Kearns Family Pilgrimage USA

Some Post Pilgrimage Thoughts.....

2009-07-29T20:18:00.000-07:00

First of all I feel that our pilgrimage was full of such grace, provided to us from God, through your intercessions. I have received a significant number of e-mails stating that families were praying for us during this adventure.

I must say, I could feel your prayers.

We set out on this pilgrimage with 2 distinct things in mind:

1. To see if God was calling us to move out of California.

2. To reconnect with our 15 1/2 year old son and repair the damage that California culture had done after he rejoined a "traditional catholic" school after years of homeschooling.

The 30 day pilgrimage was the best vacation /retreat / pilgrimage that we have ever had. And that is stating a lot, since we have had many adventures in Guatemala, Mexico, cross country excursions, etc.

Yet this was the most prayerful, grace filled, pilgrimage and journey ever.

I could feel God's hand in our life each day.

God placed people and events in our path frequently to state and confirm His wishes and direction for our family clearly and unmistakably.

Can you believe that we traveled for 30 days, 8000 miles, in a truck with a mom, a dad, and two teenagers, and the kids never complained once, not even a negative comment...... Is that God grace or what?

Can you believe that while walking down a country road in Minnesota with my son, and discussing my concerns about his year back in Traditional School, giving examples to my son of how the culture separated him from God, and how it produced such negative fruit, my son agreed with me and gave no opposition to returning to homeschooling....... Is that God's grace or what. (To know Sean, how social he is, you would know that this was divine intervention)

And most of all, God clearly showed us just how far the California culture has strayed from holiness and makes it is almost impossible to raise children with catholic values. We have now found a perfect place to raise our children and will be making plans to move this next summer.

As planned, this was much more than a vacation. It was an opportunity to have a prayerful dialogue with God. An opportunity for a family to reunite and heal, to repair the damage that a secular society can instill so quickly, and fill our hearts with such compassion, love, and joy.

You might say that our family didn't seem to be struggling, in many ways we were not, and by many peoples standards we might of been described as a "good family," but yet I knew what was lost over this past year, and I know, only by God's grace, what He is calling us to become; a truly catholic family....... We are now on our way again. Thank you God.

I am sure that we will continue to receive attacks over this next 6 to 12 months as we prepare to move to the Midwest. Please keep us in your prayers that we can be helpful with the promotion of family values and to combating the culture of death.

** Update: November 2009 - After extended prayer and discernment, Liz and I have realized that God does not intend for us to move at this time, we will stay in Redding CA, at least for the next few years. We have a lot of evangelizing to do right here, and given opportunities that we cannot turn our back on. There is a Crisis of Faith and Morality Right here where we live and feel that God has us here for a purpose, at least for now!

Our final road trip - Heading Home!

2009-07-28T20:39:00.000-07:00

We pulled out of Idaho early in the morning, everyone is excited to get home......For Liz and I, we are looking forward to the comfort of our own home. For the kids....they are looking forward to seeing their friends.

So off we go....... A lot of road to cover today, about 650 miles.

What beautiful scenery.

More and more road.

Thank God for Sean!

We figured that I (Pat) drove 4000 miles this trip, Sean drove 3000 miles, and Liz drove 1000 miles.

It is starting to look a lot like home.

I see Mount Lassen, we are getting close.

On the home stretch

Liz and I were just reflecting on the trip. There were some very remarkable things that had happened by spending a whole month together as a family and exploring, praying, and playing together. The graces that we received we so abundant we a very thankful.

We received over and over from so many different people, clear and direct confirmations on some very big life decisions.

I will disclose more after a few days, but for now, We will rest. I am back to work in the morning. Once again God, we thank you for the clear direction and message that you gave to us over this past month. We will follow you.......

Montana to Idaho

2009-07-27T21:39:00.000-07:00

We stayed at Liz's Childhood Best Friend's (Toni) house last night.

Sean relaxing

Liz and Toni cooking something special for breakfast (I think I am scared).

What is it?

Biscuits and gravy..... But what kind of gravy is that?

Should she try it or not

Chocolate gravy

Go for it Sean!

It really was Delicious.

Then we took off...... On the road again!

We hit a huge thunder storm at the rest stop.

Go Mackenzie you can make it!

I just love driving through Montana and all the rivers that run aside the roads.

It makes me want to break out the fishing pole.

It was a long day of travel, 3 hours to Bozeman to visit Liz's cousin Joe and his family for lunch and then we drove to Idaho until 9pm.

Arriving in Idaho

Our final night of the pilgrimage - we decided to stay at a hotel.

Where is the phone!

We are starving, lets order some food quick.

I heard a knock, get the door...... the food is here.

Did we over order?

pajamas, hot food, and a comfortable bed.....

