official you’re going to be a Mommy’s girl!  You have a surprisingly low voice.  It sounds sexy & raspy uh ohhh watch out people!  You are 9 months 1/2, 13 1/2lbs, creeping & crawling everywhere, supported standing, independently playing & you finally passed all parts of your swallow study & you’re eating sweet potatoes & carrots next! I cut your bangs for the 1st time this month myself & it was scary, but I did it =) You have also fallen in love w/ Isabel Mima’s friend.  She’s like an Abuela to you too. You got a new speech therapist you like & I learned to always trust my gut & seek 2nd opinions. You had a blast at Grammy’s park & I’m already planning your 1st bday =) Time really flies mama. You’re taking heart meds only 3x’s a week & you’re completely OFF all reflux medication. Now the last issue is your G-tube & we are increasing feeding to 4oz & trying to fatten you up so maybe by 2010 it’ll be out.  That’s my wish for you mama.  Other than that Daddy & I love you so much.  He said “She is so awesome!” the other day & I was like “You’re right! We have an awesome awesome daughter!” I’m so excited for the future mama.  I keep telling Daddy I’m going to take you on a Disney cruise & he gets mad, but no matter what we’re going! Finished pumping! Chat soon MWA delicious!

PS I finnally got my period Uhhh….now we really gotta be careful we don’t give you a sibling!

08/09

Toddler SOFIA! You officially turned 1 almost a month ago.  SO much to share! For starts, there’s something new every day! You are such a people person Sofie! You love to go out & see people & places.  You’re more vocal now just saying random stuff but when you’re mad it’s always “Yaya” (that’s me!) that never fails.  You’ve taken 4 steps! And often stand by yourself for long periods.  You just need a little more confidence & you’ll be walking in no time!  You crawl everywhere & open drawers etc.  We’ve already started baby proofing!  You got your 1st 2 teeth at the same time.  The front, bottom ones.  They came in perfectly straight like little chiclettes & to our surprise a big front tooth.  That’s 3!  Now you presently have another canine that just broke through & the other front tooth is coming!  Bc of that you’ve had a lil diarrhea & some vomiting so we started you back in reflux med.  You got a little cold after your 1st bday party that was quite a success.  It was a Polka dot Minnie Party & you were the Tutu Minnie Princess with crown & all & let’s not forget the double outfit change complete with SASsy Heads for each!  The party was overwhelming for Mommy but fun for you.  You cried at first with the shock of people swarming into you, but you got over it. For me, it was like a wedding & I learned many things for your future bday’s.  You got a great mix of clothes, toys, pampers & gift cards.  You also got your 1st bracelet with your name on it in white gold.  You look adorable in it!  So you weigh 16lbs & you’re 25inches.  We’re doing speech therapy twice a week with Maritza & your loving her.  We’re working on feeding w/w your favorite Bananas & Mango & animal sounds.  Other therapies are great as well.  Not bc you’re my daughter, but you really shine like a light.  Even amongst other children you just stand out & make the room more joyful.  I pray this joy never leaves you & I believe it comes from the Lord.  Lately you’ve become a GG & Daddy’s girl crying when they walk by or leave you.  It’s cute!  You also have been having stinky morning breath that I love.  You sometimes bite my leg bc you’re teething & it’s so adorable, hasn’t hurt yet! Bc of you I started a headband business that’s going amazing.  We will be featured in a magazine this month!  I’ve sold over $100. worth & it’s been a great little side job that I work on therapeutically. I named it after you S.A.S.sy Heads.  Your taking heart meds only 2x a week now & everything else is pretty much on a follow-up basis.  The last time we went to 1 of the 3 eye Dr’s she said you did not have glaucoma & she did not see your case as progressive meaning your eyes are the way they are period, not getting any worse.  Praise the Lord mama! She doesn’t need to see you anymore she says!  SO you are about 5 lbs closer to getting on the “normal” weight scale & that’s do-able.  You took a big bite of a “pan de bono” & freaked me out the other day.  Maybe sson we’ll start with cereal puffs bc you want to eat so badly, but your teeth hurt & you tire out.  We really need God’s healing power with your feeding issues but I know in time, you’ll be eating everything!  Mommy was getting frustrated; distant from seeking God, but she’s back on track & WOW what a difference God’s Word makes!  Not just reading it daily, but believing it! Going to spend some time with Him, mama.  Write you soon!

PS Mommy got an IUD so you’re my 1 & only for now! Also you are waving “Bye bye!”

