The St. John’s Guardian Angel

As I walked into church to attend school mass with #5 of 5 this morning, it occurred to me that I have neglected a SERIOUSLY past due topic that I wanted to share here on Father of Five. 

The subject?  St. John the Baptist School’s Guardian Angel.

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HISTORY
(optional, but interesting reading – I am intrigued by all things historical)

From what I have been able to piece together from the web, and some historical books on our town, St. John the Baptist was first envisioned in the fall of 1855 when fifteen Catholic families living in “Holmes Mill” (which is now known as the City of Jordan, MN) began gathering in the home of William Nashbar to discuss the establishment of a formal church.  After a few meetings, a location was selected and work began on a log cabin church about five miles outside of town.  That log cabin was never completed and the group split due to geographic challenges.  The original planned location (five miles outside of town) became the future site of St. Benedict (which sadly has now closed it’s doors).  

The second group sought to establish a church closer to what is now downtown Jordan.  In 1858, this second group completed construction on the first St. John the Baptist church.  This was a log cabin built high upon the hill where Calvary Cemetery is now located.  Parishioners had to hand carve log stairs, and dig them into the hillside to aid in accessibility.  By 1866 the St. John the Baptist log cabin Church was too small for the number of parishioners and by 1867 the first brick building was built on the site of the current church.  In 1875 the order of the Bishop, the operation of St. John’s (along with several other neighboring Catholic Churches) were given to the Order of the Franciscan Fathers.  There were 110 families registered with St. John the Baptist by this point and in 1877 the first official parish school was built.  The following year (1878) the parish put together a proposal to have the Order of the School Sisters of Notre Dame operate the parish school, and they arrived in August of 1878 to begin operations.

By 1878, the first stone church had become too small to accommodate the needs of the parish, and on April 22, 1889, the cornerstone for the church that still stands today (and I attend now) was laid.  Much like it was with the church, St. John the Baptist School thrived and quickly outgrew the building they were operating from, and finally in 1908 St. John the Baptist School opened the brick building that still stands across the street from the church.  The brick schoolhouse built in 1908 was in use but very inadequate, inefficient, antiquated, and non-complaint with many modern building codes.  

So, in 2004 St. John the Baptist built the new “Education center” connected to the church.  

Photo – 1911
     St. John’s Church seen upper right corner of photo.
     St. John’s School seen across the street – face to face with the church.

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Photo – 2015 – Credit John Chvatal of Gazing Skyward.  (Permission requested / pending)
     St. John the Baptist Church and connected Education center along the top.
     The former St. John the Baptist School used from 1908-2004 (the red brick building) across the street.
     (You can also see in this photo the hill that leads up to Calvary Cemetery.)

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NOVEMBER 1999 – MAY 2015
(and beyond)

When we moved to Jordan we enrolled our children at St. John the Baptist School. 

Back then, #1 of 5 was just finishing his sixth grade.  Since St. John’s only goes to sixth grade – we elected to enroll him into the Jordan public school instead of attending 5 months at one school, and have to start over again in the fall in a different school. 

#2 of 5 on the other-hand was just beginning his academic career – and he was enrolled in Wee Angels (their preschool program, which is now called “Littlest Angels”).   Back then, the K-6 grades were held in what is now called the “old” school.

Since then #2, #3, and #4 of 5 have attended St. John’s School for two years of pre-school, then K-6th grades.
(That’s nine years per kid)  

This year is #5 of 5’s sixth grade and her final year at St. Johns.  It is the end of an era for our family. 
She will be the last of our children to attend. 

It is proving to be an emotional year for us because of this. 
(More on that in future Father of Five posts…)

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SPRING 2015

From all accounts I have been able to find - St. John’s brick schoolhouse was built with was was affectionately referred to as a “Guardian Angel”. 

When the school was constructed, an alcove was build above the door to the school.  It was situated such that once the “Guardian Angel” statue was placed in it, she would be overlooking the parking lot and playground where the children played.  The Guardian angel was put in place when the school was built in 1908 and there she stood guard over the children that attended that school, and even beyond.  The “Guardian Angel’s” alcove also faced the parking lot and playground for the new Education center built across the street.  

The Guardian Angel statute is plainly seen in this photo taken in 2012 for the post I wrote about opening the 1991 Time Capsule.  This photo was taken from the parking lot / playground area of the new Education center built in 2004.  You can see how she still watched over the students of St. John the Baptist from her home in the “old” school. 

