We be trippin'

Hello friends,
     Thank you Lord for safe travel. May God bless you and keep you safe, dear reader. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

My trip began with a flight to DC, then a plane to CT, where my friend Cy is going to school. The reason for this excursion? She is returning to Tx for the summer and needed someone to drive her back to Texas (where she resides); she asked me to accompany her on her trip.

The house where Cy is staying is amazing, so I had to take photographs to share with you. This was the view from the kitchen window. The house is three stories: an upper floor, a middle floor, and then a basement that is a complete living area; it has a washer/drier, refrigerator, two full bathrooms, two bedrooms, and a pool table. (not shown) 

The majority of my photos are from the middle level of the house, because that's where the best lighting happened to occur.

There are plenty of windows showing off the spectacular landscape, and this is the view directly across from the kitchen window. You are seeing correctly: that's a deck.

This is the other side of the deck, on the outside. When's the party, Cy???

The stream that runs behind the house was hard to take pictures of, but you could hear it. This pathway leads you to the stream and the huge backyard.

 

Cy was packed and we were ready to go!

Just a couple of welcome signs from the states we crossed on our way back to Texas:

 

Upon entering Tennessee from the East, we saw this:

This was the view from our hotel. I took this picture because I was amused by how many "World Famous," signs I saw in Tennessee.

We arrived in Nashville around 8ish p.m. We didn't get to Broadway, a street similar to Austin's Sixth Street, but Austin has many more bars, until 11ish.

Here are some of the sights and sounds of our excursion into the night life:

I don't know what this building was, but I like the architechture. My guess is that it's a courthouse of some sort.

It is an unspoken rule that if you come across anything Jimmy Buffet, you must take a photo.

Cy took this photo on Saturday afternoon. I am standing outside of the Memphis Welcome Center. Notice there's a guitar for the 'i' in Memphis? Anywhere you looked and saw the word "Memphis," it has a guitar for the 'i'. ;)

Inside the Welcome Center, which is right behind where I'm standing, you'll find him:

And almost directly behind Elvis is:

These photos are just some of the black and white photos inside the Welcome Center that I thought were cool:

Aretha Franklin

Yes, this IS Ray Charles.

A super young Elvis and B.B. King.

It's always wonderful to travel within the United States. And yes, there is also tremendous benefit in traveling abroad; however, I think Americans don't realize the real treasures and important historic places we have...and many people don't take the time to find out what is right here in our very own backyard. More's the pity too, because it's worth seeing.

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

God winks at us

Hello friends,
God is always speaking to us, if only we would slow down and listen. And, "if today you hear His voice, harden not your hearts." In Jesus' name, Amen.
It is with great pleasure I want to tell you about a book I'm reading, entitled, "God winks."
It is with great displeasure I tell you that there are people (you may even be one of those people) who think God doesn't answer prayers.
However, IF (and I realize this IF is ginormous for some readers) IF you are open to His "speaking," what I call 'winking' for the purpose of this blog, then you will "see" that God does indeed respond to our prayers. What does a wink from God mean? It's a confirmation of your request, a "yes" of sorts.
Let me give you an example:
When I was discerning whether it was God's will for me to become a school counselor, I had the following dream.
I am in a strange, grimy, never-seen-before, city. I am walking along the street, when I come upon a police car, with it's lights flashing. Another police car is parked diagonally to the first car. There is a young man in the middle of the "V" the officer's cars are making.
He has a gun and is threatening to shoot himself.
I walk through the cars, toward the young man, when a policeman approaches me, "Ma'am, I'm going to need you to step back, please."
"I'm a counselor, I can help him." I confidently reply.
These words seem to appease the man in the blue uniform, as he moves aside to let me through.
Somehow, by the grace of God I'm sure, I'm able to talk the gentleman out of killing himself, and get him some help.
I consider this dream a God wink. A confirmation on the direction of  my career.
Another 'test' and God wink confirmation I received that solidified this first yes to me, was when I said to God, "If this is Your will, then financially You'll need to show me the way." Because when I looked at my finances closely, I laughed. No extra cash there!
But my income tax was due shortly...And once I did my taxes, I was able to afford three semesters! Now I felt that God wasn't just winking at me, He was Blinking, lol.
Then I was blessed with a summer school job. This money was for books and any other school supplies I needed. I was even able to afford a laptop - paid in full with currency. Thanks God.
Please consider this: have you ever had a petition or some heavy question on your mind, and then bam!, you feel like a family member, or a friend, or a stranger, in some random conversation you are having with them, maybe they do something, and you have an answer to your heavy question? God has winked at you, my friend. Keep the faith.

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

The Servant Song

Hello friends,
     Heavenly Father you gave us the best example of motherly love in our Blessed Mother and her relationship with Christ; a "Love beyond all telling." Please continue to bless and guide all your children, wherever they may be, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Mother's Day reminds me of many things, but the most pertinent to the present moment is that I'm not a mom, lol.
But mother's remind me of the best example of God's love for us. So for all the mom's reading this, I dedicate this song, which I intend to have as a wedding song between my beloved and me,
Lord of the Rings, Servant Song
Please note: Lord of the Rings is one of my all-time favorite movies, and to have this edifying song playing to some of the most endearing scenes from the movie, is an incredible find and a "God wink." (In another blog I will discuss what a "God wink," is...stay tuned!)
God bless you, my friends, today and always. Amen!
Here are the lyrics to this precious song, just in case you're wondering:

Friend, Let me be your servant Let me be as Christ to you Pray that I may have the grace To let you be my servant, too We are pilgrims on a journey We are friends on the road We are here to help each other Walk the mile and bear the load I will hold the Christlight for you In the night-time of your fear I will hold my hand out to you Speak the peace you long to hear I will weep when you are weeping When you laugh I'll laugh with you I will share your joy and sorrow Till we've seen this journey through

When we sing to God in heaven We shall find such harmony Born of all we've known together Of Christ's love and agony Friend, let me be your servant Let me be as Christ to you Pray that I may have the grace To let you be my servant, too

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

As we grow in wisdom, we pardon more freely.

