As part of the Love and Logic Insider's Club I receive some great emails. Here's another good one I wanted to share. loveandlogic.com
With Christmas just one week away, we wanted to share an article Jim Fay wrote a couple years ago about the meaning of the holidays. We hope you enjoy a very happy holiday season!
HAVE A PERFECTLY IMPERFECT CHRISTMAS
What was your best Christmas as a kid? Was it the one where there was a lot of stress about a perfect meal elegantly served—on time—to a perfectly dressed family? Or was it the one where the dog pulled the turkey off the stove and dragged it away through the dog door? There was no perfect meal that day. Everyone rolled with the punches. They rolled up their sleeves and worked together in the kitchen to salvage a makeshift meal.
The beauty of that memory is not in perfection and organization, but in remembering the joy of being together and doing things together. It was the laughter. It was one of those days when the choices were to laugh or to cry, so you all laughed it off and enjoyed one another. It brought you all together in a different way.
Holidays are times for enjoying one another. We are not suggesting that you purposely feed the turkey to the pets, but we strongly suggest that an imperfect day with little stress will create better memories of loving relationships.
We wish you a perfectly imperfect holiday season.
Thanks for reading!
Jim Fay
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Saturday, December 13, 2008
12 Days of Christmas
The following is from an email forward I received. I am not sure if it is accurate, but thought it was interesting...
There is one Christmas Carol that has always baffled me.
What in the world do leaping lords, French hens,
swimming swans, and especially the partridge who won't come out
of the pear tree have to do with Christmas?
From 1558 until 1829, Roman Catholics in England were
not permitted to practice their faith openly. Someone
during that era wrote this carol as a catechism song for young Catholics.
It has two levels of meaning: the surface meaning
plus a hidden meaning known only to members of their church. Each
element in the carol has a code word for a religious reality
which the children could remember.
-The partridge in a pear tree was Jesus Christ.
-Two turtle doves were the Old and New Testaments.
-Three French hens stood for faith, hope and love.
-The four calling birds were the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke & John.
-The five golden rings recalled the Torah or Law, the first five books of the Old Testament.
-The six geese a-laying stood for the six days of creation.
-Seven swans a-swimming represented the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit--Prophesy, Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Contribution, Leadership, and Mercy.
-The eight maids a-milking were the eight beatitudes.
-Nine ladies dancing were the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit--Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness,
Gentleness, and Self Control.
-The ten lords a-leaping were the ten commandments.
-The eleven pipers piping stood for the eleven faithful disciples.
-The twelve drummers drumming symbolized the twelve points of belief in the Apostles' Creed.
So there is your history for today. This knowledge was shared with me and I found it interesting and enlightening and now I know how that strange song became a Christmas Carol...so pass it on if you wish.'
Merry (Twelve Days of) Christmas Everyone
There is one Christmas Carol that has always baffled me.
What in the world do leaping lords, French hens,
swimming swans, and especially the partridge who won't come out
of the pear tree have to do with Christmas?
From 1558 until 1829, Roman Catholics in England were
not permitted to practice their faith openly. Someone
during that era wrote this carol as a catechism song for young Catholics.
It has two levels of meaning: the surface meaning
plus a hidden meaning known only to members of their church. Each
element in the carol has a code word for a religious reality
which the children could remember.
-The partridge in a pear tree was Jesus Christ.
-Two turtle doves were the Old and New Testaments.
-Three French hens stood for faith, hope and love.
-The four calling birds were the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke & John.
-The five golden rings recalled the Torah or Law, the first five books of the Old Testament.
-The six geese a-laying stood for the six days of creation.
-Seven swans a-swimming represented the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit--Prophesy, Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Contribution, Leadership, and Mercy.
-The eight maids a-milking were the eight beatitudes.
-Nine ladies dancing were the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit--Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness,
Gentleness, and Self Control.
-The ten lords a-leaping were the ten commandments.
-The eleven pipers piping stood for the eleven faithful disciples.
-The twelve drummers drumming symbolized the twelve points of belief in the Apostles' Creed.
So there is your history for today. This knowledge was shared with me and I found it interesting and enlightening and now I know how that strange song became a Christmas Carol...so pass it on if you wish.'
Merry (Twelve Days of) Christmas Everyone
Friday, December 12, 2008
White Envelope
Here's a story from an email forward....
It's just a small white envelope stuck among the branches of our Christmas tree. No name, no identification, no inscription. It has peeked through the branches of our tree for the past 10 years or so.
It all began because my husband Mike hated Christmas--oh, not the true meaning of Christmas, but the commercial aspects of it -- the overspending, the frantic running around at the last minute to get a tie for Uncle Harry and the dusting powder for Grandma --the gifts given in desperation because you couldn't think of anything else.
Knowing he felt this way, I decided one year to bypass the usual shirts, sweaters, ties, and so forth. I reached for something special just for Mike. The inspiration came in an unusual way. Our son Kevin, who was 12 that year, was wrestling at the junior level at the school he attended.
Shortly before Christmas, there was a non-league match against a team sponsored by an inner-city church. These youngsters, dressed in sneakers so ragged that shoestrings seemed to be the only thing holding them together, presented a sharp contrast to our boys in their spiffy blue and gold uniforms and sparkling new wrestling shoes.
As the match began, I was alarmed to see that the other team was wrestling without headgear, a kind of light helmet designed to protect a wrestler's ears. It was a luxury the ragtag team obviously could not afford.
Well, we ended up walloping them. We took every weight class. And as each of their boys got up from the mat, he swaggered around in his tatters with false bravado, a kind of street pride that couldn't acknowledge defeat.
Mike, seated beside me, shook his head sadly, 'I wish just one of them could have won,' he said. 'They have a lot of potential, but losing like this could take the heart right out of them.' Mike loved kids -- all kids -- and he knew them, having coached little league football, baseball, and lacrosse.
That's when the idea for his present came. That afternoon, I went to a local sporting goods store and bought an assortment of wrestling headgear and shoes and sent them anonymously to the inner-city church.
On Christmas Eve, I placed the envelope on the tree, the note inside telling Mike what I had done and that this was his gift from me. His smile was the brightest thing about Christmas that year and in succeeding years.
For each Christmas, I followed the tradition --one year sending a group of mentally handicapped youngsters to a hockey game, another year a check to a pair of elderly brothers whose home had burned to the ground the week before Christmas, and on and on.
The envelope became the highlight of our Christmas. It was always the last thing opened on Christmas morning, and our children, ignoring their new toys, would stand with wide-eyed anticipation as their dad lifted the envelope from the tree to reveal its contents.
As the children grew, the toys gave way to more practical presents, but the envelope never lost its allure. The story doesn't end there. You see, we lost Mike last year due to cancer. When Christmas rolled around, I was still so wrapped in grief that I barely got the tree up. But Christmas Eve found me placing an envelope on the tree, and in the morning it was joined by three more. Each of our children, unbeknownst to the others, had placed an envelope on the tree for their dad.
The tradition has grown and someday will expand even further with our grandchildren standing around the tree with wide-eyed anticipation watching as their fathers take down the envelope. Mike's spirit, like the Christmas spirit, will always be with us.
May we all remember Christ, who is the reason for the season, and the true Christmas spirit this year and always.
God Bless! -- pass this along to those friends and loved ones who you know are the givers who understand the true meaning of Thanksgiving and Christmas.
It's just a small white envelope stuck among the branches of our Christmas tree. No name, no identification, no inscription. It has peeked through the branches of our tree for the past 10 years or so.
It all began because my husband Mike hated Christmas--oh, not the true meaning of Christmas, but the commercial aspects of it -- the overspending, the frantic running around at the last minute to get a tie for Uncle Harry and the dusting powder for Grandma --the gifts given in desperation because you couldn't think of anything else.
Knowing he felt this way, I decided one year to bypass the usual shirts, sweaters, ties, and so forth. I reached for something special just for Mike. The inspiration came in an unusual way. Our son Kevin, who was 12 that year, was wrestling at the junior level at the school he attended.
Shortly before Christmas, there was a non-league match against a team sponsored by an inner-city church. These youngsters, dressed in sneakers so ragged that shoestrings seemed to be the only thing holding them together, presented a sharp contrast to our boys in their spiffy blue and gold uniforms and sparkling new wrestling shoes.
As the match began, I was alarmed to see that the other team was wrestling without headgear, a kind of light helmet designed to protect a wrestler's ears. It was a luxury the ragtag team obviously could not afford.
Well, we ended up walloping them. We took every weight class. And as each of their boys got up from the mat, he swaggered around in his tatters with false bravado, a kind of street pride that couldn't acknowledge defeat.
Mike, seated beside me, shook his head sadly, 'I wish just one of them could have won,' he said. 'They have a lot of potential, but losing like this could take the heart right out of them.' Mike loved kids -- all kids -- and he knew them, having coached little league football, baseball, and lacrosse.
That's when the idea for his present came. That afternoon, I went to a local sporting goods store and bought an assortment of wrestling headgear and shoes and sent them anonymously to the inner-city church.
On Christmas Eve, I placed the envelope on the tree, the note inside telling Mike what I had done and that this was his gift from me. His smile was the brightest thing about Christmas that year and in succeeding years.
