My Heart of the Matter

A Walk Through Holy Week

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Palm Sunday Jerusalem 2000

Take a walk with me through Holy Week.

Palm Sunday

Twenty-six years ago, I  stood on the Mount of Olives and experienced a Palm Sunday I will never forget. In 2000 during my very first trip to the Holy Land, our group followed the same path into the Old City that Jesus took for His triumphal entry. I can still hear the drums and flutes, and the echoes of “Hosanna In The Highest” as we walked. It was a moment of pure jubilation that I’ve  replayed in my mind a thousand times since. Feeling so grateful for that “God ordained” journey today.

Jesus’ Humble Entry

Jesus must fulfill Zechariah’s prophecy by entering into the city on a donkey.

Sunday morning at Mass we all received blessed palm branches. Many of the parishioners will weave the branches into crosses, but because these branches are blessed they should not be thrown in the trash. You can burn them or return them to the church, where they will be incinerated and used for the next Ash Wednesday service.

Monday of Holy Week

On this day, Jesus entered the temple and was enraged with the merchants, who were charging inflated rates and robbing Gentiles of the opportunity to pray and worship.

Tuesday of Holy Week

After a busy day of calling out the Pharisees (Matthew 23:13-35) and preaching on the Mount of Olives that evening, Jesus and his disciples walked to Bethany to stay the night.  Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, anointed Jesus’ feet with expensive spikenard oil. Some of disciples were frustrated because they believed that this expensive oil could have been sold and the money used to give to the poor. Jesus understood the love and care Mary displayed and greatly appreciated her devotion.

Wednesday of Holy Week

Wednesday of Holy Week  is also referred to as spy Wednesday. Judas Iscariot spies on Jesus because he is secretly going to have Him arrested.

Holy Thursday

Holy Thursday foot washing, Old City Upper Room

Holy Thursday is the first day of Triduum. Triduum means a period of three days. These three days are the most important days in the Christian liturgical year. On this day the Lord’s Supper took place, Jesus instituted the Sacrament of the Eucharist and He washed the feet of His disciples.

Good Friday

Why do we refer to this dreadful day as Good Friday? Jesus, with His suffering and sacrifices, saved us from our sins. Though this was a tragic day, it will always be known as one of the greatest days in history. (Luke 23: 1-24)

There is no Mass on this day but some churches offer a service observing the Stations of the Cross. If possible observe a quiet time between twelve and three p.m. in remembrance of what our Lord endured for us.

Holy Saturday

Holy Saturday is a day to prepare for Easter. There is no morning Mass offered; it all takes place at night at the first Celebration of the Easter Vigil Mass. Each parish celebrates in its own way. The church is completely dark. The priest walks in with one candle. The Paschal candle is lit symbolizing Jesus is the light. The catechumens who have been preparing for their initiation into the Catholic church will walk in holding a single candle representing Jesus’ resurrection.

Easter Sunday

He is Risen!

My Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, let us feel the emptiness of the church on Good Friday – no Mass celebration because we need to go deeper into the suffering You endured. Restore in each of us a new joy  for Your glorious resurrection. May the catechumens be forever changed. Lord,  show a glimpse of what is to come. Let Your holy light be seen throughout the world. Amen.

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My Heart of the Matter

Me Vs. AI

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From my garden

Me vs. AI: Record-Breaking Heat and Mother Nature’s Beauty (The title could also read: Me Against Goliath.)

The Experiment

After completing the research for my last blog, a friend suggested trying AI. A quick Google search returned an overwhelming number of options — so the third one down the list seemed as good a place to start as any. Copying and pasting my blog to their site was effortless, but what happened next was nothing short of astonishing. The transformation took place in seconds. Before my eyes had fully adjusted to the screen, the work was already done — my entire piece rewritten in less than a minute.

The first thought that came to mind: Wow. This is unbelievable.

But when the blog was read back, it was polished. Nearly perfect. Reading the new words over and over made it feel like they were always mine. Pride swelled — not the quiet kind.

When it was read aloud to Mike, he went straight to the point: “You don’t need an editor. Use AI.”

The Secret

A conscious decision was made: tell no one.

The daily Bible verse shared in the video — the one reminding everyone to read the blog — made no mention of any change. Not a word to the audience. Not a word to the editor.

When the review session came, there was almost nothing to correct. A deleted comma here and there, but nothing significant. And yet, the whole time, a quiet weight was building — the dread of what had to come next.

Dear Lord, I can’t do this to her. She’s a personal friend. How — how, Lord — am I going to tell her?

The title could also read: me against Goliath.

The Bubble Burst

Still somewhere high in the atmosphere, a text message arrived from son Mikos: “Did you use AI?”

The reply: “Why?”

Like a balloon punctured mid-air, the ego came crashing down. Will others know? Dear Lord, what doors have I opened?

Later that week, confidants Jo, Helen, and Sarah were called and asked to read the blog. Their verdict was immediate — these weren’t the usual words. Not the familiar style. Guilt moved in and made itself at home.

