Youth for Life Australia now has a web site. It’s only just gone live so more information will be added to each category as time goes on.
The youth of Australia are on fire with the fight against legalised abortion in Victoria. Their aim is to have an abortion free Australia and they will keep working on it until that goal is reached …. and beyond to keep it that way. Here is an excerpt from their About Us page …..
Youth for Life is committed to educating this generation with the truth about human life and exposing the lies of the abortion industry. Our members are dedicated to activating this generation to take a stand for the most innocent of Australian citizens who are slaughtered every day by the abortion holocaust. Youth For Life understand the importance of training the youth of Australia and empowering them with the knowledge needed to combat the death camps of this nation. We will not allow apathy to grip Australia as innocent human beings are being killed in the name of choice. …… more
Please do visit Youth for Life and take a look around. This work is all voluntary by the youth. You may wish to support them in some way ….. prayers are always needed.
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FOR TODAY…
Outside my window…
… there are pink and floral bed sheets on the clothes line, blowing about with the wind - it’s a great time for washing to dry quickly, even if it’s cold outside.
The sun is shining again today.
I am thinking…
… about how I should be taking time out in the sunshine but how comfortable I’m feeling enjoying it from the inside.
I am thankful for…
… the new friends I’ve made through World Youth Day in Sydney last year.
From the learning rooms…
… God has a plan for each of us. We don’t always see it this way until further down the track when his plan comes together and we can see it. Sometimes there’s a long time in waiting but He makes all things beautiful in His time.
From the kitchen…
… it’s afternoon tea time so coffee will be brewing any second now.
I am wearing…
… black fleece pants, burgundy jumper, patterned pink shawl (trying to let some fresh air in but it’s cold), and burgundy head band.
I am creating…
… some tassells for gifts. One is already finished, wrapped and given. I now would like to finish of a few more.
I am praying…
… for some special needs.
I am going…
… to my sister’s place tonight, after dinner.
I am reading…
… bits and pieces from Bible, decor & business magazines.
I am hoping…
… that patient endurance and humble trust will not escape me.
I am hearing…
… the wind blowing around the house.
Around the house…
… too much to talk about and I don’t want to complain so I’m giving it over to the Lord.
One of my favourite things...
… having the sun streaming through the windows, warming and lighting up the room. This is always welcomed in winter
A few plans for the rest of the week:
Shopping; Holy Hour and Adoration at the Cathedral followed by dinner & dessert afterwards; Doctors appointment; three work out sessions for the week.
`Here is a picture thought I am sharing…
One tassel finished …
… and wrapped in green tissue paper.
If you would like to join in, please visit Peggy, who hosts The Simple Woman’s Daybook, and also check out other Daybook entries.
While Peggy is taking a well deserved break from her daybook, Grandmother Wren will be hosting it so we can meet up with those who wish to continue their daybooks until Peggy’s return.
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FOR TODAY…
Outside my window…
… the winter sun is streaming through our north facing windows. It’s feels so good to have the sun warming the room.
I am thinking…
… about my son’s 18th birthday - not until October but the plans for celebrating it are being tossed about.
I am thankful for…
… My God who takes care of my every need.
From the learning rooms…
… write it down in your diary so you don’t forget.
From the kitchen…
… there is left over caramel mud cake from Sunday’s prayer meeting … and it’s waiting for me to pull it out of the fridge and eat it 
I am wearing…
… now don’t laugh … my exercise clothes - track pants, t-shirt and runners - ‘cos I’m off to exercise after I’ve eaten my cake
I am creating…
… a workable work space … yes, it’s the never ending saga which I hope will eventually end so I can show you before & after pics.
I am praying for…
… the Iranian people
I am going…
… out to exercise soon.
I am reading…
… can’t think at the moment … that probably means ‘nothing’.
I am hoping…
… to stop procrastinating about changing my eating habits if I’m going to lose weight.
I am hearing…
… the clock ticking from the kitchen….. well it was the only thing I could hear until my son started on the piano, lol …. not complaining, he’s good.