For each Christmas, I followed the tradition --one year sending a group of mentally handicapped youngsters to a hockey game, another year a check to a pair of elderly brothers whose home had burned to the ground the week before Christmas, and on and on.
The envelope became the highlight of our Christmas. It was always the last thing opened on Christmas morning, and our children, ignoring their new toys, would stand with wide-eyed anticipation as their dad lifted the envelope from the tree to reveal its contents.
As the children grew, the toys gave way to more practical presents, but the envelope never lost its allure. The story doesn't end there. You see, we lost Mike last year due to cancer. When Christmas rolled around, I was still so wrapped in grief that I barely got the tree up. But Christmas Eve found me placing an envelope on the tree, and in the morning it was joined by three more. Each of our children, unbeknownst to the others, had placed an envelope on the tree for their dad.
The tradition has grown and someday will expand even further with our grandchildren standing around the tree with wide-eyed anticipation watching as their fathers take down the envelope. Mike's spirit, like the Christmas spirit, will always be with us.
May we all remember Christ, who is the reason for the season, and the true Christmas spirit this year and always.
God Bless! -- pass this along to those friends and loved ones who you know are the givers who understand the true meaning of Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Santa Breakfast
SGC will be joining the Knights of Columbus and their Pancake Breakfast with Santa once again! Come for the delicious breakfast and have your list ready for Santa as he will be making a jolly appearance after all morning masses December 21. There will be cookie decorating and Christmas coloring available for the kids. SGC will also be selling holiday craft kits for the children to enjoy and create at home. Proceeds from this sale will be used to donate items needed for the new cry room.
We will need cookie bakers, frosting/sprinkle donations, workers to help decorate and set up the hall Saturday and workers to help after the morning masses. Please take some time to look through the needs for the event and let me know how you can help. I hope you can all make it as my kids have enjoyed this event each year. Please contact me by phone at 913-393-5443 or email kelly@margheim.com if you have questions or would like to volunteer. Thanks again so much! I am amazed at how we shine and are successful when we all work together. Happy Holidays! ~Kelly
Sugar Cookie Donations
Please bake or buy 2 dozen sugar cookies (not frosted or decorated) and bring them to the church on Saturday, December 20. The time will be announced soon. I will need 12 volunteers for this job!
Frosting & Food Coloring
We will need 1 set of food coloring & 14 tubs of white frosting!!!
Sprinkles/Toppings
We will need the following sprinkles/toppings: red hots, mini m&m's, mini chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, & various sprinkles.
Additional Items Needed
200 Craft Sticks, 200 small paper plates & 200 small bathroom cups
Saturday Volunteers:
Help is needed for setting up and decorating the area Saturday afternoon. The time will be announced soon. We basically need the Christmas tree up and the cookie decorating/craft selling area set up. We will also be bagging up the crafts that afternoon. The more people we have to set up, the sooner we will finish. I would love to have 6-8 people helping Saturday afternoon so it wouldn't take long at all. Thanks!
Sunday Morning Masses: We will need 4-5 people total after each mass to help sell the craft bags and help the kids with the cookie decorating at the other table. Please let me know which mass you are able to volunteer your time. 913-393-5443 or kelly@margheim.com
Thank you!
I'm looking forward to another fun and successful event!
We will need cookie bakers, frosting/sprinkle donations, workers to help decorate and set up the hall Saturday and workers to help after the morning masses. Please take some time to look through the needs for the event and let me know how you can help. I hope you can all make it as my kids have enjoyed this event each year. Please contact me by phone at 913-393-5443 or email kelly@margheim.com if you have questions or would like to volunteer. Thanks again so much! I am amazed at how we shine and are successful when we all work together. Happy Holidays! ~Kelly
Sugar Cookie Donations
Please bake or buy 2 dozen sugar cookies (not frosted or decorated) and bring them to the church on Saturday, December 20. The time will be announced soon. I will need 12 volunteers for this job!
Frosting & Food Coloring
We will need 1 set of food coloring & 14 tubs of white frosting!!!
Sprinkles/Toppings
We will need the following sprinkles/toppings: red hots, mini m&m's, mini chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, & various sprinkles.
Additional Items Needed
200 Craft Sticks, 200 small paper plates & 200 small bathroom cups
Saturday Volunteers:
Help is needed for setting up and decorating the area Saturday afternoon. The time will be announced soon. We basically need the Christmas tree up and the cookie decorating/craft selling area set up. We will also be bagging up the crafts that afternoon. The more people we have to set up, the sooner we will finish. I would love to have 6-8 people helping Saturday afternoon so it wouldn't take long at all. Thanks!
Sunday Morning Masses: We will need 4-5 people total after each mass to help sell the craft bags and help the kids with the cookie decorating at the other table. Please let me know which mass you are able to volunteer your time. 913-393-5443 or kelly@margheim.com
Thank you!
I'm looking forward to another fun and successful event!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Something to check out
"This year, Bass Pro Shops stores will feature "Santa's Wonderland", a 3500 square foot magical village for the kids comprised of both animated and live elves, Lionel and Bachmann old-time model trains area, Fisher Price remote control cars, a Red Ryder laser arcade, a Nerf soft gun range and activity tables where you can write a letter to Santa, color and do fun crafts every weekend and it's absolutely FREE. Santa will also be in residence there throughout the season. The pic with Santa is free and they take it for you - good background too.
Crafts and Ornaments -
Dec 6 &7: Reindeer Hat
Dec 13 &14: Candy Cane Reindeer
Dec 20 & 21: Cookie Decoratoring
Crafts and Ornaments -
Dec 6 &7: Reindeer Hat
Dec 13 &14: Candy Cane Reindeer
Dec 20 & 21: Cookie Decoratoring
Monday, December 1, 2008
St. Theresa's Prayer
Saint Theresa is known as the Saint of the Little Ways. Meaning she believed in doing the little things in life well and with great love. She is also the patron Saint of flower growers and florists. She is represented by roses.
St. Theresa's Prayer:
May today there be peace within. May you trust that
you are exactly where you are meant to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are
born of faith. May you use those gifts that you have
received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.
May you be content. Let this presence settle into your bones,
and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.
St. Theresa's Prayer:
May today there be peace within. May you trust that
you are exactly where you are meant to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are
born of faith. May you use those gifts that you have
received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.
May you be content. Let this presence settle into your bones,
and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.
Monday, November 17, 2008
A success
Thanks to all of you who participated in the bake sale over the weekend and to all that purchased items as well. It was a huge success and it wouldn't have been possible without the help of all of you!
Thanks so much!
Thanks so much!
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Spiritual Saturdays
Join us for our first book study! We will be reading The Love Dare by Stephen and Alex Kindrick. The book is a 40 day daily devotional to renew and strengthen your marriage through Christ’s definition of love. Each day has a short reading, a reflection, and a “dare”. This devotional works alone or as a couple.
Our first Spiritual Saturday meeting will be Saturday, December 5 at the Starbucks inside Target by Oak Park Mall. We will begin promptly at 8 and finish by 9. I am a week into the book and find it thrilling. I plan on finishing it before Christmas and giving it to my husband as a gift. The book can be purchased at www.Amazon.com or Sam’s Club for an easy eight bucks. If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I hope to see you there!
Jennie Punswick
jenniepuns@gmail.com
913.227-0244
Our first Spiritual Saturday meeting will be Saturday, December 5 at the Starbucks inside Target by Oak Park Mall. We will begin promptly at 8 and finish by 9. I am a week into the book and find it thrilling. I plan on finishing it before Christmas and giving it to my husband as a gift. The book can be purchased at www.Amazon.com or Sam’s Club for an easy eight bucks. If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I hope to see you there!
Jennie Punswick
jenniepuns@gmail.com
913.227-0244
Monday, November 10, 2008
Where to go...
Now that winter seems to be here...let's share all of the places in the area where it's good to go to play inside.
I have a few listed on this page below....reply/comment to this so I can add some more.
I have a few listed on this page below....reply/comment to this so I can add some more.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Upcoming Fundraiser
Help Wanted!
Pull out those aprons and find your favorite recipes, ladies. Our fall bake sale, a super fundraiser for SGC, will be held November 15 and 16. Remember, a large portion of our profit from the bake sale is donated to Holy Spirit families in need of help. The more we bake, the more we can sell, the more we can give to our needy parishioners. We are needing more volunteers to bake and work for 10-15 minutes after Mass.
Bakers
It would be great if everyone could donate their baking skills to the cause. Each member is asked to bake and donate 3-4 items for the sale. Examples of such items are a batch of cookies, a loaf of bread or sweet bread, a pie, 20-24 cupcakes, or a full cake. Please remember though that a batch of cookies is 1 item for the sale regardless of how you split them up. Please have your baked goods to the church on Saturday, November 15, between 3:30 and 4:00 pm so they can be priced before the 5:00 Mass. If you cannot drop off your baked goods during that time, please get them to a friend who can do it for you. You may even want to write your recipes on note cards along with your baked items, but that is not necessary. For those of you that are wondering, baked items from a box are great, too! :)
More bakers are needed so please let Kelly Margheim know if you can help via phone at 913-393-5443 or email kelly@margheim.com
Please contact Kelly if you are available to help price the baked goods starting at 3:30 Saturday.
