Enough said.
God bless,
Mary
Showing posts with label big families. Show all posts
Showing posts with label big families. Show all posts
Friday, July 13, 2012
Huh? What did you say?
I really think that sometimes they make these things specifically for Mommas with lots of very rowdy kids.
Enough said.
God bless,
Mary
Enough said.
God bless,
Mary
Monday, July 2, 2012
I'm positive
As in....positive pregnancy test!!! :)
It's not enough to just say how thankful we are...our entire family is overjoyed! We are so humbled by God and His glorious generosity.
Baby #9! 7 living and 1 in Heaven....
My kids, esp. #2 and #3, who made their First Holy Communion this year, are SO very happy!!! They both asked for a new baby in our family after their received their first Holy Communion and knelt down in prayer. How my heart melts at the thought of this and the reality of this. How amazingly generous THEY are! According to St. Therese, Jesus told her that anyone who makes their first Holy Commuion and after recieving our Lord in the Eucharist, kneels down and prays for anything, that God will answer and grant it. SO HE DID!!!
My kids have been praying for a new baby since our lil' Lady was about 5 months old...we concieved back in Nov. 2011, then sadly miscarried. Then here we are again! How loving my children know of God-how much He grants their prayers and loves them all. I am so very humbled. Truly.
I am 8 1/2 weeks along today. I went and got an ultrasound last week and there is a strong heartbeat. Oh, how my whole body was shaking as we began the ultrasound then how is relaxed with such JOY!!! My hubby was there with me (which has not happened...oh, since maybe baby #2?!) and it was truly a gift that he was there. Again, he was my strength and my rock. I held tight to his hand, starring in his eyes until the moment we saw AND HEARD the awesome heartbeat of our sweet little one. I love that sound!!!
So...the word is out. I have told my family and friends and now YOU! :)
Please please add us to your prayers. We are praying so much for this baby that all turns out okay, but most of all, we are praying to be at ease and at peace with whatever God chooses for our family and sees fit. B/c His will is ALWAYS the best, no matter what.
Thank you so much for praying-we appreciate it.
We are so excited, so happy and so very very thankful to God for this gift of LIFE!
Due date is Feb. 6, 2013.
God bless,
Mary
That's right, we are expecting a baby!!!
It's not enough to just say how thankful we are...our entire family is overjoyed! We are so humbled by God and His glorious generosity.
Baby #9! 7 living and 1 in Heaven....
My kids, esp. #2 and #3, who made their First Holy Communion this year, are SO very happy!!! They both asked for a new baby in our family after their received their first Holy Communion and knelt down in prayer. How my heart melts at the thought of this and the reality of this. How amazingly generous THEY are! According to St. Therese, Jesus told her that anyone who makes their first Holy Commuion and after recieving our Lord in the Eucharist, kneels down and prays for anything, that God will answer and grant it. SO HE DID!!!
My kids have been praying for a new baby since our lil' Lady was about 5 months old...we concieved back in Nov. 2011, then sadly miscarried. Then here we are again! How loving my children know of God-how much He grants their prayers and loves them all. I am so very humbled. Truly.
I am 8 1/2 weeks along today. I went and got an ultrasound last week and there is a strong heartbeat. Oh, how my whole body was shaking as we began the ultrasound then how is relaxed with such JOY!!! My hubby was there with me (which has not happened...oh, since maybe baby #2?!) and it was truly a gift that he was there. Again, he was my strength and my rock. I held tight to his hand, starring in his eyes until the moment we saw AND HEARD the awesome heartbeat of our sweet little one. I love that sound!!!
So...the word is out. I have told my family and friends and now YOU! :)
Please please add us to your prayers. We are praying so much for this baby that all turns out okay, but most of all, we are praying to be at ease and at peace with whatever God chooses for our family and sees fit. B/c His will is ALWAYS the best, no matter what.
Thank you so much for praying-we appreciate it.
We are so excited, so happy and so very very thankful to God for this gift of LIFE!
Due date is Feb. 6, 2013.
God bless,
Mary
Saturday, May 26, 2012
Quick Takes Memorial Wknd Edition
1. A bag full of cheesy old style non-Nerf guns for $1 goes a loooooooooooong way to make little people very giddy and happy!
2. Went for the 1st time to a Farmers Market and it was awesome! Why oh why have I not done this before? And I know our food will be depleted very soon....as in less than 3 or 4 days but oh well! This food is delicious- we can totally taste the difference.
3. My amazing hubby and boys are making some bird houses for me :) It was supposed to be more of a late mothers day gift and I am so thankful. So very blessed. Have I told you how much I love birds?
4. At that farmers market I bought my first tomato plant of the season. Should I have bought more? Not sure! :) So far, the kidos are liking it a lot and only pulled off ONE tomato. I told them HANDS OFF MY BOB!
5. Yes, I said Bob. I named my fellow plant, BOB. After Bob the Tomato from Veggie tales :)
6. Hand me down clothes are great. We waited a very very long time to get a few bags (as in almost over a year, I think) and in those bags was a Bob the Tomato red t-shirt for my 5 yr old teddy bear!!! He loves it and so do I. Reason why I named my plant Bob. Heee heee
7. I made eggplant Parmesan for dinner tonight and it smells soooooooooo good in here! My hubby came back from Home depot buying the wood and supplies needed for the bird houses and he was quite happy w/that smell too! I love to make my man happy with the food I make!!! A little joy for me b/c I love to cook and I made it and for him too b/c he gets to eat it!
8. Last year this time we were back in our old stomping grounds up North, spending time w/family and getting ready to run the 20 K for my hubby and my oldest ran the 4K while all my little kidos ran the kids run. They just don't have a lot of them down here. Bummmer.... In fact, my hubby was thinking of signing up for a marathon again (tried 3 yrs ago and was up to 22 miles in training w/3 weeks left and hurt both his knees ---poor guy). They were sold out! Can you imagine that?!?!? Only living down here with this population would a marathon sold out. gee wiz.
9. We finished those CAT TESTS!!!!! Yes! But I am such a mean mom...b/c I am still making them do school work. Low key school work and reading but still some to do! :) Lots of fun ways to learn-games, card games, board games, computer games- all w/ a style of learning and having gun while doing it. Lots of reading too. Lots of read alouds and I am going to make some type of a reading worm and have a little competition on who can read the most books in their age group!!! :)
10. Biggest goal of this summer: Learn how to SEW! Sewing machine SEW!!! I am pretty excited and pretty nervous! My dream would be to make a quilt with some clothes that my kids out grew that I am sentimental about. We'll see.
11. Not sure about joining the pool. So much immodesty there!!! But SO hot here!!! HUMID HOT!!! Praying on that one. Maybe I'll just buy a big ol TROUGH. Whatta think? ha! :) But I am pretty serious. Kinda. Yeah.
12. I gave my kids an end of the school year home school questionnaire and that was totally an inspiration from the Holy Spirit. It was SO cool!!! I thought that I knew what they would answer and I think for the most part, I was right on but it was awesome to find out some things that were so surprising! I loved this! I am so going to do this every year! :)
Best go now~!!!
God bless, Mary
2. Went for the 1st time to a Farmers Market and it was awesome! Why oh why have I not done this before? And I know our food will be depleted very soon....as in less than 3 or 4 days but oh well! This food is delicious- we can totally taste the difference.
3. My amazing hubby and boys are making some bird houses for me :) It was supposed to be more of a late mothers day gift and I am so thankful. So very blessed. Have I told you how much I love birds?
4. At that farmers market I bought my first tomato plant of the season. Should I have bought more? Not sure! :) So far, the kidos are liking it a lot and only pulled off ONE tomato. I told them HANDS OFF MY BOB!
