Thanksgiving Days 2010-II
Wednesday I did three loads of laundry in the morning, had an appointment, then Mom, Dad, and I stopped by William and Marissa's home (to make a house call). We also called Auntie Mimang and sang and drummed for her. We played and read books, and most of us headed for pasta in the Strip District.
This morning I attended Mass with Dad. Carmella and Bob's sons celebrated Mass, John was the server, and Don provided music ministry from the loft. I spoke with Carmella and Bob after Mass, and Don and I spoke about wreath issues for this, which is the weekend we distribute them.
I think a minimum of 2 people are necessary (one to tally inventory/keep track of the order sheet, the other to hand out wreaths/keep track of actual inventory). In addition to the inventory sheet, it is necessary to have post-its, a pencil, and ideally at least one runner. The Runner/s will retrieve wreaths from the garage for people.
Labels: family, health, laundry, Mass, Spain
Thanksgiving Days 2010
Yesterday (Monday) Mom and I went to the resale shop then went to pick up Dad for lunch at the Japanese buffet. A two-hour nap ensued, then I went to Bible Study led by Frs. Josh and Steve at the Newman Center.
We used St. John Newman's text, PPS 3:44-53, "Early Years of David." When we were asked what made David different from the other prophets and holy men who preceded him, I asked whether he was filled with the Holy Spirit---the psalms were inspired, vs. Moses and Abraham, who occasionally went to separate places to communicate with God the Father. Fr. Josh reminded us of the presence of the Spirit (as in the Creed).
Later in the passage I said in response to this we read, a passage written by Newman, "[David] had power put into his hands, in a sense in which neither Moses had it nor Samuel. He was charged with a certain office": "David was empowered by God."
~~~
Today is a busy day. I started off the morning lectoring for morning Mass. Princess greeted me, as did Carol and Donna. Fr. Bill Dorner celebrated Mass, Ryan provided music ministry at the portative organ, and Linda was the server. We found out that Linda will be moving in a couple of weeks. The Mass was offered up for the soul of Margaret W., a friend and neighbor.
Later this morning I will meet with several of my students, one of whom will make up some work, (I will return the last of the written work they have given me) and then I have a couple of appointments before joining William and Marissa's children for Thanksgiving decoration preparations!
Labels: appointment, art, Bible, Faith, lector, Mass, meeting, sleep, St. Paul Cathedral, work
Tuesday--Lector at Mass
Today I lectored for a morning Mass. John served, Ken was music ministry, Father Breier celebrated the Mass, and Sally D. was the Eucharistic minister. <~48> The theme for the readings was Faith working through Love. We sang Ode to Joy as the recessional hymn.
Labels: lector, Mass
Morning Mass, the Living Church
I attended First Friday Mass this morning (celebrated by Fr. Jacques from South Africa, with John serving, Matt H. lectoring, and Ken playing the portative organ). Before Mass I had left a message for Fr. Breier that there are two plants growing near one of the statues on the front facade of the Cathedral building (next to a statue missing a right hand and part of an arm). Even though some of the stone artwork is missing, the plants signify to me the Living Church---the living stones of the Church (as Peter wrote in the Gospel). I will take a photo and then visit with Father Breier this morning.
Labels: biology, Church, Faith, Mass
Noon Mass, Nicole Constable, Heinz Chapel, and an evening walk
Yesterday after work I attended noon Mass, celebrated by Fr. Drew Morgan. He discussed the impact of the three archangels during the Michaelmas service.
I went to a lecture by Prof. Nicole Constable (A & S, Anthropology and Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and Research). She spoke on "Telling Tales of Migrant Workers: Religion, Activism, and Women's Life Scripts." I zoomed from the post-talk reception to...
...Heinz Chapel for our class tour of Heinz Chapel (by Jackie), including my leading a discussion of how three out of four of the main nave windows refer directly to concepts of Academic Integrity.
Maureen and I went for a post-dinner walk in Shadyside.
Labels: diaspora, Faith, Mass, Philippines, Pilipino culture, school, walking, work
Independence Day 2010
I awoke at 2, went back to sleep, arose at 5 (to the strains of the alarm), and was up until ~9. Took a nap after breakfast and photocopied the rebates for the phones, preparing them for mailing.
Mom and I met up with Dad for noon Mass. We all scurried off afterwards so that they could make it to their Bobby Vinton concert bus pick-up location.
Karina and I went to a craft store to get supplies for our projects. We got waylaid at Rita's Ice for mango ice and mango "gelato." We each made a project in the car. I made one with her help, utilizing a sentimental object from my childhood.
