Is this Narnia's Winter Wonderland?

We woke up to a beautiful winter wonderland. It is one of the most gorgeous scenes we have observed this winter. The trees are beautiful, just completely covered with snow--stunning! Here are a few pics from early this morning. At about 6:30am-7am, Madge looked out the window, saw the snow and said, "Let's go sledding!" Thank God for early risers... and the many things we can accomplish by 7:30am!

My Sleeping Beauties

Madge and Pita,
My two sleeping beauties (I have another one, but I don't know if I should call him/her "pansome" or "a beauty" :) Every night I love to see you asleep, so snug and sweet in your bed. Madge, each night we come into your room to turn off your angel night light and kiss you one last kiss good night. That is one of my favorite moments, those kisses! Dad always teases me by telling me "No kisses," saying that I will wake you, but either way, I have to get that last one in. You still have those sweet lips that were overflowing from your sweet face the moment you arrived into this world. Peach, the other night you had such an adorable posture in bed-- what a little babes. Dad was telling me this morning that when you woke up in the middle of the night he went to get you from your bed and you were just calling, "Mo-mmie! Mo-mmie!" I love you so much, my sweet girls. Whether awake or asleep, you give me a big smile.

My Best Friend

A few weeks back when my Mom was out here visiting she was kind to stay with the girls one evening and put them to bed while Caleb and I went out on a date to a dinner theatre just down the road. We had a wonderful time together just talking, enjoying dinner and a really good show The Christmas Carol. The neat thing about this theatre is that the waiters are actors in the play. So, before going on stage they take intermission drink orders since they come back out to serve before returning to the performance. Caleb, remember how cold it was that night? That first cup of decaf coffee totally hit the spot... so nice! Most of all, thank you for taking me out on such a special date just minutes from home. It was so nice being with you and so nice having such a short drive in our return to our munchkins. That was our first date with this baby, just a threesome. I loved every moment.

Sweet Little Baby

Dear Little One,

What a delight you are and I give God thanks for your life growing within me. (You are now 15 weeks in life--16 weeks tomorrow, Sunday January 31, 2010) You have been moving so much, and there is nothing like the reassurance of your movements that tell me all is well in there. I know that your angel is there with you, just like the little baby in the Angel in the Waters book that your Aunt and Uncle gave biggest sister Maddy who loves to read it. You biggest sister Maddy and bigger sister Pita absolutely love kissing you and talking to you. Whenever Pita hears one of us say, "tummy" or "baby" she immediately begins smacking her lips together and coming to give you a kiss in my tummy. You have brought so much peace and joy to our lives this far. I have no idea what God has in store for you in the months and years to come. All I do know is that every day with you is a gift. We will take that gift and give thanks.

More Snow and Warm Times Inside

This morning snow began falling, and it is beautiful. There were three cardinals in the tree that hangs over our backyard, and then a blue jay arrived. The girls are enjoying the outdoors by sitting at the bay window in the kitchen and looking out to the flurries that keep coming down so beautifully. How thankful we are to be indoors, warm. We pray for those who have no home or who are fighting to keep warm in the home they do have.

Photos from the Visit of Caleb's Family

Caleb's family was in town over the weekend for the March for Life. Below are some photos from our time together. Some of our best memories include: evening games (Pictionary, Tripoli, 10 to 1), visiting the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, the cousins enjoying their every minute together, the March for Life, visiting the National Zoo, catching dinner at 5 Guys. Twas lovely. Thanks, everyone for coming out! We loved our time together!

We are Pro-Life! January 22, 2010

We joined the estimated 300,000 people marching for the voiceless. It was a memorable miracle that, even with an 80% chance of rain, the day was dry and sunny. Thank you, God.

This is serious...so, don't laugh...

Skiddely... Italy--What's the Difference?

