Faithful Hearts

2012-01-28T23:30:00.000-08:00

St. Thomas Aquinas, pray for us!

-1-

January 28: Tim, Zachary and I were baptized. We joyfully celebrate our Triple Baptism Anniversary on this, the Feast of St. Thomas Aquinas and St. Agnes (her secondary feast). Tim (in 1968) and Zachary (in 1995) received this new birth in the Holy Spirit at St. Benedict Church in Seattle, and I (1968) at St. Agnes Church in San Francisco, in the Haight Ashbury district near my dad's medical school, UCSF. Do you know your baptism anniversary? If not, do some research and discover the date so you can celebrate it and praise God for such a tremendous gift! Trust me, it's no mere coincidence that my husband Tim and I share this exact date of our baptisms... God arranged it precisely so that we would know for certain that we were created to be married to one another.

-2-

Officially now a foster-free zone, we have begun deliberations over the possible return to a new normal with Zachary moving back to his old bedroom upstairs. Zac rather enjoys the seclusion and quiet of the downstairs room, which is also warmer; but it's tiny size makes his giant mess harder to conceal. Many have inquired if we intend to continue offering foster care in our home, and the honest answer right now is we don't know. After six+ months with three foster children ages 5 and under, and 2+ years with Ezra, we are eager to spend some quality time as our family of 5. If we do take on future foster placements it will be after careful, prayerful consideration of where and to whom we're already committed and how we are called to best use our gifts.

Scoutmaster Tim + a few Scouts {tackling a gigantic mess under Peter's direction} = Scout Service Project Saturday.

-3-

As the newly elected Quatermaster, Peter's leadership responsibilities in our BSA troop include organizing and cleaning the ~~disastrous~~ Scout Room. Part storage room, part meeting room, part garbage can, the Scout Room can go from neat and orderly to downright dangerous in a matter of minutes. Boy Scouts heading out on camping trips, in their pre-departure mode with last-minute furious searching and 'packing' give way to uninhibited chaos in the gear room. Having a clean-up day a few times each year beats back the mess and gives our Scouts one clean room to share. Next stop: bedrooms!

Sorting the useful from the useless, Peter and helpful Scouts Enoch and Bryce attempt to make order.

-4-

An Eagle Project of enormous effort and profound perseverance, Zachary's carport project built up a little steam this weekend as a talented construction worker (Scout dad) volunteered his time and expertise to install the rebar forms for the concrete pour to begin actual construction work. This ~~endless~~ ongoing project continues to offer opportunities for leadership, vocational awareness, technical training, communication skills, and character growth. Continuing tomorrow, and many work days in the next few weeks (months?) the carport will take shape soon, mark my words...

-5-

In a shocking phone call from Liberia today, Ezra heard that his father spent two days in a coma after a tragic car accident in which at least one person was killed. Reportedly, he was one passenger of many piled in the back of a pick-up truck which spun out and overturned. Ezra spoke to his father, and offered him prayers for healing. Unfortunately, the whole report could be fact or fiction. You see, there is an ongoing history of many, many phone calls from Liberia; most all in a given series culminating in a desperate plea for cash. In fact, when I reported today's news to Ezra's mom, Renee, she replied: "We had a call a couple of months ago that (Ezra's cousin) Stanley was in a car wreck, broke his arm, and was in the hospital for several days." When I asked Ezra how he felt after hearing the news today about his father's accident, he replied, "Stanley told me my dad was in a car accident a few months ago." Either the Liberians are in an awful lot of car accidents, or...

-6-

On the business front, my entrepreneurial husband Tim opened another new venture: music lesson rooms. These are adjacent to our new Music Store, next door to our first pawn shop. For a small fee, music instructors can rent a room in which to provide lessons for students. A small waiting area for parents as a bonus, plus high hopes that a few will spend time and money shopping for at least part of the time they're waiting.

-7-

Our home might catch you off guard if you've never visited real honest-to-goodness out-in-the open Catholics before; or if you're not in touch with you inner teenage male; or don't enjoy large rowdy labs knocking you over at the entryway. Zachary hosted a houseful of (relatively new) friends from his swim team recently, for a few hours of fun and games (DnD). Unfamiliar with some of our visible sacramentals, his Jewish friend asked him about the holy water. "It's a powerful weapon against evil," was Zachary's simple and honest explanation. Baptized in it (on this day), we keep the holy water handy at our house for blessings. (No, it's not magic; no we don't worship it.) It's just holy water, on tap and available at your local Catholic Church. Take some home and keep the baptismal blessings flowing!

For more Quick Takes, visit Conversion Diary!

A Few Laps To Go {Varsity Swim & Dive}

2012-01-26T11:17:00.000-08:00

Zachary competes in the 200 free

With only two home swim meets remaining on the schedule, the varsity swim and dive season will soon enter post-season competition. Zachary's hopes are very high for a state qualifying time, and Ezra may wild card to the state meet in diving. The three-time defending AA state champs, Sehome HS swim and dive team looks to wrap up the season with an undefeated record, their biggest conference challenge coming from Anacortes next Tuesday.

Ezra's sixth dive

In the interest of team unity, discipline and cross-training, Ezra's coach signed him up to swim a leg of the 4 x 100 free relay in yesterday's meet against Bellingham HS & Mt. Vernon HS. Ezra participated, though not gladly. He completed the 100 with only a few breaks, and his teammates cheered for him as if it were the final leg of a competitive race. The support was heartwarming and hopefully Ezra felt the love a bit more than the pain.

Ezra's off the blocks, a new kind of dive

Tim and his parents cheer for Ezra in the 4 x 100 free relay

Joseph and Peter join the high school swimmers cheering for Ezra on his final leg.

The crowd goes wild as Ezra completes his ~~forced swim~~ race.

Team captain Zachary leads the final cheer before the team meeting in the hot tub.

Archbishop J. Peter Sartain {Local Shepherd}

2012-01-24T11:53:00.000-08:00

Joseph, Tim, Bridget, Zachary, Archbishop Sartain, and Peter

Our family is so blessed to be in the care of such a good and holy archbishop. A member of the sacred hierarchy established by Christ Himself, our archbishop comes from a long line of exceptional men of God. A prayerful man, a gentle soul, a truly personable and engaging bishop, our family, our priests and our local diocese is in very capable and caring hands.

Archbishop Sartain traveled to Bellingham to celebrate the sacrament of confirmation for our local teens and adults Sunday at a beautiful evening Mass at the Church of the Assumption. As a 4th Degree Knight, Tim served in the honor guard and the rest of us joined the congregation, graced with amazing music by our dear and talented friend Angus McDonell with his family and choir. Archbishop Sartain's powerful message for the youth being confirmed concluded with a strong reminder that "Confirmation is not the same thing as graduation." So many teens mistakenly believe that their confirmation signals the end of their formal training in the Catholic faith, rather than a powerful beginning with the gifts of the Holy Spirit to empower, embolden and encourage them. He also reminded them in no uncertain terms that attending Mass on Sunday, EVERY Sunday is their duty and privilege.

