Put the kettle on Bella Nonna have I got a story to tell you!
Bernadette, it is 3:00 am!
I know Bella Nonna, I am sorry to wake you so early but I can’t sleep. I am too… blah… how can I describe it? I’m upset, guilty, excited, shook-up, and pissed-off… AACK my adrenaline is pumping so fast. I ran all the way here.
Okay Bernadette calm down I will make us some… I can’t think straight…decaf, definitely something decaffeinated. It is 3:00 in the morning… you do know most people are asleep at 3:00 am.
You ran here?...In all this snow? It’s snowing, you do know it is snowing?
Yes, yes I know but wait until you hear what just happened to me. You sit down and I will make the tea. Do you mind if I get something to eat? All this excitement has given me such an appetite.
No dear, help yourself.
Bella Nonna, you know how you hear stories of people being able to lift cars off of their love ones, scale a five story building to rescue someone from a burning building and swimming through raging currents to rescue a drowning person. I was always a little skeptical about the real facts. I believed people possess the ability to do extraordinary things when faced with a crisis, but to have the strength of thousands... I didn't think so.
Well this morning at 2:15 am I became a true believer in that fact. My guys were all sound asleep in their beds and it had been snowing for over two hours. I had just finished folding the last load of laundry. As I sat there watching the snow fall, enjoying all the peace and quiet, I thought of poor Patrick having to shovel all the snow off the walk and his car before going into work. So I decided to shovel the walkway down to the car before going to bed.
I took the laundry upstairs and checked on the children to make sure they were all safe and sound in their beds.... you know my kids, they have a habit of escaping from their beds and ending up under someone else.
You don’t have to tell me Bernadette… I remember frantically searching for Bridget for over fifteen minutes last year when I babysat for you. I no sooner got her back to sleep and the twins disappeared out of their beds and I found them asleep under your bed.
I am sorry for giggling Bella Nonna… I know how frightened you were. We should have warned you.
Okay back to my story. I donned my hat and gloves and headed out to shovel the walkway. I left the front door slightly ajar so I could hear if one of the kids got up... wait, my father just sat bolt upright in bed. He is screaming at my mother, “Saints preserve us Elizabeth that child of ours is heating the whole outside!” I had the kerosene heater on low in the living room to keep the house warm... besides our bedroom windows let out more heat than that.
Bernadette!... a lit kerosene heater in the house… unattended! Sorry I think I just channeled your mother. Go ahead with your story.
Where was I? Oh yeah, I was shoveling away and every fifteen minutes or so I would pop my head inside to check on things. I had been at it for an hour and was just about to quit when I saw Timmy standing in front of the living room window. As I was scurrying up the walk to the front door, Timmy slammed it shut. My heart leapt into my throat when I heard him push the dead bolt closed. At three and a half years old, Timmy has the ability to close the dead bolt but lacks the ability to OPEN the dead bolt.
"Timmy," I pleaded, "Push the latch up."
"What Mommy?"
"Turn the leaver up!" I screamed.
I could hear Timmy's playful giggles from behind the door. I peeked in the front window and could just about see Timmy by the door. I also spied the kerosene heater still on inside our fake fireplace. I started to panic inside.
"TIMMY, GO GET DADDY FOR ME!" I screamed.
"Daddy 'leeping," Timmy happily informed me.
"I know honey... WAKE HIM UP!" I called, still trying to keep my eye on Timmy from outside the front window.
I saw Timmy head up the steps to get Patrick. I waited for what seemed like an eternity... no Patrick or Timmy. I started to panic... I HAD to get Patrick up. I threw a snowball at our bedroom window... nothing. I threw some pebbles... nothing. I threw a rock at the aluminum siding that was around the window near his side of the bed... STILL NOTHING! I ran back to the front door, pounding and screaming for Patrick. I looked in the front window, no Timmy...I ran around the side of the house to look in the dining room window, no one. I ran around the back of the house and pounded on the kitchen door, nothing. I ran back around to the front of the house... more pounding and screaming. Frantic, I started heaving huge clumps of dirt at my nice clean bedroom windows. With every thwack of the massive clumps of dirt that hit the windows, one of the snowflake decorations I taped to the window fell ... still nothing. Somewhere between the fifth or sixth clump, I looked up and saw Timmy standing at the front window laughing with delight at my antics. As I approached the front window, Timmy took one of the throw pillows off the couch, spun around and flung it at the window. Totally delighted with himself he proceeded to get another... despite my frantic pleading, "GET YOUR DADDY NOW! DO YOU HEAR ME?
This was it... do or die time! Something had to be done. If he missed the window and the pillow hit the heater... I'm getting palpitations just thinking about it.
I had to get Timmy away from the front door so I bribed him. I told him to go get Maggie and Bridget. I said they would like to have fun too and that I would make hot chocolate for all of them when I got back inside. I told him to run as fast as his little legs could carry him and get them for me now.
I watched as Timmy scurried up the steps and with one mighty blow I busted the door open! It swung back against the wall so hard that the doorknob punched a hole in it. Wood, bricks and plaster covered the floor. I had ripped the doorjamb completely out of the wall. As I stood there surveying the damage, the girls came running down the steps.
"Mommy... what happened?" Maggie asked wide-eyed looking at the mess on the floor.
"What the H... is going on down there?" Patrick bellowed from our bedroom.
"It's just me. I got locked out and had to break in the door," I nonchalantly replied.
"Oh, okay... tell the kids to keep it down. I have to go to work tomorrow."
I told Patrick that he should call off work today because we have a little problem with the front door.
"Problem," Patrick mumbled as he headed down the stairs.
He stood at the foot of the steps, blinking in disbelief. "What happened?"
I explained how I was shoveling the walkway and got locked out. Timmy woke up and I tried to wake him up to let me in. The kerosene heater was on and I was afraid Tim might get hurt.
I could see Patrick’s nostrils start to flare. I thought he was about to blow his top so I went into hyper mode.
I stared straight at him and in my best you don’t want to mess with me voice I said, “I tried my best to wake you... just look at our bedroom windows and you'll see how hard. I know you heard me!"
Patrick didn't say another word. I'm not sure if he was in shock, still half asleep or scared to death of me... I did just Kung Foo in a solid wooden door!
"Look, the dead bolt worked, it is still locked," I nervously giggled. “Wouldn't this make a great commercial?"
Patrick just kept staring at all the rubble. I didn't know whether to laugh or cry… so I made hot chocolate for everyone and cleaned up most the debris while Patrick went to the garage and got a huge piece of plastic to cover the gaping hole left by the missing doorjamb.
Thankfully we are able to close the door. I tucked everyone in bed again and tried to go to sleep but I just can’t... you would think having the strength of thousands would take a lot out of a girl...but I feel like I could climb a mountain.
Oh my goodness Bernadette, it sounds like you had quite a night. I am so relieved that everyone is alright. Is the house warm enough? Do you need any help with the house or the children?
Everything is fine for right now. The hole is sealed up and everyone was asleep when I left. I feel a little guilty that I woke you up.
