Lucy had a "blue" day.

....No really!!!

...BLUE!!!

(those who were here yesterday might recall that she was having an "orange" day then.)

Who keeps leaving the markers out?!?!?

thoughts on the inauguration

Okay, I may just be the only one in America who did not pay one bit of attention to what was going on in DC today. My husband caught bits of it, and the kids watched it at school. I'm glad for that. We talked about it at supper, and I encouraged them to remember where they were and what they were doing when they witnessed this historical moment. America has sworn in its first black president. That is something to be proud of. I only wish...
I think we can all agree, that wishing won't get us far though. So now what?
A friend shared these words from Father John Corapi. I thought they were worthy of sharing.
News Flash: WE WIN!
As we prepare to enter a new era in politics and perhaps society in general, keep something in mind: WE WIN! No matter what political party is in power at a given point in time, in the end those that remain faithful to Jesus Christ win the war. We may have to fight many battles outnumbered and even despised and looked upon as criminals and outcasts by a society that is unraveling and degenerating into something no one could have imagined.What matters is that we run the race to the finish line and fight the good fight. Don’t “go with the flow,” for as the great Archbishop Fulton Sheen reminds us, “Dead bodies float downstream.” More than ever we shall have to be strong in the faith. Regular and worthy reception of the sacraments, constant prayer, and rigorous study of the faith is now essential, not merely a luxury. The front line and primary battle is going to be the fight for life: the dignity of every human life from the moment of conception to the last moment of natural life. If we lose that one, every other battle space will be compromised. If the government succeeds in establishing abortion as an inalienable “right”, then the elderly and sick will be next. It will then be a short and slippery step to the government deciding who lives and dies regardless of their inherent human dignity.If you don’t already pray the Rosary every day, please start at once. The prayer of the holy Rosary is the prayer of the holy Gospel, and that means it is the prayer of the Good News Who is Jesus Christ, the LIFE of the world. Many saints will be forged in the crucible of the coming years. Make sure you are among them.
God bless you,Fr. John Corapi

unsuspecting criminals

2 yr. old Rose with "little" cousin Beth swiping cookies and looking especially cute about it.

birthday season

We celebrate 8 birthdays in our home between Christmas and Valentines. That adds up to a lot of cake, and many visitors (godparents and grandparents) passing through. We've always tried to keep birthdays simple, kids pick their special birthday meal and cake and ice cream on their actual birthday for grandparents and godparents that are able to make it. Inevitably though, there are folks that want to come celebrate, but can't make their special day, so we catch up on a weekend. This weekend was just that.

Friday we celebrated Alice and Emma's 9th along with grandparents and Emma's godmother. Saturday was pretty quiet.

Sunday we celebrated with Grace's godfather and his family for a belated get-together.

Monday brought Alice's godmother and her 5 kids, Alice's godfather and family, grandpa, and another of John's sisters and her family (cause the more the merrier, right?!) We started gathering after lunch, and by supper we had 7 adults and 22 kids in the house. What a joyful noise! The day included board games, a "square up" game tournament, and somewhere in the middle the older ones bundled and took off for the snow hill, while the younger ones played together nicely. I wish there were more opportunities for nice visits like these.

Anyhow, I had thrown on a crockpot of homemade mac-n-cheese, and another crock of ham slices for sandwiches earlier in the day. So along with a veggie tray (prepared ahead) and 2 dozen cupcakes, a 9X13 cake, some pretzels and dip, and other snacks, supper was quite simple. The hardest part was finding a seat, but then...there's always room for one more. Turns out several of the cousins, an aunt and an uncle all celebrate January birthdays, so we included each of their names on the cake, and sang to them all. It was a wonderfully exhausting day with family, and I'm so grateful for the blessing of each of them.

I think we're caught up with birthday wishes until February when John and Mary will turn 5. Oh my. I never thought I'd be grateful for a brief hiatus from birthday cake, but...who'd a thought I'd be this blessed with birthdays to celebrate?! God is good.

The UPS man delivered a much anticipated pair of shoes for Grace today. She's to be the flower girl in her cousin's wedding in a couple weeks, and needed ivory shoes to go with the dress that was ordered. Unfortunately, in trying to save a dime, I opted to pick up a pair on my own, rather than purchase them from the bridal store. (What was I thinking?! You can't find ivory shoes in January!!) Anyhow, with time running out, as we need the shoes to finish alterations on the dress, we finally located a pair online. (And no, didn't save a dime!) Lesson learned.
As we unpacked them today, I was frustrated to find that while they fit perfect, and looked beautiful, the fancy little buckle of one shoe was missing a couple rhinestones. Not major, but come on, they're supposed to be new. No time to return them, so we'll just take the loss.
Grace would not be discouraged though. As I mumbled my frustrations and packed them back in the box for safe-keeping, she consoled me. "It's okay mom. They have a nice clip-clop sound when I walk in them, and that's what really makes them WONDERFUL!"

making the day special

I'm not a perfect mom. I'll be the first to admit that, without hesitation. I've said more than my share of things that could certainly be enough to send any of the kids needing therapy someday.

On that note, I realize too, that having a large family makes it necessary for me to pay attention. "Look alive!" if you will. It wouldn't be so difficult for me to let any of the kids at any given time "slip through the cracks." I really do make an effort to make special times with all of the kids individually to ensure this doesn't happen. Today, Mary got some attention. She wanted rollers in her hair...so we let the laundry slip by and did it. She looks beautiful doesn't she?! The other girls teased her a bit about the big curls. Just jealous, cause I'd only let Mary have them today.

(Yes, Grace. Tomorrow can be your day!)

a belated thanks

Just nine years late on sending out this thanks....

Good Saint Gerard, patron of mothers, assist me in thanking God for the great gift of motherhood. During the months of my waiting, I learned to call upon you and placed the safety of my child and myself under your powerful protection. The great lesson of your trust in God sustained me; your slogan, "God will provide," became my hope and consolation. I thank God for my child and for motherhood. Help me to prize the great treasure of motherhood and obtain for me the grace to raise my child as a child of God.Amen

Happy 9th Birthday Alice and Emma!

...if only you could know how you are the answer to so many prayers. We are grateful for the gift of you!

cold hands, warm heart.

Well, it wasn't a snow day. We had to settle for the 2hr. delay. But it was a good day, none the less. We all slept in till 8, which was a wonderful treat, and reminder of our lazy days of Christmas (all except for John that is, who was off to work in the wee morning hours). After the 3 oldest were off to school at 10, the rest of us decided to bake cookies. I don't always love having the help of 2 yr. olds in the kitchen, but today it was enjoyable as they each (Grace, Mary, John, Charlie, Frank & Rose) took turns measuring, mixing, etc. (Lucy was down for a morning nap.) We made spritz cookies with sprinkles. They taste wonderful, but unfortunately didn't hold their shape when they baked and just melted into a pool of paper thin, sprinkled wafers. After back-tracking through the recipe to see where we went wrong, I realized that with all my helpful distractions, I doubled everything in the recipe but the flour, so...heavy on the butter and sugar, but thin. Oh well. We're an easy to please kind of crowd.
A dear friend, who I don't see often enough, called and joined us, along with her 4 yr. old son for lunch. It was a wonderful treat to chat and spend time with her, especially so impromptu. So nice to catch up. She's got 6 children, about the same ages as our oldest 6, including a set of twins as well...so there are plenty of funnies to share. I'm so grateful she stopped in!! I'm not good at that sort of thing (dropping in unannounced), but think it's great when other people do. It was definitely the highlight of my day.
After a nice visit while the kids played, it was nap time. John and Mary (home from preschool today) helped me with another recipe for chocolate toffee bars. They were a total failure. Burnt black in the oven. Even the chocolate and walnuts couldn't hide the smokey flavor, so into the trash they went. I never did figure out what went wrong there. It's a tried and true recipe that I followed to a tee. What a disappointment...just not my day in the kitchen I guess.
I'll admit I was a little afraid to start supper tonight. But our breakfast egg and sausage casserole, cinnamon rolls and fresh fruit turned out perfectly. It is a small miracle when everyone clears their plates...and ask for seconds.
Anyhow, it was a beautiful day today despite the bitter cold outside. I couldn't help but feel grateful, and reflective about all that we've been through in the last weeks. Grateful for the most basic things: warm home, good food, caring friends, good health, the blessing of family, and perhaps even grateful for the experience of losing a most precious little miracle. That sounds difficult to understand, even as I type it. I still have moments of intense sadness, thinking about the child I'll have to wait my lifetime to know, and feeling robbed of the joys of mothering that precious little life. But there are moments when I realize that this little saint in heaven is a unique gift. We share a spiritual connection, and as I pray to little Cy, for many things throughout the day, I'm grateful for the gift of him as he is, my little angel. The way God intended for our relationship to be. Our Heavenly Father has proven time and time again, that His plan is far greater than any I could have made for my life. I must trust Him once more.


