Yes, it must be the week before elections.
I have some advice for those running for office...your last minute barrage of television/radio/print advertisements are useless. If anything, I like you less BECAUSE of your constant whining, bullying and name calling.
Is it really necessary to run an ad during Blues Clues? Must I constantly get phone calls at home of recorded voices telling me about the urgent state of our county/state/country?
I have done my research, months and weeks ago.
I already know who I am voting for.
And you know who you are.
If you protect the life of the unborn, I support you.
If you work for peace but also the protection of our country and its borders, I support you.
If you look to advance science and support bills which will not kill an innocent human life, then I am on your side.
If, however, you use scare tactics to win an office I have already shut you out.
If you seek to demonize those who fight for our country or to glamorize terrorist propaganda then you will not have my vote.
If you seek to force your view of morality on me and threaten my expression of Faith I will kindly close the door on you.
If you use a woman’s “choice” as an excuse to kill the unborn then I am deaf to you.
May God Bless those who want to serve our country with integrity and respect for those in all life stages.
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Clean as a Whistle…
There is something very therapeutic about cleaning your kitchen floor.
No, I am not talking about damp mopping it or just wiping up a couple of spills. I am talking about an all out stripping and waxing of the kitchen floor.
I’m in the process of it right now. So far it has taken me an hour and a half to scrub and strip the floor. I am taking a short break before waxing begins.
I have been thinking about the last week and I realized that tonight was the first time I have actually had some quiet time to reflect on things. When did things get so complicated that I need to wash my floor in order to have a moment for self reflection?
So, what have I been thinking about?
Today is my sister’s birthday. She is thirty-something…
She is also a remarkable woman. She has four children and a husband and she seems to have “it” down pat, from soup to nuts. She is loving, giving, realistic, intelligent and very involved in her family’s life. Did I mention she is funny and pretty too?
When I was a child she used to meet me after my “Brownie” meetings, which met after school, so I didn’t have to take the big kid bus alone. We would pass by the “Snack Shack”, (a pickup truck with a little house on it selling all kinds of sugary goodness) and my sister would pull out a quarter and buy me a big sweetart! I used to lick that piece of candy as if I would never have another ever again. She protected me and listened to me. That was quite a challenge because I was a really annoying kiddo.
It has been the same ever since. My big sis still looks out for me. She tells me what I need to hear, not what I want to hear. She is a wonderful role model of motherhood and generosity of self to others. She volunteers and knows what is going on in her children’s life. She can speak about politics and faith with ease and can entertain 60 guests while making it look so easy.
So, it is my sister Jennifer whom I have been thinking about while I am scrubbing my floor. I am grateful for her and pray that God blesses her with continued happiness and health.
I am also grateful for my time of reflection tonight. Granted, I would much rather have a brand new floor that didn’t require so much darn work… But in the meantime thinking about my big sis has passed the time in a very pleasant way.
I am also grateful for one other thing…that I am not as old as she is…
No, I am not talking about damp mopping it or just wiping up a couple of spills. I am talking about an all out stripping and waxing of the kitchen floor.
I’m in the process of it right now. So far it has taken me an hour and a half to scrub and strip the floor. I am taking a short break before waxing begins.
I have been thinking about the last week and I realized that tonight was the first time I have actually had some quiet time to reflect on things. When did things get so complicated that I need to wash my floor in order to have a moment for self reflection?
So, what have I been thinking about?
Today is my sister’s birthday. She is thirty-something…
She is also a remarkable woman. She has four children and a husband and she seems to have “it” down pat, from soup to nuts. She is loving, giving, realistic, intelligent and very involved in her family’s life. Did I mention she is funny and pretty too?
When I was a child she used to meet me after my “Brownie” meetings, which met after school, so I didn’t have to take the big kid bus alone. We would pass by the “Snack Shack”, (a pickup truck with a little house on it selling all kinds of sugary goodness) and my sister would pull out a quarter and buy me a big sweetart! I used to lick that piece of candy as if I would never have another ever again. She protected me and listened to me. That was quite a challenge because I was a really annoying kiddo.
It has been the same ever since. My big sis still looks out for me. She tells me what I need to hear, not what I want to hear. She is a wonderful role model of motherhood and generosity of self to others. She volunteers and knows what is going on in her children’s life. She can speak about politics and faith with ease and can entertain 60 guests while making it look so easy.
So, it is my sister Jennifer whom I have been thinking about while I am scrubbing my floor. I am grateful for her and pray that God blesses her with continued happiness and health.
I am also grateful for my time of reflection tonight. Granted, I would much rather have a brand new floor that didn’t require so much darn work… But in the meantime thinking about my big sis has passed the time in a very pleasant way.
I am also grateful for one other thing…that I am not as old as she is…
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
First Day of Kindergarten...
We made it through the first day of Kindergarten!
Isabella walked to her bus stop, hand in hand with Daddy and Stephen. I, of course, lurked behind snapping photo after photo.
As she boarded her bus I could see that she found a seat and as the bus pulled away I saw her through the window smiling at me.
As the three of us walked home I felt no tears stream down my face. I thought I would be a wreck but I felt more contemplative than anything. This was HER big day. It wasn’t about me or how difficult it was to let her go to “big girl” school. I didn’t want to focus on my feelings today. Instead I came inside and played with Stephen and his trains. I thought about her while she was gone, and said a few prayers too. I hoped she was having fun.
After 2 ½ hours Marc and I waited in front of our house for that big yellow bus to come down the street. The only word that comes to mind when I saw it was elation. She was home, safe, and I couldn’t wait to hear about her day.
The bus driver smiled and a nice man from the school helped Isabella off the bus. She made sure she had her bag and that she held on to the railing on her way down. I was impressed that they had a “helper” on board to help these kiddos make there way on their first day.
Isabella was beaming! She learned three songs, played outside and made a card for her first day. She told us that when her teacher’s name was called she immediately got in line with the other children. She was so proud of herself. And I was so proud of her.
