tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22406752739286659482024-03-12T22:02:14.694-06:00Domesticity and DoctrineErikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.comBlogger77125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-27575963321019288422013-09-16T06:00:00.000-06:002013-09-16T06:00:10.628-06:00Classical Catholic Homeschooling, 2013-2014 Lesson PlansI vowed to be one of those homeschooling parents that didn't let things slide during the summer.<br />
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That I would "do school" all year long.<br />
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I was going to be Super Teacher in this house, yes sir.<br />
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But...I wasn't.<br />
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Sitting out on the porch watching my kids ride their bikes was an irresistible attraction.<br />
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Watching them run through the sprinklers was irresistible, too.<br />
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Then I got started on my <a href="http://thetransformblog.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">new blog project</a>.<br />
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Eventually, I just gave up!<br />
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The positive side is, now I have an official start to the 2013-2014 homeschool year.<br />
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And all of you get a post.<br />
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<h4>
1st Grade Plans</h4>
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Princess is 6 and in First Grade. With her I'm doing:<br />
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<h3>
History</h3>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wn8AexgvLZg/UjTQKEb_FbI/AAAAAAAABhE/LLHMEATkXKA/s1600/IMG_1794.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wn8AexgvLZg/UjTQKEb_FbI/AAAAAAAABhE/LLHMEATkXKA/s640/IMG_1794.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<li><a href="http://www.rchistory.com/" target="_blank">Connecting With History</a>, Vol. 1 (Ancient History)</li>
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We actually did the first unit last spring. It is <i>excellent</i>. I am really pleased with their curriculum.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EgmjQ_tpQ3w/UjTRV0JxQjI/AAAAAAAABhQ/f_Qi1B9VK34/s1600/IMG_1795.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EgmjQ_tpQ3w/UjTRV0JxQjI/AAAAAAAABhQ/f_Qi1B9VK34/s640/IMG_1795.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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We're just finishing up Unit 2 now. Each one takes about four weeks, depending on how in-depth you choose to go (extra reading, crafts, presentations, etc).<br />
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What I personally enjoy about the curriculum is that it covers a broad base of subjects. We're not <i>only</i> learning history; we're also doing geography, literature, language, social studies and religion. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M8rLOWLAsbM/UjTRqf6UFHI/AAAAAAAABhY/Gdo_XV7qPzc/s1600/IMG_1800.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M8rLOWLAsbM/UjTRqf6UFHI/AAAAAAAABhY/Gdo_XV7qPzc/s640/IMG_1800.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I purchased the <a href="http://www.rchistory.com/daily-lesson-plans-volume-1-3-hole-punched/" target="_blank">Daily Lesson Plans</a>, which recommend what I should do each day to cover all the material. I don't think I could do this program well without them!<br />
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They are a huge time and sanity saver.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1SupXHL6Rj8/UjTShktsCCI/AAAAAAAABhk/0Vsa1tNtHWk/s1600/IMG_1755.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1SupXHL6Rj8/UjTShktsCCI/AAAAAAAABhk/0Vsa1tNtHWk/s640/IMG_1755.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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The core books for our history program are the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/089942435X/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=089942435X&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">New Catholic Picture Bible</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=089942435X" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />, <a href="http://www.neumannpress.com/lanofourladb.html" target="_blank">Founders of Freedom</a>, and Usborne's <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0746033656/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0746033656&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Time Traveler</a>.<br />
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Most of the other books we use I am able to check out from our local library as needed.<br />
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<h3>
Math</h3>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SaIlJ298JZs/UjTVxcmaOmI/AAAAAAAABhw/6Ef9RPBrdfA/s1600/IMG_1802.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SaIlJ298JZs/UjTVxcmaOmI/AAAAAAAABhw/6Ef9RPBrdfA/s640/IMG_1802.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0746033656" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.mathmammoth.com/" target="_blank">Math Mammoth</a> (Grade 1)</li>
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I decided on Math Mammoth because of the excellent reviews and affordability. I also liked that it is mastery-oriented and requires little prep on my part. </div>
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My daughter started the workbook last spring and has taken off with her math skills.<br />
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I use beans and an <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00005BVRQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00005BVRQ&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">abacus</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00005BVRQ" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> as our manipulatives.<br />
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<h3>
Reading and Language Arts</h3>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-brO_6qLf7bo/UjTX1AWZNGI/AAAAAAAABh8/E9RAYkyqq2A/s1600/IMG_1777.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-brO_6qLf7bo/UjTX1AWZNGI/AAAAAAAABh8/E9RAYkyqq2A/s640/IMG_1777.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0972860312/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0972860312&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">The Ordinary Parent's Guide to Teaching Reading</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0972860312" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1933339446/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1933339446&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">First Language Lessons for the Well-Trained Mind: Level 1 (Second Edition)</a></li>
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My daughter is halfway through TOPGTR, but is still resistant to reading. My only real "<b>must</b> do" goal for the end of first grade is to get her reading confidently on her own.</div>
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Having only done a few of the lessons out of FLL, I can't comment on how well I like it. One conflict I've already seen is that it has the student memorize many poems and passages throughout the year, while our history curriculum also has similar memorization built in to their program. </div>
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For now we are only doing that which is recommended in Connecting With History. If my daughter appears she can do more, we will add in those from FLL.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-olNZVWPJsJY/UjTbDuVNiWI/AAAAAAAABiI/aJuxmBvblhs/s1600/IMG_1758.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="412" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-olNZVWPJsJY/UjTbDuVNiWI/AAAAAAAABiI/aJuxmBvblhs/s640/IMG_1758.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm excited about these early readers we just received from Seton Press:<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.setonbooks.com/viewone.php?ToView=P-RD01-23" target="_blank">These are our Friends</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.setonbooks.com/viewone.php?ToView=P-RD01-22" target="_blank">This is our Family</a></li>
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<h3>
Religion</h3>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CO0Ww0hhaRE/UjTcB0vTMAI/AAAAAAAABiQ/JvKnPE9zNSs/s1600/IMG_1746.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CO0Ww0hhaRE/UjTcB0vTMAI/AAAAAAAABiQ/JvKnPE9zNSs/s640/IMG_1746.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0899422403/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0899422403&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Saint Joseph First Communion Catechism (No. 0)</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0899422403" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
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It will be a year before my daughter will officially enter First Communion prep, but this little catechism is so perfect for teaching even little Catholics! </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-49xmQlgZaPA/UjTdf2hyuLI/AAAAAAAABic/L3mH7MRA_1A/s1600/IMG_1784.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-49xmQlgZaPA/UjTdf2hyuLI/AAAAAAAABic/L3mH7MRA_1A/s640/IMG_1784.png" width="426" /></a></div>
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We've went through the book last year, but I am doing it again this year. As children mature they pick up on more concepts.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gv3UA9EI86A/UjTdx0WONJI/AAAAAAAABik/gMNg2X8ohHU/s1600/IMG_1787.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gv3UA9EI86A/UjTdx0WONJI/AAAAAAAABik/gMNg2X8ohHU/s640/IMG_1787.png" width="462" /></a></div>
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The illustrations are a big help in facilitating understanding!</div>
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We'll also be reading these frequently:</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UZ79nVX--qE/UjTeJi3YpbI/AAAAAAAABis/e-Hne0lql68/s1600/IMG_1780.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UZ79nVX--qE/UjTeJi3YpbI/AAAAAAAABis/e-Hne0lql68/s640/IMG_1780.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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And my absolute favorite little books (lucky library sale find):</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OrKrjMnD_n4/UjTeVS3opvI/AAAAAAAABi0/w7WHYfoaUiw/s1600/IMG_1789.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="412" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OrKrjMnD_n4/UjTeVS3opvI/AAAAAAAABi0/w7WHYfoaUiw/s640/IMG_1789.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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We have a pretty healthy collection of faith-based videos for "Mommy Break Time." These are a few:</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CubXuu09oIw/UjTfGR5NnwI/AAAAAAAABi8/DmgFPD3sVGE/s1600/IMG_1815.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CubXuu09oIw/UjTfGR5NnwI/AAAAAAAABi8/DmgFPD3sVGE/s640/IMG_1815.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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My (lofty) goal is to get them to a daily Mass at least once a week as well. It terrifies me, but I know I'll get over it eventually.<br />
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<h3>
Handwriting</h3>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xBlZpNP29Sw/UjTf_q1aD3I/AAAAAAAABjE/n9NaES0HiSs/s1600/IMG_1750.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xBlZpNP29Sw/UjTf_q1aD3I/AAAAAAAABjE/n9NaES0HiSs/s640/IMG_1750.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.abeka.com/ABekaOnline/BookDescription.aspx?sbn=47236" target="_blank">Writing with Phonics, K5 Cursive</a> (Abeka)</li>
<li><a href="http://www.abeka.com/ABekaOnline/BookDescription.aspx?sbn=31461" target="_blank">Kindergarten Writing Tablet, Cursive</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.abeka.com/ABekaOnline/BookDescription.aspx?sbn=53929" target="_blank">Numbers Writing Tablet, K</a></li>
</ul>
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We started these last spring, too. They make learning the cursive letters simple, and to me they were the prettiest script.</div>
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Some parents choose not to introduce cursive until 2nd grade, or not at all. My own personal preference is that my children do learn to write neatly and beautifully. It's not one of those "must have" skills, especially in today's computer age where everything is done on a keypad -- but I still believe there is value to learning something that is attractive and requires detailed control. </div>
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When to introduce cursive is ultimately dependent on the coordination (and willingness) of the child. My daughter was definitely ready at age 5. My son, who is 4 1/2, will probably not be ready until he is 7.</div>
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<h3>
Supplements</h3>
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The above forms the core of our first grade curriculum. However, as supplements I am doing the following:</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GA8qOzGFhM0/UjTgi3e_RjI/AAAAAAAABjM/U0u-BgZlxSA/s1600/IMG_1775.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GA8qOzGFhM0/UjTgi3e_RjI/AAAAAAAABjM/U0u-BgZlxSA/s640/IMG_1775.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/076968291X/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=076968291X&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Phonics, Grade 1 (Spectrum)</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=076968291X" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0769636918/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0769636918&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Math, Grade 1 (Spectrum)</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0769636918" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
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I seriously love the Spectrum workbooks. They are fun for the kids and give me a good benchmark for what they "should" be proficient in by the end of the year (as compared to national standards). </div>
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I use them as a free-time activity. ("Oh you're bored? Here, do this! Yay!") </div>
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I wouldn't recommend them as a stand-alone teaching resource. They're definitely more for reviewing concepts or giving kids extra practice in their studies.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F1ScCJ7pQ5w/UjThGgkrPcI/AAAAAAAABjs/Z0A4TwFEN-U/s1600/IMG_1805.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F1ScCJ7pQ5w/UjThGgkrPcI/AAAAAAAABjs/Z0A4TwFEN-U/s640/IMG_1805.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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For art and drawing, I rely on library books such as the one pictured above.<br />
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I also bought a lot of bottles of inexpensive acrylic paint from the craft & hobby store, and we have painting once a week. I show my children famous paintings and point out the techniques used (my dear friend here who homeschools taught me to do this!), then they paint their own using similar techniques. Or, for example, we look at a book on autumn leaves and their changing colors, talk about why it happens, then they paint their own leaves.<br />
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It's very basic and the emphasis is on enjoyment.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WVgeMp3JhOI/UjThNMi0wAI/AAAAAAAABj0/-8fWhI3K3fA/s1600/IMG_1803.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WVgeMp3JhOI/UjThNMi0wAI/AAAAAAAABj0/-8fWhI3K3fA/s640/IMG_1803.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/193095350X/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=193095350X&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Prima Latina, Pronunciation CD</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=193095350X" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
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I wasn't going to introduce Latin until 3rd grade, but then I found this Prima Latina cd at a garage sale. Geared for the lower grades (1-3), it is a really nice, easy introduction to Latin and prayers such as the Our Father.<br />
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I don't have the corresponding workbook, but I don't really know that it's necessary. All the lessons are on the CD and if I need to know how to spell a word, I can just Google it.<br />
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(Some reviewers seem put off by the southern accent of the narrator, but honestly I barely noticed -- and I'm about as northern as you get. It only becomes obvious a couple of times, and even then it's not that heavy. So if you're considering this, I encourage you not to bypass it simply on these grounds.)<br />
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Our goal is to do this a couple times a week.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aLRdYdrwuaM/UjTgtc4l52I/AAAAAAAABjU/YJI00E2DaMY/s1600/IMG_1811.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aLRdYdrwuaM/UjTgtc4l52I/AAAAAAAABjU/YJI00E2DaMY/s640/IMG_1811.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I don't do anything specific for social studies aside from what we learn through Connecting With History and the books we read.</div>
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But one thing we all enjoy are these short videos about families from other countries. Each video features a rural and urban family from a particular country and describes how they live from the point of view of the child.<br />
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We have a lot of interesting discussions afterward about how other people live around the world. It's especially eye-opening for my children, I think, because almost all of the families -- regardless of country of origin -- live in poorer material circumstances than we do in the U.S. It's important to me that my children understand this and see that even though these children rarely have toys, eat very basic and mundane meals, and at times literally have dirt floors...they are <i>happy, energetic and content</i> individuals.<br />
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<b>Note:</b> You may have noticed I don't have anything for Science. I am not formally teaching science this year, though I will be checking out science books from the library on a regular basis for us to read and discuss together. I also have a book of scientific experiments, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0787989282/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0787989282&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Janice VanCleave's Big Book of Play and Find Out Science Projects</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0787989282" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />, that we will be doing throughout the year.<br />
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Kindergarten Plans</h4>
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My son is 4 1/2 and technically would only be in preschool or "K4." But since I have the luxury of teaching him at his actual skill level, we are doing kindergarten or "K5" work this year. (He is so adept with numbers that I project we'll be moving into 1st grade math this winter.)</div>
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<h3>
Math</h3>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J3T_WVV-60A/UjTg0rzNM6I/AAAAAAAABjc/8U5pPlzv8_M/s1600/IMG_1773.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="390" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J3T_WVV-60A/UjTg0rzNM6I/AAAAAAAABjc/8U5pPlzv8_M/s640/IMG_1773.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.setonbooks.com/viewone.php?ToView=P-MA00-15" target="_blank">Mathematics K for Young Catholics</a> by Seton Press</li>
</ul>
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This is such a neat math book! The content is solid, and there is Catholic artwork peppered throughout the pages. </div>
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Handwriting</h3>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x-n5i-2nzTo/UjThWbbqf4I/AAAAAAAABj8/G3aiAxX1xNM/s1600/IMG_1791.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="472" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x-n5i-2nzTo/UjThWbbqf4I/AAAAAAAABj8/G3aiAxX1xNM/s640/IMG_1791.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AHUKP9E/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00AHUKP9E&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">LeapFrog Printing Dry Erase Practice Workbook for Grades K-1</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00AHUKP9E" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
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We're still working on pencil-holding skills and so this reusable printing workbook is perfect for my boy. It helps him to practice forming letters and become familiar with the lowercase versions.<br />
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There is also connect the dot, which is always fun!</div>
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For reading I'll be starting him on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0972860312/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0972860312&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">The Ordinary Parent's Guide to Teaching Reading</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0972860312" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> soon. He already recognizes several short words and is just starting to show interest in sounding out letters, so it is a good time to begin.<br />
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I also have been printing off free worksheets for him from <a href="http://www.schoolsparks.com/kindergarten-worksheets" target="_blank">School Sparks</a>. He thinks they are <i>awesome</i>.</div>
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Besides the above, there is no other "formal" schooling I'm doing with him. His interests right now are mainly in building Legos and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CIXVITO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00CIXVITO&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Snap Circuits</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00CIXVITO" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />, which is fine with me. :)</div>
