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# Snoring Scholar

book reviews and more by Sarah Reinhard

## Sitemaps

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## Posts

- [Anything But Groovy: Catholic YA meets Freaky Friday](https://www.snoringscholar.com/anything-but-groovy-catholic-ya-meets-freaky-friday/) - Let's talk body-switching and time travel, shall we?
- [2020 Books Read](https://www.snoringscholar.com/2020-books-read/) - Here's what I read in 2020 (regularly updated throughout the year).
- [Book Talk: My three latest reads](https://www.snoringscholar.com/book-talk-my-three-latest-reads/) - My three latest reads include a classic, a fun audiobook, and a novel.
- [Moonchild Rising: Catholic Vampire Romance](https://www.snoringscholar.com/moonchild-rising-catholic-vampire-romance/) - Maybe you never considered Catholic vampire romance a viable option for reading. I'm here to tell you...maybe you should.
- [Set the World on Fire with 'Your Blue Flame'](https://www.snoringscholar.com/set-the-world-on-fire-with-your-blue-flame/) - You'd do yourself a disservice not to read Your Blue Flame twice, and here's why.
- [Dex, Santiago, and the Study of Stubbornness](https://www.snoringscholar.com/dex-santiago-and-the-study-of-stubbornness/) - Karina Fabian shares the inspiration for her novella, inspired by Ernest Hemingway's Puliter-prize winning piece.
- [The Uninterrupted Life Is Not Worth Writing](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-uninterrupted-life-is-not-worth-writing/) - Bestselling author Susie Lloyd shares about the books on her nightstand and how the interruptions in her life make it worth living.
- [Meet Karina Fabian of Magic, Mensa & Mayhem](https://www.snoringscholar.com/meet-karina-fabian-of-magic-mensa-mayhem/) - I met Karina Fabian last year when I attended the Catholic Writers Conference Online. At the time, I didn't consider myself a writer, not in the "I know what I'm doing" sense of the term. (I still don't, for that matter, though I use the word to describe myself because, well, I am!) Karina was
- [A Poem and 3 Books](https://www.snoringscholar.com/poem-3-books/) - In the spirit of wishing you a very merry Christmas, here's a poem that I was invited to share here on the blog and a link to three books I'm looking forward to reading. Son Son of Adam, Son of Man Son of David, Abraham Son of Joseph, royal line Son of Mary, Son Divine
- ["Stuck" at the End of the Beach](https://www.snoringscholar.com/stuck-end-beach/) - Today's guest post is something of a blessing for me on a lot of levels. It arrived in my inbox on a day when I was trying not to be overwhelmed and wondering about the point of a few things. The message, one of trusting God and even thanking him for the "stuck" moments in
- [Book Highlight: A Channel of Your Peace](https://www.snoringscholar.com/book-highlight-a-channel-of-your-peace/) - Here's a peek into a book you may enjoy as much as I did!
- [Come Back to Me: A Book I'm So Glad I Binge-Read](https://www.snoringscholar.com/come-back-to-me-a-book-im-so-glad-i-binge-read/) - Here's why I'm glad I binge-read Come Back to Me, by Carolyn Astfalk.
- [Writing the Kind of Book You Want to Read](https://www.snoringscholar.com/writing-the-kind-of-book-you-want-to-read/) - Carolyn Astfalk shares what inspired her to write the kind of book she wanted to read and how she came to write Stay with Me.
- [Spending Lent with Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/spending-lent-with-mary/) - Spending Lent with Mama Mary is right up my alley, and here's a book to guide me in that plan.
- [Enough As You Are: Yes, you can (and you are!)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/enough-as-you-are-yes-you-can-and-you-are/) - This review of Enough As You Are, by Peggy Weber, will encourage you and help you see that you are enough.
- [2019 Books Read](https://www.snoringscholar.com/2019-books-read/) - This is my ongoing list of my 2019 reading.
- [December Reading Highlights](https://www.snoringscholar.com/december-reading-highlights/) - The best of my December 2019 reading includes a fun novel, a hilarious how-to, an indispensable handbook, and a great take on the prophets.
- [A word, a saint, a goal](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-word-a-saint-a-goal/) - A look at the New Year through the lens of acceptance, St. Clotilde, and a sort-of resolution.
- [Curling up with Mary as Our Lady of Loreto](https://www.snoringscholar.com/curling-up-with-mary-as-our-lady-of-loreto/) - There's nothing like a good Mary story, and the story of Our Lady of Loreto is one. Enjoy!
- [Highlights from my November reading](https://www.snoringscholar.com/highlights-from-my-november-reading/) - These highlights from my November reading include a ripping good novel, poetry, one of the best mothering books I've read, and a book on being distracted.
- [To Heaven and Back: A Book Review I'm Shocked to Give](https://www.snoringscholar.com/to-heaven-and-back-a-book-review-im-shocked-to-give/) - Earlier this year, which was actually the end of our parish's religious education year, I read Heaven is for Real: A Little Boy’s Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, by Todd Burpo. I was underwhelmed by it, despite the fact that my niece seemed to like it and a whole class of our
- [Our Lady of Liesse, Queen of My Diamond Castle](https://www.snoringscholar.com/our-lady-of-liesse-queen-of-my-diamond-castle/) - How is a 100-year-old farmhouse anything close to a Diamond Castle? Ask my four-year-old. And Mary. (Because OF COURSE there's a Mary story here!)
- [Mr. Blue, by Myles Connolly](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mr-blue-by-myles-connolly/) - I would have never even known about this little gem, Mr. Blue, by Myles Connolly, had it not been for Julie’s review over at Happy Catholic. She says everything I’d like to say (so why do I keep typing?), and with more insight than I would have started with. In the introduction of Mr. Blue,
- [My Nativity Advent Calendar](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-nativity-advent-calendar/) - If you're looking for an Advent calendar that's easy and Christ-focused AND kid-friendly, check this out this one from Ignatius Press.
- [Overcoming the reader's dilemma](https://www.snoringscholar.com/overcoming-the-readers-dilemma/) - The problem isn't that there's nothing to read. The problem is that there is EVERYTHING to read! In which I share tips to overcome the reader's dilemma.
- [What it's like to write historical fiction (and a preview of Ella's Promise)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/what-its-like-to-write-historical-fiction-and-a-preview-of-ellas-promise/) - An exclusive interview with author Ellen Gable and a peek at her newest historical romance, Ella's Promise
- [Three things, three smiles](https://www.snoringscholar.com/three-things-three-smiles/) - What would it take to smile three times today? Here are some ideas and some reasons to give it a whirl!
- [Our Lady of the Lost and Found (updated)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/our-lady-of-the-lost-and-found/) - What would you do if Mary -- as in the Blessed Virgin Mary -- just showed up at your house and asked to stay for a week? That’s the premise behind Diane Schoemperlen’s 2001 novel Our Lady of the Lost and Found. It was recommended to me and the title was enough to intrigue me.
- [Best of my October reading](https://www.snoringscholar.com/best-of-my-october-reading/) - Here are my favorites from my October reading, including some fun fiction and a book that taught me a lot about nutrition.
- [Charlotte’s Honor: Romance and History Meant to Captivate](https://www.snoringscholar.com/charlottes-honor-romance-and-history-meant-to-captivate/) - If you’re looking for a cozy book to curl up with, allow me to recommend Charlotte’s Honor, by Ellen Gable.
- [Julia's Gifts: A Love Story Worth Reading](https://www.snoringscholar.com/julias-gifts-love-story-worth-reading/) - I emerge from the Reading Desert to review Julia's Gift, a new novel from Ellen Gable. It's historical fiction done well, and could feed your need for a light read or your read for a fun run...or something. (In other words, I liked it.)
- [My new newsletter: Three Shots](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-new-newsletter-three-shots/) - If you’re interested in my ongoing thoughts — in short form, by way of email — sign up here (or in the sidebar), and I’ll send them your way. These emails will be on weekdays and will include, but not be limited to, books, saints, links I’ve found fun, useful, or pretty, and random smiles.
- [A joy of motherhood (that surprised me)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-joy-of-motherhood-that-surprised-me/) - Why is it so hard to actually like kids? And who knew that having them would change my mind?
- [Our Lady of Charity Blog Novena, Day 5](https://www.snoringscholar.com/our-lady-of-charity-blog-novena-day-5/) - Let’s turn to Our Lady of Charity in prayer today as part of the novena leading up to her feast day.
- [The Heart of Perfection: A Great Book to Read (and Reread)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-heart-of-perfection-a-great-book-to-read-and-reread/) - The Heart of Perfection, by Colleen Carroll Campbell, is just what I needed, and reading it was a journey I enjoyed (and I will be rereading it!).
- [Good Friday at the foot of the Cross](https://www.snoringscholar.com/good-friday-at-the-foot-of-the-cross/) - Standing at the foot of the Cross on Good Friday is anything but easy. Even so, it’s where we are invited to be today.
- [Why I Stay Catholic](https://www.snoringscholar.com/why-i-stay-catholic/) - Why do I bother? Why do I stay? I ask myself that every so often, and I come back to the same answer.
- [Inspired by Lourdes](https://www.snoringscholar.com/inspired-by-lourdes/) - There's a church near us named Our Lady of Lourdes. It's a pretty common name for a Catholic church, but until recently, all I knew about that title was that it referred to Mary and a place in France. I've heard about Lourdes water, but nothing specific. I certainly didn't realize what I would find
- [Why I Love Our Lady of Lourdes](https://www.snoringscholar.com/why-i-love-our-lady-of-lourdes/) - Today's the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. Here are a few of the reasons why she's so special to me. 1. It's a great story. If you are looking for some spiritual reading, I recommend reading the accounts of each apparition (link opens the listing; when you start with the first, you can click
- [Twilight Book Review](https://www.snoringscholar.com/twilight-book-review/) - I finished Twilight a week ago. I read it in about two-and-a-half days, and then I had to spend three days in detox. I’ve been thinking since then about what - if anything - I would write in review. I could, I thought, decline to comment, as I have with a few other books -
- [Life, Interrupted](https://www.snoringscholar.com/life-interrupted/) - I'm living a life that's interrupted all. the. time. But is that such a bad thing?
- [2018 Books Read](https://www.snoringscholar.com/2018-books-read/) - My favorite picks of my 2018 reading are highlighted here and also indicated in bold below. Find me on Goodreads What it means when I give a book 5 stars My book posts here at Snoring Scholar January Looking for the King (Inklings #1), by David C. Downing (fiction) Jesus: The Story You Thought You Knew,
- [Best of 2018 Reading](https://www.snoringscholar.com/best-of-2018-reading/) - Here are my favorite reads from 2018, including best of the best, rereads, fiction, and nonfiction books.
- [The classic Advent app: Magnificat Advent Companion](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-classic-advent-app-magnificat-advent-companion/) - If you're anything like me, you think of Advent and you're instantly exhausted. I mean, could we add anything more to December? Seriously? It’s kind of hard not to look at Mother Church and throw up my hands. And then... …then I think about being 100 months pregnant and riding on a donkey for miles
- [My Favorite Advent Resources](https://www.snoringscholar.com/advent/) - These are Advent resources that I've loved over the years. Enjoy!
- [It's OK to Start with You and Nurturing Relationships](https://www.snoringscholar.com/its-ok-to-start-with-you-and-nurturing-relationships/) - What do self-care and relationships have in common? For one thing, the great book from Julia Marie Hogan. For another, they're intertwined. Let's explore that, shall we?
- [Book Review: The Vanishing Woman](https://www.snoringscholar.com/book-review-the-vanishing-woman/) - Here's a delightful whodunit, featuring the accidental detective, Fr. Gabriel.
- [Finding Consolation with Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/finding-consolation-with-mary/) - Our Lady of Consolation reminds me that there’s comfort, even in the parts of life you don’t “win,” in the pain and suffering, in the knowledge of the prize I seek.
- [Summer Reading Rec: Under the Watchful Sky](https://www.snoringscholar.com/summer-reading-rec-under-the-watchful-sky/) - Dare I say this is dystopian done right? Why yes, I do. Call this my summer pick for you: Under the Watchful Sky, by Roger Thomas. #yourewelcome
- [2017 Books Read](https://www.snoringscholar.com/2017-books-read/) - These are the books I read in 2017.
- [Finding the Love of Mary in the Blessed Sacrament](https://www.snoringscholar.com/finding-the-love-of-mary-in-the-blessed-sacrament/) - I truly started understanding how much Jesus loves me when I got to know Mary better. She has truly led me to her Son.
- [Make Today Matter with Big Heart](https://www.snoringscholar.com/make-today-matter-with-big-heart/) - Chris Lowney got me thinking about big heart and bringing it every day.
- [Mary, Refuge of Sinners](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-refuge-of-sinners/) - Mary, in her title as Refuge of Sinners, reminds me of a childhood hideout I had...and points me to the graces God has for me.
- [Good Enough Is Good Enough: A Book EVERY MOM Should Read](https://www.snoringscholar.com/good-enough-is-good-enough-a-book-every-mom-should-read/) - I didn't know she was a soul sister of mine until I read this book. It's a book that, quite frankly, every Catholic mom should read. And reread.
- [Silence and Tears: On the Pain and Joy of Death](https://www.snoringscholar.com/silence-and-tears-on-the-pain-and-joy-of-death/) - In which I reflect on the recent death of my grandmother, a woman who was one of the most influential in my life.
- [3 Great Finds for Lent](https://www.snoringscholar.com/3-great-lent-finds/) - 3 finds for you to enjoy and use this Lent.
- [Special Patron Saints](https://www.snoringscholar.com/special-patron-saints/) - These are the patron saints I've had "pick me" in the past few years: 2018 - St. Albert the Great 2017 - St. Eugene de Mazenod 2016 - St. Peter Ou 2015 - St. Maria Goretti 2014 - Blessed Titus Brandsma 2013 - St. Isidore the Farmer 2012 - St. Matthias 2011 - St. Zita 2010 -
- [Quick Takes, New Year Style](https://www.snoringscholar.com/quick-takes-new-year-style/) - --- 1 --- Good news! I'm going to be attending the Behold Conference in East Peoria, IL, on March 10! It's quite a line-up going on over there: Kate Wicker's the keynote speaker and Jennifer Fulwiler, Hallie Lord, and a host of other people I stalk follow enthusiastically will be in attendance. I'd love
- [Catholic Mom's Desk Calendar = Big Win](https://www.snoringscholar.com/catholic-moms-desk-calendar-big-win/) - You deserve a boost of inspiration and a bolstering of support: You'll find that (and more) in this new desk calendar.
- [2015 Books Read](https://www.snoringscholar.com/2015-books-read/) - These are the books I read in 2015.
- [Flowers for Mary as Mediatrix of All Graces](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-as-mediatrix-of-all-graces/) - When I fill my home with sagging cups of weeds, I'd like to think I'm not so different from Mary as Mediatrix of All Graces, when she takes my dandelion flowers to Jesus.
- [Memorial Day: We Remember](https://www.snoringscholar.com/memorial-day-remember/) - On Memorial Day, join me in praying for those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
- [2012 Reading Goals](https://www.snoringscholar.com/2012-reading-goals/) - --- Books + Lists = Win! --- This post started forming in my mind when I read Julie's reading goals for 2012. Believe it or not, I've never thought of making a book list of goals for my yearly reading. Maybe this will help me wade through some of the books that have been collecting
- [Quick Takes Halfway through Advent](https://www.snoringscholar.com/quick-takes-halfway-through-advent/) - --- 1 --- Not only did I find my Advent wreath this week, but I set it up. AND we have USED it. --- 2 --- In case I'm not the only person just getting started on Advent halfway through, I thought I'd host something fun next week...a link-up (or "carnival" to those of us
- [The Last Minute Takes](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-last-minute-takes/) - --- 1 --- I wasn't going to do a post. Again. Because...well, the why doesn't matter. --- 2 --- I'm hearing great feedback from people who are using Welcome Baby Jesus for their families at Advent. I'm so glad! --- 3 --- And that leads, naturally, to the question that seems to be first on everyone's
- [The Advent of Advent and other Quick Takes](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-advent-of-advent-and-other-quick-takes/) - --- 1 --- Pat Gohn is so clever. Her latest episode of the Among Women podcast has a great title, "the Advent of Advent" -- it's an interview with an author of an Advent book, ME! --- 2 --- I don't know about you, but I'm going to be tuning into NCYC as much as I can. Our
- [Quick Takes on Costumes, Books, & Advent](https://www.snoringscholar.com/quick-takes-on-costumes-books-adven/) - ---1--- The Angel, the Horse, and the Cutie Patootie My camera is broken. It's been broken for a while, but I only just figured out that there's no fixing the blurry pictures. Good thing for my sister-in-law, huh? --- 2 --- Put this on your to-read list. I am trying my best to whip through
- [The Unthemed Takes](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-unthemed-takes/) - --- 1 --- It makes me happy to have a theme for my Quick Takes posts. I know that's not the point of them. All the same, I like a theme. It helps me write them. --- 2 --- But this week, no theme. Not even something related to Mary. (But hey! Today's the feast of Our
- [Mary and Me: a Glowing Review](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-and-me-a-glowing-review/) - Before I begin this review of Mary and Me: Catholic Women Reflect on the Mother of God, by Ginny Kubitz Moyer (who blogs most delightfully at Mary and Me), I have to give you a disclaimer, dear reader: I’m biased to the hilt, and a big fan of the author, and I’m quite possibly going
- [POS](https://www.snoringscholar.com/pos/) - Image sourceI came across the meaning of “POS” in the instant messaging lingo in a reflective essay in our diocesan newspaper, in which a grandmother (who is also a friend of mine) was lamenting the change in the young people in her life now, as opposed to how they were ten or twenty years ago.“Is
- [Cricket in the Bedroom](https://www.snoringscholar.com/cricket-in-the-bedroom/) - And here, if you like, the Cricket DID chime in! with a Chirrup, Chirrup, Chirrup, of such magnitude, by way of chorus; with a voice so astoundingly disproportionate to its size, as compared with the kettle; (size! you couldn’t see it!) that if it had then and there burst itself like an overcharged gun, if
- [The Squee! Takes](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-squee-takes/) - --- 1 --- In my inbox this week: --- 2 --- That, my friends, is the long-awaited, much-anticipated cover art for my upcoming book, Catholic Family Fun: A Guide for the Adventurous, Overwhelmed, Creative, or Clueless. It is the first book I ever wrote (not counting the book on taking care of your Cabbage Patch
- [Mid-January Takes: Lent on My Mind, Cool Video, & Pick of the Week](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mid-january-takes-lent-on-my-mind-cool-video-pick-of-the-week/) - --- 1 --- So last week, as I was jumping up and down about the cover of my newest book, I neglected to mention one key thing: It's not available for pre-order yet. Don't you worry. I will let you know when it is! --- 2 --- I have a whole pile of Lenten books
- [Hide-and-Seek with the Holy Family](https://www.snoringscholar.com/hide-and-seek-with-the-holy-family/) - --- 1 --- My favorite Nativity Set is part of my decor. --- 2 --- Since Christmas, my four-year-old has had an interest in arranging them. And rearranging them. And now...they play hide-and-seek. --- 3 --- It took me a week or so to realize they were missing from their usual shelf. Turns out, Mama
- [Quick Takes with Pictures](https://www.snoringscholar.com/quick-takes-with-pictures/) - --- 1 --- You know what makes me happy? This conversation from Facebook and the subsequent picture I have in my head because of it. Anyone know where I can find a statue of Mary on a HORSE? Huh? I think I need one. Well, come to think of it, I probably need two. My
- [Summer Randomness in Seven](https://www.snoringscholar.com/summer-randomness-in-seven/) - --- 1 --- I've been thinking of cutting back on blogging for the summer. Whether I will or not remains to be seen. Much of what I do here is therapeutic and habitual and...well, if you see less of me here, you'll know why. It's because I'm working on my tan. If any sun can
- [My New Book in Seven](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-new-book-in-seven/) - --- 1 --- Look what came in the mail this week: --- 2 --- THAT is the bound galley copy of my new book, A Catholic Mother's Companion to Pregnancy: Walking with Mary from Conception to Baptism. It's the first of the brand-new CatholicMom.com books. It's due out from Ave Maria at the end of
- [Quick Takes with a Chance of Tomatoes](https://www.snoringscholar.com/quick-takes-with-a-chance-of-tomatoes/) - --- 1 --- A few weeks ago, I realized that I can be sucked into TV shows. I may pretend like I'm all "only reading for me, no TV at all in my pristine, perfect world." Do not be fooled. When he changes the channel from golf or NFL, I'm as sucked into Beast Hunter
- [Takes of the Quick Sort](https://www.snoringscholar.com/takes-of-the-quick-sort-2/) - --- 1 --- We're finishing up the rosary today. (Link will work after 8 AM Eastern. Yes, I'm being lazy and posting it anyway.) You can enter to win that nifty Nook tablet through Sunday, October 28. --- 2 --- In case you wanted to win a copy of my book, here you go, a
- [Quickly, Quickly](https://www.snoringscholar.com/quickly-quickly/) - --- 1 --- Ashley Collins (who I interviewed a few weeks ago at CatholicMom.com) cracks me up. What do you think of his reality show idea? There should be a way to insert Jen Fulwiler and Danielle Bean in there, I think, and get me outta there. Then again, I'll bet it would be lotsa
- [Got a minute for some Quick Takes?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/got-a-minute-for-some-quick-takes/) - --- 1 --- Remember last year’s Advent wreath link-up? It's not to late to enter for this year's! Because yes, I'm doing it again. {Why not? It was fun! :)} What you do: Take a picture of your Advent wreath. How you participate: Option 1: Post your picture to your blog and send me the link to
- [Seven a Day Early: Pictures I Found on My Camera](https://www.snoringscholar.com/seven-a-day-early-pictures-i-found-on-my-camera/) - Yes, I'm a day early. (Though if it's always 5:00 somewhere, isn't it Friday somewhere by now?) But I have to blog today so that he comes home on time and I have a review to post tomorrow and...and...and...well, I can go on. But I won't. How's that for a longwinded explanation of seven pictures
- [Quick Takes as a Daybook](https://www.snoringscholar.com/quick-takes-as-a-daybook/) - It's been a while since I've done a daybook, so why not, thought I, combine two of my favorite formats? :) --- Around the House --- It's Thursday as I type this (but you don't mind, do you?), and the house is quiet. There's the sound of Daniel Tiger as my mancub fights his nap and
- [The Friday Before...](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-friday-before/) - Before what, you ask? Well, before a lot of things, as it turns out... --- 1 --- ...the end of the Lenten CatholicMom.com Project. I don't know whether to get all psycho-optimistic or to be a bit realistic. Will we reach 1000 books funded? I dunno. We're running the campaign through Good Friday, March 29.
- [7 in Pictures](https://www.snoringscholar.com/7-in-pictures/) - I don't take as many pictures as I used to. But, because I think maybe my Number One Fan and some others of y'all might just, you know, need a break from my words...here you go: --- In bloom --- The apple trees: The redbud: The lilac in the farrrrr corner: --- Bouquets --- ---
- [Quick Takes of the Tall Corn Variety](https://www.snoringscholar.com/quick-takes-of-the-tall-corn-variety/) - Look! Two weeks in a row! Well, don't get tooooo used to that... :) --- 1 --- I'm trying to be more weekly about my giveaways. I mean, I can't read all these books, so I might as well share them, right? If you haven't entered, today's the last day for this one: --- 2 ---
- [This Week in Pictures](https://www.snoringscholar.com/week-pictures/) - It's been ENTIRELY too long since I've done a fun picture post. And hey, it's Quick Takes Friday! Double win! Add to that the fact that it's Friday in the Octave of Easter = bacon, baby!!! (Or ham, at the very least.) --- 1 --- --- 2 --- --- 3 --- --- 4 --- ---
- [Mom to Mom, Day to Day, by Danielle Bean](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mom-to-mom-day-to-day-by-danielle-bean/) - I hinted. I mentioned. I repeated the cycle…daily. I made sure there was no doubt about what the perfect Mother’s Day gift would be. And there it was, wrapped in white paper that my two-year-old had decorated: Danielle Bean’s new book, Mom to Mom, Day to Day. And though I was in the midst of
- [How Our Lady of Fatima Teaches Us to Say No to the Busy](https://www.snoringscholar.com/our-lady-of-fatima-teaches-us-to-say-no/) - Our Lady of Fatima holds many lessons for me. Here's what I've learned about saying No to the busy and Yes to God.
- [My Favorite Recipe: Notsanga](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-favorite-recipe-notsanga/) - Twice-modified from a Rachael Ray recipe.2 16oz cans of Spaghetti Sauce 1 lb short-cut pasta such as rotini or penne1 16oz bag of shredded cheese - mozzarella works best 1 lb of ground beef, sausage, or pepperoni (or omit the meat for a great Lenten Friday meal) 1 16-oz tub of ricotta cheese (or you
- [Born on Mary's Feast](https://www.snoringscholar.com/born-on-marys-feast/) - Being born on the feast of Mary, Mother of God is no small thing. This is the story of how my daughter was born on Mary's feast day.
- [2016 Books Read](https://www.snoringscholar.com/2016-books-read/) - These are books I've read in 2016.
- [Memorial to Timothy D. Betterly](https://www.snoringscholar.com/memorial-to-timothy-d-betterly/) - Those who knew him best remember his smile, his laugh, his joy in life. His daughters and their friends knew him as the “cool dad” down the street who was always throwing parties and dressing up in silly outfits. Anyone who was around him for any length of time, such as the manager at Sears
- [The Sorry State of My Sunglasses](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-sorry-state-of-my-sunglasses/) - It is when the sun starts making appearances this time of year that I find myself wondering why I don’t have any sunglasses. I squint and drive eastward in the mornings and scribble myself notes to buy sunglasses. Then, two or three or ten shopping trips later, the stars align and my memory of needing
- [Fantasy vs. Reality](https://www.snoringscholar.com/fantasy-vs-reality/) - What I Planned to Get Done Over the Weekend:Buy the new accessories for the glam new bathroom Prince Charming and Poppa Amazing have been finishing upClean of the Big Kitchen Table, including folding all laundry, putting said laundry away, and carrying the piles of to-go-upstairs stuff up the stairsClean the Middle Room, which was hit
- [Dangers of Whack-a-Mole Alarm Clock Management](https://www.snoringscholar.com/dangers-of-whack-a-mole-alarm-clock-management/) - In the midst of rushing to get up, you may forget something important when you finally stumble into the shower (like rinsing out the conditioner).You may not GET your shower, which may be a problem when the people around you smell you coming (due to three or four days of whack-a-mole).You will feel guilt for
- [Benefits of Whack-a-Mole Alarm Clock Management](https://www.snoringscholar.com/benefits-of-whack-a-mole-alarm-clock-management/) - You have an alarm clock, you have an arm – think of the money you’re saving! Just set the alarm and you have the game. No need to battle the lines at the store or search online. You’ve got the makings of fine entertainment right in your bedroom!You’re strengthening your arm through the reach-and-stretch from
- [Symptoms of Pregnancy](https://www.snoringscholar.com/symptoms-of-pregnancy/) - McDonald’s tastes good. So good, in fact, that you forego perfectly healthy pre-packed lunches in favor of a quick run over to grab a quarter pounder.You’re sleeping 20 hours a day, and wishing for more.You’re holding your two-year-old like a “little baby” and anticipating the small bundle.You’re not speaking in complete thoughts. “Bring me a.”
- [Reasons to Stay up Past Midnight](https://www.snoringscholar.com/reasons-to-stay-up-past-midnight/) - Because being pregnant can only be an excuse for so long before you need to come up with something else. There’s a good chance you’ll be up at some point with either a certain restless toddler sleeper or your bladder (which has become a trampoline for a certain fetal person who shall remain nameless). Might
- [Things to Make You Go Ewwww!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/things-to-make-you-go-ewwww/) - Floaters in the toilet that you later recognize as…well, never mind! Poopy in the pants that, when you take off said pants, smears under someone’s chubby feet all over a friend’s bathroom floor.Running out of wipes while out visitin’. You know, because you thought someone was pretty much potty-trained. That unidentified glob that came out
- [Time Flies When You're Blogging](https://www.snoringscholar.com/time-flies-when-youre-blogging/) - It's hard to believe, but I've been here a year! So, because I have nothing better to do (loud guffaws in the background as the dust bunnies get a little loud under the couch), I thought I'd compile a list of a few posts from the last year:My first post, a year ago today: God
- [Things They Don't Prepare You for in the Parenting Classes](https://www.snoringscholar.com/things-they-dont-prepare-you-for-in-the-parenting-classes/) - Wiping your hands off on your pants only to realize:a. you had just rinsed out poopy underpants,b. you have to leave right away to be on time,c. being on time is not more important than washing your handsBeing told "LUB YOOOOOOU" will fix everything, even at 2 AMTwo hours in a dark room, falling asleep
- [Jury Duty](https://www.snoringscholar.com/jury-duty/) - So I forgot to write my letter to get out of jury duty. And I have out-of-town company. But here’s the thing: I sort of felt like maybe I shouldn’t write a letter to get out of it. It’s part of the deal, right? Part of my civic responsibility. And while I am my child’s
- [Benefits of Cuddling with Toddlers](https://www.snoringscholar.com/benefits-of-cuddling-with-toddlers/) - If it’s a half-hour before the alarm clock’s going off and you’re not ready for Noggin yet, there are worse things than letting her into your bed. You never knew you needed so little pillow to fall asleep. The Laws of Toddler Physics state that the toddler shall own twice as much blanket and pillow
- [Hangin' In, Hangin' On](https://www.snoringscholar.com/hangin-in-hangin-on/) - So...I have folded laundry and done dishes for the first time since the break. I have spent my first full solo day with Toddler-tron (in progress). I guess that means I'm healing.However, typing is still...painful. And since I was a trooper and went in for around 40 hours this week (yeah, I know, I overdid
- [The Voices in My Head, an Introduction](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-voices-in-my-head-an-introduction/) - Yes, that’s right: “the voices in my head.” I have, in fact, come to the verge of naming them. One of them is the Narrator, the ever-present account of what’s going on, of what I am thinking during an event, of the background and detail of any given experience. I thought everyone had a Narrator
- [Sleeping In](https://www.snoringscholar.com/sleeping-in/) - I’m not usually a fan of sleeping in, for the same reasons that, as a child, I never wanted to sleep in the car on a long trip. I might miss something! Especially at this point in my life, when those early morning hours are golden opportunities to sit down with some peace and quiet,
- [No Names](https://www.snoringscholar.com/no-names/) - Him: I need the (3x5 note) cards with lines. I can't work without lines.Her: Yeah, in high school projects I liked lines, but when I'm just scribblin', I like 'em without lines.Him: Scribblin'? There's no time for scribblin'.Her: Oh, there has to be time for scribblin', or the wife goes crazy.Him: Oh, the wife was
- [Wordsmithing](https://www.snoringscholar.com/wordsmithing/) - I have found this to be great fun, and something that will confound those in your life who (or should it be "whom"?) you secretly want to bash with a broom (or kick, if they happen to be terrier-types who have recently given you a good filling-of-the-pants with their deep obnoxious unnecessary barks). I've only
- [Giving Up, Giving In, and Giving Back](https://www.snoringscholar.com/giving-up-giving-in-and-giving-back/) - I love Lent. That’s not an uncommon feeling in the blogosphere, at least the blogs I read, and it’s thanks to those blogs (and the podcasts I’ve been listening to lately too!) that my understanding and appreciation for Lent has grown recently.Lent has always been a journey for me, a chance to discover and to
- [Revving up for the Lenten Journey](https://www.snoringscholar.com/revving-up-for-the-lenten-journey/) - I am sharing this not-as-brief-as-I’d-like outline of my Lent plan here, because I find it helpful when I read about what other people do. Rather than always being the lurker who reads, I wanted to share. Take what inspires you, leave what doesn’t, and, if you feel called to, share your Lenten approach in the
- [Wash My Feet, Lord](https://www.snoringscholar.com/wash-my-feet-lord/) - One of my favorite liturgies of the year is the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday. I first went as a fairly new Catholic, three years into the adventure and in my first year as a parish secretary. When my nieces asked me if I would take them up to get their feet
- [Links for Lent](https://www.snoringscholar.com/links-for-lent/) - 1: Praying Lent I credit working for our parish and preparing our bulletin for my forward thinking this year about Lent. Creighton University's Online Ministries have long been a favorite resource for me, from their Online Retreat in Everyday Life (I blogged my way through it a couple of years ago), to their Praying Advent
- [A Different Perspective: A Series by an Atheist](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-different-perspective-a-series-by-an-atheist/) - It's Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent, and in my world, that means it's time for a different perspective. For me, Lent feels like it started at the beginning of the year. You might say I feel pretty ready for Lent. But I know I'm not. I never am, no matter what life has in
- [A Lenten Read](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-lenten-read/) - I've been meaning to read The Gargoyle Code since I read the beginnings of it on Fr. Dwight Longenecker's blog. For one thing, I love-love-LOVE The Screwtape Letters, by C.S. Lewis. Gargoyle had the same effect on me that Screwtape did, making me hungry in many ways for confession, making me consider the many ways
- [Finding Mary at the Mardi Gras Parades](https://www.snoringscholar.com/finding-mary-at-the-mardi-gras-parade/) - This Mary Moment Monday, I'm sharing my Mary Moment from last week's Catholic Moments. Call it the easy out. I need it today, so I'm taking it. I have never been a big fan of parades. They’ve always been sort of, well, disappointing. Maybe it’s that I know I can go buy all the candy
- [Lent with Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/lent-with-mary/) - Is Lent really almost at the halfway point? Really? The reminder I really need this year is that Lent can start at any point. I'm succeeding and failing in equal parts, making this a typical year in many ways. What I'm struggling with is different than last year, but the thing I'm succeeding with is
- [The Journey to Easter](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-journey-to-easter/) - Part of the Mary Moment Monday series This year, Holy Week feels different than it has in the past. Maybe I'm paying better attention. Maybe it's been the kind of year where I'm in the right kind of state of mind. Maybe I'm cooperating with some sort of grace. On Saturday morning, I went and
- [No Foolin](https://www.snoringscholar.com/no-foolin/) - Today is my favorite liturgical day of the year (Holy Thursday, not April Fools), but also one of the hardest for me in practice. It doesn't have to be; I could say No to having my feet washed at tonight's Mass. The thing is, I wouldn't be changed in the same way; I wouldn't have
- [Finding Silence in the Noise](https://www.snoringscholar.com/finding-silence-in-the-noise/) - It's going to be a day filled with activity and noise. We have a lot going on, from horseback riding to cookie decorating. Though it's a fast day, we'll be reveling even as we're thinking of His suffering. Shouldn't we be wearing sackcloth and walking around with some modicum of seriousness? Shouldn't I make sure
- [Anticipating Lent](https://www.snoringscholar.com/anticipating-lent/) - Part of the Mary Moment Monday series Finally! Lent! This week! I have REALLY been feeling my need for Lent. And it's made me think about why that is: Lent is, after all, usually very difficult. In that difficulty, though, I so often find fruit and, if I cooperate, grace to grow spiritually. In the
- [Seven Lenten Favorites](https://www.snoringscholar.com/seven-lenten-favorites/) - There are other Lenten resources in my sidebar, too, and they'll remain there until Easter (or whenever I remember to update). Last year, I highlighed seven Lenten links, too. Karen's Go-To Post I went to it. In fact, I go to it every year. Chock-full of great stuff, all easy to implement and very accessible
- [Offer It Up](https://www.snoringscholar.com/offer-it-up/) - Jenny from A Minute Captured is back with a reflection for us as we begin Lent. Many thanks, Jenny, for your guest post and for sharing your amazing photography! He tells the story from the pulpit a few years back. He tells how he hated to hear three words from his mother, "Offer it up."
- [Life in More than 140 Characters](https://www.snoringscholar.com/life-in-more-than-140-characters/) - A guest post by Christine Johnson, who's the woman behind Domestic Vocation and can also be found on Twitter (though not during Lent!). I discovered something almost three years ago: Facebook is not just for high school and college kids. It's a really neat tool to keep in touch with your family and friends of
- [Lent Mode](https://www.snoringscholar.com/lent-mode/) - Brian Miller (Bj) is a husband, father, and student of the New Evangeliztion. He is the Youth Minister at Seven Holy Founders Parish and Music Minister at Fontbonne University as well as the bass player for the Pete Buncher band. He can be found on Twitter as @the_bj. Sitting in a parish staff council meeting
- [A Look Back at This Lent](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-look-back-at-this-lent/) - It can all be summed up for me in this quote, which I received via Word of God Everyday: God speaks in the silence of the heart. Listening is the beginning of prayer. - Blessed Teresa of Calcutta For me, that silence of the heart often begins right after I throw up my hands and
- [Sacrifice of Praise](https://www.snoringscholar.com/sacrifice-of-praise/) - A guest post by Dan Sealana By this point in Lent, you likely have either mastered whatever Lenten sacrifice you promised you’d make or you’ve failed miserably. Perhaps, like me, you never even bothered to start. Whether you’re a Lent superstar or a Lenten slacker, I’m here to offer you an idea of a powerful
- [Lent Prep - A Book for Your Journey](https://www.snoringscholar.com/lent-prep-a-book-for-your-journey/) - I sat down to read Simplifying the Soul: Lenten Practices to Renew Your Spirit, by Paula Huston, with the intention of just reading the first section. Then I decided I could read the first couple of sections. And then I read the whole book. In my defense, I had a whole evening before me and I
- [Anything but Normal](https://www.snoringscholar.com/anything-but-normal/) - A guest post by Mary DeTurris Poust My teenage son came home from school last week and reported that he took his younger Catholic school “buddy” across the street to our parish church to walk him through the Stations of the Cross. After they were done and were getting ready to leave the church, Noah
- [Our Lady of Lent](https://www.snoringscholar.com/our-lady-of-lent/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I don't think I started really appreciating the role Mary plays in my Lenten experience until two years ago. That was the year of Mary at the Mardi Gras parade and Mary throughout my Lent (and Lent throughout my year, really). When faced with insurmountable challenges, Mary never fails to inspire
- [My Lenten Reading Plan, Already Modified](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-lenten-reading-plan-already-modified/) - On Friday, I outlined my Lenten reading plan. On Sunday, I read Cultivating God's Garden through Lent by Margaret Rose Realy and my Lenten reading plan changed. I didn't intend to read it all in one day, but it was one of those Sundays where I had both the time and the inclination. And the book
- [A Lenten Seven with Kathleen Basi](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-lenten-seven-with-kathleen-basi/) - --- Lent Comes to Life --- Today, I'm taking the chance to tell you about Kathleen Basi's wonderful Lenten book, Bring Lent to Life: Activities and Reflections for Your Family. It came out at about the same time my Welcome Risen Jesus came out from Liguori, and somehow (I blame my own preoccupation), I missed it when it
- [Accepting the Grace of Confession](https://www.snoringscholar.com/accepting-the-grace-of-confession/) - Why, oh why, do I procrastinate on the most important things, things like confession? It's not like I don't know better. I once took my spiritual director's advice and went through a stretch of going to confession once a month. I remember how, though life wasn't any easier, it was more intentional in many ways. My
- [How the Rice Bowl Helps Me Observe Lent](https://www.snoringscholar.com/how-the-rice-bowl-helps-me-observe-lent/) - One of my favorite parts of being Catholic during Lent has been the rice bowl program. It used to be Operation Rice Bowl, but this year it got a name change and a facelift: it's CRS Rice Bowl now, but the same great program by the same amazing people. I started paying attention to what
- [Lent doesn't HAVE to be hard](https://www.snoringscholar.com/lent-doesnt-have-to-be-hard/) - This month's activity at CatholicFamilyFun.com is titled, appropriately enough, "Lent Doesn't Have to be Hard." Lent doesn't have to be hard. Or that's what I like to think. Why, then, do I feel so overwhelmed when I'm faced with all the ideas out there? Why do I catch myself hiding from the inevitability of sharing
- [May Lent Inspire the Fire Within](https://www.snoringscholar.com/may-lent-inspire-the-fire-within/) - Ash Wednesday always has an effect on me. It's not just my struggle with fasting, but also my struggle with authority. I wanna do it my way. I wanna just go along, be happy and comfortable and unencumbered. The thing is, being comfortable and unencumbered usually aren't part of being happy, at least not the kind of
- [Lent: A Chance to Grow Closer to God](https://www.snoringscholar.com/lent-a-chance-to-grow-closer-to-god/) - There are two good things about February as far as I'm concerned this year: 1. It only has 28 days. 2. Lent begins. February is, so often, the longest month of the year for me. The days are short, the weather's cold, and we're stuck inside (unless we want to turn into popsicles). My motivation
- [Spending Lent with Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/spending-lent-mary/) - A few years ago, my Lent began in an unfamiliar house, face-to-face with a woman who was living my nightmare. On Epiphany that year, my sister-in-law faced a horror I still can’t imagine, one that topped her list of sorrows and that changed my prayer life forever. When her husband, my brother-in-law, died suddenly and
- [Lent at Ephesus: The Soundtrack of My Lent](https://www.snoringscholar.com/lent-ephesus-soundtrack-lent/) - I got my first CD from the Benedictines of Mary, Queen of the Apostles, Christmas at Ephesus, in the mail a number of years ago. I almost didn't open the envelope, but something about it caught my eye. And then...then I listened to it. I promptly sent a little donation to the sisters for the
- [Books for Lent](https://www.snoringscholar.com/books-lent/) - My reading time has been dissolved into something akin to “other people’s normal” lately, and it’s killing me. Even so, with Lent around the corner, I can’t help but look to my bookshelves for some inspiration. This year, maybe more than usual, I feel like I need some extra motivation. My motivation comes from books
- [Hello Lent! Hello Apps!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/hello-lent-hello-apps/) - What would Lent be without apps? Wait, don't answer that. I think I have a very dim memory... In any event, given the chance to write about appy things, I totally take it. I put together three apps I'll be using this Lent over at the Register. These are Lent-specific apps: I've thought already about
- [Yes, I did just say "Let's spend Lent with the devil."](https://www.snoringscholar.com/yes-just-say-lets-spend-lent-devil/) - But I only said it because Fr. Dwight Longenecker said it first. His new book, Slubgrip Instructs, is the subject of my latest post at the Register, where I not only review the book but also share an excerpt and some thoughts he shared with me when I interviewed him about it. It's a great book,
- [What I WON'T Be Doing for Lent](https://www.snoringscholar.com/wont-lent/) - I'm in a stretch that can only be called difficult. I can't really put my finger on it, but there it is. And here we are, in Lent. Insert some dramatic sighs. This is NOT a year where I'm all "Oh yay! Lent!" AT ALL. On Monday, I got together with a few people and
- [3 Apps that Go Beyond Lent](https://www.snoringscholar.com/3-apps-that-go-beyond-lent/) - I'm catching myself using three apps a lot more this Lent, but they're not specifically Lent-centric apps. Want to know what they are? Well then, head on over to my Register blog and have a read. :)
- [Wait, Where Did the Rest of Lent Go?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/wait-where-did-the-rest-of-lent-go/) - So I was standing in Mass today, watching my four-year-old wield a palm leaf weapon during the really really REALLY long Gospel when I realized something: Where did the rest of my Lent go? I was expecting to be in labor this week. As it turns out, and because of circumstances I'm not quite free to
- [Quick Takes Daybook: Lent, apps, and mercy](https://www.snoringscholar.com/16750/) - Here's a quick look at my life, including what I've been reading, an app I love, and a theme of mercy that I didn't intend to insert into this post. Enjoy!
