The Keeper of the Keys: Guard Their Hearts, Guard Their Lives

This just in about Gardasil! Do not hurt your children.

The Keeper of the Keys: Guard Their Hearts, Guard Their Lives

Having Some Fun On My PC

click on pics to enlarge, if you dare.

This is a rosary I broke apart (it was broken in a few places and missing some purple/lilac beads) so I can fix it for a friend of mine who attends daily Mass (I go when I can, he works on post here). Anyway, the plan is to switch out the OF beads with the new black ones and re-link the whole thing. Problem is, I bought too small pins to re-link. I placed an order (with some add-ons, of course!) and should have this completed by the weekend. He is going to give it to his daughter. I have my doubts about how it will look (those black crystal beads are beautiful and have a gold shine to them in the light - so it can mesh with the finished project - he says he knows his girl will love it - I said we should get some white crystal beads). I'll show the finished rosary when it's done (then, I hope folks will blog honest opinions; especially those of you who make rosaries).

Here's a peek at what my girl has been doing rather than write her book report. Geesh! She is really good at making the tiny stuff.

Material for the next project I'd like to start today (cutting out and pinning, maybe a bit of stitching). Finished project may be one of my Pay-It-Forwards (as the idea that the year is coming to an end faster than I think is starting to haunt me a bit . . . and believe me, given room to procrastinate, I will!).

The black-haired one is a gift for my friend. I hope she likes it. I hope she doesn't come 'round my blog and see it, but I may not have time tonight or tomorrow to get to posting it . . . many errands to take care of tomorrow. The other doll is the one I made Teenie way back when.

Here's what Hols thinks about all this:

Squirrel Boy was the least interested in having a dog . . . the litter before Hols he was very interested and begged constantly about buying one. Then, he was set on not having one. When she came and the first bits of struggles with her and I would say "maybe we should get her a new home" he would holler out, "NO! I LOVE her!!!" Well, we all do. She's a keeper.

The best thing about this pic is Squirrel Boy joining in! Please, forgive the jumble of my mess!

My throne. I know, it's not glamourous, but it's mine. But not for long. I will claim the new chair and ottoman once we settle in Hawaii. With the three new pillows I got for it!

Hols begging me to finish with the praying already and pay attention to her! Teenie is very patient and takes a.lot.of. pictures. I waited longer to upload the pics from her camera than to write this post. Do you know how many are of just the BLEEP dog???? Now, she's got like twenty of her Harry Potter town she made out of Lego's on it. My suggestion, though. She will have to break them down for the move. She has - after she took detailed pictures. She worked on them a long time . . . the "set" was on her floor for AGES and ages. I'm sad she's sad about them going away, but I am GLAD glad glad glad that they are off the floor! Now maybe she'll vacuum in there.

That Is The Question

To Tweet or not to Tweet?

I have mulled over joining in on the Twittering, but I haven't looked into it as of yet. I'm assuming it is like FaceBook in a sense (although terribly limiting in consonants and no pictures etc.). I tried FB for a little less than a week, because my siblings are doing it and they asked me to. It was fun for me after I was "accepted" by a few people . . . then I decided it wasn't for me, because I had to ask myself if I wanted to be that open with that many people. I know, you accept people and only they can read along . . . but . . . it was a strange concept and there's no filtering out swearing and crudeness (of which there was some). I quit.

I can't imagine who would Tweet me back, for starters.

And, I'm already so addicted to this blogging stuff, joining up with something else PC-related would really cramp my life even more. I've had to limit my being on here according to what gets accomplished each day. I do not take one full day to clean my house top to bottom, but I give each day certain tasks so that it's balanced and rotating. Also, it happens that when I do have people over, it gets a good once-over. If the kids need me with schooling processes, I lay aside time for that. I basically follow Jimminy Cricket's MO: let your conscience be your guide.

I'm going to continue thinking about Twitter. But, I won't be thinking too hard.

I'm going to upload pictures in another post either tonight or tomorrow. Remember that "thing" I made? I'm getting ready to make another one using different stock. Show and Tell later.

What have you been up to lately? Doing anything crafty?

What the Church Teaches About Sex *Book Review*

http://www.catholiccompany.com/catholic-books/1004028/What-Church-Teaches-About-Sex-Gods-Plan-Happiness
What the Church Teaches About Sex, God's Plan For Happiness by Robert L. Fastiggi is an every man's/every woman's book about the nature of sex through the lens of Catholic teaching. Let me tell you, the Catholic lens is quite forgiving, understanding, informative, and charitable. Catholic teaching is good moral teaching in a world gone wild. The author gives background on the historical teachings of sexuality and even touches on the story of St. Augustine's struggles with sexuality. What I like about his book is that A) it's clear and precise WHY certain sexual situations are sinful, and, B) that the Church is reasonable and compassionate in its response and treatment of the sin involved. God's generosity cannot be outdone in assisting us in difficult, weak moments. Even if you do not personally have a "problem", you can learn about today's largest problems with sex (pornography, masturbation, homosexuality, fornication and cohabitation, and, marital chastity) to help a friend, a sibling, a parent, or in fact, your own children (age appropriateness considered). We all recognize the media as a culprit in introducing and indoctrinating society into believing that self-gratification at any cost is acceptable, and, the school curriculum are not any help either. We are constantly bombarded with sexual images and sound at every turn. It is difficult in this world to live a pure and chaste life, but it is not impossible.

The last chapter is one of my favourite, because it touches on the different states of life and how one can live out that state in sexual purity. I also appreciate that throughout the book, the author points out to the reader that the Church is compassionate in that She understands that temptations exist, and, She offers healing through Confession and Reconciliation.

Published by Our Sunday Visitor, I recommend this book for those interested in social study, as well as those who would rather have a private study on just exactly why the Church thinks She knows it all and find out that really, She does! And, She has an answer for those who are desiring full relationship with God.

You can purchase this book at Catholic Company. Click "Catholic Company" to the left here or click on the side bar link (picture). They are having a great sale at the moment. Check them out!

Okay, 'Nough About "Twitlight"

If you love embroidery and would love a chance at winning something handmade by an earthly angel, click on my side bar this lovely picture and comment there to enter.

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Now, I have been given an award from Brandie. She's hifreakin'hilarious (to take a word from Crescat). Thank you, Brandie! I'm glad I bother to scroll over and visit other blogger's blog list (thanks to Therese, I found your blog).

Neno's Award, "is dedicated to those who love blogging and love to encourage friendships through blogging and seeks to find the reasons why we all love blogging."
Each person who receives the award is obliged to show thanks by posting the award on his/her blog, giving a shout out to the person who gave the award, pass it on, and to answer the following question: "Why do you love blogging?"

I don't know if I "love" blogging, but I sure like it. Why? It's journaling, sharing, and learning all rolled into one. Take it or leave it, blogging is a great laugh. It's fun to read other's people's thoughts, lives, and share advice, get good read tips, etc..

I would like to give this award to all of you on my sidebar. I'd hate to leave anyone out - and I'm too dern lazy to do any more links in this post! Congratulations!

I Kept Waiting For It To Get Better

. . . but I'd rather have had a good kick up the arse.

