The Stump

My Little Love

2011-04-07T14:22:00.002-04:00

I love your squeeze hugs.

A new family blog!!!

2009-01-01T23:47:00.003-04:00

As we welcome the year of 2009, we are pleased to usher our new family blog www.cosmOclan.blogspot.com. A new name and design. Same people. Fun new photos, thoughts, and stories.

Please change your favorites/bookmarks and join us at cosmOclan!

(This will be our last post at The Stump.)

Happy Feast Day, my little Guadalupe!

2008-12-12T18:15:00.004-04:00

My dearest Guadalupe,

Happy Feast Day! Ever since your conception, your mother and I have consecrated you to our Lady of Guadalupe. She continues to protect you and watch over you. Your life has brought an incredible and indescribable joy to our lives. Every night, I go to bed looking forward to the new day so that I can see your little face asleep on the pillow. You've recently been making a myriad of different noises and coos. Not only does each one bring a smile to the faces of your loving parents but also, undoubtedly, to the countenance of our Lady of Guadalupe.

Never forget our love for you. Never forget the joy you bring us. Thank you for the honor and privilege of being your dad. May our Lady of Guadalupe continue to keep you. You're so special to me.

All my love,
Dad

True Love, True Feminism, The Ideal

2008-12-11T14:21:00.002-04:00

Click here to read "Love Begins with a Dream"

A garden bower in flower Grew waiting for God's hand: Where no man ever trod, This was the Gate of God. The first bower was red -— Her lips which "welcome" said. The second bower was blue -— Her eyes that let God through. The third bower was white -— Her soul in God's sight. Three bowers of love Now Christ from Heaven above. -— LAWRENCE HOUSMAN

The Best Birthday in the World

2008-12-05T22:38:00.004-04:00

Around 3:00pm we made our way over to Old Town Alexandria for Baby Jesus' Birthday Party here. We went to meet some of our friends there and even met up with more friends who also happened to be there for this ultimate birthday celebration. It was very enjoyable. What made it cheerful to start was the joyful atmosphere of the bookstore. I remember going to the Daughters' bookstore growing up and loving it. The nuns were cheerful and sincere, just like their Groom. The afternoon was delightful. There was storytelling, picture-taking, dressing up as one of the holy people at the Nativity and posing beside the Christchild in the creche, and last but not least, the eating of birthday cake. Jesus knows how to make toddlers happy, being that He was one Himself! Madge had a blast. She wanted to dress up as the Blessed Mama, and, with her friend (dressed as St. Joseph) posed beside the creche. On the way home, I asked her what her favorite part was, and here are two (favorites), prioritized as such: 1.) Cake; 2.) Touching Baby Jesus. After speaking to 2 of her 4 grandparents following this event, both of them were ready to take the cake, or should I say the blame(?) for Maddy thoroughly enjoying the treat aspect of the night. It was an enjoyable afternoon and a good reminder of just what all the hoopla is all about.

Just Tendin'

2008-12-05T22:30:00.002-04:00

This morning Madge was just 'tendin baking cookies. When my Mom was here Maddy and Mom would just 'tend and play "picnic." Instead of a picnic, it was baking. She was rolling, and cookie-cutting some playdough with our new cookie cutters that we will use to make our favorite sugar cookies for Christmas gifts. I love you, Madge, and our moments together. You are my dear friend.

Weak in the knees for...

2008-12-04T22:12:00.000-04:00

Daddy!
Over the past couple weeks Pita has been doing the sweetest little gazes at Daddy. She'll stare at him, then he looks, and her addictive, drooly smile bursts and she turns her head into me, almost as if she's saying, "Oh, Dad! Did you catch me admiring you again?!"

Novena to Our Lady of Guadalupe

2008-12-04T21:51:00.003-04:00

"Am I not here who am your mother?"

First Day

Dearest Lady of Guadalupe, fruitful Mother of holiness, teach me your ways of gentleness and strength. Hear my humble prayer offered with heartfelt confidence to beg this favor......
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory.

Second Day

O Mary, conceived without sin, I come to your throne of grace to share the fervent devotion of your faithful Mexican children who call to you under the glorious Aztec title of Guadalupe. Obtain for me a lively faith to do your Son’s holy will always: May His will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory.

Third Day
O Mary, whose Immaculate Heart was pierced by seven swords of grief, help me to walk valiantly amid the sharp thorns strewn across my pathway. Obtain for me the strength to be a true imitator of you. This I ask you, my dear Mother.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory.

Fourth Day
Dearest Mother of Guadalupe, I beg you for a fortified will to imitate your divine Son’s charity, to always seek the good of others in need. Grant me this, I humbly ask of you.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory.

Fifth Day
O most holy Mother, I beg you to obtain for me pardon of all my sins, abundant graces to serve your Son more faithfully from now on, and lastly, the grace to praise Him with you forever in heaven.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory.

Sixth Day
Mary, Mother of vocations, multiply priestly vocations and fill the earth with religious houses which will be light and warmth for the world, safety in stormy nights. Beg your Son to send us many priests and religious. This we ask of you, O Mother.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory.

Seventh Day
O Lady of Guadalupe, we beg you that parents live a holy life and educate their children in a Christian manner; that children obey and follow the directions of their parents; that all members of the family pray and worship together. This we ask of you, O Mother.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory.

Eighth Day
With my heart full of the most sincere veneration, I prostrate myself before you, O Mother, to ask you to obtain for me the grace to fulfill the duties of my state in life with faithfulness and constancy.
Our father, Hail Mary, Glory.

Ninth Day
O God, You have been pleased to bestow upon us unceasing favors by having placed us under the special protection of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary. Grant us, your humble servants, who rejoice in honoring her today upon earth, the happiness of seeing her face to face in heaven.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory.

Korea fun

2008-12-03T20:29:00.007-04:00

This week I am participating at some governmental negotiations in Seoul. I wasn't able to bring my camera, but here are photos from the web.

I have been staying at the Westin Chosun, which is a convenient walk away from the embassy. On the map, one can see the embassy location. The Chosun is next to city hall. It's chilly outside but very pleasant.

Althouggh our meetings yesterday were with officials from six ministries, they were all hosted at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Fun fact about Korea: while home to its (in)famous kimchi, Korea is actually a kimchi net importer. Thank you, China. (This is comparable to the U.S. being a net importer of hot dogs.)

Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, and 7-11 have done a fabulous job of market penetration over here. They can be found on almost every corner. Madge, I'll try to get you a couple donut holes. (No kimchi flavor available: sorry!) Seriously, though, I did have kimchi the last time I was here in Seoul. Yesterday for lunch at the embassy cafeteria, however, I opted for the turkey and cheese sandwich.

My Date

2008-12-03T15:48:00.003-04:00

Today I had a date with one of my heart throbs. I think we connected. She's a keeper.

PicassA at Work

2008-12-02T19:50:00.004-04:00

Madge wanted to paint tonight, so she had my 17-year-old Mardi Gras apron (given to me from Dad after his trip to Louisiana)--knotted at the neck, and thrice rolled at her waist, paint brush in-hand, and the recipient of the art already decided: Daddy. Here she is in action.

Your little PicassA

2008-12-02T19:47:00.004-04:00

Sweets, she's making this for you.

