Begin Again.

I'm glad it is Christmas, this was quite possibly the most trying Advent for me in my adult life. Trying does not mean bad, just draining emotionally. I was challenged to change, lost a loved one, and had to deal with a few pedestals I'd put people on.

Change sucks. I'm bad at it, and prefer my old ways, however, once in a while it becomes necessary to examine one's actions. Sometimes in doing so, we realize, we have already changed. Then the difficulty comes in knowing although you are content with the change, others preferred the "old you". What to do, what to do? If I had my way, which I never do, I would force change upon others, but this is not practical. How can the blow be softened to others. First prayer seems to work wonders, secondly, patience. Thirdly, wine. Yep, a little vino goes a long way, for both parties.

Every day is a new chance to begin again, not just projects that go unfinished, but relationships, resolutions, and life. Every day is a clean slate, full of opportunities to do good, have fun and love. Christmas is the greatest ever reminder of this. For generations the people of God turned away from him, but in one moment, because of one child, they ( and we) could begin again.

Merry Christmas!

Paving the Road to Hell

Good intentions run rampant here. Whether it be my desire to write a worthwhile blog, or my volunteering or most importantly raising my kids right. My desire and intentions are good, I promise, but the results, maybe not.

Life has a funny way of sidetracking me. I really wanted to make Advent special here, on the blog, but my 8 hour a week part-time job turned into a 20 hour a week job without me noticing. I have begun to sacrifice things I enjoy, like writing and baking for running around taking kids to lessons. I have given up daily mass, because I have to be at work at the same time. I used to read, now I cram things into my brain as quickly as possible. There is no joy in that.

How do we find peace and solace in the busy-ness and chaos? I truly do not have a solution. My one hour of adoration a week is not cutting it anymore, may prayer the rest of the week is stale, and I know I need life in it, but right now, I do now have it in me to figure out how.

Advent Pages and Traditions

I hope to be able to post as many great sights as I can this year. We have many Advent traditions in our home, and I hope to share a few you.

Here is your first taste. The USCCB has come up with a lovely series of Advent pages, including my first Tradition, the Advent Calendar. Every year my husband painstakingly puts together the Playmobil Advent Calendar. 25 tiny boxes are assembled and filled with items such as microscopic baby hedgehogs, mice and birds. Eventually, these will fill the scene of the year. However, usually, at least one child gets eager, and rips into 20 or so days well before St. Nick's day. I then get the joy of fishing out the microscopic mammals from my vacuum canister. Thank you USCCB for making a Virtual Calendar, one without any clean up required!

The Advent Calendar provides a way for us to count the days, and in tradition, are filled with scripture. Often as the O Antiphon days arrive, the window has the Antiphon of the day in it. No Hedgehogs involved.

Getting Ready for Advent

It does make me laugh a bit to think about preparing for a time of preparing, but such is my nature. Advent with kids does take a few days of preparation. Not only do I have to find all my "Advent Accessories" but the remaining remnants of Halloween (ie that pumpkin on the porch) need to be dealt with. But, it is not just about the "stuff", it is about the mental preparation for the season. It takes me a week of reminding everyone that Advent, like Lent, is a season of prayer and fasting.

When the world around us is throwing Christmas at us before Halloween, we need to step back, and prepare to prepare. Our home is in the world, but not of it. Our preparations for Christmas are not limited to buying gifts, decorating and baking, but preparing our hearts. Sure, baking is part of that, in every cookie we give away, we are giving a bit of us, and for some kids in the house, giving away cookies is a sacrifice.

What are you doing to get ready to prepare the Way of the Lord?

From this priest I know

An Old Friend, Fr. Dennis Paul of St. Isadore's in Bloomingdale, IL.

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY ...October 26, 2009

Outside my window... Wet, soggy leaves, and too many dead plants

I am thinking... I need a day of sunshine!

I am thankful for... A roof over my head, a good husband and 3 beautiful kids.

From the learning rooms... Lots of Young Indiana Jones notes from the WWI study

From the kitchen... A nice steaming hot mug of loose leaf tea

I am wearing... Chesterton Conference T-shirt, even though I didn't make it to the conference

I am creating... A scarf for hubby to scooter in.

I am going... to take dd to ballet, then to buy pants for the ever growing boys.

I am reading... Theology and Sanity, by Frank Sheed

I am hoping... This is a great week

I am hearing... Rain on the windows

Around the house... children are singing

One of my favorite things... Big orange pumpkins on the table, fresh picked by our farmer

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

We pray for their return

I sincerely hope that before the 500th anniversary of the split, the two can be reunited. G. K. Chesterton, we pray for your intercession.

My favorite Doctor

Let nothing disturb you; Let nothing frighten you. All things are passing. God never changes. Patience obtains all things. Nothing is wanting to him who possesses God. God alone suffices. -Teresa of Avila

For her Feast Day I am making triple Chocolate Cake, because she is the only saint I can find on record singing the praises of chocolate, and that is enough of an excuse to make a cake.

In all seriousness, I have come to love her for her strength. She gives me hope, when you read her, you see her flaws, she was not always a perky happy women, even in her life of faith, but she was honest and pious. I can only hope to be both.

Thursdays are for Thankfulness

Some people are always grumbling because roses have thorns; I am thankful that thorns have roses. -Alphonse Karr

I've been thinking, as dangerous as that may be, about the state of the world. In that line of thought I've noticed far too many, myself included, are not thankful. From now until Thanksgiving, I hope to spend Thursdays expressing my thankfulness for everything I can think of. I encourage you to join in via the comments box.

I am thankful to have eyes that can see the trees changing colors, to have ears that hear the birds as they move south for the winter and mouth to praise God for both.

I am thankful to have 3 beautiful children who can drive me nuts, it is a gift to be able to have 3 people enough like me to help me see my flaws.

I am thankful for my husband, who loves me, and has been my best friend for 17 years now, I savor the early days and look forward to the future.

That's just a start, I could go on literally forever. Feel free to jump in!

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY October 12, 2009, from Deb's Daybook

Outside my window... Sad looking Purple Brussel Sprout plants that never bloomed.

I am thinking... It is dark far too early

I am thankful for... a quiet day

From the kitchen... Slow roasted pulled pork , leftover from a family park, and much better the second day.