Marc and I were nervous about today, as any parent would be. We see her as one way when she is in our home. She is our first born and will always be my special little sweetheart. But she also needs to be introduced to the exciting aspects of our world, one of them being school.
I will never forget the look of joy when she came off the bus. I will never forget how I felt when I saw her come off the bus. It was precious and I will take it with me in my heart wherever I go. Thank you God.
Isabella walked to her bus stop, hand in hand with Daddy and Stephen. I, of course, lurked behind snapping photo after photo.
As she boarded her bus I could see that she found a seat and as the bus pulled away I saw her through the window smiling at me.
As the three of us walked home I felt no tears stream down my face. I thought I would be a wreck but I felt more contemplative than anything. This was HER big day. It wasn’t about me or how difficult it was to let her go to “big girl” school. I didn’t want to focus on my feelings today. Instead I came inside and played with Stephen and his trains. I thought about her while she was gone, and said a few prayers too. I hoped she was having fun.
After 2 ½ hours Marc and I waited in front of our house for that big yellow bus to come down the street. The only word that comes to mind when I saw it was elation. She was home, safe, and I couldn’t wait to hear about her day.
The bus driver smiled and a nice man from the school helped Isabella off the bus. She made sure she had her bag and that she held on to the railing on her way down. I was impressed that they had a “helper” on board to help these kiddos make there way on their first day.
Isabella was beaming! She learned three songs, played outside and made a card for her first day. She told us that when her teacher’s name was called she immediately got in line with the other children. She was so proud of herself. And I was so proud of her.
Marc and I were nervous about today, as any parent would be. We see her as one way when she is in our home. She is our first born and will always be my special little sweetheart. But she also needs to be introduced to the exciting aspects of our world, one of them being school.
I will never forget the look of joy when she came off the bus. I will never forget how I felt when I saw her come off the bus. It was precious and I will take it with me in my heart wherever I go. Thank you God.
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Milestones…
I swear, if I have to experience one more “childhood milestone” this week, I am going to have a nervous breakdown.
Isabella turned 5.
Isabella lost her first tooth.
Isabella rode a school bus for the first time today and had her orientation at school.
Stephen crawled out of his crib for the first time today (more like a thump than a crawl)
Stephen said his first sentence “I like that”
Isabella is going to Kindergarten on Wednesday.
No big deal, right? Okay, I am about one step from being a puddle on the ground. That’s right! If you look for me on Wednesday I will be in a corner crying.
Okay, so I exaggerate slightly but seriously, so many changes are happening right now. My little ones are growing up and it is so hard to realize that I am not always going to be the center of it! How pathetic do I sound?
My consolation is that when they are not with me I know God is watching over them and that their Guardian Angels are working overtime.
God has blessed Marc and me with two amazing children and up until now we have been the major part of their lives, especially with Isabella. But now that she is going to “big girl school” she will have teachers, bus drivers and many children to interact with on a daily basis. With Stephen, he is no longer “portable”. He goes where he wants WHEN he wants. His afternoon nap is now a fading memory.
I am grateful they are growing up because that is God’s plan for all children. We are to prepare them for the world and as much as we want to shelter them, they must experience the joys and sorrows of growing up whether we like it or not. We can pick them up and hug them after a fall from the crib. We can share in their excitement as they show us what the Tooth Fairy left them.
It is a roller coaster ride that I never understood until I became a parent.
I am so grateful…and so exhausted! :)
Isabella turned 5.
Isabella lost her first tooth.
Isabella rode a school bus for the first time today and had her orientation at school.
Stephen crawled out of his crib for the first time today (more like a thump than a crawl)
Stephen said his first sentence “I like that”
Isabella is going to Kindergarten on Wednesday.
No big deal, right? Okay, I am about one step from being a puddle on the ground. That’s right! If you look for me on Wednesday I will be in a corner crying.
Okay, so I exaggerate slightly but seriously, so many changes are happening right now. My little ones are growing up and it is so hard to realize that I am not always going to be the center of it! How pathetic do I sound?
My consolation is that when they are not with me I know God is watching over them and that their Guardian Angels are working overtime.
God has blessed Marc and me with two amazing children and up until now we have been the major part of their lives, especially with Isabella. But now that she is going to “big girl school” she will have teachers, bus drivers and many children to interact with on a daily basis. With Stephen, he is no longer “portable”. He goes where he wants WHEN he wants. His afternoon nap is now a fading memory.
I am grateful they are growing up because that is God’s plan for all children. We are to prepare them for the world and as much as we want to shelter them, they must experience the joys and sorrows of growing up whether we like it or not. We can pick them up and hug them after a fall from the crib. We can share in their excitement as they show us what the Tooth Fairy left them.
It is a roller coaster ride that I never understood until I became a parent.
I am so grateful…and so exhausted! :)
Monday, August 28, 2006
Half a decade...
Happy Birthday Isabella!
It seems like just yesterday that my water broke and Marc was rushing home to take me to the hospital.
Almost 24 hours, 3 epidurals and surgery prep later I heard a throaty cry. It was the most beautiful sound in the world. Isabella was born: 8 pounds 2 ounces, 21 inches long.
What a blessing she has been. She has brought us so much joy. She has taught us love, understanding, patience and the value of life. She came into our life and brought so much meaning.
All the “tough” times have been outweighed by exciting milestones: First teeth, first steps, potty training, first day of preschool, giggles and many, many “I love yous”.
God works in mysterious ways. At one time Marc and I wondered if we would be good parents. We prayed for her while she was in my womb and it is us who have been blessed. God has created a little girl with so much joy, and endless energy, and an innocent outlook on life with so much wonder.
So here we are, 5 years later and it fills me with gratitude and a sense of melancholy. She is growing up. She will enter Kindergarten this year and has two loose teeth!
She is the embodiment of Faith. Children are hopeful and loving and eager to learn. Although it is hard to watch your children grow up, I am thankful for every moment with her.
