Ok, folks, I'm gettin' back on track to regularly scheduled beauty fests. My routine will be to put a call out for beauty on Fridays mornings, with the resulting post on Sunday evening. That should give plenty of time for you to reflect, snap pictures, write a limerick, etc.
This week's fest is about faith. As we near the end of the Easter octave, let us reflect on this past week's blessings, and perhaps something beautiful you experienced, bathed in Easter joy. Perhaps it was a beautiful Easter liturgy, or seeing your littles all dressed in their best. It could also be a fruitful Lenten practice---just something that brought beauty to your life.
Let's do this thing!
Oh, and for preparation's sake, next week's theme will be a Mama-loving beauty fest for Mother's Day. If you already have something to share for that, feel free to send it along at the same time.
Do you love your mama?
Show the love!
Friday, April 29, 2011
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Procrastination Breeds Success
I have been a tardy husband. I have promised Danielle for months that I would write a guest post for her outstanding blog, and for one reason or another (e.g. writing a dissertation, hanging out with the kids, manual labor, household chores), I have consistently put it off. The procrastination ends now.
The thing I was going to write about in January was how happy I was to be back in Israel, but this time with my family. Last summer here was amazing, but being separated from Danielle, Jacob, and Cecilia was one of the saddest experiences of my life. After being here together for well over three months, this topic is nearly obsolete. It has been great to be here with them and to share with them so many of my experiences from last summer.
Traveling is usually a good occasion for getting some perspective on life, for broadening one’s view of the world, for seeing things in a new way (http://gpodder.net/episode/1714908). This trip has been no exception. You see, Israel is different than Indiana in many ways (the people, the food, the landscape, the conflict, the history, the holiness, the almost complete lack of Mitch Daniels). Being here has made all of us appreciate even more our family, friends, parish, places of school and work, having a car, the existence of bacon, and cheaper groceries (Are these prices really necessary, Israel?).
Visiting holy and historical sites with the family has been delightful, On a few occasions, I have been able to go to the Western Wall with Jacob to pray. Last summer, I admit I was jealous to see various Jewish men going up to the Wall with their sons to pray. Now I can share that with Jacob, and I don’t think he’ll ever forget it. Going to many places from the Gospel with him and watching him make the connections in his own mind has been beautiful for me as a father to watch.
Amidst the traveling about and holy sites, most of my days are spent as they normally are back home, sitting quietly in a library, reading and writing. This probably sounds boring to most people, but it is how I flourish. I have an unquenchable, if not unhealthy, desire to learn as much as I can about everything, from my relatively open tendency to study the Bible and theology to my lesser known loves of philosophy, contemporary politics, semiotics, sociology, satire, alliteration, film (both primary and secondary sources), professional comedians (thanks Marc Maron!), poetry, and science. Like Danielle, I am an admitted beauty addict and refuse to get help.
It can be traumatic to uproot one’s family and go somewhere else, whether temporarily or permanently. Those who are forced to relocate because of a job, military obligations, family reasons, or political strife know this too well. Since Cecilia doesn’t know any better, the trip has been hardest on Jacob, who misses his family, friends, and school. Unlike me, he is what you might call “social” and enjoys spending time with friends. He has flourished in his own ways here (learning a ridiculous amount of material and skills-think Napoleon Dynamite) but is eager to get home and back to his routine of structured mayhem.
It has been lovely to watch my bride flourish here. While she initially underwent something like what Jacob did, plus a side dish of sleep deprivation, she nevertheless thrives on solitude and quiet like few people I have ever known. What is great about Tantur is that is ideal for anyone. If you want to see people, they’re here, especially at meals. If you don’t, you can stay in your room or go to the library, which is almost guaranteed to be empty, with the exception of a certain strange looking “never nude” who is writing a dissertation on the Psalms. Since Danielle has a great appreciation both for being with people (she is known by many as “The Awkward Diffuser” and has an extraordinary gift of bringing people together) and for being alone, the environment has been perfect for her. Add to this our enormous apartment here, which dwarfs the one back home, and you get a much happier Mama.
Danielle is a voracious reader, and I have long envied the speed with which she can read almost any kind of book. Needless to say, she has devoured several giant books while we’ve been here, and I can confidently say that her desire for learning has been set ablaze. If I could read as fast as she could, I would have finished graduate school long ago and already have tenure. It has also been delightful to observe her random but effective homeschooling of Jacob. The kid is learning so much (reading, math, State capitals, how to use an obnoxious number of parentheses), mostly because of Danielle’s tireless dedication, inventiveness, and shared curiosity.
