So, I've decided to discontinue Saturday's with the Saints. Not because I don't enjoy it or anything, but because I half the time I get obscure saints with no more than a paragraph of information and that's no fun for any of us. I'm not sure what I'm going to do instead, because I like learning about different saints and I like sharing what I find, but I'd also like to be able to give you more than a copy-paste paragraph on an obscure saint that nobody has ever even heard of!
I'm open to suggestions, in fact I'm all but begging for them. I've got a bunch of jewelry and knitting projects in the works, and hopefully a job change in a few months (more on that later). I'm really excited about this year.
Anyway, with all that said, if any of you have any suggestions on something I could do instead of Saturdays with the Saints, or even just a way to make sure I get more than a paragraph, let me know please!
Yours always,
Tara
Saturday, January 10, 2015
Saturday, January 3, 2015
Just a quick post
The holidays are more or less over, at least the more hectic part of them is finished, and I'm still winding down.
It's been a little hard. I spent Christmas with my dad, and then spent New Years with my mom. Payroll at work made a mistake, and until I know what's going on I'm on edge. I'd still tired and I'm more than a little peeved with a lot of people.
Sometimes, people get so upset over things that are just facts of life. And I understand, on some level, because I agree that it's wrong, and I don't see any reason why these things should be true, but as long as humans are imperfect creatures, then these particular problems will exist.
There will always be liars, there will always be judgmental Christians (regardless of denomination), and so on and so forth, and no place is free of them, so when people use those as excuses for moving I tend to think it's a bit naive. No matter where you go those people will exist, so why let them make the decisions for you? If you're happy at this church, and you like it, then make yourself at home and ignore Sister Bertha Better-than-you and the others in the Amen Pew. (yes, I am referencing the Mississippi Squirrel Revival, but it works)
And I'm all for people helping each other, but if some one doesn't want to help or can't help, you can't just automatically assume you know why! Especially if you know that person has anxiety or something! And dear God! Yes, I believe God protects His children, but I also think that sometimes He protects us by our own actions. If you know that an area of town is not safe after 5pm, you probably shouldn't go there because yeah, sure, St. Michael could escort you down the street with a flaming sword or something, but why make him? Do you really need to be there after 5pm? No? Then why go? Why put yourself in danger when you don't need to?
I'm not trying to be unfeeling, or difficult, but in this, I'm a fairly logical person. Sometimes God sends a miracle, and sometimes, God sends a boat and expects us to have to good sense to get in before we drown!
It is okay for you to do things for yourself, and guess what? If it's okay for you to do something for yourself, it's okay for other people to do something for themselves as well!
Ugh.
I love my family....but sometimes, I get a little annoyed.
Love you all,
Tara
It's been a little hard. I spent Christmas with my dad, and then spent New Years with my mom. Payroll at work made a mistake, and until I know what's going on I'm on edge. I'd still tired and I'm more than a little peeved with a lot of people.
Sometimes, people get so upset over things that are just facts of life. And I understand, on some level, because I agree that it's wrong, and I don't see any reason why these things should be true, but as long as humans are imperfect creatures, then these particular problems will exist.
There will always be liars, there will always be judgmental Christians (regardless of denomination), and so on and so forth, and no place is free of them, so when people use those as excuses for moving I tend to think it's a bit naive. No matter where you go those people will exist, so why let them make the decisions for you? If you're happy at this church, and you like it, then make yourself at home and ignore Sister Bertha Better-than-you and the others in the Amen Pew. (yes, I am referencing the Mississippi Squirrel Revival, but it works)
And I'm all for people helping each other, but if some one doesn't want to help or can't help, you can't just automatically assume you know why! Especially if you know that person has anxiety or something! And dear God! Yes, I believe God protects His children, but I also think that sometimes He protects us by our own actions. If you know that an area of town is not safe after 5pm, you probably shouldn't go there because yeah, sure, St. Michael could escort you down the street with a flaming sword or something, but why make him? Do you really need to be there after 5pm? No? Then why go? Why put yourself in danger when you don't need to?
I'm not trying to be unfeeling, or difficult, but in this, I'm a fairly logical person. Sometimes God sends a miracle, and sometimes, God sends a boat and expects us to have to good sense to get in before we drown!
It is okay for you to do things for yourself, and guess what? If it's okay for you to do something for yourself, it's okay for other people to do something for themselves as well!
Ugh.
I love my family....but sometimes, I get a little annoyed.
Love you all,
Tara
Saturday, December 6, 2014
Saturdays with the Saints: St. James the Greater
Though there is no historical evidence, many believe that St. James went to Spain and witnessed there until an apparition of the Blessed Mother appeared to him upon a pillar that is still conserved and venerated today. It was after this event that he returned to Judea and was beheaded by King Herod Agrippa I. It is also believed that, after his martyrdom, his disciples returned to Iberia with his body, where it was buried.
And that's all I could find. Well, there was a few fictional stories and a blurb on the Latter-Day Saints, but we're here for the Catholic view of St. James the Greater.
I hope you all have a wonderful day and don't forget to have the kiddies put their shoes out for St. Nicholas!
Yours Always,
Tara
Friday, December 5, 2014
What's the German word for 'Headache'?
Because I can feel one developing even as I attempt to keep my cool.
Just once I'd like the world to operate in a sane and logical manner.
Apparently, I was supposed to work last night.....only no one told me, and no one thought to call me either. So my co-worker had to work a double, and I felt terrible and torqued all at once. I could really have used those hours. Plus, why did no one tell me? All my supervisor said when I told her I was available to work that day was "ok", which is what she normally says to acknowledge that I said something. She didn't say, "Ok, I'll put you on the schedule" or anything.
On top of that, her supervisor apparently didn't tell her about my time-off notice for my trip to see my dad, because she brought the schedule for the next two weeks and had me scheduled to work the day I fly out and the day after that! Now, I did as she told me to, she told me to inform him of the days I'd need off, so why didn't he let her know? Since she's the one that does the scheduling?
Plus, he's supposedly hired two new people, which is mental when we already have to double up on one shift at one of the locations!
