In a year where handmade gifts have made a comeback, my first choice is always to make it personal and crafty. But you don't have to be a crafty person to make these gifts. Most of the work is done for you - if you'd like it to be. We have digital software programs, traditional scrapbooking products and tools, we have storage solutions, a photo printing center and even a variety of frames. We have products that range from quick and easy to skilled and crafty. And I can help you figure it all out...
Not sure what to make? Well, I might have just the thing for you.
Be sure to visit the project center! You can always contact me for help with your specific project, photo preservation questions or anything of that nature. You can order online from anywhere, and it will be shipped to your doorstep in just a week or two! [Order this week to guarantee Christmas Delivery.]
Scrapbooking is one of my favorite hobbies, and it might just become one of yours - that is, if you're not already hooked! :)
According to the rules, I have to post six things that make me really happy ... and pass it on to give six more people a reason to be thankful!
1. I am happy that the Lord showers me with Graces to help me through each day and each trial.
2. I am thankful for my husband who loves me so much, he is always giving of himself and making sure me and the kids are happy before his own happiness. Even if it means sleep depravation!
3. I am happy for the life within me, that reminds me of God's great mysteries and the preciousness of life from as early as conception.
4. I am thankful that we have such a beautiful home in which we foster faith, hope and love.
5. I am happy with my life thus far, even though it has taken quite a few unexpected turns.
6. I am thankful for all my blogger friends who for some reason still read my ramblings, care for me, and encourage me to pray and remind me to simply TRUST in God.
I've been holding onto this magazine for awhile because I really wanted to blog about this fabulous company that caught my eye. Ever heard of Chasing Fireflies?
They have very expensive clothing, toys, furniture, etc. Kind of like Pottery Barn quality. But they are running a 50% off sale on some of the things I had my eye on. I'd try to sew some of them, but I can't find the right fabric or pattern. I am not sure if I'll be buying any of them, but here are some of my favorites!
Cozy Cube School Desk:
Toadstool Chairs & Table Set:
Snowballer:
"If I were a rich [girl]....." -from Fiddler on the Roof
For those who visit this blog before you see my family's blog, I want you to see my newest post on our family blog. I have an announcement to make and we are in need of prayers!
Okay - feeling a little bit better. Watched the movie ELF with the family, vented a bit, and thought more about Christmas! Thought about what I'd like to sing this year with my family.
While searching for old christmas songs for my ipod to lead a sing along, I came across this incredible new music cd by an actress and now christian singer... Kristin Chenoweth.
The big deal was that I wanted the song "Come on ring those bells." Because we have played that every christmas while decorating the tree since I was a little girl, but I no longer have a turntable to play it. When I looked it up as a CD by Evie on ebay and amazon, the current bid was $32 and the buy it price was a minimum of $65. So needless to say, when I could buy this Kristin's CD with the same song and sound - the whole CD "A Lovely Way to Spend Christmas," not a single - for $10, I was thrilled!
FOR TODAY - I am sharing something really real. Most people have a hard time with hearing such raw thoughts from me. If you are not able to handle reading feelings related to depression, this post is not for you. If you are looking to "save" me somehow, this is not why I am writing. Only a miracle from God can save me today.
I have mostly good days, today is just not one of them.
Outside my window... is sunny skies that are decieving. It's really cold out there.
I am thinking... that life is monotonous and inreconciably disheartening. I'm in a reality slump, and wouldn't mind checking out for awhile.
I am thankful for... television and music that can distract me from this lonliness. Right now I am listening to my playlist on my Myspace. The song that gets me the most is "When I see you smile" by Firehouse.
From the learning rooms... there is not a sound, because the kids would rather play today, and I'd rather not.
In the kitchen... you can see piles of dishes undone, an old bowl full of apples that will never be baked, and a to do list I can't bear to look at again.
I am wearing... my coziest lounge outfit, blue with butterflies. Mostly because it's the only thing that really fits me nicely since my weight continues to go up. And I can't bear to buy anything larger or more of this size - which admits I'm stuck like this.
I am creating... nothing, because it would be a waste of time and money. I am surprised I am creating this post. I am not looking for pity or advice. I just want to be REAL.
I am going... back to bed or on a solitary walk as soon as Tom gets home.
I am reading... other blogs in hopes to find something that doesn't make me feel like such a failure.
I am hoping... for a godsend, a miraculous change in my day without any effort exerted from myself.
I am hearing... my children entertain themselves peacefully, knowing mommy's not "with-it" today.
Around the house... are piles of unfinished tasks, hobby projects waiting to be started, and toys strewn about the floor.
A few plans for the rest of the week: I really hadn't thought that far. I'm just trying to get through today. I guess homeschool, go to the gym, homeschool co-op. My uncle's mother died, so I may be going to her funeral if I'm feeling better.
Here is picture thought I am sharing... a moment I want to relive right now!
For heaven's sake, I am such a mess today. Since my birthday last week (which was a great day thanks to my mom and Jamie), I've been biting my nails again (haven't in over 10 years), I've cried every day and night, I feel embarrased and ashamed of myself, and can't help but wonder what everyone REALLY thinks of me, and at the same time afraid to find out.
If given the chance to hear what other people think of you, would you want to listen?
If given the chance to start your life from scratch, would you?
If you could chose between taking drugs and being numb to your internal feelings, or stay natural and have to fight every day to keep yourself going, which would you chose?
How would you act if you knew who you really were, but being that person would mean living a lonely life, would you chose it or fake who you are to be accepted?
For those who consider themselves very opinionated, do you keep it to yourself or risk alienation by speaking your mind inorder to be honest with your true self?
Update: feeling better, but got a long ways to go to best.
I was impressed when I saw this video and wanted to share it with you immediately. I'm going to change my ways this year too. It does make a difference that we're really poor this year compared to others, but I'm more motivated now than before I saw it...
I am posting this great story in dedication to all those who are spending many quiet hours up in trees this hunting week. May they use this time to pray and be consoled by God. You may get more than you went out there for.
