Smart Birds
Posted by Rebecca Teti in Just me on Monday, January 30, 2012
While welcoming children and families from Catholic Action during yesterday’s Angelus, the Pope released two doves as a sign of peace.
One stayed on the sill and the other flew back into the papal apartment.
You can hear him chuckling, and then he tells the kids, “They want to stay in the Pope’s house!”
So cute!
Remembering 9/11 With Prayer
Posted by Danielle Bean in Faith on Sunday, September 11, 2011
On this tenth anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, let us remember to pray. Here are the words Pope Benedict XVI prayed when he visited Ground Zero three years ago:
O God of love, compassion, and healing,
look on us, people of many different faiths
and traditions,
who gather today at this site,
the scene of incredible violence and pain.
We ask you in your goodness
to give eternal light... READ MORE
The Stranger in the Corner
Posted by Rachel Balducci in Family on Tuesday, August 23, 2011
A friend sent along one of those much-forward emails (the kind I tend to ignore)—but this one really caught my attention. Tell me what you think:
A few years after I was born, my Dad met a stranger who was new to our small town. From the beginning, Dad was fascinated with this enchanting newcomer and soon invited him to live with our family. The stranger was quickly accepted and was around from then... READ MORE
Reflection, Redirection
Posted by Rachel Balducci in Family on Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Our summer is going so great—lots of fun and action and activity.
But there is also lots of fatigue. Summertime, while wonderful, can also be exhausting.
This song was an effective “reset” for me this afternoon when I was feeling a bit overwhelmed by the noise and speed of my day. I hope it helps you too, if you are in need of a deep cleansing breath.
Inner Peace
Posted by Rachel Balducci in Family on Thursday, July 14, 2011
Right now, it’s crazy loud in my house. I turned on an after-dinner movie, hoping to settle the scene. It’s not working.
In the front room, two of the boys just finished an obstacle course that involved playing leap frog with my leather ottoman’s. There are dress-up’s strewn throughout the kitchen, someone is asking for a snack even though dinner ended ten minutes prior.
Cue toddler crying, wanting... READ MORE
Why Purge?
Posted by Rachel Balducci in Family on Tuesday, March 15, 2011
As I shared last week, I was feeling a little iffy about doing the 40 Bags challenge this year. Mostly, I had been thinking that after last year’s efforts, I wouldn’t have enough stuff to donate.
Turns out, I totally do.
I’m doing an active purge again this year, and even though I won’t get nearly the amount of bags as last year, I am still doing a fairly impressive job of finding things around our... READ MORE
STOP, already!
Posted by Lynn Wehner in Just me on Monday, January 31, 2011
THIS, my friends, is my front sidewalk. And oh, how I am struck with the appropriateness of that big red STOP sign at the end of the trail.
My January 2011 mantra:
“STOP snowing!”
“STOP being so cold!”
“STOP this winter, I want to get off!”
I’m curious, for those of you living in wintry zones, are you feeling like a prisoner to mountainous snow banks, icy gutters, and the panicky feeling that it’s only a matter of time before your roof & ceilings have issues? Or can you still look at each new snow with serenity?
I’m trying really hard to see this “roadside snow” with the same romance that I see “forest snow.” But my heart’s just not in it. I’m begging you to give me a reason or two to love this ... there’s a lot of winter left!
Thought for a Snowy Weekend
Posted by Lynn Wehner in Faith on Saturday, January 08, 2011
When I look at falling snow through my car windshield, it tenses me up with stress.
When I look at it through my kitchen window, it relaxes me with peace.
Same snow - opposite response.
Like with our faith, it’s all about “where you are” when the storm hits.
Peace for Weary Travelers
Posted by Lynn Wehner in Homemaking on Thursday, December 23, 2010
Expecting house guests this weekend for Christmas? Or later this season?
Most likely, they’ve come a long way to spend some time with your family, and most likely they’re pretty fried by the time they’ve braved traffic, airports, or weather. How can you make their arrival more peaceful? A few last-minute reminders and simple ideas …
1. Greet them at the door with as many luggage carriers as your house... READ MORE
Multitasking Mamas
Posted by Lynn Wehner in Family on Tuesday, December 21, 2010
“I am woman. Hear me roar.” I can do 5 things at the same time. What skill! Uh, right? Lately, I’m having my doubts.
A priest recently spoke about Mother Teresa. A friend of his was able to spend a few minutes with her. What struck him most was her spirit of detachment.
At the very moment she was in his presence, a million things with her order’s sisters were going on around the world. Important... READ MORE
