A 38 Week Belly Peek and A Last Minute List of Mother's Day Gift Ideas

Just a couple of days ago, I sent out an SOS on Facebook to any of my readers who would be willing to share with me their favorite tips on how to overcome the maternity blahs in the final stretch of pregnancy. Next to getting a pedicure and perking up what's left of my shrunken wardrobe with pretty earrings and some new lipstick, my favorite tip was going on a date with Steve.

I wish I could report that he is feeling top-notch, but unfortunately, he's hit another rough patch, so if you could keep those prayers coming, we would both be eternally grateful!  Knowing that his Lyme/mold symptoms are pretty ramped up, I hesitated to even suggest that we get away for an evening, but I'm glad I did, because he was totally on board.

He even agreed to snap a couple of pics of me and baby before we left, since I haven't taken much time to document this pregnancy:

I'm so thankful for maxi skirts and dresses right now, because pants are just evil, and most of my tops have mysteriously shrunk at least a size (or two).  So weird, because I'm sure it's not the pan of Paleo Almond Joy bars that I snarfed down last week.

I'm also hoping that the two dresses I can still squeeze into will not only help me feel more put together, but will also ramp up the grace and coordination factor a bit.  Last week I knocked over three saint statues and a box of rosaries while browsing at my favorite Catholic bookstore, and of course that all happened after giving the boys the don't touch anything, because if you break it we have to pay for it blah, blah, blah speech.

Super. Duper.

I was going to suggest that management consult some pregnant women the next time they consider product layout and floor design, but that might have been a bit much given the fact that, thanks to my rotundness, St. Patrick just lost his shamrock. I just hope that the Franklin I spent on all of the First Communion and Confirmation gifts was enough to make up for my belly blunder.

Anyway, despite the public humiliations, uncontrollable swelling and crazy vein action this baby is cranking up, just knowing that he or she will soon be outside my womb and inside my arms is such a wonderful consolation.

The boys are also getting very excited. It's fun to hear them chat about how cute he/she will be with their tiny toes and sweet smelling skin. Listening to them express with so much joy their great enthusiasm over being blessed with another sibling, turns my fears and anxiety into deep gratitude for the great privilege of carrying another life with me!

Motherhood is indeed a most precious gift!

Speaking of motherhood and gifts, Mother's day is just one week away! If you still haven't found something special for the beautiful mama(s) you may be shopping for, I'd love to help you:

1. A Beautiful Potted Plant

Instead of a bouquet that will only last a few days, give her something that will last all summer! Local, family-owned greenhouses have the best selection of flower baskets and potted plants. Or, put a little extra love into it, and design one for her yourself! 

2.  A Frame Worthy Quote

I love all of the beautiful work my friend, Katrina, offers on her Etsy Shoppe, Hatch Prints.  Put one of her works of art in a pretty frame, and it makes a truly lovely gift.

3.  A Pretty Bottle of Wine

This is your excuse to buy a bottle based on the label alone.  When I spotted this one, I couldn't resist!  Write a toast to your special mom, and attach it to the bottle, for an extra nice touch.

4.  My Saint My Hero Accessories

I'm really loving so many of the pieces from this shoppe.  You'll be sure to find a perfect gift for the spiritual mom here.

5.  Write Her a Letter (On Pretty Paper)

Hand written notes are a lost treasure and, though simple, can make the most memorable gifts.  My sister has sent me a variety of stationary from Rifle Paper Co., and it is all truly beautiful.  They also offer many other gifts such as phone cases, calendars, and personal planners.

6.  Perfectly Posh 

You absolutely cannot go wrong with a gift that pampers.  My super-fun and sassy friend, Tara just introduced me to a new line of products called Perfectly Posh. When she told me they are "natural" and made in the U.S.A., I was hooked! You can check out all of their fabulous products here.

HAPPY SHOPPING!!

Five Days Better Late Than Never - Husband Family Highlights of 2015

I am in complete denial that my children's educational careers will resume tomorrow.  The Loony Tunes band-aid we've all been wearing for the past two weeks to cover up the painful reality of commitment to organization, early bedtimes, and serious brain activity is going to hurt just a tad when it gets ripped off with the 6 a.m. alarm.

But, onward we trod.

Most of of you are probably already into the swing of the new year, maybe even planning your snacks and crafts for Valentine's Day, but I kinda still have my heels in 2015.  I had solid intentions to write a Christmas letter this year, but alas the intention never materialized.