In a characteristically powerful homily (sermon), Archbishop Sartain reminded us all to heed the voice of Jesus. "The time of fulfillment is NOW. Be filled with the Holy Spirit," he added, "be a living Christ - in every now. Think of what God can do for you when you put these gifts to work.... we need you to put these gifts to work... Be sent forth as disciples and prophets. NOW is the time of fulfillment."

We can expect good things from our newly confirmed, who were sealed with the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and from every one of us present and inspired by our dear Archbishop Sartain.

Ezra {Planning the Next Step}

2012-01-23T17:46:00.000-08:00

Ezra signs away at his Job Corps intake appointment.

Ezra's situation is complicated. He is almost 20 years old on paper and by physical appearance, though he would argue that he's only 16 or 17, having been trained to lie about his age by the people who ran the orphanage in Liberia, from where he was adopted by our friends over 5 years ago. Ezra is around 12 years old emotionally, and probably 4th or 5th grade academically. In his third year at the local high school (and living with us), he has lettered in several varsity sports and managed to keep a decent GPA while earning a few credits along the way. This year he is ~~quite against his wishes~~ enrolled in culinary arts classes at an out-of-district technical education facility, and manages a series of bus rides to get where he needs to go. On the surface, all appears fine and dandy. He gets from point A to point B, he says please and thank you, and does his fair share of the chores around the house.

Like many immigrants, Ezra doesn't fit into any of the ready-made-molds for kids his age. Plan A for this school year involved our continuing to support Ezra as he completed his third year at the local public high school before making a transition to Job Corps to join his siblings Boaz and Keziah (already in progress). However, due to recent unfortunate complications (poor decision making) Ezra's departure for Job Corps will by necessity come sooner rather than later. The vocational training plus GED/diploma completion is something Ezra is looking forward to, although he is quite disappointed not to be able to participate in spring soccer at the high school again this year.

Ezra's Job Corps application has been formally submitted and we will be notified once an opening becomes available, allowing for his entrance into the residential program located in the Cascade Foothills. Sometime within the next month or two he will be packing up and making the move into a dorm on campus. His presence here will be missed, and we are grateful to have been given an opportunity to guide him in his human formation and support his academic and athletic pursuits.

Snow Week {+Meltdown}

2012-01-20T23:21:00.000-08:00

-1-

Five days of real winter weather (with snow) and subsequent closures and cancellations made this week an extension of an already monumental break from home schooling. Other than Joseph's required algebra, and our daily religion (and sacraments), no tangible school work has been accomplished around here for quite some time. Today the big melt hit, along with a big rain storm which unfortunately followed the guys up the mountain for a Boy Scout lodge stay for skiing and sledding. Good thing they have good gear and a great love for the outdoors despite the messy conditions.

-2-

Today I drove "Tony" to his daycare for (probably) the last time. He returns to his former foster family (whom he adores) for another temporary placement while his permanency plan continues to evolve. We will gladly welcome him back for visits, but our daily foster routine of the past seven months ended with this morning's drive and drop-off. He had a small tantrum when we arrived, and pulled what we lovingly refer to as "a Tony" when asked to come join the other kids (he curled up in a ball and refused to cooperate or communicate). A fitting good-bye incident to cap off our time together. When I walked away, there was a sense of relief, yes, and also sadness. When I heard the teacher telling him it was OK to come to the 'waving window' I wondered what had inspired him to come out of the fetal position so soon and follow after me. Turning around, I saw him crying at the gate and went back to ask him if he felt sad "Yes"; and why, "I want my airplane!" He mistakenly thought his share-toy for today's share-time had been forgotten in the car or perhaps confiscated like last week's share toy (as a consequence for misbehaving in the car after a warning to stop). We pray his living situation will be finalized soon, in whatever way and with whatever family will best meet his needs and nurture his soul. We are blessed to have been a small part of his journey.

-3-

We forced our boys to attend an annual home school family dance held at Sts. Peter and Paul in Tacoma recently. You might have thought they were being asked to run barefoot over hot coals (except they would take that challenge and any challenge involving fire much more willingly than an invitation to socialize with strangers and girls). Predictably, before the end of the evening, our entertainer, Peter, courageously broke the ice and joined the line dance as if it were an athletic event, followed not too much later by a hesitant but rowdy Joseph. Zachary passed the time texting gaming suggestions to his friends playing DnD back home, and lingered by the snack table all night (on a different floor from the dancing). We met some delightful people and enjoyed visiting with our dear friends with whom we have much in common and enjoy thoroughly though distanced by the miles.

-4-

"Luke and Leia" visited last weekend, as guests in our home after being returned to their mother's custody in court last week. Oddly, they refused to drink their milk; I theorized that their mother must have erased milk from their diet for some reason. After several attempts to serve it, and startled at "Luke's" slightly violent reaction (hurling the bottle across the room) I tasted a small sip. ROTTEN! Disgusting, sour milk... no wonder they weren't interested! The full gallon had only been open a few days and was well within the stated expiration zone. Poor twins ~ come back for a visit and get poisoned. We miss them after our six months together, and praise God that their mom has them in her care after going to such great lengths to regain custody. May they all be well together.

-5-

I was saddened by a subtle division in the pro-life camp at the March for Life in Olympia. Instead of solidly joined forces against evil~ conflict, confusion and disharmony simmered. It's an ugly business, abortion. It took witnessing an actual abortion for former Planned Parenthood Director Abby Johnson to reconsider and completely reverse her staunch pro-abortion position. The graphic images (truth) of abortion are unnerving and detestable; as is the act of abortion itself. What will stop this insane violence against the unborn (and against families) and heal our culture? I pray:

Lord, may we grow stronger and become united in our pro-life efforts. May we bring about positive change and spiritual renewal to our culture through our words, works and prayers in accordance with your holy will. May there be an end to all abortions and healing for those who have suffered by abortion.

-6-

I was not tempted to watch the "Why I hate religion" video that made waves recently. I saw it 'liked' on FB, but didn't have any interest in looking at it. This week several links appeared giving apt responses to the heart of that matter: Why I Love Religion and Love Jesus came to me via my little brother, and a dear blogging friend; and a Father Barron Comments video found at the Thin Veil, both inspired me and reminded me why I LOVE BELONGING TO JESUS' CHURCH!

-7-

Zachary's university selection and application process continues to move along; at a much slower pace than his swim races, but faster than his Eagle Project. Several top choices are in the running, and it's been a delight to read his essay responses to the various prompts on the applications, like this:

It is a somewhat common misconception that one attends college, any college, to be trained for a career; however, I believe that the proper reason to attend college is to seek education—knowledge, understanding, and wisdom. These Gifts which lend themselves specially to the academic life build upon the basis of the other four Gifts of the Holy Ghost—fear of the Lord, piety, fortitude, and counsel ....

