One thing that I must say is that I love observing my kids - when they play, talk or just interact with each other. It is refreshing to see them get along and to take comfort in the fact that they will likely "be there" for each other when they are older.
Our "baby" is now fully potty-trained. It took less than a week, but she is even dry at nights. I think that this is partially due to the support and encouragement of her older siblings - they make such a big deal out of the fact that she is a "big girl" and she LOVES to impress them!
Yesterday was such a fun day for the kids - having the whole week off of school is fun, but paired with new Christmas gifts - what else can be better? I loved watching the two younger ones playing "grocery store/house" - they had food and boxes all set up on one of the couches in the family room and would "shop" and then go "home" and pack away all of the groceries into their little cupboard and then start all over again (sometimes making lunch in between!). They also got out their little cash register to "ring up" their purchases once the 8 year old daughter decided to join in too. What fun! :)
We have one more planned Christmas party - this Saturday. I can't wait - I LOVE giving gifts and this year is no exception - so much thought goes into each gift and I can't wait to see my nieces and nephew tear into it all, although I must admit that it's getting a bit harder for the older ones (17, 15 and 14!!) where as the 5 and 1 year old are still pretty simple. My mom and dad are always pretty easy, as are my brother and sister-in-law. Glad too, that it's not at my house this year - my sister-in-law graciously decided to host, so I don't have to worry about cleaning -YAY! Today I found some great clearance plates, napkins and cups that I picked up so we don't have so many dishes to do - should be a great time!
Last weekend was my dad's family Christmas (again, at my brother's house) and was loads of fun. Some of the aunts, uncles and cousins I ONLY get to see then. The kids got totally spoiled and love their gifts! Again, so thankful that my girls can share - they wanted a Littlest Pet Shop set (over $30) and got it - they are so well-behaved that they didn't even open the package until we got home - but I DID get some pretty good pictures of them all crowded around the box, peering in!! :)
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Monday, December 27, 2010
Death is rearing it's ugly head....
Last night we spent some time with our priest before he leaves to go back to India to be with HIS family. Unfortunately, he made this same trip just before Thanksgiving time as he was made aware that his father had brain cancer. His father is quickly deteriorating so he is planning on spending the next four weeks in his native country. In talking with him, I almost cried. He seemed a little lost, unsure as to what the future holds. As he said, "when our parents are here, we don't think much of it..." how true.
It's been only two short years since my hubby lost his mother and the hurt is still so fresh at times.
Father also said that he would need more support when he got back - I am so glad that we have a loving parish that offers him (and his family) up in prayer and will BE that support system not only in prayer while he is gone, but also physically when he comes home.
A cute moment though: at one point he was talking with our 6 year old daughter and says, "Will you miss me while I am in my country with my family?" She responds "yes" and then immediately "no.....I have your picture, so when I miss you, I can look at it!" Father responds, "ahh, good, good.....I will try to call you too, ok?" To which he received a huge smile and a yes!
It's been only two short years since my hubby lost his mother and the hurt is still so fresh at times.
Father also said that he would need more support when he got back - I am so glad that we have a loving parish that offers him (and his family) up in prayer and will BE that support system not only in prayer while he is gone, but also physically when he comes home.
A cute moment though: at one point he was talking with our 6 year old daughter and says, "Will you miss me while I am in my country with my family?" She responds "yes" and then immediately "no.....I have your picture, so when I miss you, I can look at it!" Father responds, "ahh, good, good.....I will try to call you too, ok?" To which he received a huge smile and a yes!
Saturday, December 25, 2010
We are done!
It seems that in our house, lots of things were "done" this month....
The kids are done with school for the year (and me too!!).
We were done wrapping gifts early (this is a major accomplishment - usually I "bag" the gifts because I don't like wrapping!)
As of 9 a.m. this morning, we are done with unwrapping gifts, the papers are all picked up and even lunch is done (well, it's the free ham I got due to "reward points" and it was pre-cooked, so I put it in the crock-pot last night on warm....it's ready to eat whenever we are!).
But the most important (to me, anyways!) we are DONE WITH DIAPERS!!! Waaaahooo!!! We've been potty "training" for awhile, off and on (mostly off, due to my schooling) but I decided 3 days ago that it was no more of this on/off stuff - we had to put forth a good effort. Somehow, "baby" understood this too, as we didn't put a diaper on her for the last three days and have only had 2 accidents - this includes a four hour shopping/grocery trip and a 2 hour church service last night - SO proud!!
The kids are done with school for the year (and me too!!).
We were done wrapping gifts early (this is a major accomplishment - usually I "bag" the gifts because I don't like wrapping!)
As of 9 a.m. this morning, we are done with unwrapping gifts, the papers are all picked up and even lunch is done (well, it's the free ham I got due to "reward points" and it was pre-cooked, so I put it in the crock-pot last night on warm....it's ready to eat whenever we are!).
But the most important (to me, anyways!) we are DONE WITH DIAPERS!!! Waaaahooo!!! We've been potty "training" for awhile, off and on (mostly off, due to my schooling) but I decided 3 days ago that it was no more of this on/off stuff - we had to put forth a good effort. Somehow, "baby" understood this too, as we didn't put a diaper on her for the last three days and have only had 2 accidents - this includes a four hour shopping/grocery trip and a 2 hour church service last night - SO proud!!
Monday, December 13, 2010
"It's been awhile...." continued
So, we were at the point that we knew hubby would have to look for a different job, or I would. When I suggested that I find something part time his words were: "Jessica, you are our future, you have to keep up with your school work."
We sent out many, many prayer requests that all works out to the Lord's will.
The next day, he went up to Medford to a hiring agency. While we have never used one before (and truth-be-told, they make me a little nervous) this was the only way to apply to the company (it's also the ONLY way that they have hired employees for FIFTEEN YEARS!!). He was hired on the spot! The pay is lower than we can currently make ends meet - but there is also much overtime, so that makes up the difference, for now, until he is hired with the company.
He enjoys what he does and it is sooo nice to have dependable work. The only downfall, at this point in time, is that he works second shift - he's gone from 1:30 p.m. until 12:45 a.m. It means that the kids and I have had an adjustment period, as household duties, homework, family prayer time, etc has changed.
I thank God for my parents at this time - they have the capabilities to loan us the money we need to make bills while the transition period between paychecks takes place. They also "forwarded" us our Christmas money so that I could still purchase some Black Friday deals and some "extra" gifts for the kids for Christmas - yes, my "stash" would have been enough, but there are usually a few items that are "new" on their list that I like to pick up as fillers.
So, that's OUR Christmas Miracle - the Lord truly watches over us and has a plan....we just need to pray and know that we are cared for and that our needs are taken care of before we even know what they are!
We sent out many, many prayer requests that all works out to the Lord's will.
The next day, he went up to Medford to a hiring agency. While we have never used one before (and truth-be-told, they make me a little nervous) this was the only way to apply to the company (it's also the ONLY way that they have hired employees for FIFTEEN YEARS!!). He was hired on the spot! The pay is lower than we can currently make ends meet - but there is also much overtime, so that makes up the difference, for now, until he is hired with the company.
He enjoys what he does and it is sooo nice to have dependable work. The only downfall, at this point in time, is that he works second shift - he's gone from 1:30 p.m. until 12:45 a.m. It means that the kids and I have had an adjustment period, as household duties, homework, family prayer time, etc has changed.
I thank God for my parents at this time - they have the capabilities to loan us the money we need to make bills while the transition period between paychecks takes place. They also "forwarded" us our Christmas money so that I could still purchase some Black Friday deals and some "extra" gifts for the kids for Christmas - yes, my "stash" would have been enough, but there are usually a few items that are "new" on their list that I like to pick up as fillers.
So, that's OUR Christmas Miracle - the Lord truly watches over us and has a plan....we just need to pray and know that we are cared for and that our needs are taken care of before we even know what they are!
Saturday, December 11, 2010
It's been awhile....
It's been awhile, so I guess it's time for an update.
At the beginning of October, we bought a new car for Hubby. A few years back he had a Dodge Intrepid that he LOVED - well, my brother had found one for my niece - but she decided it was too big and too expensive for her, so we bought it from her - only $2700 - and it books for over $5000 yet - no rust, VERY low mileage - and best of all - it's NOT teal!!
As usual, the Lord has been working on some HUGE things in our lives. At the end of October (into November) we were just finishing up 3 of the 5 kiddos birthdays. What a riot that always is! We ate out with our eldest daughter and a couple of her friends at a local buffet. Our son decided to forgo the party and get a newly released Wii game he'd been wanting. Our 3rd daughter had a princess tea party at our house - which ended up being TONS of fun!
About a week before Thanksgiving, the "bad news" hit. I say this with tongue-in-cheek though, because so often what WE think is bad is just a small step or turn that the Lord wants us to take so that he can bring us to a better place. So the news was this: due to the amount of layoffs last year, the amount of Hubby unemployment fell to only $200....his job takes off the week of Thanksgiving not to mention two weeks off during Christmas. Last year they were also laid off during most of Jan and Feb - this was just not possible for us! I was nervous because the numbers weren't making sense, but still felt a sense of peace - I knew the Lord had a plan, I just didn't know what it was!
I hate to leave you hanging....but I will continue more later (today or maybe tomorrow!)
At the beginning of October, we bought a new car for Hubby. A few years back he had a Dodge Intrepid that he LOVED - well, my brother had found one for my niece - but she decided it was too big and too expensive for her, so we bought it from her - only $2700 - and it books for over $5000 yet - no rust, VERY low mileage - and best of all - it's NOT teal!!
As usual, the Lord has been working on some HUGE things in our lives. At the end of October (into November) we were just finishing up 3 of the 5 kiddos birthdays. What a riot that always is! We ate out with our eldest daughter and a couple of her friends at a local buffet. Our son decided to forgo the party and get a newly released Wii game he'd been wanting. Our 3rd daughter had a princess tea party at our house - which ended up being TONS of fun!
About a week before Thanksgiving, the "bad news" hit. I say this with tongue-in-cheek though, because so often what WE think is bad is just a small step or turn that the Lord wants us to take so that he can bring us to a better place. So the news was this: due to the amount of layoffs last year, the amount of Hubby unemployment fell to only $200....his job takes off the week of Thanksgiving not to mention two weeks off during Christmas. Last year they were also laid off during most of Jan and Feb - this was just not possible for us! I was nervous because the numbers weren't making sense, but still felt a sense of peace - I knew the Lord had a plan, I just didn't know what it was!
I hate to leave you hanging....but I will continue more later (today or maybe tomorrow!)
Saturday, October 30, 2010
....and the meek shall inherit the earth....
Hi all....just thought that I would share this....it's part of a 2 month spiritual guidance series through Cukierski Family Apostolate. Go ahead, check them out, you know you want too! :)
Are You Strong Enough to Be Meek?
By the late Father Kilian McGowan, C.P.
What's wrong with meekness? Is the meek man a Milquetoast who is
too spineless and weak-kneed to face up to the battle of life?
This is the false face of meekness spread by our TV and modern
novels. Life to them is an "asphalt jungle" where every
difference is settled by a six-gun or a pair of fists.
Strength is equated with violence and brutality.
Nothing could be further from the truth. The meek man has the
courage of the martyrs, the reverence of the poet, and the
patience of a saint in his make-up. Meekness is the son of
self-conquest and father of self-control. The meek man has
studied hard in the school of Christ Crucified, who was meek and
humble of heart.
You don't really need a show of force, or external bluster, or a
display of self-righteousness to overwhelm those who do you wrong.
You must overcome your enemies with the force of the divine life
that flows in and through you. You must conquer the world-and
your enemies-with the love of Christ.
Have you noticed that the most excessive demands always seem
to be made on you when you're at your physical or nervous worst?
Remember that our Lord rebuked His apostles for trying to spare
Him from the thoughtless crowds that pressed about Him following
an exhausting apostolic day: "Suffer the little children to come
unto me and forbid them not," He commanded them.
What do you do when insulted or rejected by otherwise good
people? Perhaps even by those you love? Recall what Christ said
to the Apostles who wanted to rain down fires from heaven on the
cities that refused Him entrance. He warned them that they knew
not of what spirit they were. (Luke 19:55).
What happens when a trusted confidant or friend betrays you in
speech or action? Peter, who swore he would go to the death with
the Savior, betrayed Him in His hour of greatest need. Yet
Christ's only rebuke was a look of infinite tenderness and meek
forgiveness. Was it any wonder that this look brought tears of
immediate repentance?
The truth is that even a little meekness takes a lot of strength.
Now, more than ever, the world filled with so much violence needs
truly meek men. The times call for the manliness of meekness
more than the false courage of violence and uncontrolled anger.
We need the self-conquest of meekness more than the
self-centeredness of hate and brutality. We need the meekness
and humility of Christ.
Helps to Meekness:
1-Reverence every other person, regardless of race, color of
skin, or religious background, as a child of God and a potential
saint.
2-Compassionate with the weaknesses and faults of others no matter
how vicious and mean. Begin at home, remembering that no once can
hurt you when you are truly meek.
3-When your best efforts are unappreciated, or your wise counsel
is ignored, go your way in peace. Prayer is another tool of
meekness that heals and wins souls after words and actions have
failed.
Finally, pray for the courage to be meek. And remember that
there's no victory that is sweeter than the conquest of self!
Are You Strong Enough to Be Meek?
By the late Father Kilian McGowan, C.P.
What's wrong with meekness? Is the meek man a Milquetoast who is
too spineless and weak-kneed to face up to the battle of life?
This is the false face of meekness spread by our TV and modern
novels. Life to them is an "asphalt jungle" where every
difference is settled by a six-gun or a pair of fists.
Strength is equated with violence and brutality.
Nothing could be further from the truth. The meek man has the
courage of the martyrs, the reverence of the poet, and the
patience of a saint in his make-up. Meekness is the son of
self-conquest and father of self-control. The meek man has
studied hard in the school of Christ Crucified, who was meek and
humble of heart.
You don't really need a show of force, or external bluster, or a
display of self-righteousness to overwhelm those who do you wrong.
You must overcome your enemies with the force of the divine life
that flows in and through you. You must conquer the world-and
your enemies-with the love of Christ.
Have you noticed that the most excessive demands always seem
to be made on you when you're at your physical or nervous worst?
Remember that our Lord rebuked His apostles for trying to spare
Him from the thoughtless crowds that pressed about Him following
an exhausting apostolic day: "Suffer the little children to come
unto me and forbid them not," He commanded them.
What do you do when insulted or rejected by otherwise good
people? Perhaps even by those you love? Recall what Christ said
to the Apostles who wanted to rain down fires from heaven on the
cities that refused Him entrance. He warned them that they knew
not of what spirit they were. (Luke 19:55).
What happens when a trusted confidant or friend betrays you in
speech or action? Peter, who swore he would go to the death with
the Savior, betrayed Him in His hour of greatest need. Yet
Christ's only rebuke was a look of infinite tenderness and meek
forgiveness. Was it any wonder that this look brought tears of
immediate repentance?
The truth is that even a little meekness takes a lot of strength.
Now, more than ever, the world filled with so much violence needs
truly meek men. The times call for the manliness of meekness
more than the false courage of violence and uncontrolled anger.
We need the self-conquest of meekness more than the
self-centeredness of hate and brutality. We need the meekness
and humility of Christ.
Helps to Meekness:
1-Reverence every other person, regardless of race, color of
skin, or religious background, as a child of God and a potential
saint.
2-Compassionate with the weaknesses and faults of others no matter
how vicious and mean. Begin at home, remembering that no once can
hurt you when you are truly meek.
3-When your best efforts are unappreciated, or your wise counsel
is ignored, go your way in peace. Prayer is another tool of
meekness that heals and wins souls after words and actions have
failed.
Finally, pray for the courage to be meek. And remember that
there's no victory that is sweeter than the conquest of self!
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Tattoos....