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If you homeschool, what are you doing this year? Feel free to share your blog post here if you have one!<br />
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Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-32616712247745821182013-06-12T12:50:00.001-06:002013-06-12T12:50:15.264-06:00Fast Fixin' Rolls<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xGHtqWuGPkw/UbiwlmSvYqI/AAAAAAAABf4/RUjgOzJCenY/s1600/fastfixinrolls.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xGHtqWuGPkw/UbiwlmSvYqI/AAAAAAAABf4/RUjgOzJCenY/s640/fastfixinrolls.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm not the greatest meal planner.<br />
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Oh, I've been to all those beautiful mommy blogs with their unbelievably clever organizational tips. I have the charts, the weekly lists, the beautifully pink "homemaking binder." Sometimes I even open it. <i>Sometimes I even fill the charts out.</i><br />
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But, most weeks?<br />
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Not a chance. <br />
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Maybe some day - like when the kids are grown and gone - I'll be a homemaker extraordinaire. Maybe. Meanwhile, we make it by with the lists and ideas I have rambling around in my head. This usually works fine, I promise. Unless it's those VERY (very) infrequent times where afternoon hits and I realize I only have some green beans to go with the chicken...<br />
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What to do?!<br />
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I make these rolls, of course! :)<br />
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They are relatively fast and they're homemade, so they make me look like Mom the Hero instead of "Mom who only has green beans to serve with dinner." (Having only one side dish is akin to child abuse in the mind of my oldest daughter...)<br />
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They can make you look like a hero, too.<br />
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Recipe: Fast Fixin' Rolls</span></span></i></b><br />
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Ingredients:<br />
<ul>
<li>1 C milk (I prefer whole)</li>
<li>1 Tbsp yeast</li>
<li>1 tsp sugar</li>
<li>1/4 C warm water (110-120 degrees)</li>
<li>1/2 stick butter</li>
<li>4 Tbsp sugar</li>
<li>1 large egg (if you don't have an egg, try a heaping spoonful of mayonnaise - I did once and it turned out fine)</li>
<li>1 tsp salt</li>
<li>3 to 3 1/2 C all purpose flour</li>
</ul>
Directions:<br />
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Scald the milk in a saucepan (bring just to boiling), then turn off heat and let cool.<br />
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In your electric stand mixer bowl combine the yeast, 1 tsp sugar, and warm water. Stir and let sit until foamy, about 5-10 minutes. Then add the cooled milk, butter, 4 Tbsp sugar, egg, and salt. Mix for 2 minutes on medium-low speed.<br />
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Begin adding flour slowly, 1 C at a time. Mix at medium speed for about 5 minutes and dough has come away from the sides of the bowl.<br />
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Place dough in a greased, medium sized bowl, cover, and let rise for one hour.<br />
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Punch down the dough, form 12 balls and place in a buttered 9x13 pan. Cover loosely with a cotton towel and let rise another hour. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees.<br />
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After rising the rolls should look like this:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ynRb9koJeqk/Ubiwk8SqWeI/AAAAAAAABfs/alpG11JZPr8/s1600/IMG_1065.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ynRb9koJeqk/Ubiwk8SqWeI/AAAAAAAABfs/alpG11JZPr8/s640/IMG_1065.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Pop these beauties straight into the oven for 15-20 min or until desired doneness. I had to cook mine a bit longer because they were still a little dough-like in the middle.<br />
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If you prefer, you can sprinkle with coarse sea salt and/or herbs before baking. Delicious.<br />
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Slather with butter after removing from the oven, and serve hot!<br />
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Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-71731257803332011252013-06-11T17:23:00.000-06:002013-06-11T17:23:35.175-06:00Summer Refreshment: Cucumber Lemon Basil Water<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nhej8dxd6lU/Ubej4r-NYWI/AAAAAAAABfM/fQ4GhK_tTkU/s1600/IMG_1318.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nhej8dxd6lU/Ubej4r-NYWI/AAAAAAAABfM/fQ4GhK_tTkU/s640/IMG_1318.png" width="426" /> </a></div>
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This healthy, economical way to "dress up" water is the perfect refreshment to have sitting around on a hot day. Subtly flavored, it is a hit with kids and adults alike. My children think it's a treat when I place an icy pitcher of this on the table for dinner! When served in a glass pitcher the presentation of this unassuming recipe is suited for even the most elegant of dinner parties.</div>
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I personally like this flavored water because it's inexpensive, particularly when compared to buying flavored beverages at the grocery store. I almost always have cucumbers on hand since we love them so much, and lemons are a cheap way to add <i>oomph</i> to just about anything...so they're usually kicking around the fridge as well! I have a basil plant in my kitchen window, but the best part of this recipe is that you can use a lot of different herbs you may just happen to have around for other dishes. Mint is absolutely lovely.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PWEM061N8fo/UbexIWT4WGI/AAAAAAAABfc/cZ71nDkTnmQ/s1600/IMG_1320.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PWEM061N8fo/UbexIWT4WGI/AAAAAAAABfc/cZ71nDkTnmQ/s640/IMG_1320.png" width="449" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Recipe: Cucumber Lemon Basil Water</b></span></span></i><br />
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<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Large pitcher</li>
<li>1/2 Lemon, washed and sliced</li>
<li>1/2 Cucumber, washed and sliced </li>
<li>Large handful basil (or other herb)</li>
<li>Water</li>
<li>Ice (optional)</li>
</ul>
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<b>Directions:</b><br />
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Place the lemon, cucumber, and basil in the bottom of your large pitcher. (If using a 'tougher' herb like mint, gently crush with a wooden spoon to help release flavor. Basil is delicate and will bruise, which won't affect flavor but beware that it will not look as appetizing.) Fill with water, and let steep in the fridge for an hour or two before serving. When ready to drink, pour over ice and enjoy!<br />
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<br />Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-6574332314359226312013-05-02T16:38:00.006-06:002013-05-02T16:38:42.587-06:00So You Want To Be A Stay-At-Home Mom (Or Dad)? Perhaps the better question that we're all asking is, "Can I AFFORD to be a stay-at-home mom or dad?" To make it as a family living off one income in this culture of what I would describe as "hyper-materialist" is no easy feat. So many mothers, especially, long to be able to be home with their children -- yet they are told by the media, peers, and perhaps even their pastors, parents or spouse that to support a family in this day and age a two-income home is the only responsible option.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0_zbesDmGOQ/UYLdHkG2bhI/AAAAAAAABdM/v-uFN_mTTHE/s1600/IMG_1460.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="363" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0_zbesDmGOQ/UYLdHkG2bhI/AAAAAAAABdM/v-uFN_mTTHE/s400/IMG_1460.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our humble abode</td></tr>
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Sadly, I have heard of too many women who have been verbally chastised and bullied by the people closest to them for their desire to choose to stay at home (the irony of the feminist mantra of "choice" should not be lost here). My own experience has been one of suffering, with friends and family both directly and indirectly voicing their displeasure at my desire to be "just" a housewife and "just" a stay-at-home-mom. I know about the painful assumptions people make toward women (and some men too, I'm sure) in this arena because I, too, have endured them. We are implicated in being lazy, lacking motivation, irresponsible, unwilling to contribute to the family, freeloaders, and non-functioning members of society. The accusations sound exaggerated, but I assure you they are not.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I want moms and dads to know that a stay-at-home parent, far from being a burden and a freeloader, is a significant blessing to the family <i>and</i> to greater society. The goal of this post is not to enumerate all the ways we benefit from this model of life so I won't spend time going into detail, but if one feels the pull to stay at home to raise their children you should be encouraged that it is a noble undertaking that requires hard work, enormous responsibility and makes countless contributions to the family.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KoBaBOUEk7w/UYLhfZtOBCI/AAAAAAAABdw/aRBsajv9mu8/s1600/mommymary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KoBaBOUEk7w/UYLhfZtOBCI/AAAAAAAABdw/aRBsajv9mu8/s400/mommymary.jpg" width="293" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Catching a rare moment of rest with my third</td></tr>
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But, you ask, can a family really financially survive if only one parent works? My answer is yes, in most cases. A lot of it does depend on the income you'll be relying on. We are a family of five living off an income just slightly higher than the national median income of $40k. I know some families who are able to live off half that because of prudent budgeting and major sacrifice. They want to make it work, and so they do.<br />
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Sometimes there are situations where both parents <i>must</i> find work outside the home in order to make enough money to put food on the table and pay the utility bills. This is indisputable. Only you can be the true judge of your financial situation. Yet I really do think there's a stronghold of confusion regarding what makes it "necessary" that both parents have to enter the public workplace. All too often the average American family sacrifices a full-time parent for their children because they have been persuaded to believe that they "need" to live in that newly built 3000 square foot house, "need" to eat out often, "need" to take major vacations every year, "need" to furnish their home with the latest in furniture and knick knacks, "need" to drive a brand new car, "need" to wear designer clothing, "need" to own all the latest electronic gadgets, "need" to wear makeup and jewelry, "need" to have a gym membership/home gym, "need" to throw big parties every weekend, and on and on...<br />
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To afford to be a SAHM or SAHD requires going against the grain of the hyper-materialist culture, this can't be denied. But, to be cliche, where there is a will there is usually a way -- and the resulting benefits are great. Here's some ideas, gleaned from my own experience, on how to live in such a way that leaves room for mommy or even daddy to raise those beloved children and manage the home front full-time. I hope they help you!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1. Eat and drink simply</span></b><br />
Eating adequately - and healthily - should not be compromised simply for the sake of tightening down the monthly budget. On the other hand, there's a lot of ways to feed the family nutritious, full meals while also significantly reducing the food bill.<br />
<ul>
<li>To eat well AND frugally, you will need to be OK with eating "real," whole foods and staying away from the processed food aisles. Processed, packaged foods are significantly more expensive than the real thing. And yes, your children will be just fine without fruit gummies and those strange Gerber mini hot dogs. I promise!</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Whether it's breakfast, lunch or dinner, serve your family simple, basic meals. The fewer ingredients that go into a dish, the more economical it is. You don't need to serve five different things or prepare fancy main dishes that have an ingredient list 10 or 15 items deep.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Drink little - or no - alcohol and soda. These can ratchet up your grocery bill <i>fast</i> and they're nutritionally empty. If you're wanting to stay at home and you need to count your pennies, this is an easy choice to make. Fresh vegetables for the week or a bottle of wine? You be the judge.</li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4GOLVfq8sRw/UYLe-9H6nBI/AAAAAAAABdc/FMTXcZCRIQ4/s1600/IMG_6930.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4GOLVfq8sRw/UYLe-9H6nBI/AAAAAAAABdc/FMTXcZCRIQ4/s400/IMG_6930.png" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prepping our garden :)</td></tr>
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<li>Make what you can at home (like <a href="http://domesticityanddoctrine.blogspot.com/2012/10/the-best-no-knead-no-fuss-artisan-bread.html" target="_blank">homemade bread</a>) and grow what you're able. We have a very small yard and a short growing season so my gardening abilities are limited, but even in my small raised bed I am able to grow tomatoes, peas, zucchini, carrots, lettuces, herbs, and the like. If you have the ability to garden (and better yet, learn the art of canning), it will save you major $ at the grocery store.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>You don't need to "extreme coupon" in order to make ends meet. The best way I've found to buy cheaply is to shop only what's truly on sale (be aware that stores do try to trick you by putting big 'for sale' signs on items that are only a meager 10 or 20 cents off) and be willing to buy store brands. Yes, it may taste different from what you're used to, but in most cases the difference is insignificant and you can learn to adjust. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Lastly, the no-brainer: <i>don't eat out</i>. If you do, only go for very special occasions or when you have a gift card. Even a meal for two at a casual chain restaurant can run you $30 a pop. If you have a $400 monthly food budget, you've just blown almost half a week's worth of food money for the entire family on one meal.</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WGZA_ElRUTs/UYLkuYeY6pI/AAAAAAAABeA/44FgWxCSK04/s1600/IMG_4556.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WGZA_ElRUTs/UYLkuYeY6pI/AAAAAAAABeA/44FgWxCSK04/s400/IMG_4556.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The extent of my couponing success...</td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2. Refuse all opportunities to acquire debt</span></b><br />
There is no end to the "opportunities" the culture presents to us to go into debt. The biggest one almost everyone gets reigned into is a car payment. Families can end up shelling out $300, $400, $500 <i>or more</i> a month on one car ALONE. If you have two cars, as most do, that figure doubles. People may tell you "car payments are a way of life," but don't buy into it. With proper budgeting and planning, you can buy an adequate used car with cash and save yourself thousands and thousands of dollars. If you already have a car payment, do whatever you can to pay it off, even if it means selling the car and buying something you can afford with the resulting cash. With an extra $400 or even $800 in your pocket each month, stay-at-home parenting becomes a much easier way of life.<br />
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<i>Other "debt opportunities" to avoid</i>: financing furniture, appliances, and luxury items (aka: 50" LCD flat screen TVs or treadmills). Save up and pay cash or do without. It is my belief that debt is never, ever worth it with the exception of perhaps a home mortgage.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LT0g2fEhVNo/UYLpaVI4m_I/AAAAAAAABe0/lFfNYtkpc5g/s1600/IMG_3458.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="226" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LT0g2fEhVNo/UYLpaVI4m_I/AAAAAAAABe0/lFfNYtkpc5g/s400/IMG_3458.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our minivan, which is finally paid in<i> full </i></td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3. Go without Bowser and Muffy</span></b><br />
Here in the U.S. pets sap up the most of our discretionary income. We spent<i> $53 billion</i> on them last year alone! If you didn't have to spend money on veterinary bills, dog food, and pet toys could you afford to stay home and raise your children yourself? It's a question we must ask ourselves. What comes first: pets or children?<br />
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If you're Catholic, we should think soberly on <a href="http://domesticityanddoctrine.blogspot.com/2013/04/imitatejesuspopefrancis.html" target="_blank">the blunt words of Pope Francis</a> (spoken shortly before he was elected): "On those things that are not necessities, or superfluous things, the greatest amount is spent on pets. The most unnecessary spending is made on pets. Pets are idolized... And the second largest amount of money is spent on cosmetology. Cosmetics. ...There are millions and millions spent on these two things. Meanwhile the Pope [Benedict XVI] is talking about children who are dying of hunger in underdeveloped continents like Africa, Asia and America. First come pets. And then if there is something left, we throw it to the children."<br />
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We gave up our cats when our second was a toddler. (You may have caught a glimpse of our old cat in the window in the first photo!) I felt guilty for weeks, but looking back it was one of the wisest decisions we've ever made.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4. Be green</span></b><br />
Going "green" does more than help the environment, it is a fabulous way to lessen the monthly expenses. Items like Pine Sol and 409 are dangerous for little explorers, bad for the environment and our health, and EXPENSIVE. I do 99% of my cleaning with vinegar and, occasionally, baking soda. Vinegar is so cheap - just pour into a plastic spray bottle and go. I also <a href="http://domesticityanddoctrine.blogspot.com/2012/10/fast-homemade-laundry-detergent.html" target="_blank">make my own laundry detergent</a>, which has been a significant cost-saver.<br />
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Beauty products are also a big money sap (especially cosmetics, as referenced above). They are not good for us either -- almost all commercially-made products are filled with chemicals. There are a few ways you can "go green" and save money. One is to make your own products with natural ingredients, like my <a href="http://domesticityanddoctrine.blogspot.com/2012/10/pretty-diy-face-powder.html" target="_blank">DIY Face Powder</a> or the <a href="http://domesticityanddoctrine.blogspot.com/2012/09/diy-lemon-sugar-face-wash.html" target="_blank">Lemon Sugar Facial Scrub</a>. Also ask yourself if you really need to be wearing makeup each day -- or at all.<br />
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I think in the U.S. especially we don't realize what a superfluous thing it is to use makeup. I've even heard American Christian women claim we must wear it to be a "wise woman" or a "good witness." This is just silly. Millions of devout and beautiful women around the world don't wear makeup nor can they afford to, and some of the most extraordinary female witnesses to the Christian faith never wore a dot of foundation or lipstick in their life. If you're hesitant about putting the blush and mascara aside, I challenge you to try it for just a day. If you can do that, do it for a few days. Try to go a week. It gets easier, and you'll get used to your "new you." You'll also get used to all the extra money you'll have in the bank account and the extra time you'll have each morning! I recently threw my makeup out and while it was hard at first (primarily because of my own pride and vanity), I now rarely even think about it.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">5. Make others' trash your treasure</span></b><br />
In other words, buy used. These days so many people get rid of perfectly good, almost-new items in order to make room for the "newest" and "best" that it's incredibly easy to buy used and still have nice things. For instance, I almost always buy used children's clothing and used books. There are great bargains to be had, especially if you check out local garage sales! I've had no problem finding stacks of like-new, name brand clothing at garage sales for as little as 50 cents a piece. The same goes for books. In addition to garage sales, keep an eye out for used book sales at your local library.<br />
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For baby items, consignment sales are usually a stay-at-home family's paradise -- I've bought like-new baby bouncers and diaper genies at a third of their original price!<br />
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Of course there's also Craigslist, Freecycle, thrift stores and, for new items at used prices, clearance racks at your favorite stores. I've always found fantastic deals on the Target clearance racks.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">6. Turn down that dial</span></b><br />
Energy costs can add a great deal of strain to a one-income family budget. The good news is that's pretty easy to manage: just turn down the dial!<br />
<ul>
<li>On your thermostat, set the temperature a degree or two lower than usual and put on a sweatshirt if you feel cool. At night consider a larger drop -- we set ours at 58 degrees this winter. I did it as an experiment, thinking we'd be too cold, but we haven't even noticed a difference! I'm still usually too warm at night, which is saying a lot considering I'm always accused of being the coldest person in the room. ;) We don't have air conditioning, but if you do consider doing the opposite: turn up the dial a notch or two so that it has to get warmer in order for the a/c to kick in. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Turn down your hot water heater to the lowest setting, usually 120 degrees. This is both a means of cutting costs and a safety measure to avoid scalding.</li>
