15) & 7 Quick Takes: Brian Update, Confession & Movies

By bobbi
July 31, 2015
No Comments

Happy ~~Monday~~! ~~Tuesday~~! ~~Wednesday~~! ~~Thursday~~! Friday! Okay, seriously?? I’ve sat down to write this post every day this week but every time something comes up and I’m sidetracked. Oh, well. Such is life. However, I want to make the effort to post a Daybook since many of you have asked how Brian’s cancer testing went. In a nutshell, great! For the longer version, plus a little bit of this and that, read below. 🙂 I am linking up with Kelly for 7 Quick Takes.

~ 1 ~

Grateful for…

Brian’s good health.
My brother’s successful surgery and that he’s back home with his family.
The kids’ swimming instructors and their patience.
Brian’s safe trip and return home.
The love and family and friends.

Praying for..

Those in abusive (physical or emotional) relationships.
Those who have recently lost their lives, especially under tragic circumstances, and the loved ones left behind.
The upcoming the BIS Brunches and those planing and attending.
All pregnant moms, those trying to get pregnant, those who have lost their babies (especially my sis) and for moms contemplating an abortion.
The souls in purgatory, especially family, friend and those most forgotten.
Some special intentions.

Pondering…

My need for Reconciliation this weekend. I can always tell when I am getting close to (or past) my monthly Confession. I am more easily impatient, short tempered and put out by inconveniences. Yesterday I was upset with Brian over something stupid and caught myself talking down to him like he was one the kids. I have been trying to be careful not to do that and to lift him up with my words and actions. But I was in such a foul mood that everything anyone said to me was getting on my nerves.

I know when I get like this I need to humble myself before God and receive God’s grace through the Sacrament to strengthen my soul. If it’s been awhile since you’ve been to confession, let’s both get to it this weekend! 🙂

~ 2 ~

Around the House…

As you know, I have been trying to work on the house a little each day but the progress is so slow sometimes it is depressing. I feel like I am so far behind and have so little extra time and even with the kids “helping” I don’t feel like I am making a dent. The other day Brian came home and I just broke down and cried. I felt like a failure. I let the mess get so bad that I couldn’t get myself out of it. Of course that wasn’t completely true and Brian was quick to soothe me and gently reminded me that life with a busy family means progress may be slow but it is there. After a good cry and getting the tension off my chest, I was able to see the corners of the house that did look better and how continued purging of all the junk (my hoarding tendencies really come out when I purge!) will help me make more progress. 🙂

Family Chit Chat… (Brian Update)

My best friend and sweetheart.

As many of you know, Brian has been battling cancer for the last two years. He was clean as of Jan 2015. Last week he was scheduled for another round of bloodwork and a CT scan. We got the results in Monday and his scan was clean and his bloodwork was good. In fact, the doc said his levels have improved. Three months ago his bloodwork had him in the lower normal range. This time he was in the solidly middle range. It is such a relief to get this news. it is never something that we will be done with and we will always have that cloud over our head somewhat, but hopefully Our Lord will continue to bless us with health and healing.

Thank you so much to all of you for your continued prayers and words of encouragement. Brian thinks it’s a little weird that I share these things with you but I need the emotional support and prayers of my OL friends and in turn it may give an encouragement to someone else struggling with some of the things I discuss. So to you, the quiet lurker reading this who never comments, sending out an encouraging hug to you. No words need to be spoken. 🙂

~ 3 ~

In the Kitchen…

I tried a new recipe for our Thursday’s breakfast dinner. I made Martha Stewart’s oven baked blueberry pancake. We don’t use white flour or white sugar so I made it with wheat flour and coconut sugar, adding a touch of cinnamon. It was a little more dense than a fluffy white pancake but still came out tasty and everyone gobbled it up! Next time I may try using wheat pastry flour.

~ 4 ~

Watching…

(At the Movies)

Summer is movie time! Here are the latest…

Me, Earl and the Dying Girl

Although I am old enough to be their parents, I enjoy watching the young adult movies filled with ironic teens who never quite talk like any teen I’ve known. Although, I happened to sit behind a group of hip, ironic teens that talked as if they belonged in one of these movies. It was kind of sweet to witness. Anyway, the movie was about a self-centered teen (Greg) who is forced by his mom to befriend a classmate (Rachel) that has leukemia. Although Rachel has cancer, the movie is really more about the self-loathing Greg learning to care about someone other than himself and risking getting hurt in order to connect with another person on a deeper level. There are touching moments and quirky humor that add to the overall movie. Rated 3 1/2 out of 5 stars or “I wouldn’t rent or buy the DVD but I’d watch it again if it happened to be on TV.” Parent’s note: The movie contains profane language, crude remarks/ behavior, a secular worldview and deals with cancer and it’s effects.

