It was a good week. It was by no means perfect, but maybe, just maybe, they will see their shirts or crafts and smile fondly.

On Wednesday, we talked about St. Claire. My sweet Goddaughter, Claire, sent us a book to read and her older brother, Luke, drew a comic for us! Seriously, this was such a sweet surprise and wonderful way to feel connected to our dear friends.

We took Thursday off. We had a late start and I just couldn’t get it together. I called my sweet mama, feeling guilty that I’d let the morning slip by and she was so reassuring.

She reminded me that some days we just need a day off. She asked if the kids were happy and peaceful and persuaded me to just let it be. Let them enjoy a day to just be silly and rest.

She’s a smart one, my mama.

Today we learned of Saint Padre Pio. We spoke of how he was a beloved confessor and had the stigmata of Christ. Our church, St. Bernard of Clairvaux, has a relic of Saint Padre Pio. We have a glove that was worn by him!

After we were finished with the story today, we headed up to the church to find the glove. The church was so peaceful. It was quiet and serene. It was good just to be inside with the kids.

What an honor to see the glove of a man the loved Christ with his entire life. He asked Christians to think of confession as a good dusting of the soul – to examine their conscience twice a day.

His motto was “Pray, Hope, and Don’t Worry.” I’m pretty sure this is what we should adopt every single day!

I’ve decided we will keep going and do it next week, too! We have more emails from family to go through and I can’t wait for them to lean more about the sweet prayer warriors that pray for them always.