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by Jessica | Dec 29, 2022

Good Shepherd’s Garden Party :: Week Five

Apr 20, 2010 | Good Shepherd's Garden Party | 2 Comments

Week 5

“The Gardener Plants Paradise”

This Week’s Good Shepherd’s Garden Party Menu

Maple Leaf Cookies
Lemon Crème Flower Cookies
Fresh Fruit
Owl Cupcakes
Olives and/or Rosemary Olive Oil Crackers
Palm Tree Picks in Cheese Cubes
Lily Sandwiches

Decorating Ideas

Roses, Lilies and/or other Flowers
Palm Tree Decorations (Picks, Napkins, etc.)

By Jessica at Shower of Roses and Charlotte at Waltzing Matilda

*Please feel free to modify and be creative with these plans to suit your family!

Recipes and Suggestions

29. Tree of Life’s Leaves

To keep things simple, we choose to include leaf and flower shaped cookies made by Dare.

Maple Leaf Cookies

1 package of Maple Leaf Cookies by Dare

“Then he showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb through the middle of the street of the city; also, on either side of the river, the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit each month; and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. There shall no more be anything accursed, but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and his servants shall worship him; they shall see his face, and his name shall be on their foreheads. And night shall be no more; they need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they shall reign for ever and ever.” Revelation 22: 1-5

30. The Tree of Life’s Flowers

Flower Shaped Cookies

1 package of Lemon Crème Cookies by Dare

“For you shall go out in joy, and be led forth in peace; the mountains and the hills before you shall break forth into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Instead of the thorn shall come up the cypress; instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle; and it shall be to the LORD for a memorial, for an everlasting sign which shall not be cut off.” Isaiah 55: 12-13

31. The Tree of Life’s Fruit

Serve a platter of fresh fruit of your choice.

Photo Credit: Waltzing Matilda

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. Let us have no self-conceit, no provoking of one another, no envy of one another.”
Galatians 5: 22-2

32. The Owl

These Owl cupcakes are too cute NOT to include in our party!

Owl Cupcakes

Ingredients:
Cupcakes
Chocolate Frosting
2 Oreos per cupcakes, split open
1 Reese Pieces per cupcake
2 Junior Mints per cupcake

Carefully separate two Oreo cookies. Use the halves with the cream as eyes. Break one of the other halves (without cream) in half and cover with chocolate frosting to use as the tufts of feathers over the eyes. Use Junior Mints for the pupils.

Photo Credit: Waltzing Matilda

“I am like a vulture of the wilderness, like an owl of the waste places; I lie awake, I am like a lonely bird on the housetop. All the day my enemies taunt me, those who deride me use my name for a curse. For I eat ashes like bread, and mingle tears with my drink, because of thy indignation and anger; for thou hast taken me up and thrown me away. My days are like an evening shadow; I wither away like grass. But thou, O LORD, art enthroned for ever; thy name endures to all generations.” Psalm 102: 6-12

33. The Olive Tree

Serve a dish of Olives and/or Rosemary Olive Oil Crackers

“At the end of forty days Noah opened the window of the ark which he had made, and sent forth a raven; and it went to and fro until the waters were dried up from the earth. Then he sent forth a dove from him, to see if the waters had subsided from the face of the ground; but the dove found no place to set her foot, and she returned to him to the ark, for the waters were still on the face of the whole earth. So he put forth his hand and took her and brought her into the ark with him. He waited another seven days, and again he sent forth the dove out of the ark; and the dove came back to him in the evening, and lo, in her mouth a freshly plucked olive leaf; so Noah knew that the waters had subsided from the earth.” Genesis 8: 6-11

34. The Palm Tree

Initially we were going to suggest Coconut Milkshakes served in palm tree glasses, but to keep it simple we opted for Palm Tree Picks in Cheese Cubes. These should be easy to find at your local Party Store, however we have also created a printable version as another option.

