. . . . . . Bella Maria Mom . .

House For Rant

2012-02-01T16:31:00.000-06:00

Okay, so most of the time I try to stay on the up and up, but not today.
It's been one of those yucky days, we've been sick since Christmas(totally NOT kidding here)
and I haven't had a lick of sleep in what seems like weeks...well, you know a few hours here, 5 minutes there, you get the picture. I'm sick and GRUMPY today and I feel like pulling out the last couple of hairs left on my scalp.

This is what I see walking through the house today.

In the kitchen, there's been a peanut butter massacre, it's smeared all over EVERYTHING, the counter, the walls, the cabinet doors and drawers, the sink, package of bread lying on the counter, the knife, the handle of the knife, the lid and all outside of the jar.
The living room, crushed and ground into the carpet as much as toddlery possible saltine cracker carcasses, little pieces of paper torn up just for sport, slimy wet kleenex arranged artistically on the computer desk, on the end tables, on the window seat, on the floor...etc. Books thrown randomly around with torn pages and an occasional chunk missing, shoes, sock/socks(they are never in pairs), pencils, papers from school, cups of water, a chunky puzzle without any of pieces within eye shot, a broken popsicle stick.
The dining room: pretty much just an extension of the living room area...just LOVE that open concept living! The exception is plates, cups, crumbs, napkins, and various school items like broken crayons, pencil shavings, lids to markers, pencil lead...

I'll spare you any more details, as I haven't been into the other parts of the house. I won't even get into the behavioral issues, but it hasn't been pretty.
I love my kids more than I love myself, but today, I can't bring myself into "feeling" it.

BUT, I have the best hubby in the world, because he told me he's taking the kids "out" for dinner, so I can have some peace and quiet. I'll probably even miss them......

Komen Halts Grants to Planned Parenthood

2012-02-01T09:33:00.000-06:00

KOMEN CHARITY HALTS GRANTS TO PLANNED PARENTHOOD
The nation's leading breast-cancer charity, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, is halting its partnerships with Planned Parenthood affiliates — creating a bitter rift, linked to the abortion debate, between two iconic organizations that have assisted millions of women.

Read the rest of the article here:http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/46209349/ns/health-womens_health/

Bathroom Progress

2012-01-29T22:35:00.002-06:00

Progress in the bathroom is slow going. The walls have been a HUGE challenge needing many layers of drywall mud, sanding, painting and then when an imperfection is made visible through the paint, the process starts over again. However gruelling and time consuming it may be, it is the most affordable method and also the most desirable...in my opinion anyway;) So here is a shot of part of one wall that is nearly complete. We also framed the mirror using trim to add a little embellishment. The cost was $7.50 for the trim and Liquid Nails Mirror adhesive both purchased at Jabara's Damaged Freight..pics below.

I really love our new soap dispenser...a Christmas gift... from Bath & Body Works.

One issue we had after removing the old tile was that it left an enormous gap between the floor and wall. One visit to Jabara's fixed that with $3 trim with a wide base that easily slides into place.

Close up of the mirror trim, it still has the star shaped mirror clips, but they are not nearly as noticeable with the trim.

Good for hanging mirrors and it worked well to apply the trim frame.

Sunroom/Art Studio

2012-01-20T09:54:00.001-06:00

Every year our homeschool group hires a wonderful artist to give our kiddos instruction. She is very reasonable in what she charges.

Previously, we had rented a room in a rec center which is very pricey. Although, we were able to split that up amongst the families, it was still cost prohibitive. Last year, I offered to use our sun room. So the families are able to save the cost of the room rental. I hope it works out for everyone.

We obviously use our sun room as a laundry room. I have dreamed of having a beautifully furnished room out there, but this seems like a more practical short term use.

We are still awaiting a few more chairs from some of the other families.

Inside the Atrium

2012-01-17T21:54:00.000-06:00

I wanted to share some pics from our atrium at St. Francis for the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program. These photos are of our Tuesday 3-6 year old class.

Working with a tracing packet from the Pearl of Great Price presentation.

Silk flower arranging, a practical life work.

Adoration of the Shepherds

Annunciation materials

The Pearl of Great Price materials

A sweet girl praying after setting up the altar. (grown-ups light the candles and sit nearby.)

Plant polishing, another practical life work

This little girl is coloring the 4 liturgical colors we have learned about.

The art and practical life corner of our atrium.

Bathroom Reno Peek

2012-01-15T21:27:00.006-06:00

No matter what our future holds, one thing's for sure, the old harvest gold upstairs bath has to be redone. Many of the tiles are cracked and falling off the wall and the grout is either gone, stained, or chipped.

Eli helping peel off the glued on drywall

BEFORE

AFTER

So here are a few shots of the demo and a pic of the new laminate, sink, faucet, and tile. If it looks familiar, we used the same laminate and tile from our kitchen makeover. Not only was this the most cost effective route, it keeps the house consistent.

We were hoping to stay under $200 for the bathroom....so far we're at :

Faucet $25
Sink $25
Laminate $27
Glue $12
Tile $14.50
Adhesive & Grout $0-Leftover from Kitchen Makeover

TOTAL- $ 103.50

We have chosen Raffia Cream by Behr for the walls:

This looks much better on the swatch..it's a very rich and deep creamy color.

The walls are in BAD shape, I've been removing 2 layers of wallpaper and some of the wallboard is chipped up. Ugh! I do have to say it was pure pleasure tossing that tile in the trash!!! Bye-bye harvest gold!!

One of the pretty layers;)

Response To Comments

2012-01-14T15:23:00.001-06:00

Hi! For some reason, I am unable to respond to comments on my blog???

I just wanted to post a response to Josette who said, "wow! I am ashamed at all that I don't do and yet inspired at the same time. Wow!!!!!! On the "Meet Katie" post.

Josette, I too am edified beyond words. God is calling each and everyone of us to help care for our neighbors whether they live next door or across the ocean. What is our response? I can only speak for how He has spoken to my own heart. Little by little, Jesus has gently spoken to my heart and asked me to seperate myself from the distractions of life in the sense of materialism. He wants me to pull away from media that would be damaging to my fragile soul. He wants me to listen to Him through the Mass, our priests, His word and works, to my husband and to His sweet whispers to my heart. I believe now that Don and I have been praying for over a year about a call to mission life, that call has only increased and become stronger for both of us. We are going through a time of discernment with a priest and with friends who have walked this path before us. God only knows what the next few years holds for us. My only prayer is to do the will of God and not my own.

“Once our eyes are opened, we can’t pretend we don’t know what to do. God, who weighs our hearts and keeps our souls, knows that we know, and holds us responsible to act.” Proverbs 24:12

Meet Katie

2012-01-11T16:37:00.001-06:00

This is Katie Davis. She is 21 years old from Nashville Tennesee.

1 year of mission work in Uganda changed her life.

After graduating from highschool, she signed up to be a kindergarten teacher in Uganda.

Even though she agreed to attend college after that year, God had different plans for Katie.

She returned to Uganda.

She loves the forgotten.

"They are real people. They are my friends. They are God's children."

"Please pray specifically for Nabakoza as she may be nearing the end of her life. At 23, she weighs just 37 pounds (not typos.) She has been severely neglected all her life. My sweet friends Renee and Shana drove 2 hours to the hospital in Kampala only to be told that they would not take her, she was too far gone. After trying four different hospitals, all claiming they couldn't help, they brought her home where we are just trying to keep her warm and cuddled and covered with the love of Jesus."

She adopted 14 girls.

She feeds 1600 orphans and poor children everyday through Amazima Ministries, that she founded when she was 19.

She opened a school, started a work program for mothers so they won't turn to prostitution, she helps young men and women achieve higher learning through vocational programs and university assistance.

She nurses babies back to health by providing foster care.

She loves God above everything.

She is just 1 average person.

Meet Katie.

Morning Time

2012-01-10T14:45:00.004-06:00

We are loving our "new" school and one of those reasons is because of Morning Time.
After breakfast, we gather together in the living room. I usually let Benny and Charlie play while the older kids are eating breakfast and then right before morning time, I fix Benny and Charlie their breakfasts so they can eat but still hear during morning time. So far, this works for a few moments of quiet, but they have played pretty well after....with a few distractions;)

We pray a morning offering.
I read the gospel and we reflect and discuss it. Benny surprised me today with explaining to me what he heard.
The focus is then directed to our monthly art piece that has been laminated and displayed. The pieces are from a program called "Art Masterpieces: A Liturgical Collection" available from Catholic Heritage Curricula...I've mentioned this before. One special project a month is required from learning about the painting, scripture passages, and artist.

Below is a page from the Art Appreciation Guide that comes with the set.

We also read Blessed Pope John Paul II's weekly segments from his book, "My Dear Young Friends" Each segment includes a Think About section, a Take Action section where the kids have to do a challenge, a Prayer section and a trivia fact about Blessed John Paul II.
We read a poem from Laura Berquist's "The Harp and the Laurel Wreath" There is a section in the book that has discussion questions after to reflect on the poem's meaning. We discuss this as well.
Finally, this week we are reading aloud "Hind's Feet on High Places" by Hannah Hurnard.
We follow up morning time with an overview of expectations for the day including assignments, chores, and projects.

