A Bit of Catholic Trivia

DSC_0057
Originally uploaded by Patricia Drury

The first bishop of the United States was John Carroll, brother of Daniel Carroll (who signed the Constitution) and cousin to Charles Carroll (who singed the Declaration of Independence).

Born...in 1735 John attended a Jesuit grammar school in Maryland and St. Omer's College in Flanders. In 1753, he joined the Society of Jesus. At 34, He was ordained in Europe and taught philosophy and theology in Belgium for the next four years.

In 1772, Pope Clement XIV dissolved the Society of Jesus under pressure from European Kings who, among other things, didn't like that the Jesuits were subject only to the Pope.

Fr. Carroll returned to the U.S. to serve in Maryland and
Virginia, arriving just as the American Revolution was beginning. Along with his cousin Charles and Benjamin Franklin, he was asked to help convince Canada to either join the American Patriots or remain neutral during the war.

In 1788, Rome gave permission for the establishment of a diocese that would extend from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mississippi River, and from Canada to Florida and directed priests to conduct an election to choose the bishop. In 1790, priests elected Fr,Carroll; he was consecrated bishop in 1790.

In a 2008 talk honoring Archbishop Carroll, Archbishop Timothy Dolan of Milwaukee noted: "Had Carroll not stepped into the wasteland, either the microscopic Catholic Church would have languished, with member leaving clergy adrift,souls lost, to the faith and the Church never quite 'making it' in the new country or Rome would have appointed a foreign superior...thus making the Catholic Church seem even more an outsider than ever."

Carroll was a close friend of George Washington, and delivered a funeral tribute when Washington died in 1799.
~~The Blue Book~~

The Road to Providence

Photo by peatadownunder1

My journey with Christ has gone through many transitions. Just as in our humanity we age and mature, so it should be in our spirituality. The last two months of my journey to become an Associate of the Sisters of Providence have focused on prayer.

While we met yesterday, Sister Dorothy and I discussed many things about prayer. For one who has wept because she thought she could not pray or even learn to pray as a young mother and how the way I prayed was certainly unacceptable to God as I grew older, I learned by my study this last month that, Indeed, He has always been there. And my life, as I choose to live, it can be prayer.

Reflecting on my life, I have developed a mental scrapbook. A book I now call Providential Life. I could spend days sharing with you the ways in which the Triune God has affected and shaped my life.

Though I think the story of God's providence in my life is Pulitzer prize material and how I would love to share the tales of His presence in my life, I will not. (I heard the sigh!) I would simply ask each of you to sit quietly in His presence and share once again those times when he was near at hand. Reflect on the times you were most aware of that presence and soon He will be reminding you of all the other times you have forgotten.

The key is to be quiet! This is a tool I have been working on for years. I do think the more I practice the larger my wonderful scrapbook will become. It's great when you can collaborate when preparing a book even though you and He are the only ones to see the pages in your mind. Give it a try!!

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Thanks be to God!

Meditation, Walking on Water With Jesus

Peter Walking On Water.
Originally uploaded by J.Rashid

From today's Magnificat.

May the Lord give us
all the courage that we need
to go the way he shepherds us.

That when he calls
we may go unfrightened.

If he bids us come to him
across the waters,
that unfrightened we may go

And if he bids us climb a hill
may we not notice that it is a hill,
mindful only of
the happiness of his company.

He made us for himself,
that we should travel with him
and see him at the last
in his unveiled beauty
in the abiding city where
he is light
and happiness
and endless home,

Father Bede Jarrett, O.P.

Father Jarrett (+ 1934) was a Dominican priest from England renowned for his preaching, his lectures,and many books on theology and spirituality.

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Today is my Road to Providence Day. Pray we are blessed by the had of the Holy Spirit and we both have save travel.

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Thanks be to God

What are you looking for?

Crow insearch of water
Originally uploaded by makphoto

This is a humorous picture of crows searching for water. We look at the crow with the Styrofoam cup and laugh! How funny!!

Amy Welborn takes us someplace else when we ask that question.

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"When Jesus turned and saw them following, he said to them, 'What are you looking for?'"
~John 1:38~

More times than I care to admit, I stride into a room or up the stairs with a great air of purpose and then come to a stop, bewildered. I haven't a clue as to why I'm there.

What is the world was I looking for?

If Jesus were to stop us in the middle of our confident daily journeys from room to room, meeting to meeting, and goal to goal and ask us the question he poses to the disciples here would we have an answer?

Lord, help me look at my life today and discern what it is I'm looking for.

A Catholic Woman's Book of Days

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I read this and then reflected on tie question EasterA posed on her blog yesterday and have the feeling I am called to act! And so now I call on the Holy Spirit to help me answer that question, "What am I looking for?" Discernment comes in many forms. This came in a simple question from a friend's blog.

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Thanks be to God!

"Crow in search of water" originally uploaded by makphoto

My Maker

Picture by
Irish Patchwork Society

The gifts just keep on arriving. Had to share this one, in all its beauty. You may never look at a quilt in the same way again!

My Maker

As I faced my Maker at the last judgment, I knelt before the Lord along with all the other souls.

