Box Full of Blessings - Jen Nate Raiche

"Walking on the Sea"

2010-01-06T23:09:00.004-06:00

As I look to the future. I realize that I am held back by my past, whether I consciously realize it or not. I often make resolutions or commitments to become better or to do things differently. Then, right away or maybe a day or so later, I am reminded of my past. Then it's easy to become discouraged. Afterall, I have failed so much in the past.

However, God changes all of this.

Borrowing from a homily I heard on New Year's Day, allow me to illustrate. In the late 1800's President Rutherford B. Hayes made a phone call from Washington to Pennsylvania on Alexander Graham Bell's telephone. After the call, the president remarked:

It's an amazing invention--but who would ever want to use one?

Or, when Sir John Eric Ericksen, British surgeon, appointed Surgeon- Extraordinary to Queen Victoria 1873 remarked:

The abdomen, the chest, and the brain will forever be shut from the intrusion of the wise and humane surgeon

In 1977, Ken Olson, president, chairman and founder of Digital Equipment Corp., said:

There is no reason anyone would want a computer in their home.

All of these predictions seemed intelligent at the time they were spoken. Given the past information of each person, they saw no reason the future would be much different.

In today's Gospel reading, Mark tells the story of Jesus walking on water.

About the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them walking on the sea. He meant to pass by them. But when they saw him walking on the sea, they thought it was a ghost and cried out. They had all seen him and were terrified.

Jesus then gets into the boat and reassures them. We know from the Gospel of Matthew, that Jesus again walks on water, and this time, invites Peter to join him (Mt 14:29).

Peter and the other fishermen cannot believe Jesus is doing these things. Based on all of their past knowledge, they cannot image a man walking on water. However, here he is.

It is easy to look to our human knowledge and realize how ridiculous or difficult something may be. However, if we look at the future with only a human lens, we're only seeing a partial picture.

This is where God comes in. Truly, we are weak. And he is strong. The grace he gives us through the sacraments is life changing--if only we take the time to truly see what we are doing. And, if we are humble enough to realize that we need his help in order to do some heavy lifting. His is so strong, in fact, that he can give us the leverage we need in our lives to make a change. A heroic change. A miraculous change. Afterall, miracles aren't just for the bible. They're for us. Today.

With God, the future can be unimaginable.

God's Hand

2009-12-28T09:45:00.002-06:00

At times, when looking towards the future, it is difficult to see God's plan for your life. However, for me, when I look back at the events in my life, I can clearly see how He's guided me towards this or away from that.

One event that God truly guided me to was meeting and marrying my best friend. I can see clearly how certain instances occurred that brought us together.

After we were married, He then asked that we be open to children. What a blessing the 4 boys have been to our lives. Each day, they need us to be better people and better parents. Each day, we question what we're doing and how it will impact them. Each day, we pray for and (God-willing) guide them to a life of holiness.

And, as we look to the future, the details may be murky. One constant remains, however--God will guide us., just as He has throughout our lives. We only need to be open and look to Him for the answers.

Happy Anniversary, Nate!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T16:22:00.000-06:00

May you know the joy, peace and love of Christ today and always.

And, don't forget to spread it to others, too!

2 Days Before Christmas

2009-12-23T09:33:00.000-06:00

How could I resist?

Public Property

2009-12-21T10:37:00.001-06:00

The boys are watching The Year Without Santa Claus. The movie is essentially twaddle, but there is one line that struck me:

Mayor's Assistant - Sir? There's a citizen here to see you.

Mayor - Doesn't he know he doesn't belong here? This is public property!

The irony in that line is too much. After recent news that Nebraska Senator Ben Nelson sold out on the healthcare bill, I'm thinking many public servants feel similarly.

48% of Americans do not want the government taking over healthcare.

60% of Americans seek a ban on using federal funds to pay for abortions.

AND

Nearly 10% of Americans are out of work.

For some reason, the most important thing the government feels it must do is not only to pass a healthcare bill, but one that demands tax payer coverage for abortions.

Christmas is almost upon us; the season of hope. I am choosing not to despair, but rather to spread His hope, joy, love and peace into the world. One pro-abortion democrat at a time.

