I've been reflecting lately on Mary’s role as a mother. Specifically on her role as a mother during the preaching years of Jesus and after His ascension into heaven, as her mothering years did not stop. Indeed, perhaps these were her mightiest years as she formed the...
The other morning, in the early haze of dawn, I asked my husband how I could support him spiritually. He was quiet for a while and then said, “What you are doing is enough.” Not to be dissuaded from helping my husband get to heaven, I thought of the myriad choices...
As a mom, I seek to use Mama Mary’s words as I parent. I figure that they are a pretty good model for what should come out of my mouth. Recently, I shared a beautiful parenting moment with a couple of my teenagers. As they sat on the couch, late at night, at the foot...
I’ve been reflecting a lot about the behind-the-scenes efforts of raising a Catholic family. Since it is winter, and I have been hunkered in my home, I am noticing all the little ways we have nurtured our Catholic faith through environment. It is a delicate balance...
It’s easy for me to love. It is what I do. Raising eight souls and being married 24 years have given me plenty of opportunities to grow in the knowledge of how to love. Those who are loved by acts of service, I’ve got your gas tank filled up for you. Physical touch?...
I have become a go-to person for large family questions. I am not sure which child achieved me this status. Sons one, two, and three are all incredible gifts and watching them grow together was and continues to be a joy. Was it number four because we chose to open our...
Preface: I am not a writer on grief. Suffering, this I know --but grief is new to me. I can write on laughter, joy, prayer, and love, but I never knew how they all could be wrapped up in a package of grief. While emotions are completely raw, they also offer...
A frequently quoted mantra in our home is that your story starts and ends with mercy. It is written on the white board that holds family announcements. It is brought out when mistakes are made, feelings are hurt and we desire to make amends with ourselves, those we’ve...
Early Christians were made recognizable by their actions. Aristedes, sent by Emperor Hadrian during the days of the early Church to scope out those known as “christians," gave a report and these ending words have stood the test of time. “Behold, how they love one...
It is always good counsel to walk with a friend who brings you closer to the best version of yourself. Some people draw you to them in wonder, as you see the way they live their life and we seek to imitate them. Some people make you shift a bit in your seat at their...
