Saturday, December 19, 2009

SNOW!

We are enjoying an unexpected snowfall which has me home from work :)
They closed work so I am having some much needed time with the family baking cookies and watching the snow!
Teresa played in the snow all day but didn't want us to share a picture, maybe I will get a good one of her tomorrow ;)
Here is a pic of our dog Francis enjoying the snow, one of Alex midway through the storm..check out how high the snow is!
And one of our Christmas tree!
Merry Christmas!!
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Friday, December 4, 2009

Why Christmas is AWESOME!

Christmas is by far my favorite Holiday. Easter is my 2nd favorite! The birth of Christ is what the celebration is all about. I have heard some people say that the origin of Christmas is pagan, was the winter solstace, etc. Guess what..its Christmas now my friend and its all about Jesus!
Thats right, its as Christian a holiday as one could get!
Jesus is the reason for the season,a great catch phrase if you ask me cause it sums it all up!
Merry Christmas Pictures, Images and Photos
Yes we can all get caught up in the commercial aspect, and some folks think its all about the gifts but we who read this know better, its about the food!
Lol..just kidding!
Its about Jesus!
And what can be wrong about a holiday where we celebrate our Great Reedemers birth!
Decorations, I see it as getting ready for the birth of the KING, who wouldn't want to make their house as fabulous as possible to recognize the Kings birth, King Jesus!
Christmas trees symbolize every year of our precious life here, we collect those ornaments year after year, keeping traditions passed down through the years such as Christmas carols and of course Santa gets to have his day, giving presents to those who are good, just as the 3 kings gave presents to Jesus of gold and incense and myrr..(spelling haha)
So to those who say its pagan..not anymore its for Jesus!
Read about how a great Saint used the Christmas tree ..from wikipedia,
"While the Christmas tree's pagan roots are generally accepted, there still are various legends of Christian origins for the tradition. Such legends often relate to Saint Boniface. Such as: Boniface, in the process of converting local pagans, cuts down Thor's Oak, a hallowed tree for the locals, and claims a fir tree growing in the Oak's roots to be a new symbol Jesus Christ for the converted locals. Francis Weisler argued that Christmas trees are “completely Christian in origin" and that "the Yule tree had no direct pagan connotation..." [2]
Christmas Tree Pictures, Images and Photos
"The custom of erecting a Christmas tree can be traced to 16th century Northern Germany, though neither an inventor nor a single town can be identified as the sole origin for the tradition. The tradition spread rapidly throughout Germany and abroad. "It was not until the beginning of the nineteenth century, however, that it spread rapidly and grew into a general German custom, which was soon accepted also by the Slavic people of Eastern Europe…" [3] In the Cathedral of Strasbourg in 1539, the church record mentions the erection of a Christmas tree. In that period, the guilds started erecting Christmas trees in front of their guildhalls: Ingeborg Weber-Kellermann (Marburg professor of European ethnology) found a Bremen guild chronicle of 1570 which reports how a small fir was decorated with "apples, nuts, dates, pretzels and paper flowers" and erected in the guild-house, for the benefit of the guild members' children, who collected the dainties on Christmas Day.[4] Another early reference is from Basel, where the tailor apprentices carried around town a tree decorated with apples and cheese in 1597.

In some accounts, Martin Luther is credited with adding lights and decoration to fir branches traditionally hung from ceilings."
Being Catholic I might not agree with Martin Luther on many things but I give him a high five on the lights and decoration idea :)
In two words,
CHRISTMAS ROCKS
and I love it!
MERRY CHRISTMAS
glowingtreeAtnightinsnow Pictures, Images and Photos

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Blessings!

Thanksgiving time, turkey time!
Are you thankful? What is Thanksgiving about?
funny pictures of cats with captions
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
The answer is.....
Blessings!
I am thankful for blessings, I am thankful to be a wife and mother which are my true callings. I am thankful to have been through the rocky times and am still here plugging along. I know more rocky times are ahead, cause thats what life is about so I brace myself for them but don't forget to enjoy and open my heart to really living life.
Alex got a bunch of applications in the mail for college and it hit me that he will be going away to college in less than 2 years ! ..oh my goodness!
When my kids were little this pic reminds me of me with them
funny pictures of cats with captions
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
Its so hard to let them grow up but I suppose thats what its all about, letting them fly. I will enjoy every moment they are in my nest and my privlage it is to be their mamma, now and forever!
I pray they both love God and always follow the Lord Jesus and keep Him in their hearts as they grow up. Teresa and Alex, you are my life and everything I do I do for you!
Happy Thanksgiving

Sunday, November 15, 2009

What Wonderous Love is This?

I am singing a new hymn, well new to me tomorrow at Mass so I went to youtube to try to learn it and I found this awesome beautiful video of Irish artists singing in such a beautiful setting and playing wonderful music and I learned to sing this song from the Video!
This song was written by an anonomous writer in the year 1811..pretty cool!
Enjoy!

Lyrics,

What Wondrous Love Is This
By: Anon.
What wondrous love is this, O my soul, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this
That caused the Lord of bliss
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul, for my soul,
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul!


To God and to the Lamb I will sing, I will sing;
To God and to the Lamb I will sing;
To God and to the Lamb,
Who is the great I AM,
While millions join the theme, I will sing, I will sing,
While millions join the theme, I will sing.

And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on;
And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on.
And when from death I’m free
I’ll sing His love for me,
And through eternity I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on,
And through eternity I’ll sing on.



