Abiding Faith: Our Journey of Real Learning

NY times article

2012-01-21T12:18:00.000-05:00

As a writer, this article was not written well. First of all, why write an article until you have all the facts including a copy of DSM V in front of you. I am not defending DSM V. I will not jump the gun until I have all the facts. I have a child with autism so this does impact us, but you need the facts. I have been on facebook and people are going crazy over this article. I have learned from the past until you have proof of anything you can't prove anything.
If the DSM V supports what the article says, then it is not fair. We have a responsibility as a community and country to give all special needs children a fighting chance, whether they have autism or a learning disability. I have lived this journey and believe me it makes you a stronger person. Each autistic child is different just like each person God made is.

Praising Him Joyfully,
Noelle

Homeschooling, Special Needs, and a diagnosis

2012-01-18T21:07:00.000-05:00

The last couple of days I have thought alot about my faith and being a mom who has a special needs child. God always seems to shine on the truth in the open. I am not embarrassed about my life. I am very grateful for it. God has allowed me to become a special mom to a special child. Yesterday I was humbled by the evaluator of a test I took him too. She told me that I have done so much for him, though he has a journey still to climb, he has gone beyond what others have expected. For the first time in 6 years, I heard someone tell me homeschooling was the best thing I could have done for him. She even told me I should become an advocate for special needs kids who are homeschooling. She was very impressed with me. I was so humbled and almost on the verge of crying. He finally got his diagnosis of Autism. He is high functioning on the spectrum. Anyone who has met him would know that. She told me he is very bright. It is not just me being his mom. What a journey it has been! I feel blessed by Autism, because it has allowed me to see the world in a different light, the way God intended for our family. My close support system you all know what we have been through thank you being there.
I am proud of him and my daughter. They are my greatest accomplishment in this world. Homeschooling has just enhanced that. There is only person I have to answer to and that is my Lord and Savior. I am doing the work He wants me to do. I feel so Blessed he asked me to do it. He has given me so much Grace through it. Thank you Lord, for the small miracles this week and there were many.

Tapestry of Grace

2012-01-07T10:00:00.000-05:00

As a mother of two special needs homeschoolers, I found a curriculum that will connect the dots especially for my daughter. Yes I have tried many curriculum packages but they never worked. Unit studies always have, she thrives on them. For many year I wanted to try Tapestry of Grace but never did. Now I am, after downloading a free 3-week trial I can see how this will work effectively. We have always used the Great Books approach and a classical education and this fits our work much better together. I will keep you posted and do a review after a week or so.

Praising Him Joyfully,
Noelle

Gluten free baking

2011-12-21T22:31:00.001-05:00

Okay so this is my second year being Gluten Free. I have some really good recipes and some new ones I tried this year and failed. I need to find a good sugar recipe for my daughter. My attempt failed. Uggh!!! So if anyone out there reads my blog and has a good one let me know. I haven't found a really good one yet. Someday I hope to have a hang of it all. My kids are totally gluten free, but I will be making it totally over starting after Christmas for my health and to be a great example to my children.
On a side note after the holidays, we will be going sugar free and using agave and honey entirely to bake and use with tea and such. We will see how it works.

Praising Him Joyfully,
Noelle:)

Special Needs Moms Rock

2011-12-20T21:59:00.001-05:00

Special needs moms rock:
1. Because they never thought that "doing it all" would mean doing this much. But they do it all, and then some.
2. Because they've discovered patience they never knew they had.
3. Because they are willing to do something 10 times, 1,000 times if that's what it takes for their kids to learn something new.
4. Because they have heard doctors tell them the worst, and they ref...used to believe them.
5. Because they have bad days and breakdowns and bawl fests, then they pick themselves up and keep right on going.
6. Because they manage to get themselves together and out the door looking pretty damn good. Heck, they even make sweatpants look attractive.
7. Because they are strong. Who knew they could be this strong?
8. Because they aren't just mums, wives, cleaners, chauffeurs, cooks and women who work. They are also physical therapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, teachers, nurses, researchers, coaches and cheerleaders.
9. Because they understand their kids better than anyone else does - even if they can't talk or gesture or look them in the eye. They know. They just know.
10. Because just when it seems like things are going OK, they're suddenly not, but they deal. They deal even when it seems like their heads or hearts might explode.
11. Because when they look at their kids they just see great kids. Not kids with CHD/cerebral palsy/PCH/autism/Down syndrome/ADHD/developmental delay/whatever label. ♥

Christmas Wishes and Evaluation of the year

2011-12-19T15:05:00.000-05:00

It's been awhile since I have been on. A lot has changed in my life the past 6 months. First, I have been homeschooling for 6 years and my oldest entered into high school. She is still homeschooling and loves it. My son is going to be officially tested for Asperger's at the beginning of 2012 will continue to be home schooled too. So we will see. I went back to work part-time working for an awesome employer, Homeschool Connections as a monitor. I absolutely love it.
God is sending me on a different journey than I was going to go on. I was planning to start teaching online again and still might do that, but He is calling me on a journey he started me on in third grade--Writing. It is scary thing to process. As the Blessed Mother said," The Almighty has done Great Things." Nothing is impossible for God. My son has me back on this quest, Asperger's has become front and center lately. In prayer today, I got my answer. I will write about it in another blog. Great things are to come.
I have a Christmas Wish for you all a safe and healthy Christmas and New Year.
I want to wish all my Jewish friends a Happy Hanukkah!
I wish everyone a very Blessed Christmas! For those on the other side of the Atlantic Have a Happy Christmas!

Please Remember that Christmas is Christmas because of Christ who dwells in us.

Praising Him Joyfully,
Noelle

When you thought I wasn't looking.....

2011-11-02T21:01:00.001-04:00

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you hang my first painting on the refrigerator, and I immediately wanted to paint another one. ♥

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you feed a stray cat, and I learned that it was good to be kind to animals. ♥

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you make my favorite cake for me and I learned that the little things can be the special things in life. ♥

When you thought I wasn't looking, I heard you say a prayer, and I knew there is a God I could always talk to and I learned to trust in God. ♥

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you make a meal and take it to a friend who was sick, and I learned that we all have to help take care of each other. ♥

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you give of your time and money to help people who had nothing and I learned that those who have something should give to those who don't. ♥

When you thought I wasn't looking, I felt you kiss me good night and I felt loved and safe. ♥

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you take care of our house and everyone in it and I learned we have to take care of what we are given. ♥

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw how you handled your responsibilities, even when you didn't feel good and I learned that I would have to be responsible when I grow up. ♥

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw tears come from your eyes and I learned that sometimes things hurt, but it's all right to cry. ♥

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw that you cared and I wanted to be everything that I could be. ♥

When you thought I wasn't looking, I learned most of life's lessons that I need to know to be a good and productive person when I grow up. ♥

When you thought I wasn't looking, I looked at you and wanted to say, "Thanks for all the things I saw when you thought I wasn't looking. ♥

EVERYONE influences the life of a child.

Consulting and Tutoring

2011-11-02T14:00:00.000-04:00

After careful prayer and suggestions from my sisters in Christ and prayers from them, I decided to do part-time consulting and tutoring. As most of you know, I work part-time for Homeschool Connections as a monitor and I love it. We need a second income coming in and I am praying and hoping to start up my writing career as well in the near future. It has been a tough start to this school year and when everything levels out I will starting that again as well.