We are eager to go home soon, but I know that Danielle and I will mourn our leaving. It has been a fruitful time for us as a family and especially for us to grow closer as a couple. Our marital spats are up there with the best of them (no, not quite “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” -probably closer to the other well known Elizabeth Taylor film “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” but without the repressed sexuality and alcoholism), but the extra time we have together here has made us fall ever deeper in love. We have been best friends for just over 10 years, and our time together here has reminded both of us why this is the case. I will never be able to thank her enough for her willingness to go on this adventure with me.
I will try not to be as much of a stranger to the blog. Given the recent posthumous release of his final novel on Tax Day, I should probably offer some thoughts on David Foster Wallace in the coming weeks. We’ll see…
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Joy and Divine Reality
So, it's a miracle that anyone even comes back to this ole blog of mine, as I post in such fits and bursts. A huge post a day for a few days, and then nothing. :) I'm thinking on our return home, after settling back into a schedule, I may be a bit more consistent....but then, maybe not..
I have realized that, although I would LOVE to capture every single moment in word or picture form, it's just not realistic. When I find a free evening, nestled in the worn armchair with the sliding door open and the last call to prayer resounding in Bethlehem, I will share what I can and trust its job of portrayal is good enough....
In the interest of pure expression and maximum sharing, I'm going to lend this post to a very, very stream-of-conscience, run-on cheese-fest in all its glory, so bear with me, k?
~~~~
A woman of incredible intelligence, compassion, service, prayer and joy, she will be greatly missed. There was delectable chicken and lamb chops, salads, potatoes, wine, desserts, speeches and the like. We Haleys led a rousing chorus of Swing Low Sweet Chariot/I Wanna Sing/Oh When the Saints. With people joining in, singing with abandon and giving thanks for dear Sr., it was a sight to behold.
What a blessing.
~~~~~~
Georgia, dear sweet Georgia, whom we serendipitously met at the Church of the Annunciation while in Nazareth with the Haleys. It was pouring rain, and after walking to the church, we wanted to get out of the rain and pray a bit, wishing we could attend Mass. Upon entering, we noticed the main part of the church was roped off for a Spanish Mass just beginning. We walked up to the two sweet ladies working, and asked if we could join. Ceci took an immediate liking to her, and Georgia watched the kids for the entire liturgy, sending them over with flowers and kisses.
Yeah, she's just that awesome.
After the Mass, we visited with Georgia and learned that she belongs to a Catholic lay community called Shalom, and it's based out of Brazil. She's volunteering in Nazareth for about 6 months. Right away, we could sense her holiness, her kind heart and a true kindred spirit. So, we did what we do and invited her to come visit.
As God would have it, she was able to come stay with us from Wednesday to the wee hours of Sunday. Though she was gone much of the time at Triduum services, what time we had with her was so blessed. Hilarious, vibrant, kind and sweet, she fit perfectly in with our zany family, right down to the fact that she bought an adorable chick for the kiddos.
Although he has already met an early demise, due to unknown reasons and despite the most tender care, we are thankful for the time we had with Mr. Yellow.
A hidden gem, an Eden, a tranquil center of peace and beauty.
Admittedly, I have a weakness for these moments, as evidenced by the whole gist of this blog. Kevin can attest, what happened on Saturday was nothing short of heavenly feasting.
We began outside, under a canopy of palm trees and verdant landscape, surrounding the blazing Easter fire. Used to light the Paschal Candle, it entranced us with it's consuming power
Kevin and I made the jaunt out with the lovely Carol, one of the Easter seminar participants hailing from Australia, and Ben who, though not Catholic, braved his first Easter Vigil. (Can I get a woot woot for Ben---many Catholics have never been to this 3-hour long uber liturgy)!
With the liturgy in French, I was able to revel in the incredible symbolism and imagery of the Mass, the sensuality, the veritable offering of a lover to her Beloved.
We processed through the dark courtyard outside the 800+ year old church, following the solemn procession of nuns, priest and brothers. They all look like brides of Christ, robed in white. The sisters' ankle-grazing veils and the utter ecstatic love on their faces moved me to tears. As one of the oldest sisters walked passed, our eyes met, her hand grasped mine and smiled as if to say, "Yes, my dear, this is true, this is beautiful, and this is only the beginning of what Jesus offers you."
To try and begin to describe what happened in those three hours, in an ancient church, voices imbued with heavenly joy, Eucharist, the intimacy of strangers, the pierced growing pains....would be impossible.
I can only say, get ye there if at all possible, drink in, soak in, revel in, bask in, bathe in the beauty because it's there, and it's a floodin' about the place.
