Saint Maker

Love the sinner, hate the sin

2010-11-03T11:14:00.000-04:00

"You will be hated by all because of My name, but it is the one who has endured to the end who will be saved." Matthew 10:22

Come Holy Spirit
Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love.
V. Send forth your Spirit, and they shall be created.
R. And You shall renew the face of the earth.
Let us pray.
O, God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations. Through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

God loves us so much that no matter what we do, He will always love us. His love is a testament to what unconditional love truly means. There is NO sin greater than His love.

Psalm 27:10
For my father and my mother have forsaken me, But the LORD will take me up.

It is a tempting world. It is up to us to walk in God's ways and to choose Him. The beauty and magnificence of our Lord is that He recognizes our weaknesses, and that is in fact what makes us so precious to Him. It is up to us to return to Him over and over again, just like the prodigal son. He will greet us with open arms and welcome us back again and again.

None of us is without sin. Some sins may seem greater than others but we all sin. Thank GOD almighty that I have not been tempted to murder. But I am no better than the worst criminal in jail today. God loves me the same as everyone walking the earth today. When I feel puffed up and full of ego, I remind myself of this very fact. I am who I am because of the graces God gave me. It is up to me, to share my Love with others. To forgive unconditionally, and pray for those in great peril of perishing to Hell. Much is given much is expected.

Love the sinner, hate the sin.

But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8

Love the sinner.

Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. Romans 12:9

Hate the sin.

It sometimes seems confusing to be a christian today. The secular world would like us to believe that if we do not approve of pre-marital sex, homosexuality, abortion, birth control, etc., that we are hate-mongers. However, Jesus teaches us to LOVE.

Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ Matthew 22:37-39

Yet if we blindly sit by and nod with approval we are subjecting ourselves to eternal death, by way of example to anyone who follows us.

"It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were thrown into the sea, than that he would cause one of these little ones to stumble. Luke 17:2

Confusion of course does not come from God. He gave us straight forward commandments to follow. He gave us a book full of directions to follow. There is no mixing words with God.

Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who substitute darkness for light and light for darkness; Who substitute bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter! Isaiah 5:20

The secular world in which we live is full of such contradictions.

Take for example the television shows, talk shows, reality shows, which show boldly, people living together as married people, but are not married. They look nice, they smile, they pay their bills, they love each other, they sometimes make us laugh, and they even appear to be wonderful parents. Run from such programs. Run, and don't look back. Offer a prayer and the sacrifice of your time from that program for the salvation of souls. " abstain from every form of evil." 1 Thessalonians 5:22

But because of immoralities, each man is to have his own wife, and each woman is to have her own husband. 1 Corinthians 7:2

Even God's words are toyed with. When I heard a talk show host being interviews and she boldly proclaimed that she was married to a woman. I sat there just numb. I like this person. How can she lose her salvation for the sake of herself. People are clapping, they are smiling, they approve. I shake my head, and say a silent prayer.

How I wish she were my friend and I could call her up and share God with her, and promise her that if she put herself aside, and became very small here on earth, God would be there with all His mercy the day she takes her last breath. I wish I could warn her about misleading others.

Sweet Jesus, let your light shine upon all. Let them hear your good name, so that they may come out of the darkness, walk into your light, and feel the shelter of your love. Lead them from temptation, and into your arms where they will find true love, and true forgiveness. amen.

Jude 7 (NIV)

7 In a similar way, Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding towns gave themselves up to sexual immorality and perversion. They serve as an example of those who suffer the punishment of eternal fire.

When I think of a young child being subjected to this sort of contradiction, I am saddened. I am not full of hate, I am sad. I know that Jesus loves that actor/actress, just as he loves me, but somewhere someone has given them a stamp of approval and they proceed to spread their darkness, as light, to others.

We are not in heaven. There is much suffering here on earth. It is this life here on earth we live that will bring about our eternal bliss. We have to put ourselves aside and let God rule our hearts. This is not easy, but we try our best, we stumble, we ask for forgiveness, and we pick ourselves up and start again.

If grains of sand on earth represent a life, say 100 years, and all of them together represent eternity, never ending life, then I would be afraid to go against God. I look at the sand full of grains at our nearby beach and I shudder to think that my eternity could be spent, only by choice and not by accident, in eternal fire.

If your right eye makes you stumble, tear it out and throw it from you; for it is better for you to lose one of the parts of your body, than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. “If your right hand makes you stumble, cut it off and throw it from you; for it is better for you to lose one of the parts of your body, than for your whole body to go into hell. Matthew 5:29-30

This is not heaven. This is my opportunity to choose God. It is my choice.

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. John 3:16

For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved Romans 10:12-13

but just as it is written, "THINGS WHICH EYE HAS NOT SEEN AND EAR HAS NOT HEARD, AND which HAVE NOT ENTERED THE HEART OF MAN, ALL THAT GOD HAS PREPARED FOR THOSE WHO LOVE HIM." 1 Corinthians 2:9

There is no sin, greater than God's mercy.

"You will be hated by all because of My name, but it is the one who has endured to the end who will be saved." Matthew 10:22

Visiting a Cemetery

2010-11-01T11:22:00.007-04:00

From The Blue Pieta Booklet

Visiting a Cemetery

An indulgence is granted the Christian faithful who devoutly visit a cemetery and pray, if only momentarily, for the dead. This indulgence is applicable only to the souls in purgatory. The indulgence is a plenary one from November 1 through November 8 and can be gained on each one of these days. on the other days of the year this indulgence is a partial one.

"It is therefore, a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from sin." (2 Mach. 12:46)

From Catechism of the Catholic Church:

X. INDULGENCES

1471 The doctrine and practice of indulgences in the Church are closely linked to the effects of the sacrament of Penance.
What is an indulgence?
"An indulgence is a remission before God of the temporal punishment due to sins whose guilt has already been forgiven, which the faithful Christian who is duly disposed gains under certain prescribed conditions through the action of the Church which, as the minister of redemption, dispenses and applies with authority the treasury of the satisfactions of Christ and the saints."⁸¹
"An indulgence is partial or plenary according as it removes either part or all of the temporal punishment due to sin."⁸² The faithful can gain indulgences for themselves or apply them to the dead.^NT

Indulgences - General Conditions

The traditional norm for going to confession, receiving Holy Communion, and praying for the intentions of the pope, in order to gain a plenary indulgence, was 8 days before or after doing the prescribed work (counting the day of the work). In the Great Jubilee Year 2000, the Apostolic Penitentiary relaxed this norm to "several days (about 20) before or after the indulgenced act" (Gift of the Indulgence, General remarks, 5). The question often arises whether this norm of about 20 days applied only to the Great Jubilee Year Indulgence, or whether it remains in effect.
In an answer to a question posed by this author, the Apostolic Penitentiary responded that this norm of "about 20 days" remains in effect, since it was contained under the "General remarks on indulgences," and not under those specific to the Jubilee Indulgence.
The following "General remarks on Indulgences" from Gift of the Indulgence summarizes, therefore, the usual conditions given in the Church's law:

1. This is how an indulgence is defined in the Code of Canon Law (can. 992) and in the Catechism of the Catholic Church (n. 1471): "An indulgence is a remission before God of the temporal punishment due to sins whose guilt has already been forgiven, which the faithful Christian who is duly disposed gains under certain prescribed conditions through the action of the Church which, as the minister of redemption, dispenses and applies with authority the treasury of the satisfactions of Christ and the saints".

2. In general, the gaining of indulgences requires certain prescribed conditions (below, nn. 3, 4), and the performance of certain prescribed works .....
[N.B. The grants of indulgence are contained in the Enchiridion Indulgentiarum (4th ed., 1999), in special grants of the Holy See, such as for the Year of the Holy Eucharist, and in special grants which bishops may establish for their dioceses.]

3. To gain indulgences, whether plenary or partial, it is necessary that the faithful be in the state of grace at least at the time the indulgenced work is completed.
[N.B. Thus, one must be a Catholic in communion with the Pope, i.e. not excommunicated or in schism.]

4. A plenary indulgence can be gained only once a day. In order to obtain it, the faithful must, in addition to being in the state of grace:
—have the interior disposition of complete detachment from sin, even venial sin;

—have sacramentally confessed their sins;

—receive the Holy Eucharist (it is certainly better to receive it while participating in Holy Mass, but for the indulgence only Holy Communion is required);

—pray for the intentions of the Supreme Pontiff.

5. It is appropriate, but not necessary, that the sacramental Confession and especially Holy Communion and the prayer for the Pope's intentions take place on the same day that the indulgenced work is performed; but it is sufficient that these sacred rites and prayers be carried out within several days (about 20) before or after the indulgenced act. Prayer for the Pope's intentions is left to the choice of the faithful, but an "Our Father" and a "Hail Mary" are suggested. One sacramental Confession suffices for several plenary indulgences, but a separate Holy Communion and a separate prayer for the Holy Father's intentions are required for each plenary indulgence.

6. For the sake of those legitimately impeded, confessors can commute both the work prescribed and the conditions required (except, obviously, detachment from even venial sin).

7. Indulgences can always be applied either to oneself or to the souls of the deceased, but they cannot be applied to other persons living on earth.

Answered by Colin B. Donovan, STL

"God + 1 = An Army"

2010-09-29T09:32:00.000-04:00

What a powerful thought. That with God, we, alone in our homes, can equal an army. I've not been able to verify the validity of this quote, but I'm told it was one of St. Theresa's, of Avila.

St. Theresa, the little flower, is considered one of the greatest Saints of our faith. She is one of 3 doctors of our faith. Yet she lived a short, sheltered life, behind the walls of a convent. She gives us each hope, that we too can help those in need in our own "little way." Not only help those in need, but we can become like an ARMY for God. Through prayer, fasting, and works of mercy, we can effect change in our world. Wow that is powerful!

It is one thing to pray, and by all means prayer is so very important, but it is really putting our money where
our mouth is, to offer sacrifices with our prayers. We ask for what we want and we're willing to show our commitment to this request, by offering gifts to God. Returning the love.

In Mark 9:29,
And he said to them: This kind can go out by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.

Our priest during a homily said, "Prayer does not change God." That short statement speaks volumes. Prayer changes us, because God loves us, as we are right now. He loves us unconditionally.

Psalm 27:10, tells us, "For my father and my mother have left me: but the Lord hath taken me up. "

We have read the horror stories, or heard them in the news, of mothers and fathers causing their children harm, but even if this happens, God will still love us. He will always be there for us.

May I suggest that you become an Army for Christ today! Start small. Perhaps give up a second cup of coffee, or a favorite TV show along with your prayer requests. Then build upon this by offering tasks, errands, desserts, etc. There are so many in need today. It is possible for us, in our homes, to make a difference in the world. Lets not miss this opportunity!

Offer it up!

2010-09-16T10:14:00.000-04:00

I can remember as a child falling off my bike and cutting my knee. I was fairly young and remember running into the house where my mother pulled me close and comforted me. I'm not sure who said, it, either my mother or my father but at one point, I heard, "offer it up." This may not have even been the first time I'd heard that phrase. But it resonated in me and I could hear the words in my head throughout my life.

Now it is my turn to parent and I've said the same thing, but one of my kids said, "to who? What are you talking about?" And I do recall as a child I didn't quite understand either, so I thought I'd do my best to explain it.

I looked at my precious one and said, "well sweetness, sometimes the most loving thing we can do is give to others, but if we can't reach them, we ask God to give it to them for us, as a surprise. For example, I'm asking you to clean your room, and you could offer that task as a gift for a child who does not have a sister to share a room with." Even at eight they roll their eyes. "So if you do it with a smile, God will wrap that lovely gift with a shiny bow, and the little girl will not go to sleep lonely, or sad." That got her. She turned to me and nodded like she got it. And I added, "Maybe if you ask God he will let you send your Guardian Angel to bring the gift." My sweet little girl cleaned her room, as well as an eight year old can do who shares a room with a six year old sister, "who messes up everything!"

I will say it does make doing the dishes a little less mundane if I know that I can ask God to give it to my friend at the bus stop who is struggling in her marriage, or the lady at the grocery store whose husband is in Iraq. Or the mother I see on TV sobbing because her child is missing.

I think of "offering up" as a fasting from self. I can add to that by offering up other things, like extra helpings of food, or eating out as a 'gift' for someone else in need.

Mother Theresa said to never waste a sacrifice. I think those are wise words.

Mark 9:14-29
14 And coming to his disciples, he saw a great multitude about them, and the scribes disputing with them. 15 And presently all the people seeing Jesus, were astonished and struck with fear; and running to him, they saluted him. 16 And he asked them: What do you question about among you? 17 And one of the multitude, answering, said: Master, I have brought my son to thee, having a dumb spirit. 18 Who, wheresoever he taketh him, dasheth him, and he foameth, and gnasheth with the teeth, and pineth away; and I spoke to thy disciples to cast him out, and they could not. 19 Who answering them, said: O incredulous generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him unto me. 20 And they brought him. And when he had seen him, immediately the spirit troubled him; and being thrown down upon the ground, he rolled about foaming. 21 And he asked his father: How long time is it since this hath happened unto him? But he said: From his infancy: 22 And oftentimes hath he cast him into the fire and into waters to destroy him. But if thou canst do any thing, help us, having compassion on us. 23 And Jesus saith to him: If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. 24 And immediately the father of the boy crying out, with tears said: I do believe, Lord: help my unbelief. 25 And when Jesus saw the multitude running together, he threatened the unclean spirit, saying to him: Deaf and dumb spirit, I command thee, go out of him; and enter not any more into him. 26 And crying out, and greatly tearing him, he went out of him, and he became as dead, so that many said: He is dead. 27 But Jesus taking him by the hand, lifted him up; and he arose. 28 And when he was come into the house, his disciples secretly asked him: Why could not we cast him out? 29 And he said to them: This kind can go out by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.

My $2,500 I-pod plays 300 songs, I-giveup

2010-07-30T12:20:00.005-04:00

I realize there are bigger fish to fry than trying to tackle apple and their i-pod. Let's face it I'm a small person & in a big company and they will never even know I'm alive.

But I must vent somewhere...
My son washed my i-pod in the washing machine... the really bad thing is, I'm a swimmer and I had a perfectly good waterproof case for it. Naturally when it was washed the case was not on it. I've DEALT with my son who will never touch my i-pod again... my new one that is. Yes, I had to get a new one. You see that wasn't the first time he'd washed it. Although it is nice and clean it is basically a useless $250 piece of trash. Although there are companies for a fee that will resurrect my i-pod, or so they say... that is something I may consider, some day...

Alas my grief with apple is not over the washed i-pod, that is certainly not their fault, my beef with i-pod is their i-tunes set up. They have so much fear of being cheated that the legitimate consumers like myself have to jump through hoops and catch rainbows before ever getting all their music on to ONE i-pod.