More and more I think I really need to get a new job. I had planned on holding off until I could drop the application for the job in Germany, but I'm not sure if things will work out that way. Especially since, even if I get that job, I won't be over there until May or June. Of course, my frustration is based largely off how little people care about their employees, but hey, there's nothing I can do about that, is there?
As long as I'm making a half-way decent pay-check here, I'll stick with it. It's not a terrible job, and it pays the few bills I have (although, let's be honest, if I didn't live with my Granma, I'd literally have to choose between utilities and food, and that's if I was working a full 40hrs a week).
Sorry, I know you guys aren't on here to read my ranting.
So, I'm almost finished with Granma's shawl. I'd have finished it last week except I can't knit at work anymore. After that, I have to get my step-mother's cowl on the needles so I can get if finished. I'd rather work on my shawl, or mom's socks, but mom understands that I might not get it done in time. I really need to get some more stuff put up on Etsy, but I just haven't felt like making anything. I've got the stuff and the ideas, and I want nothing to do with any of it right now.
It's that massive headache I mentioned at the top of the post.
But, all hope is not lost! Starting January, I'll starting knitting for next Christmas, that way, by the time Christmas rolls around, I'll have everything ready. And my headache will be cut in half.
Hopefully, next year I'll be posting from Germany. Say a prayer for me, please? Hopefully everything works out.
Anyway, thanks for reading, and feel free to drop me a message!
Yours always,
Tara
Just once I'd like the world to operate in a sane and logical manner.
Apparently, I was supposed to work last night.....only no one told me, and no one thought to call me either. So my co-worker had to work a double, and I felt terrible and torqued all at once. I could really have used those hours. Plus, why did no one tell me? All my supervisor said when I told her I was available to work that day was "ok", which is what she normally says to acknowledge that I said something. She didn't say, "Ok, I'll put you on the schedule" or anything.
On top of that, her supervisor apparently didn't tell her about my time-off notice for my trip to see my dad, because she brought the schedule for the next two weeks and had me scheduled to work the day I fly out and the day after that! Now, I did as she told me to, she told me to inform him of the days I'd need off, so why didn't he let her know? Since she's the one that does the scheduling?
Plus, he's supposedly hired two new people, which is mental when we already have to double up on one shift at one of the locations!
More and more I think I really need to get a new job. I had planned on holding off until I could drop the application for the job in Germany, but I'm not sure if things will work out that way. Especially since, even if I get that job, I won't be over there until May or June. Of course, my frustration is based largely off how little people care about their employees, but hey, there's nothing I can do about that, is there?
As long as I'm making a half-way decent pay-check here, I'll stick with it. It's not a terrible job, and it pays the few bills I have (although, let's be honest, if I didn't live with my Granma, I'd literally have to choose between utilities and food, and that's if I was working a full 40hrs a week).
Sorry, I know you guys aren't on here to read my ranting.
So, I'm almost finished with Granma's shawl. I'd have finished it last week except I can't knit at work anymore. After that, I have to get my step-mother's cowl on the needles so I can get if finished. I'd rather work on my shawl, or mom's socks, but mom understands that I might not get it done in time. I really need to get some more stuff put up on Etsy, but I just haven't felt like making anything. I've got the stuff and the ideas, and I want nothing to do with any of it right now.
It's that massive headache I mentioned at the top of the post.
But, all hope is not lost! Starting January, I'll starting knitting for next Christmas, that way, by the time Christmas rolls around, I'll have everything ready. And my headache will be cut in half.
Hopefully, next year I'll be posting from Germany. Say a prayer for me, please? Hopefully everything works out.
Anyway, thanks for reading, and feel free to drop me a message!
Yours always,
Tara
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
The day before Thanksgiving (At least if you're American)
It's Wednesday night, and tomorrow is Thanksgiving here in my little corner of the world. This time, last year, I had two friends, neither of whom lived near me, was working as a janitor (a thankless job that barely paid for the gas my truck needed), was stressed over college, and was lying to myself about the damage my parents' divorce had caused for the third year in a row.
I've come a long ways from there. Now, I have five friends (yay!), two of whom live within a short distance from me, a different job that pays better, no college (though I really do need to go back) and while I'm still trying to work through my problems, I'm doing a lot better. I also have a new baby sister, my relationship with my mother is better, and my journey into the Catholic church is well under-way.
I'm still a little stressed, but I imagine I'll be stressed until they put me in my grave, so I'm really not to worried about that. I feel a lot better, even with all of my ranting.
So, how do I plan on spending my Thanksgiving? Well, I'm going to help Granma cook and clean, I'm going to watch the parade and the Muppet Christmas Carol, I'm going to read A Christmas Carol, set up my Christmas playlist for work, work on my knitting, and just generally enjoy the day.
Thanksgiving officially marks the start of my holiday season, and I'm really looking forward to it.
This year is also the first year that I'll be celebrating Advent. I've got a nice little wreath and candles, and two books, the Magnificat Advent companion and The Little way of Advent. While I don't feel the same kinship to St. Therese that so many seem to, I do find her Little Way to be lovely in it's openness. Both books look promising, and I'm hoping they help me celebrate my first Advent properly.
Anyway, I'm just on to wish all of you a safe and happy Thanksgiving.
Yours always,
Tara
I've come a long ways from there. Now, I have five friends (yay!), two of whom live within a short distance from me, a different job that pays better, no college (though I really do need to go back) and while I'm still trying to work through my problems, I'm doing a lot better. I also have a new baby sister, my relationship with my mother is better, and my journey into the Catholic church is well under-way.
I'm still a little stressed, but I imagine I'll be stressed until they put me in my grave, so I'm really not to worried about that. I feel a lot better, even with all of my ranting.
So, how do I plan on spending my Thanksgiving? Well, I'm going to help Granma cook and clean, I'm going to watch the parade and the Muppet Christmas Carol, I'm going to read A Christmas Carol, set up my Christmas playlist for work, work on my knitting, and just generally enjoy the day.
Thanksgiving officially marks the start of my holiday season, and I'm really looking forward to it.
