My hope is to return to the blogosphere. I look forward to writing with you once again! God bless the rest of your Christmas Day!
Friday, December 25, 2009
Merry Christmas
Hello Modern Catholic Moms~ I hope by now you are winding down from a beautiful Christmas day. Although I am thoroughly exhausted I am happy. We had a great day filled with family and love.
My hope is to return to the blogosphere. I look forward to writing with you once again! God bless the rest of your Christmas Day!
My hope is to return to the blogosphere. I look forward to writing with you once again! God bless the rest of your Christmas Day!
Monday, November 30, 2009
Come and See Kids Catholic Bible Giveaway
Check out a chance to win "Come and See" KIDS Catholic Bible studies for children. Each chapter contains a Bible story, a memory verse, a perforated page to tear out and color, and a simple craft. The kids will look forward to starting each new chapter.
Frugal Catholic Mommy is hosting the 12 days of Christmas giveaway! Find it here!
Frugal Catholic Mommy is hosting the 12 days of Christmas giveaway! Find it here!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Let the Oppressed Go Free- Book Review
Let the Oppressed Go Free: Breaking the Bonds of Addiction
By Cardinal Justin Rigali
I am a proud book reviewer of the Catholic Company. (The Catholic Product Reviewer Program). The latest book I have had the opportunity to review is ‘Let the Oppressed Go Free: Breaking the Bonds of Addiction.’
Cardinal Rigali has created a book that is informational, easy to read and a perfect guide to learning more about the bonds of addiction. Throughout the book addiction is explained by references to the Catechism, Scripture, Redemptor Hominis (The Redeemer of Man), the works of St. Theresa of Avila and so much more.
The book is broken up into seven parts. These include:
By Cardinal Justin Rigali
I am a proud book reviewer of the Catholic Company. (The Catholic Product Reviewer Program). The latest book I have had the opportunity to review is ‘Let the Oppressed Go Free: Breaking the Bonds of Addiction.’
Cardinal Rigali has created a book that is informational, easy to read and a perfect guide to learning more about the bonds of addiction. Throughout the book addiction is explained by references to the Catechism, Scripture, Redemptor Hominis (The Redeemer of Man), the works of St. Theresa of Avila and so much more.
The book is broken up into seven parts. These include:
· The nature of addiction
· The importance of a robust Christian anthropology
· Initial appraisal of problems posed by the Internet
· The Sacraments: The importance of grace and virtue
· The importance of prayer
· The twelve steps
From there each part is broken up into specific questions that are relevant to both the chapter and basic understanding of addiction. The book does not have to be read straight through but can be referenced as needed.
Unfortunately in this day and age, every family is touched one way or another with addiction. Someone we know, friend or family member has exhibited addictive traits if not a full blown addiction. This is the book to go to when asking questions about how addiction and how the Catholic Church feels about the like. There is no mincing of words or a fairytale remedy for breaking addiction.
For someone who has studied a fair amount about addiction (I worked in drug and alcohol rehabilitation for a few years) I was grateful for the Catholic influence regarding this matter. I appreciate that Cardinal Rigali recognizes the spiritual component to addiction and healing and provides the reader with the knowledge to make changes in their life.
This is a book for family member and friends of those with addictions. This is a book for those who are suffering from addiction. This is a book for those who want to learn more about how Catholicism can help addiction.
‘Let the Oppressed Go Free: Breaking the Bonds of Addiction’ is a great informational book, orthodox to the core and a means of hope for the oppressed. I definitely recommend this book. Check it out here.
‘Let the Oppressed Go Free: Breaking the Bonds of Addiction’ is a great informational book, orthodox to the core and a means of hope for the oppressed. I definitely recommend this book. Check it out here.
The Catholic Company can be found here.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Preparing for Christmas
Could it be that the first Sunday of Advent is almost here? I know you are thinking, Wait! We havent even finished with Thanksgiving! I have decided this year to truly keep the spirit of Christ at the forefront of our Christmas season. I am amazed by how easily I become distracted by the bright lights, the store advertisements and the gift giving. But not this year. This year I have a plan.
1. Every time my little one mentions 'presents' I follow it up with an excited voice exclaiming 'How wonderful that we get to celebrate Jesus' birthday with presents'! She in turn gets very excited about a birthday party for Jesus.
2. A birthday party for Jesus. We will make a cake and make sure to sing to the Lord of Lords!
3. Christmas shopping- completed before December 1st. I am so happy not to be distracted with 'buying' this December.
4. Advent Wreath- I will post more about this later. But I am excited to have a little one who will be able to understand (sorta) what is going on! (She is three almost four. We'll work with what we can).
What do you do to keep Christ the reason for the season?
1. Every time my little one mentions 'presents' I follow it up with an excited voice exclaiming 'How wonderful that we get to celebrate Jesus' birthday with presents'! She in turn gets very excited about a birthday party for Jesus.
2. A birthday party for Jesus. We will make a cake and make sure to sing to the Lord of Lords!
3. Christmas shopping- completed before December 1st. I am so happy not to be distracted with 'buying' this December.
4. Advent Wreath- I will post more about this later. But I am excited to have a little one who will be able to understand (sorta) what is going on! (She is three almost four. We'll work with what we can).
What do you do to keep Christ the reason for the season?
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
The Beatitudes for Children
Check out my Tiber River Review of
"The Beatitudes for Children".
Awesome book that you can find here.
"The Beatitudes for Children" is a book that will speak to the heart of your child about the very words Jesus Christ has given us to live by.
Product Link:
Navigating the Sea of Catholic Media
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
The first time I received the Eucharist
"The first time I received the Eucharist I was in my mother's womb".
How beautiful to know that as an unborn child we are receiving our Lord, Jesus Christ. The very thought that God created us so that our babies in utero would have the privilege to receive Holy Communion is truly a testament to the beauty of the unborn child. We continue to pray for all unborn children and the end to abortion.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Freedom of Speech?
An interesting article. This man, a recent graduate from Franciscan University of Steubenville, was fired for telling his gay co-worker that gay marriage is wrong.
Read it here:
Fox News
Whether or not your faith leads you to be for or against gay marriage a question that needs to be asked is whether or not freedom of speech has been taken away from this man. If the situation was as he stated then could the women be fired for harassing a practicing Catholic about gay marriage? Will businesses begin censoring all converstation so that no one may talk about any ethical issues? Where is the line? How do you get fired for non support of a co workers same sex marriage? When did we lose our freedom of speech?
Read it here:
Fox News
Whether or not your faith leads you to be for or against gay marriage a question that needs to be asked is whether or not freedom of speech has been taken away from this man. If the situation was as he stated then could the women be fired for harassing a practicing Catholic about gay marriage? Will businesses begin censoring all converstation so that no one may talk about any ethical issues? Where is the line? How do you get fired for non support of a co workers same sex marriage? When did we lose our freedom of speech?
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Great Pro-Life Victory
Here is the letter I received from the Susan B Anthony organization. THIS IS GREAT NEWS!!!
Dear Tara,
All of your letters and calls paid off!
Tonight the U.S. House of Representatives approved the Stupak-Pitts Amendment to H.R. 3962, by a vote of 240 to 194, with 64 Democratic members voting in favor of the amendment to ban federal funding of abortion in the health care bill.
This is a great victory for the pro-life movement and for all SBA List members who so diligently contacted their Representatives leading up to the vote.
With the adoption of the Stupak-Pitts Amendment, the House of Representatives made a principled and sound decision to continue our nation’s longstanding policy of protecting taxpayers’ conscience in the area of abortion funding.
In the coming weeks, we will remain vigilant and shift our efforts to the Senate to ensure that these same pro-life protections are included in the Senate bill. We fully expect that pro-abortion leaders will still try to find ways to sneak abortion funding into health care.
For now though, let's celebrate this great victory for unborn children and women. Thank you for all of your efforts in defense of Life. Together we can save countless unborn lives.
God bless,
Marjorie Dannenfelser
President, Susan B. Anthony List
Dear Tara,
All of your letters and calls paid off!
Tonight the U.S. House of Representatives approved the Stupak-Pitts Amendment to H.R. 3962, by a vote of 240 to 194, with 64 Democratic members voting in favor of the amendment to ban federal funding of abortion in the health care bill.
This is a great victory for the pro-life movement and for all SBA List members who so diligently contacted their Representatives leading up to the vote.
With the adoption of the Stupak-Pitts Amendment, the House of Representatives made a principled and sound decision to continue our nation’s longstanding policy of protecting taxpayers’ conscience in the area of abortion funding.
In the coming weeks, we will remain vigilant and shift our efforts to the Senate to ensure that these same pro-life protections are included in the Senate bill. We fully expect that pro-abortion leaders will still try to find ways to sneak abortion funding into health care.
For now though, let's celebrate this great victory for unborn children and women. Thank you for all of your efforts in defense of Life. Together we can save countless unborn lives.
God bless,
Marjorie Dannenfelser
President, Susan B. Anthony List
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Happy All Saints Day!
Liv wanted to be Immaculate Mary for All Saints Day. She was so cute. She told me that she needed to have a rosary in order to make the constume complete. Father had her lead a Hail Mary and she did great!
Friday, October 30, 2009
Ten Commandments of a Wife and Mother
The Ten Commandments of a Wife and Mother:
“When one finds a worthy wife, her value is far beyond pearls.
Her husband, entrusting his heart to her, has an unfailing prize.
She brings him good and not evil, all the days of her life.”
- Proverbs 31:10-12
Her husband, entrusting his heart to her, has an unfailing prize.
She brings him good and not evil, all the days of her life.”
- Proverbs 31:10-12
Check it out here.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
I luv Seinfelds Bride
First let me give credit where credit is due. Seinfelds wife has does wonders in my life. I now am almost a pro at putting various healthy veggies in almost anything I can. Don't get me wrong, we still eat regular veggies during dinner, sometimes as a snack... But now... now I am in control of veggie consumption and NO whining! I have purchased 'Deceptively Delicious' and have been using it for awhile. But this my friends, takes the veggie cake.
