Pondering His Goodness

Ave Maris Stella

2011-07-18T08:58:00.000-07:00

Show us your Mercy, Lord

2011-05-03T07:29:00.000-07:00

From the Liturgy of the Hours, Morning Prayer....

Show us your mercy, Lord; our misery is known to us. May no evil desires prevail over us, for your glory and love dwell in our hearts.

Love as God Loves

2011-05-02T09:11:00.001-07:00

As a Christian, as a Catholic, as a Carmelite....we are called to love as God loves. While there is a part of me, that very human part that understands the jubilation at the death of Osama Bin Laden....we must understand that God doesn't love me or you more than he loves him. In fact, on the very day of Divine Mercy I can only hope that Osama Bin Laden prayed, asked forgiveness and received the mercy that I have faith that God will give each one of us if we truly and humbly ask. Love as I have loved you.......praying that God increases my love and your love today.

Divine Mercy Sunday

2011-05-01T07:42:00.000-07:00

I have been away from my blog for a very long time for various reasons. Today I'd like to share a post from someone who has been such an inspiration to me (though she most likely does not know it:-). I see myself in her writings at times and as is God's plan, she encourages me to continue, to move forward, to listen, and to allow our Lord's peace and mercy comfort my soul.

One of my favorite people and blogs....one day I hope to meet her in person:-)

Carmelitemom

A Prayer for Priests

2011-02-22T07:04:00.000-08:00

From EWTN

Jesus, meek and humble of heart,

give all priests Thy spirit of humility;

Jesus, poor and worn out for souls,

give all priests Thy spirit of zeal;

Jesus, full of patience and mercy for sinners,

give all priests Thy spirit of compassion;

Jesus, victim for the sins of the world,

give all priests Thy spirit of sacrifice;

Jesus, lover of the little and the poor,

give all priests Thy spirit of charity.

Mary, Queen of the Clergy, pray for us;

and obtain for us numerous and holy

priests and religious.

Amen.

No Greater Love

2011-02-11T15:11:00.000-08:00

Looking forward to seeing this very, very soon!!!!!

Ignatius Press will have this available.....and Amazon has it available for pre-order.

The Gospel of Matthew

2011-01-29T09:00:00.000-08:00

At our Carmelite meeting last month the Commentary on Sacred Scripture was mentioned...I purchased The Gospel of Matthew since many of our upcoming Sunday readings will be from Matthew....what a wonderful resource! I highly recommend it! It's even available on the Kindle!

The Gospel of Matthew

The Divine Intimacy Calendar Schedule

2011-01-20T07:23:00.000-08:00

The Divine Intimacy calendar schedule for 2011

2011-01-20T06:21:00.000-08:00

A Trinity Prayer

Love of Jesus Fill us.
Holy Spirit Guide us.
Will of the Father be done.

2011-01-19T08:33:00.000-08:00

Lord Jesus, our affluence is making us less human, our entertainment has become a drug, a source of alienation, and our society’s incessant, tedious message is an invitation to die of selfishness.

- Pope Benedict XVI (during the 4th Station of the Cross in 2006)

Our Lady of Mount Carmel Novena, Day 2

2010-07-08T05:10:00.000-07:00

Second Day

Most Holy Mary, Our Mother, in your great love for us you gave us the Holy Scapular of Mount Carmel, having heard the prayers of your chosen son Saint Simon Stock. Help us now to wear it faithfully and with devotion. May it be a sign to us of our desire to grow in holiness.

(pause and mention petitions)

Say: Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be

Our Lady of Mount Carmel, pray for us.

Our Lady Of Mt. Carmel Novena, Day One

2010-07-07T14:45:00.001-07:00

First Day

O Beautiful Flower of Carmel, most fruitful vine, splendor of heaven, holy and singular, who brought forth the Son of God, still ever remaining a pure virgin, assist us in our necessity! O Star of the Sea, help and protect us! Show us that you are our Mother!

(pause and mention petitions)

Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be

Our Lady of Mount Carmel, pray for us.

Bl. Zelie and Louis Martin

2010-07-02T10:45:00.000-07:00

Bl. Zelie and Louis Martin, July 12

Lord, you have given to Blessed Louis and Marie Zélie the grace to lead a life of holiness as Christian spouses and parents. Grant that through their intercession and example each of us may be able to love and serve you faithfully, living worthily our own vocation. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

Nature at it's best....

2010-06-20T07:21:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe how long it's been since I've made an entry. Had many struggles these past few months so I've put many things on the back burner.

Had a particularly stressful day yesterday, came home from a meeting to find my husband mowing. Now...we have almost three acres so it can take some time....but as he was mowing the pasture I heard him turn the engine off and yell for me to get the camera...and this is what we found....
She/he was there all day until we saw momma come at around 8:30 that evening. Seeing the two reunited was so heartwarming. Certainly God new I needed to see this punkin!

Salve Regina: Hail Holy Queen

2010-04-21T05:48:00.000-07:00

My friend, Laura, shared this video today -- so beautiful.

NO GREATER LOVE Trailer

2010-04-19T09:08:00.000-07:00

Can't wait to see it! Thank you, Gretchen, for pointing me to this You Tube!

Missed my monthly Carmelite meeting.....

2010-04-17T10:38:00.000-07:00

Well, so the last few weeks (OK maybe month) has been......challenging. Just the twist and turns of life. I don't know how people without faith in Divine Providence get through -- it certainly gave me a peace through my dad being ill, an Aunt passing away and then two days later an uncle passing away. Years ago...I most likely would not have seen the beauty in some of these events, so I know our Lord is working in me as that's all I saw. Sadness...grief.....definitely, but also joy and beauty.