Palm Tree Picks in Cheese Cubes

Photo Credit: Palm Tree Parasol Party Picks from Party City

“The next day a great crowd who had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!” And Jesus found a young ass and sat upon it; as it is written, “Fear not, daughter of Zion; behold, your king is coming, sitting on an ass’s colt!” His disciples did not understand this at first; but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that this had been written of him and had been done to him. The crowd that had been with him when he called Laz’arus out of the tomb and raised him from the dead bore witness.” John 12: 12-17

35. Roses and Lilies

An easy alternative to the following menu item would be a bouquet of roses and lilies for the table!

Lily Sandwiches

Ingredients:
8 oz. cream cheese
2-3 TBSP milk
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp paprika
20 slices fresh white bread
green pepper or green onions
carrot

Directions:

Combine cream cheese, milk, salt, and paprika. Beat with a mixer on medium speed until good and creamy. Remove crusts from bread. Roll into cornucopia shape by bringing two straight edges together and letting them overlap slightly. Hold the edges together with a little bit of the cheese mixture, pressing gently. Roll and chill the bread “lilies” before filling. After sandwiches are filled with the cream cheese mixture, insert a thin strip of carrot for a stamen. Cut bell pepper into leaf shapes and attach a leaf to each sandwich with additional cheese or stick a green onion, in the pinched end, as a stem.

Photo Credit: Shower of Roses & Waltzing Matilda (these were made with Peanut Butter and Bananas)

“I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys. As a lily among brambles, so is my love among maidens. As an apple tree among the trees of the wood, so is my beloved among young men. With great delight I sat in his shadow, and his fruit was sweet to my taste. He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love. Sustain me with raisins, refresh me with apples; for I am sick with love. O that his left hand were under my head, and that his right hand embraced me! I adjure you, O daughters of Jerusalem, by the gazelles or the hinds of the field, that you stir not up nor awaken love until it please.” Song of Songs 2: 1-7

Shopping List

Fresh Produce:
Fresh Fruit of Choice
Carrots
Green Pepper or Green Onion

Dairy:
Cheese Cubes
8 oz – Cream Cheese
Milk

Breads:
White Sandwich Bread

Canned & Dry Goods:
Olives

Spices:
Salt
Paprika

Baking Supplies:
Cake Mix + ingredients for Cupcakes
Chocolate Frosting

Snacks:
Rosemary and Olive Oil Crackers

Cookies & Sweets:
Maple Leaf Cookies by Dare
Lemon Crème Cookies by Dare
Oreo Cookies
Junior Mints
Reese’s Pieces

Other:
Palm Tree Picks or Toothpicks
Fresh Flowers

You can download this post in a printable form here.

A Mr. Linky will be posted at Catholic Cuisine on May 10th, for anyone who would like to share the pictures from your own Good Shepherd’s Garden Party!

My Daybook :: April 19, 2010

Apr 19, 2010 | Daybook | 11 Comments

Outside my window… our circular driveway is still covered with all the road markings created by my children with sidewalk chalk over the weekend! There are yellow lines, arrows, speed limit signs, yield and stop signs, parking spots (including handicap parking on either side of our front entryway), and even construction cones! I totally cracked up when Rascal gave Captain a ticket for not making a “complete stop” at the stop sign and when they rang the doorbell asking to “speak to Mr. Mayor” (aka: Daddy).

I am listening to… the birds chirping outside the open school room window. The forecast keeps saying it is going to rain, but it hasn’t started yet and we are enjoying the beautiful weather while it lasts. I am so ready for summer to arrive!

I am thinking… about blogging in general, and this post and this post in particular.

I am thankful for… the blessings I’ve received through blogging, despite the drawbacks and challenges.

I am hoping and praying… for my little niece who is still in the NICU. She has gained a few ounces and now weighs 3 pounds 10 ounces, but has had a couple other little complications. Please continue to keep her in your prayers!

From the kitchen… I have a “Fairy House” cake to bake for a little girl who will be turning 5 tomorrow. Wish me luck!

From the learning rooms… a little case of BURNOUT, if you haven’t noticed by my lack of posting! 😉

Living the Liturgical Year at Home… We are still celebrating Easter! Our 2nd Garden Party was a hit and my children are looking forward to the next one. We will also be celebrate the feast of St. George with our third Dragon Cake on Friday. (Thank you Charlotte for inspiring this tradition!) If any of our local friends would like to help devour our dragon, meet us at the park and bring swords!

