Invision 2011-2012 by Madeline Cahue

Mount Assisi Academy

The gate to our future. 2012

This publication is meant to capture the literary and artistic talents of the students at Mount Assisi Academy. These works were selected and compiled by the 2011-2012 INVISION staff.

INVISION This is dedicated to all MAA students who have left their fingerprint on the hill.

Volume 46 Mount Assisi Academy 13860 Main Street Lemont, IL 604

Invision Staff 2011-2012 Moderators Marietta Harris Elizabeth LaBarge

Editors Annie Parker Madeline Cahue

Art Director Jennifer Smith

Staff Daria Ekert Emily Girdham Juliana Layman Nina LoCascio Mary Schmidt Erica VanWieren

A special thanks to the staff and contributors who helped create our magazine.

Well, Mount Assisi, I have really enjoyed all the times that we have spent together. But, I think it is time we see other people. Believe me when I say that it isn't you - it's me. I have just grown out of you. There was nothing you could do about it, so don't beat yourself up about it. But I still want to be friends, okay? By Sam Benson Valedictorian

Liv Your Life By Olivia Palutsis Liv is the name, Because I love to live life. Call me a chill sweetheart, Because I’m as cool as ice. I have long brown hair, And split ends on my pony. You can ask my friends, Because I’m their favorite homie. I bounce up like a tennis ball, And I ball like they told me, You can ask anyone, Because everybody knows me. I live my life, and love my friends, I’m so smart, I do my math in pen. My passion for fun is beyond the stars, I have a good time just driving in cars. When I grow up I dreamed of studying medicine, But when I told my parents it made their head spin. Bad to the bone, Like a stick on a stone, Light me like a candle, And see if you can handle. A girl with so much passion For the glory of fashion— I used to work for Forever21, But that was pretty dumb. Working for little money, My personality was too funny. Never take life seriously, Nobody gets out alive. That’s my life motto And I’ll live till I die. It’s hard to get, a girl with such game, But I’m really funny, And to me, everyday is sunny. 7

By Ronnie Gerlach The “famous phrase” of Soh Cah Toa was created several years ago on a cold rainy day. Four friends: Amanda, Shannon, Caitlyn, and Taylor, were taking a stroll down in the park. At first the weather was nice, dogs were barking, kids were playing; it was an all-around great day. They walked deep into the woods when all of a sudden it began to rain. The continued through the trees of the park hoping the rain would stop soon. Unfortunately, it did not. It continued to rain harder and harder. They were so far in the trees of the park already they did not know which way to go to get out of these woods, they decided to build a fort and stay there until the rain storm passed. They placed all of their goods (cell phones, iPods, jewelry under a tree for shelter as they looked for twigs and other objects for building. Amanda sat under the tree and waited while the other three looked for objects. Luckily Shannon found a tarp that would work perfectly to protect them from the rain! Amanda, the leader as well as the laziest of the bunch, sat as the other three built around her as she directed them. “Shannon, set up a hook opposite of me on the tree and hang the tarp diagonally.” Amanda demanded. “Hey, look! A right triangle!” Shannon exclaimed as she realized what she had just created. Then she said, “Okay everybody, I’ll work on the side opposite Amanda as well as the hypotenuse making sure it is stable.” “Shannon: opposite, hypotenuse…I’ll call you Soh!” Amanda said as they all joined in with laughter. Caitlyn screamed, “Hey! I want a cool nickname too! I’m setting up twigs adjacent to you and along the hypotenuse too, so what’s my name?” Amanda thought for a second and then replied, “You are now, Coh…and Taylor work on making the ground adjacent to me and the tree opposite me more comfortable for us to sit and lean on. Taylor adjacent, opposite…now you are Toa!” Amanda, Soh, Cah, and Toa all finished their personal jobs and sat under their fort until the storm ended, just in time for dinner! Their nicknames stuck and who would have guessed that these girls would be the cause of the well-known famous phrase “Soh Cah Toa!” 8

I would like to thank the faculty and students of Mt. Assisi for giving me a great four years. My favorite memories have been with the 2012 track team. For the track team, I would like to leave with them the thought to "dream big, have faith, and believe that anything is possible". I would also like the team to know that next year, while I'm running at Lewis with my new team; I will never forget my favorite team and how close we have become. Also one last message to the track team: I will be making surprise appearances at meets, so all of you better be working hard at practices next year. (: By Kaitlyn Sendzik Eileen the Bear By :Jacqui Ogrodnik Up the steep stairs and through the hall Into the brightly lit room in the back, Sitting on my large bed is no simple doll; It’s my best friend Eileen the bear. Her jaded fur is darker now. Her nubby nose is a dull pink. A little scar sits on the brow On the head of Eileen the bear. She used to have a little jade tail. She used to have a little pink bow. It’s because we would always flail That they fell off of Eileen the bear. We would dance and twirl. We would do a little jig. I was a very energetic girl When I played with Eileen the bear. What fun it was to play with her When I was still a little child. But time went by in such a blur I am too old to play with Eileen the bear. Even though I’m too old To play with my favorite toy, She is still something I love to hold. She will always be my Eileen the bear.

By Julie Novak Walking around Midway throughout the day Laughing, talking, and yelling HEY! My friends and family mean the most to me Except for when they are driving me up a tree Some days are out of control and crazy But those days help me so I do not get lazy I get picked on by most of the teachers at school But I don’t care if they think I’m a fool My friends know that I am the opposite of what the adults think So whenever I get in trouble I just give them a wink Metal in my mouth and my hair blond and knotty I know everyone in school thinks I am a little snotty I don’t care what other people think of me I am this way because of my strange family tree I know I come off as mean and unkind But if you really think that, you are obviously blind Five more demerits and I will be out the door But without me here there will be war My friends will be lost and they won’t know what to do And all of the teachers will be crying boo-hoo If you like me then you love me, and that’s not a lie But if you don’t like me than you might as well just say goodbye Get out of my life I don’t need you anymore And if you don’t get out, I will kick you to the door My name is Julie Novak and I am strange But that is one thing I am proud of, and that will NEVER change.

