Seven Quick Takes Volume V: Lenten Edition

-1-

Made vegetable stock to (hopefully) last for all the Fridays in Lent. 

Got off to such a beautiful start...

-2-

But somehow I was distracted...

And ended up with a little bit of this...

Honestly, I don't think my kids would recognize my cooking without a little bit o' the black stuff, so it's all good.

-3-

Ten long years ago, when my darling Jude was four, he gave up chocolate covered gummy bears for Lent. Ever seen one? Neither have we. A decade of maturity has rested heavily on his shoulders, and this year, he announced he is giving up (drum roll)...

chocolate covered gummy bears. Rebel.

He looks more like James Dean every day.

I'm not kidding.

-4-

We visited a different parish than the one we belong to for Ash Wednesday, and lucky us, they were giving out these bracelets.

My first thought, because I am cynical and sinful, was "cheesy and gimicky!" But after wearing it for the last two days, I am really appreciating the visual reminder of the season. Shows me!

-5-

We received this book in the mail just last week.

"The Way of the Cross" with Pope Benedict. I kid you not, on Sunday night, just before the announcement, I picked it up and asked Obi if he would like to pray and reflect on one of these every night during Lent, kind of living the way of the cross, reorienting ourselves at the close of the day. Of course he agreed, he's Obi. Papa Benny wrote these beautiful reflections just weeks before becoming Pope. So much goodness therein.

-6-

Trying to have the kids memorize this prayer by St. Ignatius for Lent:

Soul of Christ, sanctify me.

Body of Christ, save me.

Blood of Christ, inebriate me.

Water from the side of Christ, wash me. 

Passion of Christ, strengthen me.

O good Jesus, hear me.

Within your wounds, hide me.

Never let me be separated from you.

From the malignant enemy, defend me.

At the hour of death, call me;

and bid me to you.

That with the saints I may praise you

forever and ever.

Amen.

Oh my that is beautiful.  Would it be wrong to make copies with a five dollar bill attached to those who abide by my wishes? Just askin'!

-7-

(because seven is the magic number

to join the quick takers, but I have

nothing else to say about Lent, enjoy

some Momo)