I am wearing...Dark wash jeans, a batik print shirt, pumpkin colored vegan shoes

I am creating... a bag from a shrunken sweater

I am going...to ballet with a child

I am reading...My planner, trying to fit everything in

I am hoping...that it was a good idea

I am hearing... the tv, much to my dismay

Around the house... are remnants of yesterdays birthday bash

One of my favorite things... the grey skies, filled with red blowing leaves

A few plans for the rest of the week: WWI study, and hopefully a few cool fall hikes

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

Putting it in perspective

This is why I love being Catholic. I do not necessarily agree with him winning, but, the wisdom that comes from the Holy Father makes me at the very least think.

Good Women like Manly Men

So I'll happily take what I've got, a guy who seldom likes to talk, share feeling or read poerty, simply because I know I got him for being natural. Poor hormone drugged up girls, don't even know what they are missing. I'd never trade my guy who can change a tire, chop down a tree and break a sweat for one who is sensitive. Not that mine is insensitive, but he is manly, and that makes me more womanly.

Taking steps backwards, Since 1998

I came across this article via Mark Shea's blog. While I find it respectful of Fr. McBrien to defend the honor of a reporter, he should consider ways to do it without losing his own, not that he had much to begin with.


I spend my pre-dawn Saturday mornings here. Why? Certainly not because I love getting up at 4am! I do it because, in my great selfishness, I need to. I need to grow in love. I need to find a time to forget myself, my desire for sleep, or a shower before work, time to sit in in the glow of my Lord. I do not do it to "bring back the old days" because I wasn't born then! Fr. McBrien's theory that adoration is to bring back the old is silly, in my opinion. I know more young modern people that go to adoration than those his age.



I think we do it because we have to. Not just for ourselves, but for our church that he and his generation, my parents, spent the last 40 years trying "renew", only to throw out everything old without regard for its value. I'm not anti-Vatican II, quite the contrary to be honest, but we cannot disregard the 2000 years of beauty and devotions for a few passing fancies.



I go to adoration every week, happily, proudly and willingly. I do not know how I'd get through the week without it, so for now, I guess I'm walking backwards.

Interesting observation

Today while we were driving home, my daughter made an observation. She noticed the car next to us had a dream catcher, her comment "Hmm, not really the best place for that, is it?" Good point. To all those of you who have dream catchers hanging from your rear-view mirrors, please, refrain from using it while driving!

I already know I am, but thanks for letting me know.

Busy, that is. I really hate people telling me I am. I hate it almost as much as people who say things like "you do everything don't you" or " is there anything you are not involved with?" To answer that, yes, quite a few things, like sports for example.

I am busy, but I am happy and I can almost always make time for friends in need, it is quite rare that I'm unable to. I certainly do not expect anyone to be me, honestly, I could not figure out why they would want to. Therefore, I do not expect other moms to do anymore than they want/feel is necessary. Necessary is a key word here, it sums up my motivation for most things.

Most of what I do I did not decide to do, frankly. I was not forced either, but it became necessary. I teach NFP because there was no one else doing it in my area at the time, and though there are others who might be better at it, I had the knowledge and willingness. I also felt like God was asking me to share what I knew with others to help them get to heaven. The same can be said for 99% of the activities in my life.

I do not know why God has asked me to keep myself so busy, but I do function better that way, and knowing that sacrificing the sheer joy of sitting on my behind helps others sometimes, makes it worth it. So please, if you know me, I'll say I'm busy, just to vent and because it is infinitely easier than explaining everything going on, but do not throw it back at me. I'm easily hurt, and feel guilty that I do many things outside my home that I wouldn't be able to do if I had more kids, or a bigger home or a type B personality, I envy those of you who are able to look around your homes happily and not feel draw to escape, but that is not me, sorry.

Pining

My husband is out of town, no biggie, I know, husbands travel all the time. Mine doesn't though. We have been together for 17 years this fall, if you count our first "date", senior year homecoming. During that time, we haven't been apart for more than 48 hours, even during the 3 months I was in the hospital on pregnancy induced bedrest. I'm pretty much lost without him.

For years, I was a proud feminist, who needs a man, right? Then I met Chris, who I needed more than anything in my life, next to God. He made me realize what being a woman really is, and it didn't involve man hating. He made me stronger, wiser and showed me who I really could be. He brought me back to the faith of my baptism.

I need him to tell my silly ideas, he still seems interested in my rants about well, everything, he is the only one here who ever says they like my cooking. I miss telling him about all the kids antics, due to time differences and busy schedules, we have only been able to share a few short texts. When he is here, I do not need an alarm clock, he wakes me every morning, just before the alarm disturbs my dreams.

I'm sure I sound silly, but the truth is I really love my husband, and miss him so much it hurts. It is only 6 days, but it seems like forever.

Letting them make mistakes

How does a parent let a child make mistakes so they can learn? I'm not talking about the wee ones, but the ones on the precipice of teen years, the ones who need to learn lessons for life. These lessons hurt, and as a parent, it is hard to watch, especially as you are at the point of just realizing that your child is growing up.

Take for example the child who plays an instrument and does not practice. Upon auditioning, they are not given the chair they hoped for, and got a rather critical email from the director. Now part of me wants to say, well, are you surprised? Another part wants to say you tried you're best,even if it seems like a lie, just to make said child feel better. This was a mistake the child made, they were reminded to practice, and didn't, and in turn suffered the consequences. It still hurts to watch.

These are the little life lessons, that as a parent, I hope are taken to heart. It seems like all the tears and chair kicking would be in vain otherwise.

More tales from the X-Files

It's been a while since I've mentioned my youngest Xavier, but he needs mentioning again. My nearly 5 year old started school yesterday. Home school, of course, but it's still school. This has given more fodder for the blog than months of thinking ever could.

Case in point, before the day even began, he was whining, "Why did you make me join this school, now I have to wear pants?" We have a school rule regarding coming to the table with clothes on, he hates this rule. Xai hates pants, he has a rule against them I was informed.

We began phonics, covering the /f/ sound. I asked him if he could think of a few /f/ sound words. Here's how that turned out "um, fffish, um, fffootball, fffork, fffan, and ffffpuppy" "Um, Xai, Puppy doesn't begin with /f/" "Well, (with hands on his hips and eyes rolling) I SAID FFFFPUPPY!! THAT BEGINS WITH FFFFF!!!"

Today was just as entertaining, I was administering placement tests to the older kids, and was asked for a sentence to go with the word after. Xai chimed in, "I've got one, After you drink too much, you pass out" Great, which college kid taught him that, because it certainly wasn't his parents, I must talk to his best friend's 22 year old sister!

