Our speaker series has begun. Dr. Mae Barker was our first speaker talking about parenting solutions. A few good take aways that I have are that "As parents we basically regulate sugar and technology." That's so true! I asked about my negative child. Mae suggested making it fun and turning it into a game. Picky eaters? Check out this book. I also use Positive Parenting a lot if anyone wants to borrow it. That's another Mae suggestion.
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| "If two children are having an argument, and mama is not in the house to hear it...did the argument happen?" |
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| Getting down and giving practical tips to Alison |
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| Hand out on reward system (zoom in) |
SLEEP!
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We had a bunch of pop up play dates to parks, the indoor playground and the zoo. We also had a weekend play date to Amazing Grace Crop Maze. The play dates are a great way to get to know other moms and have your children make friends, too.
  
For our second meeting in October, we had Onie Lee talk to us about spirituality. I just love Onie! She's an amazing woman and gave us wonderful information and challenged us to be the real spiritual coach for our families and friends. One thing I'm going to work on (in addition to praying MORE) is to get a spiritual dream team for each of my children. I love that concept!
Here are a list of apps she recommends:
Word Among Us -
This is the daily scripture reflection app I use.
Focus Equip-
Focus is a college ministry but this app has small group bible studies and good video reflections.
Busted Halo -
Busted Halo is a unique media resource that utilizes a relevant and accessible voice to help people understand the Catholic faith, put it into practice in their everyday lives, and share it with others.
Pray As You Go-
“Pray As You Go” is probably my favorite for any woman who struggles to find dedicated, quiet time in her life. The 15 minute (or less) segments are a perfect way to start my mornings as I drive to work. The music is always wonderful and the reflections are encouraging and thoughtful without being too deep for a 6:30 a.m. commute. “Pray As You Go” also offers audio prayers, Imaginative Contemplation Exercises, an audio Rosary & Stations of the Cross, and an audio Examen.
Reimagining the Examen
“Reimagining the Examen” is an interactive App that leads you through a series of Examens, encouraging you to sit in prayer with God each day. You can select an examen (relationships, habits, fears, etc.) and select your own background music. This would be the perfect app for someone needing guidance during evening prayer or reflection during Adoration.
Laudate
“Laudate” is the classic, all-encompassing Catholic app. It offers daily readings, the Liturgy of the Hours, a Confession app, prayers, links to the Catechism and other Church documents, and so much more. It is a useful tool for any Catholic wanting just about anything related to your Faith at your fingertips.
“Formed.org” is like Catholic Netflix. It offers studies, videos, audio recordings, ebooks, and a range of materials for kids. It is the perfect app for media-loving Catholics who really want to help their media consumption be more fulfilling and spiritual. While “Formed.org” does require a monthly fee for access to all the materials, check with your parish, as many offer their parishioners’ free access to all the wonderful content.
Relevant Radio
“Relevant Radio” is essentially Catholic podcasting in an app. This is a free app that grants access to all the shows produced by Relevant Radio, available in live streaming or downloadable content. It also includes audio prayers, a Confession “helper,” and Catholic news from around the world. It’s perfect if you’re looking for ways to fill long commutes or travel with something more uplifting.
Magnificat
“Magnificat” is the app from the same company that brings us the monthly Magnificat Missals. It gives you access to the daily readings along with various articles, Hymns for the Month, Lectio Divina, and resources for blessings and prayers. One of the great things about this app is that you can set alerts to remind you of morning, evening, and nighttime prayer. This is not a free app, but the low cost gives you access to a wide variety of materials. There is a free trial month when you first download the app!
Mass Times for Travel
“Mass Times for Travel” is the perfect app for any traveling Catholic. It allows you to find a Mass nearby, wherever you are. It often offers additional information on availabilities for Adoration and Confession. The app also provides directions to help you fulfill the Sunday obligation while on the road.
We had our October girls night on Monday night in Meghan's hot tub! It was rainy that evening so it was a perfect, misty night by the time we got in. I love the kid free convos! Thanks for hosting, Meghan!
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