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RMGS ~ Hospitality & Love of God ~ Sewing

by Filed Under: Apron, Love of God, RMGS, RMGS 2012-13, San Bruno, Sewing

Rosa Mystica Girls’s Society met for our second meeting of the 2012-13 Session on First Saturday, Oct. 6, 2012. There were twenty-eight girls in attendance for Mass (as a group) and thirty-two girls for the meeting.

Once again, the girls were divided into six groups; Love of God, Industry, Truthfulness, Humility, Piety, and Obedience.

Lesson:

Our new Chaplain, Father B, visited the girls while they were eating snack. The girls stood-up to greet him. Father excused them and invited them to finish their food. In fact, he insisted that they finish eating before he began his lesson. I think it’s a French thing. 

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Father B’s lesson was on the topic of hospitality and love of God. He spoke about the life of San Bruno, the Benedictine Monks, and the Cartesian monks.

Here are some highlights that I took note of from Father’s talk.

San Bruno, whose feast day we celebrate today (10.6), spent time with the Benedictine Monks. The monk’s role is hospitality, to welcome peosan-bruno_thumb4ple. They will take care of everyone who comes to the door. San Bruno wanted more enclosure. He founded the Cartesian Monks with the approval of San Hugues.

The Cartesians live in a monastery that is divided into small houses. Each Cartesian monk lives in his one bedroom, in solitude. He cannot speak all his life. He eats in his room. He prays in solitude. The monk’s life consists solely of work, prayer, and study. It is the most difficult life.

It is said that there are many saints in the Cartesian monasteries that no one knows, only God. They desire to be in the Sacred Heart of Jesus. They have a profound humility. In fact, a Cartesian will never name himself as author of a book. His work will only state that it was authored by a Cartesian Monk. Few monks have been canonized because of their humility to remain unknown.

~~~

Why did His heart re-start after three days (Resurrection)? HE LOVES US! Every heartbeat of the Lord is for us, every single one of us!

Is the heart of Jesus still beating today? Yes, because He loves us.

Only one man has listened to the heart of Jesus, who is he? John.

You must take the time to listen to your heart to understand how is works.

In time of trial or temptation, seek to listen to the heart of Jesus. Say, “I would like to listen to the heart of Jesus.” You will see your heart come down and the temptation will be removed.

Love God as He as loved you. Pray for the Blessed Mother’s intercession.

AN ACT OF LOVE

O my God, I love Thee with my whole heart and above all things, because Thou art the supreme Good, and most worthy of our love. For the love of Thee I will love my neighbor as myself.

Skill:

apron-front-view-v2_thumb2The girls were then given an overview of their sewing project, a simple apron. Each girl was able to select her desired apron combination. PA050440_thumb2

The first group consisted of nineteen girls, ages 9-10. Their aprons were completely prepped for them to begin sewing. Note, the focus of this skill set is to give the girls an introduction to sewing so that they gain interest to continue to learn about the skill.

The other group consisted of nineteen girls, ages 11-13. Those girls were given pre-cut fabric and ties. They were instructed to complete the necessary steps so that they could begin their sewing at next month’s meeting.

Majority of the younger girls had the opportunity to sew at the machine with the guidance of a mom or older sister. Those that were not able to sew will be the first on the sewing machine in November.

The sewing helpers did a wonderful job instructing the girls while allowing them to be an active participant in the sewing process.

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The older girls diligently completed their tasks.

  1. turn ties if needed
  2. iron waist and neck ties
  3. pin ties to top fabric
  4. pin lining to top fabric, enclosing the ties
  5. help one another

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A complete tutorial for this project was included in the girls’ Hospitality Binders.

Name tags were worked on when the main sewing project was completed.

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Handouts:

Agenda for meeting

Prayers:

Hospitality:

Sewing:

Wrap-up:

We began to close the meeting at 11:45pm, thanks to the reminder from Mrs. G – time flies when you’re having fun!

The girls wrapped up their projects and labeled their work so that it could be easily found at the next meeting. Their group areas were tidied. The worker moms did their magic while I closed the meeting with a recap of the day’s lesson and skill.

The girls were informed of the new handouts that were placed in their binders. They were encouraged to complete the related activities to further develop a Love of God, hospitality, and sewing skills.

The question of the day was answered, “Can I take home my apron to work on it?” The answer was, “Yes! You may take home the apron to work on it as long as you follow the directions that were given in class, bring it back the following month, and I have the consent of your mom.”

The girls were also reminded about the upcoming Fall Bake Sale on October 21 – sign-up today!

The meeting closed with the Angelus.

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Our Lady of the Mystical Rose, pray for us!