Before each of us laid our lives like the squares of a quilt in many piles; an angel sat before each of us sewing our quilt squares together into a tapestry that is our life.

But as my angel took each piece of cloth off the pile,
I noticed how ragged and empty each of my squares was. They were filled with giant holes. Each square was labeled with a part of my life that had been difficult, the challenges and temptations I was faced with in every day life. I saw hardships that I endured, which were the largest holes of all.

I glanced around me. Nobody else had such squares. Other than a tiny hole here and there, the other tapestries were filled with rich color and the bright hues of worldly fortune. I gazed upon my own life and was disheartened.

My angel was sewing the ragged pieces of cloth
together, threadbare and empty, like binding air.

Finally the time came when each life was to be displayed, held up to the light, the scrutiny of truth. The others rose; each in turn, holding up their tapestries. So filled their lives had been. My angel looked upon me, and nodded for me to rise.

My gaze dropped to the ground in shame I hadn't had all the earthly fortunes. I had love in my life, and laughter. But there had also been trials of illness, and wealth, and false accusations that took from me my world, as I knew it. I had to start over many times. I often struggled with the temptation to quit, only to somehow muster the strength to pick up and begin again. I spent many nights on my knees in prayer, asking for help and guidance in my life. I had often been held up to ridicule, which I endured painfully, each time offering it up to the Father in hopes that I would not melt within my skin beneath the judgmental gaze of those who unfairly judged me.

And now, I had to face the truth. My life was what it was, and I had to accept it for what it was.

I rose and slowly lifted the combined squares of my life to the light.

An awe-filled gasp filled the air. I gazed around at the others who stared at me with wide eyes.

Then, I looked upon the tapestry before me. Light
flooded the many holes, creating an image, the face of Christ. Then our Lord stood before me, with warmth and love in His eyes. He said, 'Every time you gave over your life to Me, it became My life, My hardships, and My struggles.

Each point of light in your life is when you stepped aside and let Me shine through, until there was more of Me than there was of you.'

May all our quilts be threadbare and worn, allowing Christ to shine through!

God determines who walks into your life....it's up to you to decide who you let walk away, who you let stay, and who you refuse to let go.'

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Thanks be to God!

The Year In Review MEME

Saw on Therese's site Aussie Coffee Shop and will give it a try.

How to Play. 1) Look back to your archives for 2008.) Collect the first sentence you wrote every month for the whole year. (This doesn't have to be the literal first day of the month--just the first post.)3) Entertain us on your blog, link back here, and post a comment here with the link to your blog. (And if you're blogless, just remember the first sentence you spoke every month for the whole year and post it here.

Here Is my contribution.

January Do you remember this picture, those "neolithic-looking" rocks, that I thought were so ugly,The Traveler is Home? Link

February I would ask you all to visit Kathleen at The Daily Grotto for the entire story but needless to say this young lady, Melissa, is in need of our prayers. Link

March By e-mail I got an update from China Little Flower and the work Shannon Walsh is doing for those unfortunate children she works with. Link

April We sometimes forget that there is more to Easter than the celebration of our Lord's Resurrection Day. Link

May Simply put, this is a day in which we can all come together in communion with all faiths to pray for the "health" of our nation. Link

June I was wondering what I was going to say after I had posted The Last Lecture. Link

July I've been tagged again. Link

August mother cradles child,,, she caresses her with love...that's what mothers do. Link

September It time for the most recent newsletter for China Little Flower. Link

October When it's your one of your namesakes feast day you find ways to celebrate. Link

November Well, wouldn't you know? Link

December Even with viruses going around everywhere, it seems that one never expects the one you rely on heavily to get one. Link


Well, as you can see. I had quite a year. The blessing about doing this MEME is that I had the time to reflect on the year by not only going to the 1st post of the month, but also stopping by to read some of the others and read the comments of those generous friends who came by to pay a visit.

I say thank you to Therese for this MEME opportunity and I encourage others to do it too. It is a wonderful tool for reflection. If you choose to do this MEME please let me know so that I can come and reflect with you!!

*The MEME started here at Amy's Word from the Herd
*Visit also Linda at ~~A Truckers Wife~~, Peggy at A Catholic Notebook

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Thanks be to God!!!

There Is no significance attributed to the picture I just wanted to use it because I like it. It's called The Cherry Tree, Cherry Willingham, Lincolnshire by Lincolnian

Bad Haiku Friday

The New Year has come
Hooray and Hallelujah
Peace and Joy to ALL!

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Had such a grand day yesterday! We went to see Bedtime Stories with Kellie and Neil. All went to Sonic and I got my New Year's Cherry Lime Slush. We came home and watched the Monk Marathon. Now, can there be anything better than that?

Ron, Kellie and Neil are all sleeping in and now I must get ready for WORK!!

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Thanks be to God!!!

NEW YEAR, 2009

Wishing all a Happy Holy New Year
with Thanks be to

God!

It should be noted that you may have seen this video here before. It's one of my favorites!

