August 1st, 2023 In some ways August is like an opportunity to start fresh and begin again. For me, I typically dive in to all things home education and begin to plot out our year. After doing this for 22 years, I have learned a few things along the way. The most important of these is to follow what God is calling you to do. Trust that what He has put on your heart, also comes with His grace to do it. Not on your own...with His help. "Do not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect." Romans 12:2 So, here we are with some changes again this year in our curriculum and schedule. This verse from Romans keeps coming to my mind...renewing my mind...discerning what is the will of God...it won't be perfect, but we will strive to make it good and pleasing. Over the last week, our 2 youngest have received boxes in the mail with their names on them. These boxes hold their books and lesson plans for the upcoming year. They have already opened them, organized the contents, and are excited to get started. Yes, that's right...a 7th grader and 9th grader are excited to get started with their school work. My first thought is to say, "Let's wait until after Labor Day like we usually do...enjoy summer while we can." My second thought is to let them lead. They are old enough to know what is required of them and if they want to start, let's do it! Let's harness their excitement and motivation to get a jump on the school year. This calls for a bit of flexibility and renewing of my mind on my part. It also gives an opportunity for me to conform my heart to God's will and not my own. Stay tuned to see if we actually start school this week or not...
SPIRITUAL
Have you ever attended a priestly ordination? We had the honor of being invited to the pre and post celebrations of our dear friend's ordination in June. What a blessing to be a part of Fr. Kyle's journey. He is now immersed in priestly life and is joyfully discovering the fullness of his vocation. This picture shows Fr. Kyle bestowing his first priestly blessing on Bishop Austin Anthony Vetter at the Cathedral of St. Helena. We need priests. Please pray for vocations to the priesthood and religious life. And pray for Fr. Kyle as he begins his priestly ministry. God our Father, we thank you for calling men and women to serve in your Son’s Kingdom as priests, deacons, and consecrated persons. Send your Holy Spirit to help others to respond generously and courageously to your call. May our community of faith support vocations of sacrificial love in our youth and young adults. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen
SELF
During the month of July, I joined a challenge to walk or hike 100 miles. At first, it seemed like a lot and that I would not be able to do it. But, with each new day, I chose to work a little bit towards the goal. My shortest walk one day was .5 miles. My longest walk a different day was 7 miles. By the end of the month (yesterday), I totaled 102 miles. It feels really good to have accomplished something I set out to do for myself and I feel the positive benefits in my mind and in my body.
Do you know what motivates you to get things done? I like to be challenged and have something to strive for. So, I'm going to keep moving in this month of August. Join me if you can in walking or hiking 100 miles in the month of August.
Taking care of your body
takes care of your mind.
#100milesinaugust
SERVICE As the new school year is right around the corner, there are undoubtedly many opportunities awaiting you. You will be asked to help with this and volunteer for that. I'm here to remind you that it is okay to say no. It is okay to be picky about how you spend your time and what you commit to. Do not become BUSY. Being Under Satan's Yoke This is what busy means. And it's what Satan wants. Being busy pulls you away from your primary vocation-your marriage and family. It's quite fulfilling to have a full schedule and to conquer the tasks of the day. Just make sure you are maintaining your peace and not taking on so much that you become BUSY.
Mediterranean Grazing Board Some days it's just too hot to want to cook! Today is one of those days so my girls and I made this delicious Mediterranean Grazing Board. Filled with meat, cheese, dried fruit and lots of veggies, there is something for everyone. What you don't see in the picture is the Italian olive oil almonds and pistachios and a bowl of freshly made hummus. I really wanted olives in there, but unfortunately, I am out! For the board, we used the following: Turkey pepperoni, Naan bread, prosciutto, sweet potato crackers, mini peppers, grape tomatoes, rosemary rice crackers, dried apricots, herbed parmesan cheese, salami, smoked gouda, fresh radish and cucumbers from our garden and carrots. 
Link: Hummus Recipe
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