Advent Tradition, Old and New
When I was growing up, my family did not have an Advent wreath, since my grandparents (who raised me) were barely practicing Protestants. I went to the Catholic church, so I saw the Advent wreath there, and learned what Advent was through religious education at my parish. But I don’t think I realized until college that individual families could have Advent wreaths in their homes. Oops. My education in Advent traditions began then, and continues to grow with each passing year. I now relish the weekend after Thank

Finally!
I have been listening to Christmas music since Friday morning; I love it! My new favorite album for this Advent is Sarah McLachlan’s Wintersong. She really has such a beautiful voice. Happy Liturgical New Year, and First Sunday of Advent! Do you have your wreath out yet?

Happy (early) Thanksgiving
Hello Friends! As we are having a guest arrive tonight (my grandparents next door neighbor who has been like a mom to me — she knew me before I was born! She met my mom for the first time when she was pregnant with me, how cool is that?) and she will be here for the holiday and until Saturday. I’m so excited to have her here and show her all around our new city! Anyway, since I will be busy showing her the sights, then prepping a turkey, making a carrot cake, and of course THANKSGVING, I’ve decided now is a good time to take a short blogging break. I’ll be back some time this weekend. I pray that you and all your families have a won

Chapel Veil – Part 2 (of 2)
Just when you thought the chapel veil was tired and went to bed, I decided to wake her up. Just kidding, sort of. I wanted to give an update and also respond to some of the wonderful comments that people left about the first chapel veil post. After praying more after that post was written, I have discerned that at least for now, God is calling me to wear the chapel veil. Sunday morning rolled around, and I stuffed my veil in my purse to put on upon entering Church. I felt a small pang of nervousness as we walked in, wondering things like: What will people think? Will they judge me

Thanksgving Recipe — Sweet Potatoes
I found this recipe from Better Homes and Gardens November 2009 issue. Prep: 45 minutes  Bake: 36 minutes  Oven: 350 degrees 4 1/2 lbs. sweet potatoes 2 tbsp. olive oil 1 tbsp. salt 1/2 cup butter 2/3 cup whipping cream or half and half 2 tbsp. maple syrup (sugar free please) 1/4 tsp. nutmeg 1 tsp. salt 2 cups mini marshmallows (optional) 1/4 – 1/2 cup pecan halves, toasted 1. Pre-heat oven to 350. Scrub potatoes and prick with a fork. Brush with olive oil. Sprinkle salt over potatoes. Place potatoes in 15×10x1-inch baking pan. Roast, uncovered, 30 to 40 minutes or until sof