~~~

Thank you to all the moms and girls who gave a hand with instruction and after the meeting for clean-up. We appreciate your help! Things were a bit hectic but it turned out great. We especially appreciate all the help from the moms sharing their skills on the sewing machine. Our goal is to assist the girls in following the complete directions (without deviation) in the skill set while being as hands-off as possible. It’s a fine dance but you all managed to make it look effortless. Great Job! We hope to see you all again for the next two months while we complete the aprons. ALL FOR!

Day 6: Birth Story ~ 31 Days of reflections for a pregnant mama

by Filed Under: 31 Days, Baby, Birth plan, Birth Story, Dragonfly, Pregnancy

Lena & Gary – May 2010

BABY ENZOglf birth

This is a bit personal and I usually don’t share such a thing but I’m learning to become an open book – ALL FOR!

Below is my birth story for Enzo, AKA Dragonfly.  He was my eighth pregnancy and fifth (living) baby.  He was also my first labor after my very necessary c-section for Papi.  I opted to have Enzo in the hospital because despite my greatest efforts, I could not afford the additional costs of a midwife and homebirth.  I doubt I would have opted for the hospital birth if I didn’t have the excellent care of the assistant chief of staff at a hospital with an exceptional model of care for pregnant mamas.   

I came into this birth knowing exactly what I wanted and needed to have a successful labor.  It was spelled out for the entire medical staff in my very lengthy and detailed birth plan.  The Good Lord gave me the graces to be at complete peace prior to going into full labor.

