So...as this semester is winding down, I am taking a little breather here during Thanksgiving Break! I am writing from my brother's kitchen in Gastonia, North Carolina....even as my sister-in-law, Jen, is preparing a gigantic meal for 26 people tomorrow. Of course, not all family, but it is Thanksgiving. In that spirit, I am reminded of how much I have to be Thankful for this year. Although transitioning continues to be a challenge for me, I am so Thankful for my home congregation, in their continued support and prayer and for my friends and family.
I was actually very stressed about being here at home for Thanksgiving, but it has actually been nice so far. I am reminded of how much I miss my family; of course, we haven't ventured to my mother's house yet. We are going over there for a family get together tonight- minus my brother since his wife's family is arriving today. My sister Myra and I went and ate Sushi today after my CPE interview this morning. It was a first for me. Myra's fiance Tony is also here. It's becoming more clear to me why they are getting married. He is a genuinely nice guy with a great personality. My sister's partner arrived today too. I haven't met her yet but everything I have heard about her I like. Tamara's kids aren't here this year but I am also enjoying spending time with my niece and nephew too. So...lots of family stuff; so far so good.
School has been continually more stressful as I get closer to the end of the semester, but I am trying to keep things in perspective and just one thing at a time....that is all I can do after all! So...I am now going to go...so I can work on a paper for a little bit. Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Be sure to count your blessings! May the peace of God be with you all.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
A little more Anti-Racism, Justification and just a few more papers later....
So for me, this semester is going by so fast. As I've been counting the days to Christmas Break, today marks 30 days till the day that I will be home in Texas! I am going to North Carolina, my native home, for Thanksgiving Break, courtesy of my baby sister Myra. I am looking forward to spending time with family, but since I am leaving so soon after break, I'll probably be spending most of my break, working on final papers....BUT I won't be missing the game or a few beers for sure!
So this semester over all has been pretty stressful yet a serious spiritual shift for me. And I honestly think, that's what the professors are wanting! My class had a class forum tonight; as there has seemed to be some tension going on. I have to say I do feel better about my class. It is tough being single, so far from home, but even more than that is feeling so alone in my concerns within myself. That's something I've been working on ALL semester, but something I've got to get batter at as I prepare for my CPE.
Speaking of CPE....I had my interview a few weeks ago. I teared up talking to the supervisor about things, as I tend to get emotional when talking about my own spirituality these days. All in all the interview went well; I'm assuming that since the supervisor asked me to apply to his location! I currently have 4 applications out. One at John Hopkins in Baltimore, which is my first choice. I have a college friend, Beth, who lives there who has offered to house me and her church has offered to help with the expenses. So we'll see,.....cause it's hard to get in there! I've applied to Carolina's Medical in Charlotte. It'd be cool to be near my family. I'm hoping to interview there over Thanksgiving. Then last but not least, I've applied to 2 hospitals in Dallas area; Children's Medical and Baylor Medical. Both are wanting to interview me in January; convenient since I"ll be there. I hope to have my official report back within the next few weeks from the dude that interviewed me. Some of my colleagues already for theirs back!
Along with paper deadlines, these past few weeks have had a little added stress with preparing for my baby sister's wedding. It all ended up working out in the end, but I hope to be able to communicate better my feelings to my family. That's the disadvantage of being away from family for so long, that we all tend to pretend we all know each other well...when in reality, I feel sometimes, like I hardly know them. I am to blame and am at fault in a large part of that. I hope to do better by my family, so that one day our relationships will be better.
So in my title sentence I mentioned Anti-Racism and justification. In my justification and justice class, we've spent a great deal talking about cultural diversity and how important anti-racism is. Then last Friday, we had a whole day workshop on that topic. Long day, but overall it was good stuff.
I am appreciating my colleagues more and more. I really enjoy our small group Spiritual practice class. (Shout out to Andrew, Gravy, Alyssa, Megan and Abagail and our professor Susan....WHO ALL ROCK!!!) It allows a more intimate session to really dig deeper into things. Spiritual practice for me, has been the most stirring class I've had this semester. I get frustrated that they lecture on all this really deep stuff that STIRS all this great spiritual stuff and right after class, I go into my Justification and justice and can't concentrate because my head is swimming from all the SP stuff! I expressed that concern with a professor today. I hope that will change for next year.
I have to just brag on one of my best friends Julie here. She has been my "rock" since I've been here. She listens to my complaints about my classes, my frustrations, my anger, my sadness, my loneliness, my revelations and just continues each day to surprise me with just the right thing to say to pick me up or make me smile. She reminds me each day that I am loved and missed. Not having a spouse, family, my home congregation or significant other to share all this, has been really hard for me. But I just have to say that I have the coolest Best Friend ever and I am eternally grateful.