So today our family is celebrating Isabella’s birth, and all the blessings in our life which have come from that wonderful day!
It seems like just yesterday that my water broke and Marc was rushing home to take me to the hospital.
Almost 24 hours, 3 epidurals and surgery prep later I heard a throaty cry. It was the most beautiful sound in the world. Isabella was born: 8 pounds 2 ounces, 21 inches long.
What a blessing she has been. She has brought us so much joy. She has taught us love, understanding, patience and the value of life. She came into our life and brought so much meaning.
All the “tough” times have been outweighed by exciting milestones: First teeth, first steps, potty training, first day of preschool, giggles and many, many “I love yous”.
God works in mysterious ways. At one time Marc and I wondered if we would be good parents. We prayed for her while she was in my womb and it is us who have been blessed. God has created a little girl with so much joy, and endless energy, and an innocent outlook on life with so much wonder.
So here we are, 5 years later and it fills me with gratitude and a sense of melancholy. She is growing up. She will enter Kindergarten this year and has two loose teeth!
She is the embodiment of Faith. Children are hopeful and loving and eager to learn. Although it is hard to watch your children grow up, I am thankful for every moment with her.
So today our family is celebrating Isabella’s birth, and all the blessings in our life which have come from that wonderful day!
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Out of This World...
Black and white...I am covered in paint.
No, I am not painting my walls.
No, I am not painting my house or the shutters.
I am not even finger-painting with the kids.
I am building a rocket ship.
Isabella's fifth birthday is next week.
Did she choose a Princess Party? Nope. (Much to my pleasure, as I am sick of the Disney Princesses.)
She didn't want Disney, Curious George or any other character themed party.
Isabella wanted a Planet party. No, not a Space party. A PLANET party.
So, for the last 3 weeks I have been searching for all things planets:
Glow in the dark solar systems, check.
Planet pencils, check.
Pin the planet to the solar system game (my own idea), check.
Cut outs of plants for the walls, for decorations, check.
Even though I have searched and searched for all things "Planet" I have made an executive decision to branch out and include other aspects of our vast universe. Rocket ships, three legged alien races and a big moon cake are a few things I have come up with.
Seeing as though I don't have enough to do, I decided to make a rocket ship. That’s right, a huge cardboard craft that the kids can play inside and get their pictures taken in. I thought it would be easy as pie.
Have you tried to build one?
The reason I am writing this in my blog is that I realized, while painting, that I get just as excited about birthdays as my daughter does. I get to go all out for her special day. After all, you only turn five once. As much as I complain about all there is to do, it is important to me to do these special things for my children.
So, next Wednesday I will have 10 guests over to celebrate the birth of my little girl. My little five year old who will be entering Kindergarten next month. It will be fun and exhausting and incredibly loud!
I wouldn't miss one moment of it. Not for all the stars in the sky!
No, I am not painting my walls.
No, I am not painting my house or the shutters.
I am not even finger-painting with the kids.
I am building a rocket ship.
Isabella's fifth birthday is next week.
Did she choose a Princess Party? Nope. (Much to my pleasure, as I am sick of the Disney Princesses.)
She didn't want Disney, Curious George or any other character themed party.
Isabella wanted a Planet party. No, not a Space party. A PLANET party.
So, for the last 3 weeks I have been searching for all things planets:
Glow in the dark solar systems, check.
Planet pencils, check.
Pin the planet to the solar system game (my own idea), check.
Cut outs of plants for the walls, for decorations, check.
Even though I have searched and searched for all things "Planet" I have made an executive decision to branch out and include other aspects of our vast universe. Rocket ships, three legged alien races and a big moon cake are a few things I have come up with.
Seeing as though I don't have enough to do, I decided to make a rocket ship. That’s right, a huge cardboard craft that the kids can play inside and get their pictures taken in. I thought it would be easy as pie.
Have you tried to build one?
The reason I am writing this in my blog is that I realized, while painting, that I get just as excited about birthdays as my daughter does. I get to go all out for her special day. After all, you only turn five once. As much as I complain about all there is to do, it is important to me to do these special things for my children.
So, next Wednesday I will have 10 guests over to celebrate the birth of my little girl. My little five year old who will be entering Kindergarten next month. It will be fun and exhausting and incredibly loud!
I wouldn't miss one moment of it. Not for all the stars in the sky!
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
A Few Bad Apples...
I am ticked off. No seriously, I am.
My children have pretty bad colds. The usual hacking coughs, runny noses and congestion are to be found in the kiddos along with trails of used tissues.
I popped into a drugstore near me and while there I picked up some Infant Cold and Cough drops. You can imagine my surprise when I was asked for my Drivers License, date of birth and my signature at the checkout. What?! As the line grew behind me I became flustered and very annoyed.
As it turns out our government passed the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act of 2005. (Well, yippee skippy for me.) According to this law any person purchasing any product containing ANY amount of Pseudoephedrine must present identification, address, signature along with the product sold and the amount of this drug in the product.
Are you kidding me?
Apparently, because some junkies like to use and sell methamphetamine, I am made to go through an interrogation in order to buy medicine for my family.
The use of “Meth” is disgusting and I don’t disagree that drug abuse is a serious problem in this country and a financial drain to our society. It tears apart families and friends. As a former drug abuse counselor I understand it and I pity those who suffer from addiction. Addiction is a personal demon that we all struggle with at some point.
However, government regulation of Infant cold drops is not the answer.
If a drug dealer/maker wants to make “Meth” he will find a way. I liken it to gun control. You can create all the laws you want about restricting the purchasing guns, but if a bad guy wants one bad enough (and has enough money) he will get one. It is the law abiding citizen who suffers in the end; filling out endless paperwork and jumping through bureaucratic hoops to register to carry a gun (which of course is a Constitutional right).
I bet the legislators who passed this Act are very proud of themselves. They have one more piece of legislation to put on their website under “accomplishments”.
