Tuesday, June 30, 2009

How quickly June went by! In a week we leave for Alaska. I'm nervous about being away from home so long, but I'm sure the time will fly by.

Word of the day:
Tuesday of the Thirteenth week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : 1st Martyrs of Rome (+ 1st century)
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 8:23-27.

He got into a boat and his disciples followed him. Suddenly a violent storm came up on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by waves; but he was asleep. They came and woke him, saying, "Lord, save us! We are perishing!" He said to them, "Why are you terrified, O you of little faith?" Then he got up, rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was great calm. The men were amazed and said, "What sort of man is this, whom even the winds and the sea obey?"


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Monday, June 29, 2009

Word of the day:
Saint Peter and Saint Paul, apostles - Solemnity
Today the Church celebrates : Saints Peter and Paul - Solemnity
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 16:13-19.

When Jesus went into the region of Caesarea Philippi he asked his disciples, "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?" They replied, "Some say John the Baptist, others Elijah, still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets." He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Simon Peter said in reply, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." Jesus said to him in reply, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father. And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven."

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June 27, 2009

The heat is finally starting to let up. I have a couple batches of grubbies to make today to fill an order. I also have to package some simmer scents. It's hard to get into any kind of groove until after Alaska.

The kids stayed over on Thursday night and we all watched Evening Primroses open. I never watch Evening Primroses without thinking of my mother-in-law. Agnes used to love to watch them open every night during the summer. She had thousands of them on the west side of her house. After all the flowers were open, the humming birds would come. We spent many summer evenings across the road watching the primroses open.

I spent the day with Clay and Claire yesterday. We went to Penney's to return an item and Claire entertained everyone by throwing her arms around Clay and declaring "I love you my big brudder." Then she thought it would be fun to wrestle. Then she decided she had to go potty, but all she really wanted was to check out the bathrooms. On the way out of the store she got down on all fours and decided it was time to "extercise." Claire is what my dad used to call "a little hambone."

After that we headed over to the St. Mary's treasure sale where each of them were allowed to pick out 2 things. Claire got a plastic Minnie Mouse and a Blues Clues stuffed dog. Clayton got a stuffed tiger and a wicker pumpkin with a ghost in it (so he could decorate his bedroom for Halloween.) While we were at St. Mary's we went into the church to pick up a folder I needed. Clay thought it was quite cool that we were "sneaking into the church with nobody there."

Next we headed over to Miss Dottie's to deliver an order. Dottie helped us out at a couple of craft shows and took her payment in product.

We got home in time to make lunch for Grandpa. Then it was naptime.

We had pizza with Sam and Kelli last night and I got to spend some quality time with our newest granddaughter. She's a real cutie. Her looks change a little every day.

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Saturday of the Twelfth week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : , , St. Cyril of Alexandria, Bishop and Doctor of the Church (+ 444), St. Lasdilas, King (1041-1095)
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 8:5-17.

When he entered Capernaum, a centurion approached him and appealed to him, saying, "Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, suffering dreadfully." He said to him, "I will come and cure him." The centurion said in reply, "Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed. For I too am a person subject to authority, with soldiers subject to me. And I say to one, 'Go,' and he goes; and to another, 'Come here,' and he comes; and to my slave, 'Do this,' and he does it." When Jesus heard this, he was amazed and said to those following him, "Amen, I say to you, in no one in Israel have I found such faith. I say to you, many will come from the east and the west, and will recline with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the banquet in the kingdom of heaven, but the children of the kingdom will be driven out into the outer darkness, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth." And Jesus said to the centurion, "You may go; as you have believed, let it be done for you." And at that very hour (his) servant was healed. Jesus entered the house of Peter, and saw his mother-in-law lying in bed with a fever. He touched her hand, the fever left her, and she rose and waited on him. When it was evening, they brought him many who were possessed by demons, and he drove out the spirits by a word and cured all the sick, to fulfill what had been said by Isaiah the prophet: "He took away our infirmities and bore our diseases."

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Friday, June 26, 2009

So much going on in the news. Three celebrities left us this week. All three deaths are sad in their own right, but I think we would all agree that Michael Jackson's was the most tragic. Here is a man who never seemed comfortable in his own skin. Never seemed to know who he was. Immensely talented no matter what you thought of him personally. Such a waste. Farrah, a figure of strength and grace in dealing with her battle. Ed McMahon - his passing the end of an era.

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Word of the day:
Friday of the Twelfth week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : St. Josemaría Escrivá de Balaguer - Priest, Founder of Opus Dei - (1902-1975), SS. John and Paul, Martyrs
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 8:1-4.