Yep, we have them...tattoos....and we continue to get more. Why? I like them. Hubby likes them. We only get them if they mean something personal to us. For instance: my favorite bible verse around my ankle (Ecc. 3:1-8), my hubby's St Micheal tattoo, my cross (made out of 3 nails)....etc.
One thing that has always annoyed me is when people grab ONE bible verse and use it to defend their reasoning to do/not to do something. I guess that if you only pull out one or two words or phrases, you could make the bible say anything....but it MUST BE read in context.
Here is the verse that most people will quote in their defense of NOT getting a tattoo:
Levitcus 19:28 (KJ Version):
Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD.
Yep, looks pretty clear - probably shouldn't have any piercings or tattoos according to this verse....but what context was it given in?
This verse was for the Jews when they were operating under the old law. We were set free from the slavery of the law when Christ came. (Gal. 2:15)
Also: 1 Cor. 6:12 says that everything is permissible, but not everything is beneficial.
Hmmmm....
So....anyways - anything that may (or may not) be said or thought about this will likely not change my mind. Hubby and I have even talked to our priest about this and we are totally at peace about our decisions to get tattoos since talking with him. I've always given much thought and prayer to my tattoos....at the very least, they mean something to ME - and in no way, shape or form dis-honor or dis-respect the church or the Lord.
One thing that has always annoyed me is when people grab ONE bible verse and use it to defend their reasoning to do/not to do something. I guess that if you only pull out one or two words or phrases, you could make the bible say anything....but it MUST BE read in context.
Here is the verse that most people will quote in their defense of NOT getting a tattoo:
Levitcus 19:28 (KJ Version):
Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD.
Yep, looks pretty clear - probably shouldn't have any piercings or tattoos according to this verse....but what context was it given in?
This verse was for the Jews when they were operating under the old law. We were set free from the slavery of the law when Christ came. (Gal. 2:15)
Also: 1 Cor. 6:12 says that everything is permissible, but not everything is beneficial.
Hmmmm....
So....anyways - anything that may (or may not) be said or thought about this will likely not change my mind. Hubby and I have even talked to our priest about this and we are totally at peace about our decisions to get tattoos since talking with him. I've always given much thought and prayer to my tattoos....at the very least, they mean something to ME - and in no way, shape or form dis-honor or dis-respect the church or the Lord.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
"daycations" or "staycations"
We've been SUPER busy these last few weeks....lots of "staycations or daycations" - you know, a vacation - but you stay close to home. We have done these types of "mini-vacations" with the children for years. Our kiddos just love to sleep at home (just like their mommy - I love MY BED!!).
So, we have went to the Weston Aquatic Center with a high-school friend and her kiddos for the day, of course bringing our newest "stepson" (the neighbor's boy - he's 10 and Son and him are about the closest to bff's as boys get, lol). That was a BLAST!!! All of the kiddos had fun, as they have stuff for small children as well as older ones. My friend's daughter loves spending time with all of our girls - cuz she only has a brother - ewww!!
We have also been to Rock Dam a few times (oh yes, and are going again tomorrow!!) The kids are loving the beach and picnics that we do.
Ok, so the house is suffering a little because of not being here all the time, but I would rather have my kids look back and say "wow, we had sooo much fun in the summertimes - all the trips to the beach, picnics, daycations....mom and dad spent time with us!" rather than "clean house, that's all mom and dad EVER talked about was cleaning house - we had to clean before we could go anywhere." The dirt will still be there when I get around to cleaning it, but I will never again have this moment in time (with my children) back, as they will grow.....
On another note: I seem to be losing and gaining back the same 5 pounds - yuck - I am at a stand-still. So, a friend of mine invited me to join a weight-loss support group (nothing nationally known) with her. The cost is $38 for 12 weeks - we talk about nutrition, exercise, etc. We weigh in at every meeting - got measurements taken, etc. The motivation is being held accountable EVERY WEEK - which is what I need - the accountability AND: the person who loses the most weight, gets 50% of the "pot" - which should be about $200 - we could use that! Today, I have already logged breakfast, planned lunch, exercised and am planning supper - and am WELL within my calorie range...hope the motivation can keep up!!
So, we have went to the Weston Aquatic Center with a high-school friend and her kiddos for the day, of course bringing our newest "stepson" (the neighbor's boy - he's 10 and Son and him are about the closest to bff's as boys get, lol). That was a BLAST!!! All of the kiddos had fun, as they have stuff for small children as well as older ones. My friend's daughter loves spending time with all of our girls - cuz she only has a brother - ewww!!
We have also been to Rock Dam a few times (oh yes, and are going again tomorrow!!) The kids are loving the beach and picnics that we do.
Ok, so the house is suffering a little because of not being here all the time, but I would rather have my kids look back and say "wow, we had sooo much fun in the summertimes - all the trips to the beach, picnics, daycations....mom and dad spent time with us!" rather than "clean house, that's all mom and dad EVER talked about was cleaning house - we had to clean before we could go anywhere." The dirt will still be there when I get around to cleaning it, but I will never again have this moment in time (with my children) back, as they will grow.....
On another note: I seem to be losing and gaining back the same 5 pounds - yuck - I am at a stand-still. So, a friend of mine invited me to join a weight-loss support group (nothing nationally known) with her. The cost is $38 for 12 weeks - we talk about nutrition, exercise, etc. We weigh in at every meeting - got measurements taken, etc. The motivation is being held accountable EVERY WEEK - which is what I need - the accountability AND: the person who loses the most weight, gets 50% of the "pot" - which should be about $200 - we could use that! Today, I have already logged breakfast, planned lunch, exercised and am planning supper - and am WELL within my calorie range...hope the motivation can keep up!!
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Neat article to share
Mass
This article really spoke to me. I have an online friend that drives truck tag-team with her hubby....they get to mass whenever, wherever they can -which means lots of new churches, local customs, etc. Exciting!
This article really spoke to me. I have an online friend that drives truck tag-team with her hubby....they get to mass whenever, wherever they can -which means lots of new churches, local customs, etc. Exciting!
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
A gift ...
Today was a gift. A gift from God. Straight to us. Thanks dear Lord, we loved it!
We got up early to go to a dermatology appt. I had a feeling that something might be amiss, but couldn't put my finger on it. When I got there, I could NOT recall getting the reminder phone call. Um, yeah....because THEY rescheduled it. Argh. Never to fear though - this is our first gift of the day: they squeezed us in within the 1/2 hour! Yes, they did! If you call the Derm. Dept., you won't get an appt for over 3 months or more. However, established patients receive preferential treatment....so we got in. Dr. Smith (yes, her REAL name!) is a honey and Daughter #2 loves her dearly! All turned out fairly well, but with all the pool time, her skin IS getting dried out....she says: use Target's brand 30 SPF sunscreen. It is creamy, moisturizing and stays on the best when in and out of the water. She is so impressed with it that she says that no other moisturizing for the day is necessary!!
Our next gift came in the way of my high school friend. She came over with her kiddo and we went to the beach. Picnic and all. The kids LOVED it and begged to go back. This is the same friend that we got together with on Monday. Love her dearly...she brought some (barely) used clothes over for the girls. We had an awesome time talking, watching the kids play, discussing faith...etc. We even made plans to meet up on Monday next week....depending on the weather, we'll see what we can do! :)
We got up early to go to a dermatology appt. I had a feeling that something might be amiss, but couldn't put my finger on it. When I got there, I could NOT recall getting the reminder phone call. Um, yeah....because THEY rescheduled it. Argh. Never to fear though - this is our first gift of the day: they squeezed us in within the 1/2 hour! Yes, they did! If you call the Derm. Dept., you won't get an appt for over 3 months or more. However, established patients receive preferential treatment....so we got in. Dr. Smith (yes, her REAL name!) is a honey and Daughter #2 loves her dearly! All turned out fairly well, but with all the pool time, her skin IS getting dried out....she says: use Target's brand 30 SPF sunscreen. It is creamy, moisturizing and stays on the best when in and out of the water. She is so impressed with it that she says that no other moisturizing for the day is necessary!!
Our next gift came in the way of my high school friend. She came over with her kiddo and we went to the beach. Picnic and all. The kids LOVED it and begged to go back. This is the same friend that we got together with on Monday. Love her dearly...she brought some (barely) used clothes over for the girls. We had an awesome time talking, watching the kids play, discussing faith...etc. We even made plans to meet up on Monday next week....depending on the weather, we'll see what we can do! :)
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Laptop...in the shop!
Well, the laptop is in the shop. Again. But I am so glad that Dell has such a good warranty - when the time comes, we will get another Dell, for sure.
So, back to the desk-top for me!
Last week, hubby had paid vacation. It was nice to have him home. He undertook a large project - making a new deck. This one is twice as big and will have a built in table and bench seat when done.
We took a day and went up to Minoqua. I love that place, as do the children. Jim Peck's is an awesome petting zoo and of course, we must always stop at Paul Bunyan's for breakfast!
The rest of summer should be pretty fun - we are planning many "day trips" - things like going to the beach, the park, a picnic....etc. Tomorrow we'll be getting together with my friend from high school and her two kiddos and taking advantage of the Pizza Hut summer deal (kids eat free with purchase of adult buffet!).
The kids and hubby are throwing in wood....guess we're trying to get ahead of the ballgame!
Finally, making some good progress on the house-cleaning. The basement is now totally done - I think that this fall we will be getting rid of some winter coats though - we seem to have accumulated enough to clothe an entire football team!! ;)
Lots of help from the good Lord lately - nothing bad happening, just the "normal" - hubby seems to work as much as he's laid off lately. Makes for some smaller paychecks, but some fun family time!
We had to empty and refill the pool. It got attacked by algae! This happened a few years ago also, and it just seems better to empty and start all over. "Baby" is loving the pool - it's pretty amazing, but she takes to it like a fish to water!
Other than that (and the normal goings-on in a 7 person household) nothing much else to report. Is it bad that I am in such a cleaning mode that I'd like to package everything up and just burn it and start over?? Ok, extreme, yes, but we ARE getting rid of LOTS of stuff!
So, back to the desk-top for me!
Last week, hubby had paid vacation. It was nice to have him home. He undertook a large project - making a new deck. This one is twice as big and will have a built in table and bench seat when done.
We took a day and went up to Minoqua. I love that place, as do the children. Jim Peck's is an awesome petting zoo and of course, we must always stop at Paul Bunyan's for breakfast!
The rest of summer should be pretty fun - we are planning many "day trips" - things like going to the beach, the park, a picnic....etc. Tomorrow we'll be getting together with my friend from high school and her two kiddos and taking advantage of the Pizza Hut summer deal (kids eat free with purchase of adult buffet!).
The kids and hubby are throwing in wood....guess we're trying to get ahead of the ballgame!
Finally, making some good progress on the house-cleaning. The basement is now totally done - I think that this fall we will be getting rid of some winter coats though - we seem to have accumulated enough to clothe an entire football team!! ;)
Lots of help from the good Lord lately - nothing bad happening, just the "normal" - hubby seems to work as much as he's laid off lately. Makes for some smaller paychecks, but some fun family time!
We had to empty and refill the pool. It got attacked by algae! This happened a few years ago also, and it just seems better to empty and start all over. "Baby" is loving the pool - it's pretty amazing, but she takes to it like a fish to water!
Other than that (and the normal goings-on in a 7 person household) nothing much else to report. Is it bad that I am in such a cleaning mode that I'd like to package everything up and just burn it and start over?? Ok, extreme, yes, but we ARE getting rid of LOTS of stuff!
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
A Week Later: The Fourth of July
Yep, been another busy week - but that'll be another post! ;)
Today: the Fourth of July.
Our priest (from India, mind you!) had the wonderful idea to have only one Mass on Sunday, the fourth of July. He had much help from the Men's Society and other helpers in pulling it off - but it was the most AWESOME recognition of Independence Day that I have ever seen.
The local American Legion came, presented colors at the beginning. During the Mass, all vets were honored - they were called up by "units" - the Army, the Navy, etc. - and as they came forward, the pianist played their "theme song." (alright, there HAS to be an official name for it, but that's all I can I think of right now!) They were then presented with a mug, candle and poem (which Father had read during his sermon and I will type at the bottom of this post). After all living vets were honored, our two families who have lost their husband/dad/brother (both lost in Iraq) were also called forward to receive a special gift. I guarantee you, there was NOT a dry eye in the entire church. After this, "roll" was taken - all deceased vets' names in our parish were read. This was then followed by the American Legion again presenting colors and the entire congregation singing our national anthem. Then we followed the colors out and they had a gun salute outside.
After the Mass and ceremony were over, there was a luncheon following (presented by the Men's Society) and games for the kiddos....what a fun and unique way to celebrate!
One kink in the whole day though: Son and oldest daughter were both servers. Daughter did an awesome job with some extra blessing with the incense and on her reading. Son, however, got overheated. During the consecration of the host, he fell. Over. Hit his head. Yep, just passed right out, on the altar. Poor kiddo. Since we always sit within the first 5 pews, hubby saw Son starting to sway and we thing he made it up there before Son's head hit the floor! They took him into the back and then hubby brought him home to rest. Much later that afternoon, he finally felt well. We have since decided that the children will wear t-shirts and shorts when they serve, as their robes cover them anyways. Another server was also feeling faint, so she went outside to get some air as well.
Today: the Fourth of July.
Our priest (from India, mind you!) had the wonderful idea to have only one Mass on Sunday, the fourth of July. He had much help from the Men's Society and other helpers in pulling it off - but it was the most AWESOME recognition of Independence Day that I have ever seen.
The local American Legion came, presented colors at the beginning. During the Mass, all vets were honored - they were called up by "units" - the Army, the Navy, etc. - and as they came forward, the pianist played their "theme song." (alright, there HAS to be an official name for it, but that's all I can I think of right now!) They were then presented with a mug, candle and poem (which Father had read during his sermon and I will type at the bottom of this post). After all living vets were honored, our two families who have lost their husband/dad/brother (both lost in Iraq) were also called forward to receive a special gift. I guarantee you, there was NOT a dry eye in the entire church. After this, "roll" was taken - all deceased vets' names in our parish were read. This was then followed by the American Legion again presenting colors and the entire congregation singing our national anthem. Then we followed the colors out and they had a gun salute outside.
After the Mass and ceremony were over, there was a luncheon following (presented by the Men's Society) and games for the kiddos....what a fun and unique way to celebrate!
One kink in the whole day though: Son and oldest daughter were both servers. Daughter did an awesome job with some extra blessing with the incense and on her reading. Son, however, got overheated. During the consecration of the host, he fell. Over. Hit his head. Yep, just passed right out, on the altar. Poor kiddo. Since we always sit within the first 5 pews, hubby saw Son starting to sway and we thing he made it up there before Son's head hit the floor! They took him into the back and then hubby brought him home to rest. Much later that afternoon, he finally felt well. We have since decided that the children will wear t-shirts and shorts when they serve, as their robes cover them anyways. Another server was also feeling faint, so she went outside to get some air as well.
The Soldier
(author unknown)
It's the soldier, not the lawyer
Who has given us the right to fair trial.
It's the soldier, not the reporter
Who has given us the freedom of press.
It's the soldier, not the poet
Who has given us the freedom of speech.
It's the soldier, not the campus organizer
Who has given us the freedom to demonstrate.
It's the soldier, who serves beneath the flag,
Who solutes the flag,
Whose coffin is draped by the flag,
Who allows the protester to burn the flag.
It's the soldier, not the politician,
Who has given his blood, his body, his life,
Who has given us these freedoms!
It's the soldier who gives up their freedom
For our freedom.
It's the soldier who we must pray for.
Monday, July 5, 2010
The weekend of the 4th of July - Saturday
So here we go....with the weekend of the 4th.
Let's start at the beginning, this being Saturday!
