And Now for Seven

Daybook: Halfway Through September

2011-09-19T09:01:00.000-04:00

Right now...Kids should be eating breakfast, but they are playing in the front room instead.

Later today...I have to mow the lawn before we start lessons. Don't worry, it is the size a postage stamp. It will just take a few minutes. Not quite sure what the whole of today looks like. Definitely ballet this afternoon and a trip to the library.

Later this week...The usual. Anna may attend a Board Breaking Seminar on Saturday.

Living the Liturgy...Padre Pio's feast is on Friday. I have always credited him with sending Anna our way. I was blessed with a relic of his just before I became pregnant with her. When she was born, the midwife I discovered that the umbilical cord had an unusual (and rare, so rare in fact, that she asked me if she could show any medical/nursing students the placenta. Um sure, show-and-tell all you want) attachment to the placenta. I honestly cannot remember what it was. We had no idea during the pregnancy. If things had not gone just right during delivery, things could have gotten a little dangerous. I'm sure Padre Pio kept me and Anna safe.

From the schoolroom...Ordered a couple more books as I feel out where all the kids want to be this year. I am extremely pleased with what Anna is doing this year. It is working out beautifully. I hope the friend who inspired me to let her do this reads this ;)

I am praying...this week it seems I've become aware of many people suffering with very serious illness, people suffering with pain. I'm offering up all my little and very minor discomforts this week for them.

I am grateful...for Carmen's soccer coach. Since my blogging has been so light over the past year, I never really shared much about her difficult seasons last year. One season was a coach that had never coached and whose knowledge of soccer was extremely limited (she knew that you had to kick the ball). The next season was a bad coach. I hate to say it, but there is no other way to put it. He constantly reminded Carmen how small she was, she didn't kick hard enough, and so on. She is not one to quit. She played as hard as ever and at least she really learned how to play defense extremely well. They only won one game. It was tough. We wondered what we would do come fall, considered changing leagues. In the end we decided that as long as we could assure she would never have that coach again, we'd stick where we were. I offered some fervent prayers to a sweet little saint in heaven. Oh my! The blessings that have come our way. An amazing coach, who plays and loves the game. Good friends for teammates. Other experienced players. A coach who sees what Carmen can do and smiles. Who trusts Carmen and only wants to help her play better and better.
They won on Saturday. Better than the win was Carmen's joy. Joy in a well played game. Trusting her teammates. Relying on her coach.

I am reading...
The Story of Charlotte's Web: E. B. White's Eccentric Life in Nature and the Birth of an American Classic
Little Way of Homeschooling
Three Cups of Tea
In the Garden of Beasts

I'm pondering....Where and how the sewing machine will fit in the schoolroom and plans. I think we definitely need a book to work through. I have a tiny fabric stash to start. Very tiny.

Around the house...I mentioned in passing to big people in my house that the first floor was a "disaster" last night. It is very nicely tidied this morning. Lovely :)

In the kitchen...Apple stuff. Hope to pick soon. Happily, Wegman's has some varieties for $ .89/lb.

On the knitting needles...started a Milo for Aggie in fall colors. Saw a cool new yarn and adorable pattern at knitpicks that may become some gifts for Aggie and Kay.

I am creating...A good plan for Sam.

Picture Thought...Graduating to Red Belt.

Daybook: Back to School

2011-09-12T10:23:00.000-04:00

Right now...Kids are finishing up breakfast, though some who shall remain nameless have not emerged from their caves. Late start this morning.

Later today...The start of ballet for Kay and Aggie. Aggie is so so excited. I can hardly wait myself.

Later this week...Here we go! Everything is a go this week. And I am feeling so blessed with our schedule. It is busy, every afternoon. And yet, we are home, every morning and early afternoon. Glorious, peaceful time where learning is happening. More on that in a minute.

Living the Liturgy...A favorite, the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. I have a simple lesson and beautiful icons.

From the schoolroom...Despite the state of the physical room, learning is happening. Not perfect, but joyful and peaceful. Truth is, there are a few things I'm still "planning" for some kids. Good thing is I have plenty of books to be read in this house. And math. But there are many thing working incredibly well. Aggie loves "school". Really I just think she loves being with me and Mara. Let me tell you, her enthusiasm and joy is infectious. Nothing like almost-five-year-old to inspire. And she does. Every day. Even when she's covered in hives like she was last week. (Probably allergic to cantaloupe.)
That is all very vague. If I have time maybe I'll pull together a post with more specifics.

I am praying...For all the sorrows of September.

My sister-in-law as she defends her dissertation.

Students all around the world.

I am grateful...God's grace that knows best how to plan my days.

Inspiration in the schoolroom.

I am reading...Never Let Me Go
The Story of Charlotte's Web: E. B. White's Eccentric Life in Nature and the Birth of an American Classic
Little Way of Homeschooling

I think there's more, but school needs to start soon.

I'm pondering....The chapter on competition in Ten Habits.

Around the house...Since the mega laundry work before our beach trip, we are staying pretty well caught up. I can't tell you what a comfort that is. My schoolroom is a disaster. This must get rectified this week since co-op is at my house and there will be 12 other children needing to use the table currently covered in stuff. And, oh yeah, the last bench from the van is still in the living room from when we took it out for the beach trip.I am amazed by how little this bothers me at this point.

In the kitchen...Meals that work with busy afternoons. The crockpot is my friend. And a teen that can cook.

On the knitting needles...Nothing. I finished a Milo vest for Johnny. It is darling. I really like the pattern. Aggie wants one so perhaps I'll get started on that. I'm feeling like I need some inspiration. Maybe a new yarn just for a special project...Lilly wants a sweater, Maddy a shawl...hmmm.

I am creating...Art. Really. I am doing art with co-op and this means doing it with them. It is hard to let myself go, to draw, sketch and experiment. Also, this time, we really will make the Alphabet Path saints. I mean it.

And sewing...Sigh. I have a sewing machine. I know how to use it. I have even made a few garments here and there. Every year around Halloween I am furiously sewing something. And then there is Carmen. Who wants to sew. Begs to sew. For over a year. She is so upset with me and is becoming cynical. I have to sew with her this year. Especially since it is clear God has given me the schedule to do it. The sewing machine will come live in the schoolroom. I can do this.

Picture Thought...I was looking for a recent picture of Mara, but found this one of Maddy and Lilly.
Made my heart melt. Where did the time go?

On the Eve

2011-09-10T22:39:00.001-04:00

I'm not sure that I have ever written much on the 9/11 Anniversaries. I can never seem to find the right words. Even now, I struggle. I write a sentence, then delete the whole thing.

But I want to try. I want to try because of Anna. My daughter Anna will turn ten years old in December. As this anniversary has approached I have found myself thinking about her a great deal. Perhaps it is because my most vivid memories associated with that day was how aware I was of her rolling and kicking in my belly. And the sad feeling that this baby was to be born into a completely different world than the one that existed just one day earlier. She would come into a world at war.

I have little true personal connection with the immense tragedy so many families suffered that day. Peace was my casualty. I remember calling my parents, being on the phone with my father as the reports of the plane hitting the Pentagon started to come through. The Pentagon? Really? How was that possible? Having grown up in Northern Virginia, I was used to the stream of military families constantly moving through the area. I'm certain I had friends growing up whose father's worked at the Pentagon. It was surreal. I remember thinking that my youngest sister had just recently flown out to California and flown out of Dulles. The thought made me ill.

Completely unrelated to 9/11, my parents happen to be in New York City this weekend. Its scary. My brother lives there. Its scary. We go on, we live our lives. We try harder to love. We carry the shared grief for so much life lost, for our peace shattered. We try try harder to live each day intentionally. We go on. That baby I worried about earned a new belt in Tae Kwon Do today. We go on. We remember. We pray.

Suds and Soccer

2011-07-13T17:17:00.000-04:00

I started this post earlier and it quickly become rambly and incoherent.

You see, I was caught up in the thrill of the US Women's Soccer team win over France.They go on to the final for the Women's World Cup on Sunday. As I wrote, I realized that the post had warped into one about the game they played on Sunday against Brazil. If you love soccer, you know about That Game. (If you don't, goggle it.) Carmen is our soccer player. She loves soccer. Loves. The truth is, as thrilling as Sunday's and today's games were on their own, experienced through eyes of my daughter makes them even more amazing. And I guess this post is just about soccer in general too, isn't it?

It is such a beautiful sport. A game played on big fields, yet centimeters can mean the difference between a win and a loss as a ball just slips past the fingertips of the keeper. A game of stamina where players don't stop moving, don't take timeouts and have to be ready for the long haul knowing that the right shot, even in the final seconds can spell victory or defeat. A game where the best athletes bring their hearts onto the field and are ready to play until they burst.

The US Women play with so much heart. So does Carmen. She gives every bit of herself to the game. And yet through it all, she is joyful. Just because she gets to play.

And why suds? Carmen, my tough as nails soccer player has long begged to take a "classic bath" (that is her expression, she is full of quirky phrases). She means a fill the tub with warm water (and maybe bubbles) and soak bath. Maybe even read. In our busy busy home, where hot water can come at a premium, and the goal is just get 'em washed and in bed, a "classic bath" seems a luxury. She begged, even asked for her birthday (its coming up). And so, this weekend, Dave bought a stopper for the drain and last night Carmen soaked in a silky lavender and chamomile bubble bath.

And why do these things all go together? I guess, in the end, this post is really just about Carmen.

Go Laugh

2011-06-21T10:00:00.001-04:00

I know, I know. What a totally random thing to pop back in and blog.
But it is so funny.
http://www.creativeminorityreport.com/2011/06/major-announcement-we-are-gods.html

(I'm doing this from my iPod, so forgive the lack of eloquence or elegance. By the way, I find it totally hysterical how the iPod autocorrects my spelling if iPod. Darn you if you don't capitalize the p.)

Worth Doing Right

2011-05-30T11:50:00.000-04:00

No picture.

I am starting over.

I got through to the end of the decreases and I somehow ended up with way to many rows. I somehow must have increased too many stitches on row 11. I was happy to live with, but after "reading" my knitting thus far, I also realized my stitch count was off, leaving me with differing numbers of stitches on either side of the diagonals. That might have been okay too.

Except.

I was frustrated. It wasn't right. I know part of knitting is accepting those imperfections, but right now, for this project, it is not okay. I don't want perfection, but I do want a finished project that reflects careful attention and beauty.

Plus, I hated the yarn. Oh my. Am I yarn snob? Maybe. All I know is, the blanket I am still working on for Mara is with an absolutely beautiful yarn, a merino wool blend that feels luxurious between my fingers and moves wonderfully on my needles. I love holding this yarn. The blanket is stitched on small needles, a tiny little seed stitch that I never tire of. Knit, purl, knit , purl...

There is something to be said for seeking the best materials to work with. The acrylic yarn felt fake, plastic. And I've realized that with these materials, I put less attention and care into what I was doing.

I could write extensively on what this has taught me about real life. About prayer.

When I start my day, hurried and flustered, without the effort of prayer, I am less attentive to my children, my husband, my duties. I know I have the perfect pattern to follow, the Divine Office, the prayer of the Church that marks the hours, that keeps me from dropping stitches (so to speak). It ensures I don't add anything that shouldn't be there either. For me, that means whining or asking for things the good Lord know I do not need. Follow the pattern and the product, an authentic life of prayer and God's grace, will come together. God's mercy covers the imperfections, the dropped stitches, the odd seams.

When creating something beautiful, meant for someone we love, it is worth doing right, with the best we can offer. As I work to create a home, a life for the people I love, it is worth doing right, all the time. With God as my helper, I'm learning, even while I knit.

(I hope to catch up quickly. I have plenty of time to knit at the pool with th baby in the sling and Johnny and Aggie happily playing in the baby pool. First I need to order some yarn. Some really nice yarn.)

Where I Knit My First Garment

2011-05-10T18:48:00.000-04:00

About 17 years ago I taught myself how to crochet. I was amazed how quickly I picked it up and how much I loved it. But it seems it is in my blood. My grandmother (on my mother's side) crochets. She still does, in her 80's creating beautiful and intricate lace placemats and whole tablecloths.

About 3 or 4 years ago I taught myself how to knit. The internet is really amzing. Everything I needed to know was right there. I love knitting. But I am lazy and generally hate following patterns (this was true of crocheting as well) so I have never knitted or crocheted more than scarves, blankets and the occasional hat (actually I have only crocheted hats).

So, here I am, working my first garment. This is yarn I had on hand, an acrylic that I got at the local craft store, leftover from a crochet project years ago. I *think* it is worsted weight. I am using size 8, 24 inch circular needles. I am so very lazy, I could care less about the specific sizing this time around since I figure it will fit the baby at some point. Didn't bother with a swatch. Lazy, remember? I could probably do with a slightly longer cable, but I don't have one and well, on top of being lazy I am also ~~cheap~~ frugal.

Check out the custom stitch markers ;)

So far so good, I think...I hope. I was surprised how quickly I was able to work these first 10 rows.

Too Blessed to Count

2011-04-11T18:25:00.001-04:00

Mara, born April 5.

One More Week

2011-03-14T15:59:00.000-04:00

So many blessings I can count this week, but the best of all is just that, one more week.

One more week for my little girl to stay tucked up inside under my heart, one more week of feeling her stretch her limbs, one more week of seeing her on ultrasound, always with one arm right by her face. One more week, my body still a safe haven.

The Begining of Lent

2011-03-10T15:54:00.000-05:00

A week ago I was in the hospital. I had contractions that needed several doses of medication to come to a stop and some abnormal blood work that prompted the doctors to want to monitor me closely. I spent three days there. Things improved and I was able to come home. It was SO good to be home.

