fossi favorites: summer 2016

As the summer fades to fall, I thought I would do a seasonal wrap up of some of my favorite things our family has enjoyed over the past few months.  I don't have the stamina to make this a weekly thing, so it will probably be a lengthy series that happens a couple times a year.  I genuinely love hearing what other people are reading, wearing, watching...so without further ado, here's some of my summertime picks. 

what i'm reading

Below is a brief account of the novels I've read -- no analysis or anything, just a simple recommendation! 

Silence by Shusaku Endo // This novel is intense in the best way.  It details a story about two priests called to secretly minister to 17th century Japanese Catholics, despite the fact the faith is banned in Japan.  Anyone found practicing Christianity in the country will face a gruesome death.  The priests and faithful Christians must choose -- will it be martyrdom or apostasy?  One of the most thought provoking and spiritually challenging books I've read in a while. P.S. There is a forward by Martin Scorsese that is worth your time! 

The Nightingale by Kristen Hannah // I read the Nightingale after two friends randomly told me to read this novel on the same day, so I took it as a sign to pick up a copy.  It was a quick read and a captivating story, and I loved that it was set in WWII France.  However, despite all the 5 star reviews online, I thought it was just OK.  After I put it down, I just couldn't escape the feeling that something was missing.  It was entertaining, but overall, it just wasn't my style.  If you like historical romance-type genres then I think you'll find it compelling! 

Kristen Lavransdatter by Sigrid Undset // Wow. Just wow.  It is perfect.  Read it.  Read all the reviews that would do a much better job than me at explaining how beautiful this novel is.  A hidden gem of literature, and I think, it is a must read for any Catholic.  Although, if you are a busy mom of little ones make sure you buy the modern translation by Nunnally because I have a beautiful vintage copy from the 40's and the language is a bit difficult for my frantic mom-brain to concentrate on.  But read it.  And then let's move to Norway. 

Lord of the World by Robert Hugh Benson // Brad & I listened to this together on audiobook, and it peaked our interest because we heard that it's a favorite book of Pope Francis himself.  It is a dystopian novel written in the early 1900's but eerily reflective of our modern day.  If you enjoy Catholic fiction or dystopian novels, add this one to your list. 

Death Comes for the Archbishop by Willa Cather // This is what I'm currently reading and really enjoying it so far.  Which is super surprising because I really didn't like My Antonia :).  But I can tell immediately that this one is different in the best way.  I'm just in love with the way she utilizes the landscape in this novel! It is like reading a painting. She makes me want to drop everything and hop on a plane to Santa Fe.  At this rate it might quickly jump onto my favorite book list. 

for the body

- The Balanced Life Sisterhood membership // If you know me, you know that I'm a die-hard Tracy Anderson fan.  You can make fun of me for that but whatever I love Tracy.  I've been doing her work outs since high school...her workouts are intense, and they're deff not for everyone, but you get results super quick (and it's fun!). But lately I've needed to give Tracy a break (I still love you Tracy, don't worry, it's not goodbye forever).  I've been doing pilates and pure barre for the last few months and I'm really enjoying my workouts.  I joined The Balanced Life community because Robin's gentle approach is just what I need for my state in life.  Not to mention, I love her "grace over guilt" mentality... Her workouts are doable for a busy mama yet effective and - dare I say it -relaxing.  I look forward to my workouts everyday! 

- This recipe has been on my weekly menu.  It's good paired with just about anything and the mint adds such a refreshing touch.  I usually sub quinoa for cauliflower rice and sometimes add an avocado if I have a ripe one on hand.  

- A Whole 30 compliant tomato basil soup.  A perfect summer soup! It's so creamy, you won't believe it's dairy free. 

- Blue Apron membership // I recently tried blue apron as a little family experiment and it was so much fun!  The recipes we tried were a hit. I LOVED that I didn't have to think about what was for dinner or meal plan -- the meals we picked were all perfectly proportioned, surprisingly healthy, and easy to prepare.  I may do a separate blog post on our experience with this service incase any of you are interested in signing up! Overall, it was a fun departure from my regular recurring meals.

for the soul

- this talk by Fr. John Riccardo on the Spiritual Life of the Family.  I've listened to it 3 times already...it might even have inspired a future blog post.