This is the story of my 24+ hour labor and delivery that I refer to as my home birth in the hospital.

~~~

Thursday, May 13

It was a long labor that started after a “calm” that scared me on Thursday, May 13. I was out trying to run errands in my last effort to be active. Enzo decided to give me a reprieve before my long labor to come. His movement for the day was slowed to the point that I became nervous and decided to go into L & D to be checked. Needless to say, he was fine.

Friday, May 14

Slow irregular contractions started to take wave on Friday evening. This is typical for me. I knew it was the start of labor for me but still remained poised because I anticipated my normal, long labor to follow. The contractions picked up and were consistent throughout the evening but did not persist. I was able to find good quality rest time. Gary stood home to help with the kids.

Saturday, May 15

Saturday rolled around and my contractions started to become more regular but were still mild. Once again, I remained poised. I stood upstairs worked through each contraction and rested when able. I had wondmom at home in laborerful coaches and company from kids who managed to sneak by Gary throughout the day to get to me. Papi helped me out with my birthing ball exercises, Sweetie messaged me when needed, Sparkles and Rose did whatever was asked. I had a great team! Still, I knew I had a ways to go but did leave hope that my water would break soon.

My contractions intensified Saturday evening and I tried different pain management techniques with Gary within my home so as to prepare prior to the hospital visit. I didn’t want to be stuck without some absolute options of ways to soothe me (this labor) while having no other true support team once I got to the hospital. We finalized the optimal positions/exercises for me using the birth ball. Gary mastered his massage technique and I experimented with the shower and tub. It was concluded that the birthing pool would be a must for me again this time around.

Sunday, May 16

I knew I was not anywhere near the point of delivery but had progressed in labor. My contractions were strong enough and close enough to get me to consider making the trip to the hospital. I would have loved to stay home longer but wasn’t sure how I would do in a 1 hr car ride with more intense contractions.

5 am

Gary and I decided it would be best to go to the hospital while we were at this point in labor. We were both calm and would be able to set up at the hospital without being rushed.

Gary drove me to the hospital after Papa arrived for the kids at 6:00 am. I sat in the back of the van on my exercise ball and ate my breakfast between contractions. I continued my hydration regime that I started on Saturday. I wanted to be sure that I did not become dehydrated.

7am

I was assessed and given a room. All the amenities were set up since I was dilated to sbaby g birth may 15-mmm at hospital in labor may 16ix and it was baby number five for me. The nurses and midwife thought that I would be having a baby soon. I reassured them that I have long labors and continued to labor on my own with Gary.

The entire medical staff at the hospital was more than accommodating to my wishes spelled out in my rather lengthy birth plan. I was encouraged to turn in my detailed birth plan by a midwife that I met about a week prior. She reassured me that it would be read and scanned into the system and followed as closely as possible. She also sought approval from another Head of the Department. This approval was placed in my record. I’m sure all of these facts helped me to get the care I desired.jm,

12 am

I continued to practice my birthing exercises with Gary throughout the morning in the hospital. I tried out the shower a couple of times. Sunday afternoon rolled around and I knew that our precious baby would not be coming anytime soon. Everything was going smoothly and slow. I was able to eat and drink through my labor as I wished. I did not pass any opportunities. Gary went out around 4pm to pick up a pizza and more Gatorade. I rested on my back in bed for the first timmom on ball restin may 16 v2e in several months. We ate dinner together and teased that this was turning out to be a great vacation.

My “vacation” did not last long. My contractions began to pick up again. I refocused and went back to work. Slow and steady was the tempo. My water did not break until 1 am on Monday morning. By that time I had already had three nurses change shift and two midwives. The midwife on duty diligently announced that I could start pushing. I reassured her that I did not work that way, typically I would have four-six more hours of labor. She did not seem too interested in my own assessment but left me to it.

Monday, May 17

1 am

Slow and steadied, I continued. The midwife was scheduled to change shift soon and she made another appearance before leaving. Smay 16-18 birth 003he reiterated that I could start pushing and if things did not progress that we could talk about other options. I was not at all interested in other options and planned to avoid any further discussions at all costs.

I began what would be my longest battle with pushing. Despite my better judgment, I went for it and started pushing with my contractions at 3 am – 5 am. Needless to say, there was no progress. I knew that I was not cooperating with my body and allowing my contractions to do their job, however slow that may have been.

It became intense and my back labor was like no other. I spent most of my time in the shower but longed for a break from the back pain. I even managed to place a phone call to a doula (who so kindly offered me her free phone service). I called to inquire if there was a magical way not to have such intense back labor. She reiterated all the techniques that we were already trying. I had become physically drained and emotionally defeated. Not to mention, Gary was out like a log. He was operating on two hours of sleep.

5 am

It was about 5 am and I sat on the bed with Gary at my side. We were both exhausted and it was well written on our faces. The new shift of nurses arrived. My nurse, Shawna, walked in and immediately began to put me at ease. She reassured me that I may 16-18 birth 006could take a break to gain a much needed rest. However, I was not completely sold. I was ready for baby Enzo to be out!

She allowed me to continue as I desired while staying by our side. She saw me through a series of contractions and witnessed my complete exhaustion first hand. She offered me another option, to be checked for dilation. She stated that if I were ready I could continue to push and if not, that I should get some rest. It turned out that I was at nine with some cervix left. Whether this was a result of pushing unnecessarily or just my body taking its sweet time, I do not know. Whatever the cause, I was due for a rest. No more pushing!

My contractions and hard back labor continued but I was able to withstand them and embrace the work that my body was doing. I was no longer being counterproductive. This was difficult for me because the previous midwife had me so defeated that I began second guessing my body. That’s where Shawna came in. She walked me through my meditations and breathing – reassuring me the entire way that my body was doing its job and baby Enzo would be here shortly.

12:30 pm

I did not want her to leave! She was such a tremendous help to both Gary and I. She left on break at about 12:30. At which point I decided that I was ready to have baby Enzo and so I decided to speed things up naturally for myself – a shower always helps me get contractions going. I made Shawna promise that she would come back it I called her.

Within 30 minutes in the shower I was ready to push. Once again, I began to double guess my body due to the previous long episode of pushing. Where was Shawna? I pulled the emergency cord in the shower and informed the nurse’s station that I needed Shawna. In ran the new midwife on duty.

She began to introduce herself to me and I interrupted her to inform her that I knew who she was but I wanted Shawna. The midwife was not too happy with this request. "What can I help you with," she persisted. I told her, "I’m no longer sure if I’m ready to push or just experiencing pressure.” She offered to check and I hesitantly agreed. She informed me that in fact I was completely dilated and ready to go. She then urged me to get out of the shower. At which point I told her that I would stay in the shower until Shawna got back on watch. The midwife left and within seconds, guess who showed up… Shawna. She was beckoned from her break.

I began to push just as she came in to assess me. I could hear the midwife urging me to make it to the bed. I informed her that baby Enzo’s head was already out and that I would not be making it anywhere. She managed to have Shawna and Gary help me walk to the bed while I postponed pushing.

1:11 pm

Baby Enzo was born shortly after another series of exchanges of the midwife’s desires vs. my own desires.

He gave a brief scare. The cord was wrapped tightly around his neck, his face was blue, and he was not breathing. He was immediately taken to the infmay 16-18 birth 030ant bed for treatment. Gary kept watch on him while I lay there praying for for the intercession of the Blessed Mother to accept God’s will.

“We have a heart beat……..he’s breathing……” Praise be to God!  Enzo was just fine. He made his way to me and began to nurse.

Monday, May 24

dad skin to skinBaby Enzo is a big boy with a sweet disposition. He reminds me of his daddy in many ways. His sisters can’t get enough of him and his brother constantly keeps guard of him. Thank you all for your prayers and well wishes. DEO GATIAS

“Enzo” to mom & “Gio” to dad

 

 

 

