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by | Dec 29, 2022

Stout Grove :: Visiting the Coastal Redwoods


After the boys’ high school golf tournament, we made one last stop before heading back home. I always love visiting the Redwoods! It had been awhile since our last visits to Stout Grove (here and here) and a first for our youngest two. I haven’t been able to walk much the past month or so (due to some issues I’m having with my hips/spine/joints – most likely from when I broke my tailbone combined with the added pregnancy weight) but my current weekly visits to the physical therapist/chiropractor have been making a big difference and I was so happy to be able to walk the beautiful loop trail through these colossal 300-foot+ ancient coastal redwoods! 




“Even the Shamrocks here are huge!”



 


 


 


 

“We are making a triceratops!” 





“It is not so much for its beauty that the forest makes a claim upon men’s hearts, as for that subtle something, that quality of air, that emanation from the old trees, that so wonderfully changes and renews a weary spirit.” – Robert Louis Stevenson

Overnight Getaway to the Coast

Our older boys had a high school golf tournament over at the coast earlier this week and we were able to turn it into a little overnight getaway for the whole family! 
 
We loaded up our soon-to-be-too-small nine-seat Suburban (we need one of these asap), left early in the morning the day before their tournament, dropped them off at the golf course for a practice round, and were able to check in early to our hotel room overlooking the beautiful Pacific Ocean. 
It rained for the first half of the boys’ tournament but, by the time we checked out of our room at noon to head over and watch the second half, the sun had come out and it was such a beautiful afternoon!  
Ranger got his first birdie (outside of his home/practice course) on hole #4! 
 

Thankfully golf carts were available for this tournament, making it possible for me to watch while we all enjoyed the sunshine and fresh ocean air!

 

We got to watch Ranger par hole 15, but missed his birdie on hole 17 since we circled back to watch Captain for a few more holes.

The boys both did great. Ranger had a new personal best and tied for 4th place! 

On Palm Sunday

🌿Gloria, laus et honor tibi sit, Rex Christe Redemptor, Cui puerile decus prompsit Hosanna pium.🌿

Yesterday we learned about one of the traditional liturgical rites of Palm Sunday… Once the priest (altar boy in this picture book we have) arrived at the church doors during the procession with palms, he would knock loudly with the foot of the cross, and then the door would open.

Update: The picture book is called My Holy Week Missal. I recently ordered a couple EF missals  (A Young Catholic’s Daily Missal for our soon-to-be 10 year old and Blessed Be God for myself) from Angelus Press (affiliated with SSPX) and added this book to my order. I really like it! It includes illustrations and explanations (based on the Latin Mass) for Palm Sunday through Easter Sunday.

Lent and Easter Blocks (or Craft Sheets to make your own!) • My Holy Week Missal
“It was a beautiful image of Jesus Himself who, with the wood of the cross, with the power of his love which he gives, knocked from the side of the world on God’s door; from the side of a world that was unable to find access to God. With the cross, Jesus opens wide the door of God, the door between God and men. Now it is open.” {source}

The Jesus Tree :: A Lenten Craft and Bible Study

First Communion BibleLenten Jesus Tree Verses
This is the 10th Lenten season since I created a Jesus Tree to use with our children during Lent! I have really loved using it over the years as a Lenten Bible Study picking up when our annual Advent Bible Study leaves off.  So many wonderful (and funny!) memories over the years… 
Last year, since we were traveling during some of Lent and Holy Week, I didn’t end up pulling it out to use with our little ones, and this year our schedule has been so packed that I decided to just keep things simple and we’ve been focusing on our annual Lenten calendars, Stations of the Cross every Friday night, and additional books (including books for the older children) when we can fit them in each day. 
Yesterday afternoon, after getting home from work, I decided to print out the new Jesus Tree Lenten Activity Printable from Do Small Things With Great Love and work on it with our two youngest children. They are really enjoying this fun and educational craft and are already back to coloring more of the ornaments this morning as we catch up! 

I didn’t have any poster boards large enough for the crosses, so we just printed them out on card stock and glued the four sections together. I’m pretty sure our little guy used a different shade of brown for each section.. lots of variations in the wood of his cross!

While they were working on coloring their crosses today I pulled out some additional books to read with them during these last couple weeks of Lent and displayed them on our portable library! (I’m really loving this new addition to our homeschool!)  One of the older girls helped set up some of our Holy Week/Easter themed toys for them as well! 