So I have 30 more days, and 6 papers and then surgery next month. That I am NOT looking forward to that, but I have to get it done to continue to be functional next summer for CPE.
So to all reading....May God continue to bless and keep you. Peace!
So this semester over all has been pretty stressful yet a serious spiritual shift for me. And I honestly think, that's what the professors are wanting! My class had a class forum tonight; as there has seemed to be some tension going on. I have to say I do feel better about my class. It is tough being single, so far from home, but even more than that is feeling so alone in my concerns within myself. That's something I've been working on ALL semester, but something I've got to get batter at as I prepare for my CPE.
Speaking of CPE....I had my interview a few weeks ago. I teared up talking to the supervisor about things, as I tend to get emotional when talking about my own spirituality these days. All in all the interview went well; I'm assuming that since the supervisor asked me to apply to his location! I currently have 4 applications out. One at John Hopkins in Baltimore, which is my first choice. I have a college friend, Beth, who lives there who has offered to house me and her church has offered to help with the expenses. So we'll see,.....cause it's hard to get in there! I've applied to Carolina's Medical in Charlotte. It'd be cool to be near my family. I'm hoping to interview there over Thanksgiving. Then last but not least, I've applied to 2 hospitals in Dallas area; Children's Medical and Baylor Medical. Both are wanting to interview me in January; convenient since I"ll be there. I hope to have my official report back within the next few weeks from the dude that interviewed me. Some of my colleagues already for theirs back!
Along with paper deadlines, these past few weeks have had a little added stress with preparing for my baby sister's wedding. It all ended up working out in the end, but I hope to be able to communicate better my feelings to my family. That's the disadvantage of being away from family for so long, that we all tend to pretend we all know each other well...when in reality, I feel sometimes, like I hardly know them. I am to blame and am at fault in a large part of that. I hope to do better by my family, so that one day our relationships will be better.
So in my title sentence I mentioned Anti-Racism and justification. In my justification and justice class, we've spent a great deal talking about cultural diversity and how important anti-racism is. Then last Friday, we had a whole day workshop on that topic. Long day, but overall it was good stuff.
I am appreciating my colleagues more and more. I really enjoy our small group Spiritual practice class. (Shout out to Andrew, Gravy, Alyssa, Megan and Abagail and our professor Susan....WHO ALL ROCK!!!) It allows a more intimate session to really dig deeper into things. Spiritual practice for me, has been the most stirring class I've had this semester. I get frustrated that they lecture on all this really deep stuff that STIRS all this great spiritual stuff and right after class, I go into my Justification and justice and can't concentrate because my head is swimming from all the SP stuff! I expressed that concern with a professor today. I hope that will change for next year.
I have to just brag on one of my best friends Julie here. She has been my "rock" since I've been here. She listens to my complaints about my classes, my frustrations, my anger, my sadness, my loneliness, my revelations and just continues each day to surprise me with just the right thing to say to pick me up or make me smile. She reminds me each day that I am loved and missed. Not having a spouse, family, my home congregation or significant other to share all this, has been really hard for me. But I just have to say that I have the coolest Best Friend ever and I am eternally grateful.
So I have 30 more days, and 6 papers and then surgery next month. That I am NOT looking forward to that, but I have to get it done to continue to be functional next summer for CPE.
So to all reading....May God continue to bless and keep you. Peace!
Just a few pics to share....This is us studying (yeah right....) at a local winery one Sunday afternoon! (Andrew, Shannon and Emily)
2 weeks ago, I led chapel and wore my cleric collar for the first time. Scary huh? (Yeah, I thought so too!)
The first pic is of my buddy, Mara. She and I usually sit next to each other in classes. Cool friend!
Blogging....coming up....Peace!
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Octoberfest and leaves at their peak....and SO am I!
Greetings all my fellow readers!
Happy Reformation Sunday for all the Lutherans reading! Today was "suppose" to be a day to commemorate the birth of what is now the Lutheran church. In years past, at St. Luke's my home church, as well as others I have attended, this SHOULD be a boisterous day of celebration. With Fanfare, trumpets blazing, Almighty Fortress being sung at the top of your lungs and flags and banners being waved as high as the steeples......yeah, I was sorely disappointed today! NOT the fanfare was expecting. Just an ordinary service. The only difference was that there were those "faithful" Lutheran's who were sure to wear their "RED" today in commemoration....and to match the colors of the church today. Didn't happen today, but I did treat myself to a nice brunch today in Galena with some fellow seminary students who did NOT share my enthusiam for this day, so once again, I felt deflated.