Preview

New Year Reflection

St. Meinrad Archabbey
Originally uploaded by cindy47452

Notice I didn't title this "New Year Resolutions." I make them and break them just as readily. For several years now I have not even attempted any. When the kids were still small and living at home I would set a goal. That, I think, is different than a "resolution."

At any rate here is my reflection by Archabbot Lambert Reilly , O.S.B. from his book Latin Sayings for Spiritual Growth.

Maria montisque polliceri
("The promise of the seas and the mountains")

There is a German saying, "Big in the head and little in the follow-up." Some promises, made in moments of excitement or offered as an extension of our pride, are impossible to keep. Such promises as these are simply beyond the power of the speaker. Do we recall Peter's promises of faithfulness to Christ and his failure to keep them?

God's promises seem the most extreme of all: A child will be born of a virgin. our sins, no matter how great,are forgiven. Spend your days on earth loving God first, and death will not really be the end.

Wild fantasies? Impossible visions? Not with Good, the One who can do a thing, the One who can do all things.

With that same God, we can do some impossible things, too. We can be at peace with life as it is, rather than striving for more. We can forgive. We can even love our enemies.

It's all because of faith. I faith, we take on the mind of God, open our hearts to His strength, and live within the peace of His promises.

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This New Year brings we again to, NOT a new beginning, but an extension of the years gone by. It does offer us possibilities to live as God's chosen. As Fr. C wrote in his blog about the Inner Light, we can be mirrors of Christ to those we encounter along our way. I hope to recognize Christ as my companion this year. My hope is that all will recognize Christ as their companion this year.

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Thanks be to God

The Cherry Tree Carol (Trad.) - José Feliciano

This is an excerpt from The Blue Book. It relates to one of the legends that surround the season of Christmas.

A legend or a fable is a story that doesn't pretend to be historical, but teaches a lesson. The events surrounding the flight of the Holy Family to Egypt gave rise to many legends.

The Legend of the Cherry Tree

Mary and Joseph were traveling to Bethlehem for the census.

Along the way,they passes a cherry orchard. The ;pregnant Mary asked her Husband to pick some cherries for her but Joseph told her to have the child's father do it. Then the child in Mary's womb moved. He spoke and told it to lower a branch toward Mary.

As Joseph Watched the miracle,he was sorry for his harsh words.

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How often do I behave as Joseph in this story? This story can be a reminder for me daily as I move among God's people. I am called to service. I can offer a reply like Joseph's or I can offer assistance. I am not to rely on someone else's generosity. I am to offer my own, whatever that may be. Or like Joseph God will remind me and I too will be humbled and feel remorse at my neglect. Stories like this are true lessons of real charity, love!

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Thanks be to God!!

Bad Haiku Friday

Christmas was Merry
But the best is yet to come
Today we gather.

Not all will be here
In spirit they all will be
And thanks be to God!

This year is the Keller year to have what I call the Extended Christmas Celebration Day (or ECCD). Jimmy and Kelly have been here since Christmas Eve and with all the Ackermans we had the traditional Clam Chowder dinner.

Mass was attended on Christmas Day. Always, joyful, it was a bit somber as Kelly's grandmother passed away only Sunday. So as the "babe" was blessed and placed in the manger, I reflected on how fragile life really is and was reminded again how the treasure of life should be acknowledged to everyone at all times.

Returned home the share time and watch videos not related to the holiday. We laughed, cringed, and yes, nodded off. We all went to the Laura and Roy's (daughter--The Ackermans) for dinner and WII, A really great day!

BUT today, all but the Charlotte Kellers will arrive. There'll be turkey, stuffing and all else. YUMMMM!!!! Finally, in late afternnoon we will share that special time when the little ones will open their gifts and we can rest in the glow of the family.

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AGAIN!
THANKS BE TO GOD!!!

Simon is ailing again...

Friday, "Simon" went on the Fritz again. Have had the chance to use the computer at work...Miss sharing with all of you, but has offered me a chance to reflect and accomplish some tasks I have postponed. If I don't get him home before Christmas, please know I am thinking about all of you and your families and wishing you all the Blessing that Christ our Savior can offer!

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Thanks be to God!!!

The First Christmas Gift!!

My goodenss! I am receiving treasures untold this year! From me to you as it came to me! Thank you, Kay!

The First Christmas Gift!

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Thanks be to God!

IMPORTANT RECALL NOTICE

The Maker of all human beings is recalling all units manufactured,regardless of make or year, due to a serious defect in the primary and central component of the heart.

This is due to a malfunction in the original prototype units code named Adam and Eve, resulting in the reproduction of the same defect in all subsequent units.

This defect has been technically termed:"Subsequential Internal Non-Morality", or more commonly known as S.I.N.,as it is primarily expressed.

Some other symptoms include:

1. Loss of direction

2. Foul vocal emissions

3. Amnesia of origin

4. Lack of peace and joy

5. Selfish or violent behavior

6. Depression or confusion in the mental component

7. Fearfulness

8. Idolatry

9. Rebellion

The Manufacturer, who is neither liable nor at fault for this defect, isproviding factory-authorized repair and service free of charge to correct this SIN defect. The Repair Technician, Jesus, has most generously offered to bear the entire burden of the staggering cost of these repairs. There is no additional fee required. The number to call for repair in all areas is:

P-R-A-Y-E-R.

