The Kennedy Adventures!

Finally Nesting: Small Successes

2012-05-17T18:03:33Z

I’ve been seriously praying for energy, since I have so much left to do before this baby gets here. (in 3 weeks or less!) Thankfully, God heard me this week – I’ve finally felt good enough to get things done.

1. Kudos to my husband, for setting up my play yard for me. My mother picked out a great neutral print, and it’s sitting right beside my bed, ready for the baby.

2. I also sent Brett up into the attic, to bring down my stash of cloth diapers, gifted to me by my friend Susan. I’ve got at least 25, with more covers on the way. Hooray! I’ll be prepping those in the next few days, getting them all ready to go.

3. I scored major mom points, and didn’t even stress out.
I was told by my favorite bakery that they couldn’t get to my cakes this week. No sweat. This momma will be making Batman and Spiderman cupcakes, just like the boys ‘ordered’.

Head over to Catholic Mom, and share your small successes!

Happy Mother’s Day! Saints and Scripture Sunday

2012-05-13T04:19:15Z

Proverbs 22:6
Train up a child in the way he should go,
Even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Being pregnant, and raising many small children keeps motherhood in the front of my mind. In this season of my life, I’m surrounded by children, and that’s just the way I like it.

Today, I’m thankful for the women who have shaped my life through motherhood (my mother and grandmothers, as well as my mother in law).

My prayers are going up in thanksgiving today, for the opportunity to be a mother. I’m drawing close to Our Blessed Mother in prayer, as an example for motherhood

I’m also keeping mothers in my heart today affected by pregnancy or infant loss, infertility, or struggling with mother-daughter relationships. It’s a joyous day for some, but a bittersweet one for others.

What does Mother’s Day mean to you?

Looking for more faith filled posts? You’ll find me visiting Soli Deo Gloria,Jump Tandem,Scripture and a Snapshot, Sunday Snippets, Spiritual Sundays, Hear it on Sunday, Playdates with God,Titus 2sday,On Your Heart Tuesday,Domestically Divine Tuesdays,Gratituesday,Word Filled Wednesdays, Walk With Him Wednesdays, iFellowship, and Good Morning Girls.

10 Things to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Labor and Delivery

2012-05-09T12:02:40Z

It’s a little over one month until the expected arrival of Baby 5.0 — so it’s time to pack the hospital bag! Hooray!

1. Moisturizer/lip gloss
Hospital air is notorious for being dry, so extra moisturizer and lip gloss are essential.

Some of my favorites?

Made on lotion is a hard lotion bar, stored in a tin. The 2 oz size is perfect to slip in your purse, diaper bag, or cosmetic bag, and you won’t have to worry about spilling!

If you’re close to Louisville, be sure and check out Earthy Browns. One of my closest friends (as well as fellow twin momma and homeschooling momma) is blessed to have a fabulous family business featuring handmade soaps, lotions, lip balms and more! I’ll be packing some of the lemongrass soap in my bag, and I have Earthy Browns lip balm in every purse/tote bag I own. I LOVE IT!

Me, in my sweaty Sweaty Band!

2. Headbands

When there’s work to be done, no matter if it’s cleaning the house, running, or being hard at work delivering a baby, I’d better have my hair out of my face.

My favorite headbands ever? Sweaty Bands! These are thick, non slip, and have kept my hair out of my face for a 13.1 mile run! Available in all sorts of colors, including a cute Baby on Board version! (code buy-now gets you 5% off!)

3. Music
I’ve never been one to try music out while in labor, mostly because it’s been a fast and furious adventure.

My sweet buddy (and amazing photographer) Jessica was kind enough to send me happy, serene labor vibes with her CDs. I’ll be loading these into iTunes and sticking them in my bag.

4. Chargers for iPad, camera, cell phone, etc

I know my husband and I will be bringing plenty of electronic devices on our trip to the hospital. The last thing I want is for a still camera or video camera to go dead. I’ll be making sure these are in the suitcase, ready to go. An extra memory card might come in handy as well.

