I am just spending a few moments here to say........I am VERY busy, till noon on June 4th.......though the SATs are on June 6th......and Matthew has his wisdom teeth removed on June 8th..........and a baby shower for Louise on June 11th........but those things will be easier without school and plays and piano. Oh, I imagine there will be a baseball tournament in the first two weeks of June. But that will be easy and fun after we get through everything else!
Until then.....we have..........
two graduations: Anne with her AA in English and Matthew from high school
graduation rehearsals
lots of play rehearsals for two plays
two tech weeks, one each for two plays
set building
set de-building
company for a few days, once or twice
numerous Tee-ball games
numerous baseball games
three childbirth classes to teach
three days to work
one day to work interviews of pregnant women
one or two plays to attend at the college
4 plays to attend for the other kids
LOTS of meals to give thought to...
foreign exchange student stuff to go through
a birthday
a birthday party
finals week at the college for the four older kids
work the concession stand for baseball
help the boys clean their room.....ugh!
meet with our educational facilitator twice
finish up Matthew's senior year
finish up Matthew's senior project
finish up Maddelyn's two little projects
math lessons with Patty
piano lessons
piano rehearsals
piano recitals x2
plant the garden
attend a ballet, or will that be TWO?
attend a recital
prepare chicken coop, in order to......
welcome 44 baby chicks
a run out of town for orthodontics
possibly host two Catholic brothers as they drive by
and lastly.........there are, of course, the every day things that need to be done, like homeschooling some of the kids some of the time, like meals and exercising and cleaning bathrooms..........etc!
So, I am putting blogging on the back burner on the imaginary stove in the garage. I will get to it as I can........like when Maddelyn is in her class...........or I am stuck at the school. We will see what time I can pull out of my hat. It often seems when I take a "break" from blogging......I often blog more that I thought I could, or would.
I am going to try to get a Daybook done over the course of a few days.......maybe load some pictures..........who knows. I have LOTS of posts going around in my head!
I beg God's blessing on these endeavors........and on your endeavors, too!
Have a nice day.......week.........month!
Love, chari
Monday, May 4, 2009
Saturday, April 25, 2009
How I Spent My Birthday........
Originally written the evening of April 25th......
So, Louise, my dear friend, whose love language is so obviously gifts..........she specializes in gifts that resemble acts of service.......called me this morning and told me to meet her at her house about 11:30-ish so I could follow her to our destination. She said for all of us to wear flip flops.....swim suits and to bring beach towels. With a high of only 61* expected.........she said 65*......I was a bit scared........but I obeyed.......and brought a sweatshirt, too!
So, we left the house........and on the way.........it was the start of........
........ a very good birding day! The kids said it was because it was my birthday.......and all of the birds came out for me, to celebrate.
First, we watched a Great Blue Heron soar and then land......but I did not get my camera out in time. Then, above you see the next bird. We think it was a kestral hawk. We saw it again......or another one later over the lake. On the way to the lake, we found the Snowy White Egret we discovered in the marsh the other day..........this is only the second time since we have lived here.....20 years.........that I have seen an egret in the area.
Not sure what bird this was.........I think it was the heron......Matthew took the picture.
So, we arrived at our hometown lake.........where we have not been since last September. Where it is often too cold to go to in April. It was a sunny day, and comfortable enough........but for that wind. The wind chill factor definitely brought our temp down. But, it was tolerable enough.....and Louise set out a delicious picnic............she remembers everything.......it is her way. There was pastrami, of course, and cheeses, other deli meat, two kinds of mustard, mayo, bakery bread, 4 or 5 kind of chips, a homemade pasta salad, sliced tomatoes, avocados, pickles, sodas, waters........and cookies, cupcakes & gummy bears!
While we ate, Miranda, Louise's daughter, almost 6 years old, and Malachy explored down by the water. We just shared conversation......and enjoyed having the entire beach to ourselves......it kind of felt like we were on a deserted island. :)
Garrett, Louise, Sarah, Malachy & Miss Miranda walked down to the lake.......to discover the driftwood treasures along the shore. Nice view, eh?
This is "our" lake.........the kids have grown up here........Malachy & Miranda have always known this lake......and will grow up here, too........and so will Miranda's little brother........who is due to join the family sometime at the end of July, early August.....hopefully before I need to take a road trip to San Francisco!
This was one of the uninvited guests at my birthday picnic........they were so well-behaved today! They never barged into our party. I am actually one of those people who enjoys gulls. We also saw cormorants flying over the lake several times..........and once, I think I saw a bald eagle......it sure looked like one..........but I am not sure they camp out near this area.
******
Anne said Sarah wrote my name on the cake.......and then asked Anne how it looked. Apparently she had written C-a-r-i on the cake........Anne said: Who is Cari? I guess Sarah takes after me.........I am infamous in my family for my gigantic birthday banner for Tony which read: Happy Bithday!
I saw Matthew standing, with this background, and had to have it memorialized. It was a beautiful day..........and Matthew loves this mountain........his mountain.
It was definitely a bit chilly when that wind came up.........even the boys, Matthew & Garrett took shelter in the beach towels.
Sarah loves......I mean really loves Louise. She thinks Louise is one of her most favorite people in the whole world. She is one of mine, too.
And, not sure if it was the last bird of the day.....but there was this lone sandpiper at the shore.......he was very busy. I just sat and watched him for a bit.
Oh, of course, we also saw Canadian Geese, Stellar Jays, swallows, Western Scrub Jays and pigeons. :)
So, Louise, my dear friend, whose love language is so obviously gifts..........she specializes in gifts that resemble acts of service.......called me this morning and told me to meet her at her house about 11:30-ish so I could follow her to our destination. She said for all of us to wear flip flops.....swim suits and to bring beach towels. With a high of only 61* expected.........she said 65*......I was a bit scared........but I obeyed.......and brought a sweatshirt, too!
So, we left the house........and on the way.........it was the start of........
........ a very good birding day! The kids said it was because it was my birthday.......and all of the birds came out for me, to celebrate.
First, we watched a Great Blue Heron soar and then land......but I did not get my camera out in time. Then, above you see the next bird. We think it was a kestral hawk. We saw it again......or another one later over the lake. On the way to the lake, we found the Snowy White Egret we discovered in the marsh the other day..........this is only the second time since we have lived here.....20 years.........that I have seen an egret in the area.
Not sure what bird this was.........I think it was the heron......Matthew took the picture.
So, we arrived at our hometown lake.........where we have not been since last September. Where it is often too cold to go to in April. It was a sunny day, and comfortable enough........but for that wind. The wind chill factor definitely brought our temp down. But, it was tolerable enough.....and Louise set out a delicious picnic............she remembers everything.......it is her way. There was pastrami, of course, and cheeses, other deli meat, two kinds of mustard, mayo, bakery bread, 4 or 5 kind of chips, a homemade pasta salad, sliced tomatoes, avocados, pickles, sodas, waters........and cookies, cupcakes & gummy bears!
While we ate, Miranda, Louise's daughter, almost 6 years old, and Malachy explored down by the water. We just shared conversation......and enjoyed having the entire beach to ourselves......it kind of felt like we were on a deserted island. :)
Garrett, Louise, Sarah, Malachy & Miss Miranda walked down to the lake.......to discover the driftwood treasures along the shore. Nice view, eh?
This is "our" lake.........the kids have grown up here........Malachy & Miranda have always known this lake......and will grow up here, too........and so will Miranda's little brother........who is due to join the family sometime at the end of July, early August.....hopefully before I need to take a road trip to San Francisco!
This was one of the uninvited guests at my birthday picnic........they were so well-behaved today! They never barged into our party. I am actually one of those people who enjoys gulls. We also saw cormorants flying over the lake several times..........and once, I think I saw a bald eagle......it sure looked like one..........but I am not sure they camp out near this area.
Maddelyn and Anne showed up a bit late......because Anne was not ready to leave when it was time to go and she needed her own car in order to get to her play on time. This was our picnic base. Sarah made the cake........it was chocolate cake with chocolate frosting.....my favorite!! The cake was oh-so good........so moist!! This is the best ever chocolate cake we have ever tried. It is our standard.........the one we always go back to.......and the one I have not left for a very long time. Mmmmmm.
******
Anne said Sarah wrote my name on the cake.......and then asked Anne how it looked. Apparently she had written C-a-r-i on the cake........Anne said: Who is Cari? I guess Sarah takes after me.........I am infamous in my family for my gigantic birthday banner for Tony which read: Happy Bithday!
I saw Matthew standing, with this background, and had to have it memorialized. It was a beautiful day..........and Matthew loves this mountain........his mountain.
It was definitely a bit chilly when that wind came up.........even the boys, Matthew & Garrett took shelter in the beach towels.
Sarah loves......I mean really loves Louise. She thinks Louise is one of her most favorite people in the whole world. She is one of mine, too.
And, not sure if it was the last bird of the day.....but there was this lone sandpiper at the shore.......he was very busy. I just sat and watched him for a bit.
Oh, of course, we also saw Canadian Geese, Stellar Jays, swallows, Western Scrub Jays and pigeons. :)
The lake was painted with several different colors today.........can you see the subtle changes in colors in the above photo?
I know you can see the BIG volcano (it is actually two......both peaks are volcanoes)......do you see those two smaller bumps with snow to the right of the big mountain? That is where the ski park is located where the kids hang out all winter........as much as possible.........never enough!
