La Vita Bella

Sleep in Heavenly Peace

2012-01-31T08:10:00.003-05:00

Oh blessed slumber, oh heavenly rest. How long you did elude him! How long you escaped our grasps! But not anymore. No friends, the little prince is finally sleeping WELL in his OWN BED! All Night! (*Of course, he is a toddler who's sleep is subject to change with every sneeze or cough, at any moment without warning for an indeterminate amount of time.*)

Joey loved our bed a lot, but he did not like to be crowded. Actually, I'm not sure how much he liked having us in our bed. It was time for him to learn how great his crib truly is! Not only did it go rather quickly, but it has been a while and he doesn't even fuss at bedtime. Oh glorious mornings! With my little boy greeting me happily and well-rested around 7am, everyone in the house is thrilled to see the sun.

The best part of course is how he established his OWN routine. After months of trying to introduce a "lovey" for comfort and him not showing any interest, he has chosen a stuffed dolphin he received at Christmas. After months of rocking and singing he has decided he no longer really needs the songs. What he does love to have is his Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer pillowcase, and anything with Frosty on it. He lays down on his side pointing and snuggling his 2 buddies. In the morning he tries to hand me everything in his crib, and I am unable to oblige and carry him at the same time! One morning Daddy carried everything down with Joey to discover that Joey expected Daddy to snuggle him with all of it!

I just adore how much he loves to snuggle during the day. It's always in brief, fleeting moments, and he rarely tolerates me interrupting his games, but it's soft and cozy and very, very lovely. And now that I get my own space at night I can soak it up joyfully during the day!

Art Day

2012-01-27T08:28:00.000-05:00

We call it Multi-medium Art Experience.

This is the first time The Boy has shown any interest at all in coloring/paint. He really got into it, asking for specific different colors (with points and "yes/no") and thoroughly enjoying the dot paints!

While most of our art days are pretty free-form and self-directed, I do sometimes offer pre-prepared projects or directed activities. This time I prepared shapes for scissor practice. Both girls loves scissors, but Bella is ready for a little challenge to build her precision. She loved it! Each of the 3 papers introduced a slightly bigger challenge - the shapes got smaller, and then a few more complicated.

Note that Bella, in the background, is using left-handed scissors. An absolute must for my little lefty, and a big thanks to her Gram for sending them!We love art around here. All mediums, all formats, as often as possible!

Someone's Little Curl

2012-01-26T12:48:00.004-05:00

For the rest of the story and more pictures, check out Joey's Blog. I am much more emotional and overly-dramatic about this hair cut over there.

Quick Takes

2012-01-12T13:58:00.005-05:00

For the first time in a long time I actually remembered it was Friday!

1.

I have been watching WAY too much HGTV lately. I walk through my house narrating the design styles in each room. "Clutter, with a sense of lived-in comfort." "Attempted to take on influence of global travel with positive results in the mis-matched aspects." "A distinct 'hand-me-down and thrift store' aura, with bright splashes of random colors."
I love color, and I love design, and so many of those shows leave me wanting to pick a theme for certain rooms in my home. How to get there from here? I have no idea!

2.

Curious, restless, with a few minutes to spare/procrastinate? Try www.findyourspot.com for some fun! We live in MD, along with all of my brothers, their families, and our parents. What ideal place does this quiz have for me? Upper Rocky Mountains. Plenty of snow, lots of outdoor activities, lakes, and open sky! LOVE it! Not that we're moving, of course, but the open air definitely calls my name. Other top spots for me included Southern Blue Ridge mountains. I want more snow than that, but the Southern mountain air always does a body good, too and that's probably more my kind of outdoors - as in, warmer than freezing for the greater part of the year.

3.

I have a cold, Joey has a cold, Anastasia has croup, Daddy has a cold.Multiple children coughing and wheezing all night. Can I start feeling sorry for myself or do I have to wait until someone throws up?

4.

As I type I am staring at our Christmas tree, willing it to clean itself up. There is a great sense of cleanliness, refreshment, and openness that comes immediately after putting away all of the Christmas decor. The actual act of putting it away is a painstaking task, which is why our tree ornaments hang there mocking my tired, lazy self.

5.

Speaking of a tired, lazy self - 26 weeks down, 14 more to go! Wednesday was my *second* ultrasound, since the images from the first disappeared before the doc wrote his report. While another hour scan was not tops of my excitement list, it was pretty neat to see the drastic changes in Baby since my last scan. SO so active, with big cheeks already! We're pretty excited!

6.

Best music my husband bought me this year: Colin Raye's His Love Remains. I have always loved his voice and this collection of songs is mostly old school and heartfelt hymns.
The weirdest music my husband bought me this year: Bella Fleck and the Flecktones Christmas album. Odd, but he does have to work around my already expansive and eclectic Christmas music selection. It did kind of grow on me, in a thank-goodness-I-can-shuffle-this-whole-playlist sort of way. Musically, it's pretty cool.

7.

I think we finally have a great laundry "schedule" figured out. 3 times/week, and EVERY single load I do contains underwear. Jeans? yup. Towels? yup. I just can't risk it. If the day turns crazy and I only get one load all the way through the dryer and put away, at least I can be guaranteed that there are a few pairs of little girls' panties to carry through the next few days. I know you're laughing at the simplicity and mind-numbingly elementary truth in this, but in my world, this is a major accomplishment. In other news, I will have a New Baby in just 3 short months and this schedule will not matter one bit.

Your weekend will be that much better if you stop on over at Jen's for more Quick Takes!

Christmas Baking

2012-01-10T14:41:00.001-05:00

Each year I look forward to Christmas baking. I have picturesque images of plates full of homemade sweetness in perfect contrasting color towers. I have lists of the recipes I absolutely must try. In my perfect plan I show up to each event with a beautifully wrapped package of love-in-sugar-form. And then Advent rolls around, takes me by utter surprise as if it has never happened that soon after Thanksgiving before, and I am resigned to decide which few recipes I can muster my way through. This year, however, I had very enthusiastic little Helpers whose joy and excitement was thoroughly contagious! We had SO much fun!

Pretzel Dots are a favorite! With very little help from me the girls were able to complete the process. They were excited to be able to do each very simple step, and everyone LOVES the finished product. And what's not to love about the festive colors, which thanks to M&M marketing can be adjusted to suit whatever holiday you want.

Sugar cookies are time-consuming, messy, and require full-time involvement. And I LOVE making them! Nothing is more exciting to kids than rolling out that dough and pushing cutters to make what is, to their eyes, the most perfect shapes. And oh! The sprinkles! The colors! The hands that are now dyed the colors of the sprinkles from all the taste-testing! The only real problem is that of course I did not take any pictures with my own flour-covered hands, so the finished product will suffice.

Sometimes a pre-made kit is the perfect project for a short time frame. Step 1: open packages. Step 2: let the kids decorate however they want for 15 minutes. Step 3: give them a glass of milk and call it lunch. Everyone wins!

We also made chocolate chip (of course). The taste-challenge winner, though, was a new recipe for me this year. I made These cranberry-orange cookies and I recommend starting out with a double batch. That way when you nibble your way through these tasty, beautiful treats you will still have a few to set out and share with others. Or to eat later. They are visually appealing and very, very delicious!

My Theme Song

2012-01-09T15:23:00.001-05:00

My 3-Year-Old-Baby

2011-12-02T08:47:00.003-05:00

She's very silly, and loves to make everyone around her laugh. ...and she's still my little Baby

Her stubborn temper is well-known to everyone who knows her. ...and she's still my little Baby

That sweet smile can turn a million expressions in a second. ...and she's still my little Baby.

Every waking moment is filled with vibrant chatter and vivacious songs and stories. ...and she's still my little Baby.

She holds her own in the world, standing up for herself and never allowing herself to be pushed around by the bigger ones in her life. ...and she's still my little Baby.

Fiercely independent, she potty-trained herself more than a year ago, gets herself dressed, puts away her own clothes, and can help empty the dishwasher without asking. ...and she's still my little Baby.

She falls asleep smiling and wakes up ready to snuggle, and sometimes even still sleeps on my shoulder. ...and she's still my little Baby.

Happy to be a big sister and have her "bwudder" around, she is quick to help make him happy, sing to him, and play ball with him. ...and she's still my little Baby.

She genuflects beside the pew, makes a beautiful Sign of the Cross, prays her prayers well, and sometimes shouts angrily at her sister in the middle. ...and she's still my little Baby.

Her whole little self is growing up so quickly, her personality will take on the world as she sees fit, and she is never one to fade into the shadows, but when I look into those beautiful brown eyes and cherubic face, and I hear her sweet little voice with her mis-pronunciations, then I know that she is still... My Little Baby.

It was her birthday and we celebrated with lots of cake and singing. ...and she's still my little Baby.

Happy Third Birthday, my Anastasia Kathryn!

2011-09-28T09:24:00.002-04:00

"After Monday and Tuesday, even the calendar says
W. T. F. !!!"

HT: FB friend

Don't Ask Mom, She Has No Idea

2011-09-22T09:53:00.002-04:00

Reading Simcha's latest post from the mind of a very pregnant lady is yet another insight into my life right now. And I'm only on number 4! God help me, as apparently I have very low brain function starting out.

Having 14 months of not being pregnant left me with the deception that I was, indeed, a semi-intelligent functioning human being. I had energy my body has not seen the likes of in many years! My expectations had fallen so low that I was starting to exceed them, and it felt great! (Oh don't be too jealous; The Little Prince is still not sleeping through the night and has been quite *ahem* demanding. ) I was really settling into the idea that I could, in fact, cook dinner and put away laundry in the same day, and I think the rest of the family was enjoying it as well.

And then that little line made an appearance. Of all the things over which the female population wish to take Eve to task, my personal gripe is the unpleasantness of the First Trimester. My children, the sweet young things that they are, are unsure what to make of this crazy lady sprawled out in the middle of the floor yelling incoherently at them. I start to get frustrated that nobody is obeying a simple command, only for the 2 year old to ask "Mama what you talkin' 'bout?" Oh, I guess you can't really make up your own words to substitute for something you can't think of. Darn. ("hey, you very not good to yell, stop pesting your, uh, brother, uh, let joey crawl." and "thank you for the, uh, sipper, uh, drink thing, yes please pick the thing, other thing, round, uh ball, good job rollingish with Joey YESyoucangoplayoutsidewhatagreatidea!")

In light of this harsh reality, I would like a list of statements I can post somewhere... low so I can read them from the floor, of course. With a quick glance I can reference an intelligent, easy to understand statement to communicate a command or affirmation to my kids and avoid at least some of the confusion. "Ah, yes, please go get Joey's milk" can replace "Why is boy, Joey uh, noisecryingsad, can someone find no I don't know whereish it is his milk maybe upstairs were you playing in your room with his cup again?" I might get better results with "Please apologize to your sister" rather than "Stop fighting you're supposed to be loving and use NICE WORDS PUT YOUR HAND DOWN NOW I am talking to you and thank you for handing thing to can you please just say you are sorryer to her." Actually, as I type these out I am realizing that it might just be about minimizing the number words to which my children have to listen. Perhaps everyone could appreciate that.

Next topic: the list of reminders, such as "NEVER give the 15 month old chicken nuggets while feeling nauseous."

10 Years Anniversary

2011-09-11T08:36:00.001-04:00

Never Forgotten.

Sweet Husband

2011-09-02T07:03:00.000-04:00

Why I love my husband:

I'm sure there are other reasons, too, but at this moment this is the one particular example I'd like to share.

Freezer Meals

2011-08-31T13:38:00.003-04:00

Well Sarah the Heavenly, expecting a Boy Bundle soon, asked for ideas for freezer meals. I realize that while I absolutely stink at most things menu-planning, I do in fact have a faithful arsenal of freezer meal options. Instead of just posting tons of comments over there, I figured I would share some of our favorites right here in case any others are interested.

I will say that there are no allergy considerations in these, and that most of these are similar and VERY easy.

Banana Cottage Cheese pancakes - (note: these have an odd texture, so I did not like them right after giving birth or in early preg. However, that's just me so I thought I'd share cuz they're a protein breakfast package.)

3 eggs, separated
2 cups cottage cheese
1/2 C flour
1/2 C shredded all-bran cereal
2-3 sliced bananas
butter for cooking

Beat egg whites until stiff but not dry and set aside. In another bowl with same beater, beat cottage cheese and egg yolks until nearly smooth Or maybe a little smoother than that. Or maybe in a blender for the very smoothest texture. Gradually beat in flour and cereal. Stir in sliced bananas. Fold in egg whites. Melt butter in skillet and cook a few minutes on each side. Check middle for doneness. (very good served with warm maple syrup!)

Green Noodle Casserole -

1 lb ground beef (either start with extra lean, or pre-brown it and drain fat)
2 potatoes, diced
garlic
1 onion diced
2 - 15oz cans tomato sauce
1 tsp basil
1 package spinach fettuccine (hence the green)
1 cup jack/mozzarella cheese
1 lrg package cream cheese, room temperature
1/2 C sour cream
1/2 C milk

brown beef and potatoes, add garlic and onion. Add tomato sauce and basil, cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Cook noodles and drain. Spoon meat into casserole dish, top wth noodles (sprinkle with cheese.) WHIP the cream cheese, sour cream, and milk until smooth. (a blender works pretty well for this.) Pour over noodles. Cover and freeze until ready to cook. Bake at 350 for 40 minutes. (if still frozen it will take longer, obviously. uncover for last few minutes for nice browning on top.)

Mock Ravioli - frozen spinach is one of the best bargains in the grocery - great nutrition for CHEAP. I'm not a huge spinach fan, so mixing it in like this is great!

2 - 10oz packages frozen chopped spinach
8 oz large pasta shells, cooked and drained
1 sm garlic clove
1/4 C parsley
1/2 C bread crumbs
1/4 tsp sage
1/3 C parmesan ( I use MORE)
Ricotta cheese to taste/texture
1/4 C oil
2 eggs beaten
3 cups red meat sauce (or meatless if you want to make it a meatless dish)
(grated mozzarella cheese)

thaw spinach and drain well. Combine garlic, parsley, bread crumbs, sage, parmesan, and oil. Add in spinach and mix well. Stuff each shell with mixture, place in greased dish, cover with sauce (and cheese.) freeze. Bake at 350 for ~ 40 minutes. (longer if frozen...)

Crescent Italian Bake - red sauce and meat with crescent rolls on top. What's not to love?!?!

1 lb ground beef (again, either lean or pre-cooked and drained.)
2 lg potatoes, sliced/diced
black pepper
1 jar marinara sauce (or if you batch-cooked your own)
1 C shredded Mozzarella (or jack or cheddar)
1 can black olives (I never add these, hubby hates them)
2 cans crescent rolls
1 C sour cream (or cream cheese, or ranch dressing)
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp basil

Brown ground beef, potatoes, and drain. Add pepper and marinara, simmer ~10 minutes. (if going to bake same night, then prepare the crescent rolls here. Otherwise, just eyeball the simmer.) combine sour cream with herbs, spread mixture on open crescent roll dough and roll crescent normally. Put beef into casserole dish. (will fill 9x13) sprinkle with cheese and arrange rolled dough on top. Bake at 375 for 40 minutes or until gold brown and undersides of rolls are done. IF GOING TO FREEZE: do NOT add the crescent rolls until defrosted, then bake as normal. The dough gets funky otherwise and doesn't cook right.

Imperial Baked Chicken - straight from Southern Living cookbook of our mom's generation, this is one of my faves. LOVE it. Easy to prepare whenever, and goes with any veggie or side you want.