Shannon Friendly, hardworking, and procrastinator Twin of Bridget, a peer of the class of 2012 Lover of MAA snow days, homecoming on the hill, and plaid skirts Feels tired at 7:40, worried when the new school year begins, and impatient for the 2:18 bell Fears Monday mornings, college next year, and the occasional mystery meat Accomplished many sports, CLC activities, and French club meetings Hopes to see MAA expand, more snow days, and see more student events Chicago, Il. -

By Shannon Sullivan

My favorite memory from senior year at MAA was when Becca Wood fell asleep in Anatomy and the entire class put post-its all over her head (even Dr. Ross). - By Erin Dombrowski

Sohcatoa the Ninja By Annie Parker There once was a ninja named Sohcahtoa who lived in ancient Japan. Today he could be remembered as the Japanese version of Robin Hood. He would steal money from the evil, greedy, rich emperors and give the money to the poor people who lived in the countryside who had to fend for themselves. Of course, his missions and journeys were always dangerous, but with his skill in stealth and quickness he was always successful. The emperors would spend the rest of their lives searching out the fiend, who was scaling their castle walls and robbing their treasures, flying off into the night. But Sohcahtoa was too fast and could easily hide, and the people he cared for would never release his whereabouts. With the money and riches that he gave to the poor, parents could buy food and clothes and send their children to school to learn. One day, the math teacher Mr. Miagi was teaching his bright students how to remember the right triangle trigonometry ratios, but unfortunately, they were having trouble understanding and remembering the formulas. He thought long and hard about how he was going to help his students remember the ratios. It wasn’t long until he saw out his window, the ninja Sohcahtoa jumping from rooftops with his sack of newly grabbed treasures in hand. With a snap of his fingers, Mr. Miagi realized what he could use to help his students remember the right triangle trigonometry. The next morning he went to the board and wrote the letters S O H C A H T O A. The children recognized it as the name of their hometown hero, the ninja Sohcahtoa. Mr. Miagi pointed to each letter and said, “S O H. Sine equals opposite over hypotenuse. C A H. Cosine equals adjacent over hypotenuse. T O A. Tangent equals opposite over adjacent.” The children were ecstatic because they now understood how to remember the right triangle trigonometry formulas, thanks to the ninja Sohcahtoa. The End

Naughty Bunny Foo Foo The girls in my class say That this story is funny, But I do not see the fun Of a naughty bunny. The story is about a bunny Who runs around with mice, Then grabs them and bops them On the head which isn’t nice. Then the Fairy appears, And she warns the rabbit Not to make bopping mice On the head a habit. She gives the bunny three chances To see the error of his ways, But the bunny does not listen. It’s as if he’s in a daze. Now she gives the bunny a threat, And she disappears in a huff. Of course the bunny does not listen. He must think he’s real tough. Now I understand this is for kids, But whoever wrote this is a loon For making up such strange words. What on Earth is a “Goon?” And so the bunny continues To bop the mice on the head. The Fairy returns to see if he listened. And is mad to find him playing instead. This strange pattern continues For at least three more times. 13

It’s as if I am reading A poem with very bad rhymes. Finally, the Fairy arrives the third time, And is furious at the bunny very soon. Since he did not listen to her, She turns him into…a Goon? And that’s the end Of that little bunny. Is it really so wrong That I don’t find it funny? I’m not trying to be mean. I’m just saying what’s true. I just don’t understand That Little Bunny Foo Foo! By Jacqui Ogrodnik

Call me Ronnie By: Ronnie Gerlach

My names Veronica, please don’t call me that Just call me Ronnie and you can be my friend I am sweet and inviting like a welcome mat I live in Chicago; down the West end

Westlawn is where I live and where I’ll always be Except when I’m at cheer at St. Rita High I’m just about as sweet as unsweetened iced tea But I’m also fashionable like a bow tie

I have long dark hair and grills on my teeth I have black hole eyes that always like to wink I got a big heart with my bones down beneath Not to short not to tall, pretty average I think

I’m almost always grounded, yeah I’m over it I’d rather be at home than with my friends instead Ask my parents I’m an angel, they will admit Always have my headband halo around my head

I hate when everything is just so serious 15

My goal is to make life fun and make some jokes I can’t control my excitement, I’m delirious But I also need a nap every day, like old folks.

I’m the opposite of normal like a flying pig I’m an odd sister, friend, and daughter But I can be serious, you just gotta dig I try hard at school, but I should try harder

Eminem’s my idol; some may think that’s strange I dislike the school, but don’t think I’d ever transfer Since we began freshman year, so much has changed I miss the old days and the way things were

I’d give anything to go back in time Perhaps to grade school, those St. Mary’s days High school years have been quite a climb But I’ve learned so much in so many ways

I don’t think before I act, I just go with the flow One day I hope to be classy like Paris I overuse words like fersure and fasho I love everyone, but most of all Mrs. Harris

Mount Assisi left me with a Friends I will have forever Intelligence to help me succeed New outlooks on life and faith Grounds for a strong faith Excellent teachers to inform me Real hands on experience with technology Precious moments never forgotten Ring in which I’m proud to place the crest Independence News Broadcasting Job to help me plan my career The three best years of my life so far Tabitha Thompson

How I ever will I’ve always known exactly where I want to be, I’ve just never known how I will ever get there, I’ve always wanted to leave my fingerprint behind, Make people know that I’ve been here, I want to be wonderful, I just don’t know how I ever will. By Betsabe Cisneros

I am the best there is, MAA NHS I am a wiz. When it comes to Mathletes I am a nerd, I am on Varsity softball forget what you heard. My personality is strong I got a lot of impudence, I always say no and stay above the influence. I’m a jogger, don’t really like to run, Once you get to know me you realize I’m a lot of fun. I show a lot of respect to all of my friends. If I don’t know you and you add me on Facebook, it will pend. Sharon Desparrois

My fingerprint is what I leave at MAA It is left on the desks of my classes Written essays, projects and homework. My finger print stays on the times I give To missions, donate paper, and bring Awareness to Global Warming. My fingerprint is what belongs to MAA And will always be there to stay. Alex Garcia

New Girl Problems Starting out anew can never be easy, But in Mount Assisi Academy, I was greeted so sweetly. Some made jokes and told me to get in my new girl cage where I belong, I never got mad, and I even played along. In an all girls’ school, I found much more drama, But I could deal with it instead of running to my momma. I thrive to be always there for my friends when they need me, Because that’s the way it should always be. I hope I’ve left my fingerprint in your heart, Since I’ve been trying so hard since the start. Mount Assisi Academy is my home and keeps me sane. I can’t picture myself happier anywhere but here, I hope I’ve had an impact on you guys so you remember me if I die and disappear. I’m going to finish this up now, and leave you with this, I hope we all continue to be friends throughout our lives, so that later in life we can reminisce. Danielle Herbst

