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SAVE THE DATE! The @sjnaustin Women's Retreat will be held on Saturday, February 7th and registration opens next week on November 3rd. I will be the emcee for the day, Jenna Scott will be the keynote speaker, and Mary Coleman will be the adoration speaker.

Follow the link to learn more and be ready to register: www.sjnaustin.org/womens-retreat

@thebetterpartpod
@maryc3456_

SAVE THE DATE! The @sjnaustin Women's Retreat will be held on Saturday, February 7th and registration opens next week on November 3rd. I will be the emcee for the day, Jenna Scott will be the keynote speaker, and Mary Coleman will be the adoration speaker.

Follow the link to learn more and be ready to register: www.sjnaustin.org/womens-retreat

@thebetterpartpod
@maryc3456_

Did you receive my newsletter last week? If you didn't sign up in time and would like the full reflection on doubt, send me a DM and I will send it your way!

Did you receive my newsletter last week? If you didn't sign up in time and would like the full reflection on doubt, send me a DM and I will send it your way!

I have so much more to say on the topic of doubt, so don't forget to sign up for my newsletter that goes out in a few days, the full reflection will be sent straight to your inbox! Sign up here: https://tinyurl.com/calmstormform

But for now, here are a few thoughts on these three common misconceptions about doubt.

1) If you need to see, feel, or understand anything, you don’t really have faith.
We can’t have faith in something we don’t understand. Seeing or feeling God’s presence in our hearts, minds, and lives allows us to know who we are putting our faith in.

2) Any doubts indicate a failure to believe and are proof of a lack of faith
When Thomas doubted, he was brutally honest about it. He didn’t believe the apostles’ stories that Jesus was alive again – they were still locked away, fearing for their lives. Nothing indicated that anything had changed. Of course he doubted them. Who wouldn’t? His doubts opened the door for Jesus to enter in the most powerful way.

3) Questions are to be avoided and suppressed at all costs
This is one assumption that really bothers me whenever I see it in faith formation classes or religious discussions. All questions are fair game, and there are no stupid questions if they come from a place of honest curiosity or struggle.

I have so much more to say on the topic of doubt, so don't forget to sign up for my newsletter that goes out in a few days, the full reflection will be sent straight to your inbox! Sign up here: https://tinyurl.com/calmstormform

But for now, here are a few thoughts on these three common misconceptions about doubt.

1) If you need to see, feel, or understand anything, you don’t really have faith.
We can’t have faith in something we don’t understand. Seeing or feeling God’s presence in our hearts, minds, and lives allows us to know who we are putting our faith in.

2) Any doubts indicate a failure to believe and are proof of a lack of faith
When Thomas doubted, he was brutally honest about it. He didn’t believe the apostles’ stories that Jesus was alive again – they were still locked away, fearing for their lives. Nothing indicated that anything had changed. Of course he doubted them. Who wouldn’t? His doubts opened the door for Jesus to enter in the most powerful way.

3) Questions are to be avoided and suppressed at all costs
This is one assumption that really bothers me whenever I see it in faith formation classes or religious discussions. All questions are fair game, and there are no stupid questions if they come from a place of honest curiosity or struggle.

If you’ve ever wondered about doubting God, you’re in the right place. I’m sending out a full reflection in my newsletter going out on October 14th. Link in my bio to sign up!

If you’ve ever wondered about doubting God, you’re in the right place. I’m sending out a full reflection in my newsletter going out on October 14th. Link in my bio to sign up!

Are you struggling with something? Let’s look at Hebrews 12 together for some encouragement. #prayer #bible

Are you struggling with something? Let’s look at Hebrews 12 together for some encouragement. #prayer #bible

Acceptance doesn’t necessarily mean agreement, but it can help you determine what God is asking you to do next.

The train story really happened - we missed our train because we accidentally got on the wrong one! The extra day in Salzburg was a real treat once we accepted our situation and figured out what our next travel options were.

God bless!

Acceptance doesn’t necessarily mean agreement, but it can help you determine what God is asking you to do next.

The train story really happened - we missed our train because we accidentally got on the wrong one! The extra day in Salzburg was a real treat once we accepted our situation and figured out what our next travel options were.

God bless!

Photo dump! Grand Canyon for the family trip, part 2. Y’all – this place is amazing! We went out at 4am and saw several shooting stars. I can’t imagine what it would be like here during a meteor shower. The hike into the canyon was incredible – there is so much beauty in God’s creation

The guys kept showing up with matching outfits. They say it was unplanned…

Photo dump! Grand Canyon for the family trip, part 2. Y’all – this place is amazing! We went out at 4am and saw several shooting stars. I can’t imagine what it would be like here during a meteor shower. The hike into the canyon was incredible – there is so much beauty in God’s creation

The guys kept showing up with matching outfits. They say it was unplanned…

I have been wrestling with the events of the last few weeks, and I imagine you have been, too. I have a few thoughts that I want to share with you, and hope that they bring you hope and peace in this time of sorrow and fear.

