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AMdeJong Forum Rookie
Joined: March 10 2005
Online Status: Offline Posts: 18
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Posted: March 04 2007 at 11:49am | IP Logged
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Greetings from KS!
A quick reintroduction - I'm Ann Marie, a "reader more than a writer" on this forum, but my, what wonderful insight I've gained! And that's what I'm looking for...more insight.
My dh Jon and I are considering a relocation as we journey through a career change. I'm seeking info on the Catholic church and the homeschool environment in the following cities:
Gunnison, CO
St. George or Salt Lake City, UT
Moscow, ID
Missoula, MT
Bellingham, WA
I'd be grateful for any information or suggestions.
Many thanks,
Ann Marie
Wife to Jon. Mother to Arianna(11), Nikolaas(8), and Mara(3)
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MaryM Board Moderator
Joined: Feb 11 2005 Location: Colorado
Online Status: Offline Posts: 13104
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Posted: March 04 2007 at 1:02pm | IP Logged
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St. Peter's is the parish in Gunnison. It is in the diocese of Pueblo so I am not as familiar with the parishes as I am with ones actually in Denver's Archdiocese. The Pueblo Diocese is the least orthodox of the diocese in our archdiocese, particulary regarding liturgy. I maintain the database for the homeschoolers that we are aware of in the state. I am only aware of one Catholic homeschool family (and they aren't officially homeschooling yet) in Gunnison, the US Olympic cross country skier, Rebecca Dussault. There are a few families in some of the surrounding towns - Crested Butte and Montrose. I could probably get you contacts if you wuold like. It is a beautiful area of the country and while it is several hours from either Colorado Springs or Denver, there is quite a bit of Catholic homeschool support in those places.
__________________ Mary M. in Denver
Our Domestic Church
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AMdeJong Forum Rookie
Joined: March 10 2005
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Posted: March 06 2007 at 11:04am | IP Logged
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Thank you for the info about the Gunnison area, Mary. I would appreciate contacts.
I'm finding this moving opportunity exciting, but a little scary . Currently we live in Wichita, KS, a conservative diosese with an active Catholic homeschool group. Additionally, Wichita has many activities for homeschoolers. I think I may be a bit spoiled.
What is the Denver area Catholic church and homeschool environment like? It looks like my husband may have an opportunity there as well.
My sincere thanks,
Ann Marie
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Tina P. Forum All-Star
Joined: June 28 2005 Location: N/A
Online Status: Offline Posts: 1638
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Posted: March 06 2007 at 1:27pm | IP Logged
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We live about an hour north of SLC, UT in the North Ogden area. Though 80-something percent of the state is Mormon, I found a small group of Catholic HSers here. There are about 4 to 6 ladies I know of who homeschool in Layton (about 1/2 hour north of SLC). This more northerly group is comprised of 4 of us, as well. We all get together once a month for breakfast. Several of us make First Friday Mass and have a free playtime afterwards.
The parish we go to, St. James, is very conservative and our pastor is homeschool-friendly.
And Mary, you can't have her! We need more Catholics than you do!
__________________ Tina, wife to one and mom to 9 + 3 in heaven
Mary's Muse
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knowloveserve Forum All-Star
Joined: Jan 31 2007 Location: Washington
Online Status: Offline Posts: 759
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Posted: March 06 2007 at 3:17pm | IP Logged
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I've been to that parish Tina is talking about in Ogden. Very solid. And she's right that more Catholics are needed there. But it's a fine line to waltz on. I don't know if I could live in such a Mormon state... it'd take consistent dedication to keep your kids Catholic.
(my big worry would be them falling in love with a darling little LDS lass and then it'd be all over...)
Anyway, Bellingham, WA. Gorgeous area. Canadian currency accepted in many locations. Beautiful, FULL, season changes.
I live on Whidbey Island; we commute to the church on Fidalgo Island, St. Mary in Anacortes... which is about 17 miles from Bellingham. It's an awesome parish. Very solid. Beautiful liturgy. New, young, orthodox priest who isn't afraid to talk about things like abortion and birth control. And LOTS of families. Many of them homeschool.
Specific to Bellingham is the Whatcom Homeschool Association. I don't know much about it but here is contact info for the person in charge:
Gary McGill
Phone Number: (360) 671-3689
NWSoftware@comcast.net
__________________ Ellie
The Bleeding Pelican
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AMdeJong Forum Rookie
Joined: March 10 2005
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Posted: March 11 2007 at 1:15pm | IP Logged
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Thank you so much for your responses and contact info.
We really like SLC area, but I do have concerns about the LDS influence on my children. I guess that's where the Catholic church community really becomes important. It's a little like those early Christians...
The Bellingham area must be quite beautiful. I visited Whidbey Island about 17 years ago... (Am I really that old? ) It was delightful - just gorgeous! I'm glad there is a strong Catholic parish nearby with plentiful homeschooling. I've just always assumed that the Pacific NorthWest is very liberal...Catholic church included. My husband is headed up there for a visit next week. What about the growing season? I really enjoy my kitchen garden. Are growing fresh tomatoes and basil an option in Belligham?
Again, my thanks. Have a blessed Sunday!
Ann Marie
Wife to Jon.
Mom to Arianna(11), Nikolaas(8) and Mara(3)
Trust in the Lord with all your heart...
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Dawnie Forum All-Star
Joined: Aug 30 2005 Location: Kansas
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Posted: March 11 2007 at 5:06pm | IP Logged
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Ann Marie,
You're moving??
You'll be missed here. But I hope that God blesses you no matter where you go.
Dawn
__________________ Mom to Mary Beth (99), Anna (02), Lucia (04), Clara (06), and Adelaide Victoria (2/28/09)
Visit my blog!Water Into Wine:Vino Per Tutto!
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AMdeJong Forum Rookie
Joined: March 10 2005
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Posted: March 11 2007 at 5:45pm | IP Logged
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Hi Dawn-
Well...life is a bit up in the air right now. Jon has decided to leave his current job the end of the month. Too much travel and stress. At this point we are considering all options, including staying put in Wichita.
We really enjoy the mountains and recreation in the West - but the cost of living is definitely much higher. I'm trying to check out the church and homeschooling environment of a few potential options.
Funny thing, when one considers moving, suddenly all the beautiful benefits of your community become brighter and are much more appreciated.
Thanks for your kindness!
Ann Marie
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