Mr. Holmes

Some may think that the story of Sherlock Homes has been done to death but I don’t mind the various versions. This movie is the story of a non-mythical Sherlock at the end of his life, dealing with his failing mind and his desire to right a case that he cannot remember. It is definitely more of a drama than a mystery. The story was a little slow at times (and the storyline a little depressing) but what really made this movie was the remarkable talent of Ian McKellen. He was painfully believable as a genius of a man grappling with the decline of his mental capabilities. Maybe it felt a little close to home seeing my father-in-law decline mentally but it touched me. Rated 3 1/2 out of 5 stars or “I wouldn’t buy the DVD but I’d rent it on DVD so Brian could watch it.” Parent’s note: The movie deals with some adult subjects.

Listening to …

Molecules by Atlas Genius is my song of the week. 🙂

Reading…

I’ve been so bad with my reading lately! I am trying to finish up Jen Fulwiler’s first book Something Other Than God so I can read her new one Like Living Among Scorpions: One Woman’s Quest to Survive Her Suburban Life.

Also on the night stand…

Lizzy and Jane

~ 5 ~

Here are last couple of posts…

Other than the granola recipe and a couple Daybooks, it’s been quiet. I’m in summer mode. 😉

Pinterest Party & Link-up (vol 37): Homemade Coconut Granola

~ 6 ~

In the blogosphere…

When life is so busy you don’t have time to read your favorite blogs, then I recommend at least reading Catholic All Year. Kendra manages to always have great posts such as these…

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Here are some Instagrams I’ve taken these past two weeks.

1 – #projectblessed – Goodbye. Goodbye lawlessness. There’s a new sheriff in town.

2 – #projectblessed – Sitting. I’m sitting down with the sweet @celia.oz to plan a Blessed Is She Brunch for Monterey, CA.

3 – That moment when your daughter says, “I’ll make the boys’ breakfast so you can do your work, mom.” ❤️❤️ Mamas of young ones, one day your 13 yr old will make meals and your 8 yr will vacuum and your 5 yr old will match clean socks and your 4 yr old will set the table. You’ll have helpers soon!!

4 – #projectblessed – Street & Glimpse. You can get a glimpse into Matthew’s mind when you see what he wants for his birthday. We saw this while walking along the street of downtown Carmel.

5 – #projectblessed – Clean. I was cleaning the kitchen and found this guy. After a few swats with a shoe I realized it was from Matthew’s toy Spider-Man car. (I don’t know if I was more relieved or mad.)

6 – #projectblessed – handwriting

7 – #projectblessed – Where I live. Even on a gloomy day, there’s no place like home.

8 – It’s been a busy day but now I’m slowing down and writing a letter to a @blessedisshe__ sister.

9 – #projectblessed – Drink. After shopping with the boys I feel like I need a stiff drink.

~ 8 ~

Bonus Take

Speaking of Blessed Is She, tomorrow August 1, it is my turn to share a Gospel reflection with you. Here’s a snippet…

The reading of the beheading of Saint John the Baptist has never been one of my favorites. Let’s face it: it’s not the most uplifting passage. So this morning as I was trying to think of something positive, what kept coming to mind is John’s fearlessness and Herod’s cowardice.

I have always been in awe of John’s persona. He didn’t shy away from preaching about God. His call to repentance was aimed at all people, even those who could do him harm. In the end, John gave his life for the love of God.

Herod saw this. He feared and loathed John because he made him face his sins and exposed his cowardice. Although Herod wanted to put John to death, he feared John’s followers. Later when Herodias’ daughter asked for John’s head, Herod regretted his oath but he feared upsetting his guests who commanded that he follow through. So he had John beheaded.

How are we living our lives?

Are we like Herod, not wanting to face our sins and in fear of what people will think of us? Or are we like John, a fearless preacher of the Gospel, willing to die for God?

Continue reading here.

So that’s what I’ve been up to lately! What about you? What’s currently happening in your life? Do share.

Have a great weekend!

PS – You can follow RoL on Bloglovin, Feedly or another news feed. If you are a social media fan like me, we can stay in touch through Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, GoodReads Letterboxd, Spotify or Instagram. 😉

PPS – This post contains affiliate links.

7 Quick Takes (7/19/15) & Answer Me This

By bobbi
July 20, 2015
2 Comments

When summer began I was so excited to have some time to myself to get things done. What the heck happened? Summer vacation is half over and I feel like I am running around busier now that I was during the school year. As a result, posting here has been sparse and there have been way too may blah, blah, blah posts that don’t really serve much more than letting me unwind a little. I guess that’s okay, so sit down and kick off your heels (or flats, in my case) and join me in Kendra’s virtual cocktail party Answer Me This and Kelly’s 7 Quick Takes.

~ 1 ~

It’s been a rainy Sunday with thunderstorm waking me up at 4:50 AM this morning. I can’t remember the last time we had a storm like that. I rushed to the boys’ room certain they’d be afraid of the loud thunder cracking over our house but they didn’t even budge. Why is it when I want to sleep in they are up at 6AM and when I am awake and ready to go they decide to sleep in. That’s a cruel joke, Mr. Murphy!