Pull out those aprons and find your favorite recipes, ladies. Our fall bake sale, a super fundraiser for SGC, will be held November 15 and 16. Remember, a large portion of our profit from the bake sale is donated to Holy Spirit families in need of help. The more we bake, the more we can sell, the more we can give to our needy parishioners. We are needing more volunteers to bake and work for 10-15 minutes after Mass.
Bakers
It would be great if everyone could donate their baking skills to the cause. Each member is asked to bake and donate 3-4 items for the sale. Examples of such items are a batch of cookies, a loaf of bread or sweet bread, a pie, 20-24 cupcakes, or a full cake. Please remember though that a batch of cookies is 1 item for the sale regardless of how you split them up. Please have your baked goods to the church on Saturday, November 15, between 3:30 and 4:00 pm so they can be priced before the 5:00 Mass. If you cannot drop off your baked goods during that time, please get them to a friend who can do it for you. You may even want to write your recipes on note cards along with your baked items, but that is not necessary. For those of you that are wondering, baked items from a box are great, too! :)
More bakers are needed so please let Kelly Margheim know if you can help via phone at 913-393-5443 or email kelly@margheim.com
Please contact Kelly if you are available to help price the baked goods starting at 3:30 Saturday.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Rediscovering the Beauty of your Marriage
Saturday, November 15th - Couples Workshop - 9am - 3:30
For more info: http://www.kcfamilylife.blogspot.com/
For more info: http://www.kcfamilylife.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Mom's Time Out - Thursday, November 6th
It’s time to get out your bowling outfits for we will be heading to the Legends for a Bowling Night at Pin-Up-Bowl
1859 Village West Pkwy - Suite F101 ,
(BY JAZZ RESTAURANT).
We will meet at 6:15pm at Meghan's.
The cost to bowl and shoes is $8.
Please RSVP to mireland74@hotmail.com or just reply/comment to this post.
1859 Village West Pkwy - Suite F101 ,
(BY JAZZ RESTAURANT).
We will meet at 6:15pm at Meghan's.
The cost to bowl and shoes is $8.
Please RSVP to mireland74@hotmail.com or just reply/comment to this post.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
A fun time was had at the family activity today at the Halloween Family Concert/Festival at JCCC Carlsen Center. The kids enjoyed eating lots of cookies, punch, getting their faces painted and watching some clowns juggling. The kids were great sitting through the performance knowing they would be getting a treat bag at the end.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Delmar Gardens Visit
Delmar Gardens is a retirement community located at 9701 Monrovia just West of Oak Park Mall. Many have expressed the desire to find some kind of community service that our children can share in. What better way than to share the smiles and joy that they exude with the residents? The activities director at Delmar Gardens was very excited when we contacted them about bringing ourselves and our little ones in for visits. We plan on visiting the 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 4:30-5:00. (Today we will be going.) Please contact Kim Hudson at leeandkim@everestkc.net if you would like to join her in this activity or reply to this post.
Love and Logic Parenting
Finishing the Race…and Enjoying It at the Same Time
Have you ever met a "sprinter parent"? Like athletes competing for the gold in a fifty-yard dash, they throw every erg of their energy into trying to deal with each instance of misbehavior. Determined to raise great kids, they spend almost every moment trying to correct their youngsters' behavior.
Here's the problem: Parenting is a marathon…not a 50-yard dash! Those who start the journey as sprinters quickly run out of energy, get frustrated, and view parenting as painful.
"Marathon parents" know how to pick their battles. Because they know that parenting is a life-long task, they ask the following questions when they deal with misbehavior:
Is this behavior dangerous in any way?
If my child continued to do this for his entire life, would it really be a problem?
Is this behavior a chronic problem?
Is this a battle I can win right now without first getting support or ideas from others?
If the answer to these questions is "No," wise parents give themselves permission to rest, relax and reflect. By doing so, they preserve the energy needed to address problems with definite "Yes" answers. In our fun little book, Love and Logicisms, we provide 100 short parenting truths that help us determine the difference between the battles that must be won and those that don't need to be. Knowing the difference gives us the wisdom to finish the race…and enjoy it at the same time.
Thanks for reading!
Dr. Charles Fay
Have you ever met a "sprinter parent"? Like athletes competing for the gold in a fifty-yard dash, they throw every erg of their energy into trying to deal with each instance of misbehavior. Determined to raise great kids, they spend almost every moment trying to correct their youngsters' behavior.
Here's the problem: Parenting is a marathon…not a 50-yard dash! Those who start the journey as sprinters quickly run out of energy, get frustrated, and view parenting as painful.
"Marathon parents" know how to pick their battles. Because they know that parenting is a life-long task, they ask the following questions when they deal with misbehavior:
Is this behavior dangerous in any way?
If my child continued to do this for his entire life, would it really be a problem?
Is this behavior a chronic problem?
Is this a battle I can win right now without first getting support or ideas from others?
If the answer to these questions is "No," wise parents give themselves permission to rest, relax and reflect. By doing so, they preserve the energy needed to address problems with definite "Yes" answers. In our fun little book, Love and Logicisms, we provide 100 short parenting truths that help us determine the difference between the battles that must be won and those that don't need to be. Knowing the difference gives us the wisdom to finish the race…and enjoy it at the same time.
Thanks for reading!
Dr. Charles Fay
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Invisible Mother......
It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store.
Inside I'm thinking, 'Can't you see I'm on the phone?'
Obviously, not.
No one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all.
I'm invisible. The invisible Mom. Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this?
Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, 'What time is it?' I'm a satellite guide to answer, 'What number is the Disney Channel?' I'm a car to order, 'Right around 5:30, please.'
I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated sum a cum laude - but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going; she's going; she is gone!
One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England ..
A friend had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in.
I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself.
I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, 'I brought you this.'
It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe ..
I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription:
'To My Dear Friend, with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees.'
In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work:
No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names.
These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished.
They made great sacrifices and expected no credit.
The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.
A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, 'Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it.' And the workman replied, 'Because God sees'
I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place.
It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, 'I see you. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become.'
At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a disease that is erasing my life.
It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my strong, stubborn pride.
I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on.
The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.
When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, 'My Mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table.' That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, to add, 'you're going to love it there.'
As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right.
And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women.
Great Job, MOM!
Hope this encourages you when the going gets tough as it sometimes does.
We never know what our finished products will turn out to be because of our perseverance.
Inside I'm thinking, 'Can't you see I'm on the phone?'
Obviously, not.
No one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all.
I'm invisible. The invisible Mom. Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this?
Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, 'What time is it?' I'm a satellite guide to answer, 'What number is the Disney Channel?' I'm a car to order, 'Right around 5:30, please.'
I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated sum a cum laude - but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going; she's going; she is gone!
One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England ..
A friend had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in.
I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself.
I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, 'I brought you this.'
It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe ..
I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription:
'To My Dear Friend, with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees.'
In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work:
No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names.
These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished.
They made great sacrifices and expected no credit.
The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.
A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, 'Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it.' And the workman replied, 'Because God sees'
I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place.
It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, 'I see you. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become.'
At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a disease that is erasing my life.
It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my strong, stubborn pride.
I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on.
The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.
When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, 'My Mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table.' That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, to add, 'you're going to love it there.'
As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right.
And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women.
Great Job, MOM!
Hope this encourages you when the going gets tough as it sometimes does.
We never know what our finished products will turn out to be because of our perseverance.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Feast Day of St. Gerard - October 16, 2008
I thought you would all like to read the story of St. Gerard and have some of the prayers. The power of his prayers are really great!
Have a wonderful Friday. Your friend,
Jeanine Conrady
Saint Gerard's Story
Saint Gerard Majella, the "Patron Saint of Motherhood," was born in 1726 in a small town in the south of Italy called Muro. Gerard was devoted to his widowed mother and he also devoted his life to God and helping others. His selfless help to others in various circumstances endeared him to all sorts of people. He entered the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer in 1749 and became a lay brother. He was a model of obedience and possesed extraordinary wisdom. He spent his life dedicated to helping the needy and the poor, being poor himself and having an understanding of the sorrows of the needy. He often gave away his earnings and his own food to the poor and those that came to him never left empty-handed. Sometimes how the food or money came to be there was known only to God and to Gerard. He was also known to have mystical abilities such as powers of prophecy, healing, bilocations, the reading of consciences, and so forth. He even predicted the day and hour of his own death. During his short life he helped many and performed many miracles. It seems that God had given him, in particular, the special power to help mothers in need. In life and since his death, he has helped so many women who have prayed to him during labor that he earned the nickname the "Saint of Happy Deliveries." Many mothers from all over the world have even named their child Gerard after him in gratitude, and have adopted him as their patron in the joys and fears of childbirth.Saint Gerard had a short stay here on earth dying in 1755 at the age of twenty-nine from tuberculosis, but he left a legacy of hope and faith to God that keeps spreading by word of mouth from those familiar with his life story and by those just discovering his miracles.
Prayers to Saint Gerard Prayer for Motherhood
O good St Gerard, powerful intercessor before God and wonder worker of our day, confidently I call upon you and seek your aid. On Earth you always fulfilled God's designs, help me now to do the holy will of God. Implore the Master of Life, from whom all paternity proceeds, to render me fruitful in offspring, that I may raise up children to God in this life, and in the world to come, heirs to the Kingdom of His Glory.Amen.
