The Valverde Family

Who's the King of the Jungle?

2011-03-16T18:21:00.000-07:00

Hola Family and Friends!

Have I told you lately how much I love you? Well I love you to the moon and back!

The Valverde house is busy and blessed as usual. Jaxon is talking so much and has learned several songs. I am counting down the days until school is out. Not because I don't like my job...in fact I love it! I have a great class and a BFF for a teaching partner. However, I have discovered this year that home is where my heart is so I will not be returning to teaching until the kid(s) are in school. That is of course if I let them go to school. I keep teasing David and Jaxon that I am going to homeschool our kids and call it "Mama's School of Love." And they will also attend "Mama's College of Love" then when they are 25 or older they can leave home. I know, I know, I may not say that when they are teenagers but for now the thought of my children EVER leaving home is just too much to bear! Of course I am being dramatic...maybe :)

Jaxon singing "Who's the King of the Jungle?"

Pay close attention to this one...Jaxon draws a circle and then says "circle."

"I prayed to the LORD and he answered me; he freed me from all my fears." Psalm 34:4

God has been revealing to me how much of my life is controlled by fear. I have committed myself to memorizing scripture on the subject so that everytime Satan whispers fear into my head I will have God's Word ready to yell back!

I do mean it when I say that we love you all and pray for so many of you often! Please let us know if there is anything we can ever pray for you about. We would be privileged to go to Jesus on your behalf!

Smiles,

Sabrina

January Updates

2011-01-14T18:51:00.000-08:00

Hello friends and family! I have had this post in my draft box for some time! I am finally finding time to finish it. I am trying to make sure I blog once a month. Life is going by so fast and I do not want to forget all the little moments that make it so sweet!! I think I will begin with some Jaxon updates. He is learning and growing so much!

Jaxon at 18 months:

Diapers: Size 5

Height: 33 1/4 inches

Weight: 25 lbs 9 ounces
Favorite Food: Whole grain pasta with pasta sauce and beef

Favorite Activities: Being outside, hide and go seek, coloring, "BALL"...ball is the first word he says when he gets up in the morning. He has several but only one favorite and he could play with it all day!

Words: Jaxon is a talking machine these days. Some of the words he can say are: Bible, water, cup, more, mine, go, ball, bird, dog, vroom, basketball (not even joking), bath, car, keys, papa (for food),bug, book, block, ow, duck, balloon, bubbles, and so many more...often he will just repeat something we say and never use it again. It is so much fun trying to figure out what he is saying!

Why we think he is so cute!: There are not enough words but I will try to narrow it down :)

1.We have begun disciplining Jaxon. Making sure he obeys the first time etc. We were saying "No" when he did something he was not suppose to do. In return he pointed his finger at us and told us "no." As cute as that was it wasn't working. I finally started thinking about how empathetic Jaxon is. He often feeds his stuffed animals and gives them a drink of his sippy cups. He is pretty good at sharing his toys for his age. He often hugs and gives kisses without being prompted. So several weeks ago I stopped saying "no" and started showing him that it made me sad when he hits or takes toys etc... And so far it works! It is the cutest thing! So cute...I hope I'm not overusing it! He kicks when I change his diaper and then I show him a sad face and he puts up his hands and motions for a hug...and stops kicking! I hope it keeps working! He hasn't told me "no" in weeks, well except for when I tell him it is time for a bath :)

2.We also love the "vroom" sound he makes when he pushes his cars or when he is about to get in the car.

3. He is still a dancing machine! He has always loved to move!! Now he likes to sing also and will often find something to pretend like he is holding a microphone or grab his toy microphone. He has a toy drum that he likes to play with. Whenever he starts playing, we start singing along. He will stop and hand us his toy microphone.

4. Jaxon's Tia Teresa taught him to slap his knee and fake laugh. He does it everytime David and I are laughing about something that does not involve him. It is precious to watch!

Christmas Pictures

Best Buddies

Christmas Morning 2010

Daddy and Jaxon trying out Jaxon's new rides.

At the park with my handsome boy!

My favorite picture! This year we started teaching Jaxon about baby Jesus. He has a navitiy set where each little piece is in a separate box. By Christmas time he could pick out baby Jesus and would give him kisses. It was the sweetest thing! Notice how neatly each character is sitting in the stable...that is the David in Jaxon! He neatly sat up each figure in the stable everytime.

Jaxon could not wait to try out his new toys! He didn't want to keep unwrapping he just wanted to play!

"Let me at it!"

Christmas lunch

Baking with mommy!

"This is fun!"

"Who's the most handsome little boy in the world?"

JAXON PEDRO VALVERDE

December 2010

March 2010

In other news...
We have been reading several great books. I finally read Crazy Love by Francis Chan and I recently read Radical by David Platt.

Both are books that really caused us to evaulate our Christianity. Here is a quote from Radical that has stuck with me:

"We look back on slave-owning churchgoers of 150 years ago and ask, "How could they have treated their fellow human beings that way?" I wonder if followers of Christ 150 years from now will look back at Christians in America today and ask, "How could they live in such big houses? How could they drive such nice cars and wear such nice clothes? How could they live in such affluence while thousands of children were dying because they didn't have food and water? How could they go on with their lives as though the billions of poor didn't even exist?""

We have begun a journey of purifying our faith. It is taking some work to weed out what is the American version of Christianity and what is Christianity the way God intended it to be. We have sold many things we don't need including our televison so that we can give more. For Christmas we made donations in honor of family and friends instead of buying them more stuff that they don't need and probably don't want :) We have always given money to homeless people when we see them if we had cash on us. Now we stop get their name and go to the ATM if we don't have cash. We are being careful not to ignore the "least of these" among us or across the globe. In America we measure a church's success by budgets, butts, and buildings but God's plan for the Church is much deeper than that. We are the church and it is our prayer that these biblical principles that have been difficult for us will come easy to our children. David and I truly believe that our children's generation will experience a more pure version of Christianity as a result of this journey that we and many other Christians are on.

I encourage you to read Matthew 25:31-46 and Isaiah 58 this week.

“No, this is the kind of fasting I want: Free those who are wrongly imprisoned; lighten the burden of those who work for you. Let the oppressed go free, and remove the chains that bind people. Share your food with the hungry, and give shelter to the homeless. Give clothes to those who need them,and do not hide from relatives who need your help." Isaiah 58:6-7

Much love,

Sabrina

Merry Updates

2010-12-20T19:11:00.000-08:00

Jaxon gets cuter everyday! He is imitating everything we do...which is kind of scary! We are definitely putting ourselves in check much more lately! Especially since "NO!" seems to be his new favorite word. He scrunches up his little face, points his finger, and says "NO!" It is hard not to laugh :) He continues to be a sweet little guy most of the time. Always smiling and waving to everyone we meet. In the church nursery he always finds a doll and feeds her a play bottle. Then he walks around patting her. I told David he is going to rescue orphans from the streets one day!

He still loves to dance and has many new moves which you will see in the videos to come. He likes to raise his hands and "praise the Lord." He likes to lift up our shirts and tickle us. He even says "tickle, tickle!" He can do the motions for This Little Light of Mine and of course he has the "NO!" part down when his light tries to hide under a bushel :) His vocabulary is growing daily, he says: no, dog, bird, "bub" for bubbles, dada, more, up, ball, go, and his other favorite word- MAMA. He says mama all the time and it is music to my ears! He loves to read and he brings me book after book to read to him. At 16 months he is 25 lbs and 32 inches tall. Whew! I think we are all caught up on Jaxon happenings!

Jaxon praises to our Hillsong CD. He pointed to his drawer in order to request his microphone...so I gave it to him...and he began to sing!

Jaxon feeding his puppy. He was feeding it a long time before I got the Flip and then he kind of stopped but I wanted to remember how sweet he is. He is always taking care of his stuffed animals!

Jaxon knows where his snacks are kept. This day I heard him walking down the hall and I knew something was in his hand. I turned the corner to check on him and he was hugging the cracker box with one hand and had the other hand inside. He then dumped them on the floor! Watch to see how it all ended...

*This is our office trash can so it just has papers and the occasional sonic cup...nothing yucky :)

We are praying that each of you experience the JOY of Christ this Christmas season! In his book, Crazy Love, Francis Chan states, "A person who is obsessed with Jesus is more concerned with his or her character than comfort. Obsessed people know that TRUE JOY doesn't depend on circumstances or environment; it is a gift that must be chosen and cultivated, a gift that ultimately comes from God."

Choose Joy!

"Dear brothers and sisters,when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing." James 1:2-4

Merry Christmas from David, Sabrina, and Jaxon Valverde

We love you!!!

The Frog Prince

2010-11-02T19:16:00.000-07:00

Jaxon had a happy halloween! He enjoyed dressing up like a frog or at least he didn't seem to mind too much. We also visited a near by pumpkin patch. Here is our harvest happenings in pictures:

Here is Jaxon trying on his costume. Isn't he the sweetest frog you have ever seen? Mommy and Jaxon walking through the hay bale maze.

Jaxon taking his picture with a friendly scarecrow.

Jaxon's first halloween stop.

Nanny and Grampa Norris our sweet neighbors and church friends.

Ribbit!

Jaxon had a unique technique! One paintbrush in each hand and use the handle not the brush...brilliant ;)

Yummy! I don't get as excited about a good dessert as David does but this apple ice cream and apple dumpling was AMAZING! I had to snap this picture of us three sharing this yummy treat!

I love my family!

Jaxon loved playing in the hay stacks.

Jaxon and me about to tackle the maze!

This is a verse I recently found that I want to share with you. I have been praying this over Jaxon and for our family.

"A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences." Proverbs 27:12

Praying for Godly wisdom for each of you!

Love and Smiles,

Sabrina

Happy Happenings

2010-10-09T17:49:00.000-07:00

Jaxon is 14 months old! This has been one of the most fun months! He is changing and learning new things daily. Here is a note for my sweet Jaxon:

Jaxon!

You continue to light up our life!! And not just ours everyone you meet. You bring joy to your day care teachers. They always tell me how happy and sweet you are. They tell me that you LOVE to dance during chapel each morning. That does not surprise me...dancing is your favorite!! You love to laugh and the littlest things make you smile. I hope you are always that way!! Here are some of your stats:

Diapers: Size 4 (you have been in that size forever, your growth has really slowed down)

Food: Pasta, Mum Mums, anything with tomato sauce, fruit, fruit, and more fruit...some days that is all you will eat

Games: Pointing (is that a game?), Throwing your hands up and saying "oh", Peek-a-boo, basketball (you love to "shoot" hoops on your little play place

What's New?: Talking (we think you may be speaking a different language :) You love to talk to us, we just aren't sure what you are saying. You say mama and dada all the time and you know how to get our attention! You say ball and bye. You are great at waving and wave hi to everyone who comes down the road or passes us in the grocery store. You also are learning to sing "This little light of mine." You love to hold up your little light.

We love you Jaxon Pedro!!!

Here are some of our favorite pics. from the last month.

You are a great helper! You like to close the dishwasher and push the button to turn it on.

