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Bargain Priced Toys :: LEGO Great Vehicles

Mar 24, 2015 | , , | 3 Comments

Hello! Wow, has it really been two weeks?!

I didn’t intend to take a break from blogging here at Shower of Roses, but between hosting the giveaways (thank you all for participating and congratulations to all 30 winners!), a special diet I’ve been on for the last three weeks (I’ll share the details later), friends visiting from the Midwest (a family of 7, including one of my Godsons!), three months worth of “Quiet Moments” due for the summer edition of Catholic Digest, and then coming down with a cold/flu which has knocked me off my feet, I just haven’t had the time or energy… I’ve missed blogging and really hope that I can start fitting it back in again soon!

In the meantime, just in case I didn’t share enough Easter Basket Stuffer Ideas in my last post, I wanted to pop in real quick to let you all know that once again Amazon has some great discounts on LEGO sets!

Last year we gave each of our boys a small LEGO set in their baskets. They didn’t see them at first, but got so excited when they realized that the bottom of their baskets were filled with LEGO bricks and the directions to build a set. I had taken them all out of the boxes and used them as filler. 🙂

Photo taken last November of the boys’ LEGO town

Our boys all really love the Great Vehicles in the City collection and right now many of them are 20% off which drops the price to just $15.99 each. These are also great to have on hand to give as birthday party gifts for friends! Here are the links to some of the sets that are currently on sale:

LEGO City Great Vehicles Camper Van

LEGO City Great Vehicles Dune Buggy Trailer

LEGO City Great Vehicles Pickup Tow Truck

LEGO City Great Vehicles Snowplow Truck

LEGO City Great Vehicles Racing Bike Transporter

LEGO City Fire Truck


The following sets are priced a little higher but are also currently 20% off:

LEGO City Great Vehicles 4×4 with Powerboat (pictured above)

LEGO City Great Vehicles Auto Transporter

LEGO Creator Vehicle Transporter

LEGO City Service Truck (pictured below)

My boys also really love the Creator sets and the Mountain Hut (definitely a favorite!) is currently 25% off:  Lego Creator Mountain Hut

The boys all think the new Service Truck is awesome and purchased it with their savings. Apparently they needed a porta potty for their city…  Oh! And that old photo of the Bull Rider is the background? That’s my husband. 🙂 

100+ Easter Basket Stuffers & Catholic Gift Ideas {Plus a Basketful of Giveaways!}

Mar 8, 2015 | , | 278 Comments

A number of years ago I shared a post with a variety of Catholic Easter Basket Ideas to help incorporate our beautiful Catholic faith and the true meaning of Easter. The following updated list contains over 100 Easter Basket Stuffers & Catholic Gift Ideas! Most of the following items have been given to our own children in the past, with some new additions for this year. Be sure to scroll all the way to the bottom of this post to enter the giveaway for a chance to win one of 20 prizes from my generous sponsors with a combined value of over $500!

Note: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.


.: Easter Picture Books :.

.: Patron Saints :.

  1. Hand Painted Wooden Saints from Catholic Folk Toys (Custom orders welcome! My little “Rose” will be finding the soon to be canonized Martin’s along with their daughter St. Therese in her Easter basket this year, which I custom ordered from Tammy last fall.) 
  2. Saint Blessing Blocks from Almond Rod Toys 
  3. Shining Light Dolls 
  4. Saint Charms from Tiny Saints
  5. Saints ‘N Stitches Embroidery Kits from Waltzing Matilda Makes… (limited time only!) 
  6. Prayer Pillowcases (Our youngest will receive the Good Shepherd:Our Father Pillowcase in his Easter Basket this year.) 
  7. Embroidered Soft Saint Dolls
  8. Alphabet of Saints Block Set (DIY Craft Idea found in the archives here at Shower of Roses) 
  9. Saint Habits for Dolls from The Little Habit

My girls fell in love with the darling gifts they received this past Christmas made by The Little Habit!  They will each receive one more habit for their dolls this Easter.  Twinkle Toes will receive the Guardian Angel Dress, Chiquita will receive Our Lady of Guadalupe and Crown, and Rose will receive Mary’s White Dress with Blue Cape and White Veil and Mary’s Rose Wreath.

.: Coloring Books :.

  1. Triumph of Jesus Coloring Book from Holy Heroes
  2. Easter Coloring Book from Sacred Heart Books and Gifts
  3. Fenestrae Fidei: A Coloring Companion for Catholic Mosaic
  4. Easter Eggs: Artful Eggs from Around the World Stained Glass Coloring Book or Intricate Eggs 
  5. Catholic Coloring Posters from Catholic Child
  6. Sacred Heart of Jesus Coloring Book
  7. Cathedrals: Cathedrals of the World Coloring Book or Cathedral Stained Glass Coloring Book
  8. Catholic Story Coloring Books: All these coloring books include beautiful stories by Mary Fabyan Windeatt
  9. The Holy Imitation Series: Eucharistic Adoration, Life of Jesus, Mother of God, Holy Name of Jesus, Choirs of Angels, and Communion of Saints. 

.: Art Supplies :.

  1. eeBoo sketchbook with coordinating colored pencil set  (Our girls love these eeBoo Gold Birds Metallic Pencils.)
  2. Crayon Rocks in a Cotton Muslin Bag
  3. Branch and Twig Colored Pencils
  4. Mr. Sketch Scented Stix, Watercolor Markers
  5. Yarka Semi Moist Watercolor – Set of 8, Set of 10, Set of 12 (I’ve given our children the Melissa & Doug Take-Along Waterpaint set which they love, but it doesn’t last very long. Another good – and inexpensive- option is the Prang Watercolor Sets.) 
  6. Nature Journal from Michele Quigley
  7. Sidewalk Chalk
  8. Prang Paper Chalk
  9. Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils 24 Pack or 48 Pack with Pencil Sharpener (The Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils are expensive but the first choice of our older children. I was able to purchase another set for $23.99 during the Lightning Deals before Christmas! I usually purchase the Prang Colored Pencils for our younger children.) 
.: Holy Cards and Games :.

  1. Holy Traders
  2. Church Windows
  3. Saint Memory Game (You can also make your own Saint Joseph Memory Match Playing Cards with Printables in the Archives!)
  4. Old Masters Holy Card Set (Update: These are now out of stock. Here is another beautiful option for vintage style Holy Cards.) 
  5. Personalized Holy Cards from Keepsakes by Carrie (I’m planning on ordering personalized Holy Cards for each of my children with the dates of their Baptisms and First Holy Communions to add to their Holy Card collections!) 
  6. Reverence and Awe Collector Cards from Arma Dei
  7. Catholic By The Number Card Game
  8. Little Flowers Memory Cards (recently updated!)
  9. Friendly Defenders Catholic Flash Cards and Friendly Defenders Two
.: Stationary and Stickers :.

  1. Spiritual Bouquet Cards (Printable PDF to color) from SaongJai 
  2. Sticker Seals with Vintage Holy Card Images from Luvcrystals (I also love these Easter themed animal stickers.) 
  3. Easter Gift Tags from The Fig and Thimble
  4. Dover Sticker Books including: Shiny Crosses, Angels in Art, Celtic Crosses, Old-Time Bunny Rabbit Stickers, Glitter Old-Time Easter Stickers, Old-Time Easter Stickers, and Old-Time Easter Animals Stickers.
  5. Note Stationary from Trademark Catholic Stationary 
  6. The Story of Easter Sticker Book, Saints for Boys Sticker Book, and Saints for Girls Sticker Book (I purchased ours from at a Catholic bookstore. It looks like Catholic Free Shipping has the best prices for these online.) 
  7. Stationary Cards from Three Archangels Save 10% with coupon code Discount10
  8. Masha and Friends: 15 Matryoshka Notecard
  9. Postcards from Audrey Eclectic (While you are at Audrey Eclecic, be sure to check out the beautiful Saint Brigid and Saint Clare prints. Our oldest daughter recieved the original painting of St. Brigid and I also have the original of Saint Clare stashed in the closet to give as a birthday gift next month!)
.: Small Toys :.