"God smiles when we trust Him completely." ~the purpose driven life

shopping with a 6 yr. old who's "all that"...

...is no good for the self esteem. (to say the least)
I had Grace with me in the mall on Monday, looking for a few last-minute essentials for a wedding we're invited to, including a dress for myself. As we walked through the aisles of ladies dresses, she mumbles, "These are for skinny people mom. Let's keep moving." Aaarg. She's right. Let's keep moving.

Our first "snow day" from school

School dismissed 2 hrs. early today as the snow fell, leaving 5-6 inches of the white fluffy stuff. Wooohoooo! We love snow days!! Crossing our fingers for another one tomorrow. A 2hr. delay has already been announced. John had today off (part of his usual "weekend") so he took the 6 oldest to the big snow hill in town, while I stayed home with the nappers and lined up the mugs, ready for hot chocolate on their return.

a visit from the "cattle queen?"

Alice and Emma mentioned they had a visit from the "beef queen" to their classroom this week at school. I'm not sure what her official title is, but she's apparently the reigning royalty for the Auglaize County 4-H beef producers?.
Anyhow, she talked with them about 4-H and going to the fair, etc. Apparently she asked the question "If you could take any animal to the fair, what would it be?" Emma was quick to raise her hand and offer "I'd bring a hog!" and the why.... "because my twin sister says I live like one."
Emma thought it was so cool that the class roared with laughter. Her twin sister Alice was apparently "horrified" with embarrassment, that she was quoted in front of the whole class.

snow days

John's dad happened to be over after school the other day, just as the kids (9 of them to be exact) were gearing up for snow play. By the time the last were bundled and out the door, the youngest ones were back in, peeling off the layers and begging for hot chocolate. As boots and mittens, scarves and hats piled up by the back door, cold hands found relief wrapped around a warm mug. Dad laughed remembering his own dozen fighting over boots (boys never wanted to wear red, girls never wanted black.) He admitted he'd forgotten all the effort that went into those few minutes of fun in the snow, and the mounds of snow clothes that landed in their laundry room when the play time was done. It was fun conversation and I'm glad he was there with us to remember and giggle about it. He asked if boots still slipped over shoes and fastened with a rubberband over a button. Nope, thank heavens for velcro, zippers and fur lining!

with sincere gratitude...

We are so thankful for all the kind words, prayers, cards, meals and treats dropped by the house. Your kindness means so much. It's been a very difficult week as we mourn the loss of our new little one, and then waited for the time when we'd be able to hold our tiny angel.

And while that opportunity to hold him did not come, I did have the D&C today, and feel we can now begin to have some opportunity for closure, and healing.

We've decided to name the baby, and although I can never be certain, I've felt that it was a boy, and the name came easily. Every January 9th, our family will choose to honor the feast of our newest Saint in heaven, Cyril "Cy" Thomas Schmiesing.

My mom had given me a Prayer Book for Mothers for my birthday last month, and found comfort today in the words of this simple prayer to our new child in heaven:

Now that you, my precious baby,

are cradled in Our Father's arms,

please watch over us, your parents,

as we would have wanted to watch over you. Amen.

loving the small town life...

For many reasons, I love small town living. But this latest reason had me laughing out loud last night...something we can always use more of.

A couple months back I wrote here about the new thermometer I'd purchased at Walmart. It's one of the new forehead scanners that gives accurate readings instantly. (and YES IT WORKS!)
Anyhow, the $5 rebate check I'd also mentioned arrived in the mail this week, so I signed it and sent it with John while he was out running errands yesterday. It did say "no 3rd party...blah, blah blah" on the back, but I figured no one at the bank would question it. Well, wrong...they did. Apparently someone "not from here" was working the counter, and didn't feel comfortable cashing the check, so she wanted to check with her manager. I know...just doing her job! Meanwhile, "Sarah," (name changed for anonymity ;') another teller at the bank walked by with a friendly "Hi John!" The first teller questioned her about the check, as John shrugged an aplogetic "it's just a rebate check for a thermometer of all things..." Sarah, without missing a beat, added "Oh, the forehead one (making a swiping motion over her forehead)...I read about it on Jamie's blog!"
She then mumbled to teller one to go ahead and cash the check...it would be fine.

Only in a small town! I love it!!!


(and by the way, I never did get my $5. Darnit...who can you trust these days?!)

on a lighter note...

kids will (thank heavens!) be kids, and so shananigans will ensue. It's nice to have something to laugh about.

2 year old Rose has just learned to escape from the confines of her crib now, so rather than fight it, we just lowered the crib rail to make her climb a little less dangerous. I'm sure in good time, we'll dig the toddler or twin bed out of the attic, but for now...it's working. She's still napping well, and hasn't tested us much, that is, until last night. The youngest 3 were in bed in their separate rooms, and I kept hearing something upstairs. I guessed it was Rose maneuvering about, but figured it was harmless, so gave it a few minutes. When the noises continued, I headed upstairs for a peak. Turns out darling Rose had decided to "move in" to baby Lucy's room...which happens to be where Grace and Mary also room...and stash their makeup. I found the little peanut sitting at her sisters' pint-size table and chairs, makeup smeared over her entire face, and chomping away on Lucy's pacifier. (Contraband for Rose who has been without one for months now...but still tries to steal Lucy's any chance she gets.)
I glanced over to Lucy who was standing wide-eyed in her crib surrounded by everything harmful you can imagine...a balloon (for choking) a belt (strangulation?) a trash-can (???) and a grocery list of other crazy items I can't even recall. It was literally standing room only! Rose had also carried her own pillow, blankets and pile of stuffed animals and laid them out neatly on the bigger girls' bed...moving in apparently.
I didn't know whether to laugh or scream. Unfortunatley, I chose the screaming, which immediately sent both Rose and Lucy into a cry of terror. John came rushing in thinking someone was injured or dying. I scooped Rose and her belongings back to her room, with a quick detour to the bathroom for a facewashing, and John proceeded to return Lucy to a peaceful slumber, after scooping all the junk out of her crib of course.
It was a crazy time, but in hindsight, the look on Rose's face as she was "busted" was priceless and it has us all in stitches to retell it today.

He gives the barren woman a home, making her the joyous mother of children. Praise the LORD!(Psalms 113:9 Holy Bible ESV)

a prayer request

I've put off writing as long as possible, but it becomes necessary for me to share, and to ask for prayers as we grieve the loss of our newest baby to be.
I went in for a routine 3-month check-up yesterday with my obstetrician, only to find that the little life growing inside me, has passed. When the doctor was unable to hear the heartbeat, she opted for an ultrasound instead. Neither of us were especially alarmed, just figured baby was hiding a bit. I can't begin to describe the sinking feeling in my chest to learn the baby's heart had stopped. No movement, no heartbeat, just the image of a lifeless, perfectly formed little baby on the ultrasound monitor. A child I will only ever know in my heart.
I went to the hospital for a more detailed ultrasound, only to have my worst fears confirmed. I wasn't able to see the images on the monitor this time, only the flat line when the tech turned on the doppler to check for heart tones. No words were needed. She just handed me tissues, and asked me to wait while she spoke with the radiologist.
John and I spent the day, mostly in tears, telling a few family members, but mostly just sharing our sadness together. When the kids got home from school, we shared the news with them as well. The 3 oldest not only understood, but also felt the loss, and I was touched by their comments, and questions as we talked through it. I tried to explain that we'd now have a special saint in heaven to pray to, and intercede for us. Sam broke my heart when he asked if he could name the baby so he could be more specific in his prayers. He suggested the name "Sweet Baby Angel" and it brings me to tears again when I remember him praying at bedtime last night to our "Sweet Baby Angel in heaven."
The painful irony is that my body has not yet realized what my mind now knows. I continue to feel "morning sickness" and have not yet begun the process of miscarriage. For now, the doctor has recommended I wait a few days to see if the baby will pass on it's own, and if not, I'll go in to the hospital friday for a procedure called a D & C.
It's an incredibly sad time, as we grieve the loss of a baby we'll never hold, and yet has already made a place in our hearts and our family. I find comfort in the abundant blessings that surround me, a constant reminder of God's mercy and love.
Your prayers are greatly appreciated.
God Bless

On the 12th day of Christmas...

