Grateful
A Different Christmas
After much anticipation, Christmas arrived. Yesterday I kept myself busy cooking and baking and delivering goodies. I made my mom’s Christmas bread which she made every year. This year I was on my own. I asked her for help particularly to determine if the dough was the right consistency. It did turn out a little […]
Good Friendships
A friend of mine has been struggling with her health and work and life in general. She used to come out when a group of us got together, but she has been unable to for quite some time. But she has stayed in the group chat and always has funny things to share. I was happy […]
God’s Present
I have been trying to stay in a positive mindset over the past couple days even as I seem to be very emotional. I have decided to just let the tears flow and perhaps at some point they will go dry. I have been listening to Advent music while I make yummy treats. The lyrics […]
Brain Health
A beautiful friend Shannon Desilets posted this. When I read it, I realized that it explains what was happening to my poor body and brain during the past several years caring for my parents, especially as it became more and more difficult. I literally thought I was losing my mind. Even though I was praying, […]
Crying Day
Today was very emotional for me for many reasons. When I wake up early in the mornings, I start my prayers. This morning that included listening to an Advent podcast on the Hallow app. Over the past few weeks the focus has been on a book called, “A Severe Mercy”, by Sheldon Vanauken. It is […]
The Madrigals
Last night my sister and I attended the Madrigal Banquet and I have been pondering it all day. It was held at a castle nestled back against the foothills, which belonged to one of the founders of the city. It had many technologically advanced features for the time such as an elevator and a steam […]
Sharing Mom’s Memories
A few days ago I sent out Christmas cards and notes to everyone on my mom’s list. Honestly, I couldn’t remember exactly who I talked to after she died. So, I had to break the news to those who we only heard from once or twice a year now. Today I received a text from […]
Hot Cocoa Bombs
In the past, my daughter in law has made amazingly beautiful and delicious hot cocoa bombs. She wasn’t going to do it this year, so I thought I would give it a try. I did enlist her help, however. She came over this morning and showed me all her tricks. A few hours later, we […]
The Clock is Back
Almost 2 years ago, I was winding the wall clock that my parents purchased in Germany, and the spring broke. I felt terrible. My parents had taken the clock to the local repair shop in the past, so that is what I planned on doing too. When I called them, I was told there was […]
Cleansing
Today my parish made the Sacrament of Confession available almost all day. So I went. It’s always a bittersweet experience, but feels cleansing. Afterwards I went to Mass with my priest friend. I was happy to catch up with him a bit. Then I had my appointment with my counselor. She does a great job […]
