tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15551221673333802392024-02-20T16:03:47.328-08:00Happy, Shining, BlessedAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-50555917448408072882018-05-18T10:00:00.002-07:002018-05-18T10:00:41.789-07:00Baby LidiaAnd she is finally here...<br />
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Lidia Maria Twaalfhoven was born on March 26th, 2018. After what felt like an incredibly difficult first month, I can say I am finally adjusting to life as a mom! It is exhausting, overwhelming and scary but she is so worth it!<br />
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Facts:<br />
She was born at 6 pounds 11 ounces via c-section.<br />
She weighed 10 pounds at her 1 month appointment.<br />
She began to smile and laugh at 5-6 weeks.<br />
She has great neck control but unfortunately has an umbilical hernia.<br />
She is so loved!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-14731532359930770142018-02-02T09:50:00.007-08:002018-02-02T09:53:35.690-08:00The sweetest time of our lives"All good things come from God, but babies are his specialty." <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-45849512867989474812017-11-25T09:19:00.002-08:002018-03-12T12:33:41.043-07:00Oh Baby!Writing this down so it is recorded in internet history!<br />
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We have a child! Lidia Maria Twaalfhoven is now 24 weeks in utero (here are some shots of her at 20 weeks) and she is expected to make her arrival on March 19th, 2018.<br />
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Here are some pregnancy deets I need to make sure not to forget:<br />
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Found out I was pregnant on July 18th 2017 (roughly 6 weeks along/ 4 weeks after conception/ a couple of weeks after the running of the bull, yikes!)<br />
Felt very tired and nauseated most days until the the second semester began.<br />
Once the second semester began I felt super energetic and hungry all of a sudden!<br />
Began pregnancy at 137-138 pounds.<br />
In the past two months I have gained about 12 pounds!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-81822029139139213522017-08-09T08:01:00.000-07:002017-08-09T09:15:26.063-07:00A Teacher's First Year<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">"</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Teenagers scare the living s**** out of me. They could care less as long as someone'll bleed..." - My Chemical Romance </span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-30151630-c7c6-1654-73f1-864734d9a97b" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></span>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And so my first year of teaching has come to a close. I did not think I would say this but I am now looking forward to school again, to meeting all the new students and their unique personalities and quirks. This is, of course, a very different feeling from the one I had on the last day of school, when I could not wait to break free from the confines of my classroom. But now I miss it and am ready to do it again.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My year began with the naiveté of thinking that students would simply absorb my love for the content I was teaching, and would be so in love with Theology (and why wouldn't they be?) that I would never have classroom management issues or students simply being mean for the fun of it. I was wrong (surprise, surprise) as there is a lot more technique to teaching than simply knowing your stuff. So here are some thoughts from my first year of teaching:</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1. You will fall in love with some students (not in a creepy way).</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I found that so many students required very little incentive to do their job. They went above and beyond, never made excuses, always asked clarifying questions if they were unsure and were just a pleasure to have in class. During the really tough stretches of teaching, thinking about how committed these students were to doing well and to learning kept me from despairing and thinking all I was doing was pointless. I think I will always remember these students and will certainly miss them!</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2. Some students really could not care less (see lyrics at the top). </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Talking to a more experienced teacher friend, we agreed there are a three types of high school students: the brilliant A student who works so hard, the student who struggles, doesn't always complete assignments and lacks motivation but has a heart of gold, and the jerk who comes in late only to disrupt class. </span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Because I suspect most teachers were also good students (I could be totally wrong), we have come to expect that by doing xy and z, we will get results x, y and z. That wasn't always the case for me this year. Sometimes your hard work simply doesn't yield the results you dream of. This is specially true for dealing with students who are checked out. I doesn't matter how many conversations are had and how many times after-school help is offered, your students are people endowed with free will (Theology term!) and they are ultimately free to choose what is beneficial to them (or to reject it). </span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">One thing that helped me in working with students who either did not seem to care or seemed to be out to get me, was to deal with issues early (I wish I knew this in September!). Whether it's pulling the student aside for a talk or contacting a parent, it is best to not allow problems to grow. </span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3. Ask for help!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">One of the most helpful things this year was the guidance of an instructional coach. I was lucky that my friend Lauren Lyman from </span><a href="http://www.aeinstructional.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aquinas Education</span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> was willing to come in once a week for two or three months to mentor me. Her coaching was life-changing! From simple strategies such as setting up my classroom differently, to dealing with tricky behavioral issues, her feedback was invaluable and I now feel much more confident going into my second year!</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While the services of an instructional coach may be costly (I was lucky to receive it for free), many schools provide mentorship for new teachers. If not, I wouldn't be afraid to simply ask a department chair or a colleague to drop in to your classroom every once in a while for some non-evaluative feedback. I am grateful that the school I will begin teaching at this year has a mentorship program in which new teachers regularly meet with and are coached by veteran teachers. </span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">4. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Organization will save your life. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is one area in which I excelled this year (I knew there had to be one!) Staying on top of grading gave me a sense that I was staying afloat (even when I was not). I can say the same for carrying around a clipboard to check off work as it was turned in and posting very clear and accurate summaries of each day on the online portal. While some students would still ask: "Did I miss something yesterday?", being able to refer them to the portal saved me some valuable time. This also helps when communicating with parents. And on that topic...