Fingerprints They’re something special about everyone, And each makes us a different person. We leave them everywhere we go So other people will know. Some tiny, some great They all hold one’s fate. Fingerprints leave stories to tell, Especially at a person’s last farewells. So leave your mark, Just like Joan of Arc Change the setting with your feelings, emotions, and thoughts, Don’t ever feel distraught. Fingerprints, fingerprints, Linger a hint. Natalie Mateja

Fingerprint As she lies in her bed She sits there thinking But her thoughts canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t tame her tears. Her life replays in her mind As she thinks of the Laughter she has shared. Than another thought appears and She is left there to live in fear. She sees herself looking at a mirror As she tries to search for herself, She looks down at her hands and fingers. She closes her eyes as a tear rolls down And then she placed her hand on the mirror. Memories replay of those good times she shared In school, with friends, and with family. She then sees a hand reach out for help, And as she takes it, she realizes all the fingerprints She has left. Geanina Liston

All Because of You I came to this school alone, seeking to start a new chapter Not knowing what to do or what I was after. I came across all of you and though it’s been bitter and sweet It sure was a treat to be welcomed by the greatest people I’ll ever meet. I’m hoping to have affected every person here, and to think One day we’ll graduate I’m sure to shed a tear. Every single one of you girls has helped me through my fears, I cherish everyday that I have left here. From starting as strangers and ending up as friends Here at MAA our bond will never be broken. Gina Serio

MAA is the school for me I have learned a lot of different things that will help me in the future The teachers I’ve had taught me so much My faith is now strong and I’m completely in touch The friends I have made have helped shape me Even when school got hard and I wanted to scream Mount Assisi has left me with a big fingerprint Of the years of my life I will never forget Maddie Kallianis

Dad I was put in an orphanage in Bucharest, Romania when I was 1; I then met the person that would mean the most to me, my Dad. One night I came home from going out with friends and I couldn’t find my dad. I then found him in his room lying there coughing and looking as pale as a ghost. I went right to my mom and asked what was going on and, my mom simply said I’m taking him to the hospital without saying anything. I didn’t see my dad for a few days and going to school was the hardest part, not including going home and no one being there but me and my brother. A few days after that my mom came home from work and said we are going to the hospital to visit my dad. We got there, and right away we got brought to the intensive care unit, which I didn’t think it was that much of a big deal at the time. When I walked into his room I started balling, it was the most horrible sight I’ve seen; my father with tons of needles in him and he was connected to a bunch of stuff. My dad then told me to come here and gave me a big hug which I will never forget the comfort that gave me, he then whispered into my ear and said don’t worry too much I’ll be fine and I will be home soon. You know when parents say that to make you feel better and you do, well I didn’t I worry because I wanted him to go with me home that second. Hours later we had to leave and my dad wanted to walk us out, we were almost to the door and I remember just looking back at him and seeing the pain he was feeling in his watery eyes. Half a month later he finally came home, and me not knowing why he was in the intensive care unit so long thought everything was going to be back to normal, but I was all wrong. Turns out my dad had to have a part of his colon removed because of an infection and that day he went to the hospital, if he waited another hour he would have died. When all of that happened I really came to appreciate the things my dad does for me, he has always been there, and I can say with my chin high that he is my best friend who I would go to him for anything. He has been so busy making sure I have a good education that sometimes I feel he does too much for me and not himself. Being this close to my father is probably the best thing a girl could ask for, because I wouldn’t ask it any other way. Sometimes we talk about marriage, and he always says how I am going to marry a fat bald guy just like him, but you know now thinking I wouldn’t mind that at all. Maggie Liston

Deep into the darkness peering, long I stood there, wondering, fearing Doubting, dreaming dreams no mortals ever dared to dream before; But the silence was unbroken, and the stillness gave no toke, And the only word there spoken was the whispered word, Lenore?, This I whispered, and an echo murmured back the word, “Lenore!” Merely this, and nothing more.

Back into the chamber turning, all my soul within me burning, Soon again I heard a tapping, something louder than before, “Surely,” said I, “surely, that is something at my window lattice. Let me see, then, what thereat is, and this mystery explore. Let my heart be still a moment, and this mystery explore. “ ‘Tis the wind, and nothing more.”

Open here I flung the shutter, when, with many a flirt and flutter, In there stepped a stately raven, of the saintly days of yore. Not the least obeisance made he; not a minute stopped or stayed he; But with mien of lord or lady, perched above my chamber door. Perched upon a bust of Pallas, just above my chamber door, Perched, and sat, and nothing more. MaryKate Feldner

Chapter Three: Vacation in Mexico.

One of my happiest moments is when I was in Mexico; I was about five years old when I visited Mexico. I went with my mom, brother, grandparents, my nino and my three great aunts. We went in a van that fit exactly 9 people, and the car ride was three days long. When we finally reached Mexico we drove through the mountains at night. It was really scary because there were no railings and the only lights we had were the car headlights and light posts here and there. We stayed in Mexico for a month and visited 6 cities.; one of those cities being my mom’s home city. We visited Veracruz, Tijuana, Michoacán, Torreon, Puebla, and Monterrey. We visited family and stayed with them for a couple of days. Then we went to the ocean and my brother and I played in the sand and hung out with our family. My nino paid for me to get my hair braided. That was probably one of my worst memories from Mexico because when the lady was braiding my hair she would pull it and it would hurt so bad. When we would drive through the cities I would see beautiful colored houses like pink, blue or yellow. One of my favorite memories was climbing a pyramid with my nino, mom and brother. It was really scary to go down because it was so steep and it didn’t have a rail, there was just rope that you can hold on to. My mom was so scared she had to come down sitting. I would revisit Mexico any day.

Special family member vignette I have a family member that means everything to me. She’s there when you need her, and is always willing to help with whatever you need help with. With two kids of her own, Monika and Paul, she treats me as if I were one of them. She covers for me when I am about to get in trouble, and sticks up for me when I need someone on my side. No matter what the situation is, she tries to make the best of it. Though it may cause arguments between her and another family member, she always has my back covered when I need it most. I can call her whenever I need to and go to her for about anything. She is my aunt, my mother’s sister, who means the world to me. Without her, I may not have been able to find myself.

