Baskets of Books for Easter {and a Giveaway!}
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 – this year it will include some beautiful toys from Naturally Catholic!), art and/or writing supplies (a couple of the girls will be getting these water colours), a small toy or two (I love using LEGO sets as filler instead of Easter grass, and some of the Creator sets are on sale right now!), and some symbolic Easter candy (I’ve made my own in the past or purchased it at the store. I have a new idea to share for this year and will try and post it soon!) in the Easter Baskets. I also usually put together a “Family Easter Basket“, incorporating the various Easter symbols.
Below you will find the list of books we’ve picked out 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.
El Cid, God s Own Champion is an inspiring biography of the extraordinary Catholic knight chosen by God to save his nation from Islamic aggression. Known by the honorary title of El Cid, Rodrigo Diaz is a legendary hero who is directly relevant to modern times. Exiled by his king, insulted and maligned by those who should have supported him, he selflessly fought against seemingly insurmountable odds to save Christian Spain. Commanding the respect even of his enemies, upon his death a Muslim historian acclaimed him, a miracle among the great miracles of the Almighty. The Cid is an example of what can be achieved through devotion to duty, prayer, and trust in God.
The greatest Spanish monarch, King of Castile and Leon, St. Fernando III was born in the year 1199 – exactly 100 years after the death of his illustrious ancestor, El Cid. In him would be combined the soul of a knight dedicated entirely to God, the irresistible power of the Cid, and due to his royal heritage, the authority to marshal the might of an entire kingdom against the enemies of Christ. Personally leading his armies into battle, he took back more territory from Islam than any other king in history. First cousin of St. Louis IX of France, he died a saintly death in the year 1252. His incorrupt body can still be seen in the Cathedral of Seville, and his feastday, May 30th, is a holy day of obligation in Spain.
Saint Maximillian Kolbe: Knight of the Immaculata
The famous martyr of Auschwitz (1941) who took the place of a condemned man. Before WW II, he worked mightily to conquer the world for Christ through Mary, desiring to save all souls in the world till the End of Time! His accomplishments are incredible! Proof positive the Faith produces heroes and martyrs even in our own day!
For generations, J.R.R. Tolkien’s words have brought to thrilling life a world of hobbits, magic, and historic myth, woken from its foggy slumber within our minds. Here, he tells the tales is his own voice. Of historic note, these selections from The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings are based on a tape recording Tolkien made in 1952, which inspired him to continue his own quest to see his vision in print. Also included is a never-published poem, “The Mirror of Galadriel,” originally intended for inclusion in the trilogy, yet edited out. And, finally, Tolkien’s son, Christopher, reads selections from his father’s The Silmarillion, the epic foundation upon which rests the whole of his work.
I’m still looking for a couple more books for Captain. The boys already have the complete collection of Ranger’s Apprentice and Brotherband Chronicles. I pre-ordered the next in the series, but it won’t be released until June…
Easily index your Bible with pre-cut, self-adhesive tabs! Bible Tabs are essential tools to assist you as you embark on The Great Adventure and discover the big picture of the biblical narrative. These tabs are color-coded to match The Great Adventure Bible Timeline s 12 periods of salvation history, and make it easy to find the book of the Bible you re looking for. You ll always know where you are in the story. The Bible Tabs Help you quickly locate each Book of the Bible. Show you the Narrative thread of salvation history Help you easily memorize the timeline Period colors The pack includes a color coordinated tab for each of the 73 books of the Bible plus 12 addition tabs, along with easy instructions for application. You just peel, position and apply.
(also available directly from St. Augustine Academy Press)
Speed Austin never meant to get in trouble, but it seems to follow him wherever he goes. Yet, even though he’s part of the playground gang of toughs, the boys from St. Leo’s are desperate for a shortstop to take the place of Bud Philips-and Speed is the best candidate they can find. Speed jumps at the chance to get away from the fast life, but the gang wants him back, and they’re out to show him what happens to members that try to “quit.” Will Jack and the other Catholic school boys manage to help save him, or is it too late? Written in 1930 by a Chicago Priest who served as chaplain at the County Jail and knew the difficulties faced by boys growing up in the big city, this thrilling story is newly illustrated by Erin Bartholomew.
Martin the Warrior: A Novel of Redwall
The Redwall series captured the hearts of readers and critics alike with its exhilarating tales of the wondrous creatures of Redwall. Martin the Warrior continues the saga with the long-awaited history of Martin, Redwall’s most glorious hero, who rises from slavery to become the greatest warrior the land would ever know.
The first book in C. S. Lewis’s acclaimed Space Trilogy, which continues with Perelandra and That Hideous Strength, Out of the Silent Planet begins the adventures of the remarkable Dr. Ransom. Here, that estimable man is abducted by a megalomaniacal physicist and his accomplice and taken via spaceship to the red planet of Malacandra. The two men are in need of a human sacrifice, and Dr. Ransom would seem to fit the bill. Once on the planet, however, Ransom eludes his captors, risking his life and his chances of returning to Earth, becoming a stranger in a land that is enchanting in its difference from Earth and instructive in its similarity. First published in 1943, Out of the Silent Planet remains a mysterious and suspenseful tour de force.
