Fashion Blogging in the National Parks, it’s how we roll. (Also, big news. And even bigger news. And a FASHIONABLE ADVENT giveaway.)

by | Dec 4, 2014 | Tierneys Unmasked, What I Wore Sunday | 234 comments

This post contains affiliate links. See my disclosure policy.

I like photo Christmas cards. I wrote all about it last year, and included some of the Holy Family’s OWN photo Christmas cards. So when the good folks at Joules Clothing were kind enough to send over some very stylish pieces for our whole family, I knew I wanted to use them to try a little fashion blogging on our trip to Zion National Park in Southern Utah. And see if we couldn’t get a Christmas card photo out of it.

Now, if you want REAL fashion blogging, THIS gal is my favorite. For the best in fake fashion blogging, you’re going to want to go here. But for cute kids in great clothes, in one of the most beautiful places on God’s green earth . . . well, you’ve come to the right place.

These are the top three family photos, what do you think?

Here are the cast of characters . . .

Your friendly neighborhood blogger, me:

In my new glasses c/o Firmoo!

Firmoo lets you order custom prescription, sun, or just for fun glasses, all from the comfort of your computer screen. Yay! You can even upload a photo of yourself, so you can try the glasses on. Virtually. All glasses are buy one get one free right now, no coupon code needed.

The dashing husband, Jim:

1. The bold firstborn, Jack:

2. The caring one, Betty:

3. The wacky one, Bobby:

4. The charming one, Gus:

5. The spunky one, Anita:

6. The cranky one, Frankie:

7. The sweet one, Lulu:

When I bought my ticket to Edel last month, it went a little something like this . . . 
Me: <counting on fingers> Okay, as long as I’m not pregnant RIGHT NOW, there won’t be a problem.
God: <doing math in head> Hah hah. You were.
Yup. July 27th, or so. I think?
Which means that, also along on this little adventure was . . . 
8. The new one:
Surprise! 
And if that’s not big enough news for you, I’m ALSO going to be live on The Jennifer Fulwiler Show today, on SiriusXM Radio. I’ll be on at 1:20 pm eastern. We’ll be chatting about that craziness about us not buying toys for the kids for Christmas this year. It’s sure to be a rollicking good time. But you’ll have to tell me how it goes, because we don’t have SiriusXM.

If you made it this far, your reward is . . . THE GIVEAWAYS!

Because of some very generous readers and sponsors, I have ended up with a backlog of things to giveaway to you folks. So for the rest of Advent, I’m going to be giving away some really great stuff each week.

First up is a $100 giveaway to Joules Clothing, who sponsored our photo shoot above. Please click over to Joules and check out their brilliant selection of clothing and gifts for men, women, kids, and babies. Leave a comment on this blog post letting me know what you think you might choose if you win.

Joules giveaway

Hey, I just got an email from Firmoo telling me I can give away a free pair of frames to one winner! So if you’d like to win, leave a comment telling me how long it’s been since you had a new pair of glasses. The winner gets to choose from a selection of frames worth up to $39, lenses and shipping not included.

A third lucky winner will receive an Advent bundle of goodies, including a digital download of a lovely calligraphy print by Elise at In Endless Song. These two are available for purchase in her etsy shop, along with lots of other seasonable and year-round lovelies.

You’ll also win a copy of the 2014 Magnificat Advent Companion for IOS. It’s the Magnificat Advent Companion, right there on your iPhone or iPad. Here’s a great review from Catholic Mom. And if you don’t want to wait, you can buy it yourself for less than $2.

AND you’ll get a hard copy of a new Christmas picture book by my publisher, Magnificat/Ignatius, called Ishmael: The Shepherd Boy of Bethlehem.

To win the Advent bundle, leave a comment telling me one thing you’re doing this year to observe Advent in your home.

If you’d like to enter all three contests, you can leave three different comments, or just put all three entries in one comment. That’s your call. I’ll announce ALL three winners next Monday on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

This post contains affiliate links.

234 Comments

  1. Christine

    Congrats!

    We are doing daily candle readings and "straw" in the manger. Thanks for the giveaway!

  2. Isabelle Lubbock

    CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!! yay for more Tierneys ('cause this is how your pluralise Tierney 😉 ).
    Right, probably not eligible for the giveaways because dollars and stuff, however, just in case I am, we have set up the Christmas tree but left it bare and we are adding the Jesse tree ornaments (of course taken from your tutorial 😀 – fan girl moment -) to it each day, and big decoration each Sunday. Baby Jude is loving it (I think?).

    • Kendra

      Thank you Isabelle, for your kind words and proper punctuation. 🙂

      I will have to make sure, but I THINK the Joules and Firmoo giveaways are open to internationals, Joules is in your neck of the woods to being with! And two out of three prizes in the Advent bundle are downloads, so for sure you could win that.

    • Isabelle Lubbock

      Very good point about Joules! Well, just in case they say yes, I'd go for the Hargrave loafers, or the baby fox babygrow for Jude, and Frankie's jumper, he looks adorable! I'll pass on the Firmoo, mostly because getting sunglasses would be like daring the English summers to get even worse 🙂

  3. The Minears

    Love the Thurwell sweater dress!!

    It's been a year and a half since I got new glasses, this kid has stretched them out in a big way!

    Also, we're a little behind on Advent, but our parish is having a wreath-making party this weekend! We can't wait to light our wreath!

  4. Mandi

    Congratulations, Kendra! So happy for you and your family! I got my positive on the day the Edel tickets went on sale (perfect timing!) so it makes sense that you wouldn't have known for a few days afterwards, since your due date is 6 days after mine. How funny!

    We are lighting our Advent wreath every day during dinner and we even blessed it as a family on the first day of Advent. Also, Advent is the only time we seems to manage celebrating feast days and we have several all planned (St. Nicholas, St. Lucy, Our Lady of Guadalupe, etc.)

    • Mandi

      Actually, I found out a week before the tickets went on sale. Not sure why I am suddenly putting those two days together. I guess because they are either or. Either I have a baby or I go to Edel. Although I was much looking forward to The gathering, I much prefer the former.

    • Kendra

      I'm so excited for you Mandi! And yes. I think I'm going to have to talk to Jen Fulwiler about the timing of the ticket sales. 🙂

    • Mandi

      Right? I had figured that I wouldn't of been able to go if I got pregnant the next month too (meaning this month) so I was undecided about buying tickets and taking the gamble. Thankfully I had a very clear answer. I think they should be sold no more than 7 1/2 months before.

    • Meg Anderson

      Congrats Mandi! So excited for you, keeping you and your family in my prayers for a smooth pregnancy!

    • Mandi

      Thank you, Erica, Meg, and Michele (and Kendra)! I didn't mean this to be an announcement of sorts from me!

      And as an aside, I still think your last pregnancy announcement was one of my favorite ever, Kendra, and this one is super similar and I love it. I love how you include your whole family…oh, and this NEW one…instead of just focusing on just the new baby. It's about the whole family growing and a new baby being added!

    • Tara Darnell

      I feel like this must have been going through so many mama's minds while buying tickets – it definitely went through mine so I had to double check that the ticket was transferrable just in case. Maybe next year they can wait a month 🙂

      Congrats to both of you! I wonder if either is a girl if you're required to name her Edel…

  5. Christine

    Congratulations!!!
    And since you asked, I like the first photo for the Christmas card. 🙂

  6. Mandi

    It hasn't been so long since I got new glasses…maybe three or four years? Or was it before we got married? Anyway, it seems a short time compared to how long I usually have glasses, but these one (which were a bit pricey, might I add), just have not held up at all. I will be looking for new ones within the next year.

    I'd probably get the ALEXI Womens Empire Line Tunic from Joules. If I decided to get something for myself. But I'd probably get something for David because I think I appreciate when he's all dressed nice more than when I am.

  7. Jennifer Buckley

    Hi Kendra! Congrats on your 8th! Seems unlikely you will be flying from Cali to SC that far along but it would sure be great to meet you at Edel! For Advent, we picked this tradition a couple years ago from the book The Von Trapp Family Singers–we type up names, scroll them up and tie a cute bow around them, and then place them in a basket to select from on the first Sunday in Advent. The goal is service and charity. Whomever you choose, the person is to go out of their way to help the other person. So for example, last night, we helped to guide our 3 year old to go get her 20 month old sister's sippy off the table which she had been whining for. She was ecstatic to do it. I have my husband this year so I might be extra diligent in helping him prepare for his work day. Offering a hot cup of tea at night or a foot rub after a long day. Just those small acts of service that go a long way within a family! Blessings to you and your family this Advent season!!!

  8. Mary @ Better Than Eden

    Congratulations!!!! How exciting!! We're not doing anything super new this year but have lots of old traditions filling our home…I think my favorite is the wreath and St. Andrew prayer.

  9. Sheila Timler

    congratulations! Praise God for new life! I have a friend here in Indiana who also just announced a pregnancy – her third. I'll be keeping both of you in my prayers.

    If I won the Joules giveaway, I would probably get a dress for my 3-year-old daughter who can never have enough dresses. I like the fair isle knit one.