Mother Happy, Loving, Helpful Can’t live without In my shadow I see her She is my life, my love, my happiness That came from Above. -Natalie Gath

My Friendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Basement

I walk down this narrow stairwell to look at the large room where so many good memories were made. As I look out at the room, my eyes are drawn to the sitting area. A large TV sits at the head with different gaming systems sitting in front of it. Littered by the gaming systems are a plethora of games from my childhood. I remember sitting there with my friend mashing the different buttons on the game controllers hoping it will help us do better in whatever game we were playing at the time. As my eyes continue to wander, I notice the faux fur carpet on the floor. So many nights have laid there wide awake talking about anything and everything with my closest friends. The carpet rests at the foot of a large red futon. It is old and well worn but obviously well cared for. I remember sitting on the futon as a child laughing about the silliness of the movie we happened to be watching. I look around the room again, eyes stopping on the oldfashioned Coca-Cola machine. I remember always taking the classic bottles of soda from there, even if I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like Coca-Cola, because I thought the bottles were cool. I move to sit down on that old futon and take another look around the room. There are so many funny and happy memories that have been made in this basement. It has been so long since the first time I descended into the warm and homey space; but even now as I return, I am reminded of the memories I made as a child in this basement. -MaryKate Feldner

The Story of Us All from the start There have been fingerprints left on my heart Telling stories that will never allow us to be torn apart All making up one living piece of art. By Lea George

The Witch By: Tabitha Thompson It rolls off my tongue in a weird way. Tabitha. I was named after a popular TV show bewitched. As a kid everyone asked me to wiggle my nose and I couldn’t understand the connection. Until I saw the witch wiggle her nose on TV. A witch. I was named after a witch? I decided it didn’t suit me well at a young age. So I was introducing myself as Alexandra. Being five and having an identity crisis is not the easiest thing. As I grew up I learned the significance in my name. My mom liked it and picked it especially for me. It’s different and uncommon like the name of a Givenchy Perfume. I now believe it describes me perfectly: different and uncommon.

A Happy Time for Me It was August 6. My friends and I were going to the Brad Paisley concert. We had our tickets in hand waiting outside gate 5 for 4:00 p.m. to come around. So many people wore plaid, jeans, jean shorts, boots, and don’t forget the cowboy hats. It was as if it was a small Tennessee in Tinley Park, Illinois. We had lawn seats which weren’t bad at all. People laid out blankets and sat with one another having a great time, just waiting for the music to start. Brad Paisley wouldn’t come on until later. There were two opening acts, Jerrod Niemann and Blake Shelton. When the sun was completely down, he came out. With his white country hat on, guitar in hand, ready to greet his thousands of fans, Brad Paisley. At this point everyone jumped up. This wasn’t the time to sit and ‘enjoy’ the show; it was the time to get lost in the music. And for just one second you’re away from all your troubles and you don’t have a care in the world. That’s the great thing about country music it’s the truth about real life. It was such a fun-filled, exciting night. People screamed and danced. It was a night no one wanted to end. My friends and I had an awesome time, just being able to get lost in the music together. It was surely one of the best concerts I’ve been to and one I will not forget.

Betsabe By: Betsabe Cisneros Betsabe is a Hebrew name meaning daughter of an oath. When I was little I would hate my name with a passion. I hated the first day of school because the teachers would always mispronounce my name. They would always say it in a stupid, funny, ugly embarrassing way that the whole class would just laugh. I was really shy back then so it was embarrassing to me and I wouldn’t even tell the teacher the correct pronunciation so the whole school year they would say my name all wrong. I once told my mom that when I grew up I was going to change my name. She told me I would need a lot of money to do that and I told her I didn’t care, that I was going to change my name to something easier like Maria, Fatima, Teresa, or Jasmine. My mom then told me why she had named me Betsabe. She first asked me if I wanted to have a name that many girls had and if I didn’t want to be unique. Unique is what she wanted me to be, my name wasn’t heard at all when she found it in the bible. She had chosen my name really carefully because she wanted me to be different. Back then I didn’t even pay close attention to what she had told me. I kept hating my name and still had the plan of changing it. It was sophomore year when I noticed how beautiful my name is and how unique. I learned that my name is the only thing I have and nobody can take it away. My name says it all about me one word, unique. I was unique with the wonderful name my mom had given me. I realized that pronunciation did matter. I am not any Bathsheba or Batesabay. My name is BETSABE and pronunciation does matter.

A Special Hero By: Natalie Mateja My mother is someone I look up to and she will always be there. I never met my grandmother; she died when my mom was 18. From that point on, my mom had to move on through life without being able to go to her mom when in doubt. My mother is a very strong person. She has a child with a disability and I think just being able to handle a disabled child is something most people can’t do. Learning to accept the fact that her daughter will never be normal is something that requires a lot of strength and understanding. God picked her for a reason to have a child like that. And all I have to say is, he picked the right one. She is very understanding and loving. She’s a best friend and a mom all at once. She’s always there for me when I need her the most. She encourages me to do the best I can, but is there to support me in my decisions. My mom always makes sure everything is alright and things are going smoothly. I just really look up to her because she takes on great responsibilities. In my eyes she’s “Super mom”. 31

Chapter 1: Maddie By: Maddie Kallianis My name is Madeline Colette Patricia Kallianis. My name is very special to me because it represents me and my family and I am proud of my family and where I come from. My last name seems to give a lot of people of trouble, people have many ways of trying to say it. I love my last name because it refers to my heritage, my heritage is very important to me and where my family came from. My uncles gave me a nickname when I was little, as Madeleno, and all my little cousins have taken to it. My middle name is from my Grandma Colette, she is the funniest and the most generous person that I have ever meet. My confirmation is for my Grandma Pat but I never I had the pleasure of meeting her. My name is very important to me because when they see my name they put that with family and I want to represent my family proudly.

We Made Our Mark By: Sharon Desparrois Garfield Ridge, I’ve lived there since I could remember, on the block of 52nd and Neenah. It was a peaceful neighborhood in Chicago that started off great, but like every other neighborhood, it is slowly turning to gang violence. It’s located between two busy streets, Harlem and Central, which I was not allowed to pass. I was always found at the parks when there was nothing to do. Down the block from my house was Normandy Park, up a block was Byrne Park, and a few more blocks down was Stars & Stripes. Sometimes if my friends and I felt more adventures we’d ride our bike to either Valley Forge or Hale, other parks in the neighborhood that were about 10 minutes away. Three blocks up from my house was Archer Avenue where the local McDonalds, 7-11, and Lindy’s Chili, were. Down the street and two blocks over was my school, St. Daniel the Prophet, “The number one school in the archdiocese,” as our principal would say. I attended that school from kindergarten until I graduated eighth grade. My house was and always will be the hangout spot; it always had something going on. With a 21 feet round pool in your backyard all you could do during the summer was host amazing pool parties. After we got our two dogs my dad got the backyard done, by taking out the grass and covering the ground with rocks. This did not turn out to be such a good idea if you do not have a deck. In the back yard we also have a trampoline which now is a little dangerous to jump on since both of my sisters had either sprained or broken their ankles on it. We also always have bonfires or movie nights at our house when there is nothing else to do. My family defiantly made our mark on that block.

