Monday, November 28, 2005
More prayer requests
My pocket rosary today will be for Danielle's little boy, who is having surgery this morning. Hers is the first blog I have ever read, and I really enjoy reading about her family. She is younger than I am, but very wise, and a wonderful writer.
Sunday, November 27, 2005
Blessed Advent!
Today marks the beginning of the end. Advent is our time of looking toward the end: the coming of the Savior, and the salvation of us all.
It's not Christmas yet. It's hard to convince children of that, since neighborhoods and stores are full of Santa, Frosty, Rudolph, candy canes, twinkle lights, silver bells and all those secular symbols. But what about the Baby?
Advent is a time in which I try to keep my family looking toward the "reason for the season." There are not yet any decorations in my home. At dinner tonight we will light a candle in our Advent wreath. After dinner I will clear a special shelf in the living room and we'll place our empty manger there. We make a calendar filled with daily Advent activities, and this year it extends through Epiphany. In our home, we attempt an attitude of anticipation, and we try not to celebrate the feast until it arrives.
It's not Christmas yet. It's hard to convince children of that, since neighborhoods and stores are full of Santa, Frosty, Rudolph, candy canes, twinkle lights, silver bells and all those secular symbols. But what about the Baby?
Advent is a time in which I try to keep my family looking toward the "reason for the season." There are not yet any decorations in my home. At dinner tonight we will light a candle in our Advent wreath. After dinner I will clear a special shelf in the living room and we'll place our empty manger there. We make a calendar filled with daily Advent activities, and this year it extends through Epiphany. In our home, we attempt an attitude of anticipation, and we try not to celebrate the feast until it arrives.
Saturday, November 26, 2005
Call for Nominations: Blogs of Beauty Awards
Here's the chance to honor your favorite female bloggers at Two Talent Living's 2005 Blogs of Beauty Awards.
There are some great categories there. I've sent in my nominees...you have until Tuesday to do yours.
I am "Rerun"
NO, not the fat guy from "What's Happening!" I could never dance like that.
You are Rerun!
Which Peanuts Character are You?
brought to you by Quizilla
I don't know much about Rerun, but maybe that's appropriate since many people don't know much about me! I do admire his coat-hanger-sculpture skills in "I Want a Dog for Christmas, Charlie Brown!"
Via Catholic Fire. Thanks, Jean! I love Peanuts too.
You are Rerun!
Which Peanuts Character are You?
brought to you by Quizilla
I don't know much about Rerun, but maybe that's appropriate since many people don't know much about me! I do admire his coat-hanger-sculpture skills in "I Want a Dog for Christmas, Charlie Brown!"
Via Catholic Fire. Thanks, Jean! I love Peanuts too.
Friday, November 25, 2005
Thanksgiving
I'm giving thanks for the wonderful news that Natalie's new kidney is functioning well! She should be released from the hospital soon, and is now released from her 19-month bondage of 10-hour-per-night dialysis.
Pray, Pray, and Pray Some More
We arrived home from our Thanksgiving travels to find a very welcome message on our answering machine: a young friend of ours, turning 15 next month, is receiving a long-awaited kidney transplant right now. Please pray for a successful surgery and recovery for Natalie, and also for her parents and three sisters, and in a special way remember the immortal and generous soul of her donor, and the donor's grieving family. Of their grief is born a new lease on life for a young girl with her whole life ahead of her.
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Which Philosopher Am I?
Really??
St. Augustine-
Born a Roman in a fading Empire, Augustine spent
his life trying to figure out what it was all
about. He asked questions and investigated
many possibilities but in the middle of his
life he was called by God and became a
Christian. He was a powerful thinker about
varied moral and metaphysical issues.
Augustine is the kind of philosopher you might
turn to in a time of doubt for comfort and
help.
Which Philosopher are you?
brought to you by Quizilla
Via Catholic Fire.
St. Augustine-
Born a Roman in a fading Empire, Augustine spent
his life trying to figure out what it was all
about. He asked questions and investigated
many possibilities but in the middle of his
life he was called by God and became a
Christian. He was a powerful thinker about
varied moral and metaphysical issues.
Augustine is the kind of philosopher you might
turn to in a time of doubt for comfort and
help.
Which Philosopher are you?
brought to you by Quizilla
Via Catholic Fire.
The Birth Verse Meme
Julie D at Happy Catholic tagged me for this one.
How it works: Look up your birth date as the chapter & verse in each of the 4 Gospels.
MATTHEW 7.28: The result was that when Jesus had finished these words, the multitudes were amazed at his teaching.
MARK 7.28 But she answered and said to him: "Yes, Lord, but even the dogs under the table feed on the children's crumbs."
LUKE 7.28 "I say to you, among those born of women, there is no one greater than John, yet he who is least in the kingdom of Heaven is greater than he."
JOHN 7.28 Jesus therefore cried out in the temple, teaching and saying, "You both know Me and know where I am from, and I have not come of myself but He who sent Me is true, whom you do not know."
If I'm supposed to find a theme here, I'd say it is humility: being amazed at the teachings of the Lord, not being afraid to beg for something, being "less than" the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven....
How it works: Look up your birth date as the chapter & verse in each of the 4 Gospels.
MATTHEW 7.28: The result was that when Jesus had finished these words, the multitudes were amazed at his teaching.
MARK 7.28 But she answered and said to him: "Yes, Lord, but even the dogs under the table feed on the children's crumbs."
LUKE 7.28 "I say to you, among those born of women, there is no one greater than John, yet he who is least in the kingdom of Heaven is greater than he."
JOHN 7.28 Jesus therefore cried out in the temple, teaching and saying, "You both know Me and know where I am from, and I have not come of myself but He who sent Me is true, whom you do not know."
If I'm supposed to find a theme here, I'd say it is humility: being amazed at the teachings of the Lord, not being afraid to beg for something, being "less than" the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven....
OOOOOOOOOPS!
I was asked to bring only two things to my sister's for Thanksgiving. Granma's Rolls, and shrimp cocktail. Since we have a three-hour trip (one way) she thinks of things that travel well when she assigns these things.
So that's fine. No problem.
Last time, I made two batches of cocktail sauce for the shrimp. One "regular" and one "Wasabi." The last was such a hit among several of the guests that I naturally made some to bring along tomorrow.
The two batches of sauce are in containers in my refrigerator right now, Letting the Flavors Marry, as Rachael Ray would say.
Identical containers.
Need I mention that not EVERYONE wants Wasabi?
So that's fine. No problem.
Last time, I made two batches of cocktail sauce for the shrimp. One "regular" and one "Wasabi." The last was such a hit among several of the guests that I naturally made some to bring along tomorrow.
The two batches of sauce are in containers in my refrigerator right now, Letting the Flavors Marry, as Rachael Ray would say.
Identical containers.
Need I mention that not EVERYONE wants Wasabi?
Granma's Rolls
I could never survive on the Atkins Diet.
My paternal grandmother was famous for her homemade rolls. She made these for the "Sunday Before Thanksgiving Family Dinner" and the "Palm Sunday Family Dinner," both of which she hosted, and other family special occasions such as graduations and the like. We always could count on Granma to show up with a paper grocery bag full of fresh, fragrant rolls. As kids, we would have contests among the cousins to see who could eat the most rolls at a single meal. I believe the record was 7, and that was before any of the boys hit their teenage years!
Granma was never much of a "by the cookbook" baker but one of my cousins did manage to get something of a recipe for these rolls from Granma before she passed away in 1994. It took me a few years to get that recipe from my cousin, but I finally did. Turns out it was little more than an ingredient list, but that's enough if you know a little about baking bread.
I think my sister has the recipe too, but it seems that in my branch of the family, I have become the one designated to carry on the tradition of "Granma's Rolls." Normally when we are invited to a family dinner and I ask what I can bring, the answer is always the same.
Tomorrow is no exception. So while I won't be cooking tomorrow--though I'll happily pitch in and help my sister--I'm wearing my apron now, and the smell of yeast dough is in the air. The dough is rising and getting ready to shape; then it's off to the back porch to rise slowly all night and be baked fresh in the morning.
Of course, I'll deliver those rolls in a paper grocery bag. Granma wouldn't have it any other way.
My paternal grandmother was famous for her homemade rolls. She made these for the "Sunday Before Thanksgiving Family Dinner" and the "Palm Sunday Family Dinner," both of which she hosted, and other family special occasions such as graduations and the like. We always could count on Granma to show up with a paper grocery bag full of fresh, fragrant rolls. As kids, we would have contests among the cousins to see who could eat the most rolls at a single meal. I believe the record was 7, and that was before any of the boys hit their teenage years!
Granma was never much of a "by the cookbook" baker but one of my cousins did manage to get something of a recipe for these rolls from Granma before she passed away in 1994. It took me a few years to get that recipe from my cousin, but I finally did. Turns out it was little more than an ingredient list, but that's enough if you know a little about baking bread.
I think my sister has the recipe too, but it seems that in my branch of the family, I have become the one designated to carry on the tradition of "Granma's Rolls." Normally when we are invited to a family dinner and I ask what I can bring, the answer is always the same.
Tomorrow is no exception. So while I won't be cooking tomorrow--though I'll happily pitch in and help my sister--I'm wearing my apron now, and the smell of yeast dough is in the air. The dough is rising and getting ready to shape; then it's off to the back porch to rise slowly all night and be baked fresh in the morning.
Of course, I'll deliver those rolls in a paper grocery bag. Granma wouldn't have it any other way.
I'm Not Cooking This Year
It's quiet in my kitchen right now. I'm not cooking Thanksgiving dinner this year.
I generally have the privilege of doing Thanksgiving every other year, and this is not the one.
I won't be waking up at 5 AM to saute onions in a LOT of butter, cube Wonder bread that's been getting stale on the table overnight (no other kind will do), mix in the sausage and Bell's poultry seasoning (no other kind will do), dump a turkey out of the brine bucket and shove as much stuffing as possible into the cavity--after Checking It Twice to make sure that all Bags of Miscellaneous Icky Turkey Parts have been removed, and finally put the bird in to bake.
The very first time I cooked Thanksgiving dinner was the year I was in graduate school at Notre Dame. We only had two days off, and I had no money for a plane ticket home to New Jersey. My sister was working, so she had money for a plane ticket to visit me. Two of my three roommates would also be staying, and we planned among ourselves to cook a Thanksgiving feast in our little on-campus apartment.
We rounded up a few friends who also did not have the chance to go home for the holiday, among them an international student or two. Then we divided up the dishes. I don't remember what was served that day other than turkey, because the turkey was MY job! My grandmother wrote down the recipe for her famous stuffing and mailed it to me at school.
At 5 in the morning I woke up to prepare the turkey. I was a little slow, because I was new at this, but the job got done and I didn't wake any roommates or houseguests in the process. Then I sat down at the dining room table with my cup of tea, and proceeded with my daily ritual of translating 50 lines of Beowulf, as I dared not go to that class unprepared--there were only 6 students in the class!
I basted the turkey on and off all day. My roommates prepared their parts of the meal. I can't remember where we all sat, or how many we were, but we had a great time and a very good meal.
Having been diagnosed with bronchitis on Monday, I appreciate the "bye year" this year, and I know that at my sister's house we will be fed wonderful food and enjoy the company of many relatives. But I still miss the gift of cooking Thanksgiving dinner.
I'll have to take comfort in baking the obligatory "Granma's Rolls," which deserve a post all their own.
I generally have the privilege of doing Thanksgiving every other year, and this is not the one.
I won't be waking up at 5 AM to saute onions in a LOT of butter, cube Wonder bread that's been getting stale on the table overnight (no other kind will do), mix in the sausage and Bell's poultry seasoning (no other kind will do), dump a turkey out of the brine bucket and shove as much stuffing as possible into the cavity--after Checking It Twice to make sure that all Bags of Miscellaneous Icky Turkey Parts have been removed, and finally put the bird in to bake.
The very first time I cooked Thanksgiving dinner was the year I was in graduate school at Notre Dame. We only had two days off, and I had no money for a plane ticket home to New Jersey. My sister was working, so she had money for a plane ticket to visit me. Two of my three roommates would also be staying, and we planned among ourselves to cook a Thanksgiving feast in our little on-campus apartment.
We rounded up a few friends who also did not have the chance to go home for the holiday, among them an international student or two. Then we divided up the dishes. I don't remember what was served that day other than turkey, because the turkey was MY job! My grandmother wrote down the recipe for her famous stuffing and mailed it to me at school.
At 5 in the morning I woke up to prepare the turkey. I was a little slow, because I was new at this, but the job got done and I didn't wake any roommates or houseguests in the process. Then I sat down at the dining room table with my cup of tea, and proceeded with my daily ritual of translating 50 lines of Beowulf, as I dared not go to that class unprepared--there were only 6 students in the class!
I basted the turkey on and off all day. My roommates prepared their parts of the meal. I can't remember where we all sat, or how many we were, but we had a great time and a very good meal.
Having been diagnosed with bronchitis on Monday, I appreciate the "bye year" this year, and I know that at my sister's house we will be fed wonderful food and enjoy the company of many relatives. But I still miss the gift of cooking Thanksgiving dinner.
I'll have to take comfort in baking the obligatory "Granma's Rolls," which deserve a post all their own.
Monday, November 21, 2005
Thanksgiving Meme
1. Write three things that I'm grateful to God for in this past liturgical year.
--My family & friends, both far and near.
--Being fortunate enough to have food, clothing, shelter and transportation, in a time when many in my own country have not been able to take such necessities for granted.
--Being able to start "feeding my soul" a little more.
2. Write three ways in which I hope to improve my relationship with God in this coming liturgical year.
--Blogging! This blog has become the journal I never kept. I can put all my half-baked thoughts here, let them cook, and sometimes others come along and season them and help me grow a little bit! It's wonderful.
--Confession. I've been bad about that, sorry to say. But I have started up again and I intend to keep that going and encourage my family also.
--Indulge my soul in a little spiritual reading as often as I am able. There's quite a pile on my tabletop now.
Via Steve.
--My family & friends, both far and near.
--Being fortunate enough to have food, clothing, shelter and transportation, in a time when many in my own country have not been able to take such necessities for granted.
--Being able to start "feeding my soul" a little more.
2. Write three ways in which I hope to improve my relationship with God in this coming liturgical year.
--Blogging! This blog has become the journal I never kept. I can put all my half-baked thoughts here, let them cook, and sometimes others come along and season them and help me grow a little bit! It's wonderful.
--Confession. I've been bad about that, sorry to say. But I have started up again and I intend to keep that going and encourage my family also.
--Indulge my soul in a little spiritual reading as often as I am able. There's quite a pile on my tabletop now.
Via Steve.
My Pocket Rosary
This is something that I started doing about 2 months ago. It works for me, and I'm sharing it here hoping that it might help somebody else.
A Friar suggested to me that a good way to deal with anger is to say the Rosary. I've never been much of a Rosary person but I figured, what can it hurt? I started keeping one in my pocket (and I am rarely without a pocket). The idea is that when I start to get angry I should take a time-out and pray for a decade or more, with the intention of relieving my anger and finding a good way to resolve the situation.