Don’t give it another thought. I will just chalk it up to my learning another life lesson. The next time someone tells me they do not believe a person could possess the strength of a thousand people; I will tell them your story.
And if they don’t believe you, just send them down to me… I will have the repair bills to prove it!
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Friday, January 15, 2010
Never Say Diet
Welcome back. I hope you had a wonderful holiday season.
Everyone at Harmony Hill was busy celebrating with their family and friends; we hardly had time to talk. Time passes so quickly, it is hard to believe tomorrow is New Year’s Eve.
Please come in. My niece Emily and her three sons are staying with me tonight because her husband David has to work the night shift.
Harmony Hill is a very peaceful place, but sometime all that quite can get a little bit creepy. Besides, we love to spend time with my Aunt… and all her goodies. The boys are asleep upstairs and we were just about to have a pig-out fest and watch an old movie. Please join us.
Would anyone like something to eat? I have plenty of leftover soup, manicotti, turkey…
I don’t know about the two of you Bella Nonna, but I have eaten enough of your delicious food in the past few days I could fast for the rest of the month. I can’t believe another New Year’s Eve approaches and I am faced with the same old resolution… this year I am definitely taking off these extra pounds. If I could lose fifteen or twenty pounds I would be so happy. I am starting a serious diet plan with plenty of exercise as soon as the holiday leftovers are gone.
If no one wants food, I am ready to watch the movie. I have already poured my coffee and gotten my goodies. Help yourselves to cookies and candy. There is some chocolate cake and a whiskey cake in the refrigerator. I put the nut tray and cheese platter on the coffee table already. Here use the Christmas dinner plate, they hold more. I’ll go upstairs and check on the boys for you Emily while you two get ready to watch the movie.
The boys are fast asleep and I let Lolly out for her final bathroom break.
Have you met Lolly? She is my lazy little Yorkie. She’s a very old puppy, aren’t you girl? Richard gave her to me eleven years ago on Christmas Eve. She has always been a lazy little lump of fur… my sons would try to get her to play or do tricks but she preferred to lounge in her bed and look cute. I named her Lolly; it is an acronym for… Love Our Lazy Little Yorkie.
Are you ready to watch the movie?
Yes Bella Nonna, all set. I am going to have a cup of coffee and only three cookies… of each kind of cookie you baked… I promise I am definitely going to start cutting down the first of the year!
What movie are we going to watch?
Charles Dickens’s “A Christmas Carol”, if that is okay with you. They have remade this movie so many times, but I always watch the version with Alastair Sim as Ebenezer Scrooge. I watched it years ago for the first time with my Granny and now it has become one of my favorite holiday rituals. Have you ever seen this version before?
I have seen cartoon versions of “A Christmas Carol”, but never one with live people Bella Nonna.
I think you are going to enjoy this movie. Is everyone comfy? Here is an afghan to snuggle under. I am going to dim the lights and start the movie.
I love this version of the movie Bella Nonna. I am going to buy the DVD so I can watch it with my boys next Christmas and start a holiday tradition with them… or maybe we could all watch it together.
Bella Nonna… oops looks like they both fell asleep. It is just you and me Lolly. Do you want to snuggle under the afghan with me? Fine stay in your bed… more room for me in the recliner.
What was that crash in the kitchen? Wake up Lolly; let’s go see what it is. Fine, you keep on sleeping you lumpy little animal, I’ll go check it out.
There is a plump gentleman raiding the refrigerator! He looks like Santa or maybe Dom DeLuise.
Excuse me sir, would you like me to fix you something to eat?
Nah, I can fend for myself. Your tomato sauce could use a little more garlic though.
My Aunt cooks for a lot of people over the Christmas Holidays and some of them do not like a lot of garlic in their sauce. She has homemade garlic powder in her spice rack… and hot pepper flakes if you would like some.
Do you mind if I nuke some turkey and stuffing… Ooohh, you made escarole soup. Where do you keep your soup bowls? What kind of cake is that… whiskey or rum?
It’s a whiskey cake. I hate to bother you when you are eating… but who are you and why are you raiding my Aunt’s refrigerator?
Oh how rude of me… the name is Librae, I am the ghost of diets past. Let me finish my snack and we will be on our way.
ON OUR WAY! I can’t leave…my children are asleep upstairs
We will only be gone a few minutes. They will be fine, they have Lolly for protection.
Yeah right… you broke into the house, made yourself a four course dinner and she hasn’t moved a muscle… some protection.
What if my Aunt wakes up while I am gone? She will be worried sick, besides I am right in the middle of a movie.
Come on… there might be cheesecake.
Well… my Aunt didn’t have time to make a cheesecake this Christmas. Do you promise me we will only be gone a few minutes?
Yes, now take my hand.
This is the living room of my childhood home. My brother, sister, two cousins and I are running around the Christmas tree playing with the old train set. I can’t believe how cute we are. My parents are sitting at the dining room table eating and chatting away with my Aunt and Uncle. How can this be? I…
Look at you… were you planning to go on a diet after the holidays?
Of course not! I am too young to go on a diet… I didn’t even know what being fat meant. Why, did I look fat?
Heavens no…I want to know what you see when you look at that little girl. Let’s get going.
Wait can’t I watch a little longer?
I thought you were in a hurry to get back home.
Yes, thank you Librae for showing me this… I am ready to go home.
Hang onto your slipper socks Emily.
Hey, this isn’t my Aunt’s house… it is the nurse’s office at my old high school. Why in the world did you bring me here Librae?
Just watch.
It’s me with Peachy and Brenda, my two best friends for high school. Wow, look how young we are. I would give anything to have that complexion and figure back. I remember that day… we are in the nurse’s office to have our annual height and weight check-up… I hated those things. I’m getting queasy thinking about it. My heart would pound in my chest like a bass drum waiting for Nurse Horn to move the big weigh thingy from the 150 lb slot to the 100 lb slot. Did she really have to fling the other little weight thingy so hard to the 49 lb mark and give me a leer… the skinny little… nurse? I got the picture, another pound or two and it wouldn’t be necessary to move the big weight thingy.
So, you think you looked pretty cute back then… no real need to go on a diet?
I had a few pounds of baby fat I needed to lose, but I really didn’t need to go on a diet. Why, are you saying I looked fat back then?
Heck no… this is all about what you think.
Hold on tight Emily and pay close attention, we are going to be moving fast over the next decade or two. Ready?
Let’s not and say we did…
Whoa the years are whizzing by…
Look, that is my wedding day, I only weighed 118 pound.
That is a year after Davy was born I was able to get down to 134 pound
My 29th birthday, I weighed 156 pound…I was so depressed.
See, I managed to get down to 126 pound by my 30th birthday.
My 15th high school reunion… I only ate 1000 calories a day for weeks to fit into that dress.
Hey, that is last New Year’s Eve; I promised myself I would be under 150 lb by this New Years.
Okay...enough already take me back to my Aunt’s!
Thank you. Man I’m out of breath and a little nauseated.