~ 2 ~

Have you heard about Periscope? I first heard about it on one of Jen Fulwiler’s podcast. You know I love me some social media and I’ve jumped on the Periscope bandwagon craze! If you are unfamiliar, it is an app were you can post live video. As the person is recording, the names of participants come up on the lower half of the screen (you sign up with your Twitter account) and you can type in comments and questions. The ‘scoper can read and respond to your comments. There are some drawbacks – videos are only up for 24 hours, there’s no rewind or FF button and anyone can see your video unless you post it as private or block them. On the plus side, it is fun to see your favorite blogger or twitter friend live or to watch a clip of a concert or see another part of the world. It’s been fun! If you on Periscope, let me know so I can follow you. 🙂

The rest of the Takes will answer Kendra’s questions.

~ 3 ~

1. What’s currently on your To Do list?

(My Erin Condren planner. See more info here.)

My list is filled with a lot of rip roaring fun! You know, things like – paying bills, renewing my driver’s license, filling out school forms, taking kids to swim classes, dentist appointments, doc appointments, ortho appointments, speech therapy… fun stuff, people! It’s sort of our summer routine. In June, after school is over we celebrate a slew of birthdays and go to Tahoe. In July we pack in all our classes and appointments. Then in August we slow down and do more family fun things before school starts.

Oh, but you know one thing I want to add to my To Do list – a brain dump! Have you done one of these?? I heard about it when I was watching a periscope from Mystie from Simplified Organization.com. She said it is one of the best things to do when you feel scattered and distracted. Yeah, that’s got my name written all over it.

~ 4 ~

2. Better type of superhero: magic/radioactive powers? Or trauma/gadgets/hard work?

Hmm…interesting question. I think I am going to go with trauma/gadgets, hard work. There is just something about a guy (or girl) that trains and works their body to do incredible things, especially after they have suffered a trauma. It could also be because I just finished watching the last episode of Daredevil on Netflix and I love his character, flaws and all. It reminds me a bit of Batman in The Dark Knight. Would Star Lord from Guardians of the Galaxy count in that category because he’s a fave too. 😉

~ 5 ~

3. Finding out if baby is a boy or a girl before birth: Good idea? Bad idea?

It’s funny that I am the type of person that HATES spoilers. I don’t want to know how a movie ends. I refuse to watch a movie unless I start it from the beginning to get the full effect of the ending but when it comes to finding out about the baby, I want to know! I like being able to call our little one by name and picture him or her and what they’ll be like. Although, it does not always work out the way you planned.

Besides Bella showing up a month before her due date and on the day of my baby shower, she had another surprise for us.

When I went for my ultrasound the doc could not tell if she was a boy or girl but he said if he was forced to choose a side, it looked more like a boy. I didn’t want to admit to anyone that I was secretly hoping that my first born would be a girl. However, I embraced my future “son” and bought lots of baby boy clothes only to be shocked when the doctor announced, “It’s a girl!” I remember my mom running to the store and buying me a bunch of pink outfits to replace all the boy clothes I had hanging in the closet. So in this case, finding out did not help. 🙂

~ 6 ~

4. Have you ever appeared on a stadium jumbotron?

No, I am not much of a sport fan. I remember going to a couple hockey games with my brothers when I was growing up but no jumbotron sightings.

5. Are you more book smart or more street smart?

I guess, street smart. I probably have more practical knowledge than classical knowledge.

~ 7 ~

6. Have you had that baby yet? (Feel free to skip this one if it’s not applicable to you.)

Well, I may look preggers but my baby was born four years ago. So let’s just drop that subject, ‘kay!

All right, guys, it is nearly midnight and I am feeling punchy so I better get some sleep.

Oh, and if I remember correctly, tomorrow is Monday the 20th and it is my turn to share my thoughts on the Gospel over at Blessed Is She. Plus, it is my turn for the BIS Monday Introductions on Instagram. It’s a twofer! So check it out. 🙂

Have a great night/day!

xoxo,

PPS – This post contains affiliate links.

Online Daybook (6/8/15) & 7 Quick Takes: Birthdays, Books & Movie Reviews

By bobbi
June 8, 2015
10 Comments

I was supposed to post this Friday but I was too busy with school events! Oh, well. I’m linking up with Kelly for 7 Quick Takes and Jenny for Online Daybook Journal.

~ 1 ~

Grateful…

That John-Paul is back in school after a week of being ill.
For sunshine after days and days of gray gloom.
That there are only three school days until summer vacation.
For unexpected acts of kindness.

Praying for..

Those who are being persecuted for their faith.
That I don’t take my faith (or God’s grace) for granted.
All the students who are graduating and for their future ventures.
Those who are ill, especially for those fighting cancer, and that Brian remains cancer-free.
All pregnant moms, those trying to get pregnant, those who have lost their babies and for moms contemplating an abortion.
The souls in purgatory, especially family, friend and those most forgotten.
Some special intentions.

Pondering…

Last week I got an email from a sweet reader named Vanessa and it really brightened my day. I kept thinking about this one line she wrote.