I am creating… the plans for the fifth Good Shepherd Garden Party with Charlotte. They should be posted tomorrow, so check back then!

I am wearing… sunglasses whenever I leave the house! I burst a blood vessel in my eye on Sunday morning and, if I look down, I look pretty scary.

I am reading… Simplicity Parenting: Using the Extraordinary Power of Less to Raise Calmer, Happier, and More Secure Kids. I’m on the third chapter “Environment,” which has been my favorite so far. I am so ready to go and create a “toy library” and simplify our home (and schedule) even more!

On my iTouch… a low battery warning… That reminds me, do any of you have a favorite iPod/iTouch dock with speakers to recommend?

Pondering these words…

“So often people say that we should look to the elderly, learn from their wisdom, their many years. I disagree, I say we should look to the young: untarnished, without stereotypes implanted in their minds, no poison, no hatred in their hearts. When we learn to see life through the eyes of a child, that is when we become truly wise.” ~ Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Our little Rose… is just about the sweetest thing EVER! Here is one more picture I took of her last week, with her little dolly from my friend Aimee!

Noticing that… I am seriously behind with emails once again. I never was able to “catch up” during Lent as I had hoped. Sorry!

Around the house… there is ~~a big huge box~~ the beginnings of a spacecraft in my bedroom waiting to be completed when time and weather allows. Has anyone seen Snuggles? 😉

One of my favorite things.. the smiles on my children’s faces when they receive a letter or package in the mail. Twinkle Toes was blessed with a letter from her Godmother on Friday, a package containing some Fairy Crowns and a letter from her very first pen-pal, and yet another letter today from another new pen-pal who is also one of my Goddaughters! She has been SO excited! (See the pictures below.) It is so cute to see her concentrating on re-reading the letters herself!

A few plans for the rest of the week:

Tuesday: A Birthday Celebration for Chiquita
Wednesday: Hockey Lessons
Thursday: Blue Knights
Friday: Morning Mass & St. George’s Day Party at the Park
Saturday: My brother’s birthday (Could you all please say a quick prayer for him?)

A Picture thought I am sharing:

Our Second Good Shepherd’s Garden Party : Welcome to the Lord’s Table!

Apr 18, 2010 | Good Shepherd's Garden Party | 3 Comments

Today was the first “free” Saturday we have had in months (the boys Hockey lessons just changed from Saturday to Wednesday) so the plan was to spend the day working in the yard and cleaning out our little detached garage (so we have somewhere to move our kitchen/dining furniture, washer/dryer, etc. when we begin our remodel) and then have our second Good Shepherd’s Garden Party.

I knew that it was going to be a busy day, and that I wouldn’t have much time to spend in the kitchen, so I made a few little revisions, to further simplify the menu, and picked up a couple take-n-bake pizzas (while I was in town getting gas for our lawn mower) so that we could have our ~~Garden~~ Pizza Party for dinner.

We all enjoyed the party and I am so glad that this year’s plans seem to be working out so well for our family! It is so much easier for me to plan and prepare, it gives my children something to look forward to and work towards all week, and it is so nice that Hubby can join the celebration!

Here are a few pictures from this week’s party:

~ The Table and Chairs ~

Captain helped me set the table and decorated the chairs with streamers.

~ The Bread ~

Instead of baking the cute Lamb of God Rolls, I simplified by using the 16 frozen dinner rolls I had in my freezer to make another bunch of grapes like we made for the feast of St. Joseph.

~ The Honey ~

I pulled out a jar of delicious Monastery Creamed Honey that was a gift from one of my brother-in-laws. Yum!

~ The Wine ~

Chiquita made our Sparkling White Grape Juice…

… and Twinkle Toes skewered the grapes and added them to the wine glasses.

It turned out very good, and even Snuggles who at first wouldn’t try it insisting that “I no like GRAPES!” asked for ~~seconds~~ thirds.

~ The Fruit ~

See, I wasn’t kidding when I said that I simplified this menu! We’ll save our 12 Fruit Salad for Pentecost Sunday.