~~~

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Giorgio Lorenzo

May 17, 2010 ~ 1:11pm

9.14 lbs ~ 20.5 in

 

In His Joy,

~~~

This is day 6 of my pregnancy reflections. You can find the other posts of my 31 Days here.

Birth Story Link-up

Days 5: Placenta Brain ~ 31 Days of reflections from a pregnant mama

by Filed Under: 31 Days, Diet, Health, Pregnancy 1 Comment

…something that affects many women, both during and after pregnancy. It manifests itself as simple forgetfulness, loss of memory, and other minor problems.  ~ pregnanacyabout.com

~~~placenta brain v2

I was pregnant with my fourth child when I heard the term, Placenta Brain.  There I sat in my midwife’s home/office attempting to share a complete thought but had to apologize over and over for my forgetfulness.  She excused my memory loss as placenta brain.  I owned it!

My placenta brain hasn’t quite kicked in this time around.  There are lapses but overall my brain has not been taken over.  I’m giving thanks for His grace at this moment and for His grace to have led me to a healthier way of eating.  There is no doubt in my mind that I have avoided many “pregnancy related” symptoms due to my diet going into this pregnancy.  No sugars and grains seems to be key for me.  Don’t get me wrong, I haven’t been perfect.  In fact, I’m just getting over my normal pregnancy meat aversion.  The difference this time around is that it only lasted a few months instead of the whole pregnancy. 

Another purge, is in order.  I‘ll get right to it, after my late night ice-cream tonight.  Winking smile

My wackiest moment was post pregnancy.  I frantically called for my little one.  I beckoned the help of everyone within reach to search for my baby.  Rose stared at me with disbelief.  I ordered her to go find her sis.  She hesitantly replied, “Uhh, Mom…. Sparkles is with you!”  I looked down to confirm her observation, I was in fact nursing Sparkles.  Placenta brain is the real thing!

Have you ever experienced placenta brain? If so, what’s the wackiest thing that you have done during your altered state?

In His Joy,

~~~

This is day 5 of my pregnancy reflections. You can find the other posts of my 31 Days here.

31 Days of reflections from a pregnant mama ~ complete series

by Filed Under: 31 Days, Pregnancy

31 Days of reflections from a pregnant mama - JOYfilledfamily

Join me in a 31 days series as we reflect on the thoughts and issues that are raised in the mind of a pregnant mama.

In His Joy,

P.S.  The pic of the pregnant mama was created at DesignHerGals.com, a place to create personalized stationary.  The pregnant mama is my ideal version of me during pregnancy.  I gave thanks that the site didn’t offer a preg option for their plus size gals.  I’ve decided to enjoy this version of me – ALL FOR!

Day 4: Gender Reveal ~ 31 Days of reflections from a pregnant mama

by Filed Under: 31 Days, Baby, Pregnancy

This is day 4 of my pregnancy reflections. You can find the other posts of my 31 Days here.

~~~

Do you like to find out the gender of your baby before your bPA040435aby is born?  I have mixed feelings on the issue.  My preference seems to change with each baby.  Ultimately, I would opt to wait until birth.  Dad and the kids feel the opposite, they rather find out sooner than later. 