But now I must be patient. I must be still. I must let my husband and children do many things for me. I must let friends and family help me. I want my baby girl to have as long as she can to develop. Other complications may still interfere and make outside safer than inside before she is full term. I have accepted that.

In the meantime, I must be still. It is frustrating. It is difficult. The truth is, I generally feel fine. Since leaving the hospital, contractions have been minimal. But I know, the moment I push myself just that little bit too far, even if it is going up and down the stairs just one time too many during the day, they will start again. I must die to myself, to my need to constantly move and do in this busy house and I must be still.

Lent has begun. We did not hide the Alleluia. I do not have the mantle letters spelling "Repent" out. I couldn't make our traditional pretzels yesterday. I have not printed out any calendars to help my little ones mark the days. I don't have any particular book or devotion ready to go. Does it matter?

My children have spent the last two weeks laying themselves down to serve me and each other. They know what Lent means. God has shown me how I must be still, how I must pray, how His grace is sufficient to carry me through every crisis and concern. God has whispered to my heart that the best way to prepare is to spend time in His word. So I will find a simple way to do this. All I really need is a bible and the prayer of the church. I have been humbled by my husband's tender love and care for me and our sweet girl.

This is Lent. It is good.

Simply Waiting

2011-02-22T17:53:00.003-05:00

Soon I will welcome a new daughter. This time my preparations have been marked by careful vigilance of my health with the awareness I may be holding her sooner than expected.

I find myself having to slow down and prepare in simple ways every day. A little load of baby laundry here, pulling out slings there, having a small bag ready with at least the essentials for the hospital.

And prayer. Lots of prayer. My sister reminds me almost every time I talk with her over the phone, she is praying. I know it, I feel it. Her prayers and many people dear to me. When I lose sight of that, I feel the anxiety.

The simplest preparation after all is prayer.

Small Steps Together: Contagious Joy

2011-01-25T18:31:00.000-05:00

My almost 15 year old daughter has been teaching me about joy. Yes, teens can be sullen, moody and silent. She definitely has her moments. But the past few weeks she has resolved to be helpful and attentive to the needs of everyone in this house. But more than that, I have seen her embrace this resolution with JOY. When she comes home from being away for a day, she rushes to greet her 2 year old brother with JOY. Every day, in some small way, she is teaching me this wonderful way to carry on, when I'm tired, when I ache, when I just want to be left alone. I think of this beautiful teen in my house, resolved to bring her energy and JOY to all of us.

Daybook on the March for Life

2011-01-24T10:51:00.001-05:00

Right now...I am attempting to post from my itouch. This will probably be shorter than usual.

In a little while...Need to put some real clothes on, drop teens at church, find something fun, maybe artsy to do with my little girls (and boy).

This week...we're in a comfortable pace right now. It's nice to be moving somewhat peacefully through the week, with no activities overwhelming us. I want to use this time to gather fortitude and grace. Soon I will need to be visiting doctors with more frequency and watching my health even more carefully. It still feels somewhat to think we'll be welcoming a new little girl soon...very soon.

Living the liturgy...Preparing for Candlemas, Johnny's original due date, a day that filled me with such hope as I faced those difficult days during that pregnancy. Still filled with great hope and joy.

I am praying...All those facing difficult circumstances during pregnancy and all women who have been mortally wounded by the lie of abortion.

I am thankful...I really want to start in on Ann's Multitude Mondays series. Can't link with the app I'm using. For today these 3 things:
Lilly playing basketball
Dave grocery shopping with me
Football with Johnny

On my Kindle...One Thousand Gifts. I also downloaded Democracy in America. Read bits of it in high school, just felt inspired to read it all. Also Light of the World. Have I mentioned how thrilling it is to be able to carry so many books around with my Kindle?

From the schoolroom...Little girls wrapping up a mini Viking study. On to knights and castles. I am always so motivated and inspired by Carmen. That girl just loves to learn, to really soak up knowledge and ponder it. We are going to use this time well. So grateful I have well planned weeks ahead.

Woohoo Packers!

Reflecting the Love of God

2011-01-12T17:17:00.000-05:00

A conversation Lilly and I had the other day centered on who I would entrust the care of my children with should something tragic happen to me and Dave. It really was not morbid at all and led to a wonderful insight on my part. The question was, apart from family, how would I feel about the children being cared for by some of the families we are blessed to have as part of our lives. The answer, which made me oh so happy, was pretty darn good. The answer really is so simple. These people I have let into my heart, into my life, love my children. I would not doubt for one moment that they would love and care for my children, that would continue to help them grow closer to God and win the race to Heaven. Truly, what more can I ask for.

I know. I would ask that they would know how grateful I am to have them in my life. I would ask that, by God's grace, they would see the love of God reflected in me for their dear children and that I too long to share the beatific vision with them. I would ask that whatever is lacking in me be filled with God's grace. And of course, I long for this within my family as well.

I want to live this year, my whole life, with this reflection ever present. Do I bring the Light of Christ, to everyone? All the time? May the Lord have mercy on me and help me to be ever more transparent.

More About the Middle Ages

2011-01-04T14:13:00.000-05:00

I've updated the page on where we are in our Middle Ages Study. Its a work in progress and I hope I can add more links of resources and materials we're actually using. Mostly because I want to keep a good record of all this so I don't have to reinvent the wheel in a few years with my next crop of students.

New Year's Daybook

2011-01-03T09:34:00.000-05:00

Right now...kids are getting dressed, breakfast cleaned up. We woke a little late this morning. One teen has yet to emerge. (Ah, here she is.)

In a little while...school, doctor, school, ballet. In that order.

This week...Celebrating the Epiphany with the sleepover at Abuela's house. My children refuse to celebrate it on the Sunday. Epiphany is on the 6th and that is that. This morning Elizabeth linked over to this and I think it makes a whole bunch of sense. I think it also marks the anniversary of my baptism. Basketball, Tae Kwon Do and 1 ballet class start up again. Sigh.

I am praying for...mothers who have to say goodbye to children.

I am thankful for...babies. My little babies and my teens and everyone in between. Sweet nephews and nieces. Dear friends' children I've grown to love.

Living the Liturgy...Lots this week, wow! Our focus will be on the Epiphany/Theophany of Our Lord. A favorite feast in our family, always marked with a big celebration at my parents. Hard to believe the Christmas season is coming to a close. It flew by this year. Well, technically don't I really have to Candlemas to take the tree down?

On the Kindle...One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are. And lots of other good stuff. Free stuff. Lots and lots of great free stuff for the Kindle.

In the schoolroom...So pleased I've gotten a good amount laid out and planned for the next few months. I'm not done yet, but I'm bolstered by my progress so far.

Johnny...now he's 2! and if you ask him, he loves to tell you. And he loves to tell you his name...Johnny John Bom, a mish-mash of some of the nicknames we have for him. Did I tell you he's 2? Yeah, every bit of 2, including now daily fits to figure out exactly what he wants for breakfast. How is it little boys come to love superheroes so easily? Johnny is already devoted to Batman and Spiderman.

Please excuse my chocolaty fingers.

My word for 2011...Eucharisteo. Elizabeth explains very well why. The day she posted this, I had a similar post in draft. Ann's book is really a must read to start the new year.

Nearly Christmas Daybook

2010-12-23T09:42:00.000-05:00

Right now...kids are getting breakfast. I woke very early and was able to do the Office and Morning Prayer right from my bed (thank you itouch). Johnny woke up soon after and I snuggled with him. As he pressed his little warm body next to me, all I could think was how he was worth every minute of illness I went through 2 years ago.

In a little while...more holiday baking begins! Lots planned for today. And a dinner with friends in the evening. The crockpot is my friend.

This week...Heh, Christmas! Christmas Eve will have at the early mass (Lilly is singing) and then dinner and celebration at my parent's house. We have SO much to celebrate this year.

On December 11, my father had a mild heart attack. It was a shock and very frightening. But modern medicine is truly a miracle and he was home within a few days and better than ever. There is so much more I could tell you about it all, and maybe I will, but not here.

On December 19 my sister welcomed her third child, Martin Andres. He is adorable (of course). I miss her and her family more than ever.

Christmas morning is breakfast at Dave's cousin's house.

We'll come home and open presents and have a quiet dinner at home.

Sunday we celebrate Johnny's 2nd birthday! I can hardly believe it. We will also possibly be at the beginnings of a blizzard in our area.

There's more fun and celebrations next week too. But I'll tell you about them next week.

I am grateful for...my father, my sister and little Martin, my dear children, friends who support me in prayer, good health for everyone in my family, my husband...oh I could go on and on. I think reading this book, One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are is affecting me in the best way possible. Its available for Kindle instantly, right now. And so is Elizabeth's book, Small Steps for Catholic Moms. I'll tell you a secret. I have a print copy. Its dear to me, but I'm getting the Kindle copy too. Seems to me that a daily devotional is a near perfect format for the Kindle. It always know right where you left off and I can add my own thoughts as notes and almost create myself a little e-journal. Oh, I'm grateful for Elizabeth and Ann too :)

Praying for...this would be nearly identical to the list above.

Living the Liturgy...I love love love how my parish decorates for Christmas. Every year it takes my breath away when I walk in. Lilly will be soloing a verse of Silent Night in Spanish tomorrow night. I'm sure I will be a weepy mess. This is one of my father's favorites. Just typing this right now, I'm overcome with emotion. Deep breath. God is good.

From the kitchen...cookies, cookies, cookies. I always feel spoiled this time of year. I'm not responsible for any major holiday cooking. Even dinner for our friends tonight is a casual affair and they're bringing dessert. So I get to have fun and be creative. Here's the list:

Lemon Orange Anise biscotti and Almond biscotti (both these recipes use canola oil and mostly egg whites, so they are heart healthy)

Meringues and cocoa meringues (again, heart healthy)

Lemon Ricotta cookies (Lilly baked these, oh my, are they ever delicious)

Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls

Chocolate Peppermint Kiss Cookies (I changed up the recipe, made the dough all chocolate and used the candy cane kisses instead)

Decorated sugar cookies

Candied cranberries

Alfajores (a Peruvian cookie, a special request from Dave's cousin)

and depending on how things go today I also feel like making some kind of gingersnap. We'll see.

Around the house...not too bad, if I pretend not to see all the laundry that needs to be done. I feel like I'm in a constant battle to keep "stuff" from accumulating in piles all over the house. In a few days we'll be adding in all new "stuff". Oh well.

Johnny...loves Batman. And basketball. He is all boy. He's learned to say me and mine in the past few weeks. And "I poop".

I'm finding it hard to believe that I'll be updating about another baby in a few months. For now, everything is going great. I'm feeling good, if not suddenly much bigger and everything medically is normal. We like normal.

Happy Feast!

2010-12-08T10:52:00.000-05:00

Chaplet of the Immaculate Conception

Sign of the Cross

V. O God, come to my aid;

R. O Lord make haste to help me in my time of need.

First Group of Beads: I thank thee, O eternal Father, For having by Thy Almighty power preserved Mary, most holy, Thy blessed daughter, from the stain of original sin.

On the large bead pray one Our Father.

On the four small beads pray four Hail Marys, adding each time:

Blessed be the pure, most holy, and Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Second Group of Beads: I thank Thee, O Eternal Son, for having by Thy wisdom preserved Mary, most holy, Thy blessed mother, from the stain of original sin.

On the large bead pray one Our Father.

On the four small beads pray four Hail Marys, adding each time:

Blessed be the pure, most holy, and Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Third Group of Beads: I thank Thee, O Holy Spirit Eternal, for having by Thy love preserved Mary, most holy, Thy Blessed Spouse, from the stain of original sin.

On the large bead pray one Our Father.

On the four small beads pray four Hail Marys, adding each time:

Blessed be the pure, most holy, and Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Conclude with:

Glory be to the Father, to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and will be forever. Amen.

Composed by St. Berchmans, S.J. to obtain the grace never to commit any sin against the virtue of purity.

Thanksgiving

2010-11-24T15:16:00.001-05:00

...is a day early in our house.

Ultrasound shows a very healthy, measuring perfect for dates little...girl! And all is looking very good for me right now.

For whatever reason we were all very sure it was boy, so even in this house with 6 girls, we were actually surprised. Imagine that!

Have a wonderful holiday!

Halfway

2010-11-23T19:03:00.000-05:00

Is it possible I am really halfway through this pregnancy? The calendar and that little wheel thing at the midwife's office say it's true. I still have trouble wrapping my mind around it. I look down and I see a growing bump and I still struggle to embrace the fact that, yes indeed, a new precious life is growing.

When I realized I was pregnant this time, it hit me like a ton of bricks. Just months before I had struggled with an intense longing for another child. Some days I though I was going crazy, it was all I could think about. I struggled because, rationally, another pregnancy was probably not the best thing to long for. After all, many complications meant that I couldn't even carry John to full term and the memory of the fear and anxiety as I realized my liver just could not have me be pregnant a day longer and John would be a preemie were all still very fresh in my mind. Nevertheless, I struggled with letting go of my desire.I needed to live in the present moment where I knew God's grace was sufficient.

I decided to offer up that longing for various intentions and resolved to get my body healthy. I had started Tae Kwon Do already, but threw myself into it with greater vigor. I carefully watched my diet. When summer came I resolved to swim laps every few days. Slowly my body changed. Muscles tightened and toned. I was stronger, healthier and I felt it. I was happy because, just as I hope and work to be as healthy as possible during pregnancy, I knew God was asking me to be just as disciplined without a pregnancy. I knew I was called to be the healthiest mother I could be to my children.

