In the Big Sea of Life...

Change of address

2008-07-14T17:56:00.002-04:00

I have moved to Word Press. Come see what I'm up to!

"Life Change in Progress"

2008-07-09T23:05:00.005-04:00

To coin a phrase we used at VBS this summer "Life Change in Progress" occurring here.

I am tired. I am weary. I can't focus at work worth a donut. And I do love a good donut, with a coffee regular : )

However, I am beginning to appreciate life in a whole new dimension. In the lists of things that I'm learning as I lean in towards a mile marking birthday is - an appreciation for life, daily living.

Also that a donut is good, but more worth the calories and work out if it goes with a coffee regular. I'm just sayn'.

Mrs. Mr.?

2008-07-03T17:54:00.001-04:00

I have been living under a rock. How did I miss this?

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25519830/?GT1=43001#storyContinued

Trust enables hope

2008-07-01T18:23:00.003-04:00

I found out today that a colleague's husband has bladder cancer. I learned a little about immunotherapy treatments.

I heard it would be good if the source of Jeff's were bladder cancer. Was warned that doing more research can be very overwhelming. There appears to be a fine line between enough info to make you feel you're doing the best you can for decisions and so much information that you question so much, almost to the point of decision paralysis.

My head spins from all the things there are out there about cancer and that there are so many different cancers and what we don't yet know. HUgeMONGOUS!

Speaking to this sense of being overwhelmed, I asked one of my other colleagues, how do we know when we're trusting God? What does it look like? I imagine it feels better than I feel most of the time now. I thought I understood, but apparently not with something like this i.e., I don't really trust Him.

This disturbs me greatly as I counsel people to do this all the time, but the more I try in this situation, the more confused I am. I do know that trusting God doesn't mean it comes out the way you'd like. I know that it's not true that if I really trusted in God He'd make it all go away, that my level of trust affects the outcome.

She said we take each day as it comes, we move through it and do the best we can to focus on the events and work of that day. And soon we find that one day leads to the end of a week and a week and so on. The rest is up to Him.

So my trusting affects my ability to get through the day, to focus and do the work of that day.

In short, trust enables hope.

Benedict XVI says "The one who has hope, lives differently."

Personal Insight of the Day

2008-06-30T14:28:00.001-04:00

When you lie down with dogs, you get fleas. When you work with people, you get drama. I'm just sayn'.

What didn't fit in my gill report - report

2008-06-29T17:54:00.003-04:00

Worked on the blog for Jeff for quite some time today. Got overwhelmed thinking of where to post what to whom. I think I'm too extended with programs - facebook, blogger, twitter, flikr, picasa...Where to put everything? I'm beginning to think less is more.

While i work out this ADD dilema - here are some of the picts from the week that Babs visited and other.

Stalemate averted.

2008-06-24T12:15:00.003-04:00

O.K. This cancer thing really stinks and it's easy to forget that God has this whole thing. But He reminds me, us in such subtle ways which if we're looking for them give us so much joy. Here it is for today.

Talking with my mother-in-law, a nurse, this morning only made me more fearful, at first. Then miraculously and I do mean miraculously, she broached the religious aspect of this situation and the situation with Brian's renal cell experience. I prayed that the Holy Spirit come upon our time together shortly into our medical conversation as I got overwhelmed. I kept on asking for His guidance as I saw the tide turn into the uncharted waters of theology. I know I can't convince her of anything, but I know she needs the Lord's love and comfort especially now and I so want that for her.

She's very medical and scientific and wants answers, to understand, to make the world make sense. She consults her multitudinous trusted physician friends, who give her articles, and she gets more confused. But this world can't make sense or rather there is no order in the chaos, unless you see God working in it, not as humans think He should, but as He does. This would be where our conversations usually end up- a stalemate.

I can't relate the conversation not because of privacy reasons, but because I don't remember most of the words, just the look in her eyes and an openness experienced which we've rarely shared before and definitely never on this topic. When I don't remember what we've said, but I know in my being something has happened, that's the Holy Spirit at work, not me.

We had a conversation that I think did something. I won't say she's calling the priest at her best friend's parish to join RCIA, but just maybe she'll feel a little freer to discuss these things from now on at least with God. Something has shifted if even ever so slightly.

I know it was one of the beautiful moments of this event and no matter what happens, it was a graced opportunity. Wow.

Some of the things I've seen since I last posted

2008-06-07T02:33:00.004-04:00

Another one bites the dust

2008-05-26T22:08:00.006-04:00

Well it really is summer time for the Gillespies. Linda is off for the VBS run and casting the nets deep for catechists and Jeff has no more teams left in the playoffs. Everything for him, high school sports wise is finished for the season. And that's a good thing he could use a little less stress.

Course don't feel to badly for him, as the new season will begin very soon.

Something new I learned today

2008-04-13T03:12:00.005-04:00

My husband just informed me of the 6 P's of Vince Lombardi which sounded to me like the type A personalities credo** - "Proper preparation prevents {*} poor performance." Oh and apparently "If properly executed the 'Power Sweep' is unstoppable." -Vince Lombardi

I can't imagine how these didn't get into the list of "Ollie's Rules to Live By".

Call me for number 4.

Of course this has been added to my list of favorite credo's

Happy Valentine's Day! candy hearts

2008-02-14T00:27:00.004-05:00

Enjoy and thank you to the Monkey Barn!
Candy Heart Generator

Dogs rule!

2008-02-12T02:01:00.000-05:00

Cats drool!

I'm a dog person. Always have been. Those big noses and eyes full of adoration - I mean really!

And this is my favorite time of year - dog show season. Eukanuba Cup events, Westminster Kennel Club, Krupps...fabulous!

That beagle who's getting all the hype is pretty cute. Although I'm always hoping one of the herding or working dogs gets best in show. I know nerd alert. Can't help it. Catch the Sporting, Working and Toy groups tomorrow night.

NIGHT 2: Live Telecast: Tuesday, Feb 12 (8-11 PM Live ET / 8-11 PM PT) on USA Network

P. S. I'm not the only one who's got "puppyitus", we've been talking about a second dog for a while now and with each dog show, Jeff keeps changing his mind, really with each group that comes into view ; ) We could end up with anything from a Norfolk Terrier to a Great Dane - OH my!

I don't change my mind, I want a pack of three more and nothing that drools excessively. I now what a nutty nerd.

P.P.S. Passed all my pre assessment for surgery today. That means they take my blood and my money and after the insurance says so, they let me into the "pain pump" crowd. Good news. We don't have to arrive until 6:00am Thursday morning.

Originally thought it was 5:30am - I know, 6:00a doesn't sound a whole lot better, but for this caffeine deprived night person, it's a lot easier on the psyche. Jeff / Lainie are taking over the writing Thursday morning on, check out the linda report for more info.

"The will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you."

2008-02-02T15:43:00.000-05:00

Trust. What a small word with really big implications : ) I help other people with spiritual direction all the time to deal with this small word, but now the rubber hits the wall of my convictions. "The will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you."

They've found a mass on my ovary that has to be removed with the ovary. Yikes. Yep a blip on the routine of life radar. Everything is looking "to the good" I hear from my excellent medical team. At first I was rather freaked out because I was being tested for a whole other type of thing, which because I had very very few symptoms I thought would turn out to be nothing. But God is so good, all the time, the tests for one thing revealed another that if it had gone unfound could have had much worse complications in the future.

It took me a few days to process, but I know that God is all over this and He's got it. I just have to do what I'm told and do my best and it'll be fine. I'll have 6 weeks of convalesence to practice that.

Jeff is liking being on the other side of the operating table this time and promises to keep everyone up to date at this blog. He's planning head lines as I type. What a silly man. Pray for him, too, I recall what it feels like on that other side of the table. All his joking aside, it's hard.

I want to tell you thank you in advance for your prayers and keep them coming - I should know more by this Wednesday. I plan to get out information mostly in this format so if you want to give out my blog to other people that would be O.K. too.

"The will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you."

O.K. this was very engaging.

2008-01-21T00:02:00.000-05:00

Do you know your temperament? Using the Keirsey Temperament sorter , you can actually use the data to find your spiritual temperament as well as your personality temperament. These finding have been applied to learning to get along, manage a community, profession etc.

Give it a try then come back here to read the findings based on your type, suggestions for prayer etc... taken from a recent Life Night at SPX.

Generalities regarding the Temperaments

Ignatian Temperament - SJ

Deep Sense of Obligation

Givers Over Receivers
Deeply Committed to Caring for those in Need

Like Order - Ceremonies, Rituals, Tradition, and History

Tend to be Pessimists

Need to See Continuity Between What is Believed Today and What Was Believed.

Project Themselves Back Into an Event of Scripture and become a Part of it.

- by Fr. James JandaArchdiocese of Salt Lake CityThis icon was commisssioned by the President of Creighton University, John Schlegel, S.J. on the occasion of the 125th anniversary of the University in gratitude for the work of the Jesuit Community.

Thomistic Temperament - NT

Very Logical
Gravitate to things that are complicated and challenging to the mind.

Want to master and control whatever they do, including their faith life.

Can tend to be very hard on themselves - very disciplined, very demanding, etc.