Spinach and eggs. 'Halloween Eggs'. Frankenstein eggs. And it worked. Oh how it worked!
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Halloween? A msg from Fr. Corapi
This was sent by a friend of my to read. We trick-or-treat but always attend an All Saints Day Party to celebrate the true holiday. What do you do to bring to light the the beauty of All Saints Day?
The Battle Between Good and Evil: an Update from Fr. Corapi
As Halloween approaches, we are surrounded by themes of the occult, ghosts, demons, curses, and hauntings. Demonic and occult themes permeate the media at this time of year. Most of this material is pure fiction, yet the part that is not fiction is an acknowledgment that angels and demons exist. One cannot understand reality if one brackets out a large portion of reality -the pretenders order (angels and demons). If you try to arrive at valid conclusions concerning reality, but have left out a good part of that reality you are engaged in an exercise in futility. So many things today can only be understood in the light of this spiritual reality. Have you ever wondered why so many apparently educated and intelligent people just don't get it, especially with respect to such life and death matters as abortion?There is a battle that goes on in the spiritual order between the forces of God and the forces of Satan, "the adversary." This battle between cosmic good and evil, between angels and demons, has man caught in the cross hairs. Man is an active player in his own salvation. We need the help of our allies the angels. To fail to enlist their help is reckless. To fail to realize the reality of the enemy forces, the demonic legions, can be ultimately and eternally fatal. We are at war and our battle is not against flesh and blood, as St. Paul warns us in Ephesians 6. The battle between good and evil, truth and lies, life and death involves these angelic legions - good and evil. We are soldiers in God's army, like it or not, believe it or not.We must be aware of these fundamental teachings, learn them, and live in accordance with them.
The Battle Between Good and Evil: an Update from Fr. Corapi
As Halloween approaches, we are surrounded by themes of the occult, ghosts, demons, curses, and hauntings. Demonic and occult themes permeate the media at this time of year. Most of this material is pure fiction, yet the part that is not fiction is an acknowledgment that angels and demons exist. One cannot understand reality if one brackets out a large portion of reality -the pretenders order (angels and demons). If you try to arrive at valid conclusions concerning reality, but have left out a good part of that reality you are engaged in an exercise in futility. So many things today can only be understood in the light of this spiritual reality. Have you ever wondered why so many apparently educated and intelligent people just don't get it, especially with respect to such life and death matters as abortion?There is a battle that goes on in the spiritual order between the forces of God and the forces of Satan, "the adversary." This battle between cosmic good and evil, between angels and demons, has man caught in the cross hairs. Man is an active player in his own salvation. We need the help of our allies the angels. To fail to enlist their help is reckless. To fail to realize the reality of the enemy forces, the demonic legions, can be ultimately and eternally fatal. We are at war and our battle is not against flesh and blood, as St. Paul warns us in Ephesians 6. The battle between good and evil, truth and lies, life and death involves these angelic legions - good and evil. We are soldiers in God's army, like it or not, believe it or not.We must be aware of these fundamental teachings, learn them, and live in accordance with them.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
I should- No, I could!
Tuesday Tid-bit:
I have eliminated the word 'should' from my vocabulary. I had this ridiculously long list of 'shoulds'. For example:
I should go workout.
I should do more laundry.
I should be more patient.
I should be more loving.
I should pray more.
This is only a minute portion of the 'should list' but watch what happens when I take the 'shoulds' and make them 'coulds':
I could go workout.
I could do more laundry.
I could be more patient.
I could be more loving.
I could pray more.
It feels like I have taken off 99% of the pressure by changing one little word. 'Coulds' allow me to rely on the Lord for the grace to be more loving or patient, to get that laundry done or make it to the gym. 'Shoulds' make me feel as though I have failed. When I use the word 'could' it becomes empowering. Through the grace of our Father I can get things done.
Try it.... change your 'shoulds' to 'coulds'!
I have eliminated the word 'should' from my vocabulary. I had this ridiculously long list of 'shoulds'. For example:
I should go workout.
I should do more laundry.
I should be more patient.
I should be more loving.
I should pray more.
This is only a minute portion of the 'should list' but watch what happens when I take the 'shoulds' and make them 'coulds':
I could go workout.
I could do more laundry.
I could be more patient.
I could be more loving.
I could pray more.
It feels like I have taken off 99% of the pressure by changing one little word. 'Coulds' allow me to rely on the Lord for the grace to be more loving or patient, to get that laundry done or make it to the gym. 'Shoulds' make me feel as though I have failed. When I use the word 'could' it becomes empowering. Through the grace of our Father I can get things done.
Try it.... change your 'shoulds' to 'coulds'!
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Free pregnancy tests!
In light of the pro-life theme I thought I would post about a really amazing offer. Sacred Heart Mission, a non for profit organization, is offering readers 10 pregnancy tests, ovulation tests or a combination of both for free! Check it out here.
Thank you Thrifty andChic Mom!
Thank you Thrifty andChic Mom!
Thursday, October 8, 2009
The 13th Day- Story of Fatima DVD
I came across this information about Ignatius Press releasing the movie 'The 13th Day'. This is a movie about the story of Fatima.
At that time Jesus said in reply, 'I give praise to you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike.' – Gospel of Matthew 11:25
Based on the memoirs of Sister Maria Lucia de Jesus dos Santos, and thousands of independent eyewitness accounts, The 13th Day is a dramatic retelling of the experiences of three shepherd children between May and October 1917.
The 13th Day, the first major motion picture by directors Ian and Dominic Higgins, opens with Sister Maria Lucia de Jesus dos Santos recalling the events that transpired between May 13, 1917 and October 13, 1917 in the Cova da Iria (Cove of Irene) region of Fatima, Portugal. The date is 1937 and Sister Lucia, at the Convent of Ponteverde, has been asked by her superiors to write down the events that she said "changed her life forever." cont here
You can order the DVD here.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Did you know?
Did you know?
Ezekiel 4:9 contains a recipe for bread? And in that recipe is all the essential amino acids required for health as well as a major amount of protein. How amazing that God knew ahead of time to create a food so pure and healthy.....
Did you know:
In the Bible it is recommended for an infant child to be circumcised on the eighth day of his life. Later it was discovered that the eighth day of an infants life is when they have highest immunity.
God is so good!
Ezekiel 4:9 contains a recipe for bread? And in that recipe is all the essential amino acids required for health as well as a major amount of protein. How amazing that God knew ahead of time to create a food so pure and healthy.....
Did you know:
In the Bible it is recommended for an infant child to be circumcised on the eighth day of his life. Later it was discovered that the eighth day of an infants life is when they have highest immunity.
God is so good!
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Feast Day of St. Therese and Novena
October 15th marks the Feast Day of St. Thérèse of Lisieux (1873–1897) also known as the Little Flower. Here is a link to EWTN's novena. If you begin tomorrow (Wednesday) it will end on the 15th.
What is a novena?
Taken from www.catholicanswers.com
A novena is simply the pious practice of praying for a particular intention nine times. It is usually done with one prayer over a nine-day period but can be done by praying the same prayer nine times in a row. Any formal, informal, or spontaneous prayer done in a set of nine times constitutes a novena. You may use a formal novena that is approved for devotional use or you may put together your own set of prayers for your private use. The only requirement is that the prayers not be said with the intention to manipulate an answer from God. Whatever they are—if they are said faithfully and with trust in God that he will answer your prayer in the manner he wills to do so—they are fine.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Happy Feast of St. Francis
Happy Feast of St. Francis!
I did not have the opportunity to celebrate today so I think that I will pretend the feast day is tomorrow! The kiddos will never know!
This weekend has been very challenging as my three year old is sick. And it's not the 'down and out' sick, it's the 'constant whining sick'. And it is wearing this mom down.... My dh is back on nights which always ends up being fun.... He gets home around 5am and sleeps until noon. Gets up for about an hour and goes back to sleep until he goes back to work at 5pm. Too much complaining? Okay, no more complaining. :-)
The funny thing is, sickness can really cause a family to slow down. Typically on Monday's we have a very busy morning schedule. Swim lessons, play group, etc. But tomorrow we are going to stay home. And you know, I am kind of excited about that. There will be no where we will 'have' to be and nothing we have to do. We can do a little school, some art and maybe just go for a walk. Sometimes I feel like we are just moving at such a fast pace. It's nice every once and awhile to just get off the train and breathe.
So my prayer for tonight is that I have the patience to parent my three year old, the peace to enjoy a quiet day, and the motivation to get the normal household chores accomplished.
I did not have the opportunity to celebrate today so I think that I will pretend the feast day is tomorrow! The kiddos will never know!
This weekend has been very challenging as my three year old is sick. And it's not the 'down and out' sick, it's the 'constant whining sick'. And it is wearing this mom down.... My dh is back on nights which always ends up being fun.... He gets home around 5am and sleeps until noon. Gets up for about an hour and goes back to sleep until he goes back to work at 5pm. Too much complaining? Okay, no more complaining. :-)
The funny thing is, sickness can really cause a family to slow down. Typically on Monday's we have a very busy morning schedule. Swim lessons, play group, etc. But tomorrow we are going to stay home. And you know, I am kind of excited about that. There will be no where we will 'have' to be and nothing we have to do. We can do a little school, some art and maybe just go for a walk. Sometimes I feel like we are just moving at such a fast pace. It's nice every once and awhile to just get off the train and breathe.
So my prayer for tonight is that I have the patience to parent my three year old, the peace to enjoy a quiet day, and the motivation to get the normal household chores accomplished.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
More prayers
I have a friend from back home who lost her baby today. Her due date was tomorrow and she was going into labor when she lost the baby. She is young and I am asking your prayers as she deals with the loss of her much desired child. Her name is Monica.