Ipieta and Irosary

2011-11-02T11:32:00.004-04:00

For those who are tech savvy I highly recommend Ipieta and Irosary. Ipieta has the same things the Pieta book has in an app. Storm prayers, morning prayers, prayers for different ailments. It has been a Blessing for me. I rosary helps people, who are distracted through the rosary, to keep on task. For visual people like myself, it helps me appreciate the Rosary at its fullest. I give these two apps a 10. You will be truly blessed by using them.

Praising Him Joyfully,
Noelle

Apps/Ipad page

2011-11-01T17:29:00.001-04:00

I updated the Apps/ iPad page. All these apps I use on my iPad. I am just sharing with you all what I found effective for my kids and us. Share it.

God Bless!

7 things to know about Autism

2011-10-29T15:17:00.003-04:00

This is awesome press on the link:

http://www.specialeducationadvisor.com/seven-things-i-wish-someone-had-told-me-when-my-daughter-was-first-diagnosed-with-autism/

Part 2 Autism

2011-10-29T12:58:00.001-04:00

Autism and extreme Makeover

2011-10-29T12:01:00.002-04:00

I am no longer my own blogger

2011-10-28T21:11:00.002-04:00

My absolutely favorite blogger at A Holy Experience Posted this. It applies to all bloggers so I am reposting it here:

I am no longer my own blogger, but Thine, O Lord.

Refine me with each post how You will, rank me how You will.

Put me to service, or put me to suffering.

Let me post for Thee or be put aside for Thee,

Lifted high, only for Thee, or brought low, all for Thee.

Do with me and each post whatever you will, because You alone know best.

Let me not strive but submit Let me not compete but care

Let me not desire hits but holiness

Let me be a follower, instead of seeking followers.

Let my blog be full of Thee, and let it be empty of me.

Let me crave all things of Thee, let me care nothing of this world.

Let my words be worthy of the greatest of audiences: You.

And You are enough.

May I write not for subscribers… but only for Thy smile.

May my daily affirmation be in the surety of my atonement,

not the size of my audience.

May my identity be in the innumerable graces of Christ,

never, God forbid, the numbers of my comments.

May the only words that matter in my life not be the ones I write on a screen ---

but the ones I live with my skin.

I freely and heartily yield every sentence, every title, every post, every comment… or no comments… all to Thine pleasure and perfect will.

My only fame is that I bear Your name

My only glory is the gift of Your Grace

My only readership, Your eyes that seek to and fro to find a heart hard after You.

Make this so, oh Lord…

Yahweh, You alone are my God, not Google

Jesus, You alone are my Savior, not site meters

And Holy Spirit, You alone are my Comforter, not comments

So be it, today, yesterday, and every post to come.

This is my prayer I have made on earth and over this keyboard… let it be ratified in heaven.

New look, New attitude

2011-10-28T19:13:00.001-04:00

Well it was time to change the look of the blog. I am excited about things to come. I hope you all like my new look. I will keep you posted on things to come.

Praising Him Joyfully.

High School

2011-09-12T14:09:00.000-04:00

I am going to start posting our journey through high school with curriculum in my High School Tab to help others, who will be homeschooling High School down the road. Please look for it.

9/11

2011-09-10T20:55:00.000-04:00

I debated whether to write or not about it. I have never written about my personal reflections on 9/11. Partly because even 10 years after my wounds are still healing. So much was lost that day, our innocence, friends/family members, an attack on my Home Town. I grew up in New York and I am proud to say I am from New York. I grew up in one of the 5 boroughs of the city. I had a great childhood and good friends(wink, wink to my childhood friends) 9/11 took one of my childhood friends with it, Brian Canizzaro, who was a New York Firefighter. I live in a family that I have an uncle and cousin who are a firefighters. It is hard thing to watch your husband go out not knowing if he will come back that night. That is the life they live. I always pray for them. Brian did what most firefighter's do that day help people. He died a hero. As I look at my son I realize how lucky he is to have a great dad to grow up, because a lot of father's never came home that day.

I was working at a school that day, I am a teacher, and was told to go home, which I eventually did after they showed us what happened. They pulled people who they knew had family members in NYC, who worked in the city. I felt numb and cried. It was the longest ride home I ever have. Listening to the radio it was so surreal. People were literally stuck in the city. The military was called in and shut down the city, no incoming or outgoing traffic.When has that ever happened to Manhattan? Never in my lifetime. I went to pick up my 4 year old in preschool. She saw my tears and asked me , " Mommy you okay?" I told her I wasn't but I would be. I got home to see my mom in tears who was watching my son. She couldn't reach my dad. The cell towers were shut down. It was the scariest time in my life. He eventually called and said he was on the last train out of New York that MP's would be walking the train through. My dad was working that day and to this day he still can't talk about it. I remember it was the only time besides my wedding I saw him cry. He loves New York; he worked there most of his life and loved the pace. After 911, it changed all of us. Did we recover 10 years after? In some ways maybe. We became smarter, but Wounds are still healing and may take a life time to heal.

For me tomorrow, I will pray. We will spend time in church like we usually do in Sunday. We are going to have a family day together. I am very grateful to have the family I do, because I have a husband who came home that day. My kids have two parents who came home from work that day. I taught kids who either had both or one parent lost that day. So I pray for them and for peace. Isn't that what Christ asked us to do? We need to practice it and receive the grace and healing of it. God Bless you all!

Homeschooling High School

2011-09-01T10:57:00.000-04:00

My daughter grew up like a whirlwind. This is the first year we will be homeschooling high school. I decided to put another page on my blog as this journey is traveled. It is exciting and yet a bit sad too. In 4 short years, she will be off to college starting her own journey of life. I am so excited for her. As a homeschooling teen there is so much for you out there. She will be taking a Spanish course online through Homeschool Connections Online, where I will be also working part-time. So we both are starting on a new adventure this year. I put my book on hold till October when I will have adjusted to the new schedule. Please stay tuned for more developments....

Reflection on Earthquake 2011

2011-08-23T21:16:00.000-04:00

Well all you know by now the East Coast had an earthquake. Yes I live on the East Coast. It is amazing how calm I was. First I thought my vertigo was back. For those of you who don't have it that is how it feels. Then my daughter says um mom the couch is moving, why? My son says Earthquake!!! All I thought is July, a tornado hits us; August an earthquake; this weekend a hurricane is supposed to hit. God is definitely sending signs. Are we listening? It got me thinking really what do we need? What is the message he is sending us? He wants us to simplify our lives inside and out. This means simplifying the things we have in our homes, especially if it is better placed with another person; spiritually de-cluttering our minds and hearts; and to remember to put family and God first. God Bless and keep safe!

Book Review: The Little Way of Lent By Father Gary Caster

2011-08-19T09:34:00.000-04:00

The Little Way of Lent: meditations in the spirit of Saint Therese of Lisieux By Father Gary Caster
Saint Therese always emphasize the small sacrifices we should make for God. Our small steps leads us to the Kingdom of God. Father Gary Caster uses that theme through correlation of meditations along with the readings for each day during the Lenten Season. These meditations give us everyday examples how to walk closer to God, through the sacrifices we make during Lent. I highly recommend this book for a way to enhance your Lent or even everyday life. Using this book either within Lent or outside the Lent season will bring you closer to God with its meditations. It makes you look upon your life and see how you can change it is small ways.

