tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5413272017140246442024-03-13T18:03:31.028+08:00Everything is Grace"Everything is a grace, everything is the direct effect of our Father's love—difficulties, contradictions, humiliations, all the soul's miseries, her burdens, her needs - everything, because through them, she learns humility, realizes her weakness - Everything is a grace because everything is God's gift. Whatever be the character of life or its unexpected events—to the heart that loves, all is well." -St. Therese LisieuxWeenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-25258240228248935192023-07-18T18:26:00.000+08:002023-07-18T18:26:05.557+08:00 Praying Together as a Family: Building a Strong Spiritual Foundation<p></p><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: black;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw1TAYx6Sj5nJ_ZkRhFpVoVPSuOLQVyn6G3rPslmyDpQ1IWVTVET0eE1L5lAKMsGN8cLJiL-IErj_Sw9I03SE2Md2_adqDfCi6tMLyJByTChVzdfyFLrSiLgXOMfdQX3IBaadc2vSSMBdninOUL4Z0hnnuE6nk1xVkGkBK8zdvGVwG-YT-Z1HRL_3QCY3F/s2240/1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw1TAYx6Sj5nJ_ZkRhFpVoVPSuOLQVyn6G3rPslmyDpQ1IWVTVET0eE1L5lAKMsGN8cLJiL-IErj_Sw9I03SE2Md2_adqDfCi6tMLyJByTChVzdfyFLrSiLgXOMfdQX3IBaadc2vSSMBdninOUL4Z0hnnuE6nk1xVkGkBK8zdvGVwG-YT-Z1HRL_3QCY3F/w640-h360/1.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-653c2e25-7fff-977f-6eae-c1d7bef09105"></span></p><h2 style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;">Have you been pondering the importance of establishing a strong spiritual foundation for the well-being and growth of your families? In this blog, you will find practical tips and ideas on how to integrate prayer into your family's daily routine and establish a deep and lasting connection with God. Regardless of whether you have young children, teenagers, or a combination of both, there are methods to make prayer an organic and delightful aspect of your family life. So, let's dive in and explore the power of praying together as a family!</span></span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><h3 style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.75in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span dir="LTR"></span><span style="color: black;">Schedule
family prayer time: Set aside a specific time each day or week for family
prayer. This could be in the morning, before bed, or on a designated day of the
week.<o:p></o:p></span></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"> </span></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAh3eocHKZDmfP_pn5hmyx0EYRgxLKds37LbUlmNz1dh-z-fQCmTJqSzopmWD1HQOQ2E00jluE-JXcP0H6WS241MwHX1RQAKvl-rPAjjUcEx1edp6y1hNjsIcGdmSqP59ywVOztwl7sWYLYCD-IkLrkQNRhGWmtGiKboP7woivlddlJrY3_tmAwhZ2nErY/s2240/2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAh3eocHKZDmfP_pn5hmyx0EYRgxLKds37LbUlmNz1dh-z-fQCmTJqSzopmWD1HQOQ2E00jluE-JXcP0H6WS241MwHX1RQAKvl-rPAjjUcEx1edp6y1hNjsIcGdmSqP59ywVOztwl7sWYLYCD-IkLrkQNRhGWmtGiKboP7woivlddlJrY3_tmAwhZ2nErY/w400-h225/2.png" width="400" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;">The way families incorporate prayer into their routines can
vary depending on the age of their children. For families with young children,
shorter evening prayers may be more suitable. They could also start the day
with a simple "Hello, Good morning Jesus" prayer with either mom or
dad. Another option could be incorporating prayer into naptime routines.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;">
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h3 style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.75in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span dir="LTR"></span><span style="color: black;">Begin
with short prayers: Start with simple prayers that are easy for everyone to
remember and participate in. This could include saying grace before meals or
reciting the Our Father and Hail Mary.<o:p></o:p></span></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"> </span></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.75in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;">Consider acquiring a family prayer book or individual ones
for each of your children, if possible. Alternatively, you could print out the
essential Catholic prayers and display them near your family altar. This will
serve as a valuable resource for your children to memorize these prayers, especially
for those who can already read. During your family prayer sessions, designate a
child to recite one of the basic Catholic prayers.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h3 style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.75in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span dir="LTR"></span><span style="color: black;">Pray
before meals: Incorporate a prayer before each meal as a way to come together
as a family and express gratitude for the food and blessings in your lives.<o:p></o:p></span></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"> </span></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpK2QTnBDd2dkyKDz7lvhjx45_9JmJiSgRG-FdX-Sg4gODEc-Hp5JzmbhYBqk1nRa9pnPRPBK4LXDZZ-y99qT8qHCTZPKXvPbZFz9ZQ3805w3bSL5OuoyPMYo65fqyG5nuneTJ-7YYaCJDeigG2V9NceynJ4hwaefhszXkz8p2Q-9A23pKhdCihgJ5NqLi/s2240/3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpK2QTnBDd2dkyKDz7lvhjx45_9JmJiSgRG-FdX-Sg4gODEc-Hp5JzmbhYBqk1nRa9pnPRPBK4LXDZZ-y99qT8qHCTZPKXvPbZFz9ZQ3805w3bSL5OuoyPMYo65fqyG5nuneTJ-7YYaCJDeigG2V9NceynJ4hwaefhszXkz8p2Q-9A23pKhdCihgJ5NqLi/w400-h225/3.png" width="400" /></a></span></div><p style="text-align: left;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></o:p></p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.75in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;">You can say the traditional Prayer Before Meals or ask a
family member to lead a short ‘from the heart’ prayer. </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h3 style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.75in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span dir="LTR"></span><span style="color: black;">Let the
children hear your prayers for them: Take the time to pray over your children,
expressing your love and hopes for them. This not only strengthens their faith
but also shows them the importance of prayer.<o:p></o:p></span></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"> </span></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.75in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;">In addition, make sure to consistently express your
gratitude to God for their presence in your life. Furthermore, take the time to
acknowledge and appreciate the numerous virtues and positive qualities that you
observe in them.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"> </span></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.75in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;">Sharing your hopes and aspirations for your children not
only demonstrates your trust in the Lord and your commitment to seeking His
guidance in parenting, but it also helps them understand the power of
intercession.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"> </span></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.75in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;">Say what’s in your heart and include a fruit or gift of the
Holy Spirit or a virtue you want your children to practice. For older children,
it may go something like this:</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"><span style="color: black;">Dear God, I want to express the deepest desires of my
heart, which are rooted in love and guided by the teachings of the Holy Spirit.
As a parent, I strive to instill in my children the virtues of kindness,
patience, and self-control.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"><span style="color: black;">Firstly, I wish for my children to embody the gift of
kindness. Just as a ripe and juicy apple nourishes the body, kindness nourishes
the soul. I hope they will always extend a helping hand to those in need,
treating others with compassion and empathy.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"><span style="color: black;">Secondly, I pray that my children embrace the gift of
patience. Like a seedling growing into a fruitful tree, patience allows for
personal growth and understanding. I want them to learn the importance of
waiting, to be patient with themselves and others, and to have faith that
everything unfolds in its own perfect time.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"> <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span></span></o:p><span style="font-family: Quicksand;">Lastly, I hope my children cultivate the virtue of
self-control, similar to the <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>discipline it takes to resist the temptation of a
delicious dessert. Self-control <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>empowers them to make wise choices, to resist
impulsive behavior, and to <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>develop a strong sense of integrity.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"> <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span></span></o:p><span style="font-family: Quicksand;">In my heart, I hold these aspirations for my children,
knowing that by practicing <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>these fruits of the Holy Spirit and virtues, they
will lead fulfilling and purposeful <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>lives. Amen</span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"> </span></o:p></p>
<h3 style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.75in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span dir="LTR"></span><span style="color: black;">Pray
over them: In addition to praying for your children, physically lay hands on
them and pray for their well-being, protection, and guidance.<o:p></o:p></span></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"> </span></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGum-YIR2jbZ7R17tW01fBotoK2GLfhruC4A95WA64kA-gXmhUrAlso8xwydgnjieGnUu7recuilT8unRtZBDQiPCkR2tp5AFWbuxjS_-dflzIYy8vQuFaE3zEpdDROxx-l_yz5OGlyGfWvBO9jNq8LGQ6bgpcy6UhlV7k6ADTzMaWnBvBtyLa3PBJSaFY/s2240/4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGum-YIR2jbZ7R17tW01fBotoK2GLfhruC4A95WA64kA-gXmhUrAlso8xwydgnjieGnUu7recuilT8unRtZBDQiPCkR2tp5AFWbuxjS_-dflzIYy8vQuFaE3zEpdDROxx-l_yz5OGlyGfWvBO9jNq8LGQ6bgpcy6UhlV7k6ADTzMaWnBvBtyLa3PBJSaFY/w400-h225/4.png" width="400" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p>
<h3 style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.75in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span dir="LTR"></span><span style="color: black;">Teach
young children the Guardian Angel Prayer: Help young children learn and recite
the Guardian Angel Prayer, which is a simple prayer asking for protection and
guidance from their guardian angel.<o:p></o:p></span></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h3 style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.75in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span dir="LTR"></span><span style="color: black;">Understand
why we pray as a family: Explain to your children the importance of praying
together as a family. Emphasize that it helps to grow in faith together and
builds stronger relationships with each other and with God.<o:p></o:p></span></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.75in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;">Younger children may not always enjoy sitting still and
participating in family prayer, but it is important to encourage them and allow
them to have some freedom of movement or hold onto a favorite toy. Over time,
they will gradually be able to join in for longer periods of time. Additionally,
if young children are involved, consider having shorter prayers that last
around 5 to 10 minutes.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"> </span></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.75in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;">For older children and pre-teens, a great way to make
family prayer time shorter is to ask them to compose a short prayer that they
can read aloud. This eliminates the need for them to pause and think about what
to say, making the prayer time more efficient.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;">
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h3 style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.75in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">8.<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span dir="LTR"></span><span style="color: black;">Get
teens praying with the family: Encourage teenagers to participate in family
prayer by allowing them to lead prayers, choose readings, or share their own
intentions. Make prayer a time for open discussion and reflection.</span></span></h3><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;">
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsOYkZkCqec5htY2EPquI98eMWDKWiAbi2hPCS-AHjr2lZ-YzHT85MX6MFl0rzmB4ueujAnYy1KaRqTnLxuOkB1er-JJJqxDxWjnch7L-c9bPxXKQwf9wG0h-tePEPRcE1Pf8EKWXe5R_DRqMKifPWF-_vX1Zii7jHvBjLs3zCfhwUXHgjENjFon1FgFiF/s2240/5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsOYkZkCqec5htY2EPquI98eMWDKWiAbi2hPCS-AHjr2lZ-YzHT85MX6MFl0rzmB4ueujAnYy1KaRqTnLxuOkB1er-JJJqxDxWjnch7L-c9bPxXKQwf9wG0h-tePEPRcE1Pf8EKWXe5R_DRqMKifPWF-_vX1Zii7jHvBjLs3zCfhwUXHgjENjFon1FgFiF/w400-h225/5.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p>
<h3 style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.75in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">9.<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span dir="LTR"></span><span style="color: black;">Pray in
different settings: Find opportunities to pray as a family in various settings,
such as in the car before heading off somewhere or during a long car ride. This
can help make prayer a natural part of everyday life.</span></span></h3><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;">
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8VBj9KmCX9Wngst1gUvirAtKMjk_o8hZ3JwjMeL-M8Eyp4vJiMrsBbMeZu_UdBFuWcXP9cFL_QAPBZbCF6ZLvhcxiAZ-m8bgEbbyJPOmtqgF05r7ynVPhHbUOR15DCYvKDNEHkM_o9sgpUkjhBIUqZJZ1E_zptQFQiDNoJmDanSBicGOdNy9iWGdRMvu9/s2240/6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8VBj9KmCX9Wngst1gUvirAtKMjk_o8hZ3JwjMeL-M8Eyp4vJiMrsBbMeZu_UdBFuWcXP9cFL_QAPBZbCF6ZLvhcxiAZ-m8bgEbbyJPOmtqgF05r7ynVPhHbUOR15DCYvKDNEHkM_o9sgpUkjhBIUqZJZ1E_zptQFQiDNoJmDanSBicGOdNy9iWGdRMvu9/w400-h225/6.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p>
<h3 style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.75in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">10.<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span dir="LTR"></span><span style="color: black;">Listen
to podcast prayers and follow along: Explore podcasts or online resources that
provide guided prayers or reflections. This can be a helpful tool for families
to pray together, especially if they are new to praying as a family or looking
for different prayer experiences.<o:p></o:p></span></span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"> </span></o:p></p>
<p></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;">Here are
some Apps you may want to try.</span></span></p><p></p></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p><span> </span></o:p></span><a href="https://amenapp.org/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Quicksand;">AMEN <span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span></span></a><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"> </span><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"> </span></p><p></p></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"><span style="color: black;"><a href=" https://catholicapps.com/laudate/" target="_blank">Laudate</a></span></span><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"> </span><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"> </span><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"> </span></p><p></p></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><a href="https://pray-as-you-go.org/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Quicksand;">Pray-As-You-Go </span></a><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: Quicksand; text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="font-family: Quicksand; text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span></p><p></p></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.thedivinemercy.org/apps" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Quicksand;">DivineMercy App and Mary App</span></a></p><p></p></blockquote></blockquote><p> <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><a href="https://hallow.com/partner/?referrer=blessedisshe&_branch_match_id=1199291148773068466&utm_source=Unpaid%20Promoter&utm_campaign=blessedisshe&utm_medium=blog&_branch_referrer=H4sIAAAAAAAAA8soKSkottLXz0jMyckv10ssKNDLyczL1jdzMvY0L8gw9M9PAgCkpKHiIwAAAA%3D%3D" style="font-family: Quicksand;" target="_blank">Hallow</a></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/magnificat-us-edition/id363526415" style="text-indent: 0.5in;" target="_blank">Magnificat</a></span></p><p></p></blockquote></blockquote><p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 1in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"><span style="color: black;">Podcasts to try on Spotify:</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"><span style="color: black;">Catholic Morning Offering Podcast</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1.0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"><u><span style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/04ceROEXmgE5wtosWEkauW?si=e2ca587952e046f5">https://open.spotify.com/show/04ceROEXmgE5wtosWEkauW?si=e2ca587952e046f5</a></span></u><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"><span style="color: black;">Catholic Prayers for Everyday</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1.0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"><u><span style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1T0gcG6P6pTx4Tm8n5OSJv?si=0f0e6c9f27244f46">https://open.spotify.com/show/1T0gcG6P6pTx4Tm8n5OSJv?si=0f0e6c9f27244f46</a></span></u><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1.0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"><span style="color: black;">Pray More Novenas</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1.0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"><u><span style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/3WTqdE25MVhLG1p6qV84X2?si=25e534150f3a4123">https://open.spotify.com/show/3WTqdE25MVhLG1p6qV84X2?si=25e534150f3a4123</a></span></u><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span> </span><span> <span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand;">S</span></span></span><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;">o, are you ready to start praying together as a family? Take the <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>challenge and commit to making it a priority in your household. Set </span></span><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: large; white-space-collapse: preserve;">aside <span> </span><span> </span><span> t</span></span><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: large; white-space-collapse: preserve;">ime each day or week to come together and seek God's </span><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: large; white-space-collapse: preserve;">presence. </span><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: large; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: large; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: large; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: large; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: large; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: large; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Remember, a strong spiritual foundation starts with unity </span><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: large; white-space-collapse: preserve;">in prayer.</span></p><div><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span> </span><span> <span> Here's a little something to help you along the way...</span></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span><span> </span> </span><span> <span> </span>Download my FREE Printable Basic Catholic Prayers. You can print them <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>out in A4 size and use as posters, or you may use the multipage printing <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>option to print 1/4 sized prayer cards to laminate and bind together.</span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"> <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xqAS1xWhycchct-LsOabEv1HH25SgI62/view?usp=drive_link" target="_blank"> Basic Catholic Prayers (Classical Imagery)</a></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: medium;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"> <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-OvRvcU9pdi_QWL_tpFWrt6l3Nh4ZcXe/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Basic Catholic Prayers (Simple Geometric style)</a><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-OvRvcU9pdi_QWL_tpFWrt6l3Nh4ZcXe/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank"><br /></a></span></span><p></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-b3ef2660-7fff-c9cf-2742-a6c95874af62"><br /></span></div>Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-51802064272689949262023-07-13T05:04:00.002+08:002023-07-13T13:59:30.333+08:00Raising Catholic Kids: 10 Tips and Strategies for Instilling The Faith<p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN3bzfXD22LsaxoKVkEbf-AWYWq4dzdPOPvQGmS_9RznggGCglI25vCa2v4EWnBn51j2D1E6lON-a__4FGuwifpSz0Ek1ch2LrgzQ90OIekls1xFJ4ArdtS36l8BLIeEztWO0TIp9y1X-8_mNBAt-hQq1VufpJIUEthKAyYMhS42jrZ_LMwGGGhxkXsNpr/s2240/Raising%20Catholic%20Kids%2010%20Tips%20and%20Strategies%20for%20Instilling%20The%20Faith.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN3bzfXD22LsaxoKVkEbf-AWYWq4dzdPOPvQGmS_9RznggGCglI25vCa2v4EWnBn51j2D1E6lON-a__4FGuwifpSz0Ek1ch2LrgzQ90OIekls1xFJ4ArdtS36l8BLIeEztWO0TIp9y1X-8_mNBAt-hQq1VufpJIUEthKAyYMhS42jrZ_LMwGGGhxkXsNpr/w640-h360/Raising%20Catholic%20Kids%2010%20Tips%20and%20Strategies%20for%20Instilling%20The%20Faith.png" width="640" /></a></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-size: small;">Raising children in the Catholic faith is a beautiful and rewarding journey. As parents, we have the incredible opportunity to guide our children in their spiritual growth and help them develop a strong foundation in their relationship with God. While it may seem challenging at times, there are many tips and strategies that can make this journey a joyful and fulfilling one. In this article, we will explore ten practical ways to instill the Catholic faith in our children, creating a strong and lasting bond with God that will guide them throughout their lives.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-656818fe-7fff-e32d-f677-2278239e9815"><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Attend Mass regularly: Make attending Mass a priority for your family. </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Encourage your children to actively participate in the Mass by singing hymns, </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">following along with the readings, and paying attention during the homily.</span></p></li></ol><div><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuWOYFJpfmEplfz_LuP3HuC5HLlFaLAEiGcpDL1XpFMllgVOYBGgx_imOkrNs_3XYshR2XOPWeST5X_YjabCGaVi3bTInbMLiwz9MhwCgCCEdd35sRB1YxEVDgHXYS8H5248LFNasoHVP2UIjQHtg6aP0NqAmAKw1aVEQQd-DMnTHUJooyrJD4UTzwmK6c/s2240/2.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuWOYFJpfmEplfz_LuP3HuC5HLlFaLAEiGcpDL1XpFMllgVOYBGgx_imOkrNs_3XYshR2XOPWeST5X_YjabCGaVi3bTInbMLiwz9MhwCgCCEdd35sRB1YxEVDgHXYS8H5248LFNasoHVP2UIjQHtg6aP0NqAmAKw1aVEQQd-DMnTHUJooyrJD4UTzwmK6c/w400-h225/2.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /></div></span><span><ol start="2" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Pray together as a family: Set aside time each day to pray together as a family.</span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">This can include saying the Rosary, reading Scripture, or simply offering up intentions.</span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">By praying together, you are teaching your children the importance of a personal </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">relationship with God.</span></p></li></ol><div><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3kSqCAuDQb94JreZ-P3awNCzIfPOPSBggowHbQ9XhknCfvJnblAVQJZEBV-FglD2wqt-A-2DqlMVkS4Dz8AYzzmoz5dY_WiC0qt3V9uSN-BY5bW2wgVYZCxCZqfwy2FrOA3zhGspTwzXsOo_hzVoidgQvnKSg8aEzMLI4xqaMYUl-VuqaX0xBfOp8EoLW/s2240/3.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3kSqCAuDQb94JreZ-P3awNCzIfPOPSBggowHbQ9XhknCfvJnblAVQJZEBV-FglD2wqt-A-2DqlMVkS4Dz8AYzzmoz5dY_WiC0qt3V9uSN-BY5bW2wgVYZCxCZqfwy2FrOA3zhGspTwzXsOo_hzVoidgQvnKSg8aEzMLI4xqaMYUl-VuqaX0xBfOp8EoLW/w400-h225/3.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /></div></span><span><ol start="3" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Teach them about the sacraments: Explain the significance of the sacraments</span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">to your children and help them understand the grace that comes through these </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">sacramental encounters with God. Take them to confession regularly and involve </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">them in the preparation for receiving their first Holy Communion and Confirmation.</span></p></li></ol><div><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSAdx4j_xgL2bZEfq8_JIGm9rR0MKolW-JEjYxcEU087vsDW2CrfLjxYk735AhBFVukK0vIdBrbmG4xRkUkLWrtLai2Mry1_lXP71YLObg1idafZDLpq0NGWbCu6kQzREB1bLtTldoGiIOuHIYvq1xh5JQw15nk16i9lJSh0eXxOO5qSSdzWQy5bnuLDpL/s2240/4.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSAdx4j_xgL2bZEfq8_JIGm9rR0MKolW-JEjYxcEU087vsDW2CrfLjxYk735AhBFVukK0vIdBrbmG4xRkUkLWrtLai2Mry1_lXP71YLObg1idafZDLpq0NGWbCu6kQzREB1bLtTldoGiIOuHIYvq1xh5JQw15nk16i9lJSh0eXxOO5qSSdzWQy5bnuLDpL/w400-h225/4.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span><span><ol start="4" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Share stories of the saints: Introduce your children to the lives of the saints and </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">their inspiring stories of faith. Encourage them to choose a patron saint and learn </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">about their life and virtues. This can help them develop a personal connection to the </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">faith and provide role models to emulate.</span></p></li></ol><div><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvvnx9v1BrEmRZleh_tKzUaXgGhwZ4irmBbyvvRbYHYQ9ElPBe8-wq8w1gOBhARE-MdRkSQeVpASx5zaJjh1-VrJr2SzudyFXaI8bPTQ6VvkB5_3yrtc131h4uVAR74Inieay6_XTXJkR3pJKPXyJyY1Thuv3csQzGyPL3NalOjYMwO0agtRsJ-Np-ty8W/s2240/5.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvvnx9v1BrEmRZleh_tKzUaXgGhwZ4irmBbyvvRbYHYQ9ElPBe8-wq8w1gOBhARE-MdRkSQeVpASx5zaJjh1-VrJr2SzudyFXaI8bPTQ6VvkB5_3yrtc131h4uVAR74Inieay6_XTXJkR3pJKPXyJyY1Thuv3csQzGyPL3NalOjYMwO0agtRsJ-Np-ty8W/w400-h225/5.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span><span><ol start="5" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Emphasize the importance of service: Teach your children about the importance of </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">serving others, especially those in need. Engage in volunteer activities as a family, </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">such as visiting the elderly, serving at a soup kitchen, or participating in parish </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">outreach programs. This helps instill the value of compassion and selflessness.</span></p></li></ol><div><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrTdvF058JkdTLEiZ28epfnVf5Jh73Di8P73W_ATrjnL7siSVcRsgDNu7l4yDTTr95auN_5YTtkexWF4P4P7G5Jb9XZ5EjeAqSmCArWGog_HdjPkdGSv8ocRLbGcYKLCCzMvWKApgVQhrmjiD4YrJD-lXsHGpQuXB8ygXSVRiSmXourLS1rfGPA_J0OpCS/s2240/6.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrTdvF058JkdTLEiZ28epfnVf5Jh73Di8P73W_ATrjnL7siSVcRsgDNu7l4yDTTr95auN_5YTtkexWF4P4P7G5Jb9XZ5EjeAqSmCArWGog_HdjPkdGSv8ocRLbGcYKLCCzMvWKApgVQhrmjiD4YrJD-lXsHGpQuXB8ygXSVRiSmXourLS1rfGPA_J0OpCS/w400-h225/6.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span><span><ol start="6" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Encourage regular Confession: Teach your children the importance of regularly confessing </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">their sins and seeking God's forgiveness. Help them understand the healing and grace </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">that comes from the sacrament of Reconciliation. Set a good example by going to </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Confession yourself and sharing your experiences with them.</span></p></li></ol><div><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKp7awvSc9wYZy2E3EbhdwZ-Ab6D3vkT5WCZ57sRpO_7ToVpseHqbwdT8Lk2LOkn8q4u9Xq-XYipGyTVPcw7O6wACpK7ygOAAooadXxVMDhTtV4nTQrciznBdyilEN3CRYKVV0tXUqp-u_QDHokS2BflcALCUuYGPGp6SPDG8qMLw0gBKZn0nMxfngyRWu/s2240/7.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKp7awvSc9wYZy2E3EbhdwZ-Ab6D3vkT5WCZ57sRpO_7ToVpseHqbwdT8Lk2LOkn8q4u9Xq-XYipGyTVPcw7O6wACpK7ygOAAooadXxVMDhTtV4nTQrciznBdyilEN3CRYKVV0tXUqp-u_QDHokS2BflcALCUuYGPGp6SPDG8qMLw0gBKZn0nMxfngyRWu/w400-h225/7.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span><span><ol start="7" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Foster a love for Scripture: Read and discuss Bible stories with your children, </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">emphasizing the teachings and lessons found within. Encourage them to develop </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">a habit of reading the Bible on their own as they grow older. This helps them </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">understand the Word of God and its relevance in their lives.</span></p></li></ol><div><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibA4S0pJKu2F1CJ9j2jt9ilEcnQ9vIzIvqtZR4ChzS9cJLQvm7mT_rZXs8B133Bws_1-wlaTQXWUV_9FOLd75eCd2rTNl7Lu7XoSKe93CKe5wT3_zpgWhrUw8tHp9V34F_jEZAtZwO-YA53MKi9nqEjpAIXLfViIEG_Di35Lo7HIx9Fn_HSs5NYLQqsNHB/s2240/8.