Gathering Goodies

Holy Week Suggestions from NCRegister

2011-03-17T21:46:00.000-05:00

I found this on the National Catholic Register and thought it worth passing along on my blog...you can find the article here:

Making the Most of Holy Week

The liturgies of the Church throughout Holy Week are the preeminent way to take advantage of the opportunity the Church gives us

Perhaps Lent 2007 went well for us, a profound time of confronting weaknesses out of love for the Lord. Or maybe it went rather poorly, and in fact was kind of forgotten in all the busyness of life. Either way, there is still time to take advantage of the opportunity the Church gives us to grow closer to Christ.

The liturgies of the Church throughout Holy Week are the preeminent way to do so. They can provide the “meat” of Holy Week’s spiritual experience. Here are some ways to enhance what we’ll be hearing.

Palm Sunday

“Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday, or ‘Passion Sunday,’ which unites the royal splendor of Christ with the proclamation of his passion,” says the Vatican’s Directory on Popular Piety and the Liturgy (No. 138). “Palms and olive branches are kept in the home as a witness to faith in Jesus Christ, the messianic King, and in his paschal victory.”

• Palm basket. One nice custom is to weave those palms into a basket — on Easter Sunday it will hold painted eggs for your table’s centerpiece.

Holy Thursday

Lent ends officially with the beginning of the Easter Triduum at the Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday.

• Passover-style meal. Some like to have a special dinner that night to ease the transition to the fast and abstinence of Good Friday, a sort of modified Passover dinner: lamb, rice pilaf, a raw vegetable plate, matzo bread and haroset salad (9 tart apples, peeled and chopped, 3/4 cup chopped walnuts. 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon, 3 tablespoons honey, 1/3 cup sweet red wine. Mix well, serves six). Appropriate psalms for the occasion: Psalm 113, 114, 118.

Two things are important to note: This should be considered a way of introducing one’s family to the customs of Jesus’ time in a very general way, not as a Seder meal per se, since the Seder meal is an important and sacred Jewish ritual that we should not make light of. Second, in the Catholic Church, such a meal should not interfere with our availability for Holy Thursday Mass, which is far more important.

• Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament — available until midnight in many churches — is the best way to end Holy Thursday. “Because of a long historical process, whose origins are not entirely clear,” says the Directory of Popular Piety (No. 141), “the place of repose has traditionally been referred to as ‘a holy sepulcher.’ The faithful go there to venerate Jesus who was placed in a tomb following the crucifixion and in which he remained for some 40 hours.”

Good Friday

The Easter fast that many begin after Holy Thursday Mass is obligatory on Good Friday.

• Regulations for Fast and Abstinence: “Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are days of both fast and abstinence from meat. Fast binds all over the age of 21 and under the age of 59. On days of fast, one full meal is allowed. Two other meals sufficient to maintain strength may be taken according to each one’s needs, but together they should not equal another full meal. Eating in between meals is not permitted, but liquids, including milk and juices, are allowed. When health or ability to work would be seriously affected, the law does not oblige.”

• Church services. Mass isn’t offered on Good Friday; but a Communion service and veneration of the cross is. When possible, Catholics take a break from work between the hours of noon and 3 p.m., the time Christ spent on the cross. This is also prime time to participate in the Stations of the Cross.

• Divine Mercy Novena. Today, the special Divine Mercy novena leading up to Mercy Sunday begins. To find out how to participate, go to EWTN.com and from the menu under “Faith” choose “Devotions” then “Novenas.”

Holy Saturday

Holy Saturday is an empty time of waiting. No Mass is offered, not even a Communion service like Good Friday’s. It isn’t an official fasting day, but many Catholics eat modestly this day as we wait to celebrate the Resurrection.

• The Office of Readings offers an ancient homily called “The Lord Descends Into Hell” this day. Here is an excerpt:

“Something strange is happening — there is a great silence on earth today, a great silence and stillness. The whole earth keeps silence because the King is asleep. The earth trembled and is still because God has fallen asleep in the flesh and he has raised up all who have slept ever since the world began. God has died in the flesh and hell trembles with fear.

“He has gone to search for our first parent, as for a lost sheep. Greatly desiring to visit those who live in darkness and in the shadow of death, he has gone to free from sorrow the captives Adam and Eve, he who is both God and the son of Eve. The Lord approached them bearing the cross, the weapon that had won him the victory. At the sight of him Adam, the first man he had created, struck his breast in terror and cried out to everyone: ‘My Lord be with you all.’ Christ answered him: ‘And with your spirit.’ He took him by the hand and raised him up, saying: ‘Awake, O sleeper, and rise from the dead, and Christ will give you light.’”

The entire reading can be found at: catholicculture.org/docs/doc_view.cfm?recnum=6872

It’s a lovely way to prepare for Easter … the greatest feast of the Church, which we’ll write about next week.

Passion for The Passion

Hot Cross Buns

The making and eating of hot cross buns on this day of mourning is a very old tradition, dating from before 1225. The superstitions surrounding the practice aren’t helpful (like the one that causes some people to save one hot cross bun on their mantelpiece for a year’s worth of good baking), but there are some very nice legends and stories to share on this day:

Robin Redbreast
Legend has it that the robin tried to remove the bloody thorns from Christ’s head at the crucifixion. Christ’s blood fell on the bird and he has worn a red breast as a badge of honor since.

The Dogwood
An old legend has that at the time of the Crucifixion, the dogwood was comparable in size to the oak tree. Because of its firmness and strength it was selected for the cross. The crucified Jesus in his gentle pity for the sorrow and suffering of all said to it, “Because of your sorrow and pity for my sufferings, never again will the dogwood tree grow large enough to be used as a cross. Henceforth it will be slender, bent and twisted, and its blossoms will be in the form of a cross, two long and two short petals. In the center of the outer edge of each petal there will be nail prints, brown with rust and stained with red, and in the center of the flower will be a crown of thorns, and all who see this will remember.”

Freebies, Coupons and Tips

2011-02-09T08:08:00.003-06:00

Thought I would pass along a few sites and facebook pages that offer coupons and freebies. Plus some tip sites that have lots of goodies .

So here is a list of some sites you might like:

TIPNUT

...I love this site..so many free goodies..recipes, crafts, tutorials..you name it!

Mommy Savers

Above is Blog link below is facebook link

MommySavers

Coupons and Freebies Blog

Above is Blog link below is facebook link

CouponsandFreebiesMom

Freebies 4 Mom Blog

Above is Blog link below is facebook link

Freebies4Mom

Dollar Store Crafts

Above is Blog link below is facebook link

DollarStoreCrafts

And last I couldn't leave you with out a freebie of my own...here is a Valentine postcard to use with your crafts

Right click for larger image and save to your desktop to print

Here are some little cat dolls I added to my

Etsy Store...

