Rome_is_Home

Welcome to the Catholic Church

2012-02-01T16:33:00.000-05:00

20th wedding anniversary!

2012-01-08T15:25:00.002-05:00

Today is our 20th year wedding anniversary!
Spending a quiet day at home hubby is watching football playoffs, went to evening Mass last night and slept in this morning. Its a nice lazy sunday we aren't goin anywhere but home is the best place, home with our kids and pets and where its nice and warm.
Blessings to you!
Amy

New Year!

2012-01-02T21:24:00.003-05:00

I have not been on much but thought I would give a quick update about whats new. Our son Alex is majoring in social work in college and has put his ideas for the priesthood on the back burner for now which is ok for me it seems he may be called to the married life which makes me just as happy. Teresa is enjoying being a freshman in high school this year and her and her friends have been having fun changing their hair color just about every month (fire truck red was the recent color) which drives me crazy but my husband says to pick my battles. Thank goodness no piercings or tatoos lol. Christmas was good we were all together but it was a frugal one the economy has taken its toll on us 2011 has been really tough but hopefully 2012 will be easier on us I miss being home and have been working soooo much. Mark and I have been married 20 years on Jan 8th. God has been with us over the years and the kindness of strangers has got to be the one thing that amazes me. I remember a while back Mark needed a tire for the car a few years ago and we didn't have the money till payday we were gonna just put it off and drive on the bad tire and take our chances and then out comes the auto mechanic and says the bill was taken care of by someone from a church that overheard the dilemma. This person was in the waiting room of the auto shop and was gone before Mark could even thank him. Thats an angel on earth. God bless whoever that was and when I can I intend to pay it forward and maybe I can help someone..if ever we can get to. For now life is a struggle just to put gas in the tank and food some weeks I don't know how to make ends meet but all these years being married have made me pretty good at pinching a penny when I have to. One thing is the coupons have not been as good and not available for stuff I buy which is basic food its always coupons for expensive prepaired stuff it seems. I say its because of that extreme coupon show that has made the companies cut back even though most of us couponers are not at all like that. How has your grocery shopping changes with the economy? Do you still do coupons? One store I like is Aldi but its not open late when I shop (I like to shop after I get off work which is late shift) and I am just tired and like someone to help bag my groceries (Aldi is bag your own warehouse type deal) so I just shop the circulars for the best specials and go for whats on sale. If it aint on sale I aint buying it. God bless you and yours in the new year!

Andrea Bocelli- Con te Partiro

2011-11-06T23:35:00.000-05:00

Teresa's October Snowman!

2011-10-30T20:38:00.002-04:00

Here in South Pennsylvania, right on the Maryland boarder, we had a ton of snow, like 8 inches! A lot has melted today but yesterday Teresa made this cute snowman, she says its a snow girl lol, anyway, its a tiny one now, melted a lot but is super cute :)
October snow is a historic record for the amount we had!

David A Vogel - March For Life

2011-10-08T23:25:00.000-04:00

Dear Jesus

2011-10-08T22:29:00.004-04:00

When the world has got you down and it seems there is no one else around.Look up and there you will find the Man who is always waiting with an open hand! He is the only one who can understand. Dear sweet Lord Jesus is His name :) He takes away our shame, His spirit is like a warm flame, If we call out to Him, the world can change!
When life gets tough just put on your boots and soldier on better days are always ahead :) What doesn't kill us makes us stronger :)

Sleepytime thoughts

2011-10-06T23:49:00.004-04:00

Our little Dog Monica having a nice nap :)
Before U sleep, just gently lay
Every troubled thought away;
Drop your burden & your care
In the quiet arms of prayer.
Sleep in Peace, Remember GOD is awake

Long time without a post.

2011-10-06T01:41:00.007-04:00

Life has been busy and I have not taken the time to post in forever, So I thought I would have a little update. Alex graduated from high school in June, and took off to Philadelphia for 2 months to work and live independent in with his friends and thankfully is back home now and is planning to enter college this January for a degree in Social work. The priesthood is still a possible option but he is going away to college for 4 years and he will make his mind up and I am happy for him either way. The college he is going to is 50 min from our home so that makes me happy he isn't going to far. Teresa started high school and is enjoying teenage life and work is busy as always still wishing I wasn't there so much of the week. My mom fell and is recouping so we are praying she heals well.

God Loves All His Creatures... Dogs Included ツ

2011-07-26T23:56:00.000-04:00

Our Princess graduated middle school!

2011-06-09T14:23:00.002-04:00

And off to high school next year! She is happy summer has started and its time for fun in the sun! Look at that smile :)

Crockpot Chicken Stroganoff

2011-05-29T22:42:00.002-04:00

1 lb frozen chicken breast
1 container sliced mushrooms
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 packed onion soup mix
1- 16 oz tub sour cream

Place frozen chicken breast and mushrooms in the bottom of the crock pot. Mix remaining ingredients and pour over. That is it!

Cook on low for about 6-7 hours. Stirring hourly so the sauce doesn’t stick and burn.

You can shred the chicken in the pot with the sauce right before serving it over egg noodles and steamed broccoli. You can use any type of noodle

Recipe from faithful provisions website..looks good I am gonna try it soon!

Teresa is 15!

2011-05-16T00:12:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday to my baby girl Teresa who just turned 15 on May 14th! The Lord has something special in store for her life and she my sweet girl! Here are a couple of photos of her on her Birthday.

Josh Groban - You Are Loved (Don't Give Up) [HQ]

2011-05-10T23:46:00.000-04:00

Stand up for the Christian Life!

2011-05-01T20:14:00.000-04:00

My fellow Christians, I support you and want to remind you all of one tough thing especially now in this day and age of such impure and liberal media such some of what is on the internet and television..It is quite impossible to live the life of a Christian and not offend someone by doing that which is right! In fact, the scriptures presume that many are going to be offended by the teaching and preaching of the gospel. Jesus offended people by telling them the truth ( Matthew 13:57, 15:12); Jesus even offended his own disciples ( John 6:61)!

Yet not once did Jesus apologize for telling the truth. In fact, in Matthew 15:12, after his disciples told him that the Pharisees had been offended by him, he said, "Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. Let them alone: they are blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch" ( Matthew 15:13-14).

The Bible is clear about the fact that when we stand for truth, we will offend people. The truth of God’s word stands as a solid rock that does not change whether times are good or times are bad

When a Christian believer does anything it should be based on scripture. His or her every area of life should line up with Gods word including speech.

1 Peter 3:15-16 says that we need to prepare to give answer:But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.

So as Christians we should not be afraid to warn people about the dangers unrighteous movies, music and other media which portrays improper lifestyles such as improper jokes, etc, and dress or appearances that are not associated with Godliness. (immodest dress)

The disciples offended many, were put in prison and were killed for their bold testimony, but they also won many to God. When people are not walking according to Truth, they will seek ways to make truth fit their foolish decisions and justify their actions. When someone teaches that we can sin because Jesus has paid for all sins, chances are that they have a sinful habit that they are clinging in to and need to justify.

It is the responsibility of every Christian to seek and know truth for themselves so that they can be thoroughly equipped for every good work and have true intimacy with God as they learn to conform to the example of Jesus Christ. Bible convicts men of their guilt. Its up to us to lead them to the Truth, Amen!

In Christian Love,

Amy

"Oh my God" Jars of Clay, take a moment, listen to the words, and pray for the world

2011-05-01T18:59:00.001-04:00

If you are Pro Life read this the Pro Life voice must be heard

2011-04-20T10:55:00.001-04:00

A pro-life group that monitors the use of cells from babies victimized by abortions is today highlighting a biotech company, Senomyx, which it says produces artificial flavor enhancers using aborted fetal cell lines to test their products.

The group Children of God for Life is calling for a public boycott of major food companies partnering with Senomyx.

