Explore with me how I came to know, believe and love the Church’s teaching on Mary! Thank you for listening to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Tuning in each week means so very much! Want to hear more great Catholic content perfect for the whole family? Make sure to tune in each day to the CATHOLIC SPROUTS PODCAST. https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/   Looking for a way to support this podcast? Here are some ideas:   Say a prayer for us! This would be SUCH a gift!   Share this podcast with a friend!   Purchase something in the Catholic Sprouts Shop: https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/    Drop Nancy an email at nancy@catholicsprouts.com with a word of encouragement or an idea for a future episode.     This podcast is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. May we all meet there one day!   Your sister in the small things, Nancy

Explore with me how I came to know, believe and love the Church’s teaching on Mary! Thank you for listening to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Tuning in each week means so very much! Want to hear more great Catholic content perfect for the whole family? Make sure to tune in each day to the CATHOLIC SPROUTS PODCAST. <a href="https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/</a> Looking for a way to support this podcast? Here are some ideas: <ol> <li> Say a prayer for us! This would be SUCH a gift! </li> <li> Share this podcast with a friend! </li> <li> Purchase something in the Catholic Sprouts Shop: <a href="https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/</a> </li> <li> Drop Nancy an email at <a href="mailto:nancy@catholicsprouts.com">nancy@catholicsprouts.com</a> with a word of encouragement or an idea for a future episode. </li> </ol> This podcast is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. May we all meet there one day! Your sister in the small things, Nancy

J1ST 140: Marian Dogman

Storytime! Since we are talking about the saints celebrating their feast days this week, including St. Dominic, I took this opportunity to share my own Dominic/Holy Rosary stories. Both take place in France outside of Toulouse, but they are set about 10 years apart.   In part one, I am a solo traveler to rural France where I realize my High School French is 0% helpful and no one there speaks English at all. Through a strange and beautiful prayer exercise in the “green cathedral,” I am introduced to St. Dominic.    In part two I am married and pregnant with my fifth baby. During this trip I learned the hard way that mid-zed SUVs don’t fit well inside medieval towns and stay three doors down from where St. Dominic once lived.    I hope you enjoy these stories and they inspire you to start or keep praying a daily Rosary! Thank you for listening to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Tuning in each week means so very much! Want to hear more great Catholic content perfect for the whole family? Make sure to tune in each day to the CATHOLIC SPROUTS PODCAST. https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/   Looking for a way to support this podcast? Here are some ideas:   Say a prayer for us! This would be SUCH a gift!   Share this podcast with a friend!   Purchase something in the Catholic Sprouts Shop: https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/    Drop Nancy an email at nancy@catholicsprouts.com with a word of encouragement or an idea for a future episode.     This podcast is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. May we all meet there one day!   Your sister in the small things, Nancy

Storytime! Since we are talking about the saints celebrating their feast days this week, including St. Dominic, I took this opportunity to share my own Dominic/Holy Rosary stories. Both take place in France outside of Toulouse, but they are set about 10 years apart. In part one, I am a solo traveler to rural France where I realize my High School French is 0% helpful and no one there speaks English at all. Through a strange and beautiful prayer exercise in the “green cathedral,” I am introduced to St. Dominic.  In part two I am married and pregnant with my fifth baby. During this trip I learned the hard way that mid-zed SUVs don’t fit well inside medieval towns and stay three doors down from where St. Dominic once lived.  I hope you enjoy these stories and they inspire you to start or keep praying a daily Rosary! Thank you for listening to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Tuning in each week means so very much! Want to hear more great Catholic content perfect for the whole family? Make sure to tune in each day to the CATHOLIC SPROUTS PODCAST. <a href="https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/</a> Looking for a way to support this podcast? Here are some ideas: <ol> <li> Say a prayer for us! This would be SUCH a gift! </li> <li> Share this podcast with a friend! </li> <li> Purchase something in the Catholic Sprouts Shop: <a href="https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/</a> </li> <li> Drop Nancy an email at <a href="mailto:nancy@catholicsprouts.com">nancy@catholicsprouts.com</a> with a word of encouragement or an idea for a future episode. </li> </ol> This podcast is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. May we all meet there one day! Your sister in the small things, Nancy

J1ST 139: Dominic and the Rosary

This week on the Catholic Sprouts Podcast we are exploring what it means to be Catholic. This is an important question to tackle as we build and nurture our identity as Catholics. It is our goal to nurture our identity as Catholics here at Catholic Sprouts, which is why we are launching the CLUBHOUSE today. The CLUBHOUSE is a membership for Catholic kids, and I’m explaining all of the details in this episode.  You can learn more and join us (doors open 8-1!) right here: https://catholicsprouts.com/clubhouse/ Thank you for listening to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Tuning in each week means so very much! Want to hear more great Catholic content perfect for the whole family? Make sure to tune in each day to the CATHOLIC SPROUTS PODCAST. https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/   Looking for a way to support this podcast? Here are some ideas:   Say a prayer for us! This would be SUCH a gift!   Share this podcast with a friend!   Purchase something in the Catholic Sprouts Shop: https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/    Drop Nancy an email at nancy@catholicsprouts.com with a word of encouragement or an idea for a future episode.     This podcast is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. May we all meet there one day!   Your sister in the small things, Nancy

This week on the Catholic Sprouts Podcast we are exploring what it means to be Catholic. This is an important question to tackle as we build and nurture our identity as Catholics. It is our goal to nurture our identity as Catholics here at Catholic Sprouts, which is why we are launching the CLUBHOUSE today. The CLUBHOUSE is a membership for Catholic kids, and I’m explaining all of the details in this episode. You can learn more and join us (doors open 8-1!) right here: <a href="https://catholicsprouts.com/clubhouse/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://catholicsprouts.com/clubhouse/</a> Thank you for listening to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Tuning in each week means so very much! Want to hear more great Catholic content perfect for the whole family? Make sure to tune in each day to the CATHOLIC SPROUTS PODCAST. <a href="https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/</a> Looking for a way to support this podcast? Here are some ideas: <ol> <li> Say a prayer for us! This would be SUCH a gift! </li> <li> Share this podcast with a friend! </li> <li> Purchase something in the Catholic Sprouts Shop: <a href="https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/</a> </li> <li> Drop Nancy an email at <a href="mailto:nancy@catholicsprouts.com">nancy@catholicsprouts.com</a> with a word of encouragement or an idea for a future episode. </li> </ol> This podcast is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. May we all meet there one day! Your sister in the small things, Nancy

J1ST 138: Clubhouse Details

Well, I decided to spill the beans on a project that we have been working on for a long time, and I am hopeful will come into being this fall: a church history book told through biographies of the saints. I have grown frustrated with how many church history books tell history either through secular leaders (like emperors) or heretics. So, we decided to write a history of the church told through the movement of the Holy Spirit as demonstrated through the lives of the saints.    This week on the Catholic Sprouts podcast I talk through the biographies of saints celebrating feast days this week, and two of the saints celebrating feast days are included in this upcoming history book: St. Christina the Astonishing and St. Simeon Stylite. These two oddballs are great examples of how God can use ANYONE to build up His Church if we are open to the moments of the Holy Spirit.   We are still pulling this book together, but you can plan to look for it later this fall! Thank you for listening to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Tuning in each week means so very much! Want to hear more great Catholic content perfect for the whole family? Make sure to tune in each day to the CATHOLIC SPROUTS PODCAST. https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/   Looking for a way to support this podcast? Here are some ideas:   Say a prayer for us! This would be SUCH a gift!   Share this podcast with a friend!   Purchase something in the Catholic Sprouts Shop: https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/    Drop Nancy an email at nancy@catholicsprouts.com with a word of encouragement or an idea for a future episode.     This podcast is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. May we all meet there one day!   Your sister in the small things, Nancy

Well, I decided to spill the beans on a project that we have been working on for a long time, and I am hopeful will come into being this fall: a church history book told through biographies of the saints. I have grown frustrated with how many church history books tell history either through secular leaders (like emperors) or heretics. So, we decided to write a history of the church told through the movement of the Holy Spirit as demonstrated through the lives of the saints.  This week on the Catholic Sprouts podcast I talk through the biographies of saints celebrating feast days this week, and two of the saints celebrating feast days are included in this upcoming history book: St. Christina the Astonishing and St. Simeon Stylite. These two oddballs are great examples of how God can use ANYONE to build up His Church if we are open to the moments of the Holy Spirit. We are still pulling this book together, but you can plan to look for it later this fall! Thank you for listening to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Tuning in each week means so very much! Want to hear more great Catholic content perfect for the whole family? Make sure to tune in each day to the CATHOLIC SPROUTS PODCAST. <a href="https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/</a> Looking for a way to support this podcast? Here are some ideas: <ol> <li> Say a prayer for us! This would be SUCH a gift! </li> <li> Share this podcast with a friend! </li> <li> Purchase something in the Catholic Sprouts Shop: <a href="https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/</a> </li> <li> Drop Nancy an email at <a href="mailto:nancy@catholicsprouts.com">nancy@catholicsprouts.com</a> with a word of encouragement or an idea for a future episode. </li> </ol> This podcast is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. May we all meet there one day! Your sister in the small things, Nancy

J1ST 137: Saints and the History of the Church

We are finally done with all of the CST topics! Yay! From here forward this podcast will be weekly, and will explore, in a more adult way, the topics we are covering on the Catholic Sprouts podcast. The plan is to hit record on this podcast as soon as I finish recording the Catholic Sprouts Podcast, and that is exactly what I did today!   So, friendship. I have often felt like I was a “bad friend”, simply because I have been blessed with so many amazing friends! In my rambling way, in this episode I discuss how good Christian friendships are, often, meant to make us feel uncomfortable. I also share that I’m not interested in a friendship with a mom where all we do is talk about our kids (sorry, not sorry). And, at the end I reflect on Jesus’s desire to be our friend, and how I need to be a better conversationalist (and slow down) when I am in prayer.   I hope you found these thoughts helpful--and that you have a wonderful Christian friend in your life that will challenge you to embrace holiness! Thank you for listening to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Tuning in each week means so very much! Want to hear more great Catholic content perfect for the whole family? Make sure to tune in each day to the CATHOLIC SPROUTS PODCAST. https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/   Looking for a way to support this podcast? Here are some ideas:   Say a prayer for us! This would be SUCH a gift!   Share this podcast with a friend!   Purchase something in the Catholic Sprouts Shop: https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/    Drop Nancy an email at nancy@catholicsprouts.com with a word of encouragement or an idea for a future episode.     This podcast is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. May we all meet there one day!   Your sister in the small things, Nancy

We are finally done with all of the CST topics! Yay! From here forward this podcast will be weekly, and will explore, in a more adult way, the topics we are covering on the Catholic Sprouts podcast. The plan is to hit record on this podcast as soon as I finish recording the Catholic Sprouts Podcast, and that is exactly what I did today! So, friendship. I have often felt like I was a “bad friend”, simply because I have been blessed with so many amazing friends! In my rambling way, in this episode I discuss how good Christian friendships are, often, meant to make us feel uncomfortable. I also share that I’m not interested in a friendship with a mom where all we do is talk about our kids (sorry, not sorry). And, at the end I reflect on Jesus’s desire to be our friend, and how I need to be a better conversationalist (and slow down) when I am in prayer. I hope you found these thoughts helpful--and that you have a wonderful Christian friend in your life that will challenge you to embrace holiness! Thank you for listening to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Tuning in each week means so very much! Want to hear more great Catholic content perfect for the whole family? Make sure to tune in each day to the CATHOLIC SPROUTS PODCAST. <a href="https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/</a> Looking for a way to support this podcast? Here are some ideas: <ol> <li> Say a prayer for us! This would be SUCH a gift! </li> <li> Share this podcast with a friend! </li> <li> Purchase something in the Catholic Sprouts Shop: <a href="https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/</a> </li> <li> Drop Nancy an email at <a href="mailto:nancy@catholicsprouts.com">nancy@catholicsprouts.com</a> with a word of encouragement or an idea for a future episode. </li> </ol> This podcast is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. May we all meet there one day! Your sister in the small things, Nancy

J1ST 136: Friendship

This is the last episode covering the topics of Catholic Social Teaching! Yay!!! Thank you for following along, and I hope you enjoy this last episode.    This episode explores the fact that the land and animals are a gift from God, and how amazing that truth is to hold onto as we interact with nature and animals. Also, we become co-workers with God when we plant a seed of care for an animal. I share about how experiencing the death of a beloved animal was so powerful for me, and helped me see the difference between a person and an animal. Finally, I explore the story of Cain and Abel--and how even though we might not be tilling the earth or raising flocks, we still need to be making an acceptable offering to God with what the earth gives us.    Our exploration of Stewardship of the Land and Animals comes directly out of our new book, CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH. CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH a ready-to-use script for Catholic parents as they set to work teaching their children the TRUTH on all of our modern moral and social issues. With full Imprimatur from the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, you can trust this book to effectively teach what is true, while inviting your child into what is also beautiful.   Organized around the themes laid out by the USCCB, CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH will walk you and your child through all 31 Catholic Social Teaching topics, from the Dignity of the Human Person, through the Call to Family, Solidarity, Care for the Land and Workers Rights. To get your copy, head here:  https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/products/catholic-social-teaching-for Thank you for listening to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Tuning in each week means so very much! Want to hear more great Catholic content perfect for the whole family? Make sure to tune in each day to the CATHOLIC SPROUTS PODCAST. https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/   Looking for a way to support this podcast? Here are some ideas:   Say a prayer for us! This would be SUCH a gift!   Share this podcast with a friend!   Purchase something in the Catholic Sprouts Shop: https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/    Drop Nancy an email at nancy@catholicsprouts.com with a word of encouragement or an idea for a future episode.     This podcast is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. May we all meet there one day!   Your sister in the small things, Nancy

