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I Fell Into Fall (Poem)

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 My latest poem about what I like about the Fall.  Well here it is, that time of year that charms so many others. The trees around us give a show of many vivid colors. The air begins to cool and crisp, as we start to layer up. Our cooking starts to change a bit, chili and cider by the cup. The new school year, brings hopes and fears. Did we really prepare? The colder, rainy weather prompts us to extend our care. A fresh season is here. Out with the old, in with the new. The upcoming holidays bring joy to all but a few. And as for me, I like the fall; in fact, I always did. I remember loving the cooler temps and leaf piles as a kid. As an adult, I still like Fall, it has to me great charm. When family gathers round, I relax from all alarm. You could say I fell into Fall; or it fell into me. Like peanut butter and jelly, me and Fall were meant to be =^) pic by Wesley Tingey from Unsplash:  A bunch of leaves that are laying on the ground - Photo on ...

Make Strides Against Breast Cancer

 I’m participating in a walk with my coworkers as part of a fundraiser for breast cancer research. Please consider donating and/or sharing if you can to help our team meet our fundraising goal of $1,000. We’re already about 75% there!  https://secure.acsevents.org/site/STR?fr_id=112447&pg=team&team_id=2866263

St. Faustina: The Divine Mercy Saint

Today is the feast day of St. Faustina; a Polish Nun and Mystic who had numerous revelations from Jesus about leading souls to learn about His Divine Mercy. Today, Jesus’ messages to Faustina are as relevant as ever. The Marian Fathers of The Immaculate Conception in Stockbridge, Mass continue to promote this same message and mission of Divine Mercy. Learn more about them at:  https://thedivinemercy.org/message/stfaustina?fbclid=PAZnRzaAUwoMpleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBwZG9mAmZkaWQWUPvSzy6HaY6ViKApUKh1ADsNlQOKdnNydGMGYXBwX2lkDzEyNDAyNDU3NDI4NzQxNAABpzcpT-QcxAt6DCHezUrjHxcOOwqKDnJ23O1-EwFkvGY4ZjdKdw4hZ2NqqUqu_aem_X2wT2xdbu7QIdxvrb7iiZQ

“The Peace of Christ”-Bishop Barron’s Sunday Sermon

 Bishop Barron explains Paul’s letter in the context of not focusing on the problems in the world, but on Jesus, who should be at the center of life. He also emphasizes the ending of the reading to focus on the beauty, truth and lovely things in the world. Problems are always going to exist, but the problems shouldn’t define our existence. Jesus and Mary themselves, align with countless saints experienced unimaginable hardships. Yet they maintained their sense of purpose and grace knowing that God calls us to a much greater place.  https://youtu.be/YS0M3uT4IyQ?is=mNY3MmsueAt4_Muq

Storm Into Savings at Always Amalfi 🍋

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Email Subscribers Save 15% Off Site-Wide  https://www.alwaysamalfi.com Looks like Mother Nature has other plans for the weekend! 🌊 With the Nor’easter rolling in, we’re giving you a little reason to stay cozy at home and shop La Dolce Vita.  EMAIL SUBSCRIBER EXCLUSIVE: Enjoy 15% OFF SITEWIDE! Whether you’ve been eyeing an Italian-inspired fashion find, a little something for your home, or the perfect gift, now is the perfect time to treat yourself. Use code: NOREASTER15 at checkout 15% off sitewide. Email subscribers only. So pour yourself an iced coffee (or a glass of wine 😉), get cozy, and enjoy a little Italian escape from home. 🇮🇹 Shop Always Amalfi and bring a little La Dolce Vita to your weekend.  ​ With Love, Amanda ​ Shop Now Follow Us      

Rep Thomas Massie speech introducing articles of impeachment against Pete Hegseth

"Fully participating member of Congress", Thomas Massie explains many of the current misses and pain points of the Trump Administration and why Dept. of War/Defense Sec Pete Hegseth should be impeached. Although he's been highly attacked and does not have much time left in Congress, Massie continues to fight for what he believes in. Some may see this as a losing battle, but in the battle itself, even small victories can be won.  https://youtu.be/3y9JGGGyyck?si=3q-NkFpF4zworDFb

Bishop Barron’s Sunday Sermon: “Will the Good of the Other.”

 Bishop Barron breaks down the readings in the context of distinguishing empathy from love. Empathy is a good thing but it is not the highest good which is love. To will the good of the other in spite of how they may perceive it. This is essential to helping people achieve better in life, by challenging them when necessary out of love and rooted in truth.  https://youtu.be/bDAXwFKONws?is=b6VwlLLss6DsShN8 For more on Bishop Barron check out his YouTube channel:  https://youtube.com/@bishopbarron?si=nPhdLFdpH0LUuYCC

Bishop Barron’s Sunday Sermon: “The Church Prevails.”