5. Yes, I said Bob. I named my fellow plant, BOB. After Bob the Tomato from Veggie tales :)
6. Hand me down clothes are great. We waited a very very long time to get a few bags (as in almost over a year, I think) and in those bags was a Bob the Tomato red t-shirt for my 5 yr old teddy bear!!! He loves it and so do I. Reason why I named my plant Bob. Heee heee
7. I made eggplant Parmesan for dinner tonight and it smells soooooooooo good in here! My hubby came back from Home depot buying the wood and supplies needed for the bird houses and he was quite happy w/that smell too! I love to make my man happy with the food I make!!! A little joy for me b/c I love to cook and I made it and for him too b/c he gets to eat it!
8. Last year this time we were back in our old stomping grounds up North, spending time w/family and getting ready to run the 20 K for my hubby and my oldest ran the 4K while all my little kidos ran the kids run. They just don't have a lot of them down here. Bummmer.... In fact, my hubby was thinking of signing up for a marathon again (tried 3 yrs ago and was up to 22 miles in training w/3 weeks left and hurt both his knees ---poor guy). They were sold out! Can you imagine that?!?!? Only living down here with this population would a marathon sold out. gee wiz.
9. We finished those CAT TESTS!!!!! Yes! But I am such a mean mom...b/c I am still making them do school work. Low key school work and reading but still some to do! :) Lots of fun ways to learn-games, card games, board games, computer games- all w/ a style of learning and having gun while doing it. Lots of reading too. Lots of read alouds and I am going to make some type of a reading worm and have a little competition on who can read the most books in their age group!!! :)
10. Biggest goal of this summer: Learn how to SEW! Sewing machine SEW!!! I am pretty excited and pretty nervous! My dream would be to make a quilt with some clothes that my kids out grew that I am sentimental about. We'll see.
11. Not sure about joining the pool. So much immodesty there!!! But SO hot here!!! HUMID HOT!!! Praying on that one. Maybe I'll just buy a big ol TROUGH. Whatta think? ha! :) But I am pretty serious. Kinda. Yeah.
12. I gave my kids an end of the school year home school questionnaire and that was totally an inspiration from the Holy Spirit. It was SO cool!!! I thought that I knew what they would answer and I think for the most part, I was right on but it was awesome to find out some things that were so surprising! I loved this! I am so going to do this every year! :)
Best go now~!!!
God bless, Mary
Friday, May 18, 2012
Have you ever teared up or even broke down crying b/c you realized that you, as a Momma, have not loved your children the way they deserve simply b/c you could not do what you wanted to do and knew that would help but could not physcially do it b/c of the many demands of children?
Have you ever cried so hard that your heart literally ached b/c you have not loved your children enough and it was in your power to do so but selfishly chose not to?
Have you ever? Have you?
I come to you, in this post, and ask you to pray for me and for all mothers who feel this way.
So heavy on my heart, these feelings, as I cling to the hope I have in Jesus Christ. He is my rock. He is my strength. He is the One I turn to in hopes of mercy and grace. He may be the only one to understand this power and deep love. These thoughts can be quite overwhelming, yet I turn to the Cross. In the Cross is where I can see the LOVE and the Forgiveness and the Hope. It is only there that I can begin to understand the depth of sacrificial Love that He shed for me and how I am to LOVE those He gave to me to take care of.
God bless,
Mary
Have you ever cried so hard that your heart literally ached b/c you have not loved your children enough and it was in your power to do so but selfishly chose not to?
Have you ever? Have you?
I come to you, in this post, and ask you to pray for me and for all mothers who feel this way.
So heavy on my heart, these feelings, as I cling to the hope I have in Jesus Christ. He is my rock. He is my strength. He is the One I turn to in hopes of mercy and grace. He may be the only one to understand this power and deep love. These thoughts can be quite overwhelming, yet I turn to the Cross. In the Cross is where I can see the LOVE and the Forgiveness and the Hope. It is only there that I can begin to understand the depth of sacrificial Love that He shed for me and how I am to LOVE those He gave to me to take care of.
God bless,
Mary
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Is it me?
or...do people just not get together much anymore?
I have noticed over the past 4-5 years a decline in "play dates" and get togethers for not only mom and tots(which are the most popular) but also for arranging play dates for older kids too. I also do not mean just the drop off play dates but the "mom comes along too so mom can have some adult interaction and adult talk" play dates. It makes me wonder if the technology spree has taken over the relationships that people NEED. We all need people and relationships in our lives, outside of our own family. Especially the moms, right Moms? I am tending to think that the Internet, texting, emails, twitter, face book, blogs, forums, IPhones, IPad's and whatever else is out there that I don't know about has taken the place of real live people. I remember how weird it was when emails came about. I still would rather talk on the phone than email someone about something.
It saddens me that our society is okay with this and has let the real human relationship, the sense of community, go by the wayside.
We (my family and I) are living in a very populated area and there are many very valid reasons to why other moms and kidos don't want to venture out. Traffic, schooling, clubs/activities and certainly the stress, stress, stress that congestion brings. Besides the traffic, this would be applicable to any other part of our country too. Wouldn't you agree that if someone really wants to see another or get their kids together to play and moms to chat, that they would seek them out? But I wonder if that desire is being fulfilled electronically.
At times, I feel like I have the plague or something! I had this conversation with a dear friend that lives 8 hours away from me and she feels the same way. It has to be this electronic world we are living in and not so much the actual location/state we live in. I have noticed lots of moms feel this way, all in different parts of our country.
I am not so keen on how this society and world is evolving. It truly saddens me.
I don't mean to complain but it is something that has been heavy on my heart lately and wanted to share. I am not sure even how to deal with it or try to change it or if it is possible to change it. How do I go along with this and enjoy the ride when I feel like I missed the boat?
God bless,
Mary
I have noticed over the past 4-5 years a decline in "play dates" and get togethers for not only mom and tots(which are the most popular) but also for arranging play dates for older kids too. I also do not mean just the drop off play dates but the "mom comes along too so mom can have some adult interaction and adult talk" play dates. It makes me wonder if the technology spree has taken over the relationships that people NEED. We all need people and relationships in our lives, outside of our own family. Especially the moms, right Moms? I am tending to think that the Internet, texting, emails, twitter, face book, blogs, forums, IPhones, IPad's and whatever else is out there that I don't know about has taken the place of real live people. I remember how weird it was when emails came about. I still would rather talk on the phone than email someone about something.
It saddens me that our society is okay with this and has let the real human relationship, the sense of community, go by the wayside.
We (my family and I) are living in a very populated area and there are many very valid reasons to why other moms and kidos don't want to venture out. Traffic, schooling, clubs/activities and certainly the stress, stress, stress that congestion brings. Besides the traffic, this would be applicable to any other part of our country too. Wouldn't you agree that if someone really wants to see another or get their kids together to play and moms to chat, that they would seek them out? But I wonder if that desire is being fulfilled electronically.
At times, I feel like I have the plague or something! I had this conversation with a dear friend that lives 8 hours away from me and she feels the same way. It has to be this electronic world we are living in and not so much the actual location/state we live in. I have noticed lots of moms feel this way, all in different parts of our country.
I am not so keen on how this society and world is evolving. It truly saddens me.
I don't mean to complain but it is something that has been heavy on my heart lately and wanted to share. I am not sure even how to deal with it or try to change it or if it is possible to change it. How do I go along with this and enjoy the ride when I feel like I missed the boat?
God bless,
Mary
Saturday, April 14, 2012
My day of great finds!
Phew! That last post I wrote was a bit on edge and a bit serious. But, that is life and so there you have it.
Just to note, we had an awesome day today. Which, thanks be to God, was an answer to my prayers according to my last post, huh? God is good. He KNOWS what we need!!! Today was much needed.