Hello friends,
God blesses each of us in wondrous and amazing ways; my prayer today is that you take the time to see how He's working in your life. In Jesus' name. Amen.
I began these blogs with these objectives in mind: to address the superficial politics of being pro-life, or pro-choice; the idea of conscience; and lastly, to decide how the information has changed me, if indeed it has, in any way.
I gathered a lot of information about what it means to be pro-choice and pro-life, and a dear friend loaned me a book entitled, "Unplanned," written by Abby Johnson, and this is what tipped my thinking (besides God, of course)to the pro-life side.
Just a very brief summary of the book, Abby came from the same place I did: pro-choice. Through her book, I was able to see what it's like to be inside a Planned Parenthood facility, and outside the facility, through some of the pro-lifers. It's a good book. Check it out if you get a chance.
My point being: everything starts with education. Once people gather information about a topic, the more adept they will be at making a good decision for themselves.
Surprisingly, I thought I was going to still be a smug pro-choice advocate at the end of this 'series.' But I've got to tell you: God has really worked with me. He has gently lead me to a greater understanding of what goes on in abortion clinics, what circumstances lead a person to choose to have an abortion, etc.
I am not condemning or judging anyone if they decide to have an abortion, but, just like my friend at the very beginning of this 'talk,' told me, I'll pray for them.
Because ultimately, at the end of our lives, we stand before God and have to atone for the things we've done, or not done, with the talents God has given us.
I cannot, in all good conscience, stand before my Lord and Savior and say, I was pro-life, Lord, in everything (besides Jesus sees my heart and through any lie I'd tell). I was opposed to war, I was opposed to the death penalty, but I thought it was okay for people to choose to kill a life. I realize now the hypocrisy of my thinking. I understand too, that war, the death penalty, and yes, even abortions are 'government decisions,' i.e. law, and that as an individual in our society, I don't have a large say in any of those things, these things do and will happen, regardless of how I feel, or think about them...Wrong. I've protested wars before; I'm familiar with Amnesty International. I am an activist. No law will stop me from being an activist. And now I will work for the pro-life movement. Not fanatically, probably very low-key and behind the scenes, but I'll be in there and working for this cause.
Having written this much, I must also say that I can no longer vote for Democrats that are pro-choice. I'll be praying and asking God where He wants me politically.
As I learned, I hope you did too, and that maybe you'll be interested in checking out the book I mentioned.
"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

Is this my final answer?

Hello friends,
May God bless each and every pair of eyes that is reading this page. Here is the prayer for today, from my favorite website, Word Among Us,“Jesus, take my hand, and lead me today. Open my eyes to the miracles you are working around me, and free me to rejoice at them.” In Jesus' Name, Amen.
"What a strange, long, road it has been," to quote the only lyrics I know from the Grateful Dead.
Two more definitions, and then I'm done 'defining' things.
Definition #1. What is a Liberal? This was taken from wiki, and yes, I know wiki isn't the best site to quote from, but I agree with this particular definition from them: "Liberals espouse a wide array of views depending on their understanding of these principles, but most liberals support such fundamental ideas as constitutions, liberal democracy, free and fair elections, human rights, capitalism, free trade, and the freedom of religion."
Please note the importance of this phrase: ‘depending on their understanding of these principles,’ because this is the crux of my argument about being ‘pro choice.'
Definition #2. What does a person mean when they say they are pro-choice? This comes from a website “Sexual Health Centre,” in Lunenburg County, Bridgewater, Nova Scotia, Canada: "To be pro-choice is to believe that a woman has the right to decide for herself when and whether to have a child. Pro-choice does not mean pro-abortion (the assumption being that pro-abortion means preferring that option to others). The pro-choice position does not advocate abortion over parenting or adoption. Pro-choice is a philosophy that believes each individual has the right to make decisions about their sexual and reproductive life. Self-determination is key, and regardless of a person’s decision (to use contraception, practice safer sex, abstain, become sexually active, utilize fertility interventions), each person has the right to make choices for their lives and circumstances.
In addition, the philosophy of choice means supporting comprehensive sexuality education and access to all reproductive options that are legal and safe. It means defending the right of individuals to make decisions for themselves based on their own beliefs, health, and situation, and without external interference, coercion, violence, inaccurate information, or judgment." Perfect. I wholeheartedly agree with this...or do I?...

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

Tideous, but worth it

Hello friends,
May you be Open to God as He blesses each of you. Lord bless me as I write this blog, to connect to the HS' will, and thus Your Will. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
To continue with my thoughts from my previous blog, more definitions and thoughts:
I am still quoting Bruce Sabalasky, and his website, www.ourladyswarriors.org, regarding “Freedom of Conscience”…that no one can be forced against his/her will to believe one thing or another. Only the individual person has the right to choose his/her beliefs. Yes, that means that even the 100% Truth of Catholic beliefs cannot be forced onto a person. Canon Law confirms this:
Can. 748 ß2 "It is never lawful for anyone to force others to embrace the Catholic faith against their conscience."
"However," continues Mr. Sabalasky, "this does not imply that one can believe anything and act accordingly, especially if one claims to be Catholic. As clearly stated previously, Vatican II Dignitatis Humanae tells us "In the formation of their consciences, the Christian faithful ought carefully to attend to the sacred and certain doctrine of the Church."
"Jesus' teachings as transmitted through His Church provide us the real freedom - the freedom from sin and eternal death (i.e. loss of salvation)."
I am certainly attempting to carefully attend to the “sacred and certain doctrine” of the Church.
Another site that was helpful to me in my search for truth in scrutinizing being pro-choice was Douglas McManaman’s site, www.catholiceducation.org; Douglas is a high school religion teacher. Here he is speaking of In Vitro Fertilization, and 'erroneous conscience.'
“If, for example, a Catholic claims to be able to choose In Vitro Fertilization in good conscience while knowing that the Church teaches that such an option is morally wrong, it must mean that he or she is convinced that it would be sinful not to choose that option. That would certainly constitute an erroneous conscience; nevertheless, he or she would be obliged to obey it.”
McManaman continues saying, that most people do not claim ‘erroneous conscience’ when acting contrary to Catholic teaching.
“But conscience does not mean that Catholics are free to act on the basis of what they personally judge is morally right in spite of Church teaching. Catholic conversion, as the etymology of “conversion” indicates, means a complete turn around (vertere), implying movement in a new direction in conjunction with (con) the community of Christ’s Mystical Body. As St. Paul says: “We all were among them too in the past, living sensual lives, ruled entirely by our own physical desires and our own ideas” (Eph 2, 3).
What I take from this is the fact that I can claim 'erroneous conscience' for being pro-choice, but that Christ calls us to something greater; I need to be 'unguarded', as it were, to what Christ is delivering to me, through His Church. The Church is pro-life. No exceptions, either. The Catholic Church opposes War, the Death Penalty, and Euthanasia. I like that...
Okay, reader, just a little more, and then I'll wrap things up...