Monday, November 9, 2009

What I am thinking about

Well first thing is I want to give yet another shout out to Stacey and say her Phillies did pretty good ol New York got em but they sure did well so they are my new fav team :)

Philadelphia Phillies Pictures, Images and Photos
Time is flying and I am back to working overtime to pay bills and maybe put a little away for Christmas. That new job I talked about didn't work out I am back to my old job taking phone calls but am happy to be "home" as far as work goes and it was my decision to go back to the same job. Maybe I am not up for new challenges as far as work goes I guess, but It just wasn't for me so glad to be back doing what I know how to do very well :)

Alex is back in public school, another financial decision..Catholic High school was way more financially than we expected with various expenses but he is happy and will be able to go back to playing the trumpet and playing basketball with his old buddies so he was a bit sad but is adjusting fine.

Teresa, my little girl, has been such a good helper and doing dishes and cleaning the kitchen while I work evenings so she makes me very proud! I know she is motivated by something called an ipod but I choose to believe its also cause she is my little angel.

I don't mention my mom too often but thought I would mention she is doing quite well but I would love to see her socialize more she rarely leaves her room at the care home and is not intersted in the craft group or bingo anymore which worries me but I can only pray she can be happy and visit her often. She still loves her coffee and making out greeting cards :) Oh and we both watch Days of our Lives, I tape mine every day and watch it late at night before bed, thats something we gossip about and we have that soap to chat about together so I cherish that.

I am very proud of my hubby Mark he is working hard at the grocery store and he is my sweetheart. I hope he knows that.

I love this thread Pictures, Images and Photos

God bless and have a great November :)

Don't forget to eat your fruit and hug the cute :)
Fruit & Cute Pictures, Images and Photos

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Shoutout for my friend Stacey

Your team is rockin girl!!!!!
Phillies Pictures, Images and Photos

Ode to Yuppies

Yuppies
Hot Coffee Pictures, Images and Photos

Drinking their strong coffee with Starbucks oatmeal
With a Red Bull Chaser
Whats it Chasing?
Chasing Dreams, Hopes. Like a bull seeing red
And red is a power color, good to wear for those interviews..
..but dreams can intertwine with Greed and Lust
What was the pursuit of happines can become a trap
Easy to fall into but hard to spot!
Unless you are careful
s2182-14.jpg Pictures, Images and Photos

To be one of us, they say, is to embrace the Left
If you are an artist you have to have an "oh so open mind"
I beg to differ
I consider myself a creative one as well, embracing the right
because the right is so right..conservative can be cool
Much to their dismay..
I don't follow the "anything goes" games they play
Because following the rules might get me to heaven someday


Perhaps I sabatoge my own personal growth
but those growing pains can hurt so bad!
I like familiar territory, Like an old cat in her rocking chair.
Nothing wrong with that, nothing wrong with the cat
So don't dismiss her
Embrace her
For who she is
Cat In Rocking Chair Eating Lemons Pictures, Images and Photos
The end

A little late night insight from me...:)
The irony here..I really love starbucks lol!

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Pro Life voice needs to be heard!!!!

Please continue to pray for our unborn. As I drove my car past the protestors in front of an abortion clinic in my town I honked my horn and gave the thumbs up ..they are doing Gods work stopping women from killing their own children. I have protested with them and I can tell you it is not always safe to be a protestor, especially in bad parts of town where these clinics are but it is needed. Folks pray the Rosary 7 days a week and hold up signs, helping out on a rotating basis when their busy lives permit to fight this evil. I have not helped in a long time but I think I need to get out there and pray with them!!
If you can't protest please simply pray as that is warfare which is strong againt this evil which has been legal for way to many years.
God bless!!!
Watch this video and reflect...

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

The most amazing story I have ever heard!

Barry Pictures, Images and Photos

I like this picture..its like Barry Manilow is saying..step right up here and sing with me Stacey!


This is a story..TRUE LIFE STORY of my friend Stacey, in her words...Thank you Stacey for letting me post this here to share. God bless..isn't God amazing..oh and Barry Manilow too!



Barry Manilow. Who? Those were my thoughts exactly when some family invited me to go sit in the front row at the Community Arts Center. A part in the show that is familiar to so many begins and the signs start appearing and people are screaming. Barry invites a lucky woman up on stage with him to sing a duet with him. Apparently, becoming a "Can't Smile Without You" girl is something to strive for in the Manilow world. The show ends and I go home. Who would have ever thought that this man would impact my life in such a way that he would be forever etched in my memory. Four days after this concert, I am lying in the ICU unit in a coma. The doctors and nurses tell my family to play music that I like in hopes that it could stir me from this state. Being an avid fan of Frank Sinatra, my mother begins to play some of his popular, well known tunes. To no avail, this does nothing for my current state. So she remembers the Barry Manilow concert I just attended with her and other family. Thinking that this relatively new memory would impact me in a way that would stir me from this unconscious state. Well...low and behold, it does just that. Barry's music is played and the very next day I start to emerge from this state of sleep. From that day on, his music is the only thing that gets me through the agitation stages of the coma and really just gives me a sense of calmness. Coming out of a coma is more than just waking up. There are many stages a person must go through to come completely out and Barry Manilow's music is what seemed to get me though it. Having never listened to his music before, I just couldn't get enough of it. I wrote letters to him and got responses from him and read and watched everything Barry Manilow. I spent obscene amounts of money and traveled all over to his shows hoping to just get a chance to meet this man in person. I make my way to Wilkes Barre, PA only to have the best seat I have ever had at a show. I make my way to the 17th row on the floor in front of the stage carrying with me a huge sign that says, "you saved my life Barry Manilow." The second half of the show starts and I hear the opening notes to Can't Smile Without You and the place goes wild. Everyone is standing with their signs in the air, including me, and I just know that I am going to get picked. I start to hear him reading a sign, "you saved my life Barry Manilow" and I just about die. He says, "come up here, lets hear that story." I run up on stage and just keep saying "oh my god, oh my god!" I get to kiss and hug and hold hands and sway to the music with this "ultimate showman." I could have just died right then and there and my life would have been complete. Unbeknown-st to me at the time, God was in complete control and I know He orchestrated the whole thing.

