Two or Three: When Nobody Else Comes

In our area of the world, active adult ministries are severely lacking.  This has been a huge cross for me and many in our group of friends, who grew up with a strong, active youth group and prayer group, and many opportunities for retreats, conferences, and social activities to share our faith.  Many of us have been frustrated that as we grew into adulthood, the fervour that guided our activities as youth has waned or in some cases disappeared all together.  I am not unlike many others, who have felt a desire for the community of long ago.  I and several other people at different times have tried to start new groups aimed at adult ministry, and most of them have a lot of interest in the beginning but that interest gradually fades.  It is so discouraging to remember where we came from, or to see friends in other faith communities thriving and flourishing and wonder, why don't people commit?

Empathy in Parenting

My little guy has been temperamental this week.  He's just getting over a bad cold, complete with sore throat and ear aches, and so mid-morning meltdowns have been common. He's also very adventurous, and given his disposition this week less than patient with our constant efforts to keep him safe. Two days ago from about 11:00 am on he just cried.  He did not want to be picked up or consoled or fed, just to cry.  It is a scene that has been on repeat for the past week, and with so many other activities filling up our day it can be quite frustrating.

Your Kids Are Great (so cut them some slack)

I took my kids to the dentist last week.  Since there are 6 who see the dentist plus me, this usually takes an entire morning in the dentist's office.  I always feel like wherever I go with them I bring the chaos, and am always extra sensitive to even their tiniest indiscretions.

Why I Go to Daily Mass (Even When I'm Late)

A few years ago I was so inspired by a fellow homeschooling Mom who took her kids to daily Mass every single day.  She was quick to point out that this was because in this particular season of life it was what worked for them, and to emphasize how important it is to pay attention to seasons where things like that will work (and seasons when they most likely will not).  That was some of the greatest advice ever given to me because it helped me to get daily Mass on our radar, and also gave me the comfort I needed when I couldn't make it happen - if I just acknowledge that in this particular season it is not working, I don't need to feel guilty about not going (nothing sucks the grace out of devotion quite like guilt.)