That was a whole pizza 2 minutes ago!

Hey - who ate all the hot wings!

What kind of dessert do you eat in Idaho.

Visiting Family in Montana

2009-07-27T06:51:00.000-07:00

Traveling through the Badlands of western North Dakota

What a pretty drive.... Rough Country

Mackenzie...My little farm girl

We arrived in Billings at Liz's cousin's (Jim) house

They have a beautiful home outside the city

Jim recently opened a shooting range and took us on a tour.

Their TV commercial

Here are targets for bow shooting

There were deer everywhere

The rifle range

The office

Beautiful sunset over the range

Liz with her best friend Toni and Jim's wife Stephanie.

Birthday celebration

Girl picture

Real Men!

Go Girls

The gang

The beauty of Montana

The Old Catholic Country Church

2009-07-27T06:41:00.000-07:00

We visited Saint Elizabeth Church

Established 1897

I love the old churches

The Holy Altar

Every Church we visit we have a tradition to light a candle and say a prayer for a special person, here is Sean leading the way.

The stained glass windows were beautiful.

This was and is a very special church.

Visiting the Farm

2009-07-27T06:27:00.000-07:00

Why would a boy want the climb a silo - because it is there!

Don't look down.....

Check out Sean

The girls chatting.

The milking barn

Sean just loves kids and they love him, he will be a great dad.

Taking a hike.

I just love the farm land.

The Enchanted Highway

2009-07-27T06:03:00.000-07:00

The Beginning of the enchanted highway through western North Dakota. These are the largest Iron Sculptures in the world - they are made with farm materials.

The sculptures are on the side of the highway, some 3 miles apart, some further.

Deer jumping

Grasshopper

Fishing

Great detail

Birds

The kids were amazed

President Roosevelt

Farmers

The size was enormous

The "Ralph"

2009-07-27T05:44:00.000-07:00

The Ralph Engelstad Arena. He donated 104 million dollars to build a Hockey Arena at the University of North Dakota.

You would not believe the beauty.

Everywhere you look is great detail

This was the second largest donation every made to a university and it was to be spent all on a Hockey arena, nothing else.

Granite and hard wood everywhere

Hockey!

Every Seat is Leather and has Hardwood arm rests and a cup holder

The tour

The private suite of Ralph Engelstad

Sean

We could get use to this

The suite

The private suite view

At the "Betty"

2009-07-27T05:37:00.000-07:00

We then went to the "Betty"

A beautiful Gym for College basketball and Volleyball

The tour group

Hall of fame

Go North Dakota

Jeff and the kids trained behind the tour group to sneak in a few shots on the college court.

Red Pepper

2009-07-27T05:28:00.000-07:00

My cousin Jeff took us the the University hot spot for lunch....The Red Pepper

Cheese Tostadas

Explaining that these people are from California and yes they don't understand the food.

The famous grinder.... They ship these all over the country to alumni who just want a taste of their past and of the Red Pepper.

Liz is saying - this is good!

The whole town had a happy feeling to it.

The largest Bra in the world

2009-07-27T05:24:00.000-07:00

What trip would be complete without seeing the larges bra in the world.

It was created by an Art student at the University as a political statement

"Support for the Arts in going down the drain."

Family and Fun

2009-07-27T05:11:00.000-07:00

We all gathered for a meal at my Aunt Carina's House.

They are use the large gatherings, My aunt had 11 kids.

My cousin Jeff and Aunt Carina serving Spam Burgers, yes SPAM!

They really were good!

My cousin Mary Ann

After dinner everyone sits out front and visits

The yard toss tournament

I'm telling Sean, "we gotta make one of these."

On the road again

2009-07-27T04:48:00.000-07:00

There wasn't any Dutch brothers Coffee, but we were told that the local favorite is Caribou Coffee.
We ordered a cup to fuel our day.

Sean Got a fancy one

Mac also

And then we arrived in Winsted, a small town where Sean and mac had some friends that they met on a Guatemala mission trip.

A small farm town

Lots of corn

Beautiful Catholic community

We shared a meal on a great day

A nice park in the middle of the town

Mac with friends

Swimming anyone?

I enjoyed the slow and family oriented community

The good bye photo

Here is a funnel cloud, the beginnings of a tornado.

Out of clean clothes, we stopped to wash them...... We were getting the look from Mom, watch the video below to see why.

Kids will be kids

Fun

Spending time with Katie (and family / friends) in Minnesota

2009-07-26T22:34:00.000-07:00

We met Katie in Guatemala last summer and had the chance to visit with her and her family in Minnesota. Many from her mission trip group were able to come over for the reunion party.

Sean and Katie playing yard toss.

Katie's sisters were great at this game.

Check this out
We were spoiled by the hospitality of Katie's parents.

