Bottled Ponderings

Midweek Daybook - The Valley Of Decision

2021-03-10T13:27:00.003-05:00

Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision! For the day of the Lord is near in the valley of decision - Joel 3:14

Outside My Window - bright and warm-ish.My front yard is a reminder that dried leaves need to be blown and grass needs to be grown. There's a massive patch under our maple tree that refuses to yield to my green thumb (hahaha, I don't have one!) It's quite the eye sore and may need professional help.

I'm Wearing - an over-sized sweatshirt, blue moto leggings, and my trusty Birkenstock Mayari, alleviator of plantar fasciitis pain with a hint of being fashion-forward. It's mid-life "athleisure" at it's finest.

I'm Listening To - surprising quiet. There's usually a cacophony of sound from children and toys and housekeeping tools. I will enjoy this moment while it lasts.

I'm Reading - nothing new. Digging into my Lent life pondering things, writing notes, soaking in mercy, anticipating hope, and napping in between.

I'm Looking Forward To - Spring Break! Despite the PTSD from a year of prolonged Spring Break, I'm welcoming this upcoming week. No major plans as we are still travel-limited but there's enough around here to explore and discover. Ohio is always an adventure and I'm thankful to live in such a scenic state with all its natural beauties.

I'm Pondering - the weight of decisions, especially the seemingly insignificant ones. The older I get, the more I feel entitled to a relief from small decisions. It's not healthy to feel entitled about certain things but all the same, some small decisions are tiresome and it might be my path to heaven. I feel aggrieved (and yes, selfish somehow) with these little things. What to do with leftovers, who's going to clean what, what load of laundry to wash, who's going to fold, red or white, and countless other mindless things that my feeble soul trips over. I think I'm decision-fatigued, is all. Every waking moment of our days are decision-laced and some of them, even the smallest once, can seem like a boulder when it's really just a grain of sand. Pray for me.

I'm Praying - for those who suffer from post-covid effects. Also the St. Joseph Novena starts today. I look forward to that feast day every year.

What's Cooking - pot roast. I need to grocery shop!

Mom Treat - the weekend! Hopefully I don't have to make decisions then hahaha. Oh, and the new Spring Collection line from my beloved home business. There's no official public release date but my stylist-exclusive preview bundle is supposed to arrive on Friday. I already have favorites.

Life In A Snap -

the thaw

Ohio is an outdoorsy person's paradise

a throwback photo from last year when we were hunting down toilet paper before we went to the park

Daybook - Spring Hopes

2021-03-02T17:50:00.000-05:00

Outside My Window - the sun deceives. There's a nip in the air despite the glare. I don't pin my hopes of Spring on these sunny days until at least May! 😀

I'm wearing - my other uniform, wool blend slacks and French terry hoodie. It is because of this blog entry that I get out of frumpy clothes.

I'm Listening To - my two boys bantering over who gets to do what as far as tidying the kitchen.

I'm Reading - the Bible (In A Year), day 61! All the mind-numbing numbering in Numbers was something I dreaded but Fr. Mike has a way of putting it all in perspective.

I'm Looking Forward To - the day after a new set launch in my side gig. So much happens between these launches and it's especially busy when it is at the beginning of the month. Between filing taxes, editing graphics for launch, party prep, mothering, homeschooling, housekeeping, etc...it's been a busy last few days. So tomorrow, I will take an "easy" day.

I'm Pondering - Jesus resting. I marvel at this human side of God. I've always wondered what it's like not to have the sensation of being tired. What would I do if I never got tired?! In hindsight, that may not be such a good thing. So we rest and there is nothing better, I think, than resting with Jesus. We can be tired together.

I'm Praying - for silent intentions, in your heart and mine, that's only known to God.

What's Cooking - tonight we are doing a quick steak dinner. Today's a good day not to have an elaborate dinner plan.

Mom Treat - last week a week of treats. I had two coffee dates, a breakfast date, and a Holy Hour date. with dear friends. This week, I'm not sure what treat will happen. I didn't make plans, maybe it's sacrifice week instead. It's Lent after all!

Life In A Snap - an afternoon outdoors after what felt like a long Winter.

Daybook - This Side Of Eden

2021-02-22T14:00:00.002-05:00

Outside My Window - the usual Winter clouds but warmer than the last few weeks. The melting snow makes for a slippery step, the slurry of melt and mud erasing the beauty we beheld for so long.

I'm Wearing - the usual uniform of sweatshirt dress and fleece leggings. I need my comfort clothes that takes me from home to public without looking frumpy. The older I get, the more my vanity shines.

I'm Listening To - praise playlist. Mondays need a healthy dose of Jesus to start my week right

I'm Reading - the Lenten Companion by Ascension Press. One of my friends bought it for our mom group. Not gonna lie, it is a challenging devotional. There's no happy-clappy feelings here, at least not for me. It's all about digging in, facing and asking hard questions. I've cried and cried some more. But through the tears is God's mercy and providence as I see all He has done for me. This is exactly the devotional I need this year.

I'm Looking Forward To - all the Lent events. Adoration, Holy Hours, Stations of the Cross...all of it. Whereas the world offer fleeting joys and temporary outrages, the church offers consolation and redemption.

I'm Pondering - see what I'm Reading above.

I'm Praying - the St. Michael novena for the young people in my life. They need that angelic patronage more than ever.

What's Cooking - NOTHING! We cooked a big batch of food last night. In part, for my oldest to bring back to uni. He was home for a visit. I can't believe he is almost finished his first year of college. He was happy to eat home-cooked meals and requested some faves which we were more than happy to oblige.

Mom Treat - coffee dates this week. I'm so thankful for these small opportunities to not only get out of the house but have adult conversations and catching up with friends.

Life In A Snap -

once a year, at the beginning of Lent, I get my This Side Of Eden fix to remind me of the many retreats I spent at this Benedictine Abbey in Canada. Set on a hill overlooking the Fraser Valley, this place has seen me through so many moments of joy and despair. It's comforting not just to see the abbey but the many familiar faces in this documentary. I miss it but I'm always thankful for the memories and the work the Lord has done in my life through those retreats.

snow days are baking days

sun and snow in the Winter is a blessing

a Valentine's day feast courtesy of a caterer-friend

Daybook - Snowbound

2021-02-15T14:05:00.002-05:00

Outside My Window - a lot of snow and more on the way. I haven't seen the dormant grass on my yard in awhile. The weatherman predicted up to 8 inches of snow. I wouldn't mind another snow day.

I'm Wearing - gray velvet fleece leggings, hooded tunic, cabin socks, gaiter doubling as headband. Another Ohio winter uniform on this cold holiday Monday.

I'm Listening To - the laundry spin cycle. Which means my house is unusually silent for having all five kids at home and a husband who is off from work. Maybe I should check in and see what quiet mischief they are all working on hahaha

I'm Reading - and finished Hallie Lord's new book. I've decided to support some of my favorite gals even if their story does not always resonate with me. And Hallie is one of those people. We have a few things in common but something about her mix of joy, candor, and melancholy is something I appreciate. If nothing else, it opens me up to something new and my prayer life is all the more enriched by it.

I'm Looking Forward To - LENT. That's all there is to say about that.

I'm Pondering - how almost ironic that leading up to the feast of St. Valentine's, I have gotten prayer requests for floundering marriages and relationships. It always breaks my heart a little when marriages are hurting. I think as Christians we all share in the devastation of a broken sacrament.

I'm Praying - for all marriages, floundering or flourishing.

What's Cooking - a Filipino style stew with bone marrow and veggies and all the good things to warm cold bodies. Planning the usual Mardi Gras feast for tomorrow so lots of baking and bacon!

Mom Treat - a Winter hike. It's good for both body and soul.

Life In A Snap -

I think he's tired of playing in the snow

the unusual moments of sitting in the backseat with a cute kid

recess

Daybook - I Called, You Answered

2021-02-01T17:04:00.000-05:00

Once I said in my anguish, "I am cutoff from your sight", yet you heard the sound of my pleading when I cried out to you - Psalm 31-23

Outside My Window - snowpocalypse 2.0 after an icy, snowy, slushy weekend. The snow just started swirling again right before I had to pick up my middle child from school. The roads were a bit dicey this morning but I survived the drive.

I'm Wearing - the best $25 I ever spent on clothes with a hooded sweatshirt dress, fleece-lined on the inside and blanket like on the outside. I'm of the mind that there is no bad weather, just bad gear. My snow gear needs to stand up to Ohio weather. For the rest of my ensemble, fleece-lined leggings, dangling earrings, and my tiara-like headband.