Due to a major necessity, I managed to miraculously get out and about to a bunch of yard sales- even before the kids were all up!!! I made our usual homemade waffle mix, left it out on the table and motioned to my early bird hubby, who was busy doing the bills at that early hour, that I was off for the morning. (Oh how I love LOVE this man of mine!:P)
We go through high chairs like water. I stand in awe of other big families that have the same high chair for 3, 4, 5 kids in a row. Uh, how on earth DO they DO it?!?!?!? My big purchase was a new high chair. Well, new to us, that is. It was my #1 objective of the day and I conquered it by 7:30am!!! That is a huge accomplishment and I am so happy and so thankful. It is very sturdy so I am hopeful it will last for a while. The negative aspect about it is that is a big and chunky. I went online to see if I could find a picture of it and I couldn't. I guess that says how old it probably is! haa haa!!! :)
Along with my finds, I picked up about 10 more matchbox cars (a momma of boys can NEVER have enough cars) and 2 of the sweetest dresses for my lil' Lady. She is so darling in them. I love to see my girls in dresses and they love to wear them!
This afternoon was a great adventure for us. On the eve of Divine Mercy Sunday, we as a family, gave of our time-2 plus hours- by decorating and packing up boxes for the homeless, the poor, the needy and the elderly. It was something we could do AS A WHOLE FAMILY so we did it!!! Even my youngest 15 mo. old got in on the fun. She was putting soap in the boxes-it was so cute! All my kids were amazing. Never underestimate what a child can do, right? They are so driven when they see a need and act on it. They really did surprise my husband and I. They were the last ones there helping to pack up the truck and all. They counted 791 boxes to be distributed! It was beautiful and we are so blessed to have been a part of it.
We ended our day by stopping and actually eating IN chick-fil-a!!! What a treat! Usually, I don't have enough gutso to go IN so I normally do the drive thru. But with hubby by my side, we did it and the kids had a blast. What a great reward for all the help they gave.
This was a day that we all needed. To get out, think about others, be a part of something much larger than our 4 walls. God is so good to have allowed this to happen for us. I think it will make a great and memorable impression.
As my 3 yr old repeatedly told us the last 15 minutes of packing up the boxes:
"Oh how I love this day. I just love it!"
This 3 yr old reminded me how I need to say this EVERY SINGLE DAY. Out of the mouths of babes...
God bless,
Mary
Just to note, we had an awesome day today. Which, thanks be to God, was an answer to my prayers according to my last post, huh? God is good. He KNOWS what we need!!! Today was much needed.
Due to a major necessity, I managed to miraculously get out and about to a bunch of yard sales- even before the kids were all up!!! I made our usual homemade waffle mix, left it out on the table and motioned to my early bird hubby, who was busy doing the bills at that early hour, that I was off for the morning. (Oh how I love LOVE this man of mine!:P)
We go through high chairs like water. I stand in awe of other big families that have the same high chair for 3, 4, 5 kids in a row. Uh, how on earth DO they DO it?!?!?!? My big purchase was a new high chair. Well, new to us, that is. It was my #1 objective of the day and I conquered it by 7:30am!!! That is a huge accomplishment and I am so happy and so thankful. It is very sturdy so I am hopeful it will last for a while. The negative aspect about it is that is a big and chunky. I went online to see if I could find a picture of it and I couldn't. I guess that says how old it probably is! haa haa!!! :)
Along with my finds, I picked up about 10 more matchbox cars (a momma of boys can NEVER have enough cars) and 2 of the sweetest dresses for my lil' Lady. She is so darling in them. I love to see my girls in dresses and they love to wear them!
This afternoon was a great adventure for us. On the eve of Divine Mercy Sunday, we as a family, gave of our time-2 plus hours- by decorating and packing up boxes for the homeless, the poor, the needy and the elderly. It was something we could do AS A WHOLE FAMILY so we did it!!! Even my youngest 15 mo. old got in on the fun. She was putting soap in the boxes-it was so cute! All my kids were amazing. Never underestimate what a child can do, right? They are so driven when they see a need and act on it. They really did surprise my husband and I. They were the last ones there helping to pack up the truck and all. They counted 791 boxes to be distributed! It was beautiful and we are so blessed to have been a part of it.
We ended our day by stopping and actually eating IN chick-fil-a!!! What a treat! Usually, I don't have enough gutso to go IN so I normally do the drive thru. But with hubby by my side, we did it and the kids had a blast. What a great reward for all the help they gave.
This was a day that we all needed. To get out, think about others, be a part of something much larger than our 4 walls. God is so good to have allowed this to happen for us. I think it will make a great and memorable impression.
As my 3 yr old repeatedly told us the last 15 minutes of packing up the boxes:
"Oh how I love this day. I just love it!"
This 3 yr old reminded me how I need to say this EVERY SINGLE DAY. Out of the mouths of babes...
God bless,
Mary
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Dear young moms out there...
Take the time to really play with your kids. Show them all the fun games you can create with the smallest amount of items. Play with them outside. Teach them how to do an obstacle course. Have running races all around your yard. Show them how to play "Spud" and "Capture the Flag". Show them how to make believe with sticks, grass and leaves. Let them get dirty. (It's okay-they can take baths and you can wash their clothes-it's not the end of the world~ I promise you! :P )
Pull out their imagination and then sit back and watch it grow.
Bring out the blankets and have picnics on your front (or back) lawn. Let them mess up the room with the cushions and pillows and blankets. Let them create and learn and have tons of fun.
This type of learning is the best and the most worthwhile, I do believe.
I know it may seem difficult and you may think you do not have the time. BUt I challenge you to do it!
Because right now, I am reaping the benefits. I am letting this moment sink in. Right now, my older kids have been truly playing outside and doing all those things I took the time to teach them back when they were only 6 and younger. They are doing the EXACT same things I taught them but now with the little ones!!!
(I do believe this is one of those moments that those seasoned homeschooling big family mommas out there told me about. I have been waiting for this!!! THank You God!)
Oh what JOY my heart feels at this very moment and I give all the glory to God!
God bless,
Mary
Pull out their imagination and then sit back and watch it grow.
Bring out the blankets and have picnics on your front (or back) lawn. Let them mess up the room with the cushions and pillows and blankets. Let them create and learn and have tons of fun.
This type of learning is the best and the most worthwhile, I do believe.
I know it may seem difficult and you may think you do not have the time. BUt I challenge you to do it!
Because right now, I am reaping the benefits. I am letting this moment sink in. Right now, my older kids have been truly playing outside and doing all those things I took the time to teach them back when they were only 6 and younger. They are doing the EXACT same things I taught them but now with the little ones!!!
(I do believe this is one of those moments that those seasoned homeschooling big family mommas out there told me about. I have been waiting for this!!! THank You God!)
Oh what JOY my heart feels at this very moment and I give all the glory to God!
God bless,
Mary
Friday, March 23, 2012
Are you going?
to see OCTOBER BABY??? (Click on it)
It is opening this weekend! I am going to try to go tomorrow. Anyone want to join me?
On this date, March 23rd, as we oppose and rally against the HSS mandate and all that it entails, we can be sure that the fight is on--perfect day for this movie to be released.
Praise God-King of kings!
God bless,
Mary
It is opening this weekend! I am going to try to go tomorrow. Anyone want to join me?
On this date, March 23rd, as we oppose and rally against the HSS mandate and all that it entails, we can be sure that the fight is on--perfect day for this movie to be released.
Praise God-King of kings!
God bless,
Mary
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Dear little one...
Yesterday was a difficult day.
I cried tears for you, my sweet little one who was once inside me.
I would have been about 6 months along right now.
Instead I am empty.
I wonder if God will bless us again with a sweet baby.
I wait and wonder.
You would have been born in mid-June this summer. Oh, what a beautiful time of the year to have a baby. All that fresh air that you would get. But you never got the chance.