Katie's dad cooking away.

Remembering Guatemala

Friendships made in Guatemala are so very special.

Katie's house

Guitar hero championships

Our Lady of Guadelupe Shrine - La Cross Wisconsin

2009-07-26T21:38:00.000-07:00

Entrance to the Shrine

The walkway to the shrine.

Beautiful Statue

The votive chapel.

Mary

Nature

The reception lobby

Check out this adventure

Our hike down to the secrete cave.

Looks a lot like Lourdes

Inside the votive chapel

Can to guess this person?

Here is a closer look.

Saint Joseph the worker with Jesus

Sean in front of the Shrine

Beautiful

Inside of the Shrine

Painting and relic in the Shrine

Painting in the shrine

Painting

Beautiful

Altar

Painting

Beautiful Artwork

Outside the Shrine

An exterior view

Grotto

What a great day

There was a beautiful 2 1/2 mile walk with the stations of the cross and the rosary.

OK - time to hit the road.

Sean

Wisconsin Dells

2009-07-26T21:33:00.000-07:00

We wanted to see the Wisconsin Dells but we never found the dells. What we did find was all the attractions.
What a great place for the kids.

This was a quick distraction, but a fun one.

Chicago

2009-07-20T18:26:00.000-07:00

Chicago

The skyline

Looking for a place to eat lunch.

We found it!

The famous Giordano's, home of the most delicious stuffed Chicago Pizza.

Waiting for a table

Enjoying a Beer.

Lets order!

An inside view

One of a kind!

Liz's piece

Sean's piece

Mackenzie's piece

Dad's piece

You would not believe how delicious this pizza is......

After lunch we took off for a walk.

We made it to Navy Pier

Trolley car

Walking the city streets

Mackenzie on the shore of Lake Michigan

Great museums

Soldier Field

Family - Family - Family

2009-07-20T17:38:00.000-07:00

Almost to Detroit Michigan......... Do you think Michigan has something to do with cars?

We drove by "8 Mile Road," doesn't mean anything to me, but I am told it is famous and has something to do with Eminem, go figure!

Here we are with my Dad's brother "Buster." The last remaining brother of the 6 boys. My dad went to heaven 15 years ago and looking at Buster brings back so many memories, looking at his eyes was just like looking at my Dad's. I sure miss my Dad! He was the greatest man I even knew. I love you Dad.

Here is my Cousin Joan with her Dad. Boy does she love her dad, all his girls sure love him.

Two handsome men....... Must be in the genes, sorry girls, we are taken!

Time for a swim

Don't you just love families?

Lets have a backyard bonfire.

A little rain can't hurt ya!

What, did you say it is storming, nah, just helping stoke the fire.

Hurry Mackenzie, get under the umbrella, you might float away......

Just a sprinkle, it will blow over!

My other cousin, Kelly just bought a house a year ago down the street.

She took us to her house, it is beautiful.

The kids playing in the basement.

Basements are VERY COOL for California kids since we don't have them.

Sean

Mackenzie playing video games

Joan has the most beautiful garden

The colors were so remarkable.

Front yard

Back yard

The view from the front porch

Cedar Point - Roller Coaster Park

2009-07-20T17:13:00.000-07:00

One of the Best Roller Coaster parks in the World.

Excited to enter the park.

OK - enough pictures, lets hit the rides.

This park has more roller coasters that you can believe.

Nothing in California can compare.

Liz just saw the first coaster that we were going to ride. It is rated in the top ten in the world. Check out the video and see why!

Here are three rides.

The last ride, "Top Thrill Dragster" I rode 4 years ago and passed on this year, but you will see Sean and Mackenzie be blasted off at the speed of 120 miles per hour in less than 4 seconds and then propelled straight up into the sky almost out of sight.

The "G-Force" on the ride is amazing.

The fastest ride I ever rode.

Off for more rides.

One of Mackenzie's favorite rides.

The park is on the shore of lake Erie.

Sean and Mackenzie getting ready to free fall.

Check this out.....can you say Stomach Butterflies

The extreme sports show.

Time to leave the park, masters of the coasters, now off the Michigan.

Farmers Market - Amish Country

2009-07-20T16:56:00.000-07:00

On our travels through Ohio we stopped at a Farmers Market to get some fresh food.

You would not believe the produce from these farmers.

It was so much fun visiting with the local farmers. I met a young man who farms a dairy farm with his brother. They have 20 cows that they milk and then make cheese. I bought some cheese from him and am eating it right now..........It is great.

They are the 7th generation working the dairy farm. What great history, what a great story.

I really enjoyed listening to him describe his life, his routine, and the simplicity of his life.

We were in the middle of Amish country and bought the best
Pies, Jams, and sweet rolls from them.