This is the last episode covering the topics of Catholic Social Teaching! Yay!!! Thank you for following along, and I hope you enjoy this last episode.  This episode explores the fact that the land and animals are a gift from God, and how amazing that truth is to hold onto as we interact with nature and animals. Also, we become co-workers with God when we plant a seed of care for an animal. I share about how experiencing the death of a beloved animal was so powerful for me, and helped me see the difference between a person and an animal. Finally, I explore the story of Cain and Abel--and how even though we might not be tilling the earth or raising flocks, we still need to be making an acceptable offering to God with what the earth gives us.  Our exploration of Stewardship of the Land and Animals comes directly out of our new book, CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH. CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH a ready-to-use script for Catholic parents as they set to work teaching their children the TRUTH on all of our modern moral and social issues. With full Imprimatur from the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, you can trust this book to effectively teach what is true, while inviting your child into what is also beautiful. Organized around the themes laid out by the USCCB, CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH will walk you and your child through all 31 Catholic Social Teaching topics, from the Dignity of the Human Person, through the Call to Family, Solidarity, Care for the Land and Workers Rights. To get your copy, head here: <a href="https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/products/catholic-social-teaching-for" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/products/catholic-social-teaching-for</a> Thank you for listening to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Tuning in each week means so very much! Want to hear more great Catholic content perfect for the whole family? Make sure to tune in each day to the CATHOLIC SPROUTS PODCAST. <a href="https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/</a> Looking for a way to support this podcast? Here are some ideas: <ol> <li> Say a prayer for us! This would be SUCH a gift! </li> <li> Share this podcast with a friend! </li> <li> Purchase something in the Catholic Sprouts Shop: <a href="https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/</a> </li> <li> Drop Nancy an email at <a href="mailto:nancy@catholicsprouts.com">nancy@catholicsprouts.com</a> with a word of encouragement or an idea for a future episode. </li> </ol> This podcast is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. May we all meet there one day! Your sister in the small things, Nancy

J1ST 135: Stewardship of the Land and Animals

The Church teaches that all people, regardless of race, are created in the image and likeness of God. Also, Christ died and shed His blood for ALL people. Therefore, all people are worthy of love and should enjoy equal rights. Also, we are not called to simply “tolerate” people. We are called to love them.   Unfortunately, we all will need to teach very clearly on the issue of race. This came to the front in my family after the murder of Geroge Floyd. We also need to make sure that our children see race in the right way. God is wonderfully creative and humanity is the peak of His creation. Therefore, when we see a variety of races we should rejoice in our God and His creativity!    Finally, when racism comes up in your home, I encourage you to share the story of Venerable Augustus Tolton with your family. He experienced terrible racism within the Catholic Church, and yet he gave his life to the Church as a hold priest. His story is included in Catholic Social Teaching for Youth, our newest resource.    Our exploration of Racism comes directly out of our new book, CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH. CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH a ready-to-use script for Catholic parents as they set to work teaching their children the TRUTH on all of our modern moral and social issues. With full Imprimatur from the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, you can trust this book to effectively teach what is true, while inviting your child into what is also beautiful.   Organized around the themes laid out by the USCCB, CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH will walk you and your child through all 31 Catholic Social Teaching topics, from the Dignity of the Human Person, through the Call to Family, Solidarity, Care for the Land and Workers Rights. To get your copy, head here:  https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/products/catholic-social-teaching-for-youth Thank you for listening to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Tuning in each week means so very much! Want to hear more great Catholic content perfect for the whole family? Make sure to tune in each day to the CATHOLIC SPROUTS PODCAST. https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/   Looking for a way to support this podcast? Here are some ideas:   Say a prayer for us! This would be SUCH a gift!   Share this podcast with a friend!   Purchase something in the Catholic Sprouts Shop: https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/    Drop Nancy an email at nancy@catholicsprouts.com with a word of encouragement or an idea for a future episode.     This podcast is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. May we all meet there one day!   Your sister in the small things, Nancy

The Church teaches that all people, regardless of race, are created in the image and likeness of God. Also, Christ died and shed His blood for ALL people. Therefore, all people are worthy of love and should enjoy equal rights. Also, we are not called to simply “tolerate” people. We are called to love them. Unfortunately, we all will need to teach very clearly on the issue of race. This came to the front in my family after the murder of Geroge Floyd. We also need to make sure that our children see race in the right way. God is wonderfully creative and humanity is the peak of His creation. Therefore, when we see a variety of races we should rejoice in our God and His creativity!  Finally, when racism comes up in your home, I encourage you to share the story of Venerable Augustus Tolton with your family. He experienced terrible racism within the Catholic Church, and yet he gave his life to the Church as a hold priest. His story is included in Catholic Social Teaching for Youth, our newest resource.  Our exploration of Racism comes directly out of our new book, CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH. CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH a ready-to-use script for Catholic parents as they set to work teaching their children the TRUTH on all of our modern moral and social issues. With full Imprimatur from the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, you can trust this book to effectively teach what is true, while inviting your child into what is also beautiful. Organized around the themes laid out by the USCCB, CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH will walk you and your child through all 31 Catholic Social Teaching topics, from the Dignity of the Human Person, through the Call to Family, Solidarity, Care for the Land and Workers Rights. To get your copy, head here: <a href="https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/products/catholic-social-teaching-for-youth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/products/catholic-social-teaching-for-youth</a> Thank you for listening to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Tuning in each week means so very much! Want to hear more great Catholic content perfect for the whole family? Make sure to tune in each day to the CATHOLIC SPROUTS PODCAST. <a href="https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/</a> Looking for a way to support this podcast? Here are some ideas: <ol> <li> Say a prayer for us! This would be SUCH a gift! </li> <li> Share this podcast with a friend! </li> <li> Purchase something in the Catholic Sprouts Shop: <a href="https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/</a> </li> <li> Drop Nancy an email at <a href="mailto:nancy@catholicsprouts.com">nancy@catholicsprouts.com</a> with a word of encouragement or an idea for a future episode. </li> </ol> This podcast is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. May we all meet there one day! Your sister in the small things, Nancy

J1ST 134: Racism

Terrorism is the use of violence against non-military people for political or personal gain. Terrorism attempts to control or change through fear. 9-11 Was the greatest act of terrorism this country has seen, and when our children learn about the events of that day, we need to be clear that terrorism is wrong.   However, the Bishops teach that when terrorism occurs, we need to look for causes in our own behavior. Why did this group feel that the only course of action they could take was an act of terrorism. Also, the only way for us to avoid terrorism in the future is to focus on justice and love for all people.   The example of Blessed Stanley Rother is a powerful reminder that even in the face of fear and danger, we must continue to love. Also, love looks like faithfulness and fighting for those we are asked to care for.    Our exploration of Terrorism comes directly out of our new book, CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH. CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH a ready-to-use script for Catholic parents as they set to work teaching their children the TRUTH on all of our modern moral and social issues. With full Imprimatur from the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, you can trust this book to effectively teach what is true, while inviting your child into what is also beautiful.   Organized around the themes laid out by the USCCB, CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH will walk you and your child through all 31 Catholic Social Teaching topics, from the Dignity of the Human Person, through the Call to Family, Solidarity, Care for the Land and Workers Rights. To get your copy, head here:  https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/products/catholic-social-teaching-for-youth   Thank you for listening to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Tuning in each week means so very much! Want to hear more great Catholic content perfect for the whole family? Make sure to tune in each day to the CATHOLIC SPROUTS PODCAST. https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/   Looking for a way to support this podcast? Here are some ideas:   Say a prayer for us! This would be SUCH a gift!   Share this podcast with a friend!   Purchase something in the Catholic Sprouts Shop: https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/    Drop Nancy an email at nancy@catholicsprouts.com with a word of encouragement or an idea for a future episode.     This podcast is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. May we all meet there one day!   Your sister in the small things, Nancy

Terrorism is the use of violence against non-military people for political or personal gain. Terrorism attempts to control or change through fear. 9-11 Was the greatest act of terrorism this country has seen, and when our children learn about the events of that day, we need to be clear that terrorism is wrong. However, the Bishops teach that when terrorism occurs, we need to look for causes in our own behavior. Why did this group feel that the only course of action they could take was an act of terrorism. Also, the only way for us to avoid terrorism in the future is to focus on justice and love for all people. The example of Blessed Stanley Rother is a powerful reminder that even in the face of fear and danger, we must continue to love. Also, love looks like faithfulness and fighting for those we are asked to care for.  Our exploration of Terrorism comes directly out of our new book, CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH. CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH a ready-to-use script for Catholic parents as they set to work teaching their children the TRUTH on all of our modern moral and social issues. With full Imprimatur from the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, you can trust this book to effectively teach what is true, while inviting your child into what is also beautiful. Organized around the themes laid out by the USCCB, CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH will walk you and your child through all 31 Catholic Social Teaching topics, from the Dignity of the Human Person, through the Call to Family, Solidarity, Care for the Land and Workers Rights. To get your copy, head here: <a href="https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/products/catholic-social-teaching-for-youth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/products/catholic-social-teaching-for-youth</a> Thank you for listening to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Tuning in each week means so very much! Want to hear more great Catholic content perfect for the whole family? Make sure to tune in each day to the CATHOLIC SPROUTS PODCAST. <a href="https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/</a> Looking for a way to support this podcast? Here are some ideas: <ol> <li> Say a prayer for us! This would be SUCH a gift! </li> <li> Share this podcast with a friend! </li> <li> Purchase something in the Catholic Sprouts Shop: <a href="https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/</a> </li> <li> Drop Nancy an email at <a href="mailto:nancy@catholicsprouts.com">nancy@catholicsprouts.com</a> with a word of encouragement or an idea for a future episode. </li> </ol> This podcast is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. May we all meet there one day! Your sister in the small things, Nancy

J1ST 133: Terrorism

As the Church teachers, war is a terrible phenomenon that should be avoided at all costs. To illustrate this, the Church offers us the “Just War Doctrine” something that applies to every few modern conflicts. In order for a war to be “just” it must:   Be the result of damage by the aggressor that is lasting, grave and certain.   All other means of resolution must have been exhausted   There must be a serious prospect of success and peace following the conflict.   The war must produce less evil that it seeks to eliminate through the conflict.      The opposite of war is peace--and peace is something that we all should be striving for out in our own hearts, homes and communities.    Our exploration of War comes directly out of our new book, CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH. CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH a ready-to-use script for Catholic parents as they set to work teaching their children the TRUTH on all of our modern moral and social issues. With full Imprimatur from the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, you can trust this book to effectively teach what is true, while inviting your child into what is also beautiful.   Organized around the themes laid out by the USCCB, CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH will walk you and your child through all 31 Catholic Social Teaching topics, from the Dignity of the Human Person, through the Call to Family, Solidarity, Care for the Land and Workers Rights. To get your copy, head here:  https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/products/catholic-social-teaching-for-youth   Thank you for listening to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Tuning in each week means so very much! Want to hear more great Catholic content perfect for the whole family? Make sure to tune in each day to the CATHOLIC SPROUTS PODCAST. https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/   Looking for a way to support this podcast? Here are some ideas:   Say a prayer for us! This would be SUCH a gift!   Share this podcast with a friend!   Purchase something in the Catholic Sprouts Shop: https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/    Drop Nancy an email at nancy@catholicsprouts.com with a word of encouragement or an idea for a future episode.     This podcast is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. May we all meet there one day!   Your sister in the small things, Nancy

As the Church teachers, war is a terrible phenomenon that should be avoided at all costs. To illustrate this, the Church offers us the “Just War Doctrine” something that applies to every few modern conflicts. In order for a war to be “just” it must: <ul> <li> Be the result of damage by the aggressor that is lasting, grave and certain. </li> <li> All other means of resolution must have been exhausted </li> <li> There must be a serious prospect of success and peace following the conflict. </li> <li> The war must produce less evil that it seeks to eliminate through the conflict.  </li> </ul> The opposite of war is peace--and peace is something that we all should be striving for out in our own hearts, homes and communities.  Our exploration of War comes directly out of our new book, CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH. CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH a ready-to-use script for Catholic parents as they set to work teaching their children the TRUTH on all of our modern moral and social issues. With full Imprimatur from the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, you can trust this book to effectively teach what is true, while inviting your child into what is also beautiful. Organized around the themes laid out by the USCCB, CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH will walk you and your child through all 31 Catholic Social Teaching topics, from the Dignity of the Human Person, through the Call to Family, Solidarity, Care for the Land and Workers Rights. To get your copy, head here: <a href="https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/products/catholic-social-teaching-for-youth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/products/catholic-social-teaching-for-youth</a> Thank you for listening to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Tuning in each week means so very much! Want to hear more great Catholic content perfect for the whole family? Make sure to tune in each day to the CATHOLIC SPROUTS PODCAST. <a href="https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/</a> Looking for a way to support this podcast? Here are some ideas: <ol> <li> Say a prayer for us! This would be SUCH a gift! </li> <li> Share this podcast with a friend! </li> <li> Purchase something in the Catholic Sprouts Shop: <a href="https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/</a> </li> <li> Drop Nancy an email at <a href="mailto:nancy@catholicsprouts.com">nancy@catholicsprouts.com</a> with a word of encouragement or an idea for a future episode. </li> </ol> This podcast is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. May we all meet there one day! Your sister in the small things, Nancy