There are many things Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll remember from Mt. Assisi. Every school day may seem boring, But when I think about it as a whole, I know I will miss the high school days.

Mt. Assisi has given me many things But my friends are gift I appreciate most. Even if I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stay close with them, The memories will stay forever.

Seeing the hill will bring me back All to the fun and memorable times The whole school is a fingerprint We each just make up one part. Mary Kate Deely

Destruction Pass through security Alert ground personnel Attempt to communicate Attack Thirty-seven minute delay Killing everyone on board Hundreds within the building Crash A lot of smoke Fire trucks screaming Contact love ones Explosion Another plane just hit Initiate evacuation Choked with debris Burn Burning for 56 minutes 10 seconds to fall Cloud of debris and dust Collapse Shields 13 people Search for survivors Rescue workers Together Maddy Hollowed

Things Will Get Better

Even on those days When times seem tough Days seem lost Friends seem distant But troubles are near When the pain won’t stop And your heart won’t heal

As if every obstacle is your to face

You forget what you have Where you’ve been And where you long to be one day

Slowly you lose grasp of who you are

On days like this remember whose you are Who made you Who will always love you

In times of trouble He is watching and waiting for you To come to your senses To stop and pray Trust him to guide you throughout your day

Because as long as you have God on your side There will always be sunshine after the rain Rachel Sepulveda

My Family Vacation By MaryKate Wetzel

As a family that is spread out across the country, it is always a joy to gather together on a vacation-whether it is for a weekend or a week- to spend time with one another. This summer, my family and I were able to spend time with each other when my older brother, Keegan, was home from the Naval Academy on his sixteen day summer break. We were going up to the Juriga’s (another Naval Academy midshipmen/football player’s family) cabin for the Fourth of July weekend as we did the year prior. For once, everybody was home and able to go, so we were off to Apple Canyon Lake for the weekend. Although the families arrived at Apple Canyon Lake at different times, we were all able to go up for the weekend. As we were finally all together on Saturday for lunch, we began reminiscing old times and making our agenda for this trip. First, we had to have our lunch or “feeding time,” which is a very sacred and important part of the day in our families. As the boys, Mr. Juriga, my dad, Keegan, Jake, Luke, and Chris devoured their food, and the girls, Mrs. Juriga, my mom, Elly, Kim, and I ate ours; we began planning the day. We decided to all go on the speed boat to go wakeboarding, tubing, water skiing, knee boarding, and swimming first, while my dad stayed back with the dogs, Dylan & Marley, due to the capacity of the boat and interests. After these water sports we got ready for the firework show on the lake. This experience and view was beautiful with all of the boats out on the water with their light on, the fireworks going off overhead, and the boys playing guitar and singing! On Sunday, we went to take our picture on the “rock” that we also drove, jumped, and flipped off of. Then we had our annual beach volleyball games-boys vs. girls-and swam in the

lake…until we got stranded at the beach again as the dads had left with the truck and taken the beach bag with the key for the boat in it along with them who weren’t answering their cell phones. This occurred two years in a row for Elly, Kim, and I, but we were eventually able to make it back after two boys walked back to get the key and getting the boat’s extra-manual steered motor-running. On our last night at the cabin, we had our annual bonfire game & s’more night that Luke and Chris were able to start on their own. This night is always filled with the best memories and times as we play “Catch Phrase” and eat s’mores all gathered on an amazing summer night! After leaving the cabin on Monday afternoon, we were all headed for the Juriga’s new farm house in Batavia to have Fourth of July barbecue. At their home, we got to go pet the horses in the stables, shoot BB guns, and archery at the foam deer’s and targets, eat and more. As the hot sun beat down on us, we ate our delicious ribs, cheeseburgers, and more before relaxing around the air conditioned house. Later in the cool summer air, the kids raced around the property on the ranger, dirt bike, and four-wheeler for fun. As the night came to a close, and it was time for the Wetzel Family to pack up, say our good-bye’s, and head on home, we got out the fireworks to end our exciting and memory filled trip with a bang!

Rising Up from the Ashes Good evening 2,996 deaths Today our very freedom came under attack 19 hijackers The victims were in airplanes or in their offices 2,977 victims Mom and dads The dead included 8 children Friends and neighbors 200 people jumped to their deaths from the burning towers Thousands of lives were suddenly ended 2,606 in New York City in the towers and on the ground By evil, despicable acts of terror 343 New York City Fire Department firefighters Have filled us with disbelief, terrible sadness and a quiet, unyielding anger 23 New York City Police Department officers Acts of mass murder were intended to frighten our nation into chaos 37 Port Authority Police Department officers They have failed. 15 EMTs Our country is strong. About 292 people were killed at the street level Terrorist attacks By burning debris and falling bodies of those who had jumped Can shake the foundations As many as 600 people were killed instantly or trapped Of our biggest buildings 292 people were killed at the street level But they cannot 1 bomb sniffling dog named Sirius Touch the foundation of 2,000 first responders injured America. 1,366 people died who were at the North Tower Shattered steel, but Average age of the dead in New York City was 40 40

Cannot dent the steel The oldest an 82 year-old passenger on flight 11 Of American resolve The youngest victim was Christine Lee, 2.5 year-old on flight 175 Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re the brightest beacon for freedom 14 people survived from South Tower And opportunity in the world All are mentally scarred And no one will keep 19 hijackers That light from shining 2,977 victims Alexis Topel

Give a Little of Your Own

Life is meant to be lived The sun is meant to shine

Days are meant to be lived to the fullest Each day full of new adventures With no regrets holding me back Just flying free And being me â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Cause life is too short To hold grudges And all that gossip in between

Smile at someone Make their day Count your blessings in every way

Be grateful and thankful Give a hug Share some love

For everyone has a right To a blessed day

Rachel Sepulveda

The following is an excerpt from Chapter 1 of the short story:”The Chronicles of the Fuzzy Giggle Blob Monster” by Courtney Kosiewicz & Emily Walsh.