  1. Green Toys Jump Rope in Green, Pink, or Purple
  2. Calico Critters 
  3. Melissa & Doug Sunny Patch Bella Butterfly Bubbles
  4. Doll Accessories from The Little Habit
  5. Metal Earth Model Sets (Note: these are challenging to assemble. My 13 year old loves them, the 14 year old not so much! Over Christmas break our 13 year old enjoyed building Notre Dame!) 
  6. Night Copter (My parents gave these to the boys for Christmas. So fun!) 
  7. Schleich Animals (lamb, peacock, rooster, chicks, etc) 
  8. Folkmanis Finger Puppets (We’ve collected nearly all of these sweet little finger puppets over the years.) 
  9. Kids 3-Piece Garden Tool Set 
Bonus: I almost forgot to include Play Silks! These make a great alternative to use as filler instead of plastic easter grass and will be played with for years. 
.: Religious Medals, Scapulars, Veils, and Rosaries :.

  1. Hand Embroidered/Sewn Scapulars and Medals from StellaMarigoldArt
  2. Brown Scapular (Our children have this simple scapular, as well as beautiful scapulars from Mary Devotions and StellaMarigoldArt.)
  3. Little Girls Light Pink Veil with Tie-Backs and Swirled Rosette Cluster from Robin Nest Lane
  4. Boys First Holy Communion One Decade Tenner from Loreto Rosaries 
  5. Pondered In Her Heart Rosary (and many other beautiful creations!) from Mary Devotions
  6. Miraculous Medal Youth Bracelet from Gail Giron Designs 
  7. Sacred Heart with Immaculate Heart Tapestry Rosary Pouch (many additional designs available including: Madonna and Child, Crucifixion, and more.) 
  8. St. Michael Sports Medals from Catholic Child
  9. Crocheted Wool Rosary Roses from The Fig and Thimble
.: Prayer Books, Sacred Music, and More :.
  1. Treasure & Tradition: The Ultimate Guide to the Latin Mass (Read my husband’s review here.) 
  2. Saints for Boys and Saints for Girls
  3. Jesus Make Me Worthy (also available from Fraternity Publishing)
  4. Rosary Flip Book with Desktop Easel (Sacred Art Series) in 4″x5” or 8″x10″
  5. Easter at Ephesus
  6. The Holy Gospels of St. Luke and St. John (Sacred Art Series) 
  7. Favorite Prayers for Catholic Children (You can find the whole Gloria Series at Sacred Heart Books & Gifts for just $3.00 per book!) 
  8. Little Catholics Set: Manners In God’s House, Jesus and Mary, I Believe
  9. The Little Children’s Prayer Book in Hardcover or Paperback
.: Easter Crafts, Decorations, and More :.
.: Easter Candy :.

Don’t forget to include some symbolic Easter candy!
Easter Symbols :: Handcrafted Candy for Easter


.: A Basketful of Giveaways :.
There will be one winner for each of the following 20 prizes! These all make great gifts too:
Prize #1 – Deluxe Easter Blocks – 15 Piece Set sponsored by Almond Rod Toys (value $75.00)

Prize #2 – Hand Embroidered/Sewn 100% Wool Scapular sponsored by StellaMarigoldArt (winner chooses the cord/length – value $45.00)

Prize #3 – Hand Painted Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary sponsored by Catholic Folk Toys (value $40.00)

Prize #4 – Two Personalized Pillowcases from Prayer Pillowcases (winner chooses styles, free personalization included – value $39.90)

Prize #5 – Little Girls’ Rosette Veil sponsored by Robin Nest Lane (value – $38.00)

Prize #6 – Mary’s White Dress with Blue Cape and White Veil sponsored by The Little Habit (doll and shoes not included – value $35.00) Receive FREE SHIPPING from The Little Habit until March 15th with coupon code ROSESFREESHIP.

Prize #7 – Immaculate Heart of Mary Print and Set of Three Our Lady of the Angels Greeting Cards sponsored by Three Archangels (value $30) – For a Limited Time Save 10% with coupon code Discount10

Prize # 8 –  The Little Children’s Prayer Book sponsored by St. Augustine Academy Press (value $29.95)

Prize #9 – Infinity Veil sponsored by Robin Nest Lane  (winner can choose favorite color – white, black, brown, cream, natural (linen colored), gold, silver, cranberry red, and blush pink – value – $27.50)

Prize #10 – Your Choice of one Notebook sponsored by Mama’s Notebooks (value up to $24.99) Notebooks are 10% off at present. One of the following coupon codes below can be used in addition to the sale: Buy three books and get one of equal or lesser value with coupon code TRGE15 or save 5% with coupon code FAST5

Prize #11 – Treasure and Tradition: The Ultimate Guide to the Latin Mass sponsored by St. Augustine Academy Press (value $24.95)

Prize #12 – Spring Holy Week Ornaments sponsored by Jesse Tree Treasures (value $22.95)

Prize #13 – St. Philomena Youth Bracelet sponsored by Gail Giron Designs (value $22.00) Save 10% on all First Communion Items with coupon code Eucharist15 which ends May 1, 2015. 

Prize #14 – Set of Five Gloria Series Books (includes: The Mass, Favorite Children’s Prayers, The Rosary, The Hail Mary, and The Holy Family) sponsored by Sacred Heart Books and Gifts (value $15.00)

Prizes #15, #16 and #17 – Easter at Ephesus CD sponsored by De Montfort Music (3 winners – value $14.59 each)

Prize #18 – St. Michael Sports Medal and your choice of 3 Magnetic Bookmarks sponsored by Catholic Child (value $14.45)

Prize #19 – One Sheet of Personalized Holy Cards (winner’s choice) sponsored by Keepsakes by Carrie (value $10.75)

Prize #20 – Variety Set of Post Cards sponsored by Audrey Eclectic Folk Art (value $10.00)

Please enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter box below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Winners were announced in this post and contacted by email on the Solemnity Feast of St. Joseph, March 19, 2015.

Stacks of Books on Christmas Morning

Mar 7, 2015 | , , , , | 6 Comments

I realized, while putting together this year’s Baskets of Books for Easter, that I never did share the list of books our children received for Christmas. Since I already had this post almost completed in my drafts folder, I decided to finish it up and share it with you all now. Hmmm… I also need to finish the post with the rest of the boys’ books/bookshelves… and many others!
Anyway, in 2013 I was inspired by Charlotte to give each of our children a “Stack of Books” as one of their Christmas gifts. Our children loved the stacks of books (at least most of them!) and we ended up giving them more this last Christmas! Here are the books they unwrapped: 
.: Captain – Age 14 :.


.: Ranger – Age 13 :. 
(he was still 12 when he received these for Christmas)

.: Twinkle Toes – Age 11 :. 
.: Chiquita – Age 9 :.
.: Snuggles – Age 7 :. 

Ambrose and the Cathedral Dream is currently listed at a great discount! 
.: Rose – Age 5 :. 

.: Bud – Age 3 :. 