Around the house…
… floor needs mopping, family room needs a tidy up, carpet needs a vacuum … maybe I should forget going off to exercise, lol.
One of my favourite things…
… vintage pictures.
A few plans for the rest of the week:
… I’m hoping to create a new batch of gift cards; Take a couple of walks in the sunshine; write more post for all three blogs;
Here is a picture thought I am sharing…
If you would like to join in, please visit Peggy, who hosts The Simple Woman’s Daybook, and also check out other Daybook entries.
While Peggy is taking a well deserved break from her daybook, Grandmother Wren will be hosting it so we can meet up with those who wish to continue their daybooks until Peggy’s return.
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At today’s Prayer & Praise Meeting this following scripture was shared. The words are so beautiful ……..
Listen to me, you devout children of mine and blossom like a rosebush on a stream bank. Bloom like a sweet-smelling lily and send your fragrance into the air like incense. Sing the Lord’s praises and thank Him for all that He has done. Proclaim His glory in grateful praise!….
…… Everything made by the Lord is good; He meets every need at the proper time. No one can claim that some things are worse than others, for everything is good in its proper place. Now then, sing praises with all your heart, and praise the name of the Lord!
This is taken from Sirach (Ecclesiasticus) chapter 39, verses13-15 and 33-35, but the whole chapter speaks of how good everything is that the Lord has done, His wisdom and also of people who devote themselves to the gaining of wisdom ….
It is their practice to get up early and pray aloud to the Lord their creator, asking the Most High to forgive their sins. Then, if the great Lord is willing, they will be filled with understandng. They will pour out a steam of wise sayings and give thanks to the Lord in prayer. The will have knowledge to share and good advice to give, as well as insight into the Lord’s secrets.
Sirach 39: 5-7
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What Elena Means: E is for Energetic |
 E is for Energetic L is for Lively E is for Explosive N is for Nutty A is for Artistic |
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1. I made it to Holy Hour tonight. It may not seem like a big effort but it’s at 6.30pm at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and I’m driving in peak hour traffic into town - takes about 40 mins. I don’t ‘have’ to go there for Holy Hour & Adoration but it’s really beautiful - and it’s lovely to see so many youth/young adults attending - many of whom have been to World Youth Day in Sydney.
2. I completed my 3-day trial at Contours and I’m ready to sign on for three months. It doesn’t seem like a long time to commit to exercising but I believe I will make better use of a three month membership (for some reason 12 months of it scares me off, lol) - I’ll review it at the end of that time.
3. The kitchen mess has been lingering for a while so set my mind to it and gave it a good clean. It’s so nice to see clean, clear bench space.
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Small Successes is hosted by Danielle at Faith and Family.
Come and share your little successes and read what other lovely people have to share.
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FOR TODAY… Monday 1st June
Outside my window…
… It’s only 6.30pm but it’s dark outside. Today is the official start of winter.
I am thinking…
… of and reflecting on the beautiful day we had yesterday celebrating Pentecost.
I am thankful for…
… the great friends we have….. what would we do without them.
From the learning rooms…
… Our lives may be the only ‘Bible’ that some people may ever read.
From the kitchen…
… this is bad I know but … nothing.
I am wearing…
… navy track pants, pink socks, black training shoes, pink windcheater.
I am creating…
… a new special for my web site.
I am praying for…
… all the gifts of the Holy Spirit and that I will be fruitful in doing what the Lord requires of me.
I am going…
… we’ve already been out for the weekend and returned this afternoon so won’t be going anywhere tonight……..um, a change of plans - we’re just ducking out for a meal.
I am reading…
… 1 Thessalonians.
I am hoping…
… that winter will seem to pass by quickly.
I am hearing…
… the dog barking (someone must be walking past our house), my son tapping away on his computer keyboard, and the sound of warm air pushing through the ducted vents.
Around the house…
… we left a few things lying around when we set off for the weekend so some tidying up is needed, a load of laundry needs doing and the vacumning …but that will have to wait until tomorrow.