Seven Quick Takes

2009-12-18T18:14:00.000-06:00

We received a Christmas card from Nate's employer the other day. On the inside it said:

Keeping the Holidays green,

one greeting at a time.

I am sure there is a deeper meaning I can extract from the message, but right now, it's escaping me.

[ 2 ]

I'm introducing a new segment to the blog entitled: "Boys with Cameras". Our camera is a simple point-and-shoot and they really enjoy taking it around the house to capture life. Here's a snippet to whet your appetite.

[ 3 ]

As I posted here, we we graced with a LOT of snow early last week (I spent more time with the shovel than I did with my husband that day!). The weekend after wasn't too cold, so we took to the hills for some sledding!

[ 4 ]

This weekend, I also made a batch of Gingerbread People (it seems, even our cookies are politically correct these days). This recipe always turns out fabulously! For those that want to try: bake the cookies on parchment paper and, before putting them in the oven, take a dry rag or cloth, and brush off the excess flour you used when rolling out the dough (preserves the brown color of the cookie rather than a dusty whitish brown). The boys love frosting and decorating these.

[ 5 ]

Grandma gave us a family-sized mixing bowl for St. Nick's Day. Yesterday, we all enjoyed using it as we watched a movie.

[ 6 ]

This week, we had Kolbe's cub scout Den over to our house for homemade pizza. They learned about the food pyramid and we made pizza from scratch. The other boys in the Den had never made homemade pizza before. It's easy to take the simple pleasures in life for granted, as we make homemade pizza all the time. We were glad to open our home and our pizza dough to new found friends.

[ 7 ]

Tonight, we're bundled up and watching A Christmas Carol. May you enjoy your weekend! Ours will entail some Christmas shopping, the procurment of a Christmas ham, putting up the tree, sledding, and (hopefully) some relaxing for Mom and Dad.

Family Christmas Movies to Pass On

2009-12-16T12:33:00.002-06:00

This time of year, many families spend quality time snuggling up and watching movies appropriate for the season. However, as my own children are growing (our oldest is 6) I am taking a second look at many popular movies that are branded "family friendly".

Home Alone

(1990)

Premise - The story of a young boy, Kevin McCallister, who is accidently left behind when his family leaves for Christmas vacation. At first, he's enchanted with his new found freedom (eating ice cream and watching movies that may give him nightmares are some of the indulgences he enjoys). However he soon learns that two bumbling burglars are planning to rob his house. He creatively sets up booby-traps to foil their plans. The police--and his parents--arrive in the nick of time, and Kevin realizes that he values being with his family more than perceived freedom.

Grade - C+

Rationale - While any child would revel in the fact that they're free to do as they please and then get to defend their domicile against burglers, the story glorifies characteristics that aren't noble. Kevin often talks back to his parents, he despises his siblings (who mistreat him at every instance) and has contempt for adults in general. There are a few instances of bad language, a reference to pornography, As an overall trend, it seems that from 1990 onward, many movies were made where children are the heros and adults are viewed as less intelligent, uncooperative, and, at times, villainous. Unfortunately, this movie does so as well.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas

(2000)

Premise - The original Seuss cartoon is not in-depth or reflective on Christ as the meaning of Christmas in any way (nor was it written to be, which isn't necessarily a bad thing). This version had an uncaring Grinch who was selfish and mean. He wants to steal Christmas because of the Who's loud noise and singing. He hopes to rob them of their Christmas and takes their gifts, decor and food. However, although he takes the tangibles of Christmas, it still comes, just the same. He learns that Christmas is more than presents and food. His heart then grows three sizes larger, returns all of the stolen goods, and joins the Who's for roast-beast dinner.

This remake is a big budget film with Jim Carey starring as the Grinch. This rendition paints the Grinch as a boy who grew up in Whoville, and was teased incessantly for being different. He tried to live a "normal" life amongst the Whos, however they teased and tormented him so much that he flees the town and lives a secluded life in the mountains. When a small Who knocks on his door and invites him back to town, he has a chance to re-join society. He does so, and is laughed out of town. Thus he hatches a plan to steal Christmas--a day that the Whos love more than anything. At first, the Whos are miserable. Then, a townsmen reminds the mayor that Christmas is about Spirit--something the Grinch could not steal! They ascend upon the Grinch's cave and partake in Christmas dinner with him, with the Grinch carving the roast-beast.