Saturday morning we woke up. (ha, see, wonderful stuff, huh?!) We did the usual cleaning/picking up - Saturday mornings at our house are dedicated to picking up the floors, vacuuming, sweeping, mopping and getting the main level of the house cleaned and organized. Hubby did most of this for me, although the kids and I had worked on some of it on Friday. I was left to do costumes. For the play. The King and I. argh. I think that next time, I will have to lay some hard-set ground rules - like NO last-minute stuff! I don't mind helping and sewing costumes, but this last minute stuff really must end. So, 8 pairs of pants got finished and 10 dresses left to go! (those got finished today - Monday).
During baby's nap, hubby took the kids outside and made some awesome tin-can luminaries. They were all pretty excited to do them and even Son decided to do one - although that could be, in part, due to the fact that he got to use a drill!!
After baby got up from her nap, we went to my brother's house for potluck and fireworks. We brought along another craft (check Moneyless Momma's later this week or early next) - Fourth of July Flip Flops! The girls had a great time making these and even wore them to church on Sunday. I had been to Hancock Fabrics early in the week and had obtained their "bags of ribbon" for only 49 cents each - normally $1.99 (each bag has approximately 30 yards of ribbon, cut into 2 yard sections - all colors and widths)!! We used the ribbon for the flip flops, but I expect to see many, many more uses of ribbon come out of this house in the next few months.....the creative juices are flowing!
We had a wonderful spread of things - including a bean salsa that I'll post on Moneyless Momma's sometime this week or next. Hubby and I like it so well that we could eat it plain, but it tastes great on crackers and tortilla chips too.
By the time 7:30 rolled around, Daughter #3 was done. She STILL dislikes loud noises and was NOT looking forward to being there when Uncle lit the fireworks. So, we brought her, baby and Molly-girl home with us.
Father came over for a chat....he had a WONDERFUL service planned for the Fourth - we knew some of what he had planned and he let us in on some more - he also wanted our oldest daughter to learn how to incense for special occasions - so even though they didn't get back until after 9:30 p.m., Hubby and her went to Father's house and practiced. (oh, and she brought home the incense holder home to practice too - which was the talk of EVERYONE - why it was at OUR house and not church!)
Father and I also were able to discuss some school things and he threw a few ideas past me. I am throughly convinced that God has his hand on this man. He is unafraid to push forward, try new things, pull in the reins and return to all of the church traditions....yes, we feel blessed to have him here, in our parish AND to consider him a friend as well.
Hubby chatted with him about tattoos (he had been at our first party) and he said that there are things that the church basically doesn't comment on either way - and as long as the tattoos that we get are in no way damaging ourselves (morally, money-wise or spiritually) there really is no harm in it.
So. I think that was our day. More or less....probably more....cuz I just can't document it all! ;)
Let's start at the beginning, this being Saturday!
Saturday morning we woke up. (ha, see, wonderful stuff, huh?!) We did the usual cleaning/picking up - Saturday mornings at our house are dedicated to picking up the floors, vacuuming, sweeping, mopping and getting the main level of the house cleaned and organized. Hubby did most of this for me, although the kids and I had worked on some of it on Friday. I was left to do costumes. For the play. The King and I. argh. I think that next time, I will have to lay some hard-set ground rules - like NO last-minute stuff! I don't mind helping and sewing costumes, but this last minute stuff really must end. So, 8 pairs of pants got finished and 10 dresses left to go! (those got finished today - Monday).
During baby's nap, hubby took the kids outside and made some awesome tin-can luminaries. They were all pretty excited to do them and even Son decided to do one - although that could be, in part, due to the fact that he got to use a drill!!
After baby got up from her nap, we went to my brother's house for potluck and fireworks. We brought along another craft (check Moneyless Momma's later this week or early next) - Fourth of July Flip Flops! The girls had a great time making these and even wore them to church on Sunday. I had been to Hancock Fabrics early in the week and had obtained their "bags of ribbon" for only 49 cents each - normally $1.99 (each bag has approximately 30 yards of ribbon, cut into 2 yard sections - all colors and widths)!! We used the ribbon for the flip flops, but I expect to see many, many more uses of ribbon come out of this house in the next few months.....the creative juices are flowing!
We had a wonderful spread of things - including a bean salsa that I'll post on Moneyless Momma's sometime this week or next. Hubby and I like it so well that we could eat it plain, but it tastes great on crackers and tortilla chips too.
By the time 7:30 rolled around, Daughter #3 was done. She STILL dislikes loud noises and was NOT looking forward to being there when Uncle lit the fireworks. So, we brought her, baby and Molly-girl home with us.
Father came over for a chat....he had a WONDERFUL service planned for the Fourth - we knew some of what he had planned and he let us in on some more - he also wanted our oldest daughter to learn how to incense for special occasions - so even though they didn't get back until after 9:30 p.m., Hubby and her went to Father's house and practiced. (oh, and she brought home the incense holder home to practice too - which was the talk of EVERYONE - why it was at OUR house and not church!)
Father and I also were able to discuss some school things and he threw a few ideas past me. I am throughly convinced that God has his hand on this man. He is unafraid to push forward, try new things, pull in the reins and return to all of the church traditions....yes, we feel blessed to have him here, in our parish AND to consider him a friend as well.
Hubby chatted with him about tattoos (he had been at our first party) and he said that there are things that the church basically doesn't comment on either way - and as long as the tattoos that we get are in no way damaging ourselves (morally, money-wise or spiritually) there really is no harm in it.
So. I think that was our day. More or less....probably more....cuz I just can't document it all! ;)
The week before the 4th....
We had a great 4th of July weekend....but first off:
the week before:
It was quite a busy week in our household leading up to the 4th. Finally, this was the last week of swim lessons and summer school - YAY!! The kids love it, but we are ready for "just summer" (read: sleeping in, little to no schedule, daycations, etc!).
The two older girls were signed up for day-camp for girls scouts for two days. I went with them - what a blast! They did arts and crafts, learned new songs, made new friends, etc. It brought back a lot of memories, as I was a girl scout back in the day! Make sure to check out Washing Wilma....what fun! :) The two little girls stayed with Daddy both evenings (camp was from 4-8:30 - and was a half hour drive away!). They were fine, but were happy when mom came home!
On Wednesday, Son got his final activity in his "Sleeping With The Sharks" class: going to Mall Of America and sleeping with the sharks at the Underwater Aquarium! He and our neighbor boy (his bff - do boys have bff's??? lol) went together and they had a blast. Playing at the Nickelodeon center in the middle of the Mall - having a pizza party, making a Sleeping With The Shark pillowcase, etc. We are very proud of him - he came home with all but $5 of the money he went up there with. He is really getting the concept of saving for the big things that you want. He would like to save the $50 that he came home with for his and daddy's trip to the Oshkosh air show later this month. I expect them to come home and tell me that they took a helicopter ride - they have been drooling over them for the last year!
There is so much that I want to share about the 4th of July weekend, that I will do so in another post - hopefully today or tomorrow.
God Bless!
the week before:
It was quite a busy week in our household leading up to the 4th. Finally, this was the last week of swim lessons and summer school - YAY!! The kids love it, but we are ready for "just summer" (read: sleeping in, little to no schedule, daycations, etc!).
The two older girls were signed up for day-camp for girls scouts for two days. I went with them - what a blast! They did arts and crafts, learned new songs, made new friends, etc. It brought back a lot of memories, as I was a girl scout back in the day! Make sure to check out Washing Wilma....what fun! :) The two little girls stayed with Daddy both evenings (camp was from 4-8:30 - and was a half hour drive away!). They were fine, but were happy when mom came home!
On Wednesday, Son got his final activity in his "Sleeping With The Sharks" class: going to Mall Of America and sleeping with the sharks at the Underwater Aquarium! He and our neighbor boy (his bff - do boys have bff's??? lol) went together and they had a blast. Playing at the Nickelodeon center in the middle of the Mall - having a pizza party, making a Sleeping With The Shark pillowcase, etc. We are very proud of him - he came home with all but $5 of the money he went up there with. He is really getting the concept of saving for the big things that you want. He would like to save the $50 that he came home with for his and daddy's trip to the Oshkosh air show later this month. I expect them to come home and tell me that they took a helicopter ride - they have been drooling over them for the last year!
There is so much that I want to share about the 4th of July weekend, that I will do so in another post - hopefully today or tomorrow.
God Bless!
Saturday, July 3, 2010
2 years
It has been two years since my mother-in-law died. Some days it feels like forever, others: just yesterday and still other days feel like she is still here.
I miss her dearly. I see her in the children's faces, I feel her looking over my shoulder as I am making an outfit for the children from "her" material. I feel her in my heart - I hear her soft words of wisdom echoing in my mind.
I miss her. I look at how the children and see how they have grown in the past 2 years - and it is glaringly apparent what she has missed.
I miss her. When I am in school, I frequent her gravesite -checking up on it, telling her about my day, praying for her.
The first year was all about "firsts." Missing her on the first fourth of July - missing her when we gave birth to our youngest (glad that she knew they would share the same middle name) - on the first time her birthday came, our birthday, our anniversary, Christmas....etc.
The next year has been consumed with missing her not being here for many events....as the children grow, she is missed at each of these events. We know that "us kids" and "grandkids" were her life - it's what she lived for. She would go without - because she loved everyone so much.
Hubby has taken to using the last quilt she made for us as "his alone." It's a memory - loved sewed into every stitch is not an exaggeration.
We love you Mom!
I miss her dearly. I see her in the children's faces, I feel her looking over my shoulder as I am making an outfit for the children from "her" material. I feel her in my heart - I hear her soft words of wisdom echoing in my mind.
I miss her. I look at how the children and see how they have grown in the past 2 years - and it is glaringly apparent what she has missed.
I miss her. When I am in school, I frequent her gravesite -checking up on it, telling her about my day, praying for her.
The first year was all about "firsts." Missing her on the first fourth of July - missing her when we gave birth to our youngest (glad that she knew they would share the same middle name) - on the first time her birthday came, our birthday, our anniversary, Christmas....etc.
The next year has been consumed with missing her not being here for many events....as the children grow, she is missed at each of these events. We know that "us kids" and "grandkids" were her life - it's what she lived for. She would go without - because she loved everyone so much.
Hubby has taken to using the last quilt she made for us as "his alone." It's a memory - loved sewed into every stitch is not an exaggeration.
We love you Mom!
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Pray with me....
So if you are reading this post, pray with may that we make the right decision and that we do God's will.
I just found out that a dear friend and former co-worker of mine is jobless - not only that but her unemployment has run out also. Money is extremely tight for us right now, but I feel such a need to reach out and help her - I know that if it is God's will that he will provide.
Here is the deal: I really need some help organizing and "deep cleaning" my house - as testified by yesterday's post. So, I was thinking that maybe we could hire her on a temporary basis to clean? But I've never had a cleaning lady (even though I've always dreamed of one!) what is proper procedure (so to speak) and how much do you pay them?
Ahhh, decisions decisions! Pray that Hubby and I make the right decision!
I just found out that a dear friend and former co-worker of mine is jobless - not only that but her unemployment has run out also. Money is extremely tight for us right now, but I feel such a need to reach out and help her - I know that if it is God's will that he will provide.
Here is the deal: I really need some help organizing and "deep cleaning" my house - as testified by yesterday's post. So, I was thinking that maybe we could hire her on a temporary basis to clean? But I've never had a cleaning lady (even though I've always dreamed of one!) what is proper procedure (so to speak) and how much do you pay them?
Ahhh, decisions decisions! Pray that Hubby and I make the right decision!
Monday, June 28, 2010
Weekend High
We are coming off of a weekend high.
Ok, so not everything in the house is cleaned up like I had hoped it would be, but life is too short to worry about all that - I'll get to all of the "deep cleaning" before I start school back up in August. Hopefully!
On Friday we took Oreo (Our purebred long-haired Chihuahua) in to be neutered. We hope this stops his spraying issues - which have only recently started, so I think that we nipped this one quickly. If there's one thing I HATE it's going into a house that smells like dog urine - yuck - we don't want to be that house!
Saturday we got to pick him up. Today, he is almost back to normal, but still jumping and moving a little gingerly. It's all good - no spraying so far either!
Friday night and all day Saturday Son spent time with my parents. They bought him a new gun Saturday after he left, so yesterday after Mass, we went there again. He is thrilled to have it - although technically it is for "all the grandchildren" - it's definitely HIS for now!
Saturday night we cooked out over the fire pit (pudgie pies and such, yum!) and let the children do some sparklers - which they LOVED.
Sunday was Mass at 8:30 and then off to mom and dad's and some light grocery shopping. When I got home, we had a "cereal meal" - everyone picked their favorite cereal to eat and I didn't have to cook - yay! I laid down for a nap when the baby did and when we both woke up, Hubby took all the kiddos outside swimming and I worked for 45 minutes deep cleaning the girls room. Half a black garbage bag later I was half done. Whew. Then Hubby took the older kids over to the Parish campfire and I staying the basement and let the baby play while I cleaned up down there some. Like I said, lots more to do, but it'll get done!
Today: it's finally nice enough to do open the windows and hang laundry out, so Baby and I have hung out 2 loads of laundry and opened all windows to let in the fresh air - sooo nice. I am planning on making some bread this afternoon - been too long - and possibly some cookie dough to freeze.
On other fronts: since my dad's shoulder surgery is now done, they have declared him 10% disabled with that arm and gave him a cash settlement. Out of that, he gave me enough money for our July surprise (soon-to-be revealed, I promise!) and gave my brother the matching amount as well. This helps out tremendously and I can't wait to reveal the surprise!!
Ok, so not everything in the house is cleaned up like I had hoped it would be, but life is too short to worry about all that - I'll get to all of the "deep cleaning" before I start school back up in August. Hopefully!
On Friday we took Oreo (Our purebred long-haired Chihuahua) in to be neutered. We hope this stops his spraying issues - which have only recently started, so I think that we nipped this one quickly. If there's one thing I HATE it's going into a house that smells like dog urine - yuck - we don't want to be that house!
Saturday we got to pick him up. Today, he is almost back to normal, but still jumping and moving a little gingerly. It's all good - no spraying so far either!
Friday night and all day Saturday Son spent time with my parents. They bought him a new gun Saturday after he left, so yesterday after Mass, we went there again. He is thrilled to have it - although technically it is for "all the grandchildren" - it's definitely HIS for now!
Saturday night we cooked out over the fire pit (pudgie pies and such, yum!) and let the children do some sparklers - which they LOVED.
Sunday was Mass at 8:30 and then off to mom and dad's and some light grocery shopping. When I got home, we had a "cereal meal" - everyone picked their favorite cereal to eat and I didn't have to cook - yay! I laid down for a nap when the baby did and when we both woke up, Hubby took all the kiddos outside swimming and I worked for 45 minutes deep cleaning the girls room. Half a black garbage bag later I was half done. Whew. Then Hubby took the older kids over to the Parish campfire and I staying the basement and let the baby play while I cleaned up down there some. Like I said, lots more to do, but it'll get done!
Today: it's finally nice enough to do open the windows and hang laundry out, so Baby and I have hung out 2 loads of laundry and opened all windows to let in the fresh air - sooo nice. I am planning on making some bread this afternoon - been too long - and possibly some cookie dough to freeze.
On other fronts: since my dad's shoulder surgery is now done, they have declared him 10% disabled with that arm and gave him a cash settlement. Out of that, he gave me enough money for our July surprise (soon-to-be revealed, I promise!) and gave my brother the matching amount as well. This helps out tremendously and I can't wait to reveal the surprise!!
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Father's Day
Today, being Father's Day.....our priest said a special blessing in church for all fathers - Here's another one:
God our Father, in your wisdom and love you made all things.
Bless these men, that they may be strengthened as Christian fathers.
Let the example of their faith and love shine forth.
Grant that we, their sons and daughters, may honor them always with a spirit of profound respect.
Grant this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
-- from the Book of Blessings
I am thankful for my husband, who is the best father to my children that I could ever ask for.
I am thankful for MY father...who raised me the best he knew how - who instilled in me a hard work ethic and great money-managing skills - he is the prime example of doing for others (my dad is NOT internet nor computer savvy, so he will never see this, but he IS the best!!)