And then there was that positive test. Oh my. My friends, don't get me wrong. I was happy. But it was (and still is to a certain extent) overshadowed by a tremendous amount of fear. The fear has left me feeling somewhat detached from this precious baby and there are days when that fills me with great sadness. It is a struggle. As Advent approached, I thought about the St. Andrew chaplet. I prayed it last year, longing and hoping for another child. God always answers prayers, doesn't He? And this time he saw fit to give me exactly what I asked him for. I know, I KNOW, there is so much for me to learn from that alone. This year I'll pray the chaplet again, but with a far different intention. This year I will pray for His peace to surpass my understanding, the things I know in my head "could go wrong". I will pray with humility and gratitude for His generosity.

Tomorrow I'll see my baby on ultrasound. I will learn if it is a boy or a girl. I'm so very worried there will be something wrong. It's irrational. Not where God wants me at all. I thought perhaps to wait until tomorrow before sharing these thoughts. But it seemed better to share them tonight, as I sit halfway between joy and fear.

Thanksgiving Daybook

2010-11-22T12:03:00.001-05:00

Right now...I'm pretty sure the little girls are playing Alice in Wonderland. Carmen, my struggling reader with a profound love of books, took it upon herself to read the book. She did not want my help. I know there are some words she's not getting and others she guesses at, but based on her retelling to me as she goes, she's completely understanding the story and loves it. Thus, the acting out of Alice in Wonderland (with much embellishment and rewriting) in my basement. I'm counting it as very productive school work this morning.

A little later...I'll head out the door for football and the first round of ballet. A very busy schedule and some things out my control have kept us away for 3 weeks (!) and I realize how much I miss it, or really the excellent company :)

This week...the one week with a lull in the sports schedule. I can hardly believe it. Thanksgiving at my sister's house. It is going to be wonderful. My contributions:

Apple almond yam cakes

Green salad of mixed greens with pecans, dried cranberries (or pomegranate, haven't made up my mind yet) and ricotta salata (because I'm not all that fond of feta, but I wanted a salty bite to the salad) with blueberry pomegranate vinagrette.

And last but not least, cranberry cheesecake pie.

I'm pondering...what to get my children for Christmas. I want to have all the Christmas shopping done in the next 2 weeks (and I do mean ALL), so I need to get down to business, make decisions and start ordering.

In the schoolroom...took some time on Saturday and cleaned up. Looks great.

I am grateful...Maddy was able to celebrate her 16th birthday with her great-grandmother. She'll go back to Florida soon and we'll all miss her so much.

I am praying...for my sister and my cousin, getting ready to greet new babies in December. My daughter's friend who's been coming to Mass with us. Elizabeth. My husband's intense work schedule, in December, of course.

Living the Liturgy...Advent, Advent and more Advent prep. I got a new set of purple lights that will compromise part of our decorations until the tree goes up the week before Christmas. Need to pull out the advent wreath, candles and the nativity sets. I would LOVE to have this, but I don't think that's not going to happen this year. I also would love to add this (and they have a little wood stable to go with it too) to the nativity sets. I love its simplicity. Finishing up how I want to work the Jesse Tree this year, much simplified. Need to pull out the now familiar basket(s) of books. Maddy and I saw the Playmobil advent calendar at Wegmans yesterday (though it was only $20 there) and she begged me to get it. We'll see. And of course all the saints and feasts! I love Advent!

In the kitchen...Um, should have started the beef stew before I sat down to post this.

Johnny...when he says "chinese food" its the cutest thing I've ever heard. Also "football" and "basketball/". The little man seems to love sports.

Light a Candle

2010-11-18T11:07:00.000-05:00

And keep in your prayers little Jedi's family. St. Jedidiah, pray for us!

O God, whose beloved Son did take little children into his arms and bless them: Give us grace, we beseech thee, to entrust this child Jedidiah to thy never-failing care and love, and bring us all to thy heavenly kingdom; through the same thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Foggy Morning Daybook

2010-11-15T10:07:00.000-05:00

Right now...still attempting to wake teens. Found Johnny playing in the bathroom by the toilet when I thought he was downstairs with his sisters. I'm giving up on school this morning and tending to groceries and the house. Amazing how a busy weekend outside the home still takes its toll inside the home.

A little later...grocery store (argh, don't get me wrong, the weekend was lovely, but I do love getting the food shopping done on Saturday or Sunday, with Dave), ballet, maybe soccer. Basketball is coming in two weeks and we'll have a whole new rhythm to contend with.

Later this week...library, car repairs, maybe a soccer practice, co-op, Harry Potter premiere (Dave and the big kids) , Anna gets awarded her purple belt, one more celebration for Maddy (dinner at our favorite Chinese restaurant), and the Feast of Christ the King (one of my favorites).

I'm pondering...How about this? I realized this week that just a few minutes of my time (as in less than 5) applying very simple makeup (a mineral pressed powder, tiny bit of concealer, a finishing powder and a little color on my lips) makes me look, well, better. And I like it. This is a big deal because I hate makeup. Hate. I NEVER wear it. But did I mention I now have a 16 year old? Yeah. (I got this, only the one marked Fair, at Target. Liked it because its talc free. Don't use the blush really, still think blush looks silly on me.

In the schoolroom...Slow and steady, we continue to work.

I am grateful...that my grandmother could be here for Maddy's 16th birthday and the chance meeting up with a friend at brunch yesterday who was actually in the room, helping me labor and deliver when she was born.

Living the Liturgy...the Nativity Fast (Philip's Fast) starts today (or is it technically last night?) for the Orthodox and Eastern Rite Catholics. Latin Rite celebrates Christ the King on Sunday. I'll share a handout sometime this week. I have several children baptized on this feast, so its extra special here. Eastern Rite and Orthodox celebrate the Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple on Sunday. Lots to think, pray and feast on!

In the kitchen...honestly, I'm feeling so blah about cooking these days. I'm trying to satisfy myself with the knowledge that I'm cooking healthy meals every night and making use of planning. Honestly, I would love to get a little creative with more vegetarian fare (I have soooo many cookbooks to choose from) but Dave usually balks when I do what he calls "experimenting". Sigh. If it were up to me and Carmen we'd try all sorts of new and delicious fare. Kay is turning into a bit a foodie as well. Sitting through dinner with her proclaiming my praises is a treat.

Johnny...is working hard to break Aggie's record for being referred to as "the destroyer of worlds". My goodness, this little boy finds all sorts of crazy ways to get himself into trouble.

Sixteen

2010-11-12T09:18:00.000-05:00

I started a Daybook entry on Monday and never finished. A huge part of what I was feeling and thinking about was my oldest child's sixteenth birthday. Today.

Oh how I love the young woman she has become. She is quiet and observant but strongly opinionated. She's quirky with a set of likes and dislikes all her own. Sixteen years ago I could not imagine how quickly time would fly. Its the only bittersweet thing about the day for me. Where did all those years go? Are we really so very close to her moving out into the world?

She was gone last weekend. She went on a trip, on her own, to New York City. A huge thank you again to my brother and sister-in-law for the wonderful time they showed her. She loved every minute of it. At home we missed her. When she got home. Johnny spent the better part of this week following Maddy around, asking her to do things with her, randomly hugging her legs. Oh sweet boy, I know just how you feel, only I remember my little girl following me around, asking me to read to her, hugging my legs.

But really, I am very happy today and forever grateful to God for the gift of this beautiful girl that started this great adventure of mother hood.

All Saints Daybook

2010-11-01T08:35:00.000-04:00

Right now...breakfast is under way for all the little ones...excuse me while I start the coffee...done.

A little later...I must buy food. A combination of busy weekend and feeling ill from a cold means no grocery store happened this weekend. I'm still not feeling great because I'm quite sure I over did it this weekend, but we've stretched as far as we can. I can tell because two of my girls are eating left over sub rolls with creamed honey for breakfast.

Later this week...Not too much. Much is hinging on Carmen making the All-Star team because that will bring a whole new practice schedule. This past weekend was her last regular season game. They won!!!! Their first win. We drop Maddy at my parent's on Thursday and then early Friday morning, she's off to New York. She's so excited. I'm just a little anxious.

I'm pondering...the ridiculous things that are bringing me to tears lately. Seriously, the fresh tarragon I bought got thrown away, Carmen mentioning her wedding, Carmen playing soccer, Kay so crazy happy on her birthday, Maddy helping her little sister trick-or-treat...

In the schoolroom...Still mostly clean, though have you ever noticed if you clear a horizontal surface, it seems to just be begging for stuff to get stacked up on it. I'm looking forward to a much simpler week at home.

I am grateful...for the Youth Group at my parish. Our Youth Minister finds a great balance between cultivating a spiritual life and relationship with God and creating a fun, safe environment for kids to just be themselves. Friday was all about fun. They rented some laser tag equipment and set up the back parking lot with obstacles. There were fire pits, pizza, hot dogs and smores. My girls had a great time.

Living the Liturgy...All Saints and All Souls! How wonderful to be surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses!

I'm praying...for all the faithful departed in my family.

In the kitchen...we'll see what inspires me at the store today. I want to try something new this week.

Johnny...I'm pretty sure he's weaned himself :( His nursing had gotten to once a day and very short. A few nights ago at bedtime he asked to nurse. He did for about thirty seconds, stopped, looked up at me with an odd look and said, "I no nurse mama." And I think that was really it. He hasn't asked since then.

Joy's Birthday

2010-10-30T07:56:00.000-04:00

Well, really it is Kay's birthday, but in our house we always think of pure joy when we say her name. From my desk, right now, there is a glorious sunrise. My kitchen is flooded with a warm orange glow. It seems just right that the sun would put on such a beautiful pink-orange display on Kay's birthday.

I didn't sleep well last night, which is funny because the same was true seven years ago as I paced my hospital room all night for her slow-to-start induction. But then in the morning, there she was. Plump and dark haired. I didn't know yet how much I would love that thick, crazy curly hair, even if she cries a little every time its brushed. My poor Kay, the price she pays for her amazing curls.

But like I said, she is pure joy. A big heart and a quick sense of humor. She brings us laughter every single day. Papa is a little sad today, Kay Kay, he wants you to stay just the way you are forever. I think, even if you "grow up" one day, you'll still be our joyful Kay Kay.

P.S. Thank you all for your sweet congratulations. I wasn't trying to be sneaky (honest!), but perhaps a little understated, but that is a subject for another post, coming soon.

Middle Ages

2010-10-26T11:30:00.000-04:00

If anyone is interested, I'm trying to keep track and share a bit of our Middle Ages study. Click on the link above or here. Bear in mind its work in progress. My book choices might not be yours. For the most part this is what I'm doing with my younger set, ages 7-10. Now and then I'll share what an older kids is using.

Almost November Daybook

2010-10-25T09:19:00.000-04:00

Right now...little ones are finishing breakfast. We tend to start late in the mornings...too late for my taste. It means the big kids end up with a bunch of work in the afternoon. They grumble and complain. But they won't wake up quickly and get through breakfast and morning chores efficiently, no matter how hard I I try...until they "get it" I guess they'll keep working through the afternoon.

A little later...The Monday school routine might be a bit simpler than usual. We're going to have a special guest this week and that means deep cleaning the main floor. Looks like that school room is finally really getting cleaned. Then ballet, football, more ballet and then soccer. Somewhere in there I will get chili in the crockpot.

Later this week...On Wednesday, Abuelita (my grandmother) and my parents are coming over for lunch. We have a yummy soup and sandwich menu and pretty fall table to decorate. We can't wait. Thursday I see the doctor. Friday I'm taking the little kids to IHOP for free funny face pancakes while Kay is out for her birthday lunch with her grandparents. Saturday we have a soccer game, bouncy fun for a cousin's birthday and Carmen has another All-Star tryout. Sunday is Halloween (and I do not have single costume ready). And all the usual stuff this week.

I'm pondering...the value of silence. Our study of monks and monasteries and St. Benedict's Rule have me thinking generally and specifically about what I want the daily interactions in my home to look and sound like.

I yell too much, way too much.

How can I bring those monastery bells that frame the day in prayer into my home in a real way? I know I have all the "tools" I need in the Liturgy of the Hours, but how do I make them useful for my children? Its something I've been thinking about for a long time now. On Friday we joined the monks at Holy Cross Abbey for mid-day prayer. Their pace was slow and measured. They chanted. Time seemed to stand still. And yet, when it was all said and done, I was surprised to see it took less than 25 minutes.

Also, I'm thinking of changing this blog's name. Come next spring it will be really misnamed.

In the schoolroom...it will be clean by Wednesday! And generally, school is progressing nicely. I am ever so grateful for the counsel and sharing of ideas with a friend.

I am grateful...for lunch and shopping at Wegman's with Maddy. She's about to turn 16 and I'm not sure I can even find the words to express what a joy it is to be her mother.

...my grandmother.

...my husband.

Living the Liturgy...we're preparing for the Feast of All Saints.

I'm praying...for Uncle Tom.

...for 2 athletes to recover from injuries.

...for Carmen. She tried out for the All-Star team on Saturday. She's just turned 10, playing in a U12 Division. She's tiny and passionate. I know how badly she wants to make the team.

In the kitchen...simple meals, fall favorites.

Johnny...fascinated by skateboards. He picks up anything that might resemble a skateboard, plunks it down and the floor and "jumps" up on it. Then he tries some tricks. Cute but a little scary.

Pumpkin Festival Daybook

2010-10-18T12:42:00.000-04:00

Right now...girls playing a game on the floor next to me, kids finishing breakfast, and I don't hear or see the teens at all which means they may have vanished to their caves to steal some more sleep.