Friday at the (Special) Mall

2008-12-02T15:20:00.003-04:00

This past Friday, Post-Thanksgiving-Friday, the girls and I bundled up and headed north to our beloved Nation's Capital for a stroll with The Daddy-Wads after he broke out of the office into the crisp, evening air. It was delightful. Every time I look at our kids I'm humbled, for so many reasons, but for starters, their childlike curiosity and simplicity fills me with peace. As we ventured onto The Mall (The Special Mall---had to clarify for Madge since she was expecting a "real" mall) amidst the droves of tourists, DC professionals, and the old and young alike, Maddy bent down and touched the ground. Who would have thought a girl could be so lucky to find sand AND rocks at this special "mall" all in one place and one night? Maddy carefully plucked a pebble from the gritty sand and let it plop to the ground before gawking at the passers-by. The winter sky was illuminated at the horizon by the sinking sun and the Capitol stood silently in the backdrop. As we snapped photos here and there, we eventually made our way over to the playful Carousel that was dancing merrily around-and-round. We didn't even have to climb on to enjoy its jolly tempo. On our way out to Independence Avenue, we meandered through the grounds and placid gardens of the Smithsonian castle. After such an enjoyable evening, we all felt like a royal family, in just spending time together.
Update: On our way past the city yesterday, Maddy saw the Washington Monument and said "The special mall!" And, the evening before that we were on our way to the local mall, and Madge asked if we were going to the "special mall." Learning the meaning behind synonyms is beginning...at the age of 2.

Our Saturday

2008-12-01T13:47:00.002-04:00

This past Saturday we took advantage of time with friends (4 families total) and a mix of the guys' talents to capture our Christmas picture this year. We had a great time, and the kids loved romping around with one another. Here are a couple of picks from the 200-or-so shots. (Thank God for digital!)

Madgebites

2008-12-01T13:32:00.005-04:00

Yesterday at morning Mass, during the homily, Madge decided to notice a blemish on my chin and take notice of a fellow Mass-goer's little growth. As indiscreet as a child can try to be or as quiet as one attempts to be, the chatter just isn't discrete. Her taking notice went something like this:

Madge: "Mom, you bonked?" (pointing to my chin and asking: "You hurt yourself?"
Me: "Yes, I bonked.")
Shortly thereafter Maddy gazes to the lady seated a nice, intimate 1 1/2 feet away from us in the pew ahead.
Pointing directly at the lady and the lady's nice, plump mole by the side of her eye, Maddy begins to state her next recognition.
Madge: "Mom, that lady bonked too!"
I'm glad some words in our house are coded.

Maddy Thinks You're Funny

2008-11-28T07:36:00.004-04:00

Picture Maddy at 6:30am, standing in the kitchen, squinting with her puffy-sleep eyes at the phone screen and playing the video over and over again. She thinks you're funny! Happy 'Anksgivin'! Lub you.

We are Thankful

2008-11-27T20:44:00.004-04:00

Today on Thanksgiving we give God thanks for so many blessings from the gift of our new daughter and sweet joy, Pita, to the fact that Madge potty-trained herself, gives us kisses when she plays pretend and "leaves the house for the store," and for the most fundamental and yet precious gifts as our very lives. Thank you, God. We woke up this morning (something we are grateful of in and of itself) to Madge and Pita nestling together, snug in our bed. Their presence was a treat, a real reason to wake up thankful for a new day. Once our feet hit the ground we were off slowly but steadily to brew some "coppee" before returning to resting in bed as a family. These are the best times, and I love them. After getting some breakfast we got ready for 9am Mass. How thankful we are to have a real Thanksgiving Meal everyday in the Eucharist. In his homily the pastor stated how we often take things so for granted and that we don't need to wait for this official Thanksgiving day to come before we say thank you.
When we arrived home from Mass we made a small brunch of simmered apples with brown sugar and cinnamon, pumpkin bread, delicious coffee, and fresh whipped cream. The morning was beautiful: sunny and low 50s. We headed to our neighbors' for a visit before heading outdoors to play and then take a walk through the sun-lit sidewalks. The fresh air felt so nice and energizing. The girls layed down for a nap, while we tried to organize Christmas gift ideas. Dinner was in motion, and there was one last pie to make: a St. Louis Custard Pie. While I finished dinner, Madge awoke, frazzle-haired and rosey-cheeked and joined me in the kitchen. Caleb and Maddy took another turn outside with Maddy's friends and played soccer and catch. Pita didn't even eat turkey, but she slept over three hours. (Sometimes the habits of Thanksgiving are just instinctual.) Our dinner menu consisted of a turkey breast (made as closely to Dad's as I could); gravy with sautteed onions and celery; garlic mashed potatoes and mozzarella cheese; Mom's green bean casserole; Baking Powder Drop Biscuits; cranberry sauce; and, sparkling cider, followed by pecan pie and pumpkin pie with fresh whipped cream (and maybe even some Custard Pie later). And, a larger-sized pair of pants. All in all, it was a very special day. I am thankful for so many things, but I was able to synthesize my thanks into five gifts this evening as we began a new tradition at our dinner table. We each had a cut-out of a hand and wrote what 5 things we are thankful for. We will tuck those away in a little envelope and re-read them next year while adding to our bountiful blessings as each year passes with abundant gifts. We are truly grateful to God for so many gifts including the love we have for one another, within our own family, and for our families on both sides. Each person has impacted us in so many ways, and we thank God for each member of our families as well as our dear friends and the graces we have been granted through these connections.

Poop on Elmo

2008-11-27T00:51:00.004-04:00

I have been waiting to use this title for a post for a long time. Other parents around the world can share in my jubilation. A week and a half ago, Maddy decided to cut the diapers cold-turkey. Mary and I didn't put up a fight to that. She has done really well, no accidents at day or at night. We'll see how this continues, but it's neat to see her reach these milestones independently. Anyway, I still wish I had an Elmo to poop on. P.S. Have you visited your library recently?

First Bangage Trim = First Haircut!

2008-11-23T14:05:00.002-04:00

Last week we trimmed Maddy's hair a bit... just the front. The curls have remained untouched.

Revisiting All Saints' Eve

2008-11-23T13:56:00.002-04:00

Madge and Pita were a pair: Juan Diego and Our Lady of Guadalupe. In the last photo, we were at friends' home where we entered our Bob the Tomato jack'o'lantern and our Apple Cobbler. Both won!

Happy Birthday, Matt and Micah!

2008-11-22T10:45:00.005-04:00

Today we celebrate a dual-birthday of our brothers. Happy birthday, Matt! Happy birthday, Micah! We love you and are thankful to God to have you in our lives. Thank you for the love you have shared and the people you have brought into our lives. You both have beautiful treasures, and we thank God for these jewels. May God bless you on this special feast day and may you always know the love and joy of your family and friends who rejoice in your lives this day. All our love.

Happy Birthday, Aunty Mimi!

2008-11-21T08:25:00.003-04:00

Today we celebrate your 18 years on earth, a place that is blessed with your existence. We love you and pray that you may always know how much joy you bring to so many lives, including the four of ours. Our love and prayers are with you today, tomorrow, and always as you journey onwards reaching the goals God has planned for you. Happy birthday! Our prayers are with you in a special way on this memorial.

A Slipper Sort of Day

2008-11-19T22:59:00.003-04:00

As the days get colder, so do our toes.

Divine Mercy Care (DMC) Gala

2008-11-16T13:34:00.002-04:00

Last night, Mary and I had the wonderful opportunity of attending the DMC Gala near Dulles Airport. Invited by some friends, we enjoyed a night out on the town, dining, conversing, and dancing with hundreds of staunch pro-life families. Divine Mercy Care is a fabulous apostolate and it was through them that Pita came into this world. Here are a few photos from last night.