Around the same time, I started to think about the fact that people, myself included, say they will pray for some intention. I don't want to forget that I have promised a friend that I will pray for their grandmother, or whatever it is. So I began to dedicate my "pocket Rosary" for a certain intention each day. If someone asks me to pray for their intention, I dedicate my day's "pocket Rosary" for that. Each time I notice the Rosary in my pocket, I saw a quick prayer for the day's intention. And of course any decades I might complete are also offered for that intention.
It helps me to know that I am following up on the situation somehow. I know some people keep notebooks, or whatever. This is what works for me, right now.
I read somewhere--and if I can remember where, I will credit it properly--that the best response when someone asks you to pray for them is to say something like, "I will pray for you, as the Lord brings you to my mind." Whenever you think of this person, just say a quick prayer for them. Chances are, the Lord will bring them to your mind often.
That said, today's Pocket Rosary will be for the Cajun Princess.
A Friar suggested to me that a good way to deal with anger is to say the Rosary. I've never been much of a Rosary person but I figured, what can it hurt? I started keeping one in my pocket (and I am rarely without a pocket). The idea is that when I start to get angry I should take a time-out and pray for a decade or more, with the intention of relieving my anger and finding a good way to resolve the situation.
Around the same time, I started to think about the fact that people, myself included, say they will pray for some intention. I don't want to forget that I have promised a friend that I will pray for their grandmother, or whatever it is. So I began to dedicate my "pocket Rosary" for a certain intention each day. If someone asks me to pray for their intention, I dedicate my day's "pocket Rosary" for that. Each time I notice the Rosary in my pocket, I saw a quick prayer for the day's intention. And of course any decades I might complete are also offered for that intention.
It helps me to know that I am following up on the situation somehow. I know some people keep notebooks, or whatever. This is what works for me, right now.
I read somewhere--and if I can remember where, I will credit it properly--that the best response when someone asks you to pray for them is to say something like, "I will pray for you, as the Lord brings you to my mind." Whenever you think of this person, just say a quick prayer for them. Chances are, the Lord will bring them to your mind often.
That said, today's Pocket Rosary will be for the Cajun Princess.
Little Brother Brightens My Day
There's nothing like a 3-year-old to give you a laugh when you need it.
Just now he was flipping channels on TV, looking for his favorite show ("Hi-5.") He stopped at ESPN, and informed me, "Mom! Football's on!"
Me: "It IS?"
Little Brother: "Yes! But the Notre Dames are not playing. It's the green guys, and the Blues Clues helmet guys. The Giants are going to win. They're the best. Eagles can beat the Giants. Giants stink! Come and watch!"
Earlier this morning he was mutilating his favorite nursery rhyme:
"Dick, Dock, Dick, Dock....Dickory, Dickory, Dock, the mouse runned up the clock.
The clock SMASHED one, and down he did run, Dickory, Dickory, Dock. Dick, Dock, Dick, Dock."
Just now he was flipping channels on TV, looking for his favorite show ("Hi-5.") He stopped at ESPN, and informed me, "Mom! Football's on!"
Me: "It IS?"
Little Brother: "Yes! But the Notre Dames are not playing. It's the green guys, and the Blues Clues helmet guys. The Giants are going to win. They're the best. Eagles can beat the Giants. Giants stink! Come and watch!"
Earlier this morning he was mutilating his favorite nursery rhyme:
"Dick, Dock, Dick, Dock....Dickory, Dickory, Dock, the mouse runned up the clock.
The clock SMASHED one, and down he did run, Dickory, Dickory, Dock. Dick, Dock, Dick, Dock."
Sunday, November 20, 2005
Confessions of SFO Mom
I've been tagged by Jean.
I CONFESS that I am one of the guitar players at church! Before someone shoots me, though, I accompany a keyboard and a children's choir, and this morning we sang "All Creatures of Our God and King" AND "Come, Christians Join to Sing." Not a St. Louis Jesuits piece all morning!
I CONFESS that I just finished a nutritious lunch of half a box of "Cheese Nips" and some Pepsi.
I CONFESS that I buy more shoes than any one person really needs. Especially a Franciscan person.
I CONFESS that I regularly pilfer, pillage and plunder my children's stash of Halloween candy.
I CONFESS that I have the ability to carry a grudge for years and possibly even decades.
I CONFESS that I like to listen to "girl groups" in the car and sing along. Loudly. With the windows open.
And in related matters, I CONFESS to having the secret dream of being a "doo-wop girl." (Not one of the ones from Robert Palmer's "Addicted to Love," either.)
I CONFESS to enjoying Robert Palmer's song "Addicted to Love."
I CONFESS to laughing when one Sunday my husband dressed Little Brother in pants that were way too big, and when Father called the children to the altar to say the Lord's Prayer together, Little Brother's pants fell down and all the kids saw his "Bob the Builder" underwear.
I CONFESS to making more pie dough than I need to every time I make a pie, so I can eat the "scraps" raw.
I CONFESS to taking a strange satisfaction in drinking Pepsi out of a Coca-Cola glass.
I am well aware that I still owe the Thanksgiving meme to Steve, and I promise that I'll get to it. I CONFESS that I've been putting it off, due to the hard feelings I am having toward the "powers that be" in my diocese right now.
I'm going to tag Steve at A Song of November, Amy at RC Mommy, and the Holy Fool for this one.
I CONFESS that I am one of the guitar players at church! Before someone shoots me, though, I accompany a keyboard and a children's choir, and this morning we sang "All Creatures of Our God and King" AND "Come, Christians Join to Sing." Not a St. Louis Jesuits piece all morning!
I CONFESS that I just finished a nutritious lunch of half a box of "Cheese Nips" and some Pepsi.
I CONFESS that I buy more shoes than any one person really needs. Especially a Franciscan person.
I CONFESS that I regularly pilfer, pillage and plunder my children's stash of Halloween candy.
I CONFESS that I have the ability to carry a grudge for years and possibly even decades.
I CONFESS that I like to listen to "girl groups" in the car and sing along. Loudly. With the windows open.
And in related matters, I CONFESS to having the secret dream of being a "doo-wop girl." (Not one of the ones from Robert Palmer's "Addicted to Love," either.)
I CONFESS to enjoying Robert Palmer's song "Addicted to Love."
I CONFESS to laughing when one Sunday my husband dressed Little Brother in pants that were way too big, and when Father called the children to the altar to say the Lord's Prayer together, Little Brother's pants fell down and all the kids saw his "Bob the Builder" underwear.
I CONFESS to making more pie dough than I need to every time I make a pie, so I can eat the "scraps" raw.
I CONFESS to taking a strange satisfaction in drinking Pepsi out of a Coca-Cola glass.
I am well aware that I still owe the Thanksgiving meme to Steve, and I promise that I'll get to it. I CONFESS that I've been putting it off, due to the hard feelings I am having toward the "powers that be" in my diocese right now.
I'm going to tag Steve at A Song of November, Amy at RC Mommy, and the Holy Fool for this one.
Thursday, November 17, 2005
Pray for the Schools
Earlier today I posted some links about a situation that is facing a Catholic school in California--basically, is the school standing up for what we believe as Catholics?
Tonight I will be attending a meeting in my diocese that I believe is emblematic of another danger facing Catholic schools. It's my opinion that my diocese is trying to get out of the business of educating Catholic children.
Tonight I'll find out the future of the wonderful little Catholic school that my Big Kids attend--and that Little Brother thinks he's a part of, given the hours we both volunteer there. (He has taken on a couple of lunchroom tasks as "his jobs" and gets very bent out of shape if someone else tries to do these tasks!)
Our diocese has invested heavily in the services of a consultant to recommend the course of action that would be best as regards the parochial schools. I think that if the diocese had channeled those funds directly to the schools, we wouldn't need to worry about closing our doors for the next few years.
The thing is, educating Catholic children is not and should never be thought of as a "business." It's an apostolate, pure and simple. It's making sure that the Faith is carried on, and showing children that the Faith is something that can be part of their daily lives, not just for 45 minutes or so on a Sunday morning. It's about letting them know that they can talk about, learn about, and pray to God at school and anytime, and that, as Middle Sister told me when she was in first grade, "Jesus is Number One!" You can't put a price on things like that.
Please pray for our school and all the schools in a similar situation. I think that's all there is left that we can do.
Tonight I will be attending a meeting in my diocese that I believe is emblematic of another danger facing Catholic schools. It's my opinion that my diocese is trying to get out of the business of educating Catholic children.
Tonight I'll find out the future of the wonderful little Catholic school that my Big Kids attend--and that Little Brother thinks he's a part of, given the hours we both volunteer there. (He has taken on a couple of lunchroom tasks as "his jobs" and gets very bent out of shape if someone else tries to do these tasks!)
Our diocese has invested heavily in the services of a consultant to recommend the course of action that would be best as regards the parochial schools. I think that if the diocese had channeled those funds directly to the schools, we wouldn't need to worry about closing our doors for the next few years.
The thing is, educating Catholic children is not and should never be thought of as a "business." It's an apostolate, pure and simple. It's making sure that the Faith is carried on, and showing children that the Faith is something that can be part of their daily lives, not just for 45 minutes or so on a Sunday morning. It's about letting them know that they can talk about, learn about, and pray to God at school and anytime, and that, as Middle Sister told me when she was in first grade, "Jesus is Number One!" You can't put a price on things like that.
Please pray for our school and all the schools in a similar situation. I think that's all there is left that we can do.
It's all about the motive.
"Nice Work if You Can Get It."
There's a LOT of food for thought here about the motive of laypeople in Church ministry. I invite you to read, and digest. I'm chewing on it myself just now.
Via The Donegal Express.
There's a LOT of food for thought here about the motive of laypeople in Church ministry. I invite you to read, and digest. I'm chewing on it myself just now.
Via The Donegal Express.
Stand Up, Stand Up, for What You Believe In!
(Kudos to Veggie Tales for a great tune with an important theme!)
I've been following the story of Katelyn Sills, a Catholic high-school student who was expelled after her family challenged the school's hiring of an abortion clinic escort as the school's drama teacher.
This young woman and her family have gone through a lot because they have stood up for what they believe is right. Katelyn has a blog with a lot of information and she has also been interviewed at Western Alliance.
H/T to De Civitate Dei for the links.
Read it! And keep in your prayers: Katelyn and her family, for the strength to fight the good fight, and Loretto High School and Catholic schools everywhere, for the grace to follow the truth that the Church teaches.
I've been following the story of Katelyn Sills, a Catholic high-school student who was expelled after her family challenged the school's hiring of an abortion clinic escort as the school's drama teacher.
This young woman and her family have gone through a lot because they have stood up for what they believe is right. Katelyn has a blog with a lot of information and she has also been interviewed at Western Alliance.
H/T to De Civitate Dei for the links.
Read it! And keep in your prayers: Katelyn and her family, for the strength to fight the good fight, and Loretto High School and Catholic schools everywhere, for the grace to follow the truth that the Church teaches.
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
SFO Mom Country Music Awards
Since we've been having a chat about lyrics in the comments box, I've been thinking about some of my favorite songs. Add to that last night's awards show, and this is what I come up with.
Disclaimer: Your mileage may vary. Choices are the sole opinion of SFO Mom who claims the right to change her mind at any time, and to turn it up as loud as she wants when she's driving (with the windows open so everyone else can "share.") Not all of these songs are new.
SFO Mom Amazing Harmony Award:
"Whiskey Lullabye" (Allison Krause, Brad Paisley)
"Thirsty" (Patty Loveless)
"I'm So Happy I Can't Stop Crying" (Sting and Toby Keith)
"I Pray for You" (Big & Rich)
Always Makes SFO Mom Cry Award:
"How Can I Help You Say Goodbye" (Patty Loveless)
"Concrete Angel" (Martina McBride)
"The Little Girl" (John Michael Montgomery)
"She's Somebody's Hero" (Jamie O'Neill)
"The Angry American" (Toby Keith)
SFO Mom Gets So Upset By This Song She Changes The Station Award:
"Don't Take the Girl" (Tim McGraw)
SFO Mom Sweet Story Award:
"She Didn't Have Time" (Terri Clark)
"Where Have You Been" (Kathy Mattea)
"Something to be Proud Of" (Montgomery Gentry)
SFO Mom Sad AND Funny Award:
"Do You Want Fries With That?" (Tim McGraw)
SFO Mom Best Title Award:
"Ain't Wastin' Good Whiskey On You" (Trick Pony)
"Did I Shave My Legs for This?" (Terri Clark)
"Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off" (Joe Nichols)
SFO Mom Turn It Up Award:
"Who's Your Daddy?" (Toby Keith)
"Unbelievable" (Diamond Reo)
"That's the Kind of Mood I'm In" (Patti Loveless)
"I Feel Lucky" (Mary-Chapin Carpenter)
"Gone" (Montgomery Gentry)
"Pour Me" (Trick Pony)
SFO Mom Turn It Up Louder Award:
"Comin' To Your City" (Big & Rich)
"All Jacked Up" (Gretchen Wilson)
"I Try to Think About Elvis" (Patti Loveless)
"455 Rocket" (Kathy Mattea)
"Hell Yeah" (Montgomery Gentry)
SFO Mom's Husband Can't Believe She Likes These Award:
"Boogie-Woogie Choo Choo Train" (The Tractors)
"I Ain't As Good As I Once Was" (Toby Keith)
"Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy" (Big & Rich)
Disclaimer: Your mileage may vary. Choices are the sole opinion of SFO Mom who claims the right to change her mind at any time, and to turn it up as loud as she wants when she's driving (with the windows open so everyone else can "share.") Not all of these songs are new.
SFO Mom Amazing Harmony Award:
"Whiskey Lullabye" (Allison Krause, Brad Paisley)
"Thirsty" (Patty Loveless)
"I'm So Happy I Can't Stop Crying" (Sting and Toby Keith)
"I Pray for You" (Big & Rich)
Always Makes SFO Mom Cry Award:
"How Can I Help You Say Goodbye" (Patty Loveless)
"Concrete Angel" (Martina McBride)
"The Little Girl" (John Michael Montgomery)
"She's Somebody's Hero" (Jamie O'Neill)
"The Angry American" (Toby Keith)
SFO Mom Gets So Upset By This Song She Changes The Station Award:
"Don't Take the Girl" (Tim McGraw)
SFO Mom Sweet Story Award:
"She Didn't Have Time" (Terri Clark)
"Where Have You Been" (Kathy Mattea)
"Something to be Proud Of" (Montgomery Gentry)
SFO Mom Sad AND Funny Award:
"Do You Want Fries With That?" (Tim McGraw)
SFO Mom Best Title Award:
"Ain't Wastin' Good Whiskey On You" (Trick Pony)
"Did I Shave My Legs for This?" (Terri Clark)
"Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off" (Joe Nichols)
SFO Mom Turn It Up Award:
"Who's Your Daddy?" (Toby Keith)
"Unbelievable" (Diamond Reo)
"That's the Kind of Mood I'm In" (Patti Loveless)
"I Feel Lucky" (Mary-Chapin Carpenter)
"Gone" (Montgomery Gentry)
"Pour Me" (Trick Pony)
SFO Mom Turn It Up Louder Award:
"Comin' To Your City" (Big & Rich)
"All Jacked Up" (Gretchen Wilson)
"I Try to Think About Elvis" (Patti Loveless)
"455 Rocket" (Kathy Mattea)
"Hell Yeah" (Montgomery Gentry)
SFO Mom's Husband Can't Believe She Likes These Award:
"Boogie-Woogie Choo Choo Train" (The Tractors)
"I Ain't As Good As I Once Was" (Toby Keith)
"Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy" (Big & Rich)
This week's Catholic Carnival
Find the Catholic Carnival here this week, at Living Catholicism.