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibA4S0pJKu2F1CJ9j2jt9ilEcnQ9vIzIvqtZR4ChzS9cJLQvm7mT_rZXs8B133Bws_1-wlaTQXWUV_9FOLd75eCd2rTNl7Lu7XoSKe93CKe5wT3_zpgWhrUw8tHp9V34F_jEZAtZwO-YA53MKi9nqEjpAIXLfViIEG_Di35Lo7HIx9Fn_HSs5NYLQqsNHB/w400-h225/8.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span><span><ol start="8" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Create a Catholic home environment: Surround your home with symbols of the </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Catholic faith, such as crucifixes, religious artwork, and statues. Displaying these </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">reminders of the faith can help create a Catholic atmosphere and serve as </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">visual reminders of God's presence.</span></p></li></ol><div><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0_6fvHbtrYLET5jGTjBQ5R6Fum_FYjwRuL5W23bAizqAMGV-t5ZmY-F-zCByPrkf5330gVPGqVFPnfSG8UWlbV1m3VkScGYAxJyMdxwXsVuLJqt6BXgXQJvR-bf9da6Y3KTVfy2txbuc_D-1gbter7VlA4TGDHL3i-iDZdHeVELilnH08t50xz7riY8Jt/s2240/9.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0_6fvHbtrYLET5jGTjBQ5R6Fum_FYjwRuL5W23bAizqAMGV-t5ZmY-F-zCByPrkf5330gVPGqVFPnfSG8UWlbV1m3VkScGYAxJyMdxwXsVuLJqt6BXgXQJvR-bf9da6Y3KTVfy2txbuc_D-1gbter7VlA4TGDHL3i-iDZdHeVELilnH08t50xz7riY8Jt/w400-h225/9.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span><span><ol start="9" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Encourage involvement in the Church community: Encourage your children to </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">actively participate in their parish community. This can include joining youth groups, </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">altar serving, participating in parish events, attending Catechism classes or volunteering </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">for various ministries. Involvement in the Church community helps foster a sense of </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">belonging and a deeper understanding of the faith.</span></p></li></ol><div><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjddLtecTifwBNaPwqy2EYL3VBeWUVO0Kehn5cEK3_gn7hCsfDCCU_aLg0izkm1U6B6TSBhxqlJyVXVBWohfpEF2F3yVcsXQlCBYnYktu9LoS1xQLzvImS-mPrkPfJzD6mXOPEjY6ineo-dhFoHthKUq6v8XIxrN9tFkZrkkA-EQzAnGSEibZHQKdJn5wUm/s2240/10.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjddLtecTifwBNaPwqy2EYL3VBeWUVO0Kehn5cEK3_gn7hCsfDCCU_aLg0izkm1U6B6TSBhxqlJyVXVBWohfpEF2F3yVcsXQlCBYnYktu9LoS1xQLzvImS-mPrkPfJzD6mXOPEjY6ineo-dhFoHthKUq6v8XIxrN9tFkZrkkA-EQzAnGSEibZHQKdJn5wUm/w400-h225/10.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span><span><ol start="10" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Be a positive role model: Live out your faith authentically and be a positive role model for </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">your children. Show them what it means to live a Catholic life by practicing virtues such </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">as love, forgiveness, and humility. Your actions speak louder than words, and your </span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">children will learn from your example.</span></p></li></ol><div><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-795c3d8a-7fff-57d5-0ef1-2a6f916d38c5"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD9nR0RT48574p7gA3IYSl1lqPvUiq3ZrykpDPxZaVE8LruYMMJE53NFsHKl2MvjaQhv1wigdm5H9EI_wlUHq8qxn8b12nN7BQFiFVXzVF2g7igAhztTxWm7iVNpYauTeyPSXWCrGY08Afyal6AZucVAtiZImJnAlBunqUP66uvEe7HUYC7QK5nemlIf87/s2240/11.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD9nR0RT48574p7gA3IYSl1lqPvUiq3ZrykpDPxZaVE8LruYMMJE53NFsHKl2MvjaQhv1wigdm5H9EI_wlUHq8qxn8b12nN7BQFiFVXzVF2g7igAhztTxWm7iVNpYauTeyPSXWCrGY08Afyal6AZucVAtiZImJnAlBunqUP66uvEe7HUYC7QK5nemlIf87/w400-h225/11.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Quicksand;"><div><br /></div></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Remember that instilling the Catholic faith in your children is a lifelong journey. Be patient, consistent, and loving in your approach, and trust in the power of God's grace to guide your children on their spiritual path.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a166cbec-7fff-93b9-8e86-99f62bdf05be"></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Quicksand;">What strategies have you found effective in instilling the Catholic faith in your children? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below. Let's support and inspire each other in raising strong Catholic kids!</span></span></p><div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span>Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-14255969648248072252023-05-23T17:14:00.000+08:002023-05-23T17:14:33.054+08:00Celebrating The Feast of St. Philip Neri As A Family<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH_a2sIzWiKNYJjjWrg3aoSSTku3PnHrREqdI5X5pvqh7ruS37SKyopZa6kyGggya-ROptCRvLyX3GkcZssg433qxHgasb1nJdfriLeOGe9MQBZ_ZkP52vgj-bT_s2yVzw1jdp3PN6q1RdCYZbFm4FLwLr2p70ZBHOhXivYB-ji7aInMNuxuIW1jgFBw/s2240/St.%20Philip%20Neri%20(Blog%20Banner).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH_a2sIzWiKNYJjjWrg3aoSSTku3PnHrREqdI5X5pvqh7ruS37SKyopZa6kyGggya-ROptCRvLyX3GkcZssg433qxHgasb1nJdfriLeOGe9MQBZ_ZkP52vgj-bT_s2yVzw1jdp3PN6q1RdCYZbFm4FLwLr2p70ZBHOhXivYB-ji7aInMNuxuIW1jgFBw/w640-h360/St.%20Philip%20Neri%20(Blog%20Banner).png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">We haven't been really celebrating Saints' feasts lately because we have just been reading about their lives. Its different when you have toddlers or preschoolers at home, you need to really come up with various activities to get them interested. When our son turned 8 last year, we had less and less craft or cooking activities at home. But then, he began to read less and less about the saints too. We began to celebrate the other feasts, solemnities and memorials less too. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">So in order to still celebrate these wonderful events in the vibrant life of our Church, I have decided to post more blogs about celebrating these feasts and solemnities at home. I will also try to include activities for each member of the family, including pre-teens and teens. Please pray for me so I may be able to do this for God's Glory and for you.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Since the feast of St. Philip Neri is coming up on May 26, I have rounded up some resources and activities for the day.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>We always start with a story.</b> Its a good way to start, don't you agree? Our resource for this since last year is <a href="https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2023-05-26" target="_blank">Catholic Culture</a>. This website actually has everything, from Mass readings, Saints' feasts, the collect prayer for that day, recipes and activities for whatever our Church is celebrating on that day.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">So here, we will read about the life of St. Philip Neri. I also have a couple of books at home which I used, to read to my once toddler. This one particular book is The Book of Saints by Fr. Lovasik, SVD , a St. Joseph Picture Book. It was short but got my 3 year old's interest because of the words <i>cheerful holiness</i>. I further elaborated that this Saint was jolly and had a good sense of humor. His next question was, "Can you tell me one of his jokes?" Of course, I did not know any, but I explained further to my toddler that it was this gift that attracted so many penitents to the confessional. <br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Here are more resources on the life of Saint Philip Neri</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=97" target="_blank">St. Philip Neri - catholic.org</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/saints/philip-neri-737" target="_blank">St. Philip Neri - EWTN</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://raritanoratory.org/documents/2019/6/Life%20of%20St%20Philip.pdf" target="_blank">The Raritan Oratory of St. Philip Neri</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/saint/st-philip-neri-478" target="_blank">St. Philip Neri - CNA</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Watch it</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1WdJo_HzsN0" target="_blank">Story of St. Philip Neri - YouTube Christian Family TV</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;">After reading and talking about the life of St. Philip Neri, you may choose the next activity, depending on the age or ages of your children. for younger children, I would immediately go to a craft or a coloring activity, just so we could further discuss or 'wonder' about a saint's life.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I have a free printable on my <a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/coloring-pages.html" target="_blank">The Saints Printables</a> page, and you can download and use for the whole family. I not only made a saint coloring page this time but some coloring pages with the saint's quotes and a word or virtue associated with the saint. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLAHuoeKozHmYR73uld5TvaNxttywuAbnKaDhhT8V68XeSUsyH2Rxu27-OLnnnYyDCg9ygPZzEY5ECIXWTKSazgxOaZItVbstuDdP6ueHIDjorj06D7rZ5YhXe6lkIXTosk23IK0rtQFu6IUmnVacdZYMmn31WPOEW5n64Ap7M3uqaCL7Z1aSbxIgY_A/s3464/20230522_142530.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2597" data-original-width="3464" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLAHuoeKozHmYR73uld5TvaNxttywuAbnKaDhhT8V68XeSUsyH2Rxu27-OLnnnYyDCg9ygPZzEY5ECIXWTKSazgxOaZItVbstuDdP6ueHIDjorj06D7rZ5YhXe6lkIXTosk23IK0rtQFu6IUmnVacdZYMmn31WPOEW5n64Ap7M3uqaCL7Z1aSbxIgY_A/w400-h300/20230522_142530.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">You can print them smaller to fit your journals, or in A4 size for folders, if you keep any.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I have also printed out our faces on half a sheet of paper. Put then in a clear plastic sheet with different colored whiteboard markers. On feast day, they will be posted on a wall and everyone is free to doodle on each other's picture. The funniest doodle has a prize!</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaH7aaqUQxI8wykW2jy6Z3wSbAze8hb20gdNHIQ8Ob2BeHtmtSo-6btok8m8_tHcUc4VaZ5-u6Os8P8r0BQQ77WT14xiUPTEzNkexemTlqbGF8VGEfMKq8DNW5MPgbjPtznCeMjLPQK9d-StGwePilv0iMp4acCS3vP5c6mix6UVLLfVn-1ZKPh3AHOw/s2240/Untitled%20design%20(5).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaH7aaqUQxI8wykW2jy6Z3wSbAze8hb20gdNHIQ8Ob2BeHtmtSo-6btok8m8_tHcUc4VaZ5-u6Os8P8r0BQQ77WT14xiUPTEzNkexemTlqbGF8VGEfMKq8DNW5MPgbjPtznCeMjLPQK9d-StGwePilv0iMp4acCS3vP5c6mix6UVLLfVn-1ZKPh3AHOw/w400-h225/Untitled%20design%20(5).png" width="400" /></a></span></div><p></p><br /><p style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: arial; font-size: large; text-align: left;">Celebrate with food. </b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large; text-align: left;">It doesn't have to be fancy, but you can go all out on a feast or solemnity especially when it is really special for your family. We will try out this </span><a href="https://catholiccuisine.blogspot.com/2019/03/snickerdoodles-for-humorous-saint.html" style="font-family: arial; font-size: large; text-align: left;" target="_blank">snickerdoodle recipe from Catholic Cuisine</a><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large; text-align: left;"> and see if this is going to be a yearly thing. Our son loves cinnamon and sugar and so I think this will be a hit. Of course, the idea is to make this as a family or him and me, and not just me. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Since my son loves games, </b>especially the ones with much action, we will try the blindfold pillow fight game - a game I just saw a video of while researching for 'funny games' I laughed out loud when I watched it and imagined how we - Nanay, Tatay and Teo would play this. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I also have rounded up some game ideas for the entire family to play on St. Philip Neri's feast day.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #302a2c; letter-spacing: 2px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 21px 0px 15px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-transform: uppercase;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://playtivities.com/family-games-at-home-that-will-make-you-all-laugh/" target="_blank">FAMILY GAMES AT HOME THAT WILL MAKE YOU ALL LAUGH!</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I think these are the best ones I've found. It may take a little more patience to get to the instructions of the game itself but its worth it. We might try the mouth game - even if it isn't St. Philip Neri's feast.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Here's more for every member of the family...</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left; text-transform: uppercase;"><a href="https://www.parentmagazinesflorida.com/2020/05/13/8-laugh-out-loud-games-and-activities-to-do-at-home/" target="_blank">8 LAUGH OUT LOUD GAMES AND ACTIVITIES TO DO AT HOME</a></span></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>For families with younger children, Circle Time would be fun and engaging. </b>There a lot of fun and funny songs on the web. We prefer to use Spotify so its just pure listening and dancing. Check out <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0wI294xDyw1jY2asfUUDZE?si=d77192510bcd49ef" target="_blank">my Fun and Laughs playlist on Spotify</a> and see if you and your family have some favorites.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0wI294xDyw1jY2asfUUDZE?si=d77192510bcd49ef&nd=1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="558" data-original-width="1534" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR95BtrTYmbiNXO9mNVr9BPOwZEe7_ToFGUJ9ZXh08CDU4THalKURNsSXHYx0jeJQiC6CxTX0FvgkFrofglZKuxaN3vvC7FzcDMdDpgJROOryT0YkDVhupnCBefDmNVuHoftJxZricED_YRII8j49XopCWfFkks1Y6iyq49EhJIt6TnQpt0V1XI-cwdA/w400-h145/spotifyfunand%20laugh.png" width="400" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br />Allow your younger children to make their own moves, hold hands and dance together, listen to the lyrics with the older siblings and laugh and sing and dance!</span><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Extending the 'lesson' a bit for elementary level children, especially homeschooled kids like mine would entail a little bit of creativity. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>We usually use Google Maps</b> to locate a Saint's birthplace or mission country. But before we do that, I ask my son to list down the places he thinks is important when he reads the life of a saint. And so this is a little bit of Geography and History, with a bit of technology thrown in. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">From the book of Fr. Jose Vettickat, Cap; published by Screen Quest, which I bought (2 whole sets) of the lives of saints; I listed down some important places in the life of St. Philip Neri.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Florence, Italy:</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/TnzpbfKLRLk2XHEr8" target="_blank"> Dominican Monastery of San Marco</a> - now a museum</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/GYMesz5DuaPhrRS29" target="_blank">Sapienza Univeristy</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/ThhMeZovsyNTtLux9" target="_blank">St. Augustine's Monastery</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Naples:</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/PJ12gMFoRmoz41eJ6" target="_blank">chapel - Benedictines of Monte Casino</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Rome:</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/PTH3YY8s4v2eZTB6A" target="_blank">San Sebastian catacombs</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/2QUPf6FpV1LEtbuU9" target="_blank">Church of San Salvatore</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/zzhjVBLgix3LLPzr5" target="_blank">Santa Maria, Vellicella</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/WoWMAc3CBwpuytsYA" target="_blank">Oratorio de Filipini</a> - </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Chiesa Nuova</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">My son and I would try to use the directions option on Google Maps to see how a saint traveled. We would also go to street view and imagine us being there. Of course we would be then dreaming of a pilgrimage someday and how we are to travel - on foot, by bus or train if ever this dream would come to a reality.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">So go ahead and take a 'trip' to St. Philip Neri's birthplace and mission area with the whole family. Technology can be so awesome if we know how to temper our desires and use it for good. </span></div><div><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSLi_iMZth1iyUumg_JgqcmdEF92hA2O6qYePD9gPXyqwTzlNPERWyDKYOOD8-t1lQSEx1SmR5oFg_WWZAWQsT1BwTukkkyOEFkeDixRCrkAJo7FfR50vajeQMO1T4I9gI0P89PIu1-lZrrrmz911juVgvn2N11F6wUby-9e70b3qOpsHwwZvZS-w1VA/s1200/St.%20Philip%20Neri%20Blog%20Graphic.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSLi_iMZth1iyUumg_JgqcmdEF92hA2O6qYePD9gPXyqwTzlNPERWyDKYOOD8-t1lQSEx1SmR5oFg_WWZAWQsT1BwTukkkyOEFkeDixRCrkAJo7FfR50vajeQMO1T4I9gI0P89PIu1-lZrrrmz911juVgvn2N11F6wUby-9e70b3qOpsHwwZvZS-w1VA/s320/St.%20Philip%20Neri%20Blog%20Graphic.png" width="213" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span><p></p></div>Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-15243246480517381992022-06-06T18:19:00.004+08:002022-06-06T18:19:27.908+08:00Celebrating The Feast Of St Anthony Of Padua As A Family<p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnuADKTlk1tHxB6PTj3wm7_MVNbzZ_2tZ-GydQB_R8rR1gUyOTaV-rkzQWLHrWT_XnFMNxdpN-h4BeAFDXTed7XJUBZJNbWQgtWy3h0Lvsh1G_O5KnDzEbXlm_iYDwkB8nktnTLoiRUgxsR6BBBebre7pd2Ls9K_oZmU8exsBrNJ0fFhVWxy_jGOkMOg/s2240/1AEB9CD0-0BBF-4B1A-B82F-BB6C542ED40C.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnuADKTlk1tHxB6PTj3wm7_MVNbzZ_2tZ-GydQB_R8rR1gUyOTaV-rkzQWLHrWT_XnFMNxdpN-h4BeAFDXTed7XJUBZJNbWQgtWy3h0Lvsh1G_O5KnDzEbXlm_iYDwkB8nktnTLoiRUgxsR6BBBebre7pd2Ls9K_oZmU8exsBrNJ0fFhVWxy_jGOkMOg/w640-h360/1AEB9CD0-0BBF-4B1A-B82F-BB6C542ED40C.png" width="640" /></a></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">St. Anthony is one of our (many) favorite saints. Because it was the temporary last name the social worker gave our son while his adoption was being processed. You see, he was left by his birth mom at the Church of St Anthony of Padua. This is why St. Anthony is very special to us; and we celebrate his feast every year! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I would like to share with you the activities we have done through out these past 6 years. I have <a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/2016/06/celebrating-feast-of-st-anthony-of.html" target="_blank">another post here</a> and I shared one activity we did when our son was still 2 years old. Of course more activities may be added as our son grows or our family for that matter. I will definitely share them in this blog with you. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Read About St. Anthony</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">There are many books about St. Anthony for children of all ages. Here are some of the ones we found online.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">From Internet Archive:</span></p><div class="item-ttl C C2" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; text-align: center;"><div class="ttl" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 42px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding-left: 6px; padding-right: 6px; padding-top: 10px; text-align: left; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://archive.org/details/stanthonyofpadua00togl/page/n1/mode/2up?view=theater" target="_blank">St. Anthony of Padua</a></span></div></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://archive.org/details/stanthonyofpadua00togl/page/n1/mode/2up?view=theater" target="_blank"><span class="hidden-lists" style="box-sizing: border-box;">by</span> <span class="byv" style="box-sizing: border-box;" title="Togliatto, Luigi">Togliatto, Luigi</span></a></span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">32 pages</span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://archive.org/details/richyoungmansain0000beah/page/n7/mode/2up" target="_blank">A rich young man: Saint Anthony of Padua</a></span></span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Beahn, John Edward, 1910-1990</span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">264 pages</span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><br /></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://archive.org/details/saintanthonyofpa00obri" target="_blank">St. Anthony of Padua</a></span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">by O'Brien, Isidore</span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">52 pages</span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://archive.org/details/SaintAnthonyOfPadua/mode/2up" target="_blank">St. Anthony of Padua, His Life and Miracles</a></span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">by Farnum, Mabel</span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">182 pages</span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://archive.org/details/learnfromstantho00regn" target="_blank">Learn form St. Anthony</a></span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">by Regnier, Celestine</span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">36 pages</span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">There are some books here that we have not read yet, so we're very excited to</span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">read some this year.</span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">And here are some of the books we have read through the years.</span></div><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUCXwNAwtYMAPmclAp_rtlD_0h9MRNYu4Q8EvQITzro75fukJaxFD-eXfTYh4e78SnlWOkDTS3Vn9xj8j3Dn9N2iKYaWzFAeF_Jl-tCmr-TeOlFhZ47RmLFFSlbgsd7VQagzJV1Xhj7DBy4tl4cP5kZXAZh6CoOStdrp9AFoUuQzTwhwK2-pdC-fEsfQ/s1600/F3E797B4-A48E-49CE-8278-83F58D76C36D.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUCXwNAwtYMAPmclAp_rtlD_0h9MRNYu4Q8EvQITzro75fukJaxFD-eXfTYh4e78SnlWOkDTS3Vn9xj8j3Dn9N2iKYaWzFAeF_Jl-tCmr-TeOlFhZ47RmLFFSlbgsd7VQagzJV1Xhj7DBy4tl4cP5kZXAZh6CoOStdrp9AFoUuQzTwhwK2-pdC-fEsfQ/s320/F3E797B4-A48E-49CE-8278-83F58D76C36D.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Make sure you are reading age appropriate books for your children. If you have older and younger children, I suggest that you read a loud the ones for younger children and then encourage your older children who are already readers to do some quiet time reading on their own.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">After the read a loud, you can ask your older children to narrate back or share their favorite part of the story. If the little ones want to narrate back, let them. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Arts and Crafts</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Drawing or making a painting of St. Anthony would also be a good extension activity after a read a loud. My son would prefer drawing comic strips or a favorite scene in the story. I guess boys' drawings are more action based.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I have made a coloring page for children who prefer to color or paint. You can find it in the <a href="http://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/coloring-pages.html" target="_blank">My Friends, The Saints</a> page.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Games at Home</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">For the very young, you can try the </span><span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Feast of St. Anthony of Padua Activity on my previous blog post about St. Anthony.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Hide and seek with the whole family (inside the house- yep we did it during the lockdown) is always a good idea. Let the littlest ones hide where they want, you will surely laugh and giggle when you ‘find’ them.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Do you have something you need to find for the longest time? Pray this short prayer to St, Anthony and get the whole family finding that item. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><h2 class="subtitle" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-style: italic; font-weight: 500; line-height: 33px; margin-bottom: 30px; max-width: 100%; text-align: start; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Dear St. Anthony, please come around: something is lost, and it cannot be found.</span></h2></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">You can even offer a prize for the one who can find it. Why not do a little tidying up and cleaning as you play? I’m sure the older kids will be game about it, especially when there is a prize.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Try this scavenger hunt games I found on Pinterest.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://pin.it/28D0TQB" target="_blank"> Indoor Scavenger Hunt by Tired But Crafty Mommy</a></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://pin.it/2IG9qod" target="_blank">Indoor Scavenger Hunt Printable from Views From A Step School</a></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial; font-size: medium; text-align: center;"><a href="https://pin.it/49CFU8L" target="_blank">Free 2 Page Printable Indoor Scavenger Hunt For Kids by The Pragmatic Parent</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Outdoor Games</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Of course outdoor hide and seek! Just make sure the little ones don’t get left out.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Nature scavenger hunt</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Here are our favorites:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://pin.it/4vYiK51" target="_blank">Nature Scavenger Hunt for the Kids</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://pin.it/3IUOTOm" target="_blank">Scavenger Hunts for Kids by Mrs. Merry</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://pin.it/23zanrG" target="_blank">Scavenger Hunt for Toddlers</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Food</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">If its the feast day of a Franciscan/ Capuchin saint, I make myself a hot mug of sugar free cappuccino. One - not sugar free for the husband and a warm mug of hot chocolate for our son. We usually drink these in the morning.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">This year we will try making St Anthony's Bread. Because St. Anthony loved the poor and shared bread with them. We will use the recipe from <a href="https://www.cookingwithnonna.com/italian-cuisine/st-anthony-s-rolls.html" target="_blank">Rosella's Cooking With Nonna</a>. We will make more than the usual and share with friends, family and the people who work in the car wash in our building.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">There are more bread recipes on the internet, and you may chose the best one you can make with your family. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Learn more about <a href="https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/prayers/view.cfm?id=1379" target="_blank">St. Anthony's bread and the prayer here.</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">More bread recipes for the feast of St. Anthony <a href="https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/recipes/view.cfm?id=1461" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/recipes/view.cfm?id=17" target="_blank">here</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">If you wish to prepare a main course, there are more recipes <a href="https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2018-06-13" target="_blank">here</a>. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/recipes/view.cfm?id=1045" target="_blank"><br /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><h2 style="line-height: 28.8px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/recipes/view.cfm?id=1045" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">Catholic Recipe: Skewered Beef Roman Style</a></span></h2></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Further Readings</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="http://breadmonk.com/my-bread-blog/st-anthonys-bread" target="_blank">St. Anthony's Bread by The Bread Monk</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?id=9252" target="_blank">St. Anthony of Padua by Pope Benedict XVI</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.catholicculture.org/commentary/st-anthonys-bread/" target="_blank">St. Anthony's Bread</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I hope this post gave you some ideas on how to celebrate this feast with the family. If you have more activities or ideas on how to celebrate this beloved saint's feast day, please share them in the comments. Also, do share how you celebrated. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">God bless you!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><br /><div class="by C C4" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2c2c; line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 3px; max-height: 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; overflow-y: hidden; padding: 0px 6px;"><br /></div>Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-60852277565992761662022-05-18T00:15:00.005+08:002022-05-18T00:15:58.315+08:00Celebrating The Feast Of The Visitation<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz9bKmzLa7sBWZ06qFBWu86r1on3PMbEZfys9PsdkFwMKeSaIqD0yqh92Ok_7IC5l2yiLMI1qmq9LtJtaHGZj33xQuEuF2-ZzqZ4PBE1bpH2qaGSC1UYMY1MXOodvwwtusH6vFFsNxpg-AH4hrZK5dS5AmMDn0VTlNFO8y3D_CZ6CgMPxQchgrT_5NxQ/s2240/197E972E-10EB-4A67-91E4-CE9BA21EDE67.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz9bKmzLa7sBWZ06qFBWu86r1on3PMbEZfys9PsdkFwMKeSaIqD0yqh92Ok_7IC5l2yiLMI1qmq9LtJtaHGZj33xQuEuF2-ZzqZ4PBE1bpH2qaGSC1UYMY1MXOodvwwtusH6vFFsNxpg-AH4hrZK5dS5AmMDn0VTlNFO8y3D_CZ6CgMPxQchgrT_5NxQ/w640-h360/197E972E-10EB-4A67-91E4-CE9BA21EDE67.png" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We always make an effort, as a family to celebrate Liturgical feasts. Most of the time, the activities can be very simple and its okay. The main goal is to remember the solemnity, memorial or feast with love and devotion so our children will continue the tradition when they have grown and have a family of their own. Of course by doing this we become one with the vibrant life of our Holy Catholic Church.