So, instead, enjoy this cute video!
Monday, March 31, 2014
8th Day of 100 Happy Days Challenge
Happy Day # 8: My free cookie dough iced coffee from Dunkin' Donuts (courtesy of a birthday coupon that expired today) made me happy on the 8th day of the 100 Happy Days challenge. I don't have a picture of it since it didn't last that long and was gone within minutes of exiting the DD parking lot.
So, instead, enjoy this cute video!
So, instead, enjoy this cute video!
Sunday, March 30, 2014
Weekend of Happy
Happy Day # 6: Tonight before his bedtime, my nephew, Clark, combed and played with my hair. It felt so relaxing and reminded me of times from years ago when my grandmother brushed my hair for hours on end as a little girl.
Happy Day # 7:
On Saturday, my parents and three friends carpooled to the Ignited by Truth Catholic Conference in Raleigh. There, we met up with four other friends from the Triad area. This was my fourth, and final, IBT conference. Each year, powerful talks and testimony are shared with the audience and yesterday was no different. However, what was most exciting for me this year was the chance to talk with Dr. Scott Hahn again and to share the news with his wife and him that I would be joining the faculty at Franciscan University of Steubenville as a new professor in the Education Department in Fall 2014. In fact, I used a picture you will see below that Dad had taken with Dr. Hahn as my way of "announcing" the news. I was amazed at the love and support that came pouring through via texts, messages, and comments on social media. What blessings my family and friends, both virtual and in person, are and I'm thankful for each one.
Last, but not least, if you want my notes that I took yesterday, just let me know and I will happily email you the scanned notes. I would post them here but can't figure out how to do so.
* Below the pictures is the response I composed replying to the sweet comments I received on Fb.
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| Kimberly Hahn speaking about family and love. |
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| I just realized another ironic twist! Not only did my Grandmother go to the same college as Kimberly Hahn (Mom's mom) but my bag of children's handprints that I am using in this picture came from Grove City from my student teaching placement there 12 years ago! |
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| Dr. Scott Hahn talking about forgiveness and mercy through Confession. |
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| Jennifer Fulwiler spoke about her conversion story from atheist to Catholic. |
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| It's been a fun ride ~ Can't believe this is the last IBT I will be attending with some of my Triad area church friends! |
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| Oh, just hanging out with my future colleague/coworker, Dr. Scott Hahn, effective as of August 2014. :) |
You are SO right Chris & Sheryl…no other way to put it as superabundant blessings have been raining down that’s for sure. Fulfilling my purpose…wow! I hadn’t thought of it that way. If anyone is doubtful of what can happen when you put all at the feet of the Lord, I wish they could see all that has happened in my life (both the not so good and the awesome parts) since May 2010!
Christian, you crack me up….I love that we bumped into each other THREE times during that interview day! Ironically, I met someone yesterday, in Raleigh, who graduated from the Education Dept. in Dec. but will walk in May. She reaffirmed my decision to accept the offer through her obvious love of FUS and talking of how the professors work so closely with the students making it seem more like a family atmosphere which is something I definitely crave as a working environment.
For those who wanted more specific details: I’ll be a professor in the Education Department (general education) and will teach four classes each semester. While that is a HEAVY courseload, I am hopeful that with the support of my colleagues and smaller class sizes than what I taught at UNCG, that I’ll be able to navigate the challenges. I will have my summers to either do additional teaching or most likely to write and work on research as I work towards tenure. I am not sure where I will be living yet as Pittsburgh is only 45 minutes away from campus. As soon as I know where I’m moving to, I will be able to start getting familiar w/ campus, my new colleagues, and of course planning for teaching in the fall. The sooner that can happen the better I will feel as this transition, while exciting, is going to take a LOT of planning to ensure a smoother fall semester for my future students and myself (and Dusty Shamrock).
George, yes, he’s a phenomenal speaker! His wife, Kimberly, gave one of my favorite talks at yesterday’s conference!! I can’t wait to soak up all that happens on campus both as a professor and as an attendee at talks/workshops/conferences/studies/etc.!
Mapquest says that my parents will be about five hours from there meaning it’s closer than NC so yes, Michaelann, definitely closer to you all than where I am now! For those of you who go to FUS for youth ministry and other meetings, please do let me know as I would LOVE to volunteer and help with your group when you’re there!
Albert, what a small world!! I will see what I can do..ha! I hope to join his wife’s women’s study if possible!
Uncle Bill, you are right!! I will feel a thousand times better once I know where I’m living so I can start the moving process and make myself available to FUS to ensure the fall semester is adequately planned for and my students’ needs are met! Truth be told, I am treating myself to a quick trip to Denver a few days before graduation to see an old friend because I have a feeling this summer will be a busy one of transitioning!
Very cool, Mickey! Where did you meet him? He’s going to be talking at a parish where my old job headquarters were soon (New Oxford, PA).
