tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78686377622073290632024-02-19T14:48:21.047-06:007th Generation TexanRaising healthy children to live faithfully in today's world, and experience the future with grace, intelligence, and strength.Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.comBlogger109125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-88360995157141439402011-08-17T17:21:00.001-05:002011-08-17T17:23:28.031-05:00Summer is over - school has startedMy baby is all grown up. Our Princess started kindergarten today. I can’t believe how big she is. It was indeed harder for us to leave her than for her to go to school.
<br />
<br />Princess is enrolled in a lovely conservative Catholic school. We are so excited that she is in a truly Catholic academic environment that weaves Catholic beliefs throughout the curriculum and school day. We are thankful that God has led us to this school and that her Godfather has offered to pay tuition. I do not have to worry that her teacher will teach her something different than what we teach her at home. And it brings tears (of joy!) to my eyes that to Princess school means not only learning traditional academic and enrichment topics but also going to Mass, playing on a playground next to a statue of Mary, dressing up as a saint on All Saints Day, bringing baked goods on St. Lucy Day, and being able to pray whenever she wants. How great is that?
<br />Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-25157154228764307112011-07-19T10:52:00.001-05:002011-07-19T11:29:15.323-05:00Move beyond worryI admit it. I am a worrier. I like to analyze and plan, and I suppose worry grabs hold of me when I can't plan. And worry begets worry. Stress leads to worry which brings on more stress. I know all of this (because, after all I have done the analysis), but I sometimes feel powerless to stop it.<br /><br />In addition to continued parental illnesses and two rounds of antibiotics for strep with Princess (who seems prone to pneumonia - scary!), I developed my own health scares. You know, the kind that start out as minor, like a cold, and develop into "what if it's lung cancer?". Thankfully, the killer diseases were all in my mind, but still a significant cause of worry that spiraled out of control.<br /><br />Next came the very real death of the mother of one my oldest and dearest friends. Fortunately, I can work remotely and was able to be there for my friend as she faced her mother's death and funeral. Side note: if anyone ever thinks that there is even a remote chance of me dying, CALL A PRIEST!<br /><br />And let's not forget my dear husband's very real struggle with food and weight. I worry about him (somewhat justified since his brother had a heart attack at 39). (Bad) Food can be a tough addiction to fight. And I pray for his faith: may he grow stronger.<br /><br />I'm trying - really I am - to not worry and to deal with stress better. I need to trust in God and have faith that I am where I need to be. But my goodness it's hard sometimes! I need to remember: <br /><br /><blockquote>Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6–7)</blockquote><br />And seriously, April was the last time that I posted something? So sorry about that!Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-77640402593996478562011-04-08T17:05:00.004-05:002011-04-15T11:45:41.750-05:007 Quick Takes (vol 2)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjInDeu1YwiBTYcjHkT3tO8__m2MnjO1CABv4W7t2MbolCacDWErxIKcf785LODa0baqimurNbHkLSSNpB_1qne1zhMqpZCsbIwP8gMsHJJUo3JsHeN_A70sYgLrBAXY8UJxfoS0Z4bg656/s1600/7+Quick+Takes.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 290px; height: 195px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjInDeu1YwiBTYcjHkT3tO8__m2MnjO1CABv4W7t2MbolCacDWErxIKcf785LODa0baqimurNbHkLSSNpB_1qne1zhMqpZCsbIwP8gMsHJJUo3JsHeN_A70sYgLrBAXY8UJxfoS0Z4bg656/s320/7+Quick+Takes.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590651887383115042" /></a><br /><br />Happy Friday to all!<br /><br />1. Two Saturdays ago, Princess and I spent mommy and me time shopping for stickers <a href="http://catholicicing.blogspot.com/2011/03/religious-and-cheap-easter-basket.html">that Lacy found at Dollar Tree</a>. Granted, we had to go to three different Dollar Trees (Dallas, Plano, and Frisco) to find them. We got Stations of the Cross, Mysteries of the Rosary, crosses and crucifixes, names of God, and Christmas/Nativity. They also have Jesus and Mary stickers too, but we already had those. The sets come four sheets to a package. What a deal!