Family All Star Saints

St. Cecilia
 Fun fact: Chris and I both loved this lovely Saint and visited her Basilica when we were in Rome during our study abroad program in Europe.  She is my confirmation Saint and we chose this as Kayla's middle name.  Patron saint of music.

St. John Mary Vianney
 Fun fact: He was often known to hear confessions for over 16 hours a day! He clearly knew the value of the Sacrament.  He is Chris' confirmation Saint and the patron Saint of priests.

St. Rose of Lima
 Fun fact: Her real name was actually Isabel but she was called Rose because of her great beauty.  She was the first Saint of the Americas and I've always been a fan of my namesake Saint.  Sophie and my goddaughter/niece (whose due date was near my birthday) share my middle name making it even more special.

St. Jane Frances de Chantal
 Fun fact: She was happily married with children, but later became a nun after being widowed.  Her spiritual director was St. Francis de Sales.  Ava Chantal was named after her.

St. Anne
 Fun fact:  She was the mother of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the grandmother of Jesus.  We all know grandparents have an amazing role, but WOW, she takes the cake.  She is a namesake for Elise along with Our Lady. Chris and I were also married at my home parish of St. Anne's.

Blessed Laura Vicuna
 Fun fact: Laura offered herself to the Lord to bring about her mother's conversion.  She died on Jan 22 (which just so happens to be my birthday-something I found to be remarkably cool when I first learned about her in high school)

Honorable Mentions:

St. Francis of Assisi- "Preach the Gospel at all times.  If necessary, use words"
Chris and I visited Assisi together (with our school) and experienced Francis' life in such a real way.  St. Clare of Assisi is also a pretty amazing Saint to check out.

St. Therese of Lisieux - "My whole strength lies in prayer and sacrifice, these are my invincible arms; they can move hearts far better than words, I know it by experience."  Ava was even born on The Little Flower's feast day.

St. Maximilian Kolbe- "Never be afraid of loving the Blessed Virgin too much.  You can never love her more than Jesus did."  We visited his cell when we went to Auschwitz.  There are just no words for a place like that or the beautiful sacrifice he made in giving his life for another.

St. Faustina Kowalska- "I have found that the greatest power is hidden patience.  I see that patience always leads to victory, although not immediately; but that victory will become manifest after many years. Patience is linked to meekness."  The Chaplet of Divine Mercy is one of my favorite prayers to aide in meditation on Christ's passion.

St. Dominic- Dominic was given the Rosary by Our Lady.  What a powerful weapon; but only if we wield it.