Gems from Heaven

Simone's Baptismal Day

2009-07-23T09:46:00.000-07:00

It is our family tradition to celebrate the day of our baptism.
Today is Simone's day. She was baptized July 23, 2006.
I cannot believe it has already been 3 years!

The kids love to look at their pictures and talk about the day the were baptized. We make a special dinner and they get to pick out or make a cake in celebration of this day. However, the most important thing is that grow up understanding this special sacrament.

Baptism
Baptism is the first of the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, First Holy Communion, Confirmation) and it is the very first Sacrament that we receive. Through Baptism we each become a new creation, as all original sin (inherited from our first parents, Adam and Eve) and all personal sin (actual sins that we have committed against God) is forgiven. At Baptism we become Christians; the (adopted) children of God, and we are incorporated into the one Church that Christ founded 2000 years ago.

Baptism is the ‘gateway’ to all the other Sacraments and Catholics can not receive any of the other 6 Sacraments unless they have first been Baptised. The virtues of faith, hope and love are conferred at Baptism and as with all the Sacraments, they were instituted by Christ as a means of our being incorporated into Him and for us to receive grace. Baptism opens up for us a supernatural life of grace and is foundational to the Sacramental life.

At Baptism we are bought to new life in Christ and have the hope of sharing in His Resurrected life.

Nastia's Adoption Day

2009-07-17T18:48:00.000-07:00

Today was Nastia's official Adoption Day. We had our court adoption hearing at 1:30pm. The judge was very nice! Nastia was so cute, all of the kids were very happy and excited for this day to finally arrive.

It feels like Nastia has always been with us. God's plan is always the best. I am very grateful to be the mother of Nastia Julia Chell.

Hightlights of Our Week

2009-05-22T11:00:00.000-07:00

Simone turned 4 years old on Wednesday!
We made chocolate cupcakes with pink frosting. She had fun pouring all the sprinkles over every inch of each cupcake. She chose hot dogs for her birthday dinner and everything was simple, like it should be in the life of a 4 year old. I cannot imagine life without this precious child. We thank God everyday for the gift she is to us!

Jordan Awarded Photo Student of the Year at Oaks!!!!
This is the second year in a row that Jordan has received this award. We are so proud of him!

Carter, Tatiana, and Nastia are on school countdown for summer.
They are all doing excellent and can't wait for summer. We are going to have a nice and relaxing vacation. They all deserve it!

Jordan's Photography Work

2009-05-07T10:49:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to view some Jordan's Photography work.
www.behance.net/jordanChell/frame

(copy & paste)

Jordan & Leah's Prom Pictures

2009-04-26T18:20:00.000-07:00

St. Thomas Aquinas College

2009-04-25T17:16:00.000-07:00

We took a drive to St.Thomas Aquinas College today. It is in Santa Paula, which is about a 30min drive from our house. We all fell in love with the entire campus. It is just beautiful. We had the privilege of being invited to attend a private Mass which was given by a priest who is an alumni. The chapel is absoluetly breathtaking. Click on the link below and then click on chapel to take a peak.

On Wednesday, April 15, 2009, Dr. Thomas E. Dillon, the president of Thomas Aquinas Colleg was killed in an automobile accident in Ireland, where he was traveling on behalf of the College. His funeral was yesterday and over 1000 people attended.

I have several friends that have kids that attend this school. It is truly a divine place.
http://www.thomasaquinas.edu/index.html

ABOUT THOMAS AQUINAS COLLEGE
Thomas Aquinas College opened its doors in 1971. It is a four-year Catholic liberal arts college exclusively devoted to the study of the Great Books, using only the Socratic method of dialogue in all of its classes. There are no text books, no lectures and no electives. Instead, the College offers an entirely integrated curriculum using only the original texts of the greatest thinkers who have helped shape Western Civilization. These authors include St. Thomas Aquinas, St. Augustine, Aristotle, Plato, Shakespeare, Euclid, Dante, Galileo, Descartes, our American Founding Fathers, Adam Smith, Copernicus, Kepler, and Newton to name a few.

Thomas Aquinas College graduates consistently excel in the many world-class institutions where they pursue graduate degrees in such disciplines professions as law, medicine, business, theology and education. They have distinguished themselves in these fields serving as headmasters, business owners, lawyers, priests, journalists, doctors, military service men and women, educators and college presidents.

2009-04-22T10:17:00.001-07:00

April 22, 2009
Hope

"All things upon which you set your trust are yours. Do but expect much of God, and He will do much for you. Expect but little, and He will do little."
St. Bernard

For Reflection:
What is the word of wisdom that St. Bernard offers us in this quote? How does this correspond to these words from St. James, "You do not obtain because you do not ask?" Read James 4: 1-10 to discover what attitude of heart should accompany our request of God.

Divine Mercy Sunday

2009-04-19T16:33:00.000-07:00

"I shall sing forever the Lord's mercy." (Ps 89 [88]) This Sunday is popularly known as Mercy of God Sunday. Between 1930 and 1938 Christ appeared to Sister Faustina, a Sister of Mercy in Poland who initiated the Divine Mercy devotion. She was canonized on April 30, 2000, the Sunday after Easter, the Feast of Divine Mercy. On Good Friday, 1937, Jesus requested that Blessed Faustina make a special novena before the Feast of Mercy, from Good Friday through the following Saturday. Jesus also asked that a picture be painted according to the vision of Himself as the fountain of mercy. He gave her a chaplet to be recited and said that it was appropriate to pray the chaplet at three o'clock each afternoon (the Hour of Great Mercy).

He is Risen!

2009-04-12T19:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter!

We attended the Easter Vigil which was just beautiful! Simone lasted the full 2 1/2 hours and was so well behaved! The kids enjoyed watching all 10 baptisms!

We then headed out for 11:00 Mass this morning. Tatiana sang in the choir, she actually had a solo. The Mass was beautiful. The church was packed, wouldn't it be great if it was like that every week.

Have a blessed Easter Season. May God radically change your life. Christ did not Rise for us to live luke warm. Do you want a life full of blessings? Step out of your small view and start thinking how radical Jesus wants you to live. Why leave your blessings at the altar.....claim the blessings that Christ has for you!

Be A Giver.....Be a Blessing....God will ALWAYS bless those who bless others.

Parents are responsible for teaching their children the Faith

2009-03-28T16:30:00.000-07:00

The Primary Apostolate
from a speech by Fr. John Hardon

No one will be saved unless he practices the Charity of sharing the Faith with others. Parents have the principal responsibility to share the Faith with their children. The purpose of teaching the children the Faith is to prepare them for Heaven.

Children are brought into this world for heaven. This is why you are parents. You are parents for eternity.

How are parents to share the Faith with their children?

The first condition is that you yourselves must have the Faith. It is fundamental to Christianity: the Faith comes from those who already have the Faith.

What a difference between having the Faith and having the Faith deeply, clearly, firmly…having the Faith of martyrs.

No ordinary Faith will survive in today’s world, only heroic Faith.

God wants to use you parents as the principal channels to share the Faith with your children. But the means and the degree of efficiency of communication of your Faith will depend on how strong your Faith is in your own hearts and minds.

Home education of your own children is not easy. It is demanding; it requires heroic virtue.

But given that holy virtue of Faith in your own hearts and minds, God will use you for understanding the Faith, teaching the Faith, practicing the Faith, and if it is God’s will, dying for the Faith.

Living in our materially developed nation—how this needs to be said—the greatest risk we have is that as we become materially more advanced, more consumer-conscious, more intoxicated with the things of this world, the more liable we are to forget that we are on earth for one reason—to reach heaven, and there is no way to reach heaven without the Faith.

You are parents that you might be, in the providence of God, the channels of grace of the Faith for your child.

But your own Faith must be strong.

I have three recommendations. First, pray, pray, pray. Believing parents, praying parents are courageous parents. Praying parents are united with God and capable of communicating to their children what God has given them.

In the name of God, pray, pray much. Pray from the depths of your heart. Live in the presence of God. Pray.

Second, know your faith. Faith is not some cerebral possession of a body of ideas. Faith is a living infused virtue. Faith is a gift of the supernatural life.

But unless you know your Faith and understand the knowledge of your Faith, you will not be able to share with your children more than you have.

God uses only believing parents to reproduce believing children. God uses only strong believing parents to provide strong believing children. God uses only heroic believing families, with parents who have paid dearly for preserving and deepening their Faith.

We are living in the most critical age in the history of Christianity. You must know the Faith, study the Faith, learn the Faith.

Third, Jesus Christ during His visible stay on earth said, “I am with you all days, even to the consummation of the world.”

Eucharistic parents are the ones whom Christ will use to communicate the Faith in Jesus Christ.

Assist at the sacrifice of the Mass as often as you can. Receive Holy Communion. This is the principal means of the petition of the Lord’s prayer: give us this day our daily bread.

Receive Holy Communion every day. Spend time in front of the Blessed Sacrament every day and hold your children in your arms.

Jesus, help us to pay the heavy price of home schooling here on earth so that we may reach the home for which our homes were made, in that eternal dwelling place to which dear Jesus you are calling us to join You for all the ages of eternity. Amen.

2009-03-28T16:28:00.001-07:00

Beauty or a Bum?

A man sat at a metro station in Washington DC and started to play the violin; it was a cold January morning. He played six Bach pieces for about 45 minutes. During that time, since it was rush hour, it was calculated that thousands of people went through the station, most of them on their way to work.

Three minutes went by and a middle-aged man noticed there was a musician playing. He slowed his pace and stopped for a few seconds and then hurried to meet his schedule. A minute later, the violinist received his first dollar tip: a woman threw the money in his case and without stopping continued on. A few minutes later someone leaned against the wall to listen, but looked at his watch and headed off. Clearly he was late for work.

The one who paid the most attention was a 3 year-old boy. His mother tugged him along, hurried but the kid stopped to look at the violinist. Finally the mother pushed hard and the child continued to walk, turning his head all the time. This action was repeated by several other children. All the parents, without exception, forced them to move on.

In the 45 minutes the musician played, only 6 people stopped and stayed for a while. About 20 gave him money but continued to walk at their normal pace. He collected $32. When he finished playing and silence took over, no one noticed it. No one applauded, nor was there any recognition. No one knew this, but the violinist was Joshua Bell, one of the best musicians in the world. He played one of the most intricate pieces ever written with a violin worth 3.5 million dollars. Two days before his playing in the subway, Joshua Bell sold out at a theater in Boston, and the seats averaged $100.

This is a real story. Joshua Bell playing incognito in the metro station was organized by the Washington Post as part of a social experiment about perception, taste and priorities of people. The experiment’s outlines were: in a commonplace environment at an inappropriate hour? Do we perceive beauty? Do we stop to appreciate it? Do we recognize the talent in an unexpected context?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hnOPu0_YWhw

2009-03-23T14:08:00.000-07:00

Reprint of part of the sermon delivered by Fr. Shea at St. Rose of Lima Parish, Simi Valley - January 18, 2009

Talking of a hero of the Nazi Holocaust, Cardinal von Faulhaber, (who, incidentally, ordained Pope Benedict a priest), Fr. Shea moved on to the likeness to today’s abortion holocaust.