- [A Different Walk for Lent: Fiction as Lenten Reading](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-different-walk-for-lent-fiction-as-lenten-reading/) - Have you ever considered fiction as Lenten reading? Michelle Buckman shares thoughts on that and what inspired her to write a novel that's perfect for Lent.
- [Books Read in 2011](https://www.snoringscholar.com/books-read-in-2011/) - These are the books I read in 2011.
- [Books Read in 2010](https://www.snoringscholar.com/books-read-in-2010/) - These are the books I read in 2010.
- [Books Read in 2009](https://www.snoringscholar.com/books-read-in-2009/) - These are the books I read in 2009.
- [Books Read in 2008](https://www.snoringscholar.com/books-read-in-2008/) - These are the books I read in 2008.
- [Books Read in 2007](https://www.snoringscholar.com/books-read-in-2007/) - These are the books I read in 2007.
- [Books Read in 2006](https://www.snoringscholar.com/books-read-in-2006/) - These are the books I read in 2006.
- [2012 Reading List](https://www.snoringscholar.com/books-read-in-2012/) - These are the books I read in 2012.
- [2013 Books Read](https://www.snoringscholar.com/2013-books-read/) - These are the books I read in 2013.
- [2014 Books Read](https://www.snoringscholar.com/2014-books-read/) - These are the books I read in 2014.
- [Marian Resources](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary/) - My devotion to Mary has grown over the years, and since I've been getting an increasing number of requests for my favorite Marian recommendations, here you go.
- [Preparing for Advent](https://www.snoringscholar.com/preparing-for-advent/) - My column from this weekend's parish bulletin: Though we have two weeks before Advent, I finally find myself preparing ahead of time for this season. I haven’t always been good at that. I often find myself, by about the second Sunday of Advent, wondering why I bother to try. I’m buried by long Christmas gift
- [The Gift of Advent](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-gift-of-advent/) - My column in this weekend's parish bulletin: This year, instead of dreading Christmas for the four weeks prior, instead of gripping the arms of my chair and stiffening my resolve, instead of grimacing and screaming, I’m trying a different approach. It’s one that involves observing Advent as something special. It’s also one that involves forgetting
- [Seven Advent Tips](https://www.snoringscholar.com/seven-advent-tips/) - I started thinking about Advent earlier this year, when I signed a contract to write a short book of reflections for Advent. But what got me thinking about Advent for real was Jen's post earlier this week asking for help. Her follow-up post, with 24 super-simple suggestions, is a must-read. Before I read that follow-up
- [The Jesse Tree, by Christine Johnson](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-jesse-tree-by-christine-johnson/) - I'm happy to once again welcome Christine Johnson, who blogs at Domestic Vocation and can also be found on Twitter, for a fabulous guest post about that most imposing (to me) of all Advent craftiness, the Jesse Tree. Here, Christine makes it approachable. If you're like me and this looks like the world's most imposing
- [Advent from Dad's Seat, by Jeff Hite](https://www.snoringscholar.com/advent-from-dads-seat-by-jeff-hite/) - Jeff Hite is the father of nine wonderful children, ranging in age from 13 to probably-born-yesterday (how cool is THAT?!). He and his wife teach Natural Family Planning for the Couple to Couple League and help with their parish marriage preparation program. You'll find him through Flying Island Press, a small press he and a
- [Ready for It to be OVER?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/ready-for-it-to-be-over/) - Six Tips on How to Lower Expectations for the Most Wonderful Time of the Year A guest post by Katharine Grubb, who's graced us with her wit, humor, and wisdom before. Katharine is a bread-making, novel-writing, homeschooling mother of five. She lives in the cold city of Boston, Massachusetts, and thinks her husband should trick
- [Going to See Jesus, by Lisa Schmidt](https://www.snoringscholar.com/going-to-see-jesus-by-lisa-schmidt/) - Lisa Schmidt, who blogs with her husband at The Practicing Catholic and tweets as @LisaAnnSchmidt, graciously shared this reflection for Advent. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. -- “We’re going to see Jesus!” my two-year old daughter Lucy joyfully proclaimed as we entered the church parking lot on the morning of
- [Songs of the Season, by Ebeth Weidner](https://www.snoringscholar.com/songs-of-the-season-by-ebeth-weidner/) - Ebeth Weidner and I first "met" because of the Catholic Carnivals of old. Her blog, "A Catholic Mom Climbing the Pillars," is chock full of mom-wisdom. She's also a regular columnist at CatholicMom.com. I was delighted when she offered to guest post an Advent reflection. Enjoy! -- With all the hurry and scurry of shopping,
- [The Big Wait, by Ginny Moyer](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-big-wait-by-ginny-moyer/) - I've been a fan of Ginny Moyer's for as long as I've known her (I interviewed a while back, if you're interested). Her wonderful book, Mary and Me, is one that I recommend wholeheartedly, and her blog is no less delightful (full of little boy stories, musings on Mary, and Catholic goodies to boot!). I'm
- [Getting Ready with Mary, Mother of Divine Providence](https://www.snoringscholar.com/getting-ready-with-mary-mother-of-divine-providence/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Advent's on my mind, which is good. And bad. I love to say that I hate Christmas (though no, I guess I don't, not really), and Advent means Christmas is getting closer. I've been preparing for an Advent talk I'm giving tonight, and there's the matter of that Advent book
- [Advent Approaches (7 Cool Resources)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/advent-approaches-7-cool-resources/) - A great way to be reminded that Advent is looming, in case you were wondering, is to agree to write an Advent book. In the last week, Advent has been very much on my mind (I've been preparing a talk for next week and I had an interview and there's that book thing). With Advent
- [The Gift of Penance, by Jeanine Spano](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-gift-of-penance-by-jeanine-spano/) - Today, we welcome Jeanine Spano back with a post that wraps up the guest series on Advent. I know it's not Advent any longer, but I scheduled her for this week and asked for an Advent post. What she shares touches me and is a great message, so, though it's not Advent any longer, I'm
- [An Advent book to help you grow](https://www.snoringscholar.com/an-advent-book-to-help-you-grow/) - When I saw a review copy Rediscover Advent, by Matthew Kelly in the envelope at the post office, I'll admit I was excited. Kelly's Rediscovering Catholicism was one of my favorite books from my 2008 reading and continues to be a book I recommend highly to others. Rediscover Advent is arranged to be a companion to daily Scripture reading during
- [Our Lady of Advent](https://www.snoringscholar.com/our-lady-of-advent/) - A Mary Moment Monday post What was Mary doing 2000 years ago? What was her Advent like? I came across a quote by Papa the other day, and it made me reflect on Advent and Mary in a whole new way. Let us turn our gaze and our heart to him, in spiritual union with the
- [5 Ways to Give Your Family a Peaceful Advent](https://www.snoringscholar.com/5-ways-to-give-your-family-a-peaceful-advent/) - By Jennifer Fitz To prepare the way for our Lord, John the Baptist withdrew into the desert to fast and pray. We try to imitate that model of self-mortification every Advent, loading ourselves down with parties, shopping, and Holiday Preparations. Surely getting the whole family into matching Christmas sweaters is the new Hair Shirt, right?
- [Wordless Wednesday: Crooked Candles, Straightening Hearts](https://www.snoringscholar.com/wordless-wednesday-crooked-candles-straightening-hearts/) - Don't forget to send a picture of YOUR Advent wreath for tomorrow's Advent Wreath Carnival!
- [Gaudete and Guadalupe](https://www.snoringscholar.com/gaudete-and-guadalupe/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Yesterday was Gaudete Sunday, the third Sunday of Advent, the one with the pink candle. And today is the feast of my homegirl, Our Lady of Guadalupe. Rejoice! By the third week of Advent, I'm usually ready to decorate: I'm either resigned to the fact that Christmas is coming or,
- [Getting Past Hating Christmas](https://www.snoringscholar.com/getting-past-hating-christmas/) - It happens every year: I catch myself saying, with varying level of drama, “I HATE CHRISTMAS!” My husband points out, every year, that this simply isn’t true. “You know you love it,” he gently reminds me. He has a point. I don’t really HATE Christmas. In fact, it is at Midnight Mass—or thanks to the
- [Light a Candle](https://www.snoringscholar.com/light-a-candle/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I can't pretend that I've been really easy to be around lately. I'm pretty impressed that my husband still smiles at me, my mother-in-law will still speak with me, and that my children still seem okay with my presence. Then again, all of that assumes that they are as grinchy and
- [Six Advent Resources and One Giveaway of Welcome Baby Jesus](https://www.snoringscholar.com/six-advent-resources-and-one-giveaway-of-welcome-baby-jesus/) - I've accepted it: Advent is coming. And soon. Maybe it's been made easier by how busy I've been over the last six weeks. The busy of this coming season will be a calmer version (with food! and song! and family get-togethers!). I know I won't succeed trying to use all of these resources, but I
- [The Season for...What?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-season-for-what/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Tis the season. Everyone’s out shopping for that special something for everyone on their list. We are all busy, running around like worker bees, catching ourselves coming and going. There are Christmas programs and holiday recitals and parties and gatherings and a long list of things to do. In the
- [Spending Advent with Mary: Two Books to Guide You Closer to Christ](https://www.snoringscholar.com/spending-advent-with-mary-two-books-to-guide-you-closer-to-christ/) - A Mary Moment Monday post If you're like me, the fact that the Second Sunday of Advent has come and gone doesn't mean you have your Advent figured out. (If you're not like me, feel free to brew some coffee and smile.) This year, somehow, despite all the usual floundering, I've found myself with an
- [Advent in 7](https://www.snoringscholar.com/advent-in-7/) - --- 1 --- Remember last year's Advent wreath link-up? I just stumbled across that post the other day and thought, hey! Let's do that again! What you do: Take a picture of your Advent wreath. How you participate: Option 1: Post your picture to your blog and send me the link to that post via Twitter, Facebook, Google+, email, or
- [Mary at the Manger](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-at-the-manger/) - A local farm near us does a reenactment of the Christmas Story every year, loading folks up on wagons and driving them to different stations. One station replays the Annunciation and then the appearance of the angel to Joseph, reassuring him that he should marry Mary. The next shows Mary and Joseph arriving in Bethlehem,
- [Advent Wreath Link-Up Fun [with updates]](https://www.snoringscholar.com/advent-wreath-link-up-fun/) - Welcome to this year's Advent Wreath Link-Up! We're past the halfway point of Advent, and this Sunday, we'll be putting up our Christmas decorations. I don't know how I've held off my deco-happy kids this long, except that they are enjoying the "lighting things on fire and reading out loud and watching toddler brother freak
- [God's in My Gadgets; Mary's in My Advent](https://www.snoringscholar.com/gods-gadgets-marys-advent/) - Did someone just say the A-word? And was it me? (I have a book all about that, as a matter of fact.) As it turns out, Advent's on my mind: If you’re like me, you find yourself, so often, at the beginning of Advent with a glassy stare and a list that’s longer than Santa’s.
- [Down-Home Explanation of Our Lady of Perpetual Help](https://www.snoringscholar.com/home-explanation-lady-perpetual-help/) - A Mary Moment Monday post In my reading of Ora et Labora et Zombies (a novel that comes in the mail, as letters!) last week, I found myself struck by this explanation of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. It's found in letter 65. "Even Jesus, in his human side, was scared enough of the cross
- [Advent Links (for the Ladies from St. Bartholomew in Cincinnati)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/advent-links-ladies-st-bartholomew-cincinnati/) - I think I had the MOST FUN I have EVER had at a talk tonight. And I couldn't find my camera before I left home and I have no audio to share and...well, you'll just have to believe me. I did, however, tweet my set-up pic (from my non-smartphone): So, for those of you who
- [My Advent Wreath](https://www.snoringscholar.com/advent-wreath/) - I'm sharing my Advent wreath here as part of the link-up over at CatholicMom.com. I'm a huge fan of the Advent wreath, and, in fact, I have a whole talk I give centered around it. Advent wreaths are fun for a lot of reasons, and I think, for me, it comes down to this: flames
- [Confessions of an Advent Slacker and Interview with a Sister](https://www.snoringscholar.com/confessions-advent-slacker-interview-sister/) - Hey! It's Advent! And though I have an Advent book and all, I don't want you to think I have the secret sauce of Advent. Not in the least. Confession: many years, I’m a self-appointed Advent slacker. I can’t seem to pull myself up to the levels of excellence it seems that “Good Catholic Moms”
- [Advent Wreath Trifecta [Updated]](https://www.snoringscholar.com/advent-wreath-trifecta/) - I offered to host Advent wreaths for people who don't have blogs for the Advent Wreath link-up over at CatholicMom.com. So far, I've had three four submissions, so I'm posting them now and will post any others in a new post. (Note: if you're looking for mine, it's in a different post.) Feast your eyes on
- [Face-to-Face with the Reality of Advent](https://www.snoringscholar.com/face-face-reality-advent/) - He stood there, transfixed, his head titled back, looking up. He was right in front of the altar, his trucks and tractors forgotten behind him. “Mommy, what happened to him? Who hurt him?” he said, finally turning to look at me. “That’s Jesus,” I said. “He died on the cross.” “But why? Why did the
- [Christmas Still Means Hope](https://www.snoringscholar.com/christmas-still-means-hope/) - I've had perhaps the worst Advent in the history of ever in terms of doing what I set out to do. Though the kids have checked the Advent calendar each day, we have a to-do pile of the things we haven't done. (So, on second thought, more candy, less to-do things on that list for
- [Caught By Surprise (Again) by Advent: Some New Stuff, Some Old Stuff](https://www.snoringscholar.com/caught-by-surprise-again-by-advent-some-new-stuff-some-old-stuff/) - In case I'm not the only one who's caught by surprise (again!) by Advent, here are some resources and tips that may help you. I'd love to hear what you'll be using this Advent, too!
- [Why Yes, I *Did* Fail at Advent (Again)...and Here's What I Learned](https://www.snoringscholar.com/why-yes-i-did-fail-at-advent-again-and-heres-what-i-learned/) - It was a fail of an Advent...or was it? Here's what I learned this year after another Epic Fail.
- [Catechist Resources](https://www.snoringscholar.com/catechist/) - This is a listing of catechist resources I've found helpful over the years. Hope it helps you!
- [Well, the time must be soon...](https://www.snoringscholar.com/well-the-time-must-be-soon/) - ...because there is no other reason I can think of for not wanting to blog. I mean, not wanting to get off the couch is one thing. Taking two naps a day and going to bed an hour early, that might just have to do with shorter days and a warm-thanks-to-the-woodstove house. Not wanting to
- [Home...](https://www.snoringscholar.com/home/) - ...and reality hasn't set in. For one thing, some kind soul noticed I listed the new baby as over 8 lb (now corrected - she was only 7 lb, 4 oz). For another, all that nesting I didn't do is waiting on me, and I just really can't do it. So reality can't set in
- [Tough Love](https://www.snoringscholar.com/tough-love/) - This is going to take some getting used to. (Or it might end up in the garbage.)I think I'd rather have tea...or let the baby have some awake time...
- [We Now Return to Regularly Scheduled Blogging…](https://www.snoringscholar.com/we-now-return-to-regularly-scheduled-blogging/) - Hiatus is defined, according to dictionary.com, as “a break or interruption in the continuity of a work, series, action, etc.” And that’s just what I’ve been doing…breaking and interrupting. I’ve been breaking my sleep habits and making new ones; breaking in to the life as mom of two; breaking the dog of the urge to
- [Hair Therapy](https://www.snoringscholar.com/hair-therapy/) - Sometimes, after a rough day, there is only one thing that can help. (If you’re a nursing mom, then you probably won’t turn to the liquor stash. Then again, you might. I’ll admit, at the risk of shame, being sorely tempted!) The offer will seem too good to be true, and maybe you’ll feel like
- [As we enter the holiday shopping season...](https://www.snoringscholar.com/as-we-enter-the-holiday-shopping-season/) - Heavenly Father, help us remember that the jerk who cut us off in traffic last night is a single mother who worked nine hours that day and is rushing home to cook dinner, help with homework, do the laundry and spend a few precious moments with her children.Help us to remember that the pierced, tattooed,
- [Wishing You This Kind of Day](https://www.snoringscholar.com/wishing-you-this-kind-of-day/) - Whether you celebrate on the Eve or on the Day,Whether you're away from family or surrounded by loving hands,Whether you are near or far,May the Infant Jesus bring you light and joy this Christmas.
- [New Year’s Resolutions I WON’T be Making](https://www.snoringscholar.com/new-years-resolutions-i-wont-be-making/) - (Subtitled “Things You Won’t Hear Me Saying This Year”)“Sure, honey, you can eat all the chocolate.”“Coffee? Never drink the stuff.”“Um, no, we don’t have any Chips Ahoy or Nutter Butters in the house.” (At least, I won’t be saying this in a well-ordered universe...)“I’d LOVE to go to the store!”“Shopping? Sounds like a great way
- [Should vs. Will](https://www.snoringscholar.com/should-vs-will/) - What I Should Do TodayFold laundryPay billsHelp take the “jumpoline” downPick up and straighten upOrganize my deskClean up the embarrassing state of disorganization known as our office/denWhat I’m Going to Do TodaySnuggle the babyWrite and blogEat a big breakfastSip coffee all morningRead and read and readSnuggle the not-toddler-anymorePray in the odd moments throughout the day,
- [In Case You Were Wondering...](https://www.snoringscholar.com/in-case-you-were-wondering/) - ...how we would be cheering...
- [Thanks and thanks and THANKS!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/thanks-and-thanks-and-thanks/) - To Alexa, for tweaking my template AGAIN, and making it look just perfectly snowflakey and wintery. I feel a little chill. Oh wait, that's the old farmhouse...To Esther, who made my cool signature dragonfly thing a while back. Though it's not snowflakey and wintery, it is ME. To a T. Or I'd like to THINK
- [iWeekend](https://www.snoringscholar.com/iweekend/) - Yes, that's right. With the Christmas present sort of figured out (*pause for guffaws*) and the birthday present all geared up with podcasts, it was a weekend filled with podcasts and togetherness and bookshelving. There are things clattering around in my head, in particular a reflection on quilts (there might actually be two of them!),
- [I'm Just Sayin](https://www.snoringscholar.com/im-just-sayin/) - Just so you know, those of you who pop in every so often and love it here, keep stopping in. But if you notice that there's a little bit more silence this week than there usually is, it's because Babs seems to be coming down with something and it's feeling like time to take a
- [Desperate Measures](https://www.snoringscholar.com/desperate-measures/) - We're at our wits' end, and so here I am...BEGGING. How, oh how, do you get your "slightly" stubborn and strong-willed three-year-old to take her medicine?Tips, oh wise ones, are needed. She and I and Daddy are not having a good time of it (and we haven't been, ever since Thursday when the helpful nurse
- [What Makes the Weekend Go Round](https://www.snoringscholar.com/what-makes-the-weekend-go-round/) - A messy house as proof of a weekend spent in itFinishing a good bookFalling asleep two nights in a row trying to watch a movie with hubbyTwo sick kidsThe medicine miracle - even though Prince Charming was indisposed (nearly throwing up with some sort of virus that reared its head late in the day on
- [A New Face Round These Parts](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-new-face-round-these-parts/) - You might notice some posts that are not by me in the coming days. I have invited Heather (of the lovely barn pictures) to guest blog in this space about her very first Lent and the revelations she's having as she prepares to join the Church in Easter.
- [Wordless Wednesday: Something Warm](https://www.snoringscholar.com/wordless-wednesday-something-warm/) - (Yes, that's a saucer. I just love saucers. They're worth their very own post.)(Pitty-pat, pitty-pat)
- [Unsolved Mysteries](https://www.snoringscholar.com/unsolved-mysteries/) - Where did that $20 on the fridge come from?Do the people in charge of the time change have kids?Is it spring yet?If it snows and no one measures it, will it melt faster?Is cutting the tangle out of an unnamed person in my house’s hair cheating?How long will it take for 20 inches of snow
- [For the Record](https://www.snoringscholar.com/for-the-record/) - Despite how the last section sounded, we're still friends. Better than ever. He's not just my go-to guy. He's my best friend. I wouldn't have it any other way.(Yes, honey, this post is for you!)
- [On Memes and Time and Loving Y'all](https://www.snoringscholar.com/on-memes-and-time-and-loving-yall/) - I love memes. No, I do. If you happen to be the kind person who tagged me back (ahem) before Lent (on Wednesday, December 19, specifically), you might not believe me. If you happen to be one of the three who tagged me in the last two days, you might wonder if there's any hope
- [To the Postman](https://www.snoringscholar.com/to-the-postman/) - Thank you, dear postman, for bringing my copy yesterday. And now, dear friends, I bid you adieu as I curl up in the sunshine and abandon all work that needs done in favor of reading this issue!
- [For the Love of Lists](https://www.snoringscholar.com/for-the-love-of-lists/) - I make my lists, though I know the things may or may not get done. My weekend list, for example, does not include “put away the laundry that’s been patiently waiting in baskets for nearly a week,” though I’ll try to do that if the circumstances cooperate and the motivation remains. That same list does
- [Call Me Silver](https://www.snoringscholar.com/call-me-silver/) - A dear friend of mine, who I think of as the gentle "Mary" in my life, sent this to me in an email. I'm sharing it here, because otherwise I would be sending out 100 emails. :)Read this, and remember, you moms out there, you do enough.There was a group of women in a Bible
- [AWOL](https://www.snoringscholar.com/awol-2/) - If you have been so kind and gracious as to leave a comment lately, THANK YOU.If you have noticed that I have not replied, please accept my apology. I'm buried (in good things) and just haven't gotten around to it.That said, have yourself a happy Friday! :)
- [Derivation to a New Level](https://www.snoringscholar.com/derivation-to-a-new-level/) - Perhaps not appropriate to Sunday posting, but irresistible for me not to share. Found via my math-minded uncle. :)
- [The Little Parish that Could...](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-little-parish-that-could/) - I've talked before about our little parish here in Ohio. It really is an amazing place, and I have been truly blessed to spend the better part of the last ten years "turning Catholic" here, getting married here, working here, and now, raising children here.The diocesan paper did a center-page write-up about this little parish,
- [To Do](https://www.snoringscholar.com/to-do/) - Finish packing. (You mean that can be FINISHED?)Look for that list of things not to forget to pack. Sigh and decide to recreate it.Wonder idly if baby is sick or teething after sleepless night of much Tylenol.Run errands while helpful teenage babysitter plays with oldest, including trip to grocery, dry cleaner, and - oh dear,
- [Day of Departure](https://www.snoringscholar.com/day-of-departure/) - First things first...Must drink coffee.Must pay bills.Must drink more coffee.Must deal with baby.Must deal with three-year-old.Must drink coffee.Must do laundry (thanks to a strange streak of bed-wetting, which has me wondering, not all that idly, what I will do when it's a hotel bed, or a kind friend's bed, that she's wetting...).Must read some blogs
- [Silence is Golden](https://www.snoringscholar.com/silence-is-golden/) - Today is the Catholic New Media Celebration. Woohoo!After 500-some miles and ten-plus hours in the car with three small children and an infant, well, I don't have much to say that hasn't already been said in the beginning of this sentence. :) Maybe I'll be able to blog later on today or tomorrow. Adventures should
- [Catholics Getting Cranky](https://www.snoringscholar.com/catholics-getting-cranky/) - Have you ever noticed how any group of people will stop getting along at some point? Catholics are no exception. (I mean, if Catholics had kept getting along, there would only be one Christianity, right?)For example, a dear friend of mine has these terrific insights on motherhood. She shared some of them in an article,
- [For Our Staff Meeting](https://www.snoringscholar.com/for-our-staff-meeting/) - Every Wednesday, we have a staff meeting at the parish where I work. We rotate cooking responsibilities, and this week it's my turn.Lucky for me, Fr. Leo has taken care of the menu. (Wasn't that nice of him?)(For those of you reading by email and in feed readers, you may have to click through to
- [Been There, Read That](https://www.snoringscholar.com/been-there-read-that/) - But have you? (Sneak peek here.) It's one of the three magazines I actually read (and therefore subscribe to).
- [Online Retreat in Everyday Life](https://www.snoringscholar.com/online-retreat-in-everyday-life/) - A couple of years ago, I discovered (thanks to a fellow blogger) the Online Retreat in Everyday Life. I was reminded about it recently because of something intangible (a whisper of the Holy Spirit, perhaps?), and lo and behold, to do it in conjunction with the liturgical year, you start on September 14. I even
- [Answers](https://www.snoringscholar.com/answers/) - No, we don't have electricty (yet).No, we don't know when we'll get it. (Last night, heard it could be the 25th (eight! days!); this morning heard 12 days (twelve! days! the 29th?!)No, I haven't lost my mind (yet).No, I'm not complaining (much), though I am sighing dramatically quite a bit.No, you shouldn't feel sorry for
- [For You Bibliophiles](https://www.snoringscholar.com/for-you-bibliophiles/) - The "Reviewer Dude" (aka Chris Cash) from the Catholic Company emailed to say "things have been going so well with the review program that we are now open to accepting more reviewers. We had originally said that 50 would be the most we could handle, but the new ordering/reporting system is making it possible for
- [Be Warned, Bibliophobes!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/be-warned-bibliophobes/) - I have spent hours today writing reviews...and this week will be "book review catch-up week."I'm just sayin. :)
- [Save Yourself Some Money](https://www.snoringscholar.com/save-yourself-some-money/) - I just got this in an email, and in a bout of efficiency that downright scares me, I'm sharing it with y'all, in case you might be interested.The Catholic Company has a special offer this week for your blog readers. We are offering free shipping from now until Midnight Sunday...on any size order.1. Simply place
- [Purse-ology](https://www.snoringscholar.com/purse-ology/) - I posted a while back (as in two years ago!) about how the contents of my purse have changed. For one thing, I never used to carry a purse, preferring to stick my driver's license and money/debit cards in a back pocket of the inevitable pair of jeans. When Jen did a photo shoot post
- [Morning People vs. Early Risers](https://www.snoringscholar.com/morning-people-vs-early-risers/) - First Things Morning Person: Leaps out of bed singing with the birds. Early Riser: Up early, yes. It's still dark, yes. There. Is. No. Song. Coffee Morning Person: Doesn't really need the coffee. Early Riser: Coffee. Is. Not. Optional. Attitude Toward Life Morning Person: Happy, cheerful, alert. Early Riser: Why are you asking about attitude
- [What's in your iTunes?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/whats-in-your-itunes/) - Who are your favorite Catholic or Christian (or, for that matter, modest-non-offensive) artists?I need to do some music shopping for a young lady (tween-aged) in my life who loves to dance with the music blaring in the front room (she's a future ballerina/princess/cowboy/doctor, in case you were wondering). Her mother, on the other hand, is
- [Insight from Above via Prince Charming](https://www.snoringscholar.com/insight-from-above-via-prince-charming/) - I've just been "off my feed" lately. Well, that's not quite the right way to phrase it, I suppose, because I'm eating just fine. But mentally...well, mentally it's a different story. You might not have noticed, even if you've seen me recently. I'm a master at hiding it. (Then again, I'm probably not quite the
- [the things we do](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-things-we-do/) - ...for Technorati. Sigh. Here's that code I'm supposed to publish: xnrjtwh5qv
- [The Second Attempt at a Wednesday Post](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-second-attempt-at-a-wednesday-post/) - This isn't quite as wordless as my last attempt, but...it is just as awesome. If you don't see an embedded video below, you can see it here. Courtesy of my husband and Steve Nelson
- [Called Out of the Office...](https://www.snoringscholar.com/called-out-of-the-office/) - ...by "real life"... (Yes, I've already used this picture once this week. But it still cracks me up. So here it is again.) So you enjoy the rest of the blogosphere and the lovely weather, why don't ya? I hope to be back to regularly scheduled blogging by Friday! (No worries, ye who tend that
- [Your Chance to Chat Live with Teresa Tomeo](https://www.snoringscholar.com/your-chance-to-chat-live-with-teresa-tomeo/) - This is too cool not to share! This Monday, November 7, at 8 PM Eastern, Ignatius Press is hosting Teresa Tomeo online for a live chat. She'll host a LiveStream web chat to discuss her new book, Extreme Makeover: Women Transformed By Christ, Not Conformed to the Culture (which is on my reading pile and should
- [My Highest Recommendation for Jeff Young](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-highest-recommendation-for-jeff-young/) - See this face? This is the face of a trustworthy man who has become like a brother to me. [He is not, in fact, my brother, except through baptism. :)] You might know Jeff Young better as the Catholic Foodie. He and I have worked together for some time in that space (Mary in the
- [Holy Sweat Socks, Batman!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/holy-sweat-socks-batman/) - Last week, my 8th-grade niece was attempting to stop my life in its tracks with her request for help with a seemingly impossible math assignment. My husband, who is Mr. Math Help Extraordinaire, was working late. My kids, who were being entertained by a very thoughtful grandma, were bouncing off the walls. My niece, who
- [Looking for Apps?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-apps/) - In case you were looking for that listing of apps I made after my guest appearance on Kresta in the Afternoon last week, here you go. Enjoy!
- [Commercials Worth Rewatching (No, Really)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/commercials-worth-rewatching-no-really/) - In the spirit of "this is my blog and I shall share the things I want to find again," I hereby present my two favorite commercials, the ones that, when they come on TV during our regularly scheduled football programming, have him rewinding and replaying of his own accord. I kid you not. Thanks to the
- [A Laugh for Thursday](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-laugh-for-thursday/) - ...because, though I rarely click through on videos on blogs, Michelle said it was hilarious. And she was right.
- [Blogs from CNMC MMX Attendees](https://www.snoringscholar.com/blogs-from-cnmc-mmx-attendees/) - I promised a listing from my session at the Catholic New Media Celebration, and here it is. Thanks to y'all for making it a great session and for inspiring my work here. Thanks too for everyone who made me feel comfortable and like I belonged (as opposed to feeling like out-of-place 7th-grader finding herself mistakenly
- [Author Blogs from CWCO [updated]](https://www.snoringscholar.com/author-blogs-from-cwco/) - I'm teaching a forum and leading two chats on blogging at the Catholic Writers Conference Online this week, and, as I did with the Catholic New Media Celebration, I wanted to share the list of participant's blogs with you. A big welcome to those popping in to check out my space on the web. (It's
- [Snowy Saturday Daybook](https://www.snoringscholar.com/snowy-saturday-daybook/) - Outside my window: Snow! On the ground! Around the house: There's a pile of people--Daddy and girls--on my couch, watching a movie. The boy is dragging a stool around the kitchen counters, seeing what fun he can find. What I've been writing: I've been treading water and keeping up with my weekly commitments. I have
- [A Mother's Tears](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-mothers-tears/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I've been thinking about this post since Friday afternoon, when my mother-in-law got a call from my sister-in-law about what had happened in Connecticut. Then, a friend on Facebook started a prayer movement. But...what can I say? What can I add? All I have is a title. And a mental
- [Catholic App-a-holic Talks Nonstop](https://www.snoringscholar.com/catholic-app-holic-talks-nonstop/) - So I was on with Al Kresta today and I was totally outed that: 1. I do not have a smartphone. (And I don't really want one.) 2. I don't have a device right now, either. (Thank you, Destructoboy.) But yes, I am still an app-a-holic. And because I am all about helping others to
- [Looking for Apps? Here Ya Go.](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-apps-ya-go/) - Just heard that Al Kresta is re-airing the interview this afternoon that I did with him a few weeks ago about Catholic apps. You can listen live between 4-6 p.m. ET by clicking the LISTEN LIVE button in the right-hand corner of the Ave Maria Radio website. In the interview, you'll find out that: 1.
- [Online Reteat in Everyday Life - My Reflections](https://www.snoringscholar.com/online-reteat-in-everyday-life-my-reflections/) - If you've tried clicking before and have been redirected, I apologize for the inconvenience. I updated the links on February 6, 2010, so they are current. Technology is great...most of the time. :) Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 - Perspective and Power Week 4 - Life in Harmony Week 5 - Old Farmhouse and
- [Tis the Season for Photos](https://www.snoringscholar.com/tis-the-season-for-photos/) - It was buried under a pile of papers on his desk, a treasure waiting to be shared. He was looking for something else, and when I walked by and saw the photo book I had made him for his birthday in 2006, I couldn't resist. I took it to the couch and instantly had both
- [Because #Art4Sarah Inspires Me to Hope](https://www.snoringscholar.com/art4sarah-inspires-hope/) - Funny where you find hope sometimes, isn't it? Birth of a baby, check. New fallen snow, sure. Family facing rare chromosomal anonomoly...whaaaa? But that's exactly where I found hope. As I read about the Ewings' story and their struggles, I couldn't help but get more and more intrigued. You can read more about it in
- [eCatholic = Rockin Awesome](https://www.snoringscholar.com/ecatholic-rockin-awesome/) - Being a parish webmaster is not an easy task. It is, in fact, nearly impossible. Which makes the work the folks at eCatholic are doing even more important. In case you're not familiar with them, here's a bit about them: eCatholic was launched in late 2005 in order to provide Catholic parishes, schools, and other ministries
- [A Book for Your Beach Bag: Barefoot Summer](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-book-for-your-beach-bag-barefoot-summer/) - Normally, late August is a fine time to set up at a beach or by a body of water here in Ohio. It's usually hot and hot and hot. Though it's not been that way this August, I still find myself looking for some beach reads. And I found a good one in Barefoot Summer, by
- [My 2013 Saint](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-2013-saint/) - I love the practice of getting a saint for each new year. I had forgotten all about it this year, but Maria Johnson reminded me. My saint for 2013 is... Saint Isidore the Farmer! Ahhhh, a smile. Oh yes. He makes sense in so many ways. Adding him to my litany. Hop on over to
- [Guest Posting Guidelines](https://www.snoringscholar.com/guest-posting-guidelines/) - I've had a number of people approach me about guest posting. I thought I'd include a few tips here for anyone who is interested in being considered for guest posting. Take a look at some of the other guest posts I've had here over the years. Usually, when I ask for guest posts (often through
- [Wordless Wednesday: Look What She Found](https://www.snoringscholar.com/wordless-wednesday-look-what-she-found/) - (But, if you want words, go here and prepare to laugh (and think).)
- [My New Best Buddy Saint: Publius](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-new-best-buddy-saint-publius/) - I don't have time, while the baby digs into a basket she shouldn't really be in and the three-year-old plays princess-explorer-schoolteacher, to do a lot of research, but I just had to share my saint for 2009 with you: St. Publius. Pray for the sickIn the vicinity of that place were lands belonging to a
- [Spending a Year in Good Company](https://www.snoringscholar.com/spending-a-year-in-good-company/) - For the last two years, I have enjoyed the whatever-you-want-to-call-it where a saint picks you, thanks to Matthew at A Catholic Life. It's moved, this year, to its own blog, and I found it through Esther, though I think it was Julie who reminded me about it. (A note: I'm pretty sure Julie's link, to
- [Chummin with Saint Vitus](https://www.snoringscholar.com/chummin-with-saint-vitus/) - I recently came across a pick your own saint posting by Moneybags at A Catholic Life. So, being adventurous (and highly curious), I wrote and asked to have a saint pick me.Saint Vitus, I think we’re going to be chummy for the next few months of this year and happily ever after. I’m not entirely
- [Does this mean I'll find my mind? A year with St. Anthony can't hurt!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/does-this-mean-ill-find-my-mind-a-year-with-st-anthony-cant-hurt/) - Moneybags at A Catholic Life is hosting the Saint of the Year Devotion again this year. What is the Saint of the Year Devotion?I want to tell you about the practice of picking a saint at random to be your “holy protector” for the year. Actually, the saint is the one who chooses us though.
- [Ungifted: Here's Why 11-Year-Old Fern Calls It a 5-Star Read](https://www.snoringscholar.com/ungifted-heres-11-year-old-fern-calls-5-star-read/) - Fern (age 11) reads and reviews Ungifted, by Gordon Korman. Turns out she loves it, and what she has to say piques my interest, too!
- [6 People Every Mom's Met at Mass](https://www.snoringscholar.com/6-people-every-moms-met-mass/) - There are at least 6 people every mom's met at Mass...each of them inspiring a different prayer response...
- [Celebrating Our Lady of the Rosary...and an Interview](https://www.snoringscholar.com/celebrating-lady-rosary-interview/) - An essay about Mary and the Rosary to celebrate today's feast of Our Lady of the Rosary...and a bonus link to an interview I forgot all about that posted today at Aleteia.
- [One-Minute Reviews: Taste and See and Beautiful Mercy](https://www.snoringscholar.com/one-minute-reviews-taste-see-beautiful-mercy/) - Two short reviews (with links to my longer reviews of each) of books I've read and enjoyed recently: Beautiful Mercy, edited by Matthew Kelly, and Taste and See, by Ginny Kubitz Moyer.
