It's the little things....

I think I've mentioned that my older sister had a massive stroke a year and a half ago.  She has slowly been making progress in her recovery and we're thrilled to pieces to still have her with us on this earth.  Just in the last week, she made dinner for her family twice and was able to go to the bathroom by herself.  When I think of the things I complain about or get my feathers ruffled about, I try hard to think of her and thank God that I am able to wash dishes, sweep floors, and go potty (even if I still have visitors when I'm in there!).  Certainly puts things into perspective for me. 

Years ago, I was in a Familia group with ladies from our church.  If you haven't heard of it, please look it up.  We studied the encyclicals of the popes during a three-year commitment.  Anyway, one of the things we'd do every time we met was to set "goals" based on what we'd read that week.  One of those times, I remember writing that I would strive to not complain about my husband's shaving "leftovers" in the bathroom sink, because if they weren't in there, it would mean he wasn't in my life.  I try really hard to keep up with that promise and not let the little things bother me so much.

What about you?

Gospel Reflection

This Sunday, we celebrate Sts. Peter and Paul.  We hear Jesus literally begin our Catholic Church.  "And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church."  My parish growing up was St. Peter the Apostle so I grew up knowing just how important Peter was to our history.  We had the upside down cross hanging outside our building to remind us that Peter wouldn't allow his killers to crucify him as Jesus was crucified.  In a weird turn of events, I find myself teaching and being the DRE at St. Peter the Apostle parish in anther state and town.  Apparently, Peter is meant to be in my life.  ;)

What stands out for you this weekend?

Back to the real world....

Our vacation was fantastic!!!  Could've stayed in D.C. for a month and still not seen it all.  The wedding was beautiful and it was great to be with almost all of the family.  Couldn't have asked for a better time!

Now I'm back to refereeing between the kids, washing clothes, cooking, and working part-time (from home).  As soon as we get into the swing of things, it'll be time for me to head back to school for in-service.  Summer is flying by!

How are you?  What's been going on with everyone? 

Still dark....

It's 4:37 a.m. and we're waiting to board a plane.  It's finally my cousin's wedding weekend in Baltimore!  Our flight leaves at 5:30, so I thought I'd touch base before we leave.  I'll be busy for the next week, but please use this post to keep in touch.  I'll try to check in when I have a chance.  Please pray for our safe travels and good health.  You'll be in my prayers, as well.  God bless!

Rain, rain, go away....

Don't get me wrong.  We have desperately needed rain, but it has been raining for four or five days straight.  We canceled a trip to the pool on Friday and have basically been inside since then, except for Mass and a grocery store run.  What do you do when you're rained in?

I scream, you scream....

So now that it's summer, let's talk ice cream.  What is your favorite flavor?  Brand?  Do you make it at home?  My mother-in-law bought us a really nice ice cream maker a couple years ago.  So we'll be pulling it out and trying some different recipes this summer.  As for buying it at the store, we buy Blue Bell.  We're originally from Texas, so there's no other brand for us.  ;)

Prayer

Thought I'd share my favorite prayer with you today.  There's just something about these words that connect with my heart.  What is your favorite prayer?

Soul of Christ, sanctify me
Body of Christ, save me
Blood of Christ, inebriate me
Water from Christ's side, wash me
Passion of Christ, strengthen me
O good Jesus, hear me
Within Thy wounds hide me
Suffer me not to be separated from Thee
From the malicious enemy defend me
In the hour of my death call me
And bid me come unto Thee
That I may praise Thee with Thy saints
and with Thy angels
Forever and ever
Amen 

 

Gospel Reflection

Happy birthday to our dear Church!  We celebrate Pentecost this weekend.  Jesus appears in front of the disciples and "breathed on them and said to them, 'Receive the Holy Spirit.  Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.'"  What a beautiful image!  We see the institution of the sacrament of Reconciliation.  I'll be the first to admit that I do not enjoy going to Confession, but when I leave, I always feel better.  What about you? 

Do you have any special traditions in your family to celebrate Pentecost?

Friday Fun Day

What's on tap for your weekend?  Any special plans?  Yummy meals?

Happy Summer!

Well, our summer has finally started.  We've made it through recital and my parents' visit.  We've slept late two days in a row and spent yesterday afternoon at the pool.  Just something about water and sunshine that makes my heart happy.  I apologize for the few days off. 

So what's been going on with you?  Is everyone done with school yet?