Walking--or not

"My grandmother started walking five miles a day when she was sixty. She's ninety-seven now and we don't know where the hell she is!" ~Ellen DeGeneres~

This man, on the other hand, has been in the same spot, tying that same shoe, the last few times we've walked past him. If he could fix that lace, he might be able to get somewhere.

Infallible Sign

Joy is

the most infallible sign

of the presence of God.
Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

Began the day at a Monastery

Started out the day with mass at a Trappist Monastery, set in the middle of 4,000 acres of the most exquisitely beautiful and quiet land. I find it a peaceful refuge from the chaos of normal life. Our dear friend celebrated mass and, as usual, gave a very thoughtful homily. I especially enjoyed hearing that you can be a missionary, staying in one place, and people coming to you. Dear Husband was struck with the idea that Jesus was resurrected, body AND soul, which connected the Trinity with humanity. God wants to be a part of humanity---what a wonderful thought.

Bought a new book today: The Gravedigger's Daughter, by Joyce Carol Oates. She's been a favorite author of mine for nearly 40 years. Found it at the lovely independent bookstore AND it's a signed first edition. The release date will be the 30th! I love falling upon such great finds.

Memorial Day Holiday

I learned how to put a charcoal grill together today. Just in time for grilled vegies on Memorial Day. Did you know: this holiday was first observed on May 30, 1868 and was called Decoration Day. In May of 2000, President Bill Clinton sent out a memorandum:

"I hereby direct all executive departments and agencies,

in consultation with the White House Program

for the National Moment of Remembrance (Program),

to promote a "National Moment of Remembrance''

to occur at 3 p.m. (local time) on each Memorial Day."

During your backyard festivities, please remember all those who have died in the service of our nation and give thanks to those who have served or are serving in our military. Thanks Dad K, Dad R, Michael, Nathaniel, Jason! And others too numerous to mention but I thank you all.

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