The Palouse...over one hundred and sixty miles of rolling hills and wheat fields.
At sixty miles an hour we drove on a two lane winding highway that pierces this somewhat ominous landscape. The colors began to blend into each other and create patterns...abstracted waves of light and hues that ranged from many shades of yellow to burnt sienna as well as touches of hunter green.
At sixty miles an hour we drove on a two lane winding highway that pierces this somewhat ominous landscape. The colors began to blend into each other and create patterns...abstracted waves of light and hues that ranged from many shades of yellow to burnt sienna as well as touches of hunter green.
The overall feeling was a combination of freedom balanced with a deep-seated fear as one may feel looking out over the never ending ocean with no land in sight. The idea of such a great expanse where what appears to be real may also be an optical Illusion. These creamy wheat mountains moved in a rhythm as the strong gusts of wind howled through the windows and played percussion as it beat at the sides of the SUV as we drove deeper into the canyons.
Arriving in Uniontown, Washington, was a town small enough to cover the commercial district and businesses in less than 3 blocks. It was somewhat ghostly yet charming and sweet as we scrambled out of the vehicle in search of the closest restroom after a long drive. Bakery - closed. Bank - closed. City Hall - open!! Ann Marie, the only soul in sight, was kind enough to let us use the facilities. Just she and her big black Labrador guarded the small building where the entire town’s history resided was jubilant and happy to tell us about the history.
I mentioned that I was from NYC and was amazed by the drive through The Palouse. She paused and then came closer and said, “Were you scared?".
I replied, "No, I felt the feeling of freedom.".
I thought about her question for the next several days as many new deeper meanings and revelations would reveal themselves.
Arriving in Uniontown, Washington, was a town small enough to cover the commercial district and businesses in less than 3 blocks. It was somewhat ghostly yet charming and sweet as we scrambled out of the vehicle in search of the closest restroom after a long drive. Bakery - closed. Bank - closed. City Hall - open!! Ann Marie, the only soul in sight, was kind enough to let us use the facilities. Just she and her big black Labrador guarded the small building where the entire town’s history resided was jubilant and happy to tell us about the history.
I mentioned that I was from NYC and was amazed by the drive through The Palouse. She paused and then came closer and said, “Were you scared?".
I replied, "No, I felt the feeling of freedom.".
I thought about her question for the next several days as many new deeper meanings and revelations would reveal themselves.
Were you scared? To myself I thought, yes, I was petrified. But it was momentary and a prelude to what this whole trip was leading to.
We arrived at the county fair where Linda was hired to judge the artwork. Of course they searched for Linda; here was a woman who had the experience of life and the talent that God grants all of us in different ways. In her case she was given the ability of sight. Deep insight, which comes with a great deal of sensitivity.
As the ladies helped with recording and placing the ribbons on the artwork, it seemed to be a well-choreographed dance around her in a movement of celebration. There were no questions of her authority or knowledge - these strangers...artists...who many times are strangers in a world filled with cynics, found a subtle happiness with each other. There was a winner; a sweet woman who's watercolor Linda judged based on technique.
The grand prize purple ribbon went to Jackie Zumalt. With so many lovely paintings, how can you judge? But my award would have went to the children. Seriously - the children's art in grade school were my favorites. By the way, my theater teacher who changed my life always said if you want to be a great artist you must look through the eyes of a child. A very long day of intense spirits and heavy thought led us to Rodonna's, a family owned restaurant in Cottonwood.
We sat there exhausted - what a day. KC, our waiter, came to the table and boy, what a pleasure! He was filled with light - smart and funny with an intelligent wit that captivated both of us. After having a look at the very diverse menu which was mainly cooked by the owner and chef Rod Quick, he
came to greet us as well. He was also filled with energy as he told us about the history of the restaurant and his experience as a chef.
Keep an eye out for a feature on Rodonna's Country Haus Restaurant and Village Motel.
After a late lunch we were headed to our last stop of the day.