I have made a precedent that we won’t find out if a sonogram is not needed.  You see, I don’t follow the mainstream model of care – I only opt for what is necessary.  I will get a sonogram if it is ordered by my midwife or doctor (with good reason).  In which case, we find out the sex of the baby.  No sonogram needed, we wait until birth.

I must say that I have enjoyed the times that I’ve found out the sex of the baby early on in pregnancy.  I enjoy refereeing to the baby by name.  Referring to the baby by name is especially helpful to me during my passion long, non-medicated labors.  I feel a closer connection.

There is always an elation when I hear Dad announce what the baby is at the moment of birth, regardless if it is a complete surprise or I know ahead of time.  It is always as though it were the first time hearing the news.

This time around I was scheduled for a routine ultrasound without much need expressed by the doctor.  I went along with the appointment because I felt some concern about the location of placenta, lack of fetal movement, and difficulty finding the heartbeat.  The appointment was scheduled for me at 20 weeks and 3 days.  I was almost certain that the sex of the baby would be revealed.

All my kids waited five long months in great anticipation.  Each one had their vote of gender.  I was surprised by Papi’s persistent preference – a girl.  Papi insisted that it should be a girl, no matter how many times we emphasized our thankfulness for whatever God gives us.

The appointment was scheduled in the early morning.  Dad was not able to return home with me.  I pulled up in the driveway and the van was mobbed by the littles before I could even put it into park.  They all shouted, “What is it, what is it?”  I shrugged, “I can’t tell until Dad gets home.”  That’s right, they had to wait an agonizing four hours.

I had hopes for a cute reveal but couldn’t pull it off since all the stores I stopped out were out of helium.  I took the lazy  easy road and purchased cookies that would give away the gender.

The kids waited with even more anticipation than before.

Here’s the reveal.

 