Stacey Tupper, Christ follower

Monday, October 5, 2009

Pretty little Church

Pretty Church in Autumn Pictures, Images and Photos
Pretty Little Church sitting by the brook
I went right past you without a second look
So beautiful, simple and pure
Your congregation I am sure you adore

Getting together on a crisp fall day
Ready to hear Gods Word today
Pretty Little Church.. do you know my heart?
Lighten my burdens, You are my new start

You are Gods house where we worship and pray
And talk about Jesus and the price He did pay
Pretty Little Church, I will make time for you
I surrender my heart, make me feel new!

a simple, pretty little poem by me

Monday, September 28, 2009

Where are we going?

Well its almost October. The trees are starting to turn beautiful colors and its one of my favorite times of the year. This picture looks just like a picture from my dreams .. autumn Pictures, Images and Photos
Kind of a question in a picture "where are we going?"
A time to reflect on the road thats ahead. A time to look back at the road left behind. The important thing is to keep on driving, keeping our eyes on the narrow road ahead, to stay on that path which the Lord has His hand on. In a lot of ways my life is an open book, kind of boring to those who may look in actually. What is ahead for you..What do you want to do new this year ahead?
I will think about that and come back for another post soon :)
God bless!

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Have you experienced this?

Well its the middle of September, Fall is upon us. I love the fall, when the air turns crisp, the leaves turn colors, autumn splendor, like God took a paintbrush to the trees. I love the Fall, and my birthday is in October so thats cool. But something strange happens to me every year around this time, and lasts untill after the new year..I get a little down, sometimes a lot down actually in previous years. I went through a lot in my life during the fall times, I lost my dad many years ago in November, my mom was always hospitalized against her will into a mental facility in the fall, all throughout my childhood, and other unspoken trauma I have had to deal with..all around this season it seems.

I never really thought about it honestly..the timing of it all that is. It affects my whole family..my husband seems to be under more stress..everything. I never really thought about the connection untill driving home tonight from Church where I was at a ladies group called Catholic Daughters. I started to cry a few tears on my way home tonight..thinking about it all for some reason. Maybe time to start up the medication again lol!


Anyway..isn't it something how our mind holds on to pain. You think you are done with it then it socks you right in the noggin sometimes. I guess it keeps us humble..I know I seek God always but even more when I feel unsettled.
I try to keep focus on these amazing blessings I have, family, friends, stuff like that..the important stuff. I begin to feel guilty for feeling sad when so much good is going on right now all around us. This world still has so many good people in it and the Lord is so good to us all. So I'm a little nutty in the fall and early winter..hey..we all have our quirks!


I will not waste one more moment on it.. now that I know the connnection and why I will deal with it like a grown up. Do you all get down a certain time of year and seem to be fine the rest of the year?
Maybe I need to go where there is an eternal summer at the beach..like maybe Hawaii..LOL!
footprints Pictures, Images and Photos

In my dreams haha!
You know what they say..if your problems seem to big..well..run for your life..haha just kidding
They actually say..no problem too big for GOD!
Hallelujah!
Glory be to the most high Jesus Christ!

Saturday, September 12, 2009

My daughter..Navy bound?

My daughter Teresa has said for a few years now that she wants to go in the Navy when she grows up. I dismissed this as just a kid loving the ocean, like me and in all honesty do not like the idea of my daughter going into the service. When my dad was alive he always talked about how he did NOT want me going into the army like he was because its tough for women in the service. Granted this was many years ago and things have changed for women in the service, there are many good women who fight for our country and I am not saying that but...my daughter?

My little girl? Well it seems she has been more obsessed by this in the last year so I will support my little girl in whatever aspiration she has and will be proud of her no matter what. She is only 13 but she is a girl with a mission :)
We will see where life takes her. I love my little girl with all my heart!
She will always be my baby girl! I can't believe she is in the 7th grade already. Wow how time flies!
I found an old sailors hymn to share here :)



Called Eternal Father Strong to save

God bless!

Eternal Father, Strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who bid'st the mighty Ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep;
O hear us when we cry to thee,
for those in peril on the sea.

O Christ! Whose voice the waters heard
And hushed their raging at Thy word,
Who walked'st on the foaming deep,
and calm amidst its rage didst sleep;
Oh hear us when we cry to Thee
For those in peril on the sea!

Most Holy spirit! Who didst brood
Upon the chaos dark and rude,
And bid its angry tumult cease,
And give, for wild confusion, peace;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee
For those in peril on the sea!

O Trinity of love and power!
Our brethren shield in danger's hour;
From rock and tempest, fire and foe,
Protect them wheresoe'er they go;
Thus evermore shall rise to Thee,
Glad hymns of praise from land and sea.

