Construction Control

Although we are past the completion date (no surprise there!) we are getting toward the end of our construction project.  It is a good thing, for all of us are getting weary and eagerly look forward to returning our cloister home to its usual peace and quiet.  Meanwhile, we do the best we can to survive. Both St. Clare and St. Colette lived through construction, and so can we!

Last week began the hanging of the dry walls which has to be about the messiest part of construction from the view of the inside.  Cutting, “mudding” and sanding create clouds of dust and white footprints everywhere. The new novitiate dorm, being located near the current dorm, has been the special concern of our novitiate Sisters.  Recently, they took extra initiative to try to keep the mess somewhat under control, including ripping up the protective paper floor covering the men had laid down, washing the hall and laying down fresh paper. 

It did not last long. 

But still it was an improvement.

One evening after night prayers, I was on my way to retiring, when I happened to see this sight:

It looked like the workmen had laid out their next day’s work down the hall.  Some enterprising novice decided that the Sisters all needed a warning:

Silence or no silence, I could not help laughing out loud!  I must humbly admit that by the grace of God, I have never been tempted to walk on the walls!  Climbing them…maybe…but never to walk on them!  Humor is a good tonic.  I slept well that night.

May God reward you, our good friends, who have been with us throughout this saga.  Soon we shall be able to show you more beautiful pictures!