We were just down in the basement where our huge floor mat of the world is. Madge was jumping onto different countries asking, "Who lives here, Mom?" I would try and think if we knew someone living in such and such a country, etc. Then, she jumped to the next country, and said, "Skiddely lives here!" It was Italy. He-he! I love you, Madge. I bet in Skiddely they serve those little candies that you've had before and like.. Wait, what do you call them. Oh, yeah, "Skwiddles." I think Skiddely might have those Italian Skwiddles!

To Our Little Pookie in Utero

Dear Little One,

We love you! You turned 15 weeks old (sort of, since you were conceived) a couple days ago. Congrats. You've come a long way, baby.

This past week we were able to feel you moving about for the first time. You were like a hard lump on right hand side of Mom's abdomen. One evening before her bedtime, your big sister Madge was able to feel you move. She became so excited and said, "Mom, my little baby is smiling at me." I suppose you were...

We can't wait to meet you, Little One. We have so much love that we want to share with you. Your other big sister, Pita, goes off anytime we say the word "baby." She immediately runs to wherever Mom is, lifts up Mom's shirt to unveil the little bump you are and kisses Mom's tummy. "Baby" is now like Pavlov's bell for her. In a word, she can't wait to meet you, too!

Mom insists that you are a boy. I believe that you are a little girl. Although we could find out at an upcoming sonogram, we've decided to keep your sex a surprise for the time being. (Can't say we won't change our minds, but we're pretty much decided at this point.) Keep growing, Little One. We love you.

Love,
Dad

Dad, I just want you to hold me!

Dear Madge,

Thanks for bringing me back yesterday. You taught me an important lesson.

When I got home from work, I initiated an art project with you. I figured it would be a fun way for us to spend time together. I missed you all day at work and looked forward to being with you. After a few minutes on the project, you took a break and began to lean on my shoulder. I asked you if you wanted to do the project with me, since it would be a fun time together. You replied in tears, "Dad, I just want you to hold me." I promptly stopped the project. We went over to sit in the big maroon chair in the living room. I held you on my lap. That worked for me. It was so nice just to hold you, my arms wrapped tightly around you as laid your head on my chest. In the midst of busyness, projects, trying to get work done, productivity, fun activities, etc., there is always room--no, the need--to just hold one another.

I love you. Your mom and I fall in love with you more and more with each passing day. You are our joy and our delight.

Love,
Dad

A Technological Silving Lining

As we know, most tools are value-neutral. The ways in which the tools are used give the tools a certain value. In light of the cultural and moral onslaught that has accompanied the technological revolution of the past decade, it's nice to see the silver linings from time to time.

Apparently, there's basically a natural family planning (NFP) application for iPhones. A recent article details how a British couple was able to conceive thanks to the use of this app. Not that paper and pen won't do the trick, but for the modern and tech savvy generations, there's an app now for NFP. Let's see if the diocesan NFP classes begin using this as a teaching tool!

Miss Madeleine Ballerina

Today was Maddy's first ballet class, and she was so excited to start. Last night she got out of bed and started to come down the stairs. When I met her part-way, she asked, "Is it almost Tuesday?" (She was super ready for ballet.) This morning she was showing Pita how she should go up on her toes and hold her hands to do ballet. Madge, you looked so sweet and pretty today... with your leotard on, skirt, little pink ballet shoes and bun- so petite! I peeked in before your class started and you were looking in the mirror with Moi holding her hand and all the girls were holding hands in a circle. When we talked about your class last week you said, "Mom, I'll need you to help me on stage." I told you that you wouldn't be headed to your premiere yet. :0) (You love to put on your own plays.. and love theatrical performances in general... so the stage is on your mind!) The other day, Madge, you asked, "Who will be my teacher, Mom. Will it be you?" No, not this time. But, I can't wait to practice with you. I love you, Miss.

White House (West Wing) Tour

Towards the end of November, we went with our friends Tom, Rebekah and Moira for a tour of the West Wing of the White House. My friend, Neal, who works for the White House, gave us a personal tour. Mr. Obama was out in China at the time, so we had the Oval Office to ourselves...he, he, he.

Madge and Moi had a grand time, as did the rest of us. Below are some photos. One of the benefits of working in our nation's capital.

