7 Quick Takes Friday (Vol. 78)

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Wynken, Blynken, & Nod I must say that I often don’t show a lot of surprise when parents tell me about a compliment their pediatrician, a relative, a friend, or a complete stranger have given about their children.  I already know that the precious little ones in my care for several hours a day are absolutely adorable, very clever, super intelligent, and more amazing than I can ever put into words.  If I smile and nod when you share a compliment you received about your kids, it’s most likely because I have seen, heard, and experienced the truth in it, and I’m glad others have picked up on it as well.    

     

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“I think I can, I think I can…” This week I introduced Vivi to another one of my favorite classics from childhood, The Little Engine That Could.  Throughout the day, she’ll mention hearing the train whistle, so I figured she’d be interested in reading a book about trains.  I was right.  She loved it, and it’s already made an impression.  A few times today when she was trying to do something, I heard her softly saying to herself “I think I can. I think I can. I think I can.” 

           

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Goodnight Room!  Vivi got me good on Tuesday! The little skunk removed the pillows, blankets, her stuffed animals...from her bed, grabbed her nightlight and put everything in the closet then fell asleep in there with the door closed.  I walked in the room and had that split-second where the heck is she moment, before I remembered she has a closet and a fondness for little spaces with pillows and blankets to curl up in.  Too funny and very cute:)

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America Finally Winning the War on Babies is a thought-provoking article everyone ought to read right before you call your mama and thank her for choosing life!

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Top Shelf Books Hearing Vivi, I just had to leave my copy of The Little Engine That Could book at her house, so it is within her parents’ reach (and mine) whenever she wants to hear it.  As with the copy of Wynken, Blynken, and Nod, I received from my grandma when I was four, The Little Engine That Could was another childhood favorite I received from my Godmother many moons ago, so it’s there to be read only under adult supervision.  Judging by the wear and tear on both books, they were dearly loved and within reach when I was little.  I don’t have all that much left from my childhood (in terms of things), especially now that my mom’s house was cleared out and sold last month, but certain books do bring back good memories.

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My Book Obsession I absolutely love, love, love to read!  It’s one of my favorite activities now and has been ever since I was little and my parents would read to me.  I can still remember how worked up my sister and I would get when we were little and my dad would be reading a book we’d heard a million times and knew by heart, and he’d throw in something that isn’t in there: such as Little Red Riding Hood going to Burger King or something along those lines.  Kids are listening and know the stories, so if you add stuff, they/we will correct you. 
     Though I still have a passion/obsession for books of many kinds, I don’t hold onto many of them or reread ones (other than children’s picture books).  Most of them I give to family or friends who I think would like a particular book I’ve read and reviewed.  I usually bring a box of books with me when I meet with my Christ Renews His Parish (CRHP) sisters and they take whatever they want.  
     I figure it’s best to spread good books around.. Though I read lots and review tons of books, there aren’t very many on our shelves.  I pass most of them along to others, because that’s what we learned to do with good books from my mom and Grandma.  If you read my review of a book that interests you, let me know, and if I haven't already passed it along, you're welcome to it.

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Unstoppable I was fully expecting to like this book since Nick Vujicic’s first book Life Without Limits is so inspiring and his videos on Youtube are quite moving.  In some ways, Unstoppable threw me for a loop, brought painful subjects to the surface, and underlined the necessity of focusing on God above all-else.  Nick keeps it real, and that’s what I admire most about who he is and what he has to say. 

     Some authors, preachers, motivational speakers, and Christians strike me as being rather fake.  I’m always suspect of people who project an image that says they’re above suffering, hardship, or pain in life.  I don’t buy the life is perfect, always happy, filled with wealth, health, and kindness for those who love God and spread the Gospel.  I appreciate and can identify much better with people who know they aren’t perfect now—nor have they ever been—than I can those individuals who claim to have unwavering faith and a life without strife…To read full review, click here.  

Head over to Conversion Diary, to read Jen Fulwiler's wonderful tradition of 7 Quick Takes Friday.

Catholic, Reluctantly: John Paul 2 High Book 1

I enjoyed this Young Adult (YA) novel for a number of reasons, not the least of which it inspires me with excellent examples and encouragement to continue working on my own manuscript of one.  The characters in Catholic, Reluctantly: John Paul 2 High Book 1 are interesting and complex.  The high school drama, personality clashes, conflicts, cruelty, and questions are appropriate for the age/grade levels discussed, the circumstances described, and what’s at stake.   There’s a sufficient amount of suspense and surprise to keep the reader intrigued throughout. 