He Is Risen! Easter Puzzle with Jesus and Mary Magdalen from Naturally Catholic 
Jesus, the New Adam and Mary, the New Eve from Almond Rod Toys
Last Supper Wood Blocks and Wooden Mass Kit from Almond Rod Toys
Lent and Easter Blocks from Almond Rod Toys
(You can also buy the craft sheets and make the Lent Blocks yourself!) 
Looking for the perfect shade… 
While they colored each ornament I read through the various bible verses provided for each image from the Gospel of Matthew. 
Occasionally we’d take a break from coloring and add in some extra stories and discussions, including the section on The Incarnation from My Path to Heaven and Lesson 55: The Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes from Chat’s With God’s Little Ones.  These are both such excellent resources and I highly recommend them for young children. 
The pretzel I had picked up at Trader Joe’s a couple days ago didn’t “multiply” but it did end up being plenty big enough for the two of them to share with three of their older siblings! 😉 

Before tucking them into bed, we also read through The End of the Fiery Sword and Into the Sea, Out of the Tomb. These are a couple of my favorite Catholic picture books.  
That’s where we left off, even though they were ready for me to read though all the rest of the books on that shelf… We will definitely be reading more today! 
From the Archives: 

The Shadow of His Wings: A Graphic Biography {Book Review & Giveaway}

One of the books our soon-to-be ten year old will be recieiving in his Easter basket this year is the powerful story of Fr. Gereon Goldmann’s WWII experiences which is now available as a graphic biography. (For older readers I highly recommend The Shadow of His Wings: The True Story of Fr. Gereon Goldmann, OFM.)  I was sent a review copy of this new version last year and asked my husband to preview it, and type up a short review to share with you all, but I never got around to posting it here on the blog… Here it is now:

A twenty-two year old German seminarian is drafted into Hitler’s SS; facing nazi hostility towards his religion, deadly military actions, and doubts from Church superiors, Gereon Goldmann nevertheless will pursue the Sacrament of Holy Orders – or die trying. This is the true story of Gereon Goldmann and the incredible account of his experiences in answering God’s calling. Drafted into the German army four years from ordination, Gereon crosses paths with Sister Solana May, the sacristan who taught him how to serve mass. With unwavering faith and zeal she is convinced God will answer the prayers of her convent that Gereon will become a priest within the year. Gereon embarks on a journey retold by Max Temescu that can only be described as miraculous.

 

Adapted from the extended original biography, Temescu illustrates and writes a condensed version that would be appealing to young readers, especially boys. Young readers, ages 10 and older can retrace Gereon’s experiences in this fast paced story adaptation that begins with a harrowing assault to conquer a hill. It then recounts Gereon’s journey in a graphic format, that we recognize in comic books.

The story itself is only captured in the first 61 pages and the remaining half of the book, like the original, includes an epilogue, photographs, and sketches from the author and illustrator. Parents may want to preview the book to screen for age appropriateness due to violence and graphic drawings of war experiences. The story reveals that with trust in God, nothing is impossible.

Ignatius Press has generously offered to send a copy of The Shadow of His Wings: A Graphic Biography to one of my visitors here at Shower of Roses. 

Please enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter box below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

by March 30th!

The Catholic Child and Saint Joseph

Let us allow ourselves to be “infected” by St. Joseph’s silence! We need it greatly, in a world that is often too noisy, that does not favor meditation or listening to the voice of God. 
– Pope Benedict XVI
This year the Solemnity of St. Joseph was transferred to Monday, March 20th. 
Between an extra long day at work (all morning and then again all evening until late, getting ready to meet with the CPA the next morning) and needing to spend most of the afternoon drinking lots of water and resting to stop contractions that were coming every 5-6 minutes for 4-5 hours, I wasn’t going to be able to pull together a St. Joseph’s Altar this year… 
However, everyone pitched in and it came together so beautifully! 
We had such a nice family dinner to celebrate St. Joseph. 

My dear Child: 
If you love Jesus and Mary you will also love St. Joseph.

Making Symbolic Rolls for this year’s Saint Joseph’s Altar
Wine & Fruit • Symbolic Fig Pastries • Traditional Breads in Symbolic Shapes
Mudica (Breadcrumbs) with Pasta • Fish • Italian Treats including Cream Puffs and Tiramisu
A special gift to celebrate one of his patron saints!
St. Joseph from Naturally CatholicIHS Candle from SaongJai

He was so close to Jesus and Mary on earth. He protected them. He labored for them; and died in their arms.
 

The kids all worked together to set up this year’s St. Joseph’s Altar using our pictures and statues of St. Joseph, along with candles, blocks from Almond Rod Toys, and Holy Cards from their collections! 

How great is his power with God! 
St. Teresa tells us that he will never fail us. 

I had picked out a bottle of Châteauneuf-du-Pape (I loved that the bottle is embossed with the Keys of St. Peter… Perfect for this dear Patron of the Universal Church!) at Trader Joe’s along with a few bottles of “Joseph” themed beer and a couple bottles of Sparkling White Chardonnay Grape Juice for the kids.

Go to St. Joseph always – 
when you need a favor, a grace, a help of any kind. 

He is the Patron of a Happy Death
Ask him often to be at your side when you come to die. 

St. Joseph from Catholic Folk Toys
Incorporating the traditional St. Joseph’s Altar foods of Figs and Grapes, we also included an Autoimmune Paleo Pizza that I could enjoy for dinner. It was so delicious! Here’s the recipe: Prosciutto & Fig Bistro Pizza

Here are some little prayers that you may say:

SAINT Joseph, friend of the Sacred Heart, Pray for us.