I'll read just about anything (except Dan Brown - I have resisted his books since day one and still have no interest; still, I cannot say one way or the other if they are good or not). Now that I have read the first two books by Stephanie Meyer I will say she can write well enough and the story is okay. I'm pissed off that I've read over a thousand pages of "his cold hand touched me, his cold lips were cold" - duh! He's an undead. He's cold! I can't stand Bella - what a dumdum! She calls her parents by their first names, and, it's all about her. Typical of today's self-love climate.

Of course, I know she wrote these for high school girls. I tell you what. If I were a high school girl, I would feel insulted. I like to have books that go deeper than the surface, which is what modern writing isn't. I don't think Edward is romantic at all. I guess he would be handy to have around now that I'm starting to have mild hot-flashes, though.

Also, I don't care if any of my readers like the book. This is only my opinion. And, please, if you liked them, it is fine by me. I'm not calling anyone a dumdum for liking them or reading them. I love to read and I keep holding out for modern literature to grow up a bit and give me something like Jane Austin, Tolstoy, and Dickens. Even Steinbeck - love Steinbeck. I have run across my standards every now and again. If you want to read something really good, read "A Thousand Splendid Suns" or "Three Cups of Tea". Pleasant surprises . . . books I will read again. I read two books by Emily Giffin recently as well (Baby Proof and Love the One Your With). Easy to read, but written to be easily read. Reading that stuff drives me crazy. I do not want to read about the fluff - sex before marriage, after marriage how lonely and unfulfilled she is, he cheats, she cheats, they make up and live in Manhattan (what's so great about that?), and . . . on and on. Am I the only one that notices that many of these books sell like wildfire? They should be shelved with the romance paperbacks - they're all that awful. And, are all their author's living in Atlanta?

Sorry, Edward, but I'm dumpin' your bloody arse.

God's Gift To Me Today

These pictures were taken last year when Fr. Leo came to visit our chapel and give a talk about the Mass. He also signed some of his Grace Before Meal books (I highly recommend it!). Anyway, I took Squirrel Boy in for his eye exam and who was there? Fr. Leo! How exciting! He chatted with us a bit and went for his exam. After his exam he stopped by and blessed us on his way out. How nice is that, that God should send this good and holy priest to bless us? How wonderful, indeed!

Totally made my day.

Happy Birthday

My friend, whom I'll refer to as "J", is celebrating her birthday today. I only found out about it yesterday so I ran off to Michaels to get some origami papers, thinking I'd make some cards for her. I also bought a kit that teaches SMART people how to fold and make origami people in kimono's. I am a little on the DAFT side, so I got only so far before I threw my arms up in the air and declared myself defeated. I spied my other crafty bits in the room and decided upon another project, and completed moments ago . . . and I'll have to share in a few days time because she reads this blog and I want it to be a surprise! If I do say so myself, it's the best of these I've made, too.

Teenie is enjoying learning new folds an origami since last night. The papers don't go to waste here. She taught me how to make a lotus bowl. Its folds are similar to the crane, which I can make. Teenie can make very teenie tiny origami. The smallest she made was probably 2cm by 2cm at the most - a wee tiny thing: cicada. She keeps her tiny things in a mirrored container. It's like she rubbed her fingers together and magically she opens them to reveal these itty bitty things.


So, I need to get cleaned up and run out to join some other gels painting stuff at the chapel this morning. Boxes. It could be fun, because I like to paint. However, if my tummy doesn't settle down, I'm not going to be able to go anywhere. And, let's hope I do not forget to pick up Squirrel Boy for his eye exam . . . that had slipped my mind entirely as I saw him off this morning. "See you at 1:15 then," says he. I ask, "Why? Is it early dismissal today?" He looked at me like he was trying to assess whether I was joking with him or actually every bit as much of a ding-a-ling I sounded. "My eye appointment, mom," he reminds. "Oh, yeah. I'll see you then, " I reply, feeling like crawling back into bed. Getting up before 9am is for the birds!

Swept Up In the Popular Genre . . . Help Me!

Twilight and what I think about it. Yes, I read the first book last night. Even though my right eye was having issues with an allergic reaction of some kind (I think with the window open and the quick moving blustering storm, something must have blown into it). Ever try to read with an eye distraction? Not pleasant. But, I wanted to finish reading this book. And, I did, a little after 2am.

Quick assessment: It took about the first 200 pages to get Edward and Bella "together". I realize in the first book, the author has the daunting task to make sure we "get" her idea of vampire legend. She did okay, but I think she could have brought us all up to speed a lot faster than 200 or so pages. I did not like all the references to Edward being angelic or singing like an archangel. I think god also came into some kind of descriptions of him. Let's just say, the author knows how to reveal a teenage girls bottomless, foolish love for a guy who is all wrong for her, even when she knows it. Girls, don't we always know when a guy is all wrong for us?

Something I find all too common in our contemporary books today: They promise us a thrill with 500-plus pages and get us hooked at somewhere between 1-200 pages (depending upon how great a writer they are) and, we find ourselves really liking the story, maybe sympathizing with the characters . . . the closer we get to the end of the book . . . well, it's like this: you are running uphill - and it's starting to beat you, but you are getting closer to the prize, but when you get there the prize is not there; just a brief rush that most of the questions are answered and now you have to jump off the cliff 'cos there is no going back; book 2 is awaiting you and it's a long way down. Why such a long way down? Because you fear it's going to dump your arse over another hill after you trudge (and maybe enjoy) through the next 500 pages. Not only that, but we have to be reminded constantly in book two what happened in book one . . . a never ending message from the writer/publisher that they think I'm a cognitive-less, dumdum. Thanks!

The series books tend to do that. They never end the story so there's always another book to bother with. But, you like the characters . . . . and they have unrequited love and other novel bits of reader hooks and snares that keep you interested just enough . . .

So, I get that Edward is enticing - but I don't really get it. He's a damn vampire. There is nothing to love. What is the attraction? Most women want to be loved like that by the men in their lives (well, perhaps to a certain extent, 'cos I don't think Chief can lift a car off of me if I happen to be in its path). What is real about the story, though, (and is all to creepy in its reality) is the extent to how far some girls will go when loving a boy that is all wrong for them . . . and endangering their family in the process, because they are too self-absorbed to think their actions through BEFORE they act.

Something I did enjoy about the book (and what initially drew me in): it is based in my home state. I stomped through Forks and Port Angeles. We also would go to other places that were rumored to be 'haunted' . . . the vampire and ghost stories are quite appealing when you're a teenager. When I was a teenager, I chose to read Anne Rice's vampire novels. I loved them, rich as they are in history and such. I did not care for Queen of the Damned so much, but I can't remember why. The point mentioning this? They are a lot better than this series already!

On a purely fantasy level for reading: I give this book a B. Do I let Teenie read it? I'd prefer she wait until she's in high school. As of now, she still enjoys the Potter books, which I give an A to for many reasons (well-written, engaging 100% of the time, I never feel like I have to buy the next book in a panic to finish the story). If she can stay away from mindless reading like this, I don't care if she reads Potter into her twenties. I guess, I just wish writers today would put out one really good book in one volume - stop wasting my time and my money. I think after I read book two, I may feel the same. But, I'll letcha all know. I keep telling Teenie that when she wants to read a real romance novel, read Pride and Prejudice.