Also, there is a rosary request for tonight at 9p for my friend Bob who had the stroke. Please join in with a rosary or your own prayer at this time for his recovery and his family.
www.prayfortheb.com
Thank you all for your spiritual support!
Also, there is a rosary request for tonight at 9p for my friend Bob who had the stroke. Please join in with a rosary or your own prayer at this time for his recovery and his family.
www.prayfortheb.com
Thank you all for your spiritual support!
Tiber River Catholic Reviews
I recently started providing book, CD, and DVD reviews for a website called Tiber River Catholic Reviews.
Tiber River is dedicated to providing authentically Catholic information and opinions about Catholicmedia (books, movies, cds). And the reviews are done by the lay people. It is a great site to check out that latest book you are thinking about reading and see if it really is something you want to read! Check out the orthodoxy of that latest kids DVD or CD. Bookmark this site for a quick way to access reviews on Catholic products.
Mission from website: Tiber River is dedicated to providing authentically Catholic information and opinions about different areas of Catholic culture and to promote liturgical education throughout the Catholic world. The support of family values through our work will help to rebuild a truly Catholic culture that can be the salt of the earth and a light on the hill.
Tiber River is dedicated to providing authentically Catholic information and opinions about Catholicmedia (books, movies, cds). And the reviews are done by the lay people. It is a great site to check out that latest book you are thinking about reading and see if it really is something you want to read! Check out the orthodoxy of that latest kids DVD or CD. Bookmark this site for a quick way to access reviews on Catholic products.
Mission from website: Tiber River is dedicated to providing authentically Catholic information and opinions about different areas of Catholic culture and to promote liturgical education throughout the Catholic world. The support of family values through our work will help to rebuild a truly Catholic culture that can be the salt of the earth and a light on the hill.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Vanish
I recently read a fascinating book called 'Vanish' by Tom Pawlik.
It is a Christian thriller... I use to read a lot of Dean Koontz (SCARY) and never felt peaceful after reading them. I would feel anxious and actually a little afraid. But Pawlik's 'Vanish' is different.
This book really makes you look at good versus evil. People in society try to mute the horror of hell. If we can ignore the truth of hell then we do not have to worry about our actions because they have no long term consequences. When an author decides to tell a story based on the Truth I love it. Check this book out for an action packed and thought provoking read.
From Amazon:
Three strangers each encounter the same mysterious storm and awake the next day to find that everyone else has vanished. There's Conner Hayden, a successful but unscrupulous trial lawyer who has forsaken his family for his career; Helen Krause, a middle-aged model struggling to come to grips with her fading beauty; and Mitch Kent, an enterprising young mechanic unable to escape a past that still haunts him. Afraid and desperate for answers, their paths eventually cross and they discover they are being watched. Elusive and obscured in shadows, the "observers" are apparently forcing them to relive vivid hallucinations of events from their past. They discover a mute homeless boy in tattered clothing and believe he may hold the key to the mystery, but the "observers" soon become aggressive and the four are forced to flee. When the boy disappears, the four decide to head from Chicago to Washington, D.C., in search of answers…and more survivors. Winner of the 2006 operation first novel contest, Vanish is a nonstop suspense thriller in the vein of Ted Dekker.
It is a Christian thriller... I use to read a lot of Dean Koontz (SCARY) and never felt peaceful after reading them. I would feel anxious and actually a little afraid. But Pawlik's 'Vanish' is different.
This book really makes you look at good versus evil. People in society try to mute the horror of hell. If we can ignore the truth of hell then we do not have to worry about our actions because they have no long term consequences. When an author decides to tell a story based on the Truth I love it. Check this book out for an action packed and thought provoking read.
From Amazon:
Three strangers each encounter the same mysterious storm and awake the next day to find that everyone else has vanished. There's Conner Hayden, a successful but unscrupulous trial lawyer who has forsaken his family for his career; Helen Krause, a middle-aged model struggling to come to grips with her fading beauty; and Mitch Kent, an enterprising young mechanic unable to escape a past that still haunts him. Afraid and desperate for answers, their paths eventually cross and they discover they are being watched. Elusive and obscured in shadows, the "observers" are apparently forcing them to relive vivid hallucinations of events from their past. They discover a mute homeless boy in tattered clothing and believe he may hold the key to the mystery, but the "observers" soon become aggressive and the four are forced to flee. When the boy disappears, the four decide to head from Chicago to Washington, D.C., in search of answers…and more survivors. Winner of the 2006 operation first novel contest, Vanish is a nonstop suspense thriller in the vein of Ted Dekker.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
The miracle of life
As you may know, I have a friend who is 32 and has recently experienced three strokes. He is in shape having just ran a marathon last year. He has five children, a beautiful bride and a thriving non-profit organization called 'Dirty Vagabonds' that ministers to inner-city kids. He is an amazing example of Christ's call to be apostles for the Lord and preach the Gospel. You can read about his recovery here at www.prayfortheb.com. (Please continue to pray for Bob and his family).
Once I heard about his stroke I felt like the wind had been knocked out of me. How can a 32 year old, strong and hilarious man be taken down by a stroke? Why does this type of thing happen?
Last night I read a post by his faithful brother. In this post he shared about the miracle that had taken place. I expected a full recovery. They rejoiced because he was able to move his left hand. I burst into tears. His left hand? I guess I knew that he is unable to use the left side of his body but I just didn't process it.
After a few moments it occurred to me that this is indeed a miracle. When tragic things happen like a stroke I think it takes you back to the basics. Things that may have never crossed your mind as a miracle from God suddenly become precious and treasured. If your loved one is fatally sick every extra amount of time that he or she lives becomes a miracle. Every breath, every word, every gesture suddenly becomes a miracle.
Maybe this is a reminder to that life is indeed precious. And every breath is a miracle. I want to take the time today to really look at my daughter and see the miracle of life in her being. I want to look at my husband and see the love of God through him. I want to be thankful for the miracle of the sun when we have had much rain in the past few days. I don't want to take for granted that my left hand moves freely to type, to hug, to love on my dog, to blow kisses to my three year old and especially to receive the Eucharist today at Mass.
My heart aches for those who are experiencing the pain of a loved one who is ill. Or a loved one who has recently passed away. May God bless your Sunday and may you embrace the miracle of life today!
Once I heard about his stroke I felt like the wind had been knocked out of me. How can a 32 year old, strong and hilarious man be taken down by a stroke? Why does this type of thing happen?
Last night I read a post by his faithful brother. In this post he shared about the miracle that had taken place. I expected a full recovery. They rejoiced because he was able to move his left hand. I burst into tears. His left hand? I guess I knew that he is unable to use the left side of his body but I just didn't process it.
After a few moments it occurred to me that this is indeed a miracle. When tragic things happen like a stroke I think it takes you back to the basics. Things that may have never crossed your mind as a miracle from God suddenly become precious and treasured. If your loved one is fatally sick every extra amount of time that he or she lives becomes a miracle. Every breath, every word, every gesture suddenly becomes a miracle.
Maybe this is a reminder to that life is indeed precious. And every breath is a miracle. I want to take the time today to really look at my daughter and see the miracle of life in her being. I want to look at my husband and see the love of God through him. I want to be thankful for the miracle of the sun when we have had much rain in the past few days. I don't want to take for granted that my left hand moves freely to type, to hug, to love on my dog, to blow kisses to my three year old and especially to receive the Eucharist today at Mass.
My heart aches for those who are experiencing the pain of a loved one who is ill. Or a loved one who has recently passed away. May God bless your Sunday and may you embrace the miracle of life today!
Friday, September 25, 2009
My friend Bob
Hi MCM readers,
Here is a website that has information about my friend Bob. If you know him or even if you do not I ask that you take the time to read this post and commit to praying for this amazing man. He is a true apostle of Christ and has been committed to serving the Lord as a missionary for as long as I have known him. Bob and his family serve the poor youth in inner cities. He has started an amazing ministry called 'Vagabond Ministries' and he and his family of seven have been shining example of Christs love to everyone they meet.
Thanks everyone.
www.prayfortheb.com
Reflection 9/24/09
I haven't been to the hospital yet today, so this is a bit more of a reflection on the past week or so than an update.
Last week when this all started, we thought that Bob went to hospital with some sort of bad migrane. I remember telling someone to pray for Bob and told them what was going on, and they asked me if they had ruled out a stroke. I think I looked at him like he was a fool; I thought to myself, "A stroke? My brother is 31 and in terriffic health - that's so dumb." Sure enough, a few hours later, I got a phone call from my sister-in-law Kate, telling me that Bob had had a stroke.
I remember when I told someone about this they had told me to tell Bob not to give up; the person told me about how they had a stroke and the long process they went through to get back to health. I politely thanked that man for sharing his story, but informed him "that my brother was okay," and "that he just had a minor stroke." I was pretty sure this was going to be over in a few days. Unfortunately, this is not the case.
I also remember go into the ICU to see Bob for the first time. I was waiting for my brother Bob to jump out at say, "I got you!" and find out this is all some big, sick practical joke. But sure enough, there he was in a hospital bed.
Here's what we know about Bob- Bob had 3 strokes and the main stroke was pretty massive. Praise God that Bob's not in any immediate danger anymore of having more strokes. They've located the source of the stroke and the blood thinners should have by now broken down that clot. The parts of Bob's brain that were affected by the stroke can't heal or come back, however, what normally happens is that other parts of the brain compensate for those that are not working. Since Bob is so young and in great health, the doctors believe that Bob can make a good recovery. We know that Bob can only get better from here. That being said please realize the situation is still very serious.