This past Thursday was my birthday. I REALLY was trying to allow people to forget, but there were a few classmates who insisted in remembering it and buying me a small cake with the numbers "29" on top! That definately made me smile! For the last several years, I have always celebrated my birthday with my friend Roxanne, who didn't even remember to call me on my birthday! But Julie on the other hand probably called me about 5-6 times, so she saved the day! I took it as a sign! A sign that birthdays do not need to be a day about remembering your birth but to mark where you have been and looking forward to what is ahead. Perhaps I have been spending too much time in deep thought about my own spirituality these past few months, as most of my classmates have, but I am just amazed of all that God continues for me to have in my life, I am so blessed with many things that many people go without and I am marveled everyday of God's creation, in watching the foliage change here. It is truly stunning. It also makes me mindful of my purpose and calling everyday; and I am so Thankful.
Classes are continuing to go well. It is starting to get very stressful....although I am trying to concentrate on one week at a time; my challenge is, because I a leaving early for Christmas because of my surgery, I am trying to stay one week ahead, but that is becoming a difficult challenge too. I spent 2 whole days REALLY studying hard for my first Jesus and Gospels exam and didn't do well. But I did really well on my first History paper. So I guess I just have to slow down and take my time to get through all this. My work study is continuing to go well. I work at 3 different elementary schools. Each has their own challenging students that I have to learn to work with, but it isn't easy! I was fired this week from my State Farm job; on my birthday! I was only working there 6-7 hrs a week, so NOT a huge loss. I can make up those hours with work study and quite honestly, it was becoming challenging to study those 2 nights after I got off work, because I'd be too exhausted! So perhaps this was a blessing in disguise. I told the employment agency that I'd rather just work on Friday and Saturdays only, so I can keep Sundays as my day off to relax and spend each evening during the week studying. We'll see how it all goes, I guess.
So as I mentioned in my last blog, my knee replacement surgery is scheduled for December 14th...just my left knee to be replaced. I keep going back and forth about whether or not I will have it done. I've just been thinking how "taxing" this is going to have to be on my best friend and her family, since Julie will be the primary one taking care of me. She ALREADY has her hands full with her daughter, husband and life, that to add "taking care of Rosy" after surgery, may be to much to ask. She of course, has told me over and over again, that "they will manage and be ok", but I just don't know if I want to put someone through all this. So there lies my debate....should I or should I not! I KNOW it needs to get done, I'm just wondering if this Christmas is a good time or not. We'll see I guess.
Octoberfest was celebrated here on Campus this Friday. I was feeling sooo sick that I REALLY missed out on all the fun. There was polka dancing, lots of BEER and bratwurst and an all night party. I left around 8:30 because under all the medication I was on to kill my cold, I felt like I couldn;t drink that much beer. But I heard there were others, who were in my class and shall remain nameless, who DID take advantage of all the beer! It was even on of my new Favorites,....."Blue Moon"! Some students even decorated Marty too! Some students carved a HUGE pumpkin and placed it on Marty's head in the main quad. It was a nice touch for all the festivities.
Today in Dubuque, is a BEAUTIFUL Fall perfect day. I just want to take a blanket and lay under one of the big trees outside and watch the leaves fall ALL DAY, but I do have 3 papers to write, so I better get moving.....Peace to all reading and God bless and keep you all.
Happy Reformation Sunday for all the Lutherans reading! Today was "suppose" to be a day to commemorate the birth of what is now the Lutheran church. In years past, at St. Luke's my home church, as well as others I have attended, this SHOULD be a boisterous day of celebration. With Fanfare, trumpets blazing, Almighty Fortress being sung at the top of your lungs and flags and banners being waved as high as the steeples......yeah, I was sorely disappointed today! NOT the fanfare was expecting. Just an ordinary service. The only difference was that there were those "faithful" Lutheran's who were sure to wear their "RED" today in commemoration....and to match the colors of the church today. Didn't happen today, but I did treat myself to a nice brunch today in Galena with some fellow seminary students who did NOT share my enthusiam for this day, so once again, I felt deflated.
This past Thursday was my birthday. I REALLY was trying to allow people to forget, but there were a few classmates who insisted in remembering it and buying me a small cake with the numbers "29" on top! That definately made me smile! For the last several years, I have always celebrated my birthday with my friend Roxanne, who didn't even remember to call me on my birthday! But Julie on the other hand probably called me about 5-6 times, so she saved the day! I took it as a sign! A sign that birthdays do not need to be a day about remembering your birth but to mark where you have been and looking forward to what is ahead. Perhaps I have been spending too much time in deep thought about my own spirituality these past few months, as most of my classmates have, but I am just amazed of all that God continues for me to have in my life, I am so blessed with many things that many people go without and I am marveled everyday of God's creation, in watching the foliage change here. It is truly stunning. It also makes me mindful of my purpose and calling everyday; and I am so Thankful.
