I woke up to a lovely rain falling. The rain barrel must be almost full again, which is wonderful. Using city water just does not help the plants along as nicely, especially the flowers and veggies. Heck, it barely keeps the grass green in blotches.
At Mass today, I think we ended up in the most condensed pew available in the church. Pretty sure that when they took the chairs out to redo the floors they put the side ones in wrong and kind of stuck this one in a tiny space really unsuitable for a person with back and hip problems.
It was a very strange sermon today. I sat in pretty much disbelief as Father Thuy spoke.
I have been trying to simplify my life and move towards peace and living a life of abundance. Guess what Father spoke about. Yep, realizing that we live lives of abundance already and how lucky we are to live in a place where there is really very little violent crime, and have a community that cares and watches out for each other.
I do know that when we have missed in person Mass it is noticed, and when we get back people ask how my back is and if my cancer has returned (they figure the last one is what is keeping us from attending Mass as often as we should). In a way the concern of others is touching, but in another way I almost wish that this small city, was not quite as small. Or perhaps I am too well known in the parish community due to my years as Youth Coordinator, Lector, Extraordinary Minister of Communion, and Parish Council Chairperson. I had hoped that my drawing back from those areas would mean I would not be in the community's eye as much. Not going to happen I suppose.
My menu has changed once again for today. We went out for brunch after Mass and I did not feel like making a roast. So I have pulled out a container of Sweet and Sour Ribs, put on some potatoes to boil and mash, and have some frozen peas as our vegetable side. This does change the menu for the week a bit as well, but there is an abundance of food in the fridge and freezer so this will give me a chance to use things up a little before adding more to the mix.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
We are so blessed to live with such abundance in our lives. So often it is taken for granted. Just such gifts given each day.
ReplyDeleteI am not as popular as you are but I love my solitude as much, I would wager, lol. I don't mind being somewhat social, but on my terms, lol. Sweet & Sour ribs sound wonderful!
ReplyDeleteEnjoyed reading your Roundup post too, Jackie. My grandparents were in a tiny outport and everyone knew everything, like if someone didn't have their wash put out on the line by a certain time on Monday morning, someone would run to their house to make sure they were okay. It's got its pros and cons, doesn't it. I am United but attended Mass for two years with a good friend. I always was inspired by something during the service. But you must be comfortable too. And you certainly gave good service to your church.
ReplyDeleteI grew up in a very small town & couldn't wait to move on & have people out of my business. DH grew up in a huge city, and doesn't really get what I mean about everyone knowing everything about you, from the time you were a child to an adult. Every stupid mistake you've ever made, every bad relationship, etc. I go "home" pretty often to see my parents, and luckily, a lot of the people I grew up with no longer live there, and I don't really see them when we visit, so it works out. But, living there full time would not be for me. - Hawaii Planner
ReplyDeleteIt must seem intrusive at times, especially when people ask questions that border on too personal. But it is nice to know that you have a caring community, should you need them.
ReplyDeleteI've not yet made any acquaintances here in our small town, mostly because my time is taken up by my daughter, grandson, and the yard. I do know the seniors center offers various activities, but I never seem to remember to go. Perhaps this fall when things slow down a bit.
I love that your parish notices. That is a great sign of a good group of people.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Maebeme and OMW above BUT I also see your point. Some privacy is important too.
ReplyDeleteI chuckled when you said the meal plan changed. When my changes from a roast, it is usually to bacon and eggs, or grilled cheese.........yours was still another great meal! 💕
Having a caring community is both a blessing and a curse at times. For me, there's a fine line between privacy and showing concern for another person and what they might be going through. For some people it comes down to just plain being nosey.
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