Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary 2012
Dad served on television ministry this morning for the Mass. Fr. Kris Stubna celebrated the Mass, Anu served, Nancy K and Sally D were Eucharistic ministers, and Don provided music ministry from the organ loft. A group from Oakland Catholic and one from Central Catholic, as well as a group of Brothers attended Mass.
~~~
Spent much of the day napping, as I suppose I'm trying to catch up from the Olympics.
I completed an art study this afternoon.
Labels: art, sleep, St. Paul Cathedral
M and M
Yesterday before choir practice I met with my friend V in Shadyside to review mitosis and meiosis concepts. She was firm, making me draw and explain each step of M & M, with the number of chromosomes, whether they are replicated or not, (sister) chromatids, and pairs of chromosomes. I did not look at the pictures and photos even once whilst doing this exercise. Then, she gave me a spoken exam with photos. Prophase was difficult to determine, but she said to look for the chromatin condensing into chromosomes to find that step.
Dinner and choir practice followed. Don started right on time and made us go through our paces, followed by an ordering of music in our folders. We were all psyched up in time for snacks, provided by Nancy C.
Labels: art, biology, Choir, friends, St. Paul Cathedral, work
Visiting the Library
This morning I went to work to print out my email attachments from my bosses. I ran into Paul C, and we chatted (as I did with Melanie and Zuzana last time I was there). Upon request, I sent Zuzana an email about Christmas choir Mass times this year.
Stopped at the Carnegie Library, where I visited with my friends there, and picked up a reserve book I saw recommended. I said hi to Cathy L, who will be retiring as the head of the Music Department at the end of the year (she said to say hello to my friend S and to ask him when he will be coming to Pittsburgh), Don W, and Lisa R (with whom I sat down and chatted with), and Sheila.
Headed to Mom and Dad's, whence I brought some of my papers home in the rain, and then settled down for a long winter's nap.
Dad called, and asked me to store some food in my freezer. I came over to their home, to find it empty of them.
Labels: biology, Carnegie, Choir, Christmas, food, friends, library, St. Paul Cathedral, teaching, travel, work
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
Missed Choir Practice, Choir this week
I missed choir practice & choir this past week, due to a lingering sore throat.
Friday I joined Jennifer & Mike, Regina & John at drumming.
I handed in the last of my wreath fundraising for choir today.
I missed singing for the Feast of Christ the King, but enjoyed the music from the congregation. I did sing the Lotti Agnus Dei (alto part).
Bishop William Winter was the main celebrant, with many other priests concelebrating. (Bishop Zubik is in Rome for Cardinal Wuerl's ordination.)
This morning I wrote letters of support for two former students and completed their PharmCAS reference letters this afternoon.
I will join up with John, Regina, and her parents to celebrate his birthday for dinner.
Labels: Choir, dining, friends, health, music, singing, Spain, St. Paul Cathedral
"Hail, Our Alma Mater..."
Wednesday late afternoon (after our Jeopardy! class for Introduction to Arts and Sciences) Jenny CD and Linda I arrived from the airport and from Cleveland, respectively. After dropping off Jenny's luggage, we headed to Victor's new restaurant, where we enjoyed 2 lamb dishes, a shrimp dish, a salmon dish, and a vegetarian dish with Amanda MS and Charles. It was great to see everyone again, and to have a photo....
We all stood outside, Jenny and I in thin sweaters as the temperatures had dipped from the 60s Fahrenheit to the 40s to 50s as the sun went down. Jenny drove Linda and I back to my parking lot, where we bid Linda a fond goodbye and safe trip. Jenny and I tucked into our respective beds by 23.30, and I awoke about 6.30 Thursday.
Thursday Jenny and I visited St. Paul Cathedral and my workplace. We walked to get eggs over easy, Lyonnaise potatoes, bacon, and wheat toast as well as croissant French toast (and coffee for Jenny). We then headed to the Cathedral of Learning, touring the higher floors before the lower floors of Nationality Rooms first. We then toured the Frick Arts Building (the library, the Jello courtyard exhibit, and the U Pitt Museum Studies Class's exhibit SLAG: What's left after industry?), and the Carnegie Library and Institute. As we left the Carnegie, we opened the door for Marissa and Solomon, and Beatrice and Les.
After loading Jenny's bag into the car, we departed; I for work and she for lunch with her husband's former intern.
Labels: art, Beatrice, biology, Carnegie, dining, international culture, library, Marietta, mountains, organ, organizing, painting, photos, Pittsburgh, reunion, school, sleep, St. Paul Cathedral, work
Locust Iste--October 2010
Today was the 104th Anniversary of the Dedication of St. Paul Cathedral in Pittsburgh. Don directed the music, Ken provided the bulk of the organ music (save the postlude, which was played by Don), and we sang:
For Builders Bold,
Kyrie (from Messe Solenelle, Louis Vierne)
Gloria (from Messe Solenelle, Louis Vierne)
Psalm 122 (Murray/Gelineau)
Gospel Acclamations (J. Berthier; R. Proulx)
Preparation of the Gifts: Locust Iste (A. Bruckner)
Agnus Dei--Chant
Communion:
Agnus Dei (from Messe Solenelle, Louis Vierne)
Church of God (S. Daly)
Ave Verum (Charles Gounoud)
Recessional hynm:
Holy God, We Praise Thy Name
Labels: anniversary, Birthday, Church, St. Paul Cathedral
Pamela's Diner, Adam's Organ Concert, and Annual Building Picnic
Maureen and I went early to a branch of Pamela’s Diner for breakfast. I had the Lincoln Special—two eggs, meat, Lyonnaise potatoes, and two hotcakes. MMM good! We discussed a book I have been assigned to read by one of my friends, which explains why he doesn’t want to take photographs any more. (It’s a novel / roman). I am about half way through the novel, and it is slow going, as it is stream of consciousness, with no paragraph breaks.
