tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8463739242933716882024-02-07T13:07:51.546-07:00Pinot Noir and Prayers"Prayer is a wine which makes glad the heart of man"
-- Saint Bernard of ClairvauxAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.comBlogger286125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-32703643449010277572018-05-20T18:22:00.001-07:002018-05-20T18:28:55.885-07:00Confessions of an Anti-Cell Phone Parent<img alt="" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-174" height="427" src="https://jessicaannkong.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/qtq80-UcsXNx-1024x683.jpeg" width="640" /><br />
<strong><em><br /></em></strong>
<strong><em>*Stands up*</em></strong><br />
<br />
Hello my name is Jessica Ann Kong and I am an anti-technology parent. I have been petrified to see the past few generations of children and adults become electronic zombies that seem to miss out on so much of the world. Especially if it isn't being seen through the assortment of screens that are so prominent in this time. I have always told myself:<br />
<br />
"No, I won't allow my children to join this technology fad, especially at an early age."<br />
<br />
"No cell phones will be given to my children until high school."<br />
<br />
"There is no way that I will allow my kids to be exposed to harshness of the internet that could ruin their self-image or values."<br />
<br />
Well... here I am with a soon to be 6th grader and I have come to realize that as much as I want to protect him from the dangers that lurk in the unknown of the cyber world...the cyber bullies, predators, the over sexualized culture, the obscure body standards and the rest of the never-ending list of reason I am scared of allowing my children to have access to the cyber world... But it is how the world teaches, builds and communicates. I have allowed television and computers. I have dabbled with tablets but I have NEVER taken the leap into cell phones.<br />
<br />
I am just a scared mom that has realized that I cannot hide my children from this technology and so I have decided to embrace it. Maybe not the traditional way but I am doing it.<br />
<br />
<em><strong>*Sits Down*</strong></em><br />
<em><strong><br /></strong></em>
Here are 4 things I have done to prepare myself and my children as we leap into the unknown territory of cell phones.<br />
<br />
<h1>
<strong>Limit Screen Time</strong></h1>
<div>
<strong><br /></strong></div>
We have only ever allowed 1 hour of screen time unless we are watching a movie together as a family. My youngest son has Autism and screen time can really over stimulate him and make the rest of the day very difficult to complete in a positive manner. We also implemented this limited screen time because it keeps us all accountable. It's easy for me to get sucked into computer time too. This allows us to have meaningful family time but still indulge in technology.<br />
<br />
As we have decided to jump into cell phones for our tween, we have decided that this limited time should still be observed. I have actually found this to be more difficult for me because I want to set a good example for my kids. There are no cell phones, TV, computers or anything allowed at the dinner table, family events (there are a few exceptions to this), or any other time we have designated as a no technology time.<br />
<br />
<h1>
<strong>Start with a Basic Phone</strong></h1>
<div>
<strong><br /></strong></div>
There is no real need for any child to have a super expensive or fancy phone. Children who are learning responsibilities of these items will probably run into a few bumps of either breaking or losing their phones. A $40 <a href="https://www.cricketwireless.com/">Cricket</a> phone (which is what we chose for our son) is much easier to fix or replace than an $800 smart phone.<br />
<br />
The cheap plans also make this a great option. We are paying $25/month (we enrolled in Auto pay and received a $5/month discount) We are holding our son accountable for the majority of his cell phone bill. He will pay us $5/week from his weekly allowance and he is responsible for repairing and damage or replacing the phone if it is necessary. It wouldn't be very likely he could replace an iPHONE or Galaxy phone. and it defeats the purpose of him learning how to responsible if we did it for him.<br />
<br />
<h1>
<strong>Sign a Cell Phone Contract</strong></h1>
<div>
<strong><br /></strong></div>
This may seem a little weird but it is best to lay down all the ground rules and hold your child to a high standard. If you set the bar high it will stay there, if you set it low and try to move it, BAD THINGS WILL HAPPEN! Changing standards, especially for children, can be extremely difficult for children. I am treading this line very carefully because I am setting the tone for my Autistic son.<br />
There are several options and some really cute creative Cell Phone Contracts you can find through Pinterest but if you are interested in the one I used click the <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/476607573061435297/">link here</a>. It makes it perfectly clear that having a cell phone is a privilege and not something he is entitled to own.<br />
<br />
<h1>
<strong>Install Family Link</strong></h1>
<div>
<strong><br /></strong></div>
<a href="https://families.google.com/familylink/">Family Link</a> is a Google application that allows you to manage your child's applications, watch their screen time, set a device bedtime and gives GPS location of the device. <a href="https://families.google.com/familylink/">Family link </a>allows you to create a family profile so you can watch multiple devices and children. The application is FREE and really gives you the control you need to make sure your child is being responsible and safe. There are a few other similar applications that offer services for a small fee too when they become necessary. Although I am a huge fan of Family Link, I am sad to say they only offer services until your child turns 13.<br />
<br />
<strong><em>"When your child turns 13 (or the minimum age required for the creation of a Google Account absent parental consent in your country), they are eligible to manage their account on their own. If your child chooses to manage their Google Account, you will no longer have access to, or be able to exercise control over, it with Family Link. Before your child becomes eligible to manage their own Google Account, we will notify you and your child."</em></strong><br />
<strong><em><br /></em></strong>
I am hoping that utilizing these standards will allow my children to learn the proper rules of phone etiquette and learn how to be responsible with technology. Even though this is a big step, I think it is what's best for our family right now. As my kids grow older, technology is becoming increasingly important for continued education and job security. It is better that we teach our children how to respect this technology than to allow them to wander the technology world alone.<br />
<br />
This was originally posted on my other blog <a href="http://jessicaannkong.com/">JessicaAnnKong.com</a> <a href="http://jessicaannkong.com/2018/05/confessions-of-an-anti-cell-phone-parent/" target="_blank">here</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-51737004423145168062018-01-31T21:25:00.000-07:002018-01-31T21:25:09.859-07:00How to Celebrate Saint Valentine's Day on Ash Wednesday<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJBfTjPLhDKSe6LRizhFNH7rQdLibYmYKFRlgX7K1Fx-xZ-LxLJdinJt_1pKZAzg51vklCUeKq4mRIgOhawMuxteGrK03tBpraq7ikUfLWx8dAoTmbq16ZOmAMWIiX_bziRaYsPb2tZ64/s1600/IMG_20180131_143000.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="534" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJBfTjPLhDKSe6LRizhFNH7rQdLibYmYKFRlgX7K1Fx-xZ-LxLJdinJt_1pKZAzg51vklCUeKq4mRIgOhawMuxteGrK03tBpraq7ikUfLWx8dAoTmbq16ZOmAMWIiX_bziRaYsPb2tZ64/s640/IMG_20180131_143000.png" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJBfTjPLhDKSe6LRizhFNH7rQdLibYmYKFRlgX7K1Fx-xZ-LxLJdinJt_1pKZAzg51vklCUeKq4mRIgOhawMuxteGrK03tBpraq7ikUfLWx8dAoTmbq16ZOmAMWIiX_bziRaYsPb2tZ64/s1600/IMG_20180131_143000.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
The Lenten Season is around the corner and this year with some interesting twists. To begin, the Lenten season's official start is Ash Wednesday and it coincides with another feast day that everyone enjoys to celebrate... Saint Valentine's Day. <br />
<br />
These two celebrations are an interesting combination because Ash Wednesday is a day of fasting, abstinence and penance while Valentine's Day has become a day to indulge and celebrate. Combining traditions from each day may seem impossible but it's not!<br />
<br />
Roses, chocolates and special trinkets have become the normal way to enjoy the feast day of Saint Valentine. Oddly enough, Saint Valentine was a priest that was sentenced to death because he married Christian couples and associating with the people that were being persecuted under Claudius so the association of couples, love and marriage are due to Saint Valentine's patronage as a Saint. The popularity of the color red on this day was because it represents martyrs. <br />
<br />
<br />
The entire holiday has lost it's real value and most don't know about the history behind February 14th. Taking a real look into the true meaning of Valentine's Day and incorporating it with the customs of Ash Wednesday will make it a more meaningful holiday.<br />
<br />
Here are some ways to celebrate both liturgical days together:<br />
<br />
<h3>
<i>1. Attend Mass</i></h3>
<i>This suggestion isn't really a suggestion. Ash Wednesday is a Holy Day of Obligation and Saint Valentine was martyred in honor of our faith. Spending time with those you love with God is the best place to spend your Valentine's Day.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<h3>
<i>2. Give SAINT Valentine Cards</i></h3>
<i>Valentine Cards are a fun tradition but they don't embrace the Saint that is being honored on his feast day. Make sure to give these Saint Valentine cards to not only friends and family but those that are forgotten on days like this. Visit a Nursing home, the imprisoned or the sick. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<h3>
<i>3. Give Gifts</i></h3>
<i>Lavish gifts are sometimes exchanged to impress our Valentines. Instead of giving jewelry or gadgets, why not give Lenten devotionals, monetary donations or the gift of your time to help those in need? Burying the Alleluia on Ash Wednesday is one of my family's favorite traditions. You could expand this tradition by wrapping up your Easter decorations and open it for Easter Sunday.</i><br />
<br />
<h3>
<i>4. Don't forget the Chocolates</i></h3>
<i>Lent is a time of preparation for the Easter Season. Although you can't indulge in sweets on Ash Wednesday, begin your preparations for your Easter celebrations by saving those chocolates. Besides you can always capitalize on those Valentine candies going on sale the next day too!</i><br />
<br />
<h3>
<i>5. Wear Red</i></h3>
<i>Red is the color of martyrs and love. Although the Lenten season color is purple, red is the color of the Triduum as well. Celebrate love, sacrifice and Lent by rocking your favorite red outfit to Mass and work.</i><br />
<br />
<h3>
<i>6. Make a Special Dinner</i></h3>
<i>Ash Wednesday is a day of fasting and abstinence while it is popular to share a special meal with your love on the feast of Saint Valentine. During a fast you are allowed one regular meal with two smaller meals that do not equal a regular meal. Abstinence means no meat but you can enjoy seafood. Make your regular meal count. You may not be able to indulge in wine and cocktails but a delicious sparkling water will quench your thirst and adds that little something extra to your dinner just as well.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTbQdSzYspDvijQ__dqlCrfHO8i8sVY2uk8rWkOSRDcvNhlWvbVu3vRU8ObOdNJOp8WK72wYkWpXksSj4wXlXT-dUOfjwaHvGz-H_3vTMbHEcqjLVgZSKu8YhzdvN6tUe78fbEUFKuqP4/s1600/IMG_20180131_155528.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTbQdSzYspDvijQ__dqlCrfHO8i8sVY2uk8rWkOSRDcvNhlWvbVu3vRU8ObOdNJOp8WK72wYkWpXksSj4wXlXT-dUOfjwaHvGz-H_3vTMbHEcqjLVgZSKu8YhzdvN6tUe78fbEUFKuqP4/s640/IMG_20180131_155528.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The combination of Saint Valentine's Day and Ash Wednesday may make you feel like you have to chose one or the other to celebrate. I hope this has helped to illuminate the importance of combining these liturgical celebrations and reflecting on the real meaning behind the celebrations. I hope this is a blessed Lenten season and you enjoy your Ash Wednesday and Saint Valentine's Day this year.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-83831878545956836722017-11-29T23:45:00.000-07:002017-11-30T11:47:54.167-07:00The Seven Sacraments for Children Coloring Pages<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcbfjxt-HugPhiR4zEKbuNLkasTF8sUDRJg4fL3WilVSg3K_i2zavf5a2HsZ6znsarsdKU7BN9P_UlwVI_tAK86LJqOkChrB0LtfOEUyRQE9Y1hHTy-WrrcpBuyy2TO8biuC59uDRJ-yA/s1600/The+Seven+Sacraments.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcbfjxt-HugPhiR4zEKbuNLkasTF8sUDRJg4fL3WilVSg3K_i2zavf5a2HsZ6znsarsdKU7BN9P_UlwVI_tAK86LJqOkChrB0LtfOEUyRQE9Y1hHTy-WrrcpBuyy2TO8biuC59uDRJ-yA/s640/The+Seven+Sacraments.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The Catholic faith is rich with prayers, devotions, traditions, sacramentals and many other elements that can be used to grow your relationship with God. The seven sacraments are pillars of the Catholic faith and mark extraordinary portions of our life. It is essential to treat these life-altering milestones as such, especially if we expect our children to understand the significance of each sacrament and it's meaning. My goal as a parent is to make sure I have immersed my children in as much of their Catholic faith as possible, in hopes that they will love it as much as I do.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="text-align: center;"><i><b>"The Sacraments are the salvation of those who use them rightly, and the damnation of those who misuse them."</b></i></span><br style="text-align: center;" /><span style="text-align: center;"><b>- St. Augustine </b></span></blockquote>
How do we accomplish such a huge responsibility? First, we must make sure that we ourselves are well versed in the information that we are teaching to the younger generations. Do you know much about the sacraments?<br />
<br />
Here are a few quick basics:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>There are seven sacraments; Baptism, Penance, Eucharist, Confirmation, Anointing of the Sick, Marriage and Holy Orders.</li>
<li>These seven sacraments are broken down into several different types; The Sacraments of Initiation, The Sacraments of Healing and the Sacraments of Service.</li>
<li>The Sacraments of Initiation are Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation.</li>
<li>The Sacraments of Healing are Penance and Anointing of the Sick.</li>
<li>The Sacraments of Service are Marriage and Holy Orders. </li>
</ul>
Although I said this was some "basic" information. How basic does this sound to children? Probably not very relatable and not very intriguing to young minds... yet.<br />
<br />
Children retain more knowledge if they are able to play and create memories. Most of us were baptized as babies and the sacraments of Penance and Eucharist are given to us early in the elementary years. That is three out of six of the sacraments you are able to receive by the time you are 8/9 years old!<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><b>I state three out of six sacraments because you cannot receive Holy Orders and be married as well. There are exceptions, of course, but that is a little much to explain to children in this age group.</b></i></blockquote>
Illustrating the importance of these milestones can be difficult and hard to comprehend for young children if you are not able to portray these sacraments in an easy to comprehend state. I was contacted by my friend, Sherry, from <a href="https://www.personalcreations.com/blog/seven-sacraments?" target="_blank">Personal Creations</a> about sharing some wonderful and captivating <a href="https://www.personalcreations.com/blog/seven-sacraments?" target="_blank">Sacrament Coloring Pages</a> that can assist the teaching of the seven sacraments to children and make them more fun to learn!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJSLq6T02v4OqdYBFh1EQoXhaLIfcCaAXERHFMWlX6a6Xb-gnSW9BMV8UEmAHA_N8dxSTvNAaVGs0JChFfssNsJ6_H-U36fq3OX1VQR-Rb1RyyPZb3PQp666adBkjG1DS8tsBg4orYJso/s1600/20171129_174549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJSLq6T02v4OqdYBFh1EQoXhaLIfcCaAXERHFMWlX6a6Xb-gnSW9BMV8UEmAHA_N8dxSTvNAaVGs0JChFfssNsJ6_H-U36fq3OX1VQR-Rb1RyyPZb3PQp666adBkjG1DS8tsBg4orYJso/s640/20171129_174549.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ysYD4BTgs7b9sm6vr9GduTKXbvmYwBUQlbdK7PwPWuyxCiJgpPcPeR_fZelk7L7PMCvfXLDanF8CBkrzvkIqr4MveAkwA_iadKy_yf4_KD1OxHNKaay9VeyIt0w-TRehm3GtiEldWuk/s1600/20171129_174516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ysYD4BTgs7b9sm6vr9GduTKXbvmYwBUQlbdK7PwPWuyxCiJgpPcPeR_fZelk7L7PMCvfXLDanF8CBkrzvkIqr4MveAkwA_iadKy_yf4_KD1OxHNKaay9VeyIt0w-TRehm3GtiEldWuk/s640/20171129_174516.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Sherry has said...<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><b>"I hope these coloring pages give joy to families and teach children the milestones of Christian life. From baptism to marriage, these coloring pages are a delightful way to celebrate the many stages of a spiritual journey with God."</b></i></blockquote>
I was thrilled to be able to have a quick lesson with my boys on the Sacraments and share these coloring pages with them. I can honestly say that they both enjoyed it! I have a seven year old and a ten year old. They had requested I join in the coloring fun since we do have nights where we pull out all the art supplies and have "craft nights". <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCdkBGZkZb3l83B4Oqw-nWVcfCUFrvaJSkXAY73dcOu-tlErB1yIMgxwFmfr9ccvH6137xKuF-ii9VpTVnOTsZTg5DjtmhVQrhx6FZfqAY3KWWanLStft9ueM23Rfhg8hfhW_MxvETdIw/s1600/20171129_192004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCdkBGZkZb3l83B4Oqw-nWVcfCUFrvaJSkXAY73dcOu-tlErB1yIMgxwFmfr9ccvH6137xKuF-ii9VpTVnOTsZTg5DjtmhVQrhx6FZfqAY3KWWanLStft9ueM23Rfhg8hfhW_MxvETdIw/s640/20171129_192004.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
My youngest son loves games! He had asked me if we could use these pictures to make a game. I told him, "Of course we can!" We created a Matching Sacrament Game by printing two of the coloring pages that summarized all of the sacraments and cutting them out. We now have a Liturgical Game that my son is very proud of because he did all the coloring and cutting and I have a game to play with him that will teach him about the sacraments. Definitely a Win, Win!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNHCOv3ENOR-0R6Vw9QzIdoa2Q8cNDhqh5r9G_ZoQKHd-VGvsR1-3qZxka3Rb3wlHEQqaiE9YGGB9WOugcwXpVkmHFFi35AWQyfPlpTfIML7NzbwriPISMYVXQ9zp2Z3d0OLC1OeiJHLc/s1600/20171129_192016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNHCOv3ENOR-0R6Vw9QzIdoa2Q8cNDhqh5r9G_ZoQKHd-VGvsR1-3qZxka3Rb3wlHEQqaiE9YGGB9WOugcwXpVkmHFFi35AWQyfPlpTfIML7NzbwriPISMYVXQ9zp2Z3d0OLC1OeiJHLc/s640/20171129_192016.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
My older son is more of a perfectionist and insisted that he make the pages look as life like as possible. He had to use the perfect combination of crayons, markers and colored pencils to get each page looking like a masterpiece.<br />
<br />
Having an activity that was intriguing to both my children was such a blessing. They are at those ages where it can be difficult to find something that reaches them at their own levels and yet keeps them on the same task. It turned into a nice family evening.<br />
<br />
Advent is just a few short days away. What a great way to anticipate the Christ child's birth by learning more about the seven sacraments with your families. If you are interested in these beautiful Sacrament Coloring pages, please check out the link to <a href="https://www.personalcreations.com/blog/seven-sacraments?" target="_blank">Personal Creations here</a>. These wonderful coloring pages will help establish a great love for the sacraments in your children and help explain some of the more difficult aspects of the sacraments in a child's way.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-42385191409697840632017-07-19T20:51:00.000-07:002017-07-19T20:51:26.131-07:00Three Ways To Nurture Your Catholic Faith in Your Children<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnXcFTlzO9EiSfqDQ3Nyv8CsGC1wXNL_FmegIMVV5b_gKhekEXnmb3MF97O8KDvvcB63EJYgqXvd9JMomz5JMIFae13wqwOHrn0geVF_qs_wm4fZQPClG9o1yNdsVGEklRAj39gtl2qmk/s1600/picMonkey0.732753777341503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnXcFTlzO9EiSfqDQ3Nyv8CsGC1wXNL_FmegIMVV5b_gKhekEXnmb3MF97O8KDvvcB63EJYgqXvd9JMomz5JMIFae13wqwOHrn0geVF_qs_wm4fZQPClG9o1yNdsVGEklRAj39gtl2qmk/s400/picMonkey0.732753777341503.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
In this day and age of technology and instant access, there is much to compete with in our children's lives. It can be more than difficult to connect and create strong enough bonds to our faith and family without added distractions. I truly believe that knowledge is power and understanding your obstacles is the best way to create a plan to succeed in any endeavor.<br />
<br />
The endeavor that is most important to me right now is helping to cultivate a love for God, family and the Catholic Church in my children. This has been a topic of interest for me for quite awhile actually. I am a cradle Catholic. Born and raised to go to Confession on Saturday afternoon, attend Mass on Sunday mornings and participate in Catechism classes and Youth groups as needed. That was the recipe to create a love for my Catholic faith. I am not knocking this recipe because obviously something went right. I am now thirty years old, still Catholic and attempting to nourish a faith in my own children and family. I am here to share what I have learned through many trials, more errors and things that I still do today.<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Find a Parish to call Home</h2>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY52m7sdyNP1azJpG7Cei8zIS7zYr0TXTLncBP-YFYU-bCY1yr1rFT_88gK3vD6bDXNhJyqRJOoKfoVuL101YmnMWaoZmFnoCSQRFgvTTrB5unj-aY4sOIr4lYqofXKtHWJ_VxruQ0aOA/s1600/FB_IMG_1436841495752.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY52m7sdyNP1azJpG7Cei8zIS7zYr0TXTLncBP-YFYU-bCY1yr1rFT_88gK3vD6bDXNhJyqRJOoKfoVuL101YmnMWaoZmFnoCSQRFgvTTrB5unj-aY4sOIr4lYqofXKtHWJ_VxruQ0aOA/s640/FB_IMG_1436841495752.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This is probably one of the most important things you can do to establish a real relationship with your children and their faith. A Parish is not just the church you attend on Sundays or other Holy days of Obligation. A Parish is a second family. They will be present for some of the biggest milestones and memories of your family! Baptisms, First Communion, First Reconciliation, Confirmation, Marriage and even funerals. They will be there when you need help, whether prayers or other types of assistance.<br />
<br />
Create relationships with the people sitting with you in the pews and go say hello to your priest. My children have always been enamored by the priests of our parish. They love to give hugs, high-fives and always smile when they see people from our parish around town. My oldest son's teacher is even in attendance at our parish!<br />
<br />
Another important aspect of being in a Parish is participation. Sign up to attend bible studies and other Parish hosted events as a family. Allow your children to make friends with kids at Religious Education and youth groups. Embrace what your Parish can offer your family but remember that it is also important to volunteer and give back as well. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Decorate Your Catholic Home </h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuknEVseBfbREXOPMYX0tnI6dp3aDoatyjVTmiww4S0Wod7cjt1cin3CUkwoOSEfWIYYYVYvVhjY3iV0TvAd3BGKr5x3-rsispZO7TY6RwhTekSaC6i4dBdqwCv4W-5gr8Zykz1gsXlec/s1600/IMG_3315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuknEVseBfbREXOPMYX0tnI6dp3aDoatyjVTmiww4S0Wod7cjt1cin3CUkwoOSEfWIYYYVYvVhjY3iV0TvAd3BGKr5x3-rsispZO7TY6RwhTekSaC6i4dBdqwCv4W-5gr8Zykz1gsXlec/s640/IMG_3315.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
As a child, I remember the beautiful gold display that had the Ten Commandments engraved above my dining room table. The nostalgia of childhood rings so strong when you become an adult. Bring your faith into your home and allow it to have a place in your everyday life, not just Sunday worship.<br />