- Fr. Thomas DuBay has been rocking my world. I read Prayer Primer and now I'm about 3/4 of the way through Fire Within.  These are books that have sat on my shelf since college and I've tried so hard to get through, but never felt like I was ready to tackle DuBay.  Brad recently read them and basically forced me to read them too so we could talk about it.  And y'all....it's so intense. (In a good, good way).  I can't recommend those two books enough if you're serious about advancing in the spiritual life.  

- And to accompany my DuBay readings, I've also been listening to Interior Castle on audio book.  There are no words for the greatness of St. Teresa of Avila's writings.  Well, there are a lot of words, but I'm sure DuBay has said them all so I'm just gonna leave it at that. 

what i'm watching (with glass of wine in hand)

Having a baby changes things.  Like going out for date nights on a regular basis...so Brad and I have a lot of stay-at-home pizza, wine, and a movie dates.  

Marie's Story // This is a captivating film (based on a true story!) that captures the beauty of humanity.  Marie's Story revolves around two French women: Sister Marguerite and her pupil, Marie, who is deaf and blind.  Where the world rejects Marie for her differences, Sister Marguerite simply recognizes her beauty.  She sees Marie through Divine eyes, loving and teaching her with a gentleness that showcases her dignity.  Just warning you...because this film is told with such depth and tenderness, you will probably cry your eyes out.  You've been warned!  One more thing: another favorite aspect about this film is the cinematography... The French scenery has stolen my heart...every frame is intentional, and there is not an ounce of wasted space.  A rare masterpiece.

Babette's Feast // After watching Babette's Feast for the first time, I am kicking myself for not watching it sooner.  It is a narrative  that dissects themes of family, sensuality, religious devotion, and austerity.  It speaks of all these things, but at it's core, it is deeply eucharistic.  Babette uses her training as a Parisian chef to produce a meal that entices all the senses -- a concept foreign to her Puritanical hosts.  The meal embodies the Gospel message - mainly, that God created this world out of love for us and should be celebrated, as long as those things point us back to Him.  But it also details the sacrifices one must make in order to create, and fully enjoy, such beauty.  Much like a crucified Christ, poor Babette gives of herself entirely to produce this magnificent meal.  The symbolism in Babette's Feast left me pondering some deep themes so only watch it if you're in the mood to have your world rocked. 

Downton Abbey SEASON 6 FINALLY ON AMAZON //  You may have heard of a little show called Downton Abbey.  I was *very* patient and waited until the last season came out on Amazon Prime because I somehow missed the entire series when it aired.  I sure will miss the world of Downton, but overall I'm happy with the ending.  

War & Peace //  Brad is a fan of Russian literature, so we watched this mini-series over the course of a few weeks of Tolstoy's adaptation.  It was beautifully executed -- the acting, costumes, sets, and cinematography were all breathtaking.  Highly highly recommend! And the darling Lily James plays Natasha, which for me is a plus. 

BRITISH BAKE OFF SHOW // Ok, so Brad didn't watch this one with me.  But I am addicted to this show!  It is so much fun to watch and I actually learn a few things from each episode. It turns me into a baking machine. I get into these baking zones where I need to make everything from scratch and I pretend to be a contestant waiting to be judged by Mary Barry.  Who knows if my baking has actually improved, but watching the bake off puts a smile on my face every time. 

You can find these shows either on Netflix or Amazon Prime if you're interested in watching.  As you can see we're a little bit obsessed with British people shows. Anything y'all have been watching recently and enjoyed?  We are always looking for something new to watch together. And to prove to you that we aren't as high cultured as it appears, Parks and Rec is probably our favorite show ever.  We're contemplating watching the entire season again for like the 100th time...it somehow never gets old for us! 

what i'm wearing

These shoes // I'm so picky when it comes to shoes and I rarely buy anything new unless I have to.  They have to be comfortable, stylish, and versatile; do you know how difficult that is to find?!  My mom came to town and forced me to get new sandals because my old ones were falling apart (literally...I have tape on them...).  I got these in recently and I think I've found my new favorite summer shoe.  Rejoice!

This dress has been on repeat // this is from a sweet company that makes ethically made dresses (and just launched a nursing friendly line called "latch").  It is the most comfortable thing to wear, and makes me feel good when I have it on.  I think this particular dress is out of stock, but be on the look out for more because she launches new styles each season. 