J1ST 132: War

Today’s episode explores the fifth theme of Catholic Social Teaching as laid out by the US Bishops. I am discussing both topics, Dignity of Work and Workers Rights, together in this episode.   Above all else, I desire for my children to learn that work has dignity--and this applies to all work: jobs, chores around the house and school work. We are like our Creator when we work, and we are often allowed to be co-creators through our work. Therefore, our work gives us dignity. Also, through our work we are refined and made better versions of ourselves.    St. Joseph is the perfect example of work. While he worked Christ stood at his side, sharing in his work and in conversation. We should all approach our work like this!   In this episode I also outline the five rights our Church defines for all workers. Workers have a right to productive work and fair wages. They also should be free to organize, work in safe conditions and own private property. The Church also defends worker’s right to strike.   Our exploration of Dignity of Work and Workers Rights comes directly out of our new book, CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH. CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH a ready-to-use script for Catholic parents as they set to work teaching their children the TRUTH on all of our modern moral and social issues. With full Imprimatur from the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, you can trust this book to effectively teach what is true, while inviting your child into what is also beautiful.   Organized around the themes laid out by the USCCB, CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH will walk you and your child through all 31 Catholic Social Teaching topics, from the Dignity of the Human Person, through the Call to Family, Solidarity, Care for the Land and Workers Rights. To get your copy, head here:  https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/products/catholic-social-teaching-for-youth   Thank you for listening to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Tuning in each week means so very much! Want to hear more great Catholic content perfect for the whole family? Make sure to tune in each day to the CATHOLIC SPROUTS PODCAST. https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/   Looking for a way to support this podcast? Here are some ideas:   Say a prayer for us! This would be SUCH a gift!   Share this podcast with a friend!   Purchase something in the Catholic Sprouts Shop: https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/    Drop Nancy an email at nancy@catholicsprouts.com with a word of encouragement or an idea for a future episode.     This podcast is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. May we all meet there one day!   Your sister in the small things, Nancy

Today’s episode explores the fifth theme of Catholic Social Teaching as laid out by the US Bishops. I am discussing both topics, Dignity of Work and Workers Rights, together in this episode. Above all else, I desire for my children to learn that work has dignity--and this applies to all work: jobs, chores around the house and school work. We are like our Creator when we work, and we are often allowed to be co-creators through our work. Therefore, our work gives us dignity. Also, through our work we are refined and made better versions of ourselves.  St. Joseph is the perfect example of work. While he worked Christ stood at his side, sharing in his work and in conversation. We should all approach our work like this! In this episode I also outline the five rights our Church defines for all workers. Workers have a right to productive work and fair wages. They also should be free to organize, work in safe conditions and own private property. The Church also defends worker’s right to strike. Our exploration of Dignity of Work and Workers Rights comes directly out of our new book, CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH. CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH a ready-to-use script for Catholic parents as they set to work teaching their children the TRUTH on all of our modern moral and social issues. With full Imprimatur from the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, you can trust this book to effectively teach what is true, while inviting your child into what is also beautiful. Organized around the themes laid out by the USCCB, CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING FOR YOUTH will walk you and your child through all 31 Catholic Social Teaching topics, from the Dignity of the Human Person, through the Call to Family, Solidarity, Care for the Land and Workers Rights. To get your copy, head here: <a href="https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/products/catholic-social-teaching-for-youth" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/products/catholic-social-teaching-for-youth</a> Thank you for listening to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Tuning in each week means so very much! Want to hear more great Catholic content perfect for the whole family? Make sure to tune in each day to the CATHOLIC SPROUTS PODCAST. <a href="https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-sprouts-podcast/</a> Looking for a way to support this podcast? Here are some ideas: <ol> <li> Say a prayer for us! This would be SUCH a gift! </li> <li> Share this podcast with a friend! </li> <li> Purchase something in the Catholic Sprouts Shop: <a href="https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://shop.catholicsprouts.com/</a> </li> <li> Drop Nancy an email at <a href="mailto:nancy@catholicsprouts.com">nancy@catholicsprouts.com</a> with a word of encouragement or an idea for a future episode. </li> </ol> This podcast is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. May we all meet there one day! Your sister in the small things, Nancy

J1ST 131: Dignity of Work and Worker's Rights

Join us as we strive to do just one small thing for love of our Lord Jesus Christ. Each week Nancy will share about the reality of being a Catholic Parent, and how we are called to strive to raise saints despite the fact that we are a sinner. Often times she will be touching on topics covered on the Catholic Sprouts Podcast that week, in a way that is more geared towards adults.

I have recently got into listening to Catholic Podcasts. I absolutely appreciate the honesty I have heard from most of the people I have listened to. I like how you talk about how real life is. I don’t understand the harsh comments about the sex life talk etc. It’s just real talk and she says she is sorry for y’all, but I’m sorry for her having to deal with less than perfect people all the time. Or the talking and not letting guests talk. Whatever. Just keep doing what you’re doing with love! Your message is getting out there. I enjoy it for its information, friendliness, and flaws. If these people want to do it better-Go For It! I personally cannot take rigid people, you can’t make them happy with honesty or anything really. Anyways, just do you! I will keep listening!

People are so rigid

Such a wonderful podcast, thank you for your ministry Nancy!!!

Wonderful

Just One Small Thing Podcast for Catholic Parents

Hey there! Today I am, once again, proving that I have no fear. I am tackling a BIG topic: holiness. Why am I tackling this topic? Because I'm perfect? Because I have some sort of saintly-insight to share with you? Nope. I'm talking about holiness because I too am a sinner, but, like all of you, I am called to holiness. The call to holiness is universal. The spiritual journey is THE MOST IMPORTANT journey and work of our lives. Therefore, let's see if we can walk a bit of the way together. Here are some of the things I cover in this podcast episode:  What is Holiness? What WRONG assumptions might we have that will actually keep us from making any progress toward holiness? The need to be like children in our faith 10 practices that will open us up more and more to holiness:  Become Small Spend at least 10 minutes in prayer each day. Regularly receive Jesus in the Eucharist Read Sacred Scripture Read Catholic Literature Grow closer to Mary and the Saints Follow a structured formation process Regularly attend confession Be part of a supportive community Stay focused on the call to holiness   How we actually make progress on this spiritual journey The Ripple Effect that we can expect to enjoy if we actual strive for holiness, one that will touch every part of our lives, our families and the whole world.  If you are looking to dig deeper into these topics, I encourage you to check out  Called to be Holyby Cardinal Timothy Dolan. As I mentioned at the end of this podcast, I am starting a community called The Small Things Community. The community is for Catholic Married women and for $11 a month you will enjoy:  A new video-based eCourse each month, which focuses on a key part of our faith. A well run, distraction-free community and on-line forum A monthly LIVE book club. FREE access to all of my digital products 50% off all printed products I sell now and those I will offer in the future.  To find out more about the community, head here: http://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/2018/04/new-direction.html Also, since there is a LOT of information in this podcast episode, you can also WATCH this same information as I present it in the video below. https://vimeo.com/263615302/b1cc8b8d3d Your sister in Christ, Nancy

Hey there! Today I am, once again, proving that I have no fear. I am tackling a BIG topic: holiness. Why am I tackling this topic? Because I'm perfect? Because I have some sort of saintly-insight to share with you? Nope. I'm talking about holiness because I too am a sinner, but, like all of you, I am called to holiness. The call to holiness is universal. The spiritual journey is THE MOST IMPORTANT journey and work of our lives. Therefore, let's see if we can walk a bit of the way together. Here are some of the things I cover in this podcast episode: <ul> <li>What is Holiness?</li> <li>What WRONG assumptions might we have that will actually keep us from making any progress toward holiness?</li> <li>The need to be like children in our faith</li> <li>10 practices that will open us up more and more to holiness: <ul> <li>Become Small</li> <li>Spend at least 10 minutes in prayer each day.</li> <li>Regularly receive Jesus in the Eucharist</li> <li>Read Sacred Scripture</li> <li>Read Catholic Literature</li> <li>Grow closer to Mary and the Saints</li> <li>Follow a structured formation process</li> <li>Regularly attend confession</li> <li>Be part of a supportive community</li> <li>Stay focused on the call to holiness</li> </ul> </li> <li>How we actually make progress on this spiritual journey</li> <li>The Ripple Effect that we can expect to enjoy if we actual strive for holiness, one that will touch every part of our lives, our families and the whole world.</li> </ul> If you are looking to dig deeper into these topics, I encourage you to check out <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Called-Archbishop-Timothy-Dolan-Cardinal/dp/1592760724/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1524236672&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=called+to+be+holy&amp;dpID=41Q1Bj%252B4lQL&amp;preST=_SY291_BO1,204,203,200_QL40_&amp;dpSrc=srch" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Called to be Holy</a>by Cardinal Timothy Dolan. As I mentioned at the end of this podcast, I am starting a community called <a href="http://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/2018/04/new-direction.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Small Things Community</a>. The community is for Catholic Married women and for $11 a month you will enjoy: <ul> <li>A new video-based eCourse each month, which focuses on a key part of our faith.</li> <li>A well run, distraction-free community and on-line forum</li> <li>A monthly LIVE book club.</li> <li>FREE access to all of my digital products</li> <li>50% off all printed products I sell now and those I will offer in the future.</li> </ul> To find out more about the community, head here: <a href="http://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/2018/04/new-direction.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/2018/04/new-direction.html</a> Also, since there is a LOT of information in this podcast episode, you can also WATCH this same information as I present it in the video below. <a href="https://vimeo.com/263615302/b1cc8b8d3d" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://vimeo.com/263615302/b1cc8b8d3d</a> Your sister in Christ, Nancy

J1ST 041: The Call to Holiness

Hey friends! Today I'm excited to kick off another series on the podcast. I has so much fun (and got such a good response) doing the Lenten Series that I've decided to spend the next several weeks looking at virtues. I debated for a while where to get these virtues from. I ultimately decided to reflect on the virtues commonly assigned to the mysteries of the Rosary.  Now, there is no "official" set of virtues for the decades of the Rosary. Some incredible saints, including St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta, Pope St. John Paul II, and St. Padre Pio, have written Rosary devotions that assigned a virtue to each decade.  While creating my ROSARY BOOKLET I refer to all of these devotionals. I have found it to be VERY powerful to reflect on a virtue while praying each decade of the Rosary. Reflecting on that virtue has helped me understand Mary and Jesus better. Reflecting on the virtue has also helped me apply this mystery to my own life in real and powerful ways. Today's episode starts with the First Joyful Mystery: The Annunciation. The virtue for this mystery is JOY. Major topics discussed in this episode include the difference between Joy and Happiness, the complex joy of Mary at the annunciation and why joy, and not happiness, can still be present during times of great pain and loss. Here are a few links:  FREE set of 20 coloring pages to help you reflect on the Virtues of the Rosary: https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/virtue Find my ROSARY BOOKLET Here. Here is a reflection I wrote on  Choosing Joy as Mothers. One of the most beautiful pronouncements of joy is found in the Magnificat.  Here is a free coloring page for adults with the words of the Magnificat.   Thank you for being here! And please, be joyful! We are made for heaven and redeemed by the blood of our Savior! Your sister in the small things,

Hey friends! Today I'm excited to kick off another series on the podcast. I has so much fun (and got such a good response) doing the Lenten Series that I've decided to spend the next several weeks looking at virtues. I debated for a while where to get these virtues from. I ultimately decided to reflect on the virtues commonly assigned to the mysteries of the Rosary.  Now, there is no "official" set of virtues for the decades of the Rosary. Some incredible saints, including St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta, Pope St. John Paul II, and St. Padre Pio, have written Rosary devotions that assigned a virtue to each decade.  While creating my ROSARY BOOKLET I refer to all of these devotionals. I have found it to be VERY powerful to reflect on a virtue while praying each decade of the Rosary. Reflecting on that virtue has helped me understand Mary and Jesus better. Reflecting on the virtue has also helped me apply this mystery to my own life in real and powerful ways. Today's episode starts with the First Joyful Mystery: The Annunciation. The virtue for this mystery is JOY. Major topics discussed in this episode include the difference between Joy and Happiness, the complex joy of Mary at the annunciation and why joy, and not happiness, can still be present during times of great pain and loss. Here are a few links: <ul> <li>FREE set of 20 coloring pages to help you reflect on the Virtues of the Rosary: <a href="https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/virtue" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/virtue</a></li> <li>Find my <a href="http://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/Rosary-Book" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ROSARY BOOKLET </a>Here.</li> <li>Here is a reflection I wrote on <a href="http://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/2014/12/on-choosing-joy-motherhood.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Choosing Joy as Mothers</a>.</li> <li>One of the most beautiful pronouncements of joy is found in the Magnificat. <a href="http://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/2016/09/magnificat-catholic-moms-coloring-page.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Here is a free coloring page for adults with the words of the Magnificat. </a></li> </ul> Thank you for being here! And please, be joyful! We are made for heaven and redeemed by the blood of our Savior! Your sister in the small things,

J1ST 047: Choosing Joy

Hey there friends! It's a big day around this small corner of the internet. Today I am sharing the LAST installment of the VIRTUES OF THE ROSARY. I can hardly believe it! I started discussing these virtues last summer, and here we are finishing them up as we approach another summer. So, today is all about the virtue attached to the final Glorious Mystery: the Coronation of Mary as Queen of Heaven and Earth. The virtue for this mystery is FRIENDSHIP WITH MARY. Since I feel like I have been talking about being close to Mary for this entire series, I start this episode by looking at Friendship in general. First of all, we need to remember that clearly friendship is important to God. While on Earth Jesus went out of His way to form friendships and He seems to even had had various types of friendships, and His best friend was likely St. John, the Beloved Disciple. There are two problems with modern friendships:  We often USE our friends for our own gains, and don't really love them. We think that one friendship (or marriage) should be the only friendship that we need. And this is simply not true.  True friendships require time, vulnerability and listening. These are the building blocks for any friendship and we can apply them to our friendship with Mary as well. We are called to spend daily time with Mary, share the secrets of our heart with her and listen to what she has to share with us. We need to listen, in particular to her message from Fatima: to Pray the Rosary and to accept suffering for the redemption of sinners. And that is it! I certainly enjoyed recording these episodes and I pray that they have enriched your own praying of the Rosary. Once again, if you would like to grab a copy of the Rosary Booklet where I offer reflections of each mystery of the Rosary, you can grab one right here: https://catholicsprouts.com/rosary-book And, the Just One Small Thing Podcast will be taking a break for the months of June and July! But, I will be back with new weekly episodes in August (God willing). Your sister in the small things, Nancy