Classes are continuing to go well. It is starting to get very stressful....although I am trying to concentrate on one week at a time; my challenge is, because I a leaving early for Christmas because of my surgery, I am trying to stay one week ahead, but that is becoming a difficult challenge too. I spent 2 whole days REALLY studying hard for my first Jesus and Gospels exam and didn't do well. But I did really well on my first History paper. So I guess I just have to slow down and take my time to get through all this. My work study is continuing to go well. I work at 3 different elementary schools. Each has their own challenging students that I have to learn to work with, but it isn't easy! I was fired this week from my State Farm job; on my birthday! I was only working there 6-7 hrs a week, so NOT a huge loss. I can make up those hours with work study and quite honestly, it was becoming challenging to study those 2 nights after I got off work, because I'd be too exhausted! So perhaps this was a blessing in disguise. I told the employment agency that I'd rather just work on Friday and Saturdays only, so I can keep Sundays as my day off to relax and spend each evening during the week studying. We'll see how it all goes, I guess.
So as I mentioned in my last blog, my knee replacement surgery is scheduled for December 14th...just my left knee to be replaced. I keep going back and forth about whether or not I will have it done. I've just been thinking how "taxing" this is going to have to be on my best friend and her family, since Julie will be the primary one taking care of me. She ALREADY has her hands full with her daughter, husband and life, that to add "taking care of Rosy" after surgery, may be to much to ask. She of course, has told me over and over again, that "they will manage and be ok", but I just don't know if I want to put someone through all this. So there lies my debate....should I or should I not! I KNOW it needs to get done, I'm just wondering if this Christmas is a good time or not. We'll see I guess.
Octoberfest was celebrated here on Campus this Friday. I was feeling sooo sick that I REALLY missed out on all the fun. There was polka dancing, lots of BEER and bratwurst and an all night party. I left around 8:30 because under all the medication I was on to kill my cold, I felt like I couldn;t drink that much beer. But I heard there were others, who were in my class and shall remain nameless, who DID take advantage of all the beer! It was even on of my new Favorites,....."Blue Moon"! Some students even decorated Marty too! Some students carved a HUGE pumpkin and placed it on Marty's head in the main quad. It was a nice touch for all the festivities.
Today in Dubuque, is a BEAUTIFUL Fall perfect day. I just want to take a blanket and lay under one of the big trees outside and watch the leaves fall ALL DAY, but I do have 3 papers to write, so I better get moving.....Peace to all reading and God bless and keep you all.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
And the there was....SNOW!!!!
Hello everyone! SOOOO sorry for my delay in posting blogs. Have been swamped this week. We just had our Fall break last weekend...but I spent ALLL weekend studying, so I've been taking a little time to relax yesterday and today, although, I do have MUCH to do!
Last Saturday...we had SNOW! Yes, SNOW in October! It only snowed for a couple of hours and didn't stick; believe it not, it wasn't COLD enough! Although I have been FREEZING here! Just went to Goodwill yesterday to see if I could find some warmer clothes!
Still continuing to work part time at State Farm although I am concerned that I may not be there that much longer. I am suppose to call people and talk them into getting an auto quote for insurance. I am SUPPOSE to get 3-5 people per night on a 3 hr shift twice a week. Last week I had a grand total of "0"...that's right ZERO and the new girl they hired just 2 weeks ago, got all five in less calls and in ONE night! Needless to say, I STINK at telemarketing! Although I have to admit that it has helped me improve my phone presence; at least people don't say I'm being a "b" when I talk to them! I'm just having some serious issues overcoming objections and quite frankly, I don;t want the pressure of the job, so I may not be there that much longer.
This past Thursday in my Spiritual Practices class, we had the opportunity to take some time to work through a paper labyrith, My classmate, "Gravy" (Eric Grayvold) had shared that he had never walked a real labyrith before, so today I took him to the one at the Sinsanawa retreat center. Then we headed over to Galena for lunch...since he hadn't been there either! I told him he needed to get out more! Tonight a couple of people are getting together for Birthday celebrations....mine of course is this week. Not looking forward to it, but it will be here whether I want to be or not.
Classes are continuing to go well. Lots of papers and reading to do, but I am still loving it. Trying to stay ahead with everything so I've been studying A LOT. I have scheduled my knee surgery for December 14th. So I am leaving for home, Dallas, December 9th. I sure hope I am making the right decision about getting it done. My baby sister had me all freaked out about it, but I think I need to go ahead and get it done so I can complete my CPE next summer. I hope to be in Baltimore, MD. My good friend from college, Beth, lives there and I'd be staying with her while I completed it. Her church is even going to help with some expenses, which will be nice. I am also applying to do CPE in Charlotte, NC and Dallas of course. I AM still very home sick, but it's getting easier. I am just trying to stay focussed on my purpose and what I am here to accomplish and one day become.