Just like our Easter celebration at Tantur:
Oh, and by the way, I totally want to hang with this guy on his front porch. Just sayin'.
Christ is risen, He is risen indeed!
I have realized that, although I would LOVE to capture every single moment in word or picture form, it's just not realistic. When I find a free evening, nestled in the worn armchair with the sliding door open and the last call to prayer resounding in Bethlehem, I will share what I can and trust its job of portrayal is good enough....
This past week has been saturated with beauty, music, prayer, community, Jesus, food, wine, chicks, and all manner of goodness mixed with sadness and goodbyes too. Just when I think, "Okay, there can't seriously be another incredible evening/meal/homily/conversation/fill-in-the-blank," then there's a huge swoosh of awesomeness just waiting to burst on the scene.
In the interest of pure expression and maximum sharing, I'm going to lend this post to a very, very stream-of-conscience, run-on cheese-fest in all its glory, so bear with me, k?
~~~~
Last night, we bid adieu to dear Sr. Bridget. She is leaving her post as vice rector of Tantur after five years.
What a blessing.
~~~~~~
Georgia, dear sweet Georgia, whom we serendipitously met at the Church of the Annunciation while in Nazareth with the Haleys. It was pouring rain, and after walking to the church, we wanted to get out of the rain and pray a bit, wishing we could attend Mass. Upon entering, we noticed the main part of the church was roped off for a Spanish Mass just beginning. We walked up to the two sweet ladies working, and asked if we could join. Ceci took an immediate liking to her, and Georgia watched the kids for the entire liturgy, sending them over with flowers and kisses.
Yeah, she's just that awesome.
After the Mass, we visited with Georgia and learned that she belongs to a Catholic lay community called Shalom, and it's based out of Brazil. She's volunteering in Nazareth for about 6 months. Right away, we could sense her holiness, her kind heart and a true kindred spirit. So, we did what we do and invited her to come visit.
As God would have it, she was able to come stay with us from Wednesday to the wee hours of Sunday. Though she was gone much of the time at Triduum services, what time we had with her was so blessed. Hilarious, vibrant, kind and sweet, she fit perfectly in with our zany family, right down to the fact that she bought an adorable chick for the kiddos.
Enter Mr. Yellow
We love you, Georgia! We are thankful for the gift of your presence, your presents, for babysitting so we could go to the Easter vigil, and for weathering Ceci's middle-of-the-night cry fest. BESOS!!
~~~~~
Abu Gosh.
I must say, I think that we knew a bit of heaven on Saturday night. The Benedictines just know how to do an Easter vigil.
We began outside, under a canopy of palm trees and verdant landscape, surrounding the blazing Easter fire. Used to light the Paschal Candle, it entranced us with it's consuming power
Kevin and I made the jaunt out with the lovely Carol, one of the Easter seminar participants hailing from Australia, and Ben who, though not Catholic, braved his first Easter Vigil. (Can I get a woot woot for Ben---many Catholics have never been to this 3-hour long uber liturgy)!
With the liturgy in French, I was able to revel in the incredible symbolism and imagery of the Mass, the sensuality, the veritable offering of a lover to her Beloved.
We processed through the dark courtyard outside the 800+ year old church, following the solemn procession of nuns, priest and brothers. They all look like brides of Christ, robed in white. The sisters' ankle-grazing veils and the utter ecstatic love on their faces moved me to tears. As one of the oldest sisters walked passed, our eyes met, her hand grasped mine and smiled as if to say, "Yes, my dear, this is true, this is beautiful, and this is only the beginning of what Jesus offers you."
To try and begin to describe what happened in those three hours, in an ancient church, voices imbued with heavenly joy, Eucharist, the intimacy of strangers, the pierced growing pains....would be impossible.
I can only say, get ye there if at all possible, drink in, soak in, revel in, bask in, bathe in the beauty because it's there, and it's a floodin' about the place.
Just like our Easter celebration at Tantur:
 |
| What's not to smile about, when you busted out a big ole lamb for your peeps? |
Oh, and by the way, I totally want to hang with this guy on his front porch. Just sayin'.
Christ is risen, He is risen indeed!
Monday, April 18, 2011
Haley Trip: Old City and Haifa
Well, if yesterday says anything about the amazing moments we are to experience this Holy Week, I figured I'd better do a catch-up post about the Haley trip. I trust that, although no writing can truly capture the beauty of living an experience first-hand, it will just have to do.
First, I am just so thankful that we had a whole week together in the Holy Land. Though the first part of the week (and our Galilee trip) was rainy, we still went to everything and the kids traveled so well. I really am in awe of their big adventurer spirits and hope to keep feeding the fire of curiosity.
