Western Steds...

Soaking it all up

... is preferable to the real Steds right now. Why? Because like clock work, the heat and humidity of Northern Indiana have returned, making everything insufferable, and again, like clock work, ALL AC units are off line. But who cares?!  It all has given way to the sun and surf of Orange County California. On moving Steds out west, Fr. Ralph said, "I am enjoying the change of scenery, and as always, I am adapting to the local way of life. Wish we all could be Californian!"

Best of...

... the Gentlemen's Monthly. Yes, TEN years ago today, here was today's posting. Enjoy this blast from the past! 

Off to the races!

Stedsmen at Belmont Park with the Lady Lobaccaro

Recently graduated Stedsmen traveled from the "unfashionable West Egg" to Elmont, New York, for the 147th Belmont Stakes. With hopes high for a Triple Crown winner, everyone was in good spirits up until the race finished and California Chrome loss. On the 4th place finish of California Chrome, Dan Rish said, "Now how am I going to pay my student loans?"

VIDEO: AND THEY'RE OFF!

Your Sunday picture...

Another great day comes to a close

... from Notre Dame. Here is a sunset view of campus with the Basilica's steeple and Mary and the Dome in the background. It was a beautiful scene as the sun sets on another great summer day, and the picture says it all... that another great day is on its way! Enjoy and enjoy your Sunday wherever you may be!

Best of...

... the Gentlemen's Monthly. Yes, TEN years ago today, here was today's posting. Enjoy this blast from the past!

Saturday's Squirrel.

If you don't mind, I'd rather have some more of that leaf.

This squirrel is really enjoying his afternoon "leaf snack." When I looked at this furry campus neighbor, her non-verbals said, "This is really good tree leaf."

VIDEO: Squirrel Antics

It's been a...

Sam and his dad at La Sagrada Familia... 

... busy Spring Semester, but for some Stedsmen it was a big vacation. Yes, some Stedsmen never stopped their summer vacation. How? By studying abroad of course! One such gentleman is Sam Jenkins. A native of northern Colorado, Jenkins went to Spain this spring for a three month vacation. And amid all the learning paella and sangria, what fun he had. On his time abroad, Jenkins shared, "My extended vacation called 'study abroad' was nothing short of extraordinary. New friends, laughter, and personal growth. To top it all off, my dad, Joe, met me in Barcelona before we head off to Istanbul and Greece with my mom, Kristynn, brother Ben, and sister, Claire. And for the grand finale, Jenkins men will be heading to our roots in Ireland for my cousin's bachelor party before his long awaited wedding this summer and much needed break. Go Irish!" 

... touring and taking in the sight...

... and when admiring all this...

... one has to take a break afterwards!

They're getting...

The Engaged: Matt and Fran

... married! It’s official. They’re getting married! AnneMarie "Fran" Gregory '21 and Matt Coffey '21 of St. Ed's are getting married. In April, Matt proposed to Fran in a park in Washington D.C., and thankfully, Fran said yes! Still, thankfully, a photographer was present and captured Coffey's proposal as it unfolded. Enjoy! The happy, engaged couple look forward to exchanging their vows in the summer of 2025 at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart at Notre Dame. On their engagement and wedding, Josh Gambardella, New Yorker and fellow Stedsman, said, "Matt and Fran are engaged! This couple has the heart and brains to accomplish anything. I’m thrilled for them and can’t wait to continue my friendship with them both, now as husband and wife!"

... Fran is surprised...

... and says YES!

Saturday's Squirrel.

Knock, knock...

Most of the time our furry friends are frolicking about on the quads or lounging about in the many trees on campus, but every now and then, they are found in the most peculiar places. That was certainly the case with this squirrel. Spotted outside Sacred Heart Crypt Parish door, this squirrel appeared wanting to gain access to the church but could not. On being spotted at the door of the church, this surprised surprised squirrel non-verbaled, "Oh, did see you there. I was looking for the Mass schedule."

... I'll come back tomorrow.