It's Saint Valentine's Day today. On my way to class early this morning I was reflecting on all the love I have received in the last 22 years. My parents have a beautiful marriage, and my siblings and I are products of their love. God has loved me into being, He has loved me through the rough homeschooling years when I was nothing but a terror for my poor mother, He has loved me when I was broken and alone and was by my side as I navigated the dreadful high school hallways, He loved me as I left home for the first time, He loved me through and despite every mistake, and He made me new again.
Between those 2 examples alone I have had more than enough fruitful and wholesome examples of love to look up to. I am thankful for that. Five years ago I fell in love for the first time. He too has loved me through many hard time, and has been with me as I grew into adulthood. He has seen me at my very best and he has seen me at my very worst, and still he loves me.
Love really is a gift. And, I realized this morning that I am so incredibly blessed by the love I receive from my parents, from God, from Troy, from my sisters and brothers and through my friends. And, I think I was, unknowingly, taking for granted that love. Until this morning.
I thought about the girls in my class (there is something like 38 students, and only 2 men...) on my way to the school this morning. Many have boyfriends, or friends with benefits... many have children and they are all preparing for careers that will require giving a whole lot of love.
But there is something else I have noticed. Many of them are barely 30, and have at least one child (which is beautiful), but of those who have children I would say probably only 2 of them are married. That is sad, but what saddens me even more is that most have them have been married. They are 30 years old (or younger), have a family and divorce papers. It's hard to keep an optimistic view of marriage in our world when this is becoming the norm.
So, what went wrong? It's hard to say, I guess. But, I have discovered that maybe it isn't so hard to pinpoint after all... love has become disposable. We are lending a hand in this divorce epidemic by presenting the view to the world that love isn't something that needs time or work. We cannot sugar-coat relationships or provide advice that consists of the sentence, "Maybe you have just fallen out of love with him." We need to be real, and honest. Love is a choice that is made in every moment of every day. And, love is impossible without God. Yes, impossible. I am not saying it's harder without God, or different without God. It is truly impossible without God IS love...without Him love cannot exist in our world. Not only is God the maker, creator and giver or love, but He is also the perfect example of love. He never gives up on us...and we are as imperfect as imperfect can get. We need to seek after His wisdom and example and enter every relationship in life with the understanding that romance is not present every moment of life, and we may have a crappy day or our friend, spouse, parent or sibling may treat us terribly sometimes (guarantee you treat them like crap sometimes too!) or you just may not feel in love. But love is more than a feeling...it's a choice and the result of it is more beautiful and miraculous than you could ever imagine.
Make sure people in your life know you love them today... even if you don't feel like it.
St. Valentine, please pray for us.
Emily xo
Showing posts with label Life. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Life. Show all posts
Friday, February 14, 2014
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Love Conquers All
When I was on NET (see the NET Ministries tab at the top if you aren't familiar with NET) there was a huge emphasis, not only on youth ministry, but also on team life. Since I was living in close quarters with my five team members, and seeing them literally every day all day it was crucial I learn what being a member of a team really is.
I mean, I have been parts of groups and organizations before, but nothing compared to this. We would always joke that it's like marriage preparation. During our training for NET there was also training specifically on how to love our team members, even when we hated them. It's a funny statement, I know. But, how do we do that? How do we love someone who is so completely different than us and with who we are constantly butting heads?
It is hard.
Loving like Jesus loves, seeing Jesus in those around us and loving Him in that other person, praying for grace to love even when it's hard, and making everything you do about sacrifice is the only way one can do this. Every morning I prayed for my team. I prayed for their needs, for their desires, for the burdens on their hearts. I prayed that I would know how to love them that day, and that my love would help heal their broken pieces. I prayed that God would have mercy on my brokenness every day. I begged Him to teach me, every day, how to love like He loves. I asked for the grace to see His face in the face of my team mates, even at the heart of a heated disagreement. And, I made my life about sacrifice. I learned how to give up myself to serve my teammates. Jesus opened my heart to see that the ultimate sacrifice was His death on the cross for my sins, and that my entire life needed to be a series of sacrifices, small in comparison to the cross, that would ultimately lead me and those I encounter to the foot of His cross, with open arms and an open heart.
We referred to the girls on the team as the "sisterhood" and the boys as the "brotherhood". Not only did I try to constantly serve my sisters and brothers on my team individually, but we also tried to serve as a 'hood. The girls would get together and plan something to honour, thank and life up our brothers. We wrote them songs, cooked for the, brought them coffees, and had nerf gun wars with them. We also made sure they could have time together, as brothers, to bond. And, our brothers did the same for us. They made us gifts, brought us roses, wrote us notes, thanked us for our love and opened doors. It didn't matter if it was big or small things, but we made a point of serving one another.
So what did this do? Not only did my relationship with each of my team members become strengthened, but they also lead and challenged my to get closer to Jesus, and have a new zeal for faith. We now live in all corners of the country and are doing many different things...one is in the seminary, one is in school, one is working for NET...we are all separated by miles and time. However, the relationship I have with each of them is deeper than any friendship I have ever had in my life. I know, without a doubt, that they pray for me. I know the moment I need them they will be here-in person or in prayer. I know I can confide in them and seek wisdom from them. I know they will love me, despite any difference we have or argument we encounter. I know that because of how our relationships were formed on NET that we are as close as family.
I believe having a common faith is the greatest gift in any relationship-be it dating of friendship. It allows a whole new depth, dimension and meaning to the relationship. It eases any doubt that you will be abandoned by them, or that you will get hurt. You know that any rift or separation that forms in your relationship can be bridged because, at the end of the day, you both come back to the same values, to the same God.
That is the greatest gift.
So I challenge you, with your spouse or boyfriend, best friend and worst enemy...serve them. Do little, extraordinary things. Make sure they know you love them, and that you are leading them to the cross. Make sure they know you're always calling them to greater, more beautiful things. And, above all, pray for them. Love them even when they hate you, and especially when you hate them. Love them passionately, deeply, perfectly and beautiful. Love them with the grace of God because Jesus is in them.
To my beautiful team...I adore you, thank you for all you've taught me. I am praying for you, always.
Emily xo
I mean, I have been parts of groups and organizations before, but nothing compared to this. We would always joke that it's like marriage preparation. During our training for NET there was also training specifically on how to love our team members, even when we hated them. It's a funny statement, I know. But, how do we do that? How do we love someone who is so completely different than us and with who we are constantly butting heads?
It is hard.
We referred to the girls on the team as the "sisterhood" and the boys as the "brotherhood". Not only did I try to constantly serve my sisters and brothers on my team individually, but we also tried to serve as a 'hood. The girls would get together and plan something to honour, thank and life up our brothers. We wrote them songs, cooked for the, brought them coffees, and had nerf gun wars with them. We also made sure they could have time together, as brothers, to bond. And, our brothers did the same for us. They made us gifts, brought us roses, wrote us notes, thanked us for our love and opened doors. It didn't matter if it was big or small things, but we made a point of serving one another.
I believe having a common faith is the greatest gift in any relationship-be it dating of friendship. It allows a whole new depth, dimension and meaning to the relationship. It eases any doubt that you will be abandoned by them, or that you will get hurt. You know that any rift or separation that forms in your relationship can be bridged because, at the end of the day, you both come back to the same values, to the same God.
That is the greatest gift.
So I challenge you, with your spouse or boyfriend, best friend and worst enemy...serve them. Do little, extraordinary things. Make sure they know you love them, and that you are leading them to the cross. Make sure they know you're always calling them to greater, more beautiful things. And, above all, pray for them. Love them even when they hate you, and especially when you hate them. Love them passionately, deeply, perfectly and beautiful. Love them with the grace of God because Jesus is in them.
To my beautiful team...I adore you, thank you for all you've taught me. I am praying for you, always.
Emily xo
Sunday, September 1, 2013
The Flowers & the Bees
Today I wanted to just do a quick post to include this photo I took a few weeks back. I love sunflowers! They are second only to daisies, in my books. I was taking pictures of the ones at Troy's grandparent's home & I noticed this little fella!
I think it's so lovely to see God's creation in action. Hold onto these moments of summer & enjoy the blooming flowers in their last days...well, until next year anyway! It's a nice little reminder that when life is a mess, there truly is a message of love & life in the midst of it all.
I think it's so lovely to see God's creation in action. Hold onto these moments of summer & enjoy the blooming flowers in their last days...well, until next year anyway! It's a nice little reminder that when life is a mess, there truly is a message of love & life in the midst of it all.
Emily xo
Monday, August 26, 2013
Catholic Canadian? Can I be Both?
I am a Canadian, and a Roman Catholic. I take pride in both of these facts, but have discovered that one, by far, outweighs the other when it comes to how I live my life & how I define myself. Sometimes I cannot be both a Canadian AND a Catholic.
What does it mean to be a Canadian Citizen?
According to the Canadian Government it means to have these values;
Equality, Respect for Cultural Differences, Freedom, Peace, Law & Order.
Does that not make this nation sound like some sort of Utopia? Yes, of course it does. That is why we are so multicultural (Google "what does it mean to be a Canadian"- you will find tons of articles headlining that we are multicultural).