I love adding this Madewell bandana to an otherwise simple outfit. Still don't think I can really pull it off, but it's fun to wear so I'm gonna pretend to rock it anyway. 

pier's picks 

Books are his FAVORITE.  Honestly, they are the only things that keep him entertained (well, besides Daniel Tiger.  Can I tell you much I. LOVE. Daniel Tiger.).  His current picks are this book and this book.  He loves pointing to all the pictures and asking me what each thing on the page is. Right now he can clearly say "star", "bubbles", "flowers", "banana", "book", and "blue".  I catch him reading to himself and delicately turning each individual page.  It is the absolute sweetest.  

My mom recently bought him a shape puzzle and he is obsessed.  His current interest is shapes and colors and it's been so fun teaching him.  In case you're wondering, his favorite shape is the star...if a star is anywhere in his vicinity, the other shapes don't stand a chance. 

He's also loving this stacking toy by Green Toys and these French wooden blocks. Also this isn't a toy, but he loves flowers.  After books, I think they are his all time favorite. 

That's all I got!  Hope y'all are enjoying the rest of your summer weather.  

thank you Jesus for this day, my screaming child, and light up toys

My son hates his carseat.  I don't use that term lightly.  Pretty much since the day we brought him home from the hospital, Pier has fought me 98% of the time when I buckle him in.  This Monday morning was a particularly epic battle.  It consisted of kicking mama in the face, back arching, and snot-bubble-crying. It was 60 degrees outside and I was sweating.  It was very dramatic.

To think, it wasn't even 8 a.m. and I was all ready for my 5 p.m. glass of wine...don't you love Mondays? As I started driving, the screaming started to escalate and I knew I had to act fast if I didn't want a migraine before noon, so I began to fumble around the car looking for something -- anything -- that might appease my child.

Then I found it.  The toy that will make all my carseat problems disappear.  It was a gift from my sweet sister-in-law -- a play cell phone that lights up and makes all sorts of noise (the only toy we have of its kind).  I threw it back there and within seconds the crying stopped, immediately distracted by this lighty-up toy.  I took a deep breath and prayed this prayer: 

"Thank you Jesus for this day.  Thank you Jesus for my screaming child.  And thank you Jesus for light up toys." 
 

After this simple prayer of thanksgiving, I thought about something.  What about all the times that I've fought God the way my son fights me when I'm just trying to look out for his well being?  How many times have I fought God kicking and screaming when I'm doing something I don't want to do?  My next prayer consisted of being sorry for all the times I was difficult when God was trying to put me in my carseat.  I am his child after all, and children don't always do what they're told, nor do they fully understand the rules their parents set in place for their protection.  

Being receptive to God's will isn't always easy.  As Christians, we trust that Christ is our Divine Father, loving us more than our limited human understanding can comprehend.  He wants what is best for us.  "Best" meaning He wants us to reach the highest level of spiritual growth so that we may live full, beautiful lives that align with His design for creation.  And sometimes that requires a bit of self-denial, humility, and yes, suffering.  When things get hard, when things are out of our control, when life happens....what do we do?  We complain.  We want to give up.  We blame God.  How much easier would it be if instead of kicking and screaming, we trusted.  We trusted in His mercy, His forgiveness, and His encompassing love.  

If you think about it, what is the purpose of a carseat?  To keep you safe from physical harm. When riding in our metaphorical carseat, Jesus wants to keep us safe from spiritual harm.  The difficulties that cause us to kick and scream are for our betterment.  If everything were easy then we can't grow!  The struggles in life help us learn that we can't rely on our own strength.  We need God.  If we are vigilant in prayer, complete our daily duties with cheerful charity, and give thanks for the small crosses in our lives, the hard things don't seem so hard anymore.  And just as my son was distracted by a lighty-up toy, we're distracted by His Divine Light and we forget about what we were kicking and screaming about in the first place.  

Pier teaches me something about God every day.  Today it was as simple as putting a screaming baby in his carseat.  I'm grateful for this little boy, even in the difficult moments, because he surely softens my hardened heart.  Please know that I'm praying for all who read these words that the Lord may touch your lives today.  Have a beautiful week!

what I wore Sunday

Today's post is a little out of my comfort zone.  A few sweet friends have asked me to write about my favorite clothes and where I shop, so I thought I would oblige and post an outfit every now and then.  Honestly, this kinda makes me nervous because 1.) I am not a fashion blogger, nor do I claim to know anything about anything in the fashion world and 2.) I feel like there are WAY cooler people who could do a much better job than me at something like this.  But I also understand where they are coming from -- I too love to see what people are wearing.  It's fun! And it's nice to affirm how other women wear their clothes and see how they celebrate their own personal style.