In the mean time, I have to say that it does not help that Hollywood decided to make films of these books using an attractive (to some, not me; I don't like his eyebrows), young gent to play Edward . . . oh, yeah. And, he's English and that accent is la-la-la ding-dong-la delish! Give me a break. Do you know what an English dude said to me when I gushed like a horny idiot into a phone how I loved his accent? "We ALL sound like this over here, love." Yup, they sure do, and they all don't look like Edward, I know! I fancied Orlando Bloom for a while before I realized that I was drooling like a teenager when I was supposed to be a-drooling only for my Chief. I have my head (and heart) on straight these days, thank God.

All this gushing over Edward is unhealthy on so many levels. The poor actor is being sexualized and abused in many a woman/teens mind. He is being used. Keep that in mind when you think Edward (you are probably visualizing the actor at this point). Sick cycle. I can't tell (100% of the time) if they are talking about the actor or Edward - know what I mean? It is like the two have become one. No distinctions.

I think Orlando Bloom is a B actor. He was brilliant as Leggy, but his other films he just . . . I don't believe him. You know? Many people have blogged and said that this films acting was not that great . . . but because they read the books and are ga-ga over Edward they forgive it. I see a pattern here: take a so-so story, make it a film, make lots of money without any effort. Use good looking passable actors. Millions! No one can make Edward be anyone other than that actor now . . . and everyone wants to read the books . . .

How come I caved? Because so many bloggers I read and come across blog about it. And, I hear about it from so many folks I finally caved. I admit I had a thing for vampires in my youth. I watched "Lost Boys" more often than I can count. I still think Kiefer Sutherland is handsome! And, really, "Lost Boys" is still a better film, I'll bet, than "Twilight".

If I come away from New Moon feeling any differently, I'll blog about it. For now, don't count on another review. I mean, I hate to eat my words, but I'm usually a pretty good judge about this sort of thing. The story is okay. I'll bet Meyer could have put the story into one thick bound book. If Margaret George can cram Cleopatra into the massive volume she did (and she did it with King Henry VIII, too), the same can be done for Bella and Edward. Just think about being able to read their story in one concise volume without all the "reminders" of what happened previously.

The utter idea!

P.S. my terlits still await Mr. Clean (I mean, me). Really, reading was more fun that doing that, but I really need to clean them today. New Moon is going to have to wait. Really. I think after reading volume one, I can hold back on volume two.

That Was Awesome

It's topping out at about 88 degrees here and all the sudden, I hear a crack and hear low rumblings . . . my window is open where I sit and I'm reading something I daren't say anything about at the moment. Nothing nasty! Just something I said I wouldn't be caught dead reading and now I am and so far, I'm not sorry! Geesh! Maybe I'll fess up later, but in the mean time, I'm smelling the sweet rain (downpour more like) and feeling the air cooling a bit as it caresses my cheeks behind my book. The sun is still shining and now that the pouring is done, the kids are making their way back out from under the eaves of their homes . . . jumping in the puddles. I love having a bedroom window up so high where I can watch what's going on out in the world on my street.

I'm going to miss it, but I'm welcoming the new adventure.

Christ, You Know It Ain't Easy

You know how hard it can be . . . the way things are goin', they're gonna crucify me. (From the ballad of John and Yoko). This is humiliating work, cleaning terlits. I know exactly what I'll be doing in Purgatory, should I be so blessed. Oy vey!

I only write this stuff so I get this other stuff done. Accountability. I'm sure St. Peter won't ask me if I cleaned the terlits today, but wouldn't it be funny if he did? He could so totally pull my leg on that. And, when I laugh, all the angels will say, "Oy! Pete! You lettin' that cacklin' gel in here?" Heaven will be fun, I think!

Under My Own Steam

Here's something rumbling about in my noggin' that I thought I would share - regardless of my saying stick a fork in me. I mean, really, do stick a fork in me . . . but, I'm stressed out so I had to say "ciao" to this crazy blog for the weekend . . . then this stuff and I had to share! I'm an addict and need intervention. But, anyway, I share because I feel the Holy Spirit wants me to put this out there. SO what about the dishes getting done and all that? It's the Lord or it's the Lord! I'm learning this lesson constantly. God bless!

Now, who on earth is ever going to say to God, "No, Lord, let me do it?" Uff da! The thought!

However, we are all at fault for behaving that way to God one time or another. If it's habitual, there is really a problem. I am writing these words for all of us to think about how we treat The One (God, not Obama, duh!) Who gave us everything.

In reading the reflection in In Conversation with God by Francis Fernandez (volume 2) for the second week of Easter - Friday, I stumbled across another nugget of wisdom. Let's visit the passage from Acts 5:38-39. So in the present case I tell you, keep away from these men and let them alone; for if this plan or this undertaking is of men it will fail; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You might even be found opposing God!

This clearly means: God wins. You better pick your side.

Then the reflection talks about the five loaves and the five thousand being fed. The Lord asks us to give to Him what we have. It may be very little, it may be more than others, but to give it is the work needed to generate His power. We can hand him the little we have (five loaves, our daily life, simple prayer, suffering in silence . . . ) as He is counting on us to will it into His service for the blessings to occur. The whole premise is to not wait until you have means or not, but to do something and give something. God can do wondrous things with nothing (the nothingness of our being - even if we feel our nothingness is meaningless, it is not). Our nothing is our surrender and surrendering is a big gift of trust and faith.

St. Josemaria Escriva (from Furrow, 123): Do you see? With him you could do it. Why are you surprised? Be convinced: there is nothing to be surprised about. If you trust in God - really trust - things work out easily. And, what is more, you always go further than you imagined you could.

It is good and right that you should work things out . . . but put God first in the equation. You can count on being blessed.

Stick This In Me

I'm "done" for the weekend. Be back Monday. Y'all have a brilliant weekend, ya hear?

IKEA

What does it feel like to buy new furniture? It's knackering.

We went to College Park Ikea to get our new living room furniture this morning. I actually found a solid wood coffee and end table set (light brown finish; can repaint it if we change our mind on the colour later), sofa, chair, ottoman, and a love seat (husband said we should get it; I was trying to save money - surprised he actually wanted to add it on) and a different bookcase than we originally spied. I wanted the white four by four cubicle shelf ($159), but after we chose our coffee table and end tables, that bookcase in white, black or pine colour wouldn't work. So, the bookcase my husband pointed out is the one we got and it belonged in the same family as the tables. Solid wood - good way to go as you can re stain and paint it any colour (I wanted to go white, but whatever). The chair and ottoman are in dark navy and the sofa and love seat are beige. Delivery tomorrow. The other stuff we brought home with us.