   
Of the John Paul 2 High characters, some actually try to live out their Catholic faith while others are Catholic in name only.  The different personalities and varying levels of understanding the Catholic faith intellectually and spiritually create a considerable amount of tension and challenge those involved to figure out where they stand and why.  The highly controversial struggle over whether it’s most important to keep the letter of the law and/or to live by the spirit of the law comes out in a slew of tricky circumstances.         

   
Many of the facts and stereotypes about the Catholic faith, its followers, Catholic schools and other institutions, traditional practices, and prayers are covered in thought-provoking ways.  The subject of seeking Truth in all circumstances and letting it be the guide is one that’s explored in-depth. 

    
Some of the situations are quite hilarious and others very ominous and foreboding, giving the novel a good blend of the humorous and harrowing.  There are many big questions left unanswered by the end of the first book, definitely leaving room for more to come.  I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series.  For more information on the author and other books in the series and other interesting extras, check out this website for the John Paul 2 High series.

     
This review was written as part of the Catholic book reviewer program from The Catholic Company. Visit The Catholic Company to find more information on Catholic,Reluctantly: John Paul 2 High Book 1. The Catholic Company is the best resource for all your family Advent activities and supplies this year, such as Advent wreaths and calendars for kids, as well as Christmas decorations such as nativity scene sets and religious Christmas gifts for the whole family.
   
This post is linked to the Catholic Bloggers Monthly Round-up.

Unstoppable: The Incredible Power of Faith in Action

I was fully expecting to like this book since Nick Vujicic’s first book Life Without Limits is so inspiring and his videos on Youtube are quite moving.  In some ways, Unstoppable threw me for a loop, brought painful subjects to the surface, and underlined the necessity of focusing on God above all-else.  Nick keeps it real, and that’s what I admire most about who he is and what he has to say. 

     
Some authors, preachers, motivational speakers, and Christians strike me as being rather fake.  I’m always suspect of people who project an image that says they’re above suffering, hardship, or pain in life.  I don’t buy the life is perfect, always happy, filled with wealth, health, and kindness for those who love God and spread the Gospel.  I appreciate and can identify much better with people who know they aren’t perfect now—nor have they ever been—than I can those individuals who claim to have unwavering faith and a life without strife. 

     
Nick Vujicic is most inspiring to me because he’s honest that he still has doubts and fears, periods when he’s unsure of himself and not as confident in God’s plan for him as he wants to be and has been at other times.  In Unstoppable, Nick talks about a difficult bout of depression he struggled with recently and how God brought him through it. 

     
This international best-selling author has hit another homerun with his second book (and that’s pretty impressive for a man born without arms or legs).  Unstoppable includes a number of true stories about ordinary people who put their lives in God’s hands and are thereby led to do extraordinary things which glorify Him.  All have faced tremendous challenges in mind, body, and/or spirit, but in each case the Lord’s love shines through. 

     
How can someone born without arms and legs who has experienced bullying, spoken with families whose child has committed suicide, visited the poorest slums in the world, shared his story with victims of the sex trade, and spent time among orphans living in some of the most horrible conditions possibly be a source of hope for others?  Only by centering on Jesus Christ.  Focusing on anyone or anything other than God Himself leads to despair, disillusionment, and deception. 

     
If we rely on ourselves, sooner or later, we’re going to fall flat on our faces whether we have arms and legs to help us get back up or not.  If we rely mostly on others, we will be disappointed and discouraged when they fall short of our expectations.

     
When we put our trust and hope in the Lord as Nick does, we will ultimately triumph over every adversity we face.  As Nick reiterates again and again, when we’re united with God, nothing is impossible.  No matter how far we’ve strayed or how broken we’ve become, Christ is waiting with open arms to welcome us back into the comfort of His love.
     
I received Unstoppable for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.  To purchase your own copy of Unstoppable, click here.  To learn about how you can receive free books from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group, check out their Blogging for Books program here.

The Need for Ongoing Conversion & Sanctification

Sanctification by Association

     I’ve known for a while now that I need to be better about designating time for personal prayer.  I mentioned to John that we miss having him living nearby, because his prayer practices so often inspire Kevin and me to go to daily Mass more frequently and have a more Christ-centered focus in general.  We’ve been to Mass with him three out of the four days he’s been home from seminary for Thanksgiving.