It is beautiful here. The foilage peak is nearing here. It's been a LONG time since I've been able to enjoy the leave changing colors, so its been nice seeing nature just change before your eyes! I LOVE it! Make me feel closer to God to just spend time in nature....not that I don't already; considering where I am! Well...speaking of where I am...we have Chapel tonight and I have to help with guitar playing, so I've gotta go!
May the road rise to meet you, may the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm on your face. May the rain fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand. Peace to all.
Last Saturday...we had SNOW! Yes, SNOW in October! It only snowed for a couple of hours and didn't stick; believe it not, it wasn't COLD enough! Although I have been FREEZING here! Just went to Goodwill yesterday to see if I could find some warmer clothes!
Still continuing to work part time at State Farm although I am concerned that I may not be there that much longer. I am suppose to call people and talk them into getting an auto quote for insurance. I am SUPPOSE to get 3-5 people per night on a 3 hr shift twice a week. Last week I had a grand total of "0"...that's right ZERO and the new girl they hired just 2 weeks ago, got all five in less calls and in ONE night! Needless to say, I STINK at telemarketing! Although I have to admit that it has helped me improve my phone presence; at least people don't say I'm being a "b" when I talk to them! I'm just having some serious issues overcoming objections and quite frankly, I don;t want the pressure of the job, so I may not be there that much longer.
This past Thursday in my Spiritual Practices class, we had the opportunity to take some time to work through a paper labyrith, My classmate, "Gravy" (Eric Grayvold) had shared that he had never walked a real labyrith before, so today I took him to the one at the Sinsanawa retreat center. Then we headed over to Galena for lunch...since he hadn't been there either! I told him he needed to get out more! Tonight a couple of people are getting together for Birthday celebrations....mine of course is this week. Not looking forward to it, but it will be here whether I want to be or not.
Classes are continuing to go well. Lots of papers and reading to do, but I am still loving it. Trying to stay ahead with everything so I've been studying A LOT. I have scheduled my knee surgery for December 14th. So I am leaving for home, Dallas, December 9th. I sure hope I am making the right decision about getting it done. My baby sister had me all freaked out about it, but I think I need to go ahead and get it done so I can complete my CPE next summer. I hope to be in Baltimore, MD. My good friend from college, Beth, lives there and I'd be staying with her while I completed it. Her church is even going to help with some expenses, which will be nice. I am also applying to do CPE in Charlotte, NC and Dallas of course. I AM still very home sick, but it's getting easier. I am just trying to stay focussed on my purpose and what I am here to accomplish and one day become.
It is beautiful here. The foilage peak is nearing here. It's been a LONG time since I've been able to enjoy the leave changing colors, so its been nice seeing nature just change before your eyes! I LOVE it! Make me feel closer to God to just spend time in nature....not that I don't already; considering where I am! Well...speaking of where I am...we have Chapel tonight and I have to help with guitar playing, so I've gotta go!
May the road rise to meet you, may the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm on your face. May the rain fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand. Peace to all.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
73 more days.....
Yup...that's exactly how many days I have until my Christmas Break! I'm already counting!!! So these last few weeks haven't been that bad a I guess. I had hoped to complete this first paper due this Tuesday, but I'm not quite done with all the readings...UGH! I'm not entirely convinced I EVER will be! Classes are going really well. I had a VERY AWESOME surprise this week! My Pastor came up to see me for a few hours on Tuesday evening. He took me out for a steak dinner and beer which I loved! Then to breakfast on Wednesday morning. He even sat in on one of my classes. While it was sooo nice seeing someone from home, it made me home sick allll over again! I was just starting to feel like I was starting to adjust to being away from my small circle of friends and church family....then I felt sad all over again! But it was worth it. It was really nice spending time with Pete. Seems like we never did much of that before I left Dallas, which I regret.
So I went and had my knees evaluated here in Dubuque and the Dr. said he did not recommend me waiting to at LEAST have my left knee done as soon as possible. So now I am considering whether I should have the left knee replaced over Christmas Break/ J-Term. I'm going back and forth about the decision, as I want to make sure I have enough recuperation time to get back to school at the end of January. My sister, Myra, is convinced that if I have it done, I won't be coming back to school! I dunno...I guess all I can do is pray about it at this point.
My CPE paperwork is due soon. I have decided to apply to a couple of different places. My primary choice is going to be in Baltimore, MD. I'll be staying with a college friend of mine while I go do my CPE at John Hopkins; but their program is very tough to get in, so we'll see. I have 4 different essays to write for the application, so hopefully it'll go well.
Weather has DEFINITELY started getting cold here. I've been wearing long sleeve shirts and sweaters all week! The highs have been in the 50's and the night lows in the 30-40's ALREADY! Boy oh boy....am I in BIG trouble for the winter if I think this is cold, huh?