Another Amish family

Mount Vernon - Our Friend "John's house"

2009-07-20T16:38:00.000-07:00

We arrived in the small rural town of Mount Vernon to visit

our Spiritual Director's (Father Paul) Brother - John.

Here we are pulling up in our "Rig" to his beautiful Country / Mountain home.

It was so peaceful being surrounded by the woods.

After so much driving, we decided to go for a hike.

I just loved walking through the woods.

There was something very spiritual about walking in the woods and listening to God's creations all around us.

The deer were near by and I enjoyed watching them.

The view from the front yard.

Not a weed in the garden.

Impressive

Corn anyone!

Sean - A farmer at heart.

Catholic Familyland - July 14, 2009

2009-07-14T18:09:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful day in Ohio, not too hot, clear skies, and NO humidity.

We started the day off with Mass.

I feel very blessed and humbled that these wonderful and spiritual people allow me to participate in their Holy Mass each morning.

And as soon as Mass was over, quickly the kids started the sports games.

Sean has so much fun playing sports each day.

I had time to visit with my beautiful wife.

Sitting under a shade tree...... Enjoying the calm of the day.

Everyone enjoying the wonderful weather, visiting with newly met friends, sharing the faith, and absorbing the catholic culture that we were immersed in.

Later on in the evening we had square dancing.

Fun

Catholic Familyland - Monday

2009-07-14T03:08:00.000-07:00

We started the day with the Holy Mass.

Here I am with Deacon Randy.

He is one of the only 6 Deacons in the diocese.

What a special and holy man he is.......

Deacon Randy, Father Kevin, Deacon Pat

Check out all the Altar Boys

After Mass all the kids break up into groups and spend some time together

learning and sharing the faith.

There goes one group.

The little ones love the play gym.

While the kids were gone we heard a few messages

And a wonderful talk about Catholic Hope.

Mackenzie and Liz getting ready to ride the horses.

Doesn't this picture just say "I was meant to live in Ohio."

I think I forgot something!

The Kearns girls (Mac and Mom)

Here they go!

I wonder what horse I will Get?

Do you think they are wondering what rider they will get, I think one looked at me and said "No- Not the big fat guy!"

safety first

Go Mackenzie

Check out the trail ride

Sean and I joined the softball tournament

Sean at shortstop

Sean could sure hit the ball

It was so much fun

The crowd

Dad's team ended up in second place

In the evening we had a bonfire and made smores.

Everyone had a great time.

The smallest kids had the longest sticks.

M y beautiful wife

Beautiful children

My little friend Liam

All the Moms leading a decade of the rosary

All the teenagers leading a decade of the rosary

Great people!

Ohio - Catholic Familyland Day 2 (Sunday)

2009-07-12T21:42:00.000-07:00

Mackenzie and I ventured off to the water slides.

You would not believe how fast they are.

Check this out!

Sean jumped in on a volleyball game.

Sean played 6 hours of volleyball with new catholic friends from all over the U.S.A.

Catholic Familyland

The day began with Mass with Cardinal Arinze

Benediction with the Cardinal

Kneeling next to holiness as Jesus watches.

At the Cardinal's side during the Holy Mass

I can't put into words the special feeling it was serving with this holy man.

Deacon Randy, Cardinal Arinze, Deacon Pat

Cardinal Arinze and humble me.

Catholic Familyland - Day One

2009-07-12T21:31:00.000-07:00

We arrived early Saturday morning to check in at Catholic Familyland.

The y are expecting 800 people for this week of camping, fun, and sharing the faith.

Check out the video

It didn't take long for the sports to start.

My beautiful daughter.

Mama's "C's" snack shack - we love the food.

Sean serving at Mass.

Sean and Cardinal Arinze

Cardinal Arinze, multiple priests, Deacon Randy and myself .

What an honor to serve the Cardinal

Sean

Ohio

2009-07-12T21:24:00.000-07:00

We had a beautiful day of driving weather.

We arrived in Steubenville Ohio and made it to Mass as Saint Peters.

We met up with Katie Thomas, a new friend of ours who will be entering religious life this summer.

She is a very special person, please pray for her.

Traveling through Kentucky

2009-07-12T21:17:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful state.

Liz catching up on so sleep.

Like mother like son, and ditto for daughter.

We passed by Abraham Lincoln's childhood Home.

This is was what the inside of the truck looked like most of the time.

Abbey of Gethsemani - Kentucky

2009-07-12T15:28:00.000-07:00

We arrived at the monastery.

Check out the video

What a peaceful and holy place.

Outside the main church.

The graves of the monks.

Heading into Church.

As we entered the Church, the monks were just finishing their prayers.

It was so beautiful to hear them chant and sing.

We visited to chapel.

The small chapel.