Nanny Nudges

     Another very powerful nudge has come from being Godparents and nanny to the girls.  The other day, I came down from putting one of the twins to bed, and saw Vivi crossing herself and finishing up with “and the Holy Spirit” before continuing to eat her fruit snacks.  That warmed me, made me smile, and reminded me that children are such sponges.  On a yet another day when things were so hectic at lunchtime with three small children that I didn't remember to say grace with them, Vivi stopped mid-afternoon snack to bless herself without being prompted.  That afternoon when all three of them were napping, I prayed the Chaplet of Divine Mercy, inspired to be a person lifted up in love and grounded in prayer, especially when responsible for nurturing little bodies, minds, and souls. 

Inspiration & Accountability

     I know I can’t and shouldn’t rely on others to inspire or motivate me to maintain a solid prayer life.  I can be open to having spiritual mentors and friends help keep me on track if I am willing to open myself up to their suggestions and correction.  It does help immensely to have loved ones who genuinely want God to be first in their lives, because that desire and approach to life does where off and affect others.  Ultimately, if I look to someone other than Christ, then I will not always be fed, nor will I be filled with the gifts of the Holy Spirit so that I can serve others with love and compassion.

Taking It to the Top

     When I ask and am open to the answers, the Lord can be pretty specific with me about what I need to do.  I must admit that I wish I considered this more of a blessing and a lifeline than a scary reality check.  Sometimes the message is short and insistent: TRUST. Other times it’s a list of different aspects of my life that I need to put in God’s hands and leave them there (all of them), then a reminder to check back in regularly to listen for further instructions.     

Making Prayer a Priority

     It was sometime between 3^rd and 5^th grades that I began praying an Our Father, a Hail Mary, and a Glory Be every night before falling asleep.  I would get up early, usually before my mom and sisters woke up, to pray in high school.  I would often pray the Rosary to reflect on the highlights of Christ’s life.  I also read some spiritual books and found some other prayers that really spoke to me at that time in my life.  I would pray quite a bit throughout the day as I walked from one class to another.  I had lots going on in my family at that time, so it was usually pretty heavy on my heart to pray and ask for God’s help and strength.

Prayerful Vocation Discernment

     I struggled and prayed quite a bit about what God intended for my relationship with Kevin long-term as our big age difference, my family’s concerns, and a myriad of other issues kept me clinging to the Lord as I discerned whether marriage or the consecrated religious life would be my main vocation.   When I was dating Kevin and praying, pleading, begging for his conversion or rather reversion to the Catholic faith in which he was raised, I prayed frequently and fervently.  I knew that was the best way to be open to how God might work in and through me to show Kevin His love. 

Suffering Leads to Seeking God’s Will

     Watching those I love suffering brings me to my knees.  When I see others in pain—be it physically, emotionally, or spiritually—I’m much more willing to let God use me however He wants to alleviate their heavy burden.  I no longer place limits on what I will do or go through so that the person I love will be comforted, receive healing, and be drawn closer to the Lord.  Though I often do it with fear and trepidation, I rededicate my life: mind, body, and spirit to the Lord.  I ask Him to “plant His will in my heart and make it my deepest desire and most fervent longing” something the Holy Spirit inspired me to write in one of my prayer journals years ago. 

Here are some other posts, articles, and resources you might find helpful for ongoing conversion and sanctification:

True Conversion One Heart at a Time

Cardinal Dolan’s November 2012 address to the USCCB general assembly

The Evangelization Equation

Holiness is for Everyone

On Prayer

The Wonderful Wizard of Ha's

     Somewhere over the rainbow, there’s a group of Christians having a whole lot of fun creating hilarious programs that will have you and your whole family laughing out loud.  My husband and I have never heard or seen a Veggie Tales song or DVD we didn’t like.  Of course, some are fresher in our minds than others, while certain silly songs and clever twists on Bible stories are forever ingrained in our minds and likely to creep into our conversations. 