6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1/4 C parmesan cheese
parsley
salt and pepper
1/4 C milk
1/2 C butter, melted
1 clove minced/crushed garlic
juice of 1 lemon (or equivalent)
paprika

Combine parmesan, parsley, salt, pepper. Set aside. Dredge chicken in milk, then in cheese mixture, place in greased baking dish. Combine butter, garlic, lemon juice and drizzle on top. Sprinkle with paprika. Bake at 350 for 40 minutes.

Muffins - take whatever favorite bread or muffin recipe you have. I like banana nut, cinnamon-zucchini, and cranberry walnut in particular, and make them muffins. Thanks to my MIL I now add some whole wheat flour, ground flaxseed, applesauce instead of some of the eggs to make them super-duper-dense-powerful-jump-up-and-clean-something-with-a-smile good for you! Bake the whole batch (might as well double it!) and then freeze in freezer bags in packs of 4-6. Take them out every couple of days, or whenever you feel like you might want a few more. Once thawed normally in the fridge they taste as good as fresh, and are a nice treat for breakfast that isn't cereal.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Each of these dishes is a favorite for different reasons, but I find that they all freeze well and appeal to me even after a few months sitting there. Even after having a baby. They are all paired well with WINE, which is especially important after having a baby.

None of them reflect any amazing culinary talent, which is also why I like them. There are plenty of wonderful fresh-ingredient pastas and everyone has a favorite recipe for lasagna, but when it comes to my go-to list for stocking my freezer, these always have a place.

Anyone else have great ideas? Comment or link to your own post; I'm always interested in trying new ideas!

Quotable Quotes

2011-08-30T19:31:00.003-04:00

From the cutest little Anastasia ever!

For Bella's Birthday fairy wands my sister-in-law Angela and I prepped the night before, cutting out cardboard stars and spray painting them gold. (wouldn't Martha Stewart be proud?!)

We stuck the in the ground for ease of painting, and left them to dry overnight.

This sight greeted us in the morning.

Anastasia walked outside and immediately, with great delight, proclaimed,
*gasp* "We pwanted STAW fyowers! I yike deese staw fyowers!

A Very Fairy Birthday

2011-07-23T13:57:00.000-04:00

Happy 4th Birthday to My Beautiful Bella!

Her choice of party theme perfectly reflects her current obsession with all things girly, fanciful, and fairy!

Our party project was making fairy wands, complete with sparkle stickers, glitter glue, and ribbons. What's not to love?

Fairy Wings and Star Wands magically transformed these precious little girls into happily dancing fairies!

And the Pièce de résistance was certainly the cake!

That is one happy Birthday Fairy Girl!

A Letter to a Year

2011-07-02T16:31:00.000-04:00

Dear Age Three,

First, I would like to start by saying I have never wished any stage of childhood away. I have enjoyed each stage of growth and development for each unique joys and gifts they bring to my life.

Remember when She was colicky? Oh, that was a rough time; I may have had to remind myself daily that it would pass. However, in that time her darling Daddy picked up the task of walking with her nightly up and down the street praying a Rosary until she finally fell asleep. And so it went with each new development, each new challenge. There were learning curves and new challenges, and each one brought on moments of Grace and bigger pictures of gleaming Joy!

But Age Three, you were different. You were able to sneak in under my radar thanks to life circumstances; stealthily and subtly you took up residence in my Sweet, Independent, Silly 2-year-old. Suddenly this unsuspecting Mama was confronted with your presence, as Sweet caved to Sassy, Independent gave way to Attitude, and Silly surrendered to Cranky.

Perhaps the worst part of the invasion was that She did not like it any more than I did. I'm certain of that. She cuddled in my lap, her beautiful innocent eyes filled with confusion as she told me "Mama, I feel so out of control." The break in the screaming was just long enough to realize that of all the people tired of your ridiculous behavior Age Three, she was the prime sufferer.

Age Three, you will not be missed. As the weather turned warmer I saw your iron-clad grasp start to give way; your control was waning, indeed. Certainly I knew you were there, but an older Girl was emerging, and was beginning ever so slowly to shine some sunshine through the dark cloud that is you. You have left your mark, Age Three, but you are no longer dominant.

Dear Age Three, Good Bye!

... well, at least for a few months...

Quick Takes

2011-05-20T06:52:00.001-04:00

The "Brief Notes about our trip to California" edition:

1.

Flying with 3 kids ages 3 and under is insane. The greater the number of young children, the greater the chance that someone will
a) have to "go potty!" while the seatbelt light is on,
b) fall asleep right after saying that and pee on the seat,
c) freak out while looking out the window immediately followed by demanding to stay there
d) giggle at the people around you through the cracks in the seat
e) all of the above.

2.

Time zone changes proved more challenging with the kids this time. I'm not sure if it's simply because they are older, or if it reflects their ability to read my subconscious assumption I will be sleeping some on vacation.

3.

It does not really matter how the kids behave on the plane - there will be someone who congratulates you on how well-behaved they are and how beautiful/sweet/smart/charming those 3 perfect angels are. There will also be someone who gives you a condescending look or makes an easy-to-overhear snide comment about why they don't have kids. The truth is, you will walk off the plane and never see any of those people again. Be thankful for that and move on with life.

4.

Kids are very accepting and they love you anyways. People or situations are only awkward if you make them. We had the pleasure of going to the park with an old friend who is deaf with Alzheimer's and a German accent. We could have tried telling them that Gram's friend talks different, or that she can't hear them talk, or that she'll ask the same questions often. With older kids these preparations might be very helpful, but too much information for little ones can be intimidating, and we would run the risk of putting our own concerns on them. Instead, Anastasia took our dear friend's hand and chatted away. Both of them glowed with smiles of pure joy in the moment.

5.

I miss good Mexican food. really.

6.

There are so many people who shower us with love. The continent is very large when it separates us from our Cali family, and twice a year is not a lot of time to spend with people you love. Each time we visit, though, we are surrounded by amazing people who love us so much and don't hold the distance against us. This might seem like a silly thought, but the truth is that each time I am overwhelmed by the warmth our family and friends exude. This was the first time all of them (except for Gram) got to meet Joey, and it was a particularly exciting party. I am blessed to have 2 places to call home.

7.

California has perfect weather. We played outside every single day. I could get used to that.

A big thanks to Jen @ Conversion Diary for her wonderful, funny, insightful blog, and for hosting Quick Takes!

She's Got The Look

2011-05-04T09:21:00.000-04:00

"The Look" last year Easter

"The Look" this year EasterPerhaps my daughter is a bit possessive of her chocolate? I can't imagine where she gets that!

In Your Easter Bonnet

2011-05-03T08:44:00.002-04:00

... you'll be the grandest ladies at the Easter Parade!

Signs of Spring

2011-04-20T15:29:00.003-04:00

A Bedtime Epic

2011-03-23T13:03:00.002-04:00

The clock ticks mercilessly despite the desperate pleas for 5 more minutes. And then there's the kids' pleas, too! The denial is quickly followed by the bargaining, and they are some tough negotiators. Once they have accepted that their negotiations have failed, they stealthily employ the Delay Tactics. "Will you read 3 stories tonight, Daddy?" "I want Mama to brush teeth and sing tonight." Ah, this the the Bedtime Quicksand. Mama and Daddy fall for it almost every night, and the girls think they have won the victory. Little do they realize that this small battle was easily surrendered, as Mama and Daddy love losing this particular battle. More hugs, one more song, one more little chance to hear a girly giggle.

Victory remains in question, as the Opponents are losing steam quickly; both sides fight overwhelming fatigue. The ever-persistent chatter belies the sleepiness, but the Eyelid Flutter and the Looming Shadow of Sleep are creeping in for the take-over. Behind the closed doors two sisters sing and read for a few more minutes, Music to a Mama's ears despite my own exhaustion. Then, At last, VICTORY is MINE!

Oh wait, and then the baby wakes up.

Oh Blessed Silence

2011-03-15T14:18:00.003-04:00

aaaahhh, the Sound of Silence. When was the last time you were really silent? No, I mean without the radio in the background, without the computer in front of you, without half-listening to the feet pounding the floor upstairs. Silent.

Before you speak, it is necessary for you to listen, for God speaks in the silence of the heart. ~Mother Teresa

I never used to think of myself as a lover of quiet. In college when my friends were going on weekend silent retreats I was heading, well, probably to the bar. Or in moments of better judgment I might have even been studying or playing frisbee. I liked walks in quiet, but a whole weekend of silence? Why? In the later years of college and ever since I have become drawn into the beauty of silence. I relish moments of deep conversation with God with no worldly distractions. To step away from the noise is to step into better listening, clearer hearing. Listening leads to better understanding. Silence is the needed refreshment to the soul.

Last weekend my wonderful husband sent me on a much needed retreat to Holy Cross Abbey, a Trappist Monastery for a weekend of blissful silence. The retreat house has many beautiful rooms that all cater to the need for quiet reflection. The individual bedrooms are small, simple, sparse, and perfect for a mama who's tired of the mess around my feet. Nestled at the feet of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the panorama of beauty is breathtaking. I was partial to the sun room, with a wall of windows facing the Blue Ridge, with simple chairs and a ledge for my feet and coffee. The expanse of land that they own (rented out to cattle farmers) provides a definition of separation from the bustling roads and city lights. Of course, no matter where my feet led me wandering around the scenic grounds, I always found my way back to the Chapel for some face-time with God in the Tabernacle.

The hospitality is almost overwhelming. From the informal "check-in" and the Guest Master to answer your questions, to the food available, you are made to feel welcome and at home... just without the toys to trip over or the laundry to attend. The kitchen is stocked with snacks and coffee/tea, there for you anytime. The simple clean-up after meals is a calm and rewarding service. Their only rule is punctuality to meals and that silence is observed.

I was surprised at how self-conscious I did NOT feel at all. Although friendly smiles are exchanged between guests, the lack of the expectation for interaction left me feeling very free from judgment. I did not give the other guests much thought, and it did not occur to me they would feel any different. Have you ever experienced eating in silence? The incidental noise is loud, but unobtrusive to your quiet demeanor.

Perhaps the best way to explain is that the silence around you becomes an inner silence, a peace and stillness of mind and soul. Walking outside, I was shocked to hear a squirrel chewing on a nut. With the backdrop of the wind, I was acutely aware of the distinct chirps of the different birds, and other than the occasional "moo" from a cow, that was the only constant sound. Several times a day the silence is broken with the bells from the monastery, calling the monks to prayer. We joined them in their chapel for the Liturgy of the Hours and Mass.

Joining these holy monks in prayer in truly a grace-filled experience. They pronounce each word of the prayer deliberately and reflectively. St. Teresa of Avila writes that our vocal prayer should be said with such attentiveness that it becomes also mental prayer; that you cannot truly pray without paying complete attention and awareness of the One to Whom we are speaking. These monks exemplify that and draw you into deeper prayer with their voices. Since there was no time-line for my day, I was free to sit back and experience this in a way that cannot happen in day-to-day life. Try telling the toddlers that we're going to spend 10 minutes praying the Our Father.

I was blessed to take advantage of the Sacrament of Confession with a very old, very holy priest. Having been surrounded by silence, and to know that is how he lives his every day made me very aware of my own words. It was even more humbling that usual to pronounce the sounds of each sin, and very cleansing. The prayer of absolution gets me every time, and the uninhibited joy that fills me after!

I returned to my wonderful family rested and refreshed, and filled. Filled with Peace and Grace and ready to better show Love.

The fruit of silence is prayer, the fruit of prayer is faith, the fruit of faith is love, the fruit of love is service, the fruit of service is peace. ~Mother Teresa

Teach It and They Will Learn

2011-02-04T15:52:00.003-05:00

I am a busy Mama. Even my 3 year old says so. There is a lot to be done to make this house run smoothly. Each day I try to tackle the tasks out of love, but a lot of the time they just take on the appearance of a to-do list. But right behind me are four little eyes watching my every move. Four little hands just twitch with excitement. Will Mama let them help sweep? Will Mama let them carry their own cups to the sink? Can they join in the fun?

Yes! Of course!

The beautiful thing about encouraging toddlers to help is that the hard part is done - no motivation required. They want to help! They are excited to help! Harness that enthusiasm and give them a job. A wise mother of 8 once said to me that an 18-month-old can throw things away and put toys in a basket. Bella started with that, and has now graduated to other tasks, making room for Anastasia to pick up the simpler things. They feel important having a job that they can do. Choosing jobs that each can learn to complete well also builds proper self-esteem and confidence. That stubborn "I do it myself" attitude turns into "YES! You can do it yourself, and I will let you practice."

It is exhausting and time-consuming to let toddlers help. The job will certainly take at least twice as long and make for extra work for me afterward. Plates get spilled, dirt is flung, and someone is fighting over the sponge again. But we keep trying and finding new ways to adapt the chore for clumsy little hands (for the kids, too!) and one day there is a difference! One day you notice that the Big Girl is helping the Little Girl clear her own dish. She knows where the forks go and how to put her cup in the dishwasher. One day you hand her the towel and she wipes up her own mess and puts the towel with the dirty clothes. And you forgot to show her.

To Whom It May Concern

2011-02-02T11:20:00.002-05:00

Dear Two-Year-Old,

Thank you for helping me finally decide to throw away those old cassette tapes that have been in a bag in my closet. Regardless of how much I enjoyed them 10 years ago, I have no desire to try to rewind all the tape back into them.

Dear Darling Husband,

Thank you for the "new" bedroom TV. Despite all my protests you found a good deal and surprised me with a beautiful viewing option in the comfort of our bedroom. I will love the fact you put the girls to bed even more come baseball season!

Dear Baby Boy,

You now weigh MORE than either of your sisters did at a year old! That means that by the time they were your size they were walking. Please don't misunderstand, I really like your immobility; it's just that my arms are really tired.

Dear Biggest Sister,

You are so helpful and I really appreciate it. I love to hear you teach your younger siblings all about the world. Sometimes it is hard to be patient with your pupils, but please remember that she likes to try things by herself . Maybe next time you shouldn't try to help her brush her teeth.

Snow Days

2011-01-12T19:53:00.003-05:00

Quotable Quotes

2011-01-08T12:46:00.003-05:00

... from Anastasia!

Anastasia: "Monter!"
Bella: "That's not a monster, Anastasia. That's your brother!"
Anastasia: "Brodder Monter!"

lost in pronunciation - (*crying)

Anastasia: "Hey Joey, no dying!"

~Yeah, I couldn't agree more.

Quick Takes

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

1.

Patrick will be gone ALL WEEKEND. All. Weekend. Once a year (or so) a group of men we have known since college go away for a much needed guys' weekend. These men have all grown up to be solid, Catholic Dads and one solid Catholic Priest. I could not ask for a better group of men with whom my husband to be friends and spend a long weekend. However, for me who is used to having a LOT of help with the kids, the emphasis is on long.

2.

I hope to go into survival mode. Plaster a big smile on my face and sing for 10 hours a day. Alert the funny farm, I'll be filling my spot Tuesday. In reality, I'm not sure how it's going to go. I really am used to him helping a lot, and I haven't regained my confidence with the 3 kids yet.

3.

For the first time ever, I am actually ready to resume Ordinary Time. The Church has given us a beautiful rhythm to our lives ordered with the Liturgical calendar. Before kids I never really gave it much thought; it was there, it was good, but it had very little to do with how I live my day. Now that I am in a constant struggle to bring order and rhythm to my days I really appreciate the beauty it offers for our lives. We knew when to start preparing for Christmas, because there is a whole season of Advent. Now we know when to start settling down from the wonderful happy upheaval that is Christmas and ease ourselves into a normal routine.

