Today at CPE during supervision, (a time shared individually with each student and the supervisor to talk about how things are going) Supa told me that I have an impishness about me; like a little mischieviousness just on the surface, ready to come out. It was said in a positive manner. I laughed.
My pal RuthRe posted about some news. Go over and check it out! WOOT!
I'm really digging this song, "Little Is Much" by downhere. If you have a MySpace page you can go to downhere's profile and listen. It's really got a good message.
With all the snow and stuff here in The Midwest, some fellow seminarians and I went and played in the snow the other day. It was incredibly fun, even though I got nailed in the side of the head with a snowball. Fortunately, my hood was up..
Along those lines-Apples to Apples is one of THE MOST FUN games EVER! ha. Thanks Erik.
My mom is supposed to have surgery on Wednesday, March 14th. She's having a radical cystectomy, which is a complete hysterectomy and bladder removal. They expect the surgery to last 4-6 hours if nothing goes wrong. I plan to miss my class that day and be with my family. She's supposed to be in the hospital for about a week, provided no complications arise. Cancer sucks.
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Saturday, February 24, 2007
Oh, the weather outside is frightful...
So, last night I was coming back to SeminaryTown from my day of working at the hospital for CPE. It was raining in CPETown, but the farther north I came, the more snow I started to see... By the time I got to SeminaryTown, I was slightly afraid because I couldn't really see due to the snow/rain on my windshield, the lights from all the cars, and the fact that there aren't little reflectors embedded in the road. But, I made it back here in one piece. The snow wasn't even really accumulating last night.
This morning I woke up and looked out my window. It was raining and snowing some. But, really, it didn't look that bad. I talked to my sister in law for a while, and even though I needed to go get something today, I thought that I would be fine with waiting because the weather looked like it was going to clear up.
Boy was I wrong!
After I finished talking with my sister-in-law, I got online and did some stuff. A few hours later, I looked outside and saw a whole bunch of snow everywhere! And the wind is blowing it all around, too. But, I needed to go get my stuff today, so I went to my car, spent about twenty minutes scraping the windows, and I took off. I drove very slowly, and made it. The roads aren't very good though. On my way back, I was almost to the seminary and my little car started slipping, I think. I was going really slow, and I didn't want to hammer down on my accelerator because that would make the RPMs go up and put the engine in peril... So, I just was patient and let 4x4 vehicles pass me like no other. I made it back, safe and sound. Yeehaw. But, it's still snowing, and we got an email from the "RA" who said that the power is expected to go off tonight. Maybe we'll have a party or something in the lounge! ha.. I doubt it, but who knows.... Stay warm out there.
This morning I woke up and looked out my window. It was raining and snowing some. But, really, it didn't look that bad. I talked to my sister in law for a while, and even though I needed to go get something today, I thought that I would be fine with waiting because the weather looked like it was going to clear up.
Boy was I wrong!
After I finished talking with my sister-in-law, I got online and did some stuff. A few hours later, I looked outside and saw a whole bunch of snow everywhere! And the wind is blowing it all around, too. But, I needed to go get my stuff today, so I went to my car, spent about twenty minutes scraping the windows, and I took off. I drove very slowly, and made it. The roads aren't very good though. On my way back, I was almost to the seminary and my little car started slipping, I think. I was going really slow, and I didn't want to hammer down on my accelerator because that would make the RPMs go up and put the engine in peril... So, I just was patient and let 4x4 vehicles pass me like no other. I made it back, safe and sound. Yeehaw. But, it's still snowing, and we got an email from the "RA" who said that the power is expected to go off tonight. Maybe we'll have a party or something in the lounge! ha.. I doubt it, but who knows.... Stay warm out there.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Wading out of the Deep.
Ok, so my last post was kind of...hmmm...I don't really know how to describe it. The news I broke was sad, but I tried to offer hope... So, I don't know. But, I just thought that perhaps I should post a new something to help wade up from out of the deep waters. I don't want to do something completely carefree because to me that seems a little disrespectful, so here is the compromise. I'm analyzing myself and my last post. A little less downery-ish, and so this post can serve as a bridge to more lighthearted posts. Now I'm all thinking of that song, "Like a Bridge Over Troubled Water." Good song. I like it, anyway. But then again, I like Weird Al, too...
I digress. Forgive my wandering mind.
Today, CPE Supervisor (From here on out we shall come him "Supa") was sick. I was kinda bummed about that. He's a cool guy and being sick sucks, so... (BTW, I got special permission from the Bishop to say "sucks" so it's all good). (Actually, that's a lie. I just thought it was funny). But anyway, with Supa being gone, that makes two weeks where I've not had Supervision meetings. Last Tuesday they called and said "Don't come. The weather is too bad." So, I turned around and came back. Fortunately, I'd only been on the road for a few miles. Anyway, I've only really had one supervision meeting so far, and I like it, despite the wee bit of uncomfort I feel talking about what is going on in CPE, and my glaring ineptitude... :) Just messing. It's not glaring ineptitude; just moderate ineptitude...
Anyway, I suppose I just have a lot on my mind right now. That is why I like Supervision. Supa seems to have the art of pastoral care down pat, and talking with him doesn't "seem" like pastoral care, but I get the odd and eerie feeling afterwards that that is the point of supervision. I don't know... Maybe my fall this morning scrambled my last couple of brain cells.
Oh, I didn't tell you about "THE FALL?" Hmm. Long story short: Trish runs late, trish runs down dorm stairs, trish runs down to stairs outside to take her down to parking lot, trish starts running toward car, trish doesn't see ice, trish's legs fly out from under her in comedic fashion until she comes crunching down on her right side. Trish is very happy that she is no longer a cussing woman or the whole seminary community would have been awoken by an echoing, non-pastoral four letter word, and trish gets her wits about her after laying/sitting on the frozen ground for a moment until the pain lessens to a more manageable degree.
I'm always so cautious around ice and snow... The ONE freakin' time I'm not... I gotta go to bed.
I digress. Forgive my wandering mind.
Today, CPE Supervisor (From here on out we shall come him "Supa") was sick. I was kinda bummed about that. He's a cool guy and being sick sucks, so... (BTW, I got special permission from the Bishop to say "sucks" so it's all good). (Actually, that's a lie. I just thought it was funny). But anyway, with Supa being gone, that makes two weeks where I've not had Supervision meetings. Last Tuesday they called and said "Don't come. The weather is too bad." So, I turned around and came back. Fortunately, I'd only been on the road for a few miles. Anyway, I've only really had one supervision meeting so far, and I like it, despite the wee bit of uncomfort I feel talking about what is going on in CPE, and my glaring ineptitude... :) Just messing. It's not glaring ineptitude; just moderate ineptitude...
Anyway, I suppose I just have a lot on my mind right now. That is why I like Supervision. Supa seems to have the art of pastoral care down pat, and talking with him doesn't "seem" like pastoral care, but I get the odd and eerie feeling afterwards that that is the point of supervision. I don't know... Maybe my fall this morning scrambled my last couple of brain cells.
Oh, I didn't tell you about "THE FALL?" Hmm. Long story short: Trish runs late, trish runs down dorm stairs, trish runs down to stairs outside to take her down to parking lot, trish starts running toward car, trish doesn't see ice, trish's legs fly out from under her in comedic fashion until she comes crunching down on her right side. Trish is very happy that she is no longer a cussing woman or the whole seminary community would have been awoken by an echoing, non-pastoral four letter word, and trish gets her wits about her after laying/sitting on the frozen ground for a moment until the pain lessens to a more manageable degree.
