Adventures in preparing for your Second Reconciliation

   Part of the excitement around here is that the date for Liam's First Holy Communion is fast approaching. In addition to picking out cake flavors, and figuring out the guest list; we are also talking a lot about the Mass ~ specifically the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

   We also did a bit of backtracking this week preparing Liam for his second Reconciliation.  During an impromptu review session I discovered that he remembered the steps of the rite, but the idea of an Examination of Conscience was in need of a refresher.

As it happens, I had recently been given a copy of Kimberly Fries' book on that very subject.  The book takes a lovely, direct approach, encouraging the child to pray before a crucifix or the Blessed Sacrament and using the Ten Commandments as a guide ask themselves key questions.  Fries does a wonderful job aiming the questions at the early elementary age level; my 2nd grader who reads at grade level needed help reading a few of the words but understood what was being asked throughout. I like the framework and the creativity and sensitivity shown around the more 'adult' commandments such as the 6th.  Overall a wonderful addition to our library and one that will definitely get a lot of use.

I was provided a copy of Examination of Conscience for Little Ones in return for my honest review.

Quick Takes vol #27

1. The first week of the semester went reasonably well.  Charlie said Elisabeth was very sad to see him go at yesterdays drop-off.  Hopefully she will quickly adjust to the idea that yes we are leaving for the day, but we will always come back.  
2. Additionally at only two days a week I'm also hoping that they come to mean 'playing with other kids days' rather than no mommy.  Oh well, a girl can dream.
3. The first day with students went very well with a couple getting to see a delivery and another student largely getting over her fear of newborns.  I actually really admire her attitude, she asked to be assigned to the nursery first because that was the aspect of Maternity which frightened her most and she wanted to face her fear right away.  Not always my approach but certainly a laudable one.
4. Getting new patio doors today.  We have been in our house five years, and have been doing a lot of home projects this summer.  Making me wonder if this is the norm: you do the critical stuff when you first move then you live in the house for a few years and decide what else really needs doing.  Not counting of course the things that fall-over on their own accord and not according to your schedule.
5. R.I.P Edward Kennedy and Eunice Kennedy Shriver, may God grant you lasting peace and grant comfort to those left behind.  Having volunteered at Special Olympics and had family in MA my whole life my thoughts and feelings are still a jumble and may become a coherent post later.  Two things I believe in: the forgiveness of sins and living your life so as to give back with the gifts given to you are good things.
6. New phrase this week: 'Yes, pees'.  New favorite show: 'Fifi and the Flowertots', personally I'd  rather watch 'Top Chef' but know how to share the remote.
7. Yummy Shepard's Pie this week, planning a chili for next: Thank heavens for leftovers!

Thanks for visiting, please enjoy the host round-up at Conversion Diary hosted by Jen