When Jesus came down from the mountain, great crowds followed him. And then a leper approached, did him homage, and said, "Lord, if you wish, you can make me clean." He stretched out his hand, touched him, and said, "I will do it. Be made clean." His leprosy was cleansed immediately. Then Jesus said to him, "See that you tell no one, but go show yourself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses prescribed; that will be proof for them."

Thursday, June 25, 2009

Got a call this morning from my favorite little 4 year old. "Gramma, can we visit you today?" He and Claire will be spending the night tonight so Mommy can have a head start on garage sales tomorrow morning.

It is 80 degrees already this morning. Harold turned on the basement fan so the laundry room is at least bearable. That's where I will work today.

I got all of the cantor music ready for when I'm gone. I need to finish up the tapes today.

Yesterday I pulled out our luggage for Alaska to measure it and make sure it is within the size limits. It is. So I am claiming the bigger suitcase - sorry Harold.

I made a batch of Lemongrass candles yesterday. I am testing one today. Mmmmmmm. I hadn't thought about using the scent in candles, but a friend requested it so I had to try it. It's a very nice light fragrance. Not sweet like lemon meringue, more like an herbal kind of scent. Today it's my favorite.

Thursday of the Twelfth week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : St. William of Vercelli
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 7:21-29.

Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name? Did we not drive out demons in your name? Did we not do mighty deeds in your name?' Then I will declare to them solemnly, 'I never knew you. Depart from me, you evildoers.' Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock. The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house. But it did not collapse; it had been set solidly on rock. And everyone who listens to these words of mine but does not act on them will be like a fool who built his house on sand. The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house. And it collapsed and was completely ruined." When Jesus finished these words, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.

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Wednesday, June 24, 2009

I woke to another hot humid day. I don't think Harold even bothered rigging the fans today. I put one fan downstairs to pull up the cool air and then put another fan at the top of the stairs to pull it into the laundry room.

I've been making ice like crazy. Harold took a lot of it with him this morning. Hopefully the next batch will be frozen when that batch is gone.

Yesterday I got a lot of cleaning done. The bedroom, living room, and kitchen look great. Today I tackle the laundry room and get all of the music and tapes for church ready.

I found out last night that Harold's cousin and his wife will be on the same cruise that we will be on. That will be fun having someone we know on the cruise with us for the week.


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Word of the day:
The Nativity of Saint John the Baptist - Solemnity
Today the Church celebrates : The Nativity of St. John the Baptist - Solemnity
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Luke 1:57-66.80.

When the time arrived for Elizabeth to have her child she gave birth to a son. Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy toward her, and they rejoiced with her. When they came on the eighth day to circumcise the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said in reply, "No. He will be called John." But they answered her, "There is no one among your relatives who has this name." So they made signs, asking his father what he wished him to be called. He asked for a tablet and wrote, "John is his name," and all were amazed. Immediately his mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God. Then fear came upon all their neighbors, and all these matters were discussed throughout the hill country of Judea. All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, "What, then, will this child be?" For surely the hand of the Lord was with him. The child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the desert until the day of his manifestation to Israel.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Another hot and humid one. We again have fans rigged up all over the house.
I will be making another batch of candles today. I think I'll probably start on the Harvest Home candles for this fall. Today I will grunge the jars. That's a fun job

I'm more than a little concerned about this whole health care thing that is being broadcast from inside the White House. All opposing voices will be silenced, no ads, no rebuttal. So much for transparency. Apparently there was an anti-smoking bill signed yesterday. The government wants to tell us how to live, yet our president smokes quite a bit. Cognitive dissonance? Do as I tell you, not as I do?


Word of the day:
Tuesday of the Twelfth week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : St. Etheldreda, abbess (7th century)
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 7:6.12-14.

Do not give what is holy to dogs, or throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them underfoot, and turn and tear you to pieces. Do to others whatever you would have them do to you. This is the law and the prophets. Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the road broad that leads to destruction, and those who enter through it are many. How narrow the gate and constricted the road that leads to life. And those who find it are few.

Monday, June 22, 2009

Well, it looks like summer has arrived. I'm not sure we ever really had Spring, did we? Do we have Spring in Michigan anymore? Seems like we go from cold to hot without much transition. After a "walk/jog" I have lots to do. Today is Prayer Quilt day, but I don't think I'll be staying very long. I made a quilt top that I'll stay and get sandwiched so I can bring it home and put on the binding. I have a lot of cleaning to do before we leave for Alaska.