Much love and thanks to all of you for your excitement and support!! I'm super duper excited, and nervous, but feel confident this is where I'm meant to be for now. If you didn't already, you've now got a friend at FUS!
Friday, March 28, 2014
Fueled by Faith Friday
What a crazy day it was today! It started bright and early at 6am with an early morning on campus to attend an award ceremony with my parents, some fun colleagues, and my trusted advisor. Next, my parents and I tried out a few culinary dishes at Natty Greene's in anticipation of our lunch gathering that will take place on Graduation Day in six weeks!!
After a quick stop at the post office and Sweet Frogs for a delicious frozen yogurt dessert, we finally made it back to the house by 4:30pm. What a whirlwind of a day! Then my Mom and I ran over to IHM where we met up with some church friends and attended an emotional living Stations of the Cross put on by the youth at my church. The kids did a great job and I loved listening to my friend's beautiful voice as she sang some of the songs, one of which was my NC anthem of "Be Not Afraid".
I appreciated the lyrics tonight as I had been stressing over graduation day plans and the summer moving schedule earlier this afternoon. What a terrific reminder tonight's Stations of the Cross provided me in helping me to realize that I need to offer up the stress and worry and trust in Jesus. Now, it's not even 10pm and I'm ready to fall into bed after the hectic busy day we had.
Here is more information about the award ceremony this morning. Enjoy the photos thanks to my colleague's husband who made like paparazzi by shooting photos all morning! ; ) Happy Day # 5: It was terrific getting to talk to others about my research and so neat my parents were able to attend the ceremony (and take photos..ha). I'm so thankful for the opportunities I've been blessed with amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday living!
Email announcement at work:
We want to extend congratulation to Meg, Tammy, and Sheresa. These students have been selected to receive a 2014 School of Education Graduate Research Award! Each department was asked to identify three top graduate research scholars in their department. Although general guidelines were given, each department was left to create a selection process and criteria to select their students. The departments were asked to identify an overall top student and then two who should receive honorable mention. In the SES department, Meg was chosen as the overall top student while Tammy and Sheresa received honorable mention. These three individuals are being honored today, March 28th, for their hard work and achievements.
The professor in charge of the event sent this lovely follow-up email later today:
I just want to personally thank all of you for making our first Research Award Ceremony a huge success. Students, you all did an excellent job on the posters and I'm sure everyone enjoyed seeing and talking with you about your various projects. Those of you who had the opportunity to speak did a super job. There are many times as an administrator or as a faculty member where I face days that can be long and frustrating. But it is days and events like this morning, working with students and faculty such as you, that make it all worthwhile. Thank you so much for all that you do!
Yes, today was jam-packed with smiles, speeches, nerves, conversations, stress, tears, & exhaustion that has me yearning for bed I'm glad to be able to turn it all over to God and offer it up to Him!
After a quick stop at the post office and Sweet Frogs for a delicious frozen yogurt dessert, we finally made it back to the house by 4:30pm. What a whirlwind of a day! Then my Mom and I ran over to IHM where we met up with some church friends and attended an emotional living Stations of the Cross put on by the youth at my church. The kids did a great job and I loved listening to my friend's beautiful voice as she sang some of the songs, one of which was my NC anthem of "Be Not Afraid".
I appreciated the lyrics tonight as I had been stressing over graduation day plans and the summer moving schedule earlier this afternoon. What a terrific reminder tonight's Stations of the Cross provided me in helping me to realize that I need to offer up the stress and worry and trust in Jesus. Now, it's not even 10pm and I'm ready to fall into bed after the hectic busy day we had.
Here is more information about the award ceremony this morning. Enjoy the photos thanks to my colleague's husband who made like paparazzi by shooting photos all morning! ; ) Happy Day # 5: It was terrific getting to talk to others about my research and so neat my parents were able to attend the ceremony (and take photos..ha). I'm so thankful for the opportunities I've been blessed with amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday living!
Email announcement at work:
We want to extend congratulation to Meg, Tammy, and Sheresa. These students have been selected to receive a 2014 School of Education Graduate Research Award! Each department was asked to identify three top graduate research scholars in their department. Although general guidelines were given, each department was left to create a selection process and criteria to select their students. The departments were asked to identify an overall top student and then two who should receive honorable mention. In the SES department, Meg was chosen as the overall top student while Tammy and Sheresa received honorable mention. These three individuals are being honored today, March 28th, for their hard work and achievements.
I just want to personally thank all of you for making our first Research Award Ceremony a huge success. Students, you all did an excellent job on the posters and I'm sure everyone enjoyed seeing and talking with you about your various projects. Those of you who had the opportunity to speak did a super job. There are many times as an administrator or as a faculty member where I face days that can be long and frustrating. But it is days and events like this morning, working with students and faculty such as you, that make it all worthwhile. Thank you so much for all that you do!