The Monastery of St Gertrude
We arrived at the county fair where Linda was hired to judge the artwork. Of course they searched for Linda; here was a woman who had the experience of life and the talent that God grants all of us in different ways. In her case she was given the ability of sight. Deep insight, which comes with a great deal of sensitivity.
As the ladies helped with recording and placing the ribbons on the artwork, it seemed to be a well-choreographed dance around her in a movement of celebration. There were no questions of her authority or knowledge - these strangers...artists...who many times are strangers in a world filled with cynics, found a subtle happiness with each other. There was a winner; a sweet woman who's watercolor Linda judged based on technique.
The grand prize purple ribbon went to Jackie Zumalt. With so many lovely paintings, how can you judge? But my award would have went to the children. Seriously - the children's art in grade school were my favorites. By the way, my theater teacher who changed my life always said if you want to be a great artist you must look through the eyes of a child. A very long day of intense spirits and heavy thought led us to Rodonna's, a family owned restaurant in Cottonwood.
We sat there exhausted - what a day. KC, our waiter, came to the table and boy, what a pleasure! He was filled with light - smart and funny with an intelligent wit that captivated both of us. After having a look at the very diverse menu which was mainly cooked by the owner and chef Rod Quick, he
came to greet us as well. He was also filled with energy as he told us about the history of the restaurant and his experience as a chef.
Keep an eye out for a feature on Rodonna's Country Haus Restaurant and Village Motel.
After a late lunch we were headed to our last stop of the day.
The Monastery of St Gertrude
We met with Sister Teresa around 5:00 PM in the cafeteria of The Monastery. Gracious and soft spoken Sister Teresa greeted us as we made our way to the buffet style dinner serving area. The selection of food was impressive - chicken in a red sauce and a nice selection of salads, vegetables, and homemade bread. We each made a plate for ourselves and although we had just eaten, we had to try at least a little bite. The food was fresh and tasty. Sitting at a table together a feeling came over me of peace and a quiet inner happiness.
I was raised in a Catholic family, but I never expected that at some point in my life I would stay at a monastery with Benedictine Sisters. I asked Sister Teresa why she was not wearing what I thought would be a traditional habit and didn't all sisters wear this? She replied that mandatory wearing of habits was done away with years ago. She also mentioned that they were very uncomfortable and itchy. Dressed in khaki slacks and a comfortable blouse, Sister Teresa is a lovely woman, intelligent with a calm, gentle spirit and at her direction we arranged our itinerary for the following day. We would meet at 7:00 the next morning in the dining hall for breakfast and a tour of The Monastery.
She led us to our room which was in The Inn. Steps away from the Monastery our room in The Inn awaited. The room was actually a one bedroom apartment with comfortable couches, reclining chairs, a large screen TV, small kitchen, and dining table and chairs. We were situated on the second floor and the balcony gave us a view of the monastery forest. Large climbing hills which offered many activities - bicycling, bird watching, and amazing sunsets and sunrises. There is a bed and breakfast with four units on the first floor named after birds all of which can be found on the property. The accommodations were charming and very comfortable - three of the rooms were suites - each with a panoramic window overlooking the beautiful grounds with an outdoor seating area.
I was raised in a Catholic family, but I never expected that at some point in my life I would stay at a monastery with Benedictine Sisters. I asked Sister Teresa why she was not wearing what I thought would be a traditional habit and didn't all sisters wear this? She replied that mandatory wearing of habits was done away with years ago. She also mentioned that they were very uncomfortable and itchy. Dressed in khaki slacks and a comfortable blouse, Sister Teresa is a lovely woman, intelligent with a calm, gentle spirit and at her direction we arranged our itinerary for the following day. We would meet at 7:00 the next morning in the dining hall for breakfast and a tour of The Monastery.