I'm always so cautious around ice and snow... The ONE freakin' time I'm not... I gotta go to bed.
Sunday, February 18, 2007
Harsh Reality.
My younger sister called me today. She took Ma to worship this morning. I asked YS how it went. She told me it was fine, but that a lot of people died this week in my home area. One man had been fighting cancer for a good long while. We'd been praying for him. He was not an old man, but wasn't a young man, either. I still feel for his family and friends. We're social people, accustomed to physical interaction, or at least the possibility of physical interaction. When that ability is gone, we grieve. We grieve for the opportunities we've missed out on, as well as for the love that was shared. Cancer is a frightening and thieving thing. It tries to steal so much from so many people: Good health, joy, the ability to think, and a multitude of other things. I find it sad that so often people do lose so much to cancer. Near the end, so many people are in so much misery that they welcome death, and the nearness of God's promises in Christ Jesus. We miss our loved ones, but we can continue with hope, knowing and believing in the truth and love of our risen Savior.
The other three people who died this week were teenagers. Two were students of my old high school, and one went to a neighboring high school. It was a car accident that took their lives. From news accounts and what I've heard, four of them were in the car while the roads were still perilous from the recent snow the area had received. A drift on the pavement caused them to lose control, hit another vehicle, and end up in a ditch. I've not heard how the person(s) in the other vehicle faired. I just know that three of the four kids in the one car died and one is in critical condition. I write all of this with sorrow in my heart; for these kids and the lives they lost, for their parents and families who have to face the agony of losing flesh of their flesh, for the friends and peers who all too often do not realize the fragility of humanity-and when they do see it, they are not prepared to deal with it (as none of us really are), and for the community as a whole, who yet again are called to muster strength, compassion, and empathy for those who are hurting.
My community is not a stranger to losing teenagers because of car crashes. The whole wider area has lost approximately twenty teens in the past three years. Even numbers of my own friends have died because of car accidents; one even, was a very good friend. And it saddens me to think that all these kids are having to face the loss of not one, but two classmates, and another friend of theirs, all at the same time. That pain is just so difficult. My prayers and thoughts go out to this community that is so near to my heart. I ask that you might offer a few words as well. It is my prayer that God would give them the ability to be weak at a time when many expect them to be strong. There is no shame in grief. This is a hard thing to deal with; perhaps one of the hardest things-to lose a friend, classmate, or peer. Our God of all consolation is with them; cries with them; mourns with them. But with Christ, there is always hope. May we all embrace that hope in the situations of our lives-when we can; in our own time. Prayers and Peace.
The other three people who died this week were teenagers. Two were students of my old high school, and one went to a neighboring high school. It was a car accident that took their lives. From news accounts and what I've heard, four of them were in the car while the roads were still perilous from the recent snow the area had received. A drift on the pavement caused them to lose control, hit another vehicle, and end up in a ditch. I've not heard how the person(s) in the other vehicle faired. I just know that three of the four kids in the one car died and one is in critical condition. I write all of this with sorrow in my heart; for these kids and the lives they lost, for their parents and families who have to face the agony of losing flesh of their flesh, for the friends and peers who all too often do not realize the fragility of humanity-and when they do see it, they are not prepared to deal with it (as none of us really are), and for the community as a whole, who yet again are called to muster strength, compassion, and empathy for those who are hurting.
My community is not a stranger to losing teenagers because of car crashes. The whole wider area has lost approximately twenty teens in the past three years. Even numbers of my own friends have died because of car accidents; one even, was a very good friend. And it saddens me to think that all these kids are having to face the loss of not one, but two classmates, and another friend of theirs, all at the same time. That pain is just so difficult. My prayers and thoughts go out to this community that is so near to my heart. I ask that you might offer a few words as well. It is my prayer that God would give them the ability to be weak at a time when many expect them to be strong. There is no shame in grief. This is a hard thing to deal with; perhaps one of the hardest things-to lose a friend, classmate, or peer. Our God of all consolation is with them; cries with them; mourns with them. But with Christ, there is always hope. May we all embrace that hope in the situations of our lives-when we can; in our own time. Prayers and Peace.
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Who Knew?
Site Meter is an interesting thing. I have discovered that many people who do not know me or about my blog have found my blog by doing some sort of search for the musical piece, "A walk in the Black Forest" by Horst Jankowski. I didn't know that that song was so popular. I blogged a good long while ago about this song because I was reminiscing or something. I could find the post and link to it, but I'm too lazy. Forgive me.
In other news, today is Valentine's Day. Woopidy-Doo! Not. I've never been a fan of this holiday, except for the fact that I can go to the store tomorrow and buy a big box of chocolates in a heart shape for MYSELF at a discount! Yay! Although I won't. But, the possibility is there, nonetheless. And now, I must go because I need to write a verbatim. See ya later.
In other news, today is Valentine's Day. Woopidy-Doo! Not. I've never been a fan of this holiday, except for the fact that I can go to the store tomorrow and buy a big box of chocolates in a heart shape for MYSELF at a discount! Yay! Although I won't. But, the possibility is there, nonetheless. And now, I must go because I need to write a verbatim. See ya later.
Monday, February 12, 2007
I'mmmm BAAA-AAACK...
Well, I went home this weekend. I left from CPETown because I was there and it's closer to home. When I say "home," I mean Sis and BiL's house, because their house is more fun. We had tostadas on Friday night. They were AWESOME!!!! Yeah, I love 'em. Then Saturday night, we had my absolute favorite meal: Roast, (in the oven, done medium rare) homemade mashed taters and dark brown gravy, and a chocolate dessert which YS made. That was a family dinner of sorts, and it was good.
I also went shopping this weekend and got some groceries and other things I need. I found lots of really good deals, and I'm glad that I'm stocked up now.
On the way back to Seminary last night though, it started snowing. It wasn't too bad when I passed the exit to go to CPETown. I briefly thought about going to the CPE House so I wouldn't have to go another hour and change to get to seminary. I didn't. BIG MISTAKE. About 20 minutes later, the snow started coming down harder. I had to slow down a great deal and I couldn't see the lines on the road. I was behind a bunch of people and we were creeping along at about 35 mph. I looked in the rearview and saw a cop with his lights flashing coming up behind our caravan. When I got up further, I saw a whole bunch of cop cars and other emergency vehicles on the side of the road. I saw two cars that had been involved in an accident. I hope they weren't hurt too badly.
Shortly after this point, I was almost alone on the road, save for a semi who was ahead of me and one car behind me. The car got off, and then I was just really hoping the semi would keep forging ahead to SeminaryTown. Unfortunately, the semi pulled off at one of the bigger towns about 30 miles south of SeminaryTown. So, I thought, "I'll just have to go forth on my own." But, with no one making tracks for me to follow, I couldn't see where to go. About two miles later, I decided to get off at the last exit for that bigger town. I called Sis and BiL and asked their opinion and they resounded with me and I had to rent a hotel room for the night. I was bummed, but I really don't think I could have made it all the way back. And I'd rather spend the 50 bucks on a hotel room than a tow truck. So, c'est la vie.. Anyway, that's the generalization of my weekend. Maybe I'll tell a more in depth story later. Who knows. Later.
I also went shopping this weekend and got some groceries and other things I need. I found lots of really good deals, and I'm glad that I'm stocked up now.
