A Fave Five of Practical Gifts.

Has it really been almost a month since I blogged????  Really????!!!!  I apologize, time has been flying by and it seemed like only a week or two.  It's time to start again, though I don't know where.  How about a Fave Five post?  Okay, here it goes.

I know it is very early for Christmas for most of you, but as I have shared before, I try to avoid shopping during Advent.  Autumn is an extremely busy time with birthdays, back to school, and getting ready for winter around here.  Therefore, I start my shopping around now and try to finish up by the end of August.  There are always those little things that need to be purchased last minute, for those I know exactly what I am buying and where to get it, to make the last minute shopping as painless as possible.  My children have gotten so used to me Christmasing in July that they have already proposed gift ideas--aren't they lovely. :)

Here are my fave five discoveries for practical gifts that are still so much fun!

1

 

My daughter earmarked this kit and is begging to have it soon. At first I wasn't too sure, it seemed like a lot of money at almost $60 but, it does make quite a few bars of soap and she calculated out that it was essentially the same price as buying that many bars from the Lehman catalog.  So it is on my list to acquire this Fall.

2

 

Buddy has an interest in camping and survival skills right now.  I plan on getting him his own sleeping bag, but also wanted to get him an activity.  Making these paracord bracelets is not only a fun handicraft, it is also a great potential business. Buddy is always looking for something to sell.  These bracelets are fun to wear, but they are also important to have while out hiking and exploring.  The children purchased one for their father last year that has a whistle and flint in the buckle.  At Paracord Store.com a kit to make a bracelet that includes instructions, cord, and a buckle is only $4.95!  I think that I will get some extra cord for him to make more bracelets, as well.

3

  

 

We are a mushroom loving family.  I know there are those who don't share our passion.  My sister refuses to go anywhere near a mushroom and will not allow her daughter to even try them.  But, I digress.  Mushrooms are not cheap though, especially the fancy kinds.  So, I found this wonderful kit to teach how to grow mushrooms.  This kit is a steal at $14.  Once you learn, Everything Mushrooms has everything you need to keep your little mushroom farm going. I'm thinking this will be for Hubby.

4

  

Now as much as we enjoy our mushrooms, we enjoy our cheese even more!  Now that I can finally have dairy again, I can't wait to get someone to make me cheese!  Quality hand made cheese has always been something I wished I could give my family but could never afford.  Solution, get one one your children to learn how to make it.  This had been my original plan for Cowgirl, I may just recommend the other kit to family members and buy this one myself because all past attempts at suggesting someone give this to her have failed.  They don't believe me that she actually wants it, but she does.  It is currently on sale for $22.49 on Amazon.  a great price for a kit of this quality.  I need to see if this is something I can purchase ahead of time.  I plan on pairing it with this book and an extra supply of cheese cloth.

5

 

That leaves Little Man.  He is tough.  He thinks he is a big kid and doesn't want to play with little kid toys, but can't handle big kid things either.  One thing I do know, he is the squirreliest toddler I have ever had at Mass.  I think these lacing cards will not only keep his attention during Mass but are much more fitting that him sneaking in a matchbox car and rolling in down the aisle--not that he would ever do that! 

Do you have any favorites to add?

Five Favorites: St Clare's Seeds

This is more like five reasons that St Clare's Seeds is my favorite.  However, I have a giveaway at the end so, keep reading.

1

 

SEEDS- Well, this might seem obvious, given the company name, but they really have wonderful, GMO-free, heirloom seeds.  The seeds are all carefully picked and packaged.  There are even organic seeds available.  The prices are extremely reasonable, including a $4 flat rate shipping.  There are so many seed catalogs, but I wonder about their quality and when the seeds were actually packed.  

2

INFORMATION--The website is packed with helpful information, but it doesn't stop there.  The seed packets have the most well written and in depth instructions I have ever seen for seeds.  They don't just say, "Plant when soil warms."  They give you additional information, recommendations, and any special handling required for the seed.

3 

CUSTOMER SERVICE--I have emailed St Clare's Seeds several times. I not only received a prompt answer, but it was courteous and thorough.   I have a heart for small businesses mostly because they care for their customers, not just the bottom line. 

4

 AUDIOBOOKS--Wait?  What?  St Clare's is more than just seeds and garden items.  They have a growing collection of family friendly audiobooks for great prices.  I have an ever expanding wishlist for Christmas gifts for the kids.  These are rich classics and timeless Catholic stories.  Many are out of print but are now available to us through St Clare's.

5

When I contacted St Clare's because I accidentally ordered two packets of seeds that just are conducive to my garden and area, they not only let me pick replacements, but allowed me to keep the originals to pass on and shipped the new ones for free.  So, I am giving away the seed packets.  Just comment below on which you would like to receive along with your favorite find on the St Clare's Heirloom Seeds website. 

For the giveaway:

   

Harris Model Parsnips

 

  

Texas Grano Onions 

Linking up with Ashley for more for Five Favorites.

  

{five favorites} Life Hacks

This whole concept of "hacks" is beyond me but it seems to be an internet phenomenon, so when in Rome....Honestly, they used to just be called good ideas, now they are hacks(????).  Anyway, here are my favorite five.  Linking up with Ashley at Big White Farmhouse.