Prefers orderly, neat forms of prayer and spirituality

Tremendous hunger for perfection

Mystics and contemplatives have come from this temperament - St. Theresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross

Augustinian Temperament - NF

Usually Creative, optimistic, Persuasive

Tend to be good verbally - outspoken,good in writing and speaking

Have a great need to communicate to others

Do not do well with conflict

They need acceptance and affirmation from others

Always searching for meaning and self-identity

Want to know that what they do makes a difference

Keen Interest in the future

Transposing Events of Scripture into Today's situations.

Franciscan - SP

Have a need to be free

Can be impulsive, don't like to be tied down

Want to follow their spirit

They are flexible, open minded

Acts of loving service can be a most effective form of prayer

Like to live and pray in the present moment - not too concerned with the past or the future

Are capable of great heroic sacrifices

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Preferred Prayer Formats and Experiences

Ignatian

Formal - Lectio Divina or Meditation or reflect on the Resurrection of Jesus.

Informal- Use your imagination to become part of the prayer of scripture. Write down references/scriptures that seem interesting and then look them up later.

If you found yourself an:

ISTJ - God, help me to begin relaxing about little details tomorrow at 11:41.32 a.m.

ESTJ - God, help me to not try to RUN everything, But if You need some help just ask!

ISFJ - Lord, help me to be more laid back, and help me to do it exactly RIGHT!

ESFJ - LORD, GIVE ME PATIENCE AND I MEAN RIGHT NOW!

Thomistic

Formal - Lectio Divina with focus on meditation

Informal - Study and consider every truth, virtue, thought from every possible angle until you grasp it. Apply What, With, When, Where, What and apply to the topic of reflection. Conclude your prayer with resolutions of how you are going to practice or live out your faith.

If you found yourself an:

ENTJ - God help me to slow downandnotrushthroughwhatIdoAmen.

INTJ - Lord, keep me open to other's ideas, WRONG though they may be!

INTP - Lord, help me be less independent, but let me do it my way.

ENTP - God, help me follow established procedures today. On second thought, I'll settle for a few minutes.

Augustinian

Formal - Lectio Divina with focus on the dialogue between God and oneself.

Informal - Transpose the words of scripture and apply them to your life/situation today. Use speaking and writing to reflect and meditate. Focus on a relationship with each person in the Holy Trinity. Take more time in prayer & quiet meditation.

If you found yourself an:

INFP - Lord, help me to finish everything I sta

INFJ - Lord help me no be a perfectionist. (Did I spell that correctly?)

ENFJ - God, help me to do only what I can, and trust you for the rest. Do you mind putting that in writing?

ENFP - God, help me keep my mind one thing-- LOOK! A Bird!

Franciscan

Formal - Acts of Service and Good Works

Informal - Relating life through Jesus' life and the parables. See God in the whole of creation, use a flower as a way to enter into meditation. Be open to free flowing informal communication with God.

If you found yourself an:

ESTP - God , help me to take RESPONSIBILITY for my own actions, even though they're not usually my fault!

ISTP - God help me to consider people's feelings even if most of them are hypersensitive!

ISFP - Lord, help me to stand up for my RIGHTS! (if you don't mind me asking)

ESFP - GOD, HELP ME TO TAKE THINGS MORE SERIOUSLY ESPECIALLY PARTIES & DANCING.

My friends - I hope you found your spiritual temperament and I pray that you see yourself with a good dose of humor and compassion. Never be too busy to explore ways to communicate with God.

Other 6

2008-01-17T13:35:00.001-05:00

Was looking through the new Catechist magazine and came across this ad with light and dark blue bubbles curtaining these words "Where do you find God? " So I went to the website it listed to look www.Other6.com

Take a look and give it a try. Maybe for Lent?

Back in the land of the living

2008-01-10T18:10:00.000-05:00

We've got two types of creeping crud around here at the moment, one stomach afflicting and the other respiratory. I was "touched" by the stomach version on Monday out of the blue and it was the weirdest thing. I've heard varying degrees of affliction, mine wasn't so severe by other reports, but I just couldn't seem to shake it.

Did the unthinkable and stayed on home on a Wednesday night! Have I said how wonderful my Faith Formation team is? Well if you haven't heard me go on and on - they are fabulous! They had things well in hand, but I must have missed out on a visit from my best friend. Today I found on my desk, a hand crafted card with a note made of the only materials at her disposal: glitter glue; buttons; sequins; crayons, and construction paper. She is the queen of field expedience! Because even with only those few paltry craft items she made me smile and feel loved. Thank you Begs.

* For those of you who get the stomach version of the crud, it lasts about three days, don't push it to go back to work in one or two, trust me, you'll be back at home. For those with the respiratory version, at least a week to get over the worst of it - if you're into home remedies, try some Whiskey, Honey and Lemon for the non-stop coughing, and sore throat, my grandmother's home remedy for such ailments. Mix equal parts of whiskey and honey, she usually started with 1/2 cups and with a few tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Shake together in a mason jar and sip. I repeat, SIP one shot glass of the concoction as needed about one every couple of hours. Let's just say I didn't understand the sip part of the instructions and "smooth" was not the word for it. My grandmother would make a batch with the first sniffle of the winter. I knew when respiratory ills where imminent because that mason jar with golden, pulp-filled liquid would appear. I recently made some for Deacon Bill when we were visiting in Alabama, and ask him - it really works.

** Of course you should check all medications you are taking to make sure you can consume alcohol without any adverse effects, I'm just say'n.

Sitting here drinking some decaf and munching on a Coach Button cookie

2007-12-20T00:02:00.000-05:00

It's a Wednesday. If you know me and what I do on Wednesdays and Sundays nough said. My personal favorite for today was a discussion with two of older boys at the 7:30 pm session slot. They had decided they were thirsty so instead of using the water fountains, they proceeded to try to climb the doors to the kitchen in the Admin Hall. I hold my brains in my head.

Had the last class of 2007 today. Enjoyed the Christmas ham Family Dinner and collected the end of the year Christmas Catechetical leader booty - cookies, cupcakes, ornaments, religious art etc. Was able to take pictures of the classes in their revelries. I was heartened to see how each class shares it's bounty with the others and enjoys spending time together. And I thought how did the year pass so quickly? My grandmother used to say that it felt to her that a year passed when she was in her 40's she took a step, in her 60's when she turned her head, when she came to 80 when she blinked her eye. As I have watched "my SPX babies" grow up, oh man, I didn't even have time to blink!

Oh the Weather Outside

2007-11-25T19:25:00.000-05:00

YES! The morning after Thanksgiving Day, I jumped out of bed because... Flurries in "the Burgh"!!! Love it, Love it, Love it!

Jungian Personality Quiz

2007-11-20T01:39:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Laura for her time waster.
I love a good psychological quiz. And an update on a personality test is always fun. I know Geek city! I am what I am...and I still am an ENFJ was there any doubt? I think not.

Also thanks to the Binks for a great in advent of Turkey day feast ala la Madeline's. I'll have to do a 6 mile walk today, but it was worth it.

Night!

2007-11-13T01:42:00.001-05:00

Jeff is snoozing contentedly in his new deluxe sleeping bag - thank you Michael for the technical assistance! While I work on my Longaberger business and download photos, write letters and sip tea ahhhhh. Chole is sleeping at the "mama's side. What a peaceful night.

You'll have to view the photos I intended for tonight's blog here . Blogger is not exactly cooperating with them tonight.

Selections at the linked site are from the last month including the sets : My attempt at Art; SPX events; and the Rite of Acceptance.

Good Night, Sleep Tight and Pleasant Dreams....

Waiting endless mind numbing waiting

2007-11-07T09:16:00.000-05:00

We spend a lot of time waiting. I've been having to set up medical tests...all is fine no worries. And since I haven't had a stint with the hospital branch of the medical profession for a while, I forget it's all hurry up and wait - to schedule the procedure, to get the clearance from your insurance, to get a person on the phone to answer your questions yada yada yada. They've even made rooms for what has a become a fixture of the process! Some even come with beds and televisions ,they know we're going to be waiting so long. All the waiting... and it made me think of other things I 'm waiting for. So I'm waiting to loose the next 10 lbs. and the next and the next, for the batteries for my camera to charge, for my feet to thaw, for my "nieces" to come home for Thanksgiving break or for Christmas or Spring or Summer break as the case my be, for the water to heat for the shower, for the traffic light to turn green, in line at the supermarket... endless waiting.
I got annoyed, but then I thought that how I spend my time waiting should be my focus more than than the having to wait. It just occurred to me I should PRAY. Not like I don't when it occurs to me from time to time. But instead of praying only from time to time if it hits me as I find myself waiting, I need to consciously practice ACTS - Adoration, Contrition, Thanksgiving and Supplication. As the season of advent approaches, literally the time of watching and waiting, I think that's how I'll try to prepare my heart, so I can be eager instead of annoyed with...Waiting.

(This epiphany provided by the Holy Spirit! Thank you.)

Truth of the Knights Templar Unveiled

2007-10-25T19:01:00.000-04:00

Go to Zenit news from Rome Vatican Publishes Acts of 14th-Century Trials VATICAN CITY, OCT. 25, 2007 to find out more about a 400+ year condemnation being lifted...Or rather a clerical error being revealed. (Pun intended)

3 minute retreats

2007-10-25T18:42:00.000-04:00

Greetings my fellow catechists - "echoers" of the Good News!

Go to www.FingGod.org/retreat they have short 3-minute prayer breaks you can take at your computer.

*If you enjoy the retreat and would like a new one e-mailed to you every morning, register as a member of Finding God.org by clicking on join at the top of the screen. Select the Daily 3-Minute Retreat as a free subscription service at the time of registration. Each day a link to the a new retreat will be emailed to you and each day you’ll have a chance to spend three quit, meaningful minutes in focused reflection.