This year is also the first year that I'll be celebrating Advent. I've got a nice little wreath and candles, and two books, the Magnificat Advent companion and The Little way of Advent. While I don't feel the same kinship to St. Therese that so many seem to, I do find her Little Way to be lovely in it's openness. Both books look promising, and I'm hoping they help me celebrate my first Advent properly.
Anyway, I'm just on to wish all of you a safe and happy Thanksgiving.
Yours always,
Tara
Monday, November 24, 2014
What do you do when your job hits a new low?
Okay, so we recently got a new supervisor and this one is apparently a hands-on, ex-military, 20-something years of experience kind of guy.....and he's going to kill us all through boredom and insufficient hours. Apparently, I can't knit while at work. Go figure! I mean, it's not like I can knit without looking at my yarn or needles, it's not like it's a quiet activity, it's not like people don't ignore me anyway, it's not like I have absolutely nothing to do during an 8 hr shift besides surf the web, knit, and answer phones (which, actually, that last one isn't even part of my job description.
And I do understand why this could be a problem, really, I do. But it's not a problem, and unless it becomes a problem, I see no reason why I shouldn't be able to knit in between my rounds and such. It's not like I'm making rosaries, or anything like that. I'd have expected him to tell me I couldn't have my mini-saints before expecting him to say "No knitting." Like, really?
What's really funny is that, for all this guy is hands-on, I've actually only heard from him twice, both times he came here. I mean, really? You don't think to call and say "Hey, I'm your new supervisor."
What gets me is how everyone freaks out over my "crochet" (knitting!!!!) and not over a computer or smart-phone. Now how does that work? Apparently, I can watch movies and play video games on my phone or computer but I can't knit!
I get that some people have a problem with the knitting, but nobody at this location does. In fact, most of them are really cool about it. So like I said, if it's not a problem, why make it into one? Just because someone might get their panties in a bunch? So now I have to find a new way to entertain myself for 8hrs in between my rounds when there is nothing at all to do.
Shouldn't be too hard.
I can read a book, watch a movie, play a game....and look for a new job, because while the knitting thing is irritating, it's got nothing on the hours cut. Plus, I'm not an expert, but I'm pretty sure we don't get holiday pay.
Wishing people cared more about each other and less about "getting the better deal",
Yours always,
Tara
And I do understand why this could be a problem, really, I do. But it's not a problem, and unless it becomes a problem, I see no reason why I shouldn't be able to knit in between my rounds and such. It's not like I'm making rosaries, or anything like that. I'd have expected him to tell me I couldn't have my mini-saints before expecting him to say "No knitting." Like, really?
What's really funny is that, for all this guy is hands-on, I've actually only heard from him twice, both times he came here. I mean, really? You don't think to call and say "Hey, I'm your new supervisor."
What gets me is how everyone freaks out over my "crochet" (knitting!!!!) and not over a computer or smart-phone. Now how does that work? Apparently, I can watch movies and play video games on my phone or computer but I can't knit!
I get that some people have a problem with the knitting, but nobody at this location does. In fact, most of them are really cool about it. So like I said, if it's not a problem, why make it into one? Just because someone might get their panties in a bunch? So now I have to find a new way to entertain myself for 8hrs in between my rounds when there is nothing at all to do.
Shouldn't be too hard.
I can read a book, watch a movie, play a game....and look for a new job, because while the knitting thing is irritating, it's got nothing on the hours cut. Plus, I'm not an expert, but I'm pretty sure we don't get holiday pay.
Wishing people cared more about each other and less about "getting the better deal",
Yours always,
Tara
Saturday, November 22, 2014
Saturday's with the Saints: St. Walter of Pontoise
He left Pontoise to become a monk at Cluny under Hugh but later had to return. He attempted to escape his job, going so far as to hand his resignation into the Pope (who sent him home and told him to stay put this time). When that failed, he began a campaign against the abuses and corruptions of his fellow Benedictines....and was promptly beaten and imprisoned.
This time, when he was released, he went back to work and quite trying so hard to get kicked out.
I mean, there's basically nothing on this guy, like three paragraphs, and all of it talks about how badly he tried to get away from his job! I thought I had issues with my job? Oh no, I'm a happy camper compared to St. Walter of Pontoise.
He is the patron of prisoners, POWs, and is invoked against job-related stress.....so maybe he's the patron of disgruntled employees as well?
Even the picture of the guy looks like he'd rather be any where else!
Ah well. That's part of why we love the Church, isn't it? Because Her heroes are humans, and they get irritated and short-tempered and have bad habits. It makes us feel less alone.
Anyway, thanks for tuning in for this week's Saint.
Yours always,
Tara
Saturday, November 15, 2014
Sinuses and why I'm not posting today
My sinuses are trying to kill me. I'm taking medicine, but with I don't see it clearing up for another day or two. I've had a persistent headache, on and off all day and frankly, I feel like crap.
I apologize for missing yet another Saturday, but I can't think straight.
Love you all,
Tara
Saturday, November 8, 2014
Saturdays with the Saints: St. Sebastian
St. Sebastian was born at Narbonne, Gaul, and became a Roman soldier in 283 under Emperor Carinus to defend confessors and martyrs without drawing attention to himself. He encouraged many Christians and even converted the master of the rolls Nicostratus who was in charge of the prisoners, and the jailer Claudius, as well as many others.
He was named captain of the praetorian guards by Diocletian and again by Maximian. His faith was not discovered until Maximian's persecution of Christians, when his execution was ordered. He was shot with arrows and left for dead, but was discovered still alive and was nursed back to health by the widow of St. Castulus, St. Irene. He then intercepted the Emperor, gave him a lecture on the appalling nature of his cruelty, and was then beaten to death on the Emperor's orders in 288.
He was venerated in Milan as earlier as the time of St. Ambrose and was buried on the Appian Way. He is the patron of athletes, archers, soldiers, and is appealed to for protection against plagues.
He is sometimes referred to as the Saint that was martyred twice because of how he was left for dead, nursed back to health, and then beaten to death.
I hope you enjoy this as much as I do. Some of these stories are really interesting.