- [Olivia and the Little Way: A 5-Star Read, Says My Daughter](https://www.snoringscholar.com/olivia-and-the-little-way-5-star-read-says-daughter/) - Fern (age 11) reads Olivia and the Little Way and gives it a hearty 5 stars.
- [Becoming the Veteran Mom and Seven Habits for Moms](https://www.snoringscholar.com/veteran-mom-seven-habits-for-moms/) - I realized recently that I'm a "veteran mom" and then I got to thinking about the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People...so here's a dose of encouragement to all of the other moms out there!
- [One Minute Reviews of Perfect Blindside, Iota, and Lord of the World](https://www.snoringscholar.com/one-minute-reviews-perfect-blindside-iota-lord-world/) - In which I share short reviews of three recent novels I've read and a link to my full reviews over at the Register.
- [Erin McCole-Cupp and Unclaimed](https://www.snoringscholar.com/erin-mccole-cupp-unclaimed/) - A bit about a book I not only enjoyed reading, but that finds me demanding the next in the series, and interview with author Erin McCole-Cupp.
- [Barely a Crime: Reading to Keep You on the Edge of Your Seat](https://www.snoringscholar.com/barely-a-crime-review/) - Are you looking for summer reading? Or great anytime reading? You'll find all that and more in Barely a Crime, newly released from Robert Ovies.
- ['Frindle' by Andrew Clements: 5 Stars from My Girls](https://www.snoringscholar.com/frindle-andrew-clements-5-stars-girls/) - Fern (age 11) and Charlotte (age 8) share their review of 'Frindle,' a middle grade novel by Andrew Clements.
- [My Girls Review 'Libby of High Hopes' by Elise Primavera](https://www.snoringscholar.com/kids-review-libby-of-high-hopes/) - Fern (age 11) and Charlotte (age 8) share their thoughts about 'Libby of High Hopes,' a middle grade novel by Elise Primavera.
- [From Dismissive to Catholic...How'd THAT Happen?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/from-dismissive-to-catholic-howd-that-happen/) - Just how did Kevin Lowry go from being a dismissive-of-religion party boy to being a faithful Catholic? He's here to share a bit and introduce his newest book.
- [Dying for Revenge: A Book Full of Surprises (and Truth)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/dying-revenge-book-full-surprises-truth/) - Looking for a good summer read? Or just a novel that will keep you turning pages or clicking the screen for more, more, more? Here you go.
- [Because You Know You Want to Read More Books](https://www.snoringscholar.com/know-want-read-books/) - If you want to read more books, you might benefit from Brandon Vogt's "Read More Books" course. Here are my thoughts on it...
- [The Story of Writing a Novel that's NOT So Far-Fetched](https://www.snoringscholar.com/novel-loved-99-cents-jump/) - Michelle Buckman shares how a book she wrote has started to come true...and why it's important that we recognize and stand firm in our morality and beliefs.
- [Yes, I'm Still Here: Other Writing I'm Doing](https://www.snoringscholar.com/yes-im-still-writing-im/) - In which I admit that I'm still writing, even if I haven't been here in a while. :)
- [3 Easy Ways to Pray with Your Spouse](https://www.snoringscholar.com/3-easy-ways-to-pray-with-your-spouse/) - Do you pray with your spouse? Here are 3 of my ideas for easy ways to pray with your spouse...you may not even have to do anything extra!
- [Celebrating Divine Mercy Sunday with Your Family](https://www.snoringscholar.com/celebrating-divine-mercy-sunday-with-your-family/) - Michele Faehnle shares how her family celebrated Divine Mercy Sunday and the many blessings and joys they experienced as a result.
- [Fern Reviews Have Courage, Be Kind: The Tale of Cinderella](https://www.snoringscholar.com/fern-reviews-have-courage-be-kind-the-tale-of-cinderella/) - 11-year-old Fern has a review of the new(ish) Cinderella tale 'Have Courage, Be Kind'. It's Disney-inspired and she mostly liked it.
- [7 Ways to Slow Down in Prayer](https://www.snoringscholar.com/7-ways-to-slow-down-in-prayer/) - It's not easy to slow down in prayer, but it's been on my heart to pursue this lately. Here are 7 tips from someone who struggles with slowing down.
- [The Perfect Gift: A Custom Baptismal Candle](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-perfect-gift-a-custom-baptismal-candle/) - Do you find yourself looking for the perfect gift, especially for baptisms? Here's a custom baptismal candle that is a hand-crafted work of art that will make you go AHHHHHH.
- [Quick Takes Daybook: good books, first haircut, and Lent](https://www.snoringscholar.com/quick-takes-daybook-good-books-first-haircut-and-lent/) - Here's a look at my recent reading, the little guy's first haircut, and a quote about Lent that makes me wonder what you have going on for Lent.
- [Listen to me on "Girlfriends" with Danielle Bean](https://www.snoringscholar.com/listen-to-me-on-girlfriends-with-danielle-bean/) - I was recently on the Girlfriends podcast with Danielle Bean...and here's a bit about that, along with a huge plug for the show (because it's SUPER GREATLY GOOD!).
- [What I Found after I Lost My Identity {Mom to Mom}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/what-i-found-after-i-lost-my-identity-mom-to-mom/) - Turns out that when I lost my identity, I gained a lot more. Here's my response to another mom's bemoaning her lost identity.
- [A Snapshot of Life of Late: The "Where Have I Been?" Daybook](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-snapshot-of-life-of-late-the-where-have-i-been-daybook/) - Here's a snapshot of my life, including what's on my mind and in my reading.
- [A Few Chances Left to Attend the Arise Retreat from Good Things Radio:](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-few-chances-left-to-attend-the-arise-retreat-from-good-things-radio/) - Christmas is coming...and she could use a the gift of a retreat, don't you think? The Arise Retreat from Good Things Radio, scheduled for Lent 2016, has a few openings left. You won't be sorry...and neither will she!
- [Marriage, Really {Mom to Mom}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/marriage-really-mom-to-mom/) - By Erin Giddens I was asked recently, by a good friend, to offer a quote on what marriage is really like. I failed to give her any response even though I promised I would. I just couldn’t wrap the idea up into one cohesive thought. What is marriage? Really? There are so many prevalent ideas running
- [Soulless Creatures: Why You'll Love the Latest by Katharine Grubb](https://www.snoringscholar.com/soulless-creatures-by-katharine-grubb/) - Katharine Grubb's newest novel, Soulless Creatures, is so good I have 7 reasons you'll love it. That means you should put it on your list RIGHT NOW and plan to read it ASAP. You'll thank me later, I'm sure of it! :)
- [Great Kids Books: Barnyard Bliss and Miraculous Me](https://www.snoringscholar.com/great-kids-books-barnyard-bliss-and-miraculous-me/) - If you're looking for great kids books, here are two you should definitely consider: Barnyard Bliss and Miraculous Me.
- [Kissing Jesus, Meeting Saints, and Who Knew? Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle and <i>The Kiss of Jesus</i>](https://www.snoringscholar.com/kissing-jesus-meeting-saints-and-who-knew-donna-marie-cooper-oboyle-and-the-kiss-of-jesus/) - An excerpt from Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle's new memoir, The Kiss of Jesus, and reflections on know Donna-Marie over the years.
- [Silver and Gold: Lasting Friendships and 'True Radiance'](https://www.snoringscholar.com/silver-and-gold-lasting-friendships-and-true-radiance/) - In True Radiance: Finding Grace in the Second Half of Life, Lisa Mladinich has tapped into a holy and hopeful perspective that I didn't even know I needed. She has a beautiful and poetical approach to aging that, honestly, makes me glad to see a few more sparkly hairs on my own head. It also makes me appreciate friendship for the gift it is from God.
- [Nancy Ward and "Sharing YOUR Faith Story"](https://www.snoringscholar.com/nancy-ward-and-sharing-your-faith-story/) - Nancy Ward in an interview on her new project, the "Sharing YOUR Faith Story" DVD.
- [What's your favorite part of Mass?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/whats-your-favorite-part-of-mass/) - My 2nd grade daughter brought home the question, and as I struggled to answer it, I share it with you: What's your favorite part of Mass?
- [Hail Mary Hacks in 7 Quick Takes](https://www.snoringscholar.com/hail-mary-hacks-in-7-quick-takes/) - Here are seven of my favorite Hail Mary hacks...tips for praying the Hail Mary in different ways, from different perspectives, and with different approaches, so that you don't get stale in your approach.
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: The Complete Prayer](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-the-complete-prayer/) - Updated and enhanced versions of these reflections are available in the new book, Word by Word: Slowing Down with the Hail Mary. Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and
- [7 Reasons I'm Still Blogging (Happy 7 Quick Takes Anniversary!)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/7-reasons-im-still-blogging-happy-7-quick-takes-anniversary/) - In honor of the 7 Quick Takes Anniversary, here are 7 reasons I'm still blogging after 9 years. (They may not be good reasons, but...they're MY reasons!)
- [Word by Word Available on October 2!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/word-by-word-available-on-october-2/) - Look what came in the mail...and this means that your mail may have it too!
- [Will you join us in a Living Rosary?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/will-you-join-us-in-a-living-rosary/) - What does it mean to be part of a Living Rosary? And would you, by chance, like to join ours?
- [Preorder Word by Word on Sep. 8 and Save (Plus Free Shipping)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/preorder-word-by-word-on-sep-8-and-save-plus-free-shipping/) - Have you been on the fence about whether or not you need a copy of my new book, Word by Word: Slowing Down with the Hail Mary? To celebrate Mary's birthday, the publisher's offering it for $10 plus free shipping for one day only!
- [Pay Attention When You Talk to Mom!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/pay-attention-when-you-talk-to-mom/) - You don't want to miss this interview about my favorite prayer (and new book) with one of my favorite Catholic dads.
- [Cathletics and Saints: Super Saints from Arma Dei](https://www.snoringscholar.com/cathletics-and-saints-super-saints-from-arma-dei/) - I can't help but love the versatility of this Super Saints kit from Arma Dei. This is an endeavor to meet the saints and get to know them.
- [My Hipster Cred = Real: I'm on the Catholic Hipster Podcast!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-hipster-cred-real-im-on-the-catholic-hipster-podcast/) - The Catholic Hipster Podcast does some slummin' and has ME on as a guest...
- [Like to Write? New Evangelizers is Looking for Contributors!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/like-to-write-new-evangelizers-is-looking-for-contributors/) - New Evangelizers is looking for more contributors for its blog. If you're interested, read on!
- [Fern Reviews The Land of Stories: The Wishing Spell](https://www.snoringscholar.com/fern-reviews-the-land-of-stories-the-wishing-spell/) - Ten-year-old Fern reviews The Land of Stories: The Wishing Spell, by Chris Colfer.
- [Announcing Word by Word: Slowing Down with the Hail Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/announcing-word-by-word-slowing-down-with-the-hail-mary/) - I've been busy lately. I blame the baby for part of it, but really, the baby is just a tiny part of a much larger busyness. Part of that is a new book, in which I take a new role. Instead of author, I am editor: Word by Word: Slowing Down with the Hail Mary. What
- [Recent Reads: Amazing Fiction and Saintly Brilliance](https://www.snoringscholar.com/recent-reads-amazing-fiction-and-saintly-brilliance/) - I miss my reading binges, but with a holiday weekend ahead, I have hope. (It's pretty much unfounded hope, mind you. I still have an infant and tons of things to catch up on.) Lately, the reading I've been doing has been for endorsement (the blurby things on the back covers and inside pages), so they're
- [When Camp Makes Me Think of Mary, Cause of Our Joy](https://www.snoringscholar.com/when-camp-makes-me-think-of-mary-cause-of-our-joy/) - At first, Mary's title "Cause of Our Joy" doesn't seem to make sense. But with a bit of time and some childhood inspiration, it all falls into place.
- [Fern Reviews Chime Travelers, Books 1 and 2](https://www.snoringscholar.com/fern-reviews-chime-travelers-books-1-and-2/) - Ten-year-old Fern reviews Books 1 and 2 of the brand-new Chime Travelers series by Lisa Hendey.
- [Working through the Slump](https://www.snoringscholar.com/working-through-the-slump/) - Being in a slump (which I hesitate to call depression, because, well, maybe it's just a bad mood, or lack of sleep, or life, or...) is a challenge unto itself. Facing it this summer has been...interesting. It's also made me stop to think about what I've done that has helped.
- ['Catholic Through the Year' Planner from Catholic Sistas](https://www.snoringscholar.com/catholic-through-the-year-planner-from-catholic-sistas/) - I remember when my stepmom came home from the store, around 1993 or so, and handed me a bright purple notebook-looking thing. "I thought you might like this," she said. Turns out it was my very first planner. I got away from planners after college, when my job was the sort of thing that didn't need me to
- [Today = Start of Total Consecration](https://www.snoringscholar.com/today-start-of-total-consecration/) - Today's the day to start the Total Consecration prayers. Our world has never needed it more!
- [The Best Response to Troubling News: Prayer and Consecration to Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-best-response-to-troubling-news-prayer-and-consecration-to-mary/) - Here's a response to troubling recent news: join the consecration to Mary. It's as easy as signing up for an email. No, really.
- [Chart-Topping Monks of Norcia: An Album You Deserve](https://www.snoringscholar.com/chart-topping-monks-of-norcia-an-album-you-deserve/) - The Monks of Norcia have a new album out, and it's chart-topping for a reason.
- [Too Good Not to Share: Mark Hart Dancing with Nuns to Taylor Swift](https://www.snoringscholar.com/too-good-not-to-share-mark-hart-dancing-with-nuns-to-taylor-swift/) - When I saw that title come across my YouTube alerts, I thought that I must be misreading it. And then I remembered who we're talking about here: Mark Hart. Yes, he's really dancing with nuns. With Taylor Swift playing in the background. And he knows all the words. Nope, I'm not surprised. I just didn't
- [Confirmation Boot Camp, Day 5](https://www.snoringscholar.com/confirmation-boot-camp-day-5/) - As promised, I'm blogging each day of Confirmation Boot Camp this week. Here's what we did today. We made it to the last day. We won't talk about whether the kids were cheering or not... Yesterday, near the end of the day, we somehow ended up referencing personality types. I'm a true blue personality typing
- [Confirmation Boot Camp, Day 4](https://www.snoringscholar.com/confirmation-boot-camp-day-4/) - As promised, I'm blogging each day of Confirmation Boot Camp this week. Here's what we did today. Today we talked Theology of the Body, which KJ jokes is our Catholic birds and bees. We separate the boys and girls with a divider, so they can't see (or really hear) each other, and yet we can
- [Confirmation Boot Camp, Day 3](https://www.snoringscholar.com/confirmation-boot-camp-day-3/) - As promised, I'm blogging each day of Confirmation Boot Camp this week. Here's what we did today. The sacraments: that uniquely Catholic topic that is both fun and intimidating to teach (and learn). They were the core of our day today, and it turned out not-dull, methought (and I think the kids weren't miserable). Today
- [Confirmation Boot Camp, Day 2](https://www.snoringscholar.com/confirmation-boot-camp-day-2/) - As promised, I'm blogging each day of Confirmation Boot Camp this week. Here's what we did today. Today was "Jesus Day." And yes, there were tears. We kicked off, as we always do, with the beginning of our daily rosary and the first decade. Then we watched Road to Emmaus: [youtube_sc url="https://youtu.be/vepBqHvZ0Xs"] What followed was
- [Confirmation Boot Camp, Day 1](https://www.snoringscholar.com/confirmation-boot-camp-day-1/) - As promised, I'm blogging each day of Confirmation Boot Camp this week. Here's what we did today. We begin every Confirmation Boot Camp by laying out our expectations. We spend time discussing respect and what that means, though, without fail, we end up having to remind at least one person (sometimes not so gently). KJ,
- [On the Eve of Confirmation Boot Camp](https://www.snoringscholar.com/on-the-eve-of-confirmation-boot-camp/) - Tomorrow, we kick off the fun also known as Confirmation Boot Camp. So, before I write anything else, I want to ask you for your prayers. We spend 30 hours with our 8th graders, doing in one week what most parishes do in 30 classes. This is my fifth year teaching, and I'm as calm
- [Summer Reads for Busy Moms](https://www.snoringscholar.com/summer-reads-for-busy-moms/) - I was sitting there, minding my own business (read as: nursing the baby and playing Trivia Crack), when the text came in. Hey reading mama! I need a recommendation for a lighthearted novel. Any suggestions? Does the pope have a prayer he likes? Would my kids like more candy? Is it summer? WHY YES! I
- [Were you looking for something meaningful?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/were-you-looking-for-something-meaningful/) - Cuz all I got is this, the kid who will smile for the other kids at the drop of a hat, but for whom I can stand on my head and not get a smile: And yes, this is meaningful, no doubt about it. At least, it's meaningful to me. And maybe it's good to remind myself
- [Mother's Day Gift Ideas that Don't Cost a Dime](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mothers-day-gift-ideas-that-dont-cost-a-dime/) - Today I realized something: MOTHER'S DAY IS TOMORROW. Which would be fine and dandy and wonderful, if it didn't come with the realization that I DIDN'T PLAN AHEAD. Two of the moms in my life (the two who are MY moms, mind you) live at a distance where, uh, this means they're getting a nice text and a delayed gift.
- [Why a Blogging Break Is a Good Thing](https://www.snoringscholar.com/why-a-blogging-break-is-a-good-thing/) - Over the last two weeks, I've been on a blogging break. It was unplanned. And I'm unapologetic. My blogging has changed over the years. And though I've had moments of thinking about just chuck the whole thing, I've never wanted to quit blogging. Sometimes, it's possible to get too navel-gazey about this endeavor. It's also possible
- [A Daybook for Holy Thursday](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-daybook-for-holy-thursday/) - Outside my window: Sun! And the promise of warm! Around the house: The baby is sleeping and the other three are all playing on various small-sized screens. This won't last much longer, but as I sit here with my coffee in front of me, I'm just enjoying the chance to capture a few words here. :) What
- [My Lenten Blessing: Meet the Newest Superhero](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-lenten-blessing-meet-the-newest-superhero/) - When I found out I was due with Baby 4 around Holy Week, I'll admit that my first reaction was akin to, "Well. Lent is going to REALLY SUCK this year, isn't it?" A kind and holy man in my life pointed out that I was really going to get "all the graces!" of Lent
- [Daybook Fun: The "It's Been a While" Edition](https://www.snoringscholar.com/daybook-fun-the-its-been-a-while-edition/) - I don't often do this "live-blogging" thing anymore, do I? In the age of "things can be scheduled" and "building a platform is better if you want to market yourself," writing daybooks on a whim is...well, it's probably not encouraged. Probably a good thing I don't really care. :) Outside my window: Snow in great white
- [A Princess Guide, a Murder Mystery, and a Look at Being Gay and Catholic](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-princess-guide-a-murder-mystery-and-a-look-at-being-gay-and-catholic/) - Sometimes I look at the pile of books I have read and want to review and shake my head, because it looks like a disparate grouping. Take this week’s load: a book with the subtitle “Faith Lessons from Snow White, Cinderella, and Sleeping Beauty,” a murder mystery published by a small press that kept me
- [3 Great Kids' Books on Saints](https://www.snoringscholar.com/3-great-kids-books-on-saints/) - Over at the Register, I have my thoughts on three new kids' books on saints: Adventures in Assisi, The Life of Saint Benedict, and A Boy Who Became Pope. Check it out. (And I have hopes of returning to blogging here someday soon. Or tomorrow. We'll see.)
- [3 of My Favorite Novels #showusyourlist](https://www.snoringscholar.com/3-favorite-novels-showusyourlist/) - It's Mardi Gras. And wow, is there ever some trash being thrown around. It's not only at the parties, but on the big screens and the small screens and within the covers of novels. So Erin McCole-Cupp laid it down: #showusyourlist, she said, of fiction worth reading. Now THIS is a challenge that makes me put all
- [If you're in Columbus next weekend... #2015ccwc](https://www.snoringscholar.com/youre-columbus-next-weekend-2015ccwc/) - ...there's only one place to be, and that's the 2015 Columbus Catholic Women's Conference! The theme this year is "At the Foot of the Cross," which is dear to me in many, many, MANY ways. (Note to self: DO NOT WEAR MASCARA.) This painting was commissioned especially for the conference, and I may have to
- [Aiming for #OldFashioned](https://www.snoringscholar.com/aiming-oldfashioned/) - I love movies. No, really, I do. But here's the thing: I love books more. Much, much more. So I opt for reading every. Single. Time. But movie dates are something my husband and I do, especially now that the theater that's close has seats that accommodate his longer legs; they've made going to the
- [Talking Books on the Radio with Allison Gingras [Updated with Link]](https://www.snoringscholar.com/talking-books-radio-allison-gingras/) - So Allison Gingras has this new radio show where she talks books for an hour a day, five days a week. Yeah. I know. TOTALLY COOL, RIGHT??? Well, what's even cooler for ME is that I'm a monthly guest. Today's my first day, and I'm behind the curve sharing this (sorry!). You can listen live, starting
- [Two New Books for Life](https://www.snoringscholar.com/two-new-books-life/) - Over at my Register blog today, I'm sharing two books that are great life resources: Prayers for Life and On Human Life. On the one hand, a great devotional. On the other hand, a historical perspective of a prophetic encyclical. Really, you can't go wrong, especially on the cusp of the Roe v. Wade anniversary and the call
- [29 weeks into my 4th pregnancy, and I discover new life.](https://www.snoringscholar.com/29-weeks-4th-pregnancy-discover-new-life/) - I'm not a quick learner. (Not shocking for anyone who knows me.) But yeah, 29 weeks into this pregnancy, which is numero four, and I find myself suddenly discovering life in a new way. I don't know how else to explain it. Though I tried. This weekend, I curled up with my kids on the
- [Studying the Mass Taken to the Next Level with Altaration](https://www.snoringscholar.com/studying-mass-taken-next-level-altaration/) - Brand-new and not-yet-released from Ascension Press and one of my very favorite youth ministry people (Mark Hart): Altaration. (I don't even have a link to share yet. It's THAT NEW.) Altaration addresses head-on one of the biggest problems we all face: how do we get Catholic teens to appreciate the awesome beauty and mystery of
- [New Year, New Decade](https://www.snoringscholar.com/new-year-new-decade/) - For the last ten years, ringing in the new year has meant something more to me than resolutions and champagne: it's meant recognizing my own motherhood. It was on January 1, 2005 that I officially became a mother. Oh, I know I was a mother when she was inside me. I don't deny that. But...well,
- [To Resolve or Not to Resolve?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/resolve-not-resolve/) - I love resolutions. I hate resolutions. And I can't help but see, this year, how Mary's involved in it for me. This January 1 marks my tenth year as a mother. My oldest child — a daughter who's almost as tall as I am, has a sassy streak and a sense of humor, and looks
- [Christmas Grief and Remembering Those Who Mourn](https://www.snoringscholar.com/christmas-grief-remembering-mourn/) - In the midst of the hustle and bustle, the chaos and clutter, the preparations and perpetual carols, it's easy to forget/ignore/overlook the many who grieve at this time of year. Those people are in my heart in a special way this year. A week ago, a friend texted me and asked me to pray for
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: MARY](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-mary/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "MARY" By Deacon Tom Fox When Sarah approached
- [3 Good Books - Call em Gifts to You from Me](https://www.snoringscholar.com/3-good-books-call-em-gifts/) - I read a lot. (Though not so much lately, much to my sobbing chagrin.) And so, as I was putting together my book post for today, I tried to think of three books that would be great for you, or for that hard-to-shop-for person on your list. Not that any of YOU are still shopping.
- [My New Favorite Rosary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/new-favorite-rosary/) - As it turns out, it's not an ACTUAL rosary in the "something I hold in my hands" sense of the word. It's a new Rosary album that I actually listen to on my phone, from the Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist. The Dominicans, as you may know, have a special tie to the Rosary,
- [Let's Support Young Moms](https://www.snoringscholar.com/lets-support-young-moms/) - I have a passion for pregnancy centers. You might recall that, after my book came out, I asked you to help me donate it to a number of centers around the United States. When I heard about Chaunie Brusie's big hairy goal, I was excited. And touched. And moved to take action. Chaunie wants to
- [Great New Music: O Day of Resurrection and Christmas in Harvard Square](https://www.snoringscholar.com/great-new-music-o-day-resurrection-christmas-harvard-square/) - I always hesitate to accept review copies of music. I don’t consider myself an expert on music; enjoying a good album or a certain kind of sound just makes me a fan. But when I listened to the two albums that were in my mailbox, I knew I had to share about them here. They’re
- [Wholehearted: A Good Way to Appraoach Life](https://www.snoringscholar.com/wholehearted-good-way-appraoach-life/) - Nobody recites the old "sticks and stones" nursery rhymes anymore. Today we are quite certain that words have the capacity to leave us scarred. But words can do other things, too. Well-chosen ones give us hope, create connections, and help us perceive our lives more clearly. They can turn our attention toward what is good
- [Chastity is Cool](https://www.snoringscholar.com/chastity-cool/) - Don't believe me? Well, that's fair. Chastity might just be the most misunderstood concept ever. It's not just about not having sex. It's not just for single people. If my interview with Arleen Spenceley didn't convince you the other day, then maybe my review of her new book, Chastity is for Lovers, will get your interest. Arleen
- [Arleen Spenceley and Chastity Is For Lovers](https://www.snoringscholar.com/arleen-spenceley-chastity-lovers/) - I've always been full of questions. In seventh grade, we were graded on how well we asked questions of other people's science project presentations. I took it as my personal challenge to ask every single person at least one question. At the end of the year, I remember the boy I had a huge crush
- [What Every Mom Needs (No, Really)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/every-mom-needs-no-really/) - It wasn't until I was a parent myself that I really started appreciating something my parents had told me for years. "We're praying for you." It's what moms do, isn't it? But it's anything but easy, at least for me. Enter The Mother's Prayer Companion. This is one of those things that is life-changing. Consider
- [It's about the Music](https://www.snoringscholar.com/music/) - Don’t think music is important? Go to Mass where the music isn’t what you expected or isn’t what you like or is just plain awful. Then attend a Mass where the music blows you away with its quality. There’s a difference. And while music is NOT why we go to Mass, it can really impact
- [Because "Yes" is Where It's At: Lisa Hendey and <i>The Grace of Yes</i>](https://www.snoringscholar.com/lisa-hendey-grace-of-yes/) - I've come to know and love Lisa Hendey on a lot of levels, and not just because we're on a last name basis reminiscent of my college days (but oh so much better). She's not only a hard worker and a visionary: she's also a truly caring and humble individual. She's the kind of person who will
- [What Yes Means to Me #GraceofYesDay](https://www.snoringscholar.com/yes-means-graceofyesday-2/) - Today is Grace of Yes Day, in which we celebrate the generosity that comes from saying Yes to God. I've learned what Yes looks like from the wonderful people I work with and live with and am related to. Today, I'd like to reflect on the Yeses of a few of these people. This isn't my
- [Gay and Catholic: A Great Book You Need to Read](https://www.snoringscholar.com/gay-catholic-great-book-need-read/) - There's a certain catch-22 in writing about celibate gay life. If you write about the joy you find in fidelity to Christ and the Church, you may sound Pollyannish, defensive, or callous toward others' suffering. If you write about the difficulties, you can be accused of self-pity and masochism. I hope that this book is
- [A Book of Everyday Catholic Heroes](https://www.snoringscholar.com/book-everyday-catholic-heroes/) - Who doesn't love reading about everyday heroes? Well, okay, so maybe I wouldn't have signed up for it, but I have a hard time telling Randy Hain no. So when he asked me to read his book...I did. And I'm GLAD I did. Because it was GOOD. I've never had tears in my eyes reading a
- [So, I'm Giving a Mary Talk](https://www.snoringscholar.com/im-giving-mary-talk/) - ...because apparently they'll let anyone talk about Mary... I know, I know. I should have told you before now. To be honest, I have a hard time believing anyone wants to leave the comfort of their couch to hear me blather. I know, I know. I should know better. Well, if you're in the area on Wednesday, I'd
- [What "Yes" Means to Me #GraceofYesDay](https://www.snoringscholar.com/yes-means-graceofyesday/) - On November 18, Lisa Hendey is celebrating "Grace of Yes Day" and attempting to make #graceofyesday trend on social media. [youtube_sc url="http://youtu.be/VykvhEDjIZw"] Video link I have to give her credit: she doesn't just think big, she thinks generously. She's not promoting her new book, not really: she's trying to make us all stop and consider
- [Nothing Accidental about This Awesome Novel](https://www.snoringscholar.com/nothing-accidental-awesome-novel/) - I read a lot of books. Just yesterday, at the post office, the new lady (who will be new for at least another year in our small town, because she hasn't been there for 10 years already) asked me if I ever get sick of reading. "Nope." She just looked at me. (And I didn't
- [In Which We See #4 Close Up](https://www.snoringscholar.com/see-4-close/) - I can't resist sharing. This never gets old. In fact, having the kids with us made it even sweeter, especially when the 3yo declared that the baby's name shall be Linus. (Think Charlie Brown, not the second pope.) I think this baby shall still be Peanut Butter to us, though. I mean, why not? Though
- [The Grace of Yes: Why You Should Read and Reread It](https://www.snoringscholar.com/grace-yes-read-reread/) - 1. It's a great book. 2. There's a fish on the cover. And the fish has a NAME! 3. It will make you smile. And think. And ponder. And want to discuss. 4. You never knew you didn't know Lisa Hendey's life dream (which is so stinkin cute and hilarious!). 5. I said so. 6.
- [The Stirring Within](https://www.snoringscholar.com/theory-becomes-reality/) - As I was up in the wee hours of the night, holding a feverish, coughing child, I felt it. The first stirrings of movement within. This baby has been real to me for many, many weeks. And yet, there's something about that first fluttery feeling, the confirmation that goes beyond the heartbeat I hear at
- [Saints and Virtues, All in One New Book [At the Register]](https://www.snoringscholar.com/saints-virtues-one-new-book-register/) - One of the attractions the Catholic Church has always held for me is the communion of saints. I don’t pretend to understand it, but it resonates with me: this group of heroes who had their own faults and failings and still overcame them to reach the prize of heaven. In the years I’ve been Catholic,
- [A Series for Younger Readers: Sisters of the Last Straw](https://www.snoringscholar.com/series-younger-readers-sisters-last-straw/) - Now that my first grader is discovering that she not only likes to be read to, but that she can read all by herself, I find myself always on the lookout for good books. I especially love to find good Catholic books, but...well, it's hard to find things that are as appealing as what's at the
- [Looks Like <i>Unwind</i> Isn't So Far-Fetched](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looks-like-unwind-isnt-far-fetched/) - My niece introduced me to the Unwind series of books last year after she had to read the first book in school. I found them so engaging and wonderfully written that I have since gone on to read them all. Imagine that abortion was outlawed. There was a huge war (seemingly a sort of civil
- [The Annunciation - <i>Mary of Nazareth</i> #RosaryCrawl](https://www.snoringscholar.com/annunciation-mary-nazareth-rosarycrawl/) - This post is part of the Mary of Nazareth Blog Tour and Rosary Crawl. First Joyful Mystery: The Annunciation "In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's
- [Trusting God with St. Therese](https://www.snoringscholar.com/trusting-god-st-therese/) - Trusting God is easier said that done, at least for me. I always seem to think I know better. Or that I can do it myself, which puts me at about the same level as my three-year-old. Over the years, I’ve become quite a St. Therese fangirl, though I will admit that I struggle sometimes.
- [Why I Recommend the Unwind Series Wholeheartedly](https://www.snoringscholar.com/recommend-unwind-series-wholeheartedly/) - Last summer, my eighth grade niece insisted I would LOVE a book she was required to read for her Language Arts class. The book was Unwind, by Neal Shusterman. As it turns out, she was more than right. I did love it. In fact, watching Shusterman talking about his inspiration for writing the book only made me more interested.
- [This Week at the Register: Baptizing Aliens, Synod Stuff, and Cool Tech](https://www.snoringscholar.com/week-register-baptizing-aliens-synod-stuff-cool-tech/) - Am I abusing you by sending you over to my Register blog? Well. Maybe so. I'm there on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. This week: An Interview with the Authors of Would You Baptize an Extraterrestrial? This was apparently an opportunity for comments based ONLY ON THE TITLE OF THE BOOK instead of on the actual interview.
- [Who Wrote the Book on Love?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/wrote-book-love/) - Today, it's my honor to host Britt Leigh as she stops by as part of the Back-to-School Blog Tour celebrating her new book, The Ten Commandments of Kissing Gloria Jean. Who Wrote the Book on Love? By Britt Leigh I’ll be humble: it wasn’t me. Oh, sure, my first novel for teens, Ten Commandments for Kissing Gloria
- [Sitting at His Feet and Finding the Answers There](https://www.snoringscholar.com/sitting-feet-finding-answers/) - I wasn't going to blog today, in part because I did this little update that crashed the back end of things, and partly because I'm a lazy bad blogger. But after a visit to see JC, I decided that today was a day for blogging. This morning, I sat down after the girls got on
- [My Interview with Chris Stefanick](https://www.snoringscholar.com/interview-chris-stefanick/) - The Chosen program caught my eye and has held my interest in the months since I first reviewed it. A while back, I had the opportunity to interview Chris Stefanick, who was (and is) the muscle and brainpower behind Chosen. Talking with him, I was struck by how passionate Chris is about young people. It's a passion I
- [Three Books for Family Living and Thriving](https://www.snoringscholar.com/three-books-family-living-thriving/) - Family life is hard, no way around it. All that joy, crammed into a tiny space, and before long there are bound to be explosions. This group of newish releases may be just what you need to rejuvenate yourself and remind yourself of all the reasons to smile, with some new ideas, tools, and inspiration
- [Another Reason to Love John Wayne, Thanks to <i>The American Catholic Almanac</i>](https://www.snoringscholar.com/another-reason-love-john-wayne-thanks-american-catholic-almanac/) - As I was cruising through my new favorite book, The American Catholic Almanac: A Daily Reader of Patriots, Saints, Rogues, and Ordinary People Who Changed the United States, I came upon the April 7 entry, entitled "The Duke." It began, When asked about his religion, John Wayne usually gave one of two responses. Either he claimed
- [That Picture of Danielle Bean (and the Interview)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/picture-danielle-bean-interview/) - Remember how I was Googling Danielle Bean last week? Well, here's the interview at Integrated Catholic Life where I used the picture! Danielle and I talked about her new book, Momnipotent, and I think it's a conversation you'll enjoy. See you there!
- [Write What You Know...Sort of](https://www.snoringscholar.com/write-know-sort/) - Today, it's a treat to host Marilee Haynes as she stops by as part of the Back-to-School Blog Tour celebrating her newest book, Genius under Construction. Marilee shares some writing advice, and it's something that I've found true, even though I've never written fiction. Sometimes, "write what you know" isn't the best advice. See what you
- [Why I'm Glad My Son Wants to Be a Superhero](https://www.snoringscholar.com/im-glad-son-wants-superhero/) - Sometime in the last few months, my three-year-old son has become enamored with superheroes. Maybe it was his older cousin rubbing off on him. Maybe it's that Daddy has The Avengers, an IronMan, or Captain America on pretty often. Or maybe it's something hard-wired into little boys. I see this in him, and it's something that manifests itself so
- [I Googled Danielle Bean to Find a Picture...](https://www.snoringscholar.com/googled-danielle-bean-find-picture/) - ...and look what I found: Now, before you think I'm a creepy stalker sort (ahem, maybeIambutshhhhh), I did a legitimate interview with Danielle, and it will be posted to a legitimate website where I write all the time. We needed a picture of her (standard procedure when you post an interview). What's cool: That's a
- [So, What's Your Goal?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/whats-goal/) - I have successfully avoided this question for years in this space. Goal? Blogging is my fun. There's no GOAL in FUN. Riiiight? Well, this weekend, someone from another world stopped into my virtual space and made two comments. "Wow, you sure have been at this for a long time!" and "So, what's your goal?" And though I
- [How to Avoid Our Kids Drowning in a Sea of Compliments](https://www.snoringscholar.com/call-911-kids-drowning-sea-compliments/) - Today, it's an honor to host author Nicole Lataif for some thoughts on over-complimenting our kids. Honestly, I don't know that I've ever thought about it quite like this (and I'm still processing some of the things Nicole suggests). What do you think? Call 911! Our Kids Are Drowning in a Sea of Compliments! By
- [St. Nicholas of Tolentino, pray for us!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/st-nicholas-tolentino-pray-us/) - On the afternoon of September 10, a friend of our family went to the hospital for some bleeding she was having. A bit of background: she was pregnant with twins, 26.5 weeks pregnant, to be exact. Yesterday, I found out that the twins were born. And when my husband told me all I could do
- [No Apologies (but some links)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/apologies-links/) - I always hate it when I look up and a bunch of time has passed and I haven't blogged. It's just not a good habit to keep. Then again, this blogging thing is supposed to be FUN. (Platform building lecturers, leave the room, please.) And sometimes, LIFE crops up. Well, you know the drill, don't
- [Attention Catholic Writers: Catholic365 Has Opportunities!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/attention-catholic-writers-catholic365-opportunities/) - Catholic365.com is sending an invitation to all Catholic writers and bloggers to submit your work for publication. Catholic365.com is a Catholic focused article and information portal by Catholic writers and bloggers who write about things Catholics are interested in, with 3 main categories - Faith, Life and What's Going On, from a perspective consistent with the Magisterium
- [Introducing Reinhard #4](https://www.snoringscholar.com/introducing-reinhard-4/) - I mean, yeah, there's social media. But isn't the whole reason for a blog that you can announce fun great news like this to the whole world? Yes, I thought you'd agree.
- [Summer Reading: The Rosie Project](https://www.snoringscholar.com/summer-reading-rosie-project/) - Oh. My. Word. What a book! First, it’s entertaining and hilarious. Second, it’s insightful into those highly analytical Asperger’s types. I heard about it thanks to Julie and Scott at the A Good Story Is Hard to Find podcast, and their discussion made me curious and a little compulsive. (I may or may not have
- [Yes, You CAN](https://www.snoringscholar.com/yes-can/) - Be a catechist, that is. If you think that being a catechist takes a big investment of time, you’re right. But that time is a gift you give, not just to your parish but to the entire Church. Our kids aren’t just the future of our Church; theyare our Church—right now. This is an investment you
- [Summer Reading: The Watson Chronicles](https://www.snoringscholar.com/summer-reading-watson-chronicles/) - I just lovvvvve a good mystery. And did I ever find one this summer! In The Watson Chronicles, Ann Margaret Lewis dusts off everything I loved about Sherlock Holmes in junior high (when I discovered him thanks to required reading) and adds enough that grown-up me was entranced. Yes, entranced. The book is a series of
- [Summer Reading: Tobit's Dog](https://www.snoringscholar.com/summer-reading-tobits-dog/) - I love the book of Tobit and I read it many years ago, sitting in Adoration as a new Catholic. And I wondered why in the world you would cut such a brilliant adventure story from the Bible. I was therefore VERY excited when I heard about Ignatius Press's release of Tobit's Dog earlier this summer. It's is
- [Summer Reading: Everywhere in Chains](https://www.snoringscholar.com/summer-reading-everywhere-chains/) - There are some books that I start and I keep reading, not sure exactly why. I finished Everywhere in Chains, by James Casper, in May, before summer officially started, but it's the kind of book that's stayed with me. I didn't read it quickly (or it didn't feel quickly) and I don't know that I liked reading it. I
- [Mary, the Teacher](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-teacher/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I know that, as a parent, I am my children’s first teacher. I know it as an intellectual reality, as an indisputable fact. But what I need, so often, is to know it in my heart. That desire, that longing, repeatedly leads me to Mary. It makes me gaze up
- [Summer Reading: The Book Thief](https://www.snoringscholar.com/summer-reading-book-thief/) - I read this book almost 18 months ago, and though I read it in the winter, it struck me then as a great summer read. My first reaction to it was something to the effect of: What a read! I LOVED IT! This book was wonderful, though in a “tough topics all around” sort of way.