I'm Listening To - chatter between my husband and kids

I'm Reading - nothing of note other than the usual devotionals. I'm perusing my bookshelves to plan Lenten reading.

I'm Looking Forward To - virtual school days this week for my boy. He is the only one who is on campus everyday but these next few days they are all-virtual. I'm a homeschool mom at heart so when my kids are all home my heart is happy.

I'm Pondering - see above Scripture passage. It's from today's Mass readings and I was so struck by how true this is in my life. It's a reminder for me that once I'm done with the pity party, the Lord is still there waiting for me to snap out of it. I promise, my thoughts were more deep and eloquent than that lol.

What's Cooking - my daughter has a slow roast in the crockpot and she also baked a chocolate cake. Life is good for this mama on this Monday.

Homeschool Is Cool - seven wonders of the ancient world and such and some Lenten planning happening.

Mom Treat - one of the things I've splurged on is pre-made salads. I don't know about you but I usually have no appetite for foods I make. I love salads and I love it even more now that the grocery store makes it for me, saving me time, giving me variety, and making me eat something healthy.

Life In Snapshots -

the calm before the winter storm

yummy treat

senior night at our nephew's hockey game

Daybook - A Few Of My Favorite Things

2021-01-25T16:22:00.001-05:00

Outside My Window - back to the usual Winter Monday, cold and cloudy. The freezing rain last night made for an "exciting" drive this morning. More wintry weather on the way. As much as I would like to complain about the weather, there's something comforting about days like these. Hiding under warm blankets and books and podcasts and dreams that only a day at home can bring.

I'm Wearing - ocean blue moto leggings, black tunic length hoodie, birkenstocks, silver and rose gold earrings

I'm Listening To - my boys quizzing each other on their spelling words and laughing at the intentional misspellings and mispronunciations

I'm Reading - I've had so many books thrown my way this week. All good, devotionals and meditation books. That's what my current state of mind and spirit needs right now.

I'm Looking Forward To - reading and praying through abovementioned books with my bro moms. Our kids call themselves the bro squad so we are naturally called bro moms. We're doing a St. Joseph consecration and Lent prep together. It will probably be mostly on Zoom or Marco Polo. At the height of pandemic last year, Marco Polo saved our sanities. How do you stay in touch with your friends?

I'm Pondering - I'm all pondered out and it's only Monday. Today is ora et labora day. I try not to overthink the ora part too much. The Lord moves where He wishes and my heart is open. It's a good day to just listen.

I'm Praying - for the usual suspects hahaha. A few added intentions from prayer requests received last week.

What's Cooking - probably leftovers because we have enough that need to be consumed. I haven't made the much needed grocery trip so add "meal planning" to my chores today.

Homeschool Is Cool - fractions and polygons and the ensuing laughter at our inability to draw anything past pentagon. All crooked lines and miscounted segments. We are math failures today.

Mom Treat - I've been binging on Asian (martial arts) movies and I have yet to find something that does not end in tragedy so I need a different treat! Maybe I should revisit old Jet Li or Jackie Chan movies.

A Few Of My Favorite Things In Photos - if you have known me for awhile you know my history of posting seasonal favorites. I've let that go by the wayside but today is a good day for a comeback. So, here we go:

Dr. Brandt Pores No More Primer - I've worn different primers courtesy of my Ipsy subscription. This one is currently my number one favorite. I've had a Marc Jacobs on my wish list for awhile but I just erased it after using this one. The formula is light with the correct amount of tint, it's non-drying and perfect when I'm on the go and need just a hint of luminous coverage. It works really well with my favorite Pur foundation.

Ijoy Logo - Good budget bluetooth headphones, and its rose gold! One of my kids asked for this on their birthday and after borrowing it, I knew I need one for me. It's comfortable to both head and ears, good sound quality, long-lasting charge. I've been enjoying listening to music and podcasts while I'm doing chores.

OGX Teatree Mint Shampoo - Winter is hard not just on my skin but on my scalp. My daughter is an OGX brand fan and wanted to try a new scent. This shampoo is soooo good, it's non-drying, does not weight the hair down and that tingly mint feeling on the scalp is everything! My scalp is no longer itchy and dry. I have yet to try the matching conditioner but my daughter approves so I assume it is good.

Etsy Disc Necklace - if you are looking for an affordable present for yourself or somebody else, I highly recommend these customizable initial necklaces. I bought one with my husband's and my initials and I couldn't be happier with the quality. Delivery was also lightning fast. The Etsy shop is here - https://www.etsy.com/shop/QQ47

Ohio Stamped Bracelet - Also from Etsy, I first saw this worn by a Color Street stylist and I knew I had to get one. Ohio's been my home now for over 20 years so I have to represent! Etsy store here - https://www.etsy.com/shop/CarettaCoastCo

Daybook - The Trespassing Friend

2021-01-19T14:22:00.005-05:00

"Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift." - Matthew 5:23-24

Outside My Window - what is this bright orb that illumines this day?! I can't remember the last time I saw the sun but here it is. It melted the light dusting of snow on the ground and highlights the fact that windows need to be washed and dust bunnies need banishing.

I'm Wearing - a bright pink/orange fleece pullover, sherbet-like almost, that is blinding to the eyes but excellent for summoning a good mood. If I had known the sun would show up I would have worn something less retina-burning. But my brain is happy. Wool pants and birkenstocks, and the most beautiful glass-like nail art ever created with dry nail polish. I told you I'm in a happy mood.

I'm Listening To - central heating. My boys are outside slaying whatever imaginary foes lurk in the backyard. I haven't heard any screaming or fighting so I will assume all is bliss.

I'm Reading - still working on the Victoria Arlen book I mentioned at last week's daybook.

I'm Pondering - anger (see above Scripture quote). I cannot tell you how many angry posts I have read on social media just this last week. It saddens me to see that people are prepared to lose bonds of friendship over politics. I cannot imagine telling someone in the face that we can no longer be friends because of who they voted for. Do we really have the courage to tell people to their faces that they are no longer our friend because of their political affiliation? Can we go knock on their door, look them in the eye and tell them in person instead of spewing our indignance on our keyboards and screens? I don't know. It is all too much. I reserve real anger for evil and I can honestly say I do not know anyone who is evil enough to say we can no longer be friends. After all, I would be lying if I carry this hatred in my heart yet plead for the Father everyday to forgive my trespasses if I cannot forgive another for the perceived trespasses they have inflicted on me, political or otherwise.

I'm Praying - for forgiveness. Because we all need it. For my friend and her family who lost her husband to covid. It's not my loss to write about so I won't write any more only to ask that if you are the praying kind please pray for my friend Tiffany and her five children.

The Week Ahead - laundry and purging clothes and toys that no longer serve us. I find no emotional connection to things and toys that are past their prime so it's easier to purge with a sense of detachment.

What's Cooking - a slow roast in the oven. I always enjoy the kind of cooking that involves little prep and attention but with a promise of great flavor. Asian cooking tends to be very labor intensive so I save those for days that I'm not running around. Maybe this weekend.

Homeschool Is Cool - back to the usual grind but I have to look back at old notes for some fun artsy and also science-y things to do. Winter is the right time to do these exciting things.

Mom Treat - Holy Hour Adoration date with mom friends. If that is not the ultimate mom treat, I don't know what is.

Life Snaps - how is it that I haven't taken a lot of photos? Here's the lone one worth posting here

Daybook - A Day Late

2021-01-12T20:26:00.004-05:00

Outside My Window - Oh hey, it's another Winter day that's gloomy and cloudy and cold as heck!

I'm Wearing - a black thermal tunic and fleece-lined leggings in a crazy print that I absolutely love. One of these days my chronological age will catch up with my brain age. For now, crazy print it is to keep me feeling alive and youthful.

I'm Listening To - my boys discussing swords and hammers. Boy stuff in a mostly boy household. The swish of a dishwasher that my husband just loaded and ran.

I'm Reading - I'm about to crack open a new book I picked up after the author spoke at Color Street's kickoff conference. The book is Locked In: The Will To Survive and the Resolve To Live by Victoria Arlen. I was really moved by her story having been locked in a body in a seemingly vegetative state but a mind that is fully aware. I may have shed a few tears at a dry nail polish conference! Here's another link that details some of her life story -https://aleteia.org/2018/09/18/while-seemingly-locked-in-a-vegetative-state-espns-victoria-arlen-relied-on-prayer-to-survive

I'm Pondering - all that's happened around me shortly after the New Year. The tragedy of a friend losing her husband suddenly to covid, the events and unrest at the capital, more people around me getting sick with the virus, pleas for prayers from friends who are suffering distress for one reason or another. I don't think it's coincidence that we are reading through the Book of Job at Bible In A Year. A book that did not have a tidy, happy ending, answering all the mysterious ways of God. As emotionally and mentally exhausting our world has become and feeling it even more as I read through the emotionally and mentally exhausting book of Job, I'm also finding myself getting deeper into the meaning of "surrender". A surrender to God's plan, a more courageous resolve to cooperate with His work in my life, and an intense desire to live as the saints lived.