I took this shot and then Malachy threw a rock near him and he got up and flew around us and overhead for about fve minutes. He was so fun to watch. It was as if he put on a show for us of all of his flying skills. Miranda and Malachy and I sure enjoyed his show!
Anne & Maddelyn told me that the florist called and said they had flowers for me. They said I could pick them up on my way home from the lake......this is what was waiting for me!
Aren't they sweet! They smell good, too! The card read:
I sure hope they are from my husband! :) He is out of town for four days............and is so not into presents or birthdays..........so, if it is him.....I AM surprised! :) I guess I will find out on Monday........
We got home..........and I meant to take a nap............but I ended up posting my daybook........and then organizing all of the photos off my camera so I could delete them.......and start fresh.
Eventually, someone asked what was for dinner........and I said I was too tired to cook. Garrett asked what I would make if I was not too tired............I told him I had some pork steaks in the fridge. He said, "If I were to make the steaks, what would I do first?" So, I told him..........and then when they were in the oven.......he cut up red potatoes and seasoned them and tossed them in olive oil.........two trays! Then he followed this with washing lettuce and preparing all of the veggie toppings for the salad. He prepared a salad bar. He made a lovely three-course meal..........ALL>BY>HIMSELF! And, he is only twelve!
I am so proud of him..........it was all delicious.
Then.........I ended the day by coming here.......and journaling my day.
Time to go to bed.........just in case I actually work tomorrow! (I didn't! phew!) Oh, my! It is almost midnight!
Love & Blessings!
Chari
MY HEARTS' HAVEN DAYBOOK 2009
Here is my daybook for Saturday, April 25, 2009
Outside My Window.......a sunny day, as promised by weather.com....I have been waiting as patiently as I could for this day.........sunshine! I just wish it was supposed to be warmer.......but I guess 61* will feel pretty warm after yesterday..........when it was 36* at 10am when I was driving to town..........and there was snow everywhere........all of the trees dusted all the way up to the top of the mountains.
All three weeks of April have had at least one 70* or plus day......and at least one day with a dusting of snow. I can take the teasing..........though it is hard. I can stay hopeful........the calendar shows me that May and June are just around the corner. yes.
I am thinking........who "stole" my internet connection? I have checked everywhere........I am guessing Anne took it with her to Patty's house..........and forgot to bring it home......grrrrr. Everyone is still asleep........so I guess I will find out later.
Hmmm. I just checked her car and school bag.....nothing there. Patty's?
UPDATE: Turned out she had mistakenly left it at the college, sitting in the hallway.....phew! It was still there when she returned today. She is so lucky!
I am thankful for.............my friendship with Cindy. We went to a play last night at the college, at which Anne was the assistant director and propmaster...........and then she treated me to dessert at one of those old diners that has been around since the 1940's. It was nice to visit.........though I think I talked her ear off. :)
We ususally try to do "lunch" whenever both of us are at work at the same time. She is a hospice nurse........I help bring them in.........she helps them to go out. She is a wonderful person...........so I am guessing she is a wonderful nurse. :)
From the kitchen.........I know there is a naked chocolate cake in there..............and some pork steaks in the garage fridge........dinner will probably revolve around that.......as for breakfast............can't decide between a sprouted wheat bagel........or oatmeal.......something soon.....my tummy is growling.
I am wearing........Nevada-Reno Wolfpack socks from my dad.............to keep my feet warm.........some blue and white striped lounge pants handed down from Louise........a loose green shirt my dad bought me at The Gap.......loose and comfy
I am creating........hmmmm.........not sure.......will have to think longer on this......
YEAH, I wrote this last time........but sleepiness disallows the brain for creativity sometimes, ya know? I WANT to scrapbook.........
I am going...........to try to drive no where today........last week was one long day of busy-ness after another. Today is my break. I hope tomorrow is a break, too........I desperately need it. I am scheduled to work tomorrow...........and I pray they cut me because they don't need me. I am scheduled on Tuesday, too.......and I already know I will be working then. I am going to go take a hot bath with a hot cup of Irish Breakfast Tea........which I have not had for over a month.......avoiding caffeine due to my remedy.........and with Walden......though I am tempted to call Willa. Oh, I can't.......my phone just died.
Oh! Louise has called me and I am going to go to meet her at her house to go to "our destination" for a birthday outing.........I will let you know later!
I am reading.........I have finally finished "S.T.A.B.L.E.," a textbook for a STABLE class I have at the end of the month the topic being for post-resuscitation of the newborn and stabilization of the infant being transported. Stiil barely reading The Confessions of Saint Augustine. And almost through one essay in Walden; Or Life in the Woods by Henry David Thoreau. Still reading The Wind in the Willows aloud to the boys.
And, I quickly read Child of the Jungle by Sabine Kuegler. This is the story of this woman's life..........her parents raised her and her siblings in a very remote jungle of Indonesia, as the first white people ever to interact with many of the inhabitants. I feel she wrote it well.........I enjoyed it. I just feel bad that her parents sent all three of them as mid-teens back into the "world" for education.......but had not really prepared them for it. Not only that, but teens need their parents just as toddlers need their parents..........and these teens had to fend for themselves. I think if their parents wanted them to get a Western education......they should have sacrificed a few years out of the jungle..........to care for their burgeoning young adults. A lot of heart ache could have been prevented.
I am hoping.............we can accomplish all required of us by June 4th.............when my calendar shows a bit of freedom. I may make a to-do list.....and, I would love to have warm days to accomplish these things. This busy-ness is why I am not going to be able to blog much.
I am hearing......hum of the computer and Garrett breathing as he stays warm in my bed..........and Doris Day songs.............yeah, I am a little different. :)
I am wondering.......if I have already lived half of my life............or if today is my half-way mark? I am 45 years old today...........and it feels kind of freaky knowing that the first 45 years ZIPPED by .......time is racing, racing.........what does God want me to do with the second half of my life? My grandma is going to be 88 years old in June. I want to be her age some day. And still scrapbooking??? :) My father-in-law is almost to 86 years old..........and still travels all over the country visiting his relatives and kids. I want to do that.
Around the house.......I am not in the same "I can clean the house up in 20 minutes" place I have been over the last few years. It has been a bit sloppy for the last few weeks.......is it months? And, I cannot take it anymore!
Now Showing..........I watched "What's Eating Gilbert Grape?" the other night.........when I should have been sleeping. Well-acted..........Leonardo Dicapprio was AMAZING portraying an 18 year old.........I think he was autistic.......but they never said....I think. There is one, er, two bad parts.....so I will not share it with the kids.......plus it was just plain depressing........
We have started the second disc of The Planet Earth, a BBC series from Discovery Channel. They spent over 25 million dollars making it.......and it shows. It is absolutely wonderful and amazing!!! See it if you can........we are getting ours from Netflix.
In the schoolroom.....and OUT of the schoolroom....Bach, squares & rectangles, multiplication, fractions, pi, circumference of a circle, decimals, copywork, grammar, spelling, baseball, piano, singing, American history, chicken egg development, picture books "starring" chickens, Saint stories, First Holy communion notebook and prep, play rehearsals, tee ball & baseball for the two little boys.............and more
One of my favorite things.........a yummy pastrami sandwich, mustard and pickles only..........from Johnny's Pastrami......where four generations of my family love, love, love to eat! I have mentioned it on my blog before........we try to go there the day before we go to Disneyland. You can see photos here.
Why is it on my mind? Well, Louise called this morning, and asked me "What else is on a Johnny's Pastrami sandwich besides pickles?" Now it is heavy on my mind...... :)
Signs of the seasons............my pear tree is blooming.......see weather above.......I have purple grape hyacinths and daffidils........the lawn is getting quite green........a few days last week without leggings or sweatshirts........little league.....
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...........hmmm....let's see.....
Monday-usual drive all over, from one town to another.......oh, piano is in the evening instead of afternoon.....tee ball game for Malachy
Tuesday-I work
Wednesday-I am taking a class all day.......little boys to Shawna's all day........rest of kids to college class and then to Patty's for math and whatever
Thursday-testing at the charter school for the kids (note......I do it for the charter school.........I do not ever teach to the test.......we do our own thing.period. ......the tests are meaningless to me.....and I teach the kids the same) -tee ball game for Malachy
Friday-Sarah goes to see the pediatric cardiologist in the morning and then the usual driving plus help Matthew work on set-building-take Maddelyn to see the concert band concert at the college
Saturday-take a college student from San Diego to see waterfalls and other natural history around here.......before he moves back home!
Sunday- Mass........rest!!!???
Special prayer requests on my mind this week.........that the homeopathic practioner can find the right remedy for me.......the last did not cure me............and private intentions.
St. Gerard's List..........Tonia, Suzanne, Louise, Victoria & Erica.....and we can add two of our nieces......both in New Hampshire: Clara due with #5 and Suzanne with #2. So strange to write that.........I knew both of them when they were babies!
I am currently scrapbooking..........June? Where are you??? I kind of thought I would scrapbook all day for my birthday........but I think that will not be. Maybe this afternoon???
I am exercising.........I think I only got on the treadmill once last week due to not being home all week long...........but, it went well! I should get three days in this week........
Here is picture thought I am sharing........
Malachy dressed up in Maddelyn's ballet recital costume when he was about 8 months old.....or is he 18 months old?
God bless!
Love,
Chari
Saturday, April 18, 2009
My Hearts' Haven Daybook
This daybook was originally written on Wednesday, April 15......and could only be posted now......