On the way back to Seminary last night though, it started snowing. It wasn't too bad when I passed the exit to go to CPETown. I briefly thought about going to the CPE House so I wouldn't have to go another hour and change to get to seminary. I didn't. BIG MISTAKE. About 20 minutes later, the snow started coming down harder. I had to slow down a great deal and I couldn't see the lines on the road. I was behind a bunch of people and we were creeping along at about 35 mph. I looked in the rearview and saw a cop with his lights flashing coming up behind our caravan. When I got up further, I saw a whole bunch of cop cars and other emergency vehicles on the side of the road. I saw two cars that had been involved in an accident. I hope they weren't hurt too badly.
Shortly after this point, I was almost alone on the road, save for a semi who was ahead of me and one car behind me. The car got off, and then I was just really hoping the semi would keep forging ahead to SeminaryTown. Unfortunately, the semi pulled off at one of the bigger towns about 30 miles south of SeminaryTown. So, I thought, "I'll just have to go forth on my own." But, with no one making tracks for me to follow, I couldn't see where to go. About two miles later, I decided to get off at the last exit for that bigger town. I called Sis and BiL and asked their opinion and they resounded with me and I had to rent a hotel room for the night. I was bummed, but I really don't think I could have made it all the way back. And I'd rather spend the 50 bucks on a hotel room than a tow truck. So, c'est la vie.. Anyway, that's the generalization of my weekend. Maybe I'll tell a more in depth story later. Who knows. Later.
A Meme
You
Can
Only
Type
One
Word
1. Where is your cell phone? desk
2. Your boyfriend/girlfriend? Potential
3. Your hair? short
4. Your grandma? cute
5. Your father? gone
6. Your favorite item? chocolate
7. Your dream last night? weird
8. Your favorite drink? caffeinated
9. Your dream car? Focus
10. The room you are in? Dorm
11. Your ex? prison
12. Your fear? failure
13. What do you want to be in 10 years? fulfilled
14. Who did you hang out with last night? Sibs
15. What you're not? stimulated
16. Muffins? Type? chocolate
17. One of your wish list items? cards
19. The last thing you did? yawned
20. What are you wearing? orange!
22. Your favorite book? Bible
23. The last thing you ate? Fig
24. Your life? interesting
25. Your mood? tired
26. Your friends? scattered
27. What are you thinking about right now? food
28. Your car? dirty
29. What are you doing at the moment? contemplating
30. Your summer? busy!
31. Your relationship status? Liked
32. What is on your tv? dust
33. When is the last time you laughed? yesterday
34. Last time you cried? recently
Can
Only
Type
One
Word
1. Where is your cell phone? desk
2. Your boyfriend/girlfriend? Potential
3. Your hair? short
4. Your grandma? cute
5. Your father? gone
6. Your favorite item? chocolate
7. Your dream last night? weird
8. Your favorite drink? caffeinated
9. Your dream car? Focus
10. The room you are in? Dorm
11. Your ex? prison
12. Your fear? failure
13. What do you want to be in 10 years? fulfilled
14. Who did you hang out with last night? Sibs
15. What you're not? stimulated
16. Muffins? Type? chocolate
17. One of your wish list items? cards
19. The last thing you did? yawned
20. What are you wearing? orange!
22. Your favorite book? Bible
23. The last thing you ate? Fig
24. Your life? interesting
25. Your mood? tired
26. Your friends? scattered
27. What are you thinking about right now? food
28. Your car? dirty
29. What are you doing at the moment? contemplating
30. Your summer? busy!
31. Your relationship status? Liked
32. What is on your tv? dust
33. When is the last time you laughed? yesterday
34. Last time you cried? recently
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Random Ramblings...
Today, I got to leave the hospital early on account of the weather. I thought on the way home that I should have stayed because the roads weren't THAT bad... But, I was on the state's roadway conditions website tonight, and they said the road on which I travel was mostly/completely covered. Considering I don't know many people up here who could come drag me out of a ditch, I took up the supervisor's suggestion and hit the road to get back here.
Then I took a nap.
When I woke up, I sat around for a while, checking my email and reading some stuff. Although, not the stuff I SHOULD be reading. I really don't want to do that whole "not reading the material" routine like I did in college. I really do want to learn this stuff, and not just pass the tests. I also called my mom, and I also talked to YS.
After reading and yakking on the phone, I went downstairs because I was suffering from some cabin fever. I drew a picture on a friend's dry erase board, talked to her for a few minutes, and headed to the kitchen. I have thoroughly enjoyed sharing meals with others. It's a wonderful practice that the people in this place do. I'm grateful.
But, I am very excited to be going home this weekend. I miss Sis, BiL, Howard, YS, and pretty much everyone. I haven't been terribly homesick for a little while, and I'm just hoping that going home doesn't undo all the good feelings I'm having about this place.
Ok, now I'm going. Have a wonderful day, and stay warm!
Then I took a nap.
When I woke up, I sat around for a while, checking my email and reading some stuff. Although, not the stuff I SHOULD be reading. I really don't want to do that whole "not reading the material" routine like I did in college. I really do want to learn this stuff, and not just pass the tests. I also called my mom, and I also talked to YS.
After reading and yakking on the phone, I went downstairs because I was suffering from some cabin fever. I drew a picture on a friend's dry erase board, talked to her for a few minutes, and headed to the kitchen. I have thoroughly enjoyed sharing meals with others. It's a wonderful practice that the people in this place do. I'm grateful.
But, I am very excited to be going home this weekend. I miss Sis, BiL, Howard, YS, and pretty much everyone. I haven't been terribly homesick for a little while, and I'm just hoping that going home doesn't undo all the good feelings I'm having about this place.
Ok, now I'm going. Have a wonderful day, and stay warm!
Monday, February 05, 2007
Holey Socks!
Tonight at dinner, we had appetizers of sorts... And when someone calls salsa "death sauce," it would be a good idea to take it in severe moderation! Woah!
Saturday, February 03, 2007
Week 1 recap...
Well, week one of Seminary study is over. I'm only in one class, but I firmly believe that is a good thing. CPE has been very interesting so far, and I'm feeling better about that, too.
My one class here is a church history class. The teacher seems to be pretty cool, so that's a plus. Pretty much everyone I've met has just been phenomenally awesome. I'm feeling less homesick, and that, too, has me feeling more optimistic. Because I'm feeling more at ease, I'm allowing myself to go home next weekend. I miss "Howard," and Sis and Bil, and pretty much everyone. And Sis let me pick out the menu for the weekend, so I'm pumped! Tostadas, Roast, and Beef Stroganoff! Yeehaw! Three of my favorite foods.
But to be perfectly honest, another reason I'm going home is because my sister in law and other nephew are coming up and we're meeting with someone about my mother's care. She's not doing well, and we are thinking that her care is going to have to involve others pretty quick. The intravescular chemo she had didn't kill her cancer, and they've decided to do "Big Surgery." So while that sucks big time, it has to be done. There are a several things to do before that happens, though. So, I think it is important that I be there for that meeting because I am the one who knows the most about her care and situation. I am usually pretty good with dates, so I know at least the approximate times of her other problems and procedures. Also, I was the one who had been driving her to all of her appointments for the past year or so. And the fact that I was the last to leave the nest put me in the position of being around her and seeing what was going on more than my other siblings. My other siblings have stepped in beautifully in my absence, but I really think that it would be a good idea for me to continue being involved in her care because it can offer some continuity, instead of me knowing her care up to now and someone else knowing from x time to x time, and so on and so forth. So, that is another reason I'm going home.
I suddenly feel like I'm writing a persuasive paper! ha.
Anyway, things are going pretty well. Like I said, I'm meeting great people, and I'm optimistic. Except my soup tonight is not a flavor I like. Bummer.
