Author: Maria

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SURRENDER ALL book giveaway

I’m so excited to share this wonderful book for Lent, Surrender All: An Illuminated Journal Retreat through the Stations of the Cross by artist Jen Norton.

I’m always looking for some spiritual reading. I go through those books, if not quickly, then certainly consistently, as I dedicate a part of my morning prayer to spiritual reading. Jen’s book combines that meditation with a visual component that feeds all my senses. I think you’ll enjoy it, too.

I am looking forward to praying through the Stations of the Cross with this lovely companion.

To celebrate Jen’s book launch, I’m giving away a copy of Surrender All to folks in my monthly newsletter. You can sign up here. I’ll be selecting the winner on February 11th to ensure you’ll get the book by the beginning of Lent.

You can also get a copy through Ave Maria Press for the special price of $13, and shipping is free! Use the code: JOHNSON.

Spiritual reading has enriched my morning prayer routine, and subsequently, my whole day. I’d love for you to share what you’re reading, and of course, your reactions to this lovely recommendation.

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a bit of a progress report

I often go back and forth on the idea of making New Year’s resolutions. At this point in the game, weeks after the New Year, I’ve usually broken them.

Nevertheless, I think it’s a good idea to make an examination of my habits and goals, and make an effort to grow, to be better in those areas of my life where a little (or a lot!) of improvement would make me a better person.

The new year is traditionally a good place to start, but every day is a new day.

What area of your life would benefit from change? Name it out loud or write it down.

Instead of wishing for a dramatic outcome, frame it as an actionable plan.

Instead of wishing to eat a healthier diet, resolve to eliminate carbonated soft drinks.

Instead of hoping for a closer relationship with your parents, resolve to call once a week.

Instead of wishing your garage would be cleaned up, go out and throw away one item. 

Want to write that novel that’s been simmering in your imagination for so many years? Write a sentence. Then another. And then another.

Begin. And then, begin again.

sign up for more inspiration from the saints here.

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Review: The Life All Around Me

This sweet little book touched my heart. The Life All Around Me by Kaye Gibbons is a coming of age story set in the Carolinas. It includes quirky characters amidst a series of tragedies and disappointments that create a perfect storm of challenges and grace for the title character, Ellen Foster.

Although the story is about Ellen and how she overcomes the deaths of her parents and a conniving aunt that places her in foster care, I am drawn to Laura, the woman who takes in Ellen and and helps her flourish.

Laura opens her home to Ellen, and giver her the warmth she needs in order to thrive. Ellen’s teenage angst was funny, but her earnest desire to learn and use the opportunity given to her is endearing.

Laura’s gift of selfless support extends to the women in her community. Ellen sees this and admires the quality in her foster mother. It wasn’t unusual for Laura to open her guestroom to young mothers for a nap and a little respite. Ellen recognizes that Laura is the kind of woman who loves “enough to keep a friend hidden of a Sunday afternoon and waken them with English tea in a China pot and a tin of biscuit treats they can’t have at home because everything gets consumed out from under them.”

This powerful lesson teaches Ellen that in spite of the ugly treatment from her aunt, she doesn’t have to “slip into being the kind of girl who damages women.”

There is sorrow in Ellen’s circumstances, but also a great deal of hope and joy. I’m delighted by Ellen and her trust, but it is Laura’s example of loving support that makes this a terrific weekend read.

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