I could probably blame the lack of sentimental expression on the ridiculous amount of time it took me to untie the toddler, who was captured and tied to the Christmas tree, or the mountain of cereal bowls that perpetually pile up at the kitchen sink, but truth be told, it didn't get done, because the one and only time I had to sit down and write the letter also happened to be the exact moment that the house was (almost) quiet, which resulted in mommy *accidentally* falling asleep on top of the laundry that I was contemplating folding.

So, really, if we want to point fingers in blame, point 'em to our 21 week old baby who makes me really, really tired.

If the baby happens to be a girl, Perpetua Fatiguia would be most fitting.  If it's a boy, Maximus Exhaustius.

Anyway, for all y'all who can't get enough of a good Christmas letter, and for myself, who often needs to be reminded that life is indeed about more than laundry and keeping the pantry stocked, this reel of 2015 highlights is for us!

{Click on the countdown titles for more on the stories.}

Husband Family - Best of 2015

1. George's Sinus Surgery

This boy is living a whole new life, thanks to an incredible surgeon at Denver Children's Hospital. He is more energetic, able to focus in school, and more cheerful all around (yay!).  Never, ever take for granted the gift of being able to breathe, because it is just that - a gift.

2. That One Time We Were Robbed

Okay, so this may not be something most people would consider a highlight to their year, but it's something I don't ever want to forget, because it taught me some pretty valuable lessons, a few of them being that people are good (really), nothing in this world is really ours anyway, and back your stuff up.

3.  The Edel Gathering

Sometimes a mama just needs to sneak away for a weekend.  And, on that weekend, make new friends, wear some crazy shoes, relax, laugh, think, pray, and be told by the kindest hearts that she really isn't failing at this whole motherhood thing (even though she may feel like it). 

4.  Labor Day Weekend at the Lake

There's a little reason why farmers don't vacation during the summer, and it's called feeding the world. So we make the most of the little get-aways here and there throughout the rest of the year. Going to the lake over labor day with family is becoming an annual favorite!

5.  The Chicago Marathon

One of the personal goals I set for myself last year was to run a marathon in 2015.  Chicago has been on my bucket list since college, and since I would turn 40 the same month as the race I thought it would be a fitting way to celebrate the ushering in of a new decade!  

6.  A Surprise Visit From Switzerland

Our entire family was blessed with a tremendous surprise last fall when my sister, Sara, called us and told us that she was coming for a visit with her eldest daughter, Elisabeth.  We had a wonderful time relaxing, visiting, eating, sipping on wine, and watching the boys delight in Elisabeth's presence, loving her like a sister.  Living with an ocean between us never ceases to be difficult, but it sure does make the time that we are able to spend together a precious gift.

7.  Hello, We Have a High Schooler!

And Another Son Flies the Homeschool Nest

We said from the first day we jumped into homeschooling that we would take it one day at a time, one child at a time.  That philosophy was really put to the test a couple of years ago when we made a prayerful decision to send Benedict to Catholic school.  It has proven to be a very fruitful decision, as he is flourishing in so many beautiful ways.  I'm still trying to wrap my heart and mind around the reality that he's a Freshman this year! His younger brother, Andrew, is following in footsteps, and so far is enjoying the journey very much.

8.  Joseph Becomes an Official Member of the Big Brother Club

Mid May-ish our family will welcome a new little Husband.  While this precious life has come as a bit of a surprise to us (a future post for sure), we don't doubt for a moment God's goodness, His graciousness, nor His perfect plan for our family.  We do doubt, however, whether these walls can hold us all in for much longer.  House hunting is in full force!

9.  We Like Big Vans and We Cannot Lie!

And...eight plus one means we've officially outgrown the suburban.  After discussing the pros and cons of all three van choices available to large families, we settled on the Nissan NV.  Master Deal Tracker Daddy found our party wagon clear out in West Virginia. Thank you, Craigslist! 

10.  Quoteworthiness

Charlie (age 4):

Do you know what this is, Mom? 
It's an axe (read: "ask")! I made it for you to put in your tool box! 
You can use it to chop up things, or kill spiders or snakes, but probably not bears, 
bears would not be scared of this (ask) axe.

If our boys aren't eating, playing sports or pranks on each other, they're usually telling stories, and from those stories come the funniest quotes.  I like to share many of the funny things they say on my Facebook page, because who doesn't love a little boyhood humor?

Finally, thank you for visiting our family here at our little spot on the web.  I know that the frequency of my posts continues to diminish as I am meeting the more important callings of family life, but I want you to know how dearly I value your questions, kind responses, and generous love toward our family.  (A list of this year's top stories below!)

Here's to a New Year, my friends!