For me, I simply buy what I think fits my style best and what is mom-friendly.  Then I try (key word try) not to compare myself to other people, which is something I will forever be working on.  In three words, I think my style is simple, practical, and comfortable.  I like neutrals, but I'm a sucker for anything in a shade of blue or a vintage floral print.  My celebrity style crushes are Emma Watson, Zooey Dechanel, Taylor Swift circa 2012, and Emma Stone.  I shop mostly at Madewell (usually via places like Thred Up, eBay, or end-of-season sales), but also like pieces from Target, Loft, and Old Navy, while supporting ethical shops when I can.  And I really love buying vintage dresses from Etsy. 

Anyway, I'm titling this series as "what I wore Sunday" because Sundays are usually the for sure day of the week that I have a well thought-out outfit (mass day!).  I also love seeing how other bloggers incorporate their Sunday best into their blogs, so without further ado....Here's my first look:

My shirt is an old one from Old Navy (from MIDDLE SCHOOL believe it or not...).  The sweater is also old (cough cough high school) from Banana Republic.  My skirt is from this UK store, which I bought last year on major sale when I was super pregnant with Pier.  Here is a similar shirt, sweater, and skirt. 

And because what I wear on my body is not as important as the state of my soul, I want to end on this verse from today's readings:

Endure your trials as “discipline”; God treats you as sons. 
For what “son” is there whom his father does not discipline?
At the time, all discipline seems a cause not for joy but for pain,
yet later it brings the peaceful fruit of righteousness
to those who are trained by it.  So strengthen your drooping hands and your weak knees. 
Make straight paths for your feet, that what is lame may not be disjointed but healed.

HEB 12:11-13

Happy Sunday friends!

bradley turns 28!

Happy Birthday Brad!  I wish y'all knew how much I love this man.  He is the most generous, hard working, thoughtful, and faithful person I know.  He sees beyond barriers and greets each person he encounters with patience, kindness, and humility.   He's the type of person who brings his wife flowers "just because" after working for 20+ shift.  He takes care of his family first before even thinking of himself.   I'm privileged to share my life with him and I can tell you for a fact that he is a genuine, virtuous soul.   He still gives me butterflies and makes me laugh harder than anyone else can! 

I'm in awe at how much Brad loves our family.  He is a selfless father who brings constant joy to our household.  Pier loves his daddy so much...it makes me a little emotional watching them play together.  It's such a gift to know that Pier has someone like Brad to look up to as a role model and father.  

Now for the birthday fun!  So, I really love celebrating birthdays for the people I love...I tend to go a bit overboard with all the festivities.  It's the perfect excuse to eat treats and do fun things all week long right?! Right. I made a simple cake and Pier helped me decorate ;)...he loved singing to daddy and helping him blow out the candles! 

Brad has been working a lot lately, so we haven't be able to spend one on one time together.  My mom has been in town the past week which gave us the opportunity to take not one but TWO date nights.  What can I say? We're wild.

We ate here for a sweet dinner last night.  How adorable is this place?!  It's a market/garden/restaurant in the Broad Ripple neighborhood in Indy.  Good conversation over some locally grown (and delicious) food -- there's nothing better.  

Birthday Date #2 consisted of seeing a movie at a DRIVE-IN THEATRE! Did you know those places still exist?  Because I didn't! And when I found out about it I just had to go.  Once you have kids going to the movies is a rarity so we have to make it count you know?  Plus, Brad would rather do a fun activity than enjoy a fancy meal at a restaurant, so that's what we did.  I picked up pizzas and a bottle of wine and left over birthday cake.  Then I set up the back of our car for an optimal movie viewing experience and had a little picnic. 

It rained so hard before we got there, but thankfully it stopped when we arrived.  As the sun was going down, there was the most beautiful rainbow left in the sky.  It was like God wanted to give Brad a present for his birthday :)!  

August is not the best month for movies so our options were limited, but we settled on Pete's Dragon. Honestly I had no desire to see it, but after hearing a segment about it on NPR it peaked my interest.  I won't get into a film analysis or anything, but it was a beautiful movie about family, faith, trust, and innocence.  I think it was a bit theological as well, and I really recommend it if you're looking for a movie to watch at the end of summer.  Also the soundtrack was AMAZING.  