Outside My Window.......looks like another week in a row of snow and freezing temperatures mixed with 70* days......glad the 70* are waiting for the weekend....can't wait. all that to say......it is freezing cold outside..........gray.......with a thick dusting of snow on the ground........and snow still spitting! BRRRRR.
I am thinking........I wish nitrates did not give me headaches. Marty could not find a nitrate-free ham this Easter. The ham he did buy was muy delicioso!! But....it hurts my head. :(
I am thankful for.............my husband doing the taxes every year and leaving me out of the project. :) SO INCREDIBLY thankful......
From the kitchen.........not sure what's for dinner.
I am wearing........a pink night gown with flower print.......and an old Nevada-Reno Wolfpack sweatshirt, to keep warm, of course.
I am creating........hmmmm.........not sure.......will have to think longer on this......
I am going...........to be a chauffeur, for the day, as usual......meet with Shelly, kids from math, kids to rehearsal, Garrett to and from baseball.......yadda yadda yadda....translated: ad nauseum :)
I am reading.........still: S.T.A.B.L.E., a textbook for a STABLE class I have at the end of the month the topic being for post-resuscitation of the newborn and stabilization of the infant being transported. Finished Those Who Love by Irving Stone. Also just finished an amazing and wonderful book: The Family and the Cross: The Stations of the Cross and Their Relation to Family Life by Joseph Breig. It is one of the BEST books I have ever read. I want to see if it has been republished......it is from 1958, I think. I have also re-started The Confessions of Saint Augustine........I am starting it over. And, I have just started Walden; Or Life in the Woods by Henry David Thoreau. Reading The Wind in the Willows aloud to the boys. A LOT of heavier stuff than usual..........wonder if I can keep it going on?
I am hoping.............it warms up very soon. I want my bones warmer. :) I just checked the ten day forecast........and it is supposed to be near 80* by next Sunday.........oh, Deo Gratias!!!!!
I am hearing......the chatter of six children in their morning routines...........
I am wondering.......if I should go get "something....anything" done
Around the house.......I got a kitchen counter and desk decluttered....AND, this is HUGE: ALL of the snow, ski, boarding gear put away for the rest of the year...AND the garage revamped...AND all of the games put away and re-organized. All of this took only an afternoon because it is one part of my life I have organized well.......and I work on it about every 8 weeks out of the year. to maintain it. It is nice when an organization system works. Too bad I cannot get the rest of the house in that same order.....my poor desk.....my poor husband.
Now Showing..........Kung Fu Panda, Planet Earth, disc one........old musicals like High Society, Oklahoma, etc, for the voice students' homework. Northanger Abbey for the girls and their friend.
In the schoolroom.....and OUT of the schoolroom....what I wrote last time pretty much sums it up: Bach, squares & rectangles, adding to ten, multiplication, fractions, decimals, German, violin, copywork, baseball, piano, singing, American history, chicken egg development, picture books "starring" chickens, Saint stories, First Holy communion notebook and prep, play rehearsals, skiing & boarding (last weekend was LAST day).............and more
One of my favorite things.........watching Matthew build a set for their upcoming play!
Signs of the seasons............minimal snow.....buds on trees........crocuses at the hospital......a few more flowers out this week.......baseball.....bird sounds ever increasing.....swallows diving all around my house.......a freshly roto-tilled garden......ahhhh
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week........opening day of baseball on Saturday.......support Matthew in set-building (drive him here and there...sit with him at the school while he works)...make college phone calls......Anne has an opening weekend for the college play she is co-directing and working as the propmaster for.......maybe go see the play......hang laundry out on the line for the first time this year.......collect learning samples for school......aid Maddelyn in a homework project or two.......go over Matthew's senior project plans......take four of us to the dentist for cleanings and only one filling.....maybe work one day.......study for my class.......attend a three hour meeting/class at work...plus the usual!
Special prayer requests on my mind this week.........for Thomas Aquinas College and the family of its president, Dr. Dillon, who recently died in a car accident.....for Emily and her family.....for a young girl I know.....for Matthew and his doings.......and private intentions.
St. Gerard's List..........Tonia, Suzanne, Louise, Victoria & Erica.....oh, and adding Mindy, someone in our homeschool group
I am currently scrapbooking..........I read a scrapbook magazine from Creative Memories. I am kind of bummed....just when they got the magazine to be really top rate....they go and decide to close the magazine. Boo hoo. There are so many ideas in this last issue.....that I am looking forward to experimenting with....now, to get through some crazy days and try to do some scrapbooking. I don't see how :(
I am exercising.........well, I started the week strong......two miles plus a day for three days....I am feeling stronger.......I know I have more stamina for my days.....I pray I can keep up......wonder if I can take a walk outside this weekend in the warmer weather?
Here is picture thought I am sharing........
well....I.....have tried twice and waited forever for three fotos to load...it is not working this morning...so que sera sera.....
Love, chari
Outside My Window.......looks like another week in a row of snow and freezing temperatures mixed with 70* days......glad the 70* are waiting for the weekend....can't wait. all that to say......it is freezing cold outside..........gray.......with a thick dusting of snow on the ground........and snow still spitting! BRRRRR.
I am thinking........I wish nitrates did not give me headaches. Marty could not find a nitrate-free ham this Easter. The ham he did buy was muy delicioso!! But....it hurts my head. :(
I am thankful for.............my husband doing the taxes every year and leaving me out of the project. :) SO INCREDIBLY thankful......
From the kitchen.........not sure what's for dinner.
I am wearing........a pink night gown with flower print.......and an old Nevada-Reno Wolfpack sweatshirt, to keep warm, of course.
I am creating........hmmmm.........not sure.......will have to think longer on this......
I am going...........to be a chauffeur, for the day, as usual......meet with Shelly, kids from math, kids to rehearsal, Garrett to and from baseball.......yadda yadda yadda....translated: ad nauseum :)
I am reading.........still: S.T.A.B.L.E., a textbook for a STABLE class I have at the end of the month the topic being for post-resuscitation of the newborn and stabilization of the infant being transported. Finished Those Who Love by Irving Stone. Also just finished an amazing and wonderful book: The Family and the Cross: The Stations of the Cross and Their Relation to Family Life by Joseph Breig. It is one of the BEST books I have ever read. I want to see if it has been republished......it is from 1958, I think. I have also re-started The Confessions of Saint Augustine........I am starting it over. And, I have just started Walden; Or Life in the Woods by Henry David Thoreau. Reading The Wind in the Willows aloud to the boys. A LOT of heavier stuff than usual..........wonder if I can keep it going on?
I am hoping.............it warms up very soon. I want my bones warmer. :) I just checked the ten day forecast........and it is supposed to be near 80* by next Sunday.........oh, Deo Gratias!!!!!
I am hearing......the chatter of six children in their morning routines...........
I am wondering.......if I should go get "something....anything" done
Around the house.......I got a kitchen counter and desk decluttered....AND, this is HUGE: ALL of the snow, ski, boarding gear put away for the rest of the year...AND the garage revamped...AND all of the games put away and re-organized. All of this took only an afternoon because it is one part of my life I have organized well.......and I work on it about every 8 weeks out of the year. to maintain it. It is nice when an organization system works. Too bad I cannot get the rest of the house in that same order.....my poor desk.....my poor husband.
Now Showing..........Kung Fu Panda, Planet Earth, disc one........old musicals like High Society, Oklahoma, etc, for the voice students' homework. Northanger Abbey for the girls and their friend.
In the schoolroom.....and OUT of the schoolroom....what I wrote last time pretty much sums it up: Bach, squares & rectangles, adding to ten, multiplication, fractions, decimals, German, violin, copywork, baseball, piano, singing, American history, chicken egg development, picture books "starring" chickens, Saint stories, First Holy communion notebook and prep, play rehearsals, skiing & boarding (last weekend was LAST day).............and more
One of my favorite things.........watching Matthew build a set for their upcoming play!
Signs of the seasons............minimal snow.....buds on trees........crocuses at the hospital......a few more flowers out this week.......baseball.....bird sounds ever increasing.....swallows diving all around my house.......a freshly roto-tilled garden......ahhhh
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week........opening day of baseball on Saturday.......support Matthew in set-building (drive him here and there...sit with him at the school while he works)...make college phone calls......Anne has an opening weekend for the college play she is co-directing and working as the propmaster for.......maybe go see the play......hang laundry out on the line for the first time this year.......collect learning samples for school......aid Maddelyn in a homework project or two.......go over Matthew's senior project plans......take four of us to the dentist for cleanings and only one filling.....maybe work one day.......study for my class.......attend a three hour meeting/class at work...plus the usual!
Special prayer requests on my mind this week.........for Thomas Aquinas College and the family of its president, Dr. Dillon, who recently died in a car accident.....for Emily and her family.....for a young girl I know.....for Matthew and his doings.......and private intentions.
St. Gerard's List..........Tonia, Suzanne, Louise, Victoria & Erica.....oh, and adding Mindy, someone in our homeschool group
I am currently scrapbooking..........I read a scrapbook magazine from Creative Memories. I am kind of bummed....just when they got the magazine to be really top rate....they go and decide to close the magazine. Boo hoo. There are so many ideas in this last issue.....that I am looking forward to experimenting with....now, to get through some crazy days and try to do some scrapbooking. I don't see how :(
I am exercising.........well, I started the week strong......two miles plus a day for three days....I am feeling stronger.......I know I have more stamina for my days.....I pray I can keep up......wonder if I can take a walk outside this weekend in the warmer weather?
