A New Pope, A New Vision

Today, Roman Catholics throughout the world are talking about a candid interview Pope Francis gave, where he shared his perspective on some controversial issues, including abortion and homosexuality.

His progressive, inclusive approach is a stunning change from his predecessor. You can excerpts from the interview here on MSN.

His words give me hope, that the Church will realize it IS possible to stay true to itself, yet also become a welcoming, accepting, loving place for all. 

An Interesting Take on Gen Y

A friend shared this excellent, though-provoking blog post that theorizes why the young adults in "Generation Y" are so unhappy.  The overall gist:  delusion leads to disillusionment.

Before you disagree, read the article all the way through: Why Gen Y Yuppies are Unhappy

Pinecone Philosophy

I bought some cinnamon-scented pine cones and mini-pumpkins today to decorate the interior of the house for Fall. Such a simple little thing, but it really helps set a mood to welcome the new season. Pine cones were always one of my favorite things when I was a child--I used to love how you can turn them upside down and see the silhouette of a big pine tree...as if it knows somehow, no matter how far away it travels from home, to never forget where it came from.

The Feast

I grew up in Brooklyn, New York, where the big highlight of the summer season was the Italian Feasts held in Bensonhurst. There were amusement park rides, carnival games, popcorn, cotton candy, and food vendors selling the most delicious homemade Italian specialties: sausage and peppers, meatball heroes, porchetta sandwiches, and hot fried zeppole. 

Today, the Sons of Italy held an Italian Feast in a nearby town, and it instantly brought back so many wonderful childhood memories. The aroma of the foods cooking transported me right back to those good ole days in Brooklyn. We bought zeppole, ate sausage and peppers, rice balls, fried ravioli, and the girls won some stuffed animal prizes at the dart throw game. The park where it was held was packed with people, and we even spotted Caroline Manzo, one of the "Real Housewives of New Jersey" at a vendor booth. I overheard several attendees describing it as "a madhouse", but I loved every minute of it!