This Holocaust also includes the manipulation of stem cells harvested through abortions and the termination of life of our elderly through euthanasia solely for the purpose of a national agenda of convenience, economic prosperity and creating another “master race” of people who will never get sick, who will be as beautiful as the models and movie stars we see on TV, in the movies or the Internet, or who will be the brightest and most talented in the world “another Albert Einstein or another Michael Jordan” super race.
And why is this happening? Because some people in this nation really do believe that the end justifies the means. They believe that the evil means of abortion, euthanasia and some genetic engineering justify the good end of a better nation and society, better health and a more convenient life. But also this present day Holocaust is happening because the majority of people have become part of a conspiracy of silence. They have been confused, deceived or intimidated. Hitler tried to intimidate Cardinal Faulhaber and many others into silence during the first Holocaust. The secular world tries to do the same today with this Holocaust. Edmund Burke expressed it best in a quote from his essay Thoughts on the Cause of Present Discontents: “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.”
That’s why we must answer the question that the Gospel reading lays before us today: Will we be faithful disciples of Jesus Christ? You see, brothers and sisters, Jesus is very clear about what His followers should do in the face of the evil of this modern day Holocaust of abortion and euthanasia. I was listening to a CD of a retreat that Fr. Benedict Groeschel recently gave to priests. Fr. Groeschel told a story about a prominent New York celebrity who approached Mother Teresa and asked her, “Mother Teresa, what is your view about abortion?” Mother Teresa stared at him, like Daniel Boone drawing a bead on a poor raccoon in a tree, and replied, “What do you think Jesus thinks about abortion?” Utter silence.
Jesus is very clear about abortion and euthanasia. There is no confusion and no ambiguity. Abortion and euthanasia are murder. The only ones who are confused, ambiguous, and deceived are unbelievers and fair weather Catholics. Fair-weather Catholics are gung-ho followers of Jesus when it comes to the light, easy, cheerful teachings of the Gospel. But when it involves the challenging, moral dictates that Jesus teaches, they stumble over their euphemisms, excuses, their doublespeak, and their rationalizations.
You’ve heard them: “I am personally opposed to abortion, but I believe that a woman has the right to choose.” I wonder: would those same people say, “I’m personally against stealing, but I believe that a person has the right to steal my car?”No way! Isn’t it amazing how people wouldn’t accept that rationalization with any other Commandment. It’s just with the 5th commandment and the issue of abortion and euthanasia. Jesus is very clear about His teaching on abortion and euthanasia. There is no confusion, no ambiguity. It is only unbelievers and fair weather Catholics.
But there is still the majority of Catholics out there who are good and trying to be faithful, but, who have been intimidated or confused into silence. I urge you not to be afraid. We Catholics make up Â¼ of the population of America. If we stood together as dedicated disciples of Jesus Christ and Catholics faithful to Christ’s teachings, we would change the entire moral fabric, fiber and direction of our country.
And we need to stand up. We need to speak out for all those unborn or elderly citizens who have lost their voice in our sleek, chic, sophisticated world. I will tell you why. President-elect Barack Obama has stated publicly that the one of the first things he will do when he gets into office is to the sign the Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA).
For those who do not know, the Freedom of Choice Act currently before the Congress, which Barack Obama sponsored as a Senator, will roll back all the restriction on abortion that the majority of Americans want and have voted in during the past 36 years. FOCA will invalidate for the entire country all restrictions on abortion including parental notifications, waiting periods, and partial birth abortions, yes - the brutal killing of 9-month old fetuses while they are in the birth canal, ready to be born.
FOCA also will attempt to force Catholic hospitals to adopt these evil measures. Thank God, Cardinal George of Chicago, the president of the National Council of Bishops, has told President-elect Obama and his team that, if FOCA is signed into law, the Catholic Church will close their Catholic hospitals rather than participate in evil. By the way, Catholic hospitals make up one third of all hospitals in the nation. Do you know what President-elect Obama’s team said to Cardinal George? “That’s OK! We’ll just buy your hospitals.” To which Cardinal George replied, “You didn’t hear me! I said that we will close our hospitals. You will have to build your own!” Good for him and all the Cardinals and Bishops standing with him! They are the new Cardinal Faulhabers, standing up against evil!
Brothers and sister, our Cardinal Roger Mahony has urged all of us in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles to get involved with a postcard campaign to turn back this terrible legislative act. As your pastor, I also strongly urge you to stand up and speak out. Hitler wanted the Church to remain silent in the face of all the atrocities of the first Holocaust, all in the name of progress and pride of a nation. Fortunately, a small group of great Christians, such as Cardinal Faulhaber, Dietrich Bonhoffer, Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg and others stood up and shouted in defiance. Ultimately, their voices were heard, but not before 10 million innocent people lost their lives in the Holocaust. Many in our government, in our nation, and sadly, even some in our Church today, want the Church to be silent about this new Holocaust. Many want the Church to not get involved in politics all in the name of economic prosperity, comfort, convenience, progress and pride of our nation. Many say that the Church should not say anything because there is a separation of Church and State.
I’ll tell you what: The Church and I won’t speak to or about politics if the government will stay out of our beloved Church and the Gospel. Once the government comes across that boundary, we will speak, and speak loudly. Brothers and sisters, don’t be intimidated, confused or deceived. Jesus is very clear what He wants us his faithful disciples to do. Let’s act with courage and faith. If we don’t, we will rue the day, as the German people still do now about the first Holocaust. If we don’t stand up and speak out, then we will stand condemned by future generations, and maybe even before God, because we failed to heed Edmond Burke’s admonition:
“The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men and women to do and say nothing.”

2009-03-19T05:42:00.001-07:00

Feast of St. Joseph,
Husband of Mary
"Behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, 'Rise, take the child and his mother, flee to Egypt. Joseph rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed for Egypt."
Matthew 2:13- 14

For Reflection:
St. Joseph responded to the word of God immediately. How quickly do I respond to God's word and the promptings of the Holy Spirit? St. Joseph's obedience to God saved his family from calamity. Can I remember a time when my obedience to God saved me from some disaster or unfortunate situation? To what extent will this help me to promptly obey God today and in the future?

2009-03-15T11:47:00.001-07:00

"It is human to fall, but angelic to rise again."
St. Mary Euphrasia Pelletier

For Reflection:
Ah, where does this bring hope to me today?

2009-03-06T16:56:00.000-08:00

Our church has weekly speakers during lent. Jordan and I went to see Gerry Straub on Tuesday. Gerry is a Secular Franciscan, is the founder and president of The San Damiano Foundation, which produces films that celebrate the spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi and the Franciscan concern for the poor, social justice, peace, non-violence, prayer and the integrity of creation. The San Damiano Foundation strives to put the power of film at the service of the poor. He is an incredible filmmaker who will touch you.

There is so much need in the world and we all can do more....much more

Copy and paste this link
http://www.sandamianofoundation.org/

once there scroll down and hit green play button to view film

Preparations for Lent

2009-02-24T12:40:00.001-08:00

Lent is a time of prayer, fasting, and repentance in preparation for the celebration of Christ’s Resurrection, Easter Sunday. Lent begins tomorrow February 25th, Ash Wednesday.

During this season we are called to reflect and meditate on the sufferings and passion of Jesus Christ. We are reminded that we cannot celebrate the joy of Easter without first encountering Christ’s suffering and death. It is through our lenten practices of prayer, self-denial and almsgiving that we hope to make reparation for our sins and overcome our self-centeredness and become more Christ-centered.

Our family started our pre-Lent planning last week. We decided as a family we would do the following things:

Say the Rosary as a family 3 days a week

Pray the Stations of the Cross every Friday

Prayer Basket- place names of family,friends, teachers etc. in the basket and each night at dinner we will pull out one or two names and lift those people up in prayer.
(got this idea from www.totustuusfamily.blogspot.com/)

Give up TV and computer on Monday, Thursday & Saturday

Tree of Life -On a white piece of poster board we paint a tree with bare branches. In purple letttering write a caption "See I make all things new" and "I have come that you may have life." The kids have already cut out leaves from green construction paper. At the end of each Lenten day each member, if they have been faithful to their Lenten resolutions, is able to glue one leaf on the tree. (Each person determines this for himself. No one checks up on anyone else) As we move through Lent our tree becomes more and more green, mirroring what is occuring in nature and more importantly in our souls

Do random acts of kindness for others throughout our day.

The journey of Lent is a wonderful time to draw yourself and family together in a more intimate relatonship with our Lord. Each day is a gift and we will all strive to keep our daily Lenten resolutions, if we fail, we simply humble ourselves and begin again.

Simone at the Horse Ranch

2009-02-21T16:22:00.000-08:00

Happy Gotcha Day Sweet Simone

2009-02-14T18:51:00.000-08:00

Gotcha day is the day that an adoptive child official becomes your child. All paperwork is signed and sealed..... a day of great celebration. Sweet Simone's day just happens to be on Valentine's Day, which means she also our little Valentine!

We adopted Simone when she was just 10 months old from Guatemala. It feels like she has been here forever. Actually, I can truly say that I feel like I gave birth to her. Simome is a cuddle bug and such a blessing to our family.

She will be turning 4 in May but she thinks she's 10...very smart and wants to keep up with her brothers and sisters. Simone brings laughter and joy to our home. Since she is the baby of the house she is loved up all the time by everyone.

We celebrated her day by going to the Natural History Museum in LA. The kids liked the gems the best. They actually sound like expert scientists, yacking all the way home about all the specifics of each type of gem.

We have three Gotcha Day's to celebrate each year, and I am so thankful to God for blessing us with three daughters. I never imagined that the girls would out number the boys, I remember when I was the only female with three males...interesting how God changed that!

2009-02-06T08:35:00.000-08:00

A friend sent this to me today. I thought it was worth posting.

A worried woman went to her gynecologist and said:
"Doctor, I have a serious problem and desperately need your
help! My baby is not even one year old and I'm pregnant
again. I don't want kids so close together."

"OK," the Doctor said, "OK, what do you want me to do?"

She said: "I want you to end my pregnancy, and I'm counting
on your help with this."

Her doctor thought for a moment and responded, "I think I
have a better solution for your problem. It's less dangerous for
you too."

She smiled, believing that the Doctor was going to accept her
request.

Then he continued: "You see, in order for you not to have to
take care of two babies at the same time, let's kill the one in
your arms. That way, you could rest some before the other one
is born. If we're going to kill one of them, it doesn't matter
which one it is. There would be no risk for your body if you
chose the one in your arms."

The lady was horrified saying: "No Doctor! How terrible! It's
a crime to kill a child!"

"I agree," the Doctor replied. "But you seemed to be OK with
it, so I thought maybe that was the best solution."

The wise doctor smiled, realizing that he had made his point.

He convinced the mom that there is no difference in killing a
child that's already been born and one that's still in the womb.

The sin in God's eyes is the same!

2009-02-01T15:40:00.000-08:00

After posting about Jordan's soccer success, it has made me reflect on the true gift he is to me. I do treasure him and and am so thankful that God blessed me with such a wonderful son. Life passes quickly and before you know it....time has slipped away. I want to savor these moments because I know with time he will be on a new chapter of his young adulthood. All 5 of my children are the greatest blessings of my life. Each life is sacred and each soul was created perfectly by God. Why do so many parents take these gifts....our children...given by God and hand them over to the world? So many children are not being raised by their parents. Do they not know that God blessed them (not a babysitter or daycare) with this precious life. The excuse is usually money....which is just an excuse, except for the single parent. Lifestyle is the root of passing the buck and freely handing your children over to a caregiver. I am passionate about this subject because the children suffer....just ask teachers about the behavior of most students in their classrooms. These children are starving for attention. Why is this so difficult for people to fathom....children need their parents. If you are sending your child to daycare/babysitter....have you ever asked God to change your situation and work wonders in your family? If you truly want God's help, He will open doors that you never dreamed were possible. All things are possible with God and each child deserves their parents.

