carmelitemom

What I love about Winter

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0000

I guess I would be considered the minority...those who revel in the fall and winter months in peace and contentment. Was is it about winter that soothes my soul? Maybe the melancholy of winter matches my own soul. Maybe the utter stillness and silence draws me. Maybe the fresh crisp air that fills my lungs wakes me and makes me feel more alive!

There are oh...so many reasons...

...it is pure pleasure to wrap hands around a hot mug of coffee or hot chocolate...

...I get to wear my favorite pair of slip ons and thick socks...

...snow gives a wonderful excuse to bake something tasty that warms up the kitchen...

...candles seem to glow brighter and add a beautiful light to evening...

...and who can resist the warmth, smell and crackle of a fire...

...the way the bare branches stretch endlessly into the gray skies in utter beauty

...there seems to be more moments to grasp time for prayer...for rocking and praying in the early morning and late evening hours...

...the way the world seems motionless in the snow...

...the feel of a warm colorful scarf wrapped around my neck...

Do you feel a little warmer?

Where do I put all my...mail, papers, magazines?

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0000

Just a little continuation on one of my favorite things...organization...

I would say this is my biggest question....where do all put all my paperwork. The solution is really quite simple...

I tackle the mail the minute it is dropped in the door.

It only takes 5 minutes...rarely more. I immediately separate into piles of junk mail, bills, and *to be read*. The junk mail goes right into the recycle bin, the bills get opened and placed in their file folder, and the *to be read* pile goes into a basket by our rocking chair for later reading.

As far as organizing all the important stuff...I am blessed to have a little nook of shelves built into the breakfast bar. It is great for cookbooks, recipes binders and coupons, etc. The top shelf you can see a series of folders. Each child has their own school folder including the college ones (especially the college ones!). Since youngest is homeschooled, I keep her stuff with my homeschool binder. There is a folder for the dog's papers (vet records, adoption papers, etc.). In the front I keep three folders labeled: *pending*, *to be filed*, and *miscellaneous*. *Pending* includes letters I need to respond to, insurance applications or estimates for repairs that we are just waiting for the money to flow down from heaven to finish. *To be filed* contains any receipts or important papers that need to go in the large file container...eventually. *Miscellaneous* contains interesting articles I printed out, pics of house ideas (when that money comes in), craft ideas or visitor's guides. Any appointments to be made or schedules either for bus, train, school or church get tacked on a bulletin board in the mudroom.

I keep one or two transparent green mini files in the middle: one for the checkbook and bills, the other for paystubs and any account info the kids give me. As soon as I open a bill, it goes directly into the file folder and I usually put them in the order they are due. Really, most of my bills are online and done through online checks or automatic deductions, but there are still a few that come in the mail...and hey...how 'bout them church envelopes...they need a place too!

In our dining room closet, I keep two large Rubbermaid file containers. This closet used to be a sort of closet you would keep brooms, etc. in...not much use. My husband placed some shelves in there and it is a great hide-a-way closet! Top shelf is some Carmelite and homeschool resources and a few other small things. The rest of the shelves are used for our games and containers of markers and crayons. The bottom is where I store the file containers. I love these things...nice alternative to metal file cabinets. I have one for income tax and the other one for just about anything else. I also keep a basket on top with extra printer paper. I utilize every inch, trust me.

Just an FYI~tax records need only be saved for a minimum of three years but I keep all mine as long as I can fit them...about 10 yrs. worth.

I keep all receipts for expensive items such as major appliances permanently...or until it's replaced! I also keep receipts from repairs to house and cars.

Paystubs should be kept for one year until W-2 is received.

My folders include all insurances: homeowners, car, health, and life/retirement. Other folders include mortgage, CME credits for ultrasound, miscellaneous, paid loans, and HELOC. My two oldest sons have their own file folders for bank statements, college financial papers, etc.

I have a fireproof box in my bedroom closet...not too large. Big enough to keep social security cards, bonds, birth certificates, marriage certificate and deed to the house as well as anything else I would not want to disappear off the face of the earth if, God forbid, there was ever a fire.