The Trouble Tree
I hired a plumber to help me restore an old farmhouse, and after he had just finished a rough first day on the job - a flat tire made him lose an hour of work, his electric drill quit and his ancient one ton truck refused to start.
While I drove him home, he sat in stony silence. On arriving, he invited me in to meet his family. As we walked toward the front door, he paused briefly at a small tree, touching the tips of the branches with both hands. When opening the door he underwent an amazing transformation. His face was wreathed in smiles and he hugged his two small children and gave his wife a kiss.
Afterward he walked me to the car. We passed the tree and my curiosity got the better of me. I asked him about what I had seen him do earlier.
'Oh, that's my trouble tree,' he replied
'I know I can't help having troubles on the job, but one thing's for sure, those troubles don't belong in the house with my wife and the children. So I just hang them up on the tree every night when I come home and ask God to take care of them'.
'Then in the morning I pick them up again. Funny thing is', he smiled, 'when I come out in the morning to pick 'em up, there aren't nearly as many as I remember hanging up the night before.'
h/t: my mom emailed this story to me - I just added pictures I had.
Mother Teresa said: "The greatest destroyer of love and peace is abortion, which is war against the child. The mother doesn't learn to love, but kills to solve her own problems. Any country that accepts abortion is not teaching its people to love, but to use any violence to get what they want."
"The way to plan the family is natural family planning, not contraception...This (use of contraceptives) turns the attention to self and so it destroys the gift of love in him or her. In loving, the husband and wife must turn the attention to each other as happens in natural family planning, and not to self, as happens in contraception. Once that living love is destroyed by contraception, abortion follows easily . . . And abortion, which often follows from contraception, brings a people to be spiritually poor, and that is the worst poverty and the most difficult to overcome."
Pope John Paul II: "America you are beautiful . . . and blessed . . . . The ultimate test of your greatness is the way you treat every human being, but especially the weakest and most defenseless. If you want equal justice for all and true freedom and lasting peace, then America, defend life."
-Evangelium Vitae [This should concern everyone, not just Catholics] "The Gospel of Life is not for believers alone: it is for everyone. The issue of life and its defense and promotion is not a concern of the Christian alone. Although faith provides special light and strength, this question arises in every human conscience which seeks the truth and which cares about the future of humanity. Life certainly has a sacred and religious value, but in no way is that value a concern only of believers. The value at stake is one which every human being can grasp by the light of reason; thus it necessarily concerns everyone."
President Ronald Reagan in 1982: "Simple morality dictates that unless and until someone can prove the unborn human is not alive, we must give it the benefit of the doubt and assume it is (alive). And, thus, it should be entitled to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness."
“The real question today is not when human life begins, but, What is the value of human life? The abortionist who reassembles the arms and legs of a tiny baby to make sure all its parts have been torn from its mother's body can hardly doubt whether it is a human being. The real question for him and for all of us is whether that tiny human life has a God-given right to be protected by the law— the same right we have.”~ Abortion and the Conscience of the Nation ~
"Abortion kills an unborn, developing human life. It is always gravely evil, and so are the evasions employed to justify it. Catholics who make excuses for it - whether they’re famous or not - fool only themselves and abuse the fidelity of those Catholics who do sincerely seek to follow the Gospel and live their Catholic faith. The duty of the Church and other religious communities is moral witness.The duty of the state and its officials is to serve the common good, which is always rooted in moral truth. A proper understanding of the "separation of Church and state" does not imply a separation of faith from political life. But of course, it’s always important to know what our faith actually teaches."
All I can say is that anyone who believes that voting for Obama was okay because he has more human rights resolutions to vote for (such as the end to the war, universal health care, spreading the wealth) - has been mislead. These things will not help us, they will only condemn us to an increase in government control in our lives [something I surely don't want] and a risk to our lives to terrorism and a huge risk to the lives of children.
So let's keep praying in confidence that God knows what he's doing - and that we will have the courage to stand up for the truth in the midst of adversity. That God will show us how we individually can reach out to those mislead souls.
The article below is in whole and discusses that even though things happen which do not seem to be of God, that it is still God's Divine Providence. It is God's Will for this election of Obama to occur inorder for our lives to move in a preconcieved way...
Abandonment to Divine Providence By Father Reginald Garrigou-Lagrange
Why should we abandon ourselves to Divine Providence?
The answer of every Christian will be that the reason lies in the wisdom and goodness of Providence. This is very true; nevertheless, if we are to have a proper understanding of the subject, if we are to avoid the error of the Quietists in renouncing more or less the virtue of hope and the struggle necessary for salvation, if we are to avoid also the other extreme of disquiet, precipitation, and a feverish, fruitless agitation, it is expedient for us to lay down four principles already somewhat accessible to natural reason and clearly set forth in revelation as found in Scripture. These principles underlying the true doctrine of self-abandonment also bring out the motive inspiring it.
The first of these principles is that everything which comes to pass has been foreseen by God from all eternity, and has been willed or at least permitted by Him.
Nothing comes to pass either in the material or in the spiritual world, but God has foreseen it from all eternity; because with Him there is no passing from ignorance to knowledge as with us, and He has nothing to learn from events as they occur. Not only has God foreseen everything that is happening now or will happen in the future, but whatever reality and goodness there is in these things He has willed; and whatever evil or moral disorder is in them, He has merely permitted. Holy Scripture is explicit on this point, and, as the Councils have declared, no room is left for doubt in the matter.
The second principle is that nothing can be willed or permitted by God that does not contribute to the end He purposed in creating, which is the manifestation of His goodness and infinite perfections, and the glory of the God-man Jesus Christ, His only Son. As St. Paul says, “All are yours. And you are Christ's. And Christ is God's.” (I Cor. 2: 23).