The Ten Commandments Lap Book {Catechism Craft with Free Printables!}

Mar 4, 2015 | , , , , | 37 Comments

The Ten Commandments Lap Book

And Moses returned from the mount, carrying the two tables of the testimony in his hand, written on both sides, and made by the work of God; the writing also of God was graven in the tables. ~ Exodus 32:15-16

Our seven year old is currently preparing to make his First Confession and First Holy Communion. At the beginning of the school year we spent some time studying the Seven Sacraments and creating a “Seven Sacrament Stained Glass Window.” He has also been working on studying and memorizing The Ten Commandments.

The Ten Commandments were written by God on stone tablets and given to Moses on Mount Sinai. The first three commandments show us what we must do for love of God and the remaining seven show us what we must do for love of neighbor. In addition to our daily prayers and kind deeds, we love and serve God by keeping His commandments and those of His Church.

Back in 2009 I posted pictures of our first Ten Commandments Lap Book which I made back then with one of the older boys.  Last November I decided to make some modifications and printable documents for my current 2nd grader. At the time it also tied in nicely to our History studies (we had just finished reading the chapter on “The Law of Moses” from Augustus Caesar’s World) so the girls all asked if they could make Ten Commandment Lap Books too. I’m finally getting around to posting pictures along with the links to my documents to share!

This Ten Commandments Lap Book provides a perfect opportunity for reviewing the commandments with children, as well as a helpful resource for memorization!

Supplies (For Each Student)

Directions for Ten Commandments Lap Book

Open the file folder and find the midpoint. Fold each side in to meet that point creating a “shutter fold.” Trim the top edge to resemble stone tablets.

Title the cover of the Lap Book with “The Ten Commandments” or you may choose to use a coloring page, glued to only one of the front flaps, to create an image for the cover.

Create 10 small “mini-books” with the 5.5”x3” rectangles of grey cardstock. Fold each rectangle in half and then fold each side in to the midpoint. Trim the top edge of each to resemble stone tablets.

Write, trace, or glue the Ten Commandments inside the ten grey tablets.

1. I am the Lord, thy God; thou shalt not have strange gods before Me.
2. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain.
3. Remember to keep holy the Lord’s Day.
4. Honor thy father and thy mother.
5. Thou shalt not kill.
6. Thou shalt not commit adultery.
7. Thou shalt not steal.
8. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.
9. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s wife.
10. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s goods.

Write, trace, or glue a bible verse, prayer, or quote to include inside the file folder. We chose Exodus 32: 15-16.

Glue the tablets to the inside of the file folder in order from 1-10, leaving extra space in the center bottom for a bible verse. Glue the bible verse to the inside of the folder.

Number the outside of the each tablet.

A few more pictures of the completed Lap Book… 

 
The Ten Commandments Song
 
First, I must honor God, 
Second, honor His name, 
Third, honor His day, keep holy, this will be my aim. 
Forth, I must be obedient, 
Fifth, be kind and true, 
Sixth, be pure in all I say and see and hear and do. 
Seventh, I must be honest, 
Eighth, be truthful in all things I say. 
Ninth, be pure in mind and heart, in all I think and desire each day. 
Tenth, I must be satisfied, not be jealous, come what may. 
These are God’s Ten Commandments, these I must obey.
 
 

Additional Reading, Coloring Books, and Songs on the Ten Commandments:

The Ten Commandments by Lawrence G. Lovasik
Ten Commandments: God’s Laws for Us by Daniel A. Lord
I Believe: The Creed, Confession, and the Ten Commandments for Little Catholics
My Confession for Little Catholics
A Little Book about Confession for Children
My Confession Book
Living the Ten Commandments for Children
Exodus
Old Testament Scenes Stained Glass Coloring Book
The Commandments Coloring Book
The Ten Commandments Coloring Book
24 Catholic Songs for Children Coloring Book
Catholic Songs for Children
The New Catholic Picture Bible
The Catechism In Pictures (pictured in top photo)

O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee, and I detest all my sins, because I dread the loss of Heaven and the pains of Hell, but most of all because they offend Thee, my God, Who art all-good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve, with the help of Thy grace to confess my sins, to do penance and to amend my life. Amen.

Baskets of Books for Easter {and a Giveaway!}

Mar 3, 2015 | , , , , | 142 Comments

Easter is only one month away and I’ve been rounding up gifts to fill our children’s Easter Baskets! 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, 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 all the books, I usually include something that represents each child’s patron saint (this year I think it will be a mix of Saints ‘N Stitches, Wooden Saint Dolls, Blessing Blocks, and Prayer Pillowcases), art and/or writing supplies (this year it will include new pens, postcards, greeting cards, or notebooks), a small toy or two (maybe these NHL Minifigures, doll accessories from The Little Habit, Schleich animals to go along with the barn Bud received for his birthday, etc), and some symbolic Easter candy (I’ve made my own in the past or purchased it at the store) 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. 

For Captain (age 14):

The Imitation of Christ  (with zippered cover) 
Any book on the sacrament of Confirmation can explain what Confirmation is, but this is the only book that explains, in the most original and engaging manner, what Confirmation does. It is both a dialogue and a travelogue, taking the reader on a journey from the Crusades to the Crimea; from medieval ceremonies of Knighthood to early modern methods of warfare. What does it mean to be a Soldier of Christ? For the true child of God, life is a daily battle against a well-concealed foe-that is, our own flaws and failings-and Mother Mary Loyola proposes to arm young recruits adequately for this task, leaving no stone unturned in her quest to root out this ‘enemy at home’. This is the sort of basic training no young Catholic should be without.

My Daily Bread
(My husband requested that we give each of the older boys copies of The Imitation of Christ and My Daily Bread this Easter.) 
Hear Christ speak to you like never before. My Daily Bread is a series of short, daily reflections on the spiritual life. Written with loving care by Father Anthony Paone, this devotional will strengthen your love for Christ and his teachings. Written as a dialogue with Christ himself, Father Paone leads the reader through the three ways of the spiritual life: Purification, Imitation, and Union. Arranged for daily reflection, this pocket-sized book is an indispensible guide to the spiritual life.

The Young Man’s Guide
(also available directly from St. Augustine Academy Press)
Father Lasance’s Catholic Girl’s Guide, published in 1906, found immediate success among Catholic readers, and the natural demand for a companion volume gave rise to The Young Man’s Guide in 1910. Both have a similar format and similar material, though each is geared specifically for its particular audience. In The Young Man’s Guide we see life as warfare; thus those who would conquer must be prepared, as were the knights of old. The implements of battle are the young man’s virtues, and the fight will determine not only the character of the man he will become, but the crown he may win in the hereafter. 

Page, Esquire, and Knight
(also available directly from St. Augustine Academy Press)

A recent perusal of a modern set of encyclopedias revealed a mere three-line entry for Roland, whose story formed the basis for one of the first great epics of medieval France, the Chanson de Roland. So much of western culture was born from this legend, and yet most young people today have never even heard of him. Books like Page, Esquire and Knight are the perfect antidote to this lack. Condensed from such classics as Malory’s Morte d’Arthur, the Arthurian poems of Tennyson, and the original Chanson de Roland, it gives young people a solid introduction to these giants of literature which is sure to inspire a lasting interest. Included are tales of King Arthur’s knights, the battles of Charlemagne, Godfrey de Bouillon and The Crusades, St. George and the Dragon, and Pierre Terrail LeVieux, the famed Chevalier du Bayard. Engagingly written and enhanced by vivid illustrations, Page, Esquire and Knight is sure to be attractive to both boys and girls, young and old.

