Thy Will Be Done...

Diet/Food:

2012-01-17T11:29:00.003-05:00

Well, for those who have been asking about my 17 day diet...it worked again. In 17 days I lost the baby/Thanksgiving/Christmas weight I gained. (approx 11 lbs)

My hubby sent me this link

The list is pretty sad...I have actually eaten this:

Applebee's Appetizer Sampler Platter

2,510 calories

168 g fat

6,660 mg sodium

"Even if you share this with your table, you are still doing your waistline a disservice. This appetizer is an assortment of all the worst snacks you could eat—put onto one plate."

Source: www.applebees.com

What is even worse, I had to ask for more chips and I was still hungry...I am afraid to say out loud that I might even get it again...ok, I said it. My husband said that is why I was a size 16!

I can't help it, I love food and I love to eat. That is why the 17 day diet worked for me...they didn't tell me I couldn't eat lots of food...it was just different food.

This has a nice review on it here:

Thy Will Be Done!!! +JMJ+

Toy Review Tuesday:

2012-01-17T07:48:00.004-05:00

I spent hours on the computer trying to find cool, educational, fun, and lasting toys for my kids for Christmas and our 7 Winter birthdays!

From Sam's Club for about $275 it has been way worth it.

I have never been a big fan of Trampolines, but now that I have so many older teens and tweens I thought it would give them something fun to do outside.

Of course like everything around here...I have a ton of rules to follow.

1. Jobs and school must be done before going on trampoline.
2. 15 min turns (if no one is in line…keep jumping!)
3. No food or drink on the trampoline.
4. Never go under the trampoline when someone else is jumping.
5. Be careful with socks, they can be slippery.
6. No horseplay: pushing or knocking over anyone!
7. Only 2 people or 3 little guys on the tramp at a time.
8. Maintain a clear area around the trampoline at all times.
9. Watch out for double bouncing. It is especially dangerous for larger people to double bounce smaller people.
10. Never land head first on the trampoline.
11. Keep balls and other toys off the trampolines.
12. Make sure you have no objects in your pockets
13. Bounce or aim skills toward the middle
14. Avoid bouncing too high. Stay low until you can control your bounce and repeatedly land in the center of the trampoline.
15. Stop your bounce by flexing your knees as your feet come in contact with the trampoline bed.
16. Do not stand on the trampoline frame or pads while waiting for a turn to bounce. No bouncing or jumping off trampoline
17. Bounce only when the surface of the bed is dry.
18. No somersaults, back handsprings or other difficult skills
19. Keep teeth together and tongue in mouth to avoid biting injuries.

So, so far so good.
THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

MOVIE REVIEW MONDAY:

2012-01-16T07:56:00.005-05:00

Ramona and Beezus

It is worth the watch...really cute.
Not sure I would buy it...we got it from the library.
My daughters thought it was cute ages (6-17) and even the boys liked it.

Cute review here and I love Common Sense reviews also check out plugged in whenever you need a good review.

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Happy Feast of Epiphany/RIP daddy!!!

2012-01-06T08:05:00.004-05:00

Happy Feast of Epiphany...do something fun today...Some coloring pages are here.

Ask the kings to bring you some gifts this New Year!

My New Year wishes:
1. For healing from my miscarriage
2. New baby
3. Self control: especially my mouth, keep quiet, be a better listener, and don't crush my kids with harsh words.

Also, 11 years ago my dear daddy went to be with the Lord. I remember it like it was yesterday. My sister and I were cuddling with him in his hospital bed saying the rosary and singing the divine mercy prayers. It was the closing of the Holy Doors by Pope John Paul II and the graces were pouring on my dad as well as me!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Prayer time: make it a treat!

2012-01-05T22:18:00.004-05:00

We all struggle with finding time to be with our Lord. Prayer time is tough, but it is even harder for me to sit and listen and enjoy my time with my Best Friend Jesus.

The best way I have found to make prayer time something to look forward to and not feel guilty about not doing it enough...is making it a treat.

Find a special spot and light a candle, put your favorite devotionals in a pretty nearby basket. Be prepared with your favorite books and prayer journal.

If you are a coffee drinker, have this be your special time to have coffee with Our Lord. If you like having a soda, special tea, a hot bath, a piece of chocolate, or a glass of wine...set this time aside to spend with your best friend.

It will be a treat for you, and for Our Lord as well. Enjoy basking in His presence like Mary at his feet taking it all in!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!!

Movie Review Monday:

2012-01-01T22:55:00.004-05:00

Adventures of Tintin:

We had movie passes from Christmas and took ten of our kids (ages 20 to 2), two friends, and a cousin to this.

It was action packed and was really entertaining. The only thing I thought wasn't acceptable was the captain was drinking alot.

Common Sense gave it a good review here, so did Plugged in here .
THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

17 day diet:

2011-12-31T18:58:00.003-05:00

Last March I was 163 lbs and lost 35 lbs doing this diet and exercise. Now after my short pregnancy and the holidays...I need to lose about 10 more pounds. I posted some here and here

17 day diet: Gonna start again tomorrow:

Some of the things I eat on the 17 day diet:
chicken
tilapia fish
ground turkey
Turkey
eggs
broccoli
tomatoes (cherry)
celery...I eat lots of this (to keep my mouth busy)
cucumbers
cook everything in garlic and olive oil
green beans (sauteed or baked)
salad
apples (fruit before 2pm)
berries
grapefruit
oranges
red grapes
Chobani Greek yogurt
salsa
mustard
soy sauce
fat free salad dressing
mustard
herbs and spices

Thy will be done!!! +JMJ+

Toy Review Tuesday:

2011-12-27T07:08:00.004-05:00

We have a house full of new toys...I spent hours on line this year trying to find things that would last and provide education as well as fun. This was a helpful site as well as many others. We have seven winter birthdays and my boys didn't want legos this year so I was in a huge dilemma.

I will let you know what we got each week and get back to you to let you know how they last.

This week I will review HEX BUGS.

I had never heard of these toys but they got good reviews and I was desperate for something for my 10 and 12 year old sons.

So far they love them and we got some extra sets to go with the bugs. We don't have pets so this is really fun for them, kinda a mix between a hamster cage and an ant farm...with no smell or mess. They mix and match their sets too.

This was their favorite gift and they played with it all day!

THY WILL BE DONE!!!

MY FAVORITE THINGS:

2011-12-25T21:25:00.003-05:00

YOU GOT TO CHECK OUT Karen on Itsy!!!

Love these shirts!!! I got my son in law a 1 and 1/2!!!
MERRY CHRISTMAS!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Christmas lights repair by Marty Miller

2011-12-22T10:55:00.000-05:00

Exercising with kids:

2011-12-21T08:27:00.004-05:00

Exercising with kids is always interesting...probably why I haven't done it all these years. Well this spring I tried all different times to get to the gym. Since the babies in my house started to wake about 6:15 I would go early. Well...I thought that was early.

I would get up at 5 crawl into my gym clothes and head off to the gym.

Then...the time change came...and my baby started to wake up even earlier. 5:20 to be more specific. I tried going to the gym at nap time, but my four year old would need me. I tried going at night...but I was exhausted from being up so early.

So, since I am a morning person...I got up a little earlier. I go sometime between 4:15 and 5:30am. This morning I went from 4:30 to 5:30am...came home, showered, and had my meditation time.

Guess what...the little bugger didn't wake up till 7:55am! Go Figure!

BTW...when I was a young mom with 7 kids under 10, I would hear people talk about getting up super early to exercise or pray. It was super discouraging to me. If you are pregnant or nursing or have a house full of needy kids...sleep and take naps as much as possible!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

POTTY TRAINING:

2011-12-15T09:26:00.002-05:00

First time in 21 years and 9 months...that I HAVE NO ONE IN DIAPERS...don't tell my husband, but it is kinda sad...I know I am a sick woman!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

FATZINGER FAMILY CHRISTMAS CARD

2011-12-13T20:27:00.001-05:00

Our Photo Gallery Christmas Card

Christmas cards by Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

Shutterfly Christmas Cards:

2011-12-13T13:07:00.003-05:00

The past couple of years we have used Shutterfly for Christmas cards and just recently for my daughters Wedding pictures and albums. They have been great and fast. I liked their books more than the ones I ordered from other companies. If you go here you will see Christmas Cards. We even have used them for calendars for the relatives. Last year our Shutterfly cards were our favorite and everyone loved them.

I feel like a kid in a candy shop just looking at all the possibilities for any family style or size. This year here are some of my favorites:

Isn't this so cute...you could really show off some cute pictures with this one!

I almost picked this...so fun!

Wow, this has great possibilities too!!!

This is classy and fun!!!

This is what we decided on:

Our Photo Gallery Christmas Card

Christmas cards by Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

Once you have an account, you can make photo calendars, photo books, and all sorts of cool gifts. We have had great success with giving calendars for gifts and I love having small photo books in my purse so I can brag about my kids.

I am grateful for Shutterfly who is giving 50 free cards to bloggers!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Our Lady of Guadalupe:

2011-12-12T15:34:00.002-05:00

Sash: The position of the sash (it's up high) and the folds in the tunic show that the lady is pregnant. The color should be black, which is symbolic of the Aztec maternity belt.

Pattern of the dress: The flor y canto pattern (flower and song) connect her to the native people and suggest divine revelation.

Her dress: A light rose/pale red is for the color of dawn. This color was hugely important to Aztecs, who saw considered the color to be the symbol of life, blood and earth.

Stars on the mantle: The eight-point gold stars are arranged as they would have appeared to Juan Diego in the night sky that winter in December 1531. Mary is also known as the Queen of Heaven, hence the stars.
Mantle: The blue-green color is the one worn by royalty according to the native people. The gold trim is symbolic of royalty and a person meriting great respect.

