12): Downton, Love Letters, & Fave Kitchen Items

By bobbi
February 17, 2012
3 Comments

(Usually hosted by Jen at Conversion Diary.) This week hosted by Hailey at Betty Beguiles.com.

– 1 –

Until Next Year, Dear Downton – It’s been a busy week and these Quick Takes will be perfect to catch you up. For Valentine’s Day Brian got me the Downton Abbey Season 2 Blu-ray. We were so excited to finish the series. It was a Valentine treat! I won’t tell you what happens but if you don’t want even a hint then please skip to the next Quick Take. This episode wasn’t as emotional as others have been but there were two moments when I reached for a hankie – one was sad tears and one was happy tears. Brian thought this episode was a little anti-climatic but I think that was because one major storyline was resolved but a number of other storylines were not. After all, Season 3 needs drama too. The one thing I did not enjoy was the various Ouija board scenes. We could have done without that. But all in all it was a great season and I can’t wait for season 3!

– 2 –

That’s Amore – Speaking of Valentines, I was looking through a box of mementos looking for an old cassette tape of Dean Martin’s greatest hits. (Yes, I am so old I can remember when we used to have ghetto blasters and Walkmans!) I wanted to find it because when Brian and I were married for our honeymoon we went on a road trip to Northern California and we played that tape over and over again. (There are a number of greatest hits CD’s but none of them had the exact songs from that cassette.) Whenever I hear Return to Me or You Belong to Me or Memories Are Made of These I can’t help but think of our courtship, our long distance relationship, our honeymoon etc. (Music can be powerful like that – transporting you to the places that your memories hold!) I know he loved that tape and I wanted to find the list of songs from it so I could download them for him. I burned a CD that he could listen to in his car or download into his iPod. He was so touched and excited. 🙂

– 3 –

Love “Letters” – I also found in my treasure box a collection of love letters – the traditional hand written ones but also old blank cassettes that were “letter tapes” that Brian and I made when we were dating. We lived 400 miles from each other and we tried a number of things to bring us closer. We each had small tape recorders and we’d leave them in our cars. Whenever we were in the car (at the time I was commuting to San Diego a few days a week) we’d turn the recorder on and just chat about how our day was going, what was on our mind etc. I found my old recorder and started listening to one of the tapes. It was recorded shortly after we made it “official” that we were in love and were thinking about marriage in the future. It was funny to hear him talk about a possible job opening at Pebble Beach. (He had just left the seminary before we met and was doing various temp work. He got his current job at PB two weeks before we were married. Talk about trusting in God to provide!) He shared about his hopes for the future and how much he loved me. It brought tears to my eyes because he has kept his promise to love me and take care of me and our future children. He has been a better husband and best friend than I could have ever imagined. I think now I’ll go back and listen to one of my letter tapes that I recorded and remind myself of the promises I made to him to be a good wife and mother to his children. 🙂

– 4 –

Free Kindle Giveaway -I know that many of us in this Catholic blogging mom community are eagerly awaiting the release of Hailey Lord’s (beloved blogging mom, fashionista and this week’s QT host) new book Style, Sex, and Substance: 10 Catholic Women Consider the Things that Really Matter. If that wasn’t exciting enough, if you preorder your book you can enter to win a new Kindle Touch. Fun! Just place your order and then head to Betty Beguiles.com to enter. I’ll be ordering and entering as soon as I’m done with this post!

– 5 –

Maria, my brother Rob, and Bella and the flower girl

Pampered Chef Online Party – My sister-in-law Maria is hosting a Pampered Chef online party. I found out about Pampered Chef a few years back through a friend. I bought a few products and still love using them today. So if you are looking for some kitchen items, please feel free to browse Maria’s Pampered Chef page. (Orders due 2/26.) These are some of my favorite products.

Easy Read Measuring Cups (#2175)

Easy Read Mini Measuring Cup (#2177)

Medium Scoop (#2540)

(Perfect for scooping even amounts of cookie dough. This time I am buying the Large Scoop for even amounts of cupcake batter.)