</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">5. COMMUNICATE WITH PARENTS.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As a young teacher, I often felt intimidated by parents (imposter syndrome wicked bad). But I found that problems could often be avoided by simply giving a parent a heads up on their child's behavior. This is not only their right as their children's first educators but it creates a more collaborative relationship. We are all on the same team, </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #222222; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">after all, even when it doesn't feel that way. </span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">6. Fake it 'till you make it. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So much of life is about showing up and looking ready, isn't it? The one gift I would like to have given myself back in the fall was the gift of confidence, of realizing that I knew my stuff (or at least knew more than the students) and was ready to teach it. Since I struggle with the confidence piece sometimes, and teaching is often a learn-as-you go deal, I need to be okay with not knowing everything but at least trying to appear as I do.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> I'm not sure if this helps, but I certainly wish I had known this stuff before my first year of teaching. Which by the way, is the hardest profession ever, am I right? </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-74957716773087903502017-08-01T11:11:00.005-07:002017-08-01T11:11:59.526-07:00Euro Trip 2017 part 2 After Spain, we set off to Portugal. There is a very small airport in Pamplona, Spain that offers a few daily flights to Madrid during the Feast of San Fermin. After a long layover in Madrid (during which I wisely took time to get my hair done at the airport), we arrived in Lisbon during one of the hottest days of the year. Thankfully, everything in Lisbon is only a short distance away and we soon arrived at the hotel.<br />
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We stayed at <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g189158-d239386-Reviews-Hotel_Duas_Nacoes-Lisbon_Lisbon_District_Central_Portugal.html">Hotel <span style="color: #351c75; font-family: inherit;">Duas </span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #351c75;"><a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g189158-d239386-Reviews-Hotel_Duas_Nacoes-Lisbon_Lisbon_District_Central_Portugal.html">Nações</a></span><span style="color: #4c1130;">,</span></span> which offered a good breakfast but had no A.C. (at least not in the room we booked). Did I mention it was one of the hottest days of the year? So yes, it was very warm, although bearable. The reason I w<span style="font-family: inherit;">ould consider this hotel again, however, is the location, location, location. We were only a few steps away from the <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">Praça do Comércio, the elevator to the Castle of St. George and other sights. If you want to see a lot of Lisbon and are crushed for time, we would recommend this hotel. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7SkhS3LgCHCqoZ2XstwpvstL_JhWZ7t6FZgE_DCIZIWEAP33buHrIeJq8X3kWZX4DfnS5a3VK3JCicS_BA2UxZoctK-0Nx_5rCg6qkhlN7GqJ8YJfQzcePUH6t-WJytZcpOVVFAt33Cc/s1600/lisbon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7SkhS3LgCHCqoZ2XstwpvstL_JhWZ7t6FZgE_DCIZIWEAP33buHrIeJq8X3kWZX4DfnS5a3VK3JCicS_BA2UxZoctK-0Nx_5rCg6qkhlN7GqJ8YJfQzcePUH6t-WJytZcpOVVFAt33Cc/s640/lisbon.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">If you find yourself in Lisbon, three things are highly recommended:</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">1. Visit the Castle of St. George for amazing views of the city.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjhOCd_H-YTuZ2KYlbx5gGcD1nS19HtiIO0pl6mTu4qeF3Td0bS3N-hDfUw7mHOdMDzUgVpxqQjXP6u-gX6u3D-TKRIYcp_xG8CX6B7PGMoiPS4D7Gk8t3EeIJQUHRMC7lOOBU1uKJNUQ/s1600/lisbon2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjhOCd_H-YTuZ2KYlbx5gGcD1nS19HtiIO0pl6mTu4qeF3Td0bS3N-hDfUw7mHOdMDzUgVpxqQjXP6u-gX6u3D-TKRIYcp_xG8CX6B7PGMoiPS4D7Gk8t3EeIJQUHRMC7lOOBU1uKJNUQ/s640/lisbon2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">2. Eat bacalhau (Portuguese cod). </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">3. Shop! The week we were in Europe was a major "</span>rebajas" week. Sales everywhere from Barcelona to Lisbon. I only wish we had more time to hit up stores. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Because the centennial of the apparitions of Our Lady in Fatima, Portugal were this year, we decided to go on a short trip to Fatima. We took a bus from Sete Rios bus station and arrived in about an hour. We originally thought about 4 hours would be spent there, but it turned out 2 hours were sufficient. It was so hot we just kept moving! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirG1FdfMtTmjikXAeZTmG4mMBeYx-5CObeewp258XMIxgynf2raXb_BcnNU6ZC1xnFAukwp9Pa9DIB8tdC9QonqG1TTvHVi-vHSDEwM5Dc_A4ZYnn1IWe_opahuA8pEuBFAOE5vgjEEEk/s1600/fatima.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirG1FdfMtTmjikXAeZTmG4mMBeYx-5CObeewp258XMIxgynf2raXb_BcnNU6ZC1xnFAukwp9Pa9DIB8tdC9QonqG1TTvHVi-vHSDEwM5Dc_A4ZYnn1IWe_opahuA8pEuBFAOE5vgjEEEk/s640/fatima.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">After Portugal we flew to London, where we spent some time with my husband's cousin. He took us on a tour of London, where we visited the Tate Modern, a really interesting art gallery with some Picasso's and Dali's. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">After doing all the touristy things in London (walking by Kensington Palace, The Big Ben, St. Paul's, etc.) we stopped for lunch at <a href="http://www.foundersarms.co.uk/">Founders' Arms</a> and had the traditional fish and chips and pulled pork sandwiches. Yum!!!! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">We drove five hours from London to Exeter, where we rode bikes around "The Quay", an area with shops and pubs. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh98iwfOy0V7u9lKEf87x49INV4U6tTD-h4kOtRgps3MqFpLfyk3j67Kk7RJdH6aoItvsyGP7UVKXVb1V96JUWn8QUBgutkJTXIh3peY6E5hSzUPrQzkXkGTx9mHqCdQXiPZgrAcxFAHyA/s1600/england4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh98iwfOy0V7u9lKEf87x49INV4U6tTD-h4kOtRgps3MqFpLfyk3j67Kk7RJdH6aoItvsyGP7UVKXVb1V96JUWn8QUBgutkJTXIh3peY6E5hSzUPrQzkXkGTx9mHqCdQXiPZgrAcxFAHyA/s400/england4.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Another hour of driving brought us to Bovey Tracey, where hub's godmother lives. Walking around the picturesque town, eating pasties and learning more about my husband's family was the perfect end to our time in Europe! On our second day in Bovey Tracey we went on a PAW (perfectly awful walk) at Pew Tor in Dartmoor. It was actually fun!!! </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">On our last day in England we drove back (on the left, of course) to Heathrow Airport and I have to admit I missed home so badly! </span></span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-84132556257696502012017-07-25T15:02:00.001-07:002017-07-25T15:10:01.608-07:00Euro Trip 2017 part 1<div>
After much planning and preparation, our trip to Europe went on without a hitch! Here are some highlights and ideas: </div>