  10. Margaret

    Congratulations! If I won the Joules giveaway, I'd probably pick Anita's little party dress for my daughter- so sweet. For glasses, my husband hasn't had a new pair in a year or two and is definitely in need of a fresh pair- he is tough on his glasses. And we love the St. Andrew novena!

  11. j palmer

    Congratulations! I'd choose a new little outfit for my baby due in April. And since you asked, my favorite photo is the first one. Hope you do What I Wore Sundays throughout the pregnancy…I love your maternity style!

  12. Laura T

    Congratulations!! If I won I would choose a tunic and/or dress from Joules to wear in my last trimester.. that, or a super cute outfit for our new addition due in February.

  13. Katie Paladino

    Ok first of all I just clicked over to the Joules sit and wowzers they have a TON of amazing stuff! The rainboots? Fabulous! And I really loves the floral tote bag! Then again I was totally loving on the little boy bathrobes for my sons!!

    Love the firmoo glasses! Super chic!

    For Advent we have our wreath displayed on the kitchen table and an Advent tree with bible verses telling the story of Christmas and each night we read the verse if the day! And the boys open a Christmas book for bedtime. Also using my Blessed Is She Advent journal:)

    Ps your pics are so great!! And congrats on the newest blessing!!

  14. Amelia Bentrup

    Congratuilations!! So happy for you!!

    I just got new glasses on Tuesday. Well…I ordered them online from Zenni and they were B2G1 free. My husband needed 2 new pairs (he's always losing his, but needs them for driving) so we got him 2 and me 1. 🙂 But we have 3 family members iwth glasses so we can always use more pairs in our house!

    From Joules…I would probably pick one of their handbags. I could really use a new purse/handbag/diaper bag/.whatever. Or maybe one of the rainboots. It rains a lot here.

    And the one thing we are doing this year to oberseve Advent is the Jesse tree (the ornaments were given to me last year). And it is really the ONE thing.. And we even forgot to do it yesterday, so apparently we already failed at that. .

  15. Julia

    Congratulations, Kendra! That's so exciting! Yay babies. 🙂 I like the first picture a lot, by the way.

    For the Joules giveaway, I'd pick any of their fox or elephant themed baby boy clothes for my almost-8-month-old. So cute.

    I am in sore need of glasses. My frames are actually the only pair of frames I have ever had since turning to the kid next to me in sophomore Economics complaining about how the writing on the board was fuzzy and wasn't that weird? six years ago. I would love love love some new glasses.

  16. Sarah

    Oh man, I've been shopping for glasses for a year since my current pair are about three years old. Somehow funds are always against me…

    The Joules clothes are adorable! My daughter needs new dresses -that party dress is spot on – and the rain boots for all!

  17. Bethany Ann

    Congratulations Tierneys! Joules has some pretty great tunics or maybe a sweater for my husband. For Advent we are doing a wreath and prayers and singing O Come, O Come, Emmanuel before dinner. We also open a new Advent/ Christmas book before bed and read together.

  18. Elisa | blissfulE

    Congrats on the newest Tierney! 🙂 The family fashion photo shoot you did is fab – did you have a photographer or use a self-timer? Love your glasses – it's been 12 years since I've bought glasses (LASIK, ha!). We're doing a Jesse Tree for our first Catholic advent. 🙂 Looking forward to hearing the podcast of your interview with Jennifer Fulwiler.

    • Kendra

      Thanks Elisa! We used the self-timer. It actually works really well, because the noise and flashing makes the kids look at it!

  19. BV

    It's been 2 years since I've had new glasses and my babies have done a number on them.

  20. Liz

    Not sure if my comment worked the first time, so here it is again:
    Congratulations!! Joules has some great clothes, especially for baby boys. I really love the knitted sweater with the polar bear on the front. So cute!

  21. Holly Gerardi

    Oh my goodness – I had never heard of Joules before, but I think I'm in love. Definitely bookmarking them for the whole family.

    My current glasses are almost three years old, so I think it's time to update the ol' prescription and get some awesome new frames. I've definitely been intrigued by the idea of online ordering.

    For Advent this year, we're keeping it pretty simple, because it's a busy work season for both of us, and we're also living out an extended Advent getting ready for baby in February. We do have a wreath, and we're trying to pray night prayer together every night. I put the St. Andrew novena as the lock screen on my ipad so that I'm reminded to pray it throughout the day.

    Congratulations on your pregnancy!

  22. Elizabeth Chapman

    Yay for Baby #8. You are wild. 🙂 Congrats to all of you!

    And, I LOVE your Joules outfit choices (especially both of those fox sweaters) and the family photo shoot. I'm super impressed that you can get all those kids (and you) looking so cute IN THE WOODS. You should see me when we go camping!! 😉

    • Kendra

      Nah, having TWO babies is wild. Having eight is easy! And thanks. 🙂

  23. Sarah

    Congrats! How exciting on another baby, what is better?!?!

    I would buy myself on of joules lovely tunics or maybe splurge for a pair of shoes since something happened in my third pregnancy that did not in the first two – my feet got bigger!!!

    Also, we are doing a Jesse tree and advent books (some from your recent suggestions) and my older boys are loving it! The baby boy is a bit ambivalent. 😉

  24. Colleen

    Oh my goodness!!! Congrats Tierney family! Wow!

    And um, please enter me in all the contests, I never win anything, but I love playing along 🙂

  25. BV

    We made our first advent wreath and have been teaching using our Nativity scene. What a special time of year.

  26. Christina

    Congratulations!! Babies are the best!

    I love the fox sweater you're wearing, though the kids sized version is equally awesome so I'd be torn between something for me or one of my boys…

    It's been over a year since I got new frames, but life with very little boys has already found them scratched, bent, and nearly broken. 🙁

    For advent we are keeping it simple because we're staying with my inlaws for the entire month, newborn and all. We're using an old advent calendar my MIL handmade for my husband, I'm trying to teach my oldest (he's 4) some prayers and the "reason for the season", and we'll set up a small nativity.

  27. Wendy Klik

    Congratulations on the new little gift from God…what a great Christmas present for your family this year.
    I would get my new grandbaby that adorable classic quilted jacket. She would look adorable in it. I last had new glasses 2 years ago. I went for an exam last month but my scrip hasn't changed at all so I couldn't justify spending money just to change up the frames.

  28. Angel Gebeau

    Checked out Joules looking to see if that cute fox sweater would fit my little guy…. apparently, he's not so little anymore, but there was a cute fleece that would be super if we won. Not sure about the girls… lots to choose from.

  29. Amanda

    I was hoping your exciting news was a baby! (I was thinking about Edel myself, and how I wouldn't know if I was pregnant and maybe Catholic women's conferences shouldn't sell tickets exactly 9 months in advance. I'm not, but I'm so excited for your little #8!)

    I have had the same glasses since…high school? College? Awhile. And I love the Joules boys' sweaters. And for Advent we have a paper chain we tear and read from the Jesus Storybook Bible.

    Also, I like the first picture for your header and the third picture for your Christmas card. And if you give me an address, I'll send you OUR Christmas card 🙂

  30. Valerie

    Congratulations on baby #8!! How exciting! Your family pictures turned out awesome. My favorite group shot is #1. If I won the Joules giveaway, I would have the hardest time picking out one thing! I really like the mid-calf Wellies in the Cambridge floral pattern, or the cute little fox sweater that Frankie is wearing. For advent this year, we are lighting our candles each night at dinner time and….life is so crazy with everything else on our plate right now, candles it is. Maybe next year will be the year that I craft super cute Jesse tree ornaments and wrap books or make a homemade advent calendar.

  31. Angel Gebeau

    Best wishes for Baby on the way.
    For advent we're lighting big 'ol candles on the front porch each Sunday evening. Got the first purple one lit last week and looking forward to two this week. Something about real fire is so hard to beat!
    Thanks for the giveaway offers!

  32. October Rose

    I love your photos!! I like the second one best. And I was kind of hoping there was a baby announcement in this post!!

    I love that little fox sweater on Frankie, for the giveaway I would either pick that and/or a nice warm coat for my little guy!

  33. October Rose

    To enter the Advent giveaway … this year I've started doing Advent calendars with my 2 year old. He loves them. 🙂 And we get our tree on Gaudete Sunday and decorate it on Christmas Eve!

  34. Becky

    Congrats! Was hoping that was your big announcement today! Hope you are feeling ok! Would love matching vests and button up shirts for our four boys for Christmas! Also, I'm putting on a Women's Advent retreat on Saturday, so that will be one way I'm preparing for Christmas!

  35. Jennifer

    Congrats on baby number 8! Love all the girls clothing, dresses, and mittens. Would be hard to pick! Jennifer L.

  36. Alana Barranco

    Well…first CONGRATS are in order!! For Advent this year…we took a few notes from Carrots for Michaelmas and ordered an Advent candle making set. Our one year old seemed unimpressed but its about starting good habits…right?

  37. Alana Barranco

    I'd love to be entered in the other contests as well. I've been searching for an adorable sweater with an animal on it. I haven't found one yet but Joules may be just the one. And I wear glasses and I love calligraphy…Coincidence? I think not! 🙂

  38. Kathy  H

    Yay congrats on baby!!

