Smoke on the Water

Ahhhh, Minnesota in February. Nothing like it! We're just getting out from under another few days in the Polar Vortex, that big purple and black circle that slides down the weather maps to clasp us from time to time in its bright, bitter grip. Windchills were -34 in St. Paul yesterday. Though there is ice on the Minnesota River, large areas are still open, and because that water is warmer than the air, steam rises from it. On a windy day, it's like watching a ballet. The handsome fellow at right was dining alone in the woods at Fort Snelling State Park.

Today I'm grateful for: getting caught up at work, the music of Loreena McKennitt, Ann W and Joan K both celebrating birthdays today, my housemates Dodo and Suzanne, a tasty lunch of Cambodian curry soup and a good visit with Liz. Praying today for: JH and MK both having surgery this week, Selamawit, for Demond's parents and grandparents and for his cousin, the people of St. Stephen's Parish, esp. MH, CM and MW, Fathers Joe Williams and John Shelley, Archbishop Nienstedt, the Sisters of St. Joseph in France.

For the poor and the oppressed, for those unemployed and homeless,for prisoners and captives, for all who remember and care for them, we pray, Lord, have mercy. Lenten Daily Prayer at csjstpaul.org