Dinner

Over an enchilada dinner with the family, Mikos was asked what he really thought.

“Well, Mom — are you perfect? Because the writing was too perfect.”

In the silence of the mind: Pretty near perfect. A laugh covered the rest.

Then Sonja offered her two cents: “You can use AI, but you need to guide it with your own words.”

Another silent reply: Really? It was through the grace of God that any of this happened at all.

Record-Breaking Heat

In 2025, the entire month of March was what we love about our state — the weather was in the mid-70s. Not this year! This year we are walking in sandals, putting on sunscreen, and running our air conditioners!

Belen De Leon (local Los Angeles meteorologist) said the current high-pressure system is extending very high into the atmosphere, “more like something you’d see in the middle of the summer.”

“[The high-pressure system] is very tall. So, the taller and the stronger that high pressure system is, the more air it pushes down,” she said. “And, when air sinks, it warms and it compresses. When that air compresses, it heats up. Plus, we’ve got clear skies, wall-to-wall sunshine — that’s what causes the temperatures to climb so quickly during the day.”

De Leon said the biggest issue with this system is that it’s not budging. 

By Monica Garske  

The Upside of Scorching Heat: Roses and Hummingbirds

Every morning I wake up to more roses! So many that I’m running low on vases! Honestly, it’s like summer — a bumper crop of beautiful blooms.

Mike is using a new, environmentally safe treatment to protect them from aphids and all the other pests that attack our roses.

Roses for the Blessed Mother Mary

Our Blessed Mother Mary loves roses, and in many of her apparitions she appears with them. I, too, am a rose lover — nothing can compare to the scent of a rose. When the scent of roses fills a room, it gives us a glimpse of what heaven has in store.

Although I was not born with a green thumb, I repurpose all my banana peels and eggshells. If it’s late at night, I toss the banana peels into a flower pot. The next morning, Mike discovers that I missed by a long shot — the peels landed on the concrete instead.

I microwave and crush the eggshells, then scatter them throughout my garden. Last week, I wanted to make sure my orange tree received some nourishing eggshells. As I bent down to scatter them, I made eye contact with the most beautiful nesting hummingbird. We respectfully greeted each other, and I asked the tiny feathered creature if I could take her photo. She graciously agreed.

 

Roses for The Blessed Mother Mary
My yard is a quiet sanctuary for hummingbirds. This will be the third year that the same hummingbird returns to the nest outside my kitchen’s Dutch doors. My cat Prudie is too up in years to attempt catching anything that moves, so it’s a safe haven.

 

The Orange tree humming bird
The Dutch door humming bird

The Eggshells

After examining the photos of both nests, I noticed that the hummingbirds actually used the recycled eggshells I had scattered in the garden! Is it possible that Mother Nature in all her glory allowed me to be part of the nest-building process? Nonetheless, I am happy to contribute.

My Prayer

Dear Lord, in Jeremiah 29:11, Your word says that You have a plan for me. I thank You for opening my spirit to truth and redirecting my path.

The Egg Shells

After examining the photos of both nests, the humming birds use the recycled egg shells that I scattered in the garden! Is it possible that Mother Nature in all her glory allowed me to be part of the nest building process? Nonetheless I am happy to contribute.

My Prayer

Dear Lord, in Jeremiah 29: 11, Your word says that you have a plan for me. I thank You for opening my spirit to truth and redirecting my path.

You are the center of our world, and, as imperfect as it is today, Your Word tells me that You are in control (Psalm 103:19). I pray for all the ungodly disruptions we are currently enduring. Be with all those who are fighting for our freedom, and bring them safely back home. Lord, I pray for an end to this war.

Let Your peace prevail. Amen.

God is good, and so is my editor! May we be blessed with cooler weather, and do take time to smell the roses.

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My Heart of the Matter

A Lenten Reflection

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Photo courtesy of EWTN

A Lenten Season Reflection: From Filet-O-Fish to Faith and Renovations

Welcome back to the blog! This week, I’m diving into a mix of personal stories, food adventures, and the spiritual journey of Lent. We’ll talk about the humble origins of the Filet-O-Fish sandwich, some recent fast-food escapades (both wins and disappointments), a little about the quirks of Southern California road trips, and a heartfelt update on my Lenten experience and home renovation challenges in Santa Barbara. So, pour yourself a cup of coffee and join me for a stroll through memory lane, a few culinary detours, and reflections on faith.

The Filet-O-Fish: More Than Just a Sandwich

Did you know the Filet-O-Fish sandwich dates back to 1962? I was ten when it came onto the scene, thanks to Lou Groen, a McDonald’s franchise owner in Cincinnati, Ohio. Here’s the story: His neighborhood was overwhelmingly Catholic—about 87%—so during Lent, when many abstain from meat, his Fridays were rough. Profits during that season dipped to around $75 a day. Being Catholic himself, Lou saw the problem firsthand and pitched a fish sandwich to Ray Kroc, McDonald’s CEO. Kroc wasn’t convinced at first and instead pushed another idea—the Hula Burger, a grilled pineapple and cheese sandwich. They decided on a contest: whichever sandwich sold better would make it to the menu. The Filet-O-Fish won, and the rest is fast-food history, with the sandwich officially joining the permanent menu in 1965.