Well?
I know… I know instead of losing weight I put more on.
No, what did you learn from our little trip?
All those years I worried about being fat when I really wasn’t all that heavy. If I could weigh now what I weighed then I’d be happy… even 156 pounds would be great. I am going to skip the cheesecake Librae, but you help yourself to some more food. I will be right back; I am going to check on the boys.
Everyone is safe and sound asleep. Thank you so much for the trip Librae, I had a blast. Librae… are you in the kitchen? Hmmm…the kitchen is spotless and there is nothing missing out of the refrigerator. Could I have dreamt the whole thing? No more eating late for me. I should go to bed and get a good night’s rest. Let me say good night to Bella Nonna and her guest.
Bella Nonna, are you still asleep in the family room? You are not going to believe the dream I just...
What the… there is a little old lady asleep in the rocking chair!
Excuse me Ma’am… who are you and where is my Aunt and her guest?
Oh my goodness I must have dozed off. Hello dear I am Sarafina; I am the ghost of diets future.
What, no ghost of diets present?
Dear, you said you weren’t ready to diet right now… so there is not a ghost of a chance for a diet present. So let’s get this show on the road. Take my hand and we will be off.
I guess there is no chance of my changing your mind by offering you a little tea and cookies…
Nope…give me your hand… we have a lot to see and little time.
Is that my grandmother? She looks so young.
No silly, it is you sitting on that plush couch reading to your four adorable little grandchildren.
Four grandbabies…it's a good thing I have a large lap.
Yes it is... no one has to fight over who gets to sit on your lap and who gets to sit next to you. You have room for them all.
You know... I really don't look fat... I look like a REAL granny should look... don't you think?
Indeed I do Dear. Are you ready to move on?"
Not really. I'd love to cuddle with those babies, but I know we should be getting back.
Not back... in to the future. Hang on to your bloomers Deary.
For a little old lady, you sure move fast.
What a cozy little bedroom. Oh… there is a frail little woman sitting in that rocking chair looking out the window at some birds eating out of a birdfeeder on a tree in the yard. We better get out of here before she sees us. Too late here comes a middle-aged woman carrying a tray of food.
Hide before we get caught.
Good Morning Emily. How are you feeling today?
I'm feeling fine Cathy and you?
I am so bloated... I ate so much over the holidays... I really need to go on a diet.
Enjoy your food while you can Cathy. When you get as old as I am you find food doesn't agree with you like it used to. It's funny... how many times I wished I could lose weight and now I'd give anything to be able to put on a few pounds.
Whoa… that little old lady is ME? I'd gladly give her... me... some of THESE pounds right now!"
Shush… or you will miss something important.
Sorry... I guess I am right... no one ever listens to me... including ME. I think I get what you are trying to say Sarafina.
I sure hope so.
Are we traveling back to the present? Sarafina your hand is slip out of mine.
I am going to fall…
Don’t be afraid.
I can’t see you, but I can feel your warm presence. Are you God?
Just watch and learn.
It is me tilling the garden.
See... If weighed 125 pounds, you wouldn't be able the handle the tiller.you
It’s me carrying in the groceries. We sure go through a lot of food. I usually have to make five or six trips out to the car to get them all in the house.
Aren't you glad you ate a good breakfast? You had enough energy to buy those groceries, carry them into the house, put them all away and then make dinner.
There I am planting the apple tree Bella Nonna gave me two years because David doesn’t like to get dirty… to tell you the truth, I don’t think he could do it. Look how hard I have to jump on the shovel to drive it deep into the hard soil. You need to make the hole big enough for the tree's roots to spread out and grow.
Those extra few pounds came in pretty handy digging through that hard clay soil.
That was last Summer when I let my sister-in-law Pauline talk me into letting my three sons tube down the Brandywine with her two kids. I didn’t think my guys were old enough, but David kept protesting, “You got to let them grow up sometime… you baby them too much.” So against my better judgment I let them go. The current was too strong for them and it started to take the boys too far down stream. I had to dive in and pull them back to shore because David and his brother Mike were sound asleep and Pauline couldn’t swim.
Thank goodness you weren't a 110 pound weakling... you were able to swim after them and bring them safely back to shore.
I know…the water had gotten so deep that my feet didn’t even touch the bottom. I had to get all the children to hold onto each other’s inner tubes while I paddled to shore shoving all five of them at once… they could have drowned.
H'OUT... H'OUT... H'OUT.
Excuse me... I don't understand. What do you mean by Hout?
I’m sorry Emily; did Lolly wake you? She is asking to go out.
After the movie ended, I tried to gently wake the two of you to get you to go upstairs but you were sleeping so soundly I decided to just let you sleep.
I just woke up about fifteen minutes ago to start breakfast. I guess the smell of bacon woke Lolly up and she needs “h’out”.
I have been asleep down here all night?
Yes Emily.
I didn’t go anywhere… no one came…
What?
Never mind Bella Nonna…I think I am still a little groggy. I am going upstairs to take a shower and check on the boys.
Alright Emily, we will have breakfast when you come back down.
Hmm…no sign of any one being here, everything look normal. Nothing has changed ... except... my reflection in the hallway mirror. Somehow during the night I became a little lighter... my fat bulges are more like soft curves. I never noticed that my full face and double chin gives me a sweeter more loving expression. I don’t look like a supermodel... but I do look like a supermom... able to feed a family of five on a single paycheck...sort a load of smelly socks without passing out... able to catch up to the trash men lugging two over-stuffed bargain trash bag and not have them tear. I can stop three rambunctious boys from battling over a toy with a single stare and find lost car keys at moment’s notice.
I'm not sure what really happened during the night... but I'm glad it did!
Everyone at Harmony Hill was busy celebrating with their family and friends; we hardly had time to talk. Time passes so quickly, it is hard to believe tomorrow is New Year’s Eve.
Please come in. My niece Emily and her three sons are staying with me tonight because her husband David has to work the night shift.
Harmony Hill is a very peaceful place, but sometime all that quite can get a little bit creepy. Besides, we love to spend time with my Aunt… and all her goodies. The boys are asleep upstairs and we were just about to have a pig-out fest and watch an old movie. Please join us.
Would anyone like something to eat? I have plenty of leftover soup, manicotti, turkey…
I don’t know about the two of you Bella Nonna, but I have eaten enough of your delicious food in the past few days I could fast for the rest of the month. I can’t believe another New Year’s Eve approaches and I am faced with the same old resolution… this year I am definitely taking off these extra pounds. If I could lose fifteen or twenty pounds I would be so happy. I am starting a serious diet plan with plenty of exercise as soon as the holiday leftovers are gone.
If no one wants food, I am ready to watch the movie. I have already poured my coffee and gotten my goodies. Help yourselves to cookies and candy. There is some chocolate cake and a whiskey cake in the refrigerator. I put the nut tray and cheese platter on the coffee table already. Here use the Christmas dinner plate, they hold more. I’ll go upstairs and check on the boys for you Emily while you two get ready to watch the movie.
