Author Archives: joyocala

What is it about seeing a little baby that brings out the smiles in all of us? Suddenly it’s “goo-goo, gah, gah” or “cootshie, cootshie, coo” while we’re reaching to tweak his cheeks or trying to steal a little hug. … Continue reading →

Here’s a common question often asked after the Christmas Holyday has passed by. I remember trying to keep a list so that I could give an accurate answer when asked. “Socks, a magazine, sweater,” and on and on. One time, … Continue reading →

Today we remember St John. He was a fisherman, a son of Zebedee, and the brother of James. He is probably the disciple whom Jesus loved mentioned in the Gospel of John. It was to John that Jesus entrusted his … Continue reading →

I have always found the way New Year’s Day is celebrated in the American south interesting, if not embraceable. In this region it is traditional to have a meal of hog jowls, Hoppin’ John, and turnip or collard greens. The … Continue reading →

In 1986, Debbie and I made our first move as a married couple – to Guam. It was to be my second Navy duty station. It was pre-described to us as a “poor man’s Hawaii”. It was truly as beautiful … Continue reading →

What a glorious Christmas song:  “O Holy Night the stars are brightly shining!”  There we are on the darkened hillside with the shepherds.  Only the stars light up the clear night sky.  The music builds and our voices go higher … Continue reading →

Tree decorating during the Christmas holiday is an absolute favorite time for me.  While carols play, the boxes of ornaments are strewn across the floor as I pick and choose the special place to hang them on the tree for … Continue reading →

When my sons were born, this former 2nd grade teacher was inspired and proud to create original birth announcements. I handcrafted dozens of darling little football players wearing green and gold (of course!) with the number 12 emblazoned on their … Continue reading →

I promised the rest of the story about St. Bibiana, so here it is. Bibiana, also known as Vivian, was a child of the early Christian church, living around the time of Julian the Apostate in the year 363. Her … Continue reading →

O Key of David and scepter of the House of Israel; you open and no one can shut; you shut and no one can open: Come and lead the prisoners from the prison house, those who dwell in darkness and … Continue reading →