I can see the fall election campaigns in my head now.
Mr. Joe Legislate the Americans to death is standing there proudly in front of an American flag saying…
“I’m running for Congress. In the last year I was part of a bipartisan effort to limit the amount of Pseudoephedrine in an effort to combat methamphetamine abuse…blah blah blah”
What he should say is:
“I’m running for Congress and my goal is to regulate Americans until they fall to their knees begging for mercy. God help that mother who is trying to buy medicine for her child. And, the man who wants to buy those super size French fries, forget it. Just wait for the Fast Food tax of 2007.
Where will this end? What happened to personal responsibility and common sense?
All I wanted to do was buy Infant Cold Drops. What I came home with was the medicine and an enormous grudge.
My children have pretty bad colds. The usual hacking coughs, runny noses and congestion are to be found in the kiddos along with trails of used tissues.
I popped into a drugstore near me and while there I picked up some Infant Cold and Cough drops. You can imagine my surprise when I was asked for my Drivers License, date of birth and my signature at the checkout. What?! As the line grew behind me I became flustered and very annoyed.
As it turns out our government passed the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act of 2005. (Well, yippee skippy for me.) According to this law any person purchasing any product containing ANY amount of Pseudoephedrine must present identification, address, signature along with the product sold and the amount of this drug in the product.
Are you kidding me?
Apparently, because some junkies like to use and sell methamphetamine, I am made to go through an interrogation in order to buy medicine for my family.
The use of “Meth” is disgusting and I don’t disagree that drug abuse is a serious problem in this country and a financial drain to our society. It tears apart families and friends. As a former drug abuse counselor I understand it and I pity those who suffer from addiction. Addiction is a personal demon that we all struggle with at some point.
However, government regulation of Infant cold drops is not the answer.
If a drug dealer/maker wants to make “Meth” he will find a way. I liken it to gun control. You can create all the laws you want about restricting the purchasing guns, but if a bad guy wants one bad enough (and has enough money) he will get one. It is the law abiding citizen who suffers in the end; filling out endless paperwork and jumping through bureaucratic hoops to register to carry a gun (which of course is a Constitutional right).
I bet the legislators who passed this Act are very proud of themselves. They have one more piece of legislation to put on their website under “accomplishments”.
I can see the fall election campaigns in my head now.
Mr. Joe Legislate the Americans to death is standing there proudly in front of an American flag saying…
“I’m running for Congress. In the last year I was part of a bipartisan effort to limit the amount of Pseudoephedrine in an effort to combat methamphetamine abuse…blah blah blah”
What he should say is:
“I’m running for Congress and my goal is to regulate Americans until they fall to their knees begging for mercy. God help that mother who is trying to buy medicine for her child. And, the man who wants to buy those super size French fries, forget it. Just wait for the Fast Food tax of 2007.
Where will this end? What happened to personal responsibility and common sense?
All I wanted to do was buy Infant Cold Drops. What I came home with was the medicine and an enormous grudge.
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
Open Letter to Vogue...
Jamie Pallott
Vogue Magazine
4 Times Square
NY, NY 10036
I am writing regarding your July 2006 article entitled “Our Bodies Herself: the Abortion Battle’s Fearless Warrior”. As a feminist I am all for honoring women who make a difference in our society. I am, however, disappointed with the intellectual dishonesty in this article.
If it was an honest article then Cecile Richards may have discussed the risks of abortion. She may have mentioned that the controversial issue of abortion is not viewed by all as a religious one. For many of us it is about protecting women, born and unborn.
What exactly is she a warrior for?
The physical dangers to women, as a result of abortion, include: uterine perforations, cervical damage, infection (including pelvic inflammatory disease), excessive bleeding, endotoxic shock, fever, hemorrhaging, possible future miscarriage, infertility, ectopic pregnancy and labor complications (a women who has an abortion is 3 times more likely to have complications) and sadly even death.
The mental dangers to women who procure an abortion include: depression, increase in abuse of drugs and alcohol, post traumatic stress disorder (often called Post Abortion Syndrome), feelings of guilt, relationship difficulties and suicidal attempts or successful suiciding. Studies have showed that a woman who has had an abortion is 6 times more likely to consider or attempt suicide.
If Vogue would really like to challenge itself, it may consider interviewing women who are actually willing to talk about their abortion experiences. Women deserve to know all the facts about this issue and your article did not tell the whole story.
I consider myself a warrior in the abortion battle too. I will fight to inform women of the dangers of abortion. I will peacefully battle to ensure that every life is protected, born or unborn.
Vogue Magazine
4 Times Square
NY, NY 10036
I am writing regarding your July 2006 article entitled “Our Bodies Herself: the Abortion Battle’s Fearless Warrior”. As a feminist I am all for honoring women who make a difference in our society. I am, however, disappointed with the intellectual dishonesty in this article.
If it was an honest article then Cecile Richards may have discussed the risks of abortion. She may have mentioned that the controversial issue of abortion is not viewed by all as a religious one. For many of us it is about protecting women, born and unborn.
What exactly is she a warrior for?
The physical dangers to women, as a result of abortion, include: uterine perforations, cervical damage, infection (including pelvic inflammatory disease), excessive bleeding, endotoxic shock, fever, hemorrhaging, possible future miscarriage, infertility, ectopic pregnancy and labor complications (a women who has an abortion is 3 times more likely to have complications) and sadly even death.
The mental dangers to women who procure an abortion include: depression, increase in abuse of drugs and alcohol, post traumatic stress disorder (often called Post Abortion Syndrome), feelings of guilt, relationship difficulties and suicidal attempts or successful suiciding. Studies have showed that a woman who has had an abortion is 6 times more likely to consider or attempt suicide.
If Vogue would really like to challenge itself, it may consider interviewing women who are actually willing to talk about their abortion experiences. Women deserve to know all the facts about this issue and your article did not tell the whole story.