Garlic Peeler (#2577)

(I think I need to buy another one because Matthew keeps taking mine to chew on it.)

Can Strainer (#2495)

(I like to turn the strainer upside down and press it down in a can of tuna to get the excess water out.)

– 6 –

Sick of Spam – You may have noticed that a week or two ago I switched the comment box to allow people to comment without having to sign in. It did allow for people to comment more often but it also allowed the spambots to easily post spam comments. Normally it’s not too bad and I just delete them at the end of the day but the other night my inbox was filling up like crazy. It downloaded over a hundred spams in minutes and they kept coming. I had to turn the comment box to requiring you sign in first. Sorry about the inconvenience. By the way, why do they call it spam? Is it because they both are poor substitutes for the real thing?

– 7 –

That’s it for today. I was going to post about the boys speech therapy and preschool decisions but it became too long for a quick take so I’ll post about it later today if time allows.
Have a wonderful weekend!!

7 Quick Takes – 1/6/2012

By bobbi
January 6, 2012
4 Comments

Hosted by Jen at Conversion Diary.

– 1 –

Happy feast of the Epiphany! I hope you all had a lovely Christmas and New Year’s. We have been out of town last week and I am still catching up on unpacking the suitcases and packing up the Christmas décor. I think that is why I am so reluctant to clean everything up…I don’t want to box up my favorite time of the year. (Well, truth be told, I’m actually a procrastinating messcat but the other scenario sounds so much more romantic…)

– 2 –

For Christmas I bought Brian a Kindle Fire. Anyone who knows me also knows that I am always the first one to get an electronic toy and then later Brian joins the bandwagon. However, I wanted to get him something special and being a book lover I thought this would be a nice match. He was very excited and has been using it frequently.

– 3 –

I have been holding off buying one myself because I have been saving up for an ipad instead. However, the more I think about it; maybe I should get myself a laptop – one of those sleek, thin ones that you can carry in your bag. It may make more sense than an ipad. However, it will take me awhile to save up extra money for that so I may just use some gift money I have saved up and get a kindle for me as well. Brian said that I could have his Kindle Fire and he could get one of the basic Kindles since he mostly uses it just for his books. Tempting, but I don’t know. Doesn’t it seem like I am taking back the very gift I gave him? I’ll have to think about it.

– 4 –

Speaking of electronic toys, a few months ago Brian and I both needed to replace our old iphones that weren’t working. We bought the new 4s and I love mine! (Should I admit that I even sleep with it? Hmmm. No, I better not.) I happen to also like the new Siri and I’m always telling her to set up reminders or asking her to read me new texts when I’m busy. I showed Brian how to use Siri and he swears his iphone is defective. He asks her a question and she almost always responds, “I’m sorry. I do not understand what you are saying.” I don’t know if he is speaking too close or talking too robotic but he insists it is not his fault. To prove to him that his phone was fine I used it and asked Siri a number of questions. She always gave me the correct information. So I don’t know what it is. He thinks it’s a conspiracy. You know, the same conspiracy/evil plot that allows things to be hidden from his sight. Yet, when I walk into the room to look for the hidden object it is always right there in plain sight. (Yes, Siri and I have it all worked out.)

– 5 –

The one thing I do not like about the iphone is how delicate it can be in the hands of young ones. I bought a cute decorative case cover for my iphone and I loved the personal touch but it gave no protection whatsoever. If I was the only one using it, that would be fine. However, the kids will often use my phone to play games or watch videos, especially in a long line at the market. (One lady at Costco was amazed because I handed my phone to John-Paul and at the age of two he was able to zip through pages and folders and open up his games. It’s second nature.) So my cute but worthless cover had to be replaced. My brother suggested that I get one of those ToughSkin rugged rubberized tread cases or one of those military grade ones made out of tires but that seemed a bit extreme.