Beautiful art throughout the monastery, simple, yet holy.

Historical roadside marker.

Time to hit the road once again.

A view of the hillside.

I climbed up the hill to see what was at the top.

What a joyful and holy visit to the monastery.

Makers Mark - Bourbon Whiskey

2009-07-10T18:22:00.000-07:00

I think we all know that Kentucky is famous for it's whiskey, but My favorite Bourbon is made right here as well.

Check out the Video

You can't mistake the makers mark bottles - hand dipped in wax.

Quite the process

I was made to be a production line supervisor.

We were able to see how it is made.

Famous

This is the distillers

Each barrel is aged 4 - 7 years

Hand rotated

My favorite part - the end of the tour where we tasted the product. All Bourbons are whiskeys, but not all whiskeys are bourbons

Kentucky - Southern Cook'n

2009-07-10T18:09:00.000-07:00

Along the trip we have been eating at places that would seem to have "Local" food.

We visited this place in Kentucky in search of delicious food.

Well - what do you think?

Liz ordered the Country ham.

Did you know there is a big difference between "Country Ham" and "City Ham."

Country ham is cured with salt, and city ham is cured with sugar. Kentucky is famous for their ham.

I had the fried chicken. it was the most delicious chicken I have ever eaten.

The kids both had the country fried steak.

Kentucky - Camping

2009-07-10T17:46:00.000-07:00

We planned for another family day of camping in Kentucky.

We just arrived at the Louisville KOA.

Sean and just put up the tent.

They had a great pool to swim in.

The kids having a great time on a hot day.

My beautiful children.

We couldn't of had a better camp site. I just love listening to the Kentucky night noises.

Liz catching up on the laundry while writing Post cards.

Sleeping in......

Don't you just love my huge bed!

Our Hotel in Nashville

2009-07-08T23:23:00.001-07:00

I never knew just how beautiful Tennessee was.

Liz found us another great hotel for almost nothing....

Pretty nice

The kids like the modern look

Mackenzie's pull-out bed.

Our Beds ...... Sean's turn to get the other bed tonight!

Dinner in Nashville Tennessee

2009-07-08T22:58:00.000-07:00

Across the street from the "Grand Ol Opre" was this great Restaurant so we ventured in.

Sean Enjoyed the live music.

I had always heard that Nashville was full of great country singers.

Mackenzie liked her music so much she bought her CD.

I had the best Catfish in the world!!!!

Mackenzie's Dinner

These two guys were really good, they could sing anything

Check these guys out......

I had to show Sean how to truly shoot a game of pool.

My two great kids.

Lunch in Alabama

2009-07-08T22:46:00.000-07:00

So far on this trip we vowed to not eat any "Fast Food." We have either shopped at super markets or visited local restaurants. Here is a lunch stop in Alabama. We had the best food, don't let the sign fool ya....it was southern cooking at its best.

Here is Sean eating Southern Greens and lovin it!

For the first time I tried real Southern Sweet Tea.

I am Hooked!

Hanceville Alabama - The Shrine of the Most Holy Sacrament

2009-07-08T21:51:00.000-07:00

After driving through beautiful country, we began to arrive at our destination, the shrine.

Almost there.......

We arrived

The sign at the gate.

Here is what we saw as we passed through the gate.

And a castle?

Check out the Video of the Shrine

I know that guy.

We made it, exhausted after a 1 mile trip....... We stayed 1 mile from the Shrine.

My great kids.

The sign on the castle.

I want these doors on my house.

A look in the castle.

Do you recognize these guys?

Lets have lunch.

Do you know the Nun in the painting?

We listened to a great spiritual talk from this priest....... What a great way to start the day.

What a holy priest. I think I can see 3 Halos, well maybe only 2.

Great picture

I was told that they had an exact replica of Lourdes.

What do you think?

Sean said the water tastes great.

My wife - The greatest lady I know.

To know her is to love her.

There are only 2 types of people in the world,

people who love Liz, and people who haven't met her yet.

Hey, who is that cool Guy, he must be a Roman Catholic Deacon!

My very special daughter who doesn't realize yet just how special and beautiful she really is.

The grounds were so beautiful everywhere you looked.

Here is a presentation of the nativity.

The picture doesn't capture the beauty.

Saint Francis outside of the main church.

EWTN Pilgrimage Retreat House

2009-07-08T21:44:00.000-07:00

Liz found us a great retreat house 1 mile from

The Shrine of the Most Holy Sacrament (Mother Angelica's Place)

It was a very nice home. We had a portion of the bottom floor that had been converted into a studio apartment. It was very large, comfortable and perfect for our trip.

Our retreat house.

EWTN - Irondale, Alabama

2009-07-08T21:24:00.000-07:00

We arrived at the EWTN Studios for the Tuesday night live show -

Threshold of hope with Father Pacwa.

