The Danze Family

The Secrets Planned Parenthood are Keeping

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:32:00 +0000

Early prevention for breast cancer through mammograms is vital. Planned Parenthood only offers manual breast exams, not mammograms.

Free mammograms are available in your area, but NOT through Planned Parenthood.

What Planned Parenthood provides are artificial hormones (i.e., birth control) and abortions, which CAUSE breast cancer.

Take this opportunity to learn the truth. This is from Amber Pilkington of Dignity Women’s Center in San Antonio.

The World Health Organization lists combined oral contraceptives in the highest level of cancer-causing agents (Group 1). "Most combined oral contraceptives are taken orally, but they can also be delivered by injection, transdermal patch or vaginal ring." (Lancet Oncology 2005; 6:552-553)

A Mayo Clinic meta-analysis found the use of oral contraceptives before a first full term pregnancy increases the risk of pre-menopausal breast cancer by 44%. (Mayo Clinic Proceedings 2006;81 (10): 1290-1302) .... this includes use by non-sexually active women who take the birth control pill because they believe it is the only way to help with painful periods, acne, etc. There are other options! Visit www.naprotechnology.com for more information. Don't put your daughter at risk.

Two studies in prominent medical journals have strongly linked use of oral contraceptives with aggressive, deadly, triple-negative breast cancer, which most often affects young women under age 50 and African Americans. (Cancer Research 2010;70 (2): 575-587 and Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention 2009; 18(4) 1157-1166)

Extensive studies since 1957 document a connection between abortion and breast cancer.

Eight medical organizations recognize the link between abortion and breast cancer.

Patrick Carroll (Pension and Population Research Institute) in his study of eight European countries found that abortion is the "best predictor" of future breast cancer rates. (Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons 2007; 12:72-78)

National Cancer Institute branch chief Louise Brinton, Ph.D., M.P.D. co-authored a study reporting a statistically significant 40% increased risk for women with induced abortions. (Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Preventions 2009; 18(4) 1157-1166.

"But the money Susan G Komen gave is not FOR abortions, it's for breast cancer screening."
Any money given to Planned Parenthood helps keep its doors open and supports all of its services. Likewise, former director of Planned Parenthood Abby Johnson has stated that Planned Parenthood does not even do mammograms, they must refer out. There are plenty of other clinics/organizations that could accept the money and use it for real screening who do not do abortions.

There are other organizations that provide research too: the Breast Cancer Prevention Institute (www.bcpinstitute.org).

Breast Cancer Prevention Institute - www.bcpinstitute.org
BCPI Fact Sheets - http://www.bcpinstitute.org/factshts.htm
BCPI Published Studies - http://www.bcpinstitute.org/publishedpapers.htm
Coalition on Abortion/Breast Cancer - www.abortionbreastcancer.com

Support Susan G Komen for making a stance. Email news@komen.org and say Thank you for Defunding Planned Parenthood.

Let's stand together to beat Breast Cancer. Get informed. Get Active. Get Real.

Get Informed. Get Active. Get Real

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:48:00 +0000

Each new day brings choices. Some easy subconscious choices, others tumultuous life-altering choices. Our family choices are different than friends, and that’s what makes humanity so great. We’re happy to be the home schooling, cloth diapering, NFP practicing, daily mass going Catholics. Most families choose alternative routes, but we don’t blow out their candles to make ours brighter. Without the fundamental freedom to choose different paths in life, we would suffocate. On a daily basis, each of us can stand up and defend our choices.

With the newest conscience law pending, Catholics are outraged to discover that their freedom to act morally according to their most dear belief system has been violated. Moreover, our hands will forced to succumb to what we see as the most serious violation. We know that Amish, Quakers, and Christian Scientists have exceptions to laws because of their beliefs, and Catholics need them too. For over 2000 years the Catholic Church has chosen to protect life, and there’s no chance we’re stopping now. Even if you’re not Catholic, please realize that this issue opens the door to so many other injustices and attacks on our constitutional rights. Please take the time to sign this petition: www.stophhs.com

Regardless of what our nation’s administration says, I think overall our nation chooses life. We’ve seen it in the recent Casey Anthony case--people across the board value life. We value justice, and will not tolerate murder. What is so startling is that that same poor soul in heaven could have been lawfully murdered in utero with the pop of a couple pills, and not many would have blinked. Because it’s legal, so therefore it must be ok. But it doesn’t have to be.