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<b>Holland</b></h3>
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On the Fourth of July we arrived in Holland (how patriotic!) for a few days of meeting family and exploring. </div>
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We began by going out to dinner at <a href="http://www.djakarta.nl/">Djakarta</a> in Utrecht . Fun fact: Indonesia was once a Dutch colony and many Indonesians have since moved to the Netherlands (and many have started restaurants!). While I'm not a huge fan of sate sauce, a spicy peanut dipping sauce, the beef skewers were great. </div>
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Since we were staying with family, we had access to bikes with which to go visit grandparents and sightsee. </div>
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Utrecht was so quaint and fun, and certainly left me with a great impression of Holland! The long bike rides, delicious pancakes and time spent with family made for a great first week of our vacation. </div>
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By the way, I highly recommend the pancakes at <a href="http://demuntkelder.nl/">The Pancake Bakery Muntkelder</a>. We had the ham & cheese, bacon & cheese and banana apple and they were to die for! </div>
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We spent a day in Amsterdam, which we found a bit too busy. We did love mass at St. Nicholas Church and walking around the neighborhood of Anne Frank's house (the lines to get in were out the door!)</div>
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Spain</h3>
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After Utrecht we flew to Barcelona, for a packed day that included visiting the Sagrada Familia, mass at the Cathedral (beautiful), watching the Sardanes (a traditional Catalunian dance), walking along the Passeig de Gracia and eating tapas (at 10PM!) with friends. </div>
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We then headed to Navarra for the Feast of San Fermin, which is celebrated in Pamplona every year from the 6th to the 14th of July. </div>
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On the way there we stopped by a monastery in Montserrat, at the top of a beautiful mountain range. The monastery offers beautiful views and a gorgeous basilica. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqqG7gkQ-YUWMtDPwibs7d8pHzHhAktQ0Ie9lh_FOx1vzQfg0LYiqLjOLHbn6GjVBL6pldxArWmhT78E17ywA84H9Dj-8G8BzOpR6ZNxsX1BUaFLWIzZ-B-1nu204QXcZPIL5q1rja39o/s1600/montserrat4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqqG7gkQ-YUWMtDPwibs7d8pHzHhAktQ0Ie9lh_FOx1vzQfg0LYiqLjOLHbn6GjVBL6pldxArWmhT78E17ywA84H9Dj-8G8BzOpR6ZNxsX1BUaFLWIzZ-B-1nu204QXcZPIL5q1rja39o/s320/montserrat4.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ52cKE0pIqp_E3om7iuNyU2Q38NuJ14zRRNTwyo-X3-ZG-XU9f2ViW7vGjTYy6_vrKuULOhGK4H97lmqAAgsxIFk2MsBtQLd_LhaP-RP8Y_1JMU9cFaYUi4szLf1CibBRMq1qEddyB9s/s1600/montserrat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ52cKE0pIqp_E3om7iuNyU2Q38NuJ14zRRNTwyo-X3-ZG-XU9f2ViW7vGjTYy6_vrKuULOhGK4H97lmqAAgsxIFk2MsBtQLd_LhaP-RP8Y_1JMU9cFaYUi4szLf1CibBRMq1qEddyB9s/s320/montserrat.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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The feast of San Fermin in Pamplona is famous because of the running of the bulls and let me say there is a whole continuum of stupidity when it comes to participating in that! While our group was happy to stay along the sides as the bulls ran past us, some more courageous runners attempt to run with the bulls (often in front of them!) At the end of each run (they have them each morning at 8AM), the bulls are at the stadium, where they will inevitably meet their fate. We didn't want to watch the bulls' deaths (totally unnecessary) so we took a drive to <a href="http://thecatholictravelguide.com/destinations/spain/loyola-spain-saint-ignatius-loyola/">Loyola</a>, the birthplace of St. Ignatius. This was one of the highlights of our time in Spain, so we highly recommend visiting it! </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-90777835731333805962017-04-24T10:58:00.000-07:002017-04-24T10:58:27.230-07:00One down, eternity to go...Yesterday marked our first anniversary. We spent it in the sweeter of ways, sleeping in, breakfast in bed, completing a crossword puzzle about our relationship and going to Mass. What a good year, what joy and what a husband!<br />
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Here are some pics taken a week before our anniversary:<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-32613409388734200262016-10-24T11:11:00.001-07:002016-10-24T11:11:54.390-07:00All the days of our lives...<br />
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So... I've been a Mrs. for exactly six months. Six beautiful, cozy, awesome months. Thank you Jesus for Nick!!!<br />
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While the "in sickness and in health" part definitely reared its ugly head this week with the Mr. having septum surgery and all, not a day goes by when I don't feel incredibly grateful for the man I married. Here's to many more half anniversaries!!!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-34023217890734528562016-08-30T07:01:00.000-07:002016-08-30T07:26:47.535-07:00Our NestIf home is where the heart is, then I surely have found mine! On good and not-so-good days I still wake up with a whole lot of gratitude in mio cuore for living here. After many little projects and tons of generous hand me downs, it's now exactly the way we wanted it to be! <div><br></div><div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIvNylyN4E5QyyH0o7NIGQ23hbDhdsZPGGlBv1h9Vmy50qQEhvSSxUNB84TsnTHCWMqKco1Ef4wYGL8XQQJQ5dmzTRUCjgazx6LjYD5_i0E6Ql7o0fWnbYTShrgvwEkOfeShLFvwnDXqc/I/photo_319652.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBHC3g8YsQY7J13n5y_te-1N1Uz2TmK6utNdzB_GNQ2yeABS9yAf_BIuxjxP9n4Y8mLstguJDWlaaazsKvzFgnzEeVx9tlLf97cnWhLi269WZAzb3UVJ3njfHnbp973Qy51f6nPVwWj98/I/photo_405378.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpCVWpreBdHtKMgFv6djMXDiB22Uy0O6sCl58oDEEINR9sC0fxQYCy-287ZG88nH-K9zRW3xaPanEOJ0cmz7jeh7Ettdug-02mDWOKhY5ZV_cB4UmLaF5DIlBfkCGBbc1BLkuU-3JulKI/I/photo_439689.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP-bhfCyUK3ZZEm5Sdu775POQkcvq_oxZHhua9k4WCj9jx_TGGt3EfDcia-FlSgMwwCE9EYzrk7KKesFmfk_Qh7YnoHSIKfIZQF_ALJOAc2ZoZWck_XFfk40Z8BIu_OxgriruJojGWVKo/I/photo_891981.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br><br> <br><br> <br><br> <br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-57368294134641729812016-06-02T13:54:00.001-07:002016-06-05T15:04:27.604-07:00When in Rome...After the most beautiful day ever, my beloved and I departed to the eternal city! We were able to do the mandatory newlywed thing a.k.a. meeting El Papa and tons of other sweet things (daily gelatto included).<br><div><br>We were so blessed to go to Assisi, the place of birth of St. Francis, who has popped up into our lives time and time again ! God is good!<br><br><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiKI2qvjHBaNXqUb607seCfY4DUXvUJL48p61-5tA2wBMO-maML3hxLoBMd360YL_kut2_3AfZBRdnMynVz34yEgnoBFPFtqJVjjnbljzPOyO8oS0VeHKAhF9DZU9acXGT29XwqAjU7v8/I/photo_783590.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuguNz7qDRfmJQd8fGt4Xz1FMH-DqbowyUpjAHmd-WJ0oQzTcqRvtyGC2rKCvTOWI-4Eqlai1h6-mRMvfVfO6NohYzDUGTU3aTLpODtqJ63Rh2vNYOwB3rymdPUoPkEB8YSlAqwvSo5ks/I/photo_21211.