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">So here are a few ways to celebrate the Feast of The Visitation of The Blessed Virgin Mary.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Read A Louds</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Read Lk. 1: 39-47 with your children. For the very young, you may read from your favorite children’s bible. You can also ask your older children to narrate back the story so the younger children can hear it in a simpler way. Don’t forget to ask the littleest ones if they too, want to narrate back. We usually read together as a family in the evening before prayer so Tatay (Daddy in Tagalog) can join us. And even if my son and I have already read and narrated earlier during Morning Basket/ breakfast, we will read and narrate again - maybe even better, for the sakr of Tatay.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">A few years back when we celebrated the feast of the Visitation, I showed our son some pictures of his Tatay and I at Ein Karem - a Catholic Church in Jerusalem where, tradition says, Mary recited her Magnificat. I told him about the long uphill climb and how his lolo (grandfather) braved every step even though his knees were hurting. He then asked if Mama Mary’s tummy was already big that time. I told him probably not yet. Then he said, “Good. She did not have a hard time like lolo.”</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsfSij9vxEiQdO3MfVKzu6FGkBQ6Qf1veDprxxB7fUifRfLTcVjaB1BVXrlffgJ1GjMDzbQQW6Wul_jTgpB9cRks31YKui2Zs0qx6pMn9Di33mhITIMlJYSjDg7GsM9jVFVMZ4ADrLfkybFv4f8JkwAAMjUPN7PvdII6xCFWlr7zgeQbCz-OTR4pTObA/s960/0DFE4AC3-D0BE-4117-AFDB-EB33CA4E87FA.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsfSij9vxEiQdO3MfVKzu6FGkBQ6Qf1veDprxxB7fUifRfLTcVjaB1BVXrlffgJ1GjMDzbQQW6Wul_jTgpB9cRks31YKui2Zs0qx6pMn9Di33mhITIMlJYSjDg7GsM9jVFVMZ4ADrLfkybFv4f8JkwAAMjUPN7PvdII6xCFWlr7zgeQbCz-OTR4pTObA/s320/0DFE4AC3-D0BE-4117-AFDB-EB33CA4E87FA.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglcYZz7GNsjRWxg_pDTMLLpF2o7RUbtJYTe8hXen2U-QsYFpItqvX41I0VaE6GbbM1zSWsCZLz0R-2MHFSXOr2fXoOse-liNhUEfx20MPdAIu03iN0nnwuQ7gBboZEEVa7C0mptdCMcnYNugBQAxQOIshyfT-0Fue7-_hHmURb4PgVqIFYh4xuFa5F4A/s960/8E6445CA-C0EC-459C-B0D4-AA5B61300FAA.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglcYZz7GNsjRWxg_pDTMLLpF2o7RUbtJYTe8hXen2U-QsYFpItqvX41I0VaE6GbbM1zSWsCZLz0R-2MHFSXOr2fXoOse-liNhUEfx20MPdAIu03iN0nnwuQ7gBboZEEVa7C0mptdCMcnYNugBQAxQOIshyfT-0Fue7-_hHmURb4PgVqIFYh4xuFa5F4A/s320/8E6445CA-C0EC-459C-B0D4-AA5B61300FAA.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPPPnPP9oRQOc4MhHJ6v4eaEJwovFZIw0umK4s-pMw6zAqJA1Bt8QJSpr9K_C4vuFbXUga8E89TjadR5SBhegQtrzJEx_j0KbvTkpyyCXA6USLrDr9dwcgJXyBseLId7WuRMpZaoZ9bWIf6BsYmuCg8i1adNvThE65RUEC-QtjW_nh2ns5Wi5Y8YJJAQ/s960/E05AD271-1C0B-496C-8A8E-62907E71B7CD.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPPPnPP9oRQOc4MhHJ6v4eaEJwovFZIw0umK4s-pMw6zAqJA1Bt8QJSpr9K_C4vuFbXUga8E89TjadR5SBhegQtrzJEx_j0KbvTkpyyCXA6USLrDr9dwcgJXyBseLId7WuRMpZaoZ9bWIf6BsYmuCg8i1adNvThE65RUEC-QtjW_nh2ns5Wi5Y8YJJAQ/s320/E05AD271-1C0B-496C-8A8E-62907E71B7CD.jpeg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Reading a loud many stories with your children helps them process their thoughts and emotions. Telling stories and experiences of people whom they know makes it personal. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">So read and tell stories surrounding this event in the life of our Mother. Share your own personal experience with visiting a pregnant woman or a mom who just gave birth. This will bring the bible passage to life for your children.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">You may want to listen to some more:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/2CUqsEypNr4pbBKCS1eysL?si=kT-QKw5zQJaOFoXzrxtt3g" target="_blank">The Visitation of Mary</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Music and Movement</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">What better way to express the joy of this event with songs and dance!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/0IDn3Itekh7LqppN7uYsXK?si=F6oX4D-cTGiBuymVAjVyoA" target="_blank">Magnificat - Mary ‘s Canticle by Bukas Palad</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Learn any one of these versions</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/0Kb9ij6PHxjcil9J2EEz1w?si=x0zthDP2RdGyikNfOKnByw" target="_blank">Magnificat by Hangad, Ryza Martizez</a></span></p><p><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/1Iww4BDksrKx3A2VyOeUyF?si=lj4DKgggTpiR23OkqV863w" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Magnificat - Holy is His Name by Robert Kochis</span></a></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">A song for winding down, sitting on the floor with the littlest and rocking or cuddling.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/1kgteT8QTQv0Sn78f0LdSj?si=FYJR4ePjQjeYiXJn2ZHH7w" target="_blank">All That I Am by Arnel Aquino, SK</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I have also made a printable of the Magnigicat to post for a few week on the wall of our homeschool room. We will sing or recite it probably for a week after the feast before we begin our prayer to start our homeschool.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I am sharing the printable with you, and you can download it here:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fOQM36V32hRPx3O6u-jCRz3mhS74th9K/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Magnificat Printable</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Celebrate with Food</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I am not good at baking cakes, especially from scrap. But this <a href="https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/recipes/view.cfm?id=1446" target="_blank">recipe</a> from catholicculture.org seems easy to do, so I might try it this year. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/recipes/view.cfm?id=1446" target="_blank">Heart cake</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Or we might make heart shaped cookies with blue icing, Mama Mary’s color. Then decorate the cookies as an afternoon activity.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Arts and Crafts</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> For children who love to paint and color, they can work on this </span><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jLkDiwRD8ODvo29yeHaX5AX-4wR9Rpz3" style="font-family: arial;" target="_blank">coloring page</a><span style="font-family: arial;"> while you continue to talk about the story. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Other Activities</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">If Covid restrictions in your area allow it, you can visit a pregnant woman or prepare a meal for her family. If not, maybe a Zoom call ould lift the spirits up of the expectant mother. Modelling love for neighbor, denying ones self or charity towards others will greatly impact your children and the way they respond to the needs of others. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Go to mass if you can or attend an online mass. This day is not a Holy day of obligation but if you can attend mass as a family as many times in a week as possible, it will always be a good idea.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I pray that some of these activities will help you celebrate the feast of the Visitation.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: arial; font-size: large;">If you know of a homeschool parent who might need this, please share this post. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: arial; font-size: large;">God bless you.</div><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-59032003249158967652021-07-08T17:59:00.003+08:002021-07-08T17:59:38.408+08:00Keeping A Journal in Homeschool<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S2z_Hy8rgrE/YOaKwfhjZiI/AAAAAAAALug/GjO6V67J5t4H--Ac8aFj8OLmyJDvaU3pgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/keeping%2Ba%2Bjournal%2B%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S2z_Hy8rgrE/YOaKwfhjZiI/AAAAAAAALug/GjO6V67J5t4H--Ac8aFj8OLmyJDvaU3pgCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h360/keeping%2Ba%2Bjournal%2B%25281%2529.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Homeschooling or not, using the Charlotte Mason method or not, it is always a good idea to keep a journal. Why?</span></p><p></p><blockquote><span face="arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-size: 16px;">"If </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">you write</b><span face="arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-size: 16px;"> something by hand, all that complex sensory information increases the chances the knowledge </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">will</b><span face="arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-size: 16px;"> be stored for later. In short, </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">writing</b><span face="arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-size: 16px;"> by hand forces </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">your</b><span face="arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-size: 16px;"> brain to process information in a more detailed way, which </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">helps you</b><span face="arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-size: 16px;"> successfully load that information into </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">your memory</b><span face="arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-size: 16px;">."</span></blockquote><blockquote><p><span style="font-size: small;"> https://www.lifesavvy.com/19204/why-you-remember-things-better-when-you-write-them-down/#:~:text=If%20you%20write%20something%20by,that%20information%20into%20your%20memory.</span></p></blockquote><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I have often been asked about journaling in homeschool because of what I post on my FB</span><span style="font-family: arial;"> timeline and page. So I hope this will help all the homeschool parents start and keep a journal for the subjects in your homeschool.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Our journaling journey started when we were not homeschooling formally yet. We began with a small sketchbook, crayons and colored pens. We drew anything! When our son was interested in firemen and fire trucks, I drew and he colored. When he said he wanted to draw and paint a firetruck, he did.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kGLkVAKgeZc/YOP6yKEZttI/AAAAAAAALuA/HdF1phOAPHo1_-0uWLTFZsgB8YTKfa3UQCLcBGAsYHQ/s960/20992837_1792626174085319_8725418850382565616_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="960" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kGLkVAKgeZc/YOP6yKEZttI/AAAAAAAALuA/HdF1phOAPHo1_-0uWLTFZsgB8YTKfa3UQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/20992837_1792626174085319_8725418850382565616_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oq31ksvWtow/YOP6yH2PJ6I/AAAAAAAALuE/RtO7_XToph0NDRCegvT_GoW8uPx1trOiACLcBGAsYHQ/s960/20993105_1792626117418658_2155821827825880500_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="960" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oq31ksvWtow/YOP6yH2PJ6I/AAAAAAAALuE/RtO7_XToph0NDRCegvT_GoW8uPx1trOiACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/20993105_1792626117418658_2155821827825880500_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;">After our Nature Walks, we would stay at the front porch to look at the 'treasures' we have collected and paste some on our nature journal or try to draw the most interesting ones.</span></span><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eZvQ4zKW3cM/YOQPk_DbabI/AAAAAAAALuU/CJT3PMchCWEAFcsqCs2odGa4SX_HSwEGQCLcBGAsYHQ/s960/27336219_1965161920165076_5234869100777452800_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="960" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eZvQ4zKW3cM/YOQPk_DbabI/AAAAAAAALuU/CJT3PMchCWEAFcsqCs2odGa4SX_HSwEGQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/27336219_1965161920165076_5234869100777452800_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V9hyDcx__XA/YOQPkwtEZgI/AAAAAAAALuQ/mTI8QniMl2snsj2PogDg9Msi9TvI8kbEgCLcBGAsYHQ/s960/21369137_1807802365901033_2361618999326357907_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="960" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V9hyDcx__XA/YOQPkwtEZgI/AAAAAAAALuQ/mTI8QniMl2snsj2PogDg9Msi9TvI8kbEgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/21369137_1807802365901033_2361618999326357907_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">When Our son was 5, we added a couple of more journals. Bible, Geography and History and drew anything which interested us. I kept a single journal for myself to model journal keeping to our son. Tatay (Papa in Tagalog) takes a look at our journals, after coming home from work, while Teo narrates.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Bible Journal</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Inside our son's current Bible Journal are drawings from the Sunday Gospels and readings from our current children's bible, Bible Stories For Little Children, from Sophia Press. After I read aloud the Gospel, I let him narrate it back. Then we talk about it. I would ask, What do you think about ____ (any event, person or place that was mentioned in the Gospel reading. My follow up question would be, "Why do you say so?" And from there we will have wonderful, spirit-filled discussions. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Tuesdays are for Bible Stories. We would read from the Children's Bible and go through the same routine until its time to 'draw what the stroy would look like.' In order to help our son imagine and paint a picture in his minds, we would both close our eyes and add ourselves to the story. When we have put ourselves in the story, I ask, who are you in the story? What can you see? Feel? Smell? hear? or even taste? Then once a scene is created in our minds, we draw it. While drawing, and coloring, we talk and 'wonder' more about what we have read. And this allows us to reflect on God's message.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Once we've done with drawing, coloring or painting, its time for our son to dictate the story so I could write it down.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SQQTRKpZM5A" width="320" youtube-src-id="SQQTRKpZM5A"></iframe></div><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Bible Journal Per Level:</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Preschool/ Kindergarten</span></p><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Bible stories from chosen Children's Bible. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Coloring pages of Bible stories which can be downloaded from the internet for free. I have some <a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/prayers-and.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Torn paper mosaic </span></li></ol><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Grades 1-3</span></div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"></ol></div><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Bible stories from chosen Children's Bible. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Draw the scenes imagined from the reading.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Write a reflection (independently or dictated)</span></li></ol><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Saint Book</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I began my journal on the Saints when I started to create <a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/wooden-dolls.html" target="_blank">Wooden Saint Dolls</a>. I would first draw and paint how a saint would look like in the wooden doll shape. . Our son started his last year when he was 6. He also used the wooden doll template I used. After I have read a story about a saint, he would narrate it back and point out the remarkable </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">characteristics of the saint.</span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">. </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">After he describes how he sees the saint,</span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> he will then use that to imagine how the saint looks like, I show him images of the saint on the internet. And then we both draw and paint. Later on, he tried drawing the saints as he imagined it. We also sometimes print the <a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/coloring-pages.html" target="_blank">saint coloring pages I create</a> and color that. Then, we paste it in his journal.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YO-LjF7BSuc/YOazZtShtyI/AAAAAAAALus/7yzDRUhPFfob_OF3sUvksR57UBzm-icbwCLcBGAsYHQ/s402/saints%2Bjournal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="402" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YO-LjF7BSuc/YOazZtShtyI/AAAAAAAALus/7yzDRUhPFfob_OF3sUvksR57UBzm-icbwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/saints%2Bjournal.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Saint Journal Per Level:</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Preschool/ Kindergarten</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><span> </span><span> **</span>not yet**</span></p><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Grades 1-3</span></div><div><ol></ol></div><p></p><ol><li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Saint stories from chosen Lives of Saints book. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Draw the scenes or physical/ spiritual characteristics imagined from the reading.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Write down the name of the saint, his/ her feast day and patronage. You can add more interesting facts about the saint if space permits.</span></li></ol><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><b style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;">History and Geography Journals</b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We began keeping a history and geography journal this year. Our first grader was used to drawing what he remembers and he claims that he is able to explain a concept better when he draws it. Here are </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">a few samples of what he entered in his journal.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xNOeRt-1mfo/YOa7MinV8HI/AAAAAAAALvE/Fk8YYih5gxA64BCE70T8RXRMZBg17J1OACLcBGAsYHQ/206900638_3088865368001209_5198097379057566980_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xNOeRt-1mfo/YOa7MinV8HI/AAAAAAAALvE/Fk8YYih5gxA64BCE70T8RXRMZBg17J1OACLcBGAsYHQ/206900638_3088865368001209_5198097379057566980_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a2P0NoCCt1U/YOa7tEQITII/AAAAAAAALvU/tpJBpCsds2EboN2IljiVmW92neGarY_RgCLcBGAsYHQ/history.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a2P0NoCCt1U/YOa7tEQITII/AAAAAAAALvU/tpJBpCsds2EboN2IljiVmW92neGarY_RgCLcBGAsYHQ/history.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3bgLh9h46ZY/YOa7KnufZvI/AAAAAAAALu8/Y3h2qnY2WvchUdePXFBnOZfKTg3IPtPLQCLcBGAsYHQ/208001985_513712336504386_1913220521952462046_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3bgLh9h46ZY/YOa7KnufZvI/AAAAAAAALu8/Y3h2qnY2WvchUdePXFBnOZfKTg3IPtPLQCLcBGAsYHQ/208001985_513712336504386_1913220521952462046_n.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D9X_4dJ9rgM/YOa7JxDGxjI/AAAAAAAALu4/R7z9dLBwJNAT1tEXi5bRLG-XxzoGrKCBACLcBGAsYHQ/206139933_494058128326771_2927986127949240804_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D9X_4dJ9rgM/YOa7JxDGxjI/AAAAAAAALu4/R7z9dLBwJNAT1tEXi5bRLG-XxzoGrKCBACLcBGAsYHQ/206139933_494058128326771_2927986127949240804_n.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><br /></span><p></p><p><b style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;">Nature Journal</b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Our nature journaling goes way back when our son was only 3. We would tape the flowers and leaves he picked up from our walks and tried to draw them sometimes. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Then beginning last school year, when our son was 6 years old we began drawing what we learned in our Nature Study subject. After I read the story to him, he narrates back and then draws. Towards the last months in this school year, he was already the one who was reading. He would narrate first, then I. He also insisted that he write the details and labels in his drawings. There are still no field drawings until now as we have not yet resumed our nature walks. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Take a look at some of the entries we did all throughout the years.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-r_6Qi_17E_U/YObHxgZvBFI/AAAAAAAALvc/ICOoyVAWr802TVoqNIQ-hEnjh05ww5bYACLcBGAsYHQ/208280466_250736386429686_9116788038411709447_n%2B%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-r_6Qi_17E_U/YObHxgZvBFI/AAAAAAAALvc/ICOoyVAWr802TVoqNIQ-hEnjh05ww5bYACLcBGAsYHQ/208280466_250736386429686_9116788038411709447_n%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LL48sIQmGBg/YObH4_YjXzI/AAAAAAAALvk/kGlaUKcOXG4SR9GdvG2FZAFEhzAUXTWjwCLcBGAsYHQ/215503633_1197121524083402_8022553288987476423_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LL48sIQmGBg/YObH4_YjXzI/AAAAAAAALvk/kGlaUKcOXG4SR9GdvG2FZAFEhzAUXTWjwCLcBGAsYHQ/215503633_1197121524083402_8022553288987476423_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LmOF-jc9xjc/YObIJ40DJ8I/AAAAAAAALv4/5chDuuHbb9w-zr7vvD4itimmYXIKW3KoQCLcBGAsYHQ/211307413_1636720276718663_3187872949282697040_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LmOF-jc9xjc/YObIJ40DJ8I/AAAAAAAALv4/5chDuuHbb9w-zr7vvD4itimmYXIKW3KoQCLcBGAsYHQ/211307413_1636720276718663_3187872949282697040_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4PtfJzz1qAo/YObIdAMmFmI/AAAAAAAALwI/lvpHTBkJ04IQM2ThkpdLL8f1mLSod5R9QCLcBGAsYHQ/203614610_182804540473957_7023796082635450260_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4PtfJzz1qAo/YObIdAMmFmI/AAAAAAAALwI/lvpHTBkJ04IQM2ThkpdLL8f1mLSod5R9QCLcBGAsYHQ/203614610_182804540473957_7023796082635450260_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-orML0oZNckA/YObIr8dg5YI/AAAAAAAALwQ/R_IGhGPEHCsJRgVI-RKmhRBCrTB76Zl9QCLcBGAsYHQ/208280477_244821883832262_6622121331260642038_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-orML0oZNckA/YObIr8dg5YI/AAAAAAAALwQ/R_IGhGPEHCsJRgVI-RKmhRBCrTB76Zl9QCLcBGAsYHQ/208280477_244821883832262_6622121331260642038_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--a5a-s_iBio/YObIwlGdmhI/AAAAAAAALwg/5mHMEca1AmkYYoLJ_FF_RQFBvOIQYSU6gCLcBGAsYHQ/203614610_182804540473957_7023796082635450260_n%2B%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--a5a-s_iBio/YObIwlGdmhI/AAAAAAAALwg/5mHMEca1AmkYYoLJ_FF_RQFBvOIQYSU6gCLcBGAsYHQ/203614610_182804540473957_7023796082635450260_n%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lB1pd0uKXek/YObIuoXGRPI/AAAAAAAALwc/GP6tul6levAmv2BqvSQwuCS5l9TF-88bQCLcBGAsYHQ/206173620_496781268250488_5799014693049244925_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lB1pd0uKXek/YObIuoXGRPI/AAAAAAAALwc/GP6tul6levAmv2BqvSQwuCS5l9TF-88bQCLcBGAsYHQ/206173620_496781268250488_5799014693049244925_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I hope this post gave you some ideas on how to start and keep a journal for your chosen subjects in your homeschooling. I would love to hear your ideas too and how you do journaling in your homeschool. Please share your experiences in the comments!<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you know of a homeschool parent who might need this, please share this post. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">God bless you.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><p></p></div>Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-13586037717580047522021-04-23T21:36:00.004+08:002021-04-23T21:36:57.233+08:00Liturgical Living: May Feasts And Solemnities<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-em1hRfZt7kY/YH_uu4rFrBI/AAAAAAAALXs/Vn1Fwi_yliYkuGSMYEBNIKPx3xT7TFxTACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/May%2Bfeasts%2Band%2Bsolemnities%2B%25281%2529.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-em1hRfZt7kY/YH_uu4rFrBI/AAAAAAAALXs/Vn1Fwi_yliYkuGSMYEBNIKPx3xT7TFxTACLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h360/May%2Bfeasts%2Band%2Bsolemnities%2B%25281%2529.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> Praise God it is May! </span><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">As of this writing, most of us are still under enhanced quarantine. I have rounded up some activities for the entire family to do this month.</span></div><div><p></p><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Mama Mary</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The whole month of May is dedicated to The Blessed Virgin Mary. Filipinos offer flowers to the Blessed Virgin before or after daily and Sunday masses. Since most of us still cannot come to church, let us offer our drawings, paintings or crafted flowers to our Blessed Mother. I have a<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EmlwX2XOdReX74TvWw5lIyA7QEZOJraO/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank"> FREE printable of the Blessed Mother</a> here. You can print it and add flowers on her head each day for the whole month of May.</span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UHBUkj5aNj4/YIKsfvd-33I/AAAAAAAALZg/Ls7PRt04_kwmpw46F_kT3OPGXS5v8hl2gCLcBGAsYHQ/s2000/Blessed%2BVirgin%2BMary%2BMay%2BCrowning%2BActivity%2B%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1414" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UHBUkj5aNj4/YIKsfvd-33I/AAAAAAAALZg/Ls7PRt04_kwmpw46F_kT3OPGXS5v8hl2gCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Blessed%2BVirgin%2BMary%2BMay%2BCrowning%2BActivity%2B%25281%2529.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EmlwX2XOdReX74TvWw5lIyA7QEZOJraO/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Blessed Virgin Mary </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EmlwX2XOdReX74TvWw5lIyA7QEZOJraO/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Crowning Activity PDF</a></div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4p16SYhK8yE/YIKxxkPbRvI/AAAAAAAALZs/HOkAHu2h1fIL2LVGrQ1JJliXs0uCKdZNgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/176232198_735825997060039_8707413248713462635_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4p16SYhK8yE/YIKxxkPbRvI/AAAAAAAALZs/HOkAHu2h1fIL2LVGrQ1JJliXs0uCKdZNgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/176232198_735825997060039_8707413248713462635_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Papa Joseph</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">May 1 is the feast of St. Joseph, the worker. You can find ways to celebrate in this blog post: <a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/2017/03/celebrating-feast-of-st-joseph-husband.html" target="_blank">Celebrating The Feast of St Joseph, Husband of Mary</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Sunday Gospel Readings</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">May 2. The Vine and The Branches John 15: 1-8. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Even before the pandemic, our family prepares for Sunday mass by reading the Sunday Gospel after breakfast. Since it is also a homeschool day (not a weekend) We do narration and journaling also. After reading (and/or listening) to the Gospel each member narrates back what has been read, starting from the youngest up to the eldest (including Nanay - Mom and Tatay - Dad). We also do Scripture memory from the Gospel. I have another <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KsKlVmSM_ArSM4aoTmGcWi2uuQ8QfjiE/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">FREE printable</a> to use in memorizing a verse in the Gospel. </span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZdzczU678D4/YIK4FQx5QBI/AAAAAAAALZ8/c0R2WkS1SGw7NzgAX2drM-_erFp5P3k1ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/The%2BVine%2Band%2Bthe%2Bbranches%2B%25281%2529_Page_2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1448" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZdzczU678D4/YIK4FQx5QBI/AAAAAAAALZ8/c0R2WkS1SGw7NzgAX2drM-_erFp5P3k1ACLcBGAsYHQ/w141-h200/The%2BVine%2Band%2Bthe%2Bbranches%2B%25281%2529_Page_2.png" width="141" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">May 9. Love One Another. John 15 9-17</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">There is a Scripture Memory coloring page, a word search and a word factory activity page <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ykbEXcNDLdDh9tXa_L6qAJRuQjHxwCY5/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">here.</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">More printables on my <a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/prayers-and.html" target="_blank">FREE PRINTABLES</a> page.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Saints' Feasts</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Saints Philip and James, May 3</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Saint Matthias, May 14</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Saint Rita of Cascia, May 22</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Saint Bede the Venerable, May 25</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">You can find coloring pages for all these saints over at my <a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/coloring-pages.html" target="_blank">THE SAINTS PRINTABLES</a> page.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--cq760TUPEQ/YILMbSFgZwI/AAAAAAAALak/4dP3XJUu2AQ3vQsXigWeUVuz5lTaA9pZQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Our%2BFriends.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="113" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--cq760TUPEQ/YILMbSFgZwI/AAAAAAAALak/4dP3XJUu2AQ3vQsXigWeUVuz5lTaA9pZQCLcBGAsYHQ/w200-h113/Our%2BFriends.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/coloring-pages.html" style="font-family: arial; font-size: large; text-align: left;" target="_blank">THE SAINTS PRINTABLES</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Feast of the Ascension of Our Lord</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Ways to celebrate and a FREE printable can be found in my <a href="https://teacherweena.blogspot.com/2020/05/celebrating-feast-of-ascension.html" target="_blank">Celebrating The Feast of The Ascension blog post</a>.