Hey there friends! It's a big day around this small corner of the internet. Today I am sharing the LAST installment of the VIRTUES OF THE ROSARY. I can hardly believe it! I started discussing these virtues last summer, and here we are finishing them up as we approach another summer. So, today is all about the virtue attached to the final Glorious Mystery: the Coronation of Mary as Queen of Heaven and Earth. The virtue for this mystery is FRIENDSHIP WITH MARY. Since I feel like I have been talking about being close to Mary for this entire series, I start this episode by looking at Friendship in general. First of all, we need to remember that clearly friendship is important to God. While on Earth Jesus went out of His way to form friendships and He seems to even had had various types of friendships, and His best friend was likely St. John, the Beloved Disciple. There are two problems with modern friendships: <ol> <li>We often USE our friends for our own gains, and don't really love them.</li> <li>We think that one friendship (or marriage) should be the only friendship that we need. And this is simply not true.</li> </ol> True friendships require time, vulnerability and listening. These are the building blocks for any friendship and we can apply them to our friendship with Mary as well. We are called to spend daily time with Mary, share the secrets of our heart with her and listen to what she has to share with us. We need to listen, in particular to her message from Fatima: to Pray the Rosary and to accept suffering for the redemption of sinners. And that is it! I certainly enjoyed recording these episodes and I pray that they have enriched your own praying of the Rosary. Once again, if you would like to grab a copy of the Rosary Booklet where I offer reflections of each mystery of the Rosary, you can grab one right here: <a href="https://catholicsprouts.com/rosary-book" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://catholicsprouts.com/rosary-book</a> And, the Just One Small Thing Podcast will be taking a break for the months of June and July! But, I will be back with new weekly episodes in August (God willing). Your sister in the small things, Nancy

J1ST 081: Friendship with Mary

Ready for a beautiful, meaningful episode? Well, Lizzy Grayson, a mom of little ones, practitioner of NFP and fellow podcast listener delivers a beautiful, little episode for you today! A few weeks back Lizzy emailed me asking if I would consider doing an episode on Humanae Vitae. Sure, I said, if you come on as a guest and share about it! You see, I read Humanae Vitaein college...a million years ago, and Lizzy said something so interesting--she said that this Papal Document had profoundly impacted her and her husband. This surprised me because I have heard LOTS of couples talk about how Theology of the Bodyimpacted their relationship, but Humanae Vitae? Well, after listening to Lizzy I bet you will feel the beauty of the document as well. Humanae Vitaecame out in 1968 and was written by Pope Paul the 6th as a response to the widespread use of contraception. Many Catholics argued that the pill should be okay for Catholics to use, but the Pope clearly stated that since contraception make the marital act no longer unitive and procreative, thus changing this sacramental act, it went against church teaching. We can see now just how prophetic Humanae Vitaehas been. In this short encyclical Pope Paul 6th predicts that widespread use of the pill will lead to increased infidelity, it will be forced on women and women will be respected less. The church, however, remains compassionate for Catholic couples. It acknowledges that not being able to use contraception is a cross to bare. It also encourages us to grow in temperance and charity, which we have a greater opportunity to do when we don't use contraception. It really was a wonderful and powerful conversation with Lizzy. If you are listening to this and upset by anything we said, please feel free to reach out to me via email. I would be happy to chat with you about it. Also, please don't feel condemned by anything we said here. We are all sinners and if you have failed to live out fully the church's teaching on contraception, please, do not despair! Thankfully, there is forgiveness for all of us, for whatever we might have done! Believe in that and bring these things to the Lord! Here are a few helpful links:  You can read Humane Vitaeonline for free, right HERE. You can also read all of Casti Connubii, an encyclical written by Pope Pius the XI and mentioned by Lizzy in the podcast, online for free. Find it HERE.  Your sister in the small things,  Nancy

Ready for a beautiful, meaningful episode? Well, Lizzy Grayson, a mom of little ones, practitioner of NFP and fellow podcast listener delivers a beautiful, little episode for you today! A few weeks back Lizzy emailed me asking if I would consider doing an episode on Humanae Vitae. Sure, I said, if you come on as a guest and share about it! You see, I read Humanae Vitaein college...a million years ago, and Lizzy said something so interesting--she said that this Papal Document had profoundly impacted her and her husband. This surprised me because I have heard LOTS of couples talk about how Theology of the Bodyimpacted their relationship, but Humanae Vitae? Well, after listening to Lizzy I bet you will feel the beauty of the document as well. Humanae Vitaecame out in 1968 and was written by Pope Paul the 6th as a response to the widespread use of contraception. Many Catholics argued that the pill should be okay for Catholics to use, but the Pope clearly stated that since contraception make the marital act no longer unitive and procreative, thus changing this sacramental act, it went against church teaching. We can see now just how prophetic Humanae Vitaehas been. In this short encyclical Pope Paul 6th predicts that widespread use of the pill will lead to increased infidelity, it will be forced on women and women will be respected less. The church, however, remains compassionate for Catholic couples. It acknowledges that not being able to use contraception is a cross to bare. It also encourages us to grow in temperance and charity, which we have a greater opportunity to do when we don't use contraception. It really was a wonderful and powerful conversation with Lizzy. If you are listening to this and upset by anything we said, please feel free to reach out to me via email. I would be happy to chat with you about it. Also, please don't feel condemned by anything we said here. We are all sinners and if you have failed to live out fully the church's teaching on contraception, please, do not despair! Thankfully, there is forgiveness for all of us, for whatever we might have done! Believe in that and bring these things to the Lord! Here are a few helpful links: <ul> <li>You can read Humane Vitaeonline for free, right <a href="http://www.papalencyclicals.net/paul06/p6humana.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</li> <li>You can also read all of Casti Connubii, an encyclical written by Pope Pius the XI and mentioned by Lizzy in the podcast, online for free. Find it <a href="http://www.papalencyclicals.net/paul06/p6humana.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</li> </ul> Your sister in the small things,  Nancy

J1ST 059: Humanae Vita

Hey friends! I have a wonderful guest on the podcast today. Jennifer Sharpe, a recent convert and author of a few wonderful Catholic resource on the mass for children is here to day. Now, I know that for many of you (myself included), although you are dedicated to bringing your children to mass each week, it is HARD to manage them while at mass...and sometimes even harder to teaching them about what is happening at mass. Jennifer offers some beautiful help by reminding us that all of mass (and our faith) can be boiled down to one point: Jesus loves you, and He wants your love in return. Jennifer said we should take each little piece of the mass (from blessing ourselves with holy water to the closing hymn) and break down how that little part of the mass demonstrates Jesus' love for us, and gives us an opportunity to show our love for him in return. What a beautiful concept, right? Jennifer also shares that the love of and for Jesus should sit at the absolute center of our lives and our homes. Having perfectly behaved children at mass is not as important as what is happening INSIDE of those children. It is much more important that they understand Jesus' love for them than that they sit perfectly still.  Powerful words to live by! I really encourage you to check out Jennifer's resources on the mass for Catholic Children. She has 2 books. The first is for children ages 7-13 and is called The Mass Book for Catholic Children. The other is for younger children and is called My First Interactive Mass Book for Catholic Kids. You can find both of these thoughtful and adorable books on Amazon. Also. although it requires a bit more crafting, I use this  FELT MASS QUIET BOOKwith my children. And finally, hang in there mommas! It is good to be there with ALL of the kids dealing with ALL the behaviors. There is literally nothing more important we can do for our kids.  I know the struggle--I experience it every week, but I also know how important this is. Your sister in the small things,  Nancy

Hey friends! I have a wonderful guest on the podcast today. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jennifersharpe.author" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jennifer Sharpe</a>, a recent convert and author of a few wonderful Catholic resource on the mass for children is here to day. Now, I know that for many of you (myself included), although you are dedicated to bringing your children to mass each week, it is HARD to manage them while at mass...and sometimes even harder to teaching them about what is happening at mass. Jennifer offers some beautiful help by reminding us that all of mass (and our faith) can be boiled down to one point: Jesus loves you, and He wants your love in return. Jennifer said we should take each little piece of the mass (from blessing ourselves with holy water to the closing hymn) and break down how that little part of the mass demonstrates Jesus' love for us, and gives us an opportunity to show our love for him in return. What a beautiful concept, right? Jennifer also shares that the love of and for Jesus should sit at the absolute center of our lives and our homes. Having perfectly behaved children at mass is not as important as what is happening INSIDE of those children. It is much more important that they understand Jesus' love for them than that they sit perfectly still.  Powerful words to live by! I really encourage you to check out Jennifer's resources on the mass for Catholic Children. She has 2 books. The first is for children ages 7-13 and is called The Mass Book for Catholic Children. The other is for younger children and is called My First Interactive Mass Book for Catholic Kids. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Jennifer-Sharpe/e/B0764L1JQ6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">You can find both of these thoughtful and adorable books on Amazon.</a> Also. although it requires a bit more crafting, I use this <a href="https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/2016/04/mass-quiet-book-pattern-and-printable-on-sale-today.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> FELT MASS QUIET BOOK</a>with my children. And finally, hang in there mommas! It is good to be there with ALL of the kids dealing with ALL the behaviors. There is literally nothing more important we can do for our kids.  I know the struggle--I experience it every week, but I also know how important this is. Your sister in the small things,  Nancy

J1ST 060: Our Children At Mass

Hello and welcome back! Here's hoping that you had a JOYFUL Easter and that you are still celebrating in earnest!  After all, we are an EASTER PEOPLE. I thought we would kick off this Easter Season with a podcast I have been meaning to record and send out into the world for a while now: WHY MARY. Here's why I wanted to do a podcast on Mary. The first few months of this year I have been talking about Mary A LOT. Through God's goodness I had a pretty special moment with Mary following a terrible tragedy, and that special moment has spurred me on to create a Rosary book and really try to increase Marian devotion to the Rosary. And it has been amazing to see Mary work!  So many people have written to me about becoming dedicated to their Rosary again, and I am amazed about how God can use even His lowliest servants. But, through it all, I have also gotten a few emails and comments similar to this one: "I'm a Catholic, and I love Mary, but should be really be praying to her instead of Jesus" And I completely get it--and used to feel the same uneasiness. Sometimes it feels like a deep spiritual relationship with Mary is in conflict with a relationship with Jesus (spoiler alert, it isn't). For many of us we think, yes, I was raised Catholic and it feels almost natural to go to Mary with my needs...but WHY MARY? Why bother with Mary when we can just go directly to God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. This is an excellent question that I offer some thoughts on this in this episode. There is so so much to say on Marian devotion and prayer, and I don't even attempt to cover it all. Instead I touch on only two real points:  Mary as the New Eve. Mary as the greatest disciple.  I hope that listening helps you understand a little bit more about why God has seen it good and fitting that we take our needs to Mary and why He allows so much grace and goodness to flow through her. I DID NOT record this episode to address Protestant issues with Mary. Instead this episode is meant only to help practicing Catholics refine their Marian beliefs and understand better why we do what we do concerning our wonderful Blessed Mother. In this episode I also reference a few books including 33 Days to Morning Glory by Fr. Gatley which I can't recommend highly enough. I hope this is helpful! Your sister in Christ,

Hello and welcome back! Here's hoping that you had a JOYFUL Easter and that you are still celebrating in earnest!  After all, we are an EASTER PEOPLE. I thought we would kick off this Easter Season with a podcast I have been meaning to record and send out into the world for a while now: WHY MARY. Here's why I wanted to do a podcast on Mary. The first few months of this year I have been talking about Mary A LOT. Through God's goodness I had a pretty special moment with Mary following a terrible tragedy, and that special moment has spurred me on to create a Rosary book and really try to increase Marian devotion to the Rosary. And it has been amazing to see Mary work!  So many people have written to me about becoming dedicated to their Rosary again, and I am amazed about how God can use even His lowliest servants. But, through it all, I have also gotten a few emails and comments similar to this one: "I'm a Catholic, and I love Mary, but should be really be praying to her instead of Jesus" And I completely get it--and used to feel the same uneasiness. Sometimes it feels like a deep spiritual relationship with Mary is in conflict with a relationship with Jesus (spoiler alert, it isn't). For many of us we think, yes, I was raised Catholic and it feels almost natural to go to Mary with my needs...but WHY MARY? Why bother with Mary when we can just go directly to God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. This is an excellent question that I offer some thoughts on this in this episode. There is so so much to say on Marian devotion and prayer, and I don't even attempt to cover it all. Instead I touch on only two real points: <ol> <li>Mary as the New Eve.</li> <li>Mary as the greatest disciple.</li> </ol> I hope that listening helps you understand a little bit more about why God has seen it good and fitting that we take our needs to Mary and why He allows so much grace and goodness to flow through her. I DID NOT record this episode to address Protestant issues with Mary. Instead this episode is meant only to help practicing Catholics refine their Marian beliefs and understand better why we do what we do concerning our wonderful Blessed Mother. In this episode I also reference a few books including <a href="http://amzn.to/2qVQlBi" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">33 Days to Morning Glory by Fr. Gatley</a> which I can't recommend highly enough. I hope this is helpful! Your sister in Christ,