You can find this book at Catholic Company: http://www.catholiccompany.com/little-way-lent-meditations-spirit-st-ther-se-lisieux-p1003037/

Given book to Review by The Catholic Company:
http://www.catholiccompany.com/

Camp and Asperger's

2011-07-19T21:19:00.000-04:00

Camp and Asperger's is hard thing: the anxiety, the social cues, the expectations, the sensory overload. I guess I never written about my son having Asperger's/SPD but he does and I am so proud of him at this moment. His first year at Boy Scout Camp he went for half the week with his dad. At 11, that was a big accomplishment. This year going to camp at 12, without his dad for three days was a leap of faith. We knew he wouldn't make it the whole week, especially alone. In retrospect, he is accomplishing a lot each year huge leaps for him. I am really proud of him. It is better to have tried and failed, than not to have tried at all. I love his troop because it is a small troop and, they try to understand his needs to the best of their ability.

The end is near--Harry Potter

2011-07-15T23:51:00.000-04:00

I want to thank JK Rowling for instilling the love of reading into my children, for guiding me back to writing, and for allowing me to walk into the world through book, that showed such imagination and great writing. Homeschooling helped a lot, but reading this series made them want to read more, like Rick Riordan, whom they currently love. Yes we are Book Geeks and proud of it. I had to write a post after seeing the last movie of Harry Potter. I will miss a new book for this series coming out. Thus a new movie with it. We all knew it had to end. The last book I cried form beginning to end from Hedwig's death to Lupin and Fred's. It just shows how we as human beings all have flaws but how we try to overcome them for the good of others. The movie was awesome. It was better than I thought it would be. It was a great end to a great series. These movies have stayed true to the book, which alot of other series have not. It was amazing to travel through this world as the characters have grown up and see what great young adults they have become. Life is ever changing. It is amazing that this series has lasted for 10 years. Thank you for the memories with my family as we read the books and discussed them. I will leave you all with the final line from the Deathly Hallows book that Harry said: The scar had not pained Harry for nineteen years. All was well.
Good Bye Harry!

Happy 14th Birthday to my daughter!

2011-07-08T09:47:00.000-04:00

Fourteen years ago, I was Blessed by such an amazing gift, my daughter at 2:30 in the afternoon. She has changed my life. A child changes your life. They become the best part of you. I thank God each day for that. There were tough times in our lives, but she always help me be strong through it. She is an amazing daughter. I blinked and you grew up. I am so proud to be her mother. She is becoming quite a young woman. Her journey with God is an amazing one as her watch you walk it. To my daughter: As you go into High School this year, remember 4 years goes so fast. Life is fleeting. Do the things you enjoy, be with those you love, and above all enjoy the journey. Try new things, like photography. Develop your art more, you are an amazing artist. Above all know how much we love you and stand by you no matter what. I love you.

Bridges of Faith

2011-06-28T22:32:00.002-04:00

I am in a Bridge of faith right now. It is a bridge I closed down many years ago. God wants me to take this huge leap and I am really scared to jump. I went to a Tent Revival tonight at church. It has given me the strength to write this blog entry and admit to it. I will cross My bridge. It will be difficult but, I will spend some time there learning how to cross it slowly and enjoy the view. I will leave you will this final thought-- I read The Life as a Mom blog. She says this about Bridges:
Your Bridge
You may be on a bridge. You may be climbing a big, steep mountain. You may be venturing into a frightening valley.
Whether this is a pleasure trip or not, God is there to sustain you, to guide you, to walk with you along the way. It may be a bucket-list kind of adventure, like mine.
It may be a journey that you never asked for — and wish you could turn back from. It may pull you into “survival mode” when really all you want to do is “life as normal.”
But, it is a season. And you will survive.

Graduation 2011

2011-06-20T08:38:00.000-04:00

I am finally rested what a weekend! My daughter graduated on Saturday at our Homeschool co-op with 4 other kids, high school and 8th grade graduation. The speech was awesome. Both my daughter and I cried. She talked about how much credit she gave to her parents who homeschooled her and how much they sacrificed for her. As I started this journey six years ago, I would have never imagined the fruits God has given me. Many people who I once was friends with have walked out of lives. But many more awesome friends have stayed for the journey with us. I have met amazing people through this journey. Some have become our closest and dearest friends and I love you. You all know who you are. As a family we have grown closer to God. The education my daughter has received has far surpassed the education she would have ever got in a school. Schools no longer has the classical education our children are receiving. I truly give Kolbe Academy in Napa Valley, CA alot of the credit. They have shown us how God truly works through this type of education. Our journey will continue into high school with them. I am very proud of my daughter as she has become an independent learner. Her walk with God is truly amazing to watch. I so wish at her age I was so foundational in my faith like she is. God Bless the Class of 2011!

Graduation is almost here

2011-06-10T22:35:00.000-04:00

I am posting this for those of you who read my blog. This week will be crazy, so there won't be any posting until next Sunday after I recuperate from the graduation festivities. I will be writing alot of interesting blogs in the coming weeks so please watch out for the posting.

God Bless!

High School Decision

2011-06-10T22:31:00.000-04:00

God is awesome!!! He gives you answers when you least expect it. After looking through many programs and even looking to make my own transcript. We decided to go with Kolbe Academy. They give me the flexibility I need to choose, while they can do the transcript and recording work. Due to my new business starting up soon and starting my writing career up again, this was the best decision for all of us. No program or way is without pros and cons, but this one works for us. We can still home school with the flexibility we have for the past 6 years.

A look at a homeschool family

2011-06-01T22:23:00.000-04:00

It is funny, you know you are homeschooling when........

-your children are reading in their rooms together discussing two different books.

-when you have science experiments, and art experiments throughout your house.

Imagine Art

2011-06-01T20:43:00.002-04:00

Imagine Art will be at the Point Pleasant Summerfest this Sat. from 11am-7pm,
there will be Airbrush and Acrylic painting demonstrations...Giveaways (classes) and other cool things....hope to see you there! :)

Please come and visit them. This is my daughter's Art School.

ELCAT4U

2011-06-01T20:02:00.001-04:00

This my new business, please visit it. We will be up for business in July, starting with Summer Camps.

http://www.elcat4u.org/
Summer camp programs starting in July. We will offer 4-6 week programs (your choice). Included will be basic math, algebra, writing workshop, reading, language, SATs, PSATs, catch up & review, etc. Classes will be fun but at the same time keeping your child with the knowledge they learned in their previous grade throughout the summer. We will always offer reading tutoring & math tutoring throughout the summer as well as homework help services.

Homeschool Prom

2011-06-01T20:01:00.000-04:00

NJ HOMESCHOOL PROM 2011

DATE: THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011

PLACE: INTRODUCING OUR NEW VENUE, the beautiful -

INDIAN SPRING COUNTRY CLUB

http://www.indianspringgolf.com/index.php

(located in the heart of historic Evesham)

115 South Elmwood Road
Marlton, NJ 08053

TIME: 7:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.

THEME: A NIGHT UNDER THE STARS

TICKET PRICES: $79.00

Ticket includes:

Elegant, Formal affair,

Sit-down 4 course dinner (your choice of Entree'),

Live DJ,

5x7 professionally taken photo -

of you in your beautiful dress or handsome suit.

For More Information:

Visit our website at http://www.arxpub.com/HomeschoolProm/index.html OR

Contact us at njhomeschoolprom@comcast.net

We finished Rome.

2011-06-01T19:55:00.000-04:00

Finally finished Rome. It was an interesting journey since we read The Lost Hero through visit there. We used our unit study approach along with The Famous Men of Rome by Memorial Press. We are off to the Middle Ages next. The Famous Men of Rome is an awesome book that you could use just that to visit Rome through History. It is such an a thorough method of teaching about Ancient Rome and what we should learn from that empire. We are off to the Middle Ages next. God bless you all. Stay cool from this heat.

