BELATED MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY 2010!
The new format for this year-end, New Year's (what used to be Christmas) update letter has created a bit of delay in getting this link sent and posted. But hopefully with a blog, this format will get easier and accomplish its purpose in letting you know the new things going on in my life, which this year included Tomo (see above with Kayla, Brandon, and Micah) - the godkids' dog - giving me a "god-dog" and making me a godfather again!2009 has been a good but busy year as I continue at FST (Franciscan School of Theology) in Berkeley, pursuing a second master degree and serving in student leadership to "green" the school in its environmental practices. I am thoroughly enjoying my studies which have focused on creation theology, environmental ethics, and the Franciscan tradition. Though I originally thought I would take an extra year and complete my thesis in 2011, I now plan to finish up my degree this upcoming May 2010. Much encouragement from various venues has me thinking about doctoral studies and returning to pastoral ministry. We'll see how the coming months develop. The priority now however is completing my thesis which focuses on St. Francis' Canticle of Creatures in the iconic imaging of the saint from Assisi.
Speaking of Assisi, through a scholarship from the school, I was blessed this summer with a 12-day pilgrimage to Italy to journey in the spirit of Francis and Clare. It was truly the trip of a lifetime as I was able to walk in the footsteps of Francis and experience the renewing presence of God in the places where the saint prayed - among the trees of the Carceri, on the mountainous cliffs of LaVerna, from the vistas at Greccio. Staying in Assisi for nearly 10 days, we rounded out our time in Rome before heading home. Click here for pics.Italy was not only a time of spiritual renewal and learning, it was a time of fun as I went on my chocolate cake search. I discovered Panforte al Cioccolate in Assisi and savored my first experience with drinking chocolate in LaVerna, both experiences I recorded on my blogs. Check them out via the links.
In addition to a wonderful time in Italy, I was also able to connect with an old friend in Chicago with whom I traveled to Spain on pilgrimage with Sts. John of the Cross and Teresa of Avila. Here we are (left) remembering our time in Spain, toasting with tapas and excellent sangria. Though it had been a long time since we talked, it was almost as if no time had passed. I've had a few experiences like that this year via Facebook as I also reconnected with old college friends whom I've not seen in nearly 20 years. It was great catching up with Alex in September and Carol in October as they traveled to the NorCal area for visits.
I did join the Facebook world back in May, with chocolate being a dominant theme in my status updates and photos. This "obsession" with cacao led to a new blog, "my CHOCOLATE life" where I've posted my chocolate reviews and ramblings. Back in November, I was honored to have one of my reviews featured on the homepage of foodbuzz.com, another food blog site I participate in. Yes, chocolate has become a fascination and hobby for me. I even have my family in on the chocolate action (see above) as my mom (grandma) and the nieces (Teresa and Natalie) lick their spoons after helping me make my infamous "That can't be vegan" Chocolate Pie. For more of my spoon-licking chocolate adventures from 2009, check out my Chocolate Photo Album on Flickr.Along with my chocolate blog, I also have "my VEGAN life" blog which featured a series this year on the Standard American Diet (SAD) and global food trends. And just in case you're wondering, I'm still a live-food vegan in terms of my dietary choices and find that it continues to work for me physically, ethically, and environmentally (though I do enjoy my two vegan exceptions -- Indian food and chocolate cake).
And given my vegan exceptions of chocolate, Indian buffets, and hobby of sampling all things chocolate (with nephew Tyus - left -at Hometown Buffet - which doesn't do chocolate well), I still continue to run regularly. Though I did not enter any races this year, I still get out 3-4 times a week, averaging about 21-30 miles weekly. On the mornings when I'm not running, I have a core strengthening, weight training, yoga routine which I enjoy.One of the big changes in 2009 was my work transition from Redwood Glen. The outdoor education program which was at the camp during the school year did not renew its contract this academic year due to budget cuts. Unfortunately, staff reductions at Redwood Glen followed and I am now one of the 10% formerly employed workers in our country receiving unemployment. Though I am volunteering and maintaining my residence at Redwood Glen, the best way to reach me via mail is at my parents' place in Hercules as I commute to classes in Berkeley from there during the weekdays. My contact info is in the right column. Email is always best - larry dot jay at mac dot com.
As I look forward to 2010, there will be a changes ahead as I anticipate graduating in May, beginning a DMin program, considering a PhD in environmental theology and ethics, and searching for a new ministry setting. Keep me in your thoughts and prayers. And if you hear of any good ministry opportunities that may be a good fit for me, please please let me know.Yes, decisions, changes, and plain old hard work lie ahead in the coming months, but I am thankful for the encouragement of friends like you, and the support of FST classmates (see above). But before my final semester begins, I have the privilege of accompanying my mom in January on a 2-week cruise around New Zealand, followed by 3-days at the Australian Tennis Open - all expenses paid. Thanks Dad (who didn't want to go!)
With another year wrapping up, I trust that you are well. For those who have been on my mailing list for years, thank you for your cards, photos, and update letters. For those who have found me this year, it's nice renewing friendships again (even if it is just on Facebook!) And if you're not sure how to reach me, my updated contact information will always be found on facebook or this blog site - http://update-me-larry.blogspot.com/. Pretty convenient, huh?
I hope to see more of you this upcoming year. Until then, have a happy and safe 2010. And don't forget to stop and enjoy the chocolate.
Peace,
Larry