In addition to these two principles, there is a third, which St. Paul states thus:
“We know that to them that love God all things work together unto good: to such as, according to His purpose, are called to be saints”. (Rom. 8: 28),
and persevere in His love. God sees to it that everything contributes to their spiritual welfare, not only the grace He bestows on them, not only those natural qualities He endows them with, but sickness too, and contradictions and reverses; as St. Augustine tells us, even their very sins, which God only permits in order to lead them on to a truer humility and thereby to a purer love. It was thus He permitted the threefold denial of St. Peter, to make the great Apostle more humble, more mistrustful of self, and by this very means become stronger and trust more in the Divine Mercy.
These first three principles may therefore be summed up in this way;
Nothing comes to pass but God has foreseen it, willed it or at least permitted it. He wills nothing, permits nothing, unless for the manifestation of His goodness and infinite perfections, for the glory of His Son, and the welfare of those that love Him.
In view of these three principles, it is evident that our trust in Providence cannot be too childlike, too steadfast. Indeed, we may go further and say that this trust in Providence should be blind as is our faith, the object of which is those mysteries that are non-evident and unseen (fides est de non visis) for we are certain beforehand that Providence is directing all things infallibly to a good purpose, and we are more convinced of the rectitude of His designs than we are of the best of our own intentions. Therefore, in abandoning ourselves to God, all we have to fear is that our submission will not be wholehearted enough.
In view of Quietism, however, this last sentence obliges us to lay down a fourth principle no less certain than the principles that have preceded. The principle is, that obviously self-abandonment does not dispense us from doing everything in our power to fulfill God's will as made known in the Commandments and counsels, and in the events of life; but so long as we have the sincere desire to carry out His will thus made known from day to day, we can and indeed we must abandon ourselves for the rest to the Divine Will of good pleasure, no matter how mysterious it may be, and thus avoid a useless disquiet and mere agitation.
This fourth principle is expressed in equivalent terms by the Council of Trent (Sess. VI, cap. 13), when it declares that we must all have firm hope in God's assistance and put our trust in Him, being careful at the same time to keep His commandments. As the well-known proverb has it: “Do what you ought, come what may.”
All theologians explain what is meant by the Divine Will as expressed: expressed, that is, in the Commandments, in the spirit underlying the counsels, and in the events of life. They add that, while conforming ourselves to His expressed will, we must abandon ourselves to His Divine Will of good pleasure, however mysterious it may be, for we are certain beforehand that in its holiness it wills nothing, permits nothing, unless for a good purpose.
We must take special note here of these words in the Gospel of St. Luke
“He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in that which is greater.” (16: 10).
If every day we do what we can to be faithful to God in the ordinary routine of life, we may be confident that He will give us grace to remain faithful in whatever extremity we may find ourselves through His permission; and if we have to suffer for Him, He will give us the grace to die a heroic death rather than be ashamed of Him and betray Him.
These are the principles underlying the doctrine of trusting self-abandonment. Accepted as they are by all theologians, they express what is of Christian faith in this matter. The golden mean is thus above and between the two errors mentioned at the beginning of this section. By constant fidelity to duty, we avoid the false and idle repose of the. Quietist, and on the other hand by a trustful self-abandonment we are saved from a useless disquiet and a fruitless agitation. Self abandonment would be sloth did it not presuppose this daily fidelity, which indeed is a sort of springboard from which we may safely launch ourselves into the unknown. Daily fidelity to the Divine Will as expressed gives us a sort of right to abandon ourselves completely to the Divine Will of of good pleasure as yet not made known to us.
A faithful soul will often recall to mind these words of our Lord:
“My meat is to do the will of Him that sent me”(John 4: 34).
The soul finds its constant nourishment in the divine will as expressed, abandoning itself to the Divine Will as yet not made known, much as a swimmer supports himself on the passing wave and surrenders himself to the oncoming wave, to that ocean that might engulf him but that actually sustains him. So the soul must strike out toward the open sea, into the infinite ocean of being, says St. John Damascence, borne up by the Divine Will as made known there and then and abandoning itself to that divine will upon which all successive moments of the future depend.
The future is with God, future events are in His hands. If the merchants to whom Joseph was sold by his brethren had passed by one hour sooner, he would not have gone into Egypt, and the whole course of his life would have been changed. Our lives also are dependent on events controlled by God. Daily fidelity and trusting abandonment thus give the spiritual life its balance, its stability and harmony. In this way we live our lives in almost continuous recollection, in an ever-increasing self-abnegation, and these are the conditions normally requited for contemplation and union with God. This, then, is the reason why our life should be one of self-abandonment to the Divine Will as yet unknown to us and at the same time supported every moment by that will as already made known to us.
Well, I've been cheering on this campaign since back when I voted in the Cacuses for Huckabee. The enthusiasm died off for awhile until Gov Sarah Palin came forward to reclaim this republican campaign. There was hope for a wholesome tomorrow with the McCain/Palin ticket. So many of us were moved to campaign for them in our blogs and with friends and family. We felt peace that our country would soon be in good hands. [Though I am in the few who actually aprove Pres Bush and applaud him for his 8 years of dedicated service in tough times.]
Last night, while the crowds cheered for Obama, my heart was torn in two. Early on in the day it seemed obvious that there would be an Obama-Biden win, so it wasn't a surprise - but in that moment, all I wanted to see and hear were the shared tears of many who feel a great loss. Luckily Sen. McCain and Gov. Palin will still be active in our country and still fight for the things they talked to us about. But to not have them leading those causes in turn seems to weaken them all over again.
My words are not as eloquent today, because there is such fear in my shaking hands, tears in my eyes, and a heavy heart trying to accept this new man as my president. An overall sadness for McCain and Palin who wore themselves out during this campaign trying to reach everyone with their plan for a newly reformed government. Could you also see the tears in their eyes, and hesitation in their smiles?
The boos tingled in my veins, but Sen. McCain asked us to stop and remember that this is still a special day for all Americans. It's so hard to see it now, but I can agree. We have come so far, raising awareness in our country about the importance to stay involved in politics if we want to see change. New people have come to push for morality in our government. We've now seen our country united in exclaiming that this is a victory over prejudices of the past. That somehow we can still come together and make the USA a better place to live. McCain reminded us not to be bitter towards the democratic party - but to respect their win and find a way to work with them instead of against them. A real challenge of our integrity and pridefulness.
