The giveaway is closed! If you are one of the two people who won copies of the book, an email will be wending its way to you shortly!
Thanks to all who entered, and look for a code here on the blog, soon, for purchasing Festivals of Faith at a discount!
The Reasonably Clean, Fairly Neat, and Comfortably Tidy House Corner
Solve the clothes clutter problem once and for all!
Well, one aspect of it.
Some people, and I am one of them, cannot immediately put certain articles of clothing away.
We can put dirty clothes in the hamper, if the hamper is handy. *
We often can put away clean clothes.
I can hang a clean skirt up with the best of them, but not at night when I am tired and ready to go to bed and don't want to rattle around disturbing my husband who has gone to bed before me.
What we have trouble with is, apart from not wanting to put the clean thing away right then, but much more fatally in the war against clutter, and to the point here, we just don't want to put away or throw in the hamper an article of clothing that seems ambiguously used and probably, maybe, not quite ready to be washed.
I have heard this syndrome described as the situation of someone who is actually hyper-organized, at least in theory, and against the evidence that the result is a mess. This person has so many categories in his brain for just how clean/worn/soiled/used this item is that he cannot commit to the binary system of clean/dirty.
The thought is something like, “Well, I just wore this t-shirt this morning but now have to change for an event but might get back to yard work later and why would I get out another t-shirt… ” and so on.
So the clothes get put on the chair. If there is no chair, they get thrown on the floor, simply because not perfectly clean trumps clean.
One “solution” I have seen, offered for clothes lying around, is so terrible, so wrong-headed, so misguided, that I am writing all this as a public service so you don't get caught up in the fraud, the compounding of the problem. The misbegotten idea is to have baskets in your closet (and of course this supposed remedy assumes that you have a big closet — check your privilege, Instagram guru!) for these items. “Not sure if you will wear something again? Put it in the basket!”
That won't work and is just a bad idea, because the whole point of leaving the item on the chair (even if the culprit is not fully aware that this is the whole point) is to air it and to keep it in view as a reminder to decide what to do with it. Putting such things in a sequestered basket is no solution — it would result either in not being followed as patently absurd, which it is, or in being followed and resulting in those items never being seen again (but moldering in darkness nonetheless).
Why am I breaking this down in this excruciating detail? Because it's a perennial problem, one that subverts all efforts to be neat and tidy in the bedroom; and the first step in solving this sort of problem, one that requires so much effort (not to mention nagging, self or otherwise) to overcome, is to figure out the reasons behind it!
If your approach to a problem fails, over and over and it just doesn't work, then it's your approach that needs addressing. (This is true for everything, from kids' behavior to kitchen cleanup to just… everything.)
The solution is easy, actually, once you decide to work with the mental process rather than resist it!
It involves one purchase, maybe two if you are dealing with men's suits. You can easily find these things second-hand.
The main one is a quilt rack. If you have a place to put your recently doffed articles, a place that is up off the floor, keeps them from excessive wrinkling, and allows them to be in view but still tidy, you will be winning. It's better than the chair, my previous, non-solution. One day I came across a quilt rack in my mother's room and realized that here was the key.
You can also put a quilt on it.
The other item is a men's suit rack. I wrote about it here. I remember my father's, which had a chair he could sit on while removing his trousers, and a neat hanger for airing the suit out. Note the place to put one's change and keys.
There really are valid reasons why we don't put certain articles of clothing away right at the moment of taking them off. If we have a firm purpose of addressing them pretty quickly (for example, the next morning as we are tidying up and making the bed), the quilt rack can alleviate the clutter issue. The clothes can air, decisions can be made, life can proceed!
*If you are a husband or have a husband who won't put dirty clothes in the hamper but throws them on the floor, the solution is to put the hamper (or a basket that will be emptied into a hamper eventually) right there where he throws them, as I describe here: My Husband Adds to the Mess.
Giveaway Corner!
Last week I wrote about this collection of St. John Henry Newman's sermons. It's just the sort of volume that can be held in your hand as you nurse the baby (unlike my go-to chunky volume of all his sermons) and take you through the liturgical year. If you are not familiar with this great spiritual mind, this book is the perfect introduction. Highly recommend! (In the US you can more easily get it here, but ordering from the Abbey helps them!)
The publisher is graciously offering to send three books to three winners of a giveaway!
Just leave a comment here to enter! I will close the giveaway on Thursday night!
St. Gregory Pocket Corner
Or should it be called the St. Gregory Corner Pocket??
Recently some ladies have been contacting me to see about starting or reviving a Pocket. (What is that? Go here — and here for FAQs).
The newest one is in St. Louis MO! If you are in the area, do check it out! The FB group is private but searchable, and the idea is to use it to meet in person. It is not a forum for discussion or place to advertise anything.
If you have an interest in doing this as well, look up yours (by area) on Facebook to see if there is one and if it's active. Contact me if there isn't or if it's languishing and we will get you started.