Pictures from Visiting Caleb's Family Last Weekend

2008-11-14T18:03:00.002-04:00

There is hope beyond abortion

2008-11-12T13:30:00.001-04:00

Check this out.

One Year Ago Today

2008-11-06T21:09:00.004-04:00

...Maddy kissed her (on the inside).

Now she can give her a kiss on the outside. How happy she is to have Pita here.

Ironic

2008-10-30T15:00:00.001-04:00

This is a very good read, one to call to mind in these next days leading up to an election that will alter the course of so many lives, born and unborn.

Watch out, your candy might be redistributed...

2008-10-30T08:46:00.005-04:00

Happy Birthday, Jenny!

2008-10-28T08:29:00.001-04:00

Happy 35th birthday, Aunty Lou! We hope you have a wonderful day, a wonder-filled week, a year of peaceful moments and happy times, and a lifetime of joy knowing that you are loved by so many family and friends, with whom you've shared yourself and your many talents. Our love and prayers are with you today, especially. All of our love and prayers to you, Mary, Caleb, Maddy and Pita.
Here is a song for you!
Sts. Simon and Jude, please pray for us.

Laughing Contagion

2008-10-27T20:32:00.002-04:00

It's great to see Madge and Pita already entertaining each other!

Shenandoah Valley Camping Trip, October 3-5

2008-10-24T12:37:00.007-04:00

We had a wonderful camping trip with our friends Tom and Rebekah, and their girlies Moira and Addie, and several of their friends a couple of weeks ago. It was breathtaking to be outdoors all weekend, sleeping in a tent, hiking in the mountains that overlook the picturesque Shenandoah Valley, sitting around the campfire at night with only the moonlight and stars shining above, playing Apples to Apples, and enjoying the special moments and conversations of life with good friends. Maddy had a blast and an adventuresome time boating in Tom and Rebekah's raft-canoe on the Shenandoah with Caleb and waking up to find her good friend in the tent beside ours. Does life get much better than that when you're two? Pita was a trooper and had a ball sleeping outdoors and falling asleep at night in our arms as we chatted and roasted marshmallows beside the bonfire. It was such an enjoyable weekend hanging out with dear friends and just having time to appreciate the little things in life; the things that we take for granted on a daily basis. The beauty of the earth was something to be in awe of and reflect upon. God is good.

How much clearer can things be?

2008-10-22T20:40:00.001-04:00

"Not all moral issues have the same moral weight as abortion and euthanasia. There may be legitimate diversity of opinion even among Catholics about waging war and applying the death penalty, but not... with regard to abortion and euthanasia." - Pope Benedict XVI

Remember Us

2008-10-22T08:07:00.010-04:00

The other day I turned on the vacuum here at home: something ordinary that no one would really think much about. There was one thing that made me flinch, though, after I saw Pita break into tears at the sound of the vacuum. The sound of it and the timing of that sound, broke her little world of quiet concentration and peacefulness. And yet I was there to comfort her. At that moment I thought about the little people, the little people that are often forgotten, especially in this country where they are not only forgotten, but there is aggressive promotion to forget them, agressive promotion to kill them. The unborn baby's silent, peaceful, and cosy existence in her mothers' womb is broken on a daily basis, in fact, thousands of times each day when tools are used to suck every part of the unborn children's bodies from their once-safe and cosy haven--their mothers' womb. When I saw Pita flinch at the noise of the very powerful vacuum, I could not help but think of how awful, how scary, how excruciating it must be for these babies, their tiny bodies that DO. FEEL. EVERY. BIT. OF. PAIN. to undergo murder under the hands of doctors, doctors that one moment can welcome life into this world, and in the next moment end an innocent baby's future in that same world. Have you ever been awakened in the middle of the night by some noise, a dream, a bad pain? How blessed we are in those moments afterwards to experience that it was just a dream or that the noise came and went, or that the pain was oh, so temporary. Not for an unborn child, though. That pain is real. It is life-threatening. It kills. It even leaves her mother wounded for life. Abortion is not silent. (Last Sunday as the four of us were praying outside a local abortion mill with fellow families, the woman who leads Respect Life at our parish told us that AAA is located next to this particular abortion mill, where on a daily basis, they can hear the abortion machines being used. It is that loud that they (AAA) turns on the Divine Mercy cd not only to drown out the horrible noise but also to be used its prayerful message as a means of mercy to the abortion staff and the disillusioned moms undergoing the torture of abortion.) Although many people want to dismiss the atrocity of abortion and pretend that it is just "one" of many important issues at stake this election, we cannot deny its gravity, its severity, its fundamental importance upon which all other issues, yes, ISSUES, are built. If the president of the U.S. cannot guarantee the safety and protection of the feeblest, the most innocent, and precious lives: the unborn, how can a citizen (outside the womb) be even slightly sure his or her safety will be upheld?. As a priest at our parish mentioned in his homily this past Sunday, "It is as though Satan is chewing life up at both ends--in the womb and with the sick and elderly with euthanasia. Before going to the polls in less than two weeks, let's not kids ourselves and pretend that abortion is a side issue. But rather, let us recall the protection that our mother's gave us when each of us was just a little embryo, a fetus, a little one, a human being in utero, and speak up for the voiceless who would do anything to be in our shoes where we are safe, free, unscathed, and able to choose life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness not only for ourselves but more importantly, for the unborn and elderly whose voices are being muffled.

Saturday Sleepy Time

2008-10-18T15:03:00.005-04:00

After a game of golf for Daddy with his friends, and a morning spent at the playground for Maddy with her friends, there is a sleep duo here on the couch. Well, one-half of the duo is on the couch; the other is standing on the floor next to her Daddy, and she is asleep!

Only Cold Stone Can Complete the Birthday

2008-10-17T20:50:00.007-04:00

Okay: better late than never. The nice thing in posting about Mary's birthday a bit late is that I am able to include photos. First of all, a belated Happy Birthday to my wonderful wife! Really, the birthday week wasn't over until we made it today to Cold Stone (sweet cream with heath bar--oh, yeah, baby!). Now, it's complete. We had a great time celebrating Mary's life and all things connected to her--particularly Madge and Pita. Fortunately, my sister, Miriam, was in town to celebrate with us. Madge enjoyed spending time with her cousins, Zelie, Eli, and Jacob. (We probably visited half a dozen parks!) On the birthday morn, we made it out to the National Zoo. In the evening, we had Mary's famous lasagna. I think that Madge enjoyed the birthday cake more than Mary. She had been singing "Happy Birthday" to Mares for the previous few weeks...quite a great preparation. Happy Birthday, Mares. By the year you are growing older...and more beautiful!

Happy Birthday, Mommie!

Life

2008-10-17T09:04:00.003-04:00

A few days ago Maddy and Pita and I joined a friend and her little boy down in the city where we prayed outside Planned Parenthood with Fr. Pavone of Priests for Life and David Bereit of 40 Days for Life. It was a blessing to be there. God supplied us with a parking spot right in the middle of the day. That is a feat in itself, considering DC traffic, possible tickets, and limited parking. We arrived and joined in on the Rosary. Fr. Frank prayed, and then David spoke words of encouragement, thankfulness, and perseverance. He had been in 38 cities within the last 21 days. A true missionary for life he is. The hustle of the city ran about us; people scurried before us; prayers were calm and constant as we stood before Planned Parenthood a place of death and lies. Maddy and her little friend prayed too, and how could anyone deny the beauty and innocence of a child? David and Fr. Pavone made some very good points, some of which were: how important it is to pray before an abortion clinic where, at the end of the day, we can say that by our presence, the consciences of the doctors, nurses and staff within were probed; and, no child died alone for we were with them in prayer. To see our picture with other 40 Days for Life participants, visit: http://40daysforlife.com/blog/?p=154.