The Filet-O-Fish has been my go-to over the years, especially during Lent. But, let me tell you, my recent experiences haven’t exactly been legendary. One afternoon, I suggested we grab a Filet-O-Fish for lunch. Sounds simple, right? Not when you have to wrestle with the McDonald’s app first. We ended up spending $21 for two sandwiches, which is a bit rich for fast food, only to find the sandwich disappointingly dry and light on tartar sauce—the true star of the show. We tried again last Friday, armed with the app and a clear plan, paying $2.99 each. This time, the sandwich was still missing that saucy sparkle I remember, lingering as a dry reminder that nostalgia doesn’t always match reality.

Fast Food Redemption on the Road

On a brighter note, our frequent trips to Santa Barbara have introduced us to some new favorites — Mesa Cafe for breakfast, where the generous portions keep us fueled for hours, is a standout. But our day trips aren’t without their quirks, especially when you’re juggling charging your electric car with road trip hunger and bathroom breaks.

Our experience with LA gas stations taught us a tough lesson: don’t count on public restrooms there. Instead, we opt for stops at Agoura Hills/Calabasas off-ramps—easy on, easy off, with friendly amenities. Since we don’t usually buy gas, we make sure to grab something small because, well, you gotta honor the hospitality somehow. I told Mike, “I’m done paying $20 just to use the restroom,” so we stopped at McDonald’s instead, ordering two cheeseburgers to go. And guess what? Those burgers turned out to be pure joy—ketchup oozing out, juicy patties, the kind of food experience that can make a fast-food stop feel like a small victory. Though I had this joyous food experience, I’m done with Filet-O-Fish sandwiches, even for $2.99 on Fridays. It’s not worth another disappointment.

Lent 2026: Fish on the Menu

Speaking of Lent, plenty of fast-food chains recognize the season with fish-forward menus. Del Taco offers crispy, beer-battered and shrimp tacos, Chick-fil-A jumps in with their own fish sandwiches, and Arby’s recently rolled out a Cajun Fish sandwich alongside their usual fish options. It’s nice to see these choices expanding, making it easier for folks sticking to Lenten traditions to find something tasty on the go.

Closer to home, we regularly support St. Norbert’s parish fish fry on Fridays during Lent. It’s only $12, delicious, and serves a wonderful cause—raising funds for eighth graders heading to Washington, D.C. After dinner, the Stations of the Cross service at 7 p.m. is a peaceful, reflective way to end the day. Lent, in all its forms—from fast food specials to community fellowship—feels like a season during which the sacred and the everyday intersect.

My Lent Journey: Wrestling with Grace

Honestly, Lent hasn’t been all smooth sailing for me. Discipline and love have been a challenge, and when I stumble, my instinct is to be hard on myself, like punching the air with oversized gloves. But Lent is also a time for reflection—towards myself, and toward God’s patient guidance. I want to draw from the well of His mercy, let Him speak to my soul, and recognize when I’m off course.

More than being convicted of my shortcomings, I crave the peace of a clear conscience and a straightened path. Lent is a pilgrimage, and I want to feel ever more deeply the holy presence that walks beside me.

Update from Santa Barbara: Renovation Realities and New Dreams

We didn’t plan, really, to invest in a renovation project in our twilight years, but here we are. Our Santa Barbara home has been under construction since last August, but it’s been a slow and costly journey. Permits in this coastal city come with unique rules designed to protect the environment and architecture. Our windows, initially installed, didn’t pass inspection due to new codes requiring stronger protection against Pacific moisture, meaning they had to be redone.

Santa Barbara Kitchen remodel
Santa Barbara Kitchen remodel

After a recent rainstorm, we discovered the roof needed replacement. Adding to this, plumbing and electrical systems required updating, none of which were in the original budget. Despite the delays and surprises, I have developed a new-found love for Santa Barbara. Though the atmosphere and wardrobe is relax and lay back, I like to dress up.  But If all goes well, Mike and I plan to make it our home, God willing.

A Prayer for the Journey

I leave you with my prayer for this journey:

Dear Lord, thank You for loving us unconditionally. It doesn’t matter where we are in our walk or how imperfect we feel—You take us as we are and say, “Come to me, and I will give you rest.” Thank You for meeting me when I stray and redirecting me to Your path. Forgive my transgressions and let me enter Your holy chambers with a pure and contrite heart. Amen.

How’s your Lent shaping up? Whether smooth or stormy, remember you’re not walking this road alone. I look forward to sharing more stories, reflections, and maybe even some recipes next week. Until then, may your days be blessed and your sandwiches delightfully saucy. Maybe not so much the recipes – after all I’m still the Reluctant Chef!

 

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