Bob had 3 strokes and only time and rehab will tell exactly what comes back and what does not. This is why we continue to ask for your help in praying for Bob and for donations for his family. Thank you first of all for your prayers. Our entire family is so thankful that you would pray for Bob and his family. We are also so overwhelmed by your donations to his family. It's really amazing to see how everyone's been a part of this through their donations. Every bit helps- I've been touched by those who have given even $5 - knowing that for some people that's a sacrifice. I am reminded of the story from the Gospel of Mark of the widow who gave her last "penny" to God.
If you are reading this and don't know Bob that well, please know that Bob's never really lived his life to collect a big paycheck or been focused on money. In fact, his family of 7 lives a pretty simple life. I remember that once Bob bought a modest HDTV only to give it away a few weeks later to the poor because he and his wife thought it was too extravagant for their lifestyle. We (Bob's family) are just trying to ensure that Bob and Kate don't have to be concerned with finances for the time being while they are going through all this since Bob is self-employed.
We also know that God is in control and that God is at work even through this situation. More than anything please keep on praying.
One of the things that Bob has been repeating over and over is that "he feels really loved," and I can speak for all my family and tell you that we all feel that way.
Andy
Update 9/23/09
Bob began intensive rehab and will be on a pretty packed schedule of rehab every day. His spirits are still good and he believes that he can do it with God's help. He's told me numerous times that he told God, "he doesn't mind getting fat, as long as he gets bettter." He learned today how to push his own wheel chair, which was a little dangerous when he started going into other people's rooms and turning the lights on. Everyday Bob will have to go through both physical, speech, and occupational therapy. Bob will have a long journey back to health and I want to invite you to send emails to Bob letting him know how you and your families are praying for him, send him some words of encouragement, and/or let him know why he has a special place in your life. I will print those emails and give them to Bob.
Pray for his wife Kate- she has been with Bob pretty much around the clock. Pray that she would get some rest and that God would be her strength in the days ahead. Pray for a miracle.
If you want to send cards to Bob in the hospital they can be sent toBob Lesnefsky, Room 6234UPMC Mercy1400 Locust St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Please no visitors without checking with the family
Thanks for the prayers. Keep them coming. Andy
Here is a website that has information about my friend Bob. If you know him or even if you do not I ask that you take the time to read this post and commit to praying for this amazing man. He is a true apostle of Christ and has been committed to serving the Lord as a missionary for as long as I have known him. Bob and his family serve the poor youth in inner cities. He has started an amazing ministry called 'Vagabond Ministries' and he and his family of seven have been shining example of Christs love to everyone they meet.
Thanks everyone.
www.prayfortheb.com
Reflection 9/24/09
I haven't been to the hospital yet today, so this is a bit more of a reflection on the past week or so than an update.
Last week when this all started, we thought that Bob went to hospital with some sort of bad migrane. I remember telling someone to pray for Bob and told them what was going on, and they asked me if they had ruled out a stroke. I think I looked at him like he was a fool; I thought to myself, "A stroke? My brother is 31 and in terriffic health - that's so dumb." Sure enough, a few hours later, I got a phone call from my sister-in-law Kate, telling me that Bob had had a stroke.
I remember when I told someone about this they had told me to tell Bob not to give up; the person told me about how they had a stroke and the long process they went through to get back to health. I politely thanked that man for sharing his story, but informed him "that my brother was okay," and "that he just had a minor stroke." I was pretty sure this was going to be over in a few days. Unfortunately, this is not the case.
I also remember go into the ICU to see Bob for the first time. I was waiting for my brother Bob to jump out at say, "I got you!" and find out this is all some big, sick practical joke. But sure enough, there he was in a hospital bed.
Here's what we know about Bob- Bob had 3 strokes and the main stroke was pretty massive. Praise God that Bob's not in any immediate danger anymore of having more strokes. They've located the source of the stroke and the blood thinners should have by now broken down that clot. The parts of Bob's brain that were affected by the stroke can't heal or come back, however, what normally happens is that other parts of the brain compensate for those that are not working. Since Bob is so young and in great health, the doctors believe that Bob can make a good recovery. We know that Bob can only get better from here. That being said please realize the situation is still very serious.
Bob had 3 strokes and only time and rehab will tell exactly what comes back and what does not. This is why we continue to ask for your help in praying for Bob and for donations for his family. Thank you first of all for your prayers. Our entire family is so thankful that you would pray for Bob and his family. We are also so overwhelmed by your donations to his family. It's really amazing to see how everyone's been a part of this through their donations. Every bit helps- I've been touched by those who have given even $5 - knowing that for some people that's a sacrifice. I am reminded of the story from the Gospel of Mark of the widow who gave her last "penny" to God.
If you are reading this and don't know Bob that well, please know that Bob's never really lived his life to collect a big paycheck or been focused on money. In fact, his family of 7 lives a pretty simple life. I remember that once Bob bought a modest HDTV only to give it away a few weeks later to the poor because he and his wife thought it was too extravagant for their lifestyle. We (Bob's family) are just trying to ensure that Bob and Kate don't have to be concerned with finances for the time being while they are going through all this since Bob is self-employed.
We also know that God is in control and that God is at work even through this situation. More than anything please keep on praying.
One of the things that Bob has been repeating over and over is that "he feels really loved," and I can speak for all my family and tell you that we all feel that way.
Andy
Update 9/23/09
Bob began intensive rehab and will be on a pretty packed schedule of rehab every day. His spirits are still good and he believes that he can do it with God's help. He's told me numerous times that he told God, "he doesn't mind getting fat, as long as he gets bettter." He learned today how to push his own wheel chair, which was a little dangerous when he started going into other people's rooms and turning the lights on. Everyday Bob will have to go through both physical, speech, and occupational therapy. Bob will have a long journey back to health and I want to invite you to send emails to Bob letting him know how you and your families are praying for him, send him some words of encouragement, and/or let him know why he has a special place in your life. I will print those emails and give them to Bob.
Pray for his wife Kate- she has been with Bob pretty much around the clock. Pray that she would get some rest and that God would be her strength in the days ahead. Pray for a miracle.
If you want to send cards to Bob in the hospital they can be sent toBob Lesnefsky, Room 6234UPMC Mercy1400 Locust St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Please no visitors without checking with the family
Thanks for the prayers. Keep them coming. Andy
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Pro-life Billboards wanting to go up for Ohio-Illinois game
Hi MCM readers,
I received this email from our local pregnancy center and thought maybe I would forward it to you and see if you might post it on your blogs. Interesting concept..... If you are able to donate, great! If you are able to pass on the message, thank you! Thanks for reading!
In April, PDHC started a public awareness campaign that included the use of bumper stickers, business cards, fliers, and billboards. The results have been incredible. Calls to the hotline have increase significantly every month and continue to increase. A picture of one of the billboards is here on the left. These have saved many lives and we intend to continue to post these messages all over Columbus, thanks to the generosity of our supporters and the imagination of some dedicated volunteers.
This morning, we have been given an opportunity to increase the awareness of PDHC dramatically during the Ohio State football season by advertising right in the heart of the pre- and post-game activities. The photo and map to the right shows the location and impact of a proposed billboard placement for the "pink signs" that have been so successful in bringing women to our hotline and our centers. The location is right on Olentangy River Road and is the most visible presence that we have had thus far.This billboard, since it is in such a high traffic area and a prime location, is more expensive than the others that we have been placing.
The cost to display this life-saving message through the OSU football season will be
$2,400.Believe me. If I didn't think that this would save lives, I wouldn't have bothered to write today. If you can help fund this board, please click here.
It would be best if we could get it up for the Illinois game this weekend, so I'll need to know right away if you can help. If we don't see the support for this billboard, we will simply not do it. If you have any questions or if you would prefer to talk to me about your support of this opportunity, please click here to e-mail me, or you can just call me at 614.888.8774, extension 6116.
I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Thank you. God bless you. I hope to hear from you.
Tim Welsh, Executive Director
Pregnancy Decision Health Centers
timw@pdhc.org
Pregnancy Decision Health Centers 665 E. Dublin-Granville Rd. Suite 120 Columbus OH 43229
I received this email from our local pregnancy center and thought maybe I would forward it to you and see if you might post it on your blogs. Interesting concept..... If you are able to donate, great! If you are able to pass on the message, thank you! Thanks for reading!
In April, PDHC started a public awareness campaign that included the use of bumper stickers, business cards, fliers, and billboards. The results have been incredible. Calls to the hotline have increase significantly every month and continue to increase. A picture of one of the billboards is here on the left. These have saved many lives and we intend to continue to post these messages all over Columbus, thanks to the generosity of our supporters and the imagination of some dedicated volunteers.
This morning, we have been given an opportunity to increase the awareness of PDHC dramatically during the Ohio State football season by advertising right in the heart of the pre- and post-game activities. The photo and map to the right shows the location and impact of a proposed billboard placement for the "pink signs" that have been so successful in bringing women to our hotline and our centers. The location is right on Olentangy River Road and is the most visible presence that we have had thus far.This billboard, since it is in such a high traffic area and a prime location, is more expensive than the others that we have been placing.
The cost to display this life-saving message through the OSU football season will be
$2,400.Believe me. If I didn't think that this would save lives, I wouldn't have bothered to write today. If you can help fund this board, please click here.
It would be best if we could get it up for the Illinois game this weekend, so I'll need to know right away if you can help. If we don't see the support for this billboard, we will simply not do it. If you have any questions or if you would prefer to talk to me about your support of this opportunity, please click here to e-mail me, or you can just call me at 614.888.8774, extension 6116.
I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Thank you. God bless you. I hope to hear from you.
Tim Welsh, Executive Director
Pregnancy Decision Health Centers
timw@pdhc.org
Pregnancy Decision Health Centers 665 E. Dublin-Granville Rd. Suite 120 Columbus OH 43229
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Intl. Prayer and Fasting Campaign
Pittsburgh will be hosting the meeting of the G-20 nations Sept. 24-25. The focus of the international gathering will be on the worldwide economic recession.