I prepared for class tomorrow and I attended Adam J. Brakel’s organ concert, the close of the summer concert series at Saint Paul Cathedral.
He opened with an impressive piece by Max Reger, Fanasia and Fuge in d minor, opus 135b (double fugue), followed by
Komm, Heileger Geist, Herre Gott (Franz Tunder)
Herr Jesu Christ, dich zu uns wend (J.S. Bach) from Leipzig chorales
St. Francis of Paola Walking on the Waves (Franz Lizst) translated to organ by Lionel Rogg
Scherzo from Symphony VI (Louis Vierne)
Hamburger Totentanz (Guy Bovet)
Adam chose, as usual, pieces that showcased his virtuosity, especially the Lizst and Vierne pieces, with rushing cascading notes from the stiff-keyed von Beckerath instrument. I had a chance to chat with various others from the congregation space after the concert, including with Adam.
The annual building picnic was great fun, I sat with Margery and Cheryl from my floor, Nancy from the floor above, and Roger, Richard, and his wife as well. The food was delicious, as usual.
I am tired, and will retire early this evening in preparation to teach tomorrow.
Labels: dining, friends, music, neighbors, organ, St. Paul Cathedral
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
Holy Trinity Sunday 2010
Before choir practice today, Judi gave me great advice about electronics!
After choir and Mass (during which James W's mom, James W's mom's son, and Stephanie sang with us; as well as Christina Mc sang as a chorister), Stacy, Regina, and I dined on pan-Asian food. I tried the Lard Nar (LUV those wiiide nooodles!), chit chatted about about relationships, and enjoyed our lunches (and for some of us, smoothies). As we exited, we ran into Charles, who was also on the way to pan-Asian bliss (a.k.a. noodles with chicken). I joined him, we chatted over lunch about our summer plans, and parted ways.
I caught a three-hour nap, and am making lists for this summer...Also catching up on email.
Labels: Choir, dining, email, friends, list, Marietta, St. Paul Cathedral, travel, visitor
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
Grading Update, Spring 2010
So, I officially finished grading all questions for all my students in all my sections on all assignments at 9.49 this morning.
Now, I just need to:
Add the scores from the subtotals
Calculate the score for the final
Calculate the percent right on the final
Enter the final grades in the grade spreadsheets
Calculate course scores/grades
Calculate course letter grades (with + or -)
Much of this can be done with calculators, spreadsheets, and grade break/cutoff information.
I'll take Mom and Dad out for lunch today to celebrate!
Time for a little relaxation before choir practice.
Labels: biology, celebration, Choir, dining, relax, school, St. Paul Cathedral, 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
Easter Week 2010
Easter Week 2010--I had my Monday and Thursday classes rate their classes (via the Office of Measurement and Evaluation) this week. One of my current students, K, was the evaluator from OMET today ("You can say what you REALLY think of this class. I won't see the evaluations until after your grades are posted.") As usual, I dressed for photosynthesis week.
I had two students request recommendations from me: One, a current student, K, for pharmacy school, and the second, a former student, Y, for rehabilitation sciences school. Just today C, a former student, told me that she had switched from pre-pharmacy to nutrition and dietetics, and hopes to go to graduate school in genetic counseling.
My birthday was fun!! Tuesday was my Pilipina celebration for lunch at Taco Bell with Mom, Dad, Auntie Chi, Marissa, and the two children. We then went around the Waterworks Mall. We ran into Les and Chere there. Tuesday night William and his family took me out for dinner at Sun Penang, a Malaysian restaurant in Squirrel Hill. We enjoyed an eggplant dish (spicy), a tofu dish, chicken coconut milk fried rice, shrimp dim sum, and Asian sponge cake for dessert (as per Beatrice's request). We also went to Cold Stone Creamery for Solomon and my birthday ice cream. I had dark chocolate ice cream with brownie mix-ins (a la Steve's, now defunct in Harvard Square).
Wednesday when I arrived about 15.30 at Mom and Dad's we had a homemade carrot cake with whipped cream icing. Mom, Dad, Auntie Chi sang to me, and I blew out the candles. We enjoyed the cake, and then drove Auntie Chi to the airport. I took an hour nap, then it was time for parish pastoral council. We had pizza, cake, and drinks. We broke into break-out groups and Roseanne and I worked on the web page together with Fr. Kim. Quite productive. Roseanne and I prioritized the work.
Labels: biology, Birthday, chocolate, family, family-Marissa, ice cream, niece and nephew, pastoral council, sleep, St. Paul Cathedral, student, transportation, work