I hope you find these few minutes to be meaningful and rejuvenating.

P.S. How is reading the Bible and Catechism going for you? For me it's slow. but I'm creating another blog with helps and ideas hopefully later tonight. We haven't had a forum to share or discuss and I think it's been harder at least for me, to stay on task with it.

A pirates life for me.

2007-10-19T00:15:00.000-04:00

Did you know that Ocracoke Island was a favorite haunt of Edward Teach, the feared "Blackbeard" the Pirate?

Not hard to see why.

Today, the beaches are protected, all National Seashore, unspoiled beauty.

The sunsets and the stars are amazing.

Course so are the marsh mosquitoes.

If you bring or rent a 4x4 you can
get to some good shelling areas.

You don't need your car to get around. It's bicycle or the old "shoe leather express".

There are shops, nough said. and there are cats, cats and more cats...

Anywhere you have to take a ferry to get to somewhere else is cool, just say'n.

Everybody's Talkn' bout the New Kid in Town

2007-09-28T23:51:00.000-04:00

"Everyone who is Anyone, Darling" was at SPX Wednesday night to welcome our new YM. It was a lovely meet and greet - thanks Miss Barb!

Member Mondays!

2007-09-17T15:18:00.000-04:00

I love Member Monday's first I up-sized, then I downed! New fav drink, at the moment, at my fav hang out- Cappuccino.

Kaiteur Coffeehouse

Introducing our newest discovery

2007-09-16T18:09:00.001-04:00

We did recently find a baby turtle in our back yard. Check her out.

I call her Myrtle.

Cuz she's a turtle : )

Everything

2007-09-14T17:22:00.000-04:00

Everything Received this video clip on God Tube and give it a moment when you click on it, a little possibly hokey at first, but then - oh not so!

Red book magazine find

2007-09-13T13:36:00.000-04:00

Give a look to the following link. marriage psycho 101

Its an article on the MSN front page, and I'd classify it as basic marriage psych 101, to which normally I'd say "yawn city" but I like that it was positive, real and gives practical advice.

The only part of course that is not included and is vital, is the concept of basic being married in the Church - through the readiness, openness and choice of the bride and groom - they participate in a sacrament and therein lies the true secret to success in a marriage...a taste of the divine love...of God himself.

Inviting God's continued presence into a marriage through taking time to include God in prayer together at home and Mass; praying for each other, thanking God for each other; and asking God to direct our marriages can transform what the article describes as potentially every day dull into the every day wonderful.

The Dalai Lama Quiz

2007-09-08T16:13:00.000-04:00

I regrettably had an issue with the quiz post from the other evening so here it is again. It is interesting. Don't try to figure it out and don't look ahead, you'll spoil the ..."very interesting" response you can get.

Dalai Lama Personality Quiz

I noted that I struggled with the placement of the last three animals...very telling to where my struggle is between head and heart lately. God truly is everywhere isn't He?

Super fan goes to NC

2007-08-31T23:20:00.000-04:00

That's what my husband calls me around this time of year. Yes that's right football season! I just love it. I can't tell you why, but I do. And having one of the best husband's, yes I acknowledge he is in the creme de la creme grouping of men, he purchased for my birthday Steeler, Panther exhibition tickets.

The stadium is very well kept and has a convenient lay out , if you visit a lot of stadiums that is, and being married to a Sports writer I do. It's coridoors are large and it's easy to find your way around. It's biggest plus - the bathrooms are plentiful and clean. I didn't even have to stand in line at half time, now that's well planned. The whole stadium looks new and it's been around since the late 90's.

We were evacuated to wait in the open air concourse area because of a rapidly approaching thunder storm, I took stock of the opportunities around me, Twittered...and had my face painted.

and made a friend.

As we scanned the growing mass of fans, we noted that there was at least a 40 - 60% ratio of Steeler to Carolina fans. Black and Gold was every where you looked.

Game play was rather "vanilla" to quote the Sports writer.

So I amused myself in other ways between the potentially exciting plays. The people watching at this game was fabulous!

(Our new coach)

There were these two very genteel southern ladies or as mi quierda amiga would say colorful old broads. They were a hoot between harassing the stadium employee assigned to our section with questions like "Are you here to take role?" and shout things to their team like "Keep on him dingle" or my favorite " Pass the ball dipstick" I lost track of the number of times I saw one or the other of them come up and down from the concession stand with their glasses of beer. I have two visuals for you, gold lame strap heels and fun foam flower visor - priceless.

The city of Charlotte isn't bad for a view either, especially when it gets dark and it's all lit up.

A very large THANK YOU to Andrew G who lent me his camera to photo essay our trip.

Ours has bit the dust so we're to buy a new one soon. Have pity on my husband, it's like buying a new car for me

On the way home we had a great breakfast, and saw a "cow bus" and the Big Peach in Gaffney.

Next time we're over that way, we'll be doing a little shopping at the outlets too.

And so it begins

2007-08-29T11:30:00.000-04:00

Tonight we have Opening Mass for new year of Faith Formation classes. 6:30pm and feeling blessed to have a mostly teen crew.

FJ has returned and it looks like Life Teen Mass at 5:30pm is safe for the moment. No definite word about it starting on the 9th though.

I hear my self saying moments a lot lately, that's either wisdom of learning to make the most of each moment or finding myself behind the 8 ball. I'll go with wisdom....makes me feel more secure : )

The Jeff Report lives again!

2007-08-25T18:50:00.000-04:00

Ladies and Gentlemen announcing the much anticipated - Jeff Report! Yes in an unprecidented manuver today, Jeff has started blogging on his blog. Tune in to find out what's on our favorite Sport's Editors mind and plate. http://www.thejeffreport.blogspot.com/

Traveling Phone

2007-08-23T17:04:00.000-04:00

Walking around with the camera phone feels very different than having the actual camera, but it works...mostly.

The "G girls" and myself at the Goo Goo Dolls concert.

Kennedy Space Center & Cape Canaveral

Annual B-day lunch with los J's menos una.

Capt Bab's and the A-Boy!
The Good
The Bad

The Blurry : )

Starfish and casting nets

2007-08-23T14:48:00.000-04:00

There are about 5 or 6 people who have responded to the call to read the Bible and CCC in a year. That is too awesome!!! Starfish Begs, I haven't forgotten. Thanks.

For now posting on our blogs is good, I am going to look into the Yahoo! communities and see if going that route give us any advantages. But want to remind everyone that there is no pressure to share your thoughts on every reading. If you are inspired do so, if a particular reading or set doesn't stir much that doesn't mean it isn't working and moving you somewhere spiritually speaking.

I started at 337, and know I suggested we all do so, but for those of you who know me (and love me) hold on...I moved down to 365 to truly start from the bottom and work up. If you've already started at 337 and want to join me down at the bottom, know that the thoughts on 337 isn't wasted. I don't know why starting at the begining of the last pile made more sense at first than starting at the end of the pile. Either way we're all in the same section.

Invitation to enrichment - Jn 8:31-32

2007-08-19T15:17:00.000-04:00

"If you remain in My word, you will truly be My disciples, and you will know that truth, and the truth will set you free." (NAB) New American Bible

I was going through the handouts for the RCIA classes today and found amidst the usual Catholic Updates http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/CU.asp a beige pamphlet with this simple title printed in unassuming font: Read the Bible and the Catechism in a year.

It's put out by CHResources in Zanesville OH. When you get to their website http://www.chnetwork.org/ you can get the down loadable PDF version or pay for a pamphlet. I chose the download www.chnetwork.org/journals/readguide04.pdf

There is a forum listed on the site www.chnetwork.org as well, but I'm probably going to just post my thoughts here and invite comments as we're not all local anymore, unless there's a better way to do it - yahoo groups? They - the pamphlet people say this can be done in about 30 mins a day and is sorted into monthly sections. They suggest an opening prayer and of course to have a Bible, any version you choose so long as it has the full Scriptures found in the Roman Catholic canon. It's not like I don't already live at the church. It's not like I have nothing else to prepare, search for, cook or clean, but I have to say something about this is really right, right now.

Maybe it was the simple layout of the pamphlet or the idea that anything in small doses is do-able or maybe the time is just right, but I really feel I'm being called to do this. So I'm nuts. And like misery, insanity loves company, so if any of you would like to do this with me - I'm going to be starting with the last section 337 Eze 40-21 Sir 36:1-14 Rev 5 and 2623-2636 of the CCC and work my way back down.

If it's meant for you as well, please walk with me.

P.S. for those of us who are in SPX area, if you'd like to meet at Kaiteur - that fabulous new coffee community cafe in North Rockdale - I'm up for it : )

The Weekend of Many Meetings

2007-08-19T15:07:00.000-04:00

Yesterday - new catechists, returning catechists - in English. Hoy, la reuníon para clases regular en español and LifeTeen group 1. ¿Listo para este semana? ¡No pienso! Pero, tengo mucho trabajo.

When you comment, and I hope you do, be gentle.

Searching

2007-08-17T10:44:00.001-04:00

We're getting ready for the start of the new year and I find myself searching, for new catechists, new assistants, a new youth minister. Searching for ways to spend time with friends, with young adults going off to college. Searching for what my purpose is as I turned another year older. I was feeling very overwhelmed searching.