Equality sounds lovely, doesn't it? In the Government article linked above it describes equality in this way;
We respect everyone's rights. Everyone has the right to speak out and express ideas that others might disagree with. Governments must treat everyone with equal dignity and respect- two other fundamental Canadian values.
Perfect? Well, maybe not. Here is the thing-everyone is not equal. They should be, but they are not. This nation has taken equality to mean that every person should have the rights to live as the wish, not as they should. And, as a Roman Catholic, I often disagree with how they go about this.
For example- I believe that homosexuality is spiritually immoral. I believe it to be sinful, detrimental to society, a mental illness/imbalance. I believe homosexuality is wrong. Always.
Now, I believe people who are homosexual deserve to be treated with the same dignity and respect as every other person on the planet, but I also believe that they are living lives of hardship, sin (if they are practicing their homosexuality), and lives that can, ultimately, destroy their souls.
I know it is my responsibility, as a Catholic, striving for Heaven, to help, guide, and encourage them on paths that will get them to Heaven (God willing). This means I still speak kind words, I still open doors for them. It means I visit with them and befriend them. It means I live my life in a way that exemplifies the teachings of the Catholic Church, in every aspect of my life. It means that I may never have to use words to tell them that the cross they've been given in life, like all our crosses, can lead them far from the gates of Heaven. It means my very life will, hopefully, be ministry enough to bring them home to our God.
As a Canadian, I am expected to smile & say, "good for them!" as Pride Parades sweep our nation every summer. It means I am not permitted to be uncomfortable by public displays of affection, involving two people of the same gender (even if I would be repulsed by the same display between a man & a woman). It means I cannot say that I believe homosexuality is a temptation, a cross, or a sin.
As a Canadian, I am expected to take the meaning of "equality" as everyone is the same, and others may live their lives as the wish- be it as homosexuals, pro-abortionist, those engaging in pre/post-marital sex...the list goes on.
As a Catholic, I believe everyone person is given crosses to bear in life. We struggle with different temptations for sin, and battle interior battles often. Homosexuality is one of those crosses. It is a temptation. I acknowledge that. I am always amazed when I hear stories of men & women who struggle with homosexuality, and are able to choose lives of chastity and purity. What a challenge that must be! See, homosexuals are called to lives of purity & chastity, the same as every other single person, dating, engaged and married couple are (here for more information). To not live in that way is a sin. No ifs, ands or buts.
As a Catholic I know that equality means treating everyone as my brother & sister, and loving them, despite their imperfections. I know it means encouraging & helping others out of their temptations for sin & into lives of fulfillment and faith. It means leaning on my brothers & sisters in Christ when I am weak & struggling with my own crosses.It does not mean applauding behavior that is morally detrimental, but rather calling people out of that and into lives where they can be truly happy.
As a traditionally Christian nation, I understand what the Canadian government is striving for. They have taken good, solid Christian values into account when building up this country but they are misinformed on how to properly execute their implementation into our Provinces and Territories. We have taken everything to an extreme to avoid stepping on anyone's toes or insulting anyone. Those are good intentions. However, they have forgotten to take into account that maybe not all behaviors, ways of life, procedures and ideas are appropriate, life-giving, fulfilling and good. Every good society needs restrictions, guide lines and rules. We are imperfect humans, all of us, and we cannot live without rules of some kind. So, where does this "to each his own" mentality draw it's line? It seems very blurry to me...
-Emily xo
What does it mean to be a Canadian Citizen?
According to the Canadian Government it means to have these values;
Equality, Respect for Cultural Differences, Freedom, Peace, Law & Order.
Does that not make this nation sound like some sort of Utopia? Yes, of course it does. That is why we are so multicultural (Google "what does it mean to be a Canadian"- you will find tons of articles headlining that we are multicultural).
Equality sounds lovely, doesn't it? In the Government article linked above it describes equality in this way;
We respect everyone's rights. Everyone has the right to speak out and express ideas that others might disagree with. Governments must treat everyone with equal dignity and respect- two other fundamental Canadian values.
Perfect? Well, maybe not. Here is the thing-everyone is not equal. They should be, but they are not. This nation has taken equality to mean that every person should have the rights to live as the wish, not as they should. And, as a Roman Catholic, I often disagree with how they go about this.
For example- I believe that homosexuality is spiritually immoral. I believe it to be sinful, detrimental to society, a mental illness/imbalance. I believe homosexuality is wrong. Always.
Now, I believe people who are homosexual deserve to be treated with the same dignity and respect as every other person on the planet, but I also believe that they are living lives of hardship, sin (if they are practicing their homosexuality), and lives that can, ultimately, destroy their souls.
I know it is my responsibility, as a Catholic, striving for Heaven, to help, guide, and encourage them on paths that will get them to Heaven (God willing). This means I still speak kind words, I still open doors for them. It means I visit with them and befriend them. It means I live my life in a way that exemplifies the teachings of the Catholic Church, in every aspect of my life. It means that I may never have to use words to tell them that the cross they've been given in life, like all our crosses, can lead them far from the gates of Heaven. It means my very life will, hopefully, be ministry enough to bring them home to our God.
As a Canadian, I am expected to smile & say, "good for them!" as Pride Parades sweep our nation every summer. It means I am not permitted to be uncomfortable by public displays of affection, involving two people of the same gender (even if I would be repulsed by the same display between a man & a woman). It means I cannot say that I believe homosexuality is a temptation, a cross, or a sin.
As a Canadian, I am expected to take the meaning of "equality" as everyone is the same, and others may live their lives as the wish- be it as homosexuals, pro-abortionist, those engaging in pre/post-marital sex...the list goes on.
As a Catholic, I believe everyone person is given crosses to bear in life. We struggle with different temptations for sin, and battle interior battles often. Homosexuality is one of those crosses. It is a temptation. I acknowledge that. I am always amazed when I hear stories of men & women who struggle with homosexuality, and are able to choose lives of chastity and purity. What a challenge that must be! See, homosexuals are called to lives of purity & chastity, the same as every other single person, dating, engaged and married couple are (here for more information). To not live in that way is a sin. No ifs, ands or buts.
As a Catholic I know that equality means treating everyone as my brother & sister, and loving them, despite their imperfections. I know it means encouraging & helping others out of their temptations for sin & into lives of fulfillment and faith. It means leaning on my brothers & sisters in Christ when I am weak & struggling with my own crosses.It does not mean applauding behavior that is morally detrimental, but rather calling people out of that and into lives where they can be truly happy.
As a traditionally Christian nation, I understand what the Canadian government is striving for. They have taken good, solid Christian values into account when building up this country but they are misinformed on how to properly execute their implementation into our Provinces and Territories. We have taken everything to an extreme to avoid stepping on anyone's toes or insulting anyone. Those are good intentions. However, they have forgotten to take into account that maybe not all behaviors, ways of life, procedures and ideas are appropriate, life-giving, fulfilling and good. Every good society needs restrictions, guide lines and rules. We are imperfect humans, all of us, and we cannot live without rules of some kind. So, where does this "to each his own" mentality draw it's line? It seems very blurry to me...
-Emily xo
Thursday, August 22, 2013
A Legacy of Faith
On Saturday August 10th my Aunt & Uncle welcomed their first little baby into the world. It was an exciting day for my family, and we cannot wait to meet sweet, little Maria.
She is being baptized at their Parish, about 2 hours from here, on Sunday afternoon. We are anxiously awaiting the day she will be welcomed into the loving home of the Catholic Church, and they day we will all get to lay eyes on her for the first time.
I wanted to take a moment, not only to welcome little Maria into the world, and into the Catholic Church (on Sunday), but to touch on the beautiful gift of new life...and large families. I wrote 2 articles, here & here, back in June about the gift of large families, and the criticism they often face. Today, I want to explain to you about my family.
Both of my parents are one of eight children. My Mom is one of the older ones in her family, and my Dad one of the younger in his. Mom's family is with whom I spent/spend most of my time. I am close with them in proximity (for the most part) and in relationship.
My grandparent, Mom's parents, have one of the most beautiful relationships I have ever seen. When I was in high school we had a fire at our home, and my entire family stayed at my grandparent's house for a few weeks before Christmas. It was then, when I was living under their roof, that I truly got to see their relationship in action. They are so genuinely kind to one another, all the time. But, more then that, they have a faith that has withstood many, many trials and temptations. They still pray together, every single day. That is what has made their relationship so incredibly strong, and what created the pillar that their wonderful family is built on.
This November my grandparents will be married for 50 years...in that time the have purchased and built up an extremely successful family dairy farm. They have raised a house full of wonderful, solid children who love and respect them. They have experienced death, and the lose of close family. They walked their daughters down the aisle, one at a time. They watched as their sons found beautiful wives, and promised to love them forever. The saw their family "go forth and multiple" {Gen.9:7} as their first grandchild (me) was born 21 years ago. They have experienced sorrow as they tore down the house they raised their family in, for safety reasons. They have watched in vain as the farm they worked so hard to create, was reduced to a flaming pile of rubble. They began from scratch, rebuilding a farm and a legacy of hard work & dedication. They stood by and supported their children as difficult decisions were made. They stood by at endless baptisms, First Communions, Confirmations, graduations and sporting events, as they watched their children, and then grandchildren grow. And, this September they will welcome their 33 grand child into the world.