And then this is kind of funny......I hurt my foot by falling off of a very, very large metal box (OK...so it was 5 inches x 2 inches x 1 inch - but sounds better the other way) about 1 1/2 weeks ago. I've been hobbling around on this black and blue foot and it was getting better but was a little surprised that it was still so sore. Yesterday, I went to get on my knees to help the children pick up their toys and I just slightly rolled onto my toes (SERIOUSLY, ever so slightly) and I felt a POP. After I composed myself I pulled off my sock and had a mysterious bump on the top of my foot. Decided to get an x-ray and yes....broken bone on the top of my foot -- just HOW does one get a broken bone on the TOP? LOL Most likely I fractured it 1 1/2 weeks ago and that little roll just made the final break. They said to stay off of it until next week when I can see the doctor. I was a little disappointed that I have to wait to see the doctor...but they said the swelling needed to go down anyway before they can decide what to do.

So, missing my monthly Carmelite meeting -- I'm disappointed as I really look forward to seeing everyone and it has become very important when trying to persevere on this path. But I have great friends who will be taking notes for me and will fill me in as best they can after the meeting. Praying for them as I know they are for me!

Asking for prayers....

2010-04-09T05:54:00.000-07:00

On Good Friday, I was told that my Aunt, my mother's sister, had been taken to the hospital. My mom and I arrived at the hospital the exact time the doctor was delivering the news that she has stage 4 lung cancer, and it had also metastasized outside the lungs as well. This morning I've been told she's been given 12 - 72 hours.

This Sunday is Divine Mercy Sunday and I would so appreciate it if you could spare a Divine Mercy Chaplet for Gloria. I'm not positive what her beliefs are, but I know she hasn't been to a church for years and years. Thank you for any and all prayers....

One of the best means of assisting the dying is the one that Jesus revealed to St. Faustina and insisted that she use often — even continuously: The Divine Mercy Chaplet. Jesus said: "My daughter, encourage souls to say the chaplet which I have given to you. It pleases Me to grant everything they ask of Me by saying the chaplet. ... Write that when they say this chaplet in the presence of the dying, I will stand between My Father and the dying person, not as the just Judge but as the merciful Savior (Diary, 1541).

Earlier, Our Lord said to her, "At the hour of their death, I defend as My own glory every soul that will say this chaplet; or when others say it for a dying person, the indulgence is the same" (Diary, 811).

He is Risen!

2010-04-04T08:25:00.000-07:00

Our Redeemer has risen from the tomb; let us sing a hymn of praise to the Lord our God, alleluia!

I have missed you all! Lent, and especially Holy Week was definitely a time of "pruning" for me and I'm so thankful for a merciful Lord. I'm also very thankful for you, my friends and I can't wait to catch up on your blogs!

May God Bless You ALL Abundantly!!!!

Something about Mary!

2010-03-17T08:09:00.000-07:00

OK, so I started checking on my friends and just felt inspired to write ONE more little post, LOL! One of my favorite blogs (and fav cyber friend) is called the Beautiful Gate. I took a peek at her blog the other day -- Mary is her name and she always inspires me in my walk with Christ. Just as quickly I started thinking about the "Mary's" in my life and realized that every Mary I have been blessed to know has a very special place in my heart. From our Blessed Mother who truly saved me by leading me to her son and then again to my (hope to be) Carmelite family, a long time Mary friend from high school, another long time Mary friend who I consider probably my best friend because at the center we share our love of Christ, to my new cyber friend Mary who shares her heart bravely with her readers. Going to spend some time in prayer today thanking our Lord for the "Mary's" in my life...even those that aren't really named Mary:-)

Still here....still Lent!

2010-03-17T08:04:00.000-07:00

Missing all my blogging friends, but still taking this time to make this Lent the best ever and that includes stepping away a bit from the computer. Please know that you are all in my prayers!

The Gargoyle Code

2010-02-17T13:55:00.000-08:00

I'm always a day late it seems these days and should have started Fr. Longenecker's book yesterday...but no matter...catching up now and would like to say....BUY THE BOOK -- click the book on my sidebar...do it now as I received mine very quickly! (there is no monetary compensation to me for clicking from this site - just a quick way to get to Fr. Longenecker's website)

Lent.....

2010-02-16T15:06:00.000-08:00

Still a few hitches I cannot figure out on the blog but it seems to be mostly back to normal.

So Lent In a Tent...a post by Fr. Dwight Longenecker tells about a young boy, 10 year old Philip who spent Lent in a tent. As I'm preparing for Lent, young Philip keeps coming to mind. I hate to be uncomfortable and thinking of living in a tent for 40 days makes me break out in a cold sweat! And then I think of many here in this life that would be so grateful and happy and CONTENT, to be lucky enough to own a tent. So with Lent upon us, I'm going to accept Fr. Longenecker's challenge and sacrifice more...challenge myself to do more for Him..the one who has done all for me.

2010-02-06T07:51:00.000-08:00

My Blog got a bit messed up yesterday (colors and such) so I'll be working on it this weekend...hopefully, I can figure out what happened!!

Tebow's Super Bowl ad isn't intolerant....

2010-02-02T12:30:00.001-08:00

While the writer of this article and I disagree on abortion I did a big "YES" when I was reading it. Finally, someone who believes differently than I but finally sees that using the word "choice" really, really doesn't mean CHOICE to most. It's used because it makes it sound better than pro death.....and honestly....just so darn proud of someone (Tebow) who is willing to step out and so very nicely, politely, honestly, kindly and unapologetic go against the masses and share his belief. I don't care much for football (except for the snacks:-) - seriously - can't see where the darn ball is most of the time and I decide who I'm rooting for based on which uniform color I like best (unless it's the Oregon Ducks, of course)....but I'll be watching this year....

Sally Jenkins - Tebow's Super Bowl ad isn't intolerant; it's critics are.

Conversion of Saint Paul

2010-01-25T09:57:00.000-08:00

From the LOH this morning...

Homily by Saint John Chrysostom, bishop

"Each day he (St. Paul) aimed higher; each day he rose up with greater ardor and faced with new eagerness the dangers that threatened him. He summed up his attitude in the words: I forget what is behind me and push on to what lies ahead. When he saw death imminent, he bade others share his joy: Rejoice and be glad with me! And when danger, injustice and abuse threatened, he said: I am content with weakness, mistreatment and persecution. These he called the weapons of righteousness, thus telling us that he derived immense profit from them."