My desire to know the truth is deepened through the Gifts of the Holy Ghost that lead us to truth; desire for these Gifts is likewise deepened through the understanding of how they are passed on to us through the living history of the Church.

What will Zachary's future hold? Only God know for sure, but it looks pretty bright to me! Today I began a Novena asking St. Thomas Aquinas (patron of students) for his prayers for Zachary's discernment. This nine-day prayer will conclude on the Feast of St. Thomas Aquinas, which also happens to be the anniversary of Zachary's baptism, my baptism, and my husband's baptism: January 28th.

For more Quick Takes, visit Conversion Diary!

March for Life {2012}

2012-01-19T15:51:00.000-08:00

Archbishop Sartain elevates the Precious Blood of Jesus at the 2012 Mass for Life.

It all begins with God: Each Human Life ~from the instant of conception~ and the annual Washington State March for Life ~in defense of the millions of unborn babies killed by abortion. A Mass for Life, celebrated by our Archbishop J. Peter Sartain, held in the pavilion at St. Martin's College in Lacey, brought our plea for the cause of life to our Lord. After the closing prayer, an announcement to the congregation stated that due to the inclement weather, the March for Life had been cancelled.

I had just spoken to Aileen (whose parents pioneered the Washington State March for Life 34 years ago and whose family still organizes the March each year) and she assured me that the March would absolutely not be cancelled for weather.

Moments later, just after the recessional, a second announcement was made correcting the errant cancellation. (Nice try whomever gave/initiated the false notice; we were not so easily thrown off track!)

Tim and Joseph head back to the charter bus following Mass for a short ride to the state capitol.

Second generation banner bearers, Joseph and Peter, stand on the front line at the Washington State March for Life in Olympia.

Joseph, Peter, Maggie, Sally, Ryan and Jack lead the 2012 March for Life in Olympia, WA.

Archbishop Sartain and Bishop Elizondo stand together for Life.

Bridget and Aileen

Peter, (Aileen's son) Peter, and Joseph together on the capitol steps after the rally.

Snow Texting {Unexpected Company}

2012-01-16T14:39:00.000-08:00

There is an inherent risk in giving your teenager a cell phone (he might use it).

First thing this morning, in a moment of extreme excitement over the first snowfall of the season, Joseph sent a text to one of his friends from the swim team. A series of messages followed, and Joseph casually asked if his friend could come over to go sledding. Doubting that the friend had parental permission or transportation (from across town) I gave my consent.

Flash forward a few hours~ Zac found me folding laundry and said, "Mom, there's a lady at the front door. She wants to talk to you. She says her kids are here to play in the snow." Sure enough, there she stood on my porch all bundled up in her snow gear, as sweet as could be, happy to drive her boys over to play on our hill. She stayed outside and supervised the sledding and snow play.

Turns out Joseph had texted them driving directions, thoughtfully sending them around the long way to avoid danger on the steep and slippery (sledding) hill. On that very hill, while the boys sledded with their friends, a FedEx delivery truck and another vehicle each crashed into parked cars. FedEx slipped backwards into a parked car owned by a UPS driver; other car came down the steep hill and couldn't make the turn, sliding into a parked car. Seems like a good day to park somewhere else perhaps?

This amazing local unicycle rider commutes on his one-wheel rain, shine or snow.

Turning 12 {Peter}

2012-01-12T11:27:00.000-08:00

Peter together with friends Collin, Enoch, Judah, (a happy brother) Joseph, Nick and Aaron on his 12th birthday

In this ongoing season of celebrations, yesterday marked the 12th birthday for our youngest, Peter. An afternoon patrol outing at the local swimming pool kicked things off; hanging out at home with a Mexican dinner and an ice cream pie dessert rounded off the festivities. Since Peter and my dad share a birthday, a double birthday party will be held tomorrow night with Grandpa Pete (and more family members) before Zac's away swim meet in Renton.

Peter pours the bubbly (apple cider)

One + Two = 12 years old

Happy Birthday Peter and Dad/Grandpa Pete!

Fostering Moments {Placement Changes}

2012-01-11T13:17:00.000-08:00

Tim cares for the twins outside the courtroom, after the judge ordered them out.

Waiting in the courtroom for over 90 minutes, the twins' case number was finally called. Within the first moments of the proceedings, the judge asked that the twins please be removed to the hallway so that he could actually hear the case. Tim kindly volunteered to be on duty, thereby missing the hearing he had waited so patiently to witness. As it turns out, those were his final moments as the foster dad for these two beautiful toddlers. After all sides were heard, the judge ruled (fairly and rightly by our estimation, though not in agreement with the state) that the twins be placed in their mother's care effective immediately. Bittersweet, but satisfying results wrapping up our six month ordeal as the foster family for "Luke and Leia". Our relationship won't end immediately, though. Their mom needs childcare in order to attend to family business in Canada, so on occasional weekends we will have our hands full of twins again.

Someone's been playing with his dad's clippers!

In moments of lukewarm supervision while visiting his dad's new 'safe' home, "Tony" has entertained himself with hobbies like hiding thumbtacks in the carpet, giving himself a reverse mohawk, and getting locked out on the back deck. Turns out dad shuts off the breaker to the stove during "Tony's" stays... indicating that perhaps he's taken a fascination with unsupervised cooking escapades as well.

Moving the planned father-son reunification along, but slowing the pace to a crawl, the state decided to return "Tony" to his original foster home (which will be a dream come true for "Tony"). The reverse placement will take place in a little over a week, so our foster kids' room (once known as Zac's room) will be vacant by the Feast of St. Agnes.

Peter corrects the clipper mishap with a clean sweep.

Gifts Given {Gifts Received}

2012-01-08T10:31:00.000-08:00

--1--

All 3 boys serving Christmas Mass with Father Qui Thac Nguyen at Sacred Heart Catholic Church

Top gift received Christmas 2011: Christmas Mass~twice! We attended both Midnight Mass and at 11AM Christmas Day, and our boys served at the altar for both. Receiving Christ truly and substantially in the Holy Eucharist on Christmas (twice!) makes the very-tippy-top of the best gifts of Christmas 2011. Realizing that our three sons won't likely be serving a Christmas Mass together again after Zachary's university years begin next fall, this Christmas memory has special weight. The following 6 gifts given and received appear below in no particular order...

Father Qui Thac, Zachary, Raphael, Peter, David and Joseph prepare for the recessional.

--2--

Peter and Joseph spot the new fish in Peter's tank Christmas morning.

