kodak moment

Unfortunately I didn't have my camera with me, so I'll have to try to paint the picture for you. As I was coming down the sidewalk toward home this morning around 9, just finishing my morning jog/walk, I was greeted by the sweetest sight. 2 year olds Frank and Rose were out front playing (boy do we love small town living). Rosie dressed all in hotpink, sweatpants and matching hoodie with the hood up, and Frank all in blue. They were moving slowly down the sidewalk side by side. Frank was pulling his little red wagon behind him as Rosie struggled on her big sister's pink Barbie scooter. It was adorable, and I could only imagine the conversation the two might have been sharing (had they been able to speak in more than two word sentences.) They continued on together up the driveway and to the back yard where the big kids were playing, and then went their seperate ways. I can't imagine life without those two.
Thank you God for this beautiful spring-like weather, and the gift of children to enjoy it.

Spring has sprung!

(Or at least bounced for a bit!)

I think it's safe to say everyones heads hit the pillows hard last night. We were teased with a bit of spring weather yesterday, so we took full advantage of it. After school and homework, we headed outdoors. It took only seconds for all the neighbor kids to converge in our driveway, which is how I love it. There were enough kids to have games going in every corner of the yard...from jumping rope, basketball, scootering, kids playing in the fort. I love it!
After supper, we all walked to the school park for the last 45 minutes before dark crept in. The kids all played so well. There were no other kids there for the older ones to pair up with, so it was nice to see my older ones helping the little ones try the monkey bars, or climb up high to the "swirly slide." This was Lucy's first real park adventure, as last year she spent most of her summer in a stroller or carrier, oblivious. She LOVED the slide! It made me a little sad to realize that there would be no baby in my arms, or stroller to push around all summer. My kids are growing up, and wanting to do things independently. It's bittersweet. I long for the tiny baby stage, and yet it's liberating to be able to just grab a wagon for the toddlers and take off. And now I'm hands free to join in on the fun. (I loved the slide too.)
Anyhow, after showers the girls voted for a pedicure night. Alice got a foot bath for Christmas and some peidicure supplies for all the girls. I had an older foot bath as well, so we filled them both, and took turns treating each other to a little pampering. Sam was off to his Catholic Boys club meeting, so even the young boys enjoyed the attention, and soaking in a warm foot bath. After everyone was duly pampered and relaxed, we settled in with some library books, and rounded out the night with the Stations of the Cross, with the help of some simple homemade Station booklets Sam and I made in religion class. (I'll try to get the link for the printable accordion-fold booklets...very cute and simple)
It was a truly enjoyable evening. I'm looking forward to warmer weather coming and making itself at home for awhile.

(I wish I could say my night ended at 9 too, but that's when I pour another cup of coffee, and am just getting warmed up. I managed time for my prayers and Lenten reflections, a little computer time, chatted briefly with mom on the phone, scrubbed the kitchen floor, ran the dishwasher, folded 4 loads of laundry, picked up a few toys in the basement...and shoes someone would be looking for desperately come morning, and finally fell into bed around 12:30 with my rosary. John woke me when he got home at 1:30 and I was still gripping the second decade tightly. Didn't quite get through it, but hoping the Blessed Mother understands...)

taking things literally

John helped young Charlie choose his clothes and get dressed this morning. A few minutes later Charlie lifted up his sweatshirt and asked me to feel his belly. "Is it sweaty yet mom?" I did as asked, with a puzzled look on my face, I'm sure. He continued, "Dad says this is a SWEATshirt, so am I sweating yet?!" Ummm. "Give it some time to work." I replied.

inbox insight

Okay, I'm not really big on e-mail forwards, but this was one I'd not read before, and thought it was too cute not to share. (And I think there's a lesson in there too.)

A young couple moves into a new neighborhood. The next morning while they are eating breakfast, the young woman sees her neighbor hanging the wash outside.
"That laundry is not very clean", she said. "She doesn't know how to wash correctly.
Perhaps she needs better laundry soap" ..
Her husband looked on, but remained silent.
Every time her neighbor would hang her wash to dry, the young woman would make the same comments.
About one month later, the woman was surprised to see a nice clean wash on the line and said to her husband: "Look, she has learned how to wash correctly. I wonder who taught her how?"
The husband said, "I got up early this morning and cleaned our windows."
And so it is with life. What we see when watching others depends on the purity of the window through which we look.
May God always grant that you and I see clearly...
“When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change”

sowing seeds of love

Our next Lenten project idea came from my second grade religion class. It ties in nicely with the Parable of the Sower from Matthew, which we'd talked about in relation to the Liturgy of the Word at Mass.

We decorated flower pots (at home here, we used styrofoam cups) with colorful spring flower designs and the saying "Jesus gives us new life." The kids then filled them with potting soil and grass seed. We're watering them, keeping them in the sunlit window sill, and waiting patiently for the first sign of new growth. Just as we are growing closer to Jesus, nourished by His Holy Word, so do the seeds grow (we hope) carefully tended and nurtured. Our intention (here at home) is to add a few homemade treats to the grass-filled pots and and share them at Easter time. Although the kids have not been able to decide just who to share them with yet. For some reason, I'm thinking we'll be making more pots to accomodate everyone on their list. I hope I have enough windowsill space. Did I mention everyone LOVED this project with lots of dirt to run their fingers through!! (and to sweep up afterwards.)

(note: in class, the kids pasted a photo of themselves onto a cutout flower form, attached to a popsicle stick. They look just adorable "blooming" from the grassy pots!)


A prayer: "Lord, faith in your Word is the way to wisdom, and to ponder your divine plan is to grow in the truth. Open my eyes to your deeds, and my ears to the sound of your call, that I may understand your will for my life and live according to it".

borrowed from EWTN, the Holy Season of Lent

Tuesday, First Week of Lent
"Your Father knows what you need before you ask him. This is how you are to pray: ‘Our Father....’" (Matthew 6:8-9)

Reflection.. . .
AND GOD SAID "NO."
I asked God to take away my pride,
And God said "No."
He said it was not for Him to take away,But for me to give up.
I asked God to make my handicapped child whole,
and God said, "No."
He said her spirit is eternal,While her body is only temporary.
I asked God to grant me patience,
And God said, "No."He said patience is a by-product of tribulation.It isn't granted - it is earned.I asked God to give me happiness,
And God said "No."
He said He gives blessings, Happiness is up to me.
I asked God to spare me pain,
And God said "No."
He said, "Suffering draws you apart fromWorldly cares and brings you close to Me."
I asked God to make my spirit grow,
And God said "No."
He said I must grow on my own,But he will prune me to make it fruitful.
I asked God if He loved me,
And God said "Yes."
He gave me His only Son, who died for me,And I will be in heaven somedayBecause I believe.
I asked God to help me love othersAs much as He loves me,
And God said,"Ah, finally you have the idea."
~by Claudia Minden Welsz

ashes, ashes. We all fall down.