In the spring of 2015 (107 years after the school was built) some routine maintenance uncovered the fact that the Guardian Angel’s anchor (the apparatus that held her to the building) was failing – and that she (and anyone below her) could be at risk. 

St. John’s hired a construction crew to carefully remove the Guardian Angel – and bring her safely back to the ground.

I had wanted to generate a post here on the The Life of a Father of Five to document the move, but alas – I was busy, unavailable, and/or both.  Then, life got busy and I never got around to it. 

Thankfully, the removal was documented by our local paper – the Jordan Independent. 

In the first of two articles, the J.I. (as it is called around town) documents the removal of the Guardian Angel, and then later in a second article about a week later they delve in the history of the school and the Guardian Angel – and discuss options for her new home.

The photos below are from the articles and document the removal of the Guardian Angel.
(Photos used with permission from the Editing Staff at the Jordan Independent – Thank you!) 

 

 
Top Left: Michael Bechner and Dennis Harrison of Diverse Instruction moving towards the Guardian Angel.
Photo by Rachel Wittlock – Kind permission for use from the staff at Jordan Independent

Top Right: Michael Bechner and Dennis Harrison of Diverse Instruction carefully removing the Guardian Angel.
Photo by Rachel Wittlock – Kind permission for use from the staff at Jordan Independent

Bottom Left: Michael Bechner and Dennis Harrison of Diverse Instruction back on the ground with the Guardian Angel.
Photo by Rachel Wittlock – Kind permission for use from the staff at Jordan Independent

Bottom Right: The (broken) anchor necessitating the remove of the Guardian Angel.
Photo by Rachel Wittlock – Kind permission for use from the staff at Jordan Independent

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Now, let’s fast forward six months and tie all this “history” all together!

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OCTOBER 2015

Each Wednesday, the students of St. John the Baptist school attend mass.  The Mother of Five or myself (sometimes when we are lucky it’s both of us) make a point to attend mass with our kids.  Being a social media user junkie (ahem… Blog, Facebook, Twitter, etc) – I often enjoy “checking in” on these morning masses – I usually do so with a fun photo from somewhere on the school or church grounds. 

This morning, as I made my way from the school to the church entrance through the gathering space – I walked up on what I thought was a fantastic photo opportunity for this morning’s check in. 

THE GUARDIAN ANGEL

You see, here in the gathering space of the church and school, the Guardian Angel has found her new home.  She is in a place where she can welcome students and parishioners alike, and continue her century old vigil of watching over St. John the Baptist.

That is when I was reminded that I had never really taken the time to tell (share, document) her story as I had planned to do earlier this year.  Here are a few more photos of our Guardian Angel in her new home!

In this first photo, you can even see her original home – the (now empty) alcove in the “old school” across the street can be seen (pointed out by yellow arrow).    

  

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Seeing the old school and the empty alcove still saddens me, but I quickly remember my gratitude for the new school my children have attended (with one still attending), and how absolutely delighted I am that the Guardian Angel who has done so well watching over my children will continue to do so from her new home! 

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Thanks to St. John’s, and the St. John’s Guardian Angel!

Rancid Brownies and Rice Krispy Bars!

The Mother of Five was at work, #2 and #3 of 5 had their girlfriends over, and #4 of 5 was at a volleyball game so that left #5 of 5 and myself for dinner.

I let it be “daughter’s choice” night – allowing her to select where we went for dinner.  She decided upon Subway. 

#5 of 5 had a 6” toasted Black Forest Ham on Italian Herb and Cheese bread, with shredded cheddar cheese,  lettuce, cucumbers, pickles, ranch and Mayo.  This was washed down with a Dr. Pepper.

I had a 6” toasted oven roasted chicken on Monterrey cheddar bread, with pepper jack cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, heavy green pepper and light southwest chipotle.  This was washed down with a fresh brewed Fuze half and half (iced tea and lemonade)

While enjoying dinner with my daughter, I had a brilliant notion!  Let’s go home and bake cookies!!

We stopped at the grocery store on the way home, and picked up a premixed “Cheesecake Swirl” brownie mix, and the fixins for Rice Krispy Bars. 

Somewhere between dinner, and the grocery store – an “ear worm” made it’s way into my head.  I started singing it on the way home – and once we got set up for baking in the kitchen, I connected my phone to our under cabinet radio and turned it up!