To have such zeal for the love of Christ. How can I, as I start my day, have such enthusiasm to embrace whatever He has planned for me? I struggle as the old me still clings to pride. I've asked Jesus to help me with this -- although I said it in a whisper just in case he decides to take me up on it and allow a boatload of trials designed to purify me:-) (SIGH) So thankful he never tires of me and my lukewarm ways.

Joy in the midst of suffering....

2010-01-20T08:27:00.000-08:00

Today is one of those days...really like any other, that is full of joys and sorrows, blessings and struggles, wonder and confusion.

The sorrow of losing a child...not mine....but a young women my youngest daughters age (21) who is also a mother to a young child. I remember her mother who so inspired me as a young mom. One time in church they were sitting across from us....a family of five or so at that time (they have six children I believe). The children being so good, waiting patiently, the mom kneeling, and I could see her lips moving as she was reciting prayers, most likely the Rosary. That vision has always stayed with me as a source of inspiration to be a good mother to my children by example. This family has been given many challenges....and now another one. I pray to our Heavenly Father, our Blessed Mother and Good St. Anne to shower blessings, comfort and grace on this family to endure this newest trial. And as trials always do....has encouraged me to remember to continue to pray for my children, and to call and tell them how much I love them.

And the joy.....today I celebrate 31 years of marriage with a man I am so proud to call my husband. God blessed me the day he introduced us and I thank him for this wonderful gift - especially since we only knew each other for 3 weeks before we got engaged but that's another story for another time. God knew what he was doing even if we were young and didn't know it!:-)

Favorite Friday

2010-01-15T13:23:00.001-08:00

I'm working on detachment of things....I really am....but there is just something about Mary:-) I wanted to share one of my favorite statues that my husband bought me for Christmas. Now, mind you, he didn't know he bought it for me until I showed it to him but oh, he was so proud of himself for choosing something so perfect (haha)! Anyway, I'm sure we all have favorite images of Our Blessed Mother and Our Lady Seat of Wisdom, holding baby Jesus so tenderly in her arms is one of mine (the other, The Sistine Madonna). I love this statue because it is all white....so fitting for our tender Mother.

"The last and greatest means of all, the most wonderful of all secrets for obtaining and keeping of Divine Wisdom, a tender and true devotion to the Blessed Mary."

~St. Louis de Montfort~

Haiti, Pat Robertson and Witchcraft

2010-01-15T08:11:00.000-08:00

As I'm clearly not a great writer I'd like to point you to Fr. Longenecker's article with a bit of clarification on some of the facts.

Continued prayers for Haiti, and please donate if you can.

Catholic Relief Services

The Catholicism Project - NEW TRAILER

2010-01-08T18:27:00.001-08:00

I really don't know much about this but saw it on a blog called Daily Grace (http://dailygrace001.blogspot.com/) and it just made me smile!

Beautiful St. Anne Chaplet

2010-01-08T11:02:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share a beautiful St. Anne Chaplet I received from my internet friend Anne, Under Her Starry Mantle and Tota Pulchra Beads. She is so creative and uses the most beautiful combinations of colors, beads, texture, etc. Stop over and take a look at her beautiful jewelry, rosaries and chaplets.

A couple of my furry friends

2010-01-02T10:03:00.000-08:00

I plan to broaden this blog a bit this year. My goal was to share my journey as a wife, mother, and Secular Carmelite (still in formation). I have shared some of this Carmelite way but as I have grown this path is not separate from my"other" life but very much becomes my life. Oh, I'm not good with words at all so I probably just sound cofusing. Those that have/are taking this walk understand what I mean. With that said, my plan is to share a little more of my daily (more likely weekly) life with all it's glorious twists and turns!

And again, my new internet friend, Robin at All Things Heart and Home, is starting a 365 day project where she takes a picture each day. I thought it would be a great idea (I promise, Robin, to not borow all your ideas!) -- I most likely will not share these picts. daily because I don't blog each day but am planning to take them and use them in some way - which just hasn't come to me yet! LOL

January 1 picture above - I could have taken many pictures yesterday. My oldest daughter and family came over to watch the big Duck game (boo hoo by the way). We ate so much junk f0od (drowning our sorrows) that I was almost comotose. But my husband took a picture of two of my favorite furry children. Seldom are they THIS close - Max, my ragdoll cat (love him dearly but really, don't pay for a pet...adopt one that is in need) has lately been "borrowing" Luna's dog bed. Luna, my toy poodle who I adopted from a rescue decided there was plenty of room for her too and was not to be ousted from HER bed!

My "Theme" for 2010

2010-01-02T09:11:00.001-08:00

I've known my theme for some time.....but struggled with how to express it...how to word it. I read this yesterday as it was sent through a list I am on and the words were there for me...

Sr. Carmela of the Holy Spirit OCD to Jesus:

“I think of this new year as a white page given to me by Your Father, on which He will write, day by day, whatever His divine good pleasure has planned. I shall now write at the top of the page, with complete confidence: Lord, do with me what You will, and at the bottom I already write my Amen to all the proposals of Your divine will. Yes Lord, yes to all the joys, the sorrows, the graces, the hardships prepared for me, which You will reveal to me day by day. Grant that my Amen my be the Paschal Amen, always followed by the Alleluia, uttered wholeheartedly, in the joy of a complete gift. Give me Your love and Your grace, and I shall be rich enough.”

Divine Intimacy page 108 (HIGHLY recommend this book)

Sometimes I struggle, struggle against the blessings and grace our Lord wants to give me because it is usually combined with some struggle. I'm a wimp...plain and simple. So preseverance is my stance, combined with a yes to all He chooses to prepare for me.

Welcome 2010!!

2010-01-01T09:58:00.000-08:00

What is your "theme" this year?