I have been wrestling with the events of the last few weeks, and I imagine you have been, too. I have a few thoughts that I want to share with you, and hope that they bring you hope and peace in this time of sorrow and fear.

First photo dump from Family trip to Saguaro National Park. I love the variation of the cacti - tall sentinel, arms akimbo wildness, Avengers character, and Larry Boy (Veggie Tales anyone??)

Stay tuned for more pictures from our time at the Grand Canyon!

First photo dump from Family trip to Saguaro National Park. I love the variation of the cacti - tall sentinel, arms akimbo wildness, Avengers character, and Larry Boy (Veggie Tales anyone??)

Stay tuned for more pictures from our time at the Grand Canyon!

Have you ever wondered why God allows suffering? I have a few thoughts about it, swipe through to read. #suffering #god #catholicspeaker #spiritualdirection

Have you ever wondered why God allows suffering? I have a few thoughts about it, swipe through to read. #suffering #god #catholicspeaker #spiritualdirection

More pictures from our trip to San Francisco! Some photos from our trip so far - St Mary’s Cathedral in San Francisco. It’s a striking combo of minimalist architecture and La Sagrada familia. It was really beautiful in a massive sort of way. We also found St Dominic’s - another beautiful church here! And the wonky, wacky building is just a fun one we saw as we walked around the city.

More pictures from our trip to San Francisco! Some photos from our trip so far - St Mary’s Cathedral in San Francisco. It’s a striking combo of minimalist architecture and La Sagrada familia. It was really beautiful in a massive sort of way. We also found St Dominic’s - another beautiful church here! And the wonky, wacky building is just a fun one we saw as we walked around the city.

Join me in praying for those affected by the shooting at Annunciation today.

Join me in praying for those affected by the shooting at Annunciation today.

We are visiting friends in San Francisco and finally got a picture with some of the Golden Gate Bridge. We visit our friends here on a fairly regular basis, but the bridge is usually hidden until the day we leave.

We are visiting friends in San Francisco and finally got a picture with some of the Golden Gate Bridge. We visit our friends here on a fairly regular basis, but the bridge is usually hidden until the day we leave.

What question are you asking of God right now? #prayer #jesus #catholicspeaker

What question are you asking of God right now? #prayer #jesus #catholicspeaker

I may have recorded this MONTHS ago when Bl. Carlo Acutis’ canonization was supposed to happen, but I saved it for now (that is also why my hair looks much longer). I’m so excited for September 7, when he will finally be Saint Carlo Acutis.

I may have recorded this MONTHS ago when Bl. Carlo Acutis’ canonization was supposed to happen, but I saved it for now (that is also why my hair looks much longer). I’m so excited for September 7, when he will finally be Saint Carlo Acutis.

Maybe you need to hear this today. God is not waiting to give you what you need. You have it already - in Him. Turn to God, let Him shepherd you. There is nothing that you lack.

God Bless ❤️

Maybe you need to hear this today. God is not waiting to give you what you need. You have it already - in Him. Turn to God, let Him shepherd you. There is nothing that you lack.

God Bless ❤️

Hello again! A little more about me for those of you who are new here (and some of you who have been around a while!) I’m so glad you’re here 💕

I am pretty low maintenance except for two things – tea and salt (bet you never saw that coming, did you?)

London Fogs are my drink, and my favorite is the cardamom-rose London Fog at my local coffee shop – love you Trianon Coffee! One of the hardest things about traveling is missing my tea, so I bring my home supplies with me – Earl Grey loose leaf, cardamom pods, rose petals, and a frother for my milk. A London Fog is my go-to at least once a day. I’ve recently added Irish Breakfast with a splash of vanilla in the tea and the froth. Y’all, it’s a game changer!

I love salt. I mean, really love it – friends and family members bring me salts from around the world as souvenirs, and I get so excited. (Yes, they are all different, and yes, I can tell!) My husband recently gave me pink Himalayan salt rocks and a salt grater for my birthday, and it was my favorite gift this year. They are soooo cool!

Sharing God’s graces with you is a gift that gives back to me at least one hundred-fold. Thank you for joining me on the journey. May God bless us all as we find our way home together.

Hello again! A little more about me for those of you who are new here (and some of you who have been around a while!) I’m so glad you’re here 💕

I am pretty low maintenance except for two things – tea and salt (bet you never saw that coming, did you?)

