tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66056052636638002562024-02-19T09:03:25.694-05:00The Catholic Homeschooling MomAutism
Home Schooling
CatholicCarmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.comBlogger44125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-37181217473925482482012-12-13T14:54:00.001-05:002012-12-13T14:55:11.893-05:00Cheesy Plug but I LOVE Mine!<a href="http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=330844298466" target="_blank">Purple Wrap Style Rosary Bracelet</a><br />
<br />
I got my Rosary Bracelet and absolutely LOVE it! I can wear it, say it and have it with me at all times! makes a wonderful Christmas gift!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVdmHQlJWTyuyI1H1TSA7EHqTrcEuVCY31y3sm9fxg8T-ZyS0GsJ57slv348FsVjPUS_F2VRe6AmyAyQYrZScV2mSpu44rsWlSCHGLhhDS1_hIxMmEjQv_CGQkVDViDgo2a084mfIwSVU/s1600/ND035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVdmHQlJWTyuyI1H1TSA7EHqTrcEuVCY31y3sm9fxg8T-ZyS0GsJ57slv348FsVjPUS_F2VRe6AmyAyQYrZScV2mSpu44rsWlSCHGLhhDS1_hIxMmEjQv_CGQkVDViDgo2a084mfIwSVU/s320/ND035.JPG" width="305" /></a></div>
I highly recommend this!<br />
<br />Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-46202511225294082302012-12-07T10:53:00.004-05:002012-12-07T11:00:12.299-05:00Advent...thinking and new posting begins!So, now that we are in the season of Advent, I am back to blogging. So many wonderful things, spiritually, have been happening in my life lately, and it is ALL soooooo good. I have recently attended an independent Baptist church that my father attends and spent some time at my mother's Methodist church because my daughter loves doing things with their youth program...all of this has brought me closer than ever to Catholicism. I sat and listened to the Baptist church preacher teach his congregation that the "sprinkling or pouring-type baptism" is a pagan ritual and of Satan himself...and it made me stop and think THESE are the kinds of things being taught to others outside of Catholicism. It's a scary world out there...and thankful for my roots. I grew up in a Christian Missionary Alliance Church, occasionally attending Catholic Mass for my father (he has since left the Catholic faith) I didn't understand anything about Catholicism, at the time, but I always felt something special among the ritual and history and beauty of the Church. I was baptized Catholic as an infant...but that was as far as I went on my walk. But, the seed was planted.<br />
<br />
There have been some influential people in my life along the way. As a very young and immature girl (at age 19) I met someone and got married (waaaaaaaaay too young) But, I did walk away from that experience with one very important thing...another seed planted. I still remember the Shrine that sat in the dining room where the family said their prayers and it always mesmerized me and I so wanted to understand the meaning of it all.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2sOI5H2uM52RGuh6_wE4VijNXjr3Pb9GBKutpVUY-kr7VeQh4bxtx9ey3YzPoYwEdM9YNLqg58HVDtX_52GkzGgnCq9IaAPu1qDYqzZy69QtRgSy8BDNg_H-fQY0Pcn7tE62JBr8u3IY/s1600/2010+07+14+home+shrine.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2sOI5H2uM52RGuh6_wE4VijNXjr3Pb9GBKutpVUY-kr7VeQh4bxtx9ey3YzPoYwEdM9YNLqg58HVDtX_52GkzGgnCq9IaAPu1qDYqzZy69QtRgSy8BDNg_H-fQY0Pcn7tE62JBr8u3IY/s320/2010+07+14+home+shrine.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I remember going to Nona's home and her praying over us at her beautiful Shrine and walking away KNOWING God's hand was on us...I could just FEEL the presence of God...I remember visiting the Schoenstatt Shrine of Light in NY and feeling warmth, love and peace...knowing little about it, but, again, feeling God all around me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjAmJged7M44sFw2YZyEYAPlZTeodaM6fGIXPsRhFu1SdeYeETzV2bjcorxFHVJYq25CiXlJTiC4Hq8NVJ9zHzG6GqSrUQCuaUgSmobUBcCywO0-9G9vSkdDTuGXRtyVLLoRSs37HgmoY/s1600/11422630-large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjAmJged7M44sFw2YZyEYAPlZTeodaM6fGIXPsRhFu1SdeYeETzV2bjcorxFHVJYq25CiXlJTiC4Hq8NVJ9zHzG6GqSrUQCuaUgSmobUBcCywO0-9G9vSkdDTuGXRtyVLLoRSs37HgmoY/s320/11422630-large.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
My then father-in-law would pray for me and bless me every time we saw each other...and to this day I KNOW he is one of my Guardian Angels, sitting with the Lord with that wonderful smile of his. If only I could have internalized that feeling of God and used it in my life, at the time, somehow...little did I know that the planted seed would have grown to what it is today.<br />
<br />
My life, up until now, has been faaaaaaaaar from perfect. But, I know I am forgiven and I learn and move on with the peace of God upon me. The blessings and prayers I received from so many long ago did not go by the wayside. I am who I am today BECAUSE of them, and for that, I am eternally grateful!<br />
<br />
Advent is a wonderful time to do our own seed planting. The plant may not grow for years and you may not ever see the growth...but when we all meet in Heaven, we will know which plants grew and we can hold hands in God's kingdom and thank those who planted our own seeds.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1QsVP9HmDm-JD27jjkqO03P8GSfuN_27HBrKWITd8QOO5i8YjrBIGm7rxNvXzBW3y1BywJ7SJkilVpFEZhWv1l5jILnO7tHfM8fNgX8Z5488-nFFQVxmAw8UKesf5wUHbnfyFFSJmj8U/s1600/seed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1QsVP9HmDm-JD27jjkqO03P8GSfuN_27HBrKWITd8QOO5i8YjrBIGm7rxNvXzBW3y1BywJ7SJkilVpFEZhWv1l5jILnO7tHfM8fNgX8Z5488-nFFQVxmAw8UKesf5wUHbnfyFFSJmj8U/s1600/seed.jpg" /></a></div>
<h1 class="entry-title" style="background-color: white; color: #293546; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17pt; margin: 0px; padding: 10px 0px;">
</h1>
Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-81538711710102875852012-10-15T16:57:00.001-04:002012-10-15T16:57:23.162-04:001st Post-Op Doctor's AppointmentHad my staples removed and it was honestly so much easier than I
expected. Didn't hurt at all! She placed butterfly stitches in place of
them and will see me again in 2 weeks from today. She also opted not to
start me on HRT just yet. Since I am not having any menopause symptoms, she wants to give my body time to get through one trauma before
starting something new. I was very happy that she wasn't jumping too
quickly to add HRT...she said we will sit and discuss all of my options
in 2 weeks. My pathology report is what floored me. I had endo on my
uterus, fallopian tubes and my cervix. She also found numerous cysts on
my ovaries. She looked at me and said "honey, no wonder you were in so
much pain for so long. We absolutely did the right surgery for you".
That made me feel better. So, that's my update. I go back Oct 29th for
another post-op appt...woo hoo!! Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-27003893761270876382012-10-13T13:12:00.001-04:002012-10-13T13:12:52.467-04:00Hysterectomy - Post OpWell, the dreaded day came and went. The first few days were crazy thanks to my low blood pressure, but I made it through and was able to come home on Thursday. I had a full abdominal hysterectomy with removal of my uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries and cervix. The surgeon told me afterwards that the pathology report came back showing endometriosis on my tubes and ovaries and that my uterus was "mush" (her words). I should feel great in a few weeks. So far, I am not having any menopause symptoms. (which has surprised me) Monday I go to have my staples removed and start hormone therapy. I am in a lot of pain, but I am up and around and not feeling as bad as I expected to feel. The nausea has been the worst part...Zofran is my best friend. :)<br />
<br />
Thank you for all the Prayers...Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-17023110062994142442012-10-03T07:49:00.001-04:002012-10-03T07:58:29.357-04:00October...already?Where does the time go? I had every intention of keeping this blog up to date, but unfortunately...life happens.<br />
<br />
After suffering terribly from endometriosis, I am having a full abdominal hysterectomy on October 9th. The doc has decided she is taking everything...uterus, ovaries and ALL to try and control the endo. I feel VERY blessed that God gave me 8 healthy children before the endo kicked in...I know some women suffer terrible, not only with the pain, but with infertility as a result of it. So, I refuse to complain. At 42, I certainly don't need my girl parts anymore. Although, I am not looking forward to going through instant menopause. YUCK.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDuCuoqfOjFjPhPksc0B3gXSEmnFp7OL8WQtSkgJjLUwU1nK4Q5uT7DBg1NFgwqNk6Rp1yJvK-JAb0gFnaR8SGxFd6F7Y87KdUiV0utmSSb8MkExxAqm83YX_CBUz2n50Gm1QmyAF9lMk/s1600/DSCF2012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDuCuoqfOjFjPhPksc0B3gXSEmnFp7OL8WQtSkgJjLUwU1nK4Q5uT7DBg1NFgwqNk6Rp1yJvK-JAb0gFnaR8SGxFd6F7Y87KdUiV0utmSSb8MkExxAqm83YX_CBUz2n50Gm1QmyAF9lMk/s320/DSCF2012.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elliott Surf Fishing at Assateague</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Things are going well, otherwise...We have spent a ton of time on the beach this summer. We are sad to see summer end.<br />