Yes, today was jam-packed with smiles, speeches, nerves, conversations, stress, tears, & exhaustion that has me yearning for bed I'm glad to be able to turn it all over to God and offer it up to Him!
Cuddly furball of love
After five weeks and three days, my little furbaby is back in my arms bringing me today's day # 4 happy day moment!!
Due to job interviews, attending a conference, and going to CA for Spring Break, Dusty Shamrock took a little vacation with his grandparents and spent the last 38 days in the best state ever, aka Pennsylvania. I'm SO glad he is back in NC with me as of tonight...and I also get to spend time with my parents to boot! I have a feeling the next six weeks will just fly by as we pack up our belongings and prepare to leave NC. I'm so thankful for my little loveable sidekick who will be at my side as we start over someplace new (again).
Due to job interviews, attending a conference, and going to CA for Spring Break, Dusty Shamrock took a little vacation with his grandparents and spent the last 38 days in the best state ever, aka Pennsylvania. I'm SO glad he is back in NC with me as of tonight...and I also get to spend time with my parents to boot! I have a feeling the next six weeks will just fly by as we pack up our belongings and prepare to leave NC. I'm so thankful for my little loveable sidekick who will be at my side as we start over someplace new (again).
"We have so many needs in our life, but at the end of the day, all we need is to be needed." ~ Anonymous
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Little Men
Back at the beginning of the school year, my oldest nephew and I were riding home from a family outing together. I get a kick out of the fact that my niece and nephews view riding in my small (usually less than orderly) car as a special treat. On one such night, Clark was talking a mile a minute as we drove home about the things passing by his window. It was no easy feat keeping him quiet when we made a brief ten minute stop at the perpetual adoration chapel on the way back to the house.
It was Clark's first time in this chapel and he, who was a little over 4 years old at that time, wanted to touch and ask about everything he saw. He was particularly enthralled with the serpent under Mary's foot that was eye level for him as we knelt and prayed by the statue.
After leaving the chapel, we passed a dog running alongside the road. Clark asked where the dog was going to which I responded it didn't look like he had a collar and he might be lost. I suggested we say a quick prayer asking God and St. Francis of Assisi to keep the dog safe from harm. A few minutes later, I had to use the brakes hard as we came to a sudden stop to allow two large deer cross our path. Then, one light away from our driveway, we saw another dog trotting down the highway. As we parked the car, Clark asked if we could say a prayer for the other animals we had seen on our drive to keep them all safe. How sweet he is!
Day 3: Moments with the little men in my life, such as what I just described with Clark last fall, or when unpacking last week with the help of my youngest NC nephew, Nick, make me happy!
It was Clark's first time in this chapel and he, who was a little over 4 years old at that time, wanted to touch and ask about everything he saw. He was particularly enthralled with the serpent under Mary's foot that was eye level for him as we knelt and prayed by the statue.
After leaving the chapel, we passed a dog running alongside the road. Clark asked where the dog was going to which I responded it didn't look like he had a collar and he might be lost. I suggested we say a quick prayer asking God and St. Francis of Assisi to keep the dog safe from harm. A few minutes later, I had to use the brakes hard as we came to a sudden stop to allow two large deer cross our path. Then, one light away from our driveway, we saw another dog trotting down the highway. As we parked the car, Clark asked if we could say a prayer for the other animals we had seen on our drive to keep them all safe. How sweet he is!
Day 3: Moments with the little men in my life, such as what I just described with Clark last fall, or when unpacking last week with the help of my youngest NC nephew, Nick, make me happy!
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Perfection
In getting caught up on daily Lenten reflections (many thanks to awesome Kevin for posting these on Fb), I read these words tonight (source is given below).
Gospel: Matthew 5:43–48
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/031514.cfm
Meditation:
“So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
This morning I happened to pick up a personal notebook that I had kept about fourteen years ago. I had written in it some resolutions about ways I could grow spiritually, noting several areas for improvement. Not much has changed in fourteen years! I had to laugh at myself because I realized that despite all my plans and good intentions, I still have to work on a lot of the same areas that I was working on back then. I’m pretty much the same person.
I suppose I could get discouraged at that. But it’s probably the same for most people. We do grow, change, and mature through the years. But we also have our same personality, genetic makeup, and personal background that have stamped us in certain ways. I’ll probably be writing the same resolutions for Lent until the end of my life.
And that’s okay. God doesn’t expect us to be perfect in the sense of not having any faults. He just expects us to keep on trying, to never give up the fight, and to keep on plodding along in our spiritual life. When Jesus tells us to “be perfect as our heavenly Father is perfect,” he doesn’t mean that we should have no flaws. The Greek word the Gospel uses for “perfect” (teleiois) has the sense of tending to grow to maturity. Something reaches perfection when it’s fully developed, like a fruit tree bearing luscious, juicy peaches or plums. Jesus is not telling us to be perfect as if that meant a static state, to be achieved once and for all. Instead, he’s telling us to always strive for spiritual growth. He’s warning us against getting too comfortable in our spiritual lives. And if anyone can make us uncomfortable, our enemies can. Loving our enemies will surely move us along the way of perfection.