Climbing is one of your favorite activities. You now know how to slide with out help!

"More" you are really good at signing more! It lets us know you are hungry!!

You like to make the "vroom" sound with your lips while you are pushing your cars. Here lately you run around the house making that noise.

Handsome!!!

Hilarious! I went in your room to wake you up one morning and apparently some time during the night you grabbed your balloon which had been floating around in your room. You had a tight grip on it! Thankfully you didn't get tangled up in it! I won't make that mistake again!!

Daddy is your favorite dude!

Rainforest Cafe San Antonio, TX

You had a blast! Here you are pointing to the gorillas!

Thanks for checking in on us! We love you all!!!

Smiles,

Sabrina

Slam Dunk!

2010-09-26T10:04:00.000-07:00

Catch Up!

2010-09-09T17:58:00.000-07:00

Living in a small town has it's advantages and disadvantages. Lately we've been experiencing more of the disadvantages. One of the disadvantages is super s l o w Internet!! Therefore, that is my excuse for not updating sooner :) So here it goes...I will attempt to catch up on all the happenings of the last month!

I am teaching Kindergarten this year and loving it! I have a super class and the best teaching partner. She has honestly kept me sane in this crazy transition time. Leaving Jaxon has been one of the hardest things I have ever done! I knew it would be hard but I had no idea it would be this hard!! I miss seeing all of his little moments. I am definitely taking it day by day. God is showing me so much!! One of the things He gently whispered to me one morning when I was up early about to prepare Jaxon for his first day of daycare is that He is preparing me to minister to families. I was so fortunate to stay home for a year with Jax but that is not the reality for most people. Now I fully understand the day care to work to daycare to home to bed only to start over the next day scramble! I know He is allowing this situation to give me a new perspective and understanding. It still amazes me that God uses our every circumstance to teach and grow us. He is the creator of the universe yet He is interested in me!

Jaxon has been growing and changing so much! He has been saying so many words and has started running! He loves day care and his teachers can't get enough of him. On his first day I sent along a note with all of Jaxon's norm's, likes, dislikes etc.. I mentioned that we are teaching Jaxon to pray and that if they would help him put his hands together he will hold them and wait while they said a short prayer. When I arrived to pick him up his teacher told me that they did just what I asked and when all the other kids saw Jaxon praying they began putting their hands together so his teachers decided to pray with all of the kids. I know he is only a year old but I was just so proud! One of our prayers for him is that he will be a "spiritual champion" and he already is!!

David is being super man as usual! He is keeping everything at home going smoothly so I can relax and enjoy Jaxon when I'm home. David is so attached to Jaxon and misses seeing him on his lunch break. Every day I thank God for this man I get to share my life with! He keeps me laughing and grounded when the storms of life roll!!

Here are few pictures from a little outing we took Jaxon on before school started. We went to the Tot Spot at the Children's Museum in San Antonio. It was so cute to watch Jaxon play and interact with the other kids. He is so laid back kids would take his toys and he just walked away and then he found a little girlfriend he kept following around. He was trying to get her attention by hitting her on the head so I showed him how to hug her instead. I always say "hands are for hugging and helping not for hitting." He loves to hug!

Dada and Jaxon riding a bulldozer. They picked up rocks and then dumped them off at the work site. My heart melts every time I watch them two together. Whose the cutest boy in the whole wide world? Jaxon Pedro Valverde

that is a song we sing to him :)

He loved looking at the bubbles.

This picture makes me smile. Jaxon put every single one of those glow sticks into the holes. David and I sat for at least 10 minutes (which is a long time for a little guy to concentrate) and watched him take the sticks out one by one, place it in the hole, go back and get another one and do it again. We laugh all the time because Jaxon already shows some of his daddy's personality traits. This is one of those traits. I'm not sure if you would call it perseverance or perfectionism? We also laugh at Jaxon's ability to keep up with certain objects. If he is holding something and decides he wants something else he carefully puts in on the ground, if it moves or rolls he moves it back to it's original spot until he is satisfied with where it is and then goes and gets what he wants and he always comes back for it. I think it would be super if Jaxon gets David's orderly trait :)

Jaxon loves playing with dad!

The HEB play grocery store was not made for Jaxon but he saw the little cart and zoomed across the "store." Thankfully he didn't see the grocery shelves stocked with play food.

I thought I would leave you with this picture of Jaxon from this time last year. It is strange to be able to measure time by looking at the growth of your child. Time is truly a precious and fleeting gift!

"Just as you cannot understand the path of the wind or the mystery of a tiny baby growing in its mother's womb, so you cannot understand the activity of God, who does all things." Ecclesiastes 11:5

If you have never read the book of Ecclesiastes I challenge you to do so! It really helps put life into perspective. Just make sure to read it all the way through if you stop at the beginning or in the middle you might be a little bit depressed. Ha! Enjoy your time getting to know our Lord!

Smiles,

Sabrina

Jaxon at 11 months

2010-08-13T19:47:00.000-07:00

Jaxon tries on his new shoes!

Jaxon boogies down!

Jaxon and Daddy get jiggy with it!

Love,

Sabrina

Happy Birthday Jaxon!

2010-08-02T10:57:00.000-07:00

Jaxon had a great first birthday! He had 36 guests! We celebrated in our hometown, Junction. The theme was "Summer Fun". In my next post I will post his professional birthday pictures and invitations. Here is the party recap in random order:

Jaxon trying to decide how is suppose to use the big stick to hit the big ball :)

Jaxon's first pinata swing!

Shawn, Trace, David, and Jaxon

(Shawn and David grew up together and were each other's "best man" their little boys met for the first time!)

Trace and Jaxon

So sweet!

Jaxon chose to sit with the crowd and applaud while his gifts were being opened for him :) It was so funny!

Opening gifts! Jaxon says "Thanks!" for all his terrific new clothes and toys!!

Clean up after eating cake!

Party People!

Aunt Gina helps Jaxon take a big bite of cake!

Oops we forgot the party hat!!

Yum!!

I love this picture! Let me tell you why...five seconds before this Jaxon fell down and was crying. David scooped him up and I started the crowd on the "Happy Birthday" song. He instantly began smiling! He knew we were singing to him!!

He loved hanging out outside. He would not let anyone pick him up! He just wanted to run around.

The cake was so cute! It matched his theme perfectly. The candles spell "JAXON"

Centerpieces complete with lollipops that say "Thanks for coming to Jaxon's party!"

Swim time!!

Splashing in the splash zone!

Relaxing in the pool.

Bryson greets Jaxon!

Bryson and Rachelle sign Jaxon's giant card made by Sarah.

Jaxon's new wheels from Nonni.

Sarah attempts to change her first diaper.

Aunt Heather and Jaxon

Jaxon had a great time at his first birthday party!

Thanks to everyone for making his day extra special!!!

We love you!

Jaxon's First Haircut!

2010-08-02T09:48:00.000-07:00

July 30, 2010 Jaxon got his first haircut at Oscar's Barber Shop in Junction, TX. Oscar cut my hair when I was a little girl, he still cuts David's hair, and even cut David's Wuelo's hair. We thought it was only appropriate that he also cut Jaxon's hair!! I wasn't at all nervous because Jaxon really is a go with the flow kind of kid. He charmed and entertained the other customers for the entire hour while we waited. Here are a few pictures. I will post a video soon...I'm sure you all can't wait to watch Jaxon get an 8 minute hair cut ;)

(The pictures are out of order)

Jaxon meets Oscar!

Jaxon feeds "da da" a cracker while we wait."This sounds fun!"
The first clip

My handsome boys waiting for their haircuts!

A few extra pics. just for fun...

I decided I would take a picture of the pinata every year so we would remember the party theme.

David decided he would hold up the number of years we are celebrating ;)

P.S. Nonni sells AVON and Jaxon loves to pull everything off of that shelf behind David :)

Power point! What does he want? My camera!! We were about to go out to trim our flower garden. Doesn't he look cute in those boots!!!

Jaxon's new slide!

Jaxon "helping" Daddy set up his new toy!

"What is the price of five sparrows-two copper coins? Yet God does not forget a single one of them. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows." Luke 12:6-7

Smiles,

Sabrina

11 months and counting

2010-07-25T20:34:00.000-07:00

Wow!! Summertime is almost gone! I have had this post in my draft box and I'm finally posting it!! Here is what we have been busy doing the past month plus some of Jaxon's 11 month stats.

We spent a few days in Arlington celebrating our friends Carlos and Sascha. Their wedding was gorgeous and David was honored to officiate!!

Jaxon and his buddy Bryson. Jaxon loved trying to keep up with Bryson!!

Jaxon and Mommy dancing the night away. Jaxon did so well on all of our outings this summer. He is such a happy baby!!

Carlos and Joey waiting for the rehearsal to begin.

Cousin Sarah squeezes in some Jaxon time while we were visiting at Nana's house.

I call this Jaxon's "power point". He has learned that if he points he gets something. If he doesn't like what he gets he just points at something else (along with a little grunt :)

Jaxon's first amusement park ride. During the youth trip to Six Flags Arlington and YEC Jaxon and I rode this little ride before spending the day with some friends.

Hanging out at the hotel pool during the YEC trip.

First taste of ice cream...YUM!

Tia Sarah spent a week with us this summer. Jaxon LOVES playing with her!!

At 11 months Jaxon discovered the water hose. He really enjoyed experimenting with it :)

David got a giant cupcake for his birthday baked by Sarah and approved by Jaxon :)

Playing at the park!!

As I type this Jaxon is already one year old. I have really gotten behind but wanted to update on some fun things about his 11th month. He learned to point, say "hi", walk really well, climb up (he is still working on down), and he has gotten several more teeth. His new favorite game (and mine :) is "running" and hugging me. He walks to the far end of the room and walks as fast as he can and falls into me and I scoop him up in a big hug. He just laughs and laughs!! We have had a busy and blessed summer!!!

"If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me." Jeremiah 29:13

I encourage you to look for God in the little moments of your life this week. It is easy to see Him when someone is healed or to look for Him when we need a prayer answered but He is with us in the ordinary, day to day moments too. I have to agree with Beth Moore when she says that we have the right as God's children to look at a sunset and believe He put it there just for us. I can always see God when I watch David and Jaxon play together. Where are the little places that you find Him?

Much love and smiles to you!! Thank you for your patience as I know many of you have shared your disappointment that I have not kept up better :) I'm about to put up 3 more posts so you will get your Jaxon fix!!

SHINE!

Sabrina

"You can't get maximum return on minimum effort." Jon Randles

Book Reviews

2010-07-06T13:45:00.001-07:00

I am relaxing at my mom's while David is in Connecticut on a mission trip with the youth group. I have been needing to update for awhile. Life has been so hectic! There are a million little things I need to do, said I would do, want to do...but haven't had time!

Jaxon just turned 11 months old. He is walking everywhere and getting into everything! I will post all about the last month soon.