Prayer for a Safe Delivery
O great Saint Gerard, beloved servant of Jesus Christ, perfect imitator of your meek and humble Savior, and devoted child of Mother of God, enkindle within my heart one spark of that heavenly fire of charity which glowed in your heart and made you an angel of love.O glorious Saint Gerard, because when falsely accused of crime, you did bear, like your Divine Master, without murmur or complaint, the calumnies of wicked men, you have been raised up by God as the patron and protector of expectant mothers.Preserve me from danger and from the excessive pains accompanying childbirth, and shield the child which I now carry, that it may see the light of day and receive the purifying and life-giving waters of baptism through Jesus Christ our Lord.Amen.
Prayer in Thanks of a Safe Delivery
Good Saint Gerard, patron of mothers, assist me in thanking God for the great gift of motherhood. During the months of my waiting, I learned to call upon you and placed the safety of my child and myself under your powerful protection. The great lesson of your trust in God sustained me; your slogan, "God will provide," became my hope and consolation. I thank God for my child and for motherhood. Help me to prize the great treasure of motherhood and obtain for me the grace to raise my child as a child of God.Amen.
Prayer for a Special Favor
O Most Blessed Trinity, I your unworthy creature, thank you for all the gifts and privileges which you have granted to Saint Gerard, especially for those virtues with which you have adorned him on earth and the glory which you impart to him in heaven.Accomplish your work, O Lord, for the greater glory of the Holy Church.Glorify him before men and women and through his merits, in union with those of Jesus and Mary, grant me the grace for which I ask …(mention your request)And you, my powerful intercessor St. Gerard, always so ready to help those who have recourse to you, pray also for me.Prostrate yourself before the throne of Divine Mercy and please do not leave it without being heard.To you I confide this important and urgent affair.Graciously take my cause in hand and let me not end this novena without having experienced in some way the effects of your intercession.
Amen.
Prayer for a sick child
Most beloved Saint Gerard, who, like the Savior, loved children and by your prayers freed many from disease and even death, listen to us who are pleading for our sick child. We thank God for the great gift of our son/daughter and ask God to restore our child to health if such be the holy will. This favor we beg of you through your love for all children and mothers.
Amen
Have a wonderful Friday. Your friend,
Jeanine Conrady
Saint Gerard's Story
Saint Gerard Majella, the "Patron Saint of Motherhood," was born in 1726 in a small town in the south of Italy called Muro. Gerard was devoted to his widowed mother and he also devoted his life to God and helping others. His selfless help to others in various circumstances endeared him to all sorts of people. He entered the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer in 1749 and became a lay brother. He was a model of obedience and possesed extraordinary wisdom. He spent his life dedicated to helping the needy and the poor, being poor himself and having an understanding of the sorrows of the needy. He often gave away his earnings and his own food to the poor and those that came to him never left empty-handed. Sometimes how the food or money came to be there was known only to God and to Gerard. He was also known to have mystical abilities such as powers of prophecy, healing, bilocations, the reading of consciences, and so forth. He even predicted the day and hour of his own death. During his short life he helped many and performed many miracles. It seems that God had given him, in particular, the special power to help mothers in need. In life and since his death, he has helped so many women who have prayed to him during labor that he earned the nickname the "Saint of Happy Deliveries." Many mothers from all over the world have even named their child Gerard after him in gratitude, and have adopted him as their patron in the joys and fears of childbirth.Saint Gerard had a short stay here on earth dying in 1755 at the age of twenty-nine from tuberculosis, but he left a legacy of hope and faith to God that keeps spreading by word of mouth from those familiar with his life story and by those just discovering his miracles.
Prayers to Saint Gerard Prayer for Motherhood
O good St Gerard, powerful intercessor before God and wonder worker of our day, confidently I call upon you and seek your aid. On Earth you always fulfilled God's designs, help me now to do the holy will of God. Implore the Master of Life, from whom all paternity proceeds, to render me fruitful in offspring, that I may raise up children to God in this life, and in the world to come, heirs to the Kingdom of His Glory.Amen.
Prayer for a Safe Delivery
O great Saint Gerard, beloved servant of Jesus Christ, perfect imitator of your meek and humble Savior, and devoted child of Mother of God, enkindle within my heart one spark of that heavenly fire of charity which glowed in your heart and made you an angel of love.O glorious Saint Gerard, because when falsely accused of crime, you did bear, like your Divine Master, without murmur or complaint, the calumnies of wicked men, you have been raised up by God as the patron and protector of expectant mothers.Preserve me from danger and from the excessive pains accompanying childbirth, and shield the child which I now carry, that it may see the light of day and receive the purifying and life-giving waters of baptism through Jesus Christ our Lord.Amen.
Prayer in Thanks of a Safe Delivery
Good Saint Gerard, patron of mothers, assist me in thanking God for the great gift of motherhood. During the months of my waiting, I learned to call upon you and placed the safety of my child and myself under your powerful protection. The great lesson of your trust in God sustained me; your slogan, "God will provide," became my hope and consolation. I thank God for my child and for motherhood. Help me to prize the great treasure of motherhood and obtain for me the grace to raise my child as a child of God.Amen.
Prayer for a Special Favor
O Most Blessed Trinity, I your unworthy creature, thank you for all the gifts and privileges which you have granted to Saint Gerard, especially for those virtues with which you have adorned him on earth and the glory which you impart to him in heaven.Accomplish your work, O Lord, for the greater glory of the Holy Church.Glorify him before men and women and through his merits, in union with those of Jesus and Mary, grant me the grace for which I ask …(mention your request)And you, my powerful intercessor St. Gerard, always so ready to help those who have recourse to you, pray also for me.Prostrate yourself before the throne of Divine Mercy and please do not leave it without being heard.To you I confide this important and urgent affair.Graciously take my cause in hand and let me not end this novena without having experienced in some way the effects of your intercession.
Amen.
Prayer for a sick child
Most beloved Saint Gerard, who, like the Savior, loved children and by your prayers freed many from disease and even death, listen to us who are pleading for our sick child. We thank God for the great gift of our son/daughter and ask God to restore our child to health if such be the holy will. This favor we beg of you through your love for all children and mothers.
Amen
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Fun filled day!
Not only did we have playgroup in the morning, but we also had a great 
Family Activity later that evening.Fun time was had by all who met up at the Ceramic Cafe. Lots of fun getting our hands painted before putting on the plates. It's obvious we have many talented artists among us! Reminder: You can pick up your masterpieces anytime after 2pm on Saturday.
The kids and even the adults enjoyed the yummy treats and apples with carmel. And that wasn't all - many met at McDonald's later.
The kids and even the adults enjoyed the yummy treats and apples with carmel. And that wasn't all - many met at McDonald's later.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Let's not forget to PUSH
Three things in life that, once gone, never come back
- Time / Words / Opportunity
Three things in life that are most valuable
- Love / Self-confidence / Friends
Three things in life that are never certain
- Dreams / Success / Fortune
Three things that make a man/woman
- Hard work / Sincerity / Commitment
Three things in life that can destroy a man/woman
- Alcohol / Pride / Anger
Three things in life that, once lost, hard to build-up
- Respect / Trust / Friendship
P-----pray
U----until
S-----something
H----happens
- Time / Words / Opportunity
Three things in life that are most valuable
- Love / Self-confidence / Friends
Three things in life that are never certain
- Dreams / Success / Fortune
Three things that make a man/woman
- Hard work / Sincerity / Commitment
Three things in life that can destroy a man/woman
- Alcohol / Pride / Anger
Three things in life that, once lost, hard to build-up
- Respect / Trust / Friendship
P-----pray
U----until
S-----something
H----happens
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Play with me
I tried to teach my child with books,
he gave me only puzzled looks.
I tried to teach my child with words,
they passed him by often unheard.
Despairingly, I turned aside,
How shall I teach this child I cried?
Into my hands he put the key - - "Come,"
he said, "Play with me"
he gave me only puzzled looks.
I tried to teach my child with words,
they passed him by often unheard.
Despairingly, I turned aside,
How shall I teach this child I cried?
Into my hands he put the key - - "Come,"
he said, "Play with me"
Friday, August 29, 2008
John 3:16
Encouraging Word of the day from K-Love
Friday 8/29/2008
For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.
~ John 3:16, NLT
I just had to laugh when I read this. It reminded me of when Alyssa received a necklace for a gift and on the back it had John 3:16. She looked at me with a sad look, saying,"If this gift is for me, then why does it have John's name on it?" Guess she forgot (or I didn't explain it well) because just last week she asked me again about it!!!
Friday 8/29/2008
For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.
~ John 3:16, NLT
I just had to laugh when I read this. It reminded me of when Alyssa received a necklace for a gift and on the back it had John 3:16. She looked at me with a sad look, saying,"If this gift is for me, then why does it have John's name on it?" Guess she forgot (or I didn't explain it well) because just last week she asked me again about it!!!
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Love and Logic
I'm sure many of you have heard of about love and logic before...It's another newsletter that I received and the one I got today was....
Dear Insider's Club Member,
Enjoy this week's article from Jim Fay about doing the right thing even though your kids may not like it.