The main thing is to be somewhere (park, playground, pool, library, or other gathering place that is more or less public), say you will be there, and keep on being there until your people show up! It won't work for people to wait for others. Even if it means you'll be at the playground with just your kids for a few weeks, eventually some will join you! And then it might mean being at home crafting at a certain hour for a few weeks, until your core group shows up!
Having a book club or reading group — or just readings in common to share when you are doing other things, like standing at the swings or knitting — is a great idea. Here's my reading list to get you going.
By the way, there is no monetization in this for me — no swag, no lists, nothing. I'm trying to jump-start your community, that's all! I alone am left to tell you!!
Crafting Corner
Lately I've had a hard time picking up my crafts and working on them, but of course, I get so much satisfaction when I do.
Despite not having quite completed the baby cardi for Jaime's baby — it now needs to be steeked — I am starting on Natasha's…
And I am really trying to figure out what to do to get Suki and John's wedding quilt put together! My process is driving me crazy and I wish I would stop. It consists of making patches and then trying to pull them together. What is wrong with me! I need a plan beforehand! I think I'm losing it! Send help!!
Don't forget to enter your comment for a chance to win one of the St. John Henry Newman sermon books!
bits & pieces
- If you are interested in fine art, you may enjoy this site, which is dedicated to the work and observations of Carl Schmitt, American painter –he lived from 1889 to 1989. The most recent post recounts an article in the Washington Post of yore. “Carl Schmitt is doing things that are unique in America today.”
- Our readers know of my devotion to John Senior, the unknown impetus behind Catholic homeschooling and small Catholic schools that continue to be founded, against all odds. I base my educational approach largely on hiscon — wherever I speak of how we fulfill our role in forming our children's ability to learn, I am trying to convey his thought as best I can. Here is a lovely interview with his son, Andrew, who conveys in a short space the flavor of his father's temperament and spirit, it seems to me! Speaking of his father's educational philosophy, he says:
Knowledge begins in the senses, in the particular, and ends in the intellect, in the universal concept. But it is not so simple as connecting two things. Between the senses and the intellect, the memory and imagination, and the passions, are operative. This is why my father spent so much of his effort on trying to get people in touch with created reality, to fill their memory and imagination with things based on reality, and properly order their passions. Only then can the intellect do its proper work of abstraction…
… When we lived in Wyoming, I remember him becoming very upset trying to teach Chaucer. He discovered, in the story of Chanticleer, that the problem wasn’t the difficulties of Middle English, the problem was that none of the students knew anything about chickens.
- Funny how our modern reinforced concrete doesn't even last a hundred years, but Roman concrete is going strong: We Finally Know Why Ancient Roman Concrete Stood The Test of Time
from the archives
- Creativity goes beyond — Think that the devoted housewife isn't creative? Think again!
- Deirdre on how to use your daily planner to make time for your creative pursuits
liturgical living
follow us everywhere! share us with your friends!
My book, The Summa Domestica: Order and Wonder in Family Life is available now from Sophia Press! All the thoughts from this blog collected into three volumes, beautifully presented with illustrations from Deirdre, an index in each volume, and ribbons!
My “random thoughts no pictures” blog, Happy Despite Them — receive it by email if you like, or bookmark, so you don’t miss a thing!
My new podcast can be found on the Restoration of Christian Culture website (and you can find it where you listen to such things) — be sure to check out the other offerings there!
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We share pretty pictures: Auntie Leila’s Instagram, Rosie’s Instagram, Deirdre’s Instagram. Bridget’s Instagram.
Auntie Leila’s Facebook (you can just follow)
The boards of the others: Rosie’s Pinterest. Sukie’s Pinterest. Deirdre’s Pinterest. Habou’s Pinterest (you can still get a lot of inspiration here! and say a prayer for her!). Bridget’s Pinterest.
Murielle says
Here’s me entering the giveaway! Would love to win a copy!
Thank you, Auntie Leila! My mom actually had a quilt rack made for me and one for my sister, but I think mine is actually kicking around at my mom’s house because it just didn’t make sense to me to use it! Why have quilts hanging up gathering dust when you can just fold and stack with other blankets and extra pillows in the linen closet? But the laundry in-between makes perfect sense to me—I suffer from the overthinking it as well! Thanks!
Toni Graham says
Please enter me in the Newman book giveaway! Thank you!
Christine Smith says
It’s interesting that you say John Senior is the “unknown impetus behind Catholic homeschooling.” It’s my understanding that he was not a proponent of homeschooling, and thought it should be a last resort.
Leila says
Well, I think he would agree that for most, the last resort has been reached.
Whether he would approve or not, it is the case that many who have read his books have been led to create a family culture that simply cannot abide the school choices available for most.
(Keep in mind that I myself believe in schools, and in fact, the Church has taught that schools are an important part of the community. However, they require a culture of people who are at least morally sound, and we are not there — as I think he would agree!)
Donna Haskins says
Would love to win the book! Thank you for the blog and the giveaway!