<br />
Elliott has officially completed the 1st Grade through Seton. (LOVE this home school program) He received all A's and one B (the B is in handwriting) I can live with that! LOL.<br />
<br />
<table border="0" style="width: 500px;"><tbody>
<tr><td>Course<br /></td>
<td valign="top">1st
</td><td valign="top">2nd
</td><td valign="top">3rd
</td><td valign="top">4th
</td><td valign="top">Final
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>Art 1 </td>
<td>A </td>
<td>A </td>
<td>A </td>
<td>A </td>
<td>A </td> </tr>
<tr>
<td>English 1 </td>
<td>A+ </td>
<td>A </td>
<td>A- </td>
<td>B+ </td>
<td>A </td> </tr>
<tr>
<td>Handwriting 1 </td>
<td>B </td>
<td>B </td>
<td>C </td>
<td>B </td>
<td>B- </td> </tr>
<tr>
<td>History 1 </td>
<td>A- </td>
<td>A- </td>
<td>A </td>
<td>B </td>
<td>A- </td> </tr>
<tr>
<td>Math 1 </td>
<td>A+ </td>
<td>A+ </td>
<td>A+ </td>
<td>B- </td>
<td>A </td> </tr>
<tr>
<td>Music 1 </td>
<td>A </td>
<td>A </td>
<td>A </td>
<td>A </td>
<td>A </td> </tr>
<tr>
<td>Physical Education 1 </td>
<td>A </td>
<td>A </td>
<td>A </td>
<td>A </td>
<td>A </td> </tr>
<tr>
<td>Reading/Phonics 1 </td>
<td>A+ </td>
<td>A+ </td>
<td>A+ </td>
<td>A+ </td>
<td>A+ </td> </tr>
<tr>
<td>Religion 1 </td>
<td>A- </td>
<td>A- </td>
<td>A </td>
<td>B+ </td>
<td>A- </td> </tr>
<tr>
<td>Science/Health 1 </td>
<td>A </td>
<td>A </td>
<td>A </td>
<td>A </td>
<td>A </td> </tr>
<tr>
<td>Spelling 1 </td>
<td>A </td>
<td>A+ </td>
<td>A+ </td>
<td>A+ </td>
<td>A+ </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
His 2nd grade curriculum arrived yesterday and I am just as in love with his 2nd grade material as I was with 1st. The big difference in the 2nd grade curriculum is they have added Reading Comprehension (which I was supplementing anyway) and 4 book reports. So, he is going to be a busy little guy. I am working this week on writing lesson plans so that after my surgery, we can begin his "new year". Next week I will be out of commission, but I am hoping that by week 2 post-op, I can sit in bed and do some work with him. But, I am leaving it flexible in case I am not able to "think" yet...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNBOdIADIxpRqF3cEEnu5sDIuEH6Epl-6gMn7Pkfv8OHMR-w50y_NyL5IIED9gxHvtzpjfg2f5CCcJ0gkLPfcBhLAtBc-JESmor4Y9IIV1qpwurx4y8qDPeTNJFwFqq0QbtCCiLTErlOM/s1600/DSCF1917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNBOdIADIxpRqF3cEEnu5sDIuEH6Epl-6gMn7Pkfv8OHMR-w50y_NyL5IIED9gxHvtzpjfg2f5CCcJ0gkLPfcBhLAtBc-JESmor4Y9IIV1qpwurx4y8qDPeTNJFwFqq0QbtCCiLTErlOM/s320/DSCF1917.JPG" width="246" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gideon caught a fish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
The other kids are doing well. Ryan is playing JV soccer for his high school, Bo is a freshman and loving it and Emma is at the middle school after home schooling last year. She went back to public school, at her request, and she seems to be doing much better. She joined JrROTC and LOVES it!!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvXGLnhSX9_u-tK2yfipUEfnLDS-lS3unp1DEUbYWIMhdQ3Wgbh3u-lqYUEvjWa5VxRfK4m47BA6qM6-SLDfa2IbiezvbomqFmaViDia9XpLYn1eW8ZvrFCaMT13Lwx8RmhDfQ2hRbB28/s1600/DSCF1955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvXGLnhSX9_u-tK2yfipUEfnLDS-lS3unp1DEUbYWIMhdQ3Wgbh3u-lqYUEvjWa5VxRfK4m47BA6qM6-SLDfa2IbiezvbomqFmaViDia9XpLYn1eW8ZvrFCaMT13Lwx8RmhDfQ2hRbB28/s320/DSCF1955.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emma</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Alex is at Salisbury University and really enjoying the college life. We miss him, though!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8gghHNOQ2FqWF5tyD3BpJxEDgXbLYR1iUQv2qd5KHdtlT9kDGWewDpo-CEI8vxA9_vYQydt3p12pO44-xdiWIvJ4umaYaAExdNnV90OoeXusC_r4fVnNaN08JK7DGFGpX05eT8shB78o/s1600/DSCF2047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8gghHNOQ2FqWF5tyD3BpJxEDgXbLYR1iUQv2qd5KHdtlT9kDGWewDpo-CEI8vxA9_vYQydt3p12pO44-xdiWIvJ4umaYaAExdNnV90OoeXusC_r4fVnNaN08JK7DGFGpX05eT8shB78o/s320/DSCF2047.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ryan fishing as Bo and Eric watch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Gideon is driving me nuts, but has learned how to ride a bike and has started Kindergarten (at home) Not sure if we will continue home schooling him next year...a lot depends on how well he gets through Kindergarten. If he does well, I MAY keep him home and continue on with 1st grade. (otherwise, he will have to repeat K in the public school because of his age)<br />
<br />
Kevin is back to doing school work on-line and taking a computer programming class, with Eric's help. Here is some of Kevin's artwork...he draws all this stuff on-line<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNdonwpxLjdQO3nN8YOexHhnJBVMBkVbyT_QobNI43ojS8athq8ns2tTuxE_dopB6M2pNAHoDwdaQhTkozG1uv1aqVkkryIcswdJcYtl-NoXvyRdtSF9M6Pqy5PD6Z64yE_6Axp8Dx1bA/s1600/akylios_by_zheris-d53jbd1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNdonwpxLjdQO3nN8YOexHhnJBVMBkVbyT_QobNI43ojS8athq8ns2tTuxE_dopB6M2pNAHoDwdaQhTkozG1uv1aqVkkryIcswdJcYtl-NoXvyRdtSF9M6Pqy5PD6Z64yE_6Axp8Dx1bA/s1600/akylios_by_zheris-d53jbd1.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7igiG_aL-_jP5wSP0IOkv6W-H7DNXVvVKmZKYeQ8ypzDriMTi_t5eNi62i8n0m5YYC7Q4SAFP5viMKymdMvX5SkMv2JjomS5XmB3xPxqZM4NUYTfburufYctIYYaWMJhJlriWXHudHcw/s1600/azernos_ahaki_infernus_by_zheris-d5b4h6i.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7igiG_aL-_jP5wSP0IOkv6W-H7DNXVvVKmZKYeQ8ypzDriMTi_t5eNi62i8n0m5YYC7Q4SAFP5viMKymdMvX5SkMv2JjomS5XmB3xPxqZM4NUYTfburufYctIYYaWMJhJlriWXHudHcw/s1600/azernos_ahaki_infernus_by_zheris-d5b4h6i.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivz-9EaBoUC-zi2FVJ99d37pPrfNoz2OUdZ04FRc_6CrMnBAErxaUSc8Hk_D958erJoL6Wxv36cEahpPQ5_VJVIk1jdPmlnzyk07MNT4OO6Dt1MZdtXFzfpRCva0aCIK47iPnAWTyozzk/s1600/bro_tier_by_zheris-d53jbkj.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivz-9EaBoUC-zi2FVJ99d37pPrfNoz2OUdZ04FRc_6CrMnBAErxaUSc8Hk_D958erJoL6Wxv36cEahpPQ5_VJVIk1jdPmlnzyk07MNT4OO6Dt1MZdtXFzfpRCva0aCIK47iPnAWTyozzk/s1600/bro_tier_by_zheris-d53jbkj.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbG5giU77bJlsVkaA8KiftisA0MQiGopxh5CJxu4FKt-iXPJqriEtIgMKGKtHhErohvxbIb8A_qTMnDLt3a7qukVsIDxiEirBCWRM4_9moBZJan2cT3jiYHeGu3wd8Jn-rDMOHAal4XVI/s1600/feelings_by_zheris-d5c7sdn.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbG5giU77bJlsVkaA8KiftisA0MQiGopxh5CJxu4FKt-iXPJqriEtIgMKGKtHhErohvxbIb8A_qTMnDLt3a7qukVsIDxiEirBCWRM4_9moBZJan2cT3jiYHeGu3wd8Jn-rDMOHAal4XVI/s1600/feelings_by_zheris-d5c7sdn.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhInF8skBbDVgsURvgDhWQVlcQcp6jEt9bZAl4qD4PWBwMn9R3sSfWOOWi8PttLBgEJHkZWwUI8zZ351DxzdmIghAftpppxwIuaB3vznD4FyfRQV6aorEKQu-3Z2x-jpAMU4PLoRHMB0HA/s1600/mythrosis_ref_by_zheris-d53jc57.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhInF8skBbDVgsURvgDhWQVlcQcp6jEt9bZAl4qD4PWBwMn9R3sSfWOOWi8PttLBgEJHkZWwUI8zZ351DxzdmIghAftpppxwIuaB3vznD4FyfRQV6aorEKQu-3Z2x-jpAMU4PLoRHMB0HA/s1600/mythrosis_ref_by_zheris-d53jc57.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBzd_8MBCy6sKSwRnYpY3LGopMlOxrxHRvWkG48HdT89Yia_pKZ3V8KT8JP6tGz1-nQEumAmLhBisEpukSGb3Tf43AQNFH7pMCgNMVfU6AXBQ3cxtCkVwJsh9oX9S_NXr22E32AvECgQY/s1600/valeon_by_zheris-d53jb87.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBzd_8MBCy6sKSwRnYpY3LGopMlOxrxHRvWkG48HdT89Yia_pKZ3V8KT8JP6tGz1-nQEumAmLhBisEpukSGb3Tf43AQNFH7pMCgNMVfU6AXBQ3cxtCkVwJsh9oX9S_NXr22E32AvECgQY/s1600/valeon_by_zheris-d53jb87.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Well, that is my update. All is well in the Belardo abode. :)Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-36191057531136889062012-08-01T11:24:00.001-04:002012-08-01T11:24:18.394-04:00Crazy Summer...but, I am BACK!I can't believe I haven't blogged since May! What a crazy summer! Had my gall bladder out in June and we just moved in to our new home! Now I can finally settle down and get back to business...life's normal routine!<br />
<br />
I promise not to be MIA and I also promise some good blogging in the near future! (once I unload a few more moving boxes!)<br />
<br />
LOVE my blogger friends! :)Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-84019497522412053832012-05-15T10:56:00.001-04:002012-05-15T10:56:24.763-04:00Busy, Busy Life!How much crazier can the month of May get? Concerts, Prom, Banquets, Soccer Practices, Ice Hockey Practices, Surgery and Graduation...seriously? Not to mention, we move in 6 weeks!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN0iDxSKwMtNq4kZhiDhtTteV_CCv7t4vW7ZsKWzz23V9lgkJj703qIWeIdo50ntPgkq-3LFoitFnqzevZknqGWImO2ZUCnEyxR2i9P3c_otgL5fAzl7tL2vYJ859rBed7Szc8vb7F1oA/s1600/535791_3871515746046_1223198650_33680004_1468568400_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN0iDxSKwMtNq4kZhiDhtTteV_CCv7t4vW7ZsKWzz23V9lgkJj703qIWeIdo50ntPgkq-3LFoitFnqzevZknqGWImO2ZUCnEyxR2i9P3c_otgL5fAzl7tL2vYJ859rBed7Szc8vb7F1oA/s320/535791_3871515746046_1223198650_33680004_1468568400_n.jpg" width="191" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alex and his prom date</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Tomorrow I am having my gallbladder removed. Although I am sick of being sick, I'm a nervous wreck! It's coming at such a bad time (do these things ever happen at a GOOD time?). I will have one week to recuperate before the graduation madness begins. I had planned to accomplish so much this week, but due to my nervousness (and as Eric puts it...hyperfocus) on the surgery, I have accomplished NOTHING!<br />