Post of the Year

Modesty Soapbox

A Peek at Farm Life 

Favorite Recipe Post

Moving Beyond Picture Books & Presents: Helping Your Teens Transition to a Deeper, More Meaningful Advent

"Look up, and lift up your heads, because your redemption is at hand (Luke 21:28)."  

This time of Advent is a time for hope.  These great horizons of our Christian vocation, this unity of life built on the presence of God our Father, can and ought to be a daily reality."

-St. Josemaria Escriva, Life is Passing By

Our family loves traditions, and never more so than those we experience together throughout the Advent and Christmas season.  Just a few days ago, I sat down to make my annual Advent checklist, which looked exactly like this (minus the cute paper and perfect handwriting, add coffee stains and purple marker scribbles, compliments of Jophis):

Over the past fifteen years, the Jesse Tree, Advent wreath, family book basket, Feast of St. Nicholas, and prayers around the nativity traditions have been a wonderful way for us to nurture a deeper faith in our children.  

In an effort to preserve this sacred time, and to truly give meaning to the season of Advent, it is our hope that our children will not just know, but understand and live Advent for that which it is meant to be - a season of preparation.

Yet, I confess, when the world around us begins to break out the Christmas decor before Halloween, it's a great challenge to draw their little hearts in away from secular influences and in toward Jesus Christ.

The challenge is becoming greater, now that we have teens in the house.

Every year I hear Christians chatting about how secularized Christmas has become, and how the season of Advent seems almost to have been forgotten.  We shake our heads, throw up our hands and wonder if it's worth all the effort to keep Christ in Christmas.

I admit, that I feel quite alone the day after Christmas when everyone else is taking down their decorations and lights.  What seems to be the end of the celebration is just the beginning for us.  We take that Twelve Days of Christmas song seriously!

While I'm convinced that those of us who long to live the seasons of Advent and Christmas to the fullest are not going to change society's perspective toward the true meaning of the holidays, we can have a strong and lasting influence within our own families, and pray that they will pass the truths and traditions we teach them on to their own families one day.

Maintaining the magical spirit of the season is simple with little ones, but for our older children, Steve and I have realized that there is a time of transition where they move from a simplistic experience of Christ's coming into a more sincere and efficacious one.

Steve reading from The Holy Mass after Sunday brunch.

Guidance through this transition requires time and effort on our part, and also an authentic example that is visible and trustworthy. Just a few of the ways in which we are forming and nurturing our teenage sons' faith throughout the season of Advent (and beyond) are:

1.  Advent is a Time of Preparation

We remind them that Advent (like Lent) is a time of fast and abstinence meant to prepare our souls for the reception our Lord.  What a great challenge this is, when typically the days leading up to Christmas are filled with abundant opportunities to indulge! Fasting, however, can come in forms other than giving up food.  The fruit of the sacrifice, whatever form it may be, is an increased hunger and longing for our Lord, as well as a humility that recognizes a real need for Him.

2.  Make Prayer a Priority

Making time for family prayer can be difficult, especially with so many activities and responsibilities weighing on our shoulders and our schedules.  But during Advent this is the one thing that, for our family, does not play second fiddle to other committments.  As Catholics, praying the Joyful Mysteries of the rosary together around the nativity is one of our favorite forms of prayer.  If it is late, and the children are restless, sometimes we say just a decade together, then Steve and I will finish the prayers together after the kids go to bed.

3.  Practice Examination of Conscience 

I have written more on that here, but for now, I'll just say that during Advent, in preparation for Christ's coming, we follow the example of John the Baptist who's message was one of conversion, of forgiveness, of repentance (Mark 1:3).  While we strive to pray an examination of conscience with the family once a week, our good night hugs to the older boys are often followed by a simple, "Don't forget to examine your conscience before you go to sleep."

4.  Read Aloud 

Our Christmas book basket is overflowing, as each year I cannot resist adding one or two new stories to the stack.  As the older boys have moved well beyond picture books, we still continue the tradition of reading aloud to them with more challenging texts.  This usually takes place after the evening meal or before night prayer.  Of course we understand that the little ones will reach boredom quickly, so they are allowed to color or play during this time.  We read for a short while and then have discussion.  It's amazing how even Henry, who is 8, and George, who is 10, enjoy participating in the dialog.

 *See list below of what we're reading this season.*

5.  Pray for One Another. 

Steve and I pray for each one of our children every day. But, when it comes to praying for the older children, I believe it's important that we ask them how we can pray for them, and also we request that they pray for us.