In 50 years they have supported, raised, loved, forgave, taught, nursed, cared for, and prayed for, not only one another, but for 8 children, 8 children-in-law, & 33 grandchildren. God willing, they will still be here to see their great grandchildren as well. I would love for my children to one day have the honour of knowing them.
I think my grandparents are too humble to know the legacy they are leaving behind on this Earth. Because of them, their love, generosity, kindness & faith will long outlive them.
Thank you, Nanna & Poppa, for this wonderful gift. I love you!
Emily xo
She is being baptized at their Parish, about 2 hours from here, on Sunday afternoon. We are anxiously awaiting the day she will be welcomed into the loving home of the Catholic Church, and they day we will all get to lay eyes on her for the first time.
I wanted to take a moment, not only to welcome little Maria into the world, and into the Catholic Church (on Sunday), but to touch on the beautiful gift of new life...and large families. I wrote 2 articles, here & here, back in June about the gift of large families, and the criticism they often face. Today, I want to explain to you about my family.
Both of my parents are one of eight children. My Mom is one of the older ones in her family, and my Dad one of the younger in his. Mom's family is with whom I spent/spend most of my time. I am close with them in proximity (for the most part) and in relationship.
My grandparent, Mom's parents, have one of the most beautiful relationships I have ever seen. When I was in high school we had a fire at our home, and my entire family stayed at my grandparent's house for a few weeks before Christmas. It was then, when I was living under their roof, that I truly got to see their relationship in action. They are so genuinely kind to one another, all the time. But, more then that, they have a faith that has withstood many, many trials and temptations. They still pray together, every single day. That is what has made their relationship so incredibly strong, and what created the pillar that their wonderful family is built on.
This November my grandparents will be married for 50 years...in that time the have purchased and built up an extremely successful family dairy farm. They have raised a house full of wonderful, solid children who love and respect them. They have experienced death, and the lose of close family. They walked their daughters down the aisle, one at a time. They watched as their sons found beautiful wives, and promised to love them forever. The saw their family "go forth and multiple" {Gen.9:7} as their first grandchild (me) was born 21 years ago. They have experienced sorrow as they tore down the house they raised their family in, for safety reasons. They have watched in vain as the farm they worked so hard to create, was reduced to a flaming pile of rubble. They began from scratch, rebuilding a farm and a legacy of hard work & dedication. They stood by and supported their children as difficult decisions were made. They stood by at endless baptisms, First Communions, Confirmations, graduations and sporting events, as they watched their children, and then grandchildren grow. And, this September they will welcome their 33 grand child into the world.
In 50 years they have supported, raised, loved, forgave, taught, nursed, cared for, and prayed for, not only one another, but for 8 children, 8 children-in-law, & 33 grandchildren. God willing, they will still be here to see their great grandchildren as well. I would love for my children to one day have the honour of knowing them.
I think my grandparents are too humble to know the legacy they are leaving behind on this Earth. Because of them, their love, generosity, kindness & faith will long outlive them.
Thank you, Nanna & Poppa, for this wonderful gift. I love you!
Emily xo
Friday, August 16, 2013
As You Walk
Just a quick thought for your Friday:
Your path to Heaven has been paved with rough wooden beams of heavy wood; large, rusty nails that tear flesh; the anger of a world hurting from lack of truth; a sharp, piercing ring of thorns; a treacherous, uphill climb, flanked by people waiting for you to fail.
It has been paved by a long, winding, dangerous journey with people crying for your pain, and praying constant prayers for you, and it has been brightened by the light of the promise of a beautiful, indescribable, glorious eternity by the one who walked it first... a gentleman who adored you enough to die for you. Some two million years ago.
May God be with you on your journey...whatever form it takes. No one said it would be easy...in fact, He showed us how far from easy it would be.
Emily xo
Thursday, August 8, 2013
The People You Will Meet
Wishing you a blessed & beautiful Thursday. My prayers are with you.
Emily xo
Friday, August 2, 2013
Loving You
I came across this image today that says, "Loving you was my favourite mistake." Something about it kind of struck a cord. I am no expert with matters of the heart, and in fact, Troy's the only person I've ever dated.
But, does this not apply in other aspects of life? Including friendships? I have had friendships that have ended abruptly, and far from smoothly. Without naming names, I will mention one girl who I was best friends with throughout most of high school.
She was my very best friend. I loved her. We were as different as could be, but went together so well. I lover her like a sister. And, the rough ending to that friendship is still a scar on my heart that is painful.
But was loving her, and being her best friends wasn't a mistake, I don't think.
Did it hurt when things ended badly? Of course. But do I regret being her friend? Not for even a second. Maybe is was a mistake, or may it wasn't. Either way, loving her, & being her friend was a good one.
Emily xo
Saturday, June 15, 2013
Large Family Don't Care-Part 2
As promised, here is part two.
This post will focus on the benefits of a large family, and why they are important, not only to the members of the family, but to society as a whole.
1. Being part of a large family never allows for boredom. There is always something to be done. And, if you do have a moment of down time then there are things you truly want to do...like read a good book, watch a show, write a letter, surf the internet. And, you really enjoy whatever you are doing during that downtime.
2. I am never lonely. There is always someone to talk to or hang out with. And, on the very rare occasion there isn't then you embrace the peacefulness of the moment!
3. Someone always has your back. Just last week my sister told me that our brother stood up to a young man that said some very rude things to her. He has her back. It's like having built in body guards.
4. Outfit opportunities are endless. Boys may not appreciate this, but girls sure do! When you have sisters who are close to your size you can share clothes and shoes and it's great!
5. You have a built in, brutally honest opinion panel. Siblings don't tend to sugar coat things. If you want to know how an outfits looks and get a 100% honest answer, ask the 10 year old boy.
6. It is fabulous relationship discernment. When I began dating my boyfriend I wanted someone who would not only love me, but my family. Someone who understood dating with purpose (meaning, discernment of marriage) and who was good with children. A man who was faithful and not afraid to pray. Having a large family allowed for me to see how wonderful he is with children, and how he was not afraid to pray the rosary with my family after dinner when he was over.
7. Large families help you learn about life. Having the 'talk' isn't nearly as bad when you can look around and see the product of it (meaning children). It helps you be better able to embrace the fact that sex is a beautiful thing and nothing to be ashamed of. And, it helps you understand why it belongs only within a marriage.
Bonding and babies people! Bonding and Babies!
8. You have built in friends who cannot abandon you, even if they want to! Muhahahha! Seriously though, I remember going through losing friends and growing apart from friends. It is hard and it stinks. But, knowing I had my sisters at home who would never do that to me was a huge source of comfort.
9. You learn and understand about the opposite sex. Having brothers is fantastic. Because, I am able to understand how their minds work, how to best relate to them, and what they enjoy. This is something I can apply in every aspect of my life when I encounter males in the workplace, school, etc.
10. I never have to question love. I know what love is because I see it active and alive in my parents and siblings. I know what a marriage is supposed to look like, and I know how to love those around me, even when I hate them.
This is the greatest gift.
Go have yourself some big families!!
-Emily xox
This post will focus on the benefits of a large family, and why they are important, not only to the members of the family, but to society as a whole.
1. Being part of a large family never allows for boredom. There is always something to be done. And, if you do have a moment of down time then there are things you truly want to do...like read a good book, watch a show, write a letter, surf the internet. And, you really enjoy whatever you are doing during that downtime.
2. I am never lonely. There is always someone to talk to or hang out with. And, on the very rare occasion there isn't then you embrace the peacefulness of the moment!
3. Someone always has your back. Just last week my sister told me that our brother stood up to a young man that said some very rude things to her. He has her back. It's like having built in body guards.
4. Outfit opportunities are endless. Boys may not appreciate this, but girls sure do! When you have sisters who are close to your size you can share clothes and shoes and it's great!
5. You have a built in, brutally honest opinion panel. Siblings don't tend to sugar coat things. If you want to know how an outfits looks and get a 100% honest answer, ask the 10 year old boy.
6. It is fabulous relationship discernment. When I began dating my boyfriend I wanted someone who would not only love me, but my family. Someone who understood dating with purpose (meaning, discernment of marriage) and who was good with children. A man who was faithful and not afraid to pray. Having a large family allowed for me to see how wonderful he is with children, and how he was not afraid to pray the rosary with my family after dinner when he was over.
7. Large families help you learn about life. Having the 'talk' isn't nearly as bad when you can look around and see the product of it (meaning children). It helps you be better able to embrace the fact that sex is a beautiful thing and nothing to be ashamed of. And, it helps you understand why it belongs only within a marriage.
Bonding and babies people! Bonding and Babies!
8. You have built in friends who cannot abandon you, even if they want to! Muhahahha! Seriously though, I remember going through losing friends and growing apart from friends. It is hard and it stinks. But, knowing I had my sisters at home who would never do that to me was a huge source of comfort.
9. You learn and understand about the opposite sex. Having brothers is fantastic. Because, I am able to understand how their minds work, how to best relate to them, and what they enjoy. This is something I can apply in every aspect of my life when I encounter males in the workplace, school, etc.
10. I never have to question love. I know what love is because I see it active and alive in my parents and siblings. I know what a marriage is supposed to look like, and I know how to love those around me, even when I hate them.
This is the greatest gift.
Go have yourself some big families!!