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Life is sometimes stranger than fiction

Oh my I have a story!
I was driving home today minding my own business and I came around this turn slowly and slowed way down, something just told me to slow down and right out before my eyes in the middle of the road was A BABY!
A baby that couldn't be more than 18 months or 2 years!
I stopped my car right before where she was WALKING IN THE ROAD!
I stopped my car and put it in park and undid my seatbelt and just stared at her and she gave me a little smile and I roll down my window and a lady comes out of a house..I say "Is this your baby" and she says no its the neighbors. Then to my left comes the childs father who says..cool as a cucumber.. "SHE WAS JUST UP ON THE PORCH"


What the heck!!! I was in shock and did not say a word. I smile and wave goodbye and go on way my as he carries the beautiful child who is just smiling but halfway down the road I feel rage..Like I should have yelled "watch your kid" but I know that would do no good. Maybe the child got away from them but It was such a surreal moment I don't even know what to say but I thank the Lord for protecting her and guiding me to go so very slow on that road. I usually do because there is always a cat or something for me to stop for but this is unreal. I thank the Lord and Mother Mary for watching over us and guiding me because I could not live with myself if someone got hurt by my car. Thank you Jesus for being there, and I pray that those folks watch that baby more close and not let her wander all the way to the road. God be with them . I am sure it was an accident that she got out of their sight but the fact that he was not even frantic concerns me..he didn't "go nuts" as I know I would have done if my child was in the road. Maybe he was in shock but the synic in me still prays he loves that baby like he should and watches her like a hawk from now on. I have my eye out big time when I drive on these country roads but even more so now. I don't even want to drive anymore but I have to for my job, Church, etc. No way around it. I just thank God thank God all is well. Life is something else sometimes. They say timing is everything. I am so thankful for everything now. In my mailbox when I got home was a rosary. One of those you get for free for being on a Catholic mailing list. I see that as something special to have received that today. It is in my purse where it will remain always.
God bless you all. I love all my brothers and sisters in the Lord.

Amy

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Cool post from Stacey :)

Heaven Pictures, Images and Photos


This is a cool post I got from my friend Stacey. Good works follow good faith and God's grace. Good works alone will not get us into heaven. The two go hand in hand, and its Gods grace in which he sent our Lord Jesus Christ who is our Savior.
Confession is all about Gods grace, Jesus forgives our sins. Frequent Confession heals the soul and keeps us humble. "I have sinned through my own fault, in what I have done and what I have failed to do" When we recite this we admit our wrongdoings and then ask for our brothers and sisters to pray for us.
It is through Gods grace that we can be there for each other!
God bless you all and thanks again Stacey ! :)


A man dies and goes to heaven. Of course, St. Peter meets him at
> >the Pearly Gates. St. Peter says, "Here's how it works. You need
> >100 points to make it into heaven. You tell me all the good things
> >you've done, and I give you a certain number of points for each
> >item, depending on how good it was. When you reach 100 points, you get in."
> >
> >"Okay," the man says, "I was married to the same
> >woman for 50 years and never cheated on her,
> >even in my heart."
> >
> >"That's wonderful," says St.Peter, "that's worth three points!"
> >
> >"Three points?" he says. "Well, I attended church
> >all my life and supported its ministry with my tithe and service."
> >
> >"Terrific!" says St.Peter. "That's certainly worth a point."
> >
> >"One point!?!!" "I started a soup kitchen in my city and worked in
> >a shelter for homeless veterans."
> >
> >"Fantastic, that's good for two more points," he says.
> >
> >"Two points!?!! "Exasperated, the man cries.
> >
> >"At this rate the only way I'll get into heaven is by the grace of God."
> > "Bingo, 100 points ! Come on in!"
> >
> >We often try to fix problems with WD-40 and duct tape.
> >God did it with a nail.
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >The Law of God condemns the best of men
> >The Grace of God saves the worst of men

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Updates

Well I got the job. Day shift woo hoo. Not really any more money cause I loose night diff but its a small increase so it makes up for the night diff so all in all about the same pay but its time for something new. Hope i made the right choice. Nice thing is no more weekend work so working "banker hours" for real :)
Here is a really cute video of a little kid saying The Lords Prayer :)
Enjoy!

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Job interview tomorrow!

Hi everyone!
I have a job interview tomorrow..same company but its a promotion and a whole different department working in the loans department. If its meant to be it will be but hopefully I will do well on the interview!
I will keep you posted on the details of my interview.
This Sunday I am going to visit the inlaws in Maryland and take the kids swimming after Mass and visiting my Mom so it will be a busy weekend.
Hope I won't be too nervous tomorrow :)
This photo below decribes how I am sure we all feel sometimes..gives new meaning to
"the rat race" :)
Cubicle Rat Pictures, Images and Photos
Be well and God bless!

Friday, August 7, 2009

Jesus our Lord

When you meet someone for the first time how often we get asked "what do you do for a living" or "Do you work or are you a housewife" ..etc!
So often I get weighed down with my answer "I work at a bank"
No thats not my vocation. My vocation is being a wife and mom right? Well yes but.... My vocation is loving Jesus and serving Him and in doing so I must be the best Mom, Wife and I suppose bank worker I can be (lol!)
Like in this picture Jesus carried me many times. Sometimes He led me to people who helped pick me up. Sometimes I have had the honor of helping others who I believe He brought to me as well..
when jesus carried me Pictures, Images and Photos

My friend Stacey calls herself a Christ follower! Thats what we all should strive to be. Mother Teresa shares with us also in regard to this.
Sunrise over ocean Pictures, Images and Photos

"Many people mistake our work for our vocation. Our vocation is the love of Jesus."
Mother Teresa

Mother's Prayer

Pope John Paul & Mother Teresa Pictures, Images and Photos

The version found written on the wall in Mother Teresa's home for children in Calcutta:

People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you. Be honest and sincere anyway.

What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous. Be happy anyway.

The good you do today, will often be forgotten. Do good anyway.

Give the best you have, and it will never be enough. Give your best anyway.

In the final analysis, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.

-this version is credited to Mother Teresa

There is a song that is written with this poem..called Mothers prayer on the Album "Love wins All" by Matthew Baute. Its at www.songsforprayer.com
Check it out it is a lovely song everyone can appreciate.
God bless :)

Friday, July 31, 2009

Seen any good movies recently?