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In His JOY,

Day 3: Potty Training ~ 31 Days of reflections from a pregnant mama

by Filed Under: 31 Days, Potty Training, Pregnancy

This is day 3 of my pregnancy reflections. You can find the other posts of my 31 Days here.
~~~

What does potty training have to do with pregnancy?  Everything, in my home.  In fact, pregnancy is my number one motivator to either start or wrap up the potty training business for the littlest one in the house.  This time around was no different. 
Dragonfly showed signs of readiness right before he turned two but I didn’t have the energy to take him any further.  I kept the thought of potty training on my long to do list.  That is until I found out I was pregnant.  I Dragonfly showing intetrest of the potty at 22 mos.can’t ever imagine having two children in diapers at the same time.  Nor would I have the stamina to potty train with a new born in tote.  Needless to say, potty training soon became a top priority for the entire family.
I believe the best time to start potty training is when you’re ready and the child has shown signs of interest/readiness.  There is no magical number and I would never advise a mom to rush it or make her feel like a failure for waiting too long.
Having said that, my children are usually at the age of two and have already shown signs of readiness when I decide to start potty training . Rose was an exceptional case. She decided that she was a big girl at age 1.5 and started using the potty on her own. Some of those signs include, not liking the feel of a wet diaper, signaling that they’re about to go potty, and consistently waking up with a dry diaper after bed time. The last one is key for me, I figure if they can sleep without going potty, they can learn to control it at other times of the day.
Here are my key tips that have helped me successfully potty train* four children within 2 weeks. 

  • Make it a family affair
  • Become all or nothing
  • Use a timer
  • Prepare for accidents
  • Use positive peer sibling pressure
  • Reward with a sweet treat (Yes, bribe the child)

*This does not mean that you will be permanently accident free. I declare potty training success when the child can tell you that he has to go potty before an accident and when the number of incidents of potty in the potty far outweigh potty elsewhere.
Make it a family affair
That’s right, the ENTIRE family.  Potty training in my home is a family affair.  It’s been that way since I had only one child.  Pretty much everything in my home is a family affair – it’s what works for us.  It helps that we homeschool and Dad works out of the house.  I don’t think that I would have the same success with potty training if Dad and the siblings didn’gio - officially potty trainedt commit to helping.   
Each member for the family must take on a task.
Become all or nothing
Potty training in my home is all or nothing.  I don’t use diapers or pull-ups during the day while at home.  I will occasionally use pull-ups when traveling but I always put underwear over the pull-up.  That leaves the little one in their birthday suite for majority of the day.  I’m not opposed to pull-ups or even a diaper during bed time but that’s usually not needed for us since I wait to potty train until the child can go through the night with a clean diaper.  Also, most of my kids didn’t like the feel of diapers once they would go the whole day without one. 
Another tip is to limit the supply of diapers in the house so that there are no temptations to take the easy road and diaper – I speak from experience.
Timer
The timetimerr is another key tool for potty training, all training in my home for that matter.  My mother used it when I was young and I’ve used it in my home since Rose was a baby.  It serves as a reminder for child and parent.  It also helps the child get a grasp on time.  More importantly, the timer can’t be argued with! 
I start potty training with the timer set for smaller increments of time, five-eight minutes.  I take the child to the restroom at the beep of the timer.  I say something like, “It’s time to go potty – yeah.” or, “Let’s go potty.”  I never ask the child if he has to go potty, at least not at this stage in the game.
I will take the child potty when I see the potty sign coming on.  Every child has one.  It’s been different for each of my children but it’s always been one of the following:

  • facial expression
  • grabbing at private area
  • retreating to a private place

The time increments of the timer should increase when you see improvements in the child’s reception of potty training, to the point when the child signals you that he has to go potty.  At which point, the timer can be done away.
It is helpful to reintroduce the timer if there is a regression during potty training.
Family affair – I usually put a dependable child on timer duty.  That child serves as my secondary reminder.  The nearest sibling or parent must take the child potty when the timer rings or spots a potty sign.  Even the child who is two years older can guide the potty training child to the restroom and call for help.
Prepare for accidents
I always tease that I don’t need a puppy when I have a child potty training.  That’s right, it’s inevitable, accidents will happen.  Being prepared for the accident is key.  Have the necessary clean-up supplies on hand in a easy to reach spot.  I prefer a caddy or basket that even the smallest child can fetch when needed. 
I almost always have the potty training child help with clean-up.  Each of my kids would throw away their own diaper when old enough to walk, I see this as being no different. 
Family affair – The rule is, you’re responsible to help with clean-up if the accident happens in your vicinity or on your watch.  This rule applies to everyone in the home.  It keeps us accountable and gives us an incentive to be tuned into the little leak machine potty training child.
Use positive peer sibling pressure
The siblings are generally each other’s number one fans, with the little ones idolizing the older ones.  I hone in on this fact during potty training time.  All the siblings must cheer and root for the potty training child.  I’m talking in a vocal way.  They must shout songs of praise, clap, cheer, and offer what other fun noise that they like to make in celebration.  Simple words of praise go a long way for the little one.

  • Good job brother!
  • YEAAAAAAAA Dragonfly!
  • WHOOT WHOOT!

Hugs and kisses come without encouragement.
Reward with a sweet treat (Yes, bribe the child.)
I’m not afraid to say it, I use bribery when it comes to potty training.  I guess I could call it “positive reinforcement” if I were trying to be PC.  Bribery, it is!
I buy a special treat that is not stocked in the home on a regular basis, something that suits the child’s preference.  In the past it’s beenYumEarth_Naturals_Sour_Beans_Snack_Pack_-_front either M&Ms or Jelly Belly candies.  This time around I struggled a bit since we have gone clean with our diet.  In the end, I decided that I couldn’t deprive my little guy of this right of passage in my home – candy for going potty. 
The treats of choice this time around were Sour Beans, Gummy Bears, and Lollipops.  All the treats are made by Yummy Earth.  They’re organic and gluten free. 
Here’s how it works.  The child goes potty.  It most be a legitimate use of the potty not just a sight seeing visit or test drive.
Once the potty business is done, I (or whoever took him potty) parades him to the treat area.  All the siblings are rallied, “Come on….., Dragonfly went potty in the potty!”  They all run in with shouts of joy, “WHOOT WHOOT! Potty in the potty, potty in the potty! YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH Dragonfly!”
The siblings line up so that the potty training child can pass out his treats – one for each sibling.  But before the sibling can receive the treat, he must give another sign or shout of praise to the successful potty trainer.  The potty training child can enjoy his treat once his goodies have been distributed.
The lollipops are used for #2, “poo-poo on the potty!”  The same steps above are followed.
Treating all the siblings to this treat is key.  Everyone has something to look forward to when a little one starts potty training in the home.  It helps them to become invested in the success of their sibling.  Even the seventeen year old and the dog get in on the action!
(I hope to dig up a pic of this cute scene of my four children and chocolate lab lined up at the feet of a two year old with candy.)