<br />
The Liturgical season is full of distinct colors, sounds and beautiful scenes that can be displayed in your home. Add Holy Water Fonts, Crucifixes and display portraits of Our Lady and the Holy Family. I have incorporated a Home Altar that we update with the Liturgical colors, special Saints of the season, candles and rosaries.<br />
<br />
The more these special reminders of our Catholic faith become apart of your families everyday life, the harder it will be for your children to go out into the world without them. These additions to your home can also be passed along to your family as they grow. There was a gorgeous statue of Mother Mary that was my Grandmother Mary's that my dad gave to me when I had children. It was something that I was able to bring with me from my childhood and I hope to pass along to my children one day as well.<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Create Happy Memories and Traditions</h2>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMdVM4DfC5_HFGCZIqKMw_-j_Bkn8uWXGXZEp2HTYIthpoWZ6l_8LMHpVm1bodwG86e8nKxl-aZsj87Nc-P3NjA6eD9OcLrlODMRQBsPbVQLJD1bX8NmuEqXzipuFjJ6oQKcxdDHaJ3VA/s1600/IMG_3314.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMdVM4DfC5_HFGCZIqKMw_-j_Bkn8uWXGXZEp2HTYIthpoWZ6l_8LMHpVm1bodwG86e8nKxl-aZsj87Nc-P3NjA6eD9OcLrlODMRQBsPbVQLJD1bX8NmuEqXzipuFjJ6oQKcxdDHaJ3VA/s400/IMG_3314.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This suggestion is probably the most important. Creating memories that are warm, happy and include our faith will be what our children think about in times of turmoil. The Liturgical year makes this super easy! Celebrate anniversaries of your children's Sacraments and Saint's feast days. Make new traditions with baking special dinners or desserts on certain days. There are several Liturgical seasons to embrace and each month is dedicated to a special devotion too. I include those days on our family calendar so everyone can see it. My children have started to remind me about certain activities or movies we are suppose to watch on certain feast days now! We incorporate special blessings and prayers. Create candles, crafts and so much more. Make the Catholic faith come to life.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you need some ideas for ways to incorporate faith into your everyday activities, check out some of my ideas under the <a href="https://pinotnoirandprayers.blogspot.com/p/liturgical-year.html" target="_blank">Liturgical Celebrations</a> tab. Let your creativity free! You will be creating memories for yourself and your children! The positive association between happiness, love and faith will be something that your family can tangibly look back on as they grow older and venture into the world. My favorite thing about my faith is that we Catholics know how to celebrate! We do have many traditional ways you can incorporate but do not let that interfere with trying out some new family traditions that will be passed on to your children's children.<br />
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuBQmMc3IAfr91OghUDuq_PylAEKzfnC3WCRyp5C67o9ufsdnw4XqnBhEn-RBbF7TkM_CPbmbIfQgw_sCSogqRq6jkk0HkL6K6I4S_eK7K8r11q1AHohBMOGKkIkXYFsTRN4cLZVfNvNk/s1600/20046527_10211372231839147_7621677879469952136_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="403" data-original-width="480" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuBQmMc3IAfr91OghUDuq_PylAEKzfnC3WCRyp5C67o9ufsdnw4XqnBhEn-RBbF7TkM_CPbmbIfQgw_sCSogqRq6jkk0HkL6K6I4S_eK7K8r11q1AHohBMOGKkIkXYFsTRN4cLZVfNvNk/s400/20046527_10211372231839147_7621677879469952136_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Interested in more ideas to keep your children Catholic? Checkout this month's <a href="http://reconciledtoyou.com/cwbn-blog-hop.html" target="_blank">CWBN Blog Hop</a> with several articles written on this very intriguing and important topic. Several of my friend's from Everyday Ediths are contributing to this Blog Hop as well.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-62742642734462307892017-07-15T21:56:00.000-07:002017-07-15T21:56:09.645-07:00Visiting the Relics of Saint Padre Pio<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQSiSh3iTnTJpRiNEmJO4I7CSx9Y3Kl7TjAn55xM_Jpi5jsbHSGBTElhjiSSV8RNKyqTvHRf9c7qH304p6wBTBfcm94KY0lsAyw24KX6DpxC0rSi4d7BkpUbc7dMItXDE5b7lcoC5Hgyw/s1600/Visiting+the+Relics+of.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQSiSh3iTnTJpRiNEmJO4I7CSx9Y3Kl7TjAn55xM_Jpi5jsbHSGBTElhjiSSV8RNKyqTvHRf9c7qH304p6wBTBfcm94KY0lsAyw24KX6DpxC0rSi4d7BkpUbc7dMItXDE5b7lcoC5Hgyw/s640/Visiting+the+Relics+of.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
A pilgrimage is a journey to a place associated with someone or something well known respected. So I guess you could say I was blessed to have the opportunity to go on a pilgrimage to the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Denver to see the Relics of Saint Padre Pio this past May.<br />
<br />
I was more excited than words can express to go out to this Basilica because last year I created the <a href="https://pinotnoirandprayers.blogspot.com/2016/07/ultimate-guide-to-holy-places-in.html" target="_blank">Ultimate Guide to Holy Places in Colorado</a> and this particular location made the list! It has been on my Bucket list ever since! Let me tell you that I was not disappointed! The Basilica was absolutely gorgeous and being blessed to be in the presence of Saint Padre Pio's relics was amazing.<br />
<br />
In case you weren't aware, a relic is a part of a deceased holy person's body or belongings kept as an object of reverence.There are several different relics that are available to visit in Italy of Saint Padre Pio. His blood, glove and hair were on display when I went to visit at the Basilica. You can see more up close pictures below:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpb1CRw-k3qubx3cXbGj3_yIjljtthiO1ucsfOzmW5T-ITzlavqzWhmXbV7jQlTyoCxMKXJCXf5YANXF2j9J1x4EygLPA7qeHhMMWNWyti2Im8hYp9FQxExutBr4PbdktfiZxQY8VI9yk/s1600/20170510_132058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpb1CRw-k3qubx3cXbGj3_yIjljtthiO1ucsfOzmW5T-ITzlavqzWhmXbV7jQlTyoCxMKXJCXf5YANXF2j9J1x4EygLPA7qeHhMMWNWyti2Im8hYp9FQxExutBr4PbdktfiZxQY8VI9yk/s640/20170510_132058.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The glove, blood and hair of Padre Pio are encased to protect them while on display to the public. First class relics are the body or remnants of the body of a saint, such as blood, bone or flesh. Second class relics are something that a saint personally owned, like Padre Pio's glove. Third class relics are those items that a saint touched or that have been touched to a first, second, or another third class relic of a saint. Something VERY important to remember in regard to third class relics is that the touch does not have to be a direct touch to the relic itself. Merely touching the container that holds the relic is sufficient to bring about that transformation and effect a new relic.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
“Moses took Joseph’s bones with him; because he had adjured the children of Israel, saying: God shall visit you if you carry my bones from hence with you.”<br />Exodus 13:19</h3>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmOcbArBg0cqlNVDbyySyyo4GQ91ruxBvpPvCjJrTsnq7uD-t2QSh_PLAS_emsKONinvYK-kbmqhv4gJmvFCXl5fLDGL_VdrKtUMkhnVpPVQUq5SyviF9fWbvgdwGNJzvrhw662efzUIM/s1600/20170510_132044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmOcbArBg0cqlNVDbyySyyo4GQ91ruxBvpPvCjJrTsnq7uD-t2QSh_PLAS_emsKONinvYK-kbmqhv4gJmvFCXl5fLDGL_VdrKtUMkhnVpPVQUq5SyviF9fWbvgdwGNJzvrhw662efzUIM/s640/20170510_132044.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you don't know much about Padre Pio, I highly suggest doing some reading about him. He is an inspiration to many. Padre Pio was born in Italy in 1887. He was one of eight children and had visions of angels and demons as early as five years old! He grew up and became a priest that was sought out due to his healing prayers and loving heart. There are many stories that are shared about this wonderful man regarding the devil, bi-location, stigmata, levitation and much more.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
During my pilgrimage, I attended Mass and was truly touched by the reverence that was shown to both the Eucharist and the relics. During Communion I witnessed a man get on his knees and bow before the Eucharist. He then received the Eucharist while still on his knees. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was beyond soul-gripping. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I think this image will be one that I will never forget. The love and respect shown by this man to Our Lord touched me in such a way that I nearly cried. It lit a fire in me to do a better job of showing reverence while I am in Mass and in the presence of the Eucharist. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
People also waited in a line that stretched around the Basilica to stand before the Relics of Saint Padre Pio. The awe and wonder that filled the air was magical. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjER4hBiPIFpFa6HGAY8Zuwbz4aAz0nAN4PmsouHPOKnF25oGegyhGTZpwjjH0W8hSHsbnpWHD18pgydurTuGeppibBqDApVqkCRAiI3aQvJmRcqf99VRWGFC31qng9RoaTYWDIDCLk19E/s1600/20170510_132844.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjER4hBiPIFpFa6HGAY8Zuwbz4aAz0nAN4PmsouHPOKnF25oGegyhGTZpwjjH0W8hSHsbnpWHD18pgydurTuGeppibBqDApVqkCRAiI3aQvJmRcqf99VRWGFC31qng9RoaTYWDIDCLk19E/s640/20170510_132844.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I won this beautiful rosary during a giveaway hosted by my friend, Mrs. Andy, who writes over at <a href="http://mrsandyanchored.com/" target="_blank">Anchored by Faith</a> and with me at <a href="https://everydayediths.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Everyday Ediths</a>. I brought this rosary with me and pressed it against the relics. Although there was glass between the relics and this rosary I know that there was a special blessing that was transferred and I will forever have this as a way to remember my pilgrimage and the special experience of being in the presence of Saint Padre Pio's relics. I created a third class relic. There were many visitors that did this same thing with crucifixes, rosaries and other religious emblems.<br />
<br />
The Relics were being moved across the United States over the next few months. Have you had the pleasure of checking out these relics? Or the relics of another saint? If so, I would love to hear all about it! Interested in more information about Padre Pio? Check out <a href="http://www.padrepio.catholicwebservices.com/ENGLISH/ENGLISH_index.htm" target="_blank">Saint Pio of Pietrelcina</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-13304885259579585742017-04-26T05:00:00.000-07:002017-04-26T05:00:05.870-07:00Pio Prints: Set the World on Fire<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo24D5m6Z-s55HQKLbawXLJiwpVo0HG6r01QPhi5bM2r-ZKXRs2GDpEapnqt5tOs4Urwgo8BYTlYdU-QzUixKvhqvScYXPe9o9ak4vO0-ONre1GbLZUao4HdFtt0vn4JZeo2G9G1niMus/s1600/18010445_1344610008919022_4925364786864954043_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo24D5m6Z-s55HQKLbawXLJiwpVo0HG6r01QPhi5bM2r-ZKXRs2GDpEapnqt5tOs4Urwgo8BYTlYdU-QzUixKvhqvScYXPe9o9ak4vO0-ONre1GbLZUao4HdFtt0vn4JZeo2G9G1niMus/s400/18010445_1344610008919022_4925364786864954043_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<i><b>I received a workout tank top from <a href="https://www.pioprints.com/product-category/products/clothing/" target="_blank">Pio Prints</a> in exchange for an honest review of their product. The opinions shared in this post are my own.</b></i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As a mommy, I wear a lot of hats. Chef, accountant, secretary, chauffeur and many more. Wearing all these hats can be difficult but is necessary. I am a mommy and taking care of my family is the biggest blessing the Lord has given me. It is easy to get lost in the responsibilities that come with raising a family. Since we are responsible for so much, it is important that we care for ourselves: mind, body and soul. How can we help raise the future if we are not mindful of the present?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Scripture says:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>"Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies."<br />1 Corinthians 6:19-20</i></h3>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br />"For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come."<br />1 Timothy 4:8</i></h3>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
Working out is a great way to treat yourself right. It keeps your body working properly, helps eliminate stress and you can experience some of those amazing "feel good" endorphins that are released when you work out. I think the BEST part of working out is the clothing! I love wearing clothes that are comfortable and allow me to move. There are many jokes about people who rock their workout clothes all day long but if you have found something that is comfortable and doesn't get in your way while you are setting the world on fire, I say wear it for as long as you like.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.pioprints.com/product-category/products/clothing/" target="_blank">Pio Prints</a> clothing materials are extremely soft and do not "cling" to you while you are moving. The material allows air to circulate and fits nicely. I love that I can wear this to run, lift weights or even to my son's football or soccer games so I can keep up with the team on the field and take pictures. It is versatile and high quality. The "Set the World on Fire" tank has already become my most favorite workout shirt. My husband has been warned because I will definitely be placing an order for some more of these tanks soon!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDyppgoCLaaM8sPFoB85qomWGql3M_ETxadCp_VtY-SqSkCpojl_yYdqEY9PEiZXOzpA-90lobrJWTJBP5sWwDzO_yIIab2co3cYFUCPdkHbMLDWcn7GUBU8gtt-k2VSYNj9gfdr_PfiM/s1600/15965304_1254053504641340_6731275867481116012_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDyppgoCLaaM8sPFoB85qomWGql3M_ETxadCp_VtY-SqSkCpojl_yYdqEY9PEiZXOzpA-90lobrJWTJBP5sWwDzO_yIIab2co3cYFUCPdkHbMLDWcn7GUBU8gtt-k2VSYNj9gfdr_PfiM/s400/15965304_1254053504641340_6731275867481116012_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Inspiration comes in many different forms and these shirts are not only motivational to those who are working out but they also help to spread our beautiful Catholic faith. These could make the perfect gift to share with a First Communicant or someone newly Confirmed. How about just getting one for yourself so you can rock one of your favorite saint's quotes? <a href="https://www.pioprints.com/product-category/clothing/" target="_blank">Pio Prints</a> offers different styles, sizes and a large assortment of quotes to chose. Whatever your reason, you should try this wonderful clothing out at least once. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you decide to try out this amazing clothing line, I would love to hear about how much you love it too! Share your #PioPrintSelfie with me. Tag <a href="https://www.instagram.com/pinotnoirprayers/?hl=en" target="_blank">@PinotNoirPrayers</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/pioprints/?hl=en" target="_blank">@PioPrints</a> on Instagram! It's only fair that I share my #PioPrintSelfie with you too...so here's mine!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbjOSmhNwjnJrgFDNgSg1uXP-saJ8jqantkk5Aw8bO7cfaMPY9sUm8T0WgC58PlQv5KX0YhFvUXd3zDQfzeZvhDE-T6fXn2kgaDZqp4y9rhUPkDoSxpuYMUv0QYBjczxur1kJkuRVJGR8/s1600/20170423_174014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbjOSmhNwjnJrgFDNgSg1uXP-saJ8jqantkk5Aw8bO7cfaMPY9sUm8T0WgC58PlQv5KX0YhFvUXd3zDQfzeZvhDE-T6fXn2kgaDZqp4y9rhUPkDoSxpuYMUv0QYBjczxur1kJkuRVJGR8/s640/20170423_174014.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
God Bless!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-32120586818412493632017-04-25T21:05:00.003-07:002017-04-25T21:05:59.808-07:00#WorthRevisit: Easter Calendar CraftThe Easter season is underway and there are so many fun and exciting things to do with your families to bring it to life! How are you celebrating the 50 days leading up to Pentacost?<br />
<br />
Here is my <a href="http://reconciledtoyou.com/blog/worthrevisit-trusting-gods-plan-for-my-good" target="_blank">#WorthRevisit</a> with<a href="http://reconciledtoyou.com/blog/worthrevisit-trusting-gods-plan-for-my-good" target="_blank"> Reconciled to You</a> and <a href="https://theologyisaverb.com/" target="_blank">Theology is a Verb</a>.<br />
<br />
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Pacifico; font-size: 30px; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;">
Easter Calendar Craft</h3>
<div class="post-header" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.6px; line-height: 1.6; margin: 0px 0px 1.5em;">
<div class="post-header-line-1">
</div>
</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-5183361237632790114" itemprop="description articleBody" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 1.4; position: relative; width: 662px;">
Decorating my home with the colors and smells of the season make me so happy! Easter is definitely one of my favorites because it symbolizes a renewal and cleanness that extends throughout the house. I also love that we have 40 days of fasting, praying and alms giving that ends with <u style="font-weight: bold;">50 days of Easter celebrations!</u> To aid in our celebrating I created an Easter calendar that has something fun for the family to do everyday during the Easter Season.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-5183361237632790114" itemprop="description articleBody" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 1.4; position: relative; width: 662px;">
<br /><h3>
Here are the 50 ideas I came up with for this Easter Season, Day 1 starts on Sunday, March 27, 2016:</h3>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>1. Easter: Hang the Alleluia Banner and have a Resurrection Party</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>2. Dyngus Day: Slovakian tradition on Easter Monday to celebrate with a water fight (snowball fight here because it is still SNOWING!)</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>3. Make some White Hot Chocolate</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>4. National Take a Walk in a Park Day: Let's go to a local park we have never been to before</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>5. National Agricultural Day: Let's checkout a local farmer's market today</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>6. April Fools Day: Dress up in something silly</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>7. International Childrens' Book Day: Go to the Library and find some good books to read together</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>8. Divine Mercy Sunday: Celebrate with the Divine Mercy Chaplet at 3pm and color a Divine Mercy Coloring page</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>9. Annunciation of the Lord: also known as "Waffle Day"! Have a Blueberry Waffle breakfast</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>10. Feast of Vincent Ferrer and National Deep Dish Pizza Day: St. Vincent is the patron saint of brick makers and construction workers so let's build something with Legos and enjoy some pizza!</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>11. Family Game Night</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>12. Feast of Saint John the Baptist de la Salle and National Beer Day: Bring your teacher a special treat and drink a Root beer in honor of today</i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>13. No School Today! Mommy and Sons Date :) </i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>14. National Chicken Little Awareness Day: Read and watch the story of Chicken Little</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>15. National Siblings Day: Do something EXTRA nice for your siblings!</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>16. National Pet Day: Get Lemon and Felix a special treat like catnip to celebrate them today</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>17. Scrabble Day: Tomorrow is actually National Scrabble Day but we have something extra special planned for tomorrow, so lets play it today.</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>18. Friends and Family Night at Daddy's Restaurant</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>19. National Pecan Day: Enjoy some pecan ice cream </i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>20. Movie Night complete with candy, popcorn and soda</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>21. Historical Feast of Saint Bernadette: Watch Saint Bernadette cartoon and enjoy a jello "spring" snack </i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>22. National Haiku Poetry Day: Let's write a beautiful poem together</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>23. The Boston Marathon is today! Go on a Family Run</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>24. Breakfast for Dinner tonight</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>25. Feast of Saint Bueno: He is the patron saint of sick children. Let's bring a special treat to the children at Memorial Hospital</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>26. Ice Cream Sundays for dessert tonight</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>27. Earth</i><i> Day: Let's plant some flowers on our patio and watch the Lorax!</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>28. Feast of Saint George the Dragon Slayer: Enjoy some fish and chips while we learn about this really amazing Saint</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>29. Let's go to the zoo today. Don't forget your zoo passports!</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>30. Feast of Saint Mark: Enjoy a bowl of cherries like Saint Gregory the Great and read about Saint Mark and the legend of the cherries</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>31. Our Lady of Good Counsel: Learn about the Battle of Lepanto today </i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>32. Feast of Saint Zita "The Little Cook": Let's bake some bread in honor of this little saint</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>33. Feast of Saint Gianna: Let's have an Italian dinner in honor of this Italian mother</i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>34. Feast of Saint Catherine of Siena: Saint Catherine had her hair cut for respecting her chastity. Today is a good day to honor her with some new haircuts</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>35. Feast of Saint Walburga: Celebrate Walpurgis Night with a fire, sparkling juice and prayers for the summer season to come</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>36. Saint Joseph the Workman: Let's do something special for daddy today</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>37. Send letters/ cards to friends and family! Remember Mother's Day is coming too!</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>38. Saint James: Saint James is the patron saint of hat makers! Its the perfect day to create our Kentucky Derby Hats and chose our bowties for this Saturday</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>39. Star Wars Day: May the 4th be with you and watch some Star Wars Shows</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>40. Ascension Thursday: Enjoy an Ascension Picnic Dinner</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>41. Cinco de mayo was yesterday but let's have a Mexican Fiesta for dinner tonight</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>42. Kentucky Derby: Ladies wear your big hats and boys your bows! Time for a Derby Party!</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>43. Mother's Day: Let's have a May Crowning Celebration in honor of our Blessed Mother</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>4</i><i>4. Celebrate this beautiful spring day with a delicious smoothie </i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>45. Blessed Damien of Moloka'i: Have a Hawaiian Luau and call Papa D today because Saint Damien is one of his patron saints</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>46. Start writing a summer bucket list in preparation for the end of the Easter Season</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>47. Blessed Imelda Lambertini: Listen to the Holy Heroes Blessed Imelda CD and reminisce about our family's First Holy Communion</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>48. Feast of Our Lady of Fatima and Friday the 13th: Pray a rosary together as a family and watch a Tim Burton Movie for a movie night</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>49. Letter Carriers Food Drive Day: Donate canned goods through this food drive or at a shelter</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>50. Pentecost: Celebrate the Church's Birthday with a party</i><br /><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRuS6nkIbePOe3mFAeFXa1_gpbPOg0tYK942ZqdJyTTXAm4XhyHhNAcLl0PaqBZObYLjeCXpD3GRPKjJm_suwBm0o1S1xznqx2IG7FbjsseNghbKyrqoPFsaC543zyxkJM47Hm2EoN9GM/s1600/IMG_0993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="color: #8a055e; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRuS6nkIbePOe3mFAeFXa1_gpbPOg0tYK942ZqdJyTTXAm4XhyHhNAcLl0PaqBZObYLjeCXpD3GRPKjJm_suwBm0o1S1xznqx2IG7FbjsseNghbKyrqoPFsaC543zyxkJM47Hm2EoN9GM/s640/IMG_0993.JPG" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="640" /></a></div>