Grade - D

Rationale - The story is old, tried, and not lasting. As an added bonus, interwoven throughout the thin story, are costumes that are not appropriate, sexual connotations, implied illicit encounters, and a Christmas that focuses on food, decor, and gifts--and past girlfriends! Check out Steve Greydanus' f unny and right-on review at decentfilms.com.

Stay tuned for a few Christmas movie recommendations not to pass up!

"C" is for Cookie

2009-12-11T15:05:00.000-06:00

Tree Negotiations

2009-12-10T16:07:00.001-06:00

Today, at lunch, I thought I'd propose my Christmas tree plan to the head of our household.

Her: I'm thinking about putting up a small tree this year.

Him: [[ grimmacing ]]

Her: You know? Something small. We could put it up on the buffet. Up, away from the toddlers.

Him: We might as well not even put up a tree then.

Her: Well, Marcel is kind of a beast right now, and Jerzy is out of control.

Him: Um...

Her: Or, [[ stretching for a compromise ]] we could put up a big tree with homemade ornaments that we don't care if the boys destroy.

Him: Or, [[ smiling ]] let's just put up a great big tree, with all of our decorations, and then I'll leave and go to work.

I think he was only half-teasing. We're still negotiating. I'm thinking of employing sanctions if he keeps reminding me that he gets to go to work while I maintain peace between the toddlers and the tree. In our house, the toddlers usually win.

Afterall, we've have had some very harried experiences with trees.

The Weather

2009-12-09T11:56:00.000-06:00

Outside

Inside

7 Quick Takes

2009-12-04T10:51:00.001-06:00

[ 1 ]

We are getting a new stove on Saturday. Nate was walking through Lowe's, and saw a stove someone returned due to a minor issue. The issue was fixed, and the price was $120 off. This makes me truly thankful. Our current stove has a broken seal on the door. If the oven is on for any length of time, the door is very hot. With Jerzy walking around all the time, I have to barricade the oven door with kitchen chairs so he doesn't accidently burn himself. Thank you, God, for the ability to purchase a new, safer stove for our family.

[ 2 ]

We took the boys bowling last weekend with some of our extended family. They. Loved. It. I think we've discovered a new family activity. Kolbe was really into keeping score. Jozef was really cute as he tried to talk to push an 8lb. ball down the alley. Marcel threw 3 or 4 times and had enough--the arcade games were calling his name. Jerzy enjoyed watching and playing with the balls a bit. We will certainly be taking at least the "big 2" boys bowling sometime soon.

[ 3 ]

We have our Advent wreath up. There is something captivating about lighting a candle and praying as a family. The early darkness of the season perpetuates the effect of waiting; waiting for the Light to come into the darkness. The boys really enjoy saying the prayers each night. I'd like to say praying is the highlight for them. However, deciding whose turn it is to light and extinguish the candles captures most of their attention. I know they're still so young yet. In time, they will treasure this tradition as we do. They're really looking forward to Sunday--that means we light 2 candles!

[ 4 ]

We have a trace of snow on the ground. Yesterday, Marcel promptly went outside to begin eating the small amounts of snow he could catch.

[ 5 ]

We watched Terminator Salvation this week. I (the action genre lover) really liked it. Nate (the guys who likes mostly dramas) didn't really like it. We've been into a bit of a Terminator groove lately. Our Netflix has been delivering Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles. I can say that I"m really enjoying the human vs. cyborg storyline. In the TV series, Sarah Connor is constantly weighing the morality of what she's doing with her knowledge of future events. In Terminator Salvation, I think the same is true. 4/5 stars.

We also watched Star Trek recently. Apart from one (seemingly obligatory) sex scene (no nudity), the movie was good. I am not a trekkie and have never watched any of the Star Trek movies or shows. But, I enjoyed the storyline and action. 3/5 stars.

[ 6 ]

If you enjoy your iPod or have iTunes, I highly recommend the audiobook of The Rhythm of Life by Matthew Kelly. I have really enjoyed reaing many of his books, however audiobooks sometimes fit better into my day-to-day life. The book talks about the importance of having a rhythm to each of our lives in order to accomplish the things God asks of us. We need to utilize all that He's given us (our talents) within the limits of living in this world (the need for sleep, the fact that each of us only get 24 hours each day, etc.). Highly recommended. 5/5 stars. (As an added bonus, Kelly reads the book himself, which really adds to the listening experience).