Yours always,
Tara
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
Wishy-washy weather, yarn purchases, and knitters fatigue
Do you ever just get burned out on a project? I'm almost done with this blanket I've been working on! I've got one last panel to do....and I want to work on it about as much as I want to wear a miniskirt (which is to say, not at all). I mean, I'm so close to being finished it isn't funny, but I don't want to work on it.
Actually, what I want to do right now is go home and have a glass of wine, but that's not an option at this current moment.
The point that I'm trying to make is that I'm in a bit of a bind because I've got a scarf, two pairs of socks, a cowl, two shawls, a dress, a stocking, and a hat to make before Christmas and I'm still stuck on this blanket! I mean, really! Plus, I have a few tentative ideas for patterns rattling around (along with every thing else) that I'd like to test knit before I write them up.
I also have a necklace, two rosaries, and several pairs of earrings to get done.
I bought some yarn from knitpicks recently for the two shawls I've got planned, and I finally got the yarn for the bottom of the dress and the wings. The pattern calls for eyelash yarn, but they didn't have any, so I bought boa yarn instead, in a nice white color. It'll look good with the burgundy, and should have a nice effect for the wings.
The weather here refuses to make up it's mind. November 1st was frigid and windy. Since then, it has begun to warm up again. At this rate, I won't get to make use of my sweaters until I go to visit my dad. Of course, I'm still alternately freezing and roasting at work, so we see that nothing has changed there.
Anyway, that's what new, or on-going. I'll talk to you later.
Yours always,
Tara
Actually, what I want to do right now is go home and have a glass of wine, but that's not an option at this current moment.
The point that I'm trying to make is that I'm in a bit of a bind because I've got a scarf, two pairs of socks, a cowl, two shawls, a dress, a stocking, and a hat to make before Christmas and I'm still stuck on this blanket! I mean, really! Plus, I have a few tentative ideas for patterns rattling around (along with every thing else) that I'd like to test knit before I write them up.
I also have a necklace, two rosaries, and several pairs of earrings to get done.
I bought some yarn from knitpicks recently for the two shawls I've got planned, and I finally got the yarn for the bottom of the dress and the wings. The pattern calls for eyelash yarn, but they didn't have any, so I bought boa yarn instead, in a nice white color. It'll look good with the burgundy, and should have a nice effect for the wings.
The weather here refuses to make up it's mind. November 1st was frigid and windy. Since then, it has begun to warm up again. At this rate, I won't get to make use of my sweaters until I go to visit my dad. Of course, I'm still alternately freezing and roasting at work, so we see that nothing has changed there.
Anyway, that's what new, or on-going. I'll talk to you later.
Yours always,
Tara
Tuesday, November 4, 2014
Battles with wine corks, store news, and why I haven't been on lately
Wine corks are evil things. They stand firmly between me and the lovely fruit of the vine that is held within a fragile glass bottle. I have this ridiculous fear that I'll somehow manage to apply enough pressure while trying to remove the cork by myself that I'll cause the bottle to break. It's ridiculous, but it's still a fear. I'm not sure whether it's the thought of cleaning up all the glass, or the inevitable bloodshed that would come with it that frightens me, but I'm leaning more towards the glass shards that would need to be cleaned up.
Glass is one of the worst things to cling, second only to corelle ware which, when it breaks, shatters into billions of razor sharp shards that you will still be finding three weeks from now. I speak from experience.
But that's not the point. The point is that I just want a nice relaxing glass of wine, and fighting with the cork generally makes it a slightly less relaxing glass. Now I'm not a wine snob, in fact, I think it's ridiculous, but I do enjoy an occasional glass of a nice moscato or a sweet red blend. Muscadine, while not very well known, it seems, is also a favorite.
Regardless, I don't like fighting with corks. Obviously, I need to buy one of those lovely little corkscrews that make it nice and easy.
In other news, I made my first sale on my store! I'm so thrilled! So far I've had one "favorite" and one sale, but I'm hoping that some of my other stuff will sell. I've got to finish the rosary, and I've got a necklace that I'm working on, as well as a few more pairs of earrings to make, but I'm feeling really good about it. I mean, I sold something! I was so worried that everything would just sit there and nothing would happen with it.
I haven't been on lately. I've just been going through one of my phases where I just don't feel like talking a lot. Sometimes I want to talk to certain people only, and other times, I just can't bring myself to talk to anyone. Even myself. My mind just empties itself and all that's left is a tune to focus on. Sort of like a white noise machine almost.
Of course, added to that is some stuff I'm trying to plan regarding the quickly approaching month of December. Where did all the time go? I still have so much to do, and so little time, and, God help me, even less money.
Anyway, I guess I really just wanted to let you all know that I'm still alive and on here, I just haven't been up to posting anything. I've got some ideas rattling around inside my head, so we'll see where we end up.
Yours always,
Tara Hills
Glass is one of the worst things to cling, second only to corelle ware which, when it breaks, shatters into billions of razor sharp shards that you will still be finding three weeks from now. I speak from experience.
But that's not the point. The point is that I just want a nice relaxing glass of wine, and fighting with the cork generally makes it a slightly less relaxing glass. Now I'm not a wine snob, in fact, I think it's ridiculous, but I do enjoy an occasional glass of a nice moscato or a sweet red blend. Muscadine, while not very well known, it seems, is also a favorite.
Regardless, I don't like fighting with corks. Obviously, I need to buy one of those lovely little corkscrews that make it nice and easy.
In other news, I made my first sale on my store! I'm so thrilled! So far I've had one "favorite" and one sale, but I'm hoping that some of my other stuff will sell. I've got to finish the rosary, and I've got a necklace that I'm working on, as well as a few more pairs of earrings to make, but I'm feeling really good about it. I mean, I sold something! I was so worried that everything would just sit there and nothing would happen with it.
I haven't been on lately. I've just been going through one of my phases where I just don't feel like talking a lot. Sometimes I want to talk to certain people only, and other times, I just can't bring myself to talk to anyone. Even myself. My mind just empties itself and all that's left is a tune to focus on. Sort of like a white noise machine almost.
Of course, added to that is some stuff I'm trying to plan regarding the quickly approaching month of December. Where did all the time go? I still have so much to do, and so little time, and, God help me, even less money.