I am thankful for my father-in-law - without him as a role-model, my husband would not have become the man he is today.
I am thankful for our priests, who in today's world are the best "father's" to their parish that they can be. (Speaking of which - we found a wonderful shirt for our priest....World's Best Father....with a trophy on it! :) )
But mostly, I am thankful for my heavenly father, who, in his love for all of his children - sent his own son, Jesus Christ, to die for us.
Thank you, heavenly father, for all the blessings that you bestow on us each day. Let us remember to pray THY will to be done, not MINE!!
Thank you, heavenly father, for all the blessings that you bestow on us each day. Let us remember to pray THY will to be done, not MINE!!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
We are blessed!
I feel so blessed lately that I just had write a post about it.
Sometimes "life" is just about looking at the "good things" - well, here's what happened to us lately:
~I won another gift certificate - this time for $50 (from another blogger) - I think that it will be saved for our shoe shopping for school shoes this fall!
~Son was able to switch classes with another child (for summer school) and is now able to do "Sleeping with the sharks" at the Mall of America with his best buddy. This seems small - but is WAY more drawn out and complicated.
~I finally got a new tattoo. Hubby got a gorgeous one of St Micheal (yes, my protestant hubby!!) and I wasn't able to "get inked" that day - but went this Saturday to get mine instead. I'll post pictures another time....but it is a beautiful purple rose in memory of the baby that we lost before we had any children. I am looking forward to getting my next one - which are all of the children's birth flowers colored their birthstone color!
~We still have a secret, but it's getting closer to being revealed - July at the latest!!
~I just got word from our piano teacher that Daughter #1 will be receiving her piano books from the Alfred Publishing Company for FREE!! From now until she stops taking lessons! This is super sweet because the girls all pass down their books, so all that needs to be bought is a new "Theory" book.
~With all the rain we have been getting, our little garden is growing HUGE!! (the weeds are too, but we won't discuss that! lol)
~I have re-connected with a friend from high school. We try to walk twice a week. It's so nice to get some time in with her. We have been talking about getting together more often, just not done it - now we have!! Because she motivates me so, I have dropped another two pounds!!
~I got my "official" letter from school: I made the Dean's list with a 3.84!!! Yay me! =)
God is good....be sure to thank him! :)
Sometimes "life" is just about looking at the "good things" - well, here's what happened to us lately:
~I won another gift certificate - this time for $50 (from another blogger) - I think that it will be saved for our shoe shopping for school shoes this fall!
~Son was able to switch classes with another child (for summer school) and is now able to do "Sleeping with the sharks" at the Mall of America with his best buddy. This seems small - but is WAY more drawn out and complicated.
~I finally got a new tattoo. Hubby got a gorgeous one of St Micheal (yes, my protestant hubby!!) and I wasn't able to "get inked" that day - but went this Saturday to get mine instead. I'll post pictures another time....but it is a beautiful purple rose in memory of the baby that we lost before we had any children. I am looking forward to getting my next one - which are all of the children's birth flowers colored their birthstone color!
~We still have a secret, but it's getting closer to being revealed - July at the latest!!
~I just got word from our piano teacher that Daughter #1 will be receiving her piano books from the Alfred Publishing Company for FREE!! From now until she stops taking lessons! This is super sweet because the girls all pass down their books, so all that needs to be bought is a new "Theory" book.
~With all the rain we have been getting, our little garden is growing HUGE!! (the weeds are too, but we won't discuss that! lol)
~I have re-connected with a friend from high school. We try to walk twice a week. It's so nice to get some time in with her. We have been talking about getting together more often, just not done it - now we have!! Because she motivates me so, I have dropped another two pounds!!
~I got my "official" letter from school: I made the Dean's list with a 3.84!!! Yay me! =)
God is good....be sure to thank him! :)
Friday, June 11, 2010
"Do As I Say...."
Isn't this what happens with most parents? We adopt a "do as I say, not as I do" attitude. I think that with the love of Christ, we can learn to be "do as I do" instead of "do as I say."
What do I mean? Lately, I have been on a journey to lose weight. I know that often times I used to find myself telling the kids (in the evening, when they would ask for snacks) to have an apple, banana or something "healthy" -- only to have them go to bed and sit and eat a half a bag of chips while reading my latest book. Um yeah, not so healthy there, MOM!! So, I've adopted a "do as I do" attitude. If I require it of my children, why can't I require it of myself? So now, I do. If I tell them to get outside and enjoy the weather, then I get outside and enjoy the weather. If I say only fruit for a snack, then that's all that I do, too.
Unknowingly, I have been modeling this behavior for quite some time: we go to Mass. Every Sunday. No exceptions. We make sure to see all family during the holidays - even if we are tired and cranky (cuz family is what life is about, folks!). I am kind to the grocer in the store (especially when I hand them a stack of 20+ coupons, wink wink!!) - so I am thrilled when I see them using their manners to store personnel. Etc, etc.
I just hadn't "gotten it" that I should be doing this in regards to ALL things. Of course, I reserve the right to pull rank: "do it, because I'm the mom and I said," but all-in-all....I think it's better to adopt a "do as I do" attitude.
What do I mean? Lately, I have been on a journey to lose weight. I know that often times I used to find myself telling the kids (in the evening, when they would ask for snacks) to have an apple, banana or something "healthy" -- only to have them go to bed and sit and eat a half a bag of chips while reading my latest book. Um yeah, not so healthy there, MOM!! So, I've adopted a "do as I do" attitude. If I require it of my children, why can't I require it of myself? So now, I do. If I tell them to get outside and enjoy the weather, then I get outside and enjoy the weather. If I say only fruit for a snack, then that's all that I do, too.
Unknowingly, I have been modeling this behavior for quite some time: we go to Mass. Every Sunday. No exceptions. We make sure to see all family during the holidays - even if we are tired and cranky (cuz family is what life is about, folks!). I am kind to the grocer in the store (especially when I hand them a stack of 20+ coupons, wink wink!!) - so I am thrilled when I see them using their manners to store personnel. Etc, etc.
I just hadn't "gotten it" that I should be doing this in regards to ALL things. Of course, I reserve the right to pull rank: "do it, because I'm the mom and I said," but all-in-all....I think it's better to adopt a "do as I do" attitude.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Recovering....
We are recovering from a long weekend. Daughter's #1 and #2 were sick this weekend - poor kiddos. It was very weird only having the oldest two children in church with me - we are used to us all going as a family. Daughter #2 was still sick yesterday, so she missed the first day of swim lessons. Today is the second day - and go figure: it's raining. Hubby took the van, so I guess we will all try to pile into my car to run the kids up to school.
Unfortunately, mom was sick the last two days, but I have a darling hubby who is capable of taking care of things while I'm down and out!
Here's hoping for a good night's sleep and that the rest of the children (and hubby) stay well!
Unfortunately, mom was sick the last two days, but I have a darling hubby who is capable of taking care of things while I'm down and out!
Here's hoping for a good night's sleep and that the rest of the children (and hubby) stay well!
Thursday, June 3, 2010
New camera....
I can't wait! Office Max had a wonderful sale on SLR digital camera's - and we bought one!!
I checked into classes at "The Wood" and they have beginning and advanced classes where you bring YOUR camera and they (basically) teach you how to utilize the functions. I don't see any classes available during the summer, but am still waiting to hear back. If not this summer, then hopefully this fall!
I checked into classes at "The Wood" and they have beginning and advanced classes where you bring YOUR camera and they (basically) teach you how to utilize the functions. I don't see any classes available during the summer, but am still waiting to hear back. If not this summer, then hopefully this fall!
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Kid's last day of school, among other things
Today all of the children have their last day of school - a fun day! The older children will attend Mass for the last time this school year and then have their day of fun - including do-it-yourself sundae's and lots of fun (outside) activities! As parents, we usually go up and help with the activities and bring the kids home early.
Yesterday, the 5-year-old girl had her graduation ceremony - next stop: kindergarten! We had asked Father if he would like to attend - he did, and completely enjoyed himself. They sang my favorite "entering kindergarten song": I don't know, but I've been told (I don't know, but I've been told) Kindergarten is the place to go (Kindergarten is the place to go) I've learned my colors and ABC's (I've learned my colors and ABS's) Now I'm as smart as I can be (Now I'm as smart as I can be) Sound off (one, two) and again (three, four) Bring it on down (one, two, three, four - one, two THREE, FOUR!!) -- to the tune of the army cadence.
Sunday we had a tattoo party here. AWESOME! Yes, I like my tattoo's - and was expecting to get another one, only Hubby got one instead! Just like other parties, if you have 5 guests: then yours is FREE!! This guy does awesome work at extremely reasonable prices. That morning when I went to Mass, I let Father know what we were doing and that he could drop in and check out - which he did. In India, they do more Henna tattoos (which, of course is NOT permanent), so he was pretty interested in it all. The wife of the tattoo artist had commented that if that had been a Catholic Priest, he never would have stopped in...hahaha...I said he IS a Catholic Priest and she was shocked! Father joked about getting a tattoo - but of course, didn't. :)
Three (yes THREE!!!) down cows this week. Two are "taken" by cousins - my brother and I split the last one. I ended up bringing home 100 pounds of hamburger and am having 25 pounds made into BBQ beef sticks and another 25 pounds made into pepperoni beef sticks. I shiver when I think of the yucky, greasy ones in the store. A good friend (Sorry!!) allows her hubby to buy them for their son - YUCK!! I have tried to convince her to make their own - it's not just the greasiness that makes me quesy - but what did they pick up off the floor and put in there?
Ah, I wanted to write more, but my computer time has run short. Hopefully with our summer officially starting tomorrow, I will update more frequently!
God Bless,
Jessica
Yesterday, the 5-year-old girl had her graduation ceremony - next stop: kindergarten! We had asked Father if he would like to attend - he did, and completely enjoyed himself. They sang my favorite "entering kindergarten song": I don't know, but I've been told (I don't know, but I've been told) Kindergarten is the place to go (Kindergarten is the place to go) I've learned my colors and ABC's (I've learned my colors and ABS's) Now I'm as smart as I can be (Now I'm as smart as I can be) Sound off (one, two) and again (three, four) Bring it on down (one, two, three, four - one, two THREE, FOUR!!) -- to the tune of the army cadence.
Sunday we had a tattoo party here. AWESOME! Yes, I like my tattoo's - and was expecting to get another one, only Hubby got one instead! Just like other parties, if you have 5 guests: then yours is FREE!! This guy does awesome work at extremely reasonable prices. That morning when I went to Mass, I let Father know what we were doing and that he could drop in and check out - which he did. In India, they do more Henna tattoos (which, of course is NOT permanent), so he was pretty interested in it all. The wife of the tattoo artist had commented that if that had been a Catholic Priest, he never would have stopped in...hahaha...I said he IS a Catholic Priest and she was shocked! Father joked about getting a tattoo - but of course, didn't. :)
Three (yes THREE!!!) down cows this week. Two are "taken" by cousins - my brother and I split the last one. I ended up bringing home 100 pounds of hamburger and am having 25 pounds made into BBQ beef sticks and another 25 pounds made into pepperoni beef sticks. I shiver when I think of the yucky, greasy ones in the store. A good friend (Sorry!!) allows her hubby to buy them for their son - YUCK!! I have tried to convince her to make their own - it's not just the greasiness that makes me quesy - but what did they pick up off the floor and put in there?
Ah, I wanted to write more, but my computer time has run short. Hopefully with our summer officially starting tomorrow, I will update more frequently!
God Bless,
Jessica
Monday, May 24, 2010
Thought for the day:
This morning, the city-wide "alarm" went off.
Not the tornado alarm - the fire alarm.
This always sends a small chill through me. It can mean a fire or an accident - just that the trucks are needed.
I recalled something that I had heard a long time ago, that I've passed on to my children: anytime you hear that alarm or pass an ambulance, cross yourself and say a quick prayer for the safety of the people going to help and for those that need the help.
You never know what that prayer may do for that person, at that particular moment in time!!
Not the tornado alarm - the fire alarm.
This always sends a small chill through me. It can mean a fire or an accident - just that the trucks are needed.
I recalled something that I had heard a long time ago, that I've passed on to my children: anytime you hear that alarm or pass an ambulance, cross yourself and say a quick prayer for the safety of the people going to help and for those that need the help.
You never know what that prayer may do for that person, at that particular moment in time!!
Saturday, May 22, 2010
End-of-school
Ah, you can tell that it's the end of the school year. The kids are tired of school "stuff" as am I!
It's time to get the pool up, usually we wait until the last day of school - but the forecast predicts 90+ for tomorrow and the next few days, so Hubby and the kids are putting it up today.
I have been having a fun time (honestly, I like a clean house!) getting the house back in order after last semester. We are getting rid of bags and bags of "stuff" for the garage sale, so it feels great to be purging too.
Went to stamp club today - it was great to get out, have some fun and get some new card ideas - all without children....wow, I felt like "me" again!
I made some adorable "pillowcase dresses" for the two little girls yesterday and today - be sure to check Moneyless Momma's next week for instructions AND pictures! Last night I also whipped up 2 pairs of shorts and a pillowcase dress for my cousin's kid's birthday presents. As I was working on all of the dresses, it was sentimental to me -- the material I was using was "scraps" that my mother-in-law had given me before she passed....so each dress has a little "grandma love" in them!
It's time to get the pool up, usually we wait until the last day of school - but the forecast predicts 90+ for tomorrow and the next few days, so Hubby and the kids are putting it up today.
I have been having a fun time (honestly, I like a clean house!) getting the house back in order after last semester. We are getting rid of bags and bags of "stuff" for the garage sale, so it feels great to be purging too.
Went to stamp club today - it was great to get out, have some fun and get some new card ideas - all without children....wow, I felt like "me" again!
I made some adorable "pillowcase dresses" for the two little girls yesterday and today - be sure to check Moneyless Momma's next week for instructions AND pictures! Last night I also whipped up 2 pairs of shorts and a pillowcase dress for my cousin's kid's birthday presents. As I was working on all of the dresses, it was sentimental to me -- the material I was using was "scraps" that my mother-in-law had given me before she passed....so each dress has a little "grandma love" in them!
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Mother's Day
Mother's Day this year was a great day. Hubby had taken the two older children to Mass on Saturday night, so the middle girl and I went to Mass ALONE on Sunday morning. Father had a special blessing for all mom's and a coin and medal to give.
Of course, we had purchased the exercise equipment for both Mother's and Father's Day gifts, but Hubby also got me a professional grade Salad Shooter - we received one from his sister for our wedding gift, but a few years back, it died on us. We hadn't replaced it because whenever we would decide that we could afford to, it would be "out of season" and not available - well, no more! I am VERY pleased to have one again - it shreds cheese like a hot knife thru butter and don't even get me started on how quickly I can make homemade hashbrowns now!
Hubby went to his mom's grave with the oldest daughter and added soil (some of the bulbs were showing) and weeded.
I hung out three loads of laundry and on my way back in with them, broke my toe. Yep, I BROKE MY TOE ON MOTHER'S DAY! What a day. No, I did not go in to have it x-ray - it is the "little" toe on my left foot. It hurt like the dickens (and after walking on it all day today for eldest daughter's field trip, it hurts!!), but there is not much that they will do for broken toes that haven't broken the skin. It is, however, a lovely shade of purple.....edging toward black-ish today. :) Such is my life.
Still waiting on final grades....I am sure that I made the Dean's List, I would just like to know my exact GPA. I am waiting on scholarship information too. Hubby and I have chatted about the possibility of getting an SLR Digital Canon if I do -- wooohooo!
Of course, we had purchased the exercise equipment for both Mother's and Father's Day gifts, but Hubby also got me a professional grade Salad Shooter - we received one from his sister for our wedding gift, but a few years back, it died on us. We hadn't replaced it because whenever we would decide that we could afford to, it would be "out of season" and not available - well, no more! I am VERY pleased to have one again - it shreds cheese like a hot knife thru butter and don't even get me started on how quickly I can make homemade hashbrowns now!