  

 

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Once the brownies were in the oven and the Rice Krispy bars were cooling, we really got into the music!

What was the “ear worm”??    Rancid’s Ruby Soho!

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Enjoy!

                                        

A Special Happy Birthday!

Seventy-two years ago this very day - a little girl was born to two people - two very special people who meant the world to me.

These two raised this little baby girl. They shaped who she was to become as she transitioned from a delightful little girl, into an enchanting young lady.
She continued on to became an amazing mother & grandmother!!

This little girl has had SO MUCH influence on my life. There is no possible way for me to thank this woman for all she has done for me - all she has been to, and for me, and the things she will continue to do for me - until the day I die.

I am proud to proclaim to the world that this little baby girl I am speaking of, is MY MOTHER!!!!

The "Mother-of-the-Father-of-Five"!

Happy Birthday Mom!! You are beyond the best ever!! You are an INSPIRATION!

I love you beyond words!

FOF Observation #31

The "FOF Observations" are a series of "Perpetual Posts" where I will share with you, my readers, short little "one line" observations that I have made (or will be making) on being the father of a large family. You will be able to access each of the posts in a cohesive list by clicking on the "FOF Observations" link in the "Perpetual Posts" group on the sidebar.
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There is something special (as a parent) watching your child and their "significant other" sitting on the deck, during a beautiful summer evening, simply enjoying each other's company.

Life (as a Father-of-five) is grand!

(Forgive me #2 (and 2.5) of 5 for the “stalker” photo… But it sure was cute!)

Stronger Every Year!

“Of all God’s miracles large and small, the most miraculous one of all is the one I thought could never be…  God has given you to me”       

(Lyrics from “Miracle of Miracles” – Soundtrack of Fiddler on the Roof )

Twenty Two years ago today was a pivotal moment in my life.  This is the day the Mother of Five became my wife.

Since that fateful day so much has happened and so much has changed.  There is far too much to actually list here.  Let’s just say most of it for the better, some of it for the worse.  We have seen richer, poorer, sickness, health, good times, and bad times.  Through it all, the Mother of Five has stood by me (and I have done my best to stand by her).  She is my rock, my island, my reason, my strength (and weakness),my focus, and so many other things.   

Without her - I am only “me”.
With her - I am “we”.

We have now been married for 22 years.  TWENTY.  TWO.  YEARS.  As I contemplated that number, It occurred to me that the Mother of Five has now been a part of my life more than she hasn’t…  (We first met when I was twenty years old.) I know it’s cliché to say, but you will have to trust and believe me when I say that as the years have passed, each has been better than the year before.  Each year I feel as if our relationship has strengthened somehow.

I do not know how to express the gratitude I have for all she has been and all she has done for me.  I don’t think I even can.

FOF Observation #30

The "FOF Observations" are a series of "Perpetual Posts" where I will share with you, my readers, short little "one line" observations that I have made (or will be making) on being the father of a large family. You will be able to access each of the posts in a cohesive list by clicking on the "FOF Observations" link in the "Perpetual Posts" group on the sidebar.
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Question:

What's it like being a dad??

Answer:

Imagine you are going on a camping / hiking / fishing / GeoCaching trip and you budget a little "tackle fund" to grab some new stuff for yourself.

On the day you are going to run to the store, you decide to take along your youngest. Suddenly, you remember that she still doesn't have any fishng tackle of her own, and that you and her mother have been talking about doing so for the past couple of years.

Being a dad means that you end up buying yourself the bare minimum from your list, and that the rest is spend on your daughter.

Her pile on the left, mine on the right.

Graduation 2015 – #3 of 5

A few weeks back, #3 of 5 graduated high school!

In all likelihood, this post will be very similar to last year’s Graduation 2014 - #2 of 5 (that’s what happens when you have back to back children as we did with #2 of 5 and #3 of 5) – and not all that different from Graduation 2007 – #1 of 5 for that matter…

Yet, it’s still a noteworthy event, and a transition for one of our children, for us as parents, and for our family as a whole.
And we could not be prouder!

 

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First, a little background on #3 of 5.

#3 of 5 is our middle child.  He is also our youngest son.  He was and always will be my “little man”.  #1 of 5 and #2 of 5 were quite attached to their mom.  As a result, #3 of 5 often spent a lot of time with me. 
I liked this.  A lot.     