After breaking out of the starting blocks of Ash Wednesday, ready for a spiritual rebirth, today (less than a week later) I feel as though I'm already failing miserably. Our beautifully crayoned stations of the cross lasted just hours on the wall. I had forgotten that Lucy is interested in everything within reach now...she tore them down and crumbled them in no time. Our family rosary this evening ended after just one decade. I was so frustrated by the time we got that far...kids giggling, disrespectful, our worst yet. Off to bed they went. Even my 1/2 hour at Adoration yesterday left me feeling terribly guilt-ridden. The harder I tried to focus on Him in prayer and silent reflection, the harder I had to fight being overcome with sleep. I've never had anything like that happen before. It took everything in me just to stay awake, and spend time with Him. I'm understanding now how it must have been for the apostles at Gethsemene. I never did fall asleep, but I was close. How horrible is that. For each step I try to take forward, I feel as though I'm stumbling back a bit.
The good news is (I must keep telling myself) there's lots more time to keep picking myself up and trying again. Surely there will be more hurdles and roadblocks along this journey, but through perserverance and much prayer, I hope to maintain focus and draw nearer to Him and His will for me.
In the meantime, instead of a snack (which is what I usually choose when I'm feeling bummed) I opted for a snuggle. Charlie asked me to squeeze in between him and Frank tonight, so I did just that. I laid with them for a good half an hour before I couldn't resist the call of the kitchen needing cleaned up for the night, oh and laundry, bathroom, etc. I'm grateful for the little moments with the kids, when all is right with the world...ending the day on a good note.

a thing of beauty...

who cares what's going in it! The hardest part is done, and she's a thing of beauty...

As far as I'm concerned, attaining a perfect pie crust is indeed a lenten penance. I've had several thanksgivings past, where prayer was the only thing that kept me from tossing entire pies out into the back yard.

John loves homemade pie though, and so I made the crust tonight, and will fill it and bake it tomorrow for lunch. I've got apple pie filling thawing, from the bushels of apples I prepared ahead last fall. Last time I baked one I added blueberries to the mix too which is probably what I'll do tomorrow. It's a nice twist.

No, we didn't give up sweets in this house...perhaps we should have.

another exhausting weekend

It's almost a relief today to be back into the routine of another week. (said with a sigh) I had a brunch Saturday morning with the mom's group I'm a part of. It meant starting off early with baking. I made a wonderfully simple baked French Toast, and in order to leave the house by myself without feeling guilty, I also baked a pull-apart monkey bread for the hungry mouths here. The kitchen smelled divine!
Saturday evening John and I got together with a group of friends we just don't keep in touch with like we should. A group of his high school classmates and their spouses gathered for a wine party at the home of one of the couples. We had many laughs about how far we've come from beer parties with chips and salsa. Karla had a beautiful spread of appetizers from bruschetta to chocolate dipped strawberries. We all brought a bottle of wine and even took part in a wine-guessing game. It was all so "grown up." It turned out to be quite a late night for us "old farts" though...I think we hit the bed around 2. Wow. Morning came around quicker than usual. I'm so glad we could catch up with good friends though, and look forward to trying to get together more often, especially now that John has his weekends off.
Anyhow we made it off to a later mass than usual, had donuts and coffee at mom and dad's afterwards, and later John brought the 3 oldest girls to the roller skating rink. I so wish I could have been a fly on the wall. Sounds like they had a blast. It was our kids' first visit there, and sounds like there will be many more trips in the future. I stayed home with the nappers, and did some baking. I tried a new recipe for a no-knead wheat bread. It came out a little more dense than I prefer, but the taste is delicious. It won't go to waste, I'm sure.
Anyhow, the highlight of the weekend was the realization that we have Saturday mornings again. At our house that means that the alarm clock is replaced by the sensation of cold little feet snuggling in between us in our bed. We just let them pile in until there's no more room. I think there were 8 in the bed this weekend...not everyone made it under the covers, but several brought in snuggle blankets and curled up at our feet like kittens. It truly is a wonderful way to wake up in the morning. Apart from summers, we haven't had this since before John started his weekend shift more than four years ago. One more reason to love his new schedule.
I'm feeling very blessed today, and so continue on with this Lenten journey, attempting to stay focused, to recognize His great love for me, and to reciprocate in some small way that love in return. Lord, make me worthy...

I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth.Genesis 9:13

Lord, help me to be like Noah, trusting in you even when it seems difficult. Let me remain focused on you and your Holy will that I might be found worthy of the eternal gift of Heaven.

Amen.

Leading the Way

Today I introduced my 2nd grade class to the Way of the Cross. A few of them had prayed it before, or at least heard of it. Thanks to this site I found some nice printable coloring pages for each of the stations. The kids each colored one, and then we posted them in the classroom. I have a nice "Way of the Cross for Children" booklet that was given to me, and so we were able to pray the stations and reflect on each. I was pleasantly surprised at how most of these young ones reacted to the prayers. It was beautiful. The Holy Spirit was certainly working on them.
I used this idea at home with my own kids last year, and plan to do so again. I lined one wall in the kitchen with the coloring pages they completed, and talked with the kids about them. This year I hope to do the same, as well as incorporate the prayers and reflections. If you don't have a Stations for children to follow, I found a nice one here. I'm not sure most of my young ones are ready to sit quietly and reflect in church on Sunday afternoons. Getting them through Mass can be struggle enough at times, so to be able to introduce them at home is nice.

prayer for Lenten perserverence

"Lord, I know how much you love me.
It’s hard for me to feel it sometimes, but I know your love is always with me.
Help me to use your love as a way to persevere in my Lenten intentions.
I am weak, but I know with your help, I can use these small sacrifices in my life
to draw closer to you."
~borrowed from the web (Onlineministries.com)

serving others, one slice at a time

I'm always looking for ways to help my kids understand a bit more about their faith, serving others, growing in Christ. I'm guessing others are too. My intention in sharing this is truly to give ideas. I'm not wanting to suggest we've got it all figured out, or that our ideas are any better, etc. Please know I'm just wanting to share.

Anyhow, all that out of the way...

To incorporate the idea of almsgiving on the kids level, we came up with "Poor-man's Pizza." The idea started with a letter we recieved last week from a charity we'd donated to in the past called "Food for the Poor." A missionary priest from South America came to our parish and shared details of the living conditions in one particular area, and the kids and I all left mass that day changed by what he shared. Anyhow, John and I agreed we felt compelled to donate (even if only a little) again somehow. We quickly realized that we don't necessarily have a stash of money to pull from, so we'd have to cut out one of our luxuries in order to make it fit in the budget. The first thing that came to mind, was our nearly weekly pizza night. Seems as though lately we've been ordering in pizza almost weekly, and this would certainly be something we could do without. To get the kids involved, and to let them know how our sacrifice of something so small could help others, we came up with the chart. Alice and Emma designed it so that there are 6 slices, one for each of the weeks of Lent. For each week we skip pizza night, we'll add a paper pepperoni to a slice, and stash the money saved into an envelope to be mailed out during Holy Week. We also clipped pictures of a severely impoverished, starving family (that came from the letter we recieved) along with a picture of the Holy Mother (which also came with the letter, and was too pretty not to include.) The poster hangs in our kitchen, in plain sight as a reminder of how our simple sacrifices can add up. Emma said it best as I was trying to sell the idea to Grace (who loves Pizza Hut pizza) "Think of it this way Grace, we give up pizza for a few weeks so that little starving children might not die." Wow. Even I wouldn't have put it that bluntly, but it was effective, and Grace got it.