J1ST 038: Why Mary

First of all, I pray that your Lent is off to a beautiful and Holy start! To be completely honest, I have been CRAVING Lent. My life has just started to feel a little too noisy and busy and I am glad the Church is wise enough to give us a season to get back on track. So, I decided to take advantage of this season and do a little series on the Podcast. Lent is meant to be a season of quiet and growth, so I will be spending all 7 Wednesdays of Lent talking about the major vices we all face. The seven vices we will be discussing are Anger, Envy, Lust, Pride, Gluttony, Greed and Sloth.  I will be using the incredible book, Victory Over Vice, by Venerable Fulton Sheen to talk about these Vices. We will be using that book as wonderful guide for these episodes but, as always, we will be talking specifically about how these vices might be a part of our lives as Catholic Women. Up first, Anger. Each Vice that Fulton Sheen discusses grows out of some of the last words that Christ said while dying on the cross. The words we examine for the vice of Anger are, "Father, forgiven them for they know not what they do." Fulton Sheen points to 2 lessons we need to learn about anger from these words of Christ:  The Reason for Forgiveness is Ignorance. There are no limits to Forgiveness.  Ignorance plays a major role here. We are often ignorant of another person's motivations. We are nearly always ignorant of our own sins, although keenly aware of another person's sins. And we are often ignorant of all the factors impacting our situation, seeing only our own little part of it. And so, we struggle to let go of our anger and move toward forgiveness. And yet, God, who knows all, always forgives. So, it is important to remember our ignorance and always assume that there are factors you are not aware of. In the episode I talk about marriage a lot and how these lessons on anger can make us better, more loving wives.  We do struggle with anger at times, like anyone, and I feel like what Fulton Sheen reveals on the topic of anger are important things for me to learn. Let's hope I learn them! There is so much more to this episode, and I just know you will grow from the wisdom of Venerable Fulton Sheen, just as I have. So head over and listen! Next week we are tackling a big, ugly vice: Envy.  See you then! Nancy

First of all, I pray that your Lent is off to a beautiful and Holy start! To be completely honest, I have been CRAVING Lent. My life has just started to feel a little too noisy and busy and I am glad the Church is wise enough to give us a season to get back on track. So, I decided to take advantage of this season and do a little series on the Podcast. Lent is meant to be a season of quiet and growth, so I will be spending all 7 Wednesdays of Lent talking about the major vices we all face. The seven vices we will be discussing are Anger, Envy, Lust, Pride, Gluttony, Greed and Sloth.  I will be using the incredible book, <a href="http://amzn.to/2BTbNeZ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Victory Over Vice, by Venerable Fulton Sheen</a> to talk about these Vices. We will be using that book as wonderful guide for these episodes but, as always, we will be talking specifically about how these vices might be a part of our lives as Catholic Women. Up first, Anger. Each Vice that Fulton Sheen discusses grows out of some of the last words that Christ said while dying on the cross. The words we examine for the vice of Anger are, "Father, forgiven them for they know not what they do." Fulton Sheen points to 2 lessons we need to learn about anger from these words of Christ: <ol> <li>The Reason for Forgiveness is Ignorance.</li> <li>There are no limits to Forgiveness.</li> </ol> Ignorance plays a major role here. We are often ignorant of another person's motivations. We are nearly always ignorant of our own sins, although keenly aware of another person's sins. And we are often ignorant of all the factors impacting our situation, seeing only our own little part of it. And so, we struggle to let go of our anger and move toward forgiveness. And yet, God, who knows all, always forgives. So, it is important to remember our ignorance and always assume that there are factors you are not aware of. In the episode I talk about marriage a lot and how these lessons on anger can make us better, more loving wives.  We do struggle with anger at times, like anyone, and I feel like what Fulton Sheen reveals on the topic of anger are important things for me to learn. Let's hope I learn them! There is so much more to this episode, and I just know you will grow from the wisdom of Venerable Fulton Sheen, just as I have. So head over and listen! Next week we are tackling a big, ugly vice: Envy.  See you then! Nancy

J1ST 031: Anger

Hey there friends- Before I dive in to the topic of today's podcast I want you to think back to when you were preparing for First Communion. Remember how we all learned that Eucharist comes for the Greek word meaning Thanksgiving? I distinctly remember learning that and, in that moment, thinking, "Well, that's sort of strange."But then I quickly dismissed the strangeness telling myself only that Eucharist must be Thanksgiving simply because we are SO thankful that God is truly present in the Eucharist. And so I moved on and didn't really think about this connection until, well, yesterday when I sat down to research this podcast. You see, today we are continuing on with our series on the virtues of the rosary. We are wrapping up the Luminous Mysteries by discussing Thankfulness as the virtue to meditate on while praying the 5th Luminous Mystery, the Institution of the Eucharist. Turns out that there are some beautiful and deep theological reasons for naming Christ's true presence in the Mass the 'Eucharist,' or thanksgiving. The first thing to note is that in scripture Christ thanks God for allowing him to sacrifice himself--he thanks him! Therefore he sets as an example that when we acknowledge where we came from, who created us, the only way we can respond is with thanksgiving, and, as Christ demonstrated, thanksgiving demands a giving of self. The mass is the highest form of thanksgiving that we can offer God--and in the mass we hear the words of Jesus from the last supper, words that remind us that he THANKED God for the opportunity to sacrifice himself for us. Therefore, when we attend Holy Mass we are called to join in this thanksgiving AND this sacrifice, because the two are connected. Powerful stuff. I mentioned a few links in this episode, and here they are:  All of these virtues, along with beautiful paintings, reflections and prayers can be found in my Rosary Book. If you are looking for a beautiful academic planner, check out my Marian Themed Planner. It is on sale now. Make sure to download the free coloring pagesthat will help you remember and engage with the virtues of the Rosary.  Thanks, as always, for being here! Your sister in the small things. Nancy

Hey there friends- Before I dive in to the topic of today's podcast I want you to think back to when you were preparing for First Communion. Remember how we all learned that Eucharist comes for the Greek word meaning Thanksgiving? I distinctly remember learning that and, in that moment, thinking, "Well, that's sort of strange."But then I quickly dismissed the strangeness telling myself only that Eucharist must be Thanksgiving simply because we are SO thankful that God is truly present in the Eucharist. And so I moved on and didn't really think about this connection until, well, yesterday when I sat down to research this podcast. You see, today we are continuing on with our series on the virtues of the rosary. We are wrapping up the Luminous Mysteries by discussing Thankfulness as the virtue to meditate on while praying the 5th Luminous Mystery, the Institution of the Eucharist. Turns out that there are some beautiful and deep theological reasons for naming Christ's true presence in the Mass the 'Eucharist,' or thanksgiving. The first thing to note is that in scripture Christ thanks God for allowing him to sacrifice himself--he thanks him! Therefore he sets as an example that when we acknowledge where we came from, who created us, the only way we can respond is with thanksgiving, and, as Christ demonstrated, thanksgiving demands a giving of self. The mass is the highest form of thanksgiving that we can offer God--and in the mass we hear the words of Jesus from the last supper, words that remind us that he THANKED God for the opportunity to sacrifice himself for us. Therefore, when we attend Holy Mass we are called to join in this thanksgiving AND this sacrifice, because the two are connected. Powerful stuff. I mentioned a few links in this episode, and here they are: <ul> <li>All of these virtues, along with beautiful paintings, reflections and prayers can be found in my <a href="https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/rosary-book" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rosary Book</a>.</li> <li>If you are looking for a beautiful academic planner, check out my <a href="https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/planner" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Marian Themed Planner</a>. It is on sale now.</li> <li>Make sure to download the <a href="https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/virtue" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">free coloring pages</a>that will help you remember and engage with the virtues of the Rosary.</li> </ul> Thanks, as always, for being here! Your sister in the small things. Nancy

J1ST 057: The Eucharist and Thankfulness

Hey there my friends! Welcome back to our series on the virtues of the Rosary. Today we are wrapping up our walk through the virtues of the Joyful Mysteries. We have already talked about the Annunciation (joy), the Visitation (service), the Nativity (detachment from the world) and the Presentation (consecration). So, that leaves only the 5th Joyful Mystery, Finding the Child Jesus in the Temple. The virtue for this mystery is Doing God's Work. This episode turned out sort of interesting. In many ways it is simply an explanation of the Catholic Church's teaching on justification, or salvation. As you might now, Protestants state that we are saved by "faith alone," while the Catholic Church teaches that we are saved by "faith and works". This can be misleading mostly because Catholics and Protestants have different definitions or understandings of Justification. While Protestants believe that justification or salvation is a singular EVENT (they might often ask each other, "Have you been saved?"), Catholics believe that salvation is a process or a journey, one we will likely still be working on in purgatory (When asked if we have been saved we should respond, "Yes! I was saved when Christ died for me, I am saved now as I pursue holiness and ask for forgiveness and I will be saved in the end!") We agree that we are saved through Jesus Christ and that we could never do anything to "earn" God's love and mercy. Catholics simply point out that in order for faith to be REAL it must be alive and "work in love", as St. Paul writes. And, as our faith deepens we will work more and more in love! Much of this debate is semantics, but I hope that this discussion is helpful if you have Protestants in your life that you would like to share the truth of the church with. The truth is that most  Catholics, I think, are confused, or at least confusing, on this point. We need to know our faith and be able to talk about it clearly if we are ever going to share it!   I really hope that this allows you to deepen your contemplation of the 4th Joyful Mystery of the Rosary! Links mentioned in this episode:  You can find all of these virtues as well as scripture, reflections and mediations in my little Rosary Book. Download and print these 20 FREE coloring pagesdepicting and helping you reflect on the virtues of the Rosary.  Thank you, as always, for being here! Your sister in the small things, Nancy

Hey there my friends! Welcome back to our series on the virtues of the Rosary. Today we are wrapping up our walk through the virtues of the Joyful Mysteries. We have already talked about the Annunciation (joy), the Visitation (service), the Nativity (detachment from the world) and the Presentation (consecration). So, that leaves only the 5th Joyful Mystery, Finding the Child Jesus in the Temple. The virtue for this mystery is Doing God's Work. This episode turned out sort of interesting. In many ways it is simply an explanation of the Catholic Church's teaching on justification, or salvation. As you might now, Protestants state that we are saved by "faith alone," while the Catholic Church teaches that we are saved by "faith and works". This can be misleading mostly because Catholics and Protestants have different definitions or understandings of Justification. While Protestants believe that justification or salvation is a singular EVENT (they might often ask each other, "Have you been saved?"), Catholics believe that salvation is a process or a journey, one we will likely still be working on in purgatory (When asked if we have been saved we should respond, "Yes! I was saved when Christ died for me, I am saved now as I pursue holiness and ask for forgiveness and I will be saved in the end!") We agree that we are saved through Jesus Christ and that we could never do anything to "earn" God's love and mercy. Catholics simply point out that in order for faith to be REAL it must be alive and "work in love", as St. Paul writes. And, as our faith deepens we will work more and more in love! Much of this debate is semantics, but I hope that this discussion is helpful if you have Protestants in your life that you would like to share the truth of the church with. The truth is that most  Catholics, I think, are confused, or at least confusing, on this point. We need to know our faith and be able to talk about it clearly if we are ever going to share it! I really hope that this allows you to deepen your contemplation of the 4th Joyful Mystery of the Rosary! Links mentioned in this episode: <ul> <li>You can find all of these virtues as well as scripture, reflections and mediations in my little <a href="https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/Rosary-Book" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rosary Book</a>.</li> <li>Download and print these <a href="https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/virtue" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">20 FREE coloring pages</a>depicting and helping you reflect on the virtues of the Rosary.</li> </ul> Thank you, as always, for being here! Your sister in the small things, Nancy

J1ST 051: Doing God's Work

Hey friends! Today's podcast is a little different, and perhaps a little more personal that usual. We recently went through another miscarriage and are dealing with that. This loss is particularly hard because we are still grieving the loss of a baby at 20 weeks, who died on Thanksgiving of last year.  I thought about not mentioning this recent loss at all on the podcast, but you all have so generously shared with me and I know that healing can only take place when we open up and share what has happened to us. This episode will walk you through this entire experience of loss. If you too are suffering through a loss right now, I hope that my story brings you comfort. We can't see God' whole plan, and if you are feeling frustrated with God right now, I get it. I feel the same way. It is hard for me not to get hung up on what is fair.  And yet, we are called to trust, even though trusting (and hoping) feels like the stupidest thing we could possibly do.  For the past couple months I have been on a quest to build trust in my relationship with God. I have felt this pull most profoundly through the life and experiences of St. Fautina of Poland and the Divine Mercy which was revealed to her. I have found comfort and challenge during this time in both the image of the Divine Mercy and the Divine Mercy Chaplet.  I'm not sure how much "everyday wisdom" you will find in this episode. Instead I hoped to share the truth of the struggle to trust, especially after pain and loss. Here are few links that might be helpful.  In Episode 22 of the Podcast I talked about  the baby we lost to Stillbirth in November. We named this baby Max.  Here is a reflection I wrote a couple years ago after my first miscarriage. This post demonstrates just how different each and every loss is!  And finally, here is a wonderful list of  things you can do to heal and remember your baby after suffering a miscarriage.  Know that you are in my prayers--especially if you are experiencing a loss or carrying the heavy cross of infertility. Your sister in the small things, Nancy

Hey friends! Today's podcast is a little different, and perhaps a little more personal that usual. We recently went through another miscarriage and are dealing with that. This loss is particularly hard because we are still grieving the loss of a baby at 20 weeks, who died on Thanksgiving of last year.  I thought about not mentioning this recent loss at all on the podcast, but you all have so generously shared with me and I know that healing can only take place when we open up and share what has happened to us. This episode will walk you through this entire experience of loss. If you too are suffering through a loss right now, I hope that my story brings you comfort. We can't see God' whole plan, and if you are feeling frustrated with God right now, I get it. I feel the same way. It is hard for me not to get hung up on what is fair.  And yet, we are called to trust, even though trusting (and hoping) feels like the stupidest thing we could possibly do.  For the past couple months I have been on a quest to build trust in my relationship with God. I have felt this pull most profoundly through the life and experiences of St. Fautina of Poland and the Divine Mercy which was revealed to her. I have found comfort and challenge during this time in both the image of the Divine Mercy and the Divine Mercy Chaplet.  I'm not sure how much "everyday wisdom" you will find in this episode. Instead I hoped to share the truth of the struggle to trust, especially after pain and loss. Here are few links that might be helpful. <ul> <li>In Episode 22 of the Podcast I talked about <a href="http://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/2017/12/j1st-022-on-still-being-here.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> the baby we lost to Stillbirth in November</a>. We named this baby Max.</li> <li><a href="http://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/2015/10/because-miscarraige-change-everything.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Here is a reflection I wrote a couple years ago after my first miscarriage</a>. This post demonstrates just how different each and every loss is! </li> <li>And finally, here is a wonderful list of <a href="http://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/2017/07/over-30-ideas-to-memorialize-your-miscarriage.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> things you can do to heal and remember your baby after suffering a miscarriage</a>.</li> </ul> Know that you are in my prayers--especially if you are experiencing a loss or carrying the heavy cross of infertility. Your sister in the small things, Nancy

J1ST 046: When Trust Seems Foolish

Housework is an unavoidable part of many of our days.  It is something we dread, and put off and force ourselves to just get through. But, housework can be much more than that. Housework is a call to and opportunity for Holiness. Although I struggle with this as well, I worked hard to research and pray about this topic and I have come up with 3 points to consider when it comes to housework and holiness. 1. We are not "too good" for the menial work on cleaning and cooking and caring for our family. 2. The work we do around the house is an opportunity to show our love for our family. 3. When we engage in housework we have an opportunity to commune with may of the holy women that have come before us, including beloved grandmothers and our Blessed Mother. Thanks for listening and I hope that this episode is a blessing for you!