- [Summer Reading: Do No Harm](https://www.snoringscholar.com/summer-reading-father-elijah/) - I’m a biiiiig fan of novels. In fact, I’ve been known to reward myself with fiction after I’ve read some certain number of nonfiction books. I used to think that made me something of a slacker. I mean, surely the great theologians don’t read fluffy stories before bed. Of course the scholars are always immersed
- [Knees and Waves on the Fourth of July](https://www.snoringscholar.com/knees-waves-fourth-july/) - For me, Independence Day has never been as much about fireworks as about corn. For as far back as I can remember, the benchmark of summer was the height of the corn by the Fourth of July. “Knee high by the Fourth of July” punctuated my dad’s conversations with other ball-capped men in the hardware
- [Summer Reading: Bleeder](https://www.snoringscholar.com/summer-reading-bleeder/) - This is the sort of book that’s hard for me to review, because of the potential for spoilers. So if I don’t say enough to suit you, let that be supporting evidence that you should read it for yourself. :) I received a copy of this book for review, and I’ll admit that the title
- [Summer Reading: The Screwtape Letters](https://www.snoringscholar.com/summer-reading-screwtape-letters/) - Ah, here‘s an old friend. My battered old copy of Screwtape was marked and dog-eared and loved. It wasn’t mine at first, so it wasn't \my name written in maroon marker inside the front cover. I loved it so much after reading it (via audio) the first time that I reread it within months while leading a summer study with
- [Gearing up for Confirmation Boot Camp](https://www.snoringscholar.com/gearing-confirmation-boot-camp/) - Next week, I'm digging in for an intense week that includes 30 hours with 40 8th-graders. I can't wait. No, really. During the week of Confirmation Boot Camp, the kids arrive around 8:30 in the morning and leave around 2:00 in the afternoon. We have them bring snacks and goodies to share (and we provide
- [Chosen: A Confirmation Program Worth Checking Out](https://www.snoringscholar.com/chosen-confirmation-program-worth-checking/) - As a Confirmation catechist and program leader, I am ALWAYS looking for great resources. With our Confirmation Boot Camp program, we have never found anything that works completely and totally. We have a program we use, sort of, but it comes down to a team approach of tapping into resources, pulling together what this year's
- [Mass Fitness: A Workout I LOVVVVE #MassFitness](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mass-fitness-workout-lovvvve-massfitness/) - You can thank me for this later... [youtube_sc url="http://youtu.be/LS5CiU2ciD0"] Video link From the folks at LifeTeen, who maybe drink something in their coffee that I need to add to mine...
- [Mary in the Crazy Busy Chaos](https://www.snoringscholar.com/15595/) - A Mary Moment Monday post It's busy. It's crazy. It's chaotic. Hey, it's May! And it's Mary's month. As hare-brained as I am, as filled to the max with unfinished tasks, as sneezy and snoozled and snarky, it's Mary's month. I feel completely unjustified in complaining about being busy in May: my kids aren't that old, for
- [The Many Faces of Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/many-faces-mary/) - I can't ever forget March 16. It's not my day; it's not my pain. And yet, in many ways, it is. March 16 marks an anniversary that I still can't talk about (and I haven't written about in a while). It's the day Logan was born. And the day he entered heaven. I was feeling
- [A Chat about Love & Salt (with an excerpt too!)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/chat-love-salt-excerpt/) - Have you read Love & Salt: A Spiritual Friendship Shared in Letters yet? It's been out for a year, and it's a delightful read. And hey, it's Lenten in nature! It's also winning some awards and getting some well-deserved hoorah. That's all well and good, and you should buy it and read it and share it. A year
- [A Closer Look at Pope Francis and Why He Leads the Way He Leads](https://www.snoringscholar.com/closer-look-pope-francis-leads-way-leads/) - From the back cover of Pope Francis: Why He Leads the Way He Leads: Pope Francis has captured the world's attention with his seemingly counterintuitive approach to leadership. In Pope Francis: Why He Leads the Way He Leads, best-selling author and former Jesuit seminarian Chris Lowney offers an in-depth look at how Pope Francis's Jesuit training has
- [Our Tainted Nature's Solitary Boast: Father Barron on Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/father-barron-on-mary/) - Someday, I expect my relationship with the Blessed Virgin will make more sense to me than it does now. I think of her every day. I catch myself muttering to her. I'm caught unaware by her image all. the. time. And yet... And yet, it still seems strange to me. It's not unusual that Mary
- [Parenting Tips for Moms from Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton {Mom to Mom}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/parenting-tips-moms-saint-elizabeth-ann-seton-mom-mom/) - One of the special saints in my life is Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton. She's so special to me, in fact, that we picked her as my oldest daughter's patron saint. (Or one of her patrons, anyway.) I love the idea of turning to Saint Elizabeth for mothering tips, and these tips, in particular, speak to
- [My Favorite Novena](https://www.snoringscholar.com/favorite-novena/) - I love novenas. They give me a chance to feel like I'm actually doing the work of prayer, as opposed to just dashing off a quick request and sending it heavenward. They remind me, over the course of the nine days of prayer, of the discipline and the focus that I can give as a gift
- [It's Not About Me {Mom to Mom}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/its-not-about-me-mom-to-mom/) - You know that person who always seems to know just what to say? Who drops you a line right when you most need it? Who seems to bring to life whatever God wanted you to hear or know? That's been my experience in the last year with Jeannie Ewing. Though we have never met face-to-face,
- [What, Why, How #MyWritingProcess #PasstheCoffee](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mywritingprocess-passthecoffee/) - This post is Jen's fault. As in THE Jen to me, Jen Fitz. Or, as I know her, Crit Partner. That person who loves me enough to not only redlines my work, but calls me out on my style, makes me really use my actual voice, and asks me just where the heck I've been
- [7 Mary Books I Love](https://www.snoringscholar.com/7-mary-books-love/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Over the years, I've gathered quite a library of Mary books. In fact, they have their own shelf (and, before long, I suspect there will be more than one shelf). Because May is Mary's month, I thought it would be a good time to share five of my favorites with you. Mary,
- [God as Mystery, God as Neighbor](https://www.snoringscholar.com/god-mystery-god-neighbor/) - Today I find myself grateful for the gift of email. Before you snort your coffee and think I'm being a special brand of sarcastic, let me invite you to read on. Jurell Sison emailed me out of the blue, proposing that he share a reflection with my readers. After reading it, I couldn't say no.
- [In which I admit that I'm tempted to quit. But I *can't*.](https://www.snoringscholar.com/admit-im-tempted-quit-cant/) - Yeah, all that and more today at Integrated Catholic Life. What is it about being Catholic that’s so special to me? Is it that I just needed something to latch onto, a set of rituals to make my own and embrace? Why does it seem to “correct” so much of what I always struggled with?
- [Mary the Parent](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-parent/) - OK, so before I send you over to Integrated Catholic Life to read my piece on Mary as a parent and how I relate to her, I wanted to share this: He's a bad guy librarian. That is all. If you want a taste of what's over at Integrated Catholic Life, here you go: My understanding and
- [How Mary's My Refuge](https://www.snoringscholar.com/marys-refuge/) - Sometimes my refuges were hiding places — from the weight of my problems, from the stress of my life, from the things I didn’t understand. Sometimes my refuges were places of comfort, places I went to let my hair down and be me, though I was often trying to figure out just who, exactly, “me”
- [Sometimes, You Just Have to Be Still](https://www.snoringscholar.com/sometimes-just-still/) - I'm not good at being still. I'm not good at trusting God. It's an ongoing lesson. There's an art to stillness, and this weekend, I realized that maybe I'm getting better. Not good, but better. See you at Integrated Catholic Life for more.
- [Ellen Gable, a New Novel, and Addictive Reading](https://www.snoringscholar.com/ellen-gable-new-novel-addictive-reading/) - When Ellen Gable told me she had written a new book, I had an instant reaction: "YES, I'D LOVE TO READ IT" followed immediately by "OH MY GOODNESS, BUT WHEN?" (Yes, it was an all-caps reaction. Welcome to my inner brain.) So, two weeks ago, when I was on a plane flying across the country,
- [Hands and Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-hands-made-think-mary-star-sea/) - When my first child was a wee little thing, grasping at other people's fingers, I took quite a few pictures of her hands. So maybe I've been intrigued by hands at some level for many years. There's no doubt that my interest in Mary combined with my interest in hands for my latest piece at
- [Pictures from 3 Amazing Days at #RECongress in LA](https://www.snoringscholar.com/pictures-3-amazing-days-recongress-la/) - Two days ago, I flew across the country. It's my first trip to California, and I have many observations. One of them involves the sun and the temperature. The reason I'm here is the Diocese of Los Angeles' Religious Education Congress, where Lisa Hendey and I have two talks (we did our first talk yesterday,
- [An Interview with Dr. Brant Pitre and an Excerpt from Jesus the Bridegroom, ](https://www.snoringscholar.com/interview-dr-brant-pitre-excerpt-jesus-bridegroom/) - Dr. Brant Pitre's new book, Jesus the Bridegroom: The Greatest Love Story Ever Told tackles something that I find confusing when I stop to think about it. Jesus, a bridegroom. OK, yeah, but isn't that a metaphor? Turns out, not so much. According to the the blurbage, Jesus the Bridegroom: The Greatest Love Story Ever Told, the book
- [Who Needs a Teddy Bear When You Have a Teddy Baby? {Mom to Mom}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/needs-teddy-bear-teddy-baby-mom-mom/) - Here's a family story to make you smile and maybe even want to cuddle a baby. Who Needs a Teddy Bear When You Have a Teddy Baby? By Melanie Jean Juneau A newborn can see clearly for about 8 inches, just far enough to focus intently on his mother's face. It is almost as if
- [A Few Words with Judith Valente on Writing, Faith, and Naps](https://www.snoringscholar.com/words-judith-valente/) - So often, when I get the chance to read a really good book, I also have the chance to pester the author with questions. When I cornered interviewed Judith Valente about her book Atchison Blue for both CatholicMom.com and Integrated Catholic Life recently, I couldn't help but pester her ask her a few more questions for
- [What do you want from your parish? {Sacramental Preparation}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/want-parish-sacramental-preparation/) - Let's continue our discussion of what you want from your parish with sacramental preparation. How can your parish best aid you in your mission within your Domestic Church in the arena of preparing your family to receive the sacraments? What great experiences can you share from your own parish, or other good ones you've heard of?
- [What do you want from your parish? {Religious Education}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/want-parish-religious-education/) - Moving right along in our week-long discussion of what you want from your parish, let's dive into religious education, shall we? How can your parish best aid you in your mission within your Domestic Church by educating all members of your family in the faith. What great experiences can you share from your own parish,
- [What do you want from your parish? {Social, Admin, & Communications}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/want-parish-social-admin-communications/) - It's the last day of our week-long discussion of what you want from your parish with a topic that's near and dear to me. For ten years, I've worked on the social and administrative side of parish life. I've battled the ongoing communications foibles and hurdles. It's the invisible part of parish life, but such
- [What do you want from your parish? {Ministries}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/want-parish-ministries/) - Today, let's talk about what you want from your parish in the area of ministries. How can your parish best aid you in your mission within your Domestic Church in the arena of providing great ministry experiences, both within your parish and outside it, in the community? What great experiences can you share from your own
- [What do you want from your parish? {Worship}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/want-parish-worship/) - Lisa Hendey and I are giving two talks at the Los Angeles Religious Education Congress, and we need your help. One of the goals of this talk is to share with the participants specific feedback from the faithful in the pews on ways in which Catholic parishes can support and sustain families in their Domestic
- [I love iBreviary (and the Liturgy of the Hours).](https://www.snoringscholar.com/love-ibreviary-liturgy-hours/) - I've long loved the Liturgy of the Hours. There's something that's both organized and delightfully spontaneous about them. And that sentence doesn't make any sense until you experience praying them. Years ago, I bought the Book of Christian Prayer and that began a devotion that's been strong within me, if a bit haphazard in practice.
- [How I'm Traveling the World](https://www.snoringscholar.com/im-traveling-world/) - You know, being Catholic has placed a burden on me above and beyond the need to swim around in the grace of the sacraments. Now I want to travel, and not just a few hundred miles or to the other side of the country, but around the world. Before I was Catholic, I didn't care.
- [Why yes, I can talk apps!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/yes-can-talk-apps/) - I was on Drew Mariani's show today talking apps. Such fun! In case you want to know the apps we mentioned, here you go: Laudate - Google Play, iTunes CRS Rice Bowl app iBreviary Divine Office Vatican on Instagram (not really an app, but I love looking at it on my phone) Relevant Radio Universalis Light
- [7 Days to #ccwc14](https://www.snoringscholar.com/7-days-ccwc14/) - See you there? I'll be the lady with three screens and a crazy excited face...because I'm totally LIVE TWEETING (and updating Facebook). Be sure to follow @ColsCatholic and #ccwc14 on Twitter and keep up with the Columbus Catholic Women's page on Facebook.
- [The Old Tree](https://www.snoringscholar.com/old-tree/) - Today, I'm happy to welcome an old friend to my little cyber-sandbox. She's sharing a story that touches me every time I read it (I've read it a few times) and when she gave me permission to share it here, I was delighted. Enjoy! The Old Tree By Carol Ann Chybowski I was just a
- [So it's NOT just me?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/just/) - You or your hubs or both get home from work around 5 or 6. Dinner needs to be put on the table. Toddlers need to be coaxed into tasting everything even if they don’t think they’ll like it. Dishes need to be cleaned up. Then, all of a sudden, it is 8pm and the bedtime
- [Call for Videos: What Do You Want from Your Parish?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/call-videos-want-parish/) - In March, Lisa Hendey and I are presenting at the Los Angeles Religious Education Congress. As part of our presentation, we want to know: What do you want from your parish? We appreciate all responses, but what we REALLY want are 1-2 minute videos. You can make them with your phone, your tablet, or your
- [Baring My Heart a Bit](https://www.snoringscholar.com/baring-heart-bit/) - I can’t help but laugh at myself every time I see my kids prancing around the house, at least one of them naked, one of them screaming, and one of them careening with a bang. I watch them, basking in life and burning off their before-bed energy, and I turn my mind to heaven, to the
- [Got Time for a Home Visit? No? Why Not?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/got-time-home-visit/) - “Mom, there’s someone at the door.” It was a Saturday morning and I hadn’t showered yet. I’m pretty sure I had only had one cup of coffee, so all my brain cells weren’t firing yet. That must be why I responded completely intelligently with a “Whaaaa?” “There’s SOMEONE at the DOOR.” They hadn’t rung the
- [My Fertile Imagination {Mom to Mom}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/fertile-imagination-mom-mom/) - Have you struggled with infertility? In the letter that follows, Erin McCole Cupp shares some of her struggles and offers encouragement. And there are some book recommendations too, no extra charge. :) "My Fertile Imagination" By Erin McCole Cupp Dear Less-than-fertile Catholic Mom, I remember, during the year I was writing my first novel, walking
- [Gimme Shelter: It's on My To-Watch List](https://www.snoringscholar.com/gimme-shelter-watch-list/) - From the press release I received yesterday: Pro-life champion Kathy DiFiore has had a remarkable life filled with redemption and hope. A suburban wife and mother, she escaped an abusive marriage only to find herself homeless and on the street. She focused on saying the prayer of St. Francis and eventually was able to reclaim her
- [Goodbye, Media Blackout. Hello, #WalkforLife](https://www.snoringscholar.com/goodbye-media-blackout-hello-walkforlife/) - This just in from the folks behind the Walk for Life West Coast: Since the media is consistently ignoring us, we are going to make it hard for them to do so this year. Whether you are at the Walk or following at home, we ask everyone take out their cell phones and tweet that they are
- [In which I finally write about Confirmation Boot Camp](https://www.snoringscholar.com/finally-write-confirmation-boot-camp/) - For quite a few years, I remember hearing complaints about how confirmation classes were required and there was no way to get out of them, barring serious illness or death. But recently it seems there are more excuses for not attending confirmation classes—like a required sports practice or a pile of homework as big as
- [Catholic Family Fun is "a Five-Star Book"](https://www.snoringscholar.com/catholic-family-fun-five-star-book/) - According to book reviewing machine Stuart Dunn, whether you are a parent, grandparent, teacher, or catechist, you will find this 5-star book to be invaluable for many years. The book he's referring to is none other than my very own Catholic Family Fun: A Guide for the Adventurous, Overwhelmed, Creative, or Clueless. It IS the season
- [We ALL Have Skin in the Game](https://www.snoringscholar.com/skin-game/) - Being pro-life isn't just a religious issue. It's a human issue. In the research I did for my post about the Walk for Life West Coast, I was intrigued to find out that one of the main groups supporting the Walk is Secular Pro-Life. Read my full piece over at the Register.
- [At the Register: Walking for Life on the West Coast](https://www.snoringscholar.com/register-walking-life-west-coast/) - When I think of pro-life, I didn’t used to think of the West Coast. Part of that’s probably because I’m planted firmly here in the Midwest. And part of that’s probably because when I think “West Coast” I think of Oregon and San Francisco. And yet, one of the things on my “Things To Do”
- [Friendship and St. Francis de Sales](https://www.snoringscholar.com/friendship-st-francis-de-sales/) - Over at the Catholic Spiritual Direction Book Club, we're talking about St. Francis de Sales' Introduction to the Devout Life. This is my first week being part of the fun, and I jumped in right into a section that is one of my favorites. (What am I saying. The WHOLE BOOK is my favorite!) Oh, how
- [Holding Mary's Hand](https://www.snoringscholar.com/holding-marys-hand-2/) - One of my favorite pictures from my wedding is of my husband and I holding hands. The picture is a close-up of our hands, and in black-and-white, it seems to boil down to the essence of what marriage means to me. It’s a gripping, a clinging, a voluntary holding and clasping. There’s a story in people’s
- [Camp Songs and Mary and Joy](https://www.snoringscholar.com/camp-songs-mary-joy/) - I’m transported back to a time full of cafeteria food and camp songs. It’s a rowdy group of kids, led by a song leader, singing about joy down in their hearts. The air’s full of summertime: a week of swimming, crafts, canoeing, exploring, singing. I grew up the daughter of a camp manager. For me,
- [A Year Older (But No Wiser)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-year-older-but-no-wiser/) - Yesterday was my birthday. I don't like to talk about such things much here, because, well, I sort of have a "thing" about my birthday: I hate it. I've tried for years to overcome this (though, truly, I haven't tried that hard). Is it a matter of humility, of being able to just shut up
- [Listen Up](https://www.snoringscholar.com/listen-up/) - A Mary Moment Monday post My one-word resolution this year is LISTEN. For someone with a lot to say and a lot of words waiting to be used, there's a certain amount of challenge. Listen does not mean "observe." It does not equal half of my attention, while I'm doing three other things. It doesn't
- [They're NOT Resolutions, They're GOALS](https://www.snoringscholar.com/theyre-resolutions-theyre-goals/) - It's Lisa Hendey's fault. I was all set to just take the high road on resolutions (or not, as the case may be) or maybe just discern a word like I did a few years ago (I'm still on the same word, mind you...) But then Lisa had to write a post that not only
- [Because Yeah, Mary Was Human](https://www.snoringscholar.com/yeah-mary-human/) - I didn’t have a good excuse. No sudden death, news of great tragedy, or personal fall-through. The clock just met 4:00, the kid of choice started with the customary late afternoon ranting, and it all unraveled from there. Somehow, the everyday things – the weight of my worries, the onslaught of my duties, the trial of
- [Holiday Priorities and Neglectful Housekeeping {An Atheist and a Catholic}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/holiday-priorities-neglectful-housekeeping-atheist-catholic/) - Tis the season for...well, you'll see. Brittany on priorities: Holidays, especially this one spent living with my gracious family, put me in mind of priorities, and how different values can cause conflict. My husband and I are both neglectful housekeepers. Or maybe good-enough housekeepers. We cleaned a doctor's office for a while, and once
- [Add GoBible to your gift lists](https://www.snoringscholar.com/add-gobible-gift-lists/) - "You know, I just can't read the Bible!" I heard, in that, a plea for help. But I didn't know what to do. She wasn't just making excuses. I think if my mother-in-law was in school now, she would be taught to read and comprehend. I think, in fact, she might even enjoy reading. It doesn't
- [The Art of Spiritual Writing: Patience Is Key](https://www.snoringscholar.com/art-spiritual-writing-patience-key/) - Every so often, I get the chance to host someone here in my little cybersandbox who makes me feel like maybe, just maybe, I have Become A Real Blogger. Today is one of those days as I join the blog tour for Vinita Hampton Wright's latest book, The Art of Spiritual Writing. By Vinita Hampton Wright
- [How do you keep from being cynical during the holidays? {An Atheist and a Catholic}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/keep-cynical-holidays-atheist-catholic/) - Well, we're back, and this week we're right in the midst of what everyone else is, too. Sarah on not being cynical during the holidays: As for me, I don't. It's a constant battle. Which is where the Catholic Church has really helped me, to be honest. I can write off nearly all the
- [Bonding with Baby Before Birth {Mom to Mom}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/bonding-baby-birth-mom-mom/) - Today, a guest post that makes me think of how Mary must have felt all those years ago. Was it only eight years ago that I too was ready to burst, full of baby and hope and fear? It changed my approach to Christmas, that's for sure. How did you bond with your baby before
- [Ten and Three](https://www.snoringscholar.com/ten-three/) - Ten years ago: Three years ago: Today: We're fans of November 29. :)
- [The Best. Christmas Story Retelling. EVER.](https://www.snoringscholar.com/best-christmas-story-retelling-ever/) - See if you don't just melt: [youtube_sc url="http://youtu.be/aRdxtcelqik"] Video link
- [Blessings Are for Everyone {An Atheist and a Catholic}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/blessings-everyone-atheist-catholic/) - It's been a little bit craaaaaazy around here... We’re interrupting our regularly scheduled programming because Brittany and her guys are lucky enough to become temporarily homeless. Lucky because the whole family is helping them move tomorrow; Sarah’s making sloppy joes AND beef and noodles for all the helpers and assorted children; and they have a place
- [The Haiyan Effect: Our Call to Respond](https://www.snoringscholar.com/haiyan-effect-call-respond/) - Last week, as Super Typhoon Haiyan was unfolding, I blogged at the Register and kept myself as close as I could to the situation. And then my life hit. I haven't really been keeping up with any news reports this week due to some other circumstances, so today, when I heard about Catholic Relief Services'
- [Will You Join Me? #IStandWithThomasPeters](https://www.snoringscholar.com/will-join-istandwiththomaspeters/) - Tomorrow, we're hosting Small Success Thursday at CatholicMom.com and I need that. But tomorrow's also an important day for a young couple who many of us know and love: Thomas and Natalie Peters. So I'm jumping the gun here on the blog and sharing about it early, in the hope that you can plan to participate.
- [Tomato Pie and Novel Fun](https://www.snoringscholar.com/tomato-pie-novel-fun/) - I’m always looking for a good novel, and when I find one, I’m always eager to share about it. And in Erin McCole Cupp’s new novel, Don’t You Forget about Me, I have found a winner! This book has all the elements that make a book addictive: a compelling story told well with characters who are
- [How do beliefs inform your parenting? {An Atheist and a Catholic}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/beliefs-inform-parenting-atheist-catholic/) - Well, here we are, back again after a brief hiatus (which was totally my fault). Brittany on how beliefs inform her parenting: As someone who doesn't believe in the universe balancing things out or in an afterlife, it's up to people to make things fair. When you don't believe that suffering is rewarded in the
- [A Pile of New Mary Books (or, Things that Make Me Say YAY)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/pile-new-mary-books-things-make-say-yay/) - A Mary Moment Monday post As it happens, I have a pile of new Mary books. They all look great, and I'll be working them into my reading as I can. Quiet Moments: A Month with Mary (Twenty-Third Publications, 2013) This is a booklet of the "Quiet Moments" from Catholic Digest, all centered around Mary.
- [Talkin Slavery and Free Trade at the Register](https://www.snoringscholar.com/talkin-slavery-free-trade-register/) - When Catholic blogger Lisa Hendey went to Rwanda recently, I followed her status updates and blog posts with both trepidation and intrigue. A few days ago, she posted about slavery. She writes that the Vatican’s hosting a seminar entitled, “Trafficking in human beings: modern slavery. Destitute peoples and the message of Jesus Christ.” I’ll be watching for more about this
- [Would God have a bucket list? Teresa Tomeo says yes.](https://www.snoringscholar.com/god-bucket-list-teresa-tomeo-says-yes/) - Do you have a bucket list? Being a leeeeeeeeeetle bit (read: A LOT) organizationally minded, I thought about it. After all, I love lists. What's not to love about a list? And a list of lifetime goals? There's an appeal for me, I won't lie. But here's the thing: I wouldn't be able to stop. And
- [Mother of All Saints](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mother-saints/) - Hearing that my children resemble my husband warms my heart. My desire for my children is that they turn out like my husband. It’s not that I think I’m such a bad person, but that I have such admiration and respect for him. When I was wavering and unsure of myself, at what I think
- [To My Almost-Confirmed Niece](https://www.snoringscholar.com/almost-confirmed-niece/) - Dear Junie, We are so very proud of you. And though you're not confirmed yet, we're close enough for me to reflect on it. I remember you being born. You guys lived with Grammy for a few months before you moved, and I had an inside scoop to seeing little baby Junie in action. I
- [A Letter to My Newly Confirmed Niece](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-letter-to-my-newly-confirmed-niece/) - Dear Ree, There are some who will tell you that you're now an adult in the eyes of the Church. There's also an underlying expectation that you're "done" now that you're confirmed. Though there's truth in both of those, I hope you don't fall for the misleading lies beneath them both. You are an adult,
- [Trusting in God](https://www.snoringscholar.com/trusting-god/) - From my morning reading: May people today claim to love Jesus and call themselves Catholic, but they neither trust in Jesus nor in his Church. This is why I believe he wanted the specific phrase — Jesus, I trust in you — on the bottom of the Divine Mercy image. It could have read: "Jesus, I
- [Praying Like I Mean It](https://www.snoringscholar.com/praying-like-mean/) - I don't remember when I became such a fan of bearded men, but I think it has something to do with the young man I married nearly a decade ago. His beard reminds me of Kenny Rogers's beard, but that's not why I like it. For me, his beard represents all his hard work. Somehow,
- [Thoughts on Parenting and Motherhood {An Atheist and a Catholic}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/thoughts-parenting-motherhood-atheist-catholic/) - One of my passions is encouraging other moms, so it shouldn't be a surprise that I find myself encouraging Brittany, too. Her son is just over a year old (my kids are 8, 6, and 2-almost-3). We're very much in the trenches together and yet also in different places. Here's our recent conversation on parenting
- [Rules for Any Catholic Family](https://www.snoringscholar.com/rules-catholic-family/) - You know what I find myself struggling to read? Self-help books. Especially of the parenting kind. I suspect it has more to do with my pride than it does with me having any clue about what I'm doing. And I haven't read many of them (aside from Dr. Ray, who I follow like he's a
- [Thanks for supporting Light the Night with me!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/thanks-supporting-light-night/) - Thank you for your support of my Light the Night walk. I know I'll have more to say about it. For now, those two important words: THANK YOU!
- [One's harder than three](https://www.snoringscholar.com/ones-harder-three/) - That's my story and I'm stickin to it. (At the Register, that is.) Now pass the (2nd kid's) birthday cake.
- [A Celebration of Six](https://www.snoringscholar.com/celebration-six/) - Six years ago, our lives were transformed again, as three became four. And it's been a pile of laughs and drama ever since, with sparkles on top.
- [If you add a captcha to a hashtag, what do you get?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/add-captcha-hashtag-get/) - My latest at the National Catholic Register! I'd give you a scoop from it, but...well, let's just say that I invoke two of my favorite Catholic Techies and even link up to their highly amusing error pages. Now go forth and read. And like. And share. :)
- [On social justice and charity {An Atheist and a Catholic}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/social-justice-charity-atheist-catholic/) - Last week, Brittany led our discussion on faith and reason. Today, I'm diving into social justice, specifically as it applies to charity (as in "caritas" or love of neighbor). Sarah on Social Justice and Charity: There is a strong culture of social justice within Christianity. For me, this translates into putting what we believe into
- [Are faith and reason mutually exclusive? {An Atheist and a Catholic}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/faith-reason-mutually-exclusive-atheist-catholic/) - I will admit...I did NOT expect the engagement in last week's "Ask Anything: Open Combox" that we had. Thanks to everyone who chimed in. This week, we're starting a new format: one of us will open the discussion and the other will continue it. This week, Brittany opens things. Brittany on Faith and Reason: We
- [Missions, Fueled by a Child's Prayers](https://www.snoringscholar.com/missions-fueled-childs-prayers/) - Sunday, October 20 is World Mission Sunday and I'm part of a crazy idea to blog about missions. The farthest I've traveled is Canada, and that was back before you needed a passport to go there. It was a dairy farm tour (yes, I was a Dairy Club member at my university, though I did
- [Finding Yourself in an Unexpected Place {Mom to Mom}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/finding-unexpected-place-mom-mom/) - OF COURSE you've found something where you least expect it: your phone, the remote, that missing sock. Today, Kathy Club asks us to consider if we might find more than what's in our hands... Finding Yourself in an Unexpected Place By Kathy Clubb Have you ever found yourself wondering how you ended up in
- [Newly Married? I Have a Book for You! "Just Married"](https://www.snoringscholar.com/newly-married-book-just-married/) - When the new Popcak book came my way, I was hesitant. I suppose I thought I'd seen enough in real life that I didn't need a stinkin' marriage help book. I don't need to hear about flower power and snappy sappy stuff. No thanks. Marriage is work. Don't try to give me roses and tell me
- [On the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/on-feast-our-lady-of-the-rosary/) - I love the story of Our Lady of the Rosary. I love the rosary. No surprise, then, that I'm over at Catholic Exchange today with some of both. As a new member of the Catholic Church, there were many “secret handshakes” that baffled me. There were a lot of questions I didn’t even know I
- [3 Truths for My Children {Mom to Mom}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/3-truths-children-mom-mom/) - Today's guest post challenges us to consider: if our children could remember only three things from us to take with them into adulthood, what would you want them to be? 3 Truths for My Children By Melanie Jean Juneau As a Catholic mothers it seems to me that our commission from God is quite basic
- [Another Saint to "Light the Night"](https://www.snoringscholar.com/another-saint-light-night/) - A few weeks ago on Facebook, one of my friends shared that he entrusts cancer patients to Blessed Chiara Luce Badano. I already dedicated my "Light the Night" walk to St. Peregrine, who's the official patron of cancer, but I couldn't help but look up Blessed Chiara. After reading about her, I've decided she's on
- [Ask Anything: Open Combox {An Atheist and a Catholic}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/ask-anything-open-combox-atheist-catholic/) - Welcome! This celebrates our 10th week of "An Atheist and a Catholic" here, and to celebrate that, we thought we'd try an "Ask Anything" day. So...ask anything! Brittany and I will be monitoring the combox all day (and for however long...we get email alerts). Not sure what to ask? Well, catch up on your reading...you
- [Lino's Not a Saint...Yet: Rulli's New Book and an Interview](https://www.snoringscholar.com/linos-saint-yet-rullis-new-book-words/) - Though I'll admit that I don't listen to Lino Rulli's Catholic Guy show, I've been a fan of his since about five minutes before his last book, Sinner: The Catholic Guy's Funny, Feeble Attempts to Be a Faithful Catholic, came out. It made my list of favorite nonfiction from 2011 and remains a book that I recommend
- [What I wish I'd known as a new mom {Mom to Mom}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/what-i-wish-id-known-as-a-new-mom-mom-to-mom/) - I always hesitate to admit that I was never going to be a mom. It wasn't on my bucket list, in my goals, or on my radar. It wasn't just the farthest thing from me, it was completely not going to happen. Once I became Catholic, and once I knew I would be marrying him,
- [Can Rock Bottom Be Good?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/can-rock-bottom-good/) - There's a reason to like rocky bottoms. If you've ever felt your feet squelch into the uncertain flooring of a body of what that may or may not have creepy crawly yuckies in it, you know what I mean. The smooth feel of a rocky bottom, though: yeah, the creepy crawlies can hide just as
- [Atheist children, hated religious practices, & more {An Atheist and a Catholic}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/child-turns-atheist-atheist-catholic/) - Last week, after our discussion about virtue, I admitted that I didn't know what this week would hold. Well, here's a little turning of the tables: Brittany has questions for me this week. And rather than spend 500 words on each one, I'm keeping it brief. (Or as brief as I can. You can see
- [Messy Life, a Monastery, and the Color Blue: Reading Atchison Blue](https://www.snoringscholar.com/messy-life-monastery-color-blue-reading-atchison-blue/) - When it arrived, I thought it had a pretty cover. And then, given the pile on my recently-downsized-but-still-daunting to-review shelf, I promptly put it on my giveaway shelf. And then my fine contact at the Patheos Book Club showed up in my inbox. So here I am, having read the book with the pretty cover.
- [Elizabeth Foss on Small Steps](https://www.snoringscholar.com/elizabeth-foss-small-steps/) - Today, a treat that's so big I might just have to interrupt my typing to go change my pants. Because yes, it is a pee-my-pants-excitement moment for the fangirl Jack Russell in me. You see, my friends, today I welcome Elizabeth Foss—THE Elizabeth Foss—to my little corner of cyberspace. She's here to share some words
- [Turns out I *like* rocks (& the "Rock-Bottom" book too)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/turns-like-rocks-rock-bottom-book/) - It didn't start out bizarre. It was just a Sunday, one where we were scrambling out the door, I was sidetracked by computer stuff (for the parish, no less), and I had a catechist lunch afterward but hadn't planned for transportation. No big deal. In fact, the desserts at the lunch were by my favorite
- [From One Mom to Another {Mom to Mom}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/from-one-mom-to-another/) - A Mary Moment Monday post that's also a Mom to Mom post She's been there first. Whether it's teething or diapers or attitudes, she's dealt with it. Whether it's frustration or anger or depression, she's felt it. Whether it's small smiles, great weather, or overwhelming awesomeness, she's had it. There are so many ways I turn
- [Can you have a life of virtue without God? {An Atheist and a Catholic}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/topic-atheist-catholic/) - Last week, we discussed whether there's a greater good and whether there's any good to a greater good. Today we're talking about virtue and a well-lived life. And next week...well, I don't know yet. :) On Friday, September 27, please plan to join our open combox "Ask Anything." Brittany and I will be replying and
- [Walking with Mary: Grab Her Hand and Let's Go!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/walking-with-mary/) - My introduction to Dr. Edward Sri's writing was a few years ago, when he wrote a thoughtful, bite-sized book about the Mass. His latest book, Walking with Mary: A Biblical Journey from Nazareth to the Cross, caught my attention in part because I loved his writing so much in that earlier book. Walking with Mary is one
- [A collection of stories so real, I had to pinch myself](https://www.snoringscholar.com/collection-stories-real-pinch/) - A Hero for the People: Stories of the Brazilian Backlands, by Arthur Powers, is a book I stumbled upon. I didn't expect it to be good, much less at the "write to the author and ask for an interview" level. I didn't expect much from it. I found myself, about a third of the way
- [Making Disciples: Easier Said than Done](https://www.snoringscholar.com/making-disciples-easier-said-done/) - This summer, I've had discipleship on my mind. And I know just who to blame. First, I blame my colleagues at CatholicMom.com, because I've been part of the Lawn Chair Catechism study this summer, and as a result, I've been reading Sherry Weddell's Forming Intentional Disciples (Our Sunday Visitor, 2012) very carefully and writing about
- [Is there a greater good? What good are nonbelievers? {An Atheist and a Catholic}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/is-there-greater-good-what-good-are-nonbelievers-atheist-catholic/) - Last week, our topic was the inner longing for God we all have (or don't, as the case may be). And I couldn't help but ask what it would take for Brittany to be a believer. This week, we're talking greater good. And motherhood. (Because I can.) Have a question you want to ask Brittany
- ["Light the Night" Became REALLY Personal](https://www.snoringscholar.com/light-night-became-really-personal/) - Last week, I mentioned that I'm joining the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's "Light the Night" walk and I asked for your support with both prayers and funds. But now, now it's personal. Meet the woman we called Nini. She impacted a lot of lives in her 82 years, and there aren't a lot of dry eyes
- [Help me "Light the Night" and support lymphoma research](https://www.snoringscholar.com/help-light-night-support-lymphoma-research/) - You know what I love about being Catholic? The works of mercy. They're faith in action. They're actions speak louder. They're hands-on, tangible, touch-and-see-and-feel. And they're hard. I'm in a season when I consider "feeding the hungry" done if I successfully make dinner. I've been suspecting lately that there might be some slactivism at work in my
- [Paula Huston writes a novel (and I love it!): A Land Without Sin](https://www.snoringscholar.com/paula-huston-writes-novel-love-land-without-sin/) - I didn’t expect to read A Land Without Sin in a weekend, so be warned. This is a well-crafted and very compelling novel. The storyline is pretty basic, when I think about it: main character Eva is trying to find her missing brother Stefan. It involves a journey through Central America, some flirting with politics at
- [Is there a longing for God? {An Atheist and a Catholic}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/longing-god-atheist-catholic/) - Last week, we discussed the "isms" that abound. Today, we're going to talk about the inner longing for God we all have (or don't, as the case may be). And yes, I can't help but ask what it will take for Brittany to be a believer. Have a question you want to ask Brittany or
- [Singing Dominican Sisters and an Interview I Loved](https://www.snoringscholar.com/singing-dominican-sisters-interview-loved/) - I used to think it must be so boooooorrrrrriiiinnnnng to be a religious sister. I mean, what would you do for fun? Pray? I’ve come a long way since those days. Now, I struggle not to see religious life as so much better and holier than the messy chaos my life sometimes seems to
- [What's with all the -ism? {An Atheist and a Catholic}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/whats-ism-atheist-catholic/) - Last week, Brittany talked about persuasive methods and how they relate to religion. This week, we're going to dive into some "-ism" talk. Also, a bit of news. I'm joining Brittany in walking in the Light the Night event here in central Ohio on October 12. I keep meaning to do a blog post about
- [Giants? Bring em! {Review of Five Stones}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/giants-bring-em-review-of-five-stones/) - You know what I love? That the Bible stories I've grown up with stand up to the test of time and yield more than just the story itself. Take the story of David and Goliath, for example. In fact, that's just what the new book Five Stones: Conquering Your Giants, by Shane Stanford and Brad Martin, does. {My review of the book follows.}
- [Mater Eucharistiae, in which sisters sing some awesomeness](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mater-eucharistiae-in-which-sisters-sing-some-awesomeness/) - Remember the Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist? They're the sisters (they're not nuns) who took the American Bible Challenge by storm earlier this year. And now they're joining the ranks of singing sisters who will, I hope, take the charts by storm. From the press release: And now, the Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the
- [Who are we persuading, and why? {An Atheist and a Catholic}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/who-are-we-persuading-and-why-an-atheist-and-a-catholic/) - You know, it didn't strike me until last week that Brittany is taking a real chance with this series. I always forget that discussion and truly open (as in "no throwing nasty words or sharp objects") dialogue isn't always...welcome. Last week we talked about whether religion is something to be "free from." This week, we're going
- [An Atheist and a Catholic: A New Series](https://www.snoringscholar.com/an-atheist-and-a-catholic-a-new-series/) - Sounds like I'm going to start a joke, huh? But no, that's the name of a new series here where my atheist sister-in-law and I will be holding discussions about our beliefs and what unites us. Atheists are not aliens. (And neither are Catholics, I'd like to add.) They're people. And just as Christians are
- [What do you mean, God's in the Bible?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/what-do-you-mean-gods-in-the-bible/) - Yeah, yeah, I know. God's in the Bible. So why did I need to read a book that seems to state the obvious? My attitude isn't always the greatest when I find out what books I've drawn for the Patheos Book Club, lemme tell ya, and this latest one was no different. Finding God in
- [The Assumption: A Taste of Flesh and Blood](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-assumption-a-taste-of-flesh-and-blood/) - A Mary Moment Monday post that's also a book excerpt In the Assumption, we get a taste of flesh and blood. It’s a mystery of the Rosary that, to me, blends the joy of family members all hugging each other with the brilliancy of great details. Details make all the difference, don’t they? Knowing that
- [Is religion something to be free from? {An Atheist and a Catholic}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/freedom-from-religion-an-atheist-and-a-catholic/) - Last week, we discussed Brittany's approach to atheism. This week, we'll be looking at whether religion is something we need to be freed from. You can see all the posts in the An Atheist and a Catholic series here. Sarah: Why is it necessary to be "free" from religion? In what ways is religion an evil
- [An approach to atheism {An Atheist and a Catholic}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/an-approach-to-atheism-an-atheist-and-a-catholic/) - This week, Brittany and I are talking about her approach to atheism, what's shaped her beliefs, and motivations for doing good. For the background about this series, check out my introduction last week. Sarah: What's your approach to atheism and, on the contrary, to religion? Brittany: My approach to both is to not focus on beliefs so much as
- [What goes into an app? Let's find out with Allison Gingras!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/what-goes-into-an-app-lets-find-out-with-allison-gingras/) - When I first heard about Allison Gingras's new app idea, I was excited. When I found out that the word's not getting out about it, I realized that, as a huge advocate of awesome Catholic apps, I have some responsibility here. I mean, come on! She's working with the best of the best when it comes to
- [Mama cares about the details.](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mama-cares-about-the-details/) - A Mary Moment Monday post It was a special Christmas. Our family, who lived 1500 miles away, was coming to visit, and our almost-three-year-old daughter was beside herself. Santa took a back seat to her cousins, and with good reason. We used the week together to make many memories and take hundreds of pictures. I remember
- [A Different Perspective: Failed Christian](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-different-perspective-failed-christian/) - This is the first in the guests posts by Brittany in the Different Perspective series. Hi, I’m Brittany, and I’m an atheist. Sometimes, I really feel like my personal beliefs are a character flaw rather than an important freedom. Maybe “failed Christian” would be a more appropriate moniker, because although I am an atheist now,
- [A Different Perspective: Child Skeptic](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-different-perspective-child-skeptic/) - This is part of the continuing guest posts by Brittany in the Different Perspective series. Even as a small child, I had skeptical tendencies. As a toddler, I had to personally determine whether “hot” meant the same thing for fire, water, the furnace, the stove, candles, and the liquid potpourri. (I like to think that
- [A Different Perspective: Respectful Family Member](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-different-perspective-respectful-family-member/) - This is part of the continuing guest posts by Brittany in the Different Perspective series. The answer to my questions about God came in the form of the most wonderful boy I had ever met, and the most loving and accepting set of in-laws that I could ever hope for. I had no reason not
- [A Different Perspective: Coming Out as an Atheist](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-different-perspective-coming-out-as-an-atheist/) - This is part of the continuing guest posts by Brittany in the Different Perspective series. As an atheist, I have kept my beliefs to myself for a long time, because I was afraid what people would think about me. Atheists are one of the most disliked and least trusted groups in America according to public
- [A Different Perspective: Religion Is Not Bad](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-different-perspective-religion-is-not-bad/) - This is part of the continuing guest posts by Brittany in the Different Perspective series. I would argue that religions are desirable, in addition to rather inevitable and predictable. The idea of a divine protector gives comfort to people. Being optimistic about the future is good. People who are optimistic are more likely to survive
- [A Different Perspective: We're Not That Different](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-different-perspective-were-not-that-different/) - This is the concluding of Brittany's guest posts in the Different Perspective series. Neither side has proof that the other side is incorrect; it comes down to belief. I believe modern science provides a convincing and simple explanation of extraordinary beliefs; this is more convincing to me than assuming there is some higher power, and
- [It's all in how I start](https://www.snoringscholar.com/its-all-in-how-i-start/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I'm an early riser by nature. (That does NOT make me a Morning Person. Nooooooooo.) When the pup's pestering me at 5:30 in the morning, I'm sometimes already awake (depending on how late I stayed up reading). I'm pretty okay with stumbling out of bed, making my coffee elixir and savoring
- [My 3 Go-To Meals (or, even a lazy mom can have clean-platers)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-3-go-to-meals-or-even-a-lazy-mom-can-have-clean-platers/) - Normally, I would skip posting today and call it good, especially given the fact that fair is going on and VBS preparation is underway (and someone you know is running our parish's VBS this year) and the Confirmation retreat is coming and hey! It's summer! Which means chaos! But then Jen has to say something
- [Waking Up Catholic, the Book](https://www.snoringscholar.com/waking-up-catholic-the-book/) - The premise behind Chad Torgerson's new release, Waking Up Catholic: A Guide to Catholic Beliefs for Converts, Reverts, and Anyone Becoming Catholic, isn't a new one. He wants to help people understand what the Catholic Church teaches. It's a laudable goal. What's different about this book than what I expected from another Catholic guide can be found,
- [Broken Dreams and New Beginnings with Resurrection Year](https://www.snoringscholar.com/broken-dreams-and-new-beginnings-with-resurrection-year/) - Those who suffer from infertility bear a special sort of cross, and it's one that breaks my heart. It's among the pain I wish I could bear for those I love. I don't wish it on anyone. Our world got so tiny, our vision got so small—confined to the walls of our problems. For us it
- [In which @MeredithGould answers burning questions about #SocMGospel](https://www.snoringscholar.com/in-which-meredithgould-answers-burning-questions-about-socmgospel/) - World, meet Meredith Gould. Oh, you already knew her? Well, that figures. But I'm not surprised. {I'd like to note that she got that great clock for only $8.95. I suspect there's more to the story, but the fact that she let me use that picture is simply great, don't you think?} I met Meredith
- [The Social Media Gospel (or #SocMGospel for those in the know)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-social-media-gospel-or-socmgospel-for-those-in-the-know/) - You may get the feeling that the Patheos Book Club is a primary source of my reading these days, and you'd be partially right. I'm okay with that. Even the books that leave me enh give me something to think about and force me to formulate my thoughts (it's good practice for a hack reviewer
- [A Twitterview with @10MinuteWriter about Her Awesome New Book](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-twitterview-with-10minutewriter-about-her-awesome-new-book/) - I found Katharine Grubb's blog, 10 Minute Writer, via a mention at Conversion Diary (the comment about learning more about writing from Katharine's blog than a book on writing totally roped me in). I followed her blog for a while and then discovered, to my delight, that @10MinuteWriter is one of the most hilarious, entertaining, and
- [7 Reasons I'm Reading This Book NEXT](https://www.snoringscholar.com/7-reasons-im-reading-this-book-next/) - I was supposed to blog about this LAST Friday, but in the spirit of "better late than never," Slacker Sarah is here with last week's news. --- 1 --- Have you seen this fresh-off-the-presses new release? On Heaven and Earth, by Pope Francis (that's Jorge Mario Bergoglio pre-papacy). --- 2 --- Then watch this.