~~~

I would be happy to answer any questions about what has worked in my home.  Also, I would be delighted to hear your #1 potty training tip.  Leave a comment or drop me an email.

In His JOY,

Day 2: Nesting ~ 31 Days of reflections from a pregnant mama

by Filed Under: 31 Days, Pregnancy

Is it too ealry to start nesting?  That’s right, I’m only fivpelicanneste months along and I have the urge.  More than the urge, I put a plan into action.   Perhaps it’s the fear that I will not have the energy later on in pregnancy or maybe it’s the prompting of the Holy Ghost that some other change is coming.  I believe that it’s a bit of both – change (aside from a new bundle of joy) and an anticipation of decline in energy.  I desire to enjoy the present moment and go where He leads, trusting that He will take care of tomorrow.

As I have made reference to before, my energy is fleeting.  It’s been an ongoing health issue that I’ve been trying to get under control.  Ditching the SAD (Standard American Diet) has tremendously helped in that area.  I found out that I was pregnant just when I was ready to commit to the next step in my health and fitness.  Now, I’m not sure what is pregnancy related and what is part of my pre-existing issue.  Whatever the case may be, He has given me and my family the graces to persevere.

The deep cleaning of the downstairs was completed last week.  It helped that I had invited over another mom.  I played with the idea of meeting her elsewhere to get our work done but I knew that I could use the motivation to get my house in order.  What I didn’t expect was that my cleaning partner, Dad, would have a new schedule that has him gone from morning until 3pm.  Nonetheless, I stuck to a plan, did what I could and offered up the rest.  His grace was sufficient.  I managed to lead the troops to a clean house with limited help from Dad.

Next, I plan to tackle my storage master bedroom.  It’s in need of a major purge.  Not only for the new baby but for a pathway to walk safely.  Once my sanctuary is recreated I will tackle the laundry room, kid’s bedrooms, office, and my paper clutter.  The finale will be the garage.  It’s my hope to have it all done by the end of the month. 

Please pray for this pregnant mama on a mission!