His sister tried to teach him math, but after calling her "queen bossy boots" she gave the job up.

I can only imagine how quickly his little behind would be in the principal's office if he wasn't homeschooled. As it is the principal gets 3-4 text messages a day with the antics of an insane 4 year old.

Puppies Prisions and Wounded Soldiers

It's a strange combo, but I heard this story last week and thought it one of the most brilliant ideas I've ever heard.

Faith in Action

This was posted on the American Chesterton Society Blog and is SO worth sharing.

We helped with a project for a missionary in Angola last year, I think this year, the kids and I will be scrounging our pennies to support this project. The actions of a few can bring hope to many.

The simple joy of Soup

Soup, a hot liquid, a plain and simple food that warms the heart and soul. I love soup, I make it far too often, but, there is something about the making and eating of it that makes me so happy. I have a reputation among some for my soups, its pretty much a given that if you give birth ,I'll give you soup. Every mama needs homemade soup.

But what is it about it? I've been thinking about it. What other substance can please a picky eater? What else can turn a whole lot of nothing into a great meal? What else says I hope you feel better like soup?!Soup is love in a bowl. Even a "quick" soup says I love you.

I've probably written about this before, but with old age setting in, the memory goes!

Can't make heads or tails of the Health Care Plan?

Neither can I, but Sean over at the Blue Boar took the time to break down a few things. It is very worth reading. It is good there are people to read through it and explain it to my dumb sea cucumber self.

I guess any future babies will not be born there!

I had my last at this hospital. I worry about stuff like this. Not just because women are vulnerable during birth, but because having more than 2 kids is becoming less and less popular. I hope the woman wins this suit and gets enough out of it to adopt 10 kids!


***Note***
After I posted, the article was pulled form my local paper's website. The jist of the story is that a local woman went in for the C-section birth of her third child and without her permission the Dr. did a tubal ligation. The Hospital was Rush-Copley, in Aurora, IL

Cock-eyed Optimist?

I never pegged myself as an optimist, matter of fact, my oldest and dearest friends would probably laugh out loud to hear me say it, but I am. Sure I think that the world is going to hell in a hand basket, I mean, seriously, look around! But I'm pretty sure there is a hole somewhere in that mass produced basket that is a way out, there is always hope.

Hope is a funny thing, it is one of those virtues that you have to pray for, to ask God for, and cannot "earn". I cannot give a great lesson one hope, Salvi et Spes puts into words my hearts deepest beliefs, and my dumb sea cucumber self can only put into feeble mutterings how important hope is. Hope has become my driving force. As bad as it seems, as bad as the government, or schools or economy are, I still believe that it has a purpose, we cannot give up, or simply whine about how bad it is. Hope puts faith into action.

I dunno what else to say, it has been a crummy day that makes me miss a lot of old friends, and really wish I could hide in a beer slushy (don't ask), but for some stupid reason, I still see the goodness, I still believe in hope. All the crap has a purpose.

After mulling things over

I was going to start a series of posts on Eating green, healthy and on a budget this week, because many of my friends are asking how we manage to do it, then I saw this and it just seemed wrong. Maybe another time.

View this movie at cultureunplugged.com

Wait, I don't rember voting for him...

This week China has decided it's one child policy is an utter failure, at the same time one of the far too many Czars of the US government is being called out for this. I'm pretty sure this guy would consider a newborn whale an actual whale, and a do whatever it takes to protect it. It is sad that far too many do not see human babies in the same light.

Funniest Bumper Sticker I've seen in a while

Actually, my husband saw it in a gas station lot...

"I'll keep my freedom, guns and money, you can keep the change"

The #1 reason Chesterton Should be a Saint

Totally selfish reason, He died on my wedding anniversary. I remember crying when I looked a the Liturgical Calendar and it was blank on June 14 ( hey, I'm a good Catholic girl!). I tell people my wedding date and everyone says the same thing, "Flag Day? Are you patriotic?". Trust me, that had nothing to do with it. I need a feast day on June 14th that fits, and St. Gilbert would do!

For more on the Canonization mutterings read here.
or here or here, for they are all far more brilliant and less selfish.

Be careful what you ask for, you might get it

One of life's little lessons.
I live in a very nice community, my husband likes to (half) joke that we are the slums of this particular town in our little cramped condo. I often go to the park or library and get the feeling that I do not belong there with my kids, in their hand-me-down clothes. A friend once told me she felt like she needed to be dusted off in similar situations, entering the giant houses of my town, but coming from a bungalow on the South side. I thought she was silly, but I run that conversation over in my head daily lately. I know how she felt.

But just as I start feeling bad for myself, I remember a book that I read. It was a biography of Dorothy Day, upon reading it, I begged God to give me poverty so I could be as simple as Mary, and because I knew how petty and wasteful I could be. He has given me so much, I am not even close to poverty, but simplicity, yes. I asked to always remember those who had less, yet I whine and feel bad for myself. God did not give me true poverty, but he gave me what was good for me.

What's next?

One of the previews before Harry Potter is Sherlock Holmes, starring, Robert Downey, Jr. with lots of Explosions. Really? Ugh. Next year can I expect Father Brown Mysteries, starring Christian Bale? Or Miss Marple with Gwenyth Paltrow?

Counting the hours

My sister's husband leaves Afghanistan in 24 hours, God willing. I'm not especially close with him, but I cannot bear to see my sister agonize while the news reports come on, or dread every knock at the door. 24 hours and he will be on a plane to somewhere in Europe, by the end of July he'll be on U.S. soil.

The Last Acceptable Prejudice?

Today I was listening to NPR's The Talk of the Nation. I usually enjoy this show, but today, ugh, they were talking about people's objections to Sonia Sotomayor. Great, I thought, I really want to hear this, I think more needs to be said about her. After a few minutes of intelligent discussion, they took calls. The first caller that they allowed on the air, as I'm sure these things are screened, gave her reason for not wanting Sotomayor, she's Catholic. The caller, a older woman went on to complain about how there are already 5 Catholics, and how 6 would make a majority. The commentator reminder her that Sotomayor is not known for her orthodoxy. The caller reminded him that she was raised in a Catholic home and schooled by the Church, and couldn't be trusted. She kept going, Catholic believe in having too many kids, and are causing population problems, Nice, huh.

There are plenty of reasons to have concerns about Sotomayor, but her faith as a reason should not be one of them. So what she is Catholic! If anyone said she cannot be trusted because she is a woman, Hispanic, went to Yale, etc. it would be completely unacceptable, as it should be. However, being a baptized Catholic makes one open to bigotry. Why is it okay?