Catholics are committed to a response to the crisis that is rooted in the dignity of work and the equality of all peoples.
The Catholic Men's Fellowship of Pittsburgh and the National Fellowship of Catholic Men will lead the G-20 International Prayer and Fasting Campaign. With the shport of Bishop Zubik, the groups will drop to their knees before the Lord in the hopes of changing the hearts of world leaders.
CMF and NFCM are asking Catholics around the world to support and/or participate in the campaign. Those who cannot participate in Pittsburgh are asked to make a holy hour at a parish near them. People wishing to do this should send an email to: info@cmfpitt.org. Organizers hope to have adoration in at least all 20 nations represented by the G-20.
Catholics are committed to a response to the crisis that is rooted in the dignity of work and the equality of all peoples.
The Catholic Men's Fellowship of Pittsburgh and the National Fellowship of Catholic Men will lead the G-20 International Prayer and Fasting Campaign. With the shport of Bishop Zubik, the groups will drop to their knees before the Lord in the hopes of changing the hearts of world leaders.
CMF and NFCM are asking Catholics around the world to support and/or participate in the campaign. Those who cannot participate in Pittsburgh are asked to make a holy hour at a parish near them. People wishing to do this should send an email to: info@cmfpitt.org. Organizers hope to have adoration in at least all 20 nations represented by the G-20.
Monday, September 21, 2009
40 Days for Life
It's that time of year again. 40 Days for Life will begin this week.
Wednesday, September 23, the largest 40 Days for Life campaign in history launches in 212 cities across 45 American states, 5 Canadian provinces, and Denmark. For 40 intense days, tens of thousands of faithful volunteers will be praying, fasting, holding peaceful vigils outside abortion facilities, and spreading the pro-life message through community outreach. Participation in 40 Days for Life is not always easy and can involve sacrifice. So why are you and I about to do this?
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so take a moment -- right now -- to look at the picture at:http://40daysforlife.com/blog/?p=253
That's Baby David (don't you love his name? :-)Last fall, on the third day of the 40 Days for Life prayer vigil in Sarasota, Florida, a nervous Hispanic woman went to the local Planned Parenthood abortion center with her mother and brother.The 40 Days for Life prayer volunteers offered her literature, but she didn't understand their English. When a bilingual counselor arrived, she learned that the woman was in her 14th week of pregnancy and she was seeking a second-trimester abortion.The counselor instead offered real help to get her to one of the local pregnancy resource centers. As a result, she chose life for her baby. When asked why she changed her mind and decided not to abort, the woman's answer was, "Because you were here. I was looking for a sign from God."
'Throughout the remainder of her pregnancy, many volunteers helped her and her family with various needs, including spiritual and financial support.Then, on March 25 of this year, 6-pound, 6-ounce baby David made his entrance into the world -- where he was greeted by many of the dedicated volunteers and new found friends who have continued their faith journey with his mother and family.A baby saved from abortion. A mother spared from a life of regrets. That is why we do what we do.This story represents just one of the 1,561 lives that have been spared from abortion due to 40 Days for Life campaigns over the last two years. As you pray, fast, stand vigil, and conduct outreach during 40 Days for Life from September 23 through November 1, know that YOUR efforts could help to save the life of a child -- like David -- and could protect a mother from making a tragic abortion decision.If you haven't already, find the 40 Days for Life location nearest to you by visiting: http://www.40daysforlife.com/location.cfm
Click on the link of the closest site, be sure to signup for updates, and get involved.Your humble, simple participation in 40 Days for Lifecan make a profound difference. YOU can help to change the world, one life at a time.
Yours For Life,
David Bereit
National Director
40 Days for Life
Wednesday, September 23, the largest 40 Days for Life campaign in history launches in 212 cities across 45 American states, 5 Canadian provinces, and Denmark. For 40 intense days, tens of thousands of faithful volunteers will be praying, fasting, holding peaceful vigils outside abortion facilities, and spreading the pro-life message through community outreach. Participation in 40 Days for Life is not always easy and can involve sacrifice. So why are you and I about to do this?
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so take a moment -- right now -- to look at the picture at:http://40daysforlife.com/blog/?p=253
That's Baby David (don't you love his name? :-)Last fall, on the third day of the 40 Days for Life prayer vigil in Sarasota, Florida, a nervous Hispanic woman went to the local Planned Parenthood abortion center with her mother and brother.The 40 Days for Life prayer volunteers offered her literature, but she didn't understand their English. When a bilingual counselor arrived, she learned that the woman was in her 14th week of pregnancy and she was seeking a second-trimester abortion.The counselor instead offered real help to get her to one of the local pregnancy resource centers. As a result, she chose life for her baby. When asked why she changed her mind and decided not to abort, the woman's answer was, "Because you were here. I was looking for a sign from God."
'Throughout the remainder of her pregnancy, many volunteers helped her and her family with various needs, including spiritual and financial support.Then, on March 25 of this year, 6-pound, 6-ounce baby David made his entrance into the world -- where he was greeted by many of the dedicated volunteers and new found friends who have continued their faith journey with his mother and family.A baby saved from abortion. A mother spared from a life of regrets. That is why we do what we do.This story represents just one of the 1,561 lives that have been spared from abortion due to 40 Days for Life campaigns over the last two years. As you pray, fast, stand vigil, and conduct outreach during 40 Days for Life from September 23 through November 1, know that YOUR efforts could help to save the life of a child -- like David -- and could protect a mother from making a tragic abortion decision.If you haven't already, find the 40 Days for Life location nearest to you by visiting: http://www.40daysforlife.com/location.cfm
Click on the link of the closest site, be sure to signup for updates, and get involved.Your humble, simple participation in 40 Days for Lifecan make a profound difference. YOU can help to change the world, one life at a time.
Yours For Life,
David Bereit
National Director
40 Days for Life
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Prayer Request
Hello MCM readers,
I have come to ask for some prayers.
A good friend of mine just had a stroke at age 32. He is the husband to a wonderful woman and father to five amazing children. The family has devoted themselves to mission work by witnessing about Christ to inner-city kids. They started a non for profit called 'Vagabond Ministries' and Bob also raps for Christ. (He is also known as Righteous B)
You can read more about the current situation here:
www.prayfortheb.com
****************************************************************
Another prayer request is for a good friend who just lost her 3 1/2 month old daughter, Eva. Eva was diagnosed with a chromosonal imbalance and heart failure early in the pregnancy. She was advised to abort and chose to honor life instead. This woman chose to have her little girl knowing that the child's diagnosis was poor. She stood up for life and showed all of us that life is truly precious. She adored her time with her little one and now needs prayers. You can read about her story here:
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/clearfield
I have come to ask for some prayers.
A good friend of mine just had a stroke at age 32. He is the husband to a wonderful woman and father to five amazing children. The family has devoted themselves to mission work by witnessing about Christ to inner-city kids. They started a non for profit called 'Vagabond Ministries' and Bob also raps for Christ. (He is also known as Righteous B)
You can read more about the current situation here:
www.prayfortheb.com
****************************************************************
Another prayer request is for a good friend who just lost her 3 1/2 month old daughter, Eva. Eva was diagnosed with a chromosonal imbalance and heart failure early in the pregnancy. She was advised to abort and chose to honor life instead. This woman chose to have her little girl knowing that the child's diagnosis was poor. She stood up for life and showed all of us that life is truly precious. She adored her time with her little one and now needs prayers. You can read about her story here:
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/clearfield
Friday, September 18, 2009
Money Saving Blogs
Have I shared with you my two favorite 'Mom-inspired money saving blogs'?
The first site is my good friend Ellen's-
The second is
Both sites provide fantastic information that can save time, money and energy. Three things that we all could use more of!!!!
Friday, September 11, 2009
September 11, 2001
I wish I had profound words to share... or a beautiful way to remember those lost on this day. I do have my desire to share my deepest respect for all those effected by September 11th. My prayers are with all the families that lost a loved one, with those who struggle toovercome the trauma of what they saw, for a nation deeply impacted by the terrorist intrustion.
We will not forget.....
We will not forget.....
Stop the Abortion Mandate
(This was sent to me by a friend)
Last night, President Obama addressed a joint session of Congress -- and the nation -- about his plan for a national, government-run health care system, stating:
"One more misunderstanding I want to clear up -- underour plan, no federal dollars will be used to fundabortions."
This simply IS NOT TRUE! Even the mainstream media and respected fact-checking organizations are calling out the President on this misinformation. Make no mistake about it:
Abortion WILL be funded by the government through the proposed health care plan. For years, Planned Parenthood and the abortion lobby have been working towards the day when abortion would be included in comprehensive health care reform -- the day when abortion coverage would become mandatory and paid for with your tax dollars.
Unless we act NOW, that day is here! If President Obama's proposed health care legislation passes, abortion providers will get their wish -- a multi-billion-dollar bailout, funded by the federal government through your tax dollars. Even as national polls reveal growing opposition to the abortion-laden health care reform proposals, new polling results released today show that the majorityof Americans think it is WRONG for the government to pay for abortions and DO NOT want the government to fund health plans that fund abortions.We must redouble our efforts to stop the abortion mandate in proposed health care reform legislation.