Labels: art, ice cream, jewelry, Mass, phone, sleep
Father's Day 2010
Mom, Dad, and I met up with William's family at a pub on the South Side for brunch. Beata was overstimulated by the shouts and chanting during the World Cup game televised on several TV sets in the pub. I had the lamb shepherd's pie, which was rich and delicious.
We went for ice cream afterwards. When we returned home I helped Mom and Dad with cruise plans. I took a 2+hour-long nap, then did some computer work. Mom, Dad, and I attended the 21.00 Mass at the Oratory, then had dinner of crab claws and shepherd's pie. Dessert included fresh fruit. Yum.
Labels: dining, ice cream, international culture, list, Mass, sleep, sports
End of the Week, June 2010: Christmas in June
This morning I lectored for Mass, with Father Bill celebrating, assisted by Deacon Brian Noel. John De served, with Ken at the portative organ. Deacon Brian delivered his homily on concepts addressed in the Gospel reading: Physical sight and how one treasures and protects that, and one's soul, which one treasures and protects. <~54>
Today is Don's half-birthday.
Mom, Dad, and I babysat Beatrice and Solomon. Marissa returned from her research study, and we all enjoyed lunch together. I went home for a 2+ hour nap, and then we went grocery shopping and to gas up the car. We also dined on fried chicken and bread at the Big Bird (GE). We discovered a faulty wiper blade, which we replaced.
Labels: Birthday, dine, gift, lector, Mass, niece and nephew, St. Paul Cathedral
Off to Mass
We're off to Mass, Lola's having an adventure. I've looked up possible vacations for her and Dad. I'll show them to her after Mass this late afternoon.
~~~
22.59
Mom and I went for a short walk this evening and we met a Pilipina nurse during our walk.
Labels: health, Mass, Philippines, St. Paul Cathedral, travel, walking
Mass, June 2010
Mom, Dad, and I will go to Mass this morning---Sacred Heart of Jesus is the celebration.
~~~
9.07
Fr. Breier celebrated the Mass, Matt H lectored, John DeF. served, Dad provided the television ministry, and Don provided the music ministry. It was a Mass for Grandma.Labels: Birthday, celebration, Grandma, Mass, music, St. Paul Cathedral, TV
Last Choir Sunday of the Season, Feast of Corpus Christi 2010
This Sunday was the Feast of Corpus Christi, our last Sunday as a full choir. Fr. Bill celebrated the Mass, and his homily was quite thought-provoking, addressing fringe elements of society who believe in the Eucharist.
Mom, Dad, and I went for Chinese/country buffet where we took Kirsten a couple of years ago. There was a dramatic sky, due to a tornado watch, and Mom took various pictures of the sky and buildings as we approached home. We were temporarily rerouted due to the Summer Reading Fest at the public library.
~~~
Monday I went to physical therapy (no ankle sleeve!) and Cara stepped me up to more resistance and more exercises (including the arm bicycle and balancing on foam. I walked from home to pick up some medicines for a basic medicine cabinet, and then to the library for computer work, and to the public library for a reserved book "waiting for me."
I had dinner, and Maureen and I went for a walk (after 20.00), running into Stacy and Vladimir on the way across the street. We looked at my borrowed library book (which is missing a fold-out city map) at the park benches near the library. I slept early, after a day of ~1.75-2.00 miles.
Labels: celebration, dining, exercise, health, library, Mass, photography, sleep, St. Paul Cathedral, walking
National Donut Day 2010
Friday I read / lectored at Mass in the morning. Fr. Bill celebrated, John DeF. served, and Ken played the portative organ. <~54> Maureen and I stopped by after her work and my physical therapy (where we added releves to my exercise regimen) at the donut shop in Squirrel Hill. We braved the rains to get a beverage and a donut. I got the employee's favorite, blueberry with maple icing (which tastes like blueberry pancakes with maple syrup). Maureen got her coconut favorite. I got a plain donut with chocolate icing for Karina. We picked up Karina at the Newman Center and proceeded to Victor's restaurant, where we enjoyed a spread that included a great! okra dish. I walked away stuffed.
Labels: dining, exercise, Faith, friends, lector, Mass, St. Paul Cathedral
Beginning of June 2010
Yesterday was the first day of June 2010. I awoke ~5:30 am and took care of various questions and issues:
Got an appointment for physical therapy evaluation
Asked questions on the phone about insurance, my (lost) hip/s card and needed preventive antibiotics, and using my battery charger at different voltage levels (no converter needed, just the adaptors).