-Emily xox
Friday, May 31, 2013
A History of the Walls
A few weeks ago a house burnt down. It was late at night and my sister woke me to show me the orange flames that lit up the black sky. Panic is my first instinct. But, we soon learned it was an abandoned house, and the entire thing burnt to the ground that night.
I am thankful the house was abandoned and that no one lost their home that night, and that no one was hurt. But, it was kind of sad at the same time. Because, at one point that was someone's home.
I love old things...I know this sounds silly, but I do. I love elderly people and find them fascinating to speak to. I love to listen to their stories, even when their memory fails them. I love how the look at me with eyes that have been clouded with passing time. I love how the call me dear and hold my hand while I talk to them. I love the wrinkles that are on their face and on their hands because it means they have lived a life that may have not been easy, but was worth it.
I love antique things. I love the history that is told in every scratch and scrape along a tabletop. I love the imperfections in the make of an old chair that means it was made at home, with hours of labour. I love the way antique stores smell and the people who own them. I love that if the furniture could speak they could tell me stories of babies being born, or children with a hurt knee and the Momma who kissed it better. They could tell me of the smell of the kitchen while bread was baking and about the hands of the farmer who guided the plough.
I love old houses. We have a lot of these where I live. Big, old farm houses that are stunning. I love how these houses were made to withstand the tests of time. I love how the floors are crooked, and the stairs are steep. I love how the windows make the world look like you are looking through a fun house mirror, and how the pains rattle when there is a storm. And, I love the stories the walls could tell if they could speak.
Imagine...
Think of all the memories you have with your own family. Imagine what the walls could tell you about everything they have seen in the last 200 years, and of the families who were raised there. They could tell you about the people who walked through the doorway and about the laughter that filled the home. The could tell you about the support the offered when men and woman leaned against them as they gave way to sorrowful tears. They could tell me about babies that were rocked to sleep and that grew up into handsome young men. They could tell me about young ladies dressing in an upstairs bedroom in a beautiful wedding gown. And about how all the crops died one year, and there wasn't enough food on the table. They could tell me stories of love, sorrow and joy; of family, friendship and romance; of laughter, tears and hiccups. Wouldn't that be neat??
I love the memories, stories and history that is held within an elderly person or an old home. It is a beautiful legacy of life and death and one that should be treasured.
-Emily xo
I am thankful the house was abandoned and that no one lost their home that night, and that no one was hurt. But, it was kind of sad at the same time. Because, at one point that was someone's home.
I love old things...I know this sounds silly, but I do. I love elderly people and find them fascinating to speak to. I love to listen to their stories, even when their memory fails them. I love how the look at me with eyes that have been clouded with passing time. I love how the call me dear and hold my hand while I talk to them. I love the wrinkles that are on their face and on their hands because it means they have lived a life that may have not been easy, but was worth it.
I love antique things. I love the history that is told in every scratch and scrape along a tabletop. I love the imperfections in the make of an old chair that means it was made at home, with hours of labour. I love the way antique stores smell and the people who own them. I love that if the furniture could speak they could tell me stories of babies being born, or children with a hurt knee and the Momma who kissed it better. They could tell me of the smell of the kitchen while bread was baking and about the hands of the farmer who guided the plough.
I love old houses. We have a lot of these where I live. Big, old farm houses that are stunning. I love how these houses were made to withstand the tests of time. I love how the floors are crooked, and the stairs are steep. I love how the windows make the world look like you are looking through a fun house mirror, and how the pains rattle when there is a storm. And, I love the stories the walls could tell if they could speak.
Imagine...
Think of all the memories you have with your own family. Imagine what the walls could tell you about everything they have seen in the last 200 years, and of the families who were raised there. They could tell you about the people who walked through the doorway and about the laughter that filled the home. The could tell you about the support the offered when men and woman leaned against them as they gave way to sorrowful tears. They could tell me about babies that were rocked to sleep and that grew up into handsome young men. They could tell me about young ladies dressing in an upstairs bedroom in a beautiful wedding gown. And about how all the crops died one year, and there wasn't enough food on the table. They could tell me stories of love, sorrow and joy; of family, friendship and romance; of laughter, tears and hiccups. Wouldn't that be neat??
I love the memories, stories and history that is held within an elderly person or an old home. It is a beautiful legacy of life and death and one that should be treasured.
-Emily xo
Friday, May 17, 2013
A Message in the Mess?
Last night, on my drive home, I was listening to a local Christian radio station. There was a speaker on there (who's name I do not know) talking to the host about Motherhood, and just womanhood in general. She spoke of some profound things that I thought were worth discussing.
The point of what she was discussing was basically that, as women, we are constantly comparing ourselves. She was speaking of motherhood, in particular, but it is something true of most every woman. One thing that really stuck out to me is when she said that, as a young mother, comparing herself was something she was having a very difficult time with and a friend said to her,
'Don't compare your insides to someone else's outsides.'
How true is that? I am not a mother, but I am a woman, and I try so hard not to compare myself to others, yet I always seem to be. I am not the type of person who likes to share my 'insides'. I hate people knowing that there may be even the slightest imperfection in my relationships, in my family, in my life in general. I am always putting on a face to cover my own messes. And, I know I am not the only woman to do this. So, if all the woman I am comparing my broken insides to are doing the same thing I do, then what an unfair comparison! I mean, I know, in my heart, that people's lives are never perfect, and there are always things going on behind closed doors, but in that moment of comparison that doesn't seem to matter, or hold a candle to their seemingly perfect outside.
This woman also was speaking of her own experiences of sharing the brokenness in her life with those around her. Just the thought of being so brutally honest, even with my closest friends, terrifies me. However, she made a very good point.
If we, as Christians. put on this fake perfect life we scare people away. We may think that we are showing non-Christians what a beautiful life God gives us for following Him, but we are in fact doing the opposite. We intimidate people by this 'perfect' life, and they feel inadequate next to us because all they are able to see is their own failure and brokenness.
Is this making sense?
Anyway, by sharing our imperfection (& I am not saying you have to share specifics, but just the overall struggles) we encourage people to see us as their peers and not as holier-then-thou. We encourage people to come forward, share their own brokenness and open their hearts. When someone opens their heart, that is where God does his best work. So, we need to allow God to use us and our imperfection and brokenness as an instrument to reach those around us. And, most importantly, reach them in the midst of their brokenness, not in their perfection.
So, we need to find the message within our own mess, and allow others to see our mess and see the message. Don't be afraid of letting things get a little messy...it is in those moments where we grow the most.
Here's to sharing our messes,
Emily xo
The point of what she was discussing was basically that, as women, we are constantly comparing ourselves. She was speaking of motherhood, in particular, but it is something true of most every woman. One thing that really stuck out to me is when she said that, as a young mother, comparing herself was something she was having a very difficult time with and a friend said to her,
'Don't compare your insides to someone else's outsides.'
How true is that? I am not a mother, but I am a woman, and I try so hard not to compare myself to others, yet I always seem to be. I am not the type of person who likes to share my 'insides'. I hate people knowing that there may be even the slightest imperfection in my relationships, in my family, in my life in general. I am always putting on a face to cover my own messes. And, I know I am not the only woman to do this. So, if all the woman I am comparing my broken insides to are doing the same thing I do, then what an unfair comparison! I mean, I know, in my heart, that people's lives are never perfect, and there are always things going on behind closed doors, but in that moment of comparison that doesn't seem to matter, or hold a candle to their seemingly perfect outside.
This woman also was speaking of her own experiences of sharing the brokenness in her life with those around her. Just the thought of being so brutally honest, even with my closest friends, terrifies me. However, she made a very good point.
If we, as Christians. put on this fake perfect life we scare people away. We may think that we are showing non-Christians what a beautiful life God gives us for following Him, but we are in fact doing the opposite. We intimidate people by this 'perfect' life, and they feel inadequate next to us because all they are able to see is their own failure and brokenness.
Is this making sense?
Anyway, by sharing our imperfection (& I am not saying you have to share specifics, but just the overall struggles) we encourage people to see us as their peers and not as holier-then-thou. We encourage people to come forward, share their own brokenness and open their hearts. When someone opens their heart, that is where God does his best work. So, we need to allow God to use us and our imperfection and brokenness as an instrument to reach those around us. And, most importantly, reach them in the midst of their brokenness, not in their perfection.
So, we need to find the message within our own mess, and allow others to see our mess and see the message. Don't be afraid of letting things get a little messy...it is in those moments where we grow the most.
Here's to sharing our messes,
Emily xo
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Is Love Enough?
I have always found it a mystery how the English language has only one word for love. It seems like one word is just not sufficient enough to express the true feeling of love. You can 'love' a lot of things. You can love the way it smells after it's rained, or the taste of ice cream. You can love the look of trees budding in the springtime. You can love the way you feel when you walk barefoot across a grassy field. You can love the thrill of being kissed deeply and passionately for the first time, or the feeling you have when you hold someone's hand. You can love holding a little baby in your arms for the first time, and how warm they feel, cuddled next to your heart. You love your boyfriend or girlfriend or fiancée or spouse. You love your children more each passing day. You can love being in love. And, we love God.