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

Hello friends,
Heavenly Father, please continue to bless and guide my thoughts and my writing. "Lord, teach me to use the authority you've given me to proclaim your truth in love and humility." (This is taken from one of my favorite websites: www.wau.org aka "Word Among Us.")
To continue with the points I made in my last blog, I will first address the 'superficial' political landscape regarding abortion.
Politicians, on both sides of the aisle, have failed us as a society with regards to providing an alternative to abortion. Adoption of a child is NOT an easy process in the US. I truly believe as a nation we need to make adoption an easier procedure.  I have heard it said that if it weren't for the issue of abortion the conservative party wouldn't have a platform at all; but rather than delve any further into this foray, suffice it to say that society has been duped, yet again, by the politicking on important issues.
Now for some defintions.
How does the Catholic Church define conscience? For the answer I turned to, you guessed it, the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Bruce Sabalasky, on his website, www.ourladyswarriors.org, in an article entitled, "The Role and Freedom of Conscience," breaks it down like this:
Catholic View of Conscience
God's law written into a person's very heart.
Secular (Humanist) View of Conscience
Moral sense or inner feeling.
Catholic View of Conscience
A law which man does not impose on himself, because it comes from God.
Secular (Humanist) View of Conscience
Emanates from within the person ("sense," "feeling")
Catholic View of Conscience
Love good, avoid evil, love God and neighbor - always.
Secular (Humanist) View of Conscience
No guidance as to what "goodness" means. Therefore, anything goes as long as the "conscience is clear."
Catholic View of Conscience
To be obeyed.
Secular (Humanist) View of Conscience
Just another factor which affects behavior.
Catholic View of Conscience
Offers a person his/her very dignity.
Secular (Humanist) View of Conscience
Dignity is ignored.
Here is the definition of Secular humanism, from wiki, Secular Humanism is a comprehensive life stance that focuses on the way human beings can lead happy and functional lives. Though it posits that human beings are capable of being ethical and moral without religion or God, it neither assumes humans to be inherently or innately good, nor presents humans as "above nature" or superior to it. Rather, the Humanist life stance emphasises the unique responsibility facing humanity and the ethical consequences of human decisions. Fundamental to the concept of Secular Humanism is the strongly held belief that ideology — be it religious or political — must be thoroughly examined by each individual and not simply accepted or rejected on faith.[1] Along with this belief, an essential part of Secular Humanism is a continually adapting search for truth, primarily through science and philosophy.

To be continued, of course...

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

Conscience or conscious?

Hello friends,
      Heavenly Father, please bless and guide my words. I need some insight, compassion, and humor as I write this blog, Lord. Thank you. In Jesus' name, Amen. 
        Recently, a friend of mine was telling me about his experience as a "Sidewalk counselor," at an abortion clinic.
       "What do you think a Sidewalk Counselor does?" He asked.
       I answered, rather smugly, "You try to talk girls and women out of having an abortion."
       "No," he said.
       "Well, what then?"
       "We ask them if we can pray."
        Maybe a week after this conversation, Congress passes a law stating that "a doctor would have to describe to a woman the details of a sonogram hours before performing the abortion. The doctor would show the woman the sonogram and play the heartbeat audibly, unless the patient opts out. Even if the patient opts out, the doctor would have to describe the development of the fetus, including its dimensions. Women with fetal abnormalities, or who have been a victim of rape or incest, are given an exception." The Texas Tribune
        There is also talk of de-funding Planned Parenthood because they perform abortions, even though 'by law, Planned Parenthood cannot allocate any federal funding for abortions.' (wikipedia)
        These two things happening, and the dialogue with my friend, has prompted me, once again, to re-visit, my views on abortion. As many of you know,  I am 'pro-choice,' and recent events in my spiritual life, feeling and getting closer to God, have caused me to think ever more deeply about why I am pro-choice.
        Sure, most people will argue that 'it's not a choice, it's a baby,' or 'you can't be Catholic and pro-choice.' And I think these are easy catch-phrases, but they leave me unsatisfied and wanting.           
       I consider myself a truly honest Catholic, - I don't just 'follow the rules,' of the church without trying to understand what the teaching means, how it will fit into my life, and because I am a thinker, I must delve into this issue more:
firstly, by cracking the superficial political surface;
secondly, by swimming to my definition of conscience and examining it carefully;
and thirdly, by wrapping my pea-brain around the Church's definition of conscience;
        As I ponder these things, I am cognizant of the fact that throughout this process there is a chance my definition will change in some significant way, if needed;
       And lastly, somehow after all this contemplation, meditation, and reflection, and with Jesus leading me back to the top, for He is the only Presence I am hanging on to as I make this journey, I can live more fully in His Light. Afterall, He alone holds the underwater lamplight to all of Me, asking Me to uncover myself, to open myself up completely to Him, and to my Self, the person the Lord created.     "I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God, who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

Sometimes

Hello friends,
Heavenly Father, please help marriages that are in trouble, guide all single people to remain faithful and true to their Christian-Catholic calling, and for everyone I said I would pray for, this is a prayer for them. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Situations happen. To everyone.
Recently I made a fairly big, uncomfortable, awkward situation happen, and I am not proud of it (nor will I divulge what it is - you have an imagination - use it).
Fortunately, after a grueling period of isolation, prayer and repentance (embarassing chuckle), the quandry is no more, and in the midst of this er, 'process,' I learned something important about True Friendship: if a person(s) still likes you after they see ugliness in you, then they are True Friends.
I am proud and honored to call the people involved in my self-created fiasco, my friends; which leads me to another prayer today: may you be blessed with friends -not just a spouse, or lover(s)- but friends, who love you 'warts and all,' because it is a powerful and privileged relationship to have and behold.
In Jesus' Name. Amen.

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

Take time for laughter

Hello friends!
Heavenly Father, bless all four eyes, lol, reading this blog. Prayers for everyone I said a prayer for, and thanksgiving for all prayers You've answered, and for Your continuous blessings upon us. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Anyone who knows me well, knows I enjoy laughing and making others laugh, so I'm posting five of my favorite youtube videos - two from movies, the others from t.v.. ENJOY











Alas! I could not get any SEINFELD videos posted - it wasn't allowed! To give you an idea of one of my all time favs of Seinfeld, though, go to youtube and type in "Seinfeld Kramer Bus." It is HILARIOUS! "You're batman!" "You kept makin' all the stops?" Take time to laugh, it soothes the soul.

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

Lupita

Hello Friends,
My family's beloved Aunt Lupe died yesterday, in El Paso. Her body may still be on Earth, but I pray her soul is resting comfortably in the arms of Jesus. May her soul, and all the souls of the faithfully departed, rest in peace. In Jesus' name. Amen.
My mom has six siblings; besides her, two others are living: Tia Helina and Tia Luisa. (I use the present tense because I believe that even though a person dies, they are still family.) Both of my remaining Tias live in El Paso (EP), with the other siblings buried in various places throughout the city.