We all have the obligation to do our part in improving humanity. There are multiple ways the prolife movement needs help. First and most importantly, prayer is needed to change the laws and change the hearts. Aid at every stage of abortion is needed: pre-natal care, safe havens for pregnant mothers, prayer warriors to stand in peace before the abortion clinics, post-abortive care for women and men, and more.

Eli and I have chosen to help educate the pro-life youth, and are trying to change lives. We are blessed to be a part of planning San Antonio’s Get Real pro-life youth conference on March 25th. This year we’re thrilled to be hosting Dr. Janet Smith, an internationally renowned speaker on bioethics and pro-life teachings who has appeared on Fox Morning News, CNN, and EWTN. San Antonio Coalition for Life’s President Amy Vorhees will share what abortion clinics are keeping secret. We’ll be teaching students how to defend life and bring a Get Real pro-life club to their campus.

How can you help? Can you pray for the success of the conference? Could you pass along the conference information to a friend and help spread the word?
We all have different gifts, and we need to use them. Let's start TODAY.

Get Informed. Get Active. Get Real.

In a Quiet Stable in Bethlehem Town

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 21:15:00 +0000

Every year it's our family goal to quietly reflect on the true significance of Christmas during the preparation time of Advent. We have a few traditions to make more of an impact on the children of what a momentous event Christ's birth meant for all of history. Some of the favorite activities we did were so simple, though already Emily asks when we can do them again. For example, a simple countdown paper chain made of purple and pink strips added to our evening Advent prayer time. We have a small advent calendar, light our advent wreath candles, say a prayer, and sing "Oh Come oh Come Emmanuel". The kids get a bell and ring their little hearts out when singing the words REJOICE! They love it. We also have a stocking hung for Jesus in which the kids can give him presents--little love notes or treasures or mommy will write one of their sacrifices down and stuff it inside.

This year we were invited to do something a bit different for Christmas. We drove out to the tiny Texan to attend "Main Street Bethlehem" with a couple family friends. The town sets up a beautiful model of what Bethlehem looked like the day Christ was born. Volunteers from the city (of all different faiths!) dress up and reinact the town. It truly felt as if you walked into a time warp. As we moved through the small town, we saw how the people 2000 years ago lived. There were people in costume gathered around the fire cooking their dinner. Many praying and studying in the synagogue. Kids running around announcing the Messiah had been born. Tax collectors making a scene and dragging people off to jail. Jewlery makers, candle makers, market workers, and even a couple of camels. No one last-minute shopping for presents or stressing about decorations or complaining about visiting inlaws. Although it was packed, the crowd was so peaceful and respectful. They were there to see our the true meaning of Christmas.

There was quite a line. We were freezing and snuggling.
Emily loves her Nana!

We played games and ate popcorn to pass the time. (Leo loves the big boys!)

We finally made it inside to the first room and were taught how to make candles by alternating dipping a long cord into hot wax and water. Such patience and grace these ladies presented!

The townspeople were bursting with excitement that the Messiah had been born.

When we asked this carpenter if he had known Joseph, he replied in a thick Texan accent "y'all just mosey on 'round the corner and take a gander at 'there star." We had a good laugh.

We followed the star, saw the manger, and were blown away. There were thousands of people here, but it was silent. We had found the diamond in the ruff. Jesus, born in muck, next to stinky and loud donkeys, in scratchy hay, was beautiful.

Waiting for St. Nick

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 14:17:00 +0000

Ho Ho Ho

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 14:10:00 +0000

Santa: "Oh, hello little girl. What would you like for Christmas?"
Emily: "A Princess Castle!!!!!!!!!!"
Santa: "Wonderful. And what would you like little boy?"
Leo: "A bird."
Santa: "A book?"
Leo: "No. A red bird."
Santa: "hmmmmm. ok"

Strange kid. He also requested twin birds. This might just be a tricky year for Santa!

Oh Dear, Caught Me Again Mommy

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 14:01:00 +0000

Everything I know I've learned from my sister.

Giving Thanks

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 20:06:00 +0000

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays of the year. I love it because everyone around the country has a chance to pause from their busy life and ponder their numerous blessings. Each year my list grows bigger, this year with the addition of a new life who has already beautified the world in his own lovely way. This is also a great time of year to extend generosity to others less fortunate. Growing up I always dreamed of devoting myself to the poorest of 3rd world countries. Eventually I realized that perhaps the most fruitful charity work to be done was in my very own family. Through forgiveness. Through sacrifice. Through spiritual nourishment. Through love. So I encourage you during this advent season to go the extra mile for your family and friends--out of thanksgiving for all that the Lord has blessed you--and pay it forward in your own special way.
Here are some of my favorite people to be thankful for:

A devoted and loving servant leader who guides me and my children to a closer relationship with Christ.