My Grandfather was raised Southern Baptist, his family disowned him when he married my Irish Catholic grandmother and converted. His family was taught to not trust Catholics, they kept guns in their churches waiting for a signal from the pope to take over the U.S. They sent their kids to Special schools to get them ready for this. Okay, this may have been slightly less bad in the 1940's, but now, we are far beyond this, right?

I guess that not much has changed in nearly 2000 years.

4th of July Memories

I think I'm getting old, this 4th I spent the whole day thinking about being a kid and what we did on the 4th. Really, it was nothing special, but something about it was to me. The 4th is one of my dad's 3 "high holidays", the former Marine is patriotic to the core, and loved being able to show it.

The day usually began with everyone sleeping in, a family tradition in my parent's house, and ended with mosquito bites and smoking monkeys. But,what fell in between, simple though it was, holds magic in my memories. Dad always mowed the lawn on the 4th. I vividly remember swinging while he mowed the lawn around me, all the while blaring his Marine Corp Band records. Sousa serenaded us as the grass flew around us. I remember the pride that swelled in him as he loudly, and not very well, sang along. To this day I can remember most of the words to Stars and Stripes Forever, and rarely lapse into verses about ducks.

Once the lawn was done, he'd smoke a cigar, usually my mother was in the house, so he made use he wasn't caught. Then, the real fun could begin, snakes. I'm still not sure why they are so fun, but we could watch him light snakes with his cigar for hours and still not get enough. Like all the men in my life, my dad liked to play with fire, so he would spend hours getting the charcoal grill "just right". Of course, this usually meant throwing in a few firecrackers, just to test it out.

Most of the fun we had is now illegal, small fireworks and the like, but back then, we would beg and plead for him to light bottle rockets. Dad is in publishing, and his proofs and film came in long tubes, which happen to be perfect for launching bottle rockets. After a while, my mother, the nurse, would come out and give us the "someone's going to get hurt" speech. Once she was back in the house, though, Dad went back to it!

The rest of the day was pretty similar to most people's BBQ, and fireworks. We always left at 7:30, in jeans that we had out grown since last required to wear them a month prior. Like I said, really, it was nothing special, but looking back, my eyes tear and I smile from the simple beauty of it all. This year is rainy and cold, but you never know what memories will be made.

Raising Adults

I had a revelation this week, and honestly, I'm not sure why it took me so long. These little (or not so little in the cast of the 11 yr. old female!) are going to grow up someday and not have me to butter their toast. They need to learn to do this on their own.

Sure, my kids do chores , and plenty of other independent things, they have responsibilities, but I still baby them as much as I can. The youngest is almost 5, and I still baby him far too much. I had a vision of him, 30, in my home, with me doing all the things I do now for him, that he could do on his own. Frightening. There is a time for babying and a time for training up children to be independent adults. The time has come for more lessons in the later.

Sure, I will still cook for them, but why can't I expect them to help with the cooking? They all need to learn to sort and wash clothes eventually, why not at least give them a taste of it now? It seems like common sense, which is why I'm so embarrassed I forgot. But what seems so logical has become a lost mentality.

My husband manages a store, and several of his staff still live at home, well into their 20's, and depend upon their parents for a car, home and food. I was married at 22, and had a child at 23. It is completely ridiculous that this is becoming common place. We are becoming a nation of children in adult bodies. China has been struggling with this same problem for a few years now, because of the doting that one child receives.

The 4th of July is a reminder of our Nation's Independence, let's try to be patriotic, and raise our children to be independent adults.

Bored

I thought of writing a poem, but figured I'd spare any readers I have left the agony.Last week I hurt my back. No biggie, well, actually it is pretty serious, but I do not dwell on hings much. Since then, I've been told to "take it extra easy". Okay, I though that meant no lifting the 4 year old, but according to the Doctors, it means no anything.

I do not handle inactivity well, especially when I can see all the stuff I need to do. But, this is a reminder to slow down, take it easy. Sometimes God forces us to do this if we will not do it on our own.

Fresh

I love late spring for a few reasons, but the biggest is that the farmer's markets open. In the past I used to complain about how expensive they are and not go, but for various reasons, that has changed. The first is that, food in general is more expensive than it has been in the recent past, so if I can get it so fresh that it smells like the earth, it is worth the money.

Why shop the farmer's market? Take for example my jaunt today. I wanted eggs. yes, they are $4/dozen, which is a heck of a lot more than Jewel plain old eggs, but I got them from the person who raised the chickens. The farmer I got them from today was there with his home schooled daughter and made sure we got green eggs in our dozen. He told me all about the varieties of chickens he has and what they eat. Can you get that from Jewel? No, you cannot. You also cannot be sure how old the eggs are, I know mine were gathered yesterday. 

Maybe it is the books I've been reading, maybe it is that fact that I have far too much Chesterton on my i-pod, but buying local and independent is one very real way we can help our economy.  

Under Pressure

Tomorrow is my middle son's First communion. Big day, but I live for big days. However, this time, there are many convergences that are causing me a bit of stress. No not the food, or the weather, or even will he stand still, but will the people coming be moved. Yes, moved.

Two people are coming that are fallen away Catholics. One happens to be my little sister, whom I love very much, and frankly, pity, she really did not get a fair upbringing or exposure to the faith. She called today to let me know she is church shopping. This is better than her current state of nothingness, but I want her to be Catholic again. The faith of her baptism. I want her three kids to be Catholic, too. All this is happening because her husband's base in Afghanistan was attacked last week, and he decided they need a church. He is not Catholic, but again, I'd give my right arm, and my left for that matter for him to cross the Tiber.

Why does this cause me stress? I feel like I need to impress them at Mass. Yes, me, the dumb sea cucumber (if Aquinas was a Dumb ox, I must be a dumb sea cucumber). But then, I remember, wait, is it my job to impress? Not at all. Sure I can sing my little heart out tomorrow, but that would only bring attention to me. No, the Mass is about Love, pure, undying selfless love. But how I share that in the Mass? I don't, again, not me. 

But what can I do? My best guess is pray for them, show my genuine love of being there. I know it's tomorrow, but I'd appreciate any suggestions!

Crawling out from under a rock

It's been a month since I blogged. No particular reason for the length of absence, life is just very busy this time of year. What with recitals, and communions and school projects, I nearly missed the flowers of spring.