The second book in C. S. Lewis’s acclaimed Space Trilogy, which also includes Out of the Silent Planet and That Hideous Strength, Perelandra continues the adventures of the extraordinary Dr. Ransom. Pitted against the most destructive of human weaknesses, temptation, the great man must battle evil on a new planet — Perelandra — when it is invaded by a dark force. Will Perelandra succumb to this malevolent being, who strives to create a new world order and who must destroy an old and beautiful civilization to do so? Or will it throw off the yoke of corruption and achieve a spiritual perfection as yet unknown to man? The outcome of Dr. Ransom’s mighty struggle alone will determine the fate of this peace-loving planet.
The final book in C. S. Lewis’s acclaimed Space Trilogy, which includes Out of the Silent Planet and Perelandra, That Hideous Strength concludes the adventures of the matchless Dr. Ransom. The dark forces that were repulsed in Out of the Silent Planet and Perelandra are massed for an assault on the planet Earth itself. Word is on the wind that the mighty wizard Merlin has come back to the land of the living after many centuries, holding the key to ultimate power for that force which can find him and bend him to its will. A sinister technocratic organization is gaining power throughout Europe with a plan to “recondition” society, and it is up to Ransom and his friends to squelch this threat by applying age-old wisdom to a new universe dominated by science. The two groups struggle to a climactic resolution that brings the Space Trilogy to a magnificent, crashing close.
An elegant, beautifully crafted compact edition of the popular Ignatius Bible, RSV Catholic version. At only 4.5 x 6.5 , it s easy to pack when on the move, yet features readable type, along with other special features including: Duradera Burgundy Zipper, Miraculous medal on zipper pull, Gold-gilded pages, Presentation section, “Dei Verbum” document, Special prayers and devotions, Beautiful gift box, Bonded leather covers, Handsome, top-quality compact edition of very popular RSV Catholic Bible, also known as The Ignatius Bible. The many special features make this Bible a great gift. Compact size permits easy personal reading, at home or on the go.
(with zippered cover)
After the Bible, The Imitation of Christ by Thomas a’ Kempis is the favorite book of Catholics throughout the world and has been the spiritual guide of the saints since it first appeared in 1418. This new, revised edition features a gold-stamped, bonded leather case with zipper, gilded pages and classic Dore images from the Life of Christ, making it a beautiful and durable devotional companion. Now you will never be without the book that St. Therese of Lisieux loved and knew by heart.
(along with a copy of the St. Therese the Little Flower Daily Journal)
Millions love St. Therese of Lisieux, not only for her wisdom, but for her unwavering passion to serve God in life and in death. Listen with your heart as this most popular of saints speaks with simple charm about her life. These 120 readings excerpted from the writings of St. Therese of Lisieux will help you get to know first hand the pure, simple girl whom Pope Pius X called “the greatest saint of modern times.”
(also available directly from St. Augustine Academy Press)
In Yourself and Your House Wonderful, you will find a refreshingly old-fashioned view of the care and keeping of you! Charming and quaint, it is suitable for reading with young children as well as for tweens who need sound advice as they journey toward adulthood. It may seem strange to read a book about health written over a century ago, especially when there are so many excellent science books for children today. But there’s so much more to understanding our bodies than just drawings and diagrams and digestion! Our bodies are the home for our souls here on earth, and they need special care beyond just bathing and brushing and keeping warm! All throughout your life you will be making choices: some as simple as what to eat or to wear; some as difficult as what to do with your life. Managing your “house” well means making wise choices.
On the anniversary of the plane crash that took the life of her beloved grandmother and threw her own mother into a deep depression, 16-year-old Katelyn Marie Roberts discovers a single bead from her grandmother’s rosary-a rosary lost in the crash. A chance encounter with a stranger, who tells Katelyn that a similar bead saved her friend’s life, launches Katelyn and her family on a quest to find the other missing beads. Their mysterious journey, filled with glimmers of hope, mystical encounters and unexplained graces takes them further into the unknown. Katelyn turns to the Rosary for answers and soon finds that family, prayer and the help of others may be the key to restoring what was lost.
Ronni is a 21st-century American teenager who has lost her faith following the deaths of her brother and father. They died saving the life of someone she does not deem worthy, and she doubts the concept of sacrifice. “Nothing’s worth dying for,” she declares, even Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross. When Ronni takes ill, she awakens in 1st-century Jerusalem, two days before the crucifixion. Realizing that she knows what is going to happen to Jesus when no one else does, she goes about trying to stop the crucifixion. The questions are: Can she do it? Should she?
I’ve been curious about this book for a couple years now and recently won it in a giveaway from Catholic Child! It hasn’t arrived yet, but I think I’ll be adding it to our 12 year old’s basket this year.
