With A Hopeful Heart

Thankful Thursday: Baby Edition

2012-02-09T13:32:00.000-06:00

Thankful for a sweet baby girl you just couldn't imagine life without.

Thankful for tiny baby toes that belong to a very tiny blessing.

Thankful for a husband who has a secure job that allows him time to stay home and care for his growing family.

Thankful for deep blue eyes filled with watchful wonder at all the newness that surrounds her.

Thankful for Big Brother who is very smitten with his new little sister, even if she wasn't the brother he was hoping for.

Thankful for a wonderful, Catholic doctor who takes very good care of mom and baby.

Thankful for another chance to dress a baby in pink and cute little headbands.

Taking a moment out of a busy Thursday to be especially thankful for so many precious blessings.

I Have Someone I'd Like You To Meet....

2012-02-04T16:30:00.005-06:00

Margaret Anne
Born Thursday, February 2, 2012
2:27 pm
Weight: 6 lbs. 12 oz.

Greta and I came home yesterday late afternoon and we are all settling in here. We are doing well and couldn't be happier (or more surprised!!) with our healthy little baby girl. I'll post more details and hopefully better photos another day.

Just had to stop in to update in case you were all wondering and waiting.

Thank you for your prayers and keep 'em coming!

Wordless Wednesday: Frosty Morning Walk

2012-02-01T18:26:00.006-06:00

While Waiting III

2012-01-30T08:22:00.000-06:00

Again, chronicling another weekend of waiting on baby. In case you missed the first installments, here are Week I and Week II.

If it's winter time and you are waiting on baby, you will take advantage of a sunny, warmer day and build a snow fort.

If little girls only take a short morning nap, you'll decide to do a trial photography session to see how well she handles it. And then you'll find that the feather boa is cute, but since she is very ticklish she only tolerates it for about two seconds before whipping it off.

If the troops get restless, you'll find that a walk in the crisp winter air takes their mind off their crabbiness and gets in some quick exercise for mama too.

If all else fails, you'll find that a new addiction to a little thing called Pinterest can waste away oodles of time. And, get you inspired to take your nesting to a whole new level in the craftiness department.

If you get hungry for something sweet, maybe baby will decided to arrive when he/she smells some yummy cupcakes fresh out of the oven.

Frost them with some homemade cocoa buttercream frosting and at least you'll be satisfied, despite baby not arriving all weekend long. Again.

In the end, we keep plenty busy because baby is worth the wait. Some of us get a little tired though and decide that we might as well take a snooze in the mean time.

Sorry to bore you with the details of our waiting period, but I figure I might as well post something because I don't want my readers to get antsy.

How was your weekend? How's every little thing in your corner of the neighborhood?

Words Of Wisdom: Don't Blink

2012-01-27T07:22:00.001-06:00

Over at Suscipio this week there was this post, which couldn't have come at a better time. In a nutshell, it perfectly cast a light onto all of the worries and fear that have accumulated over the last weeks.

There's something about planning a first birthday party for my baby and at the same time planning for the imminent labor & delivery of another baby. Both, within a week or two of one another.

God is in the details and all will be well. I know this to be true because He's sent me reminders this week that tell me so.

A must read for those of us in the trenches--you know, I never thought it would be ME in THESE trenches. I'm glad it is though because it's going to give me a lot of new perspective of all that matters and will also help me work on that Tranquility thing.

Thank you, Elizabeth Foss, for the beautiful post. I will surely be reading it over and over again.

BTW, the above photo is Gianna as a newborn. No new baby to post about...yet.

For My Due Date Buddy Update

2012-01-26T09:07:00.000-06:00

Patty and I have shared a special bond over these past months. A due date, but also thoughts and prayers spread between miles.

She's meeting her sweet Baby Joy this morning via c-section. Please send a few extra prayers for her and baby. I know she'll appreciate them.

And later, hopefully you can go meet her little one over at her blog. I cannot wait to see this precious little one we have prayed and eagerly awaited.

**It's a GIRL!!** Go Congratulate Patty and her family.

When He Wants A Baby Brother

2012-01-25T06:34:00.000-06:00

Have you ever seen this book? I ran across it last year, just weeks before Gianna was born. Perched upon a shelf, on display at the library. It caught my eye and thought it may be a good read for my boy who was determined that baby would definitely be a boy.

We read the book a couple of times and I fell in love with it. The little boy is so sure that his mom is having a baby boy and he keeps mentioning it throughout the book. Baby will not be a girl, he's sure of it. He keeps being reminded that baby could be a sister and that no matter what, when he sees his sibling he'll know that it's exactly what he wanted all along.

The last couple of pages:

'I bend down and kiss my little baby sister's head, and I feel all soppy and silly.'

'And Mom was right. I did get the kind I wanted all along-even if I didn't know it.'

This book really helped last time around getting Jonah to the point of understanding that baby could be a sister. Our family would be blessed no matter what the gender of baby and our prayer was that baby would arrive safe and healthy.

The book jumped out at me again recently at the library.

Sure, we all think baby IS in fact a boy this time around, but we could all be very surprised come baby day. And for a boy who REALLY wants a brother THIS time around, we probably need to read the book another couple of times as a little reminder.

While Waiting II

2012-01-23T09:07:00.000-06:00

Another week of waiting on baby brings another post of the things we do while waiting. Sorry, but knowing my history you are probably guaranteed at least another one of these posts next week too.

Over the last week I've kept busy:

putting my feet up
earning more Swag Bucks
keeping the kids on task at school
maintaining the household
cooking and freezing baby food for Gianna
preparing freezer pleaser meals for after baby arrives
etc, etc....

Over the weekend we attended a family event sponsored by our parish and the local KC's. Unfortunately, after enjoying weeks of glorious and warm winter weather things turned nasty this past week. Saturday afternoon brought gusty wind, blowing snow and frigid weather to be out in.

We did get in on some of the fun with a horse-drawn wagon ride, which was pretty enjoyable.

Turkey bowling, anyone?

Of course, there was also plenty of food to enjoy and apple cider to keep us warm. To end the afternoon, there was even Mass (indoors). A small gathering of hearty Minnesotans, but it was a welcome diversion for those of us waiting on baby time.

This little girl is taking advantage of the waiting and squeezing in all the daddy time she can get.

Happy Monday!

*Colleen, this is written IRTime. Yup, I'm still here. *wink*

Invaluable

2012-01-20T13:00:00.006-06:00

Thank you, man in the brown uniform and Mr. FedEx for delivering big boxes to my doorstep today.

Although the weather is warmer than yesterday, I don't know that me and my belly will be bundling up to head out.

But at least the kids are provided with endless entertainment and imagination to busy themselves.

Who cares what's in the box when it comes with oodles of packaging paper?

Delivery men, my kids and my sanity thank you.

Happy Friday!

Wordless Wednesday: Pinks, Blues And Neutrals Too!

2012-01-18T06:57:00.000-06:00

*As of Monday's doctor appointment I am 4cm dilated, 60% effaced and baby is at 0 Station. I better get back to my nesting...

While Waiting

2012-01-16T10:33:00.000-06:00

I have about 3 1/2 weeks until my due date. Mostly likely I will have four more weeks until actual baby day, going by my record so far. Suddenly though the weeks are counting down and perhaps it's nesting or maybe it's just the settling in of reality, but I'm realizing time is limited. I've got a list prepared of all that needs to be done (wash baby clothes, make lists for kids, prepare freezer meals, prepare freezer baby food for Gianna, rearrange nursery items to accommodate supplies for both littles, etc.) Not all time consuming things, but THINGS none the less. Again, I'm sure I've still got plenty of time.

In the midst of that are little things that we promised the kids we'd do before baby arrives. One of them was that we'd take an hour drive to stock up our pantry at Aldi's and Sam's Club, along with hitting up a new Cherry Berry yogurt bar.(Thanks, Jamie for the heads up!!)

We delivered on that promise over the weekend. End result: a stocked pantry and some very pleased yogurt-filled bellies.

Have you been to Cherry Berry? There are an assortment of flavors to choose from, then you load on the toppings (not too much though, because you are paying per ounce) and enjoy!

We each made our own and then taste tested between the four of us. White chocolate and chocoholic for mama; cookie monster for Lily; cheesecake and chocoholic for Jonah; vanilla bean for daddy. Top them off with fruits, candies, brownie pieces and Bobas to your liking and we were set.

YUM!

We stopped by my favorite craft store while running errands and I bought several things for a couple projects before baby arrives. You know, because I have so much time on my hands. Although exhausted when we came home, I put this together last night as my 2012 reminder.

Now I'll just wait and see how things are looking after my doctor appointment this afternoon. And then, continue to wait.

Hope your Monday is off to a great start!

Wordless Wednesday: On A Warm Winter Day

2012-01-11T07:32:00.000-06:00

Anyone Hear That Chirping Sound?

2012-01-10T09:44:00.000-06:00

It's only quiet here on my blog because...

--I seem to still struggle with any real brain activity happening in this pregnant brain besides fulfilling the daily tasks that lie ahead.

--We are still rebounding into normal routine after our Christmas break.

--After celebrating a special couple and their beautiful wedding over the weekend, I'm still thinking about how truly blessed that they are family.

--My nearly eleven month old has practically taken off running around the house in the last day or two.

--I'm enjoying ordinary time, with ordinary things to do.

--We're busy enjoying the unseasonable warm, brown January in MN weather.

--I'm contemplating all the things I 'should' be doing to prepare for baby and things that I really should unpack. But then I still think I've got plenty of time for all of that and put my feet up instead.

--In my free time I'm busy earning Swag Bucks, of which I'm addicted to, in order to get more Amazon gift cards(scroll down my sidebar and click on Swagbucks icon to start earning and I'll get rewarded too!).

Lest you think I am doing something monumental like, say, having a baby extremely early (I'll be 36 weeks on Thursday), rest assured I'm just here hanging out at home.

How's every little thing with you?

One Word

2012-01-05T06:17:00.000-06:00

Over the last couple years I've read from other bloggers who chose a word for their new year's focus. I haven't been able to follow suit, but thought this year I may only be able to attend to the reminder of a word, rather than a list of mighty goals.

While I've never made resolutions or been the greatest at goal-setting, I still live life in a way of finding aspirations and models to find inspiring along the journey.

I have a few things in mind for 2012 for our family and also hope to make a short list with hubby too. Not necessarily big things, but small things that will help our greater good. With preparing for a changing household and another baby, just on the heels of a monumental first year with Gianna, I think we're allowed to take it one day at a time in 2012.

One thing I have in mind for me personally is to allow myself time. I tend to push myself in a number of areas sometimes in order to try and maintain SuperMom mentality. Oh, I'm not that great at it, but I have expectations that many times are unmet due to my overzealous perfectionism. I think on the inside I put more pressure on myself to be 'doing' so many more things than I need to or can do. There is always the "Mom Guilt" that arises and makes failure feel inevitable. I want to be able to enjoy this year and life with my wonderful husband, my growing big kids and the transition of two little kids. 2012 holds so much potential for our family!!

One concrete thing that I hope to make changes in is the area of exercise/physical wellbeing. I've been able to maintain a good pregnancy again and keep up the exercise this whole time. I'm looking toward getting back to my normal self and a healthy weight and size. I have ambitions of getting into my best health ever (even if it's not a HOT body, but an overall healthy one) and attempting running. Yes, RUNNING. I even aspire to at least do one 5K this year. I think all of my following Colleen has left me VERY inspired. (Thanks, Colleen!!) We'll see how I do and how I bounce back after baby and go from there.

Ok, so finally....my Word for 2012:

TRANQUIL(ity)

Definition: free from agitation of mind or spirit (a tranquil self-assurance); free from disturbance or turmoil (a tranquil scene)

Synonymns: calm, peaceful, placid, hushed, restful, serene, still, quiet

I think this word is ideal for me as I look ahead with great anticipation in the new year. A new year that sometimes scares me a little because of all the unknown juggling and potentially tiring days ahead (you do recall that I can sometimes be an OCD, obsessive planner, right??). I'm looking forward to days that are utterly tranquil and serene with our growing family. Letting go of what is not in my control and what doesn't need tending to for today. Embracing each day in peace rather than in uptight, stressful mode.

2012 is going to be a very good year for me and for our family.

Just Write:: New Year

2012-01-03T16:41:00.000-06:00

The old calendar is replaced by the new and the slate feels so clean: fresh and new. A new beginning always feels so freeing and full of endless possibilities.

I look at the year ahead and wonder all of the great moments that will fill it. I feel like I've been here before, on the very edge of bringing new life into the world. I have been. Just last year. Oh my, how things have changed.

But here I am, a new calendar, a new year and finally nearing the end of a most surprising pregnancy.

As the contemplations of the new horizon ahead swirl around, I catch the other smallest member of the family toddling and walking around out of the corner of my eye. She doesn't know I watch or that silently I freeze-frame the moment in my mommy heart. She moves quicker now, knowing that she can move faster than mommy and belly can even begin to take me.

We are all on the verge of new horizons and adventures in the new year. I wonder if hers scare her as much as mine do me? Uncertainty comes with this uncharted territory. I don't like uncertainty or flying by the seat of my pants.

The calendar will fill at a most rapid rate and life will keep moving. And changing. A new little, amazing being will enter our lives before we know it and I'll be swept away in his/her littleness. The days will be full, even while the calendar seems most empty. I've been here before. Just a short year ago. And I can't believe that we are on this side of the first year.

It sparks gratitude and joy at the achievement. We all survived and we'll do it all over again. I couldn't have prepared for days such as these even in my wildest plans. But HE did. HE found a way to fill my calendar and my mommy cup to overflowing.