My one class here is a church history class. The teacher seems to be pretty cool, so that's a plus. Pretty much everyone I've met has just been phenomenally awesome. I'm feeling less homesick, and that, too, has me feeling more optimistic. Because I'm feeling more at ease, I'm allowing myself to go home next weekend. I miss "Howard," and Sis and Bil, and pretty much everyone. And Sis let me pick out the menu for the weekend, so I'm pumped! Tostadas, Roast, and Beef Stroganoff! Yeehaw! Three of my favorite foods.
But to be perfectly honest, another reason I'm going home is because my sister in law and other nephew are coming up and we're meeting with someone about my mother's care. She's not doing well, and we are thinking that her care is going to have to involve others pretty quick. The intravescular chemo she had didn't kill her cancer, and they've decided to do "Big Surgery." So while that sucks big time, it has to be done. There are a several things to do before that happens, though. So, I think it is important that I be there for that meeting because I am the one who knows the most about her care and situation. I am usually pretty good with dates, so I know at least the approximate times of her other problems and procedures. Also, I was the one who had been driving her to all of her appointments for the past year or so. And the fact that I was the last to leave the nest put me in the position of being around her and seeing what was going on more than my other siblings. My other siblings have stepped in beautifully in my absence, but I really think that it would be a good idea for me to continue being involved in her care because it can offer some continuity, instead of me knowing her care up to now and someone else knowing from x time to x time, and so on and so forth. So, that is another reason I'm going home.
I suddenly feel like I'm writing a persuasive paper! ha.
Anyway, things are going pretty well. Like I said, I'm meeting great people, and I'm optimistic. Except my soup tonight is not a flavor I like. Bummer.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Unexpected Blessings.
First off, let me reiterate that I am a hard-core procrastinator. It's a habit I would like to break, but haven't been able to just yet. But sometimes, good things happen to those who procrastinate (I know it's wait, but for the sake of this post, humor me).
I went to chapel this morning at Seminary. It's Wednesday, so we had communion. I'm a big fan of communion. After chapel, I was going back to my room to do some stuff, but I passed by the youth director's office and one of my new friends was in there by herself, so I said, "Hi, 'Michelle.'" 'Michelle' is a pseudonym, btw. So, we were talking for a few minutes and she was telling me some stuff I hadn't heard before. Like, how they do announcements in the refectory after chapel every day. And we were chatting about some other things and all of a sudden, I heard the announcer in the refectory say, "We have some new students..." And 'Michelle' said, "Oh, look! That's you! You better get out there." But I was like, "Are you kidding!" but then the announcer said, "Trish NewStudent is joining us this semester. Is she here?" And some people who could see me in the hallway said, "Yes, she's here! Come on out!" So I'm sure I turned bright red, (as per usual when I am unexpectedly made the center of attention) and walked out of the hallway into the refectory. I felt like a football player who was going out onto the field! haha. But they clapped and I felt like a dork (But that's ok, cuz I AM a dork. I hold this title with pride). And then they announced another new student and some students that would be joining us later in the semester, I believe. And after all that, I went to my room and did the stuff I'd been planning to do before I sidetracked myself. It was nice to have the students welcome me to the community, I was just unprepared. Thus, the turning beet red. I am laughing about it though. I'm not traumatized or embarrassed or anything...
So, anyway... After I did what I needed to do in my room, I went and put some much delayed thank you letters into the mail for the various people/organizations who have really supported me and wished me well as I begin this new adventure. And I planned to go buy my textbooks after I did that, because I should have done that earlier. So, I went to the bookstore and found the books I needed to buy, (except for one that they are out of) and the woman working behind the counter asked if I'd like her to order it for me. I said yes, paid, and then left the store. BUT, on my way out, I saw a man standing kind of in the foyer, and so I said "Hi." He started talking, and so I stayed and we conversed for a few minutes and he said, "Every year, I come and buy a student's textbooks. Can I buy yours?" !!!! WOAH! So, he said, "Come on, let's go back in." And so, we went in, and re-did the sale and I can't believe it. Wow. What a blessing and affirmation. God just really has a way of surprising me sometimes. It's a reminder that God is good, all the time.
I went to chapel this morning at Seminary. It's Wednesday, so we had communion. I'm a big fan of communion. After chapel, I was going back to my room to do some stuff, but I passed by the youth director's office and one of my new friends was in there by herself, so I said, "Hi, 'Michelle.'" 'Michelle' is a pseudonym, btw. So, we were talking for a few minutes and she was telling me some stuff I hadn't heard before. Like, how they do announcements in the refectory after chapel every day. And we were chatting about some other things and all of a sudden, I heard the announcer in the refectory say, "We have some new students..." And 'Michelle' said, "Oh, look! That's you! You better get out there." But I was like, "Are you kidding!" but then the announcer said, "Trish NewStudent is joining us this semester. Is she here?" And some people who could see me in the hallway said, "Yes, she's here! Come on out!" So I'm sure I turned bright red, (as per usual when I am unexpectedly made the center of attention) and walked out of the hallway into the refectory. I felt like a football player who was going out onto the field! haha. But they clapped and I felt like a dork (But that's ok, cuz I AM a dork. I hold this title with pride). And then they announced another new student and some students that would be joining us later in the semester, I believe. And after all that, I went to my room and did the stuff I'd been planning to do before I sidetracked myself. It was nice to have the students welcome me to the community, I was just unprepared. Thus, the turning beet red. I am laughing about it though. I'm not traumatized or embarrassed or anything...
So, anyway... After I did what I needed to do in my room, I went and put some much delayed thank you letters into the mail for the various people/organizations who have really supported me and wished me well as I begin this new adventure. And I planned to go buy my textbooks after I did that, because I should have done that earlier. So, I went to the bookstore and found the books I needed to buy, (except for one that they are out of) and the woman working behind the counter asked if I'd like her to order it for me. I said yes, paid, and then left the store. BUT, on my way out, I saw a man standing kind of in the foyer, and so I said "Hi." He started talking, and so I stayed and we conversed for a few minutes and he said, "Every year, I come and buy a student's textbooks. Can I buy yours?" !!!! WOAH! So, he said, "Come on, let's go back in." And so, we went in, and re-did the sale and I can't believe it. Wow. What a blessing and affirmation. God just really has a way of surprising me sometimes. It's a reminder that God is good, all the time.
Monday, January 29, 2007
An idea of how my first day at Seminary went...
That's not to say it was bad. Just slightly overwhelming. But good. I'm optimistic about it all.
Sunday, January 28, 2007
P.S.
I finally finished unpacking and getting my stuff put away and in order. It feels less cluttered now!
Tomorrow is the Big Day.
Class here at Seminary starts tomorrow. I'm only taking one, because I'm doing CPE now, too. I'm taking "Ages of Faith and Reform." I believe it's a history class. What I'm most excited about, though, is the fact that there is chapel every weekday. I really like worshiping here. During J-term, I think they only do chapel on Wednesday afternoons. I went this past Wednesday, and it was cool. They are using the new "cranberry" hymnal. I went to worship today at a nearby church with two new friends, and that church also uses the new hymnal. I'm not very familiar with it yet, but it's nice. When I went to chapel Wednesday, I opened the book and noticed in the very front that there was a sticker or something that said something along the lines of, "Given from ILC, MyHomeChurchTown, Illinois; a partner in the Gospel." I knew we donated new hymnals, but I just thought it was cool that the very first time I sat down for chapel, I got to use one that my church donated. :)
In other news, for some odd reason, right now I am feeling similar to the way I felt on my first day of kindergarten 19 years ago. I wish I still had my little bookbag which was not like any of the other kids' bookbags. It was like a little briefcase that did not go on my back, but that I carried with two handles. It had school buses on it. I hated it back then, but now I remember it fondly. I feel kind of scared, but also very hopeful and excited that pretty soon I'm going to be making lots of friends, and getting to hang out and do fun community-type activities with people that I will get to know and love. I'm eagerly anticipating the day when I can consider this place to be a home of sorts. Right now, I don't call it home. I say, "It took me x amount of time to get back to Seminary the other day." I'm not saying, "It took me x amount of time to get home the other day." But I suspect that will change. My home will always be my home, but I hope that I can consider this place my home away from home. Also, whenever I hear about people who have gone here, I notice that they speak of it in incredibly fond ways. I want that kind of bond with this place, and the people who live here. So, I say as I am about to begin my first day, "Bring it on. I'm ready to dive in." It is my prayer and fervent hope that I can grow into my role as a seminarian. Quite befitting to this feeling is a song we sang during worship at the CPE house the other day. It is hymn # 814 in Evangelical Lutheran Worship.