Moon: The moon was worshiped by the native people. By her stepping on them, it shows how the old gods do not exist, only the one god.

Angel: In Aztec culture, only honored people would ever be carried around on someone else's shoulders. The angel supporting the Blessed Mother show that she deserves the highest honors and that even angels care for her.

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Time to heal:

2011-12-11T21:28:00.004-05:00

It is time to heal:
After trying to get pregnant...
Then finding out I was 6 weeks pregnant...
Being nervous due to spotting...
Then finding out the baby didn't have a heart beat...
Naming the baby HOPE...
Being grateful for what we have...
Nervous about the D & C...
Not having a D & C...
Slowly passing the baby...
Then today we buried our baby...
Closure and healing time...
Please dear Lord, bless us with another child...

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Check out our Christmas Card:

2011-12-09T08:53:00.001-05:00

Our Photo Gallery Christmas Card

Design your Christmas cards at Shutterfly.com.

View the entire collection of cards.

TOY REVIEW: Playbmobil

2011-12-07T19:57:00.003-05:00

My 6 year old daughter just got this for her birthday: If you like PLAYMOBIL than you will love it...probably one of the top 10 coolest playmobil sets I have ever bought in 15 years

Buy it here...

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

My Christmas Wish:

2011-12-06T06:41:00.000-05:00

javascript:void(0)

Happy Birthday Cecilia:

2011-12-01T21:25:00.003-05:00

My Dear CC, we love you so much!!! You are mommy's little helper and help with the babies. God has blessed our family with you. May you always grow close to Him and have Jesus as your very best friend!!! #10 Rocks!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

St Nicholas day coming Dec 6th:

2011-11-27T08:06:00.003-05:00

We love Playmobil and St Nicholas:

buy here:

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Mary and Joseph on FACEBOOK?

2011-11-27T07:16:00.000-05:00

THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+

Prepare for Advent:

2011-11-26T06:42:00.000-05:00

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Our Thanksgiving recipes 2011:

2011-11-23T12:17:00.006-05:00

Each kids picks something to make each year...sometimes it is a new recipe and other times something new.

Alex made her famous Sweet potato casserole...recipe unknown

JOSHUA:
Vanilla Pumpkin Pie Recipe

Serves: 8
Prep Time: 10 Minutes
Total Time: 75 Minutes
This pumpkin pie recipe is less spicy than traditional pumpkin pies so you can really taste the pumpkin flavor!

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
1 (12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk
2 eggs
3/4 cup white sugar
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/4 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 (9 inch) unbaked pie crust
Instructions
Preheat oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).

In a large bowl, combine pumpkin, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, flour, salt vanilla and cinnamon. Pour filling into pie shell.

Bake for 20 minutes at 450 degrees F (230 degrees C) then turn oven temperature down to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and continue baking 40 more minutes or until a knife inserted in center comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
---------------
CALEB'S SECRET CHEESE CAKE...no recipe available

LIZZIE:
Apple Pie Apples
• 5 Granny Smith apples
• 2 bags caramel melts(melt according to package directions)
• 5 craft sticks (these are included in the caramel melts bag)
• 1 bag white candy melts
• 2 cups brown sugar mixed with 2 tsp cinammon
Directions:
Insert craft sticks into center of washed/dried apples.
Melt caramels according to package directions in a medium sized bowl in microwave.
Dip apples into caramel—I used a spoon to help evenly coat the apples.
Put apples on a cookie sheet covered with waxed paper that has been sprayed with Pam. Put into freezer for about 3-5 minutes.
While in freezer melt candy melts according to package directions in bowl in microwave.
Remove apples from freezer and coat with melted candy melts using a spoon if needed just as with the caramel.
1. Before candy melts dry on the apples, roll/spoon/sprinkle the apples with the brown sugar/cinammon mixture.
2. Place apples on cookie sheet and refrigerate.
-------------
BARBARA:
Ingredients
1 (16 ounce) package OREO Chocolate Sandwich Cookies, divided 1 (8 ounce) package PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened 2 (8 ounce) packages BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Baking Chocolate, melted
Directions
Crush 9 of the cookies to fine crumbs in food processor; reserve for later use. (Cookies can also be finely crushed in a resealable plastic bag using a rolling pin.) Crush remaining 36 cookies to fine crumbs; place in medium bowl. Add cream cheese; mix until well blended. Roll cookie mixture into 42 balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
Dip balls in chocolate; place on wax paper-covered baking sheet. (Any leftover chocolate can be stored at room temperature for another use.) Sprinkle with reserved cookie crumbs.
Refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour. Store leftover truffles, covered, in refrigerator.
--------------

JOSEPH:Poppy Seed Cake

Take a Duncan Hines Butter Recipe Golden Cake mix , do not follow the instructions on the box, but add the following ingredients instead:

1/2 cup sugar
3/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup poppy seeds
8 oz. sour cream
4 eggs

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. and grease bottom and sides of bundt cake pan and sprinkle with sugar. Mix all of the ingredients 3 to 4 minutes. Pour into the bundt pan and run a spatula through the batter prior to putting it into the oven. Bake at 350 for one hour. After cooling, turn the cake upside down on a platter and sprinkle the top with confectioners sugar.
------------------
ROBERT:

Orange-Cranberry Relish
1 orange- unpeeled, cut into wedges
3 cups fresh cranberries (rinsed)
1 cup sugar

In a food processor, pulse 1/2 of the orange and 1/2 of the cranberries until desired consistency. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Pulse the remaining 1/2 orange and 1/2 cranberries. Pulse again until desired consistency. Add to the mixing bowl.
Stir in sugar.
Refrigerate until ready to serve.
-----------
DOMINIC:
Ingredients

2 (10 ounce) cans chunk chicken,
drained 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese,
softened 1 cup Ranch dressing
3/4 cup pepper sauce (such as Frank's Red Hot®)
1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1 bunch celery, cleaned and cut into 4 inch pieces
1 (8 ounce) box chicken-flavored crackers
Directions
Heat chicken and hot sauce in a skillet over medium heat, until heated through. Stir in cream cheese and ranch dressing. Cook, stirring until well blended and warm. Mix in half of the shredded cheese, and transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, cover, and cook on Low setting until hot and bubbly. Serve with celery sticks and crackers.

Mary and Cecilia made pies and apples with Lizzie also hot chocolate!
------------
ERIC:
Preparation Instructions
Combine the peanut butter and chopped pretzels in a bowl and mix well.

Freeze the peanut butter mixture for at least 30 minutes.

Roll about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the peanut butter mixture into a ball with your hands. You may need to refreeze the balls if the peanut butter softens too much. (This is why crunchy peanut butter is best, to help shape the balls).

Melt the chocolate chips until runny.

Dip the peanut butter balls into the chocolate until fully coated and place on a plate covered with waxed paper. Be careful to not let the balls touch each other before the chocolate has set.

Sprinkle with your favorite decoration if you like.

Refrigerate to allow the chocolate to harden, then serve.
Ingredients1 cup Crunchy Peanut Butter
½ cups Finely Chopped Pretzels
1 cup Milk Chocolate Chips
------------
Shirley Temple:
20 cl ginger ale
3 cl grenadine syrup

Build in a highball glass. Add ginger ale over ice and sprinkle grenadine syrup over it. Garnish with a lemon slice and a cherry.

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Mourn with us:

2011-11-21T20:42:00.005-05:00

It is with a heavy heart that I need to share that we found out today that the baby didn't have a heart beat.

We went to the specialist for our checkup to see how things were. I could tell by the sonographer's face that things weren't good. The doctor came to break the news and let us know that our baby went to God about 2 weeks ago. We are praying that the passing of this baby goes smoothly with the will of the Father in control.

What I am Grateful for:

1. God for entrusting another soul to our family
2. My husband for supporting me through our craziness
3. My children for being so excited about another baby and sad that it will be awhile till they meet
4. My family and friends for rejoicing and mourning with us
5. The doctors and technicians who never made me feel strange for wanting another baby, and actually being excited for us and this addition to our large family
6. So glad I got to Holy Hour this morning before my appointment...I needed the strength that only God could give me
7.The miracle of faith and friendship happening on my facebook page...it is the most pro life activity I have experienced in a long time~your words have brought me to smiles and tears!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

50 Mile Trail Race:

2011-11-19T21:35:00.004-05:00

Yipee, he ran 54.5 miles in a TRAIL race...what a great accomplishment!!!

My Husband ran a 50 mile race today:

It was crazy...He started at 6am, the kids and I got there at 3:50pm waiting for him to finish about 4:30pm...then the runners were finishing and complaining that the route was messed up... the course was 54.5 miles instead of 50. They didn't have their lights with them cuz they figured they would finish before 6 pm...and then they had to run in the dark in the woods which took them twice as long!!!

The stinking hill they had to run to get to the finish line...these race people are crazy!!!

Then they had to run up this hill that was super, super, steep...I wanted to punch the race coordinators!!! Rob was too excited to be upset!!! HE DID IT!!! YIPPEE!!!

FROM MY KIDS FACEBOOK PAGES:
From my two oldest children: (so sweet)

Alexandria says:
Not only is my dad an Iron man AND qualified to run in the Boston Marathon this spring, he also just finished running a 54.5 mile race! Very proud of my daddy. He is so awesome I can't even tag him in this post because he is too cool for Facebook!

Joshua says:
Just in case you weren't sure that my dad can beat up your dad...my dad just ran a 54.5 mile race.

THY WILL BE DONE!!!

Meditation:

2011-11-17T10:40:00.003-05:00

Being a mom to seven son's...yesterday's reading really hit home with me...

Reading 1 2 Mc 7:1, 20-31

It happened that seven brothers with their mother were arrested
and tortured with whips and scourges by the king,
to force them to eat pork in violation of God's law.