Gospel: Matthew 5:43–48
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/031514.cfm
Meditation:
“So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
This morning I happened to pick up a personal notebook that I had kept about fourteen years ago. I had written in it some resolutions about ways I could grow spiritually, noting several areas for improvement. Not much has changed in fourteen years! I had to laugh at myself because I realized that despite all my plans and good intentions, I still have to work on a lot of the same areas that I was working on back then. I’m pretty much the same person.
I suppose I could get discouraged at that. But it’s probably the same for most people. We do grow, change, and mature through the years. But we also have our same personality, genetic makeup, and personal background that have stamped us in certain ways. I’ll probably be writing the same resolutions for Lent until the end of my life.
And that’s okay. God doesn’t expect us to be perfect in the sense of not having any faults. He just expects us to keep on trying, to never give up the fight, and to keep on plodding along in our spiritual life. When Jesus tells us to “be perfect as our heavenly Father is perfect,” he doesn’t mean that we should have no flaws. The Greek word the Gospel uses for “perfect” (teleiois) has the sense of tending to grow to maturity. Something reaches perfection when it’s fully developed, like a fruit tree bearing luscious, juicy peaches or plums. Jesus is not telling us to be perfect as if that meant a static state, to be achieved once and for all. Instead, he’s telling us to always strive for spiritual growth. He’s warning us against getting too comfortable in our spiritual lives. And if anyone can make us uncomfortable, our enemies can. Loving our enemies will surely move us along the way of perfection.
Prayer:
Jesus, thank you for being so patient with me. Thank you for supporting me with your grace, even when I fall again and again into the same sins and failings that have been with me for years. Help me to climb out of the muck, wipe off the mud, and keep on going. I know that your hand will always be there to help me up. I ask for your grace to reach the goal you are calling me to and not to let myself get too comfortable along the way. I may have to stop and rest for a while, but I know that you will stay with me, Lord, and together we’ll reach the goal.
Contemplation:
“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
Daughters of Saint Paul. (2008). Lenten Grace: Daily Gospel Reflections (pp. 30–31). Boston, MA: Pauline Books & Media.
How reassuring these words are!
In keeping up with the 100 Happy Days project, today's happy moment was brought to me courtesy of this text (that I didn't bother taking a photo of) I received from my sister-in-law as I headed over to Our Lady of Grace church in Greensboro this morning, "GAME TIME!" for I knew when I read those words that my new nephew or niece would be here some time today! Benjamin made his debut tonight shortly after 7pm. I'm so happy for my twin and his growing family!!! Such perfect love is felt as my family rejoices in the newest blessing!
Jesus, thank you for being so patient with me. Thank you for supporting me with your grace, even when I fall again and again into the same sins and failings that have been with me for years. Help me to climb out of the muck, wipe off the mud, and keep on going. I know that your hand will always be there to help me up. I ask for your grace to reach the goal you are calling me to and not to let myself get too comfortable along the way. I may have to stop and rest for a while, but I know that you will stay with me, Lord, and together we’ll reach the goal.
Contemplation:
“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
Daughters of Saint Paul. (2008). Lenten Grace: Daily Gospel Reflections (pp. 30–31). Boston, MA: Pauline Books & Media.
How reassuring these words are!
In keeping up with the 100 Happy Days project, today's happy moment was brought to me courtesy of this text (that I didn't bother taking a photo of) I received from my sister-in-law as I headed over to Our Lady of Grace church in Greensboro this morning, "GAME TIME!" for I knew when I read those words that my new nephew or niece would be here some time today! Benjamin made his debut tonight shortly after 7pm. I'm so happy for my twin and his growing family!!! Such perfect love is felt as my family rejoices in the newest blessing!
Monday, March 24, 2014
100 Days
Those of you who know me well know that I inevitably have a countdown going at any given point in time.
For instance, 19 weeks until I get to go back to California.
Mom, Dad, & Dusty Shamrock will be here in 3 days! Yay!!
Two more paychecks until no more incoming money....eek!
A mere 46 days remain until graduation weekend is upon us.
Some may take this as I'm always wishing away my time or looking ahead to the future rather than relishing the moment at hand or being fully present in the here and now. I beg to differ; I've learned over the last couple years being down here in the South that while a small part of these beliefs about me may be true, they're not 100% accurate. I feel I've improved in "living in the moment" but the planner inside will always have an eye on what is coming up on the calendar. Rather than try to stifle this feature about me, I've come to embrace it and use that character trait as a strength through attempting to keep myself organized so I can be prepared and meet deadlines as a result, through sharing the organizational strategies/tips (can we say color coded calendars?), am able to find better deals for said future plans (long live Groupon & LivingSocial vouchers!), and even serving on committees at church/work that utilize this aspect of me in a positive way. Having said that, I also could stand to improve with flexibility and spontaneity and know that planning is not for everyone.