I stop to contemplate it but find it beyond comprehension and perhaps it's not as scary as I think. I may have just discovered the perfect word as my 2012 focus.

*****
Just Write is an exercise in free writing your extraordinary and ordinary moments. Find more Just Write links over at EO.

How We Spent Our Christmas Vacation

2012-01-01T16:35:00.000-06:00

While we were off on Christmas vacation all last week, I found that time can fly equally as fast whether schoolwork is part of our day or not. There were plenty of little things to be done, in addition to try and take it easy to some degree. I mentioned on facebook last week that I have officially hit the third trimester brick wall...tired, achy, miserable and generally just ready to be done. But I shouldn't complain, because it could be worse. (God bless you ladies whom He imparts with bigger/rounder bellies at this point in pregnancy--I don't know how you do it!)

Any way, most of the week was a blur but I did manage to catch some of it digitally.

Gianna had a really big week and seemed to grow up almost overnight. *sigh*

Sometimes it was just a little much for our little BooBoo...

Other times she was just content and we'd find her peacefully in the oddest of places (seen here under the island chair, chewing on my cell phone)...

She also decided to take off on her own and begin her journey walking *deep sigh* and these skidders helped her do just that...

As if the walking didn't keep her busy enough, the Christmas tree seemed to fill in the gaps and provided for endless entertainment (holding favorite ornament that she had pulled off the tree for the 1,358th time)...

The big kids enjoyed their Christmas treasures, but were mostly seen in these positions playing their new Wii games (this was allowed more than usual since a)they had no school b)their mother was exhausted c)their mother was too busy pulling the baby out of the Christmas tree)...

Friday brought a couple inches of snow after a brown Christmas. Although not huge winter weather fans, it did provide for a distraction and some outdoor fun...

We have a Snow Baby on our hands! Gianna gets absolutely giddy out in the snow in the sled. It's nice at least one of us likes that white stuff...

And, she eats it too...

I managed to squeeze in most of the lesson planning that will finish out the school year (BTW-I'm still loving the Homeschool Tracker program I'm using this year)...

This week we'll be back in the saddle with school work, chores and routine. I'll be glad for that....I think. We also have our niece's wedding to look forward to on Saturday, of which we are all excitedly anticipating!

Happy New Year Everyone!!

Captured Christmas Memories & Traditions

2011-12-28T16:05:00.000-06:00

What do you get when you try your hardest to photograph a million and one precious Christmas moments, a busy 10 month old who doesn't sit still and a tired seven and a half month pregnant mama?

Very few photos that aren't blurry/caught just in time or that adequately share the story of Baby's First Christmas.

She'll forgive me one day, right?

At any rate, I'm going to share the tidbits I did manage to snap despite there being a huge gap in pictures sharing all of the time we spent with our families.Darn it.

Our family tradition: Gingerbread house/scene creating as a family on Christmas Eve afternoon.

Gianna preferred to stay under the table awaiting any crumbs that fell.

Finished product: Santa's Village (aka: our best one to date!!)

Opening gifts on Christmas Eve, before late evening Mass. Lily and Jonah all ready to open and Jonah's holding his special gift for Mommy: a short 'book' he made and wrote with only a little assistance from Daddy. A tear-jerker moment for me since it was one of the most heartfelt gifts my boy has ever created for me.

Gianna's new ride: she looks like she's totally into it, right?

All of the kids stayed awake during Mass and we all were chipper enough for this quick family photo afterward:

Baby's first Christmas morning:

We enjoyed yummy Christmas brunch with some of Reed's siblings/their spouses and his parents, at their house. Afterward, we stopped at home to pack up the van and head to my parents where we celebrated with my parents, my brother's family and my grandma.

My family's tradition: we sing Happy Birthday to Jesus after our Christmas meal together. This year I went simple, since we are always so stuffed after all the eating, and made poke-cake cupcakes with whipped topping and holiday marshmallow toppers.

Another tradition: a photo of Papa with baby who is celebrating their first Christmas, along with their Christmas stocking. We started this with Lily, the first grandchild, and now Gianna is baby #6 to carry it on. We'll do it again next year with Baby Gem too!

We truly had a wonderful and blessed Christmas! Now we are enjoying Christmas break from school and a slower pace. Unfortunately, this is a busy time for Reed at work so he is unable to stay home and be cozy with us. We sure do miss him. We'll make up for it this weekend again though when we are all together for three days!

How are your Christmas days going? Hopefully peaceful and relaxed, as they should be.

From All Of Us Here...

2011-12-24T06:43:00.002-06:00

Waiting On A Child

2011-12-20T11:00:00.000-06:00

It's the week before Christmas and while I'm thinking about that infant child, the King, I've got my mind on another baby too.

Our baby.

Yesterday I had the chance to catch another glimpse at Baby Gem. At my regular OB check up last week I was measuring a few weeks smaller than what I should've been, so my doctor ordered an ultrasound.

This morning I heard back from my doctor and he said Baby Gem is roughly 4 lbs. 12 oz. and ultrasound and growth were both normal. While waiting on little one it's always comforting to see their growth and changes. How can we not fall in love all over again when we get to watch him/her move and wiggle, swallow and move their hand up by their face? Precious. The tech even pointed out some hair too. So cute. It also confirmed that I again am currently carrying a 'low rider' and this baby is low in my pelvis and in position for delivery. This would explain the pressure I've been feeling over the last two weeks.

These new shots of baby will hopefully inspire us and move us in a direction of decision to get baby names narrowed down. We talked about it over the weekend, but then when we tried the names out on the kids they were less than enthused with them. Not that we decide on baby name solely based on the kids' likes or dislikes, but let's say that we're currently 'in negotiations.' It will come, I'm sure. Until then, don't ask us the names because we won't be sharing any more during the remainder of the pregnancy. We'll fall in love with the names on our own and then fall in love all over again when we put it with the face of our lovely little one.

Waiting and watching, are tough to do. We know arrivals, big and small, come all in good time. As we wait, we prepare and make ready...our bodies, our minds, our hearts. These last days of Advent our precious days, even though they are filled to overflowing with things to do, school to wrap up, piano recital and daily duties that call. Hopefully we can still capture in our home the wonder and awe of waiting, preparing and making ready.

O Come, O Come, Emmanuel!

Let's Celebrate Today!

2011-12-16T09:24:00.000-06:00

There are a few milestones I thought I'd celebrate today, instead of waiting until tomorrow. I rarely post on the weekend and I know that most of you rarely read then either, so let's make the most of Friday! It's practically the weekend, right?

First, tomorrow is my Fourth Blogiversary!

I've nestled myself in this little corner of the blogosphere for four years already. Amazing! Thank you to so many of you loyal friends and readers who have journeyed along with me. It's been so much fun getting to know you!

Perhaps you stop by once in a while or are here on a regular basis, either way I'm grateful that you swing on by. If you are new here, Welcome! I look forward to 'meeting' you. Become a Follower and I'll be sure to say HI over at your place! I always enjoy meeting new readers!

My desire is that With A Hopeful Heart is a place for you to be encouraged, realize that we moms are all human, perhaps give you a chuckle once in a while and sometimes just a good 'fluff' post to read.

All of these are just brief glimpses into the open door at my house and my hopeful heart. I'm glad you're here for me to share them. I will be praying a prayer today for all of you who have so richly encouraged and blessed my life through this blog.

Second, we're celebrating Gianna tomorrow too!

She's 10 months old already and keeping this mama quite busy. Never a dull moment, never without eyes full of wonder and awe, always amazing and blessing our lives. Happy 10 months G!

Lastly, I celebrated this one yesterday but figured I'd throw it in here too: 32 Weeks!! And for those of you who ask about this sort of thing and look for those belly shots...here you go:

Thank you for celebrating with me today! Have a glass of wine if you are able or perhaps a steaming cup of coffee along with me...CHEERS!

Have a wonderful weekend as we light the last Advent candle!

Please Pray Tonight For A Dear Blogger

2011-12-15T19:44:00.002-06:00

Jamie and her baby could use your prayers tonight.

Let's surround her in our prayers and keep this sweet mom in our thoughts.

Visions Of Sugar Plums....

2011-12-15T09:18:00.000-06:00

dance in his head.

Because he thinks gifts as great and large as an iPad and iPod Touch will be filling his stocking.

Dream on, little man.

Realistically, I don't think he's counting on these outlandish gifts, but he mentions them any way in the hopes that St. Nick will soon hear.

(Darn Christmas consumerism! It takes away from the innocence of the season)

But still, I wonder how did my little boy become a techie nut?

Wordless Wednesday: Like Brother, Like Sister

2011-12-14T06:13:00.001-06:00

Jonah:

Gianna:

Can you tell they are siblings? And who their daddy is?

Rose And Joy: They Just Kind Of Go Together

2011-12-11T14:31:00.003-06:00

Today is Gaudete Sunday! It's always been one of my favorite Sundays. I think it's a Pink thing.

I recall most of my life liking the 'Pink candle' Sunday (Or as our priest reminded us at Mass this morning, it's ROSE, not PINK). It means that Christmas is near, but there still is just enough time to try and enjoy Advent.

For me, the word 'Rose' alone gives me Joy. It has held so much meaning over the last couple of years, so when I hear it I cannot help but smile. That the Rose Sunday comes amid my most favorite time of year, just happens to be an added bonus.

Oh sure, it's stressful these days and at this time of year. Too many, many things that take our time, our effort, our sense of peace and our joy. Somewhere though in the midst of that, is the quiet place. The waiting place. The place I find and grasp just for a quick moment, because in the busyness it can be so fleeting.

It's there though, softly whispering. Beckoning us just to BE in the joy. BE in the season.

Today I am embracing the joy and peace of Gaudete Sunday. Time with my family, wrapping gifts, a family walk and stolen moments of pink.

I know all around me there are many suffering, there are many family and friends that have reasons to be without joy today. This evening we'll turn on our outside Christmas lights for the first time this year and hope to spread our JOY to those around us.

I hope that you are finding plenty of pink and lots of joy to celebrate today.

{Pretty, Happy, Funny, Real}

2011-12-09T07:11:00.000-06:00

With this being my most favorite time of year, it was time to kick myself into gear and get decorating. The big kids helped me over the last two days spread Christmas and Advent cheer to the barrenness of the ordinary in our home. The outcome is somewhat minimalistic compared to what I have done in the past, but I added more to the tree and focused more on the main rooms-living room and dining room. Honestly, that was about all the energy I could put into the effort.

And I like it this way.

{pretty} above the dining room table

{happy} little girl who is less than eager each morning to let daddy leave for work. Some days she cries when she notices that he is getting his coat and shoes on to leave for the day. We do our best to entertain her and keep her busy as he slips out the door, but we still stand at the window and she waves good bye most every morning. While the parting is tough, she loves her treasured morning moments with daddy and I think he does just as much.

Too bad my Christmas photo cards have already been ordered and are printed. Otherwise, this photo may have made it on the front. It's {funny} because it was such a real and heartbreaking moment for Gianna, but we were trying to make the best of it.

The tree was up and decorated and we were celebrating, but Gianna did not feel very celebratory at the moment. I will not share with you another photo taken the moment before that certainly could have told a different story and would have made it under the {real} part of this post. Let's just say that a certain older child was very much more crabby in the previous shot.

A {real} moment during decorating. Each child has a photo of their First Christmas and hanging their first ornament on the tree. Thankfully, I remembered to have my little photographer snap this one.

Happy Weekend to all of you! I am hoping to manage some more baking with all my helpers, rest a bit and just enjoy the Advent weekend.

Visit Like Mother, Like Daughter for more {pretty,happy,funny,real} entries.

Help! Having Troubles Reading Or Commenting Here?

2011-12-08T10:50:00.002-06:00

According to Sitemeter, I'm still getting visitors here and the numbers are about same as they have been in the past.

However, while I get my regular people who comment, the comments do seem to have gone down just a bit. Not a big deal if you all are busy, but it makes me wonder....

Are you all reading in Google Reader? Or are you able to actually hop over here and read on my blog? Trouble commenting?

If you are having any of these problems, could you let me know?

The reason I'm asking is because several months ago I had problems with others being able to stop here, along with many other bloggers. We found the problem and I pulled that from my sidebar. I thought the issue was resolved, but it's been drawn to my attention that a couple of close friends (including my husband) have trouble getting to me. They have to do it via Google search and then can eventually get here.

I've had trouble commenting on other blogs a couple months ago and went ahead and downloaded Google Chrome and the issue resolved for the most part.

Please, will you try to comment letting me know that you can or even email me to let me know if you are having troubles? hopeful(dot)heart(dot)blog(at)gmail(dot)com

If any computer guru has any insight, I'm up for that too because if there is an issue I'm unsure how to amend it. Thanks, dear readers!!

Reasons For Hope

2011-12-06T11:28:00.000-06:00

Had we lost hope and stopped trying to increase our family size simply because it became too difficult....

I never would've gotten this newest vacuum cleaner model

I never would've beheld the innocence in these beautiful baby blues

I would have missed out on being able to torture my child with this costume on Thanksgiving

I wouldn't be greeted by this child at snack time

I'd miss another helper in the kitchen

We wouldn't have a little girl to call Miss Fancy Pants

Our family would've missed out on this beautiful smile and the girly giggle that goes along with it

This sister wouldn't have a little sister

My heart wouldn't have moments like these to treasure or my eyes have ones such as these to tear up over

I'm find myself especially sentimental during Advent and the Christmas Season. This year is no different, because there were days when being in this place and THIS BLESSED was only a distant hope. I do not forget those days and that feeling. I also do not forget the faith and hope that remained and helped us remain strong.