The boys are fast asleep and I let Lolly out for her final bathroom break.
Have you met Lolly? She is my lazy little Yorkie. She’s a very old puppy, aren’t you girl? Richard gave her to me eleven years ago on Christmas Eve. She has always been a lazy little lump of fur… my sons would try to get her to play or do tricks but she preferred to lounge in her bed and look cute. I named her Lolly; it is an acronym for… Love Our Lazy Little Yorkie.
Are you ready to watch the movie?
Yes Bella Nonna, all set. I am going to have a cup of coffee and only three cookies… of each kind of cookie you baked… I promise I am definitely going to start cutting down the first of the year!
What movie are we going to watch?
Charles Dickens’s “A Christmas Carol”, if that is okay with you. They have remade this movie so many times, but I always watch the version with Alastair Sim as Ebenezer Scrooge. I watched it years ago for the first time with my Granny and now it has become one of my favorite holiday rituals. Have you ever seen this version before?
I have seen cartoon versions of “A Christmas Carol”, but never one with live people Bella Nonna.
I think you are going to enjoy this movie. Is everyone comfy? Here is an afghan to snuggle under. I am going to dim the lights and start the movie.
I love this version of the movie Bella Nonna. I am going to buy the DVD so I can watch it with my boys next Christmas and start a holiday tradition with them… or maybe we could all watch it together.
Bella Nonna… oops looks like they both fell asleep. It is just you and me Lolly. Do you want to snuggle under the afghan with me? Fine stay in your bed… more room for me in the recliner.
What was that crash in the kitchen? Wake up Lolly; let’s go see what it is. Fine, you keep on sleeping you lumpy little animal, I’ll go check it out.
There is a plump gentleman raiding the refrigerator! He looks like Santa or maybe Dom DeLuise.
Excuse me sir, would you like me to fix you something to eat?
Nah, I can fend for myself. Your tomato sauce could use a little more garlic though.
My Aunt cooks for a lot of people over the Christmas Holidays and some of them do not like a lot of garlic in their sauce. She has homemade garlic powder in her spice rack… and hot pepper flakes if you would like some.
Do you mind if I nuke some turkey and stuffing… Ooohh, you made escarole soup. Where do you keep your soup bowls? What kind of cake is that… whiskey or rum?
It’s a whiskey cake. I hate to bother you when you are eating… but who are you and why are you raiding my Aunt’s refrigerator?
Oh how rude of me… the name is Librae, I am the ghost of diets past. Let me finish my snack and we will be on our way.
ON OUR WAY! I can’t leave…my children are asleep upstairs
We will only be gone a few minutes. They will be fine, they have Lolly for protection.
Yeah right… you broke into the house, made yourself a four course dinner and she hasn’t moved a muscle… some protection.
What if my Aunt wakes up while I am gone? She will be worried sick, besides I am right in the middle of a movie.
Come on… there might be cheesecake.
Well… my Aunt didn’t have time to make a cheesecake this Christmas. Do you promise me we will only be gone a few minutes?
Yes, now take my hand.
This is the living room of my childhood home. My brother, sister, two cousins and I are running around the Christmas tree playing with the old train set. I can’t believe how cute we are. My parents are sitting at the dining room table eating and chatting away with my Aunt and Uncle. How can this be? I…
Look at you… were you planning to go on a diet after the holidays?
Of course not! I am too young to go on a diet… I didn’t even know what being fat meant. Why, did I look fat?
Heavens no…I want to know what you see when you look at that little girl. Let’s get going.
Wait can’t I watch a little longer?
I thought you were in a hurry to get back home.
Yes, thank you Librae for showing me this… I am ready to go home.
Hang onto your slipper socks Emily.
Hey, this isn’t my Aunt’s house… it is the nurse’s office at my old high school. Why in the world did you bring me here Librae?
Just watch.
It’s me with Peachy and Brenda, my two best friends for high school. Wow, look how young we are. I would give anything to have that complexion and figure back. I remember that day… we are in the nurse’s office to have our annual height and weight check-up… I hated those things. I’m getting queasy thinking about it. My heart would pound in my chest like a bass drum waiting for Nurse Horn to move the big weigh thingy from the 150 lb slot to the 100 lb slot. Did she really have to fling the other little weight thingy so hard to the 49 lb mark and give me a leer… the skinny little… nurse? I got the picture, another pound or two and it wouldn’t be necessary to move the big weight thingy.
So, you think you looked pretty cute back then… no real need to go on a diet?
I had a few pounds of baby fat I needed to lose, but I really didn’t need to go on a diet. Why, are you saying I looked fat back then?
Heck no… this is all about what you think.
Hold on tight Emily and pay close attention, we are going to be moving fast over the next decade or two. Ready?
Let’s not and say we did…
Whoa the years are whizzing by…
Look, that is my wedding day, I only weighed 118 pound.
That is a year after Davy was born I was able to get down to 134 pound
My 29th birthday, I weighed 156 pound…I was so depressed.
See, I managed to get down to 126 pound by my 30th birthday.
My 15th high school reunion… I only ate 1000 calories a day for weeks to fit into that dress.
Hey, that is last New Year’s Eve; I promised myself I would be under 150 lb by this New Years.
Okay...enough already take me back to my Aunt’s!
Thank you. Man I’m out of breath and a little nauseated.
Well?
I know… I know instead of losing weight I put more on.
No, what did you learn from our little trip?
All those years I worried about being fat when I really wasn’t all that heavy. If I could weigh now what I weighed then I’d be happy… even 156 pounds would be great. I am going to skip the cheesecake Librae, but you help yourself to some more food. I will be right back; I am going to check on the boys.
Everyone is safe and sound asleep. Thank you so much for the trip Librae, I had a blast. Librae… are you in the kitchen? Hmmm…the kitchen is spotless and there is nothing missing out of the refrigerator. Could I have dreamt the whole thing? No more eating late for me. I should go to bed and get a good night’s rest. Let me say good night to Bella Nonna and her guest.
Bella Nonna, are you still asleep in the family room? You are not going to believe the dream I just...
What the… there is a little old lady asleep in the rocking chair!
Excuse me Ma’am… who are you and where is my Aunt and her guest?
Oh my goodness I must have dozed off. Hello dear I am Sarafina; I am the ghost of diets future.
What, no ghost of diets present?
Dear, you said you weren’t ready to diet right now… so there is not a ghost of a chance for a diet present. So let’s get this show on the road. Take my hand and we will be off.
I guess there is no chance of my changing your mind by offering you a little tea and cookies…
Nope…give me your hand… we have a lot to see and little time.
Is that my grandmother? She looks so young.
No silly, it is you sitting on that plush couch reading to your four adorable little grandchildren.
Four grandbabies…it's a good thing I have a large lap.
Yes it is... no one has to fight over who gets to sit on your lap and who gets to sit next to you. You have room for them all.
You know... I really don't look fat... I look like a REAL granny should look... don't you think?
Indeed I do Dear. Are you ready to move on?"