Have a safe and happy holiday weekend!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Kids Would Never Allow That
I last wrote about a mother who went on strike. She was the one who returned home each day brandishing her book, heading for her room. She'd read until her kids had the house cleaned up. Only then would she cook dinner.
The results were so good that she told her friend, Melissa, about it. "Oh, my," worried Melissa. "My kids would never allow that!"
"WHAT? Her kids would never allow that," I thought. Has Melissa relinquished her parent ticket? Has she turned over family leadership and authority to her kids?
Is it possible that Melissa has bought into the fallacy that a parent's job is to make sure that kids are constantly happy? If so, her kids will grow up to be spoiled and entitled people who are frequently unhappy, believing they are victims whenever they don't get their way.
Parents who set reasonable limits often experience kids who are unhappy in the short term. It is natural for kids to be frustrated when they test limits and don't get their way. But this helps them turn out to be good people who are happy in the long term.
When parents do the right thing, it often feels wrong in the short term—especially when their kids throw a fit. But it usually turns out to be the best thing in the long term.
Thanks for reading!
Jim Fay
Learn more about how to avoid the disaster of entitlement with our book, "From Innocence to Entitlement."
Dear Insider's Club Member,
Enjoy this week's article from Jim Fay about doing the right thing even though your kids may not like it.
Have a safe and happy holiday weekend!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Kids Would Never Allow That
I last wrote about a mother who went on strike. She was the one who returned home each day brandishing her book, heading for her room. She'd read until her kids had the house cleaned up. Only then would she cook dinner.
The results were so good that she told her friend, Melissa, about it. "Oh, my," worried Melissa. "My kids would never allow that!"
"WHAT? Her kids would never allow that," I thought. Has Melissa relinquished her parent ticket? Has she turned over family leadership and authority to her kids?
Is it possible that Melissa has bought into the fallacy that a parent's job is to make sure that kids are constantly happy? If so, her kids will grow up to be spoiled and entitled people who are frequently unhappy, believing they are victims whenever they don't get their way.
Parents who set reasonable limits often experience kids who are unhappy in the short term. It is natural for kids to be frustrated when they test limits and don't get their way. But this helps them turn out to be good people who are happy in the long term.
When parents do the right thing, it often feels wrong in the short term—especially when their kids throw a fit. But it usually turns out to be the best thing in the long term.
Thanks for reading!
Jim Fay
Learn more about how to avoid the disaster of entitlement with our book, "From Innocence to Entitlement."
Monday, August 25, 2008
Playgroup at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park
Today was the last day this year to meet as a big group. My kids stopped long enough for me to take their photo AND even hugged!! The playgroups will be starting in two weeks in smaller groups. We usually meet at 9:30 on Monday mornings. If you are interested in joining a playgroup, then post a comment here and we can get you added to the list. Also, if that time or day doesn't work for your schedule, and you'd be interested, then post a comment on what day or time would work better for you and maybe we'll have enough interested to do another one!
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Antioch Park
Yesterday we met at Antioch park for the kids to play and have a picnic. Was a beautiful day and we were able to enjoy the company of adults while the kids played. It was the first time I made it to the park and was suprised how nice it was. Several different playground areas and even a little town of houses that the kids enjoyed playing in. The jail seemed to be fun for my son to play in even though he said that he was a cop!
Thursday, August 21, 2008
FAMILY
I ran into a stranger as he passed by, "Oh, excuse me please," was my reply. He said, "Please excuse me too; I wasn't watching for you." We were very polite, this stranger and I. We went on our way and we said goodbye.
But at home a different story is told, How we treat our loved ones, young and old. Later that day, cooking the evening meal,My son stood beside me very still. When I turned, I nearly knocked him down. "Move out of the way," I said with a frown. He walked away, his little heart broken. I didn't realize how harshly I'd spoken.
While I lay awake in bed, God's still small voice came to me and said, "While dealing with a stranger, common courtesy you use, but the family you love, you seem to abuse. Go and look on the kitchen floor, You'll find some flowers there by the door. Those are the flowers he brought for you. He picked them himself: pink, yellow and blue. He stood very quietly not to spoil the surprise, you never saw the tears that filled his little eyes." By this time, I felt very small, And now my tears began to fall. I quietly went and knelt by his bed; "Wake up, little one, wake up," I said. "Are these the flowers you picked for me?" He smiled, "I found 'em, out by the tree. I picked 'em because they're pretty like you. I knew you'd like 'em, especially the blue." I said, "Son, I'm very sorry for the way I acted today; I shouldn't have yelled at you that way." He said, "Oh, Mom, that's okay. I love you anyway." I said, "Son, I love you too, and I do like the flowers, especially the blue."
Are you aware that if we died tomorrow, the company that we are working for could easily replace us in a matter of days. But the family we left behind will feel the loss for the rest of their lives. And come to think of it, we pour ourselves more into work than into our own family, an unwise investment indeed, don't you think? So what is behind the story? Do you know what the word FAMILY means?
FAMILY = (F)A THER (A)ND (M)OTHER (I) (L)OVE (Y)OU
But at home a different story is told, How we treat our loved ones, young and old. Later that day, cooking the evening meal,My son stood beside me very still. When I turned, I nearly knocked him down. "Move out of the way," I said with a frown. He walked away, his little heart broken. I didn't realize how harshly I'd spoken.
While I lay awake in bed, God's still small voice came to me and said, "While dealing with a stranger, common courtesy you use, but the family you love, you seem to abuse. Go and look on the kitchen floor, You'll find some flowers there by the door. Those are the flowers he brought for you. He picked them himself: pink, yellow and blue. He stood very quietly not to spoil the surprise, you never saw the tears that filled his little eyes." By this time, I felt very small, And now my tears began to fall. I quietly went and knelt by his bed; "Wake up, little one, wake up," I said. "Are these the flowers you picked for me?" He smiled, "I found 'em, out by the tree. I picked 'em because they're pretty like you. I knew you'd like 'em, especially the blue." I said, "Son, I'm very sorry for the way I acted today; I shouldn't have yelled at you that way." He said, "Oh, Mom, that's okay. I love you anyway." I said, "Son, I love you too, and I do like the flowers, especially the blue."
Are you aware that if we died tomorrow, the company that we are working for could easily replace us in a matter of days. But the family we left behind will feel the loss for the rest of their lives. And come to think of it, we pour ourselves more into work than into our own family, an unwise investment indeed, don't you think? So what is behind the story? Do you know what the word FAMILY means?
FAMILY = (F)A THER (A)ND (M)OTHER (I) (L)OVE (Y)OU
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Afraid to be alone....
So some follow-up from the bed time battle....(from August 13th).
After deciding that we would take her to Chuck E Cheese or one of those inflatable indoor gyms if she's able to stay in her room all night - or basically to keep from waking her parents up every night. She's been doing great not waking us up at night, but now has either been waking up her younger brother to convince him to go sleep in her room with her (who knows what time of the night that happens) or the other morning I found her asleep in her brother's bed! Well I guess I've been getting some uninterrupted sleep and I shouldn't complain. I haven't heard any complaints from her brother yet.
I think the main reason she's been doing this is that she is afraid to be alone. If she needs to go upstairs or downstairs for something (regardless of the time of day), she always cries for someone to come with her. Again, other than the crying being annoying, she mainly convinces her younger brother to go - sometimes after lots of crying and shouting.....now that's not so good.
Not sure if this is normal (whatever "normal" means) for someone her age - she will be 6 in just a few weeks? Anyone else have kids that are afraid to be alone?
After deciding that we would take her to Chuck E Cheese or one of those inflatable indoor gyms if she's able to stay in her room all night - or basically to keep from waking her parents up every night. She's been doing great not waking us up at night, but now has either been waking up her younger brother to convince him to go sleep in her room with her (who knows what time of the night that happens) or the other morning I found her asleep in her brother's bed! Well I guess I've been getting some uninterrupted sleep and I shouldn't complain. I haven't heard any complaints from her brother yet.
I think the main reason she's been doing this is that she is afraid to be alone. If she needs to go upstairs or downstairs for something (regardless of the time of day), she always cries for someone to come with her. Again, other than the crying being annoying, she mainly convinces her younger brother to go - sometimes after lots of crying and shouting.....now that's not so good.
Not sure if this is normal (whatever "normal" means) for someone her age - she will be 6 in just a few weeks? Anyone else have kids that are afraid to be alone?
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Newsletters via Email
Sometimes I sign up for free e-mail newsletters and end up getting bombarded with more stuff to delete from my inbox...but this is one newsletter I signed up for that I've really been enjoying the last few weeks. Here's from the newsletter I received today....if you like it you can sign up too.
The official newsletter of Marriage Partnership magazine
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Welcome
I love making lists. Right now, there are about four in various states of completeness littered across my desk. And I know there are at least two more sitting on my bedside table and remnants of three others floating around my purse. Shopping lists, to-do lists, pro/con lists; I love them all. It's strangely satisfying to see items listed so neatly on a sheet of paper. Oftentimes, those tidy bullet points help me get my thoughts in order in a way few other things could.