Housework is an unavoidable part of many of our days.  It is something we dread, and put off and force ourselves to just get through. But, housework can be much more than that. Housework is a call to and opportunity for Holiness. Although I struggle with this as well, I worked hard to research and pray about this topic and I have come up with 3 points to consider when it comes to housework and holiness. 1. We are not "too good" for the menial work on cleaning and cooking and caring for our family. 2. The work we do around the house is an opportunity to show our love for our family. 3. When we engage in housework we have an opportunity to commune with may of the holy women that have come before us, including beloved grandmothers and our Blessed Mother. Thanks for listening and I hope that this episode is a blessing for you!

J1ST 020: The Holiness of Housework

Hey there! Today we are jumping back into the Virtues of the Rosary series! We already walked through all of the virtues associated with the Joyful Mysteries, so this episode talks about the first Luminous Mystery: The Baptism of Christ in the Jordan.  It was, admitted, a little bit more difficult to assign virtues to the Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary. As I have already shared, I have taken most of the virtues I share with you from the writings of St. Padre Pio. However, since the Luminous Mysteries came after the time of Padre Pio, he didn't have a chance to assign a virtue to them!  Regardless, I did find several good resources, and I consulted with my Grandpa! The virtue of Being Beloved, which I assigned to the first Luminous Mystery, offers a lot of powerful things to reflect on, especially in this day and age when we are bombarded by so many false ideas of what love is.  In this episode I largely discuss all of the ways that we attempt to chase down counterfeit loves. We resist being God's Beloved, or giving ourselves fully to another, our spouse, in authentic, self-emptying love, and instead chase down shadows or reflections of love in things like pornography, compulsive shopping or seeking the praise of other. I reference several things in this episode. Here is a quick list of the links discussed:  Check out my new Marian-Themed planner, which goes on sale today, right here: https://dosmallthingswithlove.com/planner. Discover new ways to love and respect your husband with a 7 day challenge. Totally free. Sign up here: https://dosmallthingswithlove.com/husband Download your FREE coloring pages for the Virtues of the Rosary: https://dosmallthingswithlove.com/virtue Grab a copy of the Rosary Booklet: https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/Rosary-Book I also reference a great Catholic Speaker, Matt Fradd. He has many great videos on youtube and several powerful books on the topic of pornography. I mentioned this bookthat we are reading this month in the Small Things Community.   I hope that just maybe something I said here is helpful and prompts you to explore your own acceptance of being God's Beloved.  I would also love it if you considered sharing this episode with another Catholic woman that you think might benefit from it. Your sister in the small things, Nancy

Hey there! Today we are jumping back into the Virtues of the Rosary series! We already walked through all of the virtues associated with the Joyful Mysteries, so this episode talks about the first Luminous Mystery: The Baptism of Christ in the Jordan.  It was, admitted, a little bit more difficult to assign virtues to the Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary. As I have already shared, I have taken most of the virtues I share with you from the writings of St. Padre Pio. However, since the Luminous Mysteries came after the time of Padre Pio, he didn't have a chance to assign a virtue to them!  Regardless, I did find several good resources, and I consulted with my Grandpa! The virtue of Being Beloved, which I assigned to the first Luminous Mystery, offers a lot of powerful things to reflect on, especially in this day and age when we are bombarded by so many false ideas of what love is.  In this episode I largely discuss all of the ways that we attempt to chase down counterfeit loves. We resist being God's Beloved, or giving ourselves fully to another, our spouse, in authentic, self-emptying love, and instead chase down shadows or reflections of love in things like pornography, compulsive shopping or seeking the praise of other. I reference several things in this episode. Here is a quick list of the links discussed: <ul> <li>Check out my new Marian-Themed planner, which goes on sale today, right here: https://<a href="http://dosmallthingswithlove.com/planner" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">dosmallthingswithlove.com/planner</a>.</li> <li>Discover new ways to love and respect your husband with a 7 day challenge. Totally free. Sign up here: <a href="https://dosmallthingswithlove.com/husband" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://dosmallthingswithlove.com/husband</a></li> <li>Download your FREE coloring pages for the Virtues of the Rosary: <a href="https://dosmallthingswithlove.com/virtue" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://dosmallthingswithlove.com/virtue</a></li> <li>Grab a copy of the Rosary Booklet: <a href="https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/Rosary-Book" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/Rosary-Book</a></li> <li>I also reference a great Catholic Speaker, Matt Fradd. He has many great videos on youtube and several powerful books on the topic of pornography. I mentioned <a href="https://amzn.to/2J9FKX8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this book</a>that we are reading this month in the <a href="https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/community" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Small Things Community</a>. </li> </ul> I hope that just maybe something I said here is helpful and prompts you to explore your own acceptance of being God's Beloved.  I would also love it if you considered sharing this episode with another Catholic woman that you think might benefit from it. Your sister in the small things, Nancy

J1ST 053: Being Beloved

Today we are continuing on with the Virtues of the Rosary series on the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Today I am tackling the virtue of Humility which is assigned to the 3rd Sorrowful Mystery, the Crowing of Thorns. As just a quick reminder, I did not dream up the idea of assigning a virtue to each mystery of the rosary–I’m just promoting something taught by many great saints included St. Padre Pio, St. John Paul II and St. Mother Teresa.  It my hope that this series gives you lots to think about as you pray your daily rosary. I love mediating on the virtues as I pray–and if you would like a tool to help you reflect a bit more, I encourage you to download and use a set of FREE coloring pages, one for each mystery of the rosary. They are full of powerful quotes from the saints on each of the virtues. Find them here: https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/virtue Humility is the virtue that St. Mother Teresa called the most important virtue and this is because it makes all of the other virtues possible. Ture humility is simply knowing how God is and who you are. In the episode I spent a lot of time talking about witnessing my sister take her final vows a month ago, so if you are curious about that, make sure to listen in. I also shared 15 rules Mother Teresa laid out for pursuing humility. Here they are:  Speak as little about yourself as possible. Keep your nose out of there people's affairs. Avoid curiosity about things that don't concern you. Dont interfere in the affairs of others. Accept small irritations with a good humor. Do not dwell on the faults of others. Accept censures, even if unmerited. Give into the will of others. Accept insults and injuries. Accept contempt, being forgotten and disregard. Be courteous and delicate even when provoked. Do not seek to be loved and admired. Do not protect yourself beyond your own dignity. Give in in discussions, even when you are right. Always choose the more difficult task.  Wow--I have a LOT to work on, do you? Thank you for being here and listening in. Here are a few links mentioned in the episode:  All of these virtues, along with beautiful paintings, reflections and prayers can be found in my Rosary Book. If you are looking for a beautiful academic planner, check out my Marian Themed Planner. It is on sale now. Make sure to download the free coloring pagesthat will help you remember and engage with the virtues of the Rosary.  Your sister in the small things, Nancy

Today we are continuing on with the Virtues of the Rosary series on the Just One Small Thing Podcast. Today I am tackling the virtue of Humility which is assigned to the 3rd Sorrowful Mystery, the Crowing of Thorns. As just a quick reminder, I did not dream up the idea of assigning a virtue to each mystery of the rosary–I’m just promoting something taught by many great saints included St. Padre Pio, St. John Paul II and St. Mother Teresa.  It my hope that this series gives you lots to think about as you pray your daily rosary. I love mediating on the virtues as I pray–and if you would like a tool to help you reflect a bit more, I encourage you to download and use a set of FREE coloring pages, one for each mystery of the rosary. They are full of powerful quotes from the saints on each of the virtues. Find them here: <a href="https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/virtue" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/virtue</a> Humility is the virtue that St. Mother Teresa called the most important virtue and this is because it makes all of the other virtues possible. Ture humility is simply knowing how God is and who you are. In the episode I spent a lot of time talking about witnessing my sister take her final vows a month ago, so if you are curious about that, make sure to listen in. I also shared 15 rules Mother Teresa laid out for pursuing humility. Here they are: <ol> <li>Speak as little about yourself as possible.</li> <li>Keep your nose out of there people's affairs.</li> <li>Avoid curiosity about things that don't concern you.</li> <li>Dont interfere in the affairs of others.</li> <li>Accept small irritations with a good humor.</li> <li>Do not dwell on the faults of others.</li> <li>Accept censures, even if unmerited.</li> <li>Give into the will of others.</li> <li>Accept insults and injuries.</li> <li>Accept contempt, being forgotten and disregard.</li> <li>Be courteous and delicate even when provoked.</li> <li>Do not seek to be loved and admired.</li> <li>Do not protect yourself beyond your own dignity.</li> <li>Give in in discussions, even when you are right.</li> <li>Always choose the more difficult task.</li> </ol> Wow--I have a LOT to work on, do you? Thank you for being here and listening in. Here are a few links mentioned in the episode: <ul> <li>All of these virtues, along with beautiful paintings, reflections and prayers can be found in my <a href="https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/rosary-book" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rosary Book</a>.</li> <li>If you are looking for a beautiful academic planner, check out my <a href="https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/planner" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Marian Themed Planner</a>. It is on sale now.</li> <li>Make sure to download the <a href="https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/virtue" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">free coloring pages</a>that will help you remember and engage with the virtues of the Rosary.</li> </ul> Your sister in the small things, Nancy

J1ST 063: Humility

Welcome back to the Just One Small Thing Podcast, my friends! Today we are going to continue to dig into the virtues assigned to each decade of the Rosary. Last week we talked about Joy for the first Joyful mystery. Today we are going to talk about SERVICE for the second joyful mystery, the Visitation. Once again, you can find all of these virtues as well as scripture, reflections and prayers in my Rosary Booklet, if you would like! I also created a FREE set of 20 coloring pages to help you reflect on the Virtues of the Rosary which you can find right here: https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/virtue On the topic of Service, most of what I talk about in this episode come from 2 great books for Catholic Women. The first is A Mother's Rule of Life. This Catholic Classic is working to change my life right now. I finally forced myself to read it after it gathered dust on my shelf for two years--and I am so glad I did! The basic idea behind A Mother's Rule of Life is that just as those in Religious Communities have a "rule of life", or a mission-based daily schedule to help them live our their vocation, so should mothers. And that having a rule of life is the only way to actually "fit everything in" and do everything well. With a rule of life Prayer is placed in the schedule first, and all other things fall in place around prayer. This way I am no longer trying to cram in a little prayer. It is the hinge on which all other thins swing. With the help of this book I have finally found a way to pray (without stressing about praying) and therefore I am able to serve my children and my family better. The other book that plays a big roll in today's discussion is One Beautiful Dream by Jennifer Fulwiler. This is a brand new book and perfect reading for any mother feeling restless at home. Jennifer reminds us that we are called to a LIFE of service, not just a season. Therefore we simply CAN NOT ignore ourselves (our dreams and our health) so that we can serve our family, because we will always be serving. And, in order to serve them well we NEED to be healthy and happy! Therefore we need to find a way to fulfill our passions and dreams while serving, because we really can do both! She offers so much more in her book, and it is a delightful read and calls for some serious reflection. Finally, this episode discusses our call to be BOTH Mary and Martha--both sitting at the feet of Jesus in adoration AND fulfilling the duties we are called to do. We do this by making sure our spirit is fed first, and then heading out into the world and serving Christ as we find Him in other people. Finally,  here is a coloring pageI created a while ago based on the Gospel passage where Jesus heals Simon Peter's Mother-in-law. It is a wonderful reminder of what we are called to do once Christ has poured His grace out upon us. Our Lady of the Rosary, PRAY FOR US! Your sister in Christ, Nancy