...we finally get to see...
SNOW!!!!
Yippee!!

Happy 6th Birthday to our Grace Elizabeth.

The weather seems much the same as the day she was born...snowy, although then it was much more ice. We slip-slided our way to the hospital with only moments to spare before she made her grand entrance around 10:30pm.

busy doing not much of anything...

To stop by and see our house, you'd wonder what exactly I've been busy with. I've "kept up" with laundry and dishes, and the basic cleaning...but for the most part, we've been busy doing not-much-of-anything! These days since Christmas have been such a treat, and I just hate that school starts back on Monday already. We've all enjoyed sleeping in, staying up late watching movies together, eating popcorn from John's new "stir-crazy" popcorn maker, (okay, we're pretty simple) and basically just enjoying these 12 days of Christmas. I've yet to finish my Christmas cards, and am thinking I might just join the "every-other-year" club with a couple of my aunts. I can be cool with that. We still have not found homes for all the new Christmas toys, and find ourselves tucking them back under the tree each night rather than put them away. Our van was even out of commission for 3 or 4 days till we finally got it into the shop and running again, and honestly, we didn't miss it a bit. I love that we're spending time playing board games together, fixing puzzles, building blocks, oh, and Playdoh...we love that stuff!
Just wishing these simple times could last a bit longer. (sigh)
But unfortunately, John's back to work tomorrow already, and schools back in a couple days...the end of our little vacation is nearing. I think we'll do some baking tomorrow...sugar levels are starting to drop as the holiday treats have disappeared.
Peaceful weekend to you all!

Happy New Year!

Wishes for peace and prosperity to you in the new year!

As for me, I resolve to start getting to bed earlier...starting tomorrow. ;-)

Happy Birthday dear Sam!

On this day 8 years ago, we were blessed with 10# 2 oz. Samuel Joseph. I can still feel his weight on my belly as the doctor placed him there for the first time. Wow, he felt big!!

His big sisters, Alice and Emma (just 11 months old) were staying with John's sister Mary for the day. Emma had her first 3 teeth cut through, and was a real "pleasure" to have around, I'm sure! (I still haven't forgotten Mary...thank you!!!)

For a few weeks to come, we'll have 3 eight year olds in the house. The kids like telling everyone that. They mentioned it first thing this morning. I joked, "Yikes. Just wait till I have 3 sixteen year olds." Emma was quick with "Yeah, cool. Maybe we'll plan to go on a triple date that day."
(AHHHHH! don't start with that!)

Happy Birthday Sammy Boy!

patience is a virtue

Patience is indeed a virtue, and one that is given many opportunities for practice and refinement...especially in a large family. Can you imagine having to wait your turn?!

Youngest to oldest is how it worked here on Christmas day. Poor Alice.

(Santa delivered toys to our basement this year, where there was much more room to spread out and yet still be together as gifts with small parts were opened and scattered.)

Feast of the Holy Innocents, Martyrs

Since the sixth century, on December 28, the Church has celebrated the memory of those children killed because of Herod's rage against Christ (cf. Mt 2:16-17). Uncertain of the whereabouts of the Holy Family, he ordered the massacre of all male children under the age of two. Liturgical tradition refers to them as the "Holy Innocents" and regards them as martyrs. Throughout the centuries Christian art, poetry and popular piety have enfolded the memory of the "tender flock of lambs" with sentiments of tenderness and sympathy.

a prayer:

Lord, as the horror of genocide continues today through the mask of abortion, strengthen us for the battle and enlighten us to the awareness of your beautiful gift of life. We pray for your continued grace. Amen.

A Blessed Christmas to all

It was a wonderfully exhausting Christmas here for our family! I hope you all enjoyed your Christmas as well.

Ours kicked off on Christmas eve with 4:00 Children's mass. Our two oldest joined in the choir, Sam played the role of Joseph, and Grace was one of the many angels dressed to celebrate the birth of our Saviour. John and Mary also attended mass with us, but this time we left Charlie along with the other 3 young ones at Grandma's. We arrived at church more than 1/2 hour early, and found it to be standing room only already. Fortunately once mass began, and all the angels found their seats, there were a couple extra pews to fill in, so we did get a seat. What a beautiful celebration it was!

Afterwards, we joined the younger ones at my parent's house for dinner (ham sandwiches and appetizers...HEAVY on the appetizers.) It was all so delicious! Of course there was time for some billiards and dancing (mostly the young ones) to christmas music before it was time to open gifts. And of course more nibbling on delicious appetizers and sweets. This is also my brother's birthday, so a phonecall to Florida to wish him a happy birthday was in order.

Naturally, bedtime took a bit longer than usual after all that excitement. I thought the kids would never fall asleep. Of course they arranged a plate of cookies and a mug of chocolate milk on the coffee table for Santa, and did a last sweep through to pick up toys so that the house would be tidy when he arrived. By 10:30 they were asleep, so the elves got busy. Very busy! I'd not wrapped the first present yet, so we had our work cut out for us. For years we've had the tradition of just 3 gifts per child, as with the 3 wisemen's gift for the Infant King. But I also had a few gifts for godchildren to open at our party on Christmas day. I think we made it to bed by 2:30. It's kind of a blur.

The kids were up at 7am, and John and I lingered in bed just a few minutes longer to listen quietly to their conversations about the gifts left under the tree. Too cute to hear their reactions! Of course, we don't open gifts right away. That'd be too easy. Rather, we let the suspense build while we have a light breakfast, get dressed, showered, fresh coffee, etc. (C'mon mom!!!! Can we open them yet?!?!?!) We managed to hold them off till 10. Everyone seemed more than pleased with their gifts. It was a very good Christmas, and I'm enjoying these years when they're still young, and easy to please. My parents joined us for gift opening, and then a late brunch of egg/sausage casserole, fresh fruit, toast and juice. The kids were able to enjoy their new treasures briefly before we were off to set up for John's family Christmas.

It was our year to host, so we rented a nearby hall...John's one of 12 children who all have families of their own now. The numbers add up fast. It too was a wonderful party complete with a re-enactment skit of the Christmas Story, a pinata and gift giving. We also enjoyed LOTS of food and beverage. The beef I'd been working on earlier in the week seemed to turn out great. Everyone brought plenty of sides and yummies to share. Good times were definitely had by all, I think. John took the kids home sometime after 9:30 to get them off to bed, and I stayed behind with a couple of the older ones to clean up.

In the days since, we've done not much of anything, but continue to enjoy our Christmas blessings. I was able to sneak out the morning after Christmas with my best friend who was home from South Carolina. We enjoyed coffee and an hour or so of wonderful conversation. Later her kids were able to join ours for an afternoon of playtime, trying out all the new Christmas toys. They played together so well, allowing us all time to just relax and enjoy. We've put puzzles together, built Charlie's new bike, downloaded some music for mp3's, continued to munch on christmas sweets, built forts and castles with Legos and Lincoln Logs, played with dollies and strollers, trucks and cars and tractors...and on and on. Tonight we're looking forward to the bounty of Grace's new Easy-Bake oven.

I'm ever grateful for God's greatest Gift, as well as time spent with family and friends this Christmas season. How abundantly we are blessed!

questions for the man in red

Grace (almost 6) is asking for help with a last minute letter to Santa this morning.
"Dear Santa, Why do you take our lists if you have no plan to give us what we want?"