Morning Time usually takes about an hour...depending on distractions.
Then while the kids do school, I turn on classical music...it's amazing what a calming, yet focusing effect this has had on all of us.

The Very Best

2012-01-08T22:30:00.001-06:00

As most mothers do, I want the very best for my children. Early on, I imagined that meant living in a comfortable (well decorated) home, driving a safe vehicle with car seats, allowing them to explore their hobbies and interests by enrolling them into classes, having appropriate entertainment, making sure they were well dressed, or at least matching...etc...you know the typical "Middle class American Dream."

Pondering the feast of the Epiphany and reflecting on Fr. Jerome's homily this morning, I too have had a revelation of Christ. The "best" has taken on a whole new meaning.

I asked the kids, "If you die today, what will you take with you?" A couple of the kids half rolled their eyes and responded in unison, "nothing."
"You are wrong." I replied.

I explained that while we can't take our favorite Lego model, dress, video games, or DVD, we could take many other things. For instance, our faith, virtues, memories, grace, relationships, prayers, love and endless spiritual attributes. It is these things we must try to acquire in our life.

Our life span is similar to a drop of water in the ocean, our soul represents all the other drops. Life is short, our soul continues forever. However short our life is, it is extremely important because what we do in this life affects what happens to our soul in death. In every moment, in every breath, in every thought, in every word, in every deed, we are called to glorify God. We should work hard to build up our spiritual suitcase for the journey. The truly best we can take with us. This is what I want for my children and all of God's children.

Catching Up

2012-01-05T12:23:00.001-06:00

It's been awhile since I've posted more than just a single thought post. Our family has been making some major changes. This time away has been an immersion in prayer and seeking God's will for our family.

Change #1 After much prayer and promptings by the Holy Spirit, we have withdrawn from Lawrence Virtual School/High school. Education at home is MUCH different now. We focus on prayer, daily gospel readings and our faith.

We are still trying work to out all the kinks, but we are really at peace as a family....finally. The kids are THRILLED with this new approach.

Change #2 As a family we feel called to share what we have in a more significant way. We are in the process of simplifying our lives and our home. The first step was going through the storage room, filling up the van and leaving our treasures at the Goodwill. This will be an ongoing effort as we have never lived very simply, except for on vacation;)

Change #3 I am trying to be a more submissive wife and allow Don to be the true head of our family that God has intended him to be. This is hard for me as I am a super control freak. Christ be my strength!

Wishing you all Christ's peace, love and happiness in this blessed New Year!!

It's Just My Heartbeep!

2011-12-27T22:26:00.001-06:00

I just remembered a very funny moment from when Hannah was 4 years old and I was pregnant with Benny.

2006

We had been feeling the baby move in my tummy. The kids then went downstairs to play. After a few moments, Hannah dashed up the stairs with a very scared look on her face. She said very seriously, "Mommy, I think I'm pregnant something's kicking me in the chest, FEEL this!" I laughed and said, "Oh, Hannah, that's only your heartbeat, you're not pregnant." She said, "Oh good! It's just my heartbeep!"
She almost passed out with relief.

2006

Wonder of a Snowflake

2011-12-22T15:17:00.001-06:00

Today it snowed...a little.

The kids had been playing outside and I heard the front door open and close.

Hannah exclaimed, "Come out here, you have got to see this...IT'S AMAZING!!"

She proceeded to show me a tiny snowflake that had landed on her hat perfectly and precisely formed.

She told me she had never noticed them before having so much detail. It was nice to hear such genuine wonder and excitement about the beauty of God's creation.

A snowflake in it's intricate design is a perfect example of God's great love for us. Who, other than God would take such careful skill and thoughtfulness to give us such loveliness? The snowflake lasts but a moment, but it's beauty remains in our hearts a reminder of the infinite love of our Creator.

Tiny snowflakes softly fall,

Silent, lovely, beautiful,

All the earth holds such treasures,

Love's epitome of unending measures.

Standing still downy drifting

Breathless wonder espy alighting,

Worthy though I may not be

All this nature deigned for me.

Intricate is His design,

Art created by Love Divine.

Reasons to Love Lacy

2011-12-12T17:14:00.001-06:00

I just love all the free printables found at Catholic Icing!!
The Nativity

The O Antiphons starts on December 17th.

The Feast of the Immaculate Conception Coloring Page.

Pictorial Book of the New Mass Responses.

My kids LOVE this, they have been practicing this afternoon....again;)

Edible Beauty

2011-12-08T12:57:00.001-06:00

Is it possible to fall in love with a website?? I think I have found one of the most inspiring websites to date:

The Prudent Homemaker

I especially enjoy the edible landscape post. The garden is a delight!

She has 31 fruit trees, many of them are dwarf trees which don't require as much space and they bear fruit sooner than full grown trees. I love the formal english design of the garden. Don and I were drooling over each photo dreaming of turning our backyard into something similar.

Here are some of the dwarf fruit and citrus trees.

Most all of the flowers are edible, though they don't eat them usually.

Awaiting Joy

2011-12-07T09:46:00.002-06:00

Welcome to our home for Christmas!

The Whole World is Waiting for Love!
Our manger is very old, you can still see some of the prices on the figures' bases marked 10 cents. My Great Grandfather made the creche decades ago. Although it's worldly value would be very little, the heart value is without measure.

Once again, a simple tree decorated with love by the kids.

Last year Charlie received the "deluxe" Little People Nativity, thanks godfather, Jim!

Hannah's village. Some years we put a village under the tree, but we couldn't this year because of little hands, so Hannah put it on her dresser in her room.

Our stockings are hung...it's funny we started out with matching stockings...and then our family grew.....

One last jingle before you go!
Merry Merry Christmas!

Affordable Advent

2011-12-01T12:04:00.000-06:00

In addition to our Advent wreath that we finally found hiding in our storage room, here are few affordable things we are doing to prepare our hearts for our Savior.

We cut up strips of yellow construction paper and everytime we do something good, kind, or a sacrifice, we transfer the strips to the crib basket.

Then on Christmas morning, hopefully Baby Jesus will have a soft bed to lay his little head on.

I took one of Hannah's dolls and cut up an old stained off-white t-shirt to make the swaddling clothes.

Finally, one of the kids' favorite traditions is opening the advent chocolate calendar. We found these for $1 each at Dollartree. I hope you have a Blessed Advent!!

Parental Rights Overruled

2011-11-29T22:46:00.002-06:00

Overruled Movie

This is ~~scary~~ terrifying.

Educational Entertainment

2011-11-29T11:40:00.003-06:00

Don's parents are "Card Party" people. They travel in packs and rotate parties at different houses throughout the year. They even asked us if we wanted a card table as our wedding gift.(we politely declined) Although, the older I get, the more card games appeal to me. This has also rubbed off on my kids.

After Thanksgiving dinner at Don's parents' house, we sat around the table passing the time with cards.
It dawned on me as I watched the kids "do the math" to figure out 21 and using skills of deduction to play their best hand at Dr. Pepper, this is educational. We also played UNO, which is the perfect game for younger tots just learning their numbers and colors.
Go Fish, Slap Jack, Take-Away, and Memory are also easy to do with a regular deck of cards.
I found a LIST of cards games for kids....it should be a great "deal" of fun learning these;)
Head's up, Dollartree has a 2 pack of cards..$1. A great affordable Christmas gift would be a list of games with instructions printed out with a deck of cards.

2011 Album

2011-11-28T13:27:00.001-06:00

Photo Book Link Click Here

2011 Portrait

2011-11-26T09:48:00.000-06:00

2011 Christmas Photo

Oh Christmas Tree?

2011-11-25T18:06:00.000-06:00

Price: $242.98

LINK

Review on Sams Club online:

"This is the greatest Christmas tree I have ever bought, and I can't get over the price. The quality is amazing and not what you would expect for a low price. The lighting is perfect and the set up was easy. I have recommended this tree to everyone I know."

So, where do you put the star?

10 Strange Facts About Me

2011-11-19T18:54:00.001-06:00

I was hoping to share these...while secretly hoping to learn more about YOU! Shhhh! Please reply with your 10 strange facts.

I hate to drive somewhere I haven't been before..I print out maps and the works...Yes, we do have a GPS...but I hate having to program it.
I have 3 awesome brothers, but I've always dreamed about having a sister.
I almost died when I was 9, I had to have an emergency appendectomy. It was the most painful thing I have lived through...even more so than all 6 of my natural childbirths combined.
When I fantasize, it's often about traveling and planning vacations for my family.
I was asked when I was 20 to "have lunch" by a cosmetics director for a national company to discuss a modeling contract. I declined.
I have an Interior Decorator's diploma that I earned through correspondence school with a Design school in Atlanta, it took me 2 years.
I threw away my all my educational certificates and diplomas 11 years ago because I never thought I would use them again. I do regret doing that.
I HATE the sound of clinking dishes.
My paternal grandparents also had six children, 5 boys and 1 girl. My maternal grandparents had 6 children, 4 girls and 2 boys.
Everytime I see a falling star, I wish to go to Heaven.

Nuetral Nirvana

2011-11-16T12:39:00.001-06:00

I found this redo on Home Sweet & Savory. I like that this bathroom would be realistic for Don and I to implement...for the most part.

We would not tile around our tub because it has a surround and we can't justify the expense of it.

But I love the sink and tile and our floor is very similar already.