Miracle of life video: copy and paste link to view http://www.catholicmediahouse.com/store/details/?pid=MM_HYP-0001

Jordan keeps on scoring!!!!

2009-01-31T07:51:00.000-08:00

Jordan is on fire and keeps on scoring. Watching Jordan in action on the soccer field is thrilling!!! He had an amazing goal yesterday and the parents went wild cheering! Yes, I am bragging.....but he is playing awesome. The high school season is coming to a close....only a few games left and it has been an excellent season for Jordan.

2009-01-23T15:51:00.000-08:00

"You are not a saint because you keep the rules and are blameless; you are a saint if you live in the real world, going out and loving the real people God has put into your life."
Sister Wendy Beckett

For Reflection:
According to Sister Wendy, how might I be saint-like today?

2009-01-13T20:15:00.000-08:00

"The Church of God needs saints today. This imposes a great responsibility on us. We must become holy, not because we want to feel holy, but because Christ must be able to live His life fully in us."

Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta

For Reflection:
How fully is Christ able to live His life in me?

2009-01-04T18:59:00.000-08:00

Feast of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton
(1774 - 1821)

"Live simply, so that all may simply live."
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

For Reflection:Today, I will do an examination of conscience according to this quote and ask myself these questions: "What two virtues are implicit in this quote?" "To what extent has a consumerist mentality prevented me from living these virtues?" What positive steps can I take, beginning today, to remedy this situation?"

2008-12-31T08:25:00.000-08:00

As this year comes to a close, I must stop and give thanks for the Blessings that God has bestowed upon our family. Our biggest Blessing was the gift of our new daughter, Nastia. We know she was placed with our family because this is truly the will of our Lord. She brings much joy and fun to our home. She is very sweet and has a caring and loving heart. She has many interest and is just fun to be around. I look forward to each day with her and love being her mother.

I am thankful for the good health of all of my children. So many kids are very ill and we can take for granted the good health of our own children. I ask for the prayers of sweet little Zoey and her family. Please click on her picture on my blog. This family has suffered so much and my heart aches for them. Please lift them up in your prayers.....Zoey is a Gem!

I am thankful that during this difficult financial time in our country, that Edward remains employed and busy. This bad economy is a reminder to all, not be wasteful and to live within our means. We are committed in "2009" to focus on being very wise with our money and purchases.

I am thankful for God's graces and blessings upon our family. We all remain committed to our faith. We continue to try and live out our faith, we only want God's plan and our open to His will and plan for each of us. A perfect example, the loss of the adoption of Dima....this adoption was not the will of God. It was sad for all of us, but we never dreamed His plan was Nastia! I cannot imagine life without her. I am so glad that we were prepared to change "our" plan and go with God's plan. As we all know, God's plan and path is always the most perfect and true way.

Our family is committed to keep asking these questions this coming year....

What can I do to become closer to God?
Can I see Jesus in diffcult times? Look...He never leaves us.
How can I help the poor?
Am I truly doing my best?
What am I committed to and why?
Who can I bless today?

Feast of the Holy Family

2008-12-28T20:22:00.000-08:00

The Feast of the Holy Family is not just about the Holy Family, but about our own families too. The main purpose of the Feast is to present the Holy Family as the model for all Christian families, and for domestic life in general. Our family life becomes sanctified when we live the life of the Church within our homes. This is called the "domestic church" or the "church in miniature." St. John Chrysostom urged all Christians to make each home a "family church," and in doing so, we sanctify the family unit. Just how does one live out the Church in the family? The best way is by making Christ and his Church the center of family and individual life. Ways to do this include: reading scripture regularly, praying daily, attending Mass at least on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation, imitating the actions of the Holy Family, and so forth, all done together as a family unit. In addition to cultivating positive actions, the Church understands that various actions and behaviors are contrary to God's Divine plan for the family, and these should be avoided. These include abortion, contraception, same-sex marriage, polygamy, embryonic stem-cell research, divorce, spousal abuse, child abuse, and co-habitation. Catholic Teaching is that a marriage must be open to children. Anything artificial that prevents this is contrary to divine law. Also, poverty, lack of health care, and other social justice concerns must be addressed by faithful Christians because of the negative effect these conditions have on the family unit.

St. Paul gives us some advice on family life in Colossians 3:12-21:

Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness, and patience, forbearing one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teach and admonish one another in all wisdom, and sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Wives, be subject to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them. Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged (RSV).

The Holy Family feast is a good time to remember the family unit and pray for our human and spiritual families. We also may take this feast to reflect on the value and sanctity of the family unit, and to evaluate our own family life. What ways may it be improved? What would Jesus, Mary, and Joseph do? Finally, we can use this feast to ask ourselves what are we doing to promote the family within our own cultures, neighborhoods, and communities.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T16:45:00.001-08:00

Quiet my heart, Lord,

and show me a Christmas

as peaceful and calm as

an old cattle shed...

Slow down my pace, Lord,

and help me seek Jesus,

the Son of Your Love,

in a humble straw bed...

Steady my spirit, Lord,

call me from chaos

in simple surrender

to pray and rejoice...

Breakthrough the busy,

too-bright celebration,

and whisper your message,

"Be still...hear my voice..."

Be still, and know that I am God..."

Psalm 46:10

Advent Examination of Conscience

2008-12-24T08:59:00.001-08:00

Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.

Have I greeted others with a blessing, or do I ignore or demean others?
Have I borne bitter fruit in my thoughts, words or deeds?

Why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me?

Have I denied my own worth or the worth of others?
Have I missed God's presence because I'm too busy, hurried, or anxious?

As soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy.

Have I been deaf to God's voice coming from unexpected people and encounters?
Have I grown so serious that I can't leap for joy?

My soul magnifies the Lord: and my spirit rejoices in God my savior.

Does my very being announce the goodness of God to others?
Do I rejoice with others as often as I can?

For God has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed.

Upon whom do I look favorably? Upon whom do I look with disapproval? Do I try to look on others with the love that God does?
Has my help for the lowly been more about giving handouts than about seeking justice?

For the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name.

When have I taken credit for what I have not done?
When have I denied my own participation in social injustice?

God has shown strength with his are; and has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their heart.

Have I been secretly arrogant or pride-filled?
Have I used my power, status, education, or religion to disparage others, even silently in my own heart?

God has brought down the powerful from their thrones and has lifted up the lowly.

Have I voted with a Christian conscience?
Do I live the gospel even at the cost of my own comfort?

God has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty.

Have I done enough to feed the hungry? What of those hungry for justice?
Have I become gluttonous for praise, luxury, or the security of others like me?

God has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants forever.

Have I broken my promises to others?
Will I leave this world a merciful, just, and beautiful place for future generations?

2008-12-24T08:45:00.000-08:00

Forgiveness
"For God so loved the world that He sent His only begotten Son that everyone who believed in Him might not perish but have life everlasting."
John 3:16

For Reflection:
Quote from Scripture tells us that God loves everyone. If God loves everyone, what right do I have to hold on to hatred and resentment? During this holy season, am I willing to forgive and to ask for forgiveness? With whom should I begin?

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

2008-12-08T20:52:00.000-08:00

Today is the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception-a holy day of obligation for all Catholics.

It’s important to understand what the doctrine of the Immaculate Conception is and what it is not. Some people think the term refers to Christ’s conception in Mary’s womb without the intervention of a human father; but that is the Virgin Birth. Others think the Immaculate Conception means Mary was conceived "by the power of the Holy Spirit," in the way Jesus was, but that, too, is incorrect. The Immaculate Conception means that Mary, whose conception was brought about the normal way, was conceived without original sin or its stain—that’s what "immaculate" means: without stain. The essence of original sin consists in the deprivation of sanctifying grace, and its stain is a corrupt nature. Mary was preserved from these defects by God’s grace; from the first instant of her existence she was in the state of sanctifying grace and was free from the corrupt nature original sin brings.

When discussing the Immaculate Conception, an implicit reference may be found in the angel’s greeting to Mary. The angel Gabriel said, "Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you" (Luke 1:28). The phrase "full of grace" is a translation of the Greek word kecharitomene. It therefore expresses a characteristic quality of Mary.

The traditional translation, "full of grace," is better than the one found in many recent versions of the New Testament, which give something along the lines of "highly favored daughter." Mary was indeed a highly favored daughter of God, but the Greek implies more than that (and it never mentions the word for "daughter"). The grace given to Mary is at once permanent and of a unique kind. Kecharitomene is a perfect passive participle of charitoo, meaning "to fill or endow with grace." Since this term is in the perfect tense, it indicates that Mary was graced in the past but with continuing effects in the present. So, the grace Mary enjoyed was not a result of the angel’s visit. In fact, Catholics hold, it extended over the whole of her life, from conception onward. She was in a state of sanctifying grace from the first moment of her existence.

2008-12-04T15:09:00.000-08:00

This poem describes my life....not a follower...nope that's never been me. My three daughters are a result of taking the road less traveled...how thankful I am for each of them.

ROAD LESS TRAVELED
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth

Then took the other as just as fair
And having perhaps the better claim
Because it was grassy and wanted wear
Though as for that, the passing there
Had worn them really about the same

And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet, knowing how way leads onto way
I doubted if I should ever come back

I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence
Two roads diverged in a wood
And I took the one less traveled by
And that has made all the difference

Robert Frost

Polish Madonna Art

2008-12-02T20:10:00.000-08:00

I find these Polish Madonna Art Paintings simple charming.
To view the fifty paintings by Wislawa Kwiatkowska,
go to: http://campus.udayton.edu/mary/polishexhibit.html

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T16:33:00.000-08:00

As I reflect over this last year, I give thanks to the many blessings in my life.

I am thankful for Edward and my children. I am thankful that God has blessed us with Nastia. I cannot even put into words the wonderful blessing that she is to each one of us. She is a gift....and I am blessed, honored and so thankful to be her mother.

God is and always will be as close as we choose Him to be. Such a simple thought and yes....simple is always best. I am thankful for my Catholic faith. I pray that I can always do the will of God. I continue to give thanks to God for the gift of all my children. I am thankful they are all healthy and our life is normal and ordinary.

There is so much need in the world....be a blessing to someone else.

2008-11-25T05:36:00.000-08:00

Is this man not the carpenter, the son of Mary, and the brother
of James and Joses...?

Accepting Truth Where Found

Jesus a local boy, taught in the snyagogue at Nazareth. The people were astonished, "What kind of wisdom has been given him?" Lack of faith made His neighbors reject Him (Mk 6:2-6).
Can I accept truth, direction, and even correction from regardless who forwards it? "Man's pride brings him low" (Pro 29:23). Exploring God's wisdom in whatever sort of clothing it comes to you requires faith and humility.

Pray for both of these virtues!

2008-11-15T06:57:00.000-08:00

"Life is not measured by the number of breathes we take,
but the number of moments that take our breathe away"

I love this quote! Carter has blessed me with many moments that take my breathe away. Last night I was reading a book in bed, Carter came in sat next next to me. He just stared at me like there was nothing he rather be doing. I put my book down and stared back at him. He is such a pure soul, so full of love. We chatted and held hands.....how sweet my precious boy is. I told him I was truly blessed to be his mom.