I haven't ..but want to take the kids to the movies soon. I have not taken them this summer and its something we do at least once on summer vacation. Any ideas for something family friendly and fun? This chubby kitty looks like he's watchin a good movie :)
Popcorn Kitty Pictures, Images and Photos

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Check out this link about Church's closing in PA..so sad

http://www.mcall.com/news/local/all-churchclosingphotos-0713,0,872991.photogallery

Cut and paste this website to see all the beautiful Churches in Allentown area that are closing..so sad ...Makes me think about the Billy Joel song "ALLENTOWN" exept the lyric "they're closing all the factories down...is replaced with "they're closing all the Parishes down"...makes me want to cry :(
What do you think?
I am praying for all affected by Church closings.
Please join me

prayers Pictures, Images and Photos

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Ok upon much worry and pondering....

Alex is actually going to Catholic High School! So excited. Many thank you's to his grandpa who came through for us and will pay half the fee I must pay so....I will be able to make it work :)
My Father in law really came through for us. God bless him and God bless you all!
Thank You Pictures, Images and Photos

FOR YOUR PRAYERS

Monday, July 6, 2009

Alex is going to the Catholic high school

I am pleased to announce that my son Alex got in to the Catholic prep school and with financial help it looks like he will be going for the next 2 years :)
Pray that the financial grant comes through I still have not heard back but we will make a way either way because of his call to religious vocations. I can't believe my little boy is going to be a junior in high school :O
Wow they grow up fast. I am blessed. The school is beaufiful there are statues which are lovely. They look like this one but not exactly
Catholic University, Dublin - Chapel Pictures, Images and Photos
I lost the cord to plug my new digital camera in to download pics I have taken of the kids..grrrrr. I will share them as soon as I can.
Love to all!
Amy

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Whats new?

Well its been a while since I have posted. Alex received the Sacrament of Confirmation June 14th! WOO HOO!
I will post pics soon. I am so excited for him. It was a great day. Family shared in the joy, and after we went out for pizza. I wish my mom could have seen him on the alter!
Alex has an interview with the Catholic Prep school this Wednesday. I am still trying to work out a plan to budget for that expense.
Teresa is glad to be on summer break and is enjoying playing all day and helping me around the house and learning how to ride the lawn mower :)
I of course have been busy working 2nd shift and getting off work late and trying to juggle it all as usual along with what is still chronic pain from the disc in my neck from the car accident earlier this year.
My hubby Mark is busy being Mr. Mom in the evening while I'm at work and hes enjoying playing games with the kids.
I read here on the net that there was a fatal metro crash in Washington DC
Please pray for the victims and their families.
I am still a Cantor at Noon Mass and enjoying singing for the Lord!
What are your plans for the summer?

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

I met my Sister and Brother!

We spent only one wonderful afternoon together. We had lunch at Bob Evans instead of Olive Garden, and talked about the Father we all knew and loved. They talked about how Dad was just wonderful, how he drove with only one arm on the wheel and the other one around whoever was lucky enough to sit beside him in the car. We talked about his love of ice cream, the ocean, and his kids. We talked about how their mother kept him away from them and how my mother kept them away from me. Years later, we are across from each other and my sister said "I would know you in Wal Mart your my sister!"

We talked about life, realtionships, and hope to see each other for a real visit next summer, to stay together maybe in a cabin in the woods and see Dollywood. I told my brother that Mark my husband liked Dolly Parton. He said "I bet he has 2 good reasons why" haha..a comical one just like our Dad. I have not spoke to them since that magical day I guess I am letting it all sink in.. I will call them soon. I will call them brother and sister. I hope life is kind to them. I noticed Daniel's eyes smile like Dads..and my sister has his nose. What a day!
I thank God for this chance to get to know them!

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Depression...NOT!



Ok so I suffer from depression now and then..I am not afraid to admit it as I once was. I always thought I was just being weak or something like that. I have found that my relationship with Jesus has helped me through. Also good friends here online. (Thank you Stacey :) I find it easier to talk online than in person as I tend to put on a "everythings ok" front even when its totally not. Little things can set me off, not getting a promotion at work can lead me a freak out and thinking I am worthless..etc. But I only have melt downs like these once in a while. Medication can help so don't be afraid to ask for it although side effects can be a bummer also. Do you suffer from depression? What do you do to combat those feelings?
Its a tough world, its no wonder that people suffer from depression..economic woes alone can keep folks up at night. We are in this thing together ya'll!
One World, One people!
Peace!
Amy

Sunday, May 17, 2009

The Ascension of Our Lord, Holy day of Obligation

The Ascension of Our Lord, which occurred 40 days after Jesus Christ rose from the dead on Easter Sunday, is the final act of our redemption that Christ began on Good Friday. On this day, the risen Christ, in the sight of His apostles, ascended bodily into Heaven (Luke 24:51; Mark 16:19; Acts 1:9-11).
Don't forget Mass on Thursday for this Holy Day of Obligation :)

The Ascension of Our Lord Jesus Christ Pictures, Images and Photos

Happy Birthday to my little girl

Well Teresa turned 13 on May 14th!
I can't believe it.
I have had the flu all week, coughing and can't sleep right now so her party has been postponed till next weekend when my half brother and sister come into town. That is super exciting also!
Teresa has mixed emotions about being a teen and has told me she is still a kid till shes 14 and then she is grown up.
LOL
Glad to hear I have one more year of her being a "kid" :)

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Meeting my half brother and sister again!

They are coming to Washington DC for Memorial day!
I am excited, nervous, worried, etc!
I will write all about it here :)
Don't know what to think!
AHHHHHHHH
OK Later for now !