My Tia's are from left to right: in the green dress, Tia Helina; my Aunt Luisa is the one getting married; my mamagrande is next to her; my mom's head is behind my mamagrande, lol; my Tia Lupe is in the black dress with the white band; my Tia Rosa is in the purple dress.
My Tia Lupe and Luisa are twins, and I called my Tia Luisa to ask her some questions about Lupe's life.
"Lupe met her husband, Mark, at a gas station, where he worked. Lupe wanted me to check him out and tell her what I thought, so she took me to meet him. I thought he was attractive. At one point, when Lupe went to the restroom I think, he asked me out on a date. I told him I was engaged, which I was, and showed him my ring."
"Did you ever tell Lupe?" I asked.
"No, I never did. I didn't want to hurt her feelings. But I encouraged her to keep going to the gas station (laughs). She did. They dated and we had a double wedding, with a reception at the Hilton." Both Tia's were twenty-two years old when they got married.
Tia Lupe has one daughter, Diana, two grandchildren, Jackie and Jr, and one great-grandchild, Anthony.
Diana asked everyone at the funeral to say a few words about my Tia. I was happy to hear the phrases, "always laughing, or making you laugh," used often.
My own memories of Tia Lupe aren't as sweet as everyone’s at the funeral, but death has a way of putting things in perspective. I feel I made my peace with Tia Lupe years ago, on my last visit to EP, earlier this decade. Who has time to rehash the past anyway, when the present is so full of good things? In 2002, I remember Tia Lupe and I chatted about various things, and I enjoyed her company. Being an adult has it's privileges. Past hurts are put in their proper place: the past; and if there's one thing my dad's death taught me, it's the power of forgiveness.
As a child, I didn't understand why my Tia Lupe said and did odd things. I was reminded over and over by Tia Luisa and Cousin Diana that, "Tia Lupe has a metal plate in her head and this causes her to behave in strange ways." I knew my Tia had had surgery, but nothing else. I asked my Tia Luisa about it.
"When Lupe was in her thirties, she began having problems with her eye sight. She went to a specialist and they found she had a benign tumor in the front of her brain. When they removed it, they put a metal plate where they had removed part of her skull."
My Tia Luisa's words reminded me of a story I got in trouble for repeating.
Besides the brain tumor surgery, my Tia Lupe had her breasts reduced; I don’t know how old she was when she had this done, but I was fourteen when she told me the story of her procedure.
"While I was lying on the operating table, and just before they put me to sleep, I noticed that the doctor’s eyes’ crossed when he saw my ample bosom! I think he was shocked at how big I was, and boy did I laugh inside myself at his expression!" My Tia and I both burst out laughing.

My Cousin Diana and Tia Luisa were very angry with me for narrating this story to Andrew, my fifteen-year-old neighbor. "Remember, Tia Lupe has a metal plate and it makes her say things she shouldn't!"
Rest in Peace, Tia, you'll be missed.

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

Universal child

Hello friends,
      May the Christmas spirit, with all it's goodness and cheer, remain with us throughout the coming year. Know that you are loved; yes, even in those deep, dark recesses where you think no one sees your pain, your suffering, your addictions, and all the other kinds of Hell that plague a human heart. God see it all and Loves us so much!
     I'm attaching the lyrics and video to the song by Annie Lennox entitled, "Universal child." It's from her latest, "A Christmas Cornucopia." My brother turned me onto to this CD a few days before Christmas and I haven't been able to stop listening...This one especially goes out to Carrot and Stephen...Heart y'all.
For me, this is JC telling us just a fraction of the things He wants for us, and has in store for us:

How many mountains must you face before you learn to climb.
I'm gonna give you what it takes, my universal child.

I'm gonna try to find a way to keep you safe from harm.
I'm gonna be a special place, a shelter from the storm.
And I can see you, you’re everywhere, your portrait fills the sky.
I'm gonna wrap my arms around you, my universal child.

And when I look into your eyes, so innocent and pure.
I see the shadow of the things that you've had to endure.
I see the tracks of every tear that ran ran down your face.
I see the hurt, I see the pain, I see the human race.
I can feel you, your everywhere, shining like the sun.
And I wished to god that kids like you could be like everyone.

How many tumbles must it take before you learn to fly.
I'm going to help you spread your wings, my universal child.

I can feel you everywhere shining like the sun.
And I wished to god that kids like you could be like everyone.
And I wished to god that kids like you could be like everyone.

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

Suffering

Hello friends,

     Please pray and send positive thoughts to all couples in the process of conceiving; remember and say prayers for the lonely, the homeless, and those without Hope in their lives. Jesus, please have mercy on these souls, and send an angel in human form to comfort them. Amen.

     I know writing about suffering during Christmas may seem an odd thing to do, but it's where I found myself yesterday as I was reflecting on Mary, Jesus' mother.

     The bible doesn't say if Mary realized exactly what her Yes would entail, but she did receive hints about what life with Jesus would be like, when Simeon, upon seeing baby Jesus, tells her (Luke 2:35), "...and a sword will pierce your own soul too," which I interpret to mean the pain she was to feel at the Crucifixion of her son.

     When my heart grows heavy with sadness at whatever perceived sorrow I am feeling, I remind myself of Mary, the Mother of us all, and the true Agony she felt upon seeing Jesus hanging above her. I unite my sorrows with hers, and I ask for the same faith, hope, and strength she had.

     Our society likes to avoid grieving and who can blame it? Who wants to cry their heart out, or be depressed for days on end? No one! And yet, no matter how we try to avoid pain, or cheat it, it comes to us.

     Mary's "Yes," doesn't end at Christ's crucifixion though. We are a people of the Resurrection!

     Jesus is our hope. He is the Ultimate Healer. Invite Him into your life today. He won't guarantee a life free from difficulties or misfortune, but He will provide you with what you need to deal with any malady.

     May you feel God's graces pouring on you each and every day.

     Merry Christmas!

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

Trippin'

Hello friends,
      Special prayers of healing and strength for a very special person; for all marriages and single people, may God continue to bless all of our paths and shower His graces on us, daily. In Jesus name. Amen.
     As many of you may or may not know, my family and I went to Natchitoches, LA, (pronounced knack-uh-dish) for a mini-vacay this past weekend.
      I must commend Carlton for organizing this lovely excursion. He simply outdid himself as far as Christmas destinations are concerned. He also put together a splendid agenda for us; from the scenic drive there, to historic plantations, a fab fireworks display, and a minor basilica for good measure. As we stealthily drove through quaint, tiny towns, the decades old architecture seemed to be beckon us to their sleepy neighborhoods and store shops.
     The first place we stopped was Woody's Smokehouse, "The Jerky Capital of the World," for some delish deli sandwiches, which brought us to our second stop, Davy Crockett National Forest. Here's how the 'official' website describes the park, "The Davy Crockett National Forest, named for the legendary pioneer, contains more than 160,000 acres of East Texas woodlands, streams, recreation areas, and wildlife habitat. Located in Houston and Trinity Counties, the forest is centrally located within the Neches and Trinity River basins. The Davy Crockett National Forest was proclaimed a National Forest by President Franklin Roosevelt on October 15, 1936." I know now why I always liked Roosevelt. :)

     God has great surprises for us, if we only open our eyes and hearts to His graces. I had no idea I'd be blessed to step into a minor basilica. What is a minor basilica? According to the Catholic Encyclopedia, "In architecture, the term basilica signifies a kingly, and secondarily a beautiful, hall. The name indicates the Eastern origin of the building, but it is in the West, above all in Rome, that the finest examples of the basilica are found. Between 184 and 121 B.C. there were built in the Forum at Rome the basilicas of Porcia, Fulvia, Sempronia, and Opimia; after 46 B.C. the great Basilica Julia of Caesar and Augustus was erected. These buildings were designed to beautify the Forum and to be of use both for market purposes and for the administration of justice. They were open to the public and were well lighted."
Minor basilicas in the spiritual sense are closer to God, kidding, no, it just means in the hierarchy of churches are concerned, the minor basilica is a great treasure.
Here are a few privileges given a minor basilica, "These "privileges", besides conferring a certain precedence before other churches (not, however, before the cathedral of any locality), include the right of the conopaeum, the bell, and the cappa magna. The conopaeum is a sort of umbrella (also called papilio, sinicchio, etc.), which together with the bell is carried processionally at the head of the clergy on state occasions. The cappa magna is worn by the canons or members of the collegiate chapter, if seculars, when assisting at Office. The form of the conopaeum, which is of red and yellow silk, is well shown in the arms of the cardinal camerlengo (see vol. VII, p. 242, coloured plate) over the cross keys.

