Habemus Papam!

The new Pope was announced today -- Pope Francis I (formerly Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio of Argentina). After four votes: a Jesuit, age 76. May God bless him with many years, peace, and insight. We were able to watch the balcony scene via live streaming before we had to leave for afternoon violin lessons.

Why We Like Atchison

Spring break, and it was time for dental cleanings. We always try to make the most of our time at the dentist, who is located in the little town of Atchison, Kansas.  Meggar and I perused "Nell Hills" to see its spring and Easter decor. We took Polar Bear and Spencer to the "Marigold Bakery & Cafe" for soup and sandwiches too. Could have used more shopping time, but it was a yummy day.

Last Day - Lost & Found

After some songs on the piano,

we made a short visit to the hangar to see all of Captain's fleet. Meggar was heading to KC for a piano lesson with her former teacher and to visit Melanie, who's in the hospital awaiting more test results. Then we got ready to say our good-byes to Uncle Clint and Aunt Kathryn and little Ana (who even slept in the toddler bed we placed in her parent's room). But Kathryn couldn't find her wallet and I.D. First, we turned the car inside out and checked all over the house. Then we started calling the restaurant and church to see if it was in lost and found. We had finally given up and they were closing the door to the van when Meggar noticed she and Kathryn have the exact same trench coat from Old Navy, and she had grabbed the wrong one. Sure enough, the one in the closet had the wallet in its pocket. Still made it to the airport on time!

Sacrament of Confirmation

Polar Bear
(St. Christ- opher)

Winger
(St. Joseph)

 Bishop Finn

 Proud Captain

Family

 Sponsor: Spencer Rusch

 Sponsor: Uncle Clint

Confirmation was a glorious day here!

Beautiful ceremony and music. I made a huge meal prior to the afternoon mass to feed Carey's family, Clint's family and my own. We had red charger plates to make a fancy table with china and crystal. The feast was rosemary pork loin, stuffing, cheesy potatoes, strawberry salad, sweet green beans, grilled asparagus, rolls, wine (note the red elements as symbolic of the Holy Spirit). 

Afterwards, our Bishop Finn and his deacon came over for sandwiches, hors d'oeuvres, and desserts buffet. It was great to compare notes on the events in Rome last week and to speculate about the coming days! We hosted the Schiebers (Alison was the confirmation sponsor of Meggar), the Leonards (Uncle Carey was confirmation sponsor for Reid), and the Bridgewaters (almost part of the family). I must say that I also enjoyed the food: croissant sandwiches, taco dip, hummus dip, artichoke dip, deviled eggs, stuffed mushrooms, BLT bites (cherry tomatoes stuffed with mayo/bacon/green onion), veggie tray, fruit tray (blackberries, pears, strawberries) cheese cake, cranberry cake, red velvet cupcakes, and almond/coconut cake (in shape of a cross).

Fruit of the Spirit #9

(Confirmation Prep) -- Faithfulness
We know the importance of loyalty in many situations: with friends, with sports teams, with coaches -- even when the people on the other side of an issue may not "deserve" your loyalty. But in a GREATER way, we are called to stand faithfully by our Catholic doctrine -- in our faith, hope, and love for God -- no matter what.

1 Samuel 12:24--“Only fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart. For consider what great things he has done for you.”  
We see throughout the Old Testament how God was faithful to the Hebrew people and renewed his covenant again and again with them. Those old stories tell us the great things He did for them to show they were the Chosen People! In a similar way, God has done great things for Christians through the ages, which we read about in saint stories. And he has blessed our own family with miracles. I know you will continue to serve God and see what blessings he brings to you!

The flip side of faithfulness is being ready to Evangelize. We walked door-to-door this year so you know what that is like. It is important to talk proudly about your Catholic lifestyle to other people/friends. Believe me, people notice when you go to mass on hockey weekends. Plus the world is interested to know the details of our Catholic culture, especially this month as the cardinals meet in Conclave to elect a new Pope! All the rituals, vestments, songs, and liturgical seasons enrich our life and keep us in closer relationship with Jesus. Remember it's not only by the things you say when you talk about church, but by your living example that you can evangelize our American society, who has wandered far away from Christ. Being confirmed means you are making a firm choice to remain Faithful all your life.

All in the Family

Meggar is home for half of her spring break! And Spencer is here. Also, Uncle Clint and Aunt Kathryn have arrived from Phoenix for the Confirmation tomorrow. (Most people from Kansas City go to Phoenix during spring break, not the other way around!)

Toddler Ana is a hit with everyone: she walks, she talks, she giggles. And Winger found out how much she likes books!

Confirmation Prep

The twins and I went to Friday mass and confession. All set for Confirmation this weekend. Those who receive the sacrament in the state of grace will benefit from a more complete reception of the Holy Spirit!