Ash Wednesday 2013

Bella (3) and Max (6)

 The 2 big kids and I went to Ash Wednesday service. They had to really offer up the 20 minutes we spent in church. After we received our ashes, we sat in the pew and said 3 "Hail Mary"s together.  I asked them each to think about what they were going to offer up for Lent this year in order to grow closer to Jesus. Bella has offered up    sweets. Pretty typical 3 year old sacrifice in my opinion. Max thought for a minute, and said " I am going to offer up this for Jesus". I was glad he understood about offering up our pains for Jesus, but explained, further, that we had to either give up something or commit to doing something extra to show Jesus we love him. He thought again and exclaimed (in CHURCH) "Mom, I am going to say YES to you the first time"

 

 I admitted my shock to Max. I offered to let him change. I feel badly about this now. I should NOT have discouraged him, but in all honesty...he will struggle. I think it is an EXCELLENT choice for him. Blaise also received his first ashes.  He looks so sweet. I see his daddy in him now. At 2 months old, he is an ever-increasing spitting image of Mike. I love it! He looks so different from all the others, that I am so pleased he is starting to resemble Mike more each day!

Blaise (2 months)

I am looking forward to the things I am planning to offer up. I have given up dairy and Facebook  (Ha!)  for Lent. (super hard) I have also committed to 3 rosaries a day, and extra mother's prayer, and Adoration once a week.  I also plan to stick with my exercise routine, and eating better in general, including not eating dairy! Wish me luck!