I'm Praying - "Lord, make me a saint!" For now, that's the only prayer that matters in my life.

The Week Ahead - putting away ALL Christmas decoration. Our live Christmas tree and outdoor decorations were were taken down last week but we still have the fake one up. Lots of tidying, organizing, and purging in the next few days as we move a child to college campus.

What's Cooking - ribs for dinner at the request of moving child.

Homeschool Is Cool -paring down our topic for composition. One child is an eager writer, the other not so much. I've always had a mix of reluctant and eager students in this household, it's nothing new so I should probably get used to it.

Mom Treat - I have to think about this for the week. It's been rough with unexpected car repairs, and other real life things that's dampening an already sour mood. Maybe if I can scoot over to Holy Hour, it could be my treat for the week.

Life Snaps -

covid-19 testing before campus arrival

despite the heartbreaking loss to Alabama my nails were on point

one last disc golf family match before dropping off this dude to be an adult

Daybook - New Year, New Tears

2021-01-04T16:45:00.003-05:00

Outside My Window - it's a Monday in Winter, so it goes to follow that it's cloudy and cold. Will next week's daybook be sunny? A girl can dream. I don't mind it so much if I feel well but on a day like today when I'm a bit under the weather and can't go for a walk it is not helpful.

I'm Wearing - wool blend pants, black cardigan and a hole-y shirt under. Didn't realize the holes until I took off my cardigan so the remedy was just put it back on lol. I love my Loft tees, hole-y or not. A grey knit cap because it's cold in Ohio.

I'm Listening To - the steady hum of our old desktop computer. It's probably on its last leg but with all our laptops, phones, and tablets I don't foresee replacing it.

I'm Reading - the Bible In A Year. So technically speaking it's a podcast but I do read along with the chapters for the day. It's packed and informative and I'm learning new things and re-learning things that I've forgotten.

I'm Pondering - that passage on Genesis 3:21, The LORD God made for the man and his wife garments of skin, with which he clothed them. Not gonna lie, I ugly cried A LOT on this chapter having recognized myself in some of the more intricate drama of this chapter. The Father's love replacing the fig leaves with animal skin (an animal, of whom Adam and Eve was originally stewards of, was sacrificed) before banishing them from the garden. There's just so many layers in this deep chapter that pierced my heart with the gravity not just of sin but of God's love. To ponder both, in my case, was to shed so many tears.

What's Cooking - spaghetti for dinner because it's National Spaghetti Day!

The Week Ahead - preparing to move our oldest in to college campus after a semester of virtual studies. Will I cry over that too? Probably!

Homeschool Is Cool - we bought the boys new story books as Christmas gifts so we are excited to crack those open. We didn't go back to school today as I haven't been feeling well. We should be good to go tomorrow.

Mom Treat - a dark roast Tim Horton's coffee. Because it's Monday and Mondays need a strong jolt of caffeine.

Prayers - I feel like covid is closing in on us with so many we personally know who have tested positive, most symptomatic. So we are praying for the end of this pandemic, friends who have asked for intercessory prayers, and of course, to a better year ahead.

Life Snaps-

coffee

more coffee lol

chatting with the fam in Canada and Asia on New Year's Eve

out and about on a beautiful December day

my confused fashion sense at home, let's call this Winter Tropical fusion

this won't be a daybook if I don't post my mani from the previous week

A 2020 Reflection

2020-12-31T23:23:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year, friends. It’s me again, the second child.

I hope that you found small joys and true rest and peace in the abundance of downtime that 2020 brought. I hope that this coming year will be one of joy and peace and relief. I am so, so excited for all that this year is already offering me, but more on that another time. Right now, I want to share some of the things I am learning. I had a lot of time to think and reflect during this past year, and I came to so many good realizations and I have grown so much. I am still growing, which is good. There is an abundance of goodness in learning and growth and it is so insanely rewarding to see change in oneself. Anyways, here we go. I tried to fit in as much as I could remember at the time, but I have absolutely no doubt that there is so much more that I haven’t included.

I am learning the value of rest. That it is okay to stop and relax. That I don’t need to be busy and working at every moment. The world isn’t going to end if I take some time to sleep or lay down and do nothing for a little while.

I am learning that not everything can be planned, not every conversation can be scripted. Heavy thought isn't required in every single situation. That there is goodness in spontaneity, and unplanned events tend to bring some of best memories.

I am teaching myself to slow down and breathe. To step back and look at things from a distance so I can see my work in it's entirety instead on focusing on every imperfect detail, because I will never achieve perfection. It’s like looking at a painting. With every step back, it looks prettier and prettier and it comes together nicely But when you look at it up close, you notice all of the imperfections.

I am learning the importance of language. To not use extremes like “I have to” and “I need to,” but instead, words like “it would be good to” and “it would be helpful to.” How our language and tone helps convey emotions and feelings in a clearer sense.

I am learning that life isn’t black and white, that there are an infinite amount of options and outcomes for every situation. Like how there are an infinite amount of points between any other two points on a line (that lesson always stuck out to me in math class, and now I understand why).

I am learning that not everything is always as it seems. Multiple perspectives should be heard, if not all, and they should be heard with an open mind and heart. They should not be shut down. There is always multiple sides to a story, and if someone is hurting, then their hurt is valid and they are just as worthy of comfort and love no matter their stance versus another’s. We are all made in the image and likeness of Christ and we are all human. Jesus holds a special place for each and every one of us and will never stop longing for us and loving us unconditionally. He calls us to do the same, no exceptions.

I am learning not to reflect so much and concern myself with past mistakes. That it is okay to make mistakes. I try to tell myself that I did what I thought was best or what I could do at the time, and as long as I tried and it was my best then it is okay. If I am aware of my mistakes, that means I am capable of growing past them and changing if I haven’t already, and that is something to celebrate.

I am learning to let people love me and help me and care for me. That I can’t go through life alone. I was made aware of my tendency to not let people in, and I've reflected on that a lot recently because I know it's true. But I am growing from that. I am learning. My friend reminded me a few months ago that we are made for community, we aren’t meant to be alone. We are made to love and for love. I'm learning what it is to be a part of a community.

I am learning to surrender my chronic overthinking and planning to Jesus. To place all of my worries in His hands and to let Him take control. Complete surrender is a scary thing, especially for someone who is a bit of a control freak and likes to push people away in favor of independence. But I am trying and reminding myself that it takes time and practice and that ultimate joy and peace comes in following the will of the Father. I am trying to remind myself that God’s timing is perfect and He has a plan through all of the uncertainty, so my worries and plans aren’t necessary and the best I can do is have faith and trust. here’s a note to self I made in a recent journal entry: don’t avoid prayer/adoration/Jesus. you will never feel better by doing so. you will only find relief in Him

I am learning to see Jesus in everything. That He can work through anyone and anything. That He reveals Himself and His love in so many ways. That He is present in everything. In cotton candy sunsets, in warm breezes. In good moments and in bad. In my late night ponderings the other night I was thinking about how Jesus is goodness. He is incapable of error, and even though we may suffer, He is the good in suffering. The small moments of relief and rest, the strength to go on, and lessons and growth that come from suffering. He is there every step of the way. Even when we struggle to see the good in our suffering, it is there. He is there.

2020 was not the year any of us had in mind, but it was a year of growth and lessons and I am thankful for so many of my experiences this year. I hope you all have something good to remember when you look back on this year, that there were blessings in the storms. And if you are struggling to find something good, it is good that you are still here. Surviving this year is an accomplishment in itself and you should be celebrating. I am praying for you all <3

in honor of Mama Mary's feast day being January 1st, here's a photo from when I visited the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in January

so so many pictures of sunsets and clouds this year but these clouds were unreal and i wish i could have captured them in their full glory

ps. here’s a link to my worship playlist on Spotify, I just felt called to share it. It’s still very much incomplete, but it’s one of those things that will be ever growing as Jesus shares more of Himself with me and more music is released and I discover more. anyways, enjoy :))))

p.p.s. if you listen to it and wanna share anything or wanna share any lessons you’ve learned this year or a good memory or literally anything it all, i would love to hear it. you know where to find me! (and if you don't, you can comment here. or reach out to my mama if you know her personally & she will relay any messages to me hehe)

Daybook - Pondering The Out Of Tune Singer

2020-12-28T13:28:00.004-05:00

Outside My Window - all vestiges of a White Christmas are puddled and messy as the temps have risen since our county went into Level 1 snow emergency on Christmas Eve. But what a beautiful eve it was despite the somewhat perilous trek to Midnight Mass. All I have are memories on my camera and in my heart and mind.