I have started helping at St. Peter's with some Youth/Kids programming. I'm going to be assisting with a program on Sunday evenings once a month and one on Thursday evenings once a month. St. Peter's had a HUGE service today to commemorate the kick off of their 100th year. It was a neat service. I really enjoyed it! I stuck around afterwards to interview the church's youth minister and his wife as one of my interviews for my Spiritual practices class. They are a really neat couple. I do hope to also start helping feed some of the homeless people in Dubuque at a Soup kitchen through a church downtown.
A few more weeks till my 39th birthday....NOT looking forward to that! One more year closer to 40....yikes! Gonna be a depressing day for sure!
So we have our reading days coming up at the end of this week. I REALLY wanted to go camping, but I think I'll be staying here at the dorms taking my defensive driving class that I need to get done before the end of this month. (for a ticket I got just before I left Dallas!) Haven't been taking too many excursion trips. Trying to save money and not use my car as much....but I may go somewhere over this long weekend coming up. Its gonna be boring around the dorm. Most everyone is going home for a visit. I just couldn't afford a ticket to do that. So here I will be!
Sorry this wasn't more exciting...just been busy with classes, studying and COUNTING the days to Christmas! Many blessings to all reading. Peace Out!
So I went and had my knees evaluated here in Dubuque and the Dr. said he did not recommend me waiting to at LEAST have my left knee done as soon as possible. So now I am considering whether I should have the left knee replaced over Christmas Break/ J-Term. I'm going back and forth about the decision, as I want to make sure I have enough recuperation time to get back to school at the end of January. My sister, Myra, is convinced that if I have it done, I won't be coming back to school! I dunno...I guess all I can do is pray about it at this point.
My CPE paperwork is due soon. I have decided to apply to a couple of different places. My primary choice is going to be in Baltimore, MD. I'll be staying with a college friend of mine while I go do my CPE at John Hopkins; but their program is very tough to get in, so we'll see. I have 4 different essays to write for the application, so hopefully it'll go well.
Weather has DEFINITELY started getting cold here. I've been wearing long sleeve shirts and sweaters all week! The highs have been in the 50's and the night lows in the 30-40's ALREADY! Boy oh boy....am I in BIG trouble for the winter if I think this is cold, huh?
I have started helping at St. Peter's with some Youth/Kids programming. I'm going to be assisting with a program on Sunday evenings once a month and one on Thursday evenings once a month. St. Peter's had a HUGE service today to commemorate the kick off of their 100th year. It was a neat service. I really enjoyed it! I stuck around afterwards to interview the church's youth minister and his wife as one of my interviews for my Spiritual practices class. They are a really neat couple. I do hope to also start helping feed some of the homeless people in Dubuque at a Soup kitchen through a church downtown.
A few more weeks till my 39th birthday....NOT looking forward to that! One more year closer to 40....yikes! Gonna be a depressing day for sure!
So we have our reading days coming up at the end of this week. I REALLY wanted to go camping, but I think I'll be staying here at the dorms taking my defensive driving class that I need to get done before the end of this month. (for a ticket I got just before I left Dallas!) Haven't been taking too many excursion trips. Trying to save money and not use my car as much....but I may go somewhere over this long weekend coming up. Its gonna be boring around the dorm. Most everyone is going home for a visit. I just couldn't afford a ticket to do that. So here I will be!
Sorry this wasn't more exciting...just been busy with classes, studying and COUNTING the days to Christmas! Many blessings to all reading. Peace Out!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Whew....breathe in, breathe out...yup. Still here!
Well...that opening statement is about what it FEELS like about now. A whirlwind of papers to write, entire books to read within a few days, meetings, convocations, Student council gatherings, chapel, work study, swimming, oh and lest we forget, DON'T FORGET TO PRAY!!!! Yup, that's about what it has felt like over the last 2 weeks!!!! But in a good way...
The first week, last week was a week of contemplative, theological analysis of what I think religion is, what my personal feelings are on Christianity as a whole, learning more about Dubuque and its vast religious community and figuring out what that means to me! TRANSLATION: Lots of readings, lectures and small group discussions plus 2 papers to write so the faculty could make sure I was capable of writing a Graduate level paper! But I did learn and had an enjoyable experience.
Week 2 - This was last week. Running from class to class (not literally of course!), going from meeting to meeting to "kick off" the new year. Going over the syllabus in every class - only to come to the conclusion that I NEED TO GET BETTER about READING my syllabus' regularly! This is where all the lectures come from and homework!
My favorite class so far, definitely, History. I love learning more about, WHERE Christianity started, why it started, HOW it started. I probably ask more questions than I should but I love it. But all and all, I am starting to find that the classes are starting to run together...(except for Greek of course) so this makes it challenging to keep them all separate in my head.