HELP us Joseph, in our earthly strife, 
ever to lead a pure and blameless life.

Ask St. Joseph to bless you. 
(The blessing of St. Joseph)
MAY the poverty of my sweet and suffering little Child be your riches; His sighs and His tears your consolation; the love of His Infant Heart, your earthly treasure and the sight of Him in heaven your joy and reward.
 
St. Joseph, patron of the dying, pray for us.

Excerpt from Jesus, Make Me Worthy – A reprint of the original can be found here

Celebrating the Solemnity of the Annunciation {Swedish Waffles and AIP Waffles for Lady Day}

The Annunciation from Rosary Flip Book
St. Patrick’s Day, St. Joseph’s Day, my husband’s birthday, and now the Annunciation… So much to celebrate lately and it’s been a nice little break right in the middle of this year’s lenten season. Tonight we are headed to the boys’ end-of-season team party and award ceremony for hockey, so we celebrated today’s feast with a special brunch. The main food associated with today’s feast is waffles! 

“This is Våffeldagen or Waffle Day in Sweden. One website said the name Vaffla, meaning waffle, originated from Var Fru, Our Lady, and that in time the two words became slurred and corrupted, first into Vaffer, then to Vaffla. The waffles are served with whipped cream and lingonberries (or cloudberries)… ” You can read more in Jenn’s post on Lady Day Feasting over at Catholic Cuisine. 
A couple years ago we made these delicious Organic 6-Grain Waffles using a Belgian Waffle Maker. I posted the recipe over at Catholic Cuisine yesterday. This morning we made the thinner Swedish style waffles, using our heart shaped waffle maker, topping them with marionberries once again! I wish we would have had some whipped cream to go along with them… Next year!

Lady Day Swedish Waffles

Ingredients:

  • 3 1/2 oz butter
  • 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups plus 3 tablespoons milk
  • 2 eggs

Directions:

In a bowl or blender (I used my Vitamix) whip together flour, baking powder and salt with half of the milk until you have an even batter. Pour in the rest of the milk, eggs and the melted butter, whip until thoroughly mixed.

Heat the waffle iron and brush with butter. Pour in 6 tablespoons of batter and bake until golden brown. Makes 8 waffles. Top with berries. (Lingonberries are traditional in Sweden. We used Marionberries in honor of Our Lady!) 

♥    ♥    ♥    ♥    ♥    ♥    ♥

After baking waffles for everyone else, I was really craving a waffle too… I decided to try to adapt an AIP Belgian waffle recipe to use with our waffle maker and the Cassava Flour I recently purchased. It turned out great! I’ll definitely be making these again.

Autoimmune Protocol Waffles for the Annunciation
{gluten-free, grain-free, sugar-free, egg-free, dairy free, nut-free, seed-free}
Vegan, Paleo-friendly, AIP-friendly, and still delicious

Ingredients:

Directions:

In a large bowl, combine all of the dry ingredients and mix well.

Place all the wet ingredients in blender (I used my Vitamix) and blend until well combined. Add dry ingredients and blend again until well combined. The batter will be thicker than pancake batter but should still be pourable. You may need to add a little additional water or coconut milk.

Lightly brush waffle iron with coconut oil. Add about 1/3-1/2 cup of batter to your pre-heated waffle iron and cook until done. I use this waffle iron, preheated and very hot, with setting number 4.

The recipe yields 5-6 Swedish style waffles, using approximately 1/3-1/2 cup of batter for each waffle.  Be sure to cook the waffles long enough or they can turn out gummy.

Top with marionberries. Next time I’ll make some Coconut Whip too! Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

O God, who didst will that Thy Word take flesh in the womb of the blessed Virgin Mary at the message of the angel: grant us, we pray, to be aided before Thee by her intercession, whom we believe to be truly the Mother of God.  – The Holyday Book by Father Francis X. Weiser

Celebrating the Feast of Saint Patrick

From Instagram on St. Patrick’s Day 2017: I haven’t spent much time in the kitchen this St. Patrick’s Day, but the kids did wake up to some new picture books and yummy treats! ☘👊🏻
#whathappenedtostpatricksfinger #fistpumpinsaint #seescandies #happystpatricksday
Lorica of St. Patrick
I bind unto myself today
The strong name of the Trinity,
By invocation of the same, 
The Three in One and One in Three. 
I bind this day to me for ever,
By power of faith, Christ’s Incarnation;
His baptism in the Jordan River;
His death on cross for my salvation;
His bursting from the spicèd tomb;
His riding up the heavenly way;
His coming at the day of doom;
I bind unto myself today. 
May you have: A world of wishes at your command. God and His angels close to hand. Friends and family their love impart, and Irish blessings in your heart! 💚☘
I bind unto myself the power
Of the great love of the Cherubim;
The sweet ‘Well done’ in judgment hour;
The service of the Seraphim,
Confessors’ faith, Apostles’ word,
The Patriarchs’ prayers, the Prophets’ scrolls,
All good deeds done unto the Lord,
And purity of virgin souls. 
I bind unto myself today
The virtues of the starlit heaven,
The glorious sun’s life-giving ray,
The whiteness of the moon at even,
The flashing of the lightning free,
The whirling wind’s tempestuous shocks, 
The stable earth, the deep salt sea,
Around the old eternal rocks.

