Last week we celebrated Ash Wednesday.
Alistair and I went to Mass in the morning, received our ashes and were reminded that one day, we will be ash as well. I forgot it was there most of the day. I went to pick up Elyse from dance, and her ballet teacher went up to me, grabbed my hand and said "you're so good for going. I need to go there tonight too". I had NO idea what she was talking about and just smiled.
Walking to the car I was perplexed. Was she talking about the gym? On occasion I will run into a vaguely familiar face, and they will greet me and talk to me as though we've met. I can't say I've gotten better at pretending I remember. Then I will see them in my class at the gym the next week. So I thought... do I look like I went to the gym??
I got in the car, and saw my ashes in the mirror and the light bulb went off. Church. She meant Church.
I hate to say it, but Lent creeped up on me this year. Being the start was on Valentine's Day and on a week Cole was gone. My life was busier than normal. But I couldn't decide between no treats (cookies, candy, cakes, cupcakes, etc) and no shopping (random things I decide I need, like clothes, books, stuff...). But groceries, gas, food, minimal family entertainment being okay. Two things that would be hard for me to give up, but at the same time good for our family. So I picked both.
So far, so good. Lent is 40 days and nights from Ash Wednesday to Easter. Not including Sundays. Sundays are a day of rest. I could have chosen to add something to my life instead of a sacrifice, but honestly, one more thing in my schedule, while my husband is gone, is more than I think I can handle right now. (plus no meat on Fridays!?)