<br />
I have managed to be somewhat creative this week, doing some decoupage to ease my mind.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRun46ZH2P15MSUozn_D3W1cqLl1UstZPOtYsh3blbtyOLsSvgFADV6_r_QkXlFeVMqoevy-OO3qnVnmIfgbrQdHAXvmjBbf-B6dQxhV5_cfF-qC9efO_mLO8CUuPypse4TMhhdWCiZ6k/s1600/534805_3883123156224_1223198650_33688633_1951367588_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRun46ZH2P15MSUozn_D3W1cqLl1UstZPOtYsh3blbtyOLsSvgFADV6_r_QkXlFeVMqoevy-OO3qnVnmIfgbrQdHAXvmjBbf-B6dQxhV5_cfF-qC9efO_mLO8CUuPypse4TMhhdWCiZ6k/s320/534805_3883123156224_1223198650_33688633_1951367588_n.jpg" width="191" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glass Jar turned Flower Pot</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjthV0_yxn5e6lU2v8JFegg-yAUgfvurIZXXvZAArVGbewx4J5jLDkWiePXfIR900B_GyIvnL9HsZSRsFoQBZ57UaZA-OGI3QjPvyc3Ap1b5k0_agfUovnu6PotbZnVImAc-uGSpP3HlLI/s1600/476643_3883119356129_1223198650_33688631_1857939861_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjthV0_yxn5e6lU2v8JFegg-yAUgfvurIZXXvZAArVGbewx4J5jLDkWiePXfIR900B_GyIvnL9HsZSRsFoQBZ57UaZA-OGI3QjPvyc3Ap1b5k0_agfUovnu6PotbZnVImAc-uGSpP3HlLI/s320/476643_3883119356129_1223198650_33688631_1857939861_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandmother's porcelain...attempting some decoupage on it</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Even Gideon has gotten in on the creativity. He has been painting up a storm. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHuYF3_mJAwTMvMSATyZX_JTTJZHnf5iZWPoB2bzUfwP05ChkDCy9iJ11x_r8dzfm4W3BGuCwGcyt-OJLgUKUKbjke1yEk48rZmklFmGYbl7cf1C86vDwjuYdFw8ZupdutP4HmT6u4qbU/s1600/545143_3883126196300_1223198650_33688634_1229711510_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHuYF3_mJAwTMvMSATyZX_JTTJZHnf5iZWPoB2bzUfwP05ChkDCy9iJ11x_r8dzfm4W3BGuCwGcyt-OJLgUKUKbjke1yEk48rZmklFmGYbl7cf1C86vDwjuYdFw8ZupdutP4HmT6u4qbU/s320/545143_3883126196300_1223198650_33688634_1229711510_n.jpg" width="191" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gideon painting a masterpiece</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So, this is my week. Staying busy...I will be gone a few days due to recuperating time, but I will post updates as soon as I am able to. have a blessed week, everyone!!! I will be back soon!!Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-68757333566012361282012-05-07T17:31:00.001-04:002012-05-07T17:31:24.521-04:00The Rosary!I watched this video and thought I would share. It is so difficult, at times, to explain to non-Catholics why we do certain things...The Rosary always makes me feel closer to God. I love how it is explained in this video!<br />
<br /><a href="http://youtu.be/6ceUm2v-zSI" target="_blank">The Rosary Explained</a>Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-3604487124799016752012-05-02T10:27:00.002-04:002012-05-02T10:27:45.446-04:00Autism is NOT a Curse<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_fj8C3cNhYA2L4yaSJOqiEqJGPvrcxdrNOL9fNcMjJKeOez5YfIi_fge5mRfuA3NKVTTB2ZtXnhcM8u1zs-7an8PvkNJ_znLTpUnb4Hpqw3d_MkBEW0OIv_859rP0DIrE612A0wUNdEo/s1600/265359_2249975728559_1223198650_32735715_2408296_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_fj8C3cNhYA2L4yaSJOqiEqJGPvrcxdrNOL9fNcMjJKeOez5YfIi_fge5mRfuA3NKVTTB2ZtXnhcM8u1zs-7an8PvkNJ_znLTpUnb4Hpqw3d_MkBEW0OIv_859rP0DIrE612A0wUNdEo/s320/265359_2249975728559_1223198650_32735715_2408296_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elliott (age 6 & autistic)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
OK...so I have been following a group on facebook about autism. I am LIVID! These people seem to believe that Autism is a curse, causing them great suffering...then the blame game kicks in. "I blame the pharmaceutical companies"..."I blame the doctors"...and my favorite comment thus far, "I hate those God people who think their children are a gift from God...God wouldn't give a child autism", yada, yada, yada...they see their children as "suffering", really? <br />
<br />
Seriously, what is wrong with these parents? My children ARE a gift from God! I have never looked at my children's autism as a curse! I have realized over the last few days that so many parents feel that way, and it's so sad. How can they NOT see the many blessings? Elliott, my 6 year old, is autistic. He smiles more than my non-autistic children do! While he is stimming, flapping his arms, clapping his hands together, he is usually laughing and smiling while doing this. Suffering? I think not. My 18 year old, Kevin, who is also autistic, is the most caring kid in the house! (He did have a difficult childhood, but it is because of misdiagnosis for his first 12 years...that story will be posted soon) Once he was given the proper diagnosis, he THRIVED!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaCXQQKtpwIJrVyMOUjt7Z6Tz5HRQxhgOmTxnbNRrIAKjVW93VLckCVPgdW2BIpbUoNuBruqcpC4JNZL2K-BtVMlW5Hm-QXpBXJK22OKKJtmsutP2UONCHdgWzg8a3Q7zKe3s0UwJdE4E/s1600/405668_2692420788381_1192362214_32648015_381722275_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaCXQQKtpwIJrVyMOUjt7Z6Tz5HRQxhgOmTxnbNRrIAKjVW93VLckCVPgdW2BIpbUoNuBruqcpC4JNZL2K-BtVMlW5Hm-QXpBXJK22OKKJtmsutP2UONCHdgWzg8a3Q7zKe3s0UwJdE4E/s320/405668_2692420788381_1192362214_32648015_381722275_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me & Kevin (18 & autistic)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I find it very disturbing that these "activist parents" spend more time blaming and "walking for a cure" than they do on caring for and understanding their own children. They spend all of their energy fighting with others about how autism is BAD instead of using that energy in finding the strengths in their own children and "going with it"<br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong. I am all about educating people and spreading awareness about Autism, part of the reason I started this blog...but I am seeing so much negative energy being spent on blaming and feeling sorry for themselves and not enough positive energy spent on the children. It burns me!<br />
<br />
Sorry for the vent. My children ARE a gift from God. EVEN my autistic children. Each and every one has a purpose, and we may not know what the purpose is for a long time...but I KNOW God has His arms around them and won't let them fall. Stay positive! Focus on their strengths! Be a parent first, an activist second. God doesn't make mistakes, and he certainly didn't make a mistake when forming my beautiful children!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJGDy09SAPL3zjpg5fGbsCcAs3Rl6w9lSl2mUPXw3sKBk05ZTZ-riSxxqeJz0J7h1NOo_svXuIdsMvYjRNBIH199-8DoUnJP0vzPju5ecC85_VbJ2Aw2LGxsTNAal5MRjTKfX2sdUN4dE/s1600/264419_1960085565070_1330727315_32046496_2941700_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJGDy09SAPL3zjpg5fGbsCcAs3Rl6w9lSl2mUPXw3sKBk05ZTZ-riSxxqeJz0J7h1NOo_svXuIdsMvYjRNBIH199-8DoUnJP0vzPju5ecC85_VbJ2Aw2LGxsTNAal5MRjTKfX2sdUN4dE/s320/264419_1960085565070_1330727315_32046496_2941700_n.jpg" width="191" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elliott stimming in the chair!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-83077636977485501982012-05-01T10:12:00.004-04:002012-05-01T10:12:41.431-04:0030 Days to Go...AlexWhere did the time go? 30 days and my 3rd child from the top graduates high school.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTHT6Hw6Q2ZwmnMsrxX0dpOA56_dyOv9mcSdTbezcRsQwhfqQkSijPpYlN78EJeB5W7MtWPzZQ3AiC7qEaJJTO_jkCDMQXhVmt4TilagQwvoQfk6qEEMz3LZSwl-J3I-r3xlpIIYOF9b8/s1600/30350-graduation-2012-lunch-napkins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTHT6Hw6Q2ZwmnMsrxX0dpOA56_dyOv9mcSdTbezcRsQwhfqQkSijPpYlN78EJeB5W7MtWPzZQ3AiC7qEaJJTO_jkCDMQXhVmt4TilagQwvoQfk6qEEMz3LZSwl-J3I-r3xlpIIYOF9b8/s320/30350-graduation-2012-lunch-napkins.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
