Freeing Tanner Rose - A New Young Adult Novel by @TMGaouette (With Give Away!)

Freeing Tanner Rose - Faith and Kung Fu - Book One

• Written by T. M. Gaouette
• Released January 5th,2014
• 202 Pages - English Language
• Christian Young Adult Fiction
• Publisher's List Price - $9.99
• Visit the Author's Web Page www.tmgaouette.com
• T. M. Gaouette is also on Facebook and on Twitter (@TMGaouette)

Tanner Rose is a fourteen year old movie and television star.  She enjoys her fame and is deep into the Hollywood party scene.  When her behavior gets out of control her mother sends her to stay at the country home of her college friend, Miss Ruth.  The plan is for Tanner to rest and regroup so that she will be able to focus when filming for her new upcoming show.

Unfortunately for Tanner her problem is not that she is too stressed - the child is addicted to drinking and smoking and when she is out partying there are drugs and boys who have impure intentions.  Her self esteem rests in her fame so she does not appreciate being dropped off in the middle of nowhere and especially not at the home of a boy that is not impressed by her status.  She doesn't know what to make of Miss Ruth's son, Gabriel.

Gabriel is sixteen and he is a very devout Catholic.  He and his friends are all clean cut and fairly innocent.  Gabriel is also extremely handsome and in good physical condition.  Each day he practices martial arts and is quite accomplished.

As most people who are mired in addiction or other bad behaviors do, Tanner tries to corrupt Gabriel and his friends.  Every time that they go out Tanner does something infuriating or embarrassing.  Gabriel tries not to let her get under his skin but because of his own issues, she does.  Amazingly, he is able to tell her in plain language why her behavior is unacceptable and talk in clear language about how God's love is better than fame or parties or any of the things Tanner holds dear and confuses for happiness.

The story takes some twists and some turns as we learn more about both of the teens and their issues.  It comes to a point where either Gabriel's faith will attract Tanner and allow her to let her true self shine through or Tanner's life will tempt Gabriel to do things he never even considered.

This is the first book in a four story series.  It pulled me in quickly and I read it cover to cover.  The characters are both a little bit complex, and each chapter reveals a little bit more about them.  Although it stands alone just fine it did leave me wondering what will become of the two, especially Tanner Rose.  I hope the next book is published soon! 

The book is Christian young adult fiction - but parents may want to read it with their teens. There are so many topics that will open up for discussion because it addresses so many relevant topics.  You could choose substance abuse, peer pressure, parent/child relationships, (including the importance of behavioral boundaries) the trappings of fame, and more - especially temptations!

If you would like to purchase your own copy, you can order The Destiny of Sunshine Ranch online by visiting the author's website, Barnes and Noble or through Amazon.
You may also want to read Mrs. Gaouette's first novel for young people, The Destiny of Sunshine Ranch.

The author has graciously offered a copy of the book as a giveaway prize.  If you would like a chance to win it please use the Rafflecopter form and complete the tasks as directed.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good Luck!

Up for Grabs – The Destiny of Sunshine Ranch – a Novel by T. M. Gaouette @TMGaouette

The Destiny of Sunshine Ranch
Authored by T. M. Gaouette

• A New Novel For Young Adults
• Published by CreatreSpace
• Released March 5, 2012 
• Paperback Volume - 184 pages
• Suggested Retail Price $9.99
• Digital Edition Available ($4.99)

10 year old Benedict has been moved from one foster home to another, and he's hated every one. When he arrives at Sunshine Ranch, he doesn't bother unpacking. What's the point? But his new foster parents and siblings are very different from what he's become used to. David and Martha Credence strive to instill love and Christian values in their family and it inspires hope in each child. Benedict is not into "religion," but Sunshine Ranch is the home he's secretly been yearning for. Still, he fears it's all just a little too good to be true, and his sentiments are validated when he learns that they may lose Sunshine Ranch. Can the Credence children help save the Ranch? Will faith keep them together? Or will Benedict's dream be shattered?

"I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Philippians 4:12-13

Earlier this month I shared my blogged review of this book The Destiny of Sunshine Ranch.  I was very happy to read an interesting, yet cleanly written book for teens.  Now, the author has generously offered to provide an autographed copy to one of my readers.

If you'd like to be entered, please use the Rafflecopter form below.