Soooo, when I stumbled upon this challenge that combined numbers, counting, and being still so as to truly appreciate the present moments...well, I couldn't resist.
Yesterday, during the gloomy rainy day we experienced, I was feeling a bit down...which is absurd considering I have much to be thankful for as I move toward the future. Yet, a part of me is terrified and uneasy with all the changes that are about come my way. I could shrug these feelings off and blame the weather or say I'm feeling so unsettled because there are so many unknowns right now or attribute all to the fact that I don't necessarily care for change but rather than try to find a reason why, a label, or an excuse, I would rather focus on other things that will help to lift the funk. This "100 Happy Days" project sounds like it could be very uplifting and just the thing.
Hmm, 100 days from now will be....July 2, 2014.
By then, I could be living wherever I'm going next or I could still be in NC babysitting or I could be completely ready for Fall 2014 or I could be freaking out over all that is headed my way in the upcoming months or.........well, no one can say for sure but what I do know is that God will provide and through His grace, the support and love of family & friends, along with hard work, I will be fine even if I have a hard time remembering all of this during stressful times.
So what is this "100 Happy Days" project? You can find out more here but basically this challenge focuses the participant to look at the positive and find at least one thing that makes him or her happy each day for 100 days in a row and share that thing through a photo. 71% of folks who tried this cited lack of time as the main reason why they could not finish this challenge. This happy days challenge reminds me of the Thanksgiving Thankful challenges I like to do in November and the Grateful Challenge I did last May but the 100 day in a row concept intrigues me. Let's do this!
Day 1: With longer days, spring here, and warmer weather on the way, nature currently makes me happy. I especially love seeing green and purple mixed together and of course different hues of blue always make my heart happy regardless of the season.
For instance, 19 weeks until I get to go back to California.
Mom, Dad, & Dusty Shamrock will be here in 3 days! Yay!!
Two more paychecks until no more incoming money....eek!
A mere 46 days remain until graduation weekend is upon us.
Some may take this as I'm always wishing away my time or looking ahead to the future rather than relishing the moment at hand or being fully present in the here and now. I beg to differ; I've learned over the last couple years being down here in the South that while a small part of these beliefs about me may be true, they're not 100% accurate. I feel I've improved in "living in the moment" but the planner inside will always have an eye on what is coming up on the calendar. Rather than try to stifle this feature about me, I've come to embrace it and use that character trait as a strength through attempting to keep myself organized so I can be prepared and meet deadlines as a result, through sharing the organizational strategies/tips (can we say color coded calendars?), am able to find better deals for said future plans (long live Groupon & LivingSocial vouchers!), and even serving on committees at church/work that utilize this aspect of me in a positive way. Having said that, I also could stand to improve with flexibility and spontaneity and know that planning is not for everyone.
Soooo, when I stumbled upon this challenge that combined numbers, counting, and being still so as to truly appreciate the present moments...well, I couldn't resist.
Yesterday, during the gloomy rainy day we experienced, I was feeling a bit down...which is absurd considering I have much to be thankful for as I move toward the future. Yet, a part of me is terrified and uneasy with all the changes that are about come my way. I could shrug these feelings off and blame the weather or say I'm feeling so unsettled because there are so many unknowns right now or attribute all to the fact that I don't necessarily care for change but rather than try to find a reason why, a label, or an excuse, I would rather focus on other things that will help to lift the funk. This "100 Happy Days" project sounds like it could be very uplifting and just the thing.
Hmm, 100 days from now will be....July 2, 2014.
By then, I could be living wherever I'm going next or I could still be in NC babysitting or I could be completely ready for Fall 2014 or I could be freaking out over all that is headed my way in the upcoming months or.........well, no one can say for sure but what I do know is that God will provide and through His grace, the support and love of family & friends, along with hard work, I will be fine even if I have a hard time remembering all of this during stressful times.
So what is this "100 Happy Days" project? You can find out more here but basically this challenge focuses the participant to look at the positive and find at least one thing that makes him or her happy each day for 100 days in a row and share that thing through a photo. 71% of folks who tried this cited lack of time as the main reason why they could not finish this challenge. This happy days challenge reminds me of the Thanksgiving Thankful challenges I like to do in November and the Grateful Challenge I did last May but the 100 day in a row concept intrigues me. Let's do this!
Day 1: With longer days, spring here, and warmer weather on the way, nature currently makes me happy. I especially love seeing green and purple mixed together and of course different hues of blue always make my heart happy regardless of the season.
Sunday, March 23, 2014
Rain, rain, go away...!
