Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Hurricane Katrina. I guess I knew that it was bad, because Father has prayed for it every morning and Mass for the past three days, and when I looked it up last night, it looked rather devastating; however, after sitting down and actually looking at it and taking it in, I am left nearly speechless. I don't know what to say - it's unimaginable to conceive that New Orleans is under so much water with such destruction and horrendous damage and loss. Granted items can be replaced, the monetary loss means little to me. It's the death toll and suffering that is horrible to me. I cannot imagine the experiences these people are having trying to find their family members - parents, spouses, children, etc. God help them.
On a much different note: it looks like we will be having two of the Sisters of Life come out to give presentations and hang out here at school some time soon! I am very excited, as I am the one in charge of the whole business! Thank God for such a tremendous blessing.
Well, I'm going to hit the hay - not really into chatting about nonsense tonight.
Caritas et veritas.
On a much different note: it looks like we will be having two of the Sisters of Life come out to give presentations and hang out here at school some time soon! I am very excited, as I am the one in charge of the whole business! Thank God for such a tremendous blessing.
Well, I'm going to hit the hay - not really into chatting about nonsense tonight.
Caritas et veritas.
Total devastation.
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Today I only had one class. And from it, I gleaned this:
If you had the opportunity to be genetically tested and find out if you have genetic diseases lurking in your body, awaiting the opportunity to manifest themselves...would you get tested? And if you did find that you have diseases, would you tell others? Would you not marry? Would you not have children? What would you do?
And the answer, eloquently stated by guys in my roommate, Victoria's group:
"Dude, I'd go to parties. And jump up on stage. And drink a lot."
Yes, my friends. The meaning of life summed up in a nutshell. Parties, drinking and being wild.
Argh! Seriously, are you incapable of thinking on a deeper level? Like, should I have pity on your inadequate brain capacity, or should I scoff at your ridiculous juvenile behavior? I'm torn here.
Anyway, as you can tell (I'm sure), the class will be rather interesting. I'm very glad that we have an ethics professor (and a good one, at that) to join in on the biological discussion, because sometimes science confuses me when it comes to issues as intense as genetics and the technicalities that go along with all of that. It's major stuff! I am really looking forward to the class.
I MUST go to bed. I was terribly restless this morning during my holy hour because of lack of sleep.
Caritas et veritas.
If you had the opportunity to be genetically tested and find out if you have genetic diseases lurking in your body, awaiting the opportunity to manifest themselves...would you get tested? And if you did find that you have diseases, would you tell others? Would you not marry? Would you not have children? What would you do?
And the answer, eloquently stated by guys in my roommate, Victoria's group:
"Dude, I'd go to parties. And jump up on stage. And drink a lot."
Yes, my friends. The meaning of life summed up in a nutshell. Parties, drinking and being wild.
Argh! Seriously, are you incapable of thinking on a deeper level? Like, should I have pity on your inadequate brain capacity, or should I scoff at your ridiculous juvenile behavior? I'm torn here.
Anyway, as you can tell (I'm sure), the class will be rather interesting. I'm very glad that we have an ethics professor (and a good one, at that) to join in on the biological discussion, because sometimes science confuses me when it comes to issues as intense as genetics and the technicalities that go along with all of that. It's major stuff! I am really looking forward to the class.
I MUST go to bed. I was terribly restless this morning during my holy hour because of lack of sleep.
Caritas et veritas.
Monday, August 29, 2005
Today we had our first all-day Eucharistic Adoration beginning with Morning Prayer bit. It was wonderful! I lead Morning Prayer, and Father played the song on the organ (huge step up from our pitiful morning voices). So I ended up staying until it was time to run to Christian Sexual Morality class (a total of about 1hr 20min). What an AMAZING way to start the day! I know that this is going to have a huge impact on this campus. Wonderful things will happen. The door has been opened in a way that this campus has never seen before, and wonderful graces will flow! God cannot be outdone in generosity - whatever we give Him, He repays us in ways we cannot begin to imagine! I am so excited! Deo Gratias!!
So, as the President of the Pro-life club here at school I am beginning to consider the task at hand for the rest of the year, and it's looking like it's going to be...interesting. We will not be going to the March for Life as previously planned because of the FOCUS Conference; however, we are hopefully having two of the Sisters of Life come out to speak for the students. By the grace of God we will hopefully be more well-known on campus, and the attendance by students will be greater than I am expecting as of now. I want to really make this campus alive with the culture of life; my heart breaks when I see/hear of the terrible things that some students are involved in. I hope to be able to bring at least a little hope, love and joy to this campus through the message of the Gospel of Life. It is no small task, I guarantee you, but I am stoked to see what can happen with just a little bit of courage, a little bit of organization and a lot of prayer.
So I've been reading about Elizabeth's experiences with her flatmates, and I have been thinking about how people can be, with their opinions of how the Church needs to be. I have been dealing with that with some certain people (no specifics), and it is very difficult indeed! I guess the only consolation a person can have is when she receives encouragement from trusted friends, or even affirmations from people she's only known a short time. For example, today I received a letter from a friend who is a Dominican sister. She told me that she hopes that I never lose the zeal for the Faith that she saw in me while spending a few days with me this summer. Over the course of a few days, she saw zeal. For the Faith! Hearing that makes me so excited, and gives me the energy and hope to keep on keepin' on. Sometimes we have to be "little things" people. To me, this was God's way of saying "keep at it, kiddo. you'll get there, someday. it's a process, remember?". And I love that. Perhaps that's why I love St. Therese so much. She was so small and humble and realized that there was no way she could ever accomplish great things, yet she was so filled with missionary zeal that she did whatever she felt compelled by God to do in her small capacity - and this made her one of the greatest saints (and my personal favorite!). Actually, as I sit here writing this, I am looking at 5 different images of her (a statue, pencil drawing, tapestry, stuffed bear with her image embroidered on it, and poster) all on my desk. She's amazing. I have a holy card that has a quote by her on the backside of it, and that was my prayer today at adoration:
"Because I was small and weak, Jesus stooped down to me and in secret taught me the marvels of His love."
Only in being little and submitting to the will of God can we learn the marvelous love of God. And this will fill us with zeal for the Faith, and for souls!
As St. Dominic used to say, "Have zeal for souls, my sons!".
I don't know exactly where I was heading with this, other than trying to state that dissent can be discouraging, especially when you love the Church and all Her beauty with your entire being; however, we must continue to be firm in our Faith, and to spread the love of God so as to draw others nearer to God. As it says in Matthew 5:16, "Let your light shine before all men, that they may see your good deeds and give glory to your Father".
Caritas et veritas.
So, as the President of the Pro-life club here at school I am beginning to consider the task at hand for the rest of the year, and it's looking like it's going to be...interesting. We will not be going to the March for Life as previously planned because of the FOCUS Conference; however, we are hopefully having two of the Sisters of Life come out to speak for the students. By the grace of God we will hopefully be more well-known on campus, and the attendance by students will be greater than I am expecting as of now. I want to really make this campus alive with the culture of life; my heart breaks when I see/hear of the terrible things that some students are involved in. I hope to be able to bring at least a little hope, love and joy to this campus through the message of the Gospel of Life. It is no small task, I guarantee you, but I am stoked to see what can happen with just a little bit of courage, a little bit of organization and a lot of prayer.
So I've been reading about Elizabeth's experiences with her flatmates, and I have been thinking about how people can be, with their opinions of how the Church needs to be. I have been dealing with that with some certain people (no specifics), and it is very difficult indeed! I guess the only consolation a person can have is when she receives encouragement from trusted friends, or even affirmations from people she's only known a short time. For example, today I received a letter from a friend who is a Dominican sister. She told me that she hopes that I never lose the zeal for the Faith that she saw in me while spending a few days with me this summer. Over the course of a few days, she saw zeal. For the Faith! Hearing that makes me so excited, and gives me the energy and hope to keep on keepin' on. Sometimes we have to be "little things" people. To me, this was God's way of saying "keep at it, kiddo. you'll get there, someday. it's a process, remember?". And I love that. Perhaps that's why I love St. Therese so much. She was so small and humble and realized that there was no way she could ever accomplish great things, yet she was so filled with missionary zeal that she did whatever she felt compelled by God to do in her small capacity - and this made her one of the greatest saints (and my personal favorite!). Actually, as I sit here writing this, I am looking at 5 different images of her (a statue, pencil drawing, tapestry, stuffed bear with her image embroidered on it, and poster) all on my desk. She's amazing. I have a holy card that has a quote by her on the backside of it, and that was my prayer today at adoration:
"Because I was small and weak, Jesus stooped down to me and in secret taught me the marvels of His love."
Only in being little and submitting to the will of God can we learn the marvelous love of God. And this will fill us with zeal for the Faith, and for souls!
As St. Dominic used to say, "Have zeal for souls, my sons!".
I don't know exactly where I was heading with this, other than trying to state that dissent can be discouraging, especially when you love the Church and all Her beauty with your entire being; however, we must continue to be firm in our Faith, and to spread the love of God so as to draw others nearer to God. As it says in Matthew 5:16, "Let your light shine before all men, that they may see your good deeds and give glory to your Father".
Caritas et veritas.
Sunday, August 28, 2005
No post last night on account of how tired I was upon going to bed. It was a loooong day. I helped the new first-year students move in, then helped with the Welcome Mass, then went to a comedian (who was a big fan of low humor...boo). Then the flatmates all came back and vegetated in front of the TV until we were too tired to go to bed. Oh dear.
Anyway, today was much more fun. We went to Target together and got some great steals at the $1 spot, which was on clearance...2 for $1! Yesss! Then Beth and I went to Hy-Vee for groceries, which was fun except I am very ADD when shopping, and it took a long time...because of me. Anyway, on our way back we picked up a chair on the side of the road that said "Free". Beth put it in the trunk and I drove really slowly while she ran behind the car. Eventually she just jumped in and rode along with it. She dragged the chair up the stairs, we Febreezed it, and it's looking wonderful. ;) Then we went down to the Mississippi and took our shoes off and danced on the beach. The sand felt wonderful. We skipped rocks and played in the water. And Beth made a duck out of clay, named Duckie. I made a fish out of clay, named Sven. We left them there to be friends on the shoreline. Then Beth made us stir-fry (delish!) and we watched Extreme Makeover: Home Edition (aka "the show with the people"). We all went over to Mass afterwards. On the way there, we sang "Goin' on a Bear Hunt"...for no reason at all. When we got back from Mass, Mindy decided to go out and look at the stars, so we all went out and laid our blankets out and giggled and stargazed like 12 year olds. It was so much fun. We attempted to talk to the katydids, pondered where the star shape came from (why the points? stars don't really look like that!), attempted to sing (the only song we could think of of was Twinkle Twinkle Little Star...and Kumbaya)...it was craziness. Then there was a weird noise in the tree and I said "Did anyone hear that noise in the tree?" and Mindy said "It was probably a bunny". We almost died laughing. Supposedly she thought I said "Did anyone hear that noise?" (without the tree part)...but it was hilarious nonetheless. Bunnies in trees. Hehe. All in all, a wonderful evening.