As far as living, breathing Christmas pets go, the gift of 5 more fish in the tank tops the charts! A few years ago Peter received his dog, Rocky, as a Christmas surprise. Let's just say Rocky's special (expensive) IBS diet, his extremely loud, obnoxious bark and phobia of men entering our home gives special meaning to this gift of 5 silent fish swimming in the tank. Joseph wrapped the tank after carefully acquainting the gift fishies to their new home. For over a week Peter waited and wondered until on Christmas morning he revealed the newest members of our menagerie.

--3--

My gifts from the guys... a puzzle revealing a tremendous gift

The one thing on my wish list (the only thing that came to mind when Tim asked me for suggestions) was the desire to attend monthly meetings of the OCDS; a very special opportunity to grow closer to God within a Carmelite community. In order to give this gift, Tim and the boys first had a meeting and together agreed to support me in this journey and allow for my absence on the one Sunday each month when the local group meets for prayer and formation. PUZZLE CODE: Carmel+Light(s)+Stan(d)+Wood = mom's gift of a monthly trip to Carmelite aspirancy and formation meetings. How sweet!

--4--

Joseph and his new axe (be warned!)

THE YEAR OF THE HATCHET could be the sub-title for Christmas 2011 at our house. Each of our three boys asked for, and received his very own hatchet from a variety of gift-givers. Joseph's hatchet came with a full sized axe; Peter and Zachary received bonus surgical saws which fits inside their hatchets. All 3 have earned and know the rules associated with the BSA Totin' Chip. Yes, the tools would be taken away if used improperly or in a dangerous manner. Downed wood in the green-belt next door beware: these guys are sure to find you and destroy you!

--5--

Chris opens his big gift.

Receiving our gift {which shall remain nameless}, Zac's great-friend-and-awesome-human-being Chris showed amazing glee and gratitude. Granted, this gift supports his ~~addiction~~ favorite hobby, and makes him a formidable enemy to his opponents on the field. How were we to know the attached upgraded battery came with a warning about spontaneous explosion during charging? Luckily, Chris found the needed charger-bag online and ordered it right away. Owning 2 pawn shops allows for creative gift giving sometimes, and this gift for Chris constitutes one of those occasions.

--6--

Peter gives Zachary a hand-made dice rosary.

Another great success story stemming from my three favorite words: "Go Ask Dad," Peter's dream of making Zachary a rosary of assorted dice came true in time for Christmas gift giving. Tim and Peter worked together using a drill press at the pawn shop and a pound of dice Peter ordered online. The resulting game-themed prayer tool delighted its seventeen-year-old recipient, who put it to use almost immediately to pray along on our family rosary (Gospel reflections) during the car ride to Christmas Eve dinner with my side of the family. Not a pocket rosary like most, but a real gift from the heart (and hand-made) to boot; a keeper.

--7--

My cousin, Ryan holds his nephew, Daniel on Christmas Eve.

A wonderful gift given and received this Christmas came in the form of relaxed fellowship with our families and friends. Spending Christmas Eve with my grandma (now 94 years old and in great health after a terrible accident a few years ago), a tradition from as far back as I can remember, marks the beginning of Christmas celebrations and launches us into the days and weeks that follow. Our Christmas season continues, so once again I bid you all a Merry Christmas!

For more Quick Takes, visit Conversion Diary!

Birthday Wrap Up {Bridget's 44}

2012-01-05T21:53:00.000-08:00

Opening my new pressure cooker (from Tim) with glee

A day to remember, my 44th birthday brought love and laughs, plus many blessings and graces. After successfully ejecting Zachary from his bed (two minutes after his Logic class began), and sending him off with a cooler full of food to fuel his tank on meet day, the boys and I began dissembling the Christmas tree. Our usual visit to Sacred Heart for confession and Mass was graced by Father Qui Thac's birthday prayer for me during the general intercessions. Witnessing Joseph and Peter (and Zac) as altar servers always brings me great joy and such gratitude for the gift of faith we share and practice. After Mass we stopped for a splurge on smoothies, then a brief stop at home before departing for Zac's swim meet in Mt. Vernon with Tim and Grandpa Cliff. Cousin Pat met us in the stands to cheer.

A smashing victory for his swim team, and a PR for Zachary in the backstroke made the stifling heat and uncomfortable bleachers ~~bearable~~ enjoyable. With written request, we were able to snatch Zachary from the team bus and head to a steak house for a birthday dinner (on Grandma Patty and Grandpa Pete thanks to gift certificates). The lighting (or lack thereof) gave the restaurant a cave-like quality, but after about an hour our pupils were fully dilated and we could see each other and our food.

About to enjoy dessert #1, on the house at Outback; wearing my new hat

Opening cards and gifts, being showered with loving calls, texts and many messages on my FB page, the day just kept getting better and better. Capped off with not one, but two desserts, this birthday evening concludes with me feeling completely spoiled and totally blessed. Thank you for your kind wishes!

Ready to extinguish the flames on dessert #2: key lime pie made by Joseph; Peter's warming up for his birthday next week!

St. John Neumann, pray for us!

Best of 2011 {Year in Review}

2012-01-01T16:56:00.000-08:00

2011 Highlights

--1--

Our family pilgrimage to Italy in March-April 2011 tops the list of Best of 2011. The boys and I received the airfare to Italy as a surprise at Christmas from Tim. Armed with the know-how of our dear friends and our pastor (all veteran travelers to/residents of Italy), a friend's great book with must-see pilgrimage sights, and the generous gift of a few nights' stay at a fancy Marriott near the airport from Grandma Billie and Grandpa Cliff; our time together traveling throughout Italy will not soon be forgotten. And hopefully someday repeated!

--2--

Bringing up the gifts during the preparation of the altar at the Latin Mass at St. Peter's Basilica tops the Best Moments of 2011. Imagine being ushered to the very front row in the Chapel of the Chair of St. Peter and having the honor of presenting the gifts of bread and wine on behalf of the whole Church... right there under the Chair of St. Peter, one of many Bernini treasures! As there were only four allowed in the procession of the gifts, Tim humbly bowed out, insisting that the three boys and I have the honor, and watched us proudly respecting a strict 'no photographs' allowed.

--3--

Visiting the earthly resting places of so many of our heroes and patrons: St. Peter, St. Paul, St. Mark, St. Augustine, St. Pio, St. Catherine, St. Francis, St. Clare, St. Anthony, St. John XXIII, St. Lucy, St. Benedict, St. Scholastica, St.Rita, Blessed John Paul II; and seeing Eucharistic Miracles on display in Cascia and Lanciano tops the Best Faith Builders of 2011.

--4--

Accepting our first 3 official foster children tops the Life Changing Decisions of 2011. These 3 children from 2 different families are still with us today, though they are in a formal process of transition home which may make Zachary's bedroom available come St. Valentine's Day.

