Last Post for the Year

I have been ignoring the blog world this past few weeks.  We have been busy around here. 

Daughter's birthday party, Christmas Celebrations, and now the End of the Old Year and welcoming the New Year.

I will be returning to see my parents again this weekend.  My husband left to Mexico.  He will be there for a few weeks.

The kids go back to school on Monday. 

I have made some New Year resolutions that I plan to work on next week.  Once again, bring back order to that cluttered attic.   This time I will get rid of all the not necessary items that have accumulated up there.  Consilidating some of the christmas boxes into only one big one.   And finally organize all those toy boxes and get rid of all the broken and seldom used toys.

I hope you all have a very safe and fun end of year celebration.  Happy New Year to all of you.

Snow Trip

On Saturday we packed our car with luggage, the kids and friends and be left towards Reno, Nevada.  On our way there we stoped at a ski resort, but were told no sleds allowed there.  We continued on towards Lake Tahoe and found this place where sleds could be used and the kids had so much fun.

With us were three more families, all together we were 23 people.  12 adults and 11 kids under 16 years old.

Everyone had so much fun, riding down the hill with the sleds.  Including me.  This was not the perfect place for sled sliding.  But we all had our fun.  Later in the afternoon we arrived to Reno and stayed at the Circus Resort Inn.  The kids had so much fun playing games and winning prizes.  Had dinner at a buffet. 

My son was not feeling well by the evening.  His head was hurting and he has stomachache.  I took my kids to the hotel room and we rested there for the evening while everyone else was out having fun.  My husband left to the slot machines. 

It so happens that we were in Reno the day of the traditional Santa Crawl.  Many people were dressed in Santa outfits, Grinch, Elfs, Christmas presents. 

Next Morning we went to have breakfast at the Silver Legacy Buffet.  Then checkout from hotel and back to the snow again.

This time we took a family picture and the area was much better for sled riding.  I have a video posted on facebook. 

We arrived home at around 5 PM and we quickly unloaded the vehicles and headed to our parish.  We could not miss the Mass for Our Lady of Guadalupe.

I was very thankful that we all had a great time and no one got hurt.  We had a safe trip on the road, great weather and not to much traffic.  Hope you all had a great weekend.

Need your Prayers

After so many months, wanting to have my weekly women group, I finally got together with a few ladies and we began today.

We read the readings for today and meditated on them.  Then we talked about inviting others to join the group, when and how often to meet.

It is such a blessing for me, because I will be doing something that I have always wanted to do.  And the two ladies I met with today, have the same desire.

I ask you to pray for us, and for the many more women that will later join us. 

For now we will be meeting every week on Tuesday.  I pray that many blessings will come from this group.

 

Advent Season

We began a new Liturgical year.  The Advent season is now here.  

Around my house the colors began to change from Fall colors to Advent colors.  This is the time before Christmas.  This is my second year, starting with Advent colors before the Christmas decorations.

You can see the word HOPE on the feast table.  This has been my word for the year 2010. 

I was not able to find a pink votive candle to use for my advent candles.  So I will be using a white one this year.  I have thought of placing a pink ribbon around the votive holder, but I did not think of this until after I took the picture.

The Christmas tree is up too.  But no colors on it but gold, and under the tree, ceramic houses.

The nativity set is not out yet.  I am holding on it until after the 16th when we start the traditional posadas.  I am waiting for the image of Mary and Joseph's journey to bethlehem.  I found the perfect one at Catholic Company.com

In Mexico we called this image the "Peregrinos" or "Pilgrims".  I HOPE that it arrives before the 16th.

For my new business I wrapped  Tuperware products and will be offering to my friends and family for their Holiday shopping lists.  My director gave us this idea.  To open up a store in our homes and invite people to come in and make their holiday shopping. 

I set aside a small area in the living room and placed the wrapped gifts on a small table.


Home Project

One organizing project I did this week was the pantry.  Here is the after picture.  I made a list of all the items found in the pantry to check before  making grocery list.  This will help me see what I need and not end up with to much of one item.

I have great news! 

My brother in law, who is in Mexico waiting for his visa to be aproved.  Has been aproved his visa!  Another prayer answered!  God is so wonderful and is the best present ever for my sister and her children, just in time for the Holidays.

My niece praying for her Dad to come home.

Good things come to those who wait and trust in the Lord. 

We had another addition to my husband's family.  A baby girl!  She was born on December 2nd.  Congratulations to our niece Adriana on the birth of her daughter.

My daughter was so happy with her new baby cousin.   She is still waiting for her baby sister.  But we will wait until next year to put in the order for another addition to our family.  I do want another child.  But I am leaving things in God's hand and wait to see if it is in his plans.

I am sorry that I have not been posting as often as before.  There are days that I am so busy doing other things, that I do not have time to even turn on the computer.   But I am still here, and sometimes I quickly browse thru some posts and then quickly turn off computer. 

I hope you all are having a blessed advent time.



Happy Thanksgiving

First of all I want to thank God for the many blessings he has brought to my life this past year.

Our family celebrated Thanksgiving day at home.  I was in charge of the turkey.  My sister-in-law will bring the ham and more side dishes.

I was nervous about cooking the turkey, but everything turn out ok.

I started preparing everything starting since 8 AM in the morning.  While the turkey was in the oven, I tidy up around the house.  Had a little help from my kids. 

The turkey was ready by 1:30PM.

We had the tables set up, one for the adults and one for the kids.

Our guests did not get to the house until almost four o'clock.  By then my kids were very hungry and as soon as everyone was there they started eating.  We did not say grace.  But I am thankful that we manage to say the "Divine Mercy" Chaplet  together at 3PM just before the guest arrived.  It only take us about 10 minutes and it made a huge difference the rest of the day.

At the moment, my daughter is now in bed.  Son is watching the Incredibles movie by himself in the living room and husband is at his sister's house. 

I have already tidy up the kitchen and I am very tired. 

Just before I end this post, I will like to share with you that my daughter will be returning to school on Monday.