Most admirable and worthy of everlasting remembrance was the mother,
who saw her seven sons perish in a single day,
yet bore it courageously because of her hope in the Lord.
Filled with a noble spirit that stirred her womanly heart with manly courage,
she exhorted each of them
in the language of their ancestors with these words:
"I do not know how you came into existence in my womb;
it was not I who gave you the breath of life,
nor was it I who set in order
the elements of which each of you is composed.
Therefore, since it is the Creator of the universe
who shapes each man's beginning,
as he brings about the origin of everything,
he, in his mercy,
will give you back both breath and life,
because you now disregard yourselves for the sake of his law."

Antiochus, suspecting insult in her words,
thought he was being ridiculed.
As the youngest brother was still alive, the king appealed to him,
not with mere words, but with promises on oath,
to make him rich and happy if he would abandon his ancestral customs:
he would make him his Friend
and entrust him with high office.
When the youth paid no attention to him at all,
the king appealed to the mother,
urging her to advise her boy to save his life.
After he had urged her for a long time,
she went through the motions of persuading her son.
In derision of the cruel tyrant,
she leaned over close to her son and said in their native language:
"Son, have pity on me, who carried you in my womb for nine months,
nursed you for three years, brought you up,
educated and supported you to your present age.
I beg you, child, to look at the heavens and the earth
and see all that is in them;
then you will know that God did not make them out of existing things;
and in the same way the human race came into existence.
Do not be afraid of this executioner,
but be worthy of your brothers and accept death,
so that in the time of mercy I may receive you again with them."

She had scarcely finished speaking when the youth said:
"What are you waiting for?
I will not obey the king's command.
I obey the command of the law given to our fathers through Moses.
But you, who have contrived every kind of affliction for the Hebrews,
will not escape the hands of God."

May I always be a good example to my children...Lord bless my sons (and all my children) to live a life dedicated to you!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEETHEART:

2011-11-16T22:23:00.004-05:00

Happy birthday to my high school sweetheart...loved ya since I was 16. So happy I married you...22 years, go figure...13 babies!!! You make me laugh!!! God is so good to us. I love you more each day. Can't wait to see what the next 22 years will be.

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Chores!!!

2011-11-16T05:55:00.006-05:00

People always ask me about chores...what age? How much?

Well I am known for having the world's largest job chart...
My motto is: "If it needs to be done...then find someone to do it!"
The funny question is, "how do you get them to do it?" Well, you gotta be mean...you were not put on this earth to be your kids buddy...but to teach them responsibility and a good work ethic.

One of my favorite stories was when my Barbara was about five. I was sitting on the couch nursing the baby at the time. When I told her to do her jobs...she looked at me and said, "What are your jobs!!!???" I looked her in the face (trying not to laugh) and said, "I am doing my job...the most important job of all. Feeding the baby and making sure you guys do your jobs!" Well, she is almost 16 now and she still has a mouth on her!

Does your kid have a life? Don't they want to play with friends, the computer, an ipod, the wii, use their phone, go on facebook? If they want a life...than they do their jobs!!!

By best advice about how to make a job chart is to sit down a couple of nights and look around your house. Think about what frustrates you...what frustrates your husband? (cuz, it isn't gonna work if you don't tailor it to your family, your house, your circumstances!)

Me: I looked around my house and saw...the front hall a mess...so when a friend or neighbor came by I was too embarrassed to let them in...so, I keep my front room clean and the hallway. No one is allowed upstairs for various reasons and we try to tidy up the downstairs as much as possible. Also, I am very disappointed at the end of the day if I didn't have a chance to read to the babies or play a game with the preschooler...

So some jobs on the job chart are: clean front hall/clean living room/read to kids/play game with kids

My Husband: He hated pulling up the street after a long day at work and seeing our house look like an orphanage with bikes, strollers, scooters, helmets, car seats, balls, etc...all over the yard. He also hates when he opens the van door and three shoes and five water bottles fall out...

So some jobs on the job chart are: clean front yard/clean front porch/clean car

So make it work for your family. I really like what Mommy Matters Blog says about jobs:

From Barbara Curtis:

AGE APPROPRIATE CHORES

Each child has his own timetable, so ages are suggested and approximate. Ages given are on the early side; for boys, who mature more slowly, add six months to ages given.

1 1/2 years:

Getting diaper for self or new baby
Putting disposable diaper in trash
Picking up small items from floor
Shutting cabinet doors
Turning on dishwasher

2 years:

Putting away toys
Unloading dishwasher — putting away plastic dishes and cups

2 1/2 years

“Folding” napkins
Helping set table
Putting away silverware
Peeling carrots
Pouring measured items into mixing bowl
Putting away broom and dustpan.

3 years:

Dusting lower shelves
Emptying small trash cans
Carrying stacks of clothes to rooms

4 years:

Feeding baby
Putting away books
Further dusting
Sorting recyclables

5 years:

Making bed
Setting table
Feeding pets
General straightening of rooms

6 years:

Pouring milk for family meals
Clearing table
Emptying trash
Weeding
General folding
Polishing silver, brass.

7 years:

Vacuuming
Loading dishwasher
Sweeping floor
Opening cans
Cleaning windows
Helping with grocery shopping

8 years:

Washing pans
Cleaning bathrooms
Beginning cooking skills
Sewing buttons
Helping with grocery list

9–10 years:

Changing baby’s diapers
Helping with meal planning
Further cooking skills
Washing car

At this age, the child should be able to learn any housekeeping skill, as long as you are willing to teach him. Certain skills, such as ironing, mowing lawn, and babysitting for siblings depend on maturity level and/or family circumstances. Parents know best.

------isn't she so wise!

See some of my older posts on this subject here! Or of course my hubby will make you laugh when you read this!

I could talk for days about this...but, I gotta go do my chores!!!
THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Toy Review Tuesday:

2011-11-15T13:53:00.000-05:00

We have seven winter birthdays...it is really hard to find anything fun, practical, and that we need. We really have EVERYTHING!!! (just come look at our messy house)

I need ideas!!! Please send me suggestions of things that you would actually buy again!!!

Here are some of our past ideas!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

DOUBLE DIGITS BABY!!!

2011-11-15T12:58:00.005-05:00

Happy Birthday Dom...You are totally the family comedian, after watching The Pacifier he walked around and asked everyone to call him "Little Puppet"...well it stuck...you are starting to be a big little puppet!!!

We love you Dom...so proud of your diligent study habits and kindness to your family and friends!!!

May you stay close to Jesus all the days of your life and may He always be your best friend!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

MOVIE REVIEW MONDAY:

2011-11-14T17:45:00.003-05:00

Captain America:
The big kids (ages 9 and up) in our house enjoyed this movie...little hard to follow for younger kids...but we liked it. Make sure you watch about 5 minutes after the credits for the follow up movie trailer coming out soon...

See reviews from Common Sense and Plugged In.

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

The love of reading:

2011-11-11T00:03:00.001-05:00

We love to read around here...but, momma gets so tired and falls asleep when reading to the precious kids...especially when pregnant!!!

This perfect find at the library was just the right length and had great recipes in the back. Of course we called it Apple Farmer CC!!!

We read Apple Farmer Annie and made Applesauce Cake:

Applesauce Cake
1/2 cup butter
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 1/4 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
1/2 teaspoon allspice (optional)
1 cup applesauce
2/3 cup raisins

*Cream together butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl.
*Add eggs and beat well.
*In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, salt, and spices.
*Add to creamed mixture alternately with applesauce, beating after each addition and blending well.
*Stir in raisins.
*Pour batter into 9-inch greased tube pan.
*Bake at 375 degrees for 45 minutes or until browned. (toothpick inserted into cake should come out clean.)
*Cool, then spread with Butter Frosting (see recipe below).

Butter Frosting (it did'nt need the frosting...but is sounds so good)
2 tablespoons softened butter
2 cups confectioners' sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 tablespoons milk

*Cream together butter, sugar, and vanilla extract.
*Add milk and stir well.
*The frosting should be smooth and easy to spread.

Glad to know we weren't the only ones who loved this book!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

{pretty, happy, funny, real}:

2011-11-10T00:39:00.001-05:00

This is the first time I ever did the {pretty, happy, funny, real} post...
I hope I did it correct...so click here for more bloggers photos.

{pretty}

{happy}

{funny}

{real}

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Movie Review Mondays:

2011-11-07T21:51:00.004-05:00

Movie Review Monday's are back...cuz I am kinda laying low with this pregnancy for a time.

One of our family favorites is INCREDIBLES!!!

Plugged in has a nice family lesson to go with it.

You have all seen this correct...it is a classic...

My favorite character is Edna 'E' Mode!!! How about yours?

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

One week ago:

2011-11-06T18:28:00.006-05:00

Let's see...One week ago...
I had just run a 10k for Vocations.
Little did I know what God had in store for my week...
I was a size 6 and just cleaned out my closet of old fat clothes...

I was reviewing my week:
1. Holy hour on Monday
2. gym from 5:15-6:15 Tues-Fri
3. appointment for mammogram
4. appointment for sonogram
5. appointment with vascular surgeon
6. go to soccer playoffs for my sons

Little did I know that what I thought was my period...was actually spotting for my unknown pregnancy that we had been praying for all year...

So, on Tues when the Sonographer was checking my supposedly pre menopausal ovaries...she found our precious 6 week old baby!!!

So, no appointment with the vascular surgeon...
So, no going to the gym...
So, no soccer games out in the cold for this little baby...
And lots of spoiling on momma this week as she lays low, plays cards, reads, sleeps, and eats away...

Most of all...bye-bye...size six!!!
Hello maternity clothes!!!

We have an appointment in 3 weeks with a specialist...so please pray for us!!!