What beautiful weather we had in California over the last two weeks!! It didn't rain at all the whole time I was out there visiting Adam and his family. I'm not sure which I miss more: the sunshiney beautiful weather or Adam. ; )
I suppose I shouldn't complain about today's dreary weather since the rain will help to make the spring flowers grow and bring back the lush greenery I so love down here in NC. Besides, you can't appreciate the rainbows if you don't have the clouds first right? Let's go out there and make our own sunshiney moments umbrella or no umbrella!
Friday, March 21, 2014
Paths
http://factsandotherfairytales.com/2013/01/04/the-least-stressful-job-for-2013-a-real-look-at-being-a-professor-in-the-us/
I just read the article posted at the above link. It's unnerving to read such articles considering graduation is seven short weeks from today. However, I'm hoping I made the right decision and am on the path that I'm meant to be on for now!
This is a picture from Mount Rubidoux in Riverside, CA.
When I reflect on this picture, I can't help but think about how it could be a metaphor for life right now. To the left are big boulders that may seem impossible to climb or may crumble and fall at any moment yet to the right is a rocky jagged cliff on which you could lose your balance. Yet the path is there for you to follow...it may wind and disappear around a corner but it's there and always has been. Do you see the cross at the center on top of the mountain? This picture helps me to keep in mind that God will always be there for us even when we don't know what's up ahead...think of all the paths we have all taken up to this point. Some have been deliberate, some have been unplanned, and others have been blessings in disguise I'm sure. So, keep on walking and follow the path. As a colleague and I discussed during lunch yesterday, while reflecting on our PhD journeys, there is a difference between knowing the path and walking the path.
Walking may require a leap of faith but that's okay;
I would imagine the view is going to be so much better from there anyway.
~ Jeremiah 29:11 ~
I just read the article posted at the above link. It's unnerving to read such articles considering graduation is seven short weeks from today. However, I'm hoping I made the right decision and am on the path that I'm meant to be on for now!
This is a picture from Mount Rubidoux in Riverside, CA.
When I reflect on this picture, I can't help but think about how it could be a metaphor for life right now. To the left are big boulders that may seem impossible to climb or may crumble and fall at any moment yet to the right is a rocky jagged cliff on which you could lose your balance. Yet the path is there for you to follow...it may wind and disappear around a corner but it's there and always has been. Do you see the cross at the center on top of the mountain? This picture helps me to keep in mind that God will always be there for us even when we don't know what's up ahead...think of all the paths we have all taken up to this point. Some have been deliberate, some have been unplanned, and others have been blessings in disguise I'm sure. So, keep on walking and follow the path. As a colleague and I discussed during lunch yesterday, while reflecting on our PhD journeys, there is a difference between knowing the path and walking the path.
Walking may require a leap of faith but that's okay;
I would imagine the view is going to be so much better from there anyway.
~ Jeremiah 29:11 ~
Fueled by Faith Friday
My Aunt Marie gave me an inspirational quote-a-day calendar this past Christmas. Here are some recent quotes that have been highly applicable these days. Maybe they will strike a chord within you as well?
"Life can only be understood backwards, but must be lived forwards" ~ Anonymous
"You can become blind by seeing each day as a similar one. Each day is a different one, each day brings a miracle of its own. It's just a matter of paying attention to this miracle" ~ Paulo Coelho
"If you can imagine it - you can achieve it. If you can dream it - you can become it."
"Don't be afraid of your fears. They're not there to scare you. They're there to let you know that something is worth it" ~ C. Joy Bell
Today something HUGE happened. The last quote, which happens to be today's quote, is reminding me to be not afraid. :)
"Life can only be understood backwards, but must be lived forwards" ~ Anonymous
"You can become blind by seeing each day as a similar one. Each day is a different one, each day brings a miracle of its own. It's just a matter of paying attention to this miracle" ~ Paulo Coelho
"If you can imagine it - you can achieve it. If you can dream it - you can become it."
"Don't be afraid of your fears. They're not there to scare you. They're there to let you know that something is worth it" ~ C. Joy Bell
Today something HUGE happened. The last quote, which happens to be today's quote, is reminding me to be not afraid. :)
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Two trips for one and St. Joe!
Today is March 19th which makes it one of the two Feast Days of St. Joseph. I've always admired St. Joseph for his strong silent fortitude and bravery in leading the Holy Family.
When I was younger, before I knew more about this earthly father of Jesus, I used to enjoy the fact that I attended Holy Family Elementary School and then St. Joseph's for 5th grade. 5th grade has always been my favorite year when I think back over my elementary/high school years. Was it because my favorite teacher, Ms. Bednar, taught us that year? Was it because we had more independence as older students? Perhaps it was due to being able to walk the two blocks down the "beer alley" to get to school from our house. Or maybe it was because we felt like we were our separate school since the principal was across town at Holy Family. Or I might have enjoyed it since it was two floors above my childhood church. I had grown up attending mass at St. Joe's from 2nd grade through 12th grade when not traveling to Schuylkill Haven to St. Ambrose. It was a small school with only 5th through 8th grades in it in one hallway. I have so many happy memories of being in that creaky tall building with both my twin and my older brother and wish we could have spent 6th through 8th grades there! Unfortunately, at the end of my 5th grade year, the school was deemed unsafe for use and the grades were split. 6th grade was sent back to Holy Family while 7th and 8th were shipped off to Cardinal Brennan High School.