See if you can follow this music trail. Many years ago we bought a family computer, we downloaded songs for our first gen i-pod. Then as my children went from tots to teens they purchased i-pods and opened i-tunes accounts. Then from there when the family computer became over burdened, Mommy got a fancy new laptop. But getting all the songs from family cmoptuer to moms laptop never happened. Some came some did not. Then follow the story to mom gave the laptop to one of the college kids, and purchased a new laptop, and again the same song and dance with i-tunes, you can have some songs but not all. Well in my mind I estimate, that we have in total purchased some $1000+ songs from i-tunes but at present I'm only allowed to have 300+ songs. I'm not going to describe the choreography of how i-tunes-apple-jacks wants me to register my i-pod with one computer... my head is literally spinning right now...

For all the apple enthusiasts out there i KNOW you are going to come back and tell me how to do whatever to whatever to have whatever but all I can say is

Whatever

it would be much easier to skydive to a record store and purchase the CD's than to jump through this menagerie of tricks apple wants me to do

Amazon, my son has been telling me for YEARS," mom stop d/l i-tunes, amazon is cheaper and much more reliable. Easy to put on all your computers and your i-pod"

So there. Amazon, here I come.

Incase you didn't follow it, the total cost of my i-pod includes all the generations, plus the songs, winding up with a really expensive piece of junk.

OH and btw, I can now take video with my newest i-pod, but not pictures, and we can't get the video's off the i-pod sadly so we'll just sit around my 2inch screen and watch the videos of our vacation.

Well this will not even be spell checked or re-read, as I've been trying to d/l songs for my i-pod and I'd rather go song-less, than miss out on some swimming pool time.....

John 6:47-64

2010-04-20T11:53:00.005-04:00

Wow, this is an amazing video! God doesn't have to prove himself to us, but when he does it is such a gift! Please enjoy, and pass on!

milagro eucaristico buenos aires argentina

Eucharistic miracle Buenos Aires Argentina

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qbg_dhI4XCs

Peter Denies Christ, John 18:17

2010-03-01T14:53:00.016-05:00

I had been feeling out of sorts... anxious, and a little down. Normally I would have ignored these feelings and pushed them. Of course then they manifest themselves in ways I'd rather not. Sometimes I get overly cranky with my family, hard to believe, I know. Sometimes I have been drawn to grab a cookie or a feel-good treat. But instead of ignoring this feeling I prayed and opened to scripture. I was led to read John 18:17.

17 Then the maid who was the gatekeeper said to Peter, "You are not one of this man's disciples, are you?" He said, "I am not."

I sat for a minute and went. Huh. OK Lord, It is the season of lent, and this is apropos, but I would NEVER deny Christ. Even as child I would hear the passion being read out loud and I would be appalled that anyone could deny our Lord. I know all of us have felt this way.

So I called upon the Holy Spirit to enlighten me.

"Come Holy Spirit fill the hearts of thy faithful and enkindle in them the fire of your love!"

Then slowly the message seeped into my brain, of what is left of it. I realize that God was trying to tell me that each time I allow anxiousness, depression, or any other negative, overwhelming thought take me away from Christ, I am denying Him. This is not to say that I should be punished for 'feeling' these things. I am human, I am supposed to feel these things. But rather than wallow in it, I can turn to Him who has the answer for everything. Then I can accept these feelings, know they will pass and offer them as a sacrifice for someone else.

"Life is only a dream: soon, we shall awaken. And what joy! The greater our sufferings, the more limitless our glory. Oh! do not let us waste the trial that Jesus sends."

~ St. Therese of Lisieux, Doctor of the Church

Do not fear...

2009-04-22T15:58:00.004-04:00

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble, Therefore we will not fear though the earth should change, Though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult. "Be still, and know that I am God. I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth!" The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge. Psalm 46 1-3, 10-11

Divine Mercy Sunday

2009-04-19T10:24:00.003-04:00

I hope everyone has a blessed and happy day!
Check out Feast of Divine Mercy!

Never Been Kissed, Susan Boyle

2009-04-15T10:03:00.001-04:00

Enjoy!

Susan Boyle - Singer - Britains Got Talent 2009
Uploaded by moovieblog

Temptation

2009-03-20T11:56:00.011-04:00

At mass this morning, father mentioned that today was the halfway mark of lent. He spoke about renewing our commitment to finish out lent. This got me thinking ...

So often even the smallest sacrifices can seem undaunting! My sister once told me that her family seems to crave hamburgers on Friday. It has become a joke in her family because of course they avoid meat on Friday but the ol' devil tries his best to distract them. Temptation comes in so many different tricky forms. Excessive worry is one, for example. How often have I prayed for an outcome and then worry excessively until the outcome is clear? I'm working on this one.

Something that has helped me to stay close to Christ, and to avoid temptation is to make a cross with my thumb and pointer finger. Now I'm not waving it in the air and showing everyone, but simply making it quietly as a reminder to myself.

This finger symbol has two parts to it. The cross is a sign of what God has done for me, and helps me to stay the course. The cross also looks like a 't,' which is the first letter in the word, Trust, as in, Jesus I Trust in You. I give this problem to you Jeus, and I TRUST you will handle it. Ah, the peace that has comes from doing this.

If we do falter, the best thing to do is to forgive ourselves, and ask forgiveness from God. Going to confession will give us the grace and humility we need to avoid near occasions of sin.

It is so important that we forgive ourselves. Otherwise unknowingly we could create a void between us and Christ. This void could fester and grow and before we know it we avoid God through our actions because of our guilt and shame. Avoid the temptation to wallow in guilt and come back running to Christ. He will always always ALWAYS be there with open arms.

Feast of St. Joseph

2009-03-19T14:59:00.002-04:00

We had a special Mass at our parish this morning. I belong to St. Joseph's Catholic Church, and we had 3 priests and a deacon saying mass. Afterwards, there was a celebration in the church hall. Julia and I were the only ones from my family ... she thoroughly enjoyed herself.

Memorare to St. Joseph

Remember, most pure spouse of Mary ever Virgin, my loving protector St. Joseph, that never has it been heard that anyone invoked your protection or besought your aid without being consoled. In this confidence I come before you; I fervently recommend myself to you. Despise not my prayer, foster father of the Redeemer, but graciously deign to hear it. Amen.

Blessed Are the Peacemakers

2009-03-18T11:16:00.003-04:00

It is often hard to find peace in this world. Regardless of where we are in life, we need to have peace, no matter how hard it may seem to obtain. As a Catholic we have so many spiritual weapons that help us to find that peace, and keep it.

Saying the Rosary daily will help us gain that much needed peace. Saying the Rosary does not make Our Blessed Mother love us more, but it makes our hearts open to "hear" Her better. This goes for going to daily mass. Of course Jesus loves us unconditionally, but when we go to mass, we "Hear" Him much clearer. He gives us that dose of peace we all crave and need.

Years ago I picked up a pamphlet at the back of the church titled, "Finding Inner Peace. The ABC's of Serenity."[1] I recently stumbled upon it again and have been reading it.

Here is a part of it I'd like to share. It is under the "B" section of the ABC's.

B2, Bloom where God has planted you.

Serenity springs up when we stop prolonging the winter of our discontent all year round. Great tranquility of mind and heart can be ours if we are content with the way God has arranged our lives. In the seed of contentment is hidden the rich harvest of serenity.

If we are always grumbling and groaning about our human lot, how serene can we expect to be? Our groaning can be exterior or merely interior; In either case it spoils our chance for personal peace and happiness.

God could have planted us elsewhere -- in an African village or an Indian slum. The fact is that he has placed us where he has placed us, and here he wants us to blossom, to bear fruit, to lead productive and happy lives.

Serenity comes to those with a vital faith in God's wisdom and providence. Strange beings that we are, traversing the earth in search of happiness, we all too easily forget that happiness is a state of mind. Diogenes was content with this tub, while for Alexander the whole world was too small.

St. Paul had learned to be content in whatever circumstances he found himself (Phil 4:11). He taught Timothy that we ought to be content if we have food and clothing (1 Tim 6:8). Imprisoned and in chains, Paul showed his contentment by praying and singing hymns to God at midnight (Acts 16:25).

Why did it take the Israelites so long to cross a desert that they could have covered in a few months or less? Because they were always grumbling about something. So they took one step forward and two steps backward, and that went on for 40 years! Most of them never did get to see their Promised Land.

There is promosed land of serenity for us in this world if we learn the secret of contentment with God's work in our lives.

THE EIGHT BEATITUDES OF JESUS

"Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are they who mourn,
for they shall be comforted.

Blessed are the meek,
for they shall inherit the earth.

Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they shall be satisfied.

Blessed are the merciful,
for they shall obtain mercy.

Blessed are the pure of heart,
for they shall see God.

Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they shall be called children of God.

Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
Gospel of St. Matthew 5:3-10

[1] to order a copy of this pamphlet call 1-800-325-9521. or go to www.liguori.org.

St. Patrick

2009-03-17T18:46:00.009-04:00

“Christ shield me this day: Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ on my right, Christ on my left, Christ when I lie down, Christ when I arise, Christ in the heart of every person who thinks of me, Christ in the eye that sees me, Christ in the ear that hears me” (from “The Breastplate of St. Patrick).

Ever hear of the leprechaun trap? Nor have I. I've heard of a rat trap & a money pit. I think you combine those and you have the leprechaun trap. kidding. I suppose a candy company came up with this one! Just one more thing for me to remember to do. I'm sounding a bit jaded ... LOL ... OK I love St. Patrick just like the rest of you lasses. When my husband became Catholic and was confirmed, he picked St. Patrick as his patron. Maybe we'll catch some wandering leprechauns next year... someone remind me.

Back to the kitchen where I can finish making the Irish Stew I planned on... sheesh... I could have sworn I had some stew meat in the freezer. That leprechaun trap will come in handy after all. So we are having the very traditional, but little known, Irish Leprechaun Stew... made with you-know-what, tastes just like chicken. Never really found a recipe for that one. So I sort of made it up. A few glasses of Guinness and it will taste Irish to any bloke.

My youngest girls dressed completely in green today all on their own. Julia woke me to get down her Easter dress from last year in the closet. She paired it with a Christmas velvet green blouse. The she insisted I put pony tails with green bands in her hair. She then found a pair of green summer slip ons that are usually worn with shorts or Capri's. A fashion plate to be sure!

I suppose we'll end the day sitting around the fire place reminiscing about our St. Patrick's day memories. Of course my engagement story will be retold. My kids never sicken of hearing this story. I do believe I've mentioned it several times on this blog. I'm sure you'll let me know if you sicken of it. Just type the word DRUNK in the search above and you will find the story.

I hope you all had a lovely day.

Nomads

2009-03-12T09:23:00.005-04:00

I'm reading, "Walking the Gobi: A 1,600 -mile Trek Across a Desert of Hope and Despair." What an exciting read! It is the true story of the Thayers. Helen, 63 and Bill , 74 trek across the Gobi dessert. Sometimes treking 25+ miles per day!!! Why you ask? Well frankly I said the same thing.

I didn't even pick this book. I am part of a book group and the book was picked for me. But as I read the book, and learned of the Nomads in the dessert, I realized that I would have never 'met' these wonderful people had Bill and Helen not shared this experience with me. Also, now this is deep, but it is somewhat metaphoric as we are all walking our Gobi's right now. Whether you are a person suffering from cancer, looking for a job, getting married, suffering a loss, going to school, or you may be a college student who is getting ready to graduate and start life. We are all walking our Gobi's.

Speaking of college students and Nomads. Now that was a smooth transition. Of course I have Nomads on the brain right now because I'm reading Helen's book. But I can't help but think of my own college age kids as Nomads. It is spring break and my home is their spring ger. LOL... then they will pack up when the winds change, or the break ends, and move to the north, south, east or west, and take up residence in a different ger until the winds change again.

OK, the coffee is doing overtime, and I need to get something in the crock pot. I usually have an easy dinner like pizza on Thursday, but I used it for Wednesday so time to face the music.

Have a lovely day, and remember, we are all walking our Gobi's and if Helen and Bill can do it, so can we! (I'm not even going to read over this, because I need to get MOVING across the desert or I'm going to shrivel up!)

BTW, get the book!

2009-02-25T17:28:00.001-05:00

Remember that you are dust unto dust you shall return...

A must read, more on purgatory...

2009-02-19T10:41:00.002-05:00

From time to time I follow Ask Sister Mary Martha's Blog, this entry is well written and explains a lot about purgatory, she is funny and easy to read: Boo!

Also here are some great links:

Plenary Indulgences

Excellent explanation here: http://www.catholic.org/clife/prayers/indulgc.php

2009-02-17T09:42:00.003-05:00

Genesis 2:16-17
The LORD God gave man this order: "You are free to eat from any of the trees of the garden except the tree of knowledge of good and bad. From that tree you shall not eat; the moment you eat from it you are surely doomed to die."

I had a dream last night. We (on earth) live for the garden of Eden (heaven) and we are free... free to do good and not bad, least we die. We are given so much yet we yearn for more. We want to be god-like. By controlling lives... abortion... by healing the sick by unethical, 'bad' ways, like embryonic stem cell research. We are doomed to die if we continue to eat from this 'tree of knowledge.' We spend so much time worrying about the earths resources, not trusting in God's mercy and love.

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble, Therefore we will not fear though the earth should change, Though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult. "Be still, and know that I am God. I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth!" The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge. Psalm 46 1-3, 10-11

Our time would be better spend reading scripture, praying for the unborn, serving God's lowly. Instead we worry needlessly. Kind of like worshiping the god of worry, and fear.

I see FOCA as a large branch on that tree of knowledge. It is a kind of crossroad. I ask myself, would GOD be for FOCA? Would he be for abortion? That branch surely leads to bad, hell.

Then there are the godless, those who have chosen to be their own god. It is a choice, because we are born with an innate love of God. The passage escapes me at the moment but maybe someone can post it.

It seems strange to me that someone would choose atheism... I mean just being practical and saying "what if" ... what if there really is a God, and I have deliberately 'chosen' to ignore Him. Such a risk to take, when so much to the contrary exists. Do these atheists chose this because they are lazy, egotistical, ignorant? It would be more difficult to prove that there was no God than the other. Have you seen EXPELLED: No Intelligence Allowed?

For me I'll stay away from the serpent, I will arm myself with weapons, and protection like God's Holy Word, my Rosary, and prayer without ceasing. I will follow His commands and I will not be so arrogant as to put myself before God. I will not abandon His church or go church shopping to suit myself, but instead I will Thank God, and obey the Church he has given me. I will not follow man and imagine that man could improve on the Rock that Christ built this church on.

Proverbs 14
1The wise woman builds her house,But the foolish tears it down with her own hands.