My 25th reunion...

Last week...my 10k for VOCATIONS!!!

2 years ago...20th wedding anniversary...6 months pregnant...
boy that camera really adds lbs.

This August...after I lost 37lbs for my daughters wedding!!!

more reunion pictures...

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Another great prayer:

2011-11-05T10:33:00.003-04:00

Prayer of St. Ambrose (Before Mass or anytime)

Lord Jesus Christ,
I approach your banquet table in fear and trembling,
for I am a sinner,
and dare not rely on my own worth,
but only on your goodness and mercy.
I am defiled by many sins in body and soul,
and by my unguarded thoughts and words.
Gracious God of majesty and awe,
I seek your protection,
I look for your healing.
Poor troubled sinner that I am,
I appeal to you, the fountain of all mercy.
I cannot bear your judgment,
but I trust in your salvation.
Lord, I show my wounds to you and uncover my shame before you.
I know my sins are many and great,
and they fill me with fear,
but I hope in your mercies,
for they cannot be numbered.
Lord Jesus Christ, eternal king, God and man,
crucified for mankind,
look upon me with mercy and hear my prayer,
for I trust in you.
Have mercy on me,
full of sorrow and sin,
for the depth of your compassion never ends.
Praise to you, saving sacrifice,
offered on the wood of the cross for me and for all mankind.
Praise to the noble and precious blood,
flowing from the wounds of the my crucified Lord Jesus Christ and washing away the sins of the whole world.
Remember, Lord your creature,
whom you have redeemed with your blood;
I repent my sins,
and I long to put right what I have done. Merciful Father, take away all my offenses and sins;
purify me in body and soul,
and make me worthy to taste the holy of holies.
May your body and blood,
which I intend to receive, although I am unworthy,
be for me the remission of my sins,
the washing away of my guilt,
the end of my evil thoughts,
and the rebirth of my better instincts.
May it incite me to do the works pleasing to you and profitable to my health in body and soul,
and be a firm defense against the wiles of my enemies.
Amen.

I use this before a spiritual communion also.
THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Just what I needed today:

2011-11-04T13:42:00.000-04:00

Do not look forward in fear to the changes of life; rather look to them with full hope as they arise. God, whose very own you are, will lead you safely through all things; and when you cannot stand it, God will carry you in His arms .

Do not fear what may happen tomorrow; the same everlasting Father who cared for you today will take care of you then and every day. He will either shield you from suffering, Or will give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace. And put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginations

(St Francis de Sales)

Prayers for me please:

2011-11-03T12:13:00.003-04:00

It is a long story and more later:

It is with great joy that we would like to announce that we are expecting a baby around June 26th. As many of you know we have been praying to be blessed with another precious one. On Oct 21st I met with my doctor to discuss pre menopause and infertility signs. He wrote a prescription for a special sonogram to see what shape my ovaries were in. When the tech asked me why I was there and I explained that I was in the early stages of menopause and wanted to have a baby she just kept up the exam. After another sono she said, well, it looks like you are 6 weeks pregnant!!! I was in a rush of excitement.

THE PRAYER PART: I have been spotting for about 3 weeks, no cramps just light spotting. I don't usually have this problem. I went to the Dr and got more blood work and an appointment with a specialist in 3 weeks. All this time we (including the Dr) thought it was me going through pre menopause.

So please keep us in your prayers. We considered waiting a couple of weeks to tell everyone after we heard what the specialist said...but, believing it is our precious baby now as much as in 8 months...we had to share the good news. Also, we are huge believers in prayer...and now is crucial for our precious babe!!! Thanks so much and thanks for all the prayers and support in the past!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+

Library:

2011-10-31T21:22:00.003-04:00

Years ago, my oldest daughter had the opportunity to show off her Lady Bug display at the library in their display case. Not remembering how important she felt...I never thought about asking again to do a display. Well, my eight and five year old daughters rush to the display cases and love seeing what "topic" is being shared with each month. So all I did was ask and they said we could have the floor case in November and the corner case in Dec. The girls were so thrilled.

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Slow and Steady...

2011-10-30T22:40:00.003-04:00

My marathoner/Iron Man husband woke up this morning to wish me luck on my kinda first race. (He talked me into one when we were dating when I was 18) His advice: Be the TURTLE...slow and steady!!!

Then I sat to have my morning devotion to see what the Lord had to say. I opened my Small Steps for Catholic Moms book for Oct 30th...

This is what it said:

THINK:
"Never be in a hurry; do everything quietly and in a calm spirit. Do not lose you inner peace for anything whatsoever, even if your whole world seems upset." St Francis De Sales

PRAY:
When I rush, I forget you, Lord. As many times as you need to today, push my "pause button." Slow my steps and turn my heart toward you.
ACT:
Any time a child seeks your attention today, stop what you are doing and give it. Turn off the computer, hang up the phone, put down the dish towel, and listen. Through that small voice, God is speaking to you.

Well, what can I say? Running the Marian Corps 10K for VOCATIONS was great. I finished in 59.38. I froze my toes off. i had some great praise and worship music on and didn't kill myself. I was happy I didn't need to walk. Over all I am happy I did it.
THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

RUN FOR VOCATIONS:

2011-10-29T21:59:00.004-04:00

I am doing my first Run for Vocations 10k tomorrow morning...I ran a 10k about 24 years ago when I was young and dating my husband...I think I thought I was gonna die...well, now I am 43 and gave birth to 12 kids and for some reason I am gonna do it!!!

About 6 months ago someone asked me if I was gonna run it...I said, "No, I will hopefully be pregnant!" No luck...so I am running.

So nervous...this is not my safe little treadmill at the gym with controlled weather and my stuff right next to me...crazy weather...what to wear...what not to wear...Good Night...Pray for me!!!

UPDATE:
finished...very cold...59.38 min

THY WILL BE DONE!!!

scarf tutorial:

2011-10-28T20:59:00.002-04:00

Thanks to Danielle Bean for linking this:

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

PERFECT?

2011-10-27T07:32:00.003-04:00

I was meditating on "the perfect life" this morning...

If I was perfect...
If my husband was perfect...
If my kids were perfect...
If my house was perfect...
If my neighborhood was perfect...
If my church was perfect...
If my friends were perfect...

There would be no desire for HEAVEN...

No striving for being a better person...
A better wife...
A better mom...
A better housekeeper...
A better neighbor...
A better Christian...
A better friend...

Suffering is a part of every ones life...it is what you do with it that makes you different...we must embrace the struggles to become a better person and change the world around us. It takes starting over each day with Christ on your side to help you through. May God grant me the strength and wisdom to be the best (not perfect) person I can be!!! With me, it especially means keeping my mouth shut and my ears open to the inspirations of the Holy Spirit!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

I don't want to gain the whole world and lose my soul!!!

2011-10-18T12:34:00.002-04:00

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

College Debt Free:

2011-10-16T19:04:00.002-04:00

"I am a college senior about to graduate completely debt free.I pay for all of my living expenses by working 30+ hours a week making barely above minimum wage.I chose a moderately priced in-state public university.I started saving $ for school at age 17.I got decent grades in high school & received 2 scholarships which cover 90% of my tuition.I currently have a 3.8 GPA.I live comfortably in a cheap apartment knowing I can’t have everything I want. I don’t eat our every day or even once a month. I have no credit card, new car, iPad, or smart phone — and I’m perfectly OK with that.If I did have debt I would not blame Wall Street or the Government for my own bad decisions.I live beneath my means to continue saving for the future.I expect nothing to be handed to me, and will continue to work my @$$ off for everything I have.That’s how it’s supposed to work."

I am not sure of the story behind this photo, someone sent it to me...and it made me think of my oldest child...

I am a big believer in Community Colleges and State Schools for a number of reasons. I know many people who have postponed having more children due to college dept. It is also a hinder to anyone interested in becoming a priest or religious, for you must be dept free to enter. I went to a Community College then got a scholarship to a State College. I worked part and full time since I was 13. I bought my own car and I lived simply. I don't think I ever missed a college class, except for the March For Life. My husband on the other hand, went to an expensive college and was paid an allowance each month from his parents...he missed class all the time and didn't appreciate his academics. Not that all students do that...just a typical example.

I would love my kids to go to a Private School or Catholic College...but it is not worth going into dept to get there. It is hard to live in our means but in the long run our family benefits from it and learn a valuable lesson.

So far my four oldest have gone to community college and the oldest one just graduated with her masters and did a special program that they paid for her schooling. The second two are at state colleges. One commutes and the other is working hard to pay for his school and living on campus for the time being. The fourth is commuting to a community college. They all work some type of job.

So far...so good...

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

ONE IN CHRIST:

2011-10-16T06:57:00.002-04:00

Ephesians 4:1-6

Unity of the Spirit
1 Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, 3 being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as also you were called in one hope of your calling; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all.

+AMEN+

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

St Teresa of Avila

2011-10-15T14:59:00.001-04:00

St. Teresa of Avila
(1515-1582)

Let nothing trouble you,
let nothing frighten you.
All things are passing;
God never changes.
Patience obtains all things.
He who possesses God lacks nothing:
God alone suffices.

Twice baked potatoes:

2011-10-05T15:56:00.006-04:00

Our Aldi's had 10 lb bags of potatoes for $2.49 this week...I bought about 5 of them...we have been trying all sorts of potato recipes!!! Have any to share?