We missed Pier on Brad's birthday dates, but it was so nice to spend some quality time together.  Date nights are for reconnecting, laughing, day dreaming about the future, talking about the latest cute thing Pier is doing.  It was the perfect birthday celebration for my favorite person.  Happy birthday to you Brad the Dad...we love you so! And now I'll leave you with a Fossi Family Birthday selfie. 

month 12 | year 1

Well, I've avoided writing this post long enough.  I'm still in denial that he is ONE, but I guess I gotta finish the year strong and knock out this last month-by-month update. Month 12 has been an adventure.  Traveling, teething, ear infections, visitors, milestones -- life is movin fast and keeping us busy.  Pier has learned how to do some pretty fun stuff this month: clapping, pointing, waving, SPEAKING ACTUAL WORDS LIKE A PERSON, and just overall being super cute.  

Some of my favorite things he's up to this month:

• He's super shy!!! It's really sweet.  When we walk into a new place and someone tells him hi, he immediately puts his head on my shoulder and clams up.  It takes him a while to warm up to new faces and environments.  He's uncertain about anything unfamiliar!
   
• Maybe this is because he's been sick the last few weeks, but he is very cuddly right now.  He will play with his toys for a few minutes then crawl over to me, sit in my lap, nuzzle is head on my shoulder, and start sucking his thumb.  After a few minutes of that he'll look up at me, then give me the worlds biggest smile and go right back to playing!
   
• He's starting to point at things!  He will point to random objects and then look at us so that we can tell them what they are.  His favorite things to point out: lights, Jesus, the clock in our living room, Gertie the cat, and his ball.
   
• He started waving! It's so stinkin cute! He waves backwards, opening and closing his hand toward his face (if that makes sense?).  But he can wave to people on command.  It's the sweetest.
   
• We're working on a few words right now: Gertie, ball, clap, and Mama
   
• This isn't really a favorite thing, but he has started screaming (LOUDLY) and flailing and kicking when he doesn't get his way.  For example, if I'm not fast enough giving him the next bite of food, or if I won't let him crawl up to the alter during mass, or if I have to move him away from some type of dangerous things he fights me. Big time.
   
• He started clapping! And he is so proud of himself!  If I say "YAY!" enthusiastically he starts clapping his hands together and gives me a big grin.
   
• Speaking of grins, he's giving us the funniest smiles lately.  I call it his cheesin smiles because he squints his eyes, crinkles his nose, and smiles as big as he can.  They are hilarious! It makes my life!

I think books are his favorite toy.  When I put him down to play, he crawls straight to his book basket.  He flips each page and actually reads to himself!  His voice goes through the sweetest inflections and he points to the pictures on the pages.  He's in heaven when we go to the library! (Or when mama isn't looking and he gets to pull all of her books off the bookshelf)

He's eating a lot more solid food this month too.  His favorite foods right now are sweet potatoes, bananas, blueberries, raspberries, eggs, guacamole, bread, olives, and sliced turkey.  He also obsesses over Whole Foods as much as his mama does :).  Oops.

How are we doing on sleep?  Wellll it's hit or miss this month.  Sometimes he sleeps through the night, sometimes he doesn't.  He's been doing this really fun thing lately where he wakes up ready for the day at 4:30 and won't go back to sleep.  He's still taking two hour and a half naps a day, but he must have perfect sleeping conditions (black out curtains, white noise, sleepsack) or he won't sleep at all.  He doesn't even sleep in his car seat!

Andddd it's officially summer in Indiana! You bet I LOVE IT!  The weather during the warm months here is simply lovely.  You can actually go outside! And not die! This week it was in the 60s and 70s and that is simply unheard of during a Louisiana June.  We've been spending as much time outdoors as we are able...farmer's markets, picnics, park visits, long walks.  I try to take advantage of it while we can (because...winter..).

Another favorite outdoor activity: SWIMMING!  Except they were out of baby pools everywhere (literally), so I had to settle for a drink bucket.  Pier or Beer...you wouldn't even know the difference ;).

I feel like a repeat myself every month, but I just can't help but think that each new stage is my favorite....and then the next month comes and it's even MORE fun.  He is full of surprises, and brings me so much joy.  I hope you've enjoyed all of his monthly updates over the past year!  I've loved looking back on past month-by-month posts and seen how far we've come and how much he's grown.  But I this isn't the last Pier update, so stay tuned for more in the months to come.