With this new team firmly in place, I don't think I can ever be at peace. It's far from over. I personally feel this is just a nightmare waiting to happen. I think those of us who strongly supported McCain-Palin will watch vigilantly their every move and decision - especially in the next year. So much is at stake. Life, jobs, the war on terror, the economy. Will his plans be as good as he claims? Are we heading for a depression?
I was sincerely saddened to hear that "economics" were the top voting issue "far above everything else" followed by the war, health care, and energy - I can only hope that defense of human life from conception to natural death will someday make it into the top 3. I hope that those who stepped up in this fight for life will continue beyond this election year. I hope all that were inspired to stand up in the midst of adversity, will stay standing and fight with me.
I am sure President George W Bush will be joining us in fervent prayer, that there will be enough conservative reign in the Senate and House to keep the rediculousness of Obama's policies out - and only allow matters of true prosperity and safety to pass.
And so we continue to pray...
-for the protection of life of the unborn -for scientific research that doesn't include embryos -for the protection of the elderly and disabled -for the sanctity of marriage between a man and a woman -for growth in economic security and jobs in the US -for development of our own energy resources -for security against terrorism -for the troops fighting for a just cause, that they be enabled to stay, finish, and win! -for immigrants to join our nation legally and enjoy the riches of this country - and work hard for those riches as we do. -for all those who think that Obama is their bailout to hardwork and prosperity. -for all those who chose Obama, obviously unaware of his immoral motives. -for all of us who have to watch it happen, may we become activists and evangelists in this great time of need for moral direction and economic growth.
Amen.
GOD, BLESS AMERICA! - please! Melissa
>>PS: Thank you to all of you who stood firm in our beliefs and voted as informed faithful citizens. Those who took the time to learn what matters most, based upon our values which were held far over our personal concerns. I am certain God send us many graces to move forward!
I have come across many encounters with people who are choosing their political candidates based upon personal problems over moral issues. Issues that our church and GOD has deemed for all time - an unchangeable cause and top priority - the right to life (Pro-Life). IF there is no sanctity of life at all stages (from conception to natural death) than only other evil will follow that candidate’s reign. So I feel moved to share with EVERYONE I know, no matter your stance or religion, a portion of what I have learned during this election campaign. I share this because we will always be human - humans who want to LIVE in a wholesome society! Am I right?
*NOTE: these are my own words, so sorry if you don’t agree or feel offended by them - but this is the GOD GIVEN TRUTH you should know!* *If you already agree with me, this might seem obvious - but I have some great links to reaffirm your decision and pass on!*
If you need a postcard or blunt message of WHO the Catholic Church wants you to vote for, you’re not going to get it. It is against church law for a candidate to be endorsed by the church or church leaders. The Church has however informed us HOW to vote. For them to talk openly about it has not happened in our area because frankly, they are afraid of what their parishioners will say or do. I’ve heard this first hand from many reliable resources. Including my dad, who’s homily got some undeserved bitterness {and thankfully also a standing ovation and thank you’s.] However, there are those in many positions who do speak about it, write about it, and - - - it IS very clear who they are pointing to if you vote based on the moral values [cherished by the Catholic Church and other godly people] that they ARE teaching and all the information they HAVE been sending us these past few months. Perhaps you just didn’t see it…
*******Perfect one for you to watch if nothing else here!*******
PERSONAL: Here is my most recent blog about the many reasons, not just one, why I will NOT vote for democrats.
FRIENDS: Some blogger friends of mine who agree and their findings… Totus Tuus Catholic Fire
DEACON: I know many of you have a respect for my dad, who is a Deacon in the Catholic Church. Here is his most recent homily to his Epiphany Parish: Render Unto Ceasar
CHRISTIAN PASTOR: For those who say “I am not Catholic” so I have no obligation… 7 Reasons
PRIEST: ****Perfect one for you to watch if nothing else here! Here is Father Corapi, a wonderful priest recognized by most Catholics… speaking specifically about prolife as the MAIN issue to vote for in this election. FR CORAPI VIDEO
BISHOPS: As a Catholic, you must know the importance of the United States Council of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). They have created a website and mission to help Catholics understand what it means to be a faithful citizen. http://www.faithfulcitizenship.org/
"Bishop Rene H. Gracida, reminds all Catholics that they must vote in this election with an informed conscience. A Catholic cannot be said to have voted in this election with a good conscience if they have voted for a pro-abortion candidate. Barack Hussein Obama is a pro-abortion candidate."
----- Do you understand that abortion is an intrinsically evil act - and anyone who votes for someone who supports this heinous act (such as Obama) is held accountable to God in this sin?! So in this election, this issue of voting for a candidate based on solely on the issue of unborn human life DOES rule over ANY other issue you may have an interest in voting for. And that IS the Catholic Church’s teaching!
I will be blunt about it, where no church leader can…. SINCE BARRACK OBAMA, AL FRANKEN, TINKLENBERG, AND BASICALLY EVERY DEMOCRAT I’VE READ AND HEARD ABOUT IS PROCHOICE, or in Obama’s case 100% pro-abortion, A REAL MORAL CHOICE IS MCCAIN/PALIN for President/VP,
There is your answer in black and white. I do however agree that there are sometimes other candidates, such as Collin Peterson - MN DFL, who have a prolife record and may be a suitable vote. And there is a Constitution Party who is also prolife choice. I am simply optimistic that the lead runner McCain is a very wonderful choice and worth your vote. Maybe the church is really wanting to tell us not WHO to vote for, rather WHO NOT to vote for. :)
Now, perhaps you have already voted, or are still dead-set on your decision, and perhaps skipped reading any of these links or comments I have felt compelled by the Holy Spirit to send you. Or perhaps you read some of this and realized that there is more to being a Catholic than you signed up for. I just want you to know that now that you have the information - it is now your turn to VOTE as a faithful citizen. Decide to vote for what matters MOST and only good can follow. Or perhaps you will join me in helping others understand this teaching and pass this on to your friends and family.