Especially thankful for my hopeful heart today.

Fluff And Stuff

2011-12-01T16:32:00.000-06:00

I'm feeling fluffy today.

No, not fat kind of fluffy, although my baby bump is certainly growing. More of a do-I-really-have-anything-insightful-to-take-the-time-to-type-into-a-post-because-my-readers-deserve-some-new-material-but-I-just-have-randoms-in-my-head-so-I'll-write-a-fluff-post-instead.

You get all that?

Who doesn't like fluff? I like fluffy teddy bears and fluffy slippers and a big fluffy pillow, don't you? I hope you aren't disappointed, but I'm forging ahead with a pregnancy brain, fluffy post. Feel free to leave now if you'd like. I won't mind and I promise that there will surely be more substance back here very soon.

Here we go:

-I'm trying to get myself into Advent. But, as I said here, my brain is still stuck in September. It's a bummer because this is my absolute FAVORITE time of year. I love the preparation, the decorating, the baking and the family time. Now I just need to jump in and get my head in the season.

-Perhaps the above will be better once I start decorating the house and baking cookies. I love when my house is decorated and smelling of Christmas. The last couple years though it's the setting up all the decor and pulling out the bins that is daunting. I blame the belly. Good thing I've got such a helpful and willing hubby.

-Almost all of the Christmas gifts are bought or ordered. I scored a great deal on my photo gifts for several people, so that thrilled me to no end. And, I was offered an Amazon Prime free trial at the beginning of November, so I've been getting some great deals, plus free shipping. Sweet deal, but a little addicting to just go out on Amazon any time and order anything not worrying about shipping. Normally I'd be waiting and combining as much as I can when I order, but with the Prime I've been an orderaholic. Probably not worth it for us personally to actually purchase the Prime, but a sweet deal if you order a ton.

-The kids are growing up too fast. I know we all say that, but it's true. Lily is turning into such a young lady (already)and she is such a mother hen. She checks in with me daily at least once, asking if I've felt the baby move recently. I've never asked her why, but I think even she likes to have the reassurances. Jonah is keeping busy with constantly transforming and changing his Thomas the train sets and redesigning them. School has a few struggles for him, but we're trying to figure them out and work with them. Speaking of school, we are keeping a steady pace since we just have a few weeks until Christmas break, then another month of school and then baby may arrive any time. We'll see where we go from there.

-As for the little lady of the household, Miss Gianna is keeping us all busy and entertained. She is developing a fun personality and is keen on watching us all the time. She's drinking from a sippy cup, can drink from a straw and will self feed at snack time. I cannot believe she is nine months old!

I had her in to the doctor for a check up the other day and she weighed in at 21 lbs. 3 oz. and 29 inches long. Doing well. She absolutely hated the appointment though and she didn't get to show off her fun personality, funny little grin accompanied by scrunched up nose or hear her little laugh. She cried and screamed the.entire.time. And, that even included when the doctor (her Godfather) was checking her over. (Thankfully, she doesn't usually act like that when we see him outside the clinic)I guess she doesn't like non-family members in her space or at least she doesn't at the clinic.

-I find myself craving things and very hungry this week. Perhaps little Gem is going through a growth spurt? I've never really been one for cravings or to have them that long. Even when I have had them while pregnant, I don't usually give in or make my husband go out and get them for me. Coffee (half-caf) is tasting especially yummy and comforting lately. I try to stick with my one grande cup per day, but some days by mid-afternoon the second cup is calling. Sometimes I give in. And how about those advertisements for the Arby's Reuben? Have you seen them?

That is looking scrumptious right now. I should probably pass though since the sauerkraut may do a number on my tummy.

I think that is about it from here. There you go. How's that for a bunch of fluff?

I hope that your first week of Advent is going well. Please stay tuned here, despite the nonsense. Rest assured that I'm still reading from all of you, despite the lack of commenting.

Our Family Advent

2011-11-30T07:09:00.006-06:00

It's several days into Advent and I've been reading post after post of amazing Advent plans. You all have such wonderful ideas and book lists galore!

For some reason, Advent snuck up on me and I was unprepared. Some place in my brain I am still stuck in September. Not sure why.

When one of my kids asked on Saturday morning what book we were reading this Advent season as a family, I sat with a blank stare. I hadn't a clue. In fact, I had completely forgotten to research and purchase something for us. Shoot!

To Amazon I went and found that the author of Jotham's Journey (a past Advent read we all enjoyed)had two other books to choose from. I ordered both so as to be prepared next year and not be caught off-guard again!

We'll be reading Bartholomew's Passage this year, after it finally arrives today or tomorrow. We'll be starting a little late, but we'll be sure to catch up. Within a day after purchasing these books, I read from several bloggers and facebook friends that they too were planning to read Bartholomew's Passage. Looking forward to reading along with so many of you!

Throughout the weeks we'll also pull out a number of excellent Christmas books that I've bought over the last few years. In addition to those, I've got a mile long list of them requested from the library. I've gotten my list over the years mostly from Jessica that she posted again this year.

Our other Advent family tradition that we will again do this year is the St. Andrew Christmas Novena. It has blessed our Advent abundantly and our evening family prayer time as we prepare for Christmas. We prayed it two years ago in hopes of our own little one and last year we prayed it again and offered it for Mr. and Mrs. B. They are expecting Baby B this year in a couple of weeks! This year we will pray it for Baby Gem and a safe delivery and many bloggers/friends/family who are expecting little ones in the coming months.

The novena starts TODAY, St. Andrew's feast day!

St. Andrew Christmas Novena Prayer to Obtain Favors

Hail and blessed be the hour and moment in which the Son of God was born of the most pure Virgin Mary, in Bethlehem, in piercing cold. In that hour, vouchsafe, O my God to hear my prayer and grant my desires, through the merits of Our Saviour Jesus Christ, and of His Blessed Mother. Amen.

(It is piously believed that whoever recites the above prayer fifteen times a day from the feast of St. Andrew (November 30) until Christmas will obtain what is asked.)

No other big plans here for Advent, but I think a few small traditions are wonderful memories to make with our growing family. If you have a prayer request you would like our family to pray for during our Advent novena, please leave a comment or email me (see sidebar). We'll gladly include your intentions with ours.

Happy Advent!!

Happy Thanksgiving From My Turkeys

2011-11-23T10:00:00.009-06:00

From Lily:

From Jonah:

From Gianna:

From all of us here at our house, to all of you, wherever you may be...

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Partly To Mostly Foggy

2011-11-21T12:56:00.000-06:00

I was very relieved when I read Patty's post last week and found that I was not alone.

I thought perhaps I was losing my mind or that it was just MY connectors that were a little less than, well...connected. Good grief! Several times a ~~hour~~ day I find myself questioning some of the most obvious things or forgetting the most basic of tasks.

Is this normal? As the pregnancies add up, does my IQ and brain wave frequency decrease? Or maybe it's the close proximity of pregnancies this time around.

Restless/interrupted sleep?(Gianna still doesn't sleep through the night)

Well, I've been blaming 'pregnancy brain' in hopes that it was a good enough excuse.

It's some of the smallest details, but really things that are so every day and basic that I don't feel like I should have to think so hard about. It's peculiar though how often there is the missed connection somewhere that keeps causing the brain fog.

I'm hoping this will all come to an end soon, but if sleep deprivation is the main culprit then we might as well count on this continuing for at least another year.

Thankfully, my children aren't old enough to admit me to the Funny Farm yet. Although, maybe hubby is about ready to. Doubt it. He'll probably keep me either way.

PS..When I wasn't busy losing my marbles yesterday, I took a Sunday Snapshot. It's a small glimpse into my world at a certain point on a Sunday. Go check out Snapshots from a Sunday to see what others were up to yesterday.

Snowy White

2011-11-19T17:10:00.006-06:00

Today brought our first snowfall and although that does not necessarily mean that winter has officially started, in my book it pretty much does.

So begins winter survival, snow packed country roads and more snow/winter gear to pile on before heading outdoors.

Surprisingly, my nine month old enjoyed the sled ride and snow blowing at her face far more than I anticipated. The girl was smiling more today in the sled than she has over the last two weeks donning her winter coat in the stroller.

Now it's back to the couch with me to nestle in my cozy blanket, the smell of warm chocolate cake out of the oven and the sound of my daughter practicing "There's No Place Like Home For The Holidays" on the piano.

I hope you are enjoying your Saturday!

Just Write: A Day Late

2011-11-16T11:40:00.000-06:00

I love this idea! And, since my blog posts are lacking and just faint whispers in my head, today this seems ideal.

I've got ten minutes before lunch....and....GO!

My 'big kids' (that's what we're calling my two older kids these days) are watching HUB. One of the couple measly channels we get after we put our DISH network on suspend for a bit. It was an effort to reduce tv watching, but also cut down the budget. We opted for getting a local guy to come and amp up our outside tv antenna so that some channels are available to us on regular tv. We also got a Roku that allows for instant watching/tv shows that we can't get via the antenna.

Anyone confused yet? Bottom line: we are saving money and enjoying the freedom of less tube time. The drawback will be missing all of the Hallmark and ABC Family Christmas specials.Oh well.

Gianna weighs around 20 lbs. and has gotten to be too much to carry in the infant car seat. Growing 8 month old + growing mama belly = time for a new car seat. Although the infant car seat will again be filled come February, putting it away for a time still makes me tear up just a bit. Our time with Gianna so far has flown by and my heart is so full. I almost cannot imagine what life was like before we were a family of five. I know that something was missing and God definitely filled that void. Now, it will be times two in just a year.

A doctor visit and a slew of labs left me with mostly good news. Twenty eight weeks tomorrow and right now my weight gain is five pounds shy of this point last year with Gianna. That makes me feel good, mostly because I know that getting the weight off later may be more difficult. I'm thinking though that if ever there was a time to go for the gold and gain weight, now would be it. Not willing to take that plunge though. Is that wrong? The weighty issue kind of gets me thinking lately. My other labs revealed no gestational diabetes, my thyroid is normal and completely being off my meds. for the last month is just fine and lastly, my progesterone number rose rather than fell this week. The relief to be off thyroid meds. is wonderful. Still on progesterone shots, but feeling more ok with it this week. It certainly can't be much longer now, one way or another.

My kids are now fighting over playing in the basement and some disgruntled argument ensues. It goes like this-on again, off again, bittersweet sibling stuff.

Although random in post writing this is, it's me writing. These are the things that flutter back and forth, back and forth in my head these days as the clock hands fly around and around.

The timer is sounding and children's tummies are calling.

Thanks for joining me in Just Write. It's random and not perfectly written, but that's the point. Other Just Write posts are linked over at The extraordinary ordinary.

Realities Of Motherhood

2011-11-11T04:00:00.003-06:00

The other evening as I rocked Gianna back to sleep I got to thinking.

That alone can be alarming considering that I think my brain is working at only half-power lately.

As I rocked back and forth snuggling my little one I also sat there misty eyed. The day had been long, I was tired, Gianna had been peacefully sleeping and now was suddenly startled and awake again. I had found out that my progesterone number had dropped since last week and I was anticipating another progesterone shot within minutes. I am tired of those things and was so hoping that my number would sustain and get me off of them for the remainder of this pregnancy. No such luck.

I wearily rocked my sweet baby girl as my other baby, current in-belly resident, kicked and moved. I couldn't help but think how it's the beginning of sibling rivalry or perhaps camaraderie. I half embraced the moment as the other half of me became overcome with emotion.

I am human. I am mom and I am wife. Like most moms, I.am.tired.

In that moment the reality of motherhood grasped hold of me and I thought of how overwhelmed and restless I felt. This would all only be magnified when a new little one enters our house in mere months, while I trip over toys, run after a one year old, school my older children and wear my super-mom cape as I fly around the house. I could not imagine how she does it and still remains sane. I pondered for a moment so many women I know who hold in their loving arms child after child who they lovingly raise. Far better are they than I, for being able to care for and manage so many blessings.

Overcome, I then realized that every reality of motherhood and day in the trenches most often can easily be outweighed by the rewards of motherhood. The daily graces that I cling to and desire. Difficult days like these aren't forever and most often don't last, although they seem to pile up and feel like they never end. There are so many good days that are filled with enough moments and memories to fill the mommy scrapbook in my heart.

A peace and serenity came over me.

I looked down at the sleeping baby in my arms, inhaled her sweetness and kissed her one more time before laying her back in the crib. I watched her peaceful sleep and knew that sometimes we need to face the realities in order to more fully see and enjoy the rewards of motherhood.

Although it isn't always glamorous and perfect, this is my vocation and I wouldn't change a thing about my daily reality.

I closed the door and turned to face my other reality-a sharp jab in the behind.

Smile! Your Children Are Watching

2011-11-08T19:08:00.000-06:00

During a recent school day, my youngest student caught me off-guard during a particular difficult teaching moment.

"Mom, keep that smile on your face!", he shouted.

I stopped what I was doing and kept the smile.

He smiled back at me and said, "I think I know why some people have a smile on their face ALL the time...."

He paused.

"It's because they don't have children."

While his little observation initially made me laugh, it's given me something to think about since then.

How often do my children see me smiling? So easily I share my grin with a friend or even a complete stranger out of kindness, but not as often with those I love.

Does my face reveal the contentment and joy that fills me on the inside? Sadly, probably not nearly enough.

This has left me wondering how often my children see me happy and know that I feel blessed to be their mom. Too often I am preoccupied with so many things and tasks and demands of daily living. I think that I easily wear that on my face and forget to crack a smile. Worry and anxiety quickly stomp out the true happiness that fills me on the inside.