Once connected, please upload your burden of SIN through the REPENTANCE procedure. Next, download ATONEMENT from the Repair Technician, Jesus, intothe heart component.

No matter how big or small the SIN defect is, Jesus will replace it with:

1. Love

2. Joy

3. Peace

4. Patience

5. Kindness

6. Goodness

7. Faithfulness

8. Gentleness

9. Self control

Please see the operating manual, the B.I.B.L.E. (Believers' InstructionsBefore Leaving Earth) for further details on the use of these fixes.

WARNING: Continuing to operate the human being unit without correction voids any manufacturer warranties, exposing the unit to dangers and problems too numerous to list and will result in the human unit beingpermanently impounded.

DANGER: The human being units not responding to this recall action will have to be scrapped in the furnace. The SIN defect will not be permitted to enter Heaven so as to prevent contamination of that facility.

Thank you for your attention!

God

Please assist where possible by notifying others of this important recallnotice and you may contact the Father any time by "kneemail".

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I can only add, Thanks be to God!!

(This was sent to me by a friend. Please feel free to share it wherever and whenever you can!)

Marie Antoinette Award

Tracy at a Catholic Mom in Minnesota has graciously offered me this award. If the picture appears different than on other blogs it's because that one apparently is not one of Marie. It struck me as odd that Marie Antoinette should be chosen as the cause for an award so I did do some research. It is intended for those who are deemed "real" in who they are. And so I am honored. I am to pass this award on to 7 other bloggers who exhibit this quality in their blog. Well I will do my best! And thank you Miss Tracy for this opportunity!

1. Bia

2. Melody

3. Linda

4. SuzyQ

5. Lisa

6.Kathleen

7. Kimberly

My best to everyone and may you all have a wonderful day.

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Thanks be to God!

O Antiphons

Today's instruction in The Little Blue Book is about the O Antiphons. I'll let it speak for itself. and when you are finished here please visit Lisa at Unexpected Journey as she also has a wonderful post regarding them as well.

The Divine Office made use of Psalms and other Scripture passages over and
over on a regular rotation. Over the years, the practice developed of
praying an "antiphon" before and after each Psalm and canticle. This is
the sentence or two from Scripture which "frames" the fixed text. The
antiphons vary with the feast or season, and each one colors the fixed text with
a different accent.

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On this day during Advent the O Antiphons begin and will continure through Christmas Eve.

The particular antiphon for the day can be found in two places:

*It is part of the Alleluia verse for the Liturgy of the day.

*In the evening, it is placed before the Magnificat at Vespers for the Liturgy of the Hours.

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The Advent antiphons are call the "O Antiphons" because each day's antiphon begins with and "O"...O Wisdom, O Key of David, O Flower of Jesse"s stem...

The Little Blue Book

Advent and Christmas Seasons

2008-2009

I am always amazed how much more I still must learn about my faith and the beauty it has to offer us daily as we journey on this pilgrimage.

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Thanks be to God!

A Visit With St. Paul

I have neglected my reading of the reflections on St. Paul. Thought today I would begin again and try to be more diligent. Only time will tell. The message of hope in this reflection is one I feel compelled to share because, although, every year this season brings us most vividly to the Hope we all have in a bright future, this year seems to demand Hope be a part of who we are. It is imperative the we manifest this hope in all we do and say and live. Please "listen" to Sister Mary Thomas Noble, O.P. from Praying With Saint Paul.

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O Blessed Hope!

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"We await the blessed hope, the appearance of the glory of
the great God and of our savior Jesus Crist, who gave himself
for us to deliver us from all lawlessness and to cleanse for
himself a people as his own, eager to do what is good."

(Ti 2: 13-14)

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What part does hope play in my life? Do I hope mainly for things or for people? Or do I hope for events? As a child I once hoped for a rubber ball with all my heart. It was exactlly the size I wanted and had swirls of colors on it, all the right colors. I showed it to my mother in the store. It cost twenty-five cents. She pointed out to me several bigger, better balls, but I couln't have cared less. I knew what I wanted. No other ball would do. When I tore the wrappings off the little rubber ball on the morning of my eighth birthday and tossed them on the breadfast table, I know an unadulterated and absolute content such as I have rarely experienced since I dashed outdoors with my sister before school and threw it, threw it, threw it back and forth across our front lawn in a kind of ecstasy. Hope fulfilled! Such a small hope, just my size. God would like to stretch our longing hearts to hold much more, even himself. Will we let him do it? "We await the blessed hope..." Do we? "...the appearance of the glory of the great God, and of our Savior Jesus Christ..." How high do we set our sights? Do we have hopes to match God's hopes for us? His is a radiant hope. There is glory ahead for us, there is deliverance, there is an indescribable purity to be achieved only through his blood. Each one of us would be totally, uniquely his, were he to have his hopes fulfilled. Our sights would be set on doing "what is good" beyond all our wildest imaginings, empowered as we should be as "his people." His hopes for us will lift us to the blessed vision of himself. Where he will hold us, and we shall not fall.