Still, I was fascinated by the idea that a list could literally save someone's marriage, which is what one wife claims in this week's featured article. Having decided to leave her husband, Becky Zerbe was challenged to make an unusual list before walking out. Once the list was complete, it gave Becky a new outlook on her relationship with her husband … and with God. To read the story.... http://www.christianitytoday.com/mp/2005/003/7.32.html
Depending on which so-called "season of marriage" you currently inhabit, your outlook on wedded bliss probably varies from that of other couples. If you have a "summer" marriage, full of happiness and satisfaction, it's easy to neglect your relationship, rather than tending to its health. You'll want to be sure to read our "24/7" column, which shares how to strengthen your connection and reap some beautiful rewards. To view the 24/7 column.... http://www.christianitytoday.com/mp/2006/002/16.16.html
MarriagePartnership.com is a great place for more articles and marriage resources. Stop by for tips that may prove to be surprisingly life-changing—no matter your season of marriage. To read more visit.......
http://www.christianitytoday.com/marriage
Blessings,
Elizabeth Diffin
for Marriage Partnership
The official newsletter of Marriage Partnership magazine
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Welcome
I love making lists. Right now, there are about four in various states of completeness littered across my desk. And I know there are at least two more sitting on my bedside table and remnants of three others floating around my purse. Shopping lists, to-do lists, pro/con lists; I love them all. It's strangely satisfying to see items listed so neatly on a sheet of paper. Oftentimes, those tidy bullet points help me get my thoughts in order in a way few other things could.
Still, I was fascinated by the idea that a list could literally save someone's marriage, which is what one wife claims in this week's featured article. Having decided to leave her husband, Becky Zerbe was challenged to make an unusual list before walking out. Once the list was complete, it gave Becky a new outlook on her relationship with her husband … and with God. To read the story.... http://www.christianitytoday.com/mp/2005/003/7.32.html
Depending on which so-called "season of marriage" you currently inhabit, your outlook on wedded bliss probably varies from that of other couples. If you have a "summer" marriage, full of happiness and satisfaction, it's easy to neglect your relationship, rather than tending to its health. You'll want to be sure to read our "24/7" column, which shares how to strengthen your connection and reap some beautiful rewards. To view the 24/7 column.... http://www.christianitytoday.com/mp/2006/002/16.16.html
MarriagePartnership.com is a great place for more articles and marriage resources. Stop by for tips that may prove to be surprisingly life-changing—no matter your season of marriage. To read more visit.......
http://www.christianitytoday.com/marriage
Blessings,
Elizabeth Diffin
for Marriage Partnership
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
School starting so soon?
I still can't belive school will be starting soon. My daughter gets to meet her Kindergarten teacher today and her first day is Friday!
Already I am trying to figure out what to do to get her to bed earlier (and to stay in her bed) at night. She can't seem to fall asleep in her own room (so she falls asleep in ours and I carry her up to her room). Usually in the middle of the night she comes to climb back into our bed. I usually take her back up to her room. Sometimes - like this morning at 5:15am - she comes down and asks me to go up to sleep in her room with her. I'm getting tired of this routine and want to change it!! I figure with school starting on Friday I should start a "new Kindergarten routine". I guess I can talk with her to see if she has any ideas about bedtime routine and ways (or incentives) to keep her in bed the entire night. (I "hear" it's good to get kids input in things - so they feel like their opinions matter!)
I would love to hear some suggestions or things you do that may help me decide what I should try!!!
Already I am trying to figure out what to do to get her to bed earlier (and to stay in her bed) at night. She can't seem to fall asleep in her own room (so she falls asleep in ours and I carry her up to her room). Usually in the middle of the night she comes to climb back into our bed. I usually take her back up to her room. Sometimes - like this morning at 5:15am - she comes down and asks me to go up to sleep in her room with her. I'm getting tired of this routine and want to change it!! I figure with school starting on Friday I should start a "new Kindergarten routine". I guess I can talk with her to see if she has any ideas about bedtime routine and ways (or incentives) to keep her in bed the entire night. (I "hear" it's good to get kids input in things - so they feel like their opinions matter!)
I would love to hear some suggestions or things you do that may help me decide what I should try!!!
Inspiration every day
How many of you listen to music on a daily basis?
How many of you listen to 97.3?
http://www.klove.com/
Living in this day and age it seems like everything is trying to compete for our time and attention. We have to stop and think what is ultimately the most important to us and in our daily lives...
I "discovered" this radio station one day and listen to every day now. My mom even listens to it now and it is something that keeps us connected - even though she lives hundreds of miles away. My kids are even singing the words to the songs now!! (How great is that!)
Listening to this radio station seems to help keep me thinking about what's most important in this life!
Give it a try and let me know what you think!!
How many of you listen to 97.3?
http://www.klove.com/
Living in this day and age it seems like everything is trying to compete for our time and attention. We have to stop and think what is ultimately the most important to us and in our daily lives...
I "discovered" this radio station one day and listen to every day now. My mom even listens to it now and it is something that keeps us connected - even though she lives hundreds of miles away. My kids are even singing the words to the songs now!! (How great is that!)
Listening to this radio station seems to help keep me thinking about what's most important in this life!
Give it a try and let me know what you think!!
Friday, August 1, 2008
Children Learn What They Live
If a child lives with criticism,
He learns to condem.
If a child lives with hostility,
He learns to fight.
If a child lives with ridicule,
He learns to be shy.
If a child lives with shame,
He learns to feel guilty.
If a child lives with tolerance,
He learns to be patient.
If a child lives with encouragement,
He learns confidence.
If a child lives with praise,
He learns to appreciate.
If a child lives with fairness,
He learns justice.
If a child lives with security,
He learns to have faith.
If a child lives with approval,
He learns to like himself.
If a child lives with acceptance and friendship,
He learns to find love in the world.
He learns to condem.
If a child lives with hostility,
He learns to fight.
If a child lives with ridicule,
He learns to be shy.
If a child lives with shame,
He learns to feel guilty.
If a child lives with tolerance,
He learns to be patient.
If a child lives with encouragement,
He learns confidence.
If a child lives with praise,
He learns to appreciate.
If a child lives with fairness,
He learns justice.
If a child lives with security,
He learns to have faith.
If a child lives with approval,
He learns to like himself.
If a child lives with acceptance and friendship,
He learns to find love in the world.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
SGC Playgroups
The SGC weekly playgroup meets every Monday morning from 9:30 – 11:00 am. It’s a great time for the kids to meet new friends and for the moms to relax a bit and enjoy some adult conversation. We meet in small groups of 5-6 moms plus their kiddos. Each mom takes a turn at hosting either in her home or at a public place. It’s always a great time for everyone. If you are interested in joining, please respond to this post and you will be contacted. Approximately 16 moms participated the past year!
A Story about St. Gerard
His miraculous apostolate for mothers also began during his lifetime. Once, as he was leaving the home of his friends, the Pirofalo family, one of the daughters called after him that he had forgotten his handkerchief. In a moment of prophetic insight Gerard said: "Keep it. It will be useful to you some day." The handkerchief was treasured as a precious souvenir of Gerard. Years later the girl to whom he had given it was in danger of death in childbirth. She remembered the words of Gerard, and called for the handkerchief. Almost immediately the danger passed and she delivered a healthy child. On another occasion the prayers of Gerard were asked by a mother when both she and her unborn child were in danger. Both she and the child came through the ordeal safely.
Prayer for the True Spirit of Motherhood
Mary, my mother, Join me now in a mother’s prayer that, through the special graces of motherhood, my little child may instruct me in the ways of God: that its innocent eyes may speak to me of the spotless holiness of Jesus;
That its open smile may continually remind me of the great love God has for his creatures;
That its helplessness may teach me the unbounded power of God;
And that its first feeble efforts to speak may tell me of God’s wisdom.
Pray with me now that its complete trust in me may lead me to a like confidence in God, and that its simple affection for me may bring me to a greater love for him.
And so, in all these things, may I grow in a greater appreciation of my holy motherhood, and day by day reflect more faithfully the radiant beauty manifest in your motherhood, which God gave us as the model of all Christian motherhood.
Mother of Mothers,
Pray for me!
That its open smile may continually remind me of the great love God has for his creatures;
That its helplessness may teach me the unbounded power of God;
And that its first feeble efforts to speak may tell me of God’s wisdom.
Pray with me now that its complete trust in me may lead me to a like confidence in God, and that its simple affection for me may bring me to a greater love for him.
And so, in all these things, may I grow in a greater appreciation of my holy motherhood, and day by day reflect more faithfully the radiant beauty manifest in your motherhood, which God gave us as the model of all Christian motherhood.
Mother of Mothers,
Pray for me!
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Let's listen to the one who knows the truth
God has a positive answer:
YOU SAY
GOD SAYS
BIBLE VERSES
You say: 'It's impossible'
God says: All things are possible
(Luke 18:27)
You say: 'I'm too tired'
God says: I will give you rest
Matthew 11:28-30)
You say: 'Nobody really loves me'
God says: I love you
(John 3:1 6 & John 3:34 )
You say: 'I can't go on'
God says: My grace is sufficient
(II Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)
You say: 'I can't figure things out'
God says: I will direct your steps
(Proverbs 3:5- 6)
You say: 'I can't do it'
God says: You can do all things
(Philippians 4:13)
You say: 'I'm not able'
God says: I am able
(II Corinthians 9:8)
You say: 'It's not worth it'
God says: It will be worth it
(Roman 8:28 )
You say: 'I can't forgive myself'
God says: I Forgive you
(I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)
You say: 'I can't manage'
God says: I will supply all your needs
(Philippians 4:19)
You say: 'I'm afraid'
God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear
(II Timothy 1:7)
You say: 'I'm always worried and frustrated'
God says: Cast all your cares on ME
(I Peter 5:7)
You say: 'I'm not smart enough'
God says: I give you wisdom
(I Corinthians 1:30)
You say: 'I feel all alone'
God says: I will never leave you or forsake you
(Hebrews 13:5)
God determines who walks into your life....