In His JOY,

~~~

This is day 2 of my pregnancy reflections. You can find the other posts of my 31 Days here.

31 Days of reflections from a pregnant mama

by Filed Under: 31 Days, Pregnancy

31 Days of reflections from a pregnant mama - JOYfilledfamily

I knew that I wanted to follow along with the blog craze for October, 31 Days.

What’s 31 Days? Basically anyone can join in, just pick a topic and write about it every day for the month of October–we all come here and link up on October 1st. Think short posts with one point made each day.

~ The Nester

I just didn’t know what I would hone in on – my mind is going in a million directions. Sure, one would say that it’s probably due to the pregnancy hormones but the truth is, it’s my reality in or out of pregnancy.

My first desire was to use the 31 Days as a retreat and share my reflections. My next desire was to share my discernment journey. Another thought was to get my home in order and use the 31 Days as my accountability. There were many more desires that lingered. With all those thoughts, I had an overwhelming urge to do nothing. I resisted the urge and have moved forward – I fight my flesh to be all or nothing.

I will be participating in the 31 Days with my reflections, Reflections from a Pregnant Mom. In other words, I couldn’t narrow it down. I will most likely take inspiration from the other 31 Dayers that I’ll be following. Just to list a few:

My posts my get deep, personal, help me to prepare for the arrival of this new blessing, be random, or not be much of posts at all. Whatever the case may be, I pray that it all glorify God.

You are invited to follow along and leave comments if you so desire. 

Ad Jesum per Mariam,

P.S.  The pic of the pregnant mama was created at DesignHerGals.com, a place to create personalized stationary.  The pregnant mama is my ideal version of me during pregnancy.  I gave thanks that the site didn’t offer a preg option for their plus size gals.  I’ve decided to enjoy this version of me – ALL FOR!

Child Led Learning & A Treat for St. Jogues

by Filed Under: 09 September, 09 September Saints, Dessert, St. Jogues

Learning leads us to all sorts of adventures, sometimes planned but usually they’re stumbled upon. Today was one of those normal days for us, unplanned learning.

The day started with an introduction to the saint(s) of the day – St. Isaac Jogues, John DeBrebeuf, and their Companions. The littles quickly became fascinated by the life of Saint Jogues. The remaining day’s lessons quickly changed focus to that of the St. Jogues. I posted some resources here.

Isaac Jogues was one of the French Jesuits who came from France in the seventeenth century to bring the gift of Baptism and the Faith to the Indians in the New World. It would be hard to find in all the lives of the saints a story more filled with danger, terror and blazing love than that of these Jesuits.

It was snack time before we knew it but no one wanted to stop our discussion about the heroic martyr. We did some more reading about the Indians that St. Jogues evangelized, the Huron Indians. The Hurons were an Iroquois tribe of some thirty-five thousand Indians. We learned, among many interesting facts, that the Huron Indian’s primary food was corn. The corn was often altered with what the Hurons had available to them, meat, fruit, or beans. That gave Sweetie and Sparkle the idea that we should make something out of blueberries. Papi had cake on his mind since he is working on the letter C. Our snack/treat lesson supplement was set, blueberry cake.

Although agriculture was important in the economy of the Huron, it was not the only source of subsistence. Berries, particularly strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries, were plentiful. Fruits were fried for winter use, to be used as preserves for the sick, to give taste to sagmite, and to put into the small cakes that were baked in the ashes. ~ An Ethnography of the Huron Indians, 1615-1649

Sparkles helped me scour online for a gluten-free blueberry cake recipe. We found our inspiration from the one and only, Paula Deen. She shared a delectable treat, Pineapple Blueberry Crunch Cake.


 The girls checked the pantry as I listed the ingredients and Papi prepped the cooking station. We had everything on hand!

Some slight modification were made and the girls went to work. (The boys were sidetracked by an invitation from Papa and Nana to go purchase new shoes.)


Be sure to check Catholic Cuisine if you’re up for making this next year or celebrating St. Jogues and the First American Martyrs Feast day in the NO Calendar, on Oct. 19.
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“My heart tells me that if I have the happiness of being employed in this mission, I shall go never to return; but I shall be happy if Our Lord will complete the sacrifice where He has begun it, and make the little blood I have shed in that land the pledge of what I would give from every vein of my body and my heart. In a word, this people is ‘a bloody spouse to me’—’in my blood have I espoused it to me.’ May our good Master, who has purchased them in His blood, open to them the door of His Gospel, as well as to the four allied nations near them. Adieu, dear Father; pray to Him to unite me inseparably to Him. ~ “ISAAC JOGUES, S.J.”

In His JOY,

St. Isaac Jogues

by Filed Under: 09 September, 09 September Saints, 10 October, 10 October Saints, Jesuit, Martyr, St. Isaac Jogues, St. Jogues

O God, You blessed the first fruits of the faith in the vast expanse of North America by the missionary labors and martyrdom of blessed Isaac, John, and their companions. May the harvest for Christ grow daily more abundant in the whole world through the intercession of these saints. Through our Lord .

martyrs_large1 SAINTS ISAAC JOGUES, JOHN DE BREBEUF, AND THEIR COMPANIONS
Martyrs

[IN ALL DIOCESES OF THE UNITED STATES]

EO Calendar – September 26 ~ NO Calendar – October 19

SAINTS CYPRIAN AND JUSTINA
Martyrs

DOUBLE, SECOND CLASS / RED
These eight French Jesuit missioners, the first canonized saints of the North American continent, labored and died among the most barbaric of red men in the most impenetrable fastnesses of the 17th-century New World. After struggling with unbelievable privations and hardships, they were severely tortured and martyred by the Iroquois Indians between the years 1642 and 1649. Fathers Isaac Jogues and Anthony Daniel and the two lay oblates, John Lalande and Rene Goupil, gave their lives in what is now New York State; Fathers John de Brebeuf, Gabriel Lalemant, Charles Garnier, and Noel Chabanel in central Canada.

~~~

St. Isaac Jogues Patron: Americas; Canada.

Symbols: men dressed in Jesuit black robes with crucifix in hands; IHS is the symbol for the Society of Jesus; red (color for martyrdom); red roses (symbol of martyrdom)

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“We consoled one another at this decree of Divine Providence and kept preparing ourselves for anything that God might ordain.” ~ St. Isaac Jogues

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Resources:isaacjogues

Audio –

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"My confidence is placed in God who does not need our help for accomplishing his designs. Our single endeavor should be to give ourselves to the work and to be faithful to him, and not to spoil his work by our shortcomings."  ~Saint Isaac Jogues

North_American_Martyrs

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