And here's a photo of the Minor Basilica in Natchitoches:

     I highly recommend this lovely "Christmas town," for your next 'winter' holiday vacation. It's got the right pace (slow), attitude (people are friendly), and small town feel without being snobby, or cliquish. Just a real family treat. Book early, though, B and B's, and hotels, fill up quickly.

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

You, Lord, are my only good.

Hello friends,
      Heavenly Father, prayers for those asking me for prayers, esp: Carrot, lol, and her healthy twins, a father with heart issues, and the passing of a beloved grandfather. Prayers for all marriages everywhere; for singles and marrieds to stay true to God's path and will for their lives; for agnostics and atheists, that through my actions I may lead them closer to You, Lord. In Jesus' name, Amen.
     Yesterday, when I was in the chapel for my hourly visit with the Lord, I began writing this blog:
You may wonder what I say when I'm in the chapel for an hour, sometimes more.
     Let me start by saying what I don't do: I don't complain about situations. Instead I "offer them up," and "give them" to God. I pray for everyone who's asked for prayers - and for those who don't ask, but certainly need them, lol - and I give many thanks.
     A few years ago I read The Shack, and one of the images that stayed with me from this book is the idea of Jesus being an outdoorsman. So, sometimes in adoration, I imagine He and I fishing together on a calm pond, or me laying on His chest by the pond/lake; as I lay on Him, I'm doing my best to saturate myself with His energy; His essence. Pretty sexy, huh? ;)
     Mostly I 'see' gorgeous rays of white light eminanting from His beautifully suspended body. This incandescent light engulfs me with His
Blessings, His Grace, and His Goodness. I close my eyes and let His Substance effuse me, the energy getting stronger as time passes.
     In short, I feast on Jesus.
     Sometimes the hour creeps by and I'm having a hard time focusing on the Lord, or 'seeing' anything, or the opposite is true; I have too much to tell our Lord and Savior and an hour's not enough time for everything.
     I've also been practicing Lectio Divina - the fine art of meditating on scripture - while in Holy Hour, and it lead me to a passage I didn't understand. I implored God to help me with it's meaning. The scripture, Revelations, Ch 2, verse 4, reads, "Yet I hold this against you: you have lost the love you had at first." (and here was where my pen broke in three places - no kidding!) I put the pieces in my purse, and went back to meditating and 'seeing' the Lord.
     Later, I realized what God was telling me with this passage. Before my Advent journey began, I would sit and submerge myself in God's love during Holy Hour. It was all I could handle at the time, and still is, really. I wouldn't even speak to Jesus, I just sat in His Presence, contemplating His Being, and His Unconditional Love for Me. But since I've started this sojourn, when I've been in God's house, I'm reading spiritual books I've been given, or the bible, and not devoting my FULL attention to God-Jesus. The Revelations passage, and my pen breaking, woke me up to what God is trying to tell me: when I've got an hour with Him, I need to spend it fully concentrating on Him, just like I did when I first participated in Adoration. No outside distractions of any kind, not even to clue my four readers, lol, on what I do in Adoration! LOL
     Good is good, all the time.

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

Song of Songs, chapter 1

Hello world-wide-web,
     Happy Thanksgiving to my friends in the states. Lord, bless us to always be thankful for everything you send our way; yes, even for the bad stuff. Because ultimately, Lord, You have our backs - especially during the difficult times; help us to remember that. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Dear Reader, if you have not read the Song of Songs in the bible, what are you waiting for??!! It is the most delicious, romantic, lyrical, and loving songs I have ever read.
I learned tonight that there are three ways to look at this particular book in the bible: literally, spiritually, and physically.
It was fairly controversial at the time it was written because the language was considered sexual and, quite frankly, people didn't know how to read it, much less understand it.
I do hope you take the time to read it and make a journal entry of some of the verses you like.
I found these sentences most memorable and the words that are italicized are my comments on the sentences chosen:
Chapter 1 - Love's Desires A wooing of sorts...
Love's Boast (these are subtitles beneath the main title) - "My own vineyard I have not cared for."I was not caring for my own vineyard. I am changing that as you read this...
Love's Inquiry - "Follow the tracks of the flock and pasture the young ones near the shepherd's camp." God-Jesus is the shepherd and He has asked us to help others get closer to Him, thus the phrase, "pasture the young ones near the shepherd's camp."
Love's union - the word "nard" was used and I was curious about what this meant; turns out a nard is a precious perfume, a figure of the bride.
"While the King sat at his table, my nards sent forth a fragrance." Christ is the King, of course, and we, His lovers, want to entice Him with a delicious odor, in order for Him to be closer to us.
"My lover is for me a sachet of myrrh that rests between my breasts." This is certainly racy words for the bible! Alas, in our 'modern times,' we have lost the fine art of seduction. By the way, Myrrh is also a sweet-smelling perfume.
I am only posting parts of the SoS, so as to hopefully inspire you to read more.

God bless you, each and every day, and know that with every step you take, God walks with you.

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

My Advent Journey - the Beginning

Hello world-wide-web,
      Heavenly father, thank you for always being with us, for all the blessings you shower us with, and for all answered prayers. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
The "Season of Prayer," (this 'Season' being Advent) began officially on November 15th, which was a perfect day for me: celebrating my mom's birth AND my last Final of 2010.
Advent is a time of preparation for the coming of Christ at Christmas.
The "Season of Prayer," journey entails (1)praying and studying scripture, (2)attending The Well (a closer look at the previous Sunday's readings) (3)taking a class entitled, "Intimacy with God," and (4)spending five hours in Adoration a week.
I can't remember, and I'm too lazy to check, but I think I've written about Adoration before, if so, my apologies for the redundancy.
Adoration is a tremendously powerful time with our Lord. I love the way it is described on the website http://www.catholicbible101.com/,"Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is one of the best ways to spend time with Jesus. There is so much noise around us these days. Spending a quiet hour with Jesus in humble adoration will bring many graces and blessings to you. Things that you have never even considered before will now be made present to you. Bad things that would have happened to you will now not happen. As He told Peter, "Could you not spend one hour with me?"

