A Thankful Woman's Book of Blessings

So much to thankful for in life! The more gratitude we have in our attitude, the more JOY we have in our hearts!

Share your blessings with us and give thanks to God for them!

Link us to your post with Mr. Linky, below. Share the image above and offer your readers a link back here.

Then, just list five things you're thankful for this week. That's it! Easy and fun!


I'm thanking God for the memes I participate in, as well as host, each week. Each one is unique and adds a little special something to my blogging week. Mostly, they all help me to be more appreciative of the simple pleasures and blessings in life; and draw me nearer to the Lord in my vocation and my friendships.

THANK YOU, LORD!

I'm thanking God for the wonderful experience I had doing a half hour show on Relevant Radio this past weekend. My sweet dd, Laura, 16, went with me "for support" and we had SUCH fun meeting everyone and getting a close-up look at how LIVE RADIO works! Such fun and SO educational!

THANK YOU, LORD!

I'm thanking God for my daughter-in-law. She stays home with her two babies each day and takes such joy in caring for them and their sweet little home. She praises and thanks my son for his hard work and she loves when we pop over for play time during the week. She smiles and laughs so easily...and doesn't mind when all of her little brothers and sisters-in-law talk to her a mile a minute!

THANK YOU, LORD!

I'm thanking God for an answer to prayer that He recently blessed me with. This is something I've been praying for for SUCH a long time...something so needed...and important...I'm sorry to be cryptic, but it is personal involving someone dear to me, so I'm not at liberty to say more...except that you should NEVER lose hope when it seems all hope is lost...because our God is an AWESOME God and He can do ALL THINGS!

THANK YOU, LORD!


I'm thanking God for the box of tea that a friend gave to me when she visited a couple weeks ago. It has some flavors that were new to me (like Spearmint, Lemon Lift, and Jasmine Green) and I have REALLY enjoyed them, late at night, while my family is asleep and I am working on the computer.

THANK YOU, LORD!


Praise Him, from Whom all blessings flow!

What gifts has He showered upon YOU this week?

Lovin' My Husband

Link with us, below, and tell us all the awesome stuff that you love about your hubby!
Add the image above, and send your readers back here with a link.

MARRIAGE IS A BLESSING! LET'S CELEBRATE OUR HUSBANDS!


I am LOVIN' my husband because he stayed home with the kiddos and tuned in while I had my big "15 minutes of fame" on a local radio program this past weekend! I took my daughter, Laura, 16, with me and we had a blast learning how radio works and meeting a really cool "radio guy" who had served in our military for 22 years...had a pony tail...was a singer/songwriter/musician and a Catechist! How cool. BUT...I never would have had the experience without the support and encouragement from my hubs!


I am LOVIN' my husband because he gave the 'go ahead" to pay enrollment and get the books for Laura's senior year. We usually don't do that until MUCH later in Spring and Summer...but she finished her Junior Year early and really wanted to keep going. I know it was a financial CRUNCH.
What a nice Dad.


I am LOVIN' my husband because he started the coffee pot the other day when he was still home and I got up for the day:) That was SOOOO nice.

The Simple Woman's Daybook

Joining Peggy and her friends as we pause to ponder the simple things in life.
Visit her blog or add your own entry via the link in my sidebar:


FOR TODAY:

Outside my window...very, very, VERY cold. BRIGHT and beautiful! But...C-O-L-D!

I am thinking...about next year's school plans. Something about this time of year always makes me want to do that.

I am thankful...for the delicious, hot, steamy, aromatic cup of coffee I am enjoying.

From the learning rooms...Doing much better with our new Algebra program. WE WILL SURVIVE!

In the kitchen... Chop Suey...my mother's recipe...she uses a tomato-based sauce rather than brown...yum, yum, YUM...one of my favorite childhood dishes...LOVE serving it to my own family!

I am wearing...Ummmm....::clears throat::...actually, one of my Littles was sleeping in my bed when I woke up. So, I didn't want to wake her...Thus, I am still dressed in attire that suggests "sleep" rather than "Ok, kids, let's get to school!"

I am going...nowhere, because my hubby thinks something is wrong with the steering in my van and so has "grounded" us until he gets it checked out. LOVE that man that takes such good care of me!

I am wondering...how my daughter-in-law is feeling today. She's been a bit under the weather.
(Where on earth did we get that saying, anyway?)

I am reading..."The Defender"; a pro-life publication that was offered to me yesterday. Very good.