I vowed 11 years ago to NEVER miss the beauty and majesty of spring. You see, I was stuck in the hospital pregnant with my eldest child. I went in March 13, when there was a foot of snow on the ground, and came home in Mid-May, but to total bed rest in my home. Dear daughter arrived June 5, after recovering from the traumas of surgery and lack of sleep, I saw the outdoors after spring had passed.

This year, I lamented that I missed the blooming of the trout lilies, the beautiful wildflower that carpets the woodland floor, due to my own busy life, however, I did manage to see one, as I realized my loss. Life is to beautiful to miss due to busy-ness. How often I spend time on things that lack beauty! Even the most mundane tasks of life can be filled with beauty, when done with great love, or with a little effort to see the hidden. 

Rejoice!

Regina Caeli, Laetare, Alleluia.

Quia quem meruisti portare, Alleluia, 

Resurrexit, sicut dixit, Alleluia, 

Ora pro nobis Deum, Alleluia!

O, Queen of Heaven, Be joyful, Alleluia, 

For He, whom you humbly borne for us, Alleluia, 

Has arisen, has he promised, Alleluia, 

Offer now our prayer to God, Alleluia!

Making the most of the time that is left

It's Holy Week, the final few days of Lent. The last days to pray, sacrifice and give alms, in other words, IT'S NOT TOO LATE! Holy Week is Cram week on a huge scale. Sure, there is not good excuse for doing absolutely nothing all of Lent, and suddenly becoming devote in Holy week, but for those of us who tried, really tried, and failed, this is a call to action. 

Why? Because this week of all weeks there will be more naysayers on TV, more anti-Christian news articles (Newsweek still is showing up in my mail  box, this week, the Death of Christian America), and general malaise from much of the general population. But, we are not them, we are God's beloved Sons and Daughters, who return His love with devotion. That is what Holy Week is all about, love and devotion. The Father's devotion to a promise of old, the Son's Love for us, and the call for us to return that Love and Devotion. We are not required to do much this week, fast and pray. Everything else is done out of our love, even the things that may seem like they should be required, are not.

Just think, what could you (or I) be doing to help those around us who think our devotions are silly. There is always room for a little more prayer when those people aggravate us, or belittle our efforts. What about making another small sacrifice for that friend, or another who we want to help. Something as simple as drinking only water, or passing up the seconds, offered in prayer is a great gift. Or, when we are too tired, and crabby, smiling at our children, even though they may be the cause of our exhaustion and crankiness, just to say I love you. The list of ideas could go on forever!

Have a blessed Holy week, and make the most of the time before we celebrate the resurrection!

Somethings in Life are Just Fun!

Living in Chicago, I cannot help but picture this in Union Station! Thanks to My friend Julie, the Internet Queen!

My Sides are splitting!

Another case of you might cry if you do not laugh! 

H/t: too many to mention!

Double speak?

I think I'm preaching to the Choir a bit, we all know kids are gifts, right? But I am getting tired of being told my MY CHURCH kids are not welcome. You know, the looks when they make noise, the "oh, sorry, adults only" message at devotions, I can tolerate these, but today, I am mad. I was told that I could not bring my kids with me to a meeting. Now I know that kids do not belong everywhere, trust me, I leave them home ALL THE TIME. This was different, it was a 45 minute meeting and my boys brought entertainment, they actually behaved, too. I had not choice either. Well, that was two weeks ago, today my boys, were accused of defacing the church. They were the only kids who coudl have possible doen it, no other children are ever in the room. Normally, to quote Bill Crosby, there would be beatings. This time, though, I really doubt they were to blame. I was with them, watching them, and they were not being trouble, I find it hard to believe they scuffed the walls. Now before you say, sure lady, not YOUR kids, hear me out. I am the first to blame them for any mess within 100 feet. But this time, I cannot see who they could have, they just didn't have the time or opportunity. 

The bigger problem is one I've felt for years, you have to chose to be a parent or to be involved in church. From my early teens I wondered why young adults were not involved in parishes. Now I know, once you have kids, the welcome sign disappears. The irony is that this ministry is to help women in crisis pregnancies, a Pro-life ministry, yet the double message, no children welcome. Being a good faithful law abiding Catholic woman means that sometimes, YOU HAVE KIDS. When will our culture wake up and realize that? There has to be a way to be both involved in a church and a parent. Thanks for listening to my rant. Next week, Cry rooms and the Culture of Death!

Stations of the Cross and Kids

As much as I love the devotion of the Stations of The Cross, it can be hard to get away to do them by myself. Not to mention the fact that kids like doing the stations. It can be hard, though to take a 4 year old and a 7 year old that cannot stop talking to pray the stations. They both feel the need to talk about what they think happened. This is not bad, but disruptive to the elderly lady who is there by herself. A few years back I came up with a solution. Pray them at home.

Of course this seems obvious, it is. We however, have added a few little things to keep the the ADD at bay. First of all, we make the preparation last a few days. One day we color the pictures that I have copied from  Lent and Easter in the Domestic Church. The next day, we walk around the house and decide out path for the stations. We then tape up the pictures, and hope hyper 4 year old does not rip them down. The last day of the project, we pray the stations, walking from room to room and through the halls that have the pictures. We sing Stabat Mater, and do short meditations, all the while the kids are talking, usually about what they think was happening on the road to Calvary. We only spend about 30 minutes doing the stations, longer than that and we lose  someone. For us, it has been the perfect solution. We pray the stations, the kids get to experience them, and the elderly lady at church gets the silence that after years of kids, she deserves.

Getting old stinks

The primary reason is you have to witness even older friends suffer the things that come with age. Yesterday, a woman I credit more than any other person with helping me become who I am, was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. I know this woman well enough to know she will embrace her cross with great joy, seeing God in her pain. That does not take away the worry I will have or the fear of losing her. Again my selfishness shows. It's all about me, my need for her. 

I was 13 when I met her, and threw up on her shoes. Nice intro, but she tenderly cared for me and drove me home from church. For some reason, God has let us keep in touch though my rough teen years, rebellious college days and the chaos of my life as a wife and mother. I have so many moments of joy and learning from her. She is who I would like to be as I age, Please pray for my friend, I still have so much to learn from her.

Favorite Quotes from Favorite Saints

Today two of my favorite saints to quote have their Feast Day. Enjoy!