Ummm.

more holiday preparations

Somewhere in the middle of our busy day, Alice (8) asked me "Mom, isn't Christmas on the 25th?"
"Yeah," I said.
"Well, how come you're trying to get all this stuff done, now?"
"Umm...so I can enjoy Christmas, and not be worrying about cooking then."
"Oh. Good thinking."
(yeah, I thought so too,)

Christmas preparations are coming along nicely, and today was another very productive day. I'm grateful to have the older kids home from school. Everyone seems to play together so well, the older ones include the younger ones while playing "school" or "house" or even organizing talent shows. It's just nice having them around. Today John was home as well for his usual "weekend" from work, so I was able to be even that much more productive. I started the morning by putting 5 nice-sized roasts into the oven to cook for the morning. John splurged and bought us all donuts and juice from the grocery for breakfast to celebrate the start of our Christmas break. (Very nice treat!) After breakfast, the older kids helped me to put another layer of paper mache onto the pinata we're making for our family Christmas party. Lunch crept up on us, and then John and Mary were off to preschool. Their teacher was kind enough to schedule a make-up day since their last two were cancelled due to icey roads. It gave them a chance to celebrate and participate in their gift exchange, and other festivities. Once they were off to school, I started shredding the cooled beef for sandwiches. It's our year to host John's family Christmas. We have the hall booked, and instead of ordering premade shredded beef, I thought I'd try a friend's recipe and make my own. It turned out wonderfully!!! And so simple. Why did I not ever try this sooner? After dishes and kitchen clean-up, I managed a shower for the day. (The kids were starting to wonder if I'd ever get cleaned up.) Then it was back to the kitchen for more holiday treat-making. This time it was Ritz crackers sandwiched with peanut butter, and dipped in white chocolate. Yumm. These are one of my favorites.
After supper, I made one final trip out to Walmart and Aldi's for groceries and party supplies like plates, napkins, etc. I hope not to be back in either store before the new year! It was just nuts, and someone please tell me why they have 36 check-out lines, with only 5 registers working?!
It was a very busy day, and I'm grateful to hubby for being so patient. This is definitely a team effort. He is so good about helping out and taking over with the kids so that I'm able to get the extra things done once in awhile. I truly am blessed to have him in my life.

On my to-do lists for tomorrow:
cook up a few more roasts, and shred (better too much than not enough)
cook and shred chicken for sandwiches (also for John's family party)
one last treat recipe (a toffee-like bar)
another layer to the pinata
christmas cards to get finished and in the mail (better late than never, right?)
fold laundry (I'm getting behind again...it's clean, just not folded)
double check on kids clothes for Christmas eve mass, iron as needed
begin gift-wrapping? (or maybe not just yet)

St. Joseph, pray for him

Sam came home from church this afternoon wild with excitement. He had just come from practice for the Christmas Eve children's mass. He was chosen for the part of Joseph in the mass, and while it's not a speaking part, he is involved in the processional, and again during the Gospel. Oi! I'm excited for him, and pray he was paying attention!

christmas traditions

We drove over to St. Henry last evening for my mom's family Christmas. She is one of 11 children, who along with all my cousins, and in-laws, and cousins kids, manage to fill up a hall pretty quickly. It's always a nice time, with great food, socializing, and of course Santa. He delivers a gift to every child, who waits in anticipation for their name to be called. My kids were revved up to say the least. One of my older kids, to my dismay was completely ungrateful this year. She got a crafty bracelet kit, that I knew she'd enjoy, but for some reason, she was a real turd about it. I tried to have a talk with her later...you know, about how some kids get nothing at Christmas, etc...but she wouldn't hear it. Of course today she loves it and has been crafting every chance she gets. But, I'm left thinking of her "attitude" and how everyone around her was very aware of her little performance. Geesh, I always thought "beggars can't be choosers," but I guess I was wrong.

Anyway, the evening went on a success, and even little Lucy had the time of her life...walking all over the place! She got new shoes for her birthday earlier this week, and I think it was just what she needed to motivate. Too cute. (and yes, she had shoes before, but I'm not big on putting shoes on little ones before they're walking...seems unnecessary.)

As we drove home after 9, the kids pointed out one farm just outside of St. Henry that had a large lighted star mounted high up on their silo. I got little goosebumps, that for as long as I can remember back to my childhood, we watched for this same star as we drove home from my grandparents every Christmas eve. Little Christmas traditions. For these I'm grateful.

December 17th, 2008

14 years ago today...
I said "I do," and I'd do it all over again! (and I'm pretty certain he would too.)




A Marriage Blessing
We thank you, O God, for the Love You have implanted in our hearts.
May it always inspire us to be kind in our words, considerate of feelings, and concerned for each other's needs and wishes.
Help us to be understanding and forgiving of human weaknesses and failings.
Increase our Faith and Trust in You and may Your Prudence guide our life and love.
Bless our Marriage, O God, with Peace and Happiness, and make our Love Fruitful for Your Glory and our joy both here and in eternity.
Amen.

holiday preparations.

Sorry for infrequent posting, lately. John's home from his weekend shift on Mon, Tues, Weds. so this has allowed me more time to concentrate on Christmas details. My shopping is now finished. (Wooohooo!) Wrapping usually waits till Christmas eve. I don't stress about it, and just plan to do it last minute with John's help while the kiddies are sleeping. I think he enjoys seeing everything before it's torn open too.
I've also been busy in the kitchen making all the favorite Christmas treats. I try to make several batches of everything, to share with friends, etc. So far, I've finished Peanut Butter cups, M&M cookies, Brownie bites with Reeses cups, Pretzel Hugs, and a huge batch of "Puppy Chow." I've got a few more recipes to complete before the week's up, but I'm pleased to have so much done at this point. Alice and Emma and I went shopping last night for some new dresses. They have a Christmas concert at church as well as a Childrens mass, and a wedding in early February, so they'll get some wear out of them. They have such completely different taste in clothes, so it's fun to see what they're willing to try on. I was completely shocked (and a little excited) to come home with matching dresses. They chose them together and agreed immediately. They haven't dressed alike in years. The trip was a success and I look forward to not being in a mall again for a long, long time!
Now if only we could see a little of the white stuff on the ground...

angels among us?

At the breakfast table yesterday morning, Mary (4) commented to Charlie (3) "Charlie, you know you have an angel sitting next to you right now."
I happen to sit on Charlie's left, and caught his sideways, disbelieving glance in my direction as he followed with "That ain't no angel!"
(What, did the bed head and flannel jammies give me away?!)

Mary went on to try to explain about guardian angels, and I tried to help her, but the image in his head must have been blown, as he continued to glance at his disheveled mom and argue, "She's NOT an angel!"

(sigh) Even my kids know the truth about me.

celebrating St. Lucy

The braided bread turned out absolutely delightful!!! This was my first effort at baking "real" bread...you know with kneading, and rising, and punching down the dough. Alice and Emma each took turns with kneading and had great fun!

...and this was the closest we came to little girls parading with wreaths of "lit" candles on their heads. (as apparently is customary in Sweden?)

St. Lucy, feast day

St. Lucy (Lucia) whose name means light, bacame part of our Advent tradition last year. We offered up many prayers of intercession for the safe delivery and health of our own little Lucy (her namesake) who turns one this Dec 18th.

This year we're going to attempt a traditional St. Lucia bread. We'll see how that goes.

a prayer from Catholic Online:
Saint Lucy, you did not hide your light under a basket, but let it shine for the whole world, for all the centuries to see. We may not suffer torture in our lives the way you did, but we are still called to let the light of our Christianity illumine our daily lives. Please help us to have the courage to bring our Christianity into our work, our recreation, our relationships, our conversation -- every corner of our day. Amen

if you like brocolli...

I made the most wonderful (super-easy!!) Brocolli Cheese Soup yesterday, thanks to a recipe I found over at Kathryn's Kitchen. Tonight, I turned the leftovers into a wonderful chicken bake for supper. In a 9x13 I layered cooked white rice, then chicken breasts, poured the leftover soup on top of that, and finished with some dry stuffing (bread crumbs) for crunch. Baked for an hour, and voila...wonderful.

more holiday (curses) spirit!