#3 of 5 attended St. John the Baptist School from Kindergarten through sixth grade (including two years of “Wee-Angels” preschool), then attended Jordan Middle School for seventh and eighth grade.  He moved on and completed his secondary education at Jordan High School for ninth through twelfth grades.  He is enrolled, and begins his post-secondary education at Hennepin Technical College in the Fall.  He is enrolling in the HVAC two year Degree program!  I could not be more excited or proud of his choice!  Quite literally – I am a little jealous and eager to hear what he is learning – and maybe learn a little from him along the way!

#3 of 5 often reminds me of the Tortoise in the story of the Tortoise and the Hare.  He is not as outgoing (aka “theatrical”) as his brother, but don’t let that fool you.  He can be and quite often is very determined.  He sees what he wants, or knows what he is supposed to do and just keeps working towards that goal quietly and steadfastly.  There is little “glitz and glam” about him.  I am proud of his quiet, stoic and productive nature.  I have also been told by numerous sources (many which knew me at his age) that of all the kids, he reminds them of me at that age – in looks and in mannerisms.  This, I also like!

Be sure to visit #3 of 5’s dedicated page here on FOF.  You will be certain to find out a lot more about this fine young man (well, once I get the page complete.  It’s still “under construction”)

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Like last year, St. John the Baptist Church’s Graduation send off mass was held prior to the graduation ceremony.

The send off mass is the regularly scheduled Saturday evening mass (the time coincides well with the graduation ceremony), where graduating seniors join the entry procession, receive a special blessing by the congregation, follow the exit procession, and are provided a light lunch after mass in Louis Hall (the Church basement and kitchen area). 

 

One other special thing St. John’s does for the graduation mass is to break out the class’s First Communion Alter Cloth. 

The Alter Cloth is a quilt of “squares” made by these students as a project for their First Communion.  Each student is to use felt, cloth, fabric paint, and the like to craft an image related to first communion.   Then, each of the quilt squares are sewn together to make the Alter Cloth.

This Alter Cloth is used on their First Communion (in second grade), their graduation from St. John’s (in sixth grade), their Confirmation (in tenth grade) and their high school graduation send off mass (in twelfth grade).

Here is a collection of photos taken with #3 of 5 and his First Communion Quilt Square throughout the years!



The mass was held by Fr. Timothy Yanta (our beloved Parish Priest) which was followed by the enjoyable Luncheon in Louis Hall.  The idea of the luncheon is perfect (and I could not be more grateful for the Church doing it).  There is only a short window of time between the end of the mass and the beginning of the graduation ceremony.  Trying to coordinate a meal for our family between the two would have been difficult (at best).  The ladies of the church did a GREAT job, and lunch was delicious!  Their meal went a long way towards us being able to enjoy the graduation without the distraction of hunger!

With all the festivities at St. John’s complete, it was time to head to the High School and get this kid graduated!

The ceremony itself was very nice.   The festivities kicked off with the VFW holding a “posting of the colors” (displaying the United States flag) ceremony.  This was followed with the opening remarks and a congratulatory address.

Both the band and the choir preformed throughout the ceremony.  (There was one choir member who seemed particularly happy!)


 

Throughout the ceremony, numerous students were called out for many wonderful achievements!  Honors, High Honors, Special Athletic achievements, and even a couple of Eagle Scouts were honored.  Those joining the military service were honored too.  Once the notable achievements were acknowledged the moment finally arrived.  The graduates were called out one by one. 

#3 of 5’s name was called, and he began his walk to the podium to receive his diploma.  









There is a video of the moment as well. 
(If you listen closely, you will hear an enthusiastic choir member share her “exuberance” for #3 of 5.)



Soon thereafter, the end of the list of graduates was reached. 
The ceremony wrapped up and the newly graduated Seniors processed out.
There were many smiles!



The gathering area was quite crowded, but we were able to find a less chaotic corner for a post-graduation photo session. – Just as we did last year! 

 

The Mother of Five and I could not have been prouder of our youngest son on this, his special day!  He has come a long way, has overcome many obstacles and has accomplished many great things!  He has a great plan in place, and is heading down the road to success and happiness!  
The ceremony was over. 

#3 of 5 turned his gown in.  He received his “official” diploma (they hand out blank display books and the graduates get their diploma once the gown is turned in).  #3 of 5 choose not to attend the all night party, but had been (inadvertently) scheduled for work.  His employer understood the importance of the date and gave him an “open ended” start time – so after graduation, #3 of 5 wrapped up his special day by working an overnight shift.