- [Francis: Man of Prayer {A Review}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/francis-man-of-prayer-a-review/) - Like so many others, I've been really taken (smitten?) with Pope Francis. Maybe it's that I've become more and more of a Catholic Geek since 2001. Maybe it's that my addictive nature needs something to glom onto. Maybe it's that I'm avoiding cooking. I have a shelf filling quickly with Pope Francis books: books by
- [Why the Hail Mary is my blankie prayer, my go-to phone line, and so much more.](https://www.snoringscholar.com/why-the-hail-mary-is-my-blankie-prayer-my-go-to-phone-line-and-so-much-more/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I learned the Hail Mary sitting on a mattress on the floor, in the upstairs room of the last apartment I lived in before I got married. I was newly Catholic and I had a special intention. I was convinced the Blessed Mother would work a miracle if only I bugged
- [Could Obamacare inadvertently legalize physician-assisted suicide?  ](https://www.snoringscholar.com/could-obamacare-inadvertently-legalize-physician-assisted-suicide/) - Today, I'm glad to have a bit of an expert on this to share some thoughts with us about the dangers that the Affordable Care Act could create. These life issues topics are near and dear to my heart, and, honestly, they should be in ALL of our prayers. --Sarah Could Obamacare inadvertently legalize physician-assisted
- [I hate crying, but that doesn't stop anything.](https://www.snoringscholar.com/i-hate-crying-but-that-doesnt-stop-anything/) - I’m a dry-eyed gal most of the time, and I have always prided myself on that trait. Then I started going to Mass. I certainly didn’t mean to turn into a blubbering mess. At the time, I was a tough know-it-all college graduate, and I was only there because this good-looking Prince Charming of mine
- [Praying with Mary from Pope Francis](https://www.snoringscholar.com/praying-with-mary-from-pope-francis/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Found this over at Father Z's as I was putzing around the internet, checking out what Pope Francis has said about Mary. Mother of the silence that preserves the mystery of God, deliver us from the idolatry of the present, to which those who forget are condemned. Purify the eyes
- [Supporting the Larger Church](https://www.snoringscholar.com/supporting-the-larger-church/) - (Note: this is part of an email conversation I had with a parishioner who's dear to my heart. I am sharing it here because I think some of you will have some great insight on this. Maybe I tow the "party line" too much, I don't know. But I do feel that we need to
- [Prayer for the United States](https://www.snoringscholar.com/prayer-for-the-united-states/) - As we pause to celebrate our independence and our freedom, let's remember that our country needs a lot of prayer.
- [A Closer Look at Father Kapaun](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-closer-look-at-father-kapaun/) - With Independence Day upon us, here's an American hero that Catholics can especially turn to as the world's reasoning starts to look a lot more crazy than usual: Father Emil Kapaun, focus of the recent book The Miracle of Father Kapaun: Priest, Soldier, and Korean War Hero. Emil Kapaun—priest, soldier and Korean War hero—is a rare
- [Horse in the Wilderness: A Review](https://www.snoringscholar.com/horse-in-the-wilderness-a-review/) - Horse in the Wilderness, by Debbie Eckles (WestBow Press, 2013) This book has a lot of potential and a good story buried within it. There's a good story in this book, but unfortunately, it was published before that story could get polished. This is an example of a book that needed editing on a level
- [I'm Primed. Pass the Paint, Please.](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-primer-that-made-me-want-to-read-more/) - About seven years ago, my husband took a philosophy course as part of his first year of undergraduate courses. It was great to listen to him talk about it and it got me really interested in the subject in a more scholarly way. Somehow I had avoided an actual philosophy course in my own college
- [Tears as Gift](https://www.snoringscholar.com/tears-as-gift/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I hate crying. As a certified (and probably certifiable) ENTJ, I hate the fact that I have this tendency to...cry. I don't mind it in others; I can even see it as a beautiful expression of the moving of that person's heart. I don't mind sentimentality so much in other
- [Rapunzel Doesn't Let Down](https://www.snoringscholar.com/rapunzel-doesnt-let-down/) - I'm pretty guilty of not knowing my fairy tales that well. And I have Regina Doman to thank for not only educating me in the last few years with her Fairy Tale Novels, but for also making them relevant to modern life. Her latest installment, Rapunzel Let Down, is categorized adult fiction (all the others are
- [Summering with Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/summering-with-mary/) - A Mary Moment Monday post We have fields of corn surrounding our house this year, growing into a threefold fence of waving green. There's a smell to corn as it grows and almost a taste to the green. Aside from the right-before-it's-ready-to-be-harvested gold that's sweeping through the wheat fields right now, the green of corn
- [Inspired by Pope Francis](https://www.snoringscholar.com/inspired-by-pope-francis/) - This is the kind of news I love. From an email this weekend: I wanted to bring this piece of local news to your attention. It's my son, Alex. He just made First Holy Communion and received money for the occasion. He decided to donate all of it to the local Ecumenical Kitchen. He is
- [Finding Mary in the Confirmation Candidates](https://www.snoringscholar.com/finding-mary-in-the-confirmation-candidates/) - A Mary Moment Monday post This week, I'm doing one of my favorite things: teaching and supporting our parish's Confirmation Boot Camp. Over the three years that I've been involved with this, I've found my own faith deepening. In the time that I've studied and prepared, in the time that I've taught and interacted, in
- [Tips for Your Child’s First Trip to the Dentist](https://www.snoringscholar.com/tips-for-your-childs-trip-to-the-dentist/) - By Aaron Schulman It is normal as a parent to be nervous about taking a young child to the dentist for the first time. How will they react? Will they be traumatized? Will I be able to handle the situation? All of these are valid questions and concerns. With a little bit of thought and
- [Finding Myself in His Sacred Heart](https://www.snoringscholar.com/finding-myself-in-his-sacred-heart/) - A Mary Moment Monday post When the boyfriend who would become my husband told me he couldn't go on a hiking date because he had to go to Mass, he pretty much guaranteed I'd be going with him sometime soon. I mean, how could he put me off for church? How could he resist the chance
- [Evil Overlords-in-Training, Take Note!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/evil-overlords-in-training-take-note/) - Are you aiming for world domination? Looking for tips on minions and henchpeople? Need a boost to your moral in a world that just doesn't appreciate evil the way it should? Look no further, because I have the book for you! A Method to the Madness: A Guide to the Super Evil is a collection of
- [Consuming the Word: A Scott Hahn Book I Loved](https://www.snoringscholar.com/consuming-the-word-a-scott-hahn-book-i-loved/) - Twelve years ago, when I was buying and reading and borrowing every book Padre recommended, I read quite a bit of Scott Hahn. I can't remember if I started with Hail Holy Queen or The Lamb's Supper, but I devoured them both, along with at least two or three others. I went to a Lamb's Supper Bible study Father
- [Idols in Everyday Life? Where?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/idols-in-everyday-life-where-strange-gods-revie/) - I'm no expert on Elizabeth Scalia, except that every time I take the time to read her or listen to her, I'm struck to the core. I'm not a newsie, so I often find myself not reading her blog. Even so, I'll catch her commentaries on things that not only hit the nail on the
- [21 Ways to Worship (and then some)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/review-of-21-ways-to-worship/) - Anytime people start talking about Eucharistic Adoration, one question always seems to come up: "A whole hour? What'll I do for a whole hour?" Thus begins Vinny Flynn's new book, 21 Ways to Worship: A Guide to Eucharistic Adoration. I'll admit, I only read it because my arm was twisted. I thought I knew the tone it
- [Should NFP Be Easy? {Mom to Mom}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/should-nfp-be-easy-mom-to-mom/) - Today it's a pleasure to host another special "Mom to Mom" post. And it's not an easy topic...so I'm glad *I* am not the one to tackle it... Update: NFP stands for Natural Family Planning. Learn more from the USCCB and the Couple to Couple League. By Jennifer Fitz When we were younger, NFP was more difficult.
- [More or Less (or Something Else?)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/more-or-less-or-something-else/) - It was the Saturday before Easter, as I recall. I had rolled out of bed to work on my honors project, and I was putting the coffee into the coffeemaker when it struck me that it was VERY STRANGE that someone was having a cookout at 8 (or was it 7? or 9?) in the
- [Why May and Mary go together so well...](https://www.snoringscholar.com/why-may-and-mary-go-together-so-well/) - ...cue the music (or is it just me?). I'm over at Catholic Exchange: This is one of those years where it’s striking me particularly hard that May is Mary’s month. As busy, as crazy, as chaotic as it is, it’s Mary’s month. As hare-brained as I am, as filled to the max with unfinished tasks, as
- [7 Gift Ideas for Moms](https://www.snoringscholar.com/7-gift-ideas-for-moms/) - Tis the season for stressing thinking about another gift-giving opportunity, so I bring you... --- Time Alone --- Some moms could just really use some time to recharge by being alone. That means no one else is around. Oh yes, you can be awesome and give her an entire Saturday, but you could also arrange to give her
- [God's Favorite Place on Earth](https://www.snoringscholar.com/gods-favorite-place-on-earth/) - Last week, if you had asked me, in all seriousness, where God's favorite place was on earth—or if he even had one—I would have probably wrinkled my eyebrows and then defaulted into "Well, duh! Ohio!" as a non-answer. Because, really? A favorite place on earth? For God? Blame the Patheos Book Club (again!) for introducing me to
- [When the Rubber Meets the Road](https://www.snoringscholar.com/when-the-rubber-meets-the-road/) - Today I'm guest posting over at Kathleen Basi's place as part of her great new book's blog tour. She asked me to reflect on the "rubber meets the road" commandments, the 4th-10th, and how they tie in with the Beatitude, "Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy." So often, I love the thinking,
- [5 Reasons You Need Random MOMents of Grace](https://www.snoringscholar.com/random-moments-of-grace/) - Be sure to enter to win a copy of this book. Leave a comment below or on yesterday's giveaway post (or hey, because I am a generous person, in BOTH places). Some books are good reading, but when you're done with them, you shelve them, let them collect dust, and eventually give them away to an
- [Signal Graces and Paperback Books](https://www.snoringscholar.com/signal-graces-and-paperback-books/) - By Chad Torgerson Procrastination and a lack of organization are my greatest weaknesses. Luckily for me, my wife is the complete opposite, and she knows how to “motivate” me in the right direction. It was for that very reason that I decided to form a new publishing company with her. I am getting ready to
- [A Spring "Yes"](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-spring-yes/) - It’s that time of year when I start to question my approach to productivity. It’s that time of year when I remember why the outdoors is one of my favorite places to be. It’s that time of year when I’m glad I live in a part of the world that has distinct seasons. This spring
- [The 3 B's of Catholic Womanhood](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-3-bs-of-catholic-womanhood/) - I can tell you already that one of the books on my "Best of 2013" list is the newly released brilliance in B by Pat Gohn, Blessed, Beautiful, and Bodacious: Celebrating the Gift of Catholic Womanhood. For one thing, there's the title. Pat has a streak of sassy New England, and she also has a swash of
- [5 Tips for Celebrating First Communion withOUT Stress](https://www.snoringscholar.com/first-communion-post/) - Proud to be part of the First Communion Promenade. (Don't hold it against them for letting me in, okay?) Be sure to check out all the posts we've done this week, and link up your First Communion posts on Monday! April 8 - Catholic Icing with First Communion Banner Ideas April 9 - Catholic Mom with First Communion Memories April
- [I'm rooting for the Dominican Sisters!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/im-rooting-for-the-dominican-sisters/) - I have to be honest: I haven't yet watched an episode of The American Bible Challenge. It has an inherent appeal to me: not only are there Dominican Sisters competing, but Jeff Foxworthy is hosting it. (And yes, I'm {insert complimentary synonym for redneck} enough to love Jeff. I mean, what's not to love? He's practically family.)
- [A Two-fer Review: Soul Reader & Poor Banished Children](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-two-fer-review-soul-reader-poor-banished-children/) - There are few things I like better than a good story. Even a good cup of coffee stands second to a really good story. So here are two novels I've read recently that get high recommendations from me. Enjoy! The Soul Reader, by Gerard Webster Though this is a sequel to Webster's first book, In-Sight,
- [Dirt Therapy Taken to a New Level](https://www.snoringscholar.com/dirt-therapy-taken-to-a-new-level/) - Two summers ago, I bought two copies of A Garden of Visible Prayer: Creating a Personal Sacred Space One Step at a Time, by Margaret Rose Realy. One copy was for myself. The other copy was for my mother-in-law. It went with the handmade rosary Margaret crafted (I wish she sold them online!), and it was a
- [Trusting God with My Dirt](https://www.snoringscholar.com/trusting-god-with-my-dirt/) - Spring is well underway--with all its gusty unpredictability, and I'm left with a lot of mud on my hands. It's on our shoes, in the yard, and seemingly on flat surface of my home on some days. I can't help but be grateful on so many levels. Mud means spring, and spring means many of my
- [Vote for Falling for Your Madness!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/vote-for-falling-for-your-madness/) - File this under "I knew her when..." You may recall that I put together a "Best Fiction I Read in 2012" list over at CatholicMom.com early this year. On that list was a book I still love, the first novel by my friend Katharine Grubb of 10 Minute Writer, Falling for Your Madness. I raved about it
- [Catholics Come Home, the book](https://www.snoringscholar.com/catholics-come-home/) - I've been a fan of Catholics Come Home for quite a while, so when I saw that the founder had written a book (called, appropriately enough, Catholics Come Home: God's Extraordinary Plan for Your Life), I was interested. It was a fast read--11 chapters that have advice and insight that, while not earth-shattering or exactly new,
- [That's one way to learn Spanish](https://www.snoringscholar.com/thats-one-way-to-learn-spanish/) - I've had a half-hearted desire to learn Spanish for some time. Don't get the mistaken impression from that that I have actually done anything beyond thinking (and maybe once or twice saying out loud), "Hmm. I should learn Spanish. That might be useful." Nope. I have plenty of excuses: the reading piles, the work piles,
- [Dominican Sisters on the Bible Challenge](https://www.snoringscholar.com/dominican-sisters-on-the-bible-challenge/) - This is too cool NOT to share: The American Bible Challenge Promo from propeller on GodTube. This Thursday, March 21, the second season of the American Bible Challenge begins. And the Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist are contestants! From the press release I received: The American Bible Challenge is providing an entertaining mix
- [The Joy of Mary's Marriage to Joseph](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-joy-of-marys-marriage-to-joseph/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Mary and Joseph’s marriage didn’t exactly get off to an easy start. They were engaged and Joseph had promised not to “defile” Mary, because she was a consecrated virgin. He was really only marrying her because, in that day and age, there was no security in being a single woman.
- [Habemus Papam](https://www.snoringscholar.com/habemus-papam/) - A day in 2005. I was a new mom, a fairly new hand at parish secretarying, and still very much a searching sort of newbie Catholic. My baby was napping, I was trying to get work done, and I have no idea what clued me in to turn on the little 14-inch (or was it
- [My Sisters the Saints: A Book Review](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-sisters-the-saints-a-book-review/) - I'm always a little scared, lately, when I agree to read something that is either biography or memoir. Though they can be well-done (and often are), they can also represent a genre that, well, sends me packing and screaming and launching a book across the room. I was unable, though, to turn down the chance
- [A C.S. Lewis Biography I'm Glad I Read](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-c-s-lewis-biography-im-glad-i-read/) - I've been fascinated with C.S. Lewis in a arms-length sort of way for quite some time. I read the Chronicles of Narnia in late grade school and loved them. I rediscovered and reread them with my husband when the first movie came out in 2005 and loved them even more. His fiction has continued to fascinate
- [The Screwtape Letters, by C.S. Lewis](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-screwtape-letters-by-c-s-lewis/) - The Screwtape Letters, by C.S. Lewis, is such a delightful book, and I had the joy of rereading recently, thanks to a summer book study with other women in our parish. Since I was the facilitator of said group, I had to do my legwork, but the real enjoyment for me came from the discussions
- [Out of the Silent Planet, by C.S. Lewis](https://www.snoringscholar.com/out-of-the-silent-planet-by-c-s-lewis/) - Ever since I reunited with C.S. Lewis’s Chronicles of Narnia at the end of the year last year, right before LWW came out on the silver screen, I’ve heard that I should read his space trilogy. “Yeah, yeah, yeah,” I thought. It can’t be better than the Narnia books.Then I read the Screwtape Letters, twice,
- [Latest Catholic Family Fun Activity & Newsletter Update](https://www.snoringscholar.com/latest-catholic-family-fun-activity-newsletter-update/) - Catholic Family Fun Update: For the last twelve months, since the release of my book Catholic Family Fun: A Guide for the Adventurous, Overwhelmed, Creative, or Clueless, I've been writing two updates each month at CatholicFamilyFun.com: a monthly activity and a "Just for Moms" column. Exciting news! We're moving to video updates each month beginning this April.
- [Ignatius of Loyola on Suffering](https://www.snoringscholar.com/ignatius-of-loyola-on-suffering/) - If God gives you an abundant harvest of trials, it is a sign of great holiness which He desires you to attain. Do you want to become a great saint? Ask God to send you many sufferings. The flame of Divine Love never rises higher than when fed with the wood of the Cross, which
- [I *LOVE* Catholic guilt. Here's why.](https://www.snoringscholar.com/i-love-catholic-guilt-heres-why/) - Remember how I shared a quote on guilt a week or so ago from my Lenten reading? Well, here's the full column it inspired from me... * Why I'm Glad for My Catholic Guilt Every time I hear someone complain about "Catholic guilt," I want to throw something. I stumble and stutter, trying to explain
- [The Power of Tears at Catholic Exchange](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-power-of-tears-at-catholic-exchange/) - A nun, a prayer, and a new way to pray. It's not a new story, not really. It is, though, one I love to tell, and I'm telling it over at Catholic Exchange today: Our Lady of Tears presents us with an image of the Blessed Mother, and an opportunity to transform our own tears into prayer.
- [Recent Book Club Reads](https://www.snoringscholar.com/recent-book-club-reads/) - After years of waiting and wishing for someone to start a book club near me, I decided, sometime last summer, that the task was mine. So I sent an email, inviting a few friends to join me for a discussion of one of my favorite novels, Mr. Blue. It's evolved into a few more ladies, and
- [Snapshots of my life of late](https://www.snoringscholar.com/snapshots-of-my-life-of-late/) - Because I HAVE to blog every day, you know. (Does this add to my traffic? Does. not. matter. I have bigger motivations.) And this is all I have for ya, so enjoy:
- [All Sisters Are NOT Nuns](https://www.snoringscholar.com/all-sisters-are-not-nuns/) - There I was, in front of 2000 women, all but squeeing about nuns as I introduced them. I stepped away, smiling and thoroughly enjoying myself, eager to hear what they had to say about living the virtues through the lens of Mary. Except, as I found out when I sat down to hear them speak
- [Refuse to Do Nothing [with updated sites]](https://www.snoringscholar.com/refuse-to-do-nothing/) - "Hey, wanna watch a movie?" I'll be honest: I almost didn't agree to it. In some ways, I wished for at least a week afterward that I hadn't. But when my husband and I talk in the evenings, and when I'm actually awake enough to watch something and want to watch something (I default to preferring
- [See you at the conference! #CCWC2013](https://www.snoringscholar.com/see-you-at-the-conference-ccwc2013/) - Today is the height of my crazy this week as I prepare for an entire Saturday with 1600 women here in my hometown diocese at the Columbus Catholic Women's Conference. I'll be tweeting just as much as I can at the Columbus Catholic Women's Conference using the hashtag #CCWC2013 (it's not case-sensitive). Can't make it? No
- [Enjoying the Unexpected {Mom to Mom}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/enjoying-the-unexpected-mom-to-mom/) - By Karee Santos My sixth child, Elisa-Maria, gets special treatment. She is the first two-year-old I have ever parented without also parenting a newborn at the same time. I'm finding it to be a surprisingly enjoyable experience. Not being chronically sleep-deprived or prohibited from ingesting caffeine has definitely made Mama happy. Everything Elisa-Maria does just seems so cute.
- [On not allowing guilt to fester](https://www.snoringscholar.com/on-not-allowing-guilt-to-fester/) - This struck me from my morning reading of Jesus of Nazareth, and I thought I'd share it here. The point is this: guilt must not be allowed to fester in the silence of the soul, poisoning it from within. It needs to be confessed. Through confession, we bring it into the light, we place it within
- [Mary and the Passion](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-and-the-passion/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Recently, one of my oldest friends asked me for some insight on the Virgin Mary and the Passion. She's not Catholic, but she reads my blog anyway (like I said, one of my oldest friends). She had an "assignment" at her church, and she was preparing a talk considering Mary's
- [A Salute to Introverts (including the one within)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-salute-to-introverts-including-the-one-within/) - I've been fascinated with things related to personality for years. Back in my undergrad days, when I thought I would be an ag teacher someday, I studied up on learning styles. That involved a brush with Myers-Briggs and Keisey-Bates. I've been addicted ever since. On the one hand, it has given me a lens to
- [A Book That Won My Heart: Love & Salt](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-book-that-won-my-heart-love-salt/) - We all need a friend. It's trite, but it's true. To have a friend who leads you closer to God is nothing short of a gift. I have one such friend. After reading Love & Salt: A Spiritual Friendship Shared in Letters, I realized that, though I'm a writer, I don't write this dear friend
- [Just how are zombies Catholic? [updated]](https://www.snoringscholar.com/just-how-are-zombies-catholic/) - {{Be sure to see the update at the end!}} Allow me to introduce you to something awesome in Catholic writing: the the man behind Labora Editions. Ryan Charles Trusell caught my attention after everyone started raving about his Ora et Labora et Zombies after the Catholic New Media Conference in Dallas last summer. I can’t resist a good
- [Dear Friend: A Letter about Miscarriage {Mom to Mom}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/dear-friend-a-letter-about-miscarriage-mom-to-mom/) - By Maria Johnson Dear Sarah, You asked me to share my experience with miscarriage, and I have to admit that I balked for a moment. It’s because I feared revealing the raw honesty of my answer. Because I am a woman, I revisit the horror of the experience every month, sometimes as a phantom memory,
- [8 Things I Try Not to Say to My Kids {Mom to Mom}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/8-things-i-try-not-to-say-to-my-kids-mom-to-mom/) - By Katharine Grubb Moms, we have a powerful weapon at our disposal: our words. We all know the painful things that were said to us as children, some even by our parents. We all know that words can leave a permanent, painful reminder of how we have failed or how hard life is. I’m not
- [A Mom's Thought Life {Mom to Mom}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-moms-thought-life-mom-to-mom/) - In today's guest post, Jenny shares how she was awakened to the need to be mindful of what goes into her mind. It's a lesson I've learned, too. What do you need to replace with Scripture in your life? Where is there room for pruning and improvement in what you allow "in"? How can you
- [Off the Pedestal, into My Heart](https://www.snoringscholar.com/off-the-pedestal-into-my-heart/) - A Mary Moment Monday post So often, she's there up there. Above me in so many ways: she seems to have it all together, her clothes look nice, and doggone it, she's smiling peacefully. Why can't I be like HER? Her life is surely charmed, because the toddler she holds is behaving, and in church no less.
- [What It Means When I Give a Book 5 Stars](https://www.snoringscholar.com/what-it-means-when-i-give-a-book-5-stars/) - Not so long ago, someone questioned how many stars I gave a book on Amazon. "You said you enjoyed it. Why did you give it anything besides 5 stars?" I've been noodling that for quite a while, and, to be honest, I had trouble with ranking books when I first joined Goodreads. I thought I
- [Drama, Excitement, History: All That and More in Flight of the Earls](https://www.snoringscholar.com/drama-excitement-history-all-that-and-more-in-flight-of-the-earls/) - Drama. Intrigue. Famine. Flight of the Earls, which is the first in a trilogy by Emmy and Telly award-winning writer and producer Michael K. Reynolds. There are pretty women and poverty-stricken beggars, multiple trans-atlantic voyages and enough action and character development to have kept me up reading later than I intended and thinking about where things
- [What's your favorite Catholic book?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/whats-your-favorite-catholic-book/) - About.com is once again hosting their Catholicism Reader's Choice awards. Every year, the About Readers' Choice Awards showcase the best products, people, organizations, and services in multiple categories, from technology to hobbies to parenting to religion. The readers of About.com make the nominations; each About.com Guide chooses the finalists (up to five in each category) from among
- [Mary in the Unexpected](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-in-the-unexpected/) - A Mary Moment Monday post She's there, though I don't expect to find her. A pile of poop in the corner. A stumble over laundry baskets. A surge of anger. The silence of early morning. The brilliance of the sunset. The soft hair that brushes my face. I find her in more and more places,
- [My Ave Maria Playlist](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-ave-maria-playlist/) - I mentioned on Twitter earlier this week that sometimes, only my Ave Maria playlist can make things better for me. I was surprised to have a loud clamor for the contents of that playlist. Really? You mean I'm not the only Mary geek out there? And I'm not the only one who loves the Ave
- [Does a new year have to mean a new you?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/does-a-new-year-have-to-mean-a-new-you/) - At the beginning of January, I kept coming across a phrase that bothered me. "New year, new you!" It seemed to be everywhere: on my favorite blogs, on websites, and even on the radio. But how can a new year mean a new me? I know myself well enough to know it takes more than the
- [Screwtape's Handbook: A Book I Highly Recommend](https://www.snoringscholar.com/screwtapes-handbook-a-book-i-highly-recommend/) - I first read C.S. Lewis's The Screwtape Letters back in 2006, and I loved it. Not long after that first trip through the book, I led a summer book study with a group of women in my parish. The first time I read Screwtape, it was audio. The voice of the narrator was perfect in all the
- [Is the who at war with the why? [updated]](https://www.snoringscholar.com/is-the-who-at-war-with-the-why/) - I have some very definite and clearly defined thoughts on marriage. And yet, I have never written much about it. For one thing, I've been married less than a decade. For another, well, I just haven't felt like marriage was a topic I needed to tackle. Enter the Patheos Book Club and The Sacred Search: What if
- [A Book You NEED to Read: Cravings](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-book-you-need-to-read-cravings/) - I thought, as I picked up my copy of Cravings: A Catholic Wrestles with Food, Self-Image, and God, by Mary DeTurris Poust, that it would be a pleasant read (the author is an impeccable writer) that I would then pass along to a few people (which I will) and then move on. After all, I do
- [Angela and Patria (Reviews I've Been Meaning to Do)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/angela-and-patria-reviews-ive-been-meaning-to-do/) - I realized, as I was preparing my post today for Book Notes at CatholicMom.com (link won't work until noon Eastern, 9 a.m. Pacific), that there are a few books I have not reviewed properly. So here you go... Angela’s Song by AnnMarie Creedon Great story. Real characters. Good writing. This book was, in some ways,
- [What advice do YOU have?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/what-advice-do-you-have/) - Instead of reflecting on today (I did that last year, and the year before TWICE, so have fun if you want birthday reflections), I thought I'd turn to you, the silent audience of my blog. Today is my 36th birthday. I'm not feeling old or, really, anything other than a jumble of considering what I
- [The Ulna](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-ulna/) - The ulna. It sounds like something snuck in your toddler’s nose, doesn’t it? Or maybe a kind of dessert you don’t really want to try after all. It turns out, though, that the ulna is a bone in your forearm, on the closest-to-the-floor side if you’re typing at the computer. It’s a bone that is
- [It's Not About Me](https://www.snoringscholar.com/its-not-about-me/) - Today, I celebrate my 35th birthday. There are at least two things I can guarantee about today. First, I will get at least one phone call with singing from distant family. After their serenade, we'll all laugh, they'll ask how I am, and we'll hang up. Second, my daughters are going to enjoy this afternoon.
- [On Thirty and Learning the Hard Way](https://www.snoringscholar.com/on-thirty-and-learning-the-hard-way/) - Turning 30 was monumental for me, but not as I expected it to be. I can say that my thirtieth birthday was the one I’ll always remember. One year ago, at 3 AM, my foot slipped on our stairs as I was carrying my two-year-old. She came away with a tiny bruise. I came away
- [Maybe Birthdays Aren't About Me](https://www.snoringscholar.com/maybe-birthdays-arent-about-me/) - That's what came to mind after further reflection. Maybe the whole birthday thing isn't about me at all. I don't often post twice in one day anymore, but today I'm breaking that "rule" to share a thought that a wise family member thoughtfully shared with me today, after reading my earlier post about how I
- [A Novel I Enjoyed: Terrapin](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-novel-i-enjoyed-terrapin/) - You know what I love more than almost anything? A good story. When that story is packaged between two covers and called a book, even better. (Yeah, it's okay on my Kindle too. I'll give you that. The covers can be metaphorical.) I love novels. In fact, I have a writing friend who sent me
- [Snuggling in for the winter](https://www.snoringscholar.com/snuggling-in-for-the-winter/) - As I write this, we're still in the midst of Christmas fun, but I know what's going to happen. We'll clean up the decorations on or slightly before Epiphany. We'll put the new stuff away and maybe (if I'm lucky) sort through some of the old stuff. And then the snow on the ground outside
- [A Bit of Daybooking](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-bit-of-daybooking/) - Outside my window: It's dark, because it's night. Waaaaay past my bedtime, in fact. Usually I have a "no computer" rule after dinner, but that's been sliding in the last few months and today's been full. I just finished this great book and I can't wind down just yet, so here I am. Around the
- [Eight Years Ago](https://www.snoringscholar.com/eight-years-ago/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I was pregnant to bursting and worried. In fact, I was battling worry in a way I can't really express without tears in my eyes. The midwife wanted another ultrasound. There hadn't been movement in a while and she just wanted to make sure. We were scared. My husband's been
- [A Resource for Aging Faithfully](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-resource-for-aging-faithfully/) - A few months ago, as my new pregnancy companion book was launching, my mother-in-law approached me and made a request she's never made of me. She asked me to write a book. It's hard entering the second half of life, she explained. Her kids are all adults, and some of her grandkids have started having
- [Merry Christmas!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/merry-christmas-2/) - From our family to yours: card from Shutterfly
- [7 Gift Ideas for the Time-Challenged](https://www.snoringscholar.com/7-gift-ideas-for-the-time-challenged/) - I wasn't going to do a post today, but as it turns out, it's cold and windy and I want to hunker down with my blog and some coffee, a la "the good old days of blogging." So, here we go, gift ideas for people who may or may not be like some people I
- [Dippin into Deadly](https://www.snoringscholar.com/dippin-into-deadly/) - I first noticed the seven deadly sins back in 2008 or so. And then, last year during my fifth-grade religious education class, one of the boys raised his hand and asked me what the seven deadly sins were. I did what any teacher worth her salt would do: I assigned it as "trivia" (which is
- [Unite in Prayer](https://www.snoringscholar.com/unite-in-prayer/) - Following Christine's lead and inviting you to join in prayer at 3 p.m. (or whenever you can) for the victims and families in Connecticut and for our country. I suggest a Divine Mercy Chaplet, but don't be constrained by that...and don't let that be the only prayer you pray for this travesty.