Anyway, I guess I really just wanted to let you all know that I'm still alive and on here, I just haven't been up to posting anything. I've got some ideas rattling around inside my head, so we'll see where we end up.
Yours always,
Tara Hills
Saturday, October 25, 2014
Saturdays with the Saints: St. Fabiola of Rome
St. Fabiola, a Roman noble woman, was married to a vile man and obtained a divorce in accordance with Roman law. She then remarried contrary to the ordinances of the Church. She was not received back into the church until after the death of her second husband when she followed the influence of St. Jerome, and did public penance for her sin.
Following this, St. Fabiola renounced all earthly wealth, and devoted her substantial wealth to the needs of the poor and the sick.
She erected a hospital and cared for it's patients herself.
She moved to Bethlehem in 395 and worked at a hospice there, while studying the scriptures and working to fund the building of a large hospice in Rome.
She died in either 399 or 400.
Her feast day is December 27 and she is the patron of Divorced people, difficult marriages, victims of abuse, adultery, unfaithfulness, widows, and the hospice movement.
Until next time!
Yours always,
Tara
Monday, October 20, 2014
NOW OPEN!
Padrigin's Corner is now officially open for business!
https://www.etsy.com/shop/PadriginsCorner?ref=hdr_shop_menu
So far I only have 6 items up, but I've got more in the works! Hopefully I'll be able to get the others up there soon! I've also got some ideas bouncing around inside my head!
Check it out and let me know what you think!
Yours always,
Tara Hills
https://www.etsy.com/shop/PadriginsCorner?ref=hdr_shop_menu
So far I only have 6 items up, but I've got more in the works! Hopefully I'll be able to get the others up there soon! I've also got some ideas bouncing around inside my head!
Check it out and let me know what you think!
Yours always,
Tara Hills
Saturday, October 18, 2014
Saturdays with the Saints: St. Jane of Valois
She was the daughter of Louis XI of France and apparently was not very enamored with the glitter of court life. She much preferred to spend her time in solitude, praying and meditating. She was married to Louis, Duke of Orleans in 1486. He was an even bigger twit than her father, and shortly after he became king, he requested an annulment. Since he'd protested practically all the way to the alter, this was, of course, granted.
After that, she formed a religious community with a group of other young women called the Sisters of the Annunciation of Mary. She was buried in a vault at her church when she died.
Years later, the French revolution saw her disinterred, stabbed with swords, and burned.
Supposedly, her body was incorrupt at the time she was disinterred, and when they stabbed her body, it bled.
I don't know either way, I just know that approximately 200-300 years had passed between her death and the revolution.
Yours always,
Tara
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
A tiny Irish apparition and the dramatics that can come with my job
I've recently added a few new things to my little ( for now) collection of Catholic odds and ends. I've bought a small statue of Our Lady of Grace, the Shining Lights doll version of Our Lady of Knock, and tomorrow or Monday (depending on when I make it over there) I'm going to pick up a small statue of St. Patrick from Saints and Shamrocks. I'm actually kind of hoping they'll have St. Barbara as well, but if not, that's fine.
I also bought a second Shining Lights St. Nicholas. I figured it would be a good gift for Little Bird, while not being too Catholic, which would bother my mom. St. Nicholas and St. Patrick, she could probably live with. Maybe even St. Francis, though I'm not willing to bet on it. But um....any one else? Especially one of the Apparition dolls (Marian apparitions from around the world)....yeah, no. That's just a little too Catholic for my mother, I'm sure.
She gave away Christmas ornaments from Ettal Abbey because they had the Madonna and Child on them! I mean, okay, so they went to a friend whose family is Catholic, but still! Simple gold colored ornaments with the Madonna and Child. They were a set, two royal blue ones with the Abbey on them, two gold ones with the Madonna and Child. Explain to me why the Abbey is acceptable but the Madonna and Child is not?
Anyway, my huffing and puffing aside, I'm hoping that I didn't make a mistake and misjudge it....but mom knows I like the more traditional St. Nicholas figure (and always have) so hopefully it won't be a problem.
Oh! The drama of my job! So, first off, I'm not a secretary, but, for some reason, the wisdom of the people here says I am to answer the phone. Keep in mind, I don't know half of what we offer here, and I have trouble finding everything for the other half. So, I had a lady call wanting information I didn't have, and instead of someone taking and picking up the phone to take the call, I'm given a convoluted set of instructions on how to get to the information. Needless to say, it didn't work. And then! Not to long ago, I had a lady call her ride, loudly, asking where where they and didn't they realize she needed to be picked up 40 minutes ago, and they know that's when she needed to be picked up!
Ah, such fun.
I'll be honest, I like my job, even if the climate control leaves something to be desired and the communication breakdown is of epic proportions. I do still like my job, but some days.....some days would be better with something stronger than coffee.
Yours always,
Tara
I also bought a second Shining Lights St. Nicholas. I figured it would be a good gift for Little Bird, while not being too Catholic, which would bother my mom. St. Nicholas and St. Patrick, she could probably live with. Maybe even St. Francis, though I'm not willing to bet on it. But um....any one else? Especially one of the Apparition dolls (Marian apparitions from around the world)....yeah, no. That's just a little too Catholic for my mother, I'm sure.
She gave away Christmas ornaments from Ettal Abbey because they had the Madonna and Child on them! I mean, okay, so they went to a friend whose family is Catholic, but still! Simple gold colored ornaments with the Madonna and Child. They were a set, two royal blue ones with the Abbey on them, two gold ones with the Madonna and Child. Explain to me why the Abbey is acceptable but the Madonna and Child is not?
Anyway, my huffing and puffing aside, I'm hoping that I didn't make a mistake and misjudge it....but mom knows I like the more traditional St. Nicholas figure (and always have) so hopefully it won't be a problem.
Oh! The drama of my job! So, first off, I'm not a secretary, but, for some reason, the wisdom of the people here says I am to answer the phone. Keep in mind, I don't know half of what we offer here, and I have trouble finding everything for the other half. So, I had a lady call wanting information I didn't have, and instead of someone taking and picking up the phone to take the call, I'm given a convoluted set of instructions on how to get to the information. Needless to say, it didn't work. And then! Not to long ago, I had a lady call her ride, loudly, asking where where they and didn't they realize she needed to be picked up 40 minutes ago, and they know that's when she needed to be picked up!