Afternoon update:
I actually got all of the laundry done - washed, not put away.
I did about an hour of decluttering in zone 4
Made a batch of Eucalyptus candles
Made a batch of kitchen soap
I'm headed to the craft room to work on stockings.

Word of the day:
Monday of the Twelfth week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : St. Thomas More, St. John Fisher, Bishop and Martyr (1459-1535)
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 7:1-5.

Stop judging, that you may not be judged. For as you judge, so will you be judged, and the measure with which you measure will be measured out to you. Why do you notice the splinter in your brother's eye, but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me remove that splinter from your eye,' while the wooden beam is in your eye? You hypocrite, remove the wooden beam from your eye first; then you will see clearly to remove the splinter from your brother's eye.

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Sunday, June 21, 2009 - Happy Father's Day

Happy Father's day to all of the dads out there. This is indeed a very special Father's Day for one young man. Our son, Sam, became a father last Monday. Little Madison, who was due June 28, decided that she wanted to be here to share Father's day with Sam and Kelli! At this moment I'm guessing that Sam and Kelli are getting little Maddie ready for her first trip to church. Exciting times!

Word of the Day
Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : St. Aloysius Gonzaga
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Mark 4:35-41.

On that day, as evening drew on, he said to them, "Let us cross to the other side." Leaving the crowd, they took him with them in the boat just as he was. And other boats were with him. A violent squall came up and waves were breaking over the boat, so that it was already filling up. Jesus was in the stern, asleep on a cushion. They woke him and said to him, "Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?" He woke up, rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, "Quiet! Be still!" The wind ceased and there was great calm. Then he asked them, "Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?" They were filled with great awe and said to one another, "Who then is this whom even wind and sea obey?"

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Immaculate Heart of Mary - Memorial
Today the Church celebrates : Ss Alban, Julius and Aaron
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Luke 2:41-51.

Each year his parents went to Jerusalem for the feast of Passover, and when he was twelve years old, they went up according to festival custom. After they had completed its days, as they were returning, the boy Jesus remained behind in Jerusalem, but his parents did not know it. Thinking that he was in the caravan, they journeyed for a day and looked for him among their relatives and acquaintances, but not finding him, they returned to Jerusalem to look for him. After three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions, and all who heard him were astounded at his understanding and his answers. When his parents saw him, they were astonished, and his mother said to him, "Son, why have you done this to us? Your father and I have been looking for you with great anxiety." And he said to them, "Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father's house?" But they did not understand what he said to them. He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them; and his mother kept all these things in her heart.

Friday, June 19, 2009

I managed to get something accomplished yesterday. I finally got all of the laundry put away. I packed the honey, oats & milk soap, the berry pickin', the country apple, and the olive oil. Got a little bit of straightening done down in the craft dungeon. I've been sadly remiss in the making of Christmas stockings.

I worked on a friend's afghan last night - her grandson is getting married in October. Years ago she went to Ireland brought back some Irish wool that has been sitting in my closet all that time.

I made a chicken pot pie for Sam and Kelli yesterday and of course I had to run it over there and take a peek at Madison. Daddy was just coming out of her room and informed me that she had smiled at him. I tiptoed in and brushed my finger across her cheek and was rewarded with a smile too. :)

I finally got all of my bases covered at church for when we go on our trip. Now I just have to make tapes for the cantors and make sure all the music they need will be in the folders.

Today Clay and Claire are coming to spend the morning and to eat "peanut-jelly sammiches" for lunch.

Update*********************************************************
Clay and Claire got here about 10:00. We went across the road to pick a surprise for Mommy.


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Hmmmmmm, What do you think of this?



The good Brigadier General was much more polite than I would have been.




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Word of the day:
The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus - Solemnity
Today the Church celebrates : St. Juliana Falconieri, (1270-1340), St. Romuald
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint John 19:31-37.

Now since it was preparation day, in order that the bodies might not remain on the cross on the sabbath, for the sabbath day of that week was a solemn one, the Jews asked Pilate that their legs be broken and they be taken down. So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and then of the other one who was crucified with Jesus. But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs, but one soldier thrust his lance into his side, and immediately blood and water flowed out. An eyewitness has testified, and his testimony is true; he knows that he is speaking the truth, so that you also may (come to) believe. For this happened so that the scripture passage might be fulfilled: "Not a bone of it will be broken." And again another passage says: "They will look upon him whom they have pierced."