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAm4M3tOc8NoIHAK1yJdnWfgEGMsgjmBNMQa2Ke1OYOx9xb7YKf_0jlMFWLuiySK-ZuSM_h1_bcYLnRKpkEYfn7yoccdHqMX2BqXOytx3f5nO8SBvrhFpL0KbuTyCLbsIboGT0W2Bx9Ko/I/photo_572194.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMUaYNfcMswdKgBV2FlRLxUm_wu476u3r301p2CfZ-K-P3mfgHjunbeexMpvm3JgC4JOb07l-m5O0X90OU63epGWewxsPgqZFLNrbcWBiBRRiRGh43EfpS8yG-pSKHzT4a0-UOsbMJQ1g/I/photo_399163.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC3ObmtOnGk5qO9BFvYoVk3j2h3mwcKoISt7_zC5BHfoqnCJy5Iq_Kq9Gng_fdAW4bKbx_7YOpxNUZC1YYN2bkWUpQq7m0EE_yp5QeChzraxRGBAAsVW7awpAk7m6_ndIitfymwkevnDo/I/photo_140294.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuqr6ulN-cHIS7zj83NAGGYqKPxnKrs-A8Kq6aaRr0OCx9JWWTG703scwufBz9HLRyBO664tDldrHU4LNjWzav9GreGmPbS91XuuCT_B-xpptBAPynzzP822YU4Sn81I6AgFGDycUD7lU/I/photo_184084.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFkM_G36rjcNGmkNh0VrGYxSjc8GbOCbxXG6bM26_wna4RB904Ipv-2E2IZCETAjSTz6THOtAGjAdrHvYMULEDnaKRAJEyinNJqUMnxYgynkq3j7AGvycyYxpRTc82HoSBkBPWk6keg4w/I/photo_275342.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRD4nvu1rsjEJt4srEEFRwic4ksifGPfVORFg5PIhTzMA9-RZ7F4w2O8A9WFFEvuTUi9aIzJ7a8QLhQ6FUhlJJYuUts6PNMi1tqWEWM-26dNtj5Ikxwhr9zc17zQK4DMM_NEpgd6digbE/I/photo_904961.jpg" border="0" class="bloggoimg"></div><br><br> <br><br> <br> <br><br> <br> <br><br> <br> <br><br><br><br><br><br><br></div><div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-58157250061584552652016-05-20T10:24:00.002-07:002016-05-20T10:24:37.471-07:00Love and Marriage Hello blogosphere!<br />
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As of April 23rd, 2016 I am Mrs. Twaalfhoven!<br />
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What a crazy, amazing, easy, awesome month this has been!<br />
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A quick recap of our wedding day:<br />
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I was blessed to have the most supportive, loving bridal party ever. My girls went above and beyond to make the day just so special! Promptly at 2PM we were married at St James Church, to the sound of the most beautiful music ever. How nice to walk into the church and see all of our loved ones (some were missing ) cheering us on!<br />
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<span style="color: #474747; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"><i>"Love and marriage, love and marriage</i></span></div>
<i><span style="color: #474747; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
Go together like a horse and carriage</div>
</span><span style="color: #474747; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
This I tell you brother</div>
</span></i><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #474747; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"><i>You can't have one without the other" </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #474747; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"><i>Frank Sinatra</i></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-84899819847377168292016-01-15T09:26:00.000-08:002016-01-15T09:26:31.101-08:00My last big accomplishment as Miss PeixotoHello world!!!!!<br />
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As I write this post, I am proud to say I have finished my student teaching internship two hours ago!<br />
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While this has been the most challenging time of my life (exhausting, to be completely honest), I will miss students, staff and the routine of a teacher. I will even miss waking up at 5AM and being so productive.<br />
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Now it's back to youth ministry, part-time mentoring work and planning a wedding!<br />
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Speaking of wedding planning, it has been going well, thank you!<br />
Not without its challenges (just ask Nick), but we are getting there. All the big things are settled, now all that's left are the details!<br />
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As for Thanksgiving and Christmas, all went well, lots of time was spent with family and friends and the house is cozy and inviting! What more can a girl want?<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-45697002096683559752015-11-02T07:56:00.004-08:002016-01-24T16:03:10.229-08:00Grace for everything<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: justify;">Hello friends!</span></span></span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br />Just stopping by to share some engagement pics. Life is so incredibly busy between student teaching, youth ministry (which I'm seriously stinking at right now), the behavioral health job and of course planning a wedding. I honestly cannot wait for April to come! </span></span></h4>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-34044319213662783042015-10-16T09:37:00.002-07:002015-10-16T09:37:58.809-07:00News, news, news !!!!!! <span style="font-size: large;">Hello world!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Life has been absolutely insane between student teaching, two jobs and planning a wedding!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">What?! A wedding?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Why yes, a wedding!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">A certain handsome guy asked for my hand in marriage! </span><br />
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Sept. 26th, 2016<br />
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<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Excitement isn't even the word as every day in bride territory turns out to be full of joys, surprises and even some frustrations (venue searching ehhhh). </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">More details to come!!!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-88566930874161582332015-08-28T09:57:00.000-07:002015-08-28T09:57:59.994-07:00One Week into Student Teaching!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yay!!!!!! What a wonderful week of learning, teaching and sharing! More on my classes and students later but for now, let's just celebrate a week of fun outfits! </span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-7313642200408105542015-08-23T17:43:00.002-07:002015-08-28T09:22:08.651-07:00Arts and Crafts<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As some of you may know, I work as a freelance therapeutic mentor/training specialist for a behavioral health organization. Here are some crafts and interventions I have learned and used:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Calming bottles</span></strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimX6aYrxXvlfKK3flWzdbFU4jqKyoinxXTOs531N8twOQi0f90FPCiBWHQ-Z74wqhJg88VQWnO8g2yKYoRGarz6FtVLqEs2RA17YbEsJXSjW3I7D-Prq7gbAjIn-ftNkHBKBGf7FDZ1OI/s1600/IMG_3119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimX6aYrxXvlfKK3flWzdbFU4jqKyoinxXTOs531N8twOQi0f90FPCiBWHQ-Z74wqhJg88VQWnO8g2yKYoRGarz6FtVLqEs2RA17YbEsJXSjW3I7D-Prq7gbAjIn-ftNkHBKBGf7FDZ1OI/s640/IMG_3119.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Calming bottles (or time-out bottles as they're sometimes referred to) are great for helping children to self-regulate. If a child is so upset he or she cannot be consoled or can't engage in another calming activity, calming bottles can serve as a great visual "anchor" to help bring focus into one place as their world seems to be spinning out of control. Holding the bottle and watching the glitter fall, can slow her heart rate and respiration.