Debi Vinnedge, the director of the pro-life organization, tells LifeNews.com today that, in 2010, her group wrote to Senomyx CEO Kent Snyder and pointed out that moral options for testing their food additives could and should be used. But when Senomyx ignored her letter, the group wrote to the companies Senomyx listed on their website as “collaborators” warning them of public backlash and threatened boycott. They included food giants PepsiCo, Kraft Foods, Campbell Soup, Solae and Nestlé. (See update below.)

“The company’s key flavor programs focus on the discovery and development of savory, sweet and salt flavor ingredients that are intended to allow for the reduction of MSG, sugar and salt in food and beverage products,” the Senomyx web site says. “Using isolated human taste receptors, we created proprietary taste receptor-based assay systems that provide a biochemical or electronic readout when a flavor ingredient interacts with the receptor.”

Vinnedge says a boycott is important because the collaborating companies provide Senomyx with research and development funding plus royalties on sales of products using their flavor ingredients.

“What they don’t tell the public is that they are using HEK 293 – human embryonic kidney cells taken from an electively aborted baby to produce those receptors,” she said. “They could have easily chosen animal, insect, or other morally obtained human cells expressing the G protein for taste receptors.”

Vinnedge says she has contacted the food companies working with Senomyx, but said it took three letters before one company, Nestlé, finally admitted its relationship with Senomyx and company officials claimed the line of cells from abortions was “well established in scientific research”.

Both PepsiCo and Campbell Soup also responded.

PepsiCo wrote: “We hope you are reassured to learn that our collaboration with Senomyx is strictly limited to creating lower-calorie, great-tasting beverages for consumers. This will help us achieve our commitment to reduce added sugar per serving by 25% in key brands in key markets over the next decade and ultimately help people live healthier lives.”

Related Links

Children of God for Life
Campbell Soup officials told the pro-life group: “Every effort is made to use the finest ingredients and develop the greatest selection of products, all at a great value. With this in mind, it must be said that the trust we have cultivated and developed over the years with our consumers is not worth compromising to cut costs or increase profit margins.”

While Campbell Soup didn’t state they would change their methods, their response, gave Vinnedge hope.

“If enough people voice their outrage and intent to boycott these consumer products, it may convince Senomyx to change their methods,” she said. “Otherwise, we will be buying Coca-Cola, Lipton soups and Hershey products.”

UPDATE: Within hours of its press statement to LifeNews.com, the pro-life group received notice from Campbell Soup that the company has severed its ties with Senomyx. Juli Mandel Sloves, Senior Manager of Nutrition & Wellness Communications at Campbell Soup Company, told Vinnedge, “We are no longer in partnership with Senomyx. This fact was discussed during the Senomyx conference call with its investors earlier this month.”

ACTION: Contact the companies at:

Kent Snyder, CEO
Senomyx
4767 Nexus Centre Drive
San Diego, California 92121

Edmund M. Carpenter, CEO
Campbell Soup
1 Campbell Place
Camden, NJ 08103-1701

Paul Bulcke, CEO
Nestlé USA
800 North Brand Boulevard
Glendale, CA 91203

Jamie Caulfield, Sr.VP
PepsiCo, Inc.
700 Anderson Hill Road
Purchase, NY 10577

Irene Rosenfeld, CEO
Kraft Foods/Cadbury Chocolate
Three Lakes Drive
Northfield, IL 60093

Mr. Torkel Rhenman Chief Executive Officer
Solae
4300 Duncan Avenue
St. Louis, Missouri 63110
Source: www.lifenews.com

Economy!

2011-03-30T23:06:00.002-04:00

Its what we hear about in the news, the Economy, have you felt the pinch in your everyday life? My family has. We feel the struggle just to get by and pay the bills and still put gas in the car and food on the table so I am trying to do all I can to save money. A few things I am doing: Never driving unless its to work and Church or if I need to go to the kids school or doctors. No extra trips or visiting friends unless I am in that area, so Sundays when we go to Mass we do our "visiting" visit my mom, meet friends for coffee to catch up once in a while, etc. Thats the day I do the grocery shopping or I also grocery shop after I get off work at the store near my work. The kids get to enjoy all our errands on Sunday lol, and we have a tradition of getting 1 dollar ice cream cones at baskin robins (I gave up ice cream for Lent but I always get a beverage :) On my days off, (I work 4 10 hour days to save gas money) I stay home. The kids have got used to this and know not to ask to go anywhere as we live 15 min from town. In doing this we get more time together at home which is actually great. Also there are several grocery stores in the town that I work and go to Church so I used to just shop one store but now shop sale items at each one and try to use coupons at the one that doubles the coupons. The stores I enjoy have websites which are www.foodlion.com and www.giantpa.com and also a great place to stock up on basics is www.aldi.com at that place you bag your own groceries but the savings are amazing. A loaf of bread is like 79 cents. I got a bag of apples for 1.99 :) A half pound of sliced checdder was 1.79 or so. No sales all Aldi's brand which is actually very good quality. I try to turn off lights of course we have heard of this time and lower the thermostat in the cold months. What are you doing to battle this economy and high gas price era we are in?
I would love to hear your tips to save money!
God bless,
Amy

Loudest Cat Purr in the world, this cat is too cute

2011-03-24T15:04:00.001-04:00

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Harry Stewart - End Of My Journey Remix

2011-03-19T23:43:00.002-04:00

\
when people say the don't believe in God, because of all the hardship this life brings ...believe just believe in Him cause we will understand it, better by and by...at the end of our journey...life is hard, so hard, don't give up...keep on going..till the end...till He calls you home and then its all gonna make sense, this hard life will become a glorious one

Our cat Tony sunbathing by the door

2011-03-03T20:28:00.003-05:00

Tony is trying to stay warm this winter :)

My daughter Teresa's painting!

2011-02-13T20:09:00.002-05:00

She is my talented girl

Prayers for my teenagers, in trying times, as in trying my nerves lol!

2011-02-12T23:10:00.001-05:00

Thoughts become words, words become actions, actions become habits, habits become character, character becomes destiny...will we do the right things when no ones looking, even if its the hard thing, because its who we are, because its right?
This is my one wish for my children..to be a good person..for this world..to secure their true ...destiny in this world..my little prayer tonight...

Praying that they understand actions speak louder than words and that they will understand wisdom comes with time and to listen to their elders!

St. Valentine

2011-02-09T00:47:00.002-05:00

Historical factsNumerous early Christian martyrs were named Valentine.[5] The Valentines honored on February 14 are Valentine of Rome (Valentinus presb. m. Romae) and Valentine of Terni (Valentinus ep. Interamnensis m. Romae).[6] Valentine of Rome[7] was a priest in Rome who was martyred about AD 269 and was buried on the Via Flaminia. His relics are at the Church of Saint Praxed in Rome,[8] and at Whitefriar Street Carmelite Church in Dublin, Ireland.

Valentine of Terni[9] became bishop of Interamna (modern Terni) about AD 197 and is said to have been martyred during the persecution under Emperor Aurelian. He is also buried on the Via Flaminia, but in a different location than Valentine of Rome. His relics are at the Basilica of Saint Valentine in Terni (Basilica di San Valentino).[10]

The Catholic Encyclopedia also speaks of a third saint named Valentine who was mentioned in early martyrologies under date of February 14. He was martyred in Africa with a number of companions, but nothing more is known about him.[11]

No romantic elements are present in the original early medieval biographies of either of these martyrs. By the time a Saint Valentine became linked to romance in the 14th century, distinctions between Valentine of Rome and Valentine of Terni were utterly lost.[12]

In the 1969 revision of the Roman Catholic Calendar of Saints, the feastday of Saint Valentine on February 14 was removed from the General Roman Calendar and relegated to particular (local or even national) calendars for the following reason: "Though the memorial of Saint Valentine is ancient, it is left to particular calendars, since, apart from his name, nothing is known of Saint Valentine except that he was buried on the Via Flaminia on February 14."[13] The feast day is still celebrated in Balzan (Malta) where relics of the saint are claimed to be found, and also throughout the world by Traditionalist Catholics who follow the older, pre-Second Vatican Council calendar.