Not really. I'd love to cuddle with those babies, but I know we should be getting back.
Not back... in to the future. Hang on to your bloomers Deary.
For a little old lady, you sure move fast.
What a cozy little bedroom. Oh… there is a frail little woman sitting in that rocking chair looking out the window at some birds eating out of a birdfeeder on a tree in the yard. We better get out of here before she sees us. Too late here comes a middle-aged woman carrying a tray of food.
Hide before we get caught.
Good Morning Emily. How are you feeling today?
I'm feeling fine Cathy and you?
I am so bloated... I ate so much over the holidays... I really need to go on a diet.
Enjoy your food while you can Cathy. When you get as old as I am you find food doesn't agree with you like it used to. It's funny... how many times I wished I could lose weight and now I'd give anything to be able to put on a few pounds.
Whoa… that little old lady is ME? I'd gladly give her... me... some of THESE pounds right now!"
Shush… or you will miss something important.
Sorry... I guess I am right... no one ever listens to me... including ME. I think I get what you are trying to say Sarafina.
I sure hope so.
Are we traveling back to the present? Sarafina your hand is slip out of mine.
I am going to fall…
Don’t be afraid.
I can’t see you, but I can feel your warm presence. Are you God?
Just watch and learn.
It is me tilling the garden.
See... If weighed 125 pounds, you wouldn't be able the handle the tiller.you
It’s me carrying in the groceries. We sure go through a lot of food. I usually have to make five or six trips out to the car to get them all in the house.
Aren't you glad you ate a good breakfast? You had enough energy to buy those groceries, carry them into the house, put them all away and then make dinner.
There I am planting the apple tree Bella Nonna gave me two years because David doesn’t like to get dirty… to tell you the truth, I don’t think he could do it. Look how hard I have to jump on the shovel to drive it deep into the hard soil. You need to make the hole big enough for the tree's roots to spread out and grow.
Those extra few pounds came in pretty handy digging through that hard clay soil.
That was last Summer when I let my sister-in-law Pauline talk me into letting my three sons tube down the Brandywine with her two kids. I didn’t think my guys were old enough, but David kept protesting, “You got to let them grow up sometime… you baby them too much.” So against my better judgment I let them go. The current was too strong for them and it started to take the boys too far down stream. I had to dive in and pull them back to shore because David and his brother Mike were sound asleep and Pauline couldn’t swim.
Thank goodness you weren't a 110 pound weakling... you were able to swim after them and bring them safely back to shore.
I know…the water had gotten so deep that my feet didn’t even touch the bottom. I had to get all the children to hold onto each other’s inner tubes while I paddled to shore shoving all five of them at once… they could have drowned.
H'OUT... H'OUT... H'OUT.
Excuse me... I don't understand. What do you mean by Hout?
I’m sorry Emily; did Lolly wake you? She is asking to go out.
After the movie ended, I tried to gently wake the two of you to get you to go upstairs but you were sleeping so soundly I decided to just let you sleep.
I just woke up about fifteen minutes ago to start breakfast. I guess the smell of bacon woke Lolly up and she needs “h’out”.
I have been asleep down here all night?
Yes Emily.
I didn’t go anywhere… no one came…
What?
Never mind Bella Nonna…I think I am still a little groggy. I am going upstairs to take a shower and check on the boys.
Alright Emily, we will have breakfast when you come back down.
Hmm…no sign of any one being here, everything look normal. Nothing has changed ... except... my reflection in the hallway mirror. Somehow during the night I became a little lighter... my fat bulges are more like soft curves. I never noticed that my full face and double chin gives me a sweeter more loving expression. I don’t look like a supermodel... but I do look like a supermom... able to feed a family of five on a single paycheck...sort a load of smelly socks without passing out... able to catch up to the trash men lugging two over-stuffed bargain trash bag and not have them tear. I can stop three rambunctious boys from battling over a toy with a single stare and find lost car keys at moment’s notice.
I'm not sure what really happened during the night... but I'm glad it did!
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
I Thought It Was Forever.
I wasn't looking for fame and fortune
Or a life filled with material things
I wanted the simple things life had to offer
And the joy that they would bring
To walk through life with my beloved
Facing life's adventures, whatever they might be
To have a cozy home filled with children
And loving family
And then one day it happened
My fondest dream came true
A life filled with love and laughter
Is what I saw when I looked at you.
You told me that you loved me
And want to make my dreams come true
If only I would be patient
And put my trust in you
I gave you everything I had
My love, my soul, my life
I tried to do everything you asked of me
To be your perfect wife
The Lord blessed us with three wonderful sons
And a cozy home to make our life complete
I thought all my prayers were answered
For I was unaware of your deceit
I believed you when you told me
You loved me with all your heart
I was the one you would love and cherish
Until death us do part
Often you would abandoned me
Always leaving on some important quest
You said this would make you happy
"Believe me, it's for the best"
And so I let you have your space
To do what you had to do
I loved you with all my heart
And believed that time would see us through
The road was often rocky
My nights sometimes filled with fear
But I told myself just hang tight
One day he will again call me dear
So patiently I waited
Our babies grew into men
But nothing I did could keep
Our marriage from coming to an end
You took only the best
And left me with the useless clutter
"If you sell it, send me my half"
Is all that you did mutter
With deep sorrow I watched
As strangers picked apart my life
Reducing my dreams to pennies
It cut through me like a knife
The yard sale is over
Our dream house has been sold
Just pitch the rest of the junk
Was the advice I was told
With each useless item
I put into the trash
Went a broken promise
And the sorrow that was attached
I found myself getting stronger
I realized that this was meant to be
I know I will get through this
With God's help and my loving family
Although my journey is far from over
My path somewhat unclear
I know that I will make it
For I have survived my greatest fear
Or a life filled with material things
I wanted the simple things life had to offer
And the joy that they would bring
To walk through life with my beloved
Facing life's adventures, whatever they might be
To have a cozy home filled with children
And loving family
And then one day it happened
My fondest dream came true
A life filled with love and laughter
Is what I saw when I looked at you.
You told me that you loved me
And want to make my dreams come true
If only I would be patient
And put my trust in you
I gave you everything I had
My love, my soul, my life
I tried to do everything you asked of me
To be your perfect wife
The Lord blessed us with three wonderful sons
And a cozy home to make our life complete
I thought all my prayers were answered
For I was unaware of your deceit
I believed you when you told me
You loved me with all your heart
I was the one you would love and cherish
Until death us do part
Often you would abandoned me
Always leaving on some important quest
You said this would make you happy
"Believe me, it's for the best"
And so I let you have your space
To do what you had to do
I loved you with all my heart
And believed that time would see us through
The road was often rocky
My nights sometimes filled with fear
But I told myself just hang tight
One day he will again call me dear
So patiently I waited
Our babies grew into men
But nothing I did could keep
Our marriage from coming to an end
You took only the best
And left me with the useless clutter
"If you sell it, send me my half"
Is all that you did mutter
With deep sorrow I watched
As strangers picked apart my life
Reducing my dreams to pennies
It cut through me like a knife
The yard sale is over
Our dream house has been sold
Just pitch the rest of the junk
Was the advice I was told
With each useless item
I put into the trash
Went a broken promise
And the sorrow that was attached
I found myself getting stronger
I realized that this was meant to be
I know I will get through this
With God's help and my loving family
Although my journey is far from over
My path somewhat unclear
I know that I will make it
For I have survived my greatest fear
Why Am I So Happy?