I love her attention to detail! Everything so simple, yet elegant in an updated style, but still it's very traditional and nuetral.

Isn't this the coolest art piece? She just took wooden flowers hot glued them onto wooden frames and showcased it on an art canvas. I love it! It brings in a natural element while still maintaining the hue.

Crazy November

2011-11-15T14:02:00.000-06:00

November Birthday club on Halloween

We have 2 months out of the year when it's crazy birthday time. November is one of those months, January is the other.

Eli, Benny, and Charlie all have birthdays within 10 days of each other starting November 7th and ending November 17th.

Combination birthday party with relatives. Birthday donuts!

As we were in the midst of celebrations, Eli did something very sweet for Charlie.

Since we moved into our house almost exactly 1 1/2 years ago, Charlie has made a friend at our Dillons store just a few blocks away from our house.

Every time we go to Dillons, Charlie has to go to his special aisle to visit his friend. He would hold him, talk to him, and then tell him "goodbye".

Charlie's Big 3 Day!

On Charlie's birthday, Eli decided to do something very sweet. He used his own birthday money to buy Charlie his friend.

A sweet big brother with Charlie and his friend, a pull-string puppy.

Kirby Frustration

2011-11-12T11:05:00.005-06:00

While Don worked his way through college, he was employed as a maintenance guy at an apartment complex. It was in this line of work, he fell in love. She was everything he dreamed of, versatile, hard working, dependable, and she could suck the dirt out of the carpet from beneath the carpet pad. Her name was Kirby and she was from the vacuum family. Unfortunately, when he obtained a better career, she was left behind. Until his wife, understanding his love and hearing repeatedly about this relationship, decides he should be reunited with Kirby. Happiness reigned in the Kingdom of Rohr once Kirby was happily home.

As the wife in this story, let me tell you how I feel. Yes, Kirby is hard working, dependable, and she sucks really well. However, she also comes in like a thousand pieces, she's heavy...really heavy, and that makes it super inconvenient living in a quad level house.

Sometimes, I just want to clean up a small crumb mess...quick. I don't want to have to assemble a vacuum like a giant Lego project(seriously it comes with a college level course on DVD so you can learn how to assemble it), pick the heavy thing up and haul it up the stairs. I'm all for high quality products, don't get me wrong, but I also crave simplicity, ease of use, and quick and ready to go products.
The greatest frustration of all is, I can't even assemble it myself, I have to ask the kids to do it for me! However sad and embarrassing that may be, it's true. You see, I failed the college level DVD assembly course.

Do you love your vacuum??

Homeschool Pet Peeves

2011-11-08T12:19:00.000-06:00

The kids eat all day long, I'm constantly kicking them out of the kitchen.
Finding books everywhere...and I do mean everywhere!
If the kids don't get it, I can't blame the teacher.
The dining room table looks like a paper factory.
The kids don't care if they wear matching clothes or not...but I do!
~~The principal takes bribes and plays favorites~~.(maybe this shouldn't be on this list;)
Our house actually looks like 8 people live in it.
I can never find any writing instruments...it stinks to have jot down a quick note with lip liner or a broken crayon.
When I tell the kids to line-up, they just stare blankly at me.
There are no lunch ladies that prepare lunch, serve it, and clean up the mess.

P.S. When I asked the kids what their homeschool pet-peeves were, they said, "There aren't any."
So I guess it's just me;)

Bathroom Inspiration

2011-11-07T14:52:00.000-06:00

This winter Don and I are going to tackle the "ugly" bathroom upstairs. Once again, I have turned to our local MLS to get ideas and inspiration. All these bathrooms are from homes in the Wichita area for @ $500K.

I love the shape of this counter and the under mount sink
is a dream....that might not happen for us.

I like the color of this granite.

There isn't anything I don't like about this bathroom!

Do you have preference?? I am hoping to redo our bathroom for less than $200...let's see if we can stick to that!

UPDATECatholicism Series

2011-11-06T20:17:00.005-06:00

I recieved an email with this message:

FR. ROBERT BARRON'S EPIC SERIES 'CATHOLICISM' ON EWTN. Journey with Fr. Robert Barron to more than 50 locations throughout 16 countries to discover the full meaning of the Catholic faith. Be illuminated by the spiritual and artistic treasures of this global culture that claims more than one billion of the earth's people. Catch the final 6 episodes not aired on PBS, exclusively on EWTN! Begins Wed. Nov. 16 at 9PM ET. For more information visit www.ewtn.com. Don't forget you can watch EWTN online through their website.

4 friends and I purchased this 5 disc, 10 1 hour series at the Catholic Conference earlier this year.
Father Robert Barron, a priest from the archdiocese of Chicago, has released a series of videos on our Catholic faith. If you get a chance to see these or purchase them, I would highly recommend it.

We have watched about half of them, and we have been so captivated. They are beautifully shot, simple in dialogue, and rich in scripture. The series takes us across the globe and gives us the true sense of the term Catholic/Universal, making us feel that connection in faith to our brothers and sisters in Christ. I love that Fr. Barron says that the "church is more than just a community, it is a living organism."

Wouldn't it be great for every parish to play these 1X per month along with a potluck dinner and a chance to visit and discuss them? I believe them to be a wonderful source of evangelization. Click here to watch trailers.

I absolutely head over heels, love my Lord and faith and this is definitely enriching and deepening that love. I have to say that watching these makes me feel very thankful that God allowed me to be born into the one true faith....I often tell my convert friends that God allowed this because He knew I wasn't smart enough to figure it out on my own;)

A Challenge for Life

2011-11-04T16:37:00.002-05:00

This summer at the Midwest Catholic Family Conference, I was blessed to hear Abby Johnson, a former Planned Parenthood director speak for life. Although at times, her testimony was very disturbing, she made an excellent point. She challenged us, "So what are you doing for life?"

I have been thinking about that question ever since.

Recently, a good friend told me she going to pray at Planned Parenthood in conjunction with 40 Days for Life. I told her I would go with her. So we packed up the kids and drove to E. Central and prayed silently kneeling. We had no signs, just bowed heads, tears streaming as we prayed the sorrowful mysteries.

For both of us, this was our first time praying in front of a facility. Our family usually stands with our signs every year for the life chain, and usually we see lots of support in the form of waves, honks, and even a few cheers....and yes, the occasional rude gesture, but over the years, those have been rare.

Today, we had nothing to hold up and display. It wasn't the experience I was expecting. First, a group of teenagers strolled by pointing and laughing...we just kept on praying. We had completed the rosary, my friend had to leave, and had hit the half-way mark on the divine mercy chaplet. A man approached us and began speaking loudly and pointing at us in slurred speech. I smiled and nodded in acknowledgement of him. I wasn't worried, but once he began yelling, we finished the chaplet and decided it was time to leave. We were only there a half hour. It seems like a pretty pathetic beginning for us, but we will return... However, I feel like it's best to have at least 2 adults present, for safety reasons.

I am ashamed to say, I haven't ever really been active in any pro-life activities that have taken me out of my comfort zone.
I could go on and on about what I have failed to do, but that accomplishes nothing. I won't wallow, I will instead try to do God's will.

It wasn't easy to be without a group and to be mocked and yelled at, but that was nothing compared to what our precious Lord endured during His passion, or the suffering of helpless tiny babies fighting for life.

I can see why this isn't a "popular" activity.
But, it is a necessary one.

Million Dollar Kitchens

2011-11-03T12:20:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite pastimes is checking out our local housing market.

These kitchens are found in $1 million+ homes right here in Wichita.

Whenever I am stumped about decorating, I glean lots of great ideas this way.

I can't even imagine paying a million plus for any house...even if I could afford it! It is fun to have a look, though. Which one would you like to whip up a meal in??

A Few Read-Alouds

2011-11-02T10:15:00.002-05:00

I wanted to share a few of the "hits" our children have loved during read-aloud time.
Disclaimer: Most of my kiddos don't actually enjoy these books until they are 5 and up...Don usually takes Charlie out of the room while I read, otherwise, nobody can hear.

These are books that I have read more than 1 time...I know I posted these in an accumulative book post before, but these 3 are worthy of their own post.

I LOVE LOVE LOVE these books, every time I read them, the kids start to behave in a more loving way towards each other.

I have felt the need to reread these books lately, and once again, the love has returned!

What's great is that each story is super short...like 4 pages and at the end there is usually a reference to the catechism of the Catholic Church or a scripture or both and then 3-4 questions about the story for further discussion on the virtue covered...my kids really enjoy this part.

Oh, Narnia the Complete Chronicles, how do we love thee...so much that your cover has fallen off! There are 7 books contained in the complete chronicles which makes it easy not to have to search for a missing volume...I guess that also means if you misplace the 1 book, you've lost them all! Ha! It is hard to misplace, however, it's quite large!I am reading the Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe for the 3rd time! The others I have read at least 2X as well.

C.S. Lewis has a knack of seducing the reader that propels them to keep reading...which also makes it difficult to stop after each chapter! The kids beg me..."You can't stop there, Mom!! I mean, how are we supposed to know what happens next?? You can't just keep us hanging, Mom! Please!!!!! Just 1 more chapter...please?!?!"

My favorite book is the Voyage of the Dawn Treader...I know that I am the dragon in that story, and I have quite a few more layers of scales than Eustace;)

Anyway, you just can't go wrong with these 3 selections!