While sending cards, flowers, chocolates and other gifts is traditional in the UK, Valentine's Day has various regional customs. In Norfolk, a character called 'Jack' Valentine knocks on the rear door of houses leaving sweets and presents for children. Although he was leaving treats, many children were scared of this mystical person. In Wales, many people celebrate Dydd Santes Dwynwen (St Dwynwen's Day) on January 25 instead of (or as well as) Valentine's Day. The day commemorates St Dwynwen, the patron saint of Welsh lovers. In France, a traditionally Catholic country, Valentine's Day is known simply as "Saint Valentin", and is celebrated in much the same way as other western countries. In Spain Valentine's Day is known as "San Valentín" and is celebrated the same way as in the UK, although in Catalonia it is largely superseded by similar festivities of rose and/or book giving on La Diada de Sant Jordi (Saint George's Day). In Portugal it is more commonly referred to as "Dia dos Namorados" (Lover's Day / Day of those that are in love with each other).

In Denmark and Norway, Valentine's Day (14 Feb) is known as Valentinsdag. It is not celebrated to a large extent, but is largely imported from American culture, and some people take time to eat a romantic dinner with their partner, to send a card to a secret love or give a red rose to their loved one. The flower industry in particular is still working on promoting the holiday. In Sweden it is called Alla hjärtans dag ("All Hearts' Day") and was launched in the 1960s by the flower industry's commercial interests, and due to the influence of American culture. It is not an official holiday, but its celebration is recognized and sales of cosmetics and flowers for this holiday are only exceeded by those for Mother's Day.

In Finland Valentine's Day is called Ystävänpäivä which translates into "Friend's day". As the name indicates, this day is more about remembering all your friends, not only your loved ones. In Estonia Valentine's Day is called Sõbrapäev, which has the same meaning.

In Slovenia, a proverb says that "St Valentine brings the keys of roots," so on February 14, plants and flowers start to grow. Valentine's Day has been celebrated as the day when the first work in the vineyards and in the fields commences. It is also said that birds propose to each other or marry on that day. Nevertheless, it has only recently been celebrated as the day of love. The day of love is traditionally March 12, the Saint Gregory's day. Another proverb says "Valentin – prvi spomladin" ("Valentine — first saint of spring"), as in some places (especially White Carniola) Saint Valentine marks the beginning of spring.

In Romania, the traditional holiday for lovers is Dragobete, which is celebrated on February 24. It is named after a character from Romanian folklore who was supposed to be the son of Baba Dochia. Part of his name is the word drag ("dear"), which can also be found in the word dragoste ("love"). In recent years, Romania has also started celebrating Valentine's Day, despite already having Dragobete as a traditional holiday. This has drawn backlash from many groups, reputable persons and institutions[42] but also nationalist organizations like Noua Dreaptǎ, who condemn Valentine's Day for being superficial, commercialist and imported Western kitsch.

Valentine's Day is called Sevgililer Günü in Turkey, which translates into "Sweethearts' Day".

According to Jewish tradition the 15th day of the month of Av – Tu B'Av (usually late August) is the festival of love. In ancient times girls would wear white dresses and dance in the vineyards, where the boys would be waiting for them (Mishna Taanith end of Chapter 4). In modern Israeli culture this is a popular day to pronounce love, propose marriage and give gifts like cards or flowers.

!source: Wikipedia, thank you Wikipedia :)

Groudhog day

2011-02-02T23:55:00.003-05:00

The groundhog says and early spring but I would like to be snowed in with the family how bout you?

Time Flies! One Song Glory - Adam Pascal Live (Official Video)

2011-01-19T22:53:00.000-05:00

Time Flies

2011-01-19T21:54:00.007-05:00

The house is getting quiet, The kids are growing fast
The pitter patter of little feet is a memory of the past
I miss those days of laughter and joy and innocence of youth
When my babes were sweet and kind and just so very cute

Now its time for a new chapter, a new season of my journey
I pray that it holds good memories and not so many worries
Its has been oh so tough just to keep afloat
I am ready to charter new waters in this brand new boat

One kid off to college, one in high school soon
I am going to cry my eyes out when he graduates in June
The nest is getting empty, What am I gonna do?
I don't know how to knit or sew.. I haven't got a clue

Where did those years go anyway, the memories are so clear
Like they were just yesterday I will always hold them dear
I pray they listened to me about the important stuff
Maybe I didn't cover everything I hope I said enough

About life and love and being kind and living for the Lord
and living by the law of God I hope this struck a cord
All we can do is hope and pray and send them on their way
And just sit by patiently, they will be back again someday

My daughter be kind, gentle and true and graceful and polite
My son be strong and wise and sweet and love with all your might
I pray this world is good to you and all your dreams come true
But no matter what life brings I am always here for you!

by Amy

rockstar

2011-01-14T15:35:00.001-05:00

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

for my husband Mark

2011-01-14T15:32:00.001-05:00

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

The Band Perry - If I Die Young this song is beautiful

2011-01-07T09:00:00.000-05:00

I'm a stay at home mom, for 2 weeks :)

2011-01-03T17:26:00.002-05:00

Work is slowing down and I have been there 10 years this year so I am going to take some of my vacation time starting Jan 9th till the 22nd so my plans are to do some house cleaning, cook every night for my family and enjoy doing what I wish I could do which is being a stay at home mom and being there every day when the kids get home from school. We are predicted to get some great snowy weather here in the 10 day forcast so with any luck the kids will have some snow days for us to enjoy. I will also not miss putting gas in the car at like $3.10 a gallon. I am blessed to have this time with family and will even get another great week like this in the summer although its harder to get time off at my job in the summer (many people take off for vacations so its harder to get that time approved). Due to finances we will once again not be planning any away vacation, its just too much with the price of gas and boarding 2 dogs so we will hopefully do some fun things around here nearby in Pennsylvania and Maryland. I still believe a womans place is at home (unless your Sarah Palin becuase we need her as president lol) if at all possible and I hope you understand I would not be working if it weren't necessary for basic bills. God bless and enjoy your families they grow up all too quickly! Alex goes to college next year this Christmas I had tears of joy and of pain because I know he is about to start his own life but isn't that what its all about..letting the baby birds fly to their destiny! :)
Love to all!
Amy

Cool things about Christmas

2011-01-01T22:21:00.002-05:00

My Christmas tree this year!
The one about Xmas is very interesting! I have always hated when people put Xmas instead of Christmas and always will, but here is why it started....
Xmas
This abbreviation for Christmas is of Greek origin. The word for Christ in Greek is Xristos. During the 16th century, Europeans began using the first initial of Christ's name, "X" in place of the word Christ in Christmas as a shorthand form of the word. Although the early Christians understood that X stood for Christ's name, later Christians who did not understand the Greek language mistook "Xmas" as a sign of disrespect.

More interesting things...
The Christmas Tree
The Christmas Tree originated in Germany in the 16th century. It was common for the Germanic people to decorate fir trees, both inside and out, with roses, apples, and colored paper. It is believed that Martin Luther, the Protestant reformer, was the first to light a Christmas tree with candles. While coming home one dark winter's night near Christmas, he was struck with the beauty of the starlight shining through the branches of a small fir tree outside his home. He duplicated the starlight by using candles attached to the branches of his indoor Christmas tree. The Christmas tree was not widely used in Britain until the 19th century. It was brought to America by the Pennsylvania Germans in the 1820's.

Christmas Lights
The appeal of the Christmas light is often likened to the starts in the sky, or the glisten of freshly fallen snow in the moonlight. Early Christmas lights were not quite as safe as today's light strings. Candles were used in trees inside the home, and lit in windows. Hot flames and live trees were not the safest mix, but the temptation to add lights to Christmas decorating was too strong to curb. Many factors have contributed to the widespread use of Christmas lights, including lighting contests promoted by manufacturers, war propaganda using holidays as an opportunity to bond the nation, and local celebrations across the country to try and start traditions of hope and peace. Light strings are now found in all shapes, sizes, and colors, as well as in cool-to-the-touch LEDs.

