The pollen was terrible this week and I had a “dull headache” most of the time. If I didn’t have to be up and doing things, I got in bed, put on the oxygen, and just lounged around. So now, I need to bring you up to date.
On Tuesday, I had my “Tuesdays with Fr. Maury”. We had a great discussion about Pope Francis. I got together a biography on him and some wonderful stories about his life since becoming Pope. There are lots of charming stories about his interactions with people. He really is a breath of fresh air.
I had two interviews about first communion and then the 5:30pm Mass. I went to bed early.
On Wednesday, I kept calling Fr. Beattie all day and they kept telling me that he wasn’t answering his phone. Late that night, I found out he was back in Georgetown Hospital. I am not impressed by the Washington Home.
I had my last two interviews and now we are getting ready for First Communion. I will be the presider at the 1pm session on May 11th.
I spent much of the day working on the cruise we’re hoping to go on in July. I, again, went to bed early because of the pollen.
On Thursday, we had a great Mass at 10am in the chapel to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Thelma Mattingly’s death. Her children and a grandchild came from the Carolinas and Virginia and my sisters, Maggie and Marie came. Also Thelma’s sister and niece and a cousin and his wife came. After Mass, we all went to a very nice lunch at Mrs. K’s and laughed and talked till 3pm. The Mattingly’s and the O’Connell’s were like one family. Our Dads were both U.S. Marshalls and our Moms were like sisters. It was great to be with them.
I came home and sat with the priests at the supper table. I didn’t eat but we had great discussions will after 8pm. Fr. Jim, from Scranton and Fr. Dillion, from St. Mark’s joined us and it was a delightful time. Turned on the airconditioner to avoid the pollen.
This morning, I finally had a chance to talk with Fr. Beattie. I am trying to help him move to another rehab. I’m waiting to hear from Dr. Higgin’s, my orthopedic man about a place for Father. Please keep that in your prayers.
I had the 11am Mass today and then a wedding rehearsal at 4pm. It’s a wedding that Fr. Beattie was going to do; so I’m a substitute. The girl was from St. Camillus and so I know her family as well. Her Mom is the kindergarten teacher here. Please keep Kelly and Jimmy in your prayers.
I’ll go to bed soon as I have 8am Mass on Saturday, a baptism at noon, and the wedding at 4pm. I will have to use the oxgyen throughout the day and will be ready for early bed.
I’ll write again on Sunday.
What caused Jim’s return to the hospital? A good rehab facility is critical to recovery so I’ll pray that you find one. Spa Creek in Annapolis is excellent, but he would be removed from his support network. Never easy!