Then I thought or rather was inspired to think. Searching, although it can feel like lost wandering to me, is difficult because it's involves something being out of my control. Searching actually implies trusting. Trust that there is something definite that is there, that is ready, that is coming, but not yet. Trusting that I will have the ability to see it when it gets here. Trusting that it will happen in time. Bottom line trust in God.

New skin I'm in

2007-08-04T22:00:00.000-04:00

O.K. so I'm making some changes in my life and the new blog skin you're looking at is no big really compared to the others, physical and spiritual, but I think it's pretty cool none the less. I thought the previous one was cool, but was a little difficult to read.

Also with help from the illustrious Miss Barb and Harry, I'm going through the family archive of slides. Turns out my "shutterbugness" is inherited from both sides of the family. My maternal grandfather, Charlie was quite the artist and my father loved photography too. In trying to catalogue his picts I realize that my photo essayist style comes from Dad. AHHHHHH that's a hug on the heart.

These are pictures from the Pittsburgh flood of 1972.

Imitation is the highest form of flattery

2007-08-04T21:31:00.000-04:00

www.Dailylit.com - taken from The Bronzed Shoe Archives on blogger. You can suscribe to the RSS feed or get an email at your choice of days and time and choose any number of books in small digestible pieces. So great for reading gluttons like myself who need to attend to life while reading a fantastic book. I get my first of 581 installments of The Count of Monte Cristo tomorrow! Sweet. I know NERD! I am embarassed, but embrace how cool I think this is.

Prayers Requested on the Passing

2007-07-25T09:46:00.000-04:00

"Whoever hears my word and believes has passed from death to life."-John 5: 24-29

Prayers for Harriett, mother of Hal and for George father of Heidi, father-in-law of Al.

George's memorial is today at 11am at Hope and Life Fellowship, Centerville on 124 and Harriett's arrangements have not yet been finalized.

And I continue to wait

2007-07-24T21:05:00.001-04:00

Name of the three categories of the college of Cardinals?

Waiting for the Boy Scouts

2007-07-24T20:03:00.000-04:00

My brain is fried as I sit here waiting for the Boy Scouts to leave, because the guy for lock up is not here...so I amuse myself...

I scored 8 out of 10 on this fun Encarta quiz! Can you do better?
True Colors: Do You Know Flags of the World?
http://encarta.msn.com/encnet/departments/education_1/Default.aspx?page=quiz91&Quizid=91>1=10187&qpt=results

Much going on

2007-07-23T20:17:00.000-04:00

It's been so long since i came to the page. Here's the latest by category.

Miraculous - Had a very good report from Bink's last CTA. The vertebral artery that they surmised had dissected has now completely healed and is working like it should! There is no fibro whatever dysplasia and some of the tiredness could be the blood thinning meds, which if her anti coagulation tests come back looking good she'll be getting off of those too. Life is indeed good!

Heart warming - Miss Judy is back in the big Peach for the birth of her 4th grandchild. I got a chance to meet the new addition to the royal court of Iowa, the Lady Katherine. She is a budding 8 + pounds and absolutely adorable. I also got to meet her older sister, Princess Elizabeth and she is precious as well. We hit it right off and we enjoyed an afternoon of alphabet books, Sesame Street, St. Brendan's 5:00pm Mass and a glass of Southern Red from my favorite winery.

Exasperating - We are searching for a new Youth Min and have several viable candidates, so that is underway along with the usual start up excitement, but not having a Number One is telling on my nerves. Pray for Barb and Joe.

Exhilarating - I've lost 33 pounds! I have a further goal, but my chemical, hormone whatever levels are all looking good so unless there's something the upcoming test shows we could have a baby Gillespie yet. God's will, not ours, but if you have a moment could you put in a good word for us as parents?

Mundane - I've started reading the last book in the Harry Potter chronicles. I've only gotten 150 pages in and I still think Snape is going to turn out to be good. Or rather like the rest of us, I think he's basically good not evil. For those of you who have finished it, don't kill my buzz please. I want to be surprised or shocked as the case may be.

Informative - a Catholic quiz:
Some people call me "The metropolitan of the Roman Province." Who am I?

The phone saga of 07 continues

2007-07-07T17:37:00.000-04:00

I am waiting patiently, well not anymore for the tech from Verizon to call me as scheduled. However no such luck. I've of course done the two things he said to do, so it's very shortly off to the Verizon store to get a new phone.

My father was right.

2007-07-06T23:56:00.000-04:00

My father shared a lot of wisdom with us as we were growing up and he was often right about life. Tonight after just getting cut off of an hour long tech support call regarding my new PDA phone which has wiped out all my contacts and mail, and is unable to sync or can't stop syncing depending on it's cycle, I heard his voice very clearly..."Honey, the more bells and whistles something has on it, the more )(*&(*^there is to go wrong. So keep it simple and you'll be happier." After a night of unexplainable data corruption and strained nerves...the man was right. Boy was he right. Because I'd use a lot of words to describe my current mood and "happy" is definitely not one of them.

36th Annunal Firecracker legion Baseball Tournie

2007-06-27T18:12:00.000-04:00

Day 1

Two games today. In the first game at 10a, Conyers Post 77 pulled ahead of Troy Ohio's Post 43 with seven runs in the bottom of the 5th. However, they ended up losing 8-7. The second game at 2:30pm they were neck and neck with Jacksonville Post 283 and pulled up another 8-7 but this time as the victors.

Normally, I'm at the beach by now, but with two games so close together and not much fan support, it seemed like a good day to catch the action. So with a record of 1-1 so far, the Conyers boys seem good in individual play, but lack the ability to pull it together as team for smooth and confident play. They are also allowing what I would call some stale innings and have some limp fielding, but are able to generate enough energy to pull it out. Mr. Jeff is writing his own report for the Citizen, so I' thought I'd try to update my "readers" too! : )

Another day in paradise

2007-06-23T14:57:00.000-04:00

Mr. Jeff is feeling better. He still has some lingering affects of "the bug from Binks" as he's referring to it.

Miss Annie is off watering the plants at the monastery I think.

Chloe is doing what she does on long summer afternoons, sleeping.

I'm doing laundry and taking care of little things that I haven't attended to in a few months.

Our air con is making a laughable attempt at keeping the heat at bay.

Heard from the boss yesterday evening before I left work. He was checking in to make sure all is well. And it's fine. I felt badly saying we're fine without him, but we're fine without him. He is doing well in Alaska, seeing a lot of things and I think sounded relaxed and in a good mood for the first time in a long time. Good for him, and that's good for us too : )

if you haven't see it yet, check out "that Catholic Show" it's wonderfully short, sweet and to the point. I'm looking forward to using it for our RCIA class as opening for discussion. Catch episodes 1-4 very excellent faith formation and very entertaining http://feeds.feedburner.com/ThatCatholicShow

Prayers please

2007-06-19T16:10:00.000-04:00

Mr. Jeff is under the weather with a particularly vicious stomach virus.
Also for our youth minister who is ill today.
And for Miss B who is home healing.

Keep them in your prayers today please.

A lesson in perspective

2007-06-16T16:15:00.000-04:00

Avalanche Ranch was closed out yesterday - WAH HOO! Looking back we had a very successful run and things went rather smoothly. We had great staff to work with and everyone pitched in with as much as they could muster each day.

Interestingly to me, day 1 God is Real - Wah Hoo!, brought some behaviorial issues that I thought I might not see until day 2 God is present - Wah Hoo!, and in a moment of surprising clarity and insight my boss lifted my spirits. He asked me his usual yearly question - if I was "please with the day?" I responded "yes, but there were some behavioral challenges." He looked at me with a smile and said something along the lines of... When you have that many people together (150 +) are you really surprised that you'd have a few behavioral challenges?

He was right and I tried to put the "fires" we had to "put out" the rest of the week, from daily decorating and supply wrangling to personality conflicts and family emergencies to whatever in my mind in perspective and it worked.

I prayed really hard at the beginning of every day for the grace sufficient unto the day to get done what the Lord wanted, more than what I wanted. And at the end of the day prayed to be grateful for the joy that was present in the room and in the individual smiles from the kids and leaders and also for everyone getting home safe.

It was a good lesson in perspective - God's not my own.

It's official!

2007-06-12T18:59:00.000-04:00

VBS has officially sucked my brain dry! I went to dial my home phone number and I couldn't remember what it was for a minute...this is so sad.

On the up side, Begs came by to deliver a much needed item for our Youth adventure program during VBS and lent her expertise, style and wit to the process, which added to the camaraderie of the event.

Also on the up side, we have some great people who have worked every night this week to create a fun and exciting space for our Avalanche Ranch buckaroos. Kudoo's to Barb, Beth and Jessica.

We have built so far this week, a roof top in Jericho, the river Jordan parted a la the Red Sea complete with fish watching us pass by with squishy water underfoot and squirting from above and now the town of Jericho that our kids will topple as the horn is sounded and they march around the "city", I use the term very loosely.

I wonder aloud every year, why I can't make the regular PSR year like this...I realized this year - it would kill us! So I'll take the largeness of VBS for the week, savour it and move into the world of real and doable, that is until next June!

(I tried to post some picts, but couldn't get them there.)

In relation to your giftedness...

2007-05-25T00:43:00.000-04:00

"God gives something to everyone. Pray, reflect. Find out what you bring, then bring it!"

Miss Kelly, May 25, 2007

AMEN!