ELCAT 4 U

2011-05-31T11:01:00.000-04:00

Charlotte's Web Giveaway

2011-05-31T10:47:00.001-04:00

I am giving a away a Collector's Edition of Charlotte Web with a Literature Guide. To be be entered in the giveaway::
1. Follow my blog and make a comment that you are following my blog with your email. Why do you want to win this book and literature guide? All entries will be closed on June 7, 2011. Winner will be announced on June 11, 2011.
2. For an extra entry, you can set up to get my blog through email.

Good Luck!

Weinberg Bill

2011-05-31T09:30:00.000-04:00

I really love how politicians twist situations for their agenda. Please she understands why we homeschool. No she does not. If she did she would not be pressing this bill again. It looks like we need to be at the state capitol again and make our position clear. Has she even see the sad state of affairs in the school system in our state. No Mrs. Weinberg you have no clue why we home school. The school system needs to be revamped, especially the special education department. I go on for many reasons why my children are not in the school system, but why bother, she would twist that too!!!

http://www.northjersey.com/news/crime_courts/122850874_Weinberg_might_revive_bill_to_regulate_home_schooling.html

Guest Post On Snoring Scholar

2011-05-30T23:25:00.000-04:00

I guest posted on Snoring Scholar:

http://snoringscholar.com/2011/05/finding-devotion-to-mary/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+snoringscholar+%28SnoringScholar.com+by+Sarah+Reinhard%29

God Bless!

Review of Faith and Life Grades 6 and 8

2011-05-18T15:39:00.000-04:00

We used Faith and Life Grade 6 and 8 this year. I love this catechism series. Why? Well it is very authentically Catholic. It infuses scripture, the precepts of the church, and the Catholic Catechism. It also teaches about many saints and their Holy walk with God. It guides you through the facets of our faith. There are suggestions on Catholic videos, along with prayers that you learn. You can look at it through Ignatius Press:

http://www.ignatius.com/

To My Daughter

2011-05-18T09:56:00.000-04:00

No words can express how proud I am of you. In a couple of weeks you will be graduating from 8th grade. What a long ride we had, and yet as I write this tears filled my eyes. I watched you grow from a shy little girl to a confident young lady. We saw you struggle in school which lead you to be homeschooled. As we look where you have started you have accomplished so much. You are an awesome artist, with Art and in Music. Even after being diagnosed with a Learning Disability this year, you rose up to the challenge and accomplished so much. You are the best part of me and I am so proud to be called your Mother. The Blessed Mother has always shown me the way to guide you. As you move into High School next year, let her guide you too. When obstacles in the rode come and they will, look to Her and to Jesus to guide you through them. I am so proud of you.

“To have courage for whatever comes in life - everything lies in that.”

St. Teresa of Avila quote

Te Amo,
Mom

The suite life on deck - Graduation [PART 3]

2011-05-08T21:25:00.000-04:00

Book Review : The Magician's Nephew

2011-05-04T11:45:00.000-04:00

The Magician's Nephew is the first in the series of The Chronicles of Narnia. It starts with two kids Polly and Digory having adventures going into different world's, through his Uncle Andrew's magic bracelets. They stumble into this world of Charn, where by accident bring the Witch back into their world. She comes with them into Narnia. It is very descriptive how Narnia begins, with Aslan's song awakening it. The children help Aslan protect Narnia from the Ice Witch. It kept us glued wanting more. It did answer a couple of questions for me: Where the Ice Witch came from? Where the wardrobe came from? To find out more read the book. I highly recommend this book.

My Marian Devotion

2011-04-26T09:28:00.000-04:00

It is funny right after Easter during my Divine Mercy Novena, I started my Marian month devotions in the last week in May. Today I started my Prayer Walk with Mary. Believe it or not, The Blessed Mother helps me loose weight. I do my morning walk while prayer the Rosary with the CD I bought called, Healing through the Rosary by Fr. Robert De Grandis. It is amazing the graces we receive through the Rosary. It keeps me focused on Mary and Jesus through ordinary functions in life. I am setting up my altar today for Mary. We decorate very fancy during the Marian months of May and October. Mary is the rock lately that I cling to. My daughter in particular has had quite the year medically. I thank God everyday for his Blessed Mother that he gave us. During these time when I carry that cross, I look to Jesus and The Blessed Mother for encouragement and guidance.

Spanish for next year

2011-04-25T21:32:00.000-04:00

After researching and looking at the reviews, I looked at Rosetta Stone, Muzzy, Tell Me more, Speekee, along with some apps on the ipad. Most of the reviews were mixed except for Muzzy and Speekee. Speekee is for younger kids. We decided to do Muzzy, in coordination with Spanish Now 1. I will let you all know how it goes.

Bible Study

2011-04-19T12:18:00.000-04:00

The best Bible Study I have gone through was the Kimberly Hahn's Proverbs 31 Bible Study. I recommend it for everyone. From Book1 to Book 3, she explains things that she does and how we can enrich our family lives, lives with our children, our marriage, our walk with God through simple things she does. I have incorporated alot of things she recommends and they really work. My life journey with God has been enriched through it.

Book 1


Book 2

Book 3

The closing of Lent...

2011-04-18T21:24:00.000-04:00

Well I know I haven't written in awhile but I am back to writing or trying daily posts. Why you might say? God is amazing. He guides on paths you least expect until he pops it right in your lap. He is guiding me on a journey or path I thought I gave up on years ago. There is a season for everything. Yes now I am writing again, but a different type of writing, a more seasoned type of writing. I guess He needed me to grow up, experience and appreciate life a bit before I was to write the book I am writing. Then Lent pops into my head. What a Lent this had been? My first thought was it a failure. It has been a trying Lent, but one that is guiding me on a closer path with God. So I guess my Lent was not a failure, at least not in God's eyes. Now as I start Holy Week, I realize what a sorrow, a loss for The Blessed Mother. As I have a son really sick this week, I can feel her pain a little, nothing compared what she went through. When I have to bear my crosses I always to look to her and her son. It is through our crosses that we walk closer with God. Have a Blessed Holy Week.

Praising Him Joyfully,
Noelle

Gluten Free King Arthur Brownies

2011-03-08T10:38:00.003-05:00

I usually make everything from scratch, but decided to try there gluten free brownies. Let me tell you I have tried alot of different mixes and stuff for Gluten free products. These were the best. It was even better than brownies I made with gluten in it years ago. The chocolate melted in your mouth. Absolutely the best brownies I have ever made!!! Kuddos to King Arthur. Keep up the good job!

Gluten and the Allergist

2011-02-21T22:26:00.000-05:00

Today I went for my yearly allergy and asthma checkup. After talking to the doctor today, I realized I need to have myself tested for Celiac. My son having problems with gluten it is genetic. Someone has to have it. Since I have the stomach issues, I have thought over the past several months it was me. So we will be a team fighting for this. Today it just hit home as I talked to him, how it affects everything in your life. It causes so many things I never realized: headaches, migraines, reflux, stomach pain. Jesus, pour your Holy Spirit, upon us as we walk through a new adventure in life.

Book Review: Weaving Faith and Experience

2011-02-06T16:25:00.000-05:00

Weaving Faith and Faith and Experience: A Woman's Perspective by Patricia Cooney Hathaway

I highly recommend this for women in their 40's and beyond. This is a book for the Middle-aged woman. This book is like a quilt that is displayed on the cover. It takes many strands of thought and reflection to develop a quilt. She reflects on the many seasons of our lives and how we interact during those seasons through work, family and close relationships. It shows us through our faith journey, using scriptural references, of Jesus' invitation to come and have a personal relationship with him at every season of life. God invites us to grow in holiness through every season of lives. She points out how our faith is directed through our every days lives, from cleaning the dishes to driving your teen to art classes. It shows us at each how to integrate prayer with Jesus through our everyday lives. One thing that impressed me in this is book is when she talks about,"The Dark Night of the Soul". Everyone has a dark night at some point in their lives, the fork in the road to choose. She talk about how through prayer, Eucharistic adoration, Mass, and meditation we are awakened to God's presence through the darkness times in our lives. He is walking with us. She used Saint John of the Cross as an excellent example of this.