 Bishop Barron takes a look into Peter’s response to Jesus’ question of “Who do you say I am?” This marks a pivotal moment in the life of the Church with Peter becoming “The rock” on which all of his successors are built.  https://youtu.be/KDZ4GJfoMc0?is=CamhDRSdyeImFEWt For more information and insights from Bishop Barron check out his YouTube channel at:  https://youtube.com/@bishopbarron?si=maAgtLLeLH2A2fQF

“A Tiny Whispering Voice”-Bishop Barron’s Sunday Sermon

 Bishop Barron explains his personal beliefs and arguments for God’s existence. He also explains the significance of the first reading how God makes himself known not among the traditional dramatic ways but in a tiny whisper.  https://youtu.be/2NLdsgmCM9o?is=VP45HLpPJGKjb31s For more on Bishop Barron check out his YouTube channel; now over 3.5 million followers at  https://youtube.com/@bishopbarron?si=wPyfea6-fnzngL5j

God of the Fire Poem

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This poem is based on my real life experiences of living through some very scary wildfires in Oregon. Not being familiar with the area, I did my best to learn and prepare. As bad as it was, it could have been much worse. Always grateful for our firefighters who brave danger for all of us. And that includes the loggers who graciously donate their time and resources to help fire containment efforts 🛻 🪵    I was living out west in Southern Oregon. It’s beautiful surroundings, taking it all in. Then summer came; things got very dry. After a lightning storm, flames began to fly. I woke up smelling smoke, not knowing what occurred. The smoke’s thick haze caused the sun’s light to blur. Went to my phone, looked up local pages. Began to learn we had the fire of the ages. Indoors I stayed, to avoid all the smoke. I tried hard to smile, but this was no joke. My to-go bag packed, Jeep filled with gas. Ready to evacuate, but praying it will pass. I prayed for coo...

"What Life is All About"-Bishop Barron's Sunday Sermon

 Bishop Barron explains Jesus' parables in Matthew in the context of the "summon bonum" or highest good; and what life is really all about at the heart of it.  https://youtu.be/5GHyYKizSic?si=41EadKszTl8wL2MS

Shop the Latest Arrivals at Always Amalfi

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  Fresh Italian-inspired arrivals have landed at Always Amalfi! From effortless summer style to travel-ready accessories, our newest collection is designed to bring a little la dolce vita wherever you go. ​ 🍋 New Arrivals La Dolce Vita Amalfi Seaside Maxi Slip DressInspired by sun-soaked coastal villages, lemons, and sailboats, this airy Made in Italy maxi dress is the perfect piece for vacations, summer gatherings, and effortless everyday style. Lemon & Orange Print Scarf Raffia Tote BagA beautifully woven raffia tote featuring vibrant lemon and orange scarf detailing. The perfect companion for beach days, farmers markets, vacations, and sunny adventures. La Dolce Vita Striped Cosmetic PouchKeep your beauty essentials organized in style with this timeless striped cosmetic pouch—perfect for travel, your handbag, or everyday organization. ✨ Shop the new collection before your favorites are gone! Shop Now SHOP NOW SHOP NOW SHOP NOW SHOP NOW Come visit us!  We’d love to welc...

Mediterranean Mood Poem

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  The sun above gave us it’s heat Smiles on the crowds below. My first time in Europe, “Sweet!” Oh how joyed I was to go.   Greece, our first stop had great style. History and modern blended. The meals so good, made us all smile. I just wish it never ended.   Montenegro was unique. Like taking a step back in time. Classic markets and mountain peaks. Pomegranate beer and wine.   Messina Sicily was fun. A visit near our ancestry. The clock tower for 12 minutes run. Great food, drinks and camaraderie.   The cruise ship left the ports each evening. 19 floors with much to do. The sunlight on the blue sea beaming. Mediterranean, we love you!   photo by: Marios Kanellos Unsplash. 

Bishop Barron Sunday Sermon: “Your King Shall Come to You”

 Bishop Barron explains the significance of the Prophet Zachariah foretelling Jesus’ coming and how despite being the King of Kings, Jesus arrives in complete humility. He dispels many of the common notions we have about kings and indeed rules with a completely different authority.  https://youtu.be/PKwf0l4ROQ0?is=IQI3vRgFbLeQWRLF For more insightful videos from Bishop Barron check out his YouTube channel:  https://youtube.com/@bishopbarron?si=IPfAJnQbJV0sEZCs