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O God, stretch my heart wide with blessed hope, to hold the all that you would give me--your very self!

I find as I reflect on this that my hope and expectation are pretty limited. Perhaps I fear that my hopeful expectations will not be realized and disappointment will insue. The lesson for me is to have high expectations. If the results seem less, they are better than none at all and if they are greater than hope for what joy I can experience. I should be hope-filled, not just hopeful.

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Thanks be to God!

The Prince of Peace Award

I have been privileged to receive this gift from Marie and Ginny at View From The Pews. A treasure for me and a reminder that Christmas is Christ. I have been gone long enough with the problems I have had with the computer that I don't know who has received this and who has not. So it is that I offer this award in the spirit of Christ's love to all who have touched my life in so many wonderful ways since I started A Bit of the Blarney.

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Thanks be to God!

The Season of Thanks

Many moons ago, before Simon became ill, I was offered the opportunity to share with you six reasons I am happy. Now with his return I can reply. Thank you Esther for this opportunity.


According to the rules, I have to post six things that make me really happy ... and pass it on to give six more people a reason to be thankful!


1. My husband, Ron and, 40 years of marriage, and this my birthday, 62 years. (I know that's really 3).

2. My five children and 9 grandchildren

3. An occupation in nursing that gives me the opportunity to serve

4. A Parish family that gives love and support at every opportunity.

5. Good friends

6. Having the freedom to love and worship God and share my Catholic faith with others.



I have tagged:

1. Kelly

2. Laura A

3. Laura

4. Suz

5. Yvette

6. Tracy

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For you all, I say,

"Thanks be to God!"

G K Chesterton

G K Chesterton
Originally uploaded by raymaclean

My favorite book at Christmas time is Advent and Christmas, Wisdom from G. K. Chesterton. published by Ligouri Press.

Today's reflection is:

The Camel and the Needle

I know that the most modern manufacture has been
really occupied in trying to produce and abnormally large needle. I know that
the most recent biologists have been chiefly anxious to discover a very small
camel. But is we diminish the camel to his smallest, or open the eye of the
needle to its largest--if, in short we assume the words of Christ to have ment
the very least that they could mean, His words must at the vers least mean
this--that rich men are not very likely to be morally trustworthy--There is one
thing that Christ and all the Christian saints have said with a sory of savage
monotony. They have said simly that to be rich is to be in peculiar danber of
moral wreck.

NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE WITH GOD

Then Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, "How hard it will be for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of Go!" And the disciples were perplexed at these words. But Jesus said to them again, "Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God." They were greatly astounded and said to one nother, "Then who can be saved?" Jesus look at them and said, "for
mortals it is impossible, not for God; for god all things are
possible."

Mark 10:23-27

Prayer

Jesus, you spoke hard words about the rich yourn ruler. We
confess that we are too much like him; together we form a camel train grudging
toward the tiniest needle, its speck of an eye. How can we hope to pass
through into the kidom of God? We rely on oyou, god for the Impossible,
and not ourselves. Make us into what you would have us be.

Advent Action

Once when she was asked how much money a person should give away,
Mother Teresa answered that we should give until it hurts--and then give some
more. You can imagine what a camel would feel like trying to squeeze
through the eye of the needle. Perhaps our giving should create
commensurate pain. Take a moment and think about the charitable giving
that you have done this year. What more can you give away even after it
hurts you?

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Enough said!

Thanks be to God!!

It's Great To Be Back...

photo by OldTasty

but tomorrow we are gone for the weekend again. Off to INDY to visit and go to the Children's Museum at Christmas! It always a grand place to go. I have to tell you that the glass ceiling as above is just as beautiful as the picture. I am really looking forward to seeing all the Christmas docorations!!! Will be back in the groove soon and will share the trip with you!

I'm so glad Simon is home because now I can travel the world and visit. Missed you all! Will chat soon! I have some catching up to do!!

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Thanks be to God!

Health Update...

Simon is on the mend. He should be up and running soon. Has not had a lot of exercies of late but so glat he had a good "doctor." Will be seeing you all soon!

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Thanks for all the support!

And thanks be to God!!!!!

'Tis the Season...

Even with viruses going around everywhere, it seems that one never expects the one you rely on heavily to get one. Well, it happened. About 3 days ago, after we got back from our Thanksgiving Trek to Charlotte, Simon, The Computer, got sick. Apparently, he has been shaking hands with others who are sick and have not washed their hands.

At any rate, he is at the "Puter Hospital." Hope to know the outcome soon. His friend Maggie, The Monitor, is failing, so will have to retire her and get a new replacement. Until later and I get back to things as normal (What is normal?), I'll be reading mostly from work, but will wait to do most of my commenting until Simon is up and moving again!

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And Thanks be to God for you all!!!

Bad Haiku Friday

Leftover Friday
Turkey, stuffing, sweet taters
Much more Thanksgiving!

All with the family
No day more cherished than this
For all are cherished!

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Truly, Thanks be to God!

