I'm looking for some advice here.

I'd like to do the Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius at home.  I've never been on a retreat, but would really like to attempt at least some--if not all-- of the precepts in the book.  I know that ideally one needs to shut out the world and all distractions, however, I'm a mother with 10 children and live on a small homestead/farm.  Keeping that in mind, any suggestions on how to incorporate these exercises into my daily life would be appreciated.

Thank you!  

Try a family retreat. Pick simple spiritual readings that teach simple truths, like trusting in Divine Providence,

It is most important that the family learn  to be in the Presence of God through silence.

If the children can learn to talk quietly, walk quietly, not bang dishes, and not fight, you will have accomplished more than most families.

For one week, try to avoid answering all phone calls, visiting the internet, and listening to the TV, and radio.

Have an emergency ring if something important comes up with relatives.
Like a three ring call, followed by another three ring call, then followed by another three rings, which you then answer.

Start slowly, by having a weekend day of recollection. One day one week,  then two days the following week, then three days each weekend.

A family retreat can also be held when on vacation. That is the best solution.
However, it is most important to tell friends and relatives that you will be on a special vacation of silence.

Silence is key.

The practice of silence needs to be accomplished first.

Without silence, it is impossible to meditate or reflect on simple scripture verses.

The passage from the Old Testament comes to mind.

God is the quiet still voice that can only be heard in silence.

Teach the children to be silent first, and to lay aside all earthly cares.


However, silence without control of the passions is devastating.
If the mind is actively condemning others and finding fault -- this is not silence.
Silence is resting in the Lord.
Silence is praising the Lord.
Silence is thanking the Lord for every breath, for every opportunity to repent.
Silence is walking quietly so as not to disturb the recollection and silence of others.
Silence is patience, is kind, is being in the presence of God.

Thank you for all the good ideas and suggestions.  I've already started incorporating them.   

Ladislaus--great idea about breaking it up.  15 minutes is do-able!  

Nadir--You're right; I do homeschool.  As a result, I've seriously neglected my own spiritual duties.  How can I ever expect to raise Catholics who will remain faithful to Our Lord and become saints if I don't provide a better example?  Something happened the other day that awakened me to the need to change my spiritual direction.  NOW. 

Maria R--Love your suggestion about silence :)  What a blessing that would be!  First I need to learn it myself, though.  

Please keep me in your prayers.  I find that I have to dig myself out of a pig trough of lukewarmness, and it's not going to be easy!  

 

In her autobiography, St Faustina said that right after her final profession, there was a delay in the community giving her an assignment. During this delay, she also made a private Ignatian retreat.