Category: Positivity

“And this is the job of the catechist: constantly to go forth to others out of love to bear witness and to talk about Jesus, to proclaim Jesus. This is important because the Lord does it; it is the Lord that impels us to go forth.” –Pope Francis

Being a 2nd grade teacher is the job of a hero, no matter what school. To do this job in a Catholic School, however, is really a calling unto itself. It requires the typical classroom control (which is not easy with a couple dozen sets of 7 and 8 year-olds to manage), then there’s the Math, English, Social Studies, Science, etc. For teachers with students in Catholic School, this job also includes sacramental preparation for two of the Sacraments in the Church– First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion. For the uninitiated, let me tell you….it’s kind of a big deal.

Meet Heather Sears. She is a wife and the mother of two (mostly) grown and terrific sons, Chase and Conner. I also know her to be a treasured friend to many. That’s no surprise to me since I’ve seen her quiet acts of kindness many times over the years. She’s got a friendly face and an easy smile for everyone. As a teacher, she is firm but patient and very loving. I’ve noticed her graciously accept gifts from children that might be otherwise classified by yours truly, but the fact is they chose it for her and she understands the proper disposition necessary when a child gives you a gift– even if it’s a muddy rock.

I love the kind-heart, generosity, and genuine loveliness that is Heather. She’s funny and the owner of a silly sarcasm that makes me smile. I think the Lord loves living in Heather because of the beautiful way she treats others. She teaches His little ones to follow Jesus before the world tries to teach them the opposite. Imagine being tasked with teaching about how Christ is the bread of life and the cup of eternal salvation alongside math facts? I mean, that’s a darn big job, am I right?? So many families have been blessed because they have found Heather Sears leading the classroom of their child at St. Louis de Montfort Catholic School in Fishers, IN.

Life hasn’t always been easy for Heather, but I’ve watched her put one foot in front of the other and keep going during trying times. Her attitude has always been positive–no matter how large the challenge. She’s a woman who chooses to love, and ultimately, it’s all about making that choice day after day. Sometimes it’s easy and other times it just isn’t. Heather is the kind of person who chooses to return negativity with kindness– and I think the Lord smiles down on her and loves her for it!

Tomorrow as you celebrate your birthday, Heather, I hope you will know how much it matters what you have done with your life, your talents and your heart. You have made such a difference for so many children and their families. For some of us watching you from nearby, you’ve inspired a desire to love and serve the Lord in our own lives with the same joyful and willing heart. Thank you always for gracing me with your beautiful smile when I see you! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HEATHER!

Love all in God and for God, all will be well. -St. (Mother) Theodore Guerin

Day 99 of 365: Mary Ann Grove

When I was about the same age as the handsome young man standing with her, above, I was also a student at St. Lawrence Catholic School in Lafayette and Mary Ann Grove was my third grade teacher. Well, actually, she was “Miss Mecklenberg” back then. I realize now she must have been just a baby, because it’s been a while since I’ve been in the third grade! I recognize that sanctuary behind her in the photo from my grade school years. It’s gotten some updates over time, but the words in the background that are cut off by the photo read, “If you love me, keep my commandments.”

As teachers go, “Miss Mecklenberg” was really just remarkable. She smiled and she laughed a lot. She had a great sense of humor and that infectious laughter filled the classroom with her sunshine. I had a large class all through grade school, and in most years, our numbers hovered north of 35 students. There was only one classroom per grade, and the vast majority of my classmates were boys. In other words, there was a lot of noise and chaos. I don’t know how they do things now, but back then, the classes took turns preparing the school masses. When it was our turn, teachers would choose students to read, bring up the gifts, etc. At this age, there were quite a few readers always chosen, as in addition to the mass readings and responsorial psalm, she would have a different student read each petition. It really was amazing how many children she managed to involve as I look back on it.

However, I remember so vividly being truly disappointed that I was NOT chosen to help that fall of 3rd grade year. I’m pretty sure I had a minor meltdown over it. Nothing has changed with me over time when things don’t go my way…ha? The poor woman! That last thing she needed in her jammed full classroom was another high maintenance kid. She really could have rolled her eyes and told me to get over myself. Who would have blamed her? That’s not what she did, though. Instead, she pulled me aside later and told me she had something very special in mind for me for our Christmas mass in a few weeks if I could be patient. I received her kindness as a great gift. I do not recall her words exactly but I remember very clearly how she made me feel loved and valued.