10/09

Suki Saki! That’s your Princess Sumo fighting nick name!  Well Suki I almost burst into tears bc I couldn’t find this diary & thought I had lost all these special little memories…whew!  You are now 15 months & totally completely walking.  Dr. D says your still in the beginning phases bc you walk with your hands up & out, but you’re doing excellent!  Shoe shopping has been a mission but we got you these 2 pairs of soft boots that are adorable!  The past couple of months have been rough bc we had Medicaid dropped & nursing taken away so it’s been tough.  We’ve gotten closer bc now it’s juts you & me kiddo & Daddy of course, when he’s here.  But I’ve learned a lot about you & learned little tricks to make things easier. You’re milk has been changed for more weight gain, but you don’t really like it much.  Lots of retching & vomiting has started up again, but hopefully you’ll adjust & be a big lil girl.  Your heart’s doing better.  Now down to meds only twice a week, while I just found out Mommy has a heart condition!  I’m not worried bc I know it’s all in God’s hands.  I’m too blessed to be stressed plus you’re my main concern, no worries!  Your mouth is full of teeth!  You have 2 bottom teeth now & about 4 on top!  Your hair is long enough to put in pig tails which I do often & you look delicious!  I bought you stick on earrings which I admit I must use more often =(  You’re so beautiful mama, you don’t need it.  You weigh about 17 lbs & your 25 inches.  You say about 6+ words & you’re so sociable it’s awesome.  You love going outside & meeting new people.  I’m FINALLY getting over you in the car seat & you are too!  We went to the movies with Bibi the other day & today to therapy, just us!  Today was a great day!  I felt a sense of freedom & independence in going out with you with no nurse or Daddy, even though having them is great help =)  You’re starting to wear more clothes & just overall look like a bigger girl.  You got a big girl little stroller now too & you’re wearing size 3 pampers!  You walk around Mima’s entire house & you love slamming the bathroom cabinet door & playing with the lentils in the kitchen.  Does that mean you’re going to be a vegetarian? ha ha We often roll around the play mats & you love sticking your hands inside my mouth. Gross! I know! Maybe you will be a dentist?  The thing is, you did the same thing with my eyeball & almost took it out the other day! Maybe an eye Dr.? lol  I got pics of these that are awesome!  Besides doing your hilarious impression of Abuelito Paco with your “viejita face” you’re starting to have major discovery break throughs with your mouth.  You’re babbling a lot, smacking your tongue, trying to whistle & even blowing kisses. It is THE cutest!  The funniest thing you do is like a tongue trill with your lips pooched, but the therapist says you’re doing a very advanced “R” sound.  You’re feeding area is still the struggle, but you recently had an eval by Tia Franky’s Professor & she said you have a lot of potential. IN time mama! IN time!  I started a covenant with God that I would lead 5am prayer every Fri in faith that He would heal you one day.  I know I will see this come to pass in Jesus name. There’s probably a lot more to say, but I’m seeing you sleeping in the bed & you’re drawing me in! XOXO

11/09

Heyyy So-fish!  Your nicknames always change!  Can’t believe we’re almost in Dec WOW time really flies.  SO little “Nani” (Daddy’s name for you,) let me tell you what’s new…Orthopedic says you’re walking great, no limping etc.  He said maybe later when your 10 we can do surgery if we want, we’ll see gorda.  Speaking of gorda, you’re finally on Pediasure & off Boost that was making you bar.  You’re gaining weight gradually & I’m definitely feeling it on my back!  Lately you are soooo funny!  You repeat things & absorb a lot.  Daddy’s got you saying “Uh-O!” & I’m teaching you to smile when I say “Smile!”  You wrinkle your face & nose & it’s to die for!  Your DNA is “kicking in” as my friends say bc you’re starting to DANCE for everything!  It started with the talking fish in the kitchen & you bouncing & bending your knees.  Now you move every time you hear any type of rhythm, even Twinkle Twinkle or my cell phone alarm.  And not only that, but you’re starting to shrug your shoulders & it’s uhhh so freak’n cute!  I just thought that I’m going to title every month something, maybe one of your nick names.  Another nich name you have courtesy of “Ya ya” (me) is “So-fear-a” bc you have NO fear-a! LOL YOu’re climbing on everything including self sitting on your share to eat, car seat & stroller!  You purposefully like to challenge yourself by crawling over & under things.  If there is a toy in your way, instead of going around, you trample on or over it to get through.  That is definitely a strong “I get what I want” character tactic.  You also start verbally complaining when you want your milk.  You doing about 1-2 oz by mouth, but we’ve had a break through with the spoon feeding.  Seems you like it HOT like your Abuelo Tigre.  Your top 3 favs are Sweet Potato, Carrots & Banana-Mango.  You’re doing so good in PT/OT (Physical & Occupational Therapy) that you only go once a week, but we’re doing ST (Speech Therapy) 3x’s & maybe more.  Still working things out with France’ Prof.  SO what else…You’re saying 10 words now including GA-TO which is the best.  You gained a 3rd bottom tooth & you love pushing large objects.  You push chairs, stools & the laundry basket. We OFFICIALLY baby proofed the house, but it hasn’t stopped you baby.  You’re a walking machine & have a fascination with being outside.  The other day I took you out back & let you play on the grass when suddenly I see something move right next to you & it was a tan garden snake! Ahhhh! I picked you up & sprinted inside calling Daddy, but it was too late.  We couldn’t find it & that gave me a major reality check about snakes uhhhh!  Also I bought you Piggy Paint (organic nail polish) for babies which I may paint on you right now as you sleep! BRB…OK 1 hand down, 1 to go!  It looks adorable!!! I was thinking of starting vaccinations on you soon & then get your ears pierced but Daddy is a no go.  You have so many cute earrings so we’ll see. Time for the 2nd hand!

2/10

As I reflect I realize I’m truly privileged to be a mother, your mother!

Lord give me the strength & drive to persist & PUSH (Pray Until Something Happens) YOU are able!

9/10

 

Wow!!! I can’t believe it’s been so long!  Ok so THIS is why I’ve forgotten to write…someone named SOFIA got into my nail polish baggy & decided to do a mural with my red polish on our white tile!  In the middle of my shock from discovering my little “art-eest” I dumped you into the bathtub, which you also stained, & mistakenly left my cell next to the tub.  (You drew something like a butterfly, it was pretty cool!) So in a quick second, as I’m cleaning up the floor, I go to you who’s splashing my cell phone around into the water! Oh noooo!!! So I lost my calendar with the reminders to write to you =( Anyway, this is what’s up with you category style…from head to shoulders, knees & toes!

Dermatologist~ says you hair should grow over & maybe not even have surgery! You’re hair is growing longer, but you still rip off your ponytails!  I’m convincing you to leave hair stuff on longer by saying “Que linda!” You like seeing girls with “bows” & you’re obsessed with hair.  You still sleep holding my hair & lately you’ve discovered yours & rip it off when you’re sleepy! NOT cool! You’re developing a balding patch in the front & center.  Now I’m on you like a hawk & only allowing the Te-te when it’s sleepy time. Gia calls it your “Hair-oine!” (We see Dr once a year!)