Instead I settled on the Marware SoftGrip Core Case, available in black, white and pink. I like that it has a protective silicone skin, textured dimples on back to minimize impact shock and extra coverage around the display. It makes the phone slightly bulkier and it doesn’t slide easily into my pocket – I have to shove it in because of the silicone traction – but it is sturdy enough to handle the drops it has received so far.

– 6 –

Okay but enough talk about the electronic gadgets. How about a quick take about sewing something crafty and beautiful? (Obviously, not something I did.) My sister-in-law Maria is not only an incredible artist as you can see from this painting she gave us a couple years back…

… but she is also gifted at the sewing machine. Look at some of this handiwork!

She even made her own gift tags, gift bags and bows. And did I ever post what she gave me for my birthday last year?

A card with one of her sketches and matching magnets. So pretty! I’m trying to get her to open her own etsy shop and maybe when she gets over the tough first year of having a newborn, she will. I’ll keep you posted. 😉

– 7 –

I could make my last quick take about the cute aprons my other crafty sister EL made but she may want to post about that herself. Besides, all this sewing talk is depressing me. (I’m getting flashbacks of when I hemmed my pants with duct tape.) So instead I’ll put one last plug for Downton Abbey, Season 2 coming Sunday night. Jen mentioned it on her Quick Takes and I was elated to see others are as smitten as I am. Brian and I will still quote lines from it to each other. (“What is a weekend?” hahahaha! Love it.) Okay, here are some closing photos for all you on Team Mr. Bates & Anna. 😉

Okay that is it for now. I’m meeting up with some local Catholic moms this afternoon – something I’ve been sorely missing! Have a great weekend! xoxo

Learning in the Midst of Worry

By bobbi
July 12, 2011
2 Comments

I haven’t been motivated to post these past couple of days because my mind has been preoccupied. My younger brother Rob had been sick with what was thought to be a bad flu. However it wasn’t the flu and he took a turn for the worse and was admitted into the ICU on Sunday. He’s doing better now and will have surgery later today. Hopefully he will soon be back into the arms of his wife and newborn baby boy.
It’s so hard not being closer (we’re 400 miles apart) but I can probably do more good for him right here in my house as I pray for him and offer up my little crosses for him. I have to admit that this situation has been a good lesson for me. God’s been reminding me of a few things. First, to never take life (or our health) for granted. Life is fragile and can change in a heartbeat. Forget the petty and focus on the blessings.
Second, life may be fragile but the heart united to God is unbelievably strong and resilient. How many times have we seen people endure unspeakable pain yet they haven’t lost hope because of their faith in God. It’s amazing. And in the end God always seems to reveal good that came out of the tragedy.
Lastly, with my brother on my mind so much I have been constantly turning my heart to God to pray for him or to just talk to God about what happens to be on my mind. It is a reminder of how I should always be – going about my work but aware of God’s presence with me. I noticed that when I had to stop what I was doing to tend to another toddler crisis, instead of complaining or having a fit of impatience, I just sighed and thought, “I do this for love of you, my Lord.”
These lessons aren’t profound or anything I didn’t already know, but it was a good reminder for my short attention span….and as I’m sitting here thinking how to close this little post, a text just came from my brother in the hospital. It’s the first time I’ve been able to “talk” to him in awhile. I’m elated that he’s well enough to text and
I’m touched that he took a moment to tell me that he loved me. Wow. It’s funny that I’m one to tear up easily but I haven’t allowed myself to cry over this situation. I’m afraid I’ll start sobbing uncontrollably and freak out the kids. So right now I’m going to go change some smelly diapers and get the dishes done and keep myself occupied. But I think late tonight my pillow is getting a good, long bathing. Until then, please keep my brother in your prayers. Thanks so much.