Anniversary at Sea

2007-05-21T00:28:00.000-04:00

Today was our 12th wedding anniversary! We celebrated in a little goofy kind of way...we went to two movies,dinner and service. Movie, Shrek the Third then church then Communion to a friend who just had surgery dinner then movie, Spiderman 3.

We actually celebrated all weekend, spending the two days pretty much just us doing things together- heaven! Saturday, we went to a National Park, Ninety-Six in South Carolina where a Revolutionary War battle was fought. But, I think my favorite part of the day was praying Morning prayer (from the liturgy of the hours) with Jeff on the way out there. I started to cry I was so content in the moment. I thought my heart would burst from happiness!

It occured to me as he sat there praying with this friend and her son, that when I said "I do" 12 years ago, I didn't think I could love him any more than I did that day. I didn't think that we could share any more of ourselves, know each other any better. Oh but I've learned I can and we do.

Happy Anniversary my Love!

Thank you for the best 12 years of my life!!!

2007-05-13T16:42:00.000-04:00

Aren't we fascinating? When we have something we rarely really appreciate it and when it's gone we can often miss the very things that made us nutsabout that something.

For example. this was the last class day. Oh I know we'll have VBS in a couple of weeks, boy do I know it, and I am so not ready at all. But hearing the silence on the hall leaves me a little...empty.

Out on the Big Sea

2007-05-09T01:43:00.000-04:00

Roiling Seas now calm or for now calm

2007-04-26T23:53:00.000-04:00

Finally received worn on Jeff's one year scan. It came back with nothing that shouldn't be on it on it! He's clean and clear for this year...I know keep your day job poet.

Speaking of poetry this one from my childhood just came to mind "...And the waves roll out and the waves roll in and the nodding night wind blows, but why the moon man fishes the sea, only the moon man knows." It really is quite delightful...the page from our children's poetry book had a deep darkening sea, with brilliant star fish and mermaids with nets and a moon with a large smile. http://www.wenaus.com/poetry/moonsong.html

Binks' second trip to the neurologist nets a shining report. Thanks to modern pharmaceuticals, blood thinning levels are in the excellent range as well as her blood pressure. She is doing her "light" tread milling exercise and back in classes for interior design.

On the work front - First Communion activities are rolling along, I'm on my second straight week of work I'm realizing I'm not as young as I used to be, but boy is God good.

The Master Bath saga continues - The shower and the bath have been tiled, and are awaiting their grout. Tomorrow morning we buy a toilet and some other wonderful bathroom type fixtures.

Big Sea Dining

2007-04-23T17:34:00.000-04:00

For those of you who didn't know, I love the ocean. Guess the blog gives it away. I am so excited by this idea...

April 15th, the first ever all-glass undersea restaurant in the world opened up at the Hilton Maldives Resort and Spa.

It sits five meters below the waves of the Indian Ocean, surrounded by an exquisite coral reef.
and is encased in clear acrylic that gives guests 270 degrees of panoramic underwater views.

O.K., now that Big Sea dining! 20th Anniversary here we come!

Foxes return!

2007-04-13T00:40:00.000-04:00

The husband spied two new kits frolicking on rocks in the woods....He has decided to rename our holdings, "The Fox Ledge" in lieu of it's previous given title of "The Retreat".

However he wants to assure the daughter of "the Pearl of the Antilles" that he recognizes her contribution as the original name and she may of course refer to our abode by whatever title she wishes.

I of course am plotting the photographic possibilities with the cunning and skill of a big game hunter.

-O.K. I'm hoping to get lucky that the Mama Fox let's them come out at twilight before the light fades. : )

Patron Saints Index: Saint Vincent Ferrer

2007-04-12T19:56:00.000-04:00

We have a new patron whom, or is it who? We are invoking in our current remodeling project...which has turned into a battle with the just cleaned out septic system.

Septic System 2 Home Team 0

Patron Saints Index: Saint Vincent Ferrer

If asking St. Vincent Ferrer to intercede for us doesn't work, we may be needing a two seater out back!

Mixed bag 05

2007-04-11T00:23:00.000-04:00

I was going though some of our pictures for a Longaberger show I'm doing tomorrow and here are some of the others I saw that I thought were cool. The cat does appear to be praying, Jeff really is sacked out at Longaberger, Flat Stanley did indeed go on the factory wine tour, Skeeters is a girl dog, and that castle is made of candy and chocolate (which everyone knows is it's own food group)!

Joyous Octave of Easter to you!

2007-04-09T22:27:00.000-04:00

Well the Great Easter Vigil was really great! We had 5 adults two baptized and three make professions of faith and at least 18 kids of various ages and sacramental receptions at the Easter Vigil. There was a great feeling of excited serenity. Seems contradictory I know, but that was how it felt.

Purposeful, awesome and although not as grand or as rich as I'd like to see the symbols communicated it didn't matter. God takes care of everything and makes it so meaningful for those coming into the Church.

We are blessed with wonderful RCI team members for the kids and the adults, who care so deeply about each candidate/catechumen and freely give their time and love. I think that the position of team member gives a unique perspective, truly being able to watch through the year as those preparing are "dying to sin" and at the Easter Vigil "rising to new life," a new birth that can truly be felt.

Or maybe it's just me...Naaaa.

Caution Men at Work!

2007-04-06T00:01:00.000-04:00

Before Dad and Sister make the move to Alabama, he and our new friend Mikail are busy remodeling our master bathroom. He's a great Dad!

Like Basketball?

2007-04-05T22:45:00.000-04:00

Even I thought that was kind of cool!

"...it's nothing like basketball!"...so they say.

A dog's life on the Big Sea

2007-04-05T22:30:00.000-04:00

A dog's life...in this house not a bad gig!

Springtime Septic Tank Blues

2007-04-04T01:35:00.000-04:00

Ah the scents of spring.

The Sea weeps

2007-04-02T16:07:00.000-04:00

One of our young parishioners was killed last night in a car related tragedy. Please offer prayers for the repose of the soul of Jaclyn Saksefski and also for her family.

Visitation is this Tuesday April 3rd, 6-8pm at Scott Ward and the funeral will be the following day April 4th, 4:00pm here at SPX.

Something is different

2007-03-29T22:54:00.000-04:00

When you work for "the Church", well at least with what I do, Lent is all about "retreats", reflection. Unfortunately as too often is the case, this does not include me. Oh my plans are grand, and I look toward Lent when I'm in the December break and think that I will go on a silent retreat and I will go to daily Mass, weekly Stations and get to confession early, and a host of other things,while helping everyone else, but I just don't seem able to make most not surprisingly or sometimes any of those things a reality shockingly.

I know it's my fault. And I pave the way with good intentions - but when choices come, I do the things I "have to get done", then I do for my own spiritual good - some role model! We have 1,700 families - let's face it I'm doomed with that attitude. I could never "be done" with what "needs" to be done.

So tonight, once again I stood staring down the barrel at my Holy Week duties, knowing that I didn't "retreat", but tonight, I stopped doing and was quiet.

And in that quiet, the memories and feelings of retreats of the past flooded my mind. I could see priests, a host of smiles, Adoration, a rambling beach house with quiet nooks for prayer, a forest view from the window of a rustic chapel, a heart-felt letter from my dearest friend. I felt a shift.

It doesn't make up for what I chose to miss, and I have a lot of work ahead of me, but I stopped and it tells me something is definitely different.

Conclusion

2007-03-20T18:19:00.000-04:00

Recently, a host of things some smaller and some larger happened or didn't that just, well "stunk". Conclusion some days are just blue no matter what you do. I'm sure we're all familiar with blue. I just needed to share it with you. Pity party over. Now that's some better blue.

2007-03-20T18:16:00.000-04:00

Miss Laura - way cool! Thank you.

Read my VisualDNA™ Get your own VisualDNA™

Realizations

2007-03-05T17:41:00.000-05:00

On our recent trip to Vicksburg http://www.nps.gov/vick/ and Natchez http://www.nps.gov/natc/ (pictures will be forth coming as home computer gets fixed : ) , I was really getting interested and asking questions about the siege and campaign to take Vicksburg and was intrigued by how the people in the city, when they knew General Grant was coming dug caves and put their housewares there and lived there through much of the "conflict". Anyway, He turned to me, stepped back as if to scrutinize me more fully and this light popped on in his eyes. "I just realized you are a Social Historian!" He said it with emphasis that way too, like with capital letters. "The historical event doesn't interest you or not for long, but how the people it affected dealt with it and reconstructed that fascinates you. Look at how want the "local color" experience."

This puts a whole new spin on our historical trips. I know, geek alert, I was even more involved when we went to Natchez and road 80 + miles of the Natchez Trace http://www.nps.gov/natr/ (pronounced like matches, but with a "n" instead). How they went about their daily lives and the role of slavery, especially freed slaves then owning slaves themselves!

That sent me into a whole psychological/sociological evaluation of the situation and I couldn't get enough info. I poured over at length each of the displays, at the National Historic parks -Melrose and the Barber Home the rather palatial town home of William Johnson http://www.nps.gov/state/ms/ Normally you should know, I just skim by and pick up at catches my eye. But this time I devoured every poster, sliding board and kiosk that came my way.

I am seeing "the late unpleasantness", "the war of northern aggression" and "the war between the states" as it's referred to here in the South very differently, I think because I feel I touched on, at least to some degree, how it made the people feel and act. I can't wait till the next time!