In a little while...after the kitchen is cleaned up and some laundry is started, we'll start some schoolwork. I'm hoping to get at least some good reading, Bible Study and math truly incorporated into our busy Mondays.

This week...I'm not really sure, haven't even looked at my calendar. Oh, I know, we're headed out to the monastery in Berryville on Friday. Hoping for a colorful drive. Looking forward to praying with the monks. And I'm tickled how this little outing sort of fits into the Middle Ages studies we are beginning, especially since this week we'll be focusing on St. Benedict.

I'm pondering...a thread on Charlotte Mason in a large family over at Kind Conversation. I posted rather quickly the other day and I really want to go back and finish my thoughts.

In the schoolroom...still messy. Sigh. Very excited about the Middle Ages studies. Lots of lovely books to read. And everyone, except one child will be studying the same thing. Yay!

I am grateful...for the perfect fall weather on Saturday. We spent the day at a local farm's fall festival. My sister's family was here from Georgia. What a treat to see Anna and Kay with their little cousin Antonio between them, holding hands, flying down a huge slide, squealing with delight. We love all the cousins so much. We'll miss the Stells. It is hard to say goodbye.

Living the Liturgy...Great homily yesterday, though as usual, I only caught bits and pieces. Father tied the the Old and New Testament reading by showing us that Christ replaces Moses, who arms are then held up by the wood of the cross. And of course, the cross gains us the ultimate victory over sin and death.

I'm praying...for Uncle Tom.

In the kitchen...Pumpkin anything and everything!

Johnny...Just as I was worried he wasn't talking enough, he's had a little language explosion over the past few weeks. Suddenly my little man can say and tries to say so many words. Yesterday, as I got him ready for church I told him we needed to find his shoes. "Oosh" he says and happily signs. So cute!

Picture Thought...Hold that thought, need to get the pictures from Saturday off Maddy's camera.

Sibling Revelry

2010-10-15T20:14:00.000-04:00

One of the greatest gifts my parents have ever given is my siblings. I cannot imagine my life without them. They are all so different from one another. That uniqueness is what blesses me every day. I would do anything for them. The hardest things is to watch them in pain or struggling. Whether its my youngest sister suffering through a great sorrow a few years ago, my other sister working so hard to be the most competent professional in her field and still a super involved amazing mother, or my brother now working so hard to one day bless the world with his talent in the medical profession. I always wish there was a way I could take away the struggle, the pain, even if it means taking it on myself.

Now my mother-in-law's brother is struggling with serious illness. They are twins. She is right by his side. She loves him intensely, and I know would gladly take on his suffering. I understand completely.

Won't you please join me in praying for him? I know Victoria would treasure any little prayer offered up for her dear brother Tom.

Our Lady of the Rosary

2010-10-06T11:23:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow is the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary. I have been reading about it and it seems it is also know as the Feast of Our Lady of Victory. If you want to read about this feast, read here.

I think its interesting that the Orthodox celebrate a similar Marian feast on October 1 called The Feast of the Holy Skepi of the Theotokos. It also celebrates the special love and protection Our Lady has for all her children. There is a beautiful icon that usually shows the Holy Theotokos holding out her veil to cover and protect. So many times have I prayed for friends, asking Our Lady to intercede and pray she wraps them in her mantle and keep them safe.

Kontakion in the Plagal of the Fourth Tone

Let us the faithful hasten to the Theotokos now and venerate her sacred veil, as we chant unto her, singing hymns to praise and honour her, as is fitting; for she shelt'reth with her shelter and all her faithful flock and preserveth them unharmed from all calamities, as they cry to her: Rejoice, Protection most radiant.

Daybook: Finally Feels Like Fall (And It Won't Stop Raining)

2010-10-04T10:31:00.001-04:00

Right now...the calm before the storm. Or rather, the quiet before we tear into school for a bit. I should have spent some time last night planning, but I didn't.

In a little while...ballet. I'm thinking soccer will be canceled...again. Poor Carmen. This rain is messing with her season.

Later this week...more of the usual stuff. I'm trying to find a way to get Maddy to a new teen girls' group at Church on Wednesday. It will be tricky, but I think it would so good for her. Praying the driving solution will be simple. Saturday we'll celebrate my niece's birthday. Kay will spend the night with her grandparents and go see a production of Rumpelstiltskin on Sunday.

I'm thinking...I really want a Kindle. Really. Really.

I'm reading...This is where I tell myself as soon as I get a Kindle, I'll be reading again like crazy. Right? Right?

I'm pondering...I've been thinking quite a bit about what it means to be a true Catholic witness in our country. Yes I am a geek, but this political season has me really considering how I express and live my political views, how those views are formed, in light of my faith. I've always firmly believed that I am called to witness to Truth, but what I'm totally rethinking is the how. I don't want to be "right". Opinions are one thing. But changing someone's heart is quite another, and much of it is in the hands of Christ. Knowing that is true, how effective can one really be with a bullhorn? Isn't the real power hidden, in quiet prayer and fasting?

In the schoolroom...a mess. The space that is. Sigh. I need more hours in the day. In the next 2 weeks every child in this house will shift into their Middle Ages study (except Lilly, isn't there always a kink in the plan?). Its just easier and I will feel less like my brain is going in 6 different directions. But it means I'm reworking some plans. The netbook is my friend.

I am grateful...my grandmother has come up from Florida for an extended visit. God bless my mom and dad because she does need more care and attention these days and they have taken the responsibility on with their usual grace and generosity. My grandmother is so funny and witty. And she loves me. Lots. I can't wait to soak up this time with her.

Living the Liturgy...Today is St. Francis. (And a darling girl's birthday, Happy Birthday Karoline!). At Mass yesterday I had the opportunity to be blessed with a relic of St. Gianna Molla. It was one of her gloves. It was amazing to take it in my hand, knowing how she lived her life and gave it up for her child. Very special.

I'm praying...Many intentions, lots of moms and babies, my brother working very hard, my poor sister's stubborn ear infection, my other sister and her dear family.

In the kitchen...Simple recipes, family favorites, apple crisp, apple pie, pumpkin bread...I love fall.

Picture thought...

Aggie does her math work.

Now You're Four!

2010-09-29T08:33:00.000-04:00

We love you're funny little stories and how you sit down to "read" the Magic School Bus books. We love your creative names for things and how you kiss Johnny's feet goodnight. We love how your good at ballet and basketball and soccer and tae kwon do, just like all your sisters and brother. We love how sometimes you just cuddle up, look up and smile.

Happy Birthday Aggie!

What I Want To Do

2010-09-22T17:14:00.000-04:00

...is share the 3 week unit I've created for our study of Japan. We're working our way through Asia this fall, Serendipity style. (I had hoped to move away from geography with the little girls, just for some variety. I hoped to plug them into the Middle Ages studies the older kids are moving into to make my life easier...but, the younger girls LOVE these geography studies, so Asia it is for now.) I've used those lists for inspiration and tweaked here and there based on the books at the library. I was able to pull together all the resources without spending a single penny. I filled out the outline at Serendipity and wrote up specific notebook pages and activities to go along with our reading. I really want to share it with you, really I do, but we have a soccer scrimmage in less than an hour. And then I get another child to choir practice as quick as I can. And then I run into the door and try to get dinner on the table as quick as I can...well, you get the picture.

I'll try, I promise, because I do want to share it with you. But right now, I must fly or there will be no good parking left at the fields.

Daybook

2010-09-13T16:37:00.000-04:00

Right now...

I'm wondering how I'm going to get the veggies put away from the grocery store run with my very asleep baby boy in my arms. At least I figured out how to type.

In a little while...

put the veggies away ;), prep a few things for dinner, get Carmen to soccer.

This week...

The usual routine. Its busy, but I'm feeling peaceful about it. I worked hard to get a good routine for school in place and its paying off. I've also worked to have good spaces of time in the mornings and we are making the most of it.The funny thing too is that God took care in very simple ways of some of my concerns and stress. You get what you pray for.

Sam and Carmen get to see Cirque du Soleil on Thursday.

I am grateful...

~my sweet baby sleeping on my chest.

~a stocked pantry and fridge.

~a hard working, generous and loving husband.

~a good public library system.

~a friend who has put together a lovely, fun, gentle preschool for Aggie once a week. Its nearly perfect and I feel so blessed by her creativity and generosity.

~Fall!

I am reading...

Nothing at the moment. Sigh. I do love reading, but the past few years have trouble settling on anything. There are many things I've really enjoyed here and there, but I so wish I could be consistent.

I am creating...

hmmmm...does continually tweaking our lessons each week count?

From the schoolroom...

The actual space is a bit um, messy. This means I'm not really using it to its maximum capabilities. This is frustrating because I put a table in there earlier in the summer precisely to give everyone more space to work in. That said, I'm so pleased with our curriculum right now. So many wonderful living books! Good books and narration, a bit of math everyday, and built in time for creativity and nature. So simple.

Living the Liturgy...

Exaltation of the Holy Cross (14)

Our Lady of Sorrows (15)

No big plans, just hope to quietly contemplate.

I am praying...

My brother and his wife as they travel Taiwan.

For Patrick Foss, his adventures in Spain, and his family who misses him.

All grieving mothers, whatever their grief may be.

Around the house...

The dreaded switch to fall/winter clothes. Ugh. Dave's home this week. Maybe he'll help?

Laundry (you're shocked aren't you?)

In the kitchen...

If all goes to plan,

~Monday: Oven roasted salmon, rice, broccoli

~Tuesday: Green Chicken Curry (a new recipe from Aarti Party on Food Network, looks so good, and we've learned that as a general rule, we like Indian food in our family. Yay! I love Indian food.), cucumbers, yogurt sauce, rice and a little roti.

~Wednesday: Slow cooker Beef Minestrone (from Wegman's magazine), bread, salad

~Thursday: Zucchini and Fried Pepper Casserole (also Wegman's) with hot Italian sausage on the side.

~Friday: Pasta, vegetable- maybe roasted butternut squash, maybe tossed in the sauce...still thinking about it.

~Saturday: Tacos

~Sunday: Chicken- not sure how yet, potatoes, vegetable

Johnny...

Oh, he's so cute but growing fiercely independent, no help on the stairs please, I'll go up and down by myself like a big kid, don't hold my hand in the street, I'll walk wherever I please, Don't cut my food up please, I want it look just like yours on my plate, where's the knife so I can cut it, No highchair, I'm a big boy now....except, of course, at night, when his preferred place to sleep is as close to my body as he can reasonably get.

Must Read

2010-09-09T17:36:00.000-04:00

My heart is bursting, these words and pictures from Ann...I can't describe it, how utterly beautiful and full of grace. Don't miss it.

Joyous Feast!

2010-09-08T08:10:00.000-04:00


Icons courtesy of www.eikonografos.com used with permission

Apolytikion in the Fourth Tone

Your birth, O Theotokos, brought joy to the whole world, for from you dawned the sun of righteousness, Christ our God. Freeing us from the curse, He gave us His blessings. Abolishing death, He granted us eternal life.

Today we also remember Tom VanderWoude and the family that misses him in our prayers.

Remembering Bryce

2010-09-01T08:45:00.000-04:00

As I woke up this morning I could not help but ponder what a brave grace-filled woman Colleen is. Today she will wake up and face a new day, just as she has every day this long year. She has shared the moments of grace and moments of pain. Every word she has shared has challenged me and taught me about my own faith in God and His plans for my life.

Here she shares more of herself with us and Danielle. Do listen. I know you'll be blessed.

Please remember Colleen, her husband and Bryce's band of brothers in your prayers today.

Savior

2010-08-24T16:27:00.000-04:00

Image from Conciliar Press

Sunday I didn't so much attend Mass as I babysat some very active little ones. I was physically exhausted and feeling spiritually drained. In that moment of weakness, I was angry. I could spill so many words telling you just what had me feeling so angry, all my justifications and reasoning. But in an instant, a flash of grace, He gave me the one word I needed. The choir was singing. It caught my attention. Savior. I felt the tension in my body, the anxiety in my mind give way a little bit. Savior. My Savior does not wait for me to drag myself out of the pit. No. He came down, to be like me, to know that weariness in the shoulders and ache in the legs of a long day. Savior. He reaches down to me, pulls me up and in many ways takes my place in the darkness. He doesn't wait for me to have it all together. He rushes to me now...and saves. Savior.

You Have to be Home to Home School

2010-08-19T12:57:00.000-04:00

Yes, radical thought. And obvious.

This post is not to question or debate the merit of anyone's involvement in activities outside the home. Each family will decide for themselves what they choose to participate in.

Life is messy and busy. The reality is I have 8 children. Even if 6 of them are only involved in just 1 activity each, the out-of-the-house scheduling and driving quickly gets absolutely crazy.

What I'm pondering for this coming year is how to keep "home" at the heart of everything we do. How do I keep our home a safe, peaceful place rather than a mere bus station we dump things in and grab stuff out of between activities. The foundation I'm trying to lay includes these points so far:

Prayer must be at heart of the "work" we do at home.
If we have predictable, workable routines in place for the times we are home (such as meals, laundry and chores), plugging ourselves in and out of them is that much easier.
The less "stuff" we have, the better. This includes just about everything. Less clothes, but quality easy pieces easy to put together means less laundry. Simple school plans with less, but quality books to absorb means less piles to move around. Simple, but complete nutritious meals are easier to plan, shop for and prepare. For me, this means letting go of my inner foodie in some regards.
There must be some "non-negotiable" chunks of time in the week that are solely devoted to being at home. Even if it is divided into particular hours of the day spread throughout the week. We all need to rely on these times. If anything, when we all work together at learning during those times we can feel successful.
My planner and calendar are my best friends.
Be ready to say no.
Recognize when we might be approaching overload, especially for my little ones, unable to articulate clearly when they are feeling stress. Get ahead of the burnout and make changes if needed instead of putting my head down and just trying to struggle through it.
Rely on friends. Don't be afraid to ask for and accept help. Pray for each other. Listen to each other.