I can't wait to use it, but won't be able to until we move in somewhere in Hawaii. It will be in our garage, then crated, then shipped via a ship, and then warehoused . . . finally in our "home" and I'll be able to christen it all properly when I get to sit on it. I can't wait! The stuff we have now has been projectile vomited on by the eldest, peed on by all three, puked on by all of us (I think), dogged on (dog went wee on it), cat haired, and other things for fifteen years. We have never owned a coffee table - or matching end tables. This is a BIG deal.

So I forget the drum teacher is coming. She's here now, but I'm embarrassed as we were not prepared. On our part, we all forgot! Thankfully, we are home from Ikea already . . . I would have felt far more embarrassed had we not been here.

I have so much to do . . . and I so love my husband, because he said to me, "Don't worry about stuff being everywhere when your guests come to dinner tomorrow, because we're moving and they know that and they're all in the same boat we're in." Nice reminder. I'm not fretting near as much 'cos he said that.

The plan is to put clean sheets on my bed, finish up a few loads of laundry, clean the 1/2 bathroom downstairs (so they have a sterile - it's already clean - seaty should they needy it while here), and vacuum. I so much just want to sit and work on my stitchery, but I cannot. We have a dinner to go to tonight. I have three hours to get all this done. I have very little time tomorrow to bother so . . . I best get busy.

The sun is out and the temperature is creeping steadily up toward seventy. The next three days it's said it's going to be in 85! Hurrah!

Crazy 8's

Thanks Sarah for the tag! Here goes nothin':


8 Things I'm Looking Forward To:
#1 moving to Hawaii
#2 going to bed tonight (I'm absolutely knackered)
#3 going to IKEA tomorrow to buy (at least) a sofa, chair, ottoman, and a bookcase (not "sold" on the coffee and end tables there)
#4 traveling to Stockbridge, MA, soon to see the National Divine Mercy Shrine
#5 making dinner (for those going to the shrine in May) here in my home on Friday
#6 pulling out my cross stitch and actually working on it tonight/tomorrow
#7 getting my AM/PM Yoga DVD
#8 last, but not least, and not in a particular hurry for: Heaven

8 Things I Did Yesterday:
#1 woke up
#2 had coffee (two cups hot, one grande frap from Starbucks)
#3 went to the mall with my girl
#4 took a mile (or so) walk with my younger two kids
#5 prayed - a lot!
#6 went to the damn grocery store - again! - and it thundered and poured on me on the way out!
#7 sat here way too long
#8 realized how mundane my life really is, actually, and this meme really hammers it home, thank you. (smile)

8 Things I Wish I Could Do:
#1 swim
#2 lose 30 pounds (2.5 stone - a bit more like 35 pounds then) instantly
#3 eat Belgian choccies all day w/out any negative recourse to my body or health
#4 Algebra
#5 ballroom dance
#6 feed the hungry around the world
#7 see my family more often
#8 travel the world

8 Shows I Watch:
#1 Lost (although, this is pretty much whenever I think about it and I find it online)
#2 Scrubs
#3 Myth Busters
#4 John and Kate Plus 8
#5-#8 I have nothing for you. The above are rarely seen by me as I just feel telly is a time sucker when I could be doing other things. I really see pretty much what my hubs or kids turn on and often just snippets while I read or craft, cook and clean. I've never been a big fan of the telly.

8 I smite (bless) with this meme:
ukok
cathy
cassie
amy
mimi
brandie
jennifer
suz

Geesh!

The one thing I went to shop on Amazon for is not going to be in the box that is now on it's way to me. Go freakin' figure!

The yoga DVD was "in stock" when I ordered it so I can't figure out for the life of me why on earth it is not in the box coming. If I had ordered it alone, I'm sure it would be on it's way. I decided to add-on so I could claim free shipping. I realize that means that the ordered items may come in separate shipments. I guess their books and DVD's are in separate areas of the warehouse or in different warehouses all together. But! Doesn't it just waste their time in the long run? Well, I didn't believe I would be getting a shipment notification less than 24 hours later on any of the items, so I am happy about that! I did not need the two books I ordered, but I got them anyway. Here's why: I'm diggin' the In Conversation With God for Lent/Easter. So, I decided to get the next one (Ordinary time - maybe 13 weeks of it, there are more books in the series I plan on getting one at a time); and, Fire Within (because I keep reading snippets on other blogs that speak highly of this book . . . ).

Currently, I am reading a book to review for Catholic Company. I hope to read/review it by end of next week. My primary focus this week is to make sure the younger two finish their school year.

When we get to HI in June, we will be in an hotel for a few days before we locate a rental to live in for X amount of time (6-9 months?) before we're offered and can accept housing. There is a housing list we must sign up for once we arrive. I know, it's crazy, but it's a crazy we are used to even if we're not crazy about it! It could be a year before we get into the housing (gov't) that we are aiming to get into. What does this mean? Sadly, that when we finally have all of our belongings on the island and moved into our rental (end of July all our stuff should be there, but we'll be in something long before that) we will have to move.again.Holy.Mother.of.God.and.all.that.is.holy! into said gov't housing. Jolly of jollies! Sorry, but I just have to say a huge "crapola!!" right here. It just needs to be said.

Fortunately, my husband's new sponsor (the other one has retired from the Navy and so) has said she would love to take care of Holly (she has two dogs and a cat herself) - as long as we pay for food . . . come see her regularly . . . Initially, we'll take her up on it. I think. I seriously have trust issues and this move is really cracking me open. It's a good thing. I have not one reason not to trust this lady. I assume with three pets of her own, and offering to keep ours for us, she loves animals. So, based on that, I'm willing to give it a go. I absolutely adore my little Holly (if you haven't guessed it by now). I never thought I would love a dog like I love this girl. I swear it!

Okay. Other than the initial getting there and getting settled, I am looking forward to HI more than I can express here. We know no one there, really, so it will be an adventure figuring it all out. The sponsor can only do/say so much for us, after all. She's another chief in the USN and by what my dh said, I think will be of immense help to us. I'm already thinking about a thank you gift. I know, calm down anyway, dumb***. I can't help it! I like to do things for others, too! My mind goes miles and miles over the speed limit of normal. I hardly get to sleep easily most nights. It's not anxiety per se either. I just get excited about tomorrow before it gets here. I have had stress (acid-reflux, anyone?) over the impending move, but just over some details I have absolutely no control over. Knowing that, I pretty much start to pray when those thoughts start to prey on me. I'll pray. It works.

And I'll eat chocolate.

Note: I just got an email notice: the DVD is now on it's way, too. Hurrah! God and Amazon do want me to lose weight and be flexible!

This Is Neat

click on image to enlarge. it's the T.Merton prayer from my sidebar.
H/T Third Times the Charm blog.

I'm Doing More Than Just Thinking About It

I ordered this DVD upon recommendation of a friend who loves it. I have a yoga mat. I even got a different DVD, but after watching it the first time I was grossed out by some gal who was one of the background participants whose sweat was profuse in some unmentionable areas . . . and sorry, had she worn a white or black 'tard' no one would ever have noticed. I couldn't give it another go. So, my friend said there's none of that in this one and for about $11 on Amazon, I said, "heck yeah!" and bought it.