Priceless

2007-02-16T22:48:00.000-05:00

I bought a new frame for this picture that we had taken on our honeymoon, which Jeff keeps in his office.

Some moments in life are just priceless.

Working to change the pictures as we speak

2007-02-15T21:51:00.000-05:00

I ashamedly realized that I have pictures from very far "back in the day" on the scroll so am in the middle of downloading to upload new for your viewing pleasure...this could take a while...

Which will be followed by more new and exciting photo-journalistic exploits when I return from our expedition to Vicksburg.

Knowing that my interest in Civil War Battlefields for more than two days exposure is on par with my interest in baiting a hook for fly fishing or watching the man who runs the wax machine wax the lanes at a bowling alley, my best friend and photography mentor has challenged me to take pictures that relate our Civil War expedition, but that in no way may be Civil War oriented. A weighty challenge indeed! Suddenly I have a goal! She has thrown the gauntlet of high improbability if not near impossibility, and my Leonine personality is roaring at the prospect of unparalleled success.

We Leos like to go for the whole enchilada or antelope, what have you.

Thank you Begs!

Settling back down

2007-02-14T12:18:00.000-05:00

Binks has gone home to resume normalcy both at her abode and here. I am trying to relax and take my self off sustained "high alert" .

Things must be settling down, because last night while watching the West Minster Kennel Club dog show... http://www.thepoop.com/westminster/ (one of the two must see programs I have for the entire tele-viewing year - the other, the Rose Bowl parade. http://www.tournamentofroses.com/aboutus/officialPhotos.asp I love the floats, the bands, the behind the scenes things. I don't care for all the horse riding groups after the 5th one they begin to look the same)...I took a look around my house - What a mess! How does a house with four adults become such a pit?

But I'm aware of the mess now, I'll take that as a ray of hope : )

One day at a time

2007-02-08T11:42:00.000-05:00

Binks is indeed out of the hospital and staying with us for a few days. She's vowing to take things one day at a time. The company she works for is awesome and she is working from home. Makes her feel good about the progress she's making, but it's also more relaxing from the day to day stresses of going into the office so she can ease in. It's nice to know there are still good companies that care about their employees.

They still have to regulate her blood thinner, but it's little compared with what could have been. She's taking her meds and getting some rest. I'm back at work and easing in as well. It's funny how something like this ripples out and effects everyone with it's after shocks, usually when the drama is over and you think you should be alright. We have been marvelously, wonderously and interestingly made to be sure.

Sweet Freedom!

2007-02-03T17:14:00.000-05:00

The Binks gets "sprung" tomorrow. Not sure the time and she'll probably staying this side for a day or so to get her bearings. No therapy that we know of. Can resume regular activity progressively.

More when we know it.

So say some thank you prayers, it's looking good. The power of prayer...I mean, it's just totally amazing.

2007-02-03T00:34:00.000-05:00

I'm doing a little mind melting, taking all kinds of quizzes on the web. Oh my!

You Are Pumpkin

Realistic and practical, you see the world for how it is.
You know what it takes to succeed in life...
And you're happy to help others reach their goals.

What Color Orange Are You?

Well isn't that nice? My grandmother was psychic

Your Ideal Pet is a Big Dog

You're both energetic, affectionate, and a bit goofy.
And neither of you seem to mind very slobbery kisses!

What's Your Ideal Pet?

How often are these things right?

You Should Visit Mexico

You can be as comfortable as you want, eating fast food and partying with English speakers in resort town.
But if you're feeling brave, venture out to Mexico City - or explore the tropical Yucatan.

What Latin American Country Should You Visit?

That is truly ironic!

You Are Mud Pie

You're the perfect combo of flavor and depth
Those who like you give into their impulses

What Kind of Pie Are You?

Flavor and depth, is that anything like deep and esoteric?

In a Past Life...

You Were: A Diseased Magician.

Where You Lived: Japan.

How You Died: Decapitation.

Who Were You In a Past Life?

O.K. this is just disturbing.

Your Musical Tastes Match: Jennifer Garner

See her whole playlist here (iTunes required)

What Celebrity Matches Your Taste in Music?

I think not.

You Have A Type A Personality

You are hyper, energetic, and always on the mood
You tend to succeed at everything you attempt
And if you don't succeed at first, you quickly climb your way to the top!

You could be called a workaholic, but you also make time for fun
As long as it's high energy and competitive, you're interested
You have the perfect personality for business and athletic success

Do You Have a Type A Personality?

Like I had to take a test to tell me that!

Your German Name is:

Viki Lexi

What's Your German Name?

All righty.

You Are 10% Redneck

I'll slap you so hard, your clothes will be outta style.
You ain't no redneck - you're all Yankee!

How Redneck Are You?

Sadly I could answer yes to two of the 20 questions.

Your Italian Name Is...

Bianca Moretti

What's Your Italian Name?

Don't I sound all mysterious and femme fatale like.

Your Vocabulary Score: A-

Congratulations on your multifarious vocabulary!
You must be quite an erudite person.

How's Your Vocabulary?

A - please look back at Type A personality, this is unacceptable.

And a bunch of others that I read, laughed at uproariously or with a forced nervous kind of laugh, understanding that it hit close to home.

A watched pot never boils and apparently a watched for PT test doesn't hit the theraputic level

2007-02-02T23:02:00.000-05:00

We still await the magic numbers for Binks to get "sprung", maybe tomorrow? Apparently her PT levels are short of what they want and although she's itching to get out, we appreciate their care in getting theraputic levels manageable so she doesn't have a repeat of last weekend's fun.

In the mean time, Binks sends a shout of thanks to Beth, who made the most scrumdilicious banana pudding that she's been wanting ever since she got her appetite back. It was delivered by the men of the family, who stayed to entertain Miss Binks with their wit and savvy of hospital knowledge - we talked about Monty Python, video games and told family medical stories, they were a riot!

To help wrap our minds around this whole stroke, dissected artery event, one of our very on the ball physician friends sent me this link http://www.umm.edu/ency/article/001423.htm . It is very readable, short, sweet, and to the point to help understand how something like this could happen in someone so young who doesn't smoke etc. didn't suffer any trauma to the head...
Thank you Dr. Elizabeth!

She must be getting better, she's getting cranky

2007-02-01T17:44:00.000-05:00

Binks continues to improve, now waiting for the magic numbers on her blood thinner level to appear. She says she needs more skinny blood ; ) And her brain pain is lessening yeah; however, her blood pressure is still higher than they'd like it to be. We're moving steadily out of the danger zone, but need that blood to be thinned enough that it can get through the dissected ventricular brachial whatsit without fear of further blockage and clotting.

When the levels meet the exceptable "norms", then she gets to go home and boy is she ready! Not sure what her immediate local of "home" will be, but she's happy that's the next step.

"She's a Miracle"

2007-01-31T17:23:00.000-05:00

At the writing of this post, my sister is back in a regular room - God is good all the time, all the time, God is good!

The neurologist is saying that they are "fairly certain" (medicine I'm learning is very much an art and thank God for the talented artists practicing!) that the stroke she suffered is the result of an under developed ventri brachial something artery that dissected and the inner layer collapsed onto itself and in the free space collected blood and boom clot. In other words a fluke,that would only have been detected by some weird coincidence. The damage is 1/4 of her cerebellum and she was greatly relieved to know from one of our excellent physician friends ; ) that you can live even without a cerebellum!

The pain in her head is down to about a 5, her blood pressure is still more than it should be, but probably due to the pain, which is not unexpected with a severe trauma - everything is exposed and raw and well, hurts. We are in day 4 so one more day to go and she's out of the time frame when we should see any other incidence ets.

She is on a blood thinner by IV now, but will be weaned to a pill variety for the next 3-6 months. The doctors are baffled how she can have not deficits, and still the magnitude of damage that she has incurred.

"She's a miracle" said her new floor nurse, Ruth today explaining her to the other floor nurse. "If anyone ever tells you it's not possible, just tell them about her because - she's a miracle".

This is the first time since it began my worried, weary eyes are wet with tears of relief not fear.

Keep your prayers coming, because she's not quite home yet, but she's rounding 2nd and headed to third and the lane looks clear!

God is good all the time, all the time God is good!

Learning More Than I Wanted To Know

2007-01-31T00:29:00.000-05:00

My sister will hopefully move off the ICU floor tomorrow if she has another good night. The neurologist seems to think more definitively that she's on the downside of this thing, but wants her to be monitored because you watch for signs of escalation for 3 hours to 5 days following a stroke.

The ventri brachial something something, on either side of the back of her head he "suspects highly" dissected or collapsed and blood accumulated and therefore the clot. The incredible pain is from the trauma damage to the brain and the increased blood pressure is because of the pain so she'll be on blood thinners for the next 3-6 months and blood pressure meds. I am learning far too much about medicine. : )

Thank you for yor prayers.

ICU

2007-01-30T01:22:00.000-05:00

My sister has been moved to the ICU. The rest of the symptoms have faded, but the migraine like headache continues. The MRI and MRA showed a stroked definitely did occur and effected 1/4 - 1/3 of her cerebellum. She is scheduled for a CT angiogram tomorrow which is a non invasive procedure to determine the damage to the ventri something artery at the base of her brain. (For you medical types, feel free to correct my medical terminology, I'm lucky to be keeping up when the doctor comes into the room!)