Thank you Lord, for one more opportunity to serve, and for leading me in teaching our children to serve others with a charitable heart.

(by the way, the title "Poor-man's Pizza" came from a term we use around the house often. We serve up "Poor-man's waffles"--just toast with syrup--when we're out of waffles, or "Poor-man's steak"--just thick bologna on the grill--which the kids prefer, I think. Anyhow, the name for the pizza project came easy...something we've said before.)

Alice's joke of the day (2)

What's the difference between Roast Beef and Pea Soup?

A. You can roast beef, but you can't pea soup!

more 9 year-old hysterical laughing...

hungry for a fast?

My simple mind had never thought of "fasting" as being from anything other than food. That is until I read the previously posted Lenten Prayer

So this morning, as I read my daily relflections and prayers, I've decided to focus on a "fast" each day, not always from food, but from something that's keeping me from Christ. Today I've chosen to "fast from unkind words." Not just the words themselves, but the tone in which they're delivered. I find myself being short-tempered with the kids more often than I'd like and my mood last evening (I'm blaming it on hunger) awakened me to that. These are the people I love most in the world. Let me only speak with a loving heart today (and always).

Continued prayers for not just a penitential, but transformative Lenten journey.

Alice's joke of the day

What was Tigger doing when he stared down into the toilet?

A. Looking for Pooh.

(Laughing hysterically at herself for that one.)

for the love of God.

For the first time in my life today I fasted. Really fasted. Don't get me wrong. I've managed to fulfill my Lenten obligations for fasting and abstaining in years past for the most part. Today, however was the first time I've ever done so simply for the love of our God, and for a desire to want to be closer to Him. What an amazing change in how the day went when I considered doing it to please Him only, rather than considering it a bonus way to shed a few pounds during the lenten season.

I must admit, I felt drained for a good part of the afternoon. And when I was most tempted to grab a snack, I chose instead to feast on His word. The house was quiet for a short time this afternoon as the older kids were at school, younger ones napped, and John headed out to work. It gave me about 45 minutes to search for some good Lenten reflections online. Just as I began googling, the doorbell rang. Someone had stopped to deliver a book of daily prayers and reflections. I'd just been gifted with a treasure called "My Daily Bread" Wow. I read just the first chapter and know I'm going to love it. It's just what I'd been hoping to find online. Thank you to my mystery friend for sharing His word with me just when I was most hungry for it! The lesson or theme in the first chapter was a reminder to stay focused on Him and our ultimate goal of Heaven. I concluded my quiet time with a rosary. What a wonderful way to get centered in our Lord just before the kids get home.

I'll admit, by evening I was quite a grump to be around. The kids will not argue that, I'm sure. We did manage to find some peaceful time together making a Lenten Prayer Tree though. We cut out paper ornaments in various Lent/Easter themed shapes...lambs, crosses, hearts, crown of thorns, grapes, fish, etc. The kids gave suggestions for various prayer intentions, people or things they want to pray for, and wrote them on the ornaments, which were then tied to a small tree in our living room. (I have a small "christmas" tree out year round that I decorate for all the seasons, but the idea I'd read suggested clipping a branch from a tree in your yard). Our plan is use the tree to help us keep these prayer intentions as we say our bedtime prayers each night. Later during Holy Week, we can add our usual Easter ornaments and colorful flowers, etc.

Overall, I'd say we're off to a beautiful start this lent. As with any journey, we're bound to forget something, have to stop for assistance somewhere along the way, and certainly realize we're packing more baggage than we should ever need. I can only pray that as necessary, I'll stop for His directions. Peaceful journey to you all!

to begin...

A Lenten Prayer
Fast from judging others; feast on Christ in them.
Fast from wanting more; feast on being thankful.
Fast from anger; feast on patience.
Fast from worry; feast on trust.
Fast from complaining; feast on enjoyment.
Fast from negatives; feast on postitives.
Fast from stress; feast on prayer.
Fast from anger; feast on forgiveness.
Fast from self-concern; feast on compassion for others.
Fast from fear; feast on truth
Fast from discouragement; feast on hope.
Fast from gossip; feast on silence.
Fast from fighting; feast on peace.
Amen
~Adapted from a Lenten prayer by William Arthur Ward in Take Out, Family Faith on the Go.


I'm headed off to 8am mass this morning. Emma's 3rd grade religion class has her special liturgy today. She's excited to be participating by reading the petitions. A wonderful way to begin this spiritual journey called Lent.

Preparing for Lent

My second graders (religion class) and I were discussing Lent today. More to the point we were sharing ways to grow closer to Jesus through prayer, fasting and almsgiving. Most of the students seemed to have a plan of action...less fighting with siblings, no sweets, one was giving up a particular Nintendo DS game, etc. I was impressed that they'd given it thought, and were excited to "dive right in" to this holy season. I wish I were feeling as prepared. I've thought about it a great deal, and yet can't put my finger on exactly what my plans are. Maybe I'm thinking about it too much...
I read in my "little black book" (a lenten book of reflections distributed by our parish)today:

"We all have a file of resolutions in the back of our mind. These are the ones we usually pull out at a time like this. Maybe we'd do better to put those aside for a moment and find out what God has in mind. It may be something we've never thought of, something that surprises us."

I had initially thought of taking time away from the blog, but dear husband John suggests instead that I should share my lenten journey with you readers. Hope you don't mind if I pass along prayers, reflections, and activities we come across. Afterall, it is my intention to share the blessings we've received, that we may all grow closer to our Saviour. May you all have a blessed Holy Season of Lent.

Wow.

We finally got around to seeing this last night. If you haven't yet, you must! I'll admit, it started a little cheesey, I thought. But (sorry to admit it John) both of us finished the movie in tears. I think the message transcends marriage even, and in essence leads us all to a stronger relationship with our Loving God. Very Powerful! Put it on your Lenten "to-do" list. I think you'll be glad you did.

it all started with a meat and cheese tray...

Alice and Emma love to put together a meat and cheese tray. On occassion, when I seriously don't feel like cooking, I pull out some cold meat, cheese and crackers, and let them get creative. Tonight that's what we did. The conversation that stemmed from carefully placing coldcuts was priceless. Emma started with a lead in, "Mom, I'm gonna have a wedding you'll never forget!" I smiled, and added "No matter what kind of wedding you have, I'm sure I'll always remember it."
She went on to tell me how all adults were going to celebrate by jumping in inflatable-jumpy toys, and kids would get to splash in a kiddie pool. We laughed, and Alice soon commented that Emma was so good at arranging meat, that maybe Emma could cater her wedding dinner. I laughed, and suggested there was a good chance that Emma may be busy playing "Maid of honor" that day. They both agreed. Soon everyone was talking marriage. Rose wanted to be in someone's wedding, hollaring "Me! Me!" John expressed an interest in marrying his twin Mary. We straightened that out by suggesting maybe instead they could have a double wedding, and get married (to someone else) on the same day. They thought that was a good idea. Soon Charlie was getting upset. "Who can I marry?!" I was quick to throw in, "Just become a priest and you can marry them all!" He liked that idea. A lot! It didn't take long before he wanted to dress the part, and insisted I find/make him a "puh-reestes" suit. After our fine dinner (which included the all too wonderful Ramen noodles as well...we went all out!) I scavenged through my craft supplies and linen closet. This is the best we could come up with spur of the moment. An old bed sheet and some crayola markers (no-sew style.) Frank decided he wanted to be one too. Let the weddings and baptisms begin!


future Fathers? Charlie and Frank

while I'm on the subject of clotheslines...