London Fogs are my drink, and my favorite is the cardamom-rose London Fog at my local coffee shop – love you Trianon Coffee! One of the hardest things about traveling is missing my tea, so I bring my home supplies with me – Earl Grey loose leaf, cardamom pods, rose petals, and a frother for my milk. A London Fog is my go-to at least once a day. I’ve recently added Irish Breakfast with a splash of vanilla in the tea and the froth. Y’all, it’s a game changer!

I love salt. I mean, really love it – friends and family members bring me salts from around the world as souvenirs, and I get so excited. (Yes, they are all different, and yes, I can tell!) My husband recently gave me pink Himalayan salt rocks and a salt grater for my birthday, and it was my favorite gift this year. They are soooo cool!

Sharing God’s graces with you is a gift that gives back to me at least one hundred-fold. Thank you for joining me on the journey. May God bless us all as we find our way home together.

Forgiveness has been a BIG topic in my life for a while, and I have noticed that I’m not the only one wrestling with it. Several people in my spiritual direction practice are trying hard to forgive; my children and their friends are dealing with it; talks about forgiveness at the SEEK conference I attended last January were filled to overflowing with people longing to find a way to forgive.

It’s hard sometimes.

We are called to forgive as we are forgiven, but there are times when answering that call can be complicated – so let’s talk about it.

What do you want to know? What are your questions? What are your struggles?

Post them in the comments and let’s work through this together. #forgiveness

Forgiveness has been a BIG topic in my life for a while, and I have noticed that I’m not the only one wrestling with it. Several people in my spiritual direction practice are trying hard to forgive; my children and their friends are dealing with it; talks about forgiveness at the SEEK conference I attended last January were filled to overflowing with people longing to find a way to forgive.

It’s hard sometimes.

We are called to forgive as we are forgiven, but there are times when answering that call can be complicated – so let’s talk about it.

What do you want to know? What are your questions? What are your struggles?

Post them in the comments and let’s work through this together. #forgiveness

My newsletter subscribers got an entire reflection about spiritual dryness, did you miss out? It’s not too late! Sign up for my newsletter and comment “Newsletter” and it will be sent to your DMs! #prayer #jesus #reflection

My newsletter subscribers got an entire reflection about spiritual dryness, did you miss out? It’s not too late! Sign up for my newsletter and comment “Newsletter” and it will be sent to your DMs! #prayer #jesus #reflection

Welcome! We have a few new faces here, so it’s probably time for another Friday introduction. I am delighted to see several familiar names from the Catholic Women’s Conference last weekend. I enjoyed meeting many of you and look forward to being on this beautiful journey of life in Christ with you. I’m so glad you’re here.

A little about me –

I have always been someone people come to with their stories. I love when someone starts a conversation with “I need to tell you this because you’ll understand…” They usually continue with an incredible story of a God whisper, a small or large miracle, or a moment of great faith. My job as a spiritual director and Catholic author/speaker puts me on the front lines of God’s work in the world, and y’all – it’s the absolute best spot to be!

My husband and I started dating in high school, and now that our four children are out of the nest, we’re working on our new dating style. Travel is a significant part of it, and so is adopting a more European eating style – deciding what to make for dinner a couple of hours before we prepare it and heading to the store for supplies. And heading back again because we forgot something.

On that note – I LOVE HEB!

I mean, really – if you live in Texas, you know.

I love cooking, hiking, being outdoors in cool weather, spending time with my family and friends, having front yard or front room happy hour with my husband (his old-fashioneds are the best!), praying in my cozy corner, and buying a bouquet of flowers just because.

It’s so nice to meet you. Tell me, what are some of your favorite things?

Welcome! We have a few new faces here, so it’s probably time for another Friday introduction. I am delighted to see several familiar names from the Catholic Women’s Conference last weekend. I enjoyed meeting many of you and look forward to being on this beautiful journey of life in Christ with you. I’m so glad you’re here.

A little about me –

I have always been someone people come to with their stories. I love when someone starts a conversation with “I need to tell you this because you’ll understand…” They usually continue with an incredible story of a God whisper, a small or large miracle, or a moment of great faith. My job as a spiritual director and Catholic author/speaker puts me on the front lines of God’s work in the world, and y’all – it’s the absolute best spot to be!

My husband and I started dating in high school, and now that our four children are out of the nest, we’re working on our new dating style. Travel is a significant part of it, and so is adopting a more European eating style – deciding what to make for dinner a couple of hours before we prepare it and heading to the store for supplies. And heading back again because we forgot something.

On that note – I LOVE HEB!

I mean, really – if you live in Texas, you know.