Born Alive

2009-02-13T12:46:00.002-05:00

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Lawsuit Filed for Baby Born Alive at Abortion Clinic then Killed and Hidden from Police

2009-02-05T20:05:00.000-05:00

MIAMI, Fla., January 30, 2009 (LifeSiteNews.com) - On Tuesday, January 27, 2009, suit was filed by the Thomas More Society in Miami on behalf of Shanice Denise Osbourne, an infant girl who was allegedly murdered in July, 2006.

Click here to read the full article: Lawsuit Filed for Baby Born Alive at Abortion Clinic then Killed and Hidden from Police

brrrrrrrrrr it's cold

2009-01-13T13:50:00.004-05:00

Hoping for snow tonight... though there is nothing in the forecast, I'm a sucker for a good snow. Currently it is 42 outside but feels much colder. Not sure why... the heat has been running non-stop.

Here's a few jokes to warm you up... I got these at Christmas and kept them for a ~~rainy~~, snowy day. Since that may never happen, I'll share now:

2009-01-01T23:44:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-07T23:40:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas

Our Lady of Medjugorje

2008-10-25T14:31:00.003-04:00

Message of October 25, 2008

“Dear children! In a special way I call you all to pray for my intentions so that, through your prayers, you may stop Satan's plan over this world, which is further from God every day, and which puts itself in the place of God and is destroying everything that is beautiful and good in the souls of each of you. Therefore, little children, arm yourselves with prayer and fasting so that you may be conscious of how much God loves you and may carry out God's will. Thank you for having responded to my call.”

For more information please visit:
Our Lady of Medjugorje

Voters Guide for Serious Catholics, and Serious Christians

2008-10-25T13:47:00.001-04:00

Fast for Hope

2008-10-16T18:10:00.002-04:00

“To claim the right to abortion, infanticide and euthanasia, and to recognize that right in law, means to attribute to human freedom a perverse and evil significance: that of an absolute power over others and against others. This is the death of true freedom…” Pope John Paul II, Evangelium Vitae 20

AMEN,AMEN,AMEN!

Please join others around the country who are fasting for the best outcome of the election of president. It is the least we can do for those who are murdered daily, hourly.

Mark your calendars for Nov 3rd and 4th, National days of fasting for the outcome of the election. Visit Fast For Hope for more details.

CATHOLIC VOTE

2008-10-14T18:58:00.002-04:00

By God we must do something! 4,000 abortions A DAY. aye yi yi ... Catholics have a chance to do something truly great. Lets join with our fellow Christians, practicing Jews, and all those who want this country to be great. United we stand, divided we fall... Let's pray that this nation, under God, can end the senseless murdering of the most defenseless ... peace!

Miss the college girls...

2008-09-10T22:33:00.007-04:00

I'm in a house full of testosterone poisoned men, boys, teens whatever you want to call it.

I sent one out to the garage to get "the butter in the blue box in the fridge" and he didn't show up for hours, I found him wandering around the upstairs looking for a blue box. I should be grateful he still knows his colors. Sometimes I wonder if he'll make it home from the bus.

Then I watched my other son walk past a glass of tea on the counter and I said, "Hey can you hand me my tea on the counter?"

He walked out the front door. I waited and he walked back in. I was determined. I thought a mental picture would help so I described it. "I want my glass of tea, in the green glass, on the counter right next to your hand."

He walked upstairs. I shook my head and went and got the tea myself. Later he came downstairs and told me he looked all over my room but could not find the phone.

Last night I sat watching the 3 of them discuss Math. How does one discuss Math you ask? Or maybe you are one of those who discusses Math. I couldn't repeat what they said because frankly I was trying to hear Greta on fox and to me it was a lotta blah blah blah yadda yadda yadda. But it struck me as odd that the lot of them could sit and discuss Math for hours, memorize formulas yet forget what they went to the grocery store for. Somehow it doesn't add up.

Anywho... I love the whole crew, but lets face it some girl talk ... from grown girls that is ... I've got enough underage talk from the younger two girls... some real girl talk or someone to say "this is delicious Mom!" I miss my chocolate cohorts, and my movie buddies. What is a chic flick without chicks!

Can't wait for Thanksgiving...

Happy Birthday Blessed Mother!

2008-09-08T23:31:00.006-04:00

We love to celebrate Our Blessed Mothers Birthday... Mary was a bit excited and just would not settle down. Imagine that. I know Our Blessed mother understands... enjoy.

Energized...

2008-09-05T14:05:00.004-04:00

I'm finally energized by the upcoming elections! I have even allowed my very political son to put a McCain bumper sticker on my car. This was after he put a license plate frame that says "choose life, your mother did." I can't wait to replace it with the McCain/Palin sticker. Wow! I'm so Psyched!

Palin's speech was more than I expected. I was thrilled she brought her entire family with her. One part of the speech that inspired me greatly was this:

"Politics isn't just a game of clashing parties and competing interests. The right reason is to challenge the status quo, to serve the common good, and to leave this nation better than we found it. No one expects us to agree on everything. But we are expected to govern with integrity, good will, clear convictions, and ... a servant's heart.

I pledge to all Americans that I will carry myself in this spirit as vice president of the United States."

This is what we all dream of. That it is not about personal goals, or power, or even politics. It's about lifting up the lowly and promoting the good of all. Like the unborn, who are defenseless. This is what I dream of in a leader.

It reminds me of John F. Kennedy's famous quote, "And so, my fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country."

I of course as a mother have often used this line myself, with a little twist, it is quite effective... at least I think so, of course all the eyes rolling around may have a different opinion.

"Ask not what you can do for your father ask what you can do for your mother"

"Ask not what you can do for yourself, but what you can do for your mother"

"Ask not what you can do in your bedroom, but rather vacuum the whole downstairs, thank-you-very-much, go ahead and roll those eyes, we need more eyes to heaven, and I'll wipe that smurk off your mouth with a 500 word essay on how I can be more cooperative in my home and it will be titled ... ask NOT anything, just DO AS YOU'RE TOLD" and you can quote me. PHEW.

I digress.

John McCain also gave me moments to pause and even brought tears to my eyes...

Just pasting this part brings tears to my eyes,

"But after I turned down their offer, they worked me over harder than they ever had before, for a long time, and they broke me.

When they brought me back to my cell, I was hurt and ashamed, and I didn’t know how I could face my fellow prisoners. The good man in the cell next door to me, my friend, Bob Craner, saved me."

WOW! That is the kind of man I want to represent me. Humbled, I am.

Here is a great article about McCain's speech found here at Creative Minority, following is a quote from the article titled "... and they broke me," see below:

'it was an amazing line because some might think it makes him smaller, but it actually makes him seem larger. The way he talked about being broken and built back up as a different man -a better man- was illuminating. The idea that suffering can bless us in unforeseen ways was a suprising turn in a political speech. I trust John McCain more today than I did yesterday. By admitting his limitations he seemed more...presidential.'

Any Catholic reading this knows that we are programed, raised, embodied with this idea that suffering can bless us, can be the one thing that saves us from ourselves. It makes us humble, and it teaches us forgiveness, and so much more. I have often thought that when we suffer, it is God reaching out to us, as a loving father, to teach us to be the best we can be. That is why often you will hear someone who has suffered a greatly say that they would not change a thing. Moments they keep in their hearts where they were forced to cry out and Jesus answered them. Confirmation of our faith. And as John McCain spoke, can make us better people. And it is ultimately our entire faith. Christ suffered for us, beat down, yet raised up for us... to better all our lives. So much good can come from suffering.

Well I'd better run or my hair will fall out from the hair color that is dripping down my neck... yikes... 20 minutes over time...

25th Anniversary....

2008-07-24T20:40:00.006-04:00

About 25 years ago to the day, July 16, 1983, my dh and I went out on our first date. A blind date I might add. We went to see the movie, War Games. I picked the movie because I figured if the date bombed then at least I'd get to see a film I wanted. As it turns out it did not bomb -- the movie OR the date ... and I met a gem.

It all started at the Jolly Lobster. A local dance place. I went with a few girlfriends -- Karen, Juanita, and Connie. We met a man, Ira, who fell for Connie, and when he got home he told his roommate, Rick, about Moi. They called me up a few days later and we set up a date.

I was not interested at first, but then my mother told me I should go. I was casually dating someone, but I I took her advice anyway and the rest is History.

Our Local movie theater is playing the movie this evening.
Too bad we couldn't go.

Oh and Connie and Ira married a month after us, in 1985.

Mary's New Haircut

2008-07-15T20:20:00.004-04:00

She will be sending her braid to Locks of Love.

By the way, thanks Colana for lovely postcard for Mary's scrapbook! Check out Colana's lovely site: http://www.igloomom.blogspot.com/

May Crowning '08

2008-05-19T12:00:00.003-04:00

We had our annual May Crowning on Saturday. It was a perfect day. I will post some pictures when they become available.

Feast Day, Our Lady of Fatima

2008-05-13T10:16:00.004-04:00

Prayer to Our Lady of Fatima

Dearest Mother, Queen of the Holy Rosary, who came to Fatima to reveal to all mankind the Divine plan for true Christian peace, of prayer, penance, and consecration, grant an abundance of grace, strength, and guidance to the members of Thy Fatima Crusade, here present and throughout the world. Inspire us to great zeal, oh great Mediatrix of All Graces, that we may be effective instruments in spreading devotion to Thy Rosary; that we may be faithful in wearing Thy scapular; that we may inspire our brothers in Christ to a life of sacrifice, penance, and modesty, and finally, that we may help to bring about that wonderful day when all men, through consecration to Thy Immaculate Heart, shall be one in Christ. Amen.

Past posts: Fatima

Rainy days and thrusdays always get me down...

2008-05-08T12:13:00.008-04:00

Not really. Just having one of those days. It started last night before bed, while brushing my teeth my mouth went numb. I couldn't taste mint and then the numbness kicked in. I turned on the bathroom light to see that I was brushing my teeth with ... ahem... athletes foot cream. After much spitting and yes a few 'choice' words I was able to recoup from that. ewwwwwwww

Then this morning while dropping kids off at school I accidentally had put concealer on my lips rather than lipstick. Did my 17 year old son in the front seat even notice??????

"Sign this mom."

"OK son have a nice day."

Lalalalala all the way back home where in the driveway I caught my reflection in the mirror. YIKES. I had this pasty beige goo all over. Looked like a crazy woman.

NOTE TO SELF: do not brush teeth in the dark. Remove concealer from purse. Get sons vision checked.

Where have all the gentlemen gone...

2008-04-05T14:11:00.002-04:00

I was headed to a check out line at the grocery store and a man walked quickly around me and grabbed my lane. I was in a hurry because someone needed the potty. So I saw what looked like a shorter lane and I headed that direction. However, the 50ish year old man who had just bumped me then hops out of my lane and goes to the one I'm headed too, so I back up and stay in my lane.

While I waited my turn, I wondered to myself where had all the gentlemen gone. I'm old enough to remember a time when men stood up when a lady entered the room, or they quickly walked ahead to open a door.

Sadly the feminists told us that when men did this they were making us feel inadequate, like we couldn't open our own doors. I see it as something different, I think it taught us that women are special and need to have special respect.

Now don't get me wrong, I don't want to throw the baby out with the bathwater. I'm glad I can vote, I'm glad that I can choose to stay home and raise my children, but somewhere along the line we lost something that was wonderful. I couldn't help but wonder to myself if any of my four daughters would see a time when women are highly regarded.

Well fortunately for me I'm married to one such gentleman and I was raised by one, not to mention some very gentlemanly brothers... so all is not lost. I hope to raise similar young men.

NOTE: I was checked out, groceries loaded in my car before the not-so-gentleman was even out of the store. Sweet.

College funding

2008-03-30T16:50:00.003-04:00

I was recently asked, "How do you afford college?" Well the question is rather personal in my opinion but I wanted to respond, "what do you mean? I already went to college and I paid for it already." But I don't think the person knew they were being offensive so I just responded with "Oh I know college is so expensive." Then I continued with small talk and left on a happy note.

The truth is I do not feel that it is my duty as a parent to pay for my children's college education. I am not alone in my thinking either. If you search the web, or ask a certified financial adviser, they would agree that it is not a good idea to use your future savings, retirement, 401k's etc to pay for college. Give the gift of a good retirement to your children instead. They will be young enough to work and pay back their loans and not have the worry of carrying your financial needs as well.

Another very good friend of mine confided that she not only pays for her child's education but is also sending $1000 a month to her 23 year old for living expenses. Her 'child' is doing well but was not thrifty with her class scheduling and must take a few more classes before graduating. By 'thrifty' I mean that when YOU are funding YOUR own education you make sure that you are on the right track and you don't sign up for the wrong classes accidentally.

Another friend is in the same boat. She has already decided that her youngest will not be going to college, it just is too expensive for them. I asked her why not stop paying for the oldest now and allow him to pay his last 2 years, to which she replied, we tried that option but he said he just won't go. OK, so there you go problem solved. He can get a job and let the youngest go to college.

I love my children, and sure I do not want them burdened with extra loans, so I will do what I can but I will not forfeit my retirement, nor will I ring up crazy bills that weigh the family down. Rather I will help when I can, educate them on getting scholarships, and leave the rest up to them.

My St. Patrick's Day Memory...

2008-03-17T16:01:00.005-04:00

~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~

Please pray this beautiful prayer with me from the Breastplate of St. Patrick:

“Christ shield me this day: Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ on my right, Christ on my left, Christ when I lie down, Christ when I arise, Christ in the heart of every person who thinks of me, Christ in the eye that sees me, Christ in the ear that hears me”
~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~

Funny true story to share with you ...

It was 24 years ago today that I got drunk, my first and only time,

Oh yeah and I was engaged. tee hee hee

I was engaged on March 17, 1984. Rick took me to Three Ships Inn, a beautiful restaurant, run by a family in an old home that was renovated into a restaurant. He ordered a bottle of wine and they kept filling my glass at every course.

Finally I had to use the bathroom, and when I stood up the room was spinning. I had to lean on chairs to get to the bathroom. My feet felt like that were made of lead.

Aye yi yi,

I have no clue how I made it to and from the bathroom, I'm sure it was obvious, because I remember my hands feeling like lead as I grabbed chairs to steady myself to the bathroom.

Later, I told Rick he did not have to get me drunk, chances are I would have said yes.

Later that same year, Rick decided to become Catholic, and chose St. Patrick as his Confirmation name.

