Stamped Shortbread Cookies (AIP, Paleo, Vegan)

by | Dec 14, 2018 | , , , , , | 7 Comments

My girls made sure I had treats for the feasts of St. Nick and St. Lucy too. It IS possible to make gluten-free, grain-free, egg-free, dairy-free, sugar-free shortbread cookies! This is the second year they have made them for me and they are such a nice little treat along with a cup of tea. 

Stamped Shortbread Cookies
(Paleo, AIP, Vegan)

Ingredients:

  • ½ c Coconut Flour
  • 2 tbsp. Arrowroot Flour
  • Pinch of Sea Salt
  • ½ c melted Palm Shortening
  • 2 tbsp. Maple Syrup
  • ½ tsp alcohol-free Vanilla Extract
  • 4 tbsp. Water

Instructions:

  1. Set oven to 325 degrees.
  2. In a medium bowl sift together the coconut flour, arrowroot flour, and pinch of salt.
  3. Make a well in the center and add the melted palm oil, maple syrup, and vanilla. Stir thoroughly. Add the water and continue to stir until you have a nice dough. The mixture will continue to thicken after the water is added. 
  4. Roll into one-inch balls, and place on uncreased cookie sheet. 
  5. Stamp with cookie stamp. (Tips for using stamps can be found here.)
  6. Bake at 325 for 15 minutes, until lightly golden on edges. 
  7. Allow the cookies to cool for 10-15 minutes before removing from the baking sheet. 
  8. Enjoy! 

We have quite a few Rycraft Cookie Stamps including the cookie stamps featured in this post:

If you have a favorite AIP cookie recipe, please share! 

2018 Christmas Gift Ideas & Stocking Stuffers {Plus Another Sleighful of Giveaways}

by | Nov 27, 2018 | , | 0 Comments

It’s time for this year’s list of “Christmas Gift Ideas” and another “Sleighful of Giveaways” from my amazing and generous sponsors! Despite our big move last month, I somehow managed to pull it together at the last minute with some help from my children!! Now I need to get back to unpacking and find the rest of our Advent boxes… We are all looking forward to Advent and Christmas in our new home and parish!

 You can find the lists from the last three years here, here and here, as well as even more Catholic gift ideas listed in my past Easter posts as well: 100+ Easter Basket Stuffers & Catholic Gift Ideas and Easter Symbols: Catholic Gift Ideas. Some of the items below have been featured in the past but they are still favorites.

Be sure to scroll all the way to the bottom to enter the giveaway for a chance to win one of 25 PRIZES, from my generous sponsors here at Shower of Roses, with a combined value of over $1,800! Please keep these Catholic businesses in mind when shopping for gifts this Christmas season! 

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

.: Fun New Finds for Advent and Christmas 2018 :.
  1. Drinking with St. Nick: Christmas Cocktails for Sinners and Saints from the author of Drinking with the Saints: The Sinner’s Guide to a Holy Happy Hour – I don’t drink but I enjoy reading these books! 
  2. The Holy Family Nativity Play Set from Shining Light Dolls – Love the expecting Blessed Mother! Perfect for Advent!
  3. Our Lady of Guadalupe: The Graphic Novel – Also available directly from TAN. 
  4. LEGO Advent Wreath – My boys have all the LEGO they would need to make this on their own, but fun idea! 
  5. Around the Year with the Von Trapp Family – I have a treasured vintage out of print copy of this book and am so happy to see it back in print! I pre-ordered a copy of it to give my oldest daughter back in September… but I forgot to change the shipping address and it’s sitting on my porch back in Oregon. 
  6. My Jesse Tree Sticker Set – This looks fun! 
  7. Celebrating a Merry Catholic Christmas: A Guide to the Customs and Feast Days of Advent and Christmas – Haven’t seen this in person yet but it looks great! 
  8. Nativity Tea Light Candle Lantern – I bought this last Christmas but I don’t think I ever shared it here on the blog. 
  9. The Bible Story from St. Augustine Academy Press (Also available on Amazon here) – This would make an excellent addition to the Jesse Tree. 
.: Some Favorite Advent and Christmas Music :. 


** Some of these have unlimited free streaming included with Prime on Amazon! **
  1. Advent at Ephesus
  2. Adventus 
  3. Legends of St. Nicholas
  4. Caroling at Ephesus
  5. Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring: Christmas with The Dominican Sisters of Mary
  6. Catholic Songs for Children – includes: Gather Round the Crib at Christmas and The Best Christmas Present of All
.: Favorites for the Feast of St. Nicholas :. 
  1. St. Nicholas with Moveable Arms from Ostheimer – Plus Free Printable St. Nicholas gift Tags in the archives! You can find him from Bella Luna and The Wooden Wagon. This is another version.  
  2. Saint Nicholas Cookie Stamp from Rycraft
  3. St. Nicholas and the Nine Gold Coins – Review can be found here. Plus decorate your own St. Nicholas Chocolate Coins with this free printable. 
  4. TruSweets Organic Candy Canes – One of our children is allergic to Red 40. Love that theses are made without food coloring! I bought a couple boxes from Thrive last year. If you don’t have a Thrive membership, here’s my referral link to save you 20%. You can also find them at Natural Grocers. 
  5. The Bakers Dozen – and recipe for cookies in the archives! Unlike the candy canes, these were unfortunately not Red 40 free… 
  6. St. Nicholas Shining Light Doll – picture from our snowy 2013 celebration!
  7. St. Nicholas Statue
  8. St. Nicholas Block from Almond Rod Toys
  9. The Miracle of St. Nicholas

.: Favorites for the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe :.