1

My Under Desk Peddler--I don't know if that is the official title, but that is what I call it.  It's not that I spend hours online, but I do spend time every day on the computer-researching, writing, organizing the various groups that I run.  Time for exercising is not so easy to come by.  Then one day, I had an epiphany, why not combine them?  So, I got my under desk peddler and now I get to "ride" my bike and keep up with my online commitments.  It's not the same as actually biking, which is one of my favorite activities, but it is a good workout for my legs and abs.  I am peddling as I type this!  I have a very basic model like this one, however, I bought it at the thrift store for only $7!  :)

2

Cell Phone Call to Prayer-- My dear friend, Dara, dreams of having a large clock in her home that is set to chime specific hours for prayer.  Wonderful idea, but I knew I wasn't getting a grandfather clock anytime soon.  However, it got me thinking, how could I mark the hours?  CELL PHONE ALARM!  It is a fact of modern life that we have these intrusive  smart boxes of communication that society expects us to carry on our person 24/7.  While I am not perpetually attached to my phone, it is in my vicinity most of the day.  So, I set my alarm for 9AM, 12 noon, 3 PM, and 6PM.  I pray the Angelus on those hours, except for 3 Pm when I pray for God's mercy.  I don't get every hour in every day, because there are those times that my phone is left in the car, on the other side of the house or, ahem, out of battery; but it has increased my conscious effort to pray and marks my day with prayer.

3

Reusable Water Bottle--aka Have Water Will Travel--What do all the health experts always say?  Drink more water.  It is easy to get caught up in the day of kids and school and laundry and dishes.  I have a trick, though.  I refill my bottle whenever I am going to leave the house, bring it in the car and drink it while driving.  No matter how short the trip, I bring my bottle and refill it on the way home.  All of this usually means that I must make a B-line to the ladies' room as soon as we arrive, but it does help me get my water in, so that is the important part.

4

  Lunch Kit Station--With a busy family it can be tough to keep everyone fed on the go.  I try very hard not to buy food out in order to save money, and make sure everyone is eating healthy meals and snacks.  When we first visited our new house, I knew this set of shelves would be my lunch kit area.  I spent about $35 on stainless steal containers and various sized tins.  Each child has a food thermos and a lunch bag.  At a glance I can tell who hasn't unpacked their bag from the latest adventure.  I also have a couple of wrap-n-mats (really need to get a third one for Little Man) and a stainless steel water bottle for every person in the family.  When we are heading somewhere it is easy for everyone to grab a couple of containers, fill it up with a snack or a meal that I have prepared, put it all in their bag and head out the door.  Yes, it still requires me to cook a meal instead of drive through, but I usually make easy things for travel meals so it would take just as much time to go through a line and buy something.  Having everything in arm's reach and together makes hasty meals easier.  {Today was a busy day so there are things missing that haven't made it back here yet, but you get the idea.}

5

Prayer--Okay, so this isn't really a hack, but it helps.  It is easy to pray when there are big things going on and major calamities.  But, do you pray about the ordinary, every day occurrence?  Every time I need something (or if I want something to help my family's well being) I pray about it.  I ask God to help me find the best one for us.  I ask Him to provide the means to purchase it.  I also pray that He will guide my decisions and steer me clear of purchases that aren't beneficial or are not keeping with His Will for me.  It may seem silly, but it works.  Almost every time, I find the item in need at a thrift store, receive it as a present, or in some other way it pretty much falls into my lap.  The times I don't, I realize that I really don't need it or am gifted with an idea of how to work around not having that item.  I don't always get what I want, but I am never in need.  I must say that I don't pray for extravagant items or selfish causes.  However, just this morning I prayed for God to provide guidance on my garden purchases which seem to be mounting and I am very frugal.  I know a vegetable garden will benefit my family, but I want to also be a good steward of my funds.  My friend just texted that her sister has a rototiller we can borrow--no rental fee for me!  Thank you, Jesus!  That is money that can go elsewhere.  

Another example from this week, I had been in need of some new shirts.  Really it was a need.  Everything I had for spring either was horribly stained or damaged in some other way.  I try very hard to take care of my clothes but, having a toddler stuck to me all last summer did a number on my shirts.  Also, I lost about 30 lbs over the past 18 months, so many things no longer fit.  I prayed for God to help me in this purchase, to provide good prices, and guide my decisions. Yesterday, my godmother called up and said that she had some things she was clearing out of her closet that she wanted me to get to look through.   I went shopping through her clothes that were in like new condition and now have everything that I need.  There were even some pieces in there that I had wanted but didn't want to splurge on such a purchase because it wasn't like I needed it, I just liked the way it looked.

I'm not saying God is like a fairy godmother granting every wish and command.  There have been plenty of times that I prayed for a long time before finding a solution to my need; and even more times that I learned to do with out and sacrificed what I wanted. The most important part of approaching purchases this way is leaving it in God's Hands and seeking to do His Will not just get more stuff.

So, that's my two cents.  If I could just figure out how to wash dishes while I'm on the computer and do laundry while driving the car, I'd really be on to something! 

How about you?  What life hacks do you have to share?   

Five Favs: Clothes for Tweens

So I have been working on this for awhile.  Not only was it difficult to find places with modest clothes for tweens, finding time to write all of this out has seemed nearly impossible.  The terrible virus we had last week really knocked us for a loop.  We have never been so sick and are still recovering.  However, the weather is amazing right now and the kids have just run outside to bask in the fading sunshine after a very full day of co-op.  This is my shot, hope I can get it done. Linking up with Ashley.

 

1

Still one of my favorites is Lands End.  I considered pulling them off this list after they ran a four page centerfold special on Gloria Steinmen.  However, they have apologized and pulled the article.  I believe somewhere in upper management there is a struggle going on at Lands End between keeping the business model that has made them so popular and re-inventing themselves by adopting a new, hip, persona.  Thankfully so far the traditional ways have won out.  

What I like about Lands End is that their children's clothes go up to size 16 in clothing and 7.5 in shoes.  This means that most tweens are covered.   Speaking of covered, they have the modest bathing suits that I have seen, save the specially designed, purposely modest ones.  This year, they unveiled a line of swim dresses and have been expanding their woman's suits selection to include more modest options.  Also, while most stores that design one outfit for little girls and big girls force four-year-olds to dress like fourteen-year-olds (or worse), Lands End designs all the outfits to look like, well kids' clothes not teen runway models.  Their quality is second to none, as is their customer service.