Let's just say I like the idea of being limber again. I used to be able to put my ankles around my neck. If I were limber, I could do it now (I ain't got a belly keeping me from reaching). After having three kids, I just never got back into sitting on the floor and stretching like I did. My heartburn/acid reflux and being tired nearly most of every day has me decided to kick a health kick into gear. I bet there are many who could outpace me in a mall walk. It's sad!

I hesitate to use Eastern methods, because I want to stay firmly rooted in my Catholic Faith. However, I can ignore any of that - unless it's blatant. I think it's safe to say that it isn't something being pushed in this program. I want to be limber in body, not mind. Right now, as limber as I get is my elbow bending into the cookie jar and snapping back into my gob. Yeah?

Teenie is writing her week 35 paragraph that she will upload to Seton soon. Then, all that she has left today is to upload her reading comprehension test for quarter four. Tomorrow she will take her English quarter four exam. Friday, her book report is due to be uploaded to Seton. Then, guess what? She's officially done with 7th grade! This is a really big deal here. Crickles is finishing up his book report today and tomorrow he will take his English quarter four exam, and, he'll be done with 5th grade!

Folks, ugh. Can we all say, Praise God, here? Yes! Victory is soooooooo bloody close I can taste it!

Our Visiting Franciscan Priest . . .

I am pulling all of this from the top of my head . . . . or rather, the deep recesses of my memory, which, sadly, is not what it used to be and I am seriously considering investing in Brainiac games, Sudoku and such things . . . but I keep forgetting.

Father's homily. Yes. I have to say I was kicking myself for not going to the 9am Mass as well yesterday, even though I was going to be at the other chapel from 1pm to God knows how long for the Divine Mercy Mass. I really like going to Mass, which really makes me scratch my head because I wonder why I cannot seem to get to daily Mass . . . it never fails that I start off well and then LIFE gets in the way so to speak. Ah, well. The good Lord knows my heart . . . perhaps when I am in Hawaii and the kids are in school I can attend then. Blessed hope!

Father said he had no idea what he was going to say to us, as he regularly gives the 9am Mass at a rest home. Most of his parishioners are so old they are deaf, blind, infirm, short on short term memory and so on. He said that there was one lady who advised him to preach what he preached to them "this morning" so he followed up with this query: "What did you like about today's homily"? She said, "I don't remember, but it was so good!" And, I'm thinking: shite, I'm already that elderly forgetful dear! So. He then told us about an elderly lady who had wanted a priest to come out and give Eucharist to her home-bound daughter. The elderly lady was quite a joyful soul and brought him into her home and introduced him to her daughter. Her daughter was an invalid, could not speak, and only communicated by blinking once to mean yes, twice to mean no. In his prejudice, he believed she could not know who he was, what he did, and what he was saying. The mother asked her daughter, was she glad Father was here with them? The daughter blinked once. After a long while, he asked her if she was ready to receive Jesus and the mother said, "Oh, no, Father! She needs confession first! I'll just run along into the kitchen so she can confess." Bewildered, he watched her go and then returned his gaze to the girl. He began confession and the girl began to cry. Just tears streaming from her eyes. After a time, he said it was time for absolution and the mother cried out from the kitchen, "Oh, she's not done yet!" So, he sat and let her finish. She continued to cry for a time and he asked her, "Are you done?" She blinked once. Yes, she was done. He gave her absolution. He asked her if she was ready to receive Our Lord? She blinked and blinked and blinked excitedly!

Essentially, we all know the Lord when we see Him, when we experience Him. Don't we? We all ought to know when the Lord is calling our name.

The priest also taught us how to sign Jesus' name. Simply, put your hands out in front of you, place your middle finger of your right hand and poke it in the center of your left hand; then, poke the middle finger of your left hand into the palm of your right hand. That's His name in sign.

We all ought to know His name.

During Mass, when we were supposed to "grin and greet" (okay, it's the greeting before the Our Father, I just can't remember what it's called for St. Peter'sake!), he said we weren't going to do that. Instead, he asked us to pray for those whom we haven't spoke with or forgiven, who may not have forgiven us or do not speak to us, but mainly praying for those we have set aside. I liked that very much! We all have someone we marginalize.

Oh, and years ago he was a missionary in Africa. There was a six week language course. It wasn't very useful in the sense that it was more bring to the language person what you think the housekeeper/locals said to you and get it translated. No books, nothing formal. On the day they left, there was a nun from Ireland who complained that it was useless and a waste of time (that class) because she only learned how to say, "Christ have mercy, Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy."

The priest asked us what I ask you, "What more do you really need to say?" Indeed.

For Kissteen . . .

I'm throwing some your cyber way, Kissteen!!

One loaf of banana bread is out of the oven and one more is now baking. The double batch of cookies are next. In between all this, I am managing the kids with their schooling and running loads of laundry. I have vacuumed the living room (under the sofas as well, folks) and I plan on dusting off the telly and the 1932 GM radio in the corner later. I've managed to clear off the island in the kitchen (this "counter" is actually a crap magnet and I would like to thank the dumdums who designed it to go exactly there - too far from the stove or sink to be much of any good for a baker). I kid you not, I could very well say there are five feet between my stove and that useless junk magnet. Okay, I like the storage under it, but other than that, it's just placed weird. At least in my unit there's enough linoleum to put two bar chairs there and not be half on carpet and half on the kitchen floor (like some units around here). I tell you what, some really dingdong people slapped these homes together. Not to mention how weird is it to walk into someones home and the first room be the entry/dining room????

Can you tell I'm ready for something completely different? Hawaii: here we come! I don't care if I have less square feet, as long as it is actually SQUARE feet, and, a normal layout. Geesh!

But, I am happy! I have a roof over my head - and I won't complain about that.

My hubs may take a day off this week so we can go to IKEA and buy our new furniture. I don't think the sofa, chair, and ottoman will be in a box, so we may use those if we get them before the movers come and take them away. However, if they come wrapped in a bunch of plastics etc., we may leave them that way so we get 100% of our cash back if the movers don't deliver.

See, that is a sad fact about military moves. I hate it. I think it's a mere inconvenience to have things stolen and broken; I feel bad about that. But, I hate it that someone who steals is stealing, because I feel bad for them that they stoop that low. They really are only hurting themselves. I can recover from such a horrible thing . . . my replacement may not be as good as what I had originally, but . . . and I know this is what some of these movers think (that we'll be reimbursed, because we will - but not like 100% folks - so it hurts our wallets, too) so they aren't really hurting us or anybody. I think they are hurting their souls first and foremost, but beyond that, they are hurting their reputation and that of the company they are working for. Let's not even go into how they are ripping off insurance carriers. It's bad business all around, but most particularly for their souls.

I will say that we have only had one move (from GA to here) where we had the government contract movers for us. Nothing was missing, nothing broken . . . and on both ends of the packing and unpacking, we had the nicest experience and the nicest folks. I pray for the same with this move.

Okay, back to laundry and cleaning. I pray you are all having productive days, too. I posted a lovely prayer on top of my sidebar (under the Catholic Company banner, I think) from Thomas Merton. I found it today and I just love it!!