That's why we're inviting you to join pro-lifers across the country TODAY in the "VOID THE ABORTION MANDATE" virtual rally and grassroots campaign. President Obama and your representatives in Congressneed to hear from you TODAY. Here's what to do right now:
* CONTACT YOUR SENATORS AND CONGRESSMAN:
Visit http://www.StopTheAbortionMandate.com and click on the "voided check" image to send a clear message to your elected representatives that you don't want the government funding abortion: http://stoptheabortionmandate.com/
* SOCIAL NETWORKING ACTIVISM:
Download the new "Void the Abortion Mandate" voided check logo and sample status message and post them on Twitter, Facebook, MySpace and other social networking web sites. Get them here: http://stoptheabortionmandate.com/
* GET THE FACTS -- HEALTH CARE REFORM FUNDS ABORTION:
Having a hard time explaining how the proposed health care plan forces taxpayers to subsidize abortion? Get the new chart revealing the exact money trail: http://stoptheabortionmandate.com/
* SEE THE LATEST POLLING RESULTS:
The majority of Americans think it is wrong for the government to pay for abortions and do not want the government to fund health plans that fund abortions. See the polling results released today at: http://stoptheabortionmandate.com/
* SPREAD THE WORD:
Forward this information to every person you can, encouraging them to take action at: http://stoptheabortionmandate.com/
Last night, President Obama addressed a joint session of Congress -- and the nation -- about his plan for a national, government-run health care system, stating:
"One more misunderstanding I want to clear up -- underour plan, no federal dollars will be used to fundabortions."
This simply IS NOT TRUE! Even the mainstream media and respected fact-checking organizations are calling out the President on this misinformation. Make no mistake about it:
Abortion WILL be funded by the government through the proposed health care plan. For years, Planned Parenthood and the abortion lobby have been working towards the day when abortion would be included in comprehensive health care reform -- the day when abortion coverage would become mandatory and paid for with your tax dollars.
Unless we act NOW, that day is here! If President Obama's proposed health care legislation passes, abortion providers will get their wish -- a multi-billion-dollar bailout, funded by the federal government through your tax dollars. Even as national polls reveal growing opposition to the abortion-laden health care reform proposals, new polling results released today show that the majorityof Americans think it is WRONG for the government to pay for abortions and DO NOT want the government to fund health plans that fund abortions.We must redouble our efforts to stop the abortion mandate in proposed health care reform legislation.
That's why we're inviting you to join pro-lifers across the country TODAY in the "VOID THE ABORTION MANDATE" virtual rally and grassroots campaign. President Obama and your representatives in Congressneed to hear from you TODAY. Here's what to do right now:
* CONTACT YOUR SENATORS AND CONGRESSMAN:
Visit http://www.StopTheAbortionMandate.com and click on the "voided check" image to send a clear message to your elected representatives that you don't want the government funding abortion: http://stoptheabortionmandate.com/
* SOCIAL NETWORKING ACTIVISM:
Download the new "Void the Abortion Mandate" voided check logo and sample status message and post them on Twitter, Facebook, MySpace and other social networking web sites. Get them here: http://stoptheabortionmandate.com/
* GET THE FACTS -- HEALTH CARE REFORM FUNDS ABORTION:
Having a hard time explaining how the proposed health care plan forces taxpayers to subsidize abortion? Get the new chart revealing the exact money trail: http://stoptheabortionmandate.com/
* SEE THE LATEST POLLING RESULTS:
The majority of Americans think it is wrong for the government to pay for abortions and do not want the government to fund health plans that fund abortions. See the polling results released today at: http://stoptheabortionmandate.com/
* SPREAD THE WORD:
Forward this information to every person you can, encouraging them to take action at: http://stoptheabortionmandate.com/
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Time Travelers Wife and Pro-life
Americans United for Life put out a really great article on the 'Time Travelers Wife' and the Pro-life message. I saw the movie and enjoyed it.... I really enjoyed the pro-life message that was able to be connected with the movie. Check them both out...
You can find the link here at Americans United for Life.
You can find the link here at Americans United for Life.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Interesting article on healthcare
TIME
Monday, Aug. 17, 2009
The Fatal Flaw of Obamacare
By Ramesh Ponnuru
There are two basic points about health-care reform that President Obama wants to convey. The first is that, as he put it in an ABC special in June, "the status quo is untenable." Our health-care system is rife with "skewed incentives." It gives us "a whole bunch of care" that "may not be making us healthier." It generates too many specialists and not enough primary-care physicians. It is "bankrupting families," "bankrupting businesses" and "bankrupting our government at the state and federal level. So we know things are going to have to change."
Obama's second major point is that--to quote from the same broadcast--"if you are happy with your plan and you are happy with your doctor, then we don't want you to have to change ... So what we're saying is, If you are happy with your plan and your doctor, you stick with it."So the system is an unsustainable disaster, but you can keep your piece of it if you want. And the Democrats wonder why selling health-care reform to the public has been so hard?
Again and again, their effort has brought us into a land of paradoxes. Public skepticism is warranted when the President promises to cut costs while simultaneously providing coverage to nearly 50 million uninsured people. It is even more warranted when his congressional allies seek to raise taxes to pay for all the new spending that this cost-cutting entails. We aren't talking about short-term spending either; this isn't a trillion-dollar investment in a new system that will ultimately save money. The Congressional Budget Office says the leading health-care-reform proposals will increase health-care spending and make the budget harder to balance in the long run. Yet saving money is the President's principal stated rationale for reform.
Health-care reformers send out mixed messages on the uninsured as well. The moral imperative of improving their health care is what drives the passion of most liberal activists for reform. But when you read the liberal policy analysts, it quickly becomes clear that getting young and healthy people to pay more in premiums than they will spend on medical expenses is the point of forcing them to buy insurance. Which is it? In aggregate, are we trying to rescue the uninsured or bilk them? Is reform something we are doing for them or to them?
The reformers' speed belies their words as well. If health-care reform is so critically important, as they keep insisting, why not take the time to get it right? Hard as it is to believe, at one point Obama was urging the House and Senate to pass legislation by three weeks after they began debating it.One final contradiction may lie beneath all the others. Democrats, particularly those involved in health policy, were scarred by President Clinton's failure to achieve reform in 1994. They are determined to avoid a similar debacle. So on every procedural question, they have done the reverse of what he did.
Everything is different this time--everything, that is, except the plan. The Democrats are seeking mostly the same policies they sought 15 years ago: mandates, regulations on insurance companies, new government-managed markets. The major difference is that this time they also want a "public option," an insurance program open to everyone and run by the government. Obamacare is Clintoncare with a little more liberalism.The Democrats have apparently concluded that it was tactical blunders that sank Clinton. It wasn't. It was his plan. Like today's plans, it had too many conflicting goals.
Stanley Greenberg, who was polling for Clinton back then, recently reminded Democrats that the insured public in the early '90s just could not be persuaded that the President was going to cut its costs by expanding coverage for others. No amount of clever strategizing is going to make the sales job easier this time. Instead, the President is in a series of double binds. The more he emphasizes how much has to change, for example, the more people are going to doubt his pledge that they can keep their doctor.
From an email I sent yesterday, 8/12/09 Wed 152pm PDT: "AAAA's cousin, the one in the picture, told me that a nurse in New York who had worked in the UK said that if you are 60, you no longer qualify for kidney dialysis and that CTs and MRIs are strictly rationed under socialized medicine in the UK. I have not verified that information by logging on to the UK's national health service website, so I'm not sure if the information is correct. However, I'm glad AAAA is not in the UK. She has had 10 CTs and three operations requiring general anesthesia, each performed by a Professor of Neurosurgery, and AAAA is 60. She may not have qualified for any intervention in the UK."
I found this today: "Hospitals across London are warning that unless more dialysis units are opened urgently to treat kidney patients, the system could face collapse."http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/2205001.stm
AAAA was careful about her diet and weighs 99 pounds (her BMI is 18.7, which is normal). She is not hypertensive, has a normal lipid profile, never smoked, does not drink alcohol (not even red wine, which is good for you in moderation), does not even drink coffee (which is good for you). She did not take drugs (not even marijuana). She exercised and told her patients to diet and exercise. So she fulfilled the requirements of preventive health that is mandated by socialized medicine. One might argue that she should have avoided stress by not marrying me.
Congress may yet pass the health legislation Obama wants. If it does, that success will reflect the Democrats' numbers in Congress and their determination, not public enthusiasm. This time there is no barrage of Harry and Louise ads to blame. It is health-care reform's own contradictions that are causing it to sink.
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1914973,00.html
Copyright © 2009 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.
Monday, Aug. 17, 2009
The Fatal Flaw of Obamacare
By Ramesh Ponnuru
There are two basic points about health-care reform that President Obama wants to convey. The first is that, as he put it in an ABC special in June, "the status quo is untenable." Our health-care system is rife with "skewed incentives." It gives us "a whole bunch of care" that "may not be making us healthier." It generates too many specialists and not enough primary-care physicians. It is "bankrupting families," "bankrupting businesses" and "bankrupting our government at the state and federal level. So we know things are going to have to change."
Obama's second major point is that--to quote from the same broadcast--"if you are happy with your plan and you are happy with your doctor, then we don't want you to have to change ... So what we're saying is, If you are happy with your plan and your doctor, you stick with it."So the system is an unsustainable disaster, but you can keep your piece of it if you want. And the Democrats wonder why selling health-care reform to the public has been so hard?
Again and again, their effort has brought us into a land of paradoxes. Public skepticism is warranted when the President promises to cut costs while simultaneously providing coverage to nearly 50 million uninsured people. It is even more warranted when his congressional allies seek to raise taxes to pay for all the new spending that this cost-cutting entails. We aren't talking about short-term spending either; this isn't a trillion-dollar investment in a new system that will ultimately save money. The Congressional Budget Office says the leading health-care-reform proposals will increase health-care spending and make the budget harder to balance in the long run. Yet saving money is the President's principal stated rationale for reform.
Health-care reformers send out mixed messages on the uninsured as well. The moral imperative of improving their health care is what drives the passion of most liberal activists for reform. But when you read the liberal policy analysts, it quickly becomes clear that getting young and healthy people to pay more in premiums than they will spend on medical expenses is the point of forcing them to buy insurance. Which is it? In aggregate, are we trying to rescue the uninsured or bilk them? Is reform something we are doing for them or to them?