This book is a collection of stories of the women saints and martyrs of the early Christian Church. Featuring saints venerated in both Orthodox and Catholic traditions, this book will introduce children to amazing role models of the faith. Showcasing women who were light in a dark time, these stories are filled with courage, beauty and ultimately, a faith in God that transformed the world. Each saint is featured with a stunning watercolor portrait, a short story from her life and a prayer suitable for young children.
When the Son of God came down from heaven to become a man like us, He made it possible for us to see Him, touch Him, and make pictures of Him-pictures which we call icons. This little book brings God and His saints vividly into children’s lives through icons, explaining in the simplest terms what each icon means and what the role of these holy pictures-and the holy stories and people they depict-can be in our lives. The colorful pages of Pictures of God are perfect for occupying little hands in church, for explaining the world of icons in the first years of Sunday school, and for read-aloud time with little ones at home.
(also available directly from Peanut Butter & Grace)
Little Lessons from St. Thérèse of Lisieux presents brief excerpts from Story of a Soul as a way of introducing those unfamiliar with Thérèse to some of the essential themes of her spirituality. The words of St. Thérèse are accompanied by the artwork of award-winning watercolorist Jeanine Crowe, a wonderful aid to prayerful meditation on the words and wisdom of St. Thérèse of Lisieux. Little Lessons from St. Thérèse of Lisieux includes twenty-one selections from the words of St. Thérèse, twenty artworks, and ten questions for reflection and discussion.
Saint Philomena: Daughter of Light
A Grecian princess vows her virginity to Christ. When Diocletian the Roman Emperor endeavors to win her hand and is rejected, he is enraged and throws her into prison. Philomena courageously endures the tortures he devises and is assisted by heaven. In the end, the virgin Philomena wins the glorious palm of martyrdom.
(along with thus pretty Watercolor Birds Journal!)
Just in time for spring, this is the second book in the Carter pop-up book series about the seasons. Each spread has a very brief verse and depicts common springtime flora and fauna. All things pictured are labeled (robins, water lilies, deer and fawns, cherry trees, etc.). The text is simple for very young readers to understand and enjoy.
With Butterflies, Robins, Dogwood Trees and more, this spring themed book will be a beautiful addition to this year’s Easter Baskets!
The Miracle of the Red Egg
At Pascha (Easter), Orthodox all over the world dye and bless red eggs. Here is the story of how this tradition started way back in apostolic times, with St. Mary Magdalene and a blessed miracle that dazzled the unbelieving Roman emperor with the reality and power of Christ’s Resurrection.
I love some of the beautiful picture books published by the Orthodox. The Miracle of the Red Egg is going to make another lovely addition to our collection of Lent and Easter Books.
I also ordered the Puffin in Bloom Collection before Christmas and thought I’d use them for the girls’ Easter Baskets, but decided to save them for Chiquita’s 11th birthday next month.
(also available from Holy Heroes)
For years, The Picture Bible has delighted young and old. Now updated with interesting new features, including “Did you know?” fact pages, time line, story listing, maps, and more, kids will love the great stories and action pictures of the newly revised Picture Bible. God’s Word will come alive for hours of family reading enjoyment.
Imagine riding across a dangerous river on the back of a friendly crocodile! Or making friends with a whole pile of snakes. Or going into hiding with the help of some spiders! These are not your everyday saint stories! God used both wild and tame animals to help saints when they needed it most. Here are just a few you’ll find in Holy Crocodile: St. Pachome and the friendly crocodile, St. Colman and the alarming mouse, St. Brigid and the amazing fox, St. Cuthbert and the lifesaving sea otters, and many more! Told in beautiful illustrations and charming narratives by mixed-media artist Caroline Cory, these stories will delight and inspire young and old alike.
Children’s Stories of Animals Who Encountered Saints . . . Told from the Animals’ Points of View! Three delightful stories for young Catholics, beautifully illustrated with black and white drawings. Includes Bonus Reproducible Coloring Book in the back! Stories in Volume One include: The Little Lamb’s Wish, The Hungry Gray Mule, and The Loyal Friend. Children will delight in these wonderful animal tales!
Audio Dramas of these stories are also available from Regina Martyrum Productions!
Ben Hur: A Race to Glory (DVD)
After a long and hard struggle to find his family after years of unjust imprisonment, Ben-Hur must race the boyhood friend who betrayed him to learn of their whereabouts. Only the healing grace of Christ can make Ben-Hur whole again.
We owned this on VHS for years and I’ve been slowly upgrading our collection to DVD!
(also available from Catholic Child!)
In this sixth volume of the Gospel Time Trekkers series, children ages 6-9 are taken on a journey that imaginatively retraces the events surrounding Jesus’s crucifixion and resurrection, revealing the ultimate meaning of giving up something for others.
I posted more pictures and details about the Gospel Time Trekkers series here.