Anyhoo, the first full day (Monday), we had a slow morning and then went into the Old City to hit many of the big Christian sites like the Cenacle, the Church of the Dormition, etc. These visits marked the beginning of a trip-long blessing of having these sacred spaces to ourselves, if only for a moment. Considering tourist season is really in full-swing, that says a lot about divine blessings.
Many of the churches here, as anywhere, have such incredible live space in which to sing, and Kev and I took the chance to sing Rosa Mystica in the Church of the Dormition. With just our family and a few people who came in later, we sang. Melodious and tender, this song is so moving, and quite dear to us. We sang it in Folk Choir, where we met and fell in love. Afterward, the handful of French tourists who had walked into our impromptu concert complimented us warmly, and off we went.
Before stopping for a late lunch, we visited the Western/Wailing Wall. The women and men have separate sections, with the men's side being about 3-4 times larger than the women's side. As a result, our side ends up being 4-5 rows thick of pressing, determined women hoping to make their way to touch the wall.
Although it was my fourth or fifth time visiting, it was the first I was able to lean against the wall itself, joining my prayer with the Jewish and Christian women surrounding me. Women praying in Hebrew, English, French, Amharic, singing, weeping, beating their chests and schuckling (moving back and forth as they pray the Torah). It was intense and beautiful.
Of course, Jacob wanted to get pictures of Papa and him with their kippahs (yarmulkes) on.
And Ceci showed off her "falling asleep when I darn well need to anywhere, anytime" skill:
Now that we're acclimated to the city, it was such a treat to be able to show our family around like locals (or as much as one can be a local in 3 months' time).
Kathleen, Mama and Papa had their first schwarma --Papa's with just meat, of course. Then we took them to the adoration chapel that is just a piece of heaven on earth. They braved Damascus gate, and piled onto the bus tired and ready for naps. And let me just say, seeing broad-backed fair Irish Papa squeezing through the narrow aisle in the bus of slight Arab men was certainly a sight to see.
First, I am just so thankful that we had a whole week together in the Holy Land. Though the first part of the week (and our Galilee trip) was rainy, we still went to everything and the kids traveled so well. I really am in awe of their big adventurer spirits and hope to keep feeding the fire of curiosity.
Anyhoo, the first full day (Monday), we had a slow morning and then went into the Old City to hit many of the big Christian sites like the Cenacle, the Church of the Dormition, etc. These visits marked the beginning of a trip-long blessing of having these sacred spaces to ourselves, if only for a moment. Considering tourist season is really in full-swing, that says a lot about divine blessings.
Many of the churches here, as anywhere, have such incredible live space in which to sing, and Kev and I took the chance to sing Rosa Mystica in the Church of the Dormition. With just our family and a few people who came in later, we sang. Melodious and tender, this song is so moving, and quite dear to us. We sang it in Folk Choir, where we met and fell in love. Afterward, the handful of French tourists who had walked into our impromptu concert complimented us warmly, and off we went.
Before stopping for a late lunch, we visited the Western/Wailing Wall. The women and men have separate sections, with the men's side being about 3-4 times larger than the women's side. As a result, our side ends up being 4-5 rows thick of pressing, determined women hoping to make their way to touch the wall.
Although it was my fourth or fifth time visiting, it was the first I was able to lean against the wall itself, joining my prayer with the Jewish and Christian women surrounding me. Women praying in Hebrew, English, French, Amharic, singing, weeping, beating their chests and schuckling (moving back and forth as they pray the Torah). It was intense and beautiful.
Of course, Jacob wanted to get pictures of Papa and him with their kippahs (yarmulkes) on.
And Ceci showed off her "falling asleep when I darn well need to anywhere, anytime" skill:
Sibling love
Courtesy of Jacob--poor Papa wasn't feeling too well. :(
Now that we're acclimated to the city, it was such a treat to be able to show our family around like locals (or as much as one can be a local in 3 months' time).
Kathleen, Mama and Papa had their first schwarma --Papa's with just meat, of course. Then we took them to the adoration chapel that is just a piece of heaven on earth. They braved Damascus gate, and piled onto the bus tired and ready for naps. And let me just say, seeing broad-backed fair Irish Papa squeezing through the narrow aisle in the bus of slight Arab men was certainly a sight to see.
Considering jet lag, culture shock, and the sheer sensory immersion/stimulation/overload that is the city, I was quite impressed with how they handled it all, and they even went to the Hebrew-speaking parish after a quick nap!