Poinsettias
Poinsettias are native to Mexico. They were named after America's first ambassador to Mexico, Joel Poinsett. He brought the plants to America in 1828. The Mexicans in the eighteenth century thought the plants were symbolic of the Star of Bethlehem. Thus the Poinsettia became associated with the Christmas season. The actual flower of the poinsettia is small and yellow. But surrounding the flower are large, bright red leaves, often mistaken for petals.

The Date of Christmas
The idea to celebrate Christmas on December 25 originated in the 4th century. The Catholic Church wanted to eclipse the festivities of a rival pagan religion that threatened Christianity's existence. The Romans celebrated the birthday of their sun god, Mithras during this time of year. Although it was not popular, or even proper, to celebrate people's birthdays in those times, church leaders decided that in order to compete with the pagan celebration they would themselves order a festival in celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Although the actual season of Jesus' birth is thought to be in the spring, the date of December 25 was chosen as the official birthday celebration as Christ's Mass so that it would compete head on with the rival pagan celebration. Christmas was slow to catch on in America. The early colonists considered it a pagan ritual. The celebration of Christmas was even banned by law in Massachusetts in colonial days.

Mistletoe and Holly
Two hundred years before the birth of Christ, the Druids used mistletoe to celebrate the coming of winter. They would gather this evergreen plant that is parasitic upon other trees and used it to decorate their homes. They believed the plant had special healing powers for everything from female infertility to poison ingestion. Scandinavians also thought of mistletoe as a plant of peace and harmony. They associated mistletoe with their goddess of love, Frigga. The custom of kissing under the mistletoe probably derived from this belief. The early church banned the use of mistletoe in Christmas celebrations because of its pagan origins. Instead, church fathers suggested the use of holly as an appropriate substitute for Christmas greenery.

Happy New Year!

2010-12-30T20:20:00.010-05:00

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ೋ~ ~I wish you a Happy New Year!~~ ೋ
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Top of the World

2010-12-21T15:17:00.002-05:00

Its always a white Christmas at the top of the world, Alaska! Watch this awesome video of the Hallelujah from the remote village of Quinhagak Alaska! I have had a big heart for Native americans and Native Alaskans for a long time (I am 1/4 Seminole Native American) and would love to go to Alaska to help with Catholic Missions. Maybe someday this dream will come true I pray especially for the Native Alaskans every day as the harsh conditions of cold but they have endured and embraced their land for so many generations they amaze me! Beautiful people. Enjoy this unique video and feel free to leave a comment and pray for those in need in the villages :) Thanks!

Trans-Siberian Orchestra - Christmas Canon Rock

2010-12-11T02:03:00.000-05:00

Advent! :)

2010-12-06T00:14:00.003-05:00

I hope everyone has had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Its already the 2nd week in advent I can't believe it. Alex turned 18 on the 1st of December and Teresa is 14 now so everyone is so independant. I will put up some pics of the Christmas tree soon and have been super busy with work and the kids and cherishing every moment till Alex goes to college next year I am not looking forward to my boy going out into the world. My kidney issues are much better praise God and I am back up to speed and looking forward to a busy and fun Christmas season!
God bless!
Amy

the whole picture

2010-11-07T23:30:00.002-05:00

Well I can't believe its almost Thanksgiving and the season of Advent is coming up quickly! At Cantor practice at Church we practiced the upcoming Advent music and it is going to be a special and wonderful time of year. My son Alex turns 18 this December 1st also, legal age of an adult but he will always be my baby. Here is a recent pic of him, he is really growing up to be a fine man. He is smiling in this pic but the bottom pic will tell you why hes so happy, the whole picture if you will ;)

Happy kid huh? He is contemplating the priesthood and this in not his girlfriend, just a good friend from school :) But he does seem quite happy lol!

You never know the whole story till you can see the whole picture, so true in life!

Kidney infection grrrr

2010-10-19T15:09:00.002-04:00

Please keep me in prayer the doctor put me off work till Oct 22nd to try to heal a drug resistant kidney infection and I am told to stay put in the house and try to get well. I have been battleing it since Sept 20th. I was 1st seen in the Hospital, then twice at the doctors, this is round 3 of antibiotics, if this doesn't work I need to see a urologist to see whats wrong with the kidneys, they have ruled out everything else, cat scan done, blood test, some kind of dye test in vein, drank weird stuff to see my insides, everything and it keeps coming back as kidney infection. I am feeling much better than sept but still having kidney infection symptoms and urine test coming back with infection last one done last tues. Thanks so much for prayers, just a bit worried about it all but glad that I'm not in the hospital :) I will let you know how I'm doing!
ps..starting round 4 of antibiotics for 10 days today, levaquin this time..getting better still not 100 percent though. Thanks for all your prayers!
It turns out I am boarderline diabetic so now its crunch time for diet changes, no sugar .. :(

Eat, Pray, Love is new age garbage

2010-09-05T23:10:00.002-04:00

I can't believe the country is blowing money on the book and now movie called Eat, Pray, Love. This story is based on a women leaving her husband to go run around the world and commit adultry, get involved in eastern religions and eat. The only sinless thing in that story is the eating part. I eat, pray and love every day of my life. As a Catholic I enjoy the best gift, the Eucharist to feed my soul. He (or she) who eats His flesh and drinks His blood shall have eternal life in Him! Jesus gives us Himself, flesh and blood, in the Eucharist which is real love.
I love my family every day, my husband, children, mother, friends and pets :)
I pray every day, and enjoy God bounty in food, coffee, tea, and fresh clean water which I thank the Lord for everyday and keep in prayer those who don't have these precious gifts and pray my small monetary gifts of what I can afford and those of others will reach those in need. So wake up America, this ain't entertainment!
God bless You!

Early Frugal Christmas Ideas..103 of them!

2010-08-07T22:42:00.003-04:00

OK I am a Christmas nut, I start really thinking about it around Nov 1 lol!
Here is a cool list of some great sayings to put on cards with some super frugal gifts that say I love you to your friends and family!
Cute, cheezy, and just plain fun!
1. M&M's - "Have a Merry and Most wonderful Holiday Season!!"

2. Soup or soup mix - Wishing you a "Souper" Holiday Season!!

3. Frozen or ready to bake pizza - "Warm up to a wonderful Holiday Season
Topped" with Christmas cheer!"

4. Apples and Hershey's Hugs - A teacher can't live by apples alone...She
needs "Hugs" too!!

5. Popcorn Balls - Hoping you have a "Ball" this Holiday Season!

6. Loaf of Bread - For being there when you were "Kneaded", for "Rising" to
the occasion, large or small. For never "Loafing" on the job, for helping
others to "Heel" with TLC. No matter how you "Slice it", you do a terrific
job loving Others. Merry Christmas!!

7. Jolly Ranchers - Have a Holly"Jolly" Christmas!!

8. Rootbeer - We're "Root"ing for you to have a Happy Holiday Season and a
Wonderful New Year!!

9. Chex Party Mix - Remember Santa "Chex" his list twice to see who's been
naughty or nice...so be good for goodness sake!! Merry Christmas!!

10. Box of Hostess Ho-Ho's - Hope a merry "HO - HO - H0" fills your heart
the whole year through! (Put a Santa sticker on the label)

11. Wire Wisk - (Filled with Chocolate kisses) "We WHISK you a Merry
KISSmas!!"

12. Jar of Jelly - jelly is like love - you can't spread it around without
getting some on yourself! Merry Christmas!!

13. Christmas Tray - We "Tray"sure your friendship! Merry Christmas!!

14. Bell - With each chime of this festive bell, may a Christmas wish come
true. And bring you peace and happiness to last the whole year through!
Merry Christmas!

15. Yule Log - "We send you warm greetings this Christmas Season!!"

16. Potpourri - "May this sweet scent bring back thoughts of warm
Christmases long ago!" Merry Christmas!

17. Cleaners - "You add sparkle and make our life brighter!" Merry
Christmas!

18. Nuts - "We're nuts about you!" Merry Christmas!

19. Lifesavers - " You've been a life saver!" Have a great Christmas!

20. A juice pitcher filled with candy canes- "We pitcher you raising a
little "cane" during the holidays!" Have a merry Christmas!!