What do Jonah and Jesus have in common?
More than you think!
In this delightfully illustrated children’s book, Maura Roan McKeegan tells the story of Jonah and Jesus. Both were given special missions by God. And both have something very important to teach about obedience to His plan. See biblical typology—the Old Testament people, symbols, and events that foreshadow the New Testament—come to life in Into the Sea, Out of the Tomb: Jonah and Jesus.
Recommended for ages 3 and up.
Our copy hasn’t arrived yet, but I am so excited about the brand new release of Into the Sea, out of the Tomb: Jonah and Jesus. We own the first book in the series and love it! (I posted some pictures here last May. It would also make an excellent Easter gift.)
This special Centenary Edition of everyone’s favorite book is truly a treasure! We have restored the original illustrations, including the beautiful frames surrounding the text on every page, and have carefully overseen each detail, down to the thicker paper that not only gives a similar feel as the older hardcover, but will ensure that this edition will make a lasting heirloom that we hope will be passed on to the next generation!
Special Centenary Edition, pre-ordered and scheduled to arrive by Easter! This is such a beautiful story. We already own other editions including a couple audio dramas.
(available directly from Peanut Butter & Grace)
Young Thérèse Martin loved Jesus so much, she wanted to do something great for him. But she is too little to do big things for Jesus…or is she? The Little Flower: A Parable of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux is a wonderful way to introduce children to the spirituality of St. Thérèse’s “little way” with its lesson that even the littlest act, done with great love, is beautiful in Jesus’s eyes. Writer Becky Arganbright has adapted St. Thérèse’s lesson of the little flowers into a delightful parable for children. The young Thérèse learns that even though she might be little, with God’s help, her littleness can be a way of doing great things for God.
5 year-old Molly McBride dreams of becoming a nun when she grows up, so Momma sewed her a purple habit just like the ones worn by her special friends, the Children of Mary Sisters. And she never wants to take it off! Until now, this hasn’t caused the McBride family any major problems. But Molly’s big sister Terry has a very, very special day coming up, and Momma bought Molly a fancy new dress to wear for the occasion. Will Molly find a way to wear her purple habit to The Big Day? And why do nuns wear habits, anyway? Molly McBride and the Purple Habit is more than just a cute and colorful story to entertain Catholic children of all ages. Dr. Egolf’s book explores important tenets of our beautiful Faith such as the Sacraments and the Holy Mystery of the Mass in a simple but beautiful way that takes the whole family into a deeper understanding of Christ’s Love.
(also available from Sacred Heart Books and Gifts!)
Pro Multis Media is pleased to present an all-new animated DVD, The Story of Mary! This all new DVD combines music, animation, sacred art, and computer graphics to explain the Church’s teachings about the Blessed Virgin Mary in simple story form. In this unique presentation, young Catholic hearts and minds will encounter Our Blessed Mother in the Biblical stories of the Annunciation, Visitation, Nativity, the Finding in the Temple, the Wedding at Cana, and more. Plus, they will learn the Church’s traditions regarding the birth and early life of Mary, her Glorious Assumption and Coronation as Queen of Heaven. Also included is the history and the Mysteries of the Most Holy Rosary. Your little ones will want to visit Brother John again and again to experience The Story of Mary. Bonus Features include two “Sing-a-long Songs,”Three Persons in One God”, “I Assist at Mass” and “Anima Christi”. Running Time: approx. 30 minutes
Follow one family of rabbits as they do all their favorite things in this sweet, poetic story from award-winning author Douglas Florian. The habits of rabbits are many, not few, with plenty of things that they love to do! This sweet, lyrical story by Douglas Florian follows a family of rabbits as they have fun doing everyday things like digging holes, building snow rabbits, thumping their feet, and more. But as the day comes to an end, their favorite thing to do is say “goodnight” with a hug and a kiss.
I ran across this sweet story at Barnes and Noble last week.
Extraordinary hen P. Zonka spends her time taking in the beauty around her: the shiny green of the grass, the buttery yellows of the dandelions, the deep blue of the sky. The other hens can’t understand why she never lays eggs like they do. Finally, P. Zonka gives in and lays an egg. To everyone’s delight, she produces a wondrous egg that contains all the colors and designs that she has stored in her creative imagination.
The artistic chicken’s name is no accident! An author’s note explains that a pysanka is a Ukrainian decorated egg. This will make a fun addition to our other books about Ukrainian Easter Eggs including The Egg Tree and Rechenka’s Eggs.
This beautiful, newly illustrated hardcover edition of the classic 1911 title by Mother Mary Loyola is the perfect gift for a First Communicant! This little 4″ x 6″ pocket gem contains more than just daily prayers: Two different sets of meditations for the Mass are accompanied by illustrations showing what the priest is doing at each stage. Add Mother Loyola’s excellent examination of conscience, geared especially for children, devotional stories that foster a loving obedience, and the gorgeous full-color illustrations, and you’ll be wishing you had such a book as a child!