Nothing says "Joy to the world!" like black smoke billowing out of an oven. Oh, I've had burnt items on the bottom of the oven before, but this was the real deal...black billowing smoke, that had the kids wondering if they should laugh or cry. I was crying, of course, from the smoke burning my retinas. In my first baking effort of the season, attempting chocolate chip bar cookies (with little red and green M&M's), the mix rose over the edges of the pan and proceeded to drip all over the floor of the oven. I think it was the M&M candies that really added to the smoke. I found myself reaching in, scraping the hardened goo off with a spatula, as the cookies continued to bake and splatter. Nothing like having to open every window and door in the house when it's 32 degrees outside.

Anyhow, by dinner time the house was nearly emptied of the smokey haze, which returned when I preheated the oven to bake the chicken breasts. On a side note, the cookies turned out perfectly!!! I cut them into 1 inch (bitesize) squares and placed them prompltly in the freezer, hoping they'll last to see the likes of the jolliest elf.

Cheers!

The holiday spirit...

I'm finally starting to feel that excited anticipation for Christmas around here. The kids have been feeling it since the stockings went up...but it's taken me a bit longer. I just kept looking at my list of shopping, baking, school exchange gifts, decorating, party planning...and I was just not in the mood. But something's come over me, and starting today, I've got the fever. The younger kids and I started our day by cleaning out the basement toy room. Our intention when we started was to clean up, then sort out and part with our gently used toys to be donated to a nearby Women's domestic violence shelter. It was just the motivation we needed and Grace, Mary and John and I got the job done in less than an hour. And while we cleaned up, and tossed many broken, neglected toys, "gently used" is unfortunately not in our vocabulary. We did not have anything worthy of donating this time. (Our cleaning sweep mid-summer though, sent many nice things to Agape, so perhaps next round).

Anyhow, from basement, we moved on to more holiday decorating. I finally got our large nativity set out and Mary helped me to arrange it "just so" on the pie safe in the kitchen. We added a few small Christmas trees with lights surrounding it, and it looks beautiful. This evening, the boys kept turning the kitchen lights out just to stare at it in wonder.

During afternoon naptime (while the older ones were at school) I added more lights outdoors. This time decorating the back porch, and stringing one tree full of lights. I always like adding something out back that's "just ours" to enjoy. The tree I decorated is the one that has several bird feeders hanging in it..visible from our kitchen window for bird-watching. I got a kick out of the black-capped chickadee who kept calling to me as I strung lights. I'm not sure if he was as excited about the decorations, or just wanted his supper perch back. He was good company, none the less. The kids excitement as they all gathered home after school was priceless as they checked out the new lights and decor. I get such joy doing these silly little things, knowing how much they find pleasure in it.

By evening, John got the big star hanging outside above our lighted yard nativity. The lights had burnt out after last season, so it needed completely restrung. (God's always providing us with exercises to grow in patience. Thank you Lord.) It looks beautiful, I think. The four oldest kids got out for an evening of Christmas movies at our Parish Center. So they came home all giddy and talkative about the movies, meeting Santa, etc. Seems as though we're all getting anxious.

Anyhow, tomorrow's another day and I'm hoping to get the baking "bug." I love trying new recipes every year, and I've got a couple yummies up my sleeve for this Christmas. Bring on the chocolate!
Peaceful night all!

reminiscing about St. Nick

Meant to post over the weekend...just didn't get around to it. Anyhow, was thinking back this morning to St. Nick's feast day (Saturday) and what a nice day it was here. Other than the fact that the kids were up before 7a checking stockings. But fortunately, they let Lucy and I sleep in just a bit longer. Although when I got up a little closer to the 8 o'clock mark, I'd wished I would have joined them earlier. Most of their chocolates were gone, the orange slices (though there were only a handful) now gone, and they were working on the shelled peanuts. Who needs breakfast?!

Later that morning, the older kids organized a "gift exchange" for all the kids. (I should mention that we don't typically draw names or exchange gifts in this house, so it was cute that they came up with it...and with such organized formality.) Alice and Emma helped everyone to draw a name, and then helped them to "shop" from the toys in the basement. They were incredibly thoughtful about it...choosing favorite toys that they knew the recipient would love, then wrapping them with plastic grocery bags. Their efforts culminated under the tree where each child patiently waited to give. It was priceless. Charlie got his favorite plastic wrench from Rose, Sam recieved his favorite black high tops that Alice remembered "He wears everyday, so I know he'll love them!" (and he did.)

Moments like these, when everyone cooperates with such generosity, is one of the greatest graces I receive. Thank you Lord for everyday blessings!

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

Surely I'm not the only person in this world who spent the majority of my life confused about this feast day. It wasn't until recent years (embarassingly enough) that I realized we were talking about our Blessed Mother, conceived without the stain of original sin.

Oh Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. Amen.

children's thoughts on "sisterhood"

Grace (5) and Emma (8) were conversing over breakfast this morning about marriage verses the single life. I somehow missed how the conversation started, but the ending went something like this...

Emma: "No Grace. Like, Fr. Rick, he's single!"
Grace: "Oh, I thought he was married."
Emma: "No. Since you're a girl, you'll either get married, or be single. And if you're single you can be a nun." (pause) "Nun's pray a lot!"
Grace: (making the sign of the cross) "Dear God please send me a husband."


I nearly snorted milk out of my nose, and had to calm myself to explain to John what he'd just missed. Where do they come up with this stuff?!

and the ultrasound shows....

...ONE healthy tiny miracle!

I never cease to be amazed at the perfect miracle of God's handiwork growing in the womb! This 9 week old life inside me with a beating heart, tiny arms and legs...it's just beyond belief. I'm so grateful and humbled to be entrusted once again with this beautiful gift of motherhood. My estimated due date is July 6th. I continue to experience morning sickness (most of the day) and coma-like fatigue, but I keep reminding myself that this means baby is healthy and growing...and if all goes as before, the magic 3 month mark means freedom from these nagging symptoms. (somewhere just into the new year.)

Hope to have a widget up on the blog soon, to track new baby's development, as we count down the days.

Thanks for all the prayers. God Bless!

on the feast of St. Nicholas

God of joy and cheer,

we thank you for your servant,the good bishop Nicholas.

In loving the poor, he showed us your kindness;

in caring for your children, he revealed your love.

Make us thoughtful without need of reward

so that we, too, may be good followers of Jesus.

From All Through the Day, All Through the Year: Family Prayers and Celebrations, by David B. Batchelder

Sam's First Reconciliation day

"I tell you that in the same way, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance." Luke 15: 7

Our Sam celebrated the sacrament of Reconciliation this evening. With much nervous anticipation, he escaped to his room just prior for a "thorough" examination of conscience, and made notes of the sins he'd committed. He did not wish for John or I to read them, but assured us, he wrote "4 or 5 good ones," and used "complete sentences" to boot. I have to admit, my heart skipped a beat when he took those steps into the confessional for the first time. Flashbacks to his Baptism, and the promises we made to raise him to know Christ were coming to fruition now. I said a prayer of blessing for him, and the 60-some children joining him this evening. That they grow to love this sacrament, and share in it often, that they may remain close to Jesus, as He so wants us all to be. God Bless Sam!

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus!

I got the dreaded question today. Surprisingly though, not from one of my own children, but one of the kids in my 2nd grade religion class. It caught me completely off guard, as I had just asked for questions relating to their First Reconcilation tomorrow night. Out of nowhere, one sharp little student took the opportunity to ask what was apparently hot on her mind. "Mrs. Schmiesing, is Santa Claus real?" (panic, cringe) I realized that I was so unprepared for this question, or for when my own kids might spring it on me.
I dodged the bullet by responding as simply as I could. "Yes, the spirit of Santa Claus is VERY real!" "You should ask your parents so tonight." ...and then "any questions about First Reconciliation?!" (Please!)