I am thankful that many records can be kept online now and this cuts down drastically on deciding where you have put all the piles of papers...much appreciated here.

Wordless Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0000

Recollection

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 11:00:00 +0000

In his essay entitled "Recollection" Thomas Merton states that recollection is "...a change of spiritual focus and an attuning of our whole soul to what is beyond and above ourselves...it gathers up all the love of our soul, raises it above created and temporal things, and directs it all to God in Himself and in His will."

Genuine recollection produces the effects of peace, interior silence, and tranquillity of heart. This alone should motivate us to strive to remain recollected throughout our day...and night...

Read more at Suscipio...

Multitudes on Monday {gratitude journal}

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0000

So blessed to join in with Ann and the gratitude community~

Praising God in gratitude for...

...big bowl of bean soup on cold winter's night

...maple almond butter

...slow dance in living room

...youngest reciting poems as she jumps on trampoline

...cleaning fireplace (in anticipation of next one)

...youngest helping me swiff (two swiffers are better than one)

...hot shower in the morning

...oil that soothes winter skin

...setting sun glowing behind pines

...bare vines twisting up arbor

...mug of coffee after 1 am call-in to work

...day of no phone calls

...empty wash baskets

...window seat

...warmth of sunroom

...tracing journeys on maps

...writing a letter to our sponsored child

...making our bed every morning

...sunbeams at dusk

Please join us for a book study!

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 14:09:00 +0000

Exciting news! Our first book study has just been announced and we would love for you to join us if you can...and spread the word.

Come and see...Suscipio!

What Would Jesus Eat?

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0000

I mentioned I was reading a book on health and nutrition called What Would Jesus Eat? by Don Colbert MD. With a title like that and only a penny for a used copy, how could I resist? My husband and I have been talking about healthier eating and changing some of our bad habits.

I was pleasantly surprised.

I would compare the suggestions in this book to something along the lines of the Mediterranean Diet although this book is really about a healthier lifestyle, not a diet, per se.

I appreciated the scripture quotes scattered throughout despite the fact I did not agree with some of the literal interpretations he includes. I also found the statistics and comparisons with other nation's diets very interesting.

My husband, who previously lived on pop-tarts and Tastykakes for breakfast has embraced it full heartedly...I am impressed. The key...make sure the kitchen is stocked with healthy snacks and recipes planned. We are fortunate to have a Trader Joe's nearby which is loaded with organic and healthy products at an affordable price. We look forward to our weekly visits there.

Any difference? Well, even though he didn't need to, husband lost over 7 lbs. He has more energy and feels more alert, less sluggish. Myself...well...didn't lose any weight but my main goal was really to feel better especially during the peri-menopausal years. I have been also supplementing with extra magnesium and flaxseed oil and find that my nervous tension has decreased markedly and my blood sugar spikes have disappeared and overall....I just feel better. It 's a great feeling to know nothing unhealthy or processed is entering my body.

So, when I reach in the pantry or fridge, I can now ask..."What Would Jesus Eat?" What better example and model do we have for the care and nutrition of our bodies...these temples of the Holy Spirit.

What I love to do {when I am not doing everything else}

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0000

Organize.

Yep...it's what I love to do when I am not preoccupied with a hundred other things. I love order and when *there is a place for everything and everything in its place*, there is order within too. I take great pleasure in keeping my house neat and making a comfortable *home* for my family...in this, I fulfill the will of God as a wife and mother.

Even though I live on the outskirts of a major city, I am blessed with a home that is not too large...not too small and has lots of storage.

When people visit, I am often asked, "Where do you put everything?", "Where are your bills...your mail?", "Why don't you have any clutter?".

Honestly, I do have clutter at times but for the most part, everything does have its place. It does make a difference that I am only homeschooling one child as opposed to six or seven children. God bless those that do...I am continually edified by your examples.

Since I love to organize, why not share some little tidbits that work for me? The new year is a great time to start. Every home is unique, but you may find you can create a twist of sorts on what I am already doing. So, a series of very humble posts over time that I hope will assist you in simplifying and organizing.

No need to delay...