I love when people I know recommend books so I thought I would use this post to do that. I have recently read some great books. If I read a book all the way through it is because I'm enjoying it! I usually read 2 books at a time so if one isn't clicking with me...I just move on :)
Here they are:

So, Long Insecurity, by Beth Moore: It took me awhile to "get it" because I don't see myself as "chronically insecure" but wow, the lessons I learned as I continued to read. She gives practical insights on how to identify insecurities in your daily life and how to attack them. God showed me many truths about my own life. He also showed me the desperate need to model security to young girls. The book also made me view other women in a different light. Beth Moore discusses practical ways of helping other women with insecurities instead of adding to the problem. Amen, sister!!

Left to Tell, by Immaculee Ilibagiza: I read it in two nights! It is about a young woman (the author) who finds God during the Rwandan holocaust. The book not only inspired me but humbled me deeply!

You Can Still Wear Cute Shoes by Lisa McKay: Great book, easy read, laugh out loud funny! This book is about the importance of being YOU in the role of a pastor's wife. She gave vivid examples and stories that I could connect with. She also has a ton of useful advice. I really enjoyed the chapter on PK's.

Several other books got dumped along the way but I won't mention those because I like to keep it positive :)

Up next: I usually have a book waiting around but of course I have actual free time and I'm still waiting on my book to arrive :( Here is what I'm waiting for and a few that David is reading that he swears I must read (he always says that but I usually don't enjoy his books as much as he thinks I will...funny how that works :)

A Million Miles in a Thousand Years by Donald Miller

Father Fiction: Chapters for a Fatherless Generation by Donald Miller

David is reading or should I say trying to read (he has read enough to tell me I just HAVE to read it...I don't why he bothers because he practically quotes it to me verbatim :)
The Next Evangelicalism:Freeing the Church from Western Cultural Captivity by Soong-Chan Rah
* I told David the devil does not want him to read this book! He was scheduled to attend a conference were Professor Rah was speaking, he got in free because he was one of the first 100 from his school to sign up...yippee..right?, he was excited all week, the day came, something came up, he totally forgot about it. So he called the school to ask for notes, they said we will send you his book..yippee...right? The book came David became interested, he took it on the plane, left it on the plane, called me to order it from Amazon...so hopefully it will be waiting on our front step when we get home and we will just see what the devil doesn't want David to read ;)!!

David is also reading The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis and also thinks I HAVE to read it ;) I informed him that I don't like to think that much when I read :)!!

***Disclaimer: I know that Rah and Miller are controversial we are mature enough to take the good and leave the bad. We believe it is imperative for leaders to broaden themselves beyond their normal, their comfort zone, their box, their lid, whatever you want to call it :)

If you have read any good books lately please let me know! I get many of my book recommendations from Holly Furtick via the "preachers wife" link on the right. If you have read or are going to read any of these books I would love to hear what you think!!!

Have a terrific Tuesday!
Sabrina

" May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer." Psalm 19:14

Jaxon's walking!

2010-06-21T20:13:00.000-07:00

Jaxon has been taking 2 to 3 steps everyday for a little over a week. Today he really took off! He walked across his mat over and over again. In this clip you can hear me (mom) cheering him on over the phone. Jaxon was fussy because he wanted the phone and David was making him walk to get it..ha! I can't wait to see how he does tomorrow!!

"For we walk by faith, not by sight." 2 Cor. 5:7

Smiles,

Sabrina

Fab Five

2010-06-05T21:41:00.000-07:00

June 4, 2010, David and I celebrated five fabulous years of marriage! I relish in the last five years yet I anxiously await the next five! Time is a tricky thing. It still amazes me that of all the men in the world God gave me the best one (this is a little saying around our house:).

Life is scary and difficult at times...having my best friend, greatest supporter, and wisest mentor by my side sure makes it much more enjoyable! David is rare, unique- he is a gem! Of all the things David is and is not the most important thing is that his heart beats for Jesus. His passion for serving Christ is contagious. He makes me a better person and a better Christ follower- in the end that is what lasts!

I love his big laugh, witty words, and servants heart. I admire his constant confidence in Christ, his ability to discern people and situations (actually he can read people so well it flips me out-I'm still amazed when he tells me something and a year later it turns out to be true!), and his life story. I appreciate him for being an amazing dad and a laundry extraordinaire!!

Engagement Picture 2005

June 4, 2005

Honeymoon, Niagara Falls

June 2006

March 2007

Christmas 2007

June 2008

November 2009

May 2010

David! All the words, on all the pages, in all the books could not describe all the ways I love you!!!

Thanks for five fabulous and fun years!!!

"Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love."

1 Corinithians 13:13

Smiles,

Sabrina

10 months old

2010-06-05T19:59:00.000-07:00

Jaxon! You are 10 months old!! I didn't know one human was capable of loving someone this much!!! Every day your dad and I marvel at how head over heels in love we are with you!!! You bring us joy everyday!

Here is what you have been up to:

Diapers: Size 4
Teeth: Eight
Clothes: 12 months
Food: Just about anything you can pick up yourself. You still do not like to eat from the spoon.
Games: Chase, "Give Love" (I hug something (usually daddy) then you hug me...this is mom's favorite game), Roll the ball, Pass the ball (or any object), Copy cat, you also like to watch Family Feud on TV- you clap along with the music every time!
Songs: He's Got the Whole World and If Your Happy are still your favorites. You like to dance and move your arms up and down to the beat. I think you will play the drums like daddy!
What's New? Blowing kisses, talking on the phone, give high fives, sign "more", and giving hugs (you pat us on the back with your head on our shoulder...it melts my heart every time!)

Everyone still comments on your big smile and joyful spirit! You continue to make friends everywhere we go. You bring such gladness to everyone you meet! We continue to be amazed that of all the little boys in the world God gave us the very best one :) We love you Jaxon Pedro!

Jaxon is getting so good at posing for his monthly pictures!

Jaxon went with the youth group on Wednesday night. He swam and played very hard. He fell down and just laid there. It was like he was trying to decide if he should get up or just go to sleep.
Jaxon got lots of Nonni time during the Memorial day weekend. He loves his Nonni!

David showing Jaxon the waves-Jaxon likes to copy his dad!

I love Jaxon's face in this picture! Forgive the mess in the background-I'm moving into my classroom next week and my kitchen is full of boxes.

He was a little anxious at the beach. As long as we stayed right next to him-he was fine. He didn't cry or get upset- he just held on really tight! I call him a "cautious" baby.

Yay! Mommy found this new toy at a garage sale! I think she got a great deal!!

Always curious!

Trying to lift weights like Daddy.

Classic Jaxon!

Thanks for checking in on us! We are doing great and life is flying by!! We are constantly reminding ourselves to pause and be grateful for the good things from above. I just read a great book and I hope to share more about it the next post. I'm always amazed and humbled that God allows me to know Him the little that I do. This book has really helped me in my journey!

"Trust in the Lord and do good." Psalm 37:3

Smiles,

Sabrina

Congrats Tia Teresa!

2010-06-03T18:02:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful Memorial day weekend which began with Tia Teresa's high school graduation. Teresa received numerous scholarships and graduated 4th in her class! We are so proud of her!! All of the family was there to celebrate her accomplishments. Jaxon loved all of the attention!! Here is our weekend in pictures (in random order):

Jaxon really liked eating watermelon with his Wuela

and his Tia Yaya.

Angel was determined to teach Jaxon to walk this weekend- he almost has it down!

Tia Teresa the graduate, Hunter, and Jaxon

Teresa has the most gorgeous smile!!

Jaxon with his second cousins: Karson, Kaleub, and Keaun

Jaxon thinks it is pretty cool hanging with these guys!!

Jaxon's second cousins (David's cousins) Alyssa, Hunter, Karson, Keaun, Kaleub, and Celine

Aren't they a sweet looking group!?!

More cousins, a tia, and a step tio :)

Ana, Kendal, Sarah, and Angel

The big kid table :)

Teresa's mom, papi, brothers, and sisters plus Jaxon

Tia Yaya and Uncle Kent

Teresa had the honor of giving the benediction because of her class rank.

Congrats Grads!!!

Celine, Janie, Teresa, Amanda, and Hondo Valverde

Jaxon, Sabrina, Teresa, and David Valverde

Kaleub, Roland,Karson,Teresa, Mimi, and Keaun Valverde

Teresa receiving a scholarship.

Jaxon with Tio Roland and Hondo

We love you Teresa!!!

ROAR!

2010-05-23T19:58:00.000-07:00

Jaxon loves the lion his Wuelo and Wuela gave him! He likes to hit the big purple nose and dance to the music. He will hit the nose, play, and then crawl back and hit it again when the music stops. I've tried to catch him dancing with his lion several times. Once he sees the Flip- he dives for it :)

Jaxon Live!

2010-05-19T22:04:00.000-07:00

Every video we take lately ends the same...with Jaxon trying to take the camera!

Have a great day!

Sabrina

Catching Up!

2010-05-19T20:21:00.000-07:00

We've been so busy! I'm trying to soak up the last few days of May!! Summer is going to be CrAzY!!! We have one Vacation Bible School (Am I the only who thinks someone should come up with a cooler name? :) one camp, one mission trip, one fun youth trip, a reunion, a wedding, Jaxon's first birthday party, plus I'm teaching Kindergarten next year and will be preparing all summer! Whew-I'm tired just thinking about it!! Here are our last few days in pictures:

Happy First Mother's Day to Me!!! Jaxon smiling at me like this is priceless!!!

(I was trying to make him smile for the camera)
Jaxon's first trip to the lake. Aren't these swimming trunks adorable!

Jaxon watching daddy play basketball. I dressed him like he was going swimming even though I doubt I will ever put my little boy in a big yucky lake...he will have to wait until he is old enough to jump in :)

The loves of my life! By the way David has informed me that he thinks he has taken a step up to number 1 on Jaxon's favorite ladder. I let him think so ;)

"Praise the Lord"

We are trying to teach Jaxon to raise his hands to "praise the Lord." I was cracking up when he was eating this strawberry because he kept raising it to the sky as if to say "praise the Lord!"

FYI: Strawberries stain clothes :)

Jaxon in his "cage" is one of the cutest sights you will ever see! He likes to press his face against the side and make noises. By the way it is really a pack-n-play. We just call it his cage!

Classic Jaxon! This is his typical facial expression.

He and daddy were playing chase and he was coming to me for rescue.

Don't just love those Huggies? They are made to look like blue jeans!

The B-I-B-L-E yes that's the book for Jaxon! He has a ton of books and seems to enjoy looking at the pictures. I was trying to keep his little Toddler Bible put up and only let him look at when I read it to him because he likes to tear the pages. However, as you can I've lost the battle :)

What happened to my baby?!?

I was trying to get Jaxon to look up at me for a picture by making a loud crazy noise-this is the face I caught. It looks like he is saying, "I get it crazy lady-stop with the noises!"

Mother's Day 2010

This is how I spend most of my day :) He loves climbing up on me-he doesn't want me to pick him up though-he just wants to hold on to me.

The mustard bottle has become famous in our house. You will see it lying on the floor most days. Whenever we are in the kitchen I let Jaxon look in the fridge and "pick something" to explore and every time he chooses the mustard bottle. I'm not sure if it is the color or location in the fridge but it is his favorite. Some times I think he is trying to talk to it.