Happy 1/4 Birthday, Sweet Pita!

2008-10-01T12:48:00.004-04:00

Today, October 1, you are 3 months old. What laughter and joy you have blessed us with in three month's time on this earth. Your life is beautiful. Thanks be to the baby Jesus of Bethlehem for such a sweet blessing. Our Lady of Guadalupe, thank you for holding Pita in your gentle arms.

Charlie Brown Sightings

2008-10-01T12:41:00.003-04:00

The other day, Caleb's Grandma, Nana, sent Maddy and Pita a package of goodies. And, inside the package there was a special gift for Madge: a Charlie Brown doll. Madge was taking him all over. He was like another member of the family. He was being trained like one too, when, Maddy called me into the bathroom to tell me that Charlie was using the toilet. This is what I found:

(Is this how he got his name?)

Later, she had kindly buckled him into the bouncette so that he could just chill, cautiously.

Great Article on the Catholism and (Homo)Sexuality

2008-09-29T10:56:00.003-04:00

I recently came across this transcript from a speech by the Bishop of Sacramento to the National Association of Diocesan Gay and Lesbian Ministries. Read it if you can spare a few minutes.

I particularly like his line that sex is not love but rather an expression of love. A great article on a touchy topic.

Thanks, Nana!

2008-09-27T15:16:00.003-04:00

Thank you, Nana, for our little gifts in the mail. It was such a treat to open the big, white package that you sent for us. How blessed we are to have such a loving and considerate Nana in our lives.
Much love,
Madge and Pita

Fashion Designer in the Making?

2008-09-25T09:46:00.004-04:00

Madge really enjoys her magnetic dressing doll from Nana. This is what she put on her the other day. When you are lacking in proper hat ware, know that an upside down scarf will suffice. Be chic and switch up your shoes.

Sisters

2008-09-25T09:41:00.002-04:00

...sharing a wardrobe.

Weekend Continued

2008-09-24T12:26:00.004-04:00

After Mt. Vernon we enjoyed a quiet afternoon. Maddy, Caleb and Pita had some fun playing on the bed after a nap. Caleb called me into the room to show me Maddy's little silhouette idea: she wanted Pita and herself to sit back-to-back. After dinner, we enjoyed a little of The Bee, lent to us by a friend, and then sleep for girls. While Caleb put Madge down, I was able to get some little treats made for us: banana pancakes. Where is JJ when we need him? Sunday was just as enjoyable with early morning "Coppees" and morning Mass. Madge fell asleep during Mass, so no afternoon nap was needed before we headed to a Mexican bakery for a few pastries to take to the park. After that we arrived home to grab a bite to eat before hearing a Jazz band play Swing. It was so awesome to listen to such a talented band, and wonderful songs like "In the Mood" and "Chatanooga Choo-Choo" as well as "Misty." Were you sending down the songs from Heaven, Gram Dolan, and, Grandpa Mahler? You sure were on our minds that day, and your dancing soul, Gram, was in Maddy's little toes. She was bobbing up and down listening to those beats. After a beautiful day out, we enjoyed an evening at home and topped the night off with the making of funnel cakes.

A Mt. Vernon Saturday

2008-09-24T12:15:00.002-04:00

We enjoyed a beautiful weekend together, which started by a trip to Mt. Vernon, located about 20 minutes from us. It was a crisp, sunny Saturday, perfect for a walk along the vast grounds of Mt. Vernon. We sat at the back of the big house and looked out in the distance to the beautiful Potomac as Maddy talked about birthday cake, and continually wished me happy birthday...a few weeks away. Thanks, Madge.

I can't think of a witty title for this entry...

2008-09-21T08:56:00.002-04:00

A sweet and slightly sacrilegious moment. Family allergies have been up for Madge, Pita, and me with the onset of fall temperatures. So, last night we were saying the rosary. We told Madge to go and blow her nose. After wiping her own nose, Madge went over to wipe the nose of our little Blessed Mother statue (which is about 10 in tall). I didn't realize that the Blessed Mother must have had a runny nose as well. Pretty cute. Do I hear psychologists thinking "transference"?

I Can Say, Hi!"

2008-09-18T14:56:00.003-04:00

Just listen!

Beautiful Girl

2008-09-16T23:35:00.004-04:00

Although these are just a "few" of the many pictures there are of Pita from her couple of months in this world, here they are. There are more to come!

How Grateful I Am

2008-09-16T20:39:00.009-04:00

I don't think I have said this enough: You are amazing. I look over all that you do for our family, and I love you. I look at you, and I love you. You clean, you cook, you care for your girls (me included) not just because that needs to be done, but because you love them; you love us. You want to be a better dad and husband, and you take concrete steps to achieve that end. How grateful I am to have you.I love your little ways. When you dress Madge you don't just pick out any old thing, you put an adorable and sometimes eclectic outfit together for her, and I love it. When you do anything, you do it with all that you have. You make the little things silly and fun. "Siddy, Dad!" as Madge would say. You are my knight. I was recently looking over the scrapbook of our dating days and engagement months and re-read words that you continue to say to me on a daily basis. That is just you. You are constant in what you do, and I thank you for that. Thank you for: supporting me in my life's dream-job of being our girls' mom, for being my awesome coach and dear love when I was so blessed to experience the laboring of our girlies into this world with God's grace. I remember looking into your eyes during labor and seeing so much hope , encouragement, and happiness in your eyes. I thanked God in those moments for the gift of marriage, for the gift of a true friend, my sweet spouse. Thank you for loving me. You are not only beautiful on the outside, but you are so much more inside. Yes, sometimes I do think you are too good to be true. God has truly blessed me. I don't understand God's wisdom...or humor, but thank you for being my life partner. You are so sweet, gentle and creative. You are also the first to admit your faults, and how humbling that is for me. Keep teaching me. I'm learning. Your love for me is endless and so are the sweet ways you show it. I remember your telling me that you loved me early on in our relationship and at that moment I felt God's love through you. I know your are His instrument of grace to me. You help me to change and grow in order to get closer to the One we both long to be closest to. You are beautiful. We miss you, and we cannot wait until you are home. There are 6 arms just waiting to hug you.

Four Years

2008-09-15T09:04:00.006-04:00

Caleb, Four years later, and it seems like yesterday that we were ascending the stairs of the bell tower at The National Shrine. It was a day that would change our lives forever. I remember leaving school that day after a long day of teaching and being so happy that no cars had blocked me in at the school parking lot so that I was on-time to meet you at the Shrine for our four o'clock (or so) appointment to check out the bell tower. Little did I know you had so much more planned than just a "look" at the Tower. How well you planned that afternoon, which you specifically marked on the calendar, so as to have our engagement day be on the special feast of Our Lady of Sorrows and Grandpa Young's anniversary into eternal life. I was amazed at the other planning you had done in asking John to play photographer on the roof of Gibbons Hall from which he captured the first moments of our engagement. I remember looking out over the city of DC and CUA, and then turning back around to find you on one knee, holding my hand and speaking so gently. Your words were beautiful and unforgettable. I love you and thank you for sharing your life with me, and now with our two girls. I cannot, for a moment, imagine life without you, journeying at my side. You are my dearest and best friend, and I look forward to every day with you, walking hand-in-hand on our way home to heaven, together.Here's for you
(Photo credit: Thanks, John, for helping us with these photographic memories.)