Whoops this set of 4 Little Sister Cats Sold..but I will try and add a new set this afternoon, plus I will try and do some more little flora brooches or scrapbook addons...had some request for these.

Thoughts

Today here is a simple prayer I leave with you...simple and true...one I need to repeat often myself

" Jesus, so humble of heart, make our hearts like unto thine."

Valentine Goodies...Freebies..Thoughts!

2011-02-05T10:43:00.001-06:00

First here is a link to tipnuts Valentines Page..it is full of great items to make from various site...really neat items.

I am also posting some freebies...first is this set of Valentine Tags for you to print for personal use or to label you crafts...please do not resell graphics on any of my freebies..I still retain the copyright..

Right Click to go to larger image and say to your desktop:

Now here is a set of Valentine Hang Tags

Last one vintage valentine...This is only one image

Thoughts

Valentine's Day is about love..so here is a verse to share..simple words to live by:

"A new commandment I give unto you: That you love one another, as I have loved you, that you also love one another."

John 13.34

Fresh and New Quilts, Patterns and Thoughts!

2011-02-03T23:29:00.001-06:00

I spent the early and I do mean early part of this morning searching lap quilts on Etsy.

I have a weakness for beautiful quilts with lots of pretty colors against a white background..they seem so clean and fresh.
Well I found some real goodies this morning and I want to share them with you..plus I ordered a pattern..hoping to try my hand at making one of these..never mind that I have never ever made a quilt. I though I would make the top and have a local lady quilt it for me.

The great thing about this pattern is what Sue, the lady who designed it, said and I took her for her word "EASY"...it has to be for me to try it.

The name of the shop on Etsy is Sweet Jane and her quilts and patterns are just wonderful!

Her shop is named after her cute little daughter Jane featured on her banner who is from China and her son is from Taiwan!

Moda has chosen to carry 9 of her patterns at all their stores... and that is no surprise as her quilts are

"fresh" and "new" as described by her customers.....I couldn't have said it better!

Now here are some of her quilts below..the first one is the pattern I ordered..isn't it lovely..makes you smile.

San Francisco Window Boxes Lap or Baby Quilt Pattern....Quick and Easy LAYER Cake or Fat Quarters Listing # 67361667 $9

Here are some more that I love from her shop......be sure to visit her shop and see all the lovely quilts and patterns. It's hard to decide which I like best.

I hope you enjoy visiting her shop as much as I did...I can't wait to get my pattern. Plus Sue is a really nice person. So hop on over and visit this quilt shop!

Make Your Own Valentine Gifts

Handmade pincushions from various found objects make great Valentine gifts.

These are easy to make out of what ever catches your fancy. As you can see in the photo below I used various items...vintage sherbet dishes, little glass slipper, a creamer and a wee teacup.

First draw a circle on the wrong side of fabric of your choice ...you will have to judge about what size your fabric circle should be each will be different.

Cut out the circle and slip stitch all around the outside edge like making a yoyo.

Place polyfill in the center of the fabric on the wrong side and draw thread to form a ball..tie knot in thread.

Next place the fabric ball into the object and hot glue it around the edge

Add embellishments such as lace, ribbon, beads whatever.

These are fun and simple to make...use your imagination. I bet you have items sitting around your house that would make a cute pincushion.

LITTLE SACHETS

Sew and stuff a simple heart after adding a hanger decorate it with various embellishments...bows, lace, trims paper graphics and you have a nice little gift...you can fill it with lavender for a sweet sachet

Make oblong sachets from scrap fabic, add a ribbon hanger and fill with lavender..these make nice drawer sachets

Simple yoyos make great gifts....Just add felt leafs and a pin or magnet.

Hope this gives you some ideas of the simple little gifts you can make. It's nice to get a special handmade gift and you won't have to spend much money.

Now last but not least....

THOUGHTS

Things are really hard for a lot of people now..families are trying to make ends meet and some have lost their jobs. My heart goes out to those of you who this has happened to..maybe it's not in your immediate family, but I am sure you know someone who has lost their job. I am adding a prayer below that I got from EWTN for finding employment. If you need other prayers or inspiration..this is a wonderful site.

If this has happened to you or your family members...remember don't give up..put your trust in the Lord.. He is always there...you just have to trust him. That's what faith is...trusting in God to lead you..

Now here is the prayer and may God Bless You!

A Prayer For Employment

EWTN

God, our Father, I turn to you seeking your divine help and guidance as I look for suitable employment.

I need your wisdom to guide my footsteps along the right path, and to lead me to find the proper things to say and do in this quest. I wish to use the gifts and talents you have given me, but I need the opportunity to do so with gainful employment.

Do not abandon me, dear Father, in this search, but rather grant me this favor I seek so that I may return to you with praise and thanksgiving for your gracious assistance.

Grant this through Christ, our Lord.

Amen

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Bless, 0 Lord of the centuries and the millennia, the daily work by which men and women provide bread for themselves and their loved ones. We also offer to your fatherly hands the toil and sacrifices associated with work, in union with your Son Jesus Christ, who redeemed human work from the yoke of sin and restored it to its original dignity. - Pope John Paul II

Giveaway Winner...Freebie...and Thoughts

2011-02-01T16:35:00.004-06:00

First I have a winner..Joy M. Congratulations and Thank You! to all who entered...As a little gift I am posting some Valentine Tags for

you to use for your personal items and things you created..just please don't sell the graphics. Simply right click on the tag image and it will take you to a larger image which you can save to your computer to print. It won't be long before Valentines Day will be here..it is a great holiday..I remember how excited I used to be as a child when we had a party at school..we used to make cute little Valentine Envelopes or Boxes...that we decorated for our exchange of Valentines. Now that was quite a long time ago since I am 65, but I have great memories of that time. Here is the tag sheet below..it should be printed letter size 8.5x11"...hint..I usually save my printables as .tiff images they are much clearer for printing than jpeg..hope that helps.

Now for my thoughts...as you can see by my sidebar..I have dedicated this site to The Holy Infant Jesus and St. Joseph for their protection and guidance..I have dedicated all my sites to their care...some places won't allow postings of extras..but I have still dedicated them.

I am Catholic..a convert of 40 years or more..I was not raised Catholic so I missed out on a lot of the traditions..those of you who are cradle Catholics are blessed. But I have decided to post some images, prayers and other postings to honor God the Father, Jesus our Savior, The Holy Spirit, The Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Joseph and other Saints and Angels. Like I said before I am 65 and let's face it ..my journey here is nearing the end..Although the Good Lord willing I would be grateful for another 20 or 30 years..I will leave that in his hands..