One of my favorite things my mom used to make were twice baked potatoes...they seemed so difficult, but I found this easy recipe here:

•4 large baking potatoes, scrubbed and micro-waved for 10 minutes or until tender

•1 cup plain yogurt/sour cream

•1 cup shredded Colby jack cheese

•½ cup Parmesan cheese

•4 slices turkey bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled

•1 teaspoon garlic salt

•1 teaspoon onion powder

•1 teaspoon dried parsley

•¼ teaspoon black pepper

•1 teaspoon dried chives

1. Cut potatoes in half and scoop out the insides, leaving the skins intact.

2. Mix potato fluff, and rest of ingredients in an electric mixer with the cookie paddle.

3. Fill the potato skins with the cheese mixture and place right side up on cookie sheet till tops are brown.

4.For darker color on the tops you can place them under the broiler for a few minutes just before serving.

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Wanting a Baby...

2011-10-03T06:52:00.005-04:00

THIS IS ME PREGNANT WITH MY 11 POUNDER!!! WOW, I WAS HUGE...

"THY WILL BE DONE"...everyone keeps reminding me..."You have 12 wonderful, healthy children"...everyone keeps reminding me..."Be grateful for what you have"...everyone keeps reminding me..."You are 43"...everyone keeps reminding me..."You might be a grandma soon"...everyone keeps reminding me...."You just lost all that weight"...everyone keeps reminding me..."Twelve is a great number"...everyone keeps reminding me..."Your other kids need you"...everyone keeps reminding me..."Appreciate what you have"...everyone keeps reminding me...and the comments go on and on...

Well, I agree with every single comment...but, deep down inside, I am aching for another baby.

I am trying to figure out if I just let the Will of God be...or if I should continue to beg God to bless us with another...Well, I do...with the understanding that I accept His will and know He has great plans for our family.

I give you thanks Dear Lord, for my husband and my family. Thank you for always doing what is best for us. Help me accept and embrace Your Holy Will in our lives and be the best wife and mother I can be.

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Happy Birthday Mary!!!

2011-09-29T20:58:00.006-04:00

Wow, you are getting so big. WE love you so much and pray for you each day. May God bless and keep you safe all the days of your life!!! Stay close to Christ and seek His holy will in your life...then do it!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Triple-X Internet Threat

2011-09-18T09:48:00.001-04:00

Triple-X Internet Threat

Scary stuff happening in our culture...we must keep aware of the new changes to protect our families.

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Triple-X Internet Threat

2011-09-18T09:48:00.000-04:00

Triple-X Internet Threat

Scary stuff happening in our culture...we must keep aware of the new changes to protect our families.

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

My baby is two...

2011-09-15T06:50:00.006-04:00

My baby turns two today...we are all very excited to celebrate this special day with such a wonderful little person. Kolbe you bring us so much joy and happiness. You make us all smile. We thank God for you and pray that you grow close to Him and find His holy will in your life.

Baptized by Bishop Holley

This day goes with mixed feelings for me. I know it is hard for anyone to understand how difficult it is for me to have a two year old and not be pregnant or holding a baby. This is the longest I haven't been pregnant in 22 years. It is such a different and strange feeling. Pretty soon he will be out of diapers. My husband paraded around the room the other day with a case of diapers saying, "This is the last box of diapers I will ever buy!" I practically cried...I know, I am a sick and strange women!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Nine/Eleven Memories:

2011-09-10T22:42:00.004-04:00

I bet everyone has a memory of what they were doing on 9/11 ten years ago.

I was about 7 months pregnant with my eighth child. I started the day off with my seven little kids by going to 8 am mass. I remember like it was yesterday when Monsignor said his regular prayer intention. "For all those who will die today, for the policemen and those who serve our country..." Who would know that about an hour later that prayer would be needed like never before.

After mass I packed up my youngest five to head to Alexandria, Virginia for a midwife appointment. My oldest two stayed home to do school work.

As I was driving over the Woodrow Wilson Bridge my eight year old son said, "Mom, what is all that smoke over there?" I looked over and saw the sky full of smoke. I had no idea what it was from. Little did I know it was the Pentagon.

I walked into the midwife office and saw everyone staring at a small TV with live footage of the first tower that was just hit...then we all watched in horrow as the second tower was hit. I couldn't comprehend what was actually happening. In my life time I had never really encountered a national crisis before.

My midwife checked the heart beat real fast and suggested I get home as soon as possible. I packed up the kids and got on the bridge home. The traffic was starting to get crazy and the cell phones weren't working.

I finally got home and my kids ran out and said the phone was ringing off the hook. My neighbor ran out to fill me in on what was actually happening. I was in shock and we just went in the house and became numb like the rest of America.

The rest is history. God Bless and keep America safe.

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Summer memories:

2011-09-07T21:11:00.005-04:00

My summer was full of loosing weight, preparing for my 25Th High School Reunion, and most of all the wedding of my oldest daughter.

As we started school this week two very small memories stuck in my mind.

First, was from the beginning of the summer. We were at the beach and I was going on my early morning walk with my baby. As we walked the board walk about 6 am I heard loud stomping behind me. When I turned around I saw about 50 young people who were in the Army Reserve training. My son and I stopped as they all ran past the stroller. When we were at the end of the board walk they were standing there waiting for the rest of their group to finish up. I tried to push the stroller past them and the captain announced for all to make way for this mother and child. As I sheepishly passed by them the captain said to the recruits, "people this is what we are doing this all for...for mothers and their children!" I had chills down my spine as I reflected all the lives that have fought for our freedom. GOD BLESS THEM AND THEIR FAMILIES FOR THEIR SACRIFICE.

The other memory is more recent. After five days of being without power and hearing the constant drumming of the generator, my husband and I were headed to bed grouchy and exhausted. We then realized that our 11,13, and 15 year old were outside without permission. Instead of gently reminding them the rules we both let them have it...we started yelling at them for not telling us they were out there, told them they were in trouble, and then started giving them a list of jobs to be done right then and there. As my 11 year old (who doesn't usually get in trouble) was sweeping he started crying. I went over and said, "what's wrong?" He sadly said, "I don't like being a big kid."

It was just so much more fun and innocent when he was with the little guys and he saw that he was crossing over to the "teen scene" with the other family trouble makers.

Of course I melted and gave my "baby" a hug.
Boy being a parent stinks sometimes.

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

NO POWER:

2011-08-30T08:19:00.003-04:00

We lost power around late Sat night/early Sun morning...
Thank God the weather is perfect because the windows are open and we are very comfortable.
There are power lines laying all over my back yard, as well as my neighbors. So, one of the hardest things during this adventure is keeping the kids from going near the area. Especially since the weather is perfect for playing outside.

What we miss most:
cooking!!!
playing in our back yard
garbage disposal
dish washer
washing machine
tape/cd players at night

Thy Will Be Done!!! +JMJ+

Pantry organizing day...

2011-08-27T15:45:00.003-04:00

I love my pantry...when we redid our kitchen I just had my hubby put a wall 2 feett out from the wall and added two doors. I just reorganized everything and it feels so great.

THIS IS THE LEFT SIDE:

THIS IS THE RIGHT SIDE:

My hubby is a AMAZON NUT...he orders everything from amazon. He is on the PRIME membership and even gets shipments automatically sent to him...for instance...spaghetti sauce...well, since I haven't been eating much pasta and he realized he has a wheat allergy...we need to stop that shipment.

This is some of what we have:
42 cans of sardines...don't ask, amazon deal
28 boxes of pasta
18 rolls of paper towels
14 jars of BBQ sauce
6 bottles of cooking oil
23 cake mixes
10 tubs of icing
16 boxes of jello/pudding mix
9 boxes of various crackers
9 bottles of salad dressing
6 containers of parm cheese
18 jars of peanut butter
13 bags of pretzels/gold fish
7 boxes of gran bars
2 jelly
9 cans of green beans
7 cans of pineapples
8 cans of baked beans
23 jars of spaghetti sauce (another amazon deal)
4 jars of mayo
11 jars of salsa
10 four pound containers of drink mix...what was my hubby thinking?
20 boxes of cereal
10 bags of nacho chips

So, come on over for some food and we will have a great time!!!
THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Photo Book

2011-08-24T14:06:00.001-04:00

Click here to view this photo book larger

My first earth quake:

2011-08-23T21:37:00.002-04:00

I experienced my first earth quake today...it was kinda freaky...the house started shaking and the big bell in the back yard rang...the kids were running around like crazy...my husband yelled everyone outside...I ran upstairs and grab my sleeping baby as the rest of the family ran outside.

We were all safe...I wish I could say the same for My Saint Maria Goretti statue...boo hoo...

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Birthday Girl:

2011-08-20T23:49:00.000-04:00

In the midst of all the wedding fun...two of my kids had birthdays...
Happy 17th Birthday to my sweet Lizzie!!!
You started off as our sunshine and I can still see the sun shining through your sarcastic self!!!
Keep up the hard work at your jobs, your school, and keeping your nice friends.
May God continue to bless you in all that you do...stay close to HIM forever!!!

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION

My sweet valtiorian!!!

Bridesmaid

God Mother/Big Sister

Comforting your little sister...In your own way...

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Budget Wedding post one:

2011-08-16T22:00:00.000-04:00

Buy your ties from Amazon

Have your sister make appetizers

Have your friend make the cake and cupcakes

Get eight suits from Goodwill, online, friends, and consignment shops...

Get shoes at consignment stores or from friends:

Buy your own table cloths and napkins....surprisingly it is cheaper than renting.

Have friends do your hair...little things add up.

Rent a hall and have lots of friends to help you set up the day before

Have Rehearsal dinner at a home with pizza, wings, and lots of other fattening fun food!

Have your awesome friends help put together the flowers

Order your flowers from a wholesaler or find a wholesale flower company.

Make and order your own decorations

More ideas later:
THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Wedding Photos:

2011-08-16T07:19:00.005-04:00

How do I begin to choose from the 500 shots I took...
these aren't even the ones that my family, friends, or the photographer took.
I may just post them all year long.
What a wonderful and glorious day!!!