A sweet little girl maturing before my eyes. Also thankful for Catholic education and wonderful teachers, and the supporting parish community.

A cheerful burst of sunshine who has the uncanny ability to make everyone laugh.

A beautiful sign of hope for this world.

Playing catch-up

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 00:44:00 +0000

It feels like an eternity since I've had the chance to sit down and blog, but hopefully you 3 faithful readers wont mind. We've had more eventfulness 'round here where the party never ends. The most recent excitement included a trip to the ER after I slipped on water while carrying 30lb Leo and shattered the bone in my ring finger. My guardian angel is working serious overtime because Leo could have cracked his hard head right open (he walked away with just a small bump), or worse it could have been sweet baby Max. Luckily I dont need surgery *crossing fingers* and I'll just have to wear a split for 6 wks. So instead of writing about anything remotely interesting, I'm just going to post some pictures of recent happenings. Enjoy:)

Even cowboys grocery shop

Snuggly brothers

Hugs goodbye before leaving for school

Max being his sweet self

Fashionable even while studying physics

Sunday Fundays

Starbucks date with my favorite girl

Kiddie Park

Daddy's Girl

Yum.

Dreaming

Nana & Grandaddy

Great Grandpa Leo and Great Grandma

Papa and Grandma & Danze cousins

Sleepy Babies

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 02:35:00 +0000

Being two months old is pretty much fantastic. By now, Max is a pretty decent sleeper at night and cat naps all day. He eats quicker and stays fuller longer. His head is getting stronger, but he still is a big snuggler. With my other babies, I was always anxious for the next stage--I couldn't wait for them to sit up, or crawl, or eat solids. How quickly this sweet newborn phase passes without even realizing until it's gone forever! I'm trying my best to enjoy every day with my tiniest little love.

Max at 2 months
Weight: 12 lbs 5.5 oz, 70% (weighed 9.2 at birth)
Height: 23 1/4", 55%
Head: 15.6" 45%

Leo at 2 months
Weight: 13 lbs. 8 oz (weighed 8.7 at birth)
Height: 22 3/4"
Head: 15 1/4"

Emily at 2 months
Weight: 4 lbs. 11 oz (weighed 2 lbs at birth)

Our Pumpkins in the Patch

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:12:00 +0000

October finally brought some tollerable temperatures in south TX, meaning we wouldn't be scorching hot as long as we made it inside by lunchtime. One of our favorite traditions is a daytrip out to our local apple orchard/pumpkin patch. The drive is beautiful into the hill country and you can even see a couple (ok maybe like 2) trees with fall foliage. The pumpkin patch includes everything from painting pumpkins, hayrides, puppet shows, and insanely good apple ice cream.
Good ol' Dad. Takin' one for the team.

I think we learned more about apples than pumpkins that day. Makes me want an apple tree in our backyard! See the orchard in the background?

Why are my kids the ones who are always fearless--or clueless-- and trying to get in the petting zoo pen? Last year Leo's hand was almost eaten by a cow. This year, it was a pot belly pig.

We never take pictures in front of these cheesy backgrounds. This just happens to be the only picture I can think of with me and all my babies.

Good times:)

Halloween Madness

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 19:13:00 +0000

After 2 parties, a carnival, a halloween parade, and trick or treating, we're all in a sugar coma!
I'm not positive, but I think this may be the very first Danze male to take up ballet.

Paging Dr. Danze! Move over Aunt Lauren...you've got some competition!

These buckets are empty...let's get the show on the road Daddy!

Superman to the rescue!

Monster Max

Dare I say we've adjusted?

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 03:35:00 +0000

Now that it's been 2 months with a new baby in the house, I think it's safe to say that we've found our new "normal" routine. We're all still trying to kick croup, colds, blah blah blah...such is life! I can't tell you how thrilled I am to be cooking and doing the chores for our little family again. Letting go of control was harder than I would have ever thought, but it gave me a lot of time to appreciate how wonderful and helpful Eli and the kids are. Emily has always been eager to help out with cleaning and cooking, but recently she's taken on a whole new realm of responsibility. She has unbelievable patience for Max's fussiness. Especially at times when I need to put him down for a minute, I return to see Emily holding his paccy in place and singing him songs. Leo still is fighting for our attention, and prefers to assert himself through bouncing as close as possible to Max without actually being *on* him. Max's temperment is somewhere in the middle of the spectrum...not as needy and sensitive as Emily, but not as easy going as Leo. I just love to see how they interact without my direction.