~ The Milk ~

This was the highlight of the menu to be sure! I served vanilla ice cream, and let the children make their own sundaes. What a treat!

Please ignore the sunglasses… I’m not sure where those came from?!? He wasn’t wearing them when we all sat down for dinner! That little guy keeps us entertained ~~at the table~~ CONSTANTLY!!

~ The Pizza ~

I wasn’t planning on including a picture of our pizza in my post. But really, it was SO GOOD! I picked up a Hawaiian Pizza for my children (their favorite) and decided to use my $4.99 coupon for a DeLite (thin crust) Pizza for Hubby and I. I think I have a new favorite pizza… Papa Murphy’s new Chicken Pesto Pizza is delicious!! I substituted Spinach for the green onions, but I am sure it would be good either way.

Well, it is getting late and I need to get the children’s Mass clothes ready for tomorrow and then try and get a little sleep. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone’s Garden Parties over at Catholic Cuisine on Monday!

4 Months Old

Apr 16, 2010 | Baby "Rose", Home Videos | 21 Comments

I do have pictures to share from today’s Little Flowers meeting (come to think of it, I still haven’t blogged about our last meeting either!), but first here are a couple more pictures of our little Rose, who is 4 months old today!

My Daybook :: April 13, 2010

Apr 13, 2010 | Daybook | 15 Comments

Outside my window… it is rainy. I am so ready for the sun to come out to stay so we can start spending more time outside!

I am listening to… my kids singing “the Eastern Border of the United States!” I love Geography Songs! (The CD we have is also available as an MP3 download.)

I am thinking… about Chiquita’s birthday… It is coming up quickly and I still haven’t chosen a birthday gift for her! I am thinking about getting her this set of cookie cutters to go along with the Alphabet Path. I also would like to get her some Stockmar Crayons, but other than those two things I am stuck. I really don’t want to add any more toys to our home at this point, and we have enough unread books to last quite some time. I am considering Play Silks, but they just seem so expensive for what they are (and I would like to get a variety of colors…) At this point, since I am running out of time, I am thinking about ordering some plain white ones to give her along with a whole bunch of Kool-aid packets and we can dye our own. Hummmm…..

I am thankful that… everything turned out okay, after the scare of my life on Sunday afternoon. Deo Gratias! (I’m not going to go into the details here on my blog at Hubby’s request, but some of you know what I am referring to…)

I am hoping and praying… that my little niece grows quickly and that she will be able to go home soon. I was blessed to be able to hold her this past weekend and she is tiny. My “little” Rose seems HUGE now!

From the kitchen… Last night I served Orange Chicken (the Orange Chicken in the freezer section at Costco is one of my “Ahh! It’s dinner time and I haven’t planned anything yet!” meals), Rice and Steamed Broccoli. This morning we had Irish Oatmeal. Tonight the kids will be headed out to dinner with their Daddy since it is Bunco night at our house this month! I am planning on serving Mini Chicken & Cheese Tacos, Chips, Guacamole & Salsa, Mini Angel Food Cake & Brownies (they are in the oven right now!) with Strawberries and Whipped Cream, and Margaritas.

From the learning rooms… We are just now (finally!) getting back into our “regular” school schedule, after Spring Break, Easter and the flu! The girls will be starting “T” week and the boys will be getting back to History, Science & Geography. (I didn’t give them much of a break from Math and Language Arts.)

Living the Liturgical Year at Home… we are celebrating the Easter season with The Garden of the Good Shepherd: A Sticker Calendar to Count the Fifty Days of Easter and with a weekly Good Shepherd’s Garden Party. Our first party was so much fun and my children are looking forward to our second party this coming weekend!

I am creating… lots of plans! Garden Party Plans, Bunco Plans, Little Flower Plans, Fairy Birthday Party Plans, House Remodel Plans, Homeschooling Plans, etc… No wonder I’m feeling a little bit busy at the moment!

I am wearing… sweats. I am hoping to exercise, and then clean the house, before getting ready for company this evening.

I am reading… Simplicity Parenting: Using the Extraordinary Power of Less to Raise Calmer, Happier, and More Secure Kids.