And, there is one, single word to describe all of those different feelings. If you have ever fallen in love with someone, then you know that that feeling is entirely one of it's own, and is in no way close to the feeling of eating your favourite food, or the feeling you have about your dearest friend. I have never been a mother, but I know if you ask one they will tell you that the love they feel for their children is yet again totally of it's own, and very unlike the feelings of love they have for their spouse. If you ask any Christian, they will tell you they love God above all, but they use the same word to describe their feeling toward the Almighty God as to tell you about their favourite dessert. Love.
I was thinking about this the other day, and pondering how seemingly unfair it is that our vocabulary is so restricted in this way. I also thought that, if our language provided only one word to express all these feelings, then is it wrong to use it so freely? I mean, people always say, "hate is a strong word.", but is love not even stronger? So, shouldn't we be more careful about how we use the word love, then how we use the word hate? The more I thought about it though, I realized something else. Maybe it isn't all that unfair after all. Maybe it is just right.
Here's what I have concluded... We do not need hundreds of words to describe the hundreds of different feelings we have towards many, many things. God is love. If that is true (which I believe it is), then we cannot have love without God. That means that everything we 'love' is a reflection of the love that God is. We need to love everything then, right?
Really though, our lives are meant to reflect and shine the love of God, and the best, most successful way of doing that is by loving. Think of the most truly joyful person you know. Chances are they love everything. Literally.That is because they have the beautiful ability to see God in absolutely everything. They may not even know that that is what they are doing, but the love of Christ is so deeply rooted within their souls that they cannot help it. We need to love loving, and we need to love even when we hate.
So, maybe, just maybe, love is actually 100% accurate.
-Emily xo
And, there is one, single word to describe all of those different feelings. If you have ever fallen in love with someone, then you know that that feeling is entirely one of it's own, and is in no way close to the feeling of eating your favourite food, or the feeling you have about your dearest friend. I have never been a mother, but I know if you ask one they will tell you that the love they feel for their children is yet again totally of it's own, and very unlike the feelings of love they have for their spouse. If you ask any Christian, they will tell you they love God above all, but they use the same word to describe their feeling toward the Almighty God as to tell you about their favourite dessert. Love.
I was thinking about this the other day, and pondering how seemingly unfair it is that our vocabulary is so restricted in this way. I also thought that, if our language provided only one word to express all these feelings, then is it wrong to use it so freely? I mean, people always say, "hate is a strong word.", but is love not even stronger? So, shouldn't we be more careful about how we use the word love, then how we use the word hate? The more I thought about it though, I realized something else. Maybe it isn't all that unfair after all. Maybe it is just right.
Here's what I have concluded... We do not need hundreds of words to describe the hundreds of different feelings we have towards many, many things. God is love. If that is true (which I believe it is), then we cannot have love without God. That means that everything we 'love' is a reflection of the love that God is. We need to love everything then, right?
Really though, our lives are meant to reflect and shine the love of God, and the best, most successful way of doing that is by loving. Think of the most truly joyful person you know. Chances are they love everything. Literally.That is because they have the beautiful ability to see God in absolutely everything. They may not even know that that is what they are doing, but the love of Christ is so deeply rooted within their souls that they cannot help it. We need to love loving, and we need to love even when we hate.
So, maybe, just maybe, love is actually 100% accurate.
-Emily xo
Saturday, April 27, 2013
Dealing with Stress
This week has been so very stressful. My life has been crazy, and I have been feeling quite overwhelmed. I am sure I am not the only one feeling this way, so I wanted to share with you my tips for dealing with stress in our lives.
1. Pray.
I think this is something we know in our hearts, but when we're in the middle of a stressful time it is often the thing that we are quick to forget. Not only is this the perfect opportunity to ask for strength and grace to preserve through the tough times when no human ability can, but it also has an incredibly calming effect on one's soul!
2. Breathe.
You have probably heard people say, "Just breath!" But, that is wayyyy easier said then done! Really take a moment to clear your mind of all your worries, and take a good deep breath. Literally, breathe deeply. It will help put everything into perspective.
3. Be Thankful.
Once you've taken a deep breath, take a moment and be thankful. Be thankful for your breath in that moment, and for everything that is going right in your life (that second part may take a minute to figure out). Be thankful for this moment, because it will never happen again!
4. Remember the Purpose.
At the end of the day, when it's all said and done, what is the purpose of what you're doing? Maybe you're stressed about money & making ends meet. But, at the end of that day, what is the purpose of that money? More then likely, it's so you and your family can live. The purpose is your family. So, remember that you have them, and that is the most important thing.
And, remember that our ultimate purpose is to bring glory to God. So be sure your life is giving glory to God, and that you are preparing your soul for Heaven. Be an example of that to everyone you meet...and nothing else matters.
5. Talk it Out.
If you're anything like me, you hate talking about what is wrong. However, I find when I am able to talk things out, either with God, Troy, my Mom or a close friend, things seem less dramatic. And, they can sometimes offer wisdom from the outside. When we are too close, or too emotionally involved in a situation it's challenging for us to get a good outside perspective, so talking it out with someone can often help.
6. Take a Break.
Allow yourself a break. Maybe you only have a five minute break, but take advantage of it. If you really enjoy tea, make yourself a cup. Or go for a walk around the block. Just remove yourself from the stress. If you can't physically escape, just allow your mind to turn off for a couple minutes.
If you are able to go away for the weekend, do it! Take a good book and plan something relaxing, that you'll really enjoy and allow yourself the break.
7. Keep a Picture close by.
I find that having something special to me close by when I am stressed helps calm me down. Family photos work well. If work is stressing you out, keep a photo of your family from a vacation, or some fun memory, on your desk to look at. While you look at it, say a prayer for each one of them. It will help ease your mind & calm your soul.
8. Cry.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with crying. Give yourself permission to break down and sob. Give yourself permission to have tears flow for as long as they need to. It can be a wonderful release of pent up emotion!
9. It Could be Worse.
Put it in perspective. Things could be worse, and somewhere someone is having a worse time then you are.
10. Take a Nap and Just go to Bed!
Sleep is a wonderful thing, and has the power to revive you, and totally turn your outlook around. Go to bed earlier, or have a nap if you can. Remember, things look brighter in the morning.
11.Pray.
This one is so important that it should begin and end the de-stress process. Pray!!
I hope these help! I am praying for you also. Remember, someone will always love you.
Emily xox
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Rainy Thursday Cuppa Tea
Today I am so thankful for tea. It's awfully wet here this morning, and a warm cuppa tea is just the thing!
Rainy days are always good writing days. Or reading days. Or napping days. Or movie watching days. Basically anything that involves a couch, warm blanket and TEA!
Did you know tea is actually super good for you? I mean, besides tasting wonderful it actually has amazing health benefits. I wanted to tell you all about a few you may not be aware of, or at least I wasn't until I did some research.
1. Research has shown that tea may actually help in reducing your chance of having a heart attack, or other cardiovascular diseases. 1
2. Tea has been shown to protect people from a wide variety of cancers. 2
3. Tea may also make you age more slowly, because consuming green and black tea can protect your skin from harm of UV rays that can cause wrinkles and even skin cancer. 3 & 4
4. Drinking green tea regularly can help your skin in other ways as well. It can actually improve skin's elasticity. Tea contains EGCG polyphenol, which can help fight bacteria on the skin, and promote heathy, clear skin. Tea, especially green, can help with inflammation and swelling on your skin, and can help with skin conditions, like acne. Using products on your skin that contain green tea extract can also aid in the health of your skin. St. Ives has a good one, or you can check here for some simple ideas of how to use green tea on your face. 4
5. Drinking tea can actually promote great oral health. It can prevent decay of your pearly whites, and fight against bad breath. The fluoride present in tea can help protect against cavities, and the catechins (or antioxidants) help fight bad breath (halitosis) by killing bacteria that is in your mouth. Tea also contains calcium and magnesium. That helps in teeth and bone formation and strengthening. 5
6. Who doesn't want to fight some body fat? Green tea has high amounts of catechins, which do this amazing thing called blocking fat. Yay! The especially benefit the abdominal area. The catechins also help burn fat, by activating enzymes in the body that aid in metabolism. Studies have also shown that the EGCG polyphenal found in green tea actually helps you gain weight more slowly. Who doesn't love that? 5, 6, 7
Anyway, if these don't make you go get yourself a cuppa tea, I don't know what will! Be sure to check out all the link in this post (I know, there are a lot this time), because that's where I did all my research about tea. It's pretty fascinating, actually. And, there are benefits I didn't even touch on in this post.
Cheers and blessings,
Emily xo
Links I used...
2. See Number Three on this page.
3. Taken from this study.
4. See Green Tea Protects From Sun.
5. Find out about oral health benefits of tea from this Canadian Living article.
6. Check out this article from Shape Magazine,
7. Science Daily study on green tea benefits.
Saturday, April 13, 2013
Am I Third?
Last night I was teaching a Theology of the Body for Teens class. The focus for this chapter was using vs. loving, and willing the complete good of another in all your relationships.
It's funny how, even as a teacher of the course, you learn some fascinating insights. I obviously knew the difference between loving and using, and, on a surface-y level, always strived to want the good of another person, as opposed to using them for my own selfish reasons. But, I realized I am not all that good at loving after all. More times then not, I want things my way, even if I don't admit it. I use people I know for drives, for someone to hang out with and for excuses, and most of the time I don't even know I am doing it.