Sunday, May 3, 2009

Where I am coming from

looking at the sunset sky... Pictures, Images and Photos


I am inspired by my new friend Judith to examine all the times of my life. I will start with a little info about my childhood. I am the only child of my mom and dad. They wanted lots of kids but mom had infertility issues so viola, just me.
My Papa was married before and had 3 kids who are a bit older than me.(one passed away) His wife left him while he was serving in Vietnam. Then he was stationed in Maryland and met my lovely mama and they married 6 weeks after they met!
I found out about my brother and sisters at his funeral!
Mom told me that and I was like..boy you move fast huh!
I was born 10 months after they married :)

My Papa was super cool, he was a big guy 6 foot 5 with coal black hair and really dark eyes. My mom is schizophrenic but she was doing really well when they met, kind of like the schizophrenia was on the back burner and it got really bad after I was born. She was in a lot of hospitals all my life and Papa was so cool, cause we got to eat out alot and he was laid back. I sometimes would come home and find mom was in the hospital. It was hard on us both.

When he was alive every year we went to ocean city. I remember how his eyes sparkled when he looked at the ocean, like he belonged there, at the ocean, like a sailor. I love the ocean too and think of him anytime I am near the ocean. We used to sing songs, and he took me to the park and to see the airplanes at the airport. We watched them land and take off. We used to sing songs together. I have good memories, she made a bunny cake at Easter with 2 round cakes, I learned that from her. Mom used to take me to easter egg hunts, sometimes hosted by the hospitals she was in. I was in childrens chior and she loved to hear me sing. She took me to Church, sometimes I would go to Mass with this cool family down the street also. I actually learned a lot of Catholic traditions from them. My dad wasn't much of a churchgoer. I know he believed in God though.

I lived in the most awesome neighborhood cause I had friends I could depend on when things were really hard. It was a townhouse development and there was a pool there and I was on the swim team for many years also.
Bless her heart I wish things could have been better for her as far as her mental illness. She is doing quite well now, I must say. She lives in a special place for folks who have her condition.
Feel free to share memories with me.
God bless
Amy

Saturday, May 2, 2009

Join the Sane

pain

anger

regrets

sorrow

down the drain

break the chain

join the sane



goin through the motions

your fake smile don't fool me

afraid to feel, afraid of emotion

afraid of it all, just let it be



holdin you back from livin your life

stop putting on such a front

let go of the pain and the strife

don't be afraid to be blunt



pain

anger

regrets

sorrow

down the drain

break the chain

join the sane



Stop playin the game

always ends up the same

don't be lame

your anger contain

your mind you can train



at times it will rain

forget all the pain

your life in a frame

enjoy your fame



pain

anger

regrets

sorrow

down the drain

break the chain

join the sane

by amy

My Love

Philadelphia at Night Pictures, Images and Photos



The depth of your soul amazes me

It hides beneath a willow tree

Waiting to be discovered

Longing to be uncovered



You hold back your emotion

Maybe my love will be the secret potion

That you need to finally see

Whats important to be free



Of your past and of your inhibitions

Let go of your crazy superstitions

Come with me to the city

Its dazzling lights reflect off your green eyes so pretty



What is it about you?, I always liked an artist

Your sullen moods I deal with are the hardest

They have messed with my mind

And maybe I have been unkind



You say your too old to start anew

Babe you know thats not true

Its time to lighten up

Come on.. your still a young pup



We will dine in a quaint cafe

I hang on every word you say

Your arms so strong, you mystify me

I can't look in your eyes, I'm afraid you will see



I am just an illusion, my reality you may fear

Just hold me close, hold me near

An angel brought you my way

My love... please stay

by amy

for funny little artist man

The Amplified Version of LIfe

The amplified version of life

Either a travesty or blessing

Feeling everything in high definition

Both glorious and depressing



Gazing past shadows in the night

Lamenting on moments preceding

Fearing what may be ahead

Worried happiness is fleeting



Reveling in moments of joy

Beauty shall be revealed

Sorrow will depart at last

True destiny is sealed

by amy

For My husband

Walkin' along the shore, a scenic gentle tide

Then you came along, with your stoic little smile

Salt water in the breeze, and you by my side

Sunrise over water, the waves go on for miles



You sit and paint the landscape

Your paint drips in the sand

I enjoy watching your little artist world

As I try to get a suntan



I get a little angry as you glance at another cutie

You say "I am a painter, capturing beauty is my duty"

I say, "good one babe, do you use that line alot"

You say "only when it works, but your clever.. I forgot!"



I forgive your little antics, because your boyish little ways

Have stole my heart already, and I just met you today

Your a funny little honey, your disposition is so sunny

I don't even really care that you lack a thing called money



Are you the one to take me away on a horse to a beautiful land?

I can finally see the colors you paint, my world is no longer bland.

So my love give me your hand and lets go for a swim

In this neverending sea of life, together till the end

by amy

for funny little artist man

The Happy Strum of the Guitar in the Night!

The happy strum of the guitar in the night

Makes everything feel allright

You feel the meaning, the story is told

The beautiful music starts to take hold



Of your fear, and of your concerns

You savor every moment, and your heart yearns

For this moment to never end...

Cause it feels like everyone is your friend!



The feeling is rare, nothing can compare

You sit gazing in your chair

and witness art so pure

The fans scream for more



Its good to kick back, relax, and chill

Being part of the crowd, oh what a thrill!

So rock on rockstar, show me what you got!

Oh yeah you got talent, not just a little, but a whole lot!



Inspired awesome riffs you play

Right on! Your gonna make it big someday!

by amy

Thursday, April 30, 2009

Life is Music! Poem

We all have music that speaks to our soul
Maybe you dig good rock and roll
I noticed you dress with a lot of pizzaz
So I would bet your favorite is Jazz
I noticed you like a guy in a cowboy hat
So I bet you think Country is where its at

Maybe your like me, more creative than intellectual
So I bet your love of punk is quite perpetual
I noticed you have pure class and style
So I bet you have liked Opera for quite a while
Your quite a dancer I must say
I bet you would choose Broadway any old day

The heartbeat of life is the sound of a song
Your favorite style can never be wrong
Different genre's make up the diverse, wonderful universe
Lift your song to the heaven's, no need to rehearse
You have got one life, one chance
So get out there, shake those hips and dance!