- [7 that didn't make it](https://www.snoringscholar.com/7-that-didnt-make-it/) - Scuse me. Gotta just say this... Don't miss yesterday's Advent wreath link-up, which I think inspired me all the way to next year. At some point yesterday, I realized that THERE ARE ONLY A FEW DAYS LEFT TO ORDER THE FAMILY CALENDARS. It's become a tradition every year, one that I can't even pretend that
- [A Slim Volume with a Lot to Say](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-slim-volume-with-a-lot-to-say/) - I'll be honest: I probably wouldn't have picked up Catholic Spiritual Practices: A Treasury of Old and New, edited by Colleen M. Griffith and Thomas H. Groome, if not for the Patheos Book Club. That said, I'm glad it came my way. This book gave me some ideas for enhancing my own prayer life and could
- [Rooted in Love](https://www.snoringscholar.com/rooted-in-love/) - My first exposure to Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle was when I was pregnant with my second child. She had found my blog and asked me to review a book of hers. When she found out I was pregnant, she sent me a delightful package that had in it, among other things, a copy of her lovely
- [A Book I Loved: Falling for Your Madness](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-book-i-loved-falling-for-your-madness/) - I have a soft spot for a good story. And when I've read previous work by the author and know them to be clever, witty, and humorous? Consider me smitten. In fact, smitten is a pretty good way to describe how I feel about this book: It's the debut release by author Katharine Grubb: Falling for
- [Eat Healthy for a Happy Future](https://www.snoringscholar.com/eat-healthy-for-a-happy-future/) - By Mark Victor Hansen The adult and child population of America faces many health problems today. One-third of the children are pre-diabetic and a large part of the population is obese. Exhaustion and fatigue is also a common problem and complaint. The cause of these problems is that kids and adults are too dependent on
- [Along the Twitterview-way with Randy Hain ](https://www.snoringscholar.com/along-the-twitterview-way-with-randy-hain/) - What do early mornings, writing, and my blog have in common? This week, Randy Hain, the man who's up before some people are in bed, dad to two boys, author of two books, co-founder and senior editor at Integrated Catholic Life, managing partner at Bell Oaks Executive Search, founder of conferences, speaker, presenter, and inventor of time
- [A Handbook for the Journey: Along the Way by Randy Hain](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-handbook-for-the-journey-along-the-way-by-randy-hain/) - Have you read the story of Martha and Mary lately? It's in Luke 10:38-42. So often, I relate with Martha. She's juggling a thousand things, and, quite frankly, getting a little irritated with that sister of hers who has the nerve to just plop down and lounge. The other night, though, I caught myself being
- [Mary in the Chaos](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-in-the-chaos/) - A Mary Moment Monday post It's been a wee bit crazy for the last six weeks or so. I've found myself using "Sorry, I'm busy" in contexts that have me shaking my head at myself. Someone I love and admire recently pointed out to me that I will always be busy. Good point. This last
- [Are you still thinking saints? I am!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/are-you-still-thinking-saints-i-am/) - We salute the saints on November 1, but that doesn't have to be the end of our involvement with them. Try one of these ideas to keep your November saint-filled. Ah, November. It's almost the season, and I can already feel myself getting the pre-game jitters. Soon I will be shopping and buying and planning
- [Why Veteran's Day Makes Me Think of Sheep](https://www.snoringscholar.com/why-veterans-day-makes-me-think-of-sheep/) - This is from the 2009 archives, and since I thought of it just the other day, I thought I'd share it here again. A Mary Moment Monday post I was making my morning cup of tea (the cup I make after I decide that, in fact, a third carafe of coffee will be too much),
- [Supporting Motherhood: Webinar](https://www.snoringscholar.com/supporting-motherhood-webinar/) - A while back, I presented this webinar on supporting motherhood within your parish to a group of parish leaders. In case it's useful to you, I thought I would share it here. As a parish employee and avid volunteer myself (and a mom!), I'd love to hear your ideas. How do you support motherhood in your
- [Becoming "that" mom](https://www.snoringscholar.com/becoming-that-mom/) - I was minding my own business, really, talking to a mom friend and pushing my toddler on the swings. I didn’t ask the little boy to come up to me. I didn’t even smile his way. But he did come up to me. He wasn’t shy at all, and he even smiled as he asked
- [What's so Catholic about zombie exterminators?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/whats-so-catholic-about-zombie-exterminators/) - By Karina Fabian A Catholic writer writes I Left My Brains in San Francisco? What’s so Catholic about zombie exterminators? Short answer: Nothing, and that’s okay. I am indeed a Catholic writer. I was born and raised in the Faith, and as an adult, made the conscious decision to follow it for the rest of
- [It Ain't Over](https://www.snoringscholar.com/it-aint-over/) - A Mary Moment Monday post The month of the rosary, that is. Here at the end of this month in honor of the rosary, I find that my best intentions are left dangling. Yeah, I’ve said my daily rosary, which is a big something, but have I fostered better devotion to it? Have I stretched
- [Last Chance for Nook Tablet](https://www.snoringscholar.com/last-chance-for-nook-tablet/) - Though the blog tour is over, we're still accepting entries for the Nook tablet through tomorrow. So be sure to get on over and enter! (You can enter once each day, so if you're reading this on Saturday, that's two entries!) If you want to win a copy of my new book, don't forget to
- [Crowning Mary {Blog Tour, Day 20}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/crowning-mary-blog-tour-day-20/) - Is it just me, or are there many ways you can pull a play on words with so many of the mysteries of the rosary? On the one hand, at any given time, I could probably "crown" someone... ...and then here's this lovely little mystery, which can only make me think of princesses as my
- [More than Just Zombies](https://www.snoringscholar.com/more-than-just-zombies/) - Lately, I've caught myself reading books with zombies in them. I don't really like horror. I read enough of it in my youth to stock me up in nightmares for years to come. But zombie books are...well, I guess they're horror. Right? Even so, I can't help but recommend I Left My Brains in San Francisco, the
- [Reflecting on the Assumption {Blog Tour, Day 19}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/reflecting-on-the-assumption-blog-tour-day-19/) - We're reflection on the Assumption of Mary today as the penultimate stop on the rosary blog tour for my new book. Hope you can stop by and visit Dorian at Scrutinies and pray along with us! And while you're cruising around, don't forget these giveaway opportunities: Enter to win a Nook tablet My October contest
- [Grab a Cuppa with Karen and the Holy Spirit {Blog Tour, Day 18}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/grab-a-cuppa-with-karen-and-the-holy-spirit-blog-tour-day-18/) - I often imagine heaven as an opportunity to sit down and have a leisurely cup of coffee with my favorite people. Among the people on my list is Karen Edmisten, today's rosary blog tour host. Karen is not only delightful and faith-filled, she's an author with a devotion to the rosary (if her book isn't
- [A Drink and a Mystery {Blog Tour, Day 17}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-drink-and-a-mystery-blog-tour-day-17/) - It might seem counter-intuitive to ask a single, non-pregnant woman to be my host for the blog tour of A Catholic Mother's Companion to Pregnancy: Walking with Mary from Conception to Baptism. Once upon a time, I might have agreed with you. And then, somehow, amazingly, I became a mom. I still consider myself an unlikely
- [Praying the Resurrection {Blog Tour, Day 16}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/praying-the-resurrection-blog-tour-day-16/) - Today we begin our final lap around the rosary for this blog tour. As we consider the Resurrection today at the Columbus Catholic Women's Conference blog, think about the joy of the first Easter. I so often forget about that and let the Resurrection become mundane and expected. But it's not. Not at all. *
- [This Little Light and the Crucifixion {Blog Tour, Day 15}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/this-little-light-and-the-crucifixion-blog-tour-day-15/) - Is your cross feeling heavy? Are the burdens of life weighing on you? Do you need a break? Consider this your invitation to pause and join us for the fifth sorrowful mystery, hosted by the lovely and hilarious Michelle at This Little Light. * * * Michelle's also kind enough to include a review of
- [Carrying the Cross {Blog Tour, Day 14}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/carrying-the-cross-blog-tour-day-14/) - Today's mystery It's Day 14 of my book's blog tour. It's flying by...or is it just me? Today we're praying a mystery of the rosary that I think we all relate with in some, if only in the phrases we use. Or is it just me who refers to my everyday complaints as "crosses"? The
- [Finding God in My Golf Game](https://www.snoringscholar.com/finding-god-in-my-golf-game/) - A few years ago, my husband discovered golf. I was mildly amused, but not really interested. I had books to read, after all. But then he took me along. I just walked the first nine holes with him, but it made a significant dent in my disinterest. It didn’t seem boring when I was in
- [Crowning with Thorns at Jen's Place {Blog Tour, Day 13}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/crowning-with-thorns-at-jens-place-blog-tour-day-13/) - I'm feeling a little punchy today, and there's a temptation to do a play on words with this one...but I'm going to save the cleverness for a guest post later today and just give you the facts. Today's host on the blog tour is none other than Jen Steed from Happy Little Homemaker. Jen shares
- [An Interview and a Scourging {Blog Tour, Day 12}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/an-interview-and-a-scourging-blog-tour-day-12/) - But the interview is not the scourging, I assure you. Barb at Franciscan Mom, who's been following my writing since way back, was gracious enough to host the blog tour today. She's hosting it with style, including an interview in which she pulled my own Twitterview tactics on me--I had to answer in 140 characters
- [The Kennedy Adventures Hosts the Agony in the Garden {Blog Tour, Day 11}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-kennedy-adventures-hosts-the-agony-in-the-garden-blog-tour-day-11/) - I could use a nap. And why, you ask, does that occur to me when I'm introducing the Agony in the Garden? Well, if you go to The Kennedy Adventures, you'll find out. We're up to the Sorrowful Mysteries now, which means we're halfway through our rosary together. * * * October 16 has special
- [Sharing the Eucharist with Friends {Blog Tour, Day 10}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/sharing-the-eucharist-with-friends-blog-tour-day-10/) - You know what I've loved most about Catholic blogging? The friends I've made. These are not virtual friends, fake or pretend or theoretical. Just ask my husband. These are real-life friends. Among the first of the Catholic blog friends I made was Michelle Reitemeyer from Rosetta Stone, our hostess today on the book's blog tour.
- [Ellen Gable Hrkach Hosts the Transfiguration {Blog Tour, Day 9}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/ellen-gable-hrkach-hosts-the-transfiguration-blog-tour-day-9/) - Today we're praying the Transfiguration together as our continuation of the blog tour for my new book, A Catholic Mother's Companion to Pregnancy: Walking with Mary from Conception to Baptism. Join us at Plot Line and Sinker with Ellen Gable Hrkach, and have yourself a blessed Sunday!
- [Shoved to Them and the Proclamation {Blog Tour, Day 8}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/shoved-to-them-and-the-proclamation-blog-tour-day-8/) - Eight days and eight mysteries of the rosary. What a way for time to fly! Today, our hostess with the mostest is Rebecca Frech, who became an instantly dear friend of mine during my trip to Dallas at the end of August. She sat in on my Blogging 101 class and acted as though I
- [The Practicing Catholic Hosts the Wedding Feast {Blog Tour, Day 7}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-practicing-catholic-hosts-the-wedding-feast-blog-tour-day-7/) - There's nothing like a good party, wouldn't you agree? What I consider a good party has changed over the years--you might say my tastes have matured (or perhaps I've become more childlike...hard telling). Today is the very best kind of party: one that celebrates a book, is continuing through the month, and includes a dear
- [A Book for All of Us: Faith at Work](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-book-for-all-of-us-faith-at-work/) - A book I've been looking for Over a year ago, I started searching for Catholic business resources, specifically books. I found seven, but I felt like there was something missing. Something current, for one thing. My husband suggested I pitch an idea or two to write such a book. I shook my head and gave
- [Baptism at Mommy Marginalia {Blog Tour, Day 6}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/baptism-at-mommy-marginalia-blog-tour-day-6/) - For some reason, I had it in my mind that we were reflecting on the Resurrection today. So this morning, as I was reading the blog tour post over at Mommy Marginalia, I was a little...surprised. Now, mind you, I set the tour schedule. I am the one who decided the order of things. And I
- [A Few Characters with Karina Fabian](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-few-characters-with-karina-fabian/) - Allow me to interrupt all this talk of my new book and the rosary. Not that I don't like those things, mind you, but I need a moment to go into Fangirl Mode. KARINA FABIAN HAS A NEW BOOK PUBLISHED! Remember how I loved her first Neeta Lyffe novel? Well, I loved this new one, Neeta
- [Finding Jesus at Random Acts of Momness {Blog Tour, Day 5}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/finding-jesus-at-random-acts-of-momness-blog-tour-day-5/) - I first "met" Ginny Moyer when I reviewed her book, Mary and Me: Catholic Women Reflect on the Mother of God back in 2008. Over the years, I've enjoyed her blogging and getting to know her better. So today, it's a special kind of pleasure to share my own sort of Mary experience with her: praying the
- [The Presentation at Happy Catholic {Blog Tour, Day 4}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-presentation-at-happy-catholic-blog-tour-day-4/) - Today, we're praying the fourth joyful mystery, the Presentation, over at one of my favorite places on the web, Happy Catholic. Julie's was one of the first blogs I ever read, and I credit her with my own She says some nice things about my book, which are made more special to me because I
- [The Nativity with Jen Fitz {Blog Tour, Day 3}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-nativity-with-jen-fitz-blog-tour-day-3/) - You know what I'm loving about this blog tour? Stopping at some of my favorite places on the internet and sharing my favorite prayer there. In case you are just popping in from the weekend, the blog tour for my new book, A Catholic Mother's Companion to Pregnancy: Walking with Mary from Conception to Baptism, kicked
- [Praying the Visitation with Blogging Sisters {Blog Tour, Day 2}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/praying-the-visitation-with-blogging-sisters-blog-tour-day-2/) - You know what I love? A good hearty squee. Today, my favorite blogging sisters are joining me in a squee-fest as we celebrate the launch of A Catholic Mother's Companion to Pregnancy: Walking with Mary from Conception to Baptism. You know what I'd like to encourage you to do today? Go to a bookstore. Oh, wait. It's Sunday.
- [The Anchoress and the Annunciation {Blog Tour, Day 1}](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-anchoress-and-the-annunciation-blog-tour-day-1/) - Are you as excited as I am? It's the first day of the rosary book tour for my new book, and today we're meditating on the Annunciation with none other than The Anchoress herself, Elizabeth Scalia. Find my reflection on the Annunciation, some words by Elizabeth, and don't forget to enter to win that awesome
- [The Good Pope: A Book Review](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-good-pope-a-book-review/) - I picked up The Good Pope: The Making of a Saint and the Remaking of the Church, by Greg Tobin, because it looked interesting. But I also had some trepidation. A friend whose opinion I really respect put it down after a few chapters for reasons that aren't mine to share. Then the email about the
- [My Favorite Four Mary Books](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-favorite-four-mary-books/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Late last week, someone emailed me and asked me a question I can't resist sharing: Do you have a favourite Mary book that if your good friend just discovered Mary said to you I want to learn more and you would just HAVE to share it with her? In fact,
- [A Smile and the Rosary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-smile-and-the-rosary/) - I neglected to share a link for the latest Just for Moms over at Catholic Family Fun: A smile seems like such a simple thing: why do I have to work so hard to make it a habit? September always feels like the start of the year for me. Maybe it's all the sharpened pencils.
- [Glorious Ruin: A Book on Suffering That Spoke to Me](https://www.snoringscholar.com/glorious-ruin-a-book-on-suffering-that-spoke-to-me/) - There have been many times I have read classic books about faith--those by C.S. Lewis, G.K. Chesterton--and I have hesitated. When I read Orthodoxy, for example, I was struck at all the reasons it was a classic: it was well-written, it spoke to my heart, it was succinct and profound at the same time. It comes
- [Three Hail Marys](https://www.snoringscholar.com/three-hail-marys/) - A Mary Moment Monday post A while back, inspired by a great book I read, I set up alarms on my phone for 10 AM, 1:15 PM, and 5:30 PM. My intent was to do an examen throughout the day. What's happened is something entirely different. Often, those three alarms serve as a "here's what
- [Have you ordered YOUR copy of my new book?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/have-you-ordered-your-copy-of-my-new-book/) - I was just poking around online, as is my wont when I have tons of other things to do, and look what I found: At Barnes & Noble: At Amazon: The official release date is September 24, but it looks like not only is it shipping, but you could have it in your hot little
- [Why Am I Catholic?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/why-am-i-catholic-2/) - It’s a question that can be asked a variety of different ways: WHY am I Catholic? Why AM I Catholic? Why am I Catholic? Why am I CATHOLIC? As I sat in the middle of a downpour a while back, cheering for my team despite the rain dripping impossibly into my nose, I had this
- [Ashamed No More: A Book That Got Me Thinking](https://www.snoringscholar.com/ashamed-no-more-a-book-that-got-me-thinking/) - I don't know if I would have picked up Ashamed No More: A Pastor's Journey Through Sex Addiction if it wasn't for the fact that I'm participating in the Patheos Book Club discussion (so yes, I received a review copy). I wasn't sure I would finish it. It's a compelling topic but...I just wasn't sure how
- [Learning Persistence from Our Lady of Good Remedy](https://www.snoringscholar.com/learning-persistence-from-our-lady-of-good-remedy/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I originally wrote this back in 2009 for a series on titles of Mary that I did for Catholic Exchange. We were still living in our old farmhouse. We moved about a year ago and, though I no longer have quite the same struggle with my current landscaping, so much
- [What are you a slave to?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/what-are-you-a-slave-to/) - It's a question those of us who are involved in social media have probably asked ourselves at one point or another. What are you a slave to? It's not a nice question, but we all see it as a metaphorical sort of thing. It's a discussion point. But what if you really were a slave?
- [The Tale of the Cure for Tangly Hair Tears](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-tale-of-the-cure-for-tangly-hair-tears/) - Once upon a time, there was a little girl with tangly hair. Her mother brushed it, but it always hurt. That little girl grew up and had children of her own. Wouldn't you just know: one of her kids had tangly hair. When she discovered conditioner, she realized that with enough detangler and conditioner, the
- [Family Fun Friday: Wrap Some Fun](https://www.snoringscholar.com/family-fun-friday-wrap-some-fun/) - Welcome to the 4th edition of Family Fun Fridays! I'm so glad you could stop by! --- 1 --- If your family is anything like ours, you need some inexpensive solutions to the "what do we wrap that gift in?!" dilemma. Wrapping paper isn't soooo expensive, I guess, but it takes some work to use. Gift bags
- [An Interview with Mark Victor Hansen](https://www.snoringscholar.com/an-interview-with-mark-victor-hansen/) - Here's a sampling of a recent interview I did with Mark Victor Hansen, co-creator of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series and the new GoRichKids.com site. You can find the rest of it at CatholicMom.com, along with a special free ebook offer. What's the greatest hurdle, or hurdles, you have faced and continue to
- [Family Fun Friday: Picnic in the Backyard](https://www.snoringscholar.com/family-fun-friday-picnic-in-the-backyard/) - Welcome to the 3rd edition of Family Fun Fridays! I'm so glad you could stop by! --- 1 --- It's been an unusually hot summer. Consequently, I've been acting like I live in the South or something, with my a/c on and my kids inside. --- 2 --- Earlier this week, we had some downright pleasant
- [Family Fun Friday: Bible Drama Fun](https://www.snoringscholar.com/family-fun-friday-bible-drama-fun/) - Welcome to the 3rd edition of Family Fun Fridays! I'm so glad you could stop by! --- 1 --- I grew up reading the Picture Bible and the six-volume Picture Bible for All Ages. It was all kinds of awesome. I had this unabashed appreciation for the drama and adventure. It gave me a grounding in scripture and
- [Family Fun Friday: Water Fun](https://www.snoringscholar.com/family-fun-friday-water-fun/) - Welcome to the 2nd edition of Family Fun Fridays! Got any corn? Cuz I *do*! --- 1 --- This week, it's been corn, corn, and more corn. So family fun has to be, well, simple. And it doesn't get much more simple--or fun--than water. --- 2 --- Outside, it's very, very August. It's hot. And in
- [Mom to Mom: A New Series](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mom-to-mom-a-new-series/) - -- First, I decide that by gum, I'm going to cut back this summer. So I did. And it's a good thing I did: this has been a summer of here and there and everywhere, and I would have just failed had I not stepped back first. Then, I decide that, heaven help me, slicing
- [The newest "Just for Moms"](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-newest-just-for-moms/) - I find myself, at the mid-point of August and on the brink of school starting, exhausted. I gave up a lot of extracurricular responsibilities this summer, and it’s a good thing I did. No sooner did I settle back for a nice, relaxing summer than my seven-year-old broke her leg. Then, right after the walking
- [Dear Men, We Need YOU!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/dear-men-we-need-you/) - I grew up a bona fide Daddy’s Girl. My dad couldn’t go anywhere without a ponytailed tag-a-long. I recall vividly, one time, as his old red International truck was pulling out of the driveway, running along side yelling for him to stop. I’m sure I had told him that I didn’t want to go. And
- [Lessons of the Assumption](https://www.snoringscholar.com/lessons-of-the-assumption/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I’ve been Catholic for a number of years, but it’s taken me a while to get used to Holy Days of Obligation. They’re not ingrained in my memory the way they seem to be for other Catholics I know, and some of them are just...well, they’re unfamiliar at best and
- [Mom with a Mission: Meet Catholic Mom Erin Giddens](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mom-with-a-mission-meet-catholic-mom-erin-giddens/) - I was new to the world of parish secretarying when I met Erin Giddens. In my role as Chief Operator of All Things Related to the Parish Office, I helped her set up her oldest child's baptism and reception. Over the years, Erin and I have become pretty close friends, even to the point of
- [Do you love the rosary?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/do-you-love-the-rosary/) - If so, I'd love to hear from you! I'm pulling together guest posts for October for here on my blog, and if you're interested, take a look at my guidelines, and send me an email. Looking forward to hearing from you and reading what you have to say!
- [Five tips for family fun & Donna-Marie's review](https://www.snoringscholar.com/five-tips-for-family-fun-donna-maries-review/) - Today, in Book Tour fun... According to Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle, regarding Catholic Family Fun, I think you're going to love it. Do you have kids or know someone who does? This IS THE book for today's parent! She very kindly hosted Catholic Family Fun today as part of the Book Tour. Over at Among Women, Pat Gohn is
- [Finding Christ in the Wedding Details](https://www.snoringscholar.com/finding-christ-in-the-wedding-details/) - A guest post by Melanie Cameron Prince Charles & Duchess Catherine’s wedding is still fresh in my mind. Did y’all read the homily by the Bishop of London!? "Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire." said St Catherine of Siena whose festival day it is today. Marriage
- [Summer Vacation: Rest and Relaxation](https://www.snoringscholar.com/summer-vacation-rest-and-relaxation/) - A guest post by Kyle Sanders As a kid, summer was the most delightful time of year. I was free from school and free to rest from responsibility. I looked forward to those breaks. I couldn’t hurry the last nine weeks quick enough. High school held the same delight, but deeper. With the freedom came
- [The Daybook of Busy and Hot](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-daybook-of-busy-and-hot/) - Outside my window: The sun is just cresting the horizon. There's a gray mist on the far field and pink and yellow above the tree line. Around the house: It's quiet. But not for much longer. What I've been writing: Oh my word. This and that and what I can. I've been trying to keep
- [Family Fun Friday: Puppet Show Theater in Quick Takes](https://www.snoringscholar.com/family-fun-friday-puppet-show-theater/) - Welcome to the first edition of Family Fun Fridays! I'm so glad you could stop by! --- 1 --- It began as a box. It was just sitting around, waiting for the Recycling Fairy to take it to the garage. It could have turned into a train, a storage container, or a decorated carriage for a
- [Jeff Young reviews my "cookbook"; Kate Wicker interviews me](https://www.snoringscholar.com/jeff-young-reviews-my-cookbook-kate-wicker-interviews-me/) - It's a day where I'm hanging with the kewl kids. Guess I should host a book tour more often, eh? Jeff Young's review of Catholic Family Fun had me smiling and, truth be told, blushing. I have often wished for a “cookbook” for kids. No, not the kind that shows kids how to cook… Rather, the
- [Catholic Family Fun: Now in MY Hands!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/catholic-family-fun-now-in-my-hands/) - Look what was waiting at the post office yesterday: We're a weeeee bit excited. Both girls asked for their own copies, and seven-year-old expressed her delight and approval that one of the activities is horseback riding. I'd be failing if I didn't also remind you: Have you entered to win a Snoring Scholar SurPrize Pack
- [A local look at Catholic Family Fun](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-local-look-at-catholic-family-fun/) - I'm a big fan of our local pharmacy. The owners are parishioners at our church, and I've gotten to know them through my work in the parish office and in the community. They're great people, and the wife, Robin, is a writer. She's also an animal lover, and in her review of Catholic Family Fun on
- [A New Catholic Family Fun Activity & the Riparian Viewpoint](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-new-catholic-family-fun-activity-the-riparian-viewpoint/) - Something New One of the promises I made recently was that I would be writing new activities for the Catholic Family Fun website. I said Yes before I had ANY IDEA what I would write. You know, because all the good ideas are already used, as in PUBLISHED IN THE BOOK. Nevertheless, I did post an
- [Growing into the domestic church you're called to](https://www.snoringscholar.com/growing-into-the-domestic-church-youre-called-to/) - Today, Lisa Schmidt from the Practicing Catholic is sharing her review of Catholic Family Fun as part of the Book Tour. Here's a sample: So when Sarah A. Reinhard’s book Catholic Family Fun: A Guide for the Adventurous, Overwhelmed, Creative, or Clueless arrived in the mail, I let out a big ol’ sigh of relief. With summer right
- [A Few Questions, a Few Answers at Of Sound Mind & Spirit](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-few-questions-a-few-answers-at-of-sound-mind-spirit/) - Over at Of Sound Mind and Spirit, I'm answering a few questions (in 140 characters or less, I'd like to add) about Catholic Family Fun, my writing process, my playlists, and yes, my favorite activity from the book. Stop on over!
- [Get CFF at B&N; read an interesting interview](https://www.snoringscholar.com/get-cff-at-b-read-an-interesting-interview/) - UPDATE: My cover's now posted at B&N, but the book appears to not be for sale any longer. No idea why. I'll keep you posted. I've been checking in at Barnes & Noble to see if/when they would carry Catholic Family Fun, and lo! It is there! (Don't be fooled by the fact that the cover
- ["A book I needed"](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-book-i-needed/) - Today's stop on the Catholic Family Fun Book Tour is a raw and honest account of one mom's reaction to my book. Sherry Antonetti and I have known each other for quite a while virtually, and when she asked to be a part of the tour, I was thrilled. She's a mom of many, a
- [When "Come Play with Me!" Sounds Impossible](https://www.snoringscholar.com/when-come-play-with-me-sounds-impossible/) - Today, the Catholic Family Fun Book Tour stopped at Mommy Marginalia, where I was humbled and delighted. "Mommy, come play me!" This is the call of my two-year-old, as he makes a beeline for the backyard the minute we walk in the door. I am still dressed from work. Dinner is not on the table.
- [Stopping at Amazing Catechists with CFF](https://www.snoringscholar.com/stopping-at-amazing-catechists-with-cff/) - Today, Ellen Gable Hrkach reviews Catholic Family Fun at Amazing Catechists. Ellen reminds all of us (me included) why the whole concept of family fun is so important: Amidst the busyness of family life with small children, some parents can miss the numerous opportunities to simply have fun with your kids. These are the memories your
- [How Babies Inspire Me (though I'm NOT a Baby Person)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/how-babies-inspire-me-though-im-not-a-baby-person/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I'm NOT a Baby Person. And there are times--like when someone dear to me is holding a brand-new bundle of joy--when I feel guilt about this. Just the other night, as I was NOT holding the newest nephew (though I enjoy his very existence immensely), I wondered if I'm broken.
- [High Marks for Catholic Family Fun](https://www.snoringscholar.com/high-marks-for-catholic-family-fun/) - Over at Bad Martha, Jackie Vick is reviewing Catholic Family Fun as part of the Book Tour. She says, This book provides perfect opportunities to grow closer as a family while incorporating the most important lessons your children will ever need in life. She says more than that, but you'll have to go visit her to
- [CFF now available from Aquinas & More](https://www.snoringscholar.com/cff-now-available-from-aquinas-more/) - I've been a fan of Aquinas & More Catholic Goods for many years. For one thing, they're family-owned. For another, I've actually met Ian (one of the owners). For yet another, they have a great reviewer program. Do you need more reasons? How about their no-China policy and the ability to register in different ways
- [Recommended for ANY family, says Jen Steed](https://www.snoringscholar.com/recommended-for-any-family-says-jen-steed/) - Today's Book Tour stop is with Jen Steed from Happy Little Homemaker. I was touched by the fact that Jen seems to be a mom who, like me, is pretty clueless about little kids. Her review of Catholic Family Fun is honest and I had to share this little part: I can’t tell you my favorite
- [What I want my kids to remember about growing up Catholic](https://www.snoringscholar.com/what-i-want-my-kids-to-remember-about-growing-up-catholic/) - One of the best parts of this Book Tour is the chance to interact with some of my favorite people. Yesterday, Karina Fabian invited me to share one thing I want my kids to remember about growing up Catholic, which had me stumped for quite a while, let me tell you. She also shared one of her
- [Try and Try Again and a Review](https://www.snoringscholar.com/try-and-try-again-and-a-review/) - I fail. A lot. Especially when the word “family” is combined with the word “fun.” Add “Catholic” to the front and you not only have a great book but also a bit of a nightmare for me. So how is it that I came to not only author a book (with a subtitle that explains
- [On the Tour Today](https://www.snoringscholar.com/on-the-tour-today/) - Today, on the Book Tour circuit: I think my “fun quotient” just rose a few points. And what’s even cooler is that this is just the beginning. I have several more ideas to try, all thanks to Sarah’s great little book. That's from Ginny at Random Acts of Momness, and her "Ay, carumba" is now
- [Look What's on Kindle!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/look-whats-on-kindle/) - I couldn't resist sharing... If you're interested in getting a copy of Catholic Family Fun: A Guide for the Adventurous, Overwhelmed, Creative, or Clueless on Kindle, you're in luck!
- [The Franciscan Mom Approves](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-franciscan-mom-approves/) - I've been following Barb at Franciscan Mom (formerly SFO Mom) since my early days of blogging. And I believe she's been reading my stuff about that long, too. So when she offered to be part of the Book Tour, I had a warm fuzzy moment. And then, then she referenced something in her review that made
- [Even *I* can do a May altar!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/even-i-can-do-a-may-altar/) - Over at the Catholic Family Fun website, I have a new activity to share. It's so easy, even *I* have done it. For the first time ever. It's a May altar! Yes, I know. With my devotion to Mary, you'd think this would be something I've done many times. With my love of flowers, you'd
- [Let the fun continue - another chance to win](https://www.snoringscholar.com/let-the-fun-continue-another-chance-to-win/) - If you stop over at Faith & Family Live, you'll notice that Rachel is reviewing Catholic Family Fun today. And you can win a copy! Rachel says, in part, I don’t mean to gush (I’m not getting paid to do so!), but I was just so pleasantly surprised by how handy and useful this book really
- [CFF for Two](https://www.snoringscholar.com/cff-for-two/) - Debunking the myth that Catholic Family Fun is only for families with young children is none other than my dear friend Maria Johnson, she of the empty nest and the nieces and nephews. With my youngest finishing his second year of college, I wondered, as I was reading the book, if any of this was
- [This just in: my book is "wicked awesome" and I have "unique humor"](https://www.snoringscholar.com/this-just-in-my-book-is-wicked-awesome-and-i-have-unique-humor/) - The first stop on the Book Tour train today: Michelle at This Little Light is part of the Book Tour today, and she says my book is wicked awesome. She even made a graphic. Enjoy it with me, wouldja? Aside from winning my heart with the cool graphic, Michelle also points out a challenge I think
- [We need moments of joy and laughter](https://www.snoringscholar.com/we-need-moments-of-joy-and-laughter/) - So says Patrice Fagnant-MacArthur in her review at Catholic Lane: Moments of joy and laughter can create lasting memories for both you and your children. Laughter can reduce tension and stress which can help make the challenge of parenting a little bit easier. But, in the midst of our busy lives, where should we begin?
- [Kevin Lowry Reviews CFF](https://www.snoringscholar.com/kevin-lowry-reviews-cff/) - I didn't remember, when I posted my "twitter-view" with Kevin Lowry earlier today, that he was reviewing Catholic Family Fun as the final stop on the Book Tour today. And what a review. He starts, Yes, I’m a husband and father of eight kids. But family fun doesn’t always come naturally – even (or perhaps especially) in
- [Turns out she HASN'T read it all...](https://www.snoringscholar.com/turns-out-she-hasnt-read-it-all/) - About 11 years ago, when I was first contemplating homeschooling my then-middle-schoolers, I began to develop a strong interest in imbuing my home with living the liturgical year. Since then I’ve read countless books on celebrating feast days, incorporating prayers into our daily lives, and generally actively reveling in our being Catholic. After 10 years,
- [Lean into God's Arms](https://www.snoringscholar.com/lean-into-gods-arms/) - How do you have fun when the world turns upside-down? To find out what I think, you'll have to read my "Just for Moms" reflection at the Catholic Family Fun website.
- [Make Fun a Habit](https://www.snoringscholar.com/make-fun-a-habit/) - This just in: The best part about Catholic Family Fun is that it's very easy to incorporate into your life. Since reading it, I have been inspired to turn off my devices and tune in to my family. From strawberry picking, making homemade pie, taking a road trip, packing a picnic and praying the rosary
- [CFF is in good company](https://www.snoringscholar.com/cff-is-in-good-company/) - In a review I just stumbled across at iObserve.org, Allan F. Wright reviews Catholic Family Fun, as well as The Catholics Next Door: Adventures in Imperfect Living (which I loved) and The Temperament God Gave Your Kids (which is on my to-read-next-week list). Talk about keeping good company! Says Mr. Wright, This book is a wonderful resource for
- [The Final Fun of Summer](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-final-fun-of-summer/) - It's August. That statement, simple as it is, could be punctuated a number of different ways for me: It's August! Read as: THANK GOODNESS! We're almost done with summer! It's August? Read as: How did THAT happen? Where did the time go? I have so much left to do!!! It's August?!? Read as: Oh no,
- [Driving Safely with Kids in Tow](https://www.snoringscholar.com/driving-safely-with-kids-in-tow/) - By Aaron Schulman For many parents, the thought of taking a road trip with their children is about as enjoyable as having a physical exam at their doctor's office. With some simple preparation however, driving long distances with children in the back seat can actually be fun. Driving the thousands of interstate highway miles can
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: AT](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-at/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "AT" By Daria Sockey At? At? I'm supposed
- [The Story of La Negrita, Our Lady of Angels](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-story-of-la-negrita-our-lady-of-angels/) - A Mary Moment Monday post See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father. Matthew 18:10 I don’t remember who it was who encouraged me to start talking to my guardian angel. It was
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: GRACE](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-grace/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "GRACE" By Kate Wicker I once was talking
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: THE](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-the/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "THE" By Mary Gildersleeve “The” … made with
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: LORD](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-lord/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "LORD" By Brandon Vogt My third grade basketball
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: IS](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-is/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "IS" By Mark Szewczak Mary, the mother-to-be of
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: WITH](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-with/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "WITH" By Nancy Brown With: Preposition 1. accompanied by;
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: THEE](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-thee/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "THEE" By Jeff Young "It ain't about me."
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: BLESSED](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-blessed/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "BLESSED" By Maria Johnson I treat myself to
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: ART](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-art/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "ART" By Fr. Jim Tucker The word is
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: THOU](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-thou/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "THOU" By Julie Davis I reel off the
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: AMONG](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-among/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "AMONG" By Jeff Miller While Mary is blessed among women,
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: WOMEN](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-women/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "WOMEN" By Jennifer Fitz I have never been
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: AND](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-and/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "AND" By Ginny Kubitz Moyer When I was
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: BLESSED](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-blessed-2/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "BLESSED" By Michelle Reitemeyer “The graces obtained from
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: IS](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-is-2/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "IS" By Christine Johnson What a daunting task,
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: THE](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-the-2/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "THE" By Melanie Betanelli “The” is a humble
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: FRUIT](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-fruit/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "FRUIT" By Pat Gohn Bite into any lush,
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: OF](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-of-2/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "OF" By Lisa M. Hendey My friend Sarah
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: THY](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-thy-2/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "THY" By Dorian Speed What's so special about
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: WOMB](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-womb/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "WOMB" By Kevin Lowry Womb. What a great
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: JESUS](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-jesus/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "JESUS" By Walt Staples In reciting the “Hail
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: HAIL](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-hail/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "HAIL" By Fr. Patrick Toner We all recognize
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: FULL](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-full/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "FULL" By Jaymie Stuart Wolfe Full. Full of
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: OF](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-of/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "OF" By Carol Ann Chybowski When Sarah first
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: A Series of Posts](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-a-series-of-posts/) - The Hail Mary has long been my "blankie prayer," the prayer I turn to no matter what. I pray it unconsciously, the way my children grab my hand without even knowing it when we're walking side-by-side. It's a comfort to me, and I'm so blessed to have it. When I don't have words for the
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: HOLY](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-holy/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "HOLY" By Karina Fabian I have a lot
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: MARY](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-mary-2/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "WORD" By Barb Szyszkiewicz How many of the
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: MOTHER](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-mother/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "MOTHER" By Michelle Buckman Mother. A multitude of emotions
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: OF](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-of-3/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "OF" By Val Bianco When I was asked
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: GOD](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-god/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "GOD" By Arwen Mosher The funny thing about
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: PRAY](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-pray/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "PRAY" By Miriel Thomas Perhaps more than any
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: FOR](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-for/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "FOR" By Lisa Mladinich If we want peace,
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: US](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-us/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "US" By Sarah Vabulas I’m a firm believer
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: SINNERS](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-sinners/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "SINNERS" By Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle “Sinners”—now there’s a
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: NOW](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-now/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "NOW" By Ellen Gable Hrkach “now” adverb 1.at
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: AND](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-and-2/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "AND" By Peggy Bowes I kneel in front
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: THE](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-the-3/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "THE" By Susie Lloyd I have agreed to
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: HOUR](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-hour/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "HOUR" By Karen Edmisten An hour. Depending on
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: OF](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-of-4/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "OF" By Shelly Kelly This wonderful series has
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: OUR](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-our/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "OUR" By Mrs. Darwin Death seems like the
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: DEATH](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-death/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "DEATH" By Paula Huston It seems that I
- [Looking Closer at the Hail Mary: AMEN](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-closer-at-the-hail-mary-amen/) - Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A reflection on the word "AMEN" By Fr. Patrick Toner “Amen” is from
- [Review: Follow You, Follow Me](https://www.snoringscholar.com/review-follow-you-follow-me/) - I'm a social media junkie, no two ways about it. I've spent the last couple of years diving into the waters and I've also learned to adopt a bit of an arms-length approach. It hasn't been easy. It has, however, been more rewarding and spiritually enriching for me than I could have imagined. I've made
- [Smoke Detector Faith](https://www.snoringscholar.com/smoke-detector-faith-2/) - Originally published on November 11, 2006. I came across it in my archives quite by accident, but it struck a chord, so I'm sharing it today, again. * * * This morning, I woke up a half-hour before I had to because of a beep. It was an insistent kind of noise, and it didn’t
- [An Old Farmhouse and Our Lady of Counsel](https://www.snoringscholar.com/an-old-farmhouse-and-our-lady-of-counsel/) - This was originally published at Catholic Exchange in 2009. We no longer live in the old farmhouse that's pictured here or that I write about. It's still on our farm property, though, and it has made a huge impact on my life! * * * Unless the Lord build the house, they labor in vain
- [Free at Last (The Cast is Off)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/free-at-last-the-cast-is-off/) - It’s hard to believe it’s been six weeks since that bright red cast changed my way of doing business. It’s even harder to believe that in the last four days, I’ve gotten to where I almost don’t know I had it on.Upon taking the cast off, I was x-rayed, and then told my arm was
- [The Spirit is Willing...](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-spirit-is-willing/) - ...but the arm is broken. Like it or not, I have to face the limitations of this bright red cast and the intermittant searing reminders it gives me. Like it or not, I can't type like I want to, even though there's plenty to say and lots of subject matter rattling around in my brain.
- [Swallowing My Pride](https://www.snoringscholar.com/swallowing-my-pride/) - I sent this email on Sunday:It is not easy to admit that I am swallowing my pride. In fact, it sort of hurts going down. I haven't tried it lately, and maybe that is why I had to break my arm - so God could really teach me humility. Or, more accurately, perhaps the good
- [A Visit from PoorMe](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-visit-from-poorme/) - Every so often, PoorMe pops up her head. She peeks in for a status check, to make sure things are sufficiently depressing, and then wails in the other room about anything she can get her voice around. Maybe it’s the pile of dishes signifying what a poor housekeeper she is; maybe it’s the loads of
- [The Fairy Tale Novels Make Great Summer Reading](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-fairy-tale-novels-make-great-summer-reading/) - I've started re-reading the Fairy Tale novels recently and thought I'd repost some thoughts I shared back on December 4, 2009. You should read these books if you haven't already! Late this summer, our library system in Ohio had some major budget cuts. It wasn't before I had a chance to suggest, and they had
- [My New Favorite Books: The Fairy Tale Novels](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-new-favorite-books-the-fairy-tale-novels/) - Late this summer, our library system in Ohio had some major budget cuts. It wasn't before I had a chance to suggest, and they had a chance to order, Regina Doman's fabulous series of Fairy Tale novels. The last time I felt this way about a series of books, I was in the throes of
- [Carrying the Weight of the World](https://www.snoringscholar.com/carrying-the-weight-of-the-world/) - This week, I'm taking a bit of a break and reposting some oldies but goodies. Today, I thought I'd revisit my introductory Mary Moment Monday post on November 2, 2009. Yesterday, I felt as though I was carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders. Maybe it was just general exhaustion catching up with
- [Are you going to the Catholic Writers Conference LIVE?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/are-you-going-to-the-catholic-writers-conference-live/) - Remember how I've raved about the Catholic Writers Conference Live? You should go. Not just because it's awesome. (It is.) Not just because it's at the same time as the Catholic Marketing Network's trade show. (Which ROCKS.) Not just because, this year, the Catholic New Media Conference is also going on. (Woohoo!) Did I mention
- [Battling the Stale of Summer](https://www.snoringscholar.com/battling-the-stale-of-summer/) - Are you sick of the heat, the kids, the summer? Here’s a strategy for getting past the negative things weighing you down. We’re almost at the halfway point of summer, and boy, can I feel it! We’ve had a recent bout of puke-fun, we’ve had a family vacation, and we’ve gotten bored with, well, everything. You
- [Finding Christ in the People Around Us](https://www.snoringscholar.com/finding-christ-in-the-people-around-us/) - A Mary Moment Monday post As I've struggled over the last week with vacation hangover and a state of vomitorium and a general inability to keep focused, I found myself looking at the people around me (all smaller than me, very demanding, and my main responsibility) and struggling. This excerpt from The Reed of God, by
- [Being Christ](https://www.snoringscholar.com/being-christ/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I've been reading The Reed of God, by Caryll Houselander. I don't know what I expected it to be, but it wasn't what it is. I was expecting either poetry that was way over my head or theology on Mary that bored me to pieces. What I'm finding is poetic prose
- [The Lost Art of Letters](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-lost-art-of-letters/) - A few months ago, my pen pal passed away. He had become a great friend, in part because we were both writers and we critiqued each other’s work, in part because he had a great sense of humor, and in part because of the weekly missives we would send to each other. When we started
- [I'm REALLY a Happy Catholic now!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/im-really-a-happy-catholic-now/) - I'm now part of the book reviewing crew at the Happy Catholic Bookshelf! To which we all pause and huzzah! My first post is up, in which I share brief thoughts on the pile of books I read during my vacation/offline week.