Hubby went to his mom's grave with the oldest daughter and added soil (some of the bulbs were showing) and weeded.
I hung out three loads of laundry and on my way back in with them, broke my toe. Yep, I BROKE MY TOE ON MOTHER'S DAY! What a day. No, I did not go in to have it x-ray - it is the "little" toe on my left foot. It hurt like the dickens (and after walking on it all day today for eldest daughter's field trip, it hurts!!), but there is not much that they will do for broken toes that haven't broken the skin. It is, however, a lovely shade of purple.....edging toward black-ish today. :) Such is my life.
Still waiting on final grades....I am sure that I made the Dean's List, I would just like to know my exact GPA. I am waiting on scholarship information too. Hubby and I have chatted about the possibility of getting an SLR Digital Canon if I do -- wooohooo!
Saturday, May 8, 2010
The closet....
....in OUR bedroom is done, clean....wahooo!! Thank you, Lord for the time off to get this accomplished. This may not sound like anything to some, but this last semester has been pretty hard on the house and lots of things have "gone by the wayside" so-to-speak (seeing as how I am pulling straight A's in two science classes - 4 credits each - it was either let the house go a little or have a breakdown!). Well NO MORE!! My goal for the next 4 weeks is to get this house back in ship-shape order! Why four weeks? Well, my brother and sister-in-law are having a garage sale and that's when it is - so I want all of this stuff gone.
Out of the closet: 2 bags of garbage (and mind you, this is NOT just little Wal-mart grocery bags - these were big, black garbage bags!! One bag of clothes - all mine. One bag of misc. "stuff" - including sheets, covers for chairs and couches, tablecloths (yeah, those of you that know me can laugh at that one) and also a bed-rail to keep kids from falling out of bed and a hand-held shampoo-er (which is moving to the garage - should work great on the vans). Oh, and did I mention that we aren't really flat sheet people? Well, we aren't - don't be shocked, we just love our blankies and the flat (top) sheet gets in the way! Anyway, tell me why I am storing these unnecessarily? NO MORE!! I am shipping them to my mom's house and she will be re-purposing them into winter jammies for the kids (they are flannel sheets - it's all we sleep on, so comfy.)
We ordered out from the "corner bar" last night, as our reward for getting so much accomplished. It was sooo yummy, fried curds, fish fry.....yep, today I'll be working out BIG TIME.....oh oh, I forgot to mention: I stopped in at a friend's house to drop off a few things for her and tried her eliptical and exercise bike and LOVED them - so much that I came home and asked hubby about getting one of each! He was so convinced after seeing how excited I was about them - and, of course, when we weighed the options (Y membership is over $500 for the family, plus the drive there - "Snap" is $300 a year, plus the drive there, plus day care, etc....) we figured that it was the best choice for us. Last night the Son road the bike for EIGHT MILES!! Good exercise for the whole family - and me, I can ride bike while reading, which was why I was so excited.
Oh yes, so on about Friday: we ordered out - but first we had called Father (I had mistakenly thought that he did rounds at the hospital on fridays) and thought he might want to meet us at Pizza Hut - he had just eaten, so we went to plan number two: the bar. Around 6:30 though, Father calls and asks for Hubby - they went down for a few hours and a few drinks :) I laugh to think that MY hubby (having been raised baptist) is practically bff with a priest - (maybe a conversion is in the works!). Hubby came home and said he only had to buy one drink and Father had to buy NONE - drinks were all bought for them!! Yes, the niceties of living in a small town.
We have instituted Friday's as Family Pizza and a Movie Night - for about 2-3 weeks now. Since we didn't do it last night, the children are begging for it tonight. I guess that I can live with that! I make my own crusts (or purchase them at the grocery store when they are cheap) and then freeze them - so when rounded out with apples and carrots, this makes a quick and easy supper for me to prepare - not to mention, one that the children adore.
Out of the closet: 2 bags of garbage (and mind you, this is NOT just little Wal-mart grocery bags - these were big, black garbage bags!! One bag of clothes - all mine. One bag of misc. "stuff" - including sheets, covers for chairs and couches, tablecloths (yeah, those of you that know me can laugh at that one) and also a bed-rail to keep kids from falling out of bed and a hand-held shampoo-er (which is moving to the garage - should work great on the vans). Oh, and did I mention that we aren't really flat sheet people? Well, we aren't - don't be shocked, we just love our blankies and the flat (top) sheet gets in the way! Anyway, tell me why I am storing these unnecessarily? NO MORE!! I am shipping them to my mom's house and she will be re-purposing them into winter jammies for the kids (they are flannel sheets - it's all we sleep on, so comfy.)
We ordered out from the "corner bar" last night, as our reward for getting so much accomplished. It was sooo yummy, fried curds, fish fry.....yep, today I'll be working out BIG TIME.....oh oh, I forgot to mention: I stopped in at a friend's house to drop off a few things for her and tried her eliptical and exercise bike and LOVED them - so much that I came home and asked hubby about getting one of each! He was so convinced after seeing how excited I was about them - and, of course, when we weighed the options (Y membership is over $500 for the family, plus the drive there - "Snap" is $300 a year, plus the drive there, plus day care, etc....) we figured that it was the best choice for us. Last night the Son road the bike for EIGHT MILES!! Good exercise for the whole family - and me, I can ride bike while reading, which was why I was so excited.
Oh yes, so on about Friday: we ordered out - but first we had called Father (I had mistakenly thought that he did rounds at the hospital on fridays) and thought he might want to meet us at Pizza Hut - he had just eaten, so we went to plan number two: the bar. Around 6:30 though, Father calls and asks for Hubby - they went down for a few hours and a few drinks :) I laugh to think that MY hubby (having been raised baptist) is practically bff with a priest - (maybe a conversion is in the works!). Hubby came home and said he only had to buy one drink and Father had to buy NONE - drinks were all bought for them!! Yes, the niceties of living in a small town.
We have instituted Friday's as Family Pizza and a Movie Night - for about 2-3 weeks now. Since we didn't do it last night, the children are begging for it tonight. I guess that I can live with that! I make my own crusts (or purchase them at the grocery store when they are cheap) and then freeze them - so when rounded out with apples and carrots, this makes a quick and easy supper for me to prepare - not to mention, one that the children adore.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
I have an obsession...
I have an obsession with - well, ok, I am obsessive about more than a few things, but I'll only go into one thing today.....exclamation points!! I use them all of the time - one, two and even three sometimes! It really is insane. I notice this in my online writing and I try to stop to make it NOT look like I'm hopped up on some new drug.
I don't know when this obsession started, only that it is. Problem is, it is extremely annoying - TO ME!! Too much of anything is never good and the same goes for punctuation. You don't know how many times I backspace to take an exclamation off and put a period there instead! Pure insanity.
I know someone who randomly splatters (lol)'s all over the place. I compare this to my exclamation point obsession. Weird, random and overused!
I don't know when this obsession started, only that it is. Problem is, it is extremely annoying - TO ME!! Too much of anything is never good and the same goes for punctuation. You don't know how many times I backspace to take an exclamation off and put a period there instead! Pure insanity.
I know someone who randomly splatters (lol)'s all over the place. I compare this to my exclamation point obsession. Weird, random and overused!
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Busy week!
Another busy week down - wow!
I currently have only 1 day left of classes - yay!
The children are counting down their days of school as well - but they are more excited for summer, swim lessons and our many little "day-cations" that we have planned!
The new puppy is adapting well - Oreo still is not sure of her, but he seems to be adjusting ok. He is getting more brave and will go near her now for short periods of time. The kids keep trying to tell him she's his wife, but so far, he's not buying it!
Friday night Son and Hubby went to Father Jerome's house to see if he has ever been fishing - he had, but hadn't gotten his new license yet - so they took a walk to the gas station and picked up licenses and then down to the local pond to check it out - they could literally HEAR the fish jumping out of the water!! Father asked them to meet at 6 a.m. - he had a funeral and then meetings in the afternoon and that would get him some good fishing time.
So, on Saturday morning, all the kiddos got up and went fishing (well, except for baby!) They had a great time, but we kidded that Father must have blessed the worms, because he was the only one who caught any fish! :) Everyone did have a great time though!
Daughter #3 had a birthday party to go to for a classmate, so we made sure she made it out there and went back to pick her up - in-between times, a good friend and her son came to visit. It was a wonderful time and provided a good break to the "normal!"
Hubby went to The Highgrounds and saw a "Helicopter expo" - they also had many Vietnam planes, vehicles, etc there. We had called his dad the week before (he's a Vietnam Vet), so they met there. Hubby said that it was a fun time and took lots of pictures.
Sunday was another pretty busy day. Father called at 8 and asked if we were coming to 8:30 Mass as normal. I said yes....he was having printer problems and couldn't print his homily (this has happened a couple of times, usually on a Saturday night though!) but, alas, while we were chatting, the printer worked! During his homily, I leaned over and told Hubby that Father should have an iPad so that he could just bring that up to the pulpit instead of the papers - he wouldn't even have to print!! LOL I'm on a mission to win one - we'll see how that goes! :)
In the afternoon, Hubby took the girls to their piano recital. I was unable to go this time, as baby hadn't had a nap in TWO DAYS and was extremely exhausted - so I stayed home so she could have her nap. They did very well and got lots of compliments. While they were gone, Father called and wanted to go fishing - since Hubby wasn't here, he said that he would go down and to send him down when he got home. I invited him over for a fire around suppertime - fires in the pit in the summer are our favorite activity! We made the fish on the tri-pod (which Father LOVED and decided that he needed one for when HE had guests - oh, he loved the fish too!) We did the fish with onions, garlic/onion salt and butter -- YUMMY!!
Anyway - I have delayed posting this for 3 days now because I am only working on it in bits and pieces, so this will have to do, if I ever want to post it!
I currently have only 1 day left of classes - yay!
The children are counting down their days of school as well - but they are more excited for summer, swim lessons and our many little "day-cations" that we have planned!
The new puppy is adapting well - Oreo still is not sure of her, but he seems to be adjusting ok. He is getting more brave and will go near her now for short periods of time. The kids keep trying to tell him she's his wife, but so far, he's not buying it!
Friday night Son and Hubby went to Father Jerome's house to see if he has ever been fishing - he had, but hadn't gotten his new license yet - so they took a walk to the gas station and picked up licenses and then down to the local pond to check it out - they could literally HEAR the fish jumping out of the water!! Father asked them to meet at 6 a.m. - he had a funeral and then meetings in the afternoon and that would get him some good fishing time.
So, on Saturday morning, all the kiddos got up and went fishing (well, except for baby!) They had a great time, but we kidded that Father must have blessed the worms, because he was the only one who caught any fish! :) Everyone did have a great time though!
Daughter #3 had a birthday party to go to for a classmate, so we made sure she made it out there and went back to pick her up - in-between times, a good friend and her son came to visit. It was a wonderful time and provided a good break to the "normal!"
Hubby went to The Highgrounds and saw a "Helicopter expo" - they also had many Vietnam planes, vehicles, etc there. We had called his dad the week before (he's a Vietnam Vet), so they met there. Hubby said that it was a fun time and took lots of pictures.
Sunday was another pretty busy day. Father called at 8 and asked if we were coming to 8:30 Mass as normal. I said yes....he was having printer problems and couldn't print his homily (this has happened a couple of times, usually on a Saturday night though!) but, alas, while we were chatting, the printer worked! During his homily, I leaned over and told Hubby that Father should have an iPad so that he could just bring that up to the pulpit instead of the papers - he wouldn't even have to print!! LOL I'm on a mission to win one - we'll see how that goes! :)
In the afternoon, Hubby took the girls to their piano recital. I was unable to go this time, as baby hadn't had a nap in TWO DAYS and was extremely exhausted - so I stayed home so she could have her nap. They did very well and got lots of compliments. While they were gone, Father called and wanted to go fishing - since Hubby wasn't here, he said that he would go down and to send him down when he got home. I invited him over for a fire around suppertime - fires in the pit in the summer are our favorite activity! We made the fish on the tri-pod (which Father LOVED and decided that he needed one for when HE had guests - oh, he loved the fish too!) We did the fish with onions, garlic/onion salt and butter -- YUMMY!!
Anyway - I have delayed posting this for 3 days now because I am only working on it in bits and pieces, so this will have to do, if I ever want to post it!
Thursday, April 29, 2010
God Bless our friends!
Yesterday I had the wonderful opportunity to talk with a great friend. She is older than I am (my mother's age) but her and I are kindred spirits....both writers, both knowledgeable, inspiring women. She claims that I inspire her - but to me, SHE is the inspiring one! Although time doesn't permit us to sit and chat very often, I feel blessed every single time I am able to talk with her. Her knowledge and experiences are amazing and she is articulate in describing (the true heart of writer, she is!).
She also has fibromyalgia. It sucks. There is no cure. But she keeps on going, one baby step at time. Yep, SHE'S the inspiring one. She never stops! She reads, she writes, she sells Avon out of her home to help support her family....she is an inspiration to never stop. She is also a cancer survivor.
God bless our friends, for showing us the way, how to be strong, how NOT to give up!
She also has fibromyalgia. It sucks. There is no cure. But she keeps on going, one baby step at time. Yep, SHE'S the inspiring one. She never stops! She reads, she writes, she sells Avon out of her home to help support her family....she is an inspiration to never stop. She is also a cancer survivor.
God bless our friends, for showing us the way, how to be strong, how NOT to give up!
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Summer is here
Well, officially, in our household - summer has arrived! The kids are all registered for their summer "stuff" - school, sports, swimming - I am registered for fall semester classes (easy ones, compared to the 8 credits of science I've been taking this semester!) and we lit Father Jerome's fire ring for the first time!
Hubby and I went over to help Father decide what to do about a garden area and we ended up lighting a fire and sitting around talking for a long time. It's nice to be right across the road, because the children were able to go back and forth as they pleased and we were able to have some adult conversation. LOTS of new things going on with the church - Father is all about change, for the good! We were discussing where we go to grocery shop and Father said he gets his chicken from Fest Foods and marinates it himself, with Indian Spices. He asked if we wanted to try and said HE didn't think it was too hot....actually, it wasn't, but the spices are definitely different and do pack a little punch!
The children and I went to pick up our new puppy - a Chorkie - yesterday. It was a four hour drive to get her, but sooo worth it. My mom watched "the baby" (who is almost two, this is totally NOT sinking in - she still FEELS like a baby!) and Daughter #2 wanted to stay there too. We set her in the yard when we got home and she piddled - after coming home from Father's - the girls put her on the yard again and she piddled and poo'd - they LOVE her dearly - I am just hoping that "baby" can be gentle enough not to hurt her - she only weighs a half a pound! A few days ago when we were talking about Molly, my Hubby got out two sticks of butter and had the kids hold it - yep, that's how much she weighs!!
Tanning is going well. I am actually getting some color - and the psoriasis is getting better by far! Not gone, by any means, but most definitely getting better!
The weight is starting to drop off again too, now that I am getting stricter about my food intake. We have another weight-loss meeting tomorrow and I think that my goal will be to log ALL FOOD. I know that I am MUCH stricter when I log my food. I have been meeting my water intake goal - still slacking some on the exercise though. It's a process. It took a long to time to put the weight on, and will take some time to take it off too.
It's raining this morning.....which means I'll be at my cousin's cutting up a cow - yep, another one. It sucks that on a day off with the kids that I can't be home with them, but you NEVER say no to cheap meat, so I can't complain - much! :)
Hubby and I went over to help Father decide what to do about a garden area and we ended up lighting a fire and sitting around talking for a long time. It's nice to be right across the road, because the children were able to go back and forth as they pleased and we were able to have some adult conversation. LOTS of new things going on with the church - Father is all about change, for the good! We were discussing where we go to grocery shop and Father said he gets his chicken from Fest Foods and marinates it himself, with Indian Spices. He asked if we wanted to try and said HE didn't think it was too hot....actually, it wasn't, but the spices are definitely different and do pack a little punch!