Brain~

Eye~ You had a nasty sty which they operated in your lefty July 2, 2010 & found another one inside! WOW! They zapped that one also Whew! It healed nicely, but puffs up sometimes, then shrinks again. We’re on the look-out young lady! I may opt to have your eyelid surgery sooner than later, maybe in 2011.  This is the one thing people of all ages & kids always ask about…Mommy aka “A-lee”has patience & treats them with love, but it’s annoying! lol You said Dora’s name like 100x’s after that surgery. Dada “Ke-vin” made a funny video.

Feeding~ You’re trying to eat (bite) more of our food, but you’re not chewing just yet.  You bit into my pizza the other day & you say PIZZA & PASTA, but you spit it out!  You’re a lil shark w/ all those teeth…so cute mama! You’re almost 24lbs & by Christmas you’ll be 27-ish! WOW another answered prayer! We’re starting a blended diet on you so basically integrating fruits & veggies into your belly & hopefully that appetite opens up even more!

Thyroid~ is in “perfect” condition according to Dr. Kopp! Yessss!

Heart~ You’re OFF heart med after 2 years! WOW! This happened 8/2010 Praise Jesus!

G-tube site~ You had a pretty bad rash that has lasted a while, but finally it’s getting better

Legs~ Your chunky leg looks darker & bigger so we’re having a lower body MRI next week.  Dr. Young says he thinks it’s the lymphatic system so hopefully we get an answer.

Ortho~ Seeing Ortho soon to figure out if we get you “una plantilla” lol or what.  You tippy toe a lot with your right & I stretch your foot every day.  I always stretch your leg from the hip & say GROW IN THE NAME OF JESUS!

Fun Facts~

Your new fav word is “Honey!” or “Babe!”

You can name like every freakn body part including randoms like elbow & cucu haha!

You pinch us when you don’t get your way, or do dead man tantrum lol

You have a “Corner of Sin” where you go to pull out your hair, write on the wall, or try to eat our food =)
Therapies are OT twice a week & starting w/ a new speech lady Jill soon.  You love Nancy your Early Steps teacher & I’ve seen you make huge gains with her speech & OT wise.  She taught you Shapes…OVAL & SQUARE & animals too.  You’re obsessed with COW! lol Mooo

You’re obsessed with this white lady on You tube who does the Itsy Bitsy Spider & Twinkle Twinkle

You’re starting to sing the A,B,C’s very lightly…so sweet!

You let me brush your teeth for real, but with no toothpaste yet.  You still demand PURPLE which is MY toothbrush!

You’re potty training & saying PO-TEE so cute…you do PP often & CACA we’re working on! You say CACA when you fart! And when I say “Sofi did you do caca or fart?” You blow a fart w/ your mouth!

We took you in the beach, pool, park & to see COWS!  You’re out of the bubble honey! We want you to live it up!

08/11

Hey Sofi! It feels like I haven’t written in forever! Mommy studied Life Coaching & Daddy surprised her w a new Iphone & there went all my writing reminders!  It’s mid August & you turned 3 a month ago.  We had an “udderly fabulous” COW Party for you & we’re still reaping the fruit of that blessed day.  People are so willing to give to you Sofi, to us.  We had a wonderful time & the Lord held back the rain for us. Mommy got to lead worship the next day, your real bday, what a blessing.  Mommy just became the official worship leader & it’s awesome bc I finally get to pour out all these ideas that Jesus puts in my head.  Daddy also got a promotion & is working full time with Miami Youth for Christ.  The Lord is providing for us big time, but in a very modest way, exactly what we need & a bit more of what we want for food.  We qualified for Food Stamps finally & you’re loving going grocery shopping at “Walmar”T” or Targe”T.”  You’re such a big girl now Sofi with a bit of a big attitude when things don’t go your way.  Mommy & Daddy read “To Train Up a Child” a book we will surely pass down & realize we’ve made many mistakes.  We’re now trying to discipline you & show you by example the ways of the Lord.  Unfortunately, we fall short, but we try to be the best parents for you anyway.  Lately, you like to swat us, especially me.  You hit & hit when you’re upset & it seems you don’t know how to channel your anger just yet.  I know in time, everything we’ve learned plus your maturity will come into play.  You have a little purple Dora “time-out” chair that I send you to occasionally & it helps.  Other times you will openly confess your wrongdoing & say “I cannot do dat!” Which is adorable of course!  Aside from that you’re the funniest, happiest, sassiest, girl in the room.  Everyone loves you & I’ve seen even other parents dote over you.  You are about 28lbs now & breaking Mommy’s back!  You go to ballet & love, love, love to dance.  Specifically “shaking your booty” (By the Bgees) as Daddy taught you.  You love worship music & cooking with me.  You’re becoming quite the little helper.  We’re trying to wean you off the Te-te but it’s so hard.  We tried cutting the tip off & that worked, but we went back & gave you other ones. Uhhh! We gotta cut it! LOL You still obsess over my hair, but now you actually verbalize it & request, or shall I say order, me to take my hair down. “Long Hair Please!!!” you say.  You have your own style & like to dress yourself.  It’s mainly a few outfits you chose; rainbow shorts, Dora pants, Yo Gabba Gabba PJs, this red, purple, pink satiny dress we both have that matches or your Tutus aka “Ballet Skirt.”

Health wise you’re doing awesome! You’ve had a few colds here & there, but all your lab work came out negative for any hormone or bone growth problems.  The day you did all those labs I remember you were so brave mama.  The nurse stuck you & you winced, but you kept playing with my Iphone & filled the ten tubes of blood without shedding tear.  That day I realize, my baby’s growing up.