"Take, oh, take me as I am;
summon out what I shall be;
set your seal upon my heart and live in me."
In other news, for some odd reason, right now I am feeling similar to the way I felt on my first day of kindergarten 19 years ago. I wish I still had my little bookbag which was not like any of the other kids' bookbags. It was like a little briefcase that did not go on my back, but that I carried with two handles. It had school buses on it. I hated it back then, but now I remember it fondly. I feel kind of scared, but also very hopeful and excited that pretty soon I'm going to be making lots of friends, and getting to hang out and do fun community-type activities with people that I will get to know and love. I'm eagerly anticipating the day when I can consider this place to be a home of sorts. Right now, I don't call it home. I say, "It took me x amount of time to get back to Seminary the other day." I'm not saying, "It took me x amount of time to get home the other day." But I suspect that will change. My home will always be my home, but I hope that I can consider this place my home away from home. Also, whenever I hear about people who have gone here, I notice that they speak of it in incredibly fond ways. I want that kind of bond with this place, and the people who live here. So, I say as I am about to begin my first day, "Bring it on. I'm ready to dive in." It is my prayer and fervent hope that I can grow into my role as a seminarian. Quite befitting to this feeling is a song we sang during worship at the CPE house the other day. It is hymn # 814 in Evangelical Lutheran Worship.
"Take, oh, take me as I am;
summon out what I shall be;
set your seal upon my heart and live in me."
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Dude, I totally harshed my own mellow...
Today, I was in CPETown doing my work at the hospital. I slapped some bucks into my pocket this morning to make sure I had enough money to have lunch. I ate all last week, and 3 days this week using twenty dollars. I still have $.60 left from that original 20. So, I was hoping the same amount would last me again. So, I didn't have to use my $20 bucks today, so it was just in my pocket. And, at the end of my shift, it was no longer there. It fell out of my pocket. So, me being as frugal as I am, was quite bummed about that. I guess I learned my lesson: Don't put lunch money in the same pocket as the paper I take out to jot notes on. *sigh* What's that about how we can't serve two masters? I figure someone who needed it more than I do found it and was blessed by it. I hope so, anyway. I would be totally bummed if some rich doctor found it... :) I'm a dork.
Anyway, my day was not all bad. I made some good contacts in the hospital. The best all day was with a 16 year old young man. He was honest and open, but he wasn't contrived or patronizing. I appreciated it greatly. Another up point in my day was that I met a very cute CNA this morning. We shall call him "Rob." I was in a room when he came in to deliver some OJ. He talked to the patient and then talked to me some. Later on, I saw him again and he talked to me again. And then, later in the hallway while I was charting, he came up to me and was feeding me this really dorky story about how the "Big Boss" really liked this (completely fabricated, in no way a possibility) idea of his. I played along with him and it was fun. Then when he was done saying that, he said something else along the lines of, "I don't mean to be too forward here, but I just wanted you to know that you are a beautiful woman. In fact, one of the most beautiful women I've seen in a while." And I was flabbergasted! I'm not typically considered the "beautiful" type. I'm the "cute" one. So, instead of thinking up all the reasons why he must be lying, I'm choosing to believe him. I was flattered. So, it's nice to be complimented sometimes, especially by people who are seemingly honest. I don't know why else he'd say that, so I'm believing he was being truthful. So, thanks "Rob;" you're not too bad yourself! :)
Anyway, my day was not all bad. I made some good contacts in the hospital. The best all day was with a 16 year old young man. He was honest and open, but he wasn't contrived or patronizing. I appreciated it greatly. Another up point in my day was that I met a very cute CNA this morning. We shall call him "Rob." I was in a room when he came in to deliver some OJ. He talked to the patient and then talked to me some. Later on, I saw him again and he talked to me again. And then, later in the hallway while I was charting, he came up to me and was feeding me this really dorky story about how the "Big Boss" really liked this (completely fabricated, in no way a possibility) idea of his. I played along with him and it was fun. Then when he was done saying that, he said something else along the lines of, "I don't mean to be too forward here, but I just wanted you to know that you are a beautiful woman. In fact, one of the most beautiful women I've seen in a while." And I was flabbergasted! I'm not typically considered the "beautiful" type. I'm the "cute" one. So, instead of thinking up all the reasons why he must be lying, I'm choosing to believe him. I was flattered. So, it's nice to be complimented sometimes, especially by people who are seemingly honest. I don't know why else he'd say that, so I'm believing he was being truthful. So, thanks "Rob;" you're not too bad yourself! :)
All the cool kids were doing it...
So, I am too. My aristocratic title.
The "St. Anywhere" seems quite befitting... Seeing as my mind has been wandering lately, and not confined to say the least. Ha.
 | My Peculiar Aristocratic Title is: Milady the Most Honourable Trish the Prohibited of Molton St Anywhere Get your Peculiar Aristocratic Title |
The "St. Anywhere" seems quite befitting... Seeing as my mind has been wandering lately, and not confined to say the least. Ha.
Monday, January 22, 2007
Pop Tarts are great!
And not just because they are a wonderful, portable, easy breakfast! Sis gave me some Pop Tarts for my dorm room here, and I finally had a packet of them today. I was looking on the box and I saw that I had another one of those "Free Download" boxes! These are the ones where there is a code on the inside of the box and you can go to the website and put in your code and download a song. So, I did that today. I didn't know what to download because there are a lot of songs I really like, but I decided on the remake, "Life is a Highway" by Rascal Flatts. It's a cool song. It's on the soundtrack to the movie "Cars" (A good movie, btw. I recommend it). I'm amazed that it only took about 3 minutes to download the tune though. That is the joy of cable Internet. The last time I tried to download a song from them, it took me 3 days because it kept timing out or something because I had dial up. Yay!
In other news, I pre-registered for my class today. I have to take the forms back to the office next Monday and finalize it. I decided to only take one class on top of CPE. That'll be 8 credit hours altogether. I don't want to burn out with the commute, loads of homework, and all the other things that are involved with attending seminary. I am feeling pretty good about this whole situation today.
Pastor was here again today for another continuing education event. I went to the other building to check to see if I had any mail, and when I was coming back through, he was sitting at a table having lunch. He motioned for me to come over and chat with him. That was nice. I wish I would have worn my "MySeminary" sweatshirt today; we could have been twins! lol. I contemplated it, but decided on my black zip up instead. Oh well.
Tomorrow I have to go back to CPE town because Tuesday is one of my working days. I just hope that it doesn't snow too much and make a mess out of the roads again.