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Thursday, June 18, 2009

Totally swamped today. Finished recording the solo tracks on the CD. We are all getting very excited about this. It sounds wonderful!!!

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Thursday of the Eleventh week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : St. Elizabeth of Schoenau, St. Gregory Barbarigo, Bishop and Confessor (1625-1697), Sts. Marcus and Marcellianus, Martyrs (+286)
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 6:7-15.

In praying, do not babble like the pagans, who think that they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them. Your Father knows what you need before you ask him. This is how you are to pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread; and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors; and do not subject us to the final test, but deliver us from the evil one. If you forgive others their transgressions, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your transgressions.


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Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Today our newest little Tweetlebug comes home from the hospital. I'm headed up to find a pink stork.

Then tonight we finish up the recording of the CD by dubbing in the solo tracks of one of the choir members.

Lots to do in between those times!

Word of the day:
Wednesday of the Eleventh week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : St. Avitus, Abbot,
Ss Teresa and Sancia of Portugal
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 6:1-6.16-18.

(But) take care not to perform righteous deeds in order that people may see them; otherwise, you will have no recompense from your heavenly Father. When you give alms, do not blow a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets to win the praise of others. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right is doing, so that your almsgiving may be secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you. When you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, who love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on street corners so that others may see them. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you pray, go to your inner room, close the door, and pray to your Father in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you. When you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites. They neglect their appearance, so that they may appear to others to be fasting. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you may not appear to be fasting, except to your Father who is hidden. And your Father who sees what is hidden will repay you.


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June 16, 2009

Still basking in the glow of a new grandbaby! She looks a lot like Sam did when he was born, but I can see Kelli there too!

I have a band concert tonight. But before then I have a ton of work to do, so I had better get to it!

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Tuesday of the Eleventh week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : St. John Francis Regis, priest (1597-1640)
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 5:43-48.

You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have? Do not the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet your brothers only, what is unusual about that? Do not the pagans do the same? So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.

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Monday, June 15, 2009

Oh, I just happened to glance at the time. I am up really early this morning. I mis-read the alarm clock. Looks like it's going to be a gorgeous day!!!!

UPDATE:
Okay, now for the reason I was up so early. Sam called to tell us that he had taken Kelli to the hospital. It seems that little Miss Madison Marie did not want to wait until June 28!






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Word of the day:
Monday of the Eleventh week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : St Aurelian

Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 5:38-42.

You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.' But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil. When someone strikes you on (your) right cheek, turn the other one to him as well. If anyone wants to go to law with you over your tunic, hand him your cloak as well. Should anyone press you into service for one mile, go with him for two miles. Give to the one who asks of you, and do not turn your back on one who wants to borrow.

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Sunday, June 14, 2009 - Happy Flag Day

Our little buddies stayed over last night. They love to come and take a bath in our tub and sleep in our bed. It won't be long until they're too big for that. Clay is starting school in the fall. The time has gone by way too fast. They just left to go fishing with Mom and Dad.

Not much planned today. The family is celebrating the 90th birthday of a relative, but I have Mass so I won't be able to go. I think I'll make some candles today. And work on some Christmas presents.

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Word of the day:
The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi) - Solemnity
Today the Church celebrates : SS. Vitus, Modestus and Crescentia, Martyrs
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Mark 14:12-16.22-26.

On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, when they sacrificed the Passover lamb, his disciples said to him, "Where do you want us to go and prepare for you to eat the Passover?" He sent two of his disciples and said to them, "Go into the city and a man will meet you, carrying a jar of water. Follow him. Wherever he enters, say to the master of the house, 'The Teacher says, "Where is my guest room where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?"' Then he will show you a large upper room furnished and ready. Make the preparations for us there." The disciples then went off, entered the city, and found it just as he had told them; and they prepared the Passover. While they were eating, he took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them, and said, "Take it; this is my body." Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, and they all drank from it. He said to them, "This is my blood of the covenant, which will be shed for many. Amen, I say to you, I shall not drink again the fruit of the vine until the day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God." Then, after singing a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

Saturday, June 13, 2009

Well, did everyone survive the switch from analog to digital? We actually lost some channels, but I think it's because our antenna needs to be adjusted.

I opened my first email of the day from a dear friend with a lovely message for the day! Thank you, Teresa.

Harold brought home our list of do's and don'ts for packing for Alaska. That makes me a little less nervous.

There's a show on the radio this morning about overcoming self-doubt. I think self-doubt is the most insidious of obstacles. It paralyzes us, causes us to second guess ourselves, keeps us from being all that we can be. We all deal with those little voices in our heads that tell us we can't do something.

