If you haven't already heard it, brace yourself. "So, what are YOU giving up for Lent?" I guess it's time to give up Dr Pepper and Facebook, right? Maybe, but hear me out. There are plenty of well-meaning blog posts and folks sharing what they're giving up for Lent - 40 bags for 40 days, a social media fast, television, fried foods, excessive spending - and the list goes on. Been there, done that. As a wise priest recently shared, "Sometimes the ...

A little over two years ago, I got serious about taking better photos of my kids. Not just more, but better. And not just better, but ones that captured the day-to-day life of a big and wide family. Thanks, Kyle. Sometimes the moment presents itself and you just have to take a photo. Exhibits A, B and C. They're a little out of focus and not 100% perfect, but boy do they capture her personality. There may be something about Mary, ...

Every two years, Texas 4-H spreads the good news of Agrilife extension and the 4-H program at "Texas 4-H Day at the Capitol." Because the Texas legislature is only in session every two years, it's a big deal for all our 4-Hers! Way back in the day, I served as a legislative page. So, when this special 4-H day rolls around, I typically give our representative's office a call to see if they have any page slots open for one ...

As the kids get older, it's getting trickier to find "cool" birthday party ideas, especially when teenagers are involved. At the end of last summer, John Paul really got into cards and card tricks. So much so that he's up to 85 card tricks he's mastered and some he's made up himself. I know. At school lunch, several guys play cards and they've got quite the ring going. {God bless their teacher} So, when we mentioned the possibility of a poker ...

Raise a ruler and pull up your knee socks if you're excited that it's National Catholic Schools week. This weekend, the Diocese of Austin held one kick-tail dinner, benefiting all our 22 Catholic schools. Our keynote was Cardinal Dolan and he did not disappoint. There was something - okay, lots of things - he said that really hit me in the heart. Namely? That he asks every introduction of him to begin with his name, his family and his education at ...

Make that TWO teenagers in the house. That was fast. John Paul is officially 13 today and y'all know what that means. Cue the birthday letter. And this time, to my teenage son. For fun, I looked back at Will's 13th letter and I had to smile. God love the internet. Now I know where Gianna gets her curls. All the heart-eyed emjois on this one. Dear John Paul, As I stood in our kitchen last night, watching you play ...