As always, there's a fine representation of the best Catholic bloggers. Check it out!
As always, there's a fine representation of the best Catholic bloggers. Check it out!
Monday, November 14, 2005
School Supplies
The Big Kids just ran to catch the school bus.
Middle Sister had a backpack filled with books, notebooks, and sheet music for her after-school keyboard lesson. From the looks of things, there is a good deal of "trash" in the bag as well, in the form of old, crumpled paper. After school we'll deal with that.
Big Brother had a backpack with a book or two, a novel he is reading (middle-schoolers in our school are required to carry a book to read at all times--a policy I wholeheartedly endorse), his lunch, AND Little Brother's plastic sword. All the essentials for today's swashbuckling eighth-grader!
He got about 10 feet from the front door when he realized that he was carrying an unconcealed "weapon" that the principal most likely would not admit into the building, and returned it to me.
Middle Sister had a backpack filled with books, notebooks, and sheet music for her after-school keyboard lesson. From the looks of things, there is a good deal of "trash" in the bag as well, in the form of old, crumpled paper. After school we'll deal with that.
Big Brother had a backpack with a book or two, a novel he is reading (middle-schoolers in our school are required to carry a book to read at all times--a policy I wholeheartedly endorse), his lunch, AND Little Brother's plastic sword. All the essentials for today's swashbuckling eighth-grader!
He got about 10 feet from the front door when he realized that he was carrying an unconcealed "weapon" that the principal most likely would not admit into the building, and returned it to me.
In today's comics
OK, it came out too tiny and I don't know how to make it bigger but not blurry.
So I'll give the dialogue.
"Here's what I don't get...if God created man in his own image, how come we don't also have godly powers? It seems like a big tease to make us look like a bunch of gods, but not be able to act the part."
"Are you familiar with the term infinite wisdom?"
"I want to hurl some planets around, dangit!"
It made me laugh, but don't we all want to hurl some planets around sometimes?
There are so many things I'd like to "fix," just starting with physical healing for those of my loved ones who are ill. Sometimes it's hard to remember that God is in charge for a reason.
Sunday, November 13, 2005
Everybody's got a good joke today
Covering both ethnic heritages in my household, I recommend:
Catholic Fire (how could someone with a name like mine NOT like this joke?)
Regular Thoughts (wonderful Irish humor)
Rick at De Civitate Dei has been extra busy with good ones today AND yesterday.
Catholic Fire (how could someone with a name like mine NOT like this joke?)
Regular Thoughts (wonderful Irish humor)
Rick at De Civitate Dei has been extra busy with good ones today AND yesterday.
Saturday, November 12, 2005
Doomed
Little Brother fell asleep on the couch at 5:00 while I was cooking dinner (chicken and dumplings, and it was YUMMY!)
I finally put him in his bed 15 minutes ago. He is, as Big Brother would say, "really sleeping hard."
It's my considered opinion that I should just go to bed now, because he'll be up looking for his dinner in about 5 hours. And I'll be the one who has to give it to him.
I'm thankful that the Big Kids are old enough to fend for themselves for a little while longer and go to bed on their own, because I think that tonight, that's what they'll be doing.
I finally put him in his bed 15 minutes ago. He is, as Big Brother would say, "really sleeping hard."
It's my considered opinion that I should just go to bed now, because he'll be up looking for his dinner in about 5 hours. And I'll be the one who has to give it to him.
I'm thankful that the Big Kids are old enough to fend for themselves for a little while longer and go to bed on their own, because I think that tonight, that's what they'll be doing.
If I'm Crying You're All Crying With Me
Der Tomissar yesterday titled a post with a song lyric from an Irish tune memorializing a young soldier who died in World War II. I know the song, since my dad is a big fan of Irish music, and I've been on the verge of tears ever since.
The song could not be more appropriate as a memorial on Veterans Day. I was out of town yesterday, so as my tribute I'm posting all the lyrics here.
THE GREEN FIELDS OF FRANCE
by Eric Bogle
Well how do you do Private William McBride,
Do you mind if I sit here down by your graveside?
And rest for awhile beneath the warm summer sun,
I've been walking all day and now I'm nearly done
I see by your gravestone you were only nineteen
When you joined the glorious fallen in 1916;
Well I hope you died quick and I hope you died clean,
Or, young Willie McBride, was it slow and obscene?
Refrain:
Did they beat the drum slowly,
Did they play the fife lowly?
Did they sound the Death March
As they lowered you down?
Did the band play
"The Last Post And Chorus?"
Did the pipes play
"The Flowers Of The Forest?"
Did you leave 'ere a wife or a sweetheart behind?
In some faithful heart is your memory enshrined?
And although you died back in 1916,
In that faithful heart are you forever nineteen?
Or are you a stranger without even a name,
Enclosed forever behind a glass pane,
In an old photograph, torn, and battered and stained,
And faded to yellow in a brown leather frame?
Refrain:
Ah the sun now it shines on these green fields of France,
The warm summer breeze makes the red poppies dance,
And look how the sun shines from under the clouds;
There's no gas, no barbed wire, there're no guns firing now.
But here in this graveyard is still No Man's Land,
The countless white crosses in mute witness stand
To man's blind indifference to his fellow man,
To a whole generation that was butchered and damned.
Refrain:
Ah, young Willie McBride, I can't help wonder why,
Did all those who lay here really know why they died?
And did they believe when they answered the call,
Did they really believe that this war would end war?
For the sorrow, the suffering, the glory, the pain,
The killing and dying were all done in vain,
For, young Willie McBride, it all happened again,
And again and again and again and again.
Refrain:
The song could not be more appropriate as a memorial on Veterans Day. I was out of town yesterday, so as my tribute I'm posting all the lyrics here.
THE GREEN FIELDS OF FRANCE
by Eric Bogle
Well how do you do Private William McBride,
Do you mind if I sit here down by your graveside?
And rest for awhile beneath the warm summer sun,
I've been walking all day and now I'm nearly done
I see by your gravestone you were only nineteen
When you joined the glorious fallen in 1916;
Well I hope you died quick and I hope you died clean,
Or, young Willie McBride, was it slow and obscene?
Refrain:
Did they beat the drum slowly,
Did they play the fife lowly?
Did they sound the Death March
As they lowered you down?
Did the band play
"The Last Post And Chorus?"
Did the pipes play
"The Flowers Of The Forest?"
Did you leave 'ere a wife or a sweetheart behind?
In some faithful heart is your memory enshrined?
And although you died back in 1916,
In that faithful heart are you forever nineteen?
Or are you a stranger without even a name,
Enclosed forever behind a glass pane,
In an old photograph, torn, and battered and stained,
And faded to yellow in a brown leather frame?
Refrain:
Ah the sun now it shines on these green fields of France,
The warm summer breeze makes the red poppies dance,
And look how the sun shines from under the clouds;
There's no gas, no barbed wire, there're no guns firing now.
But here in this graveyard is still No Man's Land,
The countless white crosses in mute witness stand
To man's blind indifference to his fellow man,
To a whole generation that was butchered and damned.
Refrain:
Ah, young Willie McBride, I can't help wonder why,
Did all those who lay here really know why they died?
And did they believe when they answered the call,
Did they really believe that this war would end war?
For the sorrow, the suffering, the glory, the pain,
The killing and dying were all done in vain,
For, young Willie McBride, it all happened again,
And again and again and again and again.
Refrain:
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
My turn to post a joke
Seems like "all the cool bloggers are doing it" so I figured, why not join in?
My dad just sent me this one.
The local parish had a fairly new priest. He had wonderful, innovative ideas that were, for the most part accepted by the congregation.
His mentor - a "higher ranking" priest came for a visit - to see how he was doing. After looking the parish over, the senior priest said, "Father John, your idea of a drive-through confessional is wonderful. That makes it so convenient for your church members.
"And, Father John, it was a really good idea to have the confessional open 24 hours a day, for those who work "shift" work. However, Father John... that flashing neon sign that says "TOOT and TELL or GO to HELL" ... well, it has got to go!!"
My dad just sent me this one.
The local parish had a fairly new priest. He had wonderful, innovative ideas that were, for the most part accepted by the congregation.
His mentor - a "higher ranking" priest came for a visit - to see how he was doing. After looking the parish over, the senior priest said, "Father John, your idea of a drive-through confessional is wonderful. That makes it so convenient for your church members.
"And, Father John, it was a really good idea to have the confessional open 24 hours a day, for those who work "shift" work. However, Father John... that flashing neon sign that says "TOOT and TELL or GO to HELL" ... well, it has got to go!!"
I couldn't resist
The results of the Golden Girl Quiz are in...
width="238" height="196" alt="Sophia Petrillo" border="1">
target="_blank">Which Golden Girl Are You?
She's my favorite, hands down!
Take the quiz. You'll love the dessert question!
H/T to Philothea Rose.
width="238" height="196" alt="Sophia Petrillo" border="1">target="_blank">Which Golden Girl Are You?
She's my favorite, hands down!
Take the quiz. You'll love the dessert question!
H/T to Philothea Rose.
Notre Dame Vs. Navy Game
You learn something new every day.
The Catholic Packer Fan features the story behind the traditional ND-Navy football game. Some people give ND fans a hard time because the team plays Navy, which has not beaten ND in 41 years. But there's an interesting story behind the tradition of this game.
Of the 3 ND games I've had the pleasure of attending, 2 were against Navy. I'd go again in a heartbeat.
Go Irish!
The Catholic Packer Fan features the story behind the traditional ND-Navy football game. Some people give ND fans a hard time because the team plays Navy, which has not beaten ND in 41 years. But there's an interesting story behind the tradition of this game.
Of the 3 ND games I've had the pleasure of attending, 2 were against Navy. I'd go again in a heartbeat.
Go Irish!
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
Hoorah.
 | You scored as Medic. You're a medic. Not really into fighting people, but prefer to help and heal. You're a caring person who generally wants to help, but don't fight. But instead you heal the injured. You're a brave person, but most people generally regard you as foolish because of the risks you take to help others. But you don't care because you're a battlefield medic. READY, CLEAR!!!!
Which soldier type are you? created with QuizFarm.com |
Everyone's got this one...so, via about half the people in my blogroll!
I'm sending the link to this to Big Brother, who at 13 is quite interested in military history. Should be fascinating to see how he scores.
There's a Reason for Everything
25 years ago you would never have convinced me that I'd become a "stay-at-home" mom with 3 children. When I was in high school, I was fairly sure that one day I'd enter the convent. As I completed my education, I attended retreats and corresponded with a vocation director or two.
Long story short, it just never felt "right" and I wound up working for a few years before getting married at 25 and starting my family right away. That's what felt right. Later I discovered and joined the Secular Franciscan Order, and that feels right too.
The other day I picked up a book called Unveiled: The Hidden Lives of Nuns. The fact that the dust jacket featured a glowing review by Father Andrew Greeley clued me in that this book wasn't going to go down a path I'd like--and the book did not disappoint in that respect.
Precious little mention, never mind attention, was given to orders like the Sisters of Life where young, enthusiastic women are lining up at the door to join.
Instead, the book is full of paragraphs like this one: While the McDonald sisters' belief may seem heretical, especially to conservative Catholics, the Catholic Church permits merging traditions from various religions, including Native American spirituality, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Burning sage and praying to "the Goddess" is accepted as long as it doesn't conflict with the basic precepts of the Catholic faith.
Developments such as these are described in the book as the result of "growth" or "maturing."
I seriously hope that this book is reflective of a very small minority of the Sisters in our country. If this is not the case, however, and what's described in the book is really what's going on with women Religous in America, then I'm glad that God took me down a different path.
Long story short, it just never felt "right" and I wound up working for a few years before getting married at 25 and starting my family right away. That's what felt right. Later I discovered and joined the Secular Franciscan Order, and that feels right too.
The other day I picked up a book called Unveiled: The Hidden Lives of Nuns. The fact that the dust jacket featured a glowing review by Father Andrew Greeley clued me in that this book wasn't going to go down a path I'd like--and the book did not disappoint in that respect.
Precious little mention, never mind attention, was given to orders like the Sisters of Life where young, enthusiastic women are lining up at the door to join.
Instead, the book is full of paragraphs like this one: While the McDonald sisters' belief may seem heretical, especially to conservative Catholics, the Catholic Church permits merging traditions from various religions, including Native American spirituality, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Burning sage and praying to "the Goddess" is accepted as long as it doesn't conflict with the basic precepts of the Catholic faith.
Developments such as these are described in the book as the result of "growth" or "maturing."
I seriously hope that this book is reflective of a very small minority of the Sisters in our country. If this is not the case, however, and what's described in the book is really what's going on with women Religous in America, then I'm glad that God took me down a different path.
Monday, November 07, 2005
Politics
Last night when I was talking with my Dad on the phone, he asked, "How are you voting in the elections this week?"
Me: "Reluctantly."
Enough said.
Me: "Reluctantly."
Enough said.
Saturday, November 05, 2005
You know you're a mom when....
...you want to sit down on the couch, but you can't because you don't want to disturb Little Brother's carefully laid-out battlefield that includes: a flashlight (lit and abandoned), a Micro Machines tank, three knights, one bank robber, two pirates and a cowboy from various Fisher Price sets, one Happy Meal caveman-looking guy, some monster from Star Wars, and Tinkerbell.
I did turn off the flashlight, though.
I did turn off the flashlight, though.
Lend a hand when you can....
Friday, November 04, 2005
Meme Meme Meme
The Three meme, via Steve
Three names I go by:
Barb
Barbara
Mom
Three screen names I have had:
MY T MOUSE
Barbsz
Cookbookmom
Three physical things I like about myself:
My eyes
That's about it
Three physical things I don’t like about myself:
My stomach
My feet
Moles
Three parts of my heritage:
Irish (7/8)
Belgian (1/8)
Polish/Lithuanian (by marriage)
Three things that scare me:
The thought of anything happening to my kids
Bugs!
The smell of fire
Three of my everyday essentials:
Coffee
Hugs and kisses from my family
Computer time
(Too good not to steal, Steve!)