Michelle Frey says
I actually totally needed the breakdown of why I don’t know what to do with my semi-used clothing… I have absolutely no room in my room, which is more of a closet, so I am determined to merely re-hang. I will sequester them slightly to one side and see if that helps!
Would love to win the giveaway.
Going back now to click on the links!
Leila says
The hooks-over-the-door method works super well also! Maybe that is the ticket?
Jo says
Yes, this is what my mother does. The hooks on my bedroom door are for my nightgown and robe, and mine and hubby’s bath towels. We have a small bedroom too with baby’s crib squeezed in. I just lay my clothes neatly on my bed if I have to make a wardrobe change during the day. If I don’t change back into them that same day then they usually become my outfit for the next day. They usually get put aside on a nightstand or something until the morning when it’s time for bed. I’m content with just making do for the time being.
Kelsey says
I would love to win a copy of this book! Cardinal Newman is a patron of our family.
Carl Schmitt is my husband’s great-grandfather – thanks for sharing his work.
I am grateful for your insight into this laundry issue, something I struggle with mightily as I am apparently married to a “hyper-organized” person 😉 The burden of giftedness…
Mary from NOLA says
I would be so very happy to have a copy of the book of St. John Henry Newman’s sermons. The pastor of my small parish frequently references that saint and I have developed an appreciation of his writings. Thank you and God bless.
Stephanie B says
My father was a doctor to support his farming habit. The “dumb butler” in the master BD held his office clothes should he need to tend to the farm before returning to the hospital, and vice versa. Often times that wooden fixture groaned under the weight of garments, but they were never on my mother’s floors.
Katy Presnell says
I like the idea of the quilt rack.
I can’t seem to find the comment button. Please consider this reply as my entry to win the Newman book.
Thank you
Jessie Dobbs says
Here’s my entry into the book giveaway! We use a laundry rack the way you use the quilt rack.
Therese says
I’d love to be entered for the giveaway. My husband and I have been learning more and more of St. John Henry Newman and named our son after him. He is wonderful! Thanks for all your advice. I just finished your last book in the Summa Domestica series a few weeks ago and know I will be returning to them often over the years. God bless!
Mrs. Badger says
Ooh, pick me! I added that volume to my wishlist after your previous mention of it. 🙂
I’ve had my eye on a few quilt racks at thrift stores and estate sales, and keep saying no to them… You are making me rethink. We definitely have a clothes on the chair/floor/foot of the bed problem. And it’s not just my husband, it’s me too. Now for where we would put the quilt rack in our little apartment…. Hmm…
I was just expressing to Mr. Badger that I seem to always be putting off my creative projects, in pursuit of keeping up with household chores. I told him I want to make time for those things. I do find that when I don’t make time for creativity, I still end up with stretches of my day that aren’t filled with chores; they just are filled with nothing else of consequence. I look at my phone. I watch tv. But when I make myself do something creative for 30 minutes, even if there are still dishes in the sink, I actually fill those spaces with something worthwhile, AND have more chutzpah when I go to do my chores. I realize this is really basic stuff as I write it out, you know, don’t-act-like-a-slave-in-your-own-home kind of stuff, but it’s a new approach for me who’s always been a bit of a perfectionist.
Adding all your links to my reading list. These look great.
Leila says
The real key is to spend just a little time setting up a project that can be picked up quickly here and there, with whatever 10 or 30 minutes one has. It’s the investment that pays off!
Amelia says
Another benefit to this busy mother of the book of 22 sermons is, well, I would be far likelier actually to persevere in it! It’s easy to get discouraged when reading a book slowly due to busyness. I do hope to get a copy one way or another, and thank you Leila for recommending it to us.
Just yesterday I switched my daily pile of laundry to sort from the hallway to my bedroom floor. The idea is that I should deal with it first thing after getting dressed in the morning, but that is not realistic these days, so the cat has been sleeping on it and getting my clothes furry! Clearly I should try something different and the racks are a delightful idea.
Karen Perez says
Please enter me in the Newman book giveaway!
Leah says
I appreciate the quilt rack – I’ve been looking for a secondhand blanket rack? Ladder? To handle the inevitable clutter of throw blankets in winter + young children. Im sure those would work well in the bedroom situation too.
I also loved Andrew’s note about education moving from senses to the abstract. Memoria Press and Rod and Staff have beautiful science curriculum modeling just that. How can we understand Western literature if we know nothing of seasons, weather, agriculture…..chickens? I’m happy to read that thought better articulated by him than I could manage!
Blessings on your week!
HM says
I was so excited when you showed us this book (a few?) weeks back. It’s on my list to get my hands on at some point!
And I love the quilt rack for not-“clean”-but-not-“dirty”/worn-but-not-ready-to-wash clothes. In my very small house, I don’t have free space for its footprint (also, my very little boys would likely climb it, topple, get hurt, and/or break such a thing). For the moment, hooks/racks on the back of the bedroom/closet door work for us to hang such clothes (as long as they’re not too wrinkle-prone). Not as pretty or tidy of a solution, for sure, though. I’m gonna keep the quilt rack idea in my head for if my house size grows, or at least when my little people do. ❤
Anna Lipinski says
I always enjoy a new book!