I consider myself a warrior in the abortion battle too. I will fight to inform women of the dangers of abortion. I will peacefully battle to ensure that every life is protected, born or unborn.
Monday, July 31, 2006
My Friend is Having a Baby!
I don’t think there is anything as exciting as having someone you love tell you they are going to have their first baby. (Of course, if they tell you it is their second, third, fourth, etc., it is also great news!)
Tonight, one of my best friends told me she is pregnant and I couldn’t be happier for her and her husband. As she told me her eyes sparkled and she glowed. She expressed her excitement and nervousness. Tales of her early food cravings and aversions took up most of our conversation. She ordered a large ice cream at the restaurant (Banana ice cream with peanut butter cups) and then ordered a pint of the same to take home with her. It made me so happy to watch her providing so much calcium for her little baby, only 8 weeks along.
I have never seen her so happy, well, maybe on her wedding day. I couldn't stop thinking about what an amazing mother she will make. Her patience and love will go far while taking care of her newborn. Her joy and silliness will bring laughter in the home as new parents play with a new baby. It is obvious that the love her and her husband share will provide a secure and happy home.
Too often we celebrate things which can be bought: A home, car, a vacation… While some things are wonderful and many times earned, it can not compare to the moment that you find out you are expecting a baby.
I ask you to pray for my friend and her hubby as they extend their family to include a child. Nothing can compare with the joy of a new life!
Tonight, one of my best friends told me she is pregnant and I couldn’t be happier for her and her husband. As she told me her eyes sparkled and she glowed. She expressed her excitement and nervousness. Tales of her early food cravings and aversions took up most of our conversation. She ordered a large ice cream at the restaurant (Banana ice cream with peanut butter cups) and then ordered a pint of the same to take home with her. It made me so happy to watch her providing so much calcium for her little baby, only 8 weeks along.
I have never seen her so happy, well, maybe on her wedding day. I couldn't stop thinking about what an amazing mother she will make. Her patience and love will go far while taking care of her newborn. Her joy and silliness will bring laughter in the home as new parents play with a new baby. It is obvious that the love her and her husband share will provide a secure and happy home.
Too often we celebrate things which can be bought: A home, car, a vacation… While some things are wonderful and many times earned, it can not compare to the moment that you find out you are expecting a baby.
I ask you to pray for my friend and her hubby as they extend their family to include a child. Nothing can compare with the joy of a new life!
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Getting Ready for College...
I am young enough to remember my college days like it was yesterday but old enough to see many mistakes I made along the way.
Here are the Top Ten Mistakes (in my opinion) you can make as you begin your journey at college:
10. Don’t expect your professors to constantly remind you of your due dates. It is your job now, not theirs.
9. Eat healthy! While eating on campus it can be a struggle to find healthy fare but you must try! Bad eating habits are set in stone during college. There is no one to make sure you are getting a balanced dinner. Trust me; the woman who would eat a box of Twinkies in a day, nothing good comes from it.
8. Never wait to the day before class to buy your books and supplies. If you go early enough you can buy used books and save a TON of money.
7. Don’t neglect your family and friends back home. In the first month or two you may miss them but as time goes by and you are busy with your schedule you may forget to “drop a line” to those close to you. While e-mails are fine you will discover that sending a letter will make someone’s day!
6. “Oh, I’ve got time…” The art of procrastination is perfected in college. What would you rather do, go out with friends or work on that paper that is due in two weeks? Duh! I learned that if you write down long term due dates as “due” one week before they actually need to be handed in, you will never have to ask for an extension from a professor.
5. Just say no to credit cards! What college kid has a bunch of money? Not many that I knew. It is tempting to use plastic to pick up that blouse for a party or to charge things to decorate your room. But a bad credit card history will follow you for years. Someone once told me to place my credit card in a Ziploc bag and put it in a plastic tumbler filled with water. Then put it in the freezer until frozen solid. Next time you think you “need” that item, wait until it defrosts and reexamine if you really “need” it after all. Think ahead, leave the plastic at home.
4. Professors deserve respect! I knew students who talked to professors like they were beneath them. Can you imagine? These professional have studied for years and don’t need to waste time with a nasty little twit before/after/during class. If you give respect, you will get respect. Look the professor in the eye. Come to class on time. If you have an appointment let him or her know ahead of time that you will need to excuse yourself. Turn off the cell phone. Etc. Etc. Etc.
3. Ask for help. Once you miss a couple of classes, or if you are struggling with the material, you can get behind in your class work. If you need help then by all means ask for it. There are learning centers, tutors and professors who want you to do well. They aren’t there to watch you fail.
2. Student loans: Don’t take out more than you need. It is tempting to take out extra money for living expenses when you are applying for student loans. It is true that knowing that you have some spending money will ease your mind for a short time. However, you will find that this is a huge mistake. Paying between 8-10% on a $30,000 will have you paying for years to come.
1. Look outside the classroom. Your classes are where you will learn what is needed to get your degree. It is excellent to have this knowledge but don’t be too narrow-minded. The years you are in college will provide an education beyond the classroom. This includes interpersonal skills with other professionals, money management, volunteer opportunities, political involvement and interning in your field. The opportunities are limitless.
So there it is -- my two cents. Welcome to the real world. It is a nice place to visit but an even nicer place to live.
Here are the Top Ten Mistakes (in my opinion) you can make as you begin your journey at college:
10. Don’t expect your professors to constantly remind you of your due dates. It is your job now, not theirs.
9. Eat healthy! While eating on campus it can be a struggle to find healthy fare but you must try! Bad eating habits are set in stone during college. There is no one to make sure you are getting a balanced dinner. Trust me; the woman who would eat a box of Twinkies in a day, nothing good comes from it.
8. Never wait to the day before class to buy your books and supplies. If you go early enough you can buy used books and save a TON of money.
7. Don’t neglect your family and friends back home. In the first month or two you may miss them but as time goes by and you are busy with your schedule you may forget to “drop a line” to those close to you. While e-mails are fine you will discover that sending a letter will make someone’s day!