Three of my favorite musical artists:
Patty Loveless
Sugarland
Simon & Garfunkel
Three of my favorite songs:
Silent Night
(Hey, nobody said they had to be POPULAR songs)
American Pie
Teach Your Children Well
Three things I want have in a relationship:
Listening
Trust
Understanding
Three lies and three truths in no particular order:
I'm a perfect size 3.
I have 3 children.
3 years ago I had never heard of blogs.
3 decades ago I hadn't even been born.
For lunch today I ate 3 cheeseburgers.
My youngest child is 3 years old.
(Well, you said 3....)
Three physical things about the opposite sex that appeal to me:
Smile
Hands
Legs
Three of my favorite hobbies:
Reading
Cooking
Reading cookbooks
Three things I want to do really badly right now:
Take a nap
Read a book
Continue avoiding housework
Three careers I’ve considered/I’m considering:
Librarian
Teacher (been there, done that)
Chef
Three Places I want to vacation:
Ireland
Mountains, in the fall (any mountains, anywhere, as long as there are pretty trees)
Spain
Three kid’s names I like:
(Not including the names of my own kids)
Sylvia
Timothy
Veronica
Three things I want to do before I die:
Read all the books I own
Organize my photo albums
Visit Ireland again
Three ways that I am stereotypically a girl:
Always worrying about what to wear
Change my mind a lot
Love shopping for shoes!
Three ways that I am stereotypically a boy:
Like to play with blocks, cars, trains
More of a "problem solver" than a sympathetic ear
Always want to have pockets in my clothes
Three celeb crushes:
None really
Three people I would like to see post this meme:
Jill
Rose, if she's not too busy nesting
Amy
Three names I go by:
Barb
Barbara
Mom
Three screen names I have had:
MY T MOUSE
Barbsz
Cookbookmom
Three physical things I like about myself:
My eyes
That's about it
Three physical things I don’t like about myself:
My stomach
My feet
Moles
Three parts of my heritage:
Irish (7/8)
Belgian (1/8)
Polish/Lithuanian (by marriage)
Three things that scare me:
The thought of anything happening to my kids
Bugs!
The smell of fire
Three of my everyday essentials:
Coffee
Hugs and kisses from my family
Computer time
(Too good not to steal, Steve!)
Three of my favorite musical artists:
Patty Loveless
Sugarland
Simon & Garfunkel
Three of my favorite songs:
Silent Night
(Hey, nobody said they had to be POPULAR songs)
American Pie
Teach Your Children Well
Three things I want have in a relationship:
Listening
Trust
Understanding
Three lies and three truths in no particular order:
I'm a perfect size 3.
I have 3 children.
3 years ago I had never heard of blogs.
3 decades ago I hadn't even been born.
For lunch today I ate 3 cheeseburgers.
My youngest child is 3 years old.
(Well, you said 3....)
Three physical things about the opposite sex that appeal to me:
Smile
Hands
Legs
Three of my favorite hobbies:
Reading
Cooking
Reading cookbooks
Three things I want to do really badly right now:
Take a nap
Read a book
Continue avoiding housework
Three careers I’ve considered/I’m considering:
Librarian
Teacher (been there, done that)
Chef
Three Places I want to vacation:
Ireland
Mountains, in the fall (any mountains, anywhere, as long as there are pretty trees)
Spain
Three kid’s names I like:
(Not including the names of my own kids)
Sylvia
Timothy
Veronica
Three things I want to do before I die:
Read all the books I own
Organize my photo albums
Visit Ireland again
Three ways that I am stereotypically a girl:
Always worrying about what to wear
Change my mind a lot
Love shopping for shoes!
Three ways that I am stereotypically a boy:
Like to play with blocks, cars, trains
More of a "problem solver" than a sympathetic ear
Always want to have pockets in my clothes
Three celeb crushes:
None really
Three people I would like to see post this meme:
Jill
Rose, if she's not too busy nesting
Amy
Shameless
The things we do to get a link back to our blog....but I will tell a true story in the process!
Tonight I'll have the opportunity to attend Middle Sister's capoeira class. We live in an area with many recent immigrants from Brazil, and at our parish the Brazilians have opened a capoeira group. Capoeira is a Brazilian form of martial arts, combining music, self-defense, rhythm and dance. Middle Sister loves it and it's fun to watch her practice her moves like a ninja. There is a bit of culture shock, as most of the people in the class speak little English, and my Portuguese is limited to "good morning" and "thank you" as well as part of the "Hail Mary" but it doesn't seem to deter Middle Sister from having fun and learning a lot.
And while you're at it, check out my Frappr map, the latest blog fad! Tell me where YOU are!
Tonight I'll have the opportunity to attend Middle Sister's capoeira class. We live in an area with many recent immigrants from Brazil, and at our parish the Brazilians have opened a capoeira group. Capoeira is a Brazilian form of martial arts, combining music, self-defense, rhythm and dance. Middle Sister loves it and it's fun to watch her practice her moves like a ninja. There is a bit of culture shock, as most of the people in the class speak little English, and my Portuguese is limited to "good morning" and "thank you" as well as part of the "Hail Mary" but it doesn't seem to deter Middle Sister from having fun and learning a lot.
And while you're at it, check out my Frappr map, the latest blog fad! Tell me where YOU are!
Thursday, November 03, 2005
Parenthood...unconstitutional?
Cases like this are precisely why my family feels so strongly that we need local, committed, Catholic schools in our communities.
It's not that the public schools are substandard educationally, and that parochial schools are so much better--which I know is what the people in my neighborhood think. They have told us that we're nuts for paying to send our children to Catholic schools when the town schools are just fine.
It's that we want our children raised in the Catholic culture--in school AND at home. If there's going to be morality taught in the schools, and public schools do that, then we want to make sure just what morality is being taught. Obviously parents of public school children now have no recourse in such matters.
It's not that the public schools are substandard educationally, and that parochial schools are so much better--which I know is what the people in my neighborhood think. They have told us that we're nuts for paying to send our children to Catholic schools when the town schools are just fine.
It's that we want our children raised in the Catholic culture--in school AND at home. If there's going to be morality taught in the schools, and public schools do that, then we want to make sure just what morality is being taught. Obviously parents of public school children now have no recourse in such matters.
Wednesday, November 02, 2005
More American Girl Stuff
The American Girl company has moved links around on its website so it no longer links directly to Girls, Inc. but that's all that's changed. They claim that their donations are earmarked for education and sporting programs, but don't we all know that such restrictions on donations merely free up other unrestricted funds for the rest of Girls, Inc.'s activities?
Meanwhile, Rick Lugari reports that a Catholic school in Wisconsin has canceled a fund-raiser associated with American Girl. Kudos to the pastor there who is not afraid to take a stand!
Meanwhile, Rick Lugari reports that a Catholic school in Wisconsin has canceled a fund-raiser associated with American Girl. Kudos to the pastor there who is not afraid to take a stand!
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
From Today's Homily
Our associate pastor today gave a lovely homily about being a saint in the circumstances you find yourself in--whether you are a mother like St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, or a Pope, or a teacher and nurse like Blessed Mother Teresa.
He illustrated it with a cute story of how he, as a fifth-grade child in India preparing for First Communion, first heard the stories of many saints, especially child saints. He was taken with the story of the apparitions of the Blessed Mother in Fatima, and would climb a tree and pray for Mary to appear to him. Of course, she didn't. He grew to understand that it wasn't his place to copy someone else's approach to sainthood, but to find his own way.
I hope Father Gerald is the one to celebrate Mass with the school children later today, so my Big Kids and their fellow students can hear this wonderful message.
He illustrated it with a cute story of how he, as a fifth-grade child in India preparing for First Communion, first heard the stories of many saints, especially child saints. He was taken with the story of the apparitions of the Blessed Mother in Fatima, and would climb a tree and pray for Mary to appear to him. Of course, she didn't. He grew to understand that it wasn't his place to copy someone else's approach to sainthood, but to find his own way.
I hope Father Gerald is the one to celebrate Mass with the school children later today, so my Big Kids and their fellow students can hear this wonderful message.
Monday, October 31, 2005
Progress is overrated
When I was a kid, the "Charlie Brown" holiday specials were a special event in our house. We'd anxiously await the opportunity to stay up a little past bedtime and enjoy Snoopy's antics in anticipation of Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine's Day and Easter.
There were no VCRs, and if you missed the show, you missed it. You had to wait another year to see it. Our whole family would watch together and it was great family fun.
Today my children are fortunate enough to have a DVD player in the house, and we own DVDs of these Peanuts specials. They can watch them any time of year they want. They can watch them over and over again.
But owning a copy of these specials makes them a lot less "special." We don't all sit and cuddle on the couch and make popcorn and let it be an event--because it can happen any time.
I smiled yesterday as I cooked dinner and heard the Halloween special in the background--but it lost a little of its charm when Little Brother pulled out "It's the Easter Beagle, Charlie Brown" as a follow-up. To him, these are entertaining cartoons, not holiday events.
I think I'll have to hide that Easter Beagle until Holy Week. It's only right. Technology is lovely, but sometimes it robs a family of those special moments. I'll have to make it my business to make sure the special moments still happen.
There were no VCRs, and if you missed the show, you missed it. You had to wait another year to see it. Our whole family would watch together and it was great family fun.
Today my children are fortunate enough to have a DVD player in the house, and we own DVDs of these Peanuts specials. They can watch them any time of year they want. They can watch them over and over again.
But owning a copy of these specials makes them a lot less "special." We don't all sit and cuddle on the couch and make popcorn and let it be an event--because it can happen any time.
I smiled yesterday as I cooked dinner and heard the Halloween special in the background--but it lost a little of its charm when Little Brother pulled out "It's the Easter Beagle, Charlie Brown" as a follow-up. To him, these are entertaining cartoons, not holiday events.
I think I'll have to hide that Easter Beagle until Holy Week. It's only right. Technology is lovely, but sometimes it robs a family of those special moments. I'll have to make it my business to make sure the special moments still happen.
Sunday, October 30, 2005
Saturday, October 29, 2005
Distraction
Last night at our SFO Fraternity meeting we were discussing devotion to Mary, which naturally evolved into a conversation about the Rosary, and the Franciscan Crown.
One of our members asked Father how he can possibly get through his daily prayers without being distracted.
Of course she meant mental distractions, and he addressed those--and he did mention that sometimes at Mass, something might catch his eye (someone moving around, for example) and distract him from the prayers. At any rate, his advice was that when you are distracted at prayer, you should just pick up and keep going, not get discouraged, because it happens to everyone.
Here's where sometimes I miss having people my own age in the Fraternity. In my house there are different distractions than these women face. It's just about impossible to get up early enough in the morning to say Morning Prayer without a three-year-old for company, and he's pretty wiggly. This morning he was in and out of my lap, wanting to turn the markers in my book and look for pictures. Finally I distracted HIM with an old holy picture that had been my grandmother's.
It shows St. Francis and St. Anthony kneeling before the Blessed Mother. He informed me that St. Anthony was "Father." (Wouldn't Father love to hear THAT?)
Sometimes you go away from prayer with only the knowledge that you tried. This time I also went away with a bit of comic relief.
One of our members asked Father how he can possibly get through his daily prayers without being distracted.
Of course she meant mental distractions, and he addressed those--and he did mention that sometimes at Mass, something might catch his eye (someone moving around, for example) and distract him from the prayers. At any rate, his advice was that when you are distracted at prayer, you should just pick up and keep going, not get discouraged, because it happens to everyone.
Here's where sometimes I miss having people my own age in the Fraternity. In my house there are different distractions than these women face. It's just about impossible to get up early enough in the morning to say Morning Prayer without a three-year-old for company, and he's pretty wiggly. This morning he was in and out of my lap, wanting to turn the markers in my book and look for pictures. Finally I distracted HIM with an old holy picture that had been my grandmother's.
It shows St. Francis and St. Anthony kneeling before the Blessed Mother. He informed me that St. Anthony was "Father." (Wouldn't Father love to hear THAT?)
Sometimes you go away from prayer with only the knowledge that you tried. This time I also went away with a bit of comic relief.
Thursday, October 27, 2005
Halloween II
HA! You thought I was going to talk about horror movies, didn't you? Admit it!
Well, you were wrong.
This message is brought to you courtesy of Catholic Ragemonkey, where Fr. Shane wants to know what everyone's favorite Halloween candy is.
Because to me, it's all about the candy. I don't even dress up anymore, but I'm the mom, so I don't have to! Big Daddy treks the kids around the neighborhood where they collect enough candy to keep our dentist busy for the next year, and afterwards they sort it out and sometimes share with me.
As they get older they get less selective about what kind of candy they will eat, so for Mom the pickings have been getting pretty slim of late. Good for my waistline (which hasn't been getting any slimmer) but not so good for my tastebuds!
Given the choice of the traditional Halloween offerings, my hands-down favorite is Milky Ways. And the new DARK Milky Ways are a bonus!
I think Milky Ways for me are a nostalgia candy. My grandmother used to keep a bag of them (snack size) in the fruit drawer of her refrigerator. When we visited, we could have 1 or 2. My mom would go through half the bag in an afternoon. We, being kids, were not allowed to eat candy to such excess. But Milky Ways bring me back to Saturday afternoons at Nanny's house, coloring, and drinking Coke out of Dixie Riddle cups at the kitchen table while Nanny said her prayers. Good times.
Well, you were wrong.
This message is brought to you courtesy of Catholic Ragemonkey, where Fr. Shane wants to know what everyone's favorite Halloween candy is.
Because to me, it's all about the candy. I don't even dress up anymore, but I'm the mom, so I don't have to! Big Daddy treks the kids around the neighborhood where they collect enough candy to keep our dentist busy for the next year, and afterwards they sort it out and sometimes share with me.
As they get older they get less selective about what kind of candy they will eat, so for Mom the pickings have been getting pretty slim of late. Good for my waistline (which hasn't been getting any slimmer) but not so good for my tastebuds!
Given the choice of the traditional Halloween offerings, my hands-down favorite is Milky Ways. And the new DARK Milky Ways are a bonus!
I think Milky Ways for me are a nostalgia candy. My grandmother used to keep a bag of them (snack size) in the fruit drawer of her refrigerator. When we visited, we could have 1 or 2. My mom would go through half the bag in an afternoon. We, being kids, were not allowed to eat candy to such excess. But Milky Ways bring me back to Saturday afternoons at Nanny's house, coloring, and drinking Coke out of Dixie Riddle cups at the kitchen table while Nanny said her prayers. Good times.
Monday, October 24, 2005
It was quiet in the house.
The kids were all home, and it was quiet in the house. And NOBODY was sleeping!
Big Brother was drawing a map for a future Dungeons and Dragons game. He sat on the living room floor surrounded by pens, pencils, binders, graph paper, Tolkien books and Dungeons and Dragons books.
Middle Sister was doing her homework. She had pushed all the stuff that was already on the coffee table over to one side (a Stratego game that Little Brother had taken apart, a Topple game--toppled, an old church bulletin, a Philadelphia Eagles hat, and a coloring book) and scattered her homework paraphernalia in the space she had cleared off.