The fun begins when children open the magnetic play board and discover an inviting church interior, colorfully illustrated and complete with Stations of the Cross, stained-glass windows, statues of the Blessed Virgin and St. Joseph, peopled pews and even a confessional! Next come the 38 magnetic pieces that depict holy objects, the clergy (a surprise appearance by Fr. Juan Pablo plus a change of vestments!) and a sister (Sr. Mary Clara is back!), altar servers, parishioners and more. And there’s a wonderful little companion booklet to read aloud with your child. It explains many of the holy objects found in Catholic Churches giving meaning to the assorted magnets.
When Catholic Child said they were sending me this set as a sample I honestly wasn’t sure it would be something I’d like. I love it! It brings a renewed appreciation for both the Extraordinary as well as the Ordinary Form of the Mass. Priests can face Ad Orientem and can be displayed in traditional cassock. A gem of an interactive tool for little ones!
Zooom! Wooeeee . . . ! “Make way!” The big city sure is a speedy, noisy place for a country truck like Blue. Everywhere Blue looks, he sees buses, police cars, taxis, vans, a street sweeper, and even the mayor’s limousine. With everyone pushing to be first, soon there’s a giant traffic jam! But even a wrangle-tangle is no match for Little Blue Truck, who comes to the rescue in true Blue style. Brimming with bright colors, sounds, and city energy, this adventure makes working together and taking turns more fun than ever.
This was another recent discovery at Barnes and Noble. Bud spotted it across the room and asked his brother to read it to him! I know he’ll be excited to find it in his Easter basket.
There is no Easter Bunny! insists Father Rabbit. And rabbits do not lay eggs! Despite his protests, the Rabbit children are convinced that their father is the Easter Bunny. Humbug! and Foolishness! are Father Rabbit s answer when his little bunnies keep insisting that he must be the Easter Bunny! Chaos ensues when Granny, who lives in a house above the Rabbit family s burrow, decorates eggs for her grandchildren s Easter egg hunt and they disappear.
Who would do such a dastardly thing? Where could they be? What will be next? It is a day full of colorful surprises for everyone especially Father Rabbit! when unexpected things start hatching.
Brand new reprint of the original out-of-print 1974 book. Thanks for the recommendation, Jana! I’m looking forward to reading it this Easter!
From the husband-and-wife team that created the timeless classic The Carrot Seed comes another simple and delightful story for parents and children to enjoy together, now with a refreshed cover design. Sparse text and simple pictures make The Happy Egg just right for the youngest of readers, and the storyline lends itself to interactive reading—parents can encourage their children to walk, sing, and fly as the little bird does. Perfect as a baby shower or Easter basket gift, The Happy Egg celebrates the promise and confidence of little birds (and young children) everywhere.
Little Chick: Finger Puppet Book
In this adorable new addition to the bestselling finger puppet series, watch as Little Chick hatches out of his egg and explores the springtime world. . . only to discover exploring is always more fun with friends! Featuring a plush finger puppet permanently attached to the book and peeka- boo holes in every page, Little Chick gives parents and children a fun, interactive way to play and read together.
A Basket of Books to Giveaway!
In addition to all the wonderful new books our children will receive this Easter, I also have a basket filled with books to send to my visitors here at Shower of Roses! Thank you to St. Augustine Academy Press, Catholic Child, Jacob’s Toy Box and Books, author Susan Peek, Pauline Books & Media, Sacred Heart Books and Gifts, and Peanut Butter and Grace for sponsoring these giveaways!
Prize #1:
The King of the Golden City and Brass Knuckles sponsored by St. Augustine Academy Press
(The King of the Golden City will be released on March 15, 2016! – combined value $32.90)
Prize #2:
Brother Francis, Sacraments (DVD) and Our Heavenly Friends (Flash Cards) sponsored by Sacred Heart Books and Gifts
(combined value $27.69)
Prize #3:
Sister Marie Story: Saint Philomena, HELP! and Rosary Meditations for Children sponsored by Jacob’s Toy Box and Books
(combined value $22.49)
Prize #4:
The Tale of Three Trees
sponsored by Catholic Child (value $14.95)
Featuring the wonderful illustrations of Tim Jonke, this best-selling children’s book tells the Easter story from a new and unusual point of view. Children will be deeply touched as they understand, perhaps for the first time, the significance of Christ’s life and his atoning sacrifice on the cross.
Animals of God
sponsored by author Susan Peek (value $12.95)
Children’s Stories of Animals Who Encountered Saints . . . Told from the Animals’ Points of View! Three delightful stories for young Catholics, beautifully illustrated with black and white drawings. Includes Bonus Reproducible Coloring Book in the back! Stories in Volume One include: The Little Lamb’s Wish, The Hungry Gray Mule, and The Loyal Friend. Children will delight in these wonderful animal tales!