As I was teaching the lesson to the girls last night I was doing some serious reflecting on my own relationships; dating, family and friends. I was recalling how I have felt in the past when I knew I was being used by someone. I felt like crap. I was angry and annoyed and built up frustration towards them, without ever really addressing the issue. I hate the feeling of being used.
I don't mean being used in a sexual way and then being tossed aside. Thank you God, for never allowing me to experience that pain. But, I have been used by people who only keep me as their friend in case no one else wanted to hang out, or by people who were only kind to me when they wanted a drive somewhere, or by people who took advantage of my inability to say 'no' when asked to do something or help with something. And, I still hold resentment for some of those people.
I also realized that the people I have used in the past were probably well aware of the fact I was using them. I don't mean I used them all the time, but I did take advantage of their kindness, selflessness, and time on more then one occasion. I more then likely made them feel like crap. But, all of those people still love me.
I can't say the same for the people who I have felt used by. Most of those people I have driven out of my life, thinking it would be easier to remove them then to have to face them and admit they'd hurt me. How pathetic is that? I can't even forgive them and move on! Yet, the people I have used continue to love me and do what is best for me. They are nearly always selfless, and put me ahead of themselves.
Now I am embarrassed to say this, but I use God all the time. When I am overwhelmed, stressed out, angry or don't know where to turn, I run crying to God. Which is fabulous, right? Except when things are going perfectly I often forget to stop, thank Him, and pray for someone who's life maybe isn't going so smoothly. And, yet, He still always loves me. Always. He never, for even a second, stops. If He stopped loving me, I would cease to exist.
Mind blown.
Here is the King of the Universe, who has the power to stop loving me, and therefore end my mere existence, and He never does. He knows every inch of my heart, and he knows the deep-rooted selfishness that lies there, that no one on Earth can see, and HE STILL LOVES ME!
And here I am, being all selfish and unable to forgive those who use me. Sigh...
Anyway, the point of this is to challenge you to love others. To always put their will before your own.
I am third.
Care to join me as we strive to always be third? Let's keep one another accountable here!
Many prayers and love,
Emily xox
It's funny how, even as a teacher of the course, you learn some fascinating insights. I obviously knew the difference between loving and using, and, on a surface-y level, always strived to want the good of another person, as opposed to using them for my own selfish reasons. But, I realized I am not all that good at loving after all. More times then not, I want things my way, even if I don't admit it. I use people I know for drives, for someone to hang out with and for excuses, and most of the time I don't even know I am doing it.
As I was teaching the lesson to the girls last night I was doing some serious reflecting on my own relationships; dating, family and friends. I was recalling how I have felt in the past when I knew I was being used by someone. I felt like crap. I was angry and annoyed and built up frustration towards them, without ever really addressing the issue. I hate the feeling of being used.
I don't mean being used in a sexual way and then being tossed aside. Thank you God, for never allowing me to experience that pain. But, I have been used by people who only keep me as their friend in case no one else wanted to hang out, or by people who were only kind to me when they wanted a drive somewhere, or by people who took advantage of my inability to say 'no' when asked to do something or help with something. And, I still hold resentment for some of those people.
I also realized that the people I have used in the past were probably well aware of the fact I was using them. I don't mean I used them all the time, but I did take advantage of their kindness, selflessness, and time on more then one occasion. I more then likely made them feel like crap. But, all of those people still love me.
I can't say the same for the people who I have felt used by. Most of those people I have driven out of my life, thinking it would be easier to remove them then to have to face them and admit they'd hurt me. How pathetic is that? I can't even forgive them and move on! Yet, the people I have used continue to love me and do what is best for me. They are nearly always selfless, and put me ahead of themselves.
Now I am embarrassed to say this, but I use God all the time. When I am overwhelmed, stressed out, angry or don't know where to turn, I run crying to God. Which is fabulous, right? Except when things are going perfectly I often forget to stop, thank Him, and pray for someone who's life maybe isn't going so smoothly. And, yet, He still always loves me. Always. He never, for even a second, stops. If He stopped loving me, I would cease to exist.
Mind blown.
Here is the King of the Universe, who has the power to stop loving me, and therefore end my mere existence, and He never does. He knows every inch of my heart, and he knows the deep-rooted selfishness that lies there, that no one on Earth can see, and HE STILL LOVES ME!
And here I am, being all selfish and unable to forgive those who use me. Sigh...
Anyway, the point of this is to challenge you to love others. To always put their will before your own.
I am third.
Care to join me as we strive to always be third? Let's keep one another accountable here!
Many prayers and love,
Emily xox
Friday, November 2, 2012
An Altogether Happy Friday
It's Friday again, Internet! I hope you are all enjoying this last day of your week and are all set for an absolutely wonderful weekend!
This morning, bright and early, I had a silly driving test. For those of you who live in Ontario, I had to get my G class license because my G2 expires soon. For those of you who don't live in Ontario, basically to get your full license you have three test; one written (G1) which allows you to drive with a licensed driver only and you have that for 8 months- one year; and two driving tests. The first driving test graduates you from your G1 to your G2, at which time you are permitted to drive on your own. This license expires after 5 years, so sometime during that you have to do your second road test (the one I did this morning) which gets you your full license.
I woke up bright and early, as my test was at 8:30am, and I had to be there half an hour early and the test centre is about a twenty minute drive from me. I hate these tests with a passion. I know, I know, hate is a strong word. But, seriously. When I had to do my G2 test I was a nervous wreck and when I got it I was a nervous wreck all over again because I knew in a few years I would have to do it all over again. However, it is now over. Thank Heavens! And, it wasn't even that bad!
After I did my test I was so happy and I realized I had a wee bit of time to kill before having to be at work, so I thought, "Timmie's, here I come!" It was busy, as per usual in the morning hours. So I went in rather then choosing the drive thru option. This was a dangerous decision. Typically, I am a green tea gal, once in awhile coffee, but usually green tea. However, when I went in I saw their tea lattes on a sign and who can resist a Chai Tea Latte with a Hazelnut shot? Seriously, who? Not Emily obviously. Then I saw a cute sign in front of a tray of Pumpkin Spice Muffins. And really, who can resist that? I let with a tray full of unhealthy-ness. Thank you Tim Hortons, thank you.
I also discovered something very exciting today. While I was waiting for my drive test I was sitting in my car in the parking lot of the test centre and out of sheer boredom, was playing with my window controls. The rear passenger side window in my car has never worked since I bought it almost two years ago. But, today when I was playing with the controls it went down! I know, crazy! Then I panicked because what if it didn't go back up? But it did, thankfully. I then proceeded to try it over & over again, just be sure I was not imagining anything. Hopefully my dear window keeps up this good behaviour!
Well that wraps up my Friday excitement. You're probably reading this thinking, "What in the world..." But you do not even understand how good this day is. It is also All Souls Day, so I know all the deceased members of my family and my dear friends must be praying for me extra today. I know I am praying for their lovely souls!
Since it's Friday evening, that means my weekend has kicked off! Yippee! What are you doing this weekend? Mine is jammed packed full of goodness.
I don't know about where you are, but where I live, the Rifle Deer Hunt kicks off this coming Monday, November 7th. So, in my lovely small town and all the small towns near by, that basically means everything shuts down and the men head to their hunt camps. The hunt lasts two weeks and, I'm not joking, nearly every man around here books off at least one of those weeks. Some woman do also, but mostly they stay home and resent their husbands. This is a big deal.
My darling boyfriend is one of these avid book-an-entire-week-off-and-stay-at-the-hunt-camp-ers. So it's adios dear Troy. This weekend is also basically a write off since the camp he goes to starts their extravaganza tonight and stay there til next Sunday. Since they can't hunt this weekend they just hang out and drink beer. Saturday night, however, they host a big spaghetti dinner and the wives, girlfriends, children, siblings and parents of the 4 guys are allowed to come over and join in the fun. So, needless to say, I will be spending tomorrow night at the good ol' hunt camp. Surly I will have a story or two for you then.
Sunday is going to be a fabulous day! On November 9th my grandparents will have been married for 49 years. Since that is right, smack dab in the middle of hunting seasons, and undoubtedly all of my uncles and cousins will be gone, we decided this was our only option to celebrate.
Forty nine years, 8 children, 31 grandchildren...not too shabby. Sunday we will all be at my grandparent's celebrating their beautiful marriage with a big lunch after Mass. Congratulations Nanna and Poppa!
Well, this has been awfully rambley (that is most definitely not a word). I hope you all have a beautiful, safe and blessed weekend!
Happy All Souls Day,
-E
This morning, bright and early, I had a silly driving test. For those of you who live in Ontario, I had to get my G class license because my G2 expires soon. For those of you who don't live in Ontario, basically to get your full license you have three test; one written (G1) which allows you to drive with a licensed driver only and you have that for 8 months- one year; and two driving tests. The first driving test graduates you from your G1 to your G2, at which time you are permitted to drive on your own. This license expires after 5 years, so sometime during that you have to do your second road test (the one I did this morning) which gets you your full license.
I woke up bright and early, as my test was at 8:30am, and I had to be there half an hour early and the test centre is about a twenty minute drive from me. I hate these tests with a passion. I know, I know, hate is a strong word. But, seriously. When I had to do my G2 test I was a nervous wreck and when I got it I was a nervous wreck all over again because I knew in a few years I would have to do it all over again. However, it is now over. Thank Heavens! And, it wasn't even that bad!