As Daisy Doodle was walking down the streets of Las Vegas, she got a text. It was from her best friend Bethany Brooke. “Where are you?” Bethany texted. “Why?” Daisy texted back. “Help me.” “Where are you?” “I’m in the alley on Impassioned Street.” “Okay. I’m coming.” “Hurry! It’s coming!” Daisy put her purple phone in her pocket and ran to Beth. She didn’t understand what Beth meant by, “It’s coming,” but she just kept on running. Daisy finally got to the alley on Impassioned Street. She called out: “Where are you?” but all she heard was her one echo. Again, she called, “Beth, where are you?” Daisy looked around trying to find Beth, but all she saw was Impassioned Street.

Impassion Street was an alley. There were garbage cans on the left and right side of Daisy. A squirrel ran across in front of Daisy. Daisy then heard a reply from Beth. “I’m here,” Beth called. Daisy saw her best friend, leaning on the wall, with scars and bruises covering her arms and face. “Oh my God! Beth, what happened to you?” Daisy rushed over to Beth to see if she was okay.

First day of freshman year, My mom says, “Wake up, dear” She’s full of so much cheer, But I’m full of so much fear. I go to the corner of my block, I see the bus and I’m full of shock. I step on the bus and there are no open seats. I just want to go home and hide under my sheets. I sit next to a girl, I do not know. I hope my nervousness doesn’t show. When I get to school I look like a fool. I get my combination and find my locker I cannot open it, what a shocker! I go to the library for the key, Everyone stares at me because I’m a “Freshie”. Alyssa Pedersen

Freshman New school, new me, I am a fresh one you see, I need to know the high school key, Tell me, who shall I be?

I try to be a lady, But they only see a freshman baby, I must create a MAA memory, Tell me, who shall I be?

I need to know the control key, For the secret into this family tree, Who can I go see? To tell me, who shall I be?

You say I am free? Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the key, To be full of glee, Is just to be freshman me? Nina LoCascio

Fluff Anyone? By Angela Van Henkelum “Noodles!” I yelled throughout the forest. Where could have that dog gone to now? It was a beautiful day in May, the sky was crystal blue with white puffy clouds, and Noodles had run off on me again. She was always running off, nut usually she would come back when I called for her. “Noodles!” I yelled again. “Noodles, where are you?” Still no answer. I sighed and continued to walk through the forest, going deeper into the thick mass of tress. Once I thought that it couldn’t get any thicker, a small clearing where a creek was had come into my sight. I cautiously walked forward into the clearing, and once I did I heard Noodles barking. “Where on Earth have you been?” I said to Noodles as I picked her up. She began to whine at me and yap, and quickly jumped out of my arms. “What is going on with you?” I asked her. She looked like she was trying to dig at something and as she was digging I heard a clinking noise. As soon as the noise was heard, a spaceship appeared. Not just a spaceship, an invisible spaceship. Obviously it was trying to hide itself, but once it appeared, it was bright orange and deep blue. It was no bigger than a queen sized bed, and the colors kept flashing and fading as if they were trying to decide whether to be there or not. Finally, the colors stayed, and out came small little people the size of Barbie-Dolls that looked like mushrooms. “We have come,” said what seemed to be the leader, “to extract the hair of a rare species, a species that is dying on our planet. We may cause this creature great pain, but there is nothing

you can do to stop us!” They were the cutest things I had ever seen, but I didn’t understand what they meant by causing a creature great pain. “What are you talking about?” I asked them, “What sort of creature do you speak of?” “That kind,” he said, pointing to Noodles. She immediately looked at me with a confused look on her face. “My…dog?” I asked him. He shook his head with such fierceness; it took everything in me not to laugh. “Well, you can have a hair of my dog. It won’t hurt her.” His expression suddenly softened. “Really,” he asked me, “you mean it?” I smiled at him and nodded. The leader ordered two of the other little marshmallow people over to Noodles to take a hair, and they quickly did. They ran back to their spaceship and the rest of the little marshmallow people loaded into the ship. “The people of Fluffuloton, and all the Fluffulians thank you,” the leader said, as he graciously bowed. The spaceship took off, and I took Noodles home. As I arrived home, my mom looked worried. She kept asking me questions, like where I had been, if Noodles was alright, and what happened. I simply answered, “Nothing Mom. It’s just been a really peculiar morning.”

Freshman year is so great! Going from an eighth grader to a freshman was so great. Life is too short to complain and hate. Going to high school is really amazing. We go to Church once a month to be praising. We start the day off with French to Religion. Then heading off to English. The day goes on with more subjects. There is no time to waste. Traveling fast through passing periods is like we are being chased. The teachers greet you with a warm “Hello.” There are many test and essays. What more can I say. I can’t wait for sophomore year. And also to see my fellow peers. Carla Roszczybiuk

Freshman Year A new Journey begins. Walking into the doors of high school, Butterflies in my stomach Clustered thoughts in my head Not knowing what to do or say And not knowing a single person

Weeks went by in school Homework was getting hard Tests were getting stressful I was getting overwhelmed

Quarter 1 went by in school And started quarter 2 I made many friends Class was getting fun I began to like school Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hope that stays that way Isabella Gutkin

Freshman Year On a warm summer morning in mid-August. Although this summer was long, this school year will seem like the longest. Say goodbye to 8th grade year, Even though it left some tears. On the bus that very first day, I could say anything except hip-hip-hooray. I found my locker number 388, It opened up smoothly as though it was fate. Walked up to first period with my best friend, Jorie, Found my seat, oh, what a glory! The teacher said “bonjour” I said it back, I thought I was wrong so I almost had a heart attack. The bell just rung, I’m late to religion, Dropped all my books, which caused a collision. On to English, which is period three, I jumped for joy and I was fuled with glee. Almost lunchtime, but what comes next, Yay, computer time, I’ve got info tech! Then there’s: study, lunch, and homeroom, Oh, how I wish I was in my bedroom. On to seventh, which is math, I really hope I start a new wrath. Last is bio learning about cells, Yes! There it is the going home bell! Now that I’m home I had a very nice day, Now that I’m a freshman I can say hip-hip-hooray!! Olivia Wozniak 51

Freshman Year Freshman year has been fun, Sophomore year has yet to come, We are students of MAA, Hopefully high school goes my way. This school is full of pride, All the freshmen by my side, As we go to school with glee, It is a great family. 3 more years to go, Seniors say the time will flow, Then itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time for graduation, This is a time for celebration. Dana LoCascio

