Day 401: Happy Birthday Maya!

If you were to ask me what the most significant, life-changing event I had experienced this past year was...it would have nothing to do with my career, deployment adventures, awards, or promotions. But, it would have everything to do with the most precious baby girl that came into my life on August 28, 2008 just several weeks before I had to leave for Afghanistan.



Through pictures and the technological miracle of web cam, I have been able to watch my little girl reach her developmental milestones this past year all culminating with the celebration of her first birthday. From her first smile, to watching her crawl, then sit up, eat solid food, and eventually walk...I have been blessed with the experience of being a proud papa despite being thousands of miles away.


I still recall the moment I held her in the airport when I came home for R&R, and watching her as she looked into my eyes trying to recognize me. She didn't cry, she didn't even ask for mommy, she just stared at me as if she knew I was someone that she could trust. One of those daddy moments:)



Knowing that I will be able to hold her again in a matter of days has made this birthday that much more special for me.


Maya, I love you so much. Daddy's deployment is almost over and I'll be able to be with you for so many more birthdays to come. I hope to help you grow into a beautiful young lady who will fear God and love others. Happy 1st Birthday!

"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in the truth."
3 John 1:4 KJV

Day 31: Daddy's Little Girl & Boy

Last week I was talking to one of my junior sailors who himself is a proud father of two. He told me, "...having a son is like having a best friend, but a daughter...she is my heart." After this past weekend I now know what he was talking about. There is just something about a bond between a father and daughter that is beyond description so I will let the pictures do the talking...enjoy!

It may seem that Baby Maya was the main event, but I also spent some quality time with Maxwell. I was promptly reintroduced to my fatherly responsibilities including diaper duty, culinary duty, and clothing detail (subtle military terminology...sorry). But through those simple "labors of love" I was quickly reminded how blessed I am to have such a beautiful son.

Pool Time with Daddy!

Max's partner in crime, Kuya Josiah

Got Milk?

And where would I be without my better half. Behind this gentle, sweet, kind soul is the toughness and strength that surpasses even the most fearless soldier. Hoorah honey!

Max supervising Maya's feeding...strong work!

Day 25: My Little Sparrow

Only one more day before I get to enjoy a 4 day weekend in California with the family. Today was a routine training day until I received several missed calls on my cell phone from Gemma with the news that Maya Lourdes Miranda Mercado has arrived! She was born August 28th, 2008 at 12:08 PM. She weighs 6 pounds 4 ounces and is 18.5 inches long. 10 fingers and 10 toes. Both she and Gemma are doing very well...Gemma only pushed for 3 sets before it was all over!! Daddy can't wait to meet his little girl.

For those of you who haven't read our family blog, Onto the Water...Maya comes from the Tagalog word for "sparrow" which is mentioned in the gospel book of Matthew as a reminder of God's concern over us. It is only fitting that during this upcoming year her name will be a constant reminder of God's unfailing care and love for us.

"Are not two sparrows sold for a cent? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So do not fear; you are more valuable than many sparrows." Matthew 10:29-31 NASB