'spose it would be wise for me to visit the confessional tomorrow as well.

boys, beds, blankets, and battles

At 2 in the morning, I tend to lose my sense of humor. So what started as a cute little episode between brothers, soon had me seeing red. It went something like this:
2am: Frank comes sliding in under the covers of my bed with frigid little hands and feet. Poor boy had probably been without blankets for some time. I scooped him up and brought him back to his own bed and tucked him in tight. I had to gently tug the covers away from his big brother Charlie, who was apparently hoarding them.
2:05 am: Charlie's at my bedside now, crying. "Mom! Frank stole all the blankets!" Arrg. I scoop him up, and carry him back to his own bed where sure enough I find Frank with their full-size comforter rolled into a ball and holding on tight on his side of the bed. I give them both a little reminder about sharing, spread out the blankets again, and back to bed I go.
2:10am: Frank's back and crying this time. More blanket stealing going on. More reminders about sharing.
2:13am: Frank's back again. Crying louder and with a different tone now...you know the kind...the "I've just been punched in the head for no reason" cry. Another return to his bed...more talk of sharing, couple of kisses. (Did I mention little John's sleeping like a king across the room alone in his bed?!)
2:20: Charlie's turn to cry again. Alright boys...mom's losing it. Time to share...time to sleep!!!! The threats begin...I think I may have mentioned stapling them to the sheets. I was tired, and cranky...and losing patience to say the least. Not my finest hour.

Anyhow...they did manage to fall back asleep with only a couple more visits to my room.
Can you believe that Charlie mentioned at breakfast that he didn't sleep well?! Arrg. Praying that tonight's a better, more peaceful night. Loving husband John suggested I could always pin one corner of the blanket to each of their pajamas. Funny. He obviously didn't hear a thing last night.

Frank's big day

He's growing up right before my very eyes, and I get a little misty-eyed just thinking about it. Today, Frank left the crib behind to move into the "big" double bed with brother Charlie. For about a week now he's been climbing out of his crib, so to prevent injury, it's time to move on. This means young John officially moved up to a bed of his own...no longer sharing, but sleeping in his own twin-size bed. Oh my. It created a little chaos at bedtime. Charlie seemed to take it the worst, not certain he liked sharing his bed with someone new. But Frank and John were quite pleased with their new nests, and were sleeping like kings when I peaked in.
Funny...as I put Frank's twin Rosie to bed (still in her crib in the girls room) she seemed a bit miffed that she's still a "baby." She pointed to her crib and shrugged with a "what the heck's up with this?!" kinda look. I promised her she'd be moving into a "big" bed soon too. For now though, she stays put. It's nice knowing where I'll find her in the morning.

survived black friday

Whew. What a day that was. It's a darn good thing I spent all day Thursday "bulking up," in order to survive the marathon at the malls on Friday. I'll admit it...I love being out there in the thick of it on Black Friday. I'm not one of the 4am "door busters" but I think I've only missed once in the last 10 years or so. My sisters-in-law and I take off for the day around 7:30 am, and it's rare to be home before midnight. The last few years I've driven our 15 passenger van with the back bench removed...and we manage to pack that baby full, stocking up for the holidays. 6 women on a mission to get as much checked off our lists as possible. There were a few years I completed all my shopping in that one day. Not this year. I just wasn't as prepared with ideas as I could have been. But the day was a success, no less. Good company, good food, a few good bargains. Good times!



Needless to say, I'm "hung over" of sorts today. With first trimester fatigue/nausea and an 18 hour shopping spree under my belt, I feel drained of any energy. We did manage to start a little holiday decorating though, bringing out some snowmen, a small tree, the advent wreath, and advent calendar. It's beginning to look a bit like Christmas!

A blessed thanksgiving to you all!

Thank you, God, for everything

Thank you, God, for everything,
The big things and the small.
For "every good gift comes from God"...
The giver of them all.
And all too often we accept, without any thanks or praise,
The gifts God sends as blessings, each day in many ways.
And so at this Thanksgiving Time, we offer up a prayer...
To thank you, God, for giving us a lot more than our share.

First, thank you for the little things
That often come our way,
The things we take for granted
But don't mention when we pray,
The unexpected courtesy, the thoughtful, kindly deed,
A hand reached out to help us in the time of sudden need.
Oh, make us more aware, dear God, of little daily graces
That come to us with "sweet surprise"
From never-dreamed-of places.

Then, thank you for the "Miracles"
We are much too blind to see,
And give us new awareness of our many gifts from Thee,
And help us to remember that the Key of Life and Living
Is to make each prayer a Prayer of Thanks
And every day Thanksgiving
--Helen Steiner Rice

family ties...or knots?

On the same subject I last posted...I found myself in another puzzler today, this time involving John's side of the family. We attended the funeral mass for his Aunt Clara this morning. When discussing before-hand, her children's names, late husband, etc. I mentioned to John "Now this is your Dad's sister-in-law right?" His reply..."Yes, and his aunt." And so the untangling of family ties began.

Turns out (and this is not the only example within his family) that John's uncle (on his dad's side) Eddie married Clara who also happens to be John's great aunt (on his mom's side.) It was nice though, seeing both sides of John's family tree at church.

I mentioned this happens more than once in his family...another example, John's aunt Edna (his dad's sister) married John's great uncle (from mom's side.) Clear as mud, right? I just ask John to remind me from time to time, who's who, and how we're related.

ps...if I messed this up (family) feel free to let me know.

I know I'm getting older when...

John and I were having a discussion about someone we prayed for in church...not quite sure who the person was. Which led to...who were her siblings?...or was that her cousin?...and her parents were "so and so"...oh, no I think she belonged to "so and so." We had to call John's sister to settle things. She was closer in age, and knew the circle of folks better. We both laughed when the conversation was over. It sounded like one of a million of the same we'd had with our mothers who were always quick to remind us how we were related to "so and so" in some way. And would then proceed to map it all out for us. I remember dreading those conversations, not paying as close attention as I should have...and now I'm at the heart of them. Oi.

O-H, I-O

So, we may not be the Buckeyes' biggest fans. But there's strength in numbers, and at this house we believe OSU-Michigan game should be on the liturgical calendar...or at least a Hallmark Holiday. At any rate, it's cause for anticipation, reflux-ation (from all the good eats) and hopefully celebration! We have the game on at our house...and we're primed for a win!

Go Bucks!!!

on feeding the masses...

I made chex mix 2 days ago. 4 batches to be exact. (that's nearly 4 boxes of cereal, plus all the extras.) This evening, it sounded like a good snack, but hmmmm...funny, there's just a handful left. I'll just grab the other bag out of the freezer, right?! Nope. All gone. Turns out all the kids (and their dad) LOVE the stuff. On the up side, I'm thinking there should be no issues with irregularity in the house these next couple days, anyhow.

on faith, and family

It occured to me, as I was driving home from work today, that it seems necessary for me to share a few thoughts on our big family. More importantly I guess, to share that trusting in God's plan, has not always been easy for me.
I'll start at the beginning, by remembering that having children, at first, did not come easy at all. John and I both had our share of infertility issues, and after procedures, surgeries, and even unsuccessful attempts at artificial insemination (at that time I couldn't begin to understand the Catholic church's stance on these issues), I finally prayed...really prayed, and released my pain to God. I begged him to just take over, and help me to deal with whatever He wanted for us. Perhaps I wasn't meant to be a mother afterall. I just wanted Him to lead, and to help me heal (and deal). Within a month I was pregnant with our twin daughters. I understand now, I just needed to allow Him to lead. After our fourth child was born, a new anxiety was taking over me. This time, I wanted to control again, my plan for our family. I felt overwhelmed with 4 children in just 3 years. I turned to contraception and prayed fiercely to the Blessed Mother. I'm ever grateful for her intercession. I felt horrible on the pill, so stopped it and was soon pregnant with our second set of twins. In that time, I learned even more to trust in the Lord. His plans are far greater than we can imagine for ourselves. And time and time again, He's helped us to realize that He will provide for us. There continue to be times when I question that we're doing what is "right." There are so many people who are quick to ask "How will you pay for college?" or "Where will they all sleep?" I just have faith, and pray. I've come to realize that as a mother, I'm building a cathedral here... the work I commit to raising our children may never be realized or fully appreciated in my lifetime. But I'm laying the foundation for something beautiful and magnificent to come, I hope.
Truth be told, I could never have imagined this life for myself. I couldn't have in my wildest dreams. I wasn't born or raised with any greater knowledge than anyone else about raising a large family. I had just two brothers. But as I grow in faith of our Father who loves us, I know more each day..."he does not call the equipped, rather he equips the called." It's difficult to move beyond the fear, but so necessary to grow closer to Him.