Welcome back to the Just One Small Thing Podcast, my friends! Today we are going to continue to dig into the virtues assigned to each decade of the Rosary. Last week we talked about Joy for the first Joyful mystery. Today we are going to talk about SERVICE for the second joyful mystery, the Visitation. Once again, you can find all of these virtues as well as scripture, reflections and prayers in my <a href="http://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/Rosary-Book" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rosary Booklet</a>, if you would like! I also created a FREE set of 20 coloring pages to help you reflect on the Virtues of the Rosary which you can find right here: <a href="https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/virtue" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/virtue</a> On the topic of Service, most of what I talk about in this episode come from 2 great books for Catholic Women. The first is <a href="https://amzn.to/2IAwv2J" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">A Mother's Rule of Life</a>. This Catholic Classic is working to change my life right now. I finally forced myself to read it after it gathered dust on my shelf for two years--and I am so glad I did! The basic idea behind A Mother's Rule of Life is that just as those in Religious Communities have a "rule of life", or a mission-based daily schedule to help them live our their vocation, so should mothers. And that having a rule of life is the only way to actually "fit everything in" and do everything well. With a rule of life Prayer is placed in the schedule first, and all other things fall in place around prayer. This way I am no longer trying to cram in a little prayer. It is the hinge on which all other thins swing. With the help of this book I have finally found a way to pray (without stressing about praying) and therefore I am able to serve my children and my family better. The other book that plays a big roll in today's discussion is <a href="https://amzn.to/2KJ1eLN" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">One Beautiful Dream by Jennifer Fulwiler</a>. This is a brand new book and perfect reading for any mother feeling restless at home. Jennifer reminds us that we are called to a LIFE of service, not just a season. Therefore we simply CAN NOT ignore ourselves (our dreams and our health) so that we can serve our family, because we will always be serving. And, in order to serve them well we NEED to be healthy and happy! Therefore we need to find a way to fulfill our passions and dreams while serving, because we really can do both! She offers so much more in her book, and it is a delightful read and calls for some serious reflection. Finally, this episode discusses our call to be BOTH Mary and Martha--both sitting at the feet of Jesus in adoration AND fulfilling the duties we are called to do. We do this by making sure our spirit is fed first, and then heading out into the world and serving Christ as we find Him in other people. Finally, <a href="http://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/2016/09/catholic-mom-coloring-servant.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> here is a coloring page</a>I created a while ago based on the Gospel passage where Jesus heals Simon Peter's Mother-in-law. It is a wonderful reminder of what we are called to do once Christ has poured His grace out upon us. Our Lady of the Rosary, PRAY FOR US! Your sister in Christ, Nancy

J1ST 048: The Lifelong Call To Serve

Hello!!  Sterling is back with the Just One Small Thing Podcast, joining the select few who have been guests TWICE (Sterling, your certificate is in the mail ;-) ).  You might know Sterling from her Catholic Minimalism Facebook Group or her  podcast Coffee and Pearls. Or maybe you’ve read some of her  books? Today, the three of us discuss how to make a Catholic Home without breaking the bank as well as how to create an atmosphere of peace and hospitality.   Home decorating, just like the spiritual life, this is NOT a task that can be accomplished in one afternoon, but rather a gradual progress towards the idea you have in mind.  How can you keep costs down while still making your home beautiful? All three of us have some beloved and ‘featured’ decorations in our homes that we found/rescued from second hand stores as well as prints we purchased through Etsy (or Peter’s Square) from a variety of Catholic Artists.   In terms of ambiance, candles and music are what Sterling loves best in her home.  Books read aloud or listened to via Audible or Overdrive are part of daily life in the Jaquith household. Home should be a place where we long to be… somewhere we feel at peace and comfortable and what we listen to can be just as important as what we choose to hang on our walls. Why make our homes Catholic?  Well, first of all, our kids are like sponges and what we choose to surround them with is what will occupy their imaginations.  Also, as someone wrote in a thread in one of Nancy’s Facebook groups, when children are presented with religious images around their home, it acts like a visual anchor and seeing them at church will feel ‘like home’ too.  Having a Catholic Home can also serve as an inspiration, reminder, and challenge for us as well. The words we choose to use, the shows we choose to watch, the music we choose to listen to.. This all affects our souls. Lastly, it’s a chance to evangelize to others.  What is on display in one’s home shows to guests what the person values.   Finally: we also touch on Screens and their ability to pull us in and away from real life.  It's a real addiction and Sterling has created a challenge course to help you cut back on screen time and re-claim your life (see link below)!  I think Nancy and I are both signing up.  I know I need it. We hope you have as much fun listening as we did recording! Your Sisters in the Small Things, Nancy and Katie Here are some Links from today's episode:  www.kickyourdigitalhabit.com www.catholicwomenshine.com  www.sterlingjaquith.com   Facebook Minimalism Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/catholicminimalism   Books: https://www.amazon.com/Sterling-Jaquith/e/B01LXVFNMU?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&amp;qid=1565284977&amp;sr=8-1   Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/coffee-pearls-wisdom-for-catholic-moms/id1052637927 www.overnightprints.com   Sterling's favorite album to play in the house (Free through Amazon prime) https://music.amazon.com/albums/B00CLY2NYY https://www.etsy.com/shop/smallthingsgr8love?ref=shop_sugg https://www.etsy.com/shop/sweetlittleonesshop https://www.instagram.com/rough2rustic/ for rosary hangers

Hello!!  Sterling is back with the Just One Small Thing Podcast, joining the select few who have been guests TWICE (Sterling, your certificate is in the mail ;-) ).  You might know Sterling from her <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/catholicminimalism" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Catholic Minimalism Facebook Group</a> or her <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/coffee-pearls-wisdom-for-catholic-moms/id1052637927" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> podcast</a> Coffee and Pearls. Or maybe you’ve read some of her <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Sterling-Jaquith/e/B01LXVFNMU?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&amp;qid=1565284977&amp;sr=8-1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> books</a>? Today, the three of us discuss how to make a Catholic Home without breaking the bank as well as how to create an atmosphere of peace and hospitality.   Home decorating, just like the spiritual life, this is NOT a task that can be accomplished in one afternoon, but rather a gradual progress towards the idea you have in mind.  How can you keep costs down while still making your home beautiful? All three of us have some beloved and ‘featured’ decorations in our homes that we found/rescued from second hand stores as well as prints we purchased through Etsy (or <a href="https://peterssquare.com/c/art/wall-art/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peter’s Square</a>) from a variety of Catholic Artists.   In terms of ambiance, candles and music are what Sterling loves best in her home.  Books read aloud or listened to via Audible or Overdrive are part of daily life in the Jaquith household. Home should be a place where we long to be… somewhere we feel at peace and comfortable and what we listen to can be just as important as what we choose to hang on our walls. Why make our homes Catholic?  Well, first of all, our kids are like sponges and what we choose to surround them with is what will occupy their imaginations.  Also, as someone wrote in a thread in one of Nancy’s Facebook groups, when children are presented with religious images around their home, it acts like a visual anchor and seeing them at church will feel ‘like home’ too.  Having a Catholic Home can also serve as an inspiration, reminder, and challenge for us as well. The words we choose to use, the shows we choose to watch, the music we choose to listen to.. This all affects our souls. Lastly, it’s a chance to evangelize to others.  What is on display in one’s home shows to guests what the person values.   Finally: we also touch on Screens and their ability to pull us in and away from real life.  It's a real addiction and Sterling has created a challenge course to help you cut back on screen time and re-claim your life (see link below)!  I think Nancy and I are both signing up.  I know I need it. We hope you have as much fun listening as we did recording! Your Sisters in the Small Things, Nancy and Katie Here are some Links from today's episode: <a href="http://www.kickyourdigitalhabit.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> www.kickyourdigitalhabit.com</a><a href="http://www.catholicwomenshine.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> www.catholicwomenshine.com</a> <a href="http://www.sterlingjaquith.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> www.sterlingjaquith.com</a>   Facebook Minimalism Group: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/catholicminimalism" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/groups/catholicminimalism</a>   Books: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Sterling-Jaquith/e/B01LXVFNMU?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&amp;qid=1565284977&amp;sr=8-1" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.amazon.com/Sterling-Jaquith/e/B01LXVFNMU?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&amp;qid=1565284977&amp;sr=8-1</a>   Podcast: <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/coffee-pearls-wisdom-for-catholic-moms/id1052637927" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/coffee-pearls-wisdom-for-catholic-moms/id1052637927</a><a href="http://www.overnightprints.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> www.overnightprints.com</a>   Sterling's favorite album to play in the house (Free through Amazon prime) <a href="https://music.amazon.com/albums/B00CLY2NYY" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://music.amazon.com/albums/B00CLY2NYY</a><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/smallthingsgr8love?ref=shop_sugg" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> https://www.etsy.com/shop/smallthingsgr8love?ref=shop_sugg</a><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/sweetlittleonesshop" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> https://www.etsy.com/shop/sweetlittleonesshop</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/rough2rustic/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> https://www.instagram.com/rough2rustic/</a> for rosary hangers

J1ST 086: Creating a Catholic Home with Sterling Jaquith

Hey there my friends! Welcome back to our series on the virtues of the Rosary. This week we are discussing the 4th Joyful Mystery, the Presentation.  The virtue for this mystery is Consecration. I really enjoyed researching and recording this episode because of all the connections I found with sacraments. The connection between the Presentation and Baptism is clear, but there is always a really cool link to marriage and Holy Orders as well. As those Baptized we are called to renew our baptismal promises and strive to keep our souls as clean as they were on the day of our baptism. This should also be our unceasing prayer for our children that we have had baptized.  In marriage we are consecrated to each other and always, in a real way, experience a true "in-dwelling" that is a sign to the world of the way God loves us. In this episode we first discuss Why We Need to be Consecrated.  Simply, consecration is opening ourselves us to becoming a place of dwelling for our Lord. We invited Him to dwell in us, and as a result we are able to dwell in Him.  Full consecration requires prayer, worship, fasting, unity, reconciliation, repentance, forgiveness, and healing from our past wounds.  God alone can do these things, but we need to draw near to Him to experience them. Consecration is also a call to set ourselves apart for God, or for our spouse in marriage. We choose to be detached from this world and instead live only for God.   I really hope that this allows you to deepen your contemplation of the 4th Joyful Mystery of the Rosary! Links mentioned in this episode:  You can find all of these virtues as well as scripture, reflections and mediations in my little Rosary Book. Download and print these 20 FREE coloring pagesdepicting and helping you reflect on the virtues of the Rosary.  Thank you, as always, for being here! Your sister in the small things, Nancy

Hey there my friends! Welcome back to our series on the virtues of the Rosary. This week we are discussing the 4th Joyful Mystery, the Presentation.  The virtue for this mystery is Consecration. I really enjoyed researching and recording this episode because of all the connections I found with sacraments. The connection between the Presentation and Baptism is clear, but there is always a really cool link to marriage and Holy Orders as well. As those Baptized we are called to renew our baptismal promises and strive to keep our souls as clean as they were on the day of our baptism. This should also be our unceasing prayer for our children that we have had baptized.  In marriage we are consecrated to each other and always, in a real way, experience a true "in-dwelling" that is a sign to the world of the way God loves us. In this episode we first discuss Why We Need to be Consecrated.  Simply, consecration is opening ourselves us to becoming a place of dwelling for our Lord. We invited Him to dwell in us, and as a result we are able to dwell in Him.  Full consecration requires prayer, worship, fasting, unity, reconciliation, repentance, forgiveness, and healing from our past wounds.  God alone can do these things, but we need to draw near to Him to experience them. Consecration is also a call to set ourselves apart for God, or for our spouse in marriage. We choose to be detached from this world and instead live only for God. I really hope that this allows you to deepen your contemplation of the 4th Joyful Mystery of the Rosary! Links mentioned in this episode: <ul> <li>You can find all of these virtues as well as scripture, reflections and mediations in my little <a href="https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/Rosary-Book" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rosary Book</a>.</li> <li>Download and print these <a href="https://www.dosmallthingswithlove.com/virtue" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">20 FREE coloring pages</a>depicting and helping you reflect on the virtues of the Rosary.</li> </ul> Thank you, as always, for being here! Your sister in the small things, Nancy

J1ST 050: Consecration

Hey there! The Just One Small Thing Podcast is all new TWO WEEKS IN A ROW! I am so excited and hopeful that we can keep this up!  This week I am sharing 10 things that I've learned about prayer over the last two years. Many of the concepts are ones that I have touched on in previous podcasts, but they are all so important! Here is a quick rundown of the list:  Family Prayer is not enough. I need to have private, personal time for prayer. Starting the morning with prayer, and reflection on scripture, is a game changer. The little thoughts I have to pray, is God knocking at the door--and I need to say YES to prayer when He knocks. Satan tries (very hard) to keep me from prayer by reminding me of all the "good" things I need to do instead of praying. A daily Rosary will change your life. It has changed mine! Prayer is so much simpler than I thought! God is right here, in the NOW! Phone use kills prayer (at least it does for me!) It is so powerful to connect prayer to scripture. (you can download your Lectio Divina bookmark right here: https://catholicsprouts.com/lectio-divina-bookmark/) IT ALL COMES BACK TO PRAYER!  #10 is the most important one on the list. As I reflect on the resources I can make for people, or what I can teach and challenge children to do through the Catholic Sprouts Podcast, I have realized that it ALL COMES BACK TO PRAYER! Our good deeds need to be done after, and in an attitude of, prayer. Our relationships need to be filled with prayer. Prayer is everything!!! For this reason, I am excited to announce that I have created a PRAYER COURSE FOR ADULTS. The course will teach you how to pray, and open up to you the wonders of prayer. I have been working on it for many months and I am excited to start enrolling students after Easter. To learn more about the course, make sure to sign up for my email list! They hear about things first (and usually get the best deals). SIGN UP HERE. When you join the Catholic Sprouts community, you not only will be part of a thriving community of over 11,000 Catholic Parents, but you also will get instant access to the Catholic Family Digital Resource Library.  Simply head here to sign up!  https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-family-resource-library-signup/ Thanks for being here! Your sister in the small things, Nancy