Journey of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Day is a wonderful time to reflect on all the things we for which we have to be grateful . And we do it in the presence of family and friends. Actually, everyday is thanksgiving day if we are saying grace at meals and thanking God for who we are and what we have either alone in prayer or in the assembly of others as we publicly give Him Praise and Thanksgiving.

This year we are off to Charlotte, NC to share Thanksgiving with David, Kelly, the Boys and Maddie. The trip to Charlotte is a beautiful drive. And, as it has just occurred to me, the only other time we have been there was again at Thanksgiving. Like a child, I am so excited! Can hardly wait for the journey to begin.

And so it is that I will be away for a few days laughing, playing and EATING...God Bless All and may Thanks be duly given to Him our Creator!

May God be gracious to us and bless us;
May God's face shine upon us.
May the peoples praise you, God;
may all the peoples praise you!
The earth has yielded its harvest;
God, our God, blesses us.
May God bless us still,
that the ends of the earth may revere
our God.

Psalm 67: 1-2, 4, 6-8

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Thanks be to God!

Could Not Resist...

You Are Apple Pie

You're the perfect combo of comforting and traditional. You prefer things the way you've always known them. You'll admit that you're old fashioned, and you don't see anything wrong with that. Your tastes and preferences are classic. And classic never goes out of style. Those who like you crave security. People can rely on you to be true to yourself - and true to them. You're loyal, trustworthy, and comfortable in your own skin. And because of these qualities, you've definitely earned a lot of respect.

What Kind of Pie Are You?

Thanks to Lisa at Are We There Yet I took the TEST...Now I WANT some pie!!! What kind of pie are you all?

*******^j^*******

Thanks be to God!
Don't you just love Thanksgiving Time?

The Simple Women's Daybook

Had to do it this week when all is in preparation for Thanksgiving Day. This is a wonderful time of the year and sharing a what makes it so powerful! After you visit here please visit Peggy at The Simple Woman and journey along the path of life we all share.

1. Outside my window...it's rainings

2. I'm thinking...it's good as we need the rain and it's not snow.

3. I'm thankful for...to have the opportunity to live where Thanksgiving has a special place in our lives and time is taken to spend time with family and friends to share the gratitude.

4. I'm wearing... robe and slippers. (different robe)

5. From the Kitchen...spaghetti and meat sauce (make in the crock pot).

6. I am creating...a sense of calm. I'm trying not get to excited about the trip to Charlotte to visit David, Kelly and the kids.

7. I am reading...Haven't started a new book yet...

8 . I'm hoping...that this week will be full of love, joy, safe travel for all, and true Thanksgiving to the God who made us all.

9. I am hearing...peace and quiet.

10. Around the house...Christmas gifts are wrapped for the journey and suitcases are out but not packed...yet.

11. Few plans for the rest of the week...Safe trip to and from Charlotte and Thanksgiving with the kids.

12. One of my favorite things is...baking and I made two loves of cranberry nut bread! Yummy!

13. Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...