I love cooking, hiking, being outdoors in cool weather, spending time with my family and friends, having front yard or front room happy hour with my husband (his old-fashioneds are the best!), praying in my cozy corner, and buying a bouquet of flowers just because.

It’s so nice to meet you. Tell me, what are some of your favorite things?

The @pilgrimpeople Catholic Women’s Conference was such a blessing to be a part of! Thank you to everyone who came and especially to those who stopped by my table afterwards. It was such a blessing to hear your stories and connect in faith.

The @pilgrimpeople Catholic Women’s Conference was such a blessing to be a part of! Thank you to everyone who came and especially to those who stopped by my table afterwards. It was such a blessing to hear your stories and connect in faith.

Have you heard that God answers prayers in three ways – yes, no, and not yet?

I’ve heard it and even shared it on occasion, and it’s always that “not yet” that gets us, isn’t it? I LOVE the “yes” I can deal with and move on from the “no,” but the “not yet” leaves me wondering what to do with it. Not yet?? So now what?? Do I sit tight, or do I keep moving? Am I even going in the right direction? Are you even there, God??

I don’t do nearly as well as I would like with that in-between answer. I like things to be wrapped up quickly, so when it’s clear to me that something is going to take a while and the process is part of the plan, it takes me a minute.

Sometimes, I have to gear up for a journey that I had no idea I would be on.

When I do, I think of Elijah sitting under a broom tree, ready to give up. God commands him to eat and provides the bread that will give him strength for the journey.

We have this bread today.

In the waiting, we are nourished by the body and blood of Christ in the Eucharist and by the Holy Spirit in prayer. The waiting is part of the journey, and rather than fighting the “not yet,” we can embrace it and find that the waiting is exactly where we should be.

How do you get through the “not yet”? Let me know in the comments!

Have you heard that God answers prayers in three ways – yes, no, and not yet?

I’ve heard it and even shared it on occasion, and it’s always that “not yet” that gets us, isn’t it? I LOVE the “yes” I can deal with and move on from the “no,” but the “not yet” leaves me wondering what to do with it. Not yet?? So now what?? Do I sit tight, or do I keep moving? Am I even going in the right direction? Are you even there, God??

I don’t do nearly as well as I would like with that in-between answer. I like things to be wrapped up quickly, so when it’s clear to me that something is going to take a while and the process is part of the plan, it takes me a minute.

Sometimes, I have to gear up for a journey that I had no idea I would be on.

When I do, I think of Elijah sitting under a broom tree, ready to give up. God commands him to eat and provides the bread that will give him strength for the journey.

We have this bread today.

In the waiting, we are nourished by the body and blood of Christ in the Eucharist and by the Holy Spirit in prayer. The waiting is part of the journey, and rather than fighting the “not yet,” we can embrace it and find that the waiting is exactly where we should be.

How do you get through the “not yet”? Let me know in the comments!

My parents wrote a book! This is a great read (and gift!) for the grandparents out there. Check the link in my bio to order! https://a.co/d/bivADbG

My parents wrote a book! This is a great read (and gift!) for the grandparents out there. Check the link in my bio to order! https://a.co/d/bivADbG

Have you ever wondered about discernment? Get the answers to these questions and more when you listen to my podcast interview with @pilgrimpeople and make sure to join me for the Pilgrims of Hope women’s conference (link in bio) on July 26th.

Have you ever wondered about discernment? Get the answers to these questions and more when you listen to my podcast interview with @pilgrimpeople and make sure to join me for the Pilgrims of Hope women’s conference (link in bio) on July 26th.

This is my adoration playlist and I wanted to share it with you. Feel free to listen on your headphones in adoration or in the car while driving to adoration.

Find it here!
http://bit.ly/4lmGOKl

This is my adoration playlist and I wanted to share it with you. Feel free to listen on your headphones in adoration or in the car while driving to adoration.

Find it here!
http://bit.ly/4lmGOKl

Has your faith been shaken by the Texas floods? You’re not alone.

Has your faith been shaken by the Texas floods? You’re not alone.

My heart is breaking for all those who are affected by the Guadalupe River floods.

In our family’s circles, we know of two children who have been returned home to their parents, and one child who is in the arms of her heavenly Father. We know some of the counselors who were working at the camp and brought many children to safety, but are mourning the loss of the ones they couldn’t. Our faith brings us hope and comfort, but the pain of letting go is immense and something that cannot and should not be denied. There is so much grief for those who remain and for those who must sit by and wait in the rain that continues even now.

Please join me in praying for the safe return of those who are stranded and for the comfort of the families who have lost children in this horrible event.

My heart is breaking for all those who are affected by the Guadalupe River floods.