- [Over and Over and OVER](https://www.snoringscholar.com/over-and-over-and-over/) - Parents know what it's like to say the same thing over and over and OVER. And then once more, for good measure. The New Evangelization is kinda like that. We're called to proclaim anew and to keep going and going and GOING. Read more about it at New Evangelizers as we continue our discussion of Disciples
- [Writing Opportunity & Free Book](https://www.snoringscholar.com/writing-opportunity-free-book/) - I don't have time to do a proper quick takes (sob), but I wanted to share two quick things. A writing opportunity: I'm putting together a team of writers for the New Evangelizers blog. It's a great opportunity to write about the New Evangelization (which isn't as small a topic as I thought when I
- [What's our mission?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/whats-our-mission/) - In my continuing discussion of Disciples Called to Witness: The New Evangelization at New Evangelizers, I'll tell you what the bishops say the very core of our mission is.
- [Show Them Jesus](https://www.snoringscholar.com/show-them-jesus/) - How do you get people back to the Catholic Church? How do you keep young people involved? I share what the bishops have to say in Disciples Called to Witness: The New Evangelization--show them Jesus.
- [A Novel for Fortnight for Freedom](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-novel-for-fortnight-for-freedom/) - It's the Fortnight for Freedom. Are you praying? And speaking up? And praying some more? You know what you should read in the next week, or at least start during this Fortnight for Freedom? Well, yes, the Bible. Yes, what the Bishops are saying. But also Death Panels, by Michelle Buckman. Death Panels builds a world that
- [It's Personal](https://www.snoringscholar.com/its-personal/) - For the last couple of weeks at New Evangelizers, I've been discussing Disciples Called to Witness: The New Evangelization. This week, I'm examining how personal everything--especially evangelization--is. You know, because even though we're not supposed to take anything personal, it is. Very, VERY personal.
- [Recent Reads in 140 or Less](https://www.snoringscholar.com/recent-reads-in-140-or-less/) - *Idea shamelessly stolen from Jen *Collage awkwardly made at photocollage.net Until Lily (Lily Trilogy #1) by Sherry Boas (fiction) I wasn't expecting it to be as good as it was, and I can't wait to pick up the 2nd (having to be very disciplined). Highly recommended. After Miscarriage: A Catholic Woman's Companion to Healing and
- [If you blog, you can have a review copy of my new book](https://www.snoringscholar.com/if-you-blog-you-can-have-a-review-copy-of-my-new-book/) - Yes, you read that right. I have the publisher's permission to offer an e-galley copy of my upcoming book, A Catholic Mother's Companion to Pregnancy: Walking with Mary from Conception to Baptism, to anyone with a blog. ANYONE. You just have to sign up here by July 15, 2012. There are a few requirements: 1. You
- [Approved from the Top](https://www.snoringscholar.com/approved-from-the-top/) - A Mary Moment Monday post When the galley copy of my new book arrived last week, my husband sat down with it. He doesn't read most of my (non-online) writing. He's not really my audience, for one thing. For another, he isn't such a fan of reading. Not the way I am, anyway. He assures me he
- [Novena to Our Lady of Guadalupe, Day 3](https://www.snoringscholar.com/novena-to-our-lady-of-guadalupe-day-3/) - O Mary, whose Immaculate Heart was pierced by seven swords of grief, help me to walk valiantly amid the sharp thorns strewn across my pathway. Obtain for me the strength to be a true imitator of you. This I ask you, my dear Mother. Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy
- [My Writing Space (Nerds Unite)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-writing-space-nerds-unite/) - Just because Jen did this writing space link-up three days ago (or was it four?) isn't stopping me from participating late. Here's where I write: It's the far end of my kitchen counter, the dividing bar between our family room and kitchen. To my left is my kitchen sink, with the great window view that's
- [Guest Post: Time Flies, by Maria Johnson](https://www.snoringscholar.com/guest-post-time-flies-by-maria-johnson/) - Maria Johnson is known all over the SQPN airwaves for her love of Farmville, her terrific asides on the weekend, and her passion for both digging out the hidden meanings in Harry Potter and finding the relevance of Star Trek, but what has endeared her to me (besides her hilarious tweets) is her blog, which is
- [Guest Post: Exercise for Busy Moms, by Peggy Bowes](https://www.snoringscholar.com/guest-post-exercise-for-busy-moms-by-peggy-bowes/) - I first "met" Peggy Bowes when I received a review copy of her e-book The Rosary Workout (which I loved). Since then, The Rosary Workout has been published in hard copy (yay!) and Peggy has started blogging. She remains one of my favorite authors for her encouraging tone and her optimism. Exercise is no easy
- [Guest Post: Empty Nest, by Mark Szewczak](https://www.snoringscholar.com/guest-post-empty-nest-by-mark-szewczak/) - One of the greatest blessings of my blogging has been meeting friends who are not "virtual" at all, but who are real. Mark Szewczak has been one such friend for me for a year or so. Together with his wife, Nancy, he has inspired me with his ongoing faith, his honesty about his struggles, and
- [Guest Post: The Negotiator, by Katharine Grubb](https://www.snoringscholar.com/guest-post-the-negotiator-by-katharine-grubb/) - I am on my second toddler, but Katharine Grubb, who is the amazing 10 Minute Writer, has had FIVE. Maybe that's the inspiration in this short story she so generously offered to share with all of us. Of course, in my experience, Katharine is chock full of humorous remarks and insight (if you don't follow
- [Mary and the Saints via a Great Book](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-and-the-saints-via-a-great-book/) - We're discussing Mary and the saints this month in the Mary Moments carnival, and I invited anyone without a blog (or who didn't want to post on their own blog) to send me their submissions. This one is particularly interesting, sent to me by Valerie:I recently read a book entitled "Mother Theresa In The Shadow
- [Guest Article: Rainbows and Roses, by Robin Craft](https://www.snoringscholar.com/guest-article-rainbows-and-roses-by-robin-craft/) - Robin is a dear friend of mine and a parishioner who regularly submits articles for our bulletin's "Views from the Pews" section. This week's bulletin included this article, and I asked her if she would mind my sharing it here, because it resonated so deeply with me, and besides, I think I may just have
- [Jouney to Jesus, Part One, by Heather Claypool](https://www.snoringscholar.com/jouney-to-jesus-part-one/) - Hi there! I’m Heather, and I’ll be your guest blogger today! Sarah invited me to blog as a guest here, on her blog and I’m so honored. I’ve been blogging for a few months on my own blog which is pretty much geared toward photography. A couple months after I started that blog, I was
- [Journey to Jesus, Part Two, by Heather Claypool](https://www.snoringscholar.com/journey-to-jesus-part-two/) - (This is part of a continuing series. Part 1 of my conversion story is here.) As a result of my upbringing as a Jehovah’s Witness, I never planned on having much of a future. After all, if the world was going to end soon why should I start planning for college? So when my Senior
- [Journey to Jesus, Part Three, by Heather Claypool](https://www.snoringscholar.com/journey-to-jesus-part-three/) - (You can read Part 1 and Part 2 of Heather's conversion story here. Scroll down for earlier posts.) Dying Easter Eggs with my daughter yesterday, I thought I would take a few moments and talk with her a little bit about the Rosary. Yes, it’s something new to me, but it’s also something that I’m
- [Journey to Jesus, Part Four, by Heather Claypool](https://www.snoringscholar.com/journey-to-jesus-part-four/) - (Earlier posts in this series are here. Scroll down for earlier posts.) It’s been nearly a month now since I came into full communion with the Catholic Church. There have been so many thoughts and reflections going on in my mind since Easter Vigil that I haven’t had a chance to put a coherent string
- [Guest Post: Children Learning to Reach God](https://www.snoringscholar.com/guest-post-children-learning-to-reach-god/) - Thanks to Patti B. Ogden, author of Keoni's Big Question (which I reviewed here), for sharing this guest post with all of us.The five-year-old boy, who had always been so bubbly and full of life, sat stoic and disturbed. His face was contorted with whatever inner turmoil that vexed him. Suddenly he burst into a
- [Questions with Kate: Motherhood](https://www.snoringscholar.com/questions-with-kate-motherhood/) - This week, it's my honor to host a great blogging and real-life friend, Kate Wicker. Each day, she has agreed to tackle a question and share her wisdom and insight about motherhood and writing. I hope you enjoy spending this week with her as much as I do! Kate, tell us about how writing plays
- [Questions with Kate: Inspiration](https://www.snoringscholar.com/questions-with-kate-inspiration/) - This week, it's my honor to host a great blogging and real-life friend, Kate Wicker. Each day, she has agreed to tackle a question and share her wisdom and insight about motherhood and writing. I hope you enjoy spending this week with her as much as I do! (In case you missed it, here's yesterday's
- [Questions with Kate: Blogging](https://www.snoringscholar.com/questions-with-kate-blogging/) - This week, it's my honor to host a great blogging and real-life friend, Kate Wicker. Each day, she has agreed to tackle a question and share her wisdom and insight about motherhood and writing. I hope you enjoy spending this week with her as much as I do! (In case you missed it, you can
- [Questions with Kate: Priorities](https://www.snoringscholar.com/questions-with-kate-priorities/) - This week, it's my honor to host a great blogging and real-life friend, Kate Wicker. Each day, she has agreed to tackle a question and share her wisdom and insight about motherhood and writing. I hope you enjoy spending this week with her as much as I do! (In case you missed it, you can
- [Questions with Kate: Tips & Books](https://www.snoringscholar.com/questions-with-kate-tips-books/) - This week, it's my honor to host a great blogging and real-life friend, Kate Wicker. Since today's Friday, she's sharing her final thoughts as 7 Quick Takes. (Visit Jen from Conversion Diary for more fabulous takes in quick form.) (In case you missed our discussions earlier this week, Kate shared thoughts on motherhood and writing,
- [Jerry Shares - Anxiety and Depression](https://www.snoringscholar.com/jerry-shares-anxiety-and-depression/) - Greetings! My name is Jerry Weber and it’s a pleasure to be a guest here. I’m a San Diego, California, native and current resident, single with no children, high school graduate, and I have been working in the maintenance & operations field with school districts for about 11 years now. I’m a Roman Catholic, fairly
- [Jerry Shares - Faith as Foundation](https://www.snoringscholar.com/jerry-shares-faith-as-foundatio/) - Last week, we met Jerry Weber and learned about some of his struggles. This week, he'll be sharing resources that have helped him in his struggle with anxiety and depression. First and foremost I think God has been a tremendous help in my struggles. I’m still not where I want to be with it all
- [Jerry Shares - Books and Hobbies](https://www.snoringscholar.com/jerry-shares-books-and-hobbies/) - I'm honored to welcome Jerry Weber back for a discussion of his favorite books and his hobbies. If you have missed his earlier posts, you can read them here: Anxiety and Depression Faith as Foundation Recent Reading The last book I read was The Lamb’s Supper, by Dr. Scott Hahn. The book is already ten
- [Guest Post: Fiat! Let It Be Done To Me!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/guest-post-fiat-let-it-be-done-to-me/) - We have Jeff Young, the Catholic Foodie, to thank for this reflection on Mary, Joseph, and the power of our Yes and No in honor of the Solemnity of the Annunciation of Our Lord. Thanks, Jeff! -- "Behold, I am the Handmaid of the Lord; let it be done to me according to your word” (Lk.
- [Guest Post: Saint Joseph, a Just Man](https://www.snoringscholar.com/guest-post-saint-joseph-a-just-man/) - We have Jeff Young, of Catholic Foodie fame, to thank for this lovely reflection on St. Joseph, in honor of his feast day today. Thanks, Jeff! -- “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High and abides in the shade of the Almighty says to the Lord: ‘My refuge, my stronghold, my God
- [God's Love, by Mark Szewczak](https://www.snoringscholar.com/gods-love-by-mark-szewczak/) - I'm so blessed to welcome Mark Szewczak back to my corner of cyberspace. If you missed his last reflection about life in an empty nest, do go read it. Thanks to Mark for sharing his wisdom and tender heart with all of us and for his reminder of how much God loves us. -- Recently
- [Sleep Solutions, by Young Mom](https://www.snoringscholar.com/sleep-solutions-by-young-mom/) - Young Mom blogs about life with three children aged three and under at Musings of a Young Mom. She is the wife of a Protestant Minister, but is interested in the Catholic Church. She uses her blog to write about her religious journey as well. Today she shares about her battles with sleep...and asks for your input. --
- [7 Things You Never Knew About the Pope, by Melissa Tamura](https://www.snoringscholar.com/seven-things-you-never-knew-about-the-pope-by-melissa-tamura/) - Melissa Tamura writes about online degree programs for the Zen College Life blog. She most recently ranked the top criminal justice schools in the USA. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her cats, much like His Excellency. -- Pope Benedict XVI is a very gentle and erudite man who has unique talents
- [A Walk in the Woods, by Katharine Grubb](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-walk-in-the-woods-by-katharine-grubb/) - She needs no introduction, but if you haven't met her, be sure to visit Katharine Grubb on Twitter, at her fabulous blog, 10 Minute Writer, or her Facebook fan page. Enjoy! -- When it comes to family vacations, I have a few traditions. Our first tradition is choosing pretend names for ourselves, to be used
- [Summer Days, Family Days, by Judy Dudich](https://www.snoringscholar.com/summer-days-family-days-by-judy-dudich/) - You'll find Judy Dudich having summertime fun with her family in the beautiful woods of Pennsylvania and online at Homeschool Faith and Family Life, Benmakesten, and at her weekly column at CatholicMom.com. Thanks, Judy, for joining us here this week! -- (Sing to the tune of “My Favorite Things” from The Sound of Music): Freeze
- [Learning to Read...Again, by Dorian Speed](https://www.snoringscholar.com/learning-to-read-again-by-dorian-speed/) - Today's guest poster, Dorian Speed, blogs at Scrutinies about her life as a former Catholic high school teacher and current homeschooling mom. (She's also on Twitter as @DMSpeed.) Thanks to Dorian for being so candid here with her struggles with reading and comprehension! -- “How many times have you daydreamed through several pages of a
- [Summertime Pondering, by Maria Johnson](https://www.snoringscholar.com/summertime-pondering-by-maria-johnson/) - Maria Johnson is known all over the SQPN airwaves for her love of Farmville, her terrific asides on the weekend, and her passion for both digging out the hidden meanings in Harry Potter and finding the relevance of Star Trek, but what has endeared her to me (besides her hilarious tweets) is her blog, which is
- [Watermelon Days, by Mark Szewczak](https://www.snoringscholar.com/watermelon-days-by-mark-szewczak/) - Today I welcome Mark Szewczak back to my corner of cyberspace. (If you've missed his previous posts, you're missing some real gems.) Thanks to Mark for once again sharing his wisdom and tender heart with all of us. -- A recent, excellent column by Colleen Mitchell triggered some thoughts I’d like to share. A good
- [Summer is Nigh, Give Healthy Eating a Try, by Peggy Bowes](https://www.snoringscholar.com/summer-is-nigh-by-peggy-bowes/) - Peggy Bowes has been here before and shared wisdom, and I'm delighted that she offered to stop by again. Peggy's the author of The Rosary Workout and a columnist at Catholic.net. You can also find her blogging, Twittering, and Facebooking. Thanks, Peggy, for joining us today! -- “And from the fig tree learn a parable:
- [The Wisdom of a Rabbit, by Christine Johnson](https://www.snoringscholar.com/wisdom-of-a-rabbit-christine-johnson/) - I've gotten to know Christine Johnson, who blogs at Domestic Vocation and can also be found on Twitter, over the years, but I don't remember when we first "met;" I think it had to do with the Catholic Carnivals of days gone by. As a youngish wife, I really appreciate Christine's thoughts today and hope
- [Looking for the Hat, by Cathy Adamkiewicz](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-for-the-hat-by-cathy-adamkiewicz/) - Cathy A. (because I only just learned how to pronounce her last name at the CNMC, and she will be Cathy A. to me no matter what) has been blogging for quite some time. Her blog name, in fact, "from the field of blue children," is a whole story in and of itself. (What's not
- [The Joy of Pregnant Suffering, by Jeanine Spano](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-joy-of-pregnant-suffering-by-jeanine-spano/) - When I did a recent call for guest posts on Facebook and Twitter, I was delighted -- as I usually am -- to meet Jeanine Spano. Jeanine tweets and has a passion for writing, but she's at the beginning of things. I relate with that. I remember that. And I encouraged her to send me
- [School Seasons, by Mark Szewczak](https://www.snoringscholar.com/school-seasons-by-mark-szewczak/) - Here we are, the end of the Summer, and the world is full of school preparation activities. Final shopping expeditions and the back-to-school sales, packing for college or final summer vacations, young folks preparing for the next year or first year of high school, little ones excited about seeing friends again or sorry that endless
- [The Beauty of Brownies, by Mark Szewczak](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-beauty-of-brownies-by-mark-szewczak/) - Mark Szewczak needs no introduction: you only have to be on the receiving end of his humor, wisdom, and kindness to feel the hand of God at work through him. He's written here before (much to my delight), and today's contribution not only makes me drool, it makes me smile even wider than usual. Mark,
- [Healthy Lunch Box Ideas Video, by Peggy Bowes](https://www.snoringscholar.com/healthy-lunch-box-ideas-video-by-peggy-bowes/) - Peggy Bowes has been here before and shared her wisdom. You might know her as the author of The Rosary Workout or a columnist at Catholic.net. Maybe you've come across her blogging, Twittering, and Facebooking. Today, Peggy shares her tips for packing healthy lunches for your back-to-school kids (and I'm going to use some of
- [A Peek into Chalice, by Heidi Jury](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-peek-into-chalice-by-heidi-jury/) - The other day, I linked to a post by Heidi Jury, the community moderator at chaliceprayer.org. Today, join me in welcoming her here to tell us a bit about working for and with Chalice. In addition to her work with Chalice, she's a mom and has a background in music. She's an avid reader and
- [From the Back of the Church](https://www.snoringscholar.com/from-the-back-of-the-church/) - Today we welcome Jenny from A Minute Captured for a reflection on Mass from the back of the church. Thank you, Jenny, for such a heart-felt post and for sharing your beautiful photography. -- He walks the pew, back and forth, back and forth. I'm afraid we may look like some weird contortion of the
- [Teaching the Catechism](https://www.snoringscholar.com/teaching-the-catechism/) - Thanks to Charline Cormier-Pellerin for this guest post. She resides in Moncton, New Brunswick, with her husband and their four children. She can be found at Bread 'n Molasses and at Times & Transcript, where she shares everything from crafts to rants in her regular parenting columns. -- When registering our first-born for her very
- [Showing Our Gratitude in Our Tweets](https://www.snoringscholar.com/showing-gratitude-in-our-tweets/) - By Maria Johnson We’ve all heard it – The Internet is an insidious source of distraction and evil in contemporary society. It’s true! I blame a certain little addiction to cute farm animals and shiny pink tractors as one of those distractions. Thanks to family and friends mocking me at every obnoxious status update, I
- [Guest Post: Reflecting the Light of the Son, by Peggy Bowes](https://www.snoringscholar.com/guest-post-reflecting-the-light-of-the-son-by-peggy-bowes/) - Peggy Bowes graciously offered to share her thoughts on Mary with us this month, and I was so excited. I just loved the wisdom she shared last time she was here. You'll find her blog at Don't Know Much About the Rosary? She's the author of The Rosary Workout (which I loved), which has recently
- [Guest Post: What's to "Get"? by Meredith Gould](https://www.snoringscholar.com/guest-post-whats-to-ge-by-meredith-gould/) - Meredith Gould is the author of The Catholic Home: Celebrations and Traditions and Why Is There a Menorah on the Altar? Jewish Roots of Christian Worship. She blogs at More Meredith Gould and serves as editor of The Virtual Abbey. I've come to know and love her through Twitter. Many thanks to her for sharing
- [Guest Post: Make Me a May Crown, by Jeff Young](https://www.snoringscholar.com/guest-post-make-me-a-may-crown-by-jeff-young/) - I'm honored to share this reflection on Mary by Jeff Young, who you may know from Catholic Foodie fame. It's a joy to read his thoughts on Mary and a pleasure to be able to share them with you. Be sure to check out the Catholic Foodie and Jeff's consulting business, Mac & Media. --
- [On Google, God, and New Media, by Pat Gohn](https://www.snoringscholar.com/on-google-god-and-new-media-by-pat-gohn/) - Today, media maven Pat Gohn has graciously offered her talents here. If that sounds like a familiar name, that's because I rave quite regularly about her Among Women podcast and its accompanying blog. Pat's also a regular contributor at CatholicMom.com, Faith & Family Live, and Today's Catholic Woman. Thanks, Pat, for joining us today! --
- [Curing the Summertime Blues, by Maia](https://www.snoringscholar.com/curing-the-summertime-blues-by-maia/) - This is an example of a fabulous guest post that was lost in the shuffle during my email crisis. Though it's perhaps not as relevant now that school's just about to start (next week! really?), I wanted to post it before summer was completely gone, especially since Maia was kind enough to send it and
- [My Rosary Friendship, by Maria Johnson](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-rosary-friendship-by-maria-johnson/) - Maria Johnson's been in these parts before, and having her here is a virtual version of how I envision heaven: filled with my great friends and comrades, drinking beverages and quipping and praying (not necessarily in that order). Be sure to visit Maria at her blog (Another Cup of Coffee) and on Twitter, where she's
- [Welcome to Ellen Gable Hrkach!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/welcome-to-ellen-gable-hrkach/) - This week, I have a special treat for you -- a series of rosary posts by the wonderful and inspiring Ellen Gable Hrkach. I've known Ellen virtually for a few years (and hope to meet her face-to-face someday and give her a long-deserved hug!), and I loved her two novels (reviewed here and here). Ellen
- [Prayers of Love, by Ellen Gable Hrkach](https://www.snoringscholar.com/prayers-of-love-by-ellen-gable-hrkach/) - It's an honor to have Ellen Gable Hrkach here for a guest series of posts on the rosary. She'll be guest posting every day this week. Enjoy! -- “When lovers are together, they spend hours and hours repeating the same thing: I love you! What is missing in the people who think the Rosary monotonous,
- [Amazing Results, by Ellen Gable Hrkach](https://www.snoringscholar.com/amazing-results-by-ellen-gable-hrkach/) - Today we continue Ellen Gable Hrkach's series of guest posts on the rosary. Read more about Ellen in my introduction or at her blog. -- "The holy Rosary is a powerful weapon. Use it with confidence and you'll be amazed at the results." - St. Josemaria Escriva Although I grew up in a Catholic family,
- [Melee in the Courtroom, by Ellen Gable Hrkach](https://www.snoringscholar.com/melee-in-the-courtroom-by-ellen-gable-hrkach/) - Today, I bring you another gem from Ellen Gable Hrkach's series of guest posts on the rosary. You can read more about Ellen in my introduction or at her blog. -- "The Rosary is a powerful weapon to put the demons to flight and to keep oneself from sin…If you desire peace in your hearts,
- [Our Lady's Intercession Frees a Woman, by Ellen Gable Hrkach](https://www.snoringscholar.com/our-ladys-intercession-frees-a-woman-by-ellen-gable-hrkach/) - Here's the next in Ellen Gable Hrkach's series of guest posts on the rosary. There's more about Ellen in my introduction or at her blog. -- “There is no problem, I tell you, no matter how difficult it is, that we cannot resolve by the prayer of the Holy Rosary.” - Sister Lucia of Fatima
- [Now and at the Hour of Our Death, by Ellen Gable Hrkach](https://www.snoringscholar.com/now-and-at-the-hour-of-our-death-by-ellen-gable-hrkach/) - It's hard to believe that we're already at the final installment of Ellen Gable Hrkach's series of guest posts on the rosary. Be sure to check out Ellen's work, which can be found linked at her blog. A hearty thanks to her for spending the week here! -- “If you say the Rosary faithfully unto
- [The Franciscan Crown Rosary, by SFO Mom](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-franciscan-crown-rosary-by-sfo-mom/) - Barb Szyszkiewicz has been a friend since my early days of blogging, and her blog, SFO Mom, never ceases to entertain me, even as it educates me about Catholic living. Barb is a secular Franciscan and graciously offered to share more about the Franciscan Crown Rosary in a guest post. Enjoy! -- October is the
- [The Inner Beauty of the Rosary, by Jane Lebak](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-inner-beauty-of-the-rosary-by-jane-lebak/) - Today's guest post is courtesy of Jane Lebak, who is the author of the Catholic novel Seven Archangels: Annihilation and a blogger at "Seven angels, four kids, one family." Thanks to Jane for sharing this touching story of her journey to praying the rosary, despite a bit of a crisis. -- One of the Marian
- [A Most Informal Prayer, by Barb Patterson](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-most-informal-prayer-by-barb-patterson/) - Barb Patterson, who I know from Facebook and other online sites, offered to share about her rosary group when I posted an offer for people to guest post on my blog about the rosary in October. In many ways, what she talks about here is what I'd love to see in my own local group
- [Writing Rachel's Contrition, by Michelle Buckman](https://www.snoringscholar.com/writing-rachels-contrition-by-michelle-buckman/) - Now here's a treat: author Michelle Buckman agreed to share a guest post today. After I asked about the inspiration and experience she had writing her amazing novel Rachel's Contrition (which I'm giving away this week, in case you missed it, so GO ENTER!), she responded with this post. I'm humbled and honored to be
- [Life in the Mission Fields, by Wendy Swantek](https://www.snoringscholar.com/life-in-the-mission-fields-by-wendy-swantek/) - We became friends in junior high and our friendship has lasted through the years. Though we don't talk much (I'm notoriously bad at phone calls), we have stayed in touch. She's the mom of two cutie-patootie boys and the blogger at Life Lines. She sent me this post with an invitation to share it with
- [The Stories in Infinite Space, Infinite God II](https://www.snoringscholar.com/infinite-space-infinite-gods-2/) - I had a chance to read an early copy of Infinite Space, Infinite God II last year, and it was just as awesome as I expected it to be after loving the first collection. Today, I'm honored to host Karina Fabian, who shares about each of the stories in this fabulous volume. Enjoy! -- Infinite
- [Mothering Boys, by Wendy Swantek](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mothering-boys-by-wendy-swantek/) - I have to trust other people about this whole business of mothering boys, because after two girls, it's a little...different. My friend Wendy sent these tips to me as a way to help me when she found out our third baby (born at the end of November) was a boy. She generously gave me permission
- [Reflections on the Feast of St. Joseph](https://www.snoringscholar.com/reflections-on-the-feast-of-st-joseph/) - Thanks to Bryan Murdaugh (bryanmurdaugh.com and @murdaugh on Twitter) for today's wonderful reflection on St. Joseph! Today’s liturgical collision of Lenten preparation and the Feast of St. Joseph is rich. Too rich to cover even a fraction of the figures and realities which the Church, guided through the Holy Spirit, has gifted God’s people. So
- [Prayer of Abandonment](https://www.snoringscholar.com/prayer-of-abandonment/) - A guest post by Lisa Jones, one of the blogging sisters at Of Sound Mind and Spirit and on Twitter as @SoundMindSpirit. This Lent, I’ve heard many people reference a Prayer of Abandonment by Charles de Foucald. As I sat down the first time with it, I found myself unable to pray all the words.
- [Making Time for God](https://www.snoringscholar.com/making-time-for-god/) - A guest post by Lisa Lawmaster Hess I stink at making time for God. Oh sure, I attend Mass. I even sing in the choir and write for the church newsletter. And I pray, of course - murmured moments of gratitude in the morning for all I've been given, sleepy supplications as I drift off
- [Flores de Mayo](https://www.snoringscholar.com/flores-de-mayo/) - A guest post by Lyn Francisco In the mostly Catholic Philippines, May is the month in which daily venerations to Mary take place. This custom, known to Filipinos as “Alay kay Maria” (offering to Mary), or Flores de Mayo (Flowers of May), which began in 1854 after the Vatican proclamation of the dogma of the
- [Blooming Devotion for Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/blooming-devotion-for-mary/) - A guest post by Allicia Jensen-soon-to-be-Faber There was a flower bush in my grandmother’s back yard. She swears she didn’t plant it, but it was always there, just under the statue of Mary. My devotion to the Mother of God started something like that; I don’t know where the seed came from but one day
- [The Blessed Mother and Me](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-blessed-mother-and-me/) - A guest post by John O'Brien In 1992, at the age of 35, I was exhausted from life. All the big questions of life were unanswered for me and I had used up the list the world had told me would make me happy. I crashed and burned. Our Mother, who I did not know,
- [Finding Devotion to Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/finding-devotion-to-mary/) - A guest post by Noelle Mador It has been a long six year journey with my devotion to Mary. Six years ago, I felt as if my life was falling apart. I was Catholic, but felt lost and struggling in my prayer life. I was in the midst of a nervous breakdown. Life didn’t turn
- [Fighting Summer Boredom](https://www.snoringscholar.com/fighting-summer-boredom/) - A guest post by Kim Beeghley In the later part of May, I said to myself, “OH NO! Three weeks until school is out. WHAT am I going to do?” During this time, three of my four children (ages 13, 10, 8 and 6) were still in school and my six-year-old, who just graduated from
- [A Catholic Convert on Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-catholic-convert-on-mary/) - A guest post by Elizabeth Ficocelli Growing up as a lukewarm Lutheran, I had no particular relationship with the mother of Jesus. We didn’t learn much about her in Sunday School and we certainly didn’t have anything to do with her in family life. When I entered the Catholic Church as a young adult, I
- [I Remember Mama](https://www.snoringscholar.com/i-remember-mama/) - A Special Mary Moment Monday Post by Deacon Tom Fox It is an honor to be asked by a wordsmith to do an e-guest appearance and to submit a column on a topic that may interest or invite readership. I best not tarry. One would guess that the profile of readers who frequent this area
- [The Assumption: Bringing Mary Close](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-assumption-bringing-mary-close/) - A special Mary Moment Monday guest post by Brandon Vogt When I first became Catholic, I had a lot of issues with Mary. How could she hear and answer our prayers? How could the Church describe her as the Mother of God? How in the world could we believe that she never sinned? But one
- [Who doesn't like flowers on her birthday?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/who-doesnt-like-flowers-on-her-birthday/) - By Julie Filby Picture this: a little boy picks a bright pink fuchsia and holds the blooms up to his mother’s ears. He giggles and says, “Look Mommy, earrings!” The mother smiles lovingly at her son, who is so pleased with the gift he’s given her. Now, imagine that child is Jesus and the mother
- [Mary's Dowry and the Rosary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/marys-dowry-and-the-rosary/) - By Stephanie MannBefore the 16th century English Reformation, England was called Mary’s Dowry. The English people and their monarchs had great devotion to Mary. They often went on pilgrimage to the shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham. When Henry VIII broke away from the universal Catholic Church and the authority of the papacy, all that
- [Inspired by Mary at the End of Pregnancy](https://www.snoringscholar.com/inspired-by-mary-at-the-end-of-pregnancy/) - By Shelly Kelly I woke up in the middle of the night convinced that Jesus must have been a preemie. Or that Mary did not carry him for the full forty weeks we define pregnancy. I know the Bible is big on the number forty, but it is impossible for me to imagine Mary willingly
- [The Rosary that Changed the Way I Pray the Rosary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-rosary-that-changed-the-way-i-pray-the-rosary/) - By Victoria Q. DeBayle There was one rosary that forever changed the way I pray the Rosary. At the end of my freshman year of college, our Campus Minister announced that she would be leaving her post to follow a religious vocation. As a parting gift, a member of the Catholic Student Association suggested that
- [Reluctantly Agreeing to Pray the Daily Rosary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/reluctantly-agreeing-to-pray-the-daily-rosary/) - By Jennifer Fitz I'm an auxiliary member of the Legion of Mary, which is a serious commitment. When you join, you promise to pray prescribed prayers every day, which include a daily rosary. Not something to just jump into. As I did. Completely by accident. At the wrong parish. Here's what happened: I was praying
- [A Cheat Sheet for Salvation History](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-cheat-sheet-for-salvation-history/) - By Joe Wetterling There are wonderful spiritual benefits, for ourselves and others, when we pray the rosary. What about intellectual benefits? Can the rosary help us understand our faith better? Can it help us transform by renewing our minds, as St. Paul instructed? Yes! Broadly, the three traditional sets of mysteries take us through the
- [100 Goats: A Christmas Project for World Vision](https://www.snoringscholar.com/100-goats-a-christmas-project-for-world-vision/) - By Katharine Grubb At Christmastime in years past, I've received the World Vision catalog in the mail. And unlike the other catalogs, like American Girl, there's a part of me that would be moved. World Vision's catalog is filled with gifts to give that could save lives, that could combat world hunger, that could lift a family out
- [Government Pork](https://www.snoringscholar.com/government-pork/) - In 1905, G.K. Chesterton wrote, in Heretics, People wonder why the novel is the most popular form of literature; people wonder why it is read more than books of science or books of metaphysics. The reason is very simple; it is merely that the novel is more true than they are. Life may sometimes legitimately
- [3 Good Ways to Go to Extremes](https://www.snoringscholar.com/3-good-ways-to-go-to-extremes/) - By Stephen Martin My eight-year-old son’s greatest pleasure at the dinner table lately can be summed up with one word: belching. My mom always cringed when my brother or I did the same growing up. Now I’m beginning to see her side of things. Take this recent scene from my house, during what had been
- [Confirmation Boot Camp Now in Session](https://www.snoringscholar.com/confirmation-boot-camp-now-in-session/) - I'm hoping to write more soon about Confirmation Boot Camp and how it works, especially since I'm in the midst of it (today's the last day of our first week) and it's very much on my mind, in my heart, and bursting from me. Wondering what in the world I'm talking about? Here's last year's
- [A Saturday Morning Daybook](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-saturday-morning-daybook/) - Outside my window: The sun is shining in. Around the house: Silence, blissful and quiet. Won't last much longer. What I've been writing: I have another big project on my plate (yes, a book) and there's the usual assortment of online writing. Do you like having a list of my writing in other places? I've
- [Sacred, Immaculate, Huh?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/sacred-immaculate-huh/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Light streamed in through the stained glass windows, creating halos around everyone’s heads. The smell of lilies and hyacinths mingled among the crowded pews. Everyone seemed to be smiling. I was attending my first Easter Mass with the man who would later become my husband. I had been attending Mass with
- [Seven Takes on Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters](https://www.snoringscholar.com/seven-takes-on-strong-fathers-strong-daughters/) - I read Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters: 10 Secrets Every Father Should Know, by Meg Meeker, M.D., after reading Michelle's review. Michelle referred to it as "an absolute must read for anyone who has a daughter or anyone who has sons who may one day marry someone else's daughter." I had my heart set on my
- [Three Great Novels by Catholic Authors](https://www.snoringscholar.com/three-great-novels-by-catholic-authors/) - Looking for summer reading? My latest at Integrated Catholic Life shares three of my recent fiction reads, all by Catholic authors. Enjoy!
- [My Summer Yes](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-summer-yes/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Last week, my seven-year-old altered my summer plans. It was just a typical running-across-the-yard sort of thing, but this time, her foot slipped on the plastic of the kiddie pool. It could have happened to anyone (well, anyone who was running across the yard toward said kiddie pool). But it
- [A Twitterview Jaunt with Amy Welborn](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-twitterview-jaunt-with-amy-welborn/) - I've been a fan of Amy Welborn's writing for quite a few years. Her book on Mary (available now as a free pdf) remains one of the best I've read, and her latest book, Wish You Were Here, really made an impact on me. I sent Amy five questions about writing Wish You Were Here,
- [Can you pause for prayer for us?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/can-you-pause-for-prayer-for-us/) - I feel like I abuse you sometimes, asking you to pray. Then again, we have felt the support and encouragement during our roughest, darkest times, and that brings me back to you. Could you pause, when you read this, and say a prayer? I can't share details or specifics just yet (or maybe ever), but
- [Commanded to Be Witnesses](https://www.snoringscholar.com/commanded-to-be-witnesses/) - The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops released a new document recently, Disciples Called to Witness: The New Evangelization. I'm share some thoughts from the preface over at New Evangelizers today.