Some people say that you were just a "blob" of tissue or cells.
But we know that you are a perfect creation by God. You became you at the moment of conception. There will never be another you.
I wonder what you would have looked like. Would you have brown hair like biggest sister or light brown/blonde like your other big sister?
Spiritually, I know you are in Heaven, perfect happiness and contentment. That gives me peace.
But my human heart aches and my arms want to cradle you and sing you lullabies and tenderly kiss your sweet skin.
Your big sisters and big brothers all love you, and talk about you every day. Not a day goes by that we do not ask you to pray for us.
I know that you are at peace, you are perfect in Heaven, waiting and praying for us to get there too.
Don't ever stop praying for us, little one.
You are so dear to our hearts.
When others ask how many kids we have, I always say "Seven... and one in Heaven". I will never let anyone tell me that you were not a real baby.
My whole life changed when you were conceived.
Your Daddy and I were so happy and willingly accepted you as a gift straight from God.
Those many weeks of morning sickness were very real.
Those many tired days and weeks were for you. And I'd do it all over again, for you.
My love is so deep, even if we only got to spend 10 weeks together.
My life not only changed, but was enriched and forever different in the best possible way.
You, little one, had a mission that only lasted a short time. You have given us focus, once again, on Heaven and why we are here. This place is not our home. This is not our destination. We are journeying to a much better place. A place where we can be forever united once again.
I yearn to hold you once again. You are forever my baby and forever I'll be your Momma.
I love you and I miss you.
God bless you little one,
Momma
I cried tears for you, my sweet little one who was once inside me.
I would have been about 6 months along right now.
Instead I am empty.
I wonder if God will bless us again with a sweet baby.
I wait and wonder.
You would have been born in mid-June this summer. Oh, what a beautiful time of the year to have a baby. All that fresh air that you would get. But you never got the chance.
Some people say that you were just a "blob" of tissue or cells.
But we know that you are a perfect creation by God. You became you at the moment of conception. There will never be another you.
I wonder what you would have looked like. Would you have brown hair like biggest sister or light brown/blonde like your other big sister?
Spiritually, I know you are in Heaven, perfect happiness and contentment. That gives me peace.
But my human heart aches and my arms want to cradle you and sing you lullabies and tenderly kiss your sweet skin.
Your big sisters and big brothers all love you, and talk about you every day. Not a day goes by that we do not ask you to pray for us.
I know that you are at peace, you are perfect in Heaven, waiting and praying for us to get there too.
Don't ever stop praying for us, little one.
You are so dear to our hearts.
When others ask how many kids we have, I always say "Seven... and one in Heaven". I will never let anyone tell me that you were not a real baby.
My whole life changed when you were conceived.
Your Daddy and I were so happy and willingly accepted you as a gift straight from God.
Those many weeks of morning sickness were very real.
Those many tired days and weeks were for you. And I'd do it all over again, for you.
My love is so deep, even if we only got to spend 10 weeks together.
My life not only changed, but was enriched and forever different in the best possible way.
You, little one, had a mission that only lasted a short time. You have given us focus, once again, on Heaven and why we are here. This place is not our home. This is not our destination. We are journeying to a much better place. A place where we can be forever united once again.
I yearn to hold you once again. You are forever my baby and forever I'll be your Momma.
I love you and I miss you.
God bless you little one,
Momma
Thursday, March 15, 2012
How do we do any activities w/a big family?
This is a certain question that any homeschooling momma of a big family asks herself very often.
I thought it might be helpful if I answered that question as to what we do/do not do. My way may not be your way. That is ok! My way may not be perfect-that is ok! But our way is our way and it works for now so it is perfect for us! :)
So....activities! haa haaa. well, not much goes on here but I am finally ok w/that.
It's easy to see other moms having kids in this or that club and going here/there and we're home. I used to think that I am not exposing them to a good education if they do not do this/that and go here/there. But reality is that being home is OK.
The $ is just not there to do all those things.
The TIME is just not there to do all those things. (Babies napping and too stressful for me to get everyone ready to go somewhere).
Sometimes the influences of certain other kids is not what we want for our kids to be exposed to.
Right now, my oldest is an altar server and serves every other weekend and we all go to the Mass he serves. If it something we can do as a whole family, then we try to do it. If it is just one or some kids, we have to evaluate if it is something we can manage, it is something that is consistent w/our goals as a family to get to Heaven...if it is a good use of time-something of value. We do not do soccer/or any sports anymore b/c it is just not feasible right now.
We have the kids in a weekly co-op w/our home school group and that takes up a chunk of time in one morning a week. We also get together weekly for a PE class-gym class that meets after school hours at a park. It is somewhat organized and just started back up for the Springtime. My kids love it and it is good for us b/c we are all out together for an hour or so and then home. It makes sense and it works right now. All my kids are in their age group except my Lil' Lady-where I run after her-that is my exercise, my PE!!! haaa haaaaa
With not doing so much, every day I am truly trying my best to turn my heart to my kids-to seek them and their interests.....and helping them get along w/each other. Seeing the reality and the potential of having their siblings as their best friends instead of seeking out other kids for them to be friends with.
Does this all make sense to you?
It took me a LONG time to understand and accept this.
It does help that where we live is extremely stressful to just go to a park (I am not kidding)-the traffic and stress is not worth it. A few weeks ago we went to a park---left it at 4:40pm so that i could get home to get dinner ready. It usually takes us 20 mins. We did not get home till 5:20-5:25pm. See? It's crazy around here---a city of people squished into a town setting.
There is not many play dates that take place in our home school group---the clubs/activities are what they use as getting together. Since we do not do many of those things (not even super organized sports!!!!!) then we are together at home a whole lot.
I am actively trying to embrace this lifestyle instead of fighting it. I fought it for so many years-too many. I have found some peace in doing this along w/lots of prayer and surrender. If Jesus was home for 30 years w/His Momma, then it can't be too bad!!!
Hope that helps out! :)
God bless, Mary
I thought it might be helpful if I answered that question as to what we do/do not do. My way may not be your way. That is ok! My way may not be perfect-that is ok! But our way is our way and it works for now so it is perfect for us! :)
So....activities! haa haaa. well, not much goes on here but I am finally ok w/that.
It's easy to see other moms having kids in this or that club and going here/there and we're home. I used to think that I am not exposing them to a good education if they do not do this/that and go here/there. But reality is that being home is OK.
The $ is just not there to do all those things.
The TIME is just not there to do all those things. (Babies napping and too stressful for me to get everyone ready to go somewhere).
Sometimes the influences of certain other kids is not what we want for our kids to be exposed to.
Right now, my oldest is an altar server and serves every other weekend and we all go to the Mass he serves. If it something we can do as a whole family, then we try to do it. If it is just one or some kids, we have to evaluate if it is something we can manage, it is something that is consistent w/our goals as a family to get to Heaven...if it is a good use of time-something of value. We do not do soccer/or any sports anymore b/c it is just not feasible right now.
We have the kids in a weekly co-op w/our home school group and that takes up a chunk of time in one morning a week. We also get together weekly for a PE class-gym class that meets after school hours at a park. It is somewhat organized and just started back up for the Springtime. My kids love it and it is good for us b/c we are all out together for an hour or so and then home. It makes sense and it works right now. All my kids are in their age group except my Lil' Lady-where I run after her-that is my exercise, my PE!!! haaa haaaaa
With not doing so much, every day I am truly trying my best to turn my heart to my kids-to seek them and their interests.....and helping them get along w/each other. Seeing the reality and the potential of having their siblings as their best friends instead of seeking out other kids for them to be friends with.
Does this all make sense to you?
It took me a LONG time to understand and accept this.