Tuesday brought rain and a full car for our trip to Haifa, Nazareth and the Galilee. Not to let it dampen our spirits, we set off to visit Stella Maris, the Carmelite monastery in Haifa on Mt. Carmel. According to an online source and a guide book, the church would be open until 1:30.
After a bit of a construction delay, a beautiful albeit rainy drive up the Mediterranen coast and a short search through the hidden roads of Haifa, we made it by 12:30, just in time to have an hour in the church.
Or did we?
My stomach dropped when I passed the church on the way to the bathroom. Hoping nobody else saw the sign saying it closed at 12:30, I furously ticked through the possibilities. We could have a long lunch and wait the 2.5 hours until it re-opened, or we could beg.
As providence would have it, we happened upon the gift shop just at closing time. There was a baby monk there who, upon my request for a concession to the closure, he claimed he was unimportant and pointed to a quiet Arabic woman saying, "She's my boss." :)
We politely asked if there was any possibility at all to peek into the church, that Kathleen was entering the Carmelites in a month, and even if just she could go in, it would be a great gift.
"So sorry, it's closed," she said gently.
Well, Papa Bear came out at, what at the time was, shall we say....on the intense side...ended up being the conduit of gift. Olivia (as we later learned her name) said she would try to phone the abbot. A short call later, and she had permission.
A family visit to the Stella Maris Church on Mt. Carmel.
A family visit in the quiet, peaceful church to ourselves, away from bustling crowds and shutterbugs, with a peaceful moment to bless and pray for Kathleen and this next step in her journey.
Elijah's Cave
Our angel, Olivia
To be continued.....
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Procession
I sit here exhausted, a bit dehydrated but oh so in awe.
Today's Palm Sunday procession, from Bethphage to the Old City was like nothing I have ever experienced.
Perhaps World Youth Day would be the closest (yet oh so different) comparison.
Imagine tens of thousands of people, armed with palms and olive branches, song and prayer, joy and fraternity.
All in honor of one man.
Who lived thousands of years ago.
Life-changing.
It was as if (albeit nuanced with modern touches of microphones and popsicle stands), we were experiencing the very moment of 2 thousand years ago. The frenetic energy, the excitement, the hope, the curiousity, the faith.
Christ was very much present with us today, in the strangers putting sunscreen on Ceci, in Sally holding Jacob's hand and leading him along, in Dennis carrying children and backpacks, in the spontaneous song rich with harmonies, in the care and conern of my fellow Tantur women, the new and immediate friendship between Isaac and Jacob, and the leadership of our dear Sr. Bridget.
What a profound gift this is for us, for our children and for our falling-in-love with Christ.
Although fatigue calls me to bed, I wanted to get a quick note out, so as not to lose the freshness of the moment.
Oodles of pictures and video to follow.
And joy.
Oh, the joy.
Today's Palm Sunday procession, from Bethphage to the Old City was like nothing I have ever experienced.
Perhaps World Youth Day would be the closest (yet oh so different) comparison.
Imagine tens of thousands of people, armed with palms and olive branches, song and prayer, joy and fraternity.
All in honor of one man.
Who lived thousands of years ago.
Life-changing.
It was as if (albeit nuanced with modern touches of microphones and popsicle stands), we were experiencing the very moment of 2 thousand years ago. The frenetic energy, the excitement, the hope, the curiousity, the faith.
Christ was very much present with us today, in the strangers putting sunscreen on Ceci, in Sally holding Jacob's hand and leading him along, in Dennis carrying children and backpacks, in the spontaneous song rich with harmonies, in the care and conern of my fellow Tantur women, the new and immediate friendship between Isaac and Jacob, and the leadership of our dear Sr. Bridget.
What a profound gift this is for us, for our children and for our falling-in-love with Christ.
Although fatigue calls me to bed, I wanted to get a quick note out, so as not to lose the freshness of the moment.
Oodles of pictures and video to follow.
And joy.
Oh, the joy.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Clarice
Today marks the 25th birthday of my sister, Claire Rachelle Humphrey!
Claire is a force to be reckoned with: determined, strong and fiercely loyal. She is someone you want on your team, in your tribe, as your friend and sister.
As the 4th sister, you certainly made your presence known from an early age. One of my favorite traits of yours was how, when mom gave you food with a spoon, you'd immediately make the spoon stick straight in the air, lips puckered under it's curve like there was no tomorrow. That, along with your alfalfa shock of hair on end, round rosy cheeks and piercing blue eyes made a pretty darn tootin' sight to see.