I have to make decisions soon about my CPE. This is Clinical Pastoral Education. This is basically when you become a Chaplain for a few months, while learning to council and minister to people in need. This is usually done at a hospital, and you work M-F with one to two days on call and also usually lead services on site; although depending where you are, you may not do that part. We have one master website where we can CHOOSE where we'd like to go,. but obviously there are a few variables to consider. ONE - All of them have a tuition. So finding one that is reasonably priced is one concern PLUS how to pay for it! TWO - Finding one that is near where I have family or friends, so that I will have housing and meals for the summer is important; not to mention just other bare necessities. and finally THREE -Being near where I have emotional support. CPE tends to be very emotionally exhausting, so I hope to be near some family and/or friends. I actually have a few more weeks to finalize this, but they expect us to do this next summer and of course, MY biggest concern is whether or not I will have to have knee replacement surgery. I am going to see another specialist here next week to see what he says and recommends; as long as I'm not doing any permanent damage to my bones, I'll probably wait to have surgery. So I am looking at doing CPE in a few different places: North Carolina, Arizona, Florida and of course, Texas....Texas is probably where I'll be, but we'll see.
I have made the decision to "plug" into a local church, St. Peter's, but NOT do anything musical. I've gone there a few times now and I really like everything about it and I'll be starting to teach Sunday school soon. Another student is going to co-teach with me. The decision about NOT doing anything musical has been difficult, but I'm trying to stay focussed on my purpose and not get all wrapped up in music stuff; if you're a church musician, I KNOW you know what I mean by that!
I have been doing my work study since last week. I work through St. Mark's Community Center and have been mentoring to a few kids in the morning at one school and work at 3 others within the area every afternoon. I help them with reading, math, spelling, etc. Mainly, just homework stuff. My favorite is at Fulton Elementary where I read to kids every M-F mornings. It just really uplifts me and these kids really appreciate it...or at least it seem like they do! I go with another student, Alan. So we carpool together and take turns driving. It's been fun! I also work part time at State Farm still just 2 nights a week.
My weekends have continued to be busy too! Last Friday and Saturday, I was at a "Passing The Faith" conference at St. Peter's. It's about learning to minister to kids and youth and integrating that in the life of the church AND at home. I actually learned some tips on HOW I can be a better Godparent for my Goddaughter Chloe....but since she's still a toddler, kinda hard to implement....but important just the same. This weekend, they are harvesting the grapes in our vineyard, so I'll be helping with that Saturday AM.
I have been elected as one of the Co-President's of my class. So I am also now involved in Student council. Today we had a "Day of Reflection"...where we focused on some things that we can improve about our seminary and listened to concerns and prayed for each other. Last year this seminary experienced a reduction of staff by 20% and several cutbacks that affected a lot of people, so there has been a lot of restructuring going on that made a lot of people upset. That seemed to be the primary focus of today, but what I said in our closing session tonight was that, "while we all can lament and share the sorrows of last years loss, we need to have this Day of Reflection every year, but call it a Dare to Dream, where we focus on where we are going, what our calling is and remember our purpose for being here; to be servants of Christ. If we stay focused on that, we will be a better seminary that creates better church leaders for ALL our futures"....or something like that. It came it rather eloquently and one professor, who is a hard nut to crack sometimes, even commented on what I said to me after....so I guess, God is continuing to work on me!
The other BIG NEWS....is my J Term. Every January, I have to complete some rural ministry...except for the first year, we are allowed to go to our Home Congregations and "Observe and assist" our Home pastor. So I got the blessings from my church council this past Monday, so I'll be home from December 15-the end of January....which will be nice. I'm looking forward to this, since I've not really had the opportunity to observe what my Pastor does on a daily basis...oughta be interesting for sure!
I put on my first "cleric shirt" this week. I now have 3. I figured I'd need them by January and found them on sale, so I bought them. I cried for 15 minutes staring at myself in the mirror...definately still feeling unworthy or my call; But from what I hear, that NEVER changes, just gets a little easier with time. So anyways, a very moving experience, but a memory I will cherish forever.
So, sorry for the novel, but felt like I needed to get all caught up. Hope I was successful! Many blessings to all reader! May God continue to bless and keep you all....till next time. A new saying I like......Our commission, is to go a fishin'!!!!! Peace!
The first week, last week was a week of contemplative, theological analysis of what I think religion is, what my personal feelings are on Christianity as a whole, learning more about Dubuque and its vast religious community and figuring out what that means to me! TRANSLATION: Lots of readings, lectures and small group discussions plus 2 papers to write so the faculty could make sure I was capable of writing a Graduate level paper! But I did learn and had an enjoyable experience.