Little Brother had abandoned his block tower in the living room, which had tipped over and which he had adorned with his shoes, for pieces of an old Axis and Allies board game in the family room. He was setting up all the little tiny "guys" and pieces of military equipment all over the map.
It was a perfect time for Mom (that's me!) to put her feet up and read for a bit. And so I did.
Ahhhhh....
Big Brother was drawing a map for a future Dungeons and Dragons game. He sat on the living room floor surrounded by pens, pencils, binders, graph paper, Tolkien books and Dungeons and Dragons books.
Middle Sister was doing her homework. She had pushed all the stuff that was already on the coffee table over to one side (a Stratego game that Little Brother had taken apart, a Topple game--toppled, an old church bulletin, a Philadelphia Eagles hat, and a coloring book) and scattered her homework paraphernalia in the space she had cleared off.
Little Brother had abandoned his block tower in the living room, which had tipped over and which he had adorned with his shoes, for pieces of an old Axis and Allies board game in the family room. He was setting up all the little tiny "guys" and pieces of military equipment all over the map.
It was a perfect time for Mom (that's me!) to put her feet up and read for a bit. And so I did.
Ahhhhh....
Friday, October 21, 2005
What is....
...the proper parental response to: "Is there a woodle in my straw?"
(We had spaghetti for dinner tonight, and "woodle" is Little Brother's term for "noodle.")
Middle Sister heard this question from another room and yelled, "That's nasty!"
My sentiments exactly.
I do NOT wish to go over there and inspect the straw.
(We had spaghetti for dinner tonight, and "woodle" is Little Brother's term for "noodle.")
Middle Sister heard this question from another room and yelled, "That's nasty!"
My sentiments exactly.
I do NOT wish to go over there and inspect the straw.
Alphabetical Order
Little Brother, at 3 1/2, is beginning to learn the alphabet.
It's very charming, actually.
He approaches it differently from the Big Kids, who insisted on learning the letters IN ORDER, and who'd restart endlessly if they got derailed: A, B, C, D, E, F, G....A, B, C, D....
Little Brother has his own way of doing things.
Order doesn't matter in the alphabet. Naming all the letters, more than once if necessary, while singing the alphabet tune, is ALL that matters.
A, B, C, D, E, F, J, Y, J, K, M, N, N, O, G, Q, R, X, Y and G, 18, 17, 16....
Yes, there are numbers in there too. Little Brother marches to the beat of a different drummer.
There's time enough for him to learn the letters in their proper order. He's having fun with it now, and I'm going to let him.
It's very charming, actually.
He approaches it differently from the Big Kids, who insisted on learning the letters IN ORDER, and who'd restart endlessly if they got derailed: A, B, C, D, E, F, G....A, B, C, D....
Little Brother has his own way of doing things.
Order doesn't matter in the alphabet. Naming all the letters, more than once if necessary, while singing the alphabet tune, is ALL that matters.
A, B, C, D, E, F, J, Y, J, K, M, N, N, O, G, Q, R, X, Y and G, 18, 17, 16....
Yes, there are numbers in there too. Little Brother marches to the beat of a different drummer.
There's time enough for him to learn the letters in their proper order. He's having fun with it now, and I'm going to let him.
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
Halloween
There's been a lot of blogging on Halloween these days. I'll revisit the philosophical issues later, if I can find something interesting to say that hasn't been said already, or possibly I'll just direct whoever's reading here to some of my favorite posts elsewhere.
Anyway, I just read over at Catholic Packer Fan about his family's Halloween, which sounds a LOT like mine.
There is mention of big kids with no costumes. That's something that really drives me bananas. It doesn't happen here much, but it happened in the town we moved from 8 years ago. We saw a lot of teenagers without costumes or even a mask--just a pillowcase or backpack.
The first year, I just asked them where their costume was while giving them a piece of candy.
The next year, I was ready for my own private revenge. I had TWO bowls of candy to give out: one for anyone who wore a costume, and one for the "we're too cool for costumes but still want free candy" crowd.
Having taught in middle school and high school, I am well aware of the usefulness of Jolly Rancher candy to the students who like to sneak a little something sweet during class. They do not all know that Jolly Rancher makes "Fire Stix" which are cinnamon flavored and, well, not as hot as an Atomic Fireball, but still pack a good punch. But they're red, like Cherry Stix.
I gave any costume-free teenagers a nice handful of Fire Stix that year, and they were thrilled to get them. I was thanked profusely, and I smiled as I savored the thought of what would happen when they tried to sneak one of THOSE in math class the next morning.
Anyway, I just read over at Catholic Packer Fan about his family's Halloween, which sounds a LOT like mine.
There is mention of big kids with no costumes. That's something that really drives me bananas. It doesn't happen here much, but it happened in the town we moved from 8 years ago. We saw a lot of teenagers without costumes or even a mask--just a pillowcase or backpack.
The first year, I just asked them where their costume was while giving them a piece of candy.
The next year, I was ready for my own private revenge. I had TWO bowls of candy to give out: one for anyone who wore a costume, and one for the "we're too cool for costumes but still want free candy" crowd.
Having taught in middle school and high school, I am well aware of the usefulness of Jolly Rancher candy to the students who like to sneak a little something sweet during class. They do not all know that Jolly Rancher makes "Fire Stix" which are cinnamon flavored and, well, not as hot as an Atomic Fireball, but still pack a good punch. But they're red, like Cherry Stix.
I gave any costume-free teenagers a nice handful of Fire Stix that year, and they were thrilled to get them. I was thanked profusely, and I smiled as I savored the thought of what would happen when they tried to sneak one of THOSE in math class the next morning.
An Open Letter
To: the manager of the Rental Center near my home
Ever since you opened the Rental Center here, my family has enjoyed looking at your sign, with its funny and sometimes thought-provoking messages.
That is, until the current sign was posted.
At first glance, the message is humorous: The gene pool could use a little chlorine.
Think about that, though.
Such a message implies that there are certain people who should not be allowed to reproduce.
THAT smacks of eugenics, with its assumption that some people are expendable.
After all, Hitler would completely agree with your message. He wished to completely eradicate certain genes from the gene pool.
As Catholics, my family holds firm to the belief that NO people are expendable. Everyone matters. Everyone is entitled to life and the dignity that belongs with it.
How ironic that the sign on the reverse of this one reads: To belittle is to be little.
Isn't that exactly what you are doing in posting that the gene pool could use some chlorine--belittling someone? Granted, we don't know whom, but it's someone.
I hope that we'll be seeing a different message on one side of your sign soon. But keep the one about belittling--that's a message we could all stand to see more of.
Ever since you opened the Rental Center here, my family has enjoyed looking at your sign, with its funny and sometimes thought-provoking messages.
That is, until the current sign was posted.
At first glance, the message is humorous: The gene pool could use a little chlorine.
Think about that, though.
Such a message implies that there are certain people who should not be allowed to reproduce.
THAT smacks of eugenics, with its assumption that some people are expendable.
After all, Hitler would completely agree with your message. He wished to completely eradicate certain genes from the gene pool.
As Catholics, my family holds firm to the belief that NO people are expendable. Everyone matters. Everyone is entitled to life and the dignity that belongs with it.
How ironic that the sign on the reverse of this one reads: To belittle is to be little.
Isn't that exactly what you are doing in posting that the gene pool could use some chlorine--belittling someone? Granted, we don't know whom, but it's someone.
I hope that we'll be seeing a different message on one side of your sign soon. But keep the one about belittling--that's a message we could all stand to see more of.
Monday, October 17, 2005
Dinner--AND a Show
After dinner, Middle Sister decided to practice her keyboard lesson on the organ in the dining room.
We were serenaded with bits of "Silent Night."
Then she started rummaging around in the organ bench looking for some sheet music, and asked me if I had any Christmas music in there. I told her what book to look for.
She thumbed through it and observed that she had never before seen a Christmas carol book that didn't contain "The Little Drummer Boy."
I had to tell her that most of them don't....
So she played a bit of it by ear on the organ, and did a fairly nice job. She told me she had learned it at keyboard today, without even being taught. Whatever THAT means.
I promised to look through the rest of my music and find the song for her.
Then it was back to "Silent Night."
I asked her, "So what IS in your lesson for this week?"
Her reply: "Lesson?"
LONG pause. TOO long.
"Oh, THAT!"
I resisted the urge to ask her, "You were AT your lesson today, right?" Give Sarcastic Mommy 5 points for stuffing a sock in it!
She mispronounced "Study in G Major" in a manner that I cannot duplicate using a normal keyboard and then proceeded to abandon the whole thing in favor of "Silent Night."
I have to wonder what this kid is like at keyboard lessons!
We were serenaded with bits of "Silent Night."
Then she started rummaging around in the organ bench looking for some sheet music, and asked me if I had any Christmas music in there. I told her what book to look for.
She thumbed through it and observed that she had never before seen a Christmas carol book that didn't contain "The Little Drummer Boy."
I had to tell her that most of them don't....
So she played a bit of it by ear on the organ, and did a fairly nice job. She told me she had learned it at keyboard today, without even being taught. Whatever THAT means.
I promised to look through the rest of my music and find the song for her.
Then it was back to "Silent Night."
I asked her, "So what IS in your lesson for this week?"
Her reply: "Lesson?"
LONG pause. TOO long.
"Oh, THAT!"
I resisted the urge to ask her, "You were AT your lesson today, right?" Give Sarcastic Mommy 5 points for stuffing a sock in it!
She mispronounced "Study in G Major" in a manner that I cannot duplicate using a normal keyboard and then proceeded to abandon the whole thing in favor of "Silent Night."
I have to wonder what this kid is like at keyboard lessons!
Things Moms Say
"Candy corn is NOT a vegetable!"
OK, I know. I wish it were a vegetable too. But I have to keep that wish a secret from my kids.
OK, I know. I wish it were a vegetable too. But I have to keep that wish a secret from my kids.
Saturday, October 15, 2005
Sigh...
So much for that perfect day.
That Notre Dame game was a real heartbreaker.
I predict that there will be a lot of chocolate consumed in this house tonight.
Sigh...
That Notre Dame game was a real heartbreaker.
I predict that there will be a lot of chocolate consumed in this house tonight.
Sigh...
Oh, what a beautiful morning
It's a lovely day. 64 degrees and FINALLY sunny! The sky is blue and clear and there's a gentle breeze blowing the first leaves of fall around the backyard.
I've been enjoying a good cup of coffee and hanging laundry on the clothesline for the first time in 10 days. If I had to pick a favorite household chore (not including cooking), hanging out laundry would definitely be it.
If Notre Dame wins this afternoon, today will be pretty near perfect.
I've been enjoying a good cup of coffee and hanging laundry on the clothesline for the first time in 10 days. If I had to pick a favorite household chore (not including cooking), hanging out laundry would definitely be it.
If Notre Dame wins this afternoon, today will be pretty near perfect.
Thursday, October 13, 2005
Marriage and Priesthood....yes, you heard me right...
The Curt Jester presents his petition for Married Priesthood. Check it out!
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
Marriage and Parenthood and Selfishness
Here's a great post at Living Catholicism on the nature of selfishness as seen by a husband and dad.
It's worth the read--and so is the comment by Philothea Rose!
It's worth the read--and so is the comment by Philothea Rose!
Monday, October 10, 2005
Good to be Bad? Hip to be Square?
I was folding laundry this afternoon and I noticed, once again, the message embroidered on a fleece sweatshirt belonging to Middle Sister. "Angel with an Attitude: Don't Let the Halo Fool You."
It's cute, and even a little clever.
But I have to wonder, what are we teaching our kids when we let them wear stuff like this?
In my early teaching days, Bart Simpson was new....and the kids were wearing "Bart Simpson: Underachiever" T-shirts. The sad part was, these kids WERE the underachievers! Why is this something they'd want to advertise?
When we were down the shore this summer (yes, I'm a Jersey Girl, we go "down the shore") I browsed in a T-shirt store and saw some of those shorts with words on the butt. Those are offensive to me no matter what they say--but these shorts said a word that I cannot print here, since this is a "family" blog, a word that has 5 letters and begins with B. Certainly this is not a word that most women would be proud to be called.
Same with the glittery tees that proclaim, "Spoiled Rotten."
That's a GOOD thing?
I'm well aware that anyone reading something on someone else's butt is not expecting to see a commentary on the wearer's intelligence, but couldn't we have some more positive messages on the clothing for a change?
It's cute, and even a little clever.
But I have to wonder, what are we teaching our kids when we let them wear stuff like this?
In my early teaching days, Bart Simpson was new....and the kids were wearing "Bart Simpson: Underachiever" T-shirts. The sad part was, these kids WERE the underachievers! Why is this something they'd want to advertise?
When we were down the shore this summer (yes, I'm a Jersey Girl, we go "down the shore") I browsed in a T-shirt store and saw some of those shorts with words on the butt. Those are offensive to me no matter what they say--but these shorts said a word that I cannot print here, since this is a "family" blog, a word that has 5 letters and begins with B. Certainly this is not a word that most women would be proud to be called.
Same with the glittery tees that proclaim, "Spoiled Rotten."
That's a GOOD thing?
I'm well aware that anyone reading something on someone else's butt is not expecting to see a commentary on the wearer's intelligence, but couldn't we have some more positive messages on the clothing for a change?
Preach Always....If Necessary, Use Words
Philothea Rose has a post today that hits me where I live.
If I do not always set the example I should, and I do not always say the things I should either, then I am doing an injustice to others. I guess what it all boils down to is--am I doing my best to do these things? Or am I weighing whether it would be easier NOT to do these things? This is not to say that I should wear any little bit of holiness that I might have on my sleeve for all to admire--but that I certainly should not be afraid and hide that light under a bushel. It's not about doing the right thing for praise or recognition--it's about doing the right thing because it's the right thing to do.
Easier said than done. May God give us the grace to preach always.
I think Francis' Prayer Before the Cross is appropriate here:
Most high, all glorious, all-good God,
Bring light to the darkness of my heart.
Give me right faith, certain hope, and perfect charity,
With wisdom and insight, O Lord,
That I might always discern
Your holy and true will.
If I do not always set the example I should, and I do not always say the things I should either, then I am doing an injustice to others. I guess what it all boils down to is--am I doing my best to do these things? Or am I weighing whether it would be easier NOT to do these things? This is not to say that I should wear any little bit of holiness that I might have on my sleeve for all to admire--but that I certainly should not be afraid and hide that light under a bushel. It's not about doing the right thing for praise or recognition--it's about doing the right thing because it's the right thing to do.
Easier said than done. May God give us the grace to preach always.
I think Francis' Prayer Before the Cross is appropriate here:
Most high, all glorious, all-good God,
Bring light to the darkness of my heart.
Give me right faith, certain hope, and perfect charity,
With wisdom and insight, O Lord,
That I might always discern
Your holy and true will.
It's Yoda that Matters
"A venerated sage with vast power and knowledge, you gently guide forces around you while serving as a champion of the light.