Here is picture thought I am sharing........
well....I.....have tried twice and waited forever for three fotos to load...it is not working this morning...so que sera sera.....
Love, chari
Monday, April 13, 2009
A Happy & Holy Easter week to you!
HE IS RISEN!
HE IS RISEN INDEED!
Love, Chari
The Resurrection of Christ and the Women at the Tomb
Fra ANGELICO; 1440-41 fresco; convento di San Marco, Florence
Saturday, April 11, 2009
What the heck is "pond skimming"?
Do you know?
(Originally written on Saturday night, last.)
Well, I had never heard of it. I am not sure where I was yesterday, but someone told me all about it....or was that Thursday???
So, today, when I took the kids to the ski park......and I bumped into my friend Laurie, who is a manager at the park........and she was dressed in weird 80's clothes.........and she said she was going to go try this "pond skimming," I just knew I had to go check it out.
I also noticed an RN from the hospital in the bathroom, dressing down, and getting ready to go try it.
And, then I saw Katie, who is the local homeschooled girl who went to Germany last year with the Rotary.....and someone I have known since she was four years old.......in line to join the fun........
I thought I would come home and see if there were any videos online....so I could share my experience.....as a spectator, that is...........and I found A LOT of video!
I guess this is a fun spring skiing thing to do. Brrrrr!
This first video is very similar to what our park had today......but our hill was a bit steeper.......and to get out at the end you had to actually lift yourself into the air a bit to get out. More tricky!
The first skier down today was one of the co-owners of the park. He biffed good! OUCH! I was thinking: this is dangerous........are there EMTs here???
But the rest did not eat it as bad as he did.
So, you need to know.......this is extremely cold water.......as in there were little icebergs floating in the water. We also had a diver just on the edge of the pool or in it.......to help folks out. I thought that was a very humane thing to do.
Watch and see what you think...........
What I noticed today was this......you were least likely to get across if....
- you were female.......NO women got across today
- you were young.....only ONE kid got across.....though one who missed the first time did make it the second
- you were on skiis.......while some skiers did make it.....the boarders had better luck
And, OF COURSE, Garrett asked in all seriousness....if HE could try. Like, I don't think so.........remember you are recovering from a head injury???? Duh.
Don't tell him.......but, I just might let him try next year......shhhh. If they do it again. They do not do it every year....but everyone had so much fun.....I think they just might.
I also found this other video.....kind of funny.......or not. Depends on who you are.......my kids and I laughed. What does that tell you? :)
And, here is one more.......and it is not like we really need one more video.....but, about 19 seconds into this video.....is one of our favorite runs. Too funny! Oh, and the music is fun....one of my own....and the world's......favorite pieces of music!
Fun??? You wanna try?
I did not see Frances anywhere......but I think she and her family would have loved this........and I wished I had grabbed Abraham!
HAPPY SPRING!!!!
Love, chari
P.S. I am SO EXCITED that I finally figured out how to put a video up! Yes!
Well, it is not as if I had ever tried before. :)
But now.....I can put my favorite youtube video on here.........one I am sure you are all familiar with....but if you are not.....you hafta see it! Watch for next week........
Haven Heartbeats
So, just some random thoughts.........that is what the Haven Heartbeats stands for.....right?
I tried all week to post......but I never felt like writing. I had some fantasy of posting something profound daily for Holy Week. Maybe next year........
I had an opportunity to chat with my brother-in-law David a few evenings ago. He and his family used to live here, in our town, but up and moved to New Hampshire about 12.5 years ago. That was a sad day.
Anyway, he and his wife Christine, have ten children.......only four are still at home......hey, that will be like us next fall! I have two more St. Gerard prayer requests now. Two of our nieces, Clara and Suzanne, are expecting babies the same week......the last week of September. It will be 5th and 3rd respectively. They both live in New Hampshire, too
Yesterday morning we woke up to four inches of snow. Of course, it is all gone this morning....and the sun is currently rising today. We have had a week of dreary weather.......except for that gorgeous last Monday....when it hit 70*!
Today is supposed to be near 60*.......and I think the plan is to take the kids skiing/boarding for their last day of this season. I believe we are even going to be brave and let Garrett board today. And, Malachy gets to play a big kid and join them for the day, too. The last few outings the kids have been able to take him on the intermediate ski lift. That is cool.
I am longing for Spring......and for FREE days...to get things done around here. Oh, and the energy to do it, too, would be helpful. :)
Speaking of energy, using the treadmill as many days a week as possible (so far, four times a week) has definitely made a difference in my energy, even in spite of the fact that my latest sleeping, or lack of sleeping, issue has been for my body and mind to wake up between 4:30 and 6:30 am, never to fall back to sleep. That is why I am here this morning, all by myself......peace and quiet!
It is kind of funny.........how self-absorbed blog posts can be. I don't really want to talk about myself so much......but, I guess if I actually wrote hard copy letters to my friends and loved ones...it might look like this blog.
I tried all week to post......but I never felt like writing. I had some fantasy of posting something profound daily for Holy Week. Maybe next year........
I had an opportunity to chat with my brother-in-law David a few evenings ago. He and his family used to live here, in our town, but up and moved to New Hampshire about 12.5 years ago. That was a sad day.
Anyway, he and his wife Christine, have ten children.......only four are still at home......hey, that will be like us next fall! I have two more St. Gerard prayer requests now. Two of our nieces, Clara and Suzanne, are expecting babies the same week......the last week of September. It will be 5th and 3rd respectively. They both live in New Hampshire, too
Yesterday morning we woke up to four inches of snow. Of course, it is all gone this morning....and the sun is currently rising today. We have had a week of dreary weather.......except for that gorgeous last Monday....when it hit 70*!
Today is supposed to be near 60*.......and I think the plan is to take the kids skiing/boarding for their last day of this season. I believe we are even going to be brave and let Garrett board today. And, Malachy gets to play a big kid and join them for the day, too. The last few outings the kids have been able to take him on the intermediate ski lift. That is cool.
I am longing for Spring......and for FREE days...to get things done around here. Oh, and the energy to do it, too, would be helpful. :)
Speaking of energy, using the treadmill as many days a week as possible (so far, four times a week) has definitely made a difference in my energy, even in spite of the fact that my latest sleeping, or lack of sleeping, issue has been for my body and mind to wake up between 4:30 and 6:30 am, never to fall back to sleep. That is why I am here this morning, all by myself......peace and quiet!
It is kind of funny.........how self-absorbed blog posts can be. I don't really want to talk about myself so much......but, I guess if I actually wrote hard copy letters to my friends and loved ones...it might look like this blog.
*************************************
So, that is all I got written this morning, before the hordes awakened.......and we had to get up to the ski park.
***
It was a good day up there. I will write a post all about a specific experience I had up there today........and post it tomorrow.
***
Malachy got to go on more intermediate runs today............and then when his papa got up there..........they took him on some advanced runs. Marty says he can do the whole park now......just no "tree skiing." What?!!?? There's tree skiing up there????
***
I came home and wandered around aimlessly for awhile and finally we put a documentary on....and I crashed hard. Unfortunately I did not get a second wind......I am still dragging. I guess the Easter feast shall be totally prepared on Easter.
***
I checked out the ten day forecast a few minutes ago.............all of the rain has been mostly taken out of the equation.....and I see by next weekend........we will be near 70*! I told Marty he had better get my clothes line up before next weekend! I think my weekend is not very scheduled......past opening day for baseball season here.
***
Got to go see if I can do anything to salvage my time tonight.......it is only a little after nine!
*****
EASTER BLESSINGS
TO ALL OF YOU!!!!!
*****
<<<*>>>
Love, chari
Friday, April 3, 2009
MY HEARTS' HAVEN DAYBOOK 2009
Outside My Window.......quite a chilly day.......will dip into the 20's tonight. It is April, right? There was a good dusting of snow on the ground this morning....and it still spits snow, but none sticking.
I am thinking........I have SO MUCH TO DO TODAY! I better get going. I will write this off and on throughout the day...if I can manage it!
I am thankful for.............my friend Shawna......and her husband Jacob. Besides letting my little boys hang out at her house all day yesterday......and feeding them dinner while I got the oil changed in the car........it is a pleasure to talk with her......and I appreciate that when I inserted my foot into my mouth in a public display of forgetting to "think before I speak" they can laugh at me and with me.........and not take it all too seriously. And, I am very happy to have Jacob as a coach for Malachy's tee ball team.......and I love the way they both allow Garrett so much time practicing leadership skills........where, as the 5th child in my home he is not often allowed to exert that capability. Oh, and I appreciate that Shawna did not kick me out last night when it was getting late :)
From the kitchen.........still thinking on this.......tuna for lunch.......cheese pizza, homemade for dinner???
I am wearing........my treadmill clothes: a pair of pastel capris and a purple Curves shirt and my tennis shoes
I am creating........energy, with my exercising! Let's hope!