The reformers' speed belies their words as well. If health-care reform is so critically important, as they keep insisting, why not take the time to get it right? Hard as it is to believe, at one point Obama was urging the House and Senate to pass legislation by three weeks after they began debating it.One final contradiction may lie beneath all the others. Democrats, particularly those involved in health policy, were scarred by President Clinton's failure to achieve reform in 1994. They are determined to avoid a similar debacle. So on every procedural question, they have done the reverse of what he did.
Everything is different this time--everything, that is, except the plan. The Democrats are seeking mostly the same policies they sought 15 years ago: mandates, regulations on insurance companies, new government-managed markets. The major difference is that this time they also want a "public option," an insurance program open to everyone and run by the government. Obamacare is Clintoncare with a little more liberalism.The Democrats have apparently concluded that it was tactical blunders that sank Clinton. It wasn't. It was his plan. Like today's plans, it had too many conflicting goals.
Stanley Greenberg, who was polling for Clinton back then, recently reminded Democrats that the insured public in the early '90s just could not be persuaded that the President was going to cut its costs by expanding coverage for others. No amount of clever strategizing is going to make the sales job easier this time. Instead, the President is in a series of double binds. The more he emphasizes how much has to change, for example, the more people are going to doubt his pledge that they can keep their doctor.
From an email I sent yesterday, 8/12/09 Wed 152pm PDT: "AAAA's cousin, the one in the picture, told me that a nurse in New York who had worked in the UK said that if you are 60, you no longer qualify for kidney dialysis and that CTs and MRIs are strictly rationed under socialized medicine in the UK. I have not verified that information by logging on to the UK's national health service website, so I'm not sure if the information is correct. However, I'm glad AAAA is not in the UK. She has had 10 CTs and three operations requiring general anesthesia, each performed by a Professor of Neurosurgery, and AAAA is 60. She may not have qualified for any intervention in the UK."
I found this today: "Hospitals across London are warning that unless more dialysis units are opened urgently to treat kidney patients, the system could face collapse."http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/2205001.stm
AAAA was careful about her diet and weighs 99 pounds (her BMI is 18.7, which is normal). She is not hypertensive, has a normal lipid profile, never smoked, does not drink alcohol (not even red wine, which is good for you in moderation), does not even drink coffee (which is good for you). She did not take drugs (not even marijuana). She exercised and told her patients to diet and exercise. So she fulfilled the requirements of preventive health that is mandated by socialized medicine. One might argue that she should have avoided stress by not marrying me.
Congress may yet pass the health legislation Obama wants. If it does, that success will reflect the Democrats' numbers in Congress and their determination, not public enthusiasm. This time there is no barrage of Harry and Louise ads to blame. It is health-care reform's own contradictions that are causing it to sink.
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1914973,00.html
Copyright © 2009 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Letting go
Today, with God's loving grace, I went through boxes of infant clothes. I am dealing with 'secondary infertility' meaning that I have had one child (thank you Jesus!) but now I am unable to have another. God is faithful and I know that if it is in His plan for me to have more children then I will. But the human part of me cannot seem to let go of my dream of having 5 or 6 kiddos running around making me crazy... and happy!
I intentionally wanted to get rid of as much as I could so that I could 'let-go' of the desire to have another baby. I feel called to 'let-go' because I was just thinking about it all the time. I am learning to deal with secondary infertility and for me, giving away four bags of baby clothes was just the thing I needed to do in order to really step forward in faith.
I am excited to know that instead of the clothes sitting in the garage, now they will go to someone who needs them. My next step is to go through the larger items and decide what can be donated or sold and what should be kept. I hate to hold onto anything because it feels like I am not fully letting go but I know that if I were to become pregnant in the next three years we wouldn't be able to re-buy the larger items.
For now I rest in Christ. I know that His plan is the plan I desire. For all those who are dealing with fertility issues, my prayers go out to you. You will be in my heart in a special way this week.
Proverbs 3:5
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
I intentionally wanted to get rid of as much as I could so that I could 'let-go' of the desire to have another baby. I feel called to 'let-go' because I was just thinking about it all the time. I am learning to deal with secondary infertility and for me, giving away four bags of baby clothes was just the thing I needed to do in order to really step forward in faith.
I am excited to know that instead of the clothes sitting in the garage, now they will go to someone who needs them. My next step is to go through the larger items and decide what can be donated or sold and what should be kept. I hate to hold onto anything because it feels like I am not fully letting go but I know that if I were to become pregnant in the next three years we wouldn't be able to re-buy the larger items.
For now I rest in Christ. I know that His plan is the plan I desire. For all those who are dealing with fertility issues, my prayers go out to you. You will be in my heart in a special way this week.
Proverbs 3:5
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Kid altar questions
I put together a 'kid' friendly altar for my Liv. So far I used a t.v. tray, covered it with blue cloth, put a Crucifix and statue of Mary on it and now I want to do something to personalize it for Liv. I want her touch to be on it so she feels like it is hers. Then the goal is to say a morning prayer and an evening prayer in front of it. We always remember night prayers but rarely remember morning prayers... and what better way to start the morning then with prayer.
So does anyone have any suggestions? Maybe a good craft? Does anyone else do this?
So does anyone have any suggestions? Maybe a good craft? Does anyone else do this?
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Martha Martha
Part II of my rather long delay at the airport led me to another article of interest. This one about Martha. For all the times I have read Luke 10:41-42 I never really saw it in the light I did at the airport in Tennessee. I felt like reading Jesus' words to Martha could be directly spoken to me. He says,
"Martha, Martha you are anxious and worried about many things. There is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part and it will not be taken from her". Luke 10:41-42
Now Martha is someone I can relate to. She is hardworking, focused, and manages an entire household. All the while she is completely missing the mark. And Martha had Jesus right in front of her and she was still missing the mark! It is just amazing to me to think of Jesus saying, 'You (Martha) are anxious and worried'. First of all, how did He know? Was her face worried? Was she scurrying about trying to get things done? Maybe biting her nails?
I know that mindset; anxious, scurrying about in order to get things done. And I can almost hear Jesus specifically talking to me. What is important is the next line. Jesus says to look to Mary. To look at what she has embraced and see that her peace will always be with her because she has chosen the Lord. And truthfully, I am sure Martha thought she was doing well, doing the right thing. But she was so busy getting things done that she forgot to turn her heart over to the Lord. Fortunately for her she had the actual Lord to let her know what she was doing wrong!
Lord, help us to put the things of non importance aside and always keep our hearts open to You. Help us to embrace Martha's servitude and Mary's heart.
"Martha, Martha you are anxious and worried about many things. There is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part and it will not be taken from her". Luke 10:41-42
Now Martha is someone I can relate to. She is hardworking, focused, and manages an entire household. All the while she is completely missing the mark. And Martha had Jesus right in front of her and she was still missing the mark! It is just amazing to me to think of Jesus saying, 'You (Martha) are anxious and worried'. First of all, how did He know? Was her face worried? Was she scurrying about trying to get things done? Maybe biting her nails?
I know that mindset; anxious, scurrying about in order to get things done. And I can almost hear Jesus specifically talking to me. What is important is the next line. Jesus says to look to Mary. To look at what she has embraced and see that her peace will always be with her because she has chosen the Lord. And truthfully, I am sure Martha thought she was doing well, doing the right thing. But she was so busy getting things done that she forgot to turn her heart over to the Lord. Fortunately for her she had the actual Lord to let her know what she was doing wrong!
Lord, help us to put the things of non importance aside and always keep our hearts open to You. Help us to embrace Martha's servitude and Mary's heart.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Holiness through laundry
While enjoying my two hour plane delay on the way to Florida I read an interesting article in the St. Anthony Messenger. It was an article about St. Hunna who is known solely as the 'Holy Washer Woman'. What?! The story says that St. Hunna was of a higher social standing and washed the clothes of the poor. I guess I could consider my life and St. Hunna's life as one in the same... pre-canonization of course. I often feel that I should be getting mani-pedi's but instead I am resigned to washing juice stained shirts. I envision a personal masseuse but instead I am attempting to match socks that may never have even had a mate in the first place.
But there is something heart warming about knowing that our beautiful Church recognizes the holiness of a woman who is only known for washing clothes. What love she must have shared with the community with every shirt and pant she washed. And even more amazing is knowing that sanctity can be obtained through such a mundane task. This in itself is a moms dream as this information lets us know that all our efforts with laundry, dishes, etc. will not be unnoticed. We can be saints through our washing machine. The secret is doing so with love in our hearts; knowing that all things can be done for the greater glory of God.
Of course, this is the part that I forget: to 'wash in love'. Maybe it's time to put a picture of Jesus next to the washing machine. Then I can keep my eyes on Christ no matter what may be doing.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Year of the Priest and our little ones
A good friend gave me this site.....
Great ways to incorporate The Year of Priests and activities for our little ones!
Great ways to incorporate The Year of Priests and activities for our little ones!
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Great Catholic Book Giveaway
Check out this great giveaway from Frugal Catholic Mom! Frugal Catholic Mom is giving away three Catholic books from Emmaus Road Publishing:
1. Courageous Virtue
2. Courageous Love
3. The Unchanging Heart of the Priesthood
Enter here!
1. Courageous Virtue
2. Courageous Love
3. The Unchanging Heart of the Priesthood
Enter here!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Catholicism in our homes
A few months back I wanted to find out how you amazing moms incorporate Catholicism into your daily lives. I got a great response and wanted to share it here. Bringing Catholicism to the front lines of the family isn't always easy amidst sports events, school requirements, and basic life. But regardless we all know how crucial it is to immerse our kiddos in the faith, now. Check out these great ideas from other moms just like you and implement them into your own lives!
If you would like to contribute any additional ways just blog me and I will post those as well! Thanks!
Sharon from ‘The Birds Nest’ shares:
- Our main way of spreading the Catholic tradition to our kids is in our everyday life.