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RfT4ceqvlNY/YILM1jXEH4I/AAAAAAAALas/i7CuCBXNeS8JrfZkn_0PcVHaBOQ796d7gCLcBGAsYHQ/s560/Celebrating.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" height="113" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RfT4ceqvlNY/YILM1jXEH4I/AAAAAAAALas/i7CuCBXNeS8JrfZkn_0PcVHaBOQ796d7gCLcBGAsYHQ/w200-h113/Celebrating.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://teacherweena.blogspot.com/2020/05/celebrating-feast-of-ascension.html" style="font-family: arial; font-size: large; text-align: left;" target="_blank">Celebrating The Feast of The Ascension blog post</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Pentecost</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Ways to celebrate and again, a FREE printable can be found in my <a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/2020/05/celebrating-pentecost-with-family.html" target="_blank">Celebrating Pentecost With Family</a></span></div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qnUPnUwUCU8/YILNO7Cqe9I/AAAAAAAALa0/q8ZzKhhzuh0a2iLGqzegtYbJLD1jpcGRgCLcBGAsYHQ/s560/PENTECOST.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" height="113" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qnUPnUwUCU8/YILNO7Cqe9I/AAAAAAAALa0/q8ZzKhhzuh0a2iLGqzegtYbJLD1jpcGRgCLcBGAsYHQ/w200-h113/PENTECOST.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/2020/05/celebrating-pentecost-with-family.html" target="_blank">Celebrating Pentecost With Family</a></span></div><div><br style="text-align: left;" /></div></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I will continue adding links and resources to this post. So please check once in a while. I would love to know what you have done to celebrate these feasts and solemnities so please drop a photo or message on my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/everythingisgodsgift" target="_blank">Everything Is Grace Facebook page.</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">God bless you.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QwnP66WGr2U/YILMHYTGUCI/AAAAAAAALac/v-jIpvM8KHcfuXDxRUPejfRcxfih0Qf0gCLcBGAsYHQ/s560/Custom%2Breeting%2Bcards%2B%252B%2Bart%2Bprints.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QwnP66WGr2U/YILMHYTGUCI/AAAAAAAALac/v-jIpvM8KHcfuXDxRUPejfRcxfih0Qf0gCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Custom%2Breeting%2Bcards%2B%252B%2Bart%2Bprints.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span></div>Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-75181961686059362912021-04-23T14:05:00.000+08:002021-04-23T14:05:08.052+08:00Celebrating The Feast of St. Catherine of Siena<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AXXyw_vZ9BI/YH8PvMCupCI/AAAAAAAALW0/rfx-GXZQKPInBPO2ZaynBZ1524qiFLD9QCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Celebrating%2BThe%2BFeast%2B%25283%2529.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AXXyw_vZ9BI/YH8PvMCupCI/AAAAAAAALW0/rfx-GXZQKPInBPO2ZaynBZ1524qiFLD9QCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h360/Celebrating%2BThe%2BFeast%2B%25283%2529.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The Feast of Saint Catherine of Siena is on April 29. She is the patroness of Europe. She is also the patroness of fire fighters and against fire because she was not consumed by it whenever she fell into fire during her ecstasies. Her patronage also include nurses, people ridiculed for their piety, Italy, against bodily ills, miscarriages, and sexual temptation, </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Here are some ideas for you and your family to do on her feast.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="arial"><b>Learn more about St. Catherine</b></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="arial"><b><br /></b></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="arial" size="4">YouTube videos on the life of St. Catherine.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="arial" size="4"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="arial" size="4">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AZSblkcm-ME</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="arial" size="4"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="arial" size="4">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbGft4ARjdY</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="arial" size="4"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="arial" size="4">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ncIjpRWgFvc</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="arial" size="4"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="arial" size="4">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CF2bycKbS4c</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="arial" size="4"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="arial" size="4">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iSVrh5FZ_a4</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="arial"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="arial"><b>Books:</b></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">There are many Books of Saints for children which includes St. Catherine of Siena. Here are two from which we have already read about St. Catherine. </span></div><p></p>
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</iframe> <div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I discovered a 30 day devotional based on the classic spirituality of St. Catherine.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Set Aside Every Fear is available on Scribd. We plan to begin reading on St. Catherine's feast day.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
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</iframe><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Saints Journal</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">My Son and I have been drawing and painting the Saints we learn in our Saints Journal. He loves to draw and he usually draws the events in the saints' lives rather than just a portrait of the saint. I usually do portraits. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">If you haven't started a journal yet, I encourage you to do so. You can download a <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pjAULXiwPpmiva3VnO4Qw4DdJCmj3R93/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">coloring page</a> for the little ones who prefer to just color. They can have their own Saint Journals too. The coloring pages can be pasted on a drawing book or sketch book or just put together in a binder.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tNbAeSyCBBM/YIJf3n06O9I/AAAAAAAALZA/8B8QHnmGavsRiblgNLfrPLgYkSBucKFwACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3825.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tNbAeSyCBBM/YIJf3n06O9I/AAAAAAAALZA/8B8QHnmGavsRiblgNLfrPLgYkSBucKFwACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3825.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yja6ECH8oso/YIJf3ljWXNI/AAAAAAAALY8/ngYZsRkmhH0QnGNqxv7irfrq0SJhEdxMgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yja6ECH8oso/YIJf3ljWXNI/AAAAAAAALY8/ngYZsRkmhH0QnGNqxv7irfrq0SJhEdxMgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3826.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I3NUs7tbTnc/YIJf37NcrFI/AAAAAAAALZE/ADfXq2gq9gkq6-IzfiVbRkSxqX8kTLwCwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I3NUs7tbTnc/YIJf37NcrFI/AAAAAAAALZE/ADfXq2gq9gkq6-IzfiVbRkSxqX8kTLwCwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3827.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8dWpUH2Afzk/YIJf442K8oI/AAAAAAAALZI/It2bN4kHJ9g-u9pt90a-BQmtgvnhNp41ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3828.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8dWpUH2Afzk/YIJf442K8oI/AAAAAAAALZI/It2bN4kHJ9g-u9pt90a-BQmtgvnhNp41ACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3828.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t-_frkF_wlc/YIJf5X5Y1II/AAAAAAAALZM/XURW95gmpsEU-vs8LS33pnVTGS135EYrwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t-_frkF_wlc/YIJf5X5Y1II/AAAAAAAALZM/XURW95gmpsEU-vs8LS33pnVTGS135EYrwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3829.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Do Housework (With Love)</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">If you homeschool like us, you know too well that housework is part of the curriculum, and that it is encouraged even to the little ones. St. Catherine was made to do the most difficult housework to change her mind and agree to be married. She did all that was asked of her quietly and patiently. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e3pzwxF2WeA/YIABf0ZcFtI/AAAAAAAALX0/O-034mHVMUMZGzue3I2M96DjZEPcRj2XQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1200/st%2Bcatherine%2Bquote.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e3pzwxF2WeA/YIABf0ZcFtI/AAAAAAAALX0/O-034mHVMUMZGzue3I2M96DjZEPcRj2XQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/st%2Bcatherine%2Bquote.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">So just like St. Catherine, encourage each other to do all their chores with love and cheerfulness.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Talk about Firefighters and Fire Safety</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Toddlers and Preschoolers would be delighted to do some activities about firemen. When our son was 3 years old, we pretended to be firemen, climbed up a ladder and even made props. I was asked to draw a couple of fire trucks to paint on. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ByliLL1lXYU/YIGoRd_CTYI/AAAAAAAALYM/SNbgM8CXYnMroTxc6MvFd8XHvbYvcIRbwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1200/everythimgisgodsgift.blogspot.com.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ByliLL1lXYU/YIGoRd_CTYI/AAAAAAAALYM/SNbgM8CXYnMroTxc6MvFd8XHvbYvcIRbwCLcBGAsYHQ/w266-h400/everythimgisgodsgift.blogspot.com.png" width="266" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Celebrate With Food</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I will definitely try this one from <a href="https://catholiccuisine.blogspot.com/2012/11/les-coeurs-de-sainte-catherine.html" target="_blank">Catholic Cuisine</a></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">You can also prepare something that is cooked by fire like barbeque or a flambe. Or you can try the <a href="https://www.tasteatlas.com/most-popular-dishes-in-province-of-siena" target="_blank">traditional dishes of the province of Siena.</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Pray The Novena to St. Catherine of Siena</span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The novena starts on April 20th. Nine days prior to the feast day. Here are some links where you can find novena prayers to St. Catherine of Siena</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href=" https://www.praymorenovenas.com/st-catherine-of-siena-novena" target="_blank">Pray More Novenas</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://saintcatherineacademy.org/prayer-and-meditation/novena-in-honor-of-st-catherine-of-siena/" target="_blank">Saint Catherine Academy</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/prayers/view.cfm?id=1222" target="_blank">Catholic Culture</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I hope some of these ideas help you in celebrating the feast of St. Catherine of Siena. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6kAtPWb4Xuw/YIJi9aQteVI/AAAAAAAALZY/VCHPlI-XBu4M0F-emJHD8GajsCYOZELtACLcBGAsYHQ/s560/Custom%2Breeting%2Bcards%2B%252B%2Bart%2Bprints.png" imageanchor="1" style="font-weight: 700; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6kAtPWb4Xuw/YIJi9aQteVI/AAAAAAAALZY/VCHPlI-XBu4M0F-emJHD8GajsCYOZELtACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Custom%2Breeting%2Bcards%2B%252B%2Bart%2Bprints.png" width="320" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></div>Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-56199039549073232692021-04-13T01:02:00.002+08:002021-04-13T04:24:06.372+08:00Celebrating Good Shepherd Sunday With Family<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pHmrRxp6kDc/YHRX6GkWN1I/AAAAAAAALUE/PgbsLzptnsEgPMnTHkfVkVxkSHRjQsRvQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/celebrating.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pHmrRxp6kDc/YHRX6GkWN1I/AAAAAAAALUE/PgbsLzptnsEgPMnTHkfVkVxkSHRjQsRvQCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h360/celebrating.png" width="640"></a></div><br> <span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Here are a few ideas on how to celebrate Good Shepherd Sunday with your family.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Begin with the story</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The Sunday Gospel comes from the Gospel of John 10:11-18</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I am the good shepherd. A good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. A hired man, who is not a shepherd and whose sheep are not his own, sees a wolf coming and leaves the sheep and runs away, and the wolf catches and scatters them. This is because he works for pay and has no concern for the sheep. I am the good shepherd, and I know mine and mine know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I will lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. These also I must lead, and they will hear my voice, and there will be one flock, one shepherd. This is why the Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down on my own. I have power to lay it down, and power to take it up again. This command I have received from my Father.”</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Read the Gospel or story from your favorite Children's Bible or from the Bible itself. In our Charlotte Mason homeschool, we do narrations and so each member of the family, including the principal (Tatay aka Dad) narrates back. Then we each say a part or a phrase we liked best or has struck in some way. Then we explain why. The reading of the Sunday Gospel in our family happens after breakfast when everyone is done and before the table is cleared. For families with young children, this can be done while the younger ones are still eating (and probably still on their high chairs). I have a <a href="https://youtu.be/YDnpgiC9ezE">read-aloud video</a> of the Lion's Children's Bible on my YT channel if you want to listen and see pictures.</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Find The Sheep Game</b></span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Ask a family member to be the shepherd and another one to be the sheep.If you have a stuffed sheep toy, that can be hidden by another family member so the 'shepherd' can find his sheep. </span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c1VCQVLSatc/YHRfHre6L1I/AAAAAAAALUM/vI0gJyAKNMgrZ5rSbe6pzAQNpH_zkHqbACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/find%2Bthe%2Bsheep.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c1VCQVLSatc/YHRfHre6L1I/AAAAAAAALUM/vI0gJyAKNMgrZ5rSbe6pzAQNpH_zkHqbACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/find%2Bthe%2Bsheep.png" width="320"></a></div><br><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br></span><p></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Its very similar to the game of hide and seek but only two members play at a time. Have the 'shepherd' close his eyes and count up to twenty (or more for the littlest ones to hide) and then try to find the sheep. Play until all members had their turn.</span></span></p><p><span style="color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white;">If the littlest ones are doing the finding, the 'sheep' in hiding may say a little "Baaaa!" to hint the little shepherds of their hiding place.</span></span></p><p><b style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Table Activities</b></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Y</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">ounger children can color Jesus hugging a sheep which can be found in my <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FBJ6yvMyy7IUtgfk4e7Xfq-GSA8a7f2U/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Good Shepherd Sunday Activity pages</a> while the older ones can use it to practice their watercolor, colored pencil shading techniques and memorize the Scripture verse printed on the page.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3bDaU7ba7D0/YHRzuzRUcuI/AAAAAAAALUU/4S16Y5nFQWozA4o879kEeUcUyCioiWQmwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2000/Copy%2Bof%2BDivine%2BMercy%2BChaplet.png" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial; font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1414" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3bDaU7ba7D0/YHRzuzRUcuI/AAAAAAAALUU/4S16Y5nFQWozA4o879kEeUcUyCioiWQmwCLcBGAsYHQ/w141-h200/Copy%2Bof%2BDivine%2BMercy%2BChaplet.png" width="141"></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IEc2TKLmncA/YHRz7kvzVYI/AAAAAAAALUY/LbknRWdHLfUKh3dPCHQMQUHYTHPLKaAQACLcBGAsYHQ/s2000/Copy%2Bof%2BDivine%2BMercy%2BChaplet%2B%25281%2529.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1414" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IEc2TKLmncA/YHRz7kvzVYI/AAAAAAAALUY/LbknRWdHLfUKh3dPCHQMQUHYTHPLKaAQACLcBGAsYHQ/w141-h200/Copy%2Bof%2BDivine%2BMercy%2BChaplet%2B%25281%2529.png" width="141"></a></div> <br><p></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">There is also a maze, and prayers to cut and laminate or paste on your Liturgical Living, or prayer journals.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><p></p><p><b style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Thank Your Parish Priest, Pray For All Priests and Pray for Priestly Vocations</b></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: large;">You can also ask the whole family to make a Tank you card to give to your Parish priest. Since most of the world is still on lockdown or under enhanced restrictions, you can always take a photo and send it to your parish priest through email or other social media platforms.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZiHDyMWHo1M/YHR2171kdcI/AAAAAAAALUg/CXrlmJGylZUELCMDRIjTxQ3FXArAV7XPACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/good%2Bshepherd.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="113" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZiHDyMWHo1M/YHR2171kdcI/AAAAAAAALUg/CXrlmJGylZUELCMDRIjTxQ3FXArAV7XPACLcBGAsYHQ/w200-h113/good%2Bshepherd.png" width="200"></a></div><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br></span></p>Pray for your parish priest, and all the priest you know. Pray for the priest that baptized you, your children and your spouse - if you know them, Pray for the priest who officiated your marriage, your children's First Holy Communion and Confirmation. Pray all priests in general. Pray for them not only on Good Shepherd Sunday but on all days. Our priests are just like us, they get tempted and maybe much more because the enemy knows that they are doing God's work. </span><p></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: large;">You may find other prayers for priests and vocations here:</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/prayers/view.cfm?id=169</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">https://www.usccb.org/committees/clergy-consecrated-life-vocations/prayers-vocations</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">https://vocationnetwork.org/en/articles/show/489-prayer-card-pope-francis-prayer-for-vocations</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br></span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>CELEBRATE WITH FOOD</b></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: large;">If you are up to the challenge, why nor cook <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSQyKZPlAl8" target="_blank">roasted lamb</a> for Sunday dinner. My good friend Kuya Mccoy has a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSQyKZPlAl8" target="_blank">YT video tutorial</a>. You might want to try it.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I will try to make shepherd's pie this year. The recipes I am choosing from are fond here:</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/recipes/view.cfm?id=1543</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">https://www.simplecatholicliving.com/uncategorized/shepherds-pie-recipe</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br></span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Have a Blessed Good Shepherd Sunday. Please Let me know in the comments how yours went. I would love to hear from you.</span></span></p><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #111111; font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: large;">God bless you!</span></span></div><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #111111; font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PDflpTmNPuA/YHR8LrSXtXI/AAAAAAAALUo/CQhtYW4jdnkT-1Q6o3Ec8xbTM9em6FGJwCLcBGAsYHQ/s560/Custom%2Breeting%2Bcards%2B%252B%2Bart%2Bprints.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PDflpTmNPuA/YHR8LrSXtXI/AAAAAAAALUo/CQhtYW4jdnkT-1Q6o3Ec8xbTM9em6FGJwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Custom%2Breeting%2Bcards%2B%252B%2Bart%2Bprints.png" width="320"></a></div><br></span></span><p></p>Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-52531093575776658862020-12-03T05:23:00.006+08:002023-11-08T21:42:23.437+08:00Celebrating the Feast of St. Nicholas<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-16hQ0FStEWM/X8fhdDX3KsI/AAAAAAAAK-I/gPVMES9SwNMuywM7iGnsdU8H1uEDraI9ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/CELEBRATING%2BTHE%2BFEAST%2B%25281%2529.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-16hQ0FStEWM/X8fhdDX3KsI/AAAAAAAAK-I/gPVMES9SwNMuywM7iGnsdU8H1uEDraI9ACLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h360/CELEBRATING%2BTHE%2BFEAST%2B%25281%2529.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"><i>This post contains affiliate links.</i></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We have celebrated the feast of St. Nicholas since our son was 2 years old. It was just putting our shoes under the Christmas tree on the eve of December 5 and then waking up to find treats and small toys the next morning. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XRLQrJUqmws/X8f7BaPWyGI/AAAAAAAAK-Y/zNpMJfkORog4_0Inpl1giM8ZHb9m8q2pgCLcBGAsYHQ/s960/24796283_10209029722654221_7970250436282499621_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XRLQrJUqmws/X8f7BaPWyGI/AAAAAAAAK-Y/zNpMJfkORog4_0Inpl1giM8ZHb9m8q2pgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/24796283_10209029722654221_7970250436282499621_n.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My shoes, yes I'm just a size 5 and our Son's shoes when he was 3 years old. <br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The following year, I prepared by purchasing The Story of St. Nicholas at The Learning Basket Shop. This was also the time when I began making St. Nicholas wooden saint dolls. There may be some more at TLB Shop. So on the eve of St. Nicholas' feast day, we read the book together before bedtime and put out our shoes. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TIFpqg6tYbY/X8f7iiCz3MI/AAAAAAAAK-k/DASp9Lafa-sqJPcj4T9aOJFsdik9Y_mJACLcBGAsYHQ/s960/24775202_10209029722134208_5181004290082499079_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TIFpqg6tYbY/X8f7iiCz3MI/AAAAAAAAK-k/DASp9Lafa-sqJPcj4T9aOJFsdik9Y_mJACLcBGAsYHQ/w200-h200/24775202_10209029722134208_5181004290082499079_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Djal7QzgcfA/X8f65l6_IfI/AAAAAAAAK-U/8pBOgcz9T4MNu7ZcyDA3YGinG9xM3gwngCLcBGAsYHQ/s1080/24059517_1918377404843089_6996901676973479197_o.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Djal7QzgcfA/X8f65l6_IfI/AAAAAAAAK-U/8pBOgcz9T4MNu7ZcyDA3YGinG9xM3gwngCLcBGAsYHQ/w200-h200/24059517_1918377404843089_6996901676973479197_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Since we were talking about St. Nicholas, my mama told me that the wooden bas relief on the porch of my grand parents' house was of St. Nicholas. So when we went to their home, I took a photo.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l39EuNOiJcM/X8f8WaSk20I/AAAAAAAAK-w/U9O4vxCLeLY48ly-t8YKe9f9i4V6DiCtwCLcBGAsYHQ/s960/24862119_10209029721654196_1902578609226894191_n%2B%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="958" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l39EuNOiJcM/X8f8WaSk20I/AAAAAAAAK-w/U9O4vxCLeLY48ly-t8YKe9f9i4V6DiCtwCLcBGAsYHQ/w399-h400/24862119_10209029721654196_1902578609226894191_n%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="399" /></a></div><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>I pointed and showed it to my 3 year old but he was not interested. Maybe because it was not colorful. I asked my mama why my lola (grandma) had a St. Nicholas, and mama said that my lola loved the saints and always wanted her apos (grandchildren) to know about the saints.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">In the next two years, our celebration of St. Nicholas' feast day remained the same. But this year, I plan to have more activities.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> Since we have been drawing the Saints since we started homeschooling in Kindergarten, We will finally, draw St. Nicholas in our Saint journals. We will once again read the book we have on St. Nicholas but this time go deeper into the virtues the Saint has emulated. I made some activities for my 6 year old to do on the day of St. Nicholas' feast and I would like to share it with you. This can be downloaded for FREE until December 5, midnight, Doha time.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">And since we also do Geography with our Saint Studies, we will be finding Lycia Where St. Nicholas was born, on the map. Of course we will be looking at Myra too.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">To celebrate with food, we will making oatmeal cookies to go with our warm milk for 'Tea Time' on the day of St. Nicholas' feast.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Sharing is caring! The St. Nicholas Activity Pack will only be free until December 5. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I would love to know how you celebrate St. Nicholas' feast day. Share them in the comments?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">God bless you.</span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1u1DBkaupfB9sGgAQ2qrBNki0BKRsIhdv/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1414" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SnUHNiUDzJ4/X8gCJEHG96I/AAAAAAAAK_A/bJxEfOnDrWgnfXe5sFL6loSJPulBhKZ3ACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/St%2BNicholas%2Bprintable%2B%25281%2529.png" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/St-Nicholas-Pack-6803130" target="_blank">Click here to download the <br />St. Nicholas Activity Pack<br /></a></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /></span><p></p>
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</iframe>Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-33496975944332585242020-11-20T02:44:00.003+08:002021-11-21T18:42:55.895+08:00Start A Family Advent Tradition<p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b1eCo5b8Xd8/X7Igqr81WcI/AAAAAAAAK3o/QWuXg-1rxJU_6ZQ7zdCgIKB-FrgtyD2kwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Start%2BA%2BFamily%2BAdvent%2BTradition.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b1eCo5b8Xd8/X7Igqr81WcI/AAAAAAAAK3o/QWuXg-1rxJU_6ZQ7zdCgIKB-FrgtyD2kwCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h360/Start%2BA%2BFamily%2BAdvent%2BTradition.png" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Advent
is my most favorite Liturgical season because it means preparing. And I love planning and preparing! We awaited to
take our adopted son home during Advent so it is at this time of the Liturgical
year I am most, you may say, sentimental?<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>The Advent Wreath Prayer</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">My
husband and I did The Advent Wreath Prayers daily; like what my Mama, Papa, brothers and I did when we were young and so we continue to uphold this tradition
with our son. We use the Advent Wreath Prayer Guide by The Family Prayer Group which can be bought at St. Paul's bookstore in the Philippines. St. Paul's has an online store where you may purchase these booklets.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QU8xtIQcaZc/X7a5eQYLwdI/AAAAAAAAK6w/0h9UkRAXCEw-S__0W6BHQjh7K3KwFT2jACLcBGAsYHQ/s526/24785358_451416111926770_4151471679172618811_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="526" data-original-width="526" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QU8xtIQcaZc/X7a5eQYLwdI/AAAAAAAAK6w/0h9UkRAXCEw-S__0W6BHQjh7K3KwFT2jACLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h640/24785358_451416111926770_4151471679172618811_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My Mom's Advent Wreath. She made it. All our Advent wreaths through the years when we were growing up were made by my Mama. Now you see where I get my crafting skills?<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>25 Books of Christmas Advent Countdown</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Another
fun family advent tradition we will be doing this year is the 25 Books of Christmas. We did it
for the first time, last year and it was a hit. Some families like to have
their books wrapped in fancy gift wrapping or tissue and it looks awesome! Our
family, tried to be as frugal as we can last year, so I wrapped the books in old
newspapers and magazine pages. Label each book with numbers 1-25. You may use the books you have at home already or new ones, fresh from the bookstore. I used the books (second hand) we ordered from <a href="https://www.thelearningbasket.com/store" target="_blank">The Learning Basket Shop</a> and Book Boutique PH last year, plus some books we already had. This year we have some books from <a href="https://pumplepie.com/" target="_blank">Pumplepie Books and Happiness</a>, and The Learning Basket. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E-mnt3133z0/X7a6uiKVggI/AAAAAAAAK68/QvRB18FvjVcWwfn2kxtu6JfZIIivMLetQCLcBGAsYHQ/s720/80450919_10213477573767719_6517646239280922624_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E-mnt3133z0/X7a6uiKVggI/AAAAAAAAK68/QvRB18FvjVcWwfn2kxtu6JfZIIivMLetQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/80450919_10213477573767719_6517646239280922624_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Book number 25, Christmas Night. Pardon the PJs<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>The Jesse Tree</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Another
