San Xavier Mission

[lizzybennet]

Yesterday we went to the San Xavier Mission. We didn't realize until we got there that there was also a large pow wow going on. Pete and I went to watch the pow wow for a while. He seemed to respond almost involuntarily to the strong beating of the drums. He'd be walking along and then he's suddenly pause, lift is arms out from his side and start to bounce in rhythm with the drumming. I took a few pictures, although I felt a little sacrilegious doing so. We all had Indian Fry Bread for lunch. Chris, Benji and I all took pictures of the Mission. It was beautiful inside, so many bright colors. I caught Pete just in the knick of time before he blew out a prayer candle. Also, there was a statue representing St. Xavier in death. It was lying in a glass coffin and had a quilt laid over him. Attached to the blanket were tiny charms, some were arms, legs, chest, eyes, etc. I assume these represent different afflictions that people are suffering and were asking St. Xavier for help with. Also, there were pictures and letters attached to the quilt. It was very touching. I'm glad we went. There was a tall hill outside with a cross at the top. It had a trail leading to the top, but we knew we couldn't make it with the kids and FIL so we'll have to save that for another trip.

Last night the kids stayed with a babysitter and the grown ups went to see "Hitch". I enjoyed it a lot. Will Smith is a funny guy. The King of Queens guy did a great job, too. The only thing that bothers me about all the romantic comedies that I've seen lately is that everyone in them is rich. They all have highly successful careers, awesome apartments, and an endless supply of cash. I know, I know, it's a make believe movie. On Friday,I also watched "The Village" for the first time. I loved it!

I just finished reading "Peace Like a River" by Leif Enger. It was absolutely one of the best books I have read in years. Anyone who knows me knows that I am always ready to recommend a good book. I love to read, I love stories. But this one is now at the top of my list, right next to "Pride and Prejudice" and "To Kill a Mockingbird".

I'm so glad it is Sunday. I am just going to hang out in my bedroom most of the day. All the guys are sitting in the living room watching old episodes of "Robotech". I wish there was another woman in this house. I am outnumbered six to one!

Comments

[blackie-fox.livejournal.com]

Milagros. That's what those charms were. You've probably seen the crosses that have the charms nailed on them. A family would have a cross (and some still do this) and when they need prayer you would go to your church and purchase a little charm. Then you could nail it up to your cross and the prayers would go to heaven. I was in Tubac with my mom the last time I was in AZ and they had this great store with all this fantastic milagros in them. And there were hands and feet and hearts and even a few penises in there. 'Cause every body part gets sick, ha ha ha.

I bought beepboop and her husband a small cross with a bunch of the milagros already nailed into it.

I think mom took us to that mission. I know she took us to some really amazing mission. I really miss the west. I loved Tucson. I feel very called to it. Health wise I really should consider moving there. (Mike did find a job for a director of admissions at some college in Flagstaff, but he isn't quite qualified yet.) It's just so beautiful there. I love the Mexican culture too and all the spanish ancestory.