<i><br /></i><i><br /></i>I wrote all these ideas on individual blank egg shaped paper I found at <a href="http://coloring-page-art.blogspot.com/" style="color: #8a055e; text-decoration-line: none;">coloring-page-art.blogspot.com</a> and I am going to cut them out and decorate a white poster board throughout Easter. It is still a work in progress so I will post about the final product later :)</div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="fauxcolumn-outer fauxcolumn-left-outer" style="background-color: white; bottom: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; left: 0px; overflow: hidden; position: absolute; top: 0px; width: 0px;">
<div class="fauxborder-left" style="background-position: left top; background-repeat: repeat-y; height: 4747.95px; position: relative;">
<div style="font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 1.4; position: relative; width: 662px;">
</div>
<div class="fauxborder-right" style="background-position: right top; background-repeat: repeat-y; height: 4747.95px; position: absolute; right: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="fauxcolumn-inner" style="border-right: 1px solid transparent; height: 4747.95px;">
</div>
<div class="fauxborder-right" style="background-position: right top; background-repeat: repeat-y; height: 4747.95px; position: absolute; right: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="fauxcolumn-inner" style="border-left: 1px solid transparent; height: 4747.95px;">
</div>
<span style="background-color: #bbbbbb; color: white; letter-spacing: 3px; margin: inherit; padding: 0.4em;">Sunday, March 27, 2016</span><br />Easter Calendar Craft<br />Decorating my home with the colors and smells of the season make me so happy! Easter is definitely one of my favorites because it symbolizes a renewal and cleanness that extends throughout the house. I also love that we have 40 days of fasting, praying and alms giving that ends with <u style="font-weight: bold;">50 days of Easter celebrations!</u> To aid in our celebrating I created an Easter calendar that has something fun for the family to do everyday during the Easter Season.<br />Here are the 50 ideas I came up with for this Easter Season, Day 1 starts on Sunday, March 27, 2016:<i><br /></i><i>1. Easter: Hang the Alleluia Banner and have a Resurrection Party</i><i><br /></i><i>2. Dyngus Day: Slovakian tradition on Easter Monday to celebrate with a water fight (snowball fight here because it is still SNOWING!)</i><i><br /></i><i>3. Make some White Hot Chocolate</i><i><br /></i><i>4. National Take a Walk in a Park Day: Let's go to a local park we have never been to before</i><i><br /></i><i>5. National Agricultural Day: Let's checkout a local farmer's market today</i><i><br /></i><i>6. April Fools Day: Dress up in something silly</i><i><br /></i><i>7. International Childrens' Book Day: Go to the Library and find some good books to read together</i><i><br /></i><i>8. Divine Mercy Sunday: Celebrate with the Divine Mercy Chaplet at 3pm and color a Divine Mercy Coloring page</i><i><br /></i><i>9. Annunciation of the Lord: also known as "Waffle Day"! Have a Blueberry Waffle breakfast</i><i><br /></i><i>10. Feast of Vincent Ferrer and National Deep Dish Pizza Day: St. Vincent is the patron saint of brick makers and construction workers so let's build something with Legos and enjoy some pizza!</i><i><br /></i><i>11. Family Game Night</i><i><br /></i><i>12. Feast of Saint John the Baptist de la Salle and National Beer Day: Bring your teacher a special treat and drink a Root beer in honor of today</i><br /><i>13. No School Today! Mommy and Sons Date :) </i><i><br /></i><i>14. National Chicken Little Awareness Day: Read and watch the story of Chicken Little</i><i><br /></i><i>15. National Siblings Day: Do something EXTRA nice for your siblings!</i><i><br /></i><i>16. National Pet Day: Get Lemon and Felix a special treat like catnip to celebrate them today</i><i><br /></i><i>17. Scrabble Day: Tomorrow is actually National Scrabble Day but we have something extra special planned for tomorrow, so lets play it today.</i><i><br /></i><i>18. Friends and Family Night at Daddy's Restaurant</i><i><br /></i><i>19. National Pecan Day: Enjoy some pecan ice cream </i><i><br /></i><i>20. Movie Night complete with candy, popcorn and soda</i><i><br /></i><i>21. Historical Feast of Saint Bernadette: Watch Saint Bernadette cartoon and enjoy a jello "spring" snack </i><i><br /></i><i>22. National Haiku Poetry Day: Let's write a beautiful poem together</i><i><br /></i><i>23. The Boston Marathon is today! Go on a Family Run</i><i><br /></i><i>24. Breakfast for Dinner tonight</i><i><br /></i><i>25. Feast of Saint Bueno: He is the patron saint of sick children. Let's bring a special treat to the children at Memorial Hospital</i><i><br /></i><i>26. Ice Cream Sundays for dessert tonight</i><i><br /></i><i>27. Earth</i><i> Day: Let's plant some flowers on our patio and watch the Lorax!</i><i><br /></i><i>28. Feast of Saint George the Dragon Slayer: Enjoy some fish and chips while we learn about this really amazing Saint</i><i><br /></i><i>29. Let's go to the zoo today. Don't forget your zoo passports!</i><i><br /></i><i>30. Feast of Saint Mark: Enjoy a bowl of cherries like Saint Gregory the Great and read about Saint Mark and the legend of the cherries</i><i><br /></i><i>31. Our Lady of Good Counsel: Learn about the Battle of Lepanto today </i><i><br /></i><i>32. Feast of Saint Zita "The Little Cook": Let's bake some bread in honor of this little saint</i><i><br /></i><i>33. Feast of Saint Gianna: Let's have an Italian dinner in honor of this Italian mother</i><br /><i>34. Feast of Saint Catherine of Siena: Saint Catherine had her hair cut for respecting her chastity. Today is a good day to honor her with some new haircuts</i><i><br /></i><i>35. Feast of Saint Walburga: Celebrate Walpurgis Night with a fire, sparkling juice and prayers for the summer season to come</i><i><br /></i><i>36. Saint Joseph the Workman: Let's do something special for daddy today</i><i><br /></i><i>37. Send letters/ cards to friends and family! Remember Mother's Day is coming too!</i><i><br /></i><i>38. Saint James: Saint James is the patron saint of hat makers! Its the perfect day to create our Kentucky Derby Hats and chose our bowties for this Saturday</i><i><br /></i><i>39. Star Wars Day: May the 4th be with you and watch some Star Wars Shows</i><i><br /></i><i>40. Ascension Thursday: Enjoy an Ascension Picnic Dinner</i><i><br /></i><i>41. Cinco de mayo was yesterday but let's have a Mexican Fiesta for dinner tonight</i><i><br /></i><i>42. Kentucky Derby: Ladies wear your big hats and boys your bows! Time for a Derby Party!</i><i><br /></i><i>43. Mother's Day: Let's have a May Crowning Celebration in honor of our Blessed Mother</i><i><br /></i><i>4</i><i>4. Celebrate this beautiful spring day with a delicious smoothie </i><i><br /></i><i>45. Blessed Damien of Moloka'i: Have a Hawaiian Luau and call Papa D today because Saint Damien is one of his patron saints</i><i><br /></i><i>46. Start writing a summer bucket list in preparation for the end of the Easter Season</i><i><br /></i><i>47. Blessed Imelda Lambertini: Listen to the Holy Heroes Blessed Imelda CD and reminisce about our family's First Holy Communion</i><i><br /></i><i>48. Feast of Our Lady of Fatima and Friday the 13th: Pray a rosary together as a family and watch a Tim Burton Movie for a movie night</i><i><br /></i><i>49. Letter Carriers Food Drive Day: Donate canned goods through this food drive or at a shelter</i><i><br /></i><i>50. Pentecost: Celebrate the Church's Birthday with a party</i><i><br /></i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRuS6nkIbePOe3mFAeFXa1_gpbPOg0tYK942ZqdJyTTXAm4XhyHhNAcLl0PaqBZObYLjeCXpD3GRPKjJm_suwBm0o1S1xznqx2IG7FbjsseNghbKyrqoPFsaC543zyxkJM47Hm2EoN9GM/s1600/IMG_0993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="color: #8a055e; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRuS6nkIbePOe3mFAeFXa1_gpbPOg0tYK942ZqdJyTTXAm4XhyHhNAcLl0PaqBZObYLjeCXpD3GRPKjJm_suwBm0o1S1xznqx2IG7FbjsseNghbKyrqoPFsaC543zyxkJM47Hm2EoN9GM/s640/IMG_0993.JPG" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="640" /></a><i><br /></i><i><br /></i>I wrote all these ideas on individual blank egg shaped paper I found at <a href="http://coloring-page-art.blogspot.com/" style="color: #8a055e; text-decoration-line: none;">coloring-page-art.blogspot.com</a> and I am going to cut them out and decorate a white poster board throughout Easter. It is still a work in progress so I will post about the final product later :)</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-24244077093877506342017-04-23T22:02:00.002-07:002017-04-23T22:02:34.549-07:00My Sunday Best: Divine Mercy Sunday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPPn6bZJrf7SqqxnvvI826vx4Zxn_3jSd1Dz7qeWvgICJUMyHGSeRME_y2A0Sln-6cJOgIWtXlfrC6pg3GYLWAKhyphenhyphenK8za1KFOABem5Kd0BpZk7-PQjMz9WJIuK_TFYX8KX-Vf_A6pKm1o/s1600/IMG_20170423_115523_546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPPn6bZJrf7SqqxnvvI826vx4Zxn_3jSd1Dz7qeWvgICJUMyHGSeRME_y2A0Sln-6cJOgIWtXlfrC6pg3GYLWAKhyphenhyphenK8za1KFOABem5Kd0BpZk7-PQjMz9WJIuK_TFYX8KX-Vf_A6pKm1o/s640/IMG_20170423_115523_546.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><b>This post may contain affiliate links that I receive a small commission. It does not change the price for you but it is a small blessing to my family. All opinions are my own.</b></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><b><br /></b></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Today is one of my most favorite days in the Liturgical year! Divine Mercy Sunday. I have always had a deep love of this Feast day, especially after I read <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ciframe%20style=%22width:120px;height:240px;%22%20marginwidth=%220%22%20marginheight=%220%22%20scrolling=%22no%22%20frameborder=%220%22%20src=%22//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=pinotnoirandp-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=1596141107&asins=1596141107&linkId=c727f06b386e5829cf760c5de5c7603c&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff%22%3E%20%20%20%20%20%3C/iframe%3E" target="_blank">Saint Faustina's Diary:Divine Mercy in my Heart</a>. It is one of those books that talks to your soul. As I grew older, I also became attached to the Divine Mercy Chaplet. If you haven't had the pleasure of chanting this mesmerizing prayer, today would be the best day to try it out! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I especially love that the <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ciframe%20style=%22width:120px;height:240px;%22%20marginwidth=%220%22%20marginheight=%220%22%20scrolling=%22no%22%20frameborder=%220%22%20src=%22//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=pinotnoirandp-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B00NQGHTUY&asins=B00NQGHTUY&linkId=c69791ee49fb0ed2e3a88b4db8aeddc5&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff%22%3E%20%20%20%20%20%3C/iframe%3E" target="_blank">portrait of Divine Mercy</a> is placed near the altar for all to see. The portrait of Divine Mercy is among my favorite painting of Jesus. The symbolism and simplicity of the portrait speak to my heart. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>“The two rays denote Blood and Water. The pale ray stands for the Water which makes souls righteous. The red ray stands for the Blood which is the life of souls... These two rays issued forth from the very depths of My tender mercy when My agonized Heart was opened by a lance on the Cross. These rays shield souls from the wrath of My Father. Happy is the one who will dwell in their shelter, for the just hand of God shall not lay hold of him”. (Diary 299)</i></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have always struggled with Reconciliation. It scares me. I do not feel I deserve pardon from my sins. I fight myself each time I participate in this Sacrament. I am a sinner. I always will be because I am human but I am so grateful that God has given me a way to clean my soul, even when I don't deserve it. Divine Mercy Sunday is one of the best days to participate in Reconciliation because of the special graces that you can receive today. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our Lord Jesus said, "The soul that will go to Confession and receive Holy Communion shall obtain complete forgiveness of sins and punishment. On that day all the divine floodgates through which graces flow are opened. Let no soul fear to draw near to Me, even though its sins be as scarlet.... Mankind will not have peace until it turns to the Fount of My Mercy." (699) The plenary indulgence that was issued for Divine Mercy Sunday does not change the promises of Our Lord. Rather it provides the Church's highest mark of approval and endorsement and gives souls more time to go to Confession.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now for some exciting news! For the past few years I have been praying about whether or not to veil. Today I made the jump and wore my first mantilla to Reconciliation, Adoration and Mass. It was an amazing experience. I felt more reverent and I felt a deeper love and connection between myself and Christ today. Do you Veil? Or perhaps know someone who does? If you have been feeling the pull to try out this beautiful and meaningful devotion, I feel you should give it a try. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdVKnrpnQm6nBtqkdq8I4MkofTKKuxRHLsNxHgQJGj7JazYvTg7CtvcqYrKj8Zjnx52smCxIDzT8oiV0JPAkTTPm7c_YWz39zLqyqwpf9HxWuVfdD5OE60L7aVC_2OsloCGZ1QUs6eFLE/s1600/IMG_20170423_113241_488.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdVKnrpnQm6nBtqkdq8I4MkofTKKuxRHLsNxHgQJGj7JazYvTg7CtvcqYrKj8Zjnx52smCxIDzT8oiV0JPAkTTPm7c_YWz39zLqyqwpf9HxWuVfdD5OE60L7aVC_2OsloCGZ1QUs6eFLE/s640/IMG_20170423_113241_488.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The Mantilla I am wearing I purchased from an adorable Catholic shop in Manitou Springs called <a href="http://windowsofheavenco.com/" target="_blank">Windows of Heaven</a>. It is a Mantilla made by <a href="https://www.veilsbylily.com/" target="_blank">Veils by Lily</a> and I think it is gorgeous. I love the design and the contrast of colors. Goalie, my youngest, kept telling me I looked like Mary. That was the biggest compliment he could have ever given me and I'm sure he doesn't understand that looking like Mary... reverent, modest and and all those wholesome things is part of the reason to veil.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here are some scripture and quotes to consider during your decision about whether or not to veil:</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonors his head.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
1 Corinthians 11:4</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
1 Corinthians 11:5</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A man indeed ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God; but woman is the glory of man.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
1 Corinthians 11:7</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The woman ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
1 Corinthians 11:10</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
St. John Chrysostom also spoke both of angels and the veiling of women:</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>“The angels are present here . . . Open the eyes of faith and look upon this sight. For if the very air is filled with angels, how much more so the Church! . . . Hear the Apostle teaching this, when he bids the women to cover their heads with a veil because of the presence of the angels.”</i></div>
<br />
Today was an amazing day and I feel blessed that I was able to receive absolution from my sins, receive Communion and pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy with my children. I began a new devotion that makes me grow in my relationship with our Lord and I feel renewed after a hard Lent. I hope the blessings of today have touched you the way they have me. I am linking this with <a href="http://rosie-ablogformymom.blogspot.com/2017/04/my-sunday-best-volume-51-divine-mercy.html" target="_blank">Rosie over at A Blog for my Mom.</a><br />
<br />
If you have a <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ciframe%20style=%22width:120px;height:240px;%22%20marginwidth=%220%22%20marginheight=%220%22%20scrolling=%22no%22%20frameborder=%220%22%20src=%22//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=pinotnoirandp-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B00NQGHTUY&asins=B00NQGHTUY&linkId=c69791ee49fb0ed2e3a88b4db8aeddc5&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff%22%3E%20%20%20%20%20%3C/iframe%3E" target="_blank">portrait of the Divine Mercy</a> in your home, here is a blessing that you could do to end your Divine Mercy Sunday:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Image Blessing on Mercy Sunday</b></div>
<br />
<i>Almighty and Eternal Father, in your goodness, bless and sanctify this Image of The Divine Mercy, Your dearly beloved Son, which has been fashioned to reveal to us the great love of our Crucified and Risen Savior, The Divine Mercy Personified. Help us recall to our minds the streams of Blood and Water that had gushed forth from His pierced Heart to be for us a continuous fount of mercy. Grant to all who invoke Your Mercy with this Image before their eyes, the grace of true repentance, pardon and peace. Shield them from every danger to soul and body in this life.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Jesus, our loving Savior, establish in this Image the Throne of Your Mercy. Pour out upon all of us, who approach it with faith and trust, the purifying, healing and sanctifying rays of grace ever emanating from it as a blazing star. Gaze upon us as you did from the Cross with your great love and mercy so that we may be filled with your grace.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Through this Image, may Your Divine Mercy triumph over all the powers of evil. May all who venerate this Image never perish. May it be their joy in life, their hope in death, and their glory in eternity for ever and ever.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>This we ask through Jesus Christ Our Lord. Amen!</i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-3110863699648647092017-03-08T20:27:00.002-07:002017-03-08T20:27:43.260-07:00#WorthRevisit: Saint David's DayThe beginning of March was the beginning of Lent, also known as Ash Wednesday. What some may not have known, is that it was also Saint David's Day.His feast day is celebrated on March 1st so it is almost always within the Lenten Season. Here is my <a href="http://reconciledtoyou.com/blog/worthrevisit-picking-up-the-wrong-cross" target="_blank">#WorthRevisit</a> with <a href="http://www.reconciledtoyou.com/index.html" target="_blank">Reconciled to You </a>and <a href="https://theologyisaverb.com/" target="_blank">Theology is a Verb</a>.<br />
<br />
<h2 class="date-header" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 0px; position: relative;">
<span style="background-color: #bbbbbb; color: white; letter-spacing: 3px; margin: inherit; padding: 0.4em;">Sunday, February 28, 2016</span></h2>
<div class="date-posts" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">
<div class="post-outer">
<div class="post hentry uncustomized-post-template" itemprop="blogPost" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://schema.org/BlogPosting" style="margin: 0px 0px 45px; min-height: 0px; position: relative;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="3876488557849795589"></a><br />
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="font-family: Pacifico; font-size: 30px; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;">
Saint David's Day</h3>
<div class="post-header" style="font-size: 12.6px; line-height: 1.6; margin: 0px 0px 1.5em;">
<div class="post-header-line-1">
</div>
</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-3876488557849795589" itemprop="description articleBody" style="font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 1.4; position: relative; width: 662.031px;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIZCuCTQk_J-CSboWlEWE9O58OJbW2cHM8mGQ3lZo1BOFbKRv3UrtHkLRm9OaAvIAwECSODonq3XkKXfXiQLAwgya8aMirmyGEO41Qw1Adgnjpwe7-La6dRiuMotbCbFW-sbgixnB_bWw/s1600/1514f96a71b4e28f418fbc40eb1f0f0e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; color: #8a055e; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIZCuCTQk_J-CSboWlEWE9O58OJbW2cHM8mGQ3lZo1BOFbKRv3UrtHkLRm9OaAvIAwECSODonq3XkKXfXiQLAwgya8aMirmyGEO41Qw1Adgnjpwe7-La6dRiuMotbCbFW-sbgixnB_bWw/s320/1514f96a71b4e28f418fbc40eb1f0f0e.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="252" /></a></div>