Entertaining little Max during tummy time.

Mommy in the making.

Brahma Parade

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 02:49:00 +0000

Each year we look forward to the high school parade down our street, and in years past we've camped out with family and friends in our front lawn. This year, the hubby was out of town. Since we've upped the ante with another child, I decided to make life easy and just run outside when we could hear the band. Emily and Leo were so excited that they could barely eat their dinner, and their necks were craned towards the front window nearly the whole day.

Finally as the band was getting close, we found a spot and Emily began to yell "Hook em Horns!"--her Daddy would be proud. The whole longhorn vs. brahama discussion was for some reason not convincing to her.

This happened to be the day they were locked in the car, and Emily was convinced that the very same fire truck that rescued her would be leading the parade that evening, hence the look of dispair in her face.

I wish I had better pictures, but once candy was thrown in their direction, it was all over!

Brotherly Love

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 13:26:00 +0000

There was never a question in my mind if the boys would love each other.
I just didnt know it would be this cute:)

Life is Beautiful

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 18:35:00 +0000

Oh Max, you’ve only just arrived into our lives, and yet we can hardly remember life without you. 7 weeks ago you were still on the inside, passing the day with kicks and hiccups. Most of your day and night is spent snuggled close to me--just the way we like it. The sleepy wrap is your favorite and within seconds of use, the wrap lives up to his name. I know how quickly this stage goes by. Can I bottle it up? I can’t get enough of your cooing, sleepy sighs, and newborn smell. You sent all of our hearts gushing today with your beautiful smile. Thank you Max, for changing our lives.

Crime Scene

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 13:40:00 +0000

This morning I overheard Emily squealing, "Leo, don't rip his head off! Just push the button!!"

Barbie now features a detachable head. Lamest attempt to brother-proof Barbie. Ever.

Suspects: Mistah Bubble (Mr. Incredible), Bite-year (Buzz Lightyear), Mistah T (Mr. T...be jealous...that's my brother's circa 1984) and toww (cow).

Why google is my friend.

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 03:26:00 +0000

I learned something new this weekend.
Perhaps you find a mischevious 4 year old girl who has located the missing super-glue and attached her dress to her entire belly...what do you do?
Margarine.
Just in case you were wondering.

I love this girl.

Bad Luck Streak

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 01:38:00 +0000

Eli is sitting on the couch, looking so depressed that you'd think his dog just died. Crews are working on our cable, meaning there's no chance of watching the Rangers on TV. We've had some bad luck lately, and apparenly this is the icing on the cake.

But seriously, listen to this. I'm starting to wonder if this house is cursed.

It all started two very long weeks ago when we were feeling victorious. 4 weeks post-partum and we survived the stomach flu, a different stomach bug, my gallbladder attacking me, and surgery that put me in bed for a week. I was recovered from surgery enough to sit up all by myself (I was so pathetic I could barely take being around myself) and the cabin fever induced dilirium lead me to believe a roadtrip would bring an end to our bad luck. We had a great time in Austin, getting most of the cousins together and squeezing in a visit with Eli's grandparents. A couple people made comments on how tired Eli looked. Did they forget how much he had on his plate? (all the while i'm thinking... c'mon Eli, you're not that tired. stop being so dramatic. because i'm really sympathetic). But then, he slept for the next 48 hours. His muscles were so sore that he couldn't button his shirt or hold open his jaw to brush his teeth. After taking him to the doctor for round two of testing, I started to panic when words like lupus, fibromyalgia, and HIV poured out of my doctor's lips. A couple days later Eli turned a corner with the pain, and the blood work showed improvement with his white blood cells. We dodged a bullet. Our doctor who has been practicing over 30 years had never seen anything like it. I'd been praying that God would send something to bring me closer to Eli, and help me be like Christ to him. Mission accomplished. (except for that whole being Christlike thing, in which I was completely lousy)

The next day to celebrate, we took the kids to a fancy haircut place and to get some frozen yogurt. After 1.5 hours (HOURS!!) of cutting bangs, our children looked like they stepped straight out of 1980 with mullets and bowl cuts. I cried, argued with the stylest, (ok, I yelled at her a lot and feel terrible) and she just continued to cut. Did I mention I'm trying to be God-like? Fail again. I prayed and prayed that I could fix the damage and it wouldn't be so noticible for our family portait scheduled for this weekend. (what? I'm not vain. Geez!!) I was so upset that we skipped TCBYs.