You can find this book at Catholic Company: http://www.catholiccompany.com/weaving-faith-experience-womans-perspective-p1004035/

Given book to Review by The Catholic Company:
http://www.catholiccompany.com/

Rep. James Lankford Pro-Life Special Order for the March for Life

2011-02-03T21:56:00.000-05:00

Day 1 Natural Cleanse--Whole Living style

2011-01-10T18:16:00.000-05:00

I can honestly say I am not hungry today--wow. Eating , fruits and veggies is so more energizing. Check it out at: http://www.wholeliving.com/photogallery/action-plan-2011-day-8

So this is day 1--check me out each day.

Book Review:The Handbook for Catholic Moms: Nurturing Your Heart, Mind, Body, and Soul

2011-01-08T11:29:00.001-05:00

This was such a good book! Being a Catholic mother in today's society is not easy, and she gives you easy to do steps to help you along the way. She covers many topics: Marriage, Church, and your own spirituality. My absolute favorite topic she covered was Mass with kids. We all have been there no matter how old our children and doing damage control in Mass.Sometimes not getting anything out of the homily. The tips she gives you are awesome, very simply put. The book has a list of resources in every chapter. The one aspect of this book that stuck out at me was she showed her mistakes, but pointed out what she should do next time. We all have made mistakes along the way. I recommend this book for any Catholic Mom. I bought this via kindle on my phone, and it was so worth it.

Diigo

2011-01-07T11:05:00.002-05:00

I absolutely love this bookmarking site. It means I no longer will loose my bookmarks even if a computer crashes.

http://www.diigo.com

Need a saint for 2011

2011-01-04T09:52:00.002-05:00

We all need intercessors to help us in daily life. There is a Saint Name generator. Pray about it and then press the button and it chooses the perfect saint for you.

http://jenniferfulwiler.com/saints/

For the Love of Saint Nick

2011-01-02T23:10:00.000-05:00

I read for The Love of Saint Nick, what a great book! It is a tear jerker, so this is your TISSUE ALERT. It is a story about two boys and their father who is naval commander. Their mother died a couple years before. They moved from California to Michigan. In Michigan they had a nanny that took care of them and brought them to Mass. While in Michigan, an extraordinary event event happened on Christmas Eve to the younger of the two boys that changed their lives forever. It also changed their relationship with Jesus and their faith in him. You will have to read the book to find out what happened.

http://www.amazon.com/Love-St-Nick-Garasamo-Maccagnone/dp/1439210128

Special Needs Homeschool: FREEbies

2010-12-27T23:05:00.000-05:00

Special Needs Homeschool: FREEbies: "FREE Learning/Educational Websites I now have all the FREE learning/educational websites in a spreadsheet. It is easy to use, visual, organ..."

Mark Lowrry and Gaither Vocal Band - Mary Did You Know

2010-12-20T21:45:00.000-05:00

Psst… want to save up to $46?

2010-12-17T17:49:00.001-05:00

Hey! I just learned a clean little secret about Lowe’s. They have quite the selection of cleaning products plus air and water filters to help keep your home spic and span inside and out. And they’re sending out up to $46 in savings so you can really clean up. Get your coupons before they’re gone! Go to vocalpoint.com/Lowes.

Special Needs Homeschool: Information Brochures To Help With Understanding I...

2010-12-10T11:18:00.000-05:00

Special Needs Homeschool: Information Brochures To Help With Understanding I...: "Each brochure is two pages, meant to be printed off on both sides of one paper. Then you fold it into three and it's easily handed out...."

Special Needs Homeschool: Contact

2010-12-10T11:11:00.001-05:00

Special Needs Homeschool: Contact

This is an awesome group and website!!! Please come and join.

Catholic Cuisine: Mexican Crispas

2010-12-09T17:13:00.000-05:00

Catholic Cuisine: Mexican Crispas: "To celebrate the feast of St. Juan Diego today we made Mexican Crispas.I referred to them here in this post, but for you visual readers (li..."

Sister Act- I Will Follow Him

2010-12-08T22:15:00.000-05:00

Hail Holy Queen

2010-12-08T22:08:00.000-05:00

Little Flowers,Blue Knights and The Little Women's Hospitality Program

2010-12-08T22:00:00.000-05:00

Yes, I must be nuts, or maybe this all will stop me from thinking our impeding financial issues. We are already running a Little Flowers group in our church already. I am leading Wreath 3. I decided to run The Little Women's Hospitality Program out of my home for the girls, with the all the parents participating Hosting a night. And then decided to run a Blue Knights Club for Special Needs boys--this one I haven't figured out. Let me preface this by saying this was all God in church today on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Thanks to God and Our Blessed Mother. The things I do are always God-inspired.

God Bless,
Noelle

I am thankful for...

2010-11-23T22:08:00.001-05:00

I am thankful for so many things lately. I am thankful for the awesome Parish community we belong to, especially my pastor, Father Williams. Thank you for inspiring our family what the true walk of faith is. This past year has not been an easy one and without our family and friends I don't know what I would do. Thank you for being our witnesses to Christ through the dark valley. I am thank for our parents who helped us and inspired us to keep the faith. I am truly thankful the husband I have. He is truly my best friend in the world, and has made me laugh despite the difficult times we have had. I am so Blessed to have him and for God to send him to me. I feel truly Blessed to have the children I do, true gifts from God. Despite everything we have been through in the past 3 years, they have never complained and trusted completely in God and us. I am truly thankful for the awesome God we have. He believed in me even when I didn't believe in myself. Thirteen years ago, I put my writing career on hold to be a wife to my husband and mother to my children. Well now I am restarting it after God's prompting me to. Some people in my family have said I gave my career up, but I didn't give up anything. Being a wife and mother is the most rewarding of anything I have even done, even more than teaching. Being a mother has been the hardest challenge in my life but I have been blessed my two unique and awesome kids. I love you all. The Blessed Mother has been such a role model for me to follow through my spiritual journey helping me along the way, having me take baby steps. She was my role model in becoming a wife and mother. She guided me back to a saint I long forgot since making my Confirmation, Saint Therese of Liseux, who by her Little Ways followed Our Lord. I am very thankful for those two blessed women who put me on the right track with Jesus. God Bless you all and have a Blessed Thanksgiving!

Clarity, writing , and hope

2010-11-11T18:52:00.000-05:00

The last couple of weeks have been hard on us medically speaking. I feel like I have lived between the doctor and the chiropractor. And yet I hear God saying be still. Being still in the midst of what is going on between my daughter and I medically. For the past 4 weeks I have been sick up and down and so has she. So I pray and ask for guidance and he tells me to be still and listen that I have a voice. Maybe this was a spiritual fight as well as a medical one.
For a long time I never wanted to accept writing, because I always picked the safe road for my family. Teaching was not the road that God wanted me to choose, or maybe I was not spiritual ready for what he would ask me to do. I am not so sure I am ready but I am writing. Yes I am writing a book, and freelancing articles on the side. I realized surrendering it all doesn't mean just some parts of my life. It means all. I finally surrendered it all. This past weekend His Grace showed me amazing things that I never thought I could have enough courage to do, but I am. It is such a part of me I never realized I was missing something. I got an email from a person today, who said she loves my name. She said it is her daughter's middle name because it reminds her of hope. It blew me away. I never thought of myself as hope-filled, but maybe that is what God has been trying to tell me all along. He just used another angel to explain it to me.
Thank you God for the gifts you have given to me. God Bless you all.