6. “Oh, I’ve got time…” The art of procrastination is perfected in college. What would you rather do, go out with friends or work on that paper that is due in two weeks? Duh! I learned that if you write down long term due dates as “due” one week before they actually need to be handed in, you will never have to ask for an extension from a professor.
5. Just say no to credit cards! What college kid has a bunch of money? Not many that I knew. It is tempting to use plastic to pick up that blouse for a party or to charge things to decorate your room. But a bad credit card history will follow you for years. Someone once told me to place my credit card in a Ziploc bag and put it in a plastic tumbler filled with water. Then put it in the freezer until frozen solid. Next time you think you “need” that item, wait until it defrosts and reexamine if you really “need” it after all. Think ahead, leave the plastic at home.
4. Professors deserve respect! I knew students who talked to professors like they were beneath them. Can you imagine? These professional have studied for years and don’t need to waste time with a nasty little twit before/after/during class. If you give respect, you will get respect. Look the professor in the eye. Come to class on time. If you have an appointment let him or her know ahead of time that you will need to excuse yourself. Turn off the cell phone. Etc. Etc. Etc.
3. Ask for help. Once you miss a couple of classes, or if you are struggling with the material, you can get behind in your class work. If you need help then by all means ask for it. There are learning centers, tutors and professors who want you to do well. They aren’t there to watch you fail.
2. Student loans: Don’t take out more than you need. It is tempting to take out extra money for living expenses when you are applying for student loans. It is true that knowing that you have some spending money will ease your mind for a short time. However, you will find that this is a huge mistake. Paying between 8-10% on a $30,000 will have you paying for years to come.
1. Look outside the classroom. Your classes are where you will learn what is needed to get your degree. It is excellent to have this knowledge but don’t be too narrow-minded. The years you are in college will provide an education beyond the classroom. This includes interpersonal skills with other professionals, money management, volunteer opportunities, political involvement and interning in your field. The opportunities are limitless.
So there it is -- my two cents. Welcome to the real world. It is a nice place to visit but an even nicer place to live.
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
The President Did A Good Thing Today...
Finally, some strong words against embryonic stem cell research!
“These boys and girls are not spare parts. (Applause.) They remind us of what is lost when embryos are destroyed in the name of research. They remind us that we all begin our lives as a small collection of cells. And they remind us that in our zeal for new treatments and cures, America must never abandon our fundamental morals.”
“If this bill would have become law, American taxpayers would, for the first time in our history, be compelled to fund the deliberate destruction of human embryos. And I'm not going to allow it. (Applause.)
I made it clear to the Congress that I will not allow our nation to cross this moral line. I felt like crossing this line would be a mistake, and once crossed, we would find it almost impossible to turn back. Crossing the line would needlessly encourage a conflict between science and ethics that can only do damage to both, and to our nation as a whole. If we're to find the right ways to advance ethical medical research, we must also be willing, when necessary, to reject the wrong ways. So today, I'm keeping the promise I made to the American people by returning this bill to Congress with my veto.”’ (President George Bush, July 19, 2006)
The truth of the matter is that, as someone who has Rheumatoid Arthritis, I could potentially benefit from this immoral type of stem cell research. But do I want to see helpless babies killed for my cure? Heck no!
It is time for the American people to stand up and recognize that throwing money at ESCR (embryonic stem cell research) is not the answer! There are so many advances in adult stem cell research and umbilical cord stem cell research.
The pro-choice followers love it because once again it keeps us from looking at an unborn baby as just that. The scientists look at it as a cash cow to fund their research projects in the hope of being the first to have a positive outcome. In the end it devalues an embryo (baby) to a mass of cells which can be pulled apart for a “cure” in the name of science.
Who will stand up for the unborn children? President Bush did today. We, as tax-payers, and as compassionate and moral individuals must not rest until babies are safe from harm in their mother’s womb.
Monday, July 17, 2006
Have kids, will travel…
I have been neglecting my blogging. Actually, I didn’t think anyone read it until Marc and I took the kiddos to visit some dear friends. It was then that I was gently scolded (though not so subtlety) that I have not posted in months.
The past is the past so instead of trying to catch up on everything that has happened, I will start fresh…tomorrow.
Our four day family vacation to Youngstown, Ohio and Pittsburgh, PA was so much fun but completely exhausting. Luckily for us, Isabella kept the “Are we there yets” to a minimum and Stephen slept enough for us to have some quiet in the car.
We went to the Zoo and Aquarium, went swimming at the hotels everyday, ate out daily (which we aren’t going to do for months!) and visited with our dear friends and family whom we have missed so dearly.
When we got back to the house it was 87 degrees inside and the air conditioning isn’t making a dent in our humid abode. I feel like we are in some kind of tropical rainforest, minus the cool monkeys and colorful birds.
So tomorrow I will write more about our adventures but first we need to recover from our road trip!
The past is the past so instead of trying to catch up on everything that has happened, I will start fresh…tomorrow.
Our four day family vacation to Youngstown, Ohio and Pittsburgh, PA was so much fun but completely exhausting. Luckily for us, Isabella kept the “Are we there yets” to a minimum and Stephen slept enough for us to have some quiet in the car.
We went to the Zoo and Aquarium, went swimming at the hotels everyday, ate out daily (which we aren’t going to do for months!) and visited with our dear friends and family whom we have missed so dearly.
When we got back to the house it was 87 degrees inside and the air conditioning isn’t making a dent in our humid abode. I feel like we are in some kind of tropical rainforest, minus the cool monkeys and colorful birds.
So tomorrow I will write more about our adventures but first we need to recover from our road trip!
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Lock down...
Every day I "imprison" my son behind the bars of his crib.
It was never quite so bad but that was before we took away his bottle. I was dead set against this wicked decision, but my husband stood firm. “He is old enough to be off the bottle”. I, however, was not done with the bottle.
