Sunday Sabbath September 11 2016  A PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION YEAR

Emails often sit awhile on my computer before I have time to open them.  Tonight I read too many because I did not need to write a blog.  Now my mind is full and jumbled as I actually read through some of the political forwards and had my eyes opened.  I never know what to believe anymore, but somehow, the worse it reads the easier it is for me to believe.  That, my friends, is a sad state of affairs.  So here is my Sunday Sabbath poem (a bit different than usual).

 

A PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION YEAR

By Kathleen Martens

September 11, 2016

 

Our government seems to be growing

More shadowy all the time.

Once upon a time, facts were true or false,

But now it seems there is no line.

 

And so we wonder, who to believe?

Now that seems to be the question!

And what is verbal seems to be

So venomous with infection.

 

Real or fake now unidentifiable.

Whom to trust is now unknown.

Our country seems to shudder,

As deceitfulness blatantly shown.

 

Dishonesty seems to be the vogue,

What is spoken, is hard to believe.

It would make such a difference

If but the truth we received.

 

So as I listen to the news,

And peruse my list of emails,

I can easily identity the fact

That our leadership has failed.

 

Because the laws of the land

Ban prayer in public schools,

And any Biblical principle

No longer taught as tools.

 

We kill our babies before birth,

But Eagle eggs are protected.

And candidates without integrity

Seem to be the ones who are elected.

 

And evil seems so blatant,

Even as we remember nine eleven,

For our leaders have forsaken God

And no longer turn toward heaven.

 

And though the world is in chaos

I have peace and joy in my heart.

BECAUSE I PUT MY TRUST IN GOD

AS WITH HIM EACH DAY I START.

Saturday September 10 2016  OUTDATED AND BEHIND THE TIMES

To my chagrin I forgot to pick up my iPhone before I left for the gym this morning.  Only when I arrived did I realize my phone was four miles away sitting on my kitchen counter.  BUT…I had my headset with me and that was a lifesaver.  Yes, the music was still playing on the radio (all the more reason to need a headset) but there was that ever ignored screen I could turn to in my time of distress.  And so I did.  I actually exercised longer because I wanted to the see the end of a television show.  I do not know the name of it but it was on HGTV and the two hosts are twin brothers, one who sells houses, the other who remodels the house being sold. 

I will make one comment about the commercials that were shown on a Saturday morning, on a somewhat innocuous TV show, that any age could be watching (except for the commercials that is).  I was absolutely horrified to see such a commercial on a Saturday morning, or any other time, as far as that goes.  I can’t tell you what upcoming show or movie it was advertising but it was the most repulsive, demonic, frightening, and hideous commercial I have EVER witnessed.  It was actually nauseating.  To be fair, let me set the precedent that it has been years since I have watched much TV and I NEVER WATCH A COMMERCIAL.  Unfortunately I was caught unaware and was both stupefied and horrified at what I witnessed.  It sickened me.  I guess I am just behind the times.  If this is what can be broadcast during a “family show” I cringe to think what the R rated movies, or horror and crime shows might advertise.  I guess if you can make a dollar in today’s world, that is what counts.

I also had my eyes opened as I watched a 1990’s outdated, “hideous” interior designed home, be transformed to current day acceptability. I thought the 1990’s home was lovely and tastefully decorated.  Oh my, I am so outdated.  My décor goes back to the 1800’s era.  However, some of it is as current as the 1970’s.  After all, that was when we married and designed our “lovely” interior.  We did do a little makeover in the 1980’s when we moved to Wisconsin.  And since then things have stayed pretty stable.  Oh, there have been a few changes such as giving our 1860’s dining room set to our son for their new house, and replacing our living room Lazy Boy recliners.  It works for us.  I’m comfortable; Dave’s comfortable.  We both still love our antiques and if we need to buy something, why not go to an estate sale and get it a lot more reasonably priced?  However, I will insert that we did buy our Lazy Boy recliners new!  But, we replaced our dining room table with an old iron tobacco plant starter table which I had sandblasted so I could repaint it.  It’s really sturdy!

That show convinced me that if we ever want to sell our home we will need to have a lot of updating done.  Too bad!  I like it the way it is, Formica counter tops and all!  Oh, the one thing the TV decorator decided to keep were the cupboards that were like the ones we have in our kitchen; beautiful solid oak custom made cabinets.  He said those would not need to be changed because they could be painted.  My heart plummeted.  I would never want my oak cupboards to be painted.