On another note, my big boy Jordan got his drivers license on Thursday! I was so excited that he passed the test. He is a very good driver and this is another step to his independence. He is such a gem. He has his last soccer game of the season today and then the high school season starts. This year is going by fast....before i know it the school year will be over and he will be a senior! I do savior these moments of having us all home.....I will miss Jordan when he leaves for college.

The girls....yes my 3 girls, are all doing excellent. The girls do out number the household these day. Tatiana is still singing in the choir and preparing for the Christmas concert. She is such a good girl and very helpful. Nastia is a doll and we just love her so much. She likes to dance and likes ballet. Nastia and Simone dance around the house in their leotards and ballet slippers. Simone wants to be just like Nastia. I must say Nastia is the best gift we could have ever given Simone! After the first of year, I am going to sign Nastia up for ballet. She is a natural and very graceful in her movements.

Life is normal and that's the way we like it. I have come to realize that the same day to day routine is OK.
We often, think these times can be boring and don't appreciate them until our life is hit by unexpected situations.

Happy Birthday Dima

2008-11-04T17:05:00.000-08:00

Jordan just edited this photo from his 2006 Christmas stay with us.

Today Dima turns 9 years old. We miss him very much. As most of you know, we hosted him Christmas of 2006. We then begun the process of adopting him. We were told one lie after another about his paperwork in the Ukraine. We redid our adoption dossier twice and still we were told he still wasn't registered on the Ukraine database, to allow him to be adopted outside his country. Well, the adoption world can be corrupt and we just found out a few days ago that another American family has adopted him. This was a big shocker, to say the least. I will not go into all of the specfic details, but it is just heart breaking.

We only care about his happiness and will pray that his new family loves him.
Dima is a love bug and we are all sad that we were lied to for the past two years. We have been thinking that we had not done enough and worried about him everyday in the orphanage. We are glad that he is no longer in the orphaange and does have a family, however, this family knew they were stealing him from his host family. This gives adoption a bad name and they broke the Ukrainan law, basically they paid the Ukrianain coordintor off to toss our paperwork. Just shameful!

Please pray for God to watch over this child all the days of his life.

2008-11-04T07:18:00.000-08:00

Election Day!

Please Vote... Every Vote Counts! Remember that we must uphold the 'Sanctity of Human Life' as Catholic Christians. Mother Teresa was a great advocate for life!

"If Abortion becomes legalized in rich countries, those countries truly are the poorest in the world."

"Do not kill the children. We will take care of them. That is why our orphanages are always filled with children."

- Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Please Pray

2008-11-02T06:54:00.000-08:00

My friend Heather has this poem posted on her blog. Please lift Heather up in pray. She is an incredible mother that has faced challenges that most of us will never encounter. Her daughter Zoey needs our prayers as she starts her chemo treatments. Please click on the picture of Zoey, (upper corner of my blog).

A Pair of Shoes

I am wearing a pair of shoes.
They are ugly shoes.
Uncomfortable shoes.
I hate my shoes.

Each day I wear them, and each
day I wish I had another pair.

Some days my shoes hurt so bad
that I do not think I can take
another step.

Yet, I continue to wear them.

I get funny looks wearing these shoes.

I can tell in others eyes that they
are glad they are my shoes and not
theirs.

They never talk about my shoes.

To learn how awful my shoes are
might make them uncomfortable.

To truly understand these shoes
you must walk in them.

But, once you put them on, you can
never take them off.

I now realize that I am not the
only one who wears these shoes.

There are many pairs in this world.

Some women ache daily as they try
and walk in them.

Some have learned how to walk in
them so they don't hurt quite as much.

Some have worn the shoes so long that
days will go by before they think about
how much they hurt.

No woman deserves to wear these shoes.

Yet, because of these shoes I am a
stronger woman.

These shoes have given me the strength
to face anything.

They have made me who I am.

I will forever walk in the shoes of a
woman who has a child with cancer.

*Author Unknown*

2008-10-26T06:53:00.000-07:00

Why be Catholic?

There are a lot of very good reasons for being a Catholic, for remaining a Catholic or for returning to the Catholic Church. I suppose one of the main reasons would be that the Catholic Church has been around since the time of Jesus, has its roots in the Hebrew Scriptures, and best fulfills the model of church presented in the Christian Scriptures. Over the centuries splinter groups have broken off, subdivided and multiplied but the Catholic Church still continues to exist with its varied history of victories and defeats, successes and failures, rights and wrongs, saints and sinners.

But the answer to the question why Catholicism is not to be found so much in intellectual arguments or reasoned debates but in our hearts. An atheist or an agnostic, a pagan or a non-believer can be well versed in all the reasons for belief, have vast knowledge of history and the life of Christ and still be lacking in faith.

Belief comes not so much from the head as it does from the heart. Belief basically is more about loving than it is about knowing. Belief is concerned with the love of God and all of his creation, with love of our neighbor made in the image and likeness of God loving them in all their poverty and need, with love of a church and its Sacraments, with love of ourselves with all our woundedness and weakness, with love of a crucified Christ who came not to condemn the world but to save it.

Why Catholicism? First and foremost the Eucharist comes to mind. Jesus has left us a memorial of his passion in the Mass and the gift of himself in the Eucharist. “I will be with you all days even to the end of the world”. Our Catholic belief is that Jesus is really and truly present in the Eucharist. “This is my body. This is my blood. Do this in remembrance of me”. Jesus is present in the Eucharist to strengthen us, nourish us and encourage us. “Come to me all you who labor and are heavily burdened and I will refresh you”. Jesus gives himself to us in the Eucharist not because we are good but because God is good, Not because we merit such a sublime gift but because we need it. We need it to be able to live a spiritual life, to be nourished and strengthened, to experience the love, mercy, understanding and forgiveness of a compassionate God who loves us unconditionally.

Why Catholicism? Because through all the centuries of its existence it has always been able to address its weakness, to correct its mistakes, to constantly reform itself. Because, like it or not, it always holds up the highest standards of truth and morality yet is understanding and forgiving when we find ourselves falling short of its sublime ideals. Because of its sacramental system that meets all of our needs. Baptism to incorporate us, Confirmation to strengthen us, Reconciliation to forgive us, Eucharist to nourish us, Matrimony to sanctify our human love, the Sacrament of the Sick to heal us and Ordination to continue the priesthood of Christ.

Why Catholicism? Because it’s worldwide, welcoming wherever we may be. Because it is a family with room for everyone, the good and the bad, the strong and the weak, the saint and the sinner. Because of it richness and beauty, its dogmas and truths, its devotion to Mary the mother of Jesus. Because it provides meaning and purpose to our lives in a world that is too often confused overly materialistic, greedy selfish, unjust and arrogant, secular, unhappy and unfulfilled.

Why Catholicism? Because of its love for and care of the poor, marginalized and needy. Because of its social awareness and responsibility which causes it to sponsor, fund and staff hospitals and nursing homes, daycare centers and schools, literacy programs and immigration services, hospices and homeless shelters, soup kitchens and food pantries, battered women shelters, pregnancy centers and hospital beds and care for AIDS patients. Because it preeminently fulfils the two great commandments to love God and love our neighbor.

Why Catholicism? Because while it challenges us always to be our very best, it also realizes that God lovingly settles for the best we can do humanly speaking aware of our woundedness, weakness and sinfulness plus the baggage we have accumulated through the years. Because it constantly assures us of God’s love and reminds us that Christ’s death on the cross and his resurrection makes up for our shortcomings and sinfulness. Because it reminds us that Jesus came to save the world, not to condemn it. Because it proclaims that a loving God will accept our feeble efforts, encourage and help us with his grace, lovingly forgive us and in the end welcome us into the Kingdom of God.

Why Catholicism? Because it’s vibrant and thrilling, exciting and challenging, sustaining and comforting, interesting, appealing, helpful, caring and compassionate.

Father Stephen

Jordan's Lastest Photo's

2008-10-23T20:20:00.001-07:00

Nastia, Simone, Carter & Tatiana

2008-10-22T10:12:00.001-07:00

The Rosary

"Contemplating the scenes of the Rosary in union with Mary is a means of learning from her to 'read' Christ, to discover his secrets and to understand his message."
Pope John Paul II

For Reflection:
To what extent is Mary helping me to "read" Jesus better? What impact is this having on my life of prayer and my daily life?

A Challenge for the World

2008-10-19T07:45:00.001-07:00

Do you think there are ANY circumstances in which abortion is acceptable??
If you answer yes to this question - go HERE, watch the video and then tell me you still think this way.

The world will not reject abortion until the world SEES abortion.

This video can be viewed in either english or spanish.

2008-10-16T05:52:00.000-07:00

Hope Does Not Disappoint - By Rick Santorum Philadelphia Inquirer - Publication Date: September 25, 2008

Twelve years ago tomorrow I led an unsuccessful effort to override President Clinton’s veto of the Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act, which banned a late-term abortion procedure that pro-choice forces argued was necessary to terminate pregnancies that had gone awry. Sen. Dianne Feinstein defined “awry” as “fetuses with severe birth defects . . . fetuses with no eyes, ears, mouths, legs or kidneys.”

Because of Sarah Palin’s son Trig, who has Down syndrome, America is now aware that more than 90 percent of children with significant birth defects are aborted, often late in pregnancy. Over the past few months, several personal experiences have led me to ponder how I and our country should see these imperfect children.

Four months ago, Karen and I were blessed with our eighth child, Bella, who three days later was diagnosed with Trisomy 18, a syndrome with a mortality rate of more than 90 percent in the first year. I subsequently discovered that a friend’s 12-year-old son, Brendan, who also had Down syndrome, had a reoccurrence of leukemia. Then, two weeks ago, a friend’s father performed a heroic act to save the life of his 20-year-old son with Down syndrome. And 12 years ago next week, our family will commemorate the date when we were told that Karen’s fourth pregnancy had gone “awry.”

I’ve recalled Condoleezza Rice’s remarks at the National Prayer Breakfast: “American slaves used to sing, ‘Nobody knows the trouble I’ve seen - Glory Hallelujah!’ Growing up, I would often wonder at the seeming contradiction contained in this line. I believe this same message is found in the Bible in Romans 5, where we are told to ‘rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint.’ ” Amen!

This May, as our family was trying to come to grips with the news about our newborn baby, our priest told us of visiting our friends’ son Brendan at the hospital before his chemotherapy treatment. Brendan didn’t want the treatment because he knew it would make him very sick. Father told him he was not alone in his suffering, that another child like him, our daughter, was struggling in intensive care. Brendan said: “I’ll do it and give up my suffering for Bella.”

At the Republican Convention, I watched little Trig Palin “wave” to the crowd, have his hair spit shined by his big sister Piper, and have an emotional mom pledge solidarity with parents of special kids. We all glimpsed both the joy and the difficulty of having a disabled child.
Thomas VanderWoude, 66, was working in the yard with his youngest son, Joseph. “Josie” fell though a piece of metal that covered a small opening to their septic tank. VanderWoude jumped into the six-foot deep tank and pushed his unconscious heavier son from below to keep Josie’s head above the muck. After some 15 minutes rescue workers pulled them both out. Only Josie survived.

I keep thinking of the Christian narrative of the Savior jumping into the squalor of this world to suffer an ignominious death to lift up and save our defective souls.And 12 years ago, Karen and I discovered via ultrasound halfway through the pregnancy that our baby had a fatal birth defect. We knew we could not end our suffering by ending his life, so instead of giving him a death sentence, we gave him a name, Gabriel Michael.Despite the best medical care, he died shortly after his birth. Karen’s book, Letters to Gabriel, chronicled her struggle. It turned out that her book and the story of Gabriel’s life have saved many lives and comforted many parents. In a country where some politicians now promise to end suffering, and where our usefulness seems to be measured in dollars, these special individuals stand as complex, mysterious contradictions from a loving God. They remind us that it is not just our capacity to achieve, but our capacity for sacrificial love that will change the character of America for the good. And that character will inspire true hope - and that hope does not disappoint.

