Two Hearts

When I was picking up some gifts to put in the kid's baskets, I stopped by the Catholic store called "Two Hearts" in Plano. The lady there is so sweet and gave me a free book last time. I asked her if she carried the new Pope John Paul II book, and she gave me this paperback copy for a $6 donation for shipping!

I also finally got this prayer/grace di that they didn't have last time.

Then I picked up some books for the kids--I was surprised that Brother Francis (dvds they like) company is based in Mckinnney right down the street!
I have lots of books to read nightly...but it's cutting into my sleeptime and I am getting over a cold :(

We also started the Divine Mercy Novena which ends on Divine Mercy sunday. It consists of certain prayers (using a rosary) that are for specific groups each day. I was very affected by St Faustina's diary (took a year to finish!) and I have faith in the prayers Jesus taught her to pray. The biggest change in perspective from reading her diary, was the power of inner suffering (and outer too..) and the invisible power of prayer. Denying yourself, not defending yourself. Which is hard for me, as I am naturally kind of defensive. The invisible power of uniting pain/anguish with Jesus' pain on the cross.
 I have also been trying this new prayer, to consecrate myself to Jesus through Mary, but I know I am not doing it with all my soul. Honestly, having music back after so long, makes me appreciate different things more. I mean, I feel more focused in prayer and in my love and gratitude for all my blessings. It's always frustrating how difficult the devil can make a simple thing like true prayer, but I know I need to work on being more devoted and less distracted.

•    Anyway, I already know I will be as inspired and uplifted learning about (now Saint) John Paul as I was with St Faustina, whose devotion to Divine Mercy was partially facilitated by Pope John Paul. I urge everyone to read both books, and contemplate Jesus crucial message of Divine Mercy.