So, now is a good time to introduce my son, Alex.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTqs6zctn8oN1XVODlNc0tnsPE3gD_LdfX5GdWFQkJYcP5MlwzbSTMHmIqpTklKsnTPFSjcqkBSvdByxilpwJqQDQlv92z-Ths-gbtb6Nvql1BQhk_zB4Kxiiepovk3PlpEHgoK9NXL_Q/s1600/2306_1106776469292_1223198650_30316766_7193_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTqs6zctn8oN1XVODlNc0tnsPE3gD_LdfX5GdWFQkJYcP5MlwzbSTMHmIqpTklKsnTPFSjcqkBSvdByxilpwJqQDQlv92z-Ths-gbtb6Nvql1BQhk_zB4Kxiiepovk3PlpEHgoK9NXL_Q/s320/2306_1106776469292_1223198650_30316766_7193_n.jpg" width="261" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alex & me 2001</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I always joke that he is my favorite because I had him the easy way...I didn't have to go through the pain of child birth! :) When Eric and I met, Alex was only 7. I have never considered him a step-son...he has been with me, going on 11 years now. He is an amazing young man and has been a fabulous brother to ALL of his siblings!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf54B95IQ7SnWpStUYlEjb6KFgeRPtlu6J_L_n-UVRHP6fatuUGoi8tiqenIQSgnFb-0xQHjjBeM9mZWuJbWDlv3ECa7XKIn-haUXNEbRRIZuT-2TXoZNRyC-EZejFJ1aw0znZzydAiFc/s1600/47209_1472958467197_1330727315_31294078_4082019_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf54B95IQ7SnWpStUYlEjb6KFgeRPtlu6J_L_n-UVRHP6fatuUGoi8tiqenIQSgnFb-0xQHjjBeM9mZWuJbWDlv3ECa7XKIn-haUXNEbRRIZuT-2TXoZNRyC-EZejFJ1aw0znZzydAiFc/s320/47209_1472958467197_1330727315_31294078_4082019_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alex & Little Brother Gideon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
He had a rough road...going from being the only child and the center of attention for 7 years to being stuffed into a BIG instant family, but he handled it well! Within no time he blended in like he had been with us forever. It was difficult for Eric's side of the family to "let go" after having Alex to themselves for so long, but the road got easier with time. <br />
<br />
I am so thankful I have been given the blessing of helping raise such a terrific young man!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7MdKmKpTu6e6faN_rT3yJCpFXHtO86HFYoBmE14kErDKi-3zMR1zZGGuXH4n6LMKfAmBags-wiNcBaXCPpeFTPgCwDXM4EdmFA0HYxSgJpBpDUknzxyrlQjdLwBy7ekLUyv0EN5nFDBk/s1600/197930_1736360492083_1330727315_31803445_7089059_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7MdKmKpTu6e6faN_rT3yJCpFXHtO86HFYoBmE14kErDKi-3zMR1zZGGuXH4n6LMKfAmBags-wiNcBaXCPpeFTPgCwDXM4EdmFA0HYxSgJpBpDUknzxyrlQjdLwBy7ekLUyv0EN5nFDBk/s320/197930_1736360492083_1330727315_31803445_7089059_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">National Honor Society 2011</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Graduation is May 30th...party follows on May 31st at the Atlantic Hotel. (our favorite place to eat)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXE9kfSntn8kSWNZ1HdORtkbauCs50QjCEyetuU5wrzy5kGwEzA8Zcd1oXvhxuRlYown6NymOc57lvN4oMOlev99XfVnw4IvsfV3n19D6PpPSGtbw_LJAxNatQEOgu1ZvyrSeW1fUUnsU/s1600/IMG_1183.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXE9kfSntn8kSWNZ1HdORtkbauCs50QjCEyetuU5wrzy5kGwEzA8Zcd1oXvhxuRlYown6NymOc57lvN4oMOlev99XfVnw4IvsfV3n19D6PpPSGtbw_LJAxNatQEOgu1ZvyrSeW1fUUnsU/s320/IMG_1183.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Atlantic Hotel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLUytMqyFUFKqsThSLzifDNsfXU_SpHivUZtDBmvNu37Vj2k4bUCw5a46m7hkRG0osvGbR4KhvpTre8fCyBMkaFiMWes4tx9ZGuUUPl-hOfMPoHX0AgvkXDJrhqfZKv-O3q90sn_0-YD8/s1600/hotel-atlantic-berlin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLUytMqyFUFKqsThSLzifDNsfXU_SpHivUZtDBmvNu37Vj2k4bUCw5a46m7hkRG0osvGbR4KhvpTre8fCyBMkaFiMWes4tx9ZGuUUPl-hOfMPoHX0AgvkXDJrhqfZKv-O3q90sn_0-YD8/s320/hotel-atlantic-berlin.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Ballroom where we are having Alex's Graduation Party</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-4340522777764636912012-04-30T12:56:00.005-04:002012-04-30T13:06:41.117-04:00Long Overdue Court Update!Well, court went well. We dropped the charges on the young man who broke into our home. His alcohol level was a 2.0 and admitted he had no idea where he was. He had wanted to come and apologize, but his attorney wouldn't allow him to come speak to us. We made it a point to go up to him before the hearing and ask him if he was ok. The look on his face was of GREAT surprise! I guess he was thinking "why on earth would these people be NICE to me after what I did?"<br />
<br />
I prayed about it and just felt in my heart he didn't mean to harm us in any way. He did a stupid thing! That's it! He apologized and thanked us up and down for being so nice to him. When the Prosecutor pulled me aside, he asked me directly what I wanted to see come out of this...he said "the ball is in your court". I told the Prosecutor I didn't want this boy to have a criminal record. The only thing he had ever been in trouble for prior to this was being caught with marijuana. I couldn't see ruining his future over something so trivial. I said "drop the charges". It was done.<br />
<br />
He was charged with intoxication and disorderly conduct, but burglary was dropped. The judge looked at him and said "You are lucky this family didn't own a gun. They would have had every right to shoot once you crossed through their door" The judge was wonderful and told him "I hope you learned your lesson...you don't hold your alcohol well. Moral of the story...DO NOT GET SO DRUNK YOU PASS OUT!"<br />
<br />
I told him a little about my past and asked him to PLEASE think about his future and stay away from drugs, alcohol and stupidity! He promised us he would! I'm sure he will party again...he leaves for college in November. :)<br />
<br />
I think the biggest thing I want him to remember is how there are people in the world who will give you another chance. Not everyone is out for revenge. We could have had the prosecutor throw the book at him, but that wouldn't have helped him in any way. I hope, the next time he picks up a beer, he remembers the kind family who helped him, and he can think about that before he acts. I told him, it's ok to drink...but you don't have to drink yourself sick. Be smart about it! Have fun without hurting others.<br />
<br />
It feels good to know we showed this young man love, compassion and grace in court that day. feels much better than sending him off to jail. I keep praying for him and I know God is watching over him!<br />
<br />
And they say God has no place in a court room...HA!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhQjXyct8ag9p3nhVtSTYfPUsfkyRAHiyWotAzYz6MYCDYVVTZjjKPeoGqiWByVWgLLY_AesgUKICTnawrThhS_DDXtB2bcUAqsjquXwGwh0fDl5_cDXz5Q2Ne_mQWlUSXfSW3ARVyEaI/s1600/love-God-love-others-title.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhQjXyct8ag9p3nhVtSTYfPUsfkyRAHiyWotAzYz6MYCDYVVTZjjKPeoGqiWByVWgLLY_AesgUKICTnawrThhS_DDXtB2bcUAqsjquXwGwh0fDl5_cDXz5Q2Ne_mQWlUSXfSW3ARVyEaI/s320/love-God-love-others-title.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-76803158241304435392012-04-27T06:52:00.003-04:002012-04-27T06:52:35.291-04:00Court Hearing Today!Well, today is the day we go to court to testify against the kid who broke into our home back in February. I say kid because he is only 19. We already know that drugs were involved and knowing what I went through at 19, I wish there was a way to help him. There was a warrant for his arrest prior to his breaking in here, so we still don't know what else he got in trouble for. But, drugs make you do stupid things. My hope is that whatever he is convicted for (besides our break-in) he will learn his lesson and clean himself up! He has his whole life ahead of him and it doesn't need to be spent in jail. Breaks my heart! I am praying for him and his family as we go through this process today and praying for a Judge who wants to help him.<br />
<br />
On another happier note, the 2nd round of the NHL Playoffs begin today! And we now know the Flyers will play the Devils starting Sunday at 3! We SHOULD have this...but it's the Playoffs and you never know what will happen! So, all I can say is GOOOO FLYERS!!!!Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-13134891112294438892012-04-20T12:07:00.002-04:002012-04-20T12:07:33.853-04:00A Change of Pace...NHL PlayoffsSo, most of you who know me KNOW how much my family and I LOVE ice hockey! We are ALL die-hard Philadelphia Flyer's fans! As a kid, I learned hockey from my dad and my brother. We never missed a game and my brother would take me to their practices at the (then) Coliseum in Voorhees, NJ...so, needless to say I grew up LOVING hockey. Now, as an adult, it is still the ONLY sport I can seriously get into. And, of course, my boys have followed suit. Nothing like bonding with a bunch of teenage boys around a good hockey game. And, of course, our littlest hockey player...Gideon. he LOVES hockey and LOVES to play.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOgd4-iBfrn_sYM-cxb7hsQRfpUYOupqw14ncaLkJ0Lfmw_2kdjPnvlMtQc6uTdlT9xU1fnNroHmt_5Sodu4qhdVjGmDt-ujlLINQVWOohqGyst7zv3BwOJ376hQFEeEo-zK6voXYjB98/s1600/222994_2043713972144_1223198650_32493870_5670206_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOgd4-iBfrn_sYM-cxb7hsQRfpUYOupqw14ncaLkJ0Lfmw_2kdjPnvlMtQc6uTdlT9xU1fnNroHmt_5Sodu4qhdVjGmDt-ujlLINQVWOohqGyst7zv3BwOJ376hQFEeEo-zK6voXYjB98/s320/222994_2043713972144_1223198650_32493870_5670206_n.jpg" width="191" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Future Flyer's Goalie!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The older boys shoot on him and he SAVES them. He is not afraid of the puck! At 4, he is sooooo talented. The problem with living on the Eastern Shore of Maryland is that there are NO ice rinks for the boys to play hockey on. The closest one is almost 2 hours away, but it might be worth it to get this little guy skating and playing!<br />