I have been making greater efforts to become more knowledgeable about Saints that I am not very acquainted. One of those Saints feast day is this Tuesday, March 1st. <span style="color: #fff2cc;"><a href="http://www.encyclopedia.com/topic/Saint_David.aspx" style="color: #8a055e; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #fff2cc;">Saint David of Wales</span></a> </span>is a very intriguing Saint because there are many stories that are told of Saint David, including one about a sea monster and him standing on the ground as a small hill formed beneath him to raise him above a crowd with a dove on his shoulder! There is even another story about Saint David blessing poison bread and consuming it without being hurt. Being a mom of two boys I think these stories will be big enough to catch their attention while we celebrate this amazing man but insanely enough, there are even more stories. He is the patron saint of doves, poets and Wales. There are also a number of symbols used to represent Saint David such as the leek and daffodils! I think it would be a great experience to be in Wales on Saint David's Day to be included in the festivals and activities that are held on March 1st in his honor. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SO... Here are a few of my thoughts on this feast day because I can honestly think of a million different things we could do to make this fun and memorable for my family!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Activities: </b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Write a poem!! Saint David is the patron saint of poets and was known for the way he prayed, studied and wrote during his life. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Only drink water today... Saint David only drank water and was even nicknamed "The Waterman". and never drank wine or beer! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Plant some flowers because daffodils are a symbol of Saint David and his country of Wales. He was also a great laborer and said "every man is his own ox"... this would be the perfect day to start you Resurrection gardens too! There are still 3 weeks left in Lent for them to grow into beautiful displays for Easter.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Depending on your child's maturity, you could discuss <a href="http://www.spookyisles.com/2013/03/the-welsh-corpse-candles-of-st-david/" style="color: #8a055e; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #fff2cc;">Corpse Candles</span></a>. Personally, my boys are a little too young but I am intrigued and may do some additional research on this subject for my own knowledge. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Food:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anything made with leeks or a vegetarian meal with some bread would be a great way to honor Saint David. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Potato Leek Soup <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Spinach and Leek White Bean Soup<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rosemary Tomato Leek Soup<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some options other than soup:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Quiche with Tomato, Kale and Leek<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Baked rice with leeks and bok choy<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Vegetable Pot Pie (Including Parsnips, carrots, sweet potato and leeks)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I love to scroll through recipes on <a href="http://catholiccuisine.blogspot.com/" style="color: #8a055e; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #fff2cc;">Catholic Cuisine</span></a> and <a href="http://allrecipes.com/" style="color: #8a055e; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #fff2cc;">AllRecipes.com</span></a>... AND Remember to drink some water with dinner :)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Tradition:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Obviously I won't be traveling on March 1st to Saint David's Cathedral but it is on my list of religious places I want to visit before I leave this world for the next but it is said that visiting the Cathedral of St Davids in Pembrokeshire where his remains are buried have become a popular place of pilgrimage. It was also said that two pilgrimages to St David's is equalled to one pilgrimage to Rome and three equalled one to Jerusalem. I am not sure of the validity of this statement but if anyone has some insight, I would appreciate it!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Prayer:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are some prayers that you can start 9 days prior to the Feast of Saint David. I wish I would have done research on this really amazing Saint earlier so I could have done a Novena. Like I said earlier, he is a Saint I didn't know much about prior to my research I started the past few days. As a side note...The website linked to the <a href="http://www.prayer-calendar.org/tag/novena-to-st-david/" style="color: #8a055e; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #fff2cc;">Novenas</span></a> is a great resource for any prayer you may want to find.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Video/ Audio:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is a short <span style="color: #fff2cc;"><a href="https://youtu.be/vyfXWSVaqUE" style="color: #8a055e; text-decoration: none;">YouTube Video</a> </span>that gives a short animation portrayal of how Saint David became a Saint. I think my boys will enjoy it. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is also a neat site called <span style="color: #fff2cc;"><a href="http://www.storynory.com/2009/02/09/st-david-patron-saint-of-wales/" style="color: #8a055e; text-decoration: none;">Storynory</a> </span>that has an audio on Saint David of Wales.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I really have enjoyed learning about Saint David as his Feast Day approaches. If you have any other information on Saint David or customs/ traditions used to honor this Saint, please let me know! Saint David is a great example of how to complete Lenten Sacrifices and reading about his life has inspired me to make this Lenten Season the best that it can be!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I leave you with with Saint David's last words...<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Be joyful, and keep your faith and your creed. Do those little things that you have seen me do and heard about."</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-9225033077862578742017-03-05T19:39:00.000-07:002017-03-05T19:57:27.304-07:00The Lenten Season and the Five Senses<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcmyyz-5yGWhLh4YzAGSqQQZKmIt7l6p-J489PaAZHHIDk8BU-exOgAoP9JP1eaeUieNdw2kpkRIEl84Qc0OvpufqpbdV8pcKtHQLMlGvbTSzqZr-qH7kp_WXHywIriePoumhvZGLN0-Y/s1600/The+Lenten+season.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcmyyz-5yGWhLh4YzAGSqQQZKmIt7l6p-J489PaAZHHIDk8BU-exOgAoP9JP1eaeUieNdw2kpkRIEl84Qc0OvpufqpbdV8pcKtHQLMlGvbTSzqZr-qH7kp_WXHywIriePoumhvZGLN0-Y/s640/The+Lenten+season.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
If you read my previous post on <a href="https://pinotnoirandprayers.blogspot.com/2017/03/ash-wednesday-story-you-wont-forget.html" target="_blank">Ash Wednesday</a> then you already know that I am feeling behind on my Lenten preparations. Today is the First Sunday of Lent and I have challenged myself to get my home and plans solidified by the end of the day. I am feeling pretty confident that I will have everything accomplished but I am trying not to count my chickens before they hatch too. It is time to dive into the Lenten Season head first and be engulfed by the beautiful simplicity and meaningful moments that can come from fully participating.<br />
<br />
First things first. How do you create an atmosphere for Lent? With Decorations? Music? Changing up your Family Meal Plans? I dapple in each of these areas since I like to immerse my family in the season and I have a sensory child that enjoys and understands the concepts more with his environment being overtaken with sights, sounds, touches, scents and tastes. What could be better than finding a way to entice your senses while on your journey to a closer relationship to God. After all, he created us with these senses, he surely wants us to use them!<br />
<br />
<h2>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">SIGHT</span></h2>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieJRaVLSb06ym6MnI2_q7QYVvNuhMlSAwIe7Qo-Zpn9RXfZbSKM03L78vYuRgEHxrza7NMBz-_2rASLym5GlfVzLOsUppheYLORdHvxcJioOZMfYuunbbKxD0smGZ8PZkHAW3BiZ4YOS0/s1600/IMG_4956.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieJRaVLSb06ym6MnI2_q7QYVvNuhMlSAwIe7Qo-Zpn9RXfZbSKM03L78vYuRgEHxrza7NMBz-_2rASLym5GlfVzLOsUppheYLORdHvxcJioOZMfYuunbbKxD0smGZ8PZkHAW3BiZ4YOS0/s640/IMG_4956.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Let's start with the sense of sight. The breathtaking colors of Violet and Purple and the rustic accents of branches, thorns and wilderness really make Lent come to life. Simplicity is key. So far I have adorned our fireplace mantle with a DIY board I created of the Stations of the Cross and flame-less votive candles. The twinkling flames against our Stations as they each go out one by one as we pray the Stations on Fridays, create a nice prayerful ambiance. I also have plain branches in a vase that is tied with a violet ribbon on our dining room table and a beautiful picture that represents Lent to my family on display. I also tied a grapevine wreath with the same purple ribbon as the vase on our front door. Our home altar has been cleaned and looks very simple with a purple cover, crown of thorns, sacrifice bean jar, our operation rice bowl and a beautiful purple rosary I won in a giveaway hosted by<a href="http://mrsandyanchored.com/" target="_blank"> Mrs. Andy Anchored by Faith</a>. This is one of the areas I just completed today and I am feeling quite proud of the Lenten feel that is in my home.<br />
<br />
<h2>
SOUND</h2>
<br />
Sounds are a little more difficult for me to chose during this season. When I think of a prayerful place, I think of quite, which is not something you will find in our crazy little home. So to embrace both Lent and the crazy that is happening in my home at all times, I thought some nice background music would be good or some nice calm prayers. My children and I are huge fans of<a href="http://www.holyheroes.com/Holy-Heroes-Audio-CDs-s/60.htm?Click=27991" target="_blank"> Holy Heroes</a> line of audio CDs. They offer the<a href="http://www.holyheroes.com/Holy-Heroes-Audio-CDs-s/60.htm?Click=27991" target="_blank"> Stations of the Cross</a>, <a href="http://www.holyheroes.com/Holy-Heroes-Audio-CDs-s/60.htm?Click=27991" target="_blank">the Rosary</a> and <a href="http://www.holyheroes.com/Glory-Stories-s/2.htm?Click=27991" target="_blank">Glory Stories</a> about the Saints! and I was also given a great review about <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00327Y83S?ie=UTF8&tag=pinotnoirandp-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B00327Y83S" target="_blank">Music for Children's Liturgy of the Word by Christopher Walker</a> that I purchased to add to our collection. I would love to hear what you consider a "sound of the season" for Lent.<br />
<br />
<h2>
TOUCH</h2>
<br />
The most difficult sense for me to decide on is always Touch. To satisfy the sense of touch, I have collected a nice amount of coloring pages. Once again, I have to mention <a href="http://www.holyheroes.com/default.asp?Click=27991" target="_blank">Holy Heroes</a>. They offer a <a href="http://www.holyheroes.com/default.asp?Click=27991" target="_blank">FREE Lenten Adventure</a> that send you coloring pages, word searches, cross words and much more that is relevant to the season of Lent. I also would like you to check out <a href="http://life-love-sacred-art.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Life, Love and Sacred Art </a>for some great coloring pages. In addition to coloring, there are some great crafts to have readily available. Burying the "ALLELUIA" is one of my children's absolute favorite crafts. We will also be creating a Resurrection Garden that you start during Lent so it is in bloom for Easter. Making Sacrifice Beads, Rosaries and Lenten Trees are also some fun and simple crafts you could do as a family.<br />
<br />
Books are another touch that would be great to dive into during Lent. Devotionals and stories that explain the Lenten season and some of the feast days we celebrate during the 40 days. I was struggling with a Lenten devotional I wanted to focus on since I had already read a <a href="https://pinotnoirandprayers.blogspot.com/2017/01/my-experience-walk-in-her-sandals.html" target="_blank">Walk in Her Sandals</a>, I knew I would reread that during Holy Week but I was stumped about what to do the rest of the season. I decided I would read <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01A0193UG?ie=UTF8&tag=pinotnoirandp-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B01A0193UG" target="_blank">Rediscover Jesus: An Invitation</a> and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1942611919?ie=UTF8&tag=pinotnoirandp-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=1942611919" target="_blank">Resisting Happiness</a> both written by Matthew Kelly. I am excited about these National Best-Sellers because there are questions in each section that allow me to ponder what I have read and how it relates to me so I can write in my prayer journal.<br />
<br />
<h2>
TASTE</h2>
<br />
When I think of tastes, the first thing that comes to mind is food and drink! The whole premise of the Lenten season is simplicity so simple meals, snacks and drinks are what I consider to captivate my family's sense of taste. I love baking pretzels and special meatless meals each Friday. The Crock pot is my lifeline during the incredibly busy season of Lent so it makes my home smell delicious and gets our taste-buds ready for our tasty meals. Here is a short list of Lenten recipe ideas below:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Shrimp Pasta</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Shrimp Tacos</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tuna Sandwich</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Vegetable Soups</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Simple Salads</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Spaghetti Squash and Marinara</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fruit Salad</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Three Bean Salad</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Homemade Pretzels</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Macaroni and Cheese</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Breakfast Bread</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
What are some of your go-to recipes? Do you prefer to cook out or go out? Are you active in the Knights of Columbus Spaghetti Dinners and Fish Frys? We are going to a Knights of Columbus Fish Fry this upcoming Friday!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
Scents</h2>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
What other scents do you think of for the Lenten Season? I think there could be an argument for incense and essential oils as an important aspect of your Lenten experience as well. Frankincense is a great option. Maybe purchase some candles made by monks or nun to keep in your home during seasons on extra prayer!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Let's also not forget the smells of Spring Cleaning! We use organic products in my home called <a href="http://www.amway.com/JessicaPadillaStore/at-home/legacy-of-clean" target="_blank">Legacy of Clean</a> and they smell amazing!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ejaiWVlghCsn4TeQaqovIyy3BnT5GX5AQAfONQFdiZSpCelR99D6YN8ZOBN2H-QpdvTbLhqvQyUeCkrUm3iRiXg96_5AgmYe-KkJvZFxRZwzVQmuEAcHSlbDha2MJGHlEyqhcGkqVr4/s1600/16807726-10210010623879799-7122659085406450948-n_1_orig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ejaiWVlghCsn4TeQaqovIyy3BnT5GX5AQAfONQFdiZSpCelR99D6YN8ZOBN2H-QpdvTbLhqvQyUeCkrUm3iRiXg96_5AgmYe-KkJvZFxRZwzVQmuEAcHSlbDha2MJGHlEyqhcGkqVr4/s400/16807726-10210010623879799-7122659085406450948-n_1_orig.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Still need more ideas to tingle your senses? Check out the <a href="http://www.reconciledtoyou.com/cwbn-blog-hop.html" target="_blank">CWBN Blog Hop</a>! So many wonderful ideas and suggestions to bring the full season of Lent to your families with sacrifice, prayers and alms-giving.<br />
<br />
It is important to remember that Lent is what you make it. You can make it simple or as complicated as you like and just like anything else in life, you will get out of it what you put into it.<br />
<br />
Happy Lent and God Bless!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-43147352138686748582017-03-04T22:36:00.002-07:002017-03-04T22:36:59.480-07:00Ash Wednesday: A Story You Won't Forget<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhNO-89duX6nlULZwDl0AgkBlz2mNDKSPOSAtyAD1VopoSWYzq-MO8XlEmE7ZJCFq9jnT5nLybJ80jxjm26SZoWyD3qWdUOs5Gnx7fw73EbYbcAdcSIST6E23CXSU6bljaOxBqmN-qDtQ/s1600/IMG_4933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="373" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhNO-89duX6nlULZwDl0AgkBlz2mNDKSPOSAtyAD1VopoSWYzq-MO8XlEmE7ZJCFq9jnT5nLybJ80jxjm26SZoWyD3qWdUOs5Gnx7fw73EbYbcAdcSIST6E23CXSU6bljaOxBqmN-qDtQ/s400/IMG_4933.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am struggling with this Lenten season already: I have not started a devotional yet, I have not set out our Lenten decor and I am feeling a little unmotivated. I feel like these are the very same reasons I need to get my butt in gear and finalize my late preparations and immerse myself in this blessed season as soon as possible and so this is the reason behind this post. I wanted to refocus on what is truly important and share all about my awesome experience this past Ash Wednesday.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ash Wednesday is the official kick off day of the Lenten season and for Catholics means a day of fasting and abstinence (no eating meat). It is Day 1 in your Lenten sacrifice, additional prayers and alms-giving. Honestly, I have a deep love of Lent. It is always an enlightening experience and I feel that I make great strides in my vocation as a wife, mother and friend while growing closer in my relationship to God. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Well, this Ash Wednesday was a little different and I can promise you that I will never forget it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have two children, Little Man (age 9) and Goalie (age 6). Little Man is old enough to receive Communion and often Altar Serves on a regular basis in our parish. Goalie on the other hand is too young to really participate in the Mass besides as a parishioner and he is often saddened that he cannot receive Communion or help as an Altar boy yet. In addition to Goalie's sadness about just getting to sit with mommy, he is developmentally delayed and undergoing autism testing (they are pretty sure he has Aspergers). I am sharing this background so you can truly understand my experience this past Wednesday.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyu-6GAXGCXdO3Pt1joVQRZmazjihI0ESAw57Yvuow8Y_dTjWYITRvlrOwhI_ZtK9uTL4phmpADPpZmPFNQNYyin6uxd0QXDayE7RgFLHUyV0X5igIO-OZ8C_gWZAAUpPt98K9oPDGPLE/s1600/IMG_4938.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyu-6GAXGCXdO3Pt1joVQRZmazjihI0ESAw57Yvuow8Y_dTjWYITRvlrOwhI_ZtK9uTL4phmpADPpZmPFNQNYyin6uxd0QXDayE7RgFLHUyV0X5igIO-OZ8C_gWZAAUpPt98K9oPDGPLE/s640/IMG_4938.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Little Man was Altar Serving at the Ash Wednesday Mass we attended in the evening and Goalie and I were sitting in the front pew, as we always do, so we can see Little Man in action and Goalie can be close enough to the Choir to feel as if he is a part of it. Mass was going great! No real outbursts from Goalie and Little Man was doing an amazing job attending to his duties.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The ashes were blessed and we were in line to receive them on our foreheads. I can't even begin to describe Goalie's excitement to receive his ashes. He had made it seem like it would be the highlight of his life! We were blessed with our ashes and returned to our pew. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
Then it happened....</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Goalie is holding his hands in front of him like he is fighting the urge to grab his face with both his hands and his face is contorted like he is in pain!</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I ask him, "Are you Okay?" "What's wrong?"</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
He begins to shake his little hands and points at his head while exclaiming "My head is on fire!"</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was completely taken by surprise by this answer and obviously his head was not on fire but I think I sat there for a minute of two starring at my child while he was having a complete sensory meltdown. When I finally understood what was happening, I calmly explained that the ashes maybe felt strange but I assured Goalie he was not on fire and he was okay. This conversation about Goalie's head being on fire went on until right before the Consecration of the Eucharist. The poor little guy couldn't move past the idea that his forehead was on fire so in my desperation to make him feel better and screaming "My head is on fire!", I allowed him to rub his ashes off. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Looking back on this story now, it is actually quite funny, I mean it is the kind of story people joke about happening but I got to live it. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you think that's the end of my story you would be wrong, here's the icing on the cake.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After Goalie had calmed himself, I realized that I heard the bell ringing that is normally rung when the Eucharist is being blessed. But the Eucharist was not being held up by the priest yet. I looked up toward the Altar Servers to see Little Man ringing the bells like there is no tomorrow and he is just grinning from ear to ear. It was his first time getting the honor of ringing the bells and he obviously was excited and also had no clue what he was doing. One of the other servers was trying to get his attention to stop, but their efforts were in vain.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Between Little Man ringing the bells throughout the entire Consecration and Goalie's head "being on fire". It was quite the eventful Mass to say the least. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj69EvntlYzo6YWvt2cNwJdwDD8m2yGergrpNdZ_hzCXCDQ_gzUrcI9dHXn5caw-2mROP29oVeFnqks-gkM6iLbcNATZqa8EEHBB7GdIMReCFNMdOyWEjU3hyphenhyphenWMyKfKmg7jqdCPF9GCoRc/s1600/IMG_4940.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj69EvntlYzo6YWvt2cNwJdwDD8m2yGergrpNdZ_hzCXCDQ_gzUrcI9dHXn5caw-2mROP29oVeFnqks-gkM6iLbcNATZqa8EEHBB7GdIMReCFNMdOyWEjU3hyphenhyphenWMyKfKmg7jqdCPF9GCoRc/s640/IMG_4940.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
As promised I guaranteed you a story you would not forget! I can promise you that although this was the most hilarious Ash Wednesday, it was also one of the most special. Goalie was able to receive ashes for the first time (even though it was short lived) and Little Man had his first experience with more responsibility as an Altar Server and was extremely enthusiastic. We all made a memory we would never forget and found ourselves closer to God, that's what it is all about anyway right? The picture above is our #ashtag we shared in honor of Ash Wednesday.<br />
<br />
Now, I want to hear from my readers! How is your start to Lent going? Are you feeling like me, behind and unorganized? Or have you already dove into this amazing season with two feet and feeling the blessings that come with a meaningful Lenten season? Have you had any experiences like me with burning heads and an excited Altar boy?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>A Prayer for Ash Wednesday:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Gracious God, today begins a period of inner reflection and examination. The days stretch before me and invite me inward to that silent, holy space that holds your Spirit. This special time beckons me to see my life through Christ's eyes and the truth and reality of your love incarnate. Give me the grace to enter the space of these days with anticipation of our meeting. And, when I open my soul to your presence, let your loving kindness flow over me and seep into the pockets of my heart. I ask this for the sake of your love.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Amen.</i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-30529512753474245972017-02-28T22:43:00.000-07:002017-02-28T22:43:46.939-07:00Shrove Tuesday: Feast Before You Fast<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7kI6Zxds0hc-6ok9j86ZmHe4P1rR8m6vb0L35wIF18QgWG-wM5XQrDBWgirY_acyakMyqzN3LEzWe27AV974qSD3IEh3GU5vOMvZ3XJmoLy5AYt6O2uq1BSJP4WssulyWA6fdVJy3Qa4/s1600/2009.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7kI6Zxds0hc-6ok9j86ZmHe4P1rR8m6vb0L35wIF18QgWG-wM5XQrDBWgirY_acyakMyqzN3LEzWe27AV974qSD3IEh3GU5vOMvZ3XJmoLy5AYt6O2uq1BSJP4WssulyWA6fdVJy3Qa4/s640/2009.png" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Today is the last day before we begin our 40 day journey into Lent. Ash Wednesday is tomorrow but before you begin your Lenten walk, make sure to feast on Shrove Tuesday, also known as Fat Tuesday. This day is meant to be the day for you to purge your home of the ingredients you should attempt to stay away from during the Lenten season such as butter, milk, sugar and eggs. You know... the tasty ingredients that make our foods full flavored. It is for this reason that pancakes are super popular on Shrove Tuesday and is sometimes referred to as Pancake Day! I know we have an annual Pancake dinner every Fat Tuesday. I also learned that there is another reason that pancakes are so popular on the day before Lent. They represent the four pillars of the Christian faith. Eggs symbolize creation, flour is the mainstay of the human diet, salt represents wholesomeness and milk is a symbol for purity.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiox2Lrt2gKdYE3vG779npWuE0Vzp5gOjyTE8Uw9Z4EbWEBkpVa77vaB2qd2U9orgjjwMcL2CWR3bM6M76gUGyIReBj5e-nehWU0RxeNV2jDCtG9GAlLj7Jb_nwVNgrzhEUHyTczwpv9c4/s1600/IMG_4929.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiox2Lrt2gKdYE3vG779npWuE0Vzp5gOjyTE8Uw9Z4EbWEBkpVa77vaB2qd2U9orgjjwMcL2CWR3bM6M76gUGyIReBj5e-nehWU0RxeNV2jDCtG9GAlLj7Jb_nwVNgrzhEUHyTczwpv9c4/s640/IMG_4929.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
In our home we spend this day enjoying our delicious pancakes and normally a king cake. I was unable to get a king cake this year so we settled on a beautiful cake decorated in a similar fashion. We also prepare for Lent by discussing the things that we will be fasting from during the upcoming 40 days.<br />
<br />
I have to admit I am somewhat behind on having I need ready for Lent but I should have everything completed by tomorrow. Check out my post about the <a href="https://pinotnoirandprayers.blogspot.com/2017/02/worthrevisit-lenten-season.html" target="_blank">Lenten Season</a> to get ideas on how to celebrate this amazing season of Lent with your families.I will be sharing more tomorrow on Ash Wednesday as well.<br />
<br />
Do you have traditions for Shrove Tuesday? If so, I would love to hear all about them! What about Lenten activities too?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn6U2BnVGSeDGzgmjUfNYIofjERF3dqMWdhkcQoDJeRmCOJowHtY5_JlllnrhVDFyd038Pd6s6ZAabCW-jCPYU136n-Z4EwUCa_PBzWN4WYFCKb_MPbTXR3mmGiLc8gL3W6DRrG73xiE0/s1600/IMG_4928.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn6U2BnVGSeDGzgmjUfNYIofjERF3dqMWdhkcQoDJeRmCOJowHtY5_JlllnrhVDFyd038Pd6s6ZAabCW-jCPYU136n-Z4EwUCa_PBzWN4WYFCKb_MPbTXR3mmGiLc8gL3W6DRrG73xiE0/s640/IMG_4928.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