4.

Joey has another head cold. Yuck. The poor little guy is a Snuffly Sniffly Mess who isn't sleeping well. The worst part of it all is that he has his MRI scheduled for next week! Last time they couldn't do it because he was so congested (he has to be sedated under general anesthesia, so he can't have upper respiratory problems). Please pray for my Joey, that he gets over this very quickly and that a silly head cold does not interfere with procedures again.

5.

Speaking of my Amazing Joey he is growing like a champ! At 18lbs 14 ozs he's HUGE for a cardiac kid, and he is a super-smiler. He's progressing and developing so nicely, and I really need to write a real post updating asap.

6.

Patrick and I actually had a date-night this week! My parents stayed with the kids, and the girls even went to a puppet show! They were almost as thrilled as we were to have us out of the house! We went to dinner at our favorite steakhouse, thanks to a gift card from a thoughtful friend. We way overate and it was wonderful down to the last lick of BBQ sauce and sweet potato. After a leisurely dinner we went to see Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader at the theater! We really loved having an evening out!

7.

Did I mention I'm nervous about the next 4 days? I am offering up a lot of my anxiety and the suffering of the weekend for the women who's husbands are deployed. I am such a wimp.

Many thanks to Jen @ Conversion Diary for hosting!

Christmas Eats

2011-01-06T14:29:00.009-05:00

In Brasil, as with many cultures, the Big Christmas Feast is on Christmas Eve. My sister-in-law carried on that tradition and we were very happy to be included!

Everything was absolutely delicious. One thing that she reminded us was that the weather is hot and humid in Brazil; Christmas is in summer. So we ate a tropical meal with the beauty of a gentle snowfall outside the window.

The side dishes were unlike anything I had ever eaten before, and I am now addicted. I am torn between wanting the recipe and being afraid to ruin it! We had Turkey served with fruit, rice mixed with veggies, this grain/starch dish that is impossible to describe other than delicious, and Brazilian potato salad (it has apples in it!).

She also prepared our Christmas Day lunch, which is "bread cake" to be eaten with leftover turkey. Layers of white bread, with a different filling between each. Creamy spinach, carrot puree, chicken salad, cream cheese, and raspberry or strawberry jam. It was also delicious, both to the eyes and mouth!

I do not know how I've lived life without the knowledge of how to make Dulce de Leche with a pressure-cooker and a can of condensed milk. Armed with that knowledge, I could conquer the world! Or at least make this delicious cake.

Although I don't remember exactly when, I know I thoroughly enjoyed this beautiful cherry pie, courtesy of my mother-in-law.

Merry Christmas!

2011-01-05T13:33:00.010-05:00

In the spirit of celebrating all 12 days of Christmas... or perhaps just because I am so far behind that this is the first chance I have to write... here I am wishing yall a Merry Christmas!

We had a truly wonderful and blessed Christmas. With our families on 2 different coasts, Patrick and I are used to alternating holidays; however, this year we were blessed with circumstances that allowed us to share the celebration! Patrick's brother and sister-in-law moved to Morgantown, WV - just 2.5 hours away! Well, maybe a little more when you are pulling an "empty box" over the mountains on your inaugural snowy drive in the minivan. But it wasn't too bad, the kids did sleep for at least 30 minutes or so.

We spent 2 days there, enjoying their hospitality immensely. Patrick's mom was there, also, which meant baking cookies and reading books with Gram. Life was perfect for my very happy little girls. My sister-in-law is Brazilian, and a wonderful cook. We ate well, we laughed a lot, we had a marvelous time.

Santa surprised us by bringing our presents there on Christmas morning! Good thing we had that extra empty box. *cough* Lesson learned: if the box says "screwdriver needed" then one should not wait until after the kids go to bed to get started. Santa was very tired, but very happy on Christmas morning!

When naptime arrived we departed, stealing Gram away with us. We drove the 3 hours straight to my parents' house, where we continued the celebration with another big family dinner.

Merry Christmas, Yall! Wishing you Christ's Peace and Joy!

Jesse Tree

2010-12-22T10:09:00.000-05:00

subtitled: How I am NOT a craft person.

Once upon a time, my dear husband saw an advertisement for a felt Jesse Tree. "We need such a great learning tradition in our house," he thought. Not only that, but we must share the wealth with some amazing God-children of ours. Surely their parents, too, will appreciate the unique, kid-friendly Advent tradition.

And so we quickly shipped the off to those poor, unsuspecting friends.

And then we opened ours. And we realized that this was not going to be a simple project. In fact, this was WAY more involved than this Mama, or that Daddy, tends to be artistically inclined towards.

The kit consisted of plain sheets of colored felt, and papers with diagrams and outlines. We then had to cut intricate shapes out of felt and glue different colors and shapes together to create the 29 various characters that tell the stories of the Messianic Prophesy.

I now feel I owe an apology to the mothers to whom we sent the kit. It's, uh, FUN! It was a great bonding moment!

No, really, it turned out great. My stars are lopsided. Adam and Eve have an arm defect. The parting of the Red Sea looks like blue moose antlers. And it was kinda fun after all. Just a fun, old-fashioned family event involving VERY sharp scissors and a large glass of wine.

My favorite part, of course, is now that it's done. It hangs right at the girls' eye level, and they are free to rearrange (Jesus keeps ending up in Mary's arms, how-cute-is-that!), touch (Anastasia, where did you put David's crown again?), and play with. Every day Bella brings me various pieces as asks me to tell the story of each one. She is learning a LOT of bible stories this way, and it's fun to be able to reference VeggieTales or recall the stories from their children's Bible. We even have a David song that we sing a lot.

In fact, despite the tedious work of the initial assembly, I have to say I really like it, and look forward to continuing the tradition each year.

It's All Perspective

2010-12-20T21:10:00.005-05:00

At the beginning of Advent we excitedly began reintroducing traditions of the season. The girls loved the colored candles - what little girl can resist pink and purple candles in the middle of the table?

They loved wearing purple to Mass each week and "matching Father." This past Sunday Bella wore a purple dress and pink tights, and announced that she was "dressed like an Advent wreath!"

Our Jesse tree has been a big hit, hanging right at their eye-level and so accessible to little fingers. (uh, for better or worse they can touch it all the time.)

Not everything has been okay, though. There was, in fact, a terrible disappointment for them. Baby Jesus was missing. Bella, near tears : " But Mary will miss Him if He's not there!" "I will be so sAD if I can not see Him!" (she's a little dramatic.) Anastasia kept asking "Where Jesus?" "Happy Birday Jesus now?" They just did not understand the empty manger.

They fixed the problem.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-15T07:55:00.002-05:00

"How's Your Advent Going?" edition

A Birthday For Anastasia

2010-12-09T10:58:00.014-05:00

Pure JOY

BallOONS!

Presents!

CAKE!

Giggles

Sibling Lovin'

Pure Exhaustion

Who is TWO?!?!

2010-12-03T15:05:00.004-05:00

Happy Birthday to my sweet, precious, delicate, feminine Anastasia-Saurus.

At 26 lbs you are still a little shrimp, but you pack a lot of power despite your size. No one will ever brush by you! Also despite your size you really enjoy food, you are happy eating almost anything.

You are a Little Miss Independent for sure. You potty-trained yourself 6 months ago when Joey was born! You insist on eating with a utensil and without a bib. "Bib NO bib. BABY bib." You could be a poster child for spray-n-wash but you insist on doing everything yourself. Of course, once you make a mess, even a small one, you insist on removing all of your clothing. You like to clean up afterward!

I love the way you play with your baby doll. You hold, rock, feed, and scold your baby like a good little Mama. Then like a busy little Mama you tuck her under your arm and go about your other activities. You can be seen wearing or holding a baby almost all the time.

You have a new interest in books for something other than their projectile potential, and this makes Mama very proud. Nothing is sweeter than the sound of you "reading" or singing the books. Speaking of singing, last week you sang all the Mass parts. Loudly.

Anastasia, you are truly a precious gift to me. You delight me with your abundant silliness, amuse me with your independence, and make me laugh so often. You never fail to surprise us with what you know that you aren't saying (like the ABCs you said today or the shapes you suddenly identified unprompted) and what you are saying ("other people go home? other people sing Haaaaappy Birday to MMEEEEE!")

Happy Birthday, big girl 2-year-old.

'Tis the Season

2010-11-28T14:14:00.002-05:00

Now that we have slowly awakened ourselves from the turkey-coma, it is time for the joy-filled, highly-anticipated, excitement-building activity of...

CHRISTMAS CARDS!

Last year we opted for photo cards, and it was so nice we're doing it again this year! Now I understand that nothing takes the place of a nice hand-written note; like many people, I have a great nostalgia for the beauty of old-fashioned correspondence. Here in the world of Little Ones, however, there is beauty and love in the convenience of a internet-ordered picture card!

At SHUTTERFLY.COM you will find over 800 choices. Lucky for me, though, you can search through them by descriptors, making the selection at least a little easier. Easier, that is, if you can decide between fanciful and childish or classy and pretty. I will always go for one that says "Merry Christmas" myself.

Throwing a party sometime this winter? I know nothing about sending out invitations, but I hear that some people do. Of course, I would probably pick these because the snowmen are drinking.

One of my favorite gift ideas is thanks to my friend Maria, who makes custom calendars for extended family! There are a lot of selections, and while I've never price-shopped these things, Shutterfly does have several styles marked down 50%!

For now I know I'll be ordering our Christmas cards soon. First challenge? Getting 3 kids to pose for a decent picture! Do you think anyone would notice if I just picked the models' pictures?

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T07:01:00.001-05:00

JOEY JOEY JOEY JOEY

Today is 6 weeks to the day since Joey's open-heart surgery! That means he is officially now done with the recovery period and is HEALED from it!

We have learned a lot of lessons on true gratitude, all-encompassing thankfulness in these past 5 months. Today is truly a

!!!!!!!HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!!!!
Our 3 most beautiful, perfect blessings

Now thank we all our God
With heart and hand and voices
Who wondrous things has done
in Whom this world rejoices
Who from our mothers' arms
Hath blessed us on our way
With countless gifts of Love
And still is ours today.

Thankfulness List

2010-11-24T14:15:00.000-05:00

~ For girls who love to sing silly songs and dance in the kitchen

~ kids' artwork on a dirty backdoor

~ my husband's new job

~ my husband's new commute

~ my husband's new smile

~ family that are also friends

~ the Eucharist : the perfect, most intimate gift God offers us.

~ friends that have become family

~ conversation that brings joy to my heart

~ baby Joey home

~ being able to tell Bella that Joey is not going back to the hospital anytime soon

~ having only 1 child in diapers

~ Mama Mary teaching me how to love Jesus more each day

~ a short walk to people I love

~ VeggieTales and snuggle time

~ girly giggles between sisters

~ peace and quiet during naptime

~ other women who inspire me

~ people who challenge me

~ the doctors, nurses, therapists, and staff at Children's hospital

~ red wine

~ hot coffee

~ not always in that order

~ and...

A Word of Thanks

2010-11-23T13:41:00.002-05:00

Certainly this week awakens even the most dormant soul to a profound gratefulness, and I am no exception. Each day I try to be openly thankful for the abundant blessings that surround me, but often I forget the "open" part. Too often people forget to say out loud the gratitude of their hearts, and I too often fall into that category. So this week, some words of Thanksgiving.

I am so grateful for my husband. He is a strong and holy man who is working on attaining heaven and is set on bringing us with him. I could never ask for more in my spouse!

Two specific points for today:
~Patrick is always trying to help make my life easier. Sometimes it's folding laundry during football, because he knows I mean to get to it during the week. Really, I do. But then the weekend rolls around (or midweek evening games) he rounds up whatever kid is interested and they head down to watch and fold. Sometimes he buys a present that he is certain will make my life easier. Sometimes it's just a suggestion or hint for an idea that will help in my daily routine. No matter what it is or even if it ends up helping, the point is that he is acutely aware of how hard I work around the house with our 3 little ones, and he wants to lessen the stress as much as possible.
~When Joey was in and out of the hospital, and as we faced one life-threatening event after another, Patrick was my rock. He truly acted as Christ to me - strong, gentle, loving, supportive, constant. Every breath we took we took together. When my heart would shake there was my loving husband. Holding hands saying the Rosary on our way down there the night after Joey's first surgery. (We got a call things weren't going well.) Singing to Joey while he was sedated. Singing to him while he was awake. Holding me watching Joey's body fight for life. The biggest testimony to my husband's faith is perhaps the day that Joey went into cardiac arrest. While we were shaking in the shock of being told they were performing CPR, Patrick reminded me that Joey was fin - he is Baptized and Confirmed. He is fine, it was us we were worried about. A man of faith, filled with love.

I could never of imagined what we would be asked to go through already, but I am eternally thankful for my husband Patrick. Each day is a reminder of what a gift he is to me.

Quick Takes

2010-11-19T14:25:00.002-05:00

Here I go, trying to be cool enough to hook up with the Linky List with Jen @ Conversion Diary.

1,

I went through the majority of today thinking it was Thursday. I'm not sure if it's related to the fact I just realized yesterday that Thanksgiving is next week (!) or the fact that my husband will be gone all day tomorrow so the usual advantages to a relaxing Friday night are null and void, or if it is simply a testimony to my overall state of incompetence right now. Perhaps it's most likely a symptom of my life being one long run-on day, much like that last sentence.

2,

The girls have gotten completely spoiled this week by... their father! The have decided that popcorn pajama time with a movie should be a nightly event. Last night we got home late after our monthly grocery store date night and they were shocked and appalled to discover that meant a normal bedtime routine. How terrible.

3,

It started as a typo, but I like the commas instead of periods after the numbers. It makes me feel so Italian. Or maybe everyone is laughing at me.

4,

Confession: I have an almost sadistic love of tickling babies. I just love the way their whole bodies just crumple up and they gasp for breath. My poor Joey has spent the past 10 minutes a victim for my amusement, but gauging from his smile I suspect he doesn't mind too much.

5,

It took until just this week, but I am finally embracing the arrival of autumn. Each year I live in a state of denial for a while, and thus often almost miss some of the beauty! I do love the cooling weather, the rosy cheeks that display after a good play outside, and the colorful palate of leaves. However, it wasn't until yesterday when I stepped outside and went "[Yikes], it's COLD and crisp! And our neighbor has started up his wood stove!" that I finally conceded the fact it is, in fact, fall.

6,

A parenting first for us last night - we had to call poison control! On our way home from the grocery Anastasia ate an entire small tube of toothpaste. We were reassured that the small tubes do not have enough flouride to be a threat.

7,

I have a proposition for the next Food Network reality series. To Heck with all those "next big star" and "who's really the best cook in the world" shows. What they really need is a Real Life Kitchen in a Real Life House With Toddlers show. I could teach people a thing or two about squeaking out the occasional nutritious meal with hands in the mixing bowl and feet dancing on top of mine and the baby laughing in the background. On the other hand, those top chefs couldn't handle that kind of heat, so stay outta my kitchen. :)

Quotable Quotes

2010-11-10T21:57:00.000-05:00

When Joey was born, so so long ago before we knew just how special his little heart was, Bella took the liberty of explaining things to Anastasia. The morning that Patrick and I were in the hospital, over breakfast with Gram:
"Anastasia. Mama and Daddy have a new Baby. You are not the baby anymore, so we can't be carrying you everywhere. You will have to walk."

Anastasia, new words, new pronunciations: "Gram" is very clearly, very loudly, very emphatically said "DAM!"