By Amy

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Can't believe my Teresa is turning 13!

My little girl is turning 13 on May 14th!
I remember when she was born, right after Mothers day that year.
She was a wonderful mothers day present.
I admire all you moms who have lots of kids. I am sure thankful for my 2!
I would of course welcome more but I am unable to have any more but am blessed to the max with my son and daughter. I don't always tell them in words how much they mean to me, gotta remember to do that.

Happy Birthday Teresa Mary
by the way..Teresa is my mother in laws name and Mary is my moms name :)
God bless!

Whats up with the weather!

Its been super hot like 90 degrees here in PA and it just aint time for that yet a bit too hot for April :)
Its gonna cool down this week which is good. This is beach weather makes me wanna go to Ocean City!

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Money is not where its at

Well I am broke..whats up with that right?
I have been a broke for about 17 years now :) and I can tell you really, money isn't important. We need it to live, basic stuff, but really isn't it more important to have fun and be with those you care about?

I must confess my biggest sin is jealousy. I have an uncle who carts all over the world, Australia, Alaska, etc. He has never asked me, my mom or aunt to go with him on any of these excursions even though he knows we would love to and hes got the dough. By the way he is my Godfather. So needless to say I am a bit jealous. Hes the type to send that empty Christmas card if ya know what I mean ;)
So Lord forgive my jealousy today, Forgive him for only visiting my mom to brag and never bringing her anything from these trips even though she would love that. And please don't let me find out he visited Italy without me or I am gonna hit the roof! LOL!
I am blessed beyond belief, 2 healthy kids, a hard working husband, and a roof over my head, oh and air conditioning which is worth its price in gold in the summer :)

Do you suffer from jealousy? If so its ok the Lord forgives, lucky for me!

God bless!

Sunday, April 26, 2009

The Cry of the Poor



Lyrics to Cry of the Poor

The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
Blessed be the Lord.
1. I will bless the Lord at all times,
with praise ever in my mouth.
Let my soul glory in the Lord,
who will hear the cry of the poor.
2. Let the lowly hear and be glad:
the Lord listens to their pleas;
and to hearts broken, God is near,
who will hear the cry of the poor.
3. Ev’ry spirit crushed, God will save;
will be ransom for their lives;
will be safe shelter for their fears,
and will hear the cry of the poor.
4. We proclaim your greatness, O God,
your praise ever in our mouth;
ev’ry face brightened in your light,
for you hear the cry of the poor.

Listen to this song..and pray..truly pray for the poor
The poor and suffering have always been on my mind..not those kids who don't
have all the tv channels or a cell phone but the truly poor, hungry, orphaned children in the world. What can we do?
Give what we can
Pray
Fast
Be good to all those we meet
Keep kindness in our hearts and on our lips
And know someday..all will be ok

God bless
Amy

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

The Sun did not set that day

I wrote this to describe my car accident, I am glad to have made it through. I get a chance to someday meet those friends..you know who you all are :)
Thank you for your prayers


Driving along the eternal highway
Moving on, doing things my way
At my left the car comes toward me
I turn my wheel, in despair to flee



Broken glass shatters, Is this the end?
I didn't get a chance to meet all my friends
I am still here, He ain't done with me yet
I still have time to contemplate my regrets

My days are not over, I've got a chance
To cherish my life and not live in a trance
To change my ways from dull to bright
And give this life one hell of a fight

At times I would have welcomed the end
But that was foolish thought, full of sin
We are here for a reason, don't ever forget
Glad it wasn't my time for the sun to set

by Amy

Sunday, April 19, 2009

Trust Issues

I put my trust in only One
The One who is God's only Son
It seems hard to trust in mankind
Don't know why, wish my life I could rewind...

To find out when I lost hope in humanity...
So many caught up in sheer vanity
There are a few I'm lucky to know
Dear sweet souls whose love they bestow

They go about the world with true compassion
Not caring that being shallow seems to be in fashion
I'm blessed to share with these folks I've never met
Unveiling my heart, for this I don't regret

We all have trust issues
So spare me the tissues
No need for tears
Forget those childish fears

Lift them up to the Lord
They rest upon His sword
Our trials He does see
Someday we will be Free!

by Amy

Friday, April 17, 2009

The 84th Floor is not so Cool

This is a poem I wrote a while ago, when I was inspired just a moment in time, to write poetry, and share my heart with the world. I have about 20 poems which I will share on my blog in time. Here goes... The 84th floor is not so cool
Up in the Penthouse On the 84th floor
Is life any sweeter?more rooms to explore?
A tall skyscraper scraping the sky
If I climb to the top can I touch the clouds? Can I try?
The building is majestic, regal, and tall
Like a castle from a far away land, I gaze in awe
Where life is so fancy, never dull, so bright
I ask the doorman "How do I climb up there tonight?

"There are no stairs, no elevator, I'm confused!
He says "that's for you to figure out" I can tell he was amused
So I went to sleep hoping the answer would come in a dream
Then it hit me like a Laser moonbeam
I'M AFRAID OF HEIGHTS! This realization is quite profound
I can see everything is cool right here on the ground

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Back to Work

Well I go back to work after a long time recouping from the car accident and have enjoyed being here for the family but tomorrow is my first day back. Time just flies by when you are busy working and taking care of a family. Busy with kids, laundry, fixing dinner, cleaning..it can overwhelm and make me loose track of whats really important and thats worshipping God. We all need to remember to take a step back from all the worries and enjoy every moment in life and our family cause it can all go in the blink of an eye. I count my blessings every night. I am thankful God has given me more than a second chance..this car accident being just one of those many second chances.