“Thanks for giving other moms a peek into your life! Sometimes all we need is to know we’re not alone in this.”

I could not agree more!! What is that saying? “Motherhood is not for wimps!” (Or it could have been, “Pass me the chocolate. STAT!”) Either way, I am always encouraged when I hear/read about another mom share her triumphs and her trials. I am eager to rejoice with her or to give her a shoulder to cry on.

I remember awhile ago when a friend confided in me with some struggles she was having interiorly. I was a little shocked, not because of what she said, but because in my eyes she was Mrs. Happy Super Catholic Mom and I envied her more than once. Once I took her off the pedestal I saw her for who she really was – a mom that has done amazing work but who also struggles in different areas of her life. I’ve felt a lot closer to her since then. I also stopped imagining that other people have this “perfect” life.

All of us Catholic moms, no… Make that all of us Catholic women should have a sort of kindred spirit. We are all in this fight together and no matter where we are in our vocation or circumstances in life, we all need support, respect and encouragement to be the women of God that we’re meant to be.

So thanks for reaching out to me, Vanessa. It meant a lot.

My challenge to you who happens to be reading this, go reach out to someone who could use a kind word or a hug of encouragement. 🙂

~ 2 ~

Around the House…

Yeah, you don’t even want to look around my house because I’ve been gone all week and am sooo behind. Yesterday Andrew had to wear pajamas when he got home from school because there were literally no more clean clothes to wear. Thankfully, this weekend I did a lot of catching up! My kids happen to still be in pajamas but it is strictly by choice, I swear! 😉

Family Chit Chat…

Thursday was Matthew’s last day at pre-school. We have been attending the same pre-school for the past decade. All four kids are alumni and today was our last official day there. Next year Matthew will attend the big kids school in the Pre-K (or Transitional Kindergarten) class. It will be our one year to have all four kids in the same school before Bella goes off to high school. High school! Gosh, that really freaks me out! We are entering a whole new era in our family and I’m not quite sure how I feel about that! 🙂

Today is a special day because it is my sweet Andrew’s birthday! Eight years ago, after years of secondary infertility and two miscarriages, God finally blessed us with the gift of Andrew’s life. He can be funny and crazy but he is more often my soulful child who likes to ponder and think about deep subjects. He reminds me so much of Brian and I pray he grows up to be a good and holy man like his father. I love you, sweetie boy!

~ 3 ~

In the Kitchen…

I haven’t picked out my new recipe to try this week yet. Any suggestions? I’ve got a lot of chicken in the freezer. Actually, I also have a bag of red potatoes to use up. Hmm…a recipe is starting to formulate. I’ll keep you posted. 😉

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Watching…

(At the Movies) Over the past two weeks I saw two movies.

It has been awhile since I’ve been to a great period drama movie and Far From the Madding Crowd did not disappoint. Honestly, I loved it. I have never read the book (by Thomas Hardy) so I can’t tell you how it compares. The main character Bethsheba Everdene is an independent woman that comes into unexpected wealth. She sets out to prove that she can be a strong and successful mistress of her land despite the conventions of the time. Meanwhile, Everdene is courted by three suitors – a humble farmer, a rich land owner and a dashing soldier. In theory it may seem a little cliched but it works really well and you feel for not only Everdene but for each suitor, in some capacity. I didn’t know how the story was going to end and was holding my breath that there would be some tragic conclusion that would depress me but I was ever so pleased with the way the movie ended. This has definitely fallen into my “Buy the Blu-ray when it is released” category. (Parent note: Adult themes. Some sensuality. A scene of animals dying violently. It was sad but the woman sitting next to me completely freaked and was sobbing.)

The second movie I watched was Tomorrowland. I really, really wanted to like this movie but I came out thinking, meh. The story premise was interesting and the visual effects were stunning at times but in the plot there were too many moments when the movie just lagged and got boring. (Bella literally almost feel asleep on me at a few points.) The ending was getting heavy with it’s soapbox preaching, however, my favorite part of the movie was the last five minutes when they were searching for people who were creatively making a difference in the world. It was beautiful. It’s too bad there weren’t more moments like that. This has definitely fallen into my “Sat through it once but wouldn’t watch it again” category. (Parent note: The violence is stylized and but it could be unsettling for the youngest viewers.)

(On TV)

This week Brian and I started watching the Netflix series Daredevil. We’ve only seen two episodes so far but we both love it. It is dark and gritty but very well done and it has a touch of Catholicism. I’m interested to see how it develops.

Listening to …

This song is a couple of years old but it is still a favorite and the video is just cool. Plus, John-Paul’s’ Pre-K class lip synched the song today for their end of the year ceremony. Now the song is stuck in my head but thankfully the memory is sweet. 🙂

Reading…

I finally finished The Girl on A Train. I gave it three out of five stars. The story was slightly confusing since it was written from the viewpoint of three women and you had to keep track of each of their points of view and whether is was a flashback or real time but it wasn’t that big of a deal. However, the lives of the women are so depressing, it’s hard not to feel a little down after reading. One is an alcoholic struggling with a number of personal issue. One is sleeping around as she struggling with pain from her past. The third is a home wrecker who has no remorse. That being said, by the time the mystery started unfolding and clues were being gathered, I could not put the book down until I found out what happened. If you were a fan of Gone Girl, then you’d most likely enjoy this story too. (Parent notes: Not for Kids. Sex is mostly implied and not graphic. Some language.)

The next book on my list…

Dear Mr. Knightley: A Novel

~ 5 ~

Here are last couple of posts…

Pinterest Party & Link-up (vol 36): Slow Cooker Pulled Pork – The RoL Pinterest Party is back! The link-up is open for another week so join in with a new or old posts. 🙂

Dating Q&A: I May Have Faults but Can’t I Want a Guy to Like Me as I Am and Not Expect Me to Be Perfect?

Dating Mr. Wrong: Questions to Ask about Your Relationship

Also, a big thanks to all those who voted for my new logo. This design was the winner.

I just tweaked it a bit with a different font and added the tagline.

~ 6 ~

In the blogosphere…

A small sample of posts I’ve been reading and enjoying…

The Triumphant Return of Answer Me This – Catholic All Year.com (Yay!)

How to Keep the Spirit of the Visitation Alive by Heather guest posting at CatholicMom.com

Tricks to Help You Save Money and Stop Impulse Buying by VerilyMag.com

Sodality: How I came to be a “Church Lady” by Parenting with Peer Review

From Sales Manager to Laundry Lady by Little Silly Goose.com

Going Deeper {Fabulously Featured at Catholic Sistas by Real Catholic Mom.com

Caring for Oneself by Muffindome.com

Why I Always Tell My Age by Annery at Home

I was going to pick one of Erica’s posts from Saint Affairs but the girl is on fire and there are too may good posts to choose one. So just head on over and read you last few posts!

Pinned…

One Fun Thing A Day by Big White Farmhouse

~ 7 ~

Here are some Instagrams I’ve taken these past two weeks.

1. #projectblessed – Plant. I am notorious for killing my plants with neglect. However, now that I’ve put Andrew in charge of watering, they’ve blossomed! No filter.

2. #projectblessed – On the ground. Go into ANY room in our house and you’ll find something similar on the ground. (I didn’t even have to pose it.)

3. #projectblessed – Waking up. Upon waking up I thank God for another day of life and pray for the grace to love Him through the happenings of the day. (Something that has yet to come easy.)

4.#projectblessed – Small. I set my alarm for 9:30am to remind me to pray for a friend at that time. A simple prayer seems so small but those prayers are like drops of water in the ocean. Alone is may not be much, but joined together with others, it goes farther than the eye can see.

5. #projectblessed – It’s time for #BISsisterhood Monday intros and #projectblessed – portrait. I’m Bobbi, wife to Brian, mama to a teen daughter and 3 Jedi aged 7, 5 & 4. I live along the coast of central Cali so I enjoy being outdoors. When I’m indoors I’m blogging at Revolution of Love.com, contributing to BIS, catching a movie or rationalizing why it’s okay for me to put off laundry until tomorrow. The question this week is what are my hopes. Short term: this summer I hope to get my house in order and get rid of the growing clutter. Long term: I hope to love God more deeply, love my husband more selflessly and love my kids more patiently.

6. #projectblessed – Reflection. The last few days have been drizzly but I love raindrops of leaves and the reflections they hold.

7. I feel like I’ve been slacking in the kitchen lately so today I’m making up for lost time. I’ve got pulled pork in the slow cooker, homemade BBQ sauce on the stove and banana bread in the oven. Next up is coconut granola.

8. #projectblessed – What I’m reading & On my table. On my nightstand table is my ridiculous stack of books I was supposed to read by the end of the year but I have a hard time just sticking with one! I’ve been forcing myself to finish one before moving on. Right now it’s “Dear Mr. Knightly.”

9. #projectblessed – Waking up & Listen. I woke up to the sound of birds tweeting. I think they were excited to see a bit of blue sky after days and days of gloom!

So that’s what I’ve been up to lately! What about you? What’s currently happening in your life? Do share.

Have a great weekend!

PPS – This post contains affiliate links.

Online Daybook & 7 Quick Takes (5/22/15): Smog Checks, New Logos & Prompts from the Holy Spirit

By bobbi
May 22, 2015
16 Comments

I’m linking up with Kelly for Friday’s Quick Takes.

~ 1 ~

Grateful for…

A car that runs well, even though I am currently at the service center getting a mandatory smog check.
My sweet Matty, even though he is at the age when he constantly asks one question after another without taking a breath.
The sun that is breaking through these gloomy clouds.
Family and friends that fill our lives with love.

Praying for..