Claire, I am in awe of your perseverence through the many challenges you have faced. You went from just eking by high school graduation to pulling straight As in college, serving as student leader for 3 (?) years, getting accepted to and serving in Teach for America. If that example is not a testimony to your perseverence, I don't know what is.
When, 4 years ago, we faced pain that trumped all the pain that came before it, you rallied. You and your close network of friends supported, weathered, cried and came through. This speaks volumes of the friendships with which you are blessed, and in turn the way you give of yourself in relationships. I think we all know that, when the rubber meets the road and we need you, no matter where or when, you are so there.
Claire, I love how dynamic and confident you are. Between student government leadership, internships, teaching and various other outlets, you flourish. Organizing, mobilizing, inspiring and generally gettin' 'er done is your thing. That's why you and Rosie would kick it real sassy-like.
From Lifetime Original Movies to lime green walls, blaring country music to Mikado sushi, lovin' on your littles to sleeping in like a champ, laughing with the best of 'em and showing generosity whenever you can---Claire, you are a life-lover.
I feel honored to call you my sister, and my friend. My children are blessed to have you for an Auntie. The world is vivacious and bright and slightly louder because you are here.
You know I love you, Chocolate Thunder.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
First Beauty Fest
A hearty thank you to those who so generously shared the beauty. I LOVE LOVE LOVE reading, savoring and sharing all the different perspectives and experiences.
Now that y'all know the call for beauty is coming on Sundays, keep your eyes and ears peeled, your hearts open and your cameras ready to capture and share!
Without further adieu...
Delights from Donna
Angela was trying to get some great shots for the Village photo contest. I decided to wash and hang out all of Dominics Bumgenius and Angela decided it was photo worthy.
I had Mary and Clara help me and they were the best little helpers in the world. My intention was that they would be in the picture but I think we all forgot and just had a wonderful time together. I got to see the beauty the Angela and Simone see in their girls every day. It felt like a connective moment between the three of us. I know what it feels like to see it in my on son but I think it is something special to see it in others' children. I adore all of your children and look forward to more little moments with all of them!
Angela's Artistry
My beauty is Cecilia. She is the best baby I have ever met. She is cute. She is beautiful. She says a lot of words. She's the best little sister. It's going to be so fun when she's 5.
Mommy, I also want to share this beauty: Apple Appetite and the Amazing Day.
LOVE that kid!
Beth's Bouncing BoyThis morning Jack was fussing and Rob was trying to soothe him, and finally he handed him to me and Jack immediately smiled and went "Ha, hah!", as if to say "Yes, it was MOMMY I wanted!" Very flattering to me, if not poor Rob -- that's my bit of beauty!
Nicole's Newness
Nicole wanted to share, 'just how important friendship is and how it truly strengthens the soul. It feels like sunshine running through your veins!"
had called off work for about a week due to an unexplainable vasculitis on my ankle. It was a very emotionally and physically draining week in which I was constantly going to the doctor to get rechecked, keeping my ankle up, and attempting to protect and shield it from very energetic children and fluffy pets.
I went back to work to my night shift. For those of you who haven't worked it, you have no clue how difficult this particular shift is. In a word: CRAZY. LOL. All laughing aside, it does have its positives as well. I grabbed my Mt Dew, and off I went..feeling particularly sorry for myself.
I have one particular patient who demands attention constantly throughout the night...open the window, shut the window, turn up the heat, take off my blanket, thirsty, and so on and so forth. In all honesty, as I went over my care notes, I really was dreading the long night that I knew lay ahead of me.
Like clockwork, as soon as my co-worker left, "Princess" rang. I sighed as I thought..let the games begin! I opened her bedroom door..my ears were unappreciative of the usual loud music that she found so necessary to keep on throughout the night. Then, I saw her..so tiny amidst the large fluffy white bed. Her eyes wandered just like a child's searching for comfort.
Then she saw me..a look appeared on her face..was that a smile??
As I bent to speak to her, she smiled with her face AND her eyes.
"How is your ankle? I missed you so much!."
Then I smiled. I thought of all the long nights I had spent with this little 97 yr old woman. Half of the time she couldn't remember what she ate during the day or what song she had listened to..which is quite common among the elderly with dementia. But..she remembered me.
"It's doing better, " I replied as I helped her sit up.
She smiled again as we saw eachother eye to eye.
"I love you", she said.
It was then my turn to smile..and boy did I smile..with my face, my eyes, and my soul :)
Sharon's Sublimity
A piece of beauty from my week. I am entering this in the Village Photo Contest and titled it "The Giving Tree" (Many thanks to Shel Silverstein for the idea) I love how the Village has provided opportunities for learning and growth for my children and myself.