I mentioned in an earlier post today that I'm looking forward to using the clothesline once again with the warmer weather. It made me remember that my mom's been suggesting for some time that I post an old e-mail I'd sent out several years (and several children) ago. I originally wrote and sent the story to just a few family members and friends and it came full circle to me a year or so ago when someone I'd just met in a prayer group pulled out a copy of the mail and asked if I was the "clothesline lady." Yep, I guess I am.
Who am I to deny my mom. So, here's my story, written sometime in spring 2004...sorry if you've read it before.


Counting my blessings at the Clothesline
“Happy Monday Everyone! (I know, grumble, grumble…back to the grindstone for those of you who do the 9-5 routine!) It was the same attitude for me today too, as I started my laundry that’s been building up all week. I finally had to give in and run a few loads before the kids started borrowing socks and underwear from my drawer! It was during my second trip out to the line this morning that I had to giggle when I saw my first load of darks hanging out…about 20 pairs of pint-sized denims all lined up in a row.
Wonder what people driving by thought…are we raising an army of
midgets here or what?! I had to giggle out loud as I took stock of that
long row of little legs. So funny to me, I even had to take a picture.
It was there and then on this partly sunny, but awfully chilly 50-
something degree morning, that God took a minute to remind me of all
the little blessings he’s given us! All this laundry I curse about each
week…piling up, waiting for the Era-elf to take over some night…was
such a visible reminder of these 6 beautiful children we’ve been given
and the means to provide for them. Not to mention the holey knees as
evidence of their good health and endless energy! Suddenly the
laundry didn’t seem such a burden today…although I’m sure by the time
it’s folded and put away, I will have lost sight of some of this peace and
joy. But for a moment, I’m grateful for this next heavy basket of damp
capris and onesies…knowing that it is in my daily service as a mom that
I am honoring God and following my true vocation! How richly I’ve
been blessed!!!
May you all find a moment of clarity and thank God for your blessings
as you continue your daily grind!
Have a great day all!” ~Jamie

thank you.

Thanks to all who voted....nearly 100 of you! It was pretty clear by your responses that you get what you get, when it comes to ordering.

If you want jelly (John!) you must ask for it, or better yet...grab the bread and get to it! (Love ya hubby!)

at last count...

11 of us have been hit. (Alice's guardian angel is working overtime, or something.) But (knocking on wood) we're feeling better fast. So hopefully we'll be done with this in another day or two.
I'm beginning to love the smell of Lysol. When I can't smell it anymore, it's time to clean and spray again. I used the peroxide advice to clean toothbrushes...they look sparkly fresh. Our washer/dryer are working overtime as I am now washing sheets again from the healthy ones just to be sure there's no more virus lurking in beds. It's never-ending, but so grateful that it's minor, and that it will pass.
My goal for tonight is to get the kitchen cleaned & sparkling & disinfected top to bottom, and scrub walls, handrails, and other neglected area as I've been concentrating mainly on bathrooms and bedrooms.

Too bad it's not spring yet, I could be hanging all this clean laundry on the lines to air dry.

...(clothesline fresh sheets and towels) One more thing to look forward to for spring.

I surrender...

John and I were discussing at noon time today, that next time ('cause there's always a next time...) we're just going to allow the sick kids to kiss, hug, share drinks, bathe in each others germs, whatever it takes to "hurry along" the unavoidable. Today there were four more of us with the stomach virus (myself included.) That's 8 of our 12 that have been "taken prisoner" by this ugly bug. The good thing is that it seems to be running it's course pretty quickly for most. If I had known 2 weeks ago we could have been done in 2 days instead of 2 weeks...I'd have let them all be "kissin' cousins."

Hind sight is twenty-twenty they say. So for now, I'm hanging my white flag of surrender and letting this thing run its course...hopefully as quickly as possible. I'm so tired of serving toast and applesauce with every meal... pray for us. (and thanks for all the tips and advice.)

fighting cabin fever (among other ailments)

I find it difficult coming up with ways for the kids to burn off that extra energy they have from being indoors all day. So when mum2twelve suggested this game, I thought we'd give it a try. We had a ball!!!!
Rather than using scrap paper, we gathered up all of our mittens and gloves and called our game "trashing the mittens." The rules were pretty much the same, although sometimes we skipped the trash can, and just tossed the gloves/mittens to the other side of the taped line. It was fun to see the little ones get active, and even funnier that I made the older kids stay seated on their butt to make things a little more fair. They could only scoot in order to gather up more "ammo."
It was fun, safe, energy burning play. Even old mom got in a couple rounds..."winner take on mom" or the best "all kids against mom." Shoot, I almost had 'em.


The kids (all but Lucy) lined up waiting for the timer to start...we lined the gloves up on the center line first.
and mid-game, as glove/mittens flew and laughter ensued.

germ warfare

Well, it seems as though the little ones are on the mend. They don't have much of an appetite yet, but they're at least keeping things down. (Thank you Lord!) We actually had a pretty pleasant day. (Oh, except for John who also has been hit...but he thank goodness can manage himself, and said he was feeling better as he left for work this afternoon.) I don't think we're out of the woods yet though, cause Grace has been pretty quiet this evening, and mentioned a belly ache a couple times. I sent her to bed with a bucket just in case. (Recycled ice cream pails seem to be our "vomit catcher" of choice.)
We're in full "viral mode" here at our house. I find myself disinfecting the bathroom countertop, sink, toilet, doorknobs etc everytime I enter. How did anyone ever get by before "Lysol disinfecting wipes?" We've temporarily done away with the communal drinking cup at the kitchen sink, replaced now with a row of disposable cups penned with each childs name. Handwashing is strictly enforced. I've been replacing the hand towel in the bathroom with a clean one several times a day. I even pulled a sippy cup out of Frank's mouth today because it "wasn't his." He looked at me in disbelief. Since when don't we share everything?! (Since mom's on a mission to get rid of the germs.)
It seems crazy, but I really don't want to see this make it's way through the entire ranks as it usually does, so I'm going a bit overboard, and hoping for the best. I'm having flashbacks of last winter when I was journaling fevers, tylenol/motrin dosing and other health information on at least 7 at one time. All that "keeping track" (not to mention sleepless nights and clean-up duties) can have your head spinning.
What, if anything, do you do at your house to keep the viral spread to a minimum?
I'd love to hear your tricks...

because he insisted I blog about it!!!