You’re leg difference has grown slightly & we’re getting you new shoes.  I’ve asked the family to pray & I’m lifting your legs up in prayer more & more, but believing God is going to do it.  A few weeks ago you graduated from Early Steps & you did amazing!  Just another testimony that the Lord accomplished through His grace & strength working in you.  You got everything “Above Normal” except for Motor (your legs) but only because you weren’t climbing stairs switching legs or jumping with both.  You kind of do this cute gallop bc of your legs, but you’re so happy & have so much fun, you make everyone else happy & no one notices those little things.

Your heart & eyes are great & you by choice like to wear these goggles bc you like the Imagination Movers. So funny! But you only wear them once in a while for fun.  Your speech is practically right on target & your feeding is coming along.  The therapists recently chose you to do a presentation on at Miami Children’s Dan Marino Weston Center.  We were so proud bc we know that it’s because you are progressing mama.  I’m so excited for this Winter season bc you’ve gotten so mature & we’re going to have to much fun!  We’ve taken you to the Mall & “La Casa de Mickey” aka The Disney Store & it’s a blast for you.  You still love the Pool, Park & Beach & videos, but it’s amazing how much you’re speaking.  Recently, Daddy showed you a funny song from the movie Beetlejuice (Deoooo-Banana Song)& you crack up to it.  Hay Sofi we just love you so much & you’re such a smart, fun girl.  We’re at Physical & Speech & we usually go find squirrels after & see if the cows are out on the field.  Today is a rainy day, Hurricane Irene possibly coming.  We have no fear mama, just looking at what God has done leaves us breathless.  I just can’t imagine what He’s going to do.  I love you baby.  We love you!

PS: Now when you fart you say “Excuse me!” And you also like blaming your therapists for farts like Bianca & Sherice! LOL

Therapy Crew:

Ana~ Feeding

Jaime/Jeremy~ Speech

Bianca~ Physical

Sherice~ Occupational

01/12

HAPPY NEW YEAR bunny! It’s 2012 & I’m excited to be writing to you again.  I’ve decided I’m going to write to you every 3-6 months bc so much is changing so fast.  So in June of last year we got your ears pierced & you were totally a brave girl & loved your new earrings.  One day you were playing with your friend Chris from church & one of your ears got hit.  YOu got a big ball of “baby blood” & we had to take you to the hospital so they could drain it.  You love going to the hospital “for gum.”  Now recently you got your one (left) ear repeicred & have been asking me for Foofa earrings.  For Christmas Mommy & Daddy took you to see Yo Gabba Gabba & it was the best concert EVER.  Not only did you have a blast doing all the “Dancey dances” & singing the songs, but WE had a blast too.  I don’t think we’ve ever sat so close to something in our lives & it was totally worth it.  Next time I know you’ll get in stage & do “Biz’ beat of the day.”  Another huge thing that happened this past winter was you started school.  You love school & you didn’t even cry the first day!  Mommy made it to the parking lot tearless until suddenly, tears of joy came out bc I couldn’t believe you were already in school.

Here are 2 original songs of yours we sing together: Sofia’s Song: “Sofia Ali Sanchez number 3, Cow Party, birthday July 17, I love you, I love you, I love you all the time, I love you, I love you, I love you all the time, I love you in the morning, I love you in the night, I love you, I love you, I love you all the time.”

The next song (about school) After school: My name is Sofi Ali, I go to Spanish Lake, My teacher’s name is Bradley, Then Misha’s for cupcakes (our little tradition). After school, After school, I go to mimir with my Mo-mmy, After school, After school, I go to mimir with my Mo-mmy.

We never want to forget these special details of your life so we hope you like & remember the songs =) So in school you’re doing great & the teacher’s love you.  You started potty training & got A LOT of panties for Christmas from Santa.  (Dogs, Minnie, Tangles & Yo Gabba) This Winter you really fell in love with Dance.  Mommy did the “Every Season” dance at church which got you super obsessed. (see videos) And then Sofi did her 1st “Happy Birthday Jesus” dance at church as well.  You still go to ballet & learn to say “releve!”

You just got discharged from Speech so no more Jaime or Jeremy & you’re talking like a parrot & most amazingly like an adult.  We communicate so great & it’s just a complete MIRACLE how mature & communicative you are!  Today you took a PT Eval & I believe you’re getting discharged from PT as well!  You are jumping with both legs like a pro & it’s another huge testimony to see you jump around the way you do.  Time will tell & we’ll see what happens with your legs (surgery etc) but for now, we’re holding everything off & waiting on Jesus.  You still see Ana & are now eating spoonfuls of tiny tiny goldfish & biting Skittles.  This is going a lot slower than we hoped, but it’s all up to you Sofi.  We are learning to be patient bc it’s somewhat out of our control.

Some randoms are that you love to play with our Iphones & go on You tube. (You even lost Mommy’s phone once!)  You love watching “cup stacking” & dogs biting water balloon videos.  You love playing with your V.Reader in the car & at night you like to get your whole Beenie Baby Family of Yo Gabba Gabba & watch TV together.  We’re really into puzzles, matching games & play-doh & you love when I read you books.  You also love wearing my purple glitter lip gloss & tapping around in my boots.  We got you a blue feather extension (like Mommy) but I think you pulled it out.  You said you love Daddy “up to the sky” & Mommy “up to the Moon.” And you are just talking so much!  My favorite words you say are “slab” for scab & “stunk” for skunk.  This Christmas was even more special for you bc you understood more & really appreciated everything.  We would play “LIGHTS!” game in the car  (Spotting Christmas lights) & we took you to see those houses with lights like we did last year.  It’ll be a tradition of ours I think =)   You brush your teeth & shower by yourself (with assistance) & you’re totally in a Naked phase always telling me you want to “shower early.”  You love decorating & redecorating the tree when you think I don’t see you.  You kiss & hug us spontaneously & that is just the best!  You love praying & say “Lord Jesus…” it warms our hearts how strong & beautiful & full of joy you are my wise Sofia.  Until your Foofa 4 party, we love you So-Foofa =)

Sofi! “She’s strong & funny!”

