Recently in Lent Category

Last year, I gave up sweets and the Internet during Lent (except for the Sunday reprieve).  This year, I had myself pretty well convinced that I was not going to be able to do the latter.  Give up the Internet? Can't do it - its my primary resource for homeschooling information and ideas for living out the liturgical year.  I need it too much - its my main connection to family and friends.   I'll miss too much- its my only link to news and weather.

However, as we move closer to Lent, I can feel my resolve getting stronger.  I think I can do it, I whispered last night.  "I can...I know I can," I declared today. 

OK, I learned from my Advent/ Christmas ideas post that it would be better to start a draft of ideas right away rather than bookmarking them (or just trying to remember sites) and trying to find them all later!

Jesus tree:

This is a great idea as the continuation of the Jesse tree with readings and corresponding "ornaments."  You can purchase a kit here.  I haven't decided if I will purchase the kit or try to make my own.  I'm probably more likely to make them if I buy the kit, but $21 plus shipping seems so steep for felt and instructions!  (I may just print the pictures and cut them out as a backup this year, since I barely even have time to brush my teeth!)


Lenten Mantle:

Here's Dawn's.

I love the idea of "burying the Alleluia" by painting wooden letters gold and putting them in a box until Easter.

Elizabeth's.

Lenten calendar:

Here's Jessica's.  (She's amazing!)

I especially like the idea about picking an object to count and putting that many pennies in the rice bowl.  The boys would love it!!  Some object ideas - radiators, cars, doorknobs, baskets...

I also like the idea of donating canned goods each day from the pantry. (Note to self: Stock it ahead of time!)

Here's Dawn's.

Charlotte's.

Theresa's.




40 Trash Bag Challenge:

OK, Kevin actually agreed to do this with me!  One of our favorite quotes when we first got married was "The less you have, the less you have to take care of." (This does not apply to kids!! We love having more of them to take care of!)

Here's others who have done it and left valuable feedback:
Darcee
Jennifer

I'd like to have the "cut list" planned out:
1. Piano music
2. Coat closet
3. Children's books
4. Kev's and my books
5. Magazines
6. Food items
7. Cookbooks
8. My closet
9. Kev's closet
10. My dresser
11. Kev's dresser
12. Shoes
13. Holiday decorations
14. Maternity clothes
15. Craft cabinet
16. Stuffed animals
17. Bath toys
18. Sheetrock
19. Computer stuff
20. Diapers
21. Co-sleeper and Bassinet
22. VCR, TV/VCR, and VHS tapes

That's all we've come up with so far. I'm sure we'll think of more.


Candle Day: 

We did this with the boys last year and they loved it.  In trying to think of something we could sacrifice as a family that wouldn't be too difficult for the kids to participate, I came up with the idea of giving up electric lighting every Saturday during Lent.  We'll definitely be doing it again!


Stations of the Cross:

Using candles

Easter Vigil:

This is the Mass we'll be attending. I know the readings will be really long, but the boys will really enjoy the fire, the candles, and the baptisms.

Miscellaneous:

Lots of ideas and links here.