I am going...........to Davis tonight. Matthew, Marty and I will travel down to Davis for Matthew's outbound orientation with the Rotary Youth Exchange Program. Katie, who is my dear friend Sheila's daughter, will be traveling with us.........she went to Germany in the same program, and was Matthew's inspiration for getting himself out of the country :)
I am reading.........S.T.A.B.L.E., a textbook for a STABLE class I have at the end of the month (YES!!!! ANOTHER CLASS!!!) the topic being for post-resuscitation of the newborn and stabilization of the infant being transported. FUN. Actually, it has been about four years since I last took the class and there has been a lot of interesting research since then..........things seem more simplified. Also, just about finished with Those Who Love by Irving Stone. Finished The Phantom Tollbooth with the little boys.........and have started The Wind in the Willows aloud to the boys. I also read to them at night: Stories of Favorite Saints by Bertha C. Krall
I am hoping.............that the rhythm to our days will maintain and improve......a rhythm I have been aiming for since January!!!......and that we have a good, productive day tomorrow at the orientation.....and that the homeopathic remedy will cure these asthma symptoms........and that I can lose weight and get in better shape. There. I said it publicly. :)
I am hearing......the hum of a computer......that is all.
I am wondering.......if I should just post this as it before I go tonight.........so all of the tenses are right within my sentences.
Around the house.......slowly getting straightened up. I have a short term plan........and I hope the kids involved will put it into effect tomorrow!
Now Showing..........Travel movies from Netflix for Switzerland, Germany & Austria. A movie about Bach, for the little boys.
In the schoolroom.....and OUT of the schoolroom....Bach, squares & rectangles, multiplication, fractions, decimals, travel videos, copywork, baseball, piano, singing, American history, chicken egg development, picture books "starring" chickens, Saint stories, First Holy communion notebook and prep, play rehearsals, skiing & boarding.............and more
One of my favorite things.........a tuna melt!
Signs of the seasons............minimal snow.....buds on trees........crocuses at the hospital......spring skiing
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...........too much to write now......but, it is Holy Week!
Special prayer requests on my mind this week.........travel prayers for the weekend.....and private intentions.
St. Gerard's List..........Tonia, Suzanne, Louise, Victoria & Erica
I am currently scrapbooking..........I just got an order of new paper and pages and an album and some tape refills.........I hope to scrapbook a week from Saturday. :) You know........all I want is a room to leave my scrapbook stuff out so I can do 0-30 minutes whenever I have time.............I think I will do leaver it out for the month of June........we'll see.
Oh! I almost forgot! I am getting some journaling done from the mid-eighties. That is a HUGE success! Scrapbookers everywhere are aware, eh?
I am exercising.........I am! FINALLY!!! Now, if it would warm up.....I would like to go walking outside.........can't go when it is cold.......it makes it hard to breathe.....and I couch for the rest of the day........ugh
Here is picture thought I am sharing........no time....gotta post now!
Love,
chari
I am thinking........I have SO MUCH TO DO TODAY! I better get going. I will write this off and on throughout the day...if I can manage it!
I am thankful for.............my friend Shawna......and her husband Jacob. Besides letting my little boys hang out at her house all day yesterday......and feeding them dinner while I got the oil changed in the car........it is a pleasure to talk with her......and I appreciate that when I inserted my foot into my mouth in a public display of forgetting to "think before I speak" they can laugh at me and with me.........and not take it all too seriously. And, I am very happy to have Jacob as a coach for Malachy's tee ball team.......and I love the way they both allow Garrett so much time practicing leadership skills........where, as the 5th child in my home he is not often allowed to exert that capability. Oh, and I appreciate that Shawna did not kick me out last night when it was getting late :)
From the kitchen.........still thinking on this.......tuna for lunch.......cheese pizza, homemade for dinner???
I am wearing........my treadmill clothes: a pair of pastel capris and a purple Curves shirt and my tennis shoes
I am creating........energy, with my exercising! Let's hope!
I am going...........to Davis tonight. Matthew, Marty and I will travel down to Davis for Matthew's outbound orientation with the Rotary Youth Exchange Program. Katie, who is my dear friend Sheila's daughter, will be traveling with us.........she went to Germany in the same program, and was Matthew's inspiration for getting himself out of the country :)
I am reading.........S.T.A.B.L.E., a textbook for a STABLE class I have at the end of the month (YES!!!! ANOTHER CLASS!!!) the topic being for post-resuscitation of the newborn and stabilization of the infant being transported. FUN. Actually, it has been about four years since I last took the class and there has been a lot of interesting research since then..........things seem more simplified. Also, just about finished with Those Who Love by Irving Stone. Finished The Phantom Tollbooth with the little boys.........and have started The Wind in the Willows aloud to the boys. I also read to them at night: Stories of Favorite Saints by Bertha C. Krall
I am hoping.............that the rhythm to our days will maintain and improve......a rhythm I have been aiming for since January!!!......and that we have a good, productive day tomorrow at the orientation.....and that the homeopathic remedy will cure these asthma symptoms........and that I can lose weight and get in better shape. There. I said it publicly. :)
I am hearing......the hum of a computer......that is all.
I am wondering.......if I should just post this as it before I go tonight.........so all of the tenses are right within my sentences.
Around the house.......slowly getting straightened up. I have a short term plan........and I hope the kids involved will put it into effect tomorrow!
Now Showing..........Travel movies from Netflix for Switzerland, Germany & Austria. A movie about Bach, for the little boys.
In the schoolroom.....and OUT of the schoolroom....Bach, squares & rectangles, multiplication, fractions, decimals, travel videos, copywork, baseball, piano, singing, American history, chicken egg development, picture books "starring" chickens, Saint stories, First Holy communion notebook and prep, play rehearsals, skiing & boarding.............and more
One of my favorite things.........a tuna melt!
Signs of the seasons............minimal snow.....buds on trees........crocuses at the hospital......spring skiing
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...........too much to write now......but, it is Holy Week!
Special prayer requests on my mind this week.........travel prayers for the weekend.....and private intentions.
St. Gerard's List..........Tonia, Suzanne, Louise, Victoria & Erica
I am currently scrapbooking..........I just got an order of new paper and pages and an album and some tape refills.........I hope to scrapbook a week from Saturday. :) You know........all I want is a room to leave my scrapbook stuff out so I can do 0-30 minutes whenever I have time.............I think I will do leaver it out for the month of June........we'll see.
Oh! I almost forgot! I am getting some journaling done from the mid-eighties. That is a HUGE success! Scrapbookers everywhere are aware, eh?
I am exercising.........I am! FINALLY!!! Now, if it would warm up.....I would like to go walking outside.........can't go when it is cold.......it makes it hard to breathe.....and I couch for the rest of the day........ugh
Here is picture thought I am sharing........no time....gotta post now!
Love,
chari
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Haven Heartbeats
I am feeling so spacy.......I am not even sure if I can make a complete thought......I expect this post may go in many different directions....or maybe not. We will know when it is completed. There are a few posts in my head that I want to commit to the blog...but I cannot get focused for the moment.
Since I am having to wait around for Maddelyn's 50 minute class at the college, spending the time blogging is a good use of my time, since I will not do it at home......much. You may have noticed.
So, let's see...where to start.
Anne has a pray request for all of us. Two of her friends at the college, siblings.....just found out that their mother is dying of cancer......"if chemo goes well, she could have five years." Anne's heart is broken for them.
Oh, blank mind.
Another friend needs prayers, as she and her husband discern how and when to sell their home and to purchase another one. You know who you are. :)
Garrett is in his last year of Majors in the baseball world. I took him to practice yesterday.....left him there with a teammate and parent...only to have him call me an hour later stating practice had been cancelled. What??? I checked the schedule. Oh, Sorry, Garrett.......there was NO practice scheduled. Not till Wednesday.
We have a bit of a dilemma with baseball and the play he is in.......practice and rehearsal overlap by 30 minutes....and Garrett is only in the play in that last half hour. I pray the coach is understanding.
Today Malachy begins tee ball practice. While I am not very found of tee ball.......I am SO glad to be done with Pee Wee Tee ball.......that can really get my patience. We only do tee ball because it is so exciting for the boys to be playing ball......and they are at a disadvantage in minors if they had never played tee ball. So, there you go.
Last week I got a phone call from Shawna saying, "I have a 'full circle' story for you." It turns out that her husband Jacob, who was coached by David, Marty's brother, and by Marty as the assistant, when he was 14 years old.......will now be coaching, Malachy, Marty's son. Malachy is so happy to be on Abraham's team. And so happy to have Jacob for a coach. So is Marty, in fact.
I put Malachy to bed early last night....for him....and he awakened before first light, at 6:45am...the first words out of his mouth were: What time is practice? :)
Maybe his late bedtimes ARE better........for me anyway. :) I like having quiet mornings.......plus......when he awakens before me.......he just keeps chatting at me...not conducive to a few more minutes of rest.
I am getting happier with my new camera...which is good...because it is now mine...and too late to take back. :) There are so many new settings on the camera...it is going to take awhile to figure it all out. Oh! I almost forgot! I bought it at a private camera store.......and they offer a complimentary class on how to use the camera......I need to look into that. And, if it works out just right....maybe I can invite myself for tea, Gloria? I have YET to find a way to stop in your town....I am always passing through or have an all-day commitment. I need to go see Anne, too. It has been way too long. She is Garrett's godmother.
I have to go switch cell phone services this week......or next. So, I end up with a new phone, whether I want it or not. I am not fond of change that is not of my choosing. :) Our local cell phone company will be no more...but will be an ATT dealer. So, we get to pay more each moth now, for less service. BUT, since my family in Nevada all have ATT.....all phone calls will be free to them and vice versa. So, maybe we will get our money's worth.