I will mention, briefly, how it has been a struggle to reach the five hours this week: temptations abounded. A good trait God has blessed me with, though, is that of commitment. I know the Almighty would not 'disown' me, or be disappointed that I didn't make my goal, but I would be disappointed in myself. Thanks be to God, for He has put others in my life who are on this journey (the journey of life and the journey in this "Season of Prayer.") - they have been my comfort, strength, and inspiration. Jesus with skin. Their support has helped me get closer to my goal; I have one hour left, which I hope to reach tomorrow, God willing.
Dear Reader, I want to take you on this "Season of Prayer," journey with me. I pray that you receive all the blessings I receive from being in Adoration, and that this blog will give you hope, love, faith and peace as you walk with Jesus and me, as well as inspire you to 'step up' your prayer life; goodness comes from praying.
Jesus has paid our tab: a round of blessings for everyone!

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

How to stay young

Hello world-wide-web,
     Heavenly Father, we mostly come seeking things from you, but I also want to take the time to thank you for everything in my life: my family and friends, for their health and mine, for a roof over my head, for clothes on my back, for a car that brings me and takes me safely to and from my destinations. In all that I do and say, may I have a Greater Faith in You today. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
The title is "How to stay young." It doesn't say How to Look Young - you're on your own there. ;)
I got this in an email, and you've probably received it as well, but I like it enough to share:
1. Keep only cheerful friends.
The grouches pull you down.
(Keep this in mind if you are one of those grouches!)
2. Keep learning:
Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever...
Never let the brain get idle. 'An idle mind is the devil's workshop.'
And the devil's name is Alzheimer's!
3. Enjoy the simple things.
4. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath. And if you have a friend who makes you laugh, spend lots and lots of time with HIM/HER.
5.The tears happen: Endure, grieve, and move on.
The only person who is with us our entire life, is ourselves.
LIVE while you are alive.
6. Surround yourself with what you love: Whether it's family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever...Your home is your refuge.
7. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.
8. Don't take guilt trips...Take a trip to the mall, even to the next county, to a foreign country, but NOT to where the guilt is.
9. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity. I love you, my special friends.
10. Forgive now those who made you cry. You might not get a second chance...
Remember! Lost time can never be found.
Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.
God bless us, everyone!
"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

Humble Yourself

Hello world-wide-web,
Heavenly Father, thank you for continuing to love us no matter what stupid things we do, say or think. I am always amazed Heavenly Father, when I realize You truly love us Unconditionally. Teach me to be that way, Lord. Show me how it's done. I want to see everyone as You see them. In Jesus' name. Amen.
This past weekend I was Spiritually reminded again of how important humility is, in all circumstances. I was taking a walk around the park this past Saturday afternoon - when the weather was absolutely gorgeous - and I was talking to the Lord, offering up prayers.
Once I was done talking to Jesus, I began obsessing about a family situation - and maybe this happens to you too, my four loyal readers - when you're bored, you too tend to obsess over idiotic things. Well I took the obsessing a step further and was getting self-righteous, thinking I had all the answers, wondering why people don't just ask me what they should do, or what I would do in certain situations...Because I've 'got it all together' and could help them. LOL
That's when I heard Jesus say, "Don't EVER think you have all the answers, or know what's best for people! Leave that to Me. You are only to Love. That's all I made you for: Love. It was out of Love you were created, and out of Love you are to create positive relationships. Listen, I Love You despite all the foolishness you do, why would I feel any differently about your Brother or Sister?"
"Yes, Lord," and I really meant it. I was humbled and it was a good feeling - to know I don't have all the answers and I'm not responsible for other's actions. I only lead by example.
This thought hit me as well: I honestly believe people just want to be loved for who they are, and where they are in life. That's all any of us really wants. We know we do stupid things, but it's still nice to know we'll be accepted, despite these mess-ups.
The next time I feel like the $h1t, I'm going to pray to the Lord to take me down as only he can: gently.
God bless ya.
"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

Awards assembly like no other

Hello world-wide-web,
     Thank you, Heavenly Father, for blessing me to move to such an amazing school. Specials prayers, Lord, for all those suffering at this moment, for those who are ill, and for those who have no one to pray for them, as well as for the agnostics and atheists. Bless me, Lord, with the help of the HS, to guide people to a new way of seeing You through my words and actions. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
The first nine weeks are coming to a close. The students have a half-day, as teachers get ready for parent-teacher conferences the following day. I learned that whenever we have a half day, we have an awards assembly, which is usually at the end of the nine weeks. This isn't unusual, many schools in the state of Texas probably have this ceremony. But I had no idea what I was in for when I walked my third grade students, along with the rest of third grade, and joined the fourth and fifth graders in the cafeteria.
First of all, this is the first time I've had a principal print out the A honor roll and A/B honor roll students from our grade books (the teachers normally do this, as well as fill in the certificates) AND have them printed out on nice certificate paper. Thanks principals!
Second of all, when we walked into the cafeteria, the lights are low and there's a disco ball shining on the stage - something new, I was told, for this year's ceremony - and fun dance music is blaring. The mood in the cafeteria is euphoric and the anticipation is palpable. I sit my students down and we watch the other grades pour in around us, filling up the entire cafeteria. Impressive. The students are talking, but the music is way louder than their chatter.
Our principal is on the stage, and she addresses us on the loud speaker and introduces the students who are in student council, who stand to be recognized. We clap for them enthusiastically.
Then our principal addresses us again, "Thanks for being here, students, staff, and parents as we celebrate the accomplishments of our students..." She goes on to emphasize the importance of attendance. Oh yeah, she also printed out the perfect attendance awards for us! :) Then she calls out the names of the perfect attendance winners for the third graders, for which the students stand to be recognized, and we aren't allowed to cheer for them until all the third grade students' names have been called.The students are really excited. Then the asst principal calls out the names of the fourth graders perfect attendance, and then the principal calls out the names of the fifth graders perfect attendance. They switch off and on like that for each award. 
It's time to honor the A/B honor roll students in each grade. The applause is even louder for this achievement.
A very special accolade goes to the students who are on all A Honor roll: they go up to the stage as the principal calls their names, and the asst principal puts a medallion around their neck. One of the students sitting close to me has made all A honor roll and I asked to see the medal: it is heavy with an emblem of books, science equipment and numbers. The strap is red and white. I show my students and encourage them to receive one in the next nine weeks. I had A/B honor roll students, but not any all A; not yet anyway. ;)
Thirdly, and here's where the assembly is at a fever pitch: it's time for the cheer award. The grade level with the loudest and best cheer receives the Spirit Stick - a nicely made stick with a 'pillow' at the top that has our mascot embroidered on it - for that nine weeks. It is a great honor to receive the spirit stick and the students are highly competitive.
Third grade starts off with it's cheer - "I'm bringing sexy back," by Justin Timberlake is the background music for our cheer (music only, the lyrics have been removed). It's fun and the students are enjoying themselves. They face the other grade levels as they cheer.
Then it's fourth grades turn. They are stomping and cheering with powerful force. It was as if the third graders gave a collective gasp after their cheer.
Then it was fifth grades turn: their student council members went on the stage and called things out to the fifth grade class and the fifth grade class answered - LOUDLY. They too stomped. And they clapped. "We will, we will, rock you!" Stomp, stomp. Clap. Clap.
The judges deliberated for only a few minutes and then gave the verdict: fifth grade won. A huge uproar was heard. We all clapped for them.
I just marvelled at the interaction of the grade levels. Every student in the different grades seemed aware of where they were in the order of things: third grade realizing they were the 'babies' (not in a bad way either), fourth graders the 'middle' child, and then fifth graders, the oldest. I felt like the students knew where their places were, and were proud to be there. I think overall this awards assembly was a commanding experience.
We intend to get that stick the next go around! We will and I'll tell you how when we do! :)
Blessings!