--5--

Our return to Bowron Lakes Provincial Park as leaders of a Boy Scout high adventure canoe trip tops the Best Family Wilderness Experience for 2011. With Zachary as the crew leader, and having made the 75+ mile trip as a family with the troop in 2007, we endured the trials of stormy weather and choppy lakes and found this canoe loop to be as beautiful and challenging as ever.

--6--

The beginning of actual work on Zachary's Eagle Project tops the Best Dreams Come True in 2011. This carport project, conceived in 2008, stretched the leadership abilities and limits of human patience of perseverance unlike any other Eagle Project known to me. The work parties scheduled over this Christmas break mostly fell through due to the inherent business of the season and Zachary's swim team trip to California.

--7--

Completing Zachary's Common Application for university admission this week tops the Best Home School Accomplishment of 2011. As the 'couselor' on his online application packet, my role included submitting a high school transcript, a full letter of evaluation and summaries of his academic career, reasons we chose home schooling, philosophy of our home school and our grading scale and methods of evaluation. Let's just say this was no small project for someone like me who is fairly lax at record keeping. Without the amazing help of my friends and fellow home school moms Johannah, Laura, and Kimberly, this project would have been impossible in the short time frame allowed after Zachary decided to apply to Notre Dame by the December 31st regular deadline. Zachary still has several university applications to complete, some take the common application and others don't. Pray for us!

Happy and Blessed New Year to you.

You are in my prayers...

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The Gift of Wings {Zachary in California}

2011-12-28T11:32:00.000-08:00

Sehome High School swim team trains at Belmont Plaza, Long Beach, California.

If you know me, you understand that sending Zachary off for a week of training and fun in California with the local public high school swim team is somewhat of a stretch. Had this trip been offered in any of his previous three years on the swim team, our decision as to whether or not he could attend would be a foregone conclusion: no way. And yet, by the grace of God, this special opportunity comes at a time when we are prepared to say "yes" and allow our oldest son this extraordinary experience.

We parted with Zac at 2AM on the 27th, and so far the only communication arrived in the form of a one word text message "landed." His coach sent a short email stating the same, with these two photos as evidence.

Zachary (behind blue capped swimmer) and the high school swim team (hopefully wearing sunscreen) at outdoor training in California.

Without a doubt, this trip carries inherent risks. Leave aside the actual dangers of travel~ Zac's safer on an airplane or in the ocean or on an amusement ride than he is behind the wheel, statistically speaking. Having traveled extensively with my soccer teams both in high school and in university, I know first-hand the types of temptations and dangers present with improperly supervised youth in out-of-town environments. Yet I am at perfect peace knowing that Zachary is protected; his guardian angel is right there with him, his patron saints are pulling for him, and his family and Godparents are praying for his safe journey. Most of all, we see in our oldest son, Zachary, a wise, responsible, trustworthy, faithful, courageous young man who has truly earned our trust and whom we gladly gifted with this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stretch his wings.

Holy Innocents, pray for us!

Merry Christmas {on the Feast of St. Stephen}

2011-12-26T23:37:00.000-08:00

Visiting the Nativity Scene on Christmas Day at Sacred Heart Catholic Church;

Peter (11), Joseph (13) and Zachary (17)

The thought suddenly struck me during the Christmas Morning Mass: this is likely the last Christmas Mass our three boys will serve together at this Sacred Heart altar. Strange, really strange. For many years Zachary, Joseph and Peter have served Mass together on Sunday mornings and also at funerals, weddings, and many daily Masses, too. But as Zachary heads off to university in the fall, his name will necessarily be dropped from the altar server roster. At next year's Christmas Mass he'll be one with us in the congregation~ a visitor in his home parish.

Following the Midnight Mass, at nearly 2AM; a parking lot pose

Ezra, Joseph, Peter, Chris, T, and Zachary

Zachary's university application process has allowed us to help him fine tune mini-essays on such topics as "What would you do with a $5,000 grant?" and "What would be on your list of once-in-a lifetime activities to accomplish?" I was hoping for something along the lines of: "keep a clean bedroom" for the latter; but his answer concluded with a final goal of reaching heaven, so I can't really complain.

Joseph (thurifer), Peter (cross bearer), and Zachary (acolyte)

serving with our beloved pastor, Father Qui Thac, and two fine young candle bearers on Christmas morning.

Quite unlike the secular proclamation on A2 in today's paper misinforming us that "Christmas is over...", our universal Church celebrates Christmas from now until the Baptism of our Lord in January. In the midst of this Christmas Season, we celebrate the feast days of heroes like St. Stephen, St. John, The Holy Innocents, St. Thomas Becket, The Holy Family, St. Sylvester, The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God (Holy Day of Obligation, January 1st), St. Basil the Great, The Most Holy Name of Jesus, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, St. John Neumann, St. Andre Bessette, The Epiphany of Our Lord...

The holy Octave of Christmas (8 days following Christmas) is just getting started, so don't give in to the temptation to put away the joy of Christmas too soon. On that note, we wish you a very Merry Christmas; you are in our prayers!

Countdown to Christmas

2011-12-24T12:34:00.000-08:00

Watching and waiting for Christmas with only hours to go...

But first, we celebrated Tim's 44th birthday at his parents house.

Potato pancakes highlighted the birthday menu, thanks to Chef Grandpa Cliff and his Polish family recipe.

Tim takes a trip down memory lane, in search of old DnD books to pass along to Zac (none found); boys delight in his old school caps, pennants and rock-n-roll posters.

44 candles atop the apple crisp birthday 'cake'; the force of extinguishing the flames blew the top of the crisp away.

The highlight of our final week of Advent:

Confession and daily Mass at our home away from home, Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Our pastor, Father Qui Thac, spent an hour before and at least an hour after each day's Mass in order to hear all the confessions... how blessed we are to have such access to this amazing, healing grace!

The wrapping continues~the gift giving bug hits hard at our house, and much extra energy goes toward clever wrapping jobs and guessing games.

Amidst Christmas preparations, university admissions deadlines loom, and a new set of SAT scores (incredible) have Zachary on his toes. With his swim team trip to California next week, the time available for completing his college applications is running short.

~and that is a very quick take

on the night before Christmas!

For more Quick Takes, visit Conversion Diary.

'Tis the Season {Prank Candle}

2011-12-21T14:59:00.000-08:00

Peter addresses Christmas card envelopes.

Some of you may have chestnuts roasting on open fire;
we have a fart candle burning while we address Christmas cards.

So, if your Christmas card seems to have a funky odor... perhaps there's a connection to this ridiculous gift Joseph brought home from the Boy Scout gift exchange last night.

Everybody knows a fart candle and some naughtiness,

Help to make a season prank.

Our Boy Scouts with their eyes all aglow,

Will find new ways to share this rank.