Our clothes hamper has a metal frame and 4 bags. For in between clothes that aren’t pjs, I flop them over one of the metal frame pieces. For pjs, they go on a chair in our closet.
Elizabeth says
I’ve been thinking about a solution for this clothes problem too—I’ve been thinking of hanging hooks on the wall behind the bedroom door. It would get clothes off the floor and allow them to air. Are there downsides to using hooks that I’m not seeing?
Alea says
I have a set of hooks in my closet for this purpose. The only downfall I’ve ever had is occasional “hook lumps” in the shoulders or neckline of a lightweight shirt. I like that it doesn’t take any floor space. Luckily my husband came pretrained in this method. 😆
Carol Kennedy says
We just recently built a new house and in all the closets I put wall hooks for just this purpose. The only place they aren’t working well is the master closet because they are all near the part of the closet where my husbands clothes are and so they are out of my immediate reach and also are all taken up by his stuff! I have a shelf near my clothes so I use that a lot. So I guess hooks need to go where you can reach them easiest while getting dressed/undressed?
Lisa G. says
This would be a most attractive solution! But I have no room for such an article. I hang something I’ve just taken off on the back of the chair in my room. Then, I’ve got one of those metal things that hook over the closet door that you can hang things on, and I only use that for once or twice worn items. Also, I might use different hangers, e.g., plastic vs. wire, or wind a piece of ribbon on a hanger of something I only should wear one more time. This method sort of evolved bit by bit but it works for me. 😀 (this is similar, but mine is much longer https://www.amazon.com/Spectrum-Diversified-75370-Stratford-Over-The-Door-Hanger-Holder-Chrome/dp/B000LNS0DK/ref=sr_1_11?crid=1OWWEGNB84Q64&keywords=back+of+the+closet+door+hanger&qid=1690053925&sprefix=back+of+the+closet+door+hanger%2Caps%2C78&sr=8-11)
Amy says
I’m now on the lookout for a quilt rack! Thank you always for your domestic vision and wisdom.
Jennifer says
I would like to enter the giveaway.
In case it’s helpful to anyone, my solution to half clean clothing is to rehang the item inside-out in my closet. It lets it air a little while also serving as a reminder that it must be washed after the next (even brief) wear. It also lets me be a little lazy — I don’t even have to turn it right side out when rehanging.
Mary Helen says
I like this idea!
Katherine Makowsky says
I would like to enter the giveaway!
Karen in SC says
Thanks for the opportunity for the book!
The clothes on the quilt rack would not work for me, because I like all things like worn clothes out of sight. But we use a shelf inside our bathroom closet to place folded clothes we plan to wear again. It’s open enough that I don’t worry about the clothes not getting a good air-out.
Raquel says
I know exactly the friend I would gift this to!
Lorelei says
Please enter me in the giveaway!
I don’t struggle with the clothes in the summer, since I live far enough south that stepping outside to shake a towel brings on a heavy sweat. They can pile up in winter, especially sweaters!
Karen Reep says
I’d love to win this book! Thanks for the opportunity! Thanks for sharing the Senior interview. It was great!
Emily says
Please enter me in the giveaway, thank you so much! I have a graduate degree from the University of Kansas. It was such a comfort and inspiration to me, while I was there, to think of John Senior having been there on campus.
Hannah Hilgendorf says
The quilt rack is a brilliant solution! We don’t have any room in our current situation, but I will keep that in mind for the future! Partially because another part of the problem is that certain times of the year, some nights are too warm for a quilt/coverlet, and some are cool enough to want one. So you make the bed with the coverlet on, then it gets kicked off in the night several nights in a row, so you get fed up with that and fold it up and put it on the one chair in the room (because there’s no space for a cedar chest of linens at the end of the bed, which would be the logical place to put it, as well as a nice tidy surface for tomorrow’s clothes to be resting…instead of also being on the chair). And then you can never sit in the chair because there’s a quilt and clothes on it… Maybe that’s a problem nobody else has, but it’s real enough for us.
Thank you for sharing the bits and pieces! Some really lovely links this week!
Please enter me in the giveaway as well!
Mrs. Badger says
Haha, that is a familiar dilemma. I’m another one dealing with a small space, no cedar chest (but wanting one someday), and not being able to sit in the chair. 😂
Piper says
Would love to be entered in the giveaway! Thank you for the offer!
And I just love the wedding quilt. It looks great as you have it laid out! So cheerful and such lovely colors!
Caroline says
You had me at “nursing-friendly”! I’ve been looking for some solid spiritual reading and this collection looks lovely.
I tend to use the chair for half-worn clothes, but I can see the wisdom of the quilt rack! And it’s something I often come across in antique shops.
