I have to admit that when the opportunity to preview THEN CAME YOU was offered, I accepted the film for one reason: it is set in Scotland and was filmed on location in the Highlands. With my son Adam playing in the Scottish trio The Fire, I've become a fan of not only Scottish music, but of the … [Read more...] about Then Came You
Blog
Companions for the Journey: Update from the Ball Chair for 09/14/20
When I penned I Am God's Storyteller in 2019, I learned a big lesson about creating work for children that truly reinforced the message of the book. God has given each of us unique and beautiful gifts with which to share the story of his love for us. My creative partner for that book was Eric … [Read more...] about Companions for the Journey: Update from the Ball Chair for 09/14/20
09/11/01: We Remember
Today, I went searching in my writings for memories of September 11, 2001. For our little family, living in Fresno, California at the time, the tragedy was far removed. It happened before my involvement with blogging and social media usage, so I can't easily access words I would have written that … [Read more...] about 09/11/01: We Remember
It’s a Book: Update from the Ball Chair for 09/10/20
I should have learned this lesson years ago: be careful when you decide to write a book about living your faith. God will expect you to "walk your talk". My first experience with this came with the writing of my very first book, The Handbook for Catholic Moms: Nurturing Your Heart, Mind, Body and … [Read more...] about It’s a Book: Update from the Ball Chair for 09/10/20
Miracles: Update from the Ball Chair for 09/02/20
My beloved "ball chair" is nowhere in sight for this edition of my semi-regular update. In mid-August, Greg and I planned a quick two-day getaway to take advantage of an open spot on his calendar. We arrived at our destination, checked in, and set out on a long walk. We enjoyed a quiet dinner in our … [Read more...] about Miracles: Update from the Ball Chair for 09/02/20
OSV Innovation Challenge – A Conversation with Jason Shanks
Innovativation? Creation? Imagination? Perhaps these aren't the first words that you think of when you ponder the Catholic Church. After all, our roots span millennia. Tradition is a hallmark of our teaching. But just as Jesus brought new ways to share the Good News of his father's love for … [Read more...] about OSV Innovation Challenge – A Conversation with Jason Shanks
Boys State
Documentary is currently my favorite film genre because it lends itself so neatly to the art of storytelling. But one falls into error when believing that simply because it is a documentary, a film will tell absolutely truths. Such seems to be the case with Boys State, an A24 production launching … [Read more...] about Boys State
I’m a Saint in the Making: Book Trailer Premiere!
Today, I'm delighted to invite you to a fancy red carpet premiere! Go ahead and don your fancy dress or suit. Touch up your lipstick and get your best selfie smile worked out. Here's a virtual box of popcorn and some Red Vines (my theater treat of choice!) But seriously, I'm super psyched to give … [Read more...] about I’m a Saint in the Making: Book Trailer Premiere!
Wanderlight: A Pilgrim’s Adventure
While placing your child in front of a video game in the age of distance learning might seem the least logical choice you'll make this school year, a new catechetical resource from Loyola Press may change your mind. Today, I'm happy to share my recent conversation with Joellyn Cicciarelli, … [Read more...] about Wanderlight: A Pilgrim’s Adventure
The Grizzlies
Now open in select theaters nationwide, The Grizzlies is an intense but enjoyable hero's journey, told in epic fashion through the prism of a real-world community's sports evolution. But don't be mistaken. While the film may read like so many other classic athletic tales, there is far more at play … [Read more...] about The Grizzlies
Confinement
With many of us sheltering in place, "Zoom" has become a universally recognized way of life. So I was naturally intrigued when filmmaker Nicole Absinio approached me about a new project involving technology and terror. Confinement tells the tale of what happens to one dysfunctional family when their … [Read more...] about Confinement
Global Prayer Challenge for Mothers
When faced with challenges and situations whose solutions are beyond our control, sometimes, the only thing we can do is pray. We may think of this with discouragement, wondering if our offerings to God can truly make any difference. I was encouraged to learn recently about the Global Prayer … [Read more...] about Global Prayer Challenge for Mothers
One Day at a Time: Update from the Ball Chair for 07/13/20
I think I touched a nerve last week with my "pity party" admission. Several of you took the time to reach out to me personally and offer hopeful support and prayers. Please know that I'm incredibly grateful. I often hesitate to be anything but optimistic along this "mission" of mine because truly my … [Read more...] about One Day at a Time: Update from the Ball Chair for 07/13/20
Greyhound
When I found out that Greyhound would be opening this weekend on Apple TV+, I was excited. The film combines two of my favorite things: Tom Hanks and source material from C. S. Forester. Since I'm the mother of two sons who were entranced with any content related to history, our family went through … [Read more...] about Greyhound
Mighty Oak
If you've run across the trailer for Mighty Oak and considered it as a possible summer screen for your kids who loved School of Rock, think twice. Despite the charisma and mad guitar skills of its pint-sized protagonist, this really isn't a film for children. This being said, Mighty Oak musters … [Read more...] about Mighty Oak
Great Events: Great for Family and Friends
The past few months of home confinement due to the COVID-19 pandemic have reacquainted many of us with the world of family entertainment. One can only "Netflix and chill" for so long before one goes crazy! Many of us have rediscovered the fun of puzzles, board games, and other ways to combine … [Read more...] about Great Events: Great for Family and Friends