Those who feel alone and unloved.
Those who are suffering abuse and for the conversion of their abusers.
Those who are ill, especially for those fighting cancer, and that Brian remains cancer-free.
All pregnant moms, those trying to get pregnant, those who have lost their babies and for moms contemplating an abortion.
The souls in purgatory, especially family, friend and those most forgotten.
Some special intentions.

Pondering…

The prompting of the Holy Spirit. I remember many years ago listening to a priest give a talk about the Holy Spirit. He said that the HS will often prompt us to do something, usually to help another person. Maybe something will pop into your head, such as – I should give so-and-so a call or I should offer that lady in the grocery story some help or I should tell that struggling young mom at school that despite what she may feel, she is doing an awesome job. The priest said that often these kind of things comes from the Holy Spirit. It really made me think about how we are Jesus’ hands and feet. We are the ones who are called to share his love with others.

There are many times when I get these kind of ideas in my head. My first reaction is, “Yes! That would really be a kind ting to do.” My second reaction is to think, “Yeah, but I’m kinda busy or that person is going to think I’m crazy if I go up and talk to them.” I either procrastinate so long that the opportunity is gone or I just plain chicken out. Lately, I’ve been trying to listen to this little prompts in my head. I do a quick “test” of the action. Will it cause me harm? That eliminates prompts like, “Maybe I should pick up that scary looking hitchhiker on the side of the road.” Um, no. Is it safe and doesn’t take me away from my immediate duties? For example, I think I should bring over soup to a sick friend but I have to pick up my kids from school. Instead I make plans to bring the soup after I pick them up. Other spur of the moments ideas can be done right away – like offering a word of encouragement to someone. The only thing I may harm is my pride if I am rebuffed.

For example, on Mother’s Day we were at Mass and we had the usual mothers’ blessing. All the moms were asked to stand up and after the priest blessed us the ushers went around and handed us little angel pins as a gift. I noticed that there was one older mom/grandma standing on the opposite side of the aisle from me that was mistakenly overlooked. I felt bad for her and thought that I should go over there and give her my pin. My mind answered, “Wait, what? I can’t just walk over to a stranger. She’s not going to care about some pin. That’s silly.” But the thought would not go away so as soon as the priest walked passed me during the procession, I went over to her and told her that I noticed she didn’t get a pin and I didn’t want her to think she was forgotten so please take mine. She said she didn’t want to take mine but I told her not to worry because there are more in the back of church and I’ll get another. She looked at me and smiled and then gave me a big hug and said thank you. (I’m getting teary eyed just recalling that look on her face.) It was the simplest of gestures but for that woman, it was what she needed to hear just then. So the next time you get a little prompt from the Holy Spirit, take it to heart. God may need you to be his hands and feet at that moment.

~ 2 ~

Around the House…

I am in the process of working on my June goals and one of them is to tackle the numerous areas of the house that need serious purging and cleaning. I’ll share that with you on another posts. 😉

Family Chit Chat…

As I mentioned I am the gas station getting my car smogged. Luckily, the gas station has a table, umbrella and surrounding flowers so customers have a nice spot to wait. I am getting some writing done while Matthew watches Spiderman videos. 🙂

We are nearing all the end of the school year activities. Next week is spirit week at school followed by the annual mini-Olympics. Plus Bella is in the school musical of Annie, Jr so she has been having long practices after school and on the weekends. It is fun but very busy and I am really looking forward to the slower days of summer when I am not constantly shuttling around kids from one activity to another. Plus we have our Tahoe trip coming up next month and I am sooooo excited for that! Woohoo!

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In the Kitchen…

It is Memorial Day weekend so I will definitely need to make something BBQ. And since I am I trying to make one new recipe a week, I thought I’d try this Healthy 7 Layer Dip. Sounds tasty!

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Watching…

(At the Movies) No new movies this week but I’ll be back in the theater next week. I’ve got a list of ones I want to watch in the coming weeks including The Avengers: Age of Ultron (I’m waiting for a date night with Brian to see that one), Tomorrowland (I’ll be taking Bella and her best friend), Far from the Maddening Crowd (I’ll probably go see that solo next week). If time allows I may see Woman in God before it leaves theaters. I was going to skip Mad Max but Jennifer Willits was talking about how much she enjoyed it on her podcast so maybe I’ll add it to the list. For those who are wondering how I can go to the movies so often, that is one of the perks of your kids being a little older. They go to bed and (usually) stay asleep and you can slip out for two hours without it becoming a monumental endeavor. That and I have a rockin hubby who lets me have the night off. (Plus I have a number of theater gift cards I am using up.) 😉

What movies are you looking forward to this summer?

(On TV)

Awhile back I wrote about the Hallmark series When Call the Heart. I said:

We’ve been watching a lot of action/superhero movies so tonight we will catch up on the new Hallmark series When Calls the Heart. It is based on the book(s) When Calls the Heart (Canadian West Book #1) by Janet Oke. The show has a “Little House on the Prairie” feel, perhaps because it is directed by Michael Landon, Jr. Plus, I am a sucker for a romance story and I’m rooting for Elizabeth and Jack.