My son ought to know that children are the light of the household. Children do bring joy and smiles to life. They are a blessing. MY children are all of those things to me and MY house. As his mom I need to remind him of that and show him, even if by a simple smile.

When I least expect it, my children may be watching and gauging the happiness of our household by the smile or furrowed brow that I display. Let my children never wonder if our family is truly happy or if mom and dad love being their parents. A simple smile on my face should be able to reassure them.

In addition to many hugs and 'I love you', what an easy and simple gift I can afford to give them every day.

'Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing.' -Mother Teresa

Baby Love

2011-11-03T10:00:00.000-05:00

For Colleen and anyone else who enjoys baby bump photos.

Baby Gem and I today, at 26 weeks:

Now, before you all leave comments on how small the bump is or that you can't see it, etc. (because I know you all too well), keep in mind that Lily took the photo and it's not zoomed. Also, the light pink shirt is forgiving. I did do my best to show the belly, but I could only turn in so many different angles and have m little photographer take so many shots. I'll do my best to wear something tighter and unforgiving next time.

This was one of my first baby belly shots this time around. I just keep forgetting! I suddenly realized last week that I haven't been nearly as vigilant with the photos with this pregnancy. Trust me, we are growing bigger and thriving as the weeks keep flying by. Eager for the end, but also firmly grasping each day and moment as Gianna keeps sailing through her first year.

Speaking of my little eight month old, I had my photographer snap this photo with my out-of-womb baby:

Baby love, all around.

Halloween Hooligans

2011-11-01T07:27:00.005-05:00

Excuse the poor picture quality and lighting, I quickly snapped these photos as we were heading out the door trick-or-treating. Good thing I did, since Gianna had enough of Halloween and the night life by time we made it back home.

My police officer and his rowdy jailbirds:

Mommy's lil pumpkin:

Overheard:: Say What?!

2011-10-31T06:48:00.000-05:00

"Next year for my birthday, I think I want to get an iPad."

This was said while my six year old was lazing around on the couch playing Angry Birds on my iPod Touch.

My, my, how different things are from when I was a kid. I remember happily sitting in the corner reading a book for hours. Who knew back in the 1980's and 1990's how techy our culture could become?

There, now don't I sound old?

By the way, in case you're wondering...I do have limits and if anyone is getting an iPad around here, it's gonna be mama. IF I really was into wishing for an iPad.

Little did I know back in the 80's and 90's how techy I would become.

Birthdays

2011-10-26T11:33:00.000-05:00

We celebrated Jonah's HALF birthday last Friday. Yes, because making sure to remember their actual birthday isn't difficult enough, why not celebrate twice a year?

Actually though, I've been sporadic about remembering to celebrate the half birthdays. A friend of mine always does for her kids and I thought it was a cute idea. Again, when I remember.

We only celebrate with cupcakes and other ways to make the day a little more special. Of course that doesn't keep a boy from dreaming about how super-awesome his half birthday is going to be.

He chose Funfetti cupcakes and frosting and printed pictures of his favorite Thomas engine, Diesel 10. Why is it that boys always pick the meanest/naughty character as their favorite?

The (half) birthday boy was quite pleased with the results:

As for me, I thoroughly enjoyed my chocolate cake with raspberry-cream cheese filling that my husband slaved over. YuMmY! A good man, he is. And excellent live-in baker.

I wish I could've shared a piece with all of you.

Thank you for all of the kind birthday wishes yesterday. They made my day!

Just Letting You Know....

2011-10-25T07:33:00.001-05:00

Today's my Birthday!

Most of the celebrating was done on Sunday with family, but I'm sure the kids will be more than happy to help me celebrate again today. We'll top it all off with Lily's fall piano recital this evening.

Feel free to send your birthday wishes my way, especially if you are normally quite shy and don't comment.

In thanks, I'll offer a prayer or two for each of you who encourage and brighten my day.

Autumn Daybook

2011-10-24T10:09:00.000-05:00

For Today...10.24.2011

Outside My Window...the trees are mostly bare and the leaves have been mowed and removed. I have a better vantage point of the lake across the county road from my house and enjoy the stillness of it.

I Am Thinking...about Christmas lists and gifts. I was able to get the kids to downsize their lists and hubby and I checked them twice and then set our limits. This will definitely help out the Christmas budget.

I Am Thankful For...a few new (to me) odds and ends maternity clothes that were sent my way. It's nice to add some different tops to the selection since I just wore maternity clothes last year and honestly got kind of sick of them.

I Am Reading...Love & Respect by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs. I'm glad that our Women's group chose this title since it's been collecting dust on my to-read pile for over a year.

I Am Creating...good intentions for repainting my living room one of these days. I just can't seem to decide on a color so that I don't have to change any of the other furnishings/decor in the room. It needs to get accomplished though since I've been on a mission for 2-3 years to get it done.

Around The House...I notice every speck of dirt/debris/bugs on the floor now that Gianna is crawling around 24/7. There's a lot more out there than I thought and if she finds it, she tries it.

From The Schoolroom...keeping on task and following the lesson plans well. Steady on. I'm also working on learning some simple sign language with the kids so we can use it with Gianna. I've found the My Smart Hands app on my iPod to be especially handy.

From The Kitchen...most days flying by the seat of my pants because nothing ever sound REALLY good to me lately. I do have a menu plan, but when we have many days away from home some of those aren't always feasible.

For The Rest Of The Week...Lily's piano lesson today; Lily's piano recital tomorrow evening; gymnastics for Lily and Tae Kwon Do for Jonah on Thursday; All Saints Day party with our homeschool group in the afternoon and then a Norwex party I'm hosting in the evening are on tap for Friday.

One Of My Favorite Things...hearing my baby giggle as the big kids play with her. She laughs at some of the silliest things.

Picture Thought I Am Sharing...this is my contribution to Clan Donaldson's post, Snapshots for a Sunday. What a fun idea! Check out what others were doing yesterday by clicking on my link to her post.

Never Enough Time

2011-10-19T08:14:00.000-05:00

Isn't that what it feels like? There never seems to be enough time. An agenda and list is always on the mind and the passing of time is always on the heart.

I've been here before and I'm sure the climatic change from summer to fall nudges me to some degree.

Whether wistful and happily settled or just accepting and resigned, thoughts on time and seasons are never too far away as children grow.

As Baby Gem and my baby belly grow, the weeks of pregnancy seem to zoom by as never before.

Gianna has been crawling now for three weeks and she is moving at such a rapid rate that we cannot believe she ever wasn't mobile. Her stage of exploration just propels her as she's now grown to be our eight month old baby. Again, a reminder that time is fleeting and there never is enough. That newborn babyhood seems like such a distant reality and the corner of walking and her first birthday is within my view.

My boy still surprises me and catches me off-guard when I stop and realize that he is just six (and a half) and not the seven year old I tend to presume. He's taking his own leaps and bounds of change. The biggest one was joining a Tae Kwon Do class just ten minutes away and *loving* it. Surprised as we were, all it took was one time sitting in watching a class to get him committed to it. He looks forward to his Tuesday evenings now and going to class with dad.

The passing of time and season does not go unnoticed by the mother's heart.

Lily turned nine last month and continues to excel and rise to the challenges of a third grader. While cursive writing proves to be a challenge, she has picked up on it amazingly well and continues to improve. She even chose to take on Astronomy this year for Science and is grasping some of those difficult concepts. She is a wonderful helper for me and 'mother hen' to Gianna.

While there doesn't seem to be enough time in each day as the needs of my family grow and change, the priorities and to do lists change as well. It all gets done at some point, although there rarely is time to just sit and rest. I'm trying to adjust and make changes as needed to grow in my vocation and more fully wear that beautiful mantle of motherhood.

These days are passing and making way for a new season to relish and enjoy. They are mine to embrace and build fond memories.

"And when night comes, and you look back over the day and see how fragmentary everything has been, and how much you planned that has gone undone, and all the reasons you have to be embarassed and ashamed: just take everything exactly as it is, put it in God's hands and leave it with him."

-St. Edith Stein

What's In A Name?

2011-10-14T08:31:00.003-05:00

Considering I'm currently going through a baby name quandary of sorts, Simcha's post today gave me a good chuckle this morning.

I just had a baby eight months ago for crying out loud, shouldn't I just use the leftover names we didn't use?

Well, that would just be too easy. And, some of those names just don't feel 'right' this time around.

What's a Catholic girl to do?

And what's the Catholic girl's husband to do for the next four months as she hashes and rehashes names in search of the perfect list?

Poor man.

(Almost) Wordless Wednesday: Baby Meets Leaves

2011-10-12T07:41:00.000-05:00

P.S--Baby liked leaves. So much so, that between the kids and I we could hardly keep her from eating them while shooting these photos. Hence, we had a small choking episode that followed later on. Man, kids can scare their mamas!

We All Have Favorites

2011-10-10T06:22:00.000-05:00

Of course I have a number of favorite blogs, but every once in a while I like to check out someone new. Do you do that too?

I've got my if-only-we-lived-closer-IRL-we'd-totally-be-friends bloggers, others who humor me with their posts, those who always leave me with food for thought and some I periodically visit.

I'm looking for a few new places to stop by and read.

Who are a few of your favorites? Who encourages you in your vocation, inspires or leaves you down-right laughing on the floor?

Please share, won't you?

Or perhaps you have your own blog, but haven't commented here in the past. Let me know who you are, I'd love to stop on by and say Hi!

From The Mailbox

2011-10-06T15:00:00.000-05:00

Have you received your Fall issue of Faith & Family yet?

I'm always excited to reach in my mailbox and find the latest issue waiting for me. I received mine late last week and have already enjoyed it cover-to-cover and marked several pages to return to.

Danielle Bean shared some delicious recipes in the Lovin' from the Oven section. We already tried the Baked Apple Oatmeal on Sunday after church and it was a family pleaser for sure. We'll be trying this recipe again.

I found Danielle's link on a previous Faith & Family Live! post that led me to the recipe over here.

I was also enlightened by Rebecca Teti's article On Sticking to It and inspired by Kate Wicker's Run, Mama, Run.

Countless advertisements always catch my eye, like the one for the movie titled The Greatest Miracle (You can catch the trailer over here). Or how about the new Glory Stories? It even includes a CD of Best-Loved Catholic Prayers that includes the new Mass responses to teach your children.

As always, Faith & Family has not disappointed this reader!

What's that you say? You don't subscribe to the magazine? Click on over now to subscribe or give a gift subscription.

**These opinions are strictly mine and this post written only to serve my readers. No goods or services were received for my plug of the magazine.

Look Familiar?

2011-10-05T08:08:00.001-05:00

In answer to yesterday's question.....

'Terk' from the Tarzan movie back in 1999!

Notice that hair? Gianna's seriously does the exact same thing every day, especially in the morning right out of the crib. It makes me crack up and I wish you could all see it in person. We love our little monkey!

Here's my favorite scene from the movie:

Happy Wednesday!

Name That Character

2011-10-04T07:21:00.000-05:00

What Disney character does my little girl remind you of?

Since my niece pointed out the similarity last weekend, we can't help but laugh when we think of it.

Any guesses?

I'll post the answer tomorrow.

Hint: Think 'newer' Disney movies, as in the 1990's to present. And, focus on one particular aspect of Miss Gianna that has a resemblance to the character.

See you tomorrow!

My St. Therese Story

2011-10-03T05:57:00.000-05:00

Inspired by Margaret who shared her story on St. Therese's feast(Saturday), I'm posting mine.

I'd always marveled at people who prayed novenas to St. Therese and received roses. And I mean LOTS of roses in answer to their prayers. These people couldn't help but find themselves immersed in roses everywhere they turned. My SIL is one of those people. In the past, I was not one of those people.

After struggling for a few years with an unexplained infertility diagnosis, I couldn't help but be drawn to St. Therese and the possibility that she would shower me with roses too. I knew my SIL was praying, so I thought I'd pile on the prayers as well.

I don't think I shared with anyone besides my husband that I was praying the novena. If I recall correctly, I just kept repeating the prayers daily. You know, because I couldn't just let up after praying for nine days.

At some point after that first round of the novena I received roses, randomly, from my SIL. I couldn't believe it! She didn't know I'd been praying and didn't know that I had been looking for my rose. Because, after all, answers like these to novenas such as these hadn't ever been given to me.

Months followed, but I was hopeful that in time the answer to our infertility issue would be fully found and a miraculous pregnancy would occur. I held on to the hope of the roses.

On June 11, the feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus that year, my lab results revealed that I was indeed pregnant. Two days later, at Mass in our small church, my eyes caught roses placed in front of the statues of Mary and Joseph. In our church, this is not a normal occurrence. Rarely in my nine years of living here have I seen roses at our church!

Throughout the pregnancy, my eyes caught small and big signs of roses all over. When I was taken in to the ER at 16 weeks pregnant, my ears perked as one of the attendants who cared for me said her name. I then pointed it out to my husband later. Her name was Rose. I smiled even then knowing that St. Therese was sending me a sign that she too was watching over me and the baby.

Even at Christmas time when I was just six weeks or so away from delivery, I found myself wavering. Fearing. Anxious. The dreaded what-ifs and unknowns of labor and delivery and if everything would dare turn out perfect and our baby would be healthy. Christmas Eve mass brought its own signs. We sang the song, 'Lo, How a ROSE 'er blooming' and our priest in his homily talked about how God grants the desires of our hearts (remember my blog name, right?) and He protects those and sees them through. While celebrating with family, I also noticed an etched rose on a glass that caught my eye. Little wonders and signs that I suddenly couldn't help but be reassured by seeing.