Hope In Advent

2011-12-17T23:10:00.000-08:00

Joseph, Peter, Father Santan Pinto, and Zachary; St. Mary Catholic Church, Anacortes, WA

July 2010

Our family was blessed to sit at the feet of Father Santan Pinto+, SOLT, when we attended his mission week in the summer of 2010 at St. Mary's in Anacortes. We were shocked to learn that Father Pinto died suddenly this week in a car accident in India. His beautiful Christmas message, distributed before he departed the US for India, inspires the faithful to grow in humility, poverty and silence. Father Pinto has entered eternity, may he rest in peace with our Lord and our Blessed Mother, whom he loved dearly, followed closely, and served faithfully.

Andi, Hope and Bridget on the steps of Sacred Heart Catholic Church

#1 early Christmas present: Our Goddaughter HOPE came back to Bellingham from her new home in San Diego for a visit. We attended Mass together, and Hope and her daddy, Tim (aka Dr. Dude), brought up the gifts. Our time together included eating satsumas and playing with the twins, as well as lots of wrestling, chasing and laughing. Hope has an awesome sense of humor, and loves to say, "Just joking!" after answering simple questions with puzzling replies.

No, Zac's not pulling his hair out, but he's sure feeling the weight of his Eagle Project these days. Scattered work parties accumulating hundreds of volunteer hours have occurred, and the carport is still on paper. The good news is that Zac still has over six months before his eighteenth birthday, and his Eagle Project should be completed before he's ineligible for Eagle Rank. The great news is Zac has help from some outstanding men (including his dad/my dear husband) who give generously of their free time to assist with the difficult construction tasks. The resident priests and parish staff have shown Zac their support, encouragement and been very patient as the project winds its way toward completion.

Zachary, Joseph and Peter at Mt. Baker Ski Area

With only one disastrous catapult down the face of the mountain, today's ski trip for the boys and Tim could be counted as a great success....except for the rain. ARGH. When it rains at the daily rate, that's one thing, but when the rain falls on weekend prices, now that's a crying shame! They didn't let the heavy snow slow them down, and their enthusiasm for the sport carried them on from opening 'til closing. Due to high school swimming season conflicting with ski season these past few years, the chances to ski with Zachary mid-week simply don't exist; the extra cost of skiing on a Saturday is well worth it to have Zac along. Now if only Zac would learn to drive the 4Runner, Tim could enjoy a nice nap on the ride down the mountain!

Two victories down, and a dozen or so to go for Zac's high school swim team. His role as captain involves leading cheers before, during and after the meets, and it's not as easy as it might seem sometimes. How loud should your team cheer if you are destroying the other team in every heat? A few of his teammates have already qualified for the state meet. They will face some tough challenges ahead, and the hard work at practice (and the cheering and team spirit) will pay off. Most of them (including Captain Zac) are traveling to California for a week of training and a little sight-seeing over Christmas Break. Spending New Year's Eve at Disneyland ought to boost team spirit, though the red-eye flight home the following day won't be a real crowd-pleaser.

If there's one thing Ezra's not, it's a cheer-leader. Despite the fact that leading and encouraging cheering at the meets is part of Ezra's job description as the dive team captain, he just can't bring himself to let out one little hoot or hollar. For those who know Ezra, this goes without saying, and the thought of Ezra letting loose with loud, emotional outbursts in the presence of *gasp* adults and strangers is absurd. His diving has improved significantly over the past two seasons, and he scored a PR of 144 points at the home dual meet this week.

What to do when you find yourself near a pool with a few minutes to spare and no bathing suit....

Happy Birthdays this weekend to my dear friends, Nicole of the sun and Renee of the woods! You are both treasures and incredible role models as mothers, wives and Christian witnesses. You co-create pretty amazing kids, too. May God bless you both!

For more Quick Takes, visit Conversion Diary!

Watching and Waiting {3rd Week of Advent}

2011-12-14T21:50:00.000-08:00

Tony places the nativity figures on our mantle.

Our foster children will be with their parents over Christmas weekend; the regular visits rearranged to make a holiday weekend together possible. For Tony this will be the very first sleep-over with his parent in a new 'safe' living space. He is counting the days in anticipation of his overnight visit, and tells us every day about the rocket ship blankets on his new bed. Today he exclaimed that his parent got a TV, "And it won't even hurt my head, not even a little bit!" Guess he took me seriously when I told him the reason our kids don't watch TV is because it will rot their brains...

Letting these kids go comes with the territory of fostering. Their schedule and ultimate destination is not of our doing or choosing, doesn't need our approval or permission, and changes and fluctuates rapidly and without notice. Of course it would be lovely to have them here with us to share the joy and wonder of Christmas morning, and they will be dearly missed in the sacred moments as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior. But they will be in the arms of a parent whose love is immeasurable and whose desire to hold them and treasure them is real, though they may be in difficult circumstances and facing great challenges.

Of course we will make time to celebrate the holiday with each of them and let them know by our shower of love and a little gift giving, too, that they are treasures to us as well.

Tree Hunting {Chop Chop Chop}

2011-12-10T17:41:00.000-08:00

What do the following have in common?

cancelled naps
three generations
three vehicles
three cameras
double stroller off-roading
young children + sharp tools
hide and seek
candy canes for everyone

Tim takes the twins on a bumpy ride at the tree farm

Joseph carefully inspects the saw blades before choosing his ~~weapon~~ tool of choice;

Peter heads for the trees.

Our annual tree hunting expedition in the foothills of Mount Baker at a family owned tree farm about 30 minutes from home involved a diaper bag for the first time in who-knows-how-many years. The twins didn't complain until their little fingers and toes started to ~~freeze~~ get cold. Theirs was the least exciting role to play: being held hostage in the stroller for a four-wheeling adventure in very monotonous territory. "Seen one evergreen tree, you've seen them all..."

Zachary and Peter circle their prey.

Unless you're a member of our family, in which case you will likely spend days deliberating over the perfect evergreen tree for the year's haul. Joseph planned ahead and wore a second hat so he could use one for marking his favorite tree before the family vote. Since Grandma Billie and Grandpa Cliff also hoped for the perfect tree (of smaller stature) we doubled our searching pleasure.

Joseph takes the prize.

Like any shopping isles, tree farm isles inspire the boys to run, dodge, disappear and hurdle. Tree hunting is an athletic event, and the competition to find the perfect ~~Christmas~~ Advent Tree {which becomes a Christmas Tree ON Christmas} is fierce.

Peter and Joseph raced with saws to be first to attack the trunk again this year; Zachary still doesn't favor the whole seasonal killing of the trees. Now say we were going to burn the tree...he would be the first in line. The boys took turns on saw duty, and Tony experienced the thrill of sawing for the very first time (with close supervision).