The children and I went to pick up our new puppy - a Chorkie - yesterday. It was a four hour drive to get her, but sooo worth it. My mom watched "the baby" (who is almost two, this is totally NOT sinking in - she still FEELS like a baby!) and Daughter #2 wanted to stay there too. We set her in the yard when we got home and she piddled - after coming home from Father's - the girls put her on the yard again and she piddled and poo'd - they LOVE her dearly - I am just hoping that "baby" can be gentle enough not to hurt her - she only weighs a half a pound! A few days ago when we were talking about Molly, my Hubby got out two sticks of butter and had the kids hold it - yep, that's how much she weighs!!
Tanning is going well. I am actually getting some color - and the psoriasis is getting better by far! Not gone, by any means, but most definitely getting better!
The weight is starting to drop off again too, now that I am getting stricter about my food intake. We have another weight-loss meeting tomorrow and I think that my goal will be to log ALL FOOD. I know that I am MUCH stricter when I log my food. I have been meeting my water intake goal - still slacking some on the exercise though. It's a process. It took a long to time to put the weight on, and will take some time to take it off too.
It's raining this morning.....which means I'll be at my cousin's cutting up a cow - yep, another one. It sucks that on a day off with the kids that I can't be home with them, but you NEVER say no to cheap meat, so I can't complain - much! :)
Sunday, April 18, 2010
and.....this week at Lifestyles of the Crazy and Insane......
Ha ha! Crazy and insane it HAS been!
Baby (who is "almost" 2, by the way!) was sick and I ended up having to take her in to see the doctor on Friday. It appears that she has a sinus infection - poor little one! I think that Thursday night was the worst night that I have EVER had with her. She was up all night: crying, coughing, fidgeting, etc. I had to sit in the chair for her to be even semi-comfortable. It certainly made me thank the good Lord for a comfortable chair! She is taking her meds via milk. She saw me do this - one time. The next time that she wanted her sipper refilled, she brought me her sipper AND her medicine - yep, she is a smarty pants! She is doing better already - sleeping through the night again - ahhhh.
Two tests this week - one in Microbiology and one in Advanced A & P - 100% on both of them, thank you very much (yes, I am proud!!).
Helped Hubby prepare for his grandmother's funeral. The trip was over 3 hours (one way) and he decided that I should stay home with the children. A few months ago we received a trumpet from a women on Freecycle and he has been practicing since then. (He loves listening to the girls playing piano and it spurred in him the desire to have a trumpet again.) We bought a few books of sheet music for him and received a few books from family. He practiced and played "How Great Thou Art" at the funeral.
Baby has decided that she likes to pray - Amen is her favorite word while we are in church - right along with "peace" - I think that she shares the peace longer than intended, but she loves it!
Hubby got the roof done. It may have been two weeks, but he did it all by himself (aside from Son helping) and saved us oh, so much money! Next on the agenda: finish the front hall (he just put new floors in) and also some new customized drawer dividers - designed by me! Then, we will be carpeting our bedroom and setting up the new pedestal bed - oh, does that bedroom ever need a good thorough cleaning and re-organizing! And, since my new weight-loss regime is moving along, time to get rid of some clothes too!
Baby (who is "almost" 2, by the way!) was sick and I ended up having to take her in to see the doctor on Friday. It appears that she has a sinus infection - poor little one! I think that Thursday night was the worst night that I have EVER had with her. She was up all night: crying, coughing, fidgeting, etc. I had to sit in the chair for her to be even semi-comfortable. It certainly made me thank the good Lord for a comfortable chair! She is taking her meds via milk. She saw me do this - one time. The next time that she wanted her sipper refilled, she brought me her sipper AND her medicine - yep, she is a smarty pants! She is doing better already - sleeping through the night again - ahhhh.
Two tests this week - one in Microbiology and one in Advanced A & P - 100% on both of them, thank you very much (yes, I am proud!!).
Helped Hubby prepare for his grandmother's funeral. The trip was over 3 hours (one way) and he decided that I should stay home with the children. A few months ago we received a trumpet from a women on Freecycle and he has been practicing since then. (He loves listening to the girls playing piano and it spurred in him the desire to have a trumpet again.) We bought a few books of sheet music for him and received a few books from family. He practiced and played "How Great Thou Art" at the funeral.
Baby has decided that she likes to pray - Amen is her favorite word while we are in church - right along with "peace" - I think that she shares the peace longer than intended, but she loves it!
Hubby got the roof done. It may have been two weeks, but he did it all by himself (aside from Son helping) and saved us oh, so much money! Next on the agenda: finish the front hall (he just put new floors in) and also some new customized drawer dividers - designed by me! Then, we will be carpeting our bedroom and setting up the new pedestal bed - oh, does that bedroom ever need a good thorough cleaning and re-organizing! And, since my new weight-loss regime is moving along, time to get rid of some clothes too!
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Prayer for my children
I (like all moms) pray for my children. Frequently this includes discernment for them to follow whatever it is Our Lord wants them to do with their lives. Other times I pray for peace, for a fever to pass, a good night's sleep, etc.
But, one thing I pray for EVERY night is for my child's future spouse. Jessica, Say WHAT? Yep. I pray for my children, but also for their future spouse. I pray that they and their future spouse will hold themselves, their thoughts and their bodies in high esteem. I pray that they and their spouse will save themselves for each other. I pray that spiritually both they and their future spouse will grow the way that the Lord needs them to, to be spiritually prepared for each other.
God knows - he knows when you will pray for someone - he knows what a person needs - he knows that these prayers, at this time, are going to help these kids. Someday, I want to be able to look into the eyes of my future daughter-in-law or son-in-law and say "I prayed for you daily, before I even knew you!"
But, one thing I pray for EVERY night is for my child's future spouse. Jessica, Say WHAT? Yep. I pray for my children, but also for their future spouse. I pray that they and their future spouse will hold themselves, their thoughts and their bodies in high esteem. I pray that they and their spouse will save themselves for each other. I pray that spiritually both they and their future spouse will grow the way that the Lord needs them to, to be spiritually prepared for each other.
God knows - he knows when you will pray for someone - he knows what a person needs - he knows that these prayers, at this time, are going to help these kids. Someday, I want to be able to look into the eyes of my future daughter-in-law or son-in-law and say "I prayed for you daily, before I even knew you!"
Monday, April 12, 2010
Baptism
As a former Lutheran and a practicing Catholic, one thing that has always been close to my heart is baptism. My Hubby's family grew up in a church that doesn't baptize infants. This is sooo heartbreaking to me. Why wait to be baptized? Jesus himself said - Bring even the little children to me!
Today's Gospel, though, sums it up well. Should the unthinkable happen and your baby/child should die, wouldn't you want them to be "born through water" so they can "see the kingdom of God?"
These are Jesus' words, not mine....this is why I believe what I believe about baptism.
God Bless you this day!!
Today's Gospel, though, sums it up well. Should the unthinkable happen and your baby/child should die, wouldn't you want them to be "born through water" so they can "see the kingdom of God?"
These are Jesus' words, not mine....this is why I believe what I believe about baptism.
God Bless you this day!!
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Can I get an AMEN?
Wow, is the Lord good! (AMEN)
He provides for our every need! (AMEN)
He is there when we ask! (AMEN!!)
This week has been full of many ups and downs.....my car lost BOTH belts (one was for the alternator.....) - that apparently we were supposed to change a year and a half ago when we bought the car (so said our mechanic) - oops! He only charged us $40 for the belts AND labor (AMEN!!).
We took a trip to Wausau today. the kids love to shop around PetSmart (since there isn't one closer) and yes, we came home with a dozen fish - oh, and a frog too!
Hubby and Son went to the Hobby Shoppe and got some new models and paint - they are really into airplanes now. It's pretty surreal to hear them conversing and not being sure WHAT they are talking about!
Our stop at the game store went well. They traded in 2 games for $2 more than the local store was going to give us for THREE!!! (AMEN!) Now, Son can get his new game!
We rounded out our trip with a stop at Kohls (personally, not that impressed) and of course, ate out at Fazoli's. The kids love it there - probably because it's a "treat" - and they also have a book program, so the next time we go, their meals will be free!!
While we were out and about, Hubby said the power steering was out in the van. Usually this means just a fill of fluid, but that didn't really help. We re-checked and the fluid was still there. A phone call to my little bro left us with the impression that it's probably the pump - $50 to $200 repair, depending on the cost of the pump. OUCH.
Fast forward to us getting home and getting the mail: in there is a rebate check from our new washer - can I get an "amen?" God does provide!!
He provides for our every need! (AMEN)
He is there when we ask! (AMEN!!)
This week has been full of many ups and downs.....my car lost BOTH belts (one was for the alternator.....) - that apparently we were supposed to change a year and a half ago when we bought the car (so said our mechanic) - oops! He only charged us $40 for the belts AND labor (AMEN!!).
We took a trip to Wausau today. the kids love to shop around PetSmart (since there isn't one closer) and yes, we came home with a dozen fish - oh, and a frog too!
Hubby and Son went to the Hobby Shoppe and got some new models and paint - they are really into airplanes now. It's pretty surreal to hear them conversing and not being sure WHAT they are talking about!
Our stop at the game store went well. They traded in 2 games for $2 more than the local store was going to give us for THREE!!! (AMEN!) Now, Son can get his new game!
We rounded out our trip with a stop at Kohls (personally, not that impressed) and of course, ate out at Fazoli's. The kids love it there - probably because it's a "treat" - and they also have a book program, so the next time we go, their meals will be free!!
While we were out and about, Hubby said the power steering was out in the van. Usually this means just a fill of fluid, but that didn't really help. We re-checked and the fluid was still there. A phone call to my little bro left us with the impression that it's probably the pump - $50 to $200 repair, depending on the cost of the pump. OUCH.
Fast forward to us getting home and getting the mail: in there is a rebate check from our new washer - can I get an "amen?" God does provide!!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Proud Mommy
It's really fun to watch your kids and see them grow before your very eyes.
It's also very heartbreaking to see their hopes crushed.
Son just LOVES video games - Wii, Playstation - computer - any and all video games. He recently gathered up THREE newer Wii games and had his daddy take him to the used game store. He was hoping to get enough to buy a new game. I pre-warned him that sometimes they offer less than what we think we should get - and if they don't offer enough (if he would rather keep it and play it than sell it for that little) then he should be ready to say "no thank you."
A while later, my hubby gave me a call and said that they had offered $27 for all three games with the excuse that they were scratched. He said that Son said "No Thank-You" and they left. WOW!! By the time I talked to Son, he was just in tears, he had wanted a new game soooo badly! But, I told him how proud I was and that this weekend we would be taking a trip to a larger city and we would make sure that the games were in tip-top condition and see what THEY will offer - I really hope that it will be more and that he will have enough to get his new game!
It's also very heartbreaking to see their hopes crushed.
Son just LOVES video games - Wii, Playstation - computer - any and all video games. He recently gathered up THREE newer Wii games and had his daddy take him to the used game store. He was hoping to get enough to buy a new game. I pre-warned him that sometimes they offer less than what we think we should get - and if they don't offer enough (if he would rather keep it and play it than sell it for that little) then he should be ready to say "no thank you."
A while later, my hubby gave me a call and said that they had offered $27 for all three games with the excuse that they were scratched. He said that Son said "No Thank-You" and they left. WOW!! By the time I talked to Son, he was just in tears, he had wanted a new game soooo badly! But, I told him how proud I was and that this weekend we would be taking a trip to a larger city and we would make sure that the games were in tip-top condition and see what THEY will offer - I really hope that it will be more and that he will have enough to get his new game!
Easter Weekend
Easter weekend went GREAT!!!
The kiddos got up in the morning and were in love with the Dollar Tree items that we got them (the little bit of candy that they get is from the bunny - lol - the small "toys" are from us). By the time I rolled out of bed at 6:30, the girls were already painting their TinkerBell Easter Pictures. The boy was a little disappointed that his plane wasn't flying really well - but he had fun anyway.
We went to Mass at 8:30 - I LOVE Easter Mass. Father was all decked out in some beautiful vestments - the lilies were adorning the alter - it was truly beautiful.
After Mass, we went to my mom and dad's house for lunch. They love to spoil the children with money in the little plastic eggs - this year, they got a dollar just for answering this question: "what is grandma's favorite thing for you to give her?" (a hug and a kiss!!)
The meal was fantastic - turkey, gravy, twice baked potatoes, rolls, carrots, jello....etc. When we were done, we took the "leftovers" into my sister-in-law's work and shared with the 5 people that were working that day.
What could be better?? The savior has risen!!
The kiddos got up in the morning and were in love with the Dollar Tree items that we got them (the little bit of candy that they get is from the bunny - lol - the small "toys" are from us). By the time I rolled out of bed at 6:30, the girls were already painting their TinkerBell Easter Pictures. The boy was a little disappointed that his plane wasn't flying really well - but he had fun anyway.
We went to Mass at 8:30 - I LOVE Easter Mass. Father was all decked out in some beautiful vestments - the lilies were adorning the alter - it was truly beautiful.
After Mass, we went to my mom and dad's house for lunch. They love to spoil the children with money in the little plastic eggs - this year, they got a dollar just for answering this question: "what is grandma's favorite thing for you to give her?" (a hug and a kiss!!)
The meal was fantastic - turkey, gravy, twice baked potatoes, rolls, carrots, jello....etc. When we were done, we took the "leftovers" into my sister-in-law's work and shared with the 5 people that were working that day.
What could be better?? The savior has risen!!
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Good Friday
Good Friday to me is always the hardest part of Easter - the alter is bare - the crucifix is down - Jesus has been removed from the tabernacle and is in an alternate location - no genuflecting - no "real" mass. It's depressing. Yes, I know it's supposed to be. But it's hard, it's lonely - going into a Catholic Church is always "different" - because Jesus is there and you can FEEL his presence - but on Good Friday, that feeling is gone.
Yesterday we got a LOT done around the house - 3 loads of laundry hung out, Hubby worked half the day, 3 loads of laundry back in before it rained :)!! - make-ahead potatoes made for Easter dinner tomorrow, a HUGE batch of cinnamon rolls made (with the help of a certain 7-year-old who said to me that she loves to cook and bake!) and just some general cleaning and picking up.
Father called at about 5-ish and said that there was Stations at 7 p.m. and that he would like Son and oldest Daughter to come and read. Of course! I went with, and it was a very nice. There is something super special about following the path of Christ - not just reading about it, but taking the 20 minutes to pray and meditate on each Station. I know that this is truly a "Catholic thing" but it should be something that ALL religions do!! It is definitely one thing to read about it, but it is a whole different thing to DO the Stations....amazing!!
Yesterday we got a LOT done around the house - 3 loads of laundry hung out, Hubby worked half the day, 3 loads of laundry back in before it rained :)!! - make-ahead potatoes made for Easter dinner tomorrow, a HUGE batch of cinnamon rolls made (with the help of a certain 7-year-old who said to me that she loves to cook and bake!) and just some general cleaning and picking up.
Father called at about 5-ish and said that there was Stations at 7 p.m. and that he would like Son and oldest Daughter to come and read. Of course! I went with, and it was a very nice. There is something super special about following the path of Christ - not just reading about it, but taking the 20 minutes to pray and meditate on each Station. I know that this is truly a "Catholic thing" but it should be something that ALL religions do!! It is definitely one thing to read about it, but it is a whole different thing to DO the Stations....amazing!!
Friday, April 2, 2010
Holy Thursday
Well, Hubby and Son went to church together last night as the girls and I stayed home....much reasoning for this: Son was asked by Father to participate in the washing of the feet, but we were also to spend an hour with Jesus in adoration (which was actually from after Mass until Midnight -at which time it was actually Good Friday), so mommy would go to church from 10 until midnight to "keep watch" with Our Lord. This was an amazing feeling - know that the apostles had done this so many years before and that the church has been commemorating since.