We saw the doctor on Tuesday.  He said everything looks good and she is able to return to school.  The next appointment will be in January.  Doctor is sure at the moment that no more surgeries will be needed in the future.  I thank God for all the blessings in my daughter's life.

I thank God for all of you praying for her.  I thank God for the wonderful family he has given me.

Thank you

New Updates

I have been away from the blog world for a few days.  It took a while to browse through all the missed posts from all the blogs I follow.

I know you have missed me.  I have missed you too. 

I have been busy.  Home blessings, family events, church events.  I have not yet had another tupperware party.  Not many people interested in hosting parties. 

I do must find someone willing to host a party.  I have a deadline to meet in order to activate my account as a consultant. 

But I have other things on the top of my priority list.

My son need help in completing homework assignments on time.  I must make some time and sit with him and help him every day. 

Yesterday, I soon as he got home.  We all first prayed the "Divine Mercy Chaplet"  Then we started on the homework.  It took us about half hour for the writing and math homework.  Then I set the timer for 30 minutes and had him read a book silently. 

No TV or video games until this was all completed, and I plan to enforce this every day. 

He is not as good in school as my daughter.  And he is not much of a reader either.  So I have to make it fun for him and get him enthusiastic about school work. 

I am finding fun ways to make homework easy and if he needs more help, I might get him a tutor.

Daughter is doing great from her surgery.  Next week we will see the doctor and find out when she may return to school. 

The holidays are soon aproaching and I have already started changing some things around the house.  I do not plan to take out any of the Christmas decorations until after Thanksgiving. 

I want to keep the Fall colors on for a little longer.  I always feel I am rushing around this days trying to have the house holiday ready. 

Have been keeping up with my daily routines.  And made changes in the home office. I still have much to do.  But I am sure I will be able to meet my goals.  As long as I stay off from distractions like computer.

So I must end now, and get back to work.

A year ago...

For those of you have been following my blog for more than a year, you know well what I am going to share with you today.

It was yesterday 11/8 a  year ago, that I had a terrible pain on my side and unable to tolerate it any longer went to the ER.   There after many tests, was told that I was pregnant but there was a problem.  The pregnancy was not found with the ultrasound machine.  Possible diagnosis, I might have an ectopic pregnancy, or its to early and the baby has yet not made it down to its proper place or perhaps this was an early miscarriage.

After two days in the hospital and many more test the following week, it was finally determined that this pregnancy terminated and most likely a miscarriage had taken place.

The following weeks were very sad for me.  Yet I found a peace in my heart and HOPE that God's plans where for everyone's good.  I did wanted to get pregnant, but perhaps this was not the proper time or perhaps my body was not ready for a pregnancy yet.

All other tests after that showed I was healthy overall and if I wanted could try again to get pregnant.

A year has passed an we have not yet decided to try again.  I was also waiting for my daughter's recuperation from her surgery.  I have been under a lot of stress over the past few months.  With  Marah's surgery being postponed and then when it was finally done, not knowing how her recovery will be.

Now, that thanks to our Lord Jesus Christ, Marah is doing so well.   She is recovering very well.  She is not in pain.  She is able to move around without assistance.  The thought has come back to my mind.  "Are we ready for another child?"  My answer should be yes.  But there is still fear and doubts in me.  I need to bring this to God in prayer, and find peace that this is the right time for another try.

My children have been asking for a baby brother or sister for a long time.  I ask you to pray for me.  That God will guide me in this very important decision.   I need to get over my fears.   God has done so many great things in my life and I still struggle with fears.  This is why I need your prayers.

Thank you for the great spiritual support you all have shown me this past months with my daughter's surgery. 

May God bless you aboundantly this coming up Holidays.

From the Archives

This were last year's punkin designs. 

This year we had two punkins too.  I decided to wait until Sunday to buy the punkins because last year we bought them a few weeks before and by halloween night they were already getting spoiled. 

Today Catholics celebrate the all Souls Day.  In Latin America, we say "Dia de los Muertos"

You can read more on this in my post from the archives Here.

Here is my All Saints Feast table.  Notice the big "Divine Mercy"  frame.  It is here in my home, visiting.  A woman lends this to families for a week.  This woman has received many blessings by praying the "Divine Mercy" chaplet and novena.  She now shares this devotion with others by letting families have the "Divine Mercy" in their homes.

 

 

These are the punkins for this year.   I carved both.  I had a little help from my son.  He helped remove all the punkin seeds, that we are going to roast for a treat later.  He also help carve the one in the bottom.  He chose the design. 

Marah chose the design for the top punkin. 

I did not take pictures of the kids costumes.  Marah was a teenage witch.  She wore a witch hat and a cape with her regular clothes.   Julian was Captain Rex from the Star Wars series.  He wore this for two Halloween parties we attended and for the harvest festival at school.  

On Halloween night, Julian wore a long tunic, from an alien costume, but since we did not have the mask he just went trick or treating without one.  Marah went also.  She could not miss the fun.  She knew her brother will not share any candy with her, so she had to go too.

I stayed home to receive the trick or treaters.  I will say about 15 kids came over to our home.  Plus our family kids that totals about 28 kids.   Most of the kids in our neighborhood go to other neighborhoods.  So I am always left with left over candy. 

I will try to visit my aunt at the cemetery today.  She is the only family member in a close by cemetary. My grandparents are in Mexico and my Mother in law.  Those are the only relatives who have passed away in our family.

This is a picture from two years ago.    The ones on the left, are my paternal grandparents.  The ones in the larger frame, are my maternal granparents.  In the smaller frame next to Our lady of Rosary is my aunt Raquel who died of cancer about 26 years ago.   And the one on the end to the right side is my mother in law.  She died in 1993.   I met my husband at the end of 1994, so I did not meet my mother in law.

Very Busy Weekend

So many celebrations coming up.  Tomorrow, Halloween is celebrated in many parts of the world. 

I had my views on this celebration over the years.  I had abstained from trick or treating for many years.  We only visited the houses of people who were family or close friends.

