Back from the Abbey

I spent Monday through Friday this last week at St. Gregory's Abbey. The idea was to have a retreat to renew my relationship with God, and maybe work through some of the stuff that's always sitting around needing to be worked through. My father has gone to this abbey for a week of retreat nearly every year for some time, and I thought I would try it myself. It turns out to be quite a nice place out in the country. There are seven monks, many little services every day, and lots of Psalms and chanting. I haven't spent much time reading Psalms— not usually my favorite— and it was neat to be immersed in them for a while. There's also a bit of wooded land, and a small lake with a couple of rowboats. I learned that before using a rowboat, its drain needs to be plugged. I didn't know they had drains that were left unplugged, but I suppose it would be a good measure against rainwater. Anyway, sitting out in the middle of the lake in a boat watching the reflection of trees in rippling water was pretty relaxing.

I took a few pictures, and I could post a couple if anyone is interested.