Ah, such fun.
I'll be honest, I like my job, even if the climate control leaves something to be desired and the communication breakdown is of epic proportions. I do still like my job, but some days.....some days would be better with something stronger than coffee.
Yours always,
Tara
Monday, October 13, 2014
A little bit of grumbling
So, I missed my usual Saturday post. I'm sorry, I'm so sorry.
Seriously, I'm pretty bummed that I missed it. I think I might enjoy the Saturday posts more than you do, my dear readers.
Sometimes, I get annoyed by my own nature. Until I'm comfortable, I'll keep quite, and I'm always feeling out people, even years after I get to know them, trying to find the lines that cannot be crossed so that I can avoid them. At the same time, I refuse to lie, although one could argue that a omitting information is lying, when I omit information, it's usually because it's not mine to tell, or I'm just not comfortable with it.
We also have my need to remain polite, even when I'm telling someone off. I don't generally like people who push my buttons, though sometimes my anger, strangely, chooses to manifest as laughter. I know why. On one level I'm darkly amused at how rude, thoughtless, and idiotic people can be. Laughing in people's faces is generally an inappropriate course of action.
And then there's the worst part. Sometimes I just don't want to talk. I'm not upset, I'm not angry or anything. I just don't want to interact with....well, pretty much everyone. There's a few exceptions, but very few.
I feel kind of bad, because sometimes I'll take hours to return calls, emails, or texts just because I don't want to break my little bubble of isolation. I just need to retreat into my head for a while. Maybe read a book, maybe watch a movie, maybe have a drink, and just.....untangle myself. Untangle the knots I tie myself into trying to dance around the lines people draw without breaking my (admittedly flawed) moral code. Untangle my thoughts, and the different facets of my personality.
On one hand, I'm abrasive, sarcastic, a little rough around the edges. On the other, I'm reserved, polite, and awkward.....like a hand-cranked Victrola in a world full of iPods. Analogue in a digital age.
Hence, why I will probably die, old and alone, surround by cats.
Just kidding! Although I'm certainly not ruling "crazy cat lady" out of the possibilities for my future, I'd like to think I have a little more faith than to declare myself a spinster at the tender age of 22.
The problem is that there just isn't a polite way to say "I'm having a moment, please do not disturb unless it's an emergency." Sure, a lot of my friends understand. Many of them have similar personality quirks where they just need time. In fact, most people do. Maybe I just haven't figured out how to verbalize my issues yet.
Thanks for reading this.
Yours always,
Tara
P.s. The shop should be opening next week, when I get paid. There's a few...safety nets, so to speak, that I'd like in place first. But Padrigin's Corner will be opening on either the 20th or the 21st.
Seriously, I'm pretty bummed that I missed it. I think I might enjoy the Saturday posts more than you do, my dear readers.
Sometimes, I get annoyed by my own nature. Until I'm comfortable, I'll keep quite, and I'm always feeling out people, even years after I get to know them, trying to find the lines that cannot be crossed so that I can avoid them. At the same time, I refuse to lie, although one could argue that a omitting information is lying, when I omit information, it's usually because it's not mine to tell, or I'm just not comfortable with it.
We also have my need to remain polite, even when I'm telling someone off. I don't generally like people who push my buttons, though sometimes my anger, strangely, chooses to manifest as laughter. I know why. On one level I'm darkly amused at how rude, thoughtless, and idiotic people can be. Laughing in people's faces is generally an inappropriate course of action.
And then there's the worst part. Sometimes I just don't want to talk. I'm not upset, I'm not angry or anything. I just don't want to interact with....well, pretty much everyone. There's a few exceptions, but very few.
I feel kind of bad, because sometimes I'll take hours to return calls, emails, or texts just because I don't want to break my little bubble of isolation. I just need to retreat into my head for a while. Maybe read a book, maybe watch a movie, maybe have a drink, and just.....untangle myself. Untangle the knots I tie myself into trying to dance around the lines people draw without breaking my (admittedly flawed) moral code. Untangle my thoughts, and the different facets of my personality.
On one hand, I'm abrasive, sarcastic, a little rough around the edges. On the other, I'm reserved, polite, and awkward.....like a hand-cranked Victrola in a world full of iPods. Analogue in a digital age.
Hence, why I will probably die, old and alone, surround by cats.
Just kidding! Although I'm certainly not ruling "crazy cat lady" out of the possibilities for my future, I'd like to think I have a little more faith than to declare myself a spinster at the tender age of 22.
The problem is that there just isn't a polite way to say "I'm having a moment, please do not disturb unless it's an emergency." Sure, a lot of my friends understand. Many of them have similar personality quirks where they just need time. In fact, most people do. Maybe I just haven't figured out how to verbalize my issues yet.
Thanks for reading this.
Yours always,
Tara
P.s. The shop should be opening next week, when I get paid. There's a few...safety nets, so to speak, that I'd like in place first. But Padrigin's Corner will be opening on either the 20th or the 21st.
Friday, October 10, 2014
There's really nothing to say
Nothing of any interest has happened recently. I've been working on my room, doing laundry, going to work, really nothing worth writing about. I went to start on Granma's shawl (I'm worried if I don't start soon then I'll never finish) only to realize that I had misread the pattern and needed a different yarn, which is a mistake I can't really afford to fix right now. I still haven't finished that blanket, and truthfully, I think I need to redo that part of the next square that I have. I think I picked too complicated a cable pattern to finish it any time soon.
I finally finished reading St. Patrick's Confession, and hope to finish reading the book it was in soon. I'm hoping my sister will be able to visit soon, and that I'll somehow, miraculously, have enough money to get a hotel room so that we can all get together while she's here. I need to do something to relax, but I feel like a spring that all wound up. It'll be better tomorrow, but right now, I'm thinking about everything and it just keeps growing.
I'd appreciate you saying a prayer for me, God knows, I need all the help I can get.