I am hoping...that all goes well for our dear friends, who have just received word that their adoption has been approved! They have 10 kiddos (1 deceased) and the youngest sweet darling has Downs Syndrome (my godson!) They are adopting a sweet 3 week old baby boy, who also has Downs! Can't WAIT to meet him! They will be taking the whole family to go and bring their new baby brother home!

I am looking forward to...The Stations of the Cross, this Friday (and all Fridays in Lent). This is one of my favorite devotions; although I rarely make it through without crying.

I am hearing...my dogs, drinking (slurrrrrrrrrrrrping) their morning water, before heading out to the fields.

Around the house...All that's left to do in the basement now is a bit more painting and decorating! We went from having nothing but exposed insulation and some cinder blocks, to having a beautiful classroom, family room, toy/rec room, an office, and a closet! YAY for hubby and son, who have worked SO hard all year!

I am pondering...the current escalation of anti-Christian behaviors/attitudes in America.

I am praying for...for my children and grand-children.

One of my favorite things...reading books aloud with my family!

A few plans for the rest of the week: Recording two seminars for Ultimate Homeschool Expo Online this week: "Tending to the Hearts of Our Children" and "Creative Ideas for Inexpensive/Free Gifts and Entertainment for Families". Spring cleaning...you know...the down and dirty, really get the grime out kind.
Seeking times of silence to rest in the Lord during Lent. A few crafts and everyday school lessons.


A photo thought to share:

Big Sisters Are Great for Napping On

Sabbath Moments

1) Prayed the rosary with a beautiful group of women and girls w/ our pastor atop a mountain, today!

2) Saw some AWESOME large birds of prey soaring through the wild blue yonder while we were up there!

3) Father played some lovely meditation music as background while we ate our lunch at the parish hall after our hike. It was SO relaxing and wonderful. Like having lunch in heaven!

These are the wonderful Sabbath Moments I shared with God today. My dear friend, Colleen Spiro, hosts this meme each week and invites YOU to share the times you find yourself enjoying the presence of God in your life. You'll want to check out Colleen's blog, via the link in my sidebar. And, while you are there, make sure you click the links to her website, book, and NEW e-book (which is PERFECT for Lent...How do I know? I'm reading it, myself!)

7 Quick Takes Friday

Hmmmm...not sure who is hosting today; Jennifer Fulwiler, or her trusted co-hostess, Hallie Lord; both of whom are awesome, witty, beautiful, and wonderful...so...just click the link in my sidebar; stop in to Jen's...see if she's there, and if not, head to Hallie's...there will be a link, if needed.


My Quick Takes:

1) Had some really fun visits with several families of friends, this week. I was really proud of the kids; for they kept up on their school work in the early mornings and evenings...since the multiple visits is an unusual thing for us during school days. (We typically keep those for Fridays or weekends.) We shared in some Lenten Crafts, enjoyed simple fare for food (It's Lent, and all)...and talked about how quickly our children are growing up.


2) Upon our return from one of those visits, my hubster had dinner all ready and waiting for us; table set, and all! That was SO sweet.

3) I love the devotion of Stations of the Cross. It's difficult for me to make it through without crying, though. Unfortunately, our outdoor Stations took a lot of damage in last summer's tornado...and we've yet to repair them all...so this Lenten Season, we are "journeying" all around the house; indoors! We've the images of the Stations on walls in each room...and Jacob still leads us with the large wooden cross that we use to process in our woods...it's a little cramped in the hallways and around doorways and corners...but, it works.


4) We are REALLY missing Downton Abbey already...can't believe we have to wait until next year! Re-runs will have to suffice until then. My mother has a friend, an elderly lady that lives alone...who had herself a "DA" weekend! She made snacks, stayed in pj's and enjoyed the entire season 1 on dvd's. Sounds like my kind of weekend.

5) Spring cleaning goes so nicely with Lent...purging, pruning, simplifying and all of that. I'm feeling a big urge to get to work on things like kitchen cabinets, drawers, windows, blinds, curtains, etc...Hmmmm....now, to figure out how to turn that into some sort of co-op or elective course for the kiddos. Think, think, think, think...

Tea Talk

It's still fairly early here, in the woods of Pennsylvania, and I am enjoying this little visit with dear Ruth, our kind hostess, and all of the Tea Talk Ladies:) Would like a cup of something nice? Care to relax and share a few moments of respite? Use my sidebar link and go to Ruth's blog...she has a place all ready for you!