She led us to our room which was in The Inn. Steps away from the Monastery our room in The Inn awaited. The room was actually a one bedroom apartment with comfortable couches, reclining chairs, a large screen TV, small kitchen, and dining table and chairs. We were situated on the second floor and the balcony gave us a view of the monastery forest. Large climbing hills which offered many activities - bicycling, bird watching, and amazing sunsets and sunrises. There is a bed and breakfast with four units on the first floor named after birds all of which can be found on the property. The accommodations were charming and very comfortable - three of the rooms were suites - each with a panoramic window overlooking the beautiful grounds with an outdoor seating area.
We met the next morning for breakfast. A peaceful silence greeted us upon entering. There were pancakes with butter and maple syrup - simple but delicious. In fact, they were so good I broke the silence exclaiming my satisfaction with the pancakes, "Mmmm these are good pancakes!". I saw a hint of a smile come over Sister Teresa's face and my friend chuckled and put her finger in front of her mouth.
I had not received the memo - breakfast was supposed to be silent.
We toured The Monastery afterwards which included full size portraits of saints and religious iconography. This was a castle. The Monastery was built of blue porphyry stone which was quarried on the property and which the nuns helped the builders transport, created two-foot-thick walls. Extremely high ceilings led to red shingle basilica roofs and gold crosses centered at the top.
We were escorted down the long hall, tranquil but slightly ominous, into the conference room where we had a brief discussion about the history of
St. Gertrude's Monastery. Then we were on to the chapel situated on the second floor. The chapel was glorious. Decorated with richly hand-carved objects and a very tall altar I was starting to feel the spirit of this very special place. All my senses were alive - the smells, the sights, the art, and the architecture all began to make sense to me.
I had not received the memo - breakfast was supposed to be silent.
We toured The Monastery afterwards which included full size portraits of saints and religious iconography. This was a castle. The Monastery was built of blue porphyry stone which was quarried on the property and which the nuns helped the builders transport, created two-foot-thick walls. Extremely high ceilings led to red shingle basilica roofs and gold crosses centered at the top.
We were escorted down the long hall, tranquil but slightly ominous, into the conference room where we had a brief discussion about the history of
St. Gertrude's Monastery. Then we were on to the chapel situated on the second floor. The chapel was glorious. Decorated with richly hand-carved objects and a very tall altar I was starting to feel the spirit of this very special place. All my senses were alive - the smells, the sights, the art, and the architecture all began to make sense to me.
I found myself reflecting about the current stage of my life. This actually began from the first minute we pulled into the driveway of The Monastery.
I was suddenly in pursuit of something much deeper within my self, my spirit, and in my soul. It seems there were many visitors who may have been seeking the same from all over the world. This was the place to do just that. Our next appointment was at The Spirit Center.
I was suddenly in pursuit of something much deeper within my self, my spirit, and in my soul. It seems there were many visitors who may have been seeking the same from all over the world. This was the place to do just that. Our next appointment was at The Spirit Center.
The Spirit Center held yet another key to my inner journey. A Sip Of Silence, Come to the Quiet, and Lenten Yoga Journey are retreats that offer introductions to a much deeper inner speculation along with individual retreats, art classes etc. at the Spirit Center at the Monastery of St. Gertrude.
Come away for a silent, individually directed retreat with optional faith sharing, creative expression, body prayer, and ritual. Relax in God's presence surrounded by natural beauty and supported by a praying community. The Sacred Art of Traditional Iconography is an art class given by a world renowned artist and iconographer FR. Damian Higgins.
I love this mission statement as The New York Optimist started 12 years ago and has a very similar mission which is to make the world smile.
Mission Statement for Spirit Center: Spirit Center draws upon the core values of the Monastery of St. Gertrude - Healing, Hospitality, Gratefulness, Simplicity, and Creative Peacemaking - in its role as a center for the exploration and promotion of the arts, spirituality, history, and social justice. We offer contemplative space for learning, renewal, and crucial conversation as we partner with others for a better world.
We met with Tim Oberholzer, the Director of The Spirit Center, who gave us a tour throughout the beautiful building which has twenty-two rooms for guests and groups on their spiritual journeys and retreats. High ceilings and windows also provide a panoramic view of the grounds.