And finally, I ventured outside of the seminary today to go some places by myself. I went to Target and HyVee and got some stuff for my refrigerator. I'm not a big fan of venturing places I've never been if I have to drive, but if I'm going to be living here, I need to get used to the roads and stuff. So, that's that. I'm back, all safe and sound. And with that, I'm going to go. Peace.
In other news, I pre-registered for my class today. I have to take the forms back to the office next Monday and finalize it. I decided to only take one class on top of CPE. That'll be 8 credit hours altogether. I don't want to burn out with the commute, loads of homework, and all the other things that are involved with attending seminary. I am feeling pretty good about this whole situation today.
Pastor was here again today for another continuing education event. I went to the other building to check to see if I had any mail, and when I was coming back through, he was sitting at a table having lunch. He motioned for me to come over and chat with him. That was nice. I wish I would have worn my "MySeminary" sweatshirt today; we could have been twins! lol. I contemplated it, but decided on my black zip up instead. Oh well.
Tomorrow I have to go back to CPE town because Tuesday is one of my working days. I just hope that it doesn't snow too much and make a mess out of the roads again.
And finally, I ventured outside of the seminary today to go some places by myself. I went to Target and HyVee and got some stuff for my refrigerator. I'm not a big fan of venturing places I've never been if I have to drive, but if I'm going to be living here, I need to get used to the roads and stuff. So, that's that. I'm back, all safe and sound. And with that, I'm going to go. Peace.
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Funny Sleeping Story, as promised.
Last week, I mentioned that I haven't been sleeping really well. You know how it goes; new sounds, new environment, different bed, yadda, yadda, yadda... Well, one night, there was more to it than that. This is the story...
For Christmas, Sis and BiL got me one of those things that will charge your battery if it ever dies and you don't have jumper cables. They thought that since I am out here and don't know anyone, I should have this thing. So, I brought it with me when I came. Upon taking it out of the box, I realized that I needed to charge this thing before its first use. So, I read the instructions and it told me what I needed to do. When I turned it on, (it has to be on to charge) it let out this loud, high pitched, foghorn like sound. I thought, "Gee, I hope the neighbors aren't freaking out." But, then it quit the beep and just started flashing some. All was well and good...
Or so I thought. I went to bed that night and fell asleep pretty easily. But, YS called me about 10:00 or so to talk. I talked to her for a few minutes and she figured out that I had been sleeping, so she said she'd talk to me later. Great. Back to sleep I go. UNTIL about 2:30 in the morning when I'm awakened by this really loud, high pitched, foghorn like sound! My battery charger was done charging and it is programmed to do that when it's done charging so the owner doesn't overcharge it! I was afraid that the neighbors were going to come knocking to see what was going on. Thankfully, they didn't. Phew.
My heart was pounding because I was thinking, "I'm probably breaking all sorts of etiquette rules that residence halls have. I'm going to get kicked out and everyone is going to HATE me before the semester even begins!" (I know, completely irrational. Only my floor will hate me ;)) But again, I managed to get back to sleep. Until!! About 3:30 when all of a sudden I hear, "Crash, Boom, Bam! In the shower, in the shower, gettin' clean for the day! I will wash and then shower as the dirt goes down the drain!" (sung to the tune of "Oh my darling Clementine") I have this Patrick Star shower thing where he suction cups to the wall and you press his bellybutton and he sings or says various phrases. I think I might have blogged about him before...He fell off the shower wall, and in the process, his belly button got pushed. So, by then, I'm thinking, "You have GOT to be kidding me!" But, no one came busting down my door. I later learned that the neighbors were not here that night because they were doing something for J-term! Praise the Lord! Let's just say that Patrick will not be hung up again... He's sitting nicely in the bathroom.
That is my story from the other night. I look back and laugh now, so I hope you can giggle a little about it too.
For Christmas, Sis and BiL got me one of those things that will charge your battery if it ever dies and you don't have jumper cables. They thought that since I am out here and don't know anyone, I should have this thing. So, I brought it with me when I came. Upon taking it out of the box, I realized that I needed to charge this thing before its first use. So, I read the instructions and it told me what I needed to do. When I turned it on, (it has to be on to charge) it let out this loud, high pitched, foghorn like sound. I thought, "Gee, I hope the neighbors aren't freaking out." But, then it quit the beep and just started flashing some. All was well and good...
Or so I thought. I went to bed that night and fell asleep pretty easily. But, YS called me about 10:00 or so to talk. I talked to her for a few minutes and she figured out that I had been sleeping, so she said she'd talk to me later. Great. Back to sleep I go. UNTIL about 2:30 in the morning when I'm awakened by this really loud, high pitched, foghorn like sound! My battery charger was done charging and it is programmed to do that when it's done charging so the owner doesn't overcharge it! I was afraid that the neighbors were going to come knocking to see what was going on. Thankfully, they didn't. Phew.
My heart was pounding because I was thinking, "I'm probably breaking all sorts of etiquette rules that residence halls have. I'm going to get kicked out and everyone is going to HATE me before the semester even begins!" (I know, completely irrational. Only my floor will hate me ;)) But again, I managed to get back to sleep. Until!! About 3:30 when all of a sudden I hear, "Crash, Boom, Bam! In the shower, in the shower, gettin' clean for the day! I will wash and then shower as the dirt goes down the drain!" (sung to the tune of "Oh my darling Clementine") I have this Patrick Star shower thing where he suction cups to the wall and you press his bellybutton and he sings or says various phrases. I think I might have blogged about him before...He fell off the shower wall, and in the process, his belly button got pushed. So, by then, I'm thinking, "You have GOT to be kidding me!" But, no one came busting down my door. I later learned that the neighbors were not here that night because they were doing something for J-term! Praise the Lord! Let's just say that Patrick will not be hung up again... He's sitting nicely in the bathroom.
That is my story from the other night. I look back and laugh now, so I hope you can giggle a little about it too.
Yikes
I had my first ever "on call" shift of CPE from 8:00 a.m. Saturday to 8:00 a.m. Sunday. I was nervous. That pager just puts me on edge. But, I think I did pretty well. To pass the time between pages, (I got two within those 24 hours) I read a book. Sis also called, and I called Ma to wish her a happy birthday (it's today). I have two more "on call" Saturdays, but not for a while. I'm anxious to start regular visits which I believe will be less stressful because that pager is just intimidating... hehe.
Because "on call" lasted til 8 this morning, and it snowed a good amount up here last night and this morning/afternoon, I knew that I wouldn't be able to make it back to SeminaryTown to go find a new place to worship. Therefore, I planned ahead and looked at www.elca.org's website to find a church in CPETown. I mapquested it, and set out a little bit early to find it. Let me just say this: Mapquest Cannot Be Trusted! They told me to go north when I should have gone south! I mean, I'm in a big city with which I am not at all familiar, and they're telling me the exact opposite of where I need to go. I ended up stopping and asking some guy who was shoveling his walk. And because I had gone fairly far out of my way, he wasn't exactly sure how to tell me how to get where I needed to go. I followed his directions, and then stopped and asked some kid (I know, that probably wasn't good; but I stayed away from him while he talked to me. I don't want to be accused of kidnapping or something). So, I found the church and walked in just as it was starting. It was a nice service. Not what I was used to, but nice. But I am looking for a church in SeminaryTown and I'm slightly disappointed that I wasn't able to do that this weekend. Me and my momentary insanity with volunteering, I guess! But really, I want to find a church similar to my church back home for right now. That might change in the future, but I think continuity and routine will help as I continue to adjust to living here.