Season two has started and the love triangle has shifted, now giving Jack some competition for Elizabeth’s affections. If you haven’t been watching, Season 1 is now available on Netflix.

Listening to …

I won’t be able to download the new Monsters and Men album Beneath the Skin until June 9th but in the meantime I can enjoy their single Empire. 🙂

Reading…

Same as last week.

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I am working on updating my blog logo. I narrowed it down to four choice. Please do me a favor and tell me which one you like the best! Thank you!! 🙂

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Oh, and don’t forget to enter the contest to win one of Jenna’s Mini-Hoop necklaces! Only 2 days left!

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In the blogosphere…

7 kindnesses to show your spouse while raising small kids by Whole Parenting Family.com

Using PicMonkey to Make Graphic Designs by Catholic All Year

Beautiful Like Me by Roses for Mommy

Life Lessons in 17 Years of Marriage by A Catholic Reversal

7 Valuable Life Lessons: Virtues of an Imperfect Mother by The Pitter Patter Diaries.com

By Our Love, By Our Love by Fumblin Toward Grace.com

Infertility and Big Families by Annery at Home

From Me to You #2 {Giveaway Series} (Win a Blessed Is She Journal) by Saint Affairs

Taos Pubelo: A Sacred Place by Sew Travel Inspired.com

Pinned…

Sidewalk Chalk Fun by Sweet Litttle Ones Blog.com

Rhubarb Streusel Pie (Yum!!!!) by Coppertop Kitchen

Using PicMonkey to Make Word Art by Catholic All Year

Our Lady of Fatima — Anniversary Celebration with Free Bow by Catholic Fit Mom for Life

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Here are some Instagrams I’ve taken this past week.

1. I want to tell you how much I love my new @chatbooks with my IG photos. (Only $6 a book!) Thanks for the heads up @jiza_zito. #projectblessed

2. #projectblessed – Dinner. We had a dinner of leftovers because Brian and I splurged for Panera at lunch.

3. #projectblessed – Together. The boys and I worked together to plant flowers around the house.

4. Freshly planted flowers and palm tree reflections.

5. #projectblessed – Nature. Nothing like a beautiful scene of nature to melt the stress and lift your heart to heaven. No filter.

6. #projectblessed – When you NURTURE playful fun in your children you never know what (or who) to EXPECT around the corner.

So that’s what I’ve been up to lately! What about you? What’s currently happening in your life? Do share.

Have a great weekend!

Online Daybook & 7 Quick Takes (5/15/15): Stress vs Prayer, The Break & Adaline

By bobbi
May 15, 2015
5 Comments

Hey guys, happy Friday! It’s been a crazy week and the early part of it had me at the end of my rope but thankfully things are going much more smoothly now. 😉

I’m linking up with Kelly for Friday’s Quick Takes and with Jenny for Daybook Online Journal.

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Grateful for…

God’s grace that lifts you when you can’t go on.
A husband that cares for me and puts up with my occasional nonsense.
For my kiddos smiles and kisses that makes me forget how crazy they can sometimes be.
The beauty of nature that turns my heart back to the Creator.
The grace of confession.

Praying for..

Those who feel broken and alone in their plights.
Those who are far from God that the grace of conversion will touch their heart.
Those who are ill, especially for those fighting cancer, and that Brian remains cancer-free.
Those fighting addictions and for those with loved ones who are addicted but refuse help.
All pregnant moms, those trying to get pregnant, those who have lost their babies and for moms contemplating an abortion.
The souls in purgatory, especially fmaily, friend and those most forgotten.
Some special intentions.

Pondering…

Mother’s Day came and went and while it was not a bad day, it was a very busy day taking care of people outside of my home. There was no time to sit and relax and the days following were no different. By Tuesday, I was at the end of my rope physically and emotionally and crying out to God for help. I made a comment about it on social media and I was touched by the friends who offered prayers and words of encouragement. It warms my heart to be a part of this universal Catholic family that knows no bounds. Plus, we have a Father that cares of us and gives us what we need just when we need it.

For me this week, it was in a form of an email from Allison Gringas. She had a Catholic Blogger Week Mega-Giveaway with numerous prizes and she told me that I was one of the winners! Guess what I won?? The gift of PRAYER… for one week I will be covered in prayer by a powerhouse woman of prayer, Elizabeth Reardon from Theology Is A Verb. God does have a sense of humor but He’s also awesome because it is JUST. WHAT. I. NEED. And let me tell you, it is working because I feel so much at peace right now. I still have a tons to do but I am in a better attitude to do it. So a big thanks to all who have prayed for me this week, most especially to Elizabeth. And thanks to Allison for having the contest in the first place. I have been going over her blog and she has some great posts, fun link ups and interesting talks. Go check it out. 🙂

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Around the House…

Yesterday the kids were not feeling well and the weather was gloomy with rain in the forecast (all .01 inches of it) so I let them stay home from school and rest. It was a blessing in disguise for me because I was able to lock myself in the house and pay bills, balance the checkbook (which hadn’t been dusted off in months) and get a mound of other paperwork done. I feel a little more caught up in that area. Now if I can tame the laundry beast, I’d be golden.

