This morning, Sister Mary Claire and I set off down the south road toward St. Mary’s. The trees along the road were full of color, their leaves glowing bright orange and red in the early light. A soft breeze rustled through the branches, carrying a few fallen leaves along the gravel road as we walked. Mini, as always, trotted happily beside us, her little bottom wiggling, since she doesn’t have a tail to wag. She seemed extra lively today, sniffing at every leaf and looking back to make sure we were close behind.
The south road feels different —it’s a little more open, with beautiful trees and a lovely view of St. Mary's off in the distance. I love how the sunlight hits the open spaces, making everything golden and bright. Sister Mary Claire and I didn’t talk much, just walked quietly together, enjoying the beauty around us. I said my usual prayer in my heart as we went: "O Mary of Grace and Mother of God, May I tread in the paths that the righteous have trod!"
When we arrived at St. Mary’s, Father LeRoy gave his homily based on the Gospel from Luke 12:49-53. He talked about the fire Jesus said He came to bring on the earth—not a fire of destruction, but one that purifies and lights the way. Father told us how following Christ sometimes means making hard choices that set us apart, even from our own families. He compared it to a road through a field—sometimes, we have to walk a different path from others, but the light of Christ will always guide us. I liked how he put it, and I thought about our walk down the south road. It’s not the usual path, but it’s still a beautiful way to go, just like the way of faith.
After Mass, something wonderful happened! When we got back to the big house, Tom called me into his office. He had a surprise—a postcard of Camp Littlemore! It was from a photo Sister Mary Claire had taken last week, showing the prayer wagon, the chicken coop, and Shaggycoat’s dam by the stream. It looked so peaceful and perfect, just like it feels when I’m there. Tom said he thought it would be a great way to share our little piece of the world with visitors. I couldn’t believe it! Seeing Camp Littlemore as a postcard felt like something special.
Back home in the prayer wagon, I spent some time with Mini, who was already sleepy from the long day. I said my evening prayers, thanking God for the beauty of the day and all the blessings He’s given me:
"Dear Lord, thank You for this day and for the fire of faith that lights my way. Please bless Sister Mary Claire, Mini, and all my loved ones. Keep Shaggycoat and my dear brown hen safe, and watch over Vreni, even though she’s far away. Guide us always with Your light. Amen."
With that, I closed my eyes, and the peace of the day lingered in my heart as I drifted off to sleep.
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