[ 7 ]

This Sunday is St. Nick's Day. In our small family, our tradition is to exchange gifts on this day (as opposed to Christmas Day). The kids know that Mom and Dad give the gifts on this day. However, they do like to pretend with us ("Be good, or St. Nick will bring you coal..."). We're looking forward to exchanging gifts and having a big breakfast to celebrate.

Snippets

2009-12-02T11:33:00.000-06:00

Jozef: Mom? Are we having snake for dinner?

------------------------------------------------------------

Kolbe: Daddy says Marcel had "feet-o" powers.

Mom: What?

Kolbe: Feet-o power. That means "a lot" of power.

Mom: I guess I'll have to ask Dad about where he came up with that one.

Kolbe: The other night, when we wanted to watch a movie, Dad said Marcel had feet-o power because he was sick, so he could pick out the movie.

Mom. Oh! VETO power!

Our Mouse

2009-11-23T14:50:00.001-06:00

Marcel (a.k.a. Mouse) has had the frustrating habit of sucking on anything that is made of paper or cardboard. He'll put an entire paper towel in his mouth and just chew and suck on it(!).

I feel that this reflects poorly on me, his harried mother. "Am I such a bad mother that my 2-year-old can be chewing on various large pieces of paper and not notice that he's doing it?"

In an effort to stem this habit, I purchased him some gum. He's truly enjoying his gum chewing. However, from time to time, he looks to revert back to his paper/cardboard fetish.

Today, I was sort of sorry to discover what he'd been chewing on:

Mom: Marcel? What is in your mouth?

Marcel: This! [[ he hands me a waded up green ball ]]

As I unrolled it, I saw a familiar face.

That was a mouth-full!

Which One Of These Things...

2009-11-23T09:26:00.000-06:00

Doesn't Belong?

An Honest Mistake

2009-11-18T15:57:00.000-06:00

To the member of the M&Ms/Mars research team that suggested "Dark Chocolate M&Ms were a good idea": You. Were. Wrong. Mixing that delectable candy coating with chocolate that tastes like it has too much cocoa powder is just not decent.

And that's just the beginning. In addition, your company has decided to market said product in a deceptive packaging that looks like the regular, delicious, mouth-watering Milk Chocolate M&Ms. Let's take a hypothetical situation and dissect it, shall we?

An innocent shopper is browsing the isles (with, let's say, 4 children clamoring from in, on and outside of the shopping cart) and catches a glimpse of the flashy holiday packaging with the cute M&M guy on the cover. In such a frenzy fast-pace shopping environment with young children, a Mother may not look closely to inspect the packaging. What's a girl to do? Read the fine print that states "Dark Chocolate"? The Mother may mistakingly grab your "Dark Chocolate M&Ms" only to get home and pop a few in her mouth...only to discover she's been cheated; wronged.

What's my solution now that the cat's out of the bag so to speak? Well, M&Ms should simply make a slight modification to their packaging that would alert would-be shoppers that the bag contains said "Dark Chocolate". Then, no Mother would mis-purchase these again. Evah.

Note to the M&Ms research team: Bitter is not a flavor many seek to obtain.

Reading Wrap-up

2009-11-18T11:10:00.000-06:00

This week, at Holy Spirit Homeschool, we've been focused like a laser on reading. One great reason for that is we've purchased a new reading book and the boys are rather excited about using it. Here are some highlights from the week:

When Kolbe triumphantly finishes a sentence (and displays his inner-Yooper):

That's some good reading, eh, Mom?

Tonight, during prayer:

Mom: Lord, thank you for helping the boys as they begin to read!

Marcel: Mom, I can't READ!

Mom: I know Marcel, but soon you will.

Marcel: Yeah. When I'm a Daddy, I'll read.

Jozef, after being in bed about half-an-hour:

Mom, I'm not ready for bed, I want to learn more!

Kolbe, after putting in a big day of reading practice:

Mom, soon, I'm gonna read as fast as you. Probably by tomorrow!