Happy Reading!!

Watch The Greater Good Here

2011-10-30T12:45:00.000-05:00

An unforgettable film. Watch it HERE for free!

My Next Project..Boo-Yah!

2011-10-28T18:10:00.001-05:00

I can see it now, Christmas morning, we all stumbled out to the family room gazing at the shining tree with gifts just waiting to be opened. The moment comes, when Don opens his long awaited gift.....crocheted shorts. Aaahhhhhhh... I can imagine the loving admiring gaze these beauts would produce. I'm thinking of making them green and brown instead, what do you think? Oh, and I don't know how to crochet...YET! Butt, with these as my inspiration, there's just no stoppin' me!!

To Do No Harm

2011-10-28T11:29:00.002-05:00

Doctors take an oath "to do no harm." I wonder how many live up to that oath?
I have been having some health concerns, nothing serious, but nonetheless bothersome. Based on one of my symptoms, the doc ordered a series of testing. One of the tests was a ct scan with contrast. I just had a regular ct scan last month in correlation to the same symptom. The procedure was scheduled for next Monday. I began to wonder about the risks of radiation and did a little online research about ct scans.

What I found shocked me. Ct scans with contrast expose a person to 10 years worth of radiation and carry a moderate risk of causing cancer. This information was from the FDA website, so it's doubtful it's embellished in anyway. WHAT???? I knew there was exposure to radiation, of course, but I didn't realize that carried "a moderate risk" of causing cancer. Why didn't the doc tell me about the risk??? I have already had 2 of these with not 1 mention of side effects....um...like cancer!?!?! Even though I always ask a myriad of questions, this 1 small detail was omitted.

Don't get me wrong, there are some AWESOME docs out there.....but they all need to tell their patients about the risks of the testing they do. It seems like it's just "standard procedure" to do a whole line-up of tests without a second thought.

I talked to the nurse and asked if what the test was looking for could be as serious as cancer. She told me that the test could identify cancer. I reminded her that my other testing came back non-malignant. She said although that was indeed a very good sign, there is still a possibility of a mass or something. I told her that the unknown possibility of that verses the VERY REAL risk of cancer is not something I was willing to risk.

Then her tone changed, "Debra, I'm sure doc wouldn't have ordered this testing unless he felt it was necessary." I responded, "You told me yourself that this is part of the standard routine." She said, "Yes, but on down the line, if you came down with something that the test could have shown, that would be unfortunate." I replied, "Yes, or I could come down with cancer from the testing." She laughed, "I guess that's true." I didn't think it was very funny.

The other 2 ct scans I had done were inconclusive. So 2 exposures to a moderate risk of cancer and nothing to show for it.

Do I have a point in telling you about this? Yes, please be very careful and ask a thousand questions and don't forget that the tests themselves sometimes carry a heavy price. Only we can make the appropriate decisions for our health care and I by no means am suggesting that you shouldn't have a ct scan, but make sure it's worth the risk.

Pick-Me-Ups

2011-10-25T12:22:00.001-05:00

A couple of nice things happened this week that were a pick-me-up to Don and I. In an effort to put an end to my pity party, we are counting our blessings instead.
I received this free makeup bag along with several free samples and a coupon booklet from Target.
Isn't it so cute!!

Don told me the other day(while I was stressed about finances) that he thought it would be nice to get some pavers to go around the landscaping in the front yard. I told him that first we needed to build our emergency fund back up. I was looking at the free stuff on Craigslist and saw that someone was renovating the landscaping in their yard and was throwing these away. We are really happy with the way they look, not fancy, but just right for us.

Ironically, we had just enough, with a few to spare, to go around the entire area in the front yard.

God is so very, very good and we are both very thankful for all of His blessings and the trials make the blessings all the sweeter.

Toddler Mayhem

2011-10-23T20:39:00.002-05:00

Slow to Anger

2011-10-23T13:22:00.000-05:00

At Mass this morning, the homily was wonderful...as usual, but something else struck me right to the heart.

It was near the end of Mass and we were singing "Loving and Forgiving". The line that struck me was,
"Loving and forgiving are you Oh Lord, slow to anger, rich in kindness, loving and forgiving are you."

I thought about my actions lately with my kids. I have been quick to anger, rich in temper, complaining and griping way too much! Oh, I have all sorts of excuses, stress, not feeling well, stress, fighting littles, PMS, whiny kids, oh yeah, and stress. I tell my kids all the time, "We can't control what happens to us for the most part, but we can control how we react." Do as I say, not as I do! I really needed that reminder this morning.

I guess I thought as we had more children, I would become more patient and loving. I'm sad to say, I think I've failed to learn those virtues! It's not that the Good Lord hasn't given me ample opportunity!
I want to be that happy family in our Christmas pictures...I really do!

I have a dream...maybe a lofty one...but nonetheless...a dream. I want to become a saint, maybe not a great one, I'd be happy to be the one that has to camp outside of the gates of heaven and live in a tent...as long as I'm in the general vicinity. I also wish my whole family and all my friends...and oh heck, all of humanity to become saints.

Proverbs 23:18 tells us,"Surely there is a future, And your hope will not be cut off."
...And so,with this hope, once again, I will try....

Catholic Art Saturday/Our Lady of Sorrows Chapel in Wichita

2011-10-22T10:50:00.002-05:00

If you have ever visited a sick family member or friend at St. Francis hospital,

perhaps you've visited the chapel to pray, and you have seen the magnificent work of art of the Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows. Click HERE to see a multitude of photos and explanations of the pieces located inside the chapel. The chapel itself is hidden away inside the hospital.

Waiting for Relief

2011-10-20T19:29:00.000-05:00

I have heard there is a light at the end of the tunnel....even if you can't remotely catch a glimpse of it.

While it has been a wonderful blessing to have Don on vacation for the past 2 weeks, it certainly hasn't been a vacation! The plan was to paint the house the first week, and have some family fun the next week. The few damp and rainy days combined with the windy ones, prevented our start and the crazy amount of scraping and caulking have extended that plan into this week...it's Thursday night and we still only have 1 side of the house painted...can you guess which one??? Yep..the front. The other sides are at least almost ready and since we have a sprayer, it will go fast once we can have a non-windy day.

Ok, on to the title of this post. A few weeks ago, the air conditioner broke down and then 2 days ago the fridge completely shut down, an unexpected trip to the ER(for me, Dr. thought I had a kidney stone..but it's not that, so they are doing more testing), we got a bill from the dentist and found out our dental insurance coverage has changed...ugh... and now the dryer is hanging on by a thread. So family fun week didn't really happen. We did take the kids to Chuck E. Cheese using a coupon one day and we have been to the park a few times and we have caught a few episodes of House Hunters on Hulu.....not exactly the Hilton Head Island vacation that we originally planned. But still, it's been nice to be together and I am thankful for all the blessings we do have.

Dave Ramsey says, "Problems give us the ability to hang on and that ability changes who we are. When our character is permanently molded by the trials, we are stronger and the end result is hope."

It just feels like we are taking 1 step forward and 3 or 4 steps back.
We have had to use our emergency fund...which I am so glad that we have. We are just praying for some relief. I do realize we are very blessed and I know our problems are NOTHING compared to what so many people go through, I just needed to relieve some stress...sometimes it helps to write it all down....and I am trying to get to that end result...hope.

A Fresh Facade

2011-10-18T11:49:00.001-05:00

House Before

House After

Before the house was painted white with white trim and navy blue shutters. The house hadn't been painted for quite awhile, the paint was chipping and in some place the siding was showing through.

After, we painted the house Ashen, the trim is painted Stone Grey, and accents including the shutters are a crisp black. All paint is from Porter Paints. We qualified for a free paint program because of our location. We still had to pay for 1/3 of it due to the size of our house, but all the paint was purchased at wholesale...which significantly lowered our portion.

A few of the details that really help crisp-up the overall look of the house include:
Painting the previously painted(white) garage door handles black.

Repainting the mailbox, adding a new porch light fixture...the previous one was too tall for the space and it was nearly impossible to remove the top to replace the light bulb.

I've had this little topiary for years and the base was painted white, I really think it helps pull the look together to repaint it black.

We repainted the columns and porch post and light.

I love the way the original house number goes so well with all the new changes.

Changing Stations

2011-10-16T14:51:00.000-05:00

Having cut out tv several years ago, I thought we were doing better as far as limiting our exposure to inappropriate media.

I noticed however, that when I got into the car and turned on the radio to the "Buzz", the same old inappropriate stuff was floating through the car. I even heard my kids singing to, "Bad Romance" by Lady Gaga. Ok, this is clearly not how things should be!

Many of the songs I "liked" were really inappropriate and horrible to expose my children to...and myself! How could I let this happen?? What was I thinking?? The fact was, I wasn't thinking at all...I was just drifting off and tuning out the kids.

I was taking my kids to lunch in the summer along with a neighbor girl, who asked me what station we were listening to. I told her and she said that sometimes they play songs with bad messages. God bless her!

That really got me to thinking about where we were going....or trying to get to. If anything interferes with our journey home, we need to get rid of it, turn it off, or change the station. We now listen to K-Love...99.1 and there are plenty of other Christian. classical, and wholesome stations to listen to HERE.

We are made in the image of God, what would He listen to?