- In our home we have a crucifix hung in each room.
- They have Catholic children's books. They have a kids' rosary. They see us pray the rosary. - We pray grace before each meal, and attend Mass together (usually ;).
- I am taking my boys to Living Stations for the 1st time.
- My oldest will also be attending out parish school in the fall.I like that because he will gain more friends of the same faith.
- That's probably my biggest thing: surrounding them with other Catholics. Not that it's the ONLY type of people we interact with. But we do have some good Catholic friends in the area, and it's good for our boys to see other kids doing the same thing.
NP from "Coffee Stained Mama" shares:
- We're expecting our first in August, and I've already been thinking about how to share our faith with him. I've been looking online and in Catholic catalogs for good Catholic toys and things, he'll have a Crucifix in his nursery (along with a statue of the Holy Family).
- I think, at least at first, it'll be us living our faith. My husband and I pray together before bed every night, so when Wyatt comes along, we'll make sure he's there, as well, from the very beginning. We attend Mass on the weekends (always together), so when Wyatt is born, he'll be there, too.
- As he gets older, we'll have other ways of incorporating our faith into his life (praying the Rosary as a family, studying Scripture and saints together, etc.), but for now, I think the strongest testimony of our faith will be walking the walk.
Ellen from Thrifty and Chic Mom shares:
- I love the kids CD I have by 'The Rennas' it is Catholic music and we often start the day with the song "Good morning Jesus",
- We color religious pages I print out such as saints.
- Another thing is family bedtime prayers.
- These are just a few simple ones but that book you got is full of great suggestions that I use too.
Andrea from "Momma In Flip Flops 2" shares:
- A lot comes from my FAMILIA which is awesome. I have a 3.5 and a 1.5 year old and a baby on the way.A Few Things We Do! -Prayers before bedtime. 3.5 y/o Hail Mary, Our Father and Glory Be with intentions. He knows all three now. 1.5 y/o just a simple Sign of the Cross and Thank you Jesus! She's close to knowing her Sign of the Cross.-Catholic Saints Videos (excellent for 3.5 y/o)
- Prayer before Meals Always.
-A great Children's Rosary DVD (I can get you the exact name) both kids LOVE it.
-Simple prayer books, just bought a Find the Saints Book. More Catholic books in the home the better.
-Rosaries to play with.
-Saying a prayer with them when hearing an ambulance or for daddy at work, various times throughout the day.
-Children's Adoration once a month.
-Coloring books!
I shared:
- I just bought 'The Big Book of Catholic Customs and Traditions'. (Review to come soon!) This book provides different activities for teachers or moms to do with their kiddos.
- We do a Rosary playgroup on Fridays. My little one gets to have a playdate and I get to pray the rosary with my girlfriends. The kids definitely get loud during the rosary but I am sure Mother Mary is smiling down on us.
- Holy Baby DVD's! Love them! (Another Holy Baby DVD giveaway to come soon!) They are Catholic DVD's that provide music, mass parts and so much more for your child.
If you would like to contribute any additional ways just blog me and I will post those as well! Thanks!
Sharon from ‘The Birds Nest’ shares:
- Our main way of spreading the Catholic tradition to our kids is in our everyday life.
- In our home we have a crucifix hung in each room.
- They have Catholic children's books. They have a kids' rosary. They see us pray the rosary. - We pray grace before each meal, and attend Mass together (usually ;).
- I am taking my boys to Living Stations for the 1st time.
- My oldest will also be attending out parish school in the fall.I like that because he will gain more friends of the same faith.
- That's probably my biggest thing: surrounding them with other Catholics. Not that it's the ONLY type of people we interact with. But we do have some good Catholic friends in the area, and it's good for our boys to see other kids doing the same thing.
NP from "Coffee Stained Mama" shares:
- We're expecting our first in August, and I've already been thinking about how to share our faith with him. I've been looking online and in Catholic catalogs for good Catholic toys and things, he'll have a Crucifix in his nursery (along with a statue of the Holy Family).
- I think, at least at first, it'll be us living our faith. My husband and I pray together before bed every night, so when Wyatt comes along, we'll make sure he's there, as well, from the very beginning. We attend Mass on the weekends (always together), so when Wyatt is born, he'll be there, too.
- As he gets older, we'll have other ways of incorporating our faith into his life (praying the Rosary as a family, studying Scripture and saints together, etc.), but for now, I think the strongest testimony of our faith will be walking the walk.
Ellen from Thrifty and Chic Mom shares:
- I love the kids CD I have by 'The Rennas' it is Catholic music and we often start the day with the song "Good morning Jesus",
- We color religious pages I print out such as saints.
- Another thing is family bedtime prayers.
- These are just a few simple ones but that book you got is full of great suggestions that I use too.
Andrea from "Momma In Flip Flops 2" shares:
- A lot comes from my FAMILIA which is awesome. I have a 3.5 and a 1.5 year old and a baby on the way.A Few Things We Do! -Prayers before bedtime. 3.5 y/o Hail Mary, Our Father and Glory Be with intentions. He knows all three now. 1.5 y/o just a simple Sign of the Cross and Thank you Jesus! She's close to knowing her Sign of the Cross.-Catholic Saints Videos (excellent for 3.5 y/o)
- Prayer before Meals Always.
-A great Children's Rosary DVD (I can get you the exact name) both kids LOVE it.
-Simple prayer books, just bought a Find the Saints Book. More Catholic books in the home the better.
-Rosaries to play with.
-Saying a prayer with them when hearing an ambulance or for daddy at work, various times throughout the day.
-Children's Adoration once a month.
-Coloring books!
I shared:
- I just bought 'The Big Book of Catholic Customs and Traditions'. (Review to come soon!) This book provides different activities for teachers or moms to do with their kiddos.
- We do a Rosary playgroup on Fridays. My little one gets to have a playdate and I get to pray the rosary with my girlfriends. The kids definitely get loud during the rosary but I am sure Mother Mary is smiling down on us.
- Holy Baby DVD's! Love them! (Another Holy Baby DVD giveaway to come soon!) They are Catholic DVD's that provide music, mass parts and so much more for your child.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Family Friendly Reality Show... hmmmm
Here is a family friendly REALITY SHOW. Did I just put those words in the same sentence? Yes! Read on:
CatholicTV launches reality series about Catholic familiesWASHINGTON (CNS) --
CatholicTV, a television ministry of the Boston Archdiocese, is venturing into the realm of reality programming. In September, the network will launch its new series, "House+Home." Hosted by Father Robert Reed, director of CatholicTV, the show profiles Catholic families. Each episode of the show features a different family and offers a glimpse into their everyday life. The families share with Father Reed their personal stories and their expressions of faith. Although the series is slated to begin in September, CatholicTV aired the pilot episode of "House+Home" June 1. The episode featured the Massachusetts family of Michael and Laura Richard. The Richards have four children, including a set of triplets.
In a July 1 interview with Catholic News Service, Laura Richard said her family was asked to appear in the show by Father Reed, who periodically celebrates Mass at St. Bonaventure Parish in Manomet, Mass., where the Richards' oldest daughter is an altar server. Richard said there was a "very long list of reasons" why her family agreed to be featured in the show's pilot. "We really loved the idea of the show, the idea that it showed Catholic families," she stated.
Taken from Catholic News Service
CatholicTV launches reality series about Catholic familiesWASHINGTON (CNS) --
CatholicTV, a television ministry of the Boston Archdiocese, is venturing into the realm of reality programming. In September, the network will launch its new series, "House+Home." Hosted by Father Robert Reed, director of CatholicTV, the show profiles Catholic families. Each episode of the show features a different family and offers a glimpse into their everyday life. The families share with Father Reed their personal stories and their expressions of faith. Although the series is slated to begin in September, CatholicTV aired the pilot episode of "House+Home" June 1. The episode featured the Massachusetts family of Michael and Laura Richard. The Richards have four children, including a set of triplets.
In a July 1 interview with Catholic News Service, Laura Richard said her family was asked to appear in the show by Father Reed, who periodically celebrates Mass at St. Bonaventure Parish in Manomet, Mass., where the Richards' oldest daughter is an altar server. Richard said there was a "very long list of reasons" why her family agreed to be featured in the show's pilot. "We really loved the idea of the show, the idea that it showed Catholic families," she stated.
Taken from Catholic News Service
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Fulton Sheen
My mom asked for some DVD's by Fulton Sheen for Mothers Day this past year. With that I was introduced to the amazing world of Bishop Sheen. First spoken in 1953 through a radio show now his words are written in many books. One of those books is 'Life is Worth Living'.
I have been reading it for a few days now and I really love it.
Some of the awesome quotes from the book:
" The most bored people in life are not the underprivileged but the overprivileged." Hmmmm.
"Man wants three things; life, knowledge and love".
"When are we most happy? When we do that for which we are made.... then there is thrill and romance to life" What is it that you were made to do? Does it make you happy?
"By meditating on how God humbled Himself to become a man and then died to save us, we become like little children in the spiritual sense, and the world becomes so big, so romantic, so full of mystery."
"When a child is given to his parents, a crown is made for that child in Heaven, and woe to the parents who raise a child without consciousness of that eternal crown!" Wow.... that is such an amazing statement!
In regard to Communism "The revolution must begin in man before it begins in society".
I just love the Bishops keen sense of humor and the agelessness of his comments. He captures the heart of man and explains how to grow closer to God through our humanness. He recognizes human weakness and shares how we are made strong in the Lord. He calls a spade a spade and doesn't dance around fact or fiction. He is aware of the rules of Mother Church and calls each one of us to respond with open hearts and arms.
More to come!
Bishop Sheen, pray for us!
Friday, July 24, 2009
Something to think about
I got this from http://mommaf8.stblogs.com/. Definitely makes you think. Definitely makes me sad. Pray!!
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