Every year, my neighbor celebrates her birthday  close to Halloween, so her theme is always Halloween.   All the kids  dress up in their costumes and they have a great time at the party. 

Today was her party. 

I was not home for most of the afternoon.  I had my second, Catechist training class.   Classes meet once a month.   You only get 3 chances to miss a class.  And to make up for the class, we need to read all the lesson missed and write a summary of what we read. 

I think I prefer to attend the class, then miss a class.

My husband was very upset that I left my daughter at home, and he had to take care for her.   Daughter is doing well.  She does not need much assistance.  She is able to get up on her own, and she now goes down the stairs.  Slowly but she prefers when her Dad carries her up and down the stairs.  She loves getting all the attention.

I kept calling her, every time I had a break between lessons.  That is the reason, I had a home phone installed this month.  So that she can call me anytime she needs me. 

Like today, I was at the party, outside in  my own backyard.  And she will call my cell phone, to tell me she wanted cake, and not to forget her gift for wearing a costume.

Daughter was at the party for a few hours, then she felt tired and went back inside the house. 

I came in too,  a little after.  I had to prepare my lesson for tomorrow's Faith Formation Class.  We will learning about the 12 Apostles. 

I will be posting more on what I have been teaching the kids this past few week.  We are following a bilingual book, Knowing Your Catholic Faith, Beliefs and Traditions.   published by Loyola Press.

The kids are 3rd to 6th graders.  I only have 5 kids in my class.  This are the kids that have made their First Communion and have decided to continue their Faith Formation.

I am going to bed now.  It is very late.  And Mass is at 8:30 AM.

Good Night

Back to Blogging

I have not done much of blogging, like I use to before daughter's surgery.

I have kept you updated with her recovery and that's about it.  But today I felt like talking about other issues in my life.  

And not just my life, but the whole world.  In a few days we will be going to vote for canditates for State and Local offices,  we are going to vote for proposed laws.

I wrote on my Facebook status this morning that in years  past, I really did not care about who I voted.  I did not reasearched ahead to see what the canditates views were.  Actually I went with the flow.  Who ever was more popular.  Or whomever said that they were defending the rights of Hispanic community.

Did I ever vote as a Christian should vote?   Did I ever think of what God wanted me to defend?  No.  I did not.  I admit it.  Like most of us who say we are Christian or Catholic, I will not vote like I should.

I voted for people that were for laws like abortion. 

When I finally realized, what I was doing.  I was very disgusted at myself.  I had helped many people get to office with my vote.

I used  birth control methods that were not safe for myself, and were destroying life in me.

Why I am I writing this?   Because, I must.  I must let you all know, about all the lies we have been told and we have believed for so many years. 

"You have the right of choice."  What?  I have the right to kill my own child within my womb, and live a happy life like nothing ever happened?  No, we do not have that right!

A child is a child since the moment of conception.  We look bad on people who neglect and abuse their children.  We look bad at people who abuse their pets, but we do not say anything about those who are destroying precious life with abortion laws.

How many women, wish to have the chance to be mothers and they can't have that joy.  And the ones that do have that opportunity to conceive, destroy it. 

"Lord, have mercy on us sinners!" 

I know many of you will not agree with me.  But those of you that do, please let us pray for those who are yet living the lies of the lost world.  Let us be the one to make a difference.  We can!  We can vote like God wants us to vote.  We can reach out to our family and friends.  We can do it! 

For God has not giving us a spirit of Fear.  Do not be ashamed to stand for what you believe.  For many years I was silent, and let others live their life as they wished.  But what will God say about that.  I had the chance to do something and I never did, to avoid loosing friends and family.

I thank God that my Mom, sisters and brother agree with me.  We all are now, active supporters of Life.  We walked two years ago in a local March for Life.   Even our children walked with us.  And they now at their young age that abortion is bad.

This November, I pray that Pro-Life candidates will be chosen.  There is one candidate, that on the media, her opponent has labeled  her as an Extreme canditate, because she will make abortion a crime.

Those are the candidates we need.  The one's that will defend LIFE and call abortion what it is, " A CRIME!"

Continue Recovery

One week after hospital discharge.  We continue to do good.  We went out yesterday to Walmart to shop for a new winter jacket and comfortable sweat pants to wear at home.  We only found the jacket, and Marah asked for a t-shirt of her favorite guy JB.

I still get very emotional when I see the before and after pictures.   My sister asked me to take before pictures of Marah's back so that we could see how she looked before.  I have decided not to share this pictures online.  They have been saved on a disk.  And will print out if Marah decides to ever share them with her friends in the future.

This picture was taken about a year ago.  She was wearing her brace in this picture.

 The next picture was taken today.


 

I am not sure how much taller she is now, in comparison to before surgery.  I will ask on Tuesday when she has her first after surgery appointment.  Just before she was taken to surgery room.  The nurse measured how tall she was.  So they will know exactly the difference.  From appearance, I can tell you, she looks much better.  And best of all she does not need to wear that uncomfortable plastic brace ever again. 

Glory to God our Father!  I am very thankful.  And  she is too. 

Thankful Tuesday

One week after surgery.  I finally got to take pictures of Marah.  I opted to not take pictures of her in the hospital.  I just could not take seeing her all swollen and hooked to the IVs.

Yesterday, I gave her a shower, and brushed her long hair.  And she sat on that chair to relax.  The pink color is back on her cheeks.  She looked so pale and yellowish for days.  She grew a few inches.  Actually she was stretched out into her actual height.   That is why she appears to be taller. 

All her younger cousins tell, "Marah you look so tall now!"

Her little brother tends to get on her last nerve.  She is very grouchy.  A little more than her usual self. LOL

This morning she felt like playing a prank on her Mom.  I went into her room to ask her if she needed anything and she opened her eyes wide and talked very goofy.  Like if she was loony.  I told her, "Oh no all that medicine has made my daughter loony."  She started to laugh and said she just wanted to scare me.

So her humor is back too.