Sunday was a new day. A day of rest--the Lord's day. We had so much to be thankful for, and appreciated our good health. I still couldn't look at the kids without cringing, but I had to suck it up and move on. I made a pumpkin cream pie because I've been fasting from sweets for 40 days for life. But then before I got even a bite, the pie mocked me by falling on my freshly mopped kitchen floor. Glass shattered everywhere. There are just...no words.
But alas, the pie pan wasnt the only thing to break. Then next day it was the mop. Then the vent hood. And the toaster. And the printer broke. And the car.

WHAT WAS GOING ON?!? I think I needed a lesson in humility.

Monday brought crisp, sunny weather. Mass was beautiful and we saw our favorite 95 year old priest who bends down to his knees to hug the kids. I had a great meeting to plan our 3rd annual prolife youth conference featuring Dr. Janet Smith. (yay!!!) God was blessing me beyond measure.

Tuesday was equally wonderful. I made it to my Women of Grace group where we discussed meditative and contemplative prayer. I've been so prideful lately and thought I already knew how to pray. I hopped over to St. Joseph downtown for noon mass with Fr. Mario. I felt warm and fuzzy inside. Life was great. FINALLY!

Wednesday was down right cold for a Texan girl. I was trying to make it to 8am mass and frantically searched for sweaters for the kids. I'm pretty sure I was yelling to everyone and everything to hurry up (like, stop acting like you're two!!) and shoved everyone in the car. (because I'm sweet and sensitive like that, and stressing them out is exactly how you get your kids to be holy and quiet for mass). I close their door and hear it lock. My heart skips a beat. Glancing to the front seat I see my purse, phone, and keys. Max is screaming. I bang on the window tell Emily to get out of her carseat and unlock the door. She's stuck and is scared. Stupid 5 point harness! All 3 kids are crying hysterically. I run to my neighbor's to use her phone. No answer. Run across the street. No answer, no answer, no answer. (what are you doing at 8am?? c'mon people!) Finally about 5 houses down, just as I'm about to LOSE MY MIND, the front door opens. Within minutes the fire truck is parked outside my house and firemen are saving my babies. They're telling me that their own lil 4 year old could get out...that I strap mine in too tight. What's wrong with these people?! I thought a seatbelt was supposed to keep a kid in the carseat. Do they even realize that I'm super hormonal and I can't help my kids whose faces are beet red and tear stained and traumatized? I'm about to strangle them. (patience...patience) Max cried so hard that he passed out. Leo is yelling through tears "max is crying, leo is crying, emily is crying, and leo's scared!!" 45 minutes felt like hours, but we were all safe. So many heroes saved the day. My heart was gushing with gratitude. (ok, so my heart was still completely panicking, but *later* it was gushing with gratitude)

So there you have it. It's like a comedy of errors, with a happy ending. All harmless bad luck. Everyone's safe and sound and ready for whatever else God throws at us! (but honestly, I would be just fine with a couple boring days this week too:)

So long gallbladder, it was nice knowing ya

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 02:09:00 +0000

My body is a jerk. An innocent little organ is being rejected and it's putting up a good fight to stay. Apparently there are these things called polyps which have grown thanks to my cells dumping healthy cholesterol on my gallbladder. They're pretty harmless except that they're too big and may turn into gallstones eventually. Even though passing stones sounds like buckets of fun, I had to make a decision. So the poor little guy will have to go tomorrow during the procedure to repair the hernia caused by growing gigantic children.
FUN!
What's even more fun? Being away from my 3 week old. He's so sweet and squeaky, smells like heaven, and is the most beautiful symbol of hope in the world. You'd think I'd be ok with this, seeing as how I was away from Emily for 82 days while she was in the NICU. Tomorrow we'll be apart for about 5 hours and I choke up just thinking about it. Please pray that my lil chubbs will be good for his Daddy!
On that note...
Here's some snuggly pictures!!

Happy Birthday Eli!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 20:27:00 +0000

This weekend we celebrated Eli's 28th birthday! We had a really great night beginning with mass was concelebrated by Archbishop Gustavo and Bishop Cantu at San Fernando Cathedral. Following mass we were thrilled to be able to attend the JPII CHS gala honoring Karl Keating, the founder of Catholic Answers. Mr. Keating's speech inspired us to continue to live an authentic Catholic life despite what society and history suggests.