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

Confessions

Hello world-wide-web,
Heavenly Father,
     Thank you. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
As I'm waiting in line to go confession, I'm reflecting on this great sacrament Catholics have in our religion. My Protestant brothers and sisters don't understand the need to tell someone their sins. They are correct when they say you can go to your room and tell God what your sins are, but for me that's almost too easy. I almost feel like I can get away with everything and anything that way, because, really who am I accountable to? Yes, myself, and most certainly God, but I prefer to confess to someone with skin. Besides, how often would I actually go to my room and attest to my wrongdoings? For me, the priest is not God, but he represents Jesus on Earth. And even for all the scandals we as Catholics have suffered for the small number of pedophile priests - and No, I am NOT by ANY means saying the small number makes the behavior excusable - Hell no! -  I do believe my priest is a good man, who upholds our faith and the sanctity of all the sacraments, including confession. I fully have faith in God that this man of the cloth has come to do God's and Christ's bidding.
As I'm thinking these thoughts, and writing them down, I return to reflecting on what I'll acknowledge in the confessional. Once I enter the room, I'll have the option to sit in front of the priest, or I may kneel at a screen provided for privacy. My personal thought on the face-to-face or sitting with the priest, is this, "If I had the audacity to sin, then I should have the audacity to face the sin with the priest." I go face-to-face.
My confession will start with the prayer, "Forgive me father, for I have sinned. It's been (insert time) since my last confession."
The priest may read a passage from scripture.
Then I tell him my personal offenses - use your imagination - (you didn't actually think I was going to tell you, did you? ;) ). These are violations I have thought of, prayed over, and meditated on long before I stood in line at the confessional. I am truly sorry for the things I've done, and for not stepping up the plate and doing good when it needed to be done, and that's what makes telling the priest my faults so wonderful! It's time to release all the guilt that goes with sinning.
I will then say an Act of Contrition:
O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended you and I detest all my sins, because I dread the loss of heaven and the pains of hell. But most of all because I have offended you, my God, who are all good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve with the help of your grace, to confess my sins, to do penance and to amend my life. Amen.
As I listen to the absolution, the sacramental forgiveness of the Church through the ordained priest, the priest and I will make the sign of the cross. If the priest closes by saying, "Give thanks to the Lord for He is good," I'll answer, "For His mercy endures forever."
At that powerful moment when I am forgiven and cleansed of my sins - I am humbled. I am forgiven - again!
I will leave the confessional, kneel in a pew, thank God for forgiving me, and do my penance. Then I walk out of the church, blissfully aware that I am a Child of God. :)
God bless you, everyone!
*Some of the information shared in this blog was taken from the website: http://www.catholic.org/prayers/confession.php if you'd like to know more about confession, please feel free to visit this website.
"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

Death was cheated

Hello world-wide-web,
      Thank you Heavenly Father for all the heroes in our daily lives: ordinary people, like our family, friends and parents, who make our lives so much better. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Brian Wood, a computer gaming designer from North Vancouver, and his pregnant wife, Erin, were driving home on Friday, September 17th. Nothing unusual about this, couples are happily married (remember, 50% of all marriages LAST), wives gets pregnant, and driving home is an everyday occurence.
On the other side of the freeway, two twenty-year-olds were high on drugs when the driver decided to take off her sweater and asked her friend to take the steering wheel while she did so. The truck swerved, crossed the center lane and headed straight for Brian and Erin. I think Brian's gaming ability came in handy as I imagine him assessing the situation quickly and breaking a hard right - causing the oncoming vehicle to crash into himself, but saving his wife and unborn child. Brian went straight to Heaven in that heroic act of love, and his wife and baby cheated death because of his ultimate sacrifice. Rest in peace, Brian; the world is better having had you in it.

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

My New Digs

Hello world-wide-web,
     Thanks, Lord, for the many blessings you've bestowed on my family, friends and especially me. I thank you for the continued healing of the couple who had a miscarriage, the child in the hospital, and for all triumphs over evil. Thank you for a smooth school-changing transition. Thank you for always having my back. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
     This is the second week at my new school and I feel like I am starting to understand how things are done in this new environment, and I'm relaxing more as my comfort level grows. Here are just some of the perks I've enjoyed: wearing jeans on Fridays and Mondays. Then there's "Fun Friday," where all the students who did their homework for the week get a half hour of 'free time'. The 'free time' is academic, of course; the students are shown a discovery channel video, or a Magic School bus show...in our area, since there are four teachers, one teacher serves as a 'study hall' teacher and all the students who didn't do their homework for the week are sent to her room, with their unfinished work to be done. The students who did their homework are sent to one of the other three teachers.
     I like the way duty is done as well: I have a half hour off every day, in addition to my conference time, while the other teachers take the students into their rooms for recess, or, if the weather is nice and not too hot, outside to a playground. In our case, I have the first half hour free. During the second half hour, the teachers on recess duty are off, and we take the kids to lunch. I didn't know how I'd like this arrangement at first, but I've liked it thus far.
     My teammates are nice, highly supportive of each other, and friendly. The staff in general, for being such a big school, has been highly welcoming. The principal hugged me the first day she met me.I thought it would be strange driving and walking into a new school, but I already feel like I've been at this school for years, in a good way.
     The best part of my job, of course, is the students. They are a rambunctious, talkative, intelligent group of children. We have a nice mix too: African Americans, Indian, Muslim, European American, and Mexican-Americans.  My own students still don't know what to make of me: am I mean, or just kidding around with them? I see the quizzical LoOkS on their faces as they seem to be asking themselves, "Is she seriously going to make me accountable for my actions? (you bet!)" "Will she really call my parents if I do something terrible?" (of course!) "Did she just give me cub cash for answering that question correctly?" (indeed I did!) "Is treasure box for real?" (uh-huh!) "Is she just plain crazy?!" (!!!)
     This coming week I am a 'star'; meaning I'll be 'featured' on the morning announcements. I need to introduce myself and come up with some interesting things to tell everyone about myself...I'll ask my students for some suggestions...

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world". Mother Theresa

Curly hair Haven!

Hello world-wide-web,

      Thank you Heavenly Father for blessing Olgita to tell me about this wonderful salon!

      To all my naturally curly-haired friends and readers, I need to shamelessly give a plug to this FAB place.

     The owner, Claudia, cut my hair yesterday.