     Whenever we hear Bible readings at Mass that remind us of stories covered by this ace team of very inspired personnel, we look at each other and smile.  On occasion we’ve been known to whisper to each other and laugh.     
     The Wonderful Wizard of Ha’s is another hit DVD from the Veggie Tales gang.  After a long, rather exhausting week, I knew Kevin and I would need something to make us laugh, so I asked to borrow this DVD we hadn’t yet seen from the family for whom I nanny.  Make no mistake; though Kevin and I don’t have children of our own, we still have a small collection of Veggie Tales DVDs and CDs at home.  We just don’t have this one nor had we seen it before. 
     This parody of The Wizard of Oz written to tell children the story of the prodigal son cracked us up.  Two of our favorites plays on the original work had to be “Follow Old Yellow McToad” and “Ohioans and fifers and mares, Oh My!”  Trust the creative geniuses behind Veggie Tales to come up with a memorable, kid-friendly version of the parable of a wayward son. 
     For more information about Veggie Tales, check out their online store here.  For specifics about The Wonderful Wizard of Ha’s DVD, click here. 
     Here are my reviews of a few other of our Veggie Tales faves:

King George and the Ducky

Dave and the Giant Pickle

Rack, Shack, and Benny    

7 Quick Takes Friday (Vol. 77)

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My Nanny Diary Here I am with three of the best reasons on the planet to be a nanny.  

My mom came over at lunchtime, and though I’d missed her text and therefore didn’t know she was coming, as soon as she knocked on the door, Vivi said, “It’s Miss Ann!”  She was right.  My mom enjoys being the “grandnanny” of such adorable children.  Who wouldn't?!    

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Singing at Church On Sundays, Kevin and I usually get to Mass a little early and save a whole row so we have enough room for Carl, Jess, Vivi, Livia, and Sophia (and their gear).  Vivi usually ends up wanting me to hold her at some point, and she’ll snuggle up in my arms.  As if that weren’t enough to make my heart melt, I hear her singing some of the words to the hymns with us, particularly the ones we sing at each Mass.  Kevin’s been telling me all week that I need to tell John, Vivi's Godfather, about this.  We shared the update with him yesterday in person.      

                    

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Smells like…One day this week Vivi brought me a group of dead leaves still on the stems and said they were flowers and to smell them, so I did. They smelled like love and the joy of a child.

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What if Aristotle’s kid had an iPod?  Chances are his father would have severely limited him using it and any similar electronic devises in favor of fostering human interaction, real life experiences, and face-to-face conversations. What Conor Gallagher in his modern-day application of Aristotle’s concepts claims (in a nutshell) is that parents and children need to spend more time together unplugged.  I wholeheartedly agree for a myriad of reasons… 

To read a full review of If Aristotle’s Kid Had an iPod: Ancient Wisdom for Modern, click here.

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Going to the outback! My mom's very excited about her trip to Australia.  Please pray that she has a safe, peaceful, blessed vacation.  We'd also appreciate prayers that my grandmother won't worry too much when my mom's gone.  Her memory's just about shot and she's sometimes feared she'd never see my mom again when she's gone on a trip because she's so used to having her visit every day.  Gram's happy to see me, but she always asks where Mom is and when she'll be back.   

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Books to Devour Monday I went to the library after work to pick up the last two books of The Hunger Games trilogy (which I finished reading on Thanksgiving, irony intended). I came home to two new books delivered to my door (which I didn't have to pay for because I'm reviewing them). Then two other free books for me to review arrived a day later.  It's a good week to be a voracious reader like me!

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Thanksgiving We had a very blessed Thanksgiving! Thursday morning we went to Mass to celebrate the heavenly feast of the Eucharist. In the afternoon, we joined the Baab clan for their family meal. Yesterday  evening we went over to Mary and Jordan's for our second turkey dinner with all of our traditional family faves (and some new ones), then we got to sit out by their fire pit and visit for a while. Lord, thank You for the many blessings You have given to Kevin and me, especially for Your Son and our many loved ones!    

Head over to Conversion Diary, to read Jen Fulwiler's wonderful tradition of 7 Quick Takes Friday.

Thanksgiving Traditions, Memories, & Amusement

     We have so much to thank God for, and this beautiful song by The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir describes perfectly some of the most precious blessings the Lord has given us.

 

     Kevin and I hope you and your loved ones have a wonderful day filled with abundant blessings and a myriad of reminders that God is loving, compassionate, and provides for His children.  We’re bringing the green bean casserole to the two Thanksgiving feasts we’re going to today. 

     To read up on some of the Thanksgiving traditions, memories, and amusement we’ve experienced in the past, click here. 

     Lord, thank you for your many blessings.  Please open our hearts and minds so that we become increasing aware of the many ways You love in and through people bring us closer to You.  Amen. 