2009-12-31T08:10:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I read a post, Looking Back ~ Looking Forward, by Robin at All Things Heart and Home where she shared that each year she asks God for a theme for the coming year. And as expected, or unexpected:-) the Lord reveals lessons in magnificent, painful, glorious, tough ways....blessings full of eternal joy. I thought this was a wonderful idea and hope to hear the "theme" God has planned for me as well!

If you have a theme you think Our Lord is asking of you, pop on over and share it with Robin!

Holy Cards

2009-12-30T12:38:00.000-08:00

If you have not seen this blog...

Holy Cards For Your Inspiration...please do so. Each day a new card is shared....I love the vintage ones! This one (today) is just gorgeous --- Mary, angels, baby Jesus and little lamb just really spoke to my heart.

Monday, Monday..

2009-12-28T14:56:00.000-08:00

I always sort of dread the week after Christmas. I feel kind of....well....sick....after days and days of baking and eating yummy things with way too much sugar. The stress of hosting family for the holidays always tends to encourage my consumption of the self-medicating substance. Although if you put a bowl of some sort of crunchy, salty combination in front of me it can also soothe my frazzled nerves. Oh who am I kidding....many times I've indulged in the sweet only to then find myself digging for something salty to "balance" it out, LOL!

So today is the day when I go cold turkey and prepare myself for the inevitable withdrawal. When I don't eat sugar...I don't want it...am fine without it. A little chocolate here and there I can deal with but after the holiday sugar blitz it is a little harder to get it under control:-)

And then there are the decorations! Yesterday, hubby asked if I wanted to start putting things away. I feel like I just barely got done getting the house ready so decided to wait another day....maybe tomorrow even:-)

Hmmmm....as I sit here looking at all the decorations that must now be put away I'm feeling a little........anxious.........and those little round cookies covered in powdered sugar are really yummy with a cup of coffee......

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T08:25:00.000-08:00

Wishing you, my friends and family, a very Merry Christmas and abundant Blessings this coming New Year!

Hearing on the eve of Obama's trip to China

2009-11-19T08:36:00.001-08:00

I can't even find words to convey how this hurts my heart.....I have one such beautiful child from China in my care and am so thankful for the brave woman who gave her life....

A Humanitarian Disaster

Meditation Book + Divine Intimacy Calendar Schedule

2009-11-17T18:01:00.000-08:00

Surfing around yesterday I found a site to the OCDS Proper of the Liturgy of the Hours as well as a "Divine Intimacy" reading schedule for 2009/2010.

OCDS Proper of the Liturgy of the Hours

Divine Intimacy reading schedule for 2009/2010

The cutest turkey EVER!

2009-11-05T14:23:00.000-08:00

This little guy just makes my heart happy! (Hope Mom and Dad don't mind I copied a picture...ssshhhh)

Fragrance from Alabaster

2009-11-05T13:45:00.000-08:00

The Holy Spirit is the Sanctifier. It is His mission to purify and to elevate the soul that it may be joined to Him in the closest union. Whatever may be our weakness, our faults, or imperfections, the power of the Holy Spirit is unchanging. If we yield ourselves to His influence, like the apostles we too shall be recreated, and strong in His love we shall run with joy the ways of perfection. ~~ Mother Aloysius of Concord Carmel~~~

All Saints Day

2009-11-01T08:18:00.000-08:00

I love this image...

A wonderful day in honor of are Saints!

The Discalced Carmelite Students in Rome...

2009-10-13T11:02:00.000-07:00

The Discalced Carmelite Theology Students in Rome.

Click the picture to be taken to their blog...

The Pioneer Woman Cooks!

2009-10-08T20:24:00.000-07:00

Oh I'm definitely getting this.....because.....well.....because she makes me want to cook yummy looking food but also because she makes me laugh!

The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Recipes from an Accidental Country Girl

Novena to St. Teresa of Avila

2009-10-07T08:22:00.000-07:00

I'm a day late in posting.....day one was yesterday.....sorry!

Novena to St. Teresa of Avila

Pray especially beginning on 6 October and ending on 14 October, the eve of the Feast of St. Teresa. This Novena was written by St. Alphonsus of Liguori.

First Day:

O most amiable Lord Jesus Christ! We thank Thee for the great gift of faith and of devotion to the Holy Sacrament, which Thou didst grant to Thy beloved Teresa; we pray Thee, by Thy merits and by those of Thy faithful spouse, to grant us the gift of a lively faith, and of a fervent devotion toward the most Holy Sacrament of the altar; where Thou, O infinite Majesty! hast obliged Thyself to abide with us even to the end of the world, and wherein Thou didst so lovingly give Thy whole Self to us.

Say one Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory be.

V. St. Teresa, pray for us:

R. That we may become worthy of the promises of Jesus Christ.

Let us pray: Graciously hear us, O God of our salvation! that as we rejoice in the commemoration of the blessed virgin Teresa, so we may be nourished by her heavenly doctrine, and draw from thence the fervour of a tender devotion; through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God for ever and ever. Amen.

Second Day:

O most merciful Lord Jesus Christ! we thank Thee for the great gift of hope which Thou didst grant to Thy beloved Teresa; we pray Thee, by Thy merits, and by those of Thy holy spouse, to give us a great confidence in Thy goodness, by reason of Thy Precious Blood, which Thou hast shed to its last drop for our salvation.

Say one Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory be.

V. St. Teresa, pray for us:

R. That we may become worthy of the promises of Jesus Christ.

Our Lady Of The Rosary

2009-10-07T08:06:00.000-07:00

Our Lady Of The Rosary

Memorial

October 7

Quotes from Brother Lawrence...

2009-09-28T14:23:00.000-07:00

“We do not always have to be in church to be
with God. We can make of our hearts an oratory
where we can withdraw from time to
time to converse with God. Everyone is capable
of these intimate conversations with God,
some more, some less.”

Prayers needed....

2009-09-28T09:28:00.000-07:00

For my daughter Annie......please storm heaven for her! I wish I could share but I don't even know where to begin.