A Single Bead
sponsored by Pauline Books & Media (value $12.95)
On the anniversary of the plane crash that took the life of her beloved grandmother and threw her own mother into a deep depression, 16-year-old Katelyn Marie Roberts discovers a single bead from her grandmother’s rosary-a rosary lost in the crash. A chance encounter with a stranger, who tells Katelyn that a similar bead saved her friend’s life, launches Katelyn and her family on a quest to find the other missing beads. Their mysterious journey, filled with glimmers of hope, mystical encounters and unexplained graces takes them further into the unknown. Katelyn turns to the Rosary for answers and soon finds that family, prayer and the help of others may be the key to restoring what was lost.
Young Thérèse Martin loved Jesus so much, she wanted to do something great for him. But she is too little to do big things for Jesus…or is she? The Little Flower: A Parable of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux is a wonderful way to introduce children to the spirituality of St. Thérèse’s “little way” with its lesson that even the littlest act, done with great love, is beautiful in Jesus’s eyes. Writer Becky Arganbright has adapted St. Thérèse’s lesson of the little flowers into a delightful parable for children. The young Thérèse learns that even though she might be little, with God’s help, her littleness can be a way of doing great things for God.
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Our Lent and Easter Book Baskets
100+ Easter Basket Stuffers & Catholic Gift Ideas
Bargain Priced Board Books for Easter Baskets
I’ve been browsing through lots of books lately searching for some new ideas for this year’s Easter Baskets. I happened to run across some great deals on a few of our favorite spring and Easter themed board books and wanted to share them with you all! Amazon’s prices change frequently, so don’t wait to place your order if you are interested in any of the following books.
I am a Bunny
This classic Golden Book, illustrated by Richard Scarry, celebrates its 50th anniversary with the story of Nicholas, a bunny clad in red overalls. In the spring, he picks flowers, and in the summer, watches the frogs in the pond. In the fall, he sees the animals getting ready for winter. And when winter comes, he watches the snow falling from the sky…then curls up in his hollow tree to dream about Spring. No child’s library is complete without this gentle story of the seasons.
Right now you can purchase a copy of I am a Bunny at 45% off and only $3.30! (Our youngest discovered this book in his 2013 Easter Basket.)
God Bless Our Easter
Preschoolers can’t help but notice all the new wonders of springtime, and God Bless Our Easter emphasizes that each blessing comes from God! Lambs, bunnies, ducklings, piglets, chicks―lots of snuggly farm animals will take your little ones through the sweet rhyming story and have them asking to read the book long after Easter is past.
Right now you can purchase a copy of God Bless Our Easter at 45% off and only $5.52! (Our youngest discovered this book in his 2014 Easter Basket.)
All Creatures Great and Small
Naoko Stoop’s charming art, with an array of cuddly animals and an adorable little girl, captures the sweet spirit of the lyrics, which offer praise for nature, beauty, and the glory of all creation. The girl, accompanied everywhere by a cute monkey, wanders through glowing fields of flowers, where birds fly and nest; purple mountains with a flowing river where ducks make their home; and lush butterfly-filled meadows, perfect for playing. This is a gorgeous book for parents and children to share.
This one isn’t marked down quite as much as the others, but it’s still a great price and less than what I paid for our copy! Right now you can purchase All Creatures Great and Small at 27% off and only $5.05! (Our youngest daughter loved finding this book in her 2014 Easter Basket.)
On The Night You Were Born
Here is a book that celebrates the one and only ever you! Now available in its entirety in board book format, Nancy Tillman’s masterpiece is perfect for acknowledging the special people in our lives that they are loved.
For all those using the Life is Precious Unit Study (or who plan to in the future!), right now you can order a copy of this board book featured in the unit study at 41% off and only $4.72!
{pretty, happy, funny, real} :: Leap Day
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| The Seasonal Planner {Spring Edition} The Month of St. Joseph: Exercises for Each Day of the Month of March from the New Additions to Our March Book Basket |
The kids were all so happy to discover their Leap Day Time Capsules on the dining table. They loved looking through them to see what they recorded back in 2012…
… and to see how much they have grown in the last four years. They are all at least a head and shoulders taller than last Leap Day!
Leap Day Time Capsule {Free Printable}
Four years ago on February 29, 2012 {Leap Day!} we made time capsules… The kids were so excited to wake up and find them on the table this morning!
They all wanted to make these again this year so I hopped over to PicMonkey and created images for a new document inspired by the original printable we used four years ago. I laid out the document so that it can just be printed and folded this time, instead of cutting and pasting the pages into a booklet like we did last leap day.
My little ones can hardly wait to start filling them out after lunch this afternoon. And Bud, who was only a couple months old last leap day, saw the pictures in the archives last night and has been saying “Mommy! Will you pleeeaassseeee make me an apple frooooggggg!” all morning! I guess we’ll be doing that this afternoon too! 🙂 Good thing I happened to pick up some apples after Mass yesterday and I think we still have at least a few marshmallows leftover from the Thor’s Hammer Birthday Cake I made earlier this month.