Where do I keep everything in my...bathroom? Well, I have a pretty large linen closet that holds a lot. When we moved in, this closet was covered with a curtain. My husband cleverly used these doors from Ikea that are meant for storage units that they sell. He cleverly placed them on a track and made sliding doors! (Yes...he is an Ikea hacker!)

The top shelf is pretty high and used mainly for storing extra sheets and things I don't use that often. The second shelf is mainly for washcloths and towels (bath and beach).

The third shelf contains some common items such as alcohol, sunscreen, vitamins, and various first aid things. I also picked up these baskets at the dollar store so everyone has their own.

Last shelf I use mostly for tissues, soap, cups, trash bags and youngest daughter's basket of washcloths and hairbrush in addition to a couple of stainless steel baskets full of bath toys...easy for her to reach.

I also have this jar set to use for loose cotton balls, Qtips and razors. (note the Sharpie marker with the razors...with five people shaving, we need to keep them marked). I have no idea where I got the jar set...it is like a hundred years old and originally meant for the kitchen.

On the floor, I keep toilet paper stocked and have two small laundry baskets...one for darks and one for lights in addition to a pretty one from Ikea in our bedroom. The older children have their own hampers in their rooms since they do their own wash, but they try to sneak something in ours every so often.

Cleaning supplies I keep under the vanity sink. I try to use as much homemade products as I can but with so many people using one room, I need to resort to the stronger stuff sometimes. We also have a pretty large medicine cabinet for meds, toothbrushes, etc. Thankfully, space has never really been an issue in this bathroom shared by six. (We fortunately have a half bathroom in the basement for waiting lines)

I found some cleaning *recipes* online and from books that have worked for me and maybe you would like to try yourself. On the tub I need the stronger stuff, but I find the homemade products work well for the rest.

Glass cleaner: 2 tsp. vinegar mixed with 16 oz. water in a spray bottle. I add a little lemon essential oil for a nice scent.

All purpose cleaner (great for toilet, sink, and ceramic floor...just about anything): 1 part vinegar to 1 part water in a spray bottle. I like to add lavender oil to this one.

In place of shampoo: my husband, youngest and I have been using baking soda mixed with water...1 tbsp. to
1 cup of water. This may have to be adjusted depending on your hair type. Two great posts on using this and going *shampoo-less* here and here {Simple Mom}.

In place of facial cleanser and moisturizer: since I tend towards drier skin in the winter, I use 1 part castor oil to 1 part extra virgin olive oil. I adjust according to the season. I mix both in a nice ceramic pump bottle. Just a pump or two massaged in, then I hold a nice warm washcloth over my face (steam and oil help cleanse pores), then wipe. It removes make up wonderfully and your skin will feel soooo good. I use a little Vaseline on a Qtip for mascara or liner if need be. I then moisturize with a small amount of jojoba oil. My skin has never felt better. I actually wear less make up now...or not at all. Great post on this here. {Simple Mom}

I look forward to sharing more...and would love to hear your ideas.

Multitudes on Monday {gratitude journal}

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0000

Joining in with Ann and the gratitude community~

Giving thanks for...

...the sound of the word *Epiphany*

...slowly putting away decorations

...selling used books

...Father blessing crosses

...dog warming my lap

...arts and crafts all over the house

...neighbor carrying trash cans back

...arthritis easing up

...her expressions as she talks to grandmom on the phone

...silver hearts adorning her shirt

...traveling upstate to visit family

...patience and grace to help mother-in-law during dinner

...flaming winter sunset

...white noise that helps me fall asleep

...oldest daughter's patience during visit

...oldest son emptying dishwasher without being asked

...architecture that leaves one in awe

...beautiful Nativities from around the world

...stopping at Starbucks on the way home

...beautiful words given to me in comments and email...bless you all

...husband helping with blog

...how all my worries and concerns melt away when he holds me

Suscipio

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0000

Are you looking for fellowship with other Catholic women? Would you like to share reflections on scripture, read a book together, write a post, or just join in kind conversation?

Oh...please join us over at Suscipio...or at least come check it out. An inspired blog from Jenny at A Minute Captured. to raise up, support, maintain...the authentic Catholic woman.