On our way to the filming studio, we stopped by the chapel where the daily EWTN Mass if filmed.

Here is Liz and Mackenzie catching a quick visit and prayer with Jesus.

In the filming studio.

Waiting for the doors to open onto the set.

Here is the set for the filming of the show. it was great to see how the camera crew worked and how TV is filmed. The man in the photo is Father Pacwa.

After the show Father visited with everyone. He is a very friendly man.

Our family with Father Pacwa after the show.

Here is Liz with her new friend, a SOLT Father from Belize City.

He invited us to join him as missionaries...... Hummmmm

Check out the video

Heading to Birmingham Alabama - EWTN and Mother Angelica's

2009-07-07T04:48:00.000-07:00

We will be driving to the Shrine of the Most Holy Sacrament today (Mother Angelica's) in Alabama.

The Shrine

We have tickets for the "Threshold of Hope" show tonight with Father Mitch Pacwa. If you want to watch the show and you might get a glimpse of us.

We will also be at the Taped EWTN Mass tomorrow morning that is played throughout the day all over the world. Watch for us, I will do a cartwheel in the communion line (Just Kidding).

Mackenzie's smilebox

2009-07-06T20:30:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Mackenzie's smilebox

2009-07-06T20:27:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Mackenzie's smilebox

2009-07-06T20:20:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Cafe Du Monde - New Orleans

2009-07-06T20:02:00.000-07:00

We were told from our Friend John that we couldn't visit the French Quarter without tasting a "Beignet" at Cafe Du Monde.

Cafe Du Monde

We found the restaurant and ordered a few.

They are hot French donuts.

They are hot and covered with sugar.

John was right...... Mackenzie gave them a thumbs up!

Liz stated that we are going back in the morning for more.

Sean loved them as well..... Thanks John for the tip!

New Orleans

2009-07-06T19:13:00.000-07:00

Liz asked me why in the world did I want to see New Orleans?

As I walked through the streets I began to ask myself the same question.

I guess I didn't realize what it really was.

I imagined hearing music and seeing a piece of history.

What we saw was a dirty portion of the city with a sense of evil, sin, and godlessness.......

Maybe it was the time of day that we traveled through the streets, it was 5:00 pm and maybe the French Quarter will present differently tomorrow morning.....

It was the first time on our trip that we felt unsafe......

These pictures show the streets and the buildings, but cannot show the ambiance. It is not for children or families for sure...... Everywhere we turned there were drunks, and inappropriate behavior.

We found the church but it was closed. We will return in the morning for Mass at 7:30 am

The sign posted on the church.

Taking a break in the square.

With our first negative experience on the trip we decided to call it a night and go to the hotel. We found a great deal at the Iberville Suites.

The hotel is much fancier than we would usually stay at but the price was equal to a much lesser hotel.

Fancy

Doesn't every one's house look like this? NOT!

The family heading to our room.

The kids enjoying the TV.

Since we don't own one, they always love the chance to catch a show when away from home...... It didn't take long to see why we don't own a TV...... It has even gotten worse over the last 5 + years that we have not had one.

Do people really understand what they have become desensitized from.......

Louisiana Swap Tour

2009-07-06T18:47:00.000-07:00

I had always wanted to see the swamps of the south and for the kids to see them as well. so we called a local man, Bryan Champagne who gave us a tour beyond my expectations.

We loaded up in his boat and off we went.

We shared the boat with a couple from Missouri and a family from Germany.

After a few minutes we were deep in the Bayou.

Sean and I shared the front of the boat.

We traveled in depths as shallow as 10 inches.

Watch the video at the end on the post and see how we caught this gator.

Did Sean catch one Too?

Having FUN!

The weather was great.

You would not believe all the wildlife we saw and just how beautiful it was.

The trees were amazing.

Amazing

Mackenzie with a swamp flower.

Louisiana Swamp Tour from Deacon Pat Kearns on Vimeo.

Louisiana Cajun Lunch With Father Chris

2009-07-06T18:13:00.000-07:00

Liz met Father Chris through a mutual Facebook friend and we were able to connect with him for lunch today.

Here is Sean and Mackenzie with Father Chris. We asked him where could we get a great Cajun meal and he took us the "Don's Seafood Restaurant."

It wasn't long and we were served our meal.

Father had the Bisque.

Sean had Catfish and Shrimp.

Liz and I split a sampler of: Catfish, Shrimp, Stuffed Crab, Stuffed Crawfish heads, and something else...... I also had a cup of Bisque and a local micro beer.

And Mackenzie went way out on a limb and ordered a Cheeseburger.

The food was great as well as the conversation and the visit.

Thanks for the hospitality Father.....

