7 Quick Takes

1.  "I'm not doing anything..."

Someone LOVES the Christmas balls.

I have since redecorated my tree...

source

 
2. Since we are keeping it real...

My backyard looks like a tornado went through it - which could happen... But it was just these 2 that did it. 

3. Where's that other one of mine??

Trying to find his way to Narnia, I suppose.

4. We made time to put together a hot chocolate and cookies playdate. 

See? I am somewhat organized still. The holidays really wear me out!

5. One of my Christmas presents to me came early! 

Of course, I opened it. I've gotta get our Feast! on, hello!

6. If you are wondering what we really are up to these days...

We have taken a break from "school" this month to just be. We have enjoyed playing Legos together, reading a ton of books, and watching a bunch of old Christmas cartoons.

While I was making dinner, I realized that the house was a tad too quiet... You know, the sound that either death or destruction? Ok, maybe that is exaggerating... But, thankfully, I found the bigger 2 snuggled together watching Polar Express for the 8 millionth time.

7. How to restore that Mama Spirit

Thankfully, I have a amazing husband that knows when I need to find that peace again and let's me go do just that. I had lunch with a great friend last weekend. Just us girls. No kids. No time that we needed to be back home. And, a restaurant that didn't have to have a kid's menu. Score. It was so nice to just talk and be out and not have to do anything.

Afterwards, I got some errands done and headed to my final stop.
 

Tis the season for quiet reflection. And, if you're Catholic...confession. And, as I've said before. It's like free therapy. I got to the Church early enough that I actually sat in the super quiet that is the sanctuary and just be still. I've never actually admired all the bits and pieces of stained glass until this afternoon (and, we have been members there since...maybe 4.5 years..?). It really is quite beautiful. And, FINALLY, after all these years, I got a picture of our parish's Nativity. Love it!

BONUS: Gotta love Gandalf! (turn your volume up. Sir Ian is soft-spoken when he isn't a wizard)

 

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Christmas Slide Show - Enjoy!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 

Make sure to have your speakers on!

Note: If you have trouble viewing, click here! Enjoy the show :)

Good Reads {Link Love}

I usually share a link here and there to another blog post that I found to be really helpful in one way or another. But, with the holiday season, moms (and dads) seem to be in that rushed mode to get things done before the 25th. Luckily, there are a handful of parents out there that have posted something wonderful to read at just the right time.

Most of the days as a mama of 3 is great, but there are a few days dotted here and there where I wonder if the "ripped-all-my-hair-out" style will ever catch on and be on the cover of InStyle. That would be nice. Haha!

So, if you are a mama in need of a bit of encouragement, prayers, etc - or maybe you just want to make sure you aren't the only worn out mom, read on. There are some great posts that have really hit home with me. You might not think you're perfect, but your kids do. And, that's all that really matters.

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To the Mamas of Littles During the Holidays (Vita Familiae)

The Tired Mother's Holiday Creed (Lisa-Jo Baker)

I Linger a Little Bit Longer (The B That Keeps Us Honest)

It’s Going to be Hard – and that’s OK (The Power of Moms)

A Magnificat for Tired Moms (Catholic Mom)

I Know I Can’t Do it All, So Why do I Feel Like I’m Failing? (Joy Comes in the Morning)

18 Tips for Instant Energy (And then We Saved)

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And for your viewing pleasure, check out these YouTube videos. Remember to view these on the actual webpage or on YouTube - not through email. Enjoy!

Pentatonix: The Little Drummer Boy - AMAZING!!!

BLACKFRIAR MUSIC: "Come My Way" I am LOVING all of the Catholic stuff coming out in more and more areas of social media. This song is amazing! Enjoy!

The Brothers in Black

Meet the Brothers In Black. These two are so great! I found about them through Catholic Mom. Thanks!

How great is that? LOL If you aren't Catholic and/or don't really understand the whole "confession thing," then read my post on my recent experience here. Good stuff.

Lambeau Leap into the Crowd

The Pack's version of Party Rock Anthem! Awesome :)

We Are Catholic

I saw a wonderful video on "O Beauty Ever Ancient, Ever New" that I wanted to share with you. The description reads:

We Are Catholic.
It isn't something we 'do', it is who WE ARE.
We are something positive, wonderful, and special.
We are loyal to the Church, to the Pope, our tradition, and our God.


Hopefully this video will do its small part in leading you towards the truth of the One True Faith. I pray that it gives you hope and fills you with joy. Please share it or use it for educational and evangelization purposes!

Enjoy!