(Giveaway Closed)

This giveaway is open to US residents, ages 18 and older.  It will close at 12:01AM EST on may 14th.  Winner will be chosen by Rafflecopter, notified by email, and will have 48 hours to respond.  No purchase is necessary to win.  Void where prohibited.

Facebook, Google and Twitter have no connection to this giveaway.  They do not endorse it or sponsor it.  Likewise, none are affiliated with this blog, its reviews, or any of its other giveaways.

Good Luck!

Sunday of Divine Mercy - #Catholic #Forgiven

Are you familiar with Divine Mercy Sunday?

"It is important then that we accept the whole message that comes to us from the word of God on this Second Sunday of Easter, which from now on throughout the Church, will be called ‘Divine Mercy Sunday.'  - Pope John Paul II

Each year, the Sunday after Easter is designated as the Sunday of Divine Mercy – a special day to remind us that the Church is a refuge for sinners.  Fallen away Catholics are urged to return.  In most churches there are special hours of devotion and extended time for confessions.

Our Services begin in about an hour.

“The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’
“But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet.  Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate.  For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate. - Luke 15:21-24

Blessed beyond measure,

Happy Easter

Happy Easter.  

I'm so thankful, and so unworthy.

The Destiny of Sunshine Ranch – A Novel for Young Adults #Catholic @TMGaouette

The Destiny of Sunshine Ranch a Novel by T. M. Gaouette

• A New Novel For Young Adults by T.M. Gaouette 
• A Story About a Catholic Couple, and Their Ministry to Young Foster Children
• Paperback Volume - 184 pages
• Suggested Retail Price $12.99

I just finished reading this novel, written for young adults, by T.M. Goouette.  The title is The Destiny of Sunshine Ranch.

Here I am, reading a few chapters during my down time at the water park:



I will freely admit - even though this book is written for teenagers, I was taken in fairly quickly.  The characters are well developed and likable, which made me want to see how things turned out for them.  I usually have a pile of serious tomes stacked up for my free reading time, and most are non-fiction titles.  It was an absolute pleasure to immerse myself in this story.

In addition to a delightful read, there are a few uplifting messages revealed in these pages.  For me, the most important was that faith is the only sure antidote for anxiety.  Coming in a closely behind were the ideas that God waits - and that where there is life, there is hope.

I can't imagine what it must be like to be a foster child, especially one who is moved from place to place.  That is who this story is about.  A lovable and diverse bunch of foster children and the couple who take them into their home.

I loved how Ms. Gaouette presented each child as unique, with his or her own defenses and coping mechanisms.  David and Martha Credence, (the foster parents) have a wonderful ability to understand these kids and assist them as they heal from their painful pasts. They carefully guide the group of young people towards faith, and help them to cope with new situations and emotions. Their capacity to love is amazing, and they have plenty for each of their charges.  Sunshine Ranch is a refuge.

Benedict is the main character, and he is introduced immediately.  He's only ten but he has had quite a rough life.  When he arrives at the ranch he isn't exactly sure what to make of it - or the oddly happy people living there. While the stories of the other children all intertwine through Benny's, the focus always returns to him.  He is a stubborn young man - bound and determined to avoid faith, refuse to trust, and to keep everyone at an arm's length.  He is determined not to become attached to this new home or it's inhabitants, even though Sunshine Ranch is everything he has ever wanted or hoped for.

Of course, just like the rest of us, this patched together family has it's share of ups and downs, joys and heartbreaks, worries and woes.  Through the characters we see the contrast between reactions based on faith, and reactions rooted in fear.

Without being preachy, The Destiny of Sunshine Ranch illustrates the very beautiful passage of Scripture,

I Can Do All things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me.  Phillipans 4:13

The story also shows the detrimental effects that come from holding on to all of our hurts and our worries.  It is not an easy way to live!  Thankfully, readers will also see the profound joy that accompanies conversion.

I am sad to say, there have been times in my life when I have been like Benedict, and I know many Benedicts today.  Many "Benedicts" will show up in the pews during these days of the Triduum - and I pray that this is the year they decide to stay.

While the book is not drenched in Catholicism, it is clearly the faith of the Credence family and it is mentioned occasionally, throughout the pages.  Even so, I think it would be an appropriate book for a teen of any faith to read.

As a mom, I can easily recommend this novel for teens.  The plot is interesting, and there is just enough turmoil to hold the attention of younger people.  There are a few minor plot elements that could probably not happen in real life, but for the sake of the story, they work.  When I'm reading or watching a movie, I allow a little bit of creative license - and these minor blips would probably not register with an average teenager.