Please do continue to hold her in prayer.  Surgery incisions tend to get infected, if not cared for properly.  I never saw them changing the gauze on the incision at the hospital.    There was a little spot of drainage on the top part of her back and I changed the gauze in that area again today.  She has felt very warm, I have taken her temperature and it read 99.3 F.

I keep telling her to drink lots of water, to help her not get dehydrated too.

I sure wish we had stayed a few days longer in the hospital.  But they were sure she was well and able to return home.  She will be having her post operation appointment next week.  And the doctor's nurse told me that she does not need physical therapy yet until she is much better perhaps another month.

First week, she should only walk for exercise within the house.  Should wait to go up and down stairs for at least a week.  Or until she feels stronger to do so.  She should not do any bending, twisting or lifting of any items.

What I am thankful for is that Marah has been practically pain free since the pain medication given to her through the IV was taken away.  She only complains of discomfort when she gets in and out of bed.  But on a scale for 1-10 she will always respond a 2. 

I am praying that she will be healed completely inside and out.  I trust in my Lord Jesus, that he will hear my prayer. AMEN

We are Home!!!

Last night was one of the hardest ever at the hospital.  Marah was very uncomfortable, kept waking me up every 15 minutes for something.

When nurse came in, I ask her if they could give her something.  She said they had one medicine for muscle spasms.  It is common for patients to have these days after surgery.

The medicine made her sleepy.  She was able to sleep for almost an hour after that. 

She woke up twice every two hours or so.  The nurses usually make their runs every two hours so they kept waking her up. 

I got up early to get ready for church.

Husband will take care of daughter while my son and I went to Mass and Faith formation classes. 

Mass was so beautiful today,  the readings and the Gospel spoke about prayer.

Exodus 17:8-13
Psalm 121
2 Timothy 3:14- 4:2
Luke 18:1-8

I like the reading of 2 Timothy
Beloved:
Remain faithful to what you have learned and believed,
because you know from whom you learned it,
and that from infancy you have known the sacred Scriptures,
which are capable of giving you wisdom for salvation
through faith in Christ Jesus.
All Scripture is inspired by God
and is useful for teaching, for refutation, for correction,
and for training in righteousness,
so that one who belongs to God may be competent,
equipped for every good work.

I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus,
who will judge the living and the dead,
and by his appearing and his kingly power:
proclaim the word;
be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient;
convince, reprimand, encourage through all patience and teaching.

During the prayers of the faithful.  The Priest asked the congregation to pray for Marah who was still in hospital.

Mass ended and we stayed for the Faith formation classes.  That is when Marah called me and said that Doctor had come by to see her and told her she could leave that afternoon.  Her lung was much better now.  He credited it to the breathing exercises and her being more active during the day.

But I know that it was God that made this possible.  He heard our prayer. 

I'm a litlle tired now.  I think I better go take a nap.

Your Prayers needed

We have gone through a lot this past 5 days at the hospital. 


Marah has done great progress in recovering and dealing with her pain.  She has not used pain medications much.

Her only problem now is her right lung.  It is not getting enough air and is decreasing in size due to this.  If it continues, she is in risk of pneumonia, to avoid this doctors might insert a tube to make it larger again, and we do not want this to happen. 

Her only choice now is to do breathing exercises every hour.  And walk around to bring in air to her right lung. 

Please pray that her right lung will respond to this treatment and we will not need to get that tube in her.

Your prayers have help so much.  I know that God is in control of this situation.  I continue to trust in HIM.

4th day of recovery

I have not been able to take pictures yet of her.  But I will probably do that soon. 

Day 4 in the hospital has been going well.  Marah is eating a little more.  She is walking more and sat on a chair for 40 minutes.  She is more alert, and in the mood to do more activities.  Play on computer, watch DVDs.  Our little roomate, has been very nice to her. 

Brought her craft supplies, and coloring pages.  Marah shared with her the DVDs.

I brushed Marah's long hair, and braided it on the side to avoid being on her back while laying on bed.  The IVs will be removed soon and she will now be on oral medication for pain control.

Doctor says, that if she continues to do well she may go home by tomorrow at latest Sunday.

They want her to walk without holding on to the walker or assistance.

She will be doing more walking this afternoon and sitting more on chair to help her digestive system normalize.

Out of all the patients with similar surgeries in the hospital she has done very good in recovering.

I thank God for making this possible.

Day 3 of Recovery

Marah continues to make progress in her recovery, yet they are some concerns. 

One of her lungs is not getting enough air and had become smaller than the other lung.  She needs to do special breathing exercises to help her lung.   All night she did not do this exercises.  She has to blow into a tube and lift a small marker up and down at least five times every two hours.

Another concern is her lack of appetite, she does not want to eat anything.  Thinking she will throw up or it will hurt her throat.   Marah needs to eat to help her in her quick recovery.

My husband is with her at the moment.  He has been very supportive this 3 days, but will return to work tomorrow.  During weekend my Mom and sisters will come to help me.

Son is doing great.  I called him a short while ago to check if he had done his homework.  He said all he needs to do is today's homework, but they are on their way to the park to play.  I will probably take him to the hospital later in the evening to see his sister.  Husband will come home and I will stay with Marah during the night. 

We got to see an image of Marah's xrays after surgery.  Her operations procedure is called scoliosis fusion.  I will take pictures of her probably today or tomorrow.  The swelling of her face has gone down.  There is one huge difference.  Her posture is now straight,  even the lump on her back is less than before.  I say, hardly noticeable with her gown on. 

Doctor says, it will get better as she continues to grow and if she gains a little weight. 

The Surgery

Hi Everyone!  Marah's surgery was done yesterday.  It started at 9:30 AM and lasted for 7 hours.  I was able to see her around 6 'oclock in the evening.

She was a little swollen from her face but was talking and responding to all the nurses questions.  Then slowly faded into sleep for a few minutes than she will say something.  It was quite hard for me to see her like that.  But slowly she began to be more responsive and her swollen face looked much better.

I spent the night at the hospital next to her bed.  I slept for a few hours than will be awaken by the nurses talking to Marah. 