Download my printable images to create our St. Patrick Gold Coins over at Dropbox: Regular Size and Small Size.
(Pictured in the archives here and over at Catholic Cuisine here.)

I bind unto myself today
The power of God to hold and lead,
His eye to watch, His might to stay,
His ear to hearken to my need.
The wisdom of my God to teach,
His hand to guide, his shield to ward,
The word of God to give me speech,
His heavenly host to be my guard. 

Photo Credit: Twinkle Toes (who is still recovering from a bad case of poison oak)
“What do you get when you cross poison oak with a four-leaf clover? A rash of good luck. 🍀
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!”

Against the demon snares of sin,
The vice that gives temptation force,
The natural lusts that war within,
The hostile men that mar my course;
Or few or many, far or nigh,
In every place and in all hours
Against their fierce hostility,
I bind to me these holy powers. 
Photo Credit: Captain (St. Patrick is one of his patron saints)
“Thanks Dad and Mom for the Saint Patrick day treats.😋”

Against all Satan’s spells and wiles,
Against false words of heresy,
Against the knowledge that defiles,
Against the heart’s idolatry,
Against the wizard’s evil craft,
Against the death-wound and the burning
The choking wave and the poisoned shaft,
Protect me, Christ, till thy returning. 

St. Patrick Handmade Saint from Naturally Catholic • Saint Patrick Tee from Totally Catholic Tees
The boys requested Irish Beef and Guinness Stew and Traditional Irish Soda Bread with Kerrygold Irish Butter for this year’s celebration ☘ I served it a day late since St. Patrick’s feast fell on a Lenten Friday this year, plus they were gone all of St. Patrick’s Day for their first golf tournament of the season!
Christ be with me, Christ within me,
Christ behind me, Christ before me,
Christ beside me, Christ to win me,
Christ to comfort and restore me,
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ in quiet, Christ in danger,
Christ in hearts of all that love me,
Christ in mouth of friend and stranger. 
Our kids decided that our annual Shamrock Cinnamon Rolls (also pictured here) were too much of a “dessert” (which they choose to give up this lent – the older kids saved the St. Patrick’s Day candies I gave them too) so I put them back in the fridge on Friday and made them for our Sunday brunch instead! ☘

I bind unto myself the name,
The strong name of the Trinity;
By invocation of the same.
The Three in One, and One in Three,
Of whom all nature hath creation,
Eternal Father, Spirit, Word:
Praise to the Lord of my salvation,
salvation is of Christ the Lord.

St. Patrick, ora pro nobis! 

Baskets of Books for Easter {and a Giveaway!}

Easter is just one month from today and I’ve been trying to round up gifts to fill our children’s Easter Baskets! (Easter Sunday falls on April 16th this year which also happens to be my parent’s 40th Wedding Anniversary as well as Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s 90th birthday!) 

As I have shared before, I’m always collecting books to give our children on their birthdays, Easter, and Christmas. Some of the books I have purchased from Amazon, Sacred Heart Books and Gifts (Free shipping for orders over $40 with coupon code JMJ650, expires March 25th), Catholic Child, or St. Augustine Academy Press, some have been purchased on sale at local bookstores, and some have been given to me as review copies from the authors or publishers.

In addition to new books, I usually include something that represents each child’s patron saint (or something representing one of their personal favorite saints), art and/or writing supplies, a small toy or two (I love using LEGO sets as filler instead of Easter grass!), and some symbolic Easter candy (I’ve made my own in the past, including these Easter Symbol Chocolate Coins, or purchased it at the store) in the Easter Baskets. I also usually put together a “Family Easter Basket“, incorporating the various Easter symbols (you can find tons of gift ideas based on Easter Symbols here).

Below you will find the list of books we’ve picked out this year for each of our children. Be sure to scroll all the way to the bottom for a chance to win a book from a basket of books I have to share with all my dear visitors here at Shower of Roses!

Note: Before I share the book list, I do want to remind you all that I haven’t read most of these books yet. I made my decisions based on recommendations, reviews, publishers, and the past work of some of the authors/illustrators.

.: Captain – Age 16 :.

Manual for Spiritual Warfare
A fierce war rages for your soul. Are you ready for battle? Like it or not, you are at war. You face a powerful enemy out to destroy you. You live on the battlefield, so you can’t escape the conflict. It’s a spiritual war with crucial consequences in your everyday life and its outcome will determine your eternal destiny. You must engage the Enemy. And as you fight, you need a Manual for Spiritual Warfare.

This guide for spiritual warriors will help you recognize, resist, and overcome the Devil’s attacks. St. Paul urges us to “fight the good fight of the faith” (1 Tim 6:12). Take this Manual for Spiritual Warfare with you into battle.