Tomorrow begins classes. My first class, at 9am, is my Christian Sexual Morality class, which we have taken to calling "Christian Sex". (Funny side note: Tonight at dinner, we were discussing how much fun we're having together, and how classes are going to be not so fun...and Roommate X says "We don't even have to go to class. We can have Christian Sex here!"...which to the uninformed ear would be really awkward...but to us...it was hilarious). Anyway, the class ought to be interesting. Following that is Mundo Hispano, my last Spanish minor credit. Then Human Genetics, and Art. Woo hoo.
And the most exciting part! Starting tomorrow, Father is going to have Eucharistic Adoration for us every day from 7:30 (for Morning Prayer) until 4pm (right before Mass). How awesome is that? We've never had anything like this before! And he wants me to head up the planning and organization of having someone to cover each time slot. He said he'd like me to "make an announcement". I'd like to do that as much as I'd like to have my teeth pulled...but hey, for our Eucharistic Lord...I guess I can't back down. It should be wonderful. God will shower graces on this campus like mad! Come Lord Jesus, be our Guest!
Well, I must get to bed...can't miss the first morning of Morning Prayer/Eucharistic Adoration on account of the fact that I was just too silly to get to bed earlier!
Hopefully tomorrow I'll find time to post about something more substantial. I've got ideas, but too little focus to sit and type them out. It'll happen!
Caritas et veritas!!
Anyway, today was much more fun. We went to Target together and got some great steals at the $1 spot, which was on clearance...2 for $1! Yesss! Then Beth and I went to Hy-Vee for groceries, which was fun except I am very ADD when shopping, and it took a long time...because of me. Anyway, on our way back we picked up a chair on the side of the road that said "Free". Beth put it in the trunk and I drove really slowly while she ran behind the car. Eventually she just jumped in and rode along with it. She dragged the chair up the stairs, we Febreezed it, and it's looking wonderful. ;) Then we went down to the Mississippi and took our shoes off and danced on the beach. The sand felt wonderful. We skipped rocks and played in the water. And Beth made a duck out of clay, named Duckie. I made a fish out of clay, named Sven. We left them there to be friends on the shoreline. Then Beth made us stir-fry (delish!) and we watched Extreme Makeover: Home Edition (aka "the show with the people"). We all went over to Mass afterwards. On the way there, we sang "Goin' on a Bear Hunt"...for no reason at all. When we got back from Mass, Mindy decided to go out and look at the stars, so we all went out and laid our blankets out and giggled and stargazed like 12 year olds. It was so much fun. We attempted to talk to the katydids, pondered where the star shape came from (why the points? stars don't really look like that!), attempted to sing (the only song we could think of of was Twinkle Twinkle Little Star...and Kumbaya)...it was craziness. Then there was a weird noise in the tree and I said "Did anyone hear that noise in the tree?" and Mindy said "It was probably a bunny". We almost died laughing. Supposedly she thought I said "Did anyone hear that noise?" (without the tree part)...but it was hilarious nonetheless. Bunnies in trees. Hehe. All in all, a wonderful evening.
Tomorrow begins classes. My first class, at 9am, is my Christian Sexual Morality class, which we have taken to calling "Christian Sex". (Funny side note: Tonight at dinner, we were discussing how much fun we're having together, and how classes are going to be not so fun...and Roommate X says "We don't even have to go to class. We can have Christian Sex here!"...which to the uninformed ear would be really awkward...but to us...it was hilarious). Anyway, the class ought to be interesting. Following that is Mundo Hispano, my last Spanish minor credit. Then Human Genetics, and Art. Woo hoo.
And the most exciting part! Starting tomorrow, Father is going to have Eucharistic Adoration for us every day from 7:30 (for Morning Prayer) until 4pm (right before Mass). How awesome is that? We've never had anything like this before! And he wants me to head up the planning and organization of having someone to cover each time slot. He said he'd like me to "make an announcement". I'd like to do that as much as I'd like to have my teeth pulled...but hey, for our Eucharistic Lord...I guess I can't back down. It should be wonderful. God will shower graces on this campus like mad! Come Lord Jesus, be our Guest!
Well, I must get to bed...can't miss the first morning of Morning Prayer/Eucharistic Adoration on account of the fact that I was just too silly to get to bed earlier!
Hopefully tomorrow I'll find time to post about something more substantial. I've got ideas, but too little focus to sit and type them out. It'll happen!
Caritas et veritas!!
Saturday, August 27, 2005
Great day with the flatmates.
We woke up and ate breakfast together and watched Sesame Street. It was fabulous. Then we all kind of went our separate ways for the day, and came together at Mass. Mass was wonderful. After Mass we went shopping for our roommate dinner supplies. We made delicious chicken fajitas, with all the fixins. I was seriously impressed with our collaborative cooking effort. We are awesome. The dinner was wonderful and we had Andrea's birthday cake for dessert. Yum. Then we went to Best Buy to turn on the fun and get a wireless router. Woot. And off to Goodwill. I got puzzles and books. One of the puzzles was a Puzz 3D knockoff brand - only $2! It was the Millennium edition of Times Square, and it was unopened! Amazing! So I bought it, and we just spent the last (quite nearly) 2 hours putting it together. Because clearly that is what all the cool college kids do on Friday night. :)
And in the words of my flatmate Mindy:
"It glows in the dark? Shoot! You got a steal!" :) Hehe. Yes, I did.
Sad note: Tonight was the biggest football game of the year for my high school football team. My brother, being captain, was pumped for the game. He'd been talking about it for weeks. Barely into the game (3rd down) he broke his fibula. Now he's out for 6-8 weeks. :( I feel so sorry for the guy - that is just plain awful.
Good note: We won! 35-0. Take that, Pretzels!!! (yes, that is their name) Yay Titans!!!
Ok, freshman move-in day tomorrow. Time to hit the hay so I can carry big boxes.
Heck yes, we're Duhawks!!
Caritas et veritas.
We woke up and ate breakfast together and watched Sesame Street. It was fabulous. Then we all kind of went our separate ways for the day, and came together at Mass. Mass was wonderful. After Mass we went shopping for our roommate dinner supplies. We made delicious chicken fajitas, with all the fixins. I was seriously impressed with our collaborative cooking effort. We are awesome. The dinner was wonderful and we had Andrea's birthday cake for dessert. Yum. Then we went to Best Buy to turn on the fun and get a wireless router. Woot. And off to Goodwill. I got puzzles and books. One of the puzzles was a Puzz 3D knockoff brand - only $2! It was the Millennium edition of Times Square, and it was unopened! Amazing! So I bought it, and we just spent the last (quite nearly) 2 hours putting it together. Because clearly that is what all the cool college kids do on Friday night. :)
And in the words of my flatmate Mindy:
"It glows in the dark? Shoot! You got a steal!" :) Hehe. Yes, I did.
Sad note: Tonight was the biggest football game of the year for my high school football team. My brother, being captain, was pumped for the game. He'd been talking about it for weeks. Barely into the game (3rd down) he broke his fibula. Now he's out for 6-8 weeks. :( I feel so sorry for the guy - that is just plain awful.
Good note: We won! 35-0. Take that, Pretzels!!! (yes, that is their name) Yay Titans!!!
Ok, freshman move-in day tomorrow. Time to hit the hay so I can carry big boxes.
Heck yes, we're Duhawks!!
Caritas et veritas.
Thursday, August 25, 2005
I am at Loras!! YAY!!
And my flatmates are wonderful. The two that were already here had everything all decorated and organized when I arrived this morning. They are so good. And it didn't take very long to unpack all of my things, which is always exciting. I have so much more room than I'm used to - it's unreal! I love it!
So, Mass was wonderful. What better way to reconnect with people you haven't seen all summer? I ran into most of my good friends there, and we went out for dinner afterwards. It was really fun. I missed everyone so much! And Father's homily was, of course, priceless. He has the best homilies, I think.
Classes start Monday, and I'm not too worried. I have only 15 credits this semester (which is REALLY low for me), so I'm kind of excited. I will have time to enjoy things a bit more. Yay. Except for my crazy Christian Sexual Ethics class. I ran into the professor today...and well, we'll just have to see. Oy vey.
OH!! I nearly forgot! I good Dominican friend is no longer Patrick (or as I knew him, Jack) - he is now Brother Dominic!! YAY! I am so happy he's Dominic...that name fits him perfectly. I am so happy for him! Congratulations Brother Dominic! Deo Gratias! I might post a picture of him if I get one...we'll see.
And the MOST exciting part about my room here at Loras - I have EWTN in my bedroom! I can watch it ALL DAY if I want. AND ALL NIGHT. I might have died and gone to heaven. :) I jest, although I am very excited. We never had real channels until this year, and it's so amazing.
Well, I think I might actually get to bed early (how crazy is that?) so that I can enjoy the next few days and be well-rested. Yay.
So good to be back!
Caritas et veritas!!!
And my flatmates are wonderful. The two that were already here had everything all decorated and organized when I arrived this morning. They are so good. And it didn't take very long to unpack all of my things, which is always exciting. I have so much more room than I'm used to - it's unreal! I love it!
So, Mass was wonderful. What better way to reconnect with people you haven't seen all summer? I ran into most of my good friends there, and we went out for dinner afterwards. It was really fun. I missed everyone so much! And Father's homily was, of course, priceless. He has the best homilies, I think.
Classes start Monday, and I'm not too worried. I have only 15 credits this semester (which is REALLY low for me), so I'm kind of excited. I will have time to enjoy things a bit more. Yay. Except for my crazy Christian Sexual Ethics class. I ran into the professor today...and well, we'll just have to see. Oy vey.
OH!! I nearly forgot! I good Dominican friend is no longer Patrick (or as I knew him, Jack) - he is now Brother Dominic!! YAY! I am so happy he's Dominic...that name fits him perfectly. I am so happy for him! Congratulations Brother Dominic! Deo Gratias! I might post a picture of him if I get one...we'll see.
And the MOST exciting part about my room here at Loras - I have EWTN in my bedroom! I can watch it ALL DAY if I want. AND ALL NIGHT. I might have died and gone to heaven. :) I jest, although I am very excited. We never had real channels until this year, and it's so amazing.
Well, I think I might actually get to bed early (how crazy is that?) so that I can enjoy the next few days and be well-rested. Yay.
So good to be back!
Caritas et veritas!!!
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
Boy is it chilly here! 60 degrees right now. Brrr. My friend Erin and I were having our usual coffee and magazines date at Barnes & Nobles, but we had to leave early because they had the air conditioning on and it was just toooo cold! Imagine that, especially after this summer...it was too cold! Oy...we just can never be happy.