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<li>Wash your clothes on cool or cold. I've tried this with my homemade detergent and it appears to work just as well. Using hot water for laundry is one of the biggest contributors to high energy bills!</li>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">7. Trim the fat</span></b><br />
By "fat" I mean the extra, unnecessary fluff taking up room on your monthly budget. These are things that sure are nice to have, but can, ultimately, be given up. What "fat" is on your budget?<br />
<ul>
<li>Cable TV? (hint: Netflix is a cheap alternative)</li>
<li>Movie theater money? </li>
<li>Magazine and newspaper subscriptions?</li>
<li>Memberships (for organizations, gyms, clubs, etc)?</li>
<li>Smart phone data package?</li>
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Most communities have free activities and events -- take advantage of them! Become a regular at the public library (where you can check out not only books but plenty of music and movies). Google search what periodical publications you can receive for free in subjects you're interested in and sign yourself up. If you want to exercise, take up walking around your neighborhood, on local trails or even at the mall. The things we think we "need" can often be satisfied with much less than we think.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">8. Downsize</span></b><br />
Just because you may live in a huge home now with an equally large mortgage payment doesn't mean you need to stay there (or upgrade). Oftentimes the most prudent thing we can do is live in a humbler home. If you've ever looked at older homes you'll notice that by and large they were much smaller, yet housed larger families! It's a rare family that "needs" a lot of square footage -- you can comfortably fit a lot of people in smaller home (if we're honest we must admit it's the <i>stuff</i> that doesn't fit). There's also another benefit to a smaller house: a closer family life!<br />
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Another option to consider is not owning a home at all. Not everyone needs to own a home, nor is it financially feasible to do so. In this market yes, you can find homes that will cost less per month than a rental...however home ownership carries with it a lot of extra costs. Whereas usually rental costs include utilities, maintenance, garbage and water, and even internet, home ownership requires you pay for all these yourself. Then there is the need to have home insurance, many places have HOA fees, and there are also unforeseen home repair costs. Sometimes if you have just one income to rely on, home ownership isn't always the best choice. (If you do buy a home in today's market, make sure you have a large down payment and it's a place you plan on staying in for the long term.)<br />
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Lastly, a very cost-effective move is to license and maintain just one car. Not everyone is willing to live that way, especially with the sprawl of many communities that make it impossible to get anywhere without motorized transportation, but it is an option -- even if only for the short term. Huge sacrifice? Definitely. But if it comes down to that or putting your kids in daycare so you can work to afford the costs of having a second car, it seems like a sacrifice worth making.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">9. Travel lite</span></b><br />
Traveling is fun, believe me I sympathize! There's nothing I enjoy more than a vacation. I love traveling and seeing new places. However, unless the one-income your family is relying on is a hefty one (in which case you probably don't need to be reading this list to begin with!), taking frequent vacations is going to have to go. If your family is itching for a break from routine, do a "staycation" or a day trip. If you're Catholic, visit a neighboring town's parish -- or the diocese cathedral - as a sort of "mini pilgrimage." <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x7cDfwZjwCg/UYLobz4TF6I/AAAAAAAABek/lXcYq5oDnQA/s1600/IMG_0672.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x7cDfwZjwCg/UYLobz4TF6I/AAAAAAAABek/lXcYq5oDnQA/s400/IMG_0672.png" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gorgeous cathedral in our diocese</td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">10. Quit the shopping habit</span></b><br />
Contrary to popular belief, this is not just a message for women! Men can be just as "addicted" to shopping, they simply buy different things than their female counterparts. Whether it's new high heels, decor for the house, tools, or car parts, the shopping habit needs to be broken. To live off one income requires great discipline in spending habits -- the family has to be committed to only buying what they need, they must break the "I gotta have this!" mindset, and they have to choose to be frugal with gift giving. Our kids don't need $200 worth of presents on their birthdays, and either do we.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2o33cLoORIY/UYLmXstuLKI/AAAAAAAABeM/VQ0LNSpirc0/s1600/IMG_4678.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2o33cLoORIY/UYLmXstuLKI/AAAAAAAABeM/VQ0LNSpirc0/s320/IMG_4678.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TOO much stuff...!<br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y01iDLUTHUI/UYLm-YVebiI/AAAAAAAABec/4n0KGAKQKrc/s1600/IMG_4680.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y01iDLUTHUI/UYLm-YVebiI/AAAAAAAABec/4n0KGAKQKrc/s320/IMG_4680.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Less IS more.</td></tr>
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No, it <i>isn't</i> as much "fun." The money isn't there to throw around as easily as it may be with two incomes. But, in the end, we can't take our things with us. What will endure into eternity is the time we had with the people we loved. Choosing our family over our stuff is a choice that will not go unrewarded -- in this life <i>and</i> the next.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZeywZi-oebo/UYLb9J11RrI/AAAAAAAABc8/__gGog520fI/s1600/IMG_1101.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="488" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZeywZi-oebo/UYLb9J11RrI/AAAAAAAABc8/__gGog520fI/s640/IMG_1101.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beauties with whom I'm blessed to spend my days!</td></tr>
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Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-54028965550165764262013-04-02T16:37:00.000-06:002013-04-02T16:39:27.640-06:00Imitating the Pilgrim Witness of Jesus and Pope Francis<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"At his last breath the multimillionaire is just as penniless as the dying beggar in a Calcutta street."</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Thomas Dubay, <u>Happy Are You Poor</u></span></i></div>
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What the Church desperately needs today is for its followers to give authentic witness to the truths of the Gospel. Over Lent, we were profoundly blessed by God to be given another simple, loving man with deep personal holiness to help us as our <i>Papa</i>: Pope Francis. His namesake, St. Francis of Assisi, being one of the most remarkable Christian men of all time -- remembered for his love, purity, peace, and of course, poverty.<br />
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By all accounts Pope Francis embodies what it means to walk in the spirit of evangelical poverty that Jesus calls His followers to embrace, that Francis of Assisi lived, and that Thomas Dubay outlines in his book, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0898709210/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0898709210&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20%22%3EHappy%20Are%20You%20Poor%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0898709210%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank">Happy Are You Poor</a>. Catholics all over the world are thrilled with his simplicity and embrace of only the bare minimum to sustain himself and do his job. I, too, am so very encouraged and enlivened by his example! I eagerly look forward to all that God will say and do through him.<br />
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But -- and I have no doubt Pope Francis would agree -- our admiration is not useful unless <i>we, too, follow his example</i> in our daily lives. It is imperative for us as professing Catholic Christians not simply to stop at lauding the humility of a Pope, declaring what a great message he is giving to the Church at large, and hoping that more bishops and priests follow his example. Those sentiments are understandable, yes! But after we have done those things, we must go take the next step. We must pause to consider what Jesus Christ is saying to us personally through this man we consider our appointed shepherd and spiritual father. Can we in good conscience nod our heads in approval, call for others within the Church to imitate him, and then continue to spend large sums of our own money (or money we don't even have!) on acquiring fancier homes and cars, the latest in fashionable home decor, the newest electronics, artificial tans and wrinkle creams, toys/gear/supplies for our numerous hobbies, and the like?<br />
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Dubay's chapter entitled Pilgrim Witness opens up with this:<br />
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<i>"<b>There is much in Scripture to which a theist has little difficulty in giving theoretical assent but to which in concrete daily life he grants almost no assent at all.</b> No convinced theist has any problem in admitting that idle talk is reprehensible for several reasons, one of which is that it impedes the biblical call to continual prayer. But in daily living few give any thought at all to the problem of continual chatter and the account we are to render of it on Judgement Day (Mt. 12:36).</i> </blockquote>
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<i>Most of us have heard over and over in liturgical readings the admonition of Jesus that we must give up all that we possess to be his disciples (Lk. 14:33), but few in the humdrum of the day-by-day round even advert to detachment, let alone practice it with any approximation of totality." [p. 81]</i></blockquote>
We have a particular problem here in the United States with the dominant value of our culture being economic: "the American dream" and "the good life" being two popular phrases where obtaining wealth and the indiscriminate spending of that wealth is the unsaid principle. For the Christian this should pose a serious dilemma, as this ideology flies in the face of the entire Gospel ideal. But the value of the economic "good life" is so pervasive that the ordinary American Christian has become utterly desensitized to Jesus' call to "give up all that we possess." We have been lulled to sleep -- by our education system, the media, our peers, sadly even our own family members and churches -- and we've convincingly assured ourselves that we can arrange our lives around the things of the world (possessions and pleasure seeking) and yet still have all the treasures of heaven added on to us as well. <br />
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Dubay relates a specific excellent example about how the underlying economic ideal forms our decisions as Christians:<br />
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<i>At Mass one Sunday morning in October a serious, deeply religious couple hear that the following week there is going to be a collection for the foreign missions. As they drive home Mrs. Jones is likely to say, "Bill, do you think we could afford something like $20 or $30 for this collection?" After some musing Mr. Jones may well respond that he, too, thinks they could afford that amount as their contribution. <b>While most would indeed consider Mr. and Mrs. Jones a generous couple, we must note something significant. When both of them used the expression "we could afford", they meant "without changing significantly our level of consuming."</b> They did not mean "we could afford $20 or $30 if we dine out less frequently or give up smoking and cocktails, or if we cancel our vacation trip, or sell one of our sports cars." </i></blockquote>
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<i>Even in serious people the good life ideology is operative, and it profoundly influences what they do and do not do on the operational level. If Mr. and Mrs. Jones were to give up the good life ideal, they could give far more to the foreign missions. [p. 84]</i></blockquote>
Ethicist Richard McCormick wrote something similar: "It can be argued that the single dominating and organizing value in American culture is economic... This means that other values will be pursued and promoted only within this overriding priority. <b>Thus, justice in education, housing, medical services, job opportunity is promoted within the dominance of the financial criterion -- 'if we can afford it', where 'afford' refers to the retention of a high level of consumership</b>."<br />
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As Christians we are told plainly that we're merely pilgrims in this world (1 Peter 2:11, Heb 11:13-16), but we rarely live as if that's our reality. "We assume that we belong here, that this is our fatherland, that our security is enhanced by a higher salary, a paid-up mortgage, and adequate coverage by insurance," writes Dubay. We need to rediscover the great freedom and joy that we are offered in Christ when we <i>arrange our daily living</i> like pilgrims! We need it not only for our own souls, but for the sake of the conversion of the world -- a world that desperately needs and even desires to discover authentic pilgrim witnesses.<br />
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Dubay said in his book that the world and those of us in the world need "lived prophecy." Indeed. The lived prophecy has to be spoken through <i>each</i> of us, whatever our state in life, not just through our dear Pope, our parish priest, and some monks and nuns living in the cloister.<br />
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Before Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio became Pope Francis he gave an interview where he spoke on some very relevant points pertaining to this consumerist idolatry that threatens so many of us in our quest for God. I want to end with a few of his quotes (and please, listen to the entire interview -- it's fantastic):<br />
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"In today's society new idols are continuously established and driven by consumerism... There is where people get hooked. Indeed there is a strong need to renew the faith."<br />
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"Only Jesus provides the answer to this rampant idolatry. And he reigns from the Cross. If we deny the Cross of Jesus, we deny Jesus."<br />
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"An interesting fact is the amount spent on non-necessities world wide... On those things that are not necessities, or superfluous things, the greatest amount is spent on pets. The most unnecessary spending is made on pets. Pets are idolized... And the second largest amount of money is spent on cosmetology. Cosmetics. ...There are millions and millions spent on these two things. Meanwhile the Pope is talking about children who are dying of hunger in underdeveloped continents like Africa, Asia and America. First come pets. And then if there is something left, we throw it to the children."<br />
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"If you don't worship God, you will have something else. I don't know which one: A pet. Cosmetics. I don't know."<br />
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(Last year in the United States<i> alone</i>, <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2013/02/22/pet-spending-2013/1940055/" target="_blank">over $53 billion</a> was spent on pets and at least <a href="http://www.smartmoney.com/spend/family-money/10-things-the-beauty-industry-wont-tell-you-1303249279432/" target="_blank">$33 billion</a> on cosmetics.)<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">This post is part of a continuing series of posts on the book <u>Happy Are You Poor</u>. <a href="http://domesticityanddoctrine.blogspot.com/2013/01/happyareyoupoorfrthomasdubay.html" target="_blank">Go here</a> for the first post of the series!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-3169491779376478482013-02-05T15:24:00.000-07:002013-04-01T14:59:07.075-06:00A Sparing-Sharing Lifestyle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In this <a href="http://domesticityanddoctrine.blogspot.com/2013/01/what-gospel-poverty-is-not.html" target="_blank">continuing</a> <a href="http://domesticityanddoctrine.blogspot.com/2013/01/happyareyoupoorfrthomasdubay.html" target="_blank">series</a> I last touched on the <a href="http://domesticityanddoctrine.blogspot.com/2013/02/the-point-of-choosing-poverty.html" target="_blank">underlying point</a> of living a factually "frugal" or "poor" lifestyle (what the author frequently refers to as Gospel poverty). This entry will be relatively brief, as I'm only going to give some highlights from the chapter "A Sparing-Sharing Lifestyle." I encourage you to <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0898709210/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0898709210&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20" target="_blank">get a copy</a> for yourself because Thomas Dubay makes so many wonderful points that I couldn't possibly relate them all here!</div>
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<i>"Biblical writers were not philosophers, but they knew well enough that <b>material sharing is a consequence of any sincere love</b>. If the goods of earth are extensions of my person and if I love my neighbor as myself, I naturally share my good things. It is idle for me to proclaim concern for the poor, the homeless, for example, and at the same time indulge in elegant dining and drinking, pleasure traveling, and an extensive wardrobe. My life belies my rhetoric... If I am to love my fellowman as myself,<b> it must follow that I desire that his needs be cared for at least as well as I care for mine.</b>" [p. 65]</i></blockquote>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cbzJuHZXuPc/UJBcgB0Hn6I/AAAAAAAABto/xnXb0J80V7k/s1600/MOTHER+TERESA+FEEDING+A+POOR+BOY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="226" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cbzJuHZXuPc/UJBcgB0Hn6I/AAAAAAAABto/xnXb0J80V7k/s320/MOTHER+TERESA+FEEDING+A+POOR+BOY.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blessed Mother Teresa</td></tr>
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<i>"The contemporary teaching Church has made the point more than once that it is not enough to give of our superfluities to the needy of our world. We are to give even from <b>our</b> <b>need</b>." [p. 67]</i></blockquote>
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<i>"A sharing manner of life is not optional. <b>Creation belongs to all members of the human race, not mainly to the clever, intelligent, resourceful, well born.</b> Sheer justice demands equitable participation. Pope Paul VI cited Saint Ambrose when he said, 'You are not making a gift of your possessions to the poor person. <b>You are handing over to him what is his.</b> For what has been given in common for the use of all you have arrogated to yourself. The world is given to all and not only to the rich.'" [p. 68]</i></blockquote>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Louis, King of France, serving the poor</td></tr>
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<i> "A word of caution. In all our enthusiasm for the alleviation of the plight of the poor we are well advised to avoid the basic atheistic thesis that material destitution is the greatest of all evils... Social injustice is evil, no doubt. <b>But there is a far greater evil, namely, that of not seeking God</b>... They of the largest minds, <b>the saints, have lived heroically the sparing-sharing life of the Gospels, while at the same time they first of all sought eternal life both for themselves and for others</b>." [p. 68-69]</i></blockquote>
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<i>"Some, like Saint John the Baptist de la Salle, lived the message of this volume in a simple direct manner: they literally sold all they owned and gave the proceeds to the poor. Others responded to the Gospel after the manner of Blessed Louisa Albertoni, who, after her husband died, lived in deepest personal poverty and prayer. This woman expended her entire fortune in behalf of the needy to the point that she had nothing left, and she herself lived on alms. <b>Louisa had a unique way of getting rid of her wealth. She would bake huge batches of bread, put gold and silver coins in the loaves, and then distribute them to the poor.</b>" [p. 69]</i></blockquote>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.roman-catholic-saints.com/images/BlLuisaAlbertoni.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.roman-catholic-saints.com/images/BlLuisaAlbertoni.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blessed Louisa Albertoni</td></tr>
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<i>"While he was still a layman Saint Peter Damian not only gave directly to the needy but also <b>often invited them to his own table</b> and served them with his own hands. Saint Paulinus of Nola and his wife used their wealth for sundry religious and philanthropic exercises, but they also supported a large number of poor debtors, itinerants, and other needy people. <b>Many of these they lodged in the lower section of their own house</b>." [p. 69]</i></blockquote>
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<i>"Austere and hard on themselves, the saints are customarily indulgent and even tender with the ill and unfortunate. Saint Paschal Baylon, who as a layman went barefooted, ate meagerly and fasted often, yet <b>went to the trouble of obtaining delicacies for the sick and needy</b>. Saint Teresa of Avila mentioned in one of her letters that she commonly gave away to others the candies and other niceties she received." [p.71-72]</i></blockquote>