This is where the faith gets real.  Faith isn't comprised of a firm devotion to habits and traditions alone, it is a challenging interior work, a daily resolution to become less of ourselves and more of Christ. When we share a few of our own struggles to overcome ourselves, our weaknesses, and our defects with our sons, when we ask for their help through prayer, they see that we are sincere in preparing our own hearts for Christ.

Parents are first and primary Catechists to their children.  The most powerful lessons are always taught best through example.  Steve and I are by no means perfect in our endeavors to form our children in their faith.  But, we struggle on, as I hope you are too, trusting in God's mercy and love to guide us every step of the way.

*Any books relating to the faith, the saints, conversion stories, etc. are great, so long as they encourage discussion and contemplation. *

The Holy Mass 

This book is truly a gem of a read.  While it's not necessarily specific to Advent or Christmas, I wanted to include it here, because it is such a treasure and can be read year round. Steve and I are in awe of how much knowledge and wisdom we are garnering from this little book.  It is a fantastic teaching tool for parents and catechists.

Joy to the World

by Dr. Scott Hahn

The Advent of Christ: Scripture Reflections to Prepare for Christ

by Dr. Ted Sri

Advent and Christmas: Wisdom From Henri J. W. Nouwen

Jesus of Nazareth
Pope Benedict XVI 

40+ From-the-Heart {not from Target} Gift Ideas for Valentine's Day

I was inspired by two great loves to write this Valentine's Day post.  The first was my dad, who has always had a passion for small business, small towns, hard working people, the entrepreneurial spirit and generosity. I've always known him to be a faithful supporter of the "Main Street" businesses and, by his faithful example, he has taught his children to do the same. 

The second inspiration was the book, A Severe Mercy, by Sheldon Vanauken. Just after getting married, I picked up a copy and quickly fell in love with every page of this beautiful story. It's deep, rich simplicity taught me to delight, in a new way, the precious reality that to love someone is not just to celebrate the things you have in common, but to selflessly embrace everything that you don't have in common, too.  To take a sincere interest in, and to learn about the things your spouse appreciates or enjoys in life is a beautiful act of love. What a joy to discover and come to know everything about the one you love, and to embrace that one soul with your entire being! 

What if this Valentine's Day, instead of the typical commercialized gift of chocolates or roses, we all decided to give something that not only said I love you, but also, I know you? To receive a well thought out gift from someone who truly knows your heart, your interests, your hobbies, your dreams, your goals (or at least your favorite college football team) is a glorious surprise, isn't it??

And, what if this Valentine's Day we all drove on past the Target parking lot and instead hit the Main Streets of America in support of those wonderful little businesses that are just waiting to share something with us, something unique, something special? 

Just think, no circling the big box store parking lots only to be cut off by a teenager driving a faster car than your mini-van. No long lines, no marathon sprinting from one end of the warehouse to the other in search of the perfectly mass-produced gift.  Instead, how about a friendly hello, may I help you, thank you for stopping in, and a hearty come back soon??! Mmmm....that sounds nice! 

Perhaps the loveliness sounds ideal but nearly impossible for so many of you busy moms out there. Well, if your life is anything like like mine, and the mere thought of keeping six squirmy kids away from the breakables makes you sweat, then you're in luck! I just happen to have a perfect little list of fantastic businesses you can support at home, on the couch, in your jammies, from your laptop. 

It's a virtual Main Street just for you!! 

A hearty thanks to everyone who took the time to link up their favorite Etsy stores on my Facebook page. You all truly know where to shop! Here's a visual perk of a few of my faves:

/1./ His and Her Puzzle Necklace from Your Charmed Life (Making a wish list for this site!)

/2./ Gold Heart Shoes by Bad Bebe

/3./ Screen Printed Tea Towel from Oh, Little Rabbit

/4./ Live Like Paul T-Shirt - please support Team Ann and Paul Coakley

(If you don't buy anything else this Valentine's Day, BUY THIS SHIRT!)

/5./ Beard and Mustache grooming set from One DTQ

/6./ J.R.R. Tolkien Cuff Links from Bridgie & Green  (Seriously?? How awesome are these??!!)

/7./ Neckties from Petite Peanut (I dare you to find anything cuter than a boy in a bow tie. Double dare.)

For the Littles

BKY Kid - father/son matching shirts (must. have. these.)

Penny Jules - beaded hair combs (lovely for the locks) 

Whole Parenting Goods (Um, everything here, please.)

Little Crane Headbands - simple yet adorable hair accessories

Wild Explorers - beautiful baby mocs for squishy feet

Mary's Knits - beanies for babies (You must see the photos on this page!)