5. Nursing bras

I’m a breastfeeding momma, so a big section of my hospital bag will be devoted to breastfeeding accoutrements. I’ve learned that it’s beneficial to spend more on quality, especially if you’ll be returning to work at some point.

What do I own?

Japanese weekend sleep bras – these are lighter support, perfect for sleeping, or lounging around the house.

Heading out of the house, I prefer nursing tanks, for covering up the side pudge, and offering me a little more coverage for nursing in public.

Glamour mom nursing tanks are my go-to, workhorse nursing tanks. They are available in a rainbow of covers, some with lace trim. The longer versions are catching my eye now, since I’m going to feel self conscious about being post partum at the pool.

Even better than GlamourMom are the Bravado nursing tanks These offer a little bit more separation between the girls, and doesn’t look so uni-boob.

If you’re not worried about getting pregnant while your baby is small, your husband might appreciate this lacy number!

6. Nipple Cream

Breastfeeding may be natural, but that’s not a guarantee that it’s easy. There are steps you can take to make yourself a bit more comfortable.

Hospitals usually hand out Lanisoh, but I’m packing Earth Mama Angel Baby’s Natural Nipple Butter – made with olive oil and cocoa butter.

I’ve used disposable nursing pads in the past, but for this breastfeeding journey, I’m switching over to washable pads. It seems a little more green, and much more comfortable.

7. Pretty Pajamas

Add some pretty pajamas (tank top or button up tops are great for nursing mothers), slippers, and a robe. For me, this is going to be a challenge to find some modest pajamas that I won’t be sweaty, during the summer months.

8. Post Partum Care Products

Pregnancy, as well as labor and delivery can leave a momma feeling like she’s been hit by a semi truck, especially in the nether regions. I’ve got all my pampering products all ready to go:

Mama Bottom Balm – you can use this during the end of your pregnancy, as well as following labor and delivery. Paraben free – consists of olive oil base and herbs like witch hazel, calendula and more.

New Mama Bottom Spray – lavender, witch hazel and peppermint oils soothe tender skin – can also be used for sunburn relief!

Postpartum Bath Herbs – You can use these moistened and iced, as a cool compress, or in a warm sitz bath for added comfort.

I’ve also switched over to mama cloth – much more comfortable than disposable pads. I’m packing a wet bag in my suitcase to bring these home.

9. water bottle

You’ll need to stay hydrated while breastfeeding, help keep things moving in your digestive system, and replenish fluids lost while in labor. You don’t see me without my Kleen Kanteen close at hand. You can pick it up in a million different colors — we have plain stainless steel for Brett, and a baby pink for me.

Another thing I’ll be taking? Coconut water – great source of electrolytes, and a bit of a break from plain water.

For Number 10 – be sure and leave a comment with YOUR favorite addition to the hospital bag! I’d love to hear from you!

This post will be linked up to: Domestically Divine Tuesdays, Top Ten Tuesdays, Works for Me Wednesdays, The Mommy Club, Tip Me Tuesdays and more!

This post contains affiliate links – thanks for your support!

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April Wrap Up – Makes My Monday

2012-05-08T12:27:00Z

Were you busy during April? Wondering what posts you might have missed here? Here’s a rundown of my top ten most visited posts for the month of April, 2012.

1. Birthday Party Ideas for Little Boys
2. Beautiful Baby Shower Ideas
3. Tips for Running a Half Marathon

Be sure and follow my Adventures in Fitness board on Pinterest for more fitness resources!

4. Birthday Party Ideas for Girls
5. Half Marathons I Want to Run
6. St Patrick’s Day

More faith resources can be found over on my Adventures in Faith board.

7. Things You Should NEVER Say to a Pregnant Woman
8. Songs to Add to Your Running Playlist
9. Palm Sunday
10. Keep Yourself Safe While Running

Many thanks to those folks who sent traffic my way! I really appreciate it – head over and visit these fine folks.