One of my favourite things...
… I love using smilies and emoticons in emails and forums….. and anywhere else I can sneak them in.
A few plans for the rest of the week:
I have another ‘free trial’ appointment at Contours; meeting up with the walking group; organise a few birthday presents; hoping to make it to Holy Hour on Thursday night.
Here is a picture thought I am sharing…
If you would like to join in, please visit Peggy, who hosts The Simple Woman’s Daybook, and also check out other Daybook entries.
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Pentecost is the great festival that marks the birth of the Christian church by the power of the Holy Spirit. Pentecost means “fiftieth day” and is celebrated fifty days after Easter.
Ten days after Jesus ascended into heaven, the twelve apostles, Jesus’ mother and many other of His disciples gathered together in Jerusalem for the Jewish harvest festival that was celebrated on the fiftieth day of Passover. While they were indoors praying, a sound like that of a rushing wind filled the house and tongues of fire descended and rested over each of their heads. This was the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on human flesh promised by God through the prophet Joel. Joel 2:28-29
How beautiful to know that the theme for World Youth 2008 in Sydney was from Acts 1:8
When the Holy Spirit comes upon you, you will be filled with power and you will be my witnesses … to the ends of the earth.
Indeed this is what happened 2000 years ago and is continuing today.
When the day of Pentecost came all the believers were gathered together in one place. Suddenly there was a noise from the sky which sounded like a strong wind blowing and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there was what looked like tongues of fire which spread out and touched each person there. They were filled with the Holy Spirit…….. Acts 2:1-4
Red is the liturgical colour for this day. Red recalls the tongues of flame in which the Holy Spirit descended on the first Pentecost. The colour red also reminds us of the blood of the martyrs. These are the believers of every generation who by the power of the Holy Spirit hold firm to the true faith even at the cost of their lives.
Here we are in the Great South Land of the Holy Spirit - our youth and our land will have been touched in many ways by the Holy Spirit.
What occurred in Sydney 2008 was no coincidence, it was God-incidence.
Are we ready for Him? Are we ready for a great revival in our land?
Do we believe in the power of the Holy Spirit?
Will we accept the gifts of the Holy Spirit and USE them, not just for ourselves but for the good of others as it was intended?
Happy Birthday Dear Church
Happy Pentecost to You All.
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1. I finally managed to paint the laundry door. The first side I painted turned out an awful job. I have been so out of pactice I forgot how to go about it properly. But Praise God, by the time I painted the other side I got it right and it looks great. Fortunately the good side is the side facing out which will be visible to everyone.
2. I booked an appointment to take up a 3 Day Trial Offer with Contours. I’ve been procrastinating over exercising for way too long. My first session is booked for Thursday …. Yay!
3. Shopping trips trips usually include time for coffee and cake or a sweet of some sort - whether I need it or not. On Monday I stuck to my short shopping list and managed to do what I had to do without stopping for a coffee - not that stopping for a coffee is a bad thing, it’s what accompanies the coffee that isn’t always a good thing to do.
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Small Successes is hosted by Danielle at Faith and Family.
Come and share your little successes and read what other lovely people have to share.
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FOR TODAY…
Outside my window…
… it’s night time, late, and the rain has been falling.
I am thinking…
… of the bills that need to be paid.
I am thankful for…
… the Lord’s help, guidance and healing.
From the learning rooms…
… time management.
From the kitchen…
… we have already eaten a delicious meal of apricot chicken and rice ….so all that’s left are the empty dishes waiting to be placed in the dishwasher.
I am wearing…
… my nightie and robe
I am creating…
… a new work space - actually this is an ongoing project which has been making very slow progress, but I’m getting there.
I am praying for…
… two young friends who have given a year to be a part of the NET Ministry - one did her training in Canada and is serving in Ireland; and the other has stayed in Australia and was sent to the far north of Queensland.
I am going…
… to bed, after The Holy Land Rosary on EWTN.
I am reading…
… nothing of interest.