Novena to St. Therese begins today

2009-09-22T08:57:00.000-07:00

Today begins the Novena, ending on September 30 which is also a fast day for OCDS members. You can get the Novena here...

Little Flower Novena

Big Miracles and Tiny Shoes

2009-09-21T14:19:00.000-07:00

I have a very wonderful friend, filled with the Love of Christ who shared something today and it was just what I needed to hear!

Mary said..

"My ministry is not in performing big miracles. My ministry is in tying small shoes."

Thank you, Mary, for reminding me of the important job we do, and that we are Christ's hands when we are tying those small shoes and wiping those runny noses! God truly blessed me when he blessed our friendship.

EWTN Honors Padre Pio, September 26

2009-09-18T13:35:00.000-07:00

Watch Saturday, September 26, 8PM Eastern Time (set those DVR's)

EWTN Honors Padre Pio

Mary Day By Day

2009-09-18T08:07:00.000-07:00

Now you are light in the Lord, Walk as children of light, for light produces all goodness and justice and truth.

~~~Eph 5:8-9

Reflection: For those who believe in our Lord Jesus Christ, for those who believe in the Church, behold the Mother: Mary!

Prayer: O Mary, you give light to everything in our lives. Enlighten my mind and open my heart so that I may learn and carry out the things that are pleasing to your Divine Son.

Just For Today, Ronald Knox

2009-09-11T09:48:00.001-07:00

I bought a new book (sigh -- I really need to get a handle on this addiction, LOL) and wanted to recommend it to my friends. It's called Just for Today, Introduced by Ronald Knox. It is a book of daily readings (two readings), one from St. Therese of Lisieux and one from The Imitation of Christ and it blends the two together.

From The Right Reverend Monsignor Ronald Knox...

"The compiler of this anthology has been happily inspired to sit between two treasure chests, dealing out to us a jewel first from this then from that, like matched pearls."

If interested just click on the book cover...

Still recovering....

2009-08-28T14:05:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't posted much lately but I've been sick for weeks now and have found out I have pneumonia. There were a couple of days where I thought I was on the road to recovery but then it hit harder -- such is life!

My youngest daughter is moving back home for a few months this weekend so I could use a few prayers -- we tend to have a stress filled relationship when she lives with us!:-)

Have a wonderful weekend!

An opportunity to go on a pilgrimage..

2009-08-24T10:05:00.001-07:00

In April my Priest and our Archbishop are going to Assisi, the Holy House of Mary in Loreto, the shrine of Padre Pio in San Giovanni Rotondo, the shrine of St. Nicholas in Bari, the Benedictine monastery of Montecassino, and a scheduled Papal Audience at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

This has been a dream of mine and oh how I want to go! Please pray for me!!!

St. Pio Daily

2009-08-09T12:47:00.000-07:00

From Air Maria, August Theme: Spiritual Aridity

“You will greatly encounter the pleasure of God, and mine as well, by not omitting your spiritual exercises on account of the aridity and interior languor that often returns to you; because not wanting to serve God and love Him save for His pleasure and love alone, and being more pleasing to Him, the service that we render Him amidst the pains of aridity, rather than those we render Him amidst the sweetness, we must likewise receive them [these pains of aridity] willingly, at least with our upper will. And even though, according to our pleasure and our self love, the gentleness and tenderness seems sweeter to us, aridity, according to the pleasure of God, is more useful, as dry food is more useful for those with dropsy, rather than moist food, even though the latter always tastes better than the former.”

Altar Serving 101

2009-08-01T06:55:00.001-07:00

Discaled Carmelite Friars
www.fatheradam.blogspot.com

I've had the pleasure of hearing Father Robert speak at one of our monthly Carmelite meetings. I remember everyone at my table got out their paper and pens to take notes and after about...oh.....a minute.....we all just stopped as we didn't want to miss a single thing he was sharing. When he was done we all just thought "wow" as we were truly blessed..........thank you Heavenly Father for all our Priests and please bless them.

Obama and Body Language

2009-07-31T13:36:00.000-07:00

A very telling article here at American Thinker......

"That's why I think this image will have genuine resonance. It captures something that older Americans in particular can relate to. The President presses ahead with a program that will tell them to take painkillers instead of getting that artificial hip."

Fragrance from Alabaster

2009-07-27T18:43:00.000-07:00

To be always kind in thought, word and deed, one must practice real mortification, for one must constantly repress the natural which is in us all and which is quick to see the fault in another.

We must practice that faith which sees beneath the surface, recognizing the divine in every soul; we must realize that what is said to another is directed to our Lord, Who associates Himself with each one so closely as to be one with her.

The virtues of faith and love are within the reach of all of us. They are the two wings by which we can fly to God on countless occasions, and these occasions are provided by our Lord Himself just to have us do so.

In using these happenings, we shall find countless opportunities for overcoming our natural self, so given to irritation when things contradict our will, and so ready to think that annoying circumstances justify our showing annoyance. We forget that the occasions do not make us frail but they show what we are.

It is only the light of faith that can enable us to see through the various circumstances we meet with and see in them God and His permissive Will. To one under the influence of our Lord's Spirit instead of her own, these little trials show her our Lord asking for love; and if nature is tempted to complain, the soul that loves is not depressed or discouraged. Rather in this very reaction it sees its weakness, a tendency to watch; and the lover blesses God for the light thus given to know what she must work at, what she must overcome, if she would be pleasing to Him.

~~Mother Aloysius of Concord Carmel~~

St. Pio Daily - Battles

2009-07-23T08:54:00.000-07:00

"How can you not rejoice in seeing yourself engaged in so many battles, knowing that for every victory you carry off, a degree of glory corresponds?”
~~St. Pio~~

Sometimes it is so difficult to rejoice in and for the battle. Holy Spirit...give me the perseverance and courage in this struggle.

Discover the presence of God - have a prayer life

2009-07-22T10:20:00.000-07:00