My lot in life has been carefully drawn
From my experiences both past and present
Everything I possess is mine you see
For it is the life that I have chosen
The good, the bad, the happy and sad
I cherish with all my heart
To give one up I may lose the rest
And be left with a heart that's hard or frozen
Many think the choice I've made
Is a waste of my God given talent
I work night and day without pay
There's not a minute I truly can call my own
But I wouldn't trade one moment
No matter what the prize
To be a millionaire, a movie star
Or a queen sitting on a throne
For I am a stay-at-home mother
A vocation that has lost some respect
A life most people view as to hard
Constantly full of giving and no take
It's because I have found the secret
Handed down through generations long past
True happiness can be found when you
Sing a lullaby, play a game or bake a cake
But don't take my word for it
Take a moment out of your busy life
Let your eyes and ears be truly open
Go on your own spiritual quest
You will find the world is full of people
Each with their own secret dreams
Which they will often abandon
For a life that others think is best
At first when you look at these people
You may think that they have it all
Oh what you wouldn't give
To have all that material treasure
But do their eyes light up and shine
When they are telling you their story
Did you laugh and giggle
Was hearing it a pleasure
Then there are the full-time caregivers
One of which is known as the
Lowly stay-at-home mother
She has nothing to show for her trouble
Why you may ask isn't she out there
Getting a life and crunching the numbers
Instead of trying to teach her child
How to blow a bubble
It is because she possess the wisdom
To invest in something unique
With a payoff most people find
A little hard to comprehend
The unconditional love of a child
The joy of a life that's complete
And the contented slumber that comes
When her day finally comes to an end
They say the choice is your
As long as you agree with them and decide
To always take care of number one
Get out there, grab life, have fun
Well I have chosen to live life differently
I happily gave when others took
But instead of coming up empty
I found that my cup doth over run
I don't know if you consider my
Words to be full of wisdom
Or just some rambling from
Someone with out a clue
But when I find a quiet moment
When I'm truly alone with myself
Thoughts of family fill me with laughter
I was wondering... is it the same for you?
From my experiences both past and present
Everything I possess is mine you see
For it is the life that I have chosen
The good, the bad, the happy and sad
I cherish with all my heart
To give one up I may lose the rest
And be left with a heart that's hard or frozen
Many think the choice I've made
Is a waste of my God given talent
I work night and day without pay
There's not a minute I truly can call my own
But I wouldn't trade one moment
No matter what the prize
To be a millionaire, a movie star
Or a queen sitting on a throne
For I am a stay-at-home mother
A vocation that has lost some respect
A life most people view as to hard
Constantly full of giving and no take
It's because I have found the secret
Handed down through generations long past
True happiness can be found when you
Sing a lullaby, play a game or bake a cake
But don't take my word for it
Take a moment out of your busy life
Let your eyes and ears be truly open
Go on your own spiritual quest
You will find the world is full of people
Each with their own secret dreams
Which they will often abandon
For a life that others think is best
At first when you look at these people
You may think that they have it all
Oh what you wouldn't give
To have all that material treasure
But do their eyes light up and shine
When they are telling you their story
Did you laugh and giggle
Was hearing it a pleasure
Then there are the full-time caregivers
One of which is known as the
Lowly stay-at-home mother
She has nothing to show for her trouble
Why you may ask isn't she out there
Getting a life and crunching the numbers
Instead of trying to teach her child
How to blow a bubble
It is because she possess the wisdom
To invest in something unique
With a payoff most people find
A little hard to comprehend
The unconditional love of a child
The joy of a life that's complete
And the contented slumber that comes
When her day finally comes to an end
They say the choice is your
As long as you agree with them and decide
To always take care of number one
Get out there, grab life, have fun
Well I have chosen to live life differently
I happily gave when others took
But instead of coming up empty
I found that my cup doth over run
I don't know if you consider my
Words to be full of wisdom
Or just some rambling from
Someone with out a clue
But when I find a quiet moment
When I'm truly alone with myself
Thoughts of family fill me with laughter
I was wondering... is it the same for you?
Is Someone Listening
From the moment she first drew breath
As the outside air filled her lungs
She wanted to know if her voice was being heard
She had so much to share with this new world
And hoped someone would take the time to listen
She looked deep into the doctor's eyes
Searching for the answer
But he just handed her off to a nurse
Who quickly whisked her off to a scale.
Who quickly whisked her off to a scale.
She weighs 7 lb. 2 oz. and is 20 inches long
Eyes... blue
Hair... light
Eyes... blue
Hair... light
Frighten and cold she asked the nurse
Will you please take a moment to speak to me
What I have to say may be importance
The nurse was too efficient to take the time
Besides... it's not her job
Getting a baby's vital statistic is all she is required to do
How do you get someone to listen
Although she did her best to try
To get an answer to her question
all she could do was cry
Her cries often went unanswered
No matter what she did
So
So
She learned to just keep quiet
The years passed
Off to her first day of school she went
Hoping to learn how to communicate
Now she would learn the secret
She would finally be heard
But
Instead of giving her the answer
Instead of giving her the answer
Her teachers confirmed the terrible truth
What she needed to say was of no interest
So quietly she pondered
And lived life the best she could
For years she listened to other people's problem
As they prattled on about their lives
Always wondering when it was going to be her turn to speak
Then one day as she lies in bed
Her hair snow white against the flowered pillowcase
Too tired to ask another person
So weary from her search
Her soul still pining
For someone to just listen
I am listening
She heard as she drew her last breath
She heard as she drew her last breath
You have done well my child
Please sit down here beside me
I am anxious to hear all about it
A Child Shall Lead Them
He sits alone in the sandbox
In his world filled with impossible dreams
He has yet to learn of the sorrow
Of a world filled with treachery and schemes
He believes the world will embrace him
Even though he is crippled and small
There is room for all kinds of people
For Granny told him "God loves us all"
Some may look at this baby
So homely and exceptionally small
Their hearts may ache for his mother
Who was once the bell of the ball
Others may say it is justice
For the pain that she caused in her past
Now she will know all the misery
The queen has been dethrone at last
I watched each day as his mother
Slowly drifted away in her shell
As her baby just kept playing
Unaware of her personal hell
What do you say to a person
Who had caused you a lifetime of pain
How many nights I spent crying
Until I was physically drained
