Join me and other Catholic bloggers at Conversion Diary for 7 Quick Takes Friday.
1. 18th Birthday!!
My fourth son turns 18 next week. I can’t believe I will have four adult sons when he turns 18! To me, it is always a joy to watch my sons grow older. But my two youngest sons (photo below) have a special place in my heart. When my third son was 10 months old, I nearly died from complications of an ectopic pregnancy. We were told not to have any more children. 
Through prayer and discernment (Responsible Parenthood blog post), we chose to be open to more children and I’m so thankful we were.
2. Grandmother’s Birthday
Next week is also my maternal grandmother’s birthday. Bessie May passed away in July of 1967, but every year on her birthday, I remember her in a special way. If you look at both the photo of my fourth son as a toddler and my grandmother’s photo above, you’ll probably see some resemblance.
3. March for Life
In honor of the March for Life next week in Washington, I’d like to recommend that you read the lyrics of the pro-life song that my husband wrote when he was a teenager.
4. Parents’ Anniversary
My father has been gone for 36 years and my mother for seven, but I always remember them on their anniversary, January 15th (two days ago). They were married on January 15, 1955. My maternal grandparents on the right, my paternal grandparents on the left.
photo copyright Ellen Gable Hrkach
5. A Subtle Grace Update
Beta readers are nearly finished reading the pre-publication draft of my novel, A Subtle Grace. Proofreaders will be reading it next.
6. Recommended Reading
In honor of the March for Life in Washington next week, I’d like to recommend to following great pro-life books:
Pro-Life Answers to Pro-Choice Arguments by Randy Alcorn
Unplanned by Abby Johnson
The Hand of God: A Journey from Death to Life by an Abortion Doctor Who Changed His Mind by Dr. Bernard Nathanson
7. Dust Bunnies Cartoon
image copyright James and Ellen Hrkach Please do not use without permission
copyright 2014 Ellen Gable Hrkach
Plot Line and Sinker (Ellen Gable, Author) 
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I love the cartoon, and can’t wait to read the book!
Barb, the pre-publication draft will be ready soon, if you want a copy!!! Let me know!!
That’s a trick question, right? I’d love to read it! (Must get busy rereading the first in the series.)
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I love the wedding styles from that period.
Very funny cartoon. One of my favorites of the ones you’ve posted. I’m looking forward to reading your new book.