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here's the recipe: </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">16 oz water bottle (I used glass containers here but I normally use plastic ones, safety first!) </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Glitter glue </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Glitter</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Begin by having the child pour glitter glue of various colors into the empty bottle. When they are done, fill out the bottle half way with hot water. Now have the child add more glitter (as much as they'd like!). Fill up the bottle with water at room temperature and seal the bottle with hot glue or crazy glue. Wait a few minutes for the glue to dry and shake shake shake the bottle. Now watch as the glitter particles fall, helping the mind and body to relax and focus. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Play dough stress balls</strong> </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQOTLbPau0Qnw_1Ih1BmX8NX-59wV_jmXcpf-NBgJXD-1XHoEbZkRzA5sJmfYNKqLEfwqS4IBTxaNpzrvMxY0hFZVbvSx-4oXI-A68-a8_Dn2wkBq_0PJhlax2Di4qDuQWlK20W7aAsSc/s1600/IMG_3116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQOTLbPau0Qnw_1Ih1BmX8NX-59wV_jmXcpf-NBgJXD-1XHoEbZkRzA5sJmfYNKqLEfwqS4IBTxaNpzrvMxY0hFZVbvSx-4oXI-A68-a8_Dn2wkBq_0PJhlax2Di4qDuQWlK20W7aAsSc/s640/IMG_3116.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Stress balls are great for kids (and adults) who need to manage daily stress (and who doesn't?). For this activity you will use a smiley face balloon, another balloon of any color to hold the play dough, and enough play dough to stuff the balloon (I normally use 1 1/2 - 2 tubs of Play Doh). </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I begin this activity practicing deep breathing with kids by blowing the balloons. I then spend some time squeezing the play dough (great stress reliever!). Then, the tricky task is to stuff the solid balloons with play dough. Once that is done I stuff all that into the smiley face balloon. I like to use two balloons to prevent breakage. Squeeze away! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>DIY Sachets</strong> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_FLyO_rzE-BZMnxjpgagvSx3_EGSH50ofMX5bi6ffg-_iL1oiV493wUR7A4aql4bcbOaTYZsAObro1NW8rE4gp1e3pjPmQbfQajoqbjAocy1otIWrbPFsCSWcWHjIVT2wb83JyWzL90/s1600/IMG_3108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_FLyO_rzE-BZMnxjpgagvSx3_EGSH50ofMX5bi6ffg-_iL1oiV493wUR7A4aql4bcbOaTYZsAObro1NW8rE4gp1e3pjPmQbfQajoqbjAocy1otIWrbPFsCSWcWHjIVT2wb83JyWzL90/s320/IMG_3108.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZfBvJ8ROj0oGJ2EE24oJheYn7MHdRJhIiPTibX2vaeBmYq0S6tOvw6ZIJmevNmEorcTHk64wUCNd7xOxGcOw7qQ6OJ28gbA_0EVs5Xw31Ij4GkY-GfPpnTEcjAHVYktYN3ppr35yXz9g/s1600/IMG_3107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZfBvJ8ROj0oGJ2EE24oJheYn7MHdRJhIiPTibX2vaeBmYq0S6tOvw6ZIJmevNmEorcTHk64wUCNd7xOxGcOw7qQ6OJ28gbA_0EVs5Xw31Ij4GkY-GfPpnTEcjAHVYktYN3ppr35yXz9g/s320/IMG_3107.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">While I am not an aromatherapist, I do love using essential oils and enjoying their benefits. I also enjoy seeing the kids' faces when I tell them smells can help them feel more calm! For these sachets I used about five cotton balls, a few drops of lavender oil and little organza bags I bought at Walmart. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Essential oils can be pricey so I purchased the diluted form at Walmart for about $2. I found a pack with 6 organza bags on sale for $1 and used some cotton balls I had lying around the house. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I began by explaining the concept of aroma therapy to my kiddos and proceeded by having them squeeze a few drops of lavender oil on each cotton ball. We then stuff each organza bag with four or five cotton balls and voilà!</span> </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-55389356815038028482015-08-06T14:37:00.000-07:002015-08-06T14:37:06.026-07:00The Best of All Times<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Time flies when you're having the time of your life! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">While traveling and sight seeing are great, nothing fills my love tank like time spent with friends (Can you guess my love language?) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">So here are some highlights of our trip, although the beautiful faces are what really made it memorable.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Biking to the Golden Gate Bridge</span> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrEV6IHN6naOapH9AUy2vXYAw9r3b-sHhN_GBQFv4Sj9lnhV1fSUmYBSVm-0dcRlBSpNZShyphenhyphenoZzM8KG2zeiVGnEm3G7yk6OVwshOxIPTA2-jFEiPZwpqngcC6efSS7SLrWaSXOvaulPCQ/s640/blogger-image-1904633153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrEV6IHN6naOapH9AUy2vXYAw9r3b-sHhN_GBQFv4Sj9lnhV1fSUmYBSVm-0dcRlBSpNZShyphenhyphenoZzM8KG2zeiVGnEm3G7yk6OVwshOxIPTA2-jFEiPZwpqngcC6efSS7SLrWaSXOvaulPCQ/s640/blogger-image-1904633153.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">2. Driving down Big Sur</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfMl8JGHSsLftAW-Kz7NhJFUIHzuaoDX2zMAXhs8wTbIZ0W232Svaro4qa3ZXKw67defcGTO7qozyuMt0KfCUkdWn6p1FFF8yE4Ej48yuNlBPFlPm4EzF6HEbjbVqCjDwRoMvJ5xhE51c/s640/blogger-image-2137165548.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeKbQF0E8fF0zV9vEg8uyAzTvSOLey2uGSKrXpDFDhSjKAUCO1IA2mMpeJAQCP4eaCcRuWfE2eAPpIzVajpK-0Lm7bKD_cjmhbSHp2_43CD3h-fdci9IQzaVYHrOsLh8zcmYksuKaKBLE/s640/blogger-image-382806095.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeKbQF0E8fF0zV9vEg8uyAzTvSOLey2uGSKrXpDFDhSjKAUCO1IA2mMpeJAQCP4eaCcRuWfE2eAPpIzVajpK-0Lm7bKD_cjmhbSHp2_43CD3h-fdci9IQzaVYHrOsLh8zcmYksuKaKBLE/s640/blogger-image-382806095.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">3. Kim and Brandon's wedding ceremony . The homily on hope deserves mentioning too!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Reception at the Serra Retreat House</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">5. Horseback riding to the Hollywood sign</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">"There is nothing on this Earth more to be prized than true friendship." </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">St Thomas Aquinas</span> </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-16888712579576648922015-07-19T18:47:00.001-07:002015-07-23T12:07:54.871-07:00Paralysis isn't fun : conquering my fears<em><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Hello world!!!!</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I realize it has been ages since I wrote my last post, but I must blame it on the awesomeness and chaos of life!</span></em><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">To start, I was able to test out of my last two college courses (U.S. History I and II) and complete all my coursework!!! Can you say "It's been a loooooong journey"????? After roughly five years of fluctuating between attending school part time and full time, working a few different jobs and being incredibly broke though all of it, I am happy to stand just a few student-teaching-filled months away from finally graduating. Whoop whoop!</span></em><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This is hardly the most difficult thing I've done in my life though. I'm embarrassed to say I have been seriously lacking in the conquering my fears department these last 24 years. I must admit being born was a very courageous thing to do though. ( Go me!)