I am having my first cup of hot coffee this morning. It makes me think of my sweet daughter, Laura, 16, who also loves coffee; but has given up drinking it for the 40 Days of Lent:) Wow. Here's a pic of Laura...this was taken when she was on an outing to the mall with her BFF's. See? Even "big girls" like to play dress-up! They had such fun going into the gown shop and trying things on!



My cup is this one: 

I am feeling...happy that our friends are coming for a visit, later today. Sarah's godmother is such a creative and avid "crafter". She's bringing all sorts of goodies for us to make some special things for the Lenten Season. One of them is called a "Jesus Tree" and is similar to a "Jesse Tree". I've not seen one before, so I am looking forward to making it with the children. It will take us on a symbolic journey of Our Lord's Passion, Death, and Resurrection.


On my mind...is one of my closest friends who is in the midst of a terrible family crisis. I had been praying for her a while back and might have mentioned something here....but the situation has taken a real turn for the worse. I know that if you lift her up in prayer today, she will be blessed. (Thank you.)

"Jesus, I am here. Love me."
~ Frequently repeated prayer of Blessed Teresa of Calcutta~

Small Successes

Sometimes it's good to pause, survey your situation, and celebrate the POSITIVE side of life!
Sherry agrees. That's why she hosts this meme each week so that we can share our Small Successes!
Visit her via the link in my sidebar and join the fun:)


WOOT!

We made it through the day without ANY napkins, paper towels, or tissues! How we came to a point where we were OUT of all of those things at the same time; I'm still trying to figure out...but hey...no matter....we did it!


WOOT!

Still managed to get our school work done in an enjoyable manner, even though this has been one of those weeks where we seem to be OUT of the house more than IN it. Why, we even stayed on-task with Jake's Algebra lessons! That said, this SS might actually deserve a DOUBLE woot!


WOOT!

Have successfully gathered our family a little earlier each evening BEFORE we pray our family rosary, so that we can use our "Bringing Lent Home With Mother Teresa" booklet for the 40 Days of Lent. We are doing each day the night before that actual day so that my husband can be among us as we read and pray and discuss the "focus" for the next day. Sure, there have only been 2 days, so far...but hey...I'll take my "successes" where I can get them!

A Thankful Woman's Book of Blessings

Welcome! So sorry for missing yesterday's "Lovin' My Husband" meme...I forgot to pre-schedule a post and I had an online speaking engagement so never checked in to my blogs...see you next Tuesday for that one!



Today, we join our thankful hearts in praising God for His many blessings in our daily lives!
Simply add the image above and list of 5 things you're thankful for this week to a post and then link us there with the handy little Mr. Linky gadget, below. Offer your readers a link back here so that they can enjoy more entries:)

1) I am so very thankful for the time I spent ministering to the ladies at the kickoff of the Ultimate Homeschool Expo 2012 online yesterday. I am always amazed at the wonderful fellowship, encouragement, and support that the audience in the chat room offers to one another at these seminars. Truly, God has allowed us to use technology to nurture souls! THANK YOU, LORD!

2) I'm thankful for ASH WEDNESDAY today. A day of prayer and fasting for us...and one that gently leads us ahead...into the "desert", if you will so that the Lord can "prune" us and "prepare" us for the coming celebration of Eastertide! THANK YOU, LORD!

3) I'm thankful for the wonderful visit we had at my daughter's house the other day. Are there any happier words on earth than a sweet grand-daughter saying, "Hey Gram...want to lay on my bed under blankets and watch Thomas the Tank Engine *wiff* me?" THANK YOU, LORD!

4) I'm thankful for the time I shared with my husband and teens last evening. We sat in the quiet of our living room, after the other kids went to bed...under our blankets, with our feet up...and just chatted and laughed and reminisced and enjoyed one another's company. THANK YOU, LORD!

5) I'm thankful for hot drinks on cold days. THANK YOU, LORD!

Please, do tell us about the wonderful gifts the Lord has showered upon YOU this week!

Sabbath Moments

1) I have been having WONDERFUL Sabbath Moments reading our hostess, Colleen Spiro's new e-book:
First Things First! It's a journal of her own spiritual retreat and it has been PERFECT for me to read as I prepare to enter the Lenten Season! (Thanks, Colleen! KEEP WRITING!)

2) Listening to my Littles pray the rosary. Their tiny voices, full of love, and spoken with such sincerity...fills my own heart to overflowing with JOY...oh, how I pray that they will ALWAYS want to connect with God in prayer during their lives.