<br />
Anyway, it's playoff season and we are LOVING it! The TV is constantly on hockey at night and the family couldn't enjoy it more! I promise to get back to my regularly scheduled programming of Aspergers and Catholicism...but right now, it's the playoffs...so<br />
<div style="color: orange;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">LET'S GO FLYERS!!!!!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwYD9CketxllYEp4bmPJHu6q1ZV7MBRIvZAmZCn6tRPe-Jce835L8wBBW60tXnXrKHnxFIpEqWvPpOZOqoJmtu6mlIna0aFV5D0Xmr5W7sMiOEMhZw6vxI7PqX44v4KqSgMJ7Q_dRCnVA/s1600/Fly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwYD9CketxllYEp4bmPJHu6q1ZV7MBRIvZAmZCn6tRPe-Jce835L8wBBW60tXnXrKHnxFIpEqWvPpOZOqoJmtu6mlIna0aFV5D0Xmr5W7sMiOEMhZw6vxI7PqX44v4KqSgMJ7Q_dRCnVA/s320/Fly.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-10066549609222401522012-04-11T12:03:00.001-04:002012-04-11T12:03:07.831-04:00We Are Home Owners!WE GOT OUR NEW HOUSE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br />
<br />
Thank you, God! Answered prayer, for sure! We totally left it in God's hands, and the owner accepted our offer. I feel confidant God wants this for us!<br />
<br />
I am soooooooooooooo excited!! We have official access to our new home July 1st. Now, let the de-cluttering and packing begin!<br />
<br />
WOOT!!!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQXAS-MldEb74SDWIq3hUyV6D8mNlxbhN3vZs0YVsKWyvo0y3l3oQ96ZJfJh-6JO7Yg_XcAG905zU2N3Wu3sZRmxey2rD_binDgJvYVVWVK81ik0NDuoL2LtiCVTF708Aj-VLTyldtXsw/s1600/555238_3590345516966_1223198650_33557110_1464893230_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQXAS-MldEb74SDWIq3hUyV6D8mNlxbhN3vZs0YVsKWyvo0y3l3oQ96ZJfJh-6JO7Yg_XcAG905zU2N3Wu3sZRmxey2rD_binDgJvYVVWVK81ik0NDuoL2LtiCVTF708Aj-VLTyldtXsw/s320/555238_3590345516966_1223198650_33557110_1464893230_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Belardo Homestead!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-58972045908129095692012-04-10T17:47:00.001-04:002012-04-10T17:47:51.265-04:00We Shouldn't QuestionHow hard it is sometimes to have a logical mind that likes to over think things. Someone posted on "My Story" and it got me thinking how hard it is to have faith, at times.<br />
<br />
My brain wanders...it's all part of the whole Aspergers thing. How can ONE major religion be right and the rest of the religions be wrong? Isn't it possible God showed himself to people in different regions in different forms? <br />
<br />
The Baha'i Faith might be onto something. (if I wasn't Catholic...this would be my next choice of religion)<br />
<br />
They basically believe that:<br />
<br />
"Throughout history, God has revealed Himself to humanity through a
series of divine Messengers, whose teachings guide and educate us and
provide the basis for the advancement of human society. These Messengers
have included Abraham, Krishna, Zoroaster, Moses, Buddha, Jesus, and
Muhammad. Their religions come from the same Source and are in essence
successive chapters of one religion from God."<br />
<br />
This just makes sense to me. I have always felt that there is ONE God, shown to many people in different ways and forms. It makes it hard for me to stay focused on MY Faith. But, that's where that FAITH word comes into play. Even if things don't make sense...we ALL must rely on our Faith.<br />
<br />
Pray for me. I sometimes fall away, doubting all that I am doing. Am I right and everyone else wrong? Is my God different from YOUR God? Are ALL the other Religions going to fall away when MY God reveals Himself to everyone else?<br />
<br />
UGH...my brain needs to settle down today! TOO MUCH THINKING!!!! :)<br />
<br />
Off to do my reading and my prayers!Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-10377213432761257212012-04-08T10:37:00.000-04:002012-04-08T10:37:04.260-04:00Happy EasterHappy Easter to ALL my family and friends!<br />
<br />
HE IS RISEN!<br />
<br />
Most wonderful day of the year!<br />
<br />
Little ones have their Easter baskets and big kids have their chocolate. Mom gets to cook the traditional ham later today...nice family day! Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<br />Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-10742774842451244652012-03-31T11:23:00.002-04:002012-03-31T11:23:27.839-04:00Saturday CrazinessWell, yesterday Emma, Bo, Kevin and I went to the Humane Society to pick up Meredith. We got there and went in to see the older cats and when Kevin knelt down to pet Meredith, here comes this little gray cat. He jumped on Kevin's lap, climbed up to his shoulder, rested his head on him and began to purr. Kevin looked at me and said, "this is our new cat!"...after looking for a while, there was no doubt he had picked US. So, we left Meredith behind and brought home Dusty. His name has been changed to "Pollock, the Warrior Cat"...my Dad is Polish and said his name had to be Pollock. The kids fought with him for days saying it was a bad name. But, now, it looks like it's stuck. Poor cat! He is a bit nervous, exploring his new surroundings. He has been meowing a lot, but I am thinking he is probably missing his feline companions. He ended up sleeping between Eric and I last night, until Gideon jumped in our bed sometime during the night and scared him off! LOL<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJMQWHl7v5kyHUqFuzKtTsd936NU_lfxFuULByvaF4sN1y1kbXYMZpCQiBsQynoQGkZaCC6o4Hp04dyqhMgTqzcgY_B72KY6K4k2FdD9hMnrqWl7TLfPoqYU1evpVXKVqs0rk-RyK5Zig/s1600/MD33.17758906-3-pn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJMQWHl7v5kyHUqFuzKtTsd936NU_lfxFuULByvaF4sN1y1kbXYMZpCQiBsQynoQGkZaCC6o4Hp04dyqhMgTqzcgY_B72KY6K4k2FdD9hMnrqWl7TLfPoqYU1evpVXKVqs0rk-RyK5Zig/s1600/MD33.17758906-3-pn.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pollock, The Warrior Cat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Today I am re-potting my veggies. I planted seeds in an indoor greenhouse last weekend and in one week, they have outgrown their little habitat. I am going to put them in bigger pots, in case we move, I don't want to have to dig them up from the ground! Here is what they look like in just one week's time...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikEbZyAs82T36_4wFZ_S6iRBZivLgbkM24cldNfUB79Hr63oUYOQowcsP03ZgkKYISMZPhGaGxOUDZi5G5amB2_MvjqqcaljnRY7Dh57_NyuNXjzDdn64TgKHi3EDXh-lOiqeesmqRWjI/s1600/456289_3551683870449_1223198650_33537082_1414986420_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikEbZyAs82T36_4wFZ_S6iRBZivLgbkM24cldNfUB79Hr63oUYOQowcsP03ZgkKYISMZPhGaGxOUDZi5G5amB2_MvjqqcaljnRY7Dh57_NyuNXjzDdn64TgKHi3EDXh-lOiqeesmqRWjI/s320/456289_3551683870449_1223198650_33537082_1414986420_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Veggies...1 week old</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So, that's my update. Cleaning, re-potting and posting some more stuff on eBay. The de-clutter process is in full swing! 2 more days until we find out about the new house! Aaaaaak!Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-66093302948394915252012-03-30T11:08:00.001-04:002012-03-30T11:08:12.911-04:00A Day in The Life...Well, yesterday was upsetting and exciting, all in one...<br />
<br />
First, I was off to the dentist, and what is only a 3 minute drive, turned into a disaster. My car was t-boned. I must say...thank God for Volvo's. My awesome "soccer-mom-mobile" only suffered minor damage to my rear driver's side door. Now, the other car is a different story. Her entire driver's side front was demolished. Stuff leaking everywhere...terrible. My first thought was she had to be hurt. She hit me HARD! I jumped out of my car and ran over there, with First Aid certification card, in hand, just in case...but, thankfully, she was unharmed. But, oh the guilt! She was so sweet, though and after the police came and we exchanged information, we hugged, I cried and we both went on our way. (her car had to be towed, mine drove away just fine) Insurance covers it all (thank God for that, too) so all is well, but boy, did it shake me up. Again, I repeat...BUY A VOLVO! I am amazed at how well my car handled the crash! It's an '89, but I am so grateful for my big box! I will forever own a Volvo!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaGXSMQ1BACxU_CyJ0eGDyLHVftymRzvrADh5G3JfjfxfulrNMdN9V3g092qJemO1tFAo4TmTAIjCZ_BXYohZ5TYHkzIcxhoIQEbRwYRrTuwqGPX9BEUv6XvnLFGKxacPnNmU6nO4W7QY/s1600/1989-Volvo-740-Turbo-Wagon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaGXSMQ1BACxU_CyJ0eGDyLHVftymRzvrADh5G3JfjfxfulrNMdN9V3g092qJemO1tFAo4TmTAIjCZ_BXYohZ5TYHkzIcxhoIQEbRwYRrTuwqGPX9BEUv6XvnLFGKxacPnNmU6nO4W7QY/s320/1989-Volvo-740-Turbo-Wagon.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Great start to the day...<br />
<br />