On Saturday we took advantage of the cooler weather (ya know, below 100*) and treked down to the Pearl Farmers Market. We had a nice little picnic down by the river and played soccer in the park!

And as if that wasn't a great day so far, we topped it off with a visit to the Children's Museum! Here's our little construction workers after operating the dump truck.

On Sunday my parents had us over for yummy steaks and a swim.

Happy 3 week birthday Max!

It's a Boy!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Sun, 18 Sep 2011 16:14:00 +0000

The Labor
We had a surprise visit from two of my sisters from Dallas for the weekend, so I was determined to naturally induce labor. We started the day at mass at St. Joseph’s and afterwards I spent most of the day on my feet and praying. Eli was a good sport and humored me in all of my raspberry tea-spicy food-requests. Contractions began at 5pm, as per usual for the past 15 weeks, but this time I felt like I could put mind over matter and make these contractions work. So we put the kids to bed at my parents house and conned my sisters and dad into power walking down to star bucks. By the time we got home it was 10 pm and contractions had been 5 minutes apart for an hour. It was go time!

The Delivery
As I waited in the triage 3cm dilated for an hour; Eli was becoming doubtful and I was growing anxious. Then I had a miraculous 4.5cm measurement and a move to LDR at midnight. 3am epidural was a success (yay! Third time’s the charm!) At 7am we called the doctor with news that I was dilated to 8cm. Then we waited for what felt like years until about noon for the doctor to come break my water since the baby still wasn’t turned. The doctor left and while we waited for him to return, I started “practice” pushing, thinking I would have to work hard to turn the baby for delivery. My nurse was awesome, and on about my 5th push, the baby turned and she had to hold the baby inside me while screaming on her phone to get the doctor STAT!

The Baby
Maximilian Joseph was born on September 4th at 1:33 pm, weighing 9 lb2oz and 21” long. Resembling his big brother, Max has dark hair, fair skin, and the most adorable little dimple in his chin. He was named after two of our favorite saints. Eli and I walked through the concentration camp at Auschwitz in 2003 and remember the cell in which St. Maximilian Kolbe was martyred, sacrificing his life for a father and husband. Truly a modern day saint to emulate. Read about his story here! St. Joseph is a strong father figure as Christ's foster father, and much like both of our fathers in action and love. We have a deep devotion to Joseph and we pray to him daily for guidance and example.

The Family
Nothing fills your heart more than the beautiful love between brothers and sister. Our first week home was fantastic--I felt great, Max was a natural at breastfeeding, and Daddy was home to take the kids to Kiddie Park and the Children’s Museum. Wonderful friends kept meals on the table. We couldn’t have felt more thankful for the easy transition to a family of five. Things were so great that went to MOPS and my bible study, and had** a girls night out. Eli went back to work and squeezed in an out of town trip and a missions game. Commence week 2. I started having extreme stomach cramps. I ruled out the flu when the cramping got so bad after the 2nd day that I could barely walk or sit up. Eli’s mom was providentially visiting the next day and could babysit the kids while I saw my doctor. Turns out I most likely have a hernia of the abdomen and the bowels were squeezed between the muscle, and thus I have an appt with the surgeon next week. Then last night we were hit by a stomach bug. Thank goodness it’s the weekend and we can all snuggle on the couch together and watch UP! :)

Let's get the show on the road!

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 19:32:00 +0000

I didn’t think I’d be ever saying this, but miraculously we’ve made it to full term on the longest pregnancy known to man. Yeppers, you read that right. This baby could be born today and (crossing fingers) would go home with me tomorrow! But let’s not jump the gun here.

As a typical hormonal pregnant mommy, I’m actually feeling pretty darn emo. I guess when I went into labor at 23 weeks, I assumed that I would be meeting this bambino a lot sooner than now. The past 14 weeks have been rough. I’ve seen a 1.5 lb baby, and that’s rougher. The shots, bed rest, meds, compression stockings, dr. appointments every week, diet, inability to exercise, heartburn and nausea, 1000 daily contractions…they all did their best to bring us down. But God’s grace held us up. Our little family of 4 is stronger thanks to the presence of another human being who has yet to show his face.