Mayhem

2008-02-22T11:21:00.011-05:00

If you're keeping up with my comings and goings you may be interested... while I was away, mayhem ensued. Well not exactly. Well truthfully, the kids were fed, Rick nursed Mary back to complete health after a bout with the ugly flu. He even did all the laundry, as I have the 10 foot laundry mountain in my room to prove it, although the mountain is dwindling as everyone has been steadily climbing it.
(Left picture: Julia standing in front of Laundry Mountain)

No to be truly fair, Rick did an outstanding job. He is a totally hands on Dad. Thanks sweetheart. (see rick --->)

No wherein lies the problem is with the 360. I finished breakfast, and it is a cloudy, rainy day. YES I do have a mountain of laundry calling my name, but I thought I'd pop in my new xbox game, Lost Odyssey. (A valentine gift from my sweetie) Julia was playing a matching game on my palm and I thought I could steal a few minutes of selfish game play.

I turn on the 360 and the ring of light was completely red and blinking. Fortunately it was not the death ring of light shown on the left. If you see the ring of death light you will need to call for the resuscitator... Microsoft. No I had the ring of the A/V cable was missing. Yep missing. (note, I did not have to look up the ring, pretty cool eh?)

So I searched the house, found it in the boys room. duh. Hooked it up and sat down. The controller was out of juice. sheesh. Could they not keep it charging? I then try to locate the charger. missing. sheesh. I go back to the dungeon. The boys room. I search and search and can not find the charger cable. Give me a break. As I continue to search, I find a nativity angel, Mary and Julia's kids bop CD, a few lego's ouch, a moldy glass of ????, some sunflower seeds, various dirty clothes, yanked from the mountain sometime this week and then ahhhhhhh... I find a fully charged spare controller! woo woo... I'm in business. I even take a moment to congratulate myself on my ability as a mother or should I say mutha, to be able to reignite the 360. I'm in business.

"MOMMY. Can you fix the TV?" screams Julia from the game room.

"Fix it?!?!" I ask. It's time for Dora.

Well to my shock and great surprise, yeah right, there is no cable line, and no wires what-so-ever on the back of the TV. I'm sure I'll fix it but now I can forget game play... maybe someone can tell me what lost odyssey is about.

Back from the funeral

2008-02-20T14:40:00.004-05:00

My trip to the funeral was just great. Thanks for the prayers. (on the right is a picture of me and my Auntie Lenora)

It was an emotional trip to say the least. Not all sad, I might add. Many many joyful moments. I was able to catch up with my relatives, that to me was worth all the effort to go.

Before I left on my trip I had been looking into the meaning of "joy." You know just like my personal study of the meaning of forgiveness. I asked God to help me discover real pure joy. I feel like God answered my questions through my Uncle Curly. (seen below with my auntie Lenora ... They loved to square dance.)

He was such a wonderful person. He always made me feel like I was the single most important person in the room. When I was a pre-teen going through a tough time at school where I was ostracized, and excluded for a time. Nothing different from other pre-teens, but during my summer break we traveled to Massachusetts and my Uncle welcomed me into there home with his purely joyful way. "JUDY JUDY JUDY, how are you? Good to see you." Followed up with a beautiful full bodied loving hug. I had not thought of that time in my life until my trip back from the funeral. I felt so wanted and loved. Unconditional. Someone to me, that defined "cool" loved me for who I was. (Of course my Mother and Father gave this to me, but we all know that they don't count. LOL)

So many spoke of these same feelings that it would be impossible to summarize his joyful way in this small blog. He touched so many. But I want to share a couple of key things...

He was 6 when his father drowned. He was the oldest and it was not long after that that he had to quit school and earn money for the family. Due to poor nutrition, he became crippled and had to be taken around in a wagon. I'm told he still worked to earn money, even in a crippled state. Then one day he went to the St. Ann shrine and crawled on his crippled legs to the shrine and asked for a healing. He walked away, healed.

I heard it said that the reason he was most likely chosen for a healing by Our Lord, through our Lords Grandmother, St. Ann, was because he asked for the healing not for his own selfish ways, but so that he could care for his family better.

Sigh.

I hope that I have shared enough about Herve "Curly" Robillard with you so that you can feel some of the joy that we were blessed to feel for so many years.

EEEEEEEE URP

2008-02-15T12:09:00.002-05:00

Curly Robillard

(Feb 13, 2008)

Survived by my Aunt, Lenora, and their wonderful children, Corrine, Bobby & Wayne, and their families.

I wrote a letter to my Auntie a few months ago, sharing with her the joy that she and my uncle brought to my life. I will share parts of that letter here, so other may know the joy he brought to our lives. Please enjoy these random memories...

I was at my Moms this week and she and I were laughing over something Uncle Curly used to say, one that gave us all a chuckle, “I wonder what the poor people are doing?” Anyone who knows Uncle Curly would know that no harm was meant by these jokes. He cared for all people. Not only that but he was poor once in his life so he very much could relate to this. I have been known to share these same Curly-isms with my own family. At a young age his father died and he had to take care of the family working while other kids went to school. Never bitter, always grateful for work to do.

I was very young the first time I went to Mass with my Aunt and Uncle. It was there that I was struck with both of your quiet, steady devotion to God. I had never seen that side of you. I felt privileged to be there with you. It meant a lot to me as a child to share the sign of peace with you both.

I recall a Sunday afternoon at their home. We were all sitting around watching a game on TV while the ladies were cooking in the kitchen. I was probably not more than 12 years old. Wayne came out of his bedroom and sat down with the kids and said “Watch This.” As if on cue, Uncle Curly got out of his recliner and marched down the hallway to Wayne’s room … which incidentally had a large stereo blaring music down the hallway. He hit a few knobs, said a few things under his breath. We heard the music go up, the radio stations changed, the base went up and down but still he was unable to turn it off. We were all laughing hysterically until finally Wayne went to his rescue. I, who thought I was too savy with electronics, never thought the day would come when I would reenact this! Ha ha on me! I have reached that point. I remember wanting to play some music while all the kids were at school. Just something peppy to listen to while I cleaned the kitchen. Warren’s computer/stereo setup is so wicked I was unable to even get sound out of the speakers. I wanted to throw the #!@$ speakers out the door! Just then I recalled Uncle Curly and laughed out loud to myself.

There was another opportunity for Wayne to get a laugh out of us yet again. It happened to be at a somber moment where everyone needed a laugh. After Meme’s wake was over, Wayne came over to us and said, “hey I’ll bet my father is outside cleaning the windows in my car.” Sure enough we walked outside and there was Uncle Curly, Windex in hand, paper towels in the other and was cleaning Wayne’s car. It was moments like these where you could see just how much Uncle Curly loves his kids. He said he wanted the back window to be clear for safety reasons. What a simple but sweet way to demonstrate your love.

I recall another funny story. We all went to Friendly’s after dinner for dessert, and Michelle, then just a toddler, grabbed Corrine’s wig and threw it!? I don’t think I have ever laughed so hard. It was there that my brother and sisters and I became quite impressed with Uncle Curly’s ability to eat 3 banana splits! I long for those days again.

Both my Aunt and Uncle define generosity. I remember when we were leaving Massachusetts and returning to Virginia. We stopped by your house on our way out of town and you both came out with arm loads of chips and snacks for the road. Our father explained to us young children that you were giving away your profits from the chip delivery job he used to have.

Another time after I was married, Rick we came to visit them and they treated us to dinner at a restaurant. I was all set to order the Tuna sandwich and they talked me into a fancy dinner. When the waitress came they ordered the dinners for Rick and I and then split a tuna sandwich! When the check came you picked it up and would not let us leave even a dime. There are countless examples of their generosity… too many to write. Their example has been something for us all to live up to.

I also appreciated the way the entire family opened their arms to my husband, Rick and included him as part of the family. I love you all for that. This has meant a lot to me. The whole family, Corrine, Eddie, Bob, Paulette, Wayne and all the grand kids have always welcomed us into their homes. What an example you have set. Awesome family!

All good memories implanted in my heart. I love the way they cared about each other. I have often looked to their example in my own marriage. I liked the way my Auntie took the humorous approach rather than the ‘poor me’ approach. Their marriage has been a great example to all of us.

Year’s ago my mother told me that they pray devotedly for us. She said Uncle Curly shared this with her. I was so impressed that at that moment I too added you guys to my prayers in a more consistent manner. I had always prayed for you, but now I was determined to live by your example so please know that I have never stopped thinking about either of you. I have added you to my Rosary intentions and my nightly prayers. I am sorry that you are both suffering right now. In my eyes you are hero’s. Never wavering in your faith … never wavering in your love for each other … never boasting … just steady, quiet and kind … always. I love you both for this.

I’ll end with EEEEEEEE-URP. Another great memory of both of you.

Sad Day

2008-02-13T13:05:00.003-05:00

Please pray for the repose of the soul of my Uncle Curly. We have lost a great man today, but heaven has gained another Saint. Pray for his lovely wife, my Auntie Lenora. Thanks everyone.

2007-12-19T10:40:00.000-05:00

Julia had a b-day yesterday... it was just 4 years ago that you all were praying for me when they took her 7 weeks early and were amazed that there was nothing wrong with her... no signs of prematurity except for the size and a few minor details. We were surely blessed. It was in the OR that I turned to my husband and said, "Not Julia Rose" .... "But Julia Noel" ... 7 days before Christmas and she looked like the best present I had ever seen. He spread the news that Julia Rose was born and we received cards saying just that, he thought it was the medication speaking, I later set him straight.

Julia of course has been such a joy to all of us... being the sixth child has its drawbacks and its rewards. She is doted on by all 5 of the older kids, even her sister Mary just 2 years older. She cries for everything and gets nothing from Mommy when she does this but gets every thing she wants from everyone else... this is a battle I just can't seem to win, but I'm trying.

She gives us a real run for our money... this summer we got all the way to our vacation destination spot and when I was undressing her for bed, I noticed that she had 2 different sandals on... yes a Dora and a hello kitty, she wanted both but was told that she could pick one. Both were pathetic hand-me-downs, all dirty, which is why ONE was all she could take. Somehow that was the ONLY pair of shoes besides some care bear slippers, also hand-me-downs.

She often snaps me into reality. Just when I think that 'hey six is easy, and I can have a clean house, keep the laundry up, and stay organized' ... there is always Julia to ground me. Recently she helped me clean all the crayon off the walls throughout the house with the magic eraser. And yes I do mean every room in the house. Full walls to small happy faces. All by her. We discussed how this was dreadful and that mommy did not want to go through this again. A few days later I was in the game room and I looked at the wall and my old age eyes could barely make it out but as I walked closer to the wall I realized the entire wall was covered in "Julia style art" ... "No it was Nicholas mommy" said she, "but I'll clean it with the wipe thing mommy." I knew she was having too much fun... It's been a month and it is still there. Imagine that.

And hey well, we all remember the hair cuts she has given and taken... someone with one child said to me, 'why not put the scissors away?' I just smiled and said 'OK.' The scissors in this house are like rabbits, they multiply like crazy, and yet when you want to get a pair to use you can't find any.

She makes us all laugh too... just this morning while getting ready for the day, the normal routine is to send her for a pair of clean undies in my room that I keep in a stack so I KNOW when we are getting low. (One of those things that large families must do) Anyway, I noticed that the pair she was putting on looked oddly like the pair she put on the day before... hmmm... and even the pair from the day before that day... so I said to her. "Julia is that a new pair?"

Julia: "I love my little pony mommy." (also hand-me-downs)

ME: "But is it a NEW PAIR?"

Julia:"I love ponies mommy"

ME: Smell it Julia.

Julia: Ewwwwwwwww this underwear smells yucky mommy.

We love our Julia Noel.

2007-11-19T12:30:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday! My #5 is six today...
(silly play makeup too!)

2007-11-14T10:53:00.000-05:00

It rained!!!

Pray for Rain, and Thanks for the comments and emails...

2007-11-13T23:59:00.000-05:00

... especially regarding the Incorruptibles.

I've been reading the book, The Incoruptables. I'm fascinated and at the same time weary, from reading about the various ways the incorruptibles were destroyed from invasions, along with the reformation, and more. God is so good at giving us brilliant signs of His existence and along with this comes great expectations ... choices. I am certain the devil is behind it. It is just yet one of the evil ones many tools that drove Christians apart. Pray for a remedy.

Speaking of prayer, please pray for an end to the drought for Atlanta: The Associated Press: Ga. Governor Prays for Rain at Capitol, so many would love to see this fail and take it as a sign that God does not exist. Fortunately for those blessed with great faith, this would never enter their minds. Pray Pray Pray.

Call upon God's favored ones, The Saints to pray with us! Here are some of the Patrons of Drought:
Patron saint of drought relief
Catald
Eulalia of Barcelona
Godeberta
Herbert
Hermengild
Solange
Swithun
Trophimus of Arles

From: Prayer for end to drought

‘LORD GOD, CREATOR OF THE WORLD WITH ALL ITS SEASONS, WE ASK THAT YOU WOULD HEAR OUR URGENT PRAYER FOR LIFE-GIVING RAINS FOR OUR COUNTRY. AMEN’.”

Incorruptibles, Saints that defy decomposition

2007-10-17T22:35:00.000-04:00

This has always fascinated me. I love miracles, OK who doesn't. I LOVE to read about the lives of Saints. I remember as a child being shown movies at school about how there are some Saints bodies that did not decompose after they died. I revisited this phenomenon... OK, MIRACLE, this evening while I was searching for relics ... specifically the relic of St. John Neumann.

The reason I am looking for a relic of St. John Neumann is because my brother Edward was healed of Crohns disease many years ago through St. John Neumann. I will ask him to blog about it. But the short version is that during a special mass that was said just for him, he was blessed with the relic of St. John Neumann. His disease disappeared instantly. God is good.

And now ... Warren's friend has crohns disease. Poor kid. I spoke with her briefly tonight and I could tell she was holding back tears, trying to be brave. She is very sick right now. She just had surgery and they expect her to be in the hospital for 3 more weeks.

My Uncle Curly was also healed. I do not know all the details but he was a child and had a crippling disease in his legs, and he was healed at St. Anne's Shrine in MA. It is a beautiful church.

I just love miracles. God is good. Thank you for the Saints.

So back to the incorruptibles.

I was not aware that St. John Neumann was one of the Saints that did not decay.

From this website: http://www.overcomeproblems.com/incorruptables.htm

Saint John Neumann - Died in 1860 in Philadelphia at age 48. His body was later found incorrupt. He was the first American Bishop to be canonized a Saint. His remains are on display in a glass enclosed altar in the lower church of St. Peter the Apostle at 5th and Girard Streets in the Northern Liberties section of Philadelphia.

This website explains it best, not to mention that there are many pictures of some of the incorruptibles: http://www.overcomeproblems.com/incorruptables.htm

Here is another saint everyone knows,

Saint Bernadette Soubirous - St. Bernadette was the original visionary at Lourdes, France and died in 1879 in Nevers, France. Her body was exhumed 30 years later in 1909 and was discovered completely incorrupt and free of odor. The body was again exhumed a second time ten years later in 1919 and was still incorrupt. Her body is still on display in the Chapel of St. Bernadette in Nevers, France to this day. See photos below.
I love the movie made about her life ... it is a MUST see. It is called The Song of Bernadette.