Mount Rushmore
June, 2007

Wishing all a Grand Thanksgiving Week...

~~~^j^~~~
And Thanks be to God!!!

Feast of Corpus Christi

Christ the King

My Speaking
~Anonymous~
12th Century

My speaking,
may it praise you without blemish
may my heart love you,
King of heaven and earth.

My speaking,
may it praise you without blemish
make it easy, great pure King
for me to serve and adore you.

My speaking,
may it praise you without blemish
O Father of all love,
hear my songs and my words.

A Book of Old Irish Monastic Prayer~Poems
translations by Malachi McCormick

Happy, Holy Feast of Corpus Christi !

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Have a Weekend Full of PUN...

Mary Engelbreit

Mother sent me these laugh-out-loud puns. Please "make a joyful noise" as you read them and have a wonderful weekend!

1. The roundest knight at King Arthur's round table was Sir Cumference. He acquired his size from too much pi.

2. I thought I saw an eye doctor on an Alaskan island, but it turned out to be an optical Aleutian.

3. She was only a whiskey maker, but he loved her still.

4. A rubber band pistol was confiscated from algebra class because it was a weapon of math disruption.

5. The butcher backed into the meat grinder and got a little behind in his work.

6. Now matter how much you push the envelope, it'll still be stationery.

7. A dog gave birth to puppies near the road and was cited for littering.

8. A grenade thrown into a kitchen in France would result in Linoleum Blownapart.

9. Two silk worms had a race. They ended up in a tie.

10. Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana.

11. A hole has been found in the nudist camp wall. The police are looking into it.

12. Atheism is a non-prophet organization.

13. Two hats were hanging on a hat rack in the hallway. One hat said to the other, 'You stay here, I'll go on a head.'

14. I wondered why the baseball kept getting bigger. Then it hit me.

15. A sign on the lawn at a drug rehab center said: 'Keep off the Grass.'

16. A small boy swallowed some coins and was taken to a hospital. When his grandmother telephoned to ask how he was, a nurse said, 'No change yet.'

17. A chicken crossing the road is poultry in motion.

18. It's not that the man did not know how to juggle, he just didn't have the balls to do it.

19. The short fortune-teller who escaped from prison was a small medium at large.

20. The man who survived mustard gas and pepper spray is now a seasoned veteran.

21. A backward poet writes inverse.

22. In democracy it's your vote that counts. In feudalism it's your count that votes.

23. When cannibals ate a missionary, they got a taste of religion.

24. Don't join dangerous cults: practice safe sects!

~~^j^~~
Thanks be to God!

Bad Haiku Friday

Powder sugar snow
That dusted the ground today
Like topping on cake.

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Thanks be to God!!!

Praying with St. Paul...

We don't have all the answers. We more often then not make spur-or-the-moment decisions that may or may not be correct. Do we shop for what we need or what we want? Does greed rule our lives when charity should be our goal? Do we judge when understanding and compassion should be our goal? Are we angry and frustrated when serenity and faith should be our goal? Do we think we can do everything ourselves or should spiritual direction be our goal? Do we seek the advise of those who will tell us what we want to hear or should be we going to the source of the Truth be our goal? St. Paul says it so well. Let us reflect with this excerpt from Praying with St. Paul.

The Ultimate Self-Help Book
Jack Sacco

"All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching,
for refutation, for correction, and for training in righteousness,
so that one who belongs to God may be competent, equipped
for every good work."
(2Timothy 3: 16-17)

We live in an age of self-help gurus. Everywhere you look there are self-proclaimed life coaches, mentors, experts and pundits.

all claim they can help us reach our potential while not-t00-subtly implying they will show us the easy road toward wealth and fame. Each has a website. Each has a book. Each has an abundance of tapes and CDs for sale. Each has a seminar that you must attend. And each promises that, for just a few hundred dollars, they can reveal to you the secrets to true happiness and incredible riches.

The trouble is that the information they contain is generally rehashed babble lifted directly from previous self-help books. Most are conglomerations of doublespeak and nonsense with the singular intention of making the guru, not the student, wealthy and happy.

Taking advantage of an emerging spirituality and the marketing thereof, self-help books in recent years have included more and more spiritual overtones. They speak of God, sometimes referring to him as a "higher power" so as not to offend potential buyers. The problem is that they willingly preach a new and unauthorized gospel to people who are too enamored with the potential payout to recognize or even be concerned about the dangers.

This isn't to say that most motivational books don't contain some elements of truth in them. Even a stopped clock is correct twice a day.

But the Sacred Scripture doesn't simply contain "elements of truth. It is TRUTH. And it is the Truth against which all other truths should be measured. We don't need to seek the advise of a plethora of competing self-help gurus when we have the inspired word of God to light our way. That Word, that Truth, will provide each of us with the information we need to become competent and equipped for every good work.

Father, inspire us to read and understand your word, so that we may grow in goodness and be better equipped to do your will. May the Scripture provide us with the inspiration we need to live a life of happiness and contentment.

By Jack Sacco
(a graduate of the University of Notre Dame,
an award winning author, living in Los Angeles
His book Where the Birds Never Sing was
nominated for a Pulitzer Prize)

I am guilty of all the above. I want answers NOW, help NOW, relief NOW, consolation NOW. Scripture has that and more. I just need to slow down and perhaps instead of being so demanding, acquiescence should be my goal.

~~~^j^~~~
Thanks be to God!

Wordless Wednesday for me...

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

What Board Game Are You?

You Are Scrabble

You are incredibly clever and witty. You can talk your way out of (and into) situations easily. You are an excellent decision maker. You are good at weighing the options in front of you. You're the type of person who can make something out of nothing. You are very resourceful. You know a lot of things. Most importantly, you know when people are wrong - even when they won't admit it.

What Board Game Are You?

This was incredible...How did they know that my FAVORITE board game was Scrabble?!?!!! Thank you Therese at Aussie Coffee Shop.

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!!

Tea Time With God

I did it!! Yes, I did. I accomplished everything on the list. It really didn't take all day and I was determined to complete it. I didn't want to fail. So it is that I came upon another one of those lost treasures. A gift given by a friend some time ago. The book is called Tea Time With God. It is a treasure in many ways. First, I call to mind the person who gave it to me and offer a prayer for her and her family. And next it gives me an opportunity to share a lesson I found meaningful to me from the book.

The Grande Finale

For the vision still has its time...

if it delays,wait for it

it will surely come it will not be late.
Habakkuk 2:3 (NAB)

Many of the major symphonies we know and love have what has come to be called "a grand finale." Beethoven's symphonies, in particular, are noted for this. The final movement of the symphony may begin with a gentle and melodious theme, then suddenly there will be a flurry of sound and rhythm that builds, increasing to a climax that often includes a great deal of percussion and every section of the orchestra playing at full tilt. The listener is swept toward a glorious conclusion.

Most projects, and most work days follw a similar pattern. We may call it "momentum," but at 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. we find oursilves shifting into high gear to accomplish everything listed on our agenda.

The closer we get to completion of the project the greater energy we pour into it and the more we are focused. Our work output during the final hour of the day--of the final segment of the project--may be many times more.

Rather than attempt to change this dynamic, go with the flow of it! Enhance the process by giving yourself a tea time. when you can put your feet up for a few seconds and enjoy a little nourishment. Use these quiet moments to regroup, rethink, replan, refocus.