Daybook {January}

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 18:33:00 +0000

I know, I know...everyone does these on Mondays...I do them when inspired {teehee}~

Outside my window...
...gray skies...it is bitter cold with winds...yard is a muddy mess and I am glad that an errand was cancelled so we can stay inside

I am thankful...

...that we had time to catch up on school this week...for getting a few nights of sleep...for not getting called in the middle of the night...for eating healthier

From the learning room...
...starting on Ancient Greece which daughter is just tickled pink about (we get to read Greek myths!)...working on our History timeline in a new book we got (pics on homeschooling page)...progressing wonderfully with cursive writing to my surprise

In the kitchen...
...stocking up on healthy snacks...less processed food...less meat...more beans and nuts and fruits...bean and rice casserole tonight to warm us at dinner...decorating some nice jars to keep everything in

I am wearing...
...jeans, turtleneck, fleece vest, my favorite suede slip ons and I managed a little make-up today

I am creating...
...cute labels for all the jars in my pantry

I just used leftover scrapbook paper from my daughter and cut strips with a paper cutter to fit jars or cover previous labels. I used Tacky Glue to adhere them. I printed the labels out on self stick address labels. Now to decide if I will use clear contact to keep labels dry and clean...still pondering that one.

I am going...
...hopefully nowhere on a day like today

I am pondering/meditating...
...why I have been feeling so agitated lately and having difficulty focusing on prayer...how I am always in awe of God's great mercy and how He keeps forgiving me every time I fall...and get up again

I am reading...
...Prince Caspian with youngest daughter, continuing with Foundations for Carmelite formation, When Children Love to Learn by Elaine Cooper

I am thinking...
...about a young member of our Carmelite community that passed away suddenly...how much I need to do before our monthly meeting Sunday...about trying to find a good plumber to fix a leak in the basement

I am listening to...
...youngest singing Christmas Carols as she plays in her tent and builds with her Zoobs

I am looking forward to...
...oldest sons getting back into college groove...a fire and a glass of red wine tonight

Around the house...
...finally getting the last of the ordinary decorations back up with a good dusting prior

I am hoping and praying...
...for the family who lost a daughter and sister and Carmelite...too soon...for purity in my children...for a better job for my husband

One of my favorite things...
...posting new pics on my blog

A few plans for the rest of the week...
...work on Saturday...Carmelite meeting on Sunday...and a clean slate for next week

A pic for thought...

Wordless Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 10:30:00 +0000

Return to the Ordinary

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 10:30:00 +0000

Yes...it is nice to celebrate Christmas. I love the decorations, the gatherings, the prayers, the giving, the music...everything.

And yes...after all that...it is nice to return to the ordinary...

...the routine...the ebb and flow of prayer, school, chores, meals

It is nice to return to the Ordinary...

...the prayers of Ordinary Time in the LOH

...the green of vestments and prayer table coverings
...the Eucharistic Celebration of Ordinary Time

It is nice to return to the ordinary...

...the very sacred in the very ordinary

Sure...it's easy to see the sacred during Christmas and Easter...but how about the ordinary?

The sacred in...

...making a pot of coffee on a winter morning

...walking the dogs on a crisp day

...reading a good historical book to youngest daughter

...dusting the furniture

...wiping down the counter tops and stove

...scrubbing the tub while reciting the Jesus Prayer

...cooking a dinner slowly and with care

...driving an older child somewhere patiently and carefully
...typing an email to stay in touch

Let us remember that most of us are not called to extraordinary acts but to simple, everyday, even monotonous, ordinary tasks. These we are called to do with love, with reverence...for it is through these that we meet God...in the sacred ordinary...that we become saints.

Recognition...and gratitude

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 15:02:00 +0000

With gratitude, I thank Joyce from The Little Way who graciously awarded me a Liebster Award...an award specifically dedicated to bring notice to up and coming bloggers. Liebster is a German word meaning dearest, beloved or favorite.

Like Joyce, I have limited my choice to five blogs with less than 200 followers. It is an award of recognition and thanks for the inspiration these little, yet loved blogs share with others. They are no doubt up and coming in the blogosphere.