In the end, our Gianna ROSE was born happy, healthy and perfect. We knew we had to give honor to St. Therese in some way and decided that by giving her the middle name Rose would remind us of the extra roses she sent our way.

Since then, I can't recount the ways that roses and signs have come my way. Too many to mention and count. I continue to give gratitude and thanks to St. Therese, because she surely is the saintly sender of them all.

Thankful Thursday

2011-09-29T07:52:00.000-05:00

Thankful for tall pines that take your breath away...

Thankul for blue-eyed babies, just like their father...

Thankful for autumn scenery and gloriously beautiful days...

Thankful for a husband who takes time off work and puts family time first...

Thankful for little boys who challenge, but make me melt all the same...

Thankful for nine year old girls who grow up in the blink of an eye and say some of the most insightful things...

Thankful for 7 month old baby girl who one day decides to make crawling her new full time job *sigh*...

Thankful for progesterone shots that help me maintain pregnancies, despite my absolute dread of them. It's worth it, for the baby's sake...

Thankful for a sweet baby bundle who curls up in a ball, just to show off his or her contortionist ways...

Can you see that little leg and foot stretched out up there way above his or her head? It was a good thing we weren't trying to find out gender, it would've been near impossible last week.

Thankful for sweetness in florals, pinks and purples with untamable hair...

Thankful for nature's little things that leave my children in awe and wonder...

Thankful Thursdays
A time to remember to be thankful
A pause in the week for praise,
thanksgiving and thinking positively
in addition to the normal daily praise
we need to give God.

Celebrating Nine-Round 2

2011-09-27T07:20:00.000-05:00

On Lily's birthday we celebrated with cake and friends. On Sunday we celebrated with some family and hosted brunch after Mass. YUM!

Lily's choice for this cake was a homemade chocolate cake with vanilla buttercream frosting.

Inspired by Jamie's piano cake, Lily knew that was what she wanted. I googled images of piano cakes and found a round cake that would work and leave us with few leftovers.(We've had quite enough cake for one week!)

This is the finished product:

It turned out pretty well, if I do say so myself. And the birthday girl was quite pleased.

Nine is fine, especially when you get to celebrate this much!

Reason #84 Why We Homeschool...

2011-09-26T06:30:00.000-05:00

...a Friday Family Field Trip!

When Reed told me several weeks ago that his monthly region meeting in his line of work was at Itasca State Park, I knew it was an opportunity for a Field Trip.

We were all eagerly looking forward to it and I prayed that the weather would be autumn-crisp and perfect.

Friday's weather was just that.

We awoke the kids earlier than usual to make our way out on our almost 2 1/2 hour trek. The sun shone and the kids were all in unusually chipper moods to start out our journey.

Hubby made it in time for his meeting and headed in. I knew we potentially had almost two hours to kill before meeting up with him at lunch time. We found the nearest source for a printed map, hit the restrooms, checked out the gift shop and made our way back outdoors to explore.

There were so many trails to choose from and we wandered a bit trying to find the correct one to lead us to the observation tower. Apparently, while map skills are normally a strong suit of mine, they aren't so much when I am trying to use a feeble, pregnant brain.

We did, however, find this fella:

And the swingset/play area:

In the end we finally asked a worker for some directions! About to head on the correct trail, Reed happened to text me letting me know his meeting was finished. Already!! Perfect timing (I guess we wandered for so long for a reason, after all)since we were still close enough to the lodge for him to catch up.

We set out to find the 100 foot, old fire observation tower. What wonderful hiking we experienced and enjoyed as a family! We couldn't have asked for a better day, weather-wise.

We made it!

The big kids headed to the top with daddy. Mommy stayed on sure ground with sleeping Gianna in the stroller. Who am I kidding? I probably wouldn't have made it all the way to the top any way.

The adventurous three at the top:

Some of the view:

A look at mommy from the top of the tower:

After that we hiked on back to the lodge for lunch, relishing every step and marveling at the beauty that surrounded us.

Lily and I, stopping for a quick photo(Every once in a while mommy does actually get in a photo):

After an excellent lunch at the lodge restaurant, it was time then to drive 5 miles and make our way to the headwaters of the Mississippi River. Not too long of a walk on the trail to find what we had set out to see. I was surprised to see actually how small of an area the water covered to begin the Mighty Mississippi. I don't know what I expected, but I guess maybe a bigger body of water. Either way, it was fun to say we saw it.

Crossing the rocks with daddy:

Can you see their faces below? They say "We love fun family outings!!"

Another day of precious memories and beautiful moments, all of us together.

Celebrating Nine

2011-09-22T10:10:00.000-05:00

My firstborn, Miss Lily Mae, turned 9 yesterday!

I was telling my husband yesterday that I couldn't possibly imagine going through the almost 24 hour (med. free)labor and being overdue 11 days EVER again like I had for Lily. But, she was so worth it!

Lily's day started out with birthday hugs and kisses from all of us. Thankfully, nine isn't too old for those yet. She appreciated them.

The birthday girl ruled the day for the most part and chose homemade tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches for lunch. She certainly is easy to please.

Lily wanted to have a couple of friends over who happen to be sisters. We had invited them over for a couple hours to come party/play/eat pizza for supper and have cake with us. They had so much fun!

The cake Lily chose was strawberry with vanilla buttercream frosting and she wanted a butterfly on the top. Deciding to bypass numerous decorating sprinkles and candies, I opted for using colored marshmallows on the wings instead. I had the cake all frosted before the party, but waited to put the marshmallows on. It ended up ideal since the kids all wanted to help, so they each decorated a portion of the wings.

It turned out pretty cute, don't you think?

We all enjoyed celebrating Lily and the beginning of her last year in the single digits. Yikes! That's hard to believe! And the Birthday Girl agreed that it was a perfect birthday.

We still have one more family celebration coming up this weekend, so I'm sure I'll post photos (especially of the cake Lily chose) of that one too! You never can celebrate too much when you are NINE.

Speaking Honestly

2011-09-19T19:18:00.000-05:00

Some days you can wake up rested and rejuvenated. The sun is shining, the birds are singing and the day's outlook is beautiful. All the children are well rested, happily eat their breakfasts, get dressed for the day, do their chores and eagerly await the teacher at their school desks.

THAT was not today.

It's Monday, let's start with that. They aren't always my favorite after a family weekend that fills me up and let's me down with the start of the new week. It's harder to get out of bed on Monday, harder to get my exercise in and just harder in so many other areas of the day. There's just a lot to do on Monday.

Add on top of that a restless night for baby who is apparently teething and me lazily laying in bed just a little longer. There are my other children who should've gotten their adequate amount of sleep because I let them sleep in as needed, but seemingly that was still not enough. Instead, I was greeted with revolt, tears, crabbiness and utter chaos.

Not exactly the picture perfect homeschooling, at-home mom ideal that we all like to portray, huh?

In the end school was pushed back and not easily accomplished, but we did get through it. Baby took short (like 15 minute) naps and I tried to roll with it. To throw the day off a little more, I had a scheduled OB appointment and ultrasound this afternoon to get to as well.

It all happened. The day is almost done and we all survived.

Today won't go down in the books as one of our best days ever and that Homeschooling Mom of the Year Award will surely bypass me this year, but that's ok. Tomorrow is a new day, thankfully.

I just wonder if any other pregnant mother has actually looked forward to a doctor appointment just to have a little time alone and get away? Today, I sure did.

Searching For The Right Fit

2011-09-16T07:01:00.003-05:00

This was my status last night on Facebook:

"Trying to find an activity for Jonah to be a part of, even if it's short term. He's not into sports, but he needs to get around some boys his age. Ideas?? Activities? Clubs? HELP!!"

Now I send out the same message to you. Can you offer any suggestions?

Mothering a boy is different than things are with Lily. He WAS my 'baby' for almost six years after all. So, despite him being a stubborn, head strong at times and energy zapper when he's in a funk, I sure love this little man.

He holds the key to my heart in a unique way and therefore, perhaps I need to let him grow wings more than I have let him thus far. Ok, so it's not like he's a teenager or something. He's six and has plenty time to still grow up.

But any way....

We are trying to figure out how to get him involved in something worthwhile that builds his character and confidence. Something that helps him learn how to work with others and preferably has more boys in it than himself. Because he's around his sisters and mom all day and most often with friends and family who only have girls his age, we think he could benefit from some male companionship.

Reed has considered starting a Blue Knights group (with my help), but even that may be difficult to find enough boys in our circles that are the right age. And, although Jonah was keen on the idea initially, as of late he has decided that if HE can't be the 'leader' of a boys club, then he doesn't want to be a part of a club. Stubborn, I remind you.

We were seriously considering checking out Martial Arts and have been looking in to it. The drawback is that we aren't getting returned phone calls to answer our questions and another place has disconnected phone service. Out of business?

Hubby has also looked in to Boy Scouts/Cub Scouts. I think the whole idea of having to go camping pretty much makes hubby shy away from that one. I then remind him that sometimes we have to put aside our own dislikes and comfort zones in order to encourage and help our children.

Jonah did try t-ball this past spring. He liked it a bit and it was six weeks long and once a week. That was ideal for him.

Other interests? No sports interests. And we've reached pretty far (even offering wrestling, despite my best judgment and dislike for it). He just loves to use his imagination, play Thomas trains and is fascinated by the idea of film making/movie making.

Our other drawback in the whole thing is the fact that we live at least 10-18 miles away from towns that provide even some of the things I've mentioned. It's another drive in to 'town', but worth it if we can truly find something that is just right for Jonah.

Can you help me, help him? I welcome any ideas (even far-fetched ones), suggestions or feedback on any of the above or something I haven't mentioned.

We'd love to help him find just the right fit.

Strawberry Poke Cake

2011-09-15T16:44:00.000-05:00

Rushing around last week to come up with a quick cake to make on the fly for our anniversary (aka Blessed Mother Mary's birthday, which we also celebrate), I stumbled upon a Strawberry Poke Cake recipe.

I was searching for something strawberry since that was the flavor we chose for our wedding cake. Although I found many that sounded yummy, I just didn't have the time for them.

The Poke Cake served us well and was a light and creamy treat after our meal.

I followed the Betty Crocker Raspberry Poke Cake recipe and just substituted strawberry jello. Using a boxed white cake mix, jello and whipped topping made this quick and easy, which is exactly what I needed that day.

Pardon the photo and the lack of perfectly cut and plated cake--I snapped it quick before I ~~stuffed my face~~ relished every bite.

(Almost) Wordless Wednesday: Butter Baby

2011-09-14T10:11:00.000-05:00

This also could've been titled 'The things I let child #3 do that I NEVER would've allowed my firstborn to do'.

Now you know how Gianna has become my chunky monkey. I let her eat sticks of butter.

Kidding, of course.

And I do so L-O-V-E my babies with their little chubbers (my name for their thighs), because every one of my children have had them.

Oh.dear.sweet.cream.

Just A Glimpse

2011-09-13T06:53:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite things to do is peek in on my kids when they are asleep. Sometimes it's a feeling of relief that the long and difficult day is behind us.

Sometimes it's just to behold their dreamy faces and listen to the rythmic breathing.

With my baby it's usually one more look to be sure that she's breathing, isn't laying on her belly and has settled down.

No matter the age of my children, I still find it tugging the heartstrings of this mother's heart. It's usually a quick glance, but it's enough to make me wistful and just want to cuddle my growing little people.

I wish I could capture each and every one of these glimpses since they are few and far between amidst the bustle of every day life.

These days I'm eager to hold tight to what is right in front of me and not rush away the moment. The kids grow up whether I want them to or not, whether I've got my eye on them or I don't. They each are at different stages and yet each reaching for their own kind of independence.

I catch one more backwards glance as I leave the room and realize that I, like them, am still growing and changing right alongside them. With each stage and season they enter, I am called to a new kind of mothering.

It's good for all of us.

Bountiful Harvest

2011-09-09T11:26:00.000-05:00

I know I mention it every year, but this time of year always makes me feel a little like a Pioneer. You know, like the Ingalls Family. I've been busy these last weeks canning, freezing and storing away food for the winter.

I guess it also makes me feel a little like a squirrel too.

Our garden has served us well this summer and been plentiful.

-The green beans produced enough for me to freeze many meals for later use and several meals fresh from the garden.

-My parents picked up 10 dozen ears of corn for our family from a local farmer in their area. We cut it off the ears and froze over a dozen bags.

-My parents were also our source of apples this year from their abundant two trees, which provided 12 qts. apple pie filling, 9 qts. applesauce that we canned and another 8 freezer containers of applesauce.

-Our tomatoes haven't done too bad, although they are awfully small romas this year for some reason. They have already produced 16 qts. spaghetti sauce, 6 qts. V8 juice and 13 pints tomato soup. I still have plenty more to ripen, but I think we'll be finished up soon.

-There are still potatoes to be dug and squash to pick, bake and freeze this fall yet.

Although it's a lot of work and about now I'm sick of seeing the produce and dealing with it, I always remind myself of that rewarding feeling I have in the winter months. It's a good feeling to pull out one of those jars from the shelf and reap the benefits of the extra effort I'm making now during the harvest.

The homegrown taste just can't be beat!

To The Man I Love

2011-09-08T06:10:00.000-05:00

Ten years ago today we were the Bride and Groom.
Today we are the Husband and Wife.

It's true that God brought you to me at just the perfect time. He made me for you and you for me. I truly cannot imagine being nearly as blessed without you in my life.
So blessed, that when I try to list all of the many ways you fulfill your role as husband, I am overwhelmed by the limitless ways you faithfully do that daily.

Yes, you were my knight, my prince charming.
You came into my life when I relied most on God showing me exactly who was my perfect mate.
You were ready and so was I.