Sean, did you get enough to eat?

Texas to Louisiana

2009-07-05T19:34:00.000-07:00

Up Early again, we attended 8am Mass, had breakfast at "Big Jim's" Restaurant, changed clothes and were off again heading toward LOUISIANA.

Here is Mackenzie making a smile box on the computer.

Here is Sean listening to Mackenzie's IPOD and playing a game.

Here is my beautiful wife sleeping...... Maybe praying!

It wasn't long and we were in Houston.

Sean drove us through the busy city and did a great job.

He just got his permit in June and is racking up the supervised practise hours.

Check out the trip to the Gulf of Mexico for a quick swim!

We arrived in Louisiana.

It was really hot today so we changed our reservation from a tent site to a sleeping (air conditioned) cabin....... Everyone thought it was a good choice..... Me Too!

Here is Mackenzie organizing her Tub..... We did all our laundry at the campground while the kids swam at the pool and made new friends.

Here is our cabin at the Louisiana KOA. It is right on the lake with a beautiful view.

What a great Louisiana evening.... Sean is out fishing in the lake right now.

Our view from the porch.....

Mackenzie's smilebox

2009-07-05T05:02:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Evagelizing Through Football

2009-07-05T04:05:00.001-07:00

Sean and I began to throw the ball around at the campground.

Before we knew it, we had instant friends.

It was so much fun

Young and old.

Boys will be boys

Friendships can be made so easily with just a little effort. Isn't that so true in life.

Ready GO!

Sean's fan club

Ready catch

San Antonio

2009-07-05T03:48:00.000-07:00

Our "Kamping Kabin" at San Antonio KOA

This is a two room simple cabin. It has a queen bed in the second room and 2 sets of bunk beds in the first. Can you see my blog station?

Two girls relaxing

The trip so far has been action packed and I think I have already worn out the family.

Not really, but yes for today. It is 11:30 pm and everyone is asleep in the small air-conditioned cabin.

I enjoy the quiet time, a time to ponder my thoughts and the events of the day, especially in relationship to what God is trying to teach me.

I can’t help but feel that God wants me to know that I am truly blessed with the wonderful wife and especially the beautiful children that He has given to me to raise for him.

We have already met so many nice people, and evangelized others with really little effort.

As we drive through towns and stop for gas and food, people often notice the sign on out truck and it sparks conversations. I can see god working in the little and small encounters that might not be just so small…….

Tomorrow is Sunday and we will begin the day with Mass and then take off for Louisiana.
Thank you God for my life, my faith, and your love! I hope to be worthy to be your instrument in spite of my failings and weaknesses.

New Mexico to Texas

2009-07-04T19:23:00.000-07:00

Here was our tent site at the KOA campground in Carlsbad New Mexico.

We woke up at 5:00 a.m. and packed up our gear.

We have the chore of setting up and breaking down camp down, the boys have their duties and the girls have theirs. We can do now do both in about 20 - 30 minutes.

It wasn't long and we were back on the road for a 6 1/2 hour drive.

We made better time than planned since the speed limit was 80 mph.

It wasn't long and we were in Texas.

We worked up an appetite and made a pit stop at our Friend's (Carson Weber) Parents who own this Gas Stop / Cafe.

His parents met us there and treated us to lunch.

Sean, Mackenzie, and Liz ate their Famous Bacon / Avocado Cheeseburger.

It was so good!

I on the other hand had something different.

I am trying to eat "local" food everywhere we go.

Carson has been telling me for some time that his parent's restaurant has the most delicious Breakfast Tacos you had ever tasted, so I had to try them.

Carson, you are right, they were great. I ordered three different kinds, you only see two here, I had already eaten the first.

After we ate, we swung by Carson's parent's home and guess what part of the visit Sean enjoyed the most?

Then we arrived at the Guadalupe River for the tubing trip.

We got our tubes and off we went.

It was over 100 degrees outside but it felt great on the river.

I think many other Texans had the same idea on July 4th.

It was a relaxing 2 hour trip.

Here is Mackenzie and Liz

I think Sean is going to pass me up soon!

Having fun and loving every minute of it......

Area 51 (Roswell New Mexico)

2009-07-03T20:03:00.000-07:00

We traveled through Roswell New Mexico where the story

about Aliens landing continues to be spread.

They city embraces the legends as evident by their street lights.

I have to tell you about the weird thing that happened in this peculiar city. We have been using our truck GPS system without flaw during this trip, however, it wasn’t until we traveled through Roswell that it began rearranging our trip and taking us way off course and lead us out in the country….. WEIRD

We corrected the problem after about 30 miles of getting semi-lost and it hasn’t acted up since…… WEIRD

Saint Francis Basilica

2009-07-03T19:37:00.000-07:00

We were able to visit this beautiful Basilica.