<br /><br />2. We promptly added Mysteries of the Rosary stickers to Princess’ Rosary scrapbook, a rather long (months!) craft project to create something for her to look at while praying and learning the rosary. It’s turning into my craft project. Cute idea: take one 8x8 memory book that conveniently comes with 10 pages (20 sides), and create a scrapbook page for each mystery. I’ll probably add the prayers to the inside covers.<br /><br />3. During our trek across the DFW Metroplex, we also stopped into the new-ish Catholic bookstore in Plano: Two Hearts (I can’t find a link). It’s located relatively close to my office, except that I work mostly at home these days. Anyway, in the back of the store, they have a nativity set up including dress up clothing for the kids. I loved seeing Princess dressed up as Mary holding the baby Jesus doll.<br /><br />4. We’re in the process of hand painting eggs. I’ve gone through the tedious process of blowing out the eggs (two!), and Princess and I each painted one. We’ve tried and tried, but none of us can tell which side is the top or bottom! Must be the free range eggs I used.<br /><br />5. I have discovered that I can read Kindle books on my iPod. Yes, you have to turn a lot of “pages”, but it’s still cool. It’s a free app – first one that pops up in the Apps store if you search on “Kindle”. Not that I buy a lot of (or any) Kindle books from Amazon. However, I did discover that sometimes books come up priced at $0. That’s right: free! I keep an eye on <a href="http://ireaderreview.com/">Kindle Review </a>for free books.<br /><br />(Of course, I guess I can just sort on Kindle books by price (low) on Amazon...)<br /><br />6. Today is April 15 – tax day! However, due to some sort of D.C. holiday tomorrow, which has to be celebrated today (i.e. not on the weekend), we all get the option of waiting until Monday to turn in our taxes. This is good since I can’t get my accountant on the phone.<br /><br />7. Princess is excited to wear red to Mass this Sunday for Palm Sunday. Red is her favorite color!<br /><br />On that exciting note, have a great weekend!Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-28055353947643868692011-04-01T11:04:00.011-05:002011-04-15T14:43:32.405-05:007 Quick Takes (vol. 1)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjInDeu1YwiBTYcjHkT3tO8__m2MnjO1CABv4W7t2MbolCacDWErxIKcf785LODa0baqimurNbHkLSSNpB_1qne1zhMqpZCsbIwP8gMsHJJUo3JsHeN_A70sYgLrBAXY8UJxfoS0Z4bg656/s1600/7+Quick+Takes.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 290px; height: 195px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjInDeu1YwiBTYcjHkT3tO8__m2MnjO1CABv4W7t2MbolCacDWErxIKcf785LODa0baqimurNbHkLSSNpB_1qne1zhMqpZCsbIwP8gMsHJJUo3JsHeN_A70sYgLrBAXY8UJxfoS0Z4bg656/s320/7+Quick+Takes.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590651887383115042" /></a><br /><br />NOTE: if you found me via <a href="http://www.conversiondiary.com/">Jen's blog</a> on April 15, I linked to the wrong post! I should have linked to <a href="http://7thgenerationtexan.blogspot.com/2011/04/7-quick-takes-vol-2.html">7 Quick Takes (vol. 2)</a>. So sorry!<br /><br />1. No April Fool’s joke: This is my first time to join “7 Quick Takes Friday”.<br /><br />2. After that exciting bit of information, uh, hmm, so…let’s see. I got nothing. No, wait. I can do this!<br /><br />My husband and I got iPod Touches for our belated Christmas/partly birthday/sort of Valentine’s presents to each other. I <em>love </em>it! We didn’t want iPhones because we didn’t want to be tied to the monthly fees. Trying to cut back, you know.<br /><br />3. We visited my family in Houston a few weeks ago. My mother is home from the hospital but still in a hospital bed. Back to her old self – both good and bad! She was in the hospital over Christmas because of a fall and the resulting broken femur. Her surgery went well, but the recovery was and continues to be difficult. We thought we were losing her (kidney failure from the surgery) but were blessed with a Christmas day miracle. Thank you Lord. However, Mom still has <a href="http://7thgenerationtexan.blogspot.com/2010/12/sad-diagnosis-prayers-needed.html">Corticobasal Degeneration</a>. I ask for continued prayers for her and my dad.<br /><br />4. Moving onto happier thoughts, Princess and I planted our herbs and flowers yesterday evening. Last Saturday, with temperatures in the low 80s, I promised Princess a trip to the nursery the next day, which unfortunately dawned wet, windy and in the 40s. Some cruel joke since I had put away the winter coats the day before. Bravely we all went to the nursery Sunday afternoon, picked out some plants, brought them home, and left them on our balcony. “Too cold for planting,” I said. Finally, it was warm enough yesterday. In other words, the temperature reached the 70s because everyone knows that anything less is considered cold. Insert image of husband rolling eyes.