  1. Mañanitas CD or MP3 from Casa Maria/Sister Servants
  2. Our Lady of Guadalupe and Our Lady of Guadalupe Pop-Up Book – More pictures can be found here. 
  3. Our Lady of Guadalupe from Prayer Pillowcases
  4. Cloak of Roses – Our Lady of Guadalupe from Regina Martryum Productions
  5. Our Lady of Guadalupe and Crown from The Little Habit – You can enter to win this below! 
  6. The Story of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Empress of the Americas
  7. Juan Diego: Messenger of Guadalupe DVD
  8. Our Lady of Guadalupe from Almond Rod Toys
  9. Our Lady of Guadalupe from Shining Light Dolls
We also love the Our Lady of Guadalupe Puzzle, if you can find it, 
and we usually celebrate with an Our Lady of Guadalupe Brunch or Dinner!
.: Favorites for Santa Lucia Day :.
  1. Santa Lucia Girl from Armadillo Dreams
  2. Baby Lucia Crown and Attendants Candle 
  3. Lucia Morning in Sweden
  4. St. Lucia 8×10 Print from Sleightholm Folk Art
  5. Lucia Crown for Real Candles
  6. Lucia Mug with Song – Such a cute mug! It’s no longer available from where I purchased it, but I just found it online here. 
  7. Saint Lucia Dress & Wreath from The Little Habit (also pictured are the discontinued American Girl doll outfits and accessories as well. I found them on eBay years ago.) 
  8. Lucia Cookie Stamp from Rycraft
  9. NEW this year: Saint Lucy from Shining Light Dolls 
I couldn’t fit everything above! Here are some more great items to check out:
  1. Lucia Saint of Light
  2. St. Lucy from Naturally Catholic
  3. Saint Lucy from Tiny Saints
  4. Starboy Hat and Star Set
  5. Saint Lucy Articulated Paper Doll in Color from Stella Marigold Art
.: Favorite Advent and Christmas Puzzles :.
Our family loves putting together puzzles during Advent and Christmas. 
Here are some past favorites that are still available to purchase: 
  1. The Invitation (Noah’s Ark – perfect for with Jesse Tree) – more pictures in the archives
  2. All Will Adore Him Jigsaw Puzzle – similar to this one in the archives
  3. Glorious Nativity Jigsaw Puzzle  – more pictures in the archives
  4. Stained Glass Holy Night Jigsaw Puzzle 
  5. Forest Nativity Shaped Jigsaw Puzzle 
  6. Holy Family Jigsaw Puzzle 
  7. Heaven on Earth Jigsaw Puzzle 
  8. Stained Glass Nativity Jigsaw Puzzle 
  9. Midnight Mass
.: Favorite Nativity Sets :.
These are some of the nativity sets our family has collected over the years.
  1. Kurt Adler Wooden Nativity Advent Calendar with 24 Magnetic Figures
  2. Playmobil Nativity (we have an older style)
  3. Nativity Fabric Advent Calendar
  4. Mary on Donkey and Joseph Walking
  5. Wooden 5-Piece Nativity scene Puzzle
  6. Ostheimer MINI Nativity – I purchased some of the pieces during a sale last year and plan to add a few more to our collection this year. 
  7. Childrens Nativity Blocks Starter Set and Deluxe Wooden Nativity Set from Almond Rod Toy
  8. Ostheimer Nativity Set Full Size – This was a gift last year and I look forward to adding to the collection one or two pieces at a time. Available from Bella Luna. 
  9. A Child Is Born, Three Kings, and Shepherds and Sheep from Naturally Catholic
Brand new Nativity Set from Shining Light Dolls – I think this will become a favorite too! 



As I mentioned above, our children helped again with this year’s “Christmas Gift Ideas” post. I had them each list nine gift ideas for me to share with you all. Here are their answers:

Please note: In addition to their stockings, our children usually unwrap three gifts from my husband and I on Christmas morning – something they need, something they want, and one other gift which is usually faith based. We draw names on the first Sunday of Advent for Christkindl and end with a family Christkindl gift exchange. It’s always the first thing they want to do after our morning prayers (or morning Mass if we didn’t make it to the Midnight Mass) on Christmas Day! They also receive a stack of books either on Christmas or Epiphany. The gifts listed below have been received over a number of different years/occasions.


.: Captain’s Picks – Age 18 :.
  1. The Shadow of His Wings: The True Story of Fr. Gereon Goldmann, OFM – Still a favorite.
  2. Gift Cards – Like food/snacks, gift cards are always a great gift for teens. 
  3. St. Maximilian Kolbe Quote Mug
  4. T-Shirts (He got this Prancing Pony T-Shirt in his Easter Basket this year.)  
  5. Liturgy of the Hours
  6. Fun Ties: He loves his Star Wars Line Drawing Tie and Irish Flag Tie
  7. Star Wars Catch Phrase – Played at friend’s home. Very fun! 
  8. MacBook with Captain America Shield Decal
  9. Chips and Playing Cards Poker – Hearth And Hand
.: Ranger’s Picks – Age 16 :.
  1. Wish List: LEGO Creator Expert Downtown Diner – The Detective’s Office is definitely his favorite out of all the Modular sets, but this one is at the top of his wishlist. He also loves Architecture and Creator sets. 
  2. Spikeball – We don’t own this the boys had a blast playing it with their soccer team in Oregon! My mom let me know that she is planning on giving it to them this year! shhhh! 
  3. 7 Wonders – A bit of a learning curve to play, but fun! 
  4. Video Drone AP – This gift from Uncle Brian and Aunt Meagan last Christmas was a hit!
  5. Ranger’s Apprentice Books and The Brotherband Chronicles (Always a suggestion from one of my boys… He’ll be receiving the brand new release of The Red Fox Clan. Shhhh!) 
  6. Sushi Go! – The Pick and Pass Card Game
  7. Wish List: MacBook (Our oldest son received one for his 18th birthday last summer. Our 16 year old is a senior this year too and we’ll most likely get him one for his 17th birthday or as a graduation gift. Can’t believe they will both be headed to college next year!) 
  8. North Face Men’s Inlux Insulated Jacket – found this on clearance last year and it’s now his favorite. Basically clothing is always a hit with my teens! 
  9. Taylor Made Spider Putter  – He saved up and bought this putter for himself last golf season. 
.: Twinkle Toes’ Picks – Age 15 :.
  1. Emily Books: Emily of New Moon, Emily Climbs, and Emily’s Quest
  2. St. Joan of Arc T-Shirt from Catholic T-Shirt Club – The boys enjoyed this subscription for awhile and then I changed it to a size S subscription for the girls to build up their collection of Catholic T-Shirts. Such a fun club! 
  3. Floral Coffee Mug
  4. Little Secrets All Natural Chocolate Candy
  5. Montana Emu Ranch Lip Balm – Finally something that works!
  6. Wish List: When Calls the Heart Christmas Special and Complete Season 5 – She already has and loves When Calls the Heart Year 4 DVDs (She has the Collector’s Editions of Season 1, Season 2, Season 3, and Season 4. 
  7. Coach Satchel – Watch for sales on this… I paid less than $100. 
  8. Long Sleeve Floral Casual Swing Pleated T-Shirt Dress with Pockets 
  9. Custom Book Blanket from Sweet Sequels with all of her favorites!
.: Chiquita’s Picks – Age 13 :.
  1. St. Philomena Outfit for 18″ Doll from The Little Habit
  2. The Green Ember Books
  3. Into the Wardrobe Book Blanket from Sweet Sequels
  4. Wingspan Optics Spectator 8X32 Compact Binoculars for Bird Watching
  5. Hand-embroidered Scapular from StellaMarigoldArt – She and her sister received these years ago and after wearing them daily (including camping/swimming in them during the summer) they are starting to wear out. 
  6. Kipling Sebastian Crossbody Bag 
  7. Lisieux Nail Polish
  8. Kindle Paperwhite with Leather Case and Vera Bradley E-Reader Sleeve in Northern Lights to match her Backpack (great sales directly from Vera Bradley) 
  9. St. Clare of Assisi Quote Mug (from this year’s Easter Basket) 
.: Snuggles’ Picks – Age 11 :.
  1. Mines of Moria: We Dwarf the Competition T-Shirt (to go along with his favorite book: The Hobbit: Illustrated Edition)
  2. The Wingfeather Saga: On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness, North! Or Be Eaten, The Monster in the Hollows, The Warden and the Wolf King 
  3. Sting Sword 
  4. Snap Circuits Extreme (All the Snap Circuits sets are great!) 
  5. Custom Hobbit/Lord of the Rings Book Blanket from Sweet Sequels
  6. LEGO Creator Sets and City Sets (On his last birthday he loved the LEGO Pickup and Caravan from Grandpa and Grandma.)
  7. The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Game
  8. Singtrix Party Bundle Karaoke System
  9. Flag Football (I am not sure what set my husband picked out from Dick’s last Christmas, but the Flag Football has been a hit with all the kids this past year.) 
.: Rose’s Picks – Age 8 :.
  1. St. Joan of Arc Paper Dolls – available from Sacred Heart Books and Gifts
  2. Lunch Basket with Liner from Bella Luna Toys 
  3. Ostheimer Goose Girl with Geese – I purchased them from The Wooden Wagon
  4. Jellycat Twinkle Bunny
  5. Little House on the Prairie Audio CDs
  6. Adventures of Nathaniel B. Oakes and Never Squeeze a Honeybee! The Continuing Adventure of Nathaniel B. Oakes
  7. Little Women Blanket from Sweet Sequels 
  8. Calico Critters – These have been favorites for many years and are always on the list of favorites for all the girls. She loves her Kangaroo family! 
  9. Pride and Prejudice Seek and Find
.: Bud’s Picks – Age 6 :.
In addition to our collection of Lincoln Logs, Playmobil, Thomas Wooden Railway, and LEGO, here are some more favorite toys that Bud loves and I would buy again… He still LOVES his Red Fox too!
  1. “I want a Hippopotamus for Christmas…” – Last Christmas he got a Hippopotamus and this year the Baby Hippo is at the top of his wish list. Ostheimer Noah’s Ark, Figures, and Animals have been past gifts and they are played with daily. I plan to add the Baby Hippo to his collection this year and maybe a few others. Like all handcrafted wooden toys, these are an investment, but they are so beautiful and definitely heirloom quality. I always watch for sales from Bella Luna Toys and The Wooden Wagon. 
  2. Franklin Sports NHL Mini Hockey Goal Set of 2
  3. Fagus Tipper Truck (Available Fagus Toys from Amazon and The Wooden Wagon)
  4. Interlocking Wooden Blocks from Nova Natural … “Can I play with these now?! You can make all sorts of stuff with them!” 
  5. The Biggest Bear … “It’s awesome.” 
  6. Cash Register from Nova Natural … “It dings and it has real paper!” 
  7. Red Fox – This one was on last year’s list, but he still loves his Wild Republic Red Fox from his godparents. All of the Wild Republic stuffed animals are great. 
  8. St. Thomas Becket Soft Linen Doll – I bought this last year and forgot to give it to him. It will be one of his gifts this year. 
  9. Sequence for Kids … “Most of the games we play are boring…. but this one IS NOT!” 
.: Grace’s Picks – Age 1 :.
  1. Extra Large 12-Piece Rainbow Tunnel
  2. Hape Mr. Tambourine Kid’s Wooden Instrument 
  3. Ostheimer Wooden Animals – She loves these too and will often be seen carrying around the Mama and Baby Giraffes. They are her favorite. 
  4. 100% Pro-Life Onesie and Jellycat Stuffed Animals – She has this Bashful Bunny in Tulip Pink and Cream, Lamb, Black and White Cat, and Fuddlewuddle Monkey
  5. Baby Baby Signing Time
  6. All Natural Tnee’s Tee from her Wild One Birthday – Available direct on their website. 
  7. Idaho State Wooden Baby Rattle from Bannor Toys – I got her the Oregon Rattle last year (with Black and Orange Beads – Go Beavs!) and now we need to get her the Idaho Rattle too! 
  8. Shining Light Dolls
  9. Hydro Flask Sippy
  10. She still loves her Rosary from Chews Life too! 
.: A Few of My Favorite Things :.
.: 2019 Catholic Calendars and Planners :.
  1. 2019 Traditional Latin Mass Calendar from FSSP (Extraordinary Form) 
  2. 2019 Catholic Calendar from Saints Galore (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form) 
  3. 2019 A Nun’s Life Wall Calendar from TAN (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form)
  4. 2019 Saints Calendar and 16 Month Daily Planner from TAN (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form -My husband and I both use this every year!)
  5. The Catholic Daily Planner™ from Michele Quigley (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form)
  6. Blessed Is She 2019 Calendar YEARLY Planner (Ordinary Form)
  7. 2019 The Life of Our Lord Wall Calendar from TAN (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form)
  8. 2019 Defending Christendom Wall Calendar from TAN (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form)
  9. 2019 Mary and the Saints Wall Calendar from TAN (Ordinary Form + Extraordinary Form)
.: A Sleighful of Giveaways :.