    We're expecting baby boy sometime this month and it would be so fun to get him something from Joules! The little boys knit sweaters are just adorable!

    Trying to observe Advent by waiting patiently for this child… Its hard when I want to make it special for my almost-2 year old, but she's young enough that she'll be ok with a low key holiday.

    I think I got new glasses last year? Before that it had been too long! It would be fun to win and try a new style, I always go with basic wire frames since my prescription is so awful.

  39. Sarah

    Ok, take 2 because I hit publish and then my comment disappeared… :/

    Entry 1 – A necklace! Theirs would make a great statement piece.

    Entry 2 – 2 or 3 years but I lost my glasses recently so PICK ME! PICK ME!

    Entry 3 – We are reading the little blue book advent devotional that our church hands out.

    My previous comment was much better but I think this does the job? 🙂

  40. Brianna

    Congrats on the new little one! So exciting!

    For the Joules Clothing giveaway, I love the Monica wrap dress, but I'd most likely spend the giveaway money on something for my son. The things they have for little boys is so cute and it can be hard to find good looking, classic clothes for boys, in my experience.

    For the Firmoo giveaway, it's been about a year since I got new frames, but I was pressed for time at the time I got them, so I opted for no new lenses and just bought the same frames I had before in a new color. I'd love to go a little more creative!

    For the Advent bundle giveaway, we keep things mostly simple since I'm a law student and I'm entering finals weeks. We do a Jesse Tree, the Advent wreath and the nativity sets are out, and we read from an Advent story book from Magnificat (can't recall the name right now but it's great– perfect for my 3 yr old), but that's all for now, until I'm done with exams for the semester.

  41. Anonymous

    Everything at Joules is ADORABLE. I think I need the Monica wrap dress. It looks like something I could even nurse in… bonus!

  42. Anonymous

    Firmoo… I just got new regular and prescription sunglasses last summer, but you can never have too many glasses, right?

  43. Anonymous

    This is the first year we're really starting Advent traditions since our sons are 4, 2 and newborn. We have an Advent calendar nativity scene from my mother-in-law, a new book with a different story for each day leading up to Christmas (http://www.amazon.com/24-Christmas-Stories-Little-Ones/dp/158617682X), and lighting our brand new Celtic Advent wreath with a special prayer at dinner time. We'll also celebrate the feast of St. Nicholas.

  44. Rosie

    Congratulations!!!

    I'd get that adorable striped fox one-piece for my neglected fifth-born, who was forced to wear pink polka dots yesterday due to lack of masculine clothing…

    And we've been reading lots of advent-y books and lighting our wreath for morning & evening prayer 🙂

  45. Nicole

    First of all, CONGRATS on the new baby! You have such a beautiful family and what a blessing that you have a new one on it's way! We are loving doing the Jesse tree this year and are also doing the picture book opening for each day of Advent which my children are LOVING! I would love to win the Advent Bundle!

  46. Hannah Gokie

    Yay for more babies, that's so exciting! When I saw the title of your post I just had a feeling. 🙂 Congratulations!!!

    I've been eyeing that Monica wrap dress on Joules' website since I discovered them a few months ago – super super gorgeous. It might be selfish but that's what I'm getting if I win!

    It's been approximately 10 years since I last got a new pair of glasses. Whether or not I win David and I are getting new glasses from Firmoo for Christmas for each other!

    For advent, we're taking it rather slow this year as we don't have many already-established family traditions, but we've been lighting candles and trying to read Scripture at the dinner table every night (or at least, the nights when we're all together).

  47. Christine

    Congratulations! When I see a blogger say they have "big news" I've stopped letting myself expect a pregnancy announcement, since it lets me down when it turns out to be something else. But yours was just that – awesome news!

    I like the first picture best. And, as way of entering the clothing giveaway, I'm thinking winter pajamas…for myself.

    Another thing – and please take this as a compliment – you are very pretty, and I think the big glasses you always wear obscure your face, and are perhaps less flattering than other styles might be. That said, you gotta find your own look, and if this is what you like, go for it. My own glasses have rhinestones on the front and flame-things on the side…not exactly subtle.

    • Kendra

      Thanks Christine. I do have a thing for big glasses. I guess it's the introvert part of me. I'm like, here I am, but HEY look at these big glasses. 🙂 Probably I'm going to stick with it while they're still "in."

  48. Anonymous

    Loving the photos!

  49. Erin C

    Congrats!

    I rode horses for a long time, so Joules is a brand I know and love! My favorite are the striped sweatshirts.

    For Advent, I really want to do a Jesse Tree, but I need to be a little more organized to get that done!

  50. Teresa

    Congratulations, Tierneys! I am swooning over the little boy fox sweater:-) And I'm marveling over your ability to get everyone to look at the camera and smile at the same time — the photos are great!

  51. Katie

    Congrats!

    From Joules, I think I'd get the baby snowsuit for Maria for next winter! For me, maybe a scarf? Their scarves are pretty 🙂

    I got my glasses about a year and a half ago BUT they just broke on Tuesday! So that would be perfect!

  52. Lizzie

    Congratulations! So exciting. Prayers for an "easy" pregnancy.
    and your family photos are brilliant! We only have three little ones and we have a hard time getting everyone to even face the camera, let alone look like they are happy to be there with us.

    As for the giveaways…
    I love the little girl dresses, especially the Madlyn, and for advent we are doing an advent wreath with candles handmade by the kids (toadily beeswax!) And little devotionals from magnificat kids amd we are doing a Jeese tree from your quick version 😛 we are also baking together as a family for our local homeless shelter.

  53. Rebecca Rodriguez

    Congrats on the new blessing. Isn't life full of adventures with our little ones?

    Entry 1: Because of the beautiful rain happening outside my window, I would say the Jr. Boyswelley Boys Rain Boots are a great pick.

    Entry 2: For advent we have our Advent wreath and our a book a day countdown. The boys love lighting the candle and saying a decade of the rosary. Their eyes light up when I say ok its time to thank Jesus for another day.

  54. Camilla

    I saved my email with a link to hear Jennifer Fulwiler's shows, so hopefully I will be able to get it. You all look smashing in your photos. We're doing YOUR Jesse Tree advent book, and loving it. But we're just making tiny oil pastels on cardstock squares for our ornaments, doing creative artistic interpretations of your artwork. But I don't want the advent package. And first… super congratulations and prayers for God's special blessing upon your new little one. I would really love to win the Joules giveaway because I fell in love with the Matisse Jed Mid-Calf boot–for my 15yo. She would rock those and is looking for new boots. BUT, she actually even more needs new glasses. Her last pair were a rockin' red Versace frame that looked very similar to one of your pairs (two grandma's donated money to that fashionable wish). She's had them for two years, and broke them while on her choir tour in Spain in June. They are glued now. We got the new prescription, but can't afford the glasses yet. She starts driving in March, so we want to update her prescription, but no matter what, she is legally blind in one eye and can never be without her specs. But back to the main point… can't possibly pick a best family picture or even kid picture. You just all look beautiful to me. God bless!

  55. Christina Gignoux

    Congrats on #8! How exciting, my kids were just asking when #7 would be on the way for us 😉 Would love to be entered for all 3 contests. I love the rain boots and I am in need of real glasses for the first time in my life. Advent goodies are always welcome in this house too! Thanks Kendra and I love the first family photo, but they are all really great.

  56. Tall Girl on a Short Budget

    congratulations!!!!

    i love love love that little fox sweater! i don't have a little boy but i think it's gender neutral enough to get it for my girls 🙂

    for advent we're preparing by participating in our mom's group secret advent prayer friend thing. everybody has a secret person praying for them; we'll discover who at a potluck in late advent. fun!

  57. Elizabeth

    Congratulations on the new baby! Such wonderful news!

    Joules: I love the wrap dresses, but also lots of the little boy stuff (fox sweater!) and the Leycett leather bag!
    Firmoo: I got my last pair of glasses a little over a year ago, but I could already use another pair since the little one and I have managed to put a couple scratches in the lenses. Also prescription sunglasses would be amazing.
    Advent: We did a family Advent wreath blessing and are lighting the Advent candle(s) and reading a reflection every evening at dinner. I'm also doing an couple of Advent devotional on my own each day. We're taking it slower with our Christmas decorations/music this year too. I'm hoping we'll make it to Gaudete Sunday before the tree is up.

  58. Eliese

    First, congratulations!

    Ok- I need new shirts. It's so "put a bird on it" but I like the white blouse with birds. Glasses: technically it's been 3.5 years, but those frames are ruined because I sat on them, so I am actually wearing the pair from like 7 or 8 years ago. So yeah. Could REALLY use new frames. Advent: we do a wreath with short daily prayers, a pop up calendar for the kids and a daily short story.

  59. Affordable Dolls

    You are pregnant??? I'm so happy for you! How blessed are you??? I popped over to the clothing link and I sure could use a new pair of Wellies! The goat pen is sludgey because it has been so warm! They have wonderful deals on the outlet page! Unfortunately, I've needed new glasses for about 5 years. Got a prescription about 4 years ago but couldn't afford it because Aaron was out of work. Out of your three picture choices, my favourite is the first! Merry Christmas to all of you!!!