I'm Listening To - a teen-ager's phone playing American Pie. Our musical taste have heavily influenced our kid's playlists. Every so often I get updated on what's hip by exchanging lists with them, keeps me young and unnecessarily hip for my age. I must admit enjoying Taylor Swift's album with a Bon Iver cameo. Can't go wrong with Bon Iver.

I'm Reading - purposely avoiding any political things. I'm still working my way through the re-read of Joy To The World (Scott Hahn) but mostly light reading to inspire my creative juices for the upcoming year.

I'm Wearing - linen lounge pants, a dri-fit top, and my Stella & Tide Bravely necklace. This was a present for myself to celebrate an incredible year with Color Street. When I first signed up with them I knew I wanted Saint Zelie Martin to be my business patron. Mother of saints and business owner, how could I not want to emulate that? Anyhow when I saw the Bravely necklace while shopping for my daughter (she's a Stella fan) I knew I had to get it. I love the beautiful sentiment behind the piece which is a quote from Saint Zelie - "The good Lord does not do things by halves; He always gives what we need. Let us, then, carry on bravely"

I'm Pondering - the introspection of Advent had me going into the Christmas season aware of my failings and weaknesses in all aspects of my life. I was feeling pretty low on the way to Mass trying to sort out everything in prayer. As Mass got underway, a very enthusiastic singer a couple of pews away had me chuckling out of my morose mood. I wasn't internally laughing because of the admittedly not very good singing. To preface this, I'm a bit spoiled having grown up in a culture that is historically musical. Our parish also happens to have one of the best choirs in the diocese. Whether it be music or life, there's certain part of me that seeks all these perfections to feed that emotional (also selfish) part of me. So when the imperfect singing commenced behind me, there was that instant realization that my perceived failings really deserve the mercy of the imperfect. Because in the imperfection I knew more than ever that I needed help, I needed God. The laughter I was trying to contain wasn't because the singing was bad but at the realization that I don't deserve the perfect singing. I deserved this out-of-tune yet wholehearted baritone as an analogy to my out-of-tune life. And there's the joy, through the imperfect, God seeks me in love, out of my self-pity and into the joy of the life in tune with His. I have never been more thankful and joyful for the less than perfect pitch. So today, sing your joy!

I'm Looking Forward To - wearing a sparkly outfit on New Year's Eve, at home. Because why the heck not?!

Mom Treat - in photo

Prayers - continuing prayers for friends. A better 2021.

Snapshots -

Daybook- I'm Dreaming Of A White Christmas

2020-12-22T10:24:00.003-05:00

I started writing this yesterday, hence the reference to the Christmas star. I finally have a moment to sit and finish so this is now a two-day daybook!

Outside My Window - a slight wind making twigs and ornament decorations sway in an almost hypnotic fashion. Winter clouds that will obscure our ability to catch a glimpse of the "Christmas Star".

I'm Listening To - the whirring of the holographic Christmas star on top of our tree. It does this revolving thing that makes noise but casts a pretty kaleidoscope of color on the ceiling. It always bothers me the first few days it's up but eventually becomes white noise in a house of many loud and happy occupants. My boys chattering on about a game they are playing.

I'm Reading - Scott Hahn's Joy To The World. It's just appropriate this time of year.

I'm Wearing - I added this part so it will force me to get out of ratty clothes on Mondays! Suede leggings that are buttery soft and warm and everything a good pair of leggings should be. A tunic top, my 2020 Hot Chocolate jacket (virtual this year), black and gold Puma suede sneakers. A knit cap to hide my ratty hair and a pale pink leather drop earrings, big and light, and everything I like in a jewelry.

I'm Pondering - that babe born in a manger and how in the hubbub of the holidays I sometimes forget to linger there. Don't let anyone or anything steal the peace of this season. Linger there in the quiet for a minute or two, longer if you have the luxury.

I'm Looking Forward To - just a quiet rest of the week. All presents have been wrapped. All shopping done. All treats consumed lol, okay not ALL, yet. Maybe I should look forward to exercising after all of the good stuff! Oh, and the possibility of a White Christmas?! We'll see!

What's Cooking - for Christmas Eve dinner I am making a rib roast. I somewhat botched the recipe last year, so I'm giving it another go with a different recipe and cooking method. Cheesecake and other yummy things for the fam.

The Week Ahead - bake, cook, eat, repeat! Cleaning will have to be in there somewhere.

Homeschool Is Cool - school's out!

Mom Treat - a breakfast date with my middle child. Even during break he doesn't sleep in so we have been catching the worm, so to speak. It's a real treat to have these one on one moments with our kids and the fact that they still enjoy my company every now and then.

Prayers - continuing prayers for friends who have covid. For a friend who's child passed away suddenly this past week. Many broken hearts. For the end to this pandemic and for the easing of the burdens it has placed on so many. Thanksgiving, because through it all I am loved simply because of me. Thank you Jesus.

Christmas Week Snapshots -

We didn't see the Christmas star but downtown was the star of our night

you're really supposed to ignore the fireplace so you can admire my manicure

no sleeping in for early birds!

Daybook - Pondering Love

2020-12-07T09:41:00.002-05:00

"I am definitely loved and whatever happens to me, I am awaited by love. And so, my life is good" - St. Josephine Bakhita

Outside My Window - I feel as if every Monday these last few weeks have all been cloudy and gloomy. Today, I see a hint of blue and a promise of sunshine. All is calm, no wind to disturb the twigs and leaves on the ground. The glint of Christmas ornaments on our maple tree makes me happy.

I'm Listening To - A Christmas/Advent playlist on Spotify. It's a combination of classics and contemporary renditions from Burl Ives to Jars of Clay, with a splash of Canadiana by way of The Huron Carol and a Christmas jig by Ashley McIsaac. And it won't be my playlist if there's no Wexford Carol.

I'm Reading - some fluff on my Kindle Paperwhite that I randomly picked up but I'm going to dig in and finish Cardinal Sara's book that's been stewing there as well.

I'm Pondering - the opening salvo of my Advent and Christmas devotional asked what I hoped to achieve during this season. It's the same question every year, and every year it stumps me. I bring this weighty question to prayer and it's slowly being revealed to me. I have a trouble with love it seems. It has been specially hard under the oppression of pandemic life. Charity asks a lot of us. It asks a lot of me, in and out of my bubble. To love without asking for anything in return. To give and to serve tirelessly, despite my rebellious heart. More and more I am realizing the genius of true love as it comes from the heart of God. "I am awaited by love, and so my life is good"

I'm Looking Forward To- actually finishing decorating. We got our tree the other day, it's up but there are no lights because we apparently don't have any working ones! I am so happy to see again my small Christmas tree collection. Speaking of trees, fun fact- we have two 6-foot fake trees, one of which we bought on clearance eons ago and have yet to see the light outside the original box. I might put it out on my front porch. We'll see.

What's Cooking - I have a rib eye roast sitting on my counter as I type. I was going to dredge and cure in salt but may check out another recipe.

The Week Ahead- lots of laundry and maybe, finally, switching our clothes to reflect the weather. I'm still wearing khaki shorts at home on days I don't have to go anywhere.

Homeschool Is Cool - these next few weeks I just want crafty, happy things. Our brains are fried from long division LOL.

Mom Treat- squee!!! I finally got myself a new Winter jacket. I lamented for two years about how my favorite Lands' End coat has seen better days after eleven years of wear. And I kept holding out for sales on the good stuff, Columbia, North Face, Uniqlo, and L.L. Bean. I was almost ready to commit to a Uniqlo but then Lands' End, probably seeing my constant visit to the outerwear section of their website, sent me a coupon for 60 percent off. It took the coat I'm salivating over from $200 to $87! It's the updated version of my previous beloved and I can't wait to get it! With a name like Squall Insulated Waterproof Stadium Long Winter Coat With Hood, can you blame me?! Oh and the fun part? I bought it with my nail earnings. Adulting happiness right there, and I actually hate the word adulting.

Prayers - for the end to this pandemic. For friends who have covid. For private intentions as we continue to pray the St. Andrew novena.

Advent Time Snapshots - wherein I share my usual photos

Daybook- First Monday Of Advent

2020-11-30T14:47:00.003-05:00

We lost power while I was typing this Daybook so it's now officially an afternoonbook 😀

Outside My Window - bleak skies, tree branches fluttering in the slight wind, wet snow falling on a day made for bundling under warm covers.