Shoebox Sam

2011-10-12T14:30:00.001-05:00

I was given this book in exchange for my review.

I didn't expect much more than a fun story to read to my boys, but I was very wrong.

Shoebox Sam leads an ordinary life in a most extraordinary way.

Through his shoe store, he gives to poor, feeds the hungry, gives shelter to the weary, and he makes sacrifices without so much as blinking an eye.

Two children, Jesse and Delia, assist him in his store every Saturday.

They learn how giving is better than receiving and they all really do stop and smell the roses.

This book shows us all how to live and have the heart of Christ everyday.

Loving and giving gives us true happiness.

I was moved to tears while reading, I could hardly speak...yes..it is that moving!

This is a must read!

I loved this book!!

Helmet on Straight

2011-10-11T08:48:00.000-05:00

K-State Sports Extra (My brother, Doug shared this with me...thanks Doug!)

Klein: A Snapshot of the Total Package

Oct. 11, 2011

By Mark Janssen

Bill Snyder recently said of quarterback Collin Klein, "He's an awfully good young person. You'd like for all of your players to walk out the door with what Collin walked in the door with."

Loveland High School is where Kansas State quarterback Collin Klein played his Colorado prep football, but as for his schooling, that took place in the Klein home where his lone instructor was his mother, Kelly.

Yes, Klein, an accounting and finance major, is a product of the Klein home schooling system.

"It's something mom and dad prayed about, and then made the decision," said Klein. "I went to regular preschool, and as mom tells the story, they gave God one more year to make sure about the right thing to do and I attended regular kindergarten. But from that point on I was home schooled."

Through the years, Klein said, "I didn't feel like I missed anything. I had tons of great friendships with kids that went to private or public schools, plus those that were home-schooled. I wouldn't trade my experience for anything in the world."

While learning all about reading, writing and arithmetic, Klein said the greatest result from his home schooling background was developing a bond with his mother, younger brother Kyle, who is a defensive end on the K-State team, plus his dad, Doug.

Asked on the Catbacker tour this summer what kind of girl he wanted to date, Klein responded by saying, "Someone just like my mom, but younger."

He would add, "Kyle and dad are literally my best friends. Home schooling allowed us to build a family relationship, plus we had the ability to study the Bible within our home schooling curriculum and have a music studies part of our education. It really has provided a lot of neat opportunities."

Early-day memories of his father, who is a mortgage broker, include being his "... right-hand man when I know I was a bigger pain than help. He let me help do office file work, which is how I learned about alphabetical order. Dad was always so supportive, but never pushed athletics. He wanted the desire and want to come from me, but he was always there to help me do what I wanted to do."

Throughout his career, including today, Klein wears a No. 7 on his jersey, which goes back to his admiration of his father, who wore No. 7 when he played for Fort Lewis College in Durango.

Once his prep career started at Loveland High, Klein would mosey on over to the school around 2:30 for the start of weights and prepare for practice.

"It wasn't a problem at all, and I always felt accepted because I was around my friends," said Klein. "I came in and worked as hard as I could to earn their trust and respect."

With his 6-5, 226-pound size, Klein was more of a basketball player in high school when he had scholarship offers from Northern Colorado, Portland State and Northern Arizona. In fact, he didn't even start playing football until his ninth-grade year.

"I always wanted to play, and did play in the backyard, but I think the idea was to wait until I was older to prevent injuries and prevent from burning out too early," said Klein, who also excelled in baseball as a pitcher and catcher.

Klein is accomplished with the piano, mandolin and violin. Talents, he says, "God has given me the ability and desire to play sports and play music. I am very grateful to be a good steward of the gifts he has given me. That's more rewarding than any individual successes or achievements. I enjoy everything from classical, to ragtime piano, to fiddle, to country. (Laughing) I didn't listen to country until I moved here and had a roommate that played it all the time."

No, the clean-cut Klein doesn't have a tattoo like so many of his teammates, nor will he ever have one.

Laughing, Klein said, "I would never get one for two reasons. One, it's one of mom's rules, and two, I'm trying to honor God with the body he has given me and I don't want to tarnish his image. I don't hold it against the guys that do have them, but I never would."

While the NFL is certainly a goal, it falls only on Klein's secondary bucket list: "My dream is to honor God in whatever I do. If that is with football through the abilities he has given me, then that would be great. But I don't want to look too far ahead and miss a current opportunity with teammates and family."

Growing up in Loveland, which is just a short drive to Boulder, Colo., Klein was not recruited by the Buffaloes, but he said, "That was OK. I'm not one to hold a grudge toward anyone. I understood at the time that it would all turn out for the best, and it has."

It has at K-State where he was recruited by Ron Prince, and then had coach Snyder enter his life: "The man has such a competitive drive and never settling for anything but the best. He is constantly trying to get better, plus he cares about the people around him whether it's the players or individuals in the community. No one cares about this program the way he does. He's just an amazing person and an amazing coach."

Children's Adoration

2011-10-09T15:49:00.002-05:00

Brother Leopold d'Yve CSJ at Holy Savior

Have you heard of Children's Eucharistic Adoration?

"Children's Eucharistic Adoration is leading the children into the mystery of the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist following the words of wisdom of Blessed Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI."

Quote from Children of Hope 's website.

I have been blessed to help with and lead Children's Adoration for 8 years. It's one of the greatest blessings I have known.

Father Antoine Thomas explains: "Over the years I have heard many reasons why parents hesitate to bring young children before the Eucharist each week to adore Jesus. Among these reasons are that they are too young to sit still, or that they won't understand what is happening. Some feel that it is hard enough to get them to be attentive at Mass, and if they add another hour on Sunday, how can they expect them to behave?

Well, I remind them that Jesus Himself told us, “Let the children come to me and do not hinder them; for to such belong the Kingdom of Heaven.” (Matthew 19:14) And, that our Holy Father, Pope John Paul II, has made this request, “I urge priests, religious and lay people to continue and redouble their efforts to teach the younger generations the meaning and value of Eucharistic adoration and devotion.” (from the Vatican, 28 May, 1996) So, how else can we respond than to bring children to the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus!

After many years of leading Holy Hours for children, I can tell you the benefits are numerous for both children and their families:
1. Children who previously had only the weekly experience of Mass, discover that the Host is actually the person of Jesus, mysteriously hidden.
2. They develop a greater interest in the mysteries of our Faith and the liturgy of the Mass.
3. They understand—more than other children of their age who have not experienced Eucharistic Adoration—the relationship between the gift of the Eucharistic Presence of Jesus and His sacrifice on the Cross out of love for mankind.
4. They become much more aware of the various degrees of sin and seem very eager to receive the sacrament of Confession often.
5. Families accompanying their children witness a growing desire for peace and forgiveness within the family.
When children become friends with Jesus, by spending time with Him, do they not become living signs of faith in Jesus' Real Presence in the Eucharist for those who doubt, and therefore also become wonderful signs of hope for those who despair in finding God on earth?"
How to start Eucharistic Adoration at your parish.
Here are a few steps to help you get started:
-Ask your pastor if he would agree to watch the video on children's adoration.

-Discuss with him who can lead the Holy Hours

-Pray for help to know a good time for the children's Holy Hour in your parish

-Advertise in your bulletin and parish paper

-Put some posters up around your parish

-Address the Mother's Group if you have one, and don't forget the home-schooling families

-See if you can send home an invitation with the school children

When you begin the hours you will want to be prepared. General norms for the worship of the Eucharist are found in Holy Communion and Worship of the Eucharist Outside Mass, published by Catholic Book Publishing Co., © 1976. It is important that those who plan a children's Holy Hour be familiar with the teachings and rubrics of this ritual text. You can use the manual that we have prepared or design your own format.Click Here.

Bishop Conley of Denver says, ""I am very pleased to know that thousands of children have been led into Eucharistic adoration, in Catholic schools and parishes in the past few years, through the help of the Brothers of St. John. I encourage the ministry of "Children of Hope" and I heartily recommend it to my brother bishops in their dioceses, as an apostolate of hope for children and parents, as well as catechists and priests." -Bishop James Conley

If you have any questions, comments, thoughts, or suggestions, I welcome you to leave a comment.

Free Online Metronome!!

2011-10-03T17:03:00.001-05:00

Our digital metronome broke and it wasn't in the budget to replace it. Jonah searched online and found the perfect solution, an online metronome.
This got me to thinkin'....what else am I missing out on?? Is there anything you have found an affordable solution to??

CGS and Tomie Depaola

2011-10-01T19:44:00.001-05:00

Tomie DePaola donated these 25 original signed prints for a Catechesis of the Good Shepherd fundraising campaign.

Two of my favorites!! CGS and Tomie!!

Front Doors Before and After

2011-09-30T07:42:00.004-05:00

BEFORE

AFTER: Painted Stone Gray by Porter Paints.
It's kind of a beige-ish gray color.
I used to really disdain these doors, but painted a different color makes all the difference to me!!

A Must Read for Christmas!

2011-09-29T07:32:00.000-05:00

I received this book in exchange for my review, but having read it to my 3 youngest boys, I would have paid for it.