3) Listening to Father Rocky on Relevant Radio. If you've never done so...look him up online...he is one OUTSTANDING speaker...and, truth-be-told...I just love to hear his voice...like myself, he was born in raised in Pittsburgh, PA, and there's nothing like the sound of the good ol' PGH accent to make me smile:)
The most recent talk I listened to...was about him learning to accept the fact the GOD FINDS HIM LOVEABLE....and also....that he had never told his own father "I love you" until he was on his deathbed.
It was a VERY moving testimony. If you can find it...you should listen.


SABBATH MOMENTS is graciously offered to you each week by Colleen Spiro. Visit her via my sidebar link. Her blog, website, book, and e-books are ALL VERY MUCH worth your time! Colleen is a great blessing in my life and I'm so thankful that God has allowed me to know her through our online writing/blogging.

SPECIAL MEME

My dear friend, Colleen Spiro tagged me to participate in this special-feature meme; started by Karinann; another good blogging friend of mine:)



The idea is to share 3 religious books that you enjoy and then tag 3 others to do the same.


As Colleen mentioned on her post (which you can read at Thoughts on Grace), it's tough to choose ONLY 3 when it comes to favorite religious reading.

Since the Holy Bible is the living Word of God; I don't count it as a "mere" religious book...it is above and beyond.

So...my 3 choices are:

Introduction to the Devout Life, by: Saint Francis DeSales

He is My Heaven, The Life of Blessed Elizabeth of the Trinity

and

Domestic Church, Room by Room by: Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle

And now, I have 4-5 other titles swimming around my mind that I'd love to share...but the rules call for only 3...so they'll have to wait for another time:)

I am tagging the following people to share their 3 favorites:


Maria from Four Blessings Academy

Mary from The Beautiful Gate

Barb from Suffering With Joy

Tea Talk

I am having some delicious, wonderful, steaming, hot Spearmint Tea; given to me by a new friend when she visited, recently.

My cup is one of my slender ones with a country motif...a rooster, on it.

I am feeling thankful to be coming to the weekend...I'm looking forward to relaxing with my family:)

On my mind is a dear, dear friend who is having some serious family crises. Oh, how I understand that ache in a mother's heart and OH, how I pray for Our Lord to comfort her.

"Before there were television and video games, kids used to play outdoors, entertain themselves and work around the house in the afternoons. Kids don't choose television over people. They choose television because of lack of people interaction." - Brook Noel

I'm grateful to our charming hostess, Ruth, who invites us in to tea each Thursday. She keeps an open place for anyone wishing to join...so why not stop by and say hello? You can reach her via my sidebar link.

Small Successes

High-fives all around! We are here to celebrate "getting it right" with you, today!
Sherry is the hostess and you can join the fun over at her place via my sidebar link.
It's time to look on the positive-side of life and rejoice in the Small Successes of our days!


Small Success #1: Got all of our school work done by today so that we can enjoy a play-date with our dear friends, tomorrow! WOOT!

Small Success #2: Sent in my handout, my bio, my links, and my slides ON TIME for my upcoming talk at the Ultimate Homeschool Expo 2012 Kickoff online, coming up Tuesday, the 21st, at 1 pm EST. Hope you'll join us! It's free...it's awesome, and the fellowship is wonderful! My topic is: "Surrendering all to the Lord in your daily family life journey". WOOT!

Small Success #3: Made the "master list" of the 45 library books we checked out yesterday. The only way we can keep track when we get books from the library is by writing down each title/author BEFORE we let everyone take books off to their rooms to read. When the due date draws near, we go down our list and check off each book...making it easy to spot those that are "missing". WOOT!

A Thankful Woman's Book of Blessings

Sorry, I'm a tad bit late with our meme, today:)

Thank you for joining me in "counting our blessings" which our kind and generous God showers upon us each day! Send us to your post via Mr. Linky, below...share 5 things you are giving thanks for this week; and offer your readers a link back here:)

As for me, I am VERY THANKFUL for:


1) The Sacraments. Our little Mary Clare is now preparing for her First Holy Eucharist. SO special.

2) Our window of "love". 90 homemade Valentines that add cheer and JOY to my living room that I enjoy seeing each time I sit on the couch or drive down our driveway!

3) My eye-glasses. How difficult things would be for me without them.

4) My children. The more I go on in this beautiful journey of life, the more aware I am of what a true blessing and gift and privilege it is to be a mother...and not just a mother...but a mother to THESE children; that I have been given.

I thank my Father in heaven for His blessings.

Now, it's your turn to do the same!