Praise

Joining in with Jennifer's Praise! linky . . . Here's some of what I'm hooting about in thanks to God:

1. By Wednesday, my younger two should be absolutely, 100%, finished with their 5th and 7th grade school year!

2. Improvement in my health has been achieved. I am not back to normal just yet, but I'm close and I'm grateful!

3. Our Divine Mercy facilitator's efforts paid off in full for our parish yesterday, as we held a DM Sunday 3pm Mass after an hour long programme of delightful songs, a skit, and the chaplet. The visiting priest's homily was not to be missed! I may summarize his homily later for your enjoyment.

4. He is risen, He is risen indeed!

5. Squirrel Boy is improving in the responsibility department: he's been working on his cognitive learning for Algebra and is making advancements. Regardless of whether this helps him pass the class in the end, the lesson is being learned (i.e. he must do the work to achieve and learn).

6. I'm going to bake banana bread and banana chocolate chip cookies today! Can we all shout out a collective "YUM!"

7. Thank God, thank God, for family. I'm grateful that after all the craziness and independent ideas running amok, we still love each other and that's always what matters - the love for each other.

Divine Mercy Sunday

Eternal God, in whom mercy is endless and the treasury of compassion inexhaustible, look kindly upon us and increase Your mercy in us, that in difficult moments we might not despair nor become despondent, but with great confidence submit ourselves to Your holy will, which is Love and Mercy itself.

St. Faustina, ora pro nobis.

I'm Baking

I just whipped up four batches of simple shortbread. I still need to bake the cookies, but the dough won't be done chilling for a bit. They are so easy. Why am I baking so many? Well, not because I am going to eat all of them. I'm baking them for the Divine Mercy reception tomorrow. Some of them will have drizzled chocolate on them. Yum! I hope I'll get to eat one at the reception.

I still have not done any of my morning prayers. I did go to the DM novena at 3pm, but I really need to do my daily prayers. This is the first time in ages that I've put them off this long. Terrible!

Must make dinner first, then I can bake the cookies between prayers. They get prayed - some times it takes me longer to get around to it. The day has been so pleasant! I went to coffee and breakfast with a friend of mine (her treat, the sweet lady!) I'd never been to Le Madeline's and it was fantastic. Oh, and the sun is out! It's warm!

I'm so bloody happy!

Sunny Saturday

I feel better just knowing that it's my body turning on itself and burning a hole in my pipes rather than it being something terribly serious. I took my first pill yesterday - and honestly, at first, I felt it made it worse! But, this morning, I feel a bit better. I shall take pill two this morning, have a light breakfast, and head out with two friends for coffee (so no coffee at home today). Later, another friend's son is being Confirmed at the Basilica in Baltimore. We will not attend the ceremony, but we are going to the reception this afternoon. I would like to go to the ceremony, but it's too much on the agenda and I'm all about cutting back on the stressers right now. Tomorrow is Divine Mercy Sunday and I am up to my ankles involved in that. I'll be officially installed as a Divine Mercy Apostle. Let's see where this and the Lord leads me, I always say.

Thank you to all who prayed for me, and, continue to do so. I appreciate it immensely.

Thank You, Friends!

Well, apparently I have acid-reflux, but the doc was thinking it could be mild pleurisy . . . we are treating with Zantac (I think that was the name of it). I have read it's not a cure for acid-reflux, but anything to knock it off a bit would be nice. I think the real "cure" is to eat properly and not stress over stupid stuff (I eat okay, I rarely exercise, and I'm stressed over the move). I'm going to walk daily now, eat better, and pray/meditate more. I'll take the pills for ten days and if they work, great, but that's all I'm committed to. Oh, and reducing my coffee consumption to two cups a day. No more than that. Dawn, I hope that makes you proud!

Can I Ask You To Pray For Me?

Since Tuesday I have had this obnoxious (and I mean obnoxious) pain in the center of my chest (right in the sternum area) straight through to my back between the shoulders. It hurts a bit more when I breathe deeply or when I shift from one side to the other when going to sleep . . . when I move my upper body - but always in the same place, no pain radiating anywhere else, no other symptoms. I checked WebMD to see if I could figure it out on my own. I did have that horrid 12 week cold and still have a bit of a cough so I think it may be 'pleurisy' - but I don't know. I'm pretty sure I'm not walking about having an heart attack. I'm seeing a doctor later this morning and will report back here to you all so there's no continued concern. But, I sure would appreciate prayers. Thank you so much and God bless you!

Happy Birthday, Papa!

We love you, we pray for you, we wish you many many years!!

Hodge Podge of Pictures

I've made mention that I like birds and watching them before . . . this cardinal has been coming around our back yard ever since I hung up some suet cages. Pretty cool! This guy is skittish, though!


Galadriel is adjusting well to her new home with friends of ours who took her in. We miss her royal cuteness, but we know this was the best thing for her.

As I was planting a 'ciao' kissy on my sailor, I had to snap a picture of this magnificent sky. Later that day or later in the week, my neighbour showed me some pictures and had similar shots on her camera . . . we thought it was funny we both thought it picture worthy.

Me and my godson. Isn't he delish?

My two girls smoochin'.

Teenie made this cap for Holl's. It took forever to get a pic 'cos she wasn't having it.

This one is for Brandie. I can so relate to pets being family.

And, this one my girl took. It's a postcard from God: He says He loves us. Don't forget it!

Have a blessed week everyone!

Happy 15th Birthday, Squirrel Boy

You are very silly (cut from the same cloth as herself beside you - moi!)

You are everything a Scout should be - and not in equal measures, because you are uniquely you.

God loaned you to me and I feel this more acutely as time passes by and you will finally be old enough to fly from this nest. If I do what is right, and love you with all my heart, I pray you will want to come back to visit me often.

You are the eldest son, my first born. You will always have a special niche in my heart of hearts. I am so proud to be a mother, and to a boy first. It is an awesome blessing to be a mother - and I thank God you have made it easy for me to be your mum. Let me tell you, son, the teen years you are in and the present challenges and those ahead, I promise to always love you and always be here for you; to encourage you, to love you, to correct you, and help you. I promise my prayers, too. My heart simply aches with love for you - that you love yourself, always do the right thing, help others, and never forget God. I ask Mary, Our Mother, to keep watch over you all the days of your life. Happy Birthday, son. I love you very very much.

I Think I'll Have A Bit of A Lie-Down

It's been a long Lent, hasn't it? It was so worth it! Except, as happy as I am, I am beat! I could get used to a bed like this one in an heartbeat! I have much to accomplish this week and I hope to share with all of you something as the week plugs along, however, my main focus is finishing up those wee annoying things with home school and doing a serious "get behind me, Satan dirt" cleaning of this here "ranch" we'll be vacating before long. I just can't handle it if one mover says, "Don't they ever clean this junk-hole?" I would be mortified! So I'll mortify only myself by doing the deep "exercising" around here prior to their arrival.

Have a great week!

Easter Afternoon

I pray you all have been having a blessed Easter Sunday! Easter is a season - as we lead up to Pentecost. How lovely!