Advent family tradition is the Jesse Tree. We are doing this for the second time
this year. The first time we did it was because we did not have a Christmas
tree yet and had lived in a rented room here in Doha, Qatar. This year, we are
making our Jesse Tree out of a kitchen towel tube and barbeque sticks and will be making another set to hang on our 5ft. tall Christmas tree<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I
would like to share with you the Jesse Tree Ornaments Template I made. You may
do the coloring and cutting activity as a family too. I also encourage you to
be creative in making your own Jesse Tree.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">You can find the printable and a little explanation about The Jesse Tree in <a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/2020/11/family-advent-traditions-jesse-tree.html" target="_blank">this post.</a></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C8BzWyp94ok/X7a7EdHkrmI/AAAAAAAAK7E/V8bCT8MkLAURqcdhZNl16vh2HIzoSkDmgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0348.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C8BzWyp94ok/X7a7EdHkrmI/AAAAAAAAK7E/V8bCT8MkLAURqcdhZNl16vh2HIzoSkDmgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0348.JPG" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span face=""Century Gothic",sans-serif"><b>Family Advent Pack</b></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span face=""Century Gothic",sans-serif">For families who are just starting, I have made a <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iQrIn9MKrEUcKKZ-Y15vTqlDCNgVbf_-/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Family Advent pack</a> for you to download and print. It has a calendar and weekly planner for the month of December so you can do your Advent countdown or plan your family's activities. </span><span face=""Century Gothic", sans-serif">It also has some coloring pages for the children as they learn about the Advent Wreath. I have also included a set of blank prayer cards which you can write your prayers to the Child Jesus and place near his crib in your Nativity Set </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span face=""Century Gothic", sans-serif"><b>The St. Andrew Christmas Novena</b></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span face=""Century Gothic", sans-serif">The Christmas Novena by St. Andrew begins on St. Andrew's feast day. The first Sunday of Advent usually begins on the Sunday closest to November 30, which is St. Andrew's feast day. St. Andrew was the first apostle whom Jesus called. And traditions tells that he composed this prayer. I have included the St. Andrew's Christmas Novena in the Advent pack so you can also pray it as a family.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span face=""Century Gothic", sans-serif"><b>O Antiphons</b></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span face=""Century Gothic", sans-serif">The seven O Antiphons is recited in the Liturgy of the hours beginning December 17. It is recited at Vespers and so we will add this to our Nightly Advent prayers this year. I have also included small O Antiphon cards which you can read during your family night prayers or also include in your Advent Wreath prayers.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span face=""Century Gothic", sans-serif"><b>Get Started!</b></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span face=""Century Gothic", sans-serif">I encourage you to start at least one Family Advent Tradition. Your children will remember and cherish these more than the store bought gifts. I guarantee that. Because I am continuing the family traditions which my family did. It has helped my deepen my relationship with God, with my parents and brothers; and now my very own family.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span face=""Century Gothic", sans-serif">God bless you!</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span face=""Century Gothic", sans-serif">Weena</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span face=""Century Gothic", sans-serif"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span face=""Century Gothic", sans-serif">P.S. Sharing is caring! If you want to share the Advent Family Pack with others, please send them this link and not the file. Thank you!</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span face=""Century Gothic", sans-serif"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0CqNtVWG9LQ/X7a8o5Xa-XI/AAAAAAAAK7Q/KoUPXmF2FdAuAjDiatlInl1RArhup0ybACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0350.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0CqNtVWG9LQ/X7a8o5Xa-XI/AAAAAAAAK7Q/KoUPXmF2FdAuAjDiatlInl1RArhup0ybACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0350.JPG" /></a></span></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><span face=""Century Gothic", sans-serif"><br /></span></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span face=""Century Gothic", sans-serif"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span face=""Century Gothic", sans-serif"><br /></span></span></p><br /><p></p>Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-5575304482681708922020-11-16T16:31:00.004+08:002023-07-22T22:59:14.161+08:00Family Advent Traditions: The Jesse Tree<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rnT1DAAa4C8/X7I2ex5SaBI/AAAAAAAAK4c/Y_oS5hx3Zn8UKhotJSbKbi4pK8SlBucAwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Family%2BAdvent%2BTradition_.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rnT1DAAa4C8/X7I2ex5SaBI/AAAAAAAAK4c/Y_oS5hx3Zn8UKhotJSbKbi4pK8SlBucAwCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h360/Family%2BAdvent%2BTradition_.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The Jesse Tree is an Advent tradition that goes back to the medieval times. It was used to help Christians remember the stories from the creation until Jesus' birth. This tradition was named as such after the father of David, who became king of Israel. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"> “A shoot shall come out of the stock of Jesse, and a branch shall</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial;"> grow out of his roots.” </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial;">Isaiah 11:1</span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">In the olden times, The Jesse Tree could only be found on stained glass windows in churches and cathedrals or on tapestries. </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uw0oHr4g7Tc/X7Itz9BK6vI/AAAAAAAAK30/lsUCea0CbuQuXhbkMQvDSJYi6hKOIK8VACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/the-tree-of-jesse-genealogical-tree-sprouting-from-jesses-loins-d1669c.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="424" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uw0oHr4g7Tc/X7Itz9BK6vI/AAAAAAAAK30/lsUCea0CbuQuXhbkMQvDSJYi6hKOIK8VACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/the-tree-of-jesse-genealogical-tree-sprouting-from-jesses-loins-d1669c.jpg" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); background-color: white; border-bottom-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); border-bottom-style: solid; border-image: initial; border-left-color: initial; border-left-style: initial; border-right-color: initial; border-right-style: initial; border-top-color: initial; border-top-style: initial; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400; line-height: 3.2rem; margin: 10px 0px 1rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1rem; text-align: center; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The Tree of Jesse: genealogical tree sprouting from Jesse's loins</span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6NcGbCEVhbo/X7It3-I1FnI/AAAAAAAAK34/Nxw3GEQczY8FwIrApgyXoMAa0tNIRSpIwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1024/tree-of-jesse-from-bl-arundel-307-f-16v-15bccb.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="814" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6NcGbCEVhbo/X7It3-I1FnI/AAAAAAAAK34/Nxw3GEQczY8FwIrApgyXoMAa0tNIRSpIwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/tree-of-jesse-from-bl-arundel-307-f-16v-15bccb.jpg" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><h1 class="_1p8yfg m-b h4" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); background-color: white; border-bottom-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); border-bottom-style: solid; border-image: initial; border-left-color: initial; border-left-style: initial; border-right-color: initial; border-right-style: initial; border-top-color: initial; border-top-style: initial; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 3.2rem; margin: 10px 0px 1rem; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1rem; text-align: center; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="font-size: small;">Tree of Jesse from BL Arundel 307, f. 16v</span></h1><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;">Today, families can use various resources on the web to practice this tradition. The ornaments can be from paper printouts to painted wooden disks.</span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Our family began this tradition two years ago. My son and I thought of making a small Christmas tree at that time. Of course what's a tree without ornaments? I decided that they would be Jesus' family.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Below this post you will find a link to a free downloadable template of The Jesse Tree ornament which I made. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Ways to use the Jesse Tree Ornament Template</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">If you have young kids who love to color, give them the pages of the printout to color themselves first. This would keep them quiet for a few minutes! For the littlest ones, maybe a few seconds? Allow them to ask questions if they are curious about a symbol or a character, but don't tell the whole story! Tell them that you will learn more about each person as Christmas approaches.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pG7SucireH4/X7Iz12xloII/AAAAAAAAK4E/ZZPlvrzf7P0Lmz8sd_jDDPqqm0FnTxQegCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0348.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pG7SucireH4/X7Iz12xloII/AAAAAAAAK4E/ZZPlvrzf7P0Lmz8sd_jDDPqqm0FnTxQegCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0348.JPG" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Some families use the Jesse Tree also as an Advent countdown. They would hang one ornament on the Christmas tree or a smaller tree (may be a fallen branch) and read from the Bible. If you have little ones, a Children's Bible would usually have the stories of Jesus' family. After all, This is the love story of God and His people. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vH70kHS4EIQ/X7Iz-gM3NqI/AAAAAAAAK4I/3qbyzR5Z9HMcAnZESR_zsC9wn5RUtpqPACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0350.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vH70kHS4EIQ/X7Iz-gM3NqI/AAAAAAAAK4I/3qbyzR5Z9HMcAnZESR_zsC9wn5RUtpqPACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0350.JPG" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">After you have colored the ornaments, you may cut each one and glue the character and their symbol back to back. The older children can also do the cutting but of course the little one who are willing also can. Then punch a little hole on the top and put a string or ribbon. You may want to keep the other ornaments away from the very young and curious in your family and take one out each day. Take turns in hanging the ornaments.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NS0L1NWJK60/X7I0FSvk_MI/AAAAAAAAK4M/fs9MeLtcuVISxzVa0klCxrttG08E_nDKwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0349.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NS0L1NWJK60/X7I0FSvk_MI/AAAAAAAAK4M/fs9MeLtcuVISxzVa0klCxrttG08E_nDKwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0349.JPG" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Choose a special time to do this tradition as a family, after the Advent Prayer in the evening perhaps? Then read the story of each character together. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Let me know in the comments how you did your Jesse Tree this Christmas, perhaps you have other ideas you could share?</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Or tell me about the best (and worst - crafting can go wrong with the young and the curious) that has happened in you family this Advent.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">God bless you</span></div><div>Weena</div><div><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">More resources for The Jesse Tree</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">https://www.loyolapress.com/catholic-resources/liturgical-year/advent/the-jesse-tree/</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">https://www.whychristmas.com/customs/jessetrees.shtml</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">https://www.catholicicing.com/jesse-trees/</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-083pAbUTsY0/X7I3kxcXO_I/AAAAAAAAK4o/1YGBPpO6TbsyxWul218ejCnUg1MVd6sCACLcBGAsYHQ/s1200/The%2BJesse.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-083pAbUTsY0/X7I3kxcXO_I/AAAAAAAAK4o/1YGBPpO6TbsyxWul218ejCnUg1MVd6sCACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/The%2BJesse.png" /></a></div><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Click here to download </span><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HrkyvUavK6DglX-vyG6J4qwDyxpeCMtx/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">The Jesse Tree printable Template</a></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Erratum: The symbols for Jacob, Abraham, and Isaac have been mixed up. The correct symbols are:</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Jacob = Ladder</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Abraham = tent</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Isaac = sheep</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/prayers-and.html" target="_blank">Find more FREE printables here</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/prayers-and.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuz1UgbNy8cFJYF1X9SN1FBAGBRV73wOr6hsA5YFNebj8CPVBhdzS95AFrnNDkkB8Cflq6B7434Xj_9w0OaUdmIMmDEeI0rszbl0REURF_H1K2Q5KhV1eHnANlc7v_ejTSnltZaiwoLsoT820rA1OwjC1e3uczxGoy7oDSFZPE3CnJtd_rRgr5GgEEPZYD/s320/teacher%20weena;s%20(1).png" width="320" /></a></div><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p></div>Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-27305600234004918702020-09-21T03:18:00.008+08:002021-09-12T22:42:51.425+08:00St. Pio of Pietrelcina: Simple Ways To Celebrate His Feast Day<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wHdcyNrG4pc/X2OZ0Ph5l7I/AAAAAAAAKok/JTPdZ0rM3BwISYhKXaIZFYVtq5NOty7wwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/St.%2BPio%2Bof%2BPietrelcina%2B%25282%2529.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wHdcyNrG4pc/X2OZ0Ph5l7I/AAAAAAAAKok/JTPdZ0rM3BwISYhKXaIZFYVtq5NOty7wwCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h360/St.%2BPio%2Bof%2BPietrelcina%2B%25282%2529.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Here are some simple ways a family can celebrate the feast of St. Pio of Pietrelcina. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Read- a- loud life story of St. Pio</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Young and old children alike will love a family read a loud of the life of this saint. So get cozy on the sofa or bed, pick up a Stories of the Saints book and read.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Here are some books you might want to check out:</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5ptgBOf55wY/X2Oc_DehKjI/AAAAAAAAKow/2G0q5bUXOFIF5UvSVjk8zyH4mn0hEyY0ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20200913_214705.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5ptgBOf55wY/X2Oc_DehKjI/AAAAAAAAKow/2G0q5bUXOFIF5UvSVjk8zyH4mn0hEyY0ACLcBGAsYHQ/w150-h200/20200913_214705.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2RCj2xC" target="_blank">Stories of the Saints by Margaret Mcallister</a></span><p></p><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: arial; font-size: medium; https: //drive.google.com/file/d/15yXfcREZJv62PuA1oVY3JyuV1ah67hEy/view?usp=sharing; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=weenac-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0899425313" style="border: none; margin: 0px;" width="1" /><img border="0" src="https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=0899425313&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=weenac-20" /></span><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium; https: //drive.google.com/file/d/15yXfcREZJv62PuA1oVY3JyuV1ah67hEy/view?usp=sharing;"><a href="https://amzn.to/33OwPHj" target="_blank">P</a></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium; https: //drive.google.com/file/d/15yXfcREZJv62PuA1oVY3JyuV1ah67hEy/view?usp=sharing;"><a href="https://amzn.to/33OwPHj" target="_blank">ad</a></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium; https: //drive.google.com/file/d/15yXfcREZJv62PuA1oVY3JyuV1ah67hEy/view?usp=sharing;"><a href="https://amzn.to/33OwPHj" target="_blank">r</a></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium; https: //drive.google.com/file/d/15yXfcREZJv62PuA1oVY3JyuV1ah67hEy/view?usp=sharing;"><a href="https://amzn.to/33OwPHj" target="_blank">e Pio (St. Jose</a></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium; https: //drive.google.com/file/d/15yXfcREZJv62PuA1oVY3JyuV1ah67hEy/view?usp=sharing;"><a href="https://amzn.to/33OwPHj" target="_blank">ph K</a></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium; https: //drive.google.com/file/d/15yXfcREZJv62PuA1oVY3JyuV1ah67hEy/view?usp=sharing;"><a href="https://amzn.to/33OwPHj" target="_blank">ids Books)</a></span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Here is a read- a loud video from the book Stories of the Saints</span></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2m7aFlKVdr4" width="320" youtube-src-id="2m7aFlKVdr4"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Food</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Since St. Pio is from Italy, We will just have the family favorite - Spaghetti with lots of parmesan cheese. The original recipe is from my Mama with a little tweak. Its an all beef and tomato sauce with lots of dried oregano and garlic. I put in maybe half a head of garlic to 1/2 kilo of ground beef.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We will also make my good friend's cappuccino recipe, because the capuchin order always reminds me of a hot mug of cappuccino. Well, cappuccino for the husband and myself and hot cocoa for our son. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Nanay Pia's cappuccino recipe is thinner than latte which means lesser milk and more water added to one or two shots of espresso. And of course, the cinnamon. Add more to your liking. I will be using stevia sweetener for this recipe.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Arts and Crafts</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We will be making a mini book this year with quotes from St. Pio so we can pray. I made a PDF file template to printout and assemble. You can download the PDF file for FREE <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/15yXfcREZJv62PuA1oVY3JyuV1ah67hEy/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">here.</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/15yXfcREZJv62PuA1oVY3JyuV1ah67hEy/view?usp=sharing" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QnsLt4bDct4/X2em_8ZZbHI/AAAAAAAAKp8/s2JB93nQGvw6oJQJoUBINZpn32l5_8N7QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/St.Pio%2527s%2BQuotes.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/15yXfcREZJv62PuA1oVY3JyuV1ah67hEy/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Click here to download</a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We will be writing our favorite quotes from St. Pio in the mini book and will use it as we pray our Morning prayers before a homeschool lesson.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Coloring Page for the little ones</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">For the little ones, they can color Saint Pio while the older ones work on their Saint Pio’s quotes mini book. They can call her while the rest of the family talks about the life of Saint Pio.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The PDF file of the coloring page can be downloaded <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fpsXqTZO_b0DJJAvWPeza4rw-rJEbBob/view?usp=drivesdk" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R7hqG4S4AfA/YT4Q3UO3RXI/AAAAAAAAMLs/l0-poLRIuFAEo-LpJiTJjBPvbh8EUIhXgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2000/D6DC7F7B-E671-45F7-BD9B-6476312F583C.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1414" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R7hqG4S4AfA/YT4Q3UO3RXI/AAAAAAAAMLs/l0-poLRIuFAEo-LpJiTJjBPvbh8EUIhXgCLcBGAsYHQ/w226-h320/D6DC7F7B-E671-45F7-BD9B-6476312F583C.jpeg" width="226" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fpsXqTZO_b0DJJAvWPeza4rw-rJEbBob/view?usp=drivesdk" target="_blank">Click here to download</a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mhSxO7krqYk/X2ep7H15JCI/AAAAAAAAKqM/TQftNZ8nUxY1QH1a5Bu_yulNSwroWErjgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20200731_113942_0000.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mhSxO7krqYk/X2ep7H15JCI/AAAAAAAAKqM/TQftNZ8nUxY1QH1a5Bu_yulNSwroWErjgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/20200731_113942_0000.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I do hope these ideas will help you to celebrate St. Pio's feast on September 23. </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sPgihweL0vI/X2eqZJ8_f-I/AAAAAAAAKqY/7iVU1cHObJwsesyQbVmeAdl9jp6YKYv5QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1200/St%2BPio%2B%25281%2529.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sPgihweL0vI/X2eqZJ8_f-I/AAAAAAAAKqY/7iVU1cHObJwsesyQbVmeAdl9jp6YKYv5QCLcBGAsYHQ/w426-h640/St%2BPio%2B%25281%2529.png" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Share the love!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Don't forget to tag @everythingisgodsgift or @teacherweena on your photos of your crafts and on FB and @everythngsgrace and @teacherweena on Instagram.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">You may also send me photos on my inbox and I will feature them on my wall.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">God bless you!</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Weena</span></span></div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-63270231314628020202020-05-27T18:39:00.005+08:002023-05-24T17:28:07.805+08:00Celebrating Pentecost With Family<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KV2mavpALR0/XszTOf0h0jI/AAAAAAAAKI8/ULGMwKPwJAEPQFUVtNxfV7oFVKmmpSiLQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/PENTECOST.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KV2mavpALR0/XszTOf0h0jI/AAAAAAAAKI8/ULGMwKPwJAEPQFUVtNxfV7oFVKmmpSiLQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/PENTECOST.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">In 2019 to 2022, the entire world experienced a pandemic which brought back many souls to God. Whether it be returning back to the Faith or 'returning to The Creator' </span></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">So as a family, it is apt that we continue to celebrate Pentecost at home while celebrating in our parishes not just by attending mass on Pentecost Sunday but also by joining in the Novenas and retreats your parish has for all parishioners. It's good to be back in the physical church, isn't it?</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="color: #999999;">We are all still under ECQ and just like Easter, our family will be celebrating Pentecost inside our home. I have planned a few activities and a simple menu to make this church feast memorable and meaningful. Teo and I will again go live on my FB page to do some Pentecost Arts and Crafts. Let me share what Tatay and Noli planned but first a little information about Pentecost to share with the family during the course of the season.</span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">PENTECOST is a celebrated on the 49th day (or Seventh Sunday) after Easter. It is when the Holy Spirit Descended on the apostles. It is the birthday of the church! The word Pentecost is a Greek word meaning 50th day. At mass, the priest wears red vestments. </span></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oOK5R1bKHGE/Xs4_pMBkSEI/AAAAAAAAKLI/kRtE6LDavTEYPvgsSG818lBdpj4PBUqgQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/20200526_172159.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oOK5R1bKHGE/Xs4_pMBkSEI/AAAAAAAAKLI/kRtE6LDavTEYPvgsSG818lBdpj4PBUqgQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/20200526_172159.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;">Teo's acrylic painting of the Descent of The Holy Spirit, 2019</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>Reading of the Gospel:</b> </span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Everyday, when we are about to finish breakfast, I read the Gospel for the day and each one of us tries to narrate back what we heard. Teo will say a few phrases - verbatim, and then add a couple of sentences in his own words. I am next and then it is Tatay Noli's turn. </span></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">On Sunday, we will do the same thing we always do. I think its a good activity to listen to God's word as a family first thing on this day as it sets the tone for the rest of the day.</span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><i><span class="text John-20-19" id="en-NABRE-31206" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">9 </span>On the evening of that first day of the week,<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NABRE-31206A" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NABRE-31206A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> when the doors were locked, where the disciples<span class="footnote" data-fn="#fen-NABRE-31206a" data-link="[<a href="#fen-NABRE-31206a" title="See footnote a">a</a>]" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+20%3A19-23&version=NABRE#fen-NABRE-31206a" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #b34b2c; cursor: pointer; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: top;" title="See footnote a">a</a>]</span> were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” </span><span style="background-color: white;"></span><span class="text John-20-20" id="en-NABRE-31207" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">20 </span>When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side.<span class="footnote" data-fn="#fen-NABRE-31207b" data-link="[<a href="#fen-NABRE-31207b" title="See footnote b">b</a>]" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+20%3A19-23&version=NABRE#fen-NABRE-31207b" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #b34b2c; cursor: pointer; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: top;" title="See footnote b">b</a>]</span> The disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord.<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NABRE-31207B" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NABRE-31207B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> </span><span style="background-color: white;"></span><span class="text John-20-21" id="en-NABRE-31208" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">21 </span><span class="footnote" data-fn="#fen-NABRE-31208c" data-link="[<a href="#fen-NABRE-31208c" title="See footnote c">c</a>]" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+20%3A19-23&version=NABRE#fen-NABRE-31208c" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #b34b2c; cursor: pointer; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: top;" title="See footnote c">c</a>]</span>[Jesus] said to them again,<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NABRE-31208C" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NABRE-31208C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” </span><span style="background-color: white;"></span><span class="text John-20-22" id="en-NABRE-31209" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">22 </span><span class="footnote" data-fn="#fen-NABRE-31209d" data-link="[<a href="#fen-NABRE-31209d" title="See footnote d">d</a>]" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+20%3A19-23&version=NABRE#fen-NABRE-31209d" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #b34b2c; cursor: pointer; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: top;" title="See footnote d">d</a>]</span>And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them,<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NABRE-31209D" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NABRE-31209D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> “Receive the holy Spirit. </span><span style="background-color: white;"></span><span class="text John-20-23" id="en-NABRE-31210" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">23 </span><span class="footnote" data-fn="#fen-NABRE-31210e" data-link="[<a href="#fen-NABRE-31210e" title="See footnote e">e</a>]" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+20%3A19-23&version=NABRE#fen-NABRE-31210e" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #b34b2c; cursor: pointer; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: top;" title="See footnote e">e</a>]</span><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NABRE-31210E" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NABRE-31210E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span>Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.”</span></i></span></span><br />