</span></em><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Since they say a life unexamined is not worth living, I figured I couldn't let this major event go unrecorded. So here goes the story of fighting a paralyzing fear of water and signing up for swim lessons. </span></em><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">"Gabriela, you MUST learn to swim." </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">These words from Nick's opa could easily have ended up in my "I should but probably won't" list of ideas to try. While I have always been intrigued by water and enjoyed the feeling of going into a cool lake on a hot summer day, swimming was just not something I thought I could do. Summer after summer I told myself I would get serious about learning to swim and year after year I failed to even begin.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Perhaps it was the bluntness with which Nick's opa suggested ( read: strongly suggested) I learn how to swim or maybe it was knowing that the summer before student teaching was a good time to do it, I decided to take action and sign up for classes. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Armed with my ill-fitting goggles I marched to my local gym and met my instructor at 6:45AM on a Tuesday morning. Anyone who knows me can attest to the fact that I love my sleep and giving up my usual 9 hour slumber is not something I normally do. But I was committed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> As usual I tried to keep my expectations low so as to not put too much pressure on myself. The instructor began by having me do a variety of exercises to get accustomed to the water on my face and every one of them was so beyond my comfort zone I honestly wouldn't have done them if I didn't have so many people holding me accountable. As the people pleaser that I am I certainly didn't want to let anyone down so I pushed through. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Each new exercise pulled me out of my comfort zone and into the scary place of not being in control. Going under water, allowing my body to float, touching the bottom of the pool and jumping into the shallow end were all so incredibly difficult for me it would take me many gut wrenching minutes to finally try it. While my fears were not in any way based on reality, they were crippling and painful. Every time the instructor asked me to complete a new task (retrieve an object from the bottom of the pool, etc...) my body would immediately go into total panic and I would shake uncontrollably, which would often last for many hours after each lesson. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As my third lesson was ending, my instructor asked me to try to swim across the shallow end of the pool. He made it clear that I could always stand up half-way and begin again if needed. He also gave me the option of wearing my trusted bubble. I figured I had nothing to lose at this point since I was already in panic mode so I left the bubble behind and allowed myself to float and quickly began to kick and make my way to the other side. It took me a few seconds to realize I was swimming without a floatation device and only a few seconds more to reach the other side. The smile on my instructor's face and the affirming applause from the lifeguard who had witnessed my many attempts at beating this paralyzing fear of water made this feat even more real and gratifying. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Ahhhhh the joy of letting go. I'm not sure if this is unique to me but I often find myself so comfortable with my fears that I'm hesitant to let them go. (No, Lord! I like my fear! It's actually quite cozy!). I often take for granted the fact that the way something is now is how it will always be, but am always pleasantly surprised by the possibilities God presents me with. What a good father we have, guys! And while my task is far from complete and I'm committed to improving as a swimmer, I have already learned so many lessons.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I have learned that my crippling fear of falling keeps me from trying so many things! From allowing my body to float to fun activities such as skating or pursuing new adventures, such as new job opportunity, I am great at doing what is right in front of me, but often hesitant to try things I may fail at. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I have learned that fear is often completely divorced from reality. While jumping into a shallow pool will likely not bring me to my deathbed, my fears told me it would. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I have learned that the way my body feels, whether it is shaking uncontrollably or urging me to do something my mind would rather not do, is not always the best indicator of what action to take.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Finally, I have learned that sometimes it is better not to fight nature. I've learned that swimming is not so difficult after all if I can keep from freaking out and fighting my body's natural tendency to float.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As anything in life, swimming is about using what God has given me and putting it to use while trying my best to overcome the inner voices that tell me I can't do it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Stepping out of my comfort zone can be scary and even physically painful, but it can also lead to greater confidence in God's protection and trust in the many possibilities he places in front of me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Who knew jumping into a pool could be such an effective spiritual exercise? </span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-38932301723087958352015-04-24T09:48:00.000-07:002015-04-30T18:12:35.777-07:00Twenty-three from twenty-three :-)It's hard to think that in just a few hours I will be 24! With trips and many adventures, 23 was so good to me!!!!!!! While there was something good in each of the past 365 days, here are some highlights! (Please excuse the blurry pics.) <br>
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1. New friends!<br>
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2. Disney World. I mean, can you believe I had never been???</div>
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3. Being super duper close to finishing school.<br>
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4. Visiting with the Mission Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.<br>
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5. And of course, following them all around Baltimore and D.C.!<br>
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6. Summer of 2014. <a href="http://happyshiningblessed.blogspot.com/2014/08/hello-world.html" target="_blank">See here.</a><br>
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7. This guy! </div>
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8. Consecration to Our Lady on the feast of the Annunciation led by aforementioned guy. <br>
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9. SEEK 2015.<br>
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10. Meeting the YHOPE community.<br>
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11. Camping!<br>
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12. Weekly (or almost weekly) dinners with this girl.</div>
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13. Getting caught in the rain in Boston on July 4th (it was actually the 3rd). </div>