She miraculously still has motor function, balance, strength etc,; however they have also found some swelling on the brain, undoubtedly the cause of the
throbbing, squeezing pain she's feeling. The Neurologist decided to admit her to the ICU - and is baffled at the moment by what is the cause of this whole event. The pain will not subside even with the narcotic and morphine chaser and he doesn't know if she's on the way out of the danger curve, or gearing up for something worse.

As our good friend "Dad" pointed out, God has put her in the best possible place throughout this ordeal: with us, instead of home alone, into the ER instead of at our house, admitted into the hospital instead of sent off with the excuse of "oh well it must just be a migraine", now into the ICU with the unexplainable and very real danger of ? instead of the unthinkable.

How is everyone? My husband is nervous about his one year scan for cancer coming up soon, which every trip into the hospital reminds him of. Our mother is doing her best to maintain a calm exterior. The dogs are just happy when they're let outside and fed. Although her dog watches "soulfully" (forgive my theology) for his mistress to return. I'm "holding my own" mostly, but am thankful, very very thankful for my friends who I know are really holding me while I'm "holding my own".

Prayers Requested

2007-01-28T10:31:00.000-05:00

My sister suffered what is being described as a small stroke last night.

All of a sudden she became dizzy, nauseous, couldn't keep her balance and was throwing up. We thought it was a migraine, but because this wasn't the usual attack Mom took her to the ER just in case. And it's a good thing she did too, a CT scan revealed something in her cerebellum that they think was a stroke, thus the balance issues. She goes in for a MRI today and then we see. She has to stay at the hospital for the next couple of days.

It's just to weird.

Your prayers are requested and greatly appreciated.

Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park

2007-01-20T21:03:00.000-05:00

For the big finale to my trip to Central Florida, visited Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park. Our blessing of the day was seeing a manatee and her baby outside the confines of the park. And the regulars were quite something too!

Thank you so much to the "King and Queen of Iowa" for their wonderful hospitality and the much needed rest and relaxation.

Tiny Bubbles...

2007-01-20T02:39:00.000-05:00

Today marked another trip to my favorite winery, Lakeridge, http://www.lakeridgewinery.com/. Had a mixed case shipped home, in advent of the annual Super Bowl party.

I love to go to that place. It's all Tuscany meets Florida, rustic wood and sunshine. And quite frankly the free tasting isn't bad either ; )

Viagra Central

2007-01-16T18:19:00.000-05:00

So today I was hanging out at The Villages, reading, The Tender Bar, waiting for Judy to finish a meeting. I was in one of the community/club houses, was a nice space to sit and read a book...and people watch. I couldn't help but remember the stories that ran over the internet a last year about all the increased sexual activity and high rate of venereal disease. I became aware the room was blue...very blue and the radio station kept playing "date" music and the women where stopping to check their look in the mirror by where I was sitting and the clothes on some of them were what I would have called Liberty Street specials!

A day that you learn something is a day not wasted...I've learned that the "senior" in senior community might not be referring to age as much as to experience!

Animal Kingdom Comes

2007-01-16T18:17:00.000-05:00

So here I am in Florida. Wrapped up a conference and followed it with a day at Disney's Animal Kingdom. And it was a good day. I have to admit it, commercialism at its most slick, are the Disney parks, they create wants or "perceived needs" very smoothly. I was better than on past excursions to "the happiest place on earth", but of course laid down some coin going through the park, not as much as I could have definitely, but enough. We were in luck with the weather, because although it was a rainy morning, it was cool and the animals were all out for the viewing. On our safari ride some of them even came right up to the trucks...not the ones that can eat you, the vegetarians : ) I got some great shots or at least the look good on that little window on the back of the camera.

In the first time in a month or more I chilled out, and was amazed that my thoughts could turn beyond what's the latest crisis at work and what needs ripped down, painted or repaired at home. So as we were walking around the gorilla exhibits, I couldn't help but note how much we are like these animals. I'm a theological evolutionist or whatever the bishops say you're allowed to be because quite frankly if you spend any time watching and reflecting, we're animals who God at some point in our history plunked souls into! The way the family groups relate, what they do to provide for their troop-mates, how their mannerisms are just so like humans. I got a good picture of a nine year old male stopping to take a drink from the stream with his cupped hand. How many times have I done something similar from the tap in the bathroom? And the family group. While "Dad" slept, one of the "Mom's" (how sadly like us that is too, anyway) sat there attending her children, while he slept (napped in a recliner in front of the T.V.)

Males must leave the troop around 14 or so to go and hang out with other bachelors (frat houses) or entice a female and begin a troop of his own (dating and mating all in one package). Gorillas mate for life, I never thought of having more than one mate at a time as mating for life, but that's because when the one female has a baby she won't get pregnant again for another 4-5 years so she can take care of the baby she has! Again not too different from humans...well some humans.

Merry Christmas!

2006-12-25T04:35:00.000-05:00

This evening we celebrated, "post sun down" as defined by our archdiocese, the joyous event of Christmas Eve. I worked the two Masses I was assigned of course with children, and there was some craziness with the celebrations that I'd say only a select few noted once we got started, which is optimal. My role is usually behind the scenes and I hold my breath through most of it. When the Masses came to their ends, everything had sailed without much of a hiccup.

But it struck me that with all the getting ready, finishing out classes, and then all the hyperness of the Masses, did I welcome Jesus? How do I even do that when throughout the Mass I'm preoccupied with what's coming next and scouting for trouble to head it off at the pass? That was the question that bopped around my head, and I was quite frustrated by it. Then tonight, this morning I guess, I realized a big part of it for me is letting go of formalities as I've defined them, and welcoming friends, letting His love in through the eyes, expressions and hugs from others. That's where I'm finding Christ-mas. That's how I welcome Him into my heart.

May all our hearts, open to receive Him and do something with that love to benefit others.

2006-12-21T11:55:00.000-05:00

Haven't blogged or emailed in forever...again. Did finally catch up on my best friend's blog and found this quiz...stay away from Mt. Dew - Oh no! I can't have been myself when answering those questions.

You Are 7 Up

Understated and subtle, people warm up to you slowly.

But once they're hooked, they can't imagine going back to anyone else!

Your best soda match: Diet Coke

Stay away from: Mountain Dew

What Kind of Soda Are You?

Broccoli and Cheese Casserole

2006-12-08T23:52:00.000-05:00

My sister has been asking for this recipe for the past week. Check the previous post ; )
So here is the listing based on a recipe submitted by Helen Reynolds found in Vegetables section of the Chartiers-Houston Community Library Cook Book of 1990, Houston Pennsylvania. You won't believe what's in the Miscellaneous section!

(I of course have made some changes, starting with the title.)

Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
1 regular sized bag frozen broccoli crowns
1 cup "Minute" rice or other rice (but why take the time?)
1 cup minced to chopped onion (two words - 1. food 2. processor)
2 regular cans cream of mushrooms (not the hugemongous family sized things)
1 jar of "Cheez Whiz" (you can use the lower fat too, but seriously why?)
Colby jack shredded cheese for topping

Cook the rice, place in large bowl-enough to mix all the above ingredients. Saute the onion in a couple of tablespoons of butter. Mix the rice, Cheez Whiz, mushroom soup, onions and broccoli together and put into a sprayed 9 x13 casserole. Scatter the shredded cheese on top. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 - 60 minutes or until it's all bubbly and goldenesque on the top. Let cool slightly before serving.
(It's always better the next day - so says my husband.)

***My version is a doubled version of the first, and it's gotta look and feel right. As you might have guessed, I'm not much into recipes, so best if you come by my house and watch me make it, then try it at your house!

The original recipe also calls for 1 cup chopped celery, one stick margarine into the mix, and slivered almonds on the top with the cheese, but I don't remember Jeff's Auntie Ann putting that stuff in, so I don't either, but if you want to, go right ahead.

She was right, I was...wrong.

2006-12-08T23:07:00.000-05:00

It's been forever since I've posted. My "wife" today told me I only check my mail like once a week and was kind enough not to mention the last time I posted. I of course said "NAHHHHH" I check my home email way more than that...but she was right. I haven't had the inclination to check when I've gotten home, it's been late and dinner and dishes and....we don't even have kids. Well not any little ones...

But I'm going to try to keep up mostly because 68 emails is a lot to take at one time, but the spam blocker thank God works well! Unlike the one at work where we average 68 emails a day! And most of them are for stock options and male enhancements. I don't even look at the subject lines anymore.

So in readying the "wife's" blog, which I do much more often than post to my own, I saw this quiz. Good news for all you friends out there. Not looking so hot for my current work vocation...

Which Positive Quality Are You? Your Result: Love You are Love. Love is the glue that binds us all together. The love of family, the love of friends, the love between husbands and their wives--these things form the foundation of our happiness, our security, and our comfort. "All you need is love."
Friendship
Courage
Charity
Peace
Faith
Which Positive Quality Are You?

Other notes:

For those of you who know Mom, she's doing much better. Getting along with the walker well and starting to go back to physical therapy. Each day is an adventure and my new phrase is..."I'm a ray of sunshine." O.K. it's really "I'm just a freak'n ray of sunshine" while forcing a smile. But it's a smile : )

I am planning on driving the streets of our fair hamlet looking for the Christmas lights, photographing them and sharing them on the blog. I've seen some doozies (how do you spell that word anyway?)

I've taken to cantoring at the funerals this week- singing for the dead - Yep that's my new avocation! Like I "needed something else to do" - that was from my staff. "Finally, I get to tell her what to do"- from our Music Minister! Seriously, I enjoy working out the vocal muscles again, remembering that I really can sing and if burying the dead is a spiritual work of mercy, then I figure singing for them, well that's just icing on the "works cake"!