He mentioned that this was not only place for Catholic based retreats but that The Spirit Center was open to all denominations and faiths from around the world. In one of the rooms there were a number of prayer beads on display representing a global approach to spirituality. Although I was raised Catholic, I agree with this belief at this point in my life that all religions that worship a higher power and the idea of goodness and positivity all lead to a better world. Our next and final destination on this visit was to meet with Carla Wilkins the manager of The Historical Museum at St. Gertrude.
Come away for a silent, individually directed retreat with optional faith sharing, creative expression, body prayer, and ritual. Relax in God's presence surrounded by natural beauty and supported by a praying community. The Sacred Art of Traditional Iconography is an art class given by a world renowned artist and iconographer FR. Damian Higgins.
I love this mission statement as The New York Optimist started 12 years ago and has a very similar mission which is to make the world smile.
Mission Statement for Spirit Center: Spirit Center draws upon the core values of the Monastery of St. Gertrude - Healing, Hospitality, Gratefulness, Simplicity, and Creative Peacemaking - in its role as a center for the exploration and promotion of the arts, spirituality, history, and social justice. We offer contemplative space for learning, renewal, and crucial conversation as we partner with others for a better world.
We met with Tim Oberholzer, the Director of The Spirit Center, who gave us a tour throughout the beautiful building which has twenty-two rooms for guests and groups on their spiritual journeys and retreats. High ceilings and windows also provide a panoramic view of the grounds.
He mentioned that this was not only place for Catholic based retreats but that The Spirit Center was open to all denominations and faiths from around the world. In one of the rooms there were a number of prayer beads on display representing a global approach to spirituality. Although I was raised Catholic, I agree with this belief at this point in my life that all religions that worship a higher power and the idea of goodness and positivity all lead to a better world. Our next and final destination on this visit was to meet with Carla Wilkins the manager of The Historical Museum at St. Gertrude.
Another sweet hearted spirit, Carla Wilkins gave us a full tour of The Museum and her delivery was spot on. Her tour was entertaining, educational, and inspirational. This was a lot of information of not only the history of The Monastery at St. Gertrude but the entire trip. Here is the Mission and Vision of the museum...
About
Preserving the past for the future, the museum features a rich and in-depth collection focusing on the history of North Central Idaho, specifically, mining, ranching, farming, the Chinese in Idaho, the Nez Perce, local characters, antique weapons and more.
Mission & Vision
Our mission is to preserve the rich heritage of the Monastery of St. Gertrude, Camas Prairie, Snake River, Salmon River and surrounding areas.
I would like to thank Sister Teresa, Carla, and Tim for an experience that is leading me through another major spiritual reflective stage in my life.
--------
To add to this mystical odyssey we decided to return to Rodanna's. Dinner was made to perfection with steak and seafood for me and fish and chips for Linda.
I noticed two gentleman at the table across from us. At first glance I thought it was an actor and his agent, perhaps from Los Angeles. I was in a very, very good mood and I wanted to meet these gentleman. So I went out onto the back deck of the restaurant to smoke a cigarette and half way to the door another table of diners were aware of the energy in the restaurant. A lady said, "Sir! You left your hat on the chair!". I somehow took this as a cue and began to employ my training and career as an actor. "Thank you, Ms!", I said with a modicum of gratitude. Thus began a deliberate comedy of errors as I moved back towards the table and tripped knocking the table so the glass of water almost fell but caught it just in time.
Then I grabbed my hat slightly embarrassed and dropped it twice before I made it back to the patio door. I went to shut the door behind me but the bolt that locked the door was extended, so I took the opportunity to try to close it with the bolt knocking several times, alerting the gentleman to simply show me that the door was stopped by the lock. Noticing that I had their attention, I then took the opportunity to introduce myself.