Another reason I appreciate this day is because it is my aunt and godmother, Aunt Maureen's, feast day too. She belongs to the Sisters of St. Joseph order so March 19th signifies a special day for her as well.
I recently learned about another cool connection to today while in California. When shopping at Michael's the other week, Adam said that a clue about one of his surprises was on a display in the craft store. He led me over to the display and asked which one I liked. The display consisted of art projects and models that you could build of local missions. I had no idea what I was looking at that day. I did not know that in CA there are 21 missions that had been established. I later learned that 4th grade students spend a lot of time learning about these special places within Californian history. So there we were standing in the aisle at Michael's with Adam asking which one I might like to go to someday. I chose this one because of the distinctive domes.
That was when Adam told me he was taking me to the beautiful Mission San Juan Capistrano! Well, you can't tell me something like that as we're standing in a craft store and expect me to not want to build the model of the mission. ;) So, using a gift card from my "York Mom" who happens to be an awesome artist herself (go look at her beautiful work here) I purchased the materials we needed to make our own mission.
The packaging said a ten year old could put the model together in six hours or less. This did not prepare me for the hours of frustration and irritation I experienced as I worked to put the mission together over the course of a week. Somehow, eventually it all came together with Adam's help, but I made one big mistake. I put the domes on the wrong side. Oops. Let's just call this model created with love a mirror reflection of the mission instead. ;) Adam and I joked that we would have our picture taken at the mission and then print them out and put them in our model but we actually forgot to have our picture taken that day! Guess we will just have to go back to what they call the "Jewel of the Missions" another time!
What we did learn, during our brief visit to the beautiful mission, was that every year on The Feast Day of St. Joseph ~ March 19th, the swallows return to Mission San Juan Capistrano from Argentina and that it is celebrated with a parade. Now, I'm not a bird person but I did enjoy the beautiful jewelry and logos that featured birds that represented the swallows (or even the Holy Spirit?). In fact, the logo reminded me of a charm I purchased, on a whim, this past Fall.
On November 1st, I was invited to the NC mountains to stay with a friend in her cozy cabin in Boone, NC when we decided to do a Halloween attraction at Tootsie's I mean Tweetsie (LOL!) Railroad (my brother won free tickets through the radio yet again!)...see the pictures shown below of the fun family attraction. It was great to have some time away and to spend that Saturday putting the finishing touches on Chapters 4 & 5 on my dissertation with such a beautiful view as my friend volunteered at the Applachian State football game. Before Allison had to go to work, we were able to take in the sights that morning and do a little shopping.
In a quaint jewelry shop at the foot of the mountains, I found a charm of a bird that made me think about the expression, "Hope is a thing of feathers" (or something like that; you can read more about the expression here) so I bought it for my locket. I inadvertently lost the charm just a few days later but the store graciously replaced it for free within a week by mailing it to me. It's fun to think back on this weekend getaway and to realize it was so shortly after Adam and I first started communicating with one another. Fast forward to this past weekend and seeing the exact same bird that was my charm being used as a logo representing the swallows. Whenever I see the bird image, other than thinking about the Holy Spirit filling us with hope, I also think of the scripture from Matthew that tells us to not worry seeing as God provides for the sparrows then surely he will provide for us. The charm in my locket is a nice reminder of that which indirectly leads me to Jeremiah 29:11 which is displayed on my personalized purse from Thirty-One by the way. Yesterday, during my day of travel, I had two gentlemen approach me in two different airports to talk about the meaning of the scripture....evangelization at it's finest eh? ;)
Anyhow, it's fascinating to think the swallows returned to the Mission today as we celebrate the feast day of St. Joseph. He is certainly someone I look up to as a model of parenting and am thankful for all the fathers out there who are involved with their children's lives!
Check out the pictures/video/website below to learn more about Mission San Juan Capistrano!
When I was younger, before I knew more about this earthly father of Jesus, I used to enjoy the fact that I attended Holy Family Elementary School and then St. Joseph's for 5th grade. 5th grade has always been my favorite year when I think back over my elementary/high school years. Was it because my favorite teacher, Ms. Bednar, taught us that year? Was it because we had more independence as older students? Perhaps it was due to being able to walk the two blocks down the "beer alley" to get to school from our house. Or maybe it was because we felt like we were our separate school since the principal was across town at Holy Family. Or I might have enjoyed it since it was two floors above my childhood church. I had grown up attending mass at St. Joe's from 2nd grade through 12th grade when not traveling to Schuylkill Haven to St. Ambrose. It was a small school with only 5th through 8th grades in it in one hallway. I have so many happy memories of being in that creaky tall building with both my twin and my older brother and wish we could have spent 6th through 8th grades there! Unfortunately, at the end of my 5th grade year, the school was deemed unsafe for use and the grades were split. 6th grade was sent back to Holy Family while 7th and 8th were shipped off to Cardinal Brennan High School.