Jon Bon Jovi

2006-11-10T22:18:00.000-05:00

is so right!
"i've been there, done that, i ain't looking that it's been a long long road feels like i've never left, that's how the story goes."

I was just giving directions to friend who's visiting Steubenville University in OH with his high school senior daughter. They have a few hours to kill tomorrow before the plane trip back and he wanted to know what were "the not to miss things to do in Pittsburgh." I thought of an incline ride and a view from Mount Washington or the Carnegie Museum or the Strip District (not that kind of strip) and then went on-line to get him directions with actual street names, as I navigate by land marks. Good if you live some place and are familiar, a recipe for getting very lost if you're not.

As this friend is uberefficient, he was looking at a detailed map while talking with me, and the first land mark he mentioned, was Magee Women's Hospital where my sister and I were birthed. And I was caught up in wave of bitter sweet homesickness that was almost palatable. My mind started racing back through my life, being little living in Pittsburgh's Squirrel Hill, the Jewish section of town. I remembered my dad carrying me on my shoulders, down the hill past Poli's to a great little Jewish deli for bagels and lox. Talking about sights in the Golden Triangle (where the three rivers come together ) reminded me where my dad parked his car for like 20 years along the river that would get flooded out, but never flooded where he parked because he'd studied the flood plane. It was risky, but "if you investigate and pay attention you can save yourself $5 week." He'd tell us. The semiannual treks to "down town" on the bus to visit dad at his office and go to lunch at the Top of the Triangle or some other really cool restaurant. And as I made these comments with joy and some tears in my voice, my friend said " it sounds like you had a lot of good times with your dad growing up."

I began thinking that a big part of a place always being home is not so much the place itself, but the people you were with when you lived there. As I type this tears are flowing down my face, because after I got off the phone I remembered the last place I was with my dad - Allegheny Cemetery. I like living where we do now and we've been blessed with so many wonderful friends, and experiences we wouldn't have had if we'd have stayed at home... but it's nice to know that in the span of one conversation "you can take the home from the girl, but not the girl from her home."

Political Junkie

2006-11-08T00:59:00.000-05:00

I just can't help myself. I should be in bed asleep. I have a meeting downtown tomorrow, but it's like a guilty pleasure. Maybe it's the seasons of "The West Wing", but this race for the Senate has captured my interest. And it's not just because the Democrats have won the House. Although it certainly is a plus.

(O.K. for the record I am listed as a Republican, which is the party I choose at 18, because my grandmother said we had to be Republicans to break the political machine in Pittsburgh! It made me feel all Norma Rae...)

That aside, I think what's putting "the jam in my jelly roll", so to speak is that I have witnessed the huge lines of people waiting to vote all day. It started this morning, voting in our little precinct house when I had to wait 50 minutes and continued in the afternoon when my husband topped my wait at an hour. Then, we have polling at the parish hall and all day it was non stop; can't get a parking space; parking in the grass and up the circle; wall to wall cars. Every time I looked out my office window it was a steady line of bodies across the front glass doors. That stir of patriotism even if it's of the "disgruntled get the bums out of office" type of patriotism of which my boss is not fond, has me jazzed. And might I just say, and well yes I think I will, a woman as Speaker of the House! YES!!! You know that's what - two seats from the presidency? And today with what all goes on it's pretty possible, pretty possible indeed. I think my estrogen is doing tiny, yet meaningful victory laps around my ovaries.

We've had a visit from...Flat Stanley!

2006-11-06T23:21:00.000-05:00

We've been host to a wonderful "guest" - Flat Stanley - on here from New Hampshire. He's been a delight and loves to meet new people and explore new places...check out what he's been up to.

"I wonder if I should get a job while I'm here, free lunches?"

Flat Stanley meets the Fishman twins Mabel and Bleu!

"Dinner out and your treat! I'm there."

Solving the problems of the day...

"There's nothing like a ride in the country! Hey girls, where are my headphones?"

"Lullaby and Good Night...let sleeping dogs lie I always say, especially that Chloe!"

"How do I get myself into these things? Nice bear..."

"Just a little higher please."

"Now these are my kind of people."

" Sweet tea...yummy, thanks for sharing!"

"A football game - awesome! I hope I can get to the concession stands at half time."

"I've had a great time, but it's time to head back to N.H....on the road again, I just can't wait to get on the road again... Good bye!"

Just finished

2006-10-31T01:49:00.000-05:00

I feel like I've been gone from the blog scene for forever, here's some ramblings, catch-up and thoughts.

Just finished revising the size of all the pictures being used in a power point for Wed All Saints event. Promises to be a lot of fun 4:30-6:30pm. With a parade of saints into the Mass at 7p.

Shout out of thanks to Begs for the digital photo book for my b-day. It's coming in quite handy already.

Mom is still recuperating at the rehab facility. Visits, phone calls and cards are all welcome. The other day she hopped three feet one way and three feet in return using the walker. Big progress. They're going to work on her getting up the two steps into the house and transferring from the wheel chair to the bed etc. and when she comes home hopefully will feel and be much more confident in her movements. Still not sure if we'll need in home health care, but I'll jump off that bridge when I get to it : )

Got to meet our new goddaughter today and hold her....dubbed her "Sweet Pea". Her mom says she called her the same name at the doctor's office the other day and it took with the staff there too. She's a sweetie!

On the trying to relax front -
Vacation at the beach. Cute hotel, good weather, lots of " on the beach time" - a chair, umbrella and a good murder mystery....ah.

Went to the Falcon's Steelers game - the Steelers lost, guess how relaxing that was? Great seats though.

Went on a trek to a pumpkin patch with friends and hit an apple orchard on the way home. It was so exciting, I know nerd, but I picked out a like 1/2 bushel of apples...so the pies, dumpling and sauce are on their way. Rome Beauties, Granny Smith's, Fugis, Wine Saps, Golden Delicious and the much touted Pink Ladies...Exquisite. Thank you Judes for turning me on to world of apples!

Reading the second book of a new mystery series, The Fourth Bear by Jasper Fforde. They're Nursery Crime Division based on Nursery Rhyme characters and blended with modern day detecting, amusing and some what literary worth while. First One is the Big Over Easy - Humpty Dumpty he didn't just have a great fall...

Have a few pumpkins to carve - Maude, Phillip and Murphy - gigantic to petitest.

It's the day of Halloween and I still haven't caught one vampire flick - B movie or otherwise...such a waste. You can keep your Freddie Krugers, Jasons, Carries and assorted other horror flick characters, but there's just something about a good vampire flick that entertains in that "keeps you up with the lights on all night" but boy you enjoyed the picture kind of way. Maybe it's all the Freudian influences or the kind of like the thrill of riding the roller coaster, or death drop at the amusement park, you know you'll be scared and you just can't wait for it or maybe that Frank Langela is just hunky? Best for Scariest even thought it's from the pre talkie era is Nosferatu....chilling

Seriously I've always loved the spooky, carving the pumpkin, dressing up and trick or treating that was Halloween. And as an adult, add not having to cook an elaborate meal for family like some of the other holidays on our social calendar. Even the year my mom dressed me and my sister up as twin born 5 years apart, green Martian bunnies - glorified green fleece footy pajamas, but I loved it. So what's your favorite just for the fun of it holiday and why?

Ah, the joys of homeownership

2006-09-23T02:04:00.000-04:00

I am finally beginning to give in to this house and really try to get it painted and some changes, cosmetic mostly to make it some place I actually want to live.

I went out to buy some frames for some really great old pictures that were unearthed recently- early 19oo's etc. I was searching for just the right look to make the pictures pop and keep the money under control so I could do all of them at once. I was planning to go back to Hobby Lobby to take advantage of the 50% sale on said frames that ends tomorrow. But I forgot one thing that when all is well, beware the Fates. In the bathroom while performing my nightly ablutions, I noticed that in front of our circa 1978 toilet, we had a small light blue lake. A delightful find when one is wandering through the forest, but in front of one's commode at 1am, it lacks that air of discovery.

Now for those of you that know me, dealing with the porcelain god this is enough to throw me into a complete tiz, but add to that the cheap floor tile the previous owner had laid down three and a half years ago which is now bubbling up, and well, I lost it.

My husband comes home and I am in the midst of my cleaning and sanitizing said area, and he asks me..."Whatcha doin' babe?" An innocuous question if I'm sitting reading a book, but at 1am in the bathroom, with the arsenal of cleaning equipment assembled...well, I realize it's moments like this that I'm glad we're married in the Church, bonded by Christ in a sacramental relationship, because if we were living together...I mean what really holds those relationships together?

Anyway I rant digressively, tomorrow we go to the local home emporium to peruse toilets and flooring material and then try to decide if we can DYI or hire someone. And I tackle with the fact that though the design sense is grand plans, the budget is meager chic. I'll need some kind of tranquilizers before this project is through.

I tried beta and came back

2006-09-16T01:55:00.000-04:00

I tried the Beta Version and felt limited. My b.F. had a point, "you've gone to beta and you haven't even figured out how to use the original version?" When she's right, she's right.

Besides, when she or I wanted to post a comment in each other's blogs, we had to log in as anonymous. Who wants that?

I'm going to keep both for a little while, then switch over to this one. Easier to post and hey who can argue with their best friend?