If Aristotle's Kid Had an iPod: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Parents

What if Aristotle’s kid had an iPod?  Chances are his father would have severely limited him using it and any similar electronic devices in favor of fostering human interaction, real life experiences, and face-to-face conversations. Don’t let the title fool you.  If Aristotle’s Kid Had an iPod: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Parents is a very catchy title and cover photo, but it seems to contradict the actual knowledge conveyed in the book.  What Conor Gallagher in his modern-day application of Aristotle’s concepts claims (in a nutshell) is that parents and children need to spend more time together unplugged.  I wholeheartedly agree for a myriad of reasons.  

     
Most of us have been out for a meal and have seen a parent talking, texting, surfing the net on their phone while their young child stares at them likely wondering what they’d have to do to get some quality time and attention.  What I like best about this book is the emphasis and importance placed on close relationships and the suggestions of how we can do a better job of creating deeper bonds with our family members and friends that will lead us to true happiness and guide our children to value people and morality.

     

Have you forgotten what it’s like to unplug and spend quality time with the people in your life?  Would you be willing to turn off the TV, cell phone, iPod, computer, game system…in order to reconnect with your loved ones?  How would it affect your marriage, your relationship with your kids, your friendships if you made unplugging a regular thing in order to deepen the bonds among you? 

     

I know I’ve definitely fallen into ruts when I am plugged in more often than not, and I can see how it adversely affects my closest relationships as well as my sense of peace and wellbeing.  I’m someone who is really bothered by having the TV on all of the time because I have a hard time concentrating completely on what else is going on.  I make it very clear that I cannot and will not attempt to have a serious, in-depth conversation while the TV is on or while someone has headphones on, or is using the computer.  I realize part of this hang-up came from learning that we better not disturb Dad when he was watching sports on TV.  We might as well not exist while there was a game on that he was interested in. 

     

Gallagher who is married and has eight children doesn’t suggest you give away or destroy all of your electronics, nor does he condemn all forms of entertainment and interaction available through them.  He simply gives a wake-up call that these are not what will make your children (or you) truly happy or satisfied in life.  In fact, many of the examples he uses are based on Aristotle’s theories and recent scientific research that support the philosopher’s fundamental claims. 

     

My hands-down favorite passages of the book are those with clear messages that Aristotle would have unplugged his kid.  Gallagher provides parents with what he calls: “Aristotle’s Challenge” to help you and your children see how deeply entrenched many of us have become in the world of electronic gizmos and gadgets to the detriment of real life and real time interactions.

    

Usually, I’m not much one for underlining or highlighting books that I’m reading, but there’s one paragraph that grabbed me and won’t let me go, so I had to mark it.  Here’s an excerpt from it: “…With the onslaught of TV and game systems Androids and iPods and iPads and e-mail, we’ve begun to ignore our own family members.  There’s too much interruption and too much noise.  It’s very hard to turn off all the devices and simply talk.  Chances are good you’ve forgotten how…” (pg. 96)

     

Aristotle was right about many things, including what brings true fulfillment in life: the pursuit of virtue and the strengthening of relationships.  I’ve been aware for quite some time that being plugged in all or most of the time harms relationships, but If Aristotle’s Kid Had an iPod reminded me of the bigger reasons why we need to make a shift as much for our own lives as for kids and others closest to us. 

     

For more information about If Aristotle’s Kid Had an iPod: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Parents or to order your own copy of the book, click here.  I received a free copy of this book from Saint Benedict Press in order for writing an honest review of it.

7 Quick Takes Friday (Vol. 76)

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What’s a Woman Worth? It depends on whom you ask, when, where, and how what answer you will get to that question.  There are so many people and things vying for women’s attention, evaluating their worth, and holding up what society says should be their ideal, it’s easy to get lost, hurt, and confused.  What’s difficult is seeking God’s view of who you are, actually accepting it, and then putting that above anyone else’s, including your own, your family members, your friends…  At least that’s what I’ve found to be among the greatest challenges of being a real W-O-M-A-N of faith.  
     Wrapped Up: God’s Ten Gifts for Women describes the blessings that women are and possess because we are created in the image and likeness of God; we’re daughters of the King.  Two faith-filled women approach this topic to unwrap the innate beauty and uniqueness of feminine genius as it’s revealed to us through Scripture and most often profaned by the mainstream media…For more info and to read full book review, click here.

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Dr. Seuss Rocks Our Socks So I must say it is quite adorable to hear Vivi "reading" some of our favorite Dr. Seuss books aloud. The two she's focused on during our days together this week are two classics: "Green Eggs and Ham" and "One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish" which she refers to as 'Blue Fish, Blue Fish.' Close enough and super cute!               