      But before I go into greater detail about The Styling Hutch, I must tell you, if you are curly headed and don't know about and use the products of a woman in NYC named Ouidad, then you are truly missing out on some great hair goods! I mention Ouidad products because Ouidad also designed a way to cut curly hair - the way it is meant to be cut!

     Claudia, right here in our sweet Plano, Tx, has been taught by Ouidad's professionals and uses her techniques when cutting curly hair. Claudia told me as she clipped away, "I am a great hair stylist, but when I first learned how to cut curly hair I wanted to go back to all my curly-headed clients and apologize. Curly hair is supposed to be cut differently from straight-haired people and I didn't know that! I do now, though, and have been cutting it properly going on six years!"

     I know the basics of curly hair: don't wash often - once a week, if not longer - use a shampoo that doesn't have sulfate in it, Ever. Deep condition at least once a week. Sometimes I just use Conditioner and don't shampoo at all. Use a leave-in conditioner. Condition, condition, condition, as curly hair is often dry, not to mention coarse, but don't despair, as there are products to make curly hair softer. Check out Oudad's products for yourself at http://www.ouidad.com/  and/or google "Naturally curly hair," to learn more about your hair.

     Since I did know 'a little something' about  my hair, Claudia mentioned to me, "All you need is a good hair cut." I felt like I was getting a hair cut for the very first time! I am in recovery from receiving hair cuts for straight hair, lol. I am not blaming hair stylists for not cutting my hair properly; they may not know there IS a way to cut curly hair, or don't have the money for the training, etc. I'm just glad I found Claudia. If you do go to her shop, please tell her I sent you.

Here's the info:

The Styling Hutch

3948 Legacy Dr. #105

Plano, Tx 75023

972-943-0732

website: http://www.stylinghutch.com/

I had Claudia take pictures of my cut:

Wow, what a dif a great haircut can make!

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

God's plans

Hello world-wide-web,
     Prayers for everyone I said I'd pray for, especially with regard to health. Strengthen all marriages, Lord, and for all singles. Prayers for teachers everywhere: may they be blessed with plenty of patience, compassion and a sense of humor. Heavenly Father, thank you for changes in our lives. May we always remember to rely on You and Your will, and to seek Your will when we are unsure of what the future holds for us. Thank you for being with us throughout our lives; our journey is bearable because of You. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
     We think we know God's plans for us, but we don't. :) I certainly thought I did with regard to this school year. Already having two weeks of team teaching under my belt, I was settling into a groove, happy where I was planted.
     Then came Thursday afternoon. I was done with car pool duty (3:15ish) when my principal and assistant principal asked me into their office. I didn't think anything about this, since, hey, this is how things went when I was told I was going to team teach. I jokingly mentioned to the two administrators, "Haven't we already done something like this? More goodness to come, I suspect?"
     My principal responded, "It depends on how you look at it."
     Still, I'm an optimist, so no worries.
     Turns out the school district decided that since I only had six students in fourth grade, my talents were better served if I moved to another school and helped with eleven third-grade students there.
     Wow. Shocker. I wasn't expecting yet another move! I went into denial for the first couple of hours. Then later of course there was acceptance. Now I am completely on-board with the decision and happy to move. Yes, I am anxious about teaching a different grade level, meeting a new team, and being at a school where I don't know anyone, but I am a flexible professional and will do my best to help my student's be successful, while enjoying the change of scenery along the way. I went from thinking, "Wow, no one knows me," to "Wow, no one knows me!" he he. Brand new start.
     We told the students Friday afternoon about the changes. We were all sad, of course, but I assured them I will call and see how they are doing, as well as send emails to ask about their progress.
     My current team has been really sweet in saying good-bye: they bought me a gift card to Starbucks, a deliciously scented candle, some pretty paisley sticky pads, and bagels for our last meeting together. I will miss them. We spent six years (this would have been my seventh) together, but we are friends on FB, so we'll keep in touch.
     The priest at mass yesterday said that God wants us to keep Him #1 in our lives. "Without Jesus as the center of our lives, who knows what can happen to us? But with Jesus at our center, we can rest assured we are being taken care of."
     Check this out: my new school's name is Christie! I think of it this way: "Christ - ie," or "Christ, that Is." :)
     As the great Winston Churchill once said, "For myself I am an optimist - it does not seem to be much use being anything else." My thoughts exactly!
    
"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa

God is good, all the time

Hello world-wide-web,
     Heavenly Father, please bless and guide all eyes reading this blog, as well as all singles, marrieds, the widowed, the lonely, and those who have no one to pray for them. In Your Name, Lord. Amen.
      I am only three classes away from completing my master's in school counseling- Exciting! God willing, I will graduate Spring, 2011. Whenever I couldn't afford a class, or books, I'd ask God if this was the career He wanted for me, and *bam* the money invariably shows up right when I need it, and from unexpected places. I take this good fortune to mean God's resounding "Yes!" that I am on the path He has laid out for me. And so it is for all of us: remember that God has a blueprint for you. I was given yet another example of God's purpose, and confirmation of that design, this past Wednesday.
     Wednesday was the day my principal, asst. principal and I had a meeting. Thinking this gathering probably had something to do with the five students enrolled in my class this year, I wasn't alarmed. I didn't like the idea of such a small class and I know my principal didn't either, because we exchanged emails during the summer pretty much saying this exact thing. Interestingly enough, in my principal's last email to me she wrote, "I don't have any control over moving you within the district. That will have to come from a power greater than me."  He he. I was thinking, "Yes, it will: God."
     My principal opened our conference with, "Per our emails, I don't know of any plans the district has of moving you to another school, but I am hiring another second grade teacher. Now, you are probably wondering what this has to do with you, but because we have a new teacher in second grade, we need a classroom for her. The Gifted and Talented teacher's room is on the second grade hallway and she needs a room. Since you only have five students, we thought it would be best to move you and let the GT teacher have your room. Here's our solution for you, you'll stay in fourth grade, and how would you like to team teach with ---?"
     My first reaction when I heard 'second grade' was panic, because I feared I was being moved to teach second grade. Whew! Dodged that bullet. (I prefer teaching older students.) But then I jolted to attention when I heard the words, 'team teaching,' smiled broadly at both principals and happily said, "Yes!"     
     This conversation took place two days before "Meet the Teacher," which was Friday at 4pm. This was also the third time I'd be changing classrooms in two years, and yet I was thrilled at the news. Attitude really IS everything, as I've learned the hard way.
     But I was mostly enchanted by the prospect of moving because I realized almost immediately what was going to happen: my room was going to disappear. I'd been wondering what I going to do with 16 years of accumulated 'stuff' when I changed careers. Now I had my answer: give it away, or throw it away. Nice, Lord, thanks.
      My roomie has graciously given me a nice corner of her room, complete with  a window, a sink and shelves; I got rid of a TON of junk, put books in storage, settled in for "Meet the Teacher," and the first week of school, all told the move took about a day and a half. Amazing. PTL
     At the end of this school year, then, I will only have my 'necessities.' Not much packing involved, or needed. And, when you think about Life, all we need is God. He'll take care of the rest.

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world." Mother Theresa