  60. Sarah Gould

    I love all the cute baby boy clothes – especially the foxes! I'm expecting our first and it would be so fun to pick out some outfits for him.
    For advent this year we are doing a Jesse tree with ornaments that I made myself.

  61. Cristina

    Congratulations! I've never heard of Joules before, but oh my goodness they have some super cute things! If I won I think I'd go for the Navy Invite Floral wrap dress so I would have something to wear to my daughter's upcoming baptism that isn't just my best maternity dress–which is currently the only church wear that fits 🙂 It looks pretty and nursing friendly!

  62. Crazy Catholic Girl

    Congratulations Kendra!!!!! You're due on my birthday! If I won the Joules I'd get some matching outfits for my little guy and little guy to be . . . and maybe a comfy fuzzy robe for myself!

  63. Lindsay Boever

    CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!! I marvel at each baby, but for some reason babies born later in the line up of a big family are particularly special. My aunt that had the most influence on my life was the youngest of 13. I think of all her life has brought to the world and it makes me smile. One person=a whole generation of people to come here and in eternity. Always fascinating to ponder! God bless.

  64. Claire Rebecca

    Congratulations, that's wonderful news! Also, my favorite picture is the first one.
    I've never heard of Joules before, but I think I'd get one of their shirts, maybe the chambray one, because I find myself with a surprising lack of long sleeve shirts. That and their skirts are borderline long enough and it's hard to tell without knowing how tall the model is.

  65. Tori

    Congratulations! How exciting! All the babies!

    I'd love to be entered for the giveaways. As cute as the kids clothes are, I'd probably get something for myself from Joules. I have more gaps in my wardrobe and I want to do the capsule thing. I don't wear glasses but my husband does and it's been embarrassingly long since he got a new pair. And this year for Advent we are doing the Holy Heroes Advent Adventure. The kids love it!

    Here's to the new Tierney, hip hip hooray!

  66. Rebecca Milos

    Congratulations Kendra! I'm due July 16th, it will be fun to go through pregnancy at the same time as you 🙂 Given the chance I'd choose joules rain boots!

  67. mrs. s.

    Congrats on the news of #8! I'll keep my fingers crossed that you're still able to make your trip, which sounds awesome. 🙂

    Giveaway #1: The Joules website is filled with cute clothes! I'd probably pick the JNR Constance dress for my daughter, but the Baby Foxley sweater for my little guy would be cute, too. Sigh…so much adorableness!

    Giveaway #2: It's been 11 years since I've bought new glasses! 🙂 I purchased wonderful frames while I was in college and they held up through several moves and a couple of babies, but then my little guy got his hands on them and SNAP! No more glasses. The hazards of babies, I guess.

    Giveaway #3: For Advent this year, I created a "calendar" out of envelopes with various Christmas related activities. The first was putting up the Christmas tree, there are a LOT that involve opening a wrapped Christmas book and reading it, and some other special stuff tossed in – setting up the Nativity scene, going downtown to see the Christmas tree and the carolers, and other fun family activities.

  68. Heather

    Yay for new babies! We're expecting TWO grandbabies next year! I'm gonna be a Meemaw! One, a girl to be named Cosette Camille is due 5/5/15 and we just found out last week that we're expecting another (sex undetermined yet) 7/24/15! Second baby will be either Penelope Zoey or Elijah Joel. I'm excited that you'll be near Penelope/Elijah's due date so I can keep up. Actually… I have two big countdown chains in my living room so I can't help but keep up. Anyways… would love, love LOVE the Joules clothing for my new wee ones! I think 2015 is going to be a bumper crop of blessings! *hugs* Heather

  69. Hafsa

    Congratulations! That is such exciting news. And your photos as always are great!

  70. jennifer

    Congrats on your pregnancy!!

    1. I need a lightweight raincoat and it looks like Joules has a great one! Beautiful clothes.
    2. The prescription in my glasses is about 5 years old, but I recently went to the eye doctor and now I have a new one so….
    3. We are doing an advent wreath and the boys are opening a new-to-them book every night before bed (thanks to my mom!)

  71. Grete

    Congratulations Kendra and family on the new baby!

  72. Meg Anderson

    Congrats Tierneys!
    I would choose some sort of fab dress or sweater from Joules since Im post partum now and getting back into regular clothes! I need something new!

  73. Meg Anderson

    I am actually due for new glasses any time now, so this would be perfect!

  74. Meg Anderson

    For advent we have our candle wreath out, plus a paper chain that the kids made, each link having a different name for Jesus/God on it (i.e. The Everlasting Father). We also have our nativity set up and will slowly add the cast of characters to it as we get closer to Christmas.

  75. Rose G.

    Congratulations! I was hoping that was what the "big news" was going to be!

    I love the first photo for your Christmas card. How do you possibly get that many people to look good for a photo at the same time?! We can't even do it with three of us 🙂 This is the first year my husband and I have a baby, so also the first time we will be sending out a family photo Christmas card. We have always sent religious cards in the past, and felt funny about sending our own picture instead of a Holy Family picture, so we decided to do both! We designed a card which has a beautiful Madonna and Child on one side, and then our own family photo on the other, along with our message. We're really excited about it 🙂

    I love the cozy Joules robes, slippers, and socks. Now that the weather is getting colder and I'm up 2 or 3 (or 5 or 6) times each night with my 8-month-old, I would love to get some warm things to make those frequent waking a little easier!

    • Kendra

      We do the same thing for our Christmas cards, Rose! It has two fronts. 🙂 One for our family, one for the Holy Family. So, hopefully, everyone is satisfied.

  76. Laurel

    Hooray, hooray for the new baby on the way!! 🙂
    I needed those polka dot rain wellies yesterday….it rained 5 and a quarter inches here! Yikes!

  77. Kati

    Kendra, CONGRATULATIONS! How exciting for your family! I'll be praying for you.

    As for these fantastic giveaways…
    1. I would buy my girls matching dresses – the JNR Millicent with the fox on the front – from Joules!
    2. I actually got new glasses from Firmoo last year so if I won this I would give it away to a family member or friend who could use it!
    3. We are doing many things this year to celebrate Advent (relatively many, I suppose) but my favorite is the Advent playroom clean out!!

  78. Sarah O

    Yay! So excited for you! Also, I vote picture number one for your family Christmas pic. =)

    For entries:

    1 – Love the sweater Frankie's sporting, but I probably would go with a pair of muck boots for myself.
    2 – my brother seriously needs some new frames.
    3 – So much Advent goodness – enjoying it all but not stressing when we miss a day of something here and there. Wreath, devotionals, Jesse Tree, and so forth. =)

  79. Sarah Mason

    Congratulations!

    Our young family does an advent wreath and Jesse tree for advent. Our boys are 2 and 4 years old and they love to light the candle, read a bible story, and put up the ornament.

    It's been a year and a half since I have purchased new eye glass frames. Due to kids, they are continually outstretched and fall of of my face a lot. So, a new pair would be great!

    As far as what I would purchase through Joules, I think I would splurge on a nice dress for myself that I could wear after our new baby comes (due 1/3/15).

    Thanks for the opportunity!

  80. Tim and Jennie Lindstrom

    Congratulations, what wonderful news!!!

    I would love to get something for my husband from Joules. The Hawley desert boots are great!

    I don't wear glasses, but my daughters do. My oldest is a teenager, and I would want her to get a special pair.

    As new Catholics (we converted a few years ago) we would love anything to help as learn more about advent.

  81. Tara Vuono

    CONGRATULATIONS!! Baby #8 – that's so exciting! We just had baby #3 over here, so your beautiful family is very inspiring. 🙂

    I'm in love with the fox sweater although Joules has such great stuff, it would be hard to choose!

    And it has been… oh, at least four years since my last pair of glasses so that would be a great prize too!

  82. Amanda

    Congratulations, that's awesome! Great time to have a baby, in spite of the possible Edel complications 🙂

    I love your clothes for the shoot, Betty looks especially beautiful in her dress! and Anita's looks soo cute! I like the first family pic btw, the fence one is great too but the sun gets in the way of your hubby's head so while it's a really cool picture it might not be the ideal representation in case someone forgets what your husband looks like 😉

  83. Blair

    So happy for you! Congrats on #8! I voted on IG, but I definitely like #1 since you can really see everyone well. I'd probably crop it in even a little more, and maybe a slight rotate? Maybe it's something with my eyes, but everyone looks tilted a bit to the right. The clothes are awesome! And glad you had a fun Thanksgiving trip!

  84. Amy Salisbury

    Congratulations!!! The edel people should put the tickets on sale 7 or 8 months in advance, not 9!
    This was so much stuff for one blog post!! I want to enter them all. I've always wanted one of Elise's beautiful prints, and I haven't had new glasses since high school, aaaaaand I would totally get that party dress Anita is wearing for my little girl!! Aaaaand we are all about the Jesse tree round these parts this advent, and I'm tryin to do a advent book basket, unwrap one each day, we will see how it goes, Confratukations again!

  85. Kaitlin @ More Like Mary

    WOO HOO! Congratulations! What wonderful news.