Thursday: making sure I have my ducks in a row...I mean shoes...
Friday night before bed: My daughters last night in her room...
very emotional for me

This is daddy convincing the little flower girl that the limo would be here soon
and it is ok that we would find a undershirt to keep the dress from being too itchy...

My sweet baby...True Love
It was interesting getting 14 people plus the two extra bridesmaids all dressed in our house...

The Bridesmaids getting my daughter ready

More pictures tomorrow...
THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Purple Flowers Everywhere:

2011-08-11T22:25:00.002-04:00

Wedding flowers are here and ready to go!!!

Funerals, Reunion and a Wedding; Oh My!

2011-08-10T17:18:00.004-04:00

I have been writing alot about my experiences trying to lose weight. It was all in preparation for this week.

My friends and I have been planning our 25^thBowie High School class of 1986 reunion which was the end of July. We had a happy hour on Friday night with a bunch of Bowie grads from different years and the big evening was Saturday night in Annapolis.

It is always fun to reminisce with old friends. I especially enjoy seeing friends from my elementary school. To think we have known each other since we were five years old. It is fun when my kids hang out in houses that my old friends lived in so many years ago. I love driving around town with floods of memories going through my head of all my friends’ old houses and the fun things we did.

read more here:

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Novena to St Rita:

2011-08-04T12:44:00.002-04:00

I am starting this today for my kids...especially for my soon to be bride...in NINE days!!!

O holy patroness of those in need, St. Rita,
whose pleadings before thy Divine Lord
are almost irresistible,
who for thy lavishness in granting favors
hast been called the Advocate of the hopeless
and even of the impossible;
St. Rita, so humble, so pure,
so mortified, so patient
and of such compassionate love
for thy Crucified Jesus
that thou could obtain from Him
whatsoever thou ask,
on account of which all confidently
have recourse to thee expecting,
if not always relief,
at least comfort;
be propitious to our petition,
showing thy power with God
on behalf of thy suppliant;
be lavish to us,
as thou hast been in so many wonderful cases,
for the greater glory of God,
for the spreading of thine own devotion,
and for the consolation of those
who trust in thee.

We promise, if our petition is granted,
to glorify thee by making known thy favor,
to bless and sing thy praises forever.
Relying then upon thy merits and power
before the Sacred Heart of Jesus,
we pray thee grant that...

(Make your request here...)

as soon as God deems fit.

Amen.

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

COUNTDOWN till wedding day:

2011-08-02T10:39:00.001-04:00

CUPCAKES MADE BY THE WOMEN WHO MADE MY WEDDING CAKE 22 years ago
Me with my girls: bride, two bridesmaids, and two flower girls

Bride and Mommy

Well, I just celebrated my 25th High School reunion is this weekend

with my old friends

and now I can concentrate on the wedding

in less than two weeks!!!

Please pray for my daughter and her fiance as they prepare for a life time of

love and all that comes with the sacrament of marriage!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Memories

2011-08-01T11:05:00.008-04:00

The following was sent to me from a friend. I tweaked it a bit. My mother just died in February and I just spent the weekend with my friends for my 25th high school reunion. Some of us had been friends since kindergarten. So this seemed perfect to share.

Their marriage was good, their dreams focused.. Their best friends lived barely a wave away.

I can see them now, Dad in trousers, tee shirt and a hat and Mom in a house dress; lawn mower in his hand, and dish-towel in hers..

It was the time for fixing things. A curtain rod, the kitchen radio, screen door, the oven door, the hem in a dress. Things we keep.
It was a way of life, and sometimes it made me crazy. All that re-fixing, eating, renewing, I wanted just once to be wasteful. Waste meant affluence. Throwing things away meant you knew there would always be more.

But then my mother died, and on that clear winter night, in her family room, with me so close by. I was struck with the pain of learning that sometimes there isn't any more.

Sometimes, what we care about most gets all used up and goes away ...never to return.

So ..While we have it ...its best we love it ... And care for it .... And fix it when it's broken ... And heal it when it's sick.

This is true ...
For marriage ...
And old cars ...
And children with bad report cards ...
And aging parents ...
And grandparents,
brothers and sisters,
aunts,uncles and friends.

We keep them because they are worth it, because we are worth it.
Some things we keep. Like a best friend who moved away or a classmate we grew up with.

There are just some things that make life important, like people we know who are special ...

And so, we keep them close in heart and mind and spirit.

Good friends and family are like stars ... You don't always see them, but you know they are always there.

Friends from elementary school

25th high school reunion

My wonderful husband

I have known these guys since I was five!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

PRAYERS FOR TWO WOMEN:

2011-07-16T16:06:00.003-04:00

Pray for a woman named Amanda in labor with twins. She is 6cm.....original due date was Sept 9. She is 28......her first babies after a miscarriage .......thanks for your prayers.

Also for a dear friend Kathy who is in the hospital and needs urgent prayers!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Another Day in the Life:

2011-07-15T13:16:00.003-04:00

This is what my day looked like yesterday…
4:50am woke up
5:00-6 am Gym: ran four miles
6:15am get home check email
6:20am baby wakes…cuddle!!!
6:35am make fruit salad and breakfast for kids
7: 00am shower
7: 30am rally all kids who have tennis to brush teeth, get dressed, and get ready to leave
7:50am kids in car
7:58am I get out ready to drive away (pool is 2 min away) and see kids looking for car seats and tennis rackets
8:01am I realized that the youth group borrowed our 15 passenger van on Wed for Hershey Park and we emptied the van
8:05 am very frustrated and grabbed rained on car seats and big siblings rackets to borrow
8:10am get to tennis (I hate being late)
8:30am get CC and go home to get little boys
9:00am have snack
9:20am go to bank
9:30am pick up from swimming
9:45am go for a quick grocery trip
10:10am go drop off dry cleaning
10:20am get home and get other kids ready for swimming
10:45am swimming
11:30am get all kids and some extras to go home for lunch
12:00pm LUNCH
12:30pm clean house for company
1:30pm do Laundry
4:00pm Dinner prep
5:00pm company over
7:00pm send kids to bed
9:00pm Company leaves
9:30 pm Do 100 sit ups for a contest
9:45 pm wrap wedding gift
10:00pm go to be exhausted!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Mary's First Holy Communion:

2011-07-10T14:20:00.000-04:00

Look what I never posted from May:

I felt like it was her wedding day!!!

It was another glorious day in our family when Mary received Christ for the first time. She was so excited and honored to be the first girl in line with her buddy and partner Joshua.

She was just beautiful in her big sister's dress...the fourth one in the family to wear this heirloom. Especially since the friend who made the veil 13 years ago passed away last year. Our CCD program is so great and it prepares the kids so well. I am glad she is so excited to receive our Lord.

May you always stay close to Jesus sweetie!!! We love you so much!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Words of wisdom:

2011-07-07T04:09:00.001-04:00

DON'T KNOW ABOUT YOU but I can't tell (I mean nag) my kids enough about staying close to the Lord and living a Godly life. Especially with half my kids being teens or older, I find myself awake at 3 in the morning trying to figure out how to share the truth with them to be strong in the Lord and never give up hope!!!

I just cry when I hear this song and pray that my kids will catch the faith and live it each day!!!

I printed this as my daughter's wedding shower card...what more could I possibly say?

Three in the morning, and I’m still awake
So I picked up a pen and a page
And I started writing just what I’d say
If we were face to face
I’d tell you just what you mean to me
Tell you these simple truths

Be strong in the Lord
And never give up hope
You’re gonna do great things
I already know
God’s got His hand on You
So don’t live life in fear
Forgive and forget
But don’t forget why you’re here
Take your time and pray
These are the words I would say

Last time we spoke you said you were hurting
And I felt your pain in my heart
I want to tell you that I keep on praying
That love will find you where you are
I know cause I’ve already been there
So please hear these simple truths
`
from one simple life to another
I will say… come find peace in the Father

I LOVE YOU SWEETIE!!!
THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

More on weight lose:

2011-07-06T06:34:00.000-04:00

My hubby and I were discussing my weight lose and the fear of falling back into my old habits. Our 11th child's nick name is TANK. He was 11 pounds and is dead weight. He is almost 4 now and so heavy to carry I need to sit down. He weighs 33 pounds. My husband said that every time I have the desire to eat junk food out of control again...than pick up TANK and you will see how much extra weight you used to have.

I found this on my blog from 2008.

I will continue to try to eat well and exercise.

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

My Daddy's Shoes:

2011-07-05T18:12:00.003-04:00

My daddy died ten years ago.
I inherited his shoes...
I wear them at least every Fourth of July!!!
They make me smile and those around me too!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Window Cleaner?

2011-07-04T13:15:00.003-04:00

What's your favorite?

I like:

2 cups rubbing alcohol
1/2 cup ammonia
1 tsp dish detergent (liquid)
top with water until you have 1 gallon of window cleaner

See all sorts of suggestions here:

Window Cleaning Tips

Spray windows with preferred cleaner solution then wipe clean with crumpled newspapers. The newspaper helps prevent streaks.
Avoid cleaning windows and glass when the sun is hot and shining on the window–glass will dry too fast and there will be streaks.
Also wash one side of the window in an up and down direction, on the other side scrub side to side. This will help determine which side of the glass has the streaks that need to be polished out.

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Imatation of Christ Meditation...

2011-07-03T11:18:00.007-04:00

It has been a real long time since I shared my meditation on The Imitation of Christ. It is the best devotional book to just pick up and read a little at a time. It really puts so many of my daily struggles and passions into perspective of what Christ expects of me. I thought I would try to finish up the book and share the rest of my thoughts. Here is the message on receiving communion worthily.

From Book Four: The Seventh Chapter: Blessed Sacrament:The Examination of Conscience and the Resolution to Amend

You can Read here: or Buy here:

The Voice of Christ

ABOVE all, God’s priest should approach the celebration and reception of this Sacrament with the deepest humility of heart and suppliant reverence, with complete faith and the pious intention of giving honor to God.