It's a work of art, Alison Jay's paintings are beautifully timeless, reminiscent of Fra Angelico's masterpieces. See many of her other illustrations/paintings HERE

The words that tell the story of the birth of Jesus are as beautiful as the illustrations that accompany it. The author, Sally Lloyd-Jones, truly has a gift for captivating her audience through poetic script. To her credit she has written a Children's Bible and several other children's books. You can check out her accomplishments on her website: HERE

What is really unique is that the story is told from ALL the creatures' of earth's perspective as they excitedly proclaim, "It's time! It's time!

Charlie(2yrs) loved pointing out all the different animals on each page.

I am so thankful to add this to our Christmas book collection!

"Song of the Stars" will be available October 2011.

Change in Seasons/ Change in Underwear

2011-09-28T11:33:00.000-05:00

My Mom has shared many words of wisdom with me over the years. She told me that the change in seasons sometimes causes even completely potty trained children to have an increase in accidents. That was so comforting to hear!
This morning there have been 3 accidents!!
I started to wonder what I was doing wrong...but then I remembered Mom's advice. Whew!....at least I hope that is the reason;)
Have you noticed this phenomenon as well??

I HATE Breast Cancer!

2011-09-24T11:15:00.001-05:00

I am sharing this from Abby Johnson's blog. I agree with her view completely.
Here is a link to the original article: LINK

Pink ribbons are cute. They have become very trendy. Everyone has caught on to them, too. A couple of airlines wear pink during October…some yogurt companies have pink ribbons on their merchandise…everyone is doing it. Well, not me.

I hate breast cancer. I REALLY hate it. Breast cancer stole one of the most important people in my life from me…my father’s twin sister…my aunt. Both of my grandmothers had breast cancer. My cousin died of breast cancer. Breast cancer is like a terrible virus that keeps sweeping through my family. And like all virus’, you can’t get rid of them; they keep coming back.

My aunt was an amazing person. She never met a stranger. She loved everyone. And, she was pro-life. She LOVED babies. She was one of the most precious people I have ever known. I watched her battle this terrible disease for 9 years. There were ups and downs…but she never gave up. She fought, sometimes with hair, sometimes without. She lost her breasts. She had multiple surgeries. She was always hopeful. Every day was a gift. Her life was a gift.

Now, I know there is lots of debate about the link between abortion and breast cancer. And to be honest, I am not convinced either way. I am not a scientist, but I love research. I know that for every study that shows a link, I can find one or two that shows there is no link. I just can’t simply prove that to be fact.

But here is a fact…Susan G. Komen gave $700,000 in grant money to Planned Parenthood last year. Susan G. Komen is the largest breast cancer research group. Planned Parenthood is the largest abortion provider in our country. Hmmm…why would those two groups be partnering together?

Komen says they give this money to Planned Parenthood so women living in rural areas will have access to mammogram services. Really?? Well, here’s the truth about that.

NO PLANNED PARENTHOOD ON THE PLANET PROVIDES MAMMOGRAM SERVICES.

Why? Because they can’t. Planned Parenthood is a level one breast service provider. What does that mean? It simply means that Planned Parenthood clinics are ONLY allowed to provide manual breast exams. You know, the kind you do in the shower. The kind you can get from any nurse or physician in any clinic. They cannot provide any sort of diagnostic services…no biopsies, no breast ultrasounds, AND no mammograms. That is the truth. That is a FACT.

Komen contributes in a very large way to the murder of over 320,000 babies each year. Those pink ribbons don’t seem so cute anymore. Komen pays big bucks to make the “pink ribbon” theirs. You may think the pink ribbon stands for breast cancer awareness. That’s not what Komen thinks…they believe they own it…and they pay for it.

I hear people say, “Well, until breast cancer has affected your family, don’t tell me not to support Komen.” Well, it has affected my family. It has affected us greatly. And I stand against Komen.

And let me say something else very clearly. My aunt valued life very much. But she did not value her life more than the life of any child. She would have given up her life to know that a baby would be saved. For those that continue to support Komen because this disease has affected you or someone you love…this is what you are saying…you are willing to sacrifice the lives of the unborn for your own. If you are comfortable with that, then keep donating to Komen. I hope you are not. I hope you will do the right thing. I will you will stand against this phony organization. Any good they do is blackened by the killing they support. And if you do stand against them, tell them. Don’t just take away your support, let them know. Send an email to your friend’s list. Post it on your facebook page. Post the letter that you will send so your friends can copy yours and send one as well. Send a letter to your newspaper. Tell everyone you know. Be an activist. Make your voice heard. Don’t think that Komen doesn’t care…they do. They care very much. Komen needs to keep up their good reputation. Don’t let that happen. Expose them for what they are.

Over 320,000 babies EVERY year. Our voice is worth it. No more pink ribbons in my home. My aunt’s memory is worth more than that…I can’t wrap her life up in a ribbon…especially when that ribbon pays for the murder of children.

Hand Sewn Window Seat Cushions

2011-09-22T16:08:00.002-05:00

As I type this with prickified fingers and a sigh of relief, I have finished the window seat cushions!!! Wahoo!!! I love how they turned out...weird corner angles and all! The cushions aren't super fluffy and cushy, I wanted the kids to be able to be comfy but still have a somewhat even surface to be able to play board games and the like.

I priced out having custom cushions made, it would have cost me close to $400. I made these for about $60.

I waited until the fabric went on sale for 50% off at Hancock's and purchased the foam at The Yard downtown...cheapest place to buy foam and a whole lot more!

Ya know, I hand sewed these because my sewing machine is broken, I didn't expect to enjoy it, but I love hand sewing!! It was so relaxing and I found out how to multi-task: I can sew while doing spelling with Hannah, reading with Eli, checking Noah's essays, yelling at Benny, nursing Charlie, eating lunch, talking on the phone, and even breathing!

It turns out that every stitch can be offered for a soul.

I wish I was this excited about doing the laundry and dishes;)

I'm Guest Posting!!!!

2011-09-21T08:31:00.000-05:00

Natalie over at A Turtles Life For Me is posting my kitchen renovation.

This is my first time guest posting...so thank you, Natalie!!

Check it out and take a look at how she decorated her fridge!! She's brilliant!

WINNER WINNER!!

2011-09-20T14:02:00.001-05:00

Congratualtions to Corrine, you are the winner of a Making Memories Software package!! Corinne, could you email me at drohr1@ cox(dot)net. and I can send you the code you will need so you can download your software. Thanks also to Elizabeth and Erika for entering!! I put your names into a bowl and had Charlie pull one out.

Paint Chip Memory

2011-09-19T08:24:00.000-05:00

As we have been accumulating paint chips from our major house overhaul, I stumbled upon an ingenious idea to put them to good use: Muffin Tin Mom posted her simple paint chip memory game.

I have been looking for ways to ~~play with~~ use my laminator...I think I may have to

make these...for the kids of course;)

A My Memories Suite Giveaway!!!!

2011-09-15T21:53:00.004-05:00

This is my first GIVEAWAY!!! I am so excited to be able to share this with you!!!

I was so happy to find the My Memories site, because I love to make my scrapbooks online and with My Memories, I can do that and a whole lot more!! My Memories Suite is rated #1 by Amazon and TopTen Reviews.

Using this software, anyone can create digital scrapbooks, photobooks, cards, calendars and gifts without having to buy expensive and complicated software programs.

I made this album page...I especially loved adding the embellishments!!

It's user friendly and once you create an album page, you can print it out and make cards, calendars, gifts, or even pics to frame...the options are endless.

I can make gifts, print out my scrapbooks and laminate them myself, or I can order hardbound books of my scrapbook...which is probably what I will do. I absolutely love all the variety and designs there are to choose from!

Ok, so what will you win?? This:

My Memories Suite

My Memories Suite Version 2.0 digital scrapbooking software is a fun and creative way to keep and share memories, whether you have a Mac or PC. The software's design tools will help you to build entire albums effortlessly using one of the many installed templates, or designing your very own pages from scratch.

Available worldwide. Intended for English-language computers. Technical support is English-only. $39.97

A special discount for all other readers!! You receive a Share the Memories code that provides a $10 discount off the purchase of the My Memories Suite Scrapbook software and a $10 coupon for the MyMemories.com store - $20 value! Just go to My Memories To redeem using code: STMMMS17962

To enter the giveaway, go to My Memories (CLICK HERE)
Then come back here, post a comment telling me which digital paper pack is your favorite.
I will leave this open until Noon on September 20th. I will then draw a random
entrant and post the winner.

Good Luck!!!

$887 Kitchen Remodel

2011-09-11T05:31:00.007-05:00

Before

After

Breakdown on cost:

New flooring: $107.00(laminate from Sutherland's)
Refacing the cabinets: $80(using Recyclebank coupons at Star Lumber)
Cabinet hardware: $45(purchased for $1 each at Jabara's Damaged Freight)
Paint for the walls,trim, and cabinets: $65(Home Depot and Lowe's)
Counter tops: $120(Menards)
Back splash:$110(Menards)
Light fixture over sink: $7(Star Lumber clearance)
Overhead light fixture: $40(Menards)
Trim for doorways, window, and under cabinets: $23(Jabara's Damaged Freight)
Bullseye corner blocks: $12 (Home Depot)
Sink and faucet: $150(Craigslist and Sutherland's)
2 new base cabinets: $128(Sutherland's)

Total - $887 including all taxes

We are still working on our stove/fridge wall, we need to finish tiling and trimming out the remaining cabinets on that wall. That is our shortest wall with 2 small 15 inch base cabinets flanking the stove and the fridge. We also haven't replaced our overhead light fixture yet, I won't spend over $40 including tax, we just need to wait until I can squeeze those into our budget. The budget above includes the cost of these remaining items...I just couldn't wait to show you!!