    1. Those clothes are amazing. I think I would get myself some rain boots and try to spend the money on myself instead of the kids. Most likely these: http://www.joulesusa.com/Women/Wellies/Wellyprint/Womens-Print-Rain-Boot-Wellies/Invite-Floral-Maya-Blue?id=R_WELLYPRINT|DKTOPFL

    2. It's only been a year since I got new glasses but I'm already itching for a new style!

    3. I really like the prints she made. Just beautiful! We are using your straw in the manger idea this Advent and it's going really well. Hannah is so excited when she gets "caught" doing something good. She has been trying to sneak handfuls of straw in when I'm not looking though……

  86. Jacqueline Novak

    Congratulations! That sounds like a conversation my husband and I just had about a friends wedding in Philly next August!

    I would totally take any of the Joules clothes but would probably have to get one of the winter coats since I have had mine since 8th grade and the zipper isn't working anymore…

    As for the glasses, the last time I got new ones was 2011 and I could totally go for a new pair!

    This year we have decided to be very mindful in observing Advent thanks to a wake up call provided by some blog posts by you and Haley over at carrotsformichaelmas.com. We are slowing down, lighting our Advent candles, and using the beautiful Jesse Tree set my babe just received for her first birthday. We are have friends over for a little Mexican fiesta, complete with margaritas, for the feast of Our Lady of Guadeloupe. Last, but not least, we will be doing St. Nicholas day big for our little crazy Norah Nichole's name day and first birthday!

  87. Kaitlin @ More Like Mary

    Oh I forgot to vote! (wow this post just has so much packed into it!) Definitely #1! I would crop it a bit closer so everyone could see your beautiful faces a bit better.

  88. Amanda

    Oh what wonderful news! Congratulations to you and your family!

    There is so much to choose from on the joules site. I think I would go with a new tunic.

    I haven't had a new pair of glasses for years. It's on my to do list so this would be wonderful to win!

    For advent we made our advent candles and put our wreath together. I have pulled out our Christmas books. My oldest just turned 3 so we are trying to do a Jesse tree. We will also be doing St. Nicholas day.

  89. Miss Jill and Mister John

    First— congratulations!!! So happy for you and your sweet family!!! As mama of three, I just love watching you and your family grow!! Oh how wonderful! I only hope you still make it to Edel!

    As for pictures– number one or two. Number three is my least favorite.

    Joules- If I am shopping for me, I'd get the burgendy loafers. Classic with a twist. I love them!

    Eyeglasses- It's been three years since I've had new phrames.

    Advent- I love it! I made a felt Jesse tree and we read every night a different corresponding story. My little people are 4 and under so it's pretty simple but they look forward to it.

  90. Lauren @ Here We Geaux

    Babies!! Babies are always cause for celebration!! Congratulations.

    I would love the Womens Leather Long Purse from Joules…and my frames have been around for so long that I don't even remember the last time I got new ones. My contacts ran out about a month ago so the frames are flying solo on my "countenance" (as the Duggars say) and a new pair would be FAB!!

  91. Anonymous

    Congratulations! And cranky frankie is my favorite. He's a charmer. I would buy myself a beautiful floral print dress from Joules because…love. I got new glasses earlier this year but it would be awesome to have two sets to choose from! And for advent I bought locally made beeswax candles for my table.

  92. Alicia

    Congratulations on your exciting news!!God bless you and your husband for so visibly spreading the Gospel of Life!!

    I am now smitten with Joules. My daughter needs a new Christmas dress and their party dresses for girls are to die for.

    Glasses? Last pair was probably 2 years ago now, purchased in a BOGO when my toddler broke my earlier pair.

    Advent in our house is pretty simple. We do a wreath, a (ridiculously large, homemade) Advent calendar, and we try to make some sacrifices to focus on the penitential season.

  93. Mary

    Congratulations! I love the lovely assortment of wellies. We light our Advent wreath before dinner every night and sing "O Come, O Come Emanuel."

  94. Mary Lenaburg

    Congratulations my friend. What wonderful news! I am sad that I won't get to meet you in person though. I actually get to attend this year and I am very much looking forward to it. I love the first family photo of you all. Just awesome!! Happy Advent!!

  95. esw04

    I would love to buy my girls one of the Joules dresses!

    For Advent we read our children a story every night and try to reinforce what it is that we are truly preparing for.

  96. Laura F

    Congratulations! I will keep you and "The New One" in my prayers.
    For the Joules giveaway, I'd have to go with the Women's MONICA dress- The Knee Dress. I kind of feel badly picking out something for me, but let's face it, Baby Clara does not need one more article of clothing (first grandbaby on my husband's side) and my husband hates nice things. Hahaha.
    I'm an optical technician, so I have honestly grown to distrust online glasses companies. My prescription is too high anyway. So, I'll pass there. 🙂
    Finally, I forget the requirements for the advent bundle and my phone twerks if I attempt to leave the comment screen behind, but I thought everything there sounded wonderful!
    Thank you, Kendra, for your generosity, and congratulations again.

    • Laura F

      I forgot! Definitely go with the first picture. The lighting is the best in that one, by far.

  97. Anna

    Congratulations! What wonderful news for your family. I vote photo 1.

    If I win the Joules giveaway I will buy myself some boots. Though the dress Betty is wearing is pretty tempting too.

    I got my first prescription 2 weeks after my 30th birthday (proving to me that 30 is not just an arbitrary number). So these frames are coming on 2 years. Not too old, but the baby loves them, so they've certainly had some tear along with the wear.

    We are celebrating Advent this year by lighting our Advent wreath every evening. We have a couple decorations out, the few advent-ey ones that we have. My kids all have simple paper advent calenders that they are in charge of. We try to eat more simply, and there are little activities peppered in, toy donations and such. We will celebrate all the customary feasts (St Nick, Immaculate Conception, St Lucia) and decorate on Gaudete Sunday.

  98. Being Refined

    Congratulations!!

    I love the (1st) first family photo. Just zoom it in a little bit to see the faces better (my 2 cents).

    Wow! These are amazing giveaways.

    1. Joules: I would pick the Navy Infinite floral wrap dress.

    2. Firmoo: my husband wears glasses and it has been 3-4 years since new glasses, and about 8 since new sunglasses. 🙂 He needs new sunglasses!

    3. Advent bundle: We are doing advent wreath and nativity. And… bonus, I remembered to light the candle the first Sunday of Advent!

    Congratulations again! So excited for you! I hope Jennifer puts up the podcast of your interview, we don't have Sirius either.

    And the above comment, Laura: My name is Clara! LOL same as your baby.

  99. Kathleen

    Congrats on the mini! So so awesome! Love the first pic, very charming. Also, love the clothing line, especially the peony dress. This Advent, focus is on going deeper into Scripture with nightly readings. Blessings 🙂

  100. Emily

    I think my first comment disappeared when I hit publish? If I'm just not seeing it, please disregard this duplicate.

    Congratulations on your news, and thanks for hosting so many great giveaways. It's been 4 years since my last new glasses (now it sounds like this is confession!) I LOVE Betty's dress, and would love to have one to call my own! And for Advent, we have our wreath and a pink and purple paper chain to count down the days.

  101. Abby Desmarais

    We do the 'basics' for Advent: wreath and candles, and Jesse tree. Also have a sacrifice manger to fill up with hay (ribbons) when the kids make a sacrifice to make a soft bed for baby Jesus. Congratulations on #8!

  102. Camille

    Congrats on the newest member of the family! What exciting news! Is it just me or does eight sound like you've really hit the big time? Six or seven are nice, but eight is like "Official Big Catholic Family". Congrats!!!!
    I would love to be entered in all of the giveaways. My sweet daughter could use a new Christmas dress and the Constance dress would be right up her alley. I need a new pair of glasses badly, and this would be just the kick in the pants I need to get some. The fiat print is also lovely and could find a nice home in my entryway.
    Have a great day and thanks for all of these giveaways!

    • Kendra

      Ya know, I think you might be right. Eight certainly seems like SOMETHING, doesn't it? Although I'm pretty sure there's been no accounting for us since we passed four. Four is the most kids that reasonable people have. :0)

  103. Hope

    Congratulations on the baby! So exciting! I love those fox sweaters..seriously. And that blue party dress. Though, I clicked to their site and saw all those beautiful rain boots. How stoked would my kids be to be out in the mud in those? (Instead of their duct taped, boring, black ones). 🙂 I

    • Hope

      Oh…photos… I like the rock one. You have such a beautiful family! And you are all so stylish! All of the photos are beautiful, I don't think you could go wrong with any of them.

  104. Kate

    Many many congratulations!!!! I like the top pic for the christmas card 🙂

    And the Joules entry: The Honey Bee Wellies were made for me I beelieve.

  105. Catherine!

    Congratulations!

    And we just started with a Jesse tree this year!

  106. Kim George

    Congrats on #8! I really need a new wardrobe. I haven't lost the weight from my last #6. Ready to wear normal clothes instead of maternity jeans and shirts.

    • Kendra

      You've inspired us ALL to be fashion bloggers now, Haley. For better or worse. 🙂

  107. Kfussner

    Congratulations on baby #8! My husband is the youngest of 8! 🙂

    Personally, I would go with the first family photo however it was a tough decision.