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<span class="text John-20-23" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">You may also read the story of the coming of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1-13) as a family. We plan to do this before lunch time after we pray the Regina Coeli (Queen of Heaven); wearing the tongues of fire hats we made last year.</span></span></span></span></div>
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I also <b>read a loud a short poem</b> and we sing (or learn) a hymn during morning basket. I have chosen to read <a href="https://www.ourcatholicprayers.com/veni-sancte-spiritus.html">The Golden Sequence or </a><a href="https://www.ourcatholicprayers.com/veni-sancte-spiritus.html">"Veni Sancte Spiritus"</a>, it is a sequence prescribed in the Roman Liturgy for the Masses of Pentecost and its octave, exclusive of the following Sunday. (source:<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veni_Sancte_Spiritus">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veni_Sancte_Spiritus</a>)</span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I have made a poster so we can recite it everyday for the whole week. You can download and print a copy for yourself <a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/prayers-and.html">here</a></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">For elementary aged children, you may want to do copywork for this. I have a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Catholic-Copy-Work-Blank-Pages-7241430" target="_blank">Catholic Copy work blank pages printable at my TpT store</a>. It has a few graphics and white spaces so the children can color or draw.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gEtxHYlxYIxsUJUgIHroEaX1iOSBXxjq/view?usp=sharing">Veni, Sancte Spiritus</a></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kV7fpglwp0z0GvP3sFKHZy9AJT55TGQy/view?usp=sharing">Come, Holy Spirit</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b> Arts & Crafts. </b>In 2018, our family made tongues of fire hats. You can find the materials and how to make it, <a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/2020/05/tongues-of-fire-wearable-craft-activity.html">here</a>.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">The following year, we used the tongues of fire templates to make paper flames and write down each Gift of The Holy Spirit on it. They are still hung on our son's wall to this day.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWMSjSpqVTDOprBHJewkyiR7WKhYMp1lmJF6RYCymt-CAj6suYk8RBiOO0egzRlVowRSPrcs10cqL9LNtbdl3TJdd8ZF4yW_he0yhaWzYWUIUgixvlyKtoihtXmJqDZpIi_C5fKkYjH6rSl7sZgqbzhBfw_kqR8FWm04fx1pUGfzdMeb3yfZOoVkhC5Q/s4624/20230524_110003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2604" data-original-width="4624" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWMSjSpqVTDOprBHJewkyiR7WKhYMp1lmJF6RYCymt-CAj6suYk8RBiOO0egzRlVowRSPrcs10cqL9LNtbdl3TJdd8ZF4yW_he0yhaWzYWUIUgixvlyKtoihtXmJqDZpIi_C5fKkYjH6rSl7sZgqbzhBfw_kqR8FWm04fx1pUGfzdMeb3yfZOoVkhC5Q/s320/20230524_110003.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">He goes back to it once in a while, but now we are training to be <i>dragon slayers</i>, it will be handy most of the time.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">We are currently listening to Sir Roland, the Dragon Slayer on <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/38WA3djuSkII5M3p1GyN6S?si=6527713ffa2e4b79" target="_blank">Catholic Sprouts</a> and both my son and I are hooked! </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Already, I am practicing my morning 'wake-up line' "Rise and shine my night in shining armor! We're slaying dragons today!" - I have always wanted to say that. Really. Now I get to say it each morning - until our son is old enough to think its corny.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/2020/05/tongues-of-fire-wearable-craft-activity.html">Click here to go to Tongues of Fire Hat activity</a></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/2020/05/tongues-of-fire-wearable-craft-activity.html">Tongues of fire hats</a></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/2020/05/gifts-of-holy-spirit-craft-activity.html"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--6mL4V9__j8/Xs5Bjor__TI/AAAAAAAAKLU/ls9CPx1c1RkKb-c88S7DJYE2oH8a89IWACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/giftsBG.png" width="213" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/2020/05/gifts-of-holy-spirit-craft-activity.html">Click here to go to the Gifts of the Holy Spirit activity</a></span></td></tr>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b>Look at Art. </b>If making art is not your family's favorite thing, you may want to try looking at art. at <a href="https://watch.formed.org/browse" target="_blank">Formed.org website</a>, there is a show that talks about <a href="https://watch.formed.org/sacred-art" target="_blank">Sacred Art</a> and allows you to look at the art of the greatest artists ever while reflecting on Scripture or a dogma, maybe. If you have not yet joined the community yet, I encourage you to do so because it is rich with God's word. There is also <a href="https://watch.formed.org/sacred-art-for-kids-1" target="_blank">Sacred Art For Kids</a> so the little ones can also join in the fun. This week, before Pentecost, we will watch <a href="https://watch.formed.org/videos/sacred-art-pentecost" target="_blank">Pentecost, Sacred Art</a>. Let me tell you, this activity will make the Gospel come alive and each member will have something to ponder on.</span></div><div><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b>Food. </b>We will have pancakes for breakfast. I will just stick a candle on a stack of pancakes and light it. Then, we will sìng the happy birthday song for all of us, the Church.</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b> </b>For our lunch, I will make spaghetti (which is red, to represent fire) with lots of cheese on top (which is yellow, another color of fire). I will use tuna in water for the meat and will also add minced green and red bell pepper to the sauce. I usually use canned plum tomatoes and half a brick of tomato paste to make the sauce for 800g pack of pasta. Five to 6 cloves of minced garlic and an onion goes into the sauce too. Our family loves garlic. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9oB3wrPvq0">Here's another version of a red sauce pasta recipe</a>. Cooked by Johanna, the youngest daughter of our good friends in the community, Mccoy and Lhenne.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>Listen to Gregorian Chants</b></span><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GrQJGQWfd8">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GrQJGQWfd8</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33XotuYs-io&t=2s">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33XotuYs-io&t=2s</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Here is where I get some of the activities we do and recipes we cook during feasts.</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><a href="https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/activities/view.cfm?id=102">https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/activities/view.cfm?id=102</a></span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Here is where our family got some amazing Pentecost activities in the past years.</span><br />
<a href="https://www.catholicicing.com/category/pentecost/?fbclid=IwAR1xlJD9DgekB_y7GUXqMadfUczCn3GzbYDxIl8inm_4CHYd_IXUjYGjFpc">https://www.catholicicing.com/category/pentecost/?fbclid=IwAR1xlJD9DgekB_y7GUXqMadfUczCn3GzbYDxIl8inm_4CHYd_IXUjYGjFpc</a><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">And the most important. </span>Don't forget to attend mass with your family.</b></span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Share the love!</span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;">Don't forget to tag @everythingisgodsgift or @teacherweena on your photos of your crafts and on FB and @everythngsgrace and @teacherweena on Instagram.</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;">You may also send me photos on my inbox and I will feature them on my wall.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">God bless you!</span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Weena</span></span></div>
</div></div>Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-64049167418632864292020-05-27T17:37:00.004+08:002023-07-22T22:57:48.272+08:00Tongues of Fire Wearable Craft Activity<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9JqeOyYTrCw/Xs4x7opFSNI/AAAAAAAAKKA/vjp5-1PsWfgxsGVdHMX7t8krUfVFLsrbwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/tongues%2Bof%2Bfire.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9JqeOyYTrCw/Xs4x7opFSNI/AAAAAAAAKKA/vjp5-1PsWfgxsGVdHMX7t8krUfVFLsrbwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/tongues%2Bof%2Bfire.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here's a craft that you can do with your children when learning about the gifts of the Holy Spirit or it can also be an activity for Pentecost.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z4UbxBh8B-E/Xs4bfbnHtVI/AAAAAAAAKJk/n41SLsoSXQ8pFUDMVdFZyeNfDvtfvPd1QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/FB_IMG_1590513705649.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z4UbxBh8B-E/Xs4bfbnHtVI/AAAAAAAAKJk/n41SLsoSXQ8pFUDMVdFZyeNfDvtfvPd1QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/FB_IMG_1590513705649.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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You will need:</div>
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White sheets of paper, preferably one for each child</div>
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A couple of red and yellow paper (if you don't have any, you may download the tongues of fire template <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KvENk5pdEwfpb3dnI6Idd7JeYDFAU14U/view?usp=sharing">here</a>, color them out, then cut them)</div>
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Glue</div>
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Scissors</div>
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Stapler or tape</div>
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How to:</div>
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1. Prepare your tongues of fire. Preferably one for each child. You may want to make one for yourself too. Cut out a big flame from red paper. Cut out a small flame from yellow paper. You may use the template if you are not so confident in making the flame shape. If you will be using the flame template, let your children color or paint on it first before cutting.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eDwSNxTf6mk/Xs40Bye8DFI/AAAAAAAAKKU/X8azXEAxk9IEFk-lT7a7HOp3yXkaQcTPACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/20200526_175016.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eDwSNxTf6mk/Xs40Bye8DFI/AAAAAAAAKKU/X8azXEAxk9IEFk-lT7a7HOp3yXkaQcTPACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/20200526_175016.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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2. Stick on the small yellow flame onto the big red flame. Little ones can do this easily. Don't worry if its not in the center, unless they stress about it. Set aside. You may want to keep the finished tongue of fire away from your toddler. Toddlers love peeling things off remember? Preschoolers will try and follow your every instruction. They may even get ahead of you. Relax, its all fun.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D62nMq7oarE/Xs40KLR3LfI/AAAAAAAAKKY/FO0nJ6DtLpQwHzvElbE0N4pxMCrl3AM6wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/20200526_174944.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D62nMq7oarE/Xs40KLR3LfI/AAAAAAAAKKY/FO0nJ6DtLpQwHzvElbE0N4pxMCrl3AM6wCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/20200526_174944.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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3. Fold your white paper in half lengthwise. Then cut along the fold.<br />
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4. You now have two long sheets of paper. Fold each again lengthwise. Staple the two pieces together. Measure around the circumference of your child's head and staple the two ends to make a crown. I use masking tape for the littlest ones because I'm a little afraid they might get hurt with the staples.<br />
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5. Glue the tongue of fire onto the crown and viola!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tU0ywJUlXgo/Xs4ygz30ANI/AAAAAAAAKKI/XZgLrD0SR7gaQMA_MlgGfg097zXCMUqIACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/flame%2Btemplate.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1132" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tU0ywJUlXgo/Xs4ygz30ANI/AAAAAAAAKKI/XZgLrD0SR7gaQMA_MlgGfg097zXCMUqIACLcBGAsYHQ/s200/flame%2Btemplate.jpg" width="141" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KvENk5pdEwfpb3dnI6Idd7JeYDFAU14U/view?usp=sharing">flame template<br />download here</a></span></td></tr>
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Share the love! Don't forget to tag @everythingisgodsgift on FB and @everythngsgrace on IG when you post your work okay?</div>
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God bless you!</div>
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The Contreras Family</div>
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Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-68434241947471356372018-09-27T14:46:00.000+08:002018-09-27T14:46:10.395+08:00For What Or Whom Do We Toil For?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rql_S7bRiYQ/W6x8CBTJrWI/AAAAAAAAJS8/B6ES1aCNlIQmWVMm5krhfZjPVuUQlpCPACLcBGAs/s1600/For%2Bwhat%2Bor%2Bwhom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rql_S7bRiYQ/W6x8CBTJrWI/AAAAAAAAJS8/B6ES1aCNlIQmWVMm5krhfZjPVuUQlpCPACLcBGAs/s640/For%2Bwhat%2Bor%2Bwhom.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"Vanity of vanities, says Qoheleth. Vanity of vanities, All things are vanity! What profit has man from all labor which he toils at under the sun?" -Eccl. 1:2</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is a question for all of us.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Do we find ourselves dragging ourselves to work each day? For our family's needs perhaps? To save up for something we ant to buy or to travel? Or maybe to prove ourselves the best in our work or profession? To pay for a huge debt?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Let us reflect on our daily grind.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Do we do all things for the Glory of God? or for our own selfish ambitions?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It has been like this for man since before Jesus' time.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">But King David sings in his book of Psalms; "In every age o Lord, you have been our refuge." Because God has revealed to him "The Great Circle of Being", as Theologians say. Everything comes from God, and everything returns to Him.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Let us remember our mortality. Then maybe, 'work' will have a new meaning for us.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">All things pass. Even the ones you are striving for: a new car, a house, gadgets, dining at an expensive restaurant, a vacation abroad.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">King David continues to pray: "Teach us to remember our days aright, that we may gain wisdom of heart. Return, O Lord! How long? Have pity on your servants!" Ps. 90:12-13</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We then ask the Lord, "Wait! For we have come to love you too late!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">But it is not to late. Even Herod the Tetrarch had the chance of knowing Jesus. ut the world and all its enticements prevailed because he wanted to know Jesus only out of his worldly ambitions. He tried though, ["Who then is this about whom I hear such things? And he kept trying to see him."]</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Let us try harder than Herod. May our intentions be different from his.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In our daily lives, do we seek Jesus as someone who grants our prayers and wishes or material and corruptible things? Or do we seek him in order to have a more intimate relationship with him?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Jesus says,"I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me." Jn. 14:6</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Let's try to live out this reflection for a week. Here are 5 plus one, things we can do each day.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1. Good morning Jesus! Good morning Mama Mary! - say this as you open your eyes each morning. Let the first thought of the day be of Jesus.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2. All for you, Jesus and Mary! - offer your entire day to Jesus. Place everything into our Blessed Mother's loving hands.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3. Do God's will. Doing God's will is not doing great and good things occasionally, rather, it is doing the little things - yes, even the laundry! and doing it for the Glory of God.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4. Do one Random Act of Kindness each day. Even if you're a SAHM Stay At Home Mom, you can do this - think of a loving gesture (aside from keeping your kids alive) to show your child(ren). Plus one for the hubby too, it will do wonders for you marriage. For those who go to work, choose a co-worker who needs love the most. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">5. Practice vocal prayer. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> a. <a href="https://www.catholic.org/prayers/prayer.php?p=205">Morning Prayer</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> b, <a href="https://www.catholic.org/prayers/prayer.php?p=1138">Angelus</a> at 12 NN</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> c. <a href="https://www.catholic.org/prayers/prayer.php?p=1171">Divine Mercy Prayer</a> at 3:00</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> d.<a href="https://www.catholic.org/prayers/prayer.php?p=207"> Evening Prayer</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">6. Extra Challenge : <a href="https://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.pinimg.com%2Foriginals%2Fd5%2F05%2Fd9%2Fd505d9be38b899c4fa176b808970dc71.jpg&imgrefurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pinterest.com%2Fpin%2F79516749641965223%2F&docid=NVczb_9QKOfQjM&tbnid=lCh0_BmRuDRAcM%3A&vet=10ahUKEwi4ncTEwtrdAhWDfX0KHWmdA9sQMwg_KAEwAQ..i&w=1200&h=2600&bih=631&biw=1366&q=daily%20examen&ved=0ahUKEwi4ncTEwtrdAhWDfX0KHWmdA9sQMwg_KAEwAQ&iact=mrc&uact=8">The Daily Examen</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Let us strive to sanctify our lives! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I pray that all who read this will come into a deeper relationship with Jesus.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I sure would like to hear from you. Leave a comment if the Lord has touched you through this reflection.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">God bless you!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-38340844644093207282017-04-11T13:28:00.001+08:002017-04-11T13:28:19.787+08:00Easter Basket Filler Ideas for Toddlers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0nIdQgsqSs4/WOxgaPEb6XI/AAAAAAAAHQE/OBuCRdu6kgcUAtKYA0X6T0quFYw7DG75wCLcB/s1600/Easter%2BBasket.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0nIdQgsqSs4/WOxgaPEb6XI/AAAAAAAAHQE/OBuCRdu6kgcUAtKYA0X6T0quFYw7DG75wCLcB/s640/Easter%2BBasket.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="m_-5127759691008460015s1">I'm putting together an Easter Basket for my son is year. And I plan to continue to do so until he asks me to stop.<span class="m_-5127759691008460015Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_-5127759691008460015s1">So it's my first time. I browsed the web for ideas on Easter basket fillers. There are so many!</span></div>
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<span class="m_-5127759691008460015s1">Check out my Pinterest board for <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/weenacontreras/easter/">Easter.</a> You'll find lots pf ideas here.</span></div>
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<span class="m_-5127759691008460015s1">Here's what I put in his basket this year:</span></div>
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<span class="m_-5127759691008460015s1"><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;"><a href="http://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/wooden-dolls.html">Wooden Saint Dolls</a></span></span></div>
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<span class="m_-5127759691008460015s1">St. Matthew the Evangelist - We named our son after the two evangelists Matthew and Luke</span></div>
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<span class="m_-5127759691008460015s1">St. Catherine of Siena - Her feast day is our son's birthday.</span></div>
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<span class="m_-5127759691008460015s1"><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;">Books</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H8i_fxrW8is/WOxjzfsetWI/AAAAAAAAHQU/Kcqn2JJD53EP1qv9b_qWdU2E0Jlzf1phwCLcB/s1600/2017-04-11%2B13.01.51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H8i_fxrW8is/WOxjzfsetWI/AAAAAAAAHQU/Kcqn2JJD53EP1qv9b_qWdU2E0Jlzf1phwCLcB/s320/2017-04-11%2B13.01.51.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="m_-5127759691008460015s1">These are pre-loved books but we got them in very good condition. Most of the titles I want for Teo to read could not be found in bookstores nowadays. Thank God for these small businesses who make an effort to find these hard-to find-books. Check out their shops:</span></div>
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<span class="m_-5127759691008460015s1"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Bookboutiqueph/">Book Boutique PH</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.thelearningbasket.com/store/affid/teacherweena/">The Learning Basket</a></div>
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<span class="m_-5127759691008460015s1"><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;">Chocolate</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f8R_kF1EHxc/WOxkex4eMBI/AAAAAAAAHQc/Dt7UJyfj9_kK0YrVoq-AAhQz35tQOZ9eACLcB/s1600/2017-04-11%2B13.01.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f8R_kF1EHxc/WOxkex4eMBI/AAAAAAAAHQc/Dt7UJyfj9_kK0YrVoq-AAhQz35tQOZ9eACLcB/s320/2017-04-11%2B13.01.15.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="m_-5127759691008460015s1">These are supermarket bought. I'm sure you can find these chocolates and candies in the supermarket. And although my son is not a fan of chocolates, I put them in anyway. </span></div>
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<span class="m_-5127759691008460015s1"><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;">Others</span></span></div>
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<span class="m_-5127759691008460015s1">I also put in a shirt from Hongkong Disneyland, a Mikey bowl and a towel which 'Lola' bought for Teo and stacking food containers from Tita Tracy who went to HK Disneyland with Lola and Lolo and Tito Bong. Plus cups and Mike's ears cup covers from the hotel where they stayed. It made the basket look so full! </span></div>
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I hope you and your family will have a blessed and happy Easter!</div>
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Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-4215089198232642652017-03-21T20:59:00.003+08:002023-07-22T22:59:58.453+08:00The Road To Easter: Holy Week Activities for Little Ones<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x2UwwrbP6B8/WMesaHKSnaI/AAAAAAAAHJk/gW6RBm4n938OgzE_1dOTZIrJlUnViFT2ACEw/s1600/The%2BRoad%2BTo%2BEaster.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x2UwwrbP6B8/WMesaHKSnaI/AAAAAAAAHJk/gW6RBm4n938OgzE_1dOTZIrJlUnViFT2ACEw/s640/The%2BRoad%2BTo%2BEaster.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Our <a href="http://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/2017/02/lent-activities-for-toddlers.html" target="_blank">Lent activities</a> consisted mainly on stories and re-telling them.</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">And so will our Holy Week activities. We will be continuing our family traditions, from both sides of our families and make new ones - our new nuclear family. But of course we will be doing some easy activities to show God we love him.</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I have made a road map to guide us as we learn about Jesus' journey to the cross and until His resurrection. </span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jQ59lr8G_V8/WM89WMED0eI/AAAAAAAAHKY/2O99wl4Sh60rjzlWb7IMZzHOl7I_Rj_GgCLcB/s1600/2017-03-17%2B10.42.26.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jQ59lr8G_V8/WM89WMED0eI/AAAAAAAAHKY/2O99wl4Sh60rjzlWb7IMZzHOl7I_Rj_GgCLcB/s400/2017-03-17%2B10.42.26.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">You can download it <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4bS2KcnXjRjNXpQb3VpTm1hamM/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">And if you don't have a <a href="http://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/wooden-dolls.html" target="_blank">Jesus of Nazareth wooden doll</a> YET, you can download and print one <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4bS2KcnXjRjRDFoNUxRbjRKZ3c/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">here</a>. Cut, laminate and stick it to a toilet paper tube, and you're ready to go.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IHSVqZLc9bo/WNEh7SGky3I/AAAAAAAAHMI/P7wRG8wFp7EnZqqDM2UIhOzEWkjHPZKIQCLcB/s1600/Jesus%2Bof%2BNazareth%2B%25281%2529.png" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IHSVqZLc9bo/WNEh7SGky3I/AAAAAAAAHMI/P7wRG8wFp7EnZqqDM2UIhOzEWkjHPZKIQCLcB/s200/Jesus%2Bof%2BNazareth%2B%25281%2529.png" width="141" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4bS2KcnXjRjQnQzRnNhbTdCSUU/view?usp=sharing">download here</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4bS2KcnXjRjQTkxeXQ5dm14TDA/view?usp=sharing">download here</a></td></tr>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2iMrPq3u-e8/WMzt23BefNI/AAAAAAAAHJ4/1Z2Vf_H0sSQAXna9mZYvqcPGY-ct36N7wCLcB/s1600/palm%2Bsunday%2Bcopy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2iMrPq3u-e8/WMzt23BefNI/AAAAAAAAHJ4/1Z2Vf_H0sSQAXna9mZYvqcPGY-ct36N7wCLcB/s320/palm%2Bsunday%2Bcopy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>Story:</b> The Triumphal Entry (Matthew 21:1-11)</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>Activity: </b>Go to mass, wave your palms and have them blessed. Last year, we were late. Not for mass but late that there were no vacant seats left. I noticed that there are more people coming to mass during these 'Holy days'. So this year we'll be ridiculously early so we can choose our seat to get the 'best view'. I figured that when Teo sees what is going on at mass, he is more likely to refrain from wiggling too much.</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">We will be reading the story form the book 'The Life of Jesus' by Adarna House and Bayard Assumption Media Foundation.</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dKivr3iX3co/WM88GNWWReI/AAAAAAAAHKM/4vYxdiX0aIkkmkiFug3omQOO0zG8qfJHACLcB/s1600/2017-03-20%2B10.12.49.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dKivr3iX3co/WM88GNWWReI/AAAAAAAAHKM/4vYxdiX0aIkkmkiFug3omQOO0zG8qfJHACLcB/s320/2017-03-20%2B10.12.49.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I sometimes show where the passage is on my Bible and try to read a line or two. You can also show the picture and words on the printable road map to help your child understand further.</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">You can find similar stories <a href="http://www.christianbiblereference.org/story_PalmSunday.htm" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://www.dltk-bible.com/cv/waving_palms_to_jesus.htm" target="_blank">here</a>. I think it would be best to print out the text instead of reading from a tablet or laptop so your child can focus on the story.</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Talk about the palms, the donkey or how the people were so happy while some did not like Jesus at all. </span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Encourage your child to ask questions too.</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6qv3wBflxCc/WM8-KjG1UtI/AAAAAAAAHKk/XySU3J2X83czqVGK8nZMgYF9MCAOJMsDQCEw/s1600/Holy%2BMonday%2Bcopy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6qv3wBflxCc/WM8-KjG1UtI/AAAAAAAAHKk/XySU3J2X83czqVGK8nZMgYF9MCAOJMsDQCEw/s320/Holy%2BMonday%2Bcopy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>Story: </b>Cleansing The Temple (Matthew 21:12-17)</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>Activity: </b>Build a temple using blocks. This will be a family activity. You can read about what the temple looked like during Jesus' time <a href="https://blogs.thegospelcoalition.org/justintaylor/2010/07/13/what-did-the-temple-look-like-in-jesus-time/">here.</a> Of course it does not have to look like the temple. It is always best to have your child lead during play.</span><br />