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Cause That’s the Way We Like It! One of the things that I really enjoy about nannying is that the kids know that they’re welcome to have some of whatever I bring to drink or eat (provided it’s not soda.)  Vivi is totally comfortable coming up to me while I’m eating and grabbing something from my plate since she knows I’m more than happy to share.  I’ve gotten her to start asking just so she knows that “what’s mine is yours” policy doesn’t always work with everybody all of the time.

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Taking Time for Prayer "A Christian is only productive when united with Christ." -Kay Mundy I took extra time for personal prayer Wednesday.  Kevin and I went to Mass which, as usual, made me that much more aware of how desperately I need God and have to do better about putting Him first if I'm going to be a more useful vessel for Him to work in and through.

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Night-Night, Sleep tight! Kevin and I finally got a new mattress to replace our 20+ year old one.  We also got a mattress topper that fits our queen-sized bed.  We’ve been too tired to take the plastic off of everything and cover it twice, then remake the bed, but hopefully this weekend, we’ll have both the time and energy to put our new sleep system into place.  If you try calling and neither of us answer, we might be passed out on our new bed.   

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High Marks for Hospitality Kevin and I had a really nice dinner over at Mary and Jordan's last Saturday night. Mom, her younger brother Rob, and his wife Dianne all gathered around the new fire pit in their backyard for an evening of delicious food and conversation. Jordan even brought his guitar out and played for us. I hope, one day, Kevin and I will be in a position where our place and lives allow us to have people over more often, make them feel comfortable and loved by sharing a meal and some quality time.  At present, we generally have one person over at a time for dinner and hanging out.  My mom, Holly, Michele, and John have all said they enjoyed coming over (one at a time).  Perhaps we’ll be a little closer to having people over when at least half of our dining room table is cleared off instead of looking like this (as it did until earlier this week).

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YA Fiction for Fun This past week I’ve read four YA novels to spark my creative writing ideas as I’m revisiting the YA novel I’ve been working on over the past eight or so years.  (It’s also nice to read some books I don’t have to write reviews of unless I feel inclined to do so.) I feel another wave of seriously concentrating on the YA manuscript coming over me.  Perhaps this time the end result will be a manuscript fit to submit with a book proposal to the proper publisher.  God only knows.  Your prayers are always appreciated!    

Head over to Conversion Diary, to read Jen Fulwiler's wonderful tradition of 7 Quick Takes Friday.

Wrapped Up: God's Ten Gifts for Women

What is a woman worth?  It depends on whom you ask, when, where, and how what answer you will get to that question.  There are so many people and things vying for women’s attention, evaluating their worth, and holding up what society says should be their ideal, it’s easy to get lost, hurt, and confused.  What’s difficult is seeking God’s view of who you are, actually accepting it, and then putting that above anyone else’s, including your own, your family members, your friends…  At least that’s what I’ve found to be among the greatest challenges of being a real W-O-M-A-N of faith.  

     
Wrapped Up: God’s Ten Gifts for Women describes the blessings that women are and possess because we are created in the image and likeness of God; we’re daughters of the King.  Two faith-filled women approach this topic to unwrap the innate beauty and uniqueness of feminine genius as it’s revealed to us through Scripture and most often profaned by the mainstream media. 

     
Media expert Teresa Tomeo examines her time in the spotlight versus her new life in the light of Christ.  She illustrates how fame and fortune made her what this world considers successful but left her with a sense of spiritual desolation.  How can we pick out the truth from the lies?  First, we need to be mindful of what and to whom we’re listening.  “Giving serious thought to the messages that bombard us is essential if we are going to really see ourselves as unique gifts to the world created by God” (pg. 121).  With thirty years of broadcasting under her belt, some hard knocks, and quick breaks, Teresa uses her experience to take a closer look at the most prominent lies we’re fed by modern culture.   

     
Co-author Cheryl Dickow supplies Scriptural support and reflections that underline the value of women in the Old and New Testaments as well as in the present day.  Cheryl’s discussion of women in the Bible who were open to God working in and through them and fascinating insights into Jewish traditions and practices that are key to understanding the deeper meaning and significance of these stories give this true view of women the solid faith foundation it needs.     

     
These fundamental virtues of women through God’s eyes are combined with some of Teresa’s and Cheryl’s own personal experiences to bridge the gap between Bible Truths and their modern-day implications.    