Featured on A Turtle's Life For Me
Linked on: The Creative Paige

Stove & Fridge wall

Learning Days of the Week/Months of the Year

2011-09-08T12:37:00.001-05:00

I wanted an easy way for my little ones to learn both the days of the week and the months of the year.
I made up a song sung to the tune from Happy Days...remember that??
It goes...
"Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
what a day,
thru the whole week with you,
these days are ours
Happy and Free!"

The months are a little more tricky, but I wanted Eli especially to be able spell, recognize, and know what order to put them in. I found a cool pdf HERE that has a ton of ideas, songs, and activities to learn both of these.

On pages 21 and 22 they have colored months to print out which I printed out along with a cute pic that highlighted a memorable part of that month and laminated to make a simple puzzle for Eli. You could really make it super personal with photos of family members birthdays and even make it a liturgical type calendar.

I kind of blended it from Seasons, religious holidays and secular holidays. My thought was for Eli to associate each month with something he identifies with.
Here's what we came up with:

A Very Good Homily on Modesty

2011-09-06T22:53:00.002-05:00

I thought this was a VERY good homily about modesty...every Catholic should not only watch it, but live it....and it would be nice if the rest of the world would join in too.
Father makes a great point when he talks about our expectations of how we expect our priests to dress for Mass, he said that he also has similar expectations of us, it is "sick" he said for women to approach our Lord to receive Him dressed like a prostitute. Yes, he also addresses men.

Family Stewardship

2011-09-06T10:51:00.000-05:00

We are always looking for ways to involve the whole family in the stewardship way of life.

The other day, we were blessed to be able to stuff our parish bulletins.

Benny really got into it, he was such a perfectionist, putting the insert in very straight....and he exclaimed, "This is FUN!"

I hope we get the chance again!!

Charlie the Chef

2011-09-03T21:02:00.002-05:00

Here is Charlie's Recipe for Pizza Brulee

Step 1: Take a leftover pizza slice out of refrigerator.

Step 2: Place in microwave for 5 minutes on high.

Step 3: Open windows and evacuate the house until able to breathe normally.

Step 4: Hose off Pizza Brulee and ENJOY!!

Catholic Art Saturday/All Dogs Go to Heaven!

2011-09-03T09:14:00.000-05:00

Tile's Begun!

2011-09-03T01:15:00.002-05:00

Just a small preview, there is no grout, so ignore those gaps, and we have to adjust the outlet, but we are both so glad we chose the single colored 6X6's. We have a busy weekend planned!! YAY/SIGH!

Here's that same wall before we moved in.(That's our realtor, Laura.)

Backsplash Options

2011-09-02T15:52:00.001-05:00

Here is the super affordable field tile we brought home.We are trying to decide which pattern to use??

(6x6 tiles from Menards at .47 cents each and only $1.99 for the 36 2x2 sheets)

My good friend had 8 of these autumn bronze center accent tiles leftover from a project and generously offered them to us. I think it will be the perfect accent!

Here is the first option.

The accent tiles actually look like this, very dark, I turned the flash off so you could have a better idea.

Here is the second option,

I really like the variation of color,

but I think it may be too busy with the granite colored counters.

What do you think?

We will be completing our project over the weekend.

Jamocha granite laminate counters

Petless

2011-09-02T01:57:00.001-05:00

Callie

Nellie

For the first time in our marriage, we are without a pet. It's not by choice....

Our dog, Cherry, died last year.

And more recently, both of our cats, Callie and Nellie, have disappeared without a trace.

Don and I are sad. The kids are sad. We've had them for about 5 years. We adopted them from the humane society. They are outside/garage cats because of our allergies, but we keep them comfy and well fed.

The silly kitties wouldn't leave their collars on, but they each have a microchip that identifies us as the owners.

One of their favorite hangouts was on the bench(Callie in the above pic) on the front porch.

Every time I glance outside, I sigh, no sweet kitties sunning themselves or snuggling together.

We have looked for them, we've asked neighbors, we've hung posters, I listed them on craigslist's lost and found... and of course, we've prayed..often for them to come home.

Maybe some loving person has taken them in thinking they have no home???

The kids are sure they are coming back at any given moment.

It's been over a week now since they've been missing, my hope is about worn out.

Dearest St. Anthony, help us please find our cats.

New Countertops Peek

2011-09-01T09:46:00.000-05:00

BEFORE

AFTER

I have been pretty bummed about our counters ever since the painted "granite" look hasn't held up. Everyday, I find new peelings popping up all over the place. I found the "perfect" countertops at Lowe's, but the price was a little high for our budget. It would cost over $400 for the whole kitchen.

I was browsing our Menards ad, and saw an in-stock laminate countertop featured called, "Jamocha Granite". I LOVED the color and the brown tones go perfectly with our brown and cream kitchen.

The total before tax was $112.00 FOR THE WHOLE KITCHEN!!!!!! WAHOO!!

We bought 12ft, 8ft, and 4ft sections.

Here's a close-up. Don't you love it too???

Now, one of the reasons I loved the Lowe's counters were for the ogee edge it came with. But I think it's worth that sacrifice to save $$$.

Now we just have to figure out the backsplash?????? Any suggestions??

Here's a few backsplash ideas:

I like the layout...maybe contrasting tiles??

I love the simplicity of subway, but warmed up.

I like the earthy tuscan feel of this field stone.

We have to be realistic...I mean we are on a budget and I can't save all that $$, only to throw it at the backsplash.

Ear Splitting Entertainment

2011-08-31T12:11:00.000-05:00

We have been told that our house is surprisingly quiet(for having 6 kids that is)

...but not today!

Here's Rylee(my niece) getting in on the action.

Words cannot express how LOUD it was and how my ears are still ringing...but they had a BLAST!

Fresher Family Room

2011-08-28T12:16:00.000-05:00

Before: Family Room

After: Family Room(excuse the cluttered shelves..that's where we keep the children's books)

South wall(Door goes into the sunroom)

West wall

East wall
We have been working on the family room ever since we moved in...a little at a time.
First, we replaced the carpet.
Painted the walls "Butter Cookie."
Added new light fixtures.
Repainted the bricks on the fireplace.
Added moulding to the mantel and painted it.
Added moulding to the bookshelves and painted.
Finished the beadboard look complete with new trim above and below.
We finally finished it last night.

Gathered this morning before Mass.

Pottery Barn Kids Chairs Redo

2011-08-26T23:15:00.009-05:00

After: Brown Chairs

Before: Blue and Red Chairs

We bought this set from Pottery Barn Kids the year we decided to homeschool...10 years ago. It was the perfect addition to our perfect school room that we never used. We recently moved it into the dining room. It's been a great snack, meal, and preschool table for the little ones.

I love having it in the dining room, but I wanted it to
match the big table and chair set...at least somewhat.
I'm happy with the simple spray paint solution.
This project was inspired by Fresh Cut Flours.
Check it out!

< Little Table

Big Table>

In Loving Memory

2011-08-25T09:40:00.001-05:00

Sofia Cavalletti, one of the foundresses of Catechises of the Good Shepherd passed away on Tuesday, August 23rd, she was 94 years old. What a wonderful legacy Sofia has left behind through the catechises.
One of her admirers said this of Sofia, "Sofia Cavaletti never wanted any of us, children or adults, to hear her voice, but only the voice of the Shepherd. She made me know the truth, that there is but One Teacher and I want to continue to sit at His feet with children and young & old adults and ask of Text and of hearer, "What could this mean?" Thank you God for our mentor and friend. Pray for us, Sofia".

Exciting News!

2011-08-23T00:30:00.001-05:00

Most of the time, I try to focus this blog on my "home" life and I don't mention too many things I am involved in outside of these four walls, but since this impacts the occupants, I want to share!

I am in training to become a Catechist for the Good Shepherd program and I am getting ready to start Part II of Level I. Our mentors at training encouraged us to begin using our training as soon as we could.

Last month, another student, who is also a homeschool Mom, and I presented the "idea" of the program to our homeschool group.

During the presentation, we discovered 2 more trained catechists who were very excited to help.

Then, someone mentioned that the very parish we were having our meeting at, had a room with what they believed were Good Shepherd materials in it...and that we should check it out before we left.

We have around 40 kids on the "waiting list" to participate. The parents were all very excited and eager to help with the program.

In all my activities/ministries/volunteer work...etc... I have NEVER seen such enthusiasm!

We have checked the room out...it's perfect, they have almost everything we will need ,which is extensive, which makes it all the more amazing.

It's CRAZY how everything is falling into place...it's almost too perfect...but we all feel that this is the stirring of the Holy Spirit. This program is truth and light. I am blessed to be a part of it. I encourage anyone reading this post to discover this treasure HERE

"Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love.
Send forth your Spirit, and they shall be created.
And You shall renew the face of the earth."

Cutting Fun!