Head over to Cheryl’s today for more Makes My Monday fun!

Choosing Joy – Saints and Scripture Sunday

2012-05-06T06:52:08Z

John 15:11

These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full.

Brett, Rachel and I recently took a field trip to Virginia/Washington, D.C. Before we left, I told Brett I was only concerned about seeing ONE thing in the area. I wanted to go to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. I know that there are so many things to see and do in DC, but this was on my heart. I couldn’t be 30 minutes away and not visit.

On the way from Sterling, Virgina, into the heart of DC, I quickly decided that I never want to live in a huge city. Crazy traffic makes my skin crawl, and DC was no exception. I almost told Brett to scrap the whole idea – thankfully, I held my tongue.

As we approached the Basilica, I realized that we were likely to be in time for Mass. That was an added plus for me, since I wasn’t able to drag myself out of bed early that morning.

Since the Basilica is near the campus of Catholic University, parking was a bit hairy, and a patience trial for me. Once we parked, I rushed Brett and Rachel toward the doors.

Pictures that we took don’t do this incredible church any sort of justice. There are so many things to see – I could have spent a half day here. I had to stop at the huge wooden doors, to see the scriptures and prayers carved there.

As we walked in, I was struck by the immense size of the cathedral, and was amazed by all the people there. As we made our way to our seats, I noticed a seminarian leading a tour group through the Basilica. He looked at me, and smiled — and I started to cry. As the mother of boys, priests (especially young ones) hold a special place in my heart. I appreciate their sacrifice and service to our Church. I can’t help but think about how proud I would be if one of my boys were called to that vocation.

We made our way to our seats and got settled in. Attending Mass in a different city is always such a treat for me – surrounded by different people, in an unfamiliar place, yet the Order of the Mass is always the same. Listening to the Monsignor talk about Christ, in his role as the Good Shepard, and watching people walk quietly through the church, I started to cry again.

My poor husband has finally gotten used to me crying during Mass, and no longer wonders if something’s wrong. I cry for a million different reasons — the readings touch me, or the music. Sometimes, I’m particularly stressed, and something in the homily stirs me. I’ve been known to cry because I miss my oldest daughter, or because I’m so incredibly blessed, much more than I deserve.

After Mass was over, we set out to explore the church and all the shrines on the Upper Level. I headed to the Miraculous Medal chapel first, since it’s one of my favorite Marian stories.

photo credit

Continuing on, we found an amazing Our Lady of Guadalupe chapel – the walls here are mosaic tile, depicting pilgrims on their way to visit Mary. There are priests, nuns, and even an Aztec Indian carrying candles and kneeling. For Rachel, it was an art lesson and faith lesson, all rolled into one.

I wanted to continue walking through the upper level, taking my own sweet time to peruse all of the beautiful artwork, chapels, people watch, and more. My spirited child had other ideas. She skipped through the Basilica, uttered the evil words, “I’m BORED!”, and just about made me blow my stack. Brett took her off to the bathroom, to let me have some time to myself.

I stood in the chapel of Our Mother of Sorrows, taking in Mary’s pain as a mother, when Rachel came skipping back.

“MOMMA! I found the most beautiful thing ever! You have to see.”

Sighing, I followed her slowly down the stairs.

She and Brett had come across the Mary, Queen of Ireland chapel.

It was a simple chapel, but stunningly beautiful. St Patrick’s breastplate prayer covered one wall, along with a map of the Emerald Isle. A Celtic cross covers the door behind Mary. The window to the left depicts pilgrams traveling to revered shrines in Ireland.

Rachel says, “Look, Mom! Mary is laughing! Baby Jesus must have been doing something silly!”

photo credit

Indeed she was. Our Lady is usually serene, or even sad in art work, but this statue of a mother’s love made me cry.It reminded me that I need to look for the joy in being a mother, instead of getting so darn wrapped up in things that simply don’t matter.