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14. Learning to swing dance! </div>
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15. Praying the rosary more often.<br>
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16. Daily Mass and Adoration. <br>
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17. Trivia nights!<br>
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18. Mass at the top of Mt. Monadnock (AMAZINGGGGGG)</div>
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19. Super Bowl (not so much the game but the party, oh the party)<br>
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20. Clearwater Beach with the family.<br>
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21. Finding a gelato place nearby. (It's the simple things, man!)<br>
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22. Many hours spent in my very favorite room at MFA! <a href="http://www.mfa.org/collections/featured-galleries/european-painting-1550-1700-and-hanoverian-silver" target="_blank">See here.</a> <br>
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23. Spending time with the teens in our youth ministry! They really are the best! <br>
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So here's hoping 24 brings many more adventures!!!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-79483341021855327192015-02-22T17:31:00.000-08:002015-02-22T17:31:09.304-08:00Easy peasy lemon squeazy... without the tartness.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcJV6-PotryO3Ucgsyb_YrqUF23iN6UCyT9vNWlkjyBblBum9VReANRoMU5LIpar_ZyZ9JRbzsrD-PTLm3SRSPyWT-ynidx3QdoZQ0eovp6Y5b9gRjZ_guMTzdaaOrFJRYYN13KJHJ8mk/s1600/eccelsiastes+311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcJV6-PotryO3Ucgsyb_YrqUF23iN6UCyT9vNWlkjyBblBum9VReANRoMU5LIpar_ZyZ9JRbzsrD-PTLm3SRSPyWT-ynidx3QdoZQ0eovp6Y5b9gRjZ_guMTzdaaOrFJRYYN13KJHJ8mk/s1600/eccelsiastes+311.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Hello everyone!!! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(no response...)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Not sure anyone still reads this blog (yikes), which might be a consequence of my negligence of it.. No worries! I'll just ramble to myself.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The last few months have been crazy busy with school, work, work and all the snow heaven could ever think to send our way! While it has been super hard to maintain a routine, this season has been very blessed, as they always are. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">As we embark on another journey leading up to Easter, I'm constantly reminded of God's protection and care for me. His faithfulness and goodness have carried me through seasons of doubt, anxiety and simply not knowing how this crazy thing called life would ever turn out! It's amazing to see that every mountain and valley was meticulously planned by God to bring me to this very place. And what a joyful place it is! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">As most of you may know, one of the ways God has chosen to show me His care and love this season is through a very precious relationship. While I'll spare you the lovey dovey details (did I lose you yet? No? Good! Hang in there!) I have to say this is exactly what my soul has desired for a loooong time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">And now it is here.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">And it is oh so good!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>"I have found him whom my soul loves." Song of Solomon 3:4</i></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-15819021098902177282015-01-06T07:49:00.001-08:002015-02-22T17:33:51.280-08:00New Year, still me!What?! How is it 2015 already??? I'm not even done with last year's resolutions yet!<br />
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And what a year it was! So many adventures and surprises. If the first days of this year are any indication (I'm waiting for my plane to take off as I write this) I will be doing quite a bit of traveling in 2015 too! </div>
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I was blessed to spend a few days at the magnificent Gaylord Opryland resort in Nashville, TN for SEEK2015. While the food and accommodations were spectacular and I certainly needed some rest, the highlights of the week were the wonderful opportunities to learn more about the faith and witness so many missionary hearts gathered in one place!</div>
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(More on that later...) </div>
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So before I forget , allow me to share some photographic evidence of the weekend: </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-61350715937186573322014-12-28T16:26:00.002-08:002014-12-28T16:32:07.033-08:00Counting my blessings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As the year draws to a close and I reflect on the readings of this feast of the Holy Family, I am reminded of the many blessings the Lord has granted me this year. From the precious memories with family, the many adventures with friends and the clear ways in which God has brought me closer to fulfilling my vocation, this has been a wonderful year, as all years tend to be.<br />
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I was incredibly blessed to have spent some precious time with Mother Mary through a novena to Our Lady of Guadalupe. It was even more special to have the company of a certain man, who kept me accountable though the novena and offered great insights. <br />
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Although pictures can never do it justice, I figured some photos would help solidify in my heart just how blessed I have been. So follow the link below for a compilation of special moments from 2014: <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-6687600461017799202014-11-10T12:40:00.003-08:002015-07-24T18:23:19.993-07:00To Mary<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Time flies when you're discerning your vocation, huh?<br />
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This past month was filled with wonderful changes and many sweet surprises (more on that later).<br />
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One of the highlights of the past weeks was spending a few days with the <a href="http://www.missionhelpers.org/" target="_blank">Mission Helpers of the Sacred Heart of Jesus</a> in Baltimore. It was an incredible opportunity to learn more about their beautiful ministries, which include teaching the Faith, offering counsel to individuals and families and helping to run parishes in the U.S. and overseas. <br />
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It was great to hear each sister's story and to see the passion they have for serving others. What an amazing group of women! <br />
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I made it a point not to ask any questions (of where they were taking me or what the next activity was) and was positively surprised by all they had me do! These very generous sisters had planned my days so that I would spend a few hours with each sister at her work place (parishes, Catholic Charities , archdiocesan offices, etc.) They also found time to take me to tons of historic churches, to D.C., the inner harbor in Baltimore and to Fort McHenry, where Francis Scott Key was inspired to write the Star Spangled Banner. <br />