Week 2 - This was last week. Running from class to class (not literally of course!), going from meeting to meeting to "kick off" the new year. Going over the syllabus in every class - only to come to the conclusion that I NEED TO GET BETTER about READING my syllabus' regularly! This is where all the lectures come from and homework!
My favorite class so far, definitely, History. I love learning more about, WHERE Christianity started, why it started, HOW it started. I probably ask more questions than I should but I love it. But all and all, I am starting to find that the classes are starting to run together...(except for Greek of course) so this makes it challenging to keep them all separate in my head.
I have to make decisions soon about my CPE. This is Clinical Pastoral Education. This is basically when you become a Chaplain for a few months, while learning to council and minister to people in need. This is usually done at a hospital, and you work M-F with one to two days on call and also usually lead services on site; although depending where you are, you may not do that part. We have one master website where we can CHOOSE where we'd like to go,. but obviously there are a few variables to consider. ONE - All of them have a tuition. So finding one that is reasonably priced is one concern PLUS how to pay for it! TWO - Finding one that is near where I have family or friends, so that I will have housing and meals for the summer is important; not to mention just other bare necessities. and finally THREE -Being near where I have emotional support. CPE tends to be very emotionally exhausting, so I hope to be near some family and/or friends. I actually have a few more weeks to finalize this, but they expect us to do this next summer and of course, MY biggest concern is whether or not I will have to have knee replacement surgery. I am going to see another specialist here next week to see what he says and recommends; as long as I'm not doing any permanent damage to my bones, I'll probably wait to have surgery. So I am looking at doing CPE in a few different places: North Carolina, Arizona, Florida and of course, Texas....Texas is probably where I'll be, but we'll see.
I have made the decision to "plug" into a local church, St. Peter's, but NOT do anything musical. I've gone there a few times now and I really like everything about it and I'll be starting to teach Sunday school soon. Another student is going to co-teach with me. The decision about NOT doing anything musical has been difficult, but I'm trying to stay focussed on my purpose and not get all wrapped up in music stuff; if you're a church musician, I KNOW you know what I mean by that!
I have been doing my work study since last week. I work through St. Mark's Community Center and have been mentoring to a few kids in the morning at one school and work at 3 others within the area every afternoon. I help them with reading, math, spelling, etc. Mainly, just homework stuff. My favorite is at Fulton Elementary where I read to kids every M-F mornings. It just really uplifts me and these kids really appreciate it...or at least it seem like they do! I go with another student, Alan. So we carpool together and take turns driving. It's been fun! I also work part time at State Farm still just 2 nights a week.
My weekends have continued to be busy too! Last Friday and Saturday, I was at a "Passing The Faith" conference at St. Peter's. It's about learning to minister to kids and youth and integrating that in the life of the church AND at home. I actually learned some tips on HOW I can be a better Godparent for my Goddaughter Chloe....but since she's still a toddler, kinda hard to implement....but important just the same. This weekend, they are harvesting the grapes in our vineyard, so I'll be helping with that Saturday AM.
I have been elected as one of the Co-President's of my class. So I am also now involved in Student council. Today we had a "Day of Reflection"...where we focused on some things that we can improve about our seminary and listened to concerns and prayed for each other. Last year this seminary experienced a reduction of staff by 20% and several cutbacks that affected a lot of people, so there has been a lot of restructuring going on that made a lot of people upset. That seemed to be the primary focus of today, but what I said in our closing session tonight was that, "while we all can lament and share the sorrows of last years loss, we need to have this Day of Reflection every year, but call it a Dare to Dream, where we focus on where we are going, what our calling is and remember our purpose for being here; to be servants of Christ. If we stay focused on that, we will be a better seminary that creates better church leaders for ALL our futures"....or something like that. It came it rather eloquently and one professor, who is a hard nut to crack sometimes, even commented on what I said to me after....so I guess, God is continuing to work on me!
The other BIG NEWS....is my J Term. Every January, I have to complete some rural ministry...except for the first year, we are allowed to go to our Home Congregations and "Observe and assist" our Home pastor. So I got the blessings from my church council this past Monday, so I'll be home from December 15-the end of January....which will be nice. I'm looking forward to this, since I've not really had the opportunity to observe what my Pastor does on a daily basis...oughta be interesting for sure!
I put on my first "cleric shirt" this week. I now have 3. I figured I'd need them by January and found them on sale, so I bought them. I cried for 15 minutes staring at myself in the mirror...definately still feeling unworthy or my call; But from what I hear, that NEVER changes, just gets a little easier with time. So anyways, a very moving experience, but a memory I will cherish forever.
So, sorry for the novel, but felt like I needed to get all caught up. Hope I was successful! Many blessings to all reader! May God continue to bless and keep you all....till next time. A new saying I like......Our commission, is to go a fishin'!!!!! Peace!
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