2011-08-22T14:38:00.000-05:00

We started school last week and also began taking care of my niece. Sufficed to say, it's been busy around here! The busy bags have been a godsend, but I'm rationing them out a little at a time and we are in need of a few more activities. Today we cut up computer paper into thin strips, armed the littles with safety scissors and they set to work. Oh, and you'll notice I didn't take an "after" photo of the floor and surrounding area. Sometimes, it's the simplest of things that keep them occupied....for twenty minutes!!

Almost everyone joined in the cutting fun.

An Apology

2011-08-20T22:26:00.002-05:00

My post about the Busy Bags was ranty and I am sorry, I learned that I offended someone. I really didn't mean to! I was trying to give an honest review. The Busy Bags swaps are awesome, and I still feel that arranging it locally is a great way to save on shipping. I also understand that some people may live in an area where that is not an option, and I do not mean to discourage anyone from participating in a swap. I admit to having what my Mom refers to as "Goldilocks Syndrome"and I need to make sure that I don't overly criticize. Taking part in any kind of swap is always going to be a surprise and not everyone has the same standards or expectations and I should have been more tactful in my review.

And so, I am sincerely sorry and I ask forgiveness from anyone I may have offended in my post.

Busy Bags 2!

2011-08-20T00:33:00.002-05:00

Here is the second half of the busy bags.

^ Picture/Alphabet Match-up

Shape Hunt and Sort

Popsicle stick puzzle

I have who has card game

Memory Game 1

Measure It

Memory Game 2

Bug Counting Card Activity

Sew Much Fun

The Alphabet Game.

Alphabet Match-Up

Pom-Pom Patterns(Benny LOVED this today!!)

Pony Beads & Pipe Cleaners

Sneak Peek: For my in town swap..Snowflake Builder.

Isn't it lovely??? My new Scotch Thermal Laminator!

Thanks again, Michelle!

Busy Bags!

2011-08-18T14:54:00.005-05:00

Guess what came in the mail today???

There were 29 activities inside, one is missing.

I was very excited and somewhat pleasantly surprised. I think it would be nice to laminate some of the cardstock activities because laminating makes things so much more durable.

I love this pizza felt game!

This is such a cute concept...but I felt it needed a few more pieces.

This is a winner...my boys will love it. It's a a matchup counting game.

This is a fabulous activity! On one side of the clothespins is a number and on the reverse the written form.

I'm guessing this is a color sorting game?? No instructions were included.

How cute is this???? This is a perfect bead spooning activity.

I really like the idea of this popsicle color match-up...

The boys will have fun fishing!

Play-doh and a mat...to form letters..or numbers.

Roll-a-cise...all my kids will love this one!

Aren't these simple puzzles adorable???

Double Shape Match game...the cards are even laminated!!

I love the pics on this rhyming game.

Yay!! It's laminated!!

So here are the first 15 and these are my favorites. There were some duplications which I didn't anticipate.

It cost $60 to participate...$30 for supplies to make the bags and $15 shipping each way.

Overall, I think it's probably better to try and arrange this locally to save the cost of shipping.

A group of lovely ladies is having a busy bag swap here in town and I am participating.

That will be great even with some duplications since I have 2 to preschool this year that will be a little less squabbling.

I love this swapping stuff!! It's great fun to be surprised.

Homeschool Storage Solution

2011-08-17T07:25:00.002-05:00

One thing that has always perplexed me is how to store our homeschool materials.

We've tried cabinets and bookshelves, but neither of those options has maintained order consistently throughout the year.

So in true procrastination style, I headed out the night before, at 10PM bound and determined to find something before school started the next day.

I went to Dillons Marketplace and found these 19 quart Rubbermaid Roughneck Totes.

They were on sale for $8.99. Considering all our books and manipulatives were free, that was a small investment.

We will only keep 1 semester of books in each tote....no need to ruffle up next semester's books.

I printed out labels for the totes to keep things organized for each child.

I put a label on all four sides and one on the top. They had fun choosing the fonts and colors.

I hope this is the solution I have been hoping for!

Time will tell!

Sometimes...

2011-08-16T00:29:00.001-05:00

Sometimes I wish.......
But then I realize.......

My husband would be more romantic.
Working alongside my husband to fix up this place is way better than rose petals on the bed.

I could keep up with the housework.
I am blessed to have a home to clean!

We could have more children without "significant risk".
We already have six healthy gifts from God.

The kids would just stop fighting!!!!!! It's been a long hot summer!
Have kids = Will fight

That almost every house project didn't have to be a discovery of error and mistakes.
We are learning so much and growing in experience.

A "can of worms" was really just a can of worms.
Life is always an adventure...sometimes a messy one.

Someone would have told me that not only does motherhood allow for profound love, but profound anger...my teeth are about worn down to the nubbins from all the grittin'.
Profound emotions can lead to self-discovery, and hopefully self-control...or so I hear;)

Weight loss wasn't so painfully slow...ounce by ounce.
The reward is greater when the progress is slow.

Chocolate and cookies were the "good foods".
God's food is more colorful....and of course more healthy.

I could trust that all jobs would be secure.
Life is always an adventure...mostly an unknown one.

People didn't have to suffer so much. My heart aches for those who go through illness, tragedy, or those who are victimized....especially children.
God does have a plan and we don't have to understand it.

The brokenness of my childhood family could be restored.
Sometimes, it's our brokenness that brings us closer to Jesus.

Everyone could "understand" me.
It's not about me. It's not about me. It's not about me.

Hannah's "Pop" Birthday

2011-08-15T10:49:00.000-05:00

Popsicle invitations printed free from the Martha Stewart website.

Goody Bags!!!

Rice Krispy Pops

Popcorn and crafts

The girls colored card stock dolls and made bead bracelets.

Gifts

Soda Pop floats

Stick the cherry on the sundae game that Hannah made herself and she chose all the activites.

I thank God for 10 years of Hannah.

Mantel Makeover

2011-08-14T00:00:00.004-05:00

Before: Note the driftwood-esque mantel and mismatched stained and abused brick.

After: We painted the brick in Ashen and Stone Grey, added trim moulding to the mantel and bookshelves and painted them white.

Simple Art: cut up toilet paper tubes into slices(they automatically compress into petal shapes when cut), paint, and glue onto a foam board. Cost - $3.50 including paint.
See the tutorial on MoneySavingMom.

We wanted a traditional yet fresh feel for this room that acts primarily as a piano practice room and homeschool book depository. I wanted to keep the mantel simple and uncluttered. Once the bookshelves dry completely, the clutter will inevitably return.

The total makeover cost was less than $30. We bought the trim at Jabara's Damaged Freight , a couple pieces from Sutherland's, and used a few leftover pieces from previous projects.

The paint is our exterior house paint that we received a partial grant from the city for.

We used hardly any of it, we didn't paint the grout, just the brick.

The white paint for the mantel and bookshelves we already had from when we moved.

I painted the clock and bought the little bowl and ball set(did you notice they have the same pattern as the "art"?) from Target for >$4.

Catholic Art Saturday/ The Unborn Child

2011-08-13T03:27:00.000-05:00

Artist: God (Is,Was, Always Will Be)

Sara's Floral Fix

2011-08-12T09:18:00.000-05:00

This is Sara. Fabulous Sara. She fixed my St. Dominic Virtue Bouquet. Remember this post? I was never happy with how I arranged it....floral arranging is definitely not a talent of mine.

I saw the beautiful arrangements and tablescapes she had done for my friend, Becky, and I hoped she could help me. And she did!

St. Dominic Savio appeared to
St. John Bosco holding this bouquet.
Each piece is significant of the virtues needed to attain Heaven.
Rose - Love
Violet - Humility
Sunflower - Obedience
Gentian - Penance and Self Discipline
Wheat - Frequent Communion
Lily - Purity
Evergreen - Constancy and Perseverance

Boy oh boy..do I need this reminder!!
Thank you Sara!!!

$1= Hours of Fun!!

2011-08-11T00:33:00.001-05:00

Charlie discovered one of our bike locks in the back of the bike trailer while Don and I were working on our top secret home remodeling project yesterday. He followed us around the house as we worked and played with this thing for hours(not exaggerating..honest!!!!)

This was $1 at Dollartree....be careful though, the keys are very small... it could be a choking hazard for little ones!! I had read that keys and locks are an excellent activity for toddlers...but had completely forgotten about that until Charlie's discovery.

Dining Room Window Treatment

2011-08-10T00:01:00.013-05:00

To unify both the dining and living rooms, yet define each space, I used a coordinating stripe. Also, I incorporated an accordion pleat and an applique using the living room valance fabric to further bring cohesiveness between the rooms.

LIGHTS OFF!

Living Room

Most of the room. LIGHTS ON!

I still need to iron and add the lining...I'm just finally happy to have something in the dining room!!

Organized Art Supplies

2011-08-09T08:40:00.003-05:00

I dashed over to Target to grab some school supply bargains and I hit the dollar spot and found this little gem.

Actually..it's $2.50...but well worth it.

It easily holds three boxes of 24 ct crayons, a few more boxes would fit, 3 boxes of markers, 2 boxes of colored pencils, 4 glue sticks, 10 mechanical pencils, scissors, glue, and a pencil sharpener.

As you can see there is plenty of room for more!

On the base is a turning thing-a-ma-jig so you can rotate it.

This is SO much better than our current used baby wipe container method! They had all the primary colors available also.

Empty packages

Dollar Spot tag