I'll probably have some more things to add, but I'll just share those for now.

Deliver Our Souls from Death!

2010-08-15T09:23:00.001-04:00

In giving birth, you preserved your virginity!
In falling asleep you did not forsake the world, O Theotokos!
You were translated to life, O Mother of Life,
And by your prayers you deliver our souls from death!

(Troparion, Tone 1)

I found the following painting by Giotto painted from around 1330. The children and I were making and using egg tempera in the style he might have used. I was delighted to find this example of his work this week in advance of the feast today. It was fascinating for me to see this Italian painter's depiction of the "Entombment of Mary" bearing such a striking resemblance to the icon of the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotkos.

Whether you call it the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary or the Dormition of the Holy Theotokos, I wish you a joyous feast!

Transfigured

2010-08-09T00:37:00.000-04:00

Friday was the Feast of the Transfiguration, one of my favorites. I think because many years ago I went to confession on or very near the feast and when the priest was praying for me just before absolution, he spoke some beautiful words to me that have stayed in my heart. I couldn't quote them exactly if I wanted to. It is enough that I feel their impact often.
In any case, today as I sat at Mass, trying hard to focus while gently shushing my chatty three year old, I looked up and noticed how the shadows were falling above the altar. We have a beautiful dark wood, impressive baldachin over the tabernacle. You can see it in the slideshow here. As I glanced up tonight, the triangles were casting a shadow on the gold wall behind the altar and instantly I thought of Our Lord transfigured on the mountain. Superimposed on this was the shadow of the crucifix. The glory and the suffering. As I took it all in I realized that this was indeed the tent Peter longed to build. There it was, over mystery of the Eucharist hidden in the tabernacle, under the appearance of simple bread. And yet glorious, transfigured by Christ's suffering.

Joyous Feast!

2010-08-06T07:32:00.000-04:00

You were transfigured upon the mount, O Christ our God, and Your disciples, in so far as they could bear, beheld Your glory. Thus, when they see You crucified, they may understand Your voluntary passion, and proclaim to the world that You are truly the effulgence of the Father.

Hidden With Christ

2010-08-01T20:31:00.003-04:00

Today, the Eastern Church celebrates the Procession of the Wood of the Life-giving Cross.

Today the Cross of the Lord is carried forth, and the faithful welcome it with love. They receive healing of soul and body, and of every weakness. Come! Let us venerate the Cross with fear and joy! With fear, because in our sin we are unworthy. With joy, because upon it Christ the Lord was - in His great mercy - crucified and granted salvation to the world. (from Matins)

This is from today's second reading in the Latin Rite.

Brothers and sisters:
If you were raised with Christ, seek what is above,
where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.
Think of what is above, not of what is on earth.
For you have died,
and your life is hidden with Christ in God.
When Christ your life appears,
then you too will appear with him in glory.

Both have blessed me today. I just felt I should share.

Happy Feast!

2010-07-26T08:15:00.000-04:00

He Turned and Walked Away

2010-07-17T12:00:00.002-04:00

He's going on a fishing trip with his aunt and uncle. He needs to pack. I'm surprised when he outright refuses to let me do this for him. He's not a little boy anymore. He's twelve. There are still bits of boy in him even as the man struggles to find his voice, his way in the world. I worry for him, this brother in a house chock full of sisters. I want to leave the space for the boy to move around, express himself, for the man to grow.

I feel this space keenly at Mass, as he vests in garments reserved for men, sits apart from us, in the company of men and boys. I miss him, but I am grateful that he has that sacred space. I pray each week that he hears the voice of his heavenly Father, of his brother, Our Lord Jesus and the his heart be stirred by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. I pray he holds fast to the grace God has for him at every moment.

He comes in my room. He has a question about what to pack. I answer. He turns and walks away. I look just in time to see him framed in the doorway of his room. I catch my breath as I suddenly realize how tall he's gotten. His shoulders are broader. The silhouette of a young man. My son, not a little boy any longer. My throat tightens as I miss the little boy. Even as I smile, looking forward to getting to know this young man.

Carmen's Day

2010-07-16T14:02:00.001-04:00

Have I ever told you about how Carmen got her name?

When I learned I was pregnant with her, I just knew it was time to find some skilled, caring midwives for my care and delivery. I found them. These women are such a blessing. At the time, we did not have health insurance. They worked with us, settled on a set fee (incredibly fair!) and a realistic payment plan. They did everything they could to help us save money by reducing unneeded tests and calling labs ahead of my arrival to get us a discount. They cared for all of me in a way I had never experienced.

My due date came and went and we had settled on an induction date. It was to be Tuesday July 18 if she (or he, we didn't know) did not arrive sooner. Sunday afternoon, July 16, the feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, my midwife called me. She was preparing for the coming week and noticed I was scheduled for Tuesday, when none of the midwives were scheduled to be on duty (they worked with and O.B. at the time). She knew I had a very strong preference for a midwife so would I mind coming in today. A Sunday? This dear woman was willing to give her time on a weekend. She also knew I was absolutely terrified of pitocin and had some ideas for how we could make this a "natural" induction.

And so, we went to the hospital and indeed had a successful, beautiful all natural birth. It was amazing and I still get weepy when I remember Wendy asking me to reach down and help deliver my baby. We had picked the name Elena for a girl and even told Wendy that evening that it was our new baby girl's name. As I spent that first magic night in the hospital with her, Elena didn't seem the right name. I pondered how Our Lord had cared for us and provided. I pondered the marvelous and skilled hands of my midwife. I pondered the special blessing of being born on such a wonderful feast.

The next day I told Dave she needed a different name. Something to honor Our Lady and her care for us. He agreed. Elena became Carmen Elena. (In Spanish, Our Lady of Mount Carmel is La Virgen del Carmen.) I should also mention, my mother had been harboring the same sentiments.

Her name is significant for me in so many ways. First of course, I can't imagine looking into her deep brown eyes and calling her by any other name. Second, my own deep attachment to Carmelite spirituality. And third, more recently, the connection with the Holy Prophet Elias and Eastern Catholic spirituality.

But even greater than all this is how much Carmen teaches me daily about devotion and trust in her heavenly Father. This girl prays. She prays with faith. For her First Communion she asked Jesus to send her a baby brother. John is the answer to that prayer. She longs to follow Jesus, do His will always. Her piety is simple, humble and deep.

Happy Birthday to my Carmen!

On the Memorial of St. Bonaventure

2010-07-15T18:36:00.001-04:00

From the Office of Readings for today:

Christ is both the way and the door. Christ is the staircase and the vehicle, like the throne of mercy over the Ark of the Covenant, and the mystery hidden from the ages. A man should turn his full attention to this throne of mercy, and should gaze at him hanging on the cross, full of faith, hope and charity, devoted, full of wonder and joy, marked by gratitude, and open to praise and jubilation. Then such a man will make with Christ a pasch, that is, a passing-over. Through the branches of the cross he will pass over the Red Sea, leaving Egypt and entering the desert. There he will taste the hidden manna, and rest with Christ in the sepulchre, as if he were dead to things outside. He will experience, as much as is possible for one who is still living, what was promised to the thief who hung beside Christ: Today you will be with me in paradise.

For this passover to be perfect, we must suspend all the operations of the mind and we must transform the peak of our affections, directing them to God alone. This is a sacred mystical experience. It cannot be comprehended by anyone unless he surrenders himself to it; nor can he surrender himself to it unless he longs for it; nor can he long for it unless the Holy Spirit, whom Christ sent into the world, should come and inflame his innermost soul. Hence the Apostle says that this mystical wisdom is revealed by the Holy Spirit.
If you ask how such things can occur, seek the answer in God’s grace, not in doctrine; in the longing of the will, not in the understanding; in the sighs of prayer, not in research; seek the bridegroom not the teacher; God and not man; darkness not daylight; and look not to the light but rather to the raging fire that carries the soul to God with intense fervour and glowing love. The fir is God, and the furnace is in Jerusalem, fired by Christ in the ardour of his loving passion. Only he understood this who said: My soul chose hanging and my bones death. Anyone who cherishes this kind of death can see God, for it is certainly true that: No man can look upon me and live.

Let us die, then, and enter into the darkness, silencing our anxieties, our passions and all the fantasies of our imagination. Let us pass over with the crucified Christ from this world to the Father, so that, when the Father has shown himself to us, we can say with Philip: It is enough. We may hear with Paul: My grace is sufficient for you; and we can rejoice with David, saying: My flesh and my heart fail me, but God is the strength of my heart and my heritage for ever. Blessed be the Lord for ever, and let all the people say: Amen. Amen!

Ole Ole Ole!!!

2010-07-11T19:14:00.000-04:00

One month and 64 games later, this glorious moment for Spain.

Viva España!!!!

Picture courtesy of The Guardian

That Lady with All the Kids

2010-07-03T08:32:00.000-04:00

That's what I've heard people say at the pool. Its okay.

In fact, the other day, as I sat with Johnny on the steps leading into the shallow end, and Aggie flitted around me, splashing, suddenly, all my kids were down in the shallow end, playing together. I sat there for a moment, taking it all in. Every one of my children, nearly within arms reach, laughing, playing, enjoying the water and each other's company. Perfect.

As my children grow older, I know these moments will be harder to come by. So for now, this summer, I am quite content to be the lady with all the kids, together.

Feast of Saints Peter and Paul

2010-06-29T13:14:00.000-04:00

(A wonderful reflection can be found here.)

2010-06-20T08:17:00.000-04:00

Thank you for all your love and hard work.

I love you Papi!

10 Reasons Why I Love Soccer

2010-06-19T10:01:00.000-04:00

1. Mexico beat France.

2. England had a scoreless draw.

3. Watching your team come back from being down 2 goals is the most thrilling thing ever.

4. A well played game of soccer is poetry in motion.

5. Because my Carmen loves it so.

6. No other sport can bring the whole world together.

7. World Cup Cuisine :)

8. The fact that South Africa is hosting the World Cup this year is a testament to man's capacity for change and forgiveness.

9. Best crazy, superstitious soccer fan moment ever:

Yesterday at my parent's house, when the U.S. scored their second goal, at the moment it happened, my father was opening the basement door for Kay and holding John. He missed seeing the actual goal. When the U.S. set up for their penalty kick very near the end of the match, we decided to recreate the same circumstances. Abuelo ran to the door with John in his arms and Kay waited outside. At the moment the ball was kicked, we yelled to Abuelo, "Open the door!" And then....WE SCORED!!! (Sadly, for reasons yet to be fully explained, there was a foul called and the U.S. was robbed of a win.) Even so, the thrill and joy of that moment as Kay proclaimed, "I scored a goal!!!!" was magic.

10. Yesterday at my parent's house was pure grace. Both my sisters (though we missed you, Carlos and Jenn and so happy we'll all be together on Sunday), all the cousins, my parents, a bountiful shared lunch, exciting soccer, jumping up and down and howling "GOOOOAAAALLLLL" for our team. Oh my, God is so generous...and then just looking ahead to Sunday when we will celebrate my parent's 40 years of a marriage full of love and joy and the love and dedication of fathers...oh how grace abounds!

Word Cup Cuisine: Spain

2010-06-17T09:49:00.000-04:00

While I would rather not talk about "that" game, my planned meal last night to celebrate the World Cup was Spanish.

First was Gazpacho, using a recipe from Chef Jose Andres. This is so simple, luscious and refreshing. What a perfect part of any summer meal. Truth be told, I used the dry sherry I bought from Safeway and regular red wine vinegar (because Safeway does not carry sherry vinegar, I'll have to track it down at Wegman's). So so good. Guess who loved it? As in picking up the bowl and slurping it down? Johnny.

I also prepared roast pork tenderloin "Spanish style". This is my own creation, not by any means authentic of anything. I rub the tenderloins with salt, pepper, pimenton (smoked paprika) and garlic powder. They get seared in a pan with olive oil and then finished in the oven. Right before they go in the oven I throw in some sliced onions all around and on top of the tenderloins. When they come out of the oven, the onion are very sweet and caramelized and taste delicious over the pork along with the pan juices. (McCormick makes a smoked paprika. I've used it in the past. Its not bad and readily available in most grocery stores.)

And yellow rice, which is just regular rice to which I add sazon goya with azafran (saffron) to the water and rice before it starts cooking.

World Cup Cuisine

2010-06-14T10:33:00.000-04:00

My sister Julia and I seem to have shared the same thought. Of course, we are total foodies and had to find a way to combine that with the joy and frenzy of Word Cup Soccer. Have I mentioned Carmen's goal of watching every.single.game? Yeah, her siblings, not quite as fond of soccer as she is are not as thrilled. I'm watching as much as I can with her. The Germans blew me away yesterday. What an incrediby talented and disciplined team.

Anyway, back to the food. To celebrate this truly global sporting event, my sister and I are going to plan our menus in honor of some of the different teams playing each day. This morning, since I couldn't make Danish, I made a coffee cake and declared that close enough. I have not planned out our meals yet, but I'll be back here to post as soon as I have. In the meantime, check out the delicious selection my sister has planned.

We can't wait for the weekend! Very special time for our family.