It does help that where we live is extremely stressful to just go to a park (I am not kidding)-the traffic and stress is not worth it. A few weeks ago we went to a park---left it at 4:40pm so that i could get home to get dinner ready. It usually takes us 20 mins. We did not get home till 5:20-5:25pm. See? It's crazy around here---a city of people squished into a town setting.
There is not many play dates that take place in our home school group---the clubs/activities are what they use as getting together. Since we do not do many of those things (not even super organized sports!!!!!) then we are together at home a whole lot.
I am actively trying to embrace this lifestyle instead of fighting it. I fought it for so many years-too many. I have found some peace in doing this along w/lots of prayer and surrender. If Jesus was home for 30 years w/His Momma, then it can't be too bad!!!
Hope that helps out! :)
God bless, Mary
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Dare not to compare
I have to confess, I steal a lot of ideas from other homeschooling momma blogs. I know, this is a real shock, isn't it? Ha! :) I bet you do too...right?!?! :) I surely do not have time to try to invent something and why would I reinvent the wheel when I do not have to?
Well, that peeking into others' homes and their lives is a two fold, for me. Interesting, amazing and beautiful things is what I find but I also find myself getting frustrated at my lack of ability, patience, creativity and even 'order' that I see in their homes. I have a dear friend who does not even attempt blogs b/c of this very reason. Albeit, a very good reason. It gets depressing!
I try to remind myself that I do not see their whole life, and many do not blog about the negative aspects and hardships of a homeschooling family life. So, all that others see is this super good part of their lives and we think it's like that all the time. Which, when really thought about, is SO not true! No one or no family can ever be perfect! I remind myself that many of these large families come from large families themselves...they are accustomed to the craziness and loudness and messiness that a large family brings. They know how to adapt much more quickly than others (ahem...) and we can start to compare ourselves and our families to others, esp. if we do not even really know them! How foolish.
God knows our hearts. God knows what He is doing. God sees my efforts to do the smallest task and He sees my love that I do it with, for Him, and He blesses me with such graces. I can only imagine that this would equal all those others immaculate homes, those super creative art projects, those darling matching outfits their kidos wear, and those other things. To God be the glory!
But what a trap this is, isn't it?
Now, it's time for me to get another cup of coffee and think about that some more all the while I teach my kidos! Rainy days ALWAYS summon another cup! ;)
May God bless your day,
Mary
Well, that peeking into others' homes and their lives is a two fold, for me. Interesting, amazing and beautiful things is what I find but I also find myself getting frustrated at my lack of ability, patience, creativity and even 'order' that I see in their homes. I have a dear friend who does not even attempt blogs b/c of this very reason. Albeit, a very good reason. It gets depressing!
I try to remind myself that I do not see their whole life, and many do not blog about the negative aspects and hardships of a homeschooling family life. So, all that others see is this super good part of their lives and we think it's like that all the time. Which, when really thought about, is SO not true! No one or no family can ever be perfect! I remind myself that many of these large families come from large families themselves...they are accustomed to the craziness and loudness and messiness that a large family brings. They know how to adapt much more quickly than others (ahem...) and we can start to compare ourselves and our families to others, esp. if we do not even really know them! How foolish.
God knows our hearts. God knows what He is doing. God sees my efforts to do the smallest task and He sees my love that I do it with, for Him, and He blesses me with such graces. I can only imagine that this would equal all those others immaculate homes, those super creative art projects, those darling matching outfits their kidos wear, and those other things. To God be the glory!
But what a trap this is, isn't it?
Now, it's time for me to get another cup of coffee and think about that some more all the while I teach my kidos! Rainy days ALWAYS summon another cup! ;)
May God bless your day,
Mary
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Sin-freeeeeeee
I am so happy and proud to announce that we have 2 very sparkling clean souls in our household!
2 of my bigger kids, kid #2 and kid #3, went to their First Confession last night. 200 children and 2 hours later-they are shining bright with holiness! Yes, that many children and that long, I am not kidding. This year I have both of these kidos in the same grade-2nd grade. The best decision I made-it is working SO well for all of us. A little bit of competition and peer pressure to get their work done goes a long way with these two! We realized that why push one child just to be a grade higher when clearly they are not ready for it. This is God's doing and how He made each child. I am just glad I figured it out and listened to Him early on and not when they were older. I have heard it is much harder when they get older to hold a child back a year.
Anyway, it is a 2 yr process of prep for their 1st Confession and 1st Holy Communion in our parish. We decided to not enroll them in the actual classes that the religious ed offers. They were totally okay with it-in fact, the RE director home schooled her own kids! What a blessing that homeschooling is so welcomed and encouraged around here. I am very thankful to God for this. We are using the Faith & Life series by Ignatius Press. We, as parents, find it awesome! The kids do too!!! IT is a great mix of learning and fun, coloring and writing. My children do not mind doing religion almost every day. Since we incorporate our Catholic Faith in ALL aspects of our life and our family, doing the religion 'book' is not that grueling for them :) I highly recommend this for all kids, even if they go to a CCD program. It is so easy and fun for parents to do with them, along with what they are learning in the classroom setting.
We have such an awesome diverse parish, with 31 countries represented (seriously!), that we were obviously the minority. We love our priests and parish and all the colors and beauty that is displayed. What a wonderful gift that my children get to see how 'universal' our Catholic Faith is!!! Growing up in a mainly white/Caucasian neighborhood, town and parish, I love that my own children get to see, early on, how widespread our Catholic Faith truly is.
We went as a whole family last night and I am glad we did. Even for 2 hours, I am glad we did. In fact, I sort of persisted with this decision with my husband-he thought the opposite. But, in the end, we are all SO glad we went. What a great learning experience and how awesome that my little children got to see what their big siblings got to do and what they have to look forward to. My kid #4 (age 6) and kid #6 (age 3) even asked us (ahem...begged us over and over) how they wanted to go to their own first confession THAT night! Now, that is a testimony to what a great decision it was to bring them all!
Now, onto a celebration party for my kids! We're all a little bit holier now!!!
God bless,
Mary
2 of my bigger kids, kid #2 and kid #3, went to their First Confession last night. 200 children and 2 hours later-they are shining bright with holiness! Yes, that many children and that long, I am not kidding. This year I have both of these kidos in the same grade-2nd grade. The best decision I made-it is working SO well for all of us. A little bit of competition and peer pressure to get their work done goes a long way with these two! We realized that why push one child just to be a grade higher when clearly they are not ready for it. This is God's doing and how He made each child. I am just glad I figured it out and listened to Him early on and not when they were older. I have heard it is much harder when they get older to hold a child back a year.
Anyway, it is a 2 yr process of prep for their 1st Confession and 1st Holy Communion in our parish. We decided to not enroll them in the actual classes that the religious ed offers. They were totally okay with it-in fact, the RE director home schooled her own kids! What a blessing that homeschooling is so welcomed and encouraged around here. I am very thankful to God for this. We are using the Faith & Life series by Ignatius Press. We, as parents, find it awesome! The kids do too!!! IT is a great mix of learning and fun, coloring and writing. My children do not mind doing religion almost every day. Since we incorporate our Catholic Faith in ALL aspects of our life and our family, doing the religion 'book' is not that grueling for them :) I highly recommend this for all kids, even if they go to a CCD program. It is so easy and fun for parents to do with them, along with what they are learning in the classroom setting.
We have such an awesome diverse parish, with 31 countries represented (seriously!), that we were obviously the minority. We love our priests and parish and all the colors and beauty that is displayed. What a wonderful gift that my children get to see how 'universal' our Catholic Faith is!!! Growing up in a mainly white/Caucasian neighborhood, town and parish, I love that my own children get to see, early on, how widespread our Catholic Faith truly is.
