Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Imagine being 104 years old!

At St. Ann Center we are privileged to share some of our days with Mary Huth – who celebrated her 104th Birthday with us on Tuesday, April 24, 2012.

Mary’s great-grand son usually brings her to St. Ann Center every other Tuesday, to have a bath in our comfortable whirlpool tub and to get her hair done in our full service hair and nail salon. She has been having her hair done by Carol in our Beauty Salon for at least the last six years. Mary’s family said, “We are lucky to be a part of your center."

Mary pictured with Carol her hair stylist


If you have the pleasure to meet Mary you would be impressed immediately.  This centenarian is full of spark and shares a beautiful smile with everyone she meets.

Of course we had to ask her “what’s the secret to a long life?”    She responded, “Laughter …and a Coke soda each day!”  We teased her about her “Coke” habit - she laughed and shared with us her glorious smile.

In an article from American Statesman Staff, Helen Anders, said Mary is among approximately 104,099 Americans, by U.S. census count, who are 100 or older. People are living longer because technological advancements and drugs cure illnesses that once ended lives. By 2050, the government projects, there will be 601,000 centenarians. A recent study published in the medical journal The Lancet goes even further, suggesting that most babies born after 2000 in developed countries will live to be 100.

We are so very happy to spend such a wonderful day with Mary!  Happy Birthday Mary – Well be waiting to celebrate your 105th with you!

Monday, April 2, 2012

Lonely Heart by Sr. Clara Styger, OSF

One day my heart felt
very lonely
like Jesus when in the
Garden of Olives
Life in a way was almost too much.
My whole being was crying out -
I longed to find peace within.

I cried out to Jesus,
"Where are You?"

Then among tears of frustration
I felt His respectful presence
around me.
No voice but eyes so pure and
filled with love,
I felt strength and became
very peaceful.
I did not feel alone any more.

Easter is a time of deep hope
A gift of our Father's Love through
His Son Jesus, our Jewish brother,
Lover and true friend.
He came to give us Life and
Show us the way.

Will I and will you truly let
Easter Peace happen in our hearts?
Burst forth in joy-filled praise
For we are the most gifted, hope-filled
Children of God.
Alleluia! Happy Easter to you.

-Sister Clara Styger, OSF