On my iTouch… Monopoly. I downloaded it when I was stuck on the couch with the flu last Tuesday.

Pondering these words…

“Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself. Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections, but instantly set about remedying them – every day begin the task anew.” ~ St. Francis de Sales

Our little Rose… is cooing and giggling and the boys are sure she is saying “Hi!” I LOVE her little laugh and start giggling myself every time I hear it. Oh, and she is very ticklish!

Noticing that… people can be so rude! On our way into Mass on Sunday an older man passed us coming out of the prior Mass and said loudly “I sure hope they can afford all those kids!” Some people! I’m still thinking about how I should have responded to that… Instead I just repeated it loudly when Hubby turned and asked “What did he say?!” Sigh… God has blessed us with “all” these wonderful children and we trust that He will provide. He always does!

One of my favorite things.. Tiered Trays and Trifle Bowls! Have you noticed? I recently added the new Adjustable Tiered Tower from Pampered Chef to my collection since I happen to be an “active” consultant at the moment and was able to purchase it as a “sample” with a 50% discount! I love that it all comes apart (super easily) for storage. I also love my Trifle Bowl. Oh, and it’s on special this month! (If any one would like to place an order, let me know! FYI: Hosts can purchase the new Tiered Tower or the Trifle Bowl for only $15.80 and get free shipping in addition to other benefits by hosting a show – ie: collecting $150 in orders.)

A few plans for the rest of the week:

Tuesday: Bunco
Wednesday: Hockey for the boys
Thursday: Little Flowers Meeting for the girls
Friday: Mass & Benediction
Saturday: Clean the garage and then have another Garden Party!
Sunday: Mass

A Picture thought I am sharing:

(Photo Credits: Hubby)

Good Shepherd’s Garden Party :: Week Four

Apr 13, 2010 | Good Shepherd's Garden Party | 6 Comments

Week 4

“The Wind and Sea Obey Him.”

This Week’s Good Shepherd’s Garden Party Menu

Apple or Banana Boats with Pretzel Masts
And Fruit Roll-Up Sails
Net Shaped Pretzels
Goldfish Crackers
Mini Pulled Barbecue Pork Sandwiches
Octopus Candy Cupcakes
“Sea” Water

Decorating Ideas

Pinwheels & Bubbles

By Jessica at Shower of Roses and Charlotte at Waltzing Matilda

*Please feel free to modify and be creative with these plans to suit your family!

Recipes and Suggestions

22. The Boat

We combined the first three symbols into one menu offering.

Apple or Banana Boats
with Pretzel Masts and Fruit Roll-Up Sails

Apple Boat Ingredients:

½ of an Apple, cored
Peanut Butter
Pretzel Sticks
Fruit Roll-Up

Banana Boat Ingredients:

½ of a Banana, sliced in half
Scoop of Ice Cream
Pretzel Sticks
Fruit Roll-Up
Blueberries & Mandarin Oranges (optional)

Directions: Assemble Boats

Photo Credits: Waltzing Matilda and Shower of Roses

“And when he got into the boat, his disciples followed him. And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep. And they went and woke him, saying, “Save, Lord; we are perishing.” And he said to them, “Why are you afraid, O men of little faith?” Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. And the men marveled, saying, “What sort of man is this, that even winds and sea obey him.” Matthew 8: 23-27

23. The Mast

“Your borders are in the heart of the seas; your builders made perfect your beauty. They made all your planks of fir trees from Senir; they took a cedar from Lebanon to make a mast for you. Of oaks of Bashan they made your oars; they made your deck of pines from the coasts of Cyprus, inlaid with ivory. Of fine embroidered linen from Egypt was your sail, serving as your ensign; blue and purple from the coasts of Eli’shah was your awning.” Ezekiel 27: 4-7