Tim, Bridget, Zac, Peter, Joseph, Ezra... and our 2011 tree

A new athletic event was added this year: tree running. Rather than leaving the chopped tree at the side of the lane for the tractor to haul back to the check-out area, Joseph and Peter decided to race the tractor back to home base. Other than losing a hat in their mad dash, it all ended well.

Tree runners attempt to beat the tractor back to the base.

Home, lit, and partially decorated, our tree now has to compete with the dogs for water. Charlie and Rocky seem to think that having a new source of hydration in the home is our early Christmas gift to them. The lower branches are toddler-proof, the non-breakable items ready to be pulled off and played with. Only one gift wrapped and placed under the tree so far, and it's already been mauled by an unnamed pet or small person. The mystery continues...

For more Quick Takes, visit Conversion Diary!

Costco Disaster {Rice Spill}

2011-12-09T14:22:00.000-08:00

Joseph, displeased with the whole situation.

Today I let my boys loose in Costco with their own cart and a shopping list. I tasked them with finding the big paper products and a few other easy to find items from one half of the warehouse. I shopped for the meat, produce and other items, and we rendezvoused near the check-out. Joseph and Peter tend to love speed walking with shopping carts, and need frequent reminders to watch out for elderly shoppers and keep within the acceptable speed limits. Zachary refuses to use a cart, and will double wield hand baskets, hauling unbelievable loads, avoiding all wheeled assistance.

Don't get me wrong: I love their 'enthusiasm' for shopping; but it takes a fair amount of parental management to get through a store without incident. A few years ago, I took them to the mall (the only place selling boys' dress shoes) they made short videos on Zac's phone pretending they had been kidnapped, appealing to authorities for help. Some were shot from inside clothing display racks. I now purchase all their dress shoes online... but I digress.

At the Costco check-out conveyor, Joseph and Peter creatively tossed and passed the grocery items from cart to belt, team-style. Apparently, the bagging clerk was also in the tossing mode, and told his checker, "Go long!" for the paper towels. As the carts were being unloaded, I noticed that Peter and Joseph had picked up the 50 pound bag of rice, rather than our usual 25 pound bag. They love sticky rice!

What a mess!

In an effort to hoist the 50 pound bag of rice from the cart into the back of the van, Joseph inadvertently ripped the bag, spilling about half of the contents onto the pavement. In less than thirty seconds, the birds appeared, and starting snacking. Knowing that raw rice can be deadly for birds, we shooed them away and went for help. A few more attempts to get help finally produced results, and a team of Costco employees scooped up the mess and insisted that we take an unopened bag as a replacement.

Will this rice disaster, and the resulting inconvenient (embarrassing) parking lot side-show neutralize my impulsive helpers? Or will we be found at the scene of future shopping catastrophes? Only time will tell!

Team Captains {Varsity Swim & Dive}

2011-12-07T16:45:00.000-08:00

Ezra and Zachary with saws

Who would believe that we have varsity swim team and varsity dive team captains living together under our roof? Like yin and yang in many ways, Zachary and Ezra each have the honor of the title of team captain this season on the defending AA Washington State championship team (swimming).

Zachary's work ethic, determination to improve, and leadership skills will serve his swim team well this season, as they attempt to earn a fourth straight state AA championship title. After graduating phenomenal swimmers in the past two years, this year's team will need to train hard and pull together for victory. Zachary's personal goal is to compete at the state meet, where he has served as an alternate for the past two seasons. He re-joined the local club swim team last spring, trained through the summer and fall in preparation for his senior varsity swim season, earning swimmer of the month in the process.

Coach Helling, coaching Sehome High School swimming for the 26th year, complimented Zac in a recent team round-up published in our local Bellingham Herald: ...(he) should provide some much needed leadership for the team as well as help Sehome's strength in the freestlye sprints. Zachary was selected as the stand-out among five returning seniors to become the team captain, and we are proud of his accomplishment, but more so of the fine young man he has become.

"(Ezra)... should be a threat to go to state in diving," said Coach Helling in his season-opening interview with the Bellingham Herald. Ezra began diving as a freshman three years ago, as we 'forced' him to participate in high school athletics (or get a job). This season his courage and technique have both improved, and he's already attempting much more difficult dives in his early season training. As the sole diver on this year's team, he won't necessarily be providing leadership, but the role of team captain will benefit Ezra in many ways. Nearly earning a spot at the state meet last year, Ezra's reaching for a spot on the state diving board next February. Time will tell...

Who Let the Elves Out? {Advent Decorating}

2011-12-05T17:03:00.000-08:00

Joseph sets the outdoor timer to display the lighted house from dusk 'til dawn.

A passion for festive decorating hit our house this week with a fury. Ladders scaled, boxes unearthed, extension cords creatively linked, and strings and strings of lights of every variety and color scheme were attached to the front of our house. Joseph set a timer set for optimal display hours, and WHAMMO, our house stood transformed for the season of anticipation of Christ's Birthday. Joseph led the charge as our always-ever-so-excited-puppy-like-holiday-spirit guy. With Peter right by his side, they crafted and conspired to create the desired display. At this very moment, a 15 foot ladder-on-stairs operation is underway (in the dark) in an attempt to put up $20 of new icicle lights (which Joseph purchased with his own funds on a trip to the hardware store with Grandpa Cliff today).

Peter trades out ordinary white for a colorful bulb at the entry-way.

The boys' desire for a festive environment is a distant second to "beating the neighbors" in the sheer volume of display lights on the property. It turns out they were born with a few extra 'competitor' genes, and into a family with a master holiday decorator (Grandpa Cliff) to emulate. With these factors in play, the ongoing efforts at out-doing themselves may well extend into the New Year!

Peter and Joseph work on the roof-top to illuminate the house.

Guests Duncan, Cam and Connor admire the fruits of their friends' decorating labors.

Our Rudolph needs a new nose! He was a gift crafted many years ago by Zac in Grandpa's shop.

Master decorator and craftsman Grandpa Cliff, with apprentice elves Peter and Joseph, assembled the hand-crafted nativity scene in our front yard.

Hooked on Gaming

2011-11-30T10:34:00.000-08:00

Zachary explains the rules of a newly created game to Peter and Zach

There is a multi-generational fascination with gaming in our family. Our boys love playing games of all different varieties and our official game 'closet' takes up almost an entire book case (in the master bedroom of all places!). But the types of games that come in boxes only make up a small portion of the actual game playing that goes on around here.

Zachary's creative genius for inventing games goes way back to his early childhood. From the time he could engage his friends or younger brothers in playing games (any game, inside or outside) he would spend the majority of the time making up complicated, intricate rules and explaining them. Sometimes the playmates would tire of the game long before it ever even started.

Zachary prepares for battle, using a ruler for placement of the players.