    1. I would pick out a new necklace & a pair of earrings or one of the Monica wrap dresses.

    2. It has been just about two years since I ordered new glasses but I have recently started considering wearing glasses full time and getting a pair of prescription sunglasses.

    3. For Advent, I personally am reading the readings for the day and using my Blessed Is She Advent Journal to help prepare my heart for Jesus. Our oldest is only 2.5 but we have been talking to her about the birth of Jesus (on her level) and reading lots of books about the nativity and the birth of Christ. It never ceases to amaze me how much she understands and takes in.

    Thank you for a wonderful giveaway & congratulations to you & your family!

  108. Dianna

    Congrats on the pregnancy. And I love the family pictures! I like the Joules empire knit dress for girls.

  109. Elizabeth

    Congratulations! I love the photos, and I'm happy to see there will be another Tierney in this world :). I like either the first or second photo the best for a Christmas card.

    I love the fox sweater and the two dresses on your girls…so many cute things! Hard to choose.

  110. Audrey

    1) Congratulations! and,
    2) Super excited about the Joules giveaway. I love the faux fur earmuffs for me, and the fox sweaters for my boys!

  111. Crysta

    Congrats Kendra! Can't wait to meet the newest Tierney!
    I vote for the first pic for sure, but the fence one was a close second.
    Giveaway # I love all of Joules stuff but if I won I would definitely get some of there Willies or rainboots. I've always wanted some but they just don't seem practical enough here.
    Giveaway #2 : For advent this year the kids are giving up there iPad and Wii time that theyhave twice a week. It was their idea too! Also I'm trying this advent really master the family daily rosary…pray for us!
    What are you doing instead of presents this year?

  112. Anonymous

    Congratulations! We are expecting a baby(#6 for us) too, due in May. For the Joules giveaway, I love the girls' printed sleeveless dresses. They are all so cute!
    For Advent our family is lighting the Advent wreath at every dinner and we're taking all the kids shopping to help pick out gifts for a family in need.

  113. Amy D.

    Congratulations! I only have one baby, but he's the 8th grandchild on my husband's side, so we call him "Number 8" sometimes.

    I vote for the first photo as the card picture. You can most clearly see all your faces in that one. They are all awesome pictures!

    I had never heard of Joules but after looking at their site, I think I would like to get a fox sweater (like Frankie's) for my little guy and one of the tunics for myself.

  114. Mary Aguilar

    Congratulations! I think your family looks the best in the first photo.
    Giveaways:
    1. I'd get Wellies and Wellysocks
    2. It has been a little over a year since I bought new glasses.
    3. I've never celebrated Advent, but this year I wanted to. I got an Advent Wreath and I am planning to celebrate St. Nicholas and Our Lady of Guadalpe's feast days with my family, as well as prepping myself with confession and prayer.

  115. Laura Hannon

    Congrats! I'd shop accessories. I love the tweed purse and would love a new bag. I've been rocking my diaper bag and the idea of a real woman's purse blows my mind…

  116. Kate

    Congratulations on the new baby and prayers for a healthy pregnancy for both momma and baby.

    Whoa – tons of cute things from Joules. Because my kiddos usually get clothes from our generous relatives around Christmas and no one really likes buying clothes for a woman who for the last four years has a body that's been fluctuating between pregnant/non-pregnant, I would pick something for myself 🙂 I'm partial to the Floella long open cardigan (lots of layering options), or the Monica on the knee dress.

    For the kids, it's not quite advent, but rather than giving lots of presents, we like to give our kids 3 presents, because baby Jesus got three presents from the wise men. The kids get to open presents from relatives on Christmas day, but we save our gifts to give to the kids on the epiphany. Celebrating the Christmas season to the fullest extent!

  117. Catherine Harmon

    Congrats, Kendra, on #8

    I would probably go for baby boy duds from Joules, since my little guy has two sisters ahead of him and thus no hand-me-downs!

    As for glasses, I got mine 7 years ago…back when Liz Lemonish frames could reasonably be considered on-trend 🙂

  118. hosiewosie

    Last time I got new glasses was 2 years ago. I wasworried my then 1 yr old would snatch and break em, but it was me- I sat on them. 🙁

  119. E

    Congratulations!! That is exciting news!!

    love the giveaways!

    I would order that Mashancklce necklace, cute!

    And we light our advent wreath and read as a family an advent devotion everyday.

  120. Sarah C.

    Congratulations! We're also expecting and due at the beginning of July!

    This year, I am making more of an effort to celebrate Advent in our home, so we are listening to Advent music, my daughter and I rolled beeswax candles for our Advent wreath, we have a set of little Advent books that we are trying to read each day, and I know it's really not Advent-y but I always loved the chocolate calendars as a child, so the toddler and, uh, the baby in utero are sharing the chocolates.

  121. Celia

    Congratulations!! We do the Jesse Tree and Advent wreath, as well as the book "Jotham's Journey" at home. Our parish has vespers weekly during Advent, too, so I tend to go to that on my own while my husband gets the kids into bed.

  122. Michele Chronister

    For the Joules giveaway – maybe a scarf or slippers for myself, and a playdress for my oldest daughter.

  123. Celia

    My daughter would LOVE the Phoebe dress. The boys' rugby shirts are adorable, too.

  124. Staci

    The party dress from Joules is fantastic. And the big girl dress! I'm always on the lookout for great dresses for my 11 year old!

  125. Tacy

    It's been since college since I got new glasses;(

  126. Teresa

    Congratulations! And I would love the evening shift dress.

  127. tanyakoenig

    New glasses? I don't remember, but those are sure cute you are wearing.
    Congratulations on the newest baby! (:

    I would get tons of little girl clothes for our spunky one (:

  128. Lacey Barkley

    CONGRATULATIONS!!!

    I'm trying out photo Christmas cards for the first time this year (ordered em yesterda), because…. slacker.

    Also, as far as the Joules giveaway, if I won I would probably order a dress for my daughter because you can never have enough baby clothes 🙂 especially of the purple variety (like the babyhayley jersey dress!)

  129. Anonymous

    Congratulations!!

    1-Since we love horses, I'd probably choose something from the equestrian line or with the horse appliqué.
    2-besides the Costco readers, I haven't purchased glasses in 20 years!
    3-as new Catholics, we are doing a lot of advent activities. Jesse tree, advent readings, calendars, and a 25 day challenge from our church on the topic of poverty.

  130. Marquette

    Yay for more Tierney's! Just kidding, I read the post on pluralizing names and know that's not how it's done. Tierney family of 10, that's awesome!

    For the photos, I love the 3rd one best (I love all 3, but the third one most of all).

    I'd never heard of Joules; they have some nice clothes! If I were picking for me: I really love the chestnut chevron and the navy stripe pencil skirts, and then the long sleeve tie neck blouse. If I were picking for Cameron: The tweed flat cap, or the hewney shirt. If I were picking for Darrow: the navy ambleside check shirt, or the regal blue fox sweater.

    For Firmoo, I've never personally had glasses, but Darrow is getting glasses in January…does that count?

    And I've been reading about different advent observances by different churches and planned on incorporating Advent into our Christmas celebration this year, but chaos happened here and we haven't started anything official yet. My mom is shipping an advent "calendar" for Darrow that we'll be able to adapt as he gets older, but that hasn't come yet. So…we've slacked.

  131. Gina Fensterer

    Well, I love your outfits and the photos! SO FUN!!! Congrats again, I'm so excited for you that my uterus *almost* is jealous. 😉

    If I won from Joules, I'd get the jersey dress for me. It's darling and versatile!

    Firmoo—well, it's been 3+ years since I got glasses and now the protective coating is peeling and scratching off. Can't get a fix b/c the glasses shop was in CA and now we're in CO. :doh

    And Advent! How I love Advent. We are doing a Jesse Tree, an Advent wreath, Blessed Is She for me of course. 😉

    Thanks for the giveaway! <3

  132. Francine

    Congrats!!! Hope you're feeling well!

    Your kids' outfits are all so cute… but if I won the Joules giveaway, I'd totally be selfish and pick something for ME. Probably a nursing-friendly top, like the Stavely shirt tunic.

  133. Rebecca

    Congratulations, Tierney family! Such exciting news 🙂 You will be in our prayers!

    1. Probably a new dress, but so much to choose from Joules.
    2. Don't wear glasses. Yours are nice!
    3. We are doing a Jesse Tree for the first time this year and loving it! My 3yo just wants to watch the Holy Heroes videos over and over!

  134. Ashley Sue

    Congratulations! How exciting! I love the first picture so very much.

  135. Nanacamille

    I like #3 vest but allows good. Great clothing beautiful scenery and terrific people. How can you get any better.

  136. Anne Y

    Congratulations on baby #8! I was hoping that was the big announcement!

    1. I'd choose the cheeky chompers comfort chew for my baby boy
    3. Advent is my favorite time in the liturgical year. We light our advent wreath every night before dinner and I sing a special Advent blessing.

  137. Brenna

    Congrats! I'm due on 7/25 with #4.

    I love all of the fox sweaters but I'd love a wrap dress for myself.
    We are adding a sacrifice manger to our Advent practices this year.