Linking to a post by an OCD sister at louange de sa galoire....

Discover the prsence of God - have a prayer life.

Is aborted fetal DNA in our children's vaccines?

2009-07-22T08:50:00.001-07:00

My mouth is open...is this true? I have never heard this! Regardless of whether or not this is linked to Autism...this just shouldn't be happening!

Is Aborted Fetal DNA in Vaccines Linked to Autism

Thank you, Gretchen for sharing the article.

The End of the Present World

2009-07-20T08:24:00.000-07:00

I have had this book....The End of the Present World on my "to read" list for awhile so imagine my surprise while reading the preface that Father Donald Kinney, a Carmelite Priest had a copy of this book (after searching for seven years) written in the original French language which was used to translate into english. Many in my OCDS community know him well and talk of him very fondly. I've met him a few times and was excited to see his name in this book!

"Reading this book was one of the greatest graces of my life."
~~St. Therese of Lisieux~~

Feeling very blessed!

2009-07-17T10:23:00.000-07:00

Just sharing two of my favorite faces....this is my oldest daughter and my favorite grandson (who was VERY HOT and tired). I can say he's my favorite because...well....he's the only grandchild I have at the moment! But you have to admit...he's soooooooo cute!

Happy Feast Day of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel

2009-07-16T07:36:00.000-07:00

I'm running late but just had to take a moment to say I will remember you all in my prayers today! God Bless!

Practice of the Presence of God

2009-07-15T06:29:00.000-07:00

I read this post Faith and Reason at louange de sa gloire and the reference made to the Carmelite ideal of living in the presence of God at all times is timely as I just read the below excerpt from one of Father Bruno Cocuzzi, OCD homilies.

"There is an exercise of soul, closely akin to Mental Prayer, which is compatible with the faithful fulfillment of our daily duties and which renders us receptive to the influence of the Holy Spirit. It is the practice of the Presence of God. Since we have likened Mental Prayer to the spontaneous, informal, loving encounter of two well-beloved spouses, we can compare the practice of the Presence of God to the activity of mind and heart of a young housewife as she goes about her work in the home while her husband is away during the day.

Because she lives in his house and is entrusted with the care of it, and especially because she is responsible for the care of the children, a young housewife is keenly aware of her estate, that is, of her relationship to her spouse. He is indirectly present to her because of her immediate concern with persons and things that have a direct or indirect bearing upon him. He is present to her memory because she can’t help thinking of how he looks, of the sound of his voice, of his touch, etc. He is present to her intellect when she adverts to certain facts concerning him: he is so handsome; he is so kind and affectionate toward the children; he is such a hard, unselfish worker. Then, when the nature of her work absorbs her mind completely, when she cannot be mindful of him, she keeps him present to her will by applying herself to the task at hand with diligence for love of him. It is the last named means which can always be practiced, and which escapes the ability of no one.

The practice of the Presence of God, then, is the deliberate effort to keep God and related things present to our faculties of mind and heart. First of all it requires that we remind ourselves at stated times during the day that we are the children of God, co-heirs with Jesus Christ of the Kingdom of Heaven. We have to keep in mind that, even though we may own things outright, that we are stewards in God’s household. In particular, we have to get into the habit of seeing all persons as children of God for whose salvation and spiritual welfare we are to some degree responsible. We keep in the presence of God by remembering what we have read or heard concerning Him, by recalling images and incidents taken from the Gospels. Having sacred images in the home is a great help in this regard. We keep God present, too, by means of our intellect, when we make acts of Faith: God loves me; Jesus died for me, gave me Himself as my spiritual sustenance, gave me His own Mother; the Cross is necessary; a heavy Cross is a proof of signal favor, etc. And when the nature of our work makes this kind of mental activity impossible, we keep God present in our hearts by doing all things for love of Him. It is the minimum, but it is essential."

Have a blessed day!

Prayers for your children...

2009-07-14T07:43:00.000-07:00

I've posted this before and this is really a reminder to myself to always pray for my children (you can replace "daughters" with children or sons).

Holy Mary, mother of God and mother of all the faithful, I place my daughters under your motherly protection. To you I completely consecrate them, body and soul. Take them under your care and keep them always. Guard them and keep their hearts pure, their thoughts ever holy and directed to God and the things of God. Protect them always throughout life - in their joys and sorrows, in successes and failures, in dealings with others. Always and in all things be a true mother to them, Mary, and preserve them. I commend them entirely to you. Remember, Mother Mary, that through this act of consecration they become in a special way your children as well as mine; guard them and keep them as your very own. Amen.

Saint Teresa of the Andes

2009-07-13T07:54:00.000-07:00

One of my favorites!

St. Teresa of the Andes

Thoughts from Mother Aloysius of Concord Carmel

2009-07-13T07:41:00.000-07:00

"Try to see our Lord working out His plan for your holiness through the vexations and annoyances you meet with. Give yourself sweetly and generously to their purifying action; thus His transforming love can make you His living image; His Father will see in you another Jesus seeking only His glory. "

~~Fragrance from Alabaster~~

Novena to our Lady of Mt. Carmel (Second Day)

2009-07-08T09:59:00.000-07:00

Novena to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel

2009-07-06T10:40:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow begins the Novena to Our Lady Of Mt. Carmel. O Star of the Sea, please pray for us!

First Day (7 July)O Beautiful Flower of Carmel, most fruitful vine, splendor of heaven, holyand singular, who brought forth the Son of God, still ever remaining a pure virgin, assist us in our necessity! O Star of the Sea, help and protect us! Show us that you are our Mother! (pause and mention petitions)

Recite: Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be

Our Lady of Mount Carmel, pray for us.

Good St. Anne