Today I packed mostly everything I need. I'm quite near ready to go. Which is wonderful. I'm looking forward to heading over to Loras in 1 day! Tomorrow's my last day in Rockford, and I'm very happy for it. I am so excited to move in with my flatmates (that has a nice ring to it, and is endorsed by Elizabeth). Two of the five are already there, and I'm sooo anxious to join them. It is kind of crazy to me, however, that school actually starts in a few days. I feel like I forgot what it's like to be in class every day. Summer was DEFINITELY too long this time. ;)
So the news story of the day is the Asian bigheaded carp (I'm not making that up) that was caught in the Rock River, here in Rockford. Supposedly they can get up to 88 lbs. and are fast multipliers. The craziest thing about them is that they get all stirred up by boat motor noise and jump out of the water. And when I say "jump" I mean jump. These things fly probably 10 feet out of the water, and when they're around 88 lbs, they can knock people out of their boats. Clearly this is a problem that Rockford needs to address!! I can't find a picture worth sharing, so look it up yourself if you really care. They're pretty ugly.
Tomorrow is bonding day with my mom. We're going to shop and hang out and stuff. Should be fun.
One day until Loras!!
Caritas et veritas.
Today I packed mostly everything I need. I'm quite near ready to go. Which is wonderful. I'm looking forward to heading over to Loras in 1 day! Tomorrow's my last day in Rockford, and I'm very happy for it. I am so excited to move in with my flatmates (that has a nice ring to it, and is endorsed by Elizabeth). Two of the five are already there, and I'm sooo anxious to join them. It is kind of crazy to me, however, that school actually starts in a few days. I feel like I forgot what it's like to be in class every day. Summer was DEFINITELY too long this time. ;)
So the news story of the day is the Asian bigheaded carp (I'm not making that up) that was caught in the Rock River, here in Rockford. Supposedly they can get up to 88 lbs. and are fast multipliers. The craziest thing about them is that they get all stirred up by boat motor noise and jump out of the water. And when I say "jump" I mean jump. These things fly probably 10 feet out of the water, and when they're around 88 lbs, they can knock people out of their boats. Clearly this is a problem that Rockford needs to address!! I can't find a picture worth sharing, so look it up yourself if you really care. They're pretty ugly.
Tomorrow is bonding day with my mom. We're going to shop and hang out and stuff. Should be fun.
One day until Loras!!
Caritas et veritas.
Monday, August 22, 2005
Oh man. Great day.
I woke up and made coffee and put in "Coyote Ugly". I organized my craft box (which is three-drawers and unruly). It looks amazing - I didn't realize I had like, half of the stuff that is in there! :) Then I went rollerblading. Yay. Then I sat and watched TV with my brother for a little while, and we listened to country music. Then I went to the bank, and when I got back I realized that I was not in the mood to do anything productive; however, I took today off to clean/pack/organize, so I did a little of that. When I finished that I went outside and laid a blanket down on the grass in the backyard and grabbed an iced tea, the dog, and my book (St. Thomas Aquinas: The Dumb Ox by G.K Chesterton) and sat in the sun for a while, reading. It was amazing...the weather was perfect and the sun was so warm. I fell asleep for a while until my mom woke me up by screaming at me to make sure I wasn't dead. (not exaggerating, she said "Oh my gosh. I thought you were dead") I could have done without that part...not exactly the most positive thing to wake up to. Sheesh. Anyway, it was still wonderful. Then I made dinner. Ravioletti Carbonara with Prosciutto. It was delicious. I love cooking. I don't know why I love it so much. I guess for the same reason as I love baking and cleaning - I like being domestic when I don't necessarily have to. :) If it were my responsibility to put food on the table every night, I might not love it...however, since I can just do it at random and make it enjoyable...I love it. Believe me, it makes sense to me. ;)
So my brother is now into country music, and I love it. We drove around listening to Brad Paisley tonight and he was singing along and even said "Ohhh, nothing like banjo". It's wonderful. I knew it would come to him...we've got country in our genes (or at least, hillbilly...).
Well, tomorrow is packing day, since today was evidently slacking day. Harrumph.
I miss Loras. A lot. Only 2 days. 2 days too long.
Caritas et veritas.
I woke up and made coffee and put in "Coyote Ugly". I organized my craft box (which is three-drawers and unruly). It looks amazing - I didn't realize I had like, half of the stuff that is in there! :) Then I went rollerblading. Yay. Then I sat and watched TV with my brother for a little while, and we listened to country music. Then I went to the bank, and when I got back I realized that I was not in the mood to do anything productive; however, I took today off to clean/pack/organize, so I did a little of that. When I finished that I went outside and laid a blanket down on the grass in the backyard and grabbed an iced tea, the dog, and my book (St. Thomas Aquinas: The Dumb Ox by G.K Chesterton) and sat in the sun for a while, reading. It was amazing...the weather was perfect and the sun was so warm. I fell asleep for a while until my mom woke me up by screaming at me to make sure I wasn't dead. (not exaggerating, she said "Oh my gosh. I thought you were dead") I could have done without that part...not exactly the most positive thing to wake up to. Sheesh. Anyway, it was still wonderful. Then I made dinner. Ravioletti Carbonara with Prosciutto. It was delicious. I love cooking. I don't know why I love it so much. I guess for the same reason as I love baking and cleaning - I like being domestic when I don't necessarily have to. :) If it were my responsibility to put food on the table every night, I might not love it...however, since I can just do it at random and make it enjoyable...I love it. Believe me, it makes sense to me. ;)
So my brother is now into country music, and I love it. We drove around listening to Brad Paisley tonight and he was singing along and even said "Ohhh, nothing like banjo". It's wonderful. I knew it would come to him...we've got country in our genes (or at least, hillbilly...).
Well, tomorrow is packing day, since today was evidently slacking day. Harrumph.
I miss Loras. A lot. Only 2 days. 2 days too long.
Caritas et veritas.
Sunday, August 21, 2005
Ah, Polish Fest.
It was wonderful.
We (the family) actually went to Mass at St. Stan's (which we never do, really). It was in English and Polish, which was wonderful. I know about two words in Polish (being "yes" and "thank you"...I think that that's all I really need to know...I'm agreeable and grateful...haha). The music was somewhat polka-ish...I don't think it technically qualified as a Polka Mass though. It was amazing, though. They had a huge banner of the Divine Mercy, and the real Polish people (not the half-breeds like me) were wearing their traditional Polish dress. It was amazing. And the priest was a total rockstar. He went on and on about the Holy Father and how we must be obedient to him because he is the descendent of Peter who is guided by the Holy Spirit, and anyone who speaks contrary to him is wrong and we really cannot listen to them because it's a pack of lies. It was wonderful. I loved it. The only weird part was the Communion song, which was "Pescador de Hombres"...in Polish. Odd.
Anyway, the pierogies were amazing. And so was the Polish sausage. YUM.
Ok, the family's starting a movie, and as I'm going to be here for only 3 more days, I feel it obligatory to go watch.
More later...or tomorrow.
Caritas et veritas.
It was wonderful.
We (the family) actually went to Mass at St. Stan's (which we never do, really). It was in English and Polish, which was wonderful. I know about two words in Polish (being "yes" and "thank you"...I think that that's all I really need to know...I'm agreeable and grateful...haha). The music was somewhat polka-ish...I don't think it technically qualified as a Polka Mass though. It was amazing, though. They had a huge banner of the Divine Mercy, and the real Polish people (not the half-breeds like me) were wearing their traditional Polish dress. It was amazing. And the priest was a total rockstar. He went on and on about the Holy Father and how we must be obedient to him because he is the descendent of Peter who is guided by the Holy Spirit, and anyone who speaks contrary to him is wrong and we really cannot listen to them because it's a pack of lies. It was wonderful. I loved it. The only weird part was the Communion song, which was "Pescador de Hombres"...in Polish. Odd.
Anyway, the pierogies were amazing. And so was the Polish sausage. YUM.
Ok, the family's starting a movie, and as I'm going to be here for only 3 more days, I feel it obligatory to go watch.
More later...or tomorrow.
Caritas et veritas.
Saturday, August 20, 2005
Last day of work: Accomplished.
Babysitting job tonight: Avoided.
Yep, things are looking pretty good. I finished work today, which was nice. It'll be good to relax for the next few days before heading back to school. And then I went to a movie at the bandshell. It was good and wholesome, with lots of families with kids and whatnot. They were showing "The Wizard of Oz", which is, of course, an all-time classic. It was way fun. And then Erin and I went to Perkins and got some delicious coffee and food. Yum. What a better way to spend the night. :)
Tomorrow is Polish Fest! YESSSS!! I cannot wait. I've been waiting all year. Woot! And my dad said he *might* take me fishing. We'll see how that goes. If he doesn't take me then I'll have to go fishing in the Mississippi when I get back to school. I cannot go much longer. I'm fading fast. ;)
Loras countdown: 5 days. How amazing is that?
Caritas et veritas!
Babysitting job tonight: Avoided.
Yep, things are looking pretty good. I finished work today, which was nice. It'll be good to relax for the next few days before heading back to school. And then I went to a movie at the bandshell. It was good and wholesome, with lots of families with kids and whatnot. They were showing "The Wizard of Oz", which is, of course, an all-time classic. It was way fun. And then Erin and I went to Perkins and got some delicious coffee and food. Yum. What a better way to spend the night. :)
Tomorrow is Polish Fest! YESSSS!! I cannot wait. I've been waiting all year. Woot! And my dad said he *might* take me fishing. We'll see how that goes. If he doesn't take me then I'll have to go fishing in the Mississippi when I get back to school. I cannot go much longer. I'm fading fast. ;)
Loras countdown: 5 days. How amazing is that?
Caritas et veritas!
Friday, August 19, 2005
Last *day* of work today. Tomorrow is the technical last day, although it's on a weekend, so it counts as less, somehow.
And today was the green-and-white game...aka the first unofficial game of the high school football season. And yes, my brother is the captain. :) I am one proud sister. I love to hear the announcer say "Tackle by Brian K*******". I always shout and make a spectacle of myself. What good is family if they're not a complete embarrassment? ;)
Go Bri!!
And afterwards I went to Barnes & Nobles for the last time (probably, anyway) with Erin. I do love those nights, when we sit and drink coffee and discuss random things and frustrations and ideas and whatnot, whilst thumbing through superficial fashion and trend magazines. I don't know why it's so therapeutic, but it is - I always leave feeling so much more refreshed. I do miss those nights when I am at school...
So tonight at B&N I ran into a girl I go to school with who was like "Oh...you have Dr. X? I had her. She's crazy. And a Quaker" (yes, I know) "She's a feminist too. A feminist Quaker." (yes, I know) "And she's impossible." (yes. I know.) Oh, this class is going to be tough!! We'll see how this all goes. Dear me.