<br /><br />5. Princess spent the time digging in a pot of dirt.<br /><br />6. Princess, aka Little One, <a href="http://7thgenerationtexan.blogspot.com/2011/03/happy-birthday.html">turned five</a> this month. She is expecting a birthday party with friends (we did one with family). I have no ideas. I wanted to keep the cost down by having it at our house, which is really a condo. No, there is no space outside to do anything. And no, I don’t have seating for ~10 kids. I’m at a loss. I thought about doing one of those stuff your own animal parties (I found one for cheaper than most). I guess they could sit on the floor…<br /><br />7. Finally, I also celebrated my birthday this month. It was rather non-eventful since we were having cake for Princess with my family that day. Hint: lots of people wore green on my birthday.<br /><br />For more Quick Takes, check out Jen Fulwiler's <a href="http://www.conversiondiary.com/2011/04/7-quick-takes-friday-vol-122.html">Conversion Diary</a>. Thanks for stopping by, and have a great weekend!Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-68311790074143259452011-03-14T09:13:00.003-05:002011-03-14T09:28:51.698-05:00Happy Birthday!Happy birthday to my wonderful, sweet little girl, who turned five yesterday. You are a gift from God that your father and I treasure every day. May you always be blessed.<br /><br />Over the weekend, my Princess and I took a walk. I asked where she wanted to walk. Her reply: "Let's go say hi to Jesus." Melted my heart. Our parish is three blocks from our home (makes one wonder how we are ever late for Mass), and along the way we stopped to pick flowers. What a lovely walk!Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-90310338089956690612011-03-01T13:18:00.003-06:002011-03-01T13:33:08.388-06:00I had no ideaI had no idea that peanut butter removes that sticky gunk off of glass jars. Maybe I’m the last to know. If not, then try it!<br /><br />I’ve been recycling glass jars by slowly replacing the smaller plastic food containers we’ve been using. But, despite having my husband really go at that sticky residue, we just couldn’t get it all off. Enter the internet where I found various suggestions including peanut butter. I thought “Why not?” and gave it a try. Worked brilliantly! Smooth some on the jar, use a rag or one of those scrubber sponges to go over the area, and rinse. Who knew? (Apparently a lot of people – just not me.)<br /><br />And since I am full of great tips, I used baking soda, water and lots of scrubbing and rinsing to deep clean our slate bathroom floors. I didn’t really verify this one, so do so before you try. Worked great on ours.<br /><br />Happy March!Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-59417544340207115562011-02-22T11:57:00.001-06:002011-02-22T11:59:41.980-06:00I fell for itAs a family, we give our time and resources in three ways. The first, and primary, is through our parish and other catholic charities. Next, we donate new and gently used goods, usually to our parish and city St. Vincent de Paul groups. And a bit farther down on the list, are other charities that we or our friends and colleagues support, either with time or money (although far less time these days). Oh, and a fourth: we support the Girl Scouts by purchasing Thin Mints.<br /><br />Last night, a woman came to our door selling magazines. I never buy, but she had a good I’m-pulling-myself-out-of-poverty-and-domestic-violence story. <em>Sigh</em>. I’m really trying to put my money where my mouth is. We signed up for (ok, <em>I</em> bought) one magazine subscription. I looked up the company afterwards and found many negative reviews from people who didn’t get magazines in a timely manner – or at all. Why, oh why, did I do that?!?!<br /><br />The point of this post is not how much we do (or not do) or how I feel taken advantage of (well, kind of), but what happened next. My wonderful husband talked me out of a freak out. He told me that, despite what may be the end result, I was helping someone. And that I need to remember this. Then, as we were saying family prayers later, he prayed that the person that came to our door was a good person.<br /><br />What a wonderful husband! <em>This </em>is the point of this post. Have a wonderful day!Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-31200339395776876222011-01-10T14:15:00.002-06:002011-01-10T14:18:34.438-06:00More, More, More!That’s right. I want MORE! However, unlike so many others, I’m not trying to gain more power, wealth, fame or stuff. No, I want to improve how I live my life, praise God, and affect others. With that in mind, below is my top 10 “I want MORE!” list:<br /><blockquote>1. Pray more: Everyone can pray more. I can and need to pray more. I look for opportunities to pray throughout the day. But I also need to reassess my committed (and currently very short) time for prayer. And by making my prayers more visible, I hope to lead my husband and daughter to a more active prayer life.<br /><br />2. Do more: My goal is to acquire less so that as a family we can focus on experiencing more. Studies show that it’s not stuff that makes us happy, but the trips and things that we do that promote long-term happiness. Recently, our family has talked about saving for Disney World (popular with our little Princess), taking another cruise (parental favorite!), and planning for future pilgrimages to Rome, the Holy Land, or other locations. Yet, these trips take planning and saving. Meanwhile, we can and should take time to make day trips, visit museums and parks, and plan dates.<br /><br />3. Learn more: I love to read. There is always something new to learn, although learning a new language or picking up an instrument is a bit too optimistic at this time.<br /><br />4. Teach more: Through my words and how I live my life, I am trying to lead others to live better lives.<br /><br />5. Listen more: Yes, I need to listen more to what others are saying. What does my husband really need from me? How can I be more patient in understanding my daughter? What did that person just say on yet another conference call??? <br /><br />6. Create more: Happy times when I am creative. Like most of this list, I just have to make the time.<br /><br />7. Be “more healthy”: My husband and I both need to exercise more (or, if I am honest, start exercising). And while eating healthier (or less unhealthy) than most Americans is great, I know that I can improve my diet and that of my family. I love fruits and veggies, but I’ve got to eat more protein and good fats.<br /><br />8. Give more: We need to count our blessings. We have so much more than so many others. And we really can help others by giving more of our time and resources.<br /><br />9. Relax more: I try – I really do!<br /><br />10. Cuddle more: My daughter just wants someone to play with her. Yes, she needs to learn to entertain herself, but I can attend more tea parties, play more games, and watch more performances. She is growing up so fast, and these are the activities that both of us will remember. I also need to spend more cuddle time with my husband. Although we are usually in the same room in the evenings, we tend to do our own thing. Nice – but not enough. At least some evenings should be spent doing something, even if watching TV, together.</blockquote>There you have it. Any suggestions are welcome.<br /><br />Happy and healthy New Year!Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-58881141010427276172010-12-09T14:33:00.002-06:002010-12-09T14:36:12.517-06:00Sad diagnosis. Prayers neededMy mother has been ill for a number of years. This week, she was diagnosed with Corticobasal Degeneration, a progressive degenerative brain disease that has similarities with both Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Unfortunately, what we thought were physical signs of OCD were mostly likely the early stages of CBD. She has declined rapidly over the past several months and is now getting significantly worse each day. I thought that our upcoming visit for the holidays (what will certainly be our last Christmas with her) could be used to discuss care for her because my father is close to not being able to care for her any more. But that day may come sooner than expected. What looked like months now seems like weeks – or less. This is a disease with no cure and from which patients die, usually of pneumonia or other disease associated with immobile, elderly people.<br /><br />Please pray for my mother, my father and all of us.Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-64923939189289207292010-12-07T09:52:00.001-06:002010-12-07T09:54:01.874-06:00Best prayer ever!From Little One/Princess (I'm still transitioning her name) last night: "Make me a saint, Lord!"Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-85000806427562843282010-12-06T11:01:00.003-06:002010-12-06T11:07:42.020-06:00St. Nicholas has arrived!Our Little Princess remembered St. Nicholas from last Advent, so last night we set out our shoes by the front door. St. Nicholas kindly left chocolate candy in everyone’s shoes and left a small ornament and a book of Catholic prayers for Little One. We thanked God for all of His gifts and asked St. Nicholas to keep us always in his prayers.<br /><br />For those looking for a way to start an Advent tradition, lighting our advent wreath and saying a small prayer with our dinner blessing reminds us of the true meaning of the season – and is easy to keep up! Another tradition that we tried to start <a href="http://7thgenerationtexan.blogspot.com/2009/12/advent-in-our-household.html">last year</a> and have been only partially successful with this year is the Jesse tree. We still don’t have an actual tree, but we did color some pictures (found <a href="http://www.osv.com/Portals/0/images/pdf/JesseTree.pdf">here</a>), cut them out, and made a small book.<br /><br />And we’re participating in our parish’s angel program. This weekend, we purchased clothing for a little girl (still need to get a toy). I’m still struggling with how our daughter reacts to giving to others – or more specifically, buying for others. I know she is still young, but I have a guilty suspicion that some of her attitude comes from us (her parents). Am I too selfish? Too materialistic? Most definitely on both. I’m working on it!<br /><br />Finally, our Nativity is in place on the mantel, complete with moving Mary and Joseph, wise men way off, and no baby Jesus (yet). Happy Advent!Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-76136097576610972052010-11-10T15:05:00.002-06:002010-11-10T15:06:33.957-06:00Another AngelWe found out earlier this week that we lost another baby. We now have four little angels in Heaven praying for the rest of their family here. This one, like the second, never developed past five weeks (we lost the other two around eight-and-a-half weeks).<br /><br />As it turns out, one <em>can </em>be “kind of” pregnant. Like most of the other times, I still have all the first trimester symptoms including being incredibly nauseas all day long. It makes it even more difficult to deal with the emotional loss while still feeling horrible.<br /><br />But we will get through our sadness with faith, prayers and love. Once again, Princess (aka “Little One” – but she’s not so little any more) has the right attitude: she is happy to have an angel in Heaven.Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-76994134908201257022010-10-20T11:43:00.003-05:002010-10-20T11:46:58.184-05:0010 Reasons I Like My JobIn this day and time, I should be happy that I have a job. And I am! As the current breadwinner of my family (hubby has gone back to school), I really need a good job. But sometimes, I feel less than happy when my company institutes pay cuts and lays off thousands of people. We are all asked to do more with less. I’m sure that’s not limited to my company. So, here are the top ten reasons that I like my job:<br /><blockquote>1. It pays the bills (although fewer than before)<br />2. I can work from home if I want/need to<br />3. Which allows me to at least save money on gas, tolls, and general wardrobe costs,<br />4. And lets me get dinner and laundry done sooner (since I am already home and don’t have to make the commute),<br />5. And sometimes means that I have time to go to daily Mass!<br />6. Since I’ve worked at this company for awhile, I have a number of vacation days<br />7. People know me and appreciate what I do, which can come in handy if I need to deal with some personal issues (doctor appointments, sick parents, child’s school function)<br />8. Did I mention that they pay me?<br />9. Company discounts on products<br />10. And I truly do like the people that I work with</blockquote><br />Sometimes I have to remember to be happy, especially since I have a number of friends who have been out of work for months. And I am – I am truly blessed to have a job with such flexibility.Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-26527235589781167052010-09-09T15:53:00.001-05:002010-09-09T16:26:37.788-05:00Celebrating my mothers' birthdaysYesterday we celebrated Mary’s birthday with cupcakes. Unfortunately, they weren’t homemade (no time), but I suppose Mary doesn’t mind. No one in the family complained. This is the first time that we have done something like this for Mary’s birthday.