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Oh, and would you look at that! 

This young lady giving #3 of 5 a big hug just so happens to be wearing a choir uniform.  

Hmmm… I wonder if SHE knows who the exuberant choir member who cheered on #3 of 5 with such enthusiasm could be?!?! 

I bet she has a good idea!
 
 
 

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As a BONUS to this year’s graduation celebration, we were fortunate enough to celebrate #2 of 5’s girlfriend’s graduation too!  She and #3 of 5 were in the same graduating class! 

If you remember last year’s post about #2 of 5’s graduation – you will recall that #2 of 5 reserved the third flower from his graduation bouquet for someone very special.  The young lady pictured here (with her permission) is the one and only “flower recipient”!  The tables have turned, the graduate becomes the observer and the observer becomes the graduate! 

Since this is also her first “official” introduction here on FOF - I am considering giving her the moniker of
“#2.5 of 5” for all things Father of Five! 

Congratulations #2.5 of 5!! 

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Just like last year, I have another follow up post to this one – it’s become a bit of a family tradition.

I will update THIS LINK once the post is complete.

Nine

I am now into my ninth year of The Life of a Father of Five.      NINTH!
(I missed the actual date by a month... Once again.)

I am just about as surprised by the longevity of this thing as I was when I discovered I was going to be a father for the FIFTH time!

This year, I will reward my long time (and maybe even any new) readers with a few stats to wrap around your heads!

• Including this post, there are a total of 755 published posts (and 38 completed, but unpublished posts) that make up this blog over the past nine years.

• That’s a total of 792 (published and unpublished) posts in 9 years, or 108 months, or 474 weeks, or 3317 days, or 79,608 hours, or 4,776,480 minutes, or 286,588,800 seconds.

• On average, that's just over 88 posts per year, 7 posts each month, 1.5 posts each week, one post every 4-5 days, one post every 100 hours, one post 6,031 minutes, or one post every 361,854 seconds.

Depending on who you ask (various site metering sources), here are a few more stats.

• According to Blogger this blog has received a total of 200,843 pageviews. As of the time I am writing this, it had received 3,023 pageviews last month, 51 pageviews yesterday, and 26 so far today (and it is eary!)

• According to Sitemeter this blog has received a total of 97,079 pageviews since I started tracking with them. That is an average of 17 per day, 116 so far this week, 7 so far today, and 6 of that 7 within the last hour.

• According to Statcounter this blog has received a total of 80,000 pageviews since I started tracking with them. That is an average of 8,889 per year, 867 per month, 198 per week, and 25 per day.

When I started the blog I did not keep stats. It was not until several months into my experience that I discovered Sitemeter – so that would explain SOME of the difference between the Sitemeter numbers and that Blogger numbers. Statcounter came almost a year after Sitemeter, so again the difference between the numbers are related to the delay in implementation. The Blogger stats are the highest, but since The Life of a Father of Five is hosted by Blogger, they are likely the most accurate stats.

Next year is the biggie… Ten. A decade! I don’t know what I will do to mark the passing of a decade of blogging, but I feel as I should do SOMETHING!

Any ideas?? Leave them as a comment!

Decisions

It is easily and often overlooked just how much the choices / decisions / actions of others can impact (or maybe even change the course of) one’s life.

Sometimes it’s the simplest of things – like noticing that someone on the opposite team in your college bowling class is wearing a class ring from the same high school you graduated from. A simple statement like “I like your class ring” just may result in a 20 plus year marriage, and family of five children!

Maybe it’s a former co-worker (that I did not interact with) who happened to stop into the store you worked at together, and just by chance threw out an offer to get together for pizza after my shift ended (that I almost turned down). Twenty eight years later, and we are still “hanging out” together!

Or even a simple comment left on a blog that you just happen to stumble upon.
A comment that you never expected to even get a response from. A comment that has led to a 6+ year / 800+ mile friendship!

These… These are all simple interactions. Chance encounters – but ones that directly involved me on some level.

Sometimes, it’s a choice, decision, or action taken without your involvement that impacts your live.

Case in point… Earlier this week a Facebook status update about just such a decision / action left me so profoundly overwhelmed that I could not help but reflect on its meaning in my life.