And on a rant note: I wanted to sock the Associated Press this morning when I read the article about WYD. It was just a short blurb, but in the 2 columns (about 2 inches long, an inch wide), they somehow managed to mention that the Pope "was stiff" "did not kiss the ground, as John Paul II had" and "was a former Hitler Youth". SERIOUSLY. I just want to scream...can you truly not understand that HE IS NOT JOHN PAUL? I would be more ticked off if he tried to be JP2...it would be too sick and twisted trying to impersonate such a beloved pope. I think the BEST possible thing for BXVI to do is be himself. And he's doing a mighty fine job of it. So, my dear Associated Press, cut out the negativity and cynicism, because it's stale, unimpressive and tiresome. I can no longer stand to read such ridiculously slanted opinion-based editorials which are unsuccessfully feigned as "news".
I feel *a little* better. ;)
6 days until Loras!
Caritas et veritas!!
And today was the green-and-white game...aka the first unofficial game of the high school football season. And yes, my brother is the captain. :) I am one proud sister. I love to hear the announcer say "Tackle by Brian K*******". I always shout and make a spectacle of myself. What good is family if they're not a complete embarrassment? ;)
Go Bri!!
And afterwards I went to Barnes & Nobles for the last time (probably, anyway) with Erin. I do love those nights, when we sit and drink coffee and discuss random things and frustrations and ideas and whatnot, whilst thumbing through superficial fashion and trend magazines. I don't know why it's so therapeutic, but it is - I always leave feeling so much more refreshed. I do miss those nights when I am at school...
So tonight at B&N I ran into a girl I go to school with who was like "Oh...you have Dr. X? I had her. She's crazy. And a Quaker" (yes, I know) "She's a feminist too. A feminist Quaker." (yes, I know) "And she's impossible." (yes. I know.) Oh, this class is going to be tough!! We'll see how this all goes. Dear me.
And on a rant note: I wanted to sock the Associated Press this morning when I read the article about WYD. It was just a short blurb, but in the 2 columns (about 2 inches long, an inch wide), they somehow managed to mention that the Pope "was stiff" "did not kiss the ground, as John Paul II had" and "was a former Hitler Youth". SERIOUSLY. I just want to scream...can you truly not understand that HE IS NOT JOHN PAUL? I would be more ticked off if he tried to be JP2...it would be too sick and twisted trying to impersonate such a beloved pope. I think the BEST possible thing for BXVI to do is be himself. And he's doing a mighty fine job of it. So, my dear Associated Press, cut out the negativity and cynicism, because it's stale, unimpressive and tiresome. I can no longer stand to read such ridiculously slanted opinion-based editorials which are unsuccessfully feigned as "news".
I feel *a little* better. ;)
6 days until Loras!
Caritas et veritas!!
Thursday, August 18, 2005
At long last, a day apart from work. It was beautiful. I helped my aunt set up her classroom for part of it, and relaxed for the other part. It was very nice, and well-deserved.
So, World Youth Day has begun, and it looks like it's going well. I watched the reception of Pope Benedict XVI into Koln on EWTN this afternoon (it was an encore), and then on Life on the Rock they had a bunch of interviews and updates from WYD. It seems like it's going quite well - which is wonderful. I would have loved to go, but I was just in Germany in January, and upon returning to America I realized that it would be kind of ridiculous to expect to go back to Europe so quickly, especially so close to the date when school begins. Maybe next WYD...you just never know!
So, only 2 more days of work, plus a night of babysitting, and I'm done with the "work" part of summer. Beautiful. Then I begin the "pack" part of summer. Not so beautiful, but exciting nonetheless, because that means school starts soon!! I cannot wait!!
And on a random note: I bought tortillas tonight. And on the package it said "Refrigerate after purchase". How do the tortillas know they've been purchased? I mean, they were on a shelf in the store...so what's the difference between the shelf in the store and the shelf at home? I understand "Refrigerate after opening"...there are plenty of reasons for that directive. But "after purchase"? Explain that one to me. I'm perplexed.
One week until Loras!!
Caritas et veritas.
So, World Youth Day has begun, and it looks like it's going well. I watched the reception of Pope Benedict XVI into Koln on EWTN this afternoon (it was an encore), and then on Life on the Rock they had a bunch of interviews and updates from WYD. It seems like it's going quite well - which is wonderful. I would have loved to go, but I was just in Germany in January, and upon returning to America I realized that it would be kind of ridiculous to expect to go back to Europe so quickly, especially so close to the date when school begins. Maybe next WYD...you just never know!
So, only 2 more days of work, plus a night of babysitting, and I'm done with the "work" part of summer. Beautiful. Then I begin the "pack" part of summer. Not so beautiful, but exciting nonetheless, because that means school starts soon!! I cannot wait!!
And on a random note: I bought tortillas tonight. And on the package it said "Refrigerate after purchase". How do the tortillas know they've been purchased? I mean, they were on a shelf in the store...so what's the difference between the shelf in the store and the shelf at home? I understand "Refrigerate after opening"...there are plenty of reasons for that directive. But "after purchase"? Explain that one to me. I'm perplexed.
One week until Loras!!
Caritas et veritas.
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
It was time well wasted
And there's no way I trade a few more dollars or things crossed off my list
For a day I'll never forget
No I didn't get a thing done
But I sure soaked up every minute of the memory we were makin'
And I count it all as time well wasted
-Brad Paisley, "Time Well Wasted"
That one's from Brad's newest album (released yesterday!!)...and I think that I want that to be the way I live my life. Seems that it's too easy to get caught up in making every minute count, and getting as much done as possible, and being constantly busy with something, that we miss what is most important. This song reminds me of the times we've gone to Perkins at midnight knowing full well we're not finished with homework or have 8am classes or what-have-you...solely because we value each other's company and know that the memories made are worth more than anything else (hellooo...we talk about liturgical norms and act out the proper way to incense the altar...). Don't get me wrong - I'm a firm believer in hard work and honesty (hello...I'm a teacher!), but sometimes the lessons we learn from the experiences we have are worth more than we could ever learn in a book, class or from the world's wisest sage. And so...the way I see it...my time should either be working hard to use the talents I've been given in a way that glorifies God, or well-wasted, giving God glory by enjoying the people and moments He's blessed me with to gladden my heart and fill me with joy.
Now, I'm pretty sure that Brad didn't intend for such a deep insight when writing this song...but that's why I love country music. It courses through my veins and makes my heart smile.
So, now we're only looking at 3 (possibly 2 and a half) days left of work until heading back to school. (and there was great rejoicing. yay.) It's been so slow this week that I cannot wait for the week to be over. The only perk is that I'm reading this book..."Swimming with Scapulars" by Matthew Lickona, and it's actually really good. He was on EWTN's "Life on the Rock" about a month and a half (maybe more?) ago, and I thought it sounded interesting. Sure enough, it is. :)
I would love to keep posting about random things, but it's getting late, and I need to get to bed before the caffeine high from the coffee I drank a bit ago sets in...otherwise, we're looking at a long night ahead of us!
8 days until Loras! YAY!
Caritas et veritas.
(Yes, that's right, Gary. I am cool enough to have neat Latin words at the end of my blog...and voicemail!)
And there's no way I trade a few more dollars or things crossed off my list
For a day I'll never forget
No I didn't get a thing done
But I sure soaked up every minute of the memory we were makin'
And I count it all as time well wasted
-Brad Paisley, "Time Well Wasted"
That one's from Brad's newest album (released yesterday!!)...and I think that I want that to be the way I live my life. Seems that it's too easy to get caught up in making every minute count, and getting as much done as possible, and being constantly busy with something, that we miss what is most important. This song reminds me of the times we've gone to Perkins at midnight knowing full well we're not finished with homework or have 8am classes or what-have-you...solely because we value each other's company and know that the memories made are worth more than anything else (hellooo...we talk about liturgical norms and act out the proper way to incense the altar...). Don't get me wrong - I'm a firm believer in hard work and honesty (hello...I'm a teacher!), but sometimes the lessons we learn from the experiences we have are worth more than we could ever learn in a book, class or from the world's wisest sage. And so...the way I see it...my time should either be working hard to use the talents I've been given in a way that glorifies God, or well-wasted, giving God glory by enjoying the people and moments He's blessed me with to gladden my heart and fill me with joy.
Now, I'm pretty sure that Brad didn't intend for such a deep insight when writing this song...but that's why I love country music. It courses through my veins and makes my heart smile.
So, now we're only looking at 3 (possibly 2 and a half) days left of work until heading back to school. (and there was great rejoicing. yay.) It's been so slow this week that I cannot wait for the week to be over. The only perk is that I'm reading this book..."Swimming with Scapulars" by Matthew Lickona, and it's actually really good. He was on EWTN's "Life on the Rock" about a month and a half (maybe more?) ago, and I thought it sounded interesting. Sure enough, it is. :)
I would love to keep posting about random things, but it's getting late, and I need to get to bed before the caffeine high from the coffee I drank a bit ago sets in...otherwise, we're looking at a long night ahead of us!
8 days until Loras! YAY!
Caritas et veritas.
(Yes, that's right, Gary. I am cool enough to have neat Latin words at the end of my blog...and voicemail!)
Monday, August 15, 2005
Polska! Polska! Polska!!
I'm watching this Hallmark Channel movie about JP2, and it's amazing. I'm so impressed that it has captured my attention for the past 2 and a half hours (no small task).
And it's making me love Poland (like I needed any help with that!). I'm getting more excited for Polish Fest this Sunday!! Maybe I'll go to St. Stanislaus Kostka's for Mass, then right to Polish Fest. Can't be the last one to join in on the polka dancing, pierogies and fun!!
And on a MUCH grander scale:
Happy Feast of the Assumption. :)
Today at work we had this one couple come in (it's the second time now), and I enjoy them so much. They're middle-aged, and when they came in last time, I assumed they were life-long Catholics. Then they started asking me questions, and I was a little confused, but not completely (their generation didn't really get catechized well...)...and then they were like "So, you are Catholic, right?" and I'm like "Yes." and they're like "Since birth?" and I'm like "Yes." and they're like "You are one on fire Catholic." and the woman says "I'm an on fire Protestant. And I respect that you're an on fire Catholic..." and I was kind of confused. Then she goes on to say that she and her husband were Presbyterian for years and were content with it, until recently when the Presbyterian Church started doing things they didn't agree with (they didn't go into detail, but I think we can all safely assume where they were coming from). She's like "So, we left. And gradually we started watching EWTN. And we found Marcus Grodi and The Journey Home and started learning about Scott Hahn. And now, we're going to be in RCIA this fall" :) God is so good. These two are the most inquisitive individuals...and that is exactly what brought them to Catholicism. They were not content with anything short of the Fullness of Truth. Hoorah! And, she bought her first Rosary! :) Yay God!!
So I'm back at Loras in...10 days. I cannot wait. I am so excited to see everyone and be back to where I most truly belong (at this stage in my life...don't get confused...I know where I truly belong!!).
Caritas et veritas.
I'm watching this Hallmark Channel movie about JP2, and it's amazing. I'm so impressed that it has captured my attention for the past 2 and a half hours (no small task).
And it's making me love Poland (like I needed any help with that!). I'm getting more excited for Polish Fest this Sunday!! Maybe I'll go to St. Stanislaus Kostka's for Mass, then right to Polish Fest. Can't be the last one to join in on the polka dancing, pierogies and fun!!