Then I watched as my own little baby
Walked over to her little son
Soon they were laughing and giggling
Two little playmates just having fun
I stood and watched in amazement
And saw what love truly can do
This world is just what you make it
It is really all up to you
Slowly I walked over to his mother
Letting my heart lead the way
Praying the Lord would give me
The words that I needed to say
I sat down on the bench beside her
And took her hand into mine
Before I could utter a word
Her eyes started to sparkle and shine
With a smile so long hidden
As a tear gently fell from her cheek
She hugged me so long and so tightly
There was no need to speak
I know that a miracle happened
Right there at the playground that day
When two cold hearts final melted
At the sight of their babies at play
In his world filled with impossible dreams
He has yet to learn of the sorrow
Of a world filled with treachery and schemes
He believes the world will embrace him
Even though he is crippled and small
There is room for all kinds of people
For Granny told him "God loves us all"
Some may look at this baby
So homely and exceptionally small
Their hearts may ache for his mother
Who was once the bell of the ball
Others may say it is justice
For the pain that she caused in her past
Now she will know all the misery
The queen has been dethrone at last
I watched each day as his mother
Slowly drifted away in her shell
As her baby just kept playing
Unaware of her personal hell
What do you say to a person
Who had caused you a lifetime of pain
How many nights I spent crying
Until I was physically drained
Then I watched as my own little baby
Walked over to her little son
Soon they were laughing and giggling
Two little playmates just having fun
I stood and watched in amazement
And saw what love truly can do
This world is just what you make it
It is really all up to you
Slowly I walked over to his mother
Letting my heart lead the way
Praying the Lord would give me
The words that I needed to say
I sat down on the bench beside her
And took her hand into mine
Before I could utter a word
Her eyes started to sparkle and shine
With a smile so long hidden
As a tear gently fell from her cheek
She hugged me so long and so tightly
There was no need to speak
I know that a miracle happened
Right there at the playground that day
When two cold hearts final melted
At the sight of their babies at play
I’m Sorry
Fight number 674
I’m sorry for the things I said
I’m sorry I wasn’t good in bed
I’m sorry for the way I look
But you have to admit I’m a fabulous cook
I’m sorry for the things you lack
I’m sorry for the youth you’ll never get back
I’m sorry I didn't know what you wanted
But when I asked you only grunted
I’m sorry I’m not all style and flash
I’m sorry you had to take out the trash
I’m sorry for the red-hot summer days
I’m sorry for my annoying ways
I’m sorry when autumn leaves fall
I’m sorry that your butts not small
I’m sorry that winter is freezing cold
I’m sorry I wasn’t strong or bold
I’m sorry for the rain in spring
Hell I’m sorry for everything
I’m sorry for all the times I cried
But at least I know I really tried
I’m sorry that we fell apart
But I will always love you with all my heart
Please Help Me Understand
Will
someone please explain war to me
Because I am unable to comprehend
How killing innocent people
Will ensure our freedom in the end
The history books are full of facts and figures
Of battles lost and won
But where is the peace and security
For the family who just buried their son
Does anyone remember watching the lottery
How we all prayed for our brother or a friend
Making God silent promises if only their
"Number" would be somewhere near the end
I saw my grandfather's eyes fill with tears
As he watched young men going off the war
He said fighting for your country is an honor
But his eyes were saying much more
When watching news clips of the "conflict"
No matter how hard I tried
I never saw the hateful enemy
Only the innocent people that had died
I would really appreciate an answer
If someone would kindly explain
Exactly how killing someone's child
Is a victory and not just unbearable pain
I ponder this while rocking my baby
My heart filled with such joy
The Lord blessed me with a miracle
Another precious baby boy
Will I be faced with the horror
Of sons being sent off to be killed
Knowing the only outcome of battle
Is innocent blood will be spilled
Do I tell my sons, "You shall not kill"
Is only a guideline for peace
You must take up arms with your brothers
Until we have slain the power-hungry beast
Please dear friends I beg you
Will you help me understand
How a nation can send our precious
Children out to kill their fellow man
If only our world leaders could see their
Angelic face with eyes so innocent and clear
They would put an end to this senseless fighting
And spread hope instead of fear
Popsicle Lady and Mr. Neighbor Man
This is for Popsicle Lady and Mr. Neighbor Man
All those special people who have touched our lives
They give their hearts so freely without a second thought
I want them all to know I think of them often
I carry them safely tucked away in my heart
All of their generous actions have not been for naught
Although their names may be different
And their love shown in unique and special ways
The world is a much better place for the compassion they have brought
WHAT IS A MOTHER?
A mother is someone who is always around
That you can go to when you are down
She spends a many sleepless night
Just to make sure that you're alright
She tries to be happy when she is blue
She never wants to trouble you
She is someone who makes you her whole life
And tries to make dad a very good wife
Sometimes she gets you so mad you could shout
But she is someone we all can't live without
She tries to teach you right from wrong
And is cheerful and gay and sings you a song
So when you are sad the thing to do
Is remember your mother will always love you
That you can go to when you are down
She spends a many sleepless night
Just to make sure that you're alright
She tries to be happy when she is blue
She never wants to trouble you
She is someone who makes you her whole life
And tries to make dad a very good wife
Sometimes she gets you so mad you could shout
But she is someone we all can't live without
She tries to teach you right from wrong
And is cheerful and gay and sings you a song
So when you are sad the thing to do
Is remember your mother will always love you
Monday, January 11, 2010
Ode To The Granny Panty
Oh wonderful granny panties
I love the way you caress my butt cheek
If I had it my way
I’d wear you every day of the week
My lacy date night panties
Look so dainty in my dresser drawer
But they are guaranteed to give me a wedgie
Before I reach my bedroom door
Those pompous fashion designers
Claim thongs give you style and class
I wonder how many of them are running around
With a string stuck up their ass
I refuse to let the fear of visible panty lines
Keep me a member of the doom and gloomers
I’m trading in my uncomfortable panties
For a pair of old-fashion bloomers
I love the way you caress my butt cheek
If I had it my way
I’d wear you every day of the week
My lacy date night panties
Look so dainty in my dresser drawer
But they are guaranteed to give me a wedgie
Before I reach my bedroom door
Those pompous fashion designers
Claim thongs give you style and class
I wonder how many of them are running around
With a string stuck up their ass
I refuse to let the fear of visible panty lines
Keep me a member of the doom and gloomers
I’m trading in my uncomfortable panties
For a pair of old-fashion bloomers
Why Am I Thankful To Be A Teenager In Y2K?