She did well during the night without any pain medicine.  She still had a little of the medicine that was given right before closing her incision.

This morning she woke up with a little fever.  Some chest x-rays were done at around 4 AM to make sure her lungs are doing well. 

Today she began her physical therapy sessions.  The therapist made her sit on the side of the bed with out back support and she also stood for like 30 seconds.  It made Marah a little uncomfortable but she did great.  Tomorrow she will start taking a few steps. 

I am truely amazed on how fast she is recovering.  Thanks to all your prayers and the powerful healing hand of God.

When she is able, I will have her write a post to tell you how she feels. 

She looks so much better,  I think she even grew a few inches.  Actually, her body was straighten from the curvature scoliosis was causing in her spine.  So it seems that she got taller. 

I am home, taking a break, while her dad is with her at hospital.  I am supposed to be taking a nap, to return to hospital rested and take my turn by her bedside.

Impossible for me to do that.  I washed the dishes, made some calls, answered calls, took a shower and updated profile on Facebook and MySpace.  And now I am writing this blog.

Picture was taken before she was given the happy medicine.  The one that gets them all goofy just before anesthesia.  And she is was looking at a poster of her favorite guy, JB.

Can wait to show you pictures of the after surgery.  None of her face swollen.  I will make sure she is dressed in a more atractive gown.  She keeps saying that when she gets older, she is going to design fashionable scrubs and gowns for hospital patients.

Surgery tomorrow

The day has finally arrived.  Tomorrow is the big day for my daughter's surgery.  This time we will be arriving at hospital at 6 AM, and the surgery will take place at 8 AM.  First patient for doctor.

I honestly want this to be over with.  I have been waiting, anticipating this day for quite a long time.  My daughter needs this surgery.  Her time off the brace, has shown some difference in her body.  Her spine looks so crooked and people have been asking what is wrong with her. 

Before while wearing her brace her posture was more straight  and no one ever noticed anything.  But now they see her without her brace and that big hump on her back. 

I am so glad that no one in her school, has made any bad comments about it.  They have asked her, but nicely.  

Daughter continues to show great courage and never has she expressed to be stressed or anxious about her surgery.  In a way she is happy that she will have some time off school.  For a A students is strange to hear this.   But she says she does not like school.

I will be coming by the school today to sign the Independent studies contract with her teacher.  I know we will not be doing any school work the first week after surgery, but as soon as she gets home from hospital we will start her home studies.  Which means I will become a homeschool Mom.  Yeah.  I am going to need lots of good tips from all you homeschool Mom of six graders. 

My sister, just brough us a pack of books for Marah.  Marah loves reading.

I will try to update as soon as possible on Marah's surgery. 

Thank you for your prayers.

Our Lady of the Rosary

October is the Month dedicated to the Our Lady of the rosary.  As you can see in the above pictures I made some changes in my living room decor colors.  I added some fall colors to the feast table.
Today is the feast day of our Lady of the rosary.  This month is filled with lots of feast days for most of the most popular saints.  St. Therese (Oct.1), St. Francis of Asisi ( Oct. 4), St. Faustina and Teresa of Avila.

 I found at my local Ross, images of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Our Lady of Guadalupe, St. Francis of Asisi, Our Lady of Fatima, and the Divine Mercy.  All for under $10 each.  That is a savings of more than $12 dollars each.  They are made of a resin material, light weight same height as the St. Therese image in the pictures.

I have not taken pictures of them yet, but you will be seeing pictures of each one in later months for their feast day. 

Tomorrow is my first Tupperware party as a consultant.  I am a little nervous, but hopefully it will go well.  I still do not have my actual sales kit yet.  My friend is letting me borrow her kit, for tomorrow.

Discernment

Psalm 119

66 Teach me wisdom and knowledge, for in your commands I trust.

71 It was good for me to be afflicted, in order to learn your laws.

125 I am your servant; give me discernment that I may know your decrees.

130 The revelation of your words sheds light, gives understanding to the simple.

2 Timothy 1:7 says, " For God has not given us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self control.

Reading the word of God is "eye opening" at times.  God reveals to us a message through his word.  

I had been neglecting "quiet time" in the word this past week.  I know that if I read the bible daily, it helps me to keep focus and not easily get distracted.  But on those days, I do not read the bible first thing in the morning.  I easily get distracted by other things and soon forget completely to spend my time in the word of God.

This past Friday, I ask God to forgive me for not spending time in his word.  I also asked him to show me ways that I can be a blessing to others.

Later in the day on Friday.  I decided to call a friend and ask her if she would like to see the new catalog of Tupperware product.  Somehow the call got disconnected and I was not able to talk to her.  A few minutes later she called back.  I ask her, how she was doing and she told me she was sad.  I sensed it was not a good time to say anything regarding my call.   

I asked her why she was sad.  She told me that her father was having surgery at that time and that she felt bad because she could not be at the hospital with the rest of her family.  I offered to come by her house to spend time with her and we could pray for her father.

In a way God had put this person's name in my mind.  If I had decided not to call her, I will probably had missed the chance to be a blessing in someone's life.  It also helped me in many ways.  I soon as I walked into her house, I saw the above image on her wall.  This image is called the "The Divine Mercy"   

Jesus appeared to a nun named St. Faustina.  He told her that he desired an image to be made of him as he appeared to her.  The rays are water and blood flowing from the heart of Jesus.  He wants us to know that he is merciful.  You can read more on this image on EWTN's website.

I stayed with my friend for almost two hours.  She told me she felt so much at peace.  I told her to call me anytime she needed anything.  I was glad to spend time with her and pray for her father.  I told her not to worry that God had everything under control and everything will be fine.  

After I left her house, I drove to the kids school, and while I waited for them to come out.  I prayed the Divine Mercy chaplet.  When I got home, I lighted  a candle and asked my children to pray for my friend's father.  They know her children well. My friends son is in the same classroom as my daughter's.