But I decided to dedicate more of my postings to God's Glory and I still will have goodies to share with you....crafts, recipes and freebies..because we all need positive things to occupy our spare time and there are so many wonderful little things our there.

I don't care what faith you practice....Catholic, Christian, Jewish ....this is not just a Catholic blog only..I welcome all Christians and those of other faiths to share in this blog..even if you don't have a faith..you are still welcome here. Faith is a gift of God..pray for it.

Now here is a little image of the Sweet Infant Jesus and St.Joseph...I love this image. Think how God choose St. Joseph to be the guardian of his Son and the Blessed Virgin Mary. St. Joseph is the patron saint of the Catholic Church, families, fathers, the unborn, firefighters, for a happy death, and workers as he was a carpenter. He was believed to have died before Jesus entered his public life..thus he is the patron of a happy death because he died with the presence of Jesus and Mary..may we all be blessed like him.

His concern with the protection of Jesus and Mary made him a great protector of families and a wonderful example for fathers.

I have often thought that in God's infinite wisdom St. Joseph was taken before Jesus entered his passion because he could not protect him from his death and passion. St. Joseph of all the people who have entered heaven must have been greeted with "Well done my good and faithful servant"

Today we can invoke his petitions on our behalf before his beloved foster son Jesus who greatly loved St. Joseph his earthly father with our special needs and petitions. I recently told my son not to forget to petition Good St. Joseph for work..as many people have had slow downs or have completely lost their employment due to the economy of today..I have great faith that he will provide. Below is an ancient prayer found in 50th year of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ..sometimes called the Unfailing Prayer to St. Joseph..I also posted a link here to more information on St. Joseph whose feast day is March 19th. this site Catholic On Line has lots more information if you are interested:..this is a great site. Now below is the prayer::

O St. Joseph, whose protection is so great, so strong, so prompt before the throne of God,

I place in thee all my interests and desires.

O St. Joseph, assist me by thy powerful intercession and obtain for me all spiritual blessings through

thy foster Son, Jesus Christ Our Lord,

so that, having engaged here below thy heavenly power, I may offer thee my thanksgiving and homage.

O St. Joseph,

I never weary contemplating thee and Jesus asleep in thine arms.

I dare not approach while He reposes near thy heart.

Press Him in my name and kiss His fine head for me,

and ask Him to return the kiss when I draw my dying breath.

St. Joseph, patron of departing souls, pray for me.

Well, I didn't mean to write a book..but I am happy for Joy M. and I love sharing my faith..May God Bless each of you and keep you and your family in his special care..til next time.

Last Chance for Teaprarty Giveaway..plus new goodies!

2011-01-31T12:52:00.000-06:00

My Teaparty Giveaway ends tonite at midnite CST so be sure and enter...it is the post right below this one..all rules are posted there.

I felt like sewing this morning so I created this tiny tote for a doll..such as Ginny, American Girl, Bleuette, Blythe. It is made of coton pink and green prints..inside is lined with green hearts..handle is of rickrack and front is accented with tiny yoyo and button trim..I also included
3 paperdolls, 2 paperdoll sheets and a group of 4 tiny notecards. You can find this in my etsy store. Gathering Goodies The little tote is appprox. 2.25x2.5" not including handles..so it is just the right size for your doll.

I also created two spring fleur pins for your tees, jackets, purse ect...they are pictured below and listed in my Etsy Store also.

And I am also relisting some vintage style travel luggage sticker sheets...these have been very popular...they are printed on 8.5x11' quality glossy sticker paper which is commercial wt. You simply cut out and peel off back to accent your various projects. Below are a couple of samples that are listed in my Etsy store

Well I got to get to work...orders need filling and my kitchen is covered with all my sewing notions and fabric everywhere. Plus I am making chicken and noodles for tonite.. Please don't forget to enter my contest before it ends tonite.. And please join me on my facebook page by clicking on the button in the side column. Thanks and have a good day!

Dolly Teaparty Giveaway ends Jan.31st.

2011-01-24T09:38:00.001-06:00

Ok..finally got some goodies gathered for a Jan. 31st. Teaparty Giveaway

First will be this set of 3 Little Dolly Dingles Doll ready for a teaparty....made of muslin with flora print backs..appros. size 5.5"

Next is this set of teacup pins...10 in all great party favors...approx. size 1 to 2" tall

Set of 8 Teacup Tags...approx. size 3.5x3.5" with matching ribbon ties..not all ivory as shown

A laminated sheet of Dolly Dingle Paperdolls approx. size 9x6.5"

3 Little Dolly Threadkeepers great for keeping lace, yarn etc...approx. 4.5" tall these are laminated

And last a $10 Gift Certificate to my Etsy Store Gathering Goodies

All you have to do to enter is leave a comment and become a follower of my blog..if you are already a follower..simply leave a comment.

If you don't have a blog..be sure and leave an email address.

And last here is a freebie I promise to add...This is an 8.5x11" letter size design...simply click on the image to enlarge it then right click to save to your computer.

You may print as many as you like for personal use only..please do not sell graphics in any form..you may use the tags you print to accent your handmade items..please give credit to GatheringGoodies for tags..Thanks so much!

Have a great day and be sure to check back often!

Prayer Request US "Darkhorse" 3rd Battalion 5th Marines

2011-01-23T15:43:00.001-06:00

I am posting this as a prayer request from my daughterinlaw on facebook..she is passing this on as a request from her friend

"At the request of a Facebook Friend- we are asking everyone to say a prayer for the US "Darkhorse" 3rd Battalion 5th Marines & their families.. They are fighting it out in Afganistan and have lost 9 Marines in 4 days.. Please re-post this.. It would be nice to see it on everyone's page!! even if it's only for an hour, come on guys... SHOW YOUR SUPPORT. God bless our troops and their families!

This is true...here is the link on snopes and there is more information about these troops..please read and then pray everyday for them
http://www.snopes.com/inboxer/prayer/darkhorse.asp

So please pray for these brave souls and their familes...and for those who have already given their all..

God Bless our Troops and hold them in the palm of your hand

Combined My Etsy Shops into one GatheringGoodies

2011-01-23T11:14:00.000-06:00

After having two shops on Etsy I decided to delete my PaperDollGatherings Shop and only have one GatheringGoodies.
By moving my items to GatheringGoodies..it saves me so much time..when I had two shops I had to sign in and out to work on my shops or answers questions conv. to me. So I am hoping this will save time and money....I love Etsy....although I don't see as much as thur my Ebay Shop..it is a lot more fun. I am having a sale at both Etsy and Ebay..5% off until Jan 31st.