  138. Tracy Bua Smith

    Congratulations on Baby news! So do you get sick with your pregnancies? I'm assuming you have a blog post about this 🙂 I throw up all day for 20 weeks and it's no fun, but so worth it! 🙂 I like photo #1 ! Thanks for the giveaway opportunities! Here's my entries:

    1. I'd choose the EVE Women's Shift Dress because A) I don't wear dresses right now because I'm still nursing my 16 mo. old so when I stop nursing I'll look forward to wearing a new dress.

    2. I don't wear glasses, but I'd donate my win to someone who needs/wants them!

    3. For Advent we are doing the following: http://asliceofsmithlife.blogspot.com/2014/11/advent-2014-how-our-family-prepares.html

  139. annemcd

    First of all, YAY! Congratulations!! What wonderful news about your newest little one!
    (and a totally smaller second, I like pic number 1 the best 😉 )

  140. Ana

    What great news!! God has put so much trust on you…

    It's been three years since I had a new pair of glasses!!

  141. Molly Walter

    We're doing the straw for Baby Jesus this year! Thank you for the inspiration, it's going really well so far.

  142. Abby S.

    CONGRATS! We can't wait for another Tierney! Although, when I told James, he sighed and said, "I hope THIS one is a boy." As if you're lacking for boys as your house!?!

    Love the family photos. My favorite is the first, although the second has Lulul's pigtails blowing in the breeze. Also love joule and would happily dress Peter in foxes. And especially love Advent. We sing "Veni, Veni" and light our advent wreath for our dinner meal prayer.

  143. sarahmcE

    Congratulations!
    I'm thinking i might go for one of Joule's tunics cuz i'm kind of searching for some these days… 🙂

  144. sarahmcE

    And for Advent we are doing an Advent wreath this year. My 2 year old is enthralled with fire so i'm hoping we don't burn anything down…

  145. sarahmcE

    Coming up on 2.5 years since i had new glasses. I've been thinking of starting to look for some lately. 🙂

  146. Sandra

    Congrats Tierneys! Another blessing on the way!
    1) I'd love some rain boots from Joules!
    2) It's been so long since I've had a new pair of prescription glasses that I almost don't like to wear them. Some new ones would be great!
    3) For Advent, we are praying a daily decade of the rosary plus putting time aside every evening to do some sort of family activity or have a discussion that helps us better understand our Advent journey.

  147. Emily

    Congrats!!!

    I would use the money to buy one of their darling party dresses for my little girl.

    It's been almost a year since I got new glasses. Thanks for the reminder that I need to set up my eye doctors appointment.

    We have an advent wreath on our kitchen table to light every night at supper.

  148. 3Hijos

    I missed hearing you on The Jennifer Fulwiler show, but I did get to hear her plug for your blog…& I'm so glad I did! Today is my first time visiting 'you', but certainly not my last! I'm a wife, mother of 3 boys, 2nd grade Catechist, & get paid for 40 hours of work a week.
    I have a hard time buying things for myself, but the 'Womens Long Open Fronted Cardigan, Damson' on joules site has caught my eye..!
    Our table center-piece is our Advent wreath, which we light during dinner each night, & we do the 'good deeds straw for baby Jesus',…but I'm always looking for more ways to keep Christmas centered on Christ!
    I'm excited to read more & glean ideas for my family from your family-practices. Blessings to you!

  149. Sara Pierce

    Congratulations! What a blessed gift from the Lord. You are such an inspiration! I've definitely got my eyes on some SNOWSUITS for my littles (3 years and 7 months). We are living in Va this year and crossing our fingers for some snow angel-worthy snowfall! Thank you for the giveaway!

  150. Kris

    Catching up – SO EXCITING!! Congrats! Would love the Firmoo gift – it's been two years since I've had new frames. And I'm not jazzed about the ones I have now. For Advent, we're starting something new this year, that I read online somewhere (maybe you?!). When we are receiving Christmas cards in the mail, we are praying specifically for that family at dinner, before we hang the cards on the door. And if you're still polling about the pictures, I like the one on the rocks the best.

  151. Tara Darnell

    So excited for the newest Tierney! So, so, sad I won't get to say hello to you at Edel (but obviously more excited about the baby!)

    I love the Joules NewWickmere tunic. Love – and I feel like I can justify clothing for me because they grow out of kid's clothing so fast, right?

    I don't wear glasses, but my husband hasn't had new glasses in 15 years. Seriously. He only wears them to bed because they're so old and crooked and he wear contacts, but I love him in glasses and would love him to have a pair nice enough to wear in public!

    For advent we're doing the advent wreath this year and eating in candlelight. We're also not putting out any decorations until Gaudete Sunday (except our stockings so St. Nick can fill them tonight!), and I was able to complete *almost* all of my shopping before Thanksgiving so that Advent is truly a time for waiting and simplicity.

    • Tara Darnell

      Oops – my husband wants to let it be known that it has only been 12 years since he got new glasses!

  152. Anonymous

    1. I would totally love to get that baby fox sweater for my little guy… Okay, and maybe a mama fox sweater for me so we can coordinate. 🙂
    2. I have never had glasses (unless you count that one time in 3rd grade where I wore fake glasses to school and convinced everyone they were real), but I'd love an excuse to get some fashionable frames to spruce up my image. Or maybe some shades.
    3. This year for advent, I finally finished our Jesse Tree and we've been attempting to remember that every evening before prayers. We also like to light our advent wreath during dinner, but our son is usually too distracted to eat when it's lit so it doesn't last long.

  153. Melissa

    Congratulations on your new baby!!

    Also, your family pictures are great! My favorite is the one of you all by the fence, And the clothes are all fantastic. I love that party dress that Anita is wearing, but it might be too big for my little girl, so I'd maybe have to get myself one of their tunics. I like them all, but my favorite might be the Chambray tunic.

  154. Melissa

    I don't wear glasses, but my husband does (or would if he had new glasses). He's had the same pair since his Sophomore year of high school…which was about 10 years ago. He only wears them when his eyes need a break from his contact lenses, but I'm sure it would be good for his eyes if he wore glasses more often!

  155. Melissa

    My favorite thing that we are doing for Advent this year is the Jesse tree/Advent wreath. Every night, we light the candles on the wreath, then read from our Jesse Tree book. My three year old and two year old color a picture related to the symbol/story of the day while my husband and I read the Scripture passage and reflection. We discuss the story with the kids, then one of the kids gets to hang the corresponding ornament/symbol on the tree while the other blows out the candle. Our Christmas tree serves as the Jesse tree, only decorated with lights and the Jesse tree ornaments added one day at a time until Christmas, when we decorate the tree for Christmas! This little Advent tradition really makes this time of year feel special and helps us get excited for and wait patiently for Christmas!

  156. Stephanie

    Congratulations on your little one! I would love new glasses, since my last ones are from almost 3 years ago when my first little one was born. And the Joules stuff is really nice! I would get a skirt, probably the jersey tweed pencil skirt, and a jacket for my boys to use, like the blue wellyphant waterproof jacket.

  157. Joy Beyond the Cross

    A wonderful post! Congratulations Kendra on the new baby!
    Hmm…the Jules baby Slippersocks look awesome. We live in MN and can always use good, warm, toasty footwear especially in our cold 120+ year old house with lackluster insulation. Newspaper, anyone? 🙂

    My last pair of glasses were circa 2006 or 2007 maybe, seriously…it has been awhile. 🙁

    We are celebrating St. Nick's feast day tomorrow. I am really excited to put new books, pjs, and some chocolate coins in my girl's shoes. Well, they will actually sit next to their shoes because a 2 yr old and a 4mo old have really small shoes. 🙂

    Thanks for the giveaway!! I like the 2nd Christmas photo! 🙂

  158. Rachael

    Congratulations!!

    I would love to pick out some new dresses for my girls at Joules.

  159. Rachael

    I would like to win the Advent bundle. One thing we do to observe Advent is read one story a day out of a special Advent storybook. I love getting that book out year after year.

  160. Catherine

    The Joules clothes are adorable! Would love to pick out cute sweaters for my kiddos!! May God bless and protect the precious little one you are carrying! ~Catherine

  161. Tessa

    Congratulations! When you said you had big news, I was hoping this would be it! As for the family pictures, I can't decide between 1 and 2. The scenery is fantastic.
    I want Betty's dress. So if I were to have $100 from Joules to get it, that would be great… 😉

  162. Lina

    tiny polar bear sweater for new baby next christmas orrr….. Womens Shirt Tunic, Indigo Herringbone for mama to nurse slash hide postpartum chub in for new baby next christmas 😉

  163. BL

    I would love one of the dresses for one of my girls. I love the one Anita is wearing or the Fox knitted dress. And maaaybe, a pair of boots for me.

    I don't wear glasses, but my husband and daughter do. It's been years since my husband got new glasses and even though my daughter's are less than 2 years old, she's already asking for a new pair. 🙂

    For Advent, we are lighting our Advent wreath and praying the Christmas novena.

  164. Jennifer Siegel

    Love the Womens Wrap Dress, Navy Invite Floral from Joules.
    For Advent, we have similar wreath to yours and empty manger waiting for Jesus…
    Congratulations!

  165. Victoria Falls

    Congratulations to you all!