<br />Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-46157912722179005392013-02-04T16:16:00.000-07:002013-04-01T14:59:26.132-06:00The Point of Choosing Poverty<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Thus far in this book series I've shared briefly about <a href="http://domesticityanddoctrine.blogspot.com/2013/01/happyareyoupoorfrthomasdubay.html" target="_blank">who is intended</a> to embrace evangelical poverty, as well as what Gospel poverty <a href="http://domesticityanddoctrine.blogspot.com/2013/01/what-gospel-poverty-is-not.html" target="_blank">is not</a>. Thomas Dubay's sixth chapter in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0898709210/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0898709210&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Happy Are You Poor: The Simple Life and Spiritual Freedom</a> is titled "Emptiness and Radical Readiness" -- but I think it could be best summed up as "What is the point?"<br />
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It's a valid question. Yes, the Scriptures are undeniably clear in their "hard sayings about the incompatibility of riches and the kingdom." Over and over again we read that,<br />
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<i>"it is easier for a camel to pass through a needle's eye <b>than for a rich man to enter God's kingdom</b> (Mk 10:25 and parallels)... The rich man who does not share with the beggar Lazarus at his gate ends up in hell, for <b>he had his comfort in this life</b> (Lk 16:19-31). <b>No one can serve two masters</b>; he must take his pick: God or money; he cannot have both (Mt 6:24). <b>The word of God is smothered, choked, and does not reach maturity in people who succumb to cares, pleasures, and wealth</b> (Lk 8:14 and parallels). <b>We are to avoid avarice in all its forms</b>, for there is no security in finite things even when we have an abundance of them (Lk 12:15). "<b>Woe to the wealthy</b>" is Jesus' proclamation to the rich, for they have their consolation now (Lk 6:24). <b>We are not to lay up treasures on earth</b> where moths and rust corrode and thieves steal...(Mt 6:19-21)." [p. 55]</i></blockquote>
But while the proclamation to live a different way of life than human reason dictates is obvious, sometimes the understanding of <i>why</i> is not so clear to us. Dubay observes that, "Sensible people do not choose emptiness for the sake of emptiness. Of itself negation has no value... The value of negative things derives, must derive, from something positive, something they make possible."<br />
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Therefore we can reasonably conclude that embracing Gospel/evangelical/factual poverty, itself a mere negation or not having, actually is so highly commended in the Bible because of <b>what it makes possible</b>. <br />
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<u>The primary thing factual poverty makes possible is a readiness for the kingdom</u>.<br />
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<i>"Factual poverty embraced in faith does something to a person in the deep resources of his being.<b> It matures him, develops him, makes him receptive to what the Lord Jesus is about</b>... One who is poor in and for the Lord is concretely affected by the Gospel... It brings about a felt sensitivity to what the Lord Jesus is all about. It helps dissolve opaqueness, dullness, resistance to the word of God." [p. 56-57]</i></blockquote>
It goes without even saying (though I will say it anyway because I think it is that important) that the values of God and the values of the world are very much radically opposed. Everything the world esteems and persuades us to chase is 180 degrees removed from that which God cherishes and finds delightful. Most of us, somehow, have had our souls calloused by the bombardment of mainstream media and entertainment, worldly friends and coworkers, and at times even the influence of our own family.<br />
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As Dubay points out, one not even go further than an innocent reading of the morning newspaper in order to find the messages that are so alien to Christianity. We all know them (and perhaps have even fallen victim to them, assuming they are compatible with our love of God):<br />
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<i>"Prestige is a primary value...bodily comfort and pleasure are indispensable...this life is all we have, so let's enjoy it to the full...impressing people with one's possessions and accomplishments and attractiveness is important...sexual excitement and satisfaction are crucial...success is "coming out on top" in relation to to others...money is a must, for without it one can have very little of anything else worth having in life." [p. 57]</i></blockquote>
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Just take a moment to compare these premises to those found in the New Testament:<br />
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<i>"Humility, being last, unknown, hidden in Christ, is a condition for getting into the kingdom...prestige is worthless and even an obstacle to greatness...the hard road and the narrow gate, carrying the cross every day is immensely important...dying to our selfishness and crucifying our illusory desires are indispensable...impressing people is of no importance at all, whereas being pleasing to the divine eyes is everything...virginity is a favored and privileged state, and chaste fidelity in marriage mirrors the very union of Christ and his Church...one may not try to best others; rather he is to serve them as though he were a slave...it is most difficult, indeed it is humanly impossible, for the wealthy to enter the kingdom of heaven." [p. 57-58] </i></blockquote>
The difference is remarkable! And so it is not difficult to see, then, that the majority of us -- weakened by our concupiscence and having to live within the world to obtain an education, conduct business, and/or raise our families -- are not always going to be readily disposed to the things of God. Some of us have more receptivity and readiness than others (see the <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2013:1-23&version=NRSVCE" target="_blank">Parable of the Sower</a>), but the fact remains that there is still work to be done to till the soil in us that makes us inhospitable to God's seeds of truth. Gospel poverty does that for us.<br />
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I love when Dubay demonstrates the necessity of detachment from material possessions in order to be truly free to love God. He says that, "for us wounded human beings, <b>possessing imperceptibly slips into being possessed</b>. No sooner do I have a watch of some quality than I begin to be reluctant to part with it even if someone needs it more than I do." This is dangerously accurate, is it not? We purchase a brand new, top of the line TV, or that cute scarf we've had our eye on over at Etsy, and in a very real sense we begin morphing into <a href="http://lotr.wikia.com/wiki/Gollum" target="_blank">Gollum</a> from the <i>Lord of the Rings</i>. Our objects become our "precious" and we aren't even willing to <i>entertain</i> the possibility of giving them away and doing without -- much less with a cheerful, generous and peaceful attitude! It's not until the next eagerly desired possession comes along -- one that is no doubt newer and lovelier -- that we become willing to part with it.<br />
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Dubay continues, "This means that <i>it</i>, a mere thing, has taken a hold on my heart. Having wealth is damaging to the pursuit of the kingdom because <b>the very having</b> does something to one's inner life, one's very ability to love God for his own goodness and others in and for him."<br />
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The "very having" he talks about is a deceptive and insidious disease that can quickly and efficiently lead to our damnation. The reason Jesus made the point that it is easier for a camel to enter the eye of a needle than a rich man to enter heaven is that the person with wealth is literally "<b>blinded</b> by his clingings. He not only does not do what he ought to do with his wealth, <b>he does not even see what he ought to do</b>. To him it is obvious that his barns bursting with crops are to be used for his own pleasure: eat, drink, make merry, take things easy (Lk 12:16-21). It does not <b>occur</b> to him that this abundance should be shared with the downtrodden."<br />
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Jesus Christ has made clear that the only remedy for the blindness is a casting off our superfluous goods; we must embrace the evangelical notion of poverty described to us in the Bible and demonstrated to us via the lives of the Saints.<br />
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You will not find this message from mainstream sources. Even popular Christian-based financial gurus are not reliable sources of advice for biblical living. Take for instance the highly-acclaimed message of Dave Ramsey, whose plan to get out of debt has been immensely helpful to my husband and I. Many of his recommendations are excellent, particularly in helping people arrange their spending in a way that gets them out of debt and helps them stay out of debt. However, on the other hand, the totality of his message and his example is definitely not one of Gospel poverty.<br />
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We as Christians are nowhere advised to have the goal of accumulating wealth, living like "no one else" (aka: sacrificially) so that later we can "live like no one else" (aka: grandly). Neither is it ever indicated that we should have the goal of accumulating wealth <i>in order to</i> give to -- or, to use modern church speak -- "bless" others. You will not find one Saint in the record books that operated by this standard -- in fact, just the opposite is true. They did not work toward becoming wealthy; rather, they took whatever wealth they had and distributed it to others so that they themselves subsisted on very little.<br />
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This is true even of those devout men and women who lived in the world and were not professed religious who had taken a vow of poverty. They wisely provided for their family until a time came where they could renounce material goods fully, with provision indicating food, shelter, clothing, basic household goods and - if able - quality spiritual books and education. (In modern terms, provision does NOT mean giving children elaborately decorated rooms filled with expensive diversions while mom and dad work towards a fancier home, sportier cars, lovelier furniture, newer "toys," bigger wardrobes, elegant food, superfluous entertainments, or pampered vacations.)<br />
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The example of the Saints' piety is not for us to praise but then claim impossible for ourselves. We are ALL expected to make our entire life "the sacrifice" -- the time to "play" will come in the next life, where riches and possessions will be obsolete and we'll find our indescribable, glorious pleasure in <b>one thing alone</b>: the Lord our God.<br />
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If we don't have the sensitivity to see the exquisite treasure of this eternal destiny, we should examine ourselves: has our desire for pleasure in this life dulled, or, God forbid, replaced our desire for Jesus Christ?<br />
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<br />Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-1243076700074430082013-01-29T22:07:00.001-07:002013-04-01T14:59:59.874-06:00What Gospel Poverty is NOT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://domesticityanddoctrine.blogspot.com/2013/01/happyareyoupoorfrthomasdubay.html" target="_blank">Continuing</a> with my reading of Thomas Dubay's book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0898709210/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0898709210&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Happy Are You Poor: The Simple Life and Spiritual Freedom</a>, I wanted to touch on his chapter about what does not characterize Gospel poverty. He makes nine points (quotes are directly from the book):<br />
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1. <b>Filth, carelessness, laziness, disorder</b><br />
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Living in squalor with counters full of last week's dirty dishes and old, broken items littered about the yard is not living the Gospel poverty ideal. "From seeing in the mass media so frequently the coexistence of filth and poverty, we easily infer an inner connection between them. There is no basis in the New Testament for this connection."</blockquote>
2. <b>Destitution</b><br />
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Rather than compel us to live without the very basic necessities (clothing, food, shelter), the Gospel teaches us to attempt to "rub it out wherever it exists." We can live the Gospel poverty ideal without being utterly destitute ourselves. (Although there are some people who <i>will</i> be called to embrace such a lifestyle, such as <a href="http://saints.sqpn.com/saint-benedict-joseph-labre/" target="_blank">St. Benedict Joseph Labre</a>.) </blockquote>
3. <b>Miserliness</b><br />
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Avarice is a sin, not a virtue. The goal here is not to be a Mr. Scrooge, but one who has no love of money so that we can freely part with it in order to benefit others.</blockquote>
4. <b>Being economical</b><br />
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Carefully using money and material goods is good, but it is not automatically synonymous with Gospel poverty. "One who is living the New Testament teaching will usually be economical in his use of creation, but it may possibly happen that what is more economical in a given case may be less in accord with Gospel poverty. An expensive, heavy car may last as long as two small ones, and thus be more 'economical,' but it does not follow that people with a vow of poverty ought to buy the former."</blockquote>
5. <b>Being (merely) detached</b><br />
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Anyone truly striving to live the Christian life should have as their goal a true detachment from money and material things, for without it we cannot wholly love God and neighbor. However, the Scriptures indicate that a spirit of poverty alone is not sufficient; "more is needed before we have satisfied the demands of the Lord Jesus."</blockquote>
6. <b>Availability of person, talent, time</b><br />
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In modern times some have tried to argue that a person is living Gospel poverty when they give themselves in some sort of volunteer fashion. Serving at every weekend Mass as a lector or teaching Sunday School classes are most certainly positive endeavors, however they are not substitutes for a frugal, 'sparing-sharing' lifestyle. "A mere reading of the New Testament rapidly shows that when revelation speaks of poverty, it is speaking of material goods, not personal availability."</blockquote>
7. <b>Insensitivity to health</b><br />
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"Scripture nowhere advises us to be careless regarding health. True enough, there is no support either for pampering one's body. We are to carry our cross daily, but this does not imply that we abuse the health God has given us. Even the Lord himself requires the disciples get rest when they need it after laborious work." </blockquote>
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8. <b>Respectful use of creation</b><br />
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"No one questions that we should use the earth's resources soberly and respectfully," but can we honestly conclude that the Gospel ideal of poverty is "adequately met" simply by adhering to this highly subjective maxim? "The most selfish people can easily convince themselves that their use is 'sober and respectful.'" Clearly Gospel poverty is much more than an environmental awareness and use issue. </blockquote>
9. <b>Amorphous sentimentalism</b><br />
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"Wealthy societies do not lack people who can speak eloquently about the third and fourth worlds, who call emphatically for 'consciousness raising' about the dire destitution among vast populations and yet who seem to see no incompatibility between their speech and their own way of life. They live comfortably, sometimes elegantly. They possess extensive wardrobes, enjoy costly vacations and recreations and dining and drinking and traveling. And yet they talk of the value of Gospel poverty. Their rhetoric of course impresses few listeners...</blockquote>
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Talking about the needy and yet not sharing with them betrays a dead faith and an absence of love. Beatification and canonization processes make plain what the Church thinks of laymen and clerics and religious who live comfortable lives with scarcely a thought for the have-nots in our world." </blockquote>
<br />Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-68558427553793489272013-01-24T21:07:00.000-07:002013-01-25T07:45:55.213-07:00Persevering in prayerIn Fr. John Bartunek's book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1933271108/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1933271108&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">The Better Part: A Christ-Centered Resource for Personal Prayer</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1933271108" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> I encountered such a profound reflection that I was moved to share it in hopes it inspires somebody else also:<br />
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<i>26 And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. 27 And Jesus said to them, "You will all fall away; for it is written, 'I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.' 28 But after I am raised up, I will go before you to Galilee." 29 Peter said to him, "Even though they all fall away, I will not." 30 And Jesus said to him, "Truly, I say to you, this very night, before the cock crows twice, you will deny me three times." 31 But he said vehemently, "If I must die with you, I will not deny you." And they all said the same.</i> </blockquote>
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<i>32 And they went to a place which was called Gethsem'ane; and he said to his disciples, "Sit here, while I pray." 33 And he took with him Peter and James and John, and began to be greatly distressed and troubled. 34 And he said to them, "My soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch." 35 And going a little farther, he fell on the ground and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. 36 And he said, "Abba, Father, all things are possible to thee; remove this cup from me; yet not what I will, but what thou wilt." 37 And he came and found them sleeping, and he said to Peter, "Simon, are you asleep? Could you not watch one hour? 38 Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." 39 And again he went away and prayed, saying the same words. 40 And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were very heavy; and they did not know what to answer him. 41 And he came the third time, and said to them, "Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? It is enough; the hour has come; the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 42 Rise, let us be going; see, my betrayer is at hand." [Mark 14]</i></blockquote>
Jesus went off to pray<b> in order to align his tormented will with the Father's will.</b> He didn't pretend that what God was asking him was easy -- it wasn't. But he wants to be faithful.<b> <i>Just wishing for fidelity, however, is not enough</i>; fidelity has to be won by persistent prayer.</b> St. Mark tells us that Jesus went off to pray, came back to his disciples, and then went off to pray again. He did that three times. <b>Three times </b>in the course of an hour or more, Jesus literally<b> threw himself on the ground</b> in order to <b>wrest grace</b> from the Father to bolster his flagging human nature.<br />
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The lesson couldn't be clearer:<b> fidelity to our mission in life takes perseverance in prayer.</b> Jesus suffered unspeakable <b>fear</b>, <b>distress</b>, and <b>sorrow</b> as the guilt of human sin slowly seeped into his soul and the shadow of the cross darkened his mind. He experienced this Gethsemane for us: <b>to atone for our sins, but <i>also</i> to blaze a trail that we could follow through our own Gethsemane.</b> <b>We each have them. </b>Christ's passion, death, and resurrection -- the Paschal Mystery -- is the <b>pattern of each Christian life.</b> If we are to abide in God's will and accomplish our mission in life, we too much develop <b>sincerity and persistence</b> in our life of prayer.<br />
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<b>Everyone's Gethsemane is tailor-made</b>, but the secret to endurance is always the same: <b>persevering in prayer.</b> The spirit is willing, but the flesh -- our fallen human nature with its tendencies to comfort and self-centeredness -- is weak; it needs the constant nourishment and strengthening that comes from contact with God.<br />
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<br />Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-68014332630529461722013-01-22T17:57:00.002-07:002013-01-22T17:57:55.740-07:00Happy Are You...Poor?<div style="text-align: center;">
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">And he, lifting up his eyes on his disciples, said: </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Blessed are ye poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.</span></i> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Luke 6:20</span> </div>
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If there's anything so starkly opposite of the American dream, it must be the idea of Gospel poverty. In Thomas Dubay's book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0898709210/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0898709210&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Happy Are You Poor: The Simple Life and Spiritual Freedom</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0898709210" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> he opens with a frank acknowledgement of the situation:<br />
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<i>"To the unprepared eyes of modern men and women the title of this book can hardly be taken seriously. To suggest that poverty is desirable seems to approach absurdity. To imply that it is somehow meant for all people in every vocation may seem outrageous." [p. 11]</i></blockquote>
