Happy Thanksgiving to All!

[theatokos]

I remain in San Diego area. The American Academy of Religion conference was amazing. I would have had more fun were I not pregnant (and needing to be in bed by 9pm every night!) and had I known more people there. As it was I heard many great papers, got to see and meet several incredible figures in the religion field, as well as hear some really tedious papers. Clearly, my standards are set too high, as always. It tunrs out you do not have to be brilliant to present nationally. Infact, the only paper I went to that even remotely touched on Mary was weak and was essentially a film review. So there is hope for me yet!

I'm sure once I pull my thoughts together I'll have more to say. Highlights from the conference include spending over an hour talking with Judith Plaskow, amazing Jewish feminist theologian, meeting a woman from the University of Alaska Anchorage, who gave me great tips about using my knowledge in Alaska, and spending time with qbitum.

I have been struggling a lot with judgementalism and perfectionism; partially this is brought on by being with the in-laws, but exacerbated by the conference. I'm doing a good job of just noticing it and letting it go, but it's disappointing nonetheless that these qualities are such majorparts of me.

So far, all this time with my in-laws has been fine. Even, dare I say, enjoyable.Mom-in-law even took me shopping and bought me some clothes to fit my now larger body. She's also supplied me with much wonderful Mexican food. Sweet lord, the Mexican food here is incredible!!

Now, we are all preparing for T-Day. The house smells great, the weather is balmy. I hope all of you are having a wonderful relaxing holiday, too.

Comments

[snowcalla.livejournal.com]

I can't tell you how jealous I am that you were able to attend the conference. Next year it is in Chicago - so I hope I can attend that one.

[ewigweibliche.livejournal.com]

Hello! Please tell me what your area of study is! I "do" Mariology, the study of the Virgin Mary, essentially falling into Christian systematic theology and religious history, but with a strong feminist point of view. I'm also very interested in pagan scholarship (if only there were more pagan theologians out there!), as well as women's religious movements, and feminism in general.

Are you studying through a particular school or program?

I doubt I will be able to go to the conference next year in Chicago, as I am having a baby in the summer and money is tight. But I'd like to go if I can. I had an excellent time!