Well you'll be happy to know that all my searching was not in vain. We found a website that sells precious medals that are touched with relics of Saints. However, please note that a relic is not necessary for a healing. One can still get a healing through a Saint regardless of whether or not they were touched by a relic. I felt that if Warren would give her the medal she would know that we are thinking about her and praying for her. Thanks. I would give you her name, but I don't have permission to do that so I'll just ask that you pray for Warren's friend. Peace, Judy

Courageous Converts

2007-10-15T15:10:00.000-04:00

I read recently read about an Episcopal Priest who converted to Catholicism. He brought many of his paritioners with him. see here: Diocese of Scranton could have first married Roman Catholic priest
(Pictured left, Fr. Eric Bergman's ordination. http://www.stthomasmoresociety.org/)
Then there is the Scott Hahn story, which by now most of you know about. But if not he is the presbyterian minister who converted, read his story here: The Scott Hahn Conversion Story.
I read his story, Rome Sweet Home, and continue to pass it to others when I can. It is a great story for all Catholics to read. Though Scott Hahn is a very educated man and can certainly speak way above MY comprehension, he writes from the heart in this story about his conversion. One can only imagine. His whole life was centered around his job as a presbyterian minister. He had a wife and children to consider. It was their livelihood. Not to mention a flock of people that followed him. His wife happened to be from a family of presbyterian ministers and yet he abandoned all his wants and followed Gods call. A must read for everyone. For Catholics it is a great refresher in how privileged we are, and for non-Catholics it is a great explanation of what we're all about. I came upon this lovely review of the book at Amazon,

 Pray before you read this book! What a  journey!, April 22, 2003 

   By  Terry Fenwick (Half Moon Bay, CA) - See  all my reviews

My husband and I are 76 and 70 and have been strong "Bible" Christian believers and teachers. For the last 33 years we have been very active in Church and in the best Protestant Christian Bible Studies in national and international classes. We are becoming Catholic with NO RESERVATIONS! Something we never thought could or would happen to us. This book will open your mind to TRUTHS you have never seen before. My beautiful Christian husband read this book non-stop, came in the room, closed the book, put it down beside me, looked at me with his eyes brimming with tears and said, "They are right!" Simple as that. I give this book to others but I tell them, "Pray because it will change your life!" You next need your Bible, Keatings books, and a Catechism. Get ready for a new but very exciting and blessed life. You will fall in love with Jesus all over again. The Catholic Church will become your Rome Sweet Home! See you in heaven. Terry

And today I came upon this by accident, Pastor and Flock Convert to Catholicism. Here is a brief description from that site:

When Pentecostal minister Alex Jones came into the Church this past Easter he was not alone. He brought much of his congregation in with him.

When Detroit-born Alex Jones became a Pentecostal minister in 1972, there was little question among those who knew him that he was answering God's call to preach.

Now, many of his friends and family have dismissed the 59-year-old pastor as an apostate for embracing the Catholic faith, closing the nondenominational church he organized in 1982, and taking part of his congregation with him.

At this year's April 14 Easter Vigil, Jones, his wife, Donna, and 62 other former members of Detroit's Maranatha Church, was received into the Catholic Church at St. Suzanne's Parish. For Jones, becoming a Catholic will mark the end of a journey that began with the planting of a seed by Catholic apologist and Register columnist Karl Keating. It also will mean the beginning of a new way of life.

WHAT A STORY!!!! This is why I call these folks "Courageous!"

Hebrews 3:15, If today you hear HIS voice, harden not your hearts.

Oh btw, we have 3 converts in our family.
My husband is one of them.

Apparition of 13 October 1917, Miracle of the Sun

2007-10-13T23:49:00.000-04:00

Ninetieth Anniversary of the Miracle of the Sun in Fatima

Here is a description from Lucia's memoirs:
After our Lady had disappeared into the immense distance of the firmament, we beheld St. Joseph with the Child Jesus and Our Lady robed in white with a blue mantle, beside the sun. St. Joseph and the Child Jesus seemed to bless the world, for they traced the Sign of the Cross with their hands. When, a little later, this apparition disappeared, I saw Our Lord and Our lady; it seemed to me to that it was Our Lady of Sorrows (Dolors). Our Lord appeared to bless the world in the same manner as St. Joseph had done. This apparition also vanished, and I saw Our Lady once more, this time resembling Our Lady of Carmel. [Only Lucia would see the later, presaging her entrance into Carmel some years later.]

Please offer a rosary today for the conversion of sinners, for the poor souls in purgatory and for the offenses committed against Our Blessed Mother.

My God, I believe, I adore, I trust and I love Thee.
I beg pardon for those who do not believe,
do not adore, do not trust Thee, and do not love Thee. Amen.

Beatitudes

2007-10-10T12:26:00.000-04:00

Speaking from the heart here. A bit frustrated. Both my college kids are in public colleges. Sadly, both deal daily with persecutors of the faith. They seem to hate Catholics. They are sometimes proud of their Catholic background, yet they speak so disrespectfully of the teachings of the church. Don't get me wrong, these professors are non-Catholic as well. They are male & female, old and young.

It seems a bit like building your house on sand (Matthew 7:15-29) to base ones principles on the condemnation of another's. I have never been in a Mass where we were taught to hate another. Whether it be about religion, politics, and anything else in between. So I find it hard that these professors waste good time and money polluting the airways.

I am not worried about my college kids. They are able to defend the faith when they deem in necessary. I am concerned about those who do not know Christ, that they will be misled.

I'll close with the Beatitudes found in Matthew, they can help us all cope at times such as these.

The Beatitudes

Blessed are the poor in spirit; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are the meek; for they shall posses the land.
Blessed are they who mourn; for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after justice; for they shall have their fill.
Blessed are the merciful; for they shall obtain mercy.
Blessed are the clean of heart; for they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers; for they shall be called children of God.
Blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Another "Made in China" Toy Recall

2007-10-09T16:34:00.000-04:00

St. Faustina, Oct. 5, 2007

2007-10-05T23:46:00.000-04:00

I have experienced such joy since my introduction to St. Faustina. She is such a strong messenger for Christ and His Divine Mercy. I try to share her with everyone.

If you want to read more about personal experiences with the Divine Mercy of Christ, go here: My Wonderful Experience, and here:
Another Divine Mercy Experience in Our Home.

I have a favorite book that I promise you will love. It is called, The Life of Faustina Kowalska: The Authorized Biography.

Here is a brief story about St. Faustina, from Saint of the Day:

St. Mary Faustina's name is forever linked to the annual feast of the Divine Mercy (celebrated on the Second Sunday of Easter), the divine mercy chaplet and the divine mercy prayer recited each day by many people at 3 p.m.

Born in what is now west-central Poland (part of Germany before World War I), Helena was the third of 10 children. After age 16 she worked as a housekeeper in three cities before joining the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy in 1925. She worked as a cook, gardener and porter in three of their houses.

In addition to carrying out her work faithfully, generously serving the needs of the sisters and the local people, she also had a deep interior life. This included receiving revelations from the Lord Jesus, messages that she recorded in her diary at the request of Christ and of her confessors.

At a time when some Catholics had an image of God as such a strict judge that they might be tempted to despair about the possibility of being forgiven, Jesus chose to emphasize his mercy and forgiveness for sins acknowledged and confessed.
“I do not want to punish aching mankind,” he once told St. Mary Faustina, “but I desire to heal it, pressing it to my merciful heart” (Diary 1588). The two rays emanating from Christ's heart, she said, represent the blood and water poured out after Jesus' death (Gospel of John 19:34)

Because Sister Mary Faustina knew that the revelations she had already received did not constitute holiness itself, she wrote in her diary: “Neither graces, nor revelations, nor raptures, nor gifts granted to a soul make it perfect, but rather the intimate union of the soul with God. These gifts are merely ornaments of the soul, but constitute neither its essence nor its perfection. My sanctity and perfection consist in the close union of my will with the will of God” (Diary 1107).

Sister Mary Faustina died of tuberculosis in Krakow, Poland, on October 5, 1938. Pope John Paul II beatified her in 1993 and canonized her in 2000.

Comment:

Devotion to God's Divine Mercy bears some resemblance to devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. In both cases, sinners are encouraged not to despair, not to doubt God's willingness to forgive them if they repent. As Psalm 136 says in each of its 26 verses, “God's love [mercy] endures forever.”

Quote:

Four years after Faustina's beatification, Pope John Paul II visited the Sanctuary of Divine Mercy at Lagiewniki (near Krakow) and addressed members of her congregation. He said: “The message of divine mercy has always been very close and precious to me. It is as though history has written it in the tragic experience of World War II. In those difficult years, this message was a particular support and an inexhaustible source of hope, not only for those living in Krakow, but for the entire nation. This was also my personal experience, which I carried with me to the See of Peter and which, in a certain sense, forms the image of this pontificate. I thank divine providence because I was able to contribute personally to carrying out Christ's will, by instituting the feast of Divine Mercy. Here, close to the remains of Blessed Faustina, I thank God for the gift of her beatification. I pray unceasingly that God may have 'mercy on us and on the whole world' (chaplet of Divine Mercy).”

(This entry appears in the print edition of Saint of the Day.)

Happy Birthday Shiela

2007-10-01T10:39:00.000-04:00

My oldest turns 21 today... she is in Jolly Old England ... it also happens to be the feast day of St. Theresa the little flower, which is her confirmation name, Theresa. Happy Birthday Shiela!!!

21 years ago today, I have a funny story about that day. I had been having contractions that day and had a scheduled appointment to see my OB/GYN. I was also overdue by about 2 weeks. My sister Shiela, AKA Auntie Shiela, drove me to my appointment. I appeared to be having a few contractions, but the doctor sent me home to wait it out. Here is the funny part. I was craving Taco Bell, as I did the entire pregnancy. I told my sister that I wanted to have a taco on the way home. So she drove me there and while we were sitting at the drive through I started having an awful contraction... for some reason, perhaps a coping mechanism not taught in lamaze, I started reading everything on the menu... well when I was done with the reading, and the contraction, the voice on the other end of the drive thru says, "let me repeat that order..." and he proceeds to read back the entire menu!!!! We sure got a good laugh out of that.

Well the rest is gory and so forth... but suffice to say, we are honored to have her as our child. She is the oldest grandchild as well and we could not have asked for a better 'leader' ... we love you Shiela!! xxoo Mom

Why am I Catholic?

2007-09-30T08:59:00.000-04:00

"Anyone who has discovered Christ
Must lead others to Him.
A great joy cannot be kept to oneself.
It has to be passed on."
Pope Benedict XVI
(2005 World Youth Day)

Mother of the year, or

2007-09-25T10:38:00.000-04:00

... more like crazy mother of the year.
I took Warren and a friend of his to Game stop at Midnight to get their copies of Halo 3. I was so tired from getting little to no sleep the night before that I think they had me before I could think straight. WHAT WAS I THINKING?

I have to admit as a fellow gamer, (see this entry for full details: My Mother is a Gamer) it was pretty cool, translates: VERY NERDY, being apart of the excitement.

Sleep Schedule:

1:30AM Drop into Bed
2:00AM awoken by well-meaning-husband, needed the flight number of dd#1
2:30AM Back to sleep
4:00AM awoken by Mary, nightmare
4:30AM Back to sleep
5:30AM awoken by husband, going to work
pretty much everything after that is a blurrrrrrrr until 7ish

Sadly I have not gotten a chance to sample the game, as they have rewired the xbox to work on a computer, not sure which drive is connected to the shin bone, etc, you get the idea...

I'm very tired.

After a good nights rest, I'll be back to my normal self again...

Prayers please...

2007-09-24T00:15:00.002-04:00

Please pray for my sanity ... both my college girls will be gone by tomorrow. Shiela is leaving for a college in Europe tomorrow to take a semester there. Elizabeth was home for the weekend to give Shiela a proper send off but back to college she went. We will miss them both. The house won't be the same. The whole atmosphere changes when even one leaves.

One of my favorite books growing up was "Little Women." I remember I was already thinking about how my family would change at the age of 12. I had already started worrying about my older sister, then 14, going away to college.

At the dinner table this afternoon, I joked and told the girls to over compliment my spaghetti today because the boys never say "hmmm, this is delicious" ... that alone is worth keeping them around for. It will be our last dinner together for a while. Here is a blog entry from 2005 that describes a bit about why I will miss my girls: God's Grace

A few good movies to rent or own...

2007-09-23T23:31:00.000-04:00

This is a list of movies that are sometimes overlooked. I think they are worth watching:

The Way Home AWESOME! Great for the family, good for the children to learn about life around the world, loads of compassion in this one! Captions to read, however, I think you could explain some of it if the children did not catch on. Young children are clever and I think they would 'get it.'

PBS version of Pride and Prejudice, You must get this version, with Colin Firth. I believe if you are getting it via mail, it is 2 separate disc's so make sure you reserve both. AWESOME! The girls and I have seen this many times.

It Happened One Night EXCELLENT!! Family movie. Mary who is 3 enjoyed this along with the rest of the family.

Hotel Rwanda OH MY, I can't say enough. I learned a lot from this film ... a TRUE story. Please go watch this, not for the little ones. Then run out and buy the book (helps to support orphans of genocide) Left to Tell. A wonderful book full of inspiration!

Osama Grab some Kleenex this one is hard to watch, but worth it. It was well made.

Kitchen Stories, LOVED THIS ONE! Very sweet, whole family could see this one ... if they can read. :)

The Terminal, Light, nice, funny. Well acted. I saw this pre-DuhVinci, so I don't know if it would be as appealing to me. Tom Hanks doesn't sit well with me these days.

Bride & Prejudice, I finally learned a bit about what Bollywood is. Oh my this is truly chewing gum for the eyeballs, I know I've mentioned it before, but it was a fun one to watch.

The Castle, This is hilarious. It is rated R but it is for some choice words only. Otherwise it would not be rated R. I really enjoyed this one.

My Left Foot, I recently watched this with Shiela and Elizabeth, it was great, such inspiration. The DVD has some news reels of the Real mother who raised this man.

The Quiet Man One of my all time favorites, the kids and I have watched this many times.

I know these were hasty reviews, but please share with me one or more of your favorites, thanks.

Russia's dwindling population

2007-09-14T12:12:00.000-04:00

I'm sure you've heard the news about Russia's dwindling population and the government offering incentives for their citizens to have more babies. As I watched the report I was struck at how sad it is that one of the greatest gifts God has given us, LIFE, needs incentives for us to want to receive that gift. I watched as one family shared with the world their brand new .... mini-van, and then the baby that secured that deal. What next, incentives for raising the child? I can't imagine a child brought into a family that wanted him/her for the sole purpose of getting a new car.