“You don’t have enough faith,” Jesus told them. “I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it would move. Nothing would be impossible." Matthew 17:20

Thanks for stopping by! We love you!!!

Just for fun!

2010-05-07T09:53:00.000-07:00

David gave me a new camera for Mother's Day! It works great!! I've been able to get pictures of Jaxon I could never get with my old camera...he moves too quick!!! Here are some pictures we've been taking just for fun! Jaxon wants to eat anything we are eating. Today it was a strawberry...and cutting a piece off for him would not due...he wanted the whole thing :)

Kisses! I love this picture David took!! Jaxon is giving me his version of a kiss. Usually I have to ask him several times for a kiss and then he will give in :) But he has just started giving me a kiss in the mornings when I take him out of his crib (I always kiss him on the cheek first and then he just dives in for a kiss without me asking) He is already such a sweetie!

I love these boys!! Jaxon loves sitting on David's shoulders and being outside!!

Caught ya! Jaxon has been getting into cabinets. There are a few I let him explore because there is nothing that will hurt him. He found these raisins in his food cabinet and before I knew it he had chewed a hole in the box and was eating raisins!!!

Look at this mischievous face!

Have a fabulous Friday!!

9 months old (part 2)

2010-05-05T18:59:00.000-07:00

Jaxon Pedro Valverde you are the love of our lives!! You bring us so much JOY!! At nine months old you are already a character. I'm afraid you act alot like your mama...happy most of the time but well we'll just passionate at other times :)
Here is what you are up to at 9 months:

Weight: 21 pounds 8 ounces 75th percentile
Height: 29 3/4 inches 90th percentile
Diapers: Size 4
Teeth: 8 with two starting to peak through
Clothes: 12 months
Food: You are a picky eater! You love whole wheat bagels, puffs, bananas, and avocados. You seldom eat baby food unless it is fruit or yogurt. You want to feed yourself! Dr. G said I could start giving you cow's milk instead of mama's milk. So far you like it but you still want mommy's milk so hopefully we can work out a compromise :)
What are people saying? You get all kinds of compliments on your hair, teeth, and bubbly personality!
Toys: Diego ball and anything that is not actually a toy (magazine, mustard container, cell phone)
Games: You love to play with daddy! Nobody can make you laugh as hard as he does. You're favorite game is "I'm gonna get you!" you crawl away as fast as you can but always stop to make sure we are close behind.
What can you do?: Stand on your own, give kisses, stick out your tongue, give high fives, wave bye-bye, crawl, say "dada" and "byebye"

Muscle man!
You are very observant and like to "pick" flowers and grass.

This is the passionate side of you I was talking about. You cry and make this sad sad face whenever you do not get what you want (like mom's new camera:)

You like to play with faces! You grab tongues, noses, and hair.

My heart melts when you look at me with those big brown eyes!

Jaxon you are an amazing little boy!!!

Publish his glorious deeds among the nations. Tell everyone about the amazing things he does. - 1 Chronicles 16.24 nlt

9 months old (part 1)

2010-05-05T14:08:00.000-07:00

Jaxon has learned to stick out his tongue

and how to give high fives!

We love you big nine month old!!!

Jaxon loves Sarah!

2010-04-23T20:08:00.000-07:00

Jaxon has a very sweet cousin named Sarah. She always sends him thoughtful cards and messages. Here is one of the latest :

Sarah and Jaxon February 2010

Sarah and Jaxon at Thanksgiving 2009

Sarah and Jaxon September 2009

Thank you Sarah for making Jaxon feel so special! I hope you know that you are truly a gift to our family and the world!! You are thoughtful, funny, and kind!! We love you and appreciate you!!!

Welcome Spring!

2010-04-20T17:45:00.000-07:00

Jaxon finally noticed the balloons at HEB! Every time we go I point them out to him put he usually is too busy watching people. Today he pointed to them with a wide open mouth!! So of course I HAD to get him one. Here he is sharing it with his daddy.
We went for a stroll this evening before bed time. We are trying to get Jaxon to sleep for longer periods at night. He is a great sleeper but still wakes up 1-2 times for mommy. I go in and get him back to sleep in about 5-10 minutes. He goes down around 8 and wakes up around 8 for the day. We don't believe in crying it out or I guess I should say it is not that we don't believe in it we just CAN'T do it!! There is no way we can let this little guy cry, we are both big softies!!!

So I read about an idea called "wearing down" you put your baby in a sling and walk around in the evening for about 30 minutes. We tried it tonight! We went for a little stroll and here we are with the wildflowers we picked. I had to convince David that it is not illegal to pick wildflowers-it's not illegal is it?!? I think he was just trying to get out of it :) Although once we got started he was hiking way back in the bushes to get "the perfect flower for his woman." He CRACKS me up!!!

SMILE Jesus loves you and so do the Valverde's!!!

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Sabrina

O Happy Days!

2010-04-17T17:40:00.000-07:00

It has been raining non-stop here for a week! Jaxon has really missed being outside but as you can tell he is still his happy self. I hope he always has the ability to keep his head up no matter what!!
Jaxon has several new games. He enjoys crawling away and letting us chase him. He laughs so hard and squeals every time!! He also likes taking our hands and pushing them together to make them clap. The first time he discovered he could do this was priceless. He laughed and then looked at me as if to say, "look what I can do!" The more he did it the more we laughed!!

He knows to smile for the camera! This day he would chew on his bowl and then stop and smile when I called his name to look up at the camera!!

Don't those PJ's make you want to HUG him?!?!

We hope you are having a HAPPY day full of love, peace, and laughter!!!

Smiles,

Sabrina

"Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!" Psalm 34:8

Go baby go!

2010-04-08T20:06:00.000-07:00

This will make you smile!

Have a great night!!

Sabrina

8 months old

2010-04-08T18:39:00.000-07:00

I have been trying for a few weeks to snap a decent picture of Jaxon by his "8 month" sign. However, he is too busy! This has definitely been an exciting month and I'm looking forward to what he will learn next!!

Jaxon! Here is what you have been up to:

Diapers: Size 4

Clothes: 6-9 months, 12 months

Activities:

-Crawling and pulling up

-Standing for a few seconds

-Clapping is still your favorite

-You wave bye-bye sometimes and today you said "bye" while waving (it may have been a coincidence but it counts in mama's book!)

-Talking (ba, ba, da, da) are your favorite "words"

- Kisses- you open your mouth wide and lean in for a smack...too sweet!!!

What people are saying? This month you have been getting compliments on your adorable hair which is sticking up nice and tall these days. Everyone raves how happy and handsome you are!!

We love watching you grow!! You are such a joy!!!

Swinging at the park (also one of your favorite activities)

Mommy made you a baby proof play area right in front of the windows. You really enjoy being outside so I thought it was appropriate for you to be able to look out anytime you want. You have already learned that you can pull up the pieces to your play mat and you love to chew on them :)Aunt Heather sent you a cool shirt that changes colors in the sun. It says "Savannah" on it. That is where she lives but only for a few more days. She said she was moving back to Texas because she has been a very neglectful aunt because she has only seen you once since you were born. She feels very sorry for this and plans to spend the rest of her life making it up to you. I think she promised you college tuition or something...you will have to check with her on that when you are a little older ;)

"Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long." Psalm 25:5

Smiles, Sabrina

Happy Easter!

2010-04-06T18:36:00.000-07:00

Jaxon enjoyed putting the Easter eggs in his mouth!
CUTIE!

Surprisingly hats don't bother Jax. He might have taken it off three times.

Nonni and Jaxon's Easter Bunny Cake

Nonni and Jaxon

Daddy and Jaxon

Mommy and Jaxon

Our first Easter as a family was great! Jaxon enjoyed hunting for eggs and loved playing with Nonni all weekend. Easter is such a refreshing time of year. It is a reminder to celebrate Jesus!! I tried to take time to slow down and reflect on the cross and the resurrection. What debt I owed!!

"He was despised and rejected-a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief. We turned our backs on him and looked the other way. He was despised, and we did not care. Yet it was our weaknesses he carried; it was our sorrows that weighed him down. And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God a punishment for his own sins! But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole He was whipped so we could be healed. All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left God's paths to follow our own. Yet the Lord laid on him the sins of us all." Isaiah 53:3-6

Smiles,

Sabrina

Nonni came to town!

2010-03-23T18:39:00.000-07:00

Nonni came to visit for a few days and we were all spoiled. I didn't have to cook, David got to eat some of his favorite foods, and of course Jaxon got to be the center of attention! My camera was not working so I didn't get any pictures of her with Jaxon :(!!

Jaxon has the best Nonni in the world and I have the best mama in the whole world :)!!!

She is giving, loving, and wise!!! We LOVE you Nonni!!!

After Nonni left we took Jaxon to the beach to cheer ourselves up :)

(this was his first visit)

His hair blowing in the wind!
Sweet Feet!

He wasn't sure what to think, but he eventually grabbed a handful of sand. He just stared at it in his hand.

We stopped on the way home and took the classic bluebonnet pictures!

He knows to smile for the camera!

Shhhh! He picked it himself.

Cheese!

CUTIE!
I wish I knew what Jaxon was thinking!!

He has learned that clapping gets him lots of attention!!

A mouth full of teeth!

I love my family!

Yay!!!!

*Smiles,

Sabrina

I think I can!

2010-03-18T18:37:00.000-07:00

Jaxon has been working on this skill for quite some time! I love this video for many reasons. I love Jaxon's grunts and groans, I love David's laughter in the background (David has the most contagious laugh!), I love listening to us cheer him on. The Lord has truly blessed our little family!

"What can I offer the Lord for all he has done for me?" Psalm 116:12

Smiles,

Sabrina

Time for a new hat!

2010-03-17T19:35:00.000-07:00

I promised my aunt that I would update more often and I have not been doing a very good job!

Jaxon is pulling up, he "crawls" backwards ( I put crawl in quotes because he just inches his way back by pushing off of his arms:), he has 7 teeth and is eating a variety of solids. He doesn't much like finger foods (rice rusks, puffs, and bananas are all he has tried). Yesterday, he did eat a banana and made a big mess!

It may be hard to imagine but Jaxon eating a banana is one of the most exciting things that has happened around here lately! We have had many doctors appointments the last few weeks and have tried staying home as much as possible! David and I do have guy/girl events on Saturday with the teenagers that we have been busily preparing. Both should be fun and engaging for the students. David is still plugging away at school and I love the fact that his degree plan now lists May 2011 as his graduation date...YIPPPPEEEE! I've begun looking for a teaching job for next school year and am praying for the perfect caregiver for Jaxon. Jaxon loves being outside! Swinging outside has become a part of our daily routine.
Here he is wearing his Spurs hat at 7 months old and

here he is wearing it at 3 weeks!

Wow! How time flies!!

Are you tired? I find myself being tired lately...not so much physically tired but emotionally tired! Being a mom is overwhelming at times, being a pastor's wife can be lonely ("loved by many, known by few" Holly Furtick), being a servant can be discouraging. I find myself feeling so burdened about the spiritual needs all around me.