Motherhood is a Gift

2008-10-12T07:03:00.000-07:00

We can see God each day in in the smiles and tears of our children. God is so close that we often miss Him. Many are looking for some big moment and forget that all the little day to day acts are where our Lord is present.

Motherhood is not held in high esteem in our society anymore. Isn't it interesting that people can be so judgemental about the number of children a family has. Why do you think people no longer celebrate the family and motherhood? Having a career outside of motherhood, is held more highly than raising the saints that God has placed in our care. Each child is planted by God in our family. I believe that our society is in grave danger because the family life is no longer held sacred. How do we change this? I believe we pay attention to our own family, pray and make our request known to God. Pray to God.....He hears every pray. Then the peace of God, the presence of love, will fill your home. If we choose carefully what we do and not neglect our family we can begin to make a difference.

Many mothers are pulled in so many directions that the world owns them. They believe the lie that placing our children in the care of others is God's will. This is a lie.....this lie gets justified because of money. If we all lived within our means our families would be better off. Of course there are circumstances where a woman has to work outside the home. However, most of the time it is because of money and that a certain lifestyle must be maintained. Most of the time it is a choice and that choice does affect your family. How can it not.....nobody cares for their child better than their own mother. It is true that the day to day chores of running your home is not glamorous, but you are raising the saints God gave you. Do not sacrifice your family. Most mothers that have already raised their children and did not work outside the home ,will always advise on the importance of not working outside the home. That voice of wisdom is something we should all listen to. They know that you cannot get time back and your children do know who raised them. Ask yourself.....who raised you? Your children will answer this same question. Are you paying attention and raising the gifts God has placed in your care?

Quotes on Parenting

2008-10-09T06:14:00.000-07:00

The greatest gift you can give to your children is you. Spend time with them, help them through their struggles, and love them through their behaviors.

Parenting is not about controlling our children through consequences and directives. These are fear-based parenting techniques that teach our children to be reactive out of fear. Parenting is about influencing our children through love and understanding. This teaches our children to respond out of love. Thus, true control comes through loving influence.

No matter whether your children rise or fall, they should never be alone. They need you there to celebrate with them on the mountain of success and they especially need you in the valley of failure.

Life is a series of appointments, not accidents. Each interaction we have with our spouse or child is an appointment set in advance by God. How are you going to conduct these Divine meetings today?

Heather T. Forbes, L.C.S.W.
Beyond Consequences Institute, LLC

What can One Person Do?

2008-10-08T11:18:00.000-07:00

October 8, 2008
St. John Leonardi
(1541?-1609)

"I am only one person! Why should I do anything? What good would it do?" Today, as in any age, people seem plagued with the dilemma of getting involved. In his own way John Leonardi answered these questions. He chose to become a priest.

After his ordination, he became very active in the works of the ministry, especially in hospitals and prisons. The example and dedication of his work attracted several young laymen who began to assist him. They later became priests themselves.

John lived in a time of reform after the Reformation and the Council of Trent. He and his followers projected a new congregation of diocesan priests. For some reason the plan, which was ultimately approved, provoked great political opposition and he was an exile from his home town of Lucca, Italy, for almost the entire remainder of his life. He received encouragement and help from St. Philip Neri [whose feast is May 26], who gave him his quarters—along with the care of his cat!

Quote:
"Do not be afraid any longer, little flock, for your Father is pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your belongings and give alms. Provide money bags for yourselves that do not wear out, an inexhaustible treasure in heaven that no thief can reach nor moth destroy" (Luke 12:32-33).
(This entry appears in the print edition of Saint of the Day.)

Comment:
What can one person do? If you ever glanced through a Christopher Notes pamphlet you know—plenty! In the life of each saint one thing stands clear: God and one are a majority! What one person, following God's will and plan for his or her life, can do is more than our mind could ever hope for or imagine. Each of us, like John Leonardi, has a mission to fulfill in God's plan for the world. Each one of us is unique and has been given talent to use for the service of our brothers and sisters for the building up of God's kingdom.

2008-10-04T06:49:00.000-07:00

Feast day of
St. Francis of Assisi (1182-1226)
Morning Prayer of St. Francis
Lord Jesus, I offer you this new day because I believe in you, love you, hope all things in you, and thank you for your blessings.I am sorry for having offended you and forgive everyone who has offended me.Lord, look on me and leave in me peace and courage and your humble wisdom that I may serve others with joy, and be pleasing to you all day.

Francis of Assisi was poor only that he might be Christ-like. He loved nature because it was another manifestation of the beauty of God. He did great penance (apologizing to "Brother Body" later in life) that he might be totally disciplined for the will of God. His poverty had a sister, humility, by which he meant total dependence on the good God. But all this was, as it were, preliminary to the heart of his spirituality: living the gospel life, summed up in the charity of Jesus and perfectly expressed in the Eucharist.

Quote:

"We adore you and we bless you, Lord Jesus Christ, here and in all the churches which are in the whole world, because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world" (St. Francis).
(This entry appears in the print edition of Saint of the Day.)

.

2008-10-03T20:06:00.000-07:00

Do not look forward to what may happen tomorrow; the same everlasting Father who cares for you today will take care of you tomorrow and every day. Either He will shield you from suffering or He will give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace, then, put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginations and say continually: "The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart has trusted in Him and I am helped. He is not only with me but in Me and I in Him."

- St. Francis de Sales, patron saint of writers

2008-09-28T06:12:00.000-07:00

When you truly give your heart to God and only want His will, your life becomes amazing an journey. Nastia is truly met to be in our family. It feels like she has been here her whole life. We are so blessed to have this beautiful soul to love and cherish. I give all the credit to God. If God was not directing each step then she would not be here. This has nothing to do with us and is the will of God. Whenever we try to make something happen, then we have to continue to make it work through our own efforts. When God makes something happen ,He has to continue to make it work. That is why it is so much better to get out of the way and let God open all doors and direct our path.

Nastia has many talents. She likes to create and has been sewing clothes for the girls and for their dolls. I keep telling her she is an amazing seamstress. She made a skirt for Simone for a play that the girls are doing for us. She also likes playing math and reading games on the computer. Carter (our computer expert) has been helping her. Jordan has been teaching her how to play soccer. She has been reading and doing her school work. We have gone to the library several times and bring home stacks of books. Tatiana and Nastia like to read in their beds before they go to sleep. Our home now has 5 scholars! We believe in creating a learning environment in our home where the kids thrive on learning.

Today we are going to bake cookies. The kids love to bake and of course eating the cookie batter is fun. Tatiana is singing in the children's choir at 9am Mass. She joined the choir this year and likes it. Nastia can join next year, you have to be in third grade. This will be a great day. We have many reasons to give thanks.

Nastia is Home

2008-09-17T05:20:00.000-07:00

Many of you know that we are in the process of completing the court paperwork to adopt Nastia, who is an 8 years old Ukrainian girl. She was adopted 20 months ago by another family. In respect for the other family's privacy, I will not give specific details of why she was placed for adoption with us. I will say that the other family's intention for placing her with us was to make this her final placement. They want her to be successful in our home.

I brought Nastia home on Saturday and she fits right into our family. We are blessed by God that we are her new family. Words can truly not express how we feel, we are so very thankful. All of the kids are so happy to have a new sister and are really stepping up to the plate to make her feel welcome in her new home.

A few months ago, I was praying for God to enlarge my life. Isn't it interesting that every time we pray for a God to use us however He wants, that great things happen. Everything with Nastia's adoption is just falling into place. I believe that this is truly the will of God. I have had nothing but complete peace and know that this all God.......I am just listening to His voice and going where he leads me. I am blessed to live this amazing life and to be the mother of all of my children.

Woman's Spirtiual Call

2008-09-12T08:52:00.000-07:00

As Christian women we are called to collaborate in the salvation of the world through the vocation of motherhood, whether it is exercised spiritually or physically.

A unique privilege of our Blessed Mother’s motherhood was her ability to give Christ to the world both physically and spiritually. -Marianne Evans Mount

Dear Lord,

In my imagination, I picture the Blessed Virgin Mary as she enters her cousin Elizabeth’s house. What joy she brought there that day! Mary carried Jesus to that home and Salvation entered the soul of Elizabeth and the soul of the baby she carried in her womb! In this, I see Mary as physical mother and spiritual mother. Pregnant with the life of Christ, she “birthed” Him in others. This is the role to which you call all women. May I conceive Jesus in my heart and carry Him to the hearts of others. Amen.

Scripture Passage for Meditation:

And Mary said, “My soul doth magnify the Lord. And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior. Because he hath regarded the humility of his handmaid; for behold from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. Because he that is mighty, has done great things for me; and holy is his name (Luke 1:46-49). Douay-Rheims

Daily Reflection:
Through my vocation as woman, the Lord has done great things for me and invites me to do great things in His name. Do I believe this? Identify anything that holds me back from believing this.Surrender this to Jesus.

To be willing to undertake great things for God and for our neighbor is called magnanimity. It presupposes greatness of soul and nobility of character. How does the Blessed Mother demonstrate this virtue? To what extent is this virtue present in me? Mary’s soul magnifies the Lord. What does this mean? To what extent does my soul magnify Him?

St. Elizabeth recognized the presence of Jesus in Mary. In what ways is the presence of Jesus evident in me? How do I give “birth” to Him in the everyday circumstances of my life and in the lives of others? Is there more I can do? What?

Do I need to make changes (in my thinking, in my activities, in my attitudes) to accommodate my feminine mission? If so, what are they?

2008-09-08T08:54:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Blessed Mother!

Birthday celebrations bring happiness to the celebrant as well as to family and friends. Next to the birth of Jesus, Mary's birth offers the greatest possible happiness to the world. Each time we celebrate her birth we can confidently hope for an increase of peace in our hearts and in the world at large.

Mary always points us to God, reminding us of God's infinite goodness. She helps us to open our hearts to God's ways, wherever those may lead us. Honored under the title “Queen of Peace,” Mary encourages us to cooperate with Jesus in building a peace based on justice, a peace that respects the fundamental human rights (including religious rights) of all peoples.

The kids are making a birthday cake and picking flowers to honor Mary on her birthday.

School Update

2008-09-04T05:21:00.001-07:00

Simone is so excited to start her first day of preschool. Yesterday was a parent/ child day in the classroom. Her teacher happens to be the same teacher Jordan had when he was 4 years old. Simone will go just on Tuesday & Thursday from 9am-11:30am. She loves playing and then she will be ready for mommy to pick her up and take her to lunch.

The rest of the gang is on their 2nd week of school. They are all doing great and like their teachers. Carter and Tatiana are both in 4th grade and have have Mr. Borchard. They really like him, all of the kids want him for a teacher. Jordan really likes his schedule and all of his teachers, he is now a junior! He is blessed to be at Oaks Christian School. He is going on a mission trip to India during their February winter break. He really wants to go and is filling out all of the required paperwork. He is also considering going to Africa on the summer mission trip. I feel these are opportunities that will allow him to grow and experience the world.....all of the joys and sufferings.