Hubby and I are having a fun time with a recent "misunderstanding." I've added a little poll to the left side. Feel free to respond.
He's even got the kids "clarifying" everything now...afraid mom won't get it right.

by His grace

It was a time-clock-punchin' day again. I do love my job very much, but it seems the last few times I've been scheduled, there's some sort of catastrophe brewing. Today was no different as I was leaving 2 little sickies home with John, on top of the usual chaos. A stomach virus hit our house over the weekend. It seems to be running it's course among cousins and other family members, so it finally came to stay with us. Frank started, and Rose soon followed suit. At no age is it a treat to be sick and vomiting...but at two, yuck. They know they don't feel well, but aren't quite quick enough to make it to a target on time. This means more laundry, more carpet cleaning, more mattress and bed cleaning, more baths...and on and on. Last night we moved Rosie's toddler bed down into our room so we could hear her better, so that helped. But there were probably half a dozen times when we had both two-year olds vomiting at the same time...it's like they could hear each other through the walls and a chain reaction would occur. Poor Charlie was caught in the crossfire at one point and came out of his bed crying "Why did Frank have to puke on me!?" "Frank, why did you?!" (One of the few negatives of sharing a bed with a sibling, I guess.)
Anyhow, on my silent drive in to work this morning, I was reflecting on the word "grace." It's a topic we've talked about very briefly in my 2nd grade religion class recently, and like many of our subjects, leads me to further reflection on my own, later. The word grace simply means "God's life in us" and I've always thought it to mean an undeserved, freely given gift. I suspected I guess, that it was something to help us through various moments. Something to carry us through hard times, or moments when we need His guidance or assistance. Today though, I thought perhaps grace isn't just something to carry us through difficult times. Perhaps grace Is the difficulty, the suffering. Jesus' life on earth, especially in His last days, was one full of unfathomable pain and suffering and perhaps through grace, He allows us to embrace that and draw nearer to Him through our own difficulties, however great or small. Maybe I need to embrace the suffering, difficulty, hardship, frustration, whatever it is, as the gift; God's life (even His cross) in us. As I hold that bucket and watch my 2 year old wretch uncontollably, frustrated that they've already missed, and splattered the carpet or bed linens one more time; the next time I find myself folding 3 extra loads of bed linens and bath towels as the virus continues to pass through; or even the next time I cook a beautiful meal only to be told "Yuck, I'm not eating it!" I hope to recognize God's grace; His life in me, drawing me nearer to Him on the cross, and allowing Him to flow through me...that I might be more compassionate, more charitable, more forgiving, more kind and loving, more at peace.

St. Valentine's Day

How Sweet!

While making Valentine's treats for the girls school parties yesterday, I found myself reminiscing about the day John and I met. Valentine's Day, '93. We had our first date a week later, and were engaged within 5 months.

Thank you God, for my love, sweet love.

Too Cute!

I was talking with the older kids last night about fun things to do today, not just to celebrate Valentines, but to make the day home with Dad special. I mentioned the weather may not cooperate with outdoor things, so maybe a picnic lunch on a blanket in the living room, some fun games, or making Valentines to share with the neighbors...something. Sam was quick to chime in, "oh yah, or we could just lay around in our underwear all day watching tv." (Umm. not what I was thinking Sam. I hope this is not a sign of future valentines to come...your wife could be a little bit upset.)

...and little John, Charlie and Frank snuggled into our bed this morning and woke us. My husband leaned over to give me a morning kiss, and I wished him "Happy Valentines." I joked with the little boys..."Everyone grab their girlfriend and give them a valentine's kiss." Charlie was quick (in an uninterested tone.) "Frank gets to be my girlfriend."

Laughing ensued.

Happy Valentines Day everyone! Have a blessed one.

the mystery footwear

Just couldn't help myself. With all the "hype" about the shoes, I thought I'd let the kids model them. It started as a little contest to see who could "work them" the best. The winner would be "featured" on mom's blog. They were too cute though, so here they are. All the contest winners sporting moms fun new shoes with matching clutch. (Did I mention they were red...my favorite color?!)

Charlie...who added "work gloves" to "man" it up a bit. (also note, he's wearing socks which I'm told is a faux pas!)

John...too much man for the shoes, and definitely no purse!

Grace, accessorizing the enemble with a baton.

Emma....I wish the shoes made me look that skinny!!

Alice...you look FINE girlfriend!
Beautiful Mary. I think these shoes will look great with jeans, no?!

Rose has the hair all fluffed for an evening out. (Love the polka dots!)

Even Lucy thinks the purse it "to die for!"

Frankie! Nice toes! (and mittens!)

Sam..."Are you nuts Mom?! I'm not touchin' those 'girly' things!"
...and there they are...my $3.99 peep toe shoes...with the $1.99 matching clutch. That's my bargain-basement clearance sale of the century.

My sister-in-law was kind enough to share a family picture she'd taken at the wedding.(Thanks Therese and Rod!)

We don't clean up too bad...

can't see the shoes, but check out those legs! ha, ha!!

and so the kids think I'm a "geeeeenius!"

The kids love egg sandwiches here.

It's a simple enough meal, but trying to fry or microwave that many, usually means someones waiting a long time...and usually the first one is ready for seconds before the last one is served. Last night I tried something new (to me) and it worked like a charm. I scrambled a dozen eggs with a little milk, and poured the egg mix evenly into 20 well sprayed muffin pans. Popped them into the oven and baked them for 25 minutes. At the end I threw on a 1/4 slice of American cheese. At the same time I baked 2 tubes of pop-out refrigerated biscuits (20 total.) The eggs popped out of the muffin pans beautifully, and were served on the split biscuits. All were ready at the same time. They were perfect bite-size sandwiches for little hands...most of the older kids had two. Everyone's happy, and all is right with the world.

Next time I want to experiment with adding veggies or meat like onions, sausage, ham bits, to make little omelet sandwiches. Yumm.

On the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes

Happy 5th Birthday Mary & John!

At my routine 20 week ultrasound, I found that there were two of you, not one. What a complete surprise to learn that we would be having a second set of twins!! (and relief, to know I had an excuse to be that big again!) We called everyone we could think of on our way home from the hospital that day. 6 children in 4 years...What joyful, crazy, exciting news.

The pregnancy wasn't without it's share of worries though, as we also learned that John was developing with some kidney problems. Prayers to the Blessed Mother, and to all the saints for their intercession proved fruitful. John was born with only one kidney...a perfectly formed, wonderful kidney that has more than compensated for it's missing counterpart. And Mary came into this world strong and beautiful, my worries with you will surely come later (in the teens?)

God is good, and we are eternally grateful.

Our Lady of Lourdes, continue to pray for us.

Red Envelope campaign

I read this letter over at Faith & Family Live's blog. It later arrived in my inbox from several friends. Just read, and if compelled, send Mr. Obama a quiet message. I think it's a cool idea. Gonna go look for a red envelope now...

Dear Friends and Intercessors:
This afternoon I was praying about a number of things, and my mind began to wander. I was deeply distressed at the symbolic actions that President Obama took as he began his presidency. Namely, that he signed executive orders releasing funds to pay for abortions, permission to fund human stem cell research, and federal funding for contraception. I have been involved in the pro-life movement for nearly 20 years, and it pained my heart to see a man and a political party committed to the shedding of innocent blood.
This man, and this party lead our country, but they do not represent me or the 54% of Americans who believe that abortion is wrong and should no longer be legal.
As I was praying, I believe that God gave me an interesting idea. Out in the garage I have a box of red envelopes. Like the powerful image of the red LIFE tape, an empty red envelope will send a message to Barack Obama that there is moral outrage in this country over this issue. It will be quiet, but clear.
Here is what I would like you to do:
Get a red envelope. On the front, address it to:
President Barack Obama
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave.
Washington, D.C.