In our family’s circles, we know of two children who have been returned home to their parents, and one child who is in the arms of her heavenly Father. We know some of the counselors who were working at the camp and brought many children to safety, but are mourning the loss of the ones they couldn’t. Our faith brings us hope and comfort, but the pain of letting go is immense and something that cannot and should not be denied. There is so much grief for those who remain and for those who must sit by and wait in the rain that continues even now.

Please join me in praying for the safe return of those who are stranded and for the comfort of the families who have lost children in this horrible event.

What do you say when someone apologizes? People often say “It’s okay”, but that may be conveying the wrong message. There is a difference between acceptance and agreement. Watch to hear more! #forgivness

What do you say when someone apologizes? People often say “It’s okay”, but that may be conveying the wrong message. There is a difference between acceptance and agreement. Watch to hear more! #forgivness

We’ve had a really busy May and June. Between graduation, travel, friends and children in town, and my husband’s crisis-level workload, there hasn’t been much downtime.

We’ve had a lot of fun, and I am so grateful for all of it (maybe not the work schedule, but even that isn’t so bad because my husband’s specific skills are desperately needed and making a difference). But today, I am grateful for a quiet house, a restful evening, and an empty calendar.

I love the busy and bustle when there are lots of people and activities going on, but sometimes I just need a day to stop, rest, and watch the world go by. Today is one of those days, and tomorrow, I will be ready to go again. For that, I will also be grateful.

Tell me what you’re grateful for in the comments - I’d love to hear what is bringing you peace and joy today!

We’ve had a really busy May and June. Between graduation, travel, friends and children in town, and my husband’s crisis-level workload, there hasn’t been much downtime.

We’ve had a lot of fun, and I am so grateful for all of it (maybe not the work schedule, but even that isn’t so bad because my husband’s specific skills are desperately needed and making a difference). But today, I am grateful for a quiet house, a restful evening, and an empty calendar.

I love the busy and bustle when there are lots of people and activities going on, but sometimes I just need a day to stop, rest, and watch the world go by. Today is one of those days, and tomorrow, I will be ready to go again. For that, I will also be grateful.

Tell me what you’re grateful for in the comments - I’d love to hear what is bringing you peace and joy today!

The Pilgrim Center for Hope Conference is just around the corner, July 26 in San Antonio! I’ll be giving two talks and would love to have you there. Link to register in my bio. @pilgrimpeople

The Pilgrim Center for Hope Conference is just around the corner, July 26 in San Antonio! I’ll be giving two talks and would love to have you there. Link to register in my bio. @pilgrimpeople

1) ‘Tis the season
Summer is filled with holidays, vacations, school-aged children at home, and hot, sunny days drawing us outside and into the pool. The different pace of summer can inspire us to enter into a different season in our prayer lives.

Here are some ideas that you might try:

Add a prayer practice you’ve been hearing about
Spend 5 minutes each day in prayerful silence (schedule it and set an alarm)
Go to Adoration once a week
Join or start a summer Bible study
Go to confession once a month
Pray one of your regular prayers slowly, reflecting on the words you are saying
Start a prayer journal

Ask God to help you choose something and follow through with whatever He places on your heart.

2) Pray a morning offering
Say a prayer before you get out of bed in the morning - maybe even before you open your eyes!

One of my favorite ways to wake up with prayer is a simple offering – “Lord, I give this day to you. I welcome you into everything I do, everything I say, and every thought I have. Bless me and help me to receive all that comes my way with grace. Amen.”

It takes less than thirty seconds, but when it comes from your heart, it changes things!

3) Take the pressure off
If you are inspired to start a new practice, give yourself grace as you begin. No one runs a marathon the first time they put on running shoes.

If an hour in Adoration is more than you can do, start with 30 minutes. Or 15. If you can’t pray an entire rosary without a young child needing your attention, do one decade at a time and sprinkle it throughout your day.

Don’t let the perfect get in the way of the good. There is still plenty of summer left to get in a good prayer rhythm and I hope these ideas can help out. #prayer #summer

1) ‘Tis the season
Summer is filled with holidays, vacations, school-aged children at home, and hot, sunny days drawing us outside and into the pool. The different pace of summer can inspire us to enter into a different season in our prayer lives.

Here are some ideas that you might try:

Add a prayer practice you’ve been hearing about
Spend 5 minutes each day in prayerful silence (schedule it and set an alarm)
Go to Adoration once a week
Join or start a summer Bible study
Go to confession once a month
Pray one of your regular prayers slowly, reflecting on the words you are saying
Start a prayer journal

Ask God to help you choose something and follow through with whatever He places on your heart.

2) Pray a morning offering
Say a prayer before you get out of bed in the morning - maybe even before you open your eyes!