Later in the evening, my daughter and I went to church.  It was the first day at our parish for the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament.  Only four people showed up.  Our priest had to leave early.  My daughter and I stayed for almost and hour.  It was a very peaceful time.  The choir director, sang a few songs.  And he also guided us in prayer.  Our priest also prayed aloud.  He asked for the youth in our neighborhood.  The kids in gangs.  For the parents of this young people.

I prayed silently in my heart.  Had so much to ask the Lord.  I prayed for my friend's father, my daughter, my relatives.  I thanked God for the blessings in my life.

I love spending time with God in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament.  I hope that my children will also love to spend time with God and visit him often.  

Back in Business

I am officially a Tupperware consultant.  Today, I hosted my first initial party in my home. 

Had 8 ladies in attendance.  Learned lots of great tips for selling and for using the product.

Most of all, I had fun.  And that is what counts.  Getting together with a few ladies, introducing them to a great product and give them also the opportunity to start their own business or host their own party for the chance to win great gifts that are truly useful.

Like I told them, I am not trying to make money out of you.  All I want is to meet new people and have a great time, and at the same time we can win great prices.

The extra income is not needed in this house.  But I do plan to save some money to give my children the opportunity to a great summer vacation in Florida.   This money will be invested in me and my children.  And yes, part of it will be available for sponsoring children.  And to help great causes such as the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation,  The Breast Cancer Foundation, and other foundations such as St. Joseph Hospitals and Children's Hospitals.   And last but never least, to God and our Church.

What are my dreams for me.   First of all I want to go to a Spa.  I want to do things I have never done but I always wanted to do.   I will be able to pay my tuition to continue my theology classes. And  perhaps next year for summer we can visit the Holy Land.  I always wanted to do that too.

I will not be selling online yet, until I have a website account.  They do offer this  option with Tupperware.  But first I want to try this locally with the people I know at the moment.

Changing subject, I bought a new gadget for my kitchen.  I have been wanting a waffle maker for a long time.  So I found a small machine that makes waffles, omeletts, donuts, and its also a grill.

Tried it this morning.  Made the batter for the waffles and pour it on there.  But forgot to add some oil to the plates before pouring the batter and the waffles stuck to the plates.  I had to remove them and soak them in water.  Meanwhile I placed the omelet plates in the machine and this time added the a little bit of oil to the plates before warming them.  The omelett came out good.  And since I already had the pancake batter, I pour that on the  omelett  plates and made nice fluffy pancakes in the shape of and omelett.

One last thing before I end this post.  The countdown begins again.  I can't believe how fast time goes by.  Two weeks have gone by fast.  And now we only have two more weeks before my daughter's surgery.  So I will keep you updated on what the doctors say.  They told me that we will have some appointments before.  So I think I better call them just to remind them about it.  Hope you all have a great week.

unexpected events

You are wondering what this is.  It is a photo copy made with the rays of the sun.  My daughter calls it a miracle.  I had placed a cut out of a dove on top of a red card paper.  And then placed it on my window as a display for Pentecost. 

When I removed it from the window, I took the white dove away before discarding the red paper, but I found this.  We are now keeping it as a sign that good things are coming our way.

Yesterday, I decided to wash all my big, heavy, bed covers at the laundromat.  Since winter will be here in a few more months, I want to have them ready.   I used two large washers.  $5.75 each.  It took about 45 minutes to finish the cycle. 

Just before getting to the laundromat, I visited a local electronic store, in search for a small vacuum to clean the stairs and car.  We already have a big canister vacuum but its to heavy to carry up the stairs.  I had bought another smaller one, but it did not do the job well. 

I bought a small, cord vacuum. It worked very good.  I have already vacuum the stairs and one car with it.

This morning, I drove quickly to the grocery store to buy bread and turkey deli meat for sandwiches.  I searched for my debit card and couldn't find it.  The last time I used the card was at the electronics store.  I searched everywhere, in my house, purse, and car.  Checked sweaters and pant pockets. Nothing.   Before calling the bank to cancel the card and request a new one, I went to the electronic store.

There is a nice man at the door, always greeting everyone when they come in.  He said, "Can I help you with something?"  I told him, that I had been there yesterday.   "I used my debit card to purchase something,but this morning I could not find it."  He ask me, my name, and name of bank.  I told him, my name and bank name.  He then opened up a drawer with a key and brought out the card. 

Thank you, Jesus!  I was so happy and relieved.  No debits where made after I last used the card, and the card was found and put away in a safe place.  

Another unexpected thing happened  this morning.  I saw, my former Tupperware manager, at my niece's pre-school.   Usually my sister-in-law takes the kids to school in the mornings and I pick them up after school.  But rarely do I go to the pre-school.

Anyways, I saw this lady there.   She invited me to a Tupperware meeting.   I said, "sure why not, when is it? ", "Today", she responded.   I did not have anything else to do this morning, so I went with her.  I had lots of fun.  Met some new people and got to see all the new products that Tupperware has now.

The hostess of the party told us her testimony of how she started selling Tupperware.  Some other ladies gave their testimony too. 

I like Tupperware products, I have lots of it in my house.  I even have a bin full of unused inventory from when I was a consultant.  But now, there is so many new things and in very nice colors.   I know its a little bit costly but it is a good product, that lasts for a long time. Well, if you do not allow anyone to take it home with food in it.  Because then, it will probably won't come back. 

So I might get back into selling tupper again.  I really do not need extra income.  If I do, is to do something, and meet new people.  Plus I get to choose my own hours.

I am hosting a party next Wednesday.  Inviting some of the ladies from the kids school and my neighbors.

Well, you see sometimes your day has some unexpected detours.  Not always do things go like you had planned.  Perhaps, it might be even better. 



Chore charts

In my search to find the perfect chore chart system that works, I found this great creative idea over at
Such Treasure

I am hoping this one works I will give it a test drive for a week and report on the progress.  I added some extra thing to this chart.  The reward dollars.  Actually paper play money used as reward points.

We had been using this in the past.  They are able to use the reward points for special privileges, such as TV time, computer time and video games.