There will be one winner for each of the following 25 PRIZES from many of my generous sponsors here at Shower of Roses with a COMBINED VALUE OF OVER $1,800!!! 
Prize #1 – Chews Life Rosary featuring brand new Miraculous Medal designed by Providential Co, A Little One Chews Life Decade Rosary, Lupita Mama Necklace, and Our Lady of Loreto Rosary Bracelet sponsored by Chews Life. Winner will be free to mix and match colors! (value $125, including s/h)

Congratulations, Trisha! 
“Wow! What a great giveaway!! Sure would be helpful to be a winner. “
+  +  +

Prize #2 – $50 Gift Certificate for Custom Missal & Breviary Covers, Rosary/Pray Together Apron, and Catholic Cuisine Apron sponsored by MissalCovers.com (value $110.00)

Congratulations, Rebecca B! 
“I always love coming to your blog for ideas! Thank you! And I want an apron!! 🙂 “
+  +  +

Prize #3 – Set of 8 Cookie Stamps with Recipe Booklet (Includes: #416 – Snow Star, #463 – Christmas Ornament, #020 – Frosty, #034-18 – Heralding Angels, #023 – Holly Sprig (1), #030 – Christmas Tree, # 368 – Nativity and #271 – Jolly Santa) sponsored by Rycraft Cookie Stamps (value $103.92)

Congratulations, Nadine!
“Thank you so much for your hard work in compiling all of this! We would love prize #3,5,17.”
+  +  +

Prize #4 – Black Stone Cross Necklace, Pray More, Worry Less Artisan Jumbo Mug, Be Still & Know Navy Tshirt and Faith, Hope, Love Canvas Pillow sponsored by Grace & Grit Design Co. (value $100.00)

SAVE 15% off any product through Dec. 31, 2018 
with coupon code: XMASROSE

Congratulations, Beth!
“Jessica, What lovely gifts! My favorites are the Grace & Grit set, st. therese rose earrings, almond rod blocks, sleightholm folk art, chews life rosary, cookie stamps, illuminated rosary book, and saintcards mega set. Thanks also for all the other great ideas selected by you and your children. Have a blessed advent!”
+  +  +

Prize #5 – Set of Six Audiobook CD Sets Including A Christmas Carol, The Adventures of Buster Bear, Angel Food Series: For Heaven’s Sake, Anne of Green Gables, Just Stories: The Kind That Never Grow Old and Tales Of King Arthur And The Round Table sponsored by St. Clare Audio (value $94.70)

Congratulations, Laura!
“Love all of the Catholic resources, especially the ones for children and young adults (saint cards, catholic books and nursery rhymes/audiobooks, chews rosary, missal cover, Jesse tree ornaments, Rosary hardcover book, and the OLO Guadalupe doll). Love your blog and Instagram page. You are so resourceful and have so many great Catholic Tradition ideas to help sanctity each liturgy season and feast in the home. God bless you!”
+  +  +