One of my favorite ways to wake up with prayer is a simple offering – “Lord, I give this day to you. I welcome you into everything I do, everything I say, and every thought I have. Bless me and help me to receive all that comes my way with grace. Amen.”

It takes less than thirty seconds, but when it comes from your heart, it changes things!

3) Take the pressure off
If you are inspired to start a new practice, give yourself grace as you begin. No one runs a marathon the first time they put on running shoes.

If an hour in Adoration is more than you can do, start with 30 minutes. Or 15. If you can’t pray an entire rosary without a young child needing your attention, do one decade at a time and sprinkle it throughout your day.

Don’t let the perfect get in the way of the good. There is still plenty of summer left to get in a good prayer rhythm and I hope these ideas can help out. #prayer #summer

An excerpt from a reflection on hope that will go out to my newsletter subscribers. I will be sending this out on July 1 so sign up today! Subscribe here or at the link in my bio: https://mailchi.mp/e438074efd02/subscribe-on-email-list

An excerpt from a reflection on hope that will go out to my newsletter subscribers. I will be sending this out on July 1 so sign up today! Subscribe here or at the link in my bio: https://mailchi.mp/e438074efd02/subscribe-on-email-list

He’s a teenager, and it shows 😂, but every time I ask for his intercession he pulls through! #carloacutis

He’s a teenager, and it shows 😂, but every time I ask for his intercession he pulls through! #carloacutis

June is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This quote is from 1928, but still applies just the same today. #sacredheart #jesus

June is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This quote is from 1928, but still applies just the same today. #sacredheart #jesus

I will be speaking at the Catholic Pilgrim's for Hope Women's conference this July! Please join me for an awesome conference on July 26 at the Norris Conference center in San Antonio. Follow the link to register!
https://pilgrimcenterofhope.org/events/conferences/womens-conference/event-registration.html

I will be speaking at the Catholic Pilgrim's for Hope Women's conference this July! Please join me for an awesome conference on July 26 at the Norris Conference center in San Antonio. Follow the link to register!
https://pilgrimcenterofhope.org/events/conferences/womens-conference/event-registration.html

A few other highlights from the trip! Our Lady of Fatima and a copy of Christ the Redeemer statue (like the one in Brazil and a Golden Gate-like bridge)!

A few other highlights from the trip! Our Lady of Fatima and a copy of Christ the Redeemer statue (like the one in Brazil and a Golden Gate-like bridge)!

We attended a wedding while in Portugal and it was beautiful! The white peacock showed up just before the wedding, and I swear he announced the start of the wedding and the arrival of the bride.

We attended a wedding while in Portugal and it was beautiful! The white peacock showed up just before the wedding, and I swear he announced the start of the wedding and the arrival of the bride.

More pictures from our Camino pilgrimage last week. I carried your intentions with me each step of the way. #camino

More pictures from our Camino pilgrimage last week. I carried your intentions with me each step of the way. #camino

Our last day on the Camino! We didn’t plan to make it to Santiago de Compostela, so this is a preview trip, but it was our favorite day of the four. The ocean was beautiful, but today was spent in the forested hills and on tiny streets through the middle of towns along the way, and it was just what we needed.

We started with prayer, a rosary (where my daughter realized that her bracelet with the weirdly unbalanced number of beads was a rosary bracelet 😂), and a prayer to St Michael in St Michael’s church. It felt appropriate since several of the intentions I carried today were pretty significant.

The simple act of walking as prayer, especially as you grow tired, deal with heat or cold, and your legs start to ache, reminds me that we are called to continue on the journeys we are given in our lives, bringing Christ with us, doing the hard things to get to the good things, and believing that there is a home prepared for us at the end of it all.

Thank you for your prayers for us along the way. I definitely felt them. And thank you for trusting me with your intentions. I hope you felt my prayers as well.

May God bless you on your own Camino, wherever it may lead. 🙏❤️

Our last day on the Camino! We didn’t plan to make it to Santiago de Compostela, so this is a preview trip, but it was our favorite day of the four. The ocean was beautiful, but today was spent in the forested hills and on tiny streets through the middle of towns along the way, and it was just what we needed.

We started with prayer, a rosary (where my daughter realized that her bracelet with the weirdly unbalanced number of beads was a rosary bracelet 😂), and a prayer to St Michael in St Michael’s church. It felt appropriate since several of the intentions I carried today were pretty significant.

The simple act of walking as prayer, especially as you grow tired, deal with heat or cold, and your legs start to ache, reminds me that we are called to continue on the journeys we are given in our lives, bringing Christ with us, doing the hard things to get to the good things, and believing that there is a home prepared for us at the end of it all.