(Out of respect for the person in question - the source’s identity of this status update was hidden. I used their update (which was my inspiration) without their consent or knowledge – although many of my readers are mutual friends, and may recognize the identity.)

I read the status update, and a couple of things crossed my mind.

Initially, my thoughts were of respect for the parents of this family. Personally, I get nervous just thinking about leaving home for two week vacation. The idea of pulling up roots and leaving everything you know and love behind to flee your native homeland in order to relocate in a foreign country on the other side of the world – is beyond my imagination. Words like courageous, brave, committed, and even heroic come to mind.

Then, I started reflecting on the results of that decision.

• A decision made by someone approximately 8,400 miles away.
• A decision that was made many years before I would even cross paths with the family.
• A decision that would lead this person’s family and my life on a collision course.
• A decision that changed my life for the better, and I will forever be grateful for.
• A decision that resulted in a friendship that has lasted more than thirty five years, spanned elementary school, junior high, high school, college, and various stages of adulthood.
• A decision that placed a person in my life who became one of the closest and longest maintained friendships I have.

Even beyond that initial decision, I am overwhelmed by the infinite number of forks in the road that needed to be chosen in a certain manner in order for our lives to cross.  Had even one of those forks been taken down a different path, I may have never been fortunate enough to have this friend in my life.

It’s sort of like reflecting on the vastness of the universe. It’s so overwhelming that it is simply mind blowing!

Despite (or maybe because of) the overwhelming odds of our lives crossing paths, I will be forever appreciative and grateful for the presence of this person in my life.  This person who has been supportive of me throughout the years, who has taught me so many things, and who still (all these years later) inspires me on regular basis. After reading their status update and taking some time to reflect on its meaning, I am also wondering if I have ever truly expressed (or if they realize) just how important this person is to me, and how appreciative I am to have them in my life.

This updated proved to be a good reminder how one small choice, decision, or act could impact the remainder of one’s life.

FOF Observation #29

The "FOF Observations" are a series of perpetual posts where I will share with you, my readers, short little observations that I have made (or will be making) on being the father of a large family. You will be able to access each of the posts in a cohesive list by clicking on the "FOF Observations" link in the "Perpetual Posts" group on the sidebar.

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Normally these "Observations" have a foundation based in humor.
Today, I am switching gears into a more serious tone.

One of the members of a Facebook Group I belong to for "Dad Bloggers" recently asked an open question to all the other members.  MoJoDad Jim asked for a response to the following question....

What would be your one major piece of advice for any first time father?

I thought about it a little bit.  I mean, I am a father of five - and two of the five have reached "adulthood" (with one more reaching that milestone in less than a month).  I do have "some" experience in this area.

I started reading some of the many replies.  There were all very good.

"You have no idea what you're doing and that's ok."    -S.A.H.D.ness
"Do what you think is right... Ignore the naysayers."    -DadRambles
"Don't be afraid to hold them. They won't break."    -DadBlunders
"If the baby is crying don't stress out!"    -Souvenirs of Fatherhood
"Spend as much time outdoors as possible with them from day 1" -OutdoorsWithDad

There were also some pretty funny ones too!

"Deep Breaths!"    -DoubleTroubleDaddy
"If you fart... You can blame it on the baby."    -Souvenirs of Fatherhood
"Always carry an extra diaper in your back pocket."    -Souvenirs of Fatherhood
"Blame the little ones as long as you can."    -DadBlunders

I had a basic concept of what I wanted to convey, so I started started typing.

Here is what I came up with.

Despite what it may seem like, relish each and every moment. When you look back, the time you have with your kids will have passed like the blink of an eye.

                                                                      - The Life of a Father of Five 

My comment received many "likes" and...  nearly brought me to tears.

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What would be YOUR one major piece of advise for any first time father?
Leave your answer as a comment.

A Brief Geologic History

Way back when #3 of 5 was still a cute little “ankle biter” (around 8-10 years old) he had an intense curiosity on all things geological.  He would “collect” rocks from the playground, the beach, the waterfalls, or on any trips we took.  If there was an interesting (or even non-interesting) rock to be had, he collected it.  This young lad had buckets (plural) of rocks in his bedroom. 

We picked up some books on Geology, he did a Geology Merit Badge, and was was given rock gifts (like a polished stone egg, and a polished stone box).  If you would have asked me what I thought he would grow up to become, I would have told you (without hesitation) that he was destined to become a geologist.