The Mom Clock

2010-11-10T10:32:00.000-05:00

I read this awesome article today on homeschooling kids with special needs.

http://heartofthematteronline.com/setting-the-mom-clock?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+heartofthematteronline%2FYoZh+%28Heart+of+the+Matter%29

Greek History is ending.

2010-11-10T10:25:00.000-05:00

I am so excited to start Roman History next week. I think we overdid the Greek History, but the Percy Jackson and the Lost Hero series was so great. Rick Riordan is one of my favorite writers. It is funny when we started homeschooling years ago, I never thought I could do it. Yet we have and successfully we two special needs learners. I would have thought the amazing places we would visit through our history learning.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians

2010-10-14T19:54:00.000-04:00

After reading the last book, my reaction was WOW! We started this series because we are doing a unit study on Greece. Being a writer myself, this book series was awesome. It is written as Percy is telling the story throughout all five books. The descriptions of Percy's world and his reactions to the world were detailed. Rick Riordan has the world he created highly detailed down to the smallest blade that Annabeth uses. He thoroughly researched before writing these books. Through reading these books, your children will get a great lesson in Greek Mythology. It is an action pack series of books from the Lightning Thief to The Last Olympian. There are five books in this series: The Lightning Thief, The Sea of Monsters, The Titan's Curse, The Battle of the Labyrinth, and The Last Olympian. We were drawn to this series because of the fact that Percy has dyslexia and ADHD, and how the author uses his disability as his greatest ability is truly impressive. All those special needs parents need to get these books for their kids, I highly recommend this series. Everyone of all ages will enjoy this, especially those History geeks like me.

Time for attention

2010-10-06T19:05:00.000-04:00

Wow, this article I just read by Elizabeth Foss, is where my head has been lately, given time alone for each kid. My daughter and I were talking today, about our girls weekend next weekend and what to do. She is so excited. I don't know if it is the age, being 13, or just spending time alone with me. We haven't had it for awhile, so she really excited. This article hit home about spending quality time alone with each child and it is my Mary moment for today.

http://catholicherald.com/opinions/detail.html?sub_id=13989

God Bless you.

Boy Scouts

2010-10-06T10:41:00.000-04:00

My son has always been involved in scouts. As many of you know he has a disability, not so much an academic one, but a medical one. He has SPD(sensory Processing Disorder), an eye tracking problem, probably mild aspberger's. He went through cub scouts and loved it. This past year he went to Boy Scouts. Let me tell you he grew up over the summer. He went to camp because I insisted on it, not because he really wanted to go. He didn't want to go and ended up having the time of his life. He absolutely loved it and is talking abut next summer camp already. I picked him up at the meeting last night, and I was so happy for him. It is a place he fits into, a place he belongs. It has been a long time in finding that. We have had a rough road that we traveled. Homeschooling was the best place for him academically, and boy scouts has been the best place for him socially. It is the place that he loves going to, and is rushing out the door to get too. He has made bonds with these boys that he will always have. He told me last night, Mom I want to become an Eagle Scout and help our parish while doing it. All I can say is what an awesome Boy Scout Troop he is in. I cannot thank enough his leaders and the boys in his Troop. We are truly Blessed to have an awesome Troop at Saint Veronica's Church. I truly believe that wherever God is present people's lives are Blessed. We have been Blessed abundantly because of it. God Bless You all!

The drive home and Star 99.1

2010-09-14T16:03:00.001-04:00

I was driving home today and as always I had 99.1 I wanted share this. I think it was Keith Stevens I was listening to, that replayed a caller from Saturday. This caller said a few years back she got this call from an elderly man. She was a homeowner's agent from what I got. ANyway the elderly man called to tell her that he was sorry he lapsed on his homeoner's insurance he was preoocupied because his son was in the South Tower. She asked if he survived he said yes. He went back in the save this lady, who has trouble getting out. She had 3 children. So they both were saved. The elderly man went on to say he was a WW2 survivor and he was the only one who survived from his battalion and he always wondered why. He said Now I know. I came home to marry my sweetheart to have a son to be in that tower that day to save that woman. The moral is no matter what you are going through God has the bigger picture. We may wonder why, but he has his reasons. God is truly awesome. God Bless you all!

Darryl Worley - Have You Forgotten?

2010-09-11T20:08:00.001-04:00

The Value of Time

2010-08-29T13:04:00.000-04:00

Darryl Worley - Have You Forgotten?

2010-08-23T22:47:00.000-04:00

Hannah Montana Forever - Im Still Good Official Music Video

2010-08-23T21:32:00.000-04:00

Review: The Journey Of Faith

2010-08-23T13:00:00.000-04:00

The Journey Of Faith by Fr.Benedict Groeschel,C.F.R.

I took a long time to read this book, because I wanted to savor everything Fr. Groeschel wrote. I highly respect him as a theologian and priest. This book is a journey to deepen your faith in Christ. This book teaches a lay person such as myself how to have Expectant Faith. He explains how we need faith, hope and love for salvation and the road to The Kingdom of God. As he goes through examples that we can relate too, it deepens your faith through the journey in this book. One thing that astonished me in this book is that, " 94% of people today believe there is a God who knows they exist and who personally cares about their existence". The Media in this country does not portray this statement, which is why I was shocked. Fr. Groeschel went on to talk about the Faith we need to have in our Church, the church that Christ created. Jesus established this church for us, a means for us to be saved. He has a whole chapter explaining practical ways to grow in our faith.He explains only through grace and the act of faith will we be able to sustained our faith. Finally, throughout this book he explains that prayer is the most essential part of our journey with God, that will guide us to have that Expectant Faith in Him. This is the most positive book about our Faith Journey with Christ that I ever read. I would highly recommend this book because it is a great book, not just because I highly respect the priest who wrote it.

http://www.catholiccompany.com/journey-faith-how-to-deepen-your-faith-god-p1033524/?sli=1033524&variation=1

Given book to Review by The Catholic Company:

http://www.catholiccompany.com/

As the School Year Starts

2010-08-22T16:25:00.000-04:00

Year come and go. I remember the year I brought home both of my kids from the hospital. This year one graduates from elementary school and one is entering middle school. What an exciting year it will be? As look back, a tear comes to my eye. This time of the year is sad for many mothers who are sending their kids off to college, school for the first time, or entering a new school. I have always imagined what my kids would be like older when they were little. They have become awesome people. Their walk with God is different than mine but yet they trust in Him fully. Homeschooling has become a great education for them, we have traveled through many countries experiencing the food and culture. I have learned as well as them. My kids have taught me a great many lessons along the way. God sent me on this adventure to learn along with them, and we all have become different people because of it. We all have grown, changed and become closer to Our Blessed Lord than I ever would have sending them to Catholic School. As the school year starts tomorrow, I want to wish you all a Blessed New School Year!

The Circle Game - Joni Mitchell

2010-08-22T13:56:00.000-04:00

Assumption of Mary, the Blessed Mother

2010-08-14T22:28:00.001-04:00

Gluten Free Brownies

2010-08-12T00:42:00.002-04:00

They came out awesome!!! Next time I will add chocolate chips for a more fudgy taste. Thanks to the Gluten free Goddess. She has helped us eat delicious meals gluten free and reduced the sugar in take. Thank you so much!!!