And on a MUCH grander scale:
Happy Feast of the Assumption. :)
Today at work we had this one couple come in (it's the second time now), and I enjoy them so much. They're middle-aged, and when they came in last time, I assumed they were life-long Catholics. Then they started asking me questions, and I was a little confused, but not completely (their generation didn't really get catechized well...)...and then they were like "So, you are Catholic, right?" and I'm like "Yes." and they're like "Since birth?" and I'm like "Yes." and they're like "You are one on fire Catholic." and the woman says "I'm an on fire Protestant. And I respect that you're an on fire Catholic..." and I was kind of confused. Then she goes on to say that she and her husband were Presbyterian for years and were content with it, until recently when the Presbyterian Church started doing things they didn't agree with (they didn't go into detail, but I think we can all safely assume where they were coming from). She's like "So, we left. And gradually we started watching EWTN. And we found Marcus Grodi and The Journey Home and started learning about Scott Hahn. And now, we're going to be in RCIA this fall" :) God is so good. These two are the most inquisitive individuals...and that is exactly what brought them to Catholicism. They were not content with anything short of the Fullness of Truth. Hoorah! And, she bought her first Rosary! :) Yay God!!
So I'm back at Loras in...10 days. I cannot wait. I am so excited to see everyone and be back to where I most truly belong (at this stage in my life...don't get confused...I know where I truly belong!!).
Caritas et veritas.
Sunday, August 14, 2005
Deo Gratias!
Brother Anthony made simple vows today. God is good. :)
St. Dominic, pray for us.
And...first off, I would like to thank the anonymous poster for their health advice in the post beneath the Santa Chiara picture. As y'all may know, I'm very cognizant of my health, especially when it comes to cholesterol. As I sit here eating my fried eggs and bacon, I can't help but really dwell upon the importance of watching your cholestrol intake levels. Everyone out there in blogland, be sure to take anonymous's words to heart. It could save your life. ;)
So, realization of the day:
I'm genetically mutated.
Or adopted.
Because clearly, I do not belong to my family. I've been told this many times...especially by my parents. However, this morning proves my case. Abundantly.
I'll write the scene out in script form, so as to aid in comprehension (or at least, attempt...)
Characters: Me, my mom and my dad
::Leaving house for church, brother still sitting on couch and not making effort to join family::
Me: Isn't he coming?
Mom: No, he's been absolved, just for today.
Me:what the hell does that mean?> He's been what?
Mom: He's not coming. Just for today.
Me: Why not?
Mom: He broke up with his girlfriend last night. He's too upset. He says he hates God and just can't come.
Me:hated God before> Wait...that's a GOOD reason to not go? He should be coming EVEN MORE now!!
Mom: He just isn't coming. He said he can't. It's only for this week.
Me: Mom. This is a mortal sin. He will need to go to confession. He can't receive communion until he does. I can't believe this. I am not backing down.
Mom: Fine, he will.
Me:Sure.
Mom: You know, I wish you would just try to see his side. He's upset.
Me: HE'S UPSET, SO HE CAN'T GO TO CHURCH?
Mom: YOU'RE NOT BEING REASONABLE.
Me:I can't believe this.
Mom: You know, I understand where he's coming from. Sometimes you're just mad at God.
Me: Mom, I've been there. I still went to church.
Mom: But you're different. You have faith, and a special calling (referring vaguely to religious life, as always).
Me: Mom! Do you not remember how tough high school was for me? I was not like I am now! And I still went!!
Mom: You know, you have to realize something. He's the only one on the football team who even goes to church. None of the other guys go. You need to realize that.
Me:realize> Wait, so that justifies this? He normally goes, so he can skip, because he's still better than the other guys? That's the most ridiculous...
Mom: They are teenage boys!
Me: AND TEENAGE BOYS DON'T NEED GOD?!
Mom: No, I don't think so. At least, not necessarily.
Me:WHAT?! Mom! That doesn't make sense! Everyone needs God!! And if they think they don't, they're wrong. They're not happy without God!
Mom: Well, they're happy with who they are. They're just teenage boys.
Me: I can't believe this. You need to learn something about theology!
Dad:Well, we're just allowing him to stay home this one time so he can realize that tomorrow he won't feel any better...and that he really does need to go to church...
Me:Oh.
And that's where that conversation ended.
Later on, my mom says something about my brother going to see his ex-girlfriend compete in the beauty pageant at the county fair, and...
Me: What? You'll allow him to go to that, but he can skip church? Are you serious?
Mom:Yeah... Maybe I'll tell him to go to the movies or something instead.
Me: Oh my gosh. Mom, if he goes to the fair but doesn't go to church...well, I can't handle that. I'll move out. That's the most...
Mom: Ok, fine.
I'm adopted.
Seriously...where did I come from? I love the Church, I love Truth, I love learning...and none of this reflects anything I grew up with. How this happened is beyond me. God surely formed my heart in secret, because there's no other way...all that I am is not a reflection of the external world!
On a lighter note:
I talked to Sister Mary Emily on Thursday, and it was wonderful. I just enjoy talking to her so much. She always challenges me. She's so good. I was telling her about how I'm going to be finishing up my Spanish minor this semester, and she's like "You know Spanish?" and I'm like "Well, I can read it, write it, and understand it, but I'm not good at speaking it." And she's like "Angela. You need to speak it. You must. You need to work on it. Keep trying." And I, of course, said "Yes, Sister." I know she's right. It's just that I get so shy when I try to speak Spanish, and I forget everything! I had a woman come into work the other day and she spoke Spanish to me, and I had to speak English in response, because my brain froze up when I tried to speak Spanish. I don't understand it, and I wish I didn't do that, because I know I know the language pretty well (not an expert by any means!!!), and I know I could improve greatly if I just spoke it. Ugh. Anyway, I will accept Sister's challenge, and try to speak it more. Hopefully I will actually do it this time. I've said this "I'm going to try" thing over and over, and I never carry it out because I get too shy. But this time...maybe, just maybe, it'll be different. Maybe I'll post in Spanish some time. That's writing, but it's more conversational, so it's almost like speaking, since the only writing I'm used to is formal writing for class. I wrote a 5 page paper on cryogenics and the ethics of such in Spanish, however, I cannot carry on a conversation. There is something seriously wrong with that...
However, the funniest part of the conversation was when I was informing her of my schedule for the semester, including my Christian Sexual Morality class. She was quite uninterested until I was like "yeah, the teacher...is a Quaker" and she was like "WHAT?!" Haha, it was hilarious. She told me to be sure to defend the Truth in Dr. Oatmeal's class. (except, she didn't say Dr. Oatmeal...that's just the nickname we've all taken to when referring to her)... I'm actually kind of excited for the class. I've never had class with a Quaker before. There are oh so many possibilities for interesting adventures, many of which will be shared with all of you in blogland.
Well, that's enough for now. Except I do remember that I promised to post about the St. Clare's day Mass, and in regards to that I say: It was beautiful. The nuns are amazing, and I really love to hear them sing. It was very special, and orthodox. Hoorah.
And speaking of St. Clare...one of the new postulants that entered Nashville today is named Clare, and she's from Australia. How cool is that? :)
God bless the new postulants, and all of last year's postulants who are now novices! How exciting.
And on the most exciting note: Loras countdown: 11 days. Yessssssssss....
Caritas et veritas!
Brother Anthony made simple vows today. God is good. :)
St. Dominic, pray for us.
And...first off, I would like to thank the anonymous poster for their health advice in the post beneath the Santa Chiara picture. As y'all may know, I'm very cognizant of my health, especially when it comes to cholesterol. As I sit here eating my fried eggs and bacon, I can't help but really dwell upon the importance of watching your cholestrol intake levels. Everyone out there in blogland, be sure to take anonymous's words to heart. It could save your life. ;)
So, realization of the day:
I'm genetically mutated.
Or adopted.
Because clearly, I do not belong to my family. I've been told this many times...especially by my parents. However, this morning proves my case. Abundantly.
I'll write the scene out in script form, so as to aid in comprehension (or at least, attempt...)
Characters: Me, my mom and my dad
::Leaving house for church, brother still sitting on couch and not making effort to join family::
Me: Isn't he coming?
Mom: No, he's been absolved, just for today.
Me:
Mom: He's not coming. Just for today.
Me: Why not?
Mom: He broke up with his girlfriend last night. He's too upset. He says he hates God and just can't come.
Me:
Mom: He just isn't coming. He said he can't. It's only for this week.
Me: Mom. This is a mortal sin. He will need to go to confession. He can't receive communion until he does. I can't believe this. I am not backing down.
Mom: Fine, he will.
Me:
Mom: You know, I wish you would just try to see his side. He's upset.
Me: HE'S UPSET, SO HE CAN'T GO TO CHURCH?
Mom: YOU'RE NOT BEING REASONABLE.
Me:
Mom: You know, I understand where he's coming from. Sometimes you're just mad at God.
Me: Mom, I've been there. I still went to church.
Mom: But you're different. You have faith, and a special calling (referring vaguely to religious life, as always).
Me: Mom! Do you not remember how tough high school was for me? I was not like I am now! And I still went!!
Mom: You know, you have to realize something. He's the only one on the football team who even goes to church. None of the other guys go. You need to realize that.
Me:
Mom: They are teenage boys!
Me: AND TEENAGE BOYS DON'T NEED GOD?!
Mom: No, I don't think so. At least, not necessarily.
Me:
Mom: Well, they're happy with who they are. They're just teenage boys.
Me: I can't believe this. You need to learn something about theology!
Dad:
Me:
And that's where that conversation ended.
Later on, my mom says something about my brother going to see his ex-girlfriend compete in the beauty pageant at the county fair, and...
Me: What? You'll allow him to go to that, but he can skip church? Are you serious?
Mom:
Me: Oh my gosh. Mom, if he goes to the fair but doesn't go to church...well, I can't handle that. I'll move out. That's the most...
Mom: Ok, fine.
I'm adopted.
Seriously...where did I come from? I love the Church, I love Truth, I love learning...and none of this reflects anything I grew up with. How this happened is beyond me. God surely formed my heart in secret, because there's no other way...all that I am is not a reflection of the external world!
On a lighter note:
I talked to Sister Mary Emily on Thursday, and it was wonderful. I just enjoy talking to her so much. She always challenges me. She's so good. I was telling her about how I'm going to be finishing up my Spanish minor this semester, and she's like "You know Spanish?" and I'm like "Well, I can read it, write it, and understand it, but I'm not good at speaking it." And she's like "Angela. You need to speak it. You must. You need to work on it. Keep trying." And I, of course, said "Yes, Sister." I know she's right. It's just that I get so shy when I try to speak Spanish, and I forget everything! I had a woman come into work the other day and she spoke Spanish to me, and I had to speak English in response, because my brain froze up when I tried to speak Spanish. I don't understand it, and I wish I didn't do that, because I know I know the language pretty well (not an expert by any means!!!), and I know I could improve greatly if I just spoke it. Ugh. Anyway, I will accept Sister's challenge, and try to speak it more. Hopefully I will actually do it this time. I've said this "I'm going to try" thing over and over, and I never carry it out because I get too shy. But this time...maybe, just maybe, it'll be different. Maybe I'll post in Spanish some time. That's writing, but it's more conversational, so it's almost like speaking, since the only writing I'm used to is formal writing for class. I wrote a 5 page paper on cryogenics and the ethics of such in Spanish, however, I cannot carry on a conversation. There is something seriously wrong with that...