It seems that there was a mystical chemistry in the air that evening and I invited the two gentlemen to join us on the patio and they did oblige us with their presence. It turns out that it was the Bishop of Idaho and the Director of the Diocese. We talked for quite a bit and laughed and shared our life experiences. I mentioned that Linda was an amazing realist artist.
The Bishop's interest seemed to spark as he is also an artist. I told them we were staying at The Monastery at St. Gertrude and they knew it well. After all, this was the Bishop of all Idaho. Connecting these two experiences out on the patio of Rodonna's restaurant, spending time with Christian and The Bishop, and having Linda join in and find us all on the patio waiting to hear about her art on a clear night under a nearly full moon was a beautiful experience. You might see why I began to feel a deep spiritual surge within me as sometimes life is about timing and connectivity. .
I will be exhibiting a series of paintings at The Artisans at The Dahmen Barn a solo show which consists of paintings and drawings that are part of this new journey on the West Coast.
By the way, it is also important for me to mention The The Monastery of St. Gertrude is home to artist-in-residency programs - please click this text for more details.
About
Preserving the past for the future, the museum features a rich and in-depth collection focusing on the history of North Central Idaho, specifically, mining, ranching, farming, the Chinese in Idaho, the Nez Perce, local characters, antique weapons and more.
Mission & Vision
Our mission is to preserve the rich heritage of the Monastery of St. Gertrude, Camas Prairie, Snake River, Salmon River and surrounding areas.
I would like to thank Sister Teresa, Carla, and Tim for an experience that is leading me through another major spiritual reflective stage in my life.
--------
To add to this mystical odyssey we decided to return to Rodanna's. Dinner was made to perfection with steak and seafood for me and fish and chips for Linda.
I noticed two gentleman at the table across from us. At first glance I thought it was an actor and his agent, perhaps from Los Angeles. I was in a very, very good mood and I wanted to meet these gentleman. So I went out onto the back deck of the restaurant to smoke a cigarette and half way to the door another table of diners were aware of the energy in the restaurant. A lady said, "Sir! You left your hat on the chair!". I somehow took this as a cue and began to employ my training and career as an actor. "Thank you, Ms!", I said with a modicum of gratitude. Thus began a deliberate comedy of errors as I moved back towards the table and tripped knocking the table so the glass of water almost fell but caught it just in time.
Then I grabbed my hat slightly embarrassed and dropped it twice before I made it back to the patio door. I went to shut the door behind me but the bolt that locked the door was extended, so I took the opportunity to try to close it with the bolt knocking several times, alerting the gentleman to simply show me that the door was stopped by the lock. Noticing that I had their attention, I then took the opportunity to introduce myself.
It seems that there was a mystical chemistry in the air that evening and I invited the two gentlemen to join us on the patio and they did oblige us with their presence. It turns out that it was the Bishop of Idaho and the Director of the Diocese. We talked for quite a bit and laughed and shared our life experiences. I mentioned that Linda was an amazing realist artist.
The Bishop's interest seemed to spark as he is also an artist. I told them we were staying at The Monastery at St. Gertrude and they knew it well. After all, this was the Bishop of all Idaho. Connecting these two experiences out on the patio of Rodonna's restaurant, spending time with Christian and The Bishop, and having Linda join in and find us all on the patio waiting to hear about her art on a clear night under a nearly full moon was a beautiful experience. You might see why I began to feel a deep spiritual surge within me as sometimes life is about timing and connectivity. .
I will be exhibiting a series of paintings at The Artisans at The Dahmen Barn a solo show which consists of paintings and drawings that are part of this new journey on the West Coast.
By the way, it is also important for me to mention The The Monastery of St. Gertrude is home to artist-in-residency programs - please click this text for more details.
Monastery Of St. Gertrude
https://stgertrudes.org/
The Spirit Center
https://stgertrudes.org/spirit-center-about/
The Historical Museum
http://www.historicalmuseumatstgertrude.org/
https://stgertrudes.org/
The Spirit Center
https://stgertrudes.org/spirit-center-about/
The Historical Museum
http://www.historicalmuseumatstgertrude.org/