So what’s next? I know it’ll be hard. The kids will be jealous and vying for my hugely sleep deprived attention. Our house will be in shambles and we’ll eat pizza every night. The TV will replace me on the floor, playing and breaking up fights over who gets which toy. Eli will come home after work to start his second job of picking up my slack. I’ll be sore, cranky and relearning how to nurse and get a baby to sleep. However, pulling together as a team, each one of us will learn how to adjust and enjoy the new family dynamic. Even though these are small sufferings, they'll still bring us closer to Christ. We look forward to giving more of ourselves and become servants, just as Jesus called us to do. Our kids are especially blessed because from such a young age they naturally learn the virtues--Faith, Hope, Charity, Fortitude, Justice, Temperance, Prudence.

Our latest sonogram measures the baby to be 7 lbs, and I’m fully effaced and dilated 2 cm. Let’s get this show on the road! We can't wait to meet you baby and find out if you're a boy or a girl. But baby, could you just wait until after this Thursday? We're a bit busy this week:)

Back to school, to prove to dad you're not a fool!

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 13:39:00 +0000

Dear Emily and Leo,

There I stood, same usual place and time to wave goodbye to Daddy, but today it was different. It was so quiet that I could hear the morning runners’ feet pad the sidewalk. As I looked out, your two tiny faces were craning to wave to me from the backseat squished with a princess backpack, nap mats, lunch boxes and a “nigh-men-men-keen” (lightening McQueen) backpack. It’s the first day of school. I held back a tear and showed my best smile and mouthed I love you.

Emily you’re a lucky girl. All the 8th graders at your school (classmates of Aunt Teresa) practically shove through a crowd to yell hello and ask for a hug. You love all the extra attention, and pride yourself in being your teacher’s “good helper girl” since you know the drill from last year. For the past couple weeks, you’ve awakened with the squeaky yet raspy voice of a 4 year old asking “today, mama? Can I go to school today?” You’ve had your uniform set out for weeks, have been planning to spend lots of time in the home center and hoping the boys don’t take over the block center like last year. I can’t wait to hear all about your new friends and what new tattle tales you’re excited to tell me.

Leo you‘re a lucky boy too. “Pe-NA, mommy? Fwiens?” Yes, Leo, you’ll have a blast with Mrs. Pena and your friends. At the meet the teacher day, without any prompting from me, you marched straight up to your teacher and said Hi Pe-Na with a big hug. She already loved you and couldn’t wait to meet the nephew of her former students. You went from 2 yr old to 2 yr old waving, hugging, saying hi. I knew from that moment that I just have to stand back and marvel at all you can bring to the world. Mr. Independent--not afraid of being curious, sensitive, generous, rambunctious. This morning you’ll insist on buckling your carseat all by yourself and carrying your very own big and heavy backpack. I can’t wait to see you grow up to be a boy full of character, but for today (and everyday until the new baby is born), you’re still my sweet baby boy.

I love you,
Mommy

Terrific Two's

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 02:14:00 +0000

The first year of a child is a constant whirlwind of changes and milestones. As new parents, your entire world has been flipped upside down and you begin to obsess over how much or little your 10 lb. chub eats or sleeps. Over time, the sweetness develops some kind of sleep pattern, and you sigh with relief after crossing the first hurdle of parenthood. Whew, you think to yourself, thank goodness I'm such a great parent and totally have this new baby thing under control. With each new challenge mastered, you pat yourself on the back and march forward with your chin up. Each new milestone is documented with 127 pictures and carefully marked in the baby book. When Emily first rolled over at 8 months, I called my parents so excitedly that they thought we won the lottery. All of the hours reading child development books have paid off!

But then, something very strange happens:

The age of 2.

You see, kids are smart and they've heard about the infamous terrible twos, and they know they have to bring their A-game. They don't mess around. There's only 365 days to live up to this terrible two phenomenon, and boy are they going to live it up.

It's all gotta start somewhere. They make one sly move of independence just to catch their parent off guard, and then BAM! It's on.

When Emily turned two, she got lucky. Eli and I were drowning in a pool of new baby Leo plus buying our first money-pit (errr...house) Nothing quite says "now is the time to make my 2 year old debut" as 2 adults running around like chickens with their heads chopped off.

So wouldn't you know, Emily took charge of her life on August 11, 2009. That night, she decided that she was just flat out too old to sleep in a crib. In fact, she's too old to sleep period. Absolutely no naps ever again. And while she was thinking about it, she decided to refuse the high chair too. And sippy cup. She was on a roll. No more diapers. She'd rip that sucker off with disgust. "I dooooo eeet" was her favorite phrase.