Easy Drawing Lessons

2010-06-03T15:17:00.001-04:00

I am a big fan of quality children's literature. The abundance of well written and beautifully illustrated books is a great blessing. Beyond just the chance for exposure to good writing, the past few months have shown what a remarkable tool they can be for teaching children to draw. My children love to draw and color anyway, but I can imagine this can be helpful for reluctant artists as well.

How do we do it?

Simple. We read a book together and then, very often, the girls will draw an illustration from the book. At first it bothered me that they often chose to copy an entire illustration from a book. But the past few months have shown me the benefits. Given the variety of styles and mediums used, the girls have practiced drawing in several different styles and motifs. They have experimented with color and design. Since most of our picture books have focused on our world studies, they have had broad exposure to cultural differences and styles.

Here is some samples of their work.

By Carmen

By Anna

By Kay

Here are some books that might be helpful.

Come Holy Spirit!

2010-05-23T09:43:00.000-04:00

Graces Big and Small

2010-05-16T08:24:00.001-04:00

When we humbly make ourselves available to every grace Our Lord wants to bless us with, even the midst of a full life, very quickly we can see how generous He can be. Today I'm pondering...

The grace of the Holy Eucharist and the simple joy and faith children teach us when they receive Him for the first time.

Good and holy priests.

A three year old eager to help mama empty the dishwasher.

A nine year old eager to learn how to wash the dishes and do her very best at it.

Sitting on a small sofa with four children and watching a movie.

Teen daughter's joy and excitement about their beach vacation with their grandparents.

My sweet baby boy's laughter.

A hard working husband, traveling far away this week, all in the service of his family.

Learning and stretching in prayer and faith, following the lead of the Holy Spirit, and a dear friend to share the journey.

Did you know the virtue for May in Small Steps is grace? I had purchased the wood letters for grace way back in February thinking about all the sacraments we would be celebrating. How serendipitous! Reading the selection for each day is proving to be a wonderful way to frame my day and focus my prayer and service to those around me.

Alter Christus

2010-05-09T10:41:00.000-04:00

Friday was a day of extremes.

The start of the day saw us at a neighborhood park, moms sitting and chatting as children played in the most perfect weather. I love watching these kids play. Some of them have been friends for close to 6 years. They know and love each other very much. I watched my teens take the hand of these little ones, pushing them in swings and helping them climb steps. I watched my son smile as they signed his big blue cast. These dear ones are not their siblings, but my big kids love them and delight in their company as if they were.

In this beautiful setting came sad news. A much loved priest at our parish, who had been battling illness, suffering silently since November had passed away after praying his morning rosary. All us moms loved this gentle priest. And for the children he was as huggable and kind as a grandfather. Perhaps it is because Fr. Jack had that rare privilege of being called to two vocations. First as a husband and father, and much later, after his wife passed away and his children had grown, to the priesthood.

He was deeply devoted to Divine Mercy. And he was mercy. When he prayed the words of consecration, it was with such passion and love, it brings tears to my eyes to think of it. His homilies were equally as passionate. And love. So full of love! And mercy. Mind you, they could be fiery too. He never shied away from things that might make us fidget nervously. But always with such love. I don't think this man new what it was to judge another person. Ever.

My children deeply loved all these things about him. Sam frequently served Mass with him. Carmen was just waiting for him to get all better so she could sit and listen to his wonderful homilies again. What they loved about Fr. Jack had everything to with the priest he was. The priest he is. For even now, as he enters into eternity, he is a priest. And as remarkable as his work was here on earth, I have no doubt our Lord has even more remarkable work for him in Heaven. I am so grateful that my children had the opportunity to love this priest, that his priestly work drew them closer to Christ and deeper into the heart of the Church. I will miss him very much.

Small Steps Are All It Takes

2010-05-04T11:39:00.001-04:00

My dear friend Elizabeth and online friend Danielle Bean have shared a beautiful new book with us. I'd tell you specifics about what's in it, but I'm waiting to get my signed copy :) But I can tell you that I know my friend, and that she is a woman of prayer. I am looking forward to her and Danielle's gentle, inspiring and simple acts of prayer to help me grow in my vocation.

If you're local in Northern Virginia, you've got plenty of time to get it for Mother's Day. Come visit with Elizabeth on Saturday at the Catholic Shop in Chantilly.

Confirmation Daybook

2010-04-25T21:02:00.000-04:00

Right now...All my children are laughing and joking in the kitchen. Dinner is over and its the lull before clean up. It is so good to here Sam laughing heartily. Johnny is enjoying his peanut butter cookie immensely and will require his second bath of the day. His favorite dinner seems to be Chicken Tikka. I love watching him eat it up and ask for more.

A little later...I'm doing some more lesson planning. I'm feeling inspired and creative and called to create some plans to bring a quieter, simpler way to help my children contemplate the liturgical year. I'm also looking ahead and trying to map out the next few months.

This week...The usual dance, with a new step thrown in. Wednesday Sam gets another X-ray, which will hopefully show bones still in their proper place. If so, its on to the fiberglass cast over his splint. If not, well, its a whole new set of plans.

And Confirmation for my big girls next Sunday. I love this sacrament! I'm praying hard for them and so thankful for the faith-filled young women they've become.

Living the Liturgy...All this planning, I feel like I'm swimming in the rhythms of the Church. Its actually quite nice. Confirmation! And believe it or not, two weeks late Anna makes her First Communion. There are a few more things I want to touch on with her. Did I mention my niece is getting married at the end of May? Yeah, lots of Sacraments. Lots of family. Busy, but all good.

In the schoolroom...plans. Continue to travel around India with the little girls. Sam will get to work slowly, likely lots of reading and math. The big girls continue moving on with their plans.

In the kitchen...We're in the soccer practice pattern which requires careful planning on Mondays and Wednesdays so that dinner can be prepared by a teen at home, or is ready to eat from the crockpot or oven when we walk through the door. I'm doing pretty well so far.

Its Easter!...About a week ago I was feeling overwhelmed and very out of sorts. This week is better. I'm not looking to for an instant fix, so better is good. But it struck this week that I'm hanging back in the cave. Christ is risen! Anna says Happy Easter! to me every single day. This week I resolved to really live it. He is not in the tomb. I should not be either.

I am praying...for my girls and a tremendous outpouring of the Holy Spirit. For Fr. Jack, a dear priest, who is very ill again. Please join me in praying for him. He is such a gift to our parish.

I am thankful...that I live in a country where my son can get prompt, appropriate medical care. For the knowledge and technology, used for the proper means, to heal and keep us healthy.

Johnny this week...After 4 girls in a row, I am delighting in little boy play. He is all about walking (and trying to run) everywhere, climbing, cars, trucks and of course, balls. He is going to be the class clown as we can already see how he loves to makes us laugh and does all kinds of silly things if he thinks it makes us happy. He still doesn't say mama, but he's learned how to shake his head to say no.

Hard Lessons

2010-04-24T09:59:00.000-04:00

To keep everyone out of suspense, I will let you know right now, Sam broke his arm Thursday afternoon.

It involved a trampoline. It involved a fence. It involved an older sister who decided to jump from the top the fence, over the net around the trampoline, and on to the trampoline. Sam just had to try it too. One funny part of the story is Sam's complete lack of these specific details when relaying how he got hurt to the E.R. docs. In fact, I didn't know the "rest of the story" until we got home and Lilly let all the details be known. My poor son, even in the midst of pain and fear, he still was a complete kid about it all and was afraid of getting in trouble. I think he's got enough trouble, yes?

Sigh.

When it is all said and done, I am comforted by the fact that it was just his arm and that Sam and his sister have learned a very good lesson about the consequences of poor decisions and lack of judgment and common sense.

Oh, lets be clear, we do not own a trampoline. I did not know they were on a trampoline. In fact, the very first poor decision my dear children made was going into someone's back yard without telling me and without a parent being home at the house in question.

My hard lesson? Seeing your child in intense pain is perhaps one of the worst things I will ever experience. Sam didn't cry in the car on the way to the E.R. I did.

Divine Mercy Sunday

2010-04-11T11:24:00.000-04:00

(Image courtesy of The Printery House)

My Heart overflows with great mercy for souls, and especially for poor sinners…[I]t is for them that the Blood and Water flowed from My Heart as from a fount overflowing with mercy. For them I dwell in the tabernacle as King of Mercy.

Divine Mercy Novena

2010-04-07T20:02:00.002-04:00

Sixth Day

Today bring to Me the Meek and Humble Souls and the Souls of Little Children,

and immerse them in My mercy. These souls most closely resemble My Heart. They strengthened Me during My bitter agony. I saw them as earthly Angels, who will keep vigil at My altars. I pour out upon them whole torrents of grace. I favor humble souls with My confidence.

Most Merciful Jesus, You yourself have said, "Learn from Me for I am meek and humble of heart." Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart all meek and humble souls and the souls of little children. These souls send all heaven into ecstasy and they are the heavenly Father's favorites. They are a sweet-smelling bouquet before the throne of God; God Himself takes delight in their fragrance. These souls have a permanent abode in Your Most Compassionate Heart, O Jesus, and they unceasingly sing out a hymn of love and mercy.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon meek souls, upon humble souls, and upon little children who are enfolded in the abode which is the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. These souls bear the closest resemblance to Your Son. Their fragrance rises from the earth and reaches Your very throne. Father of mercy and of all goodness, I beg You by the love You bear these souls and by the delight You take in them: Bless the whole world, that all souls together may sing out the praises of Your mercy for endless ages. Amen.

Divine Mercy Novena

2010-04-06T12:42:00.000-04:00

Fifth Day

"Today bring to Me the Souls of those who have separated themselves from My Church*,

and immerse them in the ocean of My mercy. During My bitter Passion they tore at My Body and Heart, that is, My Church. As they return to unity with the Church My wounds heal and in this way they alleviate My Passion."

Most Merciful Jesus, Goodness Itself, You do not refuse light to those who seek it of You. Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of those who have separated themselves from Your Church. Draw them by Your light into the unity of the Church, and do not let them escape from the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart; but bring it about that they, too, come to glorify the generosity of Your mercy.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls of those who have separated themselves from Your Son's Church, who have squandered Your blessings and misused Your graces by obstinately persisting in their errors. Do not look upon their errors, but upon the love of Your own Son and upon His bitter Passion, which He underwent for their sake, since they, too, are enclosed in His Most Compassionate Heart. Bring it about that they also may glorify Your great mercy for endless ages. Amen.

Divine Mercy Novena

2010-04-05T15:32:00.000-04:00

Fourth Day

"Today bring to Me those who do not believe in God and those who do not know Me,

I was thinking also of them during My bitter Passion, and their future zeal comforted My Heart. Immerse them in the ocean of My mercy."

Most compassionate Jesus, You are the Light of the whole world. Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of those who do not believe in God and of those who as yet do not know You. Let the rays of Your grace enlighten them that they, too, together with us, may extol Your wonderful mercy; and do not let them escape from the abode which is Your Most Compassionate Heart.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls of those who do not believe in You, and of those who as yet do not know You, but who are enclosed in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. Draw them to the light of the Gospel. These souls do not know what great happiness it is to love You. Grant that they, too, may extol the generosity of Your mercy for endless ages. Amen.

Exsultet!

2010-04-04T09:47:00.001-04:00

It is truly right that with full hearts and minds and voices
we should praise the unseen God, the all-powerful Father,
and his only Son, our Lord Jesus Christ.

For Christ has ransomed us with his blood,
and paid for us the price of Adam's sin to our eternal Father!

This is our passover feast,
When Christ, the true Lamb, is slain,
whose blood consecrates the homes of all believers.

This is the night,
when first you saved our fathers:
you freed the people of Israel from their slav'ry,
and led them dry-shod through the sea.

This is the night,
when the pillar of fire destroyed the darkness of sin.

This is night,

when Christians ev'rywhere,
washed clean of sin and freed from all defilement,
are restored to grace and grow together in holiness.

This is the night,
when Jesus broke the chains of death
and rose triumphant from the grave.

What good would life have been to us,
had Christ not come as our Redeemer?

Father, how wonderful your care for us!
How boundless your merciful love!
To ransom a slave you gave away your Son.

O happy fault, O necessary sin of Adam,
which gained for us so great a Redeemer!

Most blessed of all nights,
chosen by God to see Christ rising from the dead!

Of this night scripture says:
"The night will be as clear as day:
it will become my light, my joy."

The power of this holy night dispels all evil,
washes guilt away, restores lost innocence,
brings mourners joy;
it casts out hatred, brings us peace,
and humbles earthly pride.

Night truly blessed,
when heaven is wedded to earth
and we are reconciled to God!

Therefore, heavenly Father, in the joy of this night,
receive our evening sacrifice of praise,
your Church's solemn offering.

Accept this Easter candle,
a flame divided but undimmed,
a pillar of fire that glows to the honor of God.

Let it mingle with the lights of heaven
and continue bravely burning
to dispel the darkness of this night!

May the Morning Star which never sets
find this flame still burning:
Christ, that Morning Star,
who came back from the dead,
and shed his peaceful light on all mankind,
your Son, who lives and reigns for ever and ever. Amen.
(Audio)

Divine Mercy Novena

2010-04-04T09:44:00.002-04:00

Third Day

"Today bring to Me all Devout and Faithful Souls, and immerse them in the ocean of My mercy. These souls brought me consolation on the Way of the Cross. They were a drop of consolation in the midst of an ocean of bitterness."