Beautiful Boy

2008-09-14T00:08:00.004-04:00

Today (September 14, Australian time) is Nick's 4th birthday-FOURTH! Four years have passed, little man, and I can tell you the exact spot where I was when your Mom called me to say that you just entered the world. I can specifically remember sitting down to my computer the minutes after Mommy told me that she and Daddy were having you, and writing a whole letter to you, and then going to my classes and being on top of the world. I wanted to shout the news I had just learned. Fast forward 4 years and you have grown, grown not only in physical strength and attributes, but also in my, our hearts. We love you dearly, and you have felt like my very own baby since the moment I knew you were in existence. May you always leave a wholesome mark wherever God may have you trod, and may you always know just how much you are loved, today, tomorrow, and always. Happy birthday, beautiful boy!

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

2008-09-11T21:17:00.003-04:00

Sometimes there is no need to use words when getting a point across-- like this perfect and beautiful babe.

Let Us Not Forget Why We Shall Cast A Life-Changing Ballot in November

2008-09-10T20:35:00.002-04:00

May God and our conscience be our guides.

In The Blog World

2008-09-09T22:29:00.005-04:00

...things move fast. Yesterday I was reading Elizabeth Foss's blog in which she wrote this about a certain couple:
"I am reading ... . the blog of Stephanie Nielsen, a young mom in Arizona. The blog is just beautiful--full of life and love and utter joy in family. Stephanie has four young children and her love for them glows through every post. She clearly adores her husband and isn't shy about telling the world so. Last month, she and her husband were critically injured in a private plane accident. While they fight for their lives in Arizona, Stephanie's sister Courtney--who just had her first baby--has taken the children into her own home in Utah, where she, her husband, and the rest of Stephanie's siblings are loving them and heroically holding onto Stephanie's vision of family life. Courtney is blogging her experiences. I have found such inspiration between the two of them, and more than enough fodder for prayer."

After reading that (above), I was led to this. Tonight I went back there and was led to this. I was attracted to this couple for a simple reason: they are so in love with one another. Together they have created a little family of 4 kids. Together, Christian and Stephanie are fighting for their lives. Please pray for them. You can read more about their tragic experience here.
If you want to see more about this dynamic woman and her family, go to www.todayshow.com and look through videos (September 9) for the one titled "Injured Blogger Inspires Support."
Stephanie absolutely loves being a mom and making life beautiful and of the moment. I love seeing other moms cherish the sweet gifts they have been given and enjoy the precious moments that they, that we all get as moms. So often there are complaints about the kids or how hard a day was. Every job has its ups and downs, but there is no job in which you are constantly repaid in LOVE. Thank you, God, for this sweet job. I'm glad I don't ever have to retire.

Every time I read something about one person and then see the outpour of love and support from thousands (in this case, thousands--or more-- across the world, it makes me realize all the more just what one life does. Just doing one's daily duties and loving every moment of them, not because they are flashy, but because God's will is bigger than our own and He has a plan and purpose for the littlest, most mundane things (in the world's eyes) in every day life. In relation to just that, here is a good read.

Please pray for this family

2008-09-09T22:03:00.002-04:00

Please keep this family in your prayers.The grandpa (father-in-law to the blogger) suddenly died yesterday (September 8th) while trying to save his 20 year-old son from drowning, but gave up his life in the process. The funeral is at a parish near us.

Fireproof

2008-09-09T21:56:00.002-04:00

This looks like a fantastic view.

Happy to you!

2008-09-08T21:53:00.002-04:00

Happy birthday, Blessed Mama! Or as Maddy would say, "Happy to you! Happy cake!"
Thank you for your constant love and direction. We're so glad your Mom said "Yes" to your sweet life.

Happy Grandparents' Day!

2008-09-08T21:44:00.003-04:00

Dear Mimi and Pa-Pa & Meema and Beeba,
Happy Grandparents' Day! We love you so much and are happy to have such loving grandparents in our young lives. We hope that you always know how much joy you give us and how much we appreciate your love, attention, and activity in our little lives. Although we are small, we feel every bit of your love. Thanks for giving it.
Lots of hugs from your girlies,
Maddy and Pita

Her first broken bone

2008-09-08T10:38:00.004-04:00

About 2 weeks ago, Madge fell out of bed in the middle of the night, and it wasn't until later-- after a night of intermittent crying--that morning, about 8am when we awoke, that we realized something wasn't right. Whenever Pita is awake, Madge is there. Not this time, though. She was as still as could be on the pillow and didn't budge to run down the hall for her morning "sake" (protein shake). Long story short, after a trip to the dr. then the ER for x-rays that morning, we were made certain that she broke her collar bone on her right side--her dominant side. Maybe it won't be the only "hard working" side she'll have when it gets better (4 weeks in a wrap/sling), because she has been doing EVERYTHING with her little left hand (maybe ambidextrous after it all?). She is perseverant about doing it all, with some moments of "Help, please," and it is awesome to see her persistence. After 2 weeks like this, this is reality for her, and she goes on with her days as though nothing is wrong, until she bangs into the ground because of not having the balance to catch herself as quickly as she could if both arms were in reach to break her fall. She's had quite a few falls since her initial one that started her imbalance, but it really hasn't slowed her down; only the ground that keeps getting in the way.

No sane-chew. I got it.

2008-09-07T22:15:00.002-04:00

A couple of nights ago, there was a little lady in the laundry room/pantry-- a very small spot to say the least. Caleb was asking Maddy if there was something that she needed and if he could help her. The space is so small you may wonder why someone is squeezing in there. So, Caleb asked Maddy: "Can I help you?" She confidently and politely responded, "No sane-chew. I got it." Wow! She was taking care of "it" all right. Madge didn't need help because t his is what she was (or thought she was) getting.

Novena Before The Election

2008-09-04T01:43:00.003-04:00

It's a less than nine weeks until Election Day. Thanks to this blog for this novena.

O God, we acknowledge you today as Lord,
Not only of individuals, but of nations and governments.

We thank you for the privilege
Of being able to organize ourselves politically
And of knowing that political loyalty
Does not have to mean disloyalty to you.

We thank you for your law,
Which our Founding Fathers acknowledged
And recognized as higher than any human law.

We thank you for the opportunity that this election year puts before us,
To exercise our solemn duty not only to vote,
But to influence countless others to vote,
And to vote correctly.

Lord, we pray that your people may be awakened.
Let them realize that while politics is not their salvation,
Their response to you requires that they be politically active.

Awaken your people to know that they are not called to be a sect fleeing the world
But rather a community of faith renewing the world.

Awaken them that the same hands lifted up to you in prayer
Are the hands that pull the lever in the voting booth;
That the same eyes that read your Word
Are the eyes that read the names on the ballot,
And that they do not cease to be Christians
When they enter the voting booth.

Awaken your people to a commitment to justice
To the sanctity of marriage and the family,
To the dignity of each individual human life,
And to the truth that human rights begin when human lives begin,
And not one moment later.

Lord, we rejoice today
That we are citizens of your kingdom.

May that make us all the more committed
To being faithful citizens on earth.

We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Happy 2 Months, Beautiful Girl!

2008-09-03T13:05:00.008-04:00

Pita, you are 2 months old (July 1-Sept.1), and you are our sweet little gem. You have brought us so much joy and made me stop and think, "What was our life like before you?" Thank you for your smiles and squeaks. They are art pieces and music in our home. As one nurse told me during your blood work one day, "She is going to do great things." We agree, and you know what? You already have.