Another reason I appreciate this day is because it is my aunt and godmother, Aunt Maureen's, feast day too. She belongs to the Sisters of St. Joseph order so March 19th signifies a special day for her as well.
I recently learned about another cool connection to today while in California. When shopping at Michael's the other week, Adam said that a clue about one of his surprises was on a display in the craft store. He led me over to the display and asked which one I liked. The display consisted of art projects and models that you could build of local missions. I had no idea what I was looking at that day. I did not know that in CA there are 21 missions that had been established. I later learned that 4th grade students spend a lot of time learning about these special places within Californian history. So there we were standing in the aisle at Michael's with Adam asking which one I might like to go to someday. I chose this one because of the distinctive domes.
That was when Adam told me he was taking me to the beautiful Mission San Juan Capistrano! Well, you can't tell me something like that as we're standing in a craft store and expect me to not want to build the model of the mission. ;) So, using a gift card from my "York Mom" who happens to be an awesome artist herself (go look at her beautiful work here) I purchased the materials we needed to make our own mission.
The packaging said a ten year old could put the model together in six hours or less. This did not prepare me for the hours of frustration and irritation I experienced as I worked to put the mission together over the course of a week. Somehow, eventually it all came together with Adam's help, but I made one big mistake. I put the domes on the wrong side. Oops. Let's just call this model created with love a mirror reflection of the mission instead. ;) Adam and I joked that we would have our picture taken at the mission and then print them out and put them in our model but we actually forgot to have our picture taken that day! Guess we will just have to go back to what they call the "Jewel of the Missions" another time!
What we did learn, during our brief visit to the beautiful mission, was that every year on The Feast Day of St. Joseph ~ March 19th, the swallows return to Mission San Juan Capistrano from Argentina and that it is celebrated with a parade. Now, I'm not a bird person but I did enjoy the beautiful jewelry and logos that featured birds that represented the swallows (or even the Holy Spirit?). In fact, the logo reminded me of a charm I purchased, on a whim, this past Fall.
On November 1st, I was invited to the NC mountains to stay with a friend in her cozy cabin in Boone, NC when we decided to do a Halloween attraction at Tootsie's I mean Tweetsie (LOL!) Railroad (my brother won free tickets through the radio yet again!)...see the pictures shown below of the fun family attraction. It was great to have some time away and to spend that Saturday putting the finishing touches on Chapters 4 & 5 on my dissertation with such a beautiful view as my friend volunteered at the Applachian State football game. Before Allison had to go to work, we were able to take in the sights that morning and do a little shopping.
In a quaint jewelry shop at the foot of the mountains, I found a charm of a bird that made me think about the expression, "Hope is a thing of feathers" (or something like that; you can read more about the expression here) so I bought it for my locket. I inadvertently lost the charm just a few days later but the store graciously replaced it for free within a week by mailing it to me. It's fun to think back on this weekend getaway and to realize it was so shortly after Adam and I first started communicating with one another. Fast forward to this past weekend and seeing the exact same bird that was my charm being used as a logo representing the swallows. Whenever I see the bird image, other than thinking about the Holy Spirit filling us with hope, I also think of the scripture from Matthew that tells us to not worry seeing as God provides for the sparrows then surely he will provide for us. The charm in my locket is a nice reminder of that which indirectly leads me to Jeremiah 29:11 which is displayed on my personalized purse from Thirty-One by the way. Yesterday, during my day of travel, I had two gentlemen approach me in two different airports to talk about the meaning of the scripture....evangelization at it's finest eh? ;)
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| The performers in this photo started dancing to and singing Michael Jackson's song, "Thriller", just as the train was about to depart. |
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| Allison is also a talented artist...check out her handiwork over the fireplace! |
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| What a view! |
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| My friend rents out her cabin so if you're interested, let me know, and I can put you in touch with her! |
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| Enjoying the (top of the) Ferris Wheel !! |
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| It's blurry but hopefully you can see the bird charm in the locket at the left. |
Check out the pictures/video/website below to learn more about Mission San Juan Capistrano!
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| This cross commemorated my trip to San Diego/time with Adam. I had purchased it Friday night before we went to the Mission on Sunday. I like how the cross charm resembles the Cross building you see in the right hand corner of the picture above this one. :) |
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| Here is the mission basilica; do you see the resemblance to our model we built? |
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| It was a full house during mass! |
http://www.missionsjc.com/ (a nice slideshow of pictures of the Mission and grounds with peaceful music in the background starts playing as soon as you click on this website)