Petite Peanut  - neckties for your dapper dude

Baby Jives Co. - sweet heart mobile

Clothing & Accessories

Jill Makes - unique jewelry pieces

Call Her Happy - tiny, sweet, embroidery hoop necklaces

Brag, Bling & Bows - the perfect bling for athlete mamas
Todd Borka - hand drawn custom portrait pendants

Ashcraft Creative - hand tooled leather goods

Wrenn Jewelry 

Your Charmed Life - personalized jewelry, key chains and guitar picks

WiReD - jewelry
That Chic Mom T's - Fun, quirky t's for moms
Gameday Couture - Super cute gameday wear

Paper Goods

With Joy Calligraphy - cards, decorative quotes and stationary

Dovetail Ink - beautiful artwork

Fancy Flamingo - burlap and paper banners

Klamoty Studio - custom cartoon style portraits

Best Design Land - instant download cards/wall graphics

For the Guys

Jude Landry Designs - graphic prints on paper and clothing

Bridgie & Green - J.R.R.Tolkien cuff links

Mintage Designs - rustic beer tote

One DTQ - beard and mustache grooming set

Your Charmed Life - personalized guitar Picks

Gameday Couture - Okay, so this is really for the ladies, but the guys will love it, too!

For Your Dwelling Place

Magic Crochet by Helena - cozy hug mug

Audrey Eclectic - beautiful American folk art
Do Small Things With Love - cross stitch
Lizzy Joe Designs - wine cork coasters
Ridge and Valley Metalworks - garden signs and home state love
Mixed Bag Sign Co. - creative quotes and designs for your walls
ME Designs - personalized name with bible verse
The Fair Line - fair trade goods

Faith Filled Gifts

Organic Mamas Shop - So many beauties!
(50% of your purchase goes toward helping the Coakleys!)
Blessed is She - devotions, prints, bible studies
Signs of Love - My morning coffee has just found a new mug!
The Crossmakers - handheld wooden crosses

Trendy Traditions - rosaries

St. Luke's Brush - mini saint figurines

Divine Designs - jewelry

A Twist on Traditional Gifts

The Little Succulent Shoppe - In lieu of roses, a heart shaped succulent wreath.

Artisan Chocolates - Because, there must be chocolate on Valentine's Day!

Treesnail - aaromatherapy + lip balm set


Do you have a favorite Etsy store or 
online business you'd like for us to visit? 
Please share it with us in the comments!

Chocolate Covered Candy Cane Marshmallow Generosity - The Boys' TakeCharge of the Treats

Since generosity is the virtue our family is focusing on this Advent, last week I asked the boys if they would like to put some charity into practice by making something homemade for their homeschool classmates. They were so eager to jump right in, that I decided to let them completely take charge of choosing and making the treats for their friends. 

This was a good idea because why, again, can you remind me??? Ha! Just kidding. Say it with me, sugar-coated chaos is fun!!

What I realized after it was all said and done is that if you give boys free reign in the land o' treat making they will always:

1. Instinctively find the recipe with the most grams of sugar per bite (marshmallows, candy canes, chocolate and sprinkles, need I say more?) Yay for dental bills! Note Exhibit A:

{Source}

2. Continually lick their fingers even if you make them wear gloves. Behold Exhibit B (Charlie's 17th pair): 

3. Ruin half of the treats by infecting them with finger-licked germs, so you must always buy twice the number of ingredients and plan on the "easy" Pinterest project taking twice the amount of time than if you were making them yourself and zero children were near the cooking premises.

Of course, it always requires a healthy dose of patience and a bottle of Holly Nog to let kids make anything with more than two steps entirely on their own, but nothing is better than the pride and joy they feel in making something from start to finish all by themselves for someone else.

Aside from melting the chocolate for these little cavity inducers, and being on finger-licking patrol, I kept my arms out of the project and wrapped around Joey the entire time. The boys did such a great job! I wish I had a photo of them delivering the finished packages to each of their peers. Their grins were priceless.

Steve and I try to teach it is in giving that we receive to the boys, words we, as adults, are still trying to trust.  Being generous not only with our material blessings, but also with our time, can sometimes be a challenge to our self-seeking natures.

We can only be said to be alive when our hearts are truly conscious of our treasures.

 - Thornton Wilder

How many more days 'til Christmas, Mommy??

If you have little ones at your feet today, I bet that, like me, you've been asked that question countless times over the past few weeks.