Big Sister, Little Sister

Big sister, little sister, a love that is so strong. Big sister, little sister, best friends all year long. (Taken from Big Sister, Little Sister).

Madge and Pita, I love you so much and it makes me so happy to see how much you love being together. Pita, you get so excited to see your big sister awake from her nap, and you go around trying to call Maddy, "Ma-aa!" Maddy, today Pita bumped her head and you squatted down and asked, "Did you bump your chin or your head, and then you kissed her boo-boo. I love you, two. You crack each other up, and you do the same for me and Daddy.

The Signs

Thank God for the signs of pregnancy... like today: a bowl of stew at 8:50am. It's noon somewhere!

The CosmOclan Expands!

We're excited to announce that the CosmOclan is growing! Our little one is due on July 19. Six more months to go. Madge and Pita are showering Mare's tummy with kisses throughout the day. (I will have to post some pics and videos of that one.) Here are some photos from our last ultrasound. We appreciate prayers for this pregnancy as there have already been some bumps along the road. We experience profound peace in knowing that the process and plan are in the hands of someone much more powerful and knowledgeable than us!

Pictures from our Big Snowfall (2 weeks ago now)

Breastfeeding by the Numbers

I found the below graph interesting. While everyone has different reasons for or against (and for when to stop) breastfeeding, it is informative to see the raw statistics in the United States. From personal experience, I can say that breastfeeding, like many eating choices, easily becomes a lifestyle. I count it as a significant blessing for our family.

My Girls

My girls: Where would I be without them? Yes, estrogen flows without restraint throughout the house. But, that's a welcome thing since my girls are also the ones who provide me with such joy, love, and laughter. Each has grown and matured in her own way throughout the past year and my relationship--unique and special--with each of them continues to evolve and augment with time. One of my greatest joys is being able to provide for you and offer the gift of myself. I love watching you interact. I love seeing the little girls play together. I love seeing the facial expressions and antics that they come up with. I love to see you, Mares, being silly with them--all too frequently the head hoodlum in the ruckus. The love between you is so strong. I can only hope and pray that these relationships continue to grow. It would be unrealistic to hope that we, our relationships, and our circumstances remain the same, since they inevitably will not. Life is ever changing around us. Nevertheless, I hope that we can all grow together. While there are always doubts about the future, I know I never need doubt your love. The fact that we'll weather the future together as a family is of great solace and assurance to me.

All too often, I feel like words fail to capture or express the emotions I have. Words--no matter how well chosen or eloquently spoken--fall short of relaying to you all the true love and devotion I have for you. Sometimes, I will hold you, Madge and Pita, in my arms and look at you in the eyes and say, "do you have any idea how much I love you?" I don't know much you understand or how much my words convey. I hope, however, that this message can be read from looking at my eyes (all too often moist these days from the joy of having you) and from my actions of service to you. It could be a simple thing like going down to the kitchen one more time for an ice cube for your water before you go to bed, Madge. It could be climbing the stairs with you on my back ad nauseam, Peach. Either way, I hope that the message gets across to you loud and clear: you are loved, you are safe, you are secure, you needn't worry, Daddywads is here. As for you, Mares, I know that you understand my words, but I still feel like they're inadequate. I guess all I can do is keep bringing you bottles of water and tickling you to show you my love. You can also look forward to more bunion massages, head massages, extra pillows at night, and a listening hubby when you feel huffy. (Not that that ever happens.)

Thank you for all the joy and love you give me. I doubt I will ever truly appreciate you for the gift that each of you is to me but I will surely live and die trying. I love you.