Prize #6 – The Complete Illuminated Rosary Hardcover Edition sponsored by Peanut Butter & Grace (value $83.95)

Congratulations, Elizabeth!
“I would absolutely love to win! Wonderful prizes!”
+  +  +

Prize #7 – Floressa Complete Set including: Small Flexi Clip, Bobby Pins, Earrings and a Necklace sponsored by Christine at Lilla Rose (value $90.00)

Congratulations, Genevieve!
“This is incredible!!! Everything is lovely! A favorite? The missal cover, or Lilla Rose, or the Heirloom seeds or…seriously! Thank you for the opportunity! Have a happy Advent!”
+  +  +

Prizes #8 – Scapular Kit, Miraculous Medal Necklace, Rosary, Rosary Bracelet, and Hand Painted Rosary Box (these last three items are all one of a kind and can be found in shop when available) sponsored by Saong Jai (value $83.00)

Congratulations, Mary!
“I absolutely love your blog and return to this happy place on a weekly basis just to get inspiration and ideas! I have four small boys and we homeschool here. Thank you for all of your work – sharing your world with us. And thank you to all of your sponsors who help keep your blog going!”
+  +  +
Prize #9 –Large Family Heirloom Seed Collection sponsored by St. Clare Heirloom Seeds (value $79.99)

Congratulations, Josephine!
“Wonderful post! Such great gift ideas! My favorites are #2,8,9 & 11”
+  +  +
Prize #10 – Catholic Nursery Rhymes, A Child’s Garden of Religion Stories, Wonder Stories of God’s People, Heroes of God’s Church and A Child’s True Story of Jesus sponsored by St. Augustine Academy Press (value $79.05) 
Congratulations, Gian!
“I would be happy to win just about any of these but the books from St. Augustine Press and the almondrod wood block nativity prizes are a couple favorites.”
+  +  +

Prize #11 – 1 year subscription to The Wanderlust Catholic! Each month, your family will receive a hand-lettered and illustrated letter exploring a Catholic treasure! (value $72.00)

Shower of Roses readers can always save 15% off the first 3 months of their subscription with coupon code: SHOWEROFROSES15

Congratulations, Katie!

“I’d love to find out more about #11 and we’d love the saint cards/#13. 

Thanks for hosting this huge give-a-way!”

+  +  +

Prize #12 – Set of two 100% Pro-Life Sweatshirts (you choose color and size) sponsored by Culture of Life Studies Program (value $70.00)

Shower of Roses readers can always save 20% off their entire order using the code: ROSES20

Congratulations, Valerie!

“So many great things! My favorites would have to be the heirloom seeds, the prolife sweatshirts, and the cookie presses.”

+  +  +
Prize #13 – SaintCards: Mega Set (Base Set + Doctors Expansion + Holy Helpers Expansion) sponsored by Saint Cards (value $69.99)

Congratulations, Sara M!
“I would love to win one of these prizes: Prize #4, Prize #13, Prize #7, Prize #16, Prize #24, Prize #25, Prize #17, Prizes #8, Prize #9”
+  +  +

Prize #14 – Little Girls Christmas Nativity Print Cotton Raglan Top with Ruffle Capris sponsored by Paradise Jewelry and Natalie the Nativity Angel sponsored by Trendzilly (value $63.00)

Use Coupon Code: ROSES15 to save 15% at Paradise Jewelry

Congratulations, Mindy!
“So many favorites, difficult to choose any one or few. With my six children any of them would be so wonderful! Thank you for opportunity to enter this giveaway and for putting this together. I love reading your blog, keep it up. God bless you this Advent season.”
+  +  +

Prize #15 – Set of 5 December Saint Blocks and Nativity Blocks Started Set sponsored by Almond Rod Toys (value $60.00)

Congratulations, Sarah O! 
“Always excited about AlmondRod Toys and seeing what new saints she’s creating!”
+  +  +

Prize #16 – Set of 4 Faith-filled teen novels including The Perfect Blindside, An Unexpected Role, Where You Lead and Secrets: Visible and Invisible from author Leslea Wahl (value $58.52) 

Congratulations, Jen!
“Prize #2 is definitely my favorite. Runners up are 16, 2, 19, 17, and 9. Thank you for all of the work you put in to put this list together! There are many great ideas here!”
+  +  +
Congratulations, Jennifer F!
“Thank you for putting this together in the midst of your move. I know how hard moving can be, physically and emotionally. I love looking at these every year.”
+ + +
Prize #18 – 4 Color-Me Prayer Pillowcase designs: Prince of Peace, Happy Birthday Jesus Nativity, The 3 Kings with Scripture & Prayer and Jesus is the Reason Nativity. Your family can color their way through advent while keeping hearts set on the Reason for the Season! Use your favorite fabric pens or paint to complete these limited edition Christmas Prayer Pillowcases sponsored by Joseph & Leane at PrayerPillowcases.com (value $55.00) 
Free Personalization on any pillowcase now through December 5th, 2018 with coupon code: NameMe18


Congratulations, Lilyan!
“I would be so thrilled to win any of the prizes, but especially the missal cover, my dear hubby would love it!”
+  +  +

Prize #19 – A Visit from St. Nicholas, Forest Lucia and Woodland Madonna 8×10 prints sponsored by Sleightholm Folk Art (value $54.00)

Congratulations, Martha!
“I love all of the gift picks by the kids. I must say that prize # 19 and prize #21 are my top picks of prizes mostly because I don’t have any religious earrings and they are beautiful and also because I love folk art with a passion and love drawing my own.”
 +  +  +
Congratulations, Christine!
“How generous! May God bless you!”
+  +  +
Prize #21 – St. Therese Rose Earrings and St. Francis Bird Earrings sponsored by Gail’s Designs (value $53.00)  

FREE SHIPPING through December 24, 2018 
with coupon code: MARY18 

Congratulations, Izabela!

“Love reading you different blog posts, and we will miss you in Oregon! I’m loving the earrings :)”

+  +  +
Prize #22 – Set of 5 Blessed Mother Bows: Our Lady of Guadalupe, Our Lady of Fatima, Our Lady of Knock, Our Lady of the Rosary, and Miraculous Medal sponsored by Hair Bows 4 Life (value $50.00) 

Free Shipping and 20% off on any order over $15 using code: Roses2018

Congratulations, Holly!
“Would love the chance to win the almond rod saint blocks!” 
+ + +
Prize #23 – Jesse Tree One of Everything, Bible Characters Stickers, and Saint Stickers sponsored by My Catholic Kids  ($50.00)
Congratulations, Nicole E!
“I love your list of ideas!!! Thank you so much for putting this together”
+ + +
Prize #24 and Prize #25 – $50 Gift Certificate sponsored by Regina Martyrum Productions  (two winners, value $50.00 each)
Congratulations, Rebecca M!

“Amazing giveaways! Always a fun time, and a blessing to see what you have going on each year.”