7 Quick Takes

2009-11-06T15:58:00.000-06:00

-- 1 --

Kolbe is using workbooks for school this year. That may sound like a casual, mundane statement, but, to me, it's more than that. You see, I've really been trying use only Montessori activities for him. After much research, I really came to believe that it was the best way to learn. In addition, Maria Montessori created her method as something that was best for children rather than as a course of study that yielded a "proper" outcome.

What does all of this mean? I guess Kolbe hasn't read the research. And this Mom had to catch up with her 6 year-old. My new motto: Do what works, and what he enjoys. How's he doing? He's currently flying though the books I've given him. He'll probably be on 2nd grade material by early Spring. I'm learning to evolve as his needs do.

-- 2 --

Halloween was a bit of a personal tragedy for me. Okay, tragedy is too strong of a word. I planned to make two costumes this year. However, life got in the way. For a week and a half, I was sick followed by a few sick little guys. Then, Nate was super-busy at work, so at night, I had to take over more of his duties around the house. Long story short, I only completed one costume. I was so upset (and am embarrassed to admit it). Sometimes it's difficult for me to admit that life here is crazy. And my best laid plans sometimes (a lot of times) fail. I needed to let go. And move on. Besides, I have all the materials for a great costume next year.

-- 3 --

I'm beginning my Christmas lists for the boys. Buying toys is so hard at this stage. There are toys they want and toys they might actually play with. And, I need to always remember the "Marcel factor". It goes something like this, "Mother, I realize these great toys have many pieces and parts that are meant to be kept together, however I believe in sharing what I have with the masses. Therefore, I will spread a number of pieces though-out the house, chew on, or otherwise mutilate the rest. And, remember, I love you." With that in mind, Legos, K'nex and remote control anythings are "out". Sorry boys.

-- 4 --

We had our family picture taken yesterday. I was so glad that we had one that turned out great! I'll post it here soon to share (as soon as I get to my scanner).

-- 5 --

We raked our back yard this past Tuesday. It's Friday and we need to rake it again. Yard work is something I don't enjoy anymore. Not because I dislike it, but because it takes 4x as long to do with 4 boys. Between requests for bikes and yard toys, to bathroom breaks and nap times, the time needed to complete any task in the yard is greatly increased. My poor neighbors. Our yard looks a bit...unkept. But then again, that aptly describes our lives right now.

-- 6 --

We've still been enjoyed a movie here and there via Netflix. Nate caved to the marketing hype and rented Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen. My recommendation: Just don't. Too much skin, too little story, too little true courage, too much inane dialogue, too much adult language for a movie marketed to kids. I wouldn't allow my 13-year old to watch this PG-13 movie. Skip this one. Better yet, maybe rent the old cartoons.

Sunshine Cleaning was another renter. I have to admit that I fell in love with Amy Adams after Enchanted. She is quite talented--her facial expressions in that movie alone are amazing not to mention her voice (even though her really-toothy smile is kind of too much...but I digress). Then, I researched her a bit to see what other roles she's played. Most of the movies were borderline offensive so I'd have to be careful about the other Adams movies I'd rent. However, Sunshine Cleaning was one that I thought would be okay. The idea behind Sunshine Cleaning is good, the writing is about par. She lives a "normal" life and hits some really hard times. But her odd family (Dad and sister) work to help her though. Bottom line--if you like Juno, you'd like Sunshine Cleaning. **There was one scene that we simply skipped due to the graphic nature. Just FYI.

-- 7 --

I am looking forward to the weekend! It's supposed to be 60 degrees both days! How often does that happen in November?

Peace be with you!

An Inconvenient Analogy

2009-11-05T09:55:00.000-06:00

In an article at Catholic New York Online, Archbishop Timothy Dolan compares the atrocity of abortion to slavery. It is a comparison that few want to be made (due to the obvious retrospective reprehensibility of slavery). However, the analogy is more than just that. The two are identical in quite a few ways:

-each had the support of the Supreme Court

-each had the country split 50/50 regarding whether it was morally acceptable

-each had Catholics on either side of the issue (those that were/are for slavery/abortion were, of course, personally opposed, but didn't feel they could impose their morality on others)

-each allowed one person to control the fate of another

Some day, I pray, we'll look back on abortion with sadness and joy. Sadness that it went on for so long, and joy that it is no longer supported or legal.