The Lego Neighborhood Book: Build Your Own Town! 
In The LEGO Neighborhood Book, you’ll create buildings with real-world details like cornices and facades, and try your hand at interior design by filling your buildings with furniture and light fixtures. Then add the finishing touches to your models with plants, traffic lights, scaffolding, and park benches. Snap together a few houses, shops, and apartment buildings to create your own neighborhood! Inside you’ll find: complete, step-by-step instructions for four multistory buildings, dozens of inspiring ideas to use in your own models, mini builds for a recliner, old-time lamp post, traffic light, and more…

Farmer Giles of Ham 

50th Anniversary Edition
The editors of the best-selling rediscovered Tolkien novel Roverandom present an expanded edition of Tolkien’s beloved classic Farmer Giles of Ham, complete with a map, the original story outline, the original first-edition illustrations by Pauline Baynes, and the author’s notes for an unpublished sequel. Farmer Giles of Ham is a light-hearted satire for readers of all ages that tells the tale of a reluctant hero who must save his village from a dragon. It is a small gem of a tale that grows more delightful with each rereading.

For Ranger (age 13):

The Imitation of Christ
Any book on the sacrament of Confirmation can explain what Confirmation is, but this is the only book that explains, in the most original and engaging manner, what Confirmation does. It is both a dialogue and a travelogue, taking the reader on a journey from the Crusades to the Crimea; from medieval ceremonies of Knighthood to early modern methods of warfare. What does it mean to be a Soldier of Christ? For the true child of God, life is a daily battle against a well-concealed foe-that is, our own flaws and failings-and Mother Mary Loyola proposes to arm young recruits adequately for this task, leaving no stone unturned in her quest to root out this ‘enemy at home’. This is the sort of basic training no young Catholic should be without.

My Daily Bread
(My husband requested that we give each of the older boys copies of The Imitation of Christ and My Daily Bread this Easter.)
Hear Christ speak to you like never before. My Daily Bread is a series of short, daily reflections on the spiritual life. Written with loving care by Father Anthony Paone, this devotional will strengthen your love for Christ and his teachings. Written as a dialogue with Christ himself, Father Paone leads the reader through the three ways of the spiritual life: Purification, Imitation, and Union. Arranged for daily reflection, this pocket-sized book is an indispensible guide to the spiritual life.

Christians Courageous 
(also available from Sacred Heart Books and Gifts)
For every half-dozen heroes antiquity could muster, Christendom produced thousands; and often from the strangest holes and corners. Instead of drying up the spirit of adventure, the Fire of Pentecost kindled it anew and made it burn with an unquenchable flame. The Master’s parting instructions to His followers resulted in a host of enterprises quite as daring as any to be found in Homer. Some of these are brought vividly to life in these stories about courageous Christians from the earliest days of Christianity to modern times. Although written primarily for youthful readers, they are sure to interest all those to whom the achievements of their fellow Christians are a matter of pride and encouragement.

The Book of Saints and Heroes 
(also available directly from St. Augustine Academy Press)
Andrew Lang and his wife Leonora are remembered best for their series of 12 fairy tale books–beginning with the Blue Fairy Book in 1889 and ending with the Lilac Fairy Book in 1910. These quickly became the most popular gift books of all time and remained so for several decades. And though all of them were published in Andrew’s name, his role was largely editorial–a great deal of the translating, adapting and rewriting was done by his wife Leonora and others. This husband and wife team next applied their highly successful formula for choosing, researching and adapting folk tales to the stories of the saints, creating The Book of Saints and Heroes in 1912, with a result that is both inspiring and fun to read. Illustrated by H.J. Ford, whose creations also illuminated the Fairy Books. This book is completely re-typeset in imitation of the 1912 edition by Longmans, Green & Co., with the original illustrations. 

Dollar Battle-Gami
Got a dollar burning a hole in your pocket? Impress your friends wherever you go with the readily available paper in your wallet. Or leave a creative tip for waiters and bartenders with these creative designs in Dollar Battle-Gami. Master paper engineer Won Park created this sophisticated origami kit for advanced paper artists. These 15 impressive projects turn a dollar bill (or a sheet of the included practice paper) into a combat knife, spy plane, hand grenade, revolver, tank, stealth bomber, stealth fighter, submarine, jet fighter, U.S. Navy destroyer, assault rifle, unmanned aerial drone, sniper rifle, land mine, or a Japanese zero fighter plane. Dollar Battle-Gami offers the next generation of origami enthusiasts a chance to gain a whole new perspective on battle tools and the world of origami.

Smith of Wootton Major
Recently republished! A charming new pocket edition of one of Tolkien’s major pieces of short fiction, and his only finished work dating from after publication of The Lord of the Rings. What began as a preface to The Golden Key by George MacDonald eventually grew into this charming short story, so named by Tolkien to suggest an early work by P.G. Wodehouse. Composed almost a decade after The Lord of the Rings, and when his lifelong occupation with the ‘Silmarillion’ was winding down, Smith of Wootton Major was the product of ripened experience and reflection. It was published in 1967 as a small hardback, complete with charming black and white illustrations by Pauline Baynes, and would be the last work of fiction to be published in Tolkien’s own lifetime. Now, almost 50 years on, this enchanting tale of a wanderer who finds his way into the perilous realm of Faery is being published once again as a pocket hardback. (pre-ordered – released on Feb. 26, 2015) 

For Twinkle Toes (age 11):

Tea and Cake with the Saints: A Catholic Young Lady’s Guide to Hospitality and the Home Arts
Second edition: Now with full color photos, as well as watercolor illustrations, throughout!
Hospitality does not have to be elaborate or difficult. It can begin right at home with one’s siblings and parents! It can be as simple as a picnic with a friend to celebrate their feast day or surprising your brother or sister with breakfast in bed. Many of the ideas in Tea & Cake with the Saints use saint’s feast days as the occasion for practicing hospitality in the form of simple tea parties, but almost all of the ideas given can be used for any occasion a girl can dream up…

Sixty Saints for Girls
Recently republished! Joan Windham’s Sixty Saints for Girls contains all her stories of girl and woman saints from her other books, with a number of new ones added. The stores are arranged by date, beginning with Our Lady’s mother, St. Anne, and finishing with another Anne, Anne de Guigne (this Anne, who died in 1922, aged 10, has not been canonized, but she was declared Venerable on March 3, 1990 by Pope John Paul II). In between is a lovely mix of saints, young and old, princesses and pilgrims, mothers and grandmothers and nuns: a goose-girl and a horse-dealer’s daughter; a girl who was kidnapped by pirates, a veterinarian, and (believe it or not) a ventriloquist! These stories are ideally suited to inspire readers to fall in love with virtue. No child reading them will ever suppose that saints are all cut to one pattern or that holiness is less interesting than bad behavior. Anyone who wants to know what a saint is really like will get a clear and beautiful picture by reading these accounts, and they can be enjoyed over and over again by children of all ages, and by adults alike.

A Little Princess 
Illustrated by Tasha Tudor! 


When Sara Crewe arrives at Miss Minchin’s London boarding school, she seems just like a real little princess. She wears beautiful clothes, has gracious manners, and tells the most wonderful stories. Then one day, Sara suddenly becomes penniless. Now she must wear rags, sleep in the school’s dreary attic, and work for her living. Sara is all alone, but keeps telling herself that she can still be a princess inside, if only she tries hard enough.