If you would like to purchase your own copy, you can order The Destiny of Sunshine Ranch online by visiting the author's website,  Barnes and Noble or through Amazon.

T.M. Gaouette is a freelance writer, ghostwriter, blogger, and fiction novelist. Devoted to Him, Gaouette is dedicated to glorifying God through her stories for children and young adults. She lives in New England with her husband and their children.

In order to write a blogged review, I was given a copy of the book.  I have no affiliation with the author or publisher, and I am not paid to write posts.

Forty Days of Seeking Him – March 1st - Being Positive and Kind #Lent

Today's suggestion from one of my Lenten Guides:

 March 1 - "Resolve to only say positive things about yourself and others today."

Oh, My.  About Myself, too?  Only Positive?  Can I do it?  I am so good at encouraging and lifting up other people, but I am so hard on myself.   I have made self deprecation an art form!

... But isn't that the whole purpose of the Passion?  It was for ME.  Flaws, insecurities, and all...



I can also be rather snarky when I perceive things as ridiculous or absurd.  Today, I will be very conscious of my word choices.  

"Whatsoever you do to the least of my people, you do unto me... "

I'm going to need some prayers today.  :)

Join Trish and Laura for this Lenten meme, Forty Days of Seeking Him.

Forty Days of Seeking Him – Day Three

So, Why Don't Catholics Eat Meat on Fridays During Lent?

I get asked this question all the time.  In fact, Catholics used to abstain from meat on ALL Fridays.  

It is a practice that helps us to make a conscious change and willfully turn our hearts and our minds toward God.  Thoughts are fleeting, physical acts are more lasting.  

When I was younger, there weren't as many fancy seafood choices available, so it was a bit more austere.  However, even if dinner is King Crab legs, the absence of flesh meat is still considered correct. Why?  On Fridays, we are looking ahead to Good Friday, and the sacrifice of the body of Christ - the only true flesh we need.

Join Trish and Laura for Forty Days of Seeking Him, a Lenten meme.

Forty Days of Seeking Him, Day Two

I'm linking up again with Trish at House Upon the Rock, and Laura at Day by Day in Our World for this Lenten meme. 

I always enjoy the readings at Ash Wednesday Mass.  We are urged to rent our hearts, rather than our garments.  Torn garments were a sign to the world that one was in great pain.  We are instructed to keep our sacrifice, almsgiving, and fasting quiet.  We should go into the world with a smiling face, and to not look for a pat on the back or any recognition.  

When I was younger, we would try to one up each other with what we were "giving up".  I loved to hear the gasp when I proclaimed I was giving up television.  It seemed like such a huge deal to my peers.  (the truth is, I barely missed it!) The problem with shining a spotlight on a sacrifice is that it no longer becomes an offering to God, but to rather to the people we hope to impress.

Forty Days of Seeking Him – A Lenten Meme

Today is the first day of Lent.  If you observe Lent, or would like to learn more about this preparatory season leading up to Easter, you are invited to visit the link up hosted by Trish at House Upon the Rock, and Laura at Day by Day in Our World.

There will be a new linky posted each week.  Bloggers can add their Lenten posts as often as they like during the seven days.

I have really come to enjoy Lent.  (Yes.  Really!)  One of the nicest things about this meme, (I participated last year, too) is that many of the posts help break the stereotype of Lent being all about "giving things up."
Yes, fast, abstinence, almsgiving and other forms of sacrifice are a part of it, but these little discomforts are a wonderful reminder of the greatest sacrifice of all.  The moments of want are such a great opportunity to offer up a prayer for someone in need, or a situation in our lives or our world.  When done properly, I receive so much more than I "give up".

Sometimes, friends will say to me, "Oh, I'm glad I'm not a Catholic, I could never live without .......  (fill in the blank) for forty days!"

I think deep down, we all realize we really can, and it's a daily choice to grow spiritually.

Is living without this:

 Even comparable to this?

Crucifixion - Delacroix

It's all about perspective.

Forty days begins today.  We will go to Mass, get our ashes, and I will observe the guidelines for fast and abstinence.

We will stop saying Alleluia! from today until Easter Sunday.  When we say it again, it will be fresh, and new - and hopefully, we will be, too.