I am also working on a facebook fan page GatheringGoodies...I have to admit..I don't know alot about facebook fan pages..they are very confusing and I don't know if anyone has even seen my page. I would appreciate you visiting my facebook page...leave a comment..I will be updating it and making new listings available. I would love to have you become a follower.

Besides working on my stores and filling orders...that's about all I have accomplished these past few months...I guess I have cabin fever because when it's cold I don't like to get out..although I do love Fall and Winter...the cold weather keeps me inside alot.

Have turned to making Valentine and Easter items...following the holidays. I do love those old graphics from these two holidays...especially the children...they are so cute.

I have also pulled out some crochet yarn and a book teaching you how to create crocheted items...I used to dabble in crochet, but I had forgot everything but chaining..so I had to refresh my memory..I have to have something to do while watching tv..I love making my little mini dolls and stuffing and stitching them while I watch TV . It is very relaxing.

Well, I am off to buy a new monitor..my went out last nite..I thought it was my computer..thank goodness it was only my monitor..less expensive...but I will be back after I get it set up and will bring you some new goodies...freebie...a new giveaway..Thanks for visiting..be sure to check back later today .

Fall Leaves and New Gatherings

2010-11-19T07:12:00.000-06:00

I took a walk around the pasture last week..really I did it several days in a row..I am trying to get my exercise. I figured if I walked the back pasture and the side pasture that would be a pretty good walk...I tried to make at least 3 rounds sometimes more.

I took some photos to share with you....first is my comfy shoes..not much on looks but they are really nice for walking. They are airwalk..the same folks that make those clogs like rubber shoes from Payless...not very expensive but easy on the feet which at my age is one of my biggest complaints. I usually buy my tennis shoes in the boys or mens department...they seem to feet my feet better.

Here are some photos of the back pasture...I look forward to this time of the year..it is my favorite. We have had very little rain and I was worried it would not be a pretty fall, but we did get some beautiful colors..I think it is going to peak this week.

This photo below is all the leafs I collected from the various trees...some of the trees are older than our house most likely 150 to 175 years old..we have lots of very old massive oaks, 3 walnuts, 1 pecan in the back yard and various other trees including a really massive sweet gum tree which my husband doesn't like because of all the gum balls it drops. But this tree is one of my favorites...it is so old that a chain is embedded in it..seems it grew around this..photo is below.

Now I cannot leave out the oaks..they remind me of gracious ladies...they are massive and stand at the front of our drive way..I think the original drive went between these trees.

I made some screen savers off some of these photos so that I can enjoy them through out the year. I really love our home..it's old about 120 years old and it is not fancy but it is comfy...kind of like your grandmothers home. The Photo below is a side view of our home. My husband is going to retire hopefully next year..he is well pass 65...we are praying to get to stay here during our remaining years. But who knows what our future will be with all that is going on in our country today..I feel very blessed to have this old farmhouse as our home..it has been here many years and hopefully it will be here many more. I love old houses and vintage items...that is why I love this old home....it used to stand on 120 acres but we only have 5 now...the old barn above was part of the original tract..it belongs to a neighbor...I wish the cows had been up by the house when I took the photos..they are our closest neighbors.

Hope I haven't bored you...but I love fall and wanted to share some of the colors with your.

Just listed some new cloth dollies in my new shop PaperDoll Gathering on Etsy...I really enjoy making these..two of the newer ones are made from vintage paperdolls.

Click Here To Buy

Click Here To View Sale

Click Here to View For Sale

Hope to be back soon...I am having an early Thanksgiving dinner for some of my kids and grandkids Sat. So I need to get busy...my turkey needs to be thawed and ready for the oven tonite. I usually cook my turnkey during the previous nite and that way he is ready by noon. We are having dressing..not homemade..I haven't made dressing in several years. But this dressing that is frozen is southern cornbread dressing and it is good. We are going to have a simple meal..sweet potatoes with marshmallow topping, homemade green beans, dressing, cranberry sauce, giblet gravy, Veg dip with fresh veggies, a cheese ball, black and green olives, pumpkin pie, cake and lots of turkey.
Hope you all have a great Thanksgiving...we have lots of blessings of which to be thankful...I am thankful for family and extended family and friends. And for this country and for the millions of people who share the same values and beliefs that this country was built on...as shown by this last election..I still have hope that we can get this country back on the right path...I have faith in God and my fellow Americans that we can turn the tide and that America once more will be

"The land of the free and the home of the brave"

God bless each and everyone and God Bless America!

New Etsy Shop Paper Doll Gatherings just opened

2010-11-06T09:14:00.001-05:00

Just open a new Etsy Shop..... Paper Doll Gatherings I still have my other etsy shop

Gathering Goodies What I decided to do is to put all my doll items such as doll pin sets, doll favors, handmade dolls, doll stickers, doll transfers etc into the Paper Doll Gathering Shop...and on my Gathering Goodies Shop...I have listed my retro and vintage items such as tags, iron-ons, sticker sheets etc.

That makes it easier to find items plus it gives me more sections...Etsy is becoming a good place for me...I've have been on Ebay for years... Gathering Goodies and speaking of my ebay store..I now have a 5% off sale going on for the next 7 days.....so please check out my items to save you on postage..my ebay store offers free postage with the purchase of $20 or more...but you must first wait for adjusted invoice before paying so that all items may be paid thur paypal with one payment.

Before I go here are a couple Christmas Designs from vintage post cards that you might like to use in your upcoming Christmas Decorating...a Stocking and a tag..they are for personal use only..Thanks and enjoy this lovely fall weather...until I post again..God Bless each and eveyone!

Thanksgiving Freebies

2010-10-31T15:34:00.002-05:00

Here are some Thanksgiving vintage style clipart from old postcards..just right clip and save to your computer to use for making projects: I am always looking for ways to save money and these images can be used to create great decorations for your Thanksgiving celebration.

Right click on the image below...that will take you to a larger image that you can save and print out place cards for your Thanksgiving Dinner..there are 8 to a sheet..they are sized to print on 8.5x11" cardstock. I use the 110lb kind that you can find at any walmart. Simply print, cutout, write your guest name below "Happy Thanksgiving" and place in the center of each dinner plate....All images are copyright by me and are not to be used in any way for profit they are personal use only.

Or go to Crate and Barrel and buy a set for $8.95, if you don't like making your own items...they are cute but printing your own will save you some money.

To create these cute Thanksgiving Placecards and Napkin rings to the link below at

Vintage Image Crafts.com

to find images and instructions for these two items...this site also has tons of very cute and free printables.