After I did my test I was so happy and I realized I had a wee bit of time to kill before having to be at work, so I thought, "Timmie's, here I come!" It was busy, as per usual in the morning hours. So I went in rather then choosing the drive thru option. This was a dangerous decision. Typically, I am a green tea gal, once in awhile coffee, but usually green tea. However, when I went in I saw their tea lattes on a sign and who can resist a Chai Tea Latte with a Hazelnut shot? Seriously, who? Not Emily obviously. Then I saw a cute sign in front of a tray of Pumpkin Spice Muffins. And really, who can resist that? I let with a tray full of unhealthy-ness. Thank you Tim Hortons, thank you.
I also discovered something very exciting today. While I was waiting for my drive test I was sitting in my car in the parking lot of the test centre and out of sheer boredom, was playing with my window controls. The rear passenger side window in my car has never worked since I bought it almost two years ago. But, today when I was playing with the controls it went down! I know, crazy! Then I panicked because what if it didn't go back up? But it did, thankfully. I then proceeded to try it over & over again, just be sure I was not imagining anything. Hopefully my dear window keeps up this good behaviour!
Well that wraps up my Friday excitement. You're probably reading this thinking, "What in the world..." But you do not even understand how good this day is. It is also All Souls Day, so I know all the deceased members of my family and my dear friends must be praying for me extra today. I know I am praying for their lovely souls!
Since it's Friday evening, that means my weekend has kicked off! Yippee! What are you doing this weekend? Mine is jammed packed full of goodness.
I don't know about where you are, but where I live, the Rifle Deer Hunt kicks off this coming Monday, November 7th. So, in my lovely small town and all the small towns near by, that basically means everything shuts down and the men head to their hunt camps. The hunt lasts two weeks and, I'm not joking, nearly every man around here books off at least one of those weeks. Some woman do also, but mostly they stay home and resent their husbands. This is a big deal.
My darling boyfriend is one of these avid book-an-entire-week-off-and-stay-at-the-hunt-camp-ers. So it's adios dear Troy. This weekend is also basically a write off since the camp he goes to starts their extravaganza tonight and stay there til next Sunday. Since they can't hunt this weekend they just hang out and drink beer. Saturday night, however, they host a big spaghetti dinner and the wives, girlfriends, children, siblings and parents of the 4 guys are allowed to come over and join in the fun. So, needless to say, I will be spending tomorrow night at the good ol' hunt camp. Surly I will have a story or two for you then.
Sunday is going to be a fabulous day! On November 9th my grandparents will have been married for 49 years. Since that is right, smack dab in the middle of hunting seasons, and undoubtedly all of my uncles and cousins will be gone, we decided this was our only option to celebrate.
Forty nine years, 8 children, 31 grandchildren...not too shabby. Sunday we will all be at my grandparent's celebrating their beautiful marriage with a big lunch after Mass. Congratulations Nanna and Poppa!
Well, this has been awfully rambley (that is most definitely not a word). I hope you all have a beautiful, safe and blessed weekend!
Happy All Souls Day,
-E
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Rainy Weekend
After one heck of a drought this past summer I am grateful for all the rain we have been getting these last few weeks of fall. However, it can be a real pain when all it does is rain! You have to get creative, because part of you is dying to be outside because you know the cold of winter is on the way and you want to enjoy the last wee bit of reasonable weather. The other part of you just wants to be so lazy and enjoy the pitter patter of the rain from your nice dry bed.
I can relate to both of these feelings. I decided it might be helpful to have a list of rainy day ideas so you don't have to get to creative while fighting the temptation to stay in bed.
Here you are my dears! Embrace the rain!
Lazy, "I just want to stay in bed" type of ideas:
1. Get a giant mug and a warm pot of tea or coffee, locate a comfy couch, some blankets and maybe a pillow or two. And, most importantly, get a giant good book to read to your heart's content.
I recommend any of the Karen Kingsbury books, as they are a favourite of mine at the moment. I would also suggest you find a comfy seat near a window. If you sit facing a window you can enjoy the beauty of the rain transforming the world outside and if you sit next to the window you can hear the lovely sound of rain on the window (which has the extraordinary power of lulling me to sleep).
2. Find someone you love and sit together on a couch, cuddled with blankets and pillows and watch the rain together and chat the whole day long. A lovely bonding experience and can be so much fun!
I can relate to both of these feelings. I decided it might be helpful to have a list of rainy day ideas so you don't have to get to creative while fighting the temptation to stay in bed.
Here you are my dears! Embrace the rain!
Lazy, "I just want to stay in bed" type of ideas:
1. Get a giant mug and a warm pot of tea or coffee, locate a comfy couch, some blankets and maybe a pillow or two. And, most importantly, get a giant good book to read to your heart's content.
I recommend any of the Karen Kingsbury books, as they are a favourite of mine at the moment. I would also suggest you find a comfy seat near a window. If you sit facing a window you can enjoy the beauty of the rain transforming the world outside and if you sit next to the window you can hear the lovely sound of rain on the window (which has the extraordinary power of lulling me to sleep).
2. Find someone you love and sit together on a couch, cuddled with blankets and pillows and watch the rain together and chat the whole day long. A lovely bonding experience and can be so much fun!
3. Pick a good rainy day movie and cuddle up to have a movie day! Movie days, in my opinion, should only ever happen when it is raining. I am a sucker for chick fllicks, so Sweet Home Alabama, Dear John, Bride Wars, The Proposal or something of the sort. Or, for a family movie, Up, Finding Nemo, Despicable Me, The Waltons (my all time favourite), Little House on the Prairie, Mary Poppins...any of those are good, fun choices.
I like to make a giant blanket & pillow fort for rainy day movie watching!
Something Fun to do Ideas:
1. Bust out your favourite board or card game. My favourite is Apples to Apples, and that's great for any age. I also recommend Bananagrams, You Don't Say, Dutch Blitz, Scene It, or just good, ol' Go Fish!
Have the best game day the world has ever known!
2. I love to bake all the time, but there is just something about rainy days that makes it so much more fun. So bust out your apron and the flour and get your kitchen into one big, delicious mess!
3. Why not embrace the rain? Find your most reliable boots and head out to puddle jump. When was the last time you jumped in a puddle, on purpose? It is so fun and the world's best stress reliever!
4. Kind of along the same lines of card and board games, a puzzle is always fun for a rainy day. I recently bought my friend a puzzle for her birthday. It was an Awkward Family Photo's Puzzle and was hilarious!
5. Dancing in the rain. It seems like such a silly thing, but is so much fun. There is something totally freeing about letting go of caring about your hair getting wet or your make up running. Try it! And, get someone to come with you. It makes it even more fun. You'll laugh til you're crying!
6. This one could also be a lazy day option. Find a place with a tin roof and spend the day there. What you do when you're there doesn't really matter, but there is something incredibly comforting about the sound of rain on a tin roof.
7. Find a chair and place to sit that is outside, but out of the rain. A closed in or covered porch, inside the door of the garage or carport. Anywhere you can stay dry and be outside is perfect. Nothing beats the smell or fresh rain and watching it fall.
Well those are all the ideas I have for you now. I hope that if it is raining where you are this weekend I have helped you fill the hours and enjoy your weekend!
Many blessings and prayers,
Emily
Friday, October 19, 2012
Protecting Your Angels
Okay, so I am not a mother, and I will not pretend to know the trials, joys and sorrows of being one. However, I am a daughter, a big sister and hopefully, one day, I will be a Momma.
I know there are a lot of tough decisions you have to make as a parent. Should she be allowed to go to this party? Out with that boy? To that sports game? Should she be on contraceptives? Should she be vaccinated? If so, what ones do I allow, which ones do I say no to?
Today I came across a very disturbing article. It is entitled "Teenage Girl Becomes Infertile after Gardasil Vaccination" and is written by Steven Mosher & Elizabeth Crnkovich. The article tells the story of a 16 year old Australian girl who received the Garasil vaccination in 2008 and has since experienced "premature ovarian failure". The doctor that diagnosed her said that she cannot say for sure that Gardasil was the cause, but they have ruled out all other possible causes.
I have linked the article at the bottom of this blog for you to check out & read more about the vaccine, which is strongly promoted in schools for 11 & 12 year old girls. I have also heard rumours that they have recently come out with one for boys as well. I am not sure that that is true, but I have heard it. I think the article is definitely worth some attention, because if Gardasil is causing some serious infertility issues in your daughters, sisters, or even yourself, then we're living in a pretty scary world.
The article also says that immediately after this young lady received the vaccine she experienced irregularity in menstruation and was told by her physician to take oral birth control. She refused, but it is believed that is she had agreed then the symptoms of this early menopause may have been masked and never correctly diagnosed. I wonder if there are not more woman out there suffering from awful impacts of Gardasil, and may not be aware because the are taking contraceptives?
So, an interesting read and worthwhile sharing!
Protect your little angels, and don't let them get the vaccine. I have never had it because my parents said 'no' when the school tried to force it on me. I am now more thankful then ever that the didn't agree to it. I sent my Mom an email this morning with a link to the article for her to pass on and thanking her for not allowing me to get it.
Anyway, have a lovely weekend Internet!