    I would just love love that sweet little party dress for my daughter for Christmas mass!
    And it's been about 5 months since my new specs.
    Advent? We are getting there. Jesse tree to hopefully make an appearance manana.

  166. Heather

    Hi Kendra! It's been a long tome since I commented (shame on me!), but I have been reading. But your announcement made me want to come over and comment… CONGRATULATIONS on your newest blessing! I am so happy for your family.

  167. Heather

    Since I am commenting, I also went over to Joules and decided that I would love to have a pair or two of those totally warm-looking socks! I may even get a dress for the daughter and could probably find something fro the son as well!

  168. Heather

    As for glasses, I could use a new pair of those too. However, it's the prescription that's more expensive than the frames. Even so, it's been 2-3 years since I've had a new pair. My current frames are supposed to be red, but little bits of silver are starting to show through and the lenses have numerous scratches.

  169. Kristi

    Wow, congratulations on little one #8!! Btw, I love how you guys do Advent/St. Nick. We are emulating some of it (what we can handle with only having small kids! 🙂 ).

    The Joules clothes are fantastic. Would love to have the Babybear Christmas sweater for my littlest guy!

    And for Advent, we are doing both the table wreath and paper candles on the wall that my husband lifts up my toddler to "light" (taping the "flame" over the "candlestick"). The latter has been a hit with the kids!

  170. Theresa

    Congratulations!
    For Joules, I would get one of the rain jackets – we moved to VA from San Diego, and it actually rains here.
    For glasses, I had laser eye surgery, so no glasses to me. But my husband could sure use a pair after the 3yo threw them on the ground.
    For Advent, we love Advent. The kids did eat too many chocolate coins today, though.

  171. Megan

    Congrats!
    I love the Baby Helena Bodysuit Dress, Creme Floral Print- so cute!
    It's been probably 3 years since I got new glasses, maybe longer.
    We are doing the Jesse tree this year and my kids are loving it.

  172. Janice Trinh

    Congratulations to you guys! How exciting to have another new blessing in your family! The kids must be ecstatic about the news too!

    And as for the pics, I like the first photo – looks more dynamic (like your family!)

    Also, what great giveaways! I would love to get a new jacket for myself. It's been forever since I bought one, and it's getting mighty cold around here. The Holthorpe Padded Jacket (in white) would be my choice pick!

    I'll pass on the glasses, since I'm due to go to my optometrist soon. Gotta use that insurance up! LOL

    Finally, for Advent, we light an advent candle every night (advent another new one every Sunday to follow along). We also have a Christmas countdown, and each day we read a little bit about the story of Christmas. I really wish we could do more, but I just gave birth 2 weeks ago to our 4th, and I didn't have time to prepare anything – I'm using advent stuff from last year and barely got them up yesterday! I'm so bummed we missed the feast of St. Nick!

    Anyway, have a wonderful Advent season! And hooray again for The New One!

  173. Erin Shircliff

    Congrats on the newest addition!!
    It's been 3 or four years since I've gotten new glasses.
    I would get that fox sweater from Joules for sure!!!
    And we are doing the daily reading and prayers from the Magnificat and giving up meat on Fridays for Advent. Small steps!

  174. Jessica

    Congratulations on the new baby!

    I would pick out a sweater for myself or clothes for my two munchkins at Joules. Their clothing is lovely!

    I don't wear glasses, but I haven't had sunglasses in ages. Or I would gift it to my sister who does wear glasses.

    We are praying the Christmas novena, celebrated St. Nick's Day yesterday by hanging our stockings, and hoping to do the O Antiphons this year. 🙂

  175. St. Luke's Brush

    Congratulations!! And thank you for the awesome giveaways. First, I would probably get my daughter a dress or two in a similar style to your Betty's. Finding age appropriate dresses for tall 10 year old girls seems to occupy way too much of my time 😉 Second, I am embarrassed to admit it has been 8 years since I bought new glasses. I wear contacts most of the time. But for the days I don't, new frames would be great fun. Third, we are doing our usual Jesse Tree readings. I loved seeing your Advent wreath. We have been using jar candles for 4 years and the best part is that we light them during morning prayers and often leave them lit while we do our schoolwork. Thanks again!

  176. Rebecca Rooney

    I would love a pair of the Joules rain boots! They're so cute.

    It's been ten years since I got a new pair of glasses, so it might be time for new ones.

    And we're singing "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" as we light our Advent wreath every night.

    And congrats on the new baby! Very exciting!

  177. Paulina Smerek

    Congratulations on the baby!
    1. I love the Monica wrap dress from Joules.
    2. We are living life simply this Advent. We are not watching shows during the week and eating dinner by candlelight with our Advent wreath.

  178. McBorn

    Congrats!!

    Joules – Women's On The Knee Dress, French Navy Butterfly

    Advent – a short daily reading when we light the advent candle at dinner.

    Photo – the first one… but all are good!

  179. Rebecca

    First of all, congrats and beautiful photos. I'd get the Fair Isle Cardigan in Pink Grapefruit for baby girl and a scarf or two for myself. (hard to pick a fave!)

    Also, I'm ashamed to admit that I've had the same pair of glasses for 10 years. I usually wear contacts and my vision has stayed the same so I've never taken the time to get a new pair. But I'm way over due so this online option sounds awesome! 🙂

  180. Carolyn_Svellinger

    AH HA! Here's how I missed the big news! Hadn't caught up on my reading :). Congratulations ma'am!!!
    And mmmhm I'm pretty sure I'd like to buy some boots fer myself from Joules 😉

  181. Schafergal

    Congrats on the baby! I am so excited for you – and we've never even met in person.
    I would love the Byron knit set for my son, and the Millicent dress for my older daughter.
    As for glasses, I'm way overdue. Maybe 4 years? I've been meaning to go shopping for new frames, but who has the time with all these babies at home? I guess that's the point of Firmoo, right?
    For Advent, we've been keeping it pretty low key (due to said babies) but Josie did make herself an advent wreath out of construction paper and stickers. Pretty cute if I may say so.
    Thanks for the great giveaways!
    Ashley in Montana

  182. KateIsGreat

    Congratulations on your new little peanut!
    1. I would love the Monica Wrap Dress from Joules for me and the BABYHAMISH checked shirt for my son from Joules.
    2. I haven't had a new pair of glasses since 2009.
    3. We are observing Advent with an Advent Wreath and the O Radiant Dawn prayer book.

  183. Kathryn Ward

    First time to your website. Heard you on xm. I would love to get some dresses for my two girls. For advent I am giving up Facebook to try to use my time better. As a family we re are reading an advent calendar each night and making cards for church members in the hospital

  184. Carolyn_Svellinger

    Hmm I don't know if my comment went through, but I'll try again:
    Congratulations Kendra! Now I see how I missed the announcement! I hadn't caught up on my reading!
    And I almost missed this giveaway eeek!
    I'd definitely buy me some wellies from Joules. For sure for sure 🙂

  185. Michelle

    Congratulations!! What a wonderful advent blessing!

    In our family, we are doing the Jesse Tree for the first time, along with a newly-homemade advent calendar filled with chocolates. We forget less to do the readings each night when there is chocolate involved. Speaking of which .. time to have some chocolate!

  186. Michelle

    And as for the clothing, I would pick something out for my little ten month old 2T clothing to wear next year … perhaps the Boys Harlequin Rugby Shirt? Their stuff is very very cute. I also LOVE Frankie's sweater!

  187. Carly

    Congrats! Love the Cowl Neck Striped Sweatshirt from Joules. My glasses are 3 years old, I believe. My previous pair was much older. 🙂 We have an Advent calendar that we fill daily with small goodies or $. Thanks for the giveaways!

  188. Kaye-Leigh Killian

    Congratulations Kendra and family!
    I've been reading your blog all the way in South Africa for the past 2 years or so, purely to get an insight into Catholicism (having not come from a religious background) and my boyfriend is Catholic.
    I have grown attached to your blog and following the lives of your whole family!
    Such a pity I cannot enter your competition, but I will continue reading from afar nonetheless 🙂

  189. Heather Sebastian

    How fabulous! Congratulations! 🙂 I would love to win the Joules gift certificate and by my daughter rubber boots 🙂
    heatheranne99 at gmail dot com

  190. aarij ali

    There is a long tradition of fashion in India. They have bright colors, elaborate designs and beautiful accessories. Indian women have colorful saris, handcrafted mujaris, delicate bindis and intricate Simple mehndi design for left hand. And with the help of Bollywood, India fashion has been growing in popularity with the rest of the world.

Submit a Comment

Hi! I’m Kendra.

For twenty years now, I’ve been using food, prayer, and conversation based around the liturgical calendar to share the lives of the saints and the beautiful truths and traditions of our Catholic faith. My own ten children, our friends and neighbors, and people just like you have been on this journey with me.

If you’d like to learn more about what Catholics believe and why, and to be inspired by saints from every era all over the world, you’ve come to the right place. If you’re feeling overwhelmed with the prospect of how to teach your kids about the faith in a way that’s true, engaging, and lasts a lifetime, we can help!

Contact me at helpdesk@catholicallyear.com

This blog contains affiliate links and sponsored posts, for which I receive a commission. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.