My Amazing Boys

Today I taught my boys things that are considered far above their "grade level".  I watched as they attended their mixed martial arts class.  There was a light saber duel, video games, jokes, imaginative play, and all sorts of appropriate eleven year old boy fun in our house today.

I tucked them into bed, and we said our prayers, and reflected on our day.  Their father read to them for awhile, until their eyes grew heavy.

Here are my guys:



Aren't they handsome?

They are also smart, healthy, and strong.  I love them so much that it sometimes takes my breath away.

Once upon a time, in a doctor's office far, far, away, I was told they would probably not see this day.  I was told that to carry them would be a great risk to my health, and might leave me on dialysis.  I was berated, and bullied, and told that carrying them wasn't worth what it would do to me - considering their odds of survival were so low.

I walked away and didn't look back.  I found a doctor who would support me, vowed to give me and my growing babies the best medical care possible, and promised to pray about the things that were not in his power.

At 18 weeks, I was put on full  bedrest.  At 24 weeks, all signs indicated they would be born soon.  These boys had other plans.  They were born at almost 32 weeks gestation.

Although very small (the two of them together weighed less than seven pounds!) they were healthy.  Both boys were taken off of ventilators in less than 8 hours, and came home with me after only two and a half weeks in NICU.

I never considered any other alternative.  I know that I'm blessed and lucky to have our beautiful sons.  I'm glad they defied the statistics.

Imagine if I had listened to the first doctor?

I’ve had an Epiphany!

This painting by Giotto di Bondone is titled Adoration of the Maji. 

With the advent of the Epiphany, the Christmas season comes to a close.

An Epiphany is a moment of comprehension or sudden realization.  That which was unknown becomes known.

When the Maji arrived, their eyes were opened.  Let our eyes be opened, too, and let faith be the bright star that guides us.

It’s time to take down the decorations – but I pray that Christmas stays in my heart all year.

#Advent 2011 – It’s Already the Third Week!

This Advent Season, Two of my favorite bloggers, Trish and Laura have been hosting a weekly meme  with an Advent theme.  I was really excited about this one when I saw it, because I love the Advent Season so much!   Today, as I lit the pink candle, it almost surprised me!  We are beginning the THIRD week already!

I certainly haven’t forgotten Advent.  It would be impossible in my house!  I’ll show you why in this post.  The problem is, I have been so busy switching blog hosts, and preparing for Christmas in real life, that I haven’t had the time to write about it!

I don’t have an advent wreath. I use this candle holder.  It is shaped like a scroll and has the nativity scene on the base.

We also use this Advent storybook calendar which has twenty-five little booklets.  Each day, a small part of the Christmas story is read by one of the children, and then the book of the day is hung on the tree.




The Children also have little paper pop up calendars.  Behind each door of the calendar is an Advent reflection.  Our daily devotional books also follow the Catholic readings for the season.

For fun, we have this hanging decoration.  Each day we move the marker one pocket closer to Christmas.   And the ones with Santa on the front hold chocolate treats behind each numbered door.




Finally, there is Kermit.  Kermit has been with me for a very long time!   We change his tiles every day so that his presents reflect the countdown to Christmas, too.



There is certainly no way anybody around here will forget that Christmas is coming!!

Prepare ye the way of the Lord!

Lent, Day 38

The  Easter Triduum has begun.  Holy Thursday brings so much with it.  The priests of the diocese gather for renewal and to consecrate the chrism.  The catechumens recite the creed by rote, and some become full Catholics, or prove their readiness for induction at the Easter Vigil.  We recall how Jesus washed the feet of his disciples.  We celebrate the Mass of the Last Supper.    After mass, the altars are stripped, the holy water emptied, and the Blessed Sacrament is carried, by way of a procession, to a place of reposition.  It remains on display late into the night, and Catholics often go from church to church for adoration.  it is an extra special day for me because I made my First Holy Communion on a Holy Thursday Evening when I was a young girl.

Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, "Take, eat; this is my body." And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, "Drink of it, all of you; for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you I shall not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom"  (Matthew 26: 26-29)

Into the night, we consider the sorrow of Gethsemane, and all that followed.  Tomorrow we will go through the Stations of the Cross again.  When we enter the Church, the tabernacle will be empty.  So many reminders..  What He did for me.  What He endured for me.

Maundy Thursday - The New Mandate. "Love One Another as I Have Loved You."

Lent, Day 37

Both yesterday and today Catholics were directed to think about Judas.  I can't imagine how a man who walked with Jesus, saw his works, and knew him could do the unthinkable.  Thirty pieces of silver.  A pittance.