Love & prayers,
Em
Article Link:
http://pop.org/content/teenage-girl-becomes-infertile-after-gardasil-vaccination
As a little disclaimer, I am a Catholic, and the reasons my parents chose not to vaccinate me with the Gardasil vaccination was, at the time, purely a choice of morality and faith.
They, and I, believe that since this vaccine protects against HPV, which is transmitted through sexual intercourse, it should not be necessary. My siblings and I were taught that sex out of marriage is morally unacceptable and against the teachings of our faith, so contracting this disease should not be an issue if we live according to our faith.
I know some people will say, "What if I am raped?" Fair enough. However, if I am raped then there are going to be a lot of issues that I will need to deal with, and I do not think I will care if I was vaccinated against HPV at that moment. I would also rather take that risk, and pray that that never happens, because I do not want to do anything to destroy the possibility of having children one day.
I also do not believe in the use of contraceptives for any reason. My faith and morals being the primary reasons, and I have also done research and I have not liked the medical stats on those using contraceptives.
I know there are a lot of tough decisions you have to make as a parent. Should she be allowed to go to this party? Out with that boy? To that sports game? Should she be on contraceptives? Should she be vaccinated? If so, what ones do I allow, which ones do I say no to?
Today I came across a very disturbing article. It is entitled "Teenage Girl Becomes Infertile after Gardasil Vaccination" and is written by Steven Mosher & Elizabeth Crnkovich. The article tells the story of a 16 year old Australian girl who received the Garasil vaccination in 2008 and has since experienced "premature ovarian failure". The doctor that diagnosed her said that she cannot say for sure that Gardasil was the cause, but they have ruled out all other possible causes.
I have linked the article at the bottom of this blog for you to check out & read more about the vaccine, which is strongly promoted in schools for 11 & 12 year old girls. I have also heard rumours that they have recently come out with one for boys as well. I am not sure that that is true, but I have heard it. I think the article is definitely worth some attention, because if Gardasil is causing some serious infertility issues in your daughters, sisters, or even yourself, then we're living in a pretty scary world.
The article also says that immediately after this young lady received the vaccine she experienced irregularity in menstruation and was told by her physician to take oral birth control. She refused, but it is believed that is she had agreed then the symptoms of this early menopause may have been masked and never correctly diagnosed. I wonder if there are not more woman out there suffering from awful impacts of Gardasil, and may not be aware because the are taking contraceptives?
So, an interesting read and worthwhile sharing!
Protect your little angels, and don't let them get the vaccine. I have never had it because my parents said 'no' when the school tried to force it on me. I am now more thankful then ever that the didn't agree to it. I sent my Mom an email this morning with a link to the article for her to pass on and thanking her for not allowing me to get it.
Anyway, have a lovely weekend Internet!
Love & prayers,
Em
Article Link:
http://pop.org/content/teenage-girl-becomes-infertile-after-gardasil-vaccination
As a little disclaimer, I am a Catholic, and the reasons my parents chose not to vaccinate me with the Gardasil vaccination was, at the time, purely a choice of morality and faith.
They, and I, believe that since this vaccine protects against HPV, which is transmitted through sexual intercourse, it should not be necessary. My siblings and I were taught that sex out of marriage is morally unacceptable and against the teachings of our faith, so contracting this disease should not be an issue if we live according to our faith.
I know some people will say, "What if I am raped?" Fair enough. However, if I am raped then there are going to be a lot of issues that I will need to deal with, and I do not think I will care if I was vaccinated against HPV at that moment. I would also rather take that risk, and pray that that never happens, because I do not want to do anything to destroy the possibility of having children one day.
I also do not believe in the use of contraceptives for any reason. My faith and morals being the primary reasons, and I have also done research and I have not liked the medical stats on those using contraceptives.
Thursday, October 18, 2012
A Hometown Tourist
Hey ya'll!
I hope you are all having a lovely Thursday! I am exhausted, so apologies in advance if this is all over the place!
This week I have a friend staying with me who is visiting from Alberta. I met her when I was serving with NET Ministries in 2010. Now she has come to visit my lovely province for the first time. Yay!
I picked her up at the airport on Tuesday and we went on to explore the city. I live about an hour and a half from the airport, and go to the city often enough. But, I also take for granted that I live near it and never do tourist-y type things. As any good tour guide, I tried to take my friend to all the places you would typically visit when going there. So, I was an all out tourist, with the camera and everything!
I brought her back to my apartment for the week, which is in a fairly small city of about 14,000 people or so. Needless to say, there is not a lot of touist-y type things going on. There are a lot of smaller towns near by that are fairly touristy in the summer months, but come the fall, a lot of things shut down. I am really having to get creative.
But, I truly am running out of ideas! Help! If any of you have any suggestions for things to show her in small town Ontario please share them.
I did however, come up with a brilliant idea of how we are going to spend this evening. My family. They are always good for entertainment and there is never, ever a dull moment in that house. She will meet them for the first time. Good luck, my dear, good luck!
I know this is a fairly 'lame' post, but I wanted to fill you in on the life of yours truly!
It's almost the weekend, so here's to the last bit of your week :)
God Bless,
Emily
I hope you are all having a lovely Thursday! I am exhausted, so apologies in advance if this is all over the place!
This week I have a friend staying with me who is visiting from Alberta. I met her when I was serving with NET Ministries in 2010. Now she has come to visit my lovely province for the first time. Yay!
I picked her up at the airport on Tuesday and we went on to explore the city. I live about an hour and a half from the airport, and go to the city often enough. But, I also take for granted that I live near it and never do tourist-y type things. As any good tour guide, I tried to take my friend to all the places you would typically visit when going there. So, I was an all out tourist, with the camera and everything!I brought her back to my apartment for the week, which is in a fairly small city of about 14,000 people or so. Needless to say, there is not a lot of touist-y type things going on. There are a lot of smaller towns near by that are fairly touristy in the summer months, but come the fall, a lot of things shut down. I am really having to get creative.
But, I truly am running out of ideas! Help! If any of you have any suggestions for things to show her in small town Ontario please share them.
I did however, come up with a brilliant idea of how we are going to spend this evening. My family. They are always good for entertainment and there is never, ever a dull moment in that house. She will meet them for the first time. Good luck, my dear, good luck!
I know this is a fairly 'lame' post, but I wanted to fill you in on the life of yours truly!
It's almost the weekend, so here's to the last bit of your week :)
God Bless,
Emily
Friday, October 12, 2012
Friday Oh Friday
Happy Friday Internet!
It is freezing here today-typical Canada. And as I was sitting at work I heard this strange noise and looked out the window. The sun was shining and looking lovely and there was snow falling! Snow...It's October 12th. I am so not ready for snow!
But, it stopped about 2 seconds later. Whew!
Today I wanted to share with you a recipe for a warm lovely beverage for a Friday night. Who doesn't like to kick back and relax on a Friday evening with a big glass of wine, or a beer? But, if you're like me and want to cuddle up with something warm, then a beer or some wine is just not going to cut it when it is freezing outside. So, what we truly need it something warm and alcoholic. Right?
So, let me know what you think of this little puppy!
Toasty Warm:
1 oz. Bailey's Irish Cream
1 oz. Butterscotch Ripple Schnapps
Hot Chocolate (as much as your little heart desires in your mug)
Whipped Cream
Ok so what you're going to do in make some hot chocolate in a mug. You can use Coffee also, but if you're like me, you won't want Coffee at night. I really like the Tim Hortons' Hot Chocolate that you can purchase at any Tim's. But, any Hot Chocolate will do. Once you have it mixed with the water or milk in your mug you had the Irish Cream and the Schnapps. Mix all those together and top with Whipped Cream.
You can also add Grand Marnier or Kahlua if you prefer. Or, add them in addition to the Irish Cream and Schnapps.
I hope you enjoy it as you kick back and relax this Friday night!
Cheers,
Em xo
It is freezing here today-typical Canada. And as I was sitting at work I heard this strange noise and looked out the window. The sun was shining and looking lovely and there was snow falling! Snow...It's October 12th. I am so not ready for snow!
But, it stopped about 2 seconds later. Whew!
Today I wanted to share with you a recipe for a warm lovely beverage for a Friday night. Who doesn't like to kick back and relax on a Friday evening with a big glass of wine, or a beer? But, if you're like me and want to cuddle up with something warm, then a beer or some wine is just not going to cut it when it is freezing outside. So, what we truly need it something warm and alcoholic. Right?
So, let me know what you think of this little puppy!
Toasty Warm:
1 oz. Bailey's Irish Cream
1 oz. Butterscotch Ripple Schnapps
Hot Chocolate (as much as your little heart desires in your mug)
Whipped Cream
Ok so what you're going to do in make some hot chocolate in a mug. You can use Coffee also, but if you're like me, you won't want Coffee at night. I really like the Tim Hortons' Hot Chocolate that you can purchase at any Tim's. But, any Hot Chocolate will do. Once you have it mixed with the water or milk in your mug you had the Irish Cream and the Schnapps. Mix all those together and top with Whipped Cream.
You can also add Grand Marnier or Kahlua if you prefer. Or, add them in addition to the Irish Cream and Schnapps.
I hope you enjoy it as you kick back and relax this Friday night!
Cheers,
Em xo
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