Congratulations, Catherine B!
“Thank you for the lists! Many of my kids’ genders and ages match with yours.”
+  +  +

Please enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter box below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Our 2018 Advent Book Basket and Printable Labels {Plus Lots of Christmas Books to Giveaway!}

by | Nov 19, 2018 | , , | 0 Comments

Advent begins in just two weeks! Advent always varies in length from 22-28 days, beginning with the Sunday nearest to the feast of St. Andrew the Apostle (November 30th) and embracing four Sundays. The first day of Advent can fall as early as November 27th or as late as December 3rd. This year Advent begins on December 2nd. 
Years ago, when we didn’t have enough Christmas themed picture books to wrap one for each day of Advent, I would check some Christmas books out from the library just before Advent began, using Christmas Mosaic as a guide. We have added many books to our home library since then, giving one Christmas themed book to each of our children on the feast of St. Nicholas, and our collection has definitely grown.  (You can find this year’s picks here!) 
In the past I have filled our basket with Christmas Mosaic titles and our children’s 35 Favorite Christmas Picture Books. One year I picked twenty-six of MY favorites (although I still find new favorites to add to my list each year!) to wrap up and one year I left the choosing up to my husband and our oldest daughter. 
I really loved the collection we read last year and this year I had a really hard time choosing new books to wrap up and read instead… I tried my best, but there are still a few that make the list nearly every year including The Donkey’s Dream, The Miracle of St. Nicholas and Bambinelli Sunday. 
I did include a few books (In the Candles Glow for the feast of St. Ambrose, An Alphabet of the Altar for the O Sapientia Antiphon, and The Three Trees for the O Radix Jesse Antiphon) that we don’t keep with our Christmas book collection, but they tied in nicely for the theme of that particular day of Advent so I added them to read aloud this year. 
I don’t have a copy of the brand new Our Lady of Guadalupe Graphic Novel, but if TAN Books has a great sale later this week I plan to order a copy and wrap that up for the upcoming feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe next month. Otherwise I’ll wrap up one of our other favorites. 
About four or five years ago I switched to brown paper, instead of the purple and pink wrapping paper, along with purple and pink ribbon (which I save to reuse each year) and homemade labels for each day. I haven’t been able to find the box with my wrapping supplies yet though following our move… I need to keep looking so I can get these books wrapped and ready! Advent is coming up fast. 

If you’d like to use my little labels too, you can download my Advent Book Basket Labels for 2018 over at Dropbox.
As always, we’ll unwrap and read one book each night during Advent, following our family rosary. The rest of the books will be placed in additional baskets for the kids to read whenever they’d like during the seasons of Advent and Christmas. 
Here are the 23 picture books that I am wrapping up for our 2018 Advent Book Basket:
December 2 – 1st Sunday of Advent: The Way to Bethlehem
December 5: The Baker’s Dozen  – write letters to Christ Child/Saint Nicholas, bake Speculaas or St. Nicholas Cookies, and decorate St. Nicholas Chocolate Coins to give to others
December 6 – St. Nicholas: The Miracle of St. Nicholas 
December 7 – St. Ambrose: In the Candles Glow – Honeycomb Cake, decorate Christmas Candles
December 8 – Immaculate Conception: The Donkey’s Dream *Catholic Mosaic – pray Litany of Mary from which the names of Mary used in this book were taken 
December 9 – 2nd Sunday of Advent: The Gospel Told by the Animals 
December 11: The Little Fir Tree
December 12 – Our Lady of Guadalupe 
December 13 – Santa Lucia Day: Lucia Morning in Sweden
December 14: The Huron Carol
December 15: Too Many Tamales 
December 16 – 3rd Sunday of Advent/Gaudete Sunday: Bambinelli Sunday
December 17 – O Sapientia: An Alphabet of the Altar
December 18 – O Adonai: An Ellis Island Christmas 
December 19 – O Radix Jesse: The Three Trees
December 20 – O Clavis David: Silent Night
December 21 – O Oriens: Little Star
December 22 – O Rex Gentium: Twas the Evening of Christmas
December 23 – 4th Sunday of Advent – O Emmanuel: The Wonder Story
December 24 – Vigil of Christmas: Why Michael Whispered (This darling book is out of print… I found this at our old parish’s book sale last year.)
.: GIVEAWAY :.
sponsored by Ignatius Press (value $57.96) 

sponsored by Ignatius Press (value $18.95) 

sponsored by author Susan Peek (value $11.95)

{this moment} Saying Goodbye

by | Nov 17, 2018 | , , | 8 Comments

“The world’s thy ship and not thy home.”
― Saint Therese of Lisieux

It was so hard to say goodbye yesterday before driving back to our new home in Idaho… knowing that this could most likely be the last time all our children would be together at our home in Oregon before it sells. They have all lived in this home since birth and it has grown along with our family over the years. So many wonderful memories!

Our little wild one didn’t want to cooperate while we were trying to get that one last picture of all the children outside their childhood home.

I’ve shared this picture before but wanted to share it again w. This is what the house look liked when we purchased it back in May of 2000, while I was on bedrest with our oldest son who was born a couple months later. The house has grown with our family over the years, first adding on three more bedrooms and two more bathrooms in 2005 when baby #4 was on the way, and then adding on a dining room and family room and remodeling/expanding the kitchen (scroll to bottom of linked post to see the original kitchen), original bathroom and laundry room in 2010. Pretty much everything was updated or replaced over the years except for the wood ceilings in the entry/living room and two original bedrooms.  We never did get around to building a new garage or shop (it was next on the list of projects we were saving up for) and that has been the main factor in why our home hasn’t sold yet and why we’ve needed to continue dropping the price… We have another showing this afternoon so I guess we’ll see what happens! 🙏🏻 

Home Sweet Home

by | Nov 17, 2018 | | 4 Comments

While I’m sharing pictures of our home, and what it looked like when we first purchased it back in May of 2000, here are some that we had taken for the real estate listing. I shared these on my personal Facebook page when it first went on the market, but want to record them here on the blog too. We listed our home at the worst possible time of year – in August in the middle of fire season when our house was buried in smoke (this was the worst fire season we’ve ever had) – and everything has been so horribly dry and brown outside. Our photographer did the best he could to clear it up and add some blue back to the skies. Landscaping has never been something I am any good at and all our efforts went towards adding on and remodeling the house. A new garage and landscaping were next on the to-do list had we stayed in Oregon. As things continue to get greener we will probably have some new pictures taken, unless the house sells in the meantime. St. Joseph, pray for us!

This has been such a great home for our family for the past 18 1/2 years. 
If you are interested you can scroll through some of the Home Improvement posts I’ve shared over the years in the archives.  Here are a few to get you started: 

New Christmas Books for the Feast of St. Nicholas {and a St. Nicholas Giveaway!}

by | Nov 13, 2018 | , , , , , | 0 Comments

The feast of St. Nicholas is just a few weeks away! On December 6th our children always wake up to find that the letters they wrote to the Holy Child and/or St. Nicholas have been taken and their (sometimes new/replaced) slippers have been filled with little treats, oranges, chocolate gold coins, candy canes, and often times a note from St. Nicholas. Our children (and teens!) have always received a new Christmas book as well, which has helped us build an amazing collection over the years!

“A children’s story that can only be enjoyed by children is not a good children’s story in the slightest.” – C.S. Lewis

I picked out some of this years books months ago, before life started getting really crazy with our out-of-state move, and last week I went hunting for bookstores near our new home to find a few last books to finish the list. I haven’t wrapped them up yet but plan to once again use the brown paper, red ribbon and little St. Nicholas labels.