Ironically, Joyce and I live in the same city and it was quite a blessing to have *found* her while searching through Carmelite blogs. Her witty humor, love of the TLM and humility always leave me smiling...and thinking. Thank you Joyce...I, in turn, give the award back to you.

We seem to share the same network of blogs so I will do my best not to repeat...but know all of the ones she mentioned are appreciated by me as well.

I would like to acknowledge:

Jenny at A Minute Captured who continues to inspire through her beautiful photos and glimpses into a busy family life and its struggles.

Daria at Coffee and Canticles: The Divine Office In Your Life who shares the ins and outs of faithfully praying the Liturgy of the Hours everyday with her sense of humor.

Anne at Imprisoned In My Bones whose poetic writings reflect her love of her Catholic Faith. I have been following Anne since the beginning of her blog and she has been a source of encouragement through her blog and off her blog.

Laura at Homeschooling With Joy who has been faithfully following me from the start. She shares life in a large homeschooling family along with great ideas abundantly shared. She is a very kind soul.

Multitudes on Monday {gratitude journal}

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 10:30:00 +0000

Joining in with Ann and the gratitude community~

Continuing to list the gifts and thank God for...

...youngest in denim and plaid

...braiding her hair

...picking bouquets of clover

...watching movie with husband uninterrupted

...making it 'til midnight

...relaxing family dinner at sister's

...that first bite of almond cake with chocolate ganache filling and coffee buttercream icing (need. that. recipe.)

...exchanging gifts on New Year's Day

...co-worker covering call because I was sick

...good finds at used book sale

...husband folding wash

...tree still lit

...tree lights reflecting on window...sparkling at night

...sharing a coloring book

...meeting a homeschooler at the store

...sleep to help me heal from cold

...getting back into routine of school

Saint of the Year

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 20:13:00 +0000

Allison over at Totus Tuus Family and Catholic Homeschool is graciously hosting her *Saint of the Year*. If you leave a comment, she will pick a saint out of a basket...a saint to learn about...a saint to watch over your family and intercede for you in a special way...a saint to guide you in the upcoming year.

Our saint for 2012 is:

St. Martin de Porres

From AmericanCatholic.org:

He was the illegitimate son of a freed woman of Panama (born in 1579), probably black but also possibly of Native American stock, and a Spanish grandee of Lima, Peru. Martin inherited the features and dark complexion of his mother. That irked his father, who finally acknowledged his son after eight years. After the birth of a sister, the father abandoned the family. Martin was reared in poverty, locked into a low level of Lima’s society.

When he was 12, his mother apprenticed him to a barber-surgeon. He learned how to cut hair and also how to draw blood (a standard medical treatment then), care for wounds and prepare and administer medicines.

After a few years in this medical apostolate, Martin applied to the Dominicans to be a "lay helper," not feeling himself worthy to be a religious brother. After nine years, the example of his prayer and penance, charity and humility led the community to request him to make full religious profession. Many of his nights were spent in prayer and penitential practices; his days were filled with nursing the sick and caring for the poor. It was particularly impressive that he treated all people regardless of their color, race or status. He was instrumental in founding an orphanage, took care of slaves brought from Africa and managed the daily alms of the priory with practicality as well as generosity. He became the procurator for both priory and city, whether it was a matter of "blankets, shirts, candles, candy, miracles or prayers!" When his priory was in debt, he said, "I am only a poor mulatto. Sell me. I am the property of the order. Sell me."

Side by side with his daily work in the kitchen, laundry and infirmary, Martin’s life reflected God’s extraordinary gifts: ecstasies that lifted him into the air, light filling the room where he prayed, bilocation, miraculous knowledge, instantaneous cures and a remarkable rapport with animals. His charity extended to beasts of the field and even to the vermin of the kitchen. He would excuse the raids of mice and rats on the grounds that they were underfed; he kept stray cats and dogs at his sister’s house.

He became a formidable fundraiser, obtaining thousands of dollars for dowries for poor girls so that they could marry or enter a convent.