Charcoal Grey, Premium UltraSoft, rounded corners, embossed cover, silver foil, black ribbons, silver edges, and red accented interior.  {We had the boys’ names added to the front covers.}

A Man Cleansed by God: A Novel Based on the Life of Saint Patrick

The story of St. Patrick’s life is a dynamic tale of high drama and intense spiritual force. A generation ago, the American Catholic novelist John Edward Beahn retold that story as a biographical novel based on The Confession, Patrick’s famous autobiographical work. A Man Cleansed by God: A Novel on St. Patrick’s Confession was published in 1959, a vivid narrative with intriguing speculations about the details of Patrick s experience that have been lost to history.


A Shepherd in Combat Boots: Chaplain Emil Kapaun of the 1st Cavalry Division  
A well-documented biography of an extraordinary person, Emil Kapun, who was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, Medal of Honor, and named “Servant of God” by the Vatican. Try to escape, the American soldiers warned Catholic Chaplain Emil Kapaun. However, he refused to leave his wounded comrades and became a POW. His decision marked a turning point in the inspiring life of this young priest. Kapaun’s faith and courage on the battlefield and in prison set an example for hundreds of young American captives. When they were starving, he stole food for them. If the men needed encouragement, he defied prison rules and prayed with them. When the communist guards mocked his faith in God, the chaplain publicly defended his beliefs. When Kapaun became sick, the communist denied him medicine and watched him die in their vermin-infested “hospital.” However, they could not extinguish the memories of how he served other prisoners.

Scripture Illuminated

An illuminated manuscript is a text supplemented with decorations-such as initials, borders, and miniature illustrations. They naturally lend themselves to religious texts, and in Scripture Illuminated you have the opportunity to try your hand at coloring some illuminated texts that depict and supplement stories from the Bible and Scripture verses.
Coloring, while listening to audio books, is still one of Captain’s favorite ways to relax. 

.: Ranger – Age 15 :.

Manual for Spiritual Warfare
A fierce war rages for your soul. Are you ready for battle? Like it or not, you are at war. You face a powerful enemy out to destroy you. You live on the battlefield, so you can’t escape the conflict. It’s a spiritual war with crucial consequences in your everyday life and its outcome will determine your eternal destiny. You must engage the Enemy. And as you fight, you need a Manual for Spiritual Warfare.

This guide for spiritual warriors will help you recognize, resist, and overcome the Devil’s attacks. St. Paul urges us to “fight the good fight of the faith” (1 Tim 6:12). Take this Manual for Spiritual Warfare with you into battle.

Charcoal Grey, Premium UltraSoft, rounded corners, embossed cover, silver foil, black ribbons, silver edges, and red accented interior.


A Man Born Again: A Novel Basked on the Life of Saint Thomas More
Status and wealth, power and fame: St. Thomas More had them all. As a wise and popular statesman, internationally recognized scholar, and Lord Chancellor of England, More was perhaps the most highly respected Englishman of his day until his conscience required that he lay down his life for his Catholic faith.


Republished by TAN. First published in 1954. 

Nice Going, Red: The Story of a Boy who “Couldn’t Take It”
(also available directly from St. Augustine Academy Press)
Frank “Red” Devlin is the best fighter in town–trouble is, he’s always getting into scraps over something or other. He just can’t stand being teased. He even bristles when his friend, Lieutenant Carroll, spots him smoking and playing craps with Clyde White and Bert Stone, and takes him to task for it. Red wants to be good, honest, but events just always seem to conspire against him. Will he learn to hold his own in the face of peer pressure, or will he give in and go along, even when he knows it’s wrong?

From the author of “Brass Knuckles” and “Midget” comes this third novel, “Nice Going, Red,” a coming-of-age drama about a boy who has what it takes to make a great young man…but when it comes to his fear of looking foolish, he always seems to give in and take the easy road.


Windows Into Christ: A Coloring Book for Prayer and Meditation

Chartres Cathedral has been a holy pilgrimage destination for centuries, and now colorists of all ages can become pilgrims as well in a creative and contemplative way through Windows into Christ: A Coloring Book for Prayer and Meditation, featuring 50 of the cathedrals 176 renowned stained-glass windows.

.: Twinkle Toes – Age 13 :.

Prayers and Heavenly Promises
Now in Premium UltraSoft! This unique book of powerful prayers and devotions, compiled by Joan Carroll Cruz, includes wonderful promises made by Our Lord or Our Lady, most of which were revealed to famous Saints, including: St. Faustina, St. Gertrude, and St. Catherine Laboure. Author Joan Carroll Cruz has carefully selected and compiled devotions to Our Lady, the Infant Jesus, Precious Blood, Sacred Heart, Divine Mercy, St. Michael, and more in one place so that your daily prayer can be more powerful and more fruitful than ever before. The promises set forth in this book show that God is eager to grant us many favors–if we will just pray!

