Fall Reading Inspiration

I'm starting to reread 'Digital Minimalism' by Cal Newport and reflecting on using less social media. Last night, there was an urge to use social media since I was feeling tired and just wanted to relax, but instead I decided to read.

 I got into the 2 book club books I'm reading that are middle school reads.  And I know that it made me more relaxed but also more energized as well as more tired. Something about using a screen in the later hours into the evening can make me feel less inspired, more awake before bedtime and less productive.

I was able to get into the storyline and characters of the books I'm reading and totally lost track of time. But I could tell I was enjoying it and was getting immersed into it. 

It makes me think of Fall, how time seems to slow down a bit. The wind can pick up, but there's a stillness in the air- changing leaves, faded sunlight, sitting pumpkins. 

The harvest moon came out last night and I saw it this morning- so big and visible. Activities like reading can bring about certain realizations of how we're using our time, our motives, stillness and diving more into creative elements like our imagination. 

Feast of the Archangels

 Today is the feast of the Archangels. I find such comfort and connection in them. 

My dear sister named her three boys' middle names after them, so beautiful!

My nephew and Godsons' middle name is Miguel, and Rafael.

One of my favorites, if my not my favorite Mission is Mission San Miguel near the Central Coast.

The parish I go to is St. Michael's.

I have a medal I chose from the National Shrine of the Basilica in D.C. of St. Raphael that I am wearing today- and I found out St. Rapheal is one of my sister's guardian angel's name. 

I got confirmed at St. Michael's with my sweet sister. 

A random memory, our confirmation sponsor got married on today's feast day at St. Michael's that my sister and I attended 11 years ago!

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I took a photo of the display after Mass, and a lady wanted to take my photo with it- she told me to put my hands like that. 

Mission San Miguel

Brothers-in-Law

 I have 4 brothers-in-law and each of them are so different and unique from the other. I was recently reflecting upon this and my distinct memories of them- some have been in the family longer than others and some I've had more time with. However, they are all special because they are a husband to a sister. I am blessed. 

Ryan

His energy and humor come out and various times. He's passionate, strong, direct and his middle name is sarcastic. He is smart, attentive to detail and enjoys politics for the most part, and other parts tolerates it. He loves his sweets, ice cream and big parties, social gatherings and dramatic events.  I enjoyed visiting him, my sister and their family this past summer for a week. It was very special to have more quality time with them. 

Colin

An intellectual, a reader and lover of learning. He is curious about many topics and is passionate about ministries, book clubs, wine/beer and Gregorian chant.  He is a hard worker and a quick learner. He is an introvert by nature and a great host, hosting several baptism parties at his house. And this past year, the 4th of July- that was so special and fun! 

Salvador

A true giver, asking good follow up questions, and always thinking of other people and ways he can help. He is very smart and a hard worker. His positive and optimistic energy about his work, family and life are truly inspiring. He loves his Salvadorean food and always ready to share or make it from scratch. Have hosted many family gatherings and events, and always feeling welcomed, and encouraged when I'm with him and my sister and their family. 

Ricardo

He is lighthearted, relaxed and has a good attitude about many things that would be hard for others. He is a hard worker, hopeful and a good solver of problems. He has funny stories to share and keeps the mood light and fun. He loves his Paraguayan tea that helps reduce stress and brings calm to the senses. I enjoyed staying over and visiting with him, my sister and their baby girl recently.

Less is More

 With not using social media and not actively scrolling and utilizing platforms such as YouTube primarily and occasion Instagram, I can think easier. I notice less brain clutter, more mental space and room for creativity, and originality.

Just the other day, I was thinking about Chinese and reviewing it again. It's been so long since I've been active with it and used it, but I still have my roots in it and recall what I've learned years ago. Just the stillness of this thought, this idea would not have come about if I was too distracted on social media. 

And I can also review with books, not necessarily audio or on YouTube though that can be helpful. I also notice that there are less distractions when I just want to listen to an audio on YouTube such as Bishop Robert Barron talks and really just hear what he's saying and enter into it when I want some spiritual content.

There are more ideas for books. I have around two stacks from the library alone and perhaps it's the season of Fall or just feeling ambitious and inspired with rereading good reads. 

I want to enter more into this silence, trying to be more intentional and create more in good thoughts, praying, writing, reading, etc..

Autumn Musings

 Fall is in the air, and it feels like Autumn is giving me a big hug. It wraps its arms around me by remembering past Fall memories so distinctly. The lighting feels more nostalgic, and a dim hew, the leaves on certain trees are starting to change to golden and reds. And I am reminded this is my favorite time of year! 

There is anticipation on the air for what's ahead- October, pumpkins, Halloween, November chill, rains, sweater and scarves and Thanksgiving, pumpkin bread, pumpkin pie and pumpkin spice latte. I ordered my first pumpkin spice today and, it's a warm welcome to the season. 

Memories of being a university student at my college and even if classes were hard, busy, and I didn't have much of a social network, Fall was always a happy anticipation. I felt like I could enter into my own world and make things better- ideas and inspirations would come to me easier and creating Fall lists. While at the library, books would jump out at me and the November rains hitting against the windowpane would add for a quiet and still reflection. 

Crafts would speak to me more- baking and cooking recipes with distinct Fall ingredients or creating a scarf with beautiful colored yarns. 

I remember working in that classroom alone during the pandemic and though some days were brought with a heavy hardness, I tried to make it my own and embrace that Fall that had its own thorns of transition. 

One year, going to Apple Hill and trying the best apple cider donut. Studying languages and reading in coffee shops, even amidst all the required readings for my classes. Last year, it was Russian, one year it was Arabic, another Hebrew, and sometimes I feel like I've come full circle with starting to review Chinese again. 