---------
For more information regarding the Catholic perspective on the health care debate, visit the USCCB's website. Please be sure to email your representatives, as well. It just takes a minute.
---------

h/t MommyLife

Scout's Honor

2009-11-04T20:26:00.000-06:00

When talking about his brother's behavior yesterday:

Kolbe: That's not very cub scout-y!

That's one well-versed scout we have.

He Thinks He Can

2009-11-03T10:48:00.001-06:00

As I watch him pick himself up, for the 100th time, and see perseverance in action, I marvel. Jerzy is walking. And it's taken him only 3-4 weeks to master it. He takes a step, wobbles, falls. Then, he tries for two steps. Soon, he's walking across the room independently. He wavers and sometimes falls, but he always gets up; moves forward.

When I get defeated, I stay down. I certainly don't pick myself up and move on. I wallow. I complain. I ask God, "Why?" I want to lay in bed all day (not that I have a chance to around here, however).

No wonder Jesus said we are to become like little children. We all struggle, falter and fall--in relationships, in projects, at work and home. Like children, we need only pick ourselves up and try again. God is right here with us, like I'm here with my little guy--watching and cheering him on, not causing his falls.

The key is to become like little children, and try again. However, I am quite confident that we can skip the drooling part.

A Halloween...In A Galaxy Far, Far Away

2009-11-01T20:36:00.000-06:00

Marcel :: Yoda

Jozef :: Clone

Kolbe :: Luke Skywalker (Episode VI)

We came, we froze, we "treated", we whined, we conquered.

Mission :: Accomplished!

One-derfully Beautiful

2009-10-27T10:50:00.000-05:00

Jozef loves to squeeze him (sometimes a little too much). Kolbe enjoys carrying him around. Marcel likes to "guide" Jerzy into trouble. Daddy loves the way he squawks and crawls rapidly towards him as he enters the door at the end of his work day. And Mommy loves his baby cuddles.

Thank you, Jesus, for the blessing of Jerzy on our family, as he turns one-year-old.

We couldn't imagine life without him!

An Almost Victory

2009-10-20T16:04:00.000-05:00

Mr. Clean Heavy Duty Eraser Pad v. Marcel

Tally ::

Marker on Wall :: Check

Paint on Wall :: Check

Pencil on Toilet Seat Lid :: Check

Marker on Door :: Check

Pen on Laptop :: Um...still there

-----------------------------------

Results ::

Mr Clean Heavy Duty Erase Pad - 4

Marcel - 1

-----------------------------------

Conclusion ::

Markers are to be put away for a veerry long time. Mommy lives to fight another day (with Mr. Clean Pad in hand).

As of Late

2009-10-14T14:15:00.001-05:00

It's been a rough two weeks. The boys and I have all been struck with colds! Fortunately, Nate has been unscathed. Whenever I am sick, it reminds me how blessed I am to have good health, with no permanent ailments. Without health, much of life is difficult or impossible.

Before our 'bout with colds, we had been very busy. Here are a few highlights:

We visited a local orchard and canned over 30 quarts of applesauce!

October is Fire Safety Month. The boys enjoyed checking out the fire trucks and "throwing some water" at the local fire station.

And, Jerzy has been becoming more heroic in his exploits, taking steps between strongholds and generally getting into trouble.

We pray that soon our troop will be on the other side of these colds. Until then, I think a trip to the doctor may be in order this afternoon...

Retreat!

2009-09-30T21:30:00.002-05:00

During my high school years, I had many opportunities to attend retreats--probably 3 each year! I am sure the graces from those experiences helped me develop my faith and love for God, as well as helped to guide me to my husband.

These days, I can barely squeeze in time for prayer, unless I physically leave the house! It's not that the boys won't let me be for a bit, they just have an ardent zeal to pray with their Mom (well, that's what I tell myself anyway).

Beginning tomorrow, Relevant Radio is putting on a 2-day retreat. Finally a retreat that meats me where I'm at--in the car or the kitchen!

The retreat takes place Thursday and Friday (Oct 1-2 for those of you that may read this at a later date). The theme is In Our Lady's Hands.

I encourage you to listen a bit online. We can all use a retreat, and this one is at a laptop near you.

*If you'd like to listen to the retreat at a later time, visit the audio archives on RelevantRadio.com