You are welcome to download my St. Nicholas labels over at Dropbox with either Black or Green text. 


Here is the list of books my husband and I picked out for our children this year:
Note: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
For Captain:

“Celebrate Christmas with Charlie Brown and the rest of the Peanuts gang in this gorgeous deluxe storybook retelling of the beloved Christmas special! Christmas is almost here, which means ice-skating, Christmas carols, and sparkly lights everywhere—even on Snoopy’s doghouse! Everyone is enjoying the holiday celebrations except Charlie Brown. Can the Peanuts gang help Charlie Brown discover the true meaning of Christmas? Find out in this beautiful deluxe storybook with a cloth cover, lush foil stamping, and incredible illustrations! This makes the perfect holiday gift for fans of Peanuts and the classic Christmas special.”

Our eldest son has always loved Charlie Brown! This book will be a fun addition to his collection. 

For Ranger: 

“On a snowy hilltop in the north of England lives a lonely old farmer. Every night, he watches the lights flickering cheerily in his village–until World War II brings darkness to his country. As Christmas approaches and the village is threatened by enemy bombers, the old farmer devises a plan to bring hope and light back to his friends and remind all of the peace the Christmas season brings.”

I had a hard time deciding which of the boys to give this story to… They will all love it! 
(Originally I thought I’d give this one to our 11 year old and the LEGO Ornament book to Ranger…
but Sean voted for the opposite.) 
For Twinkle Toes: 

“Queen Charlotte brought her family’s festive holiday yule bough from Germany to England. While planning a Christmas Day party in 1800 at Windsor Castle for over 100 children, she realized a single bough isn’t enough. So she brought in the whole tree instead, making it the first known Christmas Tree in England. This story tells a little known fact about a favorite holiday tradition.”


For Chiquita:

“A warm and wonderful story of the creation of the timeless hymn, Silent Night, and its creator Joseph Mohr. Silent Night celebrates the 200th anniversary of the beloved hymn, and shares the story behind the creation of one of the world’s most recognizable tunes. “

Our older two girls have both joined the choir at our new parish and I know they will especially love reading this story about the hymn Silent Night.

For Snuggles: 

“Building instructions for 16 clever Christmas ornaments that can be built from standard LEGO parts that fans are likely to have in their collection. These small and uncomplicated ornaments are quick to build and a joy to display. “

**I might end up just giving this to all the kids and giving Snuggles the brand new book by Susan Peek, Saint Rudolph and the Reindeer. 

For Rose: 

“When Wilma decides her garden needs a new beginning, she gathers string, scissors, shovels, sixty-two dozen balsam seedlings, and Parker, her five-year-old neighbor. Year after year, Wilma and Parker nurture their trees, keeping careful count of how many they plant, how many perish, and how many grow to become fine, full Christmas trees. A cozy, holiday read-aloud and a lyrical way to usher in the month of December.”

For Bud: 

“This classic Christmas story about a shy boy who plays his trusted drum for the newborn king will charm children and parents alike. A brand new story from Bernadette Watts, never before published.”

For Grace: 

“With this colorfully illustrated board book version of the classic Christmas-time ballet, Jennifer Adams and Alison Oliver present a new holiday favorite, The Nutcracker: A BabyLit® Dancing Primer. This board book features soldiers marching, mice prancing, snowflakes swirling, dolls bending, and buffoons skipping as a way to introduce basic movement terms to babies and toddlers.”
Bonus – For Sean and I: 

Michael Foley, author of Drinking with the Saints, presents cocktail recipes and wine, beer, and cider recommendations that will keep hearths warm and parties joyful throughout the holidays. With stories about the history of St. Nicholas and other saints, as well as an advent calendar leading up to Christmas, this gift book is a must for anyone who starts stringing lights and playing Christmas music the day after Thanksgiving. Let the Christmas games begin!

Bonus – Family Read Aloud: 


I found this book on Ebay a few years ago (back before Grace was born when we still had seven children) and keep forgetting to pull it out for the feast of St. Nicholas. It’s about seven children in New Amsterdam who worry that St. Nicholas will not be able to find them in the New World. I’m hoping, as we get settled into our new home, that I’ll be able to find the time to read it aloud this December. I’m looking forward to it! 

The darling wooden St. Nicholas toys in the above two pictures are from Naturally Catholic and Almond Rod Toys. 

.: Giveaway :. 

I’ll be hosting four Advent and Christmas themed giveaways again this year – at least that is the plan! I had hoped to get them on the blog each weekend of November leading up to Advent but I’m running way behind with the move. Here is the first giveaway in preparation for the feast of St. Nicholas!

Prize #1 – Set of Five Cookie Stamps with Recipe Booklet 

sponsored by Rycraft Cookie Stamps (combined value $64.95)

Congratulations, Giselle V! 

Prize #2 – A Brand New Picture Book by Susan Peek

A baby reindeer longs for a name. Before his mother can choose one, invaders come and the herd flees . . . except for him. His wobbly legs are too weak to run. Captured and taken to a new land, the little reindeer yearns for escape . . . and for a friend. Meanwhile, as Christmas Eve draws near, a saintly bishop and a holy monk plan a surprise for the poor of their village. When problems arise, all seems doomed, until their paths cross with that of the baby reindeer . . . and a legend is born.
– sponsored by author Susan Peek (value $11.95)

Congratulations, Elisse F! 

Please enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter box below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

For additional Christmas book suggestions you can find some of our lists in the archives: 

 Saint Nicholas & the Nine Gold Coins {Beautiful book!}

 Christmas Mosaic: A Review & Featured Book List

 35 Favorite Christmas Picture Books for Children

 Feasts & Seasons :: Advent & Christmas Collection


Our 2015 Advent Book Basket and Printable Labels 

 Our 2016 Advent Book Basket and Printable Labels 

 Our 2017 Advent Book Basket and Printable Labels {I’m planning to share our 2018 Basket and Labels soon!}

New Christmas Books for the Feast of St. Nicholas: 
2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017

Stacks of Books on Christmas Morning or Epiphany: 
2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017



Even more St. Nicholas themed gifts can be found in these past posts filled with Christmas Gift Ideas & Stocking Stuffers from 2015, 2016 and 2017 including suggestions from our children!

Celebrating Martinmas

by | Nov 11, 2018 | , , | 18 Comments

Our Martinmas celebration is simple this year but we are reading a new picture book that was sent to us from Pauline Books & Media: The Sword and the Cape: A Tale about Saint Martin of Tours. 

We also pulled out Snow on Martinmas to read again as well and might try and have a little bonfire this evening after Mass.

“Martin, so comfortable on his horse and cozy within his beautiful thick coat, took the coat from his shoulders, cut it with his sword and draped the largest part on the man. Something spoke inside his heart and said it was the right thing to do.“
– Snow on Martinmas
 

On Friday morning, when I went out for early morning Mass, I realized just how unprepared we are for a winter up north… As I stood shivering in my little sweater type “jacket” a friend was telling me what type of winter coats to look for and where the best thrift shops in the area are located… Not even an hour later another woman from our new parish, after hearing that we needed coats, showed up at our doorstep with a car full of coats (14 to be exact) just before the snow hit! What a blessing!! The girls especially love their new red coats and I now have plenty of coats for winter too. Everyone at our new parish has been so incredibly welcoming. May God reward her abundantly for her St. Martin like generosity!