Day One Freshmen were scared on the first day, And did not know what to say, Freshmen had no clue what to do, And saw no familiar faces that they knew As the day went on, freshmen got used to the new place, They began to know each and every face. The teachers were nice, And gave them good advice, Freshmen were happy to say, that they made it through their first day! Katie Albanese

Freshmen of MAA Fresher than the rest Running from class to class Enjoying the high school life Sitting in classes, trying to keep up Hoping to hear the final school bell Making new friends Adding on to our knowledge Nothings harder than trying to open our locker By: Katie Magliano

Being a freshman at MAA Being a freshman at MAA, Is pretty great, I’d have to say We may be the youngest of them all, But here at school you don’t have to feel small. I love big sister/little sister day, And joining sports I love to play So don’t be nervous about starting, Because at MAA, everyone’s cool! Nicole Pratl

Kylie Blonde, Short, Blue-eyed Daughter of Erin & Andrew Who loves dance, volleyball, and Blackhawks Who needs friends, family, and happiness. Who fears centipedes, failing, and death. Who’d like to see Australia. A student of Mt. Assisi Academy. Freshman Kylie McGivney

Freshman

Friendly Ready Eager Scared Hopeful Moody Athletic New Meghan Jahn

Freshman Year When I first walked down the hall It was hard to believe it was fall New faces, new teachers, everything new. It was hard not to feel blue. Soon I met brand new friends. Volleyball started and the fun never ends. Thanksgiving, Christmas, Happy New Year. Finals are over, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s give a big cheer. Second Semester started and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time for more fun. Freshman year is almost fun. Kaylee Springer

We are the Freshmen of MAA You know you’re a freshman at MAA… When you walk in a pack to your classes all day. You know you’re a freshman at MAA… When you have the ugliest skirts of all. You know you’re a freshman at MAA… When your block schedule switches every other day. You know you’re a freshman at MAA… When you think there’s a pool and there’s not one at all. You know you’re a freshman at MAA… When you’re the only ones whose laptops don’t work. You know you’re a freshman at MAA… When you’re sometimes told that you can’t. You know you’re a freshman at MAA… When your big sisters dress you up like a dork. And, you know you’re a freshman at MAA… When you fail after the first mass with the chant! Madeline Cahue

Freshman I walked through the doors On the very first day. Scared? Nervous? I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what to say. I was worried about not fitting in, so I sucked it up, and lifted my chin. I wanted to turn back to eighth grade year, but I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t, this was freshman year. There are so many stories, about drama and fights. But then there are others about love at first site. I found out who my true friends are not. And who the ones I love a lot. So here I am today. Enjoying high school From day to day. Gabriela Suarez

Freshman This is my freshman year, I have made a lot of friends here. From Algebra to Spanish, Hoping one day, the homework assignments will vanish. As I walk down the hall, You know the season is fall. Getting ready for the Turkey Bowl game, To miss it would be a shame. As we run the hill, We perfect our skill. For when we are on the court, We never get stopped short. When it comes to the game, As you all know, we belong in the hall of fame. Playing sport by sport each season, Working hard gives us that reason. As the week comes to the end, You'll see all the blue and white will send. A message to everyone, That the school on the hill has the most fun. Sarah Spencer

A New Beginning The start of something new Finding a new friend or two A new place to go to everyday Also a place to go to pray New subjects and new books Starting over with a new look Riding the bus up the hill Learning new things I can and will Being a freshman is hard and fun You must be on guard and you will have won Megan James

Freshman A student that is almost on their own Walking through the high school doors â&#x20AC;&#x153;Little freshies,â&#x20AC;? upper classman will say More homework and essays on the way Tests to study, Maybe with a new buddy Three years will come by fast To go to college and think about the great MAA past By: Kimberly Cyscon

Learning a Lesson from a Robot By: Kaylee Springer When you lie in a small town that no one has ever heard of, you experience strange things, like finding a rocket ship in the middle of town. It was an average day here and the people were doing their everyday activities. I was walking through town and I saw that there was a rocket ship there. Why a rocket ship is here is beyond me. The rocket ship had a box like shape to it, and it was rather small. It was a very colorful rocket too, one of the sides was red, the other yellow. On top of the rocket there was a smaller triangular shape that had a window in the front. There was a door closer to the bottom of it. After a while the door to it opened and a small robot came out of it. “Hello my name is Joanna the robot, and I came here to clean,” she said and looked around the town, “and it looks like there is going to be a lot of cleaning involved.” Everyone went on with their daily business. Meanwhile, Joanna went around the town and started cleaning everyone’s home. She cleaned everyone’s house except for Old Man Killing’s home. He was a mean old man who disliked people. Whenever someone walked on his lawn he would yell at them and tell them to leave. He once yelled at Little Jimmy, who was trying to get his ball from his lawn. Once Joanna arrived at his house he started yelling at her. “Get off my lawn, I don’t need a robot to clean my house!” he yelled. “You need a robot to clean your heart!” she retorted. Old Man Killings realized that he was wrong and he let Joanna clean his house. As she cleaned his house she talked to him and taught him about being nice. He learned his lesson. Satisfied with her work, Joanna decided to go home. As I saw the rocket ship leave I decided to go home. When I got home I wasn’t sure what happened, but then again this is one strange town and it wasn’t going to get any more normal.

You are… She's pretty, skinny, and smart. All the boys want her. And what are you? You are beautiful; you’re just the right size, and a sheer genius, You don't need all the boys it’s just drama, What you need are your friends, You think you're all alone but you never are,

Don't shut them out. She has friends all around 24/7, but they are just there for show, Your friends are like stars, you can't always see them, but you know they're there. She has the most expensive clothes, and goes to a big school, You wear Target clothes, and go to a small school. Well Target is pretty cool, and at least your teachers know you, and you know your whole class.

She's out every weekend with friends, partying it up. You stay home, and spend quality time with family; at least you'll remember those good times. She might be all those things and have all those things, and give the portrayal of a perfect life, But she's thinking the same about you,

Because you are perfect to her, just as much as she's perfect to you. Kylie McGivney

Freshman Freshmen are tiny Getting picked on by others Don’t be like others Clare Wasilewska

Freshmen Freshmen fourteen young and free Starting high school at Mount Assisi New friend’s new fun Lots to learn lots to know Teachers working hard to make our brains grow New semester already here Half way there this marvelous year New classes new notebooks new schedule for me So glad to me back at Mount Assisi Freshmen year is such a blast can’t wait to finish the rest Alexandra Barrett

Freshman on Varsity Being a freshman on varsity Can be kind of tough I am the youngest Like that’s not enough With older girls on the team Can be fearful But throughout the season I learn so much from them I know all the girls Because we are a small team We laugh all the time And not one is mean We practice all week Our dances we learn The music is creative Yet some I haven’t heard As a freshman I might not know the dance to a tee But I know if I don’t get something My team is there to help me With all the new changes That I was taught I might not have them yet But that’s not all I got I will dance all four years On the dance team Wanting to improve my dance skills Because I’m a freshman on varsity Juliana Layman 63

The Beginning of a new year First day, fear fills my heart, freshman year is about to start. The feeling of excitement all around, new friends are to be found.