2009-07-02T11:15:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that I'm just learning about St. Anne, the beloved Mother of our Lady and Grandmother of Our Lord. Why I have never read or heard much about her is a mystery (to me anyway) but I'm so glad to have been introduced to her. How fitting that I discovered my own Annie's birthday to be the same as St. Anne's Feast day, July 26.

I want to thank Anne at Under Her Starry Mantle to be instrumental in sharing this devotion. AND a heart full of gratitude for her gift of the little booklet called Good St. Anne as well as a bottle of St. Anne Holy Oil that she shared with me.

Please visit her blog and enjoy her Tuesdays with St. Anne.

Also, St. Anne devotions starting July 1st at Evening Devotions.

St. John of the Cross - Sayings of Light and Love

2009-07-02T06:36:00.001-07:00

I would do well these days to remember this one....

4. It is better to be burdened and in company with the strong than to be unburdened and with the weak. When you are burdened you are close to God, your strength, who abides with the afflicted. When you are relieved of the burden you are close to yourself, your own weakness; for virtue and strength of soul grow and are confirmed in the trials of patience.

And here is another one at Carmelitemom.

Blessings, Julia

A Novena

2009-06-30T13:41:00.000-07:00

On July 10 our wonderful Pope Benedict XVI will be meeting with President Barack Obama. Please join me tomorrow, July 1, as I begin praying a Novena Rosary(nine days) for the conversion of President Obama's heart. I'll be the first to admit my ignorance when it comes to political matters.....but I know what I know.....and I know how important this meeting is going to be. Maybe even a little fasting the day before, July 9, couldn't hurt?

~~God Bless~~

May Feelings II

2009-05-28T18:16:00.001-07:00

I love this!

Jon and Kate plus 8

2009-05-27T14:30:00.001-07:00

OK, I know this is sooooo silly and really, none of my business...but this just breaks my heart. I hope they get some counseling because those precious children need their parents. I hope they can work it all out and find their way back to each other.

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T07:19:00.000-07:00

Wishing all of my dear friends a most wonderful Mother's Day!

God Bless!

The Sign Of The Mustard Seed

2009-05-05T14:42:00.001-07:00

I just had to link to this post at The Sign Of The Mustard Seed...I'm a terrible writer and just can't seem to say what I want to say and how I want to say it. Soooooo.....linking to my friend's blog who also linked to a blog, LOL. Hey, at least this info is getting around!

Divine Intimacy

2009-03-13T08:52:00.000-07:00

Please visit Praying For Grace as she has posted today's meditation from one of my favorite books Divine Intimacy.

As you can see I don't post much during Lent, but want everyone to know I am keeping you in prayer.

God Bless!

Company Muffins

2009-01-29T09:26:00.001-08:00

I love these muffins.....they remind me of carrot cake...good even without the yummy cream cheese frosting! LOL

1 c. all-purpose flour
1 c. oat bran
2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 c. brown sugar
1 1/2 c. finely shredded carrots
2 lg. tart apples, peeled, cored and shredded
1/2 c. raisins (optional)
1 c. chopped pecans
1/4 c. vegetable oil
1/2 c. skim milk
2 eggs, slightly beaten (or use egg substitute, or 4 egg whites)
1 tsp. vanilla

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Combine flour, oat bran, baking soda, baking powder, salt and cinnamon in a large bowl. Stir in sugar. Add carrots, apples, raisins and nuts. Stir well. Make a well in the center. Add oil, milk, eggs and vanilla. Stir just until moistened. Use a 1/4 cup measure to scoop muffin batter into greased tins. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until nicely browned. Makes 18 muffins.

Thankful for my husband

2009-01-27T09:15:00.000-08:00

If there is a silver lining to back surgery it's that my husband has been home for the last couple of weeks and has a few more for recovery. When I wake up he has tended to the woodstove and the coffee is made (usually my jobs). Such a nice treat on these cold, cold mornings! As I write this I'm watching big fluffy, soft snowflakes fall. What is it about snow that just calms one's soul?

While I don't advertise for anyone I received an email this morning from AllCatholicBooks.com and they have two of my favorite things on sale....Divine Intimacy and a Leather set of Liturgy Of The Hours. I also have this 2009 Daily Planner. Just thought I would pass it along!

Happy Anniversary!

2009-01-20T17:57:00.000-08:00

Today my husband and I have been married for 30 years! 30 YEARS! And we look forward to the next 30!

Devotion to Mary

2009-01-18T07:11:00.000-08:00

As a Secular Carmelite, each day we are to honor Mary in some way, rosary, prayers, etc. I found this prayer on the Padre Pio Calendar website and wanted to share....

Holy Virgin Mary, Mother of God and my Mother,
Daughter of the Eternal Father, pray that we recognize our unity as children of the One Father.
Mother of the Only-Begotten Son, pray that we accept each other as sisters and brothers in the same Jesus.
Spouse of the Life-Giving Holy Spirit, pray that we be open to the prompting of the Holy Spirit, leading us to the fullness of life.
Mary, Virgin Made Church, Mother of the Mystical Body of Christ, First Tabernacle, First Monstrance, be with us in life’s journey, and help us see and follow Jesus. Amen.

Do Not Lose Hope In The Face Of Threatening Clouds

2009-01-16T07:27:00.000-08:00

Pope Benedict's address to the General Expectorate can pertain to us as well as we go about our duties....loved this part...

"If undertaken with love", he added, "such service becomes prayer, a prayer even more welcome to God when your work is thankless, monotonous and tiring, especially during the night and in bad weather. It is by doing their duty well", he concluded, "that each of the baptised achieves his or her vocation of sanctity".

Here is the whole address..

"Do Not Lose Hope In The Face Of Threatening Clouds"

Many prayers needed

2009-01-12T14:36:00.000-08:00

I wish I had a better picture on my computer of this special boy. Flash, my husband's best buddy had to be put down today. It's all rather sudden....he collapsed on Saturday and many tests later we have learned that his heart was beyond repair. We started medication but it was pretty evident that it was not going to do what we had hoped. Goodbye buddy....you were such a sweet boy.

And in the midst of all this, my husband will be having back surgery tomorrow morning (just found out a few moments ago) - a lot to process in such a short time.

Trying to embrace my crosses today.........

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T08:30:00.001-08:00