Reading this book when I first bought it several years ago, I myself had great difficulty imagining myself taking on the "sparing-sharing," frugal ideal Fr. Dubay speaks about. It wasn't that the Scriptures weren't replete with examples advocating for this very thing (they certainly are) or that his arguments weren't sufficiently persuasive (his handling of the subject is precise and compelling). No, the problem really came down to this: my soul wasn't sufficiently converted. <br />
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To consider detaching myself from my quest to acquire unnecessary possessions and enjoy spendy pursuits -- makeup, home decor trinkets, the newest smart phone, regular dining in restaurants -- was too much to ask. Though what I read was convicting and a part of me longed to make a real change to my life, it wasn't long after I put the book down that I began the inner argument that surely I could be a good and devout Christian while still enjoying my material indulgences and comfortable lifestyle. After all, I reasoned, I was relatively poor <i>compared</i> to many people I knew. God surely would be OK with my mode of living as long as I was refraining from serious sin, participating in Mass and church life, and dropping some of our money into the contribution basket each Sunday. That was "good enough"...it had to be. Right? <br />
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Now before I go further, let me clear that my purpose here is not to convince anyone on the validity of the Gospel poverty ideal. That's what wise and deeply pious folks like the author of this particular book have done already (Fr. Dubay passed away shortly after I purchased his book, may his soul rest in peace). I just want to share some of my favorite parts of the book and what has most touched me personally now that I've re-read the book from a much different state of mind and soul. :)<br />
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I've found that as my soul has been drawn closer to God, He has converted much of my way of thinking. As Fr. Dubay even mentions, "The only way to know the perfect will of God is to undergo conversion from the worldly outlook. The sensual person cannot understand the things of the Spirit; it is nonsense to him. Unless one is attempting to lead a serious prayer life, he is not likely to be much affected by the message in these pages." Recently I started re-evaluating just what level of sacrifice God was calling me to (in many areas), and as part of that process I picked up this book again. I was humbled to realize that my previous concessions on my lifestyle were indeed just that: concessions. In prayer God impressed on me that my idea of "good enough" is a lukewarm state indicating I was content with being merely mediocre in my relationship with Him. Out of love, He desires more from me. And out of love, I am moved to respond.<br />
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But just who is intended to live this Gospel poverty? The term probably brings to mind a dozen different definitions depending on who you ask, and the idea of who should practice it is probably as equally debatable. <br />
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<i>"When most people think of poverty, they think of destitution. They envision squalor, malnutrition, ragged clothing, dire housing, omnipresent dirt, the absence of necessities for decent human life. Whatever gospel poverty might mean, they do not take seriously the thought that destitution is a viable option for themselves." [p. 11]</i></blockquote>
Others, who perhaps have done more reading, do not equate poverty with destitution. However,<br />
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<i>"...knowing that it does not mean destitution, they turn their thoughts in the direction of religious life. They have heard of a vow of poverty, and, feeling no call to vowed life, they dismiss the thought of it quite as readily as the thought of destitution. Obviously a married person cannot seriously entertain either choice as compatible with the roles of responsible spouse and parent." [p. 11]</i></blockquote>
The author argues, and with the support of a myriad of reputable New Testament scholars, that poverty in the sense that the Scriptures talk about is meant for <i>all</i> -- not just the desert hermit, not just the St. Francis of Assisi, not just the parish priest, but for the college student, young wife, father of five and businessman, and grandparent.<br />
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<i>"In the liturgy throughout the year, weekdays and Sundays alike, one hears over and over again that the poor are blessed, that we must renounce all that we possess to be a disciple of Christ, that if a person has two tunics and a needy brother has none he must give one away, that it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter heaven, that we came into the world with nothing and shall leave it with nothing and therefore we ought to be content with food and clothing and gladly give up superfluities... States in life vary in the efficiency with which they lead to the goal, but the goal remains the same for all. The laymen's living of frugality must differ in some ways from that of the religious and cleric. But the difference is not that between mediocrity and excellence. Evangelical poverty is radical, and it is radical for all." [p. 12, 13]</i></blockquote>
I agree, and so I am moved to consider just what it means (and what it doesn't mean) to live this sort of frugality. In my following posts I will go further into the book and share what stood out to me.<br />
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<br />Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-58082205072445720122013-01-21T14:47:00.000-07:002013-01-21T14:47:04.955-07:00Going ForwardAfter a lengthy period of reflection, I've decided to take a definitively different path with this blog. While this site has been largely domestic in nature, from here forward I'm going to be focusing primarily on my Catholic faith, reflections on the love of God, stories about the Saints, inspiring quotes, and so forth. That is not the say the domestic aspect will not remain -- I'm sure it will! But it will look quite different than it has thus far.<br />
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I've come to the conclusion that my posts will be necessarily brief due to the nature of my daily life, which leaves little time for lengthy discourse. Whether it's due to motherhood or age (or both!), I have difficulty even composing a coherent sentence most days. :) Nevertheless, it is my prayer that what I <i>am</i> able to share will be encouraging and/or thought-provoking for many of you out there that are striving to grow in love and holiness in the Lord. Over the last couple of months I have come to a strong sense that everything else I could possibly offer (recipes, cleaning tips, etc.) is vanity next to that which pertains to Christ Jesus. Useful? Of course. But secondary all the same.<br />
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I am going to begin by sharing excerpts and thoughts over the coming days/weeks about an excellent, if not deeply challenging, book I recently read for the second time: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0898709210/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=domestanddoct-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0898709210">Happy Are You Poor: The Simple Life and Spiritual Freedom</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0898709210" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Fr. Thomas Dubay.<br />
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I hope you will join me. :)Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-18731654979673471102012-12-30T20:44:00.000-07:002012-12-30T20:44:11.609-07:00Blogging once again<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I took an extended break from blogging in order to celebrate the Advent and Christmas season. Now that the New Year is upon us, I am going to take it back up again with a renewed focus on my faith. Also look for an upcoming series I'll be doing on changing eating habits and how I recently lost 50 pounds.<br />
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Plus, my husband and family members gave me a fancy DSLR camera for Christmas, so my photos should be better than ever. ;) I am looking forward to actually being able to work the thing properly...I see photography classes in my future!<br />
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Here are a few shots of my family from recent days:<br />
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<br />Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-73998243404696549902012-12-03T21:14:00.000-07:002012-12-04T17:18:23.191-07:00DIY Advent Calendar<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Advent is upon us. Happily, this year I was prepared BEFORE the first Advent Sunday. (It only took three years as a Catholic to get it together...)<br />
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Usually I buy those classic window-box calendars filled with chocolates, but I couldn't find them in town this year. So, I did the Pinterest Mom thing and, after seeing everyone else's ingenious creations, cobbled together my own calendar. (What <i>did</i> our moms do without Pinterest, I wonder?)<br />
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This is really easy to do, so if you haven't purchased or made a calendar for Advent yet...don't despair. I've been there. ;) If you are crafty you'll probably have all of the necessary items stashed throughout your house somewhere, but if not, they are cheap and easy to find.<br />
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To make this calendar, simply hang up ribbon (or twine) using push pins or nails, then use clothespins to clip on mini chocolate bars and scrapbook paper labeled with numbers.<br />
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Tada!<br />
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Next year, if I'm even MORE prepared, I will write some Scripture verses on the back and throw in a few "surprises" like family movie night.<br />
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One thing at a time, though. ;)<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Linking up to <a href="http://www.sugarbeecrafts.com/" target="_blank">Take a Look Tuesday</a>, <a href="http://www.notjustahousewife.net/2012/11/holiday-traditions-linky-party-2.html" target="_blank">Holiday Traditions</a>,<a href="http://www.craftyconfessions.com/" target="_blank"> Tuesday Confessional</a>, <a href="http://todayscreativeblog.net/" target="_blank">Get Your Craft On</a>, <a href="http://ladybug-blessings.com/" target="_blank">Handmade Tuesdays</a>, <a href="http://adiamondinthestuff.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Time To Shine</a>, <a href="http://www.nap-timecreations.com/" target="_blank">Tasteful Tu</a><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.nap-timecreations.com/" target="_blank">esday</a>, <a href="http://lilluna.com/" target="_blank">Lil Luna</a>, <a href="http://jembellish.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">A Round Tuit</a>, <span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://funkypolkadotgiraffe.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Too Cute Tuesday</a>, <span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://adventuresofadiymom.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Terrific Tuesdays</a>, <span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.abowlfulloflemons.net/" target="_blank">One Project At A Time</a>,<span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="http://amy-newnostalgia.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Anti-Procrastination Tuesday</a>,<span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="http://www.vwbblog.com/" target="_blank">Talent Tuesday</a>, <a href="http://carolynshomework.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Homework</a>, </span></span> </span></span></span></span></i></span><i><br /></i></div>
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Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-13919978462719670122012-11-29T02:00:00.000-07:002012-11-29T02:00:12.024-07:00Copycat Chipotle Cilantro-Lime Rice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For several years I lived in Tucson, AZ. While there, I was introduced to the wonder that is <a href="http://www.chipotle.com/" target="_blank">Chipotle</a>.<br />
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Suffice it to say, my life was never the same again.<br />
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(You think I'm exaggerating for the sake of the story. I'm <i>so not</i>.)<br />
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Unfortunately, the unthinkable happened and I now live nowhere CLOSE to my nearest burrito fix. To be exact, I'm a sad (very sad) 596.5 miles away.<br />
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After several unsuccessful attempts to encourage the Chipotle establishment to open up shop in town, I decided that enough was enough.<br />
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Something had to be done.<br />
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Enter my Copycat Chipotle Cilantro-Lime Rice.<br />
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I haven't got the rest of the burrito components down to exact replicas, but I think this one is a winner. And ultimately, it's really the rice that makes or breaks it. Everything else is secondary. ;)<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Copycat Chipotle Cilantro-Lime Rice</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>INGREDIENTS:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 C. Basmati Rice (can substitute Long Grain Rice if it's all you have)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">3 Tbsp Cilantro, chopped</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 Bay Leaf (small)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 Lime, juiced (or 1/2 Lemon, 1/2 Lime)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 tsp Salt (or to taste)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1/3 C. Soybean or Canola Oil</span><br />
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</span> <b>DIRECTIONS:</b><br />
Cook rice <u>with the bay leaf</u> according to package directions or in a rice cooker. (I will say it right now: the bay leaf is the key to this whole recipe -- you can ultimately adjust the other ingredients according to what you like best, but it will not taste like Chipotle's unless you use the bay leaf.)<br />
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When the rice is done, transfer to a bowl and add the salt, oil, lime juice and cilantro. Stir well and EAT.<br />
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As an FYI, I usually use a different amount of salt each time. For some reason I sometimes have to use more in order to get that true Chipotle taste, and sometimes I use less. Crazy! If you are picky about your salt, start with less and taste. You'll know if you need to add more.<br />
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<b>Tip:</b> This would be a great dish to serve as part of your Our Lady of Guadalupe celebration coming up on December 12!<br />
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Buen provecho!<br />
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<br />Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-6575706114029055852012-11-28T10:38:00.001-07:002012-11-28T10:38:45.630-07:00Pink Pro-Life GraphicsI made a collection of free pro-life graphics to share on your blog, Facebook, and elsewhere around the web. Just click for full size image, download, and use!<br />
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I have a few graphics specifically for men that I'll be posting soon. Good news: they aren't so pink. ;)<br />
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<br />Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-57159268961640954162012-11-26T21:45:00.000-07:002012-11-26T21:45:20.197-07:00Worthy Reads This Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My blogging presence has been greatly minimized this past week due to Thanksgiving celebrations (good thing) and a family flu bug (bad thing), so my usual weekend Worthy Reads got pushed back to today. As we recover (pray for us!), please look elsewhere...like the links below. ;)<br />
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<a href="http://catholiclane.com/witnessing-in-the-here-and-now/" target="_blank">Witnessing in the Here and Now</a> by Genevieve Kineke @ Catholic Lane<br />
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<i>Is it possible that when many important virtues ran hand in hand with the popular culture, that people lost their sense of Christ, who is the measure of all things? Could it be that convention was embraced as a way of creating order and stability rather than as a means of acknowledging our need for constant renewal? Is it possible that Christian piety had become ossified and stale?</i><br />
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</i> <i>The recent election made clear that those human constructs—Christian or otherwise—are no longer welcome in this individualistic paradise. Human dignity, the sanctity of life, marital fidelity, and many normal expressions of virtue are scorned as anachronistic by those who have “run too far ahead.”</i><br />
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</i> <i>Is there anything positive in this? How can good come of it? First, it purifies our intentions—we must now do the right thing for the right reason, which is what mature Christians do. </i></blockquote>
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<a href="http://catholiclane.com/witnessing-in-the-here-and-now/" target="_blank">Keep reading...</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://the-american-catholic.com/2012/11/23/st-christina-the-astonishing-and-the-holiday-stinkiness/" target="_blank">St. Christina the Astonishing and the Holiday Stinkiness</a> by Stacy Trasancos @ The American Catholic<br />
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<i> Alright, let’s face it. Is this the time of year, just after Thanksgiving, when you start dreading the impending “Holiday (Don’t call it Christmas) Season?” You know, the season of nightly news stories about how schools won’t allow the display of Christian symbols, the already beginning onslaught of commercialism and advertising, the atheist sloganeering that degrades an event so sacred, and all the politically correct puffery about how to speak of the Holy Celebration of The Birthday – Christ’s Mass – without actually saying it.</i><br />
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</i> <i>It’s almost intolerable and almost ruinous, like the odor of the hydro-treated petroleum distillates of Goo Gone® invading a warm and apple-cinnamony glowing kitchen. Pee-yew!</i><br />
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</i> <i>How to rise above it all? Well, there’s a unique, if not peculiar, saint who would probably react the way I’d like to react in the middle of holiday nonsense, St. Christina of Liége, also more appropriately named, St. Christina the Astonishing. She frequently tried to escape, well, worldly stinkiness.</i><br />
<a href="http://the-american-catholic.com/2012/11/23/st-christina-the-astonishing-and-the-holiday-stinkiness/" target="_blank"><br />
Keep reading...</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://catholiclane.com/becoming-a-holy-family/" target="_blank">Becoming a Holy Family</a> by Terry McDermott @ Catholic Lane<br />
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<i>“How many of you say prayers with your family before bedtime?” Of the twenty children in the class, only two put up their hands.</i><br />
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</i> <i>“How many of you say the Grace Before Meals?” No show of hands.</i><br />
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</i> <i>“Do you ever pray the Rosary with your family?” Again, no hands.</i><br />
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</i> <i>“Who goes to church every Sunday?” This question was met with a greater show of hands, but it wasn’t unanimous.</i><br />
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</i> <i>It’s no surprise that our society is becoming increasingly secular. The God of Truth, in large part, has been replaced by the gods of convenience, acquisition, power, prestige, sex. The Lord’s Day has become one more day in which to shop and family time has been replaced with overly-scheduled children’s sports practices and music lessons, as well as parents’ pursuit of self-actualization. Is it any wonder that so few of the children in my class have any time for prayer at all?</i><br />
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<a href="http://catholiclane.com/becoming-a-holy-family/" target="_blank">Keep reading...</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.catholicsistas.com/2012/11/26/love-can-be-hated/" target="_blank">Love Can Be Hated</a> by Leticia @ Catholic Sistas<br />
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<i>Real love is hard. Real love hurts. Real love is a mess. And real love means putting ourselves on a cross freely for the one(s) that we love.</i> </blockquote>
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<i>Everything Jesus did from the moment he was conceived in Mary’s womb to the moment He ascended into Heaven was Love Incarnate. Everything He did was to show us the way of Love, the way of God; the Way to Heaven. He was God and He was born in a barn and laid in a feeding trough. He came down from Heaven and put Himself right in the middle of our human messiness. There is no place messier than a trough used to put food scraps for the animals. Then He lived a life of a normal person loving, laughing, working, worshipping, crying and meeting person after person who He loved, who He CREATED, and who rejected Him or didn’t recognize Him. He was betrayed, arrested, berated and hung on a Cross. Why?</i> </blockquote>
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<i>To show us what Love is. Who Love is.</i><br />
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<a href="http://www.catholicsistas.com/2012/11/26/love-can-be-hated/" target="_blank">Keep reading...</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.nydailynews.com/opinion/talk-abortion-article-1.1205095" target="_blank">Let's Talk More About Abortion</a> by S.E. Cupp @ New York Daily News<br />
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<i>This past weekend, I was down in Washington and had a chance to talk to some Republican lawmakers and strategists on Capitol Hill about the trouncing we took in the presidential election.</i><br />
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</i> <i>Over and over again, the fear that the conservative pro-life position may have contributed to our loss came up. Their solution? We have to stop talking about it.</i><br />