I guess there's no greater insult:
Bella: "Anastasia, I will not pray for you because you are being mean. I will not pray for bad guys."
a few minutes later: "Holy Mary and Jesus, bless Anastasia, Joey, and me. Even when she's mean."

to Gra'm -
Bella: "Gram, we are very lucky to have you here!"

Bella: "Mama, you are the cutetest Mama in the whole world!"

An Incredible 5 Months

2010-11-04T14:23:00.003-04:00

It just isn't possible. FIVE MONTHS??? I am certain I've known him my whole life.

Most certain, t00, is that I have aged much much more. Perhaps a year or two. Or ten. My Boy, my precious, perfect, darling little boy is 5 months old!!!

Each child is a miraculous gift from God, no doubt. Every child brings mystery and excitement to life. Some children seem to just come overflowing with lessons. A whole new meaning to "My cup runneth over."

I have not written a lot of my reflections about Joey because writing makes one face what they may not be able to face at that moment. Each challenge we encountered was handled with prayer and trust, but not a lot of thinking. Thinking just isn't possible when your baby is on life-support. Thinking is not possible when you're waiting to hear the outcome of the CPR they're performing. Thinking is not possible when you scoop your healthy-looking baby out of bed for open-heart surgery. No, we tried to avoid too much thinking.

But now we REJOICE! Our house feels like Easter every time we look at our Joey! When he smiles, truly, the whole world smiles. (10 points if you're singing that song in your head now, like I am!) Each milestone is cheered as if no other baby has ever done it before him. There was a long time of not knowing what neurological setbacks he would face. Joey has decided to pleasantly surprise us this time :) Each milestone reached is a major celebration in our world!

Joey is a happy baby. He smiles SO much! I'm pretty sure it started because he was flirting with the nurses. He is a charmer, for sure! He loves to giggle in a light, quiet little way. Yesterday Big Sister Bella was being silly, and Joey BURST into a huge belly-laugh! TOO funny!
Eating is a favorite past-time for this not-so-little Little Guy! At 15 lbs he is my biggest baby yet! (And to think, he's the "sick" one?) Eating began as a major challenge, too, with the vocal chord paresis and thickened feeds and his refusal to resume breastfeeding. *sigh* But, Praise God for the availability of formula, because he continues to impress everyone with his healthy size!

It has been very exciting to see him reaching all around him for toys. He has a favorite wrestle buddy (thankfully not Anastasia) - he loves his stuffed Geico Gecko. SO funny to watch him roll and reach for it, then bring it to his mouth and babble at it! And speaking of babble, my goodness that boy is a talker! He loves to babble and coo at everything around him, and his volume is shocking at times! He has a lot to say, and wants to make sure his sisters quiet down every once in a while and listen.
He loves to make raspberries and play smacking sounds with his lips.
Dearest Joseph Thomas, you have been more than we could have ever expected, and a beautiful and perfect Gift.

Success for Joey!

2010-10-14T14:25:00.001-04:00

Joey's open-heart surgery was a SUCCESS! Praise God, the surgeon was able to close his very large hole and remove the band that had been helping to equalize pressures.

For more details and a drawn diagram of his heart defects, visit

http://joeytramma.blogspot.com

Praise God!
Thank you for your prayers!

Kate and Patrick

Applesauce

2010-10-04T22:41:00.011-04:00

subtitled: In which I pretend to be Pioneer Woman

Necessary supplies:

A wonderfully helpful husband

A couple of extra willing participants. We must keep life interesting, don' we?

Tip of the day: Bring the kids into the kitchen, set up a step-stool, and deal with the mess later. They absolutely love participating, and they haven't stopped eating the applesauce since then, either.

One willing NON-participant. Perhaps the most important part of this equation, although it did not last nearly long enough. Of course.

A perfectly sliced apple - a thing of beauty. We used a "food press" - like a little guillotine for produce, LOVE it!

I love the mix of apples. The variety adds a delicious depth of flavor, mixing sweet with tart. mmmmmmmm.

No less beautiful in the pot. Cooked down until soft, but hopefully rescued before too mushy.

One awesome stand mixer with grinder and fruit strainer attachments. The machine that has changed my kitchen-dwelling experience. Feed the apples - cores, skins, seeds, and all - into the top and watch the magic happen.

Look at that gorgeous color!

No really, it's incredible.

What a whole bushel looks like sauced. That's a full 12 quart stockpot.

I don't have any pictures of the processing step, in which the filled jars are bathed in boiling water (outside on a propane burner) and then cooled to create the seal. The "popping" sound is pretty cool, though.

Hey now, keep your paws off that beautiful finished product! 9 jars of yummy goodness, actually.

See, Pioneer Woman Ree, you don't have to feel threatened at all. Not that you did, of course - if I were really you it would have been better photography, a delicious recipe, certainly butter, and been funny. I will never hold a candle, but a girl can dream can't I?

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-29T07:04:00.000-04:00

"I found my thumb!" edition:

Quick Takes

2010-09-24T14:47:00.003-04:00

No fanfare here this week - just some simple quick thoughts running around in my brain. I have to put them down before they fall out again.

~~~

My little Joey is doing really well and growing fast. His next surgery, the big open-heart one to close his enormous hole, will be October 14th. Prayers are more than appreciated - they are how I breathe. Thank you.

~

I am in love with my new camera. No really, it's my fourth kid - I bring it everywhere, I'm highly protective, and I sing it to sleep at night. Just kidding. A huge thanks to my in-laws for an awesome digital Nikon D3000. With as much of a picture-taking fanatic as I am, it is wonderful to have high quality pictures of my high quality kids. I wasn't sure if it would be too much camera for me to handle, but not only can I take good pictures, it helps them be great pictures. Now if Nikon would like to take that as an endorsement and offer me free stuff then I'll hold a giveaway. Don't hold your breath, though; it was just my opinion.

~

3 kids, ages 3 and under. Only 1 of them is in diapers! Please don't think that I'm bragging - after working hard at it with Bella she is now dry even overnight. The week that Joey was born Anastasia took off her diaper and went pee in the potty. (Or, "peeeeeeee pooooeeeyyy" as she tends to loudly pronounce.) The next day she wouldn't let me put a diaper on her. In 3 months I could count on fingers (and I have the usual number) the number of accidents she has had. Now I have 2 girls in big-girl panties, which really just means I have 2 girls announcing they need a "potty pause" in the middle of Mass. See, don't be that jealous.

~

I actually put both girls in the same room to nap today since they had already fallen asleep in the car. They share a room overnight, but usually I don't tempt fate with the naps. I figured that I would get some laundry put away instead. So I promptly came down to get on the computer, and now, 25 minutes later, they are both awake and playing. That's the end of that; we'll leave the extra crib up in the guest room after all.

~

This summer has been really hard on the girls. When Joey was admitted to the hospital it was completely unexpected. They then faced 4 weeks of us going back and forth, them staying at home with Gram and unable to visit because he was so sick in ICU. Then he came home and we worked at establishing normal life again. Then he was back in the hospital for another week unexpectedly. Anyone have experience with this? I think they're coping well, but I still wonder if anyone has good resources. Especially since we will go through this again in just a few weeks.

~

Figures that there's a infant formula recall. Joey is the first on formula (after 3 months of breastmilk with complicated feeding.) Just in case I didn't hate the whole formula thing anyways, now I'm checking to see if my little cardiac kid has been eating with bugs. Awesome. (P.S. I'm not actually worried. Just annoyed at the irony.)

~

Welcome Fall! How I used to despise you, deny your very existence! Now I welcome you with open arms and great excitement. Of course, today is 93* and we're going swimming.

~~~

Don't forget there are wonderful posts to read over at Jen's!

Being Three

2010-09-21T09:26:00.003-04:00

... Is Helpful

... Is Loving and Gentle

... Is Abundant Silliness

Check out those purple fingernails! She's been waiting a while for those :)

... Is Getting Brave and trying new things
... Is a word of discovery with a strong dose of independence.

Joey Update

2010-09-02T15:02:00.003-04:00

Please pray for Joey, again! We came in this morning for his second cardiac cath to dilate his aortic valve, and things did not go quite as planned.

Patrick posted on the Joey Blog, so please take a moment to check it out.

Will try to update more as possible, but again we'll be in the hospital for a few days. Hopefully just for more monitoring.

St. Joseph, Pray for him!!!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-18T06:39:00.000-04:00

Actually, this could be a downright speechless Wednesday...

10 Adults, 17 kids ages 6 and under, 4 families. Our own little Catholic Fertility Support Group. Oh, and the best friends anyone could ever hope for.

His Precious Heart

2010-07-22T22:22:00.002-04:00

Settling into one of my favorite positions, I snuggled him onto my chest. I felt each little breath with his head nuzzled under my chin. I closed my eyes in complete contentment.

Never before had I been literally moved to tears by the simplicity yet magnificence of a beating heart.

A Roller-Coaster

2010-06-27T15:17:00.003-04:00

I'm not going to pretend otherwise - the emotions are on overdrive! We welcomed a beautiful, perfect, healthy Baby into our family just over 3 weeks ago. We brought him home, subjecting him to the chaos and love that makes up normalcy in our home. His home. I was surprised by the amount he slept! I was happy that he only seemed to want to nurse once overnight. He was gaining weight and watching his sisters. I snuggled him on the swing and went grocery shopping with just him. Normal life looked promising.

I watched him start to struggle to breathe. "Wow," I thought, "I know babies breathe fast but look at him. Look at his toes, so purple. My girls had little blue toes but his look so dark. Was that nasal flaring?" My usual easy-going demeanor was being replaced by a paranoia every time I looked at him. I was so thankful his follow-up was close and we could hurry and clear up my unfounded concerns. The doctor went with his gut reaction, saying that if we waited until Monday he wouldn't sleep all weekend. God Bless him. My concerns were not unfounded. My suspicions were correct - we had a beautiful, perfect little boy, but he was not healthy.

Although the calendar says he's been in the hospital for 2 weeks I'm sure it's been 4 months. From scared to hopeful to relieved to scared to concerned to hopeful - lather, rinse, repeat. And that's multiple times a day, most days. He has had 2 surgeries, 12 medications, 2 life-supporting machines, heart monitoring, central venous access, drainage tube, oxygen level monitoring, countless echocardiograms, 1 CT scan, 1 MRI, blood draws. His little body has been through more than most people will experience in 50 years of life.

Sometimes I look at him in pure awe - that God's precious gift to us would teach us so much so quickly. That it is thanks to the wonders of modern medicine that he is alive and the prognosis is so good. That someone who was so sick and so tiny could be such a fighter. That God loves us so much to allow us this challenge. Sometimes I picture his face and my arms ache to hold him. I know much more capable Arms are cradling him when I can't. My only consolation is the reassurance that the ONE in charge Loves Joey even more than I do. It doesn't help the emotional roller-coaster, but it's true.

For on-going updates about Joseph's condition, please check out http://joeytramma.blogspot.com the blog we started just for updates in his condition.

Baby Joey Update

2010-06-16T19:02:00.000-04:00

First, thank you all SO much for your prayers and support!!! To say it brings peace and hope in such a time would be an understatement. It is how I breathe. I did not truly grasp the power of prayer until I found myself unable to remember any words but still knew I was surrounded by spiritual help.

I wanted to update and clarify what is going on with Joseph, as a LOT has happened!!! Joey underwent surgery yesterday (was it really just yesterday???) Tues to correct his aortic artery. The surgery went very well and Joey tolerated it all quite nicely. We were there as he started to come out of anesthesia and he opened his eyes nice and big at the sound of Daddy's voice!

Last night, several hours post-op, his tiny little body was so tired of fighting. His blood pressure and oxygen levels dropped. Although they were able to stabalize him with medications, his lactic acid and creatinine levels were climbing, indicating that his heart was still not strong enough to provide adequate circulation. They monitored closely all night and this morning made the decision to place him on a heart/lung bypass machine (EcHMO, for my medical friends.) Although he is not breathing on his own and is totally sedated and medically paralyzed, his own little heart is still beating, doing its best. This machine "simply" provides support by circulating and oxygenating some of his blood also. THe good news is that his kidneys are already waking up, a sign that the machine is doing its job.

Tomorrow (Thurs) he will undergo a procedure to correct his aortic valve, which is much smaller than it should be. This is what they suspect caused the problem last night. He will remain on the ECHMO throughout it, and until he stabalizes afterward. Their goal is to wean him from the machine gradually over the weekend. There is about a 60% success rate for kids coming off the bypass.

We have a VERY long road ahead of us, taking one day at a time. Sometimes one minute at a time. I am SO grateful for the prayers and practical support, an outpouring of LOVE and generosity. Joseph was baptized and confirmed Saturday by a brand-newly Ordained Fr. Mick Kelly, who has been back to visit us and offer his blessings and Holy Communion. This is a constant source of strength for us! Please continue to lift Joey up in prayer!

JOSEPH UPDATE:

2010-06-16T15:04:00.002-04:00

Baby Joseph did very well with the Sx, but took a turn for the worse last night and is now on a heart/lung ASSIST machine that supports his body's function. He is not breathing on his own, but his little heart is tickin' away doing its best. The bypass machine helps support his circulation, but has not needed to completely take over. This will allow his body to receive the circulation they need without taxing his ticker too badly. Tomorrow sometime he will undergo a procedure to correct his aortic valve, which is what they suspect caused the complication from being too small. Although stable right now, he is still deep in the woods and we definitely need the continued prayers! St. Joseph, PRAY FOR HIM!!!

I will continue to attempt to update as much as possible, although I don't expect this to be often. My dear friend Alexis has been posting to her blog, and there is a group going on facebook. We are humbled and amazed at the outpouring of love and support!

Storming Heaven!

2010-06-14T22:58:00.002-04:00

Well, that precious little boy Joseph barely had time to acclimate to the overload of his sisters' hugs and kisses before his, and our, world turned upside-down.

He began to have trouble breathing by the end of his first week, and an x-ray revealed an enlarged heart, and an echocardiogram confirmed 3 major heart defects. Joseph is now down at Children's Hospital in Washington, DC, and will have surgery tomorrow - Tuesday June 15th, at 7:30am.

This surgery will be to correct the first and most serious of the defects, which is a long stretch of the aorta that is too skinny. This means that there is not enough blood flow to the rest of his tiny little body, AND that his little heart is working overtime and wearing itself out. By removing that constricted portion his heart will begin to relax and beat the way it should. He will have at least one more surgery and several more procedures in the future when he is older, bigger, and stronger.

I realize this is a very cut-and-dry, simplified explanation. It is 11 pm and my Baby is having surgery tomorrow morning. PLEASE PLEASE PRAY!!! I hope to write more about what's going on in the upcoming days/weeks, as there has been so much going on. In the meantime, just keep Joey in your thoughts and prayers.

Saint Joseph, pray for us!!!
Saint Thomas, pray for us!!!

Introducing the Tramma Boy!

2010-06-11T15:51:00.003-04:00

Joseph Thomas, born June 4th

Weighed in at 7lbs, 3.5 ozs and 20 inches long

Already a hit with the Ladies

What is a Little Man to do with all this Love and Affection?

He arrived safely after a natural 8 hour labor, with Mama (obviously), Daddy, and the nurse midwife all excited to greet him! We think he's pretty cute, and given the fact he's been sleeping like a newborn should he's welcome to stay. :)

Quotable Quotes

2010-05-23T15:35:00.002-04:00

Bella: "Gram will be here in 2 weeks, and she is going to bring our newborn Baby with her." (ah, if only it were that easy! Can I sign up for that kind of L&D?)

"I'll be three in a minute." (whew, yeah they grow fast but really...)