Just one month ago you were born, born into eternal life with the sacrament of Baptism. What a beautiful celebration it was in the evening of August 1st. On this evening, Friday evening, we attended 6:30pm Mass at St. Sebastian parish in Michigan, and your Aunty Mimi and Beeba played guitar and sang. Aunty Mimi played and sang solo, "I Could Sing of Your Love Forever," as I requested shortly before Mass. She did a super job. Deacon Charles baptized you, and he did such a wonderful job during his homily in explaining the sacrament and the responsibility we have as parents and the duty and call of this sacrament to your spiritual parents, Uncle Dan and Aunty Miriam. The whole evening was beautiful and simple, just like you, sweet girl. Although so many of your family members could not attend and come in from all over the globe, they were praying for you and we know will continue to as you go forth in this world with a shining light. Speaking of "shining lights," when Deacon Charles gave your baptismal candle to us and stated that the candle is a symbol of your faith, Madge saw the light and thought she had a particular duty: the duty to blow it out! That she did! What a silly sister you have, methodical no doubt, though. She loves you so much. On your baptismal day, you wore the dress that Maddy wore on her baptismal day, August 5, 2006. The gown was made especially for our family when Daddy, Mommy, and Maddy (then, in Mommy's tummy) were living in Beijing, China. Mommy and Daddy chose the material and lace, and a Chinese seamstress fashioned it simply in a few days' time. It came out just as we desired: beautiful and simple. May those two characteristics always be descriptions of your faith in Jesus, who loves you dearly and says, "Now you are mine twice: First I made you; then I bought you back!"(Chosen and Cherished, p.11). Following your baptism, we returned to Meema and Beeba's house where we celebrated with ice cream sundaes and banana splits. A dear friend, Mickey, sang a very special song for you too.

Isaiah 43: 1-4, 6-7
But now, this is what the LORD says—
he who created you, O Jacob,
he who formed you, O Israel:
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.

2 When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze.

3 For I am the LORD, your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior;
I give Egypt for your ransom,
Cush ^[a] and Seba in your stead.

4 Since you are precious and honored in my sight,
and because I love you,
I will give men in exchange for you,
and people in exchange for your life.

5-7"So don't be afraid: I'm with you.
I'll round up all your scattered children,
pull them in from east and west.
I'll send orders north and south:
'Send them back.
Return my sons from distant lands,
my daughters from faraway places.
I want them back, every last one who bears my name,
every man, woman, and child
Whom I created for my glory,
yes, personally formed and made each one."

Happy 30th!

2008-09-03T12:36:00.003-04:00

"Today" (Australian time: September 4th) is my sister Kate's 30th birthday. I can't hardly believe the big 30 is here. We really can start playing the "Golden Years." Kate, we love you. Thanks, (Mom and Dad) for your life and all the giving that you have done throughout yours. Our prayer is that you will be blessed with God's love and guidance as you journey onwards, with the knowledge that you are loved by Him, and so many family members and friends. God bless this birthday and all of your new year!

Mainstream Medicine Questioning Efficacy of Vaccines...

2008-09-03T07:19:00.004-04:00

A NYTimes article casts serious doubt on the efficacy of the flu vaccine in recipients over the age of 70. While the article is limited in scope (only pertaining to one vaccine and one select group), it minimally demonstrates that mainstream public health experts are NOT unanimously in favor of vaccines and that, if anything, they should be used judiciously on an ad hoc basis.

Mamie: "Nominal" Reincarnation

2008-08-12T19:28:00.002-04:00

A name is a curious thing. Since the day she could identify herself (be it out of limited listening or pronunciation skills), Maddy has called herself "Mamie." Recent genealogical research indicates that Mamie had a great-great-grandma named Mamie Hoepki (1890-1945). The two Mamie's were born only 126 years apart. I hope she's up in heaven having a laugh and keeping the littlest Mamie in her prayers.

Happy Birthday, Mom/Mimi!

2008-07-31T07:38:00.003-04:00

Today is Mimi's birthday. Yay! Happy birthday to you! Thank you for your love, conversations, and openness. We love you and thank God for your life. May St. Ignatius of Loyola watch over you and continue to bless you each and every year, and may you always know the love of God and all those you are so thankful to have you in their lives.We love you, Mom.

Humanism as the Highest Form of Inhumanity

2008-07-30T07:58:00.002-04:00

I came across this great excerpt today. Real food for thought:

"[H]umanistic culture, insofar as it functions as an ideology and therefore as a religion, consists essentially in being unaware of three things: firstly, of what God is, because it does not grant primacy to Him; secondly, of what man is, because it puts him in the place of God; thirdly, of what the meaning of life is, because this culture limits itself to playing with evanescent things and to plunging into them with criminal unconscious. In a word, there is nothing more inhuman than humanism, by the fact that it, so to speak, decapitates man: wishing to make of him an animal which is perfect, it succeeds in turning him into a perfect animal; not all at once... but in the long run, since it inevitably ends by “re-barbarizing” society, while “dehumanizing” it ipso facto in depth." --F. Schuon

Awake..no, asleep...no, awake!

2008-07-29T19:57:00.003-04:00

Today, Pita is 4-weeks old. What a life.

And there were three

2008-07-28T20:29:00.002-04:00

...generations.
Our little circle of life: Mary's, Mimi's, and Pita's hands together.

Please Join Us

2008-07-27T14:42:00.003-04:00

Please join us in this novena to Our Lady of Guadalupe in the remaining days leading up to Pita's Baptism, Friday, August 1, 2008.

"Am I not here, who am your Mother?"

First Day

Dearest Lady of Guadalupe, fruitful Mother of holiness, teach me your ways of gentleness and strength. Hear my humble prayer offered with heartfelt confidence to beg this favor......
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory.

Second Day

O Mary, conceived without sin, I come to your throne of grace to share the fervent devotion of your faithful Mexican children who call to you under the glorious Aztec title of Guadalupe. Obtain for me a lively faith to do your Son’s holy will always: May His will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory.

Third Day
O Mary, whose Immaculate Heart was pierced by seven swords of grief, help me to walk valiantly amid the sharp thorns strewn across my pathway. Obtain for me the strength to be a true imitator of you. This I ask you, my dear Mother.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory.

Fourth Day
Dearest Mother of Guadalupe, I beg you for a fortified will to imitate your divine Son’s charity, to always seek the good of others in need. Grant me this, I humbly ask of you.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory.

Fifth Day
O most holy Mother, I beg you to obtain for me pardon of all my sins, abundant graces to serve your Son more faithfully from now on, and lastly, the grace to praise Him with you forever in heaven.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory.

Sixth Day
Mary, Mother of vocations, multiply priestly vocations and fill the earth with religious houses which will be light and warmth for the world, safety in stormy nights. Beg your Son to send us many priests and religious. This we ask of you, O Mother.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory.

Seventh Day
O Lady of Guadalupe, we beg you that parents live a holy life and educate their children in a Christian manner; that children obey and follow the directions of their parents; that all members of the family pray and worship together. This we ask of you, O Mother.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory.

Eighth Day
With my heart full of the most sincere veneration, I prostrate myself before you, O Mother, to ask you to obtain for me the grace to fulfill the duties of my state in life with faithfulness and constancy.
Our father, Hail Mary, Glory.

Ninth Day
O God, You have been pleased to bestow upon us unceasing favors by having placed us under the special protection of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary. Grant us, your humble servants, who rejoice in honoring her today upon earth, the happiness of seeing her face to face in heaven.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory.

Happy Feast Day, Madge!