Hope you all have a very blessed Martinmas! 

Prayer for the Holy Father on the Feast of the Dedication of St. John Lateran Basilica

by | Nov 10, 2018 | , , , | 11 Comments

Pope and Swiss Guard Set • Vaulted Cathedral Cake

“For even now miracles are wrought in the name of Christ, whether by His sacraments or by the prayers or relics of His saints.”
– St. Augustine

After attending the early morning mass at the Carmelite convent near our new home, I came back and found the box with all of our Naturally Catholic toys and dug out the Pope and Swiss Guard Set for the little ones to play with while I baked a Vaulted Cathedral Cake for today’s feast of the Dedication of the Basilica of St. John Lateran!

(While the cake was baking we had our very first snowfall in our new home so I dusted the cake with powdered sugar too! The ground is now covered with snow. The kids are all thrilled and I’m trying to decide whether or not to still try and make the long drive back to Oregon tomorrow…)

The Lateran Basilica is the cathedral of Rome, the Pope’s church, and “Mother of all churches of urbe et orbe.” On this special feast, and each and every day, let us remember to pray for our Holy Father.
Lord, source of eternal life and truth, give to Your shepherd, the Pope, a spirit of courage and right judgment, a spirit of knowledge and love. By governing with fidelity those entrusted to his care may he, as successor to the apostle Peter and vicar of Christ, build Your church into a sacrament of unity, love, and peace for all the world. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, Who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

Sponsor Love :: Quarterly Update & Current Specials

by | Nov 7, 2018 | | 2 Comments

We are working on unpacking and settling into our new home. What a crazy month it has been! I’m hoping to share some pictures here on the blog, and I’m also working on putting together my pre-Christmas giveaways, but first I want to share a little about a couple new sponsors as well as some awesome coupon codes!

Please welcome my new sponsors:

Grace & Grit Design Co. 


We outfit women to beautify their domestic church with religious goods for both the home and lifestyle. We provide stylish, on trend products that are meant to convey the HOPE that we have in Christ so that others may see our HOPE and are encouraged to learn more.
Right now you can SAVE 15% off any product through Dec. 31, 2018 with coupon code: XMASROSE

 In addition to visiting the website, you can also follow Grace & Grit Design Co. on Facebook and Instagram! 
+ + +

Ministry thru Mystery
What does Ministry thru Mystery mean?

 I’m so glad you asked. Basically, it’s a simple way to describe my writing.

I’ve always had a passion for mysteries. Even as a child I was drawn to who-dunnits, spending hours puzzling out those intriguing plots. If the book also happened to include elements of humor, a touch of romance, and positive messages, then I was in heaven. Now that I’m an author, my novels include this potpourri of styles.

Stories are an incredible way to reach people and I strive to create novels that can strengthen the faith of others. Each of my books has an underlying theme: using your gifts and talents to help others, recognizing who God wants you to be, having the courage to say “yes” to a Divine call, and being a witness to others.

 Sadly, our kids are inundated daily with negative and damaging messages through movies, television, music, social media, and even mainstream books. As a mother myself, I understand this problem. In fact, that is how my writing career began.

 Years ago, when my children were searching for YA novels, I was having a hard time finding any that would be fun, adventurous, and also reflect our family’s values. I remember wondering why no one was writing the kinds of books I was searching for not knowing that I would eventually become that person.

God has led me on this incredible journey and I pray I can help others who may be facing the same parenting struggles that I did. Besides writing faith-filled novels, I have also started reviewing Christian and Catholic books on my website. Surrounding our children with good, value-based examples is becoming harder and harder to do but I hope to help change that culture one book at a time.


In addition to visiting www.LesleaWahl.com, you can also follow her on Facebook and Twitter! 

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A special THANK YOU to all my continuing sponsors! 

Prayer Pillowcases
Prayer Pillowcases are more than just a pretty place to lay your head! They’re a unique way to bring Catholic art and prayer into your home and a practical way to share the Faith with your family and friends. Our distinctive line combines original art and favorite Catholic prayers that appeal to all ages and transform pillows from the ordinary to the divine! Honor a special occasion or make any occasion special with the gift of a joyful, lasting (and personalizable) Prayer Pillowcase. We’re always working on new designs and hope you’ll visit again soon to see even more ways to help your loved ones begin and each day with a prayerful heart.


Prayer Pillowcases make lovely Christmas gifts!


Early Bird Shoppers: 20% off  all Prayer Pillowcases now through November 15th with coupon code: EarlyBird

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Culture of Life Studies Program (CLSP)
The Culture of Life Studies Program serves teachers and parents as they guide their students in building a culture that respects and protects the dignity of every human being regardless of age, appearance, or ability. We have two exciting announcements this Fall.

We turned our best selling 100% Pro-Life T-shirt into a super warm and comfy hoodie. Visit prolifehoodie.com and get one today! All proceeds go toward providing pro-life educational materials and support to parents and teachers across the US and Canada.

We have also teamed up once again with the Institute for Excellence in Writing to provide students the opportunity to win cash, prizes, and publication on our website for articulately expressing their pro-life knowledge. Visit prolifeessay.com for more information.

Shower of Roses readers can always save 20% off their entire order using the code: ROSES20

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Sacred Heart Books & Gifts
We are here to serve your needs for Catholic books, curriculum, and gifts. We offer most of our products at 15% off retail. If you are looking for something and can’t find it on our site, please contact us and we will do our best to find it.

Follow Sacred Heart Books & Gifts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for updates and specials! 

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Gail’s Designs
Gail’s Designs has been creating unique, elegant jewelry and cherished rosaries since 2009. Gail has been an artist for most of her life and is grateful for her faith and being able to make elegant jewelry and cherished rosaries for people of the Catholic faith.

 

In addition to the website, you can also follow Gail’s Designs on Facebook and Instagram for updates and new designs!

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“Behold Publications, LLC is more than just a publisher! Family owned and operated since its founding in 1999, we have developed great Catholic clubs like the Little Flowers Girls’ Club and Blue Knights Catholic Boys’ Clubs for Catholic girls and boys ages 5 and up. What makes these clubs unique is that they are at their core faithfully Catholic. We don’t “tack on” Catholic identity as other clubs might, but begin and end with a Catholic world view. We also believe that local clubs best operate the way they see fit, so there is no national organization, policies, registration or dues. Groups can easily adjust the program to fit their local needs. Behold Publications also produce a line of historical fiction based on American history and American saints for ages 7-15.”

You can still find my revised and updated Little Flowers Crafting Pages available on their website along with so much more!

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Peanut Butter & Grace 
The mission of Peanut Butter & Grace is to help Catholic parents raise children who know and love Christ and his Church. We do this by providing digital and print resources that assist parents in forming their children in the faith within the daily life of their family. All of our products are made for Catholic parents—either to use themselves, or to hand to their kids.

Free shipping on orders of $25 or more, whole-book previews, and 45-day review!