Grandma's little guy!

2008-12-30T12:05:00.000-08:00

Ok, so sorry about this big picture of me, but wanted to share my pride and joy! He is ALWAYS smiling!

The Loretta Young Show

2008-12-21T16:00:00.000-08:00

A good, clean show on a very snowy day!

LORETTA YOUNG SHOW 3 & 2 PLEASE 30 mins Loretta Young portrays, “Sister Ann”, a nun who brightens the lives of patients in a Catholic hospital at Christmastime.
Sun 12/21/08 6:30 PM ET & 3:30 PM PT
Tue 12/23/08 11:00 AM ET & 8 AM PT
Fri 12/26/08 2:30 AM ET & (Thu) 11:30 PM PT
Sat 12/27/08 2:30 PM ET & 11:30 AM PT

Catholic Carnival is up!

2008-12-17T05:05:00.000-08:00

Catholic Carnival 203: Waiting In Joyful Hope

Salve Regina: Hail Holy Queen in Latin

2008-12-12T11:26:00.001-08:00

We sing this at the end of our monthly Carmelite meeting - still trying to learn it!

Liturgy Of The Hours

2008-12-04T06:01:00.002-08:00

While reciting the Intercessions of the Morning Prayer this jumped out at me...

~~You are nearer to us than we to ourselves~~

Just ponder that one a moment! Have a wonderful day!

First Sunday of Advent and Lectio Divina

2008-11-30T08:42:00.000-08:00

First Sunday of Advent, Nov. 30, 2008, Lectio Divina

We must speak to and see God amidst the thunder and the hurricane; we must see him in the bush, amidst the fire and thorns.
~~St. Pio~~

A Desire To Make Rosaries

2008-11-26T08:27:00.000-08:00

I have, for many, many years had a desire to make Rosaries. I have procrastinated because I just didn't know where to begin. If anyone has a great tutorial or can help me get started I would so appreciate the help!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-26T08:25:00.000-08:00

I have so much to be thankful for as my father finally comes home from his surgery two weeks ago. It has been a long haul for him but he is now doing very well....Praise God.

Wishing all of my friends and family a very blessed Thanksgiving Day!

Lectio Divina for Sunday November 23

2008-11-23T06:23:00.000-08:00

Lectio Divina

Bishop prays for Obama's Conversion of Heart

2008-11-18T08:12:00.000-08:00

I'm never quite sure how much of an article is proper to post but I thought this was important enough to share...

EWTN

Bishop Prays for Obama’s Conversion, Calls on Catholics to Integrate Faith and Politics

FARGO, North Dakota, NOV. 17, 2008 (Zenit.org).- The next months will require tireless work from Catholics in order to preserve the fundamental right to life, and from priests to make Church teaching known, says a U.S. prelate.

Bishop Samuel Aquila of Fargo affirmed this in a column written for the November issue of New Earth, his diocesan newspaper.

He congratulated president-elect Barack Obama, and assured him of prayers for "the conversion of his heart and mind to recognize the dignity of human life from the moment of conception until natural death and the truth that no government has the right to legalize abortion."

Observing Obama's voting record and his public support of the Freedom of Choice Act, the prelate asserted that the president-elect opposes the position of the Catholic Church. He added: "On a purely political level, he even disagrees with the majority of Americans, who at least want some limits on abortion.

"The Church, and most especially bishops and priests, will need to make the teaching of the Church known to every Catholic."

Clear teaching

Bishop Aquila wrote about letters he received expressing a desire for more outspoken and clear teaching on abortion. He stated, "Catholics need to promote the Gospel of Life and understand, as Pope Benedict XVI and his predecessors have made definitive and clear, that the question of the moral legality of abortion is non-negotiable. It is always and everywhere wrong, and this moral truth must be enshrined in law in every civil society."

He addressed the misunderstandings that he encountered regarding a Catholic's role faced to abortion. "Abortion is an intrinsic evil," he explained, "which means that in no circumstance is it permitted nor may it ever be supported, even as a means to a good end."

The prelate reiterated the message of other U.S. bishops, on the central and primary importance of the issue of human life among the many other political issues to be weighed in the balance.

Faith in politics

The bishop addressed the misunderstanding about the relationship between the Church and the state, and more particularly, how each Catholic is called to live his faith in daily life and political decisions. He lamented the removal of "religious and moral values from the public square," observing that "some Catholics in the separation of their faith from decisions in the political order abandon God and embrace secular atheism."

"Abandoning the truth," he continued, "is directly opposed both to our ideals as Christians and to the founding principles of our country as seen in the Declaration of Independence which acknowledges the ‘laws of nature's God' and ‘the Creator.'"

The prelate quoted from the nation's first president, George Washington: "Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports."

Based in these ideals of the founding fathers, as well as the teachings of the Church, Bishop Aquila called on Catholics to live out their faith: "Being faithful to the call and mission given to us by God can never be limited to Sunday worship, but requires the surrender of our complete and entire lives.

"If we are faithful Catholics, everything we do will be influenced by our relationship with God, his truth, his love and his constant inspiration. If we withhold the beauty and truths about human life from our nation's laws, we diminish our society."

Blessed Françoise d’Amboise

2008-11-17T08:39:00.000-08:00

You have various afflictions which constitute your cross. Bear them willingly to the very end, when you will finally yield your soul to God. Give Him praise and thanks for calling you to His service. Scorn no-one, for it is God’s will that you love each one of your neighbors as you do those of your own community. Strive to curb all unruly instincts within you. To this end try one remedy today and another tomorrow, so that gradually you will subdue your unruly impulses, and when the Lord sees your good will and your perseverance, He will give you the support of His grace, enabling you to sustain to the end the burdens of religious life. Through His love nothing will be too difficult for you to bear.”

Obama: Fear and The Security Force

2008-11-16T05:38:00.000-08:00

For your discernment......

Obama: Fear and The Security Force

Prayers for my Dad

2008-11-12T06:53:00.000-08:00

My father had hip surgery yesterday. Everything seemed to go fine but he developed some complications late last night and was moved to Intensive Care. I would so appreciate prayers for him...his name is Richard. Thank you.