21. Broom - You're "Dust" the finest neighbors we know! Merry Christmas!

22. Paper Towels - "Blot out your troubles; absorb the Christmas Spirit!"

23. Measuring Cup or Glass Measure - "Wishing you Joy Beyond Measure!

24. Bananas - If we could choose our friends, and we searched the whole
world through, we'd go bananas trying to find a better bunch than you!!"

25. Any Star ornaments - "Remember the reason for the season!"

26. Chocolate Mousse Mix - "Merry Christmousse" to our "Deer" Friends!

27. Wooden spoon - Whether stirring up cakes, cookies, soups or soufflés;
You'll find this spoon useful in so many ways. But whatever it's use, it
says, "Merry Merry Christmas from us to you!"

28. Flower - "If friends were flowers, we'd pick you! Happy Holidays!! Or
"You make friendship bloom all year round!"

29. Heart Christmas Ornament - "May the Joy and Love you give away, come
back to you on Christmas day!"

30. Cinnamon Sprinkles - (Cinnamon & Sugar, or cookie sprinkles) "May your
Christmas be sprinkled with laughter and love!" Merry Christmas!

31. Hershey's Hugs - "A friend always knows when you need a little hug!"

32. Christmas music CD or Tape - "May the sweet song of Christmas make your
heart rejoice!" Or "May the merry sounds of Christmas bring a Joyful Melody
to your holiday season" Merry Christmas!!

33. Filled Basket - "Wishing you a basket full of Christmas blessings"

34. Salsa - "Add a little Spice to your Holidays!" Merry Christmas!

35. Stocking or filled Jar - "Have a fun filled Christmas this year!"

36. Lamb - "Have "eweself" a Merry little Christmas!!" ( not sure about this one anymore )

37. Candle - "May your days be happy, your heart be light, your Christmas
merry and the New Year Bright!!

38. Holly - "Happy Holly days!"

39. Calendar - "Keep Christmas in your heart the whole year through!"

40. Shaped Sugar Cookies - "Rolling out a batch of Christmas Cheer, for
Someone we think is very dear!!"

41. Cherry 7-up - "Just a Little Christmas Cheer from Happy Hearts this time
of year!! Merry Christmas!!"

42. Sparkling Cider - "Wishing you a Sparkling Holiday Season!"

43. Warm Casserole or Bread - "Bundled up with warm wishes!!"

44. Popcorn or Carmel Corn - "Just "Popping" by with a Holiday Hi!" Or "May
your Holidays be Poppin'!"

45. Seasoning Mix - "Seasoned with Love" Merry Christmas!!

46. Eggbeater - "Have an "Eggstra" Special Holiday!!"

47. Hershey's Hugs and Kisses - "Christmas Hugs and Kisses to You " Or
"Holiday Hugs and Kisses to you!"

48. Apple Pie of Apple Crisp - "Wishing you a Scrumptious Christmas!"

49. Fruit Basket - "May your New Year be Festive and Fruitful!!" ( make your own )

50. Any Sweet Treat - "Wishing you a season filled with sweetness!"

51. Oranges - " Orange" you glad we're Friends!?" Merry Christmas!!

52. Chocolate Orange - "Orange" you glad it's Christmas? Hope your Christmas
is a Sweet one!

53. Sprite - " May your Christmas be Merry and Sprite!"

54. Ice Cream Snowballs and Hot Fudge - " Here's some packaged"snowball"
treats - Just Drizzle Hot Fudge and its ready to eat!...Enjoy!!" ( easy to make if you need directions let me know )

55. Snicker Bar - "Don't "Snicker", just be glad you got Something!!"

56. Mints - "Friends like you are worth a Mint!!" Merry Christmas!!

57. Matches - "No one Matches you as neighbors!" Merry Christmas!

58. Strainer - (With a Christmas bow) " We couldn't restrain ourselves from
wishing you a very Merry Christmas!!"

59. Box of Light Bulbs - "Have a bright and radiant Christmas"

60. Bubble Gum or Bubble Bath - "May your holidays "Bubble" over with fun!!

61 Pencil and Notepad - "Merry Christmas from our pad to yours!!" or Merry
Christmas to a "noteworthy" friend!"

62. Jar of Pickles - "Just in brine, Our wish for a merry Christmas!!"

63. Grater and Cheese - " To a Grate Neighbor! Merry Christmas!"

64. Ice Cream - "Have a "Cool" Yule!!"

65. Bear shaped Honey - "Have a Bear Sweet Christmas!!"

66. Santa - "Ho - Ho - Hoping your Christmas is Heavenly!"

67. Angel - "Hoping you have a Heavenly Christmas!!"

68. Eggnog - " Have an "Udderly Moovalous" Christmas!!" ( got a great recipe)

69. Gingerbread House - "Nibble, Nibble like a mouse, We hope you'll nibble
at this house!" Merry Christmas!!

70. Mugs with Hot Chocolate Mix - "To our special friends who are so Dear,
We wish you all a cup of Cheer!" (One Mug would be a special gift for a
Teacher. "To a Special Teacher dear, wishing you a "Cup of Cheer"!"

71. Cocoa Mix - "Wishing you a warm and wonderful Christmas!"

72. Muffins or Muffin mix - " You're getting "Muffin" for Christmas!!"

73. Gum - "By Gum, You're a great Neighbor!! "Have a Merry Christmas"

74. Veggies and Dip - "Dip into a wonderful Holiday season and a Healthy New
Year!"

75. Christmas Shaped pasta - ( Or any Pasta and a bottle of Sauce ) " Have a
Pasta-tively Happy Holiday!"

76. Jar of Jam - "Hoping you have a Holiday "Jammed" packed with fun!!"
"Have a "Berry" nice holiday season!!" Or "Hoping your Christmas is
"Jam-packed" with Christmas Cheer!!"

77. Cookie Dough - "Here's a little extra "Dough" for Christmas! Or
"Everyone Needs a little extra "Dough" for Christmas!!"

78. Homemade Frozen Rolls - "Here's a little holiday treat. Rise and bake,
it can't be beat! Warm fresh rolls just for you. Top with butter that's all
you do! Warm Holiday Greetings to you"

79. Brownie Mix - (Or any Mix) "Whip up this mix for a wonderful holiday
fix! Wishing you a "rich" Holiday Season!!" (Be sure to attach the recipe!)

80. Homemade caramels - Hoping you have a "Rich" and "wonderful" Holiday!!"

81. Pie - "Just a "Holiday Hi" and a tasty Pie!! Happy Holidays!!"

82. Divinity - "May your Christmas be "Devine" and your Holidays so Fine!
Sweet Christmas Wishes!"

83. Rice Krispie Treats - "Snap, Crackle, Pop" We think You're really Tops!

84. Toffee or Brittle - "Any way you break it, We think you're the
greatest!"

85. Fudge - "Fudge" a little on the calories and enjoy the Holiday Season!"

86. Cheese Ball and Crackers - "We don't mean to sound "Cheesey", we just
hope you have a "Ball" this Holiday Season! Or "Spread a little Christmas
Cheer this Holiday Season!"

87. Apple Anything - (Pie,Cobbler, crisp, muffins etc.) "Sending you a
"Bushel" of love this holiday Season!!" Or " You are the apple of my eye,
Teacher!"

88. Banana Bread - "Banana Bread just for you, because you have so much to
do... We also love you a whole "Bunch" too! Merry Christmas!"

89. Cinnamon Rolls - "Here's a sweet treat "Rolled" up with warm Holiday
Wishes! Merry Christmas!"

90. Homemade Chocolates - " You're so Sweet...having you as neighbors is
really a treat! Have a Heavenly Holiday Season!"