I hope you and your families were able to feast before fasting begins tomorrow. Honestly, Lent is one of my favorite times of the year. A time to embrace a positive change in faith, love and life. Get ready for an amazing journey and be ready to accept your Lenten adventure. I can't wait to see what is in store for us all.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Prayer for Shrove Tuesday:</b></div>
<br />
<i>Lord, give us grace to inaugurate with holy fasting the defenses of Christian warfare, so that we who are to fight against spiritual wickedness, may be helped and strengthened by self-denial.</i><br />
<i>Amen</i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-20110686772736447582017-02-22T22:20:00.002-07:002017-02-22T22:20:31.572-07:00#WorthRevisit: The Lenten SeasonWith the start of the Lenten Season right around the corner, I felt it would be great to share my plans from last year. Truth be told, I haven't even begun starting my Lenten preparations for this year besides starting a book club for <a href="https://pinotnoirandprayers.blogspot.com/2017/01/my-experience-walk-in-her-sandals.html" target="_blank">A Walk in Her Sandals</a>. I would love to hear what you have planned for yourself and your families. Lent is one of those seasons I always look forward too and I always feel renewed in my faith. Here is my #<a href="http://reconciledtoyou.com/blog/worthrevisit-what-jesus-has-in-common-with-shepherds" target="_blank">WorthRevisit </a>with <a href="http://www.reconciledtoyou.com/index.html" target="_blank">Reconciled for You</a> and <a href="https://theologyisaverb.com/" target="_blank">Theology is a Verb</a>.<br />
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Pacifico; font-size: 30px; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;">
The Lenten Season</h3>
<div class="post-header" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.6px; line-height: 1.6; margin: 0px 0px 1.5em;">
<div class="post-header-line-1">
</div>
</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-3354963313881729946" itemprop="description articleBody" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 1.4; position: relative; width: 662.031px;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifL8cdTxBXaar2w6i7V02qGpmhvMvNiMfaMw7ZUBsJWhTL2ElGeUxAHOgsWLGhieSljnIkhl8GSeByEBIa8fDQE9LBKATYxmMZ0CuVZW7FvJtEBUXBgyAR8HfhR3x19kpRypUHXMsRMBU/s1600/eAdd+a+little+bit+of+body+text+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="color: #8a055e; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifL8cdTxBXaar2w6i7V02qGpmhvMvNiMfaMw7ZUBsJWhTL2ElGeUxAHOgsWLGhieSljnIkhl8GSeByEBIa8fDQE9LBKATYxmMZ0CuVZW7FvJtEBUXBgyAR8HfhR3x19kpRypUHXMsRMBU/s640/eAdd+a+little+bit+of+body+text+%25281%2529.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />The Lenten Season is in full swing and I have already managed to get behind on some of the activities I was attempting to incorporate this year. In a way, this is what Lent is really about... simplifying our insanely crazy lives from all the distractions and learning to focus on what is really important. There are so many different ways to emphasize this special season of praying, fasting and alms giving. I love this season pf preparation because even though I often struggle to make changes, I am highly motivated and when I fail, I am able to refocus and try again with discouragement.<br /><br /><a href="http://faithandfabricdesign.com/2014/03/activity-lent-promise-card-for-families.html" style="color: #8a055e; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Lenten Promises</a>: This was something new I added to our usual Lenten traditions. Everyone in the family wrote out their Lenten promises and displayed them on the mantel. We have two boys in need of writing practice and this gave us a great way to do it! I am still brainstorming but I think I could incorporate these Lenten Promise papers into our Family Command Center... just a thought.<br /><br /><a href="http://stbrigidsacademy.blogspot.com/2011/03/jesus-tree.html" style="color: #8a055e; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Lenten tree</a>: My boys love this tradition and we have done an "OK" job of keeping up with our daily evening of reading the scripture included on the ornament and hanging it on our Lenten Tree on the mantel place. We've had a couple nights were we had to double up on ornaments to catch up but I have all intentions of completing this on a nightly basis moving forward. If you click the link, you will have access to the same ornaments my family has used the past few years. On a side note: I am hoping that I can reprint these ornaments on card stock and laminate them so we can reuse them instead of me printing the ornaments each year and cutting them as we go. Or maybe transfer them onto wood...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.whitehouseblackshutters.com/40-bags-in-40-days/" style="color: #8a055e; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">40 Bags in 40 Days</a>: This is my first year doing this and it is great! It is an awesome way to spring clean and reorganize your whole house. It is a great way to jump start your alms giving as well. I even gave the kids each a bag to go through their toys.<br /><br /><a href="http://familyfeastandferia.com/printables/stations-of-the-cross-for-children/" style="color: #8a055e; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Stations of the Cross</a>: I created a display on a purple foam poster board with the printable Stations of the Cross I found at <a href="http://familyfeastandferia.com/printables/stations-of-the-cross-for-children/" style="color: #8a055e; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Family and Feast in Feria</a>. This is still an art project *under construction* but it is displayed on our mantel and is coming together.<br /><br />Sacrifice Beans: This is actually sad for me to admit but I still haven't bought any beans for my kids Sacrifice Beans... this is one of the areas I am lacking right now because my to-do list is overflowing. Throughout the day the boys do extra chores, prayers and acts of kindness so that they can add "sacrifice" beans to their jar that will turn into jelly beans on Easter Sunday!<br /><br />Bury the Alleluia: We have an "ALLELUIA" banner that I made several years ago that we normally put inside a gift bag that says DO NOT OPEN UNTIL EASTER... however, this year it is folded under the plate that is holding our crown of thorns. No mater how you do it, the kids always love displaying the banner on Easter until the Easter season is complete.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.holyheroes.com/Holy-Heroes-Lenten-Adventure-s/37.htm&Click=27991" style="color: #8a055e; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Holy Heroes Lenten Adventure</a>: This is my absolute FAVORITE activity to do with the children. To begin with the program is FREE, They have so many resources to accompany the program as well. You can purchase the activity books (which are cheaper than printing multiple copies of printables everyday) and audio CDs you can take on the go.<br /><br />Resurrection Garden: There are many different variations of this craft but I am hoping to purchase the necessities to do this craft from the Dollar Tree and create some gardens with the boys this weekend!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-64421965481890872372017-02-20T19:58:00.000-07:002017-02-20T19:58:01.862-07:00Menu Plan Monday: President's Day Edition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxUlqtVrutDo0HW2EtjZi3fn6aYE6Uit5824U5UMZY3bo5tdeTVirF5vCJQ5r0Ya3xej1wdTNo0T7egohEpCasMpBS1pyEIe-pU4tIvGEdIfV9ZAqw5U_YfEAV9lA6GzQZGgBoEIfqYY/s1600/MPM-Winter.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxUlqtVrutDo0HW2EtjZi3fn6aYE6Uit5824U5UMZY3bo5tdeTVirF5vCJQ5r0Ya3xej1wdTNo0T7egohEpCasMpBS1pyEIe-pU4tIvGEdIfV9ZAqw5U_YfEAV9lA6GzQZGgBoEIfqYY/s640/MPM-Winter.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have been unable to participate in the past few weeks of Menu Plan Mondays due to some medical issues but I am ready to get organized and back into the rhythm of things. I was told by a physician that if I lost the weight I have gained from not working out as much, may alleviate some of the pressure on my back and hopefully help with the shooting pains, tingling and numbness problems from my Spina Bifida. I am excited to get healthier and hopefully register for some upcoming races. We have been having some BEAUTIFUL weather here and abnormally warm. It has been heavenly! Well here is our Menu for <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2017/02/menu-plan-monday-feb-2017.html" target="_blank">Menu Plan Monday</a>: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Monday: President's Day and Blessed Francisco and Jacinta Marto</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Leftover Pizza</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Tuesday: Feast of Saint Peter Damian</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Turkey Burgers</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Wednesday: Chair of Saint Peter</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Dinner at Chick-Fil-A (Cub Scout Outing)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Thursday</b>:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Chicken Fried Rice</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Friday</b>:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Soup and Salad</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Saturday</b>:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Sunday:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Chili and Cornbread</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-61598532665773927842017-02-19T23:14:00.000-07:002017-02-19T23:14:50.046-07:00Rocking Motherhood Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Motherhood is crazy roller-coaster that is unique and amazing everyday, even with its moments of anxiety from the crazy momentum and scary turns that you never saw coming. I consider motherhood the biggest blessing to ever been given to me. I look back at my life and cringe with some of the crazy and nonsensical things I have done. Becoming a mom was the the absolute best thing that has ever happened to me. I have two beautiful little boys that know how to make the me the happiest woman on Earth but can also push me to the edge of insanity with a moments notice. Although there are times when I honestly have no clue what I am doing, I know that I am rocking motherhood in my own special little way. I have embraced the roller coaster ride and am excited to see what lies around the bend.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
I was tagged by Hannah over at <a href="https://lovelylittlelives.com/rockingmotherhoodchallenge/" target="_blank">Lovely Little Lives</a> to participate in the 10 Ways I'm Rocking Motherhood Challenge. Thank you Hannah for giving me the opportunity to look at motherhood through a positive perspective. You can check out her post in the link above and you can continue reading to see how I am rocking motherhood below:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoHBa0a-kUwOSARbPmUDJoyFzNJ1_16rEODFb69N6VV4S1stuFMkrS0wOGRtzp4dZfuegr7gAF60lB2n9EYxvZm95mFRGr-4pik0m7VzWe7WB-93EEIfM-ZqwPMxJop8WBj864Fh6Qe0o/s1600/IMG_0504.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoHBa0a-kUwOSARbPmUDJoyFzNJ1_16rEODFb69N6VV4S1stuFMkrS0wOGRtzp4dZfuegr7gAF60lB2n9EYxvZm95mFRGr-4pik0m7VzWe7WB-93EEIfM-ZqwPMxJop8WBj864Fh6Qe0o/s640/IMG_0504.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<br /></h2>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
I am a fighter.</h2>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
</h2>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Through my past ten years as a mommy I have had to battle many demons that I never imagined. I fought my way out of an abusive marriage. It took four long years but we all survived. I have fought with back pain for longer than I can remember. I fight depression and anxiety everyday. No matter what happens, I will continue to fight. My God is larger than anything that can come against me and my family and I want my children to know this from my example. I also want them to know that I am always in their corner just waiting for when they need me.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
I am Patient. </h2>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Little man is almost ten years old now, extremely intelligent and likes to act older than his age. Goalie is developmentally delayed and struggles with emotions, socializing and education. They are opposites in so many ways and sometimes it is hard to parent children that are so different. God has blessed me with a great deal of patience (most days) and I think that it helps me to be a better mom and wife. </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9yEaYneP3KdNsk4rlI0Bhh-LvM6ZioZMfnspM05oaeZkr2axq7i2eNZnTy-VXhmXKLy59WO4-39IEdvxuN85YNmaNVDd-zc3DVeO21h_lUgUHm8z3YJx5SBOcIutbdrMfRqL4ueRVBQA/s1600/IMG_4748.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9yEaYneP3KdNsk4rlI0Bhh-LvM6ZioZMfnspM05oaeZkr2axq7i2eNZnTy-VXhmXKLy59WO4-39IEdvxuN85YNmaNVDd-zc3DVeO21h_lUgUHm8z3YJx5SBOcIutbdrMfRqL4ueRVBQA/s640/IMG_4748.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<br /></h2>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
I cook home-made dinners almost every night. </h2>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I really enjoy having a hot dinner ready for my family because it is one way that I like to show I care. It is also fun to make new recipes and have my boys help me cook. Creating healthy habits is important and the family time that comes with a hot dinner together doesn't get much better. There are some nights that I would rather pick up some takeout but it would create a completely different atmosphere in my home. These dinners are anticipated and loved by the entire family. </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<br /></h2>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
I will NEVER allow my boys to quit. </h2>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Dedication is an important character trait that I hope my children grasp with both hands. We discuss every extracurricular activity and sport prior to us registering or joining because there is always the understanding that we will be making a commitment that will not be broken. Cub Scouts, Soccer, Football, Boys on the Run and 100 Mile Club. These are all activities that my kids participate and they know they are expected to be a reliable team player. They will show up to practices and games and they will always be good sports, whether they win or lose. I am proud to say that they both have received awards for being a "Christ-like" player.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeRX1f3emU3COhModFyawlOvmTJeiXoZbShVfk3L3amPtbSquwT22IbGzytdXdEWKBt8s3HawvKtPg6gycB85z4oZHQvI7302Aty_CR1OteZ1XfB1I0zUlw4zA-4cBqxzdH363Mo2mbZM/s1600/IMG_4723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeRX1f3emU3COhModFyawlOvmTJeiXoZbShVfk3L3amPtbSquwT22IbGzytdXdEWKBt8s3HawvKtPg6gycB85z4oZHQvI7302Aty_CR1OteZ1XfB1I0zUlw4zA-4cBqxzdH363Mo2mbZM/s640/IMG_4723.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<br /></h2>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
I am crafty. </h2>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I have thrown together turkey shifts and ugly sweaters. I have crafted saint costumes from curtains, pillow cases and eyeliner. I am proud to say that last minute projects are one of those things I happen to excel.Taking the time and effort to make crafts and personalized items makes my boys feel special and I love to do it. I enjoy doing arts and crafts with the boys, in fact, we have coloring nights all the time! We pick out a movie, make some snacks and pull out all the crayons, colored pencils, markers and paper. We push play and it's a coloring-fest for the next few hours.</div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<br /></h2>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
I am organized, at least I try to be organized. </h2>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I utilize a planner, <a href="http://www.cozi.com/?c=SASFree_1464623&utm_source=affiliatelink&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=SASFree" target="_blank">Cozi </a>and bullet journal. With all the craziness that life throws at us schedule wise, I make it happen. Everyone knows the plan for the day each day and upcoming plans for the week. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGWDirN_cUsZLSawAl7C-jYxVm8TPAtPwYS7Lcrkrc5fDFji-y3g_FAm3VcKtudDgQkrcVHI-e6Y5IwmHqRK-kLtdb86_MgCsSACYl2NiNrf5fRKkd996_TmU9szB_S35JwBXTPJzVBcQ/s1600/IMG_4483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGWDirN_cUsZLSawAl7C-jYxVm8TPAtPwYS7Lcrkrc5fDFji-y3g_FAm3VcKtudDgQkrcVHI-e6Y5IwmHqRK-kLtdb86_MgCsSACYl2NiNrf5fRKkd996_TmU9szB_S35JwBXTPJzVBcQ/s640/IMG_4483.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<br /></h2>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
I am teaching them to be good Catholics.</h2>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This is the most important thing that I can do for my children. Dressing them in their Sunday Best every Sunday for Mass, teaching them the Commandments, Beatitudes, Acts of Mercy and following the Golden Rule. These are things that I am teaching them in their everyday life through examples and correcting them when they stray off the path of righteousness. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
I am a volunteer.</h2>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I volunteer to help at school functions, at our church, Cub Scouts and the kids' extracurricular activities. I want my children to have me by their sides and able to be a full participant in their achievements. This can sometimes be difficult since I work but I try my best and offer up the difficult times up to God.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2-cSHR9XaHhzuQnIpVaxLXeiw9UfSYTWyJmj7tmS6NkoGIyNdh_TfmxKjUp596b817ThT13nCexYL04AtJZBDaYavdAgDi42v4oHLyU4ldyLCJATKSwTXoDbbp7nJmlqB6ODt4iOE0pI/s1600/16215476_1350221431687755_161958495_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2-cSHR9XaHhzuQnIpVaxLXeiw9UfSYTWyJmj7tmS6NkoGIyNdh_TfmxKjUp596b817ThT13nCexYL04AtJZBDaYavdAgDi42v4oHLyU4ldyLCJATKSwTXoDbbp7nJmlqB6ODt4iOE0pI/s400/16215476_1350221431687755_161958495_n.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Tag- You're it!</h2>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I am challenging these bloggers to join me in the #RockingMotherhood Challenge! Check them out!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Alicia from <a href="http://www.sweepingupjoy.com/" target="_blank">Sweeping Up Joy</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Ginny from <a href="http://www.notsoformulaic.com/" target="_blank">Not So Formulaic</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Anni from <a href="https://beautifulcamouflage.com/" target="_blank">Beautiful, Camouflaged Mess of a Life</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Allison from <a href="http://www.reconciledtoyou.com/index.html" target="_blank">Reconciled to You</a></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-16405270837011299772017-02-18T09:51:00.002-07:002017-02-18T09:51:37.436-07:00Catholic Style: Planner and Bullet Journal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjopA2BAOFDcmuy7lv8MHdkDIhhzpTiT-MRvJWkxadWkSfnxfxOI9sjyllbtm1Oz_eMtsvYAn3ENRVg4vtUV62tDF8aDAd17IIj5i6vBXYrRngDOi7OcMfk75JSxCHvtOhBX0mailRWq-4/s1600/IMG_4863.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjopA2BAOFDcmuy7lv8MHdkDIhhzpTiT-MRvJWkxadWkSfnxfxOI9sjyllbtm1Oz_eMtsvYAn3ENRVg4vtUV62tDF8aDAd17IIj5i6vBXYrRngDOi7OcMfk75JSxCHvtOhBX0mailRWq-4/s640/IMG_4863.PNG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Have you jumped into the Bullet Journal craze yet? If not, I think you should consider giving it a try. I am a mommy that is responsible for a lot of planning in my household and I am sure many of you can relate whether you are a mom, dad, student or just a busy person.<br />
<br />
<i>This post may contain affiliate links that I receive a small commission. It does not change the price for you but it is a small blessing to my family. All opinions are my own.</i><br />
<br />
I am responsible myself for keeping track of my work schedule, which varies since I work in a restaurant, my doctor appointments (I was born with Spina Bifida so they have been pretty frequent lately and can include physical therapy and pain management) and scheduling myself time for myself to enjoy my workouts, hobbies and volunteer commitments. My children are your normal crazy kids that want to be involved in everything: altar serving, football, soccer, Cub Scouts and extra curricular school activities. To make things even more exciting, my youngest son is developmentally delayed and has weekly speech, occupational, behavioral and group therapies. In addition to the craziness I just described, I am also responsible for planning our family meals and running errands because my husband works 60+ hours a week and commutes 90 minutes each way to work. We are also a Catholic family, so that means we set aside time for prayers, devotions, Mass and the Sacraments. Now I am sure that you are probably reading this and thinking that I must be completely crazy to juggle the schedule that I just described but nowadays it is the norm to be extremely busy and feel stretched thin at times<br />
<br />
Now, I am not going to convince you that the Bullet Journal is the answer to every families needs but it has certainly made a HUGE difference in mine! Not only has it become essential to my planning routine but it is relaxing and can be a great tool to increase your faith! If you are a little weary, don't be! I will be sharing some of my page layouts and explaining why I have decided to include them in my Bullet Journal. If you are convinced to try this system out, do not feel obligated to include every page layout in your system. The beauty of the bullet journal is that it is something that can be personalized to your unique needs.<br />
<br />
I have always been a lover of organization and I have always utilized a planner even before including a Bullet Journal as a supplemental planning tool. To make my system a little easier to understand you first need to know how my planner is put together so I am going to divide this into two sections to make it easier to refer to as a template for your own planning needs.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Schedule Planner:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj91i07dz81Z_FZtbjtoJTHrWgqZU4RuVR_joo1fCmWhlhd2917ByEIqO2NUU_nPB8gy_2ceAsp48K4hqGplXwBZug6E8tKaSrMHIq7AZOX28eIdCb6Tm61dNJvhCF7V1cHuPVWZ8RXej4/s1600/IMG_4855.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj91i07dz81Z_FZtbjtoJTHrWgqZU4RuVR_joo1fCmWhlhd2917ByEIqO2NUU_nPB8gy_2ceAsp48K4hqGplXwBZug6E8tKaSrMHIq7AZOX28eIdCb6Tm61dNJvhCF7V1cHuPVWZ8RXej4/s640/IMG_4855.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTYCyO0JaQjxIDeChyoOSYAhAJNf9LiRvOTL2daKcH-iz_t_hr261B1eXYWVXBgqV-PfbrPv21kaKJpZx4_R5yo7-rL9CnXeUVMYQ64BctOb1h-sKK42sTRZF_xW6eOjgo3v4W-tc-AQ0/s1600/IMG_4856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTYCyO0JaQjxIDeChyoOSYAhAJNf9LiRvOTL2daKcH-iz_t_hr261B1eXYWVXBgqV-PfbrPv21kaKJpZx4_R5yo7-rL9CnXeUVMYQ64BctOb1h-sKK42sTRZF_xW6eOjgo3v4W-tc-AQ0/s640/IMG_4856.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Some things to consider in your planner and how you need it to be utilized to be the most beneficial to you and your purposes:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1: How do you keep track of your schedule and the schedules of those you are responsible?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
2. How detailed do you need your planner?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