I'm currently in my pj's with an apron . . . I'm baking four batches of home made brownies for a gathering later today. I'm trying to squeeze in a shower while the BBQ chops are in the oven baking . . . and I need to throw the spuds in the oven an hour before that. I'm not sure how I will pull it all off . . . because there is the Divine Mercy novena at 3pm (I have the key to the chapel so I am going to be there as folks are counting on me, not just 'cos I want to be there). At 4pm there's a private invite going on, but I may have to be a bit late to that (the brownies are for this function) as I want to run out and see someone first. Fortunately she lives close by (and, she may be at the novena and then no running out will be necessary). In fact, the only thing I really question getting done is our Easter lunch. I will have to ask my darling husband to do something - and I know he loves to help in the kitchen - and I will have to offer up the mess this man will make (if I let him in the kitchen).


I better get those spuds in the oven. They can bake in there whilst the next batch of brownies go in. I'm a good cook and I can bake quite well, but I have a very difficult time getting it all out at the right time.

Last night the Vigil was great. We had about ten getting the trio initiation into the Church and two joining the Church from other denominations. Brilliant! There was a reception following that was perfectly lovely. The ladies I am blessed to work with . . . I can't wait to see the reception Christ has in store for them one fine day. I hope we're all there!



The folks who we gave our cat to have let us know that she is adjusting perfectly well to their home and them. I am so glad! I love that cat, don't get me wrong. I miss her enormously, but in my heart I know this is best for her. The plane ride . . . she would have fallen apart. We'll go visit her soon; after she's had a few more days to warm herself into their lives/hearts and home.

Note: I've been baking and the spuds are in . . . everything is going like clockwork. Amazing! We may have our lunch by 2pm or 2:30pm, just in time to satisfy us . . . go to the novena . . . and attend the "shindig" later. Thank God!

To Christ: our only Hope!

He Is Risen, He Is Risen, Indeed!

Praise God,

for His mercy endures forever!

Praise Christ,

for His love endures forever!

Praise Him,

all ye people!

Give God the glory forever and ever!

Amen.

Holy Saturday

Waiting. Today is about waiting for the Lord. It isn't a day to do much but anticipate - the celebration is tomorrow. Today is an exercise in patience. I can feel my heart beating faster as I realize tomorrow is Easter. We get to celebrate and shout, "He Is Risen, He Is Risen, Indeed!"

Throughout my day of prayer I will do some minor chores so that tomorrow I can be free of worldly pressures and things. I want Easter to be all about thanking Jesus for what he has done for me. About being with my family. Being with HIM at Mass. Celebrating with my Church family this wondrous day.

Today I will work, pray, and wait with joy.

Good Friday

Oh, Mother of Sorrows,
I am wretched with sin.
I have lacked love
in my very complacency
that leadeth me from prayer,
from sacrifice,
from you.
You who loves Her Son,
The Son Who came to save us all,
Whom the world now rejects,
turns away from,
shuns,
denounces.
Oh, Mary, My Mother: I love you!
Help me in my decision
to always love,
to always act in charity,
to pray unceasingly for the world.
Help me sacrifice in union with Him.
Help me cling to all that is good and Holy.
Help me to love Him above all things.
Take this instrument of destruction from me
for with my will I have cut and beaten the Lord!
Move my heart with sorrow and pity!
Help me be faithful to the Father
in my love, as pitiable as it is, for the Son.
Help me be merciful
As He is merciful.

O, Blessed Mother, my Mother!
Ora pro nobis.

Christ, have mercy.

Amen.

composed by herself, Sarah (JOT) on this day 10 April 2009

Carrying the Cross

My God! May I hate sin, and unite myself to you, taking the Holy Cross into my arms, so that I in my turn may fulfil your most lovable Will . . . stripped of all earthly attachment, with no other glory but your glory . . . generously, not keeping anything back, offering myself with you in a perfect holocaust. Josemaria Escriva, loc cit, Ninth Station

Thank you, Mike's Hard Margarita

I'm feeling a little less stressed now that I've had half a cocktail. Nice. I'm no lush, trust me, but I share this because sometimes it's just good to have an adult beverage. Just one.

A nice gent came by today from the moving company that will be packing up our cr--- stuff. I'm really working HARD at not swearing now-a-days (pray for me if you are so inclined, thank you; I mean it sincerely). His job was to traipse through my home and figure out and estimate how much packing stuff and how many laborers will be needed to pack up our house. He was very friendly and polite and funny! You know how I like humour!

The reality of this move is finally solidifying.

We found out last night that the Hale Koa (military hotel that is rumoured to be the best spot on any beach on Oahu) is booked solid so we won't be staying there. I keep saying to my darling dearest that he should have pulled all stops the minute we got orders and start ringing up places . . . ah, well. Maybe we'll pack a tent and sleeping bags . . . no, we'll find some place to stay and, if not, well, we will. There's no chance we won't.

At least, initially, we'll be okay with the hotel. We are told that now the waiting list for the housing we are in line for is up to nine months long. That's a nice wedgie we weren't expecting. Now we are looking for rentals in and around the housing we're on the list for so the kids can stay in the same schools when we finally get "awarded" our housing. Fun. But you know what Mike's Hard Mike-arita says: When the going gets tough, the tough get going to buy more Mike-aritas! Yeah!

Just kidding. Not about the housing. But you know that already.

Everything works out one way or another - those are words I live by.

We are in the middle of Holy Week. We're almost at Calvary. Make the most of it. Give Him your all, people. I'm praying you will. I'll be praying for you all tonight especially, as I join in a group of people at our chapel tonight to pray the Rosary. After is the Divine Mercy Cenacle. I'll pray for everyone there, too.

We share this Cross. Together, we can change the world for Christ and Holy Mother Church.

Crowning with Thorns

Do not be ashamed to discover in your heart the fomes peccati -- the inclination to evil, which will be with you as long as you live, for nobody is free from this burden. Do not be ashamed, for the all-powerful and merciful Lord has given us all the means we need for overcoming this inclination: the Sacraments, a life of piety, and sanctified work. Persevere in using these means, ever ready to begin again and again without getting discouraged. Josemaria Escriva, The Forge 119

The news is really disturbing this morning: a woman in Florida shot and killed her twenty-year-old son at a shooting range, then herself (caught on film, too). Then, in TX a mother got a court order to retrieve sperm from her "brain dead" 21-year-old son so that she can someday fulfil his wish to have children via surrogacy (another woman, not her) . . . Um, what? WHAT?? There is so much to bring to the Cross, and this is only a few hours in to this one day. Lord, have mercy.