Well that's about it for now...I'll be back with more items...be sure and chech out my Etsy Store...I have listed some Wee Samta Ornies

A Halloween Trio

This set is a real bargain on sale...buy it and save it for next year.

Here is another Santa..he is larger and handpainted.

Handmade Santa

Lots more listed including sticker sheets for Christmas and some retro kitchen sticker sheets, santa tags, iron-on transfer sheets..so drop by and take a peek.

Thanks and happy crafting.

What's Wrong With This Picture?

2010-10-31T06:28:00.000-05:00

Just a quick note to add to my previous post about upcoming elections. Just heard on the news this morning that the Justice Dept is sending election observers to AZ. to make sure illegals are allowed to vote...but refuses to act on voter intimidation of black panthers in the last election...what is wrong in America!

Is this the way our country should be going...that is why this election is so important and your vote is so important...we are on the wrong track and need to get our country back to it's basic values.

I am reminded that AZ was in the report to the UN that this adm. filed on human rights....what have we come to...and what will our country look like in 5 to 10 years if people don't wake up and vote.

Looks like what Washington warned us about in his farewell address has come upon us.

Halloween, Voting, Fall, New Widget, Blessings

2010-10-30T19:19:00.000-05:00

Hello...now it is Halloween..some are trick or treating tonite and some tomorrow nite...but it is a great holiday for kids...look on the bright side...not the dark. I have fond memories of my childhood on trick or treating..We did not have store bought costumes..we made our own...but we did not feel shorted in any way what so ever..it was fun. We went all over our neighborhoods..without our parents...times were different way back then..it was a safer time for children then...not like today or even when my kids were young.

We got tons of candy and it was so exciting we always looked forward to it...it was not in anyway connected with devil worship or the darkside..it was a time for dressing up, laughing, going house to house with your friends...the cool nite air right at sundown..we couldn't wait to head out and after all our rounds we had a hugh bag of goodies to go thur and enjoy..it is such a sad reflection to compare back then with today...how things have changed.

But I hope your little ones enjoy this halloween as a happy time..some will go to harvest parties at churches that created a gathering for little ones...some will go thur their own neighborhood with parents in tow...but however you celebrate this fall holiday..enjoy it. I love this time of the year,,.last week some of my kids and grandkids visited and they created jol for my porch..we decorated the porch with lights, fall leaves and some little signs..I enjoy the lights at nite..tonite I will light the pumpkins, but we won't have any little visitors..although I bought some candy today...we live in the country on a highway and most parents take their children thur neighborhoods in town..I don't blame them...it can be very dangerous backing in and out of driveways with all the little Ghost and Goblins eager to collect candy. So be careful and make sure your little ones enjoy the nite and are safe. Remember you are making memories for their tomorrows and this day shall not come this way again.

If you will look to your right I have a new widget...it is a sad but true counter of the number of babies aborted since you started viewing my site..I found it on a friend's site from Africa...I felt I should have one on my site..we have to defend the most helpless among us...one day we will be asked what we did for the least of our brothers...this is the least we can do. If you would like one for your blog or site..click the link at the bottom and it will take you to a site that has the code.

And one more reminder...don't forget to vote..it is one of the most important and precious rights we have in the United States of America today....many, many people have gave their all...their very life for your right to vote...be accountable and honor their great sacrifice...by voting..and vote for what you know is right..we are at a critical time in our country...too many things have changed and not for the better..our way of life as Americans is at risk..our freedom, our beliefs, our traditions, our liberties are being eroded everyday..it is time to stand up and take our country back...VOTE.

REMEMBER::
"All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing."

Edmund Burke (1729 - 1797)

We are at a critical point in our history...you will be part of making history...now is the time for all to be accountable for the future of our country....for your children's future.

Before you go vote..read George Washingtons Farewell Address

This wise man led our country at it's very creation..he had wise words which apply to us today...read his farewell advise concerning the maintenance of the division of powers created by our Constitution..which is important for the perseverance of our Freedom and Liberties....the importance of payment of national debt...the very danger it imposes on us as a nation and the perils it creates as a threat to our very freedoms and survival as a free nation. And last but not least his advise on the paramount importance of religion and morality as the most efficacious means to maintain our country...

"Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, Religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of Patriotism, who should labour to subvert these great Pillars of human happiness, these firmest props of the duties of Men & citizens. The mere Politican, equally with the pious man ought to respect & to cherish them. A volume could not trace all their connections with private & public felicity. Let it simply be asked where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation desert the Oaths, which are the instruments of investigation in Courts of Justice? And let us with caution indulge the supposition, that morality can be maintained without religion. Whatever may be conceded to the influence of refined education on minds of peculiar structure--reason & experience both forbid us to expect that National morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle.

'Tis substantially true, that virtue or morality is a necessary spring of popular government. The rule indeed extends with more or less force to every species of Free Government. Who that is a sincere friend to it, can look with indifference upon attempts to shake the foundation of the fabric"
George Washington United States 19th September 1796

Well from Halloween to Washington...got kind of windy tonite..but I firmly believe every word and I can not sit silently by without expressing what I believe. Our children's and grandchildren's future is at stake.

So enjoy the holiday, enjoy your kids, enjoy the fall and vote!

Halloween and Fall Here ...War Eagle Craft Fair...and Christmas is coming

2010-10-14T06:16:00.000-05:00

Halloween and fall are here..even though it is very dry down here..it's nice to see the leaves. If we could get just a little rain..that might make the fall leaves more colorful..everythng is so dry.

I must admit..I have not put one Halloween or Fall decoration up..except some window clings..I have got to do that next week because some of my grandkids are coming and I love this time of year..I have been busy and lazy too!

I have been making and selling decorations in my stores but not made any for myself...what's that saying.."the shoemaker's kids have no shoes"

But here is a little recipe to make some ornies if you have one of those little Halloween trees..I used to sell these and they turned out so cute and smelled so good. I don't have photos of the bats, cats and ghosts that I also made, but here are some little JOLs.

First here is a basic recipe for dough ornies...you can find lots more on line:

½ cup salt
1 cup flour
½ cup water

In a small pan heat salt and water to melt salt...this will keep your dough from being grainy.
Then mix flour, salt and water mixture in bowl and knead til dough is soft and workable.
On a sheet of wax paper roll dough out to about 1/8 to 1/4" thickness...cut dough with a round
cookie cutter or biscuit cutter in the size you wish your ornies to be. Poke a hole in the ornie for hanger.
Cover a cookie sheet with aluminum foil for easy clean up and bake ornies for about an hour
in 200 degree oven...check often to see when they are dry.
After they are cooled..paint with orange acrylic paint...now here is the fun part...with ivory, black and gold acrylic paints start making their little faces..I love doing this..just use your imagination.
After they are completely dry...dip them twice in melted parafin wax with a scented oil added to it for a wonderful aroma..only dip them twice letting the dry between dippings.
You can find several ways to melt your parafin wax on the web...but be very careful and never leave it unattended...I used several drops of scent oil to give it a great scent.
I also fashioned a piece of wire about 6" long into a "V" shape to hang my ornies on for dipping.