3. Do you use multiple planners? Print and/or electronic? Both?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I use a planner that has times written down each day and color code the events that are written in the planner. I also make sure to write the corresponding times even though there is spaces between the times to make sure I do not make myself late to something on accident. I do not normally include end times though because as a hospitality worker I know that NOTHING ends on time. You can only estimate which would add additional planning so start times work best for me.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEiWsZIAdYLSMlVocFROpFDc5hLZcLxzPCXEtf6mXY9qNCEq6NUKewW_0qy6HWxrgrhtgwRNK48Ee-zZtDkX6GoBfOYj5F35Aa1WH8-fJU8bLSvRBu30N3g0IdOiFjQz60xPVySF1Dx1EjHynw3w9KD6OgVSLQ2fAg=s0-d-e1-ft" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cozi" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEiWsZIAdYLSMlVocFROpFDc5hLZcLxzPCXEtf6mXY9qNCEq6NUKewW_0qy6HWxrgrhtgwRNK48Ee-zZtDkX6GoBfOYj5F35Aa1WH8-fJU8bLSvRBu30N3g0IdOiFjQz60xPVySF1Dx1EjHynw3w9KD6OgVSLQ2fAg=s0-d-e1-ft" /></a>I also stated that I have recently started utilizing a bullet journal but I also use an online planner called <a href="http://www.cozi.com/?c=SASFree_1464623&utm_source=affiliatelink&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=SASFree" target="_blank">Cozi</a> to have reminders sent to me daily as well. <a href="http://www.cozi.com/?c=SASFree_1464623&utm_source=affiliatelink&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=SASFree" target="_blank">Cozi </a>is a great family app that allows your entire family to access the family schedule through a shared family password. The amazing thing is anyone can add, delete or update an event and you can send a notification so everyone that is attending will be made aware. You also have the option to set reminders before events occur just in case you need to have a warning before you move on through your schedule. There is a place to record your grocery list, find recipes and so much more. I highly suggest checking it out, especially since the basic package is FREE and can be downloaded on to your smart phone! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Here is my color code system:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Me- Pink</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Husband- Light Blue</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Kids- Dark Blue</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>School Event- Orange</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Important/ Need to Remember- Red</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Church- Liturgical Season Color (Advent/ Lent- Purple, Ordinary Time- Green, etc)</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Bill Due Dates- Light Green</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Black/Brown: Menu</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
As I mentioned earlier, I do keep track of Liturgical Calendar events in my planner. It helps me plan our menu and family activities. It is the first thing I write each month when I am getting organized for each new month.<br />
<br />
As you can see from this exert from my planner that there is room for me to write "scheduled" events but not much room for writing to-do lists, errands or other important things such as book lists, blog ideas, exercise routines water intake and so much more. What about ways to hold yourself accountable to your prayers? attending Mass? Adoration? Devotions? Fellowship? That is where the Bullet Journal comes in to play.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Bullet Journal:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
A Bullet Journal has no defined order. No necessary inclusions. It is completely your creation used in any way that you deem important. For me, creating healthy habits is vitally important.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_4oAB9-vlOPGmz3zQCMPllE205rmK7xEORGDTwyB2GDi1_Hkd8hlv90q3c8UHDcjin8oTOwFfKw7wC5tLwbs3MJ6VuhKHSbJOVrQKztXQeKupqa5bexrnjBSbhjFpOfNEWvZZ7YKbBdU/s1600/IMG_4598.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_4oAB9-vlOPGmz3zQCMPllE205rmK7xEORGDTwyB2GDi1_Hkd8hlv90q3c8UHDcjin8oTOwFfKw7wC5tLwbs3MJ6VuhKHSbJOVrQKztXQeKupqa5bexrnjBSbhjFpOfNEWvZZ7YKbBdU/s640/IMG_4598.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Habit Tracker: A Habit Tracker is one of my favorite ways to increase my good habit making decisions and have a physical copy of things that I can visually look at, to see my strengths and weaknesses. You could also utilize this to help with Natural Family Planning as well. This habit tracker is a monthly one that I really did like but I decided that things I am unable to do everyday, such as, Confession, Adoration and attending Mass should be included on my weekly spreads since it is something I tend to do weekly versus daily. Praying the Rosary and other daily prayers could easily be included in a Monthly Habit Tracker like the one above.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6kgA7DzAjWIaJWiQcB-Sruz8ym1zodcQ4IBc8HclxU7Gr_JgRYaBuYWyyM_4eAQmmfIH8WxF80XWWNcyT8NltrGl9uYvJXiH5w6Co-UUgbXz4EuVIXsx8SafCxWrzC7gj1_hHE85cEYk/s1600/IMG_4596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6kgA7DzAjWIaJWiQcB-Sruz8ym1zodcQ4IBc8HclxU7Gr_JgRYaBuYWyyM_4eAQmmfIH8WxF80XWWNcyT8NltrGl9uYvJXiH5w6Co-UUgbXz4EuVIXsx8SafCxWrzC7gj1_hHE85cEYk/s640/IMG_4596.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Reading Challenge: Reading is one of my hobbies and an essential aspect of growing my faith. Included in my Reading Challenge for this year is <a href="https://pinotnoirandprayers.blogspot.com/2017/01/my-experience-walk-in-her-sandals.html" target="_blank">A Walk in Her Sandals</a> and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017PNWU20?ie=UTF8&tag=pinotnoirandp-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B017PNWU20" target="_blank">Rediscover Jesus</a>. Many of the books that I have been pulled to read are devotionals or are inspirational. This Reading Challenge layout is suppose to look like a library and I am coloring in each book as I finish reading them. You could modify this layout to contain the devotionals and bible studies you would like to complete throughout the year.<br />
<a href="http://www.fatima.org/exclusives/pdf/12millionrosaries.pdf" target="_blank"><br /></a>
<a href="http://www.fatima.org/exclusives/pdf/12millionrosaries.pdf" target="_blank">Rosary Tracker</a>: I'll admit that this tracker I actually found online and just printed it small enough to fit on the inside cover of my bujo. If you follow the link it will take you to a PDF that you could also utilize in the same fashion or you could go ahead and draw a similar copy if you prefer. With this being the 100 year celebration of Fatima, there is no better time to get on your daily family rosaries.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjviPlgD5DX7HWHY8RMXAtXO5W0QP3HS6TNv2zTSNJUJeORLjfxDWVc0ILQzai67XRqwM_m9e7tfelbAYcb0Cw2PrfQ276oq8P4h8RTiNFExRjXruk7avELHo3NSroUTt_1Uqa_TSTT3UY/s1600/IMG_4864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="556" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjviPlgD5DX7HWHY8RMXAtXO5W0QP3HS6TNv2zTSNJUJeORLjfxDWVc0ILQzai67XRqwM_m9e7tfelbAYcb0Cw2PrfQ276oq8P4h8RTiNFExRjXruk7avELHo3NSroUTt_1Uqa_TSTT3UY/s640/IMG_4864.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Weekly Layout: My weekly layouts are used to create to-do lists and keep track of when I attend my Sacraments. I keep things simple and try to utilize the same color code I mentioned is in my regular planner so my organization flows more easily but sometimes I have to jot down an errand or idea with whatever writing utensil is readily available.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Adoration Intentions: It is so easy to create a list of intentions to bring with you to Adoration and to know you have a location to jot down a friend or family members special prayer requests. If you ever see my posts asking for your requests, you can guarantee I write them out so that they are with me. I also revisit these requests each time I attend the Sacrament of Adoration. This layout is similar to the ones I've already shared but because several of the intentions I have written on my list are personal for myself and several others I decided not to share.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Obviously, the layouts that can be included in a Bullet Journal are infinite. Anything you dream up can be included in your unique journal. I would also like to point out that my Bullet Journal pages are not works of art. I have seen some absolutely beautiful pages on <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pinotnoirprayer/" target="_blank">Pinterest </a>and in Bullet Journal Groups I participate. If you are not artsy, do not allow that to push you away from trying out this great organizational tool. The purpose of these tools is to make yourself more accountable and organized. I would love to see some of the beautiful Catholic style layouts you design in your bullet journals and feel free to share how you use your planners. Are there designs you would like to to create? Just ask and I'll do my best to help find or create something that can help you.<br />
<br />
God Bless!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-64269865149379183002017-02-02T20:54:00.002-07:002017-02-02T20:54:48.419-07:00#WorthRevisit: Saint Brigid of IrelandI'm a little late but I really wanted to share a post from the archives about Saint Brigid of Ireland! Her feast day was yesterday but I think it is acceptable to recognize her throughout the month of February. I am still playing vatch up from not having a working computer and planning our Lenten season ! Here is my <a href="http://reconciledtoyou.com/blog/3-unexpected-uses-for-the-rosary" target="_blank">#WorthRevisit</a> with <a href="https://theologyisaverb.com/2017/01/31/worth-revisiting-grace-circumstance/" target="_blank">Theology is a Verb</a> and <a href="http://reconciledtoyou.com/blog/3-unexpected-uses-for-the-rosary" target="_blank">Reconciled to You:</a><br />
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="font-family: Pacifico; font-size: 30px; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;">
The Feast of Saint Brigid of Ireland</h3>
<div class="post-header" style="font-size: 12.6px; line-height: 1.6; margin: 0px 0px 1.5em;">
<div class="post-header-line-1">
</div>
</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-8494686280506358777" itemprop="description articleBody" style="font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 1.4; position: relative; width: 662px;">
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HFcWDNkQv-E/Uu3A9y4rYzI/AAAAAAAALeY/9qHu918slgE/s1600/IMG_20140201_184142_057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #8a055e; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HFcWDNkQv-E/Uu3A9y4rYzI/AAAAAAAALeY/9qHu918slgE/s1600/IMG_20140201_184142_057.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="640" /></a></div>
<br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;">Today is the Feast of Saint Brigid! Yesterday was the Feast of John Bosco too but we were unable to do more than a coloring page and read a few stories in his honor. </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;">As a side note, I would really like to watch Saint John Bosco: Mission to Love and Don Bosco! I have heard amazing things about these movies but have not been lucky to find somewhere to rent them. </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;">On the Eve of Saint Brigid (Saint John Bosco's Feast Day) there is a tradition in Ireland to tie a piece of cloth and leave a piece of oaten bread in the shape of a cross outside for Saint Brigid. The story says that Brigid will bless the cloth (becoming Brigid's Mantle) and her red eared cow will enjoy the bread during their journey. I really wanted to start this special tradition but had to work with the materials I had available for the cloth outside I used leftover red ribbon. I tied it to the mailbox. We also did not have the ingredients to make oaten bread so I used one of the extra not iced cupcakes from our Baptism Anniversary and drew a cross on top and placed it on the porch. </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;" /><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nkAWFsPeQio/Uu3A9yq5ToI/AAAAAAAALeY/qjDjLv-yCnA/s1600/IMG_20140201_152725_310.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; clear: left; color: #8a055e; float: left; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nkAWFsPeQio/Uu3A9yq5ToI/AAAAAAAALeY/qjDjLv-yCnA/s640/IMG_20140201_152725_310.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="360" /></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;">In the morning, Little Man checked the front yard after I woke up to check and see if Saint Brigid had come with her cow. It was so cute, Squishy ran after him and said "WOW! Mommy, where'd it go?!" The cupcake was gone and the ribbon had been untied and placed in our mailbox. I was surprised myself but I know this will have to become a regular custom on the Eve of Saint Brigid. Next year I'd like to bake some oaten bread!</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;">Today we also went Goofy golfing with some great friends! Squishy did such a good job following the rules and taking turns! After two rounds of golf we ended our visit with Root beer floats and headed home to make our Saint Brigid Crosses and color our coloring pages.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;">At some point, I would like to make Saint Brigid's crosses to pass out at a Nursing home or at the Hospital too. Saint Brigid had such love for the poor and elderly and I think would make the boys smile to see how an act of kindness can help someone, even someone they don't know. This year was my first time trying to make a Saint Brigid Cross and it was much simpler than I thought. At the top is a picture of the cross I made for my house and the one below is a picture of the one Little Man made. The pipe cleaners we used made the construction a little easier but Squishy did not have the patience to build one and fell asleep on the couch for his afternoon nap while Little Man and I worked. While we were crafting, I found the cutest youtube video with a retelling of Brigid's Cloak. I tried to find a copy at our local library but they did not have a copy so I will be purchasing it soon.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;">After we completed our crosses we blessed them with holy water and prayed Saint Brigid's Blessing. I still have not had the time to go grocery shopping since the bad weather so I will have to try some of the traditional Irish recipes I found another time. </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;" /><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-euqt8gv1StA/Uu3A9408qBI/AAAAAAAALeY/YtsTw3ULvCM/s1600/IMG_20140201_185638_914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #8a055e; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-euqt8gv1StA/Uu3A9408qBI/AAAAAAAALeY/YtsTw3ULvCM/s640/IMG_20140201_185638_914.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="640" /></a></div>
<br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;" /><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<b><i>May Brigid bless the house wherein you dwell</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<b><i>Bless every fireside every wall and door</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<b><i>Bless every heart that beats beneath its roof</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<b><i>Bless every hand that toils to bring it joy</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<b><i>Bless every foot that walks its portals through</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<b><i>May Brigid bless the house that shelters you.</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<b><i>Amen.</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<b>Saint Brigid, pray for us!</b></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-14493751109500315622017-01-30T17:03:00.000-07:002017-01-30T17:03:19.790-07:00Menu Plan Monday: January 30 - February 5<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxUlqtVrutDo0HW2EtjZi3fn6aYE6Uit5824U5UMZY3bo5tdeTVirF5vCJQ5r0Ya3xej1wdTNo0T7egohEpCasMpBS1pyEIe-pU4tIvGEdIfV9ZAqw5U_YfEAV9lA6GzQZGgBoEIfqYY/s1600/MPM-Winter.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxUlqtVrutDo0HW2EtjZi3fn6aYE6Uit5824U5UMZY3bo5tdeTVirF5vCJQ5r0Ya3xej1wdTNo0T7egohEpCasMpBS1pyEIe-pU4tIvGEdIfV9ZAqw5U_YfEAV9lA6GzQZGgBoEIfqYY/s640/MPM-Winter.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: left;">
Life has been throwing some serious curve-balls and my family lately: some good and some bad and this month I am getting ready to tackle all of these changes head on. If you were unaware, we received an "unofficial" diagnosis of Aspergers for Goalie and I have been undergoing treatment for complications with my Spina Bifida. I still have Christmas lights adorning our patio and I am sure our neighbors are starting to wonder if they are ever coming down. At least I am within the Liturgical season if I have them down by Candlemas, which happens to be this week.</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: left;">
In happier news, we are heading into spring football and soccer season and we have been having some wonderful family adventures lately. I am trying out new things, such as utilizing a bullet journal as an accompaniment to my planner, starting a new workout regiment and probably what you are most interested in: revamping our menus! I am preparing for our upcoming Lenten season and just really enjoying where we are in life.</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: left;">
Here is our menu for <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2017/01/menu-plan-monday-jan-3017.html" target="_blank">Menu Plan Monday</a>:</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<b>Monday:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
Spaghetti</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<b>Tuesday: Feast of Saint John Bosco</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
Stuffed Peppers</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<b>Wednesday: Feast of Saint Brigid of Ireland</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
Corned Beef and Cabbage</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<b>Thursday: Candlemas</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
Golden Mushroom Chicken with Quinoa and Salad</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<b>Friday: Feast of Saint Blaise</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
Soup and Salad</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<b>Saturday:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
Leftover Dinner Buffet or Pulled BBQ Chicken Sandwiches</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<b>Sunday: Super Bowl Sunday</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
Super Bowl Sunday Party!</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: left;">
Have you ever celebrated Candlemas? It is also called the Presentation of the Lord and is a beautiful celebration. It is considered a Christmas celebration so if you still have your decorations up from the holidays, it is completely acceptable. In honor of Candlemas, my family enjoys a special candlelight dinner. This year we will enjoy Golden Mushroom Chicken, check out the recipe below:</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<b>Golden Mushroom Chicken:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: left;">
2-3 Large Chicken Breasts</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: left;">
1 Large Onion (diced)</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: left;">
2 Cups Mushrooms</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: left;">
1 Can Golden Mushroom Soup</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: left;">
1/4 Cup White Wine</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: left;">
1 Cup Chicken Broth</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: left;">
2 Tbsp Olive Oil</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: left;">
1 Tbsp Garlic Powder</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: left;">
Salt and Pepper to taste</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<i>Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut chicken breasts in half and place the chicken into a medium sized baking dish (fit chicken in a single layer). Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Saute onion and mushrooms with olive oil. In small mixing bowl, combine soup, wine, and 1 cup of chicken broth.When the sauce is complete, add the sauteed onions and mushrooms to it. Mix well and pour the sauce over chicken and put the chicken into the oven for an hour. Serve the chicken over mashed potatoes, noodles, quinoa or rice. I also like to serve this with a green vegetable like broccoli or green beans. Enjoy!</i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-88536651374457070582017-01-29T21:43:00.000-07:002017-01-29T21:43:49.598-07:00My Sunday Best: Parish Faith Night EditionIt is so amazing to be back! Our computer gave out a couple weeks ago and my cousin came to the rescue. Now to catch up with some great posts because it always happens that you are inspired while unable to share right?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK48dPeY6hJW7ADx2P-t1642aHQEhWsLFhwfAExrw2ftzHfziepXKusN1bcDfcawU8MUF3K-KGVJfF8EVgVzAIHGB7_buKa2s3j7QyO3xYgzmSYK7u7JMdpw5VUc7XRd1VBSb9Qa_m7ok/s1600/IMG_4737.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK48dPeY6hJW7ADx2P-t1642aHQEhWsLFhwfAExrw2ftzHfziepXKusN1bcDfcawU8MUF3K-KGVJfF8EVgVzAIHGB7_buKa2s3j7QyO3xYgzmSYK7u7JMdpw5VUc7XRd1VBSb9Qa_m7ok/s640/IMG_4737.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Today is the Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time and also a Parish Faith Night for our Church. Parish Faith Night is a special event that we host to help share information, fun crafts and fellowship. This particular Parish Faith Night was all about Saints and Feast Days. I was really excited that we were able to attend Parish Faith Night because we missed Mass this morning. My youngest son has been having an extremely difficult time with his emotional outbursts this week and this morning was rough to say the least. We have routines for everything to help our transitions and nothing seemed to keep Goalie in a calm disposition. We had a small talk after he completed Tiny Turtle. We came to the agreement that the wiggles and nervous feelings he was having this morning were very hard to control so we would not attend Mass but we would attend Parish Faith Night. It is sometimes very difficult to make choices like this because it does change our routine but it is better than keeping Goalie in his downward spiral of emotions he finds himself at times. He is formally diagnosed with ADHD but he is currently undergoing testing for an ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) because his school and behavioral therapist both have noted concerns that he may have Aspergers, which is a high functioning Autistic diagnosis.<br />
<br />
In case you haven't heard of Tiny Turtle before, it is a new anger management skill we have been practicing for Goalie. If you are interested in trying out "Tiny Turtle"check out these simple steps:<br />
<br />
First, form an imaginary turtle shell by curling into a little ball.<br />
Second, take at least three deep breaths.<br />
Third, say "I can do it, I can calm down" until you feel better and then you can emerge from your tiny turtle shell and move forward with your activity.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUxxlRbn4AvUnJwTvclHT3dcYDn7d17rS5BJYRQl_WybblqY9NMvOxzISIIpHE-5pYIfkKww2yEXy78ZB20I_VCW7EcK1IrkMGYB7wbw2h0N_ANXKTiLQYaMDiIkN6lCGGjL7UofQnG0E/s1600/IMG_4734.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUxxlRbn4AvUnJwTvclHT3dcYDn7d17rS5BJYRQl_WybblqY9NMvOxzISIIpHE-5pYIfkKww2yEXy78ZB20I_VCW7EcK1IrkMGYB7wbw2h0N_ANXKTiLQYaMDiIkN6lCGGjL7UofQnG0E/s640/IMG_4734.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
After a rough morning, I am happy to say that we really turned around the day and Parish Faith Night was a success! Our night was centered around the Saints and the Feast Days. To kick things off we started with an enormous pot luck dinner to start our fellowship. We had an abundance of many food, dessert and drinks. After everyone had eaten, we began a discussion with the children about Saints: What makes a Saint a Saint? Who can become a Saint? Who decides who is a Saint? Name some Saints and Feast Days. You know the saying "Kids say the darnedest things?" Well tonight was no different! So many laughs and great memories.<br />
<br />
After the discussion we went into our Saint Parade! Here are my two little Saints below: Saint Dominic and Saint Joseph!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTqhdOVDRiu67DGPNtKZIJPHakzv8aEyl2BUZaZl6gnMPh50rsQwNR8W-PVRFCFDE7q1Q7gPdR4z6bCyXoY4INGMNsrBPsWbF8pBSdaGbYU2Z3nb3ktE6LowjwR2HLHJkK63tBcHRkmQg/s1600/IMG_4723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTqhdOVDRiu67DGPNtKZIJPHakzv8aEyl2BUZaZl6gnMPh50rsQwNR8W-PVRFCFDE7q1Q7gPdR4z6bCyXoY4INGMNsrBPsWbF8pBSdaGbYU2Z3nb3ktE6LowjwR2HLHJkK63tBcHRkmQg/s640/IMG_4723.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