Most Merciful Jesus, from the treasury of Your mercy, You impart Your graces in great abundance to each and all. Receive us into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart and never let us escape from It. We beg this grace of You by that most wondrous love for the heavenly Father with which Your Heart burns so fiercely.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon faithful souls, as upon the inheritance of Your Son. For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, grant them Your blessing and surround them with Your constant protection. Thus may they never fail in love or lose the treasure of the holy faith, but rather, with all the hosts of Angels and Saints, may they glorify Your boundless mercy for endless ages. Amen.

Divine Mercy Novena

2010-04-03T07:58:00.000-04:00

Second Day

"Today bring to Me the Souls of Priests and Religious, and immerse them in My unfathomable mercy. It was they who gave me strength to endure My bitter Passion. Through them as through channels My mercy flows out upon mankind."

Most Merciful Jesus, from whom comes all that is good, increase Your grace in men and women consecrated to Your service,* that they may perform worthy works of mercy; and that all who see them may glorify the Father of Mercy who is in heaven.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the company of chosen ones in Your vineyard -- upon the souls of priests and religious; and endow them with the strength of Your blessing. For the love of the Heart of Your Son in which they are enfolded, impart to them Your power and light, that they may be able to guide others in the way of salvation and with one voice sing praise to Your boundless mercy for ages without end. Amen.

Divine Mercy Novena

2010-04-02T17:46:00.000-04:00

First Day

"Today bring to Me all mankind, especially all sinners,

and immerse them in the ocean of My mercy. In this way you will console Me in the bitter grief into which the loss of souls plunges Me."

Most Merciful Jesus, whose very nature it is to have compassion on us and to forgive us, do not look upon our sins but upon our trust which we place in Your infinite goodness. Receive us all into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart, and never let us escape from It. We beg this of You by Your love which unites You to the Father and the Holy Spirit.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon all mankind and especially upon poor sinners, all enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. For the sake of His sorrowful Passion show us Your mercy, that we may praise the omnipotence of Your mercy for ever and ever. Amen.

Sakura Matsuri

2010-03-29T11:11:00.003-04:00

If you're lucky enough to be in Washington D.C. at the beginning of April, you might get the chance to see one of my favorite spring "bloomings", the Cherry Blossom trees along the tidal basin.(Picture from The D.C Traveler) When I was little we would go and walk along the edge of the water every year at the pea of bloom time. My parents still have a magnificent Cherry Blossom tree in their front yard that looks stunning every single spring.

Saturday marked the opening day of the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

There was a huge free event at the National Building Museum. The building itself is breathtaking and offers a great field trip for kids of all ages. It was filled with a stage and about 20 stations full of free crafts and activities for kids, all based on the trees and Japanese culture. Here's some of what we saw and did. Pictures courtesy of Maddy.

Some of the crafts we came home with.

And dinner was a sort of homage to our day as well.

Panko Breaded Chicken

Rice and Stir fry Broccoli

Cherry Cheescake

Encourage

2010-03-25T15:38:00.000-04:00

Won't you please join us? I can't think of two lovelier sisters to walk this path with...well, I can all of you!

All You Need is Love

2010-03-24T09:04:00.002-04:00

Last night, at my 14 year old's insistence and planning, I attended our parish mission. It was this priest, Fr. Larry.

It will be hard to sum up the richness of what he shared, the beauty of the Mass he said in a meager blog post. But I'll try...

We are called to love. And if we love we are going to die. In some big or small way, when we love, as Christ loved us, we die to ourselves. After all, the Eucharist cost Christ his very life. Do we really know this when we receive this great gift? Are we ready to lay down our life as well? We must forgive. Always. We Catholics, we are great at judging, but we are terrible lovers. God calls us to live a life of love. It begins in our families.

This home schooling big family life that God calls me to is not always easy. Plenty of opportunities to die. Christ embraced his cross, carried it without complaining, stretched his arms out and died for love. Christ, the perfect Son of God. Will I willingly embrace every cross of this life He calls me to? A life that is really overflowing with grace and blessings.

So much grace last night! In the past weeks I have been really pondering why we home school. What do I want for my children? Now I know. I want them to know love. My imperfect human love and even more the perfect love of the Triune God. God blessed me last night and gave me a beautiful gift and a glimpse of His life in one of my daughter's souls.

At the prayers of petition, Father said that he would offer up this Mass for our personal petitions. He asked everyone to really think about what they need from Jesus. Carmen closed her eyes and then nudged me. "Mama, we should ask Jesus for something we want most in the world?" Yes I told her. She closed her eyes again. Curious, I asked her if she wouldn't mind telling me what she prayed for.

She answered, "To be happy with Him in heaven."

Anna's Rosary

2010-03-18T10:07:00.000-04:00

Exciting! The beads and parts for Anna's First Communion rosary are all here and last night I got started. I can't wait to share pictures. I was going to describe it, but I'd rather just share pictures and tell you what I used when I'm done.

Celebrating St. Patrick

2010-03-18T10:03:00.000-04:00

In the morning, little girls colored pictures of St. Patrick and Aggie made a leprechaun paper bag puppet. She named him Steve. We talked a wee bit about the Trinity.

We enjoyed soda bread and Dubliner Irish cheese at lunch.

I prepared corned beef, roasted potatoes, and sauteed cabbage for dinner. I'm pretty sure corned beef is really more of an American Irish thing, but that's okay. Everyone really liked it. I kept the potatoes and cabbage separate because I wanted them to taste like potato and cabbage. The potatoes were roasted in a hot oven with a little canola oil (I find olive oil can sometimes burn by the time the potatoes are tender), salt and pepper. The cabbage was sauteed with just a little butter (I think an Irishman would say a knob of butter) and just enough water to help it soften a bit. We had cider vinegar at the table, which was really delicious on the cabbage. It was all very yummy and I think Dave especially enjoyed our "Irish" feast. For dessert I baked pistachio cookies, made green by the addition of instant pistachio pudding. They taste very good, especially if you like pistachio.

Catholic Artworks

2010-03-08T17:17:00.000-05:00

As we've traveled the Alphabet Path, we've made use of The Alphabet of Catholic Saints by Catholic Artworks. I love this book. The text and art are just right for teaching young children. I was very excited to see that they published a book about the Rosary, Discovery the Rosary Mysteries: An Adventure for Today's Kids. I was even more excited to purchase the special package they put together. It came with some beautiful posters, the book and 2 CDs packed with beautiful clip art, coloring pages, holy cards and learning ideas. The book alone is worth the price. Simple but meaningful text and lovely illustrations to help you reflect on each mystery make this a wonderful book to include as part of your family rosary time. The more I explored the CDs, the more I knew I wanted to purchase more of them. This generous company wants to support my home schooling mission. To that end, all their CDs are always discounted for home schoolers. Even better, right now, they are extending this special offer through the end of March. Mine's on the way. Incidentally, I believe that Cd #7 of that series includes the coloring sheets for the Alphabet of Catholic Saints.
Spend some time checking out the website, they have so much to offer. It looks like there are some new books coming soon. And if you are not inclined to print and cut your own materials, they are beginning to offer printed cards and packages. They are all introductory priced right now.
Its not often we can support a Catholic business with such an artistic mission. The artist in me is delighted. The Catholic mother in me is happy to have these materials to teach and enrich my children's faith.

Who Am I

2010-03-07T19:44:00.000-05:00

I really cannot say it any better this evening. This song was played at Mass tonight. As I held John and rocked back and forth to entertain him, I listened intently. It was such a grace filled moment. As I approached to receive I felt the tears come to my eyes. It was truly my Lord, Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity, humbling himself, swooping down to me in my weakness, sparing me the climb to heaven for that brief moment when He is one with me. I pray that I remain ever grateful for so magnificent a gift.

The Cup Of Life Outpoured
Words and music by Jim Cowan

Who am I, that I should receive
The cup of life outpoured?
The bread of life, the blood of Christ
The body of my Lord

Lord, I believe! Help my unbelief
Cause me to see You as You are
The King of glory, the Lord of love
The Shepherd of my heart

Lamb of God, Holy God
I come to receive You now
Come into my heart, fill my life
With Your very presence, Lord

To great for me
This wisdom of the Lord
To hold the Savior in my hand
And greater still, the gift of God
That I should be one with Him

© 1987 Jim Cowan (Admin. by Integrity’s Hosanna! Music)

New Look

2010-03-03T14:32:00.000-05:00

As you can see, I'm sprucing things up and simplifying the look around here. Blogger now lets me add pages easily, so I have. They're really just to help organize me and what I do online. I was tired of 3 columns. Too busy. The pages serve some of the same functions without the visual clutter on the main page.
The Book Basket has different lists of books we're using and books I would like to own.
The Liturgical Notes are up so I remember to plan ahead and keep track of all the links I might need as well as our "traditional" family celebrations.
I have more ideas for pages and I'll get them up as time allows.

Little Children

2010-03-03T09:03:00.000-05:00

Barbara Curtis at Mommy Life posted about these free down loadable illustrations from old bible story books. They are charming.

I especially loved this one of women bringing their children to Jesus. Its from the group of Standard Bible Story Readers. The baby grabbing at mom's mouth. Mom with a toddler on the hip seeming to gently urge a little one forward. Love it.

Hidden Suffering

2010-03-02T09:14:00.001-05:00

kYesterday was difficult. Little girls couldn't sit still. An active baby wanted to crawl far away and get into things not meant for babies. A three year old thought clip-clopping in big shoes right as I tried to teach would be the perfect way to pass the time. I was frustrated and frazzled wondering if I was crazy to think I could possibly teach these darling little girls. How can anyone learn with such business and life happening noisily every.single.minute.

Since Maddy's Spanish class is at the parish, and Johhny can now be left at home having lunch with his siblings, I have resolved to use the hour of her class in the Adoration Chapel. I sat down, prayed the Office of Readings (which was a treasure trove of grace, but that's another story) and turned to my book.

I'm slowly reading through The Way of the Cross by Caryll Houselander this Lent. About 2 Stations a week. I want to really ponder them, draw them in, learn from them.
From the Second Station, Jesus Receives His Cross:

Because Christ has changed death to life, and suffering to redemption, the suffering of those who love Him will be a communion between them. All that hidden daily suffering that seems insignificant will be redeeming the world, it will be healing the wounds of the world.

How those words spoke to me. In a moment, all my frustration with the morning was redeemed. That struggle, and don't all moms have those hidden daily sufferings, because of Christ, can change the world. Change the world! And so I prayed for the grace to keep this always in my mind, and in the moment, turn it over to Christ, who carried my burden of sin, my cross. I unite my tiny, but never insignificant suffering to his, and He lifts me up, unto Himself.

About That Humility

2010-02-21T08:13:00.000-05:00

When you feel like God is calling you to something, funny how the prefect opportunity presents itself to live it. None of it is quite what I thought it would be. But here I am. And I'm clinging to these words today.

Humility

2010-02-16T09:23:00.000-05:00

Wow. Last post February 1! And I thought those were snowy days. Since then over 40 inches of snow fell in 2 storms just days apart. There are still great piles of snow everywhere. My street has been transformed into an obstacle course as you maneuver your way through the great mountains that the snow plows left behind.

Every activity the kids participate in was canceled last week. Can you imagine? No where to rush to. At all. It was glorious. And like Elizabeth, you might imagine it means some big life-changing decisions about all that rushing around. But no. While I relished the peace, I also know that these things that have me rushing around are things my children dearly love. Sports and groups that build character and keep bodies healthy. So this week the dance begins again.

So does Lent. I will admit right now, I have no "perfect" plan in place. I have favorite books and resources. I was surprised that 2 of my younger girls have been discussing their "sacrifices" for a few days now. But for myself...I think, meekness and humility are what is called for. That urge to immediately respond or correct or command will be mortified. I think today I may go get some letters for our "mantle". Humility.

Daybook: More Snowy Days Edition

2010-02-01T14:11:00.000-05:00

Right now...Nursing and typing. Just returned from Maddy's Spanish class where the poor girl had an attack of test anxiety and fears she did not do as well on her test as she knew she could have.

A little later...Ballet and basketball.

Speaking of basketball....Poor Lilly. She was looking forward to playing on her birthday (and winning). Alas, the snow shut everything down. We did however have a lovely dinner of her favorite things, salmon cakes and creamy cauliflower soup. I find this amusing since she is so picky, but these are the two things she really loves.

Later this week...Tae Kwon Do, basketball, Co-op and more.

Live the Liturgy...Feast of the Presentation tomorrow. One of my very favorites. And special now because it was meant to be Johnny's due date. I think we'll decorate some candles. Happily, I discovered I already have all the supplies necessary.

Keeping the home...My poor schoolroom is badly in need of attention, but it feels overwhelming. I think I'll tackle it one bookcase at a time. Laundry needs lots of work this week as well. Should have focused on more this weekend. But John gave me some very rough nights, especially on Saturday when he was essentially awake from 12am to 8am. You can imagine this left me rather fatigued.

From the kitchen...I have lots of stuff in the freezer and pantry to cook with, just need to carefully plan it out. Highlights for this week should be sweet and sour pork stir fry, flank steak and sweet potatoes, chicken...something, um....see, need to think this through.

Thankful for...My parents safe return. I am so spoiled, living close. I miss them when they're gone.

Praying for...A local friend on bed rest for the next 3 weeks to keep her little babe tucked in safe.

Reading...need to find something good.

Creating...Order in my home.

From the schoolroom...I have a good plan in place. Simple. Uncluttered. Reading and narrating from a few choice books.

Picture Thought...

This is from late September. I can see how much John has already changed. He certainly has more hair.This is a classic John expression. And the eyes. Oh my, they're irresistible.