Yaya! “She prays & dances”

Daddy! “He likes to break dance!” Yo Sanchez Sanchez YoOOoooo!!!!

The “F” Word

Posted: August 5, 2010 in Uncategorized

The roaring of applause’s fill the air & slowly being to subside as 3 Miami break dancers end their Lincoln Road street show. The crowd begins to disappear one by one when a girl comes up to me & gives me a little card. This little card is known as a gospel track & is a great tool used by Christians to spread the gospel. My friends & I noticed she was wearing an aqua shirt & in a quick “Ah-ha! moment”realized there were Christians all around us. It was so… encouraging & inspiring to see youth and people of all ages walking the streets of Miami spreading the truth of God’s Word & bringing salvation to the unforgiven.  And though it may seem this blog is going to be about evangelism, it is not. You see before we can preach to others about Christ, we need to follow the most important commandment He has given us.

36″Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 37 Jesus replied: ” ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’[a] 38This is the first and greatest commandment. 39And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ Matthew 22:36-40

As I think of that little track, I remember it said, “The F Word” on one side. The other side said, “Forgiveness” & proceeded to explain Christ’s forgiveness.  I felt compelled to write this blog specifically to the Body of Christ.  I truly believe many of us are walking around with some unforgiveness in our heart.  Naturally we are imperfect & will eventually fail, offend, disrespect or step on one anothers toes.  And guess what, it is not always the devil, sometimes it is just our human sinful nature.  As slaves to righteousness we have to ask God to search our hearts, expose that unforgiveness & deal with it.  If we do not, THEN we give room for the enemy to come & begin division in the Body of Christ.
Remember that we are supposed to be His reflection inside & outside the church.

*Sometimes we may not even realize that we are harboring bitterness or unforgiveness for someone.  Here are 4 ways to examine yourself as the word says & see if your heart & conscience is clear.

1. Relational Distance. You tend to distance yourself to the person that offended you or that caused your hurt. This is a sign of unforgiveness in your part.  We tend to distance ourselves from them and pretend to be strangers.

2. Harsh Words. Another sign of unforgiveness. You speak words that will surely stir your heart to be angry again with the person. Or speak words against that person.  Even silence or omission of words can be harsh.

3. Accusation and Suspicion. When we have not forgiven, we can become suspicious of others, reading into what people are saying and accusing them of things that may not be true. Accusation and Suspicion can ruin relationships!!!

4. The “Honesty” Test. You constantly doubt his/her loyalty and motives. Is a clear sign of unforgiveness.

I’m so happy that God has forgiven me. And now after granting us such a precious gift isn’t it our duty to do the same & extend that forgiveness to others? The Bible says there is one thing that should be so obvious in our character that it separates us from the outside world, “By this shall all men know that you are my disciples, if you have love one for another.” John 13:35

What I’ve learned in 3 years of marriage~

Posted: July 14, 2010 in Uncategorized

OK so apparently I can’t even drink half a frappucino before I’m wired beyond explanation & while everyone in this house is sleeping, I’m reminiscing on my 3 years of marriage.  Here’s what I’ve got…I’ve learned that when you say “I DO,” you seldom think of actually living out your vows, “for richer or poorer, in sickness & in health.”  That is something my husband Kevin & I have definitely lived out in the past 3 years.  Not exactly the richer or health, but the poorer & sickness part.  It’s amazing that we’ve come so far so fast.  In some aspects it feels like we’ve been together for 10 years, while in the same manner it feels like yesterday.  Even though we know we’ve gone through a lot of hardships since we’ve married, we’ve salso had a tremendous amount of blessings.  Though we’ve experienced undiagnosed issues in our daughter, we’ve seen God’s steady healing in her life.  And though we’ve moved 4 times in these 3 years due to me not working & my husband losing his job, we’ve seen God’s constant provision over us.  Even a small bible study we started for fun, God has transformed into a full functioning church.  His ways are truly amazing & I wouldn’t change a thing.  God’s plan is perfect & I signed up for it so I can’t get off the ride now!

My advice to the single people reading this, especially those never married, is that marriage is no joke.  I want to be encouraging, but really clear here.  In my opinion, the easiest & happiest part of your lives together will probably be your engagement followed by your wedding & honeymoon & of course when you have kids.  The in between is going to be hard or possibly harder than your life right now.  It’s not all roses & romance & you’re really going to need to be founded.  I learned something truly valuable on a marriage retreat & that is that there are many, many danger zones where couples experience divorce.  One is between the 1-3 year mark after the honeymoon stage is over.  This is where I am, but I already knew this.  I came into this marriage completely in love, but knowing that my “feelings” were not to be the foundation of my committment to my husband.  At the core of your relationship must be a super tight friendship.  That is soooo key!  If you do not grasp this once the “fire” dies down, it’s over.  And guess what? It will be the same with EVERY other relationship.  Lust & sex are not to be the glue of your marriage.  And if that’s all you have now you’re really missing out on having a deeper relationship.  It should not be based on flesh alone.  It should be based on supporting each other, communication, trust, servanthood & a genuine desire to do what’s best for the other person, even if it means changing yourself.  If you have a good foundation, when the “fire” dies down, you know how to pick it back up again.

I’ve learned that as the Word says “the small foxes ruin the vine.”  My husband prefers I use Gain to wash his clothes & I hate towels on the floor.  Seems harmless, but add a few of these little peeves up & it’s a recipe for disaster.  No matter how close you are, you are TWO different people who become one flesh when you get married, but this “becoming one” business is not an overnight thing.  If you look at my husband & I we have ways to grow.  We are equivalent to a 3 year old child, a toddler who is starting to learned to be more independent.  That is like us, we are ironing out some kinks & we’re flowing more together, learning to be one together.  There are things I’m dying to change in myself & him & some I’ve learned to tolerate & accept.  Some are ingrained character traits, while others are traits that require tweaking & compromise.  You must learn the difference between things that can change, and things that will not. (Thanks David Barlock for that wisdom!)