I'm Listening To - a praise music playlist my daughter made for me.

I'm Reading - devotional for Advent . I've been using this book for years and it hits me in different ways every year.

I'm Pondering - "what are you hoping to achieve this Advent?" asked my Advent devotional. My prayer journal needs more pages lol. I feel as if my spiritual goals are not just the same every year, but every waking hour of my life.

I'm Looking Foward To- moonlit walks in the snow. I have yet to do that. Maybe it will happen this week, the season has just begun.

What's Cooking - stews and soups on a week that has snow on the forecast. Baking also on the plans, I may have bought everything on the baking aisle in preparation for a snowy week.

The Week Ahead - mailing nails after my Black Friday sale, slowly bring up the Christmas decorations and my beloved dinnerware sets. Lots of scheduled down time after a super busy November. If I sell only one nail set for December, I think I won't mind. It's that time of year that I need the most quiet.

Homeschool Is Cool- we finished the life of Edmund Campion so we are picking a new book. Our shelves are groaning with good reads. I think my boys already forgot long division after just a few days of break. So I guess more long division lol.

Mom Treat - I have movies on the queue so that will be my treat for the week.

Prayers - today begins the St. Andrew/Christmas novena. For the end to this pandemic and many private intentions for one and all.

Advent Time Snapshots- wherein I share my usual photos

day time walks are now replaced by dusk walks to view Christmas lights in the neigborhood

He is still not relinquishing the outdoor decorating. I love this young man.

sharing some outdoor cheer

some art direction for my sale

Renewing The Daybook

2020-11-23T09:31:00.003-05:00

After my daughter posted the last entry, I've decided I do want to keep this blog going. With all the scrolling we have been doing on social media, I'm ready to slow the scroll and write again. It's good for my soul, it's good for my brain, and it's good for my heart! So here we go...committing to Monday Daybook.

Outside My Window - barren trees, the sky is covered with clouds. With pandemic in our midst, it's almost comforting to see all the cars on our street signaling that people are home, working remotely in all likelihood. It's a beautiful Monday outside my window.

I'm Listening To - for now quiet except for the hum of central heating. I'm looking for a good podcast for Advent. I still regret not buying full access to the Catholic Mom's Summit when it was discounted. I may still splurge on it as a Christmas present to myself. The few talks I was able to listen to for free brought me such joy, peace, and inspiration.

I'm Reading - NOTHING! Outside of the usual devotional, I haven't really opened a good book in a while. I did recently purchase Mrs. Darwin's book Unstable Felicity so that will be my first read as a treat (see Mom Treat below)

What's Cooking - it's cheesecake baking week! I haven't yet planned the meals for the week. We are experiencing in my household what we call food apathy. Having lived the "treat life" as a balm to our pandemic woes, nothing has been tasting good, even the usual household faves. We need to fast to recover our taste for food again and Advent is the perfect time to do just that. What are you cooking?

The Week Ahead - decorating for Christmas is on the plans, I have an upcoming Black Friday sale in my nail group. Remember all my previous posts on nails? Well, I bit the bullet in January and became a stylist for Color Street. I've moved up a rung with the fancy title of senior stylist. I cannot even begin to tell you how much joy this new venture has given me. It's a fit for my personality and I love being creative again. Other than that, lots of cleaning and tidying. I'm looking forward to bringing out the Christmas dinnerware, seeing all my Christmas tree collection, and my husband's Santa collection. It will be a fun busy.

Homeschool Is Cool- we always slow our schooling for Thanksgiving week. Lots of long division, finishing up the life of Edmund Campion and then it's all prep chores as detailed above.

Mom Treat - I need this so badly. I've decided to treat myself to silence once a week. Technology will be off except to update my nail gals on daily restock but after than just a lot of silence, soaking in Advent.

Prayers - for the end to this pandemic. For a friend who's husband has covid, expected stay at the hospital until Christmas Eve. Praying for a true Christmas miracle.

Ordinary Time - wherein I share my usual photos

getting the new kitchen table through the door

our new favorite spot

impromptu senior photo at the apple orchard

a favorite hike

Hot Chocolate run is virtual

lovely November evening sky

Confirmation after a long wait

In Lieu of 30 Days of Thanks

2020-11-16T14:07:00.008-05:00

Welcome back, friends. It's been while. It's the second child here, writing another post for my mom to make up for our lack of 30 Days of Thanks posts; a tradition we're breaking for the first time in four years. I made an appearance here in June with a very brief recap of our family camping trip, but aside from that it's been almost a year since either Mom or I have posted anything. So in lieu of 30 Days of Thanks, here's a jumbled post of life updates, lessons I've learned recently, and some things I'm thankful for.

First things first, I'm now a senior in high school and all my work is online. All of my college applications are submitted with the exception of one; I just have some loose ends to tie up and then I'll be set. I declared my major to be biology and regretted doing so the instant I submitted my applications, even after two years of being certain I knew my path. I'm as lost as can be, so suggestions and prayers are welcome. My older brother graduated this past spring and is currently splitting his time between work and online classes. His college is fully remote. The rest of the family is doing well, just doing school and work and enjoying having so much time together.

Despite the earth-shattering pandemic, losing the end of my junior year, year, my junior frisbee season in which I was meant to captain our A team, a "normal" senior year, and not being able to see my friends half as much as I would have liked over the summer, I'm still thankful for quarantine. I came out of those few months of strict quarantine a completely different person. I've always been a strongly empathetic person but these days I find myself operating on empathy and patience towards others. I'm quieter and isolate myself more but also more thoughtful in what I do and I strive to find joy in each moment I'm given. That's not to say that quarantine wasn't hard; as someone with anxiety that's only become more severe as I've grown older with a tendency to draw close to sadness. I undoubtedly had my rough patches. But as I said before, I try to find goodness in the little things, like the way the sunlight streams through the blinds and how the wind rustles through the trees and seeing how excited everyone is about the fall weather because they get to go outside and enjoy it this year. Thanks to remote learning.

My school gave us the option to go in a few days a week, but I opted for full remote learning. It was a way to ease back into the school year without sending my anxiety into overload and to have a freer schedule. I haven't regretted my decision. Mostly anyway. Learning online is definitely harder and my grades consistently lower than they've been since Freshman year, but I credit that to my lack of motivation and inability to pay attention to school because why do that when I could just take a nap? But alas, remote learning is more peaceful and relaxing and very much something I need right now. I've also been blessed with a study hall before our lunch period which gives me an hour and a half off every day, sometimes two hours if my religion teacher lets us out early. I like to spend my break sleeping, driving, or going on walks. It isn't a very productive time for me. Still, I am thankful for the rest. I'm also thankful for my school and my teachers. It's been a hectic year, but they're doing their absolute best to keep us together as a community and to help us stay safe and healthy. I've been able to go in for a few club meetings, frisbee practices, open houses, and to help with our National Honor Society inductions. I love my school so much and I'm already dreading having to leave when I graduate in the spring. I'm so thankful for all the opportunities I still have to participate and be a part of the community.

I think one of the biggest changes I've undergone over the past few months is in my faith life. I've always had a strong faith and attended youth group, read daily readings, spent study halls praying in our school chapel, and helping plan school masses, but my faith life has been pretty stagnant over the past few years. I've been especially motivated to grow and deepen my faith recently since I became a confirmation sponsor to a family friend. One of the Catholic churches near my house has Eucharistic Adoration almost every day now, but once a week they offer a special hour with praise & worship music and confessions, called Adore. Over the summer I started to go to Adore and it's been so life changing. The music adds to it all, especially since I struggle to focus and the lyrics always hit right where I need them. I also discovered that some of my friends from school also go to Adore, and afterwards they all drive over to a grocery store in the neighborhood for snacks and fellowship. Sitting on the porch of the store trying rotisserie chicken flavored Pringles and talking about incorrupt saints with my friends who radiate love and the fire of the Holy Spirit fills me with so much joy, I've loved getting to spend that time with them. A few of them have been working on a new club at my school focusing on the revival and strengthening of the faith of our students, which is so necessary and is already doing so many great things. So that's a few more things I'm thankful for: my Catholic community, the unconditional love and forgiveness of the Father, and the hours I'm able to spend in the peace of Jesus' presence.