God Bless!

some real news...

okay, today I've got news. I'd hoped to wait a little longer to share, but the kids now know, so everyone is finding out quickly!

Jamie's perfect 10 is soon to be 11!

We're thrilled to announce that we're expecting another little miracle (sometime in July).

I'm a little more tired than usual, but otherwise feeling great!

Pray for us as we grow.

love,
jamie & john

help! (bak, bak!)

As I sit here googling good recipes for roasted chicken, I figure, why not ask for a tried and true recipe from someone who knows...
so. What are you waiting for? Please send me your (simple) delicious oven roasted chicken recipe. I'm thinking of doing up a pan of legs, since this is the kids favorites. You can post as a comment, or e-mail me if you'd rather. Thanks.

schmiesings playdoh fun factory...

It's rare that any toy, craft or game can hold the attention of everyone for any length of time. Playdoh though...it rocks! I happened across 4 new cans today, probably stashed away from Easter baskets, and forgotten. It was like finding lost treasure. 9 of the kids circled the kitchen table to pound, roll, squish and create until the cows came home. (Lucy and I enjoyed a few minutes of quiet...priceless!)

Nothing new...

I haven't been writing much lately. It seems that even in the grocery store line, when someone asks "What's new?" I stumble for an answer. Truth is, many days feel just like the day before. And with cold weather setting in, and all of our time being spent indoors, it feels even more so. As I struggled for something "inspiring" to write about tonight, it occured to me to mention the little details of our day. Perhaps not inspiring, but grace-filled none the less. I'll start by mentioning that on Saturdays, there are no alarm clocks in this house. (Except for John who leaves for work very early...before my brain can hear, let alone respond to an alarm.) Anyways, I awoke to the sound of boys tip-toeing down the hallway, sneaking into my room, and climbing in under the covers to snuggle just a bit before the others wake up. God Bless John and Charlie. It doesn't take Lucy long to stir in her crib, next to my bed. She doesn't cry though, just giggles and begins bouncing in her bed to get my attention. I quickly pull her into my bed also. Frank's awake now, and hollering to get out of his crib. Unfortunately Sam is ignoring him, so up we go to retrieve Frank, and 5 of us snuggle onto the couch. It's a great way to wake in the morning. I strongly recommend this slower pace if you're able.
Did I mention it snowed here today?! Our first snowfall of the season. Big wet beautiful flakes, that even managed to accumulate on rooftops, and over grass, before melting away in the rain later. The snow lasted most of the afternoon, which prompted us to move furniture. Our couch always sits in front of the big picture window in the living room, and rather than have the kids sitting on the back of the couch all day, we opted instead to move furniture. Have you ever tried moving couches with a baby, 2 toddlers and a handful of other pint-size helpers? It's a challenge to say the least. But it was so worth it to see them lined up in the window all afternoon just watching the snow fall. Beautiful!! (naturally, my camera batteries are dead, and Sam just put the last 8 or so into his remote control monster truck. Drats!)
The day was even more special in that we attended church as a family (or at least the majority of us.) The babies went to grandmas as usual, but John made it home from work early, and was able to join us to hear Alice and Emma singing in the childrens choir at 5 o'clock mass. I had forgotten how nice it is to have him in the pew with us. I so look forward to a time when his schedule might change that he can join us every Sunday.
I am grateful for simple blessings in my life...for days when "nothing new" means "all is good."
Peace!

the birds are back in town...

Within 24 hours after hanging the feeders in the tree for the winter...the birds are back. Already we've been graced by the presence of 2 blue jays, a downy woodpecker, a nuthatch, a few finches, and a handful of juncos. As if we've nothing better to do, we manage to drop everything and birdwatch when a new one appears. It's like welcoming back old friends, and a sure reminder that winter's moving in.

A couple Christmases back, the kids helped me to pick out a nice birdfeeder for John from Lowes, and a book we ordered online about birds native to Ohio. It took us no time at all to move the book and a pair of binoculars to the cupboard nearest the kitchen window, for quick access. The flagged, dog-eared pages are more like a family album now, as we thumb through to see who's back, and who's yet to return as the weather gets colder, and food more scarce. It's been a wonderful source of entertainment for the kids of all ages in our home, and several of the kids have brought the book in for show-and-tell, to share some of what they've learned from keeping company with the birds in our own backyard.

Good Saint Francis, patron of animals: Help us to follow your example of treating every living thing with kindness. Amen.

pizza for lunch...

LUCY LIKES!!

Spread love everywhere you go: first of all in your own house. Give love to your children, to your wife or husband, to a next door neighbor... Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God's kindness; kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile, kindness in your warm greeting. ~Mother Teresa

family movie night

Just for something different...
We moved the coffee table out, brought in bed pillows and spread out blankets for a special feature "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." Lucy thought it was gymboree time, and little Rose, struggling to find the perfect spot, spent most of the movie hauling around a pillow twice her size, falling over bodies. She finally settled in on the couch with mom. Just in time for the movie to end, and bed time to begin.
...Who needs a big screen?

a family favorite

With the holidays fast approaching, I'm so grateful to my Aunt Betty for e-mailing her one-of-a-kind fruitcake recipe. I think I may give this one a try some evening (after I get the kiddies off to bed, of course!)

Enjoy!

Betty's Fruitcake

1 cup flour
1 cup water
1 cup sugar
4 large eggs
2 cups dried fruit
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup brown sugar
lemon juice
nuts
1 gallon good whiskey

Sample the whiskey to check for quality. Take a large dring of the whiskey again
to be sure it is of the highest quality. Fill cup and drink again. Repeat. Turn on electric mixer. Beat one egg in a large fluffy bowl. Add 1 teaspoon sugar and beat again. Make sure wiskey is still okay. Cry another tup. Turn off mixer. Break 2 legs into the bowl and chcuk in the cup of dried fruit. Mix on the table. If fried fruit gets stuck in the
beaters, pry loose with a screwdriver. Taste the wisky to check for tonsisticity. Next sift two cups of something. Who cares? Check the wisky. Now sift the lemon Juice over your nuts. Add one table. Spoon. Of sugar, or something. Whatever. Grease the oven. Turn the cake tin to 350 degrees. Don't forget to set the tuner. Throw the bowl out the window. Check the wisky. Gotobed. Who the hell likes gruitcake any ways???
Have a Merry Christmas, Ya'll.

Veterans Day Prayer

to honor my dad, my father-in-law, brothers, in-laws, and friends who so proudly served...

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the selfless service of those who gave their lives to protect our nation, preserve our freedoms, and restore peace in the face of brutal aggressors. Grant relief to those who continue to experience emotional or physical agony from their days of combat. Give us a sense of responsibility for their welfare. Comfort those who mourn for loved ones who died while performing their duty to our country. Enlist all who are in our military forces into your church militant, that they may pledge eternal loyalty to Christ, our King, and know his peace. Amen

everybody clap your hands!

Here's what we're moving to at our house. It's a beat that makes everyone drop what they're doing and start moving to the lyrics...even Lucy. 12 bodies packed around the computer, getting "funky!"

Enjoy.

More phone-time funnies...

Little John embarassed his Dad something terrible today. The phone rang, and 4 year old John was the first one there. "Hello Shmeeshingsh!" (pause) followed by (quite loudly) "Dad! It's your girlfriend!"
Dad quickly answers the phone to the roaring laughter of our parish secretary, calling to see if he would be able to drive bus today for the religious ed. students. I think it made her day, and mine to see my husband turn 10 different shades of red in embarassment!

perseverance pays off

It can be tricky to get those sticky marshmallows from the bottom of the hot chocolate mug, but as Charlie shows, "Where there's a will, there's a way!"