Quintessential Quinn
Beauteous moment of the Sunday afternoon: Leo toddling around Grandma and Papa's backyard for the first time. Ah, the curiosity in his blue-eyed, blonde-haired, rosy-cheeked, sweat-beaded nose of a face! The moment I wish I could have captured forever on camera was when I was following behind him, practically tangled in the bleached-white bedsheet on the clothesline, as it billowed and then snapped back at us in the wind, shading and then revealing the glow of the early evening sun. He fearlessly yet somewhat awkwardly blazed through the white barrier, pushing himself back up to his feet each time the windy sheet stole his balance. My sparkly-eyed son is truly a little lion cub--cuddly, golden, and growling. :)
Now that y'all know the call for beauty is coming on Sundays, keep your eyes and ears peeled, your hearts open and your cameras ready to capture and share!
Without further adieu...
Delights from Donna
Angela was trying to get some great shots for the Village photo contest. I decided to wash and hang out all of Dominics Bumgenius and Angela decided it was photo worthy.
I had Mary and Clara help me and they were the best little helpers in the world. My intention was that they would be in the picture but I think we all forgot and just had a wonderful time together. I got to see the beauty the Angela and Simone see in their girls every day. It felt like a connective moment between the three of us. I know what it feels like to see it in my on son but I think it is something special to see it in others' children. I adore all of your children and look forward to more little moments with all of them!
Angela's Artistry
Jacob's Joy
When he heard that I was asking friends to share beauty, Jacob wanted to contribute too. In his own words:My beauty is Cecilia. She is the best baby I have ever met. She is cute. She is beautiful. She says a lot of words. She's the best little sister. It's going to be so fun when she's 5.
Mommy, I also want to share this beauty: Apple Appetite and the Amazing Day.
LOVE that kid!
Beth's Bouncing BoyThis morning Jack was fussing and Rob was trying to soothe him, and finally he handed him to me and Jack immediately smiled and went "Ha, hah!", as if to say "Yes, it was MOMMY I wanted!" Very flattering to me, if not poor Rob -- that's my bit of beauty!
Nicole's Newness
Nicole wanted to share, 'just how important friendship is and how it truly strengthens the soul. It feels like sunshine running through your veins!"
had called off work for about a week due to an unexplainable vasculitis on my ankle. It was a very emotionally and physically draining week in which I was constantly going to the doctor to get rechecked, keeping my ankle up, and attempting to protect and shield it from very energetic children and fluffy pets.
I went back to work to my night shift. For those of you who haven't worked it, you have no clue how difficult this particular shift is. In a word: CRAZY. LOL. All laughing aside, it does have its positives as well. I grabbed my Mt Dew, and off I went..feeling particularly sorry for myself.
I have one particular patient who demands attention constantly throughout the night...open the window, shut the window, turn up the heat, take off my blanket, thirsty, and so on and so forth. In all honesty, as I went over my care notes, I really was dreading the long night that I knew lay ahead of me.
Like clockwork, as soon as my co-worker left, "Princess" rang. I sighed as I thought..let the games begin! I opened her bedroom door..my ears were unappreciative of the usual loud music that she found so necessary to keep on throughout the night. Then, I saw her..so tiny amidst the large fluffy white bed. Her eyes wandered just like a child's searching for comfort.
Then she saw me..a look appeared on her face..was that a smile??
As I bent to speak to her, she smiled with her face AND her eyes.
"How is your ankle? I missed you so much!."
Then I smiled. I thought of all the long nights I had spent with this little 97 yr old woman. Half of the time she couldn't remember what she ate during the day or what song she had listened to..which is quite common among the elderly with dementia. But..she remembered me.
"It's doing better, " I replied as I helped her sit up.
She smiled again as we saw eachother eye to eye.
"I love you", she said.
It was then my turn to smile..and boy did I smile..with my face, my eyes, and my soul :)
Sharon's Sublimity
A piece of beauty from my week. I am entering this in the Village Photo Contest and titled it "The Giving Tree" (Many thanks to Shel Silverstein for the idea) I love how the Village has provided opportunities for learning and growth for my children and myself.
Theresa's Treasures
My little bit of beauty is watching my husband with his new baby. :) Quintessential Quinn
Beauteous moment of the Sunday afternoon: Leo toddling around Grandma and Papa's backyard for the first time. Ah, the curiosity in his blue-eyed, blonde-haired, rosy-cheeked, sweat-beaded nose of a face! The moment I wish I could have captured forever on camera was when I was following behind him, practically tangled in the bleached-white bedsheet on the clothesline, as it billowed and then snapped back at us in the wind, shading and then revealing the glow of the early evening sun. He fearlessly yet somewhat awkwardly blazed through the white barrier, pushing himself back up to his feet each time the windy sheet stole his balance. My sparkly-eyed son is truly a little lion cub--cuddly, golden, and growling. :)
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
New Design, extended Beauty Fest
Leave it to two of the busiest Village mamas to be my only beauty fest sharers. THANK YOU, Sharon and Angela!