Yours always,
Tara
I finally finished reading St. Patrick's Confession, and hope to finish reading the book it was in soon. I'm hoping my sister will be able to visit soon, and that I'll somehow, miraculously, have enough money to get a hotel room so that we can all get together while she's here. I need to do something to relax, but I feel like a spring that all wound up. It'll be better tomorrow, but right now, I'm thinking about everything and it just keeps growing.
I'd appreciate you saying a prayer for me, God knows, I need all the help I can get.
Yours always,
Tara
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
Yesterday and today: Doctor's appointment, RCIA, and why cooking channels are brilliant
I mention the brilliance of cooking channels, but I should add a caveat to that.....they're brilliant until watching them makes you forget to get on and write your blog post. Yep, that's what happened. I got distracted by Chopped, and then an episode of this show on ABC called Forever. An immortal medical examiner who solves crimes.....even if he weren't really attractive and in possession of a nice accent, the concept would probably still be enough to grab my attention. But I'm not going to complain about the rest of it.
So to recap yesterday, I got up late, puttered around the house, went to the doctor's (apparently, I'm in good health and should not need to see her again for another year.) visited my mom and sister, came home, backed chocolate pumpkin muffins, dashed off to class, came home, had a beer, and wrestled with unanswerable philosophical questions.
All in all, not a bad day. Even if the beer wasn't quite what I was hoping for. I keep hoping to find something with a similar flavor to Guinness but without the weight of a Guinness....if that makes any sense at all.
Anyway, today I got up early, went to mass, puttered around Savannah (with some grumbling at my clock for moving so slowly) and went to Saints and Shamrocks. I love going into that store, but I need to be very careful when I do because I want to take half of the store home. And I just can't afford to do that.
I bought a few new saint medals to add to my charm necklace, two laminated prayer cards to go with the chaplet and the rosary on Etsy, a little statue of Our Lady of Grace, and a copy of Gaelic Storm's "The Full Irish: Greatest Hits".
I kind of feel like I've passed a milestone here. I now own a statue of our Mother. Okay, yeah, it's not the biggest, nor the most detailed, but it's still a very nice little statue. It just makes it all a little more real, if that makes sense.
As for Gaelic Storm, what can I say? I love celtic rock.
I'm hoping to get the listings up by the end of the week. I'm not sure how well it will do, but I hope it'll work out. I've got some ideas for more chaplets, as well as a few other crafts. I've got my heart set on a resin kit for jewelry making that I think will be brilliant, but the stuff I'm listing now needs to do well first.
Anyway, hopefully I'll remember to drag myself away from the tv tomorrow night as well.
Yours always,
Tara
So to recap yesterday, I got up late, puttered around the house, went to the doctor's (apparently, I'm in good health and should not need to see her again for another year.) visited my mom and sister, came home, backed chocolate pumpkin muffins, dashed off to class, came home, had a beer, and wrestled with unanswerable philosophical questions.
All in all, not a bad day. Even if the beer wasn't quite what I was hoping for. I keep hoping to find something with a similar flavor to Guinness but without the weight of a Guinness....if that makes any sense at all.
Anyway, today I got up early, went to mass, puttered around Savannah (with some grumbling at my clock for moving so slowly) and went to Saints and Shamrocks. I love going into that store, but I need to be very careful when I do because I want to take half of the store home. And I just can't afford to do that.
I bought a few new saint medals to add to my charm necklace, two laminated prayer cards to go with the chaplet and the rosary on Etsy, a little statue of Our Lady of Grace, and a copy of Gaelic Storm's "The Full Irish: Greatest Hits".
I kind of feel like I've passed a milestone here. I now own a statue of our Mother. Okay, yeah, it's not the biggest, nor the most detailed, but it's still a very nice little statue. It just makes it all a little more real, if that makes sense.
As for Gaelic Storm, what can I say? I love celtic rock.
I'm hoping to get the listings up by the end of the week. I'm not sure how well it will do, but I hope it'll work out. I've got some ideas for more chaplets, as well as a few other crafts. I've got my heart set on a resin kit for jewelry making that I think will be brilliant, but the stuff I'm listing now needs to do well first.
Anyway, hopefully I'll remember to drag myself away from the tv tomorrow night as well.
Yours always,
Tara
Monday, October 6, 2014
Almost ready to open shop and parish social events as a non-social person
I've started getting things ready to open my etsy shop soon. Getting pictures taken, figuring out what to make next, and adding other little details to the mix. This isn't the most difficult thing I've done, but it's not easy, especially since I'm not all that good at pricing things. I don't want to price it too low, but at the same time, I definitely don't want to price it too high either.
So far I have several pairs of guitar pick earrings, a necklace and earrings set, a St. Patrick chaplet, and the Pieta Rosary. The rosary was a struggle to make because the wire didn't always want to do what I wanted it too. I'm actually thinking about taking and re-doing a one whole decade because it's a little too long. Don't get me wrong, I loved making it, and it turned out really well, all things considered, but it was a little difficult.
The chaplet also caused me a little trouble because the only St. Patrick medal that I had available was a double sided St. Patrick/St. Brigid medal. Still, I'm really pleased with how it turned out.
Oh, and I finally made my book music box.
I went a little overboard with the stickers, but I don't think it turned out badly. I've also got a few things in mind for the background on future boxes. The cross statue is actually for those little fairy gardens, I just cut the stake that held in up in the ground off and it was perfect. No lights on this one, just a lot of stickers and a music box movement hidden under that green fabric. It plays When Irish Eyes are Smiling.
I'd like to be able to make some for the store as well, later on. I'm hoping I've just about figured out what I'm doing with them, but you never know.
It's been cooler here the past few days, although the forecast promises that this lovely fall weather won't last. I'm not upset about the nights warming up, but I like wearing long sleeves and jackets so the days warming back up does bother me slightly.
I have a follow up appointment with the doctor tomorrow, which promises to be lots of fun. Actually, it shouldn't be too bad, I just have to whine about it as a principle. At least this time they shouldn't need to stick me with needles.....I hope.