Thank goodness God sees our hearts and His love isn’t dependent on how we act. He’s a lot like Mary Ann Grove that way. Some teachers are so filled with compassion for their students that they truly are the face of Christ everyday. I recall her as a woman who was always lifting up, holding, and serving others. The work of her hands was something to behold, and her witness of what it looks like to love others first has always stuck with me as something I wanted to emulate. The world sometimes overlooks gems like Mary Ann Grove. To the students, friends, family members and community that she has touched over the years, there are few gifts more precious than those shared by this amazing woman.

This weekend as she celebrates her birthday, I wanted to take a moment to reach out and say HAPPY BIRTHDAY to one of the finest teachers I’ve ever encountered! I’ve been gone from Lafayette for a while, but I’ve kept an eye on you. What you have spent your life doing is one of the most beautiful things imaginable! I am so blessed to have had the opportunity to be a student in one of your classes! I hope all your people love you up like crazy this birthday weekend! THANK YOU FOR BEING YOU!

Even when alone, be cheerful, remembering always that you are in the sight of angels. –St. Therese of Lisieux

Stunningly beautiful, isn’t she? I’ll admit I’ve had hair and skin envy forever! This is Theresa Clark. I’ve known Theresa for several years as she has been a junior high teacher at St. Louis de Montfort for….quite a while. She’s right in the middle of teaching my youngest at the moment. I’m sure that last Thieme kid leaving the building will be a tough loss for her, ha?! One thing that confounds me about Theresa is that she NEVER AGES. She taught my oldest son, Nick, in 7th and 8th grade and he is a junior in college now. Theresa looks EXACTLY the same. I always wonder to myself what is her secret?

Theresa is a phenomenal human being and very famous dog lover. To say that her dog, Tillie, is beloved would be a major understatement. However, that is not what I most adore about Theresa. What makes her outstanding to me is that she is just plain cheerful. No matter what her day is like, Theresa can be counted on for just a gorgeous grin. Her smile is one that melts hearts. She smiles with her whole face, and even her eyes twinkle. It’s almost as if she instinctively knows that it simply doesn’t take any more effort to see the good than it does to focus on the bad.

Theresa warms others around her with her positive glow. I’m sure she doesn’t always FEEL perky and sunny, but it’s what she gives the world, and our world is one in DESPERATE need of such selflessness. On one of my most difficult days of 2019, I ran into Theresa at church at SLDM. She had no way of knowing that the news I had received that day was really tough, she simply did what she does and she smiled at me and said, “Good morning, Mrs. Thieme!” It was a tiny moment to her, but to me that day, it felt like the Lord smiling at me and just telling me to take a deep breath. I needed a little bit of Jesus and there was Theresa with her kindness. She goes out of her way to smile and her laugh is just genuine and lovely. She’s got a great sense of humor and I have to believe she’s a joy to have as a teaching partner. She throws light into the world, it’s just who she is!

Theresa, I feel truly fortunate that my three sons have had such a genuine, faith-filled, and lovely human teaching them social studies over the years. As a parent, it’s very heartening to be greeted with a smile by my child’s teacher– it’s a thing you never fail to do– even when I know that a classroom full of hormonal teenagers must have gotten the better of you now and then. I’m thankful for how hard you work, how much you care, and who you are! The Thieme clan will surely miss Theresa Clark!! You are a big scoop of awesome!

“There is no personal charm so great as the charm of a cheerful temperament.”

Like a shepherd he feeds his flock; in his arms he gathers the lambs, carrying them in his bosom, leading the ewes with care. (Isaiah 40:11)

The Raver girls hail from Bateville, Indiana. If you’re following along with my “Mad for” series, you’ve already met one of them, Renee (Raver) Schwegman. Today, I want to tell you a little about the other amazing Raver sister, Kathy (Raver) Cruz. Kathy is the husband to Charlie and mother of sweet Lilah and Max. Sorry, Renee, but it appears to me that Kathy is definitely the “responsible sister”. Kathy is all about safety first, whether it be proper floatation devices for the kids while they take walks on the pier in Michigan (see above photo) or when shopping for the healthiest foods available for the family. I could certainly learn some things from her there! She’s a woman who reliably does the right thing.

