It wasn’t exactly cool today, but it was definitely a good solid ten degrees less than the average temperature we’ve faced the last couple months. The relief of gradually lowering temperatures has been very moderate, reminding me nothing in this life is pure bliss. I know that even in October we can expect some oppressive heat here and there. But there is something hopeful this month of year. The promise of cool weather, eventually. A foretaste of what God has in store for those who love Him, i.e. the eternal reward.
So today’s venture across town to the annual September St. Lorenzo Filipino Catholic festival at St. Bernard’s Church was a reminder of Fall. I recall the feeling of ease I had attending this event last year with better weather conditions, celebrating Filipino culture. Lechon or roasted pig, panceat noodles, spring rolls, macaroni salad, leche flan, sticky rice, etc. was a welcome spread, though I concentrated on the lower carb foods. An afternoon program unfolded of traditional music and dancing, in costume, by children and then by adults. Local clergy including the Bishop sat watching and eating at a center table. For at least once a year, this particular local Filipino community gathers to honor their Catholic faith, and Catholic culture.
After a while though I took a mental break to contemplate possible plans for this Fall. I don’t know about you, but the intensity of the deep summer heat and humidity makes me feel sleepy, dulled, and dormant. Once daily temps drop into the 70’s I come back to life, so to speak. The five senses become fully integrated once again, the mind alert and sharp, the body more energized. A long list of Fall plans unfolds promising renewal and festivity.
Here are our tentative plans for the next couple months, likewise with plans for corresponding blog posts and pics:
1. Fly-fishing for trout at Marvel trout camp just below Lake Tenkiller.
2. Camping at Rober’s Cave State Park.
3. Rent a cabin at Greenleaf lake, with hiking and canoeing.
4. Christ the King Festival in St. Mary’s, KS.
5. Weekend backyard fires with hot cocoa and whiskey.
6. A personal retreat out at Clear Creek monastery.
7. More fly-fishing locally - Pretty Water Lake in Sapulpa, Mohawk Park.
8. Halloween cinema classics during October.
9. Hiking at local Red Bud nature preserve (my favorite place to hike) and Turkey Mountain.
10. Watching OU Football games, OU being my alma mater. They’re dominating again this year.
Praying next week is even cooler than this week.