The song "Follow You"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ajIFfSaEzE

has been kicking my booty lately. Every time I hear it I want it to be true of me...I just know that it isn't! I read blogs where everyone seems to have all the answers to all of Christianity's problems...they know exactly what we should all be doing and how we should do it and where we should do it and why what we are doing is not working... and I think...really...that's it...you've solved it (please note my sarcasm). "They" may have solved it but I'm still working on "love thy neighbor as thy thyself!"

What about you? What are you tired of?!

"But while knowledge makes us feel important, it is love that strengthens the church. Anyone who claims to know all the answers doesn't really know very much. But the person who loves God is the one whom God recognizes." 1 Corinthians 8:1-3

Smiles and lots of love,

Sabrina

7 months old

2010-03-07T20:01:00.000-08:00

Sweet Jaxon! This month can be summed up by the pictures below! You have been so busy!! I will fill you in on a few details and then let you take a look for yourself.

Diapers: an impressive size 4

Weight: 20 lbs 5 oz (75 percentile)

Favorites: Clapping! You have been clapping since you were about 6.5 months. You use your new skill to get mommy's attention :)

Teeth: 6!! Daddy calls you a piranha because you like to bite our shoulders :)

What are people saying? Well this month you have been getting googly eyes from all of the ladies! They always comment on your faux hawk and big brown eyes. No one can resist that big toothy grin of yours. Mommy spends an extra 30 minutes in the grocery store each trip because so many people stop to say what a sweet thing you are.

Something neat: A few days ago you and I were shopping at Wal-Mart. A kind lady passed by and you looked up and smiled for no apparent reason (Daddy says your default face is a smile :). She told me that she could tell by your smile that God was going to use you in a special way. I told her that that is what I pray for you each and every night! She then prayed a wonderful prayer for your life...right in the middle of the aisle!! Jaxon- you are one special boy!!!

It is getting difficult to take your picture!

You are very interested in well EVERYTHING!

This was as still as you got!

"I'll take this!"

Your first time to wave "bye-bye" at the right time. We were leaving church. I'm so glad I had my camera!

You love to lay on your side propped up by your elbow...so cute!

Oh, yes you can now pull up on the side of your crib. It scares me everytime I walk in and find you like this!! Child proofing here we come!

One of your favorite times of day is when we "praise the Lord". I put you in your crib, give you a shaker, and turn on your Bible songs CD. You shake, bounce, and of course smile!

You really enjoy swinging at the park.

WHEEEEEEE!!!

We love you Jax-Jax!

Before I go I want to share something that has been impressed upon me lately. Jaxon was born in July. Since witnessing the miracle of life- I have been evaluating so many aspects of life.

I have been studying the scriptures on certain issues and having many late night talks with Dave on various topics (who by the way is the most awesome and humble person I have ever known-he is so wise and so passionate about Jesus. One of David's grad. prof's summed him up perfectly in red ink on the top of one of his papers, "You have a unique ability for deep spiritual insight."-gosh I love that man!).

Anyways, lately when I hear of earthquakes or children dying of cancer I so long for the day when we are safe at home with Jesus. Suffering is one of those tough questions in life and the only answer is that Jesus is our HOPE! I pray that if you are reading this you have that Hope! He will sustain us on the roller coaster of life!!

"But as for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, and he will stand upon the earth at last. And after my body has decayed, yet in my body I will see God! I will see him for myself. Yes, I will see him with my own eyes. I am overwhelmed at the thought!" Job 19:25-27

Smiles,

Sabrina

What's New?

2010-02-21T19:43:00.000-08:00

Appreciating nature!
First "dirty" feet from playing in the dirt

Daddy and Jaxon always wrestling!

Hmmmm...what can I grab next?

Awww!

His funny face! He always makes a scrunched up face when I kiss those juicy cheeks!!

LOVE!

My hunky chunky little man!

We matched for church today!

I hope you have enjoyed your weekend. Jaxon has been busy, busy, busy! The weather has been great and he loves being outdoors. He has four teeth now. The last one really bothered him and I'm thankful he has had some relief! He has been pushing up on all fours so I sense that crawling is around the corner! Where has the time gone!?!

I wish that I could articulate all that the Lord has been doing in my heart since becoming a mother. I simply can not describe the personal growth I have experienced because of this incredible little guy!! In my next post I might just try to verbalize these feelings...hmmm...should be interesting...I try not to stray to far from the mommy blogger genre. I guess if it is about being a mommy that still applies! Ha!

I'll sign off with this quote from the Beth Moore Bible Study series I'm attending:

"When God desires to do " a new thing", He purposely seeks out a few righteous renegades who don't have a problem breaking the mold! Mold breakers are usually people who don't care much about popularity or tradition."

What "new thing" is God doing in you?

Lots of Love and Sweet Smiles!

Sabrina

Isaiah 43:19

"For I am about to do something new.

See, I have already begun! Do you not see it?

I will make a pathway through the wilderness.

I will create rivers in the dry wasteland."

Laughter is the best medicine!!

2010-02-13T13:06:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-12T17:58:00.000-08:00

Mama's handsome boy!

He has stole our hearts...te he te he

This how he spent most of our little photo shoot

LOVE!
And this was his way of telling me he was done! He has the saddest cry!!!

Jaxon and I had a fun time trying to snap pictures for our handmade valentine's. The pictures are done but as of 7:38pm on Saturday night only a few cards :(...so some of you will be getting our Happy Valentine's Day wishes later in the week!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

FROM: DAVID, SABRINA, AND JAXON

WE LOVE YOU!!!

Jaxon's first story time

2010-02-09T20:22:00.000-08:00

Jaxon had a great day! He went to story time at the library. He sang songs, practiced his creative expression with scarves :), and played with toys and other toddlers. I loved watching him watch the leader and other kids. He is very observant. After storytime we went to the church to see the high school students and TLC gang. He loves all the attention he gets!! We came home and he took a little nap. We played and Jaxon practiced crawling...he is not really that interested :). Finally, we went to the basketball game. Jaxon usually loves to bounce and watch the ball go back and forth. However, tonight he was pretty cranky. His FOURTH tooth is coming in and he is not happy about it!!

I hope you each had a great day also! Stay warm!!

Smiles,

Sabrina

This will make your week!

2010-02-02T20:22:00.000-08:00

" A cheerful heart is good medicine!" Proverbs 17:22

Jaxon is my medicine!!!

Love you all!

6 months old

2010-02-02T18:18:00.000-08:00

JAXON

We love you more than words! You have the sweetest smile and most contagious laugh. Everywhere we go people comment on your bright eyes, big smile, and friendly personality. Strangers and friends often ask, "Is he always this happy?" and comment "He is going to be such a heartbreaker!" You have been doing many new things this past month. You swung on a swing at the park and eat all kinds of baby food. Here are some other things you have been up to:

Height: 27 3/4 inches (95th percentile)

Weight: 19 lbs 14 oz (95th percentile)

Diapers: Size 3

Clothes: 6-9 months and some 9-12 months

Favorite Song: "He's got the whole world in His hands" it works like magic! I sang it to you while you were getting your shots and you didn't cry until the third one!

Favorite Activity: Bouncing!!

What makes you laugh? Mom and Dad being silly!! You will chuckle over and over when mom does a silly dance or dad talks in one of his silly voices!!

Every night before you go to sleep Daddy quotes this blessing from Numbers 6: "May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace."

We love you bounce, bounce baby!!!

Smiles,

Sabrina

"I am counting on the Lord; yes, I am counting on him. I have put my hope in his word."

Psalm 130:5

Busy, BUSY, bUsY!!!

2010-02-02T17:15:00.000-08:00

We have been very busy around the Valverde house and that is how I like it! If you know me you know that I have to be doing something. Here are a few pictures of what we have been up to:

Early every morning David reads Jaxon a Bible story while Jaxon tries to chew on the pages :)

He has finally started fitting into some of the cute shoes he has been given.

More new shoes!

Jaxon loves being outside. Last week the weather was perfect for working on my little flower garden. As you can see Jaxon enjoyed "walking" on the dead leaves.

David needed new shoes so he decided it was time for Jaxon to have his first pair of Jordan's. Too cute!
Jaxon has been sporting a mohawk these days. His hair stands straight up and his incredibly fuzzy.

There is nothing cuter than Jaxon taking a bath in this duck!! He loves it! He just plays and splashes around...so sweet!

Sorry it has been so long since I last updated! February is a super busy month but I promise to update more this month! Thanks for checking up on us!!

Love you all!

Shine!

Sabrina

"So my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless." 1 Cor. 15:58

My boys!

2010-01-17T19:01:00.000-08:00

We have finally recovered from our Christmas vacation. Jaxon is (thankfully!) back into his routine and only waking up once at night...yippee!!! David recently took Jaxon to his first basketball game. He loved it! He just bounced around and from what I hear he made friends with everyone he met :)

His shirt says, "I'll send you home crying to your mommy." Too cute! Thanks Aunt Gin!

Aren't they handsome?!! (Jaxon is drooling so much!)

I'm not sure who is having more fun?!

David started a new study at church on Sunday nights for parents. The first night was tonight and I really enjoyed it! One of the topics we discussed was how we can apply Deuteronomy 6:5-9

"5 And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength. 6 And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. 7 Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. 8 Tie them to your hands and wear them on your forehead as reminders. 9 Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates."

Here are some of the words of wisdom I obtained from other (much more experienced :) parents.

1. Pray with your kids

2. Be 100% available

3. Seize the "teachable moments" as an opportunity to "give them Jesus"

I love the phrase David coined, "give them Jesus." It just speaks to the idea that in every faucet of life there is way that Jesus can be involved because He is life. So point that out and pursue it with your child.

Have a super Sunday!!

Love!

Sabrina

5 months old

2010-01-02T19:28:00.000-08:00

Jaxon turned 5 months old on Thursday. I just now (Saturday) got around to taking his picture.

(oh yes..apparently I'm stuck in 09 ;)

Jaxon! As I start to type your 5 month report all I can do is smile! You have the cutest personality, brightest eyes, and a smile for everyone. When I was pregnant with you I prayed daily that you would be a light in this dark world, that you would shine from the inside out, that you would bring joy to everyone you met. And each night as I rock you to sleep I thank God that even at 5 months old you are already doing those things! You bring people closer to God especially me!! How can we help it!? You are a picture of His handiwork, His grace and love, His miraculous and mysterious ways!! Here is what you are up to:

Weight and Height: unsure, we will find out at your next check up
Diapers: Size 3
Favorite Toys: Red Car, Bounce-Bounce Baby, anything that you can put in your mouth
Favorite Activity: You love to stand and bounce on mom and dad's lap (or any one's lap for that matter)
What surprises us most about you?: You are strong! When you were getting your Christmas pictures taken the photographer kept laughing because when you started bouncing on her lap she began falling forward.
Our favorite thing you do: Chuckle! You laugh at everything!! It is actually more of a rolling chuckle. You love to be talked to and are very sociable. You reward anyone who pays attention to you with a big smile, squeal, or coo.
Milestones achieved: Sit without support (unless you get too excited..then you fall in the direction of the excitement :), rolling over from back to front and front to back, you have two bottom teeth, you eat cereal from a spoon, you grab everything and look for dropped objects and so much more!