Kathy is gracious, kind and sunny. She’s done phenomenal charity work over the year’s for “Joy’s House”. She likes to laugh and she’s gracious and easy to be around. Also, Kathy has had a rough start to 2019. She had emergency surgery to remove her appendix…and things did NOT go smoothly. She was home from the hospital, then she was back again. Life is hard sometimes, isn’t it? Despite all we do to live up to our responsibilities and obligations in daily life, the Lord occasionally tosses us a curveball.

Here’s the thing about Kathy that I noticed during this time. Despite her physical pain and incredible frustration, she just kept doing her level best. She allowed others to help with her beautiful kiddos and she must have seen that she had no choice but to admit she couldn’t manage by herself. She seemed filled with grace even responding to my nosy but genuinely concerned texts. Family and friends stepped in with food and logistics help. Her work family, I presume, did the same. I know she’s been a valued employee for many years.

Hopefully, what Kathy noticed during this time was that the Lord is right beside us, loving us throughout the journey. When we feel crummy, when we speak angry words in frustration, when we are in the middle of a series of bad days– we are usually right in the middle of a God-filled time. Sometimes when it’s me in the center of the hurricane, I don’t notice it until later. However, that’s what I saw when I watched Kathy climb back the hill to health. I saw what a blessed woman she is, and I noticed how many people love her. She’s a very lovable person who does so much for others, therefore it was reassuring and gratifying to see the compassion returned to her. I think God loves when we lean in and let Him carry us. We are his beloved children, after all!

Kathy, I hope Charlie and the kids, your mom, dad, Renee, Jeff, Laine and Ty all have been spoiling you this weekend as you celebrate your birthday. You are an amazing, character-filled woman and you deserve all the laughs and smiles you can gather to celebrate YOU! I know my life is better for having met you and I hope the rest of 2019 will be all smiles and sunshine! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, KATHY!

It is courage, courage, courage that raises the blood of life to crimson splendor. Live bravely and present a brave front to adversity. Horace

Day 96 of 365: Libby Macomber

A couple of years ago, I was invited to celebrate a milestone birthday with my old neighbor and friend, Libby Macomber. I’ll be honest, as much as I enjoy people, I really didn’t want to go to this party. Libby’s lovely. She’s a gorgeous, and I mean gorgeous mom of two as well as a terrific human. It wasn’t her that was the problem. You see, Libby’s husband, Doug, had this idea that since Libby is the lead singer of a band (so is normally the performer), it might be fun for her to hear her friends humiliate themselves for an evening. So, her band members were to be in a studio, all set to play any song from their normal set list, but instead of Libby at the mic, those of us in attendance were REQUIRED to sing. UGH!!

Here’s what you need to understand about me. I love music. I’m not shy even a little. I know a lot of songs across a very wide swath of genres. In fact, at one time, I played the guitar. As mom says, I was strictly a “religious guitarist” because the I was “voluntold” by the nuns in grade school that I would be playing the guitar at school masses. I’m fairly certain it was their way of keeping me away from the microphone…? I mean, I’m not tone deaf or anything but let’s just say my voice leaves quite a bit to be desired. Also, I don’t love humiliation.

Tom, who does not lack courage but SERIOUSLY barely knows the words to the “Happy Birthday” song was to sing this duet with me. Oh Lord have mercy, I opined! Then, it hit me. Do you know what is brave? Libby Macomber singing on stage. It’s not like she grew up with a microphone in her hand. The woman was terrified when she began with her band, Circuit Thursday. When I learned she had decided to take that leap, I thought it was bold, courageous and completely AWESOME! What the heck is wrong with me, I thought? We went to Libby’s big party and we had A BALL. We were maybe last on the docket, and by the time it was our turn to sing, I am pretty sure I had been overserved? I’m going to blame Stan Crisci…? I remember laughing a lot and I am pretty sure Tom and I owe a HUGE apology to KT Tunstall.

So last night, Tom and I ran into Libby ON HER BIRTHDAY! Therefore, it behooves me today to point out to you, Libby, that while I have always admired you for your sense of humor and the loving and compassionate way you have raised your two kiddos, what I truly have been inspired by is your witness of courage. You stepped way outside your comfort zone to try something TOTALLY NEW….and now look at you!!? You’re my ROCKSTAR friend. How cool is that? Thanks for being someone who has reminded me by your example that sometimes the best things come from one courageous act! We’ll definitely catch one of your shows this summer!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LIBBY MAC!!

Here’s to strong women. May we know them. May we be them. May we raise them.