My friends have been my biggest support throughout quarantine and the beginning of the school year. My friend group is comprised of mostly seniors. We've spent hours texting and sending videos and voice memos when we have questions or rants too long to type. They even threw me a surprise birthday picnic over the summer :') Their patience, compassion, and reassurance constantly astounds me and I'm so lucky to have them. Same goes for another one of my best friends. She's a grade below me, but she knows me best. We've suffered through countless hours of frisbee together and she reminds me to eat and sleep and take care of myself when I forget, and she'll talk me through every little crisis and hesitation. She's always down for an adventure and we've had plenty of energy drinks and watched too many movies in one night. There were a few weeks in quarantine where we would stay up until 4 in the morning texting each other haha. Good times. My anxiety is a lot just for me to handle, and I'm beyond thankful to have friends who will help me with the load. I'm also thankful for my cousin who does the same, and who watches TV shows with me almost every day as a distraction. And for entertainment, of course. Lucky me, to be surrounded by such amazing people.

That just about sums up the past few months for me. I hope life hasn't been too harsh on all of you, and that you're finding peace and joy in small moments. As always, here's some pictures I found in my camera roll (& I finally made the switch from Android to iPhone after my Android got launched off a boat into a lake... but at least my pictures will be better)

toilet paper aisles two days before quarantine hit

where I spent most of my time during quarantine

getting those lakeside pictures

quarantine sunsets hit different haha

took dozens of pictures and still couldn't capture how unreal these clouds looked in person

spent lots of time playing in the rain

first week of school mornings looked like this. now I just lay in bed and turn my camera off so I can sleep more (say a prayer that none of my teachers come across this lol)

autumn sunsets are the absolute best

new boots! I am in love!!

a lil Christmas painting because we need something to get excited about

just in love with the way the sunlight falls

Saturday mornings are for Starbucks and driving

Camping Trip 2020

2020-06-28T14:42:00.002-04:00

Hey hey, everyone! It's the second child returning to the blog to share some pictures from a recent family camping trip.

If you've been following my mom's blog, you'll know that I love love love photography and took a photography class in my sophomore year of high school. So when my family decided to take a camping trip on a lake, I made sure the camera was packed and kept it on me almost at all times. I took hundreds of photos, but I'll only share a few just to keep this on the shorter side. I didn't get to edit any of these or order them in any specific way because technology isn't my friend today, but enjoy!

the beach!

enjoying the sunset

all packed and ready to go!

he's immensely proud of the way his eye looks in this, so i had to include it

lake sunsets hit different

the amount of geese on our site was almost unsettling

fishing!

this site was a win because there was a dairy queen nearby

cookin' bacon for breakfast

mom's coffee station - our electricity didn't work so we had to go to the next side over, luckily it was unoccupied haha

nap time because the sun woke us up way too early

kayaking with the geese, as you do

our lil campsite on the canal

I hope all of you have been staying safe and healthy during these crazy times :)

Daybook- Back To Regular Programming

2020-01-07T19:23:00.002-05:00

Outside My Window - dark. The outdoor Christmas lights have been officially unplugged and the ornaments on the maple tree taken down. The Holy Family sits in the dark under the said barren tree. The goal is to clear out all outdoor stuff in the next two days.

I'm Listening To - husband and middle child discussing basketball, modern medicine, Ancient Rome, underwear (don't ask!), the periodic table, etc..all while child is doing homework.

What's Cooking - currently, a Filipino favorite - pork adobo. I find cooking after a big holiday to be challenging. After we've had all the good stuff I just want to eat veggies for until I get tired of it. Unfortunately, my household will not approve of that.

The Week Ahead - getting back to routine. Some of us, especially those who are still recovering from illness, are struggling. We hit a rough patch right after Christmas day with taking turns being sick. I went to New Year Mass by myself. Anyhow, Christmas decor will be put away to make room for what I will call the Barren Winter look. I'm looking forward to the muted palettes after the reds and green. Our real tree was shedding like crazy so we took it down. The fake tree will stay up until we get to it. My priority is putting away the Santa collection and the Christmas dinnerware. Lots of purging happening and it's not even Spring yet!

Homeschool Is Cool - unlike my high-schoolers, my homeschoolers were up to the task of going back to school. We have Confirmation this year so we are eagerly digging into the life of St. Martin de Porres, the official Confirmation saint of child number four. We are also reading what Victorian England was like for children, small book but lots of interesting facts. I do need to tweak my plans to cater to these voracious learners.

Mom Treat - scaling back after a season of treats. It was fun while it lasted but now it's time to exercise the "movie-marathons-and-cheesecake" bod. Ugh.

Prayers - I'm trying to insert more silence in my prayer life. My current state of life is fraught with decisions, big and small. In the frenzy of decision making it's hard sometimes to discern the will of God versus my own. The older I get, the more decision-making tires me but decide we must! Prayer, on the other hand, energizes and calms me. As the British would (not) say, keep calm and pray!

Ordinary Time - photos to share, as usual

not sharing my Christmas present

out to see Christmas lights, can you tell which one was feeling sick?

an unusually warm December day

a new lantern that I promptly dropped and broke right after Christmas

New Year's Eve nails

A Year in Review - Part Two

2019-12-31T20:07:00.000-05:00

Hi, friends!

I'm back with the second half of my 2019 reflection. The second half of the year was far more action packed, so I'll hop right into it.

July was another favorite month, and one I'm proud of because I managed to leave the house every day in July. For those of you who know me, I tend to choose staying home over leaving the house, but I left my house over 31 times in a month and it wasn't for school! It started with seeing Spiderman: Far From Home with a bunch of friends, and it's one of my favorite Marvel movies. That night, I pulled an all-nighter with my brother and a few of our friends. We watched movies and played board games all night then we went to Panera when it opened. Initially we had no intention of pulling an all-nighter, but we realized at three in the morning that we were hungry and nothing opened for another three hours. We would have to wait and obviously that was the more logical option than getting a snack from the pantry then going to bed. I celebrated the Fourth of July with family and friends the day after I turned sixteen! I continued t-ball lessons and babysat plenty. I volunteered at our church's Vacation Bible School, which is my favorite week of the year. Last year I was in the kitchen and loved it beyond belief. This year I was assigned the job of the leader the sixth grade girls. I grew very close with a few of them. I love those girls to death. The week after VBS, my cousin flew into town and came with us on our week long cabin trip. The cabin where we stay is near the lake and away from wifi, so our trip was very relaxing. I absolutely love being in nature, it opens up the mind and imagination and I always return with my creative spark reignited. July flew by but every day was a new adventure (and sometimes more than one!). Looking back at my July journal entries always makes me smile.

August seemed slower than ever and was filled with all of the summer homework I had put off in June and July. I hung out with friends a few times, went to a few parks, got my junior year schedule, and the excitement for the school year grew more than ever. I came home from school on the first day beaming and overflowing with joy and excitement; my teacher and classes this year are fascinating. I've had a wonderful time thus far. I knew from the first day that junior year would be my favorite, so far it's proven to be true. School occupied my last half of August but I loved it so much that it wasn't a pain at all.

In September I was inducted into my schools chapter of the National Honor Society, threw a surprise party for my brothers eighteenth birthday (which proved very successful; perks of being a quiet, private person), started up some fall frisbee practices, joined art club, and visited my friends at one of their tennis matches. I was selected to join the servants team for the junior high youth group at our church. Our opening night was exciting. I also attended the Buddy Walk for Down Syndrome and celebrated the first birthday of a good friends sweet little brother. September was homecoming for my school. While I didn't attend the dance, I had a good time participating in our theme days (the theme was time periods this year, 80's day was my absolute favorite). I also attended the homecoming football game with my friends. That's saying a lot for someone who is not particularly a football fan.

October began with four and a half hours of homework in one night. What a joy. But all was set right the next day when I talked my frisbee team into cutting practice short to get ice cream. I went to plenty more football games as well as some of my brothers' cross country meets, celebrated a friends birthday, babysat a crazy ton, and helped run a toiletry drive at my school. I went to an AJR concert with my brother and his friends as a late birthday gift to the former, and it was amazing. I only got into AJR because of my brother, but after coming home from the concert I had their music on repeat. It's not the normal genre I listen to but I really do like it. My friend and I spent the last ten minutes of lunch for a week straight trying to learn how to tie a tie. I don't know that we ever mastered it but we got pretty close. It took plenty of help from Google, other friends/students and teachers who were passing by. In the last weekend of October, I had my junior retreat with my religion class. I love all of the girls in my class dearly (and yes, our class consists of only girls so you can imagine how fun it is) so those 24 hours with them brought me so much joy. The goal of the retreat was to bond as a class and oh my goodness did we bond! We all left retreat radiating more joy, love, and respect for one another than ever before, everyone was sharing hugs and laughs and it was wonderful. There isn't a week that passes by where someone doesn't sigh something like, "I miss retreat, I wish we could go back" at least once. Our senior retreat has a reputation for being a better version of junior retreat and an inspirational experience, so you can bet we are all dreaming of the day we get to attend.

