Giving Up or Picking Up?

As most of you know, we are now in the holy season of Lent. If you didn't know, I am a cradle Catholic and attend St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Adamsville and so Lent has deep meaning for me. I understand that many other faiths observe Lent so I thought it might be a good topic to begin with for this week's post.

Our pastor, Fr. Vernon Huguley, has the same approach to Lent that I do. Shall I give up something or should I pick up something? The idea of giving up something is to be reminded of the ultimate sacrifice made for us in denying ourselves something. My approach in recent years is to pick up something as well as denying myself something. So this year I am giving up Facebook. Admittedly I spend way too much time digging through the news feed to keep up with my 600+ friends and posting random thoughts or photos. So far it has been hard but I find that I have more time to do for others or maybe enhance my spiritual life. There's a second part of my Lenten observance -- that is, some random act of kindness; a card, a phone call, a good deed for someone in need, etc. It's going pretty well so far but I am busier than ever these days. It's a good kind of busy though! So how's your Lent going so far?

Since my last post, I have participated in yet another funeral service. Terri Smith Adcock left this world way too early but suffered for many years from cancer. She had left specific directives which included me playing the organ for her funeral and our pastor delivering her eulogy. Terri was so near the end when I left for my trip to Texas and our pastor was also traveling on a long-planned vacation. But she held on and got her wish. What a beautiful celebration of her life as Fr. Vernon delivered a heartwarming and personal message answering the question, "who is she?" She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, cousin and parishioner. I was honored to be a part and continue to pray for her family.

Cheers!

I had a delightful experience on Saturday as I joined with many of my high school classmates in providing an "instant housewarming and moving ambush" for Teresa (Terri) Johnson Brown. Engineered by a close friend of hers, about a dozen of us all arrived that morning with bags and boxes of goods and even a much needed piece of furniture for her bedroom. She was very overwhelmed but grateful for the help. Terri is a very giving person and we were thrilled to be able to give back to her. Here's to you and your new beginning, Terri. We love you!

Speaking of classmates, some of us got together than night for dinner at Zea's (Brookwood Mall). It was a great day but I was a very tired puppy that night!

I have to give kudos to my classmate, Pete Hill, who ran the Mercedes half marathon as a "Bellrunner" supporting his granddaughter, Karly. Pete, you humble me with your devotion to raising money for the Bell Center and for your fortitude in running this race. We're so happy you finished and even happier that you exceeded your fundraising goal. By the way, if you're a runner, check out this cool page about different ways to tie your shoelaces. It just could be your ticket to successfully running a half-marathon like Pete. (Well, I'm hoping that will be MY ticket!)

Pete and Karly

As for family time, I was fortunate to be able to get tickets to the Jim Brickman concert at UAB's Alys Stephens Center for a successful "sisters" gathering. Unfortunately one of my sisters lives out of town and I knew she couldn't be with us but we sure missed her. We will most certainly plan another gathering when she is back in town. Meanwhile we had a wonderful time and a very relaxing evening having dinner and attending the concert. These times are so rare and I am thankful we found the time to connect.

Here's a big "shout-out" to all who supported the Foundation's Teal Taco Tuesday last night at El Gringo's in Homewood. So many came out to enjoy the food and music. We appreciate your support and hope to see you again in a few months.

Luisa and Jonathan

Eddy and I are getting so excited about the upcoming arrival of our new granddaughter. We have an official name (Sofia Estella) and an official nursery! We visited on Sunday afternoon and spent some time with the future mom and dad. Luisa is doing well and looking great, don't you think? I continue to pray for our new arrival (due June 12) every day!

So we all know that February is the month of the Valentine. I had a wonderful visit with my dad and Eddy's mom on Valentine's morning. My Valentine sent me a beautiful arrangement of roses and they are still beautiful sitting on my desk. Shortly after Valentine's Day, I was visiting again with my folks and got to also visit with my niece's little girl, Claire. She was so dressed "in theme" that I asked her to let me take her picture. She always obliges and even added a special pose when I took her picture. So I will close with my sweet Claire wishing you all a wonderful Valentine's Day. After all, what's in your heart is the most special gift you can give to those you love. 

Thanks, Claire! I love you too.