Family Chit Chat…

As I mentioned, Mother’s Day sort of came and went but I did enjoy my favorite homemade gifts from the kids, a Mother’s Day tea at Matthew’s preschool, Mass with my lovelies and gifts that included a Fandango gift card, movie candy, nail polish kit and a selfie stick. Do they know me or what? As a side note, I first saw a selfie stick being used while we were at Disneyland last year and Brian and I couldn’t stop laughing at the ridiculousness of it. But then, Karianna brought one when we attended the CWBNCA and I saw how handy it was and how easier it made taking group shots. This mocker is now a user. Thanks for the heads up, Karianna. 😉

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In the Kitchen…

As I mentioned last week, I was in a a meal planning rut so I’ve been trying to try one new recipe each week to add to our faves. This week I tried Sunday Slow Cooker: Pork Tenderloin and Apples from SlenderKitchen.com. It came out tasty and my mother-in-law loved it, which definitely pleased me since she is good cook herself. Next time around I think it may be better is I browned the meet before cooking it. (It wasn’t very “pretty.”) Plus, I got it in late so I cooked it on high and it was a little dry. Luckily, there was enough juice to pour on top to moisten it. So next time around I’ll cook it on low for a shorter period of time.

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Watching…

This week Brian told me I needed a break so he took over night duties and sent me to the movies. I used my Fandango gift card to go see The Age of Adaline. Now, I am a sucker for romantic movies but it is always a little disheartening that most movies follow the typical worldly attitude that you must sleep together first and then see if you happen to fall in love. That’s probably why I love B&W classic movies and literary adaptations (like Jane Austen) so much. The norm is first comes love, then comes marriage, then comes a baby in a baby carriage. Call me old fashioned. With that said, this movie was not different but if you can get past that and the stretch of science behind AofA, then the movie was enjoyable. It had some sweet moments and kept my interest until the end.

Listening to …

I’ve been enjoying Death Cab for Cutie’s new album Kintsugi. The song Black Sun is great for putting me in a mellow mood.

Reading…

No changes here.

For my spiritual reading…

Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World: Finding Intimacy With God in the Busyness of Life

For my fiction reading…

The Girl on the Train

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A little while ago I posted my Five Fave Podcasts. When I asked for podcast suggestions, my OLF Jen recommend that I check out SQPN. I had heard about it before but never took the time to look around. I finally did and I especially enjoyed Fr. Roderick’s show The Break. I loved it so much that I updated my list to include The Break. Like a musical Top 40 countdown, The Catholic Guy was knocked out of the Top 5. TCG moves down one notch to #6. Coming in at #5 is The Break with Fr. Roderick.

The Break

I love how Fr. Roderick talked about movies, TV shows, and geeky topics in the light of our faith. I have had fun listening to his opinions but the real moment I fell in love with him was when I watched him last month preview the newest Star Wars trailer. As a movie lover, Star Wars fan and mom of three Jedi, I thought it was awesome. 😉

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Oh, and don’t forget to enter the contest to win one of Jenna’s Mini-Hoop necklaces! Only 9 days left!

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A few things I have been reading online…

Using PicMonkey to Make Good Photos Look Great by Catholic All Year

Want to Start A Blog? 5 Tips for Beginners by Best Bib and Tucker

Fr. Junipero Serra: A Vital Part of California’s Heritage by Muffin Dome

Making Lemonade Out of Lemons by Tomato’s Vine

{May Sketch-Along}: Come Holy Spirit by The Pitter Patter Diaries

The Many Shapes of Me by Saint Affairs

Bring Truman Home

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Here are some Instagrams I’ve taken this past week. (It’s been a slow posting week.)

1. Today I’m especially thanking God for my four blessings on earth (and two blessings in heaven) that made me a mother.

2. The last few days have been really stressful and I feel like I’m at the end of my rope so this morning I’m trying to place myself in the HANDS of Our Lord. #projectblessed

3. #projectblessed – Inspiration. I’m in a cooking rut so I browsed online for some meal inspiration. Tonight it’s slow cooker pork roast with apples and onions.

4. Brian told me to take the night off so this is where I went. #passthepopcorn #projectblessed

So that’s what I’ve been up to lately! What about you? What’s currently happening in your life? Do share.

Have a great weekend!

Revolution of Love

Do small things with great love.

Category Archives: 7 quick takes

Online Daybook (7/31/15) & 7 Quick Takes: Brian Update, Confession & Movies

7 Quick Takes (7/19/15) & Answer Me This

Online Daybook (6/8/15) & 7 Quick Takes: Birthdays, Books & Movie Reviews

Online Daybook & 7 Quick Takes (5/22/15): Smog Checks, New Logos & Prompts from the Holy Spirit

Online Daybook & 7 Quick Takes (5/15/15): Stress vs Prayer, The Break & Adaline