"I woke up too early this morning, but then I had a nice rest. I laid upon my bed and singed songs about it until I woke up and feel well-rested now."

" Goofy Face "

2010-05-19T09:19:00.000-04:00

Don't Make Me Come Over There

2010-05-16T15:36:00.001-04:00

Him: (with a teasing grin) "Aren't you going to do anything?"

Me: "Watch it, Mister."

Him: "Yeah, I'd be more careful about saying things like that if I thought you'd actually get up and move."

Me: "Be careful, or when I do finally stand up I'm going to come sit on you. Then you'll be sorry!"

Dear Anastasia, 17 months

2010-05-15T07:48:00.000-04:00

Beautiful Anastasia, your tiny little 21-pound-17-month-old self is pure Delight. Your easy, happy grin reveals the little gap in your teeth and is often accompanied by the cutest nose-wrinkle ever. That smile appears for any number of reasons, from seeing your big sister, to greeting me after your nap. Yours is truly a smile that lights up a room!

Your serious face comes out when you know you are scolded, even ever-so-gently. A look of remorse with downcast eyes and a pouty lip emerges after your temper takes over and Mama intervenes before someone gets hurt! As you are SO dramatic, big crocodile tears occasionally appear rolling down your cheeks if the offense was serious enough to get Mama's stern face.

Always on the lookout, you have no problem finding your share of mischief. Especially if mischief is located high up! Though you've had your share of tumbles you are never deterred from always reaching new heights. Mama is very thankful that you are so short for your age, as at least that can keep you limited! You want to touch everything, hold everything, and to experiment with the bounce potential of just about whatever you've take possession. The biggest problem with your mischief, my Little Love, is that all-too-appealing smile that debuts on your face the moment you are spotted, challenging Mama so much to stay focused on the issue at hand, instead of gobbling up those cheeks.

You seem to believe that anything that does not cooperate with you can be dealt with by pure force. A cap that won't come off? Pull harder. A door that won't open? Bang repeatedly and yell loudly, ordering it to obey your command. A sister that isn't doing what you want? Well, you're learning about that, too. Speaking of which, you are getting very good at reprimanding yourself. You run to the step and fold your arms dutifully, waiting for the go ahead to go say sorry. Your apologies are one of the cutest things ever to witness, as you lean your head against the object of your temper and throw your arms as wide as you can reach. You are quick to play nicely, as you'd much rather be enjoying people's company than stranded by yourself.

If mimicking is indeed the greatest form of flattery, everyone in the family should be honored. You rock your babies like Big Sister, you vacuum the floor like Mama, and you took interest in the play lawnmower only after you saw how Daddy uses his. That being said, I would never misname you as a little shadow - you wouldn't allow the limelight stolen for that long. Any chance you get you'll make sure someone is watching you play ring-around-the-rosy or make animal sounds.

As I drink up these last few weeks of you being The Baby, I cherish all your little antics. You are growing up fast as if to show me you are ready to be a Big Sister, too. However, your sweet snuggles when you first wake up, your pleas for a few moments in the rocking chair, the way you will RUN to sit on an unoccupied lap all allow me to breathe in your baby-ness. You are still little, my Little Love, and no matter how busy or distracted Mama might seem these days, I am enjoying every second with you.

Roommates!

2010-05-12T10:25:00.003-04:00

We did it! The Best Friends are Roommates now! The girls are now successfully sharing a room, faster and easier than I could have imagined. Actually, the suddenness of the move was due to the pure desperation of sickness a few nights ago. After Patrick was up with Anastasia coughing every 15 minutes for almost 2 hours he decided she needed the humidity just as much as Bella. Besides, it couldn't get any worse. We only have one humidifier so he cleared out the extra crib (still assembled in Bella's room) and moved her. They did fantastic. Bella woke up upset once which disturbed Anastasia but only momentarily, and I don't think any of Anastasia's whimpers bothered Bella one bit.

Night number 2 went pretty much the same, but with more coughing, sadly. Neither of the girls slept well, but it was independent of one another. Neither Patrick nor I slept well either, of course. Sometimes it might be easier if their wakings overlap. If they have to wake up, that is.

Last night, number 3, was the best night's sleep any of us have gotten in almost a week! Bella was undisturbed by either of Anastasia's brief wakings, and we all woke much more rested today. I refuse to darken my optimism with the realization we will likely still have our share of trials; instead, I am choosing to focus my attention on the huge victory of overcoming the initial hurdle. We have many years of adjusting to life's stages, I'll just take this one right now.

Quick Takes

2010-05-06T08:11:00.002-04:00

~~~

Anastasia has started mimicking more sounds, experimenting with her own little language more and more. SO very cute, and she's very expressive. Her latest word? "Bella!"

~

I hope our pediatrician at least has the decency to name his boat after my girls. Heaven knows we're doing our part to contribute to his success. We were there again this week, this time for another ear recheck for Anastasia, who easily got a clean bill of health. Bella, on the other hand, spent the time cuddled up on my lap with a fever. She earned herself a strep test while we were there, especially after she said "Mama, I have a headache." After the appointment, when she usually begs to go to either the park or to Mimi's house, she asked pitifully "Mama, can we go home so I can take a rest?" It's been a long few nights with that one.

~

If there is a bright side to having a sick toddler, it is the rare fleeting opportunity to slow down and snuggle. 2:30 AM might not be my first choice of timing, but it is a beautiful opportunity nonetheless. Bella has wanted to be held - not just lean against my side, but cradled "like a baby" as she says. Other than getting continuously kicked by little Boniface who is not as interested in sharing his/her space, Bella and I both love these quiet, close moments.

~

I am 35 weeks. By date, I have about one month left until we get to meet the Little One! The roller coaster of emotions is out of control. The excitement and anticipation is mounting!

~

Bella's latest phrases that are cracking me up:
"In the meantime..."
"Actually..."
"Can you imagine that?"
"I was just thinking about..."

All used in proper context.

~

Major Project (read: STRESSOR) Moving the girls into the same room. Here's the thing: I'm not nervous about the actual sleeping situation. That will be an adjustment that we can't control and we will have to face regardless. It doesn't really matter, it's just the next step. Also, I think they will do well even if it takes a little getting used to. The cause of the stress is the practicalities of moving the furniture, arranging, organizing, and setting up the smaller bed room as a decent guest room. If we had an unlimited budget I could be done tomorrow because I have grand visions. However, the task of emptying junk from one room and making it the girls' bedroom is daunting. Isn't that ridiculous?

~

My mom came and helped me organize for 2 whirlwind days last week. My main floor still looks like a tornado went off and I have to cautiously maneuver around my bedroom, but I could have a party in my storeroom! There is something wrong here, but I daren't complain. At least there is one area of the house under control!

~~~

As always, make sure you check out Conversion Diary for more if you're interested!

Quick Takes

2010-04-30T09:30:00.005-04:00

Here I am again, finally at least writing something.

~~~

Generally, I do not think of myself in terms of “mini” anything. I tend to think of a, uh, bigger adjective. But folks, I have made the transition. No longer am I a sedan-driving suburbanite; no, I have changed my ways and upgraded. I am now a Mini-Van-Mom.

This morning I decided to go crazy with breakfast and treat the girls to Pioneer Woman's Real Cinnamon Toast. I managed to screw up cinnamon toast; the girls were less than impressed. Serves me right for going out on a limb for breakfast. I was feeling good about the amount of eggs and yogurt they had consumed and thought a Friday treat was in order. Monday was a much bigger success; I guess I'll stick to making smoothies for our breakfast treats. Let's face it, they're also a lot healthier; I don't have to justify smoothies.

Anastasia is finishing up yet another round of antibiotics for yet another ear infection. This makes 5 since August for her, which is more than Bella has ever had. It seems that the slightest bit of congestion settles right in her middle ear. This time it was allergies for heaven's sake!

I just sat back down after investigating the laughter coming from upstairs. Normally I would stay put on my behind, taking advantage of the happiness and not interfering, but they were on my bed. I knew I needed to at least peek in to ensure they weren't drawing on the walls or resetting Daddy's alarm clock. Turns out they were watching TV. Anastasia was playing with the remote and they both thought this was hilarious. Kids never fall for dummy remotes, do they. They know where the real ones are. Plan B: time to go outside!

~

Just another reason my husband is my hero: Thanks to rolling kitchen cabinet drawer-shelf things (this is pathetic - I can't even figure out what they're called!) Bella can now pick out her own plate/bowl/silverware/cup and bring them to the table. She can also put away her own dishes out of the dishwasher! I love LOVE LOVE this SO much! It's amazing to me how much this little bit of independence has lightened my load, especially when you eliminate me from the Great Dish Debate that goes on in a 2-year-old's mind.

~

It was an outside day today - the kind of day when cries and protests are ignored and shoes are wrestled on tiny kicking feet and the front door is opened and suddenly life is better. I knew they would be happy outside, they didn't know that until the sunshine hit their cheeks. Morale improved and we have exhausted sun-kissed Girls to prove it.

~

I'm going to bed. Blame my pregnancy brain, or my lack of creativity, or those noisy busy girls who desperately wanted to be chased around the yard again. G'nite.

The Price of Stupidity

2010-04-18T18:21:00.003-04:00

To be filed in the "Well that was dumb" category.

Don't turn away for a head count when pushing a toddler in a swing and leave your hand in the way.

If Looks Could Kill...

2010-04-08T12:03:00.002-04:00

Keep your paws off my chocolate!

Pregnancy Update

2010-04-08T07:30:00.000-04:00

I realize I haven't written a whole lot about being pregnant. This is simply because I would hate to validate anyone's supposition that I whine and complain a lot. For that matter, I would like to to live in the delusion that the Hormones from Hell do not affect me. And when you suggest otherwise I will go cry in a corner.

The truth is this has been my hardest pregnancy thus far, and I'm not sure if it's because I have 2 other young children demanding my energy and attention, or if it's because this is my 3rd child in 3 years. That can do rough things on both mind and body.

"How are you feeling?" Fat and Tired. Seriously, I'm never quite sure how to answer that question. "I feel like I am an elephant gestating for 2 years straight while lumbering around trying to chase the rest of the herd." Better? I DO feel healthy. I started at a lower weight than last and have not gained a whole lot, so that is at least psychologically comforting. Not fitting into friends' maternity clothes can shatter that in an instant, though. This time, though, it definitely has more to do with my belly than my butt. Hey, I'll take it! All the health-related pregnancy points are looking good, for which I am very thankful!

We have nicknamed this Baby according to his/her due date - the saint's feast is St. Boniface. It is also my mother-in-law's birthday. (No pressure, kid...) We're calling him/her Boniface or Bonnie-Connie. (I would like to emphasize that this is a nickname.) I can't even begin to describe the immense amusement I get from watching people's faces when they overhear us call him/her that. Simple pleasures.

Boniface is VERY active. I would say he has a favored way for Mama to sit - slightly reclining with my feet up can induce some serious Olympics. Of course, since this is Mama's favorite position these days *cough cough* ... I feel him(her) a lot. I find such joy in the little, or not so little, movements. Sometimes on a day like today when my attention has been, uh, somewhat diverted, she'll wake up right when I sit down. It's a nice reminder that he's ready to listen to
me talk just for him for a change. I can just spend a few minutes of quality time. Of course, there is the "Really kid? Your sisters have been bouncing off me and each other all morning and you wait until my quiet time to start your round?" response. Despite the exhaustion, there is indescribable joy to feeling Boniface jumping and moving, reminding me that I will meet him/her soon.

Easter Girls

2010-04-07T15:01:00.003-04:00

They posed themselves with the garden paraphernalia. I'm just happy to have had a camera for the moment.

Happy Easter!

2010-04-06T10:45:00.006-04:00

We had a wonderful Easter morning, in true feasting and celebratory fashion.
Bella knew to anticipate the baskets, and was SO eager to run downstairs to hers! Anastasia's excitement came upon recognizing chocolate within her reach.

The girls had a great system - Bella would take a bite of candy and offer Anastasia the rest of that piece. That meant that at any given moment Anastasia had a piece of sweet in each hand! My two-fisted chocoholic. That's my girl.
Bella enjoyed nibbling on candy while playing with the new necklace and telling us all about the new movie she received. (The Tale of the Flopsy Bunnies, by Beatrix Potter.) The fact that she has never seen it did not seem to stop her from telling us all what happens in the story and how much she loves it. The Easter Bunny has good taste. :)

Patrick made some awesome homemade cinnamon rolls - very appropriate for the Easter Feast, and definitely MUST become a part of our Easter tradition. They were the kind that had to be made the night before, with all the tempting yumminess sitting there rising while we endured the torment and emptiness of Holy Saturday. Perhaps that makes the Easter Feast just that much more exciting. Anyway. The smell of them baking combined with the sound of fresh brewing coffee and the sight of my kiddos running around with the world's biggest sugar high made for the greatest Easter morning a Mama could hope for.

The fun continued after naptime with the annual egg hunt at my parents' house with all the cousins. Anastasia was all about picking them up until she discovered chocolate in one of them. That was the end of that. Bella was counting "coins for my piggy bank" until she found one with jelly beans, at which point she walked around just munching on one at a time watching everyone else.
Hope everyone's Easter was just as joyful and sweet! I think we're still recovering from the sugar consumption around here. Anastasia stole the remainder of the chocolate bunny out of the fridge yesterday and shook her head vigorously "NO" each time I tried to trade for something else! Bella assumes she can have jelly beans after breakfast every morning. It's a good thing Easter lasts 8 days; it will take us at least that long to finish off the candy, and twice that time to detox!

ALLELUIA

2010-04-04T08:38:00.000-04:00

CHRIST IS RISEN !!!

INDEED HE IS RISEN !!!

"Silently"

2010-04-01T07:29:00.000-04:00

Try Try again...

2010-03-30T14:43:00.003-04:00

If at first you don't succeed, the Toddler will be sure to point it out.

I was cleaning my coffee pot this morning, which involves "brewing" a pot of cleaning solution, followed by "brewing" several pots of plain water to rinse it through. Bella asked me if I was making coffee, to which I answered "Nope, this is just plain water."

After watching several post of clear water come out, Bella observes,

"You keep trying and trying but you still can't make the coffee!"

Holy Week

2010-03-30T11:54:00.004-04:00

It begins with the *long* reading of the Passion of Christ at Palm Sunday Mass. Somewhere between silently cursing myself for wearing heels and trying to prevent Anastasia from continuously whacking the lady in front of us with her palm, I am struck by the power of Scripture's recount of Christ's ultimate act of Love. I never failed to be shocked at how quickly we turn from "Hosanna to the King of Kings" to "Crucify Him!" I am saddened that is it not simply a story in history but rather a testimony of my own attitude.

Suddenly I realize that Lent has flown by, and am tempted to be discouraged by a sense that I have not done enough. I have not sacrificed enough. I have not challenged myself enough. It can't be this close to Easter, I'm not a saint yet! This is the devil at work, and I refuse to be mastered by despair. Instead, I remember that the Lenten journey does not make us saints no matter how hard we try, or don't. Have I grown closer to my Lord? Have I emptied myself in whatever little way I can to make room for Him to fill me? My failures are mine to own, and it does not change the growth that has happened. Christ has used my frail efforts and has blessed them.

I will use the rest of this week not to try to make up for what I feel is lacking, but rather to simply continue opening myself to Him. I will contemplate the great Mystery of His Unconditional Love for us. I will continue my tiny, seemingly insignificant sacrifice to enter into His Sacrifice.

Montessori-Inspired

2010-03-29T11:48:00.006-04:00

We color-sorted, which was really easy for her.

Then we played the "pattern game" as we have dubbed it. Definitely harder, and her attention span was waning, but she did alright pretty well as long as we alternated who was doing the copying.
Please remind me, however, the next time we play with manipulatives, to find NON-EDIBLE ones.

The temptation is just too great.

Quick Takes

2010-03-19T11:52:00.000-04:00

The Mommy's musings edition:

~~~

Daylight Savings Time is the one day of the year that you are thankful to sleep in until 7am simply because the clock says 8am, but the rest of the day you go around wondering why your body is not nearly as thankful as your mind is.