Funny thing though: Father had specifically requested Son to participate in the foot washing - he had requested a few weeks before for adult male volunteers, but wanted a few "youth" also. When we had read the bulletin (and request) I jokingly said to Hubby that he should volunteer - he said no, he feels like the apostles - that the master should NOT be washing the feet! Well, God is always in control: one of the chairs was empty and Father nodded to Hubby and he participated anyway!! Oh, and they each came home with a loaf of bread that some of the ladies of the church had made!
For right now, I am praying that Hubby gets home from work so I can go to church with the older two children at 1 p.m. today - but in the meantime, I have clothes to hang on the line and children that need breakfast (among many other, boring things to do!)
Funny thing though: Father had specifically requested Son to participate in the foot washing - he had requested a few weeks before for adult male volunteers, but wanted a few "youth" also. When we had read the bulletin (and request) I jokingly said to Hubby that he should volunteer - he said no, he feels like the apostles - that the master should NOT be washing the feet! Well, God is always in control: one of the chairs was empty and Father nodded to Hubby and he participated anyway!! Oh, and they each came home with a loaf of bread that some of the ladies of the church had made!
For right now, I am praying that Hubby gets home from work so I can go to church with the older two children at 1 p.m. today - but in the meantime, I have clothes to hang on the line and children that need breakfast (among many other, boring things to do!)
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Easter Giving
Easter is one of my favorite holidays. Yes, Christmas is nice - the birth of the baby in the manger - but I REALLY like like Easter. Our Lord and Savior died for US, to let us (unworthy though we are!) into heaven. It's amazing. Plus, it happens in spring - so who can't see the correlation between the new birth of everything on earth and the saving of our souls (and, in the Catholic faith, this is also the time of the year that new Catholics are welcomed into the faith) - how exciting!
This year, we decided to help our children understand the meaning of Easter in a new way. (I must say though, the kids are pretty smart on the whole meaning of things - I think being immersed in the faith on a daily basis, as they are - not only at home, but at school too - gives them a greater understanding and grasp on things!) Anyway, this year I felt moved to take a chick off the bulletin board. WHAT?! Yes, I know it sounds weird - here's the story:
Sad, I know. But what father said about them is what really moved me: that not only does this brighten the childs' day, but it helps the family to know that there are others out there that care for them and it lessens their load. Yeah, how could you NOT be affected after hearing it put like that?
So, our child is Jodi, age 16. The children are all excited to put together a basket for her. Daughter #2 insisted that she have a stuffed animal in there (because she's in the hospital, and you NEED a stuffed animal if you're there!). So Jodi's basket consists of: "grass", popcorn, granola bars, 2 different bags of Easter candy, a stuffed lamb, 2 bags of Jelly Bellys (one is Cold Stone Creamery flavored -YUM!) and a five dollar bill stuffed towards the bottom. I know that some of this is very (un)Easter-like ... but there was also a list of suggestions as to what to put in the basket - so we used the list to help us! We hope it brightens her day! :)
This year, we decided to help our children understand the meaning of Easter in a new way. (I must say though, the kids are pretty smart on the whole meaning of things - I think being immersed in the faith on a daily basis, as they are - not only at home, but at school too - gives them a greater understanding and grasp on things!) Anyway, this year I felt moved to take a chick off the bulletin board. WHAT?! Yes, I know it sounds weird - here's the story:
Our church has a bulletin board that we put up at Easter time.
On the board is a paper "chick" with a name, age and male/female on it.
These are children at our local hospital that will be receiving chemo treatment on Easter.
Sad, I know. But what father said about them is what really moved me: that not only does this brighten the childs' day, but it helps the family to know that there are others out there that care for them and it lessens their load. Yeah, how could you NOT be affected after hearing it put like that?
So, our child is Jodi, age 16. The children are all excited to put together a basket for her. Daughter #2 insisted that she have a stuffed animal in there (because she's in the hospital, and you NEED a stuffed animal if you're there!). So Jodi's basket consists of: "grass", popcorn, granola bars, 2 different bags of Easter candy, a stuffed lamb, 2 bags of Jelly Bellys (one is Cold Stone Creamery flavored -YUM!) and a five dollar bill stuffed towards the bottom. I know that some of this is very (un)Easter-like ... but there was also a list of suggestions as to what to put in the basket - so we used the list to help us! We hope it brightens her day! :)
Monday, March 29, 2010
Palm Sunday Service
I hope you all had a blessed Palm Sunday - we sure did!
Father had a lovely procession planned, and due to the weather being nice, we were able to do it. The two older children were servers - I think that they enjoy the closeness of observing everything - it certainly excites me!
Father started by blessing the palms, reading from the gospel and then started the procession - out the back (through the sacristy) and then out around the church and in through the front door. It really made me reflect on how Jesus was welcomed into town - the same people that welcomed him would one week later be yelling "Crucify him!" (that part always always leaves such a sadness in my heart - would I have been one of those people - so welcoming, but then turn on My Lord? I would hope not, but mob mentality is proven - scary!)
But, back to the gladness of Palm Sunday - the procession was grand and we had a photographer there taking pictures, so I will see if I can get ahold of some to post - it was a sight to behold! Again, blessings on our Priest, for bringing back the ways of the church and for sharing such wonderful traditions with the congregation -- bring us back to the church and to the holiness that resides there!
Father had a lovely procession planned, and due to the weather being nice, we were able to do it. The two older children were servers - I think that they enjoy the closeness of observing everything - it certainly excites me!
Father started by blessing the palms, reading from the gospel and then started the procession - out the back (through the sacristy) and then out around the church and in through the front door. It really made me reflect on how Jesus was welcomed into town - the same people that welcomed him would one week later be yelling "Crucify him!" (that part always always leaves such a sadness in my heart - would I have been one of those people - so welcoming, but then turn on My Lord? I would hope not, but mob mentality is proven - scary!)
But, back to the gladness of Palm Sunday - the procession was grand and we had a photographer there taking pictures, so I will see if I can get ahold of some to post - it was a sight to behold! Again, blessings on our Priest, for bringing back the ways of the church and for sharing such wonderful traditions with the congregation -- bring us back to the church and to the holiness that resides there!
Saturday, March 27, 2010
SECRET.....shhhhh
Hubby and I have a secret - and we are having soooo much fun with it online (FB especially).
The Lord has guided us in a wonderful new direction for our family - we are on the verge of something that I wouldn't have thought we would be doing!!
I can't tell our secret yet, but soon - yes very soon! :)
The Lord has guided us in a wonderful new direction for our family - we are on the verge of something that I wouldn't have thought we would be doing!!
I can't tell our secret yet, but soon - yes very soon! :)
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Holy Thursday
Easter is around the corner and I am VERY excited to be celebrating it in a new and fantastic (ok, more like traditional) way this year.
Father Jerome is very much a traditionalist, but not in a bad way. Our previous priest had been doing things pretty much his own way for so many years, that I feel that it will be nice to get back to the basics - back to how "The Church" says it's supposed to be.
Palm Sunday should be fun, yes, FUN with him this year! Both of our older children are serving and they are having an extra practice tomorrow just to prepare for it!
Father called yesterday and requested that Son be one of the 12 men (ok, 10 men and 2 youth) that portray the disciples - he is going to portray Jesus and do the washing of the feet after Mass on Thursday. He is then doing adoration from right after Mass until midnight - all are asked to take their turn and "sit" for an hour with Jesus - AWESOME!!
Oh, and before I forget: we are continually being blessed - this time it's through blogs! There have been several free giveaways that I have entered - and this month I have won THREE!!
The first: I won a HouseParty again! Last month it was a Pull-Ups one, this month it is a Stouffers Sub Party - the value is HUGE - it includes:
The third: another blog giveaway: this time, a pre-loaded credit card for $125!!!
The Lord is great!
Father Jerome is very much a traditionalist, but not in a bad way. Our previous priest had been doing things pretty much his own way for so many years, that I feel that it will be nice to get back to the basics - back to how "The Church" says it's supposed to be.
Palm Sunday should be fun, yes, FUN with him this year! Both of our older children are serving and they are having an extra practice tomorrow just to prepare for it!
Father called yesterday and requested that Son be one of the 12 men (ok, 10 men and 2 youth) that portray the disciples - he is going to portray Jesus and do the washing of the feet after Mass on Thursday. He is then doing adoration from right after Mass until midnight - all are asked to take their turn and "sit" for an hour with Jesus - AWESOME!!
Oh, and before I forget: we are continually being blessed - this time it's through blogs! There have been several free giveaways that I have entered - and this month I have won THREE!!
The first: I won a HouseParty again! Last month it was a Pull-Ups one, this month it is a Stouffers Sub Party - the value is HUGE - it includes:
- VIP Coupons for the host to provide 15 subs at the party (the cost: around $4 EACH!)
- 15 Valuable coupons for guests
- 15 Branded grocery tote bags for your guests
- 1 Branded pot holder for host
- 1 Branded tear pad for host
- Plates and napkins for the party
The third: another blog giveaway: this time, a pre-loaded credit card for $125!!!
The Lord is great!
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Stations of the Cross
Today after Mass we did stations of the cross - if you don't know what this is - look here.
Both of the older children participated in the readings. They learn so much by participation. In all honesty, this was the first time I was able to participate myself. What an experience! Father had come over yesterday - twice - we lost electricity in the morning, so he was unable to print his homily, so he came over to do that before 4 o'clock Mass - then we invited him over after Mass to come and get some meat.
We bought a new freezer (and shingles for the "upper roof" on the house and flooring for the entry way - love Menards and their "no interest, no payments!") - anyway, we invited Father over to take his pick of some meat - he doesn't care for hamburger, but likes something to "chew on" (his words) so he loves the stew meat! He ended up playing Wii with Son for awhile - he really wants to learn how and when he went home to India, everyone was telling him to get one! He was impressed that he could just buy a counsel and "borrow" our games! :)
Anyway - he had said that he did stations after Mass and that everyone stayed - but that he just started right after the closing prayer, so maybe they felt obligated to! :) Well, I think that everyone stayed for stations today too! It is good, good for the soul, good for the members, good for the church!
Tonight is confession - yay. It's that time again and always makes a person feel better. Before I became Catholic, I never understood confession - of course, my comeback was that I could confess my sins directly to God in privacy. I now laugh at that! Really, how many times do people do that? I think the process of reflecting on your sins before hand, going into the confessional to confess them, being forgiven in the name of Lord and then doing a penance is much more cleansing and "real" than "in private" - and what a huge wonderful gift in preparation for Easter!!
Both of the older children participated in the readings. They learn so much by participation. In all honesty, this was the first time I was able to participate myself. What an experience! Father had come over yesterday - twice - we lost electricity in the morning, so he was unable to print his homily, so he came over to do that before 4 o'clock Mass - then we invited him over after Mass to come and get some meat.
We bought a new freezer (and shingles for the "upper roof" on the house and flooring for the entry way - love Menards and their "no interest, no payments!") - anyway, we invited Father over to take his pick of some meat - he doesn't care for hamburger, but likes something to "chew on" (his words) so he loves the stew meat! He ended up playing Wii with Son for awhile - he really wants to learn how and when he went home to India, everyone was telling him to get one! He was impressed that he could just buy a counsel and "borrow" our games! :)
Anyway - he had said that he did stations after Mass and that everyone stayed - but that he just started right after the closing prayer, so maybe they felt obligated to! :) Well, I think that everyone stayed for stations today too! It is good, good for the soul, good for the members, good for the church!
Tonight is confession - yay. It's that time again and always makes a person feel better. Before I became Catholic, I never understood confession - of course, my comeback was that I could confess my sins directly to God in privacy. I now laugh at that! Really, how many times do people do that? I think the process of reflecting on your sins before hand, going into the confessional to confess them, being forgiven in the name of Lord and then doing a penance is much more cleansing and "real" than "in private" - and what a huge wonderful gift in preparation for Easter!!
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Shout out to Catholic Moms
When I first began blogging (this site) it was more to keep family in touch with our lives. Recently (with comments and e-mails I have received), I have been made aware that others are reading too.
I have recently found the Catholic Gadget toolbar - which I LOVE and has made me aware of many catholic blogging mom's out there - AWESOME!!
It's great to know that there are many of us out here in "bloggy land!" It feels my family has increased tenfold.
All of this to say, I am going to focus a little more on faith and family in the coming few months - to post our ups and downs as a "large" family (yes, we are only 7 total, but to many, that is large!) and to post about learning our faith - you see, I am a recent convert (8 years ago, this December) so even though I learned a LOT about the faith, there is still a LOT that I continue to learn.
So, even if you are not catholic, you may still find interest in these posts, but many of them (time permitting, of course!) will be more catholic based - of course, I will be continuing to post on Moneyless Momma's, so keep an eye on that site too! :)
I have recently found the Catholic Gadget toolbar - which I LOVE and has made me aware of many catholic blogging mom's out there - AWESOME!!
It's great to know that there are many of us out here in "bloggy land!" It feels my family has increased tenfold.
All of this to say, I am going to focus a little more on faith and family in the coming few months - to post our ups and downs as a "large" family (yes, we are only 7 total, but to many, that is large!) and to post about learning our faith - you see, I am a recent convert (8 years ago, this December) so even though I learned a LOT about the faith, there is still a LOT that I continue to learn.
So, even if you are not catholic, you may still find interest in these posts, but many of them (time permitting, of course!) will be more catholic based - of course, I will be continuing to post on Moneyless Momma's, so keep an eye on that site too! :)
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Wednesday (because I can't think of a better title!!)
This morning Hubby and I went to Menards and bought lots of paint and painting supplies - most of them free after rebate - can you guess what I will be doing during summer vacation?!
When we got home, our priest came over for a visit. It was so nice to be able to stand outside and chat - the weather was beautiful! :) (for those of you who don't know - our priest is also our next door neighbor - are we blessed, or what!!) Last summer, we frequently had him over for fires in the evenings. Good fellowship and companionship. It taught the kids that our priest is human, just like us. He teaches Hubby and I so much - not just spiritually, but also the differences in culture (he is from India). I think this summer will be more fun, as we have been told that our neighbor sold her house, so new neighbors will be moving-in in May.
Had a great time this evening walking with a friend. Hubby stayed home with the kids and mommy got some exercise and much needed time away from the house! I realize how lucky I am to have friends with the same faith, similar goals and thinking (as in raising children, saving money, not eating out frequently, etc).
We are looking forward to start tilling our garden - soon....very, very soon!
When we got home, our priest came over for a visit. It was so nice to be able to stand outside and chat - the weather was beautiful! :) (for those of you who don't know - our priest is also our next door neighbor - are we blessed, or what!!) Last summer, we frequently had him over for fires in the evenings. Good fellowship and companionship. It taught the kids that our priest is human, just like us. He teaches Hubby and I so much - not just spiritually, but also the differences in culture (he is from India). I think this summer will be more fun, as we have been told that our neighbor sold her house, so new neighbors will be moving-in in May.
Had a great time this evening walking with a friend. Hubby stayed home with the kids and mommy got some exercise and much needed time away from the house! I realize how lucky I am to have friends with the same faith, similar goals and thinking (as in raising children, saving money, not eating out frequently, etc).
We are looking forward to start tilling our garden - soon....very, very soon!
Monday, March 15, 2010
Time with my dad
Today I got to spend time with my dad. I love to - it reminds me of when I was little and we used to be able to spend time with each other.
It wasn't just us today - it was time spent with cousins and friends of the family too. We spent all morning cutting up the cow and lots of chatting around the table. The thing I like most about this time spent is the reminiscing - how things "used " to be - how things were done, what they "used" to do, etc. We STILL use the same exact recipe that my grandfather used to use to make our brats (that's why they're so yummy!).
As we were wrapping the meat, dad said he payed for it and I didn't have to worry about paying him back - thanks dad! :) When all was said and done, we ended up with half the cow - to the tune of about 110 pounds total (stew meat, a few packages of hamburger (for eating tonight and a package for our priest) and 60 pounds for snack sticks - half for us and half for dad). All I can say, is that God provides.