Many of his fellow religious took him as their spiritual director, but he continued to call himself a "poor slave." He was a good friend of another Dominican saint of Peru, Rose of Lima (August 23).

The winner is....

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:55:00 +0000

I must say that in giving away this humble gift, I have received hundredfold back. Your comments and your gratitude have really touched me...thank you. I wish I had enough for the bunch of you!

The winner is....

...from A Minute Captured

Email me you address at carmelitemom@verizon.net...and I will get this out to you my next trip to the post office.

Congratulations!!

One Thousand Gifts and a Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

...a New Year to be filled with gratitude and thanksgiving~EUCHARISTEO!

{1000}

Well there is something to celebrate along with a New Year...the 1000th Gift! With the help of God, my goal has been reached. Will I now stop counting the gifts? Well...I may stop numbering but the list will continue...hopefully for the rest of my life. I have been keeping a written journal and I transfer my lists to my blog weekly. I pray I will have stacks of journals at the end of my life.

To celebrate, I am offering a small giveaway: two mini notebooks to start your own gratitude lists, a scapular hand made from our Carmelite Sisters' habits (this is my favorite...it is a little longer and the squares a little larger than the standard), and a gem of a little book Little Cathechism of the Life of Prayer by Fr. Gabriel of St. Mary Magdalen, OCD...one of my most favorite Carmelite authors.

All I ask is that you leave a comment stating one thing you were most grateful for in 2011. Comments will be open until 10 am Tuesday (January 3). My youngest will then choose a name from a basket on Tuesday morning at noon and it will be posted later in the day.

Wishing you all a New Year full of gratitude! I am grateful for all of you!

Gratitude countdown {gratitude journal}

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 17:38:00 +0000

Continuing to thank God for...

...playing Christmas music AFTER Christmas {949}

...dawn sky before sun rises {950}

...courage to share thoughts {951}

...Celtic music {952}

...much needed haircut {953}

...bare branches...still and silent against sky {954}

...soothing hand lotion on dry hands {955}

...long walk in park {956}

...reflections on river {957}

...phone conversation with someone unexpected {958}

...shopping at Trader Joe's (that was fun!) {959}

...hanging new calendar {960}

...visits from older children's *significant others* {961}

...youngest delighting in the simple gifts she received {962}

...getting rid of ancient, space hogging desktop {963}

...and making more space in dining room! {964}

...candles illuminating Nativity and three Kings making their journey {965}

...meeting new dogs on our walk [966}

...youngest climbing rocks {967}

...Mary's mantle protecting my children {968}

...Guardian Angels guiding {969}

...Morning Prayer before day begins {970}

...safe travels {971}
\
...watching Christmas movies {972}

...days without makeup {973}

...discovering dark chocolate almond milk {974}

...filling pantry with healthy snacks {975}

...snowflake sweater on littlest dog {976}

...ordering new storage jars and making homemade labels {977}

...looking for new recipes {978}

...warm winter socks {979}

...colorful scarves {980}

...refilling cookie dish {981}

...twisting cork off wine bottle {982}

...wood piled high for winter {983}

...a break from housecleaning {984}

...less traffic than expected {985}

...the living Word come down from Heaven {986}

...example of the Holy Family {987}

...Good King Wencelaus on piano {988}

...counting bird's nests in bare trees {989}

...discovering what mod podge is...and finding a way to use it {990}

...Google {991}

...building wooden castles {992}

...youngest asking to learn to knit...yikes! {993}

...oldest son...who fights the same temptations to anger and impatience as his mother...who makes me smile with his wry humor and feeble attempts to ask if I need help with anything (especially setting up the Christmas gifts) {994}

...second oldest son...who works hard at school and made the Dean's List his first semester...who is goofy and jokes with youngest daughter...who is organized and a perfectionist like his mother {995}

...oldest daughter...who gives me gray hairs~just because she is my daughter...who is creative and sensitive like her mother...who makes me smile with her unique giggle...who cares about pleasing me {996}

...youngest daughter...whose infancy was a blur due to her sensitive nature...who is creative, bright, affectionate and completely joyful and innocent ...who helps me to live in the present moment...who has brought me the blessing of homeschooling {997}

...my husband of eight plus years...who works to support his family...who does his best to be a good role model to his stepchildren...who is creative, a wonderful cook, and loves me despite my moodiness {998}

...all the creatures of God that bless our home...two dogs, two turtles and a snake...who make life a bit more interesting and teach us to care for ALL of God's creation {999}

No...I didn't forget 1000...stay tuned...