In the meantime - I will pray for you all, that the Holy Spirit will guide you to make the right decision. And if you read this, and it is too late to go back - may God have mercy on your soul. I know this is shocking coming from us - but we’ve reached a point where our lives are lived for the Glory of God, and not our own glory - knowing God will provide and He has before. It is only through doing His Will that we have been blessed as much as we have, and feel brave enough to send on these hard to take truths.
The Joyful Mysteries, as prayed for this year's election, were written by myself. I hope this can help you in further reflection as it did for me and my family. It may not be a "wow-you-over" kind of prayer, but it's something...
1. The Annunciation = The "Yes!"
May we too say "yes" to voting for our values, not just because it is our obligation - but because we desire it too. May we say "yes" to going to the polls, to accepting our role as Faithful Citizens. May we put God's will above our own. God's will to let all living things prosper and die on his own terms - not ours.
2. The Visitation = Recognition
Like Elizabeth recognized Mary as the Mother of God, may we recognize the person God would choose to be our nation's leader. May we be excited and enthused about this valuable candidate. Bring into our lives others wiser than we may be to help us in this decision.
3. The Nativity = A Gift
The nativity represents many gifts: the shelter of the manger, the christ child, the wise men's gifts, the guiding star... May we follow that guiding star, spend time in quiet adoration and thoughtful prayer and worship, and open the doors to our hearts and let Jesus dwell within us. We pray for a respect of all life, the ability to live humbly, and the willingness to give our vote as a gift to God. Let each of our votes be given to represent so many of those babies unable to make this decision.
4. The Presentation = Guidance
Mary and Joseph knew the proper place to go gor guidance. Like them, may we turn to the CatholicChurch for guidance and instruction. On how to vote, what to pray for, what to hope foe, and what to do if the wrong person is elected. May we offer our lives as a service to God, rather than for ourselves.
5. The Finding of Jesus in the Temple = Learn
Jesus proved himself knowledgeble in the presence of the elders. May we continue to educate ourselves in the faith - immerse ourselves in the Church's teachings about being a faithful citizen. Lord, help us spend more time in prayer this week, and help other find Christ to be their true leader and teacher in all of life's situations. Let the Holy Spirit be our guide.
While praying the Mysteries of Light last Thursday in Adoration, I noticed a trend in affirmation of my earlier thoughts and the need for the Sacraments. Read along and open your heart to the Guidance of the Holy Spirit incase he has a message for you too.
1. Christ's Baptism in the Jordan
a. We are to set an example of ourselves, as Jesus did that day.
b. The Sacrament of Baptism is especially necessary to enter Heaven, and also to be able to move from having a life to living it for a greater purpose.
2. The Wedding at Cana
a. Even Mary says, "Listen to my son." She directs attention to Him, and in that moment he "grows up" and becomes the man we know Him as.
b. This also time reflects on the Sacrament of Marriage and the respect it deserves.
3. Proclamation of the Kingdom
a. There is a purpose to our lives and there is a greater cause to live for... That by being faithful, we will someday enjoy the fruits of our labor (as demended to us by God in Genesis) in Heaven. And this mystical place is open to anyone who wants it and works towards it.
b. This emphasizes out need for living out God's Commandments and His Will for us.
c. This call may include the Sacrament of Holy Orders, in order to fulfill His Will, or another vocation in which we give ourselves completely in service to God.
4. The Transfiguration of Jesus
a. Change - we need to be willing to change and accept God's Will for us, in whatever direction that may lead.
b. In the transfiguration, Jesus is defined as the Son of God and greater than those prophets who came before Him. We too must define our lives and acknowledge God's greatness.
c. When we ackowledge a changing point in our faith lives, where we change from Children of God to Soldiers for Christ - this point is when we recieve the Sacrament of Confirmation.
5. Institution of the Eucharist
a. The best way to make this all happen is to refresh ourselves with the Word of God, and participate in the Eucharist as often as possible - at Mass.
b. This is why the Sacrament of Holy Communion is so important, because God grants us Graces in that moment - that help us deal with every day circumstances and it revives our faith. Our desire to serve Him increases at Mass if we are truly open to receiving Him.
Thank you for taking the time to read my enlightening moment. Leave a comment if this has touched your life today in some way.
FOLLOW-UP: For those who came to this blog from my email link sent on election day, click here to make your comments. It is a copy of my email with a link to a followup letter from a bishop after the election was over. So many seem to agree that what I have written is not a harsh opinion, rather a serious truth. Last night I watched Hannity's Top Ten Reasons not to vote for Obama
Here they all are, and I agree with every single one of them. Well put Hannity!
10. Judgement
9. Media Darling; 8. A Heartbeat Away
7. Consistancy; 6. Out of the Mainstream
5. To Many Democrats; 4.Divisive Politics
3. Taxes & Spending; 2. Foreign Policy
1. Experience
You see, while the defense for all life is my main reason for chosing McCain over Obama... everything else just seems to back it up! That is why so many of us say, if you are not respecting of life at ALL stages - only evil can follow your reign.
For those out there that we bump into on a daily basis, who say - "Hey, you're a union worker - you should vote for Obama because he's for unions..." talking about my husband, a union carpenter. Here's some info for all of you!!!
I vote for what I believe is good AND a moral choice for our country. Hence, the above topics.
I do not like unions. I think it is rediculous that we have to form unions in order to get fair pay and fair benefits. This should happen no matter who you work for. I do not like that unions force you to work for ONLY unions, even when work it scarce. I do not like unions because they do not find you other permanent work, infact my husband pays someone to find him work (and they don't) and he ends up having to call all the same companies and find the job himself. I do not like unions because they send such a negative vibe that either you vote for a democrat or you're seen as a traitor.