If any of you would like to make 2016 Leap Day Time Capsules with your children today, you are welcome to download and use my document! I just uploaded the pdf to Dropbox. Here’s the link:
New Additions to Our March Book Basket
Happy 3rd Sunday of Lent! It’s hard to believe that Lent is nearly half over… And it is already time to start filling our book basket with books for March! I have a few new additions to our family’s ever growing collection to share with you today. You can also find last year’s New Additions for March in the archives. Be sure to scroll to the bottom and leave a comment to enter this week’s giveaway!
In addition to our Lenten devotions, I plan to begin reading the following book aloud each day beginning on the “Eve of the First Day” and continuing through the “Thirty-First Day” of March and praying the Nine Day Novena to St. Joseph and the Thirty Days’ Prayer to St. Joseph, found in the back of the book, for special intentions. The section for each day is only a few pages long and includes a short reflection followed by a prayer for the day and resolutions. I haven’t read it yet, but it looks excellent.
The Month of St. Joseph: Exercises for Each Day of the Month of March
(Also available directly from St. Augustine Academy Press)
St. Teresa of Avila tells us, “I took for my advocate and lord the glorious Saint Joseph and commended myself earnestly to him…he gave me greater blessings than I could ask of him. I do not remember even now that I have ever asked anything of him which he has failed to grant.”
This hidden saint, the blessed foster-father of our Lord and protector of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is a powerful intercessor for us, as well as a model of perfect virtue. The bible records not a single word of his, yet we know that in the holy house at Nazareth, the young Jesus-the Word made Flesh-was subject to him. Through this series of daily meditations for the month of March, we may increase our devotion to this great saint while also making a fruitful use of the days of Lent. As patron not only of fathers and of the worker, but of the universal church, all of us-men and women, old and young-would do well to look to him in our every need.
I am slowly working on building up our collection of books from the In the Footsteps of the Saints Series. Here are our new additions for the feasts of St. Patrick, St. Benedict, and St. Perpetua.
(Also available directly from Sacred Heart Books and Gifts)
(Also available directly from Sacred Heart Books and Gifts)
(Also available directly from Sacred Heart Books and Gifts)
I just ordered a copy of this book so I haven’t seen it in person yet, but I think it’s going to be a fun addition to our collection. I plan to give it to the kids on St. Patrick’s Day along with a couple other little treats. (Note: You can “Look Inside” on the Amazon page for the Kindle Edition.)
The Wolf and the Shield: An Adventure with Saint Patrick
(Published by Pauline Books and Media)
Kieran is braver and stronger than most eleven-year-old boys. And ever since his father’s death, he’s been doing his best to take care of his mother and little brother. In fifth-century Ireland, though, there aren’t many options. When Kieran rescues a wolf pup and meets Saint Patrick, his choices become even more difficult. Should he leave home to join Carrick’s warriors? Will someone discover the wolf he’s been hiding and kill it? But the hardest question for Kieran to answer is the one Patrick had asked him on a moonlit night: What does your heart hunt for? Join Kieran as he cares for an orphaned wolf pup and searches for a shield strong enough to protect everything-and everyone-he loves. Filled with well-researched facts about the people, animals, and customs of fifth-century Ireland, The Wolf and the Shield is historical fiction for children ages 7-10. Exciting and fast-paced, this adventure novel explores what friendship with a saint might be like, showing Saint Patrick as approachable and understanding of the challenges of a young boy. The Wolf and the Shield: An Adventure with Saint Patrick will stimulate young imaginations to realize that the saints are holy but also human and approachable, and they are always good friends.
There is a good chance that we will be spending St. Patrick’s day on the road this year and I’m going to fill up a memory card with audio stories for the drive including Torch of Fire – St. Patrick from Regina Martyrum Productions!
This is the story of an apostle, chosen by Jesus Christ himself, who picked up the fiery torch of truth and bravely carried it into a land of utter darkness 400 years after Our Lord had risen from the dead. It was the land of Ireland and this magnificent man not only converted that whole country, but also kindled the fire so brightly that we still feel its warmth around the world today. This is a story of St. Patrick
Before I go I have a little gift to send one of my visitors for the upcoming feast of St. Patrick! Simply leave a comment on this post by next Saturday, March 6, 2016 and one commenter will be randomly chosen to receive Patrick: Brave Shepherd of the Emerald Isle (DVD) and St. Patrick (Tiny Saints). I’ll announce the winner in this post and also contact them by email next Sunday.
Update: Thank you all for participating in this week’s giveaway! Congratulations, Carrie!
Gospel Time Trekkers {Sponsored Review}
“Three ordinary kids, six extraordinary adventures, one incredible quest! The Gospel Time Trekkers series follows the adventures of three siblings as they travel back to Gospel times to find Jesus and learn to discover him in their everyday lives. This wonderful historical fiction series shares Christian faith and values in a creative way for today’s kids while remaining true to Bible culture and scholarship.”