Picture of the month! You have discovered your toes can go in your mouth..you've been trying so hard to get them there and you finally did it...we are so proud of are hardworking boy ;)!

"Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God." Philippians 1:3

We love you "sweetest boy in the world" (that is our nickname for you..ha!)

SHINE!!

Sabrina

Jaxon's First Christmas!

2010-01-02T18:39:00.000-08:00

As you can probably guess, we had a wonderful Christmas! It was fun for us to watch Jaxon explore and interact with the presents, toys, and our family. He truly brings joy to everyone! He is such a happy baby...but more about that in the next post :) Here is our Christmas in pictures..

Daddy and Jaxon unwrapping presents for the first time
Aren't they cute?

Jaxon's new ride...a gift from Nonni

His shirt is so fitting! Nonni certainly went all out for Jaxon's first Christmas!

Jaxon loves his tia and cousin Kaleub!

Mommy trying to hold Jaxon still for pictures..I wasn't very successful!

Tia Teresa and Jaxon (doesn't he look so handsome!)

Jaxon loves laughing with Nana

and flying with Aunt Gin!

We were able to spend some time with some wonderful life long friends. The handsome two year old is their son, Bryson. He kept pointing at Jaxon and saying "Baby"...too cute!!!

Our first Christmas as a family of three!

This picture says it all!

We would like to wish you a new year full of peace, joy, hope, love, and wonderful memories! 2009 was great because we shared it with you and we are looking forward to 2010!!

Our prayer for you this year:

"May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace." Numbers 6:24-26

Shine,

Sabrina

I love my family!

2009-12-30T19:13:00.000-08:00

A Sneak Peek

2009-12-14T17:35:00.000-08:00

Here is a sneak peek of Jaxon's Christmas pictures! They were all so adorable I couldn't just pick one so let's just say I gave myself a ton of pictures of Jaxon for Christmas :) I didn't even post the best ones...I'm saving those until after Christmas because many of you will be getting a picture of Jaxon and I want it to be a surprise :)!!!

And this is what Jaxon has been doing lately! Every time I try to change his diaper he grabs his legs. This also keeps him entertained in his crib for a little while after he wakes up. I love those chunky legs!!!

I hope you are enjoying this Christmas season. I am so thankful for what it means and this Christmas I'm especially grateful for Mary's sacrifice!

"Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased."

Luke 2:14

Shine,

Sabrina

Yummy!

2009-12-06T19:37:00.000-08:00

Our BIG boy!

2009-12-05T19:37:00.000-08:00

Jaxon tried rice cereal for the first time this evening. He seemed to like it. He had a runny nose and it was getting close to bed time but he did great. We think he is going to be a good eater!!

"So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." I Cor. 10:31

Smiles,

Sabrina

Jaxon is 4 months old!

2009-12-04T13:25:00.000-08:00

I can't believe Jaxon is already 4 months old!

Here is what you are up to:

ou have your first tooth! November 30,2009 your bottom left tooth appeared. That explains why you chew on everything! Your favorite chew toys are your fingers :) and you look so cute when you suck your thumb.

Weight: 18 lbs 2 oz ("off the chart")

Height: 25 1/2 inches ("off the chart")

You wear size 3 diapers.

You wear mostly 6-9 month and some 3-6 month clothes.

You like to play in your bounce bounce baby exersaucer.

You can sit unassisted for a little while.

You like to watch TV with Daddy (ESPN mostly:) and you like to sing with Mommy.

You love for Daddy to play with you and you love for Mommy to rock you.

We love watching you smile! You smile all of the time especially in the morning!

We love to hear you laugh!!

We are so proud to be your parents. We love you, squeeze you, kiss you, and pray for you everyday!!!

It's Beginning to Look alot like Christmas!

2009-12-02T21:29:00.000-08:00

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas! It is amazing how much a baby adds to the excitement of Christmas. Not to mention the humble feelings that come when meditating on the meaning of Christmas and the fact that Mary also gave up her Son for me. Wow!

Mommy showing Jaxon our Christmas tree!
Daddy letting Jaxon put the star on the tree (okay not really he's only 4 months old:).We plan for this to be our tradition!

Jaxon stocking from www.merrystockings.com

My sleepy Santa!

Isn't he precious!

I'm so thankful to be celebrating this Christmas as a family of three!!

Tomorrow we will get some professional pictures of Jaxon in his Christmas outfit. As you can see Mom's photography skills are lacking to say the least :)

Holly Jolly Smiles!

Sabrina

"...but Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often." Luke 2:19

Jaxon's first Thanksgiving!

2009-11-29T19:27:00.000-08:00

Jaxon loved visiting our family over Thanksgiving! He had a big smile and giggle for everyone he met. He was shaked, rattled, and rolled for two days straight...and he handled it like a champ.

Jaxon, Jesus, and Angel

Jaxon with Tio Hondo and Tia JanieJaxon and Tio Sam

Jaxon and Tio Roland
Jaxon with Tia Mimi and Cousin Karson

Jaxon and Cousin SarahJaxon and Aunt Wendy

Jaxon, Uncle Johnny and Cousin EmilyJaxon and Cousin Gary

Abuelaita and Tia Yaya

Jaxon and Cousin Kendra

Jaxon and Aunt Gina

Jaxon and Nana (his great grandma)

Jaxon's first hand-made gift. The body of the turkey is his thumbprint. He "made" it in Sunday School :)

Jaxon and Nonni

I love my family!

Jaxon and Mommy

Jaxon and Daddy

Our family is eccletic and I love it! We are brown, white, big, little, old, young, middle class, broke, married, divorced,shy, outgoing, kind, and grumpy!

Our houses are small and our hearts are big!!

I couldn't ask for a better family for my son to be a part of!

"The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving." Psalm 28:7

Smile! We each have so much to be thankful for!!

Sabrina

Nothing to Lose

2009-11-23T20:38:00.000-08:00

I was listening to this song tonight while out on my nightly trip to the store just to get out of the house so I don't go insane from being inside all day car ride and realized the lyrics describe my heart's desire. I haven't always felt this way. However, I can now say that I have reached the point in my faith where I feel completely safe and secure in the Lord and I attempt to view everything from an eternal perspective. It is beyond freeing!

Nothing To Lose

We come returning all the things we can’t keep

We’ve spent all our time chasing empty things

We come returning all the earthly treasures

We’re setting our hearts on eternity

What good is it for man

To gain the world only to spend

Eternity from You

In You Lord; there’s nothing to lose, Lord

Our hope and our future is safe and secure with You

We come believing, that Your word will endure

Though the earth should pass we know our hope is sure

We come believing , past the grave we live

Losing it all we gain more than we could give

For You Lord, may all that we live for

Bring Glory and honor,

In You Lord; there’s nothing to lose, Lord

Our hope and our future is safe and secure with You

The band who wrote and performs this song is amazing!

www.branchmusic.org

There's a first time for everything!

2009-11-19T07:39:00.000-08:00

A first time to wear a Spurs outfit complete with a backwards cap (just like Daddy wears his)!
A first time to wear adidas socks (ok I know that is a stretch but I just love those chunky legs)!

A first time to suck your thumb!

A first time to roll over and get your leg stuck in the crib slate!

A first time in your bounce bounce baby exersaucer!

A first time to fall asleep on mommy (well, this was the first in a long time anyway :) You like being rocked again! But only in this position...if I cradle you...you scream!

A first time to be taller than daddy! You love this game!! Daddy gets on his knees and holds you above him... you just laugh and laugh!!

A first time to discover you can chew on something other than your hands!

A first time to hold yourself steady while sitting up (for just a few seconds but mommy saw it)!

*mommy note: not sure if that really counts ;)

A first time to wear a robe!

I love noticing all of the little firsts in Jaxon's life. If you notice he is wearing the same outfit in most pictures...several of them happened on the same day. He just keeps growing and so does mommy (in a different way:)! Here is a verse from Ecclesiastes that I thought of while I was typing this...

"For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven."

The next few verses go on to talk about all of the things that there is a time for: a time to be born, a time to die, a time to laugh, a time to grieve, a time to dance, a time to cry, a time to love. I don't always understand and I sometimes resent God's timing. Other times (like the time to laugh part) I accept eagerly.

However, the more I learn about Him, the more I trust Him and the more I realize that, as Solomon said, God's purpose for us goes beyond life and death. Live life to the fullest knowing that death isn't the end. My purpose in life is to bring glory to God in the good times and the bad times. This understanding gets me off of the roller coaster ride of life and puts me on the lazy river in a bright yellow inner tube.

Peace!

Sabrina

Roly Poly Randomness

2009-11-15T20:24:00.000-08:00

Our baby is getting so BIG! I found this old clip and had to put it up. This was taken August 28th, Jax wasn't even a month old!

Jaxon has been working on rolling over for a very long time. November 12th he finally did it!! We were playing on my bed and he just rolled over...like it was no big deal! Usually he stretches and twists but never gets anywhere. He did it again the next day!

We are so in love with our little Roly Poly!!

On a personal note:

If you know me you know I'm a planner. I have already been thinking and praying about next year. To teach or not to teach? Should I go back to work or try to stay home until Jaxon goes to school? Here is the verse I've been meditating on...I think it answers my questions.

"Don't worry about your life, what you will eat; or about the body, what you will wear. for life is more than food and the body more than clothing. Consider the ravens: they don't sow or reap; they don't have a storeroom or a barn; yet God feeds them. Aren't you worth much more than the birds?" Luke 12:22-24

I love God's economy.

Have a super smiley day!

Sabrina

Casa Hogar de Ninos Camargo, Mexico

2009-11-07T22:00:00.000-08:00

I have been anxiously looking forward to the Christmas season since last year because I was excited to return to the orphanage we visited last Christmas. However, for several reasons it has been decided that we can not return this year. H1N1 and violence are the main reasons. Our sources tell us that the violence is not any worse than it was last year it is just that the media has begun highlighting it now more than ever.

Last night we watched a promotional picture slide show sent by Pastor Luna, the founder of the orphanage. I was in tears! I remember so many of their sweet little faces. This year David will be taking presents for each child and worker donated by our generous church family. It will not be the same. While cleaning and organizing closets for the chicos desordenados (messy boys :),we noticed how very little most of them had. However, while we were there we noticed what they wanted the most was affection. We were amazed at how eagerly they welcomed a hug!! We will not be able to give them that this year and that saddens me. Please pray along with us for these children. Pray specifically that they will feel the joy and peace provided by Christ this Christmas season!! Here are some pictures from last year:

Here I am trying to explain in very broken Spanish an art activity. Thankfully the kit had instructions in Spanish..ha!! Once I realized that, I just read straight from the paper!! I was amazed at how much they loved these activities and how diligently they worked. It reminded me of how we take so much for granted. Whenever I teach here I have to prepare twice as many activities just to keep kids entertained! I also take heating for granted!! It was sooo cold and guess what no heaters!! The girls dorm was the only room with heat. We were working in the kitchen with four outside walls. I was freezing, 6 weeks pregnant and so nauseous. Which also reminds me of how thankful I am for the sweet ladies who took care of me when morning sickness attacked!!