On the back, write the following message:
This envelope represents one child who died in abortion. It is empty because that life was ended before it was able to offer anything to the world. Responsibility begins with conception.

Put it in the mail, and send it. Then forward this email to every one of your friends who you think would send one too. I wish we could send 50 million red envelopes, one for every child who died before having a chance to live. Maybe it will change the heart of the president.

no use crying...

...over not one, but 4 spilled milk cups. (and that was just lunch.)

St. Paul, pray for us.

(when I googled "patron saint for milk spills" it mentioned that when he was executed, milk spilled out of him rather than blood. It was as close as I could get, and any intercession is appreciated!)

...and did I mention there was dancing.

Emma and cousin Jacob



Grace and cousin Phil


Frank and Charlie doing the new dance move "moppin' the floor with your back" while cousin Tom watches

Sam making room in his dance card for little Rose

Rose and cousin Beth (and that's more "floor moppin' moves" in the back

Grace with cousin Ben

reflections on the day

It was an absolutely beautiful wedding. From the mass and vows, to the reception, the decorations, the dresses, the food, and fun times with family and friends. But most beautiful to be witness to the love shared by two as they partake in the sacrament of Holy Matrimony. I'll admit, I was choked up most of the mass. I can't help but remember our own marriage, and reflect on all God's goodness and blessings. Certainly we couldn't have anticipated what was to come when we said "I do," any more than Tricia and Eric can imagine what life has in store for them. It's the ultimate leap of faith, trusting in His providence and goodness. It's just a beautiful thing

A prayer of blessing:
We thank you, O God, for the Love You have implanted in their hearts. May it always inspire them to be kind in their words, considerate of feeling, and concerned for each other's needs and wishes. Help them to be understanding and forgiving of human weaknesses and failings. Increase their faith and trust in You and may Your Prudence guide their life and love. Bless their Marriage O God, with Peace and Happiness, and make their love fruitful for Your glory and their Joy both here and in eternity.

hello again

Sorry for my absence. Busy, busy, busy weekend with a wedding rehearsal dinner Friday, wedding Saturday, and more visiting with family on Sunday. Just catching up on laundry tonight. Will post more tomorrow. Peace to you all.
(oh, and thanks for the advice...went without the hose...got several compliments, and a few more comments regarding the initial post, mostly to the effect that I'd have been a nutcase to wear them with the cute shoes.)

my little fluff-ball

...why this Dad should not be fixing little girls' hair...

Sorry Rose, Mom will fix it...

diapers to your door

Because I'm wondering where this little treasure's been hiding for the last 9 years of my life, I'm going to share this with you moms (or grandmas) of little ones in diapers. They have nearly every brand under the sun, as well as wipes, etc. I found they have larger cases than what Walmart carries (which is great when you have 3 in the same size diapers). It's free shipping on orders over $49, and they have a coupon for $10 off your first order of $49. I did the math and it's just a couple pennies more per diaper than Walmart prices, but for the convenience (now that I'll likely have fewer trips there) it seems worth it. I'm going to be giving this a try. Thank you Karla, for sharing this with me!!

W.W.S.P.D

warning...men this post is probably not of any interest to you. It's "chick" stuff.

I'm in a bit of a quandry about wedding attire for the weekend. I found the cutest pair of "peep-toe" shoes (and I won't even tell you what a bargain they were!) to go with the outfit I'm wearing. My dilemna is weather or not to wear pantyhose. I can't imagine a pantyhose seam sticking out of these too-cute shoes, and yet...I'm old-school. Is it "legal" for a grown woman to dress-up without them? Yikes. I found myself wondering tonight..."What would Sarah Palin do?" She looked hot in everything, right?! I've been lotioning up, big time, just in case I work up the courage to go sans stockings. Even trying a bit of sunless tanner. Perhaps I'll turn orange, and the decision will be easy. We'll see what the day brings. Feel free to advise.

Sorry Mom.

Okay, so I got this cute little haircut today. (or at least I think so.) I've been way overdue, and with a wedding to attend this weekend, it was mandatory. Anyways, I took three of the girls with me. Afterwards, when I asked what they thought...Grace answered "You look like Grandma, but without the wrinkles." Good thing she has one hip grandma! I'll take it as a compliment.

not sure we can afford this routine...

Last evening, it was discovered that we were nearly out of diapers. We had enough to last through midday today, which would normally not be a problem, except that I had to work this morning. (Wouldn't have time to run before work.)
Now that John is on 2nd shift, I'm not afforded the luxury of running out to grab some alone through the evening, or even making my usual trip when the kids get to bed. Nope, last night it was all or none. I loaded up all 10 to hit the nearest Dollar General. I had just 3 or 4 things on my list...diapers, tissues, dishsoap, and deoderant I think. Shoulda been in and out in less than 5 minutes. Oh no! Not anymore.
Alice grabbed a cart and took Frank, Emma had a cart with Rose, and I had Lucy and Charlie in my cart. The rest were on their own to run like wild monkeys through the store. Okay, they actually behaved quite well...and I promised if they behaved well, they could pick out their valentines cards.
That promise was my biggest mistake. The arguments began..."If they get Valentines, can the rest of us get something little." Oi. Mind you, it's rare, VERY RARE, that the kids ever get to pick out toys or treats at the store. We just always stick to the list. But I had the army with me, and feared anarchy, so I caved. Everyone got to pick one small thing (less than a dollar). There were a couple that just couldn't decide...my patience was wearing thin, but I stood strong. I smiled at everyone who glanced across shelves, pointed, giggled, waiting for me to lose it. I never lost it. Selections were finalized and after what seemed like an eternity, we made it to the register. The older kids helped the younger ones out to the van to buckle, while I paid. Yikes...$30 of essentials, and $10 of junk...I'm not sure we can afford for John to stay on this shift. Ha! In hindsight, it might have just been cheaper, and less exhausting, to pay a neighbor girl a couple bucks to come over for 15 minutes.
Oh well. That which doesn't kill us, makes us stronger. I know we can get out and accomplish just about anything we need to. Little tasks like these are character & confidence building...although, I'm going to go hide a stash of diapers somewhere now, in case this happens again anytime soon.

around the dinner table

The 3 oldest began singing selections they're practicing for the spring school musical. Something about squirrels, and rain...I couldn't get a clear answer as to what it was really about...too much singing and giggling.
Anyhow, I asked what they were going to need to be dressing as this year. Alice and Emma thought they might need to look like squirrels. Without missing a beat, Charlie chimes in, " and I think Sam should be the nut!"

(I literally choked with laughter on my spaghetti. Where does he come up with this stuff?!)

St. Blaise, pray for us.

Feast Day, Feb 3rd.

We all stood in line after mass on Sunday as our priest and deacon offered the following blessing. As I laid in bed last night listening to the multitude of hacks and coughs coming from every corner of the house, I continued (and do still) to ask for his intercession for healing.