Today, I’d like to ask you all to raise a glass for my friend, Nancy Vanderkleed! Nancy is a long time family friend and a very close gal pal of my mom. She’s a bit of a world traveler, and the rumor is that on this day, her 70th birthday, she’s somewhere in France with her completely terrific husband, Stan!! Bon Anniversaire, Nan!!

Nancy is pictured above in Tramonti, Italy, which is a tiny town at the top of a mountain along the gorgeous Amalfi Coast. I took this photo of her on one of my most favorite days ever! Nancy and her super smart daughter, Erin along with Mom and I traveled together to Italy this past fall. I for one will never forget the adventure, and I feel so fortunate that the moms let us daughters tag along! Nancy isn’t Catholic and yet she patiently handled a few days in Rome with yours truly, which I am sure required a great deal of restraint. I wanted to see it all so I was a tad oblivious to those who had seen enough of the big city! Ha! As always, Nancy, you were a trooper and I am thankful and grateful for that experience– my one and only adventure abroad.

Nancy is a wife to a phenomenal character named Stan and the mother of two terrific daughters– Jill and Erin– and the grandmother of 6! She’s strong, fierce and passionate. Also? Nancy is one of the WORLDS BEST STORY TELLERS!! She’s engaging but also she just cackles when she laughs. It’s absolutely infectious. Nancy doesn’t obey all the rule because she isn’t interested in missing any of the fun. All of this shows when she tells a story. Her stories are loved by anyone who enjoys laughter– which is literally everyone. I spent a fair amount of time during my childhood sledding down the big hill behind her country house and just taking in the smiles of all the Vanderkleed clan. This is an entire family for whom I have terrific affection.

Nancy is supportive, resourceful, thrifty and faithful. She’s so beautiful and with the best hair EVER! She’s active in her church and a complete blessing to her family and wide circle of friends. She lives life to the fullest, she loves with her whole heart, and she sparkles. She may not see this message today, but when you do see it, Nan, I hope you will know how much I love and respect you. I wish you a VERY HAPPY 70TH AND MANY YEARS OF LAUGHTER AHEAD!!

Our children are our garden. They absorb our stress, just as they absorb our peace. They absorb our negativity just as they absorb our joy. We have the power to control what they absorb, but first we must tend to ourselves. -Rachel Macy Stafford

Day 93 of 365: BETSY KINDER

It’s a gloriously sunny day in the photo I have chosen today to honor my friend, Betsy Kinder. She’s pictured here with her husband Pat donning her usual smile that lights up the area she inhabits. She’s got three terrific kids (2 daughters and a son) and she’s a fellow Boilermaker fan!

Betsy is celebrating her birthday on Friday, so in advance of this auspicious occasion, I have decided to tell you what I think makes her just a colossally terrific wife, mother and friend. First of all, Betsy is inordinately positive. She has an infectious laugh and a heart of gold. I chose the quote above to honor her because at St. Louis de Montfort Catholic School where she works, as well as in her home life, Betsy exudes joyfulness. That is a contagious condition she passes along to all the young people she encounters. She’s remarkably magnetic and was gifted by the Lord with an oversized helping of kindness and compassion.

For those who know me well, I’ll share that Betsy is a “Shoebox Girl”. The Shoebox gals are a group of friends who began meeting about once a month (during the school year) to send care packages to our college-aged kiddos about 3 years ago. We drink wine, and toss a lot of sugar and good wishes in the mail to our kids. It’s a win-win little gig we’ve got going. It was this Shoebox adventure that introduced me further to the awesomeness that is Betsy. She’s fun and the owner of a terrific sense of humor. She can tell a story and because her eyes sparkle when she grins, I know I am going to be smiling with her almost instantly.

I’ve watched Betsy look out for the oldest son of a mutual friend who passed away a few years ago. The way she so selflessly loves him is a beautiful thing to witness, and it tugs at my heart strings. I know Shannon (and Jesus) are smiling down on Betsy for her pure goodness to Con and I’m pretty sure she knows it too. This is just one small example of the way she cares about others, and she’s filled to overflowing with integrity. She really does have a special knack for being the face of Christ to others– her faith shows in her attitude and her deeds each day!