The gang posed at the entrance of the orphanage right before we said, "Adios!" We were so tired! Everybody played and worked hard!! I can't wait to go back!!!

"...but the angel reassured them. "Don't be afraid!" he said. "I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people." Luke 2:10

Smiles!

Sabrina

P.S. In other "Spanish" news we have begun intentionally immersing Jaxon in the Spanish language...well at least a little every day...not sure if you could quite call it "immersion" but we will see how my little experiment goes. David speaks it to him plus he watches a little bit of this DVD every day. I like it because it doesn't translate from English to Spanish, which actually makes it more confusing when the foundation of language learning is beginning. It is all in Spanish with lots of repetion and adorable actions. The little panda explains what is going on in Spanish. I'm learning too!! Here is the program we are using: www.littlepim.com

I heart Jaxon!

2009-11-06T12:42:00.000-08:00

I can't get enough of you baby...!!!

"Children are a gift from the Lord..." Psalm 127:3a

SURPRISE

2009-11-05T20:09:00.000-08:00

Jaxon has the sweetest great aunts in the whole wide world!! He has received 2 surprises in the mailbox this week.

Surprise Number One came from Aunt Gina! Jaxon loved his first halloween card. He thinks Aunt Gina is one sweet lady!!! Thank you so much!

Surprise number two came from Tia Yaya! Jaxon loved his new shoes and big boy clothes. Daddy says he looks so grown up in his new outfit! Jaxon thinks his Tia Yaya is the coolest gal around!!! Thank you!!!

THREE MONTHS

With all of the Halloween excitement Mom almost forgot that you are now THREE months old! Every day I thank God for you!! You are our precious miracle. You bring us love and joy every day!!! You didn't have a well child check up this month so this is a "mommy only" report.

Here is what you are doing at three months.

You love to laugh! You laugh the most when you fly through the air. You are becoming a great sleeper. Mommy is sad because you don't like to be rocked much anymore. You love to be walked!! Daddy spends lots of his time walking up and down the hall trying to help you sleep. You are waking up from naps because you want to roll over but you haven't quite figured it out. This is a picture mommy snapped when she heard you "grunting" during nap time:

You are almost there. You are trying to use the crib slate to pull yourself over ;) What a smart baby!!!

Here is one of my favorite pictures of the week:

We are so proud to be your mommy and daddy! We love you Jaxonator!!!

Smiles,

Sabrina

Let the traditions begin...

2009-11-02T13:34:00.000-08:00

Our first trip to the pumpkin patch was perfect! We visited Cooper's Garden Place near Poth, TX and plan to return every year. Mr. "Cooper" was very friendly and let mommy and daddy move the pumpkins wherever we wanted. We had fun propping you up next to all kinds of pumpkins.

"Somebody get me outta here!"

"Hmm..what's this?"

Daddy showing you what a pumpkin is...he's so goofy!

Me and You!

The pumpkins we picked!

Daddy Pumpkin (One too many)

Mommy Pumpkin (Fairytale)

Baby Pumpkin (little jack)

We love you little Pumpkin! In three months you have filled our lives with more joy than we could have ever imagined. Next year we will let you pick out your very own pumpkin!

I can't explain how full my heart is! I have always dreamed of being a mom. When we visited the pumpkin patch...it was one of those moments that kind of hit me...WOW! I'm a mom, this is my family and I'm beyond blessed!!! Have you ever had one of those moments?

Smiles,

Sabrina

This is a verse that David often quotes when we are out driving or walking and see something, usually in nature, that amazes us...

"The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it". Psalm 24:1

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-01T21:49:00.001-08:00

Jaxon dressed up as a giraffe (or should I say we dressed him up :)

Check out his adorable tail!

Halloween Treats!

2009-10-30T19:53:00.000-07:00

Here are the final products from all of the baking. We made cupcakes for all of daddy's staff friends at church. We made cake balls for our neighbors and Jaxon's Sunday School teachers.

We made cupcakes and buckeyes for a sweet family from church. The mom is a fabulous photographer and recently gifted us with family portraits (we can't wait to see how they turned out!)! The buckeyes are gluten free and I posted a link to the recipe...they are yummy.

http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Buckeyes-I/Detail.aspx

The treat tags are a picture of Jaxon in his Halloween costume, holding a sign that says, "Just because you are so SWEET we made you a Halloween TREAT!" It took several tries to get a shot were the sign AND his face were visible.

After alot of this....

we have a winner!

Have we told you how much we love you? Thanks so much for stopping by to check on us! Love you all!!!

Smiles,

Sabrina

"So my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for your know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless." 1 Cor. 15:58

Trick or Treat?

2009-10-29T22:01:00.000-07:00

I love to bake. However, it often turns into one big mess. Over the years I have become very creative when it comes to salvaging baked goods.

I have learned many "tricks" on how to make yummy "treats"!

So in true Sabrina style my Halloween baking went from a wonderful idea:

Looks good right!

http://www.kraftfoods.com/kf/recipes/great-pumpkin-cake-65453.aspx

was so prepared! I took a picture of the ingredients and was ready for the perfect end result...

...but then the cake stuck to the pan, I tried to fix it with frosting and you can see how that went

So this became

this... which then became

THIS!

What is it? CAKE BALLS and they are YUMMY!!

Another new recipe I discovered (and no I didn't get it right the first time either :)

http://kellyskornerrecipes.blogspot.com/search/label/Dessert

All is well that ends well!

Halloween Happenings

2009-10-29T21:37:00.000-07:00

We have been very busy getting ready for Halloween. We don't really like all of the ghosts and witches but sure love dressing up! Jaxon has the cutest costume and "helped" mommy make treats for friends.

Jaxon doesn't think he is grouchy but he loves his Oscar the Grouch socks from Nonni

"Let's go get some treats!"

Milestones

2009-10-25T20:03:00.000-07:00

Jaxon has reached two new milestones. At almost 3 months he now reaches for and swats at hanging toys. He also loves his hands. He looks at them, naws on them, and plays with them constantly. I love watching him "explore" his God given "toys"!

I must say I'm kind of sad about the other milestone. I don't know if it is really considered a milestone but for me it is. He won't cuddle with me anymore! At least he won't lay still. He just picks his nosy little head up and peeks around at everything. Here is a picture of us after playing airplane. Airplane is new favorite game. The other day mommy forgot that she had just fed her little pumpkin (we usually play right before his mid morning meal) he let out the cutest little laugh and just as he was landing he SPAT UP! All over mommy!!

Hope everyone is doing great! Leave us a comment to let us know what's going on in your world!!

Wishing you a super Sunday!

Smiles,

Sabrina

Forget eharmony

2009-10-18T21:38:00.000-07:00

"Wife Needed, Very Pretty,Very Catholic"

We saw this sign hanging outside of a house on our way back from the band contest Saturday. Yes, it is real!

We slowed down long enough to take a picture then quickly sped off.

Who needs eharmony when you have a piece of wood and some spray paint?!?!

*By the way our band got a 1 at the contest...way to go Longhorn Band!

Blogging Around

2009-10-18T21:09:00.000-07:00

Saturday we went out to eat as a family for the first time. We had taken little J out a few times in a large group but this was our first time with just the three of us. Little J sat contently in his carrier taking in all the sights and smells. David was happy as well because there was a buffet. When I confessed AGAIN my hatred of buffets -David AGAIN expressed to me that hating a buffet was like hating to breathe (as you can tell we have had this conversation many times :).

My two favorite dudes at the Butterchurn Restauraunt in Sinton,TX

Just an interesting side note: I think I have clicked on 78 different blogs tonight (not really that many but you get my drift). I'm just now getting into the blog world and it is amazing how I've gotten sucked in so easily. I start reading one thing and then another. I keep reading all of these heart wrenching stories and am reminded of God's sovereignty in all things. It is humbling, inspiring, and challenging at the same time to read about people who are enduring so much yet remaining so faithful.

Bumbo Baby

2009-10-16T16:35:00.000-07:00

**If you are wondering why I'm writing to Jaxon...it is because I hope to make a book out of our blog that is about him :) A friend of mine told me about a website www.blurb.com where you can turn your blog into a book. It's kind of like the busy mom's scrapbook!

Yesterday (10/15/09) was your first day to try the Bumbo! At first you were surprised to be sitting up so tall and strong. Then you began to smile and laugh. Mommy knew right away that you loved your new toy!

Here are some of Mommy and Daddy's favorite Bumbo pictures.

The jacket says "future quarterback" but Dr. Guthrie says you will probably be a guard :)

" I like to move it, move it!!"

"I'm a big boy!"

Good Morning!

2009-10-15T07:37:00.000-07:00

Good Morning!

Jaxon is all smiles and coos each morning. He is such a happy baby!

Two Month Check Up

2009-10-12T18:48:00.000-07:00

Exhausted after getting shots :(

Jaxon, you did great at your 2 month check up! Mommy and Daddy were so nervous about you getting shots. You cried a little but handled it like a big boy. Dr. Guthrie said you look like a little sumo and that you are as healthy as can be! You have been growing and learning so much the last month.

Here is what you are doing at two months old:

You weigh 15 pounds 5 Ounces.

You are 25 inches long.

You are getting very strong.

You hold your head up well and can push up on your arms while laying on your tummy.

You even hold weight on your legs for a short time.

You have the sweetest smile and the cutest laugh.

Mommy and Daddy spend most of their day watching you!

Morning time is your favorite time to laugh and nap.

The evening is when you like to play.

Your favorite toy is your crib mobile. In fact Mommy and Daddy bought you a new one today!

Here are some of Mommy's favorite pictures from the week!

Daddy getting you dressed for our first family portrait

Playing with Daddy (your favorite!)

It's a small world after all!

2009-10-09T21:11:00.000-07:00

Tonight we took our first family portraits. They were the traditional -tilt your head and smile kind but it was our FIRST family portrait and that made it special! Jaxon cried in between shots but we were all smiles with our new little cutie by our side. I purchased two of the slightly awkward, overpriced portraits for a memento.

After pictures we met up with two sweet families from church for dinner. Over dinner we were surprised to find that one of the guys new a girl we had grown up with in our small,not on the map town. What a small world! And this is not the first time this has happened!

We briefly discussed how we all knew each other and moved on with dinner. However, I stopped to think. What if somewhere in some other small town people were having dinner and my name came up?

I wonder what would be said about me. What about you-what would be said about you?

Not that we should spend our lives worrying about what others are saying about us. However, I do want to have a good reputation.

I have these verses underlined in my Bible.

" Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart. Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will earn a good reputation." Proverbs 3: 3&4

Hope you had a fabulous Friday!