- [The Changing Flowers around Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-changing-flowers-around-mary/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Not only did I get off my duff and finally organize a space for a May altar, but I've kept the flowers fresh. And, being a not-always-slacking blogger, I even took pictures with the less-than-steller camera I have around here. In the beginning, lovely lavendar stock and an apple blossom
- [Book Talk: Recent Fiction I've Read](https://www.snoringscholar.com/book-talk-recent-fiction-ive-read/) - Here are three novels I recommend for your summer reading pile: Sons of Cain By Val Bianco My rating: 4 out of 5 stars I didn't realize that I've always longed for a Catholic Tom Clancy, but here you have it: a book Catholic men will probably just love. Though I found parts of it
- [Bless Your Day](https://www.snoringscholar.com/bless-your-day/) - It’s a busy time of year. How, exactly, is a mom supposed to stay sane? As busy as you must be, you HAVE to pause for prayer. Every mom I know is on the verge of losing her mind by this point in May, myself included. It doesn’t seem to matter if you have kids
- [Looking for the Hail Mary Series?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-for-the-hail-mary-series/) - I thought I was being all clever, linking each word at the beginning of each post in the Looking Closer at the Hail Mary series, but as a service to you, dear reader, here is a round-up of what we've covered so far. When we're finished, I'll do a wrap-up post and link to everything
- [Believing Nothing Is Impossible](https://www.snoringscholar.com/believing-nothing-is-impossible/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I take a lot of comfort from this insight from the pope: Mary truly believed that 'nothing is impossible to God' and, strong in this confidence she let herself be guided by the Holy Spirit in daily obedience to his plan. How can we not desire that same trusting abandon
- [A Few Words with James Anderson](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-few-words-with-james-anderson/) - You may recall my recent raving review of The Legacy of the Stone Harp books. You may also remember that I interviewed one of the authors, Mark Sebanc, a while back. Today I present to you the other half of the duo that is the authorship of those books, James Anderson. What do you hope
- [An Unlikely Disciple](https://www.snoringscholar.com/an-unlikely-disciple/) - When I stop to think about the work I do, whether in the various venues I write or in my own home, it's hard to stop from being paralyzed. Who am I to give anyone advice about Christianity? Who am I to be entrusted with the souls of these children and the responsibility of parenthood? I'm not the first
- [Planting Seeds](https://www.snoringscholar.com/planting-seeds/) - I like to think I have some powers of persuasion, that I am good with words. But still, the fact remains: I have never succeeded in converting another person. A few years ago, I nearly severed a close friendship in my enthusiasm and zeal over Theology of the Body and Church teaching on contraception. Conversion isn't something
- [The Lazy Mom's Mary Garden](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-lazy-moms-mary-garden/) - I'm a fan of Mary Gardens. At least in theory. When it comes to the details, though, I get a little fuzzy. First, I have to figure out a budget for buying all those special plants. Then, I have to make the time to actually do it. And there's sure to be more steps, and
- [Wordless Wednesday: a boy's gotta do...](https://www.snoringscholar.com/wordless-wednesday-a-boys-gotta-do/)
- [Kevin Lowry in 140 or Less](https://www.snoringscholar.com/kevin-lowry-in-140-or-less/) - If the name Kevin Lowry isn't familiar to you, allow me to change that. Kevin's the author of a great new book, Faith at Work: Finding Purpose Beyond the Paycheck. (I'll be reviewing it in depth next week.) Kevin also blogs at Grateful Convert, where you can find his conversion story, his recent reading recommendations,
- [Mary as Mama](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-as-mama/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Four letters, two syllables. Mama. Sometimes, the soothing balm to my days. Other times, pronounced in certain way, I find myself cringing, knowing what's coming next. Mama. I don't remember using this term for my own mother-figures. I don't recall ever saying this as a child, but maybe I've just
- [Book Talk: What I've Read Lately (Nonfiction)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/book-talk-what-ive-read-lately-nonfiction/) - I've read some GRRRRREAT books lately. I can't help but reflect that I'm pretty lucky: it's rare that I read a book I don't like. This is in part because I've just gotten over that desire to finish every single book, in part because I've gotten better at picking what I will actually read (before
- [The Month of Moms and Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-month-of-moms-and-mary/) - A Mary Moment Monday post In all the years I have been enjoying the month of May, it’s been its designation as Mary’s Month that is my favorite. There are a lot of reasons May is a great time to remember Our Blessed Mother Mary. There are lots of flowers blooming, and what kid doesn’t
- [Hallie Lord, Twitter-style](https://www.snoringscholar.com/hallie-lord-twitter-style/) - Hallie Lord is no stranger to Twitter. She's active there as @BettyBeguiles and in a number of other places, which you can find all linky-organized in her sidebar at her blog, Betty Beguiles. If you've been under a rock for the last few months, you might have missed the news about Hallie's book, Style, Sex,
- [On the Last Day of April](https://www.snoringscholar.com/on-the-last-day-of-april/) - A Mary Moment Monday post A year ago, we were still living in the old farmhouse. Now we're in a palace. A year ago, the boy was just starting to roll over. You can see what he's doing NOW... A year ago, I didn't have any books published. And now... On the last day of
- [Takin Ten with Greg & Jennifer Willits](https://www.snoringscholar.com/takin-ten-with-greg-jennifer-willits/) - Greg and Jennifer Willits have been on the forefront of Catholic media since I began downloading SQPN content a few years ago. These days, you can hear their show, The Catholics Next Door, on Sirius/XM and you can read their new book, The Catholics Next Door: Adventures in Imperfect Living (which I reviewed yesterday). I sent
- [Quick Takes with a New Book: The Catholics Next Door](https://www.snoringscholar.com/quick-takes-with-a-new-book-the-catholics-next-door/) - --- 1 --- I've been a fan of Greg and Jennifer Willits since their podcasting days. It's been a delight to see them get bigger and better...now they have a show on Sirius/XM and also a new book, The Catholics Next Door: Adventures in Imperfect Living. --- 2 --- I wasn't sure what to expect
- [Live and Let Fly...but not before you read it!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/live-and-let-fly-but-not-before-you-read-it/) - I am always on the lookout for good fiction. When it's written from a Catholic worldview, that's a bonus. When it includes tough nuns who have a sense of humor that makes me want to know them in real life, that's gonna keep my attention. When it has a mystery, adventure, and humor, it might
- [Tapping into my ENTJ-ness](https://www.snoringscholar.com/tapping-into-my-entj-ness/) - Were you here looking for a Mary Moment Monday post? Well, sorry to disappoint, but I'm completely unable to focus on anything but this Myers-Briggs fun stuff zipping through my mind. A few months ago, MrsDarwin got me thinking about it with her post about love languages. And then there was a discussion on Twitter a
- [The Hope of the Resurrection](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-hope-of-the-resurrection/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Ah, Lent is over. We leave the desert for the feast. And I find myself wondering, yet again, what the point of it all really is. Chocolate bunnies and shreds of colored grass? Fancy new shoes and curled hair? Egg hunts and bouquets? It's all too easy to get jaded
- [Seven with Mark Sebanc](https://www.snoringscholar.com/seven-with-mark-sebanc/) - Mark Sebanc is one of the authors of the Legacy of the Stone Harp books (which I reviewed at Integrated Catholic Life recently). Mark was kind enough to answer a few questions I sent his way recently. Tell us a little about yourself. I live on backwoods bush farm in the depths of rural Ontario,
- [Sometimes, it's just easier to be naked](https://www.snoringscholar.com/sometimes-its-just-easier-to-be-naked/) - I’ve discovered something about myself recently, and it came by way of a friend. She recounted how, as she was sharing in front of a group of her fellow parishioners, she suddenly realized she might have been sharing too much. “But it felt right,” she said. “The Spirit was at work. Suddenly, I felt so
- [Wisdom and Insight from Christina](https://www.snoringscholar.com/wisdom-and-insight-from-christina/) - If you haven't heard of Christina Ries, you've surely heard of a website that she's highly involved with: Catholic Match. If you're like me, you follow her Twenty Something columns in your diocesan newspaper (which still have her maiden name, Capecchi, on them). The official scoop: Christina's an award-winning writer and editor from St. Paul,
- [A Few Words with Emily Stimpson](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-few-words-with-emily-stimpson/) - I first noticed Emily Stimpson when she wrote an article for OSV about Catholic media. And then, lo and behold, I met her later that week at the Behold Conference! The reality of Emily Stimpson is delightful, let me tell you. Emily's book, The Catholic Girl’s Survival Guide for the Single Years: The Nuts and Bolts
- [Reflections Courtesy of the Boy](https://www.snoringscholar.com/reflections-courtesy-of-the-boy/) - I’m new to the world of mothering boys. It started a little over two years ago, when our world was already quaking with big changes. I found out we would have a new baby in our arms that fall. Then we found out it would be a boy. My husband’s reaction was immediate. This was true
- [Urgent Prayer Request](https://www.snoringscholar.com/urgent-prayer-request/) - I don't usually post twice in one day, but something has come up. I can't share details, but can I ask a huge favor? Would you remember a very special intention of my family's during Holy Week and Easter? Would you please hold us in prayer? Thanks, friends! May God bless you abundantly. Note: I'm making
- [The Rachel Rosary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-rachel-rosary/) - The Rachel Rosary, by Rev. Larry Kupferman (available free on Google books), is beautiful and heartbreaking. It's an intercessory prayer for victims of post-abortion syndrome, and in this, the month of the Rosary and respect life month, seems to be the time to share it with you and invite you to pray with me for
- [My Blogging Talk at the CNMC MMX](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-blogging-talk-at-the-cnmc-mmx/) - For everyone who couldn't make it and for anyone who's slightly curious, here's the uStream of my talk last weekend at the Catholic New Media Celebration (also embedded below). I follow the brilliantly talented Thomas Peters, of the American Papist blog, and my talk starts at 01:02:04 on this video (it's worth watching and listening
- [Why I Write](https://www.snoringscholar.com/why-i-write/) - A Mary Moment Monday post It’s Mary’s fault that I write. Yes, I blame her. Writing was a dream of mine years ago, when I was a wee girl living in the country and filling notebooks with terrible tales, but I never thought I’d actually do it as work. The reality of writing, though, is such that I can only
- [Leading Me to Jesus](https://www.snoringscholar.com/leading-me-to-jesus/) - A Mary Moment Monday post His little hand is so often wiggling out of mine as he screeches. He has places to go. His little knees are getting a steady diet of bruises and his nose is covered in scabs from a meeting he had recently with some concrete. He has things to do. His
- [Shameless Pictures of Me with the Cool Kids](https://www.snoringscholar.com/shameless-pictures-of-me-with-the-cool-kids/) - I'm not good at getting pictures when I go to events. A few weeks ago, though, when I was at the Behold Conference, I made sure to get some shots. Here we have the awesome Elizabeth Duffy and Mrs. Darwin, who let me tag along with them. It was great road trippin' fun, I tell ya! Kate Wicker and her
- [The Beauty of Spiritual Direction](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-beauty-of-spiritual-direction/) - Only a few years after I became Catholic, I started working for our parish office. I spent at least two years exclaiming in shock and delight about the many different “secret handshakes” of our Catholic faith. My entry to the Catholic Church was preceded by my ego and my pride. I walked into each RCIA
- [Have a Laugh in Heaven for Me: A Memoriam of Walt Staples](https://www.snoringscholar.com/have-a-laugh-in-heaven-for-me-a-memoriam-of-walt-staples/) - I don't know, really, how I became friends with Walt Staples. We were both members of the Catholic Writers Guild, and I suppose that's where it started. At one of the online conferences, we became crit partners. What that means, with someone like Walt, is that I got a first glimpse at his hilarious and
- [Our Lady of Girlfriends](https://www.snoringscholar.com/our-lady-of-girlfriends/) - A Mary Moment Monday post The toughest critic many of us face as wives, mothers, and women in general are fellow females. We are our own worst enemies. Even so, I can’t think of anyone I’d rather call on a dreary morning than the older mom-friend I have who always insists I come over. When I
- [The Pope Who Quit (or, Who Knew I'd Enjoy a History Lesson?)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-pope-who-quit-or-who-knew-id-enjoy-a-history-lesson/) - If it wasn't for the influence of other people, I might well just stay in the little reading box marked "fun fiction." I might never try anything new, and wow! Look at what I'd miss! You could have never told me I would enjoy history, not after I suffered through high school history and negotiated
- [The Importance of Words](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-importance-of-words/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I have a fascination with words. I can't help it: not only am I an avid reader and a prolific writer, I'm a word nerd. We can say, especially on the playground of childhood, that "sticks and stones can break my bones, but words will never hurt me," but we're
- [The Way: A Rave Review & a Chance to Win It!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-way-a-rave-review-a-chance-to-win-it/) - Read my review of The Way and enter to win by Friday, March 2! I don't do a lot of movie reviews here. It's easier for me to read a book than watch a movie. I don't tend to like watching, well, much of anything. I'd rather read. The reason I agreed to watch The Way,
- [Recent Reads: Books I Loved & One Not So Much](https://www.snoringscholar.com/recent-reads-books-i-loved-one-not-so-much/) - In Defense of Sanity: The Best Essays of G.K. Chesterton I've been meaning to read more Chesterton, and wow, is this ever a great way to do that! It's a collection of 67 essays, ranging from the highly hilarious to the deeply thoughtful. It's a sampling of Chesterton that whetted my appetite and made me
- [A Closer Look at the Hail Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-closer-look-at-the-hail-mary/) - I've been working my way through the Catechism of the Catholic Church since Lent last year. At the advice of a couple of my Catechism-expert friends, I purchased the Compendium and The US Catholic Catechism for Adults for companion reading. I've been reading the sections of the Catechism that the US Catholic Catechism for Adults
- [Facing Trial, Finding Comfort, and Keeping Strong](https://www.snoringscholar.com/facing-trial-finding-comfort-and-keeping-strong/) - I reviewed Dr. Michael Norman's book, Unbridled Grace: A True Story about the Power of Choice, last week, and had the chance to ask him a few questions. Here's what he shared with me and graciously agreed to let me share with you. When evil felt the strongest, what was your comfort? Throughout our ordeal,
- [Facts and Lessons from Unbridled Grace](https://www.snoringscholar.com/facts-and-lessons-from-unbridled-grace/) - There are some things that seem too crazy to be true. The premise behind Dr. Michael Norman's book Unbridled Grace: A True Story about the Power of Choice fits easily in those categories. Dr. Norman, fresh out of college and saddled with a young family and plenty of loans, answers a classified ad that seems to
- [A Briefcase for Every Catholic](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-briefcase-for-every-catholic/) - I picked up Randy Hain's new book, The Catholic Briefcase: Tools for Integrating Faith and Work, with a lot of excitement. I've been longing for good Catholic business resources for quite some time. About 18 months ago, after my husband asked me about it, and then someone emailed me for recommendations, I compiled a list of Catholic
- [Finding the Love of God in the Beauty of the Sky](https://www.snoringscholar.com/finding-the-love-of-god-in-the-beauty-of-the-sky/) - My niece has a special appreciation for the sky. She gets it honestly, because her mother has the same appreciation. Over the years, they have influenced me. I always thought I had an appreciation of the sky—sunsets in particular—but until I started receiving the texts and pictures from them, I didn’t realize how much I
- [Valentines for Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/valentines-for-mary/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Valentine's Day is a big deal around my house. From the time she could recognize a heart, my seven-year-old has been asking me to cut them out for her. She decorates piles of them. One year, she sent them to everyone in the family. This year has been no different.
- [A Mary Moment Monday](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-mary-moment-monday/) - Yesterday, I felt as though I was carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders. Maybe it was just general exhaustion catching up with me and making me weary. Maybe the dog’s car chasing antics were the last straw. Maybe I was just having a bad day. What was that weight? Could I put
- [A Mary Moment Monday: Peace through Mercy](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-mary-moment-monday-peace-through-mercy/) - Most days -- the days when I have my iPod turned on, anyway -- I pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet by singing it. My devotion to the Divine Mercy Chaplet goes back to my early days of Catholicism, when it was included on the CD from Catholicity that I used to learn the rosary. For
- [Loose Sheep and Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/loose-sheep-and-mary/) - I was making my morning cup of tea (the cup I make after I decide that, in fact, a third carafe of coffee will be too much), talking to a good friend on the phone. I paused and gasped. Being a good friend, she asked what was wrong. I laughed. "I thought I saw the
- [Joy from Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/joy-from-mary/) - I grew up at a camp, and I could regale you for hours with tales about the adventures that brought to my childhood. I know a host of sing-along songs, and I can't see anyone with their elbows on the table without the tune to one of them starting in my head. As I grew
- [Mary on Mondays](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-on-mondays/) - Mondays have been a special Mary day for me for quite a while, most of the year, in fact, because that's when my columns at Today's Catholic Woman are usually live. There's something about starting my week with Mary. I've never been a hater of Mondays the way most of the world seems to be;
- [Expectation and Martyrs](https://www.snoringscholar.com/expectation-and-martyrs/) - There are, my calendar tells me, only four days until Christmas. It seems appropriate, then, that on December 18, the Church celebrates Mary as Our Lady of Expectation. I'm celebrating her all week. It's a title that speaks to my to-do list, to my Advent silence, to my longing for Christmas joy. She must have
- [Be a Mother to Us Now](https://www.snoringscholar.com/be-a-mother-to-us-now/) - We got the call on a country road. It was just another Sunday, the last day of our Christmas break. We were going to do this or that, watch football, clean up the house, bask and prepare for back-to-normal. But January 3rd would never be "just another Sunday" to us ever again. Normal will forever
- [The Hard Road](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-hard-road/) - Part of the Mary Moment Monday series I picture her at the side of the road, dust matting her hair, tears mixing with the noise around her. She had noise all around her: yelling and jeering, wailing and sobbing, grunting and groaning. There was nothing sterile about the experience of watching her Son -- innocent,
- [Turning to Mary on Monday](https://www.snoringscholar.com/turning-to-mary-on-monday/) - I first "met" Our Lady of Prompt Succor a year ago. I felt an immediate kinship with her, because she reminded me of beloved family in New Orleans, family I missed. When I wrote my most recent column on this title of Mary, which you'll find at Faith & Family Live, I did so without
- [Mary at Cana](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-at-cana/) - My latest column at Today's Catholic Women is on Our Lady of Mental Peace. She's a new favorite Mary of mine. I'm also over at Faith & Family Live with "Turning to Mary for Comfort." -- This week's Mary Moment Monday is inspired by a question a Facebook friend asked me recently. I am writing
- [Mary's Got My Text](https://www.snoringscholar.com/marys-got-my-text/) - Part of the Mary Moment Monday series. The unthinkable has happened. It started with an upheaval that changed some things in our family life. When my 12-year-old niece Ree showed me her collection of her dad's pictures on her phone, and then asked if she could text me, I said yes. I mean, I have
- [Hard Change](https://www.snoringscholar.com/hard-change/) - An installment of the Mary Moment Monday series. I was going to title this post "Change SUCKS," because that's just on my mind today, and has been for a few weeks. Change is fun in many ways, invigorating even. I've come to realize, though, that change causes me a lot of stress. Whether it's a
- [Looking at Mary from the Cross](https://www.snoringscholar.com/looking-at-mary-from-the-cross/) - What did they say to her, as they watched her watch her Son hanging there, dying? Did they rub her back and watch the tears, unable to hold back their own? Were they able to whisper prayers with her, or was it silent in the midst of the raucous jibing and hilarity of the soldiers?
- [Three Letters, One Word](https://www.snoringscholar.com/three-letters-one-word/) - A Mary Moment Monday post It's going to be a rough day. I knew that when I woke up, and I am not dreading it, much to my surprise. Maybe it's because I know I'm in good company; maybe I got enough rest over the weekend to prepare me; maybe I am shielded by prayer.
- [Divine Mercy and Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/divine-mercy-and-mary/) - A Mary Moment Monday post It's Easter Monday, and Sunday was quite a day (both for our family in 2010 and for the disciples 2000 years ago). In the midst of the Divine Mercy Novena and with Divine Mercy Sunday coming up next week, it seems appropriate to reflect on the message of Divine Mercy.
- [What WOULD Mary Do?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/what-would-mary-do/) - It was a strange occurrence that found me at a newsstand today, with a beautiful image of the Virgin Mary looking back at me, the words "What would Mary do?" emblazoned across the cover of Newsweek. Of course I shelled out the $6 and change to get my own copy. Of course I ignored my
- [Mary in the Silence](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-in-the-silence/) - Sometimes, I find Mary in the silence. Actually, I often find Mary in the silence. Just as I find her beside me in the midst of chaos and craziness, standing beside me and reminding me that this is my vocation, this is the joy of my life, this is the season I'm in, so I
- [The Farmhouse Path to Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-farmhouse-path-to-mar/) - My old farmhouse plays quite a role in my life. As with some of my very favorite books, it is, in fact, a character in my life. If my life was a novel like, say China Court, I might have a deeper appreciation for the high ceilings and the one-of-a-kind floors. I suspect it would
- [Ongoing Humility](https://www.snoringscholar.com/ongoing-humility/) - Part of the Mary Moment Monday series Not so long ago, I was talking to a wise woman in my life and she made an offhand comment that has stayed with me: "It takes a lot of maturity to be happy with what you have." We were having a discussion about mostly material things, and
- [Finding Her](https://www.snoringscholar.com/finding-her/) - I find her in the most unexpected places, in the most unexpected times, just when I need her. She'll be there, quiet and serene, not judging or pointing her finger. She's just waiting for the chance to hug me. And to take me to her Son, who will heal me (and hold me) as often
- [The Pentecostal Woman](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-pentecostal-woman/) - Part of the Mary Moment Monday series You probably don't think of Mary as being Pentecostal, do you? For me, the word Pentecostal evokes images that are partly hilarious and partly ridiculous. They are a caricature, based on my own wrong assumptions. When I read about the first Pentecost in Acts (starting in chapter 1,
- [Prayer for Peace](https://www.snoringscholar.com/prayer-for-peace/) - As we commemorate Memorial Day, let's join in praying for peace -- in our world, in our country, and, most importantly, in our own hearts: To Mary, who is the Mother of Mercy and omnipotent by Grace, let loving and devout appeal go up from every corner of the Earth: from noble temples and tiniest
- [Like Riding a Bike](https://www.snoringscholar.com/like-riding-a-bike/) - He was dead set against putting training wheels on the bike. "She can learn to ride it without them." Though I agreed (she rides a 700 pound pony, after all, with no balance issues), I knew that teaching this life skill wasn't in my patience parameters. He taught her, yesterday, in under an hour. With
- [A Birthday Not Celebrated](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-birthday-not-celebrated/) - A Mary Moment Monday post (Yes, I realize this is the second Mary Moment Monday post today. But this is for Susie. I wrote it yesterday and asked her permission to publish it. I hadn't heard from her this morning, so I scrapped it. She just wrote me, and told me she was touched to
- [The Many Sides of Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-many-sides-of-mary/) - A Mary Moment Monday post There's no shortage of Mary. She has, near as I can tell, an endless supply of titles and affectionate nicknames. She is the one woman who is everything to everyone, or as much as we'll let her. That makes her a little intimidating, at least to the likes of me.
- [Star of the Sea in Boston](https://www.snoringscholar.com/star-of-the-sea-in-boston/) - On this Mary Moment Monday, I have Boston on my mind. It might be that speaking engagement that's coming up for me in August (I'm almost done with my remarks and I just finished a great book that gave me lots of inspiration and ideas). It might also be that on this, the longest day
- [La Negrita and Love of Angels](https://www.snoringscholar.com/la-negrita-and-love-of-angel/) - My two-year-old can hold a conversation -- or even a decent argument -- with herself. She talks and rails, her voice inflecting and rising and changing in all the right places. The other day, while we were out in the yard as she was running from the play house to the baby pool, talking all
- [Mary in the Resting](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-in-the-resting/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I'm sure the Blessed Mother took breaks. I'm sure she paced herself, didn't overload on work, remembered her priorities. Oh, that I should be so inclined. Actually, this week, I am. Thanks to a tremendous outpouring of (unexpected!) interest in my call for summer-related guest postings, I have a week's
- [The Mary Factor](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-mary-factor/) - Part of the Mary Moment Monday series Father's Day was over a week ago, but it's still very much on my mind. Maybe it's because the piece I penned about seeing Mary in my husband is up today at Faith & Family Live. Though my husband maintains that Mother's Day is my day, I think
- [Making Do...with a Smile](https://www.snoringscholar.com/making-do-with-a-smile/) - Part of the Mary Moment Monday series I had an attack of PoorMe the other day. There was no good reason for it (but, really, is there ever?): I was just not feeling well and was watching a home improvement project take longer than usual (which is, sadly, normal with this place...we always seem to
- [Mary at the Milestones](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-at-the-milestones/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Today is a milestone day in my life as a mother. In a few hours, a big yellow bus will pull up to my driveway and my oldest daughter will board it. I'd like to be brave and not have tears coursing down my face when that moment occurs after
- [Forty](https://www.snoringscholar.com/forty/) - This Mary Moment Monday is a tribute to the guy who introduced me to my heavenly mother, who continues to lead me to her, and who has encouraged me, every step of the way, in this endeavor to share her with everyone else. Today, my Prince Charming (who has earned that title) turns 40. For
- [A September Birthday](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-september-birthday/) - Part of the Mary Moment Monday series On September 8, we celebrate the birth of the Virgin Mary. Tradition places it on this day because it's exactly nine months after the feast of the Immaculate Conception. Here in Ohio, the weather is turning cooler and the school year has started. For the last few years,
- [Small Town Life and Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/small-town-life-and-mary/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I've been writing at least weekly about Mary for quite some time, and especially with my projects in the last year, I've "met" many different titles and apparitions of the Blessed Virgin. In each of these "meetings" with Mary, I have found myself tugged and pulled and, well, changed a
- [Mama’s Apron Strings](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mamas-apron-strings/) - A Mary Moment Monday post There's been a lot of talk about pants lately. Is it better to wear pants or skirts? Do you think there's a chance of getting a tomboy to like skirts? I'm with Simcha; I'm pretty sure Mary would wear (and does wear?) pants. The post Simcha wrote detailing her reasons
- [The Broken Road](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-broken-road/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I was just beginning my study and discovery of John Paul II's Theology of the Body when Rascal Flatts released their hit song "Bless the Broken Road." The sister-in-law who lent me the CD said that the song made her think of my husband (her brother) and me. When I
- [Holding Hands](https://www.snoringscholar.com/holding-hands/) - Part of the Mary Moment Monday collection One of my favorite pictures from my wedding is of my husband and I holding hands. The picture is a close-up of our hands, and in black-and-white, it seems to boil down to the essence of what marriage means to me. It's a gripping, a clinging, a voluntary
- [Hello, Monday!](https://www.snoringscholar.com/hello-monday/) - It's Mary Moment Monday, but instead of having this post all figured out, and instead of posting what I planned to post (which included a great givewaway), I'm here with nuttin. Yep, nuttin. There's something to be said for flexibility. I'm not very good at going with the flow, and it doesn't often take much
- [Knowing What's Best](https://www.snoringscholar.com/knowing-whats-best/) - Part of the Mary Moment Monday series The feast of Mary as Mother of Divine Providence is celebrated this Friday, November 19, which coincides with the opening of a movie we've been waiting for. Forgive me for having a little chuckle...Mary and Harry Potter seem an unlikely pairing for a post, don't you think? When
- [Mary in the Craziness](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-in-the-craziness/) - A Mary Moment Monday post It's one of those weeks when there's a lot going on and I'm feeling the weight of it all. It's not just that there's Thanksgiving: we're staying home and just doing "us" this year, so I can't pretend there's pressure there. It's not just the earlier deadline with the parish
- [Lucky Seven](https://www.snoringscholar.com/lucky-seven-2/) - Part of the Mary Moment Monday series He maintains, to this day, that he never actually asked me to marry him. What he did, while we were making the Long Walk after he picked me up from the airport following my grandmother's funeral in Chicago, was reach over, a ring in his hand. Was he
- [What's next?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/whats-next/) - A Mary Moment Monday post There is a two-week window after having a baby where I go into "What's next? What's next! Whatsnextwhatsnextwhatsnext!?!?" mode. There's a joy in this mode. It reminds me of Christmas night from my youth, after opening all the presents, when I would plot and plan and imagine the possibilities of
- [Maria of Guadalupe](https://www.snoringscholar.com/maria-of-guadalupe/) - A Mary Moment Monday post A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to interview Paul Badde, author of the new book, The Face of God: The Rediscovery of the True Face of Jesus. When I was reading his bio, I couldn't help but notice that he wrote a book about Our Lady of Guadalupe,
- [Welcomed to the Family](https://www.snoringscholar.com/welcomed-to-the-family/) - Part of the Mary Moment Monday series He's held all of my children at the most important moments of their lives, within hours of their births and at their baptisms. He officiated at my wedding and, a few years before that, welcomed me into full communion with the Catholic Church by baptizing and confirming me.
- [Remembering](https://www.snoringscholar.com/remembering/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Nine days ago, it was Christmas. Nine days ago, it was a whole different year than now, 2010. Nine days ago, I began a special novena to Our Lady of Sorrows. Today is an anniversary our family will hold dear and commemorate for many years to come. It is one
- [His Entire World](https://www.snoringscholar.com/his-entire-world/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I sit in my kitchen, the chill of the morning offsetting the heat of the baby against me. A cup of coffee sits steaming on the table. As I pray in the silence, I look down and see his face. He is truly a miracle: a child prayed for, a
- [Mama’s Voice](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mamas-voice/) - Part of the Mary Moment Monday series I hear the bathroom door open, followed by the sound of a baby wailing. "Work your magic, Mama," my husband says. He sounds pretty calm, but I remember when he first did this, six years ago, with our oldest daughter. I was taking my first shower in 36
- [Reflecting on Life](https://www.snoringscholar.com/reflecting-on-life/) - a Mary Moment Monday post January 22 marked the anniversary of Roe v. Wade. It's a day dear to me for another reason, and it's made even more significant by the fact that we continue to grieve for Allen. The story of my conversion is strongly impacted by this day in January (which was January
- [Mary, Mary, Everywhere](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-mary-everwhere/) - I started these Mary Moment Monday posts in part because I'm that much of a Mary geek. I also started them to give myself the ongoing exercise of writing about Mary. I find that writing is the sort of thing that I do better when I'm in practice. Somehow, the ideas seem to flow more
- [The Daily Grind](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-daily-grind/) - a Mary Moment Monday post I do love my coffee. I once fasted from coffee for the entirety of Lent. It wasn't easy, and I'm pretty sure I complained every single day. By the end of Lent, though, I was weaned, and I had learned an important lesson: fasting is good for me. Not fasting
- [My Mary Valentine](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-mary-valentine/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I used to roll my eyes and consider Valentine's Day. What was the point? Don't get me wrong: I love chocolate. And I have recently realized that I love flowers too. Imagine my poor husband's shock when I received a random bouquet from a dear sister-in-law last year and not
- [Temporarily Small](https://www.snoringscholar.com/temporarily-small-2/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Originally published June 9, 2006, but a reminder I need with every daily battle with my current three-year-old. Something jarred me today, and I realized that although I hear the word “no” a lot (and sometimes in very strange contexts, proving she doesn’t understand it quite yet), and even though
- [Getting Past Me](https://www.snoringscholar.com/getting-past-me/) - One of the Mary Moment Monday posts A while back, Barb wrote a post about the gift of availability, which put words to many things that have been on my heart in the past few months. I did what I do when something resonates with me: I sent it to a certain friend. Then, the
- [Mary and Her Boys](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-and-he-boys/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Having a son has made me look differently at my husband. It's also made me consider St. Joseph in a new light, too. Granted, my little guy's a Joseph himself. And my husband has long been a model to me of the hard-working ethos and love-through-providing that St. Joseph must
- [Mary, My Mentor](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-my-mentor/) - A Mary Moment Monday post gomentor |ˈmenˌtôr; -tər| noun an experienced and trusted adviser : he was her friend and mentor until his death in 1915. • an experienced person in a company, college, or school who trains and counsels new employees or students. verb [ trans. ] to advise or train (someone, esp. a
- [Mary on Monday](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-on-monday/) - I had a post all ready to go. The problem is that it hasn't yet made it to the screen and it won't, at least not today. (You'll have blogging days like that, right? For that matter, you'll have blogging weeks like that!) So for Mary Moment Monday, I'm going to send you to my
- [Mary the Moon](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-the-moon/) - Part of the Mary Moment Monday series From pie slice to round globe, I often check for the moon when I'm outside at night. In the fall, it's the harvest moon. Just recently, it was what my girls called the "pink" moon. (I thought it looked more orange, myself. It had something to do with
- [Serving as Loving](https://www.snoringscholar.com/serving-as-loving/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I had to go to the back of the church to nurse the baby, so I had a clear view of the front of the church after Father's homily on Holy Thursday last week. He invited everyone forward to have their feet washed. "It's a gift you give me," he
- [Mary's Pope](https://www.snoringscholar.com/marys-pope/) - A Mary Moment Monday post My glimpse of what a truly special guy John Paul II was came while my husband and I were sitting in the living room just a few nights ago. My husband, who's of the strong and silent type about pretty much everything, had a strange look on his face as
- [Mama Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mama-mary/) - Part of my Mary Moment Monday series of posts I meant to post a tribute to my four moms yesterday, in honor of Mother's Day. I didn't, because my six-year-old and my husband conspired to surprise me in the most delightful series of ways, starting with breakfast in bed. I've been blessed, in my life,
- [May Flowers](https://www.snoringscholar.com/may-flowers/) - a Mary Moment Monday post Usually, by this time in the spring, I'm swooning over flowers. Though I've had my fair share of picked tulips, triumphantly handed to me by little hands, this year the phrase "May flowers" makes me think more of the blessings I feel showering around me. It's been a rainy spring.
- [Mrs. Jesus](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mrs-jesus/) - A Mary Moment Monday post A good friend posted on my Facebook wall the other day: Thought of you the other night when the 4 y/o mentioned "Mrs. Jesus". I asked him who that is (almost dreading the answer), and he answered very delightedly, "Jesus' mommy!" My friend is not Catholic. I don't think she
- [Blogging and Blessings](https://www.snoringscholar.com/blogging-and-blessings/) - A Mary Moment Monday post It's hard to imagine not blogging. I've been doing it for a long time, and it's become part of my regular routine. In the next couple of weeks, I have quite a number of obligations that are going to interfere with my blogging. Or maybe my blogging would interfere with
- [Prayer, the Secret to Our Success](https://www.snoringscholar.com/prayer-the-secret-to-our-success/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Last March, I tried my hand at Total Consecration to Jesus through Mary, using a $5 book and resources from Rosary Army. I feel like I mostly failed, though maybe just sticking with it to the end is a success of sorts. As with so many things in my faith
- [Mary in the Daily Grind](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-in-the-daily-grind/) - A Mary Moment Monday post It feels like we're more than halfway through the summer, but maybe that's because I had myself a wee bit busy in June and it was gone before I could blink properly. We're moved into our new house and last week I even hung pictures. I've been thinking about decorating,
- [In Real Life](https://www.snoringscholar.com/in-real-life/) - A Mary Moment Monday post You know what I love about my New Media relationships? I love when they become in real life, when the faces and voices become tangible and interactive and the subtleties of conversation happens while life pours down around us. Over the years, I've been blessed to make a number of
- [Dog Tired (and Tired Dogs)](https://www.snoringscholar.com/dog-tired-and-tired-dogs/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I never appreciated sleep as much as I do now that I have kids. I can feel, inside, how I've been stretched, pulled, reshaped by this vocation of motherhood. I'm not sure I appreciate it on Mondays when I start out feeling as tired as I am today. Dog tired,
- [Greener Pastures](https://www.snoringscholar.com/greener-pastures/) - A Mary Moment Monday post It doesn't take much for me to long to be where the grass (appears to be) greener. Every so often, though, I get a chance to actually go where the grass is greener. Like across the street. Into a brand-spankin-new (to us) house. We are still shaking our heads over
- [Celebrating Mary as Queen of Heaven](https://www.snoringscholar.com/celebrating-mary-as-queen-of-heaven/) - Part of the Mary Moment Monday series She was a tiny, wrinkled little thing. But she was beautiful, in that glowing, still way that newborns have. Maybe she wasn’t glowing; her mother was. And after holding her, so was I, though I am not — have never been — a baby person in any sense
- [Babies Don't Keep](https://www.snoringscholar.com/babies-dont-keep/) - Part of the Mary Moment Monday series It was a night that was longer and harder than any I’d had in quite a while, one where I started longing for sunrise at around 3 and dozed in 20 minute intervals. I held my hot baby’s body close to mine and made soft soothing noises, trying
- [A Corner of My Own](https://www.snoringscholar.com/a-corner-of-my-own/) - A Mary Moment Monday post In our new house, I find myself with my own room. It's a bit disconcerting, and I feel a bit guilty about it. But...I needed a place for my desk and, really, a place to do my writing work (and pay the bills). And here it is, in its very
- [My New Favorite Rosary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-new-favorite-rosary/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I can't seem to keep a rosary, especially one I love. In early August, at the Catholic Marketing Network show, I found a rosary that was so great, and when I nabbed it for $10, I was pretty sure I had a new favorite rosary. The beads were smooth and
- [Mary and My Mom](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-and-my-mom/) - A Mary Moment Monday post My relationship with Mama Mary has seemed to grow almost accidentally. Maybe I was looking for a mom when I found the Catholic Church. Maybe I was looking for more than just a mom, but I needed a mom to lead me to it. Today, as my real mom celebrates her
- [My Rosary Habit](https://www.snoringscholar.com/my-rosary-habit/) - A Mary Moment Monday post The rosary's inevitably on my mind in October. At this point, call it habit. I love that it's a yearly--and, right now, a daily--habit. And...I hate that it's a habit. There's something about it being a habit that makes it seem boring, unexciting, planned, rote. Aren't those the very things I
- [The Lessons of St. Gerard](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-lessons-of-st-gerard/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I've been receiving the Mary Vitamin via email for quite a while, and it's one of the only email subscriptions I've kept over years. It's also one of the only ones I actually read regularly. Last week, there was one titled "St. Gerard," and after I read it, I kept
- [Mary as a Model of Gratitude](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-as-a-model-of-gratitude/) - A Mary Moment Monday post It's Thanksgiving week, which means, for a number of people in the United States, that there is A LOT to get done. Not only does Advent start on Sunday (no panic here, nope, not me), but there's a meal of some sort or other to plan for Thursday. Or, if
- [Taking Some Time](https://www.snoringscholar.com/taking-some-time/) - A Mary Moment Monday post He bet me, a few weeks ago, that I couldn't spend a week offline. How did he know that I was considering that very thing? Well...here goes! I'm scheduling this post ahead of time and will be offline all week. All. Week. Long. No blogging. No blog reading. No status updating
- [Married Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/married-mary/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Today's the feast of the espousal of Mary, which means we celebrate the fact that she was married. (More about the espousal of Mary here.) It's easy to forget that Mary was a married woman. It's also easy to imagine that marriage, for Mary and Joseph, was something easy. Mary
- [Mary in the Mountains](https://www.snoringscholar.com/mary-in-the-mountains/) - A Mary Moment Monday post We were driving from the airport in Albuquerque, New Mexico, up through the mountains to Los Alamos. My husband (who was then just a really committed boyfriend) looked at me and said, a bit shocked, "You never told me it was beautiful." To an Ohio girl (or guy, for that
- [Did Mary yell at Jesus?](https://www.snoringscholar.com/did-mary-yell-at-jesus/) - A Mary Moment Monday post Did Mary yell at Jesus? I ask myself that question a lot sometimes. Like the day I started the draft of this post. I was trying to remain patient. I was doing my best to keep my voice calm. I failed. I failed big. If ever you think I am
- [Turning to Mary](https://www.snoringscholar.com/turning-to-mary/) - A Mary Moment Monday post I've struggled this winter. I've tried to stay quiet about it, because it's intensely personal and maybe a percentage of it is my imagination (or so I'd like to think). I originally blamed it on Christmas, but it didn't really stop when Christmas was over. Then my husband said something
- [Using Theology of the Body for New Evangelization](https://www.snoringscholar.com/using-theology-of-the-body-for-new-evangelization/) - In the fall of 2002, I was pregnant with my first child and a fairly new parish employee. I was tapped to drive a couple of teenagers to a neighboring town to hear Jason Evert speak. The talk was designed for teens, and though I cringe to call it a chastity talk (that just sounds so…boring, and
- [The Loveliness of a Personalized Litany](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-loveliness-of-a-personalized-litany/) - The saints have long been a special love of mine. It's just SO COOL to have a group of heroes and mentors and real-life people who are already in heaven. They weren't perfect, either. They were a colorful, often crusty bunch. As I've been reflecting on the importance of praying for others, I realized that
- [Strengthening Your Family: A Review](https://www.snoringscholar.com/strengthening-your-family-a-review/) - It probably reveals way too much about me that, a chapter or two into Marge Fenelon's new book, Strengthening Your Family: A Catholic Approach to Holiness at Home, I was struggling with feelings of inadequacy and wondering if I could hire Marge to come and mother my children. It speaks highly of this book, then, that I
- [Praying for Others Changes Me](https://www.snoringscholar.com/praying-for-others-changes-me/) - A couple of years ago, I was struck over the head with a thought that wouldn't go away: I'm supposed to pray for other people. It felt so...well, so inconsequential. I want to be a Woman of Action, a Person Who Brings Good Change, a Warrior and Adventurer. And praying? Just praying? Really, God? So I did
- [The Habit of Prayer](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-habit-of-prayer/) - Nothing has pushed me to the edge like motherhood. I’m glad I was ignorant of the amount of work and stress involved in this adventure, or I might have declined my handsome prince’s offer of marriage and run straight to the convent. (Though, that said, I’m pretty sure it’s not easier there. In fact, it’s
- [The Road Ahead](https://www.snoringscholar.com/the-road-ahead-2/) - The road pointed out to you is not a long one; you do not have to cross the seas or pierce the clouds or climb mountains to meet your God. Enter into your own soul and you will find him. St. Bernard of Clairvaux via WordofGodEveryday.com
- [Wordless Wednesday: Fashionista](https://www.snoringscholar.com/wordless-wednesday-fashionista/)

## Pages

- [Reading Lists](https://www.snoringscholar.com/book-lists/) - These are the book lists for each year, with 2006 at the bottom, and the current year at the top. Sometimes there are reviews linked, and sometimes there aren't... (sometimes I get the laundry folded, and sometimes...I don't) ;) [[26747]] [[26408]] [[25967]] [[25681]] [[16661]] [[16150]] [[15182]] [[12880]] [[9237]] [[6631]] [[4436]] [[3521]] [[3517]] [[3513]] [[3507]]
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- [Veronica Smallhorn](https://www.snoringscholar.com/tag/veronica-smallhorn/)
- [Rob Reid](https://www.snoringscholar.com/tag/rob-reid/)
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- [Amanda Lauer](https://www.snoringscholar.com/tag/amanda-lauer/)