November flew by. I was here on the blog for a good chunk of the month, although I don't know that I really documented all of the events that went on. My Novembers always start with my schools service day which I look forward to every year. My friend started coming to art club with me and it's now a tradition; I think I mentioned it in a previous post. I hung out with friends quite a lot in the first half of November, and in mid-November I'm sure you will recall that we had family in town. One of my friends organized a praise and worship session during one of our religion classes. We went down to the chapel and sang while she played her guitar. Those moments are so raw and beautiful, we all end up holding hands or hugging and just appreciating the community and friendships we've been so blessed with. In November I watched the Netflix adaptation of Anne of Green Gables (called Anne With An E) and fell madly in love with it. It was cancelled mere weeks after I got into it and I'm incredibly upset; I love the show so very much. The third season has yet to be released so the cancellation before the release was unexpected. I would highly recommend it although it's not entirely accurate to the book. I love it just the same. A warning though, it does portray some themes that may not be super friendly to young kids, but for the most part it's very sweet. Anne With an E aside (although is it really a blog post from me if I don't ramble about a current obsession?), November was really lovely.

And here we are in December. This month was filled with board games, books, and walks. My study hall discovered a deck of Uno cards and every day we have a couple of intense games. It's always a good laugh. I started tutoring at my school (as in I am the tutor), prepared for exams, and had a Secret Santa gift exchange with the girls at my lunch table. There was plenty of Christmas preparation, from gift buying to cookie making, decorating, and Christmas itself. I spent the first few days of Christmas break going out with friends; we went to our schools basketball game to see my friends boyfriend who plays, went ice skating, got plenty of food, played board games, and watched a Hallmark movie. If you have my mom on Facebook, you might have seen her post about how noisy we were during the movie. It was a miserably cheesy movie, but I find that watching bad movies with friends is more entertaining than watching good ones. I'm writing this just before I leave to watch the new Little Women movie, and I'm sure I'll have plenty of thoughts to share afterward (update it's been two days since I've seen it and I genuinely have not stopped thinking about the movie since. I loved it with my whole heart and I'll try to scribble down some thoughts to share another time)

And that's a wrap on 2019! 2020 already has so much in store; on the horizon I have ACT prep, frisbee season, a school retreat & other activities to plan, an AP test and Spanish test to prepare for, a couple of friends coming to visit, and countless other events, big and small. It's been a good year & decade, and the next one is already looking bright. I hope 2019 has been as kind to you as it has been to me, and that 2020 is filled with joy and blessings. Happy New Year!

from the AJR concert

adventuring

fourth of July fireworks

airbrush tattoo from the buddy walk <3

Christmas cookie making

A Year in Review - Part One

2019-12-30T10:12:00.001-05:00

Hi, friends!

It's the girl child making a grand return after my disappearance back in November. I had every intention of continuing to write for my mom, but load of school work was dropped on me without notice and I was too swamped to write. Luckily enough, Mom was freed from her duties just in time to pick up where I left off.

I'm on Christmas break currently, it's been wonderful. I've read a number of books, listened to far too much music, gone on plenty of walks, and had the most relaxing time. I figured I would take this opportunity to hop on here to say hello, reflect on the past year, and to release some of the creative energy I currently possess. Also, my mom mentioned the idea of dedicating a section of her blog to me so expect my frequent return. She had the idea of me doing a weekly reflection or post but I think I'll try to do every other week or monthly. I could very well start my own blog, I'm sure I will do so some day. But for now you can find me right here.

2019 was a hectic ride from the start. I'll split it into two posts for the sake of time and ease. I'm opting to only show the highlights because while I believe honesty is good, I am a generally private person. I also have a tendency to be very over-dramatic when describing mishaps and the sort (and just in general), and I don't want you all thinking I'm living some tragedy, because I certainly am not. But don't be fooled, life is far from perfect. Anyways, here are the first six months!

January was fairly calm considering how busy the rest of the year was. I spent New Years Day with some friends and the next three days some other friends came in from out of town. Then a new semester in which I took P.E. instead of Photography. You can bet that I was that student who absentmindedly participates in the activities while reading or studying. Also that month, I helped my aunts and mom put together my cousins bridal shower, watched Stranger Things for the first time (and it was riveting). I attended the March for Life in Washington, DC with some of my closest friends, and it was absolutely incredible. Standing up for something you believe in and are passionate about with a group of people you love and who share the same beliefs and passions is wonderful, and I will forever treasure that weekend. Lots of time spent with those friends this year and let me tell you I don't think I have ever laughed so much with a group of people as I do with them.

February was a wild one. I stepped far out of my comfort zone by joining my school's ultimate frisbee team and fell completely in love with the sport. Sophomore school retreat also happened this month, a load of school work and spent plenty of time with family and friends. It seems like an easy month as my list is short, but February is a short month and a month in which school always seems to pick up, keeping me very busy indeed.

March was a very lovely month. My cousin got married, the first on my dad"s side. I helped set up and tear down for her wedding, put together the bouquets for the bridesmaids (hire me!) and had an overall wonderful day. I have so many pictures and videos from that day that I frequently look back on; it was a very memorable and happy, happy day. Frisbee picked up in March, as we had our first few games and a tournament. I tend to be very anxious in sports as I'm a part of the center of attention, so I had a rough start with frisbee games and tournaments, but things began to ease up as games continued. I volunteered a lot in March, helped my dad coach my brothers' track team, and had a very laid back spring break.

April was my favorite month of the year. After a two-day frisbee tournament (in which both days I was there for over five hours) I became wildly passionate about the sport. Playing with passion brought out more athleticism than I knew I had. I became less anxious and hesitant while playing, making everything a dozen times more fun. Thus, April was a joy as frisbee season was at it's busiest. I had a huge Biology presentation that I nailed and am very proud of myself for, even to this day. Presentations are not my specialty but with this one the goal was to teach a lesson (on the Tundra, I believe) and with my hopes to become a biology teacher, I fully embraced this one and finished feeling more hopeful than ever about my dreams. I also saw Avengers: Endgame on opening night and goodness I cried. I've never cried over a movie as you don't get to know the characters as well as you would in a book or a TV show where you spend hours with them, but oh man Endgame got me. I've been an avid fan of the Marvel movies since early 2016 and as someone who tends to have a hard time with endings, Endgame really got me, but I loved it.

In May I got new glasses, which meant I could finally see, praise the Lord! I get new glasses about every year, sometimes more frequently. My vision is horrendous but I get tired of glasses frames very quickly so it all works out. I went for a completely new shape than before and I'm very pleased with them even after all these months. Frisbee ended but we had a few laid back sessions after school that only two of my freshmen (now sophomore) friends attended with me. It was a good time. This month was spent on end-of- year projects and preparing for exams which ended the month with my history exam. That exam makes me laugh whenever I remember it; my teacher was not the type to reveal much info about the exams before hand. Our midterm had been essays, everyone was miserably stressed over the idea of having to do another essay. Multiple people walked into the exam room in tears, and a few more broke down when our teacher pulled out thick stacks of papers with lines on the front. Upon receiving the exam and turning the page, we discovered that it was not essays (!!!) instead there were five short answer questions and the rest was multiple choice, the majority of which were from previous tests. We laughed for a good while as we began our exam. I can imagine my teacher enjoyed fooling us.

June began with the rest of my exams, and for my Spanish exam we met with all of the other world language classes for World Language Jeopardy. We played in groups, and I joined a group with two of my really good friends and some of their friends who were in varying language classes. We ended up taking first place and thus winning t-shirts, and it was the best way to end the school year. I started working in June, helping teach t-ball lessons. I did plenty of hiking, shopping, playing ukulele, art, writing, and visiting with friends. June seemed achingly slow, although it was nice after a busy spring.

This brings us to the end of the first half of the year! It picked up rapidly in July, so be on the lookout for a second part. Here's some photos in a random order, because I can't arrange them correctly. We love technology. Have a splendid rest of your day :)

watching my brother's frisbee game

March for Life 2019

spring break adventuring with friends

late night art sesh

Daybook- Christmas Week

2019-12-23T09:52:00.002-05:00

"Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel;

for he has come to his people and set them free..." -Luke 1:68

Outside My Window - sunlight pouring through the windows. A hint of frost on windshields. It's a calm morning on our street despite the lateness of the morning. Maybe it's because the kids on our street are on break and sleeping in. Mine are.

I'm Listening To - silence except for all the loud thoughts in my head.