The only thing I like about unions is the fact that you get paid what you are worth BY FORCE (which is silly), and because they get free training to stay up to date. Well, all I gotta say about that is - McCain is trying to do this without having to form unions. Fair pay and fair benefits for everyone.
Okay, now I hear you all saying - well Obama is going to do this with his tax plan and universal health care plan. What a load of crap. All he's doing is trying to create a world where the poor feel comfortable staying poor and the people who have worked their butts off have to pay them to sit on their butts. Yes, I said it. I have heard real stories about people around here who turn down great jobs because it would "take away" their "welfare benefits." Can you believe it!? I know several men around here in the union who refuse work, because they want to just live off unemployment for their summer or winter vacation.
Yes, we opt to apply for unemployment benefits when Tom is unable to find work. But he is spending every day of those 1-6 months looking, and applying at every job known to man, even jobs he's never done before and jobs that are non-union. He does what is right for our family. That's always top priority!
So what are the priorities in your life? What the union hall is telling you to do? Or can you think for yourself, and realize that this world will be worse off with a president who supports unions, but is for the poor - NOT the middle class.
Okay, I hear another complainer saying - are you against the poor?! Heck no. I am all for helping the poor. 60% of this year I have been low income, standing in the food shelf line. But we've worked hard at coming back to where we are now. We made sure we didn't "settle into" the giveaways of the government and community. That's how it is supposed to work.
And if McCain becomes president, you bet you are going to find me cheering him on in his endeavors to promote nuclear energy - considering my husband works at the local nuclear power plant. You bet I am going to let him know we need to fight for fair wages and benefits, and not let people slack off and settle into government giveaways. I am going to back him in becoming independent in our own resources, and lowering taxes for corporations so they can afford to keep thousands at work and keep that work here in the US!
There are a million and one reasons I am voting this way, and I strongly believe that any union worker who thinks we are traitors or uninformed - are seriously wrong! We know EXACTLY what we are doing. And those signs in our front yard and on our vehicles are evidence of that.
Okay, I'm tired of explaining myself. Going to be with my family!
Courageous Love: Lesson 3 Faith and the Life of Grace Women's Study Group meeting on Oct 23, 2008
We open with prayer, and discuss next Sunday's Gospel. The discussion went something like this...
Next Sunday's Gospel: Matthew 22: 34-40 The Greatest Commandment Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."
Melissa: I feel that from this reading and this lesson, which are so similar, make it clear that evangelization and worship go hand in hand. That one is worthless without the other. That is why I suggest that our resolution for the next two weeks is to reach out to our neighbor in a spiritual way, specifically asking God to pick that person for us. Perhaps to ask someone to come worship with us at church.
Clarissa: The word "All" seems so emphasized in this reading. "All" meaning our entire being for God, can seem overwhelming. And to love neighbors, who may be enemies... all hard to do. This must have been a radical teaching at the time.
Christine & Sandy: I've experienced "hard to love" neighbors. How DO you love someone so full of evil?
Melissa: When he said, "Love your neighbor" it continues to say "as yourself," which means simply to be an example to others, including those who are evil in actions, and treat them respectfully. [It is not our duty to be evil to those who are evil. We are to be respectful of them as a person created by God, regardless of how they choose to live their life.]
L: Spoke of an account where Leppers grabbed someone in an effort to disrespectfully be near them, and this religious leader in turn embraced them tighter in consolation. [Is this like that quote: "Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer." ? Are we to embrace our enemies with so much love and concern that it just rubs off and melts their hard hearts...]
Jamie: Has had lasting negative feelings and fear associated with hateful blog comments. Always wondering who's really out there on the streets of today?
Ann Marie: How many missed opportunities are there, when the Holy Spirit has moved us to do something, and we either didn't recognize it until later or ignored it all together?
Resolution: Reach out to your neighbor in a spiritual way.
Afterwards, we discuss our answers in the book. It was very enlightening, and quite the challenge to my faith life. I realize that God will continue to call me to be his lips and hands, even when I am seemingly busy. And this lesson points out, that even though we do good works, we also need to brush up on our knowledge of the faith inorder to profess it better.
Adoration time in reflection: Okay God, before I can even remember to ask you for the name of the "neighbor" I neglected to evangelize to... you are already presenting me with the name [of a cousin] over and over again in my head. I can't even seem to let in any other possiblity.
So while [this cousin] is one of the lost souls in need of harvesting, I can't help but wonder... HOW THE HECK DO I BRING THIS UP? I missed the opporunity so long ago, is it too late? [Just like in 1 Samuel 3 where he is being called over and over again.] No - God keeps calling for me. These cousins in mind are close to me, and we've "grown up" together - even though we are all still so very young. I want to speak to them because I care about them and their souls so deeply, but I fear losing that closeness with every holy word I speak.
I take this moment to pause and thank God for all in my life, especially Tom, who has "grown" in faith with me - with little debate.
Why are there so many fixated on "FEELING" the presence of God at chuch? Why, when there is a certain way to physically TOUCH Christ in the Eucharist? If they only knew. In today's lesson of Courageous Love, the woman knows she will be healed if she touches Jesus' robe. Jesus feels the "rush" of his power moving from him. What an exhilirating thought. At the end of the lesson there is a focus on the Eucharist, which at first seemed like another chapter by itself, but now I see the connection, that your Eucharistic body gives us more graces - a rush of Godly healing into our soul - each time we receive the Eucharist and you become a part of us! That's the FEELING I crave. This kind of rush MUST be comparable in exhiliration that those who stray to another religion are searching for. What can we do to make sure they see it here in the Catholic religion? If anyone wants to "feel good" when they are at church, the worship in song and prayer is exciting... but not near as affirming as knowing Christ Jesus, the Son of God, is now physically dwelling within you. If He is within you, your faith is bound to "grow." Nourish yourself often, and it will only increase. Just as this lesson was getting at. Now that's a RUSH!
Oh, how our lives are changed by our testings and trials in our lives and its affect on our faith. Some have simply failed the test and need someone or something to draw them back to the true path.