Hey there! The Just One Small Thing Podcast is all new TWO WEEKS IN A ROW! I am so excited and hopeful that we can keep this up!  This week I am sharing 10 things that I've learned about prayer over the last two years. Many of the concepts are ones that I have touched on in previous podcasts, but they are all so important! Here is a quick rundown of the list: <ol> <li>Family Prayer is not enough. I need to have private, personal time for prayer.</li> <li>Starting the morning with prayer, and reflection on scripture, is a game changer.</li> <li>The little thoughts I have to pray, is God knocking at the door--and I need to say YES to prayer when He knocks.</li> <li>Satan tries (very hard) to keep me from prayer by reminding me of all the "good" things I need to do instead of praying.</li> <li>A daily Rosary will change your life. It has changed mine!</li> <li>Prayer is so much simpler than I thought!</li> <li>God is right here, in the NOW!</li> <li>Phone use kills prayer (at least it does for me!)</li> <li>It is so powerful to connect prayer to scripture. (you can download your Lectio Divina bookmark right here: <a href="https://catholicsprouts.com/lectio-divina-bookmark/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://catholicsprouts.com/lectio-divina-bookmark/</a>)</li> <li>IT ALL COMES BACK TO PRAYER!</li> </ol> #10 is the most important one on the list. As I reflect on the resources I can make for people, or what I can teach and challenge children to do through the Catholic Sprouts Podcast, I have realized that it ALL COMES BACK TO PRAYER! Our good deeds need to be done after, and in an attitude of, prayer. Our relationships need to be filled with prayer. Prayer is everything!!! For this reason, I am excited to announce that I have created a PRAYER COURSE FOR ADULTS. The course will teach you how to pray, and open up to you the wonders of prayer. I have been working on it for many months and I am excited to start enrolling students after Easter. To learn more about the course, make sure to sign up for my email list! They hear about things first (and usually get the best deals). <a href="https://catholicsprouts.com/Sing-Up" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SIGN UP HERE</a>. When you join the Catholic Sprouts community, you not only will be part of a thriving community of over 11,000 Catholic Parents, but you also will get instant access to the Catholic Family Digital Resource Library.  Simply head here to sign up! <a href="https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-family-resource-library-signup/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-family-resource-library-signup/</a> Thanks for being here! Your sister in the small things, Nancy

J1ST 075: 10 Things I've Learned About Prayer

Hey there friends. Today we are tackling the Vice that I have been dreading since the beginning: Gluttony. For some reason the idea that food can lead to sin is just a little bit hard for me. It is hard for me to understand, and hard for me to look straight in the face. I LOVE FOOD, and, like many of you I would guess, I have lots of food issues, coming from a variety of different source.  I have a huge sweet tooth that is a constant struggle for me.  I have been pregnant or nursing or both for most of the last 8 years, and that has created all sorts of weird eating habits, most of them bad and addicting. And finally, I have been "chunky" my whole life. My family was always very kind, and I had a couple of sisters that were also chunky, so I don't really have a complex about this, but it's still left me with a few issues. But none of these issues are really the topic of today's episode on Gluttony. Instead, the fact that we all obsess about our food issues is more on point. Fulton Sheen, who once again provides all of the wisdom for this episode in his incredible book, Victory Over Vice, makes the startling statement that once people forget out their souls, they begin to obsess about their bodies. Maybe that means overeating. Maybe that means just plain obsessing over what they are eating. Once we forget our souls be also start to DIET and not FAST. Dieting is done for the body, while fasting is done for the spirit. Ugh, that's hard to hear. All of the lessons on Gluttony come from Christ's words on the cross, "I thirst." Fulton Sheen agrees with Mother Teresa in that Christ is thirsting for our love. He encourages us to mortify our body through fasting so that we might feel how our soul longs for Christ--how we indeed also thirst for him.  Mortification will also give us the ability to control the urges of our body, and no longer be mastered by the flesh. The topic of food and gluttony is such a big, touchy one, and I'd love to hear you chime in on all of this once you listen to the podcast. Do you agree? Do you have anything to add? Up next week is the topic of Sloth. Another topic hard (and so important) for us American to hear. I'll see you then! Your sister in Christ, Nancy

Hey there friends. Today we are tackling the Vice that I have been dreading since the beginning: Gluttony. For some reason the idea that food can lead to sin is just a little bit hard for me. It is hard for me to understand, and hard for me to look straight in the face. I LOVE FOOD, and, like many of you I would guess, I have lots of food issues, coming from a variety of different source.  I have a huge sweet tooth that is a constant struggle for me.  I have been pregnant or nursing or both for most of the last 8 years, and that has created all sorts of weird eating habits, most of them bad and addicting. And finally, I have been "chunky" my whole life. My family was always very kind, and I had a couple of sisters that were also chunky, so I don't really have a complex about this, but it's still left me with a few issues. But none of these issues are really the topic of today's episode on Gluttony. Instead, the fact that we all obsess about our food issues is more on point. Fulton Sheen, who once again provides all of the wisdom for this episode in his incredible book, <a href="http://amzn.to/2D5NQkC" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Victory Over Vice</a>, makes the startling statement that once people forget out their souls, they begin to obsess about their bodies. Maybe that means overeating. Maybe that means just plain obsessing over what they are eating. Once we forget our souls be also start to DIET and not FAST. Dieting is done for the body, while fasting is done for the spirit. Ugh, that's hard to hear. All of the lessons on Gluttony come from Christ's words on the cross, "I thirst." Fulton Sheen agrees with Mother Teresa in that Christ is thirsting for our love. He encourages us to mortify our body through fasting so that we might feel how our soul longs for Christ--how we indeed also thirst for him.  Mortification will also give us the ability to control the urges of our body, and no longer be mastered by the flesh. The topic of food and gluttony is such a big, touchy one, and I'd love to hear you chime in on all of this once you listen to the podcast. Do you agree? Do you have anything to add? Up next week is the topic of Sloth. Another topic hard (and so important) for us American to hear. I'll see you then! Your sister in Christ, Nancy

J1ST 035: Gluttony

Haley Stewart

Hey there! Welcome back to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. One of my good friends is joining us this week, the amazing Haley Stewart. Haley is a mom, wife, Catholic writer and podcaster. You likely know her from her blog, Carrots for Michaelmas or her podcast Fountains of Carrots.  Haley is a remarkable, engaging, faith-filled lady, and I know you are going to love this episode with her. Haley is joining us on the podcast to talk about her new book, The Grace of Enough: Pursuing Less and Living More in a Throwaway Culture. The Grace of Enough chronicles Haley and her family's decision to radically change their lives. Tired of the rat-race of typical urban life, Haley and her family decided to sell their house, quit their jobs and move their family half way across the country for a year of simple living on a farm. Based on this experience and their Catholic Faith, after leaving the farm, the Stewarts created a new life for themselves that focuses on what is simple and true and beautiful. Reading this book will offer an important and powerful challenge for all families wondering if "this is it?". Because I just can't help myself, Haley and I talk about just one important point she make in this book (there are many!). We discuss why it is so important that we and our children experience farm life and animals. The Grace of Enough hits on MANY topics important to the life of a catholic parent. Here are just a few of them:  The Freedom of Having Less Love of the Land True Beauty Creating a School of Love in our Homes Hospitality Creating Community The Generous Love of NFP Teaching Our Children to Love Generously Finding Hope in a Dark Work  Because this book covers so many great topics, I thought this book would be really fun to discuss in a bookclub--and YOU'RE INVITED to join this bookclub! It will be a live bookclub hosted in a private facebook group (if you are a Catholic Lady, click here to be added). The Bookclub will be held on Oct 25th at 8pm Central. And Haley will be there! So, get the book (right here), read as much as you can, and join us for a fun and important conversation! See you there! Thank you for all of your love and support! Your sister in the small things, Nancy

Hey there! Welcome back to the Just One Small Thing Podcast. One of my good friends is joining us this week, the amazing Haley Stewart. Haley is a mom, wife, Catholic writer and podcaster. You likely know her from her blog, <a href="https://www.carrotsformichaelmas.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Carrots for Michaelmas</a> or her podcast <a href="http://fountainsofcarrots.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Fountains of Carrots</a>.  Haley is a remarkable, engaging, faith-filled lady, and I know you are going to love this episode with her. Haley is joining us on the podcast to talk about her new book, <a href="https://amzn.to/2ICjzKA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Grace of Enough: Pursuing Less and Living More in a Throwaway Culture</a>. The Grace of Enough chronicles Haley and her family's decision to radically change their lives. Tired of the rat-race of typical urban life, Haley and her family decided to sell their house, quit their jobs and move their family half way across the country for a year of simple living on a farm. Based on this experience and their Catholic Faith, after leaving the farm, the Stewarts created a new life for themselves that focuses on what is simple and true and beautiful. Reading this book will offer an important and powerful challenge for all families wondering if "this is it?". Because I just can't help myself, Haley and I talk about just one important point she make in this book (there are many!). We discuss why it is so important that we and our children experience farm life and animals. The Grace of Enough hits on MANY topics important to the life of a catholic parent. Here are just a few of them: <ul> <li>The Freedom of Having Less</li> <li>Love of the Land</li> <li>True Beauty</li> <li>Creating a School of Love in our Homes</li> <li>Hospitality</li> <li>Creating Community</li> <li>The Generous Love of NFP</li> <li>Teaching Our Children to Love Generously</li> <li>Finding Hope in a Dark Work</li> </ul> Because this book covers so many great topics, I thought this book would be really fun to discuss in a bookclub--and YOU'RE INVITED to join this bookclub! It will be a live bookclub hosted in a private facebook group (if you are a Catholic Lady, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1695487650680941/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">click here</a> to be added). The Bookclub will be held on Oct 25th at 8pm Central. And Haley will be there! So, get the book (<a href="https://amzn.to/2pEvUFr" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">right here</a>), read as much as you can, and join us for a fun and important conversation! See you there! Thank you for all of your love and support! Your sister in the small things, Nancy

J1ST 066: The Grace of Enough with Haley Stewart

Welcome back to another week of the Just One Small Thing Podcast!!   Continuing on our 'Fall Triduum' theme, we're discussing All Soul's Day today.  Although the last day of this great Triduum of our Faith, it seems to be the 'middle child' in some ways... It's not an eve.  It's not a Holy Day of Obligation. It's also kind of sad.  We all have people we have known and loved and they've passed on and we're not exactly sure where they are... Did they go straight to Heaven? Are they still in purgatory? How exactly are we supposed to celebrate it? First of all, it's really truly beautiful that our Church gives us a feast day expressly to remember our beloved dead.  Many (most?) of us will spend some time in purgatory after we die and the only way we can get to Heaven is the prayers of those on Earth or in Heaven. There are actually indulgences attached to praying for the dead during the month of November!  It's also comforting to have this time to remember those we've lost personally.  That's exactly what we do in today's episode... Nancy and I both share a bit about our beloved dead and discuss ways to remember and honor them on All Souls' Day and throughout the month of November. Some ideas are:    Visit, clean, and decorate their graves (check out this beautiful tradition in Poland!) Speak their names Ask them to pray with you Display their pictures/names Pray the St. Gertrude Prayer (see below)    We also discuss how we talk about death with our kids. As uncomfortable and sad it might be, death is a reality our children need to be aware of.  We'd love to pray for your beloved dead too!  Please comment here or email us so we can add them to our list.  Your sisters in the small things, Nancy and Katie   The St. Gertrude Prayer (pious tradition is that 1,000 souls are released from purgatory upon each recitation... more about that  here): Eternal Father, I offer You the most Precious Blood of Your Divine Son, Jesus, in union with the Masses said throughout the world today, for all the Holy Souls in Purgatory, for all sinners everywhere, for sinners in the universal Church, those in my own home and within my family. Amen.

Welcome back to another week of the Just One Small Thing Podcast!! Continuing on our 'Fall Triduum' theme, we're discussing All Soul's Day today.  Although the last day of this great Triduum of our Faith, it seems to be the 'middle child' in some ways... It's not an eve.  It's not a Holy Day of Obligation. It's also kind of sad.  We all have people we have known and loved and they've passed on and we're not exactly sure where they are... Did they go straight to Heaven? Are they still in purgatory? How exactly are we supposed to celebrate it? First of all, it's really truly beautiful that our Church gives us a feast day expressly to remember our beloved dead.  Many (most?) of us will spend some time in purgatory after we die and the only way we can get to Heaven is the prayers of those on Earth or in Heaven. There are actually indulgences attached to praying for the dead during the month of November!  It's also comforting to have this time to remember those we've lost personally.  That's exactly what we do in today's episode... Nancy and I both share a bit about our beloved dead and discuss ways to remember and honor them on All Souls' Day and throughout the month of November. Some ideas are: <ul> <li> <ol> <li>Visit, clean, and decorate their graves (check out this beautiful tradition in <a href="https://www.xperiencepoland.com/all-saints-day-poland/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Poland</a>!)</li> <li>Speak their names</li> <li>Ask them to pray with you</li> <li>Display their pictures/names</li> <li>Pray the St. Gertrude Prayer (see below)</li> </ol> </li> </ul> We also discuss how we talk about death with our kids. As uncomfortable and sad it might be, death is a reality our children need to be aware of.  We'd love to pray for your beloved dead too!  Please comment here or email us so we can add them to our list.  Your sisters in the small things, Nancy and Katie The St. Gertrude Prayer (pious tradition is that 1,000 souls are released from purgatory upon each recitation... more about that <a href="https://aleteia.org/2018/10/30/pray-st-gertrude-the-greats-powerful-prayer-for-the-holy-souls-in-purgatory/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> here</a>): Eternal Father, I offer You the most Precious Blood of Your Divine Son, Jesus, in union with the Masses said throughout the world today, for all the Holy Souls in Purgatory, for all sinners everywhere, for sinners in the universal Church, those in my own home and within my family. Amen.

J1ST 093: All Soul's Day

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