<br /><br />Today is my mother’s birthday. Happy Birthday Mom! We started praying our first family novena this week and chose the novena to St. Dymphna, patron saint of those afflicted with mental disorders. Why do I talk about our novena and my mother’s birthday in the same paragraph? My mother suffers from depression and OCD. We pray for her often.<br /><br />Since she doesn’t believe in getting psychiatric help or counseling, there isn’t much we can do. Texas has very restrictive laws about having someone committed. Years ago, we did a family intervention and somehow got her to an emergency room where she was evaluated by the psychiatrist on staff. He agreed that she suffers from severe OCD, but she refused treatment. And since she wasn’t “waving a gun around” (i.e. threatening direct, bodily harm to herself or others), he had to release her. Friends of mine have suggested actions like leaving her to care for herself (the idea being that she couldn’t and would have to call for help). My father, sister and I truly believe that she would never seek help and instead just waste away.<br /><br />It’s a very sad situation (and hard to explain if you are not around to see and interact yourself). St. Dymphna, pray for my mother. Blessed Mary, pray for my mother.Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-67650088355224944632010-09-08T13:14:00.003-05:002010-09-08T13:31:46.786-05:00Building our marriageWe've all heard that marriage takes work, and that's true. However, working at a marriage doesn't mean yours is bad or that the work need be tedious. Spending quality time together (without the kids) can strengthen and renews your love and commitment to each other.<br /><br />Hubby and I recently spent nine days (but who was counting <em>exactly</em>) without our daughter around. The house was certainly quieter! Little One spent time with her grandparents, and we were able to spend time with just each other. We also attended a marriage conference in Denton, TX: "The two will become one" (Ephesians 5:31). One thousand people (presumably 500 couples) registered for the event, and most were there. We listened to speakers <a href="http://www.scotthahn.com/">Dr. Scott Hahn</a> and <a href="http://www.thealexanderhouse.org/">Greg & Julie Alexander</a>, ate lunch with other lovely couples, and had the opportunity for Adoration (which I had to explain to my Protestant husband). I highly recommend taking advantage of events like this going on in your diocese.<br /><br />On another note, where does the time do? I can't believe over a month has gone by since I blogged about materialism. Surely that can't be right!Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-20804523984894648492010-08-03T12:35:00.008-05:002010-08-03T14:49:07.701-05:00God spoke to me!In recent weeks, we've been discussing materialism in our family (well, maybe it's just me). Personally, I've been struggling quite a bit lately with the desire for material goods. I fully understand and embrace the fact that I am blessed with a comfortable life: home, car, job, physical comforts, relatively healthy family. We are better off than 90% (or higher) of the planet. But it's when I compare myself to the other 10% that I start to feel down. Why can't we have a house with a yard? Why can't we just pop out and buy a new car? Why can't we go on a nice vacation?<br /><br />But then I start to feel bad for focusing on material goods. Catholic guilt? Maybe. I certainly don't want to lose sight of the ultimate level of comfort: being with God in Heaven.<br /><br />As if to reinforce the point, God spoke quite clearly to me this Sunday through the Mass readings (Ecc 1:2, 2:21-23; Col 3:1-5, 9-11; Lk 12:13-21). In case you missed it (and I hope you were there!), the theme was around the vanity and idolatry of focusing on material things. It's not that material things are bad. But when we focus on them, we are distracted from what truly matters: God.Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-17152850684181437062010-06-25T13:02:00.003-05:002010-06-25T13:10:15.413-05:00Some things just seem so obvious......like <em>NOT</em> handing out condoms to elementary school children. But the Provincetown, MA school district recently passed a policy (thankfully now under review) that would provide condoms to any student who asks for one, including children in elementary school. No parental consent needed. That's right: your 6-year-old first grader will have access to free condoms. Of course, the student has to meet with the school nurse first so that he or she has the right information. I'm not even sure what that means!<br /><br />Scary. And just a little sick.Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-32418882320346237442010-06-18T14:45:00.003-05:002010-06-18T15:05:12.005-05:00Wow...Wow, I can't believe how long it has been since I last posted anything! I blame it on my job (darn that job for getting in the way of fun stuff!). We've done some family traveling to visit both sets of grandparents, but there never seems to be enough time to really relax and enjoy the company. And on that note, we really thought that our prayers had been answered on where to move (stay in Dallas, or move to Houston or San Antonio where we have family): an opportunity to take over my late grandmother's house if we took out a loan to make repairs. Totally doable if that became our "mortgage" - as long as we could sell our current house first. But, just like that, this is no longer an option. So...back to praying about where God wants us to go. It still may be Houston, just not in that house.<br /><br />Otherwise, we've planted cherry tomatoes, peppers, basil, sunflowers (birds ate those),and cucumbers (wow, do those get big!). But the birds and caterpillars take their share. I'm trying to be organic, so I don't want to spray.<br /><br />Speaking of organic, we are trying to buy all of our meat and eggs from a local, free range, organic farm. You really can see and taste a difference! It's not cheap, but not really that different in price for organic meat from the grocery store (that may not be free range, local, etc.)<br /><br />On that note, have a wonderful weekend!Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-78681947430490883632010-05-07T14:07:00.004-05:002010-05-07T16:20:00.875-05:00Making the Big Money!Since Little One turned four in March, she has been receiving an allowance. We discussed this concept for quite some time before hubby and I agreed on what an allowance means, how much, etc. Angie gave us a <a href="http://www.manylittleblessings.com/2007/09/chores-and-allowanceoh-my/">good outline</a> from which to start our discussion.<br />First, her allowance is not tied to chores since she is expected to do her chores anyway. Neither will it be tied to grades in the future (a hot topic: hubby thinks it would have helped him in school to be paid for grades; I liked school enough that paying me would not have mattered). I believe that paying for chores (except perhaps something extra done by the child) or grades suggests that one should get paid for doing what one should do anyway.<br /><br />We pay her on Fridays at 50 cents per year, so she currently gets $2.00. We require her to put 30% ($0.60) in the "saving" piggy bank, and give 10% ($0.20) to the church. The rest goes into the Hello Kitty bank to spend as she wants.<br /><br />We've noticed several things since starting the weekly allowance. First, Little One is excited to put her two dimes, along with our Sunday envelope, into the collection basket at church. Second, she doesn't question the idea of putting aside some money for long term savings. And finally, we've been able to significantly cut down on the "gimmies " (from a Berenstain Bears book). All it takes to get Little One to stop asking for a toy is to tell her that she can use her money if she wants.<br /><br />To me, the allowance is meant to teach fiscal responsibility, sharing with others (especially those less fortunate), and patience. She is still young, and it’s only been a few months, but I am pleased so far!Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-59572717351839202782010-04-23T13:39:00.000-05:002010-04-23T14:22:29.482-05:00Bless us, O LordKids say the darndest things Friday - April 23 issue<br /><br />I am attempting to do a better job about why we pray a certain way, do certain things at Mass, etc. For instance, our daughter is pretty good at learning the prayers - and that is the first step, but I realized recently that she may not really understand some of the words or ideas.<br /><br />In attempt to explain why we say a blessing before we eat, Little One and I had the following conversation:<br /><br /><blockquote>Mommy: “Do you know why we say a blessing before we eat?”<br />Little One: “No.”<br />Mommy: “It’s to thank God for giving us food.”<br />Little One: “Actually, God gives the food to grocery stores and Whole Foods, and then we go buy it.”</blockquote><br />Close...so close.Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-25155465680720017052010-04-09T11:54:00.004-05:002010-04-09T12:03:24.881-05:00Kids say the darndest things Friday - April 9 issueJoin us for <a href="http://mysticalrosedesign.blogspot.com/">Kids say the darndest things Fridays</a> over at Mystical Rose Design.