The Papal Conclave

The Papal Conclave is about to begin and have been watching it for a little while now.  The Cardinals have been ushered into the Sistine Chapel under a layer of prayers and singing  and blessing of the saints. It's quite a beautiful site actually.  I am not Catholic, but find the traditions and pomp and grandeur surrounding the election of the new Pope quite intriguing. Each of the 115 Cardinals are reciting the pledge and promise to keep the oath as I write this.  Their red robes and white underlay are so elegant and they carry themselves with such grace and peace.   They will vote today to see who will be elected as the next Pope, the 266th Pontiff to be elected. It is unlikely they will elect him today, but there is always that possibility. They must have a two-thirds plus one vote in order to elect the man who will wear the next pair of red shoes.  Shoes, which are in boxes sitting feet away in the Room of Tears, where the next Pope will be dressed for the first time.   Three sets of clothing, in three sizes (as they don't know who is going to be elected) awaits in the small room next to the chapel.  Prayers have been said and more are to come on behalf of those making this most historic selection.  Historic because for the first time in over 600 years, the previous Pope is still alive. The votes will be cast, once this evening and then two each morning and afternoon until the decision has been reached.   The votes are counted by three Cardinals and the third passes a needle through the counted ballots and then are burned.  Black smoke is seen from the chimney, signifying no election has been made, while white smoke indicates a new Pontiff has been elected.  It's quite a tradition and a time filled with great hope for the Catholic Church around the world.  It's very interesting and makes me appreciate the beautiful rituals and traditions of all religions around the world.   There is something awe inspiring about it for me and brings out a sense of calm for me to witness these beautiful customs.  

The Sistine Chapel
photo credit

Thursday (With a Dash of Stuff)

Our youngest is growing up so quickly.  Texting friends has become an activity as of late.  Going to girl/boy parties hasn't happened before - until now.   We are entering a new little world with our baby, who I thought was really going to stay four forever, but it seems he has other plans.

I bought my first photography magazine and can't wait to have some time to read it cover to cover.  I've been stepping out of my "smile for the camera" box and snapping all kinds of photos and testing the waters with the manual setting.  It's a little intimidating, but someone's got to do it. 

I'm reading a book for book club right now called, Sister of My Heart by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni and it's got me hooked.  Secrets of family history right off the bat are revealed.  May end my laundry routine early so I can read fifty more pages.  I haven't read a novel in quite some time, so am enjoying the little book escape.

Our oldest is on his first overnight school trip for baseball these next few days.  They left this morning at 4:15AM.  Yep, early!   But, he got up right away when I woke him up so know he was looking forward to it.  Bags were packed with hand warmers, sweatshirts and flip flops and swimming suit and batting gloves and the like.  I hope he enjoys the trip and hits a double.

My husband is so handsome.  (Just thought I'd throw that in.)

This kitty drops and sleeps where ever she feels sleepy.  She walked into the room and just stopped, rolled over and closed her eyes.  She's a funny girl. 

I'm not much of a tv watcher (except for Downton Abbey of course) but love having The Chew on while I'm doing house stuff.  I adore all of the hosts and find them to be real people on tv talking about food and the like.  You'll have to check it out one of these mornings.  I know you'll enjoy it.    

I hope you take a few moments today to take some deep breaths, roll your window down (except if it's snowing) and let the fresh air fill your being and be grateful for all that is ours.   Enjoy your Thursday (With a Dash of Stuff).

Today is the Day

Today is the day...

to open the door for the stranger behind you.

to breathe during rush hour and enjoy the song on the radio.

to watch the sunset until it disappears.

to read ten pages of your latest book.
to take a hot bath with candlelight.
to turn off the tv.
to unplug for an hour.
to write a letter to a friend.
to listen to the sounds that surround you and really hear them.
to eat a new food.
to say your prayers.
to listen to your heart and go for it.
to wear your favorite socks even if they don't match your outfit.
to hold your children.
to love those around you.

Today is the day.