Weren't we the same when we were young? There's so much excitement wrapped up in the Advent and Christmas seasons.  I wish I could say with 100% confidence that my boys are counting down to Christmas purely because they are awaiting the supreme gift of Christ, O Come, O Come Emmanuel, but the honest truth is they can't wait to see what Santa brings.

I'm not sure our nature changes all that much much as we get older.  The longing for something more, to be blessed, to be surprised, to be thought of, to be given something we can call our own is within each of us.  Those longings can be such a good thing, provided they are anchored in Christ.

My children make dozens of requests every day, from a necessary glass of water to unnecessary extras such as sweet treats, toys or more TV time.  Being asked over and over constantly for things is kind of exhausting, isn't it?

I wonder sometimes if I weary the Lord with all of my requests, I'm quite certain that I lack gratitude and thanksgiving in a measure that far exceeds my wants. Steve is always saying that we cannot give that which we don't possess.

How can I expect my children to live a life of gratitude if they don't see it in me, or hear it from me first??

There is so much to be thankful for. All of the time.

During the penitential seasons of the church, I like for our family to choose a virtue that we can focus on together, and this Advent we chose generosity.

Deep and sincere generosity toward others comes from a place of gratitude.  When we understand how blessed we are, giving to others is a natural response.  We have a quote from Ben Franklin on our wall that says, "What good can I do today?" I knew when I saw it in the store that it would become a focal point in our home, not just for the boys, but for Steve and me as well.

Despite the visual reminder hanging in our living room, there is still a tendency in our home toward selfishness. The children need a great deal of encouragement as well as practical opportunities to grow in virtue without being overly criticized for their faults or feeling overwhelmed by their weaknesses.

I always thought as the kids got older that we would go out as a family and participate in volunteer work at soup kitchens or shelters, but many of those places require kids to be of a certain age before they may volunteer.

So, until the boys are a bit older, I have to set my ideals aside and show them that our home is full of people to care for and every day offers an abundance of opportunities to be generous.

I am certainly no expert when it comes to raising sons, but many of you have asked for me to share details of few of what we do in our home to foster virtues in our children.  I also love it so much when you share your wisdom with me! Here are a few ways we encourage generosity in our sons:

At meal time, we ask each of our children to serve someone else at the table, and to be mindful, especially, of the littlest ones' needs to have their food cut, to have a water glass replenished, or second helpings given. While the younger children often desire a reward for their sacrifices, the older boys are beginning to discover the merits in exercising generosity without being asked or prompted.  They are attentive to Joseph when they know I am needed elsewhere, often clean up toys or dishes without being asked, and even take over another brothers' chore without him even knowing.

When they balk at being generous when asked, I find it is helpful (but not always a cure for the bad attitude) to remind the boys that we are ultimately serving the Lord, and that the rewards for every act of loving sacrifice are eternal.  Jesus didn't feel like giving His life for us, but He did, and He is the perfect example of charity in action.

When we're out as a family, during our time together in the car, I try to remind the boys that as young men they are called to be an example of courage, strength and sacrifice to the world.  They can demonstrate these virtues by opening doors for others, assisting the elderly, being gracious to those who serve us and even just cheerfully acknowledging others with a kind hello or how are you can be an act of sincere generosity.

I think it is especially important, as well, that children remember generosity toward grandparents. Our boys pull weeds and mow lawns for grandparents during the summer months whenever possible. And, if they are not sure how they can be helpful, we just remind them to ask, "Is there anything I can do to help you today?" Grandparents cherish children's thoughtfulness and their helpful hearts, too!

Each Christmas the boys put their names in a hat and draw someone whom they will either buy or make a gift for.  If they don't have any money of their own, and want to purchase a gift, then we put up a list of chores that can be completed for payment such as detailing the car or cleaning out the garage. I feel that this doubles their generosity, because they have to sacrifice play time to work hard in order to obtain their goal!

In addition to Christmas, birthdays and Father's day are also special times during the year for them to show extra special acts of generosity toward others through the gift of sharing something they possess, doing chores for others, or making or buying a gift for a family member.

I really love how every day family life provides the most perfect and abundant opportunities for everyone to strive toward living a virtuous life.  It just takes a little bit of effort on the parents' part to show the children how precious these opportunities are, and that the value in seizing the opportunities has an eternal reward.

The Lovely New Additions to Our Family Christmas Book Basket

One of my favorite childhood memories is of when I was quite small, maybe six or seven. I was invited to my friend Kim's house for a sleepover just days before Christmas.  I'll never forget the cozy warmth of their farmhouse, which was decorated in the most charming and magical way. The top of the upright piano glistened with the delight of a perfect little Christmas village, the tall, robust tree strung with what seemed like a million lights, set the entire house a glow.