24. The Sail

“As day was about to dawn, Paul urged them all to take some food, saying, “Today is the fourteenth day that you have continued in suspense and without food, having taken nothing. Therefore I urge you to take some food; it will give you strength, since not a hair is to perish from the head of any of you.” And when he had said this, he took bread, and giving thanks to God in the presence of all he broke it and began to eat. Then they all were encouraged and ate some food themselves. (We were in all two hundred and seventy-six persons in the ship.) And when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship, throwing out the wheat into the sea. Now when it was day, they did not recognize the land, but they noticed a bay with a beach, on which they planned if possible to bring the ship ashore. So they cast off the anchors and left them in the sea, at the same time loosening the ropes that tied the rudders; then hoisting the foresail to the wind they made for the beach. But striking a shoal they ran the vessel aground; the bow stuck and remained immovable, and the stern was broken up by the surf. The soldiers’ plan was to kill the prisoners, lest any should swim away and escape; but the centurion, wishing to save Paul, kept them from carrying out their purpose. He ordered those who could swim to throw themselves overboard first and make for the land, and the rest on planks or on pieces of the ship. And so it was that all escaped to land.” Acts 27: 33-44

25. The Net

We thought Pretzel Snaps would be simple and work well to symbolize “The Net.”

“And passing along by the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew the brother of Simon casting a net in the sea; for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them, “Follow me and I will make you become fishers of men.” And immediately they left their nets and followed him. And going on a little farther, he saw James the son of Zeb’edee and John his brother, who were in their boat mending the nets. And immediately he called them; and they left their father Zeb’edee in the boat with the hired servants, and followed him..” Mark 1: 16-20

26. The Fishes

A package of Goldfish crackers will work well for this menu item.

“Just as day was breaking, Jesus stood on the beach; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to them, “Children, have you any fish?” They answered him, “No.” He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in, for the quantity of fish. That disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his clothes, for he was stripped for work, and sprang into the sea. But the other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, but about a hundred yards off.” John 21: 4-8

27. The Barbecue

This recipe is from Charlotte and it sounds great!

Mini Pulled Barbecue Pork Sandwiches

Ingredients:
2-3 lbs. of thick sliced pork, cooked or at least browned (roast or chops)
1 1/2 C. ketchup
1/2 C. water
3/4 C. mild salsa
1 tsp. cumin
1/2 tbl. dried minced onion
1 tsp. mesquite liquid smoke
Mini Sandwich Buns

Directions:
Put pork in crock pot on high for 4-6 hours. If it looks dry during cooking, add some more water/ ketchup mixture. As the pork cooks, it will shred on it’s own or will a little bit of help from a fork.

Photo Credit: Waltzing Matilda

“When they got out on land, they saw a charcoal fire there, with fish lying on it, and bread. Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish that you have just caught.” So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, a hundred and fifty-three of them; and although there were so many, the net was not torn. Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” Now none of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord. Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and so with the fish. This was now the third time that Jesus was revealed to the disciples after he was raised from the dead.” John 21: 9-14

28. The Leviathan

Octopus Candy Cupcakes

Frosted Cup cakes topped with Octopus Candies

Option: If you can’t find Octopus Candies (I used ones made by Trolli), make your own with Lollipops, Gummy Worms and Mini Chocolate Chips Directions: For each octopus, insert the stick of a lollipop into the center of a cupcake so that the candy rests just above the frosting (if the stick is too long, trim it first). Use kitchen scissors to snip two gummy worms in half to create four equal lengths. Then carefully snip each piece in half lengthwise to end up with eight legs. Press the tops of the legs into the frosting around the lollipop and arrange the ends so that they curve and dangle over the edge of the cupcake. For eyes, use the tip of a toothpick to place two small blobs of frosting at the base of the lollipop and then press in two mini chocolate chips, tips down.