Katie says
Thank you for the clutter tip – it makes such sense. I have used a drying rack for that purpose, also, but it tends to be less stable…and needed all too often! And I like knowing I’m “hyperorganized” rather than messy – so much more encouraging (now what to do with the clutter of categories going on in my mind and spilling over onto my kitchen counter?). Thank you also for the special give away – John Henry Newman is one of my educational heroes. John and Suki’s quilt is beautiful – praying it comes together well for you.
Melissa D says
My husband has a valet stand. But it may need to go in another corner!
Would love the sermons. 🙂
Denise Renner says
Entering the contest, but also wanted to tell you how much I’ve enjoyed your podcasts. I like to put them on while I’m doing errands in the kitchen and it feels almost like we’re washing berries or snapping peas or sneaking chocolate together. More podcasts, please!
Cecilia says
I remember seeing something like the rack you mention in a British movie once and feeling like that would be the absolutely perfect solution to all my troubles. I scourged the internet just trying to find out what it was even called! Clothes-blanket-rack-stand? So close yet so far away! I found some similar objects, but nothing satisfied because the one in the movie looked so perfect and antique. I eventually lost the trail. Of course my clothes, especially cardigans and jackets, are still all over the chairs and dresser. I should keep trying now that you’ve brought it up again!
Mrs. Badger says
I see these from time to time being sold at estate sales and auctions. Perhaps check those!
Angela Fritz says
Entering the giveaway! I have the Senior book on Restoring Christian Culture that I bought years ago and have not read!! I am moving it up for my reading time!
Leah says
Thank you for the fabulous idea of the quilt rack; the one you have appears to be quite a sturdy one.
Arenda de Haan says
Entering the giveaway! 🙂
Kathleen L. says
Please enter me in the drawing for the lovely book of sermons by the great saint:)♥️. I often use a big sturdy rocking chair ( no longer used for wee ones) to hang my clothes or simply place a neat pile of folded clean clothes to put away or use the next day. Your wedding quilt looks lovely!
Cheryl says
Thank you for the chance to win!
I will be on the lookout for a quilt rack – that makes so much sense!!
I always leave the day’s clothes in a pile near my dresser, as one never knows if one will need to jump awake and dress in a hurry. Sometimes I will head to the garden early wearing yesterday’s clothes and then change later in the morning after a shower. But – the quilt rack would be much more civilized than a pile! Thank you!
Maureen says
I would love to win the Newman collection… I say as I sit here reading your blog while nursing the baby!
And thank you for the quilt rack recommendation. I will have to investigate if that might tidy up our room a wee bit!
Samantha Webb says
I’d like to enter the giveaway! I’m still nursing two sweet babes.
Maria says
Would love to win a copy! Thanks for sharing your wisdom!
Stacy says
This post made me lol. My husband has several categories of not quite dirty enough to be dirty clothes. I told him I refused to sort his jeans into piles of clean “work”, clean “has a hole but can be used for projects “, “very holey projects only”, etc. These are the type of people who can’t throw anything away, they can see a possible use for every empty plastic jar!
My 19 year old would love a copy of this book!
Leila says
Haha your comment made me LOL!
My husband recently made me mark his chinos with dots corresponding to their level of presentability!
But he puts everything back, no matter what. No. Matter. What.
Cassandra B. says
We have lots of Newman fans in this family so we would love to win a copy of this book. Thank you!
Lynn Osborne says
Would love to read this book! Thanks for the chance to win!
Cami says
I’m going to work more on weaving in creative time (pun intended) even though it seems there’s no time for it. My husband works 2 jobs and is working towards a masters in philosophy while I’m homeschooling 5 kids under 11. I’m not great at housework. I find all the things so very overwhelming. I have some health issues interfering too. But I’ve noticed on the occasion that I watercolor with my children, I am reminded that I have talent and that I rather enjoy it! And recently on my 40-something birthday, I sang a little karaoke in my living room whilst drinking Prosecco and it felt so satisfying. It had been quite long since I did something I enjoyed. I sort of rediscovered myself in a way. Anyway, somehow I must find time for these creative moments. Maybe I’ll try to crochet leg warmers for my budding ballerina.
Also, three cheers for JHN!
Donna says
That book looks wonderful!
And thank you for addressing that clothes issue – ugh! Letting clothes “air” when they’re not quite dirty but not actually clean really does keep the room from being tidy. And then that clutter attracts more clutter!
Thank you for the good idea.
Jessica H says
My husband and I had a good laugh about your clothes solution… when we were first married my husband put all his lightly worn clothes in the hamper, until I started asking him if they actually need to be washed. Now we both put back our slightly worn clothes, probably more than we should, since I sometimes pull things out of the closet and realize it should have been washed. Oops! Maybe an in-between place would be nice after all…. XD
Is there any way to get connected with a St Gregory’s Pocket without having a facebook? We’ve just moved back to the Phoenix area after two years abroad and I am home with my little one now. It would be a nice time to get connected with some other ladies if there is something going in this area, but we don’t use social media.
We would love a copy of the Newman sermons to read together. 🙂
7kidsinTX says
Please enter me in the drawing.