Kim and I wiggled our little selves underneath the tree and, wedged between the soft carpet and broad canopy of branches, we stared up into the sparkling lights while her mom read to us story after story, until we couldn't hold our eyes open any longer.

I'm quite certain that that experience sparked the beginning of my love affair with books.  And the treasure of that memory is what inspires me to read to my own children beneath the tree lights or snuggled up by the fire during the Advent and Christmas seasons.

{Who am I kidding.  We have boys.  If they laid under the tree, it would be a horizontal nightmare in approximately 7 seconds.  We read on the couch and stare at the tree from afar, and that's as magical as it gets.} 

{Link to last years list}

A couple of years ago I decided to share a few of the books I had collected for our Christmas book basket.  Then, last year, I added a few more.  Your response to those posts was tremendous, so I've decided to continue sharing that list plus the new additions we make each year.

Choosing just one or two books for our basket is no easy task, because my wish list is a mile long. I like to keep all of our treasures together in one big basket for the boys during the holidays, and I actually pack the basket away when the Christmas season ends.  Doing so helps me keep track of our beloved stories and also builds an anticipation for reading them that otherwise might not be quite as strong if the books were left out on the shelves of our library year round.

And, also, hiding the books is just me protecting our financial investment in the children's inheritance.  Aren't they going to be thrilled to see 10,000 books written into the will? Concealing the goods keeps tragic shredding and "accidental" destruction to a minimum, since books have also been known to be used as frisbees, snack platters and door stops in our house.

Here are the two new additions to our collection 

that I am excited to share with you:

24 Stories to Welcome Jesus

 

This book was chosen for the little guys in our family! Although it's intended to be read from the beginning of Advent (December 1) to Christmas day, we will be reading it throughout the Christmas season. Here is a more detailed description from Ignatius Press:

The joy and hope of Christmas are at the heart of this book intended for the whole family. Starting with the 1st of December (like an Advent calendar) each day has a new story, leading up to Christmas. Richly illustrated, this collection includes stories based on the Gospel accounts of the birth of Christ, as well as stories about Advent and Christmas customs. Also presented are original tales about living the Christmas message. 

The Gift of the Christmas Cookie: Sharing the True Meaning of Jesus' Birth 

by Dandi Daley Mackall

If you enjoy the tradition of baking cookies at Christmas time, you and your kiddos will LOVE this book! Set during the depression era, The Gift of the Christmas Cookie is an inspiring story that beautifully intertwines the legend of the Christmas cookie with a tale of great generosity. The illustrations are as lovely as the story.  You will never think of Christmas cookies the same way after reading it!

You guys know I cannot keep all of this literary goodness to myself....so I'm happy be GIVING AWAY a $25 gift card to Amazon.com!! Both the new titles, and most (if not all) of the books from my list of twenty-five favorites can be purchased there.

The giveaway begins today, Monday, December 1 and ends Friday, December 5.  The winner will be announced on Friday on my Facebook page and contacted via e-mail.  
Good luck and happy reading!!

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Remembering Our Veterans - A Hometown Tradition

Veteran's Day will forever be a holiday that is near and dear to my heart. My father served in the Vietnam War, and is a noble patriot and hero to our family. Two years ago, after visiting my hometown during the holiday, I wrote a post in reflection and admiration of the beautiful way our city continues to honor our military on Veteran's Day.  I hope you don't mind if I share it again with you today.  If you should happen to see a veteran or person in military service, please, offer them your appreciation!

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For many people, small town life has very little appeal.  Kids graduate from high-school, go on to college, and so few of them return to the place where their childhood memories were made.  I am one of those people. Maybe you are, too. Yet, I would have to say, that I wouldn't change the location of my upbringing for the world.  

I was reminded of how much I love small town America last weekend, when  I returned home with my own family to visit my parents.  Over the weekend, our boys went pheasant hunting with their dad, uncles and a few other family and friends. During their absence, my mother, sister-in-law and her two girls and Charlie and I headed to town to enjoy lunch together and to take in our town's annual Veteran's Day parade.

To an outsider, the worth of a place like Belleville might only be measured in the convenience of a place to get an ice-cream cone or use the restroom while passing through to bigger and better places. But, to those of us who have embraced small town life, there are beauties that perhaps only we can see and appreciate.  That sense of appreciation was rekindled in my heart as we cruised the town square stopping to visit with folks that I hadn't seen in years.  Strolling in and out of the downtown shops, everyone is happy to see you, happy you have taken a moment to patronize their store.  People remember you, and care to hear your story - where you live now, and how your family has grown.