An Online Raffle of “The Love That Saves”

By bobbi
August 19, 2008
No Comments

My brother Rob and his girl friend (the amazing artist) Maria Rangel have a dear friend named Liza Boquiren who has been accepted into community of the Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Alhambra. (An awesome order of nuns in So Cal.) However, Liza has school loans she needs to pay off. Liza’s friends brainstormed and came up with a way they could help her with her vocation – they are holding a raffle for this piece entitled “The Love That Saves.” Here are the details:

E-Raffle Information:
– E-Raffles are $5.00 a piece, no limit per person.
– For every 5 raffles you buy, get a 6th one FREE!
– E-Raffle drawing will occur on October 28th, 2008.
– All E-raffle purchasers will be notified of the winner via email (phone if no email).

Prize Information:– Image of John Paul II.
– Size 2 ft. x 2 ft. giclée print on canvas of an oil painting, value $900.00.
– Artist, Maria Rangel, www.rangelstudios.com

For more information or to purchase your raffle “ticket,” go to http://lizaboq.blogspot.com/2008/07/online-raffle-love-that-saves.html. (Purchase a raffle and spread the word to others! Thanks! -Bobbi) The raffle is closed.

****************************

About Liza (by Rebecca Flynn)

Liza is a spirited, joyful, intelligent, beautiful woman of God. She has a great love for Christ, and seeks the will of God in everything. She has a great compassion and love for others as well. Liza strives to live her life for God, in all ways.
Liza has taught Confirmation Classes, for girls, at her parish, St Peter Chanel. She has helped spread Pope John Paul II’s “Theology of the Body.” A couple of years ago, with the backing of the Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles, Liza got the approval of three California Dioceses to start a group called ENDOW (Educating on the Nature and Dignity of Women) in Southern California, where she lives. ENDOW is an organization that brings women together to study the documents of the Church, especially the writings of JPII on women (The Letter to Women, etc.) for fellowship, intellectual growth and renewed knowledge on what it means to be truly feminine.
August 16th, Liza will be entering the community of the Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles. Although, prior to entering, Liza needs support in reducing her debt from school loans. The Carmelites, like most religious communities, cannot afford to assume debt, so please consider buying a raffle ticket. Liza is very humble. She has never asked for any financial assistance. The idea for this raffle came about through the brainstorming of Liza’s friends. This effort, on Liza’s behalf, was brought to fruition by the gifting and generosity of Maria Rangel, the artist who so beautifully painted “The Love that Saves.”
Thanks for taking the time to read this, and prayerfully considering how you can best support Liza’s vocation.
God’s blessings, Rebecca Flynn
UPDATE:
Special thanks to all who participated and donated, especially MG.
(Aug 2011)
Rob and Maria are now married. Their first child Maximilian was born in May 2011.
Liza is now Sr. Meredith and Max’s godmother. Here are photos of when they first met.

Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Alhambra

Sr. Meredith and Max meeting for the first time.

Sr. Meredith, Max and Maria

Family Chit Chat: My July Visitors

By bobbi
July 29, 2008
No Comments

I miss having my family around but I am thankful that most of us are only separated by a 6 ½ -7 hour drive. (For EL, that would be a plane trip, not a drive.) Since it is so hot where they live in So Cal, we usually let my family do the traveling in the summer. (A few days of Carmel fog usually has them wanting to go back to their sunny homes!)
Last month my parents were here and this month my brother Rob and his girlfriend Maria came to visit for a few days. After the business of cleaning and finding separate quarters for them, we were able to enjoy a great visit. It was sooo nice having Rob around to joke with and to spend late night hours talking. Plus, we were able to spend more time with Maria, whom Bella just adores! (Bella told me she reminds her of one of the princesses at Disneyland – just incredibly sweet.) Maria is also an amazing artist! I was looking through her portfolio and was really impressed. (Check out some of her work at Rangel Studios.) I can’t wait to see who is coming to visit next month…

Rob with Bella and his godson Andrew.

Revolution of Love

Do small things with great love.

Category Archives: rob & maria

7 Quick Takes (2/17/12): Downton, Love Letters, & Fave Kitchen Items

7 Quick Takes – 1/6/2012

Learning in the Midst of Worry

An Online Raffle of “The Love That Saves”

Family Chit Chat: My July Visitors