Now I know Halloween is not here yet and I don't want to rush fall because I love this time of the year, but in my shops on Ebay and Etsy..I have to look ahead just a little and I am now offering Christmas items..I started by creating some vintage inspired Christmas Tags...I only have a few now...hope to get some listed this week or next..here are some of the new Tags..these are approx. 5" tall and are printed on brown Kraft cardstock with plain white twine hangers:

If you are interested in any of these ornies..you can drop by my Etsy Shop or just send me an email and I can send you the information on how to purchase these..they are $3.50 for a set of 5 and they are packaged in a clear cello bag and mailed in a rigid photo mailer....I will be happy to combine shipping for you to save money..I also offer free shipping on orders of $20 or more via first class mail or priority when wt. requires...free shipping only applies to my blog orders.

Ok..hope to post again shortly with some more goodies..I am going to War Eagle Craft fair this weekend with my two sisters..so I won't be around from Fri. til late Sunday nite....I am really excited...besides the craft fair at War Eagle mill which is one of the largest in the nation..we are staying in Eureak Springs..a wonderful little historic town nestled in the Ozark mountains with tons of shops and lots of old victorian houses. I love to ride the trolley and visit the shops ...it is called the ltttle Switzerland of the Ozarks because it is built in the mountains..St. Elizabeths Catholic Church is a beautiful church sitting right below the famous Crescent Hotel..you enter via the bell tower.. I have attended Mass on previous occassions and it is a beautiful church. Hope to bring back some photos.

Til then..you all have a wonderful day and may God Bless each and everyone of you and your families.

Welcome Fall

2010-09-30T06:12:00.002-05:00

Hello...been gone for the summer, but now that Fall is here hope to get on here more.

I have been busy working on my stores at Etsy and Ebay...here are some of my new tags.

Here are some of my new Halloween

Grain Sack Pillows, Transfers, Doll Tags and YoYo Pin Giveaway

2010-04-28T07:02:00.001-05:00

Since Grain Sack Pillows are so popular and vintage grain sacks are so expensive..plus the pillows created from them..I decided to create some of my own...since I don't have deep pockets and I wanted some of these pretty pillows.

First I created some mini pillows as shown below...I made some that said

"sachet" and filled these with poly fill and lavender buds for a nice little

sachet.

Then I created some mini pillow sets with words...this set is "Flour, Sugar, Coffee" and the set below that was "Faith, Hope, Love" both of these sets

came out approx. 5x6" perfect size for boxes, bowls, baskets ect.

Next I created a design for a larger accent size pillow..These came out approx. 8x10" The 'DISH TOWEL" Pillow is listed in my Ebay Store for

for $8 postage is free.

Then I created some iron on heat transfers so that you can create your own pillows...I have two different sets..the first is a mini set that you can make pillows approx. 6x5"..."Sugar, Flour, Coffee" and the second set makes pillows approx. 8x10" "SALT, FLOUR, SUGAR". These are currently on sale in my Ebay Store "Gathering Goodies"

I am hoping to add additional transfers.."Bon Appetit" and some with plain stripes no wording..I would be happy to hear suggestions for new pillows...any suggestions for new wording would be appreciated.

I also added some new tags...some dolly dingle tags..and some new vintage stye paper doll tags...the last set is laminated.

My daughter Mandy...is having a giveaway on her blog "fweetmom" for a very cute Yoyo Pin...this would make a great accent to your summer shirts or a cute addition to any tote or purse. Be sure to visit her blog..simply sign up to follow and when she gets 25 new follwers she will announce the winner..I know it is hard to get started in blogging and attracting new followers..so please visit her blog..she has some really cute items and as a mother of three sweet girls..she is always coming up with new ideas. Here is a link to her blog

"fweetmom"

I thank you for viewing and I am always interested in your suggestions and comments......be sure to check back soon as I hope to be offering some new freebies and a new giveaway. My 10% off sale will be going on in my Ebay Store until May 9th..so take advantage of the savings...Thanks!

A Modge Podge of Goodies Plus Freebie Spring Tag

2010-04-07T10:10:00.006-05:00

I have a few things to share with you today..kind of a modge podge of items..but they are really neat

First is this tutorial I found yesterday from a really neat blog

Amazing Mae

It is a very nice tutorial on making an eyeglass case and it is so cute. Just click on the link above to go to the tutorial She also has an Etsy shop where she sells the cutes little Soldered Glass Charm Pendants plus PDF pattern downloads that she creates. Her shop on Etsy is called

May & Mae

so be sure to visit both sites.

Another tutorial, sorry no photos is from

J.Caroline Creative!

This is a great tutorial for making your own pillowcases and it is a very simple, easy to use tutorial..very well written with photos...this is a great little jewel to keep for future reference..you can create so many nice pillowcases with this tutorial..especially with all the wonderful fabrics that are out there today...This site also sells ribbons by the roll that are so beautiful.

This is a great idea from

Whipup.net

A tutorial on how to make a mason jar pincushion sewing kit..this site has tons of great ideas.

I just listed some new tags..in my Etsy Store some are digital downloads and some are precut printed.

Here are some of the new designs..I created several for Vendor Tags..I have a booth at a really neat flea market and I use these to label my items..(hint on the digital downloads you can add your name and vendor number..if you have a paint program.)

Here are some of the precut printed tags

Here is my new design in digital labels which are sent via email for you to save and print on your own computer..you can print these on cardstock or adhesive backed paper to make them stickable.

This is a new spring design..hope to add more later this week.

I also have some various Babushka design items in my Etsy store ..such as a sachet doll, Pillow, Tags, & Pins

Plus I created some new Lavender Sacks and posted the trio in my ebay store

Gathering Goodies

And last I have made a little Sewing Tag for you to print to accent some of your creative products.

Simply click on tag to go to larger image and save to your desktop to print tags ...design is not to be sold in any form..it is intended for making tags for your personal use or to tag items you make.

Hope you have a great day..Thanks for viewing and please leave a comment..I enjoy reading your post.

Giveaways, New Shops and Blessings

2010-04-05T07:12:00.004-05:00

Good Morning got lots of Goodies to share...first my daughter Jenny who is a graphics designer..opened a new shop on Etsy where she is featurng digital paper pack downloads for all your scrapbooking needs such as the pack below

which is named

-- Summer Sweetness Digital Paper Pack --

Fresh, light, and full of summer, this paperpack was inspired by beautiful pink and red watermelon tones with an elegant black solid to complement. The papers are are lightly textured in canvas and have subtle distressing effects.