Gluten Free Goddess

Gluten -free

2010-08-11T20:26:00.000-04:00

We went gluten free a couple of months ago, so I am experimenting with a lot of different stuff. Tonight I made Gluten free brownies, they are cooling as I speak, so hopefully, they will taste okay,we will see. I just got copied a graham cracker recipes off the Gluten-free Goddess. I hope by Christmas to be an excellent gluten- free baker. My son has alot of food allergies, gluten intolerance is a recent one. He is being checked for celiac in the fall. God has helped us through this all. He has been walking me through it and helping us find what he can and can't eat.

Learning Consultant Blog

2010-08-06T12:27:00.000-04:00

Yes I am finally do it everyone. I am going to start a business being a Learning Consultant for special needs kids. So look out for the new blog for it. Soon to come.

While I'm Waiting by John Waller {Fireproof music video with lyrics}

2010-07-27T10:42:00.000-04:00

Abiding Faith

2010-07-27T10:26:00.002-04:00

Four years ago, I started this blog, to help me through my Catholic homeschooling journey. Now as I sit and look at the blog what it went from to what it is now it is a journey of Abiding Faith. Having faith in trusting in God and carrying the crosses that come during your journey walk is hard at times. I recently read an article in believing and trusting in God's Will.She said that sometimes trusting in God is praying with despair in your heart. I can relate to that. When you are not walking through the dark valleys in life, you can surely say it--I abide in faith. It is harder when the pits of despair created by a job loss, losing everything you worked so hard to have are about to be taking away from you. Than is when it is harder to pray and have that abiding faith. Right now as we are in that dark valley, I am doing my best to pray with abiding faith. Believe when you are carrying that cross Satan is at your back trying to get you to drop it.
I believe constant prayer does get you through it all. My deep faith has always gotten me through the toughest times in my life. This walk is no different than the rest, but with each cross comes new ardent challenges that sometimes are hard to conquer. That is the time I re-read the footprints poem in my head--God is carrying me through this time. Recently I was driving home from church and heard this song, called I am waiting by John Waller. God knows when we need to hear the messages we need to hear, that is what an awesome and Amazing God we have. Abiding Faith is a journey of having waiting faith, in God's time, in God's will/ God Bless you all!

Praising Him Joyfully,
Noelle

Faith and Courage

2010-07-09T20:40:00.004-04:00

I just finished watching Julia and Julia what an awesome movie. It is funny that sometimes you watch something that you see your self in. Cooking saved Julia, and my writing has saved me. This is movie showed how impossible things can happen even to those of us who doubt through times in our lives. Jesus said nothing is impossible with God. Lately things we have been going through, I have doubted God and myself, but I realized nothing is impossible, even when we think it is. I realized I have lost Faith in everything lately, especially myself. I realized now the things I most wanted to do all my life I stepped away from because it scared me, but God has wanted me the last couple of months to face that fear. He knew I could do it, but I doubted I could. Writing has always been my gift that he gave me. I have written for my family lots of wonderful little stories. With courage He wanted to face writing for a larger audience and that has scared me. Today, I found the pinnacle in my life to save my self, God's loving hand reaching out and I am taking it. It will start with this blog and I will work my way to that book He wants me to write, which will probably changed me and my life. Sometimes adversity and the longer road is the road that teaches us the lesson we need to learn to grow and change. What an amazing revelation into one's life when you look at it through the eyes of God's love.

Happy 13th Birthday Chloe!

2010-07-08T09:59:00.004-04:00

You have become the young women, I knew you would become. I look at you today and I am so proud to call you my daughter. I have watched a young spirited little girl grow up to be a fun-filled young women who is convicted in her beliefs, who is filled with the Holy Spirit and the walk with God. The wonderful and awesome artist you have shown us has, only enhanced your spirit and love of Nature and the ocean. Your kindness for a stranger and friends alike has shown the compassion you have for God's creatures. This year will be probably be one of the most exciting in your life, 8th grade, with graduation and Confirmation upon you. Enjoy all the milestones that come upon you and savor it. I love you!!!

Happy 13th Birthday Chloe!

2010-07-08T09:57:00.000-04:00

Happy 13th Birthday to Chloe!!! we love you!!!

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-20T17:35:00.001-04:00

Happy Father's Day to all those awesome father's out there: Priests, Fathers, Boy Scout Leaders, all those men who are being great role models for our youth today.

Happy Birthday, Greg!!!

2010-06-11T20:44:00.000-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY,GREG!!!!
WE LOVE YOU!!!

End of the year

2010-06-06T22:02:00.002-04:00

Well ending is always bittersweet. We have ended this year for our summer to begin. We do homeschool during the summer but not like during the school year--Math and Reading becomes our focus, with Nature studies and lots of fun trips. this year is especially bittersweet as most of you know we are in a state of limbo, waiting for God to show us our new direction in our lives. Wherever we are God will light the way.
The kids have been homeschooled for 4 years now and have excelled through their learning difficulties. We are going into year 5 in the fall. Chloe is going into the 8th grade and Luke into the 6th grade. They are both growing up so fast. I remember the days I brought them home from the hospital like yesterday.
God has even helped me start a new career, though scary, trusting in Him is essential to allow Him to work through me. So my writing career has begun again after not writing for over 15 years. Alot has changed from the writing world I left those many years ago. So as I start this new chapter in my life, I wish you all a great summer. I will still be blogging and writing during the summer and tomorrow I will be posting my last review of curricula we used this year for the summer. I will be writing about the places we visit and see. We will be on the road this summer. We will be visiting my parents at sometime during the summer, and I will post pictures along with my blogging entries. I wish you all a Blessed Summer to start the fall refreshed and full of energy.

Praising Him Joyfully,
Noelle:)

Review: Meet the composers 2 Kit

2010-05-28T18:26:00.003-04:00

This is a really great way to get Music appreciation in for us. Each composer has an activity sheet, their biography with their renowned compositions, and you listen to their most famous piece on a CD. I recommend this any family that wants to learn more about each composer in different periods of music. Personally, my children loved this program.

Review: Latina Christiana 1

2010-05-27T20:48:00.004-04:00

I absolutely love this Latin Program. This program is from Memoria Press. The repetition, explanation and the way it is laid out reinforces concepts taught. Every 5 chapters there is a review. The pronunciation CD helps the learner excel in the many prayers, hymns, and verb tenses that are taught throughout the book. My children have learned so much through this program. I would recommend this even for a learning disabled child.

Chloe won Honorable Mention!!

2010-05-27T20:41:00.003-04:00

My daughter won Honorable Mention Category 2 in the HSLDA Art Contest.

http://www.hslda.org/Contests/Art/2010/2010winners.asp

Review: Faith and Life : The Life of Grace

2010-05-24T21:53:00.002-04:00

Finishing this book was amazing, I learned things about my faith I never realized. My daughter has a deepen sense of her faith and what Grace is. Through Mary, we get a deeper and closeness to her son, Jesus. Her simple fiat is how Jesus' remarkable life, mission and Passion came to be. God is awesome in his many ways of revelation. In this book you learn about the 7 Sacraments, the Cardinal Virtues, the Doctrine of Grace, Faith Hope, and Charity, Divine Revelation, the 7 gifts of the Holy Spirit and how to live as a Confirmed Person in Christ, and Mary as a Mediatrix of grace.

Review of U Got 2 Love by Fr. Stan Fortuna, C.F.R.