The Scouraging

He is the King of my heart. He is the King of that intimate interior world of mine where no one can enter and where I alone am master. Here in my heart Jesus is King. This you well know, O Lord. - J. Leclercq, A Year with the Liturgy

The Agony in the Garden

You who tend to lose heart, I will tell you something that is very consoling: when a person does what he can, God will not deny his grace. Our Lord is a Father, and if, in the silence of his heart, one of his sons says to him: 'My Father in Heaven, here I am, help me . . . ' If he goes to the Mother of God, who is our Mother, he will get through. Josemaria Escriva, The Way of the Cross, Tenth Station, 3

I had a terrible time coming out of the stressful situation the other day. I thank all of you who stopped a moment to pray for me (and the family here). The stress is coming from so many different places that I just about went over the edge into the abyss of some unnamed hell. I am better, and, that dear friends, is because instead of running straight into that unnamed hell, I turned to God immediately. Still, I had a few tweaked moments where, I am ashamed to admit, I "lost it" and pulled a PC and its desk completely over in the PC area. The kids eyes popped for sure. I did this with extreme care, though, so nothing would break (I hoped!). My point was that I was VERY angry and disappointed that the PC was more important to SB than anyone else. Period. Also, I wanted to demonstrate that when one acts outlandishly in anger, they A) look really foolish, B) do very foolish things, C) usually break things - and people - in the process. The PC area and the kids and myself all survived the upheaval. And, my point was well-taken. Mom had sort-of controlled her anger - apologies were made and accepted and a new resolution to put things into proper perspective was reached. SB had previously gotten very angry, while I was away at the (blech blech blech) commissary (grocery shopping AGAIN) and he essentially told the other two that dad and mom could f-off and all sorts of lovely things. Plus, he broke his glasses, by throwing them on the ground (bent; chipped; still can use them until his appointment and new glasses are made) when he said they "fell" in his fit of rage outside. That's when I pulled the desk over. Mind, my point was that when we are upset and so angry we see RED, it's best to not do anything and not say anything. Period. Again, I explained why anger is so destructive. I reiterated that anger is caused by two things: someone or something has hurt you (in any way) and you experience righteous anger (though, retribution should only be PRAYER and FORGIVENESS); the other cause is not getting what you want. Not getting what you want is the root cause 99% of the time of uncontrolled anger. Breaking your glasses is rage, not anger. Not getting to play the PC Internet game until you raise your grades is not a valid reason for such rage.

As you have read along, you see how crazy it got here. At least the worst thing I did was say "f- you" back to him (I know, that is the real shame here, because I was so indignant and infuriated that he would disrespect the parents so much in front of his siblings - just outrageous!). I just LOST it. After I said it, the shame and remorse set in, almost calming me to apologize . . . then I focused my energy and pulled the desk over (gently, trust me) thinking I was making some point about anger and breaking things. I did ask, "Now, tell me. Did that solve anything or make things worse?" Of course, when any of them could speak again, it was SB who said, "Worse".

Being the melancholic I tend to be, I brewed and stewed and remorsed myself into oblivion the rest of the weekend. Heavy sorrow filling my heart, even though I knew it would all be okay. It has to be, because I do trust God that much.

The other stress points: the packers are coming Wednesday to calculate how many boxes and how long it will take them to pack us up in May. The same evening, (this is very GOOD news, though) a friend will come by and take Galadriel to their home and see if she's a "fit" for them over the weekend. If so, she won't be coming back. I pray, of course, that she fits perfectly, because this family loves animals and t'would be a good home for her. Still, it is a bit heartbreaking. BUT: no more cats. I'm done. I love them, but they shed too much and it sets off my mild allergies enough to make me ill. Also, there is someone who is interested in possibly buying our washer/dryer set. It is all coming together even if it feels like it is all coming apart.

Another thing that has been tearing away at me is my imperfect execution of my penance. My penance is to continue all through Lent - I've done it so imperfectly since confession the Sunday after Ash Wednesday. So, I hope to see a priest this week and avail myself to God's mercy.

Divine Mercy Novena begins Good Friday. Won't you join us?

Palm Sunday

May the Lord be with you. His peace and blessings be upon you. Amen.

Praying

This weekend, amidst the daily grind of running a household, I will be praying. Squirrel Boy is challenging us (me) beyond measure, and, I fear I am going to weaken and my only strength lies in the Lord. I don't even ask for mercy at this point, but for forgiveness. Forgive me for being short-tempered, for not being strong enough when I need to be, for yelling and swearing, and pretending that maybe some things will just fix themselves. In the face of this teenager, help me remember that he is my son, after all, and Lord, I thank you for him. No matter what: Jesus, I trust in you.

For Whom the Bell Tolls . . .

Q & A Answers From Thursday's Q & A Post

GrandmaK - When you were a child, what was your favorite game to play? Hands down, when we (my siblings and neighbourhood kids) would play cowboy and Indians. A close second would be when we (my siblings) would play a game we called "library" upstairs in my grandparents house.


Sarah - Being a military family, how many places have you lived? I guess you could include the places you lived before you were married, too. Which place has been your favorite? An Island outside of Seattle through the beginning of our marriage, was my first place. After that, the Navy sent us to Virginia Beach (5 years), Augusta, GA (4 long years), and Maryland (closing in our our 7th year). As you know, HI is in the horizon soon. My favourite? I don't know. Each place has its own "magic", you know. So far, I think I've enjoyed Maryland the most, because there is so much to go and do and see here. But, I'm looking forward to Hawaii.


Mau - If you were limited to only five words in the English language what words could you not live without? This is a tough one.


Suz - If your parents could have helped you to really stop and think before you continued to leap into teen rebellious acts, what are the few words that they could have said and in what manner . . . soft, easy, sensitive, firm, . . and or all the above? What are the few words . . . hmmmm. The dynamics and differences between each set of parents is huge, first of all. My parents hardly communicated well. And, I think that is where it MUST START. What do both parents want expressed to the child. Do both parents see eye-to-eye on what needs to be said? Of course, no yelling when expressing! But the parents need to re-commit to each other that the child will not get between them. That is where the tough love starts. It has to, or you could mess the whole message up - if the child sees leverage, there's leverage, got that? Okay. My parents could have sat me down and said, "Look. I know in many ways we shared WAY too much with you and did not always provide a united front or a positive respect for authority. However, we are together on this project of raising you children to be productive, positive, Christian members of society. And, you must know you are that right now - not later, but right now. If you persist in your current actions/attitude, here is what is going to happen to your freedom: you won't have any. We will police you to submission. So, either you fix yourself right now or we'll fix you for you and we don't care if you don't like it or us in the process. Give us your cigarettes, no more colouring your hair, no more cussing, you will attend church every Sunday, you will do "these" chores, and you will be respectful." But, understand, Suz, my main problem with my parents was: I knew they weren't working together and that was my biggest loophole. My mother was AFRAID of losing her kids - to death, to the devil, and etc. which completely immobilized her. Instead of acting, she reacted, which set the whole house to falling around her. STAND UNITED WITH YOUR HUSBAND AND ACT.


Christine - How long can you do a handstand??? Can you still do cartwheels??? In fact, I have never done a complete handstand. After many attempts, I decided to avoid cranial reconstruction by just avoiding the near constant face-plants. As far as cartwheels are concerned, I can't say I ever perfected one, but I suppose I still could do a very badly done one.

Squelly - Do you have a favourite book? East of Eden by John Steinbeck. At least, that is the book I have re-read more than a dozen times since high school. But, I have many many books I favour and will read again, given the chance.

+JMJ+ - Which Hollywood actress should star as you in the movie of your illustrious life? Well, I guess Jodi Foster, since I have been told on less than a 1,000 different occasions that we resemble one another. I don't think I really identify with anyone in Hollywood, per se.