During this same period, my father was cleaning out his garage, and stumbled upon a rock tumbler that he bought us when we were kids.  (The tumbler was only used once that I remember – because it is a very length and involved process).  Knowing #3 of 5’s interests in all things “rock”, he gave it to me. 

I was very excited, as was #3 of 5 (which was no surprise to us) – so we quickly we went to work picking through all his rocks to find the ones we thought would look best polished.  With the rocks picked out, I ordered the necessary selection of “grit” to achieve the results we were looking for and set up the rock tumbler. 

 

 

Not long after we started, the motor on the twenty(+) year old tumbler burned out.  I wasn’t all that surprised – the tumbler sat unused for nearly two decades.   What I WAS surprised about was how much a new rock tumbler cost!  I did a little bit of searching and located a source for a lower cost rock tumbler. 

Once I got that one home and running, it too quickly failed.  Repeatedly.  The more I tried to keep it working, the more things went wrong.  After three sets of belts, an overheated motor, and worn bushing, I took the barrels off the tumbler, set them on my work bench, and “shelved” the whole project.  I told myself (and #3 of 5) that I would find a different option one day, but for now I had to put the project on hold.  I could sense his disappointment.  

There on my workbench the barrels sat, day by day, week by week, month by month, and year by year.  There they sat, often mocking me about how I STILL haven't followed through with completing the project. 

Yes, I could have moved them out of sight and out of mind, but instead I chose to keep them in place I would often see as a reminder that they were still there waiting for us.

 

I would pick up the barrels and give them a shake from time to time.  It often sounded as if they only contained water, but sure enough, once the rocks shook loose from the grit they had settled into - the tell tale sounds confirmed that the rocks we put in the barrel so many years ago were still in there! 

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Fast forward seven or eight years.

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We were having a family meeting / discussion about improving upon “following through” with chores and cleaning up after one’s self.  We worked our way through a couple of other items up for discussion, when I stumbled over something that bothered me.  It was an example on how easily we all can forget to “followed through” on things, and how terrible I felt about one of my “follow through failures”. 

I admitted my disappointment for never having followed through with #3 of 5 on completing the polished rocks project.  In fact I was so ashamed of myself that as I talked about it, I was choking back tears.

That night, as I fell asleep, I really reflected on why I never finished the project.  Time.  Money.  #3 of 5’s weaning interest in geology.   They were all there, but as I sat thinking about it, I realized they were not really reasons, as much as excuses used to justify why I never completed the project. I felt bad.  No…  I felt terrible!

The next morning, I started researching what it would cost me to get the polisher operational again.  After a couple of weeks of searching, I located the parts necessary to get the rocks tumbling again, and placed my order. 

Once I had ordered the parts I told #3 of 5 what I had done.  As I was talking to him about it I noticed a bit of that “little boy smile” I miss seeing now that he is almost an adult.  I don’t know if it was because we were going to get the rocks polished, because he he was so surprised that I actually followed through, or simply out of nostalgia. I didn’t care.  I loved seeing that smile!

A couple of days ago the parts arrived. 
I repaired / assembled the tumbler, and went outside to retrieve the barrels from their spot on my workbench.  The rocks have been sealed in those barrels in their bath of water and grit - and have not seen the light of day for just under a decade.  They have been through more freeze/thaw cycles that I care to think about, and have all but boiled in the summer heat of my garage.

Two of the barrels still contained the same rocks and the water grit slurry that we sealed inside so many years ago.  Since it is Feburary in Minnesota, these two barrels were frozen.  I placed the barrels in a bath of hot water, and once I could hear that the ice released it’s grip on the slurry and rocks (by shaking), I placed one of the barrels on tumbler and I’m happy to report that the rocks are officially tumbling again!!

This morning when #3 of 5 came up from his bedroom this morning, his face lit up again.  He had that “little boy smile” on his face when he asked me if those were our rocks, and I answered “yes”! 

I am hoping he is as eager as I am to open that barrel and take a peek back in time
and enjoy a little bit of “geologic history”!

Family Lunch – St. John the Baptist

If you have spent any time here on FoF, you know how supportive I am of our local Catholic School – St. John the Baptist.  Four of our five have attended St. John’s (the fifth (#1 of 5) didn’t due to his age).  It’s bittersweet to think that we are down to our last St. John’s attendee.  St. John’s has been a second family to us.  So, I plan on making the most of what time we have left (as parents with a student(s) enrolled).