Brigid and the Butter
Brigid wants to feed the hungry, but she is often hungry herself. When a beggar woman asks for the only food Brigid has – a dish of butter – she learns how to open her heart in generosity and love. This story of the first miracle of St. Brigid of Ireland will encourage children ages 5 to 8 to learn about this generous saint!

Even though this is a picture book written for children ages 5 to 8, St. Brigid is one of TT’s favorite saints and I know she will love adding this sweet picture book to her collection and reading it to her younger siblings. 


The Shadow of the Bear: A Fairy Tale Retold
When Bear, a mysterious young man, lands on Blanche and Rose Brier’s doorstep in New York City, the two sisters have conflicting opinions on whether or not he is dangerous. Even as Blanche learns to trust him, her fears that Bear’s friendship threatens their family prove terrifyingly true. A modern retelling of the classic Brothers Grimm fairytale.


I read many of Regina Doman’s books from her fairy tales retold series, years ago and have been hanging on to them to share with our children when they were “older”… I think our 13 year old will enjoy this story!

Our Lady’s Garden: A Coloring Book for Prayer and Meditation
Step away from the screen-from your television, your computer, your smartphone, your tablet-and take some time for creative mindfulness with a coloring book that will help slow your busy brain. Adults and young people alike will appreciate the opportunity to take time to meditate and pray, to share in the creativity of beloved Brazilian illustrator Veruscha Guerra, and to discover a new way of being with Our Lady in this very special garden.

.: Chiquita – Age 11 :.

The Costly Cookie Chronicles

Eleven-year old Clare wants to be a saint for Jesus, but there are a few things standing in her way: everything she says, does, and thinks. Well… not exactly, but almost. Clare finds surrendering her will to Jesus unbelievably hard, until a visiting priest shares an amazing secret during her church’s parish mission. In this second book by Julie Kelly, Clare discovers the tender love of Mary, the transforming power of meditating on the life of Jesus through the holy rosary, and the joy of contemplating with Mary the face of Christ. And in her delightfully candid way, Clare invites readers to walk the narrow road with her to Jesus through Mary.


Chiquita really enjoyed reading author Julie Kelly’s first book, Clare’s Costly Cookies a couple years ago. I think she will enjoy this second book as well. 


The Chestertons and the Golden Key


Summer vacation turns into an adventure for the three Nicholl sisters when Mr. Gilbert Chesterton and his wife come to town. Eleven-year-old Clare hopes to write a detective story. Eight-year-old Cece wants to be a champion roller-skater. And ten-year-old Joan just wants to learn how to play the locked piano in the family living room. But as they befriend the Chestertons, skating accidents, surprising friendships, puppet shows, and mystery solving ensue!


Saint Clare of Assisi: Runaway Rich Girl


St. Clare had everything a young girl could want: wealth, a loving family, and her faith. Clares father wanted her to marry a handsome young man, the son of a nobleman. She wanted to please her family, but her heart called her to a life of poverty, following St. Francis and eventually forming the Poor Clares! This vibrantly illustrated Shoujo-Manga style graphic novel tells her amazing story for children ages 9 to 12.


32 Days: A Story of Faith and Courage

How are the lives of a famous American bishop, Fulton J. Sheen, and an unknown eleven year old Chinese peasant girl intertwined? Discover why the child’s holiness and courage moved the famous TV and radio personality of the 1950’s to promote her religious devotion to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament throughout the world. An historical novel, the author puts flesh and bones on a real child and her love for Jesus. A very inspirational story that touches the heart and shows readers that even a child can be a hero.




.: Snuggles – Age 9 :.

A Young Catholic’s Daily Missal

The Young Catholic’s Daily Missal is designed to open up the spiritual treasures of the Traditional Mass for young Catholics from the time of their First Communion up through their early teen years. This missal conforms to the rubrics and norms of the 1962 Missale Romanum and includes the full Ordinary of the Mass; the Masses of the Sundays and Holidays in English with paraphrases of the Propers. For all the other days of the year there are explanations, printed in smaller type, of the Introit, Epistle and Gospel. These, along with the Common of Saints in bigger type, make this missal ideal for daily use. Finally, this missal contains morning and evening prayers; instructions on the meaning of the Mass; and an array of traditional devotions. An indispensable guide to prepare and teach young Catholic’s to use the full Daily Missal. Two ribbons, Flexible cover with Gold Foil Stamping. Illustrated throughout.

Will Wilder #2: The Lost Staff of Wonders 
Twelve-year-old Will Wilder is back to protect the town of Perilous Falls from another ancient evil—the fearsome demon, Amon. When the storied Staff of Moses—responsible for summoning the plagues of ancient Egypt—vanishes from the museum in Perilous Falls, Will Wilder is suspect number one. Desperate to prove his innocence and stop the thief from unleashing terrors upon the town of Perilous Falls, Will must use his supernatural gift to locate the beast—but it’s nowhere to be found. As the river runs with blood, sharp-toothed frogs surround his home, and clouds of swarming gnats choke the streets, Will must rely on his supernatural ability, everything he learned from his training, and help from his friends, siblings, and Great-Aunt Lucille to find the missing staff and unmask the hidden evil before time runs out for all of them.


