We're reflecting on the fourth sorrowful mystery of the rosary today as part of our celebration of the launch of A Catholic Mother's Companion to Pregnancy.

Ahhhh, a mystery we all relate with, don't you agree? How often do we use the expression "carrying our cross" or some variation?

But how often do we really consider it? And how often do we consider that those crosses are--can be--blessings?

Yeah, I'm rolling my eyes as I type this, because it's a very real struggle in my spiritual life--for that matter, in every aspect of my life. I want life to be EASY. I want things to require NO EFFORT. I want to TAKE A NAP.

But you know what? Even the nap requires effort in my world. As I shoulder my cross, I need to look no farther than the end of my nose to see who's with me. I'm not carrying it alone. The company I can keep while I bear the burden makes the journey well worth it.

Our host today is Patrice Fagnant-MacArthur from Spiritual Woman. You'll find my reflection on Carrying the Cross there, as well as the prayers.

I hope you'll join us today--and each day of the tour--while we pray together for all of our intentions. I have a special set of intentions that I'm carrying with me as I pray this, and I will remember each of yours as well.

Don't forget that you can enter to win a Nook tablet as we pray and help us celebrate the launch of the latest title in the CatholicMom.com book line. You can enter once a day during from now until October 28.