...from the trenches

Sorry for the silence. The same fever and cold symptoms the kids were passing around earlier this week has hit their mom with a vengeance. I felt grateful that there was no school yesterday or today so that I had the older kids home to help. Yesterday we had a fun day at Coldwater park, despite the cough and sniffles. We picniced with some friends and made the best of the last warm day for awhile. Today I was feeling even worse, so Alice and Emma walked John and Mary to preschool (which is just around the corner,) and all the kids played outside most of the day. Lucy seemed especially happy today (now that she can breathe through her nose again.) It was nice that she wasn't as clingy as she's been the last few days. Not that I minded it then, but with fever and cough, I just wasn't in a snuggly mood. Anyhow, we still managed some fun crafts this afternoon, and I made comfort food for supper...homemade pancakes with lots of butter and syrup. I'm feeling slightly better already this evening...except for the cough, and my "rudolph" red nose. Praying tomorrow we're all feeling much better.
It's a busy day on Saturday with a bridal shower for my neice, and dinner out with my parents & my brother Joe and his wife to celebrate my dad's 60th birthday. (no kids!) I'll find a way to feel better for that, no doubt...it's been a loooong time since we've been out on a date. We're overdue!
Blessed weekend to all!

a few thoughts on the election

I watched the election returns with optimism last night, certain that there was a good chance that polls could be wrong, and that John McCain would in fact be the next president of our great nation. Unfortunately, that just wasn't the case. I was moved to tears and in complete disbelief when Senator McCain gave his concession speach. I'm certain I could never have been so gracious.
As I finally pulled my defeated self to bed, the words "healing" kept coming to mind. I considered the reactions I'd seen on tv to the election of our first black president. Words spoken such as "historic" and "I never imagined I'd live to see the day!" Words from people who'd lived through segregation and race riots, and horrors I could never begin to imagine. I realized how blessed, indifferent and perhaps ignorant I was to have never lived through those times. Never, did the thought occur to me to vote (or not vote) for him because of the color of his skin. I saw grown men and women weeping at the sight of a black man holding the highest office of our country. And as I lay in bed praying for the future of our nation, again the words "healing" kept coming to my mind. Perhaps while our future is uncertain, a part of our past may heal because of the election of this new president. While I am apprehensive of where he may lead us, I'm more aware that God is always providing opportunities for his Goodness to be revealed. I pray that many may experience healing through the renewed hope provided that anyone can do anything they put their mind to here in America, regardless of religion, economic status, or color of their skin.
God be with us, bless us and help this nation to heal. May the sacredness of all life be preserved. Be with our new President and allow him to be guided by your Holy Spirit. Amen.

behind every good man...

As we were cleaning up the kitchen after supper tonight, John mentioned that I should write down all the dosage intructions for Tylenol, Motrin, etc. for our four youngest who've been running fevers, in case they need anything while I'm at work tomorrow. (It's already written in the medicine cabinet, so I told him to just call me at work with any questions.) He went on to say that he told some young coworkers recently that they "should meet a good woman who happens to be a nurse, so they won't have to worry about what to do with sick kids." He said he was going to teach his boys the same thing some day. I gave him a sideways glance as I continued sweeping the floor, and suggested it might be better to teach his sons to think for themselves, so that they would know how to dose their kids with tylenol while their wives are at work. (hint, hint) Encourage self-sufficiency and all. He laughed, "Nah, they'll have a good parish secretary to do their thinking for them." (alluding to the idea that they'll be called to a priestly vocation someday.)
He went on to jab that perhaps a certain priest's blog that I read frequently isn't even really written by said priest, but just his genious secretary in disguise. "Blog about that!" he laughed. And so I did.

just in the nick of time...

It's cold and flu season again, and anyone with children knows what a hassle it is to check the temperature of a screaming, feverish baby at 4 in the morning. Multiply that time 5 or 6 (or more) sick kids, and it's enough to drive a mom mad!
I found this thermometer at Walmart this week, just in time for 4 of the kids to be passing around fevers and cold symptoms. It's already worth it's weight in gold, and certainly worth the $35. it cost at Walmart. (There's even a $5 rebate right now on the Exergen web site.) Just a quick pass across the forehead, and voila instant, accurate temperature! Woohoo.

feast of St. Charles Borromeo, Nov. 4th

Prayer to St. Charles, patron of catechists.

O Saintly reformer, animator of spiritual renewal of priests and religious, you organized true seminaries and wrote a standard catechism. Inspire all religious teachers and authors of catechetical books. Move them to love and transmit only that which can form true followers of the Teacher who was divine. Amen.

...and patron of our own little saint charles born 7-27-05...pray for us!

busy monday

Hello all. I'm feeling too exhausted tonight to be clever with words, so I'll just share a little of our hectic day...
7am: up and at 'em. We're out of cereal, so it's scrambled eggs, toast and juice for all. 3 oldest off to school
spent the morning folding laundry, bathing babies, and munching on halloween candy. (oh, and coffee.)
John mowed the grass, and raked some leaves with the help of the boys.
Homemade pizza for lunch, kitchen cleanup. 3 more out the door for afternoon school.
I did some quick shopping at Walmart and Aldi's for groceries, and a bridal shower gift. Made it home in time to unload and pick up 2 from preschool.
Grace came home from school in tears because she'd left her homework papers in her desk, so Alice and Emma were kind enough to walk back with her. (grateful for tiny graces.)
After homework, we packed a picnic for the park to enjoy one more unseasonably warm evening. It was wonderful!
7:00 Rosary for the elections. John and I and the 6 oldest went. It was the coolest. We prayed for all the souls of each of the 50 states. One for each Hail Mary. Patriotic singing...it was all beautiful, and the kids did very well through it.
7:45 John headed home with the kids and I went on to our WhyCatholic small group meeting. Very nice conversation, and spiritually uplifting as usual.
9:00-10:00 spent an hour at Adoration, praying for conversion of souls, for the elections, for our priests and vocations, and much more. How quickly that hour went! Wonderful.
Came home and sampled some of mom's homemade black bean salsa. Delicious!! (I need that recipe.)
Attempted to clear some papers and mail off of the kitchen cupboard, loaded the dishwasher, and now, finally calling it a day...tomorrow's another day.

A thought on Psalm 34 (from the song "Taste and See")
I will bless the Lord at all times. Praise shall always be on my lips. My soul shall glory in the Lord, for He has been so good to me.

tomorrow's the day...

...have you considered prayerfully, the upcoming election? It's not too late.

Lord, as the November Election draws near we ask
That the same hands lifted up to You in prayer
Are the hands that mark the ballot in the voting booth;
That the same eyes that read Your Word
Are the eyes that read the names and issues on the ballot,
And that they do not cease to be Christians
When they enter the voting booth.

We ask this through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Amen.

A Song of the Saints

thought this was too cute...had to share.

Saturday: Cleaning Day. NOT!

November 1st and temps were in the upper 60's today. Who woulda' thought?! In light of the unseasonably warm weather, we skipped all cleaning for the day. (Woohoo!! confetti, streamers, crowds cheering.) Well, sorta. (letdown)
The kids and I spent the day outdoors cleaning the garage and shed. I actually enjoyed it immensely. My husband is a packrat to his core, and when I ask him to throw something out, it inevitably ends up in the shed with the thought that he'll find another use for it later. It makes me crazy!!! Anyhow, with him at work today, I got busy. The kids were great help, most of the time. And when they weren't helping, they were playing together which is just as helpful. We unloaded the garage first, sorting through broken squirt guns and other summer toys that needed to be tossed. We hung up a few bikes, sorted through balls and bats, and every imagineable outdoor plaything. We paired up skates, lined up scooters. It was wonderful.
After lunch we tackled the shed. It required more effort on my part, as this is where John keeps all of his recycleables (aka: junk). After stacking lumber, throwing away broken christmas decorations from last season, putting a few tools away, and cleaning up a bit, it was time to start pitching. I found a broken quilt rack that I asked him to pitch 2 years ago. It's still broken, and still useless. (Lord, help me!) It took me no time to fill a few garbage cans, and soon I found room for the patio table and chairs, and the bench and rocker from the front porch. It's all organized with the snow blower shifted to the front for easy access. (Hopefully, this will mean we won't need it too much.)
Anyhow, it was a wonderfully productive day. And we ended it by watching the Minster HS girls cross country team parade through town on firetrucks as the new Div III State Champions. Woohoo! We joined them at the high school for a welcome home pep rally. Two of our neices ran today, and we're sooo proud of them. Way to go Lei and Averie! I think they're amazing!
Have a peaceful weekend everyone. A blessed All Saints Day to all.