I purchased the first book in the series from Sacred Heart Books and Gifts at the conference last summer for one of his older brothers and he just finished reading it too. I think he’s going to be excited to discover book #2 in his Easter Basket this year! 

The Shadow of His Wings: A Graphic Biography of Fr. Gereon Goldmann

Here is the astonishing true story of the harrowing experiences of a young German seminarian drafted into Hitler’s dreaded SS at the onset of World War II. Without betraying his Christian ideals, against all odds, and in the face of Evil, Gereon Goldmann was able to complete his priestly training, be ordained, and secretly minister to German Catholic soldiers and innocent civilian victims caught up in the horrors of war. How it all came to pass will astound you. 
Father Goldmann tells of his own incredible experiences of the trials of war, his many escapes from almost certain death, and the diabolical persecution that he and his fellow Catholic soldiers encountered on account of their faith. What emerges is an extraordinary witness to the workings of Divine Providence and the undying power of love, prayer, faith, and sacrifice.


One of my personal favorite books, which my older boys have loved as well, is The Shadow of His Wings: The True Story of Fr. Gereon Goldmann, OFM. I’m looking forward to introducing our nine year old to this inspiring story with this new graphic biography. 

Wind In the Willows
For more than a century, The Wind in the Willows and its endearing protagonists–Mole, Mr. Toad, Badger, and Ratty–have enchanted children of all ages. Whether the four friends are setting forth on an exciting adventure, engaging in a comic caper, or simply relaxing by the River Thames, their stories are among the most charming in all English literature. This keepsake edition of Kenneth Grahame’s beloved novel features gorgeous art throughout, making it a must-have for every child’s library.

Another beautiful book illustrated by Robert Ingpen!

.: Rose – Age 7 :.

Flowers for Jesus: A Story of Thérèse of Lisieux as a Young Girl (Hardcover edition also available)
Little Thérèse Martin could be a very stubborn young girl. All too often, if someone wanted her to say “yes,” she wanted to say “no”! But then, as she is preparing for her First Communion, Thérèse discovers a way to turn her everyday trials and tribulations into something beautiful for Jesus. Join Thérèse (and her family) as she learns to “gather roses from amid thorns.” With simple storytelling and vibrant watercolors, Flowers for Jesus introduces children to a saint they can relate to: the young Thérèse of Lisieux, before she became known the world over as a spiritual master…

Mary and the Little Shepherds of Fatima
Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the apparitions of Fatima with this illustrated true story designed for children ages 5 to 8. Hear about the courage and resilience of Francisco, Jacinta, and Lucinda when everyone, including their parents, doubted the existence of the heavenly visions. See how their unwavering faith and confidence helped thousands witness Our Lady’s Miracle of the Sun!

In addition to this new release from Pauline Books, we’ll be adding to our collection for the upcoming 100th anniversary of the apparitions of Fatima, I also have a couple OOP books I purchased over the past year stashed in my closet to pull out in May! 




Rapunzel: Based on the Original Story by the Brothers Grimm
Beautiful Rapunzel is locked away in a tall, tall tower, visited only by the little creatures of the forest and the witch who has imprisoned her. Until one day a handsome prince, passing by on his horse, is transfixed by the magical sound of Rapunzel singing to her animals friends and knows he must reach her… Can true love transform Rapunzel’s life forever?

From iridescent blue swallowtails and brilliant orange monarchs to the worlds tiniest butterfly (Western Pygmy Blue) and the largest (Queen Alexandra’s Birdwing), an incredible variety of butterflies are celebrated here in all of their beauty and wonder.
I’ve started collecting the whole series which includes: An Egg is Quiet, A Seed Is Sleepy,  A Nest Is Noisy, A Rock Is Lively, and A Beetle Is Shy

.: Bud – Age 5 :.

Simon of Cyrene and the Legend of the Easter Egg


Brand new release from Pauline Books & Media! I’m still waiting for this one to arrive and looking forward to seeing it in person.  

On his way to market to sell eggs, Simon the Cyrene is stopped by Roman soldiers and ordered to help Jesus carry his cross to Calvary. Three days later, Simon rejoices when he sees that not only has Jesus risen from the dead but his eggs have been transformed into a colorful new gift from Jesusthe first Easter eggs! 


For children ages 4 to 7.


Nikola and the Monk

On the mountain lives an old monk, working out his salvation in prayer and seclusion. He is just the one to show Nikola the holiness in each moment.


I love the books written by Dessi Jackson, especially the gorgeous illustrations by Kimberlee’s talented daughter, Lydia Grace. 
We already have and enjoy Roses in the Snow: A Tale of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary and Saint Felix and the Spider. I’m really excited to read Nikola and the Monk to our little ones and add it to our collection. 