2008-08-29T11:23:00.000-07:00

Humility
"It constantly happens that the Lord permits a soul to fall so that it may grow humbler. When it is honest, and realizes what it has done, and returns, it makes ever- increasing progress in our Lord's service."
St. Teresa of Avila

For Reflection:
While this quote does not give me permission to sin, it does help me to see that God works all things to the good, and even my mistakes can be an occasion for spiritual growth. About what one situation, circumstance, failing, fault, or sin does this speak most to me about today? I will praise God for His love and never failing mercy.

Hummingbirds

2008-08-25T19:14:00.000-07:00

We love to watch all of the cute hummingbirds that visit our flowers. Simone talks to them and thinks they are her pets.

Lengends say that hummingbirds float free of time, carrying our hopes for love, joy and celebration. Like a hummingbird, we aspire to hover and savor each moment as it passes, embrace all that life has to offer and to celebrate the joy of everyday. The hummingbird's delicate grace reminds us that life is rich, beauty is everywhere, every personal connection has meaning and that laughter is life's sweetest creation.

2008-08-24T06:44:00.000-07:00

Did you know that your teenage daughter can have an abortion and you do not need to be notified. In the state of California, a parent does not need to be notified. Yes, this our law.....we must do our part and change this law. Please vote Yes on 4....and change this unbelievable and unexceptional law. We must protect our daughters, nieces, sisters, granddaughters....oh, children.....YES they still are children......I guess our crazy world has forgotten this.
Please do your part and protect our children.

Sarah’s story
Sarah was only 15 years old when she died from a legal abortion. She was injured during the procedure and developed a massive infection. Her parents weren't told about the abortion and didn't know what was wrong with her. By the time she was taken to the hospital, it was too late. Sarah's family could have saved her -- had they known.

The problem
In California, a girl under age 18 can’t get a tan at a tanning salon, a cavity filled, or an aspirin dispensed by the school nurse without a parent knowing. But a doctor can perform a surgical or chemical abortion on a young girl without informing a parent.

The answer
Proposition 4 will require a doctor to notify at least one adult family member before performing an abortion on an under-18-year-old girl.

Facts
Medical professionals know that a young person is safer when a parent or family member is informed of her medical situation. Someone who knows the girl and cares about her future can help her understand all her options, obtain competent care, and work through the problems that led her into the situation to begin with. On a daily basis, older men exploit young girls and use secret abortions to cover up their crimes. More than thirty states currently have parental/family involvement laws like Proposition 4 in effect. States which have laws like Proposition 4 have experienced real reductions in pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases among young girls.

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=kQbxxjOWYH4&feature=related

Help pass Sarah's Law by voting

Sarah's Law YES ON Prop 4

2008-08-19T05:58:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Carter

Today we celebrate Carter's 9th birthday. Carter has a full day of shopping planned. He loves to shop and is a very selective shopper. He wants to spend his birthday money on a PSP..........for those of you unfamiliar with that term , it is gaming system. Anyway, my birthday boy awoke at 5:30am with the biggest smile and ready to start his adventurous day. Carter is a very unique soul. I am very blessed to be his mother. He is such a wonderful gift........such a blessing.

2008-08-13T08:11:00.000-07:00

Jordan is 16 today

Happy Birthday

I can't believe Jordan is 16, time has gone by so fast! I am proud to say that Jordan is an exceptional gem. A truly remarkable and exceptional person. I am so proud that Jordan is my son. He is a true gift and blessing from the Lord. He has many wonderful talents and will do great things in his life. He has always made me smile, laugh, and just so proud to be his mom.

Happy Birthday Jordan we love you!!!!

Sweet Simone

2008-08-11T19:35:00.000-07:00

Simone is the love bug of our home. She makes us all smile and laugh. I am so thankful each day that she is my daughter. I truly cannot not imagine my life without her. I often think of what her life would have been like if she had remained in Guatemala. It breaks my heart that there are so many beautiful children in this world that have no home. We Americans, have so many comforts and our life styles often do not lend a second to anything else but "our little world" where we don't have to think about orphanages, foster care system, and neglected children etc. Actually, most people do not think about any of these issues on a regular basis. Our society has become numb and distracted by all of the noise and busyness of this world. People are always so shocked (not in a bad way) that we have adopted and are still planning on adopting. I have to stop and ask myself, what is there to be so shocked about? We are not doing any great noble act to be praised. We are simply.... yes simply...... loving and caring for God's children. We are only here on this earth for a flicker. We need to live by faith. Without faith we would all be driven to despair. Fear holds us back from doing great things for God. Prayer reminds us of what is really important. Prayer awakens us to our true needs. Prayer reveals the deepest desires of our hearts. Prayer gifts us with purpose and direction. Prayer guides us to do amazing things and gets us out of our comfort zones. Prayer has opened the door and guided our way to be blessed with this beautiful face.........Simone.

The Gentle Voice Within

2008-08-10T14:41:00.000-07:00

The Rhythm Of Life by Matthew Kelly

There is a gentle voice within each of us. When we are children, we hear this voice with great clarity and we live by what we hear. So we are immensely happy.

As we grow older, we become aware of all the other voices that surround us- the voices of parents, siblings, friends, critics, television, strangers, and experts.

All these voices have the strength and confidenace of experience, so we vecome fascinated with them. And as we enter into this fascination with all these other voices, they begin to distract us from the gentle voice within.

As we begin to listen to all these other voices, we begin to doubt, question, and ignore the gentle voice within. And gradually, the one true voice within each of us growa fainter and fainter.

Finally, when the gentle voice within us has become ao faint that we can hardly hear it anymore in the midst of our daily activity, we are told that we have grown up, that we are adults, and that we are now ready for life.

Nothing could be further from the truth.

The gentle voice within is your truest guide. It has absolutely no self-interest. That is what sets it apart from every other voice in your life. The gentle voice within you is interested in only one thing, helping you become the-best-version-of-yourself.

2008-08-07T07:28:00.000-07:00

Humility

"Pride makes us forgetful of our eternal interests.
It causes us to neglect totally the care of our soul."

St. John Baptist de la Salle

For Reflection:
Think of a prideful person you know. To what extent have you seen this quote to be true?
What does this encourage you to do regarding your own spiritual life?

2008-07-30T18:38:00.000-07:00

Carter had his monthly orthodontist appointment today and Simone left a lasting impression on a mother in the office. The mother was admiring Simone and thought she was so cute and smart. Simone was talking non-stop about the book she was looking at. The woman asked me how me how many children I had, I told her 4 and that we had adopted Simone 2 years ago. The woman also has 4 children and said she always wanted more and after meeting Simone, she said that she felt like it was a sign for her to have a 5th child through adoption. Isn't it interesting how God places us at the right place at exactly the right time. There are just no coincidences. We are all here on this earth for a purpose and it so exciting to watch our purpose unfold as God grants us special favors and graces.

Huntington Library

2008-07-27T15:20:00.000-07:00

We ventured off today to the Huntington Library in Pasadena. It has 120 acres of beautiful gardens, three art galleries and a library. To learn more go to http://www.huntington.org/.

click on picture to view larger

Growing our Family through Adoption

2008-07-26T11:10:00.000-07:00

We still are not sure if Dima's adoption will ever happen. We have no news and cannot move forward until he is actually registered with the government office in the Ukraine. I will keep everyone updated as we gain information if we can actually ever move forward.

Edward and I are moving forward with growing our family through adoption. We plan on adopting a child from 3-6 years old and are currently preparing and gathering information to start this adoption. It is funny, because many of my friends have 6 kids+ and continue to grow their families.....and the things people say are just flat out rude about having that many kids. Most people that make these comments either have no children or very few children. What is true, the more children you adopt (or birth) the more rude remarks you hear.....I know sad but very true. I, as well as my many friends who have adopted, know this is a reflection on them and not us. Most people who judge what you are doing are not happy people and have nothing better to do with their time then judge. Who are any us, to say how many children a family should have. I am thankful for my parents who have always supported each of our adoptions and are thrilled for us. When Dima was here, they loved him up the entire time. My parents are the best grandparents any child could ever wish for! I will keep you all updated on this beautiful life that we are blessed to live.

2008-07-26T08:10:00.000-07:00

Patience
"God gives us the vision, then He
takes us down to the valley to batter
us into the shape of the vision, and it
is in the valley that so many of us
faint and give way. Every vision will
be made real if we will have
patience."
Oswald Chambers

For Reflection:
How have I done in my "valley"
experiences? Has patience kept me
steadfast or have I given way so that
God's desires for me have not been accomplished?

Happy Baptism Day to Sweet Simone

2008-07-23T14:41:00.000-07:00

Simone was baptized 2 years ago today. God has truly blessed our family with this child. She is such a spark of love. Deacon John, who bapitized her, has gone home to be with the Lord. He past away one year ago and was such a wonderful man. We are very honored that he was the one to baptize Simone.

Enjoy the video ***Turn my music off at the bottom on my music playlist (scroll down) before playing video*** If you need help Granny call me.

2008-07-19T07:56:00.000-07:00

Patience

"Whenever anything disagreeable or displeasing happens to you, remember Christ crucified and be silent."
St. John of the Cross

For Reflection:To what extent would I be called a "complainer?" How can patience help me overcome this?

2008-07-18T08:18:00.000-07:00

I fly to Your Mercy, Compassionate God, Who alone are good. Although my misery is great and my offenses are many, I trust in Your Mercy because You are the God of Mercy, and it has never been heard of in all ages, nor do Heaven or Earth remember, that a soul trusting in Your Mercy has been disappointed.

(State your intentions)

Jesus, Friend of a lonely heart, You are my haven.
You are my peace.
You are my salvation.
You are my serenity in moments of struggle and amidst an ocean of doubts.
Amen

A novena is a nine-day period of private or public prayer to obtain special graces, to implore special favors, or to make special petitions.

Background of the Divine Mercy Devotion

From the diary of a young Polish nun, a special devotion began spreading throughout the world in the 1930s. The message is nothing new, but is a reminder of what the Church has always taught through scripture and tradition:that God is merciful and forgiving and that we, too, must show mercy and forgiveness. But in the Divine Mercy devotion, the message takes on a powerful new focus, calling people to a deeper understanding that God’s love is unlimited and available to everyone — especially the greatest sinners.

The message and devotion to Jesus as The Divine Mercy is based on the writings of Saint Faustina Kowalska, an uneducated Polish nun who, in obedience to her spiritual director, wrote a diary of about 600 pages recording the revelations she received about God’s mercy. Even before her death in 1938, the devotion to The Divine Mercy had begun to spread.
The message of mercy is that God loves us — all of us —no matter how great our sins. He wants us to recognize that His mercy is greater than our sins, so that we will call upon Him with trust, receive His mercy, and let it flow through us to others. Thus, all will come to share His joy. It is a message we can call to mind simply by remembering ABC.

A — Ask for His Mercy. God wants us to approach Him in prayer constantly, repenting of our sins and asking Him to pour His mercy out upon us and upon the whole world.

B — Be merciful. God wants us to receive His mercy and let it flow through us to others. He wants us to extend love and forgiveness to others just as He does to us.

C — Completely trust in Jesus. God wants us to know that the graces of His mercy are dependent upon our trust. The more we trust in Jesus, the more we will receive.

The Divine Mercy Devotion
Devotion to The Divine Mercy involves a total commitment to God as Mercy. It is a decision to trust completely in Him, to accept His mercy with thanksgiving, and to be merciful as He is merciful. The devotional practices proposed in the diary of Saint Faustina are completely inaccordance with the teachings of the Church and are firmly rooted in the Gospel message of our Merciful Savior. Properly understood and implemented, they will help us grow as genuine followers of Christ.