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><b>Story: </b>The Withered Fig Tree (Matthew 21:18-22)</span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><b>Activity:</b> Make a tree craft. Teo has been interested in trees (and seeds) lately because the acacia tree in front of our house has been shedding leaves and dropping seed pods. We have already collected twigs and leaves. </span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Go on a nature walk and try to collect leaves, twigs and other things you think might be used. You may do it on a weekend so you'll have all materials prepared on Tuesday.</span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">You will need: some leaves and twigs, white glue and a <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4bS2KcnXjRjQnQzRnNhbTdCSUU/view?usp=sharing">tree template</a>. Arrange the materials in a tray and invite your child to do the activity after the story. Glue the twigs on the branches of the tree template and then the leaves. </span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">You may also want to introduce new vocabulary while doing the activity. </span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;">Withered - become dry and shriveled </span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Thrive/flourish - to grow</span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><b>Story: </b>The Plan to Betray Jesus (Matthew 26:14-16)</span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><b>Activity: </b>Count 30 coins. Teo has learned to route count up to 10 already and was very surprised when he discovered that there were more numbers after 10. Now he counts until 20 but still mixes the 'teens' up. </span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Prepare 30 coins (real or not) and put them in a pouch. Show the pouch as you tell the story. Count the coins with your child after.</span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><b>Activity: </b>This is one of my favorite moments in Jesus' life. I always imagine myself with Jesus and his apostles. Wash each others feet before dinner. We will be starting this tradition this year. I think it is a wonderful way to remind each other what Jesus commanded us "Love one another." (Read John 13:1-20)</span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">You will need: a small wash basin, a pitcher and a towel.</span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Nanay will wash Tatay's feet. Tatay will wash Teo's feet and Teo will wash Nanay's feet. Your child may need assistance in pouring though. You may put just a little water in the pitcher if your little one will be doing the pouring.</span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">After a family member washes the feet of the other, continue showing love and affection by hugging and kissing that family member then add 'I love you __'. </span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">If you can, go to mass in the evening and participate in your parish's activities. I'm sure there will be a reenactment of the washing of the feet at mass.</span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><b>Activity: </b>Go into a garden, any garden to pray. In our case, I would love to go to the gardens at the grounds of <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/St.+John+Bosco+Parish+Church/@14.2558282,121.0564904,285m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x33bd7d427fa4d227:0xe2c7aa9b8d88b383!8m2!3d14.2559638!4d121.056559!6m1!1e1">St. John Bosco parish in Santa Rosa</a> and pray as a family. </span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">If you're going to do <i>Visita Iglesia </i>with your little ones, you might as well look for a church with a garden so that like Jesus, you may pray to God amidst nature.</span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">We will just be reading the stories on the road map all throughout the day. But I will try to finish with the Crucifixion at 12 noon. </span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">We ill also be attending the Veneration of the cross in our parish. We have done this last year with Teo already. Afterwards, we will go to Cabuyao to watch the procession. This has been a family tradition eversince - way before I was born. </span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Our family (mother's side) has a life sized <i><a href="http://taga-kabuyaw.blogspot.com/2011/04/el-senor-de-santo-entierro-de-familia.html">Santo Entiero</a>. </i>It<i> </i>is brought out to be processioned and venerated during Good Friday. Last year, Teo was too little to join. And he sprained his ankle earlier that day so we just watched the procession pass by in from of my Lolo's (Grandfather's) house. We might join the procession this year. </span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">I encourage you to join the procession in your parish too. It would be a wonderful way to show your children your love and devotion to God. They can be pushed in their strollers anyway. </span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kD4OrmFio4w/WNDxnoucquI/AAAAAAAAHL4/pBWONNDMs1E-Tu2NCRBhv5_VYYLRhWiqgCLcB/s1600/black%2Bsaturday%2Bcopy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kD4OrmFio4w/WNDxnoucquI/AAAAAAAAHL4/pBWONNDMs1E-Tu2NCRBhv5_VYYLRhWiqgCLcB/s320/black%2Bsaturday%2Bcopy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><b>Story: </b>The Guard at the Tomb (Matthew 27:62-66)</span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><b>Activity: </b>After reading from the Bible, we would be looking though the pictures in the Stations of the Cross booklet. It would be such a blessing to listen to our little one's insights on all that has happened this week. </span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">This is a good way to help your tot or preschooler learn how to express himself or herself, or ask questions. </span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">I hope that this post will inspire you to observe the Holy Week with your family. </span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Have a blessed Holy Week!</span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">More resources on how to observe Holy Week with your family</span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><a href="http://www.foryourmarriage.org/how-do-catholics-observe-holy-week/">How Do Catholics Observe Holy Week?</a></span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><a href="http://thecatholicspirit.com/holy-days/easter/10-ways-for-families-to-observe-holy-week/">10 ways for families to observe Holy Week</a></span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.todayscatholicnews.org/2012/03/observing-holy-week-with-faith-and-devotion/">OBSERVING HOLY WEEK WITH FAITH AND DEVOTION</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><a href="https://homefaith.wordpress.com/2015/03/30/a-family-how-to-for-holy-week-2/">A family “how to” for Holy Week</a></span></span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/prayers-and.html" target="_blank">Find more FREE printables here</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/prayers-and.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuz1UgbNy8cFJYF1X9SN1FBAGBRV73wOr6hsA5YFNebj8CPVBhdzS95AFrnNDkkB8Cflq6B7434Xj_9w0OaUdmIMmDEeI0rszbl0REURF_H1K2Q5KhV1eHnANlc7v_ejTSnltZaiwoLsoT820rA1OwjC1e3uczxGoy7oDSFZPE3CnJtd_rRgr5GgEEPZYD/s320/teacher%20weena;s%20(1).png" width="320" /></a></div></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span>Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-17431085967964842172017-03-11T10:27:00.005+08:002021-03-13T23:53:36.992+08:00Celebrating The Feast of St. Joseph, Husband of Mary<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rghq4HxX1Jk/WMNYy8hViII/AAAAAAAAHIs/_j_hCRhDt8oq7Y_kfvM6WWoQbaQlDdi7ACLcB/s1600/Celebrating%2BThe%2BFeast%2B%25282%2529.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rghq4HxX1Jk/WMNYy8hViII/AAAAAAAAHIs/_j_hCRhDt8oq7Y_kfvM6WWoQbaQlDdi7ACLcB/s640/Celebrating%2BThe%2BFeast%2B%25282%2529.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">March 19 is the feast of St. Joseph. He is the patron of unborn children, fathers, social justice, travelers, workers, the universal church and a happy death. </span><br />
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">St. Joseph was the foster father of Jesus and the husband of Mary. Our family often seeks his intercession especially when there are major decisions to make as husband and wife. He truly interceded for us before and during our adoption process. </span><br />
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">So Noli and I came up with a few activities for us to do as a family. And to introduce Teo to this beloved saint.</span><br />
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">Read Stories About St. Joseph</span><br />
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">We will be reading the book <a href="http://www.thelearningbasket.com/shop/first-christmas-hardcover-2/affid/teacherweena/" target="_blank">The First Christmas</a> again. We bought this book at <a href="http://www.thelearningbasket.com/" target="_blank">The Learning Basket</a>. The book tells about how Joseph and Mary journeyed to Bethlehem up until they fled to Egypt and settled in Nazareth. I like the wordings, Joseph says to Mary; </span><br />
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">" So now we will go to my home town in Bethlehem together. We will put our names on the list of taxpayers together. We will be husband and wife, together forever." </span></blockquote>
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">And then of course, retell the story using our <a href="http://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/wooden-dolls.html" target="_blank">wooden dolls</a>. </span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cVsnItfN3U8/WMNZH2fRCkI/AAAAAAAAHIw/oPZ66KFjC6AcpBdLrTyJxovLyDYwmVsnQCLcB/s1600/2017-03-07%2B07.45.14.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cVsnItfN3U8/WMNZH2fRCkI/AAAAAAAAHIw/oPZ66KFjC6AcpBdLrTyJxovLyDYwmVsnQCLcB/s320/2017-03-07%2B07.45.14.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">Pretend Play</span><br />
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">St. Joseph was a loving father to Jesus. An invitation to play using 'Teddy' and a box for a bed would most likely encourage Teo to play 'caring for baby'</span><br />
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Teo and I have been playing with 'Teddy' {Teo's bear} occasionally and he loves putting 'Teddy' to sleep. Its heart warming to watch him imitate his Tatay when he puts Teo to sleep. Sometimes, he imitates me. </span><br />
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">A make-shift bed using a small box would do as a bed for a doll. Use a stuffed toy if you don't have a doll. You may have to verbally invite and encourage your toddler to play with you at first. If your tot has already engaged in pretend play before, then it will be easy to introduce this. </span><br />
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">Be a Carpenter </span> <br />
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">We have played with tools {real ones and toy ones} last time when we <a href="http://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/2017/01/celebrating-feast-of-st-john-bosco_30.html" target="_blank">celebrated the feast of St. John Bosco</a>. Since then, I have rotated these tools a couple of times already. This time we will try to drive small nails into soft wood this time. Check some of these links out for more ideas:</span><br />
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<a href="http://livingmontessorinow.com/montessori-inspired-woodworking-activities/" target="_blank">Montessori Inspired Woodworking Activities </a><br />
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<a href="http://www.howweelearn.com/woodworking-kids/" target="_blank">The Nuts and Bolts of Learning With Tools </a><br />
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<a href="http://handsonaswegrow.com/hand-eye-coordination-hammer-tees/" target="_blank">Hand and Eye Coordination with a Hammer & Tees</a><br />
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<a href="http://picklebums.com/woodworking-with-kids/" target="_blank">Woodworking with kids</a><br />
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<a href="http://modernpreschool.com/fine-motor-ice-picking-in-preschoo/" target="_blank">Fine Motor Ice Picking in Preschool</a><br />
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">And if Daddy, Papa or Tatay has a knack for building and fixing things, your little one could help out when he has to repair stuff. </span><br />
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">Pray to St. Joseph</span><br />
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">We will say this <a href="http://www.family-prayer.org/prayer-to-st-joseph.html" target="_blank">prayer to St. Joseph</a> during our night prayers. </span><br />
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">Cook and Eat Minestrone</span><br />
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">While searching for activities to do on the feast of St. Joseph, I stumbled upon <a href="https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2017-03-20" target="_blank">this website.</a> And found out that minestrone is traditionally cooked on his feast day. Since our family loves minestrone {Teo included} we will be preparing and eating this meal together. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My art journal entry @weenaswatercolors</td></tr>
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #6aa84f;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">Draw or color a picture of St. Joseph </span><br style="color: black; font-size: medium;" /><br /></span></div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Older children can draw St. Joseph on their journals if they have. While younger children can use this <a href="https://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/coloring-pages.html" target="_blank">coloring page.</a></span></div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: black; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">Special Day for Tatay</span><br />
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Although we always thanks and honor Tatay, Teo and I will do a little honoring ceremony for Tatay for all that he does for us. We will be singing the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uh4dTLJ9q9o" target="_blank">Lava Song</a>, with me on the ukulele, to Tatay probably after we finish dinner.</span><br />
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">You may want to honor Daddy, Papa of Tatay on this day too by making a poster or card, singing a song (any song!) for Dad or just a kiss and a hug after saying 'Thank you, Tatay, for all that you do for our family'</span><br />
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<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">I </span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">hope you will have a blessed feast of St. Joseph. </span><br />
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</div>Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-61413677568220132172017-02-26T08:45:00.001+08:002023-07-22T23:00:22.480+08:00Lent Activities for Toddlers<div style="text-align: center;">
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Lent is just a few days away. I have rounded up a few activities for our family to do. </span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I planned each week with a gospel account of Jesus' life or teaching and a couple of activities.</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><u>Go to mass and have your foreheads marked with ash</u>. This is another chance to bring the toddler to mass. Yeah, I know its hard, keeping them quiet and still (quite an impossible feat) while encouraging them to participate in the mass, mustering up every ounce of patience you have and gently reminding them for the nth time not to climb on the pews.</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">But still, bring them if you can!</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><u>Talk about Ash Wednesday</u>. This <a href="http://thehoggatthomeschool.com/?s=ash+wednesday" target="_blank">activity</a> from The Hogatt Homeschool will be a good way to begin talking about Ash Wednesday. I'm sure our tot would have asked 'What's that?' many times at church and I would have named everything he asked about before we do this activity. But he may want to have a go at marking a cross on a person's forehead, and the printable in this activity will be the best way to do it.</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><u>Work on those finger muscles.</u> Use toothpicks or popsicle sticks to make crosses. </span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-23hnZlKBIrE/WLDmNGDwEwI/AAAAAAAAHGQ/PE1JZD4ZhRsNDph4NEDCiDjMi-ckZhWFgCLcB/s1600/2017-02-25%2B09.55.36.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-23hnZlKBIrE/WLDmNGDwEwI/AAAAAAAAHGQ/PE1JZD4ZhRsNDph4NEDCiDjMi-ckZhWFgCLcB/s400/2017-02-25%2B09.55.36.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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Find more Ash Wednesday activities <a href="http://www.catholicicing.com/ash-wednesday-for-kids/" target="_blank">here</a></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Week 1, March 1-4 </span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">We will be using the book <i>The Life of Jesus </i>published by Adarna Books and Bayard Assumption Media Foundation for the stories each week. You can read directly from the Bible too. </span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>Story:</b> Jesus Goes Into The Desert <i>Matthew 4:1-11</i></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>Activity: </b>Retell the story using blocks. I'm setting up a block center (its just a small corner where I will put all his blocks) this lent. Our Jesus <a href="http://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/wooden-dolls.html" target="_blank">Wooden Doll</a> will be there too. This would be a great invitation to play (and have a story retelling too!)</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><a href="http://adventuresinmommydom.org/temptation-jesus-activity/" target="_blank">Adventures in Mommydom</a> has a free printable on the temptation of Jesus. It can be used to retell the story and/or for sequencing of events.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bIewreZjHIg/WLF7KbO-ZDI/AAAAAAAAHGw/6AZJK5jOu_0gavFndCzRjdlJg-q3m-4NgCLcB/s1600/2017-02-25%2B14.33.23.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bIewreZjHIg/WLF7KbO-ZDI/AAAAAAAAHGw/6AZJK5jOu_0gavFndCzRjdlJg-q3m-4NgCLcB/s320/2017-02-25%2B14.33.23.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Click <a href="http://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/wooden-dolls.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> to order your own Jesus wooden doll</span></td></tr>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">More about block play during lent can be found <a href="http://www.catholicicing.com/jerusalem/" target="_blank">here</a>.</span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Week 2, March 5-11</span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>Story: </b>The Good News (Jesus Call His Disciples) <i>Matthew 4: 18-22</i></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>Activity: </b>We will be printing, coloring and laminating these wonderful <a href="http://www.sarajcreations.com/2017/02/learning-12-apostles.html" target="_blank">apostles coloring page </a>from Sara J Creations. We will not be doing the accordion book though. I plan to attach a wooden block at the base of each laminated picture so they can stand up. And again, another way to play at the 'block center'. We'll see how this turns out. I may introduce the apostles one at a time or we might retell the story on how Jesus called Peter, Andrew, James and John. And then introduce the rest of the apostles after. </span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><a href="http://adventuresinmommydom.org/temptation-jesus-activity/" target="_blank"><br /></a></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--4ds_g-95Ho/WLy1DMA8hdI/AAAAAAAAHIA/KJnZJsNO9hgunasGJdz-7pxk6M-kzA8pwCLcB/s1600/2017-03-01%2B13.09.10.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--4ds_g-95Ho/WLy1DMA8hdI/AAAAAAAAHIA/KJnZJsNO9hgunasGJdz-7pxk6M-kzA8pwCLcB/s320/2017-03-01%2B13.09.10.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm coloring this printable from Sara J Creations</td></tr>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Week 3, March 12-18</span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>Story:</b> Jesus Heals a Paralyzed Man Mark 2:1-12</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>Activity: </b>You will need a large handkerchief and a small doll or stuffed toy for this activity. Retell the story with your tot. As you come to the part where the friends of the paralytic lowered him from the roof, place the doll or stuffed toy on the handkerchief and ask your tot to hold all four corners of the handkerchief. Jesus had healed the man because of his faith and the faith of his four friends.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Og5tfpKd1N4/WLYzLG4lEkI/AAAAAAAAHHY/7mIoMEhR1ZEpcrn3hxGCPR6M-kSXfUL-wCLcB/s1600/2017-03-01%2B10.30.00.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Og5tfpKd1N4/WLYzLG4lEkI/AAAAAAAAHHY/7mIoMEhR1ZEpcrn3hxGCPR6M-kSXfUL-wCLcB/s400/2017-03-01%2B10.30.00.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jesus heals a paralyzed man doll play.</td></tr>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">More ideas in my Pinterest board <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/weenacontreras/life-teachings-and-works-of-jesus-for-kids/" target="_blank">{Life, Teachings and Works of Jesus}</a></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Week 4, March 19-25</span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>Story: </b>Bread For All John 6:1-15</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>Activity:</b> You will need a non laminated paper plate (or two) and the fish and bread coloring page for this activity. You can download the coloring page here {<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4bS2KcnXjRjMlk2VjFieklIRTg/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Five Loaves</a> and <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4bS2KcnXjRjZTJRX05VWjIwX1E/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Two Fish </a>Printable}</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TnA0SBWLFws/WLzHJ_hLfJI/AAAAAAAAHIU/jEuugF3tHNcm3Q9cLlOQA7nDrpkacDYDgCLcB/s1600/two%2Bfish.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8TdDciC8RJw/WLzHAXQhe3I/AAAAAAAAHIQ/c0YsWrVpPAoBHmIbQnzC3P72N2azJHfSACLcB/s1600/five%2Bloaves.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8TdDciC8RJw/WLzHAXQhe3I/AAAAAAAAHIQ/c0YsWrVpPAoBHmIbQnzC3P72N2azJHfSACLcB/s200/five%2Bloaves.jpg" width="154" /></a><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TnA0SBWLFws/WLzHJ_hLfJI/AAAAAAAAHIU/jEuugF3tHNcm3Q9cLlOQA7nDrpkacDYDgCLcB/s200/two%2Bfish.jpg" width="154" /></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">You may ask your toddler to color the loaves and fish or you can just print it out on brown paper for the loaves and blue or gray paper for the fish. Cut out the loaves and fish first before introducing the activity to your toddler. Present the materials as you ask how many loaves and fish the little boy in the story had.</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Ask your tot to count how many fish and loaves there are; separate the loaves from the fish and count them or count them all in all. You may want to paste the fish and loaves on the paper plate for extra activity time. </span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Another activity we will be doing is to eat <i>tilapia </i>[St. Peter's fish]. Teo will have one small tilapia for himself so he could learn to eat fish. </span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">*Instead of paper plates, you can use this <a href="http://bibleclasscreations.blogspot.com/2013/04/basket-from-paper-sack.html" target="_blank">basket made from a brown paper bag</a> if you know your child will be careful enough not to tear it.</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Week 5, March 26-April 1</span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>Story: </b>Stations of the Cross <b> </b></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">We will be doing<b> </b>the stations of the cross this week. I downloaded a <a href="https://www.loyolapress.com/our-catholic-faith/liturgical-year/lent/stations-of-the-cross/multimedia-stations-of-the-cross-for-children" target="_blank">pdf Stations of the Cross</a> from loyolapress.com<b> </b>and we will be using that to pray the stations as a family. </span></div>
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<span face="arial, helvetica, sans-serif">We will also use another free printable from <a href="http://www.catholicinspired.com/" target="_blank">Catholic inspired</a>. This <a href="http://www.catholicinspired.com/2015/03/stations-of-cross-lift-flap-notebook.html" target="_blank">lift-flap notebook page</a> will be ideal for us to re-tell Jesus' journey to the cross.</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> <b> </b></span><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Activity:</b><span face="arial, helvetica, sans-serif"> Pray the stations of the cross as a family at church. We will pray at <a href="http://sjbosco-starosa.org/" target="_blank">St. John Bosco Parish in Laguna Technopark</a>. They have a nice <i>Stations of the Cross garden</i> there.</span></div>
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<span face="arial, helvetica, sans-serif">But before we do that, we </span><span face="arial, helvetica, sans-serif">will have to go over all fourteen stations using the lift-flab notebook page.</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">The books that we are using this Lent 2017:</span></div>
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Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-91293527508630208702017-02-06T13:18:00.000+08:002017-02-06T13:18:18.348+08:00Celebrating The Feast of St. Josephine Bakhita<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We celebrate the feast day of St. Josephine Bakhita on February 8. She is the patroness of Sudan and of victims of slavery and human trafficking.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My aunt who is a Canossian nun, introduced St. Bakhita to me. I remember her giving me a couple of medals (on different occasions) and prayer cards. But it was only last year when I really became interested in knowing her.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When we attended a gathering at <a href="http://www.canossaphil.org/calamba-city">Canossa in Calamba</a> a huge tarpaulin of St. Bakhita's picture was there in front of the stage. Our son, Teo was with us and so I too the opportunity to introduce him to the saint. So I pointed to her picture and told Teo a little about her life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It was then that my heart was stirred and I realized that I could seek her intercession for our second adoption. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And so I look to her now whenever I experience a little discomfort or physical pain; if I am not given much importance or any little suffering. She endured all those physical pain and humiliation and yet she had hope and optimism. I need that. The rest of the world needs that. That, and of course, Jesus.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here are a few activities to do with young children at home to celebrate the feast of St. Josephine Bakhita.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1. <b>Learn about her life story. Here are some resources:</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=5601"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Catholic Online</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://vatican.va/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Vatican.va</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2015/02/08/st_josephine_bakhita_the_life_of_a_modern-day_african_st/1122239"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Vatican Radio</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/saint.php?n=680"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">CNA</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.beliefnet.com/faiths/galleries/what-we-can-learn-from-st-josephine-bakhita.aspx?p=5"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Beleifnet</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2. <b>Watch YouTube videos about her.</b></span></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Bqn1SeYiVAE/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Bqn1SeYiVAE?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3. <b>All while holding our newest member of <a href="http://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/wooden-dolls.html">wooden Saint dolls</a>.</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bva-faoawHY/WJSL0FoWUGI/AAAAAAAAHCk/D_4iklq5-30LBPHTCrZ0B7lokE8-y79mACLcB/s1600/2017-02-03%2B08.47.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bva-faoawHY/WJSL0FoWUGI/AAAAAAAAHCk/D_4iklq5-30LBPHTCrZ0B7lokE8-y79mACLcB/s320/2017-02-03%2B08.47.06.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4.<b> Pray for St. Josephine Bakhita's intercession. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://catholicgo.org/novena-prayer-to-st-josephine-bakhita/">Novena to St. Josephine Bakhita</a> - starts on January 31</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/prayers/view.cfm?id=1252">Prayer in Honor of St. Josephine Bakhita</a></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-86-q4yWRBU4/WJSUKJim2QI/AAAAAAAAHC0/DrokaE-kiBY8paxjP-M9paTdE5C2ez6jACLcB/s1600/St.%2BJosephine%2Bquote.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-86-q4yWRBU4/WJSUKJim2QI/AAAAAAAAHC0/DrokaE-kiBY8paxjP-M9paTdE5C2ez6jACLcB/s320/St.%2BJosephine%2Bquote.png" width="213" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Teo and I, and Tatay too, will be praying for those who do not know God. We will include this in our evening prayers. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">5. <b>Open doors for everyone who comes in and out of the house. </b>St. Josephine Bakhita worked as a door keeper at the convent of the Canossian Daughters of Charity. So we will welcome anybody who comes in and bless anybody who goes out of the door. And since we have our relatives from the US visiting, we will have a lot of people coming and going out the door! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">6. <b>Coloring page. </b>Teo is not much into coloring though. But we'll try doing this.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-asWeqizcUac/WJgD1WOHcFI/AAAAAAAAHDE/5E5Y4st2w_0A2hxx3CWxXLwmkPZ13RtEgCLcB/s1600/St.%2BJosephine%2BBakhita.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-asWeqizcUac/WJgD1WOHcFI/AAAAAAAAHDE/5E5Y4st2w_0A2hxx3CWxXLwmkPZ13RtEgCLcB/s320/St.%2BJosephine%2BBakhita.jpg" width="191" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Download a PDF file<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4bS2KcnXjRjYzdnbDNXbkx2ckE/view?usp=sharing"> here</a>.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">*for more coloring pages of the saints, click <a href="http://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/coloring-pages.html">here</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Waltzing Matilda has a nice <a href="http://www.waltzingm.com/2009/02/st-josephine-bakhita-coloring-page.html">coloring page</a> too.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You may want to try Catholic Playground's <a href="http://catholicplayground.com/bakhita/saint-bakhita-coloring.html">coloring page</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I hope you enjoy celebrating the feast of St. Josephine Bakhita!</span></div>