Adventures in Brambly Hedge
Step into the miniature world of Brambly Hedge in this exquisite slipcase containing four classic picture books! The mice of Brambly Hedge have many adventures but they always have time for fun too. All through the year, they mark the seasons with feasts and festivities and, of course, the mice never miss an opportunity to meet and celebrate. This beautifully designed slipcase contains four classic stories following their adventures throughout the year.



Wonders of Nature

“Isn’t it a wonder that out in the pond, smooth wiggly tadpoles lose their tails and grow legs, and turn into frogs? And that fuzzy caterpillars weave silken cocoons around themselves and go to sleep, then wake up as pretty moths or butterflies?”

It’s a rare nonfiction book that’s also a simple, beautiful poem. In this gorgeous Little Golden Book from 1957, Eloise Wilkin’s stunning and realistic artwork is accompanied by gentle text that brings an awe of nature to the youngest readers.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

For YOU:

In addition to all the wonderful new books our children will receive this Easter, I have over $200 worth of books to give away to my visitors here at Shower of Roses! Thank you to Sacred Heart Books and Gifts, Pauline Books & Media, Peanut Butter and Grace, Catholic Child, and illustrator Kellie Ryan for sponsoring these prizes!

There will be one winner for each of the following 7 prizes:

Prize #1: Will Wilder: The Relic of Perilous FallsWill Wilder, #2: The Lost Staff of Wonders and Page-A-Day Children’s Bible sponsored by Sacred Heart Books and Gifts (combined value $55.93)

  



Prize #2: Set of Three Coloring Books: Scriptures Illuminated, Windows into Christ, and Our Lady’s Garden 
sponsored by Pauline Books & Media (combined value $47.85)

  

Prize #3: Little Flower Book Bundle: The Little Flower, Little Lessons from St. Therese of Lisieux, and Flowers for Jesus 

sponsored by Peanut Butter & Grace (combined value $33.97)

  

Prize #4: Molly McBride and the Purple Habit and Molly McBride and the Plaid Jumper sponsored by Peanut Butter & Grace (combined value $24.99)

 

Prize #5: Saint Thomas Aquinas and The Caterpillar That Came to Church sponsored by Catholic Child (combined value $22.90)

Prize #6: Simon of Cyrene and the Legend of the Easter Egg
sponsored by Pauline Books & Media (value $12.95)

    

sponsored by Kellie Ryan, Illustrator  (value $11.95)
Please enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter box below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Another Basket of Books for Lent

I have had a few requests for a peek inside that basket of lenten books for the older children that I mentioned the other day. I had hoped to put a post together a list of all our books but I just haven’t had the time so here is what’s in this year’s basket along with the links to each book:

Our older children also have their own bibles (they love this one, see better pictures here, and this oneas well as their own copies of The Imitation of Christ (I love this version with the zippered cover).

In addition to Characters of the Passion: Lessons on Faith and Trust, I am reading through the chapter for March on Mortification from A Year with the Saints: A Virtue for Every Month of the Year. My husband has been reading a chapter from The Little Catechism of The Cure of Ars aloud during dinner each night.

I’ve also pulled out our  Catechism in Pictures, to review The Apostles Creed, and reading through The Holy Gospels of St. Luke and St. John from Sacred Art Series (pictured at the top of this post). Both are filled with gorgeous sacred artwork.

I need to wrap this up and head out the door… Lots of running around this afternoon. 
If you have a minute I would love to hear what you are reading this Lent! 

Our Family

Sean & Jessica, Captain-24, Ranger-23, Twinkle Toes-21, Chiquita-20, Snuggles-17, Rose-15, Bud-13, Grace-7 and Joy-5 (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.

My Other Blog: Catholic Cuisine

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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.


Our Family

Sean & Jessica, Captain-24, Ranger-23, Twinkle Toes-21, Chiquita-20, Snuggles-17, Rose-15, Bud-13, Grace-7 and Joy-5 (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.

My Other Blog: Catholic Cuisine

Please Visit My Sponsors…

This Week's Popular Posts

Shower of Roses Affiliate Links

All About Spelling
All About Reading
All About Reading Giveaways
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Our Advent & Christmas Books

Shower of Roses Gift Guides

Looking for Something?

looking-back

  • 2025 (2)
  • 2024 (41)
  • 2023 (30)
  • 2022 (48)
  • 2021 (48)
  • 2020 (57)
  • 2019 (61)
  • 2018 (90)
  • 2017 (128)
  • 2016 (148)
  • 2015 (172)
  • 2014 (227)
  • 2013 (238)
  • 2012 (308)
  • 2011 (297)
  • 2010 (313)
  • 2009 (486)
  • 2008 (564)
  • 2007 (148)

Posts About:

Shower of Roses Alphabet of Saints

A Papal Unit Study & Lap Book

Shower of Roses Easter Gift Guides



All Saints Party Printables

All original photographs and written material are ©2007-2025 Shower of Roses. I'd love for you to link back to me, but please do not copy or take content from this blog without permission. Click here for my Copyright Terms & Conditions. Thank you for visiting!