On my way back to SeminaryTown from CPETown, the roads were BAD! Not too bad for the first 40 miles or so, but the last hour of driving was just AWFUL. I was very thankful that there was an SUV type vehicle in front of me leading the way. And when I got to Seminary, I pulled into the parking lot and gunned the car so I could get through the snow pile. It was kinda fun because no one was around for me to hurt.. And I was going up to the higher parking lot and gunned it through some snow the snow plow man had just pushed out of the way. It was also fun. As I was getting out of the car, I realized I couldn't find my phone, so I was looking for it. I found it as the snow plow man drove up to my car. I talked with him for a minute. Nice guy; seems really cool.
Anyway, I also wanted to thank those of you who have offered me advice on living in this "strange, new place." :) I appreciate it. I will have to take you up on your suggestions when I can, because I know that they will help me integrate into life here. See you all later, and make sure to drive safely if you got blasted with winter weather.
Because "on call" lasted til 8 this morning, and it snowed a good amount up here last night and this morning/afternoon, I knew that I wouldn't be able to make it back to SeminaryTown to go find a new place to worship. Therefore, I planned ahead and looked at www.elca.org's website to find a church in CPETown. I mapquested it, and set out a little bit early to find it. Let me just say this: Mapquest Cannot Be Trusted! They told me to go north when I should have gone south! I mean, I'm in a big city with which I am not at all familiar, and they're telling me the exact opposite of where I need to go. I ended up stopping and asking some guy who was shoveling his walk. And because I had gone fairly far out of my way, he wasn't exactly sure how to tell me how to get where I needed to go. I followed his directions, and then stopped and asked some kid (I know, that probably wasn't good; but I stayed away from him while he talked to me. I don't want to be accused of kidnapping or something). So, I found the church and walked in just as it was starting. It was a nice service. Not what I was used to, but nice. But I am looking for a church in SeminaryTown and I'm slightly disappointed that I wasn't able to do that this weekend. Me and my momentary insanity with volunteering, I guess! But really, I want to find a church similar to my church back home for right now. That might change in the future, but I think continuity and routine will help as I continue to adjust to living here.
On my way back to SeminaryTown from CPETown, the roads were BAD! Not too bad for the first 40 miles or so, but the last hour of driving was just AWFUL. I was very thankful that there was an SUV type vehicle in front of me leading the way. And when I got to Seminary, I pulled into the parking lot and gunned the car so I could get through the snow pile. It was kinda fun because no one was around for me to hurt.. And I was going up to the higher parking lot and gunned it through some snow the snow plow man had just pushed out of the way. It was also fun. As I was getting out of the car, I realized I couldn't find my phone, so I was looking for it. I found it as the snow plow man drove up to my car. I talked with him for a minute. Nice guy; seems really cool.
Anyway, I also wanted to thank those of you who have offered me advice on living in this "strange, new place." :) I appreciate it. I will have to take you up on your suggestions when I can, because I know that they will help me integrate into life here. See you all later, and make sure to drive safely if you got blasted with winter weather.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Beam me up, Scotty!
Ok, so I've finally found a moment to blog. I'm all moved in to my room at the place others have lovingly referred to as, "The Mothership." Man, this has been SOME week, though. This is probably going to be a long post, so you might want to pop a bag of popcorn or something...
First off, I lied. I unplugged my computer Saturday afternoon. Thus, no new posts since then. So, I'm sorry; it was an unintentional lie. My bad. My sibs wanted to go as soon after worship as possible. So, I unplugged my computer and had it all ready to go with all of my other stuff. Sunday morning came around I went to worship. I talked with a few people before church started, and Pastor came up to me with the alb he told me he was going to give me. He had it cleaned, and an alb bag made for it. He also included the cincture (sp?) and a wooden cross, so I went and hung it up on the coat rack so it wouldn't get all wrinkle worn in the pew with me. Pastor is an awesome guy. He has been a tremendous influence on me and I don't know where I'd be without him. So, even though he doesn't read this, I'd like to say a big fat, "Thank YOU, Pastor!"
Ma and I were then waiting and waiting and waiting in the fellowship hall for my sisters who said they would be there. But, they weren't coming, so we went in and sat down when it was almost time for the service to begin. The ushers seated us and a minute later, Sis, BiL, Howard, and YS came in and sat down with us. Then, not 10 seconds later, my older brother (the one who didn't come to my graduation party) came in and sat with us, too! Which is awesome because he NEVER comes to church. He's baptized and confirmed, but he hasn't been to worship in years. I had told him about it being my last Sunday, but he didn't seem too enthusiastic. Boy was I surprised when he came in! Pleasantly surprised.
Anyway, worship started and Pastor started leading the service. After one of the hymns, he said, "You may be seated, but I'd like to invite Trish up here for a minute." So, I walked up there and he had a little book up front with him. He mentioned to the congregation that I was leaving for Seminary soon after worship. That made the church clap. I was touched. And then he did the brief order of service for "Farewell and Godspeed." It basically said, "Trish, you were baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit here, you were confirmed here, and you have been encouraged here. The Holy Spirit has empowered you to go forth to further discern your call to public ministry. We wish you farewell and Godspeed." And that's not at all a direct quote because it was just sort of overwhelming (in a good way) and so I didn't get a chance to really memorize what was said. But then, after that was over, Pastor said, "Don't go anywhere yet." And he went behind the pulpit and brought some stuff out. He told me that the quilting group had been very busy and that they made me two quilts. Since they knew my favorite color is orange, (Did I ever mention I wear bright orange shoelaces?) and because the colors of my seminary are orange and black, they made one quilt orange and black squares, and one is orange with some patterns in the other squares. They are both very nice. One is now on my futon and the other is on my bed. I look at them and think of home.
But, that wasn't the end. Pastor also presented me with the new ELCA worship book, "Evangelical Lutheran Worship." They had purchased 25 of them to give to the seminary, and I guess they probably bought one for me to take. And finally, I was given "The Lutheran Handbook for Pastors." I was so humbled I can't even begin to tell you. The people at my home congregation are just wonderful. They've all been so supportive and loving that I am just in awe. I love 'em!
So, after that, I sat down, put my quilts and books in the empty pew ahead of me, and worship ended soon thereafter. The ushers got up and were dismissing us. Since we sit toward the front, only one pew got out before us. When I got to the back, Pastor said, "Put that stuff right there young lady. These people are going to want to wish you off!" And so I put my stuff in the last (empty) pew and stood behind him. Almost everyone gave me a hug and well wishes. I shared some words with the people, and especially with the people who have been more vocal and intentional about their support of me. But, I'm truly appreciative of EVERYONE in that congregation.
After everyone greeted us, I talked for a little while with some more of the people, and then I had to go home. When I got there, Sis, BiL, Howard, YS, and YSB had pretty much crammed everything into the vehicles. So, I just had to get a few things squared away and we left. On the way out of town, I rolled down my window and yelled, "BYE MYTOWN!"
We stopped for lunch at a good place we've eaten before,and an hour after that we were at Seminary. The Sibs and their guys helped me move in and get me settled, for the most part. The guys went with me to a local retailer and I bought a refrigerator. BiL also told me to have it delivered and he'd put the money in my account. It's nice having a fridge, but there isn't much in it right now. I'm too chicken to find my way around town. Soon after that, it was time for them to go because it was starting to snow and stuff outside. I was sad when they left, though. I have never lived away from home before because I commuted to college all four years. It's weird thinking that my family is three hours away and in another state. I have to admit that I was really homesick for the first few days, but today I'm feeling better about it.