A (self published) author at ten years old, Zachary used The Bloodwrath characters to create a role playing game called QTM. Several of his good friends took to QTM and some of their playing sessions lasted well over five hours. One legendary session on the ride to BSA summer camp in Idaho lasted eight hours and nearly drove the driver right off the road!

Cousin Violet helps Grandma Billie with her hand at Hearts.

Peter, Grandma Billie, Joseph and Zachary play a round of Hearts on Thanksgiving weekend.

Any game will do, but the new preferred pass-time for Zachary is DnD. With borrowed books handed down to him by a good friend who used to play DnD with Tim, and the use of pod casts and websites and tips from long-time players, Zachary has amassed quite the store of DnD know-how. He recruited a group of friends from his swim team, who get together regularly to role play using the DnD platform.

Zachary's dice collection

Ultimately, the creative energy expressed in devising, revising, and strategizing in the worlds of gaming gives more than hours of entertainment and fellowship, it grows brain cells and develops problem solving and communication skills. For that reason, on Zachary's high school (home school) transcript, I shall award him an A in Gamesmanship. And for his brothers and gaming friends, an honorary A+ given for going with the flow.

A Thanksgiving to Remember {2011}

2011-11-26T22:58:00.000-08:00

7 things to remember about Thanksgiving 2011:

--- 1 ---

On our way to the epic Thanksgiving feast, we stopped off to meet 4-day old Samuel John, a treasure to behold. His mom, Aileen and I have been friends since second grade, and his family is our family! They welcomed us to meet their precious newborn and treated us to brownies and soda and even let us take turns holding Sam. When I held up my camera for a quick snap-shot (or 10), Sam gave the slightest grin, so dear. If only we lived closer to little Sam, I could fill an entire memory card! God willing, we shall see him again for his baptism in a few weeks.

--- 2 ---

Our first stop at about the halfway mark between Bellingham and Tacoma was for Mass at North American Martyrs in Seattle. This exceptional parish celebrates Mass in the extraordinary form of the Roman rite, or the Tridentine Latin Mass. Their pastor, Father Saguto, a holy priest, is from the The Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter (FSSP) . Tony required a bit of extra coaching and quieting during Mass, and the duty fell upon Tim, who was seated closest to him. The twins spent the holiday with their momma; and although we missed them, their absence made attending this solemn, quiet Mass possible, and we held them close in our prayers.

--- 3 ---

My little brother, known for a serious life-long cat aversion (and allergy), now owns a cat. Who could have seen this coming? Being a cat person myself, I could not resist this fantastically photographic feline, perched on the kids' table welcoming guests.

--- 4 ---

For my little sister, Molly's family, Thanksgiving was also known as 'the day before O'Dea would beat Camas and advance to the state finals in AAA high school football'. The nutritional boost from the big meal must have helped Niko and Mike and their teammates put Camas behind them on their march to the state title. In preparation for their big game, the boys watched a few Thanksgiving football games on TV and kept their pie slice consumption down in the single digits.

--- 5 ---

Exactly ten years prior, Peter John inaugurated his new turkey deep fryer. The thermometer was 100 degrees off, and that poor turkey emerged overly well done (charred). Not known to suffer a loss lightly, Peter John insisted on deep frying again this year, rain or shine. It poured! Donning a full poncho and an umbrella, and double-wielding thermometers, Peter's tenacity paid off and the golden bird was a delight to behold and even better to eat. A second (back-up) turkey, prepared by my mom in her oven only a few blocks from Peter's house, provided ample meat for all to take as left-overs. Molly's mega mashed potatoes and Aunt Sue's stuffing balls rounded out an extravagant meal.

--- 6 ---

Some people are born to entertain, and clearly Michelle and Peter John fit this category. From the seasonal decorations to endless appetizers and table seating for all, their guests were given the royal treatment. The young cousins spent hours playing games like hide and seek, Nerf wars and 'force your way up to the top of the stairs', arriving at the dinner table sweaty and hungry.

--- 7 ---

Thanksgiving officially behind us, yet our celebrating kept up for another 24 hours as Tim's brother's family was in town for the holiday. Uncle Craig and Aunt Bethany (both veterinarians) brought vaccinations for our dogs and made a house call to administer the meds on Friday. Afterward, a few carloads of us headed to visit Tim at work at our pawn shop. Sawyer was in awe with the assorted motorcycle helmets on display. Tim helped Sawyer try on each helmet in succession, and later helped Uncle Craig find a bike for Aunt Beth's Christmas present. Another sumptuous turkey dinner at Grandma Billie and Grandpa Cliffs followed, with plenty of pie for everyone and then some!


For more Quick Takes, visit Conversion Diary!

Pie for 30 {Thanksgiving Preparations}

2011-11-23T17:26:00.000-08:00

Peter, Joseph and Judah peel 24 apples on the back deck.

A truly awesome element of this year's Thanksgiving preparation is how willingly my sons and their friends jumped in to assist. Granted, the workers who live with me will soon have the great enjoyment of actually eating these pies, but the others volunteered just as readily (if not more so) without any promise of tasting the rewards of their labor. These are top-notch friends, worthy Boy Scouts, faithful Christians, and the kind of people for whom we are truly grateful as we celebrate Thanksgiving this year.

Our failed attempt to contain the mess!

Enoch prepares the peeled apples.

Transporting 10+ pies, 4 pounds of fresh cranberry sauce, 1 table, and 7 people 500 miles round trip in one day for a dinner party sounds insane! But this is no ordinary dinner, this is Thanksgiving dinner; our extreme measures will be well worth the effort. One of the greatest perks this year will be meeting Aileen and Rob's brand new baby boy, Samuel John, on his third day of life outside the womb!

Prior to par-baking the apple pie filling, Peter tosses the mixture.

Peter doses the pumpkin pie seasoning with cinnamon.

The biggest fiasco in our pie baking marathon nearly claimed two pumpkin pies. I hastily dumped a double batch of pumpkin pie mix into the waiting crusts before realizing that the key ingredients (sugar and spices pre-mixed by Peter on Monday) were missing. I attempted to pour the pumpkin goo back into the mixing bowl, but the pie crust slipped in as well. Messy, but not disastrous. The second calamity occurred when two of the three apple pies oozed over while baking, the burning syrup setting off a set of screeching smoke alarms. The delicious smell of apple pies was instantly replaced with the raspy odor of burned sugar, and the efforts to air out the place helped lower the interior temperature by a few degrees. Brrr!

Zachary (oh so willingly) helps measure the pecan pie ingredients.

Zachary's main contribution to the cooking effort included shopping for a few of the last minute ingredients and driving the morning shuttle so I could stay home and bake uninterrupted. He willingly measured the pecan pie sugar and syrups and although he snarled for the photo (above), he cooperated willingly. Tim gave the boys a pep talk encouraging them to do whatever I asked of them in order to make the pie baking fruitful. Those are words I love to hear, "Do whatever Mom tells you!"