     
“Women, with our unique role as nurturers, have something the world needs desperately: motherhood.  Some of us are spiritual moms.  Some of us have been blessed with the gift of physical motherhood.  Some of us are both spiritual and physical moms.” (pg. ix of Introduction) Teresa Tomeo

     
This book provides an in-depth look at the sanctity of women and how that holiness leads to a responsibility to share our God-given abilities, talents, and wisdom with others. 

     
“I knew that being wrapped up in God’s love happens in many ways, one of which is through words and love and prayers that have been part of this book—written just for you. (pg. ix of Introduction)” Cheryl Dickow

     
Check out this video interview with the authors. 

     
This review was written as part of the Catholic book reviewer program from The Catholic Company. Visit The Catholic Company to find more information on Wrapped Up - God's Ten Giftsfor Women. The Catholic Company is a great resource for tools to help you participate in the Year of Faith, including Year of Faith bible studies and exclusive Year of Faith personalized gifts. The Catholic Company also has all your Advent needs in stock, such as Advent calendars and Advent wreaths.



Two Veterans Riveting True Stories

Kevin and I both have a number of family members and friends who have served in the armed forces over the years. We would like to thank all of them for their dedication to serving and protecting our country.

FEARLESS

This past summer I read a very powerful book I believe all military personnel and their families and friends will want to put towards the top of their readings lists.  Fearless is a full-throttle, no holding back, breakneck-paced true story of Navy SEAL Adam Brown. Ever since his childhood, Adam Brown was a risk taker who loved pushing the limits. This engaging account of his life is nothing short of breathtaking, earth-changing, and absolutely miraculous.

     
Eric Blehm, New York Times Best-selling Author of The Only Thing Worth Dying For, has masterfully illustrated and expressed the fascinating trials, triumphs, tribulations, and turmoil that defined a man hardwired with a mission to give everything he had and was in mind, body, and spirit in service to his country, his family, and his comrades.  To read my full book review, click here.

    
To listen to the song Fearless by Mark Dowdy, click here.   

The Shadow of His Wings

     
I read The Shadow of His Wings after hearing a friend sing its praises time and again. Though I’m not one to read many tomes that are predominantly about war, I took exception to this story and am grateful I did. Never before have I read about such profound faith being lived out in such unbelievable ways in the midst of a soldier in the midst of battle…

     
There were times when reading that I laughed aloud at the complete and utter audacity of this priest/soldier/nurse. Though steadfast in faith, boldly outspoken, and extremely courageous, even this man was amazed by how prayer and intercession made the impossible possible when it came to a number of circumstances. His journey to priesthood is not by any stretch of the imagination normal, nor are the ways he lives out his call to be a man of the cloth once he does finally get ordained.
     
Among my favorite examples of his unorthodox approach has to be when he held a bishop at gunpoint who failed to believe he was a priest and honestly wanted to be let into the church to obtain Communion, so he could bring it to his comrades on the battlefield. The minute the bishop concedes, the first thing Fr. Gereon Goldmann wants to do is have the bishop hear his Confession.    
     
Not only did this man dodge bullets to save soldiers physically and/or spiritually, but he also reserved using his weapon in order to gain access to the sacraments. He is a remarkable role model of faith fine-tuned in some of the most horrible circumstances. His missionary work after the war proves God had miracles upon miracles to bring about through this man dedicated to doing God’s will at all costs. I hope Fr. Gereon Goldmann’s life and service to God will be studied and that he will be considered for sainthood.

On Our Minds, In Our Prayers

     
The following is an excerpt from a letter I wrote to a dear family friend before he left for Afghanistan:  “Many times it is much easier for me to see Christ in others than it is to see and accept that He dwells within me, too.  There is a quote by Henri Nouwen that perfectly sums this up: “You are here for just a short time...to discover and believe that you are a beloved child of God."

As I’ve been praying for you this week, it’s come to me to remind you that first and foremost you are a beloved son of God.  Your service and submission to the Lord will always be most important in life wherever you are and whatever you’re doing.  God the Father, the Blessed Mother, and Jesus Christ are the only ones who will be with you wherever you go, who will never leave you, never give up on you, and never stop loving you. 

     
My guess is that some of the hardest battles you’ve fought and things you’ve been through have come from your own thoughts and feelings, most often, the lies you’ve believed about God, yourself, and others.  I know I’ve often been my own worst enemy.  Stay close to the Lord.  He will guide you even in what seems to be your darkest hour.  Don’t forget that even more important than your fidelity and service to the US Military is your role as a child of God put on this Earth to be and do things no one else can. 
     