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</i> <i>But this cannot be an option. The respect for life is a moral imperative that defines conservatism as much as fiscal responsibility. Conservatism cannot abandon it and remain uncompromised.</i><br />
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</i> <i>Over time, liberalism has normalized abortion, first insisting it should be “safe, legal and rare,” then painting pro-life advocates as fanatics who should be ostracized for foisting their puritanism on the public.</i><br />
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</i> <i>Conservatives need to reclaim the conversation — which they can’t do without talking about it.</i><br />
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<a href="http://www.nydailynews.com/opinion/talk-abortion-article-1.1205095" target="_blank">Keep reading...</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.calledtocommunion.com/2012/11/the-catholics-are-divided-too-objection/" target="_blank">The 'Catholics Are Divided, Too' Objection</a> by Bryan Cross @ Called to Communion<br />
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<i>When Protestants become Catholic, one reason they typically give for doing so is the prospect of attaining unity. They recognize both that the perpetual fragmentation between Protestant denominations cannot be the fulfillment of Christ’s prayer in John 17 that His followers be one, and that this fragmentation is perpetually insoluble by way of sola scriptura and the assumption that Scripture is sufficiently perspicuous to establish or preserve Christians in the unity for which Christ prayed. In the Magisterium of the Catholic Church they see a divinely established way of preserving doctrinal and visible unity through the role of the episcopal successor of St. Peter in Rome. </i></blockquote>
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<i>However, there is a seemingly powerful objection to this argument, an objection raised frequently in response to the prospect of finding in the Catholic Church the unity for which Christ prayed in St. John 17. The objection is the following claim: Catholics are divided too, no less than are Protestants. According to this objection when a Protestant becomes Catholic he does not enter into a greater unity, because he is merely moving from a relatively unified Protestant denomination among many other Protestant denominations, to the structurally unified institution of the Catholic Church composed of members who, it seems, disagree over just about everything.</i><br />
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<a href="http://www.calledtocommunion.com/2012/11/the-catholics-are-divided-too-objection/" target="_blank">Keep reading...</a></blockquote>
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Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-58368271649305638522012-11-21T11:19:00.003-07:002012-11-21T11:20:18.339-07:00Freebie Pro-Life Graphic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After seeing a lot of (appropriately) outraged comments on my Facebook feed to the recent <a href="http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504083_162-57551845-504083/dolphins-found-shot-slashed-and-stabbed-with-tool-in-gulf-of-mexico/" target="_blank">news</a> that some wild dolphins are being found mutilated, shot and stabbed, I felt compelled to create this graphic. So many who advocate for treating animals humanely sadly fail to make the connection to what is being done legally every day to defenseless <i>human beings</i> in the name of "choice," "rights," and "freedom."</div>
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It is worth noting that it became illegal to "harm, harass or kill" wild dolphins under the Marine Protection Act of 1972. Each offense is punishable by up to $100,000 and one year in jail.</div>
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Only one year later, in 1973, it became legal to terminate the life of a pre-born human baby at any age.</div>
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Please feel free to use as you feel fit. As always, credit would be appreciated. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZyQ5smKI-PU/UK0Wrq9o-BI/AAAAAAAABN8/etCGZVa9K9g/s1600/animalcrueltyprolife.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZyQ5smKI-PU/UK0Wrq9o-BI/AAAAAAAABN8/etCGZVa9K9g/s400/animalcrueltyprolife.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<br />Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-45833107269334533052012-11-21T01:00:00.000-07:002012-11-21T01:00:08.351-07:00Kindergarten Read-Aloud List, 81-100<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GLM8lnWdaOY/UHIrenJKgjI/AAAAAAAABAk/OuuB4TWNqRA/s1600/kinder-readaloud4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GLM8lnWdaOY/UHIrenJKgjI/AAAAAAAABAk/OuuB4TWNqRA/s640/kinder-readaloud4.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>"So please, oh PLEASE, we beg, we pray, </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Go throw your TV set away, </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>And in its place you can install, </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>A lovely bookshelf on the wall."</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">- Roald Dahl, <u>Charlie and the Chocolate Factory</u></span></div>
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Several of the books on this week's reading list (#81, #82, #98) will make for excellent Advent reading. For a book on the lives of the Saints, we particularly enjoy #97 and have checked it out from the library multiple times!<br />
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For stories that are just plain ole fun, you won't want to pass up #86 and #87. ;)<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Our Kindergarten Read-Aloud List, 81-100</span></i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><i>*indicates Family Favorite</i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><i><br />
</i></span>*81. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0698119010/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0698119010&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">The Night of Las Posadas</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0698119010" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Tomie dePaola <span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>(this is a delightful story about the Spanish/Mexican Catholic tradition of Las Posadas, a nine-day reenactment of Mary and Joseph's search for an inn in Bethlehem; the ending comes with a miraculous little surprise!)</i></span><br />
82. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0399256490/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0399256490&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Strega Nona's Gift</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0399256490" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Tomie dePaola <i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">(delicious book that chronicles some of the Italian Catholic feast days in December and January and the traditional foods associated with them)</span></i><br />
83. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0892369892/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0892369892&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Song of the Swallows</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0892369892" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Leo Politi <i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">(we liked this - it is a gentle book which commemorates Saint Joseph's Day, the day when the swallows, or las golondrinas, return to their sanctuary at the Mission of San Juan Capistrano)</span></i><br />
84. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0374422680/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0374422680&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Farmer Palmer's Wagon Ride</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0374422680" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by William Steig <span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>(another Steig book that I could do without!)</i></span><br />
85. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0060511141/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0060511141&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Teach Us, Amelia Bedelia</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0060511141" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Peggy Parish<br />
86. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1416990917/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1416990917&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Chicka Chicka Boom Boom</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1416990917" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault <i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">(ok, this book was just cool - great for learning letters...or at least making them fun)</span></i><br />
87. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0618959793/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0618959793&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">The Caboose Who Got Loose</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0618959793" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Bill Peet <i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">(my son, a lover of all things with an engine, totally ate this book up...when we went to the library weeks later he was able to relate the entire thing to the librarian as if he had just read it a few moments prior!)</span></i><br />
88. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0394873343/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0394873343&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">The Berenstain Bears Learn About Strangers</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0394873343" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Stan and Jan Berenstain <i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">(very useful for introducing or reinforcing the concept of strangers and being smart about safety)</span></i><br />
89. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1882513053/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1882513053&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Tales from the Old Testament</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1882513053" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> retold by Jim Weiss (audio book)<br />
*90. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005Q6MJ8O/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005Q6MJ8O&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (Chronicles of Narnia)</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B005Q6MJ8O" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by C.S. Lewis <i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">(I don't think this needs an explanation -- it is a must-read; my 5 yo literally <u>begged</u> every evening for this book)</span></i><br />
91. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0763638439/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0763638439&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Beatrice Doesn't Want To</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0763638439" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Laura Numeroff<br />
92. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0698114019/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0698114019&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Bill and Pete Go Down the Nile</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0698114019" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Tomie dePaola<br />
93. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0440421926/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0440421926&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Fortune Cookie Fortunes</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0440421926" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Grace Lin<br />
94. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0688109950/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0688109950&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Ming Lo Moves the Mountain</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0688109950" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Arnold Lobel <i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">(clever and engaging! -- it reminded me somewhat of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0312367481/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0312367481&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Tikki Tikki Tembo</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0312367481" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />, another book my 5 yo had literally memorized at one point)</span></i><br />
95. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0688158471/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0688158471&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Jessica</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0688158471" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Kevin Henkes <i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">(this was pretty good, I think mostly because it so accurately captures the thoughts of a Kindergartener)</span></i><br />
96. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1605771333/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1605771333&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Help Me Be Good: Being Selfish</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1605771333" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Joy Berry <i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">(brief, pleasant book that teaches about selfishness; the simplicity of it really got through to my kiddos)</span></i><br />
*97. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0802854028/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0802854028&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Saints: Lives and Illuminations</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0802854028" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Ruth Sanderson <i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">(if you're a Catholic family looking for a book on the Saints to add to your home library, this is definitely one to pick up; the stories are short but informative and inspiring, despite that some may need to be edited for smaller children [ie: regarding the details of their martyrdom])</span></i><br />
*98. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0689846819/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0689846819&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">The Legend of Saint Nicholas</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0689846819" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Demi <i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">(beautiful account of the life of the <u>real</u> St. Nicholas, a 4th century Catholic bishop - perfect book to have on hand for his feast day on December 6)</span></i><br />
99. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0316112917/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0316112917&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Arthur Meets the President</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0316112917" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Marc Brown<br />
100. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0688128971/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0688128971&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0688128971" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Kevin Henkes<br />
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<i>Be sure to check out my previous posts for other book ideas:</i><br />
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<a href="http://domesticityanddoctrine.blogspot.com/2012/10/kindergarten-read-aloud-list-1-20.html" target="_blank">Kindergarten Read-Aloud List 1-20</a> | <a href="http://domesticityanddoctrine.blogspot.com/2012/10/kindergarten-read-aloud-list-21-40.html" target="_blank"> 21-40</a> | <a href="http://domesticityanddoctrine.blogspot.com/2012/10/kindergarten-read-aloud-list-41-60.html" target="_blank"> 41-60</a> | <a href="http://domesticityanddoctrine.blogspot.com/2012/11/kindergarten-read-aloud-list-61-80.html" target="_blank">61-80</a><br />
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Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-62970612467831343912012-11-19T21:11:00.002-07:002012-11-20T10:29:52.571-07:0010 Memorable Thanksgiving Traditions To Start NowWhether your Thanksgivings are small, intimate affairs or your house is designated Party Central for the entire neighborhood, it's surprisingly easy to let the impending food binge take over the stage. Whether we intend it to or not, the day often becomes more about how many different turkeys we can make (roast! deep fry! bbq! turducken!) and who can best who in the kitchen (it's a mother-in-law vs. daughter-in-law throwdown, folks) than about creating memories beyond our tastebuds. <br />
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It is my experience that most of us are grasping for something more substantial in our holiday fête than a pretty Sandra Lee tablescape overrun with a dozen different desserts. I believe we are looking for something that will ring happily in our memories and our children's memories decades from now. Something that speaks to family. To true charity for neighbor. To gratitude to God.<br />
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Without further adieu, here are 10 ideas for making the holiday more than just an opportunity to indulge our appetites. Which one will you choose this year?<br />
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1. <b>Begin a <a href="http://christyrobbins.blogspot.com/2010/11/thanksgiving-family-tradition-table.html" target="_blank">Thanksgiving tablecloth</a></b><br />
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2. <b>Make a <a href="http://justsomethingimade.com/2009/11/repost-the-thanksgiving-journal/" target="_blank">Thanksgiving Journal</a></b><br />
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3. <b>Go to <a href="http://www.masstimes.org/" target="_blank">Mass</a>/a Thanksgiving prayer service</b><br />
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4. <b><a href="http://www.active.com/running/turkeytrot" target="_blank">Run (or walk)</a> for a good cause</b><br />
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5. <b>Volunteer at a <a href="http://www.foodpantries.org/" target="_blank">soup kitchen, food bank</a>, or nursing home </b>as a family<br />
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<a href="http://powerofmoms.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/family-serving-at-soup-kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://powerofmoms.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/family-serving-at-soup-kitchen.jpg" /></a></div>
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6. <b>Have an <a href="http://www.berries.com/" target="_blank">appreciation gift</a> delivered</b> to a heroic person or community group you and/or your family is especially thankful for this year (ie: firefighters, police officers, pastors, nurses, etc)<br />
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7. <b>Bake up some <a href="http://www.howdoesshe.com/delicious-dinner-rolls/" target="_blank">gratitude rolls</a></b><br />
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8. <b>Create some "<a href="http://www.howdoesshe.com/thanks-and-giving-paying-blessings-forward/" target="_blank">Blessing Bags</a>" </b>as part of your Thanksgiving Day festivities<br />
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9. <b>Craft a "surprise" <a href="http://onecharmingparty.com/2010/11/02/the-kids-table-paper-bag-turkey/" target="_blank">Turkey centerpiece</a></b> for the kids (or the kid in all of us)<br />
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10. <b>Invite someone new to join you at your Thanksgiving table</b> (the old widow across the street, the college kid at church, your coworker, the parish priest, etc.)<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them."</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">John F. Kennedy</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Linking up to <a href="http://www.manylittleblessings.com/" target="_blank">To</a><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.manylittleblessings.com/" target="_blank">p Ten Tuesday</a></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-4657995621092701452012-11-17T22:08:00.000-07:002012-11-17T22:08:33.553-07:00Worthy Reads This Week<a href="http://www.catholicsistas.com/2012/11/14/rosary-walk/" target="_blank">Rosary Walk</a> by Rachel M. @ Catholic Sistas<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>As a mommy in charge of 5 little souls, I often worry that we do not pray enough together. We forget to pray before meals when there’s five demanding children at the table, we miss bedtime prayers when there are over-tired kiddos, the Divine Mercy Chaplet gets cut short by the trifecta diaper change. Life happens, and as much as I greatly desire to instill habits of prayer and make sure my children receive God’s graces, I mess up.</i> </blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.catholicsistas.com/2012/11/14/rosary-walk/" target="_blank">Keep reading...</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://showerofroses.blogspot.com/2012/11/preparing-our-hearts-for-christmas-soft.html" target="_blank">Preparing our Hearts for Christmas: A Soft Manger, Christkindl, and a Letter to the Christ Child</a> by Jessica @ Shower of Roses<br />
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<i>... And then comes another exciting moment. Once more the mother appears with the bowl, which she passes around. This time the pieces of paper contain the names of the members of the family and are neatly rolled up, because the drawing has to be done in great secrecy. The person whose name one has drawn is now in one's special care. From this day until Christmas, one has to do as many little favors for him or her as one can. One has to provide at least one surprise every single day--but without ever being found out. This creates a wonderful atmosphere of joyful suspense, kindness, and thoughtfulness. Perhaps you will find that somebody has made your bed or shined your shoes or has informed you, in a disguised handwriting on a holy card, that "a rosary has been said for you today" or a number of sacrifices have been offered up. This new relationship is called "Christkindl" (Christ Child) in the old country, where children believe that the Christmas tree and the gifts under it are brought down by the Christ Child himself.</i><br />