~

Does anyone else have a paper towel budget? No, really, this thought honestly crosses my mind with frightening regularity. Such as on a given morning when I had used 8 paper towels in the span of 10 minutes for 8 separate messes!!! I'm the kind of person who buys the cheap paper towels and still rips them in half whenever possible. To use so many paper towels so quickly causes me to wonder just how much money we're spending on letting Anastasia try to feed herself.

~

The idea of sanitizing the toilet brush and plunger does not cross most people's minds; however, there is nothing like watching the 15 month old walk out of the bathroom with one in each hand that brings up the overwhelming urge to Clorox everything in sight.

~

I have been looking through some old pictures from my college days. There are so many opportunities to laugh, and to be thankful for the wonderful friendships that I still enjoy. It's always fun to look at friends who were dating, or not dating yet, and are now married with a bunch of kids. Also, there is nothing quite like letting a big ol' pregnant woman with 2 toddlers look at pictures from a time when she did not look atrocious in that bikini. Smiling at a picture from when Patrick and I were dating, I asked Bella who was in the picture. Her response? "I don't know!? Who is that?"

~

It haD been a really long time since we had a date night. A really long time. The on Tuesday my darling husband suggested we use those coupons and actually get out by ourselves. We dropped the girls at my mom's and thoroughly enjoyed a blissful 2 hours all to ourselves. In fact, we drove my mom's nice car with the satellite radio taking our time, leisurely sat through an adult dinner conversation, and were all-too-happy to run an errand for my mom on the way home. All. By. Ourselves. Thanks, Honey!

~
One of the Lenten sacrifices to which I felt called was
Adoration. I cannot even begin to express the benefits I have reaped from this time of quiet, intimate prayer with Our Lord! If you need to find God in the "gentle breeze", His "soft whisper" to your soul, then there is no better place.

~

I am in possession of a maternity mini-skirt. Now with that lovely image in your mind... Happy Weekend!

~~~

As always, go check out Jen's Quick Takes.

Quotable Quotes

2010-03-01T09:36:00.002-05:00

I think it may be time to let Patrick get ahold of my computer and clean it up/out. Everytime I try to open my picture file, say to post pictures to the blog, it freezes up and forgets what we were doing. Maybe one too many head injuries from being bounced on the floor by Anastasia-Saurus, but I'm hoping the amnesia is more related to program-overload or something else easy to fix. Anyway, that's the biggest obstacle to blogging lately, as almost all of my stories have pictures to accompany them and I can't do anything about it. Interesting that the computer is the obstacle and not the kids. We've actually settled into a nice rhythm around here again (soon to be interrupted and require overhaul again, I'm sure).

I'm tying my sneakers -
Patrick: "Wow, not too much longer you'll be able to do that!"
Me: "I don't need help yet, thank you." (slightly offended that thought crossed his mind when I have a few months left to go!)
Patrick: "It doesn't matter, by the time you reach that point it will be summer and you can just wear thongs!"
... uh, ... ...

Sometimes the best quotes are actually a matter of toddler pronunciation.

What we heard: "Papa drunk again."
What she actually said: "Pop the trunk again." (she liked the automatic button my mom had, but the best part was that my dad had just pulled up outside!)

We all have those song lyrics we misunderstood for years and sang wrong...

Singing a favorite song: "Mimi in JAIL!!! Mimi in JAIL!!!"
Actual lyrics: "PB&J! PB&J!" (it's a whole song about Peanut butter and jelly, circa 1970something.)

Spring Fever Giveaway!

2010-02-25T15:25:00.003-05:00

... but not from me.

For all of you anxiously anticipating the arrival of spring, Heavenly Mama Sarah is holding a giveaway in honor of Spring Fever!

Head on over to her blog, This Heavenly Life, and check out the really cool jewelry she is offering. All of it is hand-crafted by her mother-in-law, with unique designs and eye-catching colors.

Of course, the more people that enter the less of a chance I have of winning... But out of the depths of generosity in my heart, and for the sake of getting someone else as addicted to her blog as I am, I'm telling you anyways! So go on, you know you want to at least take a peek.

Early Mornings

2010-02-23T08:25:00.002-05:00

What happens when Mama leaves the box of maternity clothes out in the middle of the floor? Dress-up, of course! Followed closely by a boat ride, immediately followed by a capsize. Luckily, both Anastasia (the unsuspecting passenger) and Bella (the tidal wave) thought this a good game.

This might be the only time I actually want you to look at the mess in the background. I try to start each day with the toys put in their places in order to start the mess fresh. You will notice the doctor's kit, the baby-doll stroller, the boxes, the Fisher Price, the books, stuffed animals... And this was by 8 AM!!!!!!!

The girls both woke up early this morning. No, I mean early. At 7am I can function; I may not be bouncy and enthusiastic, but I can open my eyes and start my day. At 6am I can barely find the coffee pot. Would someone please pass that message along to the Girls???

When we Need a weekend Out of the house

2010-02-22T08:38:00.004-05:00

I have been so lazy lately. Oh wait, I'm pregnant and sick. Maybe that has something to do with my non-existent attention span. I sit and try to write only to re-read and delete on the basis of unintelligible babble. That might happen again today. Or maybe you will wish it would have...

Friday night I got to go out without the kids to the Frederick County Right to Life annual banquet, which was featuring a talk by author-mom-of-12 and one of my favorite bloggers, Barbara Curtis. My mom, sister-in-law Angela, and I enjoyed our seafood dinner and finally meeting "our celebrity." Barbara is one of the most down-to-earth people I have ever met. It was delightful to talk to her, not to mention the freedom of getting dressed up and being out until 11pm! Whew, party-animal!

This past weekend was a good, albeit exhausting, one. After all the snow days Patrick was elated at having to leave the house for work. (He did a lousy job of trying to disguise it.) By Tuesday he was prompting me to make plans for the weekend to get out of the house and do something! Well, mission accomplished. Saturday we headed to Baltimore to Port Discovery, an awesome children's museum. Bella LOVED it! We met our good friends there and the kids had the most active, energy-expending, smile-inducing time possible. As an added bonus they were celebrating Chinese New Year there this weekend, with a dragon dance with drums expo, origami and letter-writing for the older kids, and FREE FOOD from P.F. Chang's. YUM!!! The spiced chicken and fried rice were big hits with our girls, and a very special treat for Patrick and I.

Sunday I made a case for getting Bella outside. "The snow has melted a lot" she says, "It will be easier for Bella to walk in" she says, "It will be fun" she says, "We could use the outside time, too" she says. "She" is dumb. The snow has, in fact, compacted and melted a lot making it more possible for us to walk through. The short-legged 2-year-old? Not so much. So we ended up carrying her AND the sled up the hill over and over again. Of course, the pay-off was great. Bella was SO happy to be outside sledding again. In the end we worked hard to bribe her inside with hot chocolate because WE were exhausted! That was too much like work.

Well, although I have been up since 6am with a grumpy little Munchkin I am still lounging around. After a cup of coffee and some ginger cookies for breakfast it is probably time for me to start my day, before the Little Ones start without me.

Happy Monday!

Quotable Quotes

2010-02-11T16:29:00.003-05:00

(from last late summer/early fall)
We were talking about how foods grow, and we were exploring a cantaloupe.
Mama: "Feel the rough skin, kind of bumpy. Does it have a smell? Look, this is where it attaches to the stem from the vine in the ground!
Bella, pointing to the grocery produce sticker: "And this is where the TAG grows!"

When we were in KY in late January for our new Goddaughter's Baptism, Felicity Grace, Bella was really enjoying her time with the twin 3-year-old boys. There was some name confusion, however, due to the fact we were just coming out of the Christmas season.
"Mama! I'm playing with Michael and SAINT Nicholas!" (Michael and Nicholas.)

Robin (my best friend from college and Mama to those boys and baby Felicity) was stepping out of the boys' bedroom and said "Michael is having some quiet time, so it's going to be quiet in here for a little while."
Bella, in pure innocence, looks up at Miss Robin and says, "Actually, it's going to be a little noisy in here!" (the confused look on Bella's face was priceless, looking at Robin like she had no idea what life was really like. Of course, Bella was right... a house with that many kids is never really quiet!)

In the car on the 8-hour ride home we were singing lots of songs, most by Bella's specific requests. We introduced 2 new ones lately, B-I-N-G-O and Old MacDonald.
Bella: "Let's sing someone had a farm!"

During Mass at the Baptism Bella was standing right beside me watching. When I was holding the candle I looked down and saw Bella furtively blowing in the direction of the flame!

In the snow -
Bella, looking outside: "Wow, we have much snow again! There is snow everywhere!" (that might have been a little understatement...)

Snowmygoodness!

2010-02-10T14:55:00.013-05:00

Round #2 is swarming around us, with blizzard-like conditions!!! Bella is having trouble seeing out our window with all the snow blown against it. Outside our back door "I can't see my kitchen under all that snow!"

The winds are fantastic, creating swirling clouds of snow. In between the big gusts I have been showing Bella (lifting her to see) how the breezes makes the snowflakes dance around. She showed me her own rendition of the "Snowflake Dance."

Temperatures are hovering in the low-mid 20s, but the wind and low visibility makes it unwise to venture outside. Well, except for my hard-working hubby, who has been out shoveling thrice today!

Inside is cozy and warm, thankfully, with our electricity intact. I have so many reasons to be enjoying our snow day - Patrick at home cooking dinner, homemade bread, happy playing girls, laundry loads going, and extra time for blogging and picture-taking.

Hot Chocolate and Snow Ice Cream are on the menu for later.

Best online picture of the day: "Snowmageddon From Space", a satellite image of the snowstorm of last week. (click on the link to view the image)

Praying for the safety of those who have to be outside.

Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland

2010-02-09T13:50:00.009-05:00

Now this is what I call a winter snowfall! With the second snowiest season on record for our area many people are busy complaining about all the inconveniences, but we are snuggled up with hot chocolate enjoying every minute. Our normal (read: boring) little suburb has transformed into a winter wonderland fit for a Rockwell painting, with neighbors out shoveling together and homes tucked behind beautiful drifts of snow.

Okay, it's a little deeper than that romanticized image. Just ask Bella, who came inside and stated indignantly "Daddy put me in the snow!" Luckily it was compacted enough she couldn't sink the full depth; we would have lost her!

She instead preferred to walk back and forth in the path Daddy was diligently creating, staring at the walls of snow rising up around her!

For more great photos check out the video slideshow by talented photographer and friend Stephanie. She has the gradual progress documented beautifully from our state capitol, Annapolis.

For an unusual glimpse at my political cynicism, enjoy this blog post by Virginia-located Barbara Curtis. Global warming, my foot! The irony is too much not to enjoy.

-----> This is our back deck and what's visible of their play kitchen. Bella says "my kitchen is hiding under the snow!"

On Our Bookshelf

2010-02-04T14:27:00.003-05:00

This is a great blog carnival hosted by one of my most recent favorite blogs, This Heavenly Life. Heavenly Mama Sarah writes reviews on what books they're reading, rising my interest in great new finds for little girl minds. We have a couple of these around here, too. This is my first go at participating, so please be patient. I just HAD to finally share! Disclaimer: We have not actually been to the library in a few weeks. We're still in love with the new ones from Christmas so I'm highlighting the one I could read from memory she loves it so much!

Winter is the Warmest Season, by Lauren Stringer

The title itself grabbed my curiosity! The perspective of the illustrations are non-traditional but enchanting. Mostly, though, the language of the book draws both adult and child in to the cozy imagery of the warmth found when it's cold outside! The book must be read with a little body snuggled up on your lap, and both of you will be glad for it! Bella uses some of the phrases from the book in her everyday discussion of what will "warm the inside of me" or "my snowflake pajamas that grew big feet."

So, since this is my first try at writing a short review of a book I'll stop here. I'm not sure exactly what to write to properly entice you to check this one out! All I can say is I approached it with a raised eyebrow and have since fallen in love right along with my 2 year old. As we sit watching the beginnings of another snowstorm it seems particularly apropos, in fact!

Climb Ev'ry Mountain

2010-02-02T08:42:00.001-05:00

It's Mama's fault, really. I'm the one who offered such wonderful climbing opportunities, after-all.

Silly me.

Quick Takes

2010-01-29T14:26:00.006-05:00

~~~
1.
Nesting needs to happen in the 2nd trimester. Every time darling Hubby desires to converse about a project on which we had previously agreed needed to be done it causes his otherwise logical, level-headed wife to totally, uh, spaz-out. Looking around my house right now is a stressful, sweat-inducing event for me, but I have little motivation to do anything about it. I need that driven energy of nesting NOW. Otherwise when the desire and motivation hit me, my body will say "Yeah Right, fatso - you go right ahead but I'm stayin' here on the couch."

~
2.
We have had colds all week, complete with phlegm-vomiting toddlers at 3am. (This is where Dave Barry would point out that "Phlegm-Vomiting Toddlers" would be a great name for a rock band.) We seem to be over the ucky-feeling part, and instead I am just chasing noses all day. Not too bad, considering those noses are attached to the children I have to chase anyways.

~
3.
Are you ready for some brutal honesty??? I haven't put away all my Christmas stuff yet. Disclaimer: this was NOT intentional. No, I was ready the weekend after Epiphany this year, which is a little early for me but I was ready. Instead, see #1 for commentary on my motivation lately. The worst part is that my husband is waiting *patiently* to put it all away in the attic, and he doesn't want to start until it's all ready. I don't blame him, but in the meantime we are still finding stray ornaments hiding under the couch which prompts Bella to ask all over again where is her Christmas tree. Hey, at least that's put away! Baby Jesus is still very patiently sitting on the end-table though.

~
4.
I need to plan some family time on weeknights a little better, I think. We have been on the go so much lately that even Bella is asking to stay home instead of see people. We need a few nights per week that are just for family time. Not that I mind having things to do and people to see, but we need some good quality time around here, too. That could also help explain my exhaustion level lately and why nothing is in order around the house. Hhhmmm, it's all becoming clear. I also know that eating dinner and playing as a family will help us appreciate having friends to see the other nights!

~
5.
Funny Anastasia story for today: Bella went to sleep for nap while Anastasia was still happily playing. I took advantage of the time to start the pizza dough in the mixer and try to scrub the kitchen. Then the deafening silence reached my ears, and my brain was struck by the unmistakable concern that ensues when Mama realizes that no one has been tugging on her legs for the past several minutes. I found her in her sleeping sister's room, tugging on the blankets trying desperately to get her sister to wake up and play with her. Bella was unmoved, thankfully!

~
6.
With Baby #3 on the way, we are starting to think about an upgrade in vehicle. I mean, just an upgrade in size; let's get real. I found Margaret's post about her 15-passenger van particularly amusing when she talks about how they bought in while expecting #5. (sorry for the mistype, Margaret!) Uh, I'm hoping to hold off a little longer before trading in for the schoolbus model... So, when did you realize your family had outgrown the smaller model, and what do you love or hate about your upgrade/upsize? At the rate we're going (3 kids in as many years) a regular minivan should last us another solid good 2 years! *faints*

~
7.
I desperately want more snow. The big snow hit while we were in California enjoying the sunshine, and after we returned we had one opportunity to go sledding. Bella loved it so much and keeps commenting "We don't have any snow anymore!" The irony? We are supposed to be hit with snow/a wintry mix tomorrow morning - the one day of the weekend that we have to drive an hour down to VA.

