Choosing Thomas

TK and Deidrea Laux were planning for their first child's birth when they got the very difficult news that their son, Thomas, had Trisomy 13 and would not live long after birth if he survived it at all. This is a beautiful, sad and heroic love story about a little baby boy and the parents who fell in love with him before he was born. Life is so precious----why don't we love each other like it were the last day of our lives? Thomas Laux and his parents taught me that today.

Mayim Bialik

Anyone remember "Blossom," an early 90s sitcom about a teenager played by Mayim Bialik? She was a young actress and practicing Jew who is now married with children and holds a doctorate degree. What I found interesting was that her parenting methods were called 'controversial.' However, they are pretty normal among a lot of family and friends of mine. Hearing her talk about the importance of her faith and raising her kids in an atmosphere where their faith is lived was very edifying. Check it out here.

Friday is here!

Friday mornings are the best mornings of the work week for me, and maybe for most people. I get out of bed and realize that it isthe last day of the work week--always a welcome thought. It means happier coworkers, not as much phone ringing, pizza for lunch compliments of my boss, and this Friday is payday. :) That means a trip to the bank to withdraw the cash that we'll need for the month: groceries, household, spending. And then when I get home, I'll write the first checks of the month to our parish and to another charity. The mortgage check comes next.

As I see the money come in and go out for bills and such, I am reminded that we can have a home and spending money and give to charity because of getting up in the morning to go to a job that I am grateful to have. So, on Monday when I sit up, blinking my eyes open and realizing that it's the start of another week, I'll remember that many of the blessings I have are because God has given me the opportunity to work.

...or maybe I'll feel more grateful after the first cup of coffee. :)

A Walking Novena

Today I started a Novena to St. Therese. Instead of driving, I walked around Poulsbo, specifically to the library which is my frequent hangout during lunch break. The prayer, along with the 24 Glory Be's, was nice to pray while walking up the big hill and being out in the sunshine eating blackberries along the way. I especially liked how the prayer states when asking the favor from God, "if it is in accordnace with Thy most Holy Will and is not an obstacle to my salvation." That, coupled with the 24 Glory Be's of gratitude, helped me have purity of intention and humility in the face of all my blessings.

Lucy is 2!

We had the pleasure of seeing our good friends, Joe and Ashley and their family recently while they were visiting from Virginia. Their youngest child, Lucy, is our youngest goddaughter. Lucy turned two years old on August 13, so we got to celebrate her bday with her a day early. She is a spunky and beautiful girl and we're so blessed to be her godparents. Prayers and love to you, Lucy! xoxo

Thoughts

Recently, I had a bit of interior turmoil regarding someone I know well. A conversation needs to occur with this person regarding some things and since I am a wimp when it comes to this type of thing, I have done a lot of praying about it--"Please Lord, help me to be kind but firm, please don't let me cry tears of anger (that's super annoying to everyone), and please help me get my thoughts across." Around this time I read about families who have suffered tragedies recently or who are recovering from near tragedies. I was reminded that 'this too shall pass' and that life is too short to remain angry about some things. Perhaps, a new chapter can be started with this person and perhaps I will grow in love and wisdom.

Mother, make my heart like yours--capable of loving.