2010-05-13T17:25:00.003-04:00

U Got 2 Love took me by surprise pleasantly. Fr. Stan Fortuna uses everyday language. I was afraid it would be a book over my head in theological language, but it was not. I was surprisingly impressed with this book. He explains what real love is, not the love they show in movies today. He explains how God is true love at its best. He describes it as a "peaceful sea of blazin charity". He links love with obedience and responsibility, how we should cherish it. Love is a free choice that God has given us. The Chapter on Crucified Love was a poignant part of this book for me. Fr. Stan Fortuna explains how we need to embrace the Cross that leads us to God's love and conversion in our lives, which is our acceptance and dependence on God. This is a book about empowering love and realizing they we need love before we can love others. This is an awesome book for young adults as well as adults!

http://www.catholiccompany.com/catholic-books/1033428/U-Got-2-Love?sli=1033428

Given book to Review by The Catholic Company:

http://www.catholiccompany.com/

A Son's love for His Mother

2010-05-11T22:48:00.003-04:00

Love is unlimited between time and space. God's love is immense. A mother's love is forever. This story deeply touched my heart that I got in a newsletter. This is your tissue alert.

BEING A MOTHER

After 21 years of marriage, my wife wanted me to take another woman out to dinner and a movie. She said, 'I love you, but I know this other woman loves you and would love to spend some time with you.'

The other woman that my wife wanted me to visit was my MOTHER, who has been a widow for 19 years, but the demands of my work and my two children had made it possible to visit her only occasionally.

That night I called to invite her to go out for dinner and a movie.

'What's wrong, are you well,' she asked?

My mother is the type of woman who suspects that a late night call or a surprise invitation is a sign of bad news.
'I thought that it would be pleasant to spend some time with you,' I responded. 'Just the two of us.' She thought about it for a moment, and then said, 'I would like that very much.'

That Friday after work, as I drove over to pick her up I was a bit nervous. When I arrived at her house, I noticed that she, too, seemed to be nervous about our date.

She waited in the door with her coat on. She had curled her hair and was wearing the dress that she had worn to celebrate her last wedding anniversary.

She smiled from a face that was as radiant as an angel's. 'I told my friends that I was going to go out with my son, and they were impressed,' she said as she got into the car. 'They can't wait to hear about our meeting.'

We went to a restaurant that, although not elegant, was very nice and cozy. My mother took my arm as if she were the First Lady.

After we sat down, I had to read the menu. Her eyes could only read large print. Half way through the entries, I lifted my eyes and saw Mom sitting there staring at me. A nostalgic smile was on her lips. 'It was I who used to have to read the menu when you were small,' she said.

'Then it's time that you relax and let me return the favor,' I responded.

During the dinner, we had an agreeable conversation, nothing extraordinary but catching up on recent events of each other's life We talked so much that we missed the movie.

As we arrived at her house later, she said, 'I'll go out with you again, but only if you let me invite you.' I agreed.

'How was your dinner date?' asked my wife when I got home.
'Very nice. Much more so than I could have imagined,' I answered.

A few days later, my mother died of a massive heart attack. It happened so suddenly that I didn't have a chance to do anything for her.
Some time later, I received an envelope with a copy of a restaurant receipt from the same place mother and I had dined. An attached note said: 'I paid this bill in advance. I wasn't sure that I could be there; but nevertheless, I paid for two plates - one for you and the other for your wife You will never know what that night meant for me. I love you, son.'

At that moment, I understood the importance of saying in time: 'I LOVE YOU' and to give our loved ones the time that they deserve. Nothing in life is more important than your family. Give them the time they deserve, because these things cannot be put off till 'some other time'.

Mother's Day Giveaway

2010-04-27T19:58:00.001-04:00

Family Centered Press is having a Mother's Day Giveaway:

Family Centered Press

When you thought I wasn't Looking

2010-04-27T14:33:00.001-04:00

WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN'T LOOKING

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you hang my

first painting on the refrigerator, and I immediately

wanted to paint another one.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you feed a

stray cat, and I learned that it was good to be kind

to animals.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you make my

favorite cake for me, and I learned that the little

things can be the special things in life.

When you thought I wasn't looking I heard you say a

prayer, and I knew that there is a God I could always

talk to, and I learned to trust in Him.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you make a

meal and take it to a friend who was sick, and I

learned that we all have to help take care of each other.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you take care

of our house and everyone in it, and I learned we have

to take care of what we are given.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw how you

handled your responsibilities, even when you didn't

feel good, and I learned that I would have to be

responsible when I grow up..

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw tears come

from your eyes, and I learned that sometimes things

hurt, but it's all right to cry.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw that you

cared, and I wanted to be everything that I could be.

When you thought I wasn't looking I learned most of

life's lessons that I need to know to be a good and

productive person when I grow up.

When you thought I wasn't looking I looked at you and

wanted to say, 'Thanks for all the things I saw when

you thought I wasn't looking'

Each of us (parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, teacher, friend)

influences the life of a child.

How will you touch the life of someone today?

.

Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply.

Speak kindly.

Leave the rest to God. Even when he doesnt seem to fix all things,

consider he may be trying to perfect what could be more solid virtue in us by giving us chances to do what only hardship can do: wield perfection as much as possible here on earth.

Review-- Seton Art 7 for Young Catholics

2010-04-27T14:26:00.003-04:00

In this book you go through J.James Tissot's paintings of The Life of Christ, for 35 chapters. The artwork is amazing and the explanation of each stage of Jesus'life in detail. We used it as an Art appreciation study this year. It was awesome as we went through Lent. It kept us truly focused on Lent. I would highly recommend this book to homeschoolers who are focusing on the Trinity during this year.

Review--Faith and Life: Credo I Believe

2010-04-27T14:20:00.002-04:00

This is is such an awesome religion Catechism. I post a review every year on it. It teaches Scripture and religion in depth for children to learn. It is uses the Ignatian method of teaching our Catholic Faith. It has many projects, reports, and resources included in this series. Throughout the this series you learn about scripture in depth through the Trinity--God, the Father, God, the Son, God, The Holy Spirit.

What would Mary do?

2010-04-12T18:44:00.004-04:00

I so agree with Sarah Reinhard's article on this week's newsweek, but I would like to add in my two cents. For those of you know me, I can never keep my mouth quiet(something I am working on). Sometimes I wonder if this is in God's best interests. Father Michael reminded me this through his sermon yesterday on Divine Mercy Sunday. That we as Christians need to stop keeping silent and evangelize among nations. We need to be God's Christian soldiers doing His Will. This was God's Divine plan for his people, to come in the fullness of His Light.

As I read these two articles my first thought is why are they picking on Our Blessed Mother and the Catholic Church. We are not the only church this stuff is happening. Then I am brought to the Divine Cross. Good Friday was not too long ago. The Divine Cross our Savior was mocked, tormented and beaten, made fun of, spit on, for our sins. I realized that we will always be the crux of the Media and Society. We stand for all the values that God wanted us to express to this society that has lost its morals and character.

Both Women and Men are a integral part of the Catholic Church. I don't understand why people today still think women should be priests. It is in the Bible how Jesus wanted His disciples, who were men, to be Blessed with Evangelizing among nations. Our Sacred Tradition is based upon all these values.

The question says What would Mary would do? Our Blessed Mother would pray for everyone. She is a strong women who values prayer. She doesn't say much in scripture. You know through her life she was strong woman because of her prayer. She was able to watch her only Son, who was the Messiah die. We all should listen to her and pray and pray to her Son. Only through praying to Jesus, will the road ahead be light and have no burdens. Her Yes changed the world. Maybe that is why still today people are in awe of her.

God Bless!

Praising Him Joyfully,
Noelle