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<a href="http://showerofroses.blogspot.com/2012/11/preparing-our-hearts-for-christmas-soft.html" target="_blank">Keep reading...</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://cantuar.blogspot.com/2012/11/bishops-and-birth-rates-heroic-solution.html" target="_blank">Bishops and Birth Rates - A Heroic Solution</a> by Taylor Marshall @ Canterbury Tales<br />
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<i>In 2005, His Beatitude Ilia II, Orthodox Patriarch of All Georgia, became aware that the birth rate in his post-Soviet nation of George was in a downward spiral.</i><br />
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</i> <i>Patriarch Ilia began to preach about "large families" as one of the key elements of Christian civilization. To put it simply, the birth rate and the "faith rate" tend to mirror one another. Look at nations that have rejected the Church and you'll see that these have the lowest birth rates. Perfidy and despair go hand in hand.</i><br />
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</i> <i>In 2008, not only did he preach big families, but the Patriarch promised to personally stand as Godfather for all babies born into Georgian homes with more than two children. </i><br />
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</i> <i>His initiative was widely successful and has since increased the birth rate by 25 percent! Meanwhile, the number of abortions in the nation of Georgia decreased by 50 percent! </i></blockquote>
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<a href="http://cantuar.blogspot.com/2012/11/bishops-and-birth-rates-heroic-solution.html" target="_blank">Keep reading...</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://recoveredcatholic.com/2012/11/15/theology-matters/" target="_blank">Theology Matters</a> by Christina @ The Recovered Catholic<br />
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<i>So often I hear from other believers that “we’re all Christians and our differences don’t matter.” Just recently I had someone say to me “You’re Catholic but I just love Jesus.” In the context of the conversation, the person was letting me know that they didn’t care about theology. I’ve had family members tell me that theology is “a waste of time.” It struck me as completely nonsensical, and indeed it is – for how can we believe in God yet insist that the details don’t matter? How can we love our Savior yet find satisfaction in ignorance of Him?</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Theology matters. Believe in God, but be sure you’re not willfully exchanging a meaningful love for one that is watered down and oversimplified.</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://recoveredcatholic.com/2012/11/15/theology-matters/" target="_blank">Keep reading...</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://youngevangelicalandcatholic.blogspot.com/2012/11/the-converts-to-catholicism-you-didnt.html" target="_blank">The Converts to Catholicism You Didn't Know About</a> by Brantly Millegan @ Young, Evangelical, and Catholic<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Yes, people do choose to join the Catholic Church.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>Both my wife and I joined the Catholic Church as adults (see My Faith Story). The website Why I'm Catholic has a great (and growing) collection of stories of people who joined the Church. There are so many great stories. Obviously, there's the stories of people like Paul, Augustine, Ambrose, Emperor Constantine, John Cardinal Newman, Dorothy Day, Alasdair MacIntyre, Edith Stein, and G.E.M. Anscombe, Francis Beckwith (who was president of the Evangelical Theological Society when he converted), Scott Hahn, and Richard Neuhaus.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i> <i>There's also the bisexual atheist blogger who just became Catholic this last summer, the former evangelical/emergent church co-author of the book Jesus for President who found his way back to the Church via Catholic Social Teaching, the pro-life leaders Lila Rose, Abby Johnson, Bernard Nathanson, and Bryan Kemper, the Wheaton College Bible professor who crossed the Tiber a year and a half ago (just a few years after a philosophy professor there did the same thing), and the steady stream of disaffected Anglicans joining the Catholic Church. Even former speaker of the house and recent presidential candidate Newt Gingrich (who produced a great documentary on John Paul II) and former prime minister of the U.K. Tony Blair have jumped aboard.</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://youngevangelicalandcatholic.blogspot.com/2012/11/the-converts-to-catholicism-you-didnt.html" target="_blank">Keep reading...</a></blockquote>
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Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-57603994258377897082012-11-13T20:47:00.000-07:002012-11-13T20:47:32.167-07:00Kindergarten Read-Aloud List, 61-80<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GLM8lnWdaOY/UHIrenJKgjI/AAAAAAAABAk/OuuB4TWNqRA/s1600/kinder-readaloud4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GLM8lnWdaOY/UHIrenJKgjI/AAAAAAAABAk/OuuB4TWNqRA/s640/kinder-readaloud4.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>“Children are made readers on the laps of their parents."</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Emilie Buchwald</span></div>
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The shining stars of this week's list are definitely #68 and #74. We also love anything by Tomie dePaola, who often interweaves Catholic themes or images into his books. His presentation of Jesus' miracles, #71, helps make the Bible stories come alive for young children.<br />
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If there's one book to skip this week, it's definitely the last.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Our Kindergarten Read-Aloud List, 61-80</span></i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><i>*indicates Family Favorite</i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><i><br />
</i></span>61. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1882513290/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1882513290&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Three Musketeers/Robin Hood</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1882513290" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> retold by Jim Weiss (audio book)<br />
62. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0395442354/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0395442354&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">How My Parents Learned to Eat</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0395442354" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Ina R. Friedman<br />
63. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0761459596/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0761459596&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Sneeze, Big Bear, Sneeze!</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0761459596" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Maureen Wright<br />
64. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0688152813/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0688152813&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Jack and the Beanstalk</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0688152813" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Steven Kellogg<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"> (I would hold off on this one until a child is 7 or older - the illustrations are too scary)</span></i><br />
65. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0763628077/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0763628077&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">A Visitor for Bear</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0763628077" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Bonny Becker<br />
66. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/081184904X/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=081184904X&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Treasured Classics</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=081184904X" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Michael Hague <i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">(great re-telling of popular fairy tales; nicely illustrated)</span></i><br />
67. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0545047161/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0545047161&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Knut: How One Little Polar Bear Captivated the World</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0545047161" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Craig and Isabella Hatkoff, Dr. Gerard Uhlich <i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">(my children sat entranced with this factual account of a polar bear's life in the zoo)</span></i><br />
*68. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0694526207/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0694526207&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">The Magician's Nephew (The Chronicles of Narnia)</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0694526207" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by C.S. Lewis (audio book read by Kenneth Branagh) <i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">(of course this was EXCELLENT - even my 3.5 yo son listened to this, which is saying something!)</span></i><br />
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69. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0439858755/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0439858755&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">The Real Mother Goose</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0439858755" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> edited by Grace Maccarone<br />
*70. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0156181924/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0156181924&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">The Clown of God</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0156181924" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Tomie dePaola <i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">(love, love, love Tomie dePaola; if you're Catholic you'll especially want to read this to your kids - be aware, however, that the theme of death is present)</span></i><br />
*71. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0142410683/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0142410683&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">The Miracles of Jesus</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0142410683" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Tomie dePaola <i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">(accurate, child-friendly accounts of the miracles Jesus performed; I was very happy to find these Bible stories because so many of them are either too simplified or too much license is taken)</span></i><br />
72. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0064435776/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0064435776&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">The Irish Cinderlad</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0064435776" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Shirley Climo<br />
73. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0153565659/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0153565659&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Poppleton Has Fun</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0153565659" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Cynthia Rylant<br />
*74. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1932236090/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1932236090&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Everyday Graces: Child's Book Of Good Manners</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1932236090" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> edited by Karen Santorum <i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">(I literally stumbled across this book at our library and I'm SO glad I did; this is a huge book of short stories, poems and quotations concerning various virtues and good manners. It is lovely, and worth having in the home.)</span></i><br />
75. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1442474963/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1442474963&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">The Three Golden Oranges</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1442474963" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Alma Flor Ada<br />
76. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1402744358/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1402744358&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">The Twelve Dancing Princesses</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1402744358" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> edited by John Cech<br />
77. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0399257314/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0399257314&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Beauty and the Beast</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0399257314" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Jan Brett<br />
*78. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1556248679/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1556248679&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Mr. Rumfitt</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1556248679" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Margaret Mahy <i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">(charming old book about the changing seasons and a grumpy old man who learns to love all of them)</span></i><br />
79. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0590847880/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0590847880&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Poppleton and Friends</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0590847880" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by Cynthia Rylant<br />
80. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0062059017/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0062059017&linkCode=as2&tag=domestanddoct-20">Doctor De Soto Goes to Africa</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=domestanddoct-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0062059017" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by William Steig <span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>(I personally thought this book was junk - sorry to all the Steig fans out there. I had to do too much editing for the sake of little ears - all the name-calling, etc., was too much.)</i></span></div>
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<i>Be sure to check out my previous posts for other book ideas:</i><br />
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- <a href="http://domesticityanddoctrine.blogspot.com/2012/10/kindergarten-read-aloud-list-1-20.html" target="_blank">Kindergarten Read-Aloud List 1-20</a><br />
- <a href="http://domesticityanddoctrine.blogspot.com/2012/10/kindergarten-read-aloud-list-21-40.html" target="_blank">Kindergarten Read-Aloud List 21-40</a><br />
- <a href="http://domesticityanddoctrine.blogspot.com/2012/10/kindergarten-read-aloud-list-41-60.html" target="_blank">Kindergarten Read-Aloud List, 41-60</a><br />
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Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-45802120069224113472012-11-12T06:00:00.000-07:002012-12-10T11:58:57.033-07:00Triple-Layer Peppermint Bark<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N6oOVeQdYkI/UJNRlL2981I/AAAAAAAABKA/ovpVaqSNpY8/s1600/IMG_8173.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N6oOVeQdYkI/UJNRlL2981I/AAAAAAAABKA/ovpVaqSNpY8/s640/IMG_8173.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Several years ago my parents ordered some peppermint bark from William's Sonoma for a Christmas treat.<br />
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Since then, there hasn't been Christmas without it. It was a pricey expenditure, but if you've had it, you know... <b>It is worth it.</b><br />
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Of course, that is, until now. ;)<br />
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Yes, that's right: I have a Copycat William's Sonoma Peppermint Bark recipe. But -- wait for it -- not only is it a "copycat" recipe...I maintain that it <i>exceeds</i> the taste and texture of the original. Husband, the candy connoisseur of this household, declares that my peppermint bark puts the W.S. product <i>to shame</i>. (I do suppose that makes it only a "semi-copycat" recipe. So William's Sonoma could be *technically* correct when they advertise that their pretty candy "is often copied but never matched in quality or flavor.")<br />
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What sets this bark apart from most others is its three layers. The center is delicately minty, rich and just so very slightly soft so that you get this sophisticated balance between the buttery, firm white chocolate and the occasional crisp crunch of the peppermint candy pieces.<br />
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It's a lovely, absolutely lovely, little confection.<br />
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As my three-and-a-half year old boy solemnly declared as soon as the last piece was consumed: "You <i>will</i> make more of this in the morning."<br />
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Why yes, my son, in fact I think I will.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>Triple-Layer Peppermint Bark</i></span><br />
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<b>INGREDIENTS:</b><br />
17 ounces high-quality white chocolate (<i>must be made with real cocoa butter</i>), chopped<br />
20 red-and-white-striped hard peppermint candies, coarsely crushed (about 4 ounces), divided<br />
7 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate (do not exceed 63% cacao), chopped<br />
6 tablespoons heavy whipping cream<br />
1/8 teaspoon peppermint oil (can substitute with 3/4 teaspoon good quality peppermint extract)<br />
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<b>NOTES:</b><br />
- Many Walmart stores now carry Guittard chocolate and white chocolate chips, which is the <u>same</u> brand of chocolate William's Sonoma uses. You may also find them at a local specialty grocer. Find them and buy them. The success of this recipe is dependent entirely on the quality of the chocolate you use. (Of course you can buy really, really expensive stuff if you wish -- but I don't think it's necessary.)<br />
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- Regular "Starbright" peppermint candies work just great in this recipe, but you can also use candy canes. For less mess, tap them gently while they're still in the wrapper (or in a plastic Ziploc bag) using a 14-16 oz. can. I didn't want the fine peppermint pieces in my bark, so I used a strainer afterward to sift the larger chunks out.<br />
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- I used LorAnn's Pure Peppermint Oil in my bark. Once again, you can find it at Walmart! Look in their craft/cake/candy-making section, not the grocery aisle. A little goes a LONG way.<br />
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<b>TIP:</b> To keep the white chocolate layer from remelting when you add the bittersweet chocolate, pour the bittersweet chocolate mixture in three lines down the length of the baking sheet. This speeds up the spreading so that there isn't time for the white chocolate to melt.<br />
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<b>DIRECTIONS:</b><br />
Turn large baking sheet bottom side up. Cover securely with foil. Mark 10 x 9-inch rectangle on foil.<br />
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Stir white chocolate in metal or glass bowl set over saucepan of barely simmering water (do not allow bottom of bowl to touch water) until chocolate is melted and smooth and candy thermometer registers 110°F. (It will feel warm - not hot - to the touch). Remove from over water. Pour half of the melted white chocolate onto rectangle on foil and set aside. Using an icing or regular spatula, spread chocolate to fill rectangle. Sprinkle with half of the crushed peppermints. Chill until set - at least 15 minutes.<br />
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Stir bittersweet chocolate, cream and peppermint oil in another metal or glass bowl set over a saucepan of barely simmering water until just melted and smooth. Cool to barely lukewarm, about 5 minutes. (This step is important - don't skip it. If you don't let it cool, it will melt your white chocolate and while it will still taste fine, it won't look as pretty.) Quickly pour bittersweet chocolate mixture in long lines over white chocolate rectangle. Using your (clean and dry!) spatula, spread bittersweet chocolate in even layer. Refrigerate until <i>very</i> cold and firm - at least 25 minutes.<br />
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Rewarm remaining white chocolate that was left in the bowl by again setting it over barely simmering water until it registers about 110°F. Working quickly, pour white chocolate in lines over firm bittersweet chocolate layer; spread to cover. Immediately sprinkle with remaining crushed peppermints. Chill just until firm, about 20 minutes.<br />
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Lift foil with bark onto work surface; trim edges. Cut bark crosswise into 2-inch-wide strips. Using metal spatula, slide bark off foil and onto work surface. Cut each strip crosswise into 3 sections and each section diagonally into 2 triangles.<br />
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Refrigerate the bark in an airtight container. Can be made up to 2 weeks ahead. Let stand 15 minutes at room temperature before serving.<br />