Nothing seems tiresome or painful when you are working for a Master who pays well; who rewards even a cup of cold water given in love of Him - St. Dominic Savio

It is Most Laudable for a woman to be devout, but she must remember she is a housewife and sometimes she must leave God in the altar to find him in her housekeeping- St. Frances of Rome

How to Handle an Economic Crisis

If you don't laugh, you'll end up crying!

H/T: to my friend Julie

Where there there is saddness, Joy

This weekend has been hard, two of my best friends had miscarriages, one yesterday, the second, today. For lack of a better way of putting it, I'm tremendously sad for them. I cannot imagine their  sorrow, loss or pain, but I can feel mine. It seems so selfish of me, to mourn their babies.  I was so excited for them, they both were delighted to welcome a new little life into their lives, and I was delighted to witness their joy and eager to meet their little one. That life is gone. 

How can the sorrow of a promise never fulfilled be soothed? I long for the perfect words to say to them, for the right glance or embrace to make it better, but I know, I have little to offer. I have never felt this pain firsthand, thank God. I feel even worse that I put off pregnancy while so many of my friends long for a baby, it just feels selfish of me. I know that that is how it has to be for now, but still, I wish I could take away their longing. 

Moments like this are beyond my understanding, I am not meant to see how this fits in God's plan for my friends. It is not a crisis of faith, or a moment of doubt, just a lack of knowledge, but faith picks up where knowledge leaves off. 

Sometimes it's Best to Not Say it Out Loud

At least in the presence of a 4 year old who might repeat what you say. Take for example, my feelings about the current weather resulting in the 4 year old declaring, " I'm gonna kick that damn groundhog if I ever see him! Six more weeks of winter" when he was cold.Hmmm, wonder where he heard that one?

Oh, Sure, Now You Tell Me

Every year I give up coffee for Lent.  And every year a new study comes out stating the health benefits of coffee. Why would this year be different? My poor pale Irish skin needs coffee. I'll guess I'll risk it for 40 days!

To add insult to injury, I heard for the first time this morning the "Coffee Cantata" by J.S. Bach. A piece of sheer brilliance!I really really really like coffee. Off to drink a nice dull cup of tea.

Motto for Motherhood, Expect the Unexpected.

Like your son throwing up all over the church 4 minutes before the Ash Wednesday evening Mass begins.  Father DeSalvo's only commnet, "Second one today". 

Books for Lent

Lent and Easter in the Domestic Church 

We have had this book for years, and still really enjoy it. It is chocked full of ideas, recipes and crafts, not to mention the coloring pages. Much of it is available at this site.

Lent and Easter Wisdom from G.K. Chesterton

I just got this, but I use the Advent counterpart. Chesterton happens to be my favorite author, however, if he does not float your boat( and given his girth, he might sink it!), there are many other options available in this series.  I love this series for the fact that each day's meditation consists of a writing from the author, a scriptural passage, a prayer and an action.

In Conversation with God Volume 2, Lent and Easter

Again, something I try to use each year. The In Conversation series is a classic. Everyday the mediation is a springboard to prayer. The Gospel is reflected upon in each meditation, but in the light of the richness of the Catholic Faith,  writings of the Saints, Church councils and theologians are used in conjunction. 

Look for more tools for Lent in the coming weeks. 

Something different on Economy and Stimuli

From Glimpses of the Church Fathers:

"In the economy of the mysteries of Christ, the miracles are graces and stimuli which reinforce doctrine. This enables us to follow the actions of Him whom we confess in the spirit of faith." - Saint Leo the Great, Homilia XII in ieiunio decimi mensis, 1-2

Message of Hope

I just turned this in for our Parish newsletter, and thought I'd share it. Excuse the High School-ish book review, its all I have energy for.

Message of Hope, edited by Fr. John R. Waiss

It has been nearly a year since the Holy Father’s visit to the United States, and many may have forgotten the beautiful addresses he gave, the people he spoke with and the over all impact of his visit. Now is a good time to reflect again on his time here, and to see what the Holy Father has to say to us. Message of Hope is a collection of the words of our Pontiff during his 2008 visit to the United States, but it is also much more.

As the reader goes through each address, they are given a summarization in the margin of the book, to help to better absorb all that the Holy Father had to say. His words are simple, but challenging at the same time and summarization gives key points to focus in on. 

Message of Hope is a study guide to be used as the words of the Holy Father are reflected upon. Throughout each address questions are given to better understand the audience that was being addresses, the topic at hand and how it relates to our rich Catholic faith. The questions are ideal for a study group, or for an individual looking to gain more form the words of the Holy Father on his U.S. visit. 

Many questions may arise when reading the addresses. What was he talking about? Who was he addressing? What does this have to do with me at this time? Message of Hope also addresses these questions with a personal reflection at the end of each address. The points of reflection are very good for taking to prayer or using in conjunction with an Examination of Conscience. The Personal Reflections would also be a help to those who like to read in Adoration, to join their prayer and reading together. There would be no better place to read and reflect on the Holy Father’s words than our Adoration Chapel! (Note: our parish just opened a new chapel) 

Message of Hope also features a concise thematic index to assist those looking for specific subjects addresses by Benedict XVI. This enables the reader to also pursue study into a topic of interest via the addresses of the Holy Father.

There is the assumption that reading the works of Benedict XVI can be difficult, and at times this is true, however Message of Hope puts the Holy Father’s words into an easy to read and comprehend format. Message of Hope will be enjoyed by anyone who wants to know more about the Pope and learn more about his words to us, his sheep.

Have I mentioned I hate Valentine's Day?

'cuz I really do! I have not liked Valentine's day since Jr. high. Once I became the brooding teen I was, I always wore black on Valentine's day. Guess What? I'm wearing black. Yep. I still hate it. It is a stupid holiday in which people who otherwise might not go out of there way to do something special for each other do. Nice.

I much prefer Tuesdays. Yep, Tuesdays. Years ago, when I told my now husband that we WERE NOT celebrating Valentines day, because it is a stupid forced affection day, I told him I much prefer a surprise on a random Tuesday. One random Tuesday, he showed up with flowers, the next I sent him a card, and while we were dating this went on. After almost 12 years of marriage, Tuesdays are making a comeback. It is so nice to get a note, or card or flower (we do have kids now, so only one is in the budget!) for no reason rather than because it is expected. 