Betrayal is always painful.  Betrayal by someone I love is almost unbearable.   Yet even knowing this awful pain, there have been times in my life when I have betrayed Jesus.  It was too uncomfortable to own my faith.  I felt unworthy.  When I should have been reaching out, I turned my back instead.

I know that there are still Christian martyrs in this world, and the idea of it turns knots inside of me.  In some places, worship is hidden, and if discovered could be punished severely.  Yet they still gather.  Their faith sustains them.  They refuse to deny, and refuse to betray.   I pray that I shall never betray Him again.

Lent, Day 36

I've been thinking today about how much I have taken for granted in my life.  How it's so human of me.  I hate that  I do it, but I never learn.  I can still hear my father's voice telling me that each day is a gift, and to always remember how lucky I am.  He would remind me that no matter what is happening in my life, somebody has it worse.  Even as he was saying the words, I was taking him for granted.  Wouldn't he always be there to offer such wonderful wisdom?  Shouldn't he be dropping by at any moment?

As I mentioned yesterday, when I reflect on Holy Week, I personalize it.   This year, I'm thinking how much the apostles and other followers took Jesus for granted.  He told them over and over again what was going to happen, but they didn't really hear what he was saying.  They were completely unprepared for the end.

I know that Jesus Christ Superstar is very controversial, but when I watch this segment, Could we Start Again, Please? I think the actors and actress capture what I'm trying to say completely.  They are surprised, shocked, frightened and they still think it can be stopped.  Even Judas is seen looking on in horror and disbelief.  As if this was not what he thought would happen.

They were given the message so many times and when the time came they were confused and caught off guard.  They want a do-over.

Lent, Day 35

I tend to think a lot.  To me, the story of the Passion is very personal.  I know it, but I also feel it.  I think about the people involved.

Judas' fear led him to betray, and then the fear of what he had done led him to take his own life.   Peter was so afraid he denied three times.  The other apostles who scattered in fear, looked on from the shadows.   Pilot, who knew his wife's dream, and was afraid to have the blood on his hands.   Jesus himself, in the garden, wavering...  There was plenty of fear to go around.

Along with the gift of Grace, the Resurrection gives us the gift of never having to fear again.  Faith and Hope were given.   These leave no place for fear.

Here is a popular church song that goes with these thoughts.  Be Not Afraid:

You shall cross the barren desert, but you shall not die of thirst.
You shall wander far in safety though you do not know the way.
You shall speak your words in foreign lands and all will understand.
You shall see the face of God and live.

Be not afraid.
I go before you always.
Come follow me, and
I will give you rest.

If you pass through raging waters in the sea, you shall not drown.
If you walk amid the burning flames, you shall not be harmed.
If you stand before the pow'r of hell and death is at your side, know that
I am with you through it all.

Be not afraid.
I go before you always.
Come follow me, and
I will give you rest.

Blessed are your poor, for the kingdom shall be theirs.
Blest are you that weep and mourn, for one day you shall laugh.
And if wicked men insult and hate you all because of me, blessed, blessed are you!

Be not afraid.
I go before you always.
Come follow me, and
I will give you rest.

Lent, Day 34

It's already Palm Sunday weekend.  Congregations all around the world will begin their masses by retelling the story of the adoring crowds.  We hear how they were laying down of cloaks and palm branches before Him.   Later they will contrast that with the reading of the Passion.  I don't think I have ever gotten through the reading without tears.   From "Hosanna!" to "Crucify Him!"

And so we begin Holy Week.

Eucharist, a CD and Study Guide by Fr. Robert E Barron

One of the most significant hallmarks of the Catholic Church is our consecrated Eucharist.  This audio lesson and accompanying study guide are a great way to shed even greater light on this most blessed sacrament.

Father Robert Barron opens the discussion by describing what it was like to dispense communion in St Peter's Square at the Vatican.   He speaks of the faithful gathered there, begging with their hands outstretched as though they were starving.   He contrasts that scene to most parishes he goes to.  Unfortunately, most people have not had a full spiritual education, or they may have a misunderstanding of the sacrament.   The words are the right words, the motions are the right motions, but so many hearts do not hunger for the  Sacrum Convivium - "The Sacred Banquet".