2

In my endless searching--I cannot even tell you how many sites I previewed--I discovered Mikaose Boutique.  They have a wide selection of youthful jackets, sweaters, skirts, and bathing suits beginning in size XS for women.  In addition, there is a nice little selection of girls' dresses that go up to size 16. Their prices are very reasonable.  I am definitely going to be shopping there with Cowgirl, soon.

3

If you are looking for casual clothes, my favorite from my search is JenClothing.  I especially like the long Bermuda shorts for Women and Men that start at size 1 for ladies--making them a great option for tweens.  I do wish that they had a kids version available, however, as of yet they do not.  Please be advised that this is a Mormon site, as are many modest clothing outlets.  Regardless of what you think of their belief system, I must say that the Mormons preach modesty and actually deliver by opening shops specifically geared toward modest dress.  I wish some Catholic clothing designers would do the same.

4

For denim skirts that aren't the old hum drum type, I recommend Apostolic Clothing.  So many designs to choose from! I also appreciate their selection of tops that are grouped by sleeve length and include a number of layering tops.  Layering tops, ones that are thin enough to comfortably be worn under other clothes, make modest dressing so much easier because you can cover up and then layer on a trendy top, keeping up with the latest fashions while still maintaining your dignity.

5

Speaking of changing clothing up a bit to keep within your comfort zone, have you heard of eShakti? This is a perfect choice for more formal clothing for events, holidays, and dances.  For less than $10, you can have a dress customized in areas such as sleeve length, skirt length, neckline, and openness of back.  Have you ever seen a dress and wished it was just a little longer, just a little less low cut, etc?  We all have.  Now you have options.  As an added bonus, all dresses are fitted to your height at no extra charge.  That means that if you select a knee length dress, it will be knee length whether you are 5'0" or 5' 11".  How great is that?  Many of the dresses are a bit pricey, but they are custom made and there are always plenty in the sale category.  Cowgirl is hoping to get a dress for Buddy's Communion from here.  If I had known about it sooner, I would have, too!  However, I already purchased my dress. 

Have any others to share?  Where is your favorite place to shop for modest clothing?  Thanks for stopping by!

#5Fav: Cheap Books!!!

It's that time of year when I start planning for next school year and begin hunting for books for Christmas gifts.  I have hit on some tremendous deals and am so excited, although I keep telling myself that I must pace myself because there are months and months until the new school year and even more until Christmas and I always end up with too many books!  Are there really ever too many books?  There are never too many children, that is for sure, Mother Teresa reminds us of that.  I think books would come in second behind children, there are always more to read and explore!  I'm linking up with Ashley to bring you my Fave Five places to find good books, cheap!

1

Have you heard of Thriftbook ?(affiliate link)  Oh, you are in for a treat. I discovered it a couple weeks ago and it is now my number one pick.  Oh, the books!!!!  A mother on the Mater Amabilis Facebook group recommended the site and I am so happy she did.  I purchased fourteen high quality, beautiful books for only $52.  Shipping is free on all orders over $10 and for every $50 you spend, you earn a $5 off coupon.  I know, it just keeps getting better!  When it is time to shop for books, definitely hit them first.   The only down side that I can see with the site is that browsing is not as easy as on Amazon or other large book sellers.  However, that hasn't stopped me from buying a bunch of books and compliling a long wishlist.  Two of the new books arrived today and they are in fantastic shape, even though they were listed as "good condition."  Thriftbook is a keeper.

2

Christian Book Distributors (affiliate link) is not a discount book store, however they have fantastic sales.  There is always a homeschool sale over the summer, that is when I purchase my consumables like handwriting along with Christmas gifts.  Their regularly priced books are often discounted from the list price.  Be sure to sign up for the coupon alerts, there are some great ones that come along each year. I purchased some Adventures in Odyssey Cd's last summer to use as Christmas gifts, between their discounted prices and the 30% homeschool sale coupon, I got them for about half off the list price.

3

If you can get to a homeschool conference with a used book sale, you have hit pay dirt.  Honestly, you cannot believe what can be found and how much can be saved until you try it.  Since that isn't always possible, there are online mom to mom sales that are just as amazing.  Cathswap, Homeschool Market, and Mater B/S/T are three of my favorites.  These groups seem to be gaining popularity and new ones are always popping up. I like that I not only get a deal but get to help out another mom.

4

Speaking of buying online, this one deserves its own listing.  The Facebook group Operation Adoption has absolutely incredible books, most new or like new, for highly discounted prices.  Not only do your dollars go further, they help bring a child to a forever home.  I could not help but support the latest sale wholeheartedly.  I planned on buying two books and ended up with a whole stack, but I am so excited about them.  I can't wait to give them as gifts.  I really had to restrain myself, the books were that good.  Now, I must add that while I think there are never too many books, I also think that books need to be well written and good quality.  My favorite are beautiful picture books, the kind that don't even need words, the prints are so captivatig.  We are a book collecting family, but we are also discerning readers.  The books on Operation Adoption may be low in price, but they are all high in literary value.  Please check them out and help bring a waiting child home!

5

There is no link for this, you will need to search yourself.  The hands down best places for books are library sales and thrift stores.  Seriously, I spent $2 at the last library sale and walked away with ten books, most of which were like new.  There are lots of people who don't appreciate a good book, and children that outgrow books more quickly than expected.  These barely used treasures are often donated to thrift stores and libraries.  Your money helps with mission trips, charity works, and purchasing new books for a town library.  If you don't know where any thrift stores are, check out The Thrift Shopper for a nationwide directory.  There is also Book Sale Finder, although I have never actually used this site, so I cannot speak to their reliability for information.

Where do you like to book shop?

5 Fave: Reads from the Internet This Week

This is a quick list of my five a favorite posts or articles that I came across this week.  There is so much out there, but it is always nice when you discover something really worth reading.  Enjoy!

Linking up with Ashley.  Did you read anything worth sharing this week?  Please comment below.

1

We try very hard to limit the use of devices and games in our home. In fact we have no video games (only the exercise type games for the Wii that we play as a family every once in a great while).  I have a Kindle with games and apps for the kids and each one gets 30 minutes a day of "Freetime" they use it about once every other month.  Until we recently moved, the television was kept in a cabinet and was only opened for an hour of educational programming a day, some days we forgot, some weeks we forgot.  Now that the television is in plain sight, I find my boys in particular are constantly asking to watch a show.  However, when we first moved, there was no Internet here for a month, which meant no Netflix, which meant no shows.  For the first three weeks we did not have a television hooked up at all, there were no videos to watch, either.  Although my son protested, after the first couple days, they stopped asking about the television being hooked up.  They just played.  Not that they never played and created before, they did, but without the temptation of instant entertainment, they let their imaginations soar.  We almost didn't hook the TV up at all after that.

This article, which I saw posted multiple places on Facebook, is a startling look at what most young people experience when faced with the absence of their comfort items--music, phones, and the Internet.  While I question the fact that they could not have any personal contact of any kind, even face to face.  I think that it is a wake up call of why culture is going the way it is.  It is nearly impossible to listen to the whispers of God on your heart when you are continually surrounded by distraction and noise.  The need to be entertained crushes the prospect of creativity and ingenuity, it also makes us a very self-centered society.  I really encourage you to read the full article and share it around to family and friends.  

2

As a mom who has had a struggling reader, I truly appreciate Kelly's article about trusting that your child will learn to read. I only wish she wrote it about seven years ago.  Reading is fundamental as the old tag line goes, but it isn't innate.  It also isn't a race.  We, as a society, put such a premium on being the first and checking off our list.  Education is a journey not a to do list.  Just because your child starts reading at four and a half completely independently, like one of mine did, doesn't mean that you have all the answers and he is bound for a PHD from Harvard.  Likewise, a child who takes until ten with intense phonics instruction to really get it, as one of mine did, does not mean you are failing and your child will never amount to anything in life.   Reading is a process and a skill, it is also a key to adventure for the rest of your life.  Raising children that love to read is much more important and raising ones that read early or easily. 

3

We are at the point of the year where homeschooling gets hard.  Hang in there Mama!  If you need some encouragement or streamlining (Don't we all?), check out this post from Homeschool Creations and give you little school a face lift!

4

If you are like me, you are probably looking ahead to next year and beginning to plan.  The ever resourceful Auntie Leila has a wonderful post on how to organize a homeschool notebook in order to design your own curriculum and keep track of what you are accomplishing all year.  I highly recommend checking it out.  I must say that I follow a similar routine but am not very good at keeping consistent records, this post inspired me to do better.  Thanks, Auntie Leila!

5

I really like Simcha Fisher.  She has a way of writing that feels like you are her best friend and she invited you over for tea.  She is always funny, and always real; but more importantly she is always devoutly Catholic.  I discovered her article about confession on Debbie's Facebook page.  It is a lovely read and one that is so appropriate as we head into Lent in a few short weeks.  Never be afraid to seek God's Mercy.  He died for you, just the way you are.

In case you are wondering, you can follow me on Facebook here.  God bless!

Five Things that I Thought Would Be Our Favorites

It's January...oh, January!  Even though the snow hasn't made an appearance here, yet, it is still the doldrums of winter schooling.  Why is January so hard?  Every year I resolve that it won't be, but it always is.

As I am thinking of how our year is about half over, and starting to look ahead to next year.  I thought I would share the five things I planned that I thought would be our favorites but aren't.  Just being honest here!

1

Twin Sister Productions

I thought that these cassettes with catchy tunes would be all the rage.  However, instead of effortlessly learning amazing facts by  heart with easy, my children were just annoyed by the hokey toe-tapping songs.  I'm not saying these are bad, I'm just saying that they didn't work for our family.

2

Free Download Audiobooks

Okay, so maybe this doesn't belong on this list because the only reason they aren't our favorite is because we haven't been able to get them to work.  I have an MP3 player and set of speakers but try as I might, can't get the book to download.  So, I tried my Kindle, it has an audiobook tab after all.  Same problem!  I read that there is an app for Libravox (remember when things just worked and didn't need a special app?  Yeah, me, too!) However, every time I try to download it, it says it is sold out and will be back in stock soon???!!!??? (Shakes head)

Sigh, so we just unearthed the ipod from the boxes that remain to be unpacked, and I am going to try again.  Before you think all is lost in the car, we have been really enjoying the Music Masters Cd's and some audiobooks from the library.

3

Almanzo Wilder: Life Before Laura

You would think that a boy who thinks about Almanzo Wilder day and night and will do anything to get to watch something, anything on television would be wild about a documentary of the Almanzo's life.  Sadly, he wasn't.  It is well done but he said that he wished there were actual people acting out the history instead of a narrator just explaining what happened in each place.  You can't win them all.  I still think we learned something, but once was enough.

4

The United States Cookbook 

 

This is definitely a case of "it's not you, it's me".  This is a wonderful cookbook, but with so many food restrictions in our family, it seems impossible to use, even though I thought I could adapt it.  When we first tried it, there were several less dietary restrictions and I still had to skip recipes.  I don't know what I was thinking when I decided to do this again...oh, wait, I remember, it was those beautiful pictures of Jessica's lovely daughter cooking up the most scrumptious treats and learning about the states at the same time.  LOL.  I thought I could somehow capture the same spirit even if we had to eliminate at least 3 major food categories and members of a couple more.  Oh, well.  There are greater problems in the world for sure and I truly enjoyed traveling across the USA vicariously via blog posts with Jessica's beautiful, young ladies.  I have decided instead to just pick a recipe from each region and make it together.  Finding 5-6 recipes and adapting them is much more manageable than doing 50!  Best laid plans, right?

5

 Call to Celebrate Reconciliation

 

This book looked great when I first picked it up, but once we started to use it I just didn't like it at all.  It seemed kind of scattered and the lessons varied from above a second grader's head to just plain filler.  I tried adapting it and only doing part but the more I went through it the less I liked it.  It was quickly dropped, but our First Confession preparation was not harmed in the least.

As they say, you live and learn.  I am happy to see, as I revisited our original plans to see what I had altered along the way, that we are in better shape than I was fearing.  We have tackled a lot of what we set out to do.  We still have work to do, but that is what snow days are for.  Fortunately, my children don't know about lazy snow days when there's nothing to do but play in the snow and drink hot cocoa.  :)

How is your year going?  Any changes you've had to make?  New discoveries you wish to share?  Thanks for stopping by.

Linking up with Ashley for #FiveFavs

5 Faves: Communion Preparation

So, Buddy's First Communion is in four months--FOUR MONTHS!!!!!  That might as well be tomorrow as far as my uber planning personality is concerned.  Now that the distractions of moving and the holiday season has passed. It is time to get down to business.  I realized that I have not yet begun the Communion notebook that I was planning.  So here is my finalized plan for you, but also for me.  I will try to post pictures of sample pages, too.

Linking up with Ashley for #5Faves.

1

I am a Child of God Section-  These pages will be about Buddy and his life in the Church.  It will contain the following pages:

1. My Name-- The pictures and names of his two patron saints. (You could also include a story of how the name was picked.)
2. My Baptism--Pictures and details about his baptism including date, place, and Godparents. (I am also going to make a second page with his "Baptismal Garment" on it.)
3. My Favorite Saints-- Pictures and descriptions of his two favorite saints. 

2

Salvation History Section- These pages will trace the plan of salvation from Genesis to the Gospels

1.  God Makes the Earth--List the seven days of Creation and what happened on each day.  (Just a sentence for each at most, this should fit on one page.)
2. Adam and Eve--Narration of the fall and entrance of original sin in Buddy's own words.  (I will have him tell me the story as I write so there isn't any pressure of spelling, etc.)
3. Noah and the Covenant-- We will read the story of the flood and make a page with a rainbow and God's promise to Noah.
4. Jesus is born--A decorative page where Buddy can draw the story of the first Christmas.
5. Teachings of Jesus--I am using this book and having Buddy design a page with words and drawings to explain what he learned from the book.
6. Jesus Redeems the World--A narration in his own words of how Jesus suffered, died, and rose to free us from our sins.

3

My First Reconciliation Section--These two pages as a way to remember and preserve the memory of this special day and how Buddy felt about it.

1. Pictures of My Day--A scrapbook style page of the photos I took.
2. My Memories from that Day--A narration of Buddy's memories and what reconciliation meant to him.

4

The Most Holy Eucharist Section--This will be an explanation of the Eucharist and why it is so special. 

1. The Last Supper--A page of drawings and words by Buddy to show what happened on the last supper, which was the first Eucharistic sacrifice.
2. Eat My Body, Drink My Blood--A narration of how Jesus' body and blood became the Holy Eucharist offered for all our sins.
3. Patron Saint of First Communion--A scrapbook style page for Blessed Imelda.  (We will read her story and listen to the Holy Heroes version before creating this page.)

5

My First Holy Commuion Section--These pages, like the First Reconciliation section are a scrapbook of sorts to preserve the memories and pictures of this most special day.

1. Pictures of My Day--Buddy will get to pick which pictures he wants to include and create page(s) to keep in his notebook.
2. My Memories from that Day--A narration of Buddy's memories and what receiving Jesus for the first time meant to him.
3. Family and Friends--A scrapbook of cards and notes from family and friends.
4.  A Letter to Buddy--As I have for special events in all my children's lives, I am going to write and scrapbook a special letter to Buddy, if I can see the page through my tears.

For any information on the books we are using to prepare for First Communion, please check out my post in the Let's Get Planning Section on Fist Communion Preparation.

Any questions or recommendations?  Please leave a comment, I love to hear from you.  

Giving Gifts, Not Presents

I really believe that the best gifts aren't bought in a store.  If you are having trouble finding the perfect gift for that certain someone, check out this list of great last minute gifts that anyone can give.

The Gift of Time

For the past few years, my cousin has had my children over for pizza, a Christmas movie, and cupcake decorating.  That is their Christmas gift.  I think it is great!  However, I'm not the only one, my children look forward to it all year.  Despite all the other presents they open on Christmas, the only one they talk about all year is this simple get together.  It isn't the pizza and movie.  It isn't that the party is a lavish, over-the-top bash.  It is simple as simple can be.  What they like is the time they get with their "aunt" and cousins.  Is there some special time you could spend with someone special? Watching a movie, going for a hike, making ice cream sundaes, playing ball in the yard..the time will be the best gift you could ever give.

The Gift of Experience

As a general rule, we are not a family that gives big gifts.  Some of that has been due to financial constraints, but also we know money can't buy happiness.  Each year for our children's birthdays, they get to go on a special family trip.  We have been to museums, aquariums, historic trains (lots of historic trains), Medieval Times, and so many other places.  We don't give them all the same trip, it is their chose.  Some trips are big, some are small.  This year, Buddy wanted to go apple picking with his Aunt Kathy (who lives in Texas but was visiting) and have cider and donuts.  Almost six years ago, we were gifted with the use of a townhouse and took Cowgirl on her dream trip to Williamsburg, VA.    We have spent $30 to $300--but the real riches are the time we have spent together.  These trip shave opened opportunities to our children that have taught them so much.  They have also forced us to plan special family days that we would never take the time to do otherwise.  We don't buy souvenirs or go out for fancy meals--unless that is part of the trip plan--but the days are always treasures for all of us.  Is there a special place you could take your child or aunt?  Have you been to an art museum lately?  Has your love done ever attended a Jazz concert on the green?  Pick a special place, set a day and spend the day experiencing something new while you enjoy each other's company.  The memories will be priceless!

The Gift of Tradition

My mother was a person who lived for her family and holidays.  her house was not just decorated, it was decked out in every way and every room.  Through the years, many traditions arose around those decorating patterns, which by the way were for EVERY. SINGLE. HOLIDAY!  Unfortunately, Cowgirl was the only grandchild to have known my mother when she was still healthy, and was only a pre-schooler when she became ill.  She remembers but she doesn't.  All of the children are missing Grandma, and it got me to thinking about how much they missed of Grandma and all she would have done with them.  One of the many traditions, when we were small, was to make and decorate salt dough ornaments each year.  I know it is one of those traditions that would have extended to the grandchildren.  So this year, I am having my nieces and nephews over for a salt dough decorating party. This way the cousins can spend time together and get to know their Grandma along the way.  Do you have a special tradition that has been forgotten?  A special recipe you could teach to the next generation?  Keep the love going and build those traditions, again.

The Gift of Giving

I have said before that on St Nicholas Day, my children receive a gift that must be given away.  A few years ago, we began giving money for them to spend on the needy in the best way they find fit.  It is completely up to them.  They spend hours with charity gift catalogs finding the best and biggest combination of gifts for the money they received.  Last year, I wanted to honor friends who had given us so much--not just in things, but in love and support.  What could I give them?  They needed and wanted nothing.  So, I had a bio-sand filter built in their name and they were thrilled.  Their gift will keep on giving and bless so many, no doubt that gift will earn them some riches in Heaven as well.  Does your loved one have a favorite charity?  Is there a special project that you could contribute to and then visit with your loved one?  Or is there a charity that offers "gift cards" so they can pick the gift?  Their gift will bless not only them but those who receive its fruits.

The Gift of Prayer

We often think of Mass cards as gifts to give to grieving families, but there is no one who is not in need of a little extra prayer.  Mass cards are a simple way to honor your loved one and give them an everlasting gift.  I have given these for many birthdays, and even the children who have received them have been so thrilled to know that they are being prayed for.  Does your loved one have a devotion to a particular saint?  Find a shrine for that saint and request a Mass remembrance card.  Not sure about giving a Mass card, or your loved one is Christian, but not Catholic?  What if you create a Spiritual Bouquet, promising to offer certain prayers and devotions on their behalf?  Prayer is a one size fits all gift that is wealth beyond wealth, despite costing nothing but time and devotion.

I thought of this list because I have been searching high and low for a gift for my Goddaughter who is 14.  Tough age as far as gifts.  Nothing seemed quite right. I finally remembered how I always say it's not the buying that makes gifts special.   So, my gift to her is an "Adoration Dinner Date."  On a Friday where I can get babysitting (she is my go to babysitter), we are going to go out to dinner to the restaurant of her choice, then spend an hour at Adoration in prayer together.  Adoration is my favoirtie devotion, so this is really a combination of all five gifts--time, experience, tradition, giving, and prayer.  I am very excited to spend this time with her, especially the time we will have adoring Our LORD!

Do you have any gift suggestions to add?  I'd love to hear them.  I'm already planning for next year! 

Five Fav: Advent Traditions (That We Aren't Doing This Year)

We are in the home stretch of Advent.  Wow, that flew by!  One more candle and a handful of days and the Christmas season will begin.  I am linking up with Jenna to share some of our most beloved Advent traditions that just aren't happening this year.  My beautiful friend, Jessica, has told me that life has seasons and there are seasons of an overabundance of activity, and others where just doing what is required liturgically is more than enough.  I am embracing that this season, even though it seems that Jessica is always able to do a little bit extra no matter the season, I appreciate her kind and truthful words.  After a year of goodbyes and upheaval, I needed to keep Advent simple to keep it as focused and holy as possible.

However, if you are looking for ideas to ramp up the final week or start planning for next year.  Here are five tried and true favorites.

1

http://www.holyheroes.com/

Holy Heroes Adventures have become a fixture in our home.  My children talk about the Holy Heroes guides as if they are personal friends.  We did not have internet for the first half of Advent and so we could not link up for the adventure.  While they still discussed the various skits from the past for each feast day, they have not actually complained about missing the adventure.  After so many years of doing it, perhaps we needed a year off to appreciate it more.  If you want to sign up, it still isn't too late, and even one week of Holy Heroes will get your children hooked for the Lenten Adventure coming up in a couple of months.

2

We began celebrating St Lucia's Day when Cowgirl and I read through the Kirsten books five years ago.  Last year, I made her a new crown and purchased a new, beautiful nightgown because she had outgrown the old ones.  Traditionally, we have been awoken to coffee and pastries (any where from prepackaged cinnamon rolls to authentic Swedish delights).  We then continued our celebration with Swedish crafts and wrapped it up with Swedish meatballs, buttered noodles, pea soup, and lingon berry jam for dinner.  Our celebration has varied from simple (pre-made everything just for breakfast) to the whole shabang.  This year it didn't happen, though.  I had made sure to find the crown just after we moved, but realized a few days before St Lucia's day that I hadn't unearthed the gown yet.  I thought we could still pull it off, although there would be no Swedish treats, and considering I no longer can tolerate gluten, milk, and coffee, among other things, I wondered what we would serve.  However, I knew I could come up with something, that is until I shot awake at 5:30 AM last Sunday and realized I had gotten nothing prepared and St Lucia's Day was already here.  I felt terrible, but Cowgirl took it in stride.  I thought perhaps we could have a St Lucia's Day Observed this Saturday, but our calendar is once again jam packed with house moving/fixing, and holiday festivities.  I think for this year, it must be left by the wayside.

3

The sacrifice manger is a tradition that is so simple but so powerful.  I can remember the kids' dismay the first time we did it when they saw the amount of straw to comfort baby Jesus on Christmas Day and wished they had sacrificed more.  Of course, Buddy didn't completely understand the whole concept at first.  After explaining how the manger worked, I set it out on the bow window but kept the straw on the counter in the kitchen(I knew where it would all end up if it were left at the height of preschooler hands.)  He came bounding up to me minutes later, "Mommy, I need straw for the manger."

"Why do you need straw?"  I inquired

"To make Jesus comfortable, remember?"

"Yes, I know that is the purpose of the straw, but what did you do to earn the straw?"

"I walked through the house twice without anyone talking to me."

He had completely misconstrued the example of "doing something without being told!"  LOL, oh, Buddy.  Anyway, I have considered breaking out the manger this weekend for a strong finish to Advent.  I would have to make a new one, but at least there is plenty of hay in the shed thanks to our new rabbits.  We have been trying to remember to sacrifice without the manger, and particularly to sacrifice our time and money to raise funds for Mary's Meals.

4

I don't remember where I even saw the idea first, but the traveling wise men have entertained us immensely the past few Advents.  This my children have queried, and so I have promised that they will show up on Christmas and scout around until Epiphany.  If you are looking for ideas of what to do with you wise men, check out Jennifer's link-up.

5

Reading a portion of the Bible and crafting an ornament each night has both delighted and frustrated us in the past.  The Jesse Tree was set to make an appearance, and I must say that since getting permanent ornaments thanks to a Jesse Tree ornament swap a few years ago, it has been much easier to keep it going even on busy nights.  However, while the tree arrived safely at the new house with all ornaments in tow, the base that hold the tree up did not.  This accompanied with the lack of Holy Heroes, put this tradition on the back burner until next year.  I think, though, that it gives me more motivation to complete a Jesus Tree this Lent, something I have thought of but not gotten around to yet.

Despite all of these set back, I think that we have had a good Advent.  It was bare bones, but sometimes doing less is more.  Do you have any traditions new or old you would like to share?  I'm already planning for next year, so I would love to hear.  Thank you and God bless!

Correction:  Five Fav's is now hosted by Ashley.

Works of Mercy Bouquet: Visit the Sick

It's been awhile since I have posted one of these because I hit a road block when seeing that the next one was visit the sick.  Part of it was because I have done so much visiting of the sick that it became an emotional topic for me.  Another part was that I had a lot of ideas of what visiting the sick should and shouldn't be but not a lot of ideas of where or how to do it.  So, I am changing my format slightly and giving four tips on what the sick and their caretakers need most in a visit, and then a list of ideas of how to visit those who are sick and may not get many, if any, visits.

1

Keep visits short and timely.  My mother, as many of you know, had brain cancer for six and a half years.  She was a teacher and avid volunteer around town, that meant she had a lot of friends and connections.  This proved to be a blessing during the difficult time.  Any given day, at least one person had stopped in to say hello and "shoot the breeze" with my mom--she loved to talk!  However, as much as we appreciated the love and support, it was difficult to constantly have people stopping in and some times staying for hours.  Towards the end, my mom was really only "up and ready" for about an hour or two a day, but people still wanted to visit.  The visitors meant well and were acting out of love.  My first suggestion, though, in being a helpful visitor is keep your visit brief unless requested to stay longer.  Illnesses, especially serious ones, are very draining on the patient and the family.  While, we were always happy to see those who loved us stop by, there were times when we really just wanted to be left alone.  In addition, entertaining people for long stretches of time while caring for my mother was difficult to say the least.  So, please ask the family or caregiver when is best to visit, and plan on it just being a short stop in, not full day visit.

2

  Bring nutritious foods and snacks.  All those lovely friends that stopped by supplied us with a steady stream of cake, pie, cookies, and pastries.  Chocolate is a delicious distraction, however it is also not a healthy one.  In those early years when I was there daily with two young children in tow, my health declined as my weight soared.  I was busy cleaning and helping, especially entertaining guests with coffee and a scrubbed kitchen.  I had no time to sit and eat a meal, so I grabbed what was easy to find--namely junk food.  My children developed a serious sweet tooth and my mom also rapidly gained weight, making caring for her more difficult.  We appreciated the sentiment and enjoyed the bounty but really it didn't help our situation to keep filling up on sugary carbs.  If you would like to bring a treat to the person infirmed, choose a healthy treat like a fruit basket or veggies and dip.  Let the sweetness come from a lovely visit, not just a sugary treat.

3 

Bring something to share.  Especially toward the end, when my mom was home bound, she appreciated people bringing news and photos to share.  Sometimes it was their grandchild's latest photo, or a clipping from the magazine about the school where my mom had worked.  On occasion, someone would bring a video or CD to listen to.  It became increasingly difficult for her to focus, but she always appreciated the thought.  Bringing something happy to talk about helps cut through the isolation and loneliness of being stuck home sick.  After all, who wants to spend their days just discussing doctors, tests, and medicines.

4  

Remember the family and caregiver need visits, too. Caring for a loved one can be very isolating for the family.  Your life revolves around what is best for the person in need.  It was always nice, although rare, when someone would go out of their way to stop by my house or give me a call.  I needed support and cheering up, too.  I felt guilty asking for help, though.  So, make a little time to cheer up the caregivers.  If they live in the same home, take time to talk to them about themselves.  Ask how they are doing, not just how their sick relative is.  Serious illness affects the entire family.