Carefully examine your conscience, then. Cleanse and purify it to the best of your power by true contrition and humble confession, that you may have no burden, know of no remorse, and thus be free to come near. Let the memory of all your sins grieve you, and especially lament and bewail your daily transgressions. Then if time permits, confess to God in the secret depths of your heart all the miseries your passions have caused.

Lament and grieve because you are still so worldly, so carnal, so passionate and unmortified, so full of roving lust, so careless in guarding the external senses, so often occupied in many vain fancies, so inclined to exterior things and so heedless of what lies within, so prone to laughter and dissipation and so indisposed to sorrow and tears, so inclined to ease and the pleasures of the flesh and so cool to austerity and zeal, so curious to hear what is new and to see the beautiful and so slow to embrace humiliation and dejection, so covetous of abundance, so niggardly in giving and so tenacious in keeping, so inconsiderate in speech, so reluctant in silence, so undisciplined in character, so disordered in action, so greedy at meals, so deaf to the Word of God, so prompt to rest and so slow to labor, so awake to empty conversation, so sleepy in keeping sacred vigils and so eager to end them, so wandering in your attention, so careless in saying the office, so lukewarm in celebrating, so heartless in receiving, so quickly distracted, so seldom fully recollected, so quickly moved to anger, so apt to take offense at others, so prone to judge, so severe in condemning, so happy in prosperity and so weak in adversity, so often making good resolutions and carrying so few of them into action.

When you have confessed and deplored these and other faults with sorrow and great displeasure because of your weakness, be firmly determined to amend your life day by day and to advance in goodness. Then, with complete resignation and with your entire will offer yourself upon the altar of your heart as an everlasting sacrifice to the honor of My name, by entrusting with faith both body and soul to My care, that thus you may be considered worthy to draw near and offer sacrifice to God and profitably receive the Sacrament of My Body. For there is no more worthy offering, no greater satisfaction for washing away sin than to offer yourself purely and entirely to God with the offering of the Body of Christ in Mass and Communion.

If a man does what he can and is truly penitent, however often he comes to Me for grace and pardon, “As I live, saith the Lord God, I desire not the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live”; Ezek. 33:11. I will no longer remember his sins, but all will be forgiven him.

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Faith & Family : Features : Don't Invite the Germs

2011-07-02T06:58:00.000-04:00

Faith & Family : Features : Don't Invite the Germs

It is amazing my family is still alive...Thank God that we haven't gotten too sick from bad germs...interesting article...

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

New Me/Old Me:

2011-06-24T20:55:00.009-04:00

On Feb 15th 2011 my momma died of kidney failure at age 86. For three weeks me and my seven siblings prepared her and ourselves for her passing.

Being the youngest I sat and waited and prayed...not to mention EAT. My four brothers dealt with my mom dying by cooking everything in sight. My three sisters took turns making my mom comfortable and giving her medications. I just sat and watched, prayed, and ate all kinds of comfort food. Then after she died I ate some more. This was just to add to the years of post baby pounds that crept up year after year...So on March 27th I declared that it was time to get fit. My girlfriend down the street had lost weight and she looked terrific. So I inquired what she did and she said The 17 Day Diet. So I ordered the book and got to work.

On March 27th I weighed 163 lbs and wore a size 16. My daughter is getting married in August and I wasn't pregnant so I got motivated and started exercising from 30 to 60 minutes a day.

Three months later I weigh about 130 lbs (lost about 33 lbs) and wear an size 8. I feel great and for the first time I am eating well.

You can read more here and here.

My kids are thrilled too to have a frig full of great fruits and veggies (thanks to ALDI's great prices) and my husband hasn't seen me this thin since we first got married.

Hope you are happy with yourself...God is Good!!!

Thy Will Be Done!!! +JMJ+

Switchfoot - Dare You To Move (Alt. Version)

2011-05-31T20:43:00.000-04:00

One of the songs that help me to run...DARE YOU TO MOVE...it helps get me going...

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Best Carmel Apple Ever:

2011-05-28T10:55:00.000-04:00

We have been making these for a couple of years. My daughter even got a proposal after a young man at our home tasted them.

We make them for gifts and teacher presents.

HINT: cut in small bite size pieces...

APPLE PIE APPLES:

we use the following recipe:
5 Granny Smith Apples (or what ever you have)
2 bags of caramel melts (follow directions)
sticks
1 bag white candy melts (or white, chocolate, or butterscotch chips)
2 cups brown sugar mixed with 2tsp cinnamon

Enjoy!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

God Helps those who love Him:

2011-05-27T19:48:00.000-04:00

"Be strong. therefore, and let not your hands be weak and slack, for your work shall be rewarded." 2 Chronicles 15:7

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and the needy" Proverbs 31:8-9

"Wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her." Proverbs 8

New American Standard Bible (©1995)
And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.

Offer it all up for your family and for Priest:

2011-05-27T07:47:00.003-04:00

I got to hear two speakers this week speak on the importance of mom's taking their daily sufferings and uniting them to Christ for the salvation of our families and for Priest.

Here are some notes I took. Make sure to check out their website here.

Fr Jordi Rivero

Through suffering we share deeper into our relationship with Christ.

Our faith has to be contagious!

Don’t be embarrassed to be catholic (Catechism:#853)

The narrow way of the cross is hard.

Early Christians believed in the power of the cross…so do we!

We must proclaim the truth and bring other closer to Christ.

At times when we are so wounded we need to embrace suffering not just walk away.

Jesus faces His cross and embraces it; we need to unite our sufferings to His cross.

He is empowering us to embrace our cross and the Love of God.

Suffering is our greatest tool to love.

It sounds strange but rejoice in suffering.

Say to the Lord, “I know you are with me”.

We are set free when we give ourselves to Christ in suffering. It is a terrible injustice by not trying to change our ways.

Let the Holy Spirit burn in our hearts and we can change others.

Luke 12:49

"I came to bring fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already set ablaze!

Let our fire consume others to fall in love with Christ.

We must learn to DISCIPLINE ourselves.

Become victims of love in our everyday life.

Nothing can stop us and our love for Jesus.

Our entire life belongs to Christ. Are we really ready to say yes and offer up our spirit to him?

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mrs.Lourdes Pinto (spoke on Spiritual Motherhood)

We must embrace our calling in life as women and mothers…this is our vocation.

Our most ordinary daily life actions…the tedious things that annoy us, we must united them with Christ.

Our prayers and sacrifices can help others, especially priest. The priest that God put in our lives as well as the priest we don’t even know.

St Terese the little flower at age 15 offered up many sacrifices for priest all over the world.

We live in a Domestic Monastery; this is where our lives can be transmitted by just hugging our children and doing our daily, mundane tasks for Christ.

A mother’s hands…there is infinite power in a mother’s hands. We must use our hands to bless our Children. Just as a priest’s hands are sacred so to a mother must transmit the love of Christ to her children with her hands.

As mothers we must make our life pure.

Turn everything into a prayer. Then we are in constant prayer turning everything to God for the purity of our family and for priests.

Try to make time for prayer. The sacraments, especially communion, also try to get to holy hour.

Satan wants to destroy motherhood and disregard our small tasks of love for our family.

Our mission field is our family and home…it is our Domestic Monastery.

Motherhood of the cross: Behold the handmade of the Lord

At the cross Mary is called Women…Christ gives her womanhood to all mankind. She becomes our mother and we become her children.

Mothers have so much to offer the world through their daily trials and struggles…we must use it to bear fruit.

Venerable Concepción (Conchita) Cabrera de Armida
archangelsfamily.org/heroes/conchita.html

She found joy in the cross, asked for souls, and had pure love.

John 15: How does Jesus love us?

We must be at the foot of the cross so our maternal heart can expand with love!

When we enter our spiritual mothering we can have room to add our intentions for priest. Priests are chosen instruments of God. They need our prayers and sacrifices; they are being attacked by Satan. They are our shepherds who lead us to heaven. We need priest to transform us to be holy and become saints!

God is choosing ordinary women like us to become warriors of love for our family, priests, and the world!

Mary crushed the head of Satan, we must be her heel!!!

To become prayer warriors, we must desire to become saints and live heroic lives in our HOME.

We will obtain a crown of glory in place of our suffering, provided we remember to offer up our suffering for Christ.

WE all have interiors suffering in our souls, even just offering up our hurt feelings is redemptive, when we unite our pain with Christ and offer it all up for our family and Christ’s beloved priests.

When we enter into Jesus’ heart we will find our pearl of great treasure.

When our children are complaining and we don’t have anything left to offer them ask Christ to turn our hearts of stone into soft loving hearts.

When a child refuses to eat or complains about food, don’t be bitter. Offer it up for those who don’t believe in the true presence of our Lord in the Eucharist.

Simple actions like these will turn our days into fruit for our family, priest, and the world.

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Mean and Ugly:

2011-05-26T08:23:00.003-04:00

Look who is calling me mean and ugly...
look in the mirror lately cutie pie?

Good thing I don't have any esteem issues:

My 3 year old told me I was mean and ugly this morning...

my husband has assured me...

I am not ugly...

hmmm...

Thy will be done!!! +JMJ+

Graduation 2011

2011-05-22T07:07:00.001-04:00

Mount Oak Graduation 2011, a photo by Beechwood Photography on Flickr.

Friday was a busy day...in the morning we had college master degree this is the afternoon highschool umbrella graduation...

A Day in the Life of a mom of 12!!!

2011-05-19T21:34:00.006-04:00

Another Busy Day ahead for our family on Friday.
First of all it will my husband and my 22nd Wedding Anniversary!!!
I will officially be married more than half my life to my best friend!!!

