All In The Family

Me and my godson

Me with Belle (Courtney) and her older sister, Molly (who was in Godspell last year at this school)

L to R: Kelly, Jack, Ryan, Paige, Me, Courtney, Brendan, grandma. :)

Saturday Evening Blog Post--March and April

Elizabeth is doing a twofer this month--March and April. Here are mine: For April, The Easter Pics, and for March, the Wonder of the Guinness Cake (really, I can't link to this enough. )

For more, or to link your own favorite posts, go to Elizabeth's.

My birthday

Part One: A beautiful day for a symphony concert

A

At the Ohio Theater

The CSO warming up

 Part Two: Tiff and I at dinner in Gahanna

 Jeni's ice cream? I think so!

 

Easter

Bryan and Mel in St. Pat's courtyard before Mass

T

The altar. Sooo much better than the emptiness of Good Friday!

T

Flowers by the St. Joseph altar. Hydrangeas, lilacs, tulips...smelled wonderful!

A

After Mass

 

The Simple Woman's Daybook--March 15, 2010

Outside my window:
Snow is essentially GONE. YAY! A little rain, a little gray, but that's spring in Ohio. I'm seeing little flowers pop up their stems!

I am wearing: 

jeans, socks, an ocean blue top

I am thankful for:
My Lay Dominican chapter

I am reading: 

Master and Margarita (hope to finish this week)

From the kitchen:

Pasta tonight. Not sure what kind. 

The Guinness Cake is sitting on my counter, waiting to be devoured.

I am thinking:
That it was a good weekend and promises to be a good week!

I am creating:
Learning the music from Love Never Dies. Because I am a nerd like that. And working on voice lessons stuff. 

On my iPod:
Love Never Dies (I'm OBSESSED, I tell you!)

Toward rhythm and beauty: 

A menu, regular prayer times--like Fr. Blau told us yesterday, "we just have to be faithful. It doesn't have to be beautiful every time." 

To Live the Liturgy: 

Daily Mass (as often as possible), Magnificat, my Lent books. 

I am hoping and praying:
for my grandfather; for Meg; for Liz's mom. 

Around the House:
The vaccuming, the dishes. That's about it. 

One of my favorite things:

Spring!

A few plans for the week:

T: St. Patrick's Day Mass (at St. Pat's, appropriately!), and tea and food afterwards.

Th: Voice

 

A picture thought I am sharing: 

 

The Simple Woman's Daybook--March 8, 2010

 

Outside my window:
It is 55! Snow is melting! The windows are open! Spring is here!!!! (Yes, I am really excited)

I am wearing: 

a yellow 3/4 length sleeve spring sweater, jeans, gray socks

I am thankful for:
My New Book

I am reading: 

Midwives, Master and Margarita

From the kitchen:
Last night: sloppy joes (really good!)

Tonight: I think Margherita Pizza, or pasta in general. 

I've got Alaska burgers and carbonara on the menu this week as well. 

I am thinking:
How happy I am to see my friend, Spring.

I am creating:
Editing the short story. 

On my iPod:
Sarah McLachlin, Mirrorball

Toward rhythm and beauty: 

A menu, regular prayer times

To Live the Liturgy: 

Daily Mass (as often as possible), Magnificat, my Lent books. 

I am hoping and praying:
for a good week; for my grandfather

Around the House:
Did massive cleaning on Saturday--really vacuumed, mopped, etc. Now it's the little things--cleaning the bookshelves, dusting off the top of my dresser (which gets dirty in record time, thanks make-up)

One of my favorite things:

Spring!

A few plans for the week:

T: Senate Session

Th: Voice

F: Dinner and movie w/ my brother

Sat.: Hair cut

A picture thought I am sharing: 

 

pretty spring flowers!!!

The PERFECT blog post

 

The “Austen Hermeneutic”: Old Mass v New Mass

CATEGORY: Lighter fare, SESSIUNCULA — Fr. John Zuhlsdorf @ 5:08 pm

There is a fun post over at St. Louis Catholic:

If today’s faithful Catholic is represented by Elizabeth Bennet, bright, hopeful and coming of age, then the liturgical forms would have to be represented by Mr. Darcy and Mr. Wickham.

Mr. Wickham is immediately accessible, loves to talk—especially about how bad ol’ Darcy is—has some initial minor flash but soon proves to be tedious and unreliable.

Mr. Darcy at first glance looks stuffy and condescending, but proves over time to be noble, true, of high quality and charitable.

The ordinary and the extraordinary.

_____________

Yes, I actually thought this, and then typed it, and therefore I am a loser.  [No… people who can’t refer to Austen are the losers.]

