Going Monastic This Weekend

This morning we are having light lessons, mostly reading, for mr. Sam, I am. Right now he is working on some handwriting practice. Little John Paul and Maryn will be allowed Sesame Street and a Veggie Tales sing along so as to keep them from getting too "creative" ~smiling~ while mommy packs a suitcase for them and for me.

This afternoon I will be checking into the Spiritual Life Center, close by, for a silent retreat. An all weekend silent retreat. I am both looking forward to it and dreading it. It has been three years since I've been on a retreat, so this will be wonderful time to pray and mull over with our Lord all that I ponder in my heart, but, admittedly, I am a homebody at heart and find it difficult to detach from my family. I mentioned to my friend Denise that I am so accustomed to praying within and around our family circus that I wonder if I'll be able to pray within silence ~laughing~. I love silence but I am just having a hard time imagining silence for two whole days!!

For my loved ones who read this blog, but for the life of them would never, ever admit it ~wink, wink~ there are some very inspiring posts to read and be fortified with ...

Denise has a very inspiring quotable post today on not quitting...on further thought, go on down through her other recent posts as well!
Alice has more adventures from San Francisco, with plenty of laughter and pure sunshine, to share
Dawn has yet another warming example of why it is so important doing what we women do
Kristin also mentions how our routines (and wonderful outings to a children's garden) work their ways into our children's hearts
Annie has a link where you could purchase a Beautiful prayer manual or peruse her blog and print many of the prayers from this manual that she has shared
Jennie, always witty, is an ongoing example of brave, loving motherhood amidst trial

Have a wonderful weekend!

God Love You and Keep You