Gratitude countdown {gratitude journal}

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 13:45:00 +0000

...pajama day {933}

...four nights of good sleep (unheard of!) {934}

...crescent moon in clear winter sky {935}

...turning on tree lights early in the morning {936}

...celebrating the Octave {937}

...lighting white candle at dinner during this Season {938}

...unexpected time in Eucharistic Adoration {939}

...reading extra long to sick daughter at bedtime {940}

...snowflake flannel sheets {941}

...planning menu of healthy dinners {942}

...organizing lesson plans for next week {943}

...supplements helping with nervous tension {944}

...mighty winds that stir house {945}

...falling, yet getting up again with God's grace despite how we sinned {946}

...turtleneck sweaters and warm flannel vests {947}

...festive charms on wine glasses {948}

Gift of love {extending our family}

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 10:00:00 +0000

My husband and I don't always exchange Christmas gifts...depends on finances. But we have been giving sponsorship some thought this past year. Back and forth...wondering...researching...praying...and finally the last nudge to my husband after finding a Catholic agency that allows you to sponsor a child in need. We logged onto the Christian Foundation for Children and Aging. I asked youngest daughter if she would like a sister or brother in another part of the world...she said a sister. I then asked if she would like an older sister or one around her age...she said almost my age. We excitedly browsed through profiles and bios and found 6 year old "R" from the Domincan Republic. Her favorite activity is drawing...as my youngest's is. Her birthday falls on St. John of the Cross' Feast Day. My daughter was beaming...as was I. It was a gift more precious than any beautifully wrapped package my husband and I could have exchanged.

After we received our packet, we placed her pic in a special frame. I keep one in my calendar book and pray for her daily. I can't help but break into a smile when I look at her...tiny features just like my youngest. A joyful smile...just like my youngest. I sometimes think what they would be like together, heads bent together, sketching away and giggling. My heart is filled...

...we always wanted more children...and God never fails to answer our prayers...although they are not always answered the way we expected.

Gratitude countdown {gratitude journal}

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 16:35:00 +0000

...stress free grocery shopping {909}

...making room for more at dinner {910}

...watching *Elf* with girls {911}

...quiet moments on Christmas Eve to jot down thanks {912}

...grandmother's silverware handed down {913}

...basket of cookies made up for neighbor {914}

...sunbeams on Morning Prayer {915}

...taking a couple of moments to gaze at stars on Christmas Eve...remembering that one special star {916}

...peaceful Christmas Eve Mass {917}

...husband cooking delicious turkey {918}

...generosity and gratitude {919}

...oldest children helping with preparations {920}

...pouring glasses of wine {921}

...time for prayer Christmas Day {922}

...oldest son taking ride with stepdad to help run dogs {923}

...new candle scents {924}

...homemade bread pudding {925}

...dogs vying for sunbeams on floor {926}

...staying up late to clean everything up {927}

...sleeping in the day after {928}

...youngest joyfully bouncing on mini-trampoline {929}

...new games to play {930}

...Santa made of Legos {931}

...my head hitting pillow Christmas night {932}

Gratitude countdown {gratitude journal}

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 21:49:00 +0000

...texts from husband telling me why he loves me {878}

...Advent hymns sung longingly {879}

...baking favorite chocolate chips {880}

...warmth of oven on cold day {881}

...bundling up to walk dogs {882}

...thermal shirts {883}

...heat and warm blankets at night {884}

...new slippers {885}

...instrumental Christmas music {886}

...planning Christmas dinner {887}

...silence of house (older children not home, husband working, daughter playing quietly, dogs sleeping) {888}

