As a mother, some of my favorite family traditions and memories revolve around snuggling under the covers with my boys and sharing a beautiful book. This year, I'm delighted to share two recent releases from Sophia Institute Press that fall into my "instant classic" library of children's … [Read more...] about Two New Books That Look Like Christmas Classics
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Hillbilly Elegy
While I don't remember the exact year of my younger sister's graduation from a well-known Southern university, I do remember some of the opening words of the commencement speaker, author John Grisham: "The book is always better than the movie." When it comes to Netflix's soon to be released … [Read more...] about Hillbilly Elegy
Does Suffering Make Me Better or Bitter?
Most Sundays, I have the great blessing of "attending Mass" alongside my family in Chicago via the wonders of technology. Greg and I typically attend Saturday evening Mass outdoors at our parish, but these Sunday mornings with my Dad, my sister, and her family have become a precious part of my … [Read more...] about Does Suffering Make Me Better or Bitter?
Grab “I Am God’s Storyteller” for Only $6
I'm happy to share that my children's book "I Am God's Storyteller" is currently on sale for only $6 per book through my publisher, Paraclete Press. Typically $17.99, this hardcover book is beautifully illustrated by my creative partner Eric Carlson. I believe it would make a lovely gift for any … [Read more...] about Grab “I Am God’s Storyteller” for Only $6
Ready for Advent? Try “O Radiant Dawn”
Somehow, we are just days away from the beginning of a new liturgical year! On Sunday, November 29, we celebrate the start of Advent. For many of us who have struggled mightily with challenges in 2020, this season of light and hope hangs before us like a beacon. We desire change not only in dealing … [Read more...] about Ready for Advent? Try “O Radiant Dawn”
Voices of Fire
Debuting November 20 on Netflix, Voices of Fire is a feel-good celebration of musical giftedness and the power of combined talent. Think "American Idol goes to Church", but without the snarky British judge and the airbrushed teenage talent. After having screened the first of the six episode … [Read more...] about Voices of Fire
Syllabus: In Conversation with William Germano and Kit Nicholls
Congratulations on the publication of Syllabus: The Remarkable, Unremarkable Document That Changes Everything Please briefly introduce yourselves to our readers and let us know how you came to work together on this project. Kit Nicholls: At this point, after writing this book together, it’s odd … [Read more...] about Syllabus: In Conversation with William Germano and Kit Nicholls
Bless Us, O Lord: 3 Minutes with Robert M. Hamma
Today, I continue my ongoing series of conversations with published authors as we’re joined by Robert M. Hamma, author of the newly released book Bless Us, O Lord: A Family Treasury of Mealtime Prayers. LMH Bob, congratulations on the publication of Bless Us, O Lord. Would you please briefly … [Read more...] about Bless Us, O Lord: 3 Minutes with Robert M. Hamma
Jingle Jangle
There's a simple yet magical line in the early moments of Netflix's incredible new original holiday film that offers a prescient glimpse into the power of what is about to unfold before us. "I think it's time for a new story." These words, offered with spirit by Phylicia Rashad as she … [Read more...] about Jingle Jangle
The Big Hustle: 3 Minutes with Jim Wahlberg
Today, I continue my ongoing series of conversations with published authors as we’re joined by Jim Wahlberg, author of the newly released book The Big Hustle: A Boston Street Kid's Story of Addiction and Redemption. LMH Jim, congratulations on the release of The Big Hustle: A Boston Street Kid's … [Read more...] about The Big Hustle: 3 Minutes with Jim Wahlberg
Prompt Me to Pray: 3 Minutes with Monica McConkey
Today, I continue my ongoing series of conversations with published authors as we're joined by Monica McConkey, author of the newly released book Prompt Me to Pray: A Practical Plan for More Consistent Prayer from the Heart. LMH Monica, congratulations on the publication of Prompt Me to Pray. … [Read more...] about Prompt Me to Pray: 3 Minutes with Monica McConkey
2 Hearts
If the thought of another sentimental medical drama feels too close to home during this time of the global pandemic, think of the new film 2 HEARTS instead as a tale of generosity, lives well lived, and the power of true love. Now open in theaters nationwide, 2 HEARTS is loosely based on the true … [Read more...] about 2 Hearts
Love Her Well: 3 Minutes with Kari Kampakis
Today, I continue my ongoing series of conversations with published authors as we're joined by Kari Kampakis, author of the newly released book Love Her Well: 10 Ways to Find Joy and Connection with Your Teenage Daughter. LMH Kari, congratulations on the publication of Love Her Well: 10 Ways to … [Read more...] about Love Her Well: 3 Minutes with Kari Kampakis
City So Real
When trying to sum up my emotions after having screened the first episode in the new National Geographic documentary film series CITY SO REAL, one word comes to mind: unfiltered. In many ways, the city of Chicago has become a second home for me. I've come to love its many diverse neighborhoods, … [Read more...] about City So Real
In the Making: Update from the Ball Chair for 10/15/20
I log into my little blog world and note that in the blink of an eye, a whole month has gone by since the last time that I posted one of these updates. How could that be? Pandemic life is complex: days seem both endlessly long and also too short to accomplish all that's on my plate. Honestly, the … [Read more...] about In the Making: Update from the Ball Chair for 10/15/20
Can You “Plan a Happy Life”?
I'll admit it: I'm hopelessly devoted to planners. After several years of fiddling with my system, I've concocted a melange of both digital and paper tools that serves me well at this stage in my life. But I also love taking a look at new things and considering how advances in planning might help me … [Read more...] about Can You “Plan a Happy Life”?
