Thoughts Along the Journey

Wednesday, we will be heading west for the next round of vacation travel. It's about a 20-hour drive. We break it up into two days...still, that's a lot of driving! Please keep our family in your prayers, and I'll report back when we return.

As everyone is already aware, the pop star Michael Jackson died yesterday. It has caused shock waves around the world. In spite of all the turmoil over allegations of child abuse, etc., in recent years--and in spite of the obvious alterations to his appearance over time--his popularity has continued. From what I understand, he was preparing for an upcoming tour. The concerts set for Europe have been sold out for months. He has had a following since he was a young boy, singing with the Jackson Five. And yet... Did the fame and money bring him happiness? Was he surrounded by loved ones when he died? Did he know peace? If one were to judge by the outward signs, it would seem that the answer to all of those questions is a resounding NO. It's so sad. Another death that occurred yesterday was that of Farrah Fawcett. I remember the hoards of young men who clamored for her pictures and posters after "Charlie's Angels" came on the scene. She was definitely a beauty...

Thanks to all who sent anniversary and "happy vacation" wishes! We headed to Michigan about 1 1/2 weeks ago. We spent the weekend with my in-laws. We went to our niece's open house. That was a great time of seeing friends and family members we haven't seen for quite a long time. Monday was an interesting day. I had only planned to do some laundry and re-pack. As it turned out, my mother-in-law got sick that morning. Thankfully, by noon, she was feeling much better. Hubby and I headed north on Tuesday morning, leaving the kiddos with their grandparents. We stopped off in Frankenmuth, MI, another of my most favorite places to visit! We didn't do much, but really enjoyed the time to just walk around, look in the stores, and just be together. We left there and went on to the in-laws' cottage. The boys and the in-laws joined us there that evening. After a night of little sleep (4 people in one bedroom...), hubby and I headed north again on Wed. (our 20th ...

I just read this story on Yahoo! News. As you probably already know, abortionist George Tiller was murdered about 1 1/2 weeks ago. As usual, the pro abortion camp has made this a political issue, lashing out against pro-lifers as "extremists." The group Operation Rescue has discussed buying the building Tiller used as his clinic. In response, the Tiller family's attorney said: " 'I'm just not going to respond to every irreverent publicity stunt or comment by these extremists,' said...Dan Monnat. " Buying a building is a publicity stunt? What??? The response from Troy Newman, president of Operation Rescue: " 'We would love to see that place established as a center for life, one that nurtures and cares for babies, rather than taking their lives,' Newman said of Tiller's former clinic." Sounds more like reclaiming a territory for God to me! (Brings to mind the book of Joshua! ) Dr . Tiller (and I used the title with some...

Fr. Joe's intubation (ventilator) has been removed, and they are working to get his lungs to do their job again. Praise God!

I don't really have much new to tell you on Fr. Joe's condition. He is slowly making very small improvements. He is still considered in critical, but stable condition. Thank you for your continued prayers. He has a long road to recovery ahead of him. Please pray for our parish, too. As you can imagine, this is difficult for all of us. We had a prayer service for him last Thursday. We are having another one this Thursday, June 4, at 8:30 p.m. EDT. Please join us in praying! Thanks again for all your prayers and words of encouragement.

He is still in critical, but stable condition. Your prayers mean so much. I'll try to give more updates as I'm able. THANK YOU for praying!