Lovin' My Husband

How appropriate for this meme to fall on St. Valentine's Day!
A DAY OF LOVE!
Join me in "LOVIN'" our husbands by telling us 3 things you LOVE about yours!
Share a memory, a photo, the ways he blesses your life...
Lift him up, rejoice in marriage, and give praise to God for the man He chose for YOU!
Link us to your post with the linky tool under this one.
Add the image you see above to your post and give your readers a link back here.
That's it! It's easy! It's fun! And it helps us restore and celebrate the wonderful gift of MARRIAGE in our lives!


On this St. Valentine's Day:


1) I am LOVIN' my husband because he remembered it was St. Valentine's Day at 5 am when he woke up for work (a little late today...he usually gets up around 4:30) and the first thing he did was WISH ME A HAPPY DAY! XO

2) I am LOVIN' my husband because he always appreciates my cooking so much. I don't think I have ever served him a meal that he has not complimented and thanked me for :)

3) I am LOVIN' my husband because he always helps to give the Littles their baths so that I can have a little break.

I thank God for my wonderful husband!
Now, tell us about YOURS!

Sabbath Moments

1) Writing a birthday post for my son, Benjamin, who turned 5 today. I spent the morning thinking of him and what a blessing he is in my life. I felt SO close to God when I was giving birth to Ben...as though a veil of grace had enveloped me. It was the most beautiful birth of all of my children. I enjoyed thinking about that this morning...and writing a little love-letter to my beloved son.

2) Sat on the couch, under a blanket, and watched the snow, gently falling outside my window.

3) I didn't get to have our holy hour of Adoration at church this past Thursday because our parish is getting a new Sanctuary floor put in so we couldn't expose the Blessed Sacrament. OH! How I missed our morning hour with Jesus! Funny, it seems, that this would be a Sabbath Moment for me...but it truly was, for I spent the morning longing for Him and eager for things to return to normal so that we could go and spend our quiet time before His Sacred Presence again next week.

Colleen, Spiro, author of a brand new e-book, is the wonderful hostess of this meme. Join us by hopping over to her blog via my sidebar link. Look for the links to her books and e-books and website at the top of her blog page!

7 Quick Takes Friday

1) Had a great day with some new friends today! A lovely woman, who joined our "I Surrender" Book Club on FB and I realized that we live within 45 minutes of each other! So, today, she and her 5 ADORABLE children; all ages 9 and under, and her sister-in-law, who's visiting from CA, came over so that we could meet "in-person" and enjoy a play-date/luncheon together! We had such a wonderful time and I am so thankful to God for fellowship and friendship in Christ :)

2) Tomorrow's the BIG DAY. My baby. Turning 5. Where, oh where, has the time gone?

3) Realllllly have some questions burning about a few of the characters in Downton Abbey and waiting for this week's episode to (hopefully) solve the mysteries for me. Is Patrick Gordon the real Patrick Crowley? How did Mrs. Bates die? Will Matthew walk again? The suspense is killing me!

4) I'm loving not having a television set in the living room anymore. We don't have "tv", only movies...but we moved it all downstairs to the new family room. Now, the living room is a quiet respite (especially when everyone is downstairs watching movies!)...a place to relax and read a book, pray a rosary, or simply sit and enjoy the children playing on the floor nearby with blocks or horses or Lego sets...very, VERY nice.

5) Looking forward to participating in "Bringing Lent Home with Mother Teresa"...a booklet for families, by Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle...that includes spiritual reading, activities, prayers, etc...it's only $2.50 and you can pick it up at Ave Maria Press online. I like the idea of doing something "as a family" throughout the Lenten Season. I'm eager for it to arrive in the mail:)

6) I'll be speaking at the Ultimate Homeschool Expo 2012...LIVE...at 1 pm...on Tuesday, the 21st. Check out their Facebook page for a link if you're interested in joining us. I love speaking online and having the opportunity and privilege to connect with moms from all over the world as we share in this beautiful journey of motherhood, homeschooling, marriage, and Christian family life!

7) Had some Red Vine Licorice today. YUM. The BEST.

Hop over to Jennifer's blog via my sidebar link if you'd like to read more Quick Takes. She's busy writing a new book...so if she's not hosting today...there'll be another link for you to follow, there.

Tea Talk

Having coffee in my every-day mug...I know it's late in the afternoon...but we had a very "trying" Math class this morning that made me want to have another cup of coffee today!