I am thankful for the cell phone I use to communicate
My own TV, computer and Playstation… I think it’s really great
I can cook a meal in a minute and then pitch out the dish
I have my own car and can drive where ever I wish
I need not worry about having cash; I have my own credit cards
It is nice to have freedom and to know the choice is really ours
Who cares if I have homework or stay out very late
As long as I have friends who think that I am great
No one to bug me about where I am going or even what I wear
No one asking me “How was your day?” as if they really care
No one is there to laugh with, talk to or listen to my fears
No one is there… no one cares… so I dry my own tears
When I have a question and the answer I cannot find
I take a drink or have a smoke… I am sure my parents do not mind
As long as I don’t inconvenience them, I am free to do my thing
These are the things I look forward to when I hear the New Year’s bell ring
My own TV, computer and Playstation… I think it’s really great
I can cook a meal in a minute and then pitch out the dish
I have my own car and can drive where ever I wish
I need not worry about having cash; I have my own credit cards
It is nice to have freedom and to know the choice is really ours
Who cares if I have homework or stay out very late
As long as I have friends who think that I am great
No one to bug me about where I am going or even what I wear
No one asking me “How was your day?” as if they really care
No one is there to laugh with, talk to or listen to my fears
No one is there… no one cares… so I dry my own tears
When I have a question and the answer I cannot find
I take a drink or have a smoke… I am sure my parents do not mind
As long as I don’t inconvenience them, I am free to do my thing
These are the things I look forward to when I hear the New Year’s bell ring
Let Me Sow Love
Evil little witch in your ivory tower
You sit and bitch about the hour
Like a coward you hide in the dark
Spewing your venom on an innocent soul
If only you had the courage to speak face to face
You never took the time
To ask
To know
To understand
You just scream and threaten
Forcing my loved ones to go
Where is your compassion
Your humanity
Your sense of justice
If only you took the time to find out what was going on
You would have found a mother trying to overcome a great loss
Her son just had a frightening car accident
She was just doing her mothering thing
Loving
Consoling
Asking her sons to drive safe
I had no idea I was disturbing you
Something I never ever wanted to do
Instead you choose to hurl horrible
Frightening words at my open wound
And when I try to explain
Before I have a chance to apologize
You threaten my existence
In fear I retreat to my apartment
And sit in the dark for hours
Every creak
Every thud
Fills me with incredible terror
With each passing second
Every menacing tick of my clock
My heart grows heavier
My head pounds
I want to run
But have nowhere to go
At first I secretly curse you
Wishing you could feel my pain
Hoping someone would do to you
Exactly the same
I cry
I pace
I pray
Asking God how could someone be so cruel
If you had only taken the time
I would have gladly explained
The hours slowly pass as I pace
A new day dawns
Will you going about your day
Without a care in the world
Totally oblivious
To the despair and anger you left in your wake
I summon up the courage
To peek out through my closed blinds
I need to see the sunrise
I need the reassurance that love and compassion still exist
As I gaze upon the beauty
Salmon pink and purple streaking through a pale blue sky
I feel compassion for you slowly seep in
I am going to give you much more than you deserve
I give you my understanding
To speak with such hatred you must be in great pain
I give you my forgiveness
I choose to believe you were in great distress
Unable to think about the consequences of your threats
I give you my sincere apology
I had no idea I was disturbing you
Although I am unable to fall asleep
Your voice still echoes in my brain
I will get down on my knees
And ask God
To bless you just the same!
The Path Of Life
While walking down the path of life
I came to a fork in the road
I didn’t know which path to take
For I was carrying a heavy load
My head was telling me take the path to the right
It is so bright and sunny
You don’t have to worry about anyone
It’s a life filled with luxury and money
My heart was pleading to go to the left
But the path was so bumpy and long
With all that I needed to carry
I couldn’t take a chance that it might be wrong
My soul then gently prodded
Straight is the path you should take
But it was so overgrown and lonely
I was fearful this path would be a mistake
As I stood there lost and frighten
Praying I would choose the right road
He came to me soft as a whisper
And offered to lighten my load
Reluctantly I put down my bundle
I felt nervous and a little ashamed
How could I accept help from this kind stranger
I didn’t even know his name
Dear child you knew me when you were a baby
For I have been with you every moment of your life
How sad you have forgotten me
Now you are lost in a world filled with strife
Slowly He opened my bundle
And took a long look inside
It was filled with fear, guilt and worry
There was so much sorrow He actually cried
My precious child why do you feel
You must carry this around
There is a world filled with love and laughter
It is so unnecessary to let this weigh you down
One by one he took each pain and asked
“Will you please give this to me?”
I felt my heart becoming lighter
My spirit was being set free
When I looked up to thank Him
For His love and generosity
I found to my amazement
A new path had opened up to me
I knew in an instant that this is the path
I would travel until my dying day
I will always give thanks and praise
That He had stopped to show me the way
I know now that negative emotions
Will only weigh me down
A positive, loving attitude
Is much lighter I have found
So if you find a fork in the road
And choosing becomes an unbearable task
Remember He is always there to love and guide you
All you have to do is ask
I came to a fork in the road
I didn’t know which path to take
For I was carrying a heavy load
My head was telling me take the path to the right
It is so bright and sunny
You don’t have to worry about anyone
It’s a life filled with luxury and money
My heart was pleading to go to the left
But the path was so bumpy and long
With all that I needed to carry
I couldn’t take a chance that it might be wrong
My soul then gently prodded
Straight is the path you should take
But it was so overgrown and lonely
I was fearful this path would be a mistake
As I stood there lost and frighten
Praying I would choose the right road
He came to me soft as a whisper
And offered to lighten my load
Reluctantly I put down my bundle
I felt nervous and a little ashamed
How could I accept help from this kind stranger
I didn’t even know his name
Dear child you knew me when you were a baby
For I have been with you every moment of your life
How sad you have forgotten me
Now you are lost in a world filled with strife
Slowly He opened my bundle
And took a long look inside
It was filled with fear, guilt and worry
There was so much sorrow He actually cried
My precious child why do you feel
You must carry this around
There is a world filled with love and laughter
It is so unnecessary to let this weigh you down
One by one he took each pain and asked
“Will you please give this to me?”
I felt my heart becoming lighter
My spirit was being set free
When I looked up to thank Him
For His love and generosity
I found to my amazement
A new path had opened up to me
I knew in an instant that this is the path
I would travel until my dying day
I will always give thanks and praise
That He had stopped to show me the way
I know now that negative emotions
Will only weigh me down
A positive, loving attitude
Is much lighter I have found
So if you find a fork in the road
And choosing becomes an unbearable task
Remember He is always there to love and guide you
All you have to do is ask
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Poetry contest
Sorry I missed you the past couple of days.
The library’s new reading room is finally completed and to celebrate we are going to have a poetry contest. We are hoping to generate some new interest in the county library.
Would you like to visit the library? Moira Clement, she is the head librarian, phoned this morning to tell me that all of the poems have been posted on the wall.
I’m sorry; let me explain what I mean by posting their poem on the wall. Everyone is invited to tape their original poetry on the blue poster paper covering the walls around the new reading room any time during normal library hours. Moira decided to give everyone three weeks to post their work before the voting would begin.
The library’s new reading room is finally completed and to celebrate we are going to have a poetry contest. We are hoping to generate some new interest in the county library.
Would you like to visit the library? Moira Clement, she is the head librarian, phoned this morning to tell me that all of the poems have been posted on the wall.
I’m sorry; let me explain what I mean by posting their poem on the wall. Everyone is invited to tape their original poetry on the blue poster paper covering the walls around the new reading room any time during normal library hours. Moira decided to give everyone three weeks to post their work before the voting would begin.
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