They are 12"x12" 300 dpi JPG files deliverd with in 24 hours.

So please hop over and take a look at these very trendy designs.

Taylor Nicole Designs

I am so proud of Jenny as well as all my other kids..you may remember Mandy one of my other daughters has a shop where she sells handmade goodies

"fweets mom"

I am really blessed with my children and grandchildren...I have 6 grown children with 15 grandkids...I am very proud of all of them.

Very seldom do we all get together at the same time...but they are all great people..my three sons are so good about helping us..we have two electrians and an aircondition manager..so you can guess we don't have to worry about anything being fixed.

I also have another daughter who is an RN who has been a real lifesaver for us...especially helping with my husband's medical needs.

Not to forget the other sons and daughters who came into our family by marriage..we have been blessed.

I also wanted to share a photo of Ariel one of our grandaughters who was baptised Easter Sunday..I am so happy for her and her parents Jason and Bridget...it was a very beautiful service with a delicious meal afterwards in their fellowship hall...they just finished their new church. It is such a beautiful setting I wished I had photos of their new church..my son Jason helped build it and Bridget is helping organize thier dedication ceremony

Here is the only photo I got..but she is so pretty...sorry Ariel I did not get your beautiful little Easter hat..

Isn't she beautiful..I don't know how all my children and grandchildren are so beautiful..it certainly did not come from me..

I also wanted to share a great giveaway with you..

the Creative place

Be sure to go over and enter..you get your choice of two different wonderful

gifts...it ends..Tues. morning April 6th. Great Giveaway!

Hop over to this blog to visit her new shop and enter a great giveaway!

Clover Cottage

She is opening a new blog shop and having a giveaway ending

Wednesday 14th April all you have to do is leave a comment on her blog or become a follower of her new shop.

Shabby Polka Dots

She describes it as

"A little shop of my makes, finds, and lots of other pretty things. Do come in, and have a browse!"

And she is so right..so many cute and pretty items..I wish her the best.

One last thing before I go...here is another photo

"From My Kitchen Window"

Easter sunrise..notice the cross in the sky left my planes...so timely.

I'll be back later and bring you some new goodies....

Thank you Lord for this beautiful sunrise and all the other blessings you send us....Thank you!

Happy Easter, Babushka Doll Tags and Pins NEW

2010-04-04T06:45:00.003-05:00

Good morning..and Happy Easter to everyone. It is going to be a beautiful day here..hope it is very nice where you are.

I have created some new items..they are on ebay and etsy.

First are some new pins...Little Babushka Doll Pins ...They come 10 to package and make great favors for teaparties or doll clubs.

Next is a set of 8 Tags..they are also listed in both shops or

you can email me to purchase either of these here.

I really like doing thses in the bright sprng colors..

Happy Easter..Have a wonderful day.

Easter Triduum Holy Week

2010-04-02T12:55:00.001-05:00

I have decided to post about the Easter Triduum or by linking to some site that are far more informative than myself...in fact after being a convert for many, many years..I am just learning some of the facts and traditions of my faith..which I must admit does not speak highly of myself..but I have found it very inspiring and has really helped me greatly during the season of lent which is now approaching the end.

I hope these will be a source of inspiration and faith to you also...after this post I will not post again until after the celebration of Easter. I have decided not to post about my interest in crafting until then.

Easter Triduum

From Catholic Culture.org

The Easter Triduum begins with the evening Mass of the Lord's Supper, is continued through Good Friday with the celebration of the Passion of the Lord and Holy Saturday, reaches its summit in the Easter Vigil, and concludes with Vespers of Easter Sunday.

This time is called "the triduum of the crucified, buried and risen"; it is also called the "Easter Triduum" because during it is celebrated the Paschal Mystery, that is, the passing of the Lord from this world to his Father. The Church by the celebration of this mystery, through liturgical signs and sacramentals, is united to Christ her Spouse in intimate communion. — Paschales Solemnitatis

Holy Thursday

Every year, the Church celebrates the great mysteries of the redemption of mankind in the "most sacred triduum of the crucifixion, burial and resurrection". The Sacred Triduum extends from the Mass of the Lord's Supper to Vespers on Easter Sunday and is celebrated "in intimate communion with Christ her Spouse". — Directory on Popular Piety

Good Friday

"It is accomplished; and bowing His head He gave up His spirit."

In the evening my church is having the Stations of the Cross...you can also read them on line by clicking link below...thanks to Catholic Culture.org...a wonderful site full of so much information.

Stations of the Cross

Also it is on Good Friday preferably at 3:00 in the afternoon that

The Divine Mercy Novena

we begin...leading up to Devine Mercy Sunday which is

the Sunday after Easter Sunday.

A novena is 9 days of prayers

EWTN

best explains it here:

"Background of the Divine Mercy Devotion"

"From the diary of a young Polish nun, a special devotion began spreading throughout the world in the 1930s. The message is nothing new, but is a reminder of what the Church has always taught through scripture and tradition:that God is merciful and forgiving and that we, too, must show mercy and forgiveness. But in the Divine Mercy devotion, the message takes on a powerful new focus, calling people to a deeper understanding that God’s love is unlimited and available to everyone — especially thegreatest sinners.

The message and devotion to Jesus as The Divine Mercy is based on the writings of
Saint Faustina Kowalska, an uneducated Polish nun who, in obedience to her spiritual director, wrote a diary of about 600 pages recording the revelations she received about God’s mercy. Even before her death in 1938, the devotion to The Divine Mercy had begun to spread."

Catholic Culture.org also has information about

The Devine Mercy Sunday

Saint Faustina.com

Has this coloring picture..to download for your children to color.

Holy Saturday

Once again from Catholic Culture.org...I cannot say enough about this site.

"On Holy Saturday the Church waits at the Lord's tomb, meditating on His suffering and death. The altar is left bare, and the sacrifice of the Mass is not celebrated.

Only after the solemn vigil during the night, held in anticipation of the resurrection, does the Easter celebration begin, with a spirit of joy that overflows into the following period of fifty days. "

I wish everyone has a Blessed Easter.

I will be posting after Easter about more crafts...thank you for visiting these post about Easter.

May God Bless You and Your Family.