Photo Credit: Shower of Roses & Disney Family

“O LORD, how manifold are thy works! In wisdom hast thou made them all; the earth is full of thy creatures. Yonder is the sea, great and wide, which teems with things innumerable, living things both small and great. There go the ships, and Leviathan which thou didst form to sport in it. These all look to thee, to give them their food in due season. When thou givest to them, they gather it up; when thou openest thy hand, they are filled with good things. When thou hidest thy face, they are dismayed; when thou takest away their breath, they die and return to their dust. When thou sendest forth thy Spirit, they are created; and thou renewest the face of the ground.” Psalm 104: 24-30

Shopping List

Fresh Produce:
Apples or Bananas (1/2 each)
Blueberries (for Banana Boats)

Meat Department:
2-3 pounds thick sliced pork

Breads:
Mini Sandwich Buns

Freezer:
Ice Cream (for Banana Boats)

Canned & Dry Goods:
Peanut Butter (for Apple Boats)
Mandarin Oranges (for Banana Boats)

Spices:
Cumin
Dried Minced Onion

Condiments:
Ketchup
Mild Salsa
Mesquite Liquid Smoke

Baking Supplies:
Cup cakes
Frosting
Blue Food Coloring (optional)

Snacks:
Pretzel Sticks
Net-Shaped Pretzels
Gold Fish Crackers
Fruit Roll-Ups

Cookies & Sweets:
Octopus Candies
Or: Lollipops, gummy worms and mini chocolate chips

Beverages:
Water

Other:
Pinwheels
Bubbles

You can download this post in a printable form here.

A Mr. Linky will be posted at Catholic Cuisine on May 3rd, for anyone who would like to share the pictures from your own Good Shepherd’s Garden Party!

Our First Good Shepherd’s Garden Party : The Good Shepherd’s Pasture

Apr 12, 2010 | Good Shepherd's Garden Party | 8 Comments

We had our first Good Shepherd’s Garden Party on Friday evening and it was enjoyed by everyone! The children all choose one of the menu items to help me prepare and we had the table all set and ready for when Hubby arrived home from work. Here are a few pictures from our party:

FYI: It’s not a good idea to ask your son to bring you the iron and plug it in, before making sure that it is in the upright position. It might just burn a hole right through your new vinyl easter themed table cloth… I’m just sayin! 😉 Thankfully we were able to hide it under one of the plates!

~ Mini Shepherd Pies ~

These were SO good! I pretty much followed the recipe, substituting corn for the peas and carrots. It made me laugh when Hubby said, “These are really good, but do they come in a size large?!”

~ Shepherd’s Crooks ~

~ God’s Sheep in a Sheepfold ~

~ Graham Cracker Gates ~

Rascal really enjoyed making the Graham Cracker Gates!

~ Ewe and Ram Cupcakes ~

The girls had so much fun decorating all the Ewe and Ram cupcakes!

~ Lamb’s Wool ~

The Lamb’s Wool Punch turned out pretty good… Even my picky little Snuggles kept asking for more!

~ Wolf Paw Cookies ~

I apparently purchased Voortman’s Shortbread Cookies, instead of the Iced Almonette, but they still turned out looking like Wolf Paws!

I must say that having a weekly party is SO. MUCH. EASIER. than trying to provide an extra activity every day. I am so glad we made this change for our family this year! My children are already looking forward to our second Good Shepherd’s Garden Party later this week.

Don’t forget to head over to Catholic Cuisine to share pictures from your party!

On Easter Day ~ 2010

Apr 10, 2010 | Easter, Easter Baskets | 8 Comments

After arriving home from Easter Sunday Mass we continued our celebration at home:

Easter Lilies

My husband bought the most beautiful lilies and tulips this year! I’ve been enjoying them all week as they have continued to bloom.

Baby’s First Easter

Our Alleluia, Easter Books, Resurrection Set and Lamb Cake

Easter Baskets

Inside Captains Basket: Army Men, Bubble Gum Tape, The Flying Ensign and The Reluctant Saint

(The Reluctant Saint is a WONDERFUL movie! I have been looking for a copy for years and was very excited when it was rereleased!)

Inside Rascals Basket: Army Men, Flashlight, Bubble Gum Tape, and Man to Mangia.

Inside Twinkle Toes Basket: Hand Gloves, The Bird’s Gift: A Ukrainian Easter Story, Fairies Cookbook, Mushroom Table & Stools and some baking supplies

Inside Chiquita’s Basket: Hang Gloves, The Egg Tree, Pink Princess Tea Parties, Crown Cookie Cutter and a few other baking supplies.

Inside Snuggles Basket: Easter, Noah’s Ark Easter Eggs and Signing Time! Season 2 Volume 7: My Favorite Sports.