P.S. Mrs. Bennet would represent Marek Bozek. Just sayin’.  [LOL]

The Simple Woman's Daybook--January 18, 2010

Outside My Window:: 

Almost dark, but the snow is almost gone! Yay!

I am wearing ::

A Talbot's tee, jeans. 

I am Thankful For::

Days off; a good clinic report

I am Reading:

Loot: The Battle Over the Stolen Treasures of the Ancient World; The Kalahari Typing School for Men.

From the Kitchen::

A lot this week, starting with the Irish Soda bread I'm about to make.

I am Thinking:
That I have had an excellent long weekend. 

I am Creating::
Good food

On my iPod::

U2's All That You Can't Leave Behind

Towards Rhythm and Beauty:
I've done a good job (so far) incorporating some of my New Year's goals, like keeping my apartment clearer, saying the Liturgy of the Hours, etc. Now I want to step it up a notch.

To Live the Liturgy:

Liturgy of the Hours, in the first Ordinary Time book. Back to green vestments.

I am Hoping and Praying:
For Barb, a friend of mine who died over the weekend (she was a truly wonderful woman who was kind to everyone she met).

Around the House:

After bread making, vaccuming and doing some more clearing off of the kitchen table. That, it seems, will always be piled with stuff.

One of My Favorite Things:

Long weekends

A Few Plans for the Rest of the Week:

Wednesday and Thursday: Voice lessons both days, to prep for an audition next Monday. 

   A Picture Thought  I'm Sharing:

From the Chihuly Exhibit I attended yesterday

 

 

Totally free

Today was one of the days where I like being single.
For the first time in a long time, I had the entire day free. No obligations, my parents are in Pittsburgh, so I have able to do whatever I wanted, all day. This is sort of unheard of.
So, I did the clips, got dressed, and then...my power went out. No idea why. But it didn't matter anyway, because I was going out.

My first stop was the Columbus Museum of Art. I have a membership and wanted to see the Chihuly exhibit. It was crowded--Sundays have a lot of family programming--but I was glad it was crowded. The museum is undergoing a big renovation project, so all there was to see were a few pieces from the permanent collection, and Chihuly. I love his glasswork so I enjoyed the exhibit, especially Mille Flore. 

After seeing the exihibit, I bought a Diet Coke at the cafe and did some writing exercises from Elizabeth Berg's book. Two of them involved an art museum, so those were the ones I (naturally) did. After doing that, and getting two books in the book shop (since I'm a member, I get 15% in there, yay!), I headed up to Easton.

It was raining, so I didn't think the outdoor shopping complex would be too crowded, and I was right. I stopped in Nordstrom to get some make-up I needed, then went to Talbots and Ann Taylor to see what was coming in for Spring. I'm glad I stopped at AT, because I got 40% off everything I bought in there. Heck yes! Very exciting.

After that, I treated myself to Fado's fish and chips, watched the Vikings slaughter the Cowboys, and did a few more writing exercises. Fado is a great place to write--I always feel inspired there.
After finished lunch/dinner, I headed home, to find the power back on.
It was GREAT being able to do precisely what I wanted. I could look at the art I wanted to see, eat where I wanted to eat, and shop without worrying about meeting anyone or holding up anyone else.
A very excellent Sunday.

The Simple Woman's Daybook--January 3, 2010

Outside My Window::

The sun is glorious, the sky is clear and bleached white. This, combined with the snow, makes it dazzling outside, but probably very cold!

I am Listening to::

Silence (CI's not in!)

I am wearing ::

My garnet hill nightgown, so I feel like Elizabeth Bennet

I am Thankful For::

* A wonderful Christmas season spent with family and friends, especially a chance to see my grandparents and Di and Susie;

* My new parish family

I am Reading:

Sailing the Wine-Dark Sea: While The Greeks Still Matter

From the Kitchen::

So many big plans--I got cookbooks for Christmas. I just need to go shopping! But definitely my favorite Texas Cornbread (if I make it, recipe will be up). I'd also like to try some muffins from my new cookbook.

I am Thinking:

That even though I had a wonderful vacation, I've sort of missed my job! (whether or not I will be able to convey this into a cheerful wakeup tomorrow remains to be seen)

I am Creating::

ORDER. My mom and I did a massive apartment purge during my week off, so now all that's left is to clean off my desk and dining table. Both of those are easier said than done, but I want to tackle them today so that I can start 2010 back at work with a clean home slate. 

On my iPod::

Loreena McKennit's An Ancient Muse.

Towards Rhythm and Beauty:

Per my new year's goals, I want to incorporate some things into my life, like working out and daily writing. So today I will be creating a schedule to attempt to balance all the things I have going on right now.

To Live the Liturgy:

Today's Epiphany, one of my favorite feasts. I love the songs and the image of the Wise Men bearing gifts to the Baby Jesus. 