However, the funniest part of the conversation was when I was informing her of my schedule for the semester, including my Christian Sexual Morality class. She was quite uninterested until I was like "yeah, the teacher...is a Quaker" and she was like "WHAT?!" Haha, it was hilarious. She told me to be sure to defend the Truth in Dr. Oatmeal's class. (except, she didn't say Dr. Oatmeal...that's just the nickname we've all taken to when referring to her)... I'm actually kind of excited for the class. I've never had class with a Quaker before. There are oh so many possibilities for interesting adventures, many of which will be shared with all of you in blogland.
Well, that's enough for now. Except I do remember that I promised to post about the St. Clare's day Mass, and in regards to that I say: It was beautiful. The nuns are amazing, and I really love to hear them sing. It was very special, and orthodox. Hoorah.
And speaking of St. Clare...one of the new postulants that entered Nashville today is named Clare, and she's from Australia. How cool is that? :)
God bless the new postulants, and all of last year's postulants who are now novices! How exciting.
And on the most exciting note: Loras countdown: 11 days. Yessssssssss....
Caritas et veritas!
Friday, August 12, 2005
The church...Santa Chiara. I called my cousin Clare from right outside (they have phone booths). First time I ever laid eyes on it was my 20th birthday! :)
How beautiful is this? I loooove it.
Promised picture of St. Dominic #1.
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
And we're looking at 15 days until I have my feet on Dubuque soil again!! Hurrah.
Tonight there was a small get-together at a friend's house, and it was one of the rare occasions in which I appreciated being home whilst being quite excited to be heading back. My friends at home are wonderful; however, I cannot wait until I am with my friends (who are quite nearly family) at school. There's so much more to be said about the people you spend 3/4 of the year with... :)
Today was the feast of St. Lawrence. Yay for him. I have always loved his story. And happy feast to Lauren, over at http://cnytr.blogspot.com. What a great week she has had!
So, tomorrow is the feast of St. Clare (or Chiara, to all you Italians). In my family, we really like St. Clare. I have a cousin named Clare. Her sister is named Colette, after St. Colette, who reformed the Poor Clares (hence the reason they are Poor Clare Colettines). When I was born, my grandma took me to the Poor Clares and passed me through the enclosure bars so the nuns could all hold me. And on my first day of kindergarten my mom called them and they promised to pray for me. She has always "blamed" my love of Catholicism and desire to do God's will, particularly in religious life, upon their influence and prayers...quite literally from birth! :) Anyway, tomorrow there is Mass with the Bishop at Corpus Christi Monastery (the Poor Clares), and I'm really excited! They are entirely too great...and to be out at Corpus Christi twice in one summer (it's not necessarily down the road, nor are they the types you just drop in on...as Sister Mary Bridget is the only extern sister), well, I'm really stoked! Yay for St. Clare. I'll tell you all about the beautiful Mass tomorrow, and share my experience of seeing her and her church in Assisi. I wish I could post a picture...Dang. Stupid computer. (And relating to yesterday's post about beautification...these nuns know what's up! They've got stained glass, paintings, statues AND a tabernacle veil. It truly is beautiful, in every sense of the term.)
Caritas et veritas!!
Tonight there was a small get-together at a friend's house, and it was one of the rare occasions in which I appreciated being home whilst being quite excited to be heading back. My friends at home are wonderful; however, I cannot wait until I am with my friends (who are quite nearly family) at school. There's so much more to be said about the people you spend 3/4 of the year with... :)
Today was the feast of St. Lawrence. Yay for him. I have always loved his story. And happy feast to Lauren, over at http://cnytr.blogspot.com. What a great week she has had!
So, tomorrow is the feast of St. Clare (or Chiara, to all you Italians). In my family, we really like St. Clare. I have a cousin named Clare. Her sister is named Colette, after St. Colette, who reformed the Poor Clares (hence the reason they are Poor Clare Colettines). When I was born, my grandma took me to the Poor Clares and passed me through the enclosure bars so the nuns could all hold me. And on my first day of kindergarten my mom called them and they promised to pray for me. She has always "blamed" my love of Catholicism and desire to do God's will, particularly in religious life, upon their influence and prayers...quite literally from birth! :) Anyway, tomorrow there is Mass with the Bishop at Corpus Christi Monastery (the Poor Clares), and I'm really excited! They are entirely too great...and to be out at Corpus Christi twice in one summer (it's not necessarily down the road, nor are they the types you just drop in on...as Sister Mary Bridget is the only extern sister), well, I'm really stoked! Yay for St. Clare. I'll tell you all about the beautiful Mass tomorrow, and share my experience of seeing her and her church in Assisi. I wish I could post a picture...Dang. Stupid computer. (And relating to yesterday's post about beautification...these nuns know what's up! They've got stained glass, paintings, statues AND a tabernacle veil. It truly is beautiful, in every sense of the term.)
Caritas et veritas!!
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
The Cubs are dreadful. Worthless. Wretched. And as for the game...downright pitiful. However, it was a lot of fun!! :) If that doesn't make sense to you, you don't know me very well...
This morning after Mass (yay St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross/Edith Stein!!), we went to breakfast at the Swedish restaurant (duh, it's Rockford...we have a lot of Swedish restaurants). And I had delicious French toast (no, no Swedish pancakes for me...although Dominick nearly went out of his mind about the gol-dang "Swedes"...). And then we left for Chicago. I love Chicago. How can you not love Chicago? It's just so great!! I love the hustle and bustle and fun and craziness...but strictly for visiting purposes. I could never ever in a bajillion years LIVE in conditions like that. I would go mad. Anyway, our seats were amazing (right behind home plate!). The downside (besides the loser players), was the man behind me spilling his beer on my back. I mean, SPILLING. I had quite a bit of beer on my back, which did not make me happy. But I didn't even turn around. I just kept my cool, assuming it was an accident. I allowed it to dry, and remained calm. Then he started dropping peanuts on my back. Like not one or two, but about 10. So I gradually got more and more aggravated until I finally burst and turned around and hissed "What is your deal!?", at which he was like "oh...sorry" as if he didn't realize he was throwing peanuts and beer at me. Gosh. Anyway, that was very minor in the grand scheme of things. It was a great time, and I still love the Cubs. They just really have to get their act together. After the game we went to the Cheesecake Factory for dinner (delish!), and stopped at Starbucks on the way home (double delish!). All in all, a beautiful day!!
No great spiritual insights today, other than I am really enjoying watching Fr. Mitch Pacwa here on EWTN (despite his Lego man hair) talk about beautifying churches. I'm all for it, especially since my home parish's decorations are conducive to counting bricks instead of contemplating the stained glass or paintings or statues...oy. It's dreadful. Not necessarily ugly, but not beautiful. He's talking about what could potentially happen to the prayer lives of the faithful should our churches once again embraced true Beauty...and it could be amazing! I know I love to go to churches that are decorated well, not because I'm superficial or even because I like things to be merely aesthetically appealing, but because I think it forces your thoughts heavenward...as they should be whilst in church!
Caritas et veritas!
This morning after Mass (yay St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross/Edith Stein!!), we went to breakfast at the Swedish restaurant (duh, it's Rockford...we have a lot of Swedish restaurants). And I had delicious French toast (no, no Swedish pancakes for me...although Dominick nearly went out of his mind about the gol-dang "Swedes"...). And then we left for Chicago. I love Chicago. How can you not love Chicago? It's just so great!! I love the hustle and bustle and fun and craziness...but strictly for visiting purposes. I could never ever in a bajillion years LIVE in conditions like that. I would go mad. Anyway, our seats were amazing (right behind home plate!). The downside (besides the loser players), was the man behind me spilling his beer on my back. I mean, SPILLING. I had quite a bit of beer on my back, which did not make me happy. But I didn't even turn around. I just kept my cool, assuming it was an accident. I allowed it to dry, and remained calm. Then he started dropping peanuts on my back. Like not one or two, but about 10. So I gradually got more and more aggravated until I finally burst and turned around and hissed "What is your deal!?", at which he was like "oh...sorry" as if he didn't realize he was throwing peanuts and beer at me. Gosh. Anyway, that was very minor in the grand scheme of things. It was a great time, and I still love the Cubs. They just really have to get their act together. After the game we went to the Cheesecake Factory for dinner (delish!), and stopped at Starbucks on the way home (double delish!). All in all, a beautiful day!!
No great spiritual insights today, other than I am really enjoying watching Fr. Mitch Pacwa here on EWTN (despite his Lego man hair) talk about beautifying churches. I'm all for it, especially since my home parish's decorations are conducive to counting bricks instead of contemplating the stained glass or paintings or statues...oy. It's dreadful. Not necessarily ugly, but not beautiful. He's talking about what could potentially happen to the prayer lives of the faithful should our churches once again embraced true Beauty...and it could be amazing! I know I love to go to churches that are decorated well, not because I'm superficial or even because I like things to be merely aesthetically appealing, but because I think it forces your thoughts heavenward...as they should be whilst in church!
Caritas et veritas!
Monday, August 08, 2005
Happy Feast of St. Dominic!!!
I am so excited for the feast of St. Dominic today! It's a wonderful day for all Dominicans (obviously!), but especially because of the profession of final vows which takes (took, really) place in Nashville today! Congratulations to all of those sisters (especially the two who are posted earlier on this blog!!) Yay!
To begin the celebration, I went to Mass (of course), then breakfast...and perhaps I might go treat myself to a nice dinner before going to a going-away party for a friend tonight. Woot! What a great day.
If you're curious as to where to find some nice pictures of St. Dominic, check these out. Once I'm on a computer that I can post pictures with (aka: not this one), I will post a few of my favorites. Meanwhile, enjoy the link.
http://www.catholic-forum.com/saints/std02002.htm
Some ideas for your own personal celebration:
1. Wear black and white. You know you want to.
2. Read something Dominican...you know, Thomas Aquinas, Catherine of Siena, etc.
3. Use the word "veritas" in everyday vocabulary at least once today.
4. Check out the stars in the night sky (he is the patron of astronomers, after all...)
5. Befriend a black and white dog (so long as you don't allow it to carry a torch in its mouth!).
As for me...well, I'll let you know what I come up with for myself. ;)
Caritas et veritas!!
Laudare, Benedicere, Praedicare!!
Holy Father Dominic, pray for us!
