Christ the King and Advent Traditions

Our family traditions are beginning to take shape. This year seemed to go so smoothly in preparing for all the great events of the season. The boys made the candles years ago at one of our homeschool group craft days. I usually make a crown cake, but this year, in cleaning out my pantry, I thought I'd kill two birds with one stone and use up the cereal and marshmallows cluttering up my pantry.

Short on time, I decided on a Rice Krispie treat crown

The first Sunday of Advent.

Over the years, we've managed to perfect our Advent wreath making--a purple charger, greens and pine cones from a neighborhood tree, candle holder from last year's Advent retreat at Santiago, and a three-year supply of Advent candles. We also purchased Ale Baker's Christmas book at the retreat. It has beautiful family prayers that we use on the Sundays of Advent as we light the candles. Our dinner was a simple spaghetti and meatballs.

Each night of Advent, we follow the story of salvation from Genesis to the Nativity by reading from our Chilren's Picture Bible and placing an ornament on our Jesse Tree. I just wish I could get them to sing O Come, O Come Emmanuel with me!

Since I'm so late in posting, our Jesse Tree is complete in the photo.

Camperall 2011 El Potrero

Morning flag ceremony

We had a pretty good turnout.

This year, I decided to help
the Troop teach the Webelos
Showman skills.

Relaxing in the afternoon with the Webelos den.

Ahh, camp cooking--a time-honored Scout skill

St. Teresa of Avila, October 15

To honor the Spanish patrons of the Order of Discalced Carmelites, I make Paella, a traditional country dish. This year's was good, but I didn't get the good socarrat (toasted rice) at the bottom.

MCAS Miramar Air Show

First Day of School

Well, we did it. The boys are in a brick and mortar school for the first time since preschool. It's opening day for the brand new school as well, and they put on a heck of a show! We were greeted with bagels, doughnuts, milk and coffee while waiting to go into the classroom. The parents returned for a celebratory assembly replete with a skate/bmx demonstration, givaways, and even a . . . well, see for yourself.

John Michael, Mark, Jett, Andy and Nathan--what a handsome crew!

The cheerleaders started the year early preparing a great cheer for opening day.

All patiently endured the 90+ temps as they watched the amazing demonstration.

 

Family Camping

We had a wonderful little family vacation at the beach. The weather was simply perfect, the campground was sparsely populated, the water was clear, and the waves were just right for boogie boarding. We seem to have just missed the super high tides. The family needed this time away from everyday life. Steve and I especially enjoyed some heart-to-heart time.
Praying the Rosary beside the fire with the sound of the waves behind me, I thank God for the inspirations and comfort He has given me. I pray for the grace to put them into action for the sake of our family.

Cooking pig-in-a-blanket for lunch. A new favorite!

Grandma's best baked beans to go with the dogs.

He insisted on getting himself out--and made it!

Burying a newly found friend

Steve and John Michael enjoying JM's awesome air conditioner. It picked up the wind coming up the cliff and directed it to the campsite.

Mark's glittery treasure

After a boogie boarding tumble and getting dragged along the bottom.

The perfect way to end the day

Giant marshmallows!

My best drip castle. Photos don't do it justice

The Boys

The family celebrated Memorial Day by attending a service at the historic cemetery where local veterans are laid to rest. The Scouts honor the vets with their attendance. I am so proud of my boys!

August 15: Feast of the Assumption

Our special feast for Assumption featured herbs in every dish. Shrimp Scampi, homemade focaccia with basil, oregano, thyme and garlic, and Assumpta Salad (recipe from Catholic Cuisine).

For dessert, yummy chocolate bundt cake covered in white clouds with Our Lady lifted up.

Beginnings

 The children are growing and changing so very quickly. Here I'll begin our family story while I can still remember.