School Days...

2007-09-11T11:07:00.000-04:00

Kindergarten gets harder and harder. I think now that I am an older mom, I know too much. I remember sending my oldest to kindergarten and not having the same fears or reservations.

All this summer I have agonized over the fact that I was sending my little girl on a bus, to school with strangers. I had spent the first five years of her life protecting her from strangers and here I was just going to let her hop on a bus at 8 in the morning and not see her until 3 in the afternoon. The thought of this was very unnerving.

Then to have to send my 18 year old off to college for the first time didn't help either. And now my oldest will be traveling to England. She will turn 21 while she is with strangers in another country. Not that I imagined we'd be having a fancy celebration, we are pretty low key and mainly have 'family' celebrations, of course with a big family there would be a minimum of 20 on any given day. But she will be with strangers instead. And I imagied going bar hopping with her! kidding. Happy to report that Shiela has never tasted liquor, nor beer for that matter. She informs me that she may 'touch' it before she is 21. A glass of wine in the blue skies while traveling might hit the spot she sez.

Yes this has been a tough September. My waistline shows that I have been feeding my anxieties. I suppose I need to get on the treadmill and start working it off. And start practicing what I preach, by turning this over to God. I have on many occasions just let go.... like when an entire day goes by and I don't hear from the 18 year old... imagine that A WHOLE DAY!!

I wish I could stop time and keep them little and in my eyesight. It seems Mary has adjusted to kindergarten just fine. The other day she came home sans a happy sticker. She apparently had hidden in some playground equipment and the teacher had to climb to find her. She was warned and given a sticker the first time it happened but the second time she was put on 'yellow' status and given no sticker. The next day she apparently talked another little girl into hiding with her from another class. My fears for her safety are waning ... now my prayers are centered around "Lord please help Mary behave" ... something I never worried about with my older kids. They were so afraid of me and the principals that they didn't dare misbehave. Mary has grown up with eye-rolling teens who don't come with they are called, or whose ears are stuffed with head phones. Yes we are working on our 'listening' skills as the teacher says for some reasons Mary does not come when she is called. "Is that right?" I say pretending to have learned this for the first time. I want to ask the teacher to whistle at top volume and blink the lights... usually works every time for me, but I decided to save that for a later date.

Well I've got a closet to go clean... typing makes me think I might actually do it today. You know one of those projects you plan to do once the kids go back to school. Then when they are in school you are so thrilled to be able to check email that you say you'll do the closet tomorrow.

I digress...

BTW, pray for my cousin Wayne today. He is a having heart surgery. Keep praying for my Uncle Curly and my Auntie Lenora... thanks.

Remembering 9/11

2007-09-11T09:29:00.000-04:00

My brother made this video several years ago, I thought I'd share: Requiem for 9/11

I have a tip to add more prayer to your daily life. If you happen to see the time on the clock read 9:11 either a.m. or p.m, take a moment to pray for an ending to terrorism, for the soldiers in Iraq and their families, along with the victims and their families of the 9/11 tragedy.

Peace,
Judy

Happy Birthday Blessed Mother

2007-09-08T10:56:00.000-04:00

Housework, is it necessary?

2007-08-21T13:11:00.001-04:00

Another one bites the dust...

2007-08-20T11:41:00.000-04:00

Well we dropped off dd #2 at college this weekend. It doesn't seem to get any easier. What a weekend though! She forgot to get an ID made, so we had to find someone to issu a temporary one until the id place would open on Monday. For those that don't know... an ID gets you into your dorm, into dining halls, into class... etc. So this was vital. When we arrived home, she called to say we needed to come back and bring her H.S. picture I.D., because without one she could not get an ID. So Rick was wonderful and after noon mass he drove all the way there with Julia and Mary. Elizabeth requested this so that they could see her dorm. I've had frequent phone calls but they are happy things, and she seems content.

Daughter #1 starts the semester later this year, so I get to enjoy her for another month.

Elvis

2007-08-16T17:16:00.000-04:00

I'm watching the news and I'm stunned at all the Elvis fanatics out there.

I remember when he died. "Isn't that sad?" was about all my family said of it. We were sad that he lived such a sad life (sex, drugs and booze) and that his child would be fatherless. There was a neighbor who bought shirts for her entire family to wear for the occasion. The black T-shirt had his picture on it and the words, "The King Lives." I teased her son a few years after Elvis' death, but he was quite offended raised his fist and shouted he'd fight anyone who made fun of the KING. He wore the shirt proudly each year.

You know at the time I just took it as odd and thought maybe they had perhaps dipped in the gene pool a few too many times. But as the years passed and the attention to Graceland grew I just thought that Elvis must have represented a special time in their lives and it was just hard for them to let go of the memories they had during the Elvis years.

My thoughts have changed though as I watch the various news reports of the thousands of followers who are stopping at Graceland. The news reports that many followers are here to visit the "meditation garden" and visit with Elvis. I can't imagine Elvis or anyone would want to be 'worshiped' like this. Even Saints ... who lived their lives completely for Christ ... have no desire to be worshiped less they take any attention away from the real King, God Almighty that is. Of course this is no fault of Elvis... just the countless lost souls who looking for love in all the wrong places.

The channel I'm watching now has interviewed some of the bystanders. "He's my King. I will love him forever." shouts one woman from Australia. Another says, "They say he is still alive, and I believe he is alive."

There is only one King and we all know who that is.

I was going to put up a picture of Elvis as I like visuals with my blogs, but when I googled his picture up came a picture of "The sacred heart of Elvis" sick sick sick.

I rest my case.

Feast of the Assumption

2007-08-15T22:43:00.000-04:00

Today's gospel moved me to tears... I do believe it is one of my favorites.

Gospel
Lk 1:39-56

Mary set out
and traveled to the hill country in haste
to a town of Judah,
where she entered the house of Zechariah
and greeted Elizabeth.
When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting,
the infant leaped in her womb,
and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit,
cried out in a loud voice and said,
“Blessed are you among women,
and blessed is the fruit of your womb.
And how does this happen to me,
that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears,
the infant in my womb leaped for joy.
Blessed are you who believed
that what was spoken to you by the Lord
would be fulfilled.”

And Mary said:

“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord;
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed:
the Almighty has done great things for me
and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm,
and has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones,
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
the promise he made to our fathers,
to Abraham and his children forever.”

Mary remained with her about three months
and then returned to her home.

We had a visiting priest from a Vietnamese parish. He had a wonderful homily and it would be impossible to repeat it in it's entirety but something he said is worth sharing. He said simply that Mary is OUR mother, the mother of all of us and that she will always protect us, in everything and every way. I know this is a simple thing that we already know. We know when Jesus was dying he gave her to all of us. So simple yet it is a clear picture of Our Blessed Mothers role is in all our lives.

It occurred to me at that instant that I am a mother and that I would do all within my power to protect my children... anything... we have this instinct like a mother bear to protect the children. And so it is with Our Blessed Mother she would do anything to protect us ... anything to bring us to heaven to be with her son. I hope I've done this justice... so hard to explain what I felt when I read it.

Blessed Mother Mary we love you, pray for us.

Rescue Dawn rated PG-13

2007-08-15T13:10:00.000-04:00

Rescue Dawn is the true story of Navy POW, Dieter Dengler's survival in vietnam.

Great film. It is a tough one to watch and I can't imagine it would be easy for a parent or spouse of someone currently serving in Iraq to view. I think it should be seen by all ... especially the young, 14 and older that is. Often war is glamorized, but not in this film. On top of that it is a true story of survival under the most extreme conditions. Fortunately it did not have political innuendo, so we were able to focus on the soldier and his story.

Directing, and acting were outstanding. It is very realistic and easy to get caught up in it. The POW's look as if they are starving and it is not due to a great makeup artist, but the actors really lost weight for their parts. Dieter has an infectious personality and a tremendously positive outlook that proves key to his survival. He has decided to survive and that he does. Sadly it will be leaving theaters soon so you may have to wait for the video. This would be one for your video library.

Here are some pictures of the actor Christian Bale who portrayed Dieter in the film. He not only had the acting down pat... he lost weight during the film. An amazing transformation.

Before being captured he was normal weight:

After he is a POW:

Here is a link to his life story: Dieter Dengler

Movie Mom Reviews

2007-08-13T11:37:00.001-04:00

I love Movies... good movies that is. Sometimes I review movies at different websites, and so I thought I'd start keeping track in this blog entry. It will be updated from time to time. Some movies I do not bother seeing but I will put a review from a reliable source if I think a warning is necessary.

Movies are so expensive, why waste your money, right? The ones with 'blah' next to them are a waste of time, money and emotion.

Movie Reviews:

Blah. Delta Farce PG-13

Blah. Things You Can Tell Just by Looking at Her

Blah. I know Pronounce You Chuck and Larry

Rescue Dawn PG-13

A Home of Our Own, starring Kathy Bates

Elizabeth Graduates!

2007-08-13T11:05:00.002-04:00

She will be leaving for college soon. Boy this part is probably the toughest... second time saying good-bye and it still doesn't get any easier.

We had a nice celebration at my sisters house yesterday ... a farewell celebration for the college kids. She leaves this weekend. :(

Motherhood, penance

2007-08-04T14:56:00.000-04:00

I've no doubt that mothers are doing penance here on earth. Sheesh. Right now I want to cry, but I feel that someday I MAY laugh at this, so I'll jot it down and then YEARS AND YEARS and yearssssssssssss.... LATER I will get a laugh out of it. big deal.

1:20PM Mary and Julia used a gallon of skim milk, and 3/4 of a container of Ovalteen. This was in a matter of minutes. Julia looked like she had gotten caught in a sewer, but Mary was clean.
M: I should not be punished because I'm a real good chocolate milk maker. Julia is not.
J: (just big smiles, so proud of her chocolate mess)

2 time outs later, and a thorough job of cleaning the kitchen. I had to remove chairs from the floor, move the dining room table, scrub cupboards, I'm sweating like a pig right now... still working while...

1:45PM Mary and Julia take a package of cookies... up to Shiela and Elizabeths room... no clue where they got it, I'm sure one of the teens purchased it. It was not in the kitchen because that is where I am.

Nicholas: Mom there are cookie crumbs up the stairs, down the hallway, and into Elizabeths room, and on her bed.

I SURRENDER. poor Elizabeth. She is in Washington today... wait until she returns. aye yi yi.

Me: Nicholas, lock their door, Mary and Julia back on the stairs!!!!

Julia: But Mom it was real easy to get the cookies.

What a smart cookie! She recalls me saying things such as this to the older ones: "If you leave it out you are responsible for the mess." Well I'll be changing my tune on that B.S. (bologna sandwich)

from the stairs I hear whispering: I can see the TV can you Julia?

TV IS SHUT OFF.

While on the stairs... yes there is more...

Nicholas: "MOM!!!!!!!!" (who incidentally is thoroughly ticked off by now as he has been my helper in these cleanups. 'MOM THERE IS FLAVOR-ICE ALL OVER THE STAIRS, IN CHUNKS, MELTING EVERYWHERE'

What sort of imp is this kid???? Julia somehow got flavor-ice, scissors, from the kitchen, while I'm in there!!!!!!

Mary: Mom she did not cut her hair, that is good right?

HELP!!!!!!!!!!!! There should be a 911 for mothers who need intervention... QUICK.

I'm just barely done with the kitchen. So I know that this has got to help make my time in purgatory much shorter. However this just occurred to me ... the totally angry thoughts I am having over this is probably making the time in purgatory longer... so I suppose in the end there is no difference.

My mother called to invite me to lunch... I've spared her the details here... but I'm taking her up on this. Of course lunch won't be until 4pm, when Shiela gets home from work.

Oh this story is not over yet.

Big mess in the game room...

me: Mary and Julia, come here, NOW. You have a mess to clean up.

Mary: I'll come when I feel like it.

Me: to myself, 'she did not just say that?'
Me: Mary what did you say?

Mary: I said I'll come when I feel like it.

......... spank .........

Mary: very cocky, "Why did you just hit me?"

spankings are rare in this house.

Me: Mary that was a spanking. When you get a time out, and it doesn't seem to make an impression with you, I sometimes make a longer time out. When that doesn't seem to work, I sometimes send you to your room. But sometimes, when you are sassy...

Mary: what is sassy?

Me: When you speak back to ...

Julia: I love you mommy. (master manipulator)

Me: I love you too Julia, but when you are bad, you have to get a spanking.

Julia: (Julia cooing and hugging my leg)

Mary: Are you going to hit me again?

Me: as I was saying, when You are sassy, you will be punished, and today I decided on a spanking. Now sit on the stairs until I tell you to get off!!!!!!

There is not enough calgon on this planet to take me away...

Movies

2007-08-02T10:56:00.001-04:00

I think Hollywood didn't want to be predictable so the endings of movies over the past few decades did not follow the normal 'happy ending.' No, wedding bells, all sorts of endings, but definitely no weddings. They are old, trite and been done before.

However if you ask me, this approach is tiring and old. Movies of long ago ended with the couple getting married and living happily ever after. I miss those endings. Now they end with pregnancies or babies and no marriage, new homes ... with doggies and yet still no marriage, couples in love ... in business together ... in bed together ... yet no marriage. Frankly I think it has become predictable again. I'm not sure but I can't help but think that all those living in sin, in Hollywood can feel less guilty because the masses of movie goers are in on it now ... simply by getting a ticket and sitting in a theater. It eases the natural conscience. But easing the conscience does not make it right. It is still wrong.

Nail clippers gone AWOL

2007-07-30T13:01:00.000-04:00

Oh where oh where have you gone... does anyone else have problems with missing nail clippers? I swear my house has a black hole in it. Along with the nail clippers, I'm missing countless combs, hair brushes, and scissors. I had a friend once say, "What you need to do is to put these items in the same place each time and then you will not lose them."

Really? I should have thought of that.

I had to laugh. She does not have children. Enough said. Don't I wish that I could put my comb in the drawer in my bathroom, and come back the next day and find it.

Of course other things go missing too... like remote controls. Now who takes a remote to their bedroom, puts it under their bed, and swears they have no idea how it got there. Who looks under a bed to find one? Well, I do. One day the lunch meat was missing from the fridge. I knew it was impossible for someone to eat that much meat in one day. I found it later in the cupboard where we keep the dishes.

I often call upon St. Anthony to help me find things, he is quite good, but I also rely on St. Jude ... in fact I now have a St. Jude key chain. It helps.

Well I'd better go... I need to find the phone charger. No clue WHY anyone would need to move that.

Happy Meals...