Jen has more Quick Takes for your enjoyment, including a pretty funny one about English Tea, so go check them out!

Christmas in California

2010-01-28T10:36:00.008-05:00

While I am aware that it is the end of January and no one is actually interested in Christmas-related stories and pictures anymore, I am posting anyway. The girls had such an incredible time, and since I've been falling behind on the baby books also this is my way to compensate. Enjoy!

Vegas, Baby!

Patrick's sister lives in Vegas, a mere 4 hr drive, and we were thrilled to get the chance to see her and have her finally meet the kids! She thoroughly spoiled Bella by planning a trip to the Mirage's Secret Garden where both girls fell in love with the dolphins, but also loved the white tigers. I'm not sure how much Bella liked being that close to the lion, though.

We toured several of the famous hotel/casinos and really enjoyed the unique decor. Even the girls enjoyed all the walking/stroller-riding and the sights and sounds. P.S. Aunt Joelle, Bella is still sleeping with M&M Guy ad Fairy Bear.

Our special Christmas present from Patrick's folks was a trip to Desert Hot Springs and a great family-friendly resort. Bella LOVED swimming!!! Anastasia relaxed in the warm water as if she was reminiscing... There are also ducks and black swans to feed, peacocks and plenty of running space. It was wonderfully relaxing for all of us, which is pretty impressive with 2 toddlers running around!

Christmas morning may have started out slowly thanks to 2 overtired babes, but with a little milk and snuggle time soon we were ready to check out the loot Santa left! It did not take long for Anastasia to get the hang of what was unfolding - er, unwrapping. Bella would unwrap a present, exclaim over it dramatically and enthusiastically, and then hand it to Anastasia. Both girls really liked this program!

As always, the best part of our vacation is seeing family. Bella is old enough to really remember family members, and had a fantastic time with cousins Drew and Demi, and still talks incessantly about them! She also had a great time playing guitar with Uncle John, and lots of snuggle and play time with her Gram and great-grandmas. One of the funniest stories from the trip was singing karaoke with Uncle Tony and Aunt Simone. Yes, we all participated. Perhaps they learned their lesson! Bella and Anastasia both LOVED it! They both enjoyed the dancing with the music, and Bella sang "Rudolph" into the microphone, declining any help!

Quotable Quotes

2010-01-21T09:50:00.002-05:00

These are way overdue! So much in fact that I've lost track of several of the *charming* phrases that have come forth from the mouth of the Two-year-old. We were sans internet for several days, but I think we're back in business, so hopefully I can do some writing again!

Sharing little cheddar snacks with her sister, Bella feels the rough texture on one:
"Oh, this is nasty." (where did she even get that word in reference to food???)

Oh passing gas:
"oooh, Mama, my bottom burped!"

Upon waking from naptime:
"Mama, I put my pacer in my mouth, my blanket by my ear, pulled the covers up, and settled in for a long winter's nap!"

(especially for Aunt Angela)
Chasing Anastasia around with lots of laughter from both:
"Uh-Oh, Anastasia-Monster is a Stinker-ella!"

Toybox Dilemma Solved

2010-01-10T14:11:00.003-05:00

What is the average Mama to do about the constant struggle to pick up the kids' toys??? The problem lies with the one-year-old, who believes it goes against moral conduct to place any toy in a brightly-colored, appropriately placed, toddler-friendly toy receptacle. Do you see where I am going with this?

My "light bulb moment" came when I realized that the problem does not lie with said perfect, angelic Toddler, but rather with my crazy decorative expectations. Therefore, I offer this solution:

Toilet-shaped toy bins.

Given her success and speed ratings with finding the toilet and depositing whatever happens to be in her hand at the moment safely in it, I am sure that this is the logical solution. Just don't mind the change in my living room decor.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-01-06T13:04:00.001-05:00

What happens when a Southern California man sees snow:

How Does One Catch Up?

2010-01-05T21:19:00.000-05:00

When it has been this long since I last wrote I find myself overwhelmed by the story possibilities. Where do I begin? Do I start recounting tales of Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Christmas, plane rides, New Year's? Do I sum up the atmosphere with another round of "Quotable Quotes?" And what to do about the random thoughts tumbling about in my head with no outlet other than my poor over-talked husband - such as the strange, friendly black guy on the plane home, or the irritating fact that radio stations start playing Christmas music before Thanksgiving but then drop it at Midnight on the 26th? I find the task laying before me daunting.

Because this is somewhat of my baby book for the girls I try to update as many stories as possible. Because this is also my writing outlet, I would like to put a teensy-weensy amount of thought and effort into those stories. Because I have 2 crazy toddlers under my care, neither of those seem to happen regularly. And therein lies my blogging dilemma - How do I balance my desire to write with the time involved? The sheer volume of topics would keep me glued to my computer indefinitely, but I hear that kids need to eat every day, too.

I will be posting pictures and quick stories to update, and as usual end up falling back on quickies to get the job done. Maybe once I catch up.... hahahaha, okay okay, at least when I have covered a few key events I'll try my hand at writing again and see what happens.

For now I'm going to bed - those 2 little distractions, uh, Darlings, will be up and ready for my attention early!

Quick Takes

2009-12-11T09:46:00.002-05:00

~~~

First, an update on last week's quick take in which I mentioned how much I am loving Josh Groban's Christmas album. I have one small annoyance - with his incredible reverent voice he changes two little words of "What Child Is This?" What is with artists thinking different words to traditional, classic songs sound better? Was it all that hard to sing "the Virgin" instead of "His mother?" Now that I'm done griping about yet another unimportant minute detail, I will reaffirm that I still love the album.

~

We had SNOW! A solid 4 inches which provided fun and entertainment and childhood bliss this past weekend! Bella absolutely loved it; she climbed mountains, slid down the sides, made a snow angel, and helped Daddy shovel. The only way Patrick got her back inside after an hour was old fashioned bribery. What child can resist hot chocolate???

~

Anastasia is really walking! It's a early, unstable, little toddle and involves a lot of falling, but she has discovered a new mobility and is on the move. Sunday was her first long walk across the floor, and since then she's stood up by herself from the middle of the floor, changed direction, and stopped to pick something up and kept going. It certainly doesn't take kids long, *sigh*.

~

How's your Advent preparation going? I have read all across the blogosphere people talking about feeling unprepared or slacking in their Advent goals. Well, this year I am.... right there with them, as usual. I did manage to get our purple tablecloth and Advent wreath. I set up our Nativity set with the pregnant traveling Mary and Joseph in the center, and have enjoyed listening to Bella tell them how they have to ride a long way to have the Baby sleeping on the hay. Since we are leaving in LESS THAN A WEEK (!) for California our decorations have been minimal, and instead we're just reading about the Christmas story and enjoying the little moments of joyful anticipation. Funny, not being able to do much Christmas preparation has allowed a lot more Advent focus around here. *ssshhhhh* Don't tell my husband I said that.

~

3 days ago we got rain/sleet mixture that washed away most of our snow. Today it's 29 degrees and windy with no precipitation. Our weather here drives me crazy.

~

I need ideas on quick, convenient protein-based breakfast foods. But no egg or yogurt. Lately I can't stomach the idea of carbs first thing in the morning, I NEED protein, otherwise I end up feeling blech all day. I ate those microwavable sausage sandwiches the other day at my brother's house and they were great for my tummy, but not so great for either the food or calorie budgets. Any suggestions???

~

WE ARE FLYING TO CALIFORNIA IN 6 DAYS!!!!! We are more than a little excited about seeing family and spending Christmas with them for the first time in several years! I will most likely NOT be doing Quick Takes next week, unless they are "7 Ways I (presumably) Survived the Plane Ride." The following week is Christmas. Hopefully I will be posting other things before then!

~~~

As always, JEN @ CONVERSION DIARY has wonderful thoughts to share at a whole list of people's Quick Takes, so go check them out!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-12-09T09:15:00.001-05:00

Well child of mine, if you would just sleep in your bed...

Quick Takes

2009-12-04T14:59:00.002-05:00

~~~

Dear Mr. Children's Clothing Manufacturer; Why does cotton children's play clothing stain? There are certain substances with which kids regularly come in contact such as, but by no means limited to: mulch, food, grass, nasal mucus, rubber, and sand, often at the same time. These substances are part of normal childhood development, and can be found on toddlers everywhere. What really really confuses me, though, is that these aforementioned outfits were matching, came home with the same residue, and yet ONLY ONE IS STILL STAINED. Please work on that.

Dear Mr. Clorox Manufacturer; Thank You for getting the stains out of almost everything.

~

Unfortunately, both girls are sick. Last night Bella quite suddenly announced that the inside of her ear hurt. A trip to the doc earned her an antibiotic for her double ear infection and albuterol neb for her bronchiolitis. This seems to be par for the course with Bella, who manages to start wheezing every time we're around someone with a cold. Anastasia earned herself a trip to the doc this morning which revealed a single ear infection and minor bronchiolitis, so more of the pink stuff for her, too - this one's just 3 weeks after her last ear infection! It's going to be a long winter...

~

Anastasia celebrated her birthday (besides being sick) with cake, giggles, and MANY toddler renditions of "Happy Birthday" which earned us smiles every time. Yeah, that girl does love attention!

~

I love Josh Groban's voice. I just opened his Christmas album and instantly fell in love with his rich, classic sound. I love that he makes each song signature without altering the original melody.

~

Anastasia is a crazy child. I spend way too much of my day chasing behind her while she, for example, tries to plug the space heater into the toilet. We have a decorative fountain in our dining area that survived an active, curious Bella just fine; Anastasia pulled it over yesterday... from her seat at the table! But my favorite of the week was my own ice-capades demo courtesy of that little Sneak. While I was brushing my teeth, (a task done in record time when she's hanging with me), she was apparently playing with a bottle of bubble bath unbeknown to moi. Later in the day the unsuspecting Mama walked into the bathroom, only to display a most ungraceful rendition of "Bambi on Ice" but with more arm flailing.

~~~

Check out Jen's Quick Takes, hosted every Friday at Conversion Diary.

Happy 1st Birthday, Anastasia

2009-12-03T07:08:00.000-05:00

Little Baby Anastasia is ONE YEAR OLD. I guess it's about time I admit she is not a tiny baby anymore... perhaps. She has really changed quite suddenly over the past 2 weeks, turning into quite the playful, mischievous little girl.

She is definitely a climber - something new for us! Her world goes mostly UP - on the sofa, on a chair, up the stairs, a stack of boxes, anything.

She loves Bella's singing and play-songs. She recently started trying out the hand motions to "The Wheels on the Bus", "Shake My Sillies Out", "Happy and You Know it." My favorite of all, though, was as I was telling my cousin about Bella's favorite song "gonna wash that man right outta my hair" and Anastasia started rubbing her head with both hands!!!

Miss Social just loves attention from anyone and everyone. The sound of her own name brings a smile to her face, and her attitude very much displays that she knows the world is full of adoring fans. She's right, of course.

Giving Thanks

2009-11-27T08:24:00.003-05:00

I have SO MUCH for which to be thankful that when I stop to really reflect on it all I get overwhelmed. Overwhelmed by God's amazing generosity and His grace. Overwhelmed by the love that surrounds me every day. Overwhelmed by the beauty in every day life.

A few specific Thanks today:

~ For my girls. Obviously. Some days it's easy to get wrapped up in the challenges of parenthood, and if I'm not careful I lose sight of the Gifts that they are to me in Everything. When I see them as opened presents from God, perfect and Good, I can't help but let my heart sing and shout from the rooftops what precious Loves they are. Bella's singing. Anastasia's smiles. Bella's silly games. Anastasia's mischief. Bella's inquisitiveness. Anastasia's exploration. Every. Little. Thing. that is my girls is something for which to be thankful.

~ For my Amazing Husband. Patrick is truly my complementary half. He balances the insanity that is my brain and lack of logic. He is the perfect match to me and an amazing father. Yup, he's certainly worth being VERY thankful.

~ For surviving 4 1/2 days without Patrick while he was in California. I am so used to having his help and the consolation of him being home early every evening that I was a little nervous. I'm also thankful for the help and company of my favorite neighbors, my brother and his family. Angela came and helped me clean up one day, and invited me to dinner almost every night! I think I was almost spoiled...

~ For our trip to New Orleans! Finally seeing cousins after 10 years and catching up with lots of laughter and love. For Po' Boys, Jambalaya, Red Beans and Rice, Gumbo, The French Quarter, Hurricanes, Drive-Thru Daiquiri shops (more for Pat than me...), Dixieland Jazz, Jackson Square, mandarin trees in the backyard, great parks, and good friends.

~ For celebrating the lives of 2 great men. My cousin Walthen passed away at age 88, quietly with his wife of 65 years at his side right after receiving Last Rites and the Eucharist. His life was celebrated with his whole family around, lots of singing and laughing and eating, just the way he would have loved. Patrick's Uncle Steve died suddenly last week, unexpectedly but with his wife at his side. Pat was able to fly out for the funeral, and his life was celebrated with his children and grandkids around. There was lots of love, which, along with joy and laughter, is what Uncle Steve will best be remembered for by us! Bella took to him immediately, with his winning smile and contagious laugh. May the Souls of the Faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

~ For welcoming another gift of Life! Baby #3 is due in early June!\

So my Gratitude List, although certainly not exhaustive, did a decent job of updating the goings-on in our lives right now. We've been busy! Happy Thanksgiving! Now on to the preparation for Advent...

Quotable Quotes

2009-11-25T12:13:00.004-05:00

Yes, I realize this is avoiding actually talking about everything that's been going on lately, but hey! At least it's something, and all things that brought a smile to my face :)

At the restaurant -
Bella: "Mama, I need to go to the restroom. "
Then, leaning over in a whisper, "I need to go pee."

After a long car ride during which Anastasia screamed the entire time, despite Bella's persistent attempts to make her happy with songs and games -
Bella: "Mama, I have a problem. I need your help."
Me: "What's the matter, sweetheart?"
Bella, with a pathetic little voice: "I have a problem. Anastasia won't stop screamin' and I'm gonna scream back at her!"

During a visit with my cousin, apparently Bella felt neglected -
Bella: "Mama, I need something."
Me: "What do you need?"
Bella: "I need attention."

While we were staying with my cousin in New Orleans (about which I will post about eventually) we were quite spread out in our sleeping arrangements. My folks in the spare bedroom, Bella in the other extra room, Patrick and I in the den, and Anastasia in the laundry room. (she needed a good cry-it-out before we all went crazy.) When more family unexpectedly came into town my mom was explaining that we were taking up more room than we needed to and could happily condense.
Mom: "I feel terrible about taking up 3 rooms, it's not hard for us to condense, really!"
cousin Leslie (in a rich southern drawl): Well honey, no one's fightin' over the laundry room!"