Another important ah-ha God showed me recently is that the world is a bunch of actors.  Everyone acts so tough, but they’re babies.  There’s a psychological term called “fight or flight” that people face when encountering a adversity in life.  Well, when it comes to marriage (as you may have heard the divorce rate is 50%) most are chosing flight.  They’re a bunch of chickens & no one is a fighter!  No one is willing to change, forgive, sacrifice, compromise, it’s all a bunch of flapping & flying & leaving the nest.  What’s happening world?

My best advice is this…prepare yourself for marriage by DEALING with yourself.  The more dealing & healing you do, the less garbage you bring into your marriage.  Understand it is a committment & only God knows what you will face, but if you place God, not sex, as your superglue, He will give you all the tools to survive.  Marry your best friend & stop thinking you or your spouse or potential spouse has to be perfect.  There’s no such thing as a perfect person or marriage.  And finally, understand it’s for life!  You’re a team so do your best for your team.  There’s such a beautiful richness when you can share your life, your dreams, your fears, your everything with not just someone, but THE one God has hand-picked for you.  Above all, keep God first & He will guide you to it and through it.  God Bless!

God 1st! Matt 6:33

Santeria at Sedanos

Posted: July 7, 2010 in Uncategorized

 

Man o man!  I’m not exactly proud of the following, but I felt it necessary to jot down.  So I hit up SEDANOS in Hialeah to do a few quick groceries & when I walk through the door, I see this lady in full Santera mode wearing white from head to toe.  Her head is shaved so she’s wearing a white cap & her face looks pretty oppressed. She has heavy black bags under her eyelids & after a moment of observing her, she just looks like she’s been through a lot.  I’ve seen young Santeros or wanna-be Santeros in their dressing all-white process of I don’t know how many months, but this lady was a little old “viejita.”  She looked like she could die any minute & the poor woman was obviously being majorly deceived.  I knew the minute I saw her I had to speak to her.  I can’t explain it, but I felt it in my spirit.  I happen to be reading a LIFE CHANGING book called He Came To Set the Captives Free & many issues described in the book arose while encountering this lady; like for instance, fear.  FEAR is the #1 tool of the devil.  When I found myself alone with this lady in the cereal aisle, no one around, the PERFECT opportunity, I felt an overwhleming sense of fear.  I prayed it away & realized I’m dealing with something possibly more powerful than emotions alone.  Maybe even demons.  I have evangelized many times, but this time it was different.  Santeria is a satan-based religion, where the potential converts are deceived into believing if they do all these things ie. wear white, shave their heads, works etc.,  they will be holier & get a “santo.”  Once they complete their process, they do get assigned a “santo” who supposedly protects them &  gives them what they pray for.  The deception is that they don’t know the Santo is really in heaven with Jesus, & what they’re getting is a demon in disguise.
2 Corinthians says

And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.

15

Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers (demons) also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

I just wanted to tell her you don’t have to DO all these things.  You have a direct connection to Jesus.  He alone is God.  You don’t need someone (an intercessor, biblical term) between you & God.  Jesus is the only one.  You can’t “get any holier” by wearing white or doing ANYTHING.  We are ALL sinners & are guilty.  Men try to create ways of getting holy or god-like, when in reality in the Kingdom of God, the last shall be first & the first last.  Meaning the lower you are, the higher you are to God.  If you “think” you’re good, you’re automatically outting yourself.  The humble will be exalted, but God resists the proud.  DIDNT SHE KNOW THIS??? Obviously not. 

Peanut Butter aisle, cleaning, aisle, bread aisle…I didn’t do it.  I went to pay & said God if you give me one more chance, I’ll say something, anything in faith.  BAMB! There she was…checking out the “panetela” in aisle 9.  I headed her way with my daughter in the stroller.  I said “Excuse me Ma’m” in Spanish.  She turned around, half-smiling half shocked.  Sofie softened the contact & I said “Senora, quiero que tu sepas que JESUS te ama mucho.”  Translation “Ma’m, I just want you to know, that JESUS loves you very much.”

That’s all that came out.  Part of me was disappointed, but another part of me said, no this is not the end.  I will pray that those words ring powerful in her ears & that when those head Santeria priests ask her to do weird things, kill a chicken, this & that, she has a revelation, that she can call on the name of Jesus & she doesn’t need all that garbage.

I hope you get something out of this bc I believe every little thing you see, read & experience is for a reason.  As for me I learned this…we must not stutter with the Holy Spirit.  We must rebuke any fear instantly & move forward diving head first into what God’s calling us to do, whether at the grocery store or the mall, or at work.  If you feel fear, you better believe it’s probably GOD telling you to do something, bc you’re feeling opposition baby!  Have a wonderful day & ask the Lord daily to put His armor on you to be ready to fight spiritually for Him & be victorious!

I’m in Love with a Girl…

Posted: July 7, 2010 in Uncategorized

I’m in love with a girl…I never thought I would say that, but I am.  She’s my daughter, Sofia Alixandra.  She makes every day worth living.  There’s so much I can say.  Should I tell you about her beautiful eyes that smile at me when she grins? Or how she curls her upper lip when she laughs?  Or maybe about the dimples so subtly imprinted on her chubby cheeks? Her beauty is beyond description.  How could God give me such a lovely creature?  Someone who, on this earth, is deemed defected, but in my eyes, perfection. I love her eyes.  One so big & brown, the other slanted, looking blue.  They are each divine to me.  I love to watch her sleeping with her mouth open.  Daddy says she looks just like me.
But can I stop to tell you about her strength?  How she goes from therapy to therapy tackling the challenges set before her.  How despite what the doctors said, she is achieving her milestones & proving everyone wrong.
She is resilient.