Thank you for your prayers for us along the way. I definitely felt them. And thank you for trusting me with your intentions. I hope you felt my prayers as well.

May God bless you on your own Camino, wherever it may lead. 🙏❤️

We had a small miracle on Day 3 on the Camino.

We started the day in a beautiful church, praying for all the intentions we have been given, followed by a rosary, and the St Michael prayer, but today we had an urgent request that I happened to get because I texted a friend at 1:45am her time.

She had just gotten a phone from her son. His wife is 27 weeks pregnant and going into labor. We prayed throughout the day with each update we received. This baby was coming; he was coming in the next day or two at most; and finally, the contractions were under control.

What a blessing to be a part of such a moment of reaching for hope, peace, and grace and receiving such a clear blessing. I hope it is a sign that all of your intentions that have been with me on this journey are being answered with such grace as well.

Today is our last day. I’ll be praying for you 🙏❤️

We had a small miracle on Day 3 on the Camino.

We started the day in a beautiful church, praying for all the intentions we have been given, followed by a rosary, and the St Michael prayer, but today we had an urgent request that I happened to get because I texted a friend at 1:45am her time.

She had just gotten a phone from her son. His wife is 27 weeks pregnant and going into labor. We prayed throughout the day with each update we received. This baby was coming; he was coming in the next day or two at most; and finally, the contractions were under control.

What a blessing to be a part of such a moment of reaching for hope, peace, and grace and receiving such a clear blessing. I hope it is a sign that all of your intentions that have been with me on this journey are being answered with such grace as well.

Today is our last day. I’ll be praying for you 🙏❤️

We are walking the Camino! Mass at the Church of St Anthony to offer prayers for intentions people have sent me, then 19 miles on the Portuguese coastal route. (Actually 13 miles - some of us thought it would be a great idea to walk 6 more to our hotel. We drove to dinner!)

Offering every step for the intentions that start my day. Comment or dm me if you would like me to pray for you 🙏

We are walking the Camino! Mass at the Church of St Anthony to offer prayers for intentions people have sent me, then 19 miles on the Portuguese coastal route. (Actually 13 miles - some of us thought it would be a great idea to walk 6 more to our hotel. We drove to dinner!)

Offering every step for the intentions that start my day. Comment or dm me if you would like me to pray for you 🙏

It is heating up in Texas y'all! Summer is coming fast. Are you ready? What is your favorite season?

It is heating up in Texas y'all! Summer is coming fast. Are you ready? What is your favorite season?

Did you hear Pope Leo's name in the Eucharistic Prayer for the first time in mass last weekend? It was so exciting! What a blessing to witness this time in Church history. Did you pay attention to that moment?

Did you hear Pope Leo's name in the Eucharistic Prayer for the first time in mass last weekend? It was so exciting! What a blessing to witness this time in Church history. Did you pay attention to that moment?

❤️ Y’all, these girls! ❤️ Four years ago, they connected through the University Catholic Center @ut_catholic, and have been friends ever since. We have been so blessed to have them become part of our family.

We have had this friend group over for dinners, brunches, Easter egg hunts, and pickleball, and they have been delightful. The joy and laughter that fills my house when they come fills me up to overflowing every time.

They encourage each other, strengthen each other, cheer for each other, and pray for each other. I am so grateful for these friendships that have stood the test of late nights, heartaches, exams, and the occasional camping trip.

Now it is time for them to move into the next phase of their lives as they graduate from the University of Texas, and I will miss them terribly. They know they have a place here whenever they want, and I cannot wait to see what God has in store for each of them. I know they will make a difference in the world.

I love you, Bootlegs!!

(Not pictured are the two young men of the group, who are just as important to me as these young women. Congratulations, everyone!)

❤️ Y’all, these girls! ❤️ Four years ago, they connected through the University Catholic Center @ut_catholic, and have been friends ever since. We have been so blessed to have them become part of our family.

We have had this friend group over for dinners, brunches, Easter egg hunts, and pickleball, and they have been delightful. The joy and laughter that fills my house when they come fills me up to overflowing every time.

They encourage each other, strengthen each other, cheer for each other, and pray for each other. I am so grateful for these friendships that have stood the test of late nights, heartaches, exams, and the occasional camping trip.

Now it is time for them to move into the next phase of their lives as they graduate from the University of Texas, and I will miss them terribly. They know they have a place here whenever they want, and I cannot wait to see what God has in store for each of them. I know they will make a difference in the world.

I love you, Bootlegs!!

(Not pictured are the two young men of the group, who are just as important to me as these young women. Congratulations, everyone!)

I can’t believe it’s been four years. Y’all, it goes fast!