My mug is...yep...the one I use almost every day; plain ivory color with a dark blue group of stripes around the rim...it's a nice, round mug so I can really wrap my hands around it and get a good bit of coffee into it.

I am feeling...hungry...and can hardly wait to serve dinner, Mary Helen and I made a huge pot of chili and I'm just waiting for the elbow macaroni noodles to finish boiling...we like to serve our chili over-top of those. Mmmm...

On my mind...the upcoming presidential election. God's will be done!

A quote to share:

"A 'No' uttered from the deepest conviction is better than a 'Yes' merely uttered to please, or worse, to avoid trouble."   ~ Mahatma Gandhi ~

Small Successes

::dances around the kitchen, lifting arms in a victory pump high in the air and singing::

"We did it! We did it! We really, really did it!"


Did what? You ask.

Did THIS:

1) Got through the whole week without falling behind on laundry! With 10 people still in this house, believe me...THAT is a feat, to be sure!


2) Mopped the floor when I REALLY didn't feel like it.


3) It took two phone calls and 2 hours of work and discussion and assistance, but we got the bottom of the 2 Algebra problems that were living up to their name: PROBLEMS.  Sheesh...to think that I have to teach this stuff 6 more times, yet...eeeeek!


Anyway, isn't all of this fantastic news? I'll bet you had some great Small Successes this week, too!
Tell us about them by linking up over at Sherry's place...you'll find the Small Successes link in my sidebar:)
Looking forward to sharing your JOY!

A Thankful Woman's Book of Blessings

Want to keep an attitude of gratitude with us?
It's easy! Just share five things you'd like to thank God for this week...and link us to your post using Mr. Linky, down below:) Add the image you see above and send your readers back here with a link...and that's it!
A THANKFUL HEART IS A JOYFUL HEART!

I have MUCH to be thankful for:

1) Our new family room...it's DONE! All those months and months of hard work on the part of my husband and sons...it is simple and cozy and comfy and wonderful! THANK YOU, LORD, for this wonderful room to gather in!

2) In our new family, I have a very VERY special piece of furniture...my Dad's entertainment center...passed down to me by my Mum when he died last summer. I don't know whether I want to laugh or cry each time I walk in the room and see it there...I can almost see him sitting in his chair...watching the Pittsburgh Penguins:)
THANK YOU, LORD, for a cherished gift!

3) A visit that hasn't actually happened yet...but will, this coming Friday. A lovely woman who joined my "I Surrender" Book Club/Discussion Page on Facebook happens to live just over the bridge from us in WV. She also happens to know my son and his family and attends the same church that they do...we discovered that we have several children of the same age and have been enjoying our online discussions so much that we have made plans for an in-person play-date this week and I am very excited! THANK YOU, LORD for NEW FRIENDS!

4) The little booklet called, "Bringing Lent Home with Mother Teresa", by Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle that I ordered today...it is meant for families to do together during Lent and I was hoping for JUST such a thing when I found out about this little gem. Can't wait until it arrives! THANK YOU, LORD for books/activities that nourish our souls!

5) The telephone. I was thinking today...that since my mother doesn't have a computer and it's difficult for her to write letters too often (severe arthritis) without the telephone, I would hardly get to have any correspondence/communication with her. I'm so grateful that I can pick up the phone and give her a ring just to say "I love you" and hear about all the happenings in her days. THANK YOU, LORD for this technology!

Thanks for sharing the blessings you've been given this week!

Lovin' My Husband

Come, join us in supporting marriage and telling us all the things you LOVE about your husband!
Share the image above in your post and link us there using the linky tool, down below.
Provide a link back here for your readers and share a list of 3 things you love about that hubby of yours...ways he blesses you....cherished memories you have...photos, etc...
Let's rejoice in the gift of marriage and share in one another's JOY!


Do you know what that sweet husband of mine did this week?


1) He brought home a bag of pretzels because he knows I love to snack on them!

2) He made a "big deal" out of our little family Super Bowl Party (even though he's not really interested) and got soda for the kids, little pizzas, and chips. He even let them eat in the new family room downstairs where we were watching the game online and he allowed them ALL (even Benj) to stay up for the whole game! Those kiddos had the time of their lives and my heart was bursting with love for this man who made the night so much fun for his children:)

3) He called me this morning..just to say "Hi" and "Have a great day"! XO It's SO nice to know that he thinks of me while he's on the road (His first meeting this morning was at the National Shrine, which is over 2 hours (and a half in heavy in traffic) from us!)

Feelin' LOVED and CARED FOR by my hubby!