Rob and I renewing our vows on our 20th anniversary...yes, I was 6 months pregnant...

Secondly my oldest daughter is graduating with her masters in Social Work at 8:30am...

This picture was last year when she got her under grad degree...
Can't wait for this years picture...I am 24lbs lighter now!!!

Then, my forth child will be graduating from High School at 2:30pm...My Two Graduates this summer when Lizzie turned 16!!!

What a blessing to have so much wonderful stuff happen on a wonderful day!!!

Thank you honey for asking me to marry you and listening to God on how to raise our family!!!

God Bless you Alex and Lizzie!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Faith & Family Live! : E-mealz Goodness

2011-05-17T17:51:00.000-04:00

Faith & Family Live! : E-mealz Goodness

My Godson is getting Confirmed tonight:

2011-05-10T18:30:00.006-04:00

Please pray for my Godson Gabriel will be confirmed tonight under the name John Vianney.

PRAYER OF
ST. JOHN VIANNEY

I love You, O my God,

and my only desire is to love You

until the last breath of my life.

I love You, O my infinitely lovable God,

and I would rather die loving You,

than live without loving You.

I love You, Lord

and the only grace I ask is to love You eternally...

My God, if my tongue cannot say in every moment that I love You,
I want my heart to repeat it to You as often as I draw breath.
We love you Gabe...wish we were there!!!

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

St. Catharine of Bologna (1413-1463)

2011-05-09T19:34:00.001-04:00

Thanks Joann for sending this:

Catharine wrote a book on the seven spiritual weapons to be used against temptation.
"Jesus Christ gave up his life that we might live," she said.
"Therefore, whoever wishes to carry the cross for his sake must take up the proper weapons
for the contest, especially those mentioned here.
First, diligence;
second, distrust of self;
third, confidence in God;
fourth, remembrance of the Passion;
fifth, mindfulness of one's own death;
sixth, remembrance of God's glory;
seventh, the injunctions of Sacred Scripture
following the example of Jesus Christ in the desert"
(On the Seven Spiritual Weapons).

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

I Love you forever, I Like you for always, as long as Im living my mommy you'll be!

2011-05-07T15:58:00.004-04:00

This is gonna be a difficult Mother's Day. My mom died on Feb 15th and I miss her terribly. The following was given to me for Mother's Day from my 20 year old son.

MOTHER'S DAY 3 YEARS AGO

MY SEVEN SONS (kolbe in womb)

MY 12 BLESSINGS AND My wonderful husband who helped God make them!!!

by Joshua on Saturday, 07 May 2011 at 12:21

Dear mom,

Thank-you for the best 20 years of life a son could ask for. I am who I am today because of you...for better or for worse. haha, kidding, for better of course. Everyone tells me that my mom is amazing and still so young and beautiful...and a Saint and that she is their role model and super-hero; and that is all true but really you are the best mom in the world because you love all 12 of us with total and complete self giving. There is nothing you could ever do to love us more. You bring the definition of sanctity down to earth. You are an amazing example to every woman of fidelity and love to our awesome dad. Thank you so much for being us the light of the Catholic faith in both word and practice. Thank you for always being there, forever and always....

I Love you forever, I Like you for always, as long as I'm living my mommy you'll be

A mother is a person who seeing there are only four pieces of pie for five people, promptly announces she never did care for pie. ~Tenneva Jordan

All mothers are working mothers. ~Author Unknown

Mothers hold their children's hands for a short while, but their hearts forever. ~Author Unknown

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Party Platters:

2011-04-30T06:30:00.007-04:00

Getting ready for a big party tomorrow...open house for about 150 people...
my ninth child is receiving her FIRST HOLY COMMUNION,
my fourth child is graduating from High School,
my oldest with her Master's Degree...
So people will be coming and going from noon till 7pm...
gotta have lots of food that can be put out in shifts...
deli and fruit trays to start and grilling in the afternoon...
with tons of yummy stuff in between...
Hoping to make trays that look like this:

This party is mainly sponsored by ALDI's...three carts and lots of helpers...

THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+

The Diet That Finally Works:

2011-04-27T18:29:00.005-04:00

Where I work out...

My triathlete husband:

The book that is helping me:

Some of you know that have finally found a way to lose weight. I hope I keep it up because I feel great and the pounds are dropping.

See more here:

Hope you are feeling good about yourself too!!!

Thy will be done!!! +JMJ+

I don't feel 43:

2011-04-26T18:54:00.001-04:00

How to have a perfect 43rd b-day:

go to 6:30am mass at the chapel on the hill...
get a pedi with your daughter,
go to the gym with your daughter (4 ml),
have a great friend take 4 of your little kids,
lunch with your hubby,
shopping for landscape products,
and have a great dinner with family and friends.

Thy Will Be Done!!!+JMJ+

HE HAS RISEN...HE HAS RISEN INDEED!!!

2011-04-23T23:59:00.000-04:00

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Jesus - Mary Did You Know Video - The Passion

2011-04-22T08:11:00.001-04:00

UPDATE:
From a priest friend of mine:
Fr.Joe wrote "Mark Lowry admitted years ago that he wrote the following line of his song as an attack against the Catholic teaching of the IMMACULATE CONCEPTION: "This child that you've delivered, will soon deliver you." I have banned it in my church and can in no way advocate the song for Catholics. It is pretty... but be careful of lyrics... Mary was already delivered... as the New Eve, she did know who Jesus was and why he was here. She cooperated in his redemptive work."

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

MOVIE REVIEW MONDAY:

2011-04-18T20:12:00.002-04:00

Fried Green Tomatoes:

Totally a classic. Teen and up...not just for chicks...
it's one of my hubby's favorites...
(That's why he calls me TWANDA!!!)
"The secret's in the sauce!!!"

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

Dessert treats:

2011-04-17T22:51:00.000-04:00

These are great when you are having a party with alot of little kids around.

Sand cups:

Ingredients:

2 cups milk

1 (3.5 ounce) package instant vanilla

pudding mix

1 (8 ounce) container frozen whipped

topping, thawed

1 (12 ounce) package vanilla wafers,

crushed

Directions:

1.	In a large bowl, combine milk and pudding mix. Beat with a whisk until well blended. Let stand 5 minutes.
2.	Add whipped topping and half of the crushed cookies and fold in.
3.	Place 1 Tablespoon crushed cookies into each cup. Fill cups 3/4 full with pudding mixture. Top with remaining crushed cookies. Refrigerate 1 hour. Decorate before serving.
4.	Suggested Decorations: small paper umbrellas, gummy worms, gummy sharks, candy stars, chopped peanuts.

No longer a teenager...

2011-04-15T11:26:00.004-04:00

What a looker, oh and Josh is in the picture too.

Go Terps!!!

Blue Steel

Hollister Model?

Passion Play

Stuebenville Trip

Organizing the Pantry

High School Graduation

What a great day...we love you so much. I know it has been a crazy year of transition for you. You have definitely made the best out of it. We are so proud of you. Thanks for trusting in our decisions and believing that God's Will will be done. Keep the faith and stay close to Christ!!!

Thy Will Be Done!!! +JMJ+

Movie Review Monday:

2011-04-11T02:36:00.002-04:00

RED:

If you like action and suspense than you would enjoy this. High school age in up...lots of shooting and some language. I really enjoyed this...sitting on the edge of my seat type movie.
GREAT CAST too.

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+

More on Dieting:

2011-04-07T12:30:00.005-04:00

So with Lent and all being here...and the fact that I am not pregnant...I decided to try to lose weight again. If you read this you know I have been feeling fat lately.

This is the longest in my almost 23 years of marriage that I have not been pregnant...weird and sad...another stage in life approaching...

So I checked out a new eating plan that my girlfriend was using... It is called the 17 Day Diet: I am just a newbie and can't tell you too much...but what I can tell you is that I am eating great, not hungry (yes craving stuff), feeling wonderful, and losing weight!!!

Some general guidelines for the first 17 days called ACCELERATE CYCLE:

1. One 8oz cup of hot lemon water (squeeze half a fresh lemon in cup)
2. 3 cups of green tea a day
3. All the fresh fruits and veggies you want (minus a few) and no fruit after 2pm
4. 2 sugar free pro-biotic foods a day (like Chobani fruit yogurt and Breakstone's Live Active)
5. Eight 8oz cups of water per day
6. 17 minutes of exercise a day
7. Right now the only meat I can eat is fish (I eat tuna & tilapia), turkey breast & ground turkey (lots of turkey tacos and turkey burgers), and chicken breasts.
8. The only "fat" I can use is olive oil and cooking spray

I am sure there is a bunch I forgot...but...I guess check the book out at the library and see what you think.

Good thing it is Lent...cuz I can do this...especially for 17 days. So far I have lost about a half a pound a day.

My triathlete husband (aka "dirty hippy" due to his crazy long hair) who runs 20 miles a day for fun has placed a bet... When I get to 149 he will get a haircut!!! I only have to lose another 4 lbs and my husband is getting nervous ...a deal is a deal!!! Now he keeps tempting me to eat pancakes, fries, and take me out to our favorite spot...5 Guys!!! I am woman...hear me roar!!!

This is my sweet hubby(the short one)...
his hair is down to his shoulders now...
ok, so he is cute anyway...but!!!

I was so excited today when I was at the store...two people told me I looked great and asked me if I lost weight!!! No, "Hey you look great for having 12 kids (but secretly you look like a fat cow if you only had 3 kids)..."

Hey I am so excited cuz I just ran 4 miles on the treadmill!!! So, I will keep you posted on what happens and send pictures of my handsome husband after his haircut.

Thy will be done!!! +JMJ+

Real Life Blogging:

2011-04-07T09:27:00.000-04:00

This is just after breakfast...

THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+