I am so excited for the feast of St. Dominic today! It's a wonderful day for all Dominicans (obviously!), but especially because of the profession of final vows which takes (took, really) place in Nashville today! Congratulations to all of those sisters (especially the two who are posted earlier on this blog!!) Yay!
To begin the celebration, I went to Mass (of course), then breakfast...and perhaps I might go treat myself to a nice dinner before going to a going-away party for a friend tonight. Woot! What a great day.
If you're curious as to where to find some nice pictures of St. Dominic, check these out. Once I'm on a computer that I can post pictures with (aka: not this one), I will post a few of my favorites. Meanwhile, enjoy the link.
http://www.catholic-forum.com/saints/std02002.htm
Some ideas for your own personal celebration:
1. Wear black and white. You know you want to.
2. Read something Dominican...you know, Thomas Aquinas, Catherine of Siena, etc.
3. Use the word "veritas" in everyday vocabulary at least once today.
4. Check out the stars in the night sky (he is the patron of astronomers, after all...)
5. Befriend a black and white dog (so long as you don't allow it to carry a torch in its mouth!).
As for me...well, I'll let you know what I come up with for myself. ;)
Caritas et veritas!!
Laudare, Benedicere, Praedicare!!
Holy Father Dominic, pray for us!
Sunday, August 07, 2005
So I got this idea from another blog, and I thought it might be interesting:
Try Google-ing your name+ "is". Here are my results:
Angela is...
...the Lead Technical Editor for the Dreamweaver MX Bible.
...GREAT! (no, really, it says that!!)
...a gem, and it's full of help.
...the attractive but hard-bitten wife of aging Mafioso Saro.
...up bright and early every morning doing live reports for the number one rated morning show.
...in the sixth grade and is on target academically.
...a generous, caring person, with a great love of family.
...hot. (really?)
...a hunter; one of few angels that have been granted permits to hunt Hellspawns as part of Heaven's cold war with hell. (What?!)
...currently writing a chapter on hunting. (what's with the hunting??)
...very enthusiastic about working with youth and families.
...no newcomer to print media.
...a relative new-comer to reincarnation studies.
...a fun-to-be-with person with a million smiles and hugs to give away. (awww!)
...in the blind community.
...one of the classiest and most soulful blues singers I know, great songs, sung and played with deep soul, funk and authenticity.
...totally nuts!! (yes!)
So clearly, when naming a child Angela, they will inevitably be interested in newscasting, hunting and families, and will be a nice person. I guess that's not so bad. ;)
Try it with your name...and leave the wackiest results in my comment box. I must know!!
Today we painted the base coat on the walls in the family room. Yeah, it's white. Get excited. We painted white. On white. It was exhilirating. Tomorrow comes the "latte" paint color, with the Tuscan finish. We'll see how this works! I suggested we vacation to Tuscany to see how it's really authentically done...but that was shot down. ;)
So tonight is the vigil of the feast of St. Dominic, so I made myself my very own rendition of Starbucks coffee, complete with whipped cream, cocoa sprinkled on top, and red sprinkles to accent. It was beautiful, if I do say so myself. Tomorrow, however, is the real cause for rejoicing. The sisters will be taking their final vows, and I'm stoked!! I finish my novena for them too - woot! I can't wait until they post pictures of the day online, I'm sure it will be beautiful. I would love to see it - I've never witnessed a final profesion firsthand. I've been to an ordination, and it was beautiful...however, I think that a profession (for either women or men religious) would be amazing, too. I wish I could go to Brother Anthony's in Denver...alas, I cannot. He's only making simple vows though. Perhaps I can be there for his final vows. We'll see what God has in store. :)
Well, I should get to bed. Exciting day tomorrow. I love feast days. What do non-Catholics do to spice up their weekdays during what the Church refers to as "Ordinary Time"? How dull, how humdrum, how dreary... ;)
Caritas et veritas!!
Try Google-ing your name+ "is". Here are my results:
Angela is...
...the Lead Technical Editor for the Dreamweaver MX Bible.
...GREAT! (no, really, it says that!!)
...a gem, and it's full of help.
...the attractive but hard-bitten wife of aging Mafioso Saro.
...up bright and early every morning doing live reports for the number one rated morning show.
...in the sixth grade and is on target academically.
...a generous, caring person, with a great love of family.
...hot. (really?)
...a hunter; one of few angels that have been granted permits to hunt Hellspawns as part of Heaven's cold war with hell. (What?!)
...currently writing a chapter on hunting. (what's with the hunting??)
...very enthusiastic about working with youth and families.
...no newcomer to print media.
...a relative new-comer to reincarnation studies.
...a fun-to-be-with person with a million smiles and hugs to give away. (awww!)
...in the blind community.
...one of the classiest and most soulful blues singers I know, great songs, sung and played with deep soul, funk and authenticity.
...totally nuts!! (yes!)
So clearly, when naming a child Angela, they will inevitably be interested in newscasting, hunting and families, and will be a nice person. I guess that's not so bad. ;)
Try it with your name...and leave the wackiest results in my comment box. I must know!!
Today we painted the base coat on the walls in the family room. Yeah, it's white. Get excited. We painted white. On white. It was exhilirating. Tomorrow comes the "latte" paint color, with the Tuscan finish. We'll see how this works! I suggested we vacation to Tuscany to see how it's really authentically done...but that was shot down. ;)
So tonight is the vigil of the feast of St. Dominic, so I made myself my very own rendition of Starbucks coffee, complete with whipped cream, cocoa sprinkled on top, and red sprinkles to accent. It was beautiful, if I do say so myself. Tomorrow, however, is the real cause for rejoicing. The sisters will be taking their final vows, and I'm stoked!! I finish my novena for them too - woot! I can't wait until they post pictures of the day online, I'm sure it will be beautiful. I would love to see it - I've never witnessed a final profesion firsthand. I've been to an ordination, and it was beautiful...however, I think that a profession (for either women or men religious) would be amazing, too. I wish I could go to Brother Anthony's in Denver...alas, I cannot. He's only making simple vows though. Perhaps I can be there for his final vows. We'll see what God has in store. :)
Well, I should get to bed. Exciting day tomorrow. I love feast days. What do non-Catholics do to spice up their weekdays during what the Church refers to as "Ordinary Time"? How dull, how humdrum, how dreary... ;)
Caritas et veritas!!
Saturday, August 06, 2005
Hoorah for Saturday being over. And even more of a hoorah for the three day weekend I have coming! (Sunday, Monday and Tuesday!) I cannot wait! It's really a beautiful thing. :)
Tonight I went to Festa Italiana. There were a lot of Italians there, but even more Italian wannabes. It's like the Irish wannabes that surface around St. Patrick's Day. Oy vey. However, it was a lot of fun, despite the fact that it was overrun by scantily clad hormonal high schoolers. Ah, high school. I wouldn't go back for the world. Anyway, the music was good, the food was good, and it was good to actually have something to do. And something cultural, at that! I love culture like crazy!! :) The music was put on by a Rat Pack trio, doing old classics from back in the day, and later on there was the daughter of Louie Prima, who supposedly was big back in the day (I had never heard of him, except I did know some of his music, like "Jump, Jive and Wail"). She was decent...it was just a strange situation...almost as if she were forcing her father's legacy to carry on vicariously through her. Odd, but nice.
After tonight, I have 4 words:
Polish. Fest. August. 16th.
Yessssssssssssssssss. Bring your polka shoes, and be ready for some pierogies!
I just have one small rant. Actually, it's rather large, but I don't feel like ranting at such great length. Here is the condensed version:
Why do people think that "soon we'll all be speaking Latin" on account of Pope Benedict? Seriously, like he would really try to make the world speak Latin? Or take away the vernacular completely, after it has been implemented for the past 40 years? Like, seriously, people. Use your brains. And stop your whining about the fact that the "altar might get turned around". In Sacrosanctum Concilium Paul VI never states that the altar had to be turned toward the people in the first place...sooooo, if the altar WERE to be turned back around, it wouldn't be on account of anything other than we were technically never told to face it the direction it is facing! And seriously, if that is where your crisis of faith begins, you need to reevaluate what the Church and all Her beauty and Truth means to you. I'm getting to the point, though, where I'm going to scream next time I hear a comment about "we'll all be speaking Latin" or "it'll all be Gregorian chant" or the direction of the altar...because to me, it's one of those things that if Holy Mother Church has mandated it, She has a good reason for it (which She always makes evident to us through encyclicals and other writings), and we, as the faithful, should trust in Her wisdom and knowledge gained throughout 2000 years of history. So stop your complaining, go learn something about why we do what we do, and then teach someone else the Truth of the matter that you were just tearing to pieces. Because...you never know, but...(gasp!) you could be wrong!
ARGH!
So that's my minor rant...believe me, I've been trying to be charitable about it - it's gotten to the point where I feel like I'm ignoring the spiritual work of mercy to "instruct the ignorant"...
19 days until I move into Loras!
Anyway, I'm off to bed. Sleep, glorious, beatific, magnificent sleeeep.
Caritas et veritas.
Tonight I went to Festa Italiana. There were a lot of Italians there, but even more Italian wannabes. It's like the Irish wannabes that surface around St. Patrick's Day. Oy vey. However, it was a lot of fun, despite the fact that it was overrun by scantily clad hormonal high schoolers. Ah, high school. I wouldn't go back for the world. Anyway, the music was good, the food was good, and it was good to actually have something to do. And something cultural, at that! I love culture like crazy!! :) The music was put on by a Rat Pack trio, doing old classics from back in the day, and later on there was the daughter of Louie Prima, who supposedly was big back in the day (I had never heard of him, except I did know some of his music, like "Jump, Jive and Wail"). She was decent...it was just a strange situation...almost as if she were forcing her father's legacy to carry on vicariously through her. Odd, but nice.
After tonight, I have 4 words:
Polish. Fest. August. 16th.
Yessssssssssssssssss. Bring your polka shoes, and be ready for some pierogies!
I just have one small rant. Actually, it's rather large, but I don't feel like ranting at such great length. Here is the condensed version:
Why do people think that "soon we'll all be speaking Latin" on account of Pope Benedict? Seriously, like he would really try to make the world speak Latin? Or take away the vernacular completely, after it has been implemented for the past 40 years? Like, seriously, people. Use your brains. And stop your whining about the fact that the "altar might get turned around". In Sacrosanctum Concilium Paul VI never states that the altar had to be turned toward the people in the first place...sooooo, if the altar WERE to be turned back around, it wouldn't be on account of anything other than we were technically never told to face it the direction it is facing! And seriously, if that is where your crisis of faith begins, you need to reevaluate what the Church and all Her beauty and Truth means to you. I'm getting to the point, though, where I'm going to scream next time I hear a comment about "we'll all be speaking Latin" or "it'll all be Gregorian chant" or the direction of the altar...because to me, it's one of those things that if Holy Mother Church has mandated it, She has a good reason for it (which She always makes evident to us through encyclicals and other writings), and we, as the faithful, should trust in Her wisdom and knowledge gained throughout 2000 years of history. So stop your complaining, go learn something about why we do what we do, and then teach someone else the Truth of the matter that you were just tearing to pieces. Because...you never know, but...(gasp!) you could be wrong!