After his short introduction the remainder of the 77 minute class is divided into three parts.  Sacred Meal, Sacrifice, and Real Presence. The accompnying Study Guide is a workbook to be written in.  Each part of the lecture has a study guide recap, followed by Questions for Understanding.   These include some studying, looking up certain parts of the Catholic Cathechism or Bible passages, and answering questions.   Those are followed by Questions for Reflection.   As you would guess, these are more personal, and do not have right or wrong answers.  They are more for spiritual growth.

There are also two pages of prayers that are appropriate for after Eucharist, a short biography about Father Baron, and a page for taking notes.  You will want to listen with a pencil.  He makes so many wonderful points, my pencil was flying across the page the first time, when I listened as a reviewer.  I listened again, a second time, so I could simply allow myself to appreciate the words.

During the lesson of the Sacred Meal, Father points out the many times in the Bible that God lays out a banquet - starting in the Garden of Eden.  It is shown to us again, and again.  When Jesus walked among us, we see it still.  the fist miracle at the wedding feast, the loaves and the fishes - Jesus was always sitting down and sharing food, even with those considered lowly, or unworthy.  This was the case all the way until The Last Supper;  The Passover Meal he shared with his Apostles, and the meal we recount every time we attend mass.

As Father Barron discusses Sacrifice, he  does not shy away from the fact that it often is not a delicate notion.  Sacrifice hurts, but the pain is rewarded.   Our Biblical references to sacrifice are bloody, painful, and heartbreaking - but they are gifts.  Gifts given in love.  Not because of law, but because the giver wanted to please God above himself.  The same is true of God's gift, God's Sacrifice.  The Lamb of God was without sin, but he took our sins upon himself.

Next week is Holy Week.  We will reflect upon the Passion.  Everything bad in the world was placed upon Jesus, who took it up and obeyed the will of God.  For US.

It is almost impossible to escape the fact the centerpiece of the Mass is an altar.  The consecration takes place upon that altar.  We kneel and bow our heads as the priest proclaims, "This is the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.. "

When we talk about the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, it makes some people uncomfortable.  They balk.  They question.  They assures us that we must mean that it is a symbol!  It is NOT a symbol.  The language is unmistakable.

Jesus dealt with this also.  Father Barron discusses how important the words of Jesus truly are.  He never chose words lightly.   When he said, "Unless you eat my bread and drink my blood, you will not have life in you," it is what he meant to say.  Many left him at that point.  They were disgusted, and appalled.  The very thought of it, even if it were figurative speech, would be breaking the laws of  the time.  In spite of this, Jesus did not soften his tone, or change his word.  he became more insistent.  "Do not seek the goods of this world, seek for the bread that will not perish!'

The final part of the lecture is very moving, and convicting.  It delves into how God's word is the final authority, the real truth.  What God says, is.  Reality is not always the same as appearance.  The words of the consecration are the same words of Christ, as retold in the Gospels.  When we gather for Mass, we gather for the Sacrum Convivium.

I think this is a wonderful study of the Sacrament of Eucharist.  It is available from The Catholic Company for $29.95, and would work well as a self study with the workbook or with a group.  The possibilities for discussions are great.

The site describes the set this way:

This set includes the Eucharist CD and its companion Study Guide.

In the CD, Fr. Barron offers inspiring insights into the mystery of Christ's presence in our lives and the centrality of the Eucharist as an important part of that presence. So many believers do not understand the mystery of the Eucharist, which Vatican II describes as the "source and summit of the Christian life." This fresh look at the Eucharist brings to light its reality as sacred meal, as the sacrifice necessary for communion with God and as the real presence of Christ.

You can listen to the CD and then probe more deeply into Father Barron's message by using the companion Study Guide, which is divided into sections that correspond to each part of Father's presentation. Each section provides "Questions for Understanding" and "Questions for Reflection" based on Father's presentation and references from Scripture and the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

This review was written as part of the Catholic book reviewer program from The Catholic Company. Visit The Catholic Company to find more information on Eucharist CD Bundle (CD/Study Guide) . They are also a great source for serenity prayer and baptism gifts.

Lent, Day 33

Today, my Lenten meditation was very comforting.  It was a reminder of God's protection in good times and bad.   It occurred to me once again that He is always there, waiting, patiently - and how often I take the long and winding road.

Lent, Day 32

I was reading the Sermon on the Mount today.  Isn't the Lord's Prayer an incredible gift?

Please enjoy Andrea Bocelli and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir: