SMILING FACES, SOMETIMES...

I have no good excuse for not posting the last couple of weeks, other than that I've had nothing to say.  It's been a pretty quiet time.  I've moved my desk at work (for about the 10th time!).  Same job, different view.

The RCIA class that I'm leading is going well.  I've tried to avoid being involved in RCIA ever since ordination.  It just didn't feel like what I was being called todo.  Having been "stuck" with it this year, it is proving to be a real learning experience for me.  I'll stop short of saying that I'm glad I got roped into it, but I am learning a lot more about the fundamentals of my faith, which is a good thing.

Moving on slowly toward the July wedding.  It's coming faster than it seems.  So much to do... still trying to plan the rehearsal dinner, although as it stands now it's looking like a good ol' Louisiana shrimp boil is in the offing!  Should be a lot of fun.

It's going to be really great getting everyone together.  Family and friends that we only see occasionally, all gathered together in one place at the same time!!  Del Rio will not know what hit it!!  Hurricane Herrick and Co. is blowing through!!!

Speaking of... S2 is flying in from PA Wednesday night, so our first day will be Thursday, her birthday.  Happy Birthday (early), Sis!!!  We can hardly wait.  It's going to be a fast and furious visit.  Thursday birthday, Friday birthday (Kenny), Saturday birthday party (BB and friends), Sunday preaching (Fr. Deo was gracious enough to handle the Saturday evening Mass for me)... and hopefully a nice motorcycle ride in there somewhere!  Whew!  I'm tired just thinking about it!!

We're starting to warm up, a few degrees at a time, with cold fronts passing through every several days, bringing rain.  We still have at least one good cold snap in the wind, since the Navy hasn't shifted to their summer uniform yet.  Every year the Navy finally shifts into the summer uniform and shortly thereafter we get the last cold snap of the season.  Without fail!

With the huge disasters in Haiti and Chile and the flooding in France, the the mudslides in the Archdiocese of Tororo, Uganda have gone largely unnoticed.  From what I've learned, three villages were completely destroyed by this disaster.  We are praying for the people whose lives have been affected.  Also, we are working with Fr. Deogratius Ekisa to learn how we can most effectively help the people of that area.  More on that to follow.

And speaking of Uganda, it's time to start planning our next trip.  Perhaps in 2012.  When we went in 2005 we were accompanied by DLG, and also our very close friends (and brother deacon) "Uncle" Mick and "Aunt" Bev.  DLG had a great time and wants to bring the grandkids next time!  Perhaps some of my siblings would like to take a journey to the "dark" continent?  After all, you'll have your passports... why not?!?!

Sad to report, the "dismantling" of the New Orleans Saints has already begun.  It seems that one of the fans favorite players, Scott Fujita, has signed with the Cleveland Browns. Just goes to show, it's not about the game, it's about the $$$. So who's going to be next?!?!

Lent is moving right along, and Easter is just around the corner.  Time to start rehearsing the Exultet!!  Probably the longest 6 - 7 minutes of my life! (Although it probably seems MUCH longer for the congregation!!)

I have several special intentions for which I am asking for prayers. Thank you, in advance, and God bless you!