The Week Ahead - baking, gift wrapping, tidying. Christmas Mass will be the highlight of our week. Christmas dinner at my brother-in-law's house, a sleepover, a play date, and I'm sure many things that my kids have planned with their friends and have yet to tell me.

What's Cooking - my mother's world famous cheesecake. I think I'm baking at least five today. It's a secret family recipe. It's a lot of work but I see cheesecake as a work of love. Love in a pie pan. As for the rest of the week, we haven't even yet decided what we're having for Christmas Eve dinner. I was hoping to do prime rib but couldn't find a reasonable price. We might end up with a baked, brown sugar-glazed salmon. We love salmon over here. I'm not too concerned about Christmas Eve dinner.

Mom Treat - Christmas is the biggest treat a mom can ever have. I hope as a busy mother, especially this season, you get time to yourself with baby Jesus. There's something about babies that forces us to slow down and be in the moment. When I became a mother Christmas became more meaningful to me. Jesus as a baby became more meaningful, Mary as mother became more meaningful, Joseph as father...Oh how I love St. Joseph. I hope this week, you find that peace and quiet that this world, this busy season and this busy life cannot give.

Prayers - the Canticle of Zechariah. There is mercy, salvation, freedom and peace in such a short hymn of praise. Zechariah made me cry so early in the morning. Whatever is in your heart today, your joy, your sorrows, your worries, your anxieties, the troubles of your heart and soul know that Christ was born for you, to bring you mercy, salvation, freedom and peace. Merry Christmas!

'Tis the Season - photos, as usual

Daybook- Baking Week

2019-12-16T10:03:00.001-05:00

So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God - 1 Corinthians 10:13

Outside My Window - snow on the ground, on the trees, on top of ornaments. It's a winter wonderland and I can't wait to go for a walk.

I'm Listening To - the swishing and gurgling of the dishwasher and the steady hum of a space heater. Our heat went out last night. Someone is coming to look at it this afternoon. Fortunately, it hasn't been very cold so we are not in danger of freezing to death. I do fear freezing the Christmas spending account if heating repair gets costly.

The Week Ahead - it's exam week people! My highschoolers are ready, able, and just done with school for the year. My homeschoolers are officially out. It's a week of cooking, baking, and decorating. Yes, decorating! We still only have outdoor decor and a tree bought last night. We got our tree from a tree lot which is not our usual. I should say I handed my card to the kids and have them walk over to the tree lot. Like I said, unusual. But as they say, when life gives you lemons, you just roll with it. And that's been the theme of my year, rolling with life and settling in to a possibly new normal.

Homeschool Is Cool - it's especially cooler this week because we are officially on Christmas break.

What's Cooking - as I sit here my kitchen smells delicious! I am slow roasting a Boston pork butt for eight hours. It just so happens that the heat of the oven is also keeping my house warm. It's a win-win both for empty tummies and cold bodies. Also, daughter and I are having a baking marathon. Her list is mostly breads and mine sweet treats. It will be so fun. I may have bought all the sale butter at Aldi. The oldest child also asked if we can have a "beef stew party" to celebrate the end of exam week. Apparently, my beef stew is legendary amongst his friends so who am I to not live up to my fame?! I would like to make beef stew for the world, it may initiate world peace. I'm pretty sure feeding teenagers a good stew is my path to saving the world 😁. The question remains though, of how much stew to make to feed a horde of athletic teenage boys. I will report next week.

Mom Treat - so I made a Christmas list, which is something I haven't done in years. I really want things this year. My consumerist heart beats once again. This heart is ~~currently~~ always enamored with everything sparkly. I have a sequined clutch purse on my list, a sequined midi-skirt, a sequined memory pillow (kidding about the sequined part!), and a few other sparkly things that might burn my family's retina. And to them I wish a happy shopping, get those sunglasses on the ready.

Prayers - for you. You all know who you are.

'Tis The Season - photos!

be still my beating heart!
found on Pinterest where I should really stop searching sequined everything

baking plans, daughter's list is longer than mine!

pre-gaming the Christmas nails

even my nails were gaudete-ing

Daybook - Second Week Of Advent

2019-12-09T11:32:00.001-05:00

Outside My Window - the usual December drear, rain with a slight breeze. Rain means more time indoors to face my home life that currently requires a tidying. I tend to ignore these things when the weather is bright and I give in to the siren song of mother nature. Today the rain is forcing me to stay home and clean. I'm not angry about it.

I'm Listening To - My Advent/Christmas playlist on Spotify. I have many but this one is mostly original Christmas music themed music. There's a classic here and there but mostly modern stuff. One of my faves is Come Thou Long Expected Jesus by Meredith Andrews.

The Week Ahead - The usual craziness of my homeschool/brick and mortar school hybrid life. The highschoolers are preparing for exams before Christmas break so there will be a lot of studying, stressing out, and possibly late nights. As mother my job this week is to soothe frayed nerves, provide some tasty meals, hold my tongue, and practice the kind of love that I usually preach. Pray for me lol. Oh, and that Christmas shopping list need to be worked on. And did I tell you some of my Fall decorations are up and Christmas is still in boxes?! Definitely pray for me.

What's Cooking - so my husband is coming home from a business trip in the foodie continent that is Asia. He has had some of the best meals these past few weeks. How exactly will my cooking compete with five-star establishment menus?! I may need to bring him down to reality that is meat and potatoes! But I'm just so excited for him to be home. I don't know how those of you whose husbands travel regularly do it. I am giving him the biggest kiss at the airport today!

Mom Treat - I'm planning to drink something alcoholic this week lol. I hear my husband is bringing me some strong stuff from the motherland. I must admit to being an alcohol snub which means I hardly indulge unless it's the good stuff because the good stuff is outside the scope of my Excel budget spreadsheet. It's looking like a good week for mom treat. Let's drink to that!

Prayers - oh girl...so much to pray for! Advent always brings these petitions out of the woodwork. But I've also focused my prayer life towards thanksgiving. The good, the bad, the ugly, they are all tempered through tge lens of gratitude. The Lord is merciful and worthy to be praised.r

'Tis The Season - baking and playing with friends this past week

exploding snowman experiment

the makings of a scientific discovery

caramel makes a really good glue for graham cracker house

Daybook - First Monday Of Advent

2019-12-02T08:09:00.000-05:00

Outside My Window - early winter feels with the dark and damp. A gentle swinging of Christmas ornaments hung on our maple tree outside. It is my favorite view this time of year, Christmas cheer shared with my neighbors.

I'm Listening To - two boys getting ready to go back to school after a beautiful Thanksgiving weekend. They are discussing ultimate frisbee practice and not wanting to go back to school. I feel their pain. This weekend just magnified for me how short these years are. So for those of you who are homeschooling your littles, I encourage you, just for today, don't give in to the stress of the holidays. Love those babies, read to them, cuddle up on the couch, maybe ditch the books and worksheets and watch a movie together. Today, rekindle what you love about homeschooling and what you love about your family time.

The Week Ahead - I guess I should seriously take Christmas shopping. A few things here and there were bought but I need to make a huge dent on the list. Fortunately most of them can be purchased online.

What's Cooking - I'm taking requests today. Usually I have a solid meal plan but for this week I need the kids to give me some ideas. Since we did not host Thanksgiving this year, there are no leftovers to gnosh on. After a weekend of treats, food is currently not high in my priorities.

Homeschool Is Cool - Christmas and Advent reading books have been released from the vaults. My youngest is a natural book lover so as soon as I laid it all out on the table he started reading one. For our assigned reading we picked St. Catherine Laboure by Ignatius Press.

Mom Treat - I need the silence of Advent so at some point this week, once everyone is in bed I will watch Into Great Silence. That is an Advent and Lent staple for me. Silence is my favorite mom treat of the season.

Prayers - multiple novenas! One is thanksgiving novena with no material intentions attached. The other, the Christmas/St. Andrew novena, for preparation, reparation, and conversion. Because we all need some form of that in our lives, right?

'Tis The Season - a couple of photos before I go about the rest of my day

late night hot cocoa service with a smile

30 Days Of Thanks - November

2019-11-30T23:34:00.004-05:00

What a month! Busy, stressful, crazy, and fun. Writing thankfulness really saved my sanity on days when I wasn't up for the challenge. Thanks also goes out to my kids who wrote for me when my family came to town. To Jacob who was quick to say yes when I asked if he would write an entry for me. To all of you who visited everyday to read. To those who gave me feedback. To all of you, thank you! I won't be completely silent in December as I will still write the Daybook. I hope you all have a blessed holiday season and that your Advent is beautiful and prayerful. Happy feast day of St. Andrew. Don't forget the Christmas novena begins today!

Before I leave here are some snapshots of my month -