Have you ever met a 2 year old? She weighed about 20 lbs and couldn't reach the door handle. I'll show her who's boss, I thought. I'll whip her into shape in 5 seconds flat.

At least, that was the plan.

The next 2 years were slightly a blur.

Leo's 2nd birthday brought the gift of stubbornness. He's slowly unwrapping it, savoring each moment. You see, he has an older sister who's still hanging onto that 2 year old gift of stubbornness, and she's about to be 4. So he's got plenty of time to use it up and wear it out.

Looking back on pictures, I have to tell you the truth. I'm a bit scared of the future. 3 kids, 4 and under. We're definitely outnumbered now. However, there will come a day when Emily will harness this fortitude and perseverance into something positive. And absolutely nothing will stand in her way. So watch out world!

Here's a look back at some of Emily's favorite ways to assert her independence and creativity:

The facial.
We'd had a long summer of applying sunblock, and by then it was just second nature to rub something all over your face. Nevermind if it was lotion, mayonnaise, glue, or diaper rash cream.

The Sneakout.
Remember how Emily liked to protest cribs and naps? We'll just skip the part about her extreme sleep issues all together and look at these cute pictures. Even as an almost 4 yr old she still fights sleep with all her little might and continues to be an insomniac. I'd go to her room in the middle of the night and discover her missing, panic, then find her sleeping under a chair or on a shelf.
Or on the cold tile floor.

The Robbery
We finally drew the line on the pacifier when we realized, hey! You're completely potty trained...you're too old for this! Then commenced the frequent sneak into baby brother's crib and take the paci right out of his warm mouth.

The Baglady
This phase followed an intense basket-lady period wherein an urge to clean turned into hording and clearing out drawers and cabinets compulsively. Personally, I loved all the time spent working diligently to fill the laundry baskets. If ever a friend or family member gave me the "I'm in the neighborhood and would love to swing by and see your new house" I'd put her to work. Not so handy if you're looking for your toothbrush or keys or clean underwear and need to sift through 10 bags real quick.

As you can see, Leo has some very large 2 year old shoes to fill. He's not quite as willful as his sister, but he's a boy. And I hear that's a whole different ballgame. Wish me luck!

Summertime Fun

noreply@blogger.com (Kate) — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 18:54:00 +0000

Can you believe it's almost August? AUGUST!! Us Danzes love summer because we love to keep insanely busy with traveling and super awesome summer projects. Us Danzes also despise summer because it goes waaaay too fast and we're left doing a bazillion procrastinated chores. Like 6 loads of laundry. A day. Fun.

So what on earth have we been doing that's so super awesome??

Celebrating!!

On Father's Day the kids helped me make pancakes with whipped cream from scratch (if you have not tried this, you must. bisquick + cool whip just ain't cuttin it these days)for Daddy's traditional breakfast in bed. Best dad ever right there.

We also drove out the the Rock to spend Father's Day with Eli's dad and family. As per usual I dropped the ball on getting a picture with the Danzes, but I got lots of sweet Daddy pictures playing with his fearless kids. Thank goodness there's a gate there.

The next weekend we went to Austin to celebrate Great Grandpa Leo's 80th birthday. You know those times when your toddler and preschooler skip naps? By 6pm they're rather fun to be around. I mean, seriously, throw in a fancy restaurant and relatives who actually want to converse and you've got a real party!

But we wouldn't miss this for the world. After all...we did name our firstborn son after Great-Grandpa!

My parents, sisters, and Nona came over to celebrate our 5th anniversary and my 27th birthday. Have you ever tried fondue? YUM! We broke in our new dining room table handed down from my great great aunt...if that table could talk!!

The Harkins reunion came next--in Florida! 28 hours total drive time and the kids did GREAT. I had no idea it was even *possible* to have a tolerable road trip with my kids. We survived with a couple things: movies, dramamine, junk food, and about 10 presents each from the dollar store. Then being the center of 45 Harkins' love and attention was just enough to spoil them completely rotten. Life couldn't get any better! The waves were pretty intense compared to the TX coast, but that didn't stop our sand-diving-wave-jumping-football-throwing kids.

Leo turned 2 at the beach along with his 2nd cousin Mae Rose. He was a champion candle blower-outer.

But Wait! There's More! We spent a weekend in Ft Worth to congratulate my smarty pants sister Lauren's entrance into MEDICAL SCHOOL! We're so proud of her hard work and perseverance.

We've had the best summer ever and fully intend to enjoy every last second of the 2 weeks we have left before school starts!