Tell us all about that great guy YOU married!

The Simple Woman's Daybook

Joining Peggy and her friends as we pause to ponder the simple things in life.
Visit her blog or add your own entry via the link in my sidebar:


FOR TODAY:

Outside my window...One might never guess that it is February.

I am thinking...of my family; my husband, my children, my grand-children...our lives and our journey and our walk with the Lord.

I am thankful...for our new family room. Oh! How long and hard my husband and son have worked to build it and what a thrill it was to have our first "party" in it last night as we enjoyed the Super Bowl, together!

From the learning rooms...The "new" Algebra Curriculum has arrived! We will begin bright and early, tomorrow morning!

In the kitchen... left-over chicken drumsticks from yesterday's grilling; along with some hamburgers we grilled so that today's dinner would be quick -n- easy! Adding some left-over pasta and french fries, and we'll have ourselves a nice little smorgasbord!

I am wearing...jeans and a comfy, pull-over, gray, knit sweater. LOL Too funny...this is what I was wearing LAST Monday, too, apparently. Ha ha.

I am going...to the FAR Above Rubies Facebook Party tomorrow night. Lots of great prizes and fellowship with other Christian ladies! Hope to see you there!

I am wondering...if my children realize how much I LOVE being at home with them each day. I know sometimes things don't go so well...or I am ill-tempered or impatient...but I hope that they still know, despite the "bumps" in the road...that I would not give up my time at-home with them for all of the "tea in China" as they say!

I am reading... The Domestic Church/Room by Room, by Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle

I am hoping...to find part-time work that is suited/appropriate for my sweet daughter, Laura, 16; who is ready and willing to "get her feet wet" in the employment area, this Spring or Summer.

I am looking forward to...meeting a new friend and her sweet children in -person this week. One of the ladies who is in our "I Surrender" Book Club/Discussion Group on Facebook lives within an hour from me and is coming to have a play-date with us this week!

I am hearing...the sounds of my children running in and out of the house.

Around the house...getting used to our "new look" with our new living room furniture and our new family room (downstairs)...takes a bit of time to rearrange things and decorate...(I'm not a good decorator)...but, it is "coming together" nicely, I think...simple and comfy:)

I am pondering...the beautiful gift that Jesus has given us in the holy Eucharist.

I am praying for...those who are blind to the evils of abortion.

One of my favorite things...getting new lipstick. I don't buy cosmetics on a regular basis. It is only very occasionally that I will "treat myself" to something new...and I don't buy expensive make-up...just things I usually get the Family Dollar Store. But...even so...it's so much fun to choose a new shade (or an old favorite) and open the package to wear it for the first time! It feels so fresh and "lively"!

A few plans for the rest of the week: Preparing for my guest-spot on Relevant Radio, coming up on the 26th.
Attending a webinar on Lenten Thoughts of Mother Teresa...and also getting ready for my darling Benjamin's 5th birthday this coming weekend! MY BABY! Turning FIVE!



I simply LOVED this when I saw it and wanted to share it with YOU!

Sabbath Moments

Sharing another lovely Saturday with Colleen, our kind and gracious hostess. Her blogs and websites are full of good things for your spirit and she invites you each week, especially, to share the "God moments" of your week with others. Stop by and visit Colleen via my sidebar link. (She's got a new e-book coming out soon! I can't wait!)

My Sabbath Moments:


* Baby-sat my sweet grand-daughter today and got to hold her on my lap while we prayed our family rosary...she's only 2...but she was saying some of the words in the "Hail Mary" with us....OH! How my cup overflowethed with JOY.

* We had a beautiful snowfall this evening. It was dark outside but one of our outside spotlights was on, so when I looked out the window the whole back yard was a-light and the soft, white, flakes, were gently falling in silence. It was sooooooooo pretty. All of the branches of the trees were encased with snow. I kept thinking how awesome our Creator is.

* Sat for a few minutes, at night, just resting under my comfy, cozy, "Our Lady of Guadalupe" blanket that my daughter and son-in-law got me for Christmas. Our new couches have recliners built-in...and it was so wonderful to sit back, close my eyes, and rest.

7 Quick Takes Friday

1. Had lunch with my BFF's today and have a date with my hubby for a marriage group that is forming at our parish tonight! Woo hoo...waaaaaaaaay too much "indulgence" for ME all in one day...not used to that! LOL Such a blessing and delight:)

2) REALLY missing my Dad lately. I suppose that the "shock" has worn off a bit now and I am starting to "re-live" certain things that happened and images that are in my heart/mind of his last days, in Hospice. I know that it's all a natural part of the grieving process...but...it's really tough on some days.