ARGH!
So that's my minor rant...believe me, I've been trying to be charitable about it - it's gotten to the point where I feel like I'm ignoring the spiritual work of mercy to "instruct the ignorant"...
19 days until I move into Loras!
Anyway, I'm off to bed. Sleep, glorious, beatific, magnificent sleeeep.
Caritas et veritas.
Friday, August 05, 2005
Last night I went to bed REALLY excited. After I posted, I looked around at links found on some blogs I read, and I found about 4 or 5 women my age who are much like me and are also actively discerning their vocations (on their blogs!). It was super exciting, and I went to bed with sugar plums dancing in my head (or was it thoughts of the New Evangelization??). :) Hoorah for being open and honest about discernment. I love that!
So today work was tough. We'll just leave it at that. It's days like today that make me excited for school to be beginning soon.
I went to the Air Show tonight, and saw the stunt and military planes doing their bit. It was amazing! I was super impressed by the wingwalker who used no ropes or harness or anything, especially when the plane spun and he was standing on the wing of the plane upside down! It was amazing. And then the WWII fighter plane flew alongside a F-15 from nowadays (flown by a pilot who has served 30 missions in Iraq so far), and it was really beautiful. They played a patriotic tune over the loudspeaker, and I could have cried. I guess it's in my blood, as my grandpa was in the Army, my mom's brothers were in the National Guard, Air Force and Marines, and my mom's sister's husband was in the Navy. I have a tremendous amount of respect and admiration for them...
20 days until I move into Loras!!
And I don't have any theological insights for today, other than I CANNOT SIT STILL. I tried to sit still in the adoration chapel this morning, just for 5 minutes, without thinking about random things or being distracted by noise or movement or what-have-you, and I could not do it. I made it like, 15 seconds. It was ridiculous. I kept trying to refocus myself, but to no avail. Oh, Angela!
Well, I work alllll dayyyy tomorrow, so I must get to bed. However, Monday is St. Dominic's feast day!! Hoorah!
(Always keep your eye on the light at the end of the tunnel...) :)
Caritas et veritas.
So today work was tough. We'll just leave it at that. It's days like today that make me excited for school to be beginning soon.
I went to the Air Show tonight, and saw the stunt and military planes doing their bit. It was amazing! I was super impressed by the wingwalker who used no ropes or harness or anything, especially when the plane spun and he was standing on the wing of the plane upside down! It was amazing. And then the WWII fighter plane flew alongside a F-15 from nowadays (flown by a pilot who has served 30 missions in Iraq so far), and it was really beautiful. They played a patriotic tune over the loudspeaker, and I could have cried. I guess it's in my blood, as my grandpa was in the Army, my mom's brothers were in the National Guard, Air Force and Marines, and my mom's sister's husband was in the Navy. I have a tremendous amount of respect and admiration for them...
20 days until I move into Loras!!
And I don't have any theological insights for today, other than I CANNOT SIT STILL. I tried to sit still in the adoration chapel this morning, just for 5 minutes, without thinking about random things or being distracted by noise or movement or what-have-you, and I could not do it. I made it like, 15 seconds. It was ridiculous. I kept trying to refocus myself, but to no avail. Oh, Angela!
Well, I work alllll dayyyy tomorrow, so I must get to bed. However, Monday is St. Dominic's feast day!! Hoorah!
(Always keep your eye on the light at the end of the tunnel...) :)
Caritas et veritas.
Thursday, August 04, 2005
So today at work I heard (for the second time) about an amazing child. It's like a modern day Blessed Imelda (who, if you don't know who that is, look her up!). It's this little boy named Christopher from somewhere in Minnesota (his family lives here in my town), and he's 6. Last year he begged and pleaded to be able to go to confession, and when the priest realized that he understood the sacrament, he heard his confession, and gave him Eucharist. He has not recieved since, and will be making his First (official) Communion this weekend. He's only 6! How impressive is this child! I was just so excited to hear about this kid...he's absolutely wonderful! And to make it a little cooler, he's the nephew of a guy who comes in (who I know, sort of), who is a Third Order Dominican. Hooot! It's like, of course this kid is great...he's got Dominican blood! :)
21 days until I move into Loras! Hooray!
And continuing from a post I read on someone else's blog...
We, at my home parish, have about 100 people at daily Mass each day. I'd say they're anywhere from 10 years old to 90 years old, with the majority in their 50's and 60's. But in the summer, anyway, when the college-aged students are home, I'd say we make up at least 10% of that population. Not bad, I think. That may seem random, but I was thinking about it a lot today. And on that note: I don't think that I could ever do anything that made me miss daily Mass on a regular basis. No job or profession or whatever would be worth it to me - I would go to sleep earlier so I could rise earlier, just to go to Mass. I love it too much. Like a fifth-grade student said (and as quoted in the Nashville sisters' newsletter "Veritas"), "I have learned that the weight of one Mass is greater than anything else on earth." Wow. How can you not love that?!
Caritas et veritas.
21 days until I move into Loras! Hooray!
And continuing from a post I read on someone else's blog...
We, at my home parish, have about 100 people at daily Mass each day. I'd say they're anywhere from 10 years old to 90 years old, with the majority in their 50's and 60's. But in the summer, anyway, when the college-aged students are home, I'd say we make up at least 10% of that population. Not bad, I think. That may seem random, but I was thinking about it a lot today. And on that note: I don't think that I could ever do anything that made me miss daily Mass on a regular basis. No job or profession or whatever would be worth it to me - I would go to sleep earlier so I could rise earlier, just to go to Mass. I love it too much. Like a fifth-grade student said (and as quoted in the Nashville sisters' newsletter "Veritas"), "I have learned that the weight of one Mass is greater than anything else on earth." Wow. How can you not love that?!
Caritas et veritas.
Tuesday, August 02, 2005
Turns out a whole clove of garlic is not equal to a half clove of garlic. When you add a whole clove instead of half a clove, your recipe turns out a bit garlicky.
Other than that, the guacamole was delish.
And the tomalito. :)
Theology on Tap was good tonight. Actually, it was pretty great. It was one of those things that just reinforces what you already knew, but in a different way, making it seem like new information. It was about vocation as a call to holiness, regardless of which Vocation you've been gifted with. I already knew one of the presenters (they are a married couple; I know the wife). It was really amazing to see how married people can be so holy and devoted to each other whilst being in constant pursuit of growing in holiness for the sake of each other, as part of their married vocation. I loved seeing that - it's not seen nearly often enough in today's world. I heard the most beautiful thing tonight; it was quoted from a letter that one of the speakers received from a Franciscan TOR sister. She said to pray each night whilst holding a crucifix. You can either pray holding both of Jesus' hands, praying to be totally His, or holding one of His hands, praying for Him to send you someone worthy enough to hold His other hand with you. I think it's beautiful. :)
Well, I don't have much else to say, other than today is the feast of Bl. Jane of Aza, St. Dominic's mother, which is a cause for rejoicing. Go grab yourself an orange-flavored Creamsicle. Not because it has anything to do with Bl. Jane or St. Dominic, but because they are delicious.
Caritas et veritas.
Other than that, the guacamole was delish.
And the tomalito. :)
Theology on Tap was good tonight. Actually, it was pretty great. It was one of those things that just reinforces what you already knew, but in a different way, making it seem like new information. It was about vocation as a call to holiness, regardless of which Vocation you've been gifted with. I already knew one of the presenters (they are a married couple; I know the wife). It was really amazing to see how married people can be so holy and devoted to each other whilst being in constant pursuit of growing in holiness for the sake of each other, as part of their married vocation. I loved seeing that - it's not seen nearly often enough in today's world. I heard the most beautiful thing tonight; it was quoted from a letter that one of the speakers received from a Franciscan TOR sister. She said to pray each night whilst holding a crucifix. You can either pray holding both of Jesus' hands, praying to be totally His, or holding one of His hands, praying for Him to send you someone worthy enough to hold His other hand with you. I think it's beautiful. :)
Well, I don't have much else to say, other than today is the feast of Bl. Jane of Aza, St. Dominic's mother, which is a cause for rejoicing. Go grab yourself an orange-flavored Creamsicle. Not because it has anything to do with Bl. Jane or St. Dominic, but because they are delicious.
Caritas et veritas.
Monday, August 01, 2005
Rosary procession...so beautiful!!!
Me listening intently, until... (scroll down...)
Ok, that's my arm poking Sister. Two questions: Why am I poking her? And why does she not seem to care? Haha...oh dear.
This is what it's all about. Hanging out, being real, and talking Truth. Yesssssssss.
So I tried to post about my type of humor, but me being the computer-illiterate yo-yo that I am, I couldn't figure out what it meant when it said that the "tag is broken" and then it just got kind of wacky from there out.
So, I will just tell you. I was 30% dark, 60% spontaneous and 16% vulgar. And that 16% is because those questions were bunk and there was only vulgar answers. How one could avoid some vulgarity score is beyond me. I prefer the innocent, fun, good-natured humor. :)
I move in in 25 days!! Hooray!
And St. Dominic's feast day is next Monday. I am praying a novena in preparation and getting excited in solidarity with the good sisters in Nashville. How beautiful!!
I bought Spirit of the Liturgy by Cardinal Ratzinger (woot!) today, and I'm really excited to read it. I really should be reading Theology of the Body to prepare myself for my class this next semester with Dr. Oatmeal, the crazy liberal feminist Quaker, but alas, there will come a day.
I will let you know how wonderful it is, and probably share some exciting excerpts as I run across them.
Elizabeth and I are going to do something relatively constructive.
Tomorrow: Mexican fiesta, with the menu consisting of:
Fried plantains with guacamole
Sweet corn tomalito (Chevy's style)
Ole!
Caritas et veritas, or, more properly for the mood, caridad y verdad.
So, I will just tell you. I was 30% dark, 60% spontaneous and 16% vulgar. And that 16% is because those questions were bunk and there was only vulgar answers. How one could avoid some vulgarity score is beyond me. I prefer the innocent, fun, good-natured humor. :)
I move in in 25 days!! Hooray!
And St. Dominic's feast day is next Monday. I am praying a novena in preparation and getting excited in solidarity with the good sisters in Nashville. How beautiful!!
I bought Spirit of the Liturgy by Cardinal Ratzinger (woot!) today, and I'm really excited to read it. I really should be reading Theology of the Body to prepare myself for my class this next semester with Dr. Oatmeal, the crazy liberal feminist Quaker, but alas, there will come a day.
I will let you know how wonderful it is, and probably share some exciting excerpts as I run across them.
Elizabeth and I are going to do something relatively constructive.
Tomorrow: Mexican fiesta, with the menu consisting of:
Fried plantains with guacamole
Sweet corn tomalito (Chevy's style)
Ole!
Caritas et veritas, or, more properly for the mood, caridad y verdad.
How quality is this one? :)