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Happy "bark"-ing! ;)<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Linking up to <a href="http://www.makeaheadmealsforbusymoms.com/" target="_blank">Melt in Your Mouth Monday</a>, <a href="http://www.shineyourlightblog.com/" target="_blank">Mangia Mondays</a>, <a href="http://www.skiptomylou.org/" target="_blank">Made by You Monday</a>, <a href="http://www.sumossweetstuff.com/" target="_blank">Market Yourself Monday</a>, <a href="http://www.watchoutmartha.net/" target="_blank">Watch Out Martha</a>, <a href="http://www.couponingncooking.com/" target="_blank">Mealtime Monday</a>, <a href="http://jembellish.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">A Round Tuit</a>, <a href="http://www.iloveyoumorethancarrots.com/" target="_blank">Hey That's Pin-tastic!</a>, <a href="http://www.ishouldbemoppingthefloor.com/" target="_blank">Mop It Up Mondays</a>, <a href="http://saynotsweetanne.com/" target="_blank">Sweet Sharing Monday</a>, <a href="http://www.keepingitsimplecrafts.com/" target="_blank">Motivate Me Monday</a>, <a href="http://www.thegirlcreative.com/" target="_blank">Just Something I Whipped Up</a>, <a href="http://www.serendipityandspice.com/" target="_blank">Manic Monday</a>, <a href="http://www.thisgalcooks.com/" target="_blank">Marvelous Mondays</a>, <a href="http://makingtheworldcuter.com/" target="_blank">Making the World Cuter</a>, <a href="http://todayscreativeblog.net/" target="_blank">Get Your Craft On</a>, <a href="http://adventuresofadiymom.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Terrific Tuesdays</a>, <a href="http://www.nap-timecreations.com/search/label/Tasty%20Tuesday" target="_blank">Tasteful Tuesday</a>, <a href="http://ladybug-blessings.com/" target="_blank">Handmade Tuesdays</a>, <a href="http://blackberryvine.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tuesday To-Do</a>, <a href="http://www.reasonstoskipthehousework.com/" target="_blank">Tuesday Time Out</a>, <a href="http://www.sew-much-ado.com/" target="_blank">We Did It Wednesday</a>, <a 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href="http://www.momnivores-dilemma.com/" target="_blank">Creative Juice Thursday</a>, <a href="http://thefrugalgirls.com/" target="_blank">Chic and Crafty</a>, <a href="http://www.aglimpseinsideblog.com/" target="_blank">Catch a Glimpse</a>, <a href="http://www.somewhatsimple.com/" target="_blank">Somewhat Simple</a>, <a href="http://christinasadventures.com/" target="_blank">20 Below Thursday</a>, <a href="http://www.firefliesandjellybeans.com/" target="_blank">Show Off Your Stuff</a>, <a href="http://thetrendytreehouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Create and Share</a>, <a href="http://tidymom.net/" target="_blank">I'm Lovin It</a>, <a href="http://whipperberry.com/" target="_blank">Friday Flair</a>, <a href="http://rhinestonebeagle.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Doggone Dirty Craftin</a>, <a href="http://designsbygollum.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Foodie Friday</a>, <a href="http://www.alittleknickknack.com/" target="_blank">Everything but the Kitchen Sink</a>, <a href="http://chiconashoestringdecorating.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Flaunt it Friday</a>, <a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/" target="_blank">It's Inspiration Friday</a>, <a href="http://www.mysimplehomelife.com/" target="_blank">Simply Creations</a>, <a href="http://www.findingfabulousblog.com/" target="_blank">Frugalicious Friday</a>, <a href="http://kitchenfunwithmy3sons.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Kitchen Fun and Crafty Friday</a>, <a href="http://happyhourprojects.com/" target="_blank">Happy Hour Friday</a>, <a href="http://www.becomingmartha.com/" target="_blank">Keep Calm and Link Up</a>,<a href="http://itsahodgepodgelife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"> It's a Hodgepodge Friday</a>, <a href="http://delightfulorder.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Delightfully Inspiring Thursday</a>, <a href="http://www.chocolatechocolateandmore.com/" target="_blank">Thursdays Treasures</a>, <a href="http://justmycrazykitchen.com/" target="_blank">Linkin Up Thursdays</a>, <a href="http://madeinaday.com/" target="_blank">Made U Look</a>, <a href="http://www.realhousemoms.com/" target="_blank">Fabulous Fridays</a>, <a href="http://www.craftionary.net/" target="_blank">Friday Fun Party</a>, <a href="http://www.loveandlaundry.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wonders</a>, <a href="http://www.momontimeout.com/" target="_blank">Your Creative Timeout</a> </i></span>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-2849408238264064302012-11-11T19:51:00.001-07:002012-11-11T19:51:04.698-07:00Worthy Reads This Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eB4a6Hk4Z8U/UKBciSKx3mI/AAAAAAAABNQ/yeEmtuMEqBM/s1600/yournotkeepingitareyou_2012-02-13-brief-cartoon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eB4a6Hk4Z8U/UKBciSKx3mI/AAAAAAAABNQ/yeEmtuMEqBM/s320/yournotkeepingitareyou_2012-02-13-brief-cartoon.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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As soon as the Presidential Election results rolled in Tuesday evening, the punditry floodgates opened. Now that the dust has settled, I thought it appropriate to share my favorite articles around the web regarding the direction of our country and particularly our role as Catholic citizens.<br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/:%20http://www.ncregister.com/blog/matthew-warner/heres-the-lesson-from-the-election-folks#ixzz2BxSnNbcV" target="_blank">Here's the lesson from the election, folks!</a><span id="goog_602828033"></span><span id="goog_602828034"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a> by Matthew Warner @ the National Catholic Register</div>
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<i>Guess what, regardless of who won the election, today we still have millions of babies being aborted every year. We still have 50% of marriages ending in divorce. We still have a supposedly Christian culture that has separated sex from marriage from procreation. We still have many Americans who are more likely to vote based upon peer pressure, or how nice somebody is, or their own self-interest, or by what the media told them, or by what's socially easy than they are to vote based on their own moral or religious convictions (or any economic sense). We still have lonely and suffering people in our communities who need to be loved.</i> </blockquote>
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<i>Whether marriage is redefined now or later, whether our religious freedom is trampled now or in 10 years, these are not at risk because politicians are getting bolder, they are at risk because our convictions are getting colder.</i> </blockquote>
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<i>And if you're waiting for a politician to fix that, you're wasting your time. Sadly, most politicians are not leaders. And that's because politics has become less about leadership than it is about marketing.</i><br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/:%20http://www.ncregister.com/blog/matthew-warner/heres-the-lesson-from-the-election-folks#ixzz2BxSnNbcV" target="_blank">Keep reading...</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://livesdifferently.blogspot.com/2012/11/100-things-you-can-do-to-make-country.html" target="_blank">100 Things You Can Do to the Make the Country More Pro-Life (and Catholic) No Matter Who is President</a> @ Living Differently<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">1. </span><a href="http://studeo.blogspot.com/2008/10/building-culture-of-life-part-1.html">Respond with Love</a><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">.</span><br style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">2. In particular, keep the post-election conversations charitable.</span><br style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">3. Have children (and read about "</span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roe_effect">The Roe Effect</a><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">").</span><br style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">4. Support cool pro-life organizations like </span><a href="http://www.savethestorks.com/">Save the Storks.</a><br style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">5. Talk to people. Keep it simple. Don't try to fix everything at once.</span><br style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">6. Work on your prayer life and your relationship with God.</span><br style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">7. </span><a href="http://livesdifferently.blogspot.com/p/quotes-on-loving-our-enemy.html">Watch how you talk about other people - especially people you don't like.</a><br style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">8. </span><a href="http://studeo.blogspot.com/2008/10/building-culture-of-life-part-2.html">Support the disabled.</a><br style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">9. </span><a href="http://livesdifferently.blogspot.com/p/quotes-on-gratitude.html">Recognize what is good in others (and in our country and in our culture) and thank God.</a><br style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">10. Cut back on expenditures to share with others.</span></i></span><br />
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<a href="http://livesdifferently.blogspot.com/2012/11/100-things-you-can-do-to-make-country.html" target="_blank">Keep reading...</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.thepublicdiscourse.com/2012/11/6902/" target="_blank">Life in the ‘Kingdom of Whatever’</a> by Archbishop Charles J. Chaput @ The Public Discourse<br />
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<i>In our own day, of course, Catholics have continued to find plenty of ways to bring the faith into disrepute. The Church took too long to articulate her own theologically-grounded doctrine of religious liberty. The sexual abuse crisis has earned many priests and bishops a millstone around the neck for wounding the innocent and causing good people a crisis of faith. And ordinary lay Catholics have let themselves be colonized by the greed, sexual anarchy, and materialism of the culture around them. In too many instances, if we look at the way American Catholics actually live, we consume, relativize, and trivialize like everyone else.</i><br />
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</i> <i>To cultivate virtue, to pursue a life of self-sacrifice, to live joyfully and infused by the sacraments is not something anyone can do alone. It’s too hard. We need grace. We need companions. We need to be taught and trained. This is why God gave us the Church. Too often flawed and all too human, she is nevertheless our Mother, and always, always a gift.</i> </blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.thepublicdiscourse.com/2012/11/6902/" target="_blank">Keep reading...</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.catholic.org/national/national_story.php?id=48433" target="_blank">Election, What Election?</a> by Fr. Chori Jonathin Seraiah @ Catholic Online<br />
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<i>So here we are looking to the future and seeing the likelihood that we are going to move further down the scale into socialism, and we need to realize that communism is just around the corner. We fought it for years (and mocked those who accepted it), and now we have people saying "I'm all for it if it will help us" (exactly as people said with Lenin).</i><br />
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</i> <i>What, then, is it that I have been praying for? Mercy. I have prayed, "Lord keep this nation under thy care" and "guide us in the way of justice and truth". I believe that He will answer this prayer for mercy, but that does not mean that He will answer it in the way that we desire.</i><br />
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</i> <i>If we have been putting our hopes in a politician, then we are eventually going to be disappointed. They are not Jesus Christ, so they cannot live up to His perfection. They will always fail at one time or another. </i><br />
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</i> <i>Therefore, I ask, "election, what election?" Not meaning that I do not pay attention to who is the President of America. Rather, meaning that it is not the results of an election that determine whether I have hope in the mercy of Christ.</i><br />
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</i> <i>It is not who is in the oval office that gives me confidence that God will be merciful. </i><br />
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</i> <i>For sometimes, God's mercy comes in unexpected ways. Sometimes it comes through the ministrations of wicked men. Yes, God can even use the foolishness of a man who advocates murdering innocent babies (like Herod, or President Obama) to open an avenue for mercy. </i> </blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.catholic.org/national/national_story.php?id=48433" target="_blank">Keep reading...</a></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">"For those whose primary allegiance is to the City of God, every foreign country is a homeland and every homeland a foreign country. America is our homeland, and, as the prophet Jeremiah says, in its welfare is our welfare. America is also - and history testifies that this is too easily forgotten - a foreign country. Like every political configuration of the earthly City of Man, America, too, is Babylon. It is, for better and worse, the place of our pilgrimage through time towards our heavenly home.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Until our human pilgrimage reaches that destination... we cannot help but, through our tears, sing the songs of Zion in a foreign land." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Fr. Richard John Neuhaus</i></span><br />
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Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-31516538309502222532012-11-04T21:54:00.000-07:002012-11-05T15:50:57.775-07:00"Cloud of Saints" Craft<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SFWJ7I8v7uE/UJXWZRcZedI/AAAAAAAABLY/8C2J_haPnZQ/s1600/CloudOfSaints.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SFWJ7I8v7uE/UJXWZRcZedI/AAAAAAAABLY/8C2J_haPnZQ/s640/CloudOfSaints.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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We made a "cloud" of the Saints this year for All Saint's Day. My kiddos just loved it -- yes, mostly because there were markers (!) and scissors (!) and <i>glue</i> (!) -- but also because they were fascinated with hearing about the Saints' lives and seeing a visual representation of them up in Heaven with Jesus.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x6axBFBslcU/UJXev45pn1I/AAAAAAAABMM/17fk86ZjXCQ/s1600/IMG_8207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x6axBFBslcU/UJXev45pn1I/AAAAAAAABMM/17fk86ZjXCQ/s640/IMG_8207.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Even I couldn't resist sitting down and coloring a few pictures myself. ;)<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O73PM0WkkgE/UJXe1_kV5hI/AAAAAAAABMU/7rdH12ZcXwM/s1600/IMG_8205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O73PM0WkkgE/UJXe1_kV5hI/AAAAAAAABMU/7rdH12ZcXwM/s640/IMG_8205.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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We (well, mommy) chose a blend of familiar, favorite Saints and some that are new-to-us.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6Cij1j03aU/UJXe6bKKOoI/AAAAAAAABMc/TQXWOaKBFJY/s1600/IMG_8206.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6Cij1j03aU/UJXe6bKKOoI/AAAAAAAABMc/TQXWOaKBFJY/s640/IMG_8206.jpg" width="432" /></a></div>
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I'm leaving it up for the month of November as we learn about these heroic men and women of the faith.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3_mZShtSwQM/UJXe_UM7vRI/AAAAAAAABMk/lPKbScPl7lQ/s1600/IMG_8200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3_mZShtSwQM/UJXe_UM7vRI/AAAAAAAABMk/lPKbScPl7lQ/s640/IMG_8200.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This activity is pretty self-explanatory and doesn't take any prep work or planning besides simply printing off the coloring pages and having basic art supplies at hand. (<i>This</i> mama's kind of craft!) I've included the links to the pictures we used if you wish to use them as well:<br />
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<a href="http://st-takla.org/Gallery/var/albums/Kids/Coloring/Christian/Bible/02-New-Testament-Coloring/www-St-Takla-org--Lord-Jesus-on-the-Throne.jpg?m=1346950232" target="_blank">Jesus</a><br />
<a href="http://www.sundayschoolresources.com/images/cpt4church.gif" target="_blank">Church building</a><br />
<a href="http://www.happysaints.com/2011/11/mother-mary-coloring-page.html" target="_blank">Virgin Mary</a><br />
<a href="http://hillsideblog.blogspot.com/2012/04/available-now-for-preorder.html" target="_blank">St. Joseph</a><br />
<a href="http://www.happysaints.com/2012/10/coloring-pages-of-st-pedro-and-st-kateri.html" target="_blank">St. Kateri Tekakwitha</a><br />
<a href="http://paperdali.blogspot.com/2010/06/blessed-mother-teresa-of-calcutta.html" target="_blank">Blessed Mother Teresa</a><br />
<a href="http://www.saint-faustina.com/drp/?q=kidsactivities" target="_blank">Blessed John Paul II</a><br />
<a href="http://id.scribd.com/doc/7814888/St-Elizabeth-of-Hungary" target="_blank">St. Elizabeth of Hungary</a><br />
<a href="http://id.scribd.com/doc/41051124/St-Charles" target="_blank">St. Charles Borromeo</a><br />
<a href="http://paperdali.blogspot.com/2009/11/nov-3-feast-day-of-saint-martin-de.html" target="_blank">St. Martin de Porres</a><br />
<a href="http://thelittleways.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/St-Therese-Coloring-Page-1.jpg" target="_blank">St. Therese of Lisieux</a><br />
<a href="http://id.scribd.com/doc/14461148/St-Gianna" target="_blank">St. Gianna Beretta Molla</a><br />
<a href="http://www.edupics.com/coloring-page-saint-nicholas-on-his-horse-i8880.html" target="_blank">St. Nicholas</a><br />
<a href="http://id.scribd.com/doc/5261232/Saint-Josephine-Bakita" target="_blank">St. Josephine Bakhita</a><br />
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<u>Supplies needed:</u><br />
- Large white paper (could also use parchment paper)<br />
- Construction paper<br />
- Scissors<br />
- Crayons/markers/colored pencils/paint<br />
- Glue<br />
- Tape<br />
- Cotton balls <i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">(if you have a paper plate handy, you may want to squeeze the glue out on to the plate so the kids can just dip the cotton ball into it)</span></i><br />
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<b>Tip:</b> if you use white school glue for the pictures, be sure to use sparingly and only around the edges. A few of our pictures got ruined because the glue made all the color bleed out!<br />
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<b>Note:</b> if you are looking for something more basic for the 2-4 year old crowd, we've done <a href="http://domesticityanddoctrine.blogspot.com/2010/11/all-saints-day-2010.html">this simpler version</a> in past years with great success.<br />
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Linking up to <a href="http://www.equippingcatholicfamilies.com/2012/11/happy-all-saints-day-summary-of-saint.html" target="_blank">Equipping Catholic Families</a>, <a href="http://mylifesatreasure.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Our Favorite Things</a><br />
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<br />Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2240675273928665948.post-51865506911682356102012-11-01T23:04:00.001-06:002012-11-01T23:42:30.412-06:007QT - All Saints Day Edition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>We had a quiet but pleasant All Hallow's Eve snuggled on our couch with cider and a movie.</b> As is our tradition, I made "gourmet" caramel apples. The kids are still eating on theirs -- mmmm! </div>
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<b>Princess was St. Elizabeth of Hungary for the day.</b> Since I wasn't organized this year about assembling a Saint costume, we had to make do with what was stuffed in her toy box. Princess has a fashion sense about her that I never had (and, um, still don't), so she was quickly able to pull together a Queen-themed outfit. She also put on a little cloak and hid her play food in it to "feed the poor" as St. Elizabeth had. It was very sweet. :)<br />
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<b>Bud was going to be St. Michael the Archangel, but lost interest quickly.</b> Being three and a half will do that to you, I suppose. I had to wrangle him back into his armor in order to take a picture, hence the very, very, very, very unenthused facial expression. (And to think this was the best of the bunch - the poor kid looks like someone was forcing him to eat rocks while looking straight into the sun. I'm <i>such</i> a mean mom.)<br />
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<b>All Saints Day this year fell on Husband's day off so we were all able to attend the noon Mass together as a family.</b> I still had to spend most of it standing in the entryway trying to quiet/distract/chase a fussy toddler, but I consider it a definite improvement over last year's late evening Mass. I still frequently recall the fond memories of actually having to <i>leave the church</i> and sit in the car <i>for an hour</i> with a <i>shrieking</i> infant. I'm sure I'm not the only mom who has had the pleasure of experiencing such a trial of patience. (Right? <i>Right?!</i>)</div>
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<b>I could have listened to this all day... </b>Beautiful.</div>
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<b>We started on a big All Saints/All Souls Day project.</b> I can't wait to share! A post is coming soon.</div>
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<b>Now don't tell me that this isn't the most perfect All Saints Day treat.</b> White for the Saints who won their crowns due to the sanctity of their lives, red for the Martyrs... Yes, oh yes. <i>Perfection.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>O holy souls that now rejoice without fear of losing your joy and are forever absorbed in the praises of my God! Happy indeed your lot! How right that you should employ yourselves ceaselessly in these praises! and how my soul envies you, free as you now are from the affliction caused by the grievous offenses which are in these unhappy days are committed against my God!</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>- St. Teresa of Avila</i></span></div>
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Linking up to 7 Quick Takes Friday @ <a href="http://www.conversiondiary.com/" target="_blank">Conversion Diary</a><br />
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Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00603833264087242061noreply@blogger.com2