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<br />Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-38470594469386729662017-01-30T09:11:00.000+08:002019-01-16T13:22:24.748+08:00Celebrating The Feast Of St. John Bosco<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have only come to know St. John Bosco more intimately just last year, after we adopted our son. He has become one of my favorite saints. He is the patron saint of <span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">schoolchildren,</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">apprentices,</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">editors and publishers,</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">magicians, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"> and juvenile delinquents</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 16px;"> </span>It is my heart's desire for our son to grow in holiness and so I seek his intercession. I often call out to the beloved saint when Teo becomes extra rowdy or puts himself is dangerous situations. And remind myself of what Don Bosco said:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"Run, jump, have all the fun you want at the right time, but, for heaven’s sake, do not commit sin! (from St. Philip Neri)."</span></blockquote>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xser-q1mUvU/WImpoKCMJOI/AAAAAAAAHAA/L18DJkI5ozAv3zR0z5lQ4fdqzT83jJKGwCLcB/s1600/St.%2BJohn%2BBosco.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xser-q1mUvU/WImpoKCMJOI/AAAAAAAAHAA/L18DJkI5ozAv3zR0z5lQ4fdqzT83jJKGwCLcB/s640/St.%2BJohn%2BBosco.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Born on August 16, 1815 in Becchi, Italy; he was given the name Giovanni Melchiorre Bosco. He was nine years old when he had his first dream. Several dreams after that would later influence his life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here are 6 activities you can do to celebrate the feast of St. John Bosco at home with your child.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1. <b>Learn about the life of St. John Bosco</b> - Read about his early years, how he was called to his mission, how he began the Oratory, the orphanage and the Trade school <a href="http://www.donboscowest.org/saints/donbosco">here</a>. Or a shorter one <a href="http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/saint.php?n=133">here</a> and <a href="http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=63">here</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">More reading resources:</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.salesians.org/pdf/SBulletin/SB2012n1_English.pdf"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Salesian Bulletin: Getting To Know Don Bosco</span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://catholicapologetics.info/library/onlinelibrary/donbosco.pdf">Don Bosco: A Sketch of His Life and Miracles</a>, Charles D'Espiney</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://archive.org/details/sketchoflifework00pine">Life and Works of Venerable Don Bosco</a>, M.S. Pine</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For younger children like mine, its best to print a few pages and read. We will be reading a few pages from M.S.Pine's book because it has a few pictures.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Of course the tot will be watching the shorter one.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3. <b>Pray to St. John Bosco</b> - We will be praying <a href="http://lordcalls.com/prayers-to-saints/a-childs-prayer-through-the-intercession-of-st-john-bosco">A Child's Prayer Through The Intercession of St. John Bosco</a> in addition to our bedtime prayers on his feast day. Here are more prayers online:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.praymorenovenas.com/st-john-bosco-novena/">St. John Bosco Novena</a>, Pray More Novenas</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.catholic.org/prayers/prayer.php?p=166">Prayer To St. John Bosco</a>, Catholic Online</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://miraclesfulfilled.blogspot.com/2014/09/st-john-bosco-novena-for-education.html">St. John Bosco Novena for Education and Special Intentions</a>, miraclesfulfilled.blogspot.com</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.catholicity.com/prayer/prayer-to-saint-john-bosco.html">Prayer to Saint John Bosco</a>, catholicity.com</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://catholicharboroffaithandmorals.com/St.%20John%20Bosco%20popup.html">Prayers and Devotions to St. John Bosco</a>, http://catholicharboroffaithandmorals.com/</span><br />
<a href="https://www.ewtn.com/Devotionals/novena/bosco.htm"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></a>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.ewtn.com/Devotionals/novena/bosco.htm">Novena in Honor of St. John Bosco</a>, EWTN</span><br />
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the life story (of part) of St. John Bosco using a St. John Bosco Wooden Saint Doll </b></span><o:p></o:p><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">5. <b>Do a little carpentry play</b> - St. John Bosco taught the boys in The Oratory a little carpentry. He also put a little cobbler shop in a corner of his mother's kitchen. This were the beginnings of the Don Bosco Trade School. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm bringing out his carpentry tools again.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We'll be matching colors and work on our fine motor skills as well on this one.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Since our little tinkerer loves tools, Tatay made him something to practice his hammering and screw driving skills. We used one of my boards to stretch watercolor paper. Tatay put holes on it so Teo can drive in a nail or a screw. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Find more inspiration here:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://livingmontessorinow.com/montessori-inspired-woodworking-activities/">Montessori Inspired Woodworking Activities</a>, Living Montessori Now</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.howweelearn.com/woodworking-kids/">The Nuts and Bolts of Learning With Tools</a>, How We Learn</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://picklebums.com/woodworking-with-kids/">Woodworking With Kids</a>, Picklebums</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">6. <b>Pretend to be a magician </b>- Don Bosco learned the tricks of magicians who traveled to their place. With this skill he performed in front of an audience and they had to recite one decade of the rosary as admission.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Teo loves it when Tatay makes things 'disappear' and reappear. He tries to imitate him at times and Tatay and I are his audience.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So I prepared a cape (his blankie) a hat (his fishing hat) and his bunny rabbit in his discovery box. We will be watching a couple of (kid friendly) magic shows online before I bring out the box.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I hope you'll have fun learning about St. John Bosco! God bless you.</span></div>
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Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-18133651907343742562016-12-11T11:36:00.000+08:002016-12-11T11:36:05.468+08:00My Grandmother's Greatest Ambition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This post has been a draft for almost two weeks now. My grandmother is still in the ICU as of this writing. She has suffered a massive stroke about a month ago, a few days before her 94th birthday. So today, I have decided to publish this post - without much editing because it is too painful to read again. </span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mlKW4gWywo4/WEzC0OkmIRI/AAAAAAAAG6A/COluUvZ_LF4SFLM8hFC2pkeLEYG2-qRtwCLcB/s1600/sunflower.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mlKW4gWywo4/WEzC0OkmIRI/AAAAAAAAG6A/COluUvZ_LF4SFLM8hFC2pkeLEYG2-qRtwCLcB/s200/sunflower.png" width="133" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I remember Christmas 1988, I was twelve. I got a slam book, something every tween had that time, but had no friends who would write on it. Not that I had no friends, but it was Christmas vacation and so I was stuck with two younger brothers, who had no interest in sharing about <i>what love is</i>; and with family and relatives.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My mama told me that I could ask my uncles, aunts and other cousins to write on my slam book at our annual family reunion. And so I did. I also asked my lola Remy (grandma) to write. Her answer to the question, "What is your greatest ambition?", anchored me more to the Catholic faith. I just did not know it that time.</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BXw_3kJEz7k/WEzEpCp34LI/AAAAAAAAG6M/aMKNoNULfDkiTUdsgEU_d38EeMg64AAvACLcB/s1600/lavander.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BXw_3kJEz7k/WEzEpCp34LI/AAAAAAAAG6M/aMKNoNULfDkiTUdsgEU_d38EeMg64AAvACLcB/s320/lavander.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I remember lola's room in Paranaque, it had its own bathroom which I thought was pretty cool. The curtains were heavy and it was dark even during the day when the curtains were shut. Lola had a round table with an intricately patterned, yellow-gold table cloth. There, were her images of the saints, Mother Mary and other relics and mementos of her trip to the Holy Land. I remember standing in front of that altar, looking. I remember the plastic bottle with Holy water in the form of Our Lady of Lourdes. I remember Lola Remy's rosary with a relic of a saint on the crucifix (I completely forgot whose) maybe because I did not know what 'relic' meant. She told me only someone with the purest of heart can see whats inside. She asked me if I could see it. And, I was so happy that I could. I only realized later on that everybody could probably see it. I will always be grateful for that moment. My Lola Remy showed me how exactly Jesus saw me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I remember my parents commend me, jokingly, because that's how they would do it, that they noticed that I was being very polite and kind. My Papa said it must be because of the book Lola Remy gave me. And it was true! I did not want to admit it but I really wanted to follow all the lessons in The Little Children's Bible.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lola gave me several books. In all of them she wrote a note on the front page. I remember one book she gave me about the Ten Commandments, she wrote<i> 'Dear Weena, Always be a good girl. Love, Lola Remy.' </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I remember going to mass with her. She and Lolo would remain in the pew long after the mass was finished. I did not understand this practice at that time and I must confess, I thought was silly. Now I realize that during those times, there were no adoration chapels yet, and Lola stayed to pray and adore Jesus in the Eucharist.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I always thought of what Lola Remy wrote on my slam book. As a child, I took it literally and thought, '<i>that would be a difficult thing to do</i>.' I probably forgot about it during my teenage and college years. But when I joined CFC Singles for Christ, I began to have hope that IT may be possible! Now that I am married and raising a boy, I have come to realize that every Catholic should have the same ambition. I try my best nowadays but fail again and again. I run to Jesus for forgiveness through confession and resolve to try better.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M08i7jKj3hw/WEzGIkpXL3I/AAAAAAAAG6c/xbTQt6tJx1c6P1r4Zb_cRuqMP0oaMtViQCLcB/s1600/gladiola.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M08i7jKj3hw/WEzGIkpXL3I/AAAAAAAAG6c/xbTQt6tJx1c6P1r4Zb_cRuqMP0oaMtViQCLcB/s320/gladiola.png" width="213" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I remember asking Lola if she wanted a 15 decade rosary. I remember looking for blue beads so I can craft her a rosary. I remember making that rosary, and giving it to her. I remember how she took it out of the pouch, looked at the cross and the beads lovingly, and then carefully cupping the rosary with both her hands. I remember feeling joy in my heart. I remember seeing it hung on the post of her bed last year when I came to visit her at their home. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I remember arriving at Lola Remy's house but without them home. Mama always explained that she was still at <a href="http://opusdei.ph/en-ph/article/anihan-technical-school/"><i>Anihan </i>Technical School</a>, run by her Catholic community, Opus Dei. I know she has helped a lot of women transform their lives. My memory is failing me, but I know she did lectures too. Her example also fueled my desire to teach.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I remember asking my mother if Lola Remy's answer to the question on my slam book was true. Mama told me that it was. As I look into her life again, I realize that all the memories I have of her point me to Jesus. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Her greatest ambition is now also mine. I don't know if many know this, but I'm sure those close to her see it through her actions. Her greatest ambition - <i>'To become a saint.'</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-14947463461199448052016-12-06T00:26:00.000+08:002016-12-06T00:26:51.309+08:00Divine Aspirations<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I learned about Divine Aspirations at a time when I was being 'fire-tested' by God. It was my heart's desire to be able to trust in the Lord, and all his plans completely. Admittedly, I can be demanding and overbearing at times and twice as terrible when things do not go my way. And I often hurt the ones I love the most. Also, I worry a lot, and so I have learned to say "Jesus, I trust in you." every time I do.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R0q5cO3DRM0/WEV8Hb-DgAI/AAAAAAAAG24/eZjp2OjC-vsMO8bpheO2O2BkUkVlyjgewCLcB/s1600/Jesus%2BI%2Btrust%2Bipad%2Bbrown.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R0q5cO3DRM0/WEV8Hb-DgAI/AAAAAAAAG24/eZjp2OjC-vsMO8bpheO2O2BkUkVlyjgewCLcB/s200/Jesus%2BI%2Btrust%2Bipad%2Bbrown.png" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jesus, I trust in you for ipad<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">According to http://catholicism.about.com/od/prayers/g/Aspiration.htm,</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #191919; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">"An aspiration is a short prayer meant to be memorized and repeated throughout the day. Sometimes called an </span><span style="background: 0px 0px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ejaculation</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #191919; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">, these prayers are meant to help us continually turn our thoughts toward God."</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now, I have learned to say more Divine Aspirations like "From all sin, deliver me, O Lord!" especially when I know I am about to sin!</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7FFwSS2gaUE/WEWJYwJ97lI/AAAAAAAAG40/sFjjkMPJhrIH2WSHdlprmm4LyKrHtCCEACLcB/s1600/From%2Ball%2Bsin%2Biphone%2Bblue.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7FFwSS2gaUE/WEWJYwJ97lI/AAAAAAAAG40/sFjjkMPJhrIH2WSHdlprmm4LyKrHtCCEACLcB/s200/From%2Ball%2Bsin%2Biphone%2Bblue.png" width="112" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From all sin... for Iphone</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />This inspired me to make these little prayers into Ipad and Iphone wall papers. Whenever I unlock my ipad or iphone, I see the Aspiration I am trying to memorize.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MQLkBN5UcV4/WEWAYrpIaII/AAAAAAAAG3A/ZoYVuhsTGaMoCB2TtGAS1MpePY-Un1hrACLcB/s1600/2016-12-05%2B22.48.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MQLkBN5UcV4/WEWAYrpIaII/AAAAAAAAG3A/ZoYVuhsTGaMoCB2TtGAS1MpePY-Un1hrACLcB/s320/2016-12-05%2B22.48.02.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Proverbs 13:25. I also tried my favorite verses.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And I am now sharing them with you! Check out the </span><a href="http://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/divine-aspirations.html"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Divine Aspirations page</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> on the blog.</span><div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As Bishop Camillo Ballin, M.C.C.J said in his book, OREMUS, "It is good to memorize these aspirations so that in times of stress, words that can focus your attention back to the holy come easily."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You can choose and <a href="http://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/divine-aspirations.html">download here</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I do hope they will also help you become a step closer to holiness!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Setting Divine Aspirations as wallpaper for your lock screen:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Make sure you download the Aspiration of your choice and add the Jpeg file to your 'Photos'</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Go to Settings, then wallpaper.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Click 'Choose a New Wallpaper</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Pick the wallpaper from your 'All Photos' folder</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Pinch or adjust to fit</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Click Set Lock Screen</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And you're done!</span></div>
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<a href="http://everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com/p/divine-aspirations.html"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Divine Aspirations Page</span></a></div>
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Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541327201714024644.post-80431958506826194062016-11-20T14:53:00.000+08:002016-11-20T22:13:05.964+08:00Guest Post: Romeo and Tess' Adoption Story<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aHP9jNIr3rI/WDBBje5Z-zI/AAAAAAAAGwE/d0wgviqN5worBvkbj4W4l6G5X3tMJDVpwCLcB/s1600/Romeo%2Band%2BTess.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aHP9jNIr3rI/WDBBje5Z-zI/AAAAAAAAGwE/d0wgviqN5worBvkbj4W4l6G5X3tMJDVpwCLcB/s1600/Romeo%2Band%2BTess.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Flashback: </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">CHRISTMAS 1986</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I had just started working for a Japanese
company based in Makati when the season started and part of our company’s
social work was sponsoring a Christmas party at an orphanage, the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/asilodesanvicente/">Asilo de SanVicente de Paul</a> at UN Avenue. We were welcomed warmly by young smiling faces in
their freshly scrubbed clothes lining up the lobby as we made our way inside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aHUeLDBWP5E/WDBLpXuWkoI/AAAAAAAAGwU/WUqSgcBZ9iAa_o2leRsw14dear372-W7gCLcB/s1600/%25E2%2580%259Ckuya%252C%2Bsama%2Bniyo%2Bna%2Bako%252C%2Bkunin%2Bniyo%2Bna%2Bako%25E2%2580%259D.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aHUeLDBWP5E/WDBLpXuWkoI/AAAAAAAAGwU/WUqSgcBZ9iAa_o2leRsw14dear372-W7gCLcB/s200/%25E2%2580%259Ckuya%252C%2Bsama%2Bniyo%2Bna%2Bako%252C%2Bkunin%2Bniyo%2Bna%2Bako%25E2%2580%259D.png" width="133" /></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That was my first encounter with orphaned children and
throughout the days’ event, which included song and dance programs, team games
and gift giving, my fellow co - workers and I bonded with the kids as we shared
meals, getting snippets of their touching stories, how they viewed their
situation and a little puzzled by their wonderment as we tell on what we would
otherwise consider as our quite ordinary life. By the time we wrapped up and
were heading out the gate, tears where falling in everyone’s eyes as the kid’s
where crying and pleading “kuya, sama niyo na ako, kunin niyo na ako” (translation: 'older brother, I want to go with you, take me with you.') as we
left. Looking out from the window of our bus as it made its way out of the
gate, we waved our goodbyes and somehow felt that we could do more, as we
looked forward to a now more appreciated routine life.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">FATHER’S DAY 2016</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Surrounded by kids mostly too young to
talk and some actually just starting to crawl, I, my wife and my 3 children
share a cake with them in what has already been quite a tradition for the past
6 years, that on Father’s day, I become a father to them, on Mother’s day the
orphans have my wife as a mother, and on other special occasions or just random
days when our busy schedules permit, we find ourselves in the orphanage where
we got our first adopted child, our second son. Often enough as I look at their
faces, I am reminded of the kids that I encountered 3 decades ago, so welcoming
and appreciative of the attention we have given, lending proof to the adage
that indeed the best gift you could give to a child is time. Stress reliever is
how my wife amply puts it as she helps around the feeding, my kids play with
their ‘brothers’ and ‘sisters’, as I carry and make funny faces with the
babies.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">THINGS HAPPEN FOR A REASON</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In 2008 my wife and I have been
married for 9 years and we have a son Bridge, who had turned 8. Sitting in the
developmental doctor’s clinic, as he finished up his yearly assessment for our
son who has autism, perhaps seeing first hand our personal struggle, aware that
we have tried all medical, spiritual and mythical ways to have another child
and knowing him personally as our neighbor, he concluded with a suggestion that
we consider adoption, so we can experience how it is to have a normal child and
family, “para matikman niyo naman kung paano magkaroon ng normal na anak at
pamilya” his exact words.</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eIIUEMu1mW0/WDBMfGWrPUI/AAAAAAAAGwY/8SqnvEP4EzodOIqpmf2YcKdSnHI3WjEtwCLcB/s1600/photo-1449672953235-699c39c0605d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eIIUEMu1mW0/WDBMfGWrPUI/AAAAAAAAGwY/8SqnvEP4EzodOIqpmf2YcKdSnHI3WjEtwCLcB/s400/photo-1449672953235-699c39c0605d.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hearing this, my wife and I had a serious discussion back
home, that also took into account the future prospects of our son. It is during
this talk that I recounted my above experience with the Christmas parties our
office had at the orphanage as my wife also shared that she has a cousin who
was adopted. To test a hypothetical decision that we are slowly veering to, we
took a trip back to the Asilo de San Vicente de Paul orphanage which brought
back deep feelings to me and upon consultation with a staff there, took her
advice that led us to the doors of the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/dswdfo4a/">DSWD region 4 office</a> at Alabang.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Participating in the seminar that is the first step in the
process, confirmed our decision. Soon enough we proceeded with the necessary
papers to affect our legal adoption.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">THE FIRST TIME EVER I SAW YOUR FACE</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The much anticipated
day has come, accepting the first boy that was matched to us with no
reservations, we eagerly took the trip to the orphanage to fetch our boy. Along
the way, my wife and I wondered how it will feel like to see him, hold him, for
the first time… will it be the same as the birth of our child? Will there be as
they say a “lukso ng dugo”? A very Pinoy expression that fails a proper English
translation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And so, there he sat at the play area, and as he looked up
at us with those eyes, our question was answered. Holding him with tears of
joy, we knew that in our arms is someone that we will do everything in the
world to nurture, educate protect and love. We called him Blake.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">THIRD TIME’S A CHARM</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> After 3 years, buoyed by the generally
encouraging response and acceptance of our family and friends as well the
lovable experience we were having with our two sons, my wife being an only
child and I having only one sibling, longed for a big family, and so we had our
third child, our second adoption, this time a girl. Bianca is my wife’s clone,
after living with three boys (me included) she finally has someone she can do
girl stuff with. Watching them I just realize how men are from Mars and women
are from Venus, and if Tess had two Mama’s Boys, I now have my very own Daddy’s
Girl.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RzUKI54udK4/WDBN0wHFPeI/AAAAAAAAGwk/HHYFwiA1-EEfUhRWOln8iTZgC4TnuHaVwCLcB/s1600/photo-1476089194965-888edb96d2dc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RzUKI54udK4/WDBN0wHFPeI/AAAAAAAAGwk/HHYFwiA1-EEfUhRWOln8iTZgC4TnuHaVwCLcB/s320/photo-1476089194965-888edb96d2dc.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">THE BIG QUESTION</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As I finalize writing this, having driven
my sons B1 and B2 as I fondly call the kids, B3 is helping her mommy prepare
for the office as she herself will be driven to school later. Since my business
is mostly weekends we have scheduled our routines to complement each other and
while doing away with a yaya (nanny) and househelp can be very tiring, it has given us
the opportunity to be hands on with our kids. They are growing up confidently
as we have very early on agreed not to hide their being adopted, bringing them
regularly to the orphanage and to the Adoption Family Group party, to see that
they are many, that they do have peers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dvpAHQEi8pQ/WDBOpt3QFJI/AAAAAAAAGws/gg4I9Rl6HIQ7zpO81vJFNB3s8fBfoeSEgCLcB/s1600/%25E2%2580%259Ckuya%252C%2Bsama%2Bniyo%2Bna%2Bako%252C%2Bkunin%2Bniyo%2Bna%2Bako%25E2%2580%259D%2B%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dvpAHQEi8pQ/WDBOpt3QFJI/AAAAAAAAGws/gg4I9Rl6HIQ7zpO81vJFNB3s8fBfoeSEgCLcB/s200/%25E2%2580%259Ckuya%252C%2Bsama%2Bniyo%2Bna%2Bako%252C%2Bkunin%2Bniyo%2Bna%2Bako%25E2%2580%259D%2B%25281%2529.png" width="133" /></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We tell them how their biological parents made the sacrifice
so that they will have a better life, and so they must study hard. It is our
idea that the best arm, is the truth. However, we have to confess that although
we have prepared ourselves for the day when our son will finally talk about
that ‘subject’, my wife was momentarily caught off guard. He asked “Do I look
like my original mom?” Original mom being a term that he himself came up with,
maybe because at age 4 he can’t pronounce biological which we used. Finally
catching her breath my wife answered “Yes you look like your original mom, but
you do look similar to your daddy” referring to me. Actively participating in
his sisters adoption also wizened him up. Sometimes he will unexpectedly ask
deep questions, always to his mom (true blue mama’s boy) like “Why did God put
me in the orphanage”? Disarming and at the same time assuring that he can talk
about it with us and sometimes we even hear him lecturing his sister about it.
One of the questions always put up by people with regards to adoption is “How
can you love someone that is not your blood”? Our adopted kids constantly make
us feel that YES, they can love us, just as unconditionally.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">TODAY 2016</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I am now 52 years old while my wife has turned
45. Never did we imagine that at this age when most of our age bracket have
grandchildren that we will still be chasing after kids, picking them up even if
our backs ache when they fall, carrying them when they are tired, getting
migraine from all the shouting and the noise, tidying up after their games,
controlling our temper when they make mistakes, putting effort to teach them
right and answer their endless questions. My wife and I even have a running
joke where we ask each other, “Whose bright idea was this anyway”! But
seriously, after we have tucked them in for bedtime, we look at them and have a
fulfilling sigh, we see bright possibilities and look at another day’s job well
done.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">FLASHBACK: CHRISTMAS 1986</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As our bus makes it’s way out the gates of
the orphanage we waved our goodbyes and somehow felt that we could do more…
little did I know.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Learn more about local adoption <a href="http://www.dswd.gov.ph/legal-adoption-placing-a-child-with-a-loving-family/">here</a> and <a href="http://www.dswd.gov.ph/faqs/local-adoption-requirements-and-procedures/">here</a>.</span></div>
<br />Weenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03172228653750273802noreply@blogger.com0Philippines12.879721 121.77401699999996-2.8285595000000008 101.11971999999996 28.5880015 142.42831399999994