My Little Princess

A couple funny princess stories. As a general rule, we try to avoid all things princess since I believe that the princess concept engenders sentiments of entitlement, wimpiness, and a distorted vision of the world around us ("happily ever after"...not in this world!). That's not to say that we in any way discourage pretending or dress-up--something we really do enjoy and encourage. But, princess, um, no. (On the flip side, parents can use the princess image to encourage positive behavior such as gentility, proper manners, grace, etc. Undoubtedly there are sociology and psychology books dedicated to the topic somewhere.) That being said, below are two Madge princess stories:

1. A couple weeks ago, Madge told me, "Dad, my name is Maddy. But, you can call me 'princess' if you want to.'" I said, "Thanks, Madge. I'll note that." Not going to be happening soon, but nice to know I have her lady's leave to address her as such.
2. Two days ago, Madge said, "Dad, my name is Madge, I'm a girl, I'm three, and I'm a princess." Okay, Madge. I got the memo!
   

The Simple Pleasures of Life

I am just about to sit down to finish up some Christmas cards. Beside me I will have my beautiful Canadian candle, given to me by my new friend Meghann a couple of days ago; the smell of its aroma; pine branches; sweet and tangy oranges; and a cup of hot tea on my new little hand-sewn coaster (very girly:) made by another person, a new friend, who at this point, remains anonymous. The only thing I know, which was the best part of the gift, was that she made it for me while praying a Hail Mary for me. So, amidst the glow of my beautiful candle and the taste of hot tea, I will have Our Lady there too, helping me to do a better job as a wife, mom, daughter, sister, friend.

Interesting Graph

From American Thinker:

Source: ACT.org: 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005. (ACT apparently stopped reporting separate homeschool results starting in 2006.)

(Belated Post) Photos from Our Visit to Michigan

(Belated Post) Photos from Our Visit to Seattle

(Belated Post) Beeba and Uncle Joe Visit to Help Us Move

A couple months belated, but want to share the photos from our time together...

The Crafty Crank

Dear Madge,

Mom is currently putting you to bed. We had just taken showers and got dressed for bed, followed by a book and yogurt in the kitchen. It was past 7:30pm. You were a crabby butt. You had three tantrums within a 20 minute time span. Boy, sometimes you can test our patience! But, you also made me laugh. One of your tantrums occurred because you wanted Mom to put your pajamas on you. Since Mom was putting Pita to bed, she was unable to put your clothes on and I carried out the task. You settled down after a few minutes as we read your book and slurped yogurt. However, when Mom came down the stairs (Pita already asleep--woohoo), you started to cry and request that I take off your pajamas so that Mom could dress you. I looked you in the eyes and said, "Madge, the pajama conversation is over. We are not going to talk any more about pajamas. Do you understand? If you do, there will be no more book or yogurt." You paused, then began a new plea, "Dad, I want Mommy to put something on me." I gave you the look. "Dad, I said something, I didn't say pajamas!" All true, but.... Needless to say, I had to refine the small print of the discipline contract.

I hope, dearest Madge, that when you read this twenty years from now, you'll be able to look back with fondness on all these memories of our time together. We're working our very best with you now to provide you with the discipline you need. Even more important than the formation of the intellect is the formation of the will. I hope that we can help you tame that little ole will of yours (unfortunately blighted by bloody original sin). If successful, that will be our greatest gift to you.

We love you now and for always,
Dad

Sweet 17

My Dear Little Guadalupe,

Happy 17 Month Birthday, Peach! Today you have officially been in the outside world with us for seventeen months. We have already formed so many wonderful memories with you. You have impacted in our lives in ways that one couldn't even begin to fathom. Personally, I can't imagine life without you. You're quite the little character. You've always seemed wiser than your age. Even now, you seem so aware of everything going on. You interact with us so much, even though you lack the words. (Mom told me that just this morning, when she asked who wanted to walk to feed the ducks at the river, you raised your little hand and said "eee".) You run around the house non-stop and babble in equal measure. My favorite part of the day is invariably returning home after a day at the office. You and your sister are always there, waiting at the door, with exultant faces and armed with hugs and kisses.

I love you, Peach. Thanks for all the love and joy that you have brought to our family, to our life. I enjoy every moment with you and look forward to the rest of our lives together. Never forget how much I love you. Thanks also for keeping your mother and me on our toes: you're so busy that we're constantly chasing you around!

Love,
the Dad who loves you soooo much