Silence...

I have had the opportunity to enjoy some extended periods of silence these days. It's really been a blessing since, I think because of the end-of-summer and the upcoming trip, my kids have been in super-hyper mode (are there any little kids who are quiet? I would like to see that).

- I'm not a morning person but, for the past 30 days I have been getting up at 6:30. The peace at that time of day is lovely here. Usually there are a few boys wandering around but, due to the extra activity these days, they are actually sleeping in. Blessing! I have 15 minutes to myself to slowly wake up and get ready for the day (can't you tell I have a 5-minute beauty regimen? ). Then, DH and I read our reflection and prayers to prepare for our consecration on Thursday. The peace and silence of this process has been amazing. I still fall into anxious times but I know that they are much less then they would have been.

- DH has also been generous enough to let me sneak out in the morning for 8 AM Mass this week. It is truly a joy to sit and reflect on the readings and prayers. It's only in that type of situation that I realize how very loud it can be here. Today, one of the prayers of the faithful was for "those who suffer from panic attacks and anxiety". I do love when the Holy Spirit speaks directly to me and I'm actually there and attentive enough to hear.

- My car radio died about two weeks ago. It's not just a radio. I may have mentioned before, it's my traveling therapy. I have satellite radio (thus, EWTN, Catholic Channel and 80's on 8) and the kids have video when they travel. So, when it went, we were all fairly grief-stricken. I have a feeling, though, that it's the Holy Spirit's way of preparing us for hours on a plane and hours in a car and hours at home with no visual (and little auditory) stimulation. It's been kind of nice listening to the kids sing their own songs or tell jokes or even fight - so different from the silent, staring creatures that often occupy the back seats.

Now, since I should be packing, I will leave you with a few days of silence. If you think of it, please pray for us on our pilgrimage. Ask the Blessed Mother and the Holy Spirit to journey with us and lead us safely to our destination then home again. We will be praying for all of you and I look forward to telling you all the stories upon our return.

God bless :0)