PEEPS!!
Out of a desire to maintain my faith in humanity (I kid, I kid), I'm going to extend the Beauty Fest for one more day.
SO, it need not be eloquent poety or prize-winning photography, but just a simple, "I found beauty too!"
Part of my intention in blogging is to have this be a community appreciation for the beauty in the ordinary, and to help us help each other to find it. Especially when times are tough.
I know that my thoughts are not necessarily special, unique or well- written, but they are mine, and it's been such a blessing to share them.
Over the past weeks, I've toyed with the idea of stopping the whole blog thing when we return from Israel, and just get back to journaling the old fashioned way.
It's safer, right?
But for now, I decided to change the design, add some new pretty fonts and keep on keepin' on with the blogging. For now. ;)
Still to come: A belated BF post and a happy birthday to a special sister.
Happy Tuesday!
PEEPS!!
Out of a desire to maintain my faith in humanity (I kid, I kid), I'm going to extend the Beauty Fest for one more day.
SO, it need not be eloquent poety or prize-winning photography, but just a simple, "I found beauty too!"
Part of my intention in blogging is to have this be a community appreciation for the beauty in the ordinary, and to help us help each other to find it. Especially when times are tough.
I know that my thoughts are not necessarily special, unique or well- written, but they are mine, and it's been such a blessing to share them.
Over the past weeks, I've toyed with the idea of stopping the whole blog thing when we return from Israel, and just get back to journaling the old fashioned way.
It's safer, right?
But for now, I decided to change the design, add some new pretty fonts and keep on keepin' on with the blogging. For now. ;)
Still to come: A belated BF post and a happy birthday to a special sister.
Happy Tuesday!
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Adieu
I sit here with puffy eyes, a stuffy nose and a vodka and diet orange Fanta after bidding adieu to the family.
I'm not gonna lie, I'm having a rough time of it.
I know it would otherwise be difficult, but the fact that Kathleen enters the convent before we return makes it extra tender and hard to handle. Add to it the cloistered nature of her order, and you have yourself one walloping emotional goodbye.
I have profound respect, admiration and awe of Kathleen's choice to enter the Carmelites. I am intensely aware of the reality of a life of prayer, the insignificance in the eyes of the world but the immensity of grace and heavenly blessings that come from such devoted, fervent faith.
That being said, it hurts to the point of rawness to think that we won't see her when we get home. We can't watch her wrestle with Jacob or throw Ceci in the air, or crack sarcastic jokes or just be in her sweet presence.
As Kevin says, it's the closest thing to a death without a death.
I would not purport to even know what it's like to lose a close loved one, would never diminish the feeling of saying goodbye forever to your sister, brother, son daughter. That would be remiss.
I only say, this just hurts.
Our week together as a family, however, was just anointed. I kept using that word over and over, but it was so real, unreal, surreal, magical, blessed, graced, joyful, intense, and true gift. For that I am eternally grateful.
We met so many amazing people, heard stories and shared stories, seen sights of unparalleled beauty. In order to process everything properly, I'm going to take a few days to think on it all, trying to find some way, albeit far lacking, to describe our time together.
Right now, though, I'm needing some love from my peeps, my tribe, my soul friends and readers. What better time to institute a new blog tradition?
I am from here out establishing a Sunday Beauty Fest and I need your help.
Yes---YOU!!!!!!
I know you're out there, I know you read the blog (we're approaching I know you see beauty every day and you need to share it up in here, folks.
Here's the deal. Email me, facebook message me, leave a comment on the blog, just SHARE, SHARE, SHARE your favorite beauteous moment(s) of the past week. By Tuesday morning for you stateside folk, I want to have a big 'ole pile of beauty to share. I'll make a post of your pictures, stories, poems or limericks for all to see, giving props where needed or leaving it anonymous if you'd prefer.
Don't leave a sister hangin', ya here?? Do it up.
Just to show you how easy it is, I'll start. :)
First, one of my favorite beauty happenings was yesterday, April 9th, the birthday of my soul sister Quinn. Her dedicated post is in-the-making. How do you make an ode to 11 years of hilarity? A yeoman's job, I tell you.
Here's some of my favorite beauty moments, in picture form.
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