And not all of the voices are in our heads. Often other people are right there harmonizing with those negative thoughts. People who have no interest in doing what you do are more than happy to tell you how you are doing it wrong. It's easy to let those voices rule your life.

Sometimes it isn't even what someone else says, but what he or she doesn't say that speaks volumes. The show I'm listening to interviews several people with various techniques for dealing with those negative voices that try to bind us. One woman talks about "morning pages." This is something I've used in the past when I was trying to finish a book I was writing. I call it free writing or stream of consciousness. What you do is write whatever comes into your head. It may be the same word over and over or it may be a stream of unrelated phrases that pop into your head that seem to have no rhyme or reason. I used to set a timer, this woman says to write 3 pages. The object is to override the inner critic. It really is a powerful tool and I got out of the habit of doing it when I took a second job. I may return to it. Lately I have been experiencing a lot of self doubt. It seems like there are critics at every turn and it can be depressing.

Today I am choosing to ignore those who don't seem to be able to find anything positive to say. That kind of thing is contagious. Below is one of my favorite songs that seems to embody the whole "negative voices" dilemma.



Word of the day:
Saturday, 13 June 2009
Saturday of the Tenth week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : St. Anthony of Padua, Priest and Doctor of the Church (1195-1231)
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 5:33-37.

Again you have heard that it was said to your ancestors, 'Do not take a false oath, but make good to the Lord all that you vow.' But I say to you, do not swear at all; not by heaven, for it is God's throne; nor by the earth, for it is his footstool; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. Do not swear by your head, for you cannot make a single hair white or black. Let your 'Yes' mean 'Yes,' and your 'No' mean 'No.' Anything more is from the evil one.


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Friday, June 12, 2009

Well folks. Today we switch from analog to digital. I don't know about you, but we have digital TV and we lost some stations. The ones we get are nice, but still. It's probably our antenna which we just replaced and which isn't the right kind, but which we will not replace again just on principle.

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Friday of the Tenth week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : St John of St. Fagondez, priest (+ 1479)
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 5:27-32.

You have heard that it was said, 'You shall not commit adultery.' But I say to you, everyone who looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one of your members than to have your whole body thrown into Gehenna. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one of your members than to have your whole body go into Gehenna. It was also said, 'Whoever divorces his wife must give her a bill of divorce.' But I say to you, whoever divorces his wife (unless the marriage is unlawful) causes her to commit adultery, and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.

Thursday, June 11, 2009

If you see Sabina Miller today - wish her a Happy Birthday!

Last night's recording session went better than I could have dreamed. We did the whole thing in just over 2 hours. That is amazing to me because among those gathered were several people who have moved out of the area. To have a gathering of friends this big and be able to focus on the job at hand was nothing short of miraculous. Trink and Carrie came in just after we started. There were lots of prayers, lots of tears, and a whole lot of love in the church last night. Henry Kubin, our recording technician did a fantastic job. He played some of the recording through our sound system so we could hear it. The choir has never heard themselves before so they never really had any idea of how they sound as a group. Henry gave me some of the session on CD and even unprocessed I was impressed at how everything sounded. There is a very good chance that we will even come in under budget. I can see many instances during this whole process where God has clearly held us. We will be selling the CD, but that wasn't our main purpose in doing this. We wanted to pay tribute to John who was truly a saint on earth and who gave so much to the parish he loved. We miss him, but we also know that he joins in our song with the Communion of Saints.



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June 11, 2009
Memorial of Saint Barnabas, Apostle
Gospel
Mt 5:20-26

Jesus said to his disciples:
"I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that
of the scribes and Pharisees,
you will not enter into the Kingdom of heaven.

"You have heard that it was said to your ancestors,
You shall not kill; and whoever kills will be liable to judgment.
But I say to you, whoever is angry with his brother
will be liable to judgment,
and whoever says to his brother,
Raqa, will be answerable to the Sanhedrin,
and whoever says, 'You fool,' will be liable to fiery Gehenna.
Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar,
and there recall that your brother
has anything against you,
leave your gift there at the altar,
go first and be reconciled with your brother,
and then come and offer your gift.
Settle with your opponent quickly while on the way to court with him.
Otherwise your opponent will hand you over to the judge,
and the judge will hand you over to the guard,
and you will be thrown into prison.
Amen, I say to you,
you will not be released until you have paid the last penny."