We went as a whole family last night and I am glad we did. Even for 2 hours, I am glad we did. In fact, I sort of persisted with this decision with my husband-he thought the opposite. But, in the end, we are all SO glad we went. What a great learning experience and how awesome that my little children got to see what their big siblings got to do and what they have to look forward to. My kid #4 (age 6) and kid #6 (age 3) even asked us (ahem...begged us over and over) how they wanted to go to their own first confession THAT night! Now, that is a testimony to what a great decision it was to bring them all!
Now, onto a celebration party for my kids! We're all a little bit holier now!!!
God bless,
Mary
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
It's not BAD if things are hard
Over these past few weeks I was convinced in a deeper loving manner of how when life is hard, it does not mean it is bad. When things in life may be difficult, it does not mean that it is not worth it.
I have been bombarded by others trying to escape the hardships of their life. For me, instead I am trying deeply to embrace my hardships, as they are very different from theirs... albeit still hardships. Knowing that it is God's Will for He either is making them happen or is allowing them to happen. Either way, there is peace. Believing that in all things, there is a greater good, even if we do not know what it is at that moment or may never know or may never understand the why's of it all.
The most difficult things in life are usually the ones most worth it.
Our world is craving the easy life. The life that everything goes smoothly and 'their way'. Of course, if asked if I'd rather have it easy or harder, my human side most definitely says the easy way.
But, in life, in reality, there is not many easy ways around things. Life is not easy. There is no easy way out.
Jesus reminds us of that cross that we must pick up to follow Him. He has the perfect cross for us, no matter what we may think of it.
And just because I may be upset that life in a big family and being a mother of many young children is difficult.... Well, of course it is. But that does not mean that it is not worth it.
Just as someone who trains for a marathon does not enjoy the pain and suffering accustomed to training long and grueling hours. The outcome is really good. Passing that finish line in that marathon is certainly worth it. Worth it so much, that sometimes that runner may even start dreaming of the next marathon. Much like the mother who just goes through a hard labor and birth may start dreaming of the fruit of their marital love, their next baby.
Staying married to the love of my life, my husband, is worth it.
Parenting a big family is worth it.
Homeschooling is worth it.
Our Catholic Faith is worth it.
The end product, our goal, Heaven, is totally worth it.
Period.
God bless,
Mary
I have been bombarded by others trying to escape the hardships of their life. For me, instead I am trying deeply to embrace my hardships, as they are very different from theirs... albeit still hardships. Knowing that it is God's Will for He either is making them happen or is allowing them to happen. Either way, there is peace. Believing that in all things, there is a greater good, even if we do not know what it is at that moment or may never know or may never understand the why's of it all.
The most difficult things in life are usually the ones most worth it.
Our world is craving the easy life. The life that everything goes smoothly and 'their way'. Of course, if asked if I'd rather have it easy or harder, my human side most definitely says the easy way.
But, in life, in reality, there is not many easy ways around things. Life is not easy. There is no easy way out.
Jesus reminds us of that cross that we must pick up to follow Him. He has the perfect cross for us, no matter what we may think of it.
And just because I may be upset that life in a big family and being a mother of many young children is difficult.... Well, of course it is. But that does not mean that it is not worth it.
Just as someone who trains for a marathon does not enjoy the pain and suffering accustomed to training long and grueling hours. The outcome is really good. Passing that finish line in that marathon is certainly worth it. Worth it so much, that sometimes that runner may even start dreaming of the next marathon. Much like the mother who just goes through a hard labor and birth may start dreaming of the fruit of their marital love, their next baby.
Staying married to the love of my life, my husband, is worth it.
Parenting a big family is worth it.
Homeschooling is worth it.
Our Catholic Faith is worth it.
The end product, our goal, Heaven, is totally worth it.
Period.
God bless,
Mary
Saturday, January 14, 2012
The love language of food
Guys love food, don't they?
Don't you love how they light up and get so pumped when they see the meal in front of them. Their eyes feasting on that food that the wife made. The way their whole demeanor changes, esp. if it is one of their ultra favorite meals!
We have a little rule, which is this:
Something so very symbolic...
The husbands' hard working hands holding the utensils grabbing onto the food that he worked so hard to earn the money. Our bodies being nourished by that food that the wife worked hard to prepare. We parents and our children sitting around the table of the blood, sweat and tears.
Living as a family, serving Jesus through one another, working together, and now all gathered around our table.
The table.
Reminds me of the Last Supper table, Jesus giving of His life. His blood, sweat and tears. Giving of His everything for us, as we gather around the altar table at Holy Mass ready to receive Him. How precious, how beautiful, how perfect.
Don't we all long for that perfect dinner time experience? You know the one I am talking about. Where everyone sits nicely with napkin on lap, everyone getting a chance to talk without interruptions, no yelling, crying or flip outs. Where the manners are at their best, none of the arm stretching over someones plate, instead with the "please pass the..." and the "thank you for passing the..." comments. Wouldn't that be something? I can dream, can't I? Maybe once the kids get older, things will change but for now, our dinner table time hardly resembles what I described. We have a long way to go but we are trying! :)
One thing is for sure for my husband and I and that is how much a family dinner, sitting down together means to us. I am always on the lookout for healthy and easy (let me stress EASY!) dinner recipes to make and I will share some of my favs with you in another post in the week b/c I found some great ones!!! :) There is no television in the background, just us together huddled around a not-so-big-as-I-wish-it -could-be-table. Together, praying and thanking God for our food, and just being together enjoying the food.
Some families never to do this and it truly saddens me. I guess they just don't know what they are missing.
So....what are you having for dinner tonight?
For us, it is homemade pizza being made by my oldest daughter and I!
(PSSST!....Practical idea is that each night I have a dinner helper-each one of my kidos has a specific night. Does it take longer? You betcha. But I wouldn't trade these experiences for doing it all by myself everynight. Ever.)
God bless,
Mary
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Simplify like the Amish
Ever have that desire to simplify your house? Yeah, me too. Most of the time, actually!:)
I walk around thinking if we just didn't have this much 'stuff' then we wouldn't have such a messy crazy house. Then quickly, I reassure myself by saying it is b/c of having 7 young children that I have to have 2 or 3 of most things that families have only 1 of. It makes sense, right? Well, I am still trying to convince myself of this as I stumble of millions of matchbox cars, blocks and laundry strewn throughout our house. So, what is this mother of many to do?!
Go check out the Amish, that's what. Not actually going there but researching how they do it and exactly what they do.
Those Amish are so intriguing, aren't they?
I got a cookbook out on them. It isn't a book just about recipes, although I did find it with the cookbooks. This one is different. Sure, it gives recipes (which I love and happy to note that I must have Amish blood in me or something b/c I make so many of the same foods! No, really, I do not have amish blood in me...just kidding.) But this book is a compile of recollections and recipes of an Amish family. That, to me, is so interesting.
My kids found the 'cookbook' laying on my kitchen counter as I whipped up our first "Amish Chicken Casserole"-it was a thumbs-up for sure. Easy too. I was lost at what to make with leftover chicken so I resorted to look into that cookbook and found an easy recipe that I usually do but adding 2 different ingredients than I would have used.
My kids are enthralled with them too. They are fascinated with their daily schedule and their hard work and chores. I think, in a way, they can relate. Within a big family, there is no getting out of or around chores. They have to be done. Period. In order to survive and have a good flow for our day, chores and responsibilities need to be done.
So, today, they have deemed it to be an Amish day. My girls in dresses, sweaters and bonnets. Even the baby is sporting one! So cute...(and I cannot believe she will be ONE in ONE week!?!!? ) Boys in collared button down shirts, suspenders and all. Even me, crazy momma, has on a resemblances of Amish wear- a long dark blue jean skirt, dark grey shirt and my pampered chef jean apron. I figured why not jump in on the fun?! The look and life of Amish reminds them of Little House on the Prairie and my kids love that too so this is so 'natural' to them to love.