Daybook: Routines and Rhythms Edition

2010-01-25T18:05:00.000-05:00

Right now...Nursing and typing. I can hear something loud and silly happening in the basement. Love the sound of my big kids and little kids sharing in the same fun.

A little later...Basketball practice for Sam. Dave is home early, but not feeling to great, so I may have to do the driving...and make dinner. Mondays are hard.

Speaking of basketball....Poor Lilly. Another loss this weekend. However her team played much better and she didn't get any fouls. She fouled out of a game the previous weekend.

Later this week...Tae Kwon Do, basketball, Co-op, Abuelo and Abuela back from Peru (yay! we always miss them so much when they're gone, lucky them got to go to the beach) and...

Lilly turns 14 on Saturday!...And of course she thinks it is just perfect that she gets to play basketball on her birthday.

Live the Liturgy...Anna made her First Confession on Saturday. The very best part was watching the kids faces as they walked out of the confessional. Have you ever seen what grace looks like? I have. Awesome.

Keeping the home...Here's the part that needs routine and rhythm...I'll let you know when we get there.

From the kitchen...Meal planning has been going well and I'm back in a pattern of only 2 visits to a grocery store a week. Still not in the bread making pattern. Hope to really get this going this week. Highlights for this week will be Beef Stew (hopefully with that home made bread), gnocchi (Lilly's birthday), and maybe Salmon cakes.

Thankful for...My beautiful Church, Holy Trinity.

Praying for...An end to abortion and for all the women and families traumatized and injured by this brutal act.

Reading...Ah, a slight political moment. I got some trial offer for 4 magazines subscriptions for $8. I picked TIME as one of them. I received the first issue featuring an article about Obama. It was interesting, by which I mean a tiny bit infuriating. I walked away from the article with the feeling that the author was trying to tell me Obama is having a harder time in the polls right now because he's just a little bit smarter than us, more of a thinker, and we just don't get what he's trying to do. And it blames the Republicans. Cheap shot and predictable.

Creating...Careful plans for the next 8 weeks of school. I was delighted to see that I already have, on my shelves, every book I might need for Sam's next unit. Hooray.

From the schoolroom...See above.

Picture Thought...

This Anna and baby Aggie, so this is about 3 years ago. I can't believe how little Anna looks!

Haiti

2010-01-13T19:14:00.000-05:00

Haiti already suffers such staggering poverty...Lord have mercy and let us all do what we can materially and spiritually to aid the people of Haiti.

Real School

2010-01-13T12:31:00.000-05:00

Just so that I'm real around here...be assured that homeschooling in my home is not always exactly, um ....idyllic.

This mornings hour (yes, just one good hour, because...well, you'll see) was a series of interruptions that resulted in my saying things like this every few minutes:

"Just please go to the basement for a little while Aggie....please....please."

"No Aggie, don't glue anything right now, I'll fix your fairy."

"Kay, DO NOT touch your sister with your toe again."

"Sam! Grab the baby. He's headed for the stairs."

"Anna and Carmen, you are too old for me to have to stop to tell you not to shove each other."

"Aggie! Don't pull your brother by the ears!"

"Carmen! Grab the baby, he's headed for the stairs."

"Anna, get that look of your face and please change your attitude right now."

"Sam! Clean up Aggie's hands before she touches anything, she's covered in green chalk."

"Aggie. PLEASE go downstairs."

"Kay, keep still."

And imagine a very squirmy active one year old wanting to nurse and crawl around,at the same time.

On and on it went. Sigh. There's always this afternoon.

Daybook: Very Short Edition

2010-01-11T20:59:00.000-05:00

Right now...Cracking the whip, trying to get my big girls to finish evening chores, waiting fir Dave to get home and feed him some dinner. And nursing the baby.

A little later...My bed.

He's home...So that's it for this Daybook.

First Daybook of 2010

2010-01-04T18:28:00.002-05:00

Right now...Just returned from many many errands. Too many. Somehow jumping back into our busy activity schedule caught me off guard and Mondays are particularly busy. So I'm feeling a little disoriented, pondering how different life was just a year ago as I tried to help my preemie make up his lost time in the womb by snuggling him close all the time. A year later, the dear boy still loves to be held, all the time.

A little later...Feed a quick dinner to everyone (except Dave), run Sam to basketball, where we'll be met by Dave so I can be home quicker and don't have to take John out in the cold night.

Speaking of cold....Brrrrrr! Hoping for some global warming, but the forecast doesn't hold out much hope.

Later this week...Tae Kwon Do (Have I mentioned I am joining in with Anna once a week? I'm getting pretty good. We had a 2 week break so I'm thinking tomorrow is going to hurt a little bit.), more basketball, co-op, a family portrait, a family party, a basketball game...

Live the Liturgy...I know the Church celebrated the Epiphany on Sunday, but traditionally it was celebrated on January 6 (it may still be in other countries throughout the world). Our family tradition is that the grandchildren spend the night at Abuelo and Abuela's on the night of the 5th and celebrated "King's Day" with a big breakfast in the morning. Besides Christmas, I think it is one of my children's absolute favorite days of the year. The way things have worked out this year, Johnny and I will be spending the night too.

Keeping the home...New (much longed for) furniture will arrive this week, so the front room needs deep cleaning and major reworking. Not quite as intense as Elizabeth, but work nonetheless. Having to make room means things in other places, like the schoolroom have to make way. I feel purging coming our way.

From the kitchen...Now that the holidays are over it is time for serious meal planning. One of my goals this year is to cur our grocery bill drastically. My sister gave me this great book for Christmas and I baked some today, with dough left for 2 more loaves. I'm hoping to get into a regular dough mixing/bread baking routine. I was also intrigued by Elizabeth's idea of blogging through a cookbook. I've great success (and compliments) on the free recipes I've cooked from the Pioneer Woman. In fact I gave each of my sisters a copy of her book for Christmas and had decided I really did want one of my own...

Thankful for...my teens. Just between you and me, my girls are awesome. :)

Praying for...an old friend of the family, very ill. My mother-in-laws twin brother, recovering from a stroke. Colleen.

Reading...Finished Catching Fire in one day. It is so good, I wish I hadn't because now I have a long wait. Thinking of delving deeply into Pope Benedict's Caritas In Veritate after watching a brilliant discussion about it on EWTN.

Creating...um, a redesigned front room? Does that count?

From the schoolroom...Need to rework schedule and routines now that I have a better idea of what the basketball schedules will look like. I think the little girls will keep working the Holy Land and then step over into India, with much more simplicity than we approached Africa. In my zeal, though we learned a lot, it was a constant feeling of being under the gun to just finish.all.those.books.

Picture Thought...

Johnny a year ago. That's a newborn diaper he's laying next to and one of the smallest onesies we owned.

2010-01-02T09:39:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year!

Um...

2009-12-26T18:31:00.000-05:00

Well, judging by my last post, you can see life's been busy.

So first off, MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Second...

John is 1 today!

I can hardly believe it. Especially when I think about how we spent last year. Lots of fear, lots of unkowns. But today, we celebrate. We celebrate because God was so generous to bless us with our little boy, that God was so faithful in keeping him safe and healthy when the odds were against him, that our friends and family were so faithful with their prayers and support. Honestly, today I really want to be about being grateful for the miracle their intercession brought us...a happy, healthy and joyful little boy.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T09:00:00.001-05:00

Thanksgiving Daybook

2009-11-23T10:36:00.002-05:00

Right now...Teens still sleeping. Coffee brewing. Sleepy baby in my lap. He didn't get the memo (again) about how night time is for sleeping. I can hear little girls and one big brother playing a game in the basement. Sam is so good to his little sisters, he even agreed to dress up for their game.

A Little Later...Starting the beef stew in the crockpot. It is cold and gray outside. Stew bubbling away in the crockpot sounds wonderful. No Spanish class which will really make today a quiet start to the week. Thank God.

This week...A small Thanksgiving with my parents since my siblings will be other places. We'll miss them and pray they have blessed days wherever they are.

Special today....please pray for my friend Mary Beth and her family as they welcome a new baby boy. We can't wait to meet little Justin!

Living the Liturgy...Advent! I LOVE Advent. I love pulling out the ever growing tub of books. I love the wreath. I love the prayers. I love the chocolate calendars. I love the baking. I love preparing little hearts to welcome the King of Kings. I love preparing my heart. I love it all! Last year was difficult. It was right at the start of Advent that I realized my pregnancy had entered the world of "high risk" and the next few weeks would be full of waiting rooms and ultrasounds. My body felt ill and completely fatigued. My heart and mind worried and worried. The season went by and my memories are a bit hazy and confused. Little did I imagine my surprise Christmas present. But that is another post. Maybe I'll post my Advent plans later this week.

From the Schoolroom...I may finally get my "simple" week. We'll add in some Thanksgiving stories for the little girls and maybe we'll make pumpkin pie, just for fun.

Thankful for...Anna's Tae Kwan Do school. We were really blessed with how the class came together (many thanks to Mary Beth, yes, the one having the baby). It has been so good for her. She loves it. And this past Saturday she got to compete in her first school tournament. I know I was way more nervous than she was. When the time came she did her forms with confidence and beauty. She remembered how to do her attack/defense. Her hard work (we practice a lot at home) and concentration earned her two gold medals, first place in her division. This came on the heels of bad news from the eye doctor. My poor Anna has some serious vision problems. It is a miracle she has learned to read with such ease. We'll know more this week about how strong her *first* prescription needs to be.

Picture Thought...

She won!

The Holy Season of Advent

2009-11-21T08:59:00.000-05:00

Please read Colleen's thoughts. I pray Our Lord can empty and prepare me and leave me as open as this dear soul.

Read This

2009-11-17T13:07:00.000-05:00

I love hitting the share button in my Google Reader. But sometimes it is just not enough attention. Please go read Elizabeth's words today. Trust and pray.

Handsome

2009-11-17T09:46:00.001-05:00

Daybook: In November

2009-11-16T09:45:00.000-05:00

Right now...Still trying to get one teen to wake up already. And I'm feeling bad that I brought Dave his coffee early, forgetting he's taking today off.

Later today...Spanish class for Maddy and Ballet for Kay. Both girls love these classes. We got to observe Kay a few weeks ago and little girls learning ballet is one the most darling things ever. Missing from this list now is soccer (which will be replaced by basketball in just a few weeks, don't worry, I won't be bored). Carmen tried out for but did not make it on to the All-Star team for her age division. No worries, she's so glad she tried, intends to play even better and try again next season. We think she's a star.

This week...TKD, some eye appointments, Co-Op and Anna will probably compete in her very first TKD tournament on Saturday.

Living the Liturgy...Sunday is one of my very favorite feasts, Christ the King. Several of my children have been baptized on the feast so I'll try my hand at a crown cake this year and celebrate the day they became new creations in Christ.

In the Kitchen...Blah, feeling so uninspired. Don't get me wrong, I'm cooking balanced tasty meals but I'm feeling soooo bored! Hmmm, just struck me that perhaps God is giving me an opportunity for grace...that the food I prepare is not about how I feel about out, but about nourishing those in my care. Nothing fancy requires, just the love I put into it...hmmmm.

Life of Learning...I desperately need to string together some really focused school days, that have structure and goals. Darn it. I can't blame the wedding anymore.

John...Still wee. Crawling. Waves bye. Does a high five. Has the most infectious laugh. Sleeping a bit better.

Wedding Thoughts...How wonderful that two families, so different and in a very real way, separated by an ocean (!) can come together and celebrate the love between two people. Even more amazing is the idea that these two people now become a real living sign to the world that these families are no longer separate. How exciting to be in a place and hear Spanish, English and Mandarin and think "Yes! This is family." How sweet to see parents entrust the heart of their children to their new spouse. And just as touching, siblings crying with joy and a wee bit of sadness (or a lot, poor Jackie!) knowing your brother/sister now really belongs to someone else. And what a joy that someone else is! Best of all, she LOVES my little brother and he is always a better man with her. How redeeming that a day that brought sadness a year ago as we said goodbye to a father and grandfather now brings us such great joy.

Picture Thought...

Before the Wedding Stuff...

2009-11-10T18:13:00.000-05:00

Aggie is potty trained! Took just over 3 weeks and was a battle very single day. Every day I woke up and just repeated to myself over and over, "I will NOT put a diaper on her, no matter what."

When I started the process 3 weeks ago, I never imagined we would not be quite done during the rehearsal dinner where Aggie asked to "pee on the potty" oh, about 100 times. I'll just tell you I am quite familiar with the bathroom at a certain Chinese restaurant in downtown Chevy Chase, MD.

One more gem of wisdom...potty training and soda (lots of soda, because, hey, its a party and the nice waiter just keeps bringing glass after glass without even having to be asked)...BAD.

And I promise, Carlos and Jenn, my further thoughts on your wonderful wedding will have nothing to do with the potty.

Wedding Weekend

2009-11-06T08:40:00.000-05:00

Life has been busy and this weekend is full. I can't complain. It is full of celebrations of family, friends and vows to share a life of love. It doesn't get any better than that. Maddy will be taking many pictures and I hope to share some here. Until next week...

Christmas in October

2009-10-14T15:06:00.000-04:00

I am very sad to say I only just discovered this wonderful Catholic business late this summer. I'm sure I had heard people refer to them, but had never visited their site. What a treasure! Great prices and amazing service. Linda personally called me to let me know a book I ordered had just gone out of print. And have I mentioned their selection is outstanding. Let's just say my wish list is getting rather long. Now go there and don't miss out on the Christmas in October sale for some even better deals.

Delight

2009-10-14T14:56:00.000-04:00

My little man.