Tuesday, April 30, 2013

My recent adventures at the EWTN network to film Catholic Mom's Cafe!

For some time now I have been creating and preparing a five part television series for EWTN called "Catholic Mom's Cafe."Viewers have loved my show "Everyday Blessings for Catholic Moms" and have asked me if I could possibly do a longer show. The wonderful folks at EWTN approved of my idea to create a series, "Catholic Mom's Cafe." I'm sure you know (because there's news about it all over this blog) that I have a book with a similar title: Catholic Mom's Cafe: 5-Minute Retreats for Every Day of the Year which is being released at this time.

     So, just recently it was time to fly down to the EWTN network in Irondale, Alabama to film the series along with my five guests. When I arrived to "my" house which is provided by EWTN to stay while filming, I immediately noticed the set for the show which was all ready to go. I took a moment to admire the little special touches.



After setting my bags down and thanking Jerry, EWTN's driver, I went directly next door to another EWTN house to meet up with the first four of my guests who had already arrived. Lots of hugs and excitement ensued and then we all headed through the back yard and up to the EWTN chapel to pray in thanksgiving for this opportunity to serve Catholic moms through the series and in anticipation of the filming we would be doing the following day.



We then headed over to my house so I could show my lovely guests the sweet set I had recently discovered.


"This is it ladies! Isn't it pretty?" We chatted a short while and since it was starting to get late we bid our "good byes" and then took care of ironing our clothes for the filming the following day. I decided I should get to bed because we'd be starting early the next morning.


I love the Our Lady of Guadalupe image on my set. It was one of the "props" I had requested. My first guest would be Lisa Mladinich. Lisa and I chatted about "The Skinny of Catholic Fashion."

Lisa Maladinich getting ready




Chatting about fashion and modesty




"The Skinny of Catholic Fashion"




If you look closely, you'll see a photo of my family on the left on the counter.

A few minor adjustments




Okay, the dishes are all done!





My next guest, Marge Fenelon
Discussing "Kids and the Culture."







After Mass, we enjoyed lunch at St. Clare's dining room before filming later in the day.
Lisa Maladinich, me, Woodeene Koenig-Bricker, Marge Fenelon, and Lisa Hendey






Me, Woodeene, Marge, and Lisa Hendey. Lisa M. had to fly back to NY.






My third guest, Lisa Hendey
We discuss "Upholding Dignity through Contradictions"








Woodeene Koenig-Bricker and I discuss "Going it Alone" about single motherhood.






After that show, a photographer came to take some photos of me to use for promotion.

My producer, Jill Sanders, and director Fred, and cameraman Mike
at the end of a long day.







That afternoon Karen Edmisten arrived. The following morning she gets a little powder before our show.







Karen Edmisten and I discuss "Dealing with Loss through Miscarriage."






I also did some promo bits to announce the future series after filming was complete for the day. That afternoon I was honored to be Jim and Joy Pinto's guest on their Live show, "At Home with Jim and Joy." You can hear our segment here: http://www.ewtn.com/vondemand/audio/seriessearchprog.asp?seriesID=6696&T1=at+home Just scroll down until you see my name and hit the "download" button.



Blessed to be Fr. Mitch's guest on the EWTN Live show that evening.





You can see it here on Youtube: http//www.youtube.com/watch?v=b25_OZnazv8&playnext=1&list=PLA02A15AE776B6200%3AMy




The following morning I was honored to once again be Doug Keck's guest on EWTN's Bookmark show.
 We discuss two of my books. It will air on June 9, 2013 (air times on my website: www.donnacooperoboyle.com )




What a whirlwind of a trip! I am hoping and praying that God will continue to bless this endeavor "Catholic Mom's Cafe" to bring inspiration, guidance, and the Catholic tools to Catholic moms to aid them in navigating the myriad of circumstances in their lives. When I learn of air dates for the series I will indeed let you know. Stay tuned!

May God bless mothers everywhere and may we all reach up in prayer to Mother Mary who will certainly bring us closer to her Son Jesus.

7 comments:

  1. Wow, what fun! I love a kitchen that doesn't have any dirty dishes, too. :)

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  2. Donna-Marie, you look absolutely terrific! Here's praying that your show is a success, and that it touches the hearts of many mothers.

    God bless you!

    Lorraine

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  3. Thank you, Roxane! Yes, it as a lot of fun!

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  4. You are so kind, Lorraine. Thanks for your prayers for all of the moms who watch the series. I'm praying along with you!

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  5. Donna-Marie, we are so very proud of you for your great work for Catholic Moms (and Dads)! May the Holy Spirit continue to inspire and guide you in your awesome work! Blessed are us Catholic parents who have you to journey along our parenthood!

    Love,
    Craig and Wenqi Glantz

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  6. Craig and Wenqi, you are both so kind! Let's pray together that hearts and souls will be touched in a deep way through watching the series and reading the book.

    God bless and love,
    Donna-Marie

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  7. Fun, Donna! Great pictures (except, eek, I look so tired in the last one!) Ah, well, you had enough energy for both of us, and it was a wonderful, if FAST trip! :) Can't wait to see all the other episodes.

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