Did I mention I get injured on Valentine's Day? The one year my now husband decided he would get me a Valentine's day gift, I got so mad I jumped on my dorm room bed hastily and managed to sprain my ankle. I softened to Valentine's day in 2000, when my daughter had a cute outfit to wear, that year, I shattered my humerus and had to have emergency surgery and 7 months of physical therapy to use my arm again. Ever since the Arm, we let the kids do their parties, but we do not mention the V-day. Tuesdays are much safer!

Happy Rod in the Arm Day, as we call it around here.

Where your treasure is, there your heart shall be.

I've been thinking about this verse often lately. Recently many opportunities have come before me to give of my time, talent or treasure. I like and believe in may of the causes, but I cannot give to all of them. Some I may have given to last year, but for many reasons, I will not this. Where is my heart in my giving?

Last year I made a contribution to my local Public Radio Station. I listened often, so it seemed worth it. In turn I got a "free" subscription to Newsweek. In the past year, I have found the same station to offend me more and more, mostly regarding their portrayal of Christians and Pro-Life people. Newsweek is outright anti-Catholic and 100% pro-choice. I cannot give my treasure there, but a place like sqpn needs funding, and can do far more good,and so my heart turns to where the truth is.

I volunteer with a a large breastfeeding organization. This group is not organized and lately has lost its focus. I'm saddened by what I see, and the mothers I work with in my affluent community frequently are too quick to quit nursing for a trip, or to be able to spend more time working out. Both can be important, but, it seems so selfish to me. I'm judgemental, I know. Where is my heart? Again, My treasure needs to move toward the greater need. I now am able to shift my focus to teaching Breastfeeding to women in Crisis pregnancies. These women need help, they need someone to say that they can do it, they need someone to believe in them. They will most likely be working and away from baby, but, they will have that quiet moment when they get home that they can be the sole provider for their baby, and my hope it that will empower them.My heart is in this work, with the support of my organization.

It can be anything really, but my Heart and Treasure need to be united. If all I do is for Glory of God, it is a waste if my heart is not in it. It wastes my money, my usefulness and my time. I guess I have flipped the verse, where my heart is, there my treasure is, but,my real treasure is in Heaven, and that is where my heart longs for, so if my treasure in this world and my heart do not match up, how can I unite them for heaven?

Me Know Music

What exactly happens to the knowledge that once dwelled in our brains daily after a few years of non-use? This is the great mystery I need to solve. Twice this week I have been asked to define a music theory term, and the answer was pathetic. I used to be able to spout off this kind of stuff. Where did the knowledge go? 

I've heard theories, the best was that the knowledge that filled a brain pre-children goes out with the milk. So after 11 years of nursing kids, my brain should be pretty empty. That would explain the fact that I now respond to simple questions like a cave-woman. 

The sad thing is that this very useful knowledge has been replaced by other information, like the names of every Star Wars guy that litters my living room floor. Or even better, how to make a paper water bomb. How could this info be more important than the definition of fugue? 

At this point all the Ginkgo in the world cannot help, I guess it is time to just give in. So if you ask me an intelligent question, and I look glazed over, use small words and hand gesture, and maybe I can come up with a two word answer.

Video Game Review- Lego Games Part 1

By request, I'm going to tackle all three Lego games. These are some of my favorite games in all honesty, we play them all the time. Lego Star Wars was the first release, and is the best of the three. Lego Indiana Jones is good, but if you have seen the Indiana Jones movies is much better and Lego Batman is the most recent of the three and the one I like the least.

First, Lego Star Wars. I've played this on three systems, Wii, X Box 360 and PSP. I've seen the DS version played by my nephew. The best part of the game is the sheer length of time it takes to play through the entire thing. It lasts weeks and weeks, if you are playing it regularly, but not constantly. It is a cooperative 2 player, which I always love, and a very enjoyable one player. 

I was asked particularly about the rating of E-10 for comic mischief. Let me explain that, Legos die. You blast Lego Storm Troopers and other Lego "bad guys" (and Jar Jar). That is the reason for the rating. That said, if your children have seen the Star Wars movies, they have been exposed to more violence. The violence is a bit funny, in all honesty, because the characters break like Legos break, into pieces. There is no blood or guts and the violence is confined to fighting. Use your judgement in letting younger kids play this, the rating is a suggestion. Most families I know have let this game be played my younger children (6+, usually).

The actual game is really fun. You journey through all 6 of the Star Wars films, which are broken up into 6 sections. First you play through in Story mode, and have to play each film in order, but once you have completed an episode in Story mode, it is open for Free play. There is a nice combination of  "ship" levels and character levels.  The game can get complicated at times, but it is easy to play once you get the hang of the buttons.

As for how it plays on each system, PSP and X Box play very similarly, you mash buttons. One the Wii you have the option of swinging the wiimote or button mashing, depending on how you want to play. DS, lots of tapping, loud tapping. Other than play, the key difference between the systems is that on X Box 360 you can earn achievements. They are pretty funny too, there is one for killing Jar Jar 20 times. Needless to say, it did not take long to earn that one. 

Overall, Lego Star Wars is a nice family friendly game. I enjoy playing it with my 7 year old  son, it is easy enough for him and entertaining enough for me.  As for the rating, each parent knows their child and what they can handle. Just another note, it is easy enough to find the Star Wars games (there are technically 3, even though the complete saga is 1 and 2 put together on one disk) used. That helps save a bit of money.

Sadness and Joy

This weekend a woman who had a great deal to do with who I am now died. I had not seen her for years, but because of her work with youth, I met my husband, learned practical cooking tips, and mot importantly, grew in my love of Christ.

Jean was a mother, not just to her children, but to foster children, and to the many many teens and young adults that came into her home over the years. She cared for each and every one of us, I truly believe, even when, like a good mother, she was correcting us. In remembering her, I recalled first the times she was teaching, explaining the various things we needed as we prepared for a retreat. Sometimes we would have other ideas, and Jean would explain in a stern yet loving way, why it would not work. I remember being annoyed at the time, but as usual, Jean was right. She new more than a 16 year old, imagine that!

Jean died cooking for her husband, who also helped many many young people grow closer to Christ. The fondest memories I have of both of them are the many in which they guided us to take the reigns, so to speak. They were forming Leaders, not just Christians, but Christians who would look beyond themselves to serve and then guide.

I was at Mass when I was told Jean died last night while cooking dinner. I was so saddened, but another friend reminded me, that think of Jean's encounter with God, think of all the people she led to Christ, to faithful marriages, to serve. I truly believe that God will look at her and say"Well done my good and faithful servant"

Active life Out Door Challenge for Wii

This is the game that promoted me to want to review games here! My husband saved us from the cabin fever that was destined to do us in by bringing Active Life home this bitter cold week.