Betsy, as you and your family celebrate your birthday this week, I hope that you will know just what an incredible woman those of us in your circle know you to be. You are honest, loyal, respectful and genuine. Whenever I run into you, my sense is that you are always authentically happy to see me. I have a warm spot in my heart for you because of the way you always make me feel accepted and welcomed. Thanks for all the smiles! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BETSY!! BOILER UP!!

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. (Eph. 4: 2)

Receptive and faithful women receive us as if we were Christ presenting Himself in the midst of the day. Janice Kunkel is such a woman. She’s virtuous, gracious and kind. I spied the photo of her, above, on her Facebook page, and I swiped it for this post because I love the way her genuine smile just shines as she sits in this kayak with a glass of wine.

Janice is the mother of three, as well as a wife and soon-to-be grandmother. She’s an incredibly bright and gentle woman. She’s a pediatrician whose patients I feel certain are incredibly blessed by her presence in their lives. I met Janice a few years ago at church and what I instantly noticed was just how articulate she is. It’s hard not to admire that she is just incredibly smart and full of love for the Lord! She and I are on the Gospel of Life Committee together. Finally, in recent months, we have taken the time to get to know each other a bit better. Don’t you just love when the Lord presents you the opportunity to become better acquainted with a stunningly wonderful person?

It’s so refreshing when a new friend is transparent enough to eschew the whole vagueness of dancing around reality and then truly lets you learn who they are and what they are about. Janice clearly values openness, connection, compassion and love. These are the qualities that made me instantly wish to own them a bit more in my life when we had lunch a few weeks back. How blessed are her children to have such a mother!

Janice is a pious and devout Catholic woman. Although I consider myself a woman of faith, I am pretty sure there’s more “Catholic juice” in her pinkie finger than I’ve got coursing through this whole body of mine. She’s not messing around, and frankly, I find this particular strength utterly inspiring. To her, truth and integrity matter. She’s a woman of character who is filled with the sort of strength only the Lord can inspire.

Thank you, Janice, for your friendship and for inspiring me to aim a little higher in my own spiritual life. You are a uniquely gifted, righteous, and truly beautiful woman!

“Do not wait for leaders; do it alone, person to person. Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies. — St. (Mother) Teresa of Calcutta

Where joylessness reigns, where humor dies, the spirit of Jesus Christ is assuredly absent. — Pope Benedict XVI

Day 91 of 365: Stan Crisci

Please forgive me in advance, Ragu, but I just cannot resist writing about you on April Fool’s Day. Somehow, it just feels right! Ha?! Meet my friend, Stan Crisci, pictured at left above with his gorgeous wife, Michelle. I don’t know how long I’ve been calling him “The Big Ragu” but it’s been a number of years.

Allow me to explain. Stan has among the largest personalities I have ever encountered. He’s a Ball State Cardinal with volume control issues similar to yours truly, and he’s just the ultimate Italian guy. He’s the youngest of 10 (I think) and all of that just shows in his every word and action. When one runs into Stan the man, there’s going to be a HUGE WELCOME and maybe a slightly inappropriate hug too. He has a knack for making everyone in his path feel noticed. He’s got the gift of gab and is perpetual captain of the party!

Stan is generous with others, and he’s got an enormous, soft heart. He’s a faithful Catholic guy who has never figured out exactly what foods are legal on Fridays in Lent, but he’s got people for every problem under the sun. Apparently, I am his resident expert on meatless Fridays! I know each spring I can count on a few clarification texts about things like eggs, cheese, etc. I’m not going to lie, I truly do love Stan because despite the hot air, he makes me laugh without fail, and laughing is my favorite!

Stan has three wonderful kiddos– Sam, Lauren and Kylie. He loves them fiercely. I know this because for a decade he was my backdoor neighbor, and you can’t watch a family raise their children without learning a few things about them. There isn’t a soul who knows him who isn’t aware of this fact, so I sure hope those three kiddos feel it too. Stan is a touch dangerous and just a wee bit outrageous, but he’s truly just a fine man who I consider a terrific friend. I’ve seen him go out of his way to help others find jobs, pay bills, and move forward in their lives with dignity. His generosity is undeniable.

Some really smart guy whose name I can’t remember at this moment said “Humor is a mysterious but unmistakable charism inseparable from faith.” I love that bit of philosophy and believe it holds true for my friend, The Big Ragu. Stan’s the real deal, a man of many talents, and a lovely human being– no April Fooling! Thank you, Stan, for the always warm and sunny smile! I’m grateful for the sunshine you always add to my week when I see you.