Small towns appreciate and embrace traditions in a special way.  Like the tradition of celebrating Veteran's Day with a parade.  Standing on the curb, holding Charlie back from the action while the entries cruised by, I couldn't help but feel a bit sentimental over all of the parades I had enjoyed in the past at the edge of that very same street.  

It was a childhood joy to find a spot on the curb, to dash out into the waves of candy that rolled toward our scampering feet.  Enthusiastically, we watched the floats roll by, their decorations waving in the wind. Our hearts beamed with pride as we saluted the veterans, young and old, who rolled by, seated upon those floats.  They were there, not to be remembered, but to help us remember that freedom isn't free. 

In my teen days the honor of marching in the band, playing with pride the songs that everyone knew, The Marine Corp Hymn, The Caissons Go Rolling Along, and Anchors Aweigh, is something I will never forget.  We marched through great gusts of wind, the bitter cold even sleet and snow. No matter what the conditions were, we marched.

We played our hearts out for every Veteran who attended, who saluted the flag with pride, hearts over hands, tears rolling down wrinkled cheeks, eyes expressive of stories that none of us will ever know or even hope to understand.  I played for my dad, always hoping to catch a glimpse of him somewhere along the parade route. My hometown is smaller now, the band is fewer in number, the streets aren't as crowded as in past years, but thankfully the tradition of the parade continues.

No matter how you feel about war or what your political views are, let us not forget that it is not because of our government but because of our brave and selfless men and women in uniform who have courageously served our country that you and I can speak freely, worship weekly, and sleep peacefully at night.  Veteran's Day may have passed, but it's never too late to say thank you to a Veteran.

Father's Day Recap 2014

As the boys get older, and their bonds with Steve grow ever closer, I find myself enjoying the celebration of Father's Day more and more.  This year, I was certain that baby would have arrived by now and therefore my plans to have a big BBQ, homemade ice-cream and an outdoor theatre created for movie night would have been a smashing success.

But, you know. You know, you know, you know that my big plans never bloomed out of the planning stage because baby aint' here yet!

But, I did manage to shuffle around the kitchen and whip up a little sumpin' special for breakfast, and, thankfully, the boys poured their ever-lovin' little hearts into creating special messages for their papa, fill-in-the-blank style.  I must say I was really impressed with their dish-washing efficiency as well as their surprisingly successful attempt to keep the crazy under control long enough for dad to get in a deep drooling nap, because it's not a real nap unless you drool.

I appreciate, admire and adore Steve for more reasons than I could ever count. One of those you're-the-best-husband-ever reasons is that he fields all of the manly questions that I could never handle without Google and Tylenol. Questions like: Is a 243 bigger than a 7mm? (We're talking guns, not camera lenses here, in case you were wondering.) Or, Does Fendt make a 939 model? (Fendt = Tractors)

They also like to impress him with questions that are meant to be conversation starters, questions that they know Steve will respond enthusiastically to such as, Did you know that LeBron James never played college ball? He went straight out of high school to the pros!

He also handles all requests for paintball wars, hunting trips, playing golf and building large contraptions that require accurate measurements and the proper use of loud and dangerous power tools. All of these "tough" questions make inquiries such as "what's for supper" and "have you seen my slingshot, because I need to kill the rabbit eating the lettuce in your garden?" a a cake walk in the mental park for me!

After the last cinnamon roll was scraped from the pan, it was time for the boys to give daddy their little notes. What I thought was going to be kind of a generic form of expression (fill-in-the-blanks on plain white paper isn't really the poetic expression sprinkled with rainbow glitter that I had in mind) actually ended up being quite humorous and beautifully endearing at the same time.

{Source}

Each boy wanted to be close to their dad while he read their notes, and they insisted that he read them aloud. Steve was really touched by how much the boys knew about him, and as they affectionately awaited his reaction to their gifts, I could see the depths of their need for him to understand just how much they love him, and to know how his example and presence in their lives is of inexpressible value and worth.

 {Henry} My dad is funny because: He teases me.  My Dad thinks I'm funny when: I tease him!

 {George} My favorite thing about my Dad is: He makes life fun.

{Andrew} My favorite thing about my dad is: He is always ready to have fun and he is dedicated to us.

 {Benedict} My favorite thing about my Dad is: He is always there for me through thick and thin.

{Charlie} I just like it when we match.

Here's to all the great dads out there!!