I want to be the best for her.  Not just give her the best material things, but really be the best me.  Leaving childish ways behind & realizing the best & biggest accomplishment is right before my eyes.  There’s no place to go.  I don’t need a promotion.  She is it.  She is the best of me, of us.

I sometimes wonder if I can love another as I love her.  I sometimes wonder if I could give all of me…my strength, my body, my energy, my time, my life, as I have given to her. 

All I know is that she’s been such a testimony to me.  A beacon of hope, a ball of love, my motivation & inspiration.  I can see how people can dangerously put their kids ahead of their spouses & even GOD Himself.  But that won’t be me.  I realize she’s only mine on earth to borrow.  I am her manager, but God is the boss.  I get so many revelations through her from Him.  Like recently if I leave a room, she throws a tantrum, but as long as she’s in my presence, she’s fine.  She can play all day by herself, but if I get up & walk away, everything goes downhill.  Similarly, I think of the Lord in the spiritual.  We are the babies & He is our Father.  We live our lives, work, play etc.  Sometimes we allow our very blessings to make us wander from God.  Before we know it, we’re not in His presence anymore & our lives start falling apart.  We may not notice, He’s always there, through our tantrums & through our joyous moments, but when we give Him the attention & recognize His presence, we are at peace again.

I had this urge to pour something out ,so I hope you were blessed.

God 1st~Matt 6:33

God’s Voice

Posted: June 24, 2010 in Uncategorized

Is it a possible thing to hear God’s voice? Some people expect a deep baritone voice like in the movies where the clouds split & a stream of light shines on them. Some believe He speaks, but can’t hear it.  Some people say they speak to God & He speaks back. Some don’t believe or care.

The truth is you can hear God & it’s way better than any audible sound. He speaks through many avenues.  Sometimes it’s an impression in my spirit. Sometimes is through the message at church, Christian friend or a song. Sometimes I’ll see a word or vision in my head, but mainly it’s directly through His Word. I’ll be reading something & out of nowhere there will come a line that just speaks into my soul. Often it’s an answer or word of assurance I needed to hear. People call that a “revelation,” but in simple English I say an “Ah-ha!” moment.

Lately I’ve been hearing God a lot. This leads me to believe that God has a lot to tell me & you, if you’re ready to listen. And I guess that’s my problem…listening. In between cleaning the house, the baby, ministering, socializing, therapies & doctor visits, I went deaf. I could hear everything, but God. I became a Martha, a doer, (busy with things) instead of Mary, a lover (busy with God alone).  (In reference to Luke 10:38-42)

godsVoice

Something happened to me recently, I moved. Yea, it doesn’t seem like a big deal, but changing one’s atmosphere can heighten your listening skills. The point is, hearing God is possible. It is through His Word, it is creating your own atmosphere designed for receiving His messages (my new closet) it is seeking Him for your needs & guidance & for laying everything at His feet also known as “the great transaction” of receiving His fresh meat (words, energy, power) from heaven. Proverbs 3:6 I have made a point to memorize & it would serve you well too. “Acknowledge the Lord in all (meaning ALL) your ways & He will direct your path.” I don’t know about you, but I need some direction & guidance with my life, my struggles, my finances, my marriage, my daughter & my little & big decisions. God still speaks, can you hear Him?

Here are some tips that help me figure out if what I’m thinking is God, is in fact GOD:

1~ God will never contradict His Word (so you must read people!) Reading God’s Word will get you familiar with His character & His voice.

2~ Our God, the One & Only True & Living God is patient. Rarely does God want you to be impulsive. For example if you think God is telling you to rush out of your marriage or job WAIT! That word “WAIT” is in the Bible 106 times. “Rush” is there only 4 times & the word “Hurry” zero!

3~ Before making moves or following any voice PRAY. Not just for “peace in your heart,” because the Bible says our heart is wicked, (Jeremiah 17.9) but for a confirmation in His Word. Don’t look for a verse to support your decision, but rather honestly seek God first & the answer will be given.

4~ What if God hasn’t answered me or I’m just confused? Godly council friends! That means you get advice from your Pastor, Deacon, Leader or a Christian Friend you trust will be honest with you & is mature in the faith.

5~ Lastly, the best way I learned God’s voice was missing it. Yes, sadly when you ignore or disobey God’s voice He often shows you later that the quiet voice inside was Him afterall!

Spirit Over Mind

Posted: June 24, 2010 in Uncategorized

Everyone has something they fear.  For some it’s sharks, bugs, or heights.  For me, it’s that my almost-2 year old daughter would pull out her feeding tube.  Recently, I learned a very valuable lesson when it comes to listening to the Holy Spirit.  About a month ago “something,” told me to order an extra mickey button/feeding tube for my daughter.  Little did I know that that “something” was God strategically preparing me for a head to head battle with my greatest fear.
I noticed the baby’s feeding button looked loose and I planned on changing it at the doctors office.  As I showed the doctor her loose button he said, “Don’t worry, she’ll be fine.”  I told him I had an extra one in the car, but I allowed his words to rationalize my thoughts and silence my spirit.  The next day I had an urge to drive to my mother’s house in Hollywood at night.  It was easier to drive long distances when the baby fell asleep in the car.  My mom lives right by Joe Dimaggios Children’s Hospital, the place my family and I spent 2 months when my daughter was born.  It is an excellent facility that we knew very well. 