YOU SAY
GOD SAYS
BIBLE VERSES
You say: 'It's impossible'
God says: All things are possible
(Luke 18:27)
You say: 'I'm too tired'
God says: I will give you rest
Matthew 11:28-30)
You say: 'Nobody really loves me'
God says: I love you
(John 3:1 6 & John 3:34 )
You say: 'I can't go on'
God says: My grace is sufficient
(II Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)
You say: 'I can't figure things out'
God says: I will direct your steps
(Proverbs 3:5- 6)
You say: 'I can't do it'
God says: You can do all things
(Philippians 4:13)
You say: 'I'm not able'
God says: I am able
(II Corinthians 9:8)
You say: 'It's not worth it'
God says: It will be worth it
(Roman 8:28 )
You say: 'I can't forgive myself'
God says: I Forgive you
(I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)
You say: 'I can't manage'
God says: I will supply all your needs
(Philippians 4:19)
You say: 'I'm afraid'
God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear
(II Timothy 1:7)
You say: 'I'm always worried and frustrated'
God says: Cast all your cares on ME
(I Peter 5:7)
You say: 'I'm not smart enough'
God says: I give you wisdom
(I Corinthians 1:30)
You say: 'I feel all alone'
God says: I will never leave you or forsake you
(Hebrews 13:5)
God determines who walks into your life....
it's up to you to decide who you let walk away,
who you let stay, and who you refuse to let go.
Father, God bless all my friends and family (who include all SGC members) in whatever it is that you know they may need this day! And may their life be full of your peace, prosperity and power as they seek to have a closer relationship with you. Amen.
Watch the power of God work in your life.
If you don't feel like you're having a wonderful day,
Father, God bless all my friends and family (who include all SGC members) in whatever it is that you know they may need this day! And may their life be full of your peace, prosperity and power as they seek to have a closer relationship with you. Amen.
Watch the power of God work in your life.
If you don't feel like you're having a wonderful day,
Pray for it!!
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Fun at the Summer playgroup
Enjoyed several hours at Quivira park on Monday. The kids seemed to have a great time!
Monday, June 30, 2008
Summer memories for our kids
Do you have fond memories of your childhood? What I remember most is the things we would usually do every holiday and the vacations we took as a family. I also remember as a kid we would go to my grandma's house in Michigan in the summer and close by we would be able to go and pick blueberries, strawberries and apples. That was a fun time and I have fond memories of doing that with my cousins.
How many of you would love to take your kids out to pick some berries?
Who knows of any places in the Kansas City area (or less than an hours drive) where we would be able to do so?
It's important for us to create happy and fun memories for our children.
What fond memories do you have?
Let's share our fun memories and some ideas for new ones. They don't have to be expensive to do or involve leaving the house. Creating a weekly "pizza night" or a "movie night" and having popcorn and soda.
How many of you would love to take your kids out to pick some berries?
Who knows of any places in the Kansas City area (or less than an hours drive) where we would be able to do so?
It's important for us to create happy and fun memories for our children.
What fond memories do you have?
Let's share our fun memories and some ideas for new ones. They don't have to be expensive to do or involve leaving the house. Creating a weekly "pizza night" or a "movie night" and having popcorn and soda.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Things aren't always what they seem
Two Traveling Angels
Two traveling angels stopped to spend the night in the home of a wealthy family.
The family was rude and refused to let the angels stay in the mansion's guest room.
Instead the angels were given a small space in the cold basement.
As they made their bed on the hard floor, the older angel saw a hole in the wall and repaired it.
When the younger angel asked why, the older angel replied,
'Things aren't always what they seem.'
The next night the pair came to rest at the house of a very poor, but very hospitable farmer and his wife.
After sharing what little food they had the couple let the angels sleep in their bed where they could have a good night's rest.
When the sun came up the next morning the angels found the farmer and his wife in tears. Their only cow, whose milk had been their sole income, lay dead in the field.
The younger angel was infuriated and asked the older angel how could you have let this happen?
The first man had everything, yet you helped him, she accused.
The second family had little but was willing to share everything, and you let the cow die.
'Things aren't always what they seem,' the older angel replied.
'When we stayed in the basement of the mansion, I noticed there was gold stored in that hole in the wall. Since the owner was so obsessed with greed and unwilling to share his good fortune, I sealed the wall so he wouldn't find it.'
'Then last night as we slept in the farmers bed,the angel of death came for his wife. I gave him the cow instead.
'Things aren't always what they seem.'
Sometimes that is exactly what happens when things
don't turn out the way we think they should. If you have
faith, you just need to trust that every outcome
is always to your advantage. You just might not
know it until some time later.
Some people come into our lives and quickly go....
Some people become a friend and stay awhile, leaving beautiful footprints on our heart and we are never quite the same because we have made a good friend.
Yesterday is history.
Tomorrow a mystery.
Today is a gift.
That's why it's called the present!
I think this is special...live and savor every moment... This is not a dress rehearsal!
Never take away anyone's hope. That may be all they have.
This was from a forwarded email that I thought was a nice reminder to have.
Two traveling angels stopped to spend the night in the home of a wealthy family.
The family was rude and refused to let the angels stay in the mansion's guest room.
Instead the angels were given a small space in the cold basement.
As they made their bed on the hard floor, the older angel saw a hole in the wall and repaired it.
When the younger angel asked why, the older angel replied,
'Things aren't always what they seem.'
The next night the pair came to rest at the house of a very poor, but very hospitable farmer and his wife.
After sharing what little food they had the couple let the angels sleep in their bed where they could have a good night's rest.
When the sun came up the next morning the angels found the farmer and his wife in tears. Their only cow, whose milk had been their sole income, lay dead in the field.
The younger angel was infuriated and asked the older angel how could you have let this happen?
The first man had everything, yet you helped him, she accused.
The second family had little but was willing to share everything, and you let the cow die.
'Things aren't always what they seem,' the older angel replied.
'When we stayed in the basement of the mansion, I noticed there was gold stored in that hole in the wall. Since the owner was so obsessed with greed and unwilling to share his good fortune, I sealed the wall so he wouldn't find it.'
'Then last night as we slept in the farmers bed,the angel of death came for his wife. I gave him the cow instead.
'Things aren't always what they seem.'
Sometimes that is exactly what happens when things
don't turn out the way we think they should. If you have
faith, you just need to trust that every outcome
is always to your advantage. You just might not
know it until some time later.
Some people come into our lives and quickly go....
Some people become a friend and stay awhile, leaving beautiful footprints on our heart and we are never quite the same because we have made a good friend.
Yesterday is history.
Tomorrow a mystery.
Today is a gift.
That's why it's called the present!
I think this is special...live and savor every moment... This is not a dress rehearsal!
Never take away anyone's hope. That may be all they have.
This was from a forwarded email that I thought was a nice reminder to have.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Have you had your "peace" today?
Teach us to make the most of our time, so that we may grow in wisdom.
~ Psalm 90:12, NLT
~ Psalm 90:12, NLT
I saw this in the Sunday comics and I had to laugh. I was just telling someone the other day that we "Moms" need to make sure to take a bigger piece of the pie for ourselves. That piece we make for ourselves can give us PEACE! Even if we have to squeeze it into our day for just a few minutes - I always feel more at peace with myself and with my family. We should also make time to "get away" from everything to do something you want to do at least once a week. Even a 20 minute run or walk outside can do wonders for you physically, mentally and spiritually. Helps you to be more productive and in much better spirits to handle all of the whines and cries we deal with every day. I've found that when I take the time for me I'm much happier which usually makes my kids and husband happier too! So making the time for ourselves doesn't just benefit us but the entire family!
It seems like our excuse for most things is that "I don't have enough time" or "there aren't enough hours in the day". Is that how you feel sometimes (or all of the time) too? This morning I saw the encouraging word of the day (above)....it reminds me that I need to make the time for the things that are important. What matters the most to us in life? What is more important....a clean house or happy kids and yourself? Usually your kids can help you answer that one. One day Alyssa asked me if I felt like Cinderella? I asked her why and she said because I was cleaning all day! :) We really need to listen to our kids - they usually are able to put things into perspective for us!
Do you take the time everyday for yourself?
What do you do to help you relax and "get away from it all"?
Monday, June 23, 2008
Family Activity on June 22nd - T Bones game
On Sunday June 22nd we met at a T-Bones game. The kids enjoyed playing on the playground, rolling down the grassy hill, blowing bubbles and watching some of the game! A few bumps and bruises after being told "don't do that or you'll get hurt" so it was so hard not to say "I told you so" to the kiddies! :) Looking forward to seeing more of the group at the upcoming events.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Why do they call it Summer Vacation?