5

If you are blessed to not have a sick loved one of friend in your life right now, here are some other options for your famliy to live this work of mercy:

1. Happy Mail: Send a cheerful message and some distractions to a chronically ill child. Help brighten up their world and help them forget about the worries no child should face.
2. Bring Flowers to a Nursing Home: We have done this with centerpieces from events.  Bring the flowers to a local nursing home and ask for them to be given to a patient who hasn't had a visitor in a long time.  We have also dropped off candy and cards with the same request.

Remember Hospitalized and Sick Religious:  Priests, brothers, and nuns are always the first to pray for the sick or visit the lonely.  However when they are hurting, they are often forgotten. Organize a card shower for a religious in your community in need of support.  Ask church groups and friends to send a card, and then invite three other people to do the same. A shower of cards will surely lift their hearts and remind them that they are loved.

Linking up with Jenna.

Easy Slow Cooker Meal: Ham and Black Beans and more

Dwija is having a recipe link up.  I don't have any pictures, but wanted to jump on the bandwagon.  My slow cooker is my right arm, my favorite household tool.  It's like my own personal chef.  I dump it all in the in the morning and have dinner ready for me at night.  I have a collection of slow cookers, three to be exact....maybe I should photograph that!?!

Anyway, this is my favorite easy recipe and my family gobbles it up.  it just may be the easiest recipe I have.  I like the dump and walk away technique of slow cooking.  If a recipe has multiple steps, requires extensive prep or asks to precook portions of the ingredients, I usually walk away.  My one exception is the fact that I have a slow cooker plate that works with my Kitchen Kraft pots.  I can start something on the stove and then add the rest of the ingredients before placing on the plate.  My traditional round slow cooker with removable crock is what I use for side dishes like sweet potatoes or beets.  I also use it for desserts like pumpkin pudding. 

Without further adieu, here is my recipe:

• One hambone with some ham still attached (If you like a lot of ham, add some mre in, if not put in just the bone)
• 
  
• One pound dry black beans
• 
  
• One box beef stock
• 
  
• 2 cups of water

Optional add ins:
A shot or two of Worcheshire sauce
One chopped onion
A shot of soy sauce

Place ham bone in slow cooker, pour remaining ingredients over top.  Make sure that the beans are completely covered with liquid.  Turn it on and walk away.  It has to cook at least 6-8 hours but tastes even better when it goes a little longer.  We serve it over rice, baked potatoes, or just straight up in a bowl.  Makes great quesadilla filling when left over.  We often add hot sauce to left overs and mix it with some gluten free pasta and shredded cheese for an easy Chili Mac dinner.  We can seriously get at least 4-5 meals out of one pot of black beans and ham, and my children are all very big eaters.  We just keep reusing, re-purposing, and adding a little of this or that to stretch the beans.

This recipe makes a really generous portion and I usually have more than we can eat in a couple of meals.  I freeze a large Pyrex container for another night when I don't have time to cook, and I have my slow cooker do the work of getting it heated up as well.  I simply place the frozen portion in the crock and set on low, with in 5-6 hours it is piping hot and delicious!

So, as I write this, I am feeling inspired to share more....so, let's make this a Five Fave post and link up with Jenna, too.

2

Crockpot Chicken

This is the most versitle and easy recipe out there and again makes extras for left overs.

• One "family" package chicken leg quarters (if frozen start on high and then switch to low 2 hours in)
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• One spring rosemary

Put chicken in the crock pot, drizzle over oil, top with rosemary.  Cook until you are ready for dinner (6+ hours) on low.   What's that you say? No fresh rosemary?  No problem.  Season the chicken anyway you like--salt and pepper; celery seed, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt; Seasoned salt and paprika; or onion powder and oregano.  Really anything you want.  We use the left over chicken in salads, soups, and pasta dishes.  I save the broth made by slow cooking and use it in place of water to make tasty rice or a delicious, hearty soup the next day.

3

Lemon Chicken

• One whole chicken with gizzard bag removed  
• One whole lemon
• salt and pepper

Place lemon inside chicken cavity, put chicken in crock pot, season with salt and pepper.  Cook on low 8-10 hours.  That's it. 

4

"Mole" Chili

My youngest son is allergic to tomatoes, that has changed our diet quiet a bit. One thing we missed the most was chili.  I develped this tomato free chili to fill that void.  Best of all, it is so easy!

• One bag of beans (We like to use pinto or black beans but you can use any bean you like)
• One onion chopped
• One small jar pickled jalepeno slices
• 1 Tbsp Chili powder
• 2 Tbsp Onion Powder
• 2 Tbsp Garlic Powder
• 2 Tbsp Cumin
• 2 Tbsp Paprika
• 3 Tbsp unprocessed cocoa powder (The kind for baking not hot chocolate.) 
• 2 Tbsp mini dark chocolate chips (optional--but adds some body)
• 2 baked sweet potatoes with skins removed, mashed (optional--again adds body to sauce.  I have been known to cheat and use sweet potato baby food)
• One pound ground meat, browned (optional--If you don't have time to brown the meat, just have a meatless chili, we eat it both ways.)

Add first 8 ingredients to slow cooker along with meat and sweet potatoes, if desired.  Cook on low for 6-8 hours on low until beans are tender.  Add cocoa and chocolate and cook on low an additional hour.  Serve with sour cream.

5

Spinach and Rice "Quiche"

This isn't a slow cooker meal, but it is a family favorite and so easy to make.

• 1 serving brown rice (I use minute rice or left over)
• 1 box frozen spinach at least partially defrosted
• 6-8 eggs beaten
• garlic salt
• grated cheese

In a rectangular baking dish (mine is about 6 x 10) spread rice on the bottom.  Top with spinach. Sprinkle on garlic salt and grated cheese to taste, I only use a very little Parmesan cheese.  Pour beaten eggs over top so that they fill the pan and cover the rice and spinach.  Bake at 350 until middle is set.  Cut into squares and serve.

     

Any great recipes that you have to share?  Post them in the comments, please.