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Today is the day. We record our CD. I'm nervous because the technician is not very good about keeping in touch - he expects a check tonight, but hasn't given me a total. (update: The technichian did a fantastic job! Very professional and efficient!) We're over budget, and even though I have said I will put in the overage, I am being constantly reminded that this project better break even. I heard it the first 10 times - I get it - enough! What irks me is that I asked several times before going ahead with the project. This was supposed to be something good and it is turning into a headache with all of the nagging. However, choir has been absolutely wonderful - these people are so dedicated and they all loved John. That's what I need to focus on - this tribute to John. I know he is smiling down on our efforts.

Update:
Oh happy happy joy joy! Our recording tech guy just called. The quote he gave us was on the high side, so we may not go as much over budget as I had thought! Great news. Prayers answered! God is good. (but then he always is, isn't he?)

Wednesday of the Tenth week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : St. Getulius & Comp., St Ithamar
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 5:17-19.

Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. Amen, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or the smallest part of a letter will pass from the law, until all things have taken place. Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do so will be called least in the kingdom of heaven. But whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

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Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Yesterday was the monthly meeting of the Thimbleberries Quilt Club. I'm always inspired when I go to those meetings. During the "Show and Tell" time, one lady showed a quilt that had been left unfinished when her mother-in-law died. It was absolutely stunning. She had found the blocks after her mother-in-law died. They were hand-pieced. She joined them and then hand quilted the entire quilt.

I haven't had the nerve to show any of my stuff yet. I tend to work with the less expensive Walmart fabric because I am still trying to get better at piecing. I used to think there wasn't any real difference except the price. You definitely do get what you pay for. When I started making my Thimbleberries blocks I could tell just by the feel that the fabrics were much finer. I can't afford the good stuff in a lot of quantity so as I use up my old stash, I will slowly replace the fabrics with the good stuff.

I decided to take a "fishing" day yesterday. Harold often takes a day to fish - which is fine. My "fishing" equipment is all in my craft room so that's my "lake."
I worked on some stocking stuffers for my adult girls yesterday. I can't post pics because one of them reads this. (Hi Kelli) Now I just have to keep quiet and not show them until Christmas.

I will miss next months meeting because we'll be in Alaska. But before that we will welcome Sam and Kelli's new daughter. Less than 3 weeks!!!

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Tuesday of the Tenth week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : St. Ephrem of Syria, Deacon (c.306-373),
Sts. Primus and Felicianus, martyrs (3rd century)
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 5:13-16.

You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its taste, with what can it be seasoned? It is no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.

Monday, June 8, 2009 - Happy Birthday Super Sam!

Happy, Happy 27th Birthday Super Sam!!!

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Word of the day:
Monday of the Tenth week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : St. Medard, Bishop (c.457_545)
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 5:1-12.

When he saw the crowds, he went up the mountain, and after he had sat down, his disciples came to him. He began to teach them, saying: Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land. Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you (falsely) because of me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven. Thus they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

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Sunday, June 7, 2009

Yesterday Sarah and Ben were married. I think my favorite part of the reception - aside from the Candy Bar where every kind of yummy concoction was available - was when the Sarah danced with her dad. About halfway through the dance, the DJ called all fathers and daughters to come out onto the floor. Of all the times for me to forget to bring my camera. I hope my sister-in-law, Judy got a good picture of Harold surrounded by his girls in a kind of group hug out on the dance floor.

Next Ben and his mom were called out onto the dance floor. Halfway through all of the mothers and sons joined them. The last time Sam and I danced together was at his wedding almost 3 years ago. Tomorrow he turns 27 and by the end of the month he and Kelli will go from being newlyweds, to being Mommy and Daddy. Where, oh where, does the time go?

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Word of the day:
The Most Holy Trinity - Solemnity
The Most Holy Trinity, solemnity
Today the Church celebrates : Blessed Emmanuel Ruiz and Companions,
St. Robert of Newminster (12th century)
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 28:16-20.

The eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had ordered them. When they saw him, they worshiped, but they doubted. Then Jesus approached and said to them, "All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age."

