Book Marks: New releases on gardening, military moms, and a parent's death

As Lent continues, give some time for reflection with these new releases:

March 2015

Be Safe, Love Mom: A Military Mom’s Stories of Courage, Comfort, and Surviving Life on the Home Front

By Elaine Lowry Brye

An “Army brat” turned military wife turned military mom of four officers, Elaine Lowry Brye knows the ins and outs of military life. She especially knows the emotions that come with it: pride, worry, fear, anger, hope, and love to name a few. Be Safe, Love Mom (PublicAffairs, 2015) tells of the faith that helped her endure the difficult journey of having children in uniform and gives advice to families in similar situations.
 

A Catholic Gardener’s Spiritual Almanac: Cultivating Your Faith throughout the Year

By Margaret Rose Realy

Grow your garden and your faith simultaneously with Margaret Rose Realy’s book, A Catholic Gardener’s Spiritual Almanac (Ave Maria, 2015). As a master gardener and retreat leader, Realy has tips for growing food and flowers and provides meditations, scriptures, and stories of saints who have a connection to gardening. This devotional will bloom your spiritual side, whether you’re an amateur or pro.
 

Easter Stories: Classic Tales for the Holy Season

Compiled by Miriam LeBlanc

The heart of Easter can be found in the pages of this collection of read-aloud tales, Easter Stories (Plough, 2015). Step inside the works of well-known authors such as C.S. Lewis, Leo Tolstoy, Oscar Wilde, and others, as they explore the true meaning of the Easter season. Short and spiritual, these stories are perfect to be read again and again.
 

Sacred Silence: Daily Meditations for Lent

By Phyllis Zagano

Silence, stillness, and detachment are the focus of Phyllis Zagano’s Lenten meditations book, Sacred Silence (Franciscan Media, 2014). These daily reflections were written to help navigate us through the busyness of everyday life. With a scripture reading, a quote, a meditation, and a prayer for each day, every day of Lent can be more significant in only a few minutes.
 

A Parent’s Death: A Biblical and Spiritual Companion

By Margaret Nutting Ralph

There are many spiritual lessons to learn through the difficult times after a parent passes and during his or her decline. In A Parent’s Death (Rowman & Littlefield, 2015), Margaret Nutting Ralph offers hope and comfort through reflections on her personal experiences and her discussions on the meaning of death in the Christian tradition. This book is a great companion to all who accompany those who are dying.

Image: Illustration by Angela Cox