Smiles,

Sabrina

Did I mention I can't get enough of my little guy?

2009-10-08T11:36:00.000-07:00

10/8/09

9 weeks old

Jaxon fell asleep on Mommy after he finished eating around 11:30am. He almost never falls asleep after nursing anymore. I think last night got the best of him! He had his first true experience of life as a youth pastor's kid. We had a girls night for the youth girls last night. It lasted longer than the usual Wednesday night service and then we had clean up afterwards. He handled it extremely well and finally fell asleep once we got home. Okay, this is the last post for the day. I do have other things to do with my life :)!

Have a terrific Thursday!

Smiles!

Sabrina

Grumpy or Happy?

2009-10-08T10:38:00.000-07:00

Jaxon at almost 2 months

Jaxon woke up from his nap. I went in to try to put the pacy in his mouth in order to help him fall back to sleep. He then began smiling at me. He does this so often that this time I took the Flip with me!

Smiling with Daddy

2009-10-08T08:24:00.000-07:00

Yeah! I finally learned how to upload videos. I have many more coming so check back soon!

Jaxon at 1 month old. He loves to smile and he LOVES his daddy!

What stories have inspired you?

2009-10-05T11:40:00.000-07:00

Recently I was directed to a blog from a prayer request on facebook. After reading the blog I was extremely inspired by the faithfulness of a person I had never met enduring a tragedy I can't even imagine.

I became enthralled with each post. I found myself weeping and praying for over a week for this family and ultimately for myself. God and I were able to settle a few issues that have gripped me for quite some time.

Now that I am a SAHM I find myself reading more and more. Don't get me wrong this is a good thing. Especially in the case I mentioned above. However, I have also noticed that I spend much of my time reading pointless meanderings for pointless reasons.

So, I thought I would ask:

"What blogs are you following?"

"Is there a story out in cyber space that God has used to encourage, challenge, or change you?"

If you said "YES" to the last question, leave a comment and mention the link. You might also want to check out the sites posted by others...I know I will. You could comment back on how God used that site to inspire you! I may share some of these stories with the girls on Wednesday night. Each week I'm sending home a "God Story." I'm trying to drive home this point: "Living life God's way is the best way...life might not be perfect but with Jesus you will always have peace!"

"May the words of my mouth and the mediation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer." Psalm 19:14

Thanks for your help!
Sabrina

Hustle and Bustle

2009-10-04T21:30:00.001-07:00

We spend most of our days hustling around. We currently have many exciting adventures we are participating in! David has split up Junior High and High School on Sunday mornings again. It makes the rooms less crowded and he is able to differentiate instruction better this way. Therefore, I do a series of activities that correlate with the lesson for one group while David is teaching the lesson for the other. It is working out great! I enjoy preparing the activities each week. It has become my creative outlet!

Also, we have started a potentially life changing study on Wednesday nights. I'm leading the girls group. It is not your typical, "don't, don't, don't with guys" lesson it is an empowering study that helps girls understand the guy in her life and respond to him in a Godly way. I love teaching because I learn (and grow) the most when I have the responsibility of sharing a body of knowledge with someone else. Will you pray that these students will apply what they learn during this series?

Anyways, in the midst of this we were able to sneak away for a few days to visit our families. You probably already know this because most of you who read this...well you are in our family :)!! Here are some pictures from this weekend (the reason I even began this post...too many thoughts...too little time)

Reflections

2009-09-27T19:11:00.000-07:00

Jaxon is starting to settle into his new routine. We are starting to feel more confident in ourselves as parents. It has been an amazing journey. As I reflect on the last year of our lives I'm overwhelmed at how we have been so blessed. David impresses me more and more each day with how he is able to minister so effectively to the students God has entrusted him with. His passion for Christ and others is contagious. I'm in awe at how he is able to balance everything: daddy, husband, student pastor, graduate student...he works around the clock yet manages to do it all with excellence. It is amazing how each day I love him more and more. We are coming up on our 10 year anniversary (well our first date anniversary anyways:). I can't imagine me without him! I'm so thankful God gave him to me at such a crucial stage in my life. David has been my number one influence in my growth with Christ. Who could ask for more?

Jaxon is an amazing little dude himself! He smiles and laughs all the time. His little personality is really shining through. When he wakes up he does this little scream, I go to check on him and he just smiles at me. When we try to give him his pacy he smiles for at least 3 tries then finally takes it...too cute!! His favorite thing right now seems to be playing with daddy. He laughs and smiles and kicks and coos every time David talks to him. I could watch them play all day! Did I mention he is now skipping his 2am feeding? That is hard for a breastfed baby because breast milk digests much quicker than formula.David gets up with him and rocks him until he forgets all about the hunger. He fusses just a little but never really even wakes up. I LOVE my boys!!

If you're wondering why I decided to start writing such simple info. (nothing real exciting) it is because I had an epiphany today. I want to remember how sweet and simple my life is. If something happens to me or life changes drastically for us I want to remember these moments. I want David, Jaxon, and our families to remember these sweet little moments in our life. I don't want to take for granted what we have and I want to always have these reflections to look back on and smile at.

Our growing boy!

2009-09-19T10:06:00.000-07:00

I haven't had much time to write. I have just been uploading pictures a little at time. Jaxon had a check up this week. Turns out his tummy troubles aren't really tummy troubles. His little bottom is just really sore on the inside from all of the "business" he's been doing. We've been treating it and I think it is already getting better. Thanks for all the advice and prayers :)

Also, Jaxon is now 7 weeks and weighs 13 pounds. His doctor said I can but him on a schedule and let him sleep through the night...that is as long as Jaxon agrees. I'm not one for forcing a schedule on such a little guy but if he goes with it I will be thrilled. We started yesterday and it went perfectly smooth. He skipped his 2am feeding like a champ!! If all goes well the new system should be more convenient for me and give him more structure which is always a positive thing.

My heart is so full. I never knew my heart could expand this wide! God has grown and shown me so much through becoming a mommy. From conception to today I've seen God in an amazing new way. The closeness I feel to Him because of this miraculous experience is unexplainable. Jaxon is truly a gift from above!!

Jaxon's Baby Dedication Sept. 6, 2009

2009-09-15T13:37:00.000-07:00

Dedication Service

Jaxon with Tio Roland and Tio Hondo

Jaxon with Wuelita

Jaxon with Tia Teresa, Aunt Heather, and Tia Sarah

Dedication Prayer

My handsome boys!

Jaxon is one month old!

I can't get enough of this little boy!!!

2009-08-31T12:47:00.000-07:00

Jaxon

2009-08-30T14:20:00.000-07:00

Nick and Nora are our super sweet friends from college. We are so glad we were able to meet their girls and Jaxon was able to meet them.

Jaxon's first stroller ride.

He went to visit our good friends and neighbors: Grandma and Grandpa Norris

It is hard to believe that Jaxon will be a month old tomorrow. This has truly been the most amazing time of my life. God has revealed so much to me through the miracle of birth. I love being a mom and love watching Jaxon grow! Here are more pictures of our favorite little guy!!

Faces of Jaxon!

2009-08-18T11:33:00.000-07:00

Chubby legs!

He loves looking at these hand-made black and white cards.

Let's just say Jaxon's second week wasn't as peaceful as his first!

More Jaxon

2009-08-11T12:55:00.000-07:00

David decided to take Jaxon out to the check the mail yesterday. Jaxon was surprised to find a piece of mail with his name on it! His social security card came in, he is officially an American citizen.

I love this face! He makes it often. David thinks he looks mad, I say he is just deep in thought :)

Time for a nap!

So sweet!

Jaxon's had a busy first week!

2009-08-09T16:52:00.000-07:00

I got this idea from my sweet friend Ashley. I plan to take his picture like this each week for awhile to see how much he has grown.

Nana and Sarah visit Jaxon for the first time.

David "nursing" Jaxon for the first time.

Nonni and Jaxon getting ready for a nap.

What a catch! Diapers from the diaper genie from the first few days of Jaxon's life.

Jaxon has arrived!

2009-08-06T08:50:00.000-07:00

Jaxon loves to sleep this way! I can't keep him on his back!

David has to be the the world's most careful and sanitary diaper changer :)

Nonni and Jaxon hanging out!

Playtime with Daddy!

Sleepy head!

Jaxon says, "My tummy is so full."

Ready for bed

First night at home. David and I were still trying to master the art of swaddling. Really there was no use because Jaxon hates having his arms tucked in :)

Welcome home!

Leaving the hospital. He didn't like the car seat.

Abuela and Abuelo with Jaxon

Tio Sam with Jaxon

Abuela and Jaxon

Finally a family of three!

Nonni and Jaxon

Tia Yaya and Jaxon

Jaxon's first bath

Baby Shower

2009-07-20T15:37:00.000-07:00

Jaxon received many items with his name embroidered on it. I thought this was so neat because he won't be finding anything with his name on it at the souvenir shop at Sea World :)! Oh well, I survived I could never find "Sabrina" on anything!

I absolutely love this...It is a card with Jaxon's

sono pic. that says "Mommy can Dean come over?"

Dean is one of our friend's baby. He and Jaxon will be

in the same grade. Too precious!!

Jaxon's room after baby shower number 3! My friends from work had a surprise shower for me. My team bought his highchair which was such a blessing! Then our friends and family had a shower in Junction for us. I did not have my camera as it was with my husband but I'm hoping to get some pics. from family soon. It was so great to catch up with old friends and see all of my family! They also went all out. We certaintly do not deserve all of the love and attention we have received. Jaxon is already blessed to have such an amazing group of people around him!!!

Mackey saved the day by announcing each gift. I would not have had a voice left! David arrived at the shower about 5 minutes before it began. He had just driven in from the mission trip to TN. I know he was exhausted but he was a trooper and had a great time!

Me and my mom at the shower...I don't know what I would do without her!

Mrs. Karen did all of the decorations and they were absolutely adorable! I can't but into words how overwhelmed we were with all of the thought that went into the shower. From the theme (which matched Jaxon's room) to the many hand made blankets, kind cards, and useful gifts...we are so blessed!

Super Summer (Jaxon's first camp pic :)

2009-07-20T15:05:00.000-07:00

We have been having a super summer! I have enjoyed the summer break and getting everything prepped for Jaxon's arrival. We have been having a blast with our "kids" from church. They have been very busy! First, it was teen camp at Camp Zephyr. I was nervous about being so big and uncomfortable all week. However, thanks to my amazing husband and the sweetest teenagers in America...I had no problems. The week after camp they reved up for 10 days in TN. They traveled 18 hours to build a house for a family in the mountains of TN. The last day of their trip they went white water rafting on the Ocoee River. Needless to say I had to miss this trip but I loved hearing the stories of heart change and fun! Now we're having a crazy good time with our summer program The miX games. It has turned out to be a blast! Also, in the midst of this David and I took the kids from church to kids camp (along with another female sponsor...I wouldn't have made it without her...I had to rest alot this time because I was already 36 weeks :). It is hard to believe the summer is almost over and Jaxon is almost here!!!

7th-12th grade Student Camp at Camp Zephyr