My thought for the day: God is showing us that he supplies for our needs.
May God richly bless you!
It wasn't just us today - it was time spent with cousins and friends of the family too. We spent all morning cutting up the cow and lots of chatting around the table. The thing I like most about this time spent is the reminiscing - how things "used " to be - how things were done, what they "used" to do, etc. We STILL use the same exact recipe that my grandfather used to use to make our brats (that's why they're so yummy!).
As we were wrapping the meat, dad said he payed for it and I didn't have to worry about paying him back - thanks dad! :) When all was said and done, we ended up with half the cow - to the tune of about 110 pounds total (stew meat, a few packages of hamburger (for eating tonight and a package for our priest) and 60 pounds for snack sticks - half for us and half for dad). All I can say, is that God provides.
My thought for the day: God is showing us that he supplies for our needs.
May God richly bless you!
Saturday, March 13, 2010
We are blessed
We are blessed. Truly we are.
God has given us a beautiful home, five wonderful children, 3 vehicles. Family that supports and loves us, wonderful neighbors, great friends.
Again, another "down cow" has been given to us. More meat for our already overflowing freezers (thanks mom and dad for storing the overflow for us!).
We are blessed to have our own home, when so many are losing theirs. We are blessed to have our vehicles, when many can't even afford one. We are blessed that my parents taught me to be a money manger, to save, to have an emergency fund (sorry Dave Ramsey, you were NOT the first to think of this, only the first to write a book about it!). Even though Hubby is not working every day (laid-off half the week, usually) we are blessed with the ability to make our payments, on time and in full - every month.
A quote from a favorite movie:
Titanic - Jack: Well, yes, ma'am, I do... I mean, I got everything I need right here with me. I got air in my lungs, a few blank sheets of paper. I mean, I love waking up in the morning not knowing what's gonna happen or, who I'm gonna meet, where I'm gonna wind up. Just the other night I was sleeping under a bridge and now here I am on the grandest ship in the world having champagne with you fine people. I figure life's a gift and I don't intend on wasting it. You don't know what hand you're gonna get dealt next. You learn to take life as it comes at you... to make each day count.
Thanks for helping me count our blessings!!
God has given us a beautiful home, five wonderful children, 3 vehicles. Family that supports and loves us, wonderful neighbors, great friends.
Again, another "down cow" has been given to us. More meat for our already overflowing freezers (thanks mom and dad for storing the overflow for us!).
We are blessed to have our own home, when so many are losing theirs. We are blessed to have our vehicles, when many can't even afford one. We are blessed that my parents taught me to be a money manger, to save, to have an emergency fund (sorry Dave Ramsey, you were NOT the first to think of this, only the first to write a book about it!). Even though Hubby is not working every day (laid-off half the week, usually) we are blessed with the ability to make our payments, on time and in full - every month.
A quote from a favorite movie:
Titanic - Jack: Well, yes, ma'am, I do... I mean, I got everything I need right here with me. I got air in my lungs, a few blank sheets of paper. I mean, I love waking up in the morning not knowing what's gonna happen or, who I'm gonna meet, where I'm gonna wind up. Just the other night I was sleeping under a bridge and now here I am on the grandest ship in the world having champagne with you fine people. I figure life's a gift and I don't intend on wasting it. You don't know what hand you're gonna get dealt next. You learn to take life as it comes at you... to make each day count.
Thanks for helping me count our blessings!!
Mass
The solidarity of my faith amazes me.
The world can be spinning out of control (or my life, or whatever) and no matter which Catholic church I walk into, it's the same. It doesn't change. No funky, new age stuff. No messing with the liturgy or bringing in new ideas. It's the same. Uniform. Classic. It's been that way since Christ established the church and will be that way until he comes home for it.
Amazing. Mass was amazing tonight. The feeling was amazing. The realization that so many people have sat and listened to the same mass for so many years - astonishing.
What do I love about my church? The pure history - tracing it right back to Christ - not to a man who founded it because he didn't like some other religion....amazing.
God is good!
Praise God!
The world can be spinning out of control (or my life, or whatever) and no matter which Catholic church I walk into, it's the same. It doesn't change. No funky, new age stuff. No messing with the liturgy or bringing in new ideas. It's the same. Uniform. Classic. It's been that way since Christ established the church and will be that way until he comes home for it.
Amazing. Mass was amazing tonight. The feeling was amazing. The realization that so many people have sat and listened to the same mass for so many years - astonishing.
What do I love about my church? The pure history - tracing it right back to Christ - not to a man who founded it because he didn't like some other religion....amazing.
God is good!
Praise God!
Friday, March 12, 2010
Kids' stuff
Here's the low down on the kiddos:
NO SCHOOL today for them, so they went bowling with daddy while mommy stayed home with the baby.
Son went back to school yesterday - LOVING bowling for phy-ed. Feeling MUCH better.
Daughter #1 went to see the Dr. today and has strep too, argh - God grant me the ability to forgive the person who gave it to us (because right now, I would really like to call her and scream at her!)
Daughter #2 now has NO top front teeth - I pulled the second one out a few hours ago! :)
Hubby is off getting us Friday night fish and deep fried cheese curds - have I said recently that I love the man? Well, I DO!!
NO SCHOOL today for them, so they went bowling with daddy while mommy stayed home with the baby.
Son went back to school yesterday - LOVING bowling for phy-ed. Feeling MUCH better.
Daughter #1 went to see the Dr. today and has strep too, argh - God grant me the ability to forgive the person who gave it to us (because right now, I would really like to call her and scream at her!)
Daughter #2 now has NO top front teeth - I pulled the second one out a few hours ago! :)
Hubby is off getting us Friday night fish and deep fried cheese curds - have I said recently that I love the man? Well, I DO!!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
The results are in:
NOTHING major!! ((PRAISE GOD!!))
~no weird diseases, no more surgeries required, etc (no lactose intolerance, no Celiac's disease....and on and on)
~she DOES have increased acid reflux for a person her age and it goes on longer than normal. We will be "going old school" (in the doc's words) and trying a drug that they used to use years ago (which, truth-be-told, I like the old tried-n-trues better - less worry about side effects)
On other news - I am loving the new weight loss support group we have started. We'll know "official results" on Saturday (inches as well as weight) but as of this morning I am down THREE POUNDS from last week!! YAY! I think that it is highly motivating to have to be held accountable to someone other than yourself! I am back on SP tracking my caloric intake, so that always makes a difference too. AND I've taken in to God in prayer - if I can pray about everything else, why shouldn't I take it to the lord??!!
~no weird diseases, no more surgeries required, etc (no lactose intolerance, no Celiac's disease....and on and on)
~she DOES have increased acid reflux for a person her age and it goes on longer than normal. We will be "going old school" (in the doc's words) and trying a drug that they used to use years ago (which, truth-be-told, I like the old tried-n-trues better - less worry about side effects)
On other news - I am loving the new weight loss support group we have started. We'll know "official results" on Saturday (inches as well as weight) but as of this morning I am down THREE POUNDS from last week!! YAY! I think that it is highly motivating to have to be held accountable to someone other than yourself! I am back on SP tracking my caloric intake, so that always makes a difference too. AND I've taken in to God in prayer - if I can pray about everything else, why shouldn't I take it to the lord??!!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
This-n-that
Things are going ok.
Son has strep, so he stayed home today.
None of the Daughters show any sign of it yet, thank goodness!
I stopped in at the dollar store yesterday to pick up some dishwasher soap and saw some girls' winter boots on the 70% off table - only $3 (only 2 pairs) - so I picked them both up. Imagine my surprise when they rang up as $1 PER PAIR!!! The cashier smiled and said, "hmm, must be 90% off now!" As I was leaving, she was checking prices on clothing.....so, I asked my mom to stop in there - yep, even the clothes are 90% off now! She picked up a $14 worth of clothes for the kids, but I think I'll be heading over there and seeing what else is left...80 cents for a new pair of pants?! AWESOME!!
I thought I was doing well with buying Gaucho pants for Daughter #1 (from Target, including shipping) 6 pair for $25....well, mom beat me this time! :)
Still waiting on a call for results from surgery.....biopsies and the Bravo Ph - hope to know more soon.
Sweet little 5 year old daughter wanted to make cut-out today - for Easter....um, yeah, but mommy knows they'll be gone before then! :) But we did, and she had a blast - now the older kids are all home from school and itching to frost them, ah, the calories!
Speaking of calories: my workouts are going great and calorie counting, well, not soo bad! The weight is coming off, I must just stay committed (and pray ALOT!!).
Oh yes, and I have off the rest of this week and next week for spring break! (thanks to a great instructor who gave us "work days" today and tomorrow!)
Son has strep, so he stayed home today.
None of the Daughters show any sign of it yet, thank goodness!
I stopped in at the dollar store yesterday to pick up some dishwasher soap and saw some girls' winter boots on the 70% off table - only $3 (only 2 pairs) - so I picked them both up. Imagine my surprise when they rang up as $1 PER PAIR!!! The cashier smiled and said, "hmm, must be 90% off now!" As I was leaving, she was checking prices on clothing.....so, I asked my mom to stop in there - yep, even the clothes are 90% off now! She picked up a $14 worth of clothes for the kids, but I think I'll be heading over there and seeing what else is left...80 cents for a new pair of pants?! AWESOME!!
I thought I was doing well with buying Gaucho pants for Daughter #1 (from Target, including shipping) 6 pair for $25....well, mom beat me this time! :)
Still waiting on a call for results from surgery.....biopsies and the Bravo Ph - hope to know more soon.
Sweet little 5 year old daughter wanted to make cut-out today - for Easter....um, yeah, but mommy knows they'll be gone before then! :) But we did, and she had a blast - now the older kids are all home from school and itching to frost them, ah, the calories!
Speaking of calories: my workouts are going great and calorie counting, well, not soo bad! The weight is coming off, I must just stay committed (and pray ALOT!!).
Oh yes, and I have off the rest of this week and next week for spring break! (thanks to a great instructor who gave us "work days" today and tomorrow!)
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Surgery
Tomorrow is the day for surgeries, I guess. Daughter #1 has surgery AND my brother....although his is by choice (vasectomy).
Lots of prayers going up as friends and family have gathered around to support us.
Daughter got a few "good luck" phone calls today and took the whole "colon cleansing" really well. She took a book into the bathroom with her and stayed there for awhile - but kept a pleasant attitude most of the day. Her teacher sent her homework home and she finished it this morning - yes, two days of work in 1 morning - if I ever decided to homeschool - she would be EASY!! She was also a darling about eating only Jello and popsicles and drinking only clear fluids. She is indeed, a special child.
Everything else is going well....time to pack a bag.
Pray for us.
Lots of prayers going up as friends and family have gathered around to support us.
Daughter got a few "good luck" phone calls today and took the whole "colon cleansing" really well. She took a book into the bathroom with her and stayed there for awhile - but kept a pleasant attitude most of the day. Her teacher sent her homework home and she finished it this morning - yes, two days of work in 1 morning - if I ever decided to homeschool - she would be EASY!! She was also a darling about eating only Jello and popsicles and drinking only clear fluids. She is indeed, a special child.
Everything else is going well....time to pack a bag.
Pray for us.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Power Points
Yep, busy with the power point presentations for school - three due - well, not until May, but hey, I like to be done EARLY - because I like to be first! LOL Besides, if I get done early, then I can give my presentation and be done and not worry about it!
Today counts down 3 days until Daughter #1's surgery. I am hoping that Hubby gets the day off. So far, he has been laid-off all week this week, so I can hope! It would make life much easier, to have him home.
The girls (and pup) and I took a walk to the library today. Daughter #4 walked ALL THE WAY there! Now, granted, it is only about 4 blocks, but she walked ALL THE WAY BACK too! Seeing as how she is only 19 months old, I am pretty impressed. Daughter #3 had to ride in the wagon - next time, the wagon stays at home!
Today counts down 3 days until Daughter #1's surgery. I am hoping that Hubby gets the day off. So far, he has been laid-off all week this week, so I can hope! It would make life much easier, to have him home.
The girls (and pup) and I took a walk to the library today. Daughter #4 walked ALL THE WAY there! Now, granted, it is only about 4 blocks, but she walked ALL THE WAY BACK too! Seeing as how she is only 19 months old, I am pretty impressed. Daughter #3 had to ride in the wagon - next time, the wagon stays at home!
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Been awhile...again.
It's been awhile, again, but life is busy - and it's a good thing, as I am trying to spend less time online. Yes, there are lots of GREAT things that can be found online (especially money-saving stuff, which you KNOW I love!) but being online is a time sucker. The time flies and other things don't get done. The less time I spend online, the more clean my house is, the more I study (hence, the straight A student!), the more time we spend together as a family, the more I stick to my exercise routine! Yes, being online MAY be nice, but it has many downfalls too!
My aunt had a hysterectomy last week - it seems as though the cancer WAS contained in the uterus and she should be ok. God is good.
The kids all had dental cleanings - only 1 small cavity each for Daughter #1 and #3 - Son and Daughter #2 get sealants put on soon.
Daughter #1 has her surgery this week. We pray that they can figure her problems out and that they can be dealt with and gone away, so she doesn't suffer anymore.
Son and Hubby are out snowmobiling. Male bonding time! LOVE my parents, for keeping the sleds - mostly only for the kids now, as no one trail rides anymore.
Tanning is going well - not only am I get color, but the psoriasis is going away - not completely, but I've only gone ten times now. :)
My aunt had a hysterectomy last week - it seems as though the cancer WAS contained in the uterus and she should be ok. God is good.
The kids all had dental cleanings - only 1 small cavity each for Daughter #1 and #3 - Son and Daughter #2 get sealants put on soon.
Daughter #1 has her surgery this week. We pray that they can figure her problems out and that they can be dealt with and gone away, so she doesn't suffer anymore.
Son and Hubby are out snowmobiling. Male bonding time! LOVE my parents, for keeping the sleds - mostly only for the kids now, as no one trail rides anymore.
Tanning is going well - not only am I get color, but the psoriasis is going away - not completely, but I've only gone ten times now. :)
Friday, February 19, 2010
Fasting
Gospel, Mt 9:14-15
This is today's gospel. I love it. It tells as Catholics why we fast. I also happen to like what my 7 year old daughter said to my mother yesterday while they were discussing what they were giving up (giving up = fasting) for lent (who is protestant and told her in HER religion they don't give up something for lent). She said this: "We give something up for lent because Jesus gave up his LIFE for us." Yep, proud moments in this mommy's world. See, the kiddos GET IT...and are spreading the word. So I turned to my mom and said, "and it doesn't matter WHAT religion you are, you can still give something up, right?!"
So with renewed (thanks 7 year old daughter) fervor, I fast from meat today....if Jesus gave up his life for us, I can give up meat on Friday's during lent....what a small sacrifice compared to what HE gave!
On other news....wait, there is no other new! LOL.....life is moving on as normal, the kids are growing and attending school, Hubby is working more than not - yep, nothing significant to report! :)
14 Then John's disciples came to him and said, 'Why is it that we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not?'
15 Jesus replied, 'Surely the bridegroom's attendants cannot mourn as long as the bridegroom is still with them? But the time will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.This is today's gospel. I love it. It tells as Catholics why we fast. I also happen to like what my 7 year old daughter said to my mother yesterday while they were discussing what they were giving up (giving up = fasting) for lent (who is protestant and told her in HER religion they don't give up something for lent). She said this: "We give something up for lent because Jesus gave up his LIFE for us." Yep, proud moments in this mommy's world. See, the kiddos GET IT...and are spreading the word. So I turned to my mom and said, "and it doesn't matter WHAT religion you are, you can still give something up, right?!"
So with renewed (thanks 7 year old daughter) fervor, I fast from meat today....if Jesus gave up his life for us, I can give up meat on Friday's during lent....what a small sacrifice compared to what HE gave!
On other news....wait, there is no other new! LOL.....life is moving on as normal, the kids are growing and attending school, Hubby is working more than not - yep, nothing significant to report! :)
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