...trying almond milk and loving it {889}

...nice winter day after 65 degree weather {890}

...gingerbread coffee {891}

...teaching son how to wrap gifts {892}

...finding a church with confession available before Christmas {893}

...colorful nutcrackers {894}

...slow day at work {895}

...whole wheat cookies that actually taste good {896}

..."Merry Christmas" from strangers {897}

...steaming bowls of cream of broccoli soup {898}

...unexpected act of generosity {899}

...a manger filled with love {900}

...hanging candy canes on tree {901}

...chocolate chip smears around lips {902}

...too many cookies to choose from {903}

...Christmas bonus {904}

...warm glass of red wine {905}

...cold enough to make a fire {906}

...youngest swiffing everyday for me {907}

...used computer donated {908}

To be continued...

Merry Christmas {in pics}

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 14:30:00 +0000

Most blessed and peace filled Christmas Season to all of you...

I look forward to sharing with you a WEEK of gratitude...a week that will lead to 1000 gifts.

In the meantime...just a glimpse as we begin our celebration of this joyous season...

Daybook {December}

noreply@blogger.com (carmelitemom) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:00:00 +0000

Outside my window...
...gray skies...looks like there will be quite a lot of rain this week with possible rain/snow on Christmas...I like that the house is lit up with Christmas lights even though is it early in the morning...representing the Light who is to come

I am thankful...
...for the hot mug of coffee that is in my hands right now...for quiet prayer...that I got most of the running around done last week so I can take time to rest in His Presence this week

From the learning room...
...this time of year is tough to keep a schedule...we are doing a lot of Advent/Christmas reading from the library and our own collection

In the kitchen...
...just finished a batch of my favorite oatmeal chocolate chip cookies and now am looking to make something with whole wheat for a change...taking out turkey to thaw in fridge and making list for grocery store

I am wearing...
...scrubs and a thermal...got killed on-call last night but it least it wasn't the middle of the night although I still feel effects

I am creating...
...rag tie fleece blankets for nieces and nephews and my brother's two bulldogs...just finished them...it was a bit of work, but we had fun tying them up

I am going...
...God willing, to Mass at noon and hopefully the only errand this week will be to go grocery shopping for Christmas dinner

I am pondering/meditating...
...how hard it is to keep in Christ's Presence this week before...how they do not offer the Sacrament of Confession as frequently as they should especially right before a Feast Day such as Christmas

I am reading...
...all kinds of great books with youngest daughter (our favorite is The Christmas Doll by Elvira Woodruff so far), continuing with Foundations for Carmelite formation, What Would Jesus Eat? by Dan Colbert, MD and Till We Have Faces by C.S. Lewis

I am thinking...
...how much longer I will have to deal with insomnia and will this be my cross for the rest of my life...Lord give me strength to accept it joyfully for love of you

I am listening to...
...dishwasher humming, otherwise my mind is blank from being so tired

I am looking forward to...
...Christmas morning and dinner with my ALL my children

Around the house...
...heavy duty cleaning and pretty much just keeping up on things after I have thoroughly cleaned

I am hoping and praying...
...I don't get called in to work on Christmas Day...for healing that I may be a better wife and mother...for sleep tonight

One of my favorite things...
...walking in the cold of the morning

A few plans for the rest of the week...
...clean, prepare, bake...enjoy...(ugh..forgot I have to work Friday)

A pic for thought...

carmelitemom

What I love about Winter

Where do I put all my...mail, papers, magazines?

Wordless Wednesday

Recollection

Multitudes on Monday {gratitude journal}

Please join us for a book study!

What Would Jesus Eat?

What I love to do {when I am not doing everything else}

Multitudes on Monday {gratitude journal}

Suscipio

Daybook {January}

Wordless Wednesday

Return to the *Ordinary*

Recognition...and gratitude

Multitudes on Monday {gratitude journal}

Saint of the Year

The winner is....

One Thousand Gifts and a Giveaway!

Gratitude countdown {gratitude journal}

Gratitude countdown {gratitude journal}

Gift of love {extending our family}

Gratitude countdown {gratitude journal}

Gratitude countdown {gratitude journal}

Merry Christmas {in pics}

Daybook {December}

Return to the Ordinary