Consider carefully what you must do in the final hour of the day and what you can set aside. Let the advise of the Scriptures ring true in your spirit: "Do not worry about tomorrow; it will take care of itself." (Matthew 6:34 NAB)

Jesus' final three years of ministry were intense and eternally meaningful. They were preceded by at least 25 years of preparation. Take time to rejuvenate yourself before your grand finale!

Though my Saturday was certainly on no grand scale a life changing experience, I did indeed get done the things I set out to do except for one...vaccuuming the family room. The glory in this reflection is that I see that taking time from the chores (and they were chores), I could go back and continue because I took a minute or two for tea...literally.

So, some time today, when things seem to be hovering about, say, "Excuse me, I need a cup of tea (coffee)." It'll do you a world of good. It did for me. And you know the list wasn't so bad...will now doubt make one for next weekend, too.

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Thanks be to God!

~~Picture by 3littlemiracles~~

Schoolhouse Rock

Lisa at Are We There Yet brought back some really fond memories of times spent with the kids on Saturday mornings when she asked if there were any songs that came to mind. So, Lisa, here is my offering! "Thanks for the Memories" (That's a different song altogether!)

Wishing all a Grand Sunday and fond memories. Thank you, Lisa!

~~*~~*~~*~~

Thanks be to God!

Organized Cleaning?

MySpace Graphics - Myspace Layouts,Graphics, and Comments!

Well, I'm up and on a mission...Yep, I have a LIST!! Haven't done house cleaning this way in years. As a matter of fact can't remember the last time I cleaned like this. You know, organized, using the time efficiently without distraction. It's really an experiment to see if I can even do it. So, wish me luck! Will let you know how this "Work List" thing works out! Should be easy today. It's raining!

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Thanks be to God!

I going to try again!!!

I'm determined to get this to work...It is just tooooo good!

The Wisdom in Hot Chocolate


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Thanks be to God!

The Wisdom in Hot Chocolate

It never fails to amaze me! Wherever I least expect it I am sent a gift I must share with everyone!
This happened to me yesterday when Pat my best friend ever since grade school sent me this!! Please enjoy!

The Wisdom in Hot Chocolate

~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~
Thanks be to God!

With Much Gratitude!

Laura at Catholic Teacher Musings kindly offered them this beautiful award. Though like all the others I'm not sure exactly what it says. It is still a delight to have gotten it.


I would like to offer this award to Bia, Danette, and Deborah.





Linda at ~~A Trucker's Wife~~ kindly gave me this award.
Those who know her, know how sensitive and generous she is.
If you've not met her please stop by and see her.

The rules for this award are:
1. Pick ten people and pass this award to them.
2. Then contact them and let them know that you have chosen them and their blog for the award.
3. Also link back to the person who gave you the award.

This task gets more difficult every time I do it.

Kimberly
Kathleen
Marie
Cy
Kaila
Tracy
Esther
Autumnrose
Dorothy
Easter

You all, each and everyone of you lift me up. You are joy to me. Thank you!!!!

~~*~~*~~*~~*~~
Thanks be to God!

Friend of the Soul

I have been trying to find a way to explain what the process of becoming an Associate of the Sisters of Providence is like and having a companion on the journey. Now I have only been on this journey for a short 4 weeks. This morning, however, I have found the most beautiful answer. The journey is made with a companion, a friend, who will journey and share the process with you. She will guide and advise.

My answer came in the the guise of a book suggested to me some months ago by Ann at Prayer, Poetry and Praise. But of course I only just picked it up to read it. So, if you will allow him, John O'Donohue will explain in the most beautiful of words what a "companion" is.

In Celtic tradition, there is a beautiful understanding of love and friendship. One of the fascinating ideas here is the idea of soul-love; the old Gaelic term for this is anam cara. Anam is the Gaelic word for soul and cara is the word for friend. So anam cara in the Celtic world was the "soul friend." In the early Celtic church, person who acted as a teacher, companion, or spiritual guide was called an anam cara. It originally referred to someone to whom you confess, revealing the hidden intimacies of your life. ...This friendship was an act of recognition and belonging. When you had an anam cara your friendship cut across all convention, morality, and category. You were joined in the ancient and eternal way with the "friend of your soul."

In everyone's life, there is great need for an anam cara, a soul friend. In this love, you are understood and you are without mask or pretension. The superficial and functional lies and half-truths of social acquaintance fall away, you can be as you really are. Love allows understanding to dawn, and understanding is precious. Where you are understood, you are at home. Anam Cara, A Book of Celtic Wisdom, by John O'Donohue, pg. 13-14.

Sister Dorothy has been my anam cara for a long time. But now there is a beautiful way of expressing it. Let it also be said that I find that after 40 years I can call Ron, my anam cara. For he was that before those who were to follow. I can say that my life has been blessed with a number of anam cara, but until today I had not had it so beautifully expressed to me.

So, to Ann I say thank you! Now that I have begun the book, I will surely finish it. To everyone, I wish you all the love of your anam cara.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Thanks be to God!

(My friend above is fondly named Father Thomas Daniel)