Simone at the Beach

2008-07-15T15:48:00.000-07:00

2008-07-14T19:12:00.000-07:00

Decalogue for Daily Living

1. Only for today, I will seek to live the livelong day positively without wishing to solve the problems of my life all at once.

2. Only for today, I will take the greatest care of my appearance: I will dress modestly; I will not raise my voice; I will be courteous in my behavior; I will not criticize anyone; I will not claim to improve or to discipline anyone except myself.

3. Only for today, I will be happy in the certainty that I was created to be happy, not only in the other world but also in this one.

4. Only for today, I will adapt to circumstances, without requiring all circumstances to be adapted to my own wishes.

5. Only for today, I will devote ten minutes of my time to some good reading, remembering that just as food is necessary to the life of the body, so good reading is necessary to the life of the soul.

6. Only for today, I will do one good deed and not tell anyone about it.

7. Only for today, I will do at least one thing I do not like doing; and it my feelings are hurt, I will make sure no one notices.

8. Only for today, I will make a plan for myself: I may not follow it to the letter, but I will make it. And I will be on guard against two evils: hastiness and indecision.

9. Only for today, I will firmly believe, despite appearances, that the good Providence of God cares for me as no one else who exists in this world.

10. Only for today, I will have no fears. In particular, I will not be afraid to enjoy what is beautiful and to believe in goodness. Indeed, for twelve hours I can certainly do what might cause me consternation were I to believe I had to do it all my life.

Bl. Pope John XXIII

Happy 45th Anniversary Mom& Dad

2008-07-12T20:06:00.000-07:00

Today marks 45 years of marriage for my parents. That is quite a milestone in this day and age when most marriages don't last. Marriage is said by some saints to be the most difficult vocation. Staying together in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, shows a heroic degree of virtue. The problem in the world today is it wants to be happy by getting, not giving; something that runs counter to the basic rules of human living. Happiness which marriage promises, is not possible without generosity and sacrifice. Only by losing and giving ourselves- can we begin to find ourselves and, even more than ourselves, find the happiness we are made for.

It is our purpose in marriage and in life to become saints. To be the example to our children. What could be more exciting, and more thrilling than being a saint and raising saints? Saints do great things. They change the world. My parents have 4 children and 9 grandchildren all called to be saints and change the world.

HAPPY 45th WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

Blessed and Thankful

2008-07-11T07:16:00.000-07:00

I am so thankful for my wonderful family. God has truly blessed me and I remain in complete awe of the graces that have been bestowed upon me.

THANKFUL FOR:
My dear hubby who works so hard to take care of us. Who never complains and puts up with me, the high maintenance wife.

All of my sweet children.
Jordan: Who amazes me each day, he has now become the chef and menu planner. He starts volunteering in the ER at Pleasant Valley Hospital on Monday. He continues to write his movie scripts and create.

Carter: Carter and I went for a walk last night (just the two of us) he held my hand most of the entire walk. He talked and talked the entire time because he has so much to say..........his future wife will be happy with his communication skills! Carter makes me feel like a million bucks and is the most unique soul that most will ever meet.

Tatiana: Tatiana is so very kind and helpful. She has a nice peaceful spirit and is always happy. I am thankful that she is my usual walking partner because we share many special girl conversations. Also, she can walk much faster and longer that Carter. She is a blessing.

Simone: My little rascal is such hug bug. Every night she climbs out of bed and we have to tell her to get back in bed..........but she needs one more hug. Then she yells out "I love you mom". She keeps us all smiling and busy with finding out what she us up to!

Life is very brief and we are truly only here for a flicker. Count your blessing ask God to bless you and grant your family special favor and graces. You have not because you ask not.

Enjoy the Day

2008-07-04T08:18:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th to all of you! We plan on having a nice relaxing day at the beach. Simone would perfer to ride Melinda the horse all day. Our neighbor Cynthia is such a s nice girl. She loves taking the kids for rides. Yesterday she brought her lamb over his name his Lucky. Carter actually named the lamb. He gave him the name Lucky because he will be "lucky" until he goes to the fair in August. Then as we all know, he will be very unlucky.....poor lamb! They did have fun yesterday giving Lucky a bath. Carter came running into the house and into the bathroom...dashing out with a bottle of shampoo. Lucky was pretty clean when they were all done washing him up!!! It was quite a sight.

Words of wisdom from Mother Teresa

2008-07-02T07:22:00.000-07:00

Let Jesus use you without consulting you. We let Him take what He wants from us. So take whatever He gives and give whatever He takes with a big smile. Accept the gifts of God and be deeply grateful. If He has given you great wealth, make use of it, try to share it with others, with those who don't have anything. Always share with others because even with a little help you may save them from becoming distressed. And don't take more than you need, that's all. Just accept whatever comes.

There is a certain freedom in really trusting in God's providence. We try to live in the present and not to worry about tomorrow, although making plans is certainly part of being responsible. Where others would make plans for a year in advance, we would never consider doing something because it wasn't planned in advance, we would do it without another thought. Our approach would be to at least try- and so often it works out.

Do you know your Baptismal Date?

2008-06-27T06:36:00.004-07:00

Yesterday, June 26th 1966 was the day I was baptized. We have a tradition in our family of celebrating our baptism date. We pick out our favorite cake or special dessert. Each of the kids look forward to this day. They like to hear us retell the story of their baptism and of course eat their cake!

Most parent remember the dates of their children's baptism but do not know their own. I challenge you to find out what your date and where you were baptized. A few years ago, I contacted the church I was baptized in, and ordered several baptismal certificates.

I was baptized on June 26, 1966 (1 month old)
Place: St.John the Evangelist Church
Hudson, New Hampshire

Godparents: Dorothy Robinson (my grandmother, now in heaven)
Terry Robinson (my uncle)

Prayer Request

2008-06-24T17:22:00.001-07:00

I was watching this spiritual show last night about how much more powerful it is to write down your goals and dreams and prayers. It is more powerful than just thinking them. I am sure we have all heard this before and there is a lot of truth to it. What I thought was interesting, the author challenged us to write down all the things that only God can do. Make a list and all the items on your list would be things that only God can make happen. You wouldn't put loose weight on your list because you have a lot control over that. The author wrote 14 request on her list, in one year 13 of them God had granted.

I wrote 21 request to God on my list last night. It really challenges us to have complete faith that with God all things are possible. We need to expect God to do great things in our life! His dream for our life is so much bigger and better than we can even imagine.

I'll leave you with this thought to ponder:
The good God would not inspire unattainable desires.

Daddy's Girl

2008-06-22T15:08:00.000-07:00

Simone and I were cleaning out her closet and found this dress. She loved wearing the hat and thought she was "too cute". She couldn't wait for Daddy to see her and take her picture. She is defiantly a "Daddy's Girl"......

Happy Birthday Tatiana

2008-06-21T06:47:00.000-07:00

Happy 10th birthday Tatiana!

I can't believe that Tatiana is 10 years old. It has been 4 years since she has been adopted and she has grown so much. She truly is a very sweet girl with a big loving heart. We are very blessed to have a such a lovely Russian Princess for a daughter. We pray that God continues to pour out his blessing upon her.

Tatiana has decided that she wants to make her birthday cake today. So we are making a yummy lemon cake. Simone has already decided that she is going to blow out the candles. Tatiana is such a good sister to Simone. She is a great help and is very motherly. She wants to be a nurse or a teacher when she grows up. Whatever she chooses for a career, she will very hands on and caring. She likes to take care for people.

Happy Birthday Tatiana !!!

Jordan's Winning Photo

2008-06-15T10:07:00.000-07:00

This is Jordan's 1st Place Winning Photo. Click picture to view larger image

Last week of school

2008-06-10T17:36:00.000-07:00

I am on count down....only 3 more days left of school and the kids are out! I am so excited. I love summer and love having them all home. Jordan got out last week, he has been a big help to me this week. Auntie Marla sent the kids a gigantic water slide....they love it! Everyday after school they rush out to play on it. They will have a lot of fun using it all summer.

Simone got her hair cut into a cute bob. She thinks she is hot stuff. She wore her Disney princess dress today to pick Carter & Tatiana up from school. Of course everyone thinks she is adorable.

Jordan is writing a script for a movie he has created. He plans on selling it for over 600,000! He is also shooting another film from a script that his grandpa and uncle wrote. Jordan will be one of the best film makers that ever walked this earth. Say special prayers that all the right people come into his life at the right time. He is truly gifted and God has great plans for his future.

Melinda the Horse

2008-06-04T20:11:00.000-07:00

Our neighbor Cynthia, picks the kids up for a neighgorhood ride. They all love Melinda the horse!!! Simone asks for Melinda everyday. She loves riding on the horse. Cynthia is a very sweet girl. She also brings her lamb over to visit. Her lamb is getting ready to go the fair.

Our New Puppy

2008-05-26T13:07:00.000-07:00

Skippyjon Jones Chell

Meet the newest member of our family, Skippyjon Jones otherwise known as "Skippy". He arrived home on Friday. He is a Papillon, which are small, friendly, elegant toy dogs. They are gentle, alert and vivacious. They make great pets. They weigh anywhere from 7-10 pounds. The word "Papillon" means "butterfly" in French. They were given this name due to their beautiful butterfly ears. The Papillon is believed to be originally from France. It is one of the oldest breeds of dogs dating back nearly 700 years.

The kids just love Skippy. He is doing very well and only had to be taken out for a "potty break" once last night. He is doing all of his potty outside!!!! We are not given him a chance to make a mistake and are really working hard to take him outside and train him to only go potty outside. I know most of you are probably shocked that I have a puppy!!!! You are probably thinking that the kids instigated it.... nope...it was me. I felt really drawn to Skippy. Sometimes it is just that simple....you just know.

Happy Birthday Simone

2008-05-20T06:47:00.000-07:00

HAPPY 3rd BIRTHDAY

Simone is a big 3 year old girl today! She is very proud that it is her birthday. She got a cool purple bike with monkeys on it.

Simone is a true gem and love bug. We all just love her sooooo much. Her offical adoption day is Valentine's day 2006. She has been here just a little over 2 years....it feels like we have had her forever. We celebrate her birthday today but more than that, we celebrate the blessing that God has bestowed upon on family! We are so thankful for her.

Sayings of Mother Teresa

2008-05-18T18:53:00.000-07:00

We need to find God, and he cannot be found
in noise and restlessness. God is the friend of
silence. See how nature-trees, flowers, grass
- grows in silence; see the stars, the moon
and the sun, how they move in silence...
We need silence to be able to touch souls.

As I reflect on these wise words of Mother Teresa, it makes me realize how important my job as a mother is to teach this to my children. There are so many distractions and this crazy world.... most adults do not know the importance of spending time in silence and peacefulness.

If we do not teach our children the importance of inner peace....than who will? If we are so distracted how can we hear God? We will not know the mission He has for us........we will be pulled too easily to the demands of the world and not toward the Will of God. We have such a limited amount of time to teach our children to be happy and peaceful and know how to hear the voice of our Good and Gracious God .....

Jordan's Lastest Photo Project

2008-05-16T16:47:00.000-07:00

Chocolate Indulgence

Jordan was selected by his photo teacher to do a photo on gluttony for the school's next symposium. Only one student is selected to do this photo.... and yes it was Jordan! Carter is used as Jordan' s model quite frequently...they do argue most the time but seem to get the job done and pull it off! Carter doesn't like Jordan bossing him and telling him what to do! I told Jordan that Carter will probably be at the top of the list of high maintenance models!!!

