We are rapidly approaching what will be our first Christmas with children. My husband and I have been prayerfully discerning how to truly live this blessed holiday, begin family traditions that honor the true spirit of the feast

A few years ago a dear friend of ours mailed us a beautiful Christmas card with Mary and Jesus on the front.  It’s  probably taken from an original painting because the artistry and colors are absolutely gorgeous. 

The “Twelve Days of Christmas” refer to the eight days of the Christmas Octave from December 25 to New Years Day

Merry Christmas 2008 with love and prayers from the Hendey Family!
Greg, Lisa, Eric and Adam

I thought you might enjoy this historical perspective on our celebration of Christmas, offered by Franciscan Father Greg Friedman, O.F.M.

In her column last week, Kelly the Kitchen Kop gave us a sneak peek at her home all decorated for Christmas.  Kelly’s post inspired me to grab my iPhone and take a quick tour of my home to share with you.

Thanks to my friend Martha for sharing this classic!
Dear Santa,
I’ve been a good mom all year. I’ve fed, cleaned and cuddled my children on demand, visited the doctor’s office more than my own doctor, sold sixty-two cases of candy bars to raise money

Motherhood is a sacred ministry.  All of us know this and yet sometimes I think we tend to forget this in the hustle and bustle of the holidays as well as the ups and downs of just being moms. 

They say the most stressful time of year is during the holidays. Why is that?

What do the Nativity and country line dancing have in common?  Both figured predominantly this week in the annual Christmas pageant at our Catholic school

I just have to share this video of my Catholic musician friend Gerard Faucheux from Mississippi who took advantage of their rare snowstorm to shoot an impromptu music video. 

I’m happy to share one of my favorite Christmas cookie recipes as a part of today’s Christmas Cookie Swap over at Faith and Family Live!

Help!  I’ve misplaced something extremely valuable to me, and I honestly have no idea where it vanished to.  The holidays are coming so I must find it immediately. 

Thanks to Susan Bailey for a great run down of Top Catholic Songs top ten Christmas albums for this year,