"Is it I, Lord?
Here I am Lord."
"I will go Lord, if you lead me." I will pursue this challenge because you have called me to it and you will bring me through it.
But you know my fears and anxieties. Consuole me. I am shaking in my boots at the thought of approaching someone so close to me on such a personal matter. But I will keep in mind, this is about Your Glory and Honor, not my social life.
With God, I can hope all things, endure all things...
2 Timothy 4:1-5 I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingly power: proclaim the word; be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient; convince, reprimand, encourage through all patience and teaching. For the time will come when people will not tolerate sound doctrine but, following their own desires and insatiable curiosity, will accumulate teachers and will stop listening to the truth and will be diverted to myths. But you, be self-possessed in all circumstances; put up with hardship; perform the work of an evangelist; fulfill your ministry.
1 Corinthians 13 tells us of this LOVE we should have for our neighbor - in specifically in verse 7 - It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
Thank you, Lord, for this revelation! Holy Spirit, continue to guide me. Mary, be my example. St. Michael and Guardian Angel - guard and defend me. Amen.
SO - I challenge you to go out and do the same.
I will post later, my "Illuminating" rosary that was said that same night, and what it means for us as Catholics who have faith AND live faithfully. I also will post the Joyful Mysteries we said yesterday for our Election Novena which began Sunday Oct 26, 2008.
I got an email this past week from a friend, labeled "Non-partican" - yeah right. It was from: Donald E. Wildmon, Founder and Chairman American FamilyAssociation Maybe you got it?
Well I did, and it pissed me off to no end. While I wanted to reply quickly with "you mnoron, how can you be so gullable and pass this on to more gullable people?" I decided to write this about my own knowledge on the $700 bil rescue plan. I never got the nerve to send it to her, so here is my reply on my blog - the one I write about anything and everything I want to without disregard to who sees it.
I need to vent! -----------------
I am sorry to have to say this so directly, but it really irks me how quickly people pass on the negative rumors, and many willingly accept them as truth. I just want it to stop. The email you forwarded is just another liberal rampage to scare the American people into believing that our government is full of idiots who don’t care about the average citizen. FALSE. Liberals and Democrats love to point fingers, lie, and stay bitter. And if people want to point fingers, point them at yourselves because we’re electing these people who make these decisions. That’s who the blame lies upon. [Not to mention the greed of the every day citizen, ALL low to middle to high income people.]
There are too many bitter Americans out there as is who are not checking out facts. Why become so bitter before you know the truth about this plan, which this email sent below did not express. Do your research before pushing such inaccurate facts to other people who may be more gullible and just take someone else’s word for it.
That’s one thing I’ve learned with this election and “bailout bill” process, that you have to do your own research. Because media and personal emails are very biased and simply want to “jerk your chain” not properly inform you. Is that what you want?
Did you know that we were reliving the days of the Great Depression’s stock market crash of 1929? Did you know that if they hadn’t passed this bill, we’d be much worse off? Were you rooting for a recession or a depression? Because those were our choices.
Did you know that it’s not $700 billlion all at once, that’s just a cap off number over 2 years? It is the equivalent (not expense) of around $3500 per person NOT $37,000 per person? That’s just to show people what that much money looks like, not that we have to pay a single penny of that. We don’t owe the [whatever] amount!!!! In fact, there is a chance of making money on this decision! Overall it is still better for us. Many people will be able to keep their homes because of this “Rescue Bill.” The housing market should grow, and loans will become available again. But don’t expect a one week fix.
Think of it like a credit consolidation company, buying your loans and renegotiating them… Many of “Middle Class Americans” have been there. You have been there.
Did you know that what we can do is be responsible citizens and don’t take on more than we can chew!? Did you know that what we can do is be the responsible corporate people who don’t take advantage of others? Did you know that what we can do is elect government officials that look out for the good of the nation, and not themselves. Did you know that the best thing we can do is PRAY that those in charge will make the best decisions for all of us?
Again, it’s what’s best for our Country not just for you.
So instead of sending out negative vibes and emails that promise nothing but a negative vibe… Pray to God who promises us he will answer our prayers according to his will. And do your best to research and contemplate what is really happening, and stop pointing fingers. Why are you so consumed with blaming someone? That isn’t Christian? Lets move forward with the plan we’ve got!
Financial Crisis: How to Stop the Panic: The world's governments are shocked and dismayed by their inability to stop the increasingly grave financial crisis. Nothing they have attempted has gotten lending flowing normally. Profitable companies are cut off from borrowing. Confidence is shot. Through Oct. 7 the U.S. stock market had its worst five-day performance since 1932 on fears of a severe economic downturn. Says Stephen Jen, currency economist at Morgan Stanley (MS) in London: "The choices for the real economy are between a recession and a depression."
THIS IS A NONPARTISAN JOKE THAT CAN BE ENJOYED BY BOTH PARTIES! NOT ONLY THAT-- it is POLITICALLY CORRECT!!
While walking down the street one day a US senator is tragically hit by a truck and dies. His soul arrives in heaven and is met by St. Peter at the entrance.
'Welcome to heaven,' says St. Peter. 'Before you settle in, it seems there is a problem. We seldom see a high official around these parts, you see, so we're not sure what to do with you.'
'No problem, just let me in,' says the man.
'Well, I'd like to, but I have orders from higher up. What we'll do is have you spend one day in hell and one in heaven. Then you can choose where to spend eternity.'
'Really, I've made up my mind. I want to be in heaven,' says the senator.
'I'm sorry, but we have our rules.' And with that, St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to hell.
The doors open and he finds himself in the middle of a green golf course. In the distance is a clubhouse and standing in front of it are all his friends and other politicians who had worked with him.Everyone is very happy and in evening dress. They run to greet him, shake his hand, and reminisce about the good times they had while getting rich at the expense of the people.They play a friendly game of golf and then dine on lobster, caviar and champagne. Also present is the devil, who really is a very friendly & nice guy who has a good time dancing and telling jokes. They are having such a good time that before he realizes it, it is time to go. Everyone gives him a hearty farewell and waves while the elevator rises...