On Monday, Pastor was here doing some continuing education. I had called Ma on Sunday night and Pastor and his wife were at my house with my oldest brother whom we shall call Mark, (the one who didn't come to my graduation thing) and his wife. I gave Ma my room telephone number and she probably gave it to Pastor because he called me Monday and we went to lunch. It was good. I felt better with him here because I hate being a complete hermit, but was not feeling well enough to go socialize. So, we went to lunch and he went to his continuing ed thing, and he called again before he left. I think he's coming again this coming Monday. I don't know for sure though.
My Internet wasn't working until yesterday, but we got that figured out. I was bummed when I got here because I didn't see many people. But, Monday, I was going into my room and I saw someone at the end of the hall. She said hi, so I said hi back. I'm REALLY glad that I didn't run straight into my room because she came down and talked to me for a good long while. It turns out, she's a student who works here. She answered a bunch of my questions, and she offered to help get me squared away with some stuff. She also helped me get the Internet going! It took some extra effort on her part, but I AM SO GRATEFUL!! She deserves a medal.
Tuesday also started CPE orientation. That has been really intense. I'm slightly afraid, but I'm confident that while it will be challenging, and at times frustrating, I plan on learning and growing a lot. So, I'm nervous and excited. Tomorrow is the last day of orientation and I offered to do the first "on call" Saturday. I don't really know what I was thinking when I volunteered for that! Pray for me!
And now, I need to log off, get my stuff set out for tomorrow, do a little reading, and head to bed. I haven't slept well this week, being in a new place and all. Later I will tell you a funny (I think) story about one night's quest for the beloved 8 hours... Have a good one, and sorry this was so long. I needed to get it out here so I could think about it. Have a good one.
First off, I lied. I unplugged my computer Saturday afternoon. Thus, no new posts since then. So, I'm sorry; it was an unintentional lie. My bad. My sibs wanted to go as soon after worship as possible. So, I unplugged my computer and had it all ready to go with all of my other stuff. Sunday morning came around I went to worship. I talked with a few people before church started, and Pastor came up to me with the alb he told me he was going to give me. He had it cleaned, and an alb bag made for it. He also included the cincture (sp?) and a wooden cross, so I went and hung it up on the coat rack so it wouldn't get all wrinkle worn in the pew with me. Pastor is an awesome guy. He has been a tremendous influence on me and I don't know where I'd be without him. So, even though he doesn't read this, I'd like to say a big fat, "Thank YOU, Pastor!"
Ma and I were then waiting and waiting and waiting in the fellowship hall for my sisters who said they would be there. But, they weren't coming, so we went in and sat down when it was almost time for the service to begin. The ushers seated us and a minute later, Sis, BiL, Howard, and YS came in and sat down with us. Then, not 10 seconds later, my older brother (the one who didn't come to my graduation party) came in and sat with us, too! Which is awesome because he NEVER comes to church. He's baptized and confirmed, but he hasn't been to worship in years. I had told him about it being my last Sunday, but he didn't seem too enthusiastic. Boy was I surprised when he came in! Pleasantly surprised.
Anyway, worship started and Pastor started leading the service. After one of the hymns, he said, "You may be seated, but I'd like to invite Trish up here for a minute." So, I walked up there and he had a little book up front with him. He mentioned to the congregation that I was leaving for Seminary soon after worship. That made the church clap. I was touched. And then he did the brief order of service for "Farewell and Godspeed." It basically said, "Trish, you were baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit here, you were confirmed here, and you have been encouraged here. The Holy Spirit has empowered you to go forth to further discern your call to public ministry. We wish you farewell and Godspeed." And that's not at all a direct quote because it was just sort of overwhelming (in a good way) and so I didn't get a chance to really memorize what was said. But then, after that was over, Pastor said, "Don't go anywhere yet." And he went behind the pulpit and brought some stuff out. He told me that the quilting group had been very busy and that they made me two quilts. Since they knew my favorite color is orange, (Did I ever mention I wear bright orange shoelaces?) and because the colors of my seminary are orange and black, they made one quilt orange and black squares, and one is orange with some patterns in the other squares. They are both very nice. One is now on my futon and the other is on my bed. I look at them and think of home.
But, that wasn't the end. Pastor also presented me with the new ELCA worship book, "Evangelical Lutheran Worship." They had purchased 25 of them to give to the seminary, and I guess they probably bought one for me to take. And finally, I was given "The Lutheran Handbook for Pastors." I was so humbled I can't even begin to tell you. The people at my home congregation are just wonderful. They've all been so supportive and loving that I am just in awe. I love 'em!
So, after that, I sat down, put my quilts and books in the empty pew ahead of me, and worship ended soon thereafter. The ushers got up and were dismissing us. Since we sit toward the front, only one pew got out before us. When I got to the back, Pastor said, "Put that stuff right there young lady. These people are going to want to wish you off!" And so I put my stuff in the last (empty) pew and stood behind him. Almost everyone gave me a hug and well wishes. I shared some words with the people, and especially with the people who have been more vocal and intentional about their support of me. But, I'm truly appreciative of EVERYONE in that congregation.
After everyone greeted us, I talked for a little while with some more of the people, and then I had to go home. When I got there, Sis, BiL, Howard, YS, and YSB had pretty much crammed everything into the vehicles. So, I just had to get a few things squared away and we left. On the way out of town, I rolled down my window and yelled, "BYE MYTOWN!"
We stopped for lunch at a good place we've eaten before,and an hour after that we were at Seminary. The Sibs and their guys helped me move in and get me settled, for the most part. The guys went with me to a local retailer and I bought a refrigerator. BiL also told me to have it delivered and he'd put the money in my account. It's nice having a fridge, but there isn't much in it right now. I'm too chicken to find my way around town. Soon after that, it was time for them to go because it was starting to snow and stuff outside. I was sad when they left, though. I have never lived away from home before because I commuted to college all four years. It's weird thinking that my family is three hours away and in another state. I have to admit that I was really homesick for the first few days, but today I'm feeling better about it.
On Monday, Pastor was here doing some continuing education. I had called Ma on Sunday night and Pastor and his wife were at my house with my oldest brother whom we shall call Mark, (the one who didn't come to my graduation thing) and his wife. I gave Ma my room telephone number and she probably gave it to Pastor because he called me Monday and we went to lunch. It was good. I felt better with him here because I hate being a complete hermit, but was not feeling well enough to go socialize. So, we went to lunch and he went to his continuing ed thing, and he called again before he left. I think he's coming again this coming Monday. I don't know for sure though.
My Internet wasn't working until yesterday, but we got that figured out. I was bummed when I got here because I didn't see many people. But, Monday, I was going into my room and I saw someone at the end of the hall. She said hi, so I said hi back. I'm REALLY glad that I didn't run straight into my room because she came down and talked to me for a good long while. It turns out, she's a student who works here. She answered a bunch of my questions, and she offered to help get me squared away with some stuff. She also helped me get the Internet going! It took some extra effort on her part, but I AM SO GRATEFUL!! She deserves a medal.
Tuesday also started CPE orientation. That has been really intense. I'm slightly afraid, but I'm confident that while it will be challenging, and at times frustrating, I plan on learning and growing a lot. So, I'm nervous and excited. Tomorrow is the last day of orientation and I offered to do the first "on call" Saturday. I don't really know what I was thinking when I volunteered for that! Pray for me!
And now, I need to log off, get my stuff set out for tomorrow, do a little reading, and head to bed. I haven't slept well this week, being in a new place and all. Later I will tell you a funny (I think) story about one night's quest for the beloved 8 hours... Have a good one, and sorry this was so long. I needed to get it out here so I could think about it. Have a good one.
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