In addition to all of our fun events we also incorporated some printables for the families present to work on together. Check out Catholic Icing has an amazing <a href="http://www.catholicicing.com/making-a-family-litany-of-saints-with-catholic-kids-printable/" target="_blank">Family Litany of Saints Worksheet</a> that we discussed and there were also All Saints coloring pages. You can check out my <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pinotnoirprayer/" target="_blank">Pinterest </a>page if you are looking for some great Catholic coloring pages.<br />
<br />
I think that my most favorite part of the evening was being able to sing The Litany of Saints with my two little saints and just be in the moment of peace and fellowship with my parish. I am so glad that the evening was a success and I am looking forward to the next Parish Faith Night in March!<br />
<br />
Now that the night is over, I am enjoying a glass of wine with my husband! I am linking this post to <a href="http://rosie-ablogformymom.blogspot.com/2017/01/my-sunday-best-vol-40-birthday-girl.html" target="_blank">My Sunday Best</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKIyEYu3QA6Cdtl8K3Y-5QSflxBgRQfkyC8EVrnMCCCmKGvtbW8K5okhOSBf5tqnWFQxAgjy95qaXNMSfUGbPnADvdfGmzYrZ3oaQzzbpOAVcTUP7kQR1PGCGG97A5na_w0YobqTIoBdA/s1600/IMG_4735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKIyEYu3QA6Cdtl8K3Y-5QSflxBgRQfkyC8EVrnMCCCmKGvtbW8K5okhOSBf5tqnWFQxAgjy95qaXNMSfUGbPnADvdfGmzYrZ3oaQzzbpOAVcTUP7kQR1PGCGG97A5na_w0YobqTIoBdA/s640/IMG_4735.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
God Bless!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-11893200596352103852017-01-29T13:21:00.001-07:002017-01-29T13:21:21.990-07:00My Experience: A Walk in Her Sandals<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
I was blessed to receive a copy of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1594716919?ie=UTF8&tag=pinotnoirandp-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=1594716919" target="_blank">A Walk in Her Sandals: Experiencing Christ's Passion through the Eyes of Women</a> in exchange for my honest reaction and review.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As the month of January comes to a close, I have been contemplating some resolutions I made for myself this year. Reading more, creating fellowship through my parish and striving to improve my relationship with God were among these resolutions. I came across a book that touched all areas that were important to me and I am happy and honored to share what I have learned in hopes that you will take the chance of reading and sharing your experience as well. This book is a special devotion created especially for women to follow through the Lenten season.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0ktXyEmOx_OOKYDJzVqs4PAClNOtRutQkESrmh_xD-CrqTxnmF9cJBV83AYYnkxSJghYjR_dRffdHqocRmyXlui_CQ6U5qOo07y4LOu4_r29l-uf9XcDqNnb56xS_P_ilh2sk4o6p48/s1600/Walk-in-her-Sandals-final-cover-400x600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0ktXyEmOx_OOKYDJzVqs4PAClNOtRutQkESrmh_xD-CrqTxnmF9cJBV83AYYnkxSJghYjR_dRffdHqocRmyXlui_CQ6U5qOo07y4LOu4_r29l-uf9XcDqNnb56xS_P_ilh2sk4o6p48/s640/Walk-in-her-Sandals-final-cover-400x600.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Christ's Passion has always been an emotional topic for me. In high school I participated in a Youth Group that hosted the Stations of the Cross during Lent and no matter what I did, I would weep as I read the station I was assigned to share. As a women, I often hear the words empathetic, loving and emotional as a description of my experiences in life. Sometimes it can seem as if these words are thrown at us in a negative manner but I am here to tell you that they are special qualities that we, as women, have been blessed with by God. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1594716919?ie=UTF8&tag=pinotnoirandp-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=1594716919" target="_blank">A Walk in Her Sandals</a> not only explains these amazing gifts in descriptive detail but will make you proud to embrace these qualities while opening your eyes to a new perception of our Savior's Passion that will touch your heart in a very unique way.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Suffering is a part of life. It will touch every person on this earth at some point, multiple times throughout their life. Men and women experience and deal with pain and suffering in different ways, it is how God created us. The Passion of Jesus is an experience of suffering and pain that is so deeply touching that it can reach anyone receptive to its true message on some level. It reveals itself to us in our own sufferings as daughters, mothers and women. It is time for us to come together in a fellowship of womanhood and embrace each other as we grow in faith by sharing our stories of suffering, love and enlightenment. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This book is not just a book, it is an adventure. An adventure that you can chose to take alone or in the sweet embrace of a group.On this adventure, you will be introduced to Anah, Huldah, Miriam, Veronica, and Zilpah and experience these special women and their encounters with Jesus. There are special, intimate stories shared from the author and a deep look into the scripture. As if these inspiring factors weren't enough, there are Questions for Group Discussion that you could discuss with a group or answer within your prayer journal.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtCZqWTeKMEsaJ1bvK8XUaNRuVjRiWxnEvW1kXU252ScIS6GTTA67l_PAEmp1c8rpnol9sYjFk4wH096aNYLNzrbWrG74cCdM4GzrqY0ZnrMmQUu2Mfnm_oievfbatNq6vv7atGiT6XjI/s1600/cwbn_orig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtCZqWTeKMEsaJ1bvK8XUaNRuVjRiWxnEvW1kXU252ScIS6GTTA67l_PAEmp1c8rpnol9sYjFk4wH096aNYLNzrbWrG74cCdM4GzrqY0ZnrMmQUu2Mfnm_oievfbatNq6vv7atGiT6XjI/s320/cwbn_orig.jpg" width="320" /></a>I honestly felt a change within me while I read this book each evening and I am looking forward to opening this book again during the Lenten Season. I was amazed by the perception and detail and of the stories and I am not afraid to admit that I cried through every chapter. I cried tears of love, joy and understanding and loved every minute of it.<br />
<br />
I am often guilty of losing focus of myself, as most women are, and focusing on my children and husband most of the time. Use this Lenten season to grow your faith with this truly amazing book. I would love to hear about your experience as you start your adventure too.<br />
<br />
Interested in learning more? I am working with some extraordinary women that took on this book and all the touching stories are being shared at the <a href="http://www.reconciledtoyou.com/cwbn-blog-hop.html" target="_blank">CWBN Blog Hop</a>. Make sure to hop over and see what other women learned during their reflections.<br />
<br />
Start planning how to host your own Lenten Book Club or join <a href="http://womeninthenewevangelization.com/wine/index.php/bookclub-2/" target="_blank">Between the Wines: Lenten Book Club</a> hosted on WINE (Women in the New Evangelization) online featuring Walk in Her Sandals. Since I completed this book alone the first time, I am looking forward to starting a book club or joining one for my second experience.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-48632065858000897062017-01-11T09:00:00.000-07:002017-01-11T09:00:24.278-07:00#WorthRevisit: Saint Perpetua and FelicityI have been sucked into the bullet journal craze recently and I will be sharing my special faith page layouts and other ways I have decided to utilize this great organizing system to help me grow my faith. While I have been contemplating these things, I thought I would share a post from the archives about two saints that always revamp my dedication to my prayer journal and planners. Here is my #WorthRevisit with <a href="https://theologyisaverb.com/" target="_blank">Theology is a Verb</a> and <a href="http://www.reconciledtoyou.com/blog.html" target="_blank">Reconciled to You</a>:<br />
<br />
<h2 class="date-header" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 0px; position: relative;">
<span style="background-color: #bbbbbb; color: white; letter-spacing: 3px; margin: inherit; padding: 0.4em;">Monday, March 7, 2016</span></h2>
<div class="date-posts" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">
<div class="post-outer">
<div class="post hentry uncustomized-post-template" itemprop="blogPost" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://schema.org/BlogPosting" style="margin: 0px 0px 45px; min-height: 0px; position: relative;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="5356074558746775429"></a><h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="font-family: Pacifico; font-size: 30px; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;">
Saint Perpetua and Felicity</h3>
<div class="post-header" style="font-size: 12.6px; line-height: 1.6; margin: 0px 0px 1.5em;">
<div class="post-header-line-1">
</div>
</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-5356074558746775429" itemprop="description articleBody" style="font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 1.4; position: relative; width: 662px;">
Monday already!<br /><div>
<br /><div>
Wow... My family has an insane week ahead of us! Football and Soccer start this week for All Star and Goalie. I am waiting on the soccer schedule but football is 4 days a week! All Star also has Picture Day and a Reading Goal party to attend this week. So while I wait for the rest of our scheduling to fall into place for this month, I REALLY need to clean out our vehicles, sanitize all the team sports gear and pack one of the vehicles with seats, blankets and the sports gear :) Its going to be a fun day because, <b>of course</b> I waited until the day before everything starts to get this accomplished. At least I will easily complete one of my 40 bags today for Lent. </div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Moving forward... today is the feast of <a href="http://www.torchlighters.org/episodes/index.php?episode=Perpetua&display=resources" style="color: #8a055e; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Saint Perpetua and Felicity</a>. They have a wonderful animated movie that portrays the story of these two amazing Saints. If you click the link above you will be taken to a website where you can purchase the movie and find some great resources for today, including coloring pages, word search, games and other fun activities. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAAhSoX9_Z62C5JUrqCreyrSpPiI9wrkeczpbJMzLsoHLkReFPkMa5GhwbJpDld0PaWCxG0UFwm-5Grlac_OyLvWFu4ciimirTFk_BNswnG3VqrSo4N7yOvTlsSY4TTKXNFG6-nTWKcqo/s1600/IMG_0515.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; color: #8a055e; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAAhSoX9_Z62C5JUrqCreyrSpPiI9wrkeczpbJMzLsoHLkReFPkMa5GhwbJpDld0PaWCxG0UFwm-5Grlac_OyLvWFu4ciimirTFk_BNswnG3VqrSo4N7yOvTlsSY4TTKXNFG6-nTWKcqo/s320/IMG_0515.JPG" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="240" /></a>Personally, Saint Perpetua is renowned for the journal she left behind after she was martyred. She started the journal while she was imprisoned and it was completed by a friend after her death. I think today would be a good day to start a prayer journal. Or renew your commitment to write in your prayer journal you already have... I will be renewing my commitment to write in my journal to at least 3-5 times a week. As of right now, I haven't written in my prayer journal since Advent! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Another good activity for today would be to visit a zoo. Saint Perpetua and Felicity were thrown to wild animals in an open arena. Point out the animals that would have been in the arena with them and explain how dangerous those animals are, they are in cages and have large spaces between them and you to keep everyone safe. We haven't been to the zoo in quite awhile so I will have to plan an outing soon. Using a Zoo Passport could help keep the focus on finding animals. You can find printable Zoo Passports on <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/search/pins/?q=zoo%20passport&rs=typed&0=zoo%7Ctyped&1=passport%7Ctyped" style="color: #8a055e; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> and sometimes you can find them on your local zoo's website.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Saint Perpetua and Felicity are two saints that really touch my heart. They were both young mothers, like I was myself, and imagining the difficulty of sacrificing your life and giving up your child would certainly be difficult but they did all this graciously for God. I pray that God can give me a heart like these two saints. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Reading the book <a data-amzn-asin="0972927646" href="http://www.amazon.com/Perpetua-A-Bride-Martyr-Passion/dp/0972927646/ref=pd_sim_sbs_14_2/188-8422420-7955764?ie=UTF8&dpID=410Y833MNKL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR103%2C160_&refRID=1AB9NV4G5P82DSKH0TF9" style="color: #8a055e; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Perpetua: A Bride, a Martyr, a Passion</a> would be a wonderful addition to your Lenten journey. I will be heading to the library later today in search of this gem so I have something to read this evening after all the hustle and bustle of the day. My family should be learning some news about my husband's job sometime this week so I would greatly appreciate any prayers you could send our way. We are praying that we are staying on the path God has intended for us as a family.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Stand fast in the faith, and love one another, and don't take offense at our suffering."</div>
<div>
-- Saint Perpetua</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-11349956940070824822017-01-09T23:32:00.001-07:002017-01-09T23:32:03.619-07:00My Sunday Best: Epiphany Edition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTU6s11Yebq5n01W8YIYVl-OLWZwNtnq6mZgEGUaCwwWv7IV0OVgWHupcDBnBh9rp6zrf93nJW5Uik_QNh5ztVQf143tMyYb_dGsAQ4sEYpleQXKtEuFTV1Z6O5b-QSuf8LCp1OyjQKT0/s1600/IMG_4603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTU6s11Yebq5n01W8YIYVl-OLWZwNtnq6mZgEGUaCwwWv7IV0OVgWHupcDBnBh9rp6zrf93nJW5Uik_QNh5ztVQf143tMyYb_dGsAQ4sEYpleQXKtEuFTV1Z6O5b-QSuf8LCp1OyjQKT0/s640/IMG_4603.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Three Kings Day! The Epiphany! Theophany! The Twelfth Night! Little Christmas! </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
No matter what you call it, it is indeed a feast that needs to be celebrated in style. It is the night that the Three Kings found the Christ Child lying in a manger beneath the star of Bethlehem. We display of entire Nativity scene on our home altar and light our Christ Candle all day to honor this amazing day.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This was our first Mass of the New Year. We have been fighting some nasty stomach bugs, coughs, ear infections and sore throats over our Christmas break so it was an awesome way to start our Epiphany celebration at Mass. As you can see from the picture above, the boys rocked their new outfits they received for Christmas again. They love their ties, new shoes and the whole ensemble so who am I to say no to kids that want to wear their very best? I on the other hand, did not have my Sunday Best on... I am still not feeling so well so I wore more comfortable clothes: A huge sweater and jeans with nice boots. Therefore, I did not honor this outfit with a picture.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbTfrTDKQmtUp4SOtCiZSbMuHJ24uuZiJQLO8KBmp0zGnjg1OTls3LtBRPAmuaml3L_zMqBLMsVuwuVDwFUZ7Rb26xwKTxWU3EiMwk-V6yKm-nIF7vi9qf-46xxGKdiZ95E6Qlhdml0e8/s1600/IMG_4483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbTfrTDKQmtUp4SOtCiZSbMuHJ24uuZiJQLO8KBmp0zGnjg1OTls3LtBRPAmuaml3L_zMqBLMsVuwuVDwFUZ7Rb26xwKTxWU3EiMwk-V6yKm-nIF7vi9qf-46xxGKdiZ95E6Qlhdml0e8/s640/IMG_4483.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After Faith Formation and Mass I headed straight to the grocery store to get some special Epiphany donuts and the ingredients for our special dinner. If you checkout out my <a href="https://pinotnoirandprayers.blogspot.com/2017/01/menu-plan-monday-january-2-january-8.html" target="_blank">Menu Plan Monday Post</a> from earlier in the week, I had something else listed as our dinner for the Epiphany but I came up with a neat idea that incorporated the Three Kings and the Star of Bethlehem. I made Chicken A La King with Star of Bethlehem Biscuits!</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We enjoyed an orange juice toast with some yummy donuts before throwing together dinner in the crock pot and enjoying a Family Epiphany nap. When we woke up I got started on those Star of Bethlehem Biscuits! All I did was take a can of Buttermilk biscuits and stretch them out so I could use our Christmas Star cookie cutter to make these festive biscuits for dinner.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-vQ12LwlZTJFaiuasyaUT_L0dUQLUXvAu9ig2g80GLcg2mNwyk3PXX4xsUpzpvX9uR91fvKUC5aVID_QHoIVZ0_LHRook9W-n1jWQtbhONKyIAK6pvnY3xtyRGcpDiS3Kw4M6OUY88dk/s1600/IMG_4615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-vQ12LwlZTJFaiuasyaUT_L0dUQLUXvAu9ig2g80GLcg2mNwyk3PXX4xsUpzpvX9uR91fvKUC5aVID_QHoIVZ0_LHRook9W-n1jWQtbhONKyIAK6pvnY3xtyRGcpDiS3Kw4M6OUY88dk/s640/IMG_4615.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Have you ever heard of Chicken a La King? It is similar to a Chicken and Dumplings recipe but instead of dumplings, the Chicken and veggie mixture is served over a puff pastry. I just tweaked the recipe and pour our Chicken and vegetables over biscuits shaped liked stars. Can you see the hiding stars?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL7CdhBBNxWokcJ5cGpKSZE8fDvmNb1UOa5S64NI15xIjCfzc1BH8092uxXuu0kPq4EBca0SqfHtM-d9RTm4M8xOpkllyX6scOJDDW7EvT0GDXk4G7a08thsik-X7Zc3AsjsL4SA9Vzj0/s1600/IMG_4616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL7CdhBBNxWokcJ5cGpKSZE8fDvmNb1UOa5S64NI15xIjCfzc1BH8092uxXuu0kPq4EBca0SqfHtM-d9RTm4M8xOpkllyX6scOJDDW7EvT0GDXk4G7a08thsik-X7Zc3AsjsL4SA9Vzj0/s640/IMG_4616.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After Dinner we did the traditional Chalking of the Door! Have you done it before? If not, it is a great tradition to start with your family! Here is how you do it:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Write the inscription below on your entrance to your home with blessed chalk. The blessings are listed below as well. I wrote the inscription on the doorway while Little Man and Goalie wrote it all over the sidewalk. </div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">20 + C + M + B + 17</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;">
While you write this above your doorway remember to recite:</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;">
<i>The three Wise Men, Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar followed the star of God’s Son who became human two thousand and fifteen years ago. May Christ bless our home and remain with us throughout the new year. Amen.</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;">
The letters C, M, B have two meanings. They are the initials of the traditional names of the three Magi: Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar. They also abbreviate the Latin words Christus Mansionem Benedicat, “May Christ bless the house.” The “+” signs represent the cross and 17 represents the year. </div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;">
To bless the chalk prior to "Chalking the Door" recite the following prayer and sprinkle holy water on the chalk:</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: start;">Loving God, bless this chalk which you have created, that it may be helpful to your people; and grant that through the invocation of your most Holy Name that we who use it in faith to write upon the door of our home the names of your holy ones Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar, may receive health of body and protection of soul for all who dwell in or visit our home; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; text-align: start;"><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Q0fJnyOpjCMleYXQ8pg4fJRn0q0aYb04fJR6Su4VBgFRxpoejinnrtWjWdZNjB5HMkqk_5xUgyBk4qVv-c-p_YbtwYUZdFY5-Du1JYvYHTLX4s8qsv4YxxGV7Sfs7C68F8ACyF4hcVY/s1600/IMG_4614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Q0fJnyOpjCMleYXQ8pg4fJRn0q0aYb04fJR6Su4VBgFRxpoejinnrtWjWdZNjB5HMkqk_5xUgyBk4qVv-c-p_YbtwYUZdFY5-Du1JYvYHTLX4s8qsv4YxxGV7Sfs7C68F8ACyF4hcVY/s640/IMG_4614.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
If you did a Chalking of the Door please find <a href="https://www.instagram.com/pinotnoirprayers/" target="_blank">me</a> and the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thezeliegrouppics/" target="_blank">Zelie Group</a> on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/pinotnoirprayers/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and share your pictures! It's not to late to do this fun activity with your family... especially if you still have your Christmas decorations still up! Looking for more fun ways to celebrate the Epiphany checkout <a href="https://pinotnoirandprayers.blogspot.com/2017/01/seven-activities-to-celebrate-epiphany.html" target="_blank">Seven Activities to Celebrate the Epiphany</a>.<br />
<br />
During dinner and our Epiphany activities, we listened to our Christmas music one last time. It was a sad moment when I told the boys I would be putting away the Christmas decor, music and movies. They begged for one last movie so we decided to watch <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005BYBZHW?ie=UTF8&tag=pinotnoirandp-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B005BYBZHW" target="_blank">The Little Drummer Boy</a> and snuggled up with some hot chocolate on the couch before we called it a night and headed to bed. How was your Epiphany celebration? Do you take down your decorations? Or do you leave them up until Candlemas? I am sharing this with <a href="http://rosie-ablogformymom.blogspot.com/2017/01/my-sunday-best-vol-36-it-is-so-cold.html" target="_blank">My Sunday Best.</a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">God Bless!</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-59550176429151511932017-01-09T20:17:00.002-07:002017-01-09T20:17:50.709-07:00Menu Plan Monday: January 9- January 15<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxUlqtVrutDo0HW2EtjZi3fn6aYE6Uit5824U5UMZY3bo5tdeTVirF5vCJQ5r0Ya3xej1wdTNo0T7egohEpCasMpBS1pyEIe-pU4tIvGEdIfV9ZAqw5U_YfEAV9lA6GzQZGgBoEIfqYY/s1600/MPM-Winter.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxUlqtVrutDo0HW2EtjZi3fn6aYE6Uit5824U5UMZY3bo5tdeTVirF5vCJQ5r0Ya3xej1wdTNo0T7egohEpCasMpBS1pyEIe-pU4tIvGEdIfV9ZAqw5U_YfEAV9lA6GzQZGgBoEIfqYY/s640/MPM-Winter.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Today was a crazy day. We experienced Hurricane strength winds all day and it is still continuing as we speak. I had some plans to make some delicious Stuffed Shells for the Baptism of the Lord tonight but after my experience getting to and from work and the schools being shut down I believed it was safer to stay home. The boys celebrate their Baptism Anniversary on the 29th so we will just save that dinner for that evening. Please say a prayer to everyone affected by the crazy wind storm that hit us here in Colorado. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On a higher note, we will be attending our first Hockey Game this Saturday! The boys don't even know yet! We have decided to do a family activity, whether it be a game night, watching a movie, going on a hike or something similar to make more family memories together. This is a bigger event than we will get most of the time but I am so excited!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here is our Menu Plan for this <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2017/01/menu-plan-monday-jan-917.html" target="_blank">Menu Plan Monday</a>:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Monday: Baptism of the Lord</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Leftover Epiphany Chicken A La King with Star of Bethlehem Biscuits</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Tuesday:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Wednesday:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Deli Sandwiches and Garden Salad</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Thursday:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Chili</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Friday:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Mexican Baked Spaghetti Squash</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Saturday:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Eat Out as a Family</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Sunday:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Leftover Dinner Buffet</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I can't remember if I have shared my Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe before but it is loaded with fruits and veggies and a great quick and easy family meal that can be prepared in the crockpot!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Hawaiian BBQ Chicken:</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2-3 Large Chicken Breast</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 Can Crushed or Cubed Pineapple.. your texture preference (Drained) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 Large Onion Diced</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2 Cups Shredded Carrots</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 Bottle of Your Favorite BBQ Sauce</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Salt and Pepper to taste</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Place all ingredients into the Crockpot and cook on low 6-8 hours or high 4-6 hours. I like to serve this Chicken recipe on Kings Hawaiian Sweet Bread Rolls and top it with a dollop of coleslaw. </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Enjoy!</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sweet potato fries are an amazing side item to pair it with as well. You can also dump all these ingredients into a Gallon Ziplock bag for an easy Freezer to Crockpot meal. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-31559867328940349972017-01-06T22:06:00.001-07:002017-01-06T22:09:10.085-07:00Quiet Faith: Reconciliation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpijkIMUPyO3DH4jax6FoGllMwqnY-fEAXEJD88k40AViC9QyBKzcG4s3MGDUcJ_O1NRpDCPY-guxrbWNFGsBtngAVpXAPkmPjvcJKjiieoJ5XZphQDDVBDvwNx_Dv1OemZDLUfC1H1LA/s1600/pexels-photo-192575.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpijkIMUPyO3DH4jax6FoGllMwqnY-fEAXEJD88k40AViC9QyBKzcG4s3MGDUcJ_O1NRpDCPY-guxrbWNFGsBtngAVpXAPkmPjvcJKjiieoJ5XZphQDDVBDvwNx_Dv1OemZDLUfC1H1LA/s640/pexels-photo-192575.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's the start of a new year. A new year means all things are new, bright and clean. Reconciliation is like the start of a new year and is an act of quiet faith. To be completely honest, the quiet faith required for Reconciliation is terrifying to me. I am so grateful for this wonderful Sacrament but I am overwhelmed with the immensity of the act of complete forgiveness that leaves your hear and soul quiet so that it is prepared to hear God speak. </div>