The Doll’s House 
From Rumer Godden, one of the foremost authors of the 20th century, and illustrated by two-time Caldecott Honor recipient Tasha Tudor, comes a heartwarming tale filled with imagination and creativity that is ideal for any girl who has ever loved a doll so much that it has become real to her.
For Tottie Plantaganet, a little wooden doll, belonging to Emily and Charlotte Dane is wonderful. The only thing missing is a dollhouse that Tottie and her family could call their very own. But when the dollhouse finally does arrive, Tottie’s problems really begin. That dreadful doll Marchpane comes to live with them, disrupting the harmony of the Plantaganet family with her lies and conceited way. Will Tottie ever be able to call the dollhouse home?

Tiny Stitches 
Brand new! Instructions and supplies for quick, hip, adorable, tiny embroidery pieces with mini hoops that kids turn into decorative pieces they can wear or display. Embroidery is on trend (with more than 37m Google listings and 1.4 million blog posts about tiny embroidery), and these darling, penny-sized pieces provide the perfect application for what kids do with their finished sewn art: necklace pendants, buttons, hair clips, and more. The book teaches the basics of embroidery with Klutz-clear instructions, and includes thread, fabric, a hoop, mini-display hoops, and 100+ patterns for tracing.
(This new release hasn’t shipped yet, but I’m hoping it will arrive on time! If not I’ll save it for her birthday in August and replace it with another book.) 

The Rose Round
13-year old Matt is spending the holidays at the dilapidated Woodhall mansion where his spirited step-sister Caroline works as cook. In a faded rose garden Matt meets Alix, proud old Madame Ayre’s granddaughter, and is introduced to the tension-filled relationship between the embittered mother and her crippled son Theo. Matt must learn to judge character rather than appearances as Theo strives to turn the house into a home for orphans. Alix, through her willful foolishness, puts Theo’s life in danger and brings a dramatic confrontation: Christian hope versus fatal self-pride. A timeless book with a fast-paced plot and vivid characters.

For Chiquita (age 9):

Saints Among the Animals 
What do a whatchful fly and a weight-bearing whale have in common?
A grateful saint — a saint whose life of work and devotion to God wouldn’t have been the same without the loyalty. the friendship of a lion or a blackbird, an eagle or a deer. Other saints in these stories — two of the liveliest are women — deal cleverly with animals who act up: snakes in one instance, greedy geese in another. But in each of these stories, the commonality of all living things is luminously celebrated. The ten saints, whose biographies are given in the last pages, are named on the back of this jacket. (Includes: St. Colman, St. Werburge, St. Francis, St. Medard, St, Canice, St. Hilda,St. Keneth, St. Brendan, St. Kevin, and St. Jerome.) 

The Golden Castle 
“Once upon a time there was a castle (only most people called it a monastery)…” Published in 1969, our monastery’s Golden Jubilee Year, this delightful “nun-fairy tale” takes us inside the “Golden Castle” (on the corner of Morris and Springfield Avenues in Summit, New Jersey!) and gives us a peek into the lives of its “princesses.” A light-hearted read for children of all ages.

Sisters of the Last Straw: The Case of the Missing Novice

 Will Mr. Lemon get Gracie the puppy taken away? Can Sister Krumbles find a way to stop Mr. Lemon’s evil plan? Where is Novice Kathy? Can the Sisters solve the mystery and find the lost Novice before it’s too late?

 (One of the girls received the first book in the series last year and Sisters of the Last Straw 3: The Case of the Stolen Rosaries is also available. I will probably give book 3 to Chiquita for her birthday in April.)

A Nest for Celeste: A Story About Art, Inspiration, and the Meaning of Home
A beautifully illustrated novel about a mouse, her friendship with Audubon’s apprentice, and her search for home. Beneath the crackled and faded painting of a horse, underneath the worn and dusty floorboards of the dining room, lives Celeste, a mouse who spends her days weaving baskets, until one day she is thrust into the world above. Here Celeste encounters danger—and love—unlike any she’s ever imagined. She dodges a hungry cat and witnesses the brutality of hunting for the first time. She makes friends with a singing thrush named Cornelius, a talkative osprey named Lafayette, and Joseph, Audubon’s young apprentice. All the while, Celeste is looking for a new home. In the end, Celeste discovers that home is really the place deep inside her heart, where friendships live.


Make Your Own Washi Tape Stickers 
Kids love washi tape (beautifully decorative paper tape that originated in Japan), but up until now they didn’t know quite what to do with it. Washi Tape Stickers is the only book that makes it easy to turn strips of pretty little tape into even prettier little stickers. The book is filled with pages and pages of traceable art and comes with six beautifully bright colors of washi tape, a stack of special peel-off backing paper, and a fine-line felt-tip pen. Simply trace a piece of art on the backing paper and cover it with washi tape. Then cut it out, peel it off, and you’ve got a perfectly shaped, perfectly adorable sticker.

The Wind in the Willows
Kenneth Grahame’s classic tale of the pleasures of country life and the dependability of good friends will never grow old. Now, in this splendid volume, Inga Moore recaptures its scenes and its characters with richly patterned and warmly detailed illustrations. Here, drawn with charming freshness, are impulsive dear Mole, rash Mr. Toad, reclusive Badger, and sensible Rat, so happy just “messing around in boats.” And here are the most treasured moments from THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS – Mole’s first enraptured row on the river, Toad’s irrepressible adventures in and out of automobiles, and many more. So gather ’round to read or listen, and, as Mole and Rat would heartily agree, a fine time will be had by all.

For Snuggles (age 7):

The Apostles Creed: What We Believe (Gloria Series)
(also available from Sacred Heart Books and Gifts)


Gloria Series Children’s Story Books 

Exquisite 30 page hardcover books filled with Fratelli Bonella artwork from Italy 5″ x 6″

The Life of St. Benedict 
Children and parents alike will be delighted by these stories and illustrations about the famous Saint Benedict. Based on his biography by Pope Saint Gregory the Great, and told by a Benedictine monk living today in Italy at the birthplace of Benedict, these stories and pictures are rich with interesting details. The holiness of Benedict, his wisdom, his great impact on the world, and his miracles will intrigue and inspire everyone in the family. Also included are stories involving his twin sister, Saint Scholastica.

Bilbo’s Last Song
Bilbo’s Last Song is considered by many to be Tolkien’s epilogue to his classic work The Lord of the Rings.


As Bilbo Baggins takes his final voyage to the Undying Lands, he must say goodbye to Middle-earth. Poignant and lyrical, the song is both a longing to set forth on his ultimate journey and a tender farewell to friends left behind. 

Pauline Baynes’s jewel-like illustrations lushly depict both this final voyage and scenes from The Hobbit, as Bilbo remembers his first journey while he prepares for his last.

The Chestry Oak
As he watches his homeland of Hungary being taken over and run by invaders from Nazi Germany, young Prince Michael of Chestry strives to retain his identity and integrity during one of the most dangerous seasons in human history. Michael carries an acorn all the way from his castle home in Chestry Valley to the warm soil of the Hudson Valley farm in the USA where he makes a new home after WWII. It is difficult to decide which are the most unforgettable; the scenes in Hungary, Michael’s proud, valiant father and his beloved Nana, or the friendly young GI and his family who take Michael to their hearts and make him their own. Perhaps the most compelling character of all is Midnight, the dancing black stallion, full of fire and beauty, and trained to perform before princes. Kate Seredy’s drawings make this a book to treasure.

 (pre-ordered – will be released on March 2, 2015) 

(Adding to our collection of Books One and Two in The Knights’ Tales Series)
In the third installment in the Knights’ Tales series, Gerald Morris tells the laugh-outloud tale of King Arthur’s most celebrated knight, and nephew, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. With lively illustrations by Aaron Renier, Morris creates a captivating and comical medieval world that teems with humor and wonder. This chapter book is sure to set young readers on another rollicking and hilarious Arthurian adventure!