2007-07-26T12:52:00.000-04:00

I wanted to share this with you moms out there familiar with happy meals or as I secretly call them expensive crappy meals...

We have started making our own "happy meals." First I make a lunch, sometimes PB & J, with carrots, chips and a cookie, or the other day I made frozen chicken nuggets, fries and apples. The girls decorate brown lunch bags with crayons and markers. Then they select a previous happy meal toy or a small toy and put it in the bottom of the bag. Then we put in the food. They have really loved doing this. They even made up a lunch for their 12 year old brother... he received a broken yo-yo but was grateful for the decorated bag. He then took it a step further the next time and made french fry containers from construction paper.

Of course Mary Catherine sez after a day or two of this, "When can we get the REAL happy meals with NEW toys?"

Sheesh ... she has an answer for everything.

Let me know if you give it a try.

2007-07-24T13:35:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday Darling...

2007-07-21T13:52:00.000-04:00

My Rick is one year older today. God bless you sweetheart!

Happy Friday the 13th

2007-07-13T13:54:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone. We are packing for our vacation today. We will be heading to the mountains. We live near the beach so when we vacation we love have a change of pace.

Let me give a shout-out to Harrison Ford, "Happy Birthday! Hurry up and finish the 4th installment of Indiana Jones!"

I'm about as far away from superstitious as one can get. So I thought that I'd ask those who have a story to share about the good things that have happened on Friday the 13th (any month ... any year)... please share.

Well I'll start, here is a previous post from May 13, 2005! Enjoy!

I found a great site that really teaches both Catholics/non-Catholics about the Saints: Praying to the Saints Explained

Saints and Angels Feast Day: July 13

St. Henry
St. Silas
St. Francis Solano
St. Teresa de los Andes
Bl. Thomas Tunstal
St. Turiaf
St. Serapion
St. Dogfan
St. Henry II
St. Myrope

Check out Today in History: http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/today/jul13.html

My least-Favorite Things Lyrics

2007-07-11T16:06:00.000-04:00

Ever just had one of those days....

Sung to the tune of My Favorite Things

Lyrics: Judy, ME
Song: My least-Favorite Things Lyrics

Peanut butter on couches and jelly on walls
mildewed sipper cups and warm dirty diapers
Brown unknown markings on the bathroom walls
These are a few of my least-favorite things

Drawn colored walls and sassy teen mouths
unsolicited phone calls and large cell phone bills
Wild messy bedrooms with clothes strung all about
These are a few of my least-favorite things

Girls in short dresses with dark black eyelashes
Drippings that stay on little noses all icky
Silver white hair that won't take to color
These are a few of my least-favorite things

When the kids yell
When the phone rings
When I'm paying bills
I simply remember my least-favorite things

And then I don't feel so bad

[Repeat all verses]

BTW, if you actually want to sing along, as I did, here's a midi to play on your computer, just scroll down to "My Favorite things": http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Meadows/9298/index2a.html

Julia, Julia, Julia

2007-07-07T01:23:00.001-04:00

M: dumped bag of straws on game room floor (I am a big straw girl, and I had Shiela pick up a bag to replace on the way home)

Tu: dumped new bag of straws on game room floor (this time I made the kids pick them up and keep them ... gross but I don't care)

W: Julia colored herself with green permanent marker (Eliz: Mom don't punish her she was just not being watched good enough ... never found the markers)

Th: peanut butter mishap <-- says it all F: Julia got into Shiela's makeup ... left out by Elizabeth who gave the girls makeovers ... and she covered her lily white body from head to toe using a DARK waterproof bronzer as a body lotion. I was headed out the door all packed up for the pool. I had to use ponds cold cream to get it off. (I was going to leave her at home while we went to the pool but Elizabeth said that it was not Julia's fault because she left it out and Julia was too tempted) Oh and you should have seen the mess in the family room!!!!!!

Sat: Shiela made a big salad for all of us for lunch, then left for work. Mary came running "mom mom Julia is making a recipe!" ... she had dumped the entire bottle of apple juice, ketchup in the salad bowel. WHAT A MESS. (I made Elizabeth clean it up, because she had lunch dishes and left it out. This time Elizabeth is fed up. I hear this: "Julia go sit on the stairs for a time out and you are going to eat every bit of this salad until it is gone. You are going to have it for lunch, for dinner, for your bedtime snack and you are going to have it for breakfast." haha... I'm loving this. I should have left her at home and went to the pool as planned! I'm sure she would have remembered it.

Sun: I will attempt to have her exercised by a priest, or at least dunk her in the holy water font!!!!!!

Pray for us sinners...

2007-07-06T11:17:00.000-04:00

I had an interesting conversation with a friend of mine who does not believe in the Saints or Our Blessed Mother. She knows Mary is the mother of Christ, but frankly she is not important to my friend, as is the case with most religions. This is very sad to me, because frankly it is like saying that Mothers are not important, but the Mother of God should strike fear and love in everyone. I can't imagine meeting Christ, and saying I love You, but not your Mother. I would not say that to any of my friends, so why would I say it to Jesus?

Nonetheless I did my best to explain to her the importance of the Saints and Our Blessed Mother. The conversation went something like this:

Friend: Please pray for my son to make the right decision about his future. (Note: pretty serious steps he is taking)

ME: "I certainly will, and why not ask St. Jude to pray for your special intentions? He is the patron of desperate cases and will not cease praying for your intentions."

Friend: "Oh Judy you know me I'll go straight to Jesus." (smiles)

Me: "OK then why ask me to pray for you?" (grins)

Not convinced but I could see I got my point across. I adore this friend and I have actually had conversations like this with others. I usually will end the conversation with, "why not ask those closest to Our Lord, those in heaven with Him as we speak, to pray for us. I mean I am a lowly sinner and you ask me, but asking his dear friends, the saints, and His Mother to pray for you honors Him all the more."

Later I had the opportunity to convince my friend even more about the Saints. I happened to call her one afternoon and she was in a state of panic. She had lost her keys and her husband was out of town. She was supposed to take one of the kids to a soccer game and had a whole list of errands to do but had given up finally as it was already 2 in the afternoon. I said calmly, "Well if you would just ask St. Jude to help you, he would." Reluctant, but desperate, she said "OK." Before we even finished praying over the phone, her son who was sitting behind her jumped up and said, "MOM MOM, THE KEYS, THEY FELL OUT OF THE RECLINER JUST NOW!"

"OK Judy you win, I'm going to have to tell my husband about this!"

Clever You Tube...

2007-07-05T12:06:00.000-04:00

watch video

I don't know if you have ever played the Sims video game, I have. I've no clue why I'd want to clean house in a video game ... but it is slightly addictive. Well my neice, Clare, sent me this video and I thought it was quite clever so I thought I'd share. Enjoy!

GOD BLESS AMERICAN

2007-07-04T17:27:00.000-04:00

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY ALL!

From a Message Board I replied to about divorce, or seperation

2007-07-01T23:52:00.000-04:00

You may need an intervention by a priest or a catholic counselor or a couples retreat. Also, it would be beneficial to all if you started a Novena for your Marriage, together if he will cooperate but alone otherwise. Ask with tenderness. Read about St. Thomas More, he died defending marriage. (Happens to be the patron of my anniversary date.)

I would go to ebay or amazon and buy this book: How To Change Your Husband Awesome book.

I would also like to add that this may be a time of spiritual warfare. The devil will work on breaking up the family above all things. It is the earthly bond that most represents The Holy Family. Be on guard. Continue your daily prayers, Rosary, Divine Chaplet, etc. Then add to that the St. Michaels Prayer, every time you get a bad thought about your husband.

Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in the hour of battle, be our safeguard against the wickedness and snares of the devil, may God restrain him we humbly pray, and do thou oh Prince of the Heavenly Host, by the power of God, cast into hell satan and all the evil spirits that roam through the world, seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.

We are not in paradise now, but our actions on this short life will totally affect out eternity. Do not run away from your husband but towards him with humility, and patience.

Read this humbling short story: The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector

He will change, if you are patient and pray without ceasing. God is good and I have seen miracles, HE will respond. Be vigilant, never cease praying. Pray for an increase in faith. Keep in mind that God is all good and all knowing. HE does not want to see you suffer. Come to Him for everything.

Mark 11:24-24

Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.

At night put your hand on your husbands back and say this,

"ComeHoly Spirit Fill the Hearts of Thy Faithful and Enkindle in them the Fire of Your Love."

Then envision the fire of the Holy Spirit filling both your hearts, as one.

Here is a verse to meditate on:

Gen 2:21-24

21So the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and he slept; then He took one of his ribs and closed up the flesh at that place. 22The LORD God fashioned into a woman the rib which He had taken from the man, and brought her to the man. 23The man said,"This is now bone of my bones,And flesh of my flesh;She shall be called Woman,Because she was taken out of Man." 24For this reason a man shall leave his father and his mother, and be joined to his wife; and they shall become one flesh.

God bless you and think about this:

Proverbs 14
1The wise woman builds her house,But the foolish tears it down with her own hands.

Hi ho Hi ho, off to the ER I go...

2007-06-30T15:14:00.000-04:00

Sheesh, I had to go to the ER on Thursday again. Same awful abdominal pain. It reminded me of contractions this time. The ER doctor said that I had an air bubble in my intestine blocking normal function and causing spasms/pain, which explained why it felt like contractions. It appears that this pocket of air formed at the surgery site. (The place where they had to cut out some of my bowel.) It had been suggested that there is a lot of scar tissue on the outside of the bowel, that is causing this problem

Fortunately, this time they allowed me to go home and deal with it rather than stay on an IV with pain meds at the hospital. I was hesitant at first but they gave me the same meds that they would have put me on in the hospital. Also, I was put on clear liquids.

Glad to be back home. Yesterday I spent the day in bed, sleeping mostly. My dh and kids took care of the daily chores, meals and the little ones. It was nice. Today I'm feeling just sore, but I was able to clean 3 bathrooms and do some laundry. This isn't a very exciting post, but it is therapeutic for me ... helps keep things in perspective, keeping panic attacks away. It is always in the back of my head that it could be a twisted bowel with gangrene again. So writing it and seeing that it is NOT that serious, just painful, helps tremendously.

Thanks for the prayers. God bless you all!

Peace,
Judy

Our 22 Anniversary, & St. Thomas More, feast day June 22

2007-06-22T14:00:00.000-04:00

Today was our 22nd anniversary. I was pampered with a
french manicure and a pedicure with rocopoco red polish.

When Rick got home from work, I was greeted with a romantic card & a lovely pool bag in pale pink. Something I had mentioned that I needed. I was tired of carrying plastic grocery bags to the pool. But I was impressed at the 'pink' ... too sweet.

We then went to dinner ... I had grilled salmon and shrimp, Rick had the grilled seafood platter with lobster tail ... and a Movie, Mighty Heart. It was a good movie but quite sad. One line I appreciated in the film was when the Marrianne, wife of Daniel Pearl, said after all that had happened, not to be terrorized by terrorists (not exact quote). I don't want to give too much away. It was great.

My tidbit of married wisdom is this: do not ask "what has HE/She done for me" ... but rather ask yourself "what have I done?"

Remember this, you can not change anyone but yourself.

Therefore what God has joined together, no human being must separate." Matthew 10:9

~*~*~*~*~*~

ST. Thomas More

June 22, 2007
(1478-1535)

His belief that no lay ruler has jurisdiction over the Church of Christ cost Thomas More his life.
Beheaded on Tower Hill, London, July 6, 1535, he steadfastly refused to approve Henry VIII’s divorce and remarriage and establishment of the Church of England.

Described as “a man for all seasons,” More was a literary scholar, eminent lawyer, gentleman, father of four children and chancellor of England. An intensely spiritual man, he would not support the king’s divorce from Catherine of Aragon in order to marry Anne Boleyn. Nor would he acknowledge Henry as supreme head of the Church in England, breaking with Rome and denying the pope as head.

More was committed to the Tower of London to await trial for treason: not swearing to the Act of Succession and the Oath of Supremacy. Upon conviction, More declared he had all the councils of Christendom and not just the council of one realm to support him in the decision of his conscience.

Comment:

Four hundred years later, in 1935, Thomas More was canonized a saint of God. Few saints are more relevant to the 20th century. The supreme diplomat and counselor, he did not compromise his own moral values in order to please the king, knowing that true allegiance to authority is not blind acceptance of everything that authority wants. King Henry himself realized this and tried desperately to win his chancellor to his side because he knew More was a man whose approval counted, a man whose personal integrity no one questioned. But when Thomas resigned as chancellor, unable to approve the two matters that meant most to Henry, the king had to get rid of Thomas More.

I'm HOT ...

2007-06-20T13:20:00.000-04:00

... not in the pin-up sense of the word, but more in the hormonal sense. I keep the a/c normal cool during the day but at night I sneak down and lower it as low as I can before feeling too guilty. My family is freezing. I peek in at them when they are asleep and they are all dressed for winter, quilts and all. I've got an ice water and a cold compress next to my bed. I keep expecting to wake up and find that I've created my own weather conditions in the house and it will be snowing... A girl can dream eh?

Eating healty on a budget

2007-06-19T13:10:00.000-04:00

Get veggies and fruits that are on sale and in season, they'll taste better too ... fortunately today we have the advantage of cheap canned veggies with no salt.
Cut out salt, but if you must, get sea salt.
Use fat sparingly, buy olive oil and canola oil. BTW, you should not notice much of a budget change by switching to of olive oil, because you use it sparingly. (store it in a cool place or in the fridge) Margarine may be cheap but it is really bad for you, so if you have to spread something go for the smart balance that has Omega-3 in it or if you can be trusted with butter, use it sparingly ... like never. NO REAL MAYO unless you can spread it so thin you can read through it. Try the fat free, or the new smart balance mayo. Get natural peanut butter with no corn syrup, and your heart will thank you (Skippy has a nice natural PB)
Oatmeal for breakfast is cheap and good for all that ails you. Steel cut is the best, but frankly good ol' Quaker oats is definitely good for you. If you don't like hot cereal, then find an alternative like shredded mini wheats. We love those!
Switch out white for brown ... pasta, rice, breads. Whole grain Pasta by barilla is marginally more expensive but worth it in medical bills if you KWIM ... not to mention very tastey. GET RID OF WHITE BREAD it is like eating spoonfuls of sugar. Find a bread store that has discount bread day and load up your freezer with 'whole grain' breads instead.
Make all the same recipes you have before except swap out the healthier stuff like instead of fried, bake. Baked fries with a sprinkle of salt-free seasoning, skins on for fiber, and a dab of olive oil is much tastier than deep fried fries or frozen crud. When it comes to the casseroles, do the same ones only use brown rice, and whole wheat pasta, change from ground beef to ground turkey. It will cost a little bit more but it will be better for you. TIP: get some very lean ground beef and mix it with the turkey and use less of it. You do not need as much protein as you think.
When it comes to cream sauce in a casserole, I use skim milk instead of cream or whole milk, and I use smart butter and flour. I got a tip from a healthy cookbook that used regular cheese but just much less. So you get that nice sharp cheese taste on top of your casserole but with less calories. If it calls for a cheese topping, make some bread crumbs with whole grain bread, a dab of olive oil and just a couple ounces of real cheese. Mix together and top the casserole with it.
Most soda is loaded with sodium, and really bad for you so switch to ice tea and it can be pretty cheap. Tea is a natural antioxidant and if your budget will allow throw in a couple of green tea bags ... I did and it is delish!
My kids have become expert dessert makers too. Because I do not buy desserts, occasional ice cream but no cookies, cakes, candy etc. Elizabeth has even created a hand dipped chocolate... to die for... using smart balance instead of butter, and dips them in dark chocolate. They are filled with sugar of course, but the point being, they can't (and I can't) stand at the pantry and load up on that junk, and it takes effort to make something from scratch.