3) Feeling a need to be a bit outspoken and assertive in defending the freedom of Catholics and the restoration of marriage (as GOD designed it) and family life in America, these days. Does anyone else feel a dark energy trying to surround us? It is making me want to "rise up, stand, and be counted" for CHRIST!

4) Tomorrow, the family room will be officially finished and our new furniture will be moved into our living room! Again, I want to go on-record as saying that I'm not so sure that purchasing new furniture with EIGHT kids still at home is a good idea...just sayin'...just in case.

5) I wish the weather would make up its mind.

6) I have been getting into a bad habit of snacking at night...so glad Lent is almost here...that will help me get back on track.

7) Big news: I'm writing another book! The Lord put the title on my heart while I was praying at Adoration and it has flown quite smoothly from there. Hope this one doesn't take 2 years! LOL

Want more Quick Takes? Visit Jennifer Fulwiler via my sidebar link:)

Tea Talk

Tonight, I'm having a little tea with honey...very cozy and comfy, after a long, busy day.

My cup is the one I love that my daughter Laura got me for my birthday last October...it has the Blessed Mother and Baby Jesus on it:)

I am feeling very ill-at-ease, as many of my fellow Americans (especially Catholics) are feeling this week due to the outrageous acts of our government which are stripping our rights and freedoms away.

On my mind...my dear Lord and Savior, JESUS...whom I KNOW has us all in the palm of His hand and has already WON the victory over these evils!

“Let’s honor the conscience of those who disagree with abortion, and draft a sensible conscience clause.”

President Barack Obama

* The above quote is something that the president said in May, of 2009, when he spoke at Notre Dame University. His recent actions have proven his above comments to be hypocritical and insincere. I am sorry to be posting in a "down-trodden" way during our Tea Talk today...but I am grateful that I can share my heart with you, my friends at Ruth's...even on the days when my heart is heavy...like today.*

Ruth is our gracious hostess. She is lovely and special. You can visit her by clicking the link in my sidebar. I'm sure she has a cup of tea waiting just for YOU!

Small Successes

1) Managed to still get school done with Daddy home, working on renovations. AND...no one asphyxiated from the white clouds of drywall dust!

2) Came up with a super-dee-duper YUMMY dinner when I only had some chicken and a little of this and that. It will now be one of our favorite meals! LOVE when that happens:)

3) Got supplies to make Valentines! Our family tradition is to make our own bags (Oh..wait...ok...got ALMOST all the supplies...forgot the brown bags...oops) and we make all of our own Valentines to tuck inside:) I just love seeing the kids cutting and crafting and coloring and thinking up their little sayings for their cards...even my hubby participates and makes his own!


Share more Small Successes over at Sherry's place. Her link is in my sidebar:)

A Thankful Woman's Book of Blessings

Thanks for joining us! God's blessings are abundant! We'd love to hear about yours!
Link us to your post using Mr. Linky, below. Offer your readers a link back here and add this above image to your post! In your post, share 5 things for which you've been thankful this week:) That's it! Fun! Easy! And, a great way to keep an "attitude of gratitude"!

As for me, I have SO MUCH to be thankful for:

1) My grand-babies, Haley, and Tommy. They are my son's children and their mother sent me the most darling photos of them last night. I wish I could show you but she doesn't allow their images to be posted on the internet. Trust me...they are CUTE! THANK GOD FOR MY GRAND-CHILDREN!

2) My other grand-babies,  Lori and Jozy...my daughter's children. Never have you met such a pair of giggling, dancing, funny-face-making, little sweetie pies. THEY are allowed to have their pictures on the web, so I will share some at the end of this post:) THANK GOD FOR LORELAI AND JOZY!

3) My "mission" is getting clearer to me. I am so grateful to the Lord for making His will known in my heart. THANK GOD FOR TRUSTING ME TO SERVE HIM!

4) Soup, coffee, hot chocolate, tea...and other tasty, steamy things. THANK GOD FOR COMFORTING DRINKS AND FOODS!

5) The Spring-like day we had yesterday which allowed the kids and I to go romping in the woods and play at the creek! THANK GOD FOR NATURE-SURPRISES!

Here's your linky:



And here are my darling grand-daughters:

Lori

Hmmm...don't seem to have a pic of her sister on this laptop. I'll have to get one from the other computer tomorrow and come back and edit:)