I really really like this game. I was skeptical, another extra(the mat) is the last thing I wanted in the house, but as I said, super cold days were turning us into couch potatoes. We've only had Active life for a few days, but a few simple things one me over. First of all, the game is impossible to play from the couch, you run, jump and shake your way though the game. Virtual Jump Rope sounds easy, but as a woman who has now virtually fallen on her nose, it is even harder than the real thing! There are daily fitness modes, too, not unlike Wii fit, but far more fun. 

The second thing that has impressed me is that the hyper 4 year old of the house can play. There are very few games he can join in on, even Mario Cart Wii is a huge challenge for him, and he never wins. In Active Life, he can run and jump and best of all for the little guy, win. I have also seen his behavior improve in the last few days since he has had an outlet for his energy. 

The third impressive point is what I am currently witnessing, co-op play. Two kids, or mom and a kid, can play at the same time, with the option of playing as a cooperative team. They are not just playing at the same time, or against each other, but they have to work together to succeed in the team mode. 

The downside of Active life is the mat, it is big and if you have many accessories, like we do, it is one more thing to store. Also, some of the games are a bit hard and take a while to learn, but there are very good instructions.  Like I said, we have only had this for a few days, but from what I have seen, it seems worth the $60 it costs, at least in weather where we are not leaving the house and need to get energy out. It is less expensive than taking the kids to the movies, and even there they'd be sitting around.

Video Games-New feature

My Husband works in the Video game industry and for several years it was our little secret. After all, Homeschooler don't play video games, right? the few people who knew where he worked reminded me how he was contributing to the demise of morals and corrupting youth. Nice, huh. We quietly brought several game systems to our home, and enjoyed them, secretly. When other homeschoolers came over, my kids were not allowed to play games with them, as their parents did not allow them to play. Slowly word got out that we were the "video game" family. Shame on us.

I never felt like we were being corrupted, we carefully chose what games came into the house, and we set rules and timers for usage. We played Wii together, and interacted the entire time, as a family, not as individuals. It seemed to me that there were worse ways we could spend time together.

Attitudes have changed, most of our friends have gotten a Wii, and we weekly get calls or emails for game recommendations. My husband has access to  most every new game on the market for us to try, so we can give opinions of almost everything. We try to look at each game as parents, what will be good for kids of various ages, and the parents who have to watch them. That said, I am going to start reviewing video games here. I think there is a need for families to have a place to go to see if games are appropriate for kids and if they are truly family games. I'll take requests for game reviews, at times I will use my husband's opinion and not actual game play for info. 

Video games are not the evil that may have made them out to be, like everything in life, in moderation and with selection, they can be a good way to learn.

In response to my last post

It's like this was written for me..

In the Bleak Mid-winter

I honestly have to say, I hate January. All of the excitement of Christmas comes to an end, the weather is dismal and the days are cold and grey. I just feel tired the whole month, like the life is being sucked out of me. Every task that requires me to leave the house is faces with the dread of scraping the car, warming the car, driving in the snow, being stuck in traffic, not to mention the bundling the kids and listening to them whine about how cold it is. I know it is cold, and I want to whine, too!

Even the house loses its brightness, the recovery from the Christmas decorating seems to take forever, nothing seems to be in the right place. There are no sweet smells of cinnamon, just soup and plain warm things. While December is filled with the sound of Christmas music, January is filled with the sound of batteries dying in Christmas toys.

I look at my poor little aloe, shivering on my window ledge, and like the plant long for the warmth of the sun on me, I long for the sweet smell of grass and the shrill sound of frogs in the air. I long for the days that seems to go on forever, and the nights that make you want to never sleep again, for fear you will miss a moment.

Those days are still long off in Chicago. For now, all I can do is escape into a book, or try to make everyone think it is warm with the sweet taste of tropical fruits. It is a good effort, but not the same. Everyone is still grumpy and morose. The darkness still looms at the door and very little can keep it at bay.

Even the prayers of winter seems less joyful, we are in the growing time, the season to learn, but long before any growth can take place, the ground has to be prepared. The snow has to melt. The bitter cold sometimes mirrors the bitterness of our hearts. The ecstasy of Christmas leaves us behind as we trudge back into the routine of our daily work, and forget the small babe in the manger, for he is much harder to love when he is dirty and tired from his time with the fishermen. His work is our work, and is not a work of gratification, but a work of great love. In the cold, in the grey, will we be able to fish? Will we be able to shine, even in the darkness of winter, when we feel the darkness ourselves.

Dressing the pre-teen

This is my dilemma of the week. My 10 year old is 5'4" and therefore cannot wear kid's clothes. She loves skirts. But, have you seen the skirts this season??? My husband refers to them as glorified belts. Thankfully my daughter isn't fond of them, but we have not been able to find her skirts she likes. This is the problem, she wants to look modern and a bit trendy, but not cheap, she wants to be modest, but not Amish. Where is the happy medium, and where can I buy it! I've tried the thrift shops, but the ones by my home are gross. I've shopped and shopped, and only come home with one skirt. 

Pants are not much better. She likes jeans, but again, this year, they are not right. The tight look is in, and she hates tight. Again, she wants to look young but wants to dress modestly. Ugh, why is it so hard to find clothes that are cute, modern and modest?

What to do with a wild four year old?

Lately my dear sweet youngest has become a royal pain in the neck. We are talking beyond the normal antics of a four year old boy. I have another son, and I've seen nonsense before, this is far beyond that. My husband is one of seven, four of which were boys, and even he is done with the insanity. 

So far the suggestion I've received from well meaning people include: 

• Drug him, thanks but no thanks, that doesn't seem like a real solution to me.
• Spank him, again, not an option, we have on occasion tired to spank, and the darn kid laughs, so no need keep that up.
• Take his toys away, well, good idea, but we already did, he can play with anything, not just toys.
• Run him more, great idea, but we have no yard and it's like 20 degrees out.
• Stop giving him sugar, already did that, but he keeps finding all of my hiding spots, and has resorted to my sugar dish.

So far the only advice that seems to have any effect is the advice from my confessor, give up on natural means and go for the supernatural, beg his angel, St. Monica, and anyone else in heaven who will listen. Done. No great results yet, but at least there is hope. 

Pray for me, that I do not resort to my parent's childhood threat to me, and sell him to the gypsies. The joy of Polish parents.