“Through the intercession of St. Blaise, bishop and martyr, may God deliver you from ailments of the throat and from every other evil. In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Blessing of St. Blaise).

day one on alien planet...

The kids came home from school today, asking as expected..."Where's Dad?" I reminded them his schedule had changed, and immediately called to order a meeting. Over teddy grahams and fruit snacks, we hashed out how things might change...good and bad.
The older kids seemed willing to help out a little more in exchange for a few more minutes of computer time or other liberties (yet to be determined.) We made a schedule, that will surely change a zillion times, but I feel better going in with a few ground rules...like no computer or electronic games before supper. After school time is for snack, homework, then helping with the little ones while I get supper on. After supper will be their free time. Except Friday evenings, which will now be our cleaning night. (So we can have "good times" with Dad on Saturdays.)
Tonight the older kids did a wonderful job entertaining Lucy while I made supper (without me nagging, even) and so after supper, we spent an hour or so at our public library. It's a favorite hangout for all ages. We followed up with some ice cream for a late dessert (low-fat for me!) and a silly sing-along movie before bed. The older kids would never admit to liking it...but they know all the songs by heart, and it's fun to watch them all enjoy it. Charlie even helped me with a Rosary as the others settled off to bed. It really was a good start to this new chapter. I'm grateful for God's grace to carry us through. Thanks for the prayers.
So now, I have a couple hours to fold up some laundry, get the dishwasher unloaded, and "settle" until John gets home. I'm not one for tv...don't even know for sure what I'd want to watch to get hooked on. Perhaps a little reading instead. A friend dropped by a book today that I'm anxious to check out. I can't even tell you the title, something from Focus on the Family about spending quality evenings with the kids...funny, it's as if she knew...that 'ol Holy Spirit is always working!

Peace and good night to all!

rolling with the changes...

After 5 days home, I think the kids were ready to be back in school today. Some anxious to get back to big projects, others just excited for gym class, and conversations with friends about the super bowl.
It was a little bittersweet sending them off this morning, as today begins quite a change for our family here. With layoffs and cutbacks where John works, his weekend shift was done away with, so he's moving to supervision on evening shift. The hardest part about that is him not being able to see the school kids through the week. It will be a HUGE adjustment for us all, to say the least, but we can only be grateful. We have neighbors and friends and coworkers who don't have jobs at all anymore. I feel blessed that John had an option at all.
Although, with the bad comes good, and that means John's home on the weekends for the first time in 4 1/2 years. We went to church together yesterday, and it was wonderful! I can't describe the comfort and strength I felt just having him there with us. All was right. Even Charlie behaved a little better (though not a lot!) but a little.
Posting may be a little more infrequent, as we adjust to new schedules and demands...or maybe not. Things may just roll along smoothly. If you think of us, say a little prayer as I tackle evening shift with the kids on my own.

fast food factoid

French fries, to a toddler, are merely a vehicle for getting the ketchup as quickly and efficiently to the mouth as possible.

longing for warmer days

As usual, I had visitors in the bathroom while I showered this morning. One of the kids, usually the younger ones use this time for conversation, confession, whatever, while I'm helpless behind the shower curtain.

Today it was Mary, and her comments were brief: "Mom, what is summer like? I'm forgetting to remember what summer is like. Can we go swimming on the first day of summer?"

Me: "Ummm. Yeah sure. Could you close the door on your way out...."

It helps some days to have a plan

When the home phone and cell phone rang simultaneously at 7:53 this morning, I knew immediately it was our school's call system reporting school was closed again. I didn't even bother getting the phone. Mary answered it, and in her usual message-taking style broke the news to me "Mom, it was Minster somethin' somethin'. I think it's closed." Enough said.

Today, I needed a plan. I'm not sure any of us could handle another day of "life on the prairie," and I'm sure manners and pleasantries were wearing thin. We need to get out. After breakfast, I called the local bowling alley, to see if they would have us. They were open, Thank you Lord!

I announced our plan to the kids, and they were willing to move mountains to assure we got there. Our Saturday cleaning (for the most part) was done by 10, beds made, rooms straightened, dusted, vaccumed. It was a wonderful morning. Mom joined us for bowling, and later my brother and his family, and even my dad met us as well. Turns out everyone was tired of being couped up. We had pizza for lunch and got home just in time to start afternoon naps.

Who knows what the rest of the day might bring. I'm grateful for a wonderful start though. I've got a lasagna thawing for supper, and made a pan of brownies as well. I know it must be God's hand moving the day along so smoothely, and I'm grateful for His help.

Now with our basic cleaning done a day early, I'll have to come up with some "above and beyond" projects to fill our morning tomorrow. Hmmm....what will another day bring?

to recap the day

Okay, I nearly broke a few times as far as the tv goes. Arguments from 8 and 9 year olds like "Mom, Charlie stole some of my Lincoln Logs," or "Rose keeps looking at me!" start to wear me down. But, just as I'm ready to pop in a movie that will keep the little ones singing their "a,b,c's" in peace, I see brothers lining up Rescue Heroes atop Lincoln Log cabins, while Indians take their place behind the Little People Race Track ready to attack. Sisters are starting a session of "school" or "secretary" (whichever takes more crayons and papers) and all is right with the world. The youngest 4 eventually settled in for afternoon naps, and I actually got my gray roots colored to their natural brown again.

Yep, all is right with the world.

We're on for a 2 hour delay already tomorrow. Hoping the buses can safely make it out to get the kiddies to school. Older ones are getting bored....not sure how much longer I can expect the niceties to last.

Another snow day!

I had to work yesterday (my first day back on the time clock in 6 weeks), and figures, I'd have to drive through a foot of snow to get there. I do love it though, so it was wonderful being there, seeing co-workers and residents I'd not seen in awhile.

Today though, I get to enjoy the day off with the kids. The oldest 3 spent most of the day building snowforts and tunnels with the neighbor kids, while the others stayed in. We found some old playdough toys that have been packed away for a long time, as well as some new Christmas treasures. It was a playdough village...barbershop, ice cream factory, as well as several other cool "noodle makers." Yes, everyone had playdough stuck to them, and yes it took quite some time to scrape the table, chairs and floor of mushed playdough, but it was soooo worth it! After the kitchen was cleaned up, we proceeded to make a "tent" of the kitchen table with some yards of old fabric I had stashed away.

Right now, kids are playing quietly with blocks and little people. We're trying our darndest to keep that old TV off. It's more challenging all the time, especially for the older ones who don't play much with toys anymore. I'll have to take a look in my stash of craft supplies to see what we can get everyone interested in. Better get...no rest for the wicked.

Happy snow day everyone!

Our Lady of the Snows

The scene from my kitchen window. Our humble grotto looking lovely as ever blanketed with a foot of snow. White lights keep her illuminated year round. (Even more beautiful when the roses are in bloom.)


A prayer: Our Lady of the Snows, Immaculate Queen of the Universe, Thou has bestowed so many countless graces and pledges of love upon the hearts and souls of millions. O Mother, deign to shower forth the graces of thine Immaculate Heart upon the remnant Faithful throughout the world, wherever they may be, and grant them the graces of a childlike love and unwavering fidelity to the holy truths of our Faith. Grant, good Mother, to the faithful Bishops of the Church the grace to defend Her Sacred Teachings, and to persevere courageously against all the enemies of the Holy Church. Amen.

who are you?