Thank you for all of the practical advice!
Laura O. says
The money quote for me:
“You can also put a quilt on it.”
😁
Kristen says
Thank you for the chance to win!
Julia says
My “rack” is the beam on the back of a loom that I inherited from my husband’s great-grandfather. Once, before I had multiple children, unused to weave fabric on it. Now it works just like the quilt rack desceibed. One day it will return from house clothing to making it again!
My clever husband constructed a rack for his particular needs out of PVC pipe. He has a bar for pants, and hooks for hanging his shirts so they don’t wrinkle.
Marlene Gonzalez says
I would love a copy of the book! Melinda Nielsen goes to my parish and I stopped her after Mass the day after you posted about her book. Turns out she is a LONG time devotee of yours! I told her it was a collision of worlds for me. Whether or not I win a copy, I know I need this book! I loved Blum’s compilation of Newman’s Lenten reflections (Tears of Christ), so a guided tour of Newman’s sermons would be wonderful.
Kimberlee says
Please enter me in the giveaway! Thank you and God reward you!
SS says
I would love to be considered. Thank you.
Eva says
Entering the contest!
I’m thinking I’ll never find a quilt rack at our local thrift shop.. but an older wooden bassinet..maybe yes. Sounds like a little DIY…
Katie says
Tossing my name into the hat. 🎩 Thank you for hosting this giveaway!
Breana E says
Please enter me in the giveaway!
Grete says
Thank you for the giveaway chance. I love free, good books!
Renee says
I would love a copy of Newman’s sermons! Thanks for the opportunity!
I remember my dad’s “valet” as well! The quilt rack is a good idea! I have a couple of hooks in my closet and a shelf where I put still-good shirts, sweaters, trousers, skirts, etc. I don’t want to put them in a drawer or hang them next to perfectly clean things…pollen, life, etc…but they can be worn one more time. I agree, the chair does not work! It becomes Mt. Clutter!
Thanks for all the wisdom, both practical and deep!
Alex (Alessia) Laehn West says
Thank you, as always, Mrs. L.! My husband would love Newman’s sermons, so I’ll leave this message. And now I want to check out your list of books… 😊
Wysteria says
Always enjoy your posts when I make time to read them. Read last weeks re Neumann and this weeks but haven’t ever read him. Only been Catholic 5 years though so God willing there’s ample time left (after my children – #6 on the way – are on to their own lives possibly, as the Ambleside prereading and reworking book choices keeps me pretty deep in the books). Currently prereading “Characters of the Reformation” by Belloc for my to be Y8 kid (alternative to “Saints and Hero’s” hopefully). Anyway, thank you for what you do and the time and energy it takes you to do so. Pax Christi.
Ann says
Please enter me in your giveaway. I have just started reading him in the last couple of years and his sermons are so good for the soul in these times. I’m enjoying your posts about your kitchen remodel,. Looking forward to seeing the final product, as I’m sure you are as well:)
Mignon says
I couldn’t help but think of how much your quilt rack looks like a contracted version of the crib upon which I flung my clothes for years until recently, when I finally broke it down since no one is sleeping in it anymore! Now I have no place to put those still wearable items of clothing! The quilt rack is clever.
Also, hooks. I am reminded of Tolkein’s description of hobbit homes as being filled with long hallways with hooks all along them.
Leila says
Yes, the quilt rack does look to me like a crib! I had a bit of trouble taking a picture that “read” correctly for that reason!
And yes, you know I love hooks too 🙂
Anh says
I first learned about John Senior while listening to an interview with Dr. Anthony Esolen. He was asked to provide a book list for children and said he didn’t need to because there was already one that couldn’t be bested, and that was how I started learning about John Senior’s impact on Catholic education, and the ripple effects it still has today. Amazing! I recommend his list to all my friends who ask how I go about building my home library. And I also reference the library project here!
Rebecca C. says
Thank you for the book recommendation, and I definitely want to be entered in the giveaway!
John Senior has been very influential to me in how I homeschool my children. I am very happy to say they know chickens well!
Michelle says
I’d love to enter the giveaway!
If my clothes strewn about are a sign of my organization, can I safely assume those pristine friends of mine have cluttered minds?😊
Leila says
Yes, they are totally disorganized, against all the evidence!! 😉
Jennifer says
My husband made himself a coat tree-like stand for his clothes that are less than perfectly clean but still wearable. A quilt stand would certainly be more elegant!
Please enter me in the drawing!
Alexis M. says
Somehow I’ve evolved into the type of person to just hang or fold the slightly-worn-but-not-smelly item of clothing back in the closet with all the others. It used to bug me, so I would just throw them on the floor I think? Honestly, after reading Marie Kondo’s method, it convinced me that clutter isn’t helping anything, and hanging up the clothes is just fine after all. But these are good ideas for things I plan on wearing again later in the day! Love your content as always.