91. Cake or Cupcakes - "You take the "Cake" neighbor, We think you're first
rate! Happy Holidays to you!!"

92. Cornbread or Mix - "We're not trying to be "Corny" we just want you to
have Merry Christmas!"

93. Carrot Cake - " I Really "Carrot" a lot about you!! Merry Christmas"

94. Spiced Drink Mixes - " Hoping your Holidays are "Spiced" Just right!"

95. Homemade Ice cream of a Frozen Treat - "Here's the Scoop,,,,Hoping your
Holidays are a "Blizzard" of fun!"

96. Recipe - "Just like you friend...it's tried and true, just for you!
Happy Holiday Baking or Merry Christmas Cooking!"

97. Pizza - "Hope your Holiday has a touch of "Pizza - z!!" Merry
Christmas!!"

98. Candle - "You Light up my Life!" Thanks for your friendship! May your
Christmas be Merry and Bright!"

99. Crayons and Coloring Book - Hope your Holidays are Colorful!

100. Plant - " The kindness you show makes our friendship grow and grow!
Hope you have a Happy Holiday!!"

101. Soda Pop - "I'd "Soda" like to wish you a merry Christmas!

102. Stuffed animal - (Beanie Baby) "Pawsing" to wish you a Merry
Christmas!"

103. Donuts - "Donut" you know we love you??? Have a happy Holiday!

Hot topics

2010-08-04T23:04:00.003-04:00

Hows your summer going? Its goin by fast for us, no vacation this year but hopefully we can get to the beach next May for a beach birthday for Teresa. The kids have band camp coming up and my Alex is working at the grocery store with his daddy so my little guy and big papa are both hard at work this summer. Teresa is enjoying walking Monica and having a lazy dazy summer.

I follow a blog which is of a conservative Christian family and they believe in conservative dress and the girls in the family wear dresses and skirts. What do you think of being a full time dress/skirt wearer. I think its a pretty good idea and I do agree with the feminine roll of being a wife and mother, and I do feel more lady like when I wear a skirt or dress but here is the but....at work I am so much more comfy in pants but its something to think about and even pray on. Traditionally us Catholics don't follow any particular "dress code" which is all to apparent in the mini skirts and shorts I see at Mass but I would love to hear your thoughts on this topic. I know some traditional Cathoics do adhere to a more conservative dress even going to the all skirts, dress rule but i have never met any in my area.

Another topic is weight loss. I do not agree with all the weight loss surgery and doctors who are willing to re route peoples perfectly good insides for weight loss. I know sometimes it is necessary and helpful but doctors are awful ready to cut and slice these days even on people who are just a little about 200 pounds. Are they mad!
I could stand to loose weight but I think the key is just being as healthy as possible and accept what ever body the good Lord gave us even if its a heavy one. I have a cat named Tony and he is one big fat ass cat. He has never asked me for weight loss surgery even though I jokingly said "that cat needs gastric bypass" LOL!
I would rather die fat and happy that skinny, hungry and wrinkled :)
So pass the pizza, and the salad while your at it. I still think its all about balance. I like NAAFA, check them out sometime, they are about fat acceptance.
Even my doctor I see for arthritis agrees with losing weight slowly and by eating veggies, fruits and whole grains and lean meats. He never nags me about my weight God bless him, he knows I try and give up, and try try again to be healthy. :)
Gotta love a good doctor who is supportive and accepting of a larger patient. I am still singing at Mass and the other Church has a priest so our dear priest Father Chris is back to serving just our parish yay!

Peace, love, and God bless!
Amy

Summer updates

2010-06-26T01:32:00.002-04:00

Can't believe its the end of June and summer is upon is. It's been really hot here like over 95 every day, ahhh I like the fall better lol!
Our priest at Church has been working double time running 2 churches and saying Mass at both of them so I pray that the other Church will find a priest soon so Father Chris can get a break from all the rush. I am singing a lot this summer while other Cantors are on vacations and stuff. No vacation this year but maybe we will do some fun stuff this summer hopefully. Just busy getting by these days. We are really enjoying the 2 dogs and here is the most sweet pic of Monica before she got her hair cut ;)
Hope your summer is grand!

tick tock ..waiting up for teenagers!

2010-06-10T23:13:00.003-04:00

Its 11:13 and I am waiting up for our teenage son to get home from his friends graduation party at outback steakhouse. I can't believe how time flies!
His best buddies have graduated and he will graduate next year!
I can't believe he is 17 I want to freeze time and make the next year last forever don't know how I'm gonna handle that boy going off to college. He is a good kid, called ant told me hes on his way home! I guess I did something right. I hope :)
Time flies like the wind blows.........

Chronic Pain?

2010-06-03T22:38:00.003-04:00

I was in a car accident January 15th 2009 and since then have been in chronic pain in my neck, shoulder and back. Aside from taking medication the only thing that helps in relaxing in a hot bath and taking it easy. It has changed my life a bit I no longer wish to do anything involving walking and I even shop at stores that have the least walking and just really want to be home..especially on the days I work all day. Not cause I am lazy but because I am in pain. Its a bummer but I live through it. I have changed my schedule to have 2 days of work, 2 days off, 2 days of work, then sunday off so that has helped instead of having one long week in a row. Do any of you reading this have chronic pain? How do you deal? Are you family and friends understanding? It can be isolating to stay at home so much but I am no longer worried about hanging out with friends or going to the mall. I do still love Church and singing and am still a cantor but aside from work and going to Mass and visiting my mom (and I really don't want to be at work lol!) I just want to be home where I can be the most comfortable and take care of my family. Home sweet Home is ok with me.

my daughter Teresa's Mothers day gift.

2010-06-02T03:15:00.005-04:00

This is the poem my dear princess gave me for mothers day!
Isn't this the best!
She found this on the internet somewhere and put it in a card for me and changed the words a bit :)
(and she still doesn't have any odd piercings (previous debate!) thank the Lord and turned 14 on May 14th this year. She had a great birthday video game party :)
Here is the poem

My mother kept a garden
a garden of the heart
she planted all the good things
that gave my life its start

She turned me to the sunshine
and encouraged me to dream
fostering and nurturing
the seeds of self esteem

and when the winds and rain came
she protected me enough
her constant good example
always teaching me right from wrong

makes for my pathway
that will last a life time long

I am my mothers garden
I am her legacy
I do love her!

author unknown with a little added comment from my girl Teresa!

Please pray for the families in Alaska especially fellow bloggers the Wilkinsons at Simple Living Alaska

2010-05-27T23:14:00.003-04:00

Please pray for this family and all families affected by the forest fires in Alaska. Here is a like to the Wilkinsons blog, they are strong believers in Christ and I pray for them please join me in prayer for them!
Cut and paste like below to see their blog:

http://simplelivingak.wordpress.com/2010/05/

Mother Teresa Words of Wisdom

2010-04-25T23:17:00.003-04:00

I don't know whats wrong with people in this world but some are wonderful and some are so lost. A perfect stranger encouraged me and made my day by saying my singing in Church ministered to her and she thanked me for singing. Wow! ministered? Just singing the hymns of old made her day and she made mine. On the other hand a family member and I talked about getting together for my daughter Teresa's birthday and her immediate response was " I am not buying gifts for any adults but Teresa will get a gift" and I am cutting out Christmas gifts as well...I NEVER mentioned getting her a gift! I told her I want no gift for me or my kids just being together is all I want!..hence reminding me of the "ulterior motive" verse Mother Teresa spoke of here about being kind and some will accuse you of ulterior motives. Why can family be so vicious and friends and strangers be angels...what a paradox!
Anyway I hope this family member knows I want nothing but the love of extended family and I have had a hard enough life without her accusation of me being greedy which I am soooo NOT!
grrr.! This family member (extended family) does not know the Lord which explains alot also so I pray she open up her heart and I feel a real need to pray for her even though she has hurt my feelings on many other occasions.
God bless Mother Teresa in Heaven!
Here are her wise words...