We are so proud of you, Jenna! You’re an alumni now 🤗 👩‍🎓

Congratulations!!!🎉🎉🎉

I can’t believe it’s been four years. Y’all, it goes fast!

We are so proud of you, Jenna! You’re an alumni now 🤗 👩‍🎓

Congratulations!!!🎉🎉🎉

Last weekend we did the Wine Country Century Bike Ride - 62 miles in the bag! We’ve been trying to get to this ride since 2020 and this year we not only made it but we finished it!

Okay, Mike was always going to finish it - I was planning on riding in the sag wagon for the last bit, but the tailwind, gorgeous scenery, and encouragement from my husband in the last half helped overcome the exhausted muscles. Knowing there was a big downhill at the end was the only thing that got me up the last hill, though! What a beautiful day.

Thank you so much to our friends who hosted us for the weekend and invited us to do this ride with them!!

Last weekend we did the Wine Country Century Bike Ride - 62 miles in the bag! We’ve been trying to get to this ride since 2020 and this year we not only made it but we finished it!

Okay, Mike was always going to finish it - I was planning on riding in the sag wagon for the last bit, but the tailwind, gorgeous scenery, and encouragement from my husband in the last half helped overcome the exhausted muscles. Knowing there was a big downhill at the end was the only thing that got me up the last hill, though! What a beautiful day.

Thank you so much to our friends who hosted us for the weekend and invited us to do this ride with them!!

How I saw the white smoke as it happened: I had missed the first two votes of the morning, so I went onto the Vatican website to see if somehow I missed the election of our new pope. Sure enough, the smoke had been black, but there was a live feed at the chimney That I could watch since the next boat was supposed to be within half an hour. So I did, and I kept watching because there was a family of seagulls wandering around making a cameo appearance by the chimney, Mama feeding the baby something remarkably large she had been storing in her stomach. Watching in disbelief at the young bird eating something 80% its size, I saw white smoke start to pour out of the chimney - we have a pope!!!

How I saw the white smoke as it happened: I had missed the first two votes of the morning, so I went onto the Vatican website to see if somehow I missed the election of our new pope. Sure enough, the smoke had been black, but there was a live feed at the chimney That I could watch since the next boat was supposed to be within half an hour. So I did, and I kept watching because there was a family of seagulls wandering around making a cameo appearance by the chimney, Mama feeding the baby something remarkably large she had been storing in her stomach. Watching in disbelief at the young bird eating something 80% its size, I saw white smoke start to pour out of the chimney - we have a pope!!!

I love all the drama and excitement about the Conclave to select the next Pope. I also firmly believe that no matter the intrigue or what cloak and dagger moves may be present, the Holy Spirit is completely in charge of the outcome.

My daughter and son-in-law might even have a chance to be present for the white smoke and announcement of 'Habemus Papam'!

What do you think? Are you following the conclave? Are you excited or nervous?

I love all the drama and excitement about the Conclave to select the next Pope. I also firmly believe that no matter the intrigue or what cloak and dagger moves may be present, the Holy Spirit is completely in charge of the outcome.

My daughter and son-in-law might even have a chance to be present for the white smoke and announcement of 'Habemus Papam'!

What do you think? Are you following the conclave? Are you excited or nervous?

I did the Austin Catholic trifecta last week - confession, rosary, and Mass - all done over the lunch hour. I have to say, today I felt it. The things I had been carrying just lifted as soon as I brought them to Jesus and the priest started to speak, sharing comfort, guidance, and most of all, forgiveness.

God is so good and so gracious. I love the gift of the sacrament of reconciliation as we hear the words, “Your sins are forgiven,” and turn to the open arms of Jesus who has been waiting to heal us and draw us in.

If you haven’t gone to confession for a while, please go. Don’t be afraid. Just go. Don’t make big things small or small things big, just bring it all, leave it there, and go home lighter and filled with grace.

I’ll be praying for you.

I did the Austin Catholic trifecta last week - confession, rosary, and Mass - all done over the lunch hour. I have to say, today I felt it. The things I had been carrying just lifted as soon as I brought them to Jesus and the priest started to speak, sharing comfort, guidance, and most of all, forgiveness.

God is so good and so gracious. I love the gift of the sacrament of reconciliation as we hear the words, “Your sins are forgiven,” and turn to the open arms of Jesus who has been waiting to heal us and draw us in.

If you haven’t gone to confession for a while, please go. Don’t be afraid. Just go. Don’t make big things small or small things big, just bring it all, leave it there, and go home lighter and filled with grace.

I’ll be praying for you.

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Karen May

Inspirational Catholic Writer and Speaker

based in Austin, Texas

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