To be together was so easy and still is.
To connect, communicate and love so well hardly was believable.

After our whirlwind romance, we settled in and built a home and a family.

If the walls of this home, our home, could talk they would be able to share the joys and happiness that have filled countless days in our marriage together.

They could retell of sorrow and pain so immeasurable at times, that we could not help but be drawn closer to one another, God and our faith.

Our marriage has become unshakable.

In ten years we have ridden some amazing highs and carried each other through valleys so low our love-struck eyes could never have foreseen.

You have held my hand and walked beside me despite my many flaws.

You have always remained attentive to me and my needs and desires, most often putting all else before yourself.

With kindness and compassion, love and loyalty, patience and joy you have nurtured our love and our marriage over these years.

To daily walk beside a man filled with so much grace, strength and courage, I am humbled and honored. You still are my knight, my prince charming.

I look forward to the many years ahead together and the many ways that we will continue to grow and build upon our marriage that has been rooted over these first ten years.

I cannot imagine how many more ways God will see to it that we are blessed in our sacrament of marriage.

Thank you for the man you are, the husband and father you've become and the treasure you are to me.

I love you dearly, Reed. Happy Tenth Anniversary!

Back To School

2011-09-06T16:30:00.001-05:00

We made it through our first day back to school! Hooray! Well, not that there was any doubt. It was more of a question HOW exactly it would all work out. It's tough to say what the days and weeks ahead hold, but we take it one school day at a time. And today was good.

I'll also have to interject that we didn't start with a full-on, all subjects kind of day either. Some courses we'll add next week with our first full week of school. Others, due to their shorter length will be added in October.

If nothing else, it will keep my students guessing. Ha! More like, it will keep us all on task and interested in our classes as we move through the year.

Remember my mention of Homeschool Tracker? Seriously, it's my new friend and we are working well together. I couldn't be happier ~~more nerdy~~.

1st Grader

3rd Grader

Classroom Helper

How was your first day of school?

Summer's Last Hurrah

2011-09-05T18:30:00.000-05:00

When the calendar turns to September, summer comes to a close. At least around here it does. Not long ago when my days were not marked by a school year, it really just meant another turning of the page.

With two school age children in our household, it's a new season. Bringing on September means gearing up for hitting the books. In ways it brings uneasiness of the daunting task of covering all that we need to for another school year, but on the other hand brings relief in the rhythm and routine of our days.

As the page turns, the final sands of the summer hourglass come to pass. It's in these final days that we bask in their glory and fill them to overflowing.

On Friday I took the kids to visit friends and their new baby boy. We also hit a local hot spot only open in the summer. I hadn't had the stomach or gumption to drive over there all summer, but now that I had both it was a top priority! Hot dog, burgers and fries fresh off the grill enjoyed outdoors at the counter with the swivel stools. We enjoyed it so much that I neglected the camera and reveled in the moment.

With shakes (Cherry-marshmallow for the boy and Banana for the girl) and Smores Cyclone (aka Blizzard knock-off) for mommy in hand, we headed to the park. Serenity and beauty awaited us as we had the place to ourselves. I couldn't help but snap a few photos of the fun. The only thing missing was daddy who was slaving away at work.

Sunday brought a crisp autumn-like day and we took advantage of the chance to meet up with my parents and grandma. We headed down the road and drove an hour to capture the fleeting beautiful blooms at the gardens, one of my favorite places. We wandered the grounds and with camera in hand I snapped away.

Though there was an intermittent rain shower or two, we still had several hours of quality family time and that was what mattered most. We finished up at the playground and feasted on perhaps our last picnic of the season.

Today whizzed by as the whole summer has, but we made time to squeeze in all that we could. Reed took the kids fishing this morning since he had promised he would one more time this weekend. A bit nippy, but they still caught a couple and as always, enjoyed their time with daddy.

We hit the bike trail this afternoon for a family ride. Gianna tried out my BIL's bike trailer for the first time and enjoyed it most of the ride. It was ideal weather to enjoy the sunshine, the breeze and the scenery just the five of us.

Tomorrow will bring a new season, a new school season. As tired as I am right now, I'm not sure this teacher is ready to begin homeschooling year #4. By the morning (and after some coffee) I think I'll feel differently.

Good luck to all of you tomorrow as you begin your new year, whether at home or sending your children out the door. Either way, I'm sure each of us will have stories to tell and pictures to post.

Sew Easy

2011-08-31T18:46:00.000-05:00

Lily recently decided that she wanted to try her hand at a little sewing. I had her try a couple of buttons first just to give the needle and thread a whirl. We then ventured to the local library and found a book or two for her to peruse. We stumbled upon a simple and easy one for beginners that included a few patterns as well. It's all hand sewing, but right up her alley and ideal for her age level and just starting out.

She started with a basic pillow using some fabric and filler I had leftover at home. She'd been making her list on which future projects she wanted to advance to as well. We finally went to JoAnn's the other day to purchase the needed fabric for a hat for herself and a version for Gianna. Lily had already decided that a lightweight fleece that the pattern required probably wasn't enough for our Minnesota winter. Instead she thought it would be suitable and just right for our crisp fall weather and I agreed.

She worked hard the other day trying to perfectly space her stitches and she's been working hard on threading her needle and knots too.

Lily was quite pleased with the final product and I think it turned out quite well for her first official sewing endeavor. Note that the stitching does show on the top. If you are like my husband who quietly asked me privately later whether the hat was suppose to be that way or not...the answer is yes. The book never indicated for the student to turn it inside out so as not to show the stitching. Struck me as odd later on, but I think it's cute either way. I may try to gently guide her to maybe try it the other way for future hats.

Isn't it cute? I'm so proud of her for her diligence and patience in her first project.

I've already renewed the library book once, but may have to again. Plus, she doesn't know it yet, but I did already buy the book from Amazon for her birthday too.

We'll see what future products she can whip up and how long it holds her interest. I think it's a good skill to learn and master to some degree and I'd love to see her keep on creating.

Who knows, maybe there will be a seamstress in this household after all.

Wordless Wednesday: Grandparents Edition

2011-08-24T09:56:00.000-05:00

Boy Wonders

2011-08-23T07:50:00.000-05:00

The other day I overheard my son out of the blue talking to my husband about babies.

"Dad, I guess when my wife has babies I'll finally find out where babies come out. You know because you go with mommy to the hospital when she has us. So, when my wife goes to the hospital I'll finally know the answer."

Deep down, I think my husband breathed a sigh of relief that our son hadn't asked any questions and just figured out his own answer this time around.

Who cares if he's 25 before he finds his answer? He's fine with waiting.

-----------------

Yesterday, while driving in the van with my boy and my baby, we were chatting about seating arrangements in the van. I reminded him that when the new baby arrives, he or she will be in the first row with Gianna.

He excitedly asked, 'Then Lily will be in the back with me ALL the time?'

'Yup, all the time. That way the little ones will be closer to me up front.'

He then questioned, 'But when we have another baby what are we going to drive? We won't all fit in here.'

I replied with my new answer (because I've been looking in to this sort of thing), 'Ooohhh....then mommy can get a Swagger Wagon.'

He stopped and thought. Then randomly, 'How old are you?'

I told him and he thought some more.

And then, 'That's A LOT of years before you're forty! You'll still have a lot of chances to have more kids!'

Once again a new pregnancy has brought about a new batch of childhood questions and wonders. It's so fun to hear how their minds work.

And apparently a reference I made once to women being childbearing until age forty has made an indelible mark in my children's memories and they think it's a magical cut-off point.

Thankful Thursday

2011-08-18T07:36:00.000-05:00

There are always so many wonderful things to be thankful for because we truly are abundantly blessed with so much.

But this week I'm especially thankful for Gianna who turned 6 months old yesterday! What joy and love this little girl has brought to our home. I'm so thankful for her good health and disposition, along with being able to adapt really well to whatever else is going on.

For baby girls in flowers and headbands

For taking-it-easy and relaxing baby

For sleeping beauty

For bright, blue eyed girl

For fuzzy haired, growing up too fast baby girl

We can't imagine how much we were missing before you came in to our lives. We love you Little Lady!

It's The Little Things

2011-08-17T10:41:00.000-05:00

My latest indulgences:

Now before you comment letting me know the dangers of both of these carbonated soda beverages, realize that I know that a pregnant woman probably shouldn't give in to such indulgences. Also, rest assured that I only have either of these once or MAYBE twice a week. I get one or the other in me and it sustains my ~~need~~ craving until the next time I see a refreshing bottle at the checkout counter or their logo on a pop machine somewhere.

Sometimes a girl just can't resist!

But sometimes the little things that make life a little sweeter don't come in the form of treats and beverages.

Sometimes they come via a simple download on the computer.

Another little thing adding to my giddiness this past week has been Homeschool Tracker. I went with the FREE basic edition since it suits my current needs and it's perfect. I almost have all the lesson plans finished up until February, which is as far out as I'm planning for now. We'll see how well I like it and how it works out once school actually begins, but I think it will be quite beneficial for this ~~obsessively organized~~ geek chic homeschooling mom.

Pilgrims On A Journey

2011-08-15T06:15:00.000-05:00

When we became pregnant after four years, sustained the pregnancy and gave birth to a perfect and precious little girl, we were grateful beyond all telling.

Prior to Gianna's pregnancy, Reed and I sought the intercession of St. Gianna. You may remember our encounter with her and the pilgrimage we took two years ago to the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in La Crosse, Wisconsin. During Gianna's pregnancy we continued to seek St. Gianna's guidance both for ourselves and also for my physician as we went through a few rough patches along the way. We knew that a return trip, a pilgrimage of thanksgiving, needed to be made to the Shrine.

When we surprisingly were blessed again and found out this summer that a new little one will be joining the family, it became evident that we indeed needed to express our gratitude. We made plans to make the trip as a family and also invited my parents again (they went along last time) and also my in-laws this time too (they had not been there before).

Last week we ventured out for a few days to enjoy our summertime trip. Everything went off without a hitch. The weather cooperated, the kids had good behavior, Gianna endured the lengthy van ride and all of the other additions to the trip (besides the Shrine itself) were perfect.

I thought I'd catch up and share some photos for those of you who may not have been to the La Crosse area or the Shrine.

Along the way we had to make a pit stop and chose a small town named Zumbrota, which also happened to be the home of the only original covered bridge left in Minnesota.

The next morning we headed to the Shrine to spend most of the day. The weather was overcast, so it helped keep the temps. down and we were able to enjoy all of the walking around the grounds.

The beautiful Votive Chapel where I had them light a candle for 30 days for my readers' intentions.

Lily with her patron, Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha, Lily of the Mohawks.

A sculpture of St. Joseph the Workman, along with Cardinal Burke and the couple who donated the land for the shrine.

At the top of the hill sits the church, memorial for the unborn, stations of the cross and rosary walk. It is so serene and beautiful to behold.

As last time, I had to get a photo by the painting of St. Gianna. Except this time, I was holding my 'Gianna baby' (as babies conceived through the intercession of St. Gianna are called) and my hidden baby too.

Our trip included many of the same stops as last time, including lunch at the shrine restaurant,Culina Mariana. I cannot rave about their food enough! I was eager to once again dine there because I enjoyed it so much last time. Again, they did not disappoint. If you ever visit the shrine, you've got to stop there for a meal.

We also made another stop at Rudy's Drive-In where you eat in your vehicle and the waitresses come out on rollerskates. The kids requested we go there again this time because they loved it so much last time. A good meal for your buck too!!

Before heading out of La Crosse, we visited the Children's Museum again too and let the kids run around. Or in Gianna's case, enjoy the many sights and sounds from the stroller.

Along the route home we stopped in Pepin, Wisconsin at an ice cream shop and the Laura Ingalls Wilder museum (it's the town of her birth).

We also made an overnight stop in Red Wing, Minnesota where the Red Wing boot factory is located. It's also the home of the world's largest boot, which we stopped to see.

What an enjoyable and memorable trip to share with both sets of grandparents and our family. It was a lot of fun and I think everyone had a really good time. These last photos were taken near the end of the trip. See? The kids still are in good moods!

*More information on the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe can be found on their website.

Wordless Wednesday: Baby Meets Lawn

2011-08-10T06:20:00.000-05:00

Online Curriculum Blog Hop!

2011-08-05T10:53:00.017-05:00

I'm finally jumping in on Shower of Roses Curriculum Blog Hop (great idea, Jessica!) in hopes to get rid of a few excess items around the school room.

These items all come from a pet-free, smoke-free home and are in excellent condition. Most all of them have barely been cracked open and are just taking up space on the shelves. Hopefully you'll find something you can use or pass on to a friend.

Shipping costs will be $3.50 for 1-2 items and $5.oo for 3-6 items to cover the cost of packaging and Media Rate shipping inside the United States.

Feel free to email me (see sidebar) with any questions. Or just leave a comment and I'll get back to you.

Thanks for stopping by! I'd love to see these books get put to better use by another family and to clear my shelves for the new curriculum for the year.

* The Usborne First Book of Art (including projects); spiral bound; Asking $10

* ~~Lessons in Responsibility for Boys & Lessons in Responsibility for Girls~~; Asking $9 eachSOLD!

Inside:

* Christian Crafts book for Preschool-Kindergarten (Bible story simple crafts); Asking $3

* ~~Seton Pre-Kindergarten Activities Book~~; Asking $3SOLD!

* ~~Character Education Workbooks for Kindergarten (Cooperation, Honesty, Respect(2)~~; Asking $1 eachSOLD!