BUT, what started out bad, ended awesome! Remember the house in my last blog? Well, we put a contract on it yesterday. The owner is meeting with his realtor on Monday (he already has the contract) and we are pretty sure he is going to sign! PRAYING we finally got our farm!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicXRZ7zFAjbsHwFoZTe65TJlcCqCGhitD9z0-shyphenhyphenNseEYXkbMr2dbjO66mp3_Et6dXI0QZ7uAU0BSfCh0N5FTi2EkHUgeBT3WyDubVr9HoaMtGCtye0-ILtKs8jGOjbgTHGGaRhCqoRvI/s1600/469824_3545864804976_1223198650_33534642_418188927_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicXRZ7zFAjbsHwFoZTe65TJlcCqCGhitD9z0-shyphenhyphenNseEYXkbMr2dbjO66mp3_Et6dXI0QZ7uAU0BSfCh0N5FTi2EkHUgeBT3WyDubVr9HoaMtGCtye0-ILtKs8jGOjbgTHGGaRhCqoRvI/s320/469824_3545864804976_1223198650_33534642_418188927_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The right side of the house</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib5CcBkYuj0aCBl9pJ9uY9ZhEJ2u2hcLJUKVNCArb5YVG9MJxIYlmP4uTVIgcKaEzsfdSTMmIOVWdKvY7hhXdtcFC-HdRpEEPu2qLG5FJVZy-2ZFoOkSo1L34rYW16IrvCJc79BuaQ5CM/s1600/457344_3545872565170_1223198650_33534646_97289983_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib5CcBkYuj0aCBl9pJ9uY9ZhEJ2u2hcLJUKVNCArb5YVG9MJxIYlmP4uTVIgcKaEzsfdSTMmIOVWdKvY7hhXdtcFC-HdRpEEPu2qLG5FJVZy-2ZFoOkSo1L34rYW16IrvCJc79BuaQ5CM/s320/457344_3545872565170_1223198650_33534646_97289983_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Stable</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrAi1xazORIowycgthk-_T_weTeVPa-0mzCroQ_r2ncvCuNmLSVBVDLm4fEMBKSBp71_jVTc6_8ZPB6i8g24g9M6cdfKjFMisURoD0nhSNkuJJt9F_edNf-8YqZLLBmCQRH9LuiuRb66k/s1600/464461_3545873845202_1223198650_33534648_1227814545_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrAi1xazORIowycgthk-_T_weTeVPa-0mzCroQ_r2ncvCuNmLSVBVDLm4fEMBKSBp71_jVTc6_8ZPB6i8g24g9M6cdfKjFMisURoD0nhSNkuJJt9F_edNf-8YqZLLBmCQRH9LuiuRb66k/s320/464461_3545873845202_1223198650_33534648_1227814545_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The backyard</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Miss Meredith comes home today. The kids are fighting over a new name for her because they aren't thrilled with Meredith (and quite frankly, neither am I) Dad wants to name her Polock (being she is coming into a Polish family...he somehow thinks this is funny and the kids are arguing with him) Bo and Kevin have some video game name...I don't even know how to SPELL the name...it's something like Deva-kitty. (named after Devakin sp?) Emma wants to name her Nala (after the female lion in The Lion King) I have a funny feeling she will have numerous names for a while. Poor thing. She has NO idea what her immediate future is going to be like, as she sits comfortably at the Humane Society.<br />
<br />
And, last but not least, my son, Bo, turns 14 today! He asked me to pick him up at 12:30 from school today to start the celebration. I think I will! :) <br />
<br />
Happy Birthday Bo!!!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj28jhjRF2FZXfXAGZyxjtVa_MfhZA5BekHM6FRAPcxV8uicv1TTMfdElGNLBgkK940Na_4EZTeIL-9tKaK5NifjMRFz4LcRYigcwqp515k_RMEKJF2M5d3rVU3JLZUVlT81GZG3ffpmT8/s1600/30837_1465117147585_1223198650_31324779_6626318_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj28jhjRF2FZXfXAGZyxjtVa_MfhZA5BekHM6FRAPcxV8uicv1TTMfdElGNLBgkK940Na_4EZTeIL-9tKaK5NifjMRFz4LcRYigcwqp515k_RMEKJF2M5d3rVU3JLZUVlT81GZG3ffpmT8/s320/30837_1465117147585_1223198650_31324779_6626318_n.jpg" width="251" /></a></div>
<br />Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-90681854329205722822012-03-28T10:26:00.001-04:002012-03-28T10:26:26.664-04:00Neglectful BloggerWhat a busy week it has been so far. I feel like I have been MIA for a while. Eric was home sick all last week, and finally went back to work this past Monday after fighting a bad chest cold. It made its' rounds with the kids, too. Thankfully, it seems to be gone, now.<br />
<br />
We didn't get the house we initially tried to get, but we have another possibility in the works. We'll see what happens. It is HUGE and out in the country with an acre of cleared land. (my veggies would grow great there! LOL)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuB280XeLnv-0oUZGsLfg5wf78NyzIpha-N1HfrkaV4o05q6ZYz5Zsc4fGZsa94ks56wxVhDUG_W_vazwR6CQCYdStrcfmgZdXQ68LKJBEDkdH5l8xxF5A1u_BMC0RG1UD-20Qkbzt034/s1600/20110618135455303509000000-o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuB280XeLnv-0oUZGsLfg5wf78NyzIpha-N1HfrkaV4o05q6ZYz5Zsc4fGZsa94ks56wxVhDUG_W_vazwR6CQCYdStrcfmgZdXQ68LKJBEDkdH5l8xxF5A1u_BMC0RG1UD-20Qkbzt034/s320/20110618135455303509000000-o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">House Hunting...Whaleyville, MD</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I am actually more excited about this one then the other home we looked at. It has personality!! <br />
<br />
Well, Emma has been looking at attending Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic School. She is so social. She doesn't mind home school, but I know she would be happier with friends around. We went and toured the school on Monday and she fell in love with it. If we can make the numbers work, we will consider it. It's a fabulous school!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_DlnQ1Ua0UfyXfWOiEmKlg9f_X24GKyrX6ZkN5cC1uxtmZ9yU9f7wVORo2X4XQn66vZMqF1oo1TVgswYogdMxXSrCEREMEAIcaO_d2PX0Geaoe-iVuTEw2soxr5vrhBtv8Yc3A73yKIA/s1600/pic_campus01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_DlnQ1Ua0UfyXfWOiEmKlg9f_X24GKyrX6ZkN5cC1uxtmZ9yU9f7wVORo2X4XQn66vZMqF1oo1TVgswYogdMxXSrCEREMEAIcaO_d2PX0Geaoe-iVuTEw2soxr5vrhBtv8Yc3A73yKIA/s1600/pic_campus01.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic School</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We have a new addition coming into our family on Friday...meet Meredith!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUoTXOU6Q0Pso8D3z-T01fxWyEkPb1cLvf7ab6yyRAzPoEXoGQJ3FokF8bml5eBbQwGsvMjEiiKQhnapsGI1XAMuuMpBPMihvU4R9KS3yTRkbv4fCNRmHq7yJsZuLn7kBQr8-tvmGNE44/s1600/530668_3528230684134_1223198650_33526271_1719229841_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUoTXOU6Q0Pso8D3z-T01fxWyEkPb1cLvf7ab6yyRAzPoEXoGQJ3FokF8bml5eBbQwGsvMjEiiKQhnapsGI1XAMuuMpBPMihvU4R9KS3yTRkbv4fCNRmHq7yJsZuLn7kBQr8-tvmGNE44/s320/530668_3528230684134_1223198650_33526271_1719229841_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meredith, the cat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I found her at the Humane Society. She is 3 years old and the sweetest little thing in the world. She needs a good grooming, and will be beautiful when we finish with her! The kids are so excited! (Mommy is too)<br />
<br />
And, last but not least, I ordered Gideon's Kindergarten curriculum this week and it will be arriving UPS today! I can't wait to get started with him. We use Seton Home Study and after completing the Bob Jones Pre-K program with him, I felt he was ready. He is a year ahead of himself...and that's without pushing him. He LOVES doing school work, and it's never a fight.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6nte0PFJJhWALE_fVTMkSRH2kr2tiaUXHTKfuNdACXpIRFAr6uYseMkLGJ9WTq0HlWYDJD0NCkK0Ptw1PnJQf-K-5UTyVDkx20jljXo6TAueB5hwkhn7ToHAWyxbGbLhF75BCW9UIxuI/s1600/DSC_0039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6nte0PFJJhWALE_fVTMkSRH2kr2tiaUXHTKfuNdACXpIRFAr6uYseMkLGJ9WTq0HlWYDJD0NCkK0Ptw1PnJQf-K-5UTyVDkx20jljXo6TAueB5hwkhn7ToHAWyxbGbLhF75BCW9UIxuI/s320/DSC_0039.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gideon...4 years old</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So, that's my update. I won't stay away so long from now on. Just been a crazy week! :)Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-48963402921176706032012-03-24T18:17:00.001-04:002012-03-24T18:17:36.155-04:00The Modest Catholic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg82MG0Fzj8DIrlnV6y3G0aTbxErpQZGokO_gJkETLzKgZD_PweL6xyQ6naPLx4fyqTJcP0WNIWFztYcXRjUZTp7w4bCs-weyeGSdI9HWP19dWtKssKUrWOkFKHcqmtOHqsTgLDep43SjM/s1600/virgin-mary-wallpaper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg82MG0Fzj8DIrlnV6y3G0aTbxErpQZGokO_gJkETLzKgZD_PweL6xyQ6naPLx4fyqTJcP0WNIWFztYcXRjUZTp7w4bCs-weyeGSdI9HWP19dWtKssKUrWOkFKHcqmtOHqsTgLDep43SjM/s320/virgin-mary-wallpaper.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So, a while back I had joined a yahoo group of women who were Catholic and head covered. I thought it would be nice to join a group to help me on my journey. Well, I have to tell you, it started off ok, but I most definitely didn't fit in. I am trying to live a more modest life, but I don't live on an Amish farm... I have a TV with cable, I have a computer, a cell phone, and oh my...my children watch Nick Jr! As much as I wish I could wear dresses 24/7, sometimes it's just not possible. But, does this make me any LESS modest? I don't think so. The thing that made me leave the group was how I was humiliated for having a facebook page. I was told facebook is evil with too many temptations (ex-boyfriends, etc) and inappropriate conversations...at first they made me feel quite low. But it didn't take long for me to realize this was NOT the group for me.<br />
<br />