<br />
I am a cradle Catholic and when I was growing up we went to Reconciliation very consistently. My father would bring my entire family to our local parish every first Saturday of the month. We would wait in the line outside the confessional and just wait. There was no talking. There was only silence. I remember realizing this quietness at a young age, before I was old enough to participate in the Sacrament, and thinking it was odd. Church was a quiet and reverent place but this silence was different than anything I have ever experienced.<br />
<br />
I would watch people come and go from the Confessional. Some were quick, others took a very long time; Some parishioners left smiling and others left in tears. My mother was one of those who often left in tears. Seeing all these grown people that I admired, loved and looked up to in such an emotional state after leaving the confessional had a huge impact on me. Those were my first memories of Reconciliation. After that, I remember attending my Catechism classes to receive my first Reconciliation and being so terrified of the confessional. I was petrified of admitting all the not so nice things I had done, said and thought throughout my short 7 years of life. I had convinced myself that I must be the most horrible person in the world.<br />
<br />
The day that I received my First Reconciliation was a life changing experience for me. I actually cried while I waited to go into the confessional and when it was my turn all I remember is opening the door and hearing silence. As I entered the confessional, I completed my blessing and even (with a huge burst of courage) decided to sit in front of the priest versus behind the screen. As I began speaking to start my confession, I again started crying. I apologized to the priest expressing that I was so scared that God would hate me for admitting all the sins I had committed, especially the ones I committed on purpose.<br />
<br />
I will never forget the priest, Fr. Grotchen, who took my hand and smiled at me. He explained that the entire purpose of Confession was to reconnect with God. He listened to me pour my little heart out and many many tears. He told me that I should never be afraid to speak to God because God is always longing for me to return to him just like the story of the Prodigal son. He told me that when I did my penance to be calm and quiet and God would wash away all my sadness and restore me to grace. I was shocked when he told em to be "calm and quiet". It has always stuck with me.<br />
<br />
Since my First Reconciliation I have been to MANY confessionals and I have had an abundance of sins to confess but I will always remember that the quiet that I was once so afraid of, is nothing but God's way of connecting to me in my heart and cleansing my soul. You have to embrace the Quiet to feel God speak to you.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAIJt0oZoIl433THNfETOVa-7MDnRc9c67sdzI5I3htFonqKytGuivEeAKCvna-_FTW5k9nFS8fPawDVIdelhsDwp03Yu-pOVSCV527xRADEU5KJgb9C2zCjOytBK7SUVaU7ktrKoXxzg/s1600/IMG_20141206_125709517.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAIJt0oZoIl433THNfETOVa-7MDnRc9c67sdzI5I3htFonqKytGuivEeAKCvna-_FTW5k9nFS8fPawDVIdelhsDwp03Yu-pOVSCV527xRADEU5KJgb9C2zCjOytBK7SUVaU7ktrKoXxzg/s640/IMG_20141206_125709517.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Truth be told, I am still scared of Reconciliation and I have made it one of my resolutions to embrace this Quiet Faith and attend it more often. It is even more important now because my oldest son has received his First Reconciliation and loves it. I don't want him to lose that love for the Sacrament that makes us new again. I am so proud of the gentleman he is growing into and the love he has for his faith.<br />
<br />
Oddly enough, I decided to pick a saint at random to learn about and pray for spiritual guidance throughout this year. I drew the name Saint Jan Sarkander, the martyr of the confessional. I'll share more on this amazing saint later. I know God is asking me to come to him in the Sacrament of Reconciliation and I know that he gave me this saint to help me find him where I am most fearful to go.... into the Quiet, because I feel unworthy. Where do you find the quiet in your faith? Is it a struggle like it is for me?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is my post for The Zelie Group’s new link-up, “Getting To Know Us”. We invite you to write a blog post (or two!) or post on social media about what “Quiet” means to you during the month of January. Link up and use the hashtags #thezeliegroup, #tzg_quiet and #tzg_gettingtoknowus to connect with us. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghteD-yNX0S1hCMb9vfoR8nV9vd8eR5c32IyAPKiGXxpYcV2Zafh5blEpIPyI8rsmnmAVeEqTUEcaLN7NYhEmNDdkW4OmZkwDXTjIORFDesTV19O7acOCBUWi7TDkpizgTgfqEJeWYto4/s1600/thezeliegroup_2016_quiet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="355" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghteD-yNX0S1hCMb9vfoR8nV9vd8eR5c32IyAPKiGXxpYcV2Zafh5blEpIPyI8rsmnmAVeEqTUEcaLN7NYhEmNDdkW4OmZkwDXTjIORFDesTV19O7acOCBUWi7TDkpizgTgfqEJeWYto4/s640/thezeliegroup_2016_quiet.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<!-- start LinkyTools script -->
<script src="https://www.linkytools.com/thumbnail_linky_include.aspx?id=275497" type="text/javascript"></script>
<!-- end LinkyTools script →Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-846373924293371688.post-43108706465329526562017-01-06T19:38:00.000-07:002017-01-06T19:56:10.436-07:00Seven Activities to Celebrate the Epiphany<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ7i9dw11VJEmxOr5_wdtcOUSIwyDWCsapMvyZPCHDxyv_tnmarce2QkP9ciJ0Ved209UuyTvKGQfxgc0QSNsEZjDaxEJZejdR-Mz5xfqhxoQmekVdfU0PC9WDuQDZlrV2VfBrXwZ8XT0/s1600/IMG_4607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ7i9dw11VJEmxOr5_wdtcOUSIwyDWCsapMvyZPCHDxyv_tnmarce2QkP9ciJ0Ved209UuyTvKGQfxgc0QSNsEZjDaxEJZejdR-Mz5xfqhxoQmekVdfU0PC9WDuQDZlrV2VfBrXwZ8XT0/s640/IMG_4607.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Christmas is still not over! Nope! Not yet... Today is the twelfth day of Christmas also known as the Epiphany, Little Christmas or Three Kings Day. The day that commemorates the visit of the Magi to the Christ Child. The traditional date is January 6th but the church will celebrate the Epiphany on the Sunday between January 2th and January 8th. This very special feast has some amazing traditions correlated with it and they certainly can make some lasting memories for your friends and family involved. The Epiphany is celebrated world wide and there are many traditional ways to celebrate and unique ways to celebrate in different countries and cultures. Besides completing your Nativity with the Wise Men, here are seven activities that you can do to celebrate the feast of the Epiphany. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>{ONE}</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Chalking the Door</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Chalking the Door is a great tradition to start with your families! A traditional way of doing this is to use blessed chalk to write above your home’s doorway:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">20 + C + M + B + 17</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
While you write this above your doorway remember to recite:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>The three Wise Men, Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar followed the star of God’s Son who became human two thousand and fifteen years ago. May Christ bless our home and remain with us throughout the new year. Amen.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The letters C, M, B have two meanings. They are the initials of the traditional names of the three Magi: Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar. They also abbreviate the Latin words Christus Mansionem Benedicat, “May Christ bless the house.” The “+” signs represent the cross and 17 represents the year. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
To bless the chalk prior to "Chalking the Door" recite the following prayer and sprinkle holy water on the chalk:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<i>Loving God, bless this chalk which you have created, that it may be helpful to your people; and grant that through the invocation of your most Holy Name that we who use it in faith to write upon the door of our home the names of your holy ones Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar, may receive health of body and protection of soul for all who dwell in or visit our home; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.</i><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>{TWO}</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Sing Epiphany Songs</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Who doesn't love a great karaoke number? There are two songs that are quintessential to celebrate the Epiphany: We Three Kings of Orient Are and the Twelve Days of Christmas. For obvious reasons you can see why these songs are so perfect. It is traditional to sing and celebrate the Epiphany with Christmas music so don't forget to add these songs on your Epiphany play list. Don't know the songs? I have attached the lyrics below so you can sing until your hearts content!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>We Three Kings of Orient Are:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div>
<i>We three kings of Orient are,</i></div>
<div>
<i>bearing gifts we traverse afar,</i></div>
<div>
<i>field and fountain, moor and mountain,</i></div>
<div>
<i>following yonder star.</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>Refrain:</i></div>
<div>
<i>O star of wonder, star of night,</i></div>
<div>
<i>star with royal beauty bright;</i></div>
<div>
<i>westward leading, still proceeding,</i></div>
<div>
<i>guide us to thy perfect light!</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>Born a King on Bethlehem's plain,</i></div>
<div>
<i>gold I bring to crown him again,</i></div>
<div>
<i>King for ever, ceasing never</i></div>
<div>
<i>Over us all to reign. (Refrain)</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>Frankincense to offer have I:</i></div>
<div>
<i>incense owns a Deity nigh;</i></div>
<div>
<i>prayer and praising, gladly raising,</i></div>
<div>
<i>worship him, God Most High. (Refrain)</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>Myrrh is mine; its bitter perfume</i></div>
<div>
<i>Breathes a life of gathering gloom;</i></div>
<div>
<i>sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying,</i></div>
<div>
<i>sealed in the stone-cold tomb. (Refrain)</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>Glorious now behold him arise,</i></div>
<div>
<i>King and God and Sacrifice;</i></div>
<div>
<i>heaven sings, alleluia; </i></div>
<div>
<i>alleluia the earth replies. (Refrain)</i></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>The Twelve Days of Christmas:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div>
<i>On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me a partridge in a pear tree.</i></div>
<div>
<i>On the second day of Christmas my true love gave to me two turtle doves</i></div>
<div>
<i>And a partridge in a pear tree.</i></div>
<div>
<i>On the third day of Christmas my true love gave to me three French hens,</i></div>
<div>
<i>Two turtle doves, and a Partridge in a pear tree.</i></div>
<div>
<i>On the fourth day of Christmas my true love gave to me</i></div>
<div>
<i>Four calling birds, three French hens, two turtle doves and a Partridge in a pear tree.</i></div>
<div>
<i>On the fifth day of Christmas my true love gave to me five golden rings,</i></div>
<div>
<i>Four calling birds, three French hens, two turtle doves and a Partridge in a pear tree.</i></div>
<div>
<i>On the sixth day of Christmas my true love gave to me six geese a laying,</i></div>
<div>
<i>Five golden rings, four calling birds, three French hens, two turtle doves</i></div>
<div>
<i>And a Partridge in a pear tree.</i></div>
<div>
<i>On the seventh day of Christmas my true love gave to me seven swans a swimming,</i></div>
<div>
<i>Six geese a laying, five golden rings, four calling birds, three French hens,</i></div>
<div>
<i>Two turtle doves and a Partridge in a pear tree.</i></div>
<div>
<i>On the eighth day of Christmas my true love gave to me eight maids a milking,</i></div>
<div>
<i>Seven swans a swimming, six geese a laying, five golden rings, four calling birds,</i></div>
<div>
<i>Three French hens, two turtle doves and a Partridge in a pear tree.</i></div>
<div>
<i>On the ninth day of Christmas my true love gave to me nine ladies dancing,</i></div>
<div>
<i>Eight maids a milking, seven swans a swimming, six geese a laying, five golden rings,</i></div>
<div>
<i>Four calling birds, three French hens, two turtle doves and a Partridge in a pear tree.</i></div>
<div>
<i>On the tenth day of Christmas my true love gave to me ten lords a leaping,</i></div>
<div>
<i>Nine ladies dancing, eight maids a milking, seven swans a swimming, six geese a laying,</i></div>
<div>
<i>Five golden rings, four calling birds, three French hens, two turtle doves</i></div>
<div>
<i>And a Partridge in a pear tree.</i></div>
<div>
<i>On the eleventh day of Christmas my true love gave to me eleven pipers piping,</i></div>
<div>
<i>Ten lords a leaping nine ladies dancing, eight maids a milking, seven swans a swimming,</i></div>
<div>
<i>Six geese a laying, five golden rings, four calling birds, three French hens,</i></div>
<div>
<i>Two turtle doves and a Partridge in a pear tree.</i></div>
<div>
<i>On the twelfth day of Christmas my true love gave to me twelve drummers drumming,</i></div>
<div>
<i>Eleven pipers piping, ten lords a leaping nine ladies dancing, eight maids a milking,</i></div>
<div>
<i>Seven swans a swimming, six geese a laying, five golden rings, four calling birds,</i></div>
<div>
<i>Three French hens, two turtle doves and a Partridge in a pear tree.</i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>{THREE}</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>The Three Kings Cake</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The Three King Cake is a very special treat that can not be forgotten on the Epiphany! It is eaten in honor of the three kings, also known as the Magi or Wise Men. A custom that I really enjoy is when one slice of the King Cake is set aside for God. There are so many different variations of this delicious treat but all have something hidden inside ranging from a plastic baby that represents baby Jesus to chocolate coins. The traditional custom states that whoever finds the baby Jesus or Chocolate Coin must host the party on Candlemas, which falls on February 2nd. I am doing a similar version of this but with cupcakes placed in a circle and a crown as the centerpiece of the presentation. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I think it would be completely appropriate for you to allow your children to craft some Crowns to wear during the festivities as well.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>{FOUR}</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Giving Gifts</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
In several cultures this night is the evening when they receive gifts! In the Spanish culture, children go to bed waiting with anticipation for a visit from the Three Kings. They place snacks for the Kings' camels under their beds or in their shoes near the fireplace on the night of the Epiphany. The next morning, the children awaken to find that the camel snacks are gone and presents are left for them. Sometimes the camels will leave a trail of the hay to lead the children to where their gifts have been placed.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Have you ever heard of Belfana? I think this custom is so amazing because they leave out wine and an orange for Belfana in hope that she will reward them with gifts for good behavior. She is also known to leave coal for the naughty children. The legend states that the Magi invited Belfana to accompany them to visit the Christ Child but she was too busy sweeping her house at the time. She quickly regretted her decision and went out after the Magi, who were all ready far, far ahead of her. She continues her search to this day, riding her broomstick all over the world in search of Jesus. Want to learn more about this legend? Checkout <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0152438173?ie=UTF8&tag=pinotnoirandp-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=0152438173" target="_blank">Old Belfana</a>. There is also a song that accompanies Belfana's legend:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">La Befana comes at night</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">In tattered shoes</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Dressed in the Roman style</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Long live la Befana!</span></i></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>{FIVE}</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Decorate With Flowers</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
Decorating for events is a great way to set the mood of an event. If you are hosting a Twelfth Night Party or a special Epiphany dinner try including an assortment of "Star of Bethlehem" flowers and/or "Mary's Star" flowers. Both are brilliant white flowers that look similar to a star. They would certainly be a great conversational piece for your friends and family. A little less known fact is that there is a legend involving the Magi and a Mary's Star also known as the Ox-Eye Daisy. Legend says that after the Magi followed the Star of Bethlehem into Bethlehem, they stopped because they didn't know where to go. Saint Melchior looked down and saw an Ox-Eye Daisy blooming. He noticed its resemblance to the Star they had followed to Bethlehem and decided to pluck it from the ground. As he did this, the door to the stable where the Holy Family was staying opened, showing the Magi where the Christ Child lay.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>{SIX}</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Cheers to the Epiphany</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
What kind of celebration could you enjoy without a special beverage? There are several drinks that I have come across that are encouraged to share on this night. Hot chocolate variations and Cider drinks are all very popular during the feast day, especially since it is Winter and the air has a bite to it most days. A recipe for a drink called Lamb's Wool is a traditional Epiphany drink. I have shared a recipe below:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div>
<i>6 baking apples, cored</i></div>
<div>
<i>2 tablespoons to 1/2 cup brown sugar, depending on sweetness of cider/ale</i></div>
<div>
<i>2 quarts cider, hard cider, ale, or a mixture of cider and ale</i></div>
<div>
<i>1/8 teaspoon nutmeg</i></div>
<div>
<i>1/4 teaspoon cinnamon</i></div>
<div>
<i>1/4 teaspoon ground ginger</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>Roast the apples in a baking pan at 450 degrees for around an hour, until they are very soft and bursting open. In a large saucepan, dissolve the sugar a few tablespoons at a time in the liquid of choice, tasting for sweetness. Add the spices. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Squeeze all of the pulp from the apples and discard the skins then fluff the puree with a fork and add to the liquid. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and serve immediately. </i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
I am sure you could make this for children if you simply substitute the hard cider with a sparkling non alcoholic apple cider served in a mug.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>{SEVEN}</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Woman's Christmas</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So although I am in love with all the previous mentioned activities, the next one is definitely my favorite! The Epiphany also known as 'Nollaig na mBean' or Women's Christmas in Ireland is becoming very popular. On the Epiphany the women get the day off and the men do the cooking and the cleaning! Women gather together to meet up to enjoy tea and cakes while their husbands prepare their homes for the Epiphany. I don't know about you, but I don't think my husband would have the time to pull together a Twelfth Night Party with his crazy schedule but I do think it would be a great new tradition to setup a special time around breakfast or lunch to get together with your close women friends and family for some light refreshments. What do you think? Anyone want to come over for some tea and cakes this Sunday? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Whether you decide to celebrate the Epiphany tonight, this upcoming Sunday or maybe even both nights, remember to create some family memories and traditions! I would love to hear all about your Epiphany celebrations so please tag me in your <a href="https://www.instagram.com/pinotnoirprayers/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pinotnoirandprayers/" target="_blank">Facebook</a> pictures or comment below with your activities! I will be sharing details about our Epiphany party this Sunday! Now I have a big question for you:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Do you take down your Christmas decorations after the Epiphany or do you leave them up until Candlemas? </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I am going to start a poll on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pinotnoirandprayers/" target="_blank">Facebook</a> so please stop by and give me your vote. I am sharing this with <a href="http://thisaintthelyceum.org/sqtthe-house-is-alive-with/" target="_blank">This Ain't the Lyceum</a> for <a href="http://thisaintthelyceum.org/sqtthe-house-is-alive-with/" target="_blank">Seven Quick Takes</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Have a Blessed Epiphany and God Bless!</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238190821703924253noreply@blogger.com4