I hope all of you are enjoying your summers so far. For some it's a time to slow down the pace and relax a little....for others it's busier than during the school year....still not what any of us would really consider a vacation!
I am trying to figure out if I am going to sign up my kids for any activities this summer. I am thinking swimming lessons would be great for both since John will be 4 in about a month and Alyssa will be turning 6 in September.
It was nice meeting up for the Mom's Time Out on Tuesday night. The next Mom's Time Out will be on Tuesday, July 15th at Mi Ranchito (14154 119th) which is a walk from my house but I will miss out on the fun. I will be on a family trip (note - I did not call it a vacation - because it will not be one....vacation's are relaxing times - like to the beach!) to see my parents two brothers and sister and their families. We will be meeting up at a rental home on Lake Michigan. We will also be stopping in Chicago to see my husband's grandma, parents, and two sisters and their families. Will be nice to see everyone since it's been too long. And I will get to see my nieces - twin girls born in November last year - who I haven't seen yet!
Does anyone else have any trips or plans for this summer?
Any fun camps or activities your kiddies are involved in?
I am trying to figure out if I am going to sign up my kids for any activities this summer. I am thinking swimming lessons would be great for both since John will be 4 in about a month and Alyssa will be turning 6 in September.
It was nice meeting up for the Mom's Time Out on Tuesday night. The next Mom's Time Out will be on Tuesday, July 15th at Mi Ranchito (14154 119th) which is a walk from my house but I will miss out on the fun. I will be on a family trip (note - I did not call it a vacation - because it will not be one....vacation's are relaxing times - like to the beach!) to see my parents two brothers and sister and their families. We will be meeting up at a rental home on Lake Michigan. We will also be stopping in Chicago to see my husband's grandma, parents, and two sisters and their families. Will be nice to see everyone since it's been too long. And I will get to see my nieces - twin girls born in November last year - who I haven't seen yet!
Does anyone else have any trips or plans for this summer?
Any fun camps or activities your kiddies are involved in?
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
LENT 2008
This year for Lent my family is trying something new. For the period of Lent, we've decided to put a moratorium on our spending. We'll pay bills and buy groceries, of course, but trips to Target, Wal-mart, the mall...all out. We're cutting all fast food, take-out, coffee trips, liquor store runs, the center of Sam's, etc. We spend a ton of money on sitters to attend meetings and social functions, so whatever can't be traded with family members or other families...out. Valentine's day will be homemade this year and all family outings will be walks and parks. We're consolidating driving trips and using the SUV only when necessary. We talked with Joe, who will soon be four, about turning off lights as we leave rooms, wearing our clothes until they are really dirty, keeping the thermostat down and wearing extra layers and reusing and recycling whatever we can...how being a good steward of the earth is an excellent way to honor God. Each sacrifice should remind us of His grace and mercy. The money we save will then go to Lift High the Cross. I'm nervous and excited about this Lenten challenge; I've always taken on a solo sacrifice: no caffeine, no fast food, no cursing, so involving the entire family will, with hope, prove fruitful!
Use this space to share other ideas about how your family is using Lent to grow closer to Christ. We all need more ideas!
Use this space to share other ideas about how your family is using Lent to grow closer to Christ. We all need more ideas!
Monday, January 28, 2008
Soup's On!
Okay,ladies! Here's the request for soup recipes from several weeks ago. Print 'em out for the next stretch of chilly weather we seem to be in for. Here is my standby recipe for chicken stock that seems to change each batch. It is ideal for chicken noodle or pork wonton or vegetable. I will often freeze 1 cup baggies of it for individual servings, to add to rice, or for when I'm out of canned broth. Enjoy!
Basic Stock
1 whole chicken (I love buying the roasted chickens at the grocery. Serve it for dinner and use what is left of the carcass for the soup!
1 onion, cut in quarters
2-3 carrots or a handful of baby carrots
2-3 stalks of celery
1/2 tomato (I've also used a squirt of ketchup if I'm out!)
1-2 bullion cubes (more if your chicken carcass is skimpy)
fresh parsley
salt
pepper
*other "last day" veggies and random herbs I've thrown in the pot: turnips, green onion, shallot, thyme, bay leaf
Bring the bot to a boil. Cover and let simmer for 2-3 hours, tasting frequently and adjusting seasoning. Strain off broth and pick out chicken (if using fresh). I like to refrigerate the stock overnight, then skim the fat off the top.
Chicken Noodle
Bring stock to a boil. Add chopped carrots. Boil noodles in water. Drain and add to broth.
Pork Wonton Soup
Brown lean ground pork or cut leftover pork loin into small pieces. Using store bought wonton wrappers (in the refrigerator part of the produce section), add a tsp of cornstarch to 3/4 cup or so of water and mix. Use your finger to wet a "V" of the square, add the pork, and fold into a triangle. Use the paste to fold sides into an envelope. (My kids love to help with these!). Bring a pot of water to a boil and boil just until wontons float to the top. Add chopped scallions and thinly sliced mushrooms to broth, adding wontons last. Coupled with fried rice (I throw all the weeks leftover veggies and meat in!), it makes for an impressive and healthy meal!
Basic Stock
1 whole chicken (I love buying the roasted chickens at the grocery. Serve it for dinner and use what is left of the carcass for the soup!
1 onion, cut in quarters
2-3 carrots or a handful of baby carrots
2-3 stalks of celery
1/2 tomato (I've also used a squirt of ketchup if I'm out!)
1-2 bullion cubes (more if your chicken carcass is skimpy)
fresh parsley
salt
pepper
*other "last day" veggies and random herbs I've thrown in the pot: turnips, green onion, shallot, thyme, bay leaf
Bring the bot to a boil. Cover and let simmer for 2-3 hours, tasting frequently and adjusting seasoning. Strain off broth and pick out chicken (if using fresh). I like to refrigerate the stock overnight, then skim the fat off the top.
Chicken Noodle
Bring stock to a boil. Add chopped carrots. Boil noodles in water. Drain and add to broth.
Pork Wonton Soup
Brown lean ground pork or cut leftover pork loin into small pieces. Using store bought wonton wrappers (in the refrigerator part of the produce section), add a tsp of cornstarch to 3/4 cup or so of water and mix. Use your finger to wet a "V" of the square, add the pork, and fold into a triangle. Use the paste to fold sides into an envelope. (My kids love to help with these!). Bring a pot of water to a boil and boil just until wontons float to the top. Add chopped scallions and thinly sliced mushrooms to broth, adding wontons last. Coupled with fried rice (I throw all the weeks leftover veggies and meat in!), it makes for an impressive and healthy meal!
Friday, January 18, 2008
Ordinary, Not Common
I've been thinking lately about what it means to be ordinary. Minus the dog and the .4 child, my family seemingly fits the definition. No outstanding warrants, no E! True Hollywood Story fodder--heck--my husband and I even have jobs so ordinary they are spaces on the board game, Life (Remember that one? Where a travel agent could win the Nobel Peace Prize with the right spin of the wheel?). I've been thinking how easy it is to get pulled down by being ordinary in a culture that seems to value more: more money, more stuff, more fame, more friends, more everything. It is easy to forget the blessedness in being ordinary. The holiness of an ordinary day. The graces present in household tasks than are back on the to do list as soon as they are crossed off. I'm certain Mary sighed and shook her head when Christ came in from playing in the snow--er sand--and tracked it all over the house. I've been reminded that Mary did the laundry of the Son of Man, after all. In writing about St. Therese, Michael Novak (one of my favorite Catholic writers)puts it most succinctly: "To be a saint, it is not necessary to do great things. It suffices to do all the daily tasks we face with all the love God suffuses into us, even when we do not feel its presence." St Therese is known as the "Saint of Little Ways" and her life teaches us to live with humility, to do ordinary deeds with "God's intensity". Something to think about as we mop floors and wait in carpool lanes.
For those of you who missed the January meeting, Shawna Davidson of MOMS (Ministry of Mothers Sharing) came and talked to us about many things. She recommended several books that I'll list below. If you have other spiritual reading you'd like to recommend, please let us know!
Searching for and Maintaining Peace by Jacques Philippe, George Driscoll, and Jannie Driscoll
Diary of Saint Maria Faustina Kowalska by Saint Maria Faustina Kowalaska
Revelations of Divine Mercy: Daily Readings from the Diary of Blessed Faustina Kowalska by Faustyna and George W. Kosicki
Have a blessed week!
Jennie
Works Cited
Novak, Michael. “St. Thérèse, Doctor of the Church.” Crisis (December 1997).
For those of you who missed the January meeting, Shawna Davidson of MOMS (Ministry of Mothers Sharing) came and talked to us about many things. She recommended several books that I'll list below. If you have other spiritual reading you'd like to recommend, please let us know!
Searching for and Maintaining Peace by Jacques Philippe, George Driscoll, and Jannie Driscoll
Diary of Saint Maria Faustina Kowalska by Saint Maria Faustina Kowalaska
Revelations of Divine Mercy: Daily Readings from the Diary of Blessed Faustina Kowalska by Faustyna and George W. Kosicki
Have a blessed week!
Jennie
Works Cited
Novak, Michael. “St. Thérèse, Doctor of the Church.” Crisis (December 1997).
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