In Charlie's defense, I'll admit there are plenty of times that Grace (6) and Mary (nearly 5) have me doing a double take to see who's who. Their matching long sandy blonde hair, and similar size can cause me confusion to say the least. Charlie had us all in stitches tonight though, as he tapped Mary on the shoulder and bluntly asked, "Who are you? Are you Grace or are you Mary?"
It was so innocent and cute. If you don't know...just ask.

almost forgot...

A thank you to St. Anthony, for an earring found. It was one of my favorites and has been missing for nearly 2 years. It wasn't expensive by any means, but I liked them. Anyhow, I've saved the match all this while hoping (and praying when I thought to) it would turn up. Found it in the very back of my sock drawer of all places while searching for a missing black sock. (still searching for the sock.)

Were you all raised to turn to St. Anthony for help in finding lost articles?

"Good St. Anthony, look around. Something's lost and must be found."

I'm constantly reminding the kids of this one.

whoop, there it is...not.

I had three of the little ones to the doctor today, concerned they might have of all things, whooping cough. Turns out he doesn't think so, thank goodness. But 2 of them left with antibiotics none the less.
It's a challenge I think to know when to bring your kids in to the doctor. I tend to be one to try to wait things out, as long as possible. I can count on one hand the number of antibiotics that have been in this house for all ten kids combined. We've had some pretty nasty coughs, lasting for some time now though, so it was time to get some relief. Of course, the kids acted perfectly well for the doctor...laughing & carrying on like nothing's wrong. Why does that make me feel guilty?! Anyhow, glad they've been evaluated, are getting treatment, and hope to all be sleeping through the night again soon!

Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul, Jan. 25th

Paul’s entire life can be explained in terms of one experience—his meeting with Jesus on the road to Damascus. In an instant, he saw that all the zeal of his dynamic personality was being wasted, like the strength of a boxer swinging wildly. Perhaps he had never seen Jesus, who was only a few years older. But he had acquired a zealot’s hatred of all Jesus stood for, as he began to harass the Church: “...entering house after house and dragging out men and women, he handed them over for imprisonment” (Acts 8:3b). Now he himself was “entered,” possessed, all his energy harnessed to one goal—being a slave of Christ in the ministry of reconciliation, an instrument to help others experience the one Savior. ~from americancatholic.org

I'm reminded of the words expressed by a congressman from California, speaking from the March for Life on Thursday. He reminded us that "before he was Paul, he was Saul," a fierce persecutor of Christians, who met Jesus and had an instant conversion. The congressman encouraged us to pray for the conversion of our own President. What a great nation we could be indeed, if he too would "meet Jesus" and change his heart to recognize the sanctity of all lives, especially the unborn.

May we strive to be Christ-like in our daily lives, so that others may see Christ in us, and realize what's missing in their own. More prayers for the conversion of hearts.

May our President "Saul" become "Paul" before many more precious lives are lost.

March for Life (madness!)

I'm a bit miffed (okay, downright mad) at how March for Life went completely unnoticed by main-stream media. Surprised? No, but upset none the less. I did spend much of Thursday afternoon tuned in to EWTN as they provided Live coverage throughout the day. I was even fortunate to catch interviews with local youth who attended from nearby parishes. (Mercer County RTL) It's rare that I catch any television throughout the day. I felt it was important to make an exception for this. I'm inspired and optimistic by the huge crowd this year. Although, when I searched online for news reports, including tallies of those in attendance, I could find almost nothing. Jeesh!?

Anyways, as the kids napped that afternoon, I offered I quiet Rosary for Life. I prayed for the conversion of hearts, for a respect for the sanctity of life. I prayed that government leaders and lawmakers come to recognize that all life is sacred and in need of protection from this infanticide called abortion.

I'm angered when I think about the insanity of it all. This argument over the sanctity of human life should not be happening! When we miscarried our 13 week old baby earlier this month, we were notified that a "death certificate" would be available through the county courthouse if we were interested. So our government then recognizes that there is life. That apparently isn't the argument anymore? Rather, the argument is about murder, and when it is apparently okay. Would one pro-abortionist argue that if abortion is the answer to an inconvenient pregnancy, then murdering one's spouse would be justified in an unhappy marriage? Oh, I just get steamed when I start to think about it.

I'll end with a quote from our new President Obama, words given in his Inaugural address. If only he would recognize and include the unborn in this promise of his:

"The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness."

Nothing says ROMANCE like...

John and I giggled ourselves to sleep last night as I snuggled in next to him wreaking of this stuff. I've been battling a persistent cough for 2 weeks now, and willing to try anything, I practically bathed in Vicks hoping for one good nights sleep. I think he was sleeping when I "snuck" in, but one turn of the blankets sent a cloud of the vapors his way, clearing his sinuses and waking him in an instant. Neither of us could speak through the laughter, except for his one comment "My mom would be so proud of you."

(by the way, I did cough less...no other meds or cough drops required.)

When Frank woke me in the wee hours coughing, I gave the same treatment to him. As I tucked him back into bed with his brother, Charlie rolled over coughing and in a hoarse, crackly voice moaned "What kind of medicine did you put in Frank's mouth?!" I think there were enough vapors to clear both of their coughs...so I didn't put Charlie through the same trauma.

Speak Lord, (I'm trying to hear over the noise!)

I've had lots of thoughts running through my head here lately, none of which I've been able to put into words too clearly. That is until I was catching up on a few blogs I like to frequent, and read a comment about another blog (sorry, I lost track of giving credit in the shuffle) in which someone was speaking of how our exterior life (or that way in which others perceive us) can vary greatly from our interior life (the life we really lead.) Thinking on that subject helped to pull a lot of my thoughts together. I've been feeling a bit like a phony lately when it comes to how I'm perceived verses what I'm actually doing to keep my spiritual life strong. It's created a bit of a block, if you will.
I've written a few times about family rosaries, going to Adoration, various prayers, etc., but the truth is, that as quickly as we attempt to grow in our faith and add a new ritual or prayer routine, something comes along (or real-time gets in the way) and our attempts are stymied. I've become very aware of a certain "dry spell" in my faith journey, where I seem to be just barely going through the motions. If it weren't for the kids, I may just find myself "falling from the wagon" completely.
I watched a beautiful family in front of us in church last week. Older siblings were helping the younger, while mom and dad had it all in control. It was a blessing to see. For a moment, I felt jealous for how well they had it together, and how easy they made it look. It occurred to me later, that I often hear "how good mannered" my brood is in church...and yet I feel as if that one hour in church is not really a clear picture of how things operate here. Just as it probably isn't for the family in front of me.
I guess what I'm trying to say is, (and this is probably really obvious) I'm not the perfect, well organized, Betty Crocker, mom of the year. I'm just me, struggling at times to hear (and not be confused) by God's call. And more importantly, wanting to answer Him, but not always doing so. I hear God's knocking. I know He's opened windows/doors for me. I know He loves me, and I do love Him and want to do His will. I recognize that He wants a closer relationship with me. I'm constantly a work in progress, wanting desperately to be able to say clearly "Speak Lord. Your servant is listening."