I thought this might be a great way to learn some more about simply living ..."so others can simply live" as that popular saying goes. And how true it is!
So, back to simplifying our house. First, I am on a mission to get rid of some books. We have SO many and I LOVE books and I LOVE to see my kids reading books. What mom wouldn't? They are causing great messes and a certain super cute almost 1 yr old is into pulling them down off shelves. Not fun for it happens so much.
Simplifying our lives is not just in materialism, for we are removed a bit from the 'real world' already and that gives us ample opportunities to live simply b/c they do not know what they are missing. Awe...innocence is so beautiful.
So much to write but since being 'amish' today...I should not even be using this technology! haaa haaaa
God bless,
Mary
I walk around thinking if we just didn't have this much 'stuff' then we wouldn't have such a messy crazy house. Then quickly, I reassure myself by saying it is b/c of having 7 young children that I have to have 2 or 3 of most things that families have only 1 of. It makes sense, right? Well, I am still trying to convince myself of this as I stumble of millions of matchbox cars, blocks and laundry strewn throughout our house. So, what is this mother of many to do?!
Go check out the Amish, that's what. Not actually going there but researching how they do it and exactly what they do.
Those Amish are so intriguing, aren't they?
I got a cookbook out on them. It isn't a book just about recipes, although I did find it with the cookbooks. This one is different. Sure, it gives recipes (which I love and happy to note that I must have Amish blood in me or something b/c I make so many of the same foods! No, really, I do not have amish blood in me...just kidding.) But this book is a compile of recollections and recipes of an Amish family. That, to me, is so interesting.
My kids found the 'cookbook' laying on my kitchen counter as I whipped up our first "Amish Chicken Casserole"-it was a thumbs-up for sure. Easy too. I was lost at what to make with leftover chicken so I resorted to look into that cookbook and found an easy recipe that I usually do but adding 2 different ingredients than I would have used.
My kids are enthralled with them too. They are fascinated with their daily schedule and their hard work and chores. I think, in a way, they can relate. Within a big family, there is no getting out of or around chores. They have to be done. Period. In order to survive and have a good flow for our day, chores and responsibilities need to be done.
So, today, they have deemed it to be an Amish day. My girls in dresses, sweaters and bonnets. Even the baby is sporting one! So cute...(and I cannot believe she will be ONE in ONE week!?!!? ) Boys in collared button down shirts, suspenders and all. Even me, crazy momma, has on a resemblances of Amish wear- a long dark blue jean skirt, dark grey shirt and my pampered chef jean apron. I figured why not jump in on the fun?! The look and life of Amish reminds them of Little House on the Prairie and my kids love that too so this is so 'natural' to them to love.
I thought this might be a great way to learn some more about simply living ..."so others can simply live" as that popular saying goes. And how true it is!
So, back to simplifying our house. First, I am on a mission to get rid of some books. We have SO many and I LOVE books and I LOVE to see my kids reading books. What mom wouldn't? They are causing great messes and a certain super cute almost 1 yr old is into pulling them down off shelves. Not fun for it happens so much.
Simplifying our lives is not just in materialism, for we are removed a bit from the 'real world' already and that gives us ample opportunities to live simply b/c they do not know what they are missing. Awe...innocence is so beautiful.
So much to write but since being 'amish' today...I should not even be using this technology! haaa haaaa
God bless,
Mary
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Quick Posts
- Kids are all sick...some with fevers, some without. The price we had to pay to see family over the Christmas season! But I am so happy I went with my Lil' Lady and drive 4 1/2 hours to see my sister and her family for 2 nights...and I did not even get lost! We had a great time! Tylenol is a great invention. Thank you God for tylenol. Tylenol, you are my best friend right now.
- It is cold outside today. I mean C-O-L-D as in 15 degrees this morning COLD. And where are my kids? All bundled up right now checking out the little ice pond in our woods in the backyard. My oldest has his ice skates on! He yelled up to me "Hey Mom! Ya know the smaller the pond is-the stronger it is!" Brilliant. Learning by doing. Another reason I just love homeschooling.
- I have heard so much "eeny meeeny mineeee mooooo...catch a tiger by his toe...." remember that song? It abounds everywhere in this house lately. I guess it is a good way to share other than fighting. I'll take it.
- Winter projects for this winter is: Latch Hooking for the 4 oldest kids and reading. Lots of reading.
- We just finished "The Secret Garden" book and now onto "Betsy and Tacy" book #1. I am loving this new idea of reading to some of my kids in my bed at night for 30-45mins. They all love it too and the best thing about it is how they willingly go straight to bed afterwards. This is my favorite time of the day besides spending time w/my wonderful hubby and eating sweet treats. Oh, those treats and those pounds.
- Talking about pounds. My darling 2 sisters and I are starting up a BIggest Loser Contest for 8 weeks to see who looses the most pounds. I bet I am last right now. How come that Popcorn Factory popcorn has to be so good? I mean, really. argh.
- New Years Resolutions. Love them. Hate them. Right? The best accomplishment is that I made my list light years (well, really just a few days!) before my husband-my goal driven-check off listin'-good disciplined husband! Now, that is an AWESOME accomplishment that I can check off first! haa haaa :P
- Still working through some issues with my miscarriage. Healthwise I am doing wonderfully. But emotionally, forget it. I am a mess...but slowly getting better. Much better this week than 2 weeks ago. Holidays can do that, I suppose. My kids all agreed that our sweet lil' Therese had to have a CHristmas stocking to hang up. That, pretty much, did me in. Yeah. Tough.
- Remember I just said how my kids are all out in this COLD? Well, now my just turned 8 year old is smearing his tongue all over the deck door right now. Hilarious! Really reminds me of this from "Christmas Story"!!! Yikes!!!
Now my kids are in. They lasted a good 20 mins in this cold. Yeah!
Bring on some snow! We're ready. Hello Winter! :P
God bless,
Mary
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Horse Hair Teeth
Weird title of this post, huh?
On Friday, one of my sons came up from the playroom to tell me something and all I heard was "Blah...blah...blah...horse hair...so I'm gonna brush my teeth."
My curiosity was peeked and I asked him again...this time I heard right:
"Sister said my breath smells like horse hair so I'm gonna brush my teeth."
HAA HAAA!!!
Now that's what I call motivation!!! HAAA HAAA!!!
God bless,
Mary
On Friday, one of my sons came up from the playroom to tell me something and all I heard was "Blah...blah...blah...horse hair...so I'm gonna brush my teeth."
My curiosity was peeked and I asked him again...this time I heard right:
"Sister said my breath smells like horse hair so I'm gonna brush my teeth."
HAA HAAA!!!
Now that's what I call motivation!!! HAAA HAAA!!!
God bless,
Mary
Saturday, December 3, 2011
My day full of Blessings
Today was a day full of a mix of feelings and emotions.
It was (is) my husband's birthday. Happy Birthday to you! I am so happy to be a part of your life and so thankful that God blessed me with you and the fruit of our love....our 8 beautiful children. You truly are my helper, my true companion on this journey of life heading for our final destination. Your life blesses me and I thank God for that. Happy Birthday!
It is also my oldest sons' Baptism day...11 yrs ago! Happy Baptism day!!!
Lastly, this morning, we added yet another memorable experience....
We buried Therese's remains.
It was harder than I thought it would be. You see, I had hoped with all my heart that I could go through this miscarriage naturally, not needing a D&C, unless I absolutely needed one. God granted me this prayer request and I did naturally. It was much more than just a 'bad period' as some say. Way more. In fact, these past 3 weeks have been very tough on me emotionally, physically and spiritually.