I took many things away from the 2:1 conference, but by far, embracing the joy in my life is the most important.

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Catholic Family Fun Book Review and Book Tour

2012-04-30T11:56:09Z

A spirit of service to others is an integral part of our Catholic lives. As a busy mother of a large family, I often struggle with the call to do MORE for others, when I’m barely keeping my head above water at home.

The solution? Involve my family, and create a Catholic culture of service at home.

Sarah Reinhard’s new book, Catholic Family Fun is chock full of ideas to help mesh your faith with your family life, all while making it FUN! She divides her ideas into areas such as prayer, ways to serve, outdoor adventures, meals, and just silly things to do together. Each section is marked with the Faith Angle — ideas for getting you and your children to think about how their faith can be present in all aspects of their lives, as well as Make it Your Own – ways to personalize the ideas for your family.

As a pregnant momma, seeing a pregnancy center mentioned in the Ways to Serve section warmed my heart. This is a low cost way to serve those in need, stress the sacredness of life to your children, and help them identify ways they can help, from prayer, diaper drives and more.

For my non Catholic readers — this book has resources for EVERY family seeking to deepen family bonds, create lasting memories, and enrich your lives – body, soul and spirit.

Want to see what other folks had to say about Catholic Family Fun? Be sure and stop by the Book Tour – some of my favorite Catholic bloggers, like Lisa from The Practicing Catholic are there. The Catholic Family Fun website will be updated monthly with new activities and resources. Be sure and follow Catholic Family Fun on Facebook to hear all the latest news.

Want more of Sarah’s writing? I have her booklets Welcome Risen Jesus – a preparation for Lent and Easter with children, as well as Welcome Baby Jesus, to help families prepare for Advent and Christmas. I’m anxiously awaiting her book A Catholic Mother’s Guide to Pregnancy, scheduled for release this fall.

Disclaimer: I received this book from the author for free – all opinions expressed here are my own. Many thanks to Sarah and Pauline Books and Media for letting me be a part of getting the word out.

Saints and Scripture Sunday: St Catherine of Bologna

2012-04-29T04:10:25Z

1 Timothy 4:14
Do not neglect the gift you have …

This weekend, I’m connecting with other Christian homeschool bloggers at the 2:1 Conference. Common themes among all the speakers this weekend have included using your writing to glorify God, shunning comparisons to others, and seeking God’s will for your life.

Imagine my surprise when I opened A Book of Catholic Saints for Mothers, and saw this heading under St Catherine of Bologna:

Using our creative gifts to glorify God

I had to laugh, since God has to speak loud and clear to get me to listen.

Portrait of Mary and Jesus by St Catherine of Bolgna

St Catherine of Bologna(1413-1463) worked in the French court before entering the convent of the Poor Clares. She was a talented artist, musician, dancer, singer, and writer, penning The Seven Spiritual Weapons. Blessed with a multitude of talent, she remained humble, striving to serve others in God’s will. Considered to be the patron saint of artists, we celebrate her feast day on March 9th.

Being around these women has inspired me, yet reminded me of my focus in life. This weekend will challenge me to work on my spiritual life, refocus my priorities back to my husband and family, and continue to strive to use my creative talent (writing) as God intended.

How are you using your gifts?

Update Your Rooms Easily with Renu!

2012-04-23T04:10:14Z

This post brought to you by Leviton. All opinions are 100% mine.

I’ll admit – I’m not a decorator, and I’m not a DIY diva. My house will turn 10 this year. The only thing I’ve changed is a few lightbulbs and the paint color in Rachel’s room. Poor old house is in desperate need of a makeover.

I’d love to start a update in the children’s bathoom – it’s directly off the foyer, and it serves as the bathoom for guests as well. Right now, it’s just a blah beige. The outlet covers are very plain Jane. With a fresh coat of paint, and bright new covers, it would have a whole new look.