I made spaghetti with white clam sauce with Mom, and a lovely salad for us to enjoy for lunch (and later for dinner).
*
Today, I awoke ~5:30 and took two long naps as I did yesterday, but not before going to morning Mass and inviting Anu to the Sunday reading Bible study by Fr. Drew.
I went for an evaluation of my health problems by Cara, PT.
And I attended Parish Pastoral Council, where we discussed updating the website and Elaine, Carmella, and I received thank you gifts for our time on Council. Matt will receive his later.
It is pouring down rain, so Tom gave Elaine and I rides home.
Labels: Bible, dine, exercise, Faith, Mass, pastoral council, sleep, St. Paul Cathedral, travel, weather
Pittsburgh Children's Festival, Phipps Garden, Carnegie Mellon
After singing at noon Mass (which was celebrated by Fr. Tim Kesicki), Regina and I met up with our parents and chatted until the baptism proceeded. Dad, Mom, and I went for Mexican food in Fox Chapel.
Maureen and I went for a walkabout Oakland: first to the Pittsburgh Children's Festival, on to Phipps Garden, then to Carnegie Mellon University. We saw CMU Engineering grads having their photos taken on Hillman Library steps, passed the carousel and the tent, past a bunch of arts, crafts, and activity booths, including retired greyhounds. Then we went to the petting zoo---the pony looked exhausted!
On to Phipps Garden, where we perambulated, and we smelled the herb garden. Maureen admired the peonies. Her friend called whist she was admiring the peonies to discuss peonies with her! We walked past the Cut, then stopped at Wawa's office door. We visited the Randy Pausch bridge and admired the lighting. We walked the ramp at the Gates Center, sat outside Newell-Simon Hall, and went to Lulu's for Maureen's smoothie.
Time to think about dinner plans.
Labels: celebration, children, Choir, dining, flowers, garden, ice cream, Mass, Pittsburgh, school, walking
Ascension Thursday 2010
Last night I helped Maureen write letters for her school. We had fun looking at Facebook afterwards.
This morning I went to morning Mass for the Ascension, and did my winter laundry/wash.
This afternoon, I met with a student to look over the final results, went home for a nap, and will have a snack.
~~~~~
21.15
Maureen and I walked to the burgers and fries joint for dinner after she attended six o'clock Mass. We enjoyed our meal, walked back in the cool dusk, commenting on how this is what it would be like an hour later in London at midsummer. I met up with Mom and Dad, spent some time chatting with them, and then they are attending Mass nearby.
It's quiet here in Mom and Dad's place, now. I think I'll have a glass of juice. (Red).
Just got in touch with Pratima at the top of the hour. Ellen's been wanting to talk to her, as well.
Labels: biology, blogs, celebration, dine, dining, friends, Mass, sleep, student, work, writing
Pittsburgh Marathon, Pitt's Graduation, Pens Game, and Mass
The Pittsburgh Marathon is being run as I type. The University of Pittsburgh's graduation is today. The Penguins play at Mellon arena early this afternoon. And getting around the city by motorized vehicle will be a challenge today.
~~~
I saw the runners turning east onto Fifth Avenue from Craig Street this morning before Mass.
~~~
11.15am
I lectored in place of Betty at the last Mass. She has problems navigating all the obstacles today. So Carol and Fr. Bill D. helped me to get organized for the Sunday Mass. The major difference is carrying in the book of the Gospels, as well as stepping down for the cantor to sing the psalm, and putting away the lectionary and step before the Gospel reading. Also, there is no announcing the hymns, as during the weekday Mass.
Fr. Bill celebrated the Mass; Rachel, PJ, and Steve served, Linda O. cantored; Ken was the organist; and Donna S. and Carmella and Bob were among the Eucharistic Ministers. Mom and Dad attended the Mass, I also saw Sarah from choir there. I saw Jim L. and Dan before Mass as usher and greeter, respectively.
I chatted with Linda after Mass about vocal health (pending my incipient laryngitis) and the seminar two Thursdays ago, then Mom and I chatted with Gloria and Steve about building issues.
~~~
Labels: Mass, organizing, school, sports, St. Paul Cathedral, voice, walking, work
Choir Day Off, Octave of Easter, April 2010
Yeah! A day off from choir today---I've finished grading all my papers handed to me last week, scored them, and recorded them. I even had a student with a perfect score!
Dad is serving as Eucharistic minister at the ten o'clock Mass---I will take him and Mom out for lunch at Five Guys (they haven't been there yet). Then a little shopping, and many happy returns, as well.