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

____________________________

Funny little artist man :)

2010-04-07T14:22:00.002-04:00

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

to Mom..bunny cakes and smiles

2010-04-05T10:30:00.008-04:00

I cherish the memories of Easters past
Never realized that time goes so fast
Memories of your good times, going through my mind
I have tried before but the real you I cannot find

You gave up hope but I have not
You dont even realize what you have got
Family who cares, friends who are distant
Wish you knew the worth of your existence

Your grandkids do love you, now their almost grown
I hope you can feel the care they have shown
Like winter to spring someday you will awaken
But those stolen years, can't get back what was taken

But I ponder those good times of bunny cakes and smiles
Glad we shared them, when I was a young child
So I shall lock away those precious times, forever in my heart
To hold dear what was, and look forward to a new start
by amy

My daughter Teresa on Easter day visiting her grandma, my mom.

My mom has schizophrenia so every holiday we visit I hope she shows some happiness but yesterday all I saw was apathy so it got me a little down so I wrote a poem, wishing things were different and hoping and praying for a moment that she may get back some of herself in the future. For a while she was doing good, playing bingo and crafts but has been doing worse latley (she is in a care home). I am busy raising a family and working so I don't ponder on the situation much, like the prayer says "accept that which you cannot change" but once in a while I send my prayers up for her.
This song reminds me of her situation ..

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T09:32:00.005-04:00

Happy Easter!

Easter Vigil was beautiful and it is so amazing how the symbolic darkness to light is really how it is with God, He dispells the darkness and His son Jesus gave us hope and forgiveness. As I was sitting on the alter last night and singing the Litany of the Saints I felt the Lord was with us and one think kept going through my mind..don't take for granted one single moment in life with family because it all goes by so quick. Just a moment we were in a blizzard and now this tuesday the high temp is going to be 84 already! Time flies truly. So I don't want to take for granted a moment we have in this life to life it the right way. I used to take for granted my life but no more. Much love and blessings this Easter to you and yours!
Oh, and the Easter bunny still visits my teenagers with baskets of candy :)
I think the bunny still loves them and will for as long as I have a say in it! :)

Prayers needed I am cantor for Easter Vigil!

2010-03-17T22:23:00.002-04:00

I was the cantor last year for Easter Vigil and I have been requested to sing again and this made me sooooo nervous last year but I guess I did ok "gasp" and am going to sing again this year. The room for error is great this is some difficult stuff especially for me the country girl to pronounce all those saints..take a look at the lyrics that have me a shakin' in my boots!!
LITANY OF THE SAINTS

Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.
Christ, have mercy. Christ, have mercy.
Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Verse 1. Mary and Joseph, pray for us.
Michael and all angels, pray for us.
Anna, Joachim, Elizabeth, pray for us.
Elijah, Moses, John the Baptist, pray for us.
Isaac, Sarah, Abraham, pray for us.
Jacob, Joseph, Samuel, pray for us.
Ruth, David and Solomon, pray for us.
Isaiah, Jeremiah, pray for us.
All you holy men and women, pray for us.

Verse 2. Peter, Paul, Andrew, pray for us.
James, John, and all apostles, pray for us.
Mary Magdelene, Veronica, pray for us.
Barnabas, Matthias, pray for us.
Stephen, Philip, and Cornelius, pray for us.
Prisca and Aquila, pray for us.
Timothy and Titus, pray for us.
Linus, Cletus, and Clement,pray for us.
All you holy men and women, pray for us.

Verse 3. Lawrence and Chrysogonus, pray for us.
Innocent, and Boniface, pray for us.
Hippolytus and Origen, pray for us.
Athanasius and Basil, pray for us.
Felicity, Perpetua, pray for us.
Cosmos and Damien, pray for us.
John, Chrysostom, and Justin, pray for us.
Lucy, Agatha, and Agnes, pray for us.
All you holy men and women, pray for us.

Verse 4. Jerome and Eusebius, pray for us.
Scholastica and Benedict, pray for us.
Ambrose, Monica, Augustine, pray for us.
Martin and Gregory, pray for us.
Clare, Francis, and Dominic, pray for us.
Francis Xavier, Ignatius, pray for us.
Elizabeth and Catherine, pray for us.
Louis and Wenceslaus, pray for us.
All you holy men and women, pray for us.

Verse 5. Lord, be merciful, save your people.
From all evil, save your people.

Please pray for my voice as I have been struggling with sinus issues all season and have had colds as well!
Thanks so much and hope I do ok !

hope I don't get any comments like this little kitty below! LOL!!!

God bless!
Amy

Fish Filet Fridays

2010-03-07T15:11:00.003-05:00

Well I must admit Fridays are such a treat for me cause I usually go to Mc'D's for a nice fish sammie :)
Not really giving up much since I love em so much they are sinfully good so I prob shouldn't have em during Lent but they are fish so why not right :)
Here is the too funny commercial
Oh and here is the latest discussion at my house
My daughter who is 13 wants to get a lip ring..Lord help me!
Please comment and tell her why thats not such a good idea!
Have a blessed Lent

Gimmie back that filet o fish
gimmie that fish!
what if it was you hanging up on this wall
if it was you in that sandwich you wouldn't be laughin at all!!
haha

the real me

2010-02-15T21:51:00.002-05:00

This pic is of me and a few friends when we went to out for coffee. They had some cool folks playing their music that day so here is a poem dedicated to music.
I have been shy to put up recent pics of myself due to my weight so in the past I posted thinner pics and have gotten chubby over the past couple years but its no reason to hide so here is the real me..picture and 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

The Dance

2010-02-12T20:37:00.001-05:00

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

Supermarket Lifestyle?

2010-02-09T14:27:00.002-05:00

My friend Sharon sent me an email about how sometimes when she is at the store she will ask a fellow shopper where something is and even if they don't know they usually try to help find it. On the other hand if she asks a store employee where something is they know exactly where to find it. Much like life. Sometimes we search in all the wrong places for the answer instead of going to Father God for his guiding hand in our lives. This is simple and honest truth that sometimes we all forget. My friend Sharon is a wise lady.

Its funny cause we have had a lot of snow here in PA and I have been to the supermarket before each storm and both times a fellow shopper came up to me and asked it I knew where something was. Yesterday when I was in Walmart someone asked me if I knew where the boulion was and I said prob in the soup isle but didn't know for sure :)
Today someone asked if I knew where the vinigar was when I was at the grocery store and I said I had no idea but prob where they kept the mustard and ketchup.LOL I either look friendly enough to approach for these folks or they perhaps just think I know where everything is cause I am a bit chubby :)
lol!
I suppose I will try to think of it as a compliment and choose to think I look like a friendly and chubby housewife which is fine with me!
We are expecting another foot of snow today on our already 20 inches from the weekend so I was at the store yet again getting greenbeans, salad mix, coffee, ground beef and pet supplies. Oh and of course toilet paper and milk and bread!
Just like any good Pennsylvanian we stock up, cause who knows if the roads will get plowed for days. I enjoy this hunkering down and staying home. I like to pretend I don't ever have to go back to work when I am off, makes it fun that way, of course untill I have to go back to work.
Life is good!
Keep safe in the storms! God bless!

Blizzard!

2010-02-06T13:57:00.007-05:00

Its Feb 6 and today and yesterday we have had mega snow where I am at!
Its about 2 feet!
I have some snow photos to share!
:) Monica has the right idea..taking a nap with the remote on the couch!

Francis likes to play in the snow!

check out my front porch!!!
Glad to be snowed in and no power outage yet which is good!
I just found out all Masses are cancelled this weekend so no Church so I will not even venture out for that!
I am so happy to have some more quality time at home! Glad I don't have to go to work today either ;)
Every day should be a snowday! No more work just more snow yay!
Happy joy!

Diets?