New Sachet Dolls

2010-04-01T14:05:00.002-05:00

Just listed some new Sachet Dolls in my Ebay store

Gathering Goodies

Here is the first set...contains 4 Dolls

Second set contains 5 dolls

Plus I am designing some Lavender Babushka Sachet Dolls

I am still working on my designs but I do have one listed on

my Etsy Store Gathering Goodies. This is a little larger approx. 6" tall

The back is pink and green polka dot fabric

I will be adding a set of Babushka Doll Tags this evening.

Thanks so much..I am running a little behind on posting for Holy Week...I will try and get that posted tonite.

Have a good day..Thanks!

Doll Sachets and Large Lot Auction plus 15% off SALE

2010-03-31T00:43:00.006-05:00

Just a quick note to show some Doll Sachets I have listed on Ebay and Etsy.

One more note...I have a 15% off sale going in my Ebay Store til the 9th. April...plus if you purchase $20 or more you get free shipping..but you must wait for combined invoice before paying...this is very important..Thanks

First here are two Dolly Dingle Lavender Sachet Dolls Sets that I have listed in my Ebay Store...Gathering Goodies

Whoops booth are sold..but I will try and list another set on ebay tonite...the one on Etsy is still there

Then in my Etsy Shop Gatherig Goodies..I have listed another set

I also have listed an auction on ebay here for a large lot of

Easter Goodies.

Just a little update...I have to restock my booth tomorrow, but will be back to post another Holy Week post for Wed.

I hope you are having a good week...and please don't forget to pray for our country...prayer makes a difference.

Tuesday Of Holy Week...A Gift

2010-03-30T08:12:00.001-05:00

As I was wondering what I could post today in regard to Holy Week..I looked out my kitchen window as the sun was just starting to rise...at first the sky was empty but a soft glow of pink filled the sky..the sun was not yet to be seen. Then suddenly the sun appeared and I thought what a beautiful picture this would be..so I got my camera...went to the porch and took several photos..what I noticed when I was taking the photos was a cross that appeared from the sun...

I don't have to worry about what to post..the Good Lord supplied my needs with this beautiful sunrise..what more could I add.

Thank you Lord for letting the sun rise on this new day...

thank you for letting us have this new day...

thank you for taking our place on the cross.

May we all pause and remember what Easter is all about.

Here is the photo...I will post some Easter Craft links later today...I don't want to take away from the beautiful gift that was sent my way this morning.

Thanks!

Holy Week

2010-03-29T08:40:00.002-05:00

We adore Thee, O Christ, and we praise Thee.

Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast redeemed the world.

I am posting today and this week about Holy Week...I hope to highlight some things that will inspire you and some post for mothers of young children to help them share their faith with their children. I will also include links for all ages..even oldies like myself to help us appreciate the importance of this week for all Christians.

Instead of focusing on everyday crafting this week..I plan to focus on the events of this week as related to Our Lord's Passion and Resurrection at Easter.

I will post some links for activities for children and all ages...personally..I find that sometimes the simple ways of children may also be the best way for us to follow Our Lord.

But before I get to the links...

Here are today's Mass Readings...You can find them here:

EWTN

First Reading: Isaiah 42:1-7

Psalm: Psalm 27:1-3, 13-14

Gospel: John 12:1-11

Psalms 27: 13 - 14

13 I believe that I shall see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living!

14 Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; yea, wait for the LORD! ------------------------------------------------------------------------

Psalms 27: 13 - 14

First link relates to our blessed palms from Mass Palm Sunday: This link my daughter sent to me..it is a good link to make palm frond crosses...I was happy to get this because I have been wanting to learn to do this.

Here is the link to her site SILVERKEYS.WRITES

In this photo notice the embroidery of the symbols Chi Rho which stands for the first two letters in the Greek spelling of the word “Christ.” Very talented lady and I thank her very much for this tutorial:

Now here are some links for Catholic Mothers for Stations of the Cross design for children..this one you can view on line or download as a pdf file..I did that and it is a very simple way of the cross..made for children but I think adults will find this very interesting also: It is from Loyola Press and it may be found here LOYOLA PRESS

And for adults I found this site Fisheaters.com with a very inspiring Way of the Cross with the

"Stabat Mater -- a hymn known since at least 1388 A.D. Now my computer has my Dish Network radio hooked up on it so that I can listen to Old Time radio shows in the house..therefore I cannot hear this beautiful hymn..but I am going to burn it on a CD to play in my car.

I am ashamed to say... I am a convert for many years and this was the first time I heard this hymn sung at Stations of the Cross..that is one reason I am doing these post about Holy Week especially for mothers...I wish I had these links while I was raising my children as being a convert..I did not have the background of being raised in a Catholic home with all the wonderful traditions.

Here is another link I found very nice from OUR SUNDAY VISTOR it is The Eggs-traordinary Easter Egg by Ann Ball...it tells about how the Easter Egg became a symbol for early Christians...I think you will enjoy this very much and mothers might take time to relate these stories to their children while they create Easter Eggs with their children.

Here is a rather large list found at CATHOLIC MOMS.COM for you to expore with your children:

Easter Coloring

Jelly Bean Prayer

Ideas for Decorating Easter Cookies

A New Type of Easter Egg Hunt

Dippity Do - Fun With Easter Eggs

Healthy Easter Basket Ideas

Great Ideas for Easter Meals

Easter Traditions: Seven Ways to Add Meaning to Your Family Celebration

Jeweled Easter Egg Wreath Craft

Quick Easter Decorating Tips for Your Fireplace

Easter Traditions On A Budget

Ten Tips for Frugal and Healthy Easter Baskets

Easy Easter Crafts for Kids

Get Some Help Finding Good Easter Craft Ideas

Take the Expense Out of Your Easter Celebration

Easter Scrapbooking Ideas for your Family

Adding Meaning To Your Family's Easter Celebration

Eggs-Travagant Easter Eggs Without All the Hassle

Easter Eggs: Tiny Works of Heart

I hope those of you who are not Catholic will enjoy some of these links also..I am posting these links from a Catholic point of view..but all Christians celebrate Our Lords Passion and Resurrection and I hope to share my faith with all Christians and non christians during this wonderful week ending in Easter Sunday.

Now before I go...here are two sheets for you to download and use for your Easter Crafts..simply right click for larger image and save to your computer to use in creating Easter Crafts: These are sized 8.5x11" for printing and if you wish to print iron-on transfers, please remember to mirror your graphics before printing .

Thank you so much for visiting and I hope you enjoy this special week...be sure to follow each day as i hope to present more ideas to help us focus on the journey of Our Lord thur his Passion this Holy Week ending in the most wonderful gift ever bestowed on the world ..Our Salvation thur...Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Please pray for our country...in view of the recent events...we are not on the right path...if we do not defend the most helpless among us...what does that say about us as a nation.

Our nation needs prayer now more than anyother time in our history.