Finally coming out of my shell, new stories to tell. Teachers always there lending an ear, helping you through your freshman year.

Being part of the dance team, was once a dream. Tryouts for track will come, and making the team would be awesome.

The difficulty of opening lockers, soon fills the hall with laughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. The day ends with a heart filled with joy, many memories to enjoy. Shyann Koenig

Freshmen Say goodbye to 8th grade year, Freshmen year is finally here! Seeing new faces I never knew, Meeting new people that’s what I wanted to do. Walking down the high school hallways, Seeing familiar faces, always. Being freshmen was my dream But the first day wasn’t what it seemed to be. Lesette Valdez

Freshmen Thus far as time flies past, freshman year has been a blast, from project to project, from class to class. Coming here filled with fear, not sure I should spend four years, but then I learned as time went past, I’m glad to be a part of this freshman class. Aaliyah Griffin

Freshman Fourteen year old young girls Steeping into a freshman world Take a deep breath and don't look back. Cause from here on everything' will not change back. Freshman year everything is new New teachers, new friends and even a new school. New lessons, new rules and new plunges To overcome all the new challenges Joslyn Cortez Being a Freshman Meansâ&#x20AC;Ś Being a freshman meansâ&#x20AC;Ś Being nervous Jumpy excited Motivation Newbie Growing up Friendship Memories Happiness First impressions Acceptance Laughs Firsts Creativity Live, Laugh, Love Class of 2015 Sarah Degnan

I am young and curious, I wonder if anyone looks up to me. I hear birds chirping in the dawn of the morning, I see my life going by quickly. I want to find myself and know who I am going to be, I am young and curious.

I pretend that I am happy when I am actually sad, I feel like I am independent, and on my own. I touch the hearts of many, I worry when I see storms. I cry when I am upset and feeling vulnerable, I am young and curious.

I understand that Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m still young and still have the rest of my life to live, I say I want to grow up and be on my way to a new chapter in my life. I dream of being famous, I try to be the best person I can be. I hope to reach my dreams and live up to my full potential, I am young and curious. Katie Magliano

Every day I see their face A face filled with sorrow A face filled with shame "Ashamed in me?" I ask myself No, impossible It must be something else Every day they look away Away from me with the same ashamed face. I feel as if I have failed That perfect little angel is now the devil without a tail I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what else to do Clean the house? Do everything I used to? As far as I'm concerned, that little angel's gone Now all I can do, is try to move on Erin Skoraczewski

The Miracle Waiting to Happen By: Madeline Cahue “It would be a miracle if you were to ever conceive on your own.” These were the words that Mrs. Amy Schaffer heard ten years ago when she found out she could not have children. The now 36 year old mother of 3 found this out at the age of 26 from her gynecologist. “I felt like someone ripped my soul out of my body. I stood up and walked away sobbing all the way home,” says Schaffer. Schaffer found out after a year of trying that her left fallopian tube was 85% closed and her right was 95% closed. After 46 months of two cycles of in vitro she decided to stop. Her husband of 4 years was not very pleased with this. He wanted a child of his own while she was perfectly fine with adoption. This disagreement started “the beginning to the end of my marriage,” quotes Schaffer. Schaffer went to DCFS to adopt. After several stressful court appearances the biological father of Ms. Gabby Schaffer gave up his rights and signed her over to Amy. After receiving Gabby at only 11 months, Schaffer had to foster her for 4 years until she had officially adopted her at the age of 5. Five years later Amy met her husband Jim through some mutual friends they had. “At the time I was man hating,” she said, “but I knew he was the one when I told him I couldn’t have children, and he said that’s okay we have Gabby.” Jim and Amy Schaffer married on August 30th, 2008. Six years later it happened. “I felt like a whole woman who could conquer ANYTHING, when that test came out positive,” said Amy, “there was the miracle that the doctor told me would or would not happen.” Schaffer and her husband did have worries about both pregnancies, but the pregnancies were successful and healthy.

“I always wanted to be a teacher because I was happiest around kids,” said Schaffer. This started off at a young age with babysitting and went to being an aide at the age of 16 and a daycare teacher at 18. Schaffer received her Master’s Degree at St. Xavier University in Chicago and is currently a preschool teacher at St. Joseph School in Summit. Schaffer is now the happy mother of 6 month old Nathan, 2 year old Matthew, and 9 year old Gabby. Schaffer counts her blessings everyday and says, “Gabby has always been my biggest blessing because I feel like we saved each other.” Schaffer was put through a challenge that for many women is hard to overcome, and she came out of this challenge a changed and stronger woman. It has also made her more protective, loving, and accepting as a mother. “It made her the person she is today. I feel sad for her but things worked out in the end. She adopted Gabby. We got married and had children. We wouldn’t be a family if she didn’t have that adversity in her past.” said her husband Jim. Schaffer’s advice to a woman who is going through a similar obstacle is, “God has a plan for us and your prayers will be answered exactly when they are supposed to be.” “I love the life I have now, how I live it, who I am, where I am, and have no regrets only gratefulness,” says Amy Schaffer a hero, with a big heart, in the eyes of many. We are the freshman, the freshman, the freshman Yes I am a freshman, my first high school year When I think about it there is so much to fear The teachers, the lockers, the students, the books, Will I fit in, or will I get dirty looks Will I forget my combination; will I be late to class, Will I remember all my homework, will I fail or pass, Now freshman year is almost done, It really was quiet fun, I will miss freshman year, And the next three years will quickly be here.

Kylie Maloy 70

Young years, also known as fun years, We fulfill our dreams with the least of fears, Friends may be part of the climb, We now know these memories will last a lifetime.

Here on this hill, Comes a great thrill, Our family will give you a chill, Come visit if you will.

Small families are we, All sisterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in pride, Our love is the key, All on one side.

Some may remember these days, For this may be the time of our life, We will all progress our new ways, Never resulting in a bit of strife. Nina LoCascio