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Having done so much in so little time, I have to say the one thing that touched me the most was being in so many beautiful places dedicated to the Virgin Mary. I have to say my devotion and reliance on mamma Mary has grown tremendously this past year and I often find myself saying "Jesus, why can't I be more like Mary?" As in patient, wise, prudent and faithful to God. Heaven knows my ascent into sainthood has been quite tricky (see image) but with Mary's unfailing intercession I know <br />
it is not impossible. <br />
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My prayer is that my heart will continue to be shaped by God and will become more like Mary's! <br />
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And now of course, some poor quality pics that won't ever do these places justice:<br />
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<strong>Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception</strong><br />
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<strong>Cathedral of Mary our Queen</strong> <br />
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<strong>Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary</strong><br />
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<em><span style="color: #990000;">"Mary, give me your Heart: so beautiful, so pure, so immaculate; your Heart so full of love and humility that I may be able to receive Jesus in the Bread of Life and love Him as you love Him and serve Him in the distressing guise of the poor."</span></em><span style="color: #990000;"><em>--Blessed Mother Teresa</em> </span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-49601770049833940452014-10-12T15:26:00.002-07:002014-10-12T15:32:50.899-07:00Welch and DickeyColumbus Day weekend was cold and beautiful and joyful and grand.<br />
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We ( the Catholic Outdoor Adventures Club) set out on a three day adventure in the White Mountains. The weekend began with what should have been a two hour drive but became a three-and-a-half pilgrimage to Waterville Valley, where we set up camp. </div>
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The next morning we set out on an loop hike across the summits of Welch and Dickey mountains. The hike provided wonderful views of the fall foliage as the trail wind its way across the open ledges.</div>
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We were blessed to have Fr. Dan Hennessey with us on the hike and enjoyed the luxury of celebrating mass at the camp site. Fr. Dan's words on the similarities between our prayer lives and climbing a mountain were sure appropriate for the occasion!</div>
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On Saturday night we feasted on Scott's burgers, his impressive apple pie and drinks galore ( we felt it was important to remain true to that day's <a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/101214.cfm" target="_blank">first reading</a> ). Scott also gave a rendition of <a href="http://www.poetryfoundation.org/poem/174348" target="_blank">"The Cremation of Sam McGee"</a> (one of my favorite tales). </div>
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The beauty and fun of the weekend was only decreased by the freezing temperatures, which made for nights that felt like years. </div>
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On Sunday morning we packed, chatted and made our way to <a href="http://www.thecman.com/restaurants-and-menus/tilt-n-diner.aspx" target="_blank">Tilt'n Diner</a>. </div>
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While the weekend was certainly great, it was nice to return to warm beds and hot showers!</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>"On this mountain the LORD of hosts </b></i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px;"><i><b>will provide for all peoples</b></i></span></div>
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px;"><b>a feast of rich food and choice wines,</b></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px;"><b>juicy, rich food and pure, choice wines." Is 25: 6 </b></span></i></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1555122167333380239.post-37309812902589354292014-09-27T18:32:00.001-07:002014-09-28T13:38:07.340-07:00Ipswich RiverJust when I said we had officially bid farewell to summer, what a surprise ! A gorgeous, sunny, warm day!<br />
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So off we were <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">to an exciting day of kayaking on the Ipswich River!</span><br />
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After a few hours of kayaking, we made our way to Clam Box in Ipswich. It seems everyone else in town had the same idea, so we waited for what felt like an eternity for that greasy deliciousness. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjALoQVq5NavCT9QoH-4oRmy_IloLuGrnV5L0kP_9GB3ItxHcZMzeSuCWmxNAmy5dPJOMWhWukE86ppMjSBYjpj_QIftGSScPB2n9Alajr-oB7kIvj0HM3L102FnNLPHeNKjMV3vvK1bQ8/s640/blogger-image--960735474.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjALoQVq5NavCT9QoH-4oRmy_IloLuGrnV5L0kP_9GB3ItxHcZMzeSuCWmxNAmy5dPJOMWhWukE86ppMjSBYjpj_QIftGSScPB2n9Alajr-oB7kIvj0HM3L102FnNLPHeNKjMV3vvK1bQ8/s640/blogger-image--960735474.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanks Kev Oullette for the pic!</td></tr>
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Because five hours together isn't enough, we headed to Downriver Ice Cream in Rowley, where I had the best almond joy ice cream ever!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjhndqkovX44IMGO0l_Z6UREkfHZHpdREy-fdheqx428xMR4pcYhZJE0f71m4blO4Lx27r10s6oKccCbKe1z5sO7VBm7lbdHCVEpPFLoOZC90ZB1PFhyrG_xxepO29f3-6MFPmhdhtMnU/s640/blogger-image--1961928272.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjhndqkovX44IMGO0l_Z6UREkfHZHpdREy-fdheqx428xMR4pcYhZJE0f71m4blO4Lx27r10s6oKccCbKe1z5sO7VBm7lbdHCVEpPFLoOZC90ZB1PFhyrG_xxepO29f3-6MFPmhdhtMnU/s640/blogger-image--1961928272.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">thanks Kev!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBeWkfO5w6lO44nzT_ESMGgsL3ABLLOjZboaCe0R9w18R-wudJKfvnq1uYrpHv1JblXvKZIymPY4iSTEq5B5PcBhH22OuhuazTsV5WpVBZK6l37ShbtJCFSZ0F3pfZ2eH_vuuRFInDGl0/s640/blogger-image-87890217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBeWkfO5w6lO44nzT_ESMGgsL3ABLLOjZboaCe0R9w18R-wudJKfvnq1uYrpHv1JblXvKZIymPY4iSTEq5B5PcBhH22OuhuazTsV5WpVBZK6l37ShbtJCFSZ0F3pfZ2eH_vuuRFInDGl0/s640/blogger-image-87890217.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">thanks again Kev !</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBXwYn3ehv7-96gf6AsQEY6mAw_3iCQyVzFfOVtHQXXzgkk-w8wT8LoHDkNYFF3lzDf8o_eFEohyphenhyphenfUzqJSWFSvv2Dn_TymrTW6OVt4GLLl1uvFghPo9zqohq1c-HF7APeXPsT4Z0xjtyE/s640/blogger-image--815109177.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBXwYn3ehv7-96gf6AsQEY6mAw_3iCQyVzFfOVtHQXXzgkk-w8wT8LoHDkNYFF3lzDf8o_eFEohyphenhyphenfUzqJSWFSvv2Dn_TymrTW6OVt4GLLl1uvFghPo9zqohq1c-HF7APeXPsT4Z0xjtyE/s640/blogger-image--815109177.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">jee you're so great Kev!</td></tr>
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I must say, what a day!</div>
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<strong><em>"You could not step twice into the same rivers, for other waters are ever flowing on to you." - Heraclitus</em></strong></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12688968139435237746noreply@blogger.com0