A couple years ago some friends and I read “Tears of Christ”—a collection of Lenten sermons by St. John Henry Newman published by the Augustine Institute. It’s been a wonderful collection to read through each Lent. I’ve added the two books of his you’ve mentioned to my wishlist to purchase even if I don’t win one in the giveaway.
Logan says
You are living in my head with this post! Yes to the clothes dilemma! And I’m right now reading “John Senior and the restoration of realism”which you recommended so long ago and it is so good! I need to get a book club together to discuss it because I want to talk about it with people! I would love to read more Newman especially after reading how influential he was on Senior’s thought.
Heather says
We would love to be entered in the drawing for the sermons.
Love the idea with the quilt rack. I do use mine for quilts–rotating them with the seasons, refolding over the rack in different line, and getting to enjoy the beauty of the work of my grandmother and my sister. But, the clothing issue is very real and it is a great suggestion!
Ashley says
I’m not on Facebook but I do think of setting up an email and starting a Pocket….
I enjoyed the garden pictures last week. It’s always neat to see gardens in other parts of the country.
Leila says
If you want to reach out to people in your area, I am thinking that FB is the best way to go. It draws people to you and then you can move them over to an email list.
If you want to do it a different way, that’s fine with me!
If you want to do it via FB, either make an account or get a friend to be the admin. Either way, email me and I will help you set it up.
Danielle Vdp says
Would love a book!
jennifer says
What to do with slightly dirty clothing IS such a funny problem. I like your solution.
Shannon says
This is a perpetual issue for me! I cannot bear to mingle something worn-once-but-not-dirty in with perfectly clean clothing! Going to browse 1stdibs soon for a quality quilt rack and valet for my husband. Thank you for acknowledging this unique issue! 🙂
Mama Rachael says
Yeah, comments open! There was no spot for comments yesterday when I looked, so glad I came back. Gosh, I had quilt rack ages ago and got rid of it. I’ll have to look for one at the thrift store! I just drap the slightly worn clothing over the clothes rod to keep track of what I want to wear again.
I would love a copy of that book! It looks so interesting.
Anna says
John Henry Newman was a key part of my conversion. I’d love this new collection of sermons!
Mary says
Thank you for offering the chance to win this beautiful book in a giveaway.
I do so appreciate your blog and have for many years.
Jo says
Yes please I’m entering the giveaway ! I would love to read this book !!!!!!! 💖💖💖
Ona says
Oh yes, thanks for this opportunity to win a copy of this book! And , as always, many thanks for all you do dear Leila!
Katherine Grimm Bowers says
We’d love to win! My husband, a professor and former Anglican, chose JHN as his patron saint.
Donna L. says
Hello Auntie Leila and thank you for all you do–receiving cheer and marching orders with a purpose is so helpful to me right now!
Please enter me in the drawing for the book–thank you and may God bless you!
Tess says
I would LOVE to receive that book of Newman’s sermons. I just finished re-reading Meriol Trevor’s book, “Shadows and Images,” and was inspired by the story of his life.
Iris says
I would love to have a copy of the sermons. Thanks!
Teresa says
I totally understand and relate to the “good enough to wear one more time” storage conundrum! We have usually had a chair that filled that role. I like the rack idea.
Here’s to my chance of winning the giveaway!
Erin says
I would love a copy!
Ellen says
I love these thoughts on laundry. I bought my husband a valet stand last year on etsy but it isn’t quite the thing and his clothes still ends up on the floor. His work is all outside and often dusty so he doesn’t have a dress shirt or coat to hang up. I’m thinking a pretty old very small chair would be better for this purpose.
I would enjoy reading the Newman but will probably buy them on my own anyway.
Mrs. Bee says
I came across this article on knitting mentioned in wartime songs, so I thought of you: https://www.interweave.com/article/knitting/knitting-songs/!
Recently I also came across a sweater pattern for… chickens! I thought it was a joke, but no – some chickens may molt when it’s cold, apparently, and they need the extra warmth. I had never heard that…
I, too, use hooks for clothes to be reused, I don’t have room for anything on the floor. But I also put things on hangers and use the trim around the doorway to the walk-in closet in our room to hang them for a while – for instance, that’s how my husband’s suits rest after a day of wearing them: they’ll hang like that overnight, then I can put them back in the closet. Suits, dress pants, jackets, skirts, and sweaters are the only worn things that I air out for a bit then put back even if they haven’t been washed, since they don’t need to be washed or taken to the dry cleaner’s all that often (especially if they’re wool.) I read somewhere that the best way to care for an Irish sweater is to hang it outside on a windy day 🙂
I’m glad you linked to Deirdre’s post on using her planner – I’m trying to get better at this going into September! I have a planner that works well for me, and I like writing in it… but then I lose steam, I start forgetting to take the time to think and write in the planner, and my days become less satisfying, more chaotic, I don’t know where the day went. So it’s good inspiration, thank you!
Melisa says
Late to the game here, but hopefully this is helpful to someone. For our ‘not-quite dirty enough to put in the hamper clothes that can be worn again’ we have a little rack of hooks on the wall next to our closet, and they get hung there. Works well for us, and doesn’t use any floor space.