Funny enough, last night Eric and I watched a documentary on NatGeo (ooooh, I watched TV, my bad) on Hasidism. The show followed individuals and families who lived in the Hasidic community. From marriage, to having children...one man went from a very strong Roman Catholic family where he was one of 10 children who found his calling as a Hasidic jew. (beautiful people, by the way) Towards the end of the program, one of the Rabbi's made a plea that Hasidism doesn't need to live so far away from the real world. There are so many opportunities to be a witness to people through social media, TV, even something as simple as your cell phone. I agree with this 100%...<br />
<br />
As a Roman Catholic, who wants to live more modestly, to give up all the "wordly things" may be great for keeping ME on the straight and narrow, but what about others? If we separate ourselves from the world, who can we witness to? Of course Facebook could be bad...but what if you use it for good? Think about all the people who read what you write everyday. Even if they read it and say to themselves "there she goes...talking all that religious mumbo jumbo again"...maybe, just maybe, I have planted a seed?! You never know the people you may touch with your words, thoughts and actions.<br />
<br />
I left that group that made me feel "less than worthy" and decided to start my own yahoo group. Guess it's possible no one will join, but maybe for the few that do, I will find some other catholic women who feel the way I do. Modesty, head covering and living a bit more traditional, does NOT mean giving up everything in the "real world"...to me it means being a witness to the "real world"!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/modestcatholics/" target="_blank">Modest Catholics</a>Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-36504205606270722662012-03-21T20:50:00.001-04:002012-03-21T20:50:38.102-04:00Introducing Another Kid...BoBack to my kid intros...<br />
<br />
Francis William, aka "Bo", born March 30th, 1998 (14 yrs old in 9 days)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh_TQb_jeUlS3sX3x3ypAau8g_vmj4nxyhe-8jb26lnX9L9Yd96yNerGb92ikdS2pWbkK6W8Gj65i8SKnQSLavtZIQZ8eXsl3CkKvwO1YgcaV7Zq3GH7sWs_N13bPks5M_JOUfkeOgQCA/s1600/420207_3356006738643_1223198650_33444202_1639673742_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh_TQb_jeUlS3sX3x3ypAau8g_vmj4nxyhe-8jb26lnX9L9Yd96yNerGb92ikdS2pWbkK6W8Gj65i8SKnQSLavtZIQZ8eXsl3CkKvwO1YgcaV7Zq3GH7sWs_N13bPks5M_JOUfkeOgQCA/s320/420207_3356006738643_1223198650_33444202_1639673742_n.jpg" width="191" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bo on his way to NJHS Banquet Feb 2012</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Bo, Bo, Bo...child number 4<br />
<br />
Bo is THE family clown. His personality is amazing. He is the social one of the bunch, always making people laugh with his silliness.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4L1Qxp56SHIfuTDnp_UNqHUzl1zcsRY2OgdV9nMWVddL-UUp46AIwlzo94mFeDoXZL5llYWhFTPfa47pt_5tHJD6-Mfcsv7-u8MSOnN9SkGDnAzW6lfCHSGsqERGOJGbaDL_qvRdZPbk/s1600/2306_1109288852100_1223198650_30324359_9045_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4L1Qxp56SHIfuTDnp_UNqHUzl1zcsRY2OgdV9nMWVddL-UUp46AIwlzo94mFeDoXZL5llYWhFTPfa47pt_5tHJD6-Mfcsv7-u8MSOnN9SkGDnAzW6lfCHSGsqERGOJGbaDL_qvRdZPbk/s320/2306_1109288852100_1223198650_30324359_9045_n.jpg" width="228" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Valentine Cards he made to give out in 4th grade (maybe 5th grade?)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Yet, he is in National Junior Honor Society for his straight A's and good attitude in school. He plays clarinet in the middle school band (he is an 8th grader) and will continue playing in high school next year. He played soccer when he was younger with Ryan and Emmalee, but he never really took it seriously. He did it for the fun of it all.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixmgd5ARIqXkOdTwVkWNEQxQ-83gTnIuMR_ARHIG1oVx3L6LUeao2MQli3LOOtl182p2SMWxDPwGcODTCbuo4bi3zbN-JL_5NWPhCG3z5XIoiGqpPcMsKLKiWZYMV0yjxl7SpvnDH-5pM/s1600/2051_1099565169014_1223198650_30297007_5401_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixmgd5ARIqXkOdTwVkWNEQxQ-83gTnIuMR_ARHIG1oVx3L6LUeao2MQli3LOOtl182p2SMWxDPwGcODTCbuo4bi3zbN-JL_5NWPhCG3z5XIoiGqpPcMsKLKiWZYMV0yjxl7SpvnDH-5pM/s320/2051_1099565169014_1223198650_30297007_5401_n.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bo the goalie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Bo is usually happy-go-lucky, but seriously do NOT make him angry. (he is scary when he's mad) Like all my children, he is sensitive and his feelings do get hurt very easily. He is a good brother, especially to Kevin. Him and Kevin have always had a special bond...Bo has always been understanding of Kevin's feelings and needs. They have a fabulous friendship.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLIdZUwe_vRLHEN4lX6wI7RIkgUSz7oBB1yXno1ocmFYgbvL8rpsOehdlbPstT9v4i7Kwf0pmr49dIrkepXs2Gi0JtPVLB5KP65mdwWIoCdNZNan9DufvYTSRQoQJEBpcqB_xCPZICJ6s/s1600/249699_2119927197427_1223198650_32596764_3740048_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLIdZUwe_vRLHEN4lX6wI7RIkgUSz7oBB1yXno1ocmFYgbvL8rpsOehdlbPstT9v4i7Kwf0pmr49dIrkepXs2Gi0JtPVLB5KP65mdwWIoCdNZNan9DufvYTSRQoQJEBpcqB_xCPZICJ6s/s320/249699_2119927197427_1223198650_32596764_3740048_n.jpg" width="218" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bo & Kevin at Assateague Island, Summer 2011</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Bo has been a great companion and a wonderful son over the years and continues to make me very proud!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimLRmkTNA34iJoiI6DwrXW_FsMYrtqLygmMeTOUyVnKME877Kzfgz0f8_vsxEmpIvwoPKC9l7WTNOLtJvCWSsU8zNCw6Uj_bkpw7Zm9uhhF_pa-od3aHxWUszlZze3pu5kVP7L9EPTa6E/s1600/10624_1269941708321_1223198650_30814178_4707711_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimLRmkTNA34iJoiI6DwrXW_FsMYrtqLygmMeTOUyVnKME877Kzfgz0f8_vsxEmpIvwoPKC9l7WTNOLtJvCWSsU8zNCw6Uj_bkpw7Zm9uhhF_pa-od3aHxWUszlZze3pu5kVP7L9EPTa6E/s320/10624_1269941708321_1223198650_30814178_4707711_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me & Bo at the Haunted House, Wildwood, NJ</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuod-yGRVsDr9AnTpsQeFwLpa0wAvN7HDHdLyOmiEyMFBxeKTvZq4HgHSqSqG40eWTs18TVEDKbfWMpRY6qOx0a4HCcy7OrIQhq6SdWKR6Dbc5Z3BoJWRVoz7uW_FIxVvp9QsqYuLSSNc/s1600/25835_1399596909620_1223198650_31159618_2842306_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuod-yGRVsDr9AnTpsQeFwLpa0wAvN7HDHdLyOmiEyMFBxeKTvZq4HgHSqSqG40eWTs18TVEDKbfWMpRY6qOx0a4HCcy7OrIQhq6SdWKR6Dbc5Z3BoJWRVoz7uW_FIxVvp9QsqYuLSSNc/s320/25835_1399596909620_1223198650_31159618_2842306_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me (pregnant with Elliott) & Bo at soccer</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih5zForYXw_9sImJK91cWT-FVSuKcegUrDw41BLMni3y-J9wkYfK1VfvnEW-ENu-nYiz4hVqTFbIYUju-0E7agAY7yElnmxdFldRJYtS-zY9dtDg6_ATjMRUVVTZzILq_g9HPCmzRLR-o/s1600/30837_1465117147585_1223198650_31324779_6626318_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih5zForYXw_9sImJK91cWT-FVSuKcegUrDw41BLMni3y-J9wkYfK1VfvnEW-ENu-nYiz4hVqTFbIYUju-0E7agAY7yElnmxdFldRJYtS-zY9dtDg6_ATjMRUVVTZzILq_g9HPCmzRLR-o/s320/30837_1465117147585_1223198650_31324779_6626318_n.jpg" width="251" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bo 2011 (7th grade)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFZBEotMu1LeyRnRNtCHHgh-zOAOzkpvnWTyZQGVSMHBpWkuMhK29i9xhGB92j_Rti975H7tb63guIDbD63pm3GSm2zfalRNx2HkomZ5wVfYvlB0Cw8DVGCvTviUCAQvOiilFqlB8VMTY/s1600/246599_2119796234153_1223198650_32596590_5269254_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFZBEotMu1LeyRnRNtCHHgh-zOAOzkpvnWTyZQGVSMHBpWkuMhK29i9xhGB92j_Rti975H7tb63guIDbD63pm3GSm2zfalRNx2HkomZ5wVfYvlB0Cw8DVGCvTviUCAQvOiilFqlB8VMTY/s320/246599_2119796234153_1223198650_32596590_5269254_n.jpg" width="232" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bo Should Have Paid Attention to the Sign</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-27065753132898704072012-03-20T12:16:00.004-04:002012-03-20T12:16:38.900-04:00So Much For GraceIt makes me sad to think there are still fellow Christians who believe Catholics are not true Christians. I have purchased many head coverings over the past several months, as I feel I have been called to cover. (haven't figured out why yet, but the tug was very strong...too strong to ignore) I have purchased head coverings from Mennonites, Protestants and I even have an Islamic woman I shop from who now refers to me as her "Catholic Sister"...<br />
<br />
One particular shop I have enjoyed is called Garlands of Grace. I have recommended her items to fellow Catholics and Protestants, alike. Well, no more. She recently posted on her facebook page something that really bothered me. It says,<br />
<br />
"In response to several ladies who have wondered and many others who have presumed, I am compelled to share:<span style="font-size: small;"> </span>Garlands of Grace in NOT a Catholic run business. I am burdened for
all who stand with the Catholic Church and would plead with you to come
out and believe the Word of God.<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">"This is the stone which was
set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.
Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name
under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." Acts 4:11-12"</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">REALLY? She is BURDENED for all who stand with the Catholic Church? Now, if this were her personal opinion, so be it. But, she made this public on her BUSINESS profile. I think it is very sad to think there are those who feel this way. I love ALL my Christian sisters, regardless of their denomination. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">So, needless to say, so much for grace. I will NOT be purchasing anything from her anymore and will no longer recommend her items. I'm sure her business will go on with or without me. There is now a new facebook page for <a href="http://www.facebook.com/CatholicCoverings" target="_blank">Catholic Coverings.</a></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">Everything happens for a reason, and I am happy to have found some fellow Catholic sites to shop from. </span></span>Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-3444477648791986872012-03-15T09:11:00.000-04:002012-03-15T09:11:07.827-04:00Getting Rid of the StainsThis was today's reflection from the daily readings... <br />
<br />
If we've fallen into sexual sin, Satan may have robbed us of good
relationships, self-respect, innocence, or peace of mind. We can repent,
confess our sins, despoil him, and get back what we've lost to sin. We
can feel as pure and innocent as when we were little children. We can
get rid of guilt and regain peace. Knock the weapons out of Satan's hand
and repossess all your stolen property. In Jesus' name, quickly crush
Satan under your feet (Rm 16:20).<br />
<br />
Did you know that by having premarital sex (even if you are married to that person NOW) causes problems? Most people nowadays see sex as something we just do...it's widely accepted. Turn on the TV and a woman is dressed like she's on the prowl. Billboards on the side of the road show men and women barely dressed. Even the magazines you see when standing in line at the check out counter show pictures of women looking like they WANT sex. How can we NOT think sex, even casual sex and non-marital sex isn't ok? Society tells us it's just fine!<br />
<br />
But, guess what? It's NOT God's design for us...NOT his plan.<br />
<br />
Sex is something I have always seen as "dirty and bad"...men use women for sex, for their own pleasure, ONLY...women are just play things. This is exactly how I have grown up believing. Why? Because I didn't follow God's plan. From my first experience after being raped at 14 years old, I saw sex as something us women HAVE to do to get a guy and keep them happy. Give them sex, and they will love you back. WRONG!!!! Sex is something you save for the person you will spend the rest of your life with. God gave us a wonderful gift to share in marriage. When we misuse this gift outside of marriage, it leaves scars on us that seem to never go away. You become a part of that person, no matter how many, because God says once you have sex with someone, you become one. If this is true...I have become "one" with many and now I am left with feeling used and feeling guilty about all my sexual sin. <br />
<br />
BUT, God WANTS me to ditch these feelings. There is hope. I am learning to let go of the guilt. Guilt is from Satan...Satan wants us to hold on to all those horrible feelings because, by doing so, we stay further away from God.<br />
<br />
I now spend my mornings talking to God. I am studying and praying and working through all of these horrible feelings, and in doing so, I am feeling CLOSER to God. I'm stained...but God wants me to get as close to Him as possible. My prayer time is like using Tide with Bleach...LOL. Getting rid of all the horrible stains, one wash load at a time.<br />
<br />
I am trying desperately to teach my children the right things where sex is concerned, but in today's society, it is so hard. They look at me like I'm nuts. But, I am planting the seed, with hopes that when decision time comes, they may do the right thing. All I can do is pray...and if they think I am being "too old fashioned"...so be it.Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-84113625129960937012012-03-13T13:23:00.001-04:002012-03-13T13:23:57.839-04:00Misconceptions About Catholics & HeavenI am asked all the time about how Catholics get to Heaven. There are so many misconceptions that Catholics believe you get to Heaven by doing good works, etc. Guess what peeps...you are all wrong!<br />
<br />
I found a wonderful explanation on CatholicAnswers.com that may help a non-Catholic understand exactly what Catholics believe...<br />
<br />
The <span class="itxtrst itxtrstspan itxthookspan" id="itxthook0w0" style="background: transparent; color: darkgreen; font-size: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">teaching</span>
is basically that any person who is baptized in a Christian faith, who
tries to be a good person, and feels guilt when they fail, goes to
confession, and receives the Eucharist and other Sacraments will go to
heaven, eventually. Catholics are taught that very few people go
directly to heaven when they die, -that is a privilege reserved for only
the most saintly people, someone like Mother Teresa for example. Most
Catholics will go to Purgatory before going to heaven. The idea is that
only a perfect soul can be admitted to heaven, as nothing imperfect can
exist in the presence of Almighty God. There are a lot of different
ideas about what exactly Purgatory is, but basically it's a place the
soul goes to be cleansed from all the effects of sin and made perfect. <br />
<br />
Catholics
believe that anyone who dies with no mortal sin on their soul will go
to heaven, eventually. If there are still imperfections and venial sins,
these will need to be cleansed in purgatory, but there are only two
destinations: heaven or hell, and the only determining factor is if you
die in a state of mortal sin or in a state of grace. If you die in a
state of grace, you will go to heaven, with or without the purgatory, if
necessary. The leading a good life, praying, frequenting the
Sacraments, etc. are all preparation for that last battle when you are
dying and the devil is putting forth all his efforts: you need all the
strength and grace that you can muster, with God's help, to face that
final battle. Bottom line? Catholics believe you get to heaven by the
grace of God given you through His Son, Jesus Christ - it is only
through His Strength, and His Grace, that you will make it through this
life, and the final battle to arrive victorious. Baptism is the
necessary groundwork for this life long battle.<br />
<br />
<b>What about the rapture? </b><br />
<br />
The Catholic Church from the very beginning has understood and professed
that Jesus Christ will return at the end of time.<br />
As for the "rapture", there is no universal agreement among
Protestant Churches on this subject. In fact, they've got so many variations
on that issue, that you can't find agreement even amongst those who profess
a rapture.<br />
The Catholic Church rejects the heresy that Christ will "rapture" the
Church prior to the Second Coming. This doctrine is a relatively new invention
that dates back to the early to mid 1800's. It is based on a complete misreading
of scripture and has no historical roots in Catholicism or Protestantism. <br />
That said; the Church believes what Scripture actually teaches. That is,
at the end of time Christ will return. At that time, the dead in Christ
shall be raised and those Christians still living will be transformed in
the "twinkling of an eye". Immediately following this event there
will be the last judgment. Now if you want to call the transformation
of the living, at the time of the resurrection of dead, a rapture, that's
fine. But the term isn't found anywhere in Scripture or in the writings
of the Early Church.<br />
<br />
<blockquote>
<b>Will there be a period of tribulation and persecution prior to the
end?</b> <br />
</blockquote>
Scripture seems to imply it, as does Church teaching, but the seven
year period some Protestants get hung up on, may well have already been
fulfilled just prior to 70 AD.<br />
The bottom line is this; since the beginning, the Church has faced various
times of persecution and tribulation. It is said, in the last century
more Christians were put to death for their faith than in the previous
19 centuries put together. So idea that Christ is going to take His Church
out of the world to spare them persecution is not only unbiblical, it's
unhistoric.<br />
<br />
<br />Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605605263663800256.post-31449083344682724332012-03-12T13:42:00.002-04:002012-03-12T13:42:21.339-04:00Give it to GodWhen we humble ourselves, we open the door to God and to healing, for
the Lord "is stern with the arrogant but to the humble He shows
kindness"<br />
<br />
So hard to do...<br />
<br />
The deeper I read, the more I am being opened up to the fact that I am far from humble and extremely prideful. NOT what God wants me to be. I found myself preaching to my husband yesterday and I think, in a sense, I was outwardly preaching to myself.<br />
<br />
Eric worked all weekend on our mortgage application, going through old bills and finances. His stress level was through the roof, understandably so. He came out, sat down in the chair on the porch and looked like he wanted to hurt someone. I asked him what was wrong, and he said "After looking at our bills, we are so in over our heads, it's not even funny. How will we ever get out of this?" He continued on through the day being miserable and stressed out of his mind.<br />
<br />
I thought back into all of my reading and felt compelled to talk to him. When we allow things to build up inside and stress us out, it is a form of being prideful. What???? How???...you ask? Because, it is taking away from what our main focus SHOULD be. ANYTHING that takes away from our Godly focus is a form of pride. We need to give it ALL to God, no matter how big or small and trust that He will be there for us, through the good, and the bad.<br />
<br />
Of course, then you must be careful not to just ask God for help. We have to remember to thank Him regardless of the outcome.<br />
<br />
Maybe I pray, asking God to relieve us of the financial issues and help us get this house. Well, a week from now, the bank says "heck no!" and we are left to wonder, why didn't God answer our prayers? Guess what...He knows what is best for us. He DID answer our prayer! Even if we don't get the answer from God that we THINK we would like to have, we need to remember to THANK Him for answering because only He knows what is best for us. We have to trust Him and give Him thanks...<br />
<br />
The good news is, Eric eventually got everything accomplished and all of our paperwork is in to try and purchase our new home. He is no longer stressed and we have both given it to God. <br />
<br />
Try not to lose focus on God, even when things seem so overwhelming and massive. God will take the boulder off of your shoulder, if you let Him!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZVDmM-80Yid6DVWoj76cPLBd9qT0zRzfZxX10DMuCOTGDzvJlzd8ZDp719xL6fmyJ81uFyG9rwOGd5mUc14uQH8WTCZPRk19emVqS4QRzPGeLMkogf0d41L2C9fzYtuOWD4htp7WrYzo/s1600/DSCF0446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZVDmM-80Yid6DVWoj76cPLBd9qT0zRzfZxX10DMuCOTGDzvJlzd8ZDp719xL6fmyJ81uFyG9rwOGd5mUc14uQH8WTCZPRk19emVqS4QRzPGeLMkogf0d41L2C9fzYtuOWD4htp7WrYzo/s320/DSCF0446.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The new home we are trying to buy!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Carmen Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05263343927831668369noreply@blogger.com0