Renu by Leviton makes it a piece of cake to update your rooms. Their dimmers,switches and wall plates are available in 20 fun colors like Pink Lemonade and Granny Smith Apple Green – perfect for any decor. If you get tired of a color, it’s easy to switch out.

Looking to learn more? Ready to update your look? You can check out Leviton on Facebook, and even participate in Twitter parties.

Follow Leviton and #renu for the Twitter Parties. Dates left are: Thursday, April 26th, at 9pm EST and again Wednesday May 2nd, at 9pm EST. You could win Home Depot gift cards to help start your projects!

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Saints and Scripture Sunday: St Gianna Beretta Molla

2012-04-22T06:08:26Z

Psalm 139:13-14
You formed me my inmost being;
you knit me in my mother’s womb. I praise you, so wonderfully you made me, wonderful are your works!

Being pregnant with Baby 5.0, the story of St Gianna is one that I hold very dear. Gianna was the tenth of thirteen children, and as a working mother, practiced pediatrics in her Italian clinic.

When she was pregnant with her fourth child, it was discovered that she had a uterine fibroma. Her doctor advised her to have an abortion, which Gianna adamantly refused. She went on to carry her daughter to full term, instructing her physicians to save the life of her unborn child. A few days after her daughter Gianna Emanuela Molla was born, St Gianna died at age 39, leaving behind an amazing legacy for all mothers.

Her daughter Gianna followed in her footsteps and became a physician. Her husband and her three surviving children were able to be present during her canonization. She is the inspiration behind St Gianna’s Physician’s Guild, an organization of Catholic physicians and health care professionals dedicated to upholding Catholic principles.

Contemplating her life reminds me to cherish my own pregnancies, my children, my husband, as well as my vocation as a mother and professional. She is a spiritual go to girl for pregnant mothers such as myself, as well as those dealing with the cross of infertility.

“Be living witnesses of the greatness and beauty
of Christianity.” – Gianna Beretta Molla (1922-1962)

10 Things Newbies Should Know About Me: 2 to 1 Conference

2012-04-19T03:05:01Z

To you folks visiting from the 2 to 1 link up, welcome!

This is me, and some of the folks that I love, along with 10 things you should know about me.

1. I’m cooking Baby 5.0, and I feel like I’m huge. 7 more weeks to go. No, it’s not twins — I have an amazing set of those guys already. And, no, I can’t answer for a fact that we are ‘done’. It’s up to me to follow God’s plan for my life.

2. I’m still new to homeschooling, and still halfway scared out of my wits.

3. I’m an Emergency Room nurse – plenty of stories to tell.

4. Like Stephanie at Bowmania, I’m pretty short. 5 foot short. Add the ginormous belly, and I’m looking like an Oompa Loompa these days.

5. I love to write – it’s my creative outlet. You’ll find me here, over at The Homeschool Classroom and at Catholic Mothers Online. My friend Angie will tell you that I dumped her over at Louisville Lady Bloggers, too.

6. I try to be a green mama — minimal plastic, planning on cloth diapers, and trying to eat clean as much as we can.

7. I’m considering this trip to the DC area my vacation for the year. Unless I can talk my husband into a 13 hour drive to Dallas for the Catholic New Media Celebration in August.

8. Ever heard of the Kentucky Wildcats? Yes, the 2012 National Champions? I’m a diehard Big Blue fan, and have already trained my children to cheer for UK.

9. I’m a runner. You’d never guess it by my short legs, but I ran a half marathon this time last year. I’m hoping and praying to run another one this fall. Oh, and I was 37 when I decided to start running. Better late than never.

10. I’m a blog conference/homeschooling conference addict. 2 to 1 will be my first conference of this year, followed by the Kentucky Catholic Homeschooling Conference, followed by the Memoria Press Conference.

Are you heading to the 2 to 1 Conference? Be sure and look me up when you’re there, and introduce yourself in the comment box!

You can head over to Stephanie’s to meet more attendees.