Ski/board season is almost up here. Looks like closing day is April 12th. I hope to take the kids up there this Thursday afternoon. And, then maybe next Thursday and then maybe the last weekend. We had a family pass this year...it was cheaper than individual passes. We got it paid off last week....so, all the rest is our extra.
Marty took all of the kids up last Saturday. They had a blast. Marty got all of the equipment for AJ, Anne's friend from San Diego, and then gave him boarding lessons on the bunny hill for a moment.......and then AJ took off.........boarding pretty much the whole park on his first day of boarding.ever. He even went down the face for his last run. The kids are very amused by this.
My time is almost up.......what to say? What to say?
I was supposed to work today.......but they cut me.
I found a good book to read for Passiontide: The Family and the Cross. Or, is it The Cross and the Family? Ah, well. It is a very short, very meaty book. PERFECT topic for the last two weeks of Lent.
When I was at Shawna's yesterday, I tried one of those EMERGEN-C vitamin powders. It certainly increased my energy. And, my energy was so low that I was actually laying down on the bench in her kitchen because I was so tired. I want to try them again to see if there is a consistency. I cannot take multi-vitamin pills....maybe having this powder daily can make up for it. Micki, my co-worker and friend, has been drinking these about 3-4 in the afternoon when she hits that afternoon lag in our 12 hour shift. She has been encouraging me to try them. She is trying to avoid the coffee in the afternoon.....and I won't do the coffee.....so......I put it on Marty's next shopping list!
Well, that's it for my chatterings....got to go meet Maddelyn. She does not like it when I am late. :)
Blessings and love on this lovely day that God gave to you and me!
Chari
Since I am having to wait around for Maddelyn's 50 minute class at the college, spending the time blogging is a good use of my time, since I will not do it at home......much. You may have noticed.
So, let's see...where to start.
Anne has a pray request for all of us. Two of her friends at the college, siblings.....just found out that their mother is dying of cancer......"if chemo goes well, she could have five years." Anne's heart is broken for them.
Oh, blank mind.
Another friend needs prayers, as she and her husband discern how and when to sell their home and to purchase another one. You know who you are. :)
Garrett is in his last year of Majors in the baseball world. I took him to practice yesterday.....left him there with a teammate and parent...only to have him call me an hour later stating practice had been cancelled. What??? I checked the schedule. Oh, Sorry, Garrett.......there was NO practice scheduled. Not till Wednesday.
We have a bit of a dilemma with baseball and the play he is in.......practice and rehearsal overlap by 30 minutes....and Garrett is only in the play in that last half hour. I pray the coach is understanding.
Today Malachy begins tee ball practice. While I am not very found of tee ball.......I am SO glad to be done with Pee Wee Tee ball.......that can really get my patience. We only do tee ball because it is so exciting for the boys to be playing ball......and they are at a disadvantage in minors if they had never played tee ball. So, there you go.
Last week I got a phone call from Shawna saying, "I have a 'full circle' story for you." It turns out that her husband Jacob, who was coached by David, Marty's brother, and by Marty as the assistant, when he was 14 years old.......will now be coaching, Malachy, Marty's son. Malachy is so happy to be on Abraham's team. And so happy to have Jacob for a coach. So is Marty, in fact.
I put Malachy to bed early last night....for him....and he awakened before first light, at 6:45am...the first words out of his mouth were: What time is practice? :)
Maybe his late bedtimes ARE better........for me anyway. :) I like having quiet mornings.......plus......when he awakens before me.......he just keeps chatting at me...not conducive to a few more minutes of rest.
I am getting happier with my new camera...which is good...because it is now mine...and too late to take back. :) There are so many new settings on the camera...it is going to take awhile to figure it all out. Oh! I almost forgot! I bought it at a private camera store.......and they offer a complimentary class on how to use the camera......I need to look into that. And, if it works out just right....maybe I can invite myself for tea, Gloria? I have YET to find a way to stop in your town....I am always passing through or have an all-day commitment. I need to go see Anne, too. It has been way too long. She is Garrett's godmother.
I have to go switch cell phone services this week......or next. So, I end up with a new phone, whether I want it or not. I am not fond of change that is not of my choosing. :) Our local cell phone company will be no more...but will be an ATT dealer. So, we get to pay more each moth now, for less service. BUT, since my family in Nevada all have ATT.....all phone calls will be free to them and vice versa. So, maybe we will get our money's worth.
Ski/board season is almost up here. Looks like closing day is April 12th. I hope to take the kids up there this Thursday afternoon. And, then maybe next Thursday and then maybe the last weekend. We had a family pass this year...it was cheaper than individual passes. We got it paid off last week....so, all the rest is our extra.
Marty took all of the kids up last Saturday. They had a blast. Marty got all of the equipment for AJ, Anne's friend from San Diego, and then gave him boarding lessons on the bunny hill for a moment.......and then AJ took off.........boarding pretty much the whole park on his first day of boarding.ever. He even went down the face for his last run. The kids are very amused by this.
My time is almost up.......what to say? What to say?
I was supposed to work today.......but they cut me.
I found a good book to read for Passiontide: The Family and the Cross. Or, is it The Cross and the Family? Ah, well. It is a very short, very meaty book. PERFECT topic for the last two weeks of Lent.
When I was at Shawna's yesterday, I tried one of those EMERGEN-C vitamin powders. It certainly increased my energy. And, my energy was so low that I was actually laying down on the bench in her kitchen because I was so tired. I want to try them again to see if there is a consistency. I cannot take multi-vitamin pills....maybe having this powder daily can make up for it. Micki, my co-worker and friend, has been drinking these about 3-4 in the afternoon when she hits that afternoon lag in our 12 hour shift. She has been encouraging me to try them. She is trying to avoid the coffee in the afternoon.....and I won't do the coffee.....so......I put it on Marty's next shopping list!
Well, that's it for my chatterings....got to go meet Maddelyn. She does not like it when I am late. :)
Blessings and love on this lovely day that God gave to you and me!
Chari
Saturday, March 28, 2009
I am SO blessed!!!
I am so happy! I love God so much. And tomorrow He comes to me, in Holy Communion. I am so excited! My heart is so full of love, it is overflowing. This anticipation brings me such joy. And, first confession.....then Mass, with the Holy Eucharist.......followed by the opportunity to sit with Jesus.
Everyone else goes in to the parish potluck.......and I always stay behind in the chapel.
To adore.....
To beg forgiveness.....
To petition....
To give thanks.......
To praise......
Everyone else goes in to the parish potluck.......and I always stay behind in the chapel.
To adore.....
To beg forgiveness.....
To petition....
To give thanks.......
To praise......
To just sit and listen......
I offer up prayers for each of my family members by name.
And, I always light two candles before I leave, for some special intentions.
I love Mass. I love receiving Our Lord. I love my Catholic Faith.
I am so blessed.
Act of Adoration and Thanksgiving
for the Benefits Accrued from the Incarnation
Most Holy Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit,behold us prostrate in Thy divine presence. We humble ourselves profoundly and beg of Thee the forgiveness of our sins.I. We adore Thee, Almighty Father, and with hearts overflowing we thank Thee that Thou hast given us Thy Divine Son Jesus to be our Redeemer, and that He hath bequeathed Himself to us in the most august Eucharist even to the end of the world, revealing unto us the wondrous love of His Heart in this mystery of faith and love.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
II. O Word of God, dear Jesus our Redeemer, we adore Thee and with hearts over-flowing we thank Thee for having taken human flesh upon Thee and become for our redemption both Priest and Victim in the sacrifice of the Cross, a sacrifice which, through the exceeding love of Thy Sacred Heart, Thou dost renew upon our altars at every moment. O High Priest, O Divine Victim, give us the grace to honour Thy holy sacrifice in the most adorable Eucharist with the homage of Mary most holy and of all Thy holy Church, triumphant, suffering and militant. We offer ourselves wholly to Thee; of Thine infinite goodness and mercy do Thou accept our offering, unite it to Thine own and grant us Thy blessing.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
III. O Divine Spirit the Paraclete, we adore Thee and with hearts overflowing we give Thee thanks that Thou hast, with such great love for us, wrought the ineffable blessing of the Incarnation of the Word of God, a blessing which is being continually extended and enlarged in the most august Sacrament of the Eucharist. Ah, by this adorable mystery of the love of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, do Thou grant unto us and all poor sinners Thy holy grace. Pour forth Thy holy gifts upon us and upon all redeemed souls, and in an especial manner upon the visible Head of the Church, the supreme Roman Pontiff, upon all Cardinals, Bishops and Pastors of souls, upon priests and all other ministers of Thy sanctuary. Amen.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
My favorite two weeks in the Liturgical Year start tomorrow......that could be part of my joy, too. I love Lent.......and I love the last two weeks.
More about praying here.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
My Hearts' Haven daybook 2009
My daybook is back.........but only sporadically!
And, whenever I feel like it......maybe not even on a Monday. :)
I said I would not allow myself to post a daybook till my 2008 Christmas newsletter was completed. I finished it up a few weeks ago...and I may actually get it mailed out...that will remain to be seen.
In the meantime......
Outside My Window............actually, outside the ski park windows........a day of clouds of various shades of gray...from dark to almost white......about 44*....I can see an occasional patch of blue sky. Oh, the sun has made it through some clouds because the snow hurts my eyes when I look out. And Mount Shasta has a most unusual and interesting blanket of lenticular clouds over it, in the shape of the mountain. I also see Malachy & Matthew skiing toward the lodge...and about 25 people of various sizes on the bunny hill.