Well, it is a good thing Mr. Lewandowski does not have to be home when the little guy naps because I practically have to bring out the tear gas to get him to bed. Actually, he just brings out the tears and the wailing and gnashing of teeth.
I hand him his cup of milk, let him fill his little belly and lovingly put him in his crib with a big stuffed monkey to hug. I gently stroke his hair and shut off the light. Each time I do this I get my hopes up that this time will be easy. It has actually happened a couple of times, though rarely.
After about 10 minutes of screaming my patience is nonexistent and I feel like I am a cruel enforcer of naptime. I know he is tired. I know I am tired. I know his sister is tired. Why does he fight it?
So, alone I sit in my office working wondering how long it will take for the little boy to fall asleep. Oh the guilt. It is almost too much to handle.
Wait until he is my age. He will jump at any opportunity to take a “Nanny-noo” (nap). I know I would.
It was never quite so bad but that was before we took away his bottle. I was dead set against this wicked decision, but my husband stood firm. “He is old enough to be off the bottle”. I, however, was not done with the bottle.
Well, it is a good thing Mr. Lewandowski does not have to be home when the little guy naps because I practically have to bring out the tear gas to get him to bed. Actually, he just brings out the tears and the wailing and gnashing of teeth.
I hand him his cup of milk, let him fill his little belly and lovingly put him in his crib with a big stuffed monkey to hug. I gently stroke his hair and shut off the light. Each time I do this I get my hopes up that this time will be easy. It has actually happened a couple of times, though rarely.
After about 10 minutes of screaming my patience is nonexistent and I feel like I am a cruel enforcer of naptime. I know he is tired. I know I am tired. I know his sister is tired. Why does he fight it?
So, alone I sit in my office working wondering how long it will take for the little boy to fall asleep. Oh the guilt. It is almost too much to handle.
Wait until he is my age. He will jump at any opportunity to take a “Nanny-noo” (nap). I know I would.
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Mary Dwelley - Rest in Peace
It is really difficult when someone you know dies.
It could be a family member, a friend or an acquaintance but it doesn’t matter how you know them, it is that they have made an impact on your life.
Mary Dwelley was the President of Feminists for Life of New York. That is how I knew her. She was also extremely active at her parish of St. Bridget’s and a tireless advocate for peace and justice causes. I knew her as the woman who wouldn’t quit when it came to saving the lives of unborn babies. She was amazing.
The first time I met Mary was when I was looking to make pro-life contacts in Upstate New York, as I had recently moved here with my husband and didn’t have the opportunity to meet many in the pro-life network. Mary came to my house and we talked over dessert and coffee and I remember her being so pleasant and giving me so much information.
Later on I started working with Mary with Feminists for Life. She was always helpful and pleasant and never wavered in her passion for the unborn. She was very blunt when it came to correcting me when I made mistakes. That kind of honesty is always hard to hear at first but a person can’t help but be grateful for the opportunity for growth. You knew that when dealing with Mary that she was a defender of life and skilled in the ability to make her point known, using emotion and reason.
I just talked to Mary a couple of days ago. She had a busy week preparing for Holy Week and was “up to my eyeballs…and still trying to do my taxes!” It is hard to believe she is gone.
Mary was killed in a car crash yesterday. She was only 57, much too young to leave us.
A truck crossed the center line and hit Mary's car when she died instantly.
The news showed a picture of the back of her car. The bumper sticker read:
Peace begins in the womb.
That was Mary, protecting the unborn, even until the end.
The blow to this community is overwhelming. There are so many who knew Mary on a personal level who must be devastated. Her family, no doubt, must be beside themselves with grief.
She was a faithful Catholic, a friend to Feminists, an ally to the unborn. How fitting it is that she is meeting God during Holy Week.
Please pray for her friends and family during this difficult time.
Please pray for Mary Dwelley, that her soul rests in peace.
It could be a family member, a friend or an acquaintance but it doesn’t matter how you know them, it is that they have made an impact on your life.
Mary Dwelley was the President of Feminists for Life of New York. That is how I knew her. She was also extremely active at her parish of St. Bridget’s and a tireless advocate for peace and justice causes. I knew her as the woman who wouldn’t quit when it came to saving the lives of unborn babies. She was amazing.
The first time I met Mary was when I was looking to make pro-life contacts in Upstate New York, as I had recently moved here with my husband and didn’t have the opportunity to meet many in the pro-life network. Mary came to my house and we talked over dessert and coffee and I remember her being so pleasant and giving me so much information.
Later on I started working with Mary with Feminists for Life. She was always helpful and pleasant and never wavered in her passion for the unborn. She was very blunt when it came to correcting me when I made mistakes. That kind of honesty is always hard to hear at first but a person can’t help but be grateful for the opportunity for growth. You knew that when dealing with Mary that she was a defender of life and skilled in the ability to make her point known, using emotion and reason.
I just talked to Mary a couple of days ago. She had a busy week preparing for Holy Week and was “up to my eyeballs…and still trying to do my taxes!” It is hard to believe she is gone.
Mary was killed in a car crash yesterday. She was only 57, much too young to leave us.
A truck crossed the center line and hit Mary's car when she died instantly.
The news showed a picture of the back of her car. The bumper sticker read:
Peace begins in the womb.
That was Mary, protecting the unborn, even until the end.
The blow to this community is overwhelming. There are so many who knew Mary on a personal level who must be devastated. Her family, no doubt, must be beside themselves with grief.
She was a faithful Catholic, a friend to Feminists, an ally to the unborn. How fitting it is that she is meeting God during Holy Week.
Please pray for her friends and family during this difficult time.
Please pray for Mary Dwelley, that her soul rests in peace.
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
Maestro please...
When I was a child I wanted to play the violin or the cello. I REALLY wanted to play but due to various circumstances I was unable to do so.
I liked my Grandma’s reasoning the best. “You don’t want to play the cello, it is not ladylike. They have to have the thing between their knees, it isn’t right.” I love my Grandma so!