I used blue cards for Julian and teal for Marah.  Extra chores are in white index cards and written in purple marker.

I have another plastic pouch near the huge calendar with behavior cards.  green for good, yellow for mild, and red for bad.  If the kids get a yellow card, they are not allowed to use their rewards until all chores are completed.  If they get a red card.  They are not allowed to use their rewards and they get an extra chore.  Until all chores are completed, the card will return to green and they are able to use their reward points.

They will be getting one dollar, per chore completed.  They have about 11 cards each, per day.  Play dollars are actually have an actual a value of 25 cents each.

Its been quiet here

I have not posted much in the last few days.  I have been busy preparing for my first day of teaching class after a year of rest. 

The students have already made their first communion, and are in the class to continue their Faith formation.

Included among them is my pre-teen daughter. 

Today was the first day.  I have an assistant.  She is an Eucharistic minister and prepares young girls for their Quinceneras (15 birthday celebration).   I allowed her to give part of the lesson for today.  I want to learn how she teaches the children, I believe she has more knowledge and experience.

Even though I was the one who prepared the materials for the lesson, I want to give her the chance to sow her seed in the life of each of this children.

Our first lesson today was, God created the Universe.  We read part of the story in the book of Genesis.  I downloaded an activity from one of the blogs for this lesson.  It is a Creation Wheel.  I found  the link at the Catholic toolbox blog.  You can find the link on my side bar.

I also gave the students their own binder with side pockets to place all their worksheets, they will be doing in class.  Our lesson was from the Sadlier Bilingual Program texbook, Our Catholic Faith.

 I  also gave them their own journal.  I told them to spend one day per week, in quiet time with God in his word, and write a few sentences on what they think God is telling them in the Bible.  If they feel like sharing in class they may do so. 

I will be giving the children,  extra bonus assignments, to complete by the end of the school year so that they may get special rewards.  One is to learn the books of the Bible.  And for the younger children the names of the Apostles.

I hope that this children have a fun learning experience this year and share with other children so that more children will join the class next year.  There is only six children enrolled in the class this year.

One more thing I want to share with you today is that my sister, got in contact with a young girl who has had the same kind of surgery that my daughter will have next month.  This young girl has been doing very good after her surgery and its very thankful to the surgeons.  We have her contact information and I will be calling her mother to get some tips on how to deal with after surgery recovery. 

This is what I had requested the doctors.  That I wanted my daughter to speak with other young girls about their surgeries to give my daughter encourgement.

I am thankful that this is a God divine connection.  My sister met this girl's mom at a Charismatic  service a few years back.  Today my sister saw them again at Mass and ask them how they were doing?  They told my sister that this girl had her surgery at the same hospital were my daughter will have her surgery. Because that's were the doctor, specializing in this kind of surgery works.  We think it might be the same doctor assigned to my daughter's case.

Once again, God is in complete control of everything.  He knows what is best for my daughter and we are hopeful that everything will go well next month. 

I am ending for now, I am going over to my in-laws house a few houses down the block. 

Have a very blessed Sunday evening.

Gratitude

"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good."- Psalm 118:1

Getting back to my normal routines.  I had tried to leave everything as clean as possible before the surgery date.  Because I knew that I will be at the hospital for most of the day with daughter, until husband was able to come and stay with  her so that  I will have some time with my son. 

Since the surgery did not take place as scheduled.  Everything return to its normality.  The kids went to school.  And I stayed home to update everyone by emails, phone calls, and texts.

I did something different today.  I exercised.  Second time this week, that I play an exercise video and workout in the comfort of my home.   I am such a procrastinator in taking care of my own health.  I did not start this exercise workout for the goal of losing weight.  I do have some extra bundles here and there, but I have learned to be happy with my image.  I do want to exercise for other reasons. 

The exercise, helped me to focus on something else.  It kind of relaxed me.  I set the timer for only 30 minutes, even though the video lasted 45 minutes.  I ended doing the last 15 minutes after all.  It was a simple routine and I was following the person doing the steps for beginners.  Still I felt I was working at a higher level.  

After the exercise, I took a break and sat at computer desk , browsed through emails, facebook and myspace.

Then I had breakfast.  A delicious protein shake with a piece of fresh cantaloupe. 

After breakfast, I started tiding up each room. And did some loads of laundry.

I did get a couple of calls from family.  One special call from a friend who also has her daughter in hospital.  Her two year old daughter had cancer in her liver and was operated a few months ago.  But recently she returned to hospital because of an infection with some tubes used to administer the medicines to her body.  She will be discharged from hospital hopefully on Sunday. 

I was so grateful for this mother for taking the time and calling me to inquiry on my own daughter.  She gave me the strength  to keep believing that everything will go well.  I told her that if possible I will come by tomorrow to visit her daughter at the hospital.

My heart goes out to all those mothers who are suffering with the illness of their child. 

I understand what you are going through.  I hope and pray that soon the answer to our prayers will come.

In Jesus, name. Amen.

Important Update

Surgery was postponed. 

Due to Doctor's busy schedule and complications with another case.  He decided to cancel the surgery for today, and re-schedule.

We arrived at the Hospital at 8:45 AM.  By 9:15 we had registered and the nurse checked my daughter, gave her a gown, and told us to wait for anesthesiologist.  Time went by. 

We had been told that surgery will take place two hours after arrival.  It was past 11 AM, no anesthesiologist, no doctor.  The wait continued and daughter began to get inpatient.  Logical, she was practically fasting. 

I prayed, lots of prayers.  I gave her prayers to read and pray on her own.

I held her in my arms for a long time.  Kept praying and waiting for the someone to show up, and tell us they were ready for surgery prep.

The doctor came in at about 12:30 PM.  Took pictures of her back, marked the incision site and told us, it will be soon.  Another half hour passed.

Then another medical assistant came in the room.   And told us that the surgery was canceled.

My daughter was so happy!  She could not wait to get dressed and go home and eat.

We are still waiting for Doctor's confirmation on next surgery date.  It will probably be soon, because of the urgency of her case.   Hoping next time, everything will go as planned and no long waiting period.