It was so cold at home because of a chilly wind....but there is barely any wind up here....go figure. This weekend will bring us into the 60*s....yes...YES!!! In fact, of the ten forecast...there are only three days in the 5o*s.and the rest all in the 60*s. Better get Marty to put up the clothesline.
I am thinking.........this is so cool. I am sitting in the lodge at the ski park, warm, sipping my Stash Chai Spice Tea, still hot from the thermos...writing on the computer...because our Verizon Internet cell service can go wherever we want to go...as long as we have "bars".....and there are FOUR here! We only have 2-3 at home.
I am ALSO thinking......boys and girls.....girls and boys.......when your girls are "so good" (a quote from a young man)...it actually makes them more attractive to the guys. Please pray for all of our young people.
There is a young fella here who has a crush on Sarah.......it is amusing. And, thankfully, we do not see him much. Oh......looks there are TWO fellas. They said goodbye to her: "Well, see you next year, if you are still here." :)
I am thankful for.............my husband........I appreciate the way he takes care of us......working hard, taking care of the finances.....doing our taxes. Driving the kids when I need help.
And, our great and excellent local charter school. A few weeks ago, there was an "open house" with the WASC.....the accreditation people. We have great teachers and lots of great parents. And, the director is awesome. She is our facilitator and our friend, too. My kids were excited to set up a table of some of their recent projects and successes. They mingled well with the accreditation folks and the teachers. Anne and a friend came and shared their experiences as recent graduates of the charter school.
From the kitchen.........wow.....it is one of those days where I actually planned ahead AND took care of it! Last night I set out all of the ingredients and this morning I put black bean chili in the crock pot so it will be ready at the end of our day away from home. And, if there is time....I will bake some of Tasha Tudor's cornbread.......mmmm? Have you tried it yet??? It is the best!
Oh, hey look! I found a copy of the recipe on someone's blog! And, she just happens to be a scrapbooker, too! :) I will have to look around her blog. :) It is in Tasha Tudor's cookbook...... which I do not own. I only own a copy of the page with the cornbread. :)
If you do try the recipe.....and I say you all should.....please come back and tell me what you think! If you have had chili at my house........you may have already had it before.
I am wearing........a black knit skirt and a striped cotton shirt.....and leggings, of course.....got to stay warm! Of course!
I am creating........not sure I can think of anything........my next scrapbook? Chaos?
I am going..........to get a good night's sleep...one of these nights!!! I am. Tonight would be a good start since I may be working tomorrow. (so far...I am on call)
I am reading.........75 Year Round Hikes in Northern California by Marc J. Soares......I am SO anxious to "get well" (heal from the asthmatic symptoms) and get out there and explore some of these new places that are not too far away. I am also reading Those Who Love by Irving Stone. This is a re-read........I first read it the week Malachy was born, while I sat around nursing all day. I loved it then.......and I love it now. The local newspaper, too.
I also read in a day.....Bloomability by Sharon Creech I cannot vouch for any of her other novels......but for a modern day junior novel....this was kind of fun. Since the main character is an American who ends up going to school in Switzerland....I borrowed it from the library. Matthew read it, too and did not mind it.......I am going to have the girls read it also. Do not take this as a direct recommendation. If you ever think you want your kid to read it....just read it first to see if it matches what you want your kids to read. I probably would not have handed it Anne at 13...but the other girls are "older" than Anne at 13 and more "exposed" to the world....and it is sweet. I think they will enjoy it enough. The setting is in the part of Switzerland that Matthew is going to...and possibly the same town area. Oh, and I am reading The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Jester aloud to the boys while I walk on the treadmill. It is word and number fun......I loved it when I was in 5th Grade. I won it in Mrs. Tansy's class.......one of my favorite teachers.......she loved literature.
I am hoping.........the remedy the homeopathic nurse practitioner found for me cures these asthmatic symptoms. I took it last Sunday/Monday.....so far, no improvements.....but no adverse effects either.....I was scared after last summer! Constitutional remedies sometimes need some time...but at least I have something on board! I feel more peace about when I feel like I cannot breathe.
I am hearing.........LOTS of conversation going on......it sounds like a ski lodge!
I am wondering........how I am going to accomplish so much in so little time. Can Matthew really get his “to-do” list done???? Around the house.........well, I got us cleaned up enough that I am trying to maintain….....before I can truly declutter and paint and all of that….I am wondering if June may be a good time for starting that??? :) As for my clutter spot......I finally cleared my dresser off…..and now, I need to do so again……..sigh.
The younger girls and I have it all planned out......once Matthew and Anne are gone.....their stuff will be gone, too...as well as all of the busy-ness their age brings to our family......and we will purge and organize the entire house. Do you think it will take years??? :) And, now that we know they will both be here through early/mid August.....I am going to get started in June! I do not want until August to get going on Operation DeClutter.
Now Showing………..we just finished the HBO John Adams miniseries, borrowed from Netflix. My opinion follows below. We also have watched two renditions of Mozart’s “The Magic Flute”.........this was his last opera. I also saw “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” which I was surprised to find was well-made......I will not share it with my kids because of the "adult" themes.......but it SO resembled my growing up time that I could really appreciate these girls and their struggles....oh, and I like the way they handle the fact of one losing her innocence: "It was just as wonderful as I thought it would be......so, why do I feel so empty." "The Gazebo” with Glenn Ford & Debbie Reynolds…1958……..VERY funny! And, one of our family’s favorites! It is the play the kids are performing this spring......with Anne as the director and Matthew in the lead. Their last big hurrah. We also watched a couple of very old musicals for an assignment the kids had in voice class: New Moon and The Merry Widow both starring Jeanette MacDonald. In The Merry Widow you can also find a debonair Maurice Chevalier. And Nelson Eddy is in New Moon. Both musicals were sweet and funny. Clare.....if you have not yet seen these......I think you will love them!
I was not thrilled with the miniseries. I hated this portrayal of John Adams. They spent so much effort on so many negative aspects of his life......when there were so many good and amazing things that he accomplished. Yes, I know he was generally considered "unliked and obnoxious"...I have seen "1776" the musical, often enough to know that. :) But...he was a wonderful thinker...a wonderful writer......a loved husband.....and yes, he made some mistakes......including in his parenting......but, can we give the guy a break all these years later? I think I would rather watch "An American Experience" about John than this. So, there you have, my thoughts.......well, only some of them, for what they are worth. Oh, and my kids aged 7, 12, 13, 16, and 18 were unhappy with this movie as well......and they LOVE historical movies. The 18 yo quit watching after three episodes. And we only finished because we wanted to finish what we had started. And, it is NOT for all ages.....there are a few scenes we had to fast forward through or look away.
In the schoolroom......... For the three youngers: chicken-egg life cycle…..thought we would re-do a study we did 6 years ago……since we are set to get new chickens. We also have been reading LOTS of books about chickens are "starring" chickens. Listening and learning about Mozart. The last time I did a formal study of Mozart…...these three were too young, or not born yet, to appreciate. Beethoven next? Bach? Bach it is! We are listening to old copies of Classical Kids that Anne & Matthew enjoyed way.back.when.......supplementing with library books....and Netflix......and five Mozart CDs in the stereo at all times. Math moves forward for all........looks like the two younger girls are going to take up sewing with Patty. Maddelyn starts next week. And, whatever else we are doing...but I do not feel like writing right now. :)
One of my favorite things.........being up early in the morning...all alone....watching the sun rise. Too bad I feel like falling asleep by ten am. :/
Signs of the seasons......warmer days in the forecast. Buds on trees. More bird noise every morning. No fire tonight.
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...........
Friday.........Either I will be on call......or I will be working.
Saturday......Still trying to decide. I think there will be some skiing going on.....with Marty, too........as the season winds up in a few weeks.
Sunday.........Mass & potluck.......Sarah & Matthew are working with some other homeschoolers making a WWII movie. Anne has to work at the college for a show.
Monday ........, piano for three middle kids, voice at college for three, play rehearsal, baseball for Garrett....now that the practice season has started today. Yes, I will now be MORE busy. Oh and I am taking Garrett & Malachy and a couple of Maria's kids to see a acrobatic/juggling show at the college.
Tuesday........I am scheduled to work.
Wednesday.......see Monday...but no piano or show. I have to be at work at 7am for a mock crash c-section code........ugh.
Thursday..........violin for Maddelyn........take a ski day?
Special prayer requests on my mind this week.......for the play the kids are doing......for Sabine's little Michaelman.....for a serious issue that desperately needs resolving........for special private intentions. In thanksgiving for my friend Todd to find a job!
St. Gerard's List..........all new list as the following have all delivered healthy babies and all is well:
Stacy, Sherry, Lissa, Alice, Bridget, Gloria (a different one!) That's boy, girl, boy, boy, girl, boy.
New moms due: local friends, Louise, Victoria & Tonia, who is a co-worker and the only Catholic I know at work besides one doctor.....kind of funny in a Catholic hospital.....oh, I guess the sisters are Catholic, too. :) And, then, my other friends who live somewhere else: Erica & Suzanne, Gloria's sister. All but Tonia are over 40...I think that is cool.
I am currently scrapbooking...........I got a bunch done over Christmas vacation......scrapping at my dad's and with my friend Su........and at least once a month a good four hour stretch. I have caught up all the way to Anne's birth....which means, I am now only 20 years and 6 months behind.
