I received Minted products in exchange for my review. My opinion? It's 100% mine! Raise your hand if you're ready for May crazy. Anybody? They do say May is the new December. And that is 100% truth. 'Tis the season for graduations, holidays, sacraments and everything in between. The extrovert in me rejoices, but the mom in me is still looking for a nap. Last week at our house, we hosted a massive first communion shindig for family and friends, then promptly loaded up and took prom photos of our high school junior. In the next two weeks, we celebrate two birthdays and an eighth grade graduation. Jesus, take the wheel. Of course, there's end-of-year everything and I have … [Read more...]
Sacramental Gift Ideas for Baptism, First Communion & Confirmation
Disclosure: A few of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you click through and place an order. It's an email I get at least once a week - people in search of the "just right" gift for the "just right" kid for a multitude of sacraments. Since we've celebrated six baptisms, five (almost!) first communions and one confirmation, we've seen and been recipients of some of the most meaningful and beautiful gifts. So I decided to dish - in one place - the best ideas I've got. And, please, if you're a business owner and you aren't mentioned here, leave your shop link in the comments! If you like winning free things, visit me … [Read more...]
How I Landed in the Catholic Church: A Conversion Story
It's no secret I love Jesus. I've never wanted that love of Christ to make people run for the hills. I always strive to meet people where they are, and sometimes they just aren't even in the pew. And that's okay. I grew up Protestant and I am deeply grateful to my parents for such a rich, varied and loving environment. We may have changed churches, a lot, but I can honestly say there isn't a church around where I would feel out of place today. It's largely due to that vast exposure of worship styles that opened my eyes to how others see Jesus. Fortunately, I never heard an ill word about Catholics until I visited a non-denominational Bible church and a Baptist church in college. I … [Read more...]
Lent…and the Thing We’re All Missing
There aren't many benefits to getting the flu, but I did find one. Time. Time on the couch, snuggled beneath two blankets, with a hot cup of tea and Grand Hotel on Netflix. Time to think. Time to rest. I don't get much uninterrupted time these days with six kids, 3-16. But this week, God gave me some extra hours to ponder and pray. And, if I'm being 100% honest, to scroll through Instagram. And, truly, that's why I am here, babbling to the blog. Scrolling through the never-endless feed of posed and real-life images, with snarky and heartfelt messages began to do a number on my soul. I love IG. It's one of my favorite places to hang out. But in overdose? Notsomuch. Many of my … [Read more...]
The Best of the Best
If you've been around these parts for a while, you know that my heart sure does love Catholic schools. It's worth noting that both Scott and I are the products of public education and I'm the daughter of a public school teacher. No one school is perfect for every kid, or every family. I can surely attest, though, to the blessing Catholic schools have been in our family's life. Below, I've rounded up my favorite posts. Later this week I have a few new ones coming your way where I answer the hard questions. So, pull up your knee socks and get ready. Catholic schools week is here! … [Read more...]
