I’m still trying to think of a daily thing to “give up.”

I have committed to reading Scripture daily (although I recognize that I should have *already* been doing this) and writing a prayer daily to/for Erwin and Lindsay for their upcoming wedding.

I will pray a rosary at least once a week.

In general, I’m working on cleaning the house and making it more hospitable to guests; hopefully, with the goal of having my parents over for dinner one night during Lent.

I know a lot of people are “unplugging” for Lent, but for me, the internet is one of the main ways in which I am connected to people, and I don’t think that isolation is what God is asking of me at this point. So while spending more time in prayer is on the list of things to focus on, I may actually be online *more*, especially for things like updating my blog with some insights or meditations that strike me as I am attempting to grow closer to God.

In trying to grow closer to God, I am reading “The Introduction to the Devout Life,” by St. Francis De Sales, “The Catechism of the Catholic Church,” and a few daily devotional guides to Lent (including the new one based on the teachings of Mother Teresa). This is in addition to my usual pile of religious/spiritual reading. 🙂

Above all, I think this Lent I am going to try to listen more to what the Lord is asking of me each day and during this time in particular, rather than try to “do Lent” on my own. 🙂