Friday Quick Takes

2009-11-06T11:20:00.004-05:00

~~~

I keep telling my husband that the reason I'm not writing anymore is because I'm just not funny anymore. Well, that's presuming I was at least a little witty or borderline amusing before... Life is hilarious, yes, but I seem to have lost any ability to capture that humor in words. I guess I'd have to say "Words fail me" which could very possibly be the first time in my life. The good news is that Bella does keep me laughing regularly, and I have a lot of other funny people in my life so I am sure that one day that useless brain cell reserved for being funny will wake up and I'll be back on track. In the meantime, I will let life be funny all by itself.

~
Speaking of funny, there's Bella. Oh goodness, this child...
Me: Good morning, Bella.
Bella: "Hi Mommy, I slept very well and had good dreams about ____(fill in the blank with something new each day). Daddy at work?I not want to call him now, maybe later. Now I want to go play with naked baby(doll) and Anastasia." Can we say motormouth?

~
Halloween was a BIG hit here. We spent about 2 weeks parading around in different costumes "pwetendin" trick-or-treating, which I had encouraged thinking it might help her on the actual night. Bella can be very shy and reserved and I did not want her to freak out the minute we stepped out in the dark, so we read books and played. Well, I shouldn't have worried. We had big cousins with us, which is always a confidence booster, and then we started with 3 houses we know well. It took ONE house to figure out that this meant REAL CANDY. CHOCOLATE. That child ran up to each house (as fast as her tiny legs can carry her, which was way behind the rest of the pack) and confidently announced "Trick or Treat!" and a big "Thank You!" afterward. She tired quickly, which is all the better since now she believes she should eat as much candy as she wants each day. The supply is dwindling which is a good thing for all of us.

~
Anastasia loved Halloween, too, but she doesn't know what she's missing in the bright orange pumpkin bucket. No, she was more interested in being outside with a lot of people walking around cooing over her. Miss Social broke into an irresistible smile everytime I called her "My Baby Bumblebee!" Who wouldn't be charmed?

~
I was just checking out a new clothing line at Target.com that was featured at one of my favorite freebie/giveaway sites. Given this is a new designer I decided to click the "sizing chart" button to determine how much fabric they count on using. I was directed to a list of sizing options, including "Tent Buying Information." Enough said.

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Okay, another Bella story because it just happened and it's been the highlight of my day thus far. She was pulling her panties back up "all by mysewf" and was reminding herself how they go. "The ruffles in the back, the ruffles in the back, hi-ho the dairy-O the ruffles in the back." (I have never sang that.) She also was "brushing that dirt right off of that seat" (her favorite South Pacific tune) earlier, too. She is forever making up lyrics to whatever tune is running through her head at that moment. She's kinda liker her Daddy in that respect, although she knows the right words...

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WE ARE GOING TO NEW ORLEANS!!!!! I am SO excited! A little nervous about traveling without Daddy, but I will have my mom. Bella will have her Mimi, is there anything else we need? My mom and I have been talking about going to see her relatives for a few years now, and had tried to plan something last year and it just never happened. This week she calls me up and says "let's go now." Well by Tuesday afternoon we had decided to fly instead of drive, had talked to all the relatives, and bought tickets Wednesday. Oh-oh-oh, I can taste the Po' Boys now! And catfish. And Beignets. mmmmm.
The best part of course is the chance to see the friendliest relatives anyone could ever ask for. I haven't been there in 13 years (!) and have a lot of catching up to do. Pray the travel goes well; once we're there it's like being home.

~~~

Now, go visit Jen @ Conversion Diary for more great Quick Takes from other great bloggers.

Dave Barry Describes My Life

2009-10-26T10:26:00.002-04:00

" The biggest problem with children's songs is that many of them call for actions on the part of the listeners. My Daughter, who is very strict, expects everybody to perform these actions. So if we're listening to "I'm a Little Teapot" and she notices I'm using my arms for some frivolous activity such as steering the car, she will repeat "Daddy do it! Daddy do it!" until I let go of the wheel and form my teapot handle and my teapot spout. I have discovered that I can, in fact, steer with my forehead, but visibility is a problem. "

Quick Takes

2009-10-23T14:26:00.003-04:00

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We LOVED Gram's visit! As if they don't always seem too short, this time we all managed to get sick while she was here, too. However, despite our little bout with head colds we did venture to the zoo (a Bella favorite), the park, a yummy German dinner, a walk along the Potomac River in Point of Rocks, VA., baked muffins, daily Mass, Adoration once, and introduced painting with paintbrushes. A very good time was had by all, and we all miss her greatly. This is the first time that her leaving has caused such trauma, and Bella cried when Gram walked away into the airport. We're better now, but Bella does constantly dream and talk about when she will see Gram again.

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Anastasia used Gram's visit to show off. She started walking behind a walker, and pushing Bella around on a riding toy. There's no going back now; she has given up any activity that limits mobility and is intent on trying everything now.

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My favorite Bella story of late: Bella sings all the time, and all different kinds of songs. Her latest favorite is "I'm gonna wash that man right out of my hair" from South Pacific. She really gets into it, with great inflection and even ending the song in a crescendo. We sing that while I wash her hair, and then when I started listening to Broadway music again it came on and she stopped dead in her tracks and started singing along! TOO cute, and now she bursts into it whenever the mood strikes her right. OR when it comes on the radio. Or when prompted to perform for Mimi's friends because it's just too cute not to share.

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Word of advice - one should be careful when praying for increase in virtue. Welcome Home, Humility. For a few weeks I was doing pretty well around the house and with the girls, settling into a rhythm and routine. Please don't confuse that with the house being clean or my kids behaving perfectly, but I was just doing my best. Wouldn't you know that went down the tubes right before my mother-in-law arrived, and on a day when my uncle and his family came for a visit for the first time ever. Then of course there's the kids' behavior at Mass - I start to think to myself "yeah, we can do this. Bella is just so good in Mass, I must be doing something right." And then we have so many bad days in a row that I think the only one smiling is Jesus. *sigh* Yes, that's me sneaking out the back with my head down.

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I LOVE warm fall days; they are as close to perfection we have around here. There is nothing like taking the kids outside on a day that's cool enough to run and jump and play and bring out the rosy in their sweet little cheeks. Today was the girls' first experience with leaves this year (it didn't leave much of an impression with Bella last year) and they loved it! We raked a pile for jumping, and Bella and her cousins ran and jumped and buried themselves and did everything kids should do in the perfection of crunchy leaves on a warm day. Of course my camera was left behind, sorry.

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We celebrated our 4th wedding anniversary this week!!! You know, a LOT can change in 4 years. Nothing will bring this home as fast as watching your kids play. Happy Anniversary to my beloved Patrick - here's to 60 more!This is an oil painting by Patrick's mom.

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I recently revisited the National Toy Hall of Fame website and enjoyed. We are following that great example in our living room right now - you would have to maneuver around a large cardboard box/ tunnel, but OH the hours of amusement!!! Thanks to Maria AND Jen for reminding us that Christmas is only 9 weeks away!

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Go visit Jen at Conversion Diary for more great Quick Takes!

Who's Watching the Baby?

2009-10-19T21:25:00.004-04:00

It's an important question. Let's suppose, for a moment, that it was her cousin's 2nd birthday, and we were celebrating with an ice-cream cake outside. And let's say I was holding the newborn baby nephew, and there are 2 toddlers and 1 preschooler running around like wild banshees. And the quiet, happy, easy Baby is sitting in the grass.

What happens?

Oh, yes.

My MY that was good!

2009-09-29T15:02:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I stand in another room and listen. It's like eavesdropping on heaven, listening to that sweet Angel laughter. My whole heart swells with indescribable joy at the squeals of happiness emanating from the hidden picture of childhood bliss.

Sometimes I peek through the crack in the door and watch. From my hiding place I witness small acts with great love. I am privy to the secret world of gentleness and kindness. Virtue in its purest form.

You do not need to remind me that it does not last. Please don't jar me back to the harsher side of life with multiple children. I am not so naive as to believe that this is the full truth. I know that any moment this serenity will be shattered and my intervention will once more be required to maintain health and well-being. For right now, though, in this moment, I am simply breathing in the glory of heaven, the very peace of God.

In the Kitchen with Kate

2009-09-24T21:37:00.002-04:00

Bring your fire extinguisher. Haha, just kidding, I haven't set anything on fire since I ignited a microwave trying to pop popcorn as a college student. Ironic, huh? Oh wait, there was the time my brother made it clear I was the only person he knew who could ruin a grilled cheese. And... oh, never mind. I'd like to think I've come a long way since Ramen! In fact, I can boil water for pasta with the pros! :)

Which is what I was thinking about the other night - pasta. YUM. We eat a lot of it around here; it's cheap, easy, healthy, easy, flavorful, easy... are you noting the theme here? The point is that Italian cooking is a dream for the inept chef like myself. Italians have it all right when it comes to food - they emphasize fresh ingredients and then use a few simple ones that come together with the passion of a hot summer night. MMMmmmm.... okay, back to the kitchen.

1) I love my garden. As I mentioned in the last post, I have not exactly been super attentive to my tomato plants this year. I can only worry about so many living things and the two-legged kind have to come first, even if they are more demanding and exhausting. But God is good to me, either that or He has a funny sense of humor because we are overflowing from the bounty of a rich harvest... jungle-style. SO, the FRESH ingredients make the world, or at least the kitchen, a better place. Oh sure, it's a heck of a lot of work cutting up all those ^$*&# Roma tomatoes, but OH the flavor with which they come packin'! We also have fresh Basil, Thyme, Parsley, bell peppers, jalapeno peppers (because you know I like it spicy!) and apparently zucchini. The latter is totally a spite plant, having been planted by my husband late in the season to unprepared soil and I declared I was not going to have anything to do with it. Of course. Anyways, my point is having a few fresh ingredients on hand makes cooking more pleasurable and the result tastier.

2) Prepping those fresh ingredients takes a little time, so I recommend you start now. You will have everything set and ready for a nice home cooked meal right before you send the kids off the college. Planning earlier in the day, during their naps for example, can really help too, but removes the excitement of having toddler hands helping you. Do you know what you're missing if you're not cleaning your hands every 45 seconds to fish something else out of the baby's mouth or redirect the toddler away from the knife?

3) Speaking of kids, I LOVE letting Bella watch me. I pull the step stool over to the counter and let her watch the process. I tell her that next year it will be her job, and she's young enough to like the idea. She's fascinated with the process and we have lots of talking time while I work. Plus, I at least know where she is.

4) Shapes are not just for toddlers. The shape of the pasta is responsible for how well the sauce adheres, and therefore how much goodness you can get in one bite. If there's a particular shape recommended for a dish, it's probably with good reason. Of course, I have my own preferences and I definitely vary depending on what I have on hand, but we stay pretty well-stocked on penne, rotini, and spaghetti/capellini. Also, "rigate" means "with little ridges" which also grabs hold of more sauce. Think similar concepts if you change it up. Kids might love bowtie (farfalle) but it just won't hold that bacon, onion, and tomato sauce. ( Amattriciana)

5) If you've passed first grade, read the whole way through the recipe before you start. Now, this might not be a big deal for the majority of the adult population who have been cooking from recipes since they were old enough to be trusted around a stove, but as I mentioned that happened a lot later for me. After a few times of not starting the pasta water boiling or using all the oil at the beginning and ending up with a slippery mess I figured it out. I might be a slow learner, but I am still hoping to spare another my husband's fate.

6) Oh, another note about the cooking of the pasta - don't add oil to the water! A touch of salt, YES (it's about osmosis and pulling water into the starch) but NO OIL. Stir your pasta to keep it from sticking. If you add oil the pasta will soak it up like sunbathers catching the rays, preventing it from soaking up the good stuff at the end. It can only hold so much, and you want it to marry the sauce over which you are laboring. "And the two shall become one." Definitely God's design, here.

Anything else? Probably. I am a simple cook, who likes a variety of flavors and LOVES simplicity. If anyone is interested I'll even share a few standard recipes we have a lot around here. But trust me, they're worth it. Oh, and take down the smoke detectors, I'm about to brown chicken.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-09-23T06:36:00.000-04:00

Man, look at the size of that zucchini!!!

Brought to you by My Garden. Proof that God can bring forth food from the earth despite my neglect.

So, not totally Wordless... you can forgive me, right?

Quick Takes

2009-09-18T15:53:00.004-04:00

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Anastasia had her 9 month check-up today, and our Happy Little Hippo, the Chubby Cherub, is actually .... not all that heavy! Weighing in at 18lbs 3 ozs puts her in the 30th % !!! Her length is still 40th %, and her head circumference... well, that's the 95th %. Okay, so she has a fat head. But she is growing well, and is pretty much right on par for a healthy 9 month old, every parent's hope. She is clapping her hands a lot, which is SO cute - Bella loves to make her so happy that she'll clap, or sing a song that provokes it. All through the day the strains of "If you're happy and you know it" and "patty-cake, patty-cake" can be heard setting the soundtrack of my life.

~

I actually followed a menu plan for 2 weeks in a row! Can you believe it? I can't. I spaced out cooking a few meals, used left-overs wisely, and only bought pizza on Monday because the Raven's played well enough to get us free yummy toppings. Does your Papa John's have a football deal? It's such a fun, affordable treat; it might be the only reason I really care about pro-football.

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Potty-Training is moving along quite well. We have fewer and fewer accidents, and greater milestone successes. Take early n the week when Bella insisted on wearing panties to the park. Yeah, you know, that big activity crazy place that causes kids' awareness to be limited solely to what they can climb and slide down or how fast they can run and NOT at all the normal bodily functions or the sound of Mama's voice? Not to mention the only potty was the portable type that's 1/4 mile away. Well, I figured that if she had an accident I had wipes and diapers and she would simply change; however, she stayed dry the WHOLE time including on the ride home! She did great. Let's follow up that story with a confirmation of my own brilliance the day that I put her to bed for her nap so quickly that I forgot she was wearing panties...

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My my mother-in-law is coming in less than 3 weeks! I am so excited, I LOVE her visits. I think one of my favorite aspects of her visits is how easy it is to make daily Mass. When I have someone helping me get the kids dressed and fed and then someone to help hold/corral during Mass, it makes it a snap. I rely heavily upon others' help when it comes to Mass, although the more we go the better Bella behaves, and recently she's been really good and quiet. Any tips for teaching a 2 year old? We talk ahead of time about sitting quietly and whispering, and how we only talk to Jesus during Mass and how happy it makes Him to see us there. Sometimes she gets treats afterward, but not often enough for her to expect it. She recently learned to genuflect! Between that, and loudly announcing "bye-bye Jesus" as we leave, well, she's about as cute as can be.

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My hubby just installed a setup that plays music from my computer through a tuner connected to actual speakers. Crazy - it's like having a, what was that thing called, a stereo??? He explained this way I could load all my CDs, one by one, on to my computer and that all my music would be stored here and I would never have to go looking for a CD again. One at a time. ... The other problem is I still take them for car rides in his car with its CD player so I'll still have to have them stored somewhere within reach. Here's the thing, though - he showed me a website, called Pandora.com that's an online radio almost like satellite with variety you make up entirely yourself with suggestions from them based on the type of songs/artists you have selected. Sounds complicated, but it really isn't. The HUGE benefit is that I'm listening to great music, mostly hand-picked by me! I've been belting out Broadway, crooning to country, and serenading with Sinatra. Of course, there is the little detail of the ginormous speakers now a fixture in my living room... hey, the price of entertainment!

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That same thoughtful, caring hubby just brought both girls for a walk, letting me have a few minutes to write the blog post in peace and quiet. Or with the music in the background...

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I'm grasping at straws trying to come up with the last Quick Take. With so much to talk about I simply can't come up with anything right now. I'm tired, it's been a very long and emotionally exhausting week, and I'm going to climb into my PJs and watch a movie with my hubby. And that's it. Here's wishing you all a great weekend, and pray that the weekend brings more energy and patience. Maybe my sense of humor might even return. :)

Visit JEN @ Conversion Diary for more (and much funnier) Quick Takes.