Our First Communion with Brother John
(DVD – also available from Sacred Heart Books and Gifts)
In this unique presentation, young Catholic hearts and minds will encounter the Story of Creation, the Miracles of Jesus, the Last Supper, Confession, the Traditional Mass, and much more. Intended for children in the lower primary grades, included are some basic prayers, plus simple forms of the Act of Contrition and the Acts of Faith, Hope and Love, As Msgr. Kelly wrote in 1925, “Easy words and a little rhyme please a child; and when he knows what he is saying, his prayer is better said.”

older children.”

For Rose (age 5):

The Rosary: My Prayers to Jesus through Mary (Gloria Series) 
(also available from Sacred Heart Books and Gifts)

Gloria Series Children’s Story Books 

Exquisite 30 page hardcover books filled with Fratelli Bonella artwork from Italy 5″ x 6″

The Hail Mary: Our Mother in Heaven (Gloria Series)
(also available from Sacred Heart Books and Gifts)

Gloria Series Children’s Story Books 

Exquisite 30 page hardcover books filled with Fratelli Bonella artwork from Italy 5″ x 6″

The Little Children’s Prayer Book
(also available directly from St. Augustine Academy Press)
This is a newly typeset and illustrated edition of the classic 1911 title by Mother Mary Loyola. This little 4″ x 6″ pocket gem contains more than just daily prayers: Two different sets of meditations for the Mass and Mother Loyola’s uniquely appropriate examination of conscience for children make this book a must for the Catholic child. Gorgeous full-color illustrations throughout. This is the softcover edition; we also offer a hardcover edition at the St. Augustine Academy Press website.


Little Saint Therese Paper Doll Set
(available as a printed set and as a digital download in color or black and white)
This paper doll set is made of my original, hand-drawn illustrations and offers a glimpse into the childhood of Thérèse of Lisieux, who became known in her adulthood as “Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face,” and, simply, “The Little Flower.” With this set children can join Thérèse as she sews, paints, plays with her sisters and her pet dog, takes long walks with her beloved father, participates in a Eucharistic procession, dresses up as Saint Joan of Arc, and–on what she described as “the most important day of my life”–makes her First Holy Communion. Her First Holy Communion costume is based on the actual dress and veil she wore (which has been preserved in her family home in Lisieux). Her other costumes were are based on clothing for girls in the late 1880s. Each page includes captions for the costumes and accessories and a brief description of her family life.

A Doll for Marie

 This rediscovered gem, first published in the 1950s but long out of print, by Caldecott-winning illustrator Roger Duvoisin is perfect for a new generation of little girls who love dolls.

 In the city of Paris, a beautiful but lonely doll sits on a shelf in an antique shop. She’s surrounded by old vases and teapots, but longs for a friend to play with. There is one little girl who would dearly love to own the doll, but Marie could never afford such a precious item. So Marie has to settle for admiring the doll through the window on her way home from school. But Marie and this doll are clearly meant for one another, and Marie will make sure that the doll has a home where she is loved.  

 (pre-ordered – will be released on March 10, 2015) 

The Easter Story 
“A beautifully illustrated book that recounts the story of the first Easter from Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem to the resurrection, and emphasizes the message at its heart—that of God’s everlasting love. This retelling of the Easter story is both clear and detailed, explaining fully the message of God’s love in a way that children will be able to easily understand. The book follows this important episode from Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem right through to the resurrection. Giuliano Ferri’s illustrations are peaceful, gentle, and elegant, making this a sophisticated picture story book for older children.”

For Bud (age 3):

Exquisite 30 page hardcover books filled with Fratelli Bonella artwork from Italy 5″ x 6″

The Beautiful Story of the Bible
(also available from Ignatius Press)
Here are all the most important stories of the Bible, Old and New Testaments, with very expressive and gorgeous pictures, sure to delight young children from 3 years old and up. The Old Testament stories include Creation, Adam and Eve, Noah, David & Goliath, Moses and more. The New Testament stories include the whole story of the life and miracles of Jesus, and the lives of the Apostles and early Church, all presented in a wonderful way that shows God’s great love for mankind.

Noah’s Ark


When God tells Noah to build an ark to keep earth’s creatures safe during the coming mighty flood, Mrs. Noah and their sons all give him a hand. Scene by scene, six appealing 3-D pop-ups tell the story — building the Ark, gathering the animals, birds, and reptiles, weathering 40 days of rain, sending out a dove to look for land — and, in a splendid finale, the doors of the Ark open and the animals come out two by two!


The Rooster Struts

Originally published in 1963, this new board book edition was just released.


THE ROOSTER STRUTS . . . the bear shuffles . . . the worm wiggles . . . and the eagle soars! Recently unearthed in the Golden Books archives—and one of Richard Scarry’s most breathtaking books—it is the perfect first book about animals with its bold color, simple lines, and sturdy pages.

Don Quixote: A BabyLit® Spanish Language Primer
Another new addition to the BabyLit collection. 
BabyLit® is a fashionable way to introduce your toddler to the world of classic literature. With clever, simple text by Jennifer Adams, paired with stylish design and illustrations by Sugar’s Alison Oliver, these books are a must for every savvy parent’s nursery library.

(pre-ordered – will be released on March 1, 2015) 




On Easter Day in the Morning
(also available from Catholic Child)
If only every time a person heard the story of Christ rising on Easter Sunday their hearts were touched the way this book will touch yours. Children as young as 2 or 3 years old will be mesmerized by the rhythm of the narrative and captivated by the sweet, colorful illustrations, while older children of 5 or 6 will be able to easily appreciate the story of Jesus, the sadness His friends felt when He died, and their subsequent joy upon seeing Him rise again. On Easter Day in the Morning is a treasure, and a treat to read aloud. It’s a wonderful choice for gift-giving and is sure to become an instant family favorite.

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For YOU:
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 Catholic Child, Ignatius Press, St. Augustine Academy Press, Susan Peek, StellaMarigold Art, and Sacred Heart Books and Gifts for sponsoring these giveaways!

There will be one winner for each of the following 10 prizes: 

Prize #1 – The Way of the Cross for Children (DVD) and On Easter Day in the Morning sponsored by Catholic Child (value $30.90)


Prize #2 – The Beautiful Story of the Bible sponsored by Ignatius Press (value $19.99) 


Prize #4 – A Soldier Surrenders: The Conversion of St. Camillus de Lellis sponsored by author Susan Peek (value $17.95… this second revised edition will be released on March 14th! The original edition was included in our 2013 Baskets of Books for Easter) 

Prize #5 – The Life of Saint Benedict sponsored by Ignatius Press (value $16.99 – featured in New Additions to Our March Book Basket and this year’s Easter baskets!)


Prize #7 – Crusader King: A Novel of Baldwin IV and the Crusades sponsored by author Susan Peek (value $13.95 – featured in our 2013 Baskets of Books for Easter)

Prize #8 – Little Saint Therese Paper Doll Set sponsored by StellaMarigold Art (value $12.00) 


Prize #9 – Set of FOUR Gloria Series Books (includes: The Story of Mary, The Apostles Creed, The Our Father, and The Ten Commandments) sponsored by Sacred Heart Books and Gifts (value $12.00)
Prize #10 – The Rose Round sponsored by Shower of Roses (value $11.95)

Please enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter box below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

You can find links to all my other book lists here and our past Easter posts here.