Here is picture thought I am sharing........
This is me at age 4 or 5 years.
I feel like I may have posted it before...but I cannot remember and I am not going to check.
Have a blessed day!
Love, Chari
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
"Born Outside a Medical Facility"
So, I was a good mom and we took care of Matthew's passport in a timely manner, online so it was typed nicely.......and we mailed it the next morning, in January, on our way to go to the Bay Area for his Rotary Youth Exchange interview. The website said it would be about three weeks.
Three weeks rolled around, and there was an envelope from the State Department. "It's here!" I thought.
WRONG.
It was from the State Dept.....but it was a letter. Not a passport.
And, paraphrasing, here is what the letter said:
Due to the fact that you born outside of a medical facility, we require further information to prove you are indeed a citizen of the US.
Sheesh.
So, if you are born at home, in a county in a state of the US......and have a birth certificate to prove it.......it is not enough? The birth certificate is the same as everyone else's in this county. And, even though the said birth certificate and the passport paperwork state that your parents were born in Kentucky and California, they still cannot be sure you are a US citizen???
Come on......
So, in the same letter, they asked for a combination of original documents to further prove our case.
Here were the choices:
Vaccination record......shoot, we don't vaccinate. So, no proof here.
Early school records.......aw, man.......we homeschool.....this will not work.
Medical records from the first year of life.........well, we do not "do" doctors unless we truly need them.....so, while I did take him in at two weeks for a breathing issue........it was the only visit that year.......and, wouldn't you know, after 18 years.........they shredded it a very.long.time.ago.
Alien registration cards of the parents........we obviously cannot provide these.
Border crossing cards for parents........see one above.
That left only one piece of paper we could provide......
Church record with date & place of birth..........
PHEW!!!
Matthew was baptized at two weeks of age......so, we had ONE piece of proof.
But, of course, they wanted a combination of proof.
Since we belonged to a local charter school.......I was able to find the earliest form I could find.........and we sent that also, though it was by no means, an early school record.
I also sent a letter requesting information about why the original application and birth certificate were not enough......but they have not responded to my letter, though they have returned all of our original documents.....and......finally......sent the ...........
PASSPORT!!!
YES!
And, later I realized something funny.......and this is SO a generalization, so don't be offended, but, the majority of...
homebirthing, non-vaccinating, homeschooling, doctor-avoiding folks I know...usually do not go to church...and therefore would not even have a church record. Golly!
So, now....I am guessing it is time to update on Matthew's plans for the near future......but, that will have to take another blog post. And, you know how slow I am about that. :)
Have a lovely day!
I am going to do the best I can to have a lovely day.......what with back-to-back chauffeuring all.the.day.long!
First I am sitting here waiting for Maddelyn to get out of her music fundamentals class......and then I rush home, have lunch, and take Matthew & Sarah for dentist appts in the town two towns north of us.....and then I rush Matthew back to German class..........go home........go back and get him....and then rush off to teach childbirth classes.......followed by at least one more hour of work on the computer for work. Can I just say: I just want to stay home???
BYE!
Love, Chari
Three weeks rolled around, and there was an envelope from the State Department. "It's here!" I thought.
WRONG.
It was from the State Dept.....but it was a letter. Not a passport.
And, paraphrasing, here is what the letter said:
Due to the fact that you born outside of a medical facility, we require further information to prove you are indeed a citizen of the US.
Sheesh.
So, if you are born at home, in a county in a state of the US......and have a birth certificate to prove it.......it is not enough? The birth certificate is the same as everyone else's in this county. And, even though the said birth certificate and the passport paperwork state that your parents were born in Kentucky and California, they still cannot be sure you are a US citizen???
Come on......
So, in the same letter, they asked for a combination of original documents to further prove our case.
Here were the choices:
Vaccination record......shoot, we don't vaccinate. So, no proof here.
Early school records.......aw, man.......we homeschool.....this will not work.
Medical records from the first year of life.........well, we do not "do" doctors unless we truly need them.....so, while I did take him in at two weeks for a breathing issue........it was the only visit that year.......and, wouldn't you know, after 18 years.........they shredded it a very.long.time.ago.
Alien registration cards of the parents........we obviously cannot provide these.
Border crossing cards for parents........see one above.
That left only one piece of paper we could provide......
Church record with date & place of birth..........
PHEW!!!
Matthew was baptized at two weeks of age......so, we had ONE piece of proof.
But, of course, they wanted a combination of proof.
Since we belonged to a local charter school.......I was able to find the earliest form I could find.........and we sent that also, though it was by no means, an early school record.
I also sent a letter requesting information about why the original application and birth certificate were not enough......but they have not responded to my letter, though they have returned all of our original documents.....and......finally......sent the ...........
PASSPORT!!!
YES!
And, later I realized something funny.......and this is SO a generalization, so don't be offended, but, the majority of...
homebirthing, non-vaccinating, homeschooling, doctor-avoiding folks I know...usually do not go to church...and therefore would not even have a church record. Golly!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
So, now....I am guessing it is time to update on Matthew's plans for the near future......but, that will have to take another blog post. And, you know how slow I am about that. :)
Have a lovely day!
I am going to do the best I can to have a lovely day.......what with back-to-back chauffeuring all.the.day.long!
First I am sitting here waiting for Maddelyn to get out of her music fundamentals class......and then I rush home, have lunch, and take Matthew & Sarah for dentist appts in the town two towns north of us.....and then I rush Matthew back to German class..........go home........go back and get him....and then rush off to teach childbirth classes.......followed by at least one more hour of work on the computer for work. Can I just say: I just want to stay home???
BYE!
Love, Chari
Monday, March 23, 2009
Haven Heartbeats
I suppose I could actually do a daybook today......being up so early.......but I doubt I have time for that right now.
Last night I took the first dose of the constitutional remedy that my new homeopathic practitioner prescribed. This morning I took the second dose. Please pray this is enough to help heal my lungs.
I lay awake from about 5am to 6:45am, when I finally got out of bed. My mind was racing and racing and racing....mostly with Matthew's TO-DO List over the next few months, especially for April....and then I moved on to Maddelyn's list. Usually when I awaken this early and just lay there.....my mind is peaceful....and often I hear God talking to me. This morning was unusual....and slightly stressful. I wondered if it was the remedy causing this...and am reminded to keep a journal of any changes, so I can report my progress, or lack of, to the practitioner.
I finally got up.......found a few coals in the woodstove and threw a log on, to take the morning chill away. I took a few photos of the sliver of the moon with my new camera, to see what it could do. I have it set on the sunrise/sunset setting....awaiting the sunrise.......almost here...but it does not look to be brilliant. Always another morning, I suppose. Oh, as I was snapping away at the moon.....a pair of sandhill cranes flew overhead, and into my viewfinder....but the photo is a bit blurry. I love sandhill cranes...they are my favorite bird, I think. :)
Yesterday morning, we awakened to snow on the ground.....then we had sun for about 6 hours....and then the clouds and snow came back. It was dusk.....and the view from my window was like being on the inside of a snow globe.
The next few weeks....shall I make that months?...are so busy.....sigh....and then......we will have a "new" normal.......
Here comes the sun....it is spectacular, of course...but not photo-spectacular. Yet. I am just so happy to see the sun!!!
Garrett was so pleased to receive his Star Wars Lego sets for his birthday! He had his heart set on ONE set...and if I had been the one shopping, that is all he would have got. But....I sent his father to find it....who is not used to this kind of shopping...and, he took his time, did his research and brought Garrett home, not one, but FIVE different sets! Needless to say, Garrett is pleased as punch........and Malachy is not too far behind.
These is a funny smell in here......almost like yeast bread rising.......I am thinking it is those overripe bananas. Better make them into a protein shake for Marty, if it is not too late! Though...now I cannot stop thinking of fresh baked bread.....I am not sure I have time to do that today........but, who knows...
I am reading an old favorite book: THOSE WHO LOVE by Irving Stone. It is the John Adams story....from Abigail's point of view. I read it the week Malachy was born....and have been thinking about reading it again for a few years. I am reading THE PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH by Norton Juster aloud to the little boys, when I am on the treadmill. I first read this to myself back when I was 12 years old.........I got the book from Mrs. Tansy, one of my three fifth grade teachers......she was so wonderful! I loved the book then...I love it more now. There are so many plays on words and word phrases that I may actually understand better now. The boys are loving it......but I am sure some of the word humor is over their 12 yo and 7 yo heads.
I finally got Malachy's First Holy Communion notebook started. He loves doing this kind of thing. Gloria also got hers started for her girls, too, while they were here last week. They will be back up in less than two weeks, to stay at our house while John has "boys' ski weekend." We look forward to seeing them.......even though Marty, Matthew and I will have to go down to Sacramento area for a whole day of Rotary Youth Exchange preparation. Right now Malachy is working on the second page, doing copywork of The Apostles' Creed. I thought he would balk at such long copywork...but he sat down amidst friends visiting and got it started. I will have him work on it some more today....probably while I am on the treadmill.
Charlotte, 3 & Clementine, 6
Gloria & John's youngest girls
Almost time to wake everyone.........so hard to do......but after all of my racing thoughts this morning.......they need to get their lives going as of today!!! :)
I pray I can make it cheerfully through my day, with my shortened sleep!
Have a blessed day!
Love,
Chari
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