Annunciation Novena

Novena Dates: March 16-24
Feast Day: March 25

I greet you, Ever-blessed Virgin, Mother of God, Throne of Grace, Miracle of Almighty Power! I greet you, Sanctuary of the Most Holy Trinity and Queen of the Universe, Mother of Mercy and Refuge of Sinners!

Most loving Mother, attracted by your beauty and sweetness, and by your tender compassion, I confidently turn to you, miserable as I am, and beg of you to obtain for me from your dear Son the favor I request in this novena (mention your request).

Obtain for me also, Queen of Heaven, the most lively contrition for my many sins and the grace to imitate closely those virtues which you practiced so faithfully, especially humility, purity and obedience. Above all, I beg you to be my Mother and Protectress, to receive me into the number of your devoted children, and to guide me from your high throne of glory.

Do not reject my petitions, Mother of Mercy! Have pity on me, and do not abandon me during life or at the moment of my death. Amen.

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be.

A joyful day!

From St. Augustine, we headed to Gainesville to witness the baptism of baby Kieran into the Church! It was great to spend some downtime with the nephews as well. Looking foward to having you all here for Easter!!

Gabe's mother, Mona, with the boys.


Love this precious boy!


Kieran smiled the whole time...

...until the water hit him :)


The godparents

Lovely mother!

These boys are growing up TOO fast!

Spring Break Adventures

Well, this past Tuesday hubby and I fiannly got away for our spring break. We spent a delightful 2 days at Disney World; one of which we met up with Laura and her little family, which completly made my day. :) The boys are growing up so fast, too fast.











Then Andrew and I headed out to the coast to St. Augustine. Although it rained the duartion of our time there, we made the most of it, and enjoyed exploring this quaint town, which still exudes the Spanish influence of those who first settled there.

Semper Fi...

Just a few pictures from Ave Maria University's Marine Gala 2010. For those who don't know, this event raises awareness and funds for the university's military scholarship, of which Andrew is a grateful recipent! This year it took place on February 27 at the Ritz Carlton in Naples. Delicious drinks, appetizers, and food! There were also some inspiring and faith-filled talks given by generals.

(Thanks for contributing to my birthday gift, Mom, Laura, Catherine and Chris!)

Birthday Cheer

The week of my birthday was extremely busy for me, but we managed to squeeze in some celebratory time, including a little surprise party from hubby, which I came home to the evening of my birthday. Thanks for the cake, Christine!



We were matching (upside down)!




Then this Sunday evening, Christa and I went out to celebrate our birthdays (Feb. 23 & 24) with a few friends. Thanks for treating me, Rose!!


The birthday girls

Great group of ladies

A brief respite

This past Saturday hubby pulled me away from my work and studies for a few hours. We accomplished some errands then went for a walk on the beach. Ben met up with us for a delicious dinner at a traditional Greek cafe and a round of minature golf. A lovely and much-needed breather for me!


The peaceful, beautiful ocean reminded me of St. Catherine of Sienna's words that I read for class this past week: "You, eternal Trinity, are the craftsman; and I your handiwork have come to know that you are in love with the beauty of what you have made, since you made of me a new creation in the blood of your Son. O abyss! O eternal Godhead! O deep sea! What more could you have given me than the gift of your very self?"