If it’s not too late, please enter me in the contest.
God bless!
Melisa
Rachel says
Thank you for the lovely giveaway!
Christina A says
Would love to win the book, thank you!
Fernanda Kazic says
I live in Sweden but if I win the give away I’ll pay the shipping cost! Otherwise I’ll have to wait until the book is available on Amazon.
Best regards,
Fernanda
Sarah says
Your quilt for Suki is lovely! I was inspired by your quilting and have now just basted my very first, albeit, very tiny quilt! Found some fabric book prints about Noah’s ark and turned them into quilt blocks. Friend’s baby is due in a week, so that’s a helpful deadline. But I’m enjoying so much. Thanks for the inspiration!
Leila says
Oh, wonderful! What a great gift!
Jocelyn says
I would love a copy of this book! And I enjoyed the Senior interview.
Carol says
I would like to enter for a chance to win the John Henry Newman book. Thank you! and thank you for all your wonderful posts. They are inspiring and informational. God bless you.
Bethany Tallmon says
Entering the giveaway with hopes of scoring that beautiful book. I think in your last post you said it was life changing- which always puts a book high on my to-read list!
Leila says
Yes, I believe that steeping oneself in St. John Henry Newman’s sermons is life-changing! He puts his finger on the “sore spot” so often… I was referring to the whole cycle of his Parochial and Plain sermons, of which there are hundreds!
This book under discussion is a great introduction to his spiritual guidance.
Sally says
When my grandparents moved out of their home I became the lucky owner of a quilt rack that I had always thought was just quaint. However, it’s currently in the nursery. I have several darling homemade baby quilts that I want displayed but can’t bear to actually let the children use very often, ha!!
I would love to win a copy of the Newman book! Thanks!
Rosemary says
I have a small closet and not-quite-clean but not-quite-dirty clothes either are placed on top of the hamper or hung over the rod. Sometimes things just need a good airing! But, on laundry day, if not before, I make a final determination. Love the idea of the quilt rack though, or the appropriate hooks behind the door.
Any chance for St Greg Pocket’s to be elsewhere besides facebook? I just cannot join anymore. I am in St. Louis though and curious for the kindred spirits out there in this new group you mentioned.
And yes, please consider me as well for the book!
Leila says
The thing is, FB aggregates people who otherwise wouldn’t hear of the group. The group SHOULD create an email list so that communication, once people are identified and logged onto the list, happens on the list.
The admins/moderators of the group should really keep a lid on anything other than greetings and messages about public meetups (like at playgrounds etc).
The person moderating the group you might be interested can also be contacted by email. Email me and I will connect you.
Laurel S Good says
We have a two year old John Henry because my husband lives Cardinal Newman and I would love to get more familiar with his work: a nursing -friendly text would be ideal!
Abby Soejoto says
Please enter me to win Newman’s sermons!
Emily says
I so badly want to get into quilting! What a great wedding gift. I have to say I never had much of an interest until I saw some stunning appliqué quilts and it put me down a path that has me dying to learn to quilt. I just found out that one of our local libraries has a room with sewing machines available, so perhaps I will check out a quilting book, buy and bring some supplies, and then try my hand at it …
ShellyinWI says
We use hooks or pegs (4 or 5 on a board) to hang our not quite dirty enough for the laundry clothing. My husband has one that is anchored into the wall while mine is an over the door kind. Behind doors, closet or bedroom, is a great place to install the hooks!
Rachel says
Thanks Auntie Leila! That article about Roman concrete was SO cool. Who knew? And I love the idea of this man being “always bothered” by little chunks of lime in ancient concrete. It’s hilarious while also being a mark of brilliance, I think!
Melanie says
I’m not sure I quite follow how the quilt rack helps… do you leave used clothes on there until you wear them again? Or do you put the clothes properly away in the morning?
Leila says
It’s just a neater way to address the reluctance to either hang up or put in hamper. One could throw on the floor or chair — and one will! — or one can use the quilt rack.
In the morning or whenever tidying occurs, each article of clothing can be assessed and brought to its final resting place.
Sometimes if it’s work clothes, they stay on the rack until I am changing into them again — say, after I go to morning Mass, I put on my work skirt and shirt for the garden. Then maybe later I put my nicer clothes back on, and there they are, on the quilt rack, not the bed or chair, waiting for me!
Victoria Bako says
So much common sense, Leila, as always.
Thank you SO much for introducing me to Carl Schmitt. Wow, I’m in love with his work and his family already, I absolutely MUST get some prints to hang in my (temporary) home.
And if your giveaway is still open, enter me in that too. 🙂
Sarah Grignon says
Please enter me in the giveaway. Thank you so much for your blog and all your wisdom.
Lindsay Partridge says
Oh I would so love to win this book! I looked it up immediately after reading your first post but my book budget is sadly already overstretched in preparing for back-to-homeschool!