I now know that the surgery will take about six hours.  

I feel bad for my family members who took the day off from work.  I have pictures of daughter in her hospital gown and a picture of family in waiting area.  They were taken with phones, so I need to figure out how to upload them. 

The good thing about this experience, was that I was able to text messages to my family while they were waiting.  They were about to go to Aunt Mary's to eat her yummy curry chicken , when I told them the news.

We all ended up going to aunt Mary's house together. 

I will keep you posted on the next date for the surgery.

God bless you and thank you for your prayers. 

9th Day of Novena

Today, I conclude the nine day novena to Our Lady of Sorrows.  I was using one from the Oblate Missions website.

Along with one from the United States Conference Catholic Bishops website.

A Novena to Our Lady of Sorrows, Pdf form

This is one of the prayers, I said daily for mothers.

Holy Mother of God,

hear the prayers of the Church

for all mothers,

especially those wearied by life

and overcome by the suffering

 they bear for their children.

Hail Mary...

O Mother of the Word Incarnate,

intercede for them

from your place in heaven,

that the mercy of your divine Son

might lighten their burden

 and give them strenght.

Hail Mary...

Glory to the Father, and the Son

and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be forever. Amen.

9th Day Prayer from the Oblate Missions.



O Lord, You never promised us to take away our darkness.
You never promised us that you would take away the struggles
of our everyday living. Father, You did promise us to be our
light in times of darkness and to give us strength in times of need.


Help us not to be blind to your light nor blind to your presence.
Give us strength during times of trials and tribulations, and keep
us and our families always united in your name.


Give us the serenity to accept without bitterness all those things
we cannot change. Give us the hope to see beyond ourselves
that we may always accept your will and trust in your holy presence.


In your goodness you have given us our very lives. We entrust
into your hands and into your gracious care those lives you
have given to us and we pray all of this in Jesus' name, Amen.


I thank you all for your prayers and encouraging comments.  I will try to update as soon as its possible on my daughter condition after the surgery.

Today's Catholic feast day,  the exaltation of the Holy Cross.

Tomorrow the feast of our Lady of Sorrows.   It amazes me how God chose two Marian dates for  my daughter.   Her baptism in the Catholic Church was on August 15, 1999. The Assumption of Mary feast day. 

Mary is a very special intercessor for mothers.  No one like her knows the pain and suffering of losing a child.  To see her Son suffering on the cross was a like a sword  pierced in her heart. (Luke 2:35)  She understands our pain and suffering.  She consoles us in our times of grief.  And rejoices with us in our times of joy.  She is our heavenly Mother.
Jesus I trust in You!

The Day is coming!

The long awaited day is coming. 

Daughter's surgery date. 

I started cleaning her room well, and getting this house in order before Wednesday.  I will be spending most of the day at the hospital with daughter.  So I would not have time to keep up with house chores the rest of this week. 

I already spoke with my sister-in-law to take care of my son.  And for someone to pick him up, after school.

I have to also talk with my daughter's teachers for  Independent studies at home while daughter recovers from surgery.

I will probably not post anything until Thursday, if I am able to have access to the internet.  Or I will ask one of my sisters to post a quick update for me.

Thank you for your prayers. 

Day 7 Prayer

Day 7 Prayer, Healing Novena  Oblate Missions

God, Father; Your Son, Jesus, blessed the sick, the suffering,

the persecuted and those in mourning giving them the power

to transform the world. You have chosen us to be a part

of your creation. You love us not on the basis of age,

nor education, nor accomplishment. You love us because

we belong to you with all our frailties and with all our hopes.

Through our sickness and powerlessness, you invite us

to turn to you as the center of all life.



Transform, O Lord, our weakness into blessing by

enabling us to reach out and touch others who are

too busy to care, to blind to see, to deaf to hear.



Make of us, O Lord, a wounded healer in your name and

in your world by proclaiming the truth that it is more important

to love than to complain, it is more important to trust than to fear,

it is more important to believe than it is to be important.

And we pray all of this in Jesus' name, Amen.

My Family

Here are some recent pictures taken of my family at family events.


Remember that picture I shared with you of my Mom's family. Well this is an updated picture taken in June, at my cousin's 25th wedding anniversary.

From left to right: Uncle Blas, Uncle Gildo, My Mom Lupe, Aunt Mary, Uncle Hector, Ungle Rigoberto, and Uncle Juan.  ( missing in the picture, Uncle Gabriel and Uncle Ruben)

                                                             Sam and Monica's Wedding.

The Groom and Bride with groom's parents.

The entire extended family.

I'm the second one from the left.

Our family picture

Gris, Idalia, Erica, Mom, Rosario (me), and Ernie

Yes, Dad is missing, not sure why?

He was also at the wedding. 

I guess we have to take another picture again to make it perfect.

5th day of Novena

A special prayer for the families affected by this terrible tragedy in San Bruno, California.

This city is about 30 minutes away from where I live.

For the victims, the survivors, and those in the hospitals critically injured.  Lord help them.

For the fire fighters on duty, Lord help them to turn off the remaining fires, to avoid more damage to other neighborhoods.  Protect them.

In Jesus name, we ask this, Amen.

Prayer for 5th day of Novena, from the Oblate Missions website.

God, our Heavenly Father, we truly learn to
 appreciate the light only in the measure that
 we've been exposed to the darkness.

We truly learn to value what we have only to
 the degree that we have been affected by its loss.

Gradually and ever so slowly our illnesses
 have become our teachers.  We feel a sense
 of urgency to live each day to the fullest
 because today is the time to flourish,
 to expand, to discover.

We have the need to do all those things
 we used to procrastinate about.  
We need to speak the words we've
been afraid to say before.

In our illnesses we get in touch with the heart
 of life 
as people have become so important 
and as we realize that the smallest
things in life are indeed the greatest.

Our disappointments have become a revelation
 and our silence has turned into worship of you.  
We thank you and we praise you today.  Amen.