* Who Am I? Teacher's Manual for Preschool/Kindergarten (Image of God series); Asking $6

* My Fun With Words (A-K and L-Z hardcover dictionaries); Asking $18 for both

Inside:

* My Word Book, My Color Book, My Shape Book & My Number Book; hardcover, brand new; encourage your child to read and recognize words both in English and Spanish; Asking $10 each or $35 for all four

Inside:

* ~~The Mass Book for Children~~ & ~~Little Acts of Grace~~; Asking $1 eachSOLD!

* ~~Leading the Little Ones to Mary~~; Asking $1 SOLD!

Be sure and check out other great curriculum deals while they last over at the Online Curriculum Blog Hop!

Just When I Thought I Had It All Figured Out...

2011-08-04T07:43:00.000-05:00

God chuckled and said, "SURPRISE!!"

Baby says, "Hello Readers!"

'Baby Gem' this week at 13 weeks and due to arrive February 9, 2012.

I guess God has a sense of humor after all. And I'm so glad He's got everything under control and taken care of.*

*I can say this now after getting over the initial shock that lasted several weeks.lol.

**The name 'Baby Gem' came from a text I received from a friend when I shared the news. She reminded me that God had this wonderful gem in mind for me all along and everything was going to be just fine.

Attention!

2011-08-03T14:49:00.000-05:00

In the midst of your day tomorrow, you may want to stop in here. Yes, I may actually have a post worth reading tomorrow. Or at least I think it will be worth your while.

I bet you're already on the edge of your seat, aren't you?

Ok, so maybe it won't be that riveting after all.

We'll see what you think after you read it.

August Daybook

2011-08-02T07:07:00.005-05:00

For Today...8.2.2011

Outside My Window...another storm is passing through with plenty of wind, thunder and lightning. And of course, more rain.

I Am Thinking...about new babies that are arriving both for friends IRL and online. Colleen added handsome Alexander Blaise to her household last week, have you seen him yet?

I Am Thankful For...our home and yard being spared any major damage during these storms and hard rains we've been having lately.

I Am Reading...nothing at the moment, but I'm waiting for a book to become available from the library. I did just finish Summerhill Secrets Vol.1 by Beverly Lewis over the weekend.

I Am Creating...lesson plans in my head for the upcoming school year and many ideas for the coming months. Now I need to start putting forth some energy in acting upon them.

Around The House...boxes of school books are arriving and I'm waiting on one last one yet. Maybe then I'll get in the right groove and ready to start those lesson plans.

From The Schoolroom...cobwebs, dead ladybugs, dust and piles of last year's school books. It needs a major clean and re-organizing SOON.

From The Kitchen...we had fresh blueberry pie over the weekend and finished it last night. I think we'll need to bake the new Betty Crocker FUN da-middles I bought last week.

For The Rest of the Week...not a whole lot, thankfully. A nice light week on tap for us here after plenty of busy-ness last week.

One of My Favorite Things...a Sunday afternoon at the beach with friends, some boating/tubing for the kids and a supper cookout. It was a perfect ending to the weekend.

Picture Thought I am Sharing...my precious sleeping baby. Makes me melt every time.

Thanks again to The Simple Woman's Daybook for hosting.

Adding It All Up

2011-07-28T09:23:00.005-05:00

20 teen boys + 4 seminarians + 1 amazing priest = A really great Vocations Camp

If the cooks are tired after meal planning and prep for two days, I think there was even a hint of exhaustion from the campers yesterday as well.

Fit all of this into two days and I would be too:

- Swimming, football, Frisbee, capture the flag, water balloon fight

- Daily Mass, rosary, morning & evening prayer, an evening of praise & worship, adoration, confession, quiet prayer

- Food!

- Daily talks and testimonials from the seminarians and Fr. G, including the lives of the Saints

- Mandatory rest/quiet times

- Camping overnight (including one late night due to seeking shelter during a potentially dangerous storm)

I'm guessing we all slept pretty good last night and some of those boys are maybe dragging a little today, but it's worth it.

**Lest you think our efforts were heroic in nature, I must admit that I had my parents here to help with the kids and the camp where needed. We also had help from others as well and it made the task so much more manageable. Not to mention, we had breakfast help from two of the seminarians each morning too.

Simply Irresistible

2011-07-26T07:39:00.000-05:00

If kisses could earn this girl money toward her college education, she'd be filling out applications next week.

We just can't get enough of those cheeks and the overwhelming love we have for her.

Too bad she couldn't get a full ride 'Most Kissable' scholarship. She'd definitely be over-qualified.

**I realize I'm completely biased and there are seriously a ton of other worthy contendors out there. Here's to our beautiful babies!!

Just Call Me 'Cook'

2011-07-24T15:06:00.000-05:00

It's that time again when I trade in (to some extent) my mom gear and get out the apron to become camp cook for a couple days.

It's Vocations Camp time! We've enjoyed it so much in the past and honestly, while it's a lot of work and preparation, it has become a favorite part of our summer.

As in the past, I'm not in the kitchen alone. Reed helps me IMMENSELY (or do I help him??), family lends a hand and a few members of our parish help too.

It's sure to be a good time, but it also looks like we may have to contend with that hot, humid and stormy weather. That may not be so fun.

Our count is at 17 young men, 4 seminarians and 1 priest. Our biggest group yet!

So, if you can spare a prayer or two, they would be appreciated!

Bon Appetit!

Wordless Wednesday: First Cereal

2011-07-20T06:27:00.000-05:00

p.s. She didn't really like it.

Can't We Just Go Back To Rabbit Ears?

2011-07-15T08:12:00.000-05:00

Isn't that what they used to call those antenna on the top of the T.V.? Wasn't television just simpler then? Not that I'd know. Most of my life I've had the privilege of cable or satellite t.v.

Is there any way to keep it simple these days? AND not pay an outrageous amount of money each month?

This is my new quest.

Here's the deal: Soon after moving in here, we put an ~~eye sore~~ antenna on top of our already tall, two story house here in this geographic oddity of land. (read: what some may call 'in the boonies')Being that we are nowhere near even the local affiliates of the mainstream networks, the reception is less than clear even under the best circumstances.

We have had satellite for most of the time we've lived here because the lack of reception drove me nuts. Fine and dandy until the monthly bill keeps creeping higher and higher and took a $6 jump earlier this year. And we're just paying for the most basic package!

With the realization recently that we're spending nearly $600/year on television of all things, we're re-hashing new ideas to simplify and save money.

We already have wireless internet, so that improves video gazing online. There's got to be some way to get t.v. through there, even if we have to boost up to the next level for the internet. We'd still be saving money.

I know there is a cable to purchase and connect the laptop to the t.v. and watch that way, but can we get regular ABC, CBS, NBC channels? I've heard of things like Hulu, does that work? What else is out there?

I hate to be a bother and ask for your help AGAIN....but....I just had to throw it out there.

I thought I'd test my readers' technical knowledge (or perhaps even your tech-savvy husbands) and implore your assistance. What's the easiest way to still watch my beloved Biggest Loser and Dancing With The Stars AND save our budget?

Our pocketbook (and my husband) will thank you if we can figure out a good transition that will work for us.

Summer Is For Adventure

2011-07-14T06:21:00.000-05:00

We are having a couple days reprieve from the heat and boy am I grateful. Seriously, that is NOT my kind of weather and it was wearing on me. Throw in a teething four month old and it was a recipe for lots of crabbiness all around.

Thankfully we all start each day anew and hopefully refreshed.

The breeze and sunshine gently beckoned us outdoors for the entire afternoon yesterday. That was just enough to get my kids' imaginations going again and with a little help from branches, sticks and lots of mosquito repellent, they returned to their beloved spot, the enchanted forest. Due to the mosquito invasion they endure, it's not often in the summer that they can go to that small grove of trees next to the driveway, but when they can it is where their ideas soar.

Yesterday they were building their habitat (that's what they kept calling it) and were Native Americans trying to survive. They rigged up their 'pot' over the 'fire' and filled it with fresh rhubarb (see photo of Jonah above)to cook. They also used the big rhubarb stems and leaves to make their place to sleep. They acquired more branches and made a 'trap' for intruders and as a way to disguise their habitat.

What a blessing to have a sibling to enjoy a lazy summer day alongside of you. What a blessing to be at home with my children and watch them play and imagine endlessly.

These are the days that go on file in my Mommy brain. These are the days I'll miss one day. These are the days that my children will reminisce about when they are older. These are the days to treasure.

There's nothing quite like getting grubby, dirty and making memories.

Chocolate How I Love Thee

2011-07-13T07:41:00.000-05:00

While I am not a self proclaimed chocoholic (I am however the child of one), I do enjoy most every piece of chocolate I have. Unless of course it has a lot of nuts in it.

Imagine my delight when Lily pulled this off the shelf at the store and chose it for her treat:

I nearly squealed when she shared (albeit just a bite or two) with me. The fluffy, airy taste of the Three Musketeers bar combined with the crunch and the look of my favorite, Twix. I was hooked. *yum*

See, doesn't that look yummy? It's the first time I've seen the Three Musketeers Truffle Crisp in the store in my area, but maybe it's already been out for a bit. So maybe you've already tried it. If not, I highly recommend this little number.

Thank You, Mars Inc. for creating yet another fine piece of chocolate for me to enjoy.

{pretty, happy, funny, real}

2011-07-08T07:00:00.001-05:00

This is my first time to {pretty, happy, funny, real} and I couldn't wait to finally join in!

{pretty}

My gardens around the yard are almost at their peak and full of blooms. They have taken nine years to cultivate and grow, but now I am able to enjoy them from my window. It's the beauty that I envisioned for our yard so long ago when we built our house and I love it!

{happy}

Rarely captured in a photo together, my boy and my baby.

{funny}

Isn't that new crop of fuzz on Gianna just cute? The light hit it perfectly and highlighted its static growth.

Bubbles, she's got lots of 'em! Never have we had a more bubble-icious baby. This one was caught by one of my resident junior photographers.

{real}

How could I have forgotten this stage? Teething is in full force and if she can grab it, Gianna's got it in her mouth (including the Stewardship bulletin insert). We have to be careful now though because her first little toofer is sharp and poking out already. Yikes!

Be sure and visit Like Mother, Like Daughter to see this week's other entries.

Help! Calling All Homeschooling Moms!

2011-07-07T07:45:00.005-05:00

With the hazy, lazy days of summer brings its own share of mommy brain shut-down. Right now mine is on daily living and not as much on the months ahead. That's a good thing, especially in the summer months where it's all about fun, sun, gardening, swimming and lots of stuff to fill the blocks on the calendar.

But then, suddenly, it's July and my 'teacher' brain reminds me that another homeschooling year will begin before I know it. I stop and think about what I've ordered for the year ahead. And then I panic. I've got nothing. Seriously, not.a.thing. lined up yet. Since we did not attend the homeschool conference this year where we usually do a lot of our perusing and buying, there are no boxes of books waiting on my porch.

Oh sure, I've got time, but being that I'm a meticulous planner I really should get to work. The catalogs will come out and the Internet scouting will once again resume. After three years of homeschooling I do have the courses I really like and work for us, so those aren't a problem. But, there are some areas that we just haven't found the right fit yet.

Homeschool Moms to the rescue!!

Please share or pass along any and ALL information you can about curricula in the following areas: History, Geography, Social Studies and maybe even Science. Keep in mind that Lily will be in 3rd grade and Jonah in 1st grade.

Let me know what you've enjoyed and what's really worked for you. I'm counting on you!

My kids will also thank you come February when school days seem to drag on.

Friday Favorites

2011-07-01T07:13:00.000-05:00

aka 'We've been busy this week and I haven't had time to blog, so here's some photos instead'

Last Friday, the circus

Jonah enjoyed his Sno-Cone most of all

We took a mini vacation Sunday-Tuesday and hit the trails and gardens at an arboretum near our hotel.

Daddy and the kids

Mommy and the girls (photo credit: Jonah)

A round of mini-golf

Content little nap for Gianna at the waterpark

Gianna's first time at the pool

Lots of geocaching this week while on vacation and with friends Tuesday evening

Finally, a bluegrass/christian music concert outdoors last night.

It's summertime here and we are enjoying every day to its fullest!

Have a wonderful Fourth of July weekend!

Homefront Economics

2011-06-23T10:46:00.000-05:00

In a recent conversation where Lily was pleading her case of why we should buy her a horse (pets are a topic of conversation every so often around here), she shared her logical reason as to why we could afford one.

Her: "Where do people buy horses from any way?"

Me: "I suppose from people who are selling them or from auctions."

Her: "Really? At auctions? I thought that was something you could buy on the internet. We can buy everything online so I thought that's where you get horses too."

Me: "I guess I don't know for sure. Either way though, horses take a lot of care and money. We'd have to build a barn or shed first and that's an expense besides how much the horse and everything with it would cost."

Her: "Well, we have like a MILLION dollars...no, a ZILLION dollars...so I think we can afford it!"

Me: "How is it that you think we have that much money? I don't know that in our lifetimes we'll even see a million dollars."

Her: "You're always paying all of those bills we have, so you must have lots of money."

Me: "Um, yes, we are able to pay our bills but that's as soon as daddy brings home a check from work so we have money to pay those bills. That's money we need just to live."

Her: "Oh. Well, I still think you've got plenty of money for a horse."

She rests her case as I head outside to the money tree in the backyard to go grab a few ZILLION dollars.

Or maybe pray for a sudden windfall.

Wordless Wednesday: She Makes My Heart Melt

2011-06-22T08:55:00.000-05:00

Gianna at FOUR months:

Sing Along Monday

2011-06-20T06:56:00.000-05:00

I couldn't resist posting one of my latest favorite cartoon/kid show songs.