Fall brings about something new despite the season of harvest, transition and closing out of greenery, heat and summer. Each year brings about something different, some new growth, realization, spiritual strength and growth. 

Picture Day

 

This picture was taken a year ago today. I remember my feelings well. The class I was helping in was still crazy and out of control, and full of boys. I was getting more and more busy with my classes, assignments and zoom calls, and I felt tired on the regular with demanding work and school schedules. 

 I distinctly remember desiring for more in my schedule- not yet a professional in my field, but wanting to somehow, someway gain experience. The school year pictures were taken in the library, and I remember asking one of the workers there- a library tech, if she liked her job and told her what I was studying. I felt somewhat stuck in my position and didn't see how it was going to help or be related to my needed experience.

Flash forward, now I am interning at a library and gaining experience and exposure just like I had wanted, dreamed and yearned for quite a long time! I look back on this time not knowing what would unfold or happen, and I'm filled with awe and gratitude of how it all has turned out thus far. 

I looked back at this school photo (my only yearbook photo in the 4 years I worked there), and throughout the school year I saw the growth and change with the seasons. I wanted to keep this ID card, but initially I didn't like the photo. Aren't we always our own worst critic, overlooking and insecure about everything? (It doesn't help when your coworker says not so nice comments about your photo either.) 

But now I like it, as it reminds me of how much I endured last school year- personal growth, struggles in job and learning curves as well as in my program. I can see God working and orchestrating it all. It was also the morning I went to Mass and confession, so God gave me all the graces for that day despite its hard parts. 

I want to tell my past self- 'don't worry, you are where you are meant to be for now. Just enjoy it, learn and grow from it.' Most days I did feel like I was doing the right thing and in the right place and sensed a lot of peace- even when there were harder moments, exhausting days and noise levels that depleted my energy. I'm glad I stuck with it and learned more about myself in the process. 

I didn't know today was the Feast of the Holy Name of Mary, so of course she has been interceding for me as well. 

Running Shoes and Mindset

 I run with new shoes, and it takes some time to adjust and break them in. But I can tell they are more supportive and comfortable overall. They give me an extra boost of energy to train when somedays its easy not to feel like it. 

However, I noticed without listening to music in my ears to motivate or distract was a good habit to get into. I can just be in my thoughts and gain the endorphins and energy I need to keep going. And that's how it is running a race. There is motivation, hardship, tiredness just the same but the reward is greater to keep on going and to be strong. 

Just keep running. 

A Sister's Reminder

 I opened the card and immediately saw the photos from her wedding day. I was surprised and touched. The three photos she sent me from her special day of us together for a belated birthday gift brought back special memories, and in some ways, it felt like a long time ago. It's been over a year, but the intricate details, the lovely summer's day and the closeness of our sisterhood on that day are not easily forgotten.

It was only when I saw the photo behind the others, the one of the collages depicting various memories throughout the years, that I just started crying. It just came to me and all I could do was let the tears come. They were tears of joy, gratitude but also heartfelt nostalgia and missing.

 I realized I've been missing some of those years, of having a sister at home, a tried-and-true friend. One who knows and walks the path and seasons of life with you, and you never have to question. We had that, and that's why it was so special and even more so upon reflection. 

"The bond between sisters is a bond that's strong enough to last a whole lifetime!" 

"In each of our unique seasons of life, there was always you <3" 

Mary's Birthday

 Upon walking into my brother and sister in law's apartment, I saw a beautiful image of Our Lady holding baby Jesus and a lamb. I've seen this image before and found it profound to see it again on Our Lady's birthday yesterday. It holds the symbolism of innocence, love and sacrifice. 

I thought of other little reminders of Mary on her birthday. Going to Mass and wearing a blue shirt and blue earrings without fully realizing. While driving their place, I was holding my finger rosary, and it has helped me drive safe on the roadways. 

And upon training with my brother for our half marathon, and talking about details and running shoes, Ali remembered that she had new and unused shoes that might fit me. Sure enough, they do! And they are a pretty vibrant blue, turquoise. 

I come home feeling pretty tired. But before going to bed, I pray the rosary- the next day for the 54-rosary novena as the halfway mark is quickly approaching. Mary shows up in little and big ways, and in various reminders of her. May I keep her close as my mother and friend. 

God Son of Mine

 "Be still and know that I am God" - Psalm 46:10

As I was with Isaac, I looked up at the plague with this Bible verse and immediately felt comforted. Of course, God is in control, He knows everything, and He is with me. This Psalm was my mantra 2 years ago from a mug my sweet sister gifted me for my birthday, and it became mine again today.

Babysitting Isaac is so joyful, eventful, and fun. How much you can learn from a little baby- though not still a baby, and not quite a toddler. It's the sweetest and cutest phase of in-betweens. 

He understands pretty much everything and has his little ways of replying back for yes and no; he grunts and try to say the words. Or often shouting out 'Pop Pop' and pointing to a picture or just out of sheer joy and confidence saying his grandpa's name. He knows when he is hungry, tired, or just simply wants to cuddle and put his little arms around me and rest on my shoulder just like he does with his mama or dada. 

I'm reminded of the simple things. And not letting anxiety, fear or doubt creep in and ruin the moment. His little dance moves to his favorite song, picking up his board books and pointing to the words with the pictures, or being intrigued by me blowing bubbles with my gum and smiling and laughing each time. 

It's in these moments that allow me to enter in and embrace this little nephew and God son of mine. I can pray for him and be a witness and example of my faith, but so can he- showing me how it is to be a child of God, a child of wonder.