Labels: biology, Choir, dining, Mass, school, shopping, St. Paul Cathedral, student, work
SIS Distinguished Alumnus Award
Yesterday I lectored at Mass in the morning. Ken provided music ministry at the portative organ, John was the altar server, and Fr. Kim had switched with Fr. Bill for the morning Mass. The first reading was from the Acts of the Apostles, and the Gospel reading spoke about dropping the nets in a fortuitous place for catching fish. Fr. Kim spoke about Youth Ministry before Mass, and Ken spoke about the church on Polish Hill and photographs on the web. <48>
I dropped off my packets of graded papers from this week for my students to pick up just after noon.
Mom, Dad, and I had lunch (pancit! beef peanut soup! and strawberries and pears!), and then I took a nap.
I graded quizzes from about 14.00 to 17.30, half-finishing my task.
I went home to change for the School of Information Sciences Distinguished Alumni & Professional Achievement Awards Ceremony at the Athletic Association. My former professor, Ange Pollis, was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award for 2010. Ken S was awarded the 2010 Professional Achievement Award. His family was present, as was Ange's, and I asked him if he were related to my classmate A, who started Protest Easy Guns (he's not). Ange and her sister Helen were and looked lovely, and we chatted easily at times throughout the evening.
I caught up with SLA friends Denise, Kim G, and I met SIS Alumni president Joe I. Carolyn B was there, and we chatted about her daughter growing up.
A lovely evening.
Labels: biology, celebration, dine, lector, library, list, love, Mass, photos, read, school, seasons, St. Paul Cathedral, student, teaching, work
Choir Birthday Celebration 2010
Today after work I watched a fascinating movie with Mom called Madeleine about a Scottish murder in the 19th Century. It was based on a true story.
Choir practice led to practice of music from Easter Sunday (backwards in time) to Palm Sunday. Nancy prepared snacks, consisting of ice cream cake, creamery milk, pizza, and potato chips! I was thrilled, and grateful, for the grand gesture.
I look forward to singing the Masses and services during Holy Week.
Labels: Birthday, Bishop, Choir, Mass, St. Paul Cathedral, Zubik
This Week, March 2010
So, I haven't written because at the beginning of the week I had acute pain in my wrist and thumb. (There was no injury or trauma, just a gradual pain). I've been taking Tylenol and resting it. I was in so much pain Monday night/ Tuesday morning that I couldn't sleep mid-evening after awakening (for four hours)!
Tuesday after work I went to my primary care physician, who recommended X rays and nerve studies for me. I made appointments for those later this month.
Wednesday, I taught and then had office hours, during which I administered a quiz and I also discussed a scholarhip with a student who is asking for a letter of recommendation. There was a cameo appearance of my supervisor in office hours.
Thursday in the morning I worked on necessary paperwork, and then went to choir practice. Nancy, Regina, and I chatted over snacks by Karen. We celebrated Judi's birthday.
Today I was the lector for the Solemnity of St. Joseph, spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Father Bill D. celebrated, John served, and Ryan provided the music ministry. There were two readings before the Gospel. I saw Joe, Tina, and JoAnn walking with Gloria and joined them, thanking Joe for our tickets he provided for tonight.
I dropped off papers for my students at work, dropped off papers at an office near Marissa and William's home, and joined Marissa and the children for lunch and half the afternoon at the Pittsburgh Children's Museum (which had free admissions in honor of Mr. Rogers' birthday). We dined next to the Foucault pendulum (which Beatrice explained to me), visited exhibits, enjoyed gelato 
and (I brought mine to the theater, which had) a performance by a string quartet formed from members of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. I captured a video of Beatrice and Solomon dancing. We enjoyed doing artwork, and took some photos in the galleries, as well.
I took a nap and had a snack before Maureen and I went to McDonald's near downtown (I for a decaf hazelnut iced coffee and McDouble sandwich) before we enjoyed the Pittsburgh Symphony performance tonight. The program was
The Planets
with Yan Pascal Tortelier conducting
Randolph Kelly on viola
and women of the Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh
They performed first Harold in Italy by Berlioz (commissioned by Nicolo Paganini), inspired by the composer's travels in the Abruzzi region, the Adriatic. Mr. Kelly starred as soloist for this piece.
The Planets by Holst is a dramatic portrait of the deities associated with all planets in our solar system save our own. The Mercury and Jupiter movements held familiar themes, and the choir sang during the last movement, Neptune.
Labels: art, biology, Birthday, Choir, dine, dining, health, Mass, niece and nephew, photos, PSO, sleep, St. Paul Cathedral, student, work