Judge me by my size, do you? And well you should not - for my ally is the Force. And a powerful ally it is. Life greets it, makes it grow. Its energy surrounds us, and binds us. Luminescent beings are we, not this crude matter! You must feel the Force around you, everywhere."
Big Brother has told me so....so he'd be proud of my results!
(And does this mean that Little Brother wants to masquerade as ME on Halloween?)
Via Happy Catholic.
Sunday, October 09, 2005
What kind of Catholic am I?
| You scored as New Catholic. The years following the Second Vatican Council was a time of collapse of the Catholic faith and its traditions. But you are a young person who has rediscovered this lost faith, probably due to the evangelization of Pope John Paul II. You are enthusiastic, refreshing, and somewhat traditional, and you may be considering a vocation to the priesthood or religious life. You reject relativism and the decline in society that you see among your peers. You are seen as being good for the Church. A possible problem is that you may have a too narrow a view of orthodoxy, and anyway, you are still a youth and not yet mature in your faith. |
What is your style of American Catholicism?
created with QuizFarm.com
OK, well, maybe....some of the questions were pretty "out there" and the names are odd, but this description does fit me quite well.
Via Flos Carmeli.
I'm a WHAT?
You Are A: Turtle!
These reptiles, famous for their hard outer shells, spent their days roaming for food and relaxing in the water. As a turtle you are not very speedy, nor are you soft and cuddly. You tend to hide in your shell and you aren't much of a sprinter, but you are quite tough. You also happen to be as cute as you are fascinating.You were almost a: Chipmunk or a Groundhog
You are least like a: Duck or a SquirrelCute Animal Quiz!
I like turtles and all, but they walk SO DARN SLOW!
Via Happy Catholic.
Friday, October 07, 2005
Sweet, but silly
I got a bag of Dove mini chocolates (on sale, with coupons, if you know me you know the drill here).
I'm betting that I'm like most moms and hide my "secret stash" of chocolate from the kids....so today when I was near the Secret Chocolate Hiding Place I opened up this bag of little Dove candies.
Guess I haven't had one of THESE in a while. They are like New Age Fortune Cookies! When you unwrap the foil you see a little message like "Go to your special place" or "Make your eyes twinkle."
HUH?
It can't just be about enjoying a good piece of chocolate? It has to be a "personal indulgence" that I somehow "deserve" because of everything I do all day? Is this a candy bar or a woman's magazine?
Here's the way I think about it. The candy should be good on its own. It should be something I want to savor because it is delicious, and a treat--not because of any silly directions on the wrapper.
I'm betting that I'm like most moms and hide my "secret stash" of chocolate from the kids....so today when I was near the Secret Chocolate Hiding Place I opened up this bag of little Dove candies.
Guess I haven't had one of THESE in a while. They are like New Age Fortune Cookies! When you unwrap the foil you see a little message like "Go to your special place" or "Make your eyes twinkle."
HUH?
It can't just be about enjoying a good piece of chocolate? It has to be a "personal indulgence" that I somehow "deserve" because of everything I do all day? Is this a candy bar or a woman's magazine?
Here's the way I think about it. The candy should be good on its own. It should be something I want to savor because it is delicious, and a treat--not because of any silly directions on the wrapper.
Thursday, October 06, 2005
NOT cool, American Girl!
This evening I have been reading about how The American Girl company (you know, the one that makes "wholesome" toys and modest clothing for your little girls) has partnered up with Girls, Inc., whose website makes it quite clear that this group is little more than Planned Parenthood for Preteens.
Danielle Bean and The Summa Mammas have both given more information and links on their blogs.
Write or call the company and join me in expressing your displeasure with this little joint venture of theirs. Any company whose target customer is under 12 really doesn't need to be dealing with an abortion advocacy group....and that's just the tip of the Girls, Inc. iceberg.
Danielle Bean and The Summa Mammas have both given more information and links on their blogs.
Write or call the company and join me in expressing your displeasure with this little joint venture of theirs. Any company whose target customer is under 12 really doesn't need to be dealing with an abortion advocacy group....and that's just the tip of the Girls, Inc. iceberg.
When Worlds Collide II
It's been the kind of week where I take time to think about how I live my life as a Franciscan layperson.
Am I wasteful? Am I a "good steward" of what I have been given, using my abilities as well as material possessions in a wise and good way? Have I become too used to those "creature comforts" and little luxuries that have come my way?
Ouch.
This morning I drove Middle Sister to school, since she was running too late for the bus. It was chilly out. Our new van has leather seats, and she suggested testing out the "heated front seat" feature that, having bought the van during the summer, we have yet to try.
Let me tell you, if my wireless Internet signal would reach the driveway, I'd probably never leave that van again. It has more cupholders than passenger seating, satellite radio, AND bun-warmers!
So what was I saying about those creature comforts?
Right. Ouch.
I've got a long way to go, and I probably shouldn't turn on the bun-warmers for the journey.
Am I wasteful? Am I a "good steward" of what I have been given, using my abilities as well as material possessions in a wise and good way? Have I become too used to those "creature comforts" and little luxuries that have come my way?
Ouch.
This morning I drove Middle Sister to school, since she was running too late for the bus. It was chilly out. Our new van has leather seats, and she suggested testing out the "heated front seat" feature that, having bought the van during the summer, we have yet to try.
Let me tell you, if my wireless Internet signal would reach the driveway, I'd probably never leave that van again. It has more cupholders than passenger seating, satellite radio, AND bun-warmers!
So what was I saying about those creature comforts?
Right. Ouch.
I've got a long way to go, and I probably shouldn't turn on the bun-warmers for the journey.
Tuesday, October 04, 2005
Transitus....a tribute
One of our Secular Franciscans made her own Transitus last night. She passed away about 9 PM, just after we all finished praying our Transitus at chuch.
Because she was living in an assisted-living home during her time as an SFO, I did not know her very well. She was in my formation group, and reminded me very much of my grandmother (physically and spiritually). She was the aunt of one of our other SFOs, and we all called her "Aunt" as well. She contributed much to our formation meetings and was very well-read. She was happy to recommend and share her favorite spiritual books.
At my own profession (four years ago today) it was my privilege to sit next to this lovely lady. She was near 90 but sharp as a tack. However, she had trouble standing up once she was sitting, and I would help her up when she needed to stand, and walked beside her when we left the pew. It was like being at church with my grandmother, who shared the same first name with her, and who was a Franciscan Associate herself. They were both Irish and both very devoted to the Blessed Mother.
Three years ago, instead of praying at Transitus, I was at my grandmother's wake.
Last night our sister in Francis joined my grandmother in Heaven. I have no doubt that these two devout women are both there, and they're probably praying a rosary together.
Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord,
And may perpetual light shine on her.
May her soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, though the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Because she was living in an assisted-living home during her time as an SFO, I did not know her very well. She was in my formation group, and reminded me very much of my grandmother (physically and spiritually). She was the aunt of one of our other SFOs, and we all called her "Aunt" as well. She contributed much to our formation meetings and was very well-read. She was happy to recommend and share her favorite spiritual books.
At my own profession (four years ago today) it was my privilege to sit next to this lovely lady. She was near 90 but sharp as a tack. However, she had trouble standing up once she was sitting, and I would help her up when she needed to stand, and walked beside her when we left the pew. It was like being at church with my grandmother, who shared the same first name with her, and who was a Franciscan Associate herself. They were both Irish and both very devoted to the Blessed Mother.
Three years ago, instead of praying at Transitus, I was at my grandmother's wake.
Last night our sister in Francis joined my grandmother in Heaven. I have no doubt that these two devout women are both there, and they're probably praying a rosary together.
Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord,
And may perpetual light shine on her.
May her soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, though the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Monday, October 03, 2005
SFO News
Our Secular Franciscan Fraternity will be celebrating two days of great solemnity and rejoicing.
Today we mark the Transitus of Francis of Assisi: his passage from earthly life into everlasting life. All members of the Franciscan family (priests, Sisters and seculars) celebrate this occasion with a special service that recalls to us how Francis was a light to the world and how we are called to be a light to our world.
Tomorrow is the Feast of Saint Francis and our Fraternity is blessed to be celebrating the Profession of our newest member tomorrow. The Secular Franciscan Order, founded by Saint Francis, is a community of lay people desiring to live the ideals of a Franciscan life based on the Gospels, in the way of simplicity in our own families, workplaces and world.
Please keep our new member and all Franciscans in your prayers as we strive to live out the call to be simple servants of God.
Today we mark the Transitus of Francis of Assisi: his passage from earthly life into everlasting life. All members of the Franciscan family (priests, Sisters and seculars) celebrate this occasion with a special service that recalls to us how Francis was a light to the world and how we are called to be a light to our world.
Tomorrow is the Feast of Saint Francis and our Fraternity is blessed to be celebrating the Profession of our newest member tomorrow. The Secular Franciscan Order, founded by Saint Francis, is a community of lay people desiring to live the ideals of a Franciscan life based on the Gospels, in the way of simplicity in our own families, workplaces and world.
Please keep our new member and all Franciscans in your prayers as we strive to live out the call to be simple servants of God.
Sunday, October 02, 2005
The 5 Idiosyncracies Meme
The 5 Idiosyncracies of Me(me)
I was tagged by Epiphany for this one. Are you SURE you want to know all my bizarre little behaviors?
1. When I drink tea or coffee out of a mug (rather than my usual travel "sippy cup" with lid) I have to leave the spoon in it, which never fails to alarm my dining companions who think I will poke my eye out despite the fact that my glasses act as a protective shield against any utensil impact.
2. I have a really neat Coca-Cola glass. I like to drink Pepsi out of it.
3. I can multi-task but I cannot multi-noise. If the radio is on in one room, I don't like to hear the TV in the other room. Add to that talking on the phone, and a child talking to me...I lose it.
4. I like to sleep with the windows OPEN and a big pile of covers on. The heavier the better. I have a heavy wool blanket that I fold double thick and put on my side of the bed.
5. When I eat small candies like M&Ms or jelly beans, that come in different colors (not necessarily flavors) I eat them 2 by 2, sorting out by color. I don't like to have odd leftovers so if I have 3 yellows I will eat all 3 at once, then move to another color.
TAG!
Jill at jillswritestuff
Amy at RC Mommy
Steve at Song of November
Rachel at Testosterhome
I was tagged by Epiphany for this one. Are you SURE you want to know all my bizarre little behaviors?
1. When I drink tea or coffee out of a mug (rather than my usual travel "sippy cup" with lid) I have to leave the spoon in it, which never fails to alarm my dining companions who think I will poke my eye out despite the fact that my glasses act as a protective shield against any utensil impact.
2. I have a really neat Coca-Cola glass. I like to drink Pepsi out of it.
3. I can multi-task but I cannot multi-noise. If the radio is on in one room, I don't like to hear the TV in the other room. Add to that talking on the phone, and a child talking to me...I lose it.
4. I like to sleep with the windows OPEN and a big pile of covers on. The heavier the better. I have a heavy wool blanket that I fold double thick and put on my side of the bed.
5. When I eat small candies like M&Ms or jelly beans, that come in different colors (not necessarily flavors) I eat them 2 by 2, sorting out by color. I don't like to have odd leftovers so if I have 3 yellows I will eat all 3 at once, then move to another color.
TAG!
Jill at jillswritestuff
Amy at RC Mommy
Steve at Song of November
Rachel at Testosterhome
When Worlds Collide
You have to be a parent to have experienced this, or something like it!
I was trying very hard to concentrate on Morning Prayer today, as Little Brother was engrossed in an early-morning screening of a "Veggie Tales" video.
It's extremely difficult to concentrate on a psalm while you listen to produce warbling, "There's a hole in the bottom of the sea...."
I don't recommend that you try this method of enhancing your Prayer Experience. But if you're a parent, sometimes it's the only way to go. There'll be more than enough quiet later.
I was trying very hard to concentrate on Morning Prayer today, as Little Brother was engrossed in an early-morning screening of a "Veggie Tales" video.
It's extremely difficult to concentrate on a psalm while you listen to produce warbling, "There's a hole in the bottom of the sea...."
I don't recommend that you try this method of enhancing your Prayer Experience. But if you're a parent, sometimes it's the only way to go. There'll be more than enough quiet later.
Friday, September 30, 2005
Another 5-Things Meme
I've been tagged by Steve for this one.
5 things I plan to do before I die:
-visit Ireland with my family
-learn to play the organ
-live in a Victorian house with a big front porch
-visit the University of Notre Dame with my family & watch a home football game
-read all the books I own
5 things I can do:
-cook and bake
-teach English and Spanish
-play Trivial Pursuit really well
-hold a grudge
-multi-task
5 things I cannot do:
-play a wind instrument
-speak or sing in public without blushing
-sports
-finish the crossword puzzle in the Sunday paper
-keep my kids from doing that stupid stuff kids do no matter how hard their parents try to keep them from doing it!
5 things that attract me to the opposite sex:
-sense of humor
-intelligence
-strength of conviction
And the more shallow things:
-nice eyes
-strong hands
5 things I say most often:
-The Great Oz has spoken.
-Hit the road, Jack.
-Get out of my chair!!!!
-That's just WRONG.
-LUKE!!!!
5 celebrity crushes:
I have to say that I'm pretty uninterested in celebrities. So they're famous & rich? So what?
5 things I plan to do before I die:
-visit Ireland with my family
-learn to play the organ
-live in a Victorian house with a big front porch
-visit the University of Notre Dame with my family & watch a home football game
-read all the books I own
5 things I can do:
-cook and bake
-teach English and Spanish
-play Trivial Pursuit really well
-hold a grudge
-multi-task
5 things I cannot do:
-play a wind instrument
-speak or sing in public without blushing
-sports
-finish the crossword puzzle in the Sunday paper
-keep my kids from doing that stupid stuff kids do no matter how hard their parents try to keep them from doing it!
5 things that attract me to the opposite sex:
-sense of humor
-intelligence
-strength of conviction
And the more shallow things:
-nice eyes
-strong hands
5 things I say most often:
-The Great Oz has spoken.
-Hit the road, Jack.
-Get out of my chair!!!!
-That's just WRONG.
-LUKE!!!!
5 celebrity crushes:
I have to say that I'm pretty uninterested in celebrities. So they're famous & rich? So what?
Thursday, September 29, 2005
Huh?
My Big Kids were watching a movie this morning after getting ready for school. Normally I don't allow this, but I hadn't had my coffee yet and it just wasn't on my radar screen.
Middle Sister walked out the door at the right time to catch the bus. Big Brother stood there, leaning on the back of the couch, watching. Then I passed by him on my way to the laundry area, and he said, "I think I just heard my bus leave." He peeked out the door and sure enough, Middle Sister was gone. She hadn't asked the driver to honk for her brother, she JUST LEFT HIM.
Needless to say, that movie has been put back in its little Netflix envelope and dropped in the mail.
I can't wait to hear Middle Sister's answer when I ask her why she left her brother behind.