Each year the Catholic Church celebrates “Catholic Schools Week”.  According to the National Catholic Schools Association – “National Catholic Schools Week is the annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States. It starts the last Sunday in January and runs all week” Schools typically observe the annual celebration week with Masses, open houses and other activities for students, families, parishioners and community members. Through these events, schools focus on the value Catholic education provides to young people and its contributions to our church, our communities, and our nation.

The week is given a theme.  This year, the theme is “Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge and Service.” 

On Saturday we had a kick-off celebration Mass followed by cookies, coffee, and milk in the church’s Gathering Area.  St. John’s students were invited to participate in the evening mass as greeters, readers, singers, gift bearers, etc. 

At the end of mass, the school recognizes two people important to the school. The school gives out a “Honorary Graduate” award (one who did not graduate from St. John’s but who’s service to the school, church, and/or community represent the teachings of the school) and a “Distinguished Graduate” award (who graduated from St. John’s who has carried the teachings of the school beyond his or her time attending, having gone on to tremendous things for the school, church, and/or community.)  

This year, in BOTH cases, very well deserving men and friends of ours won the award(s).  In BOTH cases, they were WELL deserved!

 

The “Honorary Graduate” is the father of our former neighbors and good friends. 

The “Distinguished Graduate” award went to a very talented and inspirational husband and father.  Our sons went to St. John’s together.

I could not imagine two more deserving men!
It is my honor and privilege to say I know both of them!

They are photographed along with our school Principal and our Parish Priest. 

 

After the kick-off mass, the focus shifts back to the school and the students.  Each school day is given it’s own theme around the general weekly theme.  As you can see, it’s a busy week at St. John’s 

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Monday – Follow your dreams! (Pajama / Lounge wear – All school kickoff assembly)
Tuesday – We Are All One Team!  (Favorite team jersey day – Family Lunch Day)
Wednesday – We are all different and yet all fit together! (Uniforms with mismatched / misfit socks – weekly mass)
Thursday – Get the St. John’s Spirit!  (School Spirit clothing day – Students will serve the community by volunteering time at our local nursing home.  Singing songs, playing games, and visiting with the residents (many of whom attended St. John’s themselves!))
Friday – We are all a beautiful party of God’s world.  (Rainbow day – each grade wears a different color of the rainbow – Field Trip – and St. John’s Family Association Pizza and Movie night)

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Today was “Family Lunch Day”.  Parents are welcomed into the school to partake in lunch with their children.  I was delighted to discover that I had the day off, so (of course) I planned on attending. 

This year we were very fortunate to have the menu and dinner prepared by our very own school parent (and esteemed Chef) Troy Mahoney!  

The menu for the day included Baked Herb Chicken, Mashed Potatoes, Stuffing, Green Beans, a dinner roll fruit, and desert. 

 

I tracked down #5 of 5, and we got into the lunch line.  As fate would have it, we were (of course) second to last in line, but – it was all good – as the family in front of us are good friends and our daughters are classmates and good friends too! 

We passed the time in line doing goofy “father / daughter stuff”.  We stepped on each other’s feet, I walked with her standing on my feet (like a marionette).  I tried to get her to “look the other way” by tapping on her shoulder (the one opposite to where I was standing) – you know.. Goofy “father / daughter stuff”. 

Before we knew it, we were at the serving line, and the wonderful St. John’s volunteer servers were loading up our trays.  #5 of 5 picked out a seat, and we enjoyed our lunch together visiting about school and making jokes.

(…and… of course, taking time for a quick “father / daughter selfie”)   

 

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Once we had our fill (and no, I could not finish my lunch – I took home our dinner rolls!) it was time to head back to the classroom.

I dropped #5 of 5 back off, but not without giving her a little grief about how messy her desk was (I guess the apple does not fall far from the tree in this case – as some of my “Nativity Family” may be able to confirm.)

All in all, it was a great afternoon.  I can’t thank the AMAZING staff at St. John the Baptist for all they do.  A finer group of people would be difficult to find – and I am grateful for their presence – not only in my life, but in the life of my children.

Family Lunch Day.  It really doesn’t seem like all that much.  Parents arrive.  Parents enjoy lunch with their kids.  Parents return their kids to the classroom, and go home. 

What it is to me is is just another shining example (as little as they all seem, they sure add up!) why I love
St. John’s School so very much!