Meet My New Sponsors

Mar 2, 2015 | | 1 Comment

I usually only share a sponsor update once every three months. However, I have some great new advertisers that arrived just a little too late to be included in February’s post. I’ve decided to introduce them to you now rather than wait until May.

Please welcome my new sponsors by visiting their websites:

Culture of Life Studies
I’m so excited about the brand new Life Is Precious Culture of Life Unit Study for Elementary Students from American Life League! I was sent a review copy, along with a set that I’ll be giving away here at Shower of Roses, but you can currently purchase this Unit Study at an awesome discount for a limited time! The program, which will help parents and teachers instill a solid pro-life foundation in their students, uses picture books to explore age-appropraite culture of life themes such as life as a preborn child, being uniquely created by God, the need to protect the innocent, and defending firmly held beliefs in the face of adversity.”

This brand new Etsy shop, consecrated to the Virgin Mary and Sacred Heart of Jesus, features beautiful religious art prints, cards and handcrafted wood prints designed by Sandra Lubreto Dettori! Custom orders are welcome. All items can be personalized for gifts like First Holy Communion, Confirmation, Anniversaries, etc.

10% of all sales will be donated to help Aid to the Church in Need!
Save 10% on any order with coupon code Discount10

Catholic Folk Toys 
As I mentioned in my last post, Tammy’s dolls were the very first hand-painted saint dolls available (at least that I knew of at the time) and were the ones that inspired me to paint my own set to use Along the Alphabet Path back in 2008. She has once again re-opened her shop and offering hand painted saint dolls and more. Custom orders are welcome!

Almond Rod Toys
Remember the darling Blessing Blocks I ordered for my children for St. Nicholas day? Almond Rod Toys has re-opened with even more saints and new sets for Easter as well!  These inspirational wooden blocks for kids and tots encourage prayerful play throughout the liturgical year. Play out bible scenes or befriend a saint. AlmondRod Toys are designed and made by a Catholic mother of 5 to help you raise up your own little saints. The shop periodically closes so be sure to buy gifts ahead of time while open.
“JMJ – I am Carrie, a Catholic home educating mother of 7. I have always liked holy cards and have quite a collection. A friend of mine had some lovely cards personalized for her daughter’s First Holy Communion many years ago and I remember thinking how lovely and unique they were. I wanted to have the same for my own children. All these years later and with the help of some friends, it became a hobby of mine to personalize these special Keepsakes and offer them to you. If there is an image you are looking for but don’t see it here in my Etsy shop, please contact me. Oftentimes I have them in-stock but haven’t listed them yet. I will happily do bulk orders. Please contact me for pricing. I look forward to creating a unique, lovely, long-lasting Keepsake for your special occasion.”


Before I go, I also wanted to mention that my dear friend Charlotte’s Etsy shop Waltzing Matilda Makes…  is open once again for a limited time with Saints N’ Stitches Embroidery Kits, just in time for Easter! I’ve already ordered a couple more for my girls.

 If you are interested in advertising at Shower of Roses click here for the current availability and to request more information. All advertising space has been filled for the February-April quarter. Thank you to all my advertisers and visitors for blessing our family in this way! 

New Additions to Our March Book Basket

Feb 28, 2015 | , | 5 Comments

It is time to start filling our book basket with books for March. As always, I love choosing one or two books to add to our family’s ever growing collection each month. 

I’m actually saving this first book for one of the boys’ Easter baskets, but with the feast of St. Benedict coming up on March 21st (as well as July 11th on the traditional calendar) I thought I would share it with you now. This brand new release from Ignatius Press on The Life of St. Benedict was written by Br. John McKenzie, O.S.B., a Benedictine monk from The Monks of Norcia in Norcia, Italy, the birthplace of St. Benedict. He made his solemn profession in 2009 and is currently studying theology in Rome. Br. John explains why he decided to write a children’s story about his order’s founder, saying, “The life of St. Benedict is filled with great imagery and authentic monastic wisdom. The Benedictine Monastic Life expands over 1,500 years of lived tradition and it has a home on all continents of the world! This book was simply put together so that families, most especially kids, can get a chance to understand the greatness and uniqueness of my holy founder, not to mention his twin sister St. Scholastic who also plays a central role in this book. In short, I wanted to show just how cool St. Benedict really is.” It looks like it is going to be a great addition to our collection!

The Life of St. Benedict 
(Also available directly from Ignatius Press.)
Children and parents alike will be delighted by these stories and illustrations about the famous Saint Benedict. Based on his biography by Pope Saint Gregory the Great, and told by a Benedictine monk living today in Italy at the birthplace of Benedict, these stories and pictures are rich with interesting details. The holiness of Benedict, his wisdom, his great impact on the world, and his miracles will intrigue and inspire everyone in the family. Also included are stories involving his twin sister, Saint Scholastica.

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After I finished reading aloud Their Hearts Are His Garden, I decided to move on to Jesus of Nazareth: The Story of His Life Written for Children by Mother Mary Loyola. We started reading this book on Ash Wednesday and, with just over 40 chapters, my plan is to read at least a chapter each day (or rather five chapters each week depending on our daily schedule) and finish it by Holy Saturday. I read chapters 6-10 to the children yesterday and everyone is really enjoying this beautiful story of the life of Our Lord!

(Also available directly from St. Augustine Academy Press.)

James Cardinal Gibbons was Archbishop of Baltimore when he asked Mother Loyola to write this story of the Life of our Lord. As a revered author himself, and considering the number of such stories available even then, we can only imagine the admiration he must have held for Mother Loyola’s rare talent for narrative. She does not disappoint in this story, for as always, she brings to life the most vivid images of our Lord, such that the children who read it will feel almost as if they were following the dusty paths our Saviour trod. Now enhanced with an abundance of contemporary engravings and lithographs, this newly typeset edition is an invaluable means of impressing upon the minds of young children the reality of our God become Man.

Who is Mother Mary Loyola? My first introduction to her was through her wonderful allegorical work, The King of the Golden City. You can read more about her at St. Augustine Academy Press and help spread her story by sharing their GoFundMe page here. St. Augustine Academy Press is currently offering rewards for various levels of donations. Please consider helping if you can!

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After skimming through Fiona’s Lace earlier this week at a local book store, I’ve been considering purchasing it to add to our collection of Irish themed picture books for March.  If not, I’ll at least check it out from our local library.

Fiona’s Lace 
An Irish family stays together with the help of Fiona’s talent for making one-of-a-kind lace in this heartwarming immigration story from the New York Times bestselling creator of The Keeping Quilt.
Many years ago, times were hard in all of Ireland, so when passage to America becomes available, Fiona and her family travel to Chicago. They find work in domestic service to pay back their passage, and at night Fiona turns tangles of thread into a fine, glorious lace. Then when the family is separated, it is the lace that Fiona’s parents follow to find her and her sister and bring the family back together. And it is the lace that will always provide Fiona with memories of Ireland and of her mother’s words: “In your heart your true home resides, and it will always be with you as long as you remember those you love.”



Speaking of Irish themes for the month of March, I was so excited to see that Catholic Folk Toys is back in business (!!!!!) and has a collection of Irish saints available for purchase including St. Patrick, St. Kilian, St. Brigid, and St. Abigail (St. Gobnait). Tammy’s dolls were the very first hand-painted saint dolls available (at least that I knew of at the time) and were the ones that inspired me to paint my own set to use Along the Alphabet Path back in 2008.  We have a lovely collection of saints from Catholic Folk Toys (including St. Patrick!) and I just ordered St. Brigid to add to a certain someone’s Easter basket, now that I know she is one of our daughter’s favorite saints. 