2010-01-20T22:07:00.005-05:00

http://www.washingtonian.com/articles/health/1749.html
(Link to diet article)
copy and paste into webpage :)

I read this interesting article which talks about the fact that 95 percent of people who loose weight "find it" again. I have tried to loose weight and like the article says, the only time I have ever kept it off is when I counted every calorie and weighed myself ever day. I know the drill, excercise, eat right, get sleep etc..but its interesting how we are set up for failure on these diets. I need to get on a diet but just aren't ready to climb that mountain ...again!
Funny how the weight I loose always finds me but I can't find my lost eyeglasses!
Amazing!
Oh to heck with it pass me the chips ;)

God bless and hope you are enjoying the new year. I am finally back from being quite ill and ready to keep up the good fight once again.
On a sadder note lets all keep praying for Haiti give what we can!
hugs,
Amy

Cats and their meeting at the heat vent

2010-01-10T14:41:00.001-05:00

I am home still sick and couldn't make it to Mass because of the lovely side effects of the antibiotic called biaxin which is doing its job against my strep throat and bad sinus infection but is taking its toll on my tummy so I am still stuck inside but ventured out to the market to get some bread and a few essentials (like ice cream)this afternoon. I feel a little guilty about missing Mass cause I went to the store but it was a quick trip and I really don't think I could take the long drive to Church and back with my tummy troubles. Just thought I would share a little of my Catholic guilt about missing Church. Anyway, when I got up this morning the 3 cats were all hanging out at the heat vent staring at it. I was wondering if maybe they heard a mouse because they were all bug eyed and intent. I think they were just really cold lol! They kind of looked like this cartoon pic I found on photobucket :)
Its been fun being a housewife this week and even though I am sick I have enjoyed the time with the family. The kids are playing video games together which is cool, they are having some fun playing more than I usually let them. Its freezing cold so they can't go outside for long! I am happy to hear their laughter and cherish every moment especially cause Alex will be a SENIOR in high school NEXT YEAR. I am going to go through some serious empty nest syndrome when that boy goes to college. Its back to work for me on Tuesday so I get to hang out one more day at home tomorrow. I thank God for everyday cause it all could have been taken from me, when I had my car accident. And I am sorry for all the times I was depressed and not paying attention to what I had and focused on problems instead of blessings, I pray the Lord forgives me for all past transgressions. I know Angels have intervened on my behalf in my life and I thank God for them. They come in the form of a friend,who pointed out how life is a gift, or in the form of the cop who knocked on my car window at a red light and warned me about putting on my seat belt just 15 min. before I was in a fatal car accident. My husband Mark in an angel, who sometimes doesn't express it but shows his love is quiet ways like bringing me home an iced tea when I am sick, or just calling to ask if I am ok. My kids are my angels, and so are my pets. And you are an angel to me for reading this and being my friend (Stacey!).
Sending love,
Amy

18 YEARS!

2010-01-07T11:20:00.000-05:00

Thats right!
Tommorow is our 18th year wedding anniversary!
I can't believe it!
I was married soon after I turned 17 and my groom was all of 18!
We had a cartoon character sheet cake with a cartoon bride and groom for our wedding cake, ordered by my mom cause I know she thought it was just a big joke..but...
no joke!
We are still together and finding each other all over again.
The last 10 years have been pretty awesome, seeing Teresa go from 3 to 13 and Alex go from 7 to 17! Just think of all those changes in those 10 short years. In that time we have lost a pet, and adopted a few :), we have watched these kids grow up and pray they take good values out into the world and remember to be kind first and formost! A lot of those years have been eaten up with overtime, commuting, shopping, errands, so it makes me remember to cherish the time we are together as a family. Mark works days and I work midshift, we both work weekends so our days off together are rare so I will steal whatever moments I can to be alone with my hubby even if it just a trip to the store. I was just telling him that the next 10 years will be hard I am sure but wonderful as well as our extended family is aging and we really need to get to florida, alabama, alaska, and south carolina to see them all, money is our barrier so all we can do is hope for those future trips and make sure our prayers are with the family we don't get to see too often. My mom seems to be getting more mellow in her old age :) she is pretty easy to get along with (did I say that..:O )
I can't thank the Lord above enough for my opportunity to be on this earth and have a chance to live the life he meant for me. I don't love my job its true, but I love my family and thats what counts at the end of the day. I am home this week with a bad sinus infection so I have time to think for once and catch up on stuff at the house. The antibiotic I am on makes me nausious and can't rest so I have been watching alot of tv and reading alot here online. I have decided to stay away from the myspace/facebook scene, just too much drama on there for me, and I will stick with my blogging, which is basically just my online diary for myself and a few close friends and my daughter who loves to read my little musings. I wonder whats in store for the next 10 years? I pray your next year and next 10 for that matter are amazing, superfabulous, and fantastic!
Sending love,
Amy

SNOW!

2009-12-19T19:57:00.001-05:00

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!!

Why Christmas is AWESOME!

2009-12-04T07:16:00.000-05:00

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!

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]

"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

Blessings!

2009-11-25T00:13:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving time, turkey time!
Are you thankful? What is Thanksgiving about?

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

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

What Wonderous Love is This?

2009-11-15T01:50:00.000-05:00

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.

What I am thinking about

2009-11-09T22:13:00.000-05:00

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 :)

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.

God bless and have a great November :)

Don't forget to eat your fruit and hug the cute :)

Shoutout for my friend Stacey

2009-10-29T01:20:00.001-04:00

Your team is rockin girl!!!!!

Ode to Yuppies

2009-10-29T00:37:00.000-04:00

Yuppies

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

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

The end

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

Pro Life voice needs to be heard!!!!

2009-10-25T17:34:00.000-04:00

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...

The most amazing story I have ever heard!

2009-10-07T20:57:00.000-04:00

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

Pretty little Church

2009-10-05T22:17:00.001-04:00

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

Where are we going?

2009-09-28T23:51:00.000-04:00

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 ..
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!

Have you experienced this?

2009-09-15T01:43:00.000-04:00

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!

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!

My daughter..Navy bound?

2009-09-12T15:17:00.001-04:00

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.

Life is sometimes stranger than fiction

2009-09-03T21:09:00.000-04:00

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

Cool post from Stacey :)

2009-09-01T20:22:00.000-04:00

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

Updates

2009-08-20T17:55:00.000-04:00

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!

Job interview tomorrow!

2009-08-13T22:44:00.000-04:00

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" :)

Be well and God bless!

Jesus our Lord

2009-08-07T02:21:00.000-04:00

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..

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.

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

Mother's Prayer

2009-08-07T02:12:00.000-04:00

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 :)

Seen any good movies recently?

2009-07-31T00:26:00.000-04:00

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 :)

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

2009-07-22T22:40:00.000-04:00

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

Ok upon much worry and pondering....

2009-07-21T00:33:00.000-04:00

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!

FOR YOUR PRAYERS

Alex is going to the Catholic high school

2009-07-06T10:34:00.000-04:00

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

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

Whats new?

2009-06-23T04:17:00.000-04:00

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?

I met my Sister and Brother!

2009-06-02T01:04:00.000-04:00

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!

Catholics come Home..we are waiting :)

2009-05-22T22:59:00.000-04:00

Depression...NOT!

2009-05-20T22:21:00.000-04:00

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

The Ascension of Our Lord, Holy day of Obligation

2009-05-17T04:33:00.000-04:00

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 :)

Happy Birthday to my little girl

2009-05-17T04:30:00.000-04:00

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" :)

Meeting my half brother and sister again!

2009-05-06T14:31:00.000-04:00

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 !

Where I am coming from

2009-05-03T22:09:00.000-04:00

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

Join the Sane

2009-05-02T00:53:00.000-04:00

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

2009-05-02T00:51:00.002-04:00

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

2009-05-02T00:51:00.001-04:00

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

2009-05-02T00:46:00.002-04:00

The Happy Strum of the Guitar in the Night!

2009-05-02T00:46:00.001-04:00

Life is Music! Poem

2009-04-30T00:14:00.001-04:00

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

Can't believe my Teresa is turning 13!

2009-04-29T23:35:00.000-04:00

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!

2009-04-29T00:11:00.000-04:00

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!

Money is not where its at

2009-04-28T08:32:00.000-04:00

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!

The Cry of the Poor

2009-04-26T02:49:00.000-04:00

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