Dima's Paperwork finally made it to the Ukraine

2008-05-15T09:33:00.000-07:00

Dima's paperwork arrived in the Ukraine last week. It needs to be be translated and then submitted to the SDA. Once the SDA receives the documents they will inform us of his exact date of registration. I am not sure how long it will be before we hear back....so keep praying.

Happy Mother's Day & Tatiana's Gotcha Day

2008-05-11T09:11:00.001-07:00

First picture of Tatiana -from agency 2004

THE MOST IMPORTANT ON EARTH

The most important person on earth is a mother. She cannot claim the honor of having built Notre Dame Cathedral. She need not. She has built something more magnificent than any cathedral- a dwelling for an immortal soul, the tiny perfection of her baby's body.
"The angels have not been blessed with such a grace. They cannot share in God's creative miracle to bring new saints to Heaven. Only a human mother can. Mothers are closer to God the Creator than any other creatures. God joins forces with mothers in performing this act of creation.....
What on God's good earth is more glorious than this: to be a mother?"

- Joseph Cardinal Mindszenty

Today marks 4 years that we have adopted Tatiana. How fitting that it falls on Mother's Day and my birthday. I am so blessed that God chose me to be her mother. Five years ago, I was shopping in Costco with Jordan & Carter and we saw a beautiful baby girl. We all admired the baby and went on with our shopping. After packing up our car with all our purchases, we started home and this flood of tears started running down my cheeks.....God spoke directly to my heart and said you are going to adopt a daughter. It was so such a strong and powerful feeling and I knew that I knew that this was God. When Edward came home from work, I told him the story and how the power of the Holy Spirit came over me.....without any hesitation, he said let's do it! That was on July 16th (my mother's birthday). We started the adoption process and we found Tatiana through an agency on Thanksgiving Day.....they said she was in Kazakhstan...where was that? I immediately got the map, learned that it used to be part of Russia but became its own country in 1991. So we were adopting a Russian princess! We had to travel twice, the first trip was 18 days and the second trip was 10 days. The entire process took exactly 10months from the day the God spoke to my heart. She was officially adopted on May 11th 2004....my birthday.

Jordan's Confirmation

2008-05-10T17:55:00.000-07:00

Today Jordan made his Confirmation and completed his 3rd sacrament in the Catholic Church. I guess his next sacrament will either me marriage or holy orders. In Jordan's case it will probably be marriage.
It was a beautiful Mass! The Bishop was great with the teenagers. My mom was Jordan's sponsor and so proud of her grandson. She was beaming and so happy to be by his side.
Grandpa took us all out to a big lunch to celebrate. We had some great desserts...I had a huge ice cream cookie that could feed at least 5 people, Auntie Melani had her favorite red velvet cupcake, Uncle John had a monster size mud pie, Carter had an enormous strawberry pie and Edward had a his favorite bread pudding.......they all were yummy and worth waiting for after the two hour Mass! Just kidding..... the Mass was really nice and could not have been more perfect.

Gotcha Day

2008-05-07T19:11:00.000-07:00

Tatiana's Gotcha Day is just around the corner. For those of you who do not know what "Gotcha Day" is, it is the day you officially sign all of the adoption paperwork and the child is now yours forever..... This is the day we "gottcha" or got you.... This is a great day of celebration. Tatiana's Gotcha Day happens to be on my birthday. Simone's is on Valentine's Day.

Some have asked me if celebrating this day makes the child feel different than your bio kids and maybe it makes them feel sad. First of all, they are different than our bio kids because we chose to adopt them into our family...how wonderful and special is that! The key word is "different" not all children come to us the same way. Why would we not want to celebrate this glorious day. Our girls will grow up and know their story....it isn't one "Big Talk" it is a continuing conversation through the years. Also, Tatiana was almost 6 years old when we adopted her, so she remembers us coming to the orphange and taking her home. Simone was only 10 months old...so she will not remember but we have already begun telling her story to her.....she loves hearing stories about herself!!!!

It will be 4 years on May 11th that Tataiana became our daughter. She has grown and changed so much in those 4 years. She is a beautiful girl with a very loving heart. She has accomplished so much in such a short time. She did not speak one word of English and is now at the top of her class! Most people are shocked when they realize she has only been here for 4 years. Actually most people think that Tatiana & Carter are twins. Children do tend to pick up the language pretty quick but she was faster than most. It is amazing to me how quickly she adjusted to our family. She will be 10 years old on June 21st. God gives us all different gifts and God has granted Tatiana with a kind heart, a spirit of giving, smart, and very beautiful. She will do great things in this world.

2008-05-01T20:23:00.000-07:00

Memories of Dima ---scroll all the way down to see more pictures

The kids love to talk about how cute Dima was and all the funny things he did when he was here and how sweet he was. I remember when he arrived at the Burbank Airport with the other 5 kids that were coming for hosting....it was a day that brought us all to tears. First of all, the kids arrive with just the clothes on their backs and nothing else! That right there is enough to make you bawl. They truly have nothing.....it is just heartbreaking. He was so scared and wasn't sure what was going on. We spoke as much as we could in Russian to let him know he was going to be OK. He just turned six...that is the youngest they can come for hosting. Looking back it is too much for a six year old. We just hugged him up and then Jordan scooped him in his arms and carried him to the car.

I think he knew he was going to be OK with us because he gave us a sweet smile. His smile is just adorable. However, the car ride home was interesting....He threw up and up and up....Once again Jordan in the back seat cleaned him up and kept rubbing his arm. Carter and Tatiana were reassuring him in Russian that it was going to be OK and we would be home soon. My kids were amazing.

When we finally got home, we cleaned him up and gave him a nice bubble bath and then got him in some cozy pj's. He was like an angel and we all knew he was a special gift that God had bestowed on our family. I still think if those 3 weeks are all we will ever get, then that was a special grace poured out that most people will never experience in a life time. How very thankful I am. Please pray that God watches over him and protects him from any harm in the orphanage.

2008-04-28T19:56:00.001-07:00

Please Pray for our niece Reese

Please pray for our one year old niece Reese. She suffers from high fevers and had a seizure yesterday. My brother-in-law & sister-in-law (Kalbert & Heather) had her rushed to the Emergency Room last night. It was a very long and scary night for them. Reese is doing OK today and they will keep a close eye on her. Please keep her in your prayers.

Life can take a turn when we least expect it and we are thrown off course. It breaks our hearts when children have to suffer....especially when it is our own sweet babies. I pray that God brings comfort to Kalbert & Heather and heals Reese from these fevers.

2008-04-25T17:22:00.000-07:00

Jordan wins 1st Place in Photo Contest!!!!

Way to go Jordan!!!! Jordan's winning photo was a black & white, of a homeless man reading the newspaper. We are so happy for him because he truly is a gifted artist. His next project at school is a portrait of his family. He is going to do our hands...not faces. We will see what creative energy flows from him on this project.

2008-04-23T19:08:00.000-07:00

Daily Reflection on Dima

Dima's paperwork is off to the the Ukraine. Once it arrives it will be hand delivered to the SDA (government office of adoptions). I am not sure how long it will take before we find out the exact date of when he was registered on their database. We will also find out if there are other issues that would not allow his adoption.

Isn't it interesting how we want everything on our own timing but God's plan is always the best plan. God's timing is rarely the same as ours. We are often in a hurry when God isn't. God is never in a hurry, but he is always on time! Isn't that so true....we just get so caught up into trying to figure everything out. I know things will work out with Dima exactly how God wants.

The kids pray for Dima and all the kids in the orphanages everyday. There are so many children with no family...no home....no love. This is the reality of their life...what can we do you ask? Some can donate time, some can donate money, some can adopt a child, some of you can be a support system to a family... but we ALL can PRAY. My two adoptive daughters would not be in our family, if we did not pray for God to use us however He wanted. When it is God's plan all the right doors open and life becomes as it supposed to .....simply beautiful.

2008-04-19T17:53:00.000-07:00

Jordan.......Future Film Maker

Well, today Jordan and I went to an open house at Brooks Institute... Film and Video Production School in Ventura. It was awesome. As most of you know, Jordan's passion is in the world of film. The school offers a summer workshop for high school students....it is for one week. The Ventura location of Brooks is just the Film and Video Production, the Photography School is in Santa Barbara. Jordan really liked the school and hopes to attend after high school.

Jordan's photography teacher at school has entered one of his photo's in a show. It is a picture of a homeless man reading the newspaper. Jordan is doing a portfolio on the homeless. It is a great picture! He will take Photo II next year and they get to go to San Francisco and a few other places. He has learned a lot from his photo teacher. I am so excited to see all that Jordan is becoming and will become. He is a GEM and just an incredible person. I thank God everyday that He picked me to be his mother!

2008-04-18T07:14:00.001-07:00

Update on Simone

Simone is the lovebug of our home. She is pampered and adored by all of us. She will be turning 3 on May 20th. She came home when she was 10 months old. She talks non-stop and reads every book she can find. I must say she is Daddy's Girl. She brings Edward stacks and i do mean stacks of books for him to read to her. He of course gets her all cozy on his lap and they begin their daily ritual of reading the stack. I have to laugh because by this time I am tired and my day is winding down.....and it so refreshing that she wants him to read and not me.

Oh, Simone wants to go the" Rosary School" becasue she can recite the rosary and loves church. I have been telling her that she is going to marry Jesus and become a nun. She says...Okay.. and the kids all laugh...they think I am joking. Simone is a GEM that God blessed us with. She is so full of life and love . We are all so in love with her.

2008-04-17T17:34:00.000-07:00

Dima..... the Journey of his Adoption

Many of you know about our precious angel from the Ukraine...Dima, we were blessed to host him on an adoption winter hosting program. It has now been over two years and he is still not home. The Ukraine is a very difficult country to adopt from and many families never complete their adoptions. We now are in the place were we have to begin all the paperwork all over again...yes the entire adoption. Why? Dima was never registered with the the Ukraine Government office that handles adoptions. Children must be registered for one year prior to be adopted outside of the country. Our adoption coordinator thought he was registered and we did not find this out until our paperwork arrived in their office. This of course was devastating but not the end of the world.... the world of adoption is full of many "glitches" as my friend Tina says. Now all of the paperwork is expired and must be redone...so we will just proceed forward and try and find his exact date of registry. However, we cannot proceed with the same adoption agency...not a good thing. So through the grace of God..... my dear friend Jill, found a coordinator in the Ukraine. This coordinator has been able to help families and bring their children home. So today is the beginning of starting the process over..... I think I can do adoption paperwork with my eyes closed.

This will be our 3rd adoption and 5th child. Edward and I know this is truly in the hands of God. Sometimes we ask God "What do you want from me . " I asked God this question and Dima came to us through a hosting program, that I fell upon by accident.......or so I thought. Sometimes God doesn't answer right away or it's not the answer we want. I believe that God will open every door and bring Dima home if it is His will. Maybe the timing was not right before or the bumps in the road were a test of our faith......or maybe it truly is not the will of God. I do not know this answer yet, so that is why we will proceed foward with a new coordinator, find out when Dima was registered and if there are any other issues that would prevent him from being adopted. I cannot express in words the blessing that all of our children our to us and the love they have for each other. Jordan and I were watching video's of Dima yesterday and I know that God sent us an angel for those 3weeks and we are all better people because of him. I will do all that I can do to bring him home...God is in charge and knows our hearts.