God can take any situation, any place, any group of people, and any circumstances and use them to help you become the best version of yourself.  You never have been and never will be the “property” of the US government.  They have you on loan from the Lord.  Keep God at the center, and everything will come together.  That’s not to say there won’t be suffering, pain, and struggles, but it is to say that God’s Love, mercy, forgiveness, Truth, and peace will prevail.”

Follow-up note: We are very grateful that this friend has since returned safe and sound to the United States from his deployment.   

My Prayer for Veterans and Their Families: May God bless all those who are mourning the loss of loved ones and may He protect all of those who are in harm's way, and give their families courage to continue on.
     
Lord, guide us closer to You in all areas of our lives. Help us not lose hope no matter what situation we find ourselves in or how severely we are tested in mind, body, and/or spirit. Jesus, we trust in You. Amen. 

7 Quick Takes Friday (Vol. 75)

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It’s Not Over: Keep Praying! So after a very heated race and a slew of really annoying robo-calling campaigns, the elections are over.  Now more than ever, we need to be grounded in prayer, lifted up in love, led by the Truth, and infused by the Holy Spirit.  The fight isn’t over; it’s now been rekindled.  Hold on to Hope: God’s still the one in charge, and He’s always on the side of love and life.  Not some of the time, but all of the time.

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Still Singin’ in the Rain The best part of showing Vivi "Singin' in the Rain" is that now she knows where I get many of the songs I burst into at random during the day.  Her eyes got wider each time we got to one she recognized.  She laughed and commented, “That’s funny!” when we got to this memorable scene: 

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Thoughts on Kids & TV When I was nannying for “my two little guys,” I didn’t watch TV with them.  I’m not a huge fan of having the TV on all the time anyway as it’s hard for me to focus on people or other things when it’s on, so I left it off.  We had lots of fun, educational things to do to fill our eleven hour days.  The one time I brought over a DVD for them to watch it was so they could see my youngest sister’s dance recital numbers. 
     One set of parents made a comment to me when I came in to the pediatric care unit at the hospital to visit their son that there wasn’t a whole lot else he could do besides watch DVDs while hooked up to things (like I would judge them for letting their son watch DVDs at all, much less while confined to bed in the hospital). 

     For the record, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with children watching some TV and some movies.  I don’t like it being on all of the time and have read plenty of research as to why limiting TV viewing especially for young kids is important for their intellectual, speech, and social development. 

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Children Will Listen & Watch I love to read, as many of you already know.  One of the things I enjoyed most when growing up was having my parents read to me.  One of the highlights of working with children is reading to them and seeing them get really into the story.  I’ve brought a number of books my mom kept from when we were little over to share with Vivi and her sisters.  It always makes me smile when she asks for one of the books by name or, at random, recites a line from one when something that is said or seen makes her think of it.  The funniest one random recite recently was from Dr. Seuss’s Green Eggs and Ham which she fondly refers to as Sam-I-Am.  She looks up at me all of a sudden and says firmly: “You let me be!”  I cracked up knowing where she’d gotten it from and that she was just recalling the line not telling me to leave her alone.  Her "go away" or "I’m not interested" is still the same as most toddlers: an emphatic NO to anything I say.   

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One of Those Nights I had trouble falling asleep last night, though, I was definitely tired.  After a couple hours, I got up and read for a bit.  I woke up having horrible nightmares this morning, but I still had a hard time getting out of bed after only three hours of sleep.  I said something to Jess about my plan to go right to bed when I got home not thinking about it until I got to my car that to a mother of a toddler and twins, who also works full-time outside of the home, that was probably along the lines of the adult version of a “NanaNanaBooboo!”  Trust me.  That’s not at all how I meant it.  I don’t wish sleep deprivation on anyone.

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Vocation Discernment and Encouragement This is the title and theme of a reflection I wrote inspired by Kevin and I attending the ordination Mass for 18 new deacons in our diocese last Saturday morning.  Ongoing discernment as a couple and encouraging our friends with their discernment of religious vocations have been two major aspects of our spiritual journey over the past few years.  

 

 

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Silent No More: These are some of the bravest individuals I have met.  What tremendous courage it takes to speak the truth after spending so much time believing and living out the lies!  My experience last spring with members of Silent No More who came to the 40 Days for Life vigil. 

Head over to Conversion Diary, to read Jen Fulwiler's wonderful tradition of 7 Quick Takes Friday.