I am hoping…
… to revive my home based business soon.
I am hearing…
… daily mass on EWTN
Around the house…
… the new laundry door has been painted but now I need to clean up the painting gear and put the family room back in order. (the door was too heavy to drag outside to paint so I placed it on the dining table)
One of my favourite things...
… snuggling up on the couch in my pj’s, sipping from a mug of coffee, eating chocolate and watching a great movie, all while wind and rain rages outside.
A few plans for the rest of the week:
Going to my first trial workout session at Contours; work out my next plan of action for the renovations; colour my hair to cover a ‘few’ greys (haven’t done this for over two years); preparing to go away this coming weekend to celebrate Pentecost.
Here is a picture thought I am sharing…
Our dear little Toto was a much loved pooch. These photos were taken a few years back, through our kitchen window (with fly screen). The middle photo was taken a day after. I had to act quickly as Toto would’ve jumped off quickly if he knew we were watching. I miss the little fellow …..
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If you would like to join in, please visit Peggy, who hosts The Simple Woman’s Daybook, and also check out other Daybook entries.
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Therese from Aussie Coffee Shop posted this video on her blog. I love it so had to share it here too ……. I think you’ll love it too.
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I have posted about Our Lady of the Southern Cross previously but I just had to post again as today, May 24th, is the feast of Our Lady of the Southern Cross, Help of Christians - under the title of Help of Christians. In 1844, Mary, under this title was chosen as the patroness of Australia at the First Provincial Synod of Sydney. This statue of Mary, Help of Christians, stands in the Chapel of the Sacred Heart, St. Mary’s Cathedral, Sydney, Australia. The Cathedral was dedicated in her honor by the Irish pioneer priest, Fr. John Therry who arrived in Sydney in 1820 and assumed responsibility for the planning and initial construction of the Cathedral.
Mother and virgin, she is the Patroness of Australia, under the title “Help of Christians.” Under the title of ‘Our Lady of the Southern Cross’ she is patron of the Australian Diocese of Toowoomba and of WYD08.
The title of ‘Southern Cross’ derives from the constellation of stars seen only from the southern hemisphere. Mary is the Help of Christians as she leads all people to her Son. She is our help and our advocate.
Artist Paul Newton shares about his painting -
“She is totally focused upon him and holds him affectionately to herself,” …… “At the same time she holds him so as to face us, the viewers, as if presenting or giving him to us.
“I wanted to suggest in Mary’s demeanour serenity and great humility, not drawing attention to herself but rather to her son.
God first entered the world through Mary, who is ‘full of grace’ (Luke 1:28), when Jesus was born, and Jesus performed his first public miracle at her prodding. She was centrally present when the Spirit was poured out upon the nascent Church at Pentecost, fulfilling the promise ‘you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses’ (Acts 1:8). She teaches us how to allow God to be poured out upon the world through us, to ‘magnify’ Him (c.f. Luke 1:46-55), so that He can be seen, known, loved and worshipped.
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Act of Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary
O Mary Help of Christians, Patroness of Australia, Mother of Mercy, Queen of Heaven and earth, refuge of sinners, we consecrate ourselves to thine Immaculate Heart.
To thee we consecrate our country, our families, our hearts, our souls and all that we have.
And in order that this consecration may be truly effective and lasting, we renew today the promise of our Baptism and Confmnation; we undertake to live as good Christians -faithful to God, the Church and the Holy Father. We desire to pray the Rosary, partake in the Holy Eucharist, attach special importance to the first Saturday of the month and work for the conversion of sinners.
Furthermore we promise, O most holy Virgin, that we will zealously spread devotion to thee, so that through our consecration to thine Immaculate Heart and through thine own intercession, the coming of the Kingdom of Christ in the world may be hastened. Amen.
With ecclesiastical approval.
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Something About Mary is being hosted by JMJ at Totus Tuus Family
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“I am the bread of life.
He who comes to me will never go hungry
and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.” John 6:35
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Praise God for the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
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Praise God for his protection and avoiding a head-on collision at a busy intersection.