I am Hoping and Praying:

:: for health and fitness, strength and grace to do His will. (stole this from Elizabeth, but it's good!)

Around the House:

After last week's purge, I have to vacuum the floors. And, as I said above, the kitchen table needs HELP. 

One of My Favorite Things:

Babies, especially Susie and Justin, whom I got to see last week.

A Few Plans for the Rest of the Week:

:"Back to life," as the song goes. That means:

--Work, in general, and daily Mass at St. Pat's

--Voice lessons on Thursdays (I've missed them!)

A Picture Thought  I'm Sharing:

Susie, tasting the Baby Einstein Animals. :)

Tidings of Comfort and Joy--Christmas Pictures

My tree

Our Lady of Grace at St. Pat's--her statue is in the gallery connecting the church proper and the parish activity building/offices/library.

The Sanctuary--it's it beautiful? And check out the altar boy in his old-school digs on the left. I love the altar boys here. They're so solemn and they all do a great job.

Wizard of Oz Pez Dispensers! I didn't even know these existed! 

This, That, and the Other

x

--Stitch is topping this post, because he can.

--It's been raining almost all day here. At least I can break out the Hunter boots when I traipse out tonight for voice. (Mine are violet, just like Bella's in Twilight. And no, I haven't seen New Moon. It's my least favorite book, so I'll probably just wait until it's out on DVD. And my December is insane. More on that below.)

--Voice: Working on some random pieces. I have another audition coming up, for Gallery Player's "Company" (this is the group I did Parade with last winter). I really, really want to do this show because there is a FANTASTIC Alto part. Really, honest to God contralto. Problem? The woman is thirty-something. Do I look 30 something? Not. So I'm counting on some eyeliner, dark clothes and my voice to make me look 30. I'm hoping we can nail down a song tonight, too.

--Crazy December? Here's what's on tap: Tomorrow night, Cap's Christmas Fest with Melanie. I haven't been since...oh....2004? 2005? When I helped the SAI chapter girls usher it. This will be the first time I've gone as a spectator--I've usually been in it, or working it. Not this time. I'm watching and singing along with the audience during carols. Can't wait to see how my old Purple Robe is holding up. Dinner with the friends on Dec. 11, Tiffany's Christmas Concert Dec. 12, Messiah rehearsals Dec. 13 and 18, and performance in Hilliard on the 20th. That doesn't count regular Mass stuff, work stuff, any other "stuff" that might pop up.

--These books rock my world. As I am a Jane addict, I got both Jane books. Why they do not offer ALL Jane books is a mystery to me. Because they should. And I would buy them. (duh.)

--How's your Advent going so far? Enjoying it? At my parish we're using the Latin antiphon for the entrance, and for the psalm. Waaaay cool. I still have to figure out how to read the Latin chant music. It's not a normal 5 staff pattern.

--My tree is up. A few ornaments are still in storage at my parents', so it looks a wee bit bare right now. 'Twill be righted later.

The Simple Woman's Daybook--November 23, 2009

Outside My Window ...

It's a gray day! But I got to wear my fun new navy peacoat, so that made it better. 

***

I am listening to...

My iTunes mix CD—Eagles, REM, Credence Clearwater Revival…good stuff.

***

To Live the Liturgy...

Mass as often as I can; Magnificat; Rosary

***

To Fit and Happy...

Gym. Sigh. And my pilates video.

***

I am thankful for...

A short week!

***

I am pondering ...

My next MA assignment for Biblical studies—outline of the Old Testament

***

From the kitchen ...

Pasta. Again. And making biscotti for Turkey day!

***

I am wearing ...

Gray pants; heater blue turtleneck; gray socks

***

I am creating ...

Christmas cards. Well  not creating them. Writing them.

***

On my iPod...

more "Messiah" and voice lesson music.

***

I am thinking...

That I am ready for some Turkey!

***

Around the House

Vacuuming, getting the table under control

.***

I am reading ...

Catherine of Sienna and The King's Good Servant, But God's First.

***

I am hoping and praying ...

for my grandpa.

***

On Keeping Home ...

Wrapping presents; digging out Christmas decorations.

***

One of my favorite things ...

singing

***

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week:

Th: Happy Thanksgiving!

F: Dinner and movie with siblings

Sun: First Sunday of Advent! Messiah rehearsal

For more daybooks, go visit Peggy!

1,000 words

This really sums up my feeling toward the morning:

The Simple Woman's Daybook--November 9, 2009

Outside My Window ...

It's dark now, but it was a beautiful late fall day--highs in the 60s, and a pale blue sky. Fantastic.

***

I am listening to...

Handel's "Messiah" (Christmas section)

***

To Live the Liturgy...