And this Mommy will be much more forceful about the "No TV Before School" rule.
Middle Sister walked out the door at the right time to catch the bus. Big Brother stood there, leaning on the back of the couch, watching. Then I passed by him on my way to the laundry area, and he said, "I think I just heard my bus leave." He peeked out the door and sure enough, Middle Sister was gone. She hadn't asked the driver to honk for her brother, she JUST LEFT HIM.
Needless to say, that movie has been put back in its little Netflix envelope and dropped in the mail.
I can't wait to hear Middle Sister's answer when I ask her why she left her brother behind.
And this Mommy will be much more forceful about the "No TV Before School" rule.
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
I'm not sure whether to laugh or cry
Der Tomissar has a wonderfully funny post about a very serious subject: church architecture/design.
I want a Catholic one, myself.
Can't find too many in my neighborhood, though--but luckily they are not as bad as this.
I want a Catholic one, myself.
Can't find too many in my neighborhood, though--but luckily they are not as bad as this.
It's Not Only Me
One of the blogs I read regularly has a post today describing a just-under-4 little boy.
Rachel could have been talking about Little Brother! It was kind of spooky, but in a good way. It's so nice to know you're not alone.
Little Brother is 3 1/2. It's a good age, but he is heavy into that seesaw of "do it for myself" and "get Mommy to do it for me." Sometimes he wants to go potty alone. Other times he needs an audience--"I have to go potty. ME AND YOU, MOM!" He's not too great at eating with a fork but he can build a block tower, set up tiny little army guys, throw (and sometimes catch) a football, and self-pitch a wiffle ball and hit it across the neighbor's yard. He's becoming aware of people's moods and when he draws people on his Magna-Doodle he is sure to inform his audience that this person is happy, or mad. Usually they're happy. He still can't pronounce "vanilla" and "noodle" properly, but he can say "infiltrator."
Best of all, I'm really enjoying him at this wonderful, exasperating, challenging, funny, loving, cute, crazy stage of his life.
Rachel could have been talking about Little Brother! It was kind of spooky, but in a good way. It's so nice to know you're not alone.
Little Brother is 3 1/2. It's a good age, but he is heavy into that seesaw of "do it for myself" and "get Mommy to do it for me." Sometimes he wants to go potty alone. Other times he needs an audience--"I have to go potty. ME AND YOU, MOM!" He's not too great at eating with a fork but he can build a block tower, set up tiny little army guys, throw (and sometimes catch) a football, and self-pitch a wiffle ball and hit it across the neighbor's yard. He's becoming aware of people's moods and when he draws people on his Magna-Doodle he is sure to inform his audience that this person is happy, or mad. Usually they're happy. He still can't pronounce "vanilla" and "noodle" properly, but he can say "infiltrator."
Best of all, I'm really enjoying him at this wonderful, exasperating, challenging, funny, loving, cute, crazy stage of his life.
Thursday, September 22, 2005
War Zone
My family room looks like a war zone right now.
Toys are all over the place--but the chaos is strangely organized.
Yesterday afternoon there were five children in my house, ranging from 3 to 13, ALL engaged TOGETHER in a strategic plan to turn the family room into a battlefield. There's a map drawn by Middle Sister who misspelled her friend's name (and it's only 4 letters long) but correctly inscribed "BLITZKRIEG" in a different spot. I suspect that Big Brother, who shares Big Daddy's keen interest in all things World War II, had something to do with that.
There are tiny little army guys, something that Little Brother insists are "shotguns" but are probably supposed to be cannons, miniature battleships, teeny warplanes and the odd helicopter.
Everyone was reasonably quiet, and no one was fighting.
The game was abandoned early, when the kids heard another neighbor family come outside to play after they finished dinner. Everyone immediately congregated in that yard (Big Brother in head-to-toe camouflage) to play the traditional game of "Infiltrators."
This game is fun for all ages. The Big Kids try to climb over the back fence into the neighbors' yard without being detected by the Little Kids (anyone under 6). When the Little Kids to spot them, they begin chasing the Big Kids around the yard, shrieking "Infiltrators!" The object of the game is to capture the Infiltrators and incarcerate them in the neighbors' Little Tykes Barbie Play House. They can play this game for hours. Ours is probably the only neighborhood with a child under two whose vocabulary includes the word "infiltrators."
Toys are all over the place--but the chaos is strangely organized.
Yesterday afternoon there were five children in my house, ranging from 3 to 13, ALL engaged TOGETHER in a strategic plan to turn the family room into a battlefield. There's a map drawn by Middle Sister who misspelled her friend's name (and it's only 4 letters long) but correctly inscribed "BLITZKRIEG" in a different spot. I suspect that Big Brother, who shares Big Daddy's keen interest in all things World War II, had something to do with that.
There are tiny little army guys, something that Little Brother insists are "shotguns" but are probably supposed to be cannons, miniature battleships, teeny warplanes and the odd helicopter.
Everyone was reasonably quiet, and no one was fighting.
The game was abandoned early, when the kids heard another neighbor family come outside to play after they finished dinner. Everyone immediately congregated in that yard (Big Brother in head-to-toe camouflage) to play the traditional game of "Infiltrators."
This game is fun for all ages. The Big Kids try to climb over the back fence into the neighbors' yard without being detected by the Little Kids (anyone under 6). When the Little Kids to spot them, they begin chasing the Big Kids around the yard, shrieking "Infiltrators!" The object of the game is to capture the Infiltrators and incarcerate them in the neighbors' Little Tykes Barbie Play House. They can play this game for hours. Ours is probably the only neighborhood with a child under two whose vocabulary includes the word "infiltrators."
How Can I Help It?
You speak eloquently and have seemingly read every
book ever published. You are a fountain of
endless (sometimes useless) knowledge, and
never fail to impress at a party.
What people love: You can answer almost any
question people ask, and have thus been
nicknamed Jeeves.
What people hate: You constantly correct their
grammar and insult their paperbacks.
What Kind of Elitist Are You?
brought to you by Quizilla
What other result could I expect? I am a student of language and literature. My motto is: "You can never have too many books--or too many shoes!"
H/T to Julie at Happy Catholic for this quiz.
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
I've been reading quite a bit on this subject lately
Last weekend I started reading "I Don't Know How She Does It" by Allison Pearson, which is supposed to be a funny account of the life of a more-than-full-time-working-mom, but which I find quite depressing (just as I did "The Nanny Diaries.")
And then, today, The Anchoress had an interesting piece on the same topic.
I'm one who, when I revealed my plans to stay at home with my children to a friend who was rather surprised at my "planned and wanted" pregnancy with Big Brother, was accused of "wasting my education."
Yes, I have a Master's degree from a prestigious university. It qualifies me to teach English on a college level, and I'm certified to teach secondary grades as well. But nothing about my education DISqualifies me from hugging my kids, planning and cooking their meals, taking care of my home, volunteering in their school, reading stories to Little Brother, building block towers, doing piles of laundry, cleaning toilets, helping with homework, or doing any of the other miscellaneous tasks that make up my day--no, my vocation--as a wife and mother.
I guess Big Daddy is wasting his education too, as he is not employed as a meteorologist but instead as a computer programmer. I actually know very few people who are employed in the same field they planned to work in while they were still students. Over time, we grow and change. And nothing we learn is ever wasted, whether we use it for personal profit or not.
And then, today, The Anchoress had an interesting piece on the same topic.
I'm one who, when I revealed my plans to stay at home with my children to a friend who was rather surprised at my "planned and wanted" pregnancy with Big Brother, was accused of "wasting my education."
Yes, I have a Master's degree from a prestigious university. It qualifies me to teach English on a college level, and I'm certified to teach secondary grades as well. But nothing about my education DISqualifies me from hugging my kids, planning and cooking their meals, taking care of my home, volunteering in their school, reading stories to Little Brother, building block towers, doing piles of laundry, cleaning toilets, helping with homework, or doing any of the other miscellaneous tasks that make up my day--no, my vocation--as a wife and mother.
I guess Big Daddy is wasting his education too, as he is not employed as a meteorologist but instead as a computer programmer. I actually know very few people who are employed in the same field they planned to work in while they were still students. Over time, we grow and change. And nothing we learn is ever wasted, whether we use it for personal profit or not.
Monday, September 19, 2005
Heart Transplant, Anyone?
The Curt Jester has done a wonderful piece on the heart. It's definitely worth reading.
Via Happy Catholic.
Via Happy Catholic.
Tagged by Jill
10 Years Ago
I was 30 years old, 6 months pregnant with Middle Sister and had just finished being a contestant on "Jeopardy!" (I lost, but the only thing I got wrong was Final Jeopardy).
5 Years Ago
I was 35 years old and teaching part-time Spanish, grade 5 at a middle school and grade 1 in an elementary school in a neighboring town. 2 classes a day, 5 days a week. The choir I had led for almost 10 years had been displaced by a change in the Mass schedule, and directed to merge with a senior citizens' choir in the same parish. That merger lasted a month. After that I went on a heartbreaking hiatus from music ministry for almost 2 years.
1 Year Ago
I was 39. Little Brother was 2. I was just beginning to get more involved in the Big Kids' school and volunteer during the day, with Little Brother in tow.
5 Songs I Know the Words To
You can't expect me to narrow it down to just 5! I have an amazing memory for lyrics. Having been a church musician since 1980 I know just about everything in the old original 3-volume set of "Glory and Praise."
5 Snacks
Grandma Utz's handcooked potato chips
Milky Way
coffee ice cream
cheese Danish
mixed nuts
5 Things I Would Do With $100,000,000
Buy & restore a big Victorian house (the more porches & turrets, the better)
Educate my childen & my nieces & nephews
Bail out my Big Kids' financially-strapped Catholic school and build the parish a nice gym/parish community center
Make sure my parents & inlaws were well provided for in their retirement years
Tell Big Daddy that he can stop working for pay and instead do what he loves, involving meteorology
5 Favorite TV Shows
The West Wing
The Apprentice
The Weather Channel
The Cosby Show reruns
Early Edition reruns
5 Places I Would Run Away To
the NJ shore
the mountains, especially in fall
That's all I need
5 Joys
My family
a beautiful sunset
a good laugh
singing
cooking
5 Things I Would Never Wear
-anything that exposes my belly
-piercings outside my ears
-high heels
-miniskirts (or mini-anything)
-shorts with writing on the butt
I don't know anyone who hasn't been tagged for this one!
I was 30 years old, 6 months pregnant with Middle Sister and had just finished being a contestant on "Jeopardy!" (I lost, but the only thing I got wrong was Final Jeopardy).
5 Years Ago
I was 35 years old and teaching part-time Spanish, grade 5 at a middle school and grade 1 in an elementary school in a neighboring town. 2 classes a day, 5 days a week. The choir I had led for almost 10 years had been displaced by a change in the Mass schedule, and directed to merge with a senior citizens' choir in the same parish. That merger lasted a month. After that I went on a heartbreaking hiatus from music ministry for almost 2 years.
1 Year Ago
I was 39. Little Brother was 2. I was just beginning to get more involved in the Big Kids' school and volunteer during the day, with Little Brother in tow.
5 Songs I Know the Words To
You can't expect me to narrow it down to just 5! I have an amazing memory for lyrics. Having been a church musician since 1980 I know just about everything in the old original 3-volume set of "Glory and Praise."
5 Snacks
Grandma Utz's handcooked potato chips
Milky Way
coffee ice cream
cheese Danish
mixed nuts
5 Things I Would Do With $100,000,000
Buy & restore a big Victorian house (the more porches & turrets, the better)
Educate my childen & my nieces & nephews
Bail out my Big Kids' financially-strapped Catholic school and build the parish a nice gym/parish community center
Make sure my parents & inlaws were well provided for in their retirement years
Tell Big Daddy that he can stop working for pay and instead do what he loves, involving meteorology
5 Favorite TV Shows
The West Wing
The Apprentice
The Weather Channel
The Cosby Show reruns
Early Edition reruns
5 Places I Would Run Away To
the NJ shore
the mountains, especially in fall
That's all I need
5 Joys
My family
a beautiful sunset
a good laugh
singing
cooking
5 Things I Would Never Wear
-anything that exposes my belly
-piercings outside my ears
-high heels
-miniskirts (or mini-anything)
-shorts with writing on the butt
I don't know anyone who hasn't been tagged for this one!
The Politics Quiz
| You are a Social Conservative (26% permissive) and an... Economic Moderate (43% permissive) You are best described as a:
Link: The Politics Test on Ok Cupid |
Sunday, September 18, 2005
Someone was watching out for me this morning
It's not like the Music Director hasn't given me ample notice that we were switching Mass settings today. I've known it for at least 3 weeks. And I HAVE all the music in my Big Church Binder for all the Mass settings that we've ever done in my 3 years singing at this parish.
So I lead the singing of the Entrance Hymn and turn the page to the Gloria. Luckily I don't play the introductions on my guitar--the Music Director does those solo, on the keyboard. There I am, on Auto-Cantor, as I am about to play the Heritage Gloria and I hear the Music Director launch into the Mass of Creation. Eeek!
OK, I'll just sing and not play. I'll look a bit foolish with my guitar hanging around my neck doing nothing, but I can roll with that. I'm singing and turning the page in my book at the same time. I'm into the second verse before I realize that the music in front of me is the St. Louis Jesuits Gloria, and that the Mass of Creation setting is in a completely different part of my book.
So I turn the pages AGAIN, hoping frantically that no one has noticed.
Amazingly, I never made a mistake in singing the acclamation that I was unable to locate in my binder until the song was 2/3 over.
I think that next Sunday I'll have my coffee BEFORE church.
St. Cecilia, I owe you one.
So I lead the singing of the Entrance Hymn and turn the page to the Gloria. Luckily I don't play the introductions on my guitar--the Music Director does those solo, on the keyboard. There I am, on Auto-Cantor, as I am about to play the Heritage Gloria and I hear the Music Director launch into the Mass of Creation. Eeek!
OK, I'll just sing and not play. I'll look a bit foolish with my guitar hanging around my neck doing nothing, but I can roll with that. I'm singing and turning the page in my book at the same time. I'm into the second verse before I realize that the music in front of me is the St. Louis Jesuits Gloria, and that the Mass of Creation setting is in a completely different part of my book.
So I turn the pages AGAIN, hoping frantically that no one has noticed.
Amazingly, I never made a mistake in singing the acclamation that I was unable to locate in my binder until the song was 2/3 over.
I think that next Sunday I'll have my coffee BEFORE church.
St. Cecilia, I owe you one.
Saturday, September 17, 2005
I'd love winter, if it weren't so COLD!
| Your Element is Water |
 Your power colors: blue and aqua Your energy: deep Your season: winter Like the ocean, you evoke deep feelings and passion. You have an emotional, sensitive, and spiritual soul. A bit mysterious, you tend to be quiet when you are working out a problem. You need your alone time, so that you can think and dream. |
Fall is my favorite season. But a lot of the rest of this was on the mark. I like my power colors!
