The Condensed Version of Three Months

It is beyond time for me to get back into blogging. So much has happened since I last wrote in this!

First, I took my students on an overnight field trip to the Koke'e Discovery Center.  It was an overwhelming undertaking at first, but with the guidance of Sister Hannah and the amazing support and assistance of my students' parents, not to mention, a great facilitator, Uncle Bill, it was a successful experience. The children learned about the native and invasive plant species of Kauai. They loved going on hikes, drinking hot chocolate, and playing together. I even joined them in a game of tag. I had to reinstate the "no tags back" rule because I needed a chance to rest as they all wanted to tag me. They tired me out and we had fun.

Exactly a week later was the annual Saint Theresa School Carnival. It is a huge ordeal. People come from all over the island for it. Each classroom made something for the silent auction, and I had my students do a melted crayon art project. It ended up being a labor of love. The best part was the buyer. She was on vacation and just loved it! The children were so touched that someone bought it because she liked it and not because a son or daughter made it. It was a big compliment. :) My other role was the face painting and tattoo booth. I can now do glitter tattoos in my sleep.

Soon after that, my classroom became a hula boot camp as we prepared for the May Day program. I was proud of my students' dedication to learn and master the routines. We had an excellent kumu (hula teacher), too.

The year ended quickly. I made it back for Sister Regina Rose's first profession, which was incredible. I was so happy to be there for it. That week I had a nice home visit with family and friends. It was good to see some people I hadn't seen in a long time. Following my home visit was Sister Rexann's reception, which was also awesome to attend.

Then was the week I look forward to all year....retreat. I had the pleasure of going to Monte Alverno Retreat Center. I loved it. They had a 14 Station "Spiritual Walk with St. Francis" outside. I loved reviewing the life of St. Francis along with the probing questions it asked. I also did the outdoor stations of the cross and the labyrinth walk. The theme was "Rebuilding Our World: It's up to Us Now" and it reminded me of the New Evangelization, as much of the retreat centered around contemplation and only from that deep level of prayer comes the rebuilding of our world. I loved the time for quiet with the Lord and felt truly blessed. I left the week feeling inspired to do that which is mine to do.

Immediately, I was thrust into what was "mine to do," at least on a practical level, for two weeks. I served on the newsletter crew for our General Chapter alongside Sister Ellen and Sister Jan. It was hard work but also rewarding. I learned so much about our Community and felt happy to be a part of it. All three of us were grateful that we didn't go into journalism, but I think we worked together well.

Now we are beginning our more "typical" temporary professed summer program. For instructions, we are viewing the "EPIC" Church History program, and we are about to help Sister Veronica with summer housekeeping tasks....windows, cars, etc.

Whew! Life can go so fast... I hope that you are all doing well and are enjoying your summer!