Another thing I'm doing tomorrow is baking. I'm making three batches of Chocolate pumpkin muffins to (hopefully) take to my RCIA class to share. Food sort of acts as a conversation starter, which means I can socialize without feeling awkward.
Speaking of feeling awkward! Last night was the parish Stewardship Appreciation dinner in the park by the cathedral. I went. Thankfully, Aunt D showed up before I could get so uncomfortable as to leave, but it was a close thing. I'm not a social person by nature. I mean, I love people, I like being around people, if I didn't work second shift (and was Catholic instead of "becoming Catholic") I'd be trying to do a lot more. Unfortunately I also have a really hard time socializing.
I'm not comfortable starting conversations, I'm not comfortable taking point, as it were. I need to get to know people....then I never shut up, so be fore-warned, I'm bad about talking too much with people I'm comfortable with.
It makes things like the dinner really hard to enjoy because I'm literally just standing out there in limbo! I knew exactly three people there, and two of them were priests! (Not that that's a bad thing, quite the opposite, it's good to know one's parish's priests.) I managed to relax when Aunt D arrived, but still. It's absolutely terrible.
I'm hoping to visit my Dad this year at Christmas time. It's kind of hard because I have to figure out when I can go, how much it'll cost, and how long I can stay. I looks like I'd really only be able to be there for 5 days, not including travel time. I also would need to get a carry on bag to go for my stuff. Working takes the fun out of travel because if you take time off, you lose pay, and then what? I don't get paid enough as it is, which is why I'm so grateful that I live with my Granma. If it weren't for that, I wouldn't be able to afford a place to live.
Anyway, that's all for now. I'll talk to ya'll again tomorrow.
Yours always,
Tara
So far I have several pairs of guitar pick earrings, a necklace and earrings set, a St. Patrick chaplet, and the Pieta Rosary. The rosary was a struggle to make because the wire didn't always want to do what I wanted it too. I'm actually thinking about taking and re-doing a one whole decade because it's a little too long. Don't get me wrong, I loved making it, and it turned out really well, all things considered, but it was a little difficult.
The chaplet also caused me a little trouble because the only St. Patrick medal that I had available was a double sided St. Patrick/St. Brigid medal. Still, I'm really pleased with how it turned out.
Oh, and I finally made my book music box.
I'd like to be able to make some for the store as well, later on. I'm hoping I've just about figured out what I'm doing with them, but you never know.
It's been cooler here the past few days, although the forecast promises that this lovely fall weather won't last. I'm not upset about the nights warming up, but I like wearing long sleeves and jackets so the days warming back up does bother me slightly.
I have a follow up appointment with the doctor tomorrow, which promises to be lots of fun. Actually, it shouldn't be too bad, I just have to whine about it as a principle. At least this time they shouldn't need to stick me with needles.....I hope.
Another thing I'm doing tomorrow is baking. I'm making three batches of Chocolate pumpkin muffins to (hopefully) take to my RCIA class to share. Food sort of acts as a conversation starter, which means I can socialize without feeling awkward.
Speaking of feeling awkward! Last night was the parish Stewardship Appreciation dinner in the park by the cathedral. I went. Thankfully, Aunt D showed up before I could get so uncomfortable as to leave, but it was a close thing. I'm not a social person by nature. I mean, I love people, I like being around people, if I didn't work second shift (and was Catholic instead of "becoming Catholic") I'd be trying to do a lot more. Unfortunately I also have a really hard time socializing.
I'm not comfortable starting conversations, I'm not comfortable taking point, as it were. I need to get to know people....then I never shut up, so be fore-warned, I'm bad about talking too much with people I'm comfortable with.
It makes things like the dinner really hard to enjoy because I'm literally just standing out there in limbo! I knew exactly three people there, and two of them were priests! (Not that that's a bad thing, quite the opposite, it's good to know one's parish's priests.) I managed to relax when Aunt D arrived, but still. It's absolutely terrible.
I'm hoping to visit my Dad this year at Christmas time. It's kind of hard because I have to figure out when I can go, how much it'll cost, and how long I can stay. I looks like I'd really only be able to be there for 5 days, not including travel time. I also would need to get a carry on bag to go for my stuff. Working takes the fun out of travel because if you take time off, you lose pay, and then what? I don't get paid enough as it is, which is why I'm so grateful that I live with my Granma. If it weren't for that, I wouldn't be able to afford a place to live.
Anyway, that's all for now. I'll talk to ya'll again tomorrow.
Yours always,
Tara
Saturday, October 4, 2014
Saturdays with the Saints: St. John Bosco
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I think that works out quite nicely, don't you?
St. John Bosco was born on August 16, 1815 in Becchi, Italy. He was the youngest of three, and was born in a time of famine and want. He had dreams starting at the age of nine about his mission to help boys with no homes.
He left home at the age of 12 due to difficulties with his older brother, Antonio. He eventually found work, but would not begin proper schooling for another two years. It was 1830 when a priest, Joseph Cafasso identified that he had a natural talent and sought to cultivate it.
He entered the seminary five years later, and after six years of study was ordained on the eve of Trinity Sunday by Archbishop Franzoni of Turin.
While fulfilling his duties, he visited a prison and saw a large number of boys between the ages of 12 and 18 were locked up and desired to help them. After meeting a boy who was in a similar situation while preparing for mass, he began the Oratorio.
The purpose of this mission was to keep young boys off the streets. The Oratorio was forced to move several times, and St. John Bosco was almost committed to an asylum at one point. When St. John's mother, "Mama Margaret" joined her son on his mission, things began to look up and the first Salesian Home was founded.
Adding to the positive outlook was the fact that municipal authorities finally recognized the value of the work that St. John was trying to so. With the authorities finally behind him, he was able to raise money to build technical schools and workshops to help the boys.
At the time of his death, January 31, 1888, there were 250 houses in the Salesian Society containing over 130,000 children.
His feast day is January 31st, and he's the patron saint of apprentices, boys, editors, Mexican young people, laborers, schoolchildren, students, and young people.
I hope you enjoyed this post, and maybe learned something you didn't know. I'll be back again next week with another Saturdays with the Saints!
Yours always,
Tara
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