<br /><br />From last week while discussing the meaning of Easter: "<a href="http://7thgenerationtexan.blogspot.com/2010/04/easter-through-eyes-of-4-year-old.html">But I want to stay in Dallas!</a>"Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-39242806297563284582010-04-04T19:27:00.005-05:002010-05-07T16:21:32.318-05:00Easter through the eyes of a 4-year-oldApparently a tradition was started last year when the Easter bunny left goodies on the front porch when we visited my family. So this year, we had to do the same thing. This works as long as we can get the basket outside before Little One opens the door.<br /><br />On Good Friday, we went to the 3 pm veneration of the cross and communion service. Little One did very well during the long service. We also discussed what Easter really means: Jesus died and rose again from the dead so that our sins could be forgiven and so that we can go to Heaven to be with God. Little One's response: "But I want to stay in Dallas!"Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-28532872869813910072010-03-19T15:57:00.004-05:002010-03-19T16:17:47.267-05:00Kids views on lifeThis is my first attempt at joining a blog hop (or whatever they are called). Lucy, over at Mystical Rose Design, is hosting (is that the right phrase? am I really that old that I don't know this???) a blog hop called "<a href="http://mysticalrosedesign.blogspot.com/2010/03/post-signature_19.html">Kids say the darndest things Fridays</a>".<br /><br />And yes, Little One has come up with some interesting sayings and interpretations. One of my more recent favorites is "<a href="http://7thgenerationtexan.blogspot.com/2009/10/from-back-seat.html">there is no God like Joe</a>".<br /><br />Head on over to some of the other blogs for other cute kids.Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-42283553026360193182010-03-16T14:49:00.004-05:002010-03-17T10:39:59.279-05:00One more yearHappy Birthday to my sweet Little One! She turned four this past weekend (I can't believe it!). This is the first year that we gave a birthday party with kids. She had a blast!<br /><br />My birthday is tomorrow. So far, this decade seems...less energetic...than the last. Women, note that your hormones really do start to decline in your late 30s to early 40s. Ugh - I have to get some energy back somehow!<br /><br />And, of course, tomorrow is St. Patrick's Day! (Good thing I like the color green; lots of green birthday cakes growing up.) Little One and I will be discussing the Trinity (hopefully with a shamrock art project, but that depends on Mommy's energy level). Maybe we can say the <a href="http://7thgenerationtexan.blogspot.com/2009/03/st-patricks-day.html">St. Patrick's chaplet</a>.<br /><br />Have a great St. Patrick's Day, wear green, and pray for greater faith!<br /><br />PS: We managed to make and decorate a shamrock yesterday. We talked about the Trinity -- and then Little One handed me the shamrock and said "Happy Birthday!" Apparently she and her father had already discussed making me a green card, and I confused the matter by making a green shamrock. :)Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7868637762207329063.post-34055245746344926312010-03-10T20:08:00.005-06:002010-03-10T20:25:04.509-06:00Lent at our house - How are we doing so far?Little One found a way around the "fasting from shopping during Lent": visit the grandparents who acted as babysitters one night, fail to mention the family Lenten fast from shopping, get grandfather to buy stuffed animals and two DVDs - and then explain to Mommy the next morning that these weren't really <em>toys</em> but rather a stuffed animal and movies (because I must have explained it to her as "no buying things like toys").<br /><br />Purchasing canned goods for weekly donations: not so well. But we will do this. It just may be in one lump sum.<br /><br />Lighting purple candles: sort of, but we're running low on candles, which aren't really a necessity, so...back to our white Lady of Guadalupe candle.<br /><br />Reading books on Lent, Stations of the Cross, and Easter: at least we have one success! We also started a book on the rosary and then said the introductory prayers using her rosary beads. How precious is that?<br /><br />Hanging Stations of the Cross around the house: we haven't done this at all, and I had to admit this failure to <a href="http://mysticalrosedesign.blogspot.com/">Lucy</a> in the comments section of <a href="http://7thgenerationtexan.blogspot.com/2010/02/lent-at-our-house.html">Lent at our house</a>.Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15122876076703939623noreply@blogger.com0