I know God wants us to be accountable for the direction we take in life, to make the right choices according to His will and plan. Sometimes I lost track of that and just went through the motions of life without really living life. We are here for a reason. The Almighty is in charge. All I can say is "Jesus, take the wheel"!!

God bless!
Amy

Sunday, April 12, 2009

Happy Easter

I want to wish everyone a Happy Easter. Easter Vigil Mass was beautiful last night. Jesus paid the ultimate sacrifice for us and I thank Him!

I was cantor last night and was quite nervous but I did my best. I love the candlelight and the music and most of all I love seeing people initiated into the Church! The ham is in the oven and I am preparing for a nice day with family, going to see my mom and aunt, and just hanging out. Mark has to work today which is a bummer but hopefully he will enjoy a nice dinner when he gets home. Its cold this morning..about 40 degrees..chilly for April!

Thats ok with me I am not looking forward to the hot summer. This house heats up big time in the summer but someday I will get central air conditioning in here :)

Hopefully I will get down to the shore a couple of days this summer if my neck and shoulder get better. Right now I am in a lot of pain from the car accident but its getting better. Please keep me in your prayers.

What are your plans for Easter? Let me know what fun you had!
Hugs,
Amy

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Catholic Everyday not just Sunday

I must say living here so far from city life is tough in a few ways. The Catholic Church in town is a mission and doesn't have Religion classes for the kids so I have to travel 45 min to St. Joseph's which I love that Church by the way, but its quite a haul especially if I want to go to things like Holy Day Mass, Holy Week, etc. Thats 1 and a half hours in the car with 2 teenagers..who like to whine about the drive by the way. I do wish we lived closer but for now we are here. Not to mention Music Practice, Catholic Daughter meetings, etc. I like to be involved with the Church but I have to remember its ok to go to Mass at the Church in town too, if I can't make it to my beloved St Joe's :)
One plus is that St Josephs is really close to my mom and I visit her every Sunday anyway so its not out of the way for that. I wish I lived close so I could hear the Church bells ring, hear the hymns the bells play and just be Close to the Church which is like Home to me. So St. Joseph remains my home Church, and I can go to St. Lukes in town when I can't make it.
I Cantor a few times a month at St Joseph's also which I love to do!
How far do you travel to Mass or Church, do you have a beloved Church which you travel a distance for?

Earthquake in Italy

Please pray for the folks who were in the earthquake and their families in Italy. I pray the Lord is with them in their sorrow. Please pray the Rosary for these dear souls.

Monday, April 6, 2009

My favorite things

Some of my favorite Mama splurges..hey Mama deserves a break!
Dunkin Donunts Iced Coffee..better than Starbucks
Decaf coffee in the evening
That automatic shower cleaner..really cool!
especially since I was injured ..quite a cleaning help since I can't do much right now.
Iced tea on a hot day
Scented Candles
Bubble Baths
Long Walks during the sunset
Long talks on the phone with an old friend
Getting together for a movie with an old friend
Romantic date with my husband
Today I got the folder with all the information for my son to apply to a great Catholic prep school. It is quite expensive but I am going to apply for financial aid and Alex is writing a letter to the archdiocese to see if we can get a grant also due to Alex's call for a religious vocation. Hopefully next year he will be getting dressed up every day in his tie and khakis and sport jacket :)

Teresa begged me to stay at the local public school and since the closest Catholic Middle school is 45 min from the house she will stay in public school for middle school but we also would love for her to go to the Catholic prep school for high school because it is a great school and 100% of those kids go to college or the military. Good odds I must say. I will have to sacrifice a lot but I think it will be worth it in the long run.

Keep us in your prayers for this new journey into the Catholic School system!

Friday, April 3, 2009

April Showers

I can't believe Easter is almost here. It has been 2 1/2 months since my car accident and the physical therapy is going well and I will be back to work after Easter God willing.

Easter is a time of joy, new beginnings, and hope.

The weather is warming up and there are many spring showers in the air.

Take time to smell the flowers in your busy day, connect with friends and loved ones, and enjoy every moment!

God bless!
Amy

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Spring to Life

What a joyous day
I felt the suns ray
A kaliedescope of colors
Each one different from the other

I felt alive, beautiful and free
Worries of this world far from me
Really living not just breathing
My soul awake, my heart starts beating

by Amy

A Poem by me

THE DANCE
The wind blows a cool and mysterious breeze
Like a sense of wonder that brings you to your knees
At awe of the universe, at peace at last
Looking to the future and away from the past

A chance to finally rise up and shine
You feel that you finally have a sign
of what is to come and you fear not
because your troubles you already forgot

So why do you feel that nagging resistance
As if you don't believe in your own existance
Across the desert, across many miles
lies the answer, you have been looking for a while

So keep on walking, the water is near
The sea is wide, full of endless tears
Many came before you, many will follow
Your soul has depth, it is no longer hollow

So finally feel the emotions that cascade
Let happiness embrace you and sorrows fade
In the Lord you were wonderfully made
Enjoy the sunrise and the cool shade

Of the Lord, He will protect you now
Even if you have no idea how
Keep on walkin child.. your gonna be alright
Just ahead a refreshing waterfall is in sight

Don't you worry that you chose the wrong path
Feelin like the world has hit you with its wrath
A better day will come child, listen to my word
They have been spoken many times, but have not been heard

So listen to them now, let them guide your way
It will all work out... come what may
So do the best you can here and dance your sweet dance
Your reward will be in heaven, You only have one chance

by Amy
A poem I wrote..from the heart