I’ll be back sometime in the next couple days with the list of books I choose for this year’s Easter Baskets, in addition to another basket of books I have to give away! In the meantime, you can find our complete list of books for the month of March here:

February Daybook

Feb 28, 2015 | , | 12 Comments

Outside my window…
We always seem to have at least one gorgeous week in February, so we made sure to soak up the sunshine before the rain clouds came back.

“Come on, Mom! SLIDE!!!”
I am thinking…
It hasn’t all been fun and sunshine this week… I’ve also been spending lots of time at doctors offices. Tuesday afternoon I had yet another appointment with my doctor (for more blood work and a biopsy – ouch!) and on Wednesday (in addition to barely being able to use my left arm) I took our seven year old to see the pediatrician since he’s had a lingering cough for the past four weeks. Thankfully it hasn’t dropped into his chest, but he does have an ear infection. Poor little guy! It was actually the first time I’ve had to take any of the kids to see our wonderful pediatrician in over a year and he kindly handed me the box of Kleenex as I gave him a little update on our family which included my last pregnancy and miscarriage. 

continued from Instagram… “Then, as we pulled back in the driveway, the van died… At least we made it back home before that happened. I’ll be calling the mechanic in the morning and trying to figure out how to get the girls to piano. sigh… I’m trying to offer up these extra little crosses without complaining but failing miserably. Lent has barely started and I’m so ready for Easter!”
I am thankful… 
We’ve been blessed with such an excellent pediatrician. He reminded me that it’s been nearly 15 years since he arrived in our area and our oldest son became one of his first patients! We’ll be seeing him a lot the next couple months since all the children are (over)due for well-child checkups.

I am also thankful that we have a great mechanic and it only cost $29.90 to fix the van, not $2990 like my sister thought when she looked at the receipt! Even though he needed the van all day, and no one else was available to take the girls to piano for me, my mom and sister dropped off my parents Jeep for us to use and it all ended up working out in the end. Whew!

Learning all the time…
I’m so excited about the brand new Life Is Precious Culture of Life Unit Study for Elementary Students from American Life League! I was sent a review copy, along with a set that I’ll be giving away here at Shower of Roses, but you can currently purchase this Unit Study at an awesome discount for a limited time!

The program, which will help parents and teachers instill a solid pro-life foundation in their students, uses some of our favorite picture books (including Angel in the Waters and Horton Hears A Who!) to explore age-appropraite culture of life themes such as life as a preborn child, being uniquely created by God, the need to protect the innocent, and defending firmly held beliefs in the face of adversity.” I’ll be starting Lesson 1 with my children soon!

Celebrating the liturgical year…
The children brought home Rice Bowls from our parish on Ash Wednesday and have been adding coins each day.

Bud loves to count the items for each day and place the corresponding number of pennies in his Rice Bowl! (Update: After reading the recent reports on CRS, we will be sending our “pennies” to a different charity this year.)

From the kitchen… 
Grilled Cheese & Roasted Red Pepper Sandwiches for lunch and Fish Tacos for dinner.

I am working on… 
finding ways to improve my health and making time to exercise at least a few days each week.

I am creating…
plans for Easter, along with two huge giveaways for all my dear online friends and visitors here at Shower of Roses.

I am going…
to my friend Ann-Marie’s baby shower tomorrow! Have you seen the new additions to her saint doll collection yet? She just added St. Joseph! He’s definitely going on my “wish list” for my little boys along with St. Gerard. Rose received St. Therese from her Christkindl for Christmas and she is so soft and sweet!

I am hoping…
to have a chance to reply to emails sometime this weekend. Once again I am so behind!

I am praying…
for many special intentions and for all those who have asked for prayers.

I am reading…
Jesus of Nazareth: The Story of His Life Written for Children by Mother Mary Loyola.

Chiquita loves to draw while I read-aloud. This week she was inspired by the front cover of our book!  

Pondering these words…
from Matthew Kelly’s The Rhythm of Life: Living Every Day with Passion and Purpose which my sister JoAnn shared on Facebook last week:
“Our spiritual needs have a tendency to change as the seasons of our lives change. Each of us has a unique spiritual journey. In different stages of the journey, we have different needs. And yet, there are some needs that are unchanging and necessary in all seasons of our lives- silence, solitude, and simplicity.”

I am listening…
Eric Carle: Around the Farm Play-A-Sound. Bud’s Godparents sent him this for his Barnyard Birthday last December and it is still one of his favorites. He has all the sounds memorized and loves flipping through the pages and testing himself. I’m pretty sure everyone else has in this house has all the sounds memorized too! 😉

Around the house…
I had to take a picture when I walked out to the family room and found Captain organizing Student Writing Intensive Writing Assignments!

Oh! That reminds me… IEW just released their new 2015 edition of Teaching Writing: Structure and Style. If you purchased a new copy of the 2000 edition sometime within the past 15 years they are offering an upgrade for only $30. I sent in the upgrade for mine this past week! 
One of my favorite things…  
I love watching Bud play with his older brother’s Perplexus Ball… He’s so good! I’m going to have to try and upload a video sometime to share. I also love that it keeps him entertained for hours! 😉

This weekend’s plans…
Hockey Games, Baby Shower, and a Latin Mass… We were able to find a priest to travel and offer Mass this Sunday night, on a one-time trial basis!

A little peek at my day…

I know we really need the rain, but it’d sure be nice if it’d stay outside.  Yep, another leak.
When it rains it pours. 🙂

    Easter at Ephesus :: Another Brand New Release from the Benedictines of Mary, Queen of Apostles {and a “Win It Before You Can Buy It” Giveaway!}

    Feb 23, 2015 | , , | 78 Comments

    “Jesus said to her: I am the resurrection and the life: he that believeth in me, although he be dead, shall live” (John 11:25)

    The Benedictines of Mary share with us a glimpse of their community life for one of their most joyous occasions: Easter. The cheer and delight of the Resurrection of Our Lord is woven in the hymns and polyphonic chants in Easter at Ephesus. This jewel of sacred music provides peace and comfort as the angelic harmonies of Easter transport the listener to the delight of the Resurrection: “For if we believe that Jesus died, and rose again; even so them who have slept through Jesus, will God bring with him.” (1 Thess. 4:14). Get your copy today and recall the liturgical joy awaiting those who hope in the world to come.

    Today I have the privilege of being able to offer my visitors here at Shower of Roses a chance to WIN a copy of Easter at Ephesus before you can buy it! The giveaway is only open through Friday and the winner will be announced in this post and contacted by email on Saturday, February 28th. 

    Please help spread the word about this inspiring new album and enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter box below:

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    Easter at Ephesus is available from Amazon and you can also order it directly from the sisters here. 

    Easter at Ephesus will be released on March 3rd but we can help support the sisters by pre-ordering a copy today!


    Our Family

    Sean & Jessica, Captain-24, Ranger-22, Twinkle Toes-21, Chiquita-19, Snuggles-17, Rose-14, Bud-12, 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.

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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-22, Twinkle Toes-21, Chiquita-19, Snuggles-17, Rose-14, Bud-12, 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 Pre-reading
    All About Reading Giveaways
    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Our Advent & Christmas Books

    Shower of Roses Christmas Gift Guides

    Looking for Something?

    looking-back

    • ▼2024 (20)
    • ►2023 (30)
    • ►2022 (48)
    • ►2021 (48)
    • ►2020 (57)
    • ►2019 (61)
    • ►2018 (90)
    • ►2017 (128)
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    • ►2015 (172)
    • ►2014 (227)
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    • ►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!