I was a wreck thinking of how and where I would put my baby's remains and what to do with them. It really concerned me and upset me. I thought about going to a Michael's store and buy a sweet little box that we could decorate somehow, to make it very personal to our family. I had visions of my children all helping out and making it a family affair. But, I thought time was not on my side. I hate to say that. How could I NOT make time for this important ordeal? I realized afterwards that time was not really the issue, it was more about investing even more of me and more of my kids, more of my heart into this child that was mine for 10 weeks. I was so sore, physically but my heart was what ached and is aching even more. I ache to hold my child more. I asked God "why?" and sure, I was a bit upset at God. But thankfully, that did not last long. I have some days when life just unravels and then I think of Therese or see something that would remind me of her and the tears would drop a little here and a little there, sometimes even turning into a flowing river! This grief is not over, it is better, but not over yet.
About 2 days before I had the actual miscarriage-the major part of it- in one day and has continued to linger on, it occurred to me that I have had this most beautiful box that was engraved with gold flowers and vines on the top.
It reminds me of Psalm 128:3:
It could be considered a sweet keepsake box. It is red velvet inside and made of the best solid wood. That would be it! I was so relieved to know that I already had this tiny little coffin already in my own room, in my drawers, for the past 3 or 4 years. Could it be that God has this all planned? That is my belief. He knew way before I did that that teeny tiny box would be something special. In fact, it was given to me and I did not know what to use it for so I put in these really tiny saint statues in it so that they would be secure and not break. Little did I know that our sweet teeny tiny Therese would be our real live Saint in there now.
The wonderful priest said some beautiful prayers as I held out the box near my husband and our children huddled around us. I did not show or tell the children that this box carried their baby sister's remains until afterward. I thought it to be too much of a distraction with so many questions and maybe that was not the right thing to do but I thought so at the time. I was so caught up in holding my child for the last time, that at the time that I had to hand over this tiny wooden coffin to Father, that it was one of the hardest things I ever had to do...to really let go of my baby. My eyes filled up with tears. My husband noticed my pain, my sorrow...some of my children did as well.
It was closure. It was over. It is finished.
Our little Saint Therese Avila, pray for your family here on earth to be holy and get to Heaven to finally meet you, God, Mary and all our patron Saints and Guardian Angels. We love you!
God bless,
Mary
It was (is) my husband's birthday. Happy Birthday to you! I am so happy to be a part of your life and so thankful that God blessed me with you and the fruit of our love....our 8 beautiful children. You truly are my helper, my true companion on this journey of life heading for our final destination. Your life blesses me and I thank God for that. Happy Birthday!
It is also my oldest sons' Baptism day...11 yrs ago! Happy Baptism day!!!
Lastly, this morning, we added yet another memorable experience....
We buried Therese's remains.
It was harder than I thought it would be. You see, I had hoped with all my heart that I could go through this miscarriage naturally, not needing a D&C, unless I absolutely needed one. God granted me this prayer request and I did naturally. It was much more than just a 'bad period' as some say. Way more. In fact, these past 3 weeks have been very tough on me emotionally, physically and spiritually.
I was a wreck thinking of how and where I would put my baby's remains and what to do with them. It really concerned me and upset me. I thought about going to a Michael's store and buy a sweet little box that we could decorate somehow, to make it very personal to our family. I had visions of my children all helping out and making it a family affair. But, I thought time was not on my side. I hate to say that. How could I NOT make time for this important ordeal? I realized afterwards that time was not really the issue, it was more about investing even more of me and more of my kids, more of my heart into this child that was mine for 10 weeks. I was so sore, physically but my heart was what ached and is aching even more. I ache to hold my child more. I asked God "why?" and sure, I was a bit upset at God. But thankfully, that did not last long. I have some days when life just unravels and then I think of Therese or see something that would remind me of her and the tears would drop a little here and a little there, sometimes even turning into a flowing river! This grief is not over, it is better, but not over yet.
About 2 days before I had the actual miscarriage-the major part of it- in one day and has continued to linger on, it occurred to me that I have had this most beautiful box that was engraved with gold flowers and vines on the top.
It reminds me of Psalm 128:3:
"Your wife should be like a fruitful vine within your house,
your children like olive plants around your table."
It could be considered a sweet keepsake box. It is red velvet inside and made of the best solid wood. That would be it! I was so relieved to know that I already had this tiny little coffin already in my own room, in my drawers, for the past 3 or 4 years. Could it be that God has this all planned? That is my belief. He knew way before I did that that teeny tiny box would be something special. In fact, it was given to me and I did not know what to use it for so I put in these really tiny saint statues in it so that they would be secure and not break. Little did I know that our sweet teeny tiny Therese would be our real live Saint in there now.
The wonderful priest said some beautiful prayers as I held out the box near my husband and our children huddled around us. I did not show or tell the children that this box carried their baby sister's remains until afterward. I thought it to be too much of a distraction with so many questions and maybe that was not the right thing to do but I thought so at the time. I was so caught up in holding my child for the last time, that at the time that I had to hand over this tiny wooden coffin to Father, that it was one of the hardest things I ever had to do...to really let go of my baby. My eyes filled up with tears. My husband noticed my pain, my sorrow...some of my children did as well.
It was closure. It was over. It is finished.
Our little Saint Therese Avila, pray for your family here on earth to be holy and get to Heaven to finally meet you, God, Mary and all our patron Saints and Guardian Angels. We love you!
God bless,
Mary
Friday, October 14, 2011
Quote of the Day and prayer request
A lot of things have been going on around here....we just got back from a trip up north due to my husband's grandfather who died a week ago tomorrow.
Lil' Lady was on 2 diff types of antibiotics due to ear infection. She finished her second one the day we left on our trip. She started again w/runny nose 2 days ago and not sleeping. I bet that ear infection is back. This will be the 3rd one in under 2 months. They may discuss tubes for her ears. ALthough I know it is pretty routine for most youngsters, none of mine ever had them. My lil lady is only 8 1/2 months old and this scares me that she would have to endure those tubes. But, if it is God's Will to have them, I ask for prayers for my Lil' Lady. Thanks.
Since we suddenly stopped schooling to travel (Thank God for homeschooling and our ability to do that!), we have strugged these last 2 days trying to get back into the mode of school work. There is quite a lot of rebellion going on and that charity needs to be much more apparent too!
The funeral was as nice as one can be. It was such a learning experience for my kids. This year we have been talking a lot about soul vs. body and this experience made it not so abstract but so real to them. We are so thankful to God to have the chance to go to the funeral, see family and see our missed friends....we miss you guys so much!
Lastly, a quote that is on my heart today from my favorite MOTHER THERESA:
Mary
Lil' Lady was on 2 diff types of antibiotics due to ear infection. She finished her second one the day we left on our trip. She started again w/runny nose 2 days ago and not sleeping. I bet that ear infection is back. This will be the 3rd one in under 2 months. They may discuss tubes for her ears. ALthough I know it is pretty routine for most youngsters, none of mine ever had them. My lil lady is only 8 1/2 months old and this scares me that she would have to endure those tubes. But, if it is God's Will to have them, I ask for prayers for my Lil' Lady. Thanks.
Since we suddenly stopped schooling to travel (Thank God for homeschooling and our ability to do that!), we have strugged these last 2 days trying to get back into the mode of school work. There is quite a lot of rebellion going on and that charity needs to be much more apparent too!
The funeral was as nice as one can be. It was such a learning experience for my kids. This year we have been talking a lot about soul vs. body and this experience made it not so abstract but so real to them. We are so thankful to God to have the chance to go to the funeral, see family and see our missed friends....we miss you guys so much!
Lastly, a quote that is on my heart today from my favorite MOTHER THERESA:
"I know God will not give me anything I can't handle. I just wish He didn't trust me so much."
God bless,Mary
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