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Kolbe Academy

With salvation as the ultimate goal, Kolbe Academy’s educational programs allow you to tailor the formation of each child in the Catholic tradition, with a classical approach.

All three of our high schoolers are currently enrolled with Kolbe Academy and working towards the Magna Cum Laude Diploma. In addition to all the benefits of enrolling, I really love the flexibility that Kolbe offers and that we can continue tailoring our curriculum to our family’s preferences and our children’s needs.

In addition to visiting Kolbe Academy’s website, you can also follow them on Facebook or Twitter for updates and specials! 

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Sleightholm Folk Art
“Welcome to Sleightholm Folk Art, formerly known as Audrey Eclectic, a unique collection of American folk art created in the heart of the Oklahoma prairie. My inspiration comes from faith, folk lore, family and good books.” You can read more about Heather’s work here.

In addition to the Etsy Shop you can also find Sleightholm Folk Art on Facebook and Instagram!

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Family Friendly Audiobooks on CD. Wholesome entertainment and education for all ages! 
Sign up for our newsletter and receive a one time use 20% Off coupon!
Also be sure to visit St. Clare Heirloom Seeds specializing in Non-GMO, Non-Hybrid, Non-Treated Heirloom and Open Pollinated Vegetable, Flower, and Herb Garden Seeds


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Almond Rod Toys
Almond Rod Toys makes Saint Blocks that are just the right size for little hands and can be used for imaginative play, building, stacking or collecting. The front has a print of original watercolor artwork. The back has a quote or a prayer chosen to inspire little ones and the one that cleans up behind them. The saint’s name, feast day and patronage are also listed; just enough to be a reminder and an inspiration for further learning.

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Catholic Cuisine Aprons
All of our aprons are embroidered, not screen printed, giving them a rich, elegant, look! Our durable 100% cotton-twill aprons, with soil-release finish for added stain protection, provide ultimate full length cover and comfort.


 

 I think I might order my girls one for Christmas! 😉

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Have you ordered your Advent Candles yet? 

The 100% Beeswax Advent Candles from The Dominican Nuns that we’ve used and shared and used in the past are available again in limited quantities over at The Cloister Shoppe! 
These never last long! 

Thank you to all of my sponsors and visitors for your support! May God bless you all! 


New Books for October: The Complete Illuminated Rosary {Sponsored Review and Giveaway!}

by | Oct 17, 2018 | , | 0 Comments

The Complete Illuminated Rosary (hardcover edition) • Chews Life Pink Rosary

“‘Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee!’ No creature has ever said anything that was more pleasing to me, nor will anyone ever be able to find or say to me anything that pleases me more.” 
– Our Lady to Saint Mechtilde

The month of October is dedicated to the Most Holy Rosary. Gracewatch Media has provided me with review copies of their newly revised Illuminated Rosary series that has just been released.

With sacred art images for every single prayer of the rosary, these books are an excellent aid to help avoid distraction and reflect on the various mysteries of the Rosary. It would make a lovely and inspiring gift for the whole family!

Be sure to scroll to the bottom of this post to enter for a chance to win a copy of The Complete Illuminated Rosary!

Available in three editions including The Complete Illuminated Rosary (hardcover) and Individual softcovers (pictured above – The Joyful Mysteries, The Sorrowful Mysteries, The Glorious Mysteries, and The Luminous Mysteries), as well as the The Complete Illuminated Rosary (softcover) which is pictured below in giveaway. The complete editions include all four mysteries in one 370-page book.

You can purchase them directly from the publisher and save 25% now through November 7, 2018 with coupon code roses25.

 

I really love the individual softcover editions of these new books and look forward to flipping through the pages with my little ones during one of our upcoming daily rosaries. 
For our family rosary each day we have always meditated on the original 15 Mysteries given by the Blessed Mother to St. Dominic: Joyful mysteries on Mondays, Thursdays, Sundays of Advent, Christmastide & Time After Epiphany; the Sorrowful mysteries on Tuesdays, Fridays, and all the days of Septuagesima & Lent; and the Glorious mysteries on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays of Eastertide & Time After Pentecost. 

 

Also pictured in this post are a couple of our little Grace’s rosaries made by Chews Life! You can find them on their website as well as a variety available with free prime shipping on Amazon as well.

 

In addition to the gorgeous sacred art, the illuminated rosary books also include a a Scripture-based, kid-friendly meditation to introduce each mystery, the full text of every prayer, and a string of rose “beads” at the bottom of each page helps kids keep track of the Aves (Hail Mary prayers).

 

Saint John Paul II called the Rosary his “favorite prayer” after the Mass and the Liturgy of the Hours. During this month dedicated to the Most Holy Rosary make an extra effort each evening to pray the rosary as a family if you don’t already!

“How beautiful is the family that recites the Rosary every evening.” 
– St. John Paul II
.: GIVEAWAY :.

The publisher has provided me with a copy of The Complete Illuminated Rosary (softcover edition) to send to one of my visitors here at Shower of Roses! (Retail value of $64.00) 

The Complete Illuminated Rosary helps kids say the rosary with their families because the full text of every prayer is printed on each page, paired with beautiful sacred art illustrating the mystery being contemplated nearly 90 works of classic and contemporary art in all.

Think of it as a “printed rosary,” where each page stands for one bead except the “beads” are works of sacred art! Each decade features a Scripture-based introduction to the mystery being prayed.

Enter the giveaway in the Rafflecopter Box below. Winner will be announced here in this post on Saturday, October 27, 2018.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

“If you wish to convert anyone to the fullness of the knowledge of Our Lord and of His Mystical Body, then teach him the Rosary. One of two things will happen. Either he will stop saying the Rosary — or he will get the gift of faith.” – Venerable Archbishop Fulton Sheen

{this moment} Saying Goodbye

{this moment} Saying Goodbye

by | Nov 17, 2018 | , , | 8 Comments

“The world's thy ship and not thy home.”― Saint Therese of LisieuxIt was so hard to say goodbye yesterday before driving back to our new home in Idaho... knowing that this could most likely be the last time all our children would be together at our home in Oregon...

Home Sweet Home

Home Sweet Home

by | Nov 17, 2018 | | 4 Comments

While I'm sharing pictures of our home, and what it looked like when we first purchased it back in May of 2000, here are some that we had taken for the real estate listing. I shared these on my personal Facebook page when it first went on the market, but want to...

Celebrating Martinmas

Celebrating Martinmas

by | Nov 11, 2018 | , , | 18 Comments

Our Martinmas celebration is simple this year but we are reading a new picture book that was sent to us from Pauline Books & Media: The Sword and the Cape: A Tale about Saint Martin of Tours. We also pulled out Snow on Martinmas to read again as well and...

Sponsor Love :: Quarterly Update & Current Specials

Sponsor Love :: Quarterly Update & Current Specials

by | Nov 7, 2018 | | 2 Comments

We are working on unpacking and settling into our new home. What a crazy month it has been! I'm hoping to share some pictures here on the blog, and I'm also working on putting together my pre-Christmas giveaways, but first I want to share a little about a couple new...

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-25, Ranger-24, Twinkle Toes-22, Chiquita-21, Snuggles-18, Rose-16, Bud-14, Grace-8 and Joy-6 (blog nicknames)

A Little About Me

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

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