Another prayer granted!

For several years now since my daughter left for the United States. I have been praying that her citizenship application be approved. Maribelle, now 27 years old is my only child. She was petitioned by Jun, her father before she turned 18. She has been living there since then, studying and working at the same time.

I was able to visit her about 8 years ago on a visitor's  visa. But that was only for one month since I had to return to work. I wanted to visit her again after two years, but my application for US visa was denied. In fact, it was denied three times due to the fact that my daughter is in the US. And since I declared Jun as my husband even though we are separated, the more I was not given a visa. It didnt matter to the officer at the US Embassy that I have travelled to California, New York, Chicago, Florida on the basis of tourist visas granted to me on three different years.

Everyday and every night, in fact, every single moment, I would pray and cry out loud to Mama Mary to intercede to Jesus for me: that Maribelle's citizenship be approved soon. After that, she could already petition me. I learned that the petition for a mother would take only from three to six months waiting. I implored also to St. Expeditous and all saints for their help. I know they feel how I miss my daughter.

Last Saturday, February 18, Jun replied to my email.I remember I must have emailed him a thousand times with no replies. This time, he did and told me that Maribelle is already a citizen! I almost cried with joy. Finally, after a long wait, one of my prayers has been granted.

Thank you, Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal. Thank you for beng there always for me. Even in those times when everything seemed dark, I always believed that you would not forsake me.

These photos were taken in our house, December 2012.

Thank you, Mama Mary

"Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee"

This is an oft-repeated admonition to Mama Mary especially in times of need. For me, it is just one of many prayers I have recited to our Virgin Mother not only in difficult times but also in happy times,when prayers are granted. When I feel that my life is going nowhere, I turn to her and ask for guidance. Because at my age with nothing to do but be a private staff, I sometimes ask myself, did I make the right decision to retire? What really is in store for me here in Athens in the coming years?

Just when I begin to feel depressed, I turn to Mama Mary and say, pls, strengthen my faith in the Lord. I know you have always been there for me.Help me and guide me. Then, as I look at her image, I am relieved.

This morning, my sister emailed me with the good news. Mimi, my other sister in Florida is getting better. Just the other week, she had bells palsy and her eyes seemed to deteriorate. I prayed fervently to Jesus through Mama Mary to make her well quickly. And thank God, she is now getting better.

Thank you Mama Mary.

Welcome February, love month!

February, second month of the year, love month. It has been snowing the past few days, getting colder and colder. My second time to see snow trickling down our veranda. Beautiful sight indeed. I heard that in the northern parts of Greece the snow is about 6 inches thick.I have yet to go there to experience real snow.

Thank you Mama Mary for guiding us in our familiarization rides in Athens. It has been a roller coaster ride, being lost most of the time, but getting to our destination after awhile. It seems as if my guardian angel is always with us day and night as we traverse the roads of the city. And I am not afraid to go farther and farther in our rented car, knowing that the Lord is always there with us...