Thoughts from the cornfield:
As I was listening to last night's homily a quote from Marcus Aurelius went through my head. I can't find the exact words but it was something like "speak not at all about what a good man should be, but be such." The message was about peace and I'm not sure exactly how it tied in with the readings, but since Jesus was about peace, it was probably on target. My thinking was this, "talk not about what peace should be, but live it." And live it consistently - in action and words. Our everyday words and actions show much more about who we are than what we do in a formal setting where we know people are watching us. If I say I am a person of peace, then I should strive very hard to be consistent - in word and deed. Anger and name calling are not the children of peace. I think this is where we all fall short. Peace and love are a condition of the heart. "From the fullness of the heart the mouth speaks. I tell you, on the day of judgment people will render an account for every careless word they speak. By your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned." Matt:12 34-37. Maybe we need to quit labeling people and using a broad brush to paint them. Maybe we should stop judging the condition of other people's hearts and take a look at our own. But what do I know, I'm just sittin' here in my cornfield looking at all the soil to be tilled in my own heart.


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Saturday, June 6, 2009

Today our great-niece Sarah and her fiance Ben are getting married. I am so glad that they have a beautiful day to celebrate it!

Yesterday's ordination Mass was wonderful. We have three new priests this year.

Father José Parra, Archbishop Robert Carlson, Father David Jenuwine, Father Thai Hung Nguyen

I had mixed feelings yesterday. Joy for our three new priests and sadness that Archbishop Carlson will be leaving us. But he leaves huge legacies of his time with us! God bless Archbishop Carlson as he leaves us to head the archdiocese of St. Louis.

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Word of the day:
Saturday of the Ninth week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : St. Norbert
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Mark 12:38-44.

In the course of his teaching he said, "Beware of the scribes, who like to go around in long robes and accept greetings in the marketplaces, seats of honor in synagogues, and places of honor at banquets. They devour the houses of widows and, as a pretext, recite lengthy prayers. They will receive a very severe condemnation." He sat down opposite the treasury and observed how the crowd put money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. A poor widow also came and put in two small coins worth a few cents. Calling his disciples to himself, he said to them, "Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the other contributors to the treasury. For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had, her whole livelihood."


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Friday, June 5, 2009

It's going to be a long day. Morning mass with the kids, deliver an order, then off to St. Stephen's for the ordination of three new priests for the Diocese of Sagina.

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Word of the day:
Friday of the Ninth week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : St. Boniface, Bishop and Martyr (+754)
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Mark 12:35-37.

As Jesus was teaching in the temple area he said, "How do the scribes claim that the Messiah is the son of David? David himself, inspired by the holy Spirit, said: 'The Lord said to my lord, "Sit at my right hand until I place your enemies under your feet."' David himself calls him 'lord'; so how is he his son?" (The) great crowd heard this with delight.

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Thursday, June 4, 2009

It just dawned on me that we have entered the month in which our 3rd grandbaby will be born. Clayton and Claire have nicknamed her "Beeps" which is what we used to call Melisa (Clay and Claire's mom) when she was little.

Yesterday I finished the baby quilt I am making for Olivia and Ryan's new baby, Haylee.

Sam and Ryan have been friends since childhood. It's really hard to believe how many years have gone by since I watch these two play T-ball.

As I write this I am listening to President Obama speak at Cairo University. I'm listening because I want to hear what he says. Apparently a couple of remarks he made when he spoke in Saudi Arabia were scrubbed from the official website. That makes me - hmmmm - what's the word? Suspicious? Yeah, that pretty much covers it.

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Word of the day:
Thursday of the Ninth week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : St. Francis Caracciolo, St Kevin
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Mark 12:28-34.

One of the scribes, when he came forward and heard them disputing and saw how well he had answered them, asked him, "Which is the first of all the commandments?" Jesus replied, "The first is this: 'Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is Lord alone! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these." The scribe said to him, "Well said, teacher. You are right in saying, 'He is One and there is no other than he.' And 'to love him with all your heart, with all your understanding, with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself' is worth more than all burnt offerings and sacrifices." And when Jesus saw that (he) answered with understanding, he said to him, "You are not far from the kingdom of God." And no one dared to ask him any more questions.


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Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Ah, God is good! I have mentioned on here a few times, that our choir is recording a CD in tribute to our fallen choir member, John Fetzner. When I set everything up, I made the huge mistake of making some assumptions about what would be included in our recording fee. In my naivete, I thought the fees quoted included everything we would need. I recently found out that the fees quoted included only the recording and not the physical product. The person doing the recording informed me that it would cost another 5 dollars per CD for the duplication and jewel case. $2500!! That would not include the insert and labeling which would be another fee. I decided that I would recruit Anna to help me with the labeling and the insert, but even that was another $500 or so. Did I mention that any monies over budget would have to be put in my me because our church is feeling economic pinch? Can you imagine how awful I felt? My savings would barely cover it. I couldn't back out - the choir has put too much time in this as it is. One man has driven 100 miles each way for three weeks. I would just have to suck it up and live with the consequences of not doing my research as well as I should have.