The elevator goes up, up, up and the door reopens on heaven where St. Peter is waiting for him. 'Now it's time to visit heaven.'
So, 24 hours pass with the senator joining a group of contented souls moving from cloud to cloud, playing the harp and singing. They have a good time and, before he realizes it, the 24 hours have gone by and St. Peter returns.
'Well, then, you've spent a day in hell and another in heaven. Now choose your eternity.'
The senator reflects for a minute, then he answers: 'Well, I would never have said it before, I mean heaven has been delightful, but I think I would be better off in hell.
'So St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to hell. Now the doors of the elevator open and he's in the middle of a barren land covered with waste and garbage. He sees all his friends, dressed in rags, picking up the trash and putting it in black bags as more trash falls from above.The devil comes over to him and puts his arm around his shoulder.
'I don't understand,' stammers the senator. 'Yesterday I was here and there was a golf course and clubhouse, and we ate lobster and caviar, drank champagne, and danced and had a great time. Now there's just a wasteland full of garbage and my friends look miserable.What happened?'
The devil looks at him, smiles and says, 'Yesterday we were campaigning.. ..Today you voted.'
Notes from reading "Courageous Love" written by Stacy Mitch Lesson 2: The Dignity of Womanhood
This particular lesson is about being a woman and also what that means in marriage.
Q1a: In what ways has modern feminism advanced the cause of women? A1a: Modern feminism has done some good by bringing to attention the works and efforts of women. However there is a difference between taking pride in your work and bring prideful. Feminism has opened up opportunities for the "feminine touch" to reflect in our society. Single women and mothers are now able to be self sufficent financially when they have no one else to help them out. It has expanded our education opportunities. Women can vote. Modern feminism has brought forth some fruitful things worth commending. [But don't get me wrong, there is a negative affect.]
Q1b: In what areas of life is the cause of women still in need of progress? A1b: It is being rooted in selfishness and lacking morality. There has been a change in making it harder for women to be feminine and stay at home. Where this used to be common place, it is now seen as a sign of weekness, submission, and other sterotypes.
OKay, I must stop here to let you know that I am not against the working mother. I simply wish that it wasn't a necessity, rather a choice that only must come with financial difficulties. Not used as an escape into selfishness and defining self-worth.
Q2b: What do you think it means to be a woman? A2b: A women is feminine, sociable, prayerful and is drawn to care and service of many kinds. A woman has a diginified and moral lifestyle dedicated to the tasks of God's vocation set for her. Overall, her life is lived like a prayer.
*Pope John Paul II said (p29)
"Women must not appropriate to themselves male characteristics
contrary to their own feminine 'originality'...
an enourmous richness."
Q3a: What are some of the pitfalls of modern feminism? A3a: Liberal feminists belive that housewives are lacking in social opportunities, seeing it as a burden rather than the blessing that it is. I myself made the decision to give up my many freedoms in hope for this better life I've found as a mother.
Because of their desire to be equal to men, they give up their feminity through various means including removing fertility, subjecting themselves to pills and abortions. These women put off marriage and children for personal success and adventure. They make their life for themselves and not for God. And it can be hard, because it is not God's natural way.
Challenge: For heaven sakes, type in images.google.com first "Womanhood" then "feminism" and tell me what you see!
In order to find our original purpose as a woman/wife, we have to look back at the first woman - Eve.
Q4b: Why did God create Eve? And what are its implications?
A4b: God said in Genesis that "it is not good that man be alone. I will make him a helper as his partner." This is a humble role, but active part. "While the man is the head of the family, the woman is the heart, and they are mutually dependent."#27 "This subjection, however, does not deny or take away the liberty which fully belongs to the woman both in view of her dignity as a human person, and in view of her most noble office as wife and mother and companion; nor does it bid her obey her husband's every request if not in harmony with right reason or with the dignity due to wife; nor, in fine, does it imply that the wife should be put on a level with those persons who in law are called minors..."
So we are to be submissive to our husbands, but not in a way that jeopordizes our right to diginity and respect. And as a married couple we become complete, whole, and depend on each other. It's not a one way street as some people think is the traditional way.
WITHIN THIS LESSON there are several refernces to women in the bible and I was taken by surprise how often. I still recommend this book to anyone trying to find their womanhood as God has designed for us in the single or married life.
In contemplation over this lesson, I definately can see why I haven't acheived my goal to be "lady-like." I seem to have used my knowledge and understanding of things (matters of life and faith) as a dominant weapon in my marriage instead of a tool, and sometimes with others. I will have much trouble becoming more submissive in my role as a wife. Just today, before reading this lesson, I had already felt compelled to be a more traditional housewife. But I let my old habbits take over my busy-ness.
I ask:
How can I humbly use my intellegence and understanding without seeming prideful, arrogant, or snobbish?
How do I appropriately speak with and inform others who are not as knowlegeable and perceptive as me without making them feel like idiots?
I know God has only good in store for my vocation as a wife and mother, as well as in my attempt to evangelize (share my faith). But I must first make a good example of myself before confronting other's lifestyles in debate.
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"The way to plan the family is natural family planning, not contraception...This (use of contraceptives) turns the attention to self and so it destroys the gift of love in him or her. In loving, the husband and wife must turn the attention to each other as happens in natural family planning, and not to self, as happens in contraception. Once that living love is destroyed by contraception, abortion follows easily . . . And abortion, which often follows from contraception, brings a people to be spiritually poor, and that is the worst poverty and the most difficult to overcome."
With this new team firmly in place, I don't think I can ever be at peace. It's far from over. I personally feel this is just a nightmare waiting to happen. I think those of us who strongly supported McCain-Palin will watch vigilantly their every move and decision - especially in the next year. So much is at stake. Life, jobs, the war on terror, the economy. Will his plans be as good as he claims? Are we heading for a depression?