I stop what I'm doing whenever I hear the little Outside/Line Up song come on during Bubble Guppies. I can't resist. I love that little number.

Yes, my kids are probably too old for that show, but they seem to genuinely enjoy it and every episode has something that makes them laugh.

As for me, I listen from the other room just waiting for my favorite part. It makes me smile every time.

Because I'm sometimes a nerdy mom, I also try to sing it while getting my kids out the door. They moan and groan, but secretly I think they like it.

Happy Monday!

We Have A Winner!

2011-06-17T12:12:00.000-05:00

Mixing up the entries...

Picking a winner...

And the Winner is...

Congrats HappyMommyOnline, one of my newest readers! Please email me (see sidebar) your mailing address and I'll get your prizes off to you ASAP!

Thanks everyone for entering!

Last Chance To Enter!

2011-06-16T14:44:00.000-05:00

Don't forget to leave a comment to enter my giveaway. Enter by tomorrow morning to have a chance to win!

Click here to leave a comment on my 500th Post Giveaway!

This & That

2011-06-15T18:16:00.000-05:00

I really don't like filling a post with numerous photos, but we've been busy with a number of outings lately and I just haven't been able to keep up with the posting. So, if you aren't one for photos feel free to pass up this post.

If you are sticking around for the entertainment, here's a little of what we've been up to:

End of the school year field trip (aka Gianna's longest van trip so far)to the big city that included a visit to the Children's Museum.

Lego World exhibit currently at the Museum

Art Park on the rooftop

We also visited our State Capitol where daddy showed us around. He's on a legislative committee as part of his job, so he occasionally attends meetings there. The kids were so fascinated with the capitol and its beauty. Jonah was so funny as he kept asking Reed, "where's your office dad?". We had to keep explaining that daddy just goes there for meetings and isn't quite important enough to have an office there. He did think it was pretty cool that daddy got to go work at the big capitol though. (Truthfully, I agree)

On the Capitol steps

The Rotunda

The Senate Chambers

And we couldn't pass up the Cathedral just down the street when we were so close.

Lily enjoyed six weeks of soccer again this spring. She tried the program a couple years ago in the fall and chose to try it again this year. She was eager to head to the field each Monday and Thursday evening in the cold, heat or rain/mud. While still not really into competition, it did prove to be a good experience again for her to work with teammates and work on her skills.

We joined our homeschool group last week on a field trip to a Nature Learning Center. The kids learned how to compile a nature journal and as we walked along the trails and around the buildings they recorded their findings. Lots of birds to explore and listen for along the way.

Lastly, Lily had her spring piano recital and all her grandparents were able to attend. Lily did excellent performing one song solo and the other as a duet with her teacher.

We've been busy! Can you tell that the weather is beautiful and it's summertime? We're enjoying every minute of it.

One Of My Favorite Baby Gifts

2011-06-14T13:44:00.000-05:00

For a baptism gift for Gianna, my BIL and SIL gave us an awesome gift of a 13 month undated sticker Baby Calendar. I'm finding that with each passing week I'm enjoying it even more.

What an excellent gift idea, especially if this is baby number 2 or more. You know how that is when you record everything diligently for the first child in their beautiful baby book and then the next one(s) come along and there are many blank pages? At least, that's what happened here.

I love this calendar because you start it the month of baby's birth and keep it up for that first year. It even comes with stickers like 'First Tooth', 'First Steps', 'Doctor Visit', etc. With plenty of room to jot down other things you may want to remember as well.

Taking my SIL's suggestion, I keep it in Gianna's room along with a pencil to record things quickly where it's handy. I've included her first night in the crib, behavior changes, weight at checkups, family events, lots of 'firsts' and a couple other stories to remember.

The one Gianna received was from Hallmark, but I just found out last week that they are now discontinued. I searched Amazon and found a Baby Girl Calendar by Avalanche for a reasonable price, even with shipping that I purchased for my friend's new baby.

If you are searching for a perfect baby gift, I'd HIGHLY recommend one of these calendars. You won't regret it and mommy will be absolutely delighted to receive this treasured gift!

500th Post Giveaway!

2011-06-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

I've hit my 500th Post! Woo-hoo!

When I began, it was a way to make the time to write, share and store my thoughts on so many things. Even if it wasn't ever read by anyone else, I knew it was here and perhaps someone by happenstance would come across me in this little corner of the Internet.

Since then I've written about the highs and lows, shared the journey of secondary infertility, heartache, laughter, hope, joy, love, homeschooling, parenting, pregnancy and beyond. I've come a long way and I've enjoyed my place in the blogging community.

As a little thank you for reading here and following along, I've got a giveaway for you!

The prize:

1) a copy of a simple cookbook compiled by a friend of mine

2) a CD from John Michael Talbot (I gave you a heads up, remember?)

3) AND a $10 Target Giftcard!

A simple way to celebrate my blog's 500th post and a gift for a lucky reader too!

To enter, please leave a comment on this post. Feel free to also link to this giveaway on your blog and leave a comment letting me know you did so and you'll earn yourself a second chance to win.

You may enter until 8:00am(Central) this Friday, June 17th. The winner will be randomly drawn later that morning and will be posted.

I'm looking forward to another 500+ posts with you, as long as you keep coming back to check in. Thank you for stopping by and always blessing my day with your kind words.

Why Am I Having Trouble Leaving Comments?

2011-06-09T07:38:00.002-05:00

Can anyone out there help me?

I'm not sure if it's my new laptop and some setting on here or what the deal is, but I'm having trouble commenting on some blogs. I write the comment and click for the Google Account option for identification (of which I'm already signed in) and it doesn't show my name like it used to. It kicks me over to the Blogger login screen where I again type my Google info. and still my comment tries to post as 'Anonymous'.

HELP appreciated.

PS...Patty, I've been trying to comment, really I have :)

Wordless Wednesday: First Catch

2011-06-08T11:15:00.000-05:00

That's My Boy

2011-06-07T08:13:00.000-05:00

Otherwise titled 'T-Ball According To My 6 Year Old'. Or even 'Can You Tell We're Not Really Into Sports?'

We searched to find a good fit for a spring sport activity for Jonah this year. Having never taken anything previously, we were able to locate a six week T-Ball course given at the local YMCA that covered the basics before getting into the actual game. This seemed like the best place to start for our little slugger. All in all, I think it was a success and he looked forward to it each week. It didn't exactly spark any more eagerness from Jonah in the sports department, but I think there's still plenty of time for him to find his niche.

Promoting the father-son bond, I had hubby take him to his weekly practice. He captured a number of photos on the last evening and I had to share them. I found most of them hilarious, because they honestly showed Jonah in his true form and I could almost read his every thought. I'm posting a few with captions below for your enjoyment.

"Say what? Can you repeat that?"

Potential future girlfriend?

"How much longer do I have to stand here and wait for the ball?"

"Now we're getting down to business!"

"FINALLY. I get to hit the ball."

"Sure is hot out here. I wonder what time practice is over?"

"Um, hello....are we done yet?"

My Least Favorite Word

2011-06-05T15:54:00.000-05:00

As moms I think we've all got a word or words that our children say that just get under our skin. Agree?

Mine is the B-Word.

You know the one: B-O-R-E-D.

I despise it and when it dare be uttered forth from the mouth of a child in my home, I cringe. In summertime, I cringe even more. Of course, my dear boy knows this and I kid you not, he uses it just because he can. And now, he's even began spelling it because he knows that his utterance of it will cost him yet another lecture.

I'm not sure that he even knows the meaning, despite my numerous explanations. I also know that my kids have 'things' and 'stuff', creativity and imagination, so there seems no way possible that there could be boredom in this house.

But when I'm just in the first week of summer vacation and I hear 'I'm bored', I clearly see that something's gotta give.

We'll have fun this summer and we'll be plenty busy. There are sure to be many days with planned activities and events away from home, but I also think there can be plenty that can be enjoyed at home too. I want to keep the summer fun and full of memories for the kids, but how do I do that while keeping boredom at bay?

I want there to be days of reading books in the shade, taking a swim in the lake, visiting with friends and family, along with days to just 'be'. Anyone have any tried and true methods you can share? I'm really thinking about enforcing a penalty for every time the word 'bored' is used, but what other deterrents can I use? Seasoned moms, chime in!

My sanity will thank you come September.

Ego Booster #89

2011-05-31T14:30:00.000-05:00

From the eight year old:

"Mom, I think you can have four more children before you are 40. Then I'll tell you when you are done."

--------------------

The very next day:

"How old is (friend of mine who is 41 and having baby #5)? She hardly looks her age. You look like you shouldn't even have kids."

I mistakenly took this for a compliment and felt pretty good, until she clarified.

"I mean, she looks really good and you look older."

Oh, ok then.

"What?! I look older than I am?"

She starts to feel the pressure and covers with "maybe it's because I haven't seen you with a baby for a while so it seems weird. Like you're older than you are because I'm the age I am."

------------------

I felt like I should promptly run upstairs and load on the anti-aging cream.

So much for thinking this 32 year old body wasn't doing too bad. Oh well. I'll either use this moment to make me push harder in my exercising/self-care or to realize I shouldn't trust everything my eight year old tells me regarding my age.

Prayerful & Peaceful

2011-05-30T06:56:00.000-05:00

Have you ever heard the music of John Michael Talbot? You know the stuff. Calming and peaceful. Reflective.

A parish near us recently hosted a three evening parish mission/reflection done by him. I had the opportunity to attend two nights with Gianna and one of those nights our whole family attended.

While I had to take a crying Gianna out of the church both evenings, I was still able to enter in to the peace and prayerfulness of the message to benefit. But really, who am I kidding? His voice could pretty much soothe me to sleep and peacefulness any time of day!

I remember my dad owning cassettes of JMT's many years ago and the serenity that flowed from his music was always something I appreciated. I could have listened to him in person for hours if he kept on playing his acoustic guitar and singing. Unfortunately, he didn't sing for hours and it wasn't a concert as much as it was a teaching. I was ok with that though.

The first evening he shared his story and background singing (did you know that he's recorded over 50 albums?)with the likes of Janis Joplin in his early years. He also shared of his conversion to Catholicism and entering the Christian music scene.

The second evening he focused on the Hail Mary Prayer and the Jesus Prayer. These were his focus because his soon to be released album was written with both of these as the theme. He reminded us that Pope John Paul II has said that the Church must breathe from both lungs--the eastern and western. The western tradition began the incorporation of the Marian prayer, the Hail Mary, and the eastern tradition brought about the Jesus Prayer.

John Michael Talbot taught us the Jesus Prayer and the symbolism in it. The Jesus Prayer can also be prayed on the rosary beads as a reflective prayer as well. These are the words:

'Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me a sinner.'

Having sat through his explanation and teaching how to prayerfully relax and meditate on these words as they are slowly prayed, it became easier to see what a beautiful prayer it is.

I've been recalling it numerous times as a quick prayer offering during the day.

Although I would've loved to hear more of his singing, John Michael Talbot offered a short and sweet mini-retreat of sorts that my family all enjoyed.

You can downloaded his newest release, "Worship And Bow Down", through iTunes now or wait for its release June 21st. Go check out all of his music and books on his website.

Psst...stay tuned here in the coming weeks. I've got a giveaway coming and maybe you can score yourself some of his music!

{this moment}

2011-05-27T08:28:00.003-05:00

A Friday ritual. A single photo-no words-capturing a moment from the week.

Hosted by SouleMama.

Happy Ending

2011-05-26T06:53:00.004-05:00

Because my husband is an amazing and generous man, he went and picked this up for me our family yesterday:

HOORAY!

After my freak out and doing some computer shopping over the weekend, I gave Reed permission to pick out a computer that was best for us (and to find a great deal). He did the research and shopping online and then found a few to compare and we chose from those three.

I'm so grateful that he did all the work and so excited to have a new laptop! Now we'll just need to get the files transferred.

I better stop playing around and get hopping. We've got our Little Flowers end of the year luncheon that we're hosting at our house today. It should be lots of fun!

Afterward, I can get back to playing.

Teachable Moment #247

2011-05-24T10:26:00.001-05:00

Jonah had an item on his birthday list he just HAD to have. He'd seen numerous commercials for the Gaz Zuds bubble gun and thought that it looked and sounded like so much fun.

It boasts of its foaming action and the bubbles come pouring out of the bubble gun leading to endless entertainment.

We were skeptical, but he insisted and we bought it for his birthday. He was perhaps a little less thrilled with it as he unwrapped it, but still seemed eager to try it out. The following day we took it outside to give it a try. It seemed a bit disappointing to me and as I looked at my boy's face it indicated that he felt the same way.

His head hung low as he said 'That's not very exciting at all. It's nothing like the commercial.'

I took hold of the moment and reminded him how things aren't always as they seem, especially on t.v. Commercials are made to promote a product and make it look like we can't live without it, but the reality is never quite as the commercial makes it out to be. I quoted St. Augustine, 'our hearts are restless until they rest in you, O Lord'. Nothing on earth will fulfill us as much as we believe it will because we are seeking God and a peace only He can give us.

He agreed that sometimes things/toys aren't as exciting as he thought or he's only happy with that toy for a short time.

In that moment we were both reminded that things are just things and they all come and go, until the next thing we think we need to make us happy and fulfilled. In the end, what we already have is certainly more than we really need.

P.S.--I'd like to also add that Colored Bubbles are not as fun as they are made out to be either. We found them messy and leave a colored mark wherever they land. Clothes must be washed immediately (and not sprayed with stain remover) and your porch, shoes, etc. for instance do not come clean until washed or rained upon. FYI.

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