Then, I did what I should have done in the first place. I spent some time in prayer. I sent off an email to a friend whose band has recorded CDs. He sent me to a website where I found that we could do it all; duplication, cases, inserts, labels - the whole deal for $650 dollars including shipping. Thanks Jim! Thank you God!

Word of the day:
Wednesday of the Ninth week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : St. Charles Lwanga
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Mark 12:18-27.

Some Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to him and put this question to him, saying, "Teacher, Moses wrote for us, 'If someone's brother dies, leaving a wife but no child, his brother must take the wife and raise up descendants for his brother.' Now there were seven brothers. The first married a woman and died, leaving no descendants. So the second married her and died, leaving no descendants, and the third likewise. And the seven left no descendants. Last of all the woman also died. At the resurrection (when they arise) whose wife will she be? For all seven had been married to her." Jesus said to them, "Are you not misled because you do not know the scriptures or the power of God? When they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but they are like the angels in heaven. As for the dead being raised, have you not read in the Book of Moses, in the passage about the bush, how God told him, 'I am the God of Abraham, (the) God of Isaac, and (the) God of Jacob'? He is not God of the dead but of the living. You are greatly misled."


Thoughts from the cornfield:



Would that we all had such courage in admitting our mistakes. When I was in training at a local crisis pregnancy center, we saw a video narrated by this doctor in which we watched the baby on the ultrasound as an abortion was taking place. Upon viewing the video, we learned that the doctor, the nurse, and ultrasound technician refused to perform another abortion. Dr. Nathanson done much for the prolife cause since his conversion.

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

Word of the day:
Tuesday of the Ninth week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : Sts. Peter & Marcellinus
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Mark 12:13-17.

They sent some Pharisees and Herodians to him to ensnare him in his speech. They came and said to him, "Teacher, we know that you are a truthful man and that you are not concerned with anyone's opinion. You do not regard a person's status but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it lawful to pay the census tax to Caesar or not? Should we pay or should we not pay?" Knowing their hypocrisy he said to them, "Why are you testing me? Bring me a denarius to look at." They brought one to him and he said to them, "Whose image and inscription is this?" They replied to him, "Caesar's." So Jesus said to them, "Repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.' They were utterly amazed at him.

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Monday, June 1, 2009

Today is Monday, so that means I make soap. If the oils come today, it will be Berry Pickin'. That one was a surprise best seller this spring. You never know what people will want and it's hard to limit what we take because I love them all. I am getting ready to work on the fall and Christmas scent candles. I made a batch of Apple Jack 'n Peel last night and then remembered that the candles are now stored separately from the rest of the products because they are so heavy. Soooooo, I guess we are all set for that fragrance.

I need to finish the inventory from last week and make the adjustments on the website. The girls and I have started the Christmas stockings for next fall. We decided to put another ad in Country Sampler this year. It is smaller and less expensive. I'm not sure how much traffic last year's ad generated, but we always like to try things at least 2 years before making a decision. The ad pretty much wiped out our operating fund, but hopefully we will make some sales during the summer to cover the rest of next fall's expenses. Thanks to a fortuitous find last year, we are all set on yarn for the stockings.

The choir and I will be rehearsing again this week and then next week we begin recording. I'm nervous about this venture, but also excited. We've never done anything like this and in this economic climate, the financial outlay is a little intimidating. But I'm confident that this effort in John's memory will be blessed and be a success.

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Word of the day:
Monday of the Ninth week in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates : St. Justin
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Mark 12:1-12.

He began to speak to them in parables. "A man planted a vineyard, put a hedge around it, dug a wine press, and built a tower. Then he leased it to tenant farmers and left on a journey. At the proper time he sent a servant to the tenants to obtain from them some of the produce of the vineyard. But they seized him, beat him, and sent him away empty-handed. Again he sent them another servant. And that one they beat over the head and treated shamefully. He sent yet another whom they killed. So, too, many others; some they beat, others they killed. He had one other to send, a beloved son. He sent him to them last of all, thinking, 'They will respect my son.' But those tenants said to one another, 'This is the heir. Come, let us kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.' So they seized him and killed him, and threw him out of the vineyard. What (then) will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come, put the tenants to death, and give the vineyard to others. Have you not read this scripture passage: 'The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; by the Lord has this been done, and it is wonderful in our eyes'?" They were seeking to arrest him, but they feared the crowd, for they realized that he had addressed the parable to them. So they left him and went away.

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