Magnificat, Rosary, and Signs of Life, Scott Hahn's new book.

***

To Fit and Happy...

Gym and ballet this week. I get Wednesday off, so there is no reason gym and/or ballet should not happen.

***

I am thankful for...

short weeks!

***

I am pondering ...

tomorrow's Target list.

***

From the kitchen ...

Not sure. Lots of pasta/soup this week, I think. Maybe some meat sauce making on W.

I am wearing ...

Pitt sweatpants, a J.Jill camisole (heading to bed soon)

***

I am creating ...

music

***

On my iPod...

more "Messiah" and voice lesson music.

***

I am thinking...

that I can't wait for Wednesday

***

Around the House

Cleaning which =getting stuff off the floor!

.***

I am reading ...

See above; also The Looking Glass, and Catherine of Sienna. Also read: A Daughter's Love: Thomas More and His Dearest Meg yesterday. Soooo good.  (Of course this ALSO led to watching A Man for All Seasons, which is NEVER a bad thing.)

***

I am hoping and praying ...

for my grandpa.

***

On Keeping Home ...

Getting ready for the holidays--card writing, cleaning, etc., etc.

***

One of my favorite things ...

singing with talented people

***

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week:

T: Pampered Chef Party!

W: Voice at 2:00, gym/ballet, DAY OFF!

Th: CF clinic @ 3:30

Sat: Music Man auditions!

Sunday: Messiah rehearsal; Faith Sharing group

A picture thought I am sharing:

Corner of State and Third Street, Downtown Columbus, Fall (it was taken this year, ignore the '07 thing)

Taking the veil

I talk about the idea of veiling for Mass here.

A lot of threads

Recently I haven't been writing as much because I've been doing a lot of thinking. (I know, me, thinking, this is a shocking thing.)

There are so many things I want to finish--the book(s), my MA. I want to have order in my apartment and in life in general. I want to have a fruitful spiritual life. I want to do my job well, I want to be a good friend. There are lots of things I want. Of course a lot of these things also benefit others.

How do I make time for all of this?

I've been reading various blogs and websites, and I think I have a general idea. My time needs to be spent doing things that really contribute to my life goals--writing, music, prayer, study, being with my friends and family. Everything else is sort of....second. It's not that it's not important, it's just not as important.

The Simple Woman's Daybook--October 19, 2009

Outside My Window ...

Sunny and the leaves are pretty close to peak color. They are fantastic!!!

***

I am listening to...

Loreena McKennit, "The Book of Secrets" (I'm ADDICTED, I tell you. Addicted.)

***

To Live the Liturgy...

Rosary, Magnificat, Bible reading, classes, and re-reading Rediscovering Catholicism for my Faith Sharing Group. I also got my Advent companion from Magnificat today. Can you believe in about a month, it will be the first week of Advent?!

***

To Fit and Happy...

Gym and ballet this week. If I achieve ONE day of gym, and ballet class, I will be happy.

***

I am thankful for...

beautiful fall days.

***

I am pondering ...

the rest of the day's schedule

***

From the kitchen ...

Made orzo pasta with saffron and shrimp last night, and had the leftovers for lunch. So probably just soup and sandwich for dinner. I'm sort of "eating down the kitchen" this week.

I am wearing ...

Brown tights, a heather khaki skirt from J. Jill, and a cashmere sweater from Talbots (in this fantastic color called "raven", it's a great blue. I want everything they have in this color, but I'm restraining myself.)

***

I am creating ...

The memoir; music (voice lesson practicing)

***

On my iPod...

The "random" Setting. :) (Or shuffle. Whatever)

***

I am thinking...

that it's shaping up to be a good week.

***

Around the House

More clearing of the kitchen table.

.***

I am reading ...

W.H. Auden's poems; The Amish Cook's Baking Book. (It is awesome. Believe me.)

***

I am hoping and praying ...

for friends who are undergoing cancer treatments.

***

On Keeping Home ...

these candles look awesome. (keeping this link because they are awesome)

***

One of my favorite things ...

baking

***

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week:

Possibly Opera Columbus this weekend--they're doing Pagliacci. 

W: Ballet

Th: Voice

A picture thought I am sharing:

Jerome Bettis and Mario at the Steelers game yesterday. Two of my favorite sports people.

Swan Lake is a-comin'!

Hey all Columbus folks--get yourself some tickets to Swan Lake, ASAP.
It promises to be an excellent show! So come on out! It's only here for ONE weekend, Oct. 16-18, and then it goes to Cincy.
You don't want to miss it. Really.

BalletMet dancer Carrie West (also in picture above)

Photo credits: BalletMet

We're back!

Hockey season starts tonight.
Bring it on, Pens. :)
And, just to recap last season--the names on the cup. 
'Tis sweet.