Thanks for this quiz go to Happy Catholic!
Friday, September 16, 2005
My younger sister would say...
I'm a LOSER!
I know for a fact she would say this. She's never been shy about it.
Anyway, my whole family--except for me--has gone to the mountains in central Pennsylvania for a weekend at our Neighbor's Mountain House. Dads and Kids Only. No Moms Allowed.
And what am I doing here at home while everyone's away?
Scrubbing the entire kitchen floor with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser and then finishing it off with an acrylic floor polish.
No lie.
My sister is right. But it's the only time I can do this without having Little Brother run across the newly-finished floor and STICK there because the acrylic is not yet dry!
I guess I'm even more of a Loser for being 40 years old and still worrying about what my sister thinks.
I know for a fact she would say this. She's never been shy about it.
Anyway, my whole family--except for me--has gone to the mountains in central Pennsylvania for a weekend at our Neighbor's Mountain House. Dads and Kids Only. No Moms Allowed.
And what am I doing here at home while everyone's away?
Scrubbing the entire kitchen floor with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser and then finishing it off with an acrylic floor polish.
No lie.
My sister is right. But it's the only time I can do this without having Little Brother run across the newly-finished floor and STICK there because the acrylic is not yet dry!
I guess I'm even more of a Loser for being 40 years old and still worrying about what my sister thinks.
Thursday, September 15, 2005
I don't want to know....
Little Brother is writhing around on the living room floor, sporting a brand-new buzz cut and a growly voice:
"Where's my arm? I can't see my arm!"
It looks to me like they're both attached, so I'm not too alarmed. Besides, I probably don't want to know what prompted this one.
"Where's my arm? I can't see my arm!"
It looks to me like they're both attached, so I'm not too alarmed. Besides, I probably don't want to know what prompted this one.
I don't do bugs
It is Big Daddy's responsibility to deal with any insect life that enters our home uninvited. Generally this means that if I see a spider around, I'll wait until Big Daddy gets home and make him take care of it. Yes, in this house, gender roles are pretty much traditional.
Big Daddy had already left for work this morning when Big Brother felt something inside his school shoe.
"Something's crawling around in my shoe, Mom!"
"You probably have a rock in there. Just shake it out."
"There's a CRICKET in my shoe!"
Guess who had to take the shoe outside and shake it until the traumatized cricket escaped to safety in the flower bed?
Big Brother has a lot to learn about his upcoming responsibilities. The kid's a Boy Scout, for Pete's sake. He earned his NATURE badge this summer.
My only consolation is that the kids didn't go running for our neighbor to encourage him to catch the wayward cricket and feed it to his lizard!
Big Daddy had already left for work this morning when Big Brother felt something inside his school shoe.
"Something's crawling around in my shoe, Mom!"
"You probably have a rock in there. Just shake it out."
"There's a CRICKET in my shoe!"
Guess who had to take the shoe outside and shake it until the traumatized cricket escaped to safety in the flower bed?
Big Brother has a lot to learn about his upcoming responsibilities. The kid's a Boy Scout, for Pete's sake. He earned his NATURE badge this summer.
My only consolation is that the kids didn't go running for our neighbor to encourage him to catch the wayward cricket and feed it to his lizard!
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
Lunchroom days are here again
Little Brother and I volunteer in the cafeteria at the Big Kids' school. I was just talking to Little Brother about what he wants to bring to school in his lunchbox today. His first answer was "Green beans!" Of course, he wants to wear his "school shirt" (Middle Sister's old gym t-shirt) to the lunchroom too. I'm looking forward to being there today. It's not the most glamorous volunteer work (wiping tables, cleaning up spills, emptying trash and stopping children from throwing things--I can do all that at HOME!) but it is a help to the school and I enjoy being around all the kids.
They enjoy being around Little Brother. Every child in the school knows his name. He has his choice of whom to sit with at the lunch tables. Eighth-grade boys--and girls--play little games with him. It's really nice to be around a group of children who treat Little Brother as if he IS their little brother.
That's the kind of thing that makes our school the nice little community that it has come to be.
They enjoy being around Little Brother. Every child in the school knows his name. He has his choice of whom to sit with at the lunch tables. Eighth-grade boys--and girls--play little games with him. It's really nice to be around a group of children who treat Little Brother as if he IS their little brother.
That's the kind of thing that makes our school the nice little community that it has come to be.
Monday, September 12, 2005
And now for something completely different
Who would I be 500 years ago?
Not surprising.
H/T to Happy Catholic for this quiz.
| The Monk You scored 21% Cardinal, 58% Monk, 38% Lady, and 40% Knight! |
You live a peaceful, quiet life. Very little danger comes you way and you live a long time. You are wise and modest, but also stagnant. You have little comfort, little food and have taken a vow of silence. But who needs chatter when just sitting in the cloister of your abbey with The Good Book makes you perfectly content. |
 |
My test tracked 4 variables How you compared to other people your age and gender:
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| Link: The Who Would You Be in 1400 AD Test written by KnightlyKnave on Ok Cupid |
Not surprising.
H/T to Happy Catholic for this quiz.
I'm saddened for this family
I just read over at A Mom and Her Blog that Susan Torres' little baby daughter passed away yesterday.
That family has gone through so much heartbreak over the past few months. I can't even imagine.
May perpetual light shine upon her.
That family has gone through so much heartbreak over the past few months. I can't even imagine.
May perpetual light shine upon her.
Saturday, September 10, 2005
Why I don't homeschool
I just don't think I could handle Big Brother's scientific curiosity on a regular basis.
In the past three days we have had the following scientific experiments:
1. Get a "punching balloon" (the big kind, with the elastic band that ties around one end) and attach the end to the garden hose. Turn on the hose and see how big the balloon gets before the water pressure causes it to explode.
2. Dip a turkey baster in bubble solution and try to make bubbles with it.
I'm happy to let his science teacher deal with his zeal for experimentation for part of the day! Plus, she keeps small animals in the classroom. Rumor has it that she's been lobbying for permission to bring in a snake.
Better her than me.
In the past three days we have had the following scientific experiments:
1. Get a "punching balloon" (the big kind, with the elastic band that ties around one end) and attach the end to the garden hose. Turn on the hose and see how big the balloon gets before the water pressure causes it to explode.
2. Dip a turkey baster in bubble solution and try to make bubbles with it.
I'm happy to let his science teacher deal with his zeal for experimentation for part of the day! Plus, she keeps small animals in the classroom. Rumor has it that she's been lobbying for permission to bring in a snake.
Better her than me.
Friday, September 09, 2005
The Little Rascals never had to put up with this
My Big Kids sometimes enjoy repeating the "Little Rascals" routine of:
"Don't drink the milk."
"Why not?"
"It's spoiled."
They've never seen that episode but they've heard us refer to it and they think it's funnier than anything.
Tonight, though, they were short-circuited.
Middle Sister got it started: "Don't drink the milk."
Lactose-intolerant Little Brother replied, "I drink WATER!"
"Don't drink the milk."
"Why not?"
"It's spoiled."
They've never seen that episode but they've heard us refer to it and they think it's funnier than anything.
Tonight, though, they were short-circuited.
Middle Sister got it started: "Don't drink the milk."
Lactose-intolerant Little Brother replied, "I drink WATER!"
Things like this REALLY get to me.
Click on the title to read the full story. H/T to Der Tomissar for this one.
And people wonder why I refuse to do business with companies that openly fund Planned Parenthood? How can I not?
And people wonder why I refuse to do business with companies that openly fund Planned Parenthood? How can I not?
What Kind of Cross am I?
You are the Mexican Cross: This ceramic cross is
hand crafted and painted in Mexico. Its bright
colors make it appropriate for the kitchen or a
child's bedroom, reminding us of the joy of the
resurrection.
What Kind of Cross are You?
brought to you by Quizilla
This was kind of cool, and I do like this cross. I could use one like it in my kitchen!
H/T to Seekeroftheway for this quiz.
It occurs to me...
...that it is not inappropriate to ask, "What would Mary do?" when trying to deal with a problem I am having with my children.
I'm sure that would be a good start.
Now, if only I could remember to DO that, in the heat of the moment.
I'm sure that would be a good start.
Now, if only I could remember to DO that, in the heat of the moment.
Thursday, September 08, 2005
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
It's been another fun-filled day, what with Middle Sister's eye-rolling, and rude answering, and finally outright snapping at me for no reason at the dinner table.
She was warned at the bus stop this morning that she'd be spending some quality time with her rude self alone in her room with NO RADIO (the ultimate punishment for She Who Has Four Radios). And she got what she wanted, after dinner and the post-dinner chores. I guess that's what she wanted, since she continued her rude behavior. She's old enough to know by now that with me, it's not a threat but a promise.
I thought about having her write the Fourth Commandment a few hundred times. (It's a good penmanship exercise too). I didn't, though, because Big Daddy said that he would go up and talk to her. So I am anxious to see what will come about as a result.
I don't want my children growing up to be rude, to me or to anyone else. I have the feeling she sees far too much of it on "TeenNICK" type shows, and is imitating what she sees. Maybe she sees too much of it in me, too, and I am trying to be better. But I want to foster more respect, and respectful behavior, in my children.
Suggestions are welcome.
She was warned at the bus stop this morning that she'd be spending some quality time with her rude self alone in her room with NO RADIO (the ultimate punishment for She Who Has Four Radios). And she got what she wanted, after dinner and the post-dinner chores. I guess that's what she wanted, since she continued her rude behavior. She's old enough to know by now that with me, it's not a threat but a promise.
I thought about having her write the Fourth Commandment a few hundred times. (It's a good penmanship exercise too). I didn't, though, because Big Daddy said that he would go up and talk to her. So I am anxious to see what will come about as a result.
I don't want my children growing up to be rude, to me or to anyone else. I have the feeling she sees far too much of it on "TeenNICK" type shows, and is imitating what she sees. Maybe she sees too much of it in me, too, and I am trying to be better. But I want to foster more respect, and respectful behavior, in my children.
Suggestions are welcome.
Monday, September 05, 2005
Dress Rehearsals
Big Brother is my pragmatic child. Sometimes that is an absolutely delightful quality--strange as it may sound.
Last night we were discussing the need for him to get used to an earlier bedtime, now that school is about to begin. He will have to be ready to catch the bus at 7:10 AM.
He was negotiating for 5 later minutes of bedtime and wake-up time, and I finally just asked him, "How long do you really need to get ready?"
He thought about that. I reminded him that he can be ready much faster if his schoolbag is packed the night before and put by the front door, and if he knows where his belt is.
"Yeah, I can waste 5 minutes every day looking for that belt," he commented. And a missing belt is an Unforgivable Out-Of-Uniform Offense at his school.
He decided that tomorrow will be his day for a Dress Rehearsal. He will wake up, get dressed, and have breakfast--and time himself. He's planned to make sure he has some time to read at breakfast. I'll have him add 5 minutes onto the final time, "just in case." And we'll come up with a reasonable wake-up time for him based on this.
I'm pretty impressed at his approach. I'm willing to give this a try!
Last night we were discussing the need for him to get used to an earlier bedtime, now that school is about to begin. He will have to be ready to catch the bus at 7:10 AM.
He was negotiating for 5 later minutes of bedtime and wake-up time, and I finally just asked him, "How long do you really need to get ready?"
He thought about that. I reminded him that he can be ready much faster if his schoolbag is packed the night before and put by the front door, and if he knows where his belt is.
"Yeah, I can waste 5 minutes every day looking for that belt," he commented. And a missing belt is an Unforgivable Out-Of-Uniform Offense at his school.
He decided that tomorrow will be his day for a Dress Rehearsal. He will wake up, get dressed, and have breakfast--and time himself. He's planned to make sure he has some time to read at breakfast. I'll have him add 5 minutes onto the final time, "just in case." And we'll come up with a reasonable wake-up time for him based on this.
I'm pretty impressed at his approach. I'm willing to give this a try!
Sunday, September 04, 2005
Operation Sleepover
More information will follow, but at the moment, here's the basics: the Minister of my Fraternity of Secular Franciscans has initiated Operation Sleepover as a way to involve the youth of our local parishes in the relief effort for the survivors of Hurricane Katrina. There's contact information in the link above.
From the Comments
Steve commented, in my last post, that The Baton Rouge Area Foundation is accepting donations to help hurricane victims.
People are WALKING from the flood area to Baton Rouge--which is a 90-minute car ride away.
I was remembering, this morning, the time I visited Louisiana. I was a college student, and I participated in a Campus Ministry convention. I think it was held in January 1985, and Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, LA hosted. 8 students from northeastern-Pennsylvania colleges, including me, drove down in a borrowed van, on New Year's Eve (I still can't believe my parents let me do this!) One afternoon the whole convention was bused to New Orleans for a field trip to the French Quarter--quite the eye-opener for a bunch of Catholic Campus Ministry students!
On a road trip like that, you see how people are really living. You see the tiny homes by the sides of the road. I'm sure those homes aren't there anymore. There were so many people who already had so little. I have heard people say that "everyone should have gotten out" and while there may be room to criticize those who really had a choice to stay or go, there were SO many people who had nowhere to escape to, and no means to get there.
I read this morning that Nicholls State is sheltering more than 1000 evacuees on their campus.
Please pray for God's blessing on the evacuees, and on those who help them, and please help as you are able.
People are WALKING from the flood area to Baton Rouge--which is a 90-minute car ride away.
I was remembering, this morning, the time I visited Louisiana. I was a college student, and I participated in a Campus Ministry convention. I think it was held in January 1985, and Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, LA hosted. 8 students from northeastern-Pennsylvania colleges, including me, drove down in a borrowed van, on New Year's Eve (I still can't believe my parents let me do this!) One afternoon the whole convention was bused to New Orleans for a field trip to the French Quarter--quite the eye-opener for a bunch of Catholic Campus Ministry students!
On a road trip like that, you see how people are really living. You see the tiny homes by the sides of the road. I'm sure those homes aren't there anymore. There were so many people who already had so little. I have heard people say that "everyone should have gotten out" and while there may be room to criticize those who really had a choice to stay or go, there were SO many people who had nowhere to escape to, and no means to get there.
I read this morning that Nicholls State is sheltering more than 1000 evacuees on their campus.
Please pray for God's blessing on the evacuees, and on those who help them, and please help as you are able.
Thursday, September 01, 2005
This Just In
I'm sure I'm not alone in mourning the devastation our Southern neighbors are facing right now.
Similarly, I'm sure I'm not alone in being appalled that some people are trying to take advantage of the situation. As if the looting wasn't bad enough, now there's this.
If you really want your hurricane-relief donation to do the most good, I'd suggest directing it to Catholic Charities.
H/T to Danielle Bean for the info and link to the donation site.
Similarly, I'm sure I'm not alone in being appalled that some people are trying to take advantage of the situation. As if the looting wasn't bad enough, now there's this.
If you really want your hurricane-relief donation to do the most good, I'd suggest directing it to Catholic Charities.
H/T to Danielle Bean for the info and link to the donation site.
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