This Basilica was just around the corner from the Loretto Chapel.

Beautiful statues in front of the basilica.

The Altar

Two Monks admiring the Altar

Liz praying a special prayer, she is probably asking for the granting of humility for her husband.....?

Another View

Saint Francis in front of the Basilica

My hero

Loretto Chapel - Santa Fe, New Mexico

2009-07-03T19:15:00.000-07:00

Ever since I heard about the miracle at the Loretto Chapel in New Mexico

I had always wanted to see it.

Here is the beautiful Chapel where the miracle happened.

When the building was almost finished someone noticed that while the chapel was beautiful, as was the choir loft, there was no way to get from one to other.

The sisters summonded carpenter after carpenter who told them that a 21 foot staircase in such a small space could simply not be built.

Why not tear down the choir loft and begin again, both a daunting and heartbreaking task.

The sisters began to pray to Saint Joseph .

In answer a grey haired man with a donkey and tool chest came to the convent and asked if he might have a try at building what would be known as the Miraculous Staircase.

When the work was complete the man simply disappeared as suddenly as he appeared and couldn’t be found to accept any pay for the job.

Nor was there any charges for lumber at the local lumber yard.

The Loretto Chapel

There is no center support. To this day engineers do not understand how it supports weight.......

Food, Food, Food

2009-07-03T19:01:00.000-07:00

Rosa's Cantina

We found the absolutely best Mexican food in all the world.

Sean and I had the same, the chili was the best we had ever tasted.........

This was Mackenzie's Burrito.

Here is Liz's Lunch, Delicious!

day 3 Arizona to New Mexico

2009-07-03T18:41:00.000-07:00

I couldn't believe how huge the canyon was.

We had a great day at the Grand Canyon

We were able to see the park while riding our bikes.

Sean and I ventured off and climbed some trails and saw spectacular views.

FUN!

My great family ....... My personal blessing!

Good Morning From Arizona

2009-07-02T05:15:00.000-07:00

Its 5 am and everyone is still asleep, almost time to wake them up. We are off the see the Grand Canyon this morning and then we will drive to Santa Fe New Mexico. It rained last night and looks overcast today.

Lets pray for sun, we were hoping to bike ride at the Grand Canyon this morning.

OK, Time for coffee......

I'll check back with you tonight.

God's peace,

Deacon Pat

Day 2 Nevada to Arizona

2009-07-01T21:28:00.000-07:00

We arrived in Arizona - A long day of travel.....

The country was mostly high desert and hot......

We drove by Death Valley, good thing for auto air conditioners.

Everyone out of the truck, time to stretch!

My great family

Grab the binoculars, wildlife everywhere......

See I told you I say an Alligator!

See, He is vicious!

My little desert friend

Hoover Dam was a great experience.

It sure is Huge.

Check out the video

Our evening ended with a beautiful sunset followed by a thunder storm.

Day 1 Redding to Nevada

2009-07-01T21:25:00.000-07:00

It was so nice to have Sean help with the driving.

The girls could get comfortable in the back seat and we all took turns driving.

Before you knew it, we were in Nevada.

We stayed at Circus Circus the first night. We had a great room, watched a circus act, had a huge Buffet Dinner, played a few kid games and went to bed. Sean and I got up at 5:30 a.m. and worked out in the gym. And guess what....we only paid $47 for the room.

We are off.........

2009-07-01T21:18:00.000-07:00

The truck is loaded and off we go....

Space Is Everything

2009-06-27T20:34:00.000-07:00

Sean and Mackenzie had a great idea to build a little table to play games on in the back seat during the trip. So early this morning the wood pile was once again visited and this was the creation.

It fits perfectly in the back seat..... great job guys.

Sean was happy to announce..... "Dad, it cost nothing to build!"

Time to Prepare the "Truck"

2009-06-14T15:02:00.000-07:00

We began to think about the trip and asked ourselves "where are we going to put all of our stuff?"

Half of the time we will be camping, and the other time we will either be in Hotels or staying with Family.

Yes, it would be easy to throw the gear in the back of the truck, but what about when we leave the truck.

Sean and Dad stated "We will build a secure storage container" and off they went...... Tools came flying out from everywhere, recycled wood from projects of old was located, unused hardware confiscated, and the neighbor's kids even showed up.

Saws were cutting, screws being screwed, nails being pounded.

I think they even thought they knew what they were doing......

Hey, this is starting to look pretty good, but don't tell the guys that..... You know "big heads."

"Go to town" Dad.......

Break Time.... Did someone say "Guinness?"

Finished!

Great Storage area.

Final performance check by Sean.

Two men proud of their work.

Mission accomplished, 4 hours later and only $32 out of pocket expense.

Looking Good.