The next morning I was awakened and confronted with my biggest fear.  I felt , & thinking it was the baby’s pamper, I went to change her and saw the mickey button & feeding extension off to the side.  The tiny balloon that holds it in place had burst.  For the first time I saw my daughters stomach as it will be one day, tube free.  I was in shock, but in total peace.  I knew at that moment everything was in God’s control.  I covered the wound knowing we had to get to the hospital fast.  As I trace back all the strategic steps I see how God was urging me all along.  He knew it was going to happen and had I insisted at the doctor’s office, we wouldn’t have had to rush to the hospital that early morning.  Needless to say, after a couple of hours & some heart-wrenching pain, Sofia was OK.  The hole had almost closed, but they got it just in time.  It was a miracle we were so close, but then again it wasn’t, it was God’s plan.  Hospitals don’t provide you with her special medical equipment, so perfectly, as God had planned it, that extra kit came in handy.  To add to God’s signature over this situation, I happened to be reading about the Spirit and mind and how one should always honor the Spirit over the mind.  It seems like common sense, but we struggle with decisions everyday.  God tells us to do something and our mind starts thinking and before you know it, we’ve rationalized our way out of it.  This was a tremendous testimony for me and I pray the next time the Spirit speaks, we can not only hear, but obey! It’s also comforting to know that even if we miss it, God is merciful to keep talking and does not give up on us.

“And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the Lord.  And, behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord; but the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake: And after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.”1 Kings 19:11,12

Whistle While You Work!

Posted: June 24, 2010 in Uncategorized

When I think of waiting on God for some reason I envision Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs singing the classic “Whistle while you work.”  The point of that tune was that if you’re going to have to work, you might as well be enjoying it by whistling.

Over 2 years ago I gave birth to a child with many complications.  I chose not to use the word disabled, but special.  She is my extra special needs child & God has chosen my husband & I to parent her.  Many of us are waiting for many things in life.  Some are waiting for husbands or wives, new jobs, raises at work, salvation of family, healing, broken hearts to mend, children to be born, marriages to be restored and some like me are waiting for my child to be machine free.  That is, she will no longer need a machine in order to live.  As we approach her 2nd birthday I’m reminded of all the waiting I have done, and of all the waiting that waits.  Here are some translations of the word wait: “wait” is yachal.  Yachal means “to wait,” or “hope, wait expectantly,” and is so translated in our English Bibles. The KJV sometimes translates yachal as “trust” as in Isaiah 51:5, but the NASB has “wait expectantly” and the NIV “wait in hope.”

I love the way God tells us that we should hope and wait expectantly as if we know & truly believe God is going to deliver, because He is!

One of the important exhortations of the Bible is the call to “wait on the Lord.” Even though God promises special blessing for waiting, waiting is one of the most difficult exhortations of Scripture. Why is it so hard? Because, as a part of fallen humanity, we are so prone to take matters into our own hands, to follow our own schemes. Yet, over and over again we are told in Scripture “wait on the Lord.” ~Bible.org

I wanted to encourage everyone as Pastor Raul one shared that as we wait for whatever it is, we should wait on God.  Not only wait with patience, like you’re waiting in a register line at Publix, but wait on God like a server at a restaurant.  Wait on Him, work for Him, serve Him, love His body, and seek His face!  I truly believe the time goes by faster & sweeter when you wait on God in this way.  The past 2 years brings joy to my heart & the waiting I hardly remember because I am busy with the Father’s business knowing He is handling mine.   Are you waiting for something?   I’m sure you are.  Don’t let impatience make you desperate.  God’s timing is perfect and though you may not see a visual change, God is always, always working.   Grab your life by the horns and serve Him, wait on Him hands and feet and make your waiting worth the while.  Similar to those dwarves who were whistling joyfully while they worked, we can worship with our lives while we wait~

Just SHUT UP

Posted: September 3, 2009 in 1
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The Department of Children & Families offices are kinda like hell on earth.  People are stressed out because they need their checks, insurance blah blah blah & everyone thinks their case is the worst.  So after they did NOT give me Sofie’s Medicaid back on Sept 1st, I showed up to “hell in Hialeah” myself.  THANK GOD! I took a good book to keep me waiting which has me praying like it’s my job! (He Came to Set the Captives Free, by Dr. Rebecca Brown, in case you were wondering)

Finally, they called my husband’s name (Kevin Sanchez) 3 times with a heavy spanish accent, “KEVEEEEN SANCHEZ!!!” before I realized the lady was calling us.
By the time I got to her, she was livid.  As I begain to explain my case she blatantly told me I’d have to wait another 2 weeks to reapply & could not even tell me if they received the package I had faxed them.  Ah… hell no!!!  I was about to bust out with “MY CHILD HAS MEDICAL ISSUES” speech & as she looked at me awkwardly & a still small voice inside me said “SHUT UP!”  OK well maybe not in so many words, maybe it was “hush!” or “callate!” but all I know is that I did.  Suddenly, that awkward look she gave me became more intense & she was looking past me now & it’s as if the volume had been slowly ascending on an argument happening behind me.

Because I shut up, I was no longer distracting her so she focused more & more on that argument.  In seconds it was a full blown cursing fight between some man & another medicaid lady.  My ”bitter Betty’ was caught up in the drama & started getting scared so she got up to go help the other lady & POOF, the wicked witch was gone!  I used that crucial time to intercede my little head off asking for favor in JESUS’ name, rebuking every demon who’s using pride & making these people resist my case.  Out of the blue came the lady in pink.  She sat down in front of me & said “May I help you?” Ahhh those sweet words… “Yes, you can!”   -She began helping me but then the witch reappeared,– but with a new attitude. WOW amazing!  Now the witch lady was helping the pink lady help me!   Bananas!

They say you get more with honey than with vinegar, but I say when God tells you to shut up, just shut it!  I could’ve had a wonderful argument & even gotten very upset bc I have the right, right?!  But God showed me I AM YOUR DEFENDER! I WILL FIGHT YOUR BATTLES!  Lord, please help us to be quiet more often! THANK YOU!

“Be still and know that I am God.”  Psalm 46:10

God 1st~ Ali