Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Meditation from a saint

On this feast of St. John Neumann, I came across some writing of his, which struck a note in me as since the miscarriage, I have been drawing on the consolation of the Eucharistic Presence and have been so grateful for our Lord's sacrifice which not only provides our salvation, but through our participation in this sacrament, allows us to be always united to those who have gone before us. Would that everyone would know this beautiful union with our Lord!! It is when myself and Andrew have felt the closest to Francis/es Gabriel. The following comprises the perfect prayer for my heart which desires to grow ever closer to Jesus in the Eucharist this new year:

"How much I love you, I my Jesus. I wish to love you with my whole heart; yet I do not love you enough. My lack of devotion and my sloth make me anxious. I have one desire, that of being near you in the Blessed Sacrament. You are the sweet bridegroom of my soul. My Jesus, my love, my all, gladly would I endure hunger, thirst, heat, and cold to remain always with you in the Blessed Sacrament. Would that in your Eucharistic presence I might unceasingly weep over my sins. Take entire possession of me. To you I consecrate all the powers of my soul and body, my whole being. Would that I could infuse into all hearts a burning love for you. What great glory would be given to you here on earth, if every heart were an altar on which every human will were laid in perfect conformity with your will to be consumed by the fire of your love."

Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Lancton!

Just a few pictures from the wedding of our friends, Kristen and Jonathan, which took place this past weekend in Houston, TX. We are thankful we were able to make the drive to witness it and participate by singing for it! It was a beautiful wedding, the bride was gorgeous, and the groom just as handsome. We are so immensly happy for you both!

They're married!








Hubby and I dancing the night away...

Saturday, December 26, 2009

A very blessed and merry Christmas to all!

Just a few photos from our Christmas days...we are up in Gainsville, FL with Laura and Gabe for Christmas break, enjoying the cooler weather and family. Yesterday and today were spent baking, playing games, Mass, watching Christmas movies, enjoying stockings and presents, a jigsaw puzzle, and as usual, lots of stories and laughter shared among the adults, and hugs and kisses bestowed upon the boys. Missing our dear family members in WA though...Merry Christmas to you all! Give thanks, for He is born.

"A light will shine on us this day, the Lord is born for us: he shall be called Wonderful God, Prince of peace, Father of the world to come; and his kingship will never end." Is. 9:2, 6; Lk. 1:33

Christmas Eve morning with my cute nephews!
Laura and Gabe's tree
A special ornament...sleep in heavenly peace, little one. (Today marks the 1 month anniversary of his/her birth into eternal life.)
I made Swedish meatballs for our Christmas Eve dinner...
while Aidan snacked...
and Uncle Andrew and Elias watched a Christmas movie.
After Christmas Eve Mass

With my precious nephew and godson, Elias


Poor Uncle Ben had just had foot surgery so was laid up on the couch for most of the festivities
Christmas morning stockings

Sunday, December 13, 2009

1 year ago today...

...I met my love at the altar. What a wonderful year it has been as each other's companions. We are so humbled at God's plan and goodness. Happy 1st Anniversary, hubby, I love you so much and am thankful to have you forever. (We actually spent the day/evening at our good friends' wedding, then came home for our own champagne toast and bite of wedding cake, which tasted just as good as it did last year.)






Sunday, December 6, 2009

Thanksgiving weekend recap...

We were very happy to have Laura and Gabe come down the day after Thanksgiving. We had a lovely time filled with fun, love, and laughter. Thank you guys for coming and brightening our spirits!
We celebrated Laura's upcoming 24th birthday...


Played games...

Us girls made Advent wreaths...

My finished wreath

The boys chatted and goofed around...
Sunday morning after Mass...I love my sis, Laura!
Laura and Gabe were so thoughtful and made us a DELICIOUS breakfast


Blessing the Advent wreath and lighting the first candle
Happy Advent! A time to purify, prepare, and make way for the Lord in our hearts.
So much time was spent loving and playing with our precious nephews




Isn't he the cutest?