My family has eaten healthy my whole life (thanks MOM) . We may have big rear ends but we all have good hearts! Even when my parents were on a budget, they made healthy foods. We never had chef borardee, or hamburger helper, unless it was a 'treat' ... same with frozen foods, sugary cereals, or pop tarts. And let me tell you, it was RARE. Always at least one veggie but usually 2 with dinner, meat was portioned out and not overflowing with extras.

Some of these suggestions you may want to try in doses. But if you take the attitude that you are going to enjoy this new adventure then you will. And to treat yourself occasionally to a treat is the way it should be. I would not be able to maintain this life style if I said I could NEVER have coke and movie popcorn again. And to never have an ice cream Sunday???? NO way. But if they are treated, as 'treats' then your heart will thank you and you the treat will be that much sweeter when you indulge.

Best budget/health tip of all, when you walk into the store, ask Our Blessed Mother to help you get what you need to feed your family healthfully on a budget, and help you to leave the things you don't.

Boy I hope this makes sense, I've been interrupted so many times, sheesh. Have a great day!

2007-06-14T15:10:00.001-04:00

2007-06-12T22:57:00.001-04:00

If you would like to receive communion more often and you are not able to attend daily Mass you can practice the Act of Spiritual Communion as often as you like:

Act of Spiritual Communion by St. Alphonsus Liguori (A.D. 1696-1787)

My Jesus, I believe that Thou art present in the Blessed Sacrament. I love Thee above all things and I desire Thee in my soul. Since I cannot now receive Thee sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. ... (pause) ... As though thou wert already there, I embrace Thee and unite myself wholly to Thee; permit not that I should ever be separated from Thee.

Motherly advice

2007-06-12T11:17:00.000-04:00

I know we've all heard that phrase, "eat everything on your plate, because there are people starving in China." It was debunked for years by modern psychology saying that mothers were making glutens out of their children. Children were becoming obese because their mothers made them eat everything on their plates. In the beginning of parenthood, I too bought into that belief, having weight issues of my own I didn't force anyone to finish their plates. It does make dinner time pleasant and the kids are happy that there is no pressure to eat anything they don't want. However, could I be neglecting my kids souls?

I think it is important to teach our children to appreciate what they have and not to take it for granted. I also believe that when you are given much, much is expected of you. I think it is our obligation to look out for out children, body, mind and soul. Though the later is not the least but rather I was saving the best for last. Yes we must nourish their souls as well.

In parenting there are many opportunities for lessons. For example, when the tragedy of Va. Tech happened I asked my kids to not take their education for granted because there are kids that will no longer be able to further their education. Kids that can't even wake up in the morning and go to school I let them know that it is like a slap in God's face to skip homework when He has given them many blessings to be able to do their homework. When they want to stay home from school, I let them know that they are healthy and able to go and that there are places in this world where the kids are forced to work and not allowed to go to school. Is this Catholic guilt? Perhaps, or perhaps it is nourishment for the soul.

When much is given much is expected.

I have been practicing this in my own life, and thinking about the mundane tasks as gifts from God. Thank you Jesus for giving me the ability to fold laundry, to care for my family and to have a home to clean. Thank you Jesus.

Have a nice day!

If you give a Moose Mom a muffin Magic eraser...

2007-06-06T23:54:00.001-04:00

She will use it to remove the crayon marks on the kitchen door. When she is done with the kitchen door she will notice the black marks on the light switch. Next she will see the scuff marks on the kitchen floor that lead to the family room where she will wipe off the marks along the walls where the furniture has been pushed up against the wall. This will lead to the stairway and she will see the dirty banister and while wiping that on her way up the stairs she will see the bathroom, when she reaches the bathroom she will see the soap scum on the tub and will use what is left of the Magic eraser to wipe it down... then most likely she will plop down in a recliner and call the local pizza parlor and have them prepare dinner.

I love the series of books by Laura Joffe Numeroff, and when I was doing some cleaning today with my Magic Eraser, which I think is the best invention since sliced bread, I was hopping from one task to another and that story popped in my head.

Live and Learn

2007-06-01T15:57:00.000-04:00

I recently purchased an Itunes song by Rufus Wainwright. Blah. I purchased going to a town, and learned my lesson to google the lyrics FIRST. This is just yet another waste of talent. A bitter lyricist taking his bitterness out on Jesus Christ and America. Blah. Talents are given from above so it seems that a more careful use of them would be warranted. One of the lyrics "Tell me do you really think you go to hell for having loved?" I can answer that Rufus, NO. Duh. I have never found a passage in the Bible nor a Christian writer that says, one goes to Hell for having Loved. And frankly I dare say that any of the other religions out there carry that philosophy. But perhaps your definition of "LOVE" is something that is offensive to God and therefore you are trying to justify that action by calling it "LOVE." My suggestion is to save your money and spend it on something else like toilet paper.

Self-tanners

2007-05-31T15:28:00.001-04:00

OK, so I have a funny story to share about my first day at the pool last summer. My sister called me somewhat last minute to join her and her daughters at the pool. I looked at my blueish white body and decided a quick tan in the bottle would be best. I ran upstairs threw on my lovely new bathing suit, a nice tankini with a black skirt, and a tropical top. As much coverage as possible is my motto thank-you-very-much. Next I slathered on the self-tanner and headed out the door.

They all admired my new suit and my lovely tan. It was rather hot so we all decided to cool off in the pool. I got in and enjoyed floating about when my niece says, "Auntie you have some brown stuff on your shoulder." I looked over and it looked like someone had dumped a coke on my shoulders, so I brushed it off. When we stepped out of the pool I started laughing hysterically unable to even talk. I just pointed to my legs and arms and all of us stood there unable to move because we were laughing so hard. Of course the lifeguards, (my kids) were less impressed by the dripping of brownish goo all over their mothers body. Needless to say I will wait the 2 hours it requires before jumping in the pool next time. aye yi yi

Population Control

2007-05-31T15:22:00.000-04:00

So tired of this tiresome subject... I heard some more blah blah blah on the radio today, we take up more trees blah blah blah, more oxygen, blah blah blah... how about we offer more? Hmmmm now there's a thought!

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble, Therefore we will not fear though the earth should change, Though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult. "Be still, and know that I am God. I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth!" The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge. Psalm 46 1-3, 10-11

I support population control
of those who want population control.
~Me

Matthew 6:24-34

2007-05-28T18:54:00.000-04:00

Matthew 6:24-34

¹⁵ "No one can serve two masters. He will either hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.

¹⁶ "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat (or drink), or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?

Look at the birds in the sky; they do not sow or reap, they gather nothing into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are not you more important than they?

Can any of you by worrying add a single moment to your life-span? ¹⁷

Why are you anxious about clothes? Learn from the way the wild flowers grow. They do not work or spin.

But I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was clothed like one of them.

¹⁸ If God so clothes the grass of the field, which grows today and is thrown into the oven tomorrow, will he not much more provide for you, O you of little faith?

So do not worry and say, 'What are we to eat?' or 'What are we to drink?' or 'What are we to wear?'

All these things the pagans seek. Your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.

But seek first the kingdom (of God) and his righteousness, ¹⁹ and all these things will be given you besides.

Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself. Sufficient for a day is its own evil.

American Idol

2007-05-24T13:49:00.001-04:00

I just turned into a fan once I got a DVR. I can speed through the performances I do not like and of course the commercials. I'm not sure if the DVR has saved me time as I once thought or turned me into a TV junkie. LOL

Well I was not a huge fan of Jordon, the winner, of the two finalists I really wanted Blake. The kids and I really liked

Chris Sligh, he really had the best personality and we loved is voice. I hope he has a CD coming out.

Of course who couldn't love Melinda Doolittle. She was just so kind, posed and really had a nice voice.

The Now

2007-05-24T13:42:00.000-04:00

The Now

When I look into the future,

I am frightened, But why plunge into the future?

Only the present moment is precious to me.

As the future may never enter my soul at all.

It is no longer in my powerTo change,

to correct or add to the past;

For neither sages nor prophets could do that.

And so, what the past has embraced

I must entrust to God.

O present moment, you belong to me,whole and entire.

I desire to use you as best I can.

And although I am weak and small,

You grant me the grace of your Omnipotence.
Divine Mercy in my soul (2)

Have no anxiety at all...

2007-05-23T12:37:00.000-04:00

Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4: 6,7

"Do not lose your inward peace for anything whatsoever, even if your whole world seems upset. Commend all to God, and then lie still and be at rest in God's bosom... Whatever happens, abide steadfast in a determination to cling simply to God; trusting to God's eternal love for you." St. Francis de Sales

Bachelor spoiler (if you've DVR'd it)

2007-05-22T11:20:00.000-04:00

I'm a bachelor junky... along with survivor (Earl was my 3rd choice, I wanted Yau-man first, then Dreamz second)... anywho, I am thrilled that Tessa won. I wanted her from day one. She seemed to be the most genuine lady in the bunch. However, even though I just love this mush, I would never want anyone I know participating. I can't imagine Andy and Tessa sitting together and watching the last episode... especially when he can't decide up until the last minute who would be right for him. I think I'd be running for the exit if I were Tessa... I want someone totally taken with me, and me only.

BTW, I also enjoy Amazing Race, I wanted Charla and Mirna to win, but at least Rob and Amber did not win .

I know git a life, eh?

Delta Farce PG-13

2007-05-22T03:29:00.001-04:00

I can't believe I'm starting with this movie to review. I'm truly embarrassed that I even bought a ticket. Aye yi yi!!!!!Let me try to sum it up in very few words. Three stooges meets hillbilly humor in the desert. blah blah blah.It is hard to be offended by such blah blah blah acting, writing, directing, but there are many scenes where the Blessed Mother is displayed where gun fire is streaming past her, around her and it is hard to watch. Always the optimist, I did find it amazing that she was never harmed in the cross fire. Also there is a man wearing a Rosary. Pretty disgusting.The only thing that I can leave you with that was 'positive' is that I was out for an evening in a comfortable seat, with a good friend, enjoying some Delicious popcorn (and water I brought from home.)
I can't believe I'm admitting that I actually saw this. ewwwwwwwwwww

Is that Sergeant Carter?

2007-05-21T19:32:00.000-04:00

No it is Edward! Looks very much like Sergeant Carter, here is what Edward sent with the crazy haircut:

~~~~~Edwards Story~~~~~~

I went to the $5 haircut shop this noon during my lunch break. Being the frugal miester with haircuts, I decided to splurge on this $5 luxury instead of using my Brush and cut I received from my sister in law for Christmas ("as seen on TV") and purchaseable at any CVS or Walgreens. I walked in and a very pleasant oriental lady asked in a loud voice "How much off!" "I thought it was $5 for a haircut?" I replied."NO.. NO! How much hair off?!" She asked me."Well, I like it short on the sides and oh about 1" to 1 1/2 "in top." I said as I settled in the chair that would fit my son, Ivan, just right. It creaked, but only a little.My friendly hair cuttress proceeded to grab the first electrical saw she could find and blindly laid into my temple, revealing a smooth and rather greyless scalp. I groaned, "Uhhhmm... maam... uhh" I was speechless. It was already said and done and well the rest is history....

May 13, Mothers Day, My mothers a gamer

2007-05-21T19:30:00.000-04:00

My Mothers A Gamer: May 18, 2007
My kids nominated me for My Mothers A Gamer, mothers day contest, we did not win, but I thought I'd share their entry. Warms a mothers heart, a gamer mother that is. Shiela was in charge of writing the story ... they left out my gamer tag, "XboxMomx6" ... (from this website: http://www.xbox.com/en-US/community/events/mymomsagamer/default.htm)
~~~~~Enjoy~~~~
My beautiful, wonderful mother is a gamer. No, I don’t mean the Tetris/Sims sissy mothers. That doesn’t count. I mean the Halo playin’, hardcore RPG, sword slashing gamer.
You would think we live in a basement with empty beer cans crashed about with an angry mother who stares furiously into a lit screen while she shouts obscenities at her children. Quite the opposite. My mother cooks dinner every night. Our house is spotless. She’s an Arch Mage (Oblivion duh).
She is the perfect mother.
Her gaming began in a Pizza Parlor with the arcade game Tank by Kee games, then into the 80’s she played Pac Man, Qubert, and Centipede at the mall. Her father bought her and her siblings Colecovision for the Christmas of 1982. I’ve heard stories of the family playing Zaxxon well into the night.
A few years later after getting married she started a family (of game systems and six children). We played the original Zelda and shot ducks together (Duck Hunt) on the NES. We played Crono Trigger and Super Mario World on the Super Nintendo. We played the classic Zelda, Mario Kart (with all four controllers no less), and Perfect Dark on the N64. I can remember playing co-op with her every night until completion. Good Times.
After a long shortage of intense gaming, Xbox launched with fury on our household. Were talking non-stop, all night, co-op Halo, blowing up Aliens with mom. Not easy mode—Legendary. It was the greatest gaming experience since Orcarina of Time.
However its not all gun shooting with my mom. My mother is also patient. She completed Morrowind. Enough said.
My mother also loves Xbox live. She saved my uncle’s life with it. One night she had convinced him to stay up and play Midtown Madness with her. It was very late and he wanted to go to bed. While he was playing a fire had started in his laundry room and began to spread about the house. It was a freak situation; even the fire alarm did not go off. If it were not for my mother and her passion for Xbox live he would have gone to bed and slept through the danger.
Xbox 360 is the current fascination in our household. My mother is a great cook. She served up her own Caldera Rice with 360 sauce in celebration of Oblivion’s arrival. A woman of strong moral integrity, she has completed all of Oblivion with the exception of the Dark Brotherhood.
She is now in preparation for Halo 3.