Hearty Healing Beef Stew
I modified the original ingredients (serves 4 to 5) from The Healing Kitchen to make enough stew for our family of nine:
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 3-4 pounds beef stew meat
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
- 2 large yellow onions, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme (This time I used 1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cinnamon stick (I am out so I used 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon)
- 2 (1-inch) pieces fresh orange peel
- 8 cups Beef Broth
- 1 – 15 oz can Sweet Potato Puree
- 1 cup red wine
- 8-10 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces (the first time I used 1 bag of Trader Joe’s Carrots of Many Colors)
- 1 head of celery, chopped
- 1-2 bunches of kale, chopped
Directions:
Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the meat, sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of the salt, and brown on all sides for 8-10 minutes total, but avoid getting a crust on the outside. (Make sure you scrape up all those caramelized brown bits from the bottom of your pot to give your stew a deep, rich flavor!)
Stir in the onion, thyme, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, orange peel, and remaining 1 teaspoon of salt and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, until fragrant.
Add the broth, sweet potato puree, and wine to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover with a lid, and cook for 1 hour.
For the feast of St. Brigid, the girls also made our “St. Brigid’s Cross Dinner Rolls” again this year to serve alongside the stew for the rest of the family who aren’t on a grain-free diet. I love how they turn out!
Benedictines of Mary, Queen of Apostles {Sponsored Giveaway}
This week one of my visitors here at Shower of Roses will WIN two soul inspiring CDs from the Benedictines of Mary, Queen of the Apostles: Lent at Ephesus and Easter at Ephesus!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
You can also order them directly from the sisters!
Thor’s Hammer :: An Avenger Themed Birthday Cake
Thor’s Hammer :: An Avenger Themed Birthday Cake
As I mentioned over at Instagram, this cake wasn’t one of my best, but considering I hadn’t even come up with a theme until the night before, I was really excited with how the birthday party came together! Even though the cake didn’t turn out exactly like I originally envisioned, it really did turn out neat and was a definitely a hit with the birthday boy and the rest of my family. Thank you all for the sweet comments as well!
Here’s what I used:
- 2 – 8″ chocolate cakes
- chocolate frosting
- Oreo Cookies
- Candy Melts (Light Cocoa, White and Black)
- Silver Sugar Sheet (leftover from the Hockey Jersey Birthday Cake)
- 1 Batch of Rice Krispie Treats (3 TBS Butter, 40 large marshmallows, 6 cups Rice Krispies – Melt butter in large saucepan over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted. Remove from heat.)
While I baked the cake I had a couple helpers making the Rice Krispie Treats which I planned to use to mold into the hammer for on top of the cake.
With buttered hands we shaped a rectangular block for the hammer head and then a roll for the handle. We had the equivalent of one or two treats leftover for my helpers to sample. 😉
This is what happens when you forget to “cool completely” before trying to frost the cake… Whoops!
After it had a chance to finish cooling, I cut a chunk out of the top of the cake to sit the hammer down into for stability, added a little of the trimmed cake to one side to create a bit of a mound, and then added the rest of the frosting.
One of the girls crushed about six or seven Oreos to place on the top and all around the base of the cake. Not only did it taste great (according to my family) it also helped disguise the horrible job I did with the frosting!
Fondant would have probably worked so much better, but I was trying to use up some of the decorating supplies I had in the cupboard. I mixed some white and black candy melts to create gray for the hammerhead and then used light cocoa for the handle. It was so hard to get it to look smooth over the Rice Krispies, plus I was in a hurry so I didn’t spend that much time on it either. I then used some strips of the silver sugar sheet to wrap around the handle and cover the end. Once it had a chance to dry we placed in on top of the cake. All done!
You can see the rest of the party here:
The Little Flower: A Parable of St. Thérèse of Liseux {Sponsored Review & Giveaway}
Happy First Sunday of Lent and Feast of St. Valentine to all my visitors here at Shower of Roses! We are heading out to my parents to celebrate my brother’s birthday (he was born on St. Valentine’s day 26 years ago today) but first I wanted to share a new picture book from Peanut Butter & Grace with you all…
“Becky Arganbright has adapted St. Thérèse’s lesson of the little flowers into a delightful parable for children. The young Thérèse learns that even though she might be little, with God’s help, her littleness can be a way of doing great things for God.”
I’ve been looking for books to include in our children’s Easter Baskets next month and am excited to add this parable of St. Thérèse and her “Little Way” to our youngest daughter’s basket, especially since she is named after this beloved saint.
The inspiring book is filled with beautiful watercolor illustrations and will make a lovely addition to our collection of children’s books about dear St. Thérèse!
Peanut Butter & Grace has generously offered to send THREE of my visitors a softcover edition of The Little Flower: A Parable of St. Thérèse of Liseux! The winners will be selected and announced in this post next Sunday. The books will be shipped to the winners directly from Peanut Butter & Grace.
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