Inside Rose’s Basket: A new outfit for Spring with a matching hair bow and A Tale for Easter. I also included a gift (the darling little St. Therese Doll and Rose fabric Shoes!) she had just recieved from a friend! Thank you Kelly!!

All the children also received a Chocolate Cross, religious stickers and some Annie’s Bunny Snacks.

Easter Candle and Jelly Beans

I was very thankful to Evann, at 11pm on Holy Saturday, for sharing the link to this printable candle wrap. I usually decorate our own, but this year I ran out of time.

Easter Brunch

Baked Blueberry & Pecan Crusted French Toast
(I used this recipe with just a couple modifications. NOTE: DO NOT forget to grease your pan!)
Served with Maple Syrup, Bacon, Fresh Fruit, and Orange Juice

Easter Dinner

Grilled Tri-Tip served with Pecan, Cranberry and Feta Salad, Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Asparagus, and Dinner Rolls with Lamb Shaped Butter

My brother Paul joined us for dinner.

Easter Desserts

A Lamb Shaped Pound Cake served with Fresh Strawberries, Whipped Cream and Vanilla Ice Cream

(I made the lamb cake on Holy Saturday using a boxed pound cake mix. I did grease and flour the pan really well, and thankfully had no complications removing the lamb from the pan.)

Chocolate Nests made by the girls on Holy Saturday

Easter Egg Hunt

We had a nice, though cold, morning, but then it started raining and SNOWING! Finally, around 6pm, it had cleared up enough for an outdoor Easter Egg Hunt!

Making Resurrection Cookies

Apr 9, 2010 | Easter, Kids in the Kitchen | 4 Comments

Even though we make Resurrection Cookies every year, this was the first time that Snuggles has participated. One of the many things I love about having lots of children is that there are so many things we get to enjoy for “the first time” over and over again! Even my older children, who have now memorized how to make these cookies, enjoyed participating once again and watching their little brother’s reactions to each step of the process.

While I poured the vinegar into a little pinch bowl and explained that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross he was given vinegar to drink, Snuggles begged for a taste. I wish I had a picture of his reaction… It was very similar to Chiquita’s from a couple years ago.

After adding the egg whites and vinegar to our bowl, I gave each child a little salt to taste.

Once again Snuggles was anxious to taste it, but then said “I no like salt!” and then more than willingly added the rest to the bowl.

Captain always beats the egg whites. Sigh… He is growing up so fast!

When it was time to add the sugar, Snuggles said “No thank you! I no like taste!!” After tasting vinegar and salt, he wasn’t about to try one more thing! Twinkle Toes then folded in the pecans.

All the children took turns scooping the cookies onto the cookie sheet…

… and then sealing them into the “tomb.”

Easter Morning, when we got home from Mass, the children found that the tomb was cracked open and the centers of all the cookies were empty.

Decorating and Painting Eggs for Easter

Apr 9, 2010 | Easter, Kids in the Kitchen | 0 Comments

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Our Family

Sean & Jessica, Captain-25, Ranger-23, Twinkle Toes-22, Chiquita-20, Snuggles-18, Rose-15, Bud-13, Grace-8 and Joy-6 (blog nicknames)

A Little About Me

Hi! I'm Jessica, a Roman Catholic wife and home educating mother to our nine children. I was home educated myself, along with my eleven younger siblings. I have a special devotion to St. Therese, through whom I have been given much help and many blessings--the beautiful "Shower of Roses" that she has sent my way! Here I will record a few of the blessings I treasure. Please remember that what you see here is just a little glimpse at our lives, so please say a prayer for us, as we continue to strive for holiness.

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Prayer of Mothers

Father in heaven, grant me the grace to appreciate the dignity which you have conferred on me. Let me realize that not even the Angels have been blessed with such a privilege—to share in your creative miracle and bring new Saints to heaven. Make me a good mother to all my children after the example of Mary, the Mother of your Son. Through the intercession of Jesus and Mary I ask your continued blessings on my family. Let us all be dedicated to your service on earth and attain the eternal happiness of your kingdom in heaven. Amen.