My second favorite was the public school I went to. After “testing” my musical aptitude it was determined I was tone deaf. Thanks for having a little faith folks.
Cut to the present.
My daughter loves music. She is now 4 and catches on pretty well to tunes and has a good memory. Last summer we bought her a guitar for her 4th birthday.
Well, that was in August and since then we have heard several times that she really wanted was a violin. Of course, that was music to my ears, as I had always had an interest.
So about 4 weeks ago we signed her up for a 10 week introduction to the “Suzuki method” class and she loves it. I mean she really LOVES it.
Oh wait….that’s me who really loves it. She likes it whole bunches. But me? I really love it. Do you see where I am going with this?
This class requires a parent to rent an adult size violin to learn on and then trade it in after 4-5 classes for a child’s size. They say that if the parent learns then they can better help the child learn. Well, that was just a mistake. You will have to pry that violin out of my hands.
I am 31 years old and when my hubby and the kiddos were out of the house I stood in front of a large mirror and played my heart out. I could hear the crowd cheering! People were throwing roses onstage. Children were begging for my autograph.
It was the most moving performance of “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” you had EVER heard.
It brings me great joy to play. No matter how poorly I play I know I have been practicing and for once I am not watching a musician, I am the participant.
No, I am not a stage mom. My little girl loves to practice and it is great quality time that we get to spend with each other. If she decides someday she doesn’t like it then we will cross that bridge when we come to it.
For the time being I will relish each moment that I pull out that bow and shiny violin from the velvet lined case. It is like a treasure chest for me filled with excitement and the unknown.
My oldest sister calls it “a dying cat”, I call it music.
I liked my Grandma’s reasoning the best. “You don’t want to play the cello, it is not ladylike. They have to have the thing between their knees, it isn’t right.” I love my Grandma so!
My second favorite was the public school I went to. After “testing” my musical aptitude it was determined I was tone deaf. Thanks for having a little faith folks.
Cut to the present.
My daughter loves music. She is now 4 and catches on pretty well to tunes and has a good memory. Last summer we bought her a guitar for her 4th birthday.
Well, that was in August and since then we have heard several times that she really wanted was a violin. Of course, that was music to my ears, as I had always had an interest.
So about 4 weeks ago we signed her up for a 10 week introduction to the “Suzuki method” class and she loves it. I mean she really LOVES it.
Oh wait….that’s me who really loves it. She likes it whole bunches. But me? I really love it. Do you see where I am going with this?
This class requires a parent to rent an adult size violin to learn on and then trade it in after 4-5 classes for a child’s size. They say that if the parent learns then they can better help the child learn. Well, that was just a mistake. You will have to pry that violin out of my hands.
I am 31 years old and when my hubby and the kiddos were out of the house I stood in front of a large mirror and played my heart out. I could hear the crowd cheering! People were throwing roses onstage. Children were begging for my autograph.
It was the most moving performance of “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” you had EVER heard.
It brings me great joy to play. No matter how poorly I play I know I have been practicing and for once I am not watching a musician, I am the participant.
No, I am not a stage mom. My little girl loves to practice and it is great quality time that we get to spend with each other. If she decides someday she doesn’t like it then we will cross that bridge when we come to it.
For the time being I will relish each moment that I pull out that bow and shiny violin from the velvet lined case. It is like a treasure chest for me filled with excitement and the unknown.
My oldest sister calls it “a dying cat”, I call it music.
Thursday, February 02, 2006
Zzzzzzzzzzzzz…and now a word from our sponsor
My husband and I suffer each morning.
It is terrible.
It is horrible.
I can barely write the words to describe it, but here I go.
Each morning we actually have to leave our bed. There, I said it.
Maybe it is a deadly sin I am participating in: Sloth.
It is a daily struggle because we invested in a Select Comfort bed last year. I say invested because comfort apparently has a price but when you consider health problems it is wise to invest in quality.
It all started with those crazy commercials about “sleep numbers” and “adjustable settings”. I disregarded them as a fad until my own doctor recommended that I seriously consider this purchase due to my arthritis. My hubby and I did our research: the cost, the statistics of pain relief, could it hold up to children jumping on it and the fact that our old mattress was 10 years old.
They offered us a 30 day trial with free delivery and set up. It was too good to pass up so one fine day our bed was delivered.
We spent a week playing around with our “numbers”.
Pssssst….huuummmmmmmmm….pssst…..huuummmmm
Pssssst….huuummmmmmmmm….pssst…..huuummmmm
That was the sound of the inflation and deflation of our new “toy”.
Within two weeks I was sleeping through the night and waking up with less discomfort.
They really should put a warning on the bed:
It is terrible.
It is horrible.
I can barely write the words to describe it, but here I go.
Each morning we actually have to leave our bed. There, I said it.
Maybe it is a deadly sin I am participating in: Sloth.
It is a daily struggle because we invested in a Select Comfort bed last year. I say invested because comfort apparently has a price but when you consider health problems it is wise to invest in quality.
It all started with those crazy commercials about “sleep numbers” and “adjustable settings”. I disregarded them as a fad until my own doctor recommended that I seriously consider this purchase due to my arthritis. My hubby and I did our research: the cost, the statistics of pain relief, could it hold up to children jumping on it and the fact that our old mattress was 10 years old.
They offered us a 30 day trial with free delivery and set up. It was too good to pass up so one fine day our bed was delivered.
We spent a week playing around with our “numbers”.
Pssssst….huuummmmmmmmm….pssst…..huuummmmm
Pssssst….huuummmmmmmmm….pssst…..huuummmmm
That was the sound of the inflation and deflation of our new “toy”.
Within two weeks I was sleeping through the night and waking up with less discomfort.
They really should put a warning on the bed:
“Warning, this bed results in side effects of: comfort, fluffiness and generalI usually don’t promote items on my blog but when something is good, I like to share it with the world.
happiness. Use of this product during the day can result in decreased
productivity”
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