2008-07-22T20:27:00.002-04:00

Today is Maddy's patron saint's feast day. July 22 is the feast day of St. Mary Magdalene. Please keep Maddy in your prayers that she may always do God's will. St. Mary Magdalene, pray for us that we too may be worthy of the promises of Christ.
Prayer to St. Mary Magdalene
St. Mary Magdalene, woman of many sins, who by conversion became the beloved of Jesus, thank you for your witness that Jesus forgives through the miracle of love.
You, who already possess eternal happiness in His glorious presence, please intercede for me, so that someday I may share in the same everlasting joy. Amen.

Mimi (Grandma Mahler) is in town!

2008-07-19T13:12:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday, Madge!

2008-07-17T07:41:00.005-04:00

Today my little girl turns two. It's incredible. One day she's a wee, swaddled babe lying my in my arms; the next, she's running through our home and jumping up on me. Happy Birthday, Madeleine!

One of the positive externalities of a newborn on siblings is special time with dad. I can say that my two weeks of paternity leave presented a great opportunity to bond with Madge. We did everything together and I enjoyed every minute of it. My favorite Madge memory took place the night of July 2. For as long as I can remember, whenever Maddy would wake up in the middle of the night, she would instinctively call for "mom". (In my defense, I suppose moms can typically provide something dads can't.) Anyhow, since Mary was still at the hospital that night, I was at home alone with Maddy. Madge woke up and started calling for me. "Daddy!" Tears welled up as I rocked my little girl back to sleep.

I'm now the proud dad to both Madge and Pita. I look forward to many experiences (and subsequently, forging memories) with Pita. Right now, however, I want to celebrate and recognize Maddy's two years of life, along with the joy and love that she has brought to us. Thank you, God, for the gift of Madge. I hope that we can be the best parents possible for her. Maddy, we love you. Happy Birthday.

Can you ever kiss a baby too much?

2008-07-11T17:08:00.003-04:00

3 Years

2008-07-10T22:56:00.004-04:00

Three years and two little girls later, we celebrate the anniversary of our wedding day. On July 2nd, 2008 we celebrated our third wedding anniversary. It was a very different anniversary than any before, as this one was spent in a hospital room. Neither one of us could have been more ecstatic to be celebrating there, since such a hospital stay was due to Pita's birth. God is good. Caleb had stayed the night following Pita's afternoon birth--July 1st-- with Maddy at our house and then drove out to the hospital the next day. He walked through the door with Madge, a beautiful bouquet of fresh flowers, and our wicker picnic basket filled with nice treats. What a beautiful surprise!Thank you, Caleb, for making our anniversary so special and creative, considering our circumstances. Thank you for three years of good times. I love you and look forward to so many years ahead.

Our Nuptial Blessing:
May God bless you, hold and keep you. May God's mercy shine on you. Guide your work and guard your resting. Make your love forever new.
May God join your hopeful spirits. Fill your hearts with truth and courage. Trust to share both joy and tears. Teach love to your children's children. Make your household learn to witness living faith through all your years.
May God bless you, hold and keep you. May God's mercy shine on you. Guide your work and guard your resting. Make your love forever new.
May God make your home a refuge where you warmly welcome strangers, and the lowly find a place. Make your caring kind and patient, help you meet the needs of neighbors. Finding Christ in every face.
May God bless you, hold and keep you. May God's mercy shine on you. Guide your work and guard your resting. Make your love forever new.

Our Wedding Song: Nada Valgo Sin Tu Amor by Juanes
Translated in English: I Am Nothing Without Your Love
English Translation (below):
As we weather while the time passes us by, it begins to appear that in the end our hurt outweighs the years.
And so I desire to spend my years together with you, my eternal love, together with my family, together with my friends...
I am worth nothing, I have nothing, if I don't have the best: your love and companionship in my heart.
Better a year late than a decade without you. It's worth it to finally have my heart replete.
Hence I always want to be conscious of your steadfast love, be we near or far from the end.
I am worth nothing, I have nothing, if I don't have the best: your love and companionship in my heart.
Come, my love...
I feel weak when I am without you, and I become strong when you are here. Without you I don't know what it's like to live. My life is a tunnel without light. I want to spend more time with you, take back the moments I have lost, and conquer the immense fear of death so as to experience eternity with you.
I am worth nothing, I have nothing, if I don't have the best: your love and companionship in my heart.
Hence I always want to be conscious of your steadfast love, be we near or far from the end.
I am worth nothing, I have nothing, if I don't have the best: your love and companionship in my heart.
~Poetic translation by CO

Welcome, Beautiful Girl. We've Been Anxious to Meet You.

2008-07-10T22:48:00.006-04:00

On July 1st, 2008 at 1:55pm, EDT, our beautiful second daughter was born. Our lives have been forever changed by Guadalupe "Pita" Belen Maria. Named after Our Lady of Guadalupe, you will be called "Pita" which means "little Guadalupe" (Guadalupita) in Spanish; a common custom in Mexico to shorten the name. Your second name is also Spanish, and translated in English it stands for Bethlehem. May the Christ child who blesses the little town of Bethlehem always reside in your heart and create a spirit of poverty in you always. Your third name is a form of Mary. Your sister began the tradition when we gave her her third name of Mary. Now both of you have Mary or some form of Mary as part of your middle names. Our Blessed Mother will always be near you. We love you, sweet girl. You have blessed our lives in so many ways and made your big sister Maddy such a happy sibling. As you can tell from all of her hugs, kisses, and chit-chat to you, she thinks you are heaven-sent. You bring us joy, so much joy. God has blessed us with your existence, and we did nothing to deserve you. Your life humbles us and makes us turn to God in awe for His merciful goodness and kindness. May Jesus guide you on your life journey. May Our Lady of Guadalupe wrap a tilma of purity and love around you. May you always know the love of Daddy and Mommy and your sister Madeleine. We love you dearly. We give you thanks, Almighty God, for these and all of your benefits. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
It's hard to believe that only a couple of weeks ago, I was sitting with you beneath my heart, as I listened to this song, and could only think of you.
Here's to you, Sweets.

We love you and miss you...

2008-06-26T10:11:00.002-04:00

January 16, 1923-June 26, 2007
Please pray for us, Gram, as we continue to pray for you and to you. Eternal rest grant unto Gram's soul, O Lord, and let the perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul and all the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

Unless you become like little children...

2008-06-24T09:11:00.003-04:00

On Saturday morning Caleb was making breakfast with Maddy, and when I came out breakfast was nearly finished and ready to eat. We have a crucifix right next to the front door, and Maddy, ready to go for breakfast, was kneeling before it to say prayers and then eat. This is what we saw when we walked around the corner. And I thought I was teaching her something? What sweet and innocent souls.

CDC Claims Recommended Vaccine Schedule "Flexible"

2008-06-20T07:20:00.003-04:00

An article today from CNN may show a seismic shift in public health and perception. I don't anticipate any mainstream media outlet advocating a full-blown anti-vaccine position in the near future. However, the fact that the article is encouraging parents to (1) think for themselves, (2) advocate for their children, and (3) advocate for flexibility in the vaccine schedule is a huge step in the right direction. These are qualities in all good parents despite one's opinion on vaccines. A small hurrah.

Our Little Beauty Queen

2008-06-19T20:45:00.002-04:00

Sweet Girl

2008-06-18T15:28:00.003-04:00

This morning Madge was awake at 4am and hungry for toast. Just before she ate, we were saying prayers before she ate her early breakfast, and although it was a little dark in the room and the stillness of the night seemed to still be upon us, she went and knelt down in front of the crucifix to tell Jesus "thanks" for her tasty toast. You are our sweet girl. We love you and all of your little ways, Madge.

Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-14T21:55:00.004-04:00

Today we wish you, Caleb, a Happy Father's Day. Madge and OLF are truly blessed to have you, a Dad that takes such an active role in his little ones' lives. I am blessed to have such a good spouse and role model as a co-pilot on this incredible parental journey. Thank you for all that you do for us: your hard work here and at the office, all of your daily sacrifices for us and for others. You teach me on a daily basis how to do better.

Happy Father's Day to our Dads. We love you both and thank God for your yeses on so many levels. We also thank God for the lives of our Grandpas,those now deceased and Grandpa D. living and well. Without your lives, we would not be able to give thanks for our blessings today.

Priceless

2008-05-28T23:54:00.001-04:00

Think no further, look no further. If you have doubts as to who to vote into the Oval Office, this should make your choice crystal clear.

Good reads

2008-05-28T08:33:00.003-04:00

In relation to parenting, obedience, and true love, this article offers exceptional clarifications.
Another article worth browsing (also by the same author), is this.

Saturday Zoo Time, 2008

2008-05-03T23:19:00.005-04:00

Our Friday Together

2008-05-03T23:03:00.009-04:00

We had a super day on Friday. The weather was beautiful. We played outside together at the playgrounds--2 of them! We got a game of tennis in with the sun beaming above us and the temperature pushing the 80s. And after a lot of exercise outdoors, we enjoyed a picnic lunch. Amidst it all, we got to capture a few special times.

31-Cent Scoop Night was a Hit!

2008-05-01T20:54:00.003-04:00

A Tired Girl

2008-05-01T20:51:00.003-04:00

The other day Maddy had had a full morning and by lunch time was ready to hit the pillow, even though her head wasn't quite there yet. She was snoozing while still seated at her highchair.

31-cent Scoop Night!

2008-04-29T21:27:00.002-04:00

Don't miss out on your Baskin Robbins treat night tomorrow, April 30th, 2008! Thanks, Miriam, for keeping us in the loop. I remember last year at this time in Hawaii when Caleb, Madge, and I headed out to Baskin Robbins for this deal. Unfortunately we didn't make it all the way there, but we plan to this year. Well, not to Hawaii... a bit more local.

New Items for Madeleine's Hope Chest

2008-04-29T21:21:00.003-04:00

This is something that I have been wanting to add to Maddy's chest for a while. What a creative little night light! I think she might like this little item too, especially when she wants to switch from her ice water to lattes.

Happy 30th Anniversary!

2008-04-29T07:51:00.004-04:00

Today is Meema and Beeba's 3oth wedding anniversary! Happy Anniversary! We love you and thank God for your marriage and all of the fruits of your labors. May God continue to bless, guide, and sustain you in your journey together.

Important Things to Sing and Say

2008-04-22T13:31:00.004-04:00

This was from Friday after Maddy got into her new dress. She was saying something or singing something. Watch her head movements as she climbs down. She keeps saying "baby" when she climbs down, and looks at her dress. She says that she has a baby in her tummy, since Mommy has one too. :)

Happy Birthday, Beeba!

2008-04-22T13:09:00.002-04:00

Today, April 22, is Beeba's/Grandpa Tiej's/Papa Tiej's birthday! Happy birthday to you! We wish we could be there to celebrate with you and at least back your presents into the driveway, but we will wait to do that Thursday night. (No, we don't get a commission for this, nor are we raking anyone over the coals.) What other Tiejisms come to mind? Hmm...
We love you so much and are so grateful to God for your life, for the father and grandfather you are, and for the sacrificial spouse you continue to be. It only seems fitting to use your words when writing about you, and they are that we are "...all the richer for knowing you." May Jesus bless you and your day and may you always know how much joy and love you bring to others, far and near. We sing this for you today.

All our love,
Caleb, Mary, Madge, and Little OLF #2

Some Food for Thought: What are the real issues at hand?

2008-04-21T19:37:00.002-04:00

As we near the election and voters continue to worry about various issues, this article helps point out the most important issue to be concerned about.

Catchy Song, Nice Harmony

2008-04-18T10:33:00.004-04:00

Recently a movie, Once, was recommended to us, and there are some nice tunes in it. This is one of them.
Beware that there is a lot of swearing in the movie. TV guardian is nice to have for this one.

Here are the lyrics as well:
Glen Hansard - Falling Slowly Lyrics

I don't know you
But I want you
All the more for that
Words fall through me
And always fool me
And I can't react
And games that never amount
To more than they're meant
Will play themselves out

Take this sinking boat and point it home
We've still got time
Raise your hopeful voice you have a choice
You've made it now

Falling slowly, eyes that know me
And I can't go back
Moods that take me and erase me
And I'm painted black
You have suffered enough
And warred with yourself
It's time that you won

Take this sinking boat and point it home
We've still got time
Raise your hopeful voice you had a choice
You've made it now

Take this sinking boat and point it home
We've still got time
Raise your hopeful voice you had a choice
You've made it now
Falling slowly sing your melody
I'll sing along

Happy Birthday, Matt!

2008-04-17T20:37:00.004-04:00

Today, in the U.S., is our brother-in-law Matt's 30th birthday! Happy birthday, Matt! We hope that you had a wonderful celebration of your life in Australia, and we pray that God will continue to bless you and protect you every day of your new year and throughout your life. It is amazing to think how our lives have been altered by your life and your entrance into our family. We love you and value your life. May St. Michael the Archangel, patron of policemen, protect and guide you always.

Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray; and do Thou, O Prince of the Heavenly Host - by the Divine Power of God - cast into hell, satan and all the evil spirits, who roam throughout the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.

Maddy Watches Pope Benedict XVI Arrive at RFK Stadium

2008-04-17T14:34:00.003-04:00

This morning Maddy was watching the Holy Father arrive here in DC, and here she is waving at him...on TV.

An Amazing Day

2008-04-17T14:15:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, April 16th, was an amazing day. It was Gram Dolan's birthday. She would have been 87. It was the Holy Father's 81st birthday. It was a beautiful spring day, spent at CUA, awaiting Pope Benedict XVI's arrival. We were among the throngs of people waiting to greet him, and it was incredible. We took the Metro down, and although Madge had only gotten about 30-40 minutes of sleep during nap time before we had to jump in the car and head to the station, she was a happy girl for a long evening, spent playing, cheering, soaking up such special moments in the presence of Christ's vicar.

New Study: Single parents cost taxpayers $112 billion

2008-04-15T11:59:00.002-04:00

The first of its type, this study provides economic modeling of the burden family break-ups and children-born-out-of-wedlock pose to taxpayers. $112 billion dollars a year. Wow. CNN offers its typical detractions: marriage outreach won't change anything. Money speaks, however. We shouldn't neglect to provide the proper compassion and care to these needy, broken families. Yet, we can point to the traditional family as a way of not only preserving the moral fabric of society but also as a way of allocating federal dollars effectively.

Scripture Applied to Family Life

2008-04-15T07:14:00.002-04:00

A recent CE article offers two inspiring scripture quotes applied to family life. In summary, families shouldn't be sprinting through life, but, ever attentive to God's grace, they should plug away with focus, strategy, and perseverance to accomplish God's plan. A neat practical application for our day.

Hebrews 12:1-2: "…let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith…"
Zechariah 8:12: "The seed will grow well, the vine will yield its fruit, the ground will produce its crops, and the heavens will drop their dew."