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Praise God for Holy Hour at St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
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Praise God for my cousin who has been helping me with all the difficult bits that need need doing in the garage.
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Praise God for yummy chocolate comfort food.
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Take a few moments to give thanks to God…
Praise is hosted by Jennifer at My Chocolate Heart. Come and join us.
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She touches our hearts and loves us dearly as our Heavenly Mother. Praying the Rosary is a powerful tool that Mary has handed to us. Here are some thoughts from young adults who love to pray the Rosary.
Mary Our Mother, Queen of Peace
Pray for Us.
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Something About Mary is being hosted by JMJ at Totus Tuus Family
Do visit to find out more and join in with us.
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FOR TODAY…
Outside my window…
… there is a glorious bue sky backdrop to our cherry blossom tree which has almost shed all it leaves …. the final stretch of autumn before winter sets in.
I am thinking…
… about yesterday’s prayer meeting and pondering on the teaching. It was a beautiful word from the Lord on the Sacrament of Penance.
I am thankful for…
… Our Blessed Mother’s intercession to help me update 12 months worth of bookkeeping…… don’t ask but I guess it’s called procrastination. I did it all in one week so I know it had to be divine intervention that helped me through it. It’s amazing how we are helped and encouraged when we plead for mercy and help.
From the learning rooms…
… Patience. We are tested continually but this test has been ongoing for three years.
From the kitchen…
… nothing - not even coffee perculating.
I am wearing…
… navy track pants and pink top.
I am creating…
… some new blog posts.
I am praying for…
Conscience and Protecting Life. It was Respect Life Sunday yesterday but the prayers can continue daily. I’m also praying for our Holy Father.
I am reading…
… a little booklet - CONFESSION It’s Fruitful Practice
I am hoping…
… the shelving will get installed in our garage this weekend and not get put off yet again.
I am hearing…
… my nephew & niece squealing and making a general racket outside … I’m just waiting for my sister or brother-in-law to come pick them up.
Around the house…
… the kitchen is a disaster area & needs a good tidy & clean.
One of my favourite things...
… photographing roses.
A few plans for the rest of the week:
Shopping for an anniversary gift for a friend; Heading off to Ballarat for the day tomorrow; a doctors appointment Wed morning; organise the next lot of paerwork ready to enter.
Here is a picture thought I am sharing…
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If you would like to join in, please visit Peggy, who hosts The Simple Woman’s Daybook, and also check out other Daybook entries.
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Today is Defending Conscience and Protecting Life Sunday.
The following prayer is Published by the Respect Life Office
Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne.
Please join us in prayer ….
Heavenly Father, Source of all life,
we know that even in our darkest moments
you are with us.
We pray that you will give us
new life and renewed courage
so people of life will continue to grow in love.
Awaken in us all
a new reverence and respect for all life,
especially for those yet to be born into the world.
Help us to encourage and support
all Mothers and Fathers,
particularly those facing difficult pregnancies.
Move the hearts of all our politicians to protect
the weakest and most defenceless entrusted
to their care, especially unborn children.
Guide and protect all those in the caring professions;
grant them your wisdom and peace
as we work together with all people of good will
to build a new civilisation of truth and love.
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When Jesus saw his mother,
and the disciple whom he loved standing near,
he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!”
Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!”
And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.
Gospel of John 19:26-27
I love this passage of scripture. Here is our Lord, in excruciating pain while on the cross - He does not focus on His suffering but on the needs of others. Jesus looks after the needs of the beloved disciple John and of His Mother…… but this moment is not only for the two standing at the foot of the cross but for all disciples - and it is at this moment that Mary becomes mother of all disciples of Jesus….. she is Our Mother too.
Isn’t it wonderful that here on Mother’s Day, we too as mothers, can turn to our Lovely Lady of love and mercy and ask her to intercede for us for our needs and the needs of all her children on earth.
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Something About Mary is being hosted by JMJ at Totus Tuus Family
Do visit to find out more and join in with us.
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