So, I said all that to say this; I am definitely old.  I do enjoy change, and color, and a mixture of décor (all mixed together in one room), but if something works, why change it!  Let the people who move in next decide what they want to do.  I am past the point in my life that life must be lived to impress those who may stop by once a year for an hour.  I say, if it works for you, go for it.  And so I do.  Oh, by the way…we do still have, and use, our first two love-seats we bought in the 1970’s.  They were white, we raised two kids, and the love seats are still white.  One graces my library; the other was in my studio.  The studio is now taken apart, but that beautiful little love-seat still waits for the next person who needs a place to sit.

 

OUTDATED

By Kathleen Martens

September 10, 2016

 

To be outdated

Is it really bad?

It’s to see those unsatisfied

That makes me so sad.

 

I am so happy

With my old things.

It’s not fashion

That makes me sing.

 

What does it take

To be satisfied,

Always needing something new

By Your side?

 

If it’s still good

Why throw it away

When it can service

For many more days?

 

I am content

And filled with peace.

It is not possessions

That gives me ease.

 

I don’t need

The latest new fad.

Most things of old

Are the best I’ve had.

 

It is God who provides

What I own,

And I’m very content

With what’s in my home.

 

And I know ultimately

Nothing will last,

That someday I too

Will be a part of the past.

 

Then everything can be updated

All at one time,

Because this world

Has never been mine.

 

I have a home

Fashioned in glory.

And that is where

I’ll live a heavenly story!

 

Lord thank You for contentment.

Thank You too Lord for the years You have numbered for me.

Thank You for all the blessings You have given me.

Thank You that someday I will live with You in my heavenly home.

 

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU.

Friday September 9 2016  TIME PASSES WITHOUT WARNING

Time relentlessly passes by and I sometimes am totally unaware.  Yes, in the back of my mind I realize that the day is waning but keep insisting that I can just get one more thing accomplished.  And then I must halt.  Last night I finally halted at 12:05 a.m.  I climbed into bed and only wished I could have stayed up longer to do more.

Awake at 6:30 a.m. this morning and I was raring to go.  Since I have restrictions as to how much I can exercise at the gym I am taking advantage of these no interruption days.  On days when I don’t go to the gym I plan to be partially dressed and ready for a marathon.  Oops!  I just remembered that I forgot to lie down this afternoon.  Oh well, it just means more trips to the bathroom through the night.  Lying on my back with my feet propped up puts my kidneys into high gear.  And that is a good thing!  But, if I forget, then I pay with many trips to the little girl’s room.

So, another day has “skedaddled” (a word my friend used in her message to me today), so I will just write a quick blog.

I have not forgotten about the last two biographies I have yet to write; again, just time constraints.  Today was album day.  Scrap-booking is a slow and tedious project and I made a BIG MISTAKE yesterday!  I peeked ahead at all the photos I have yet to do!  I have two boxes of organized photos in envelopes, standing on end, and the boxes are heavy!  It takes several hours each day to lay out, cut, organize, and reorganize, arrange, and then carefully attach everything to the background.  I’d like to know who made up this idea of “SCRAP-BOOKING”.  Just between you and me, it sure is fun!

I won’t look ahead again.  I will just do what I can each session and allow that to be my motivating factor.  Today I searched my own photo archives and found a few photos that were not included in my mom’s photos.  Years ago I made some copies of some of my mom’s photos and I actually found them.  I took a phone snapshot of the ones I had and I plan to have some digital prints made so I can include them in my sister’s books.  Some of my photos were given to me by my mom when I was just married and some I actually made from a couple of negatives my mom still owned.  I wish I still had those negatives but I had to return them and I did not see them included with my sister’s cache of photos.  I hope the iPhone prints will be decent enough to include in the albums.

It seems one thing leads to another.  Doing the album gave me incentive to dig up the old biographies of my mother’s siblings.  The old biographies gave me incentive to update their stories.  The amounts of paper I am using up so quickly instigated me to search out a great sale, which made it necessary to spend a couple of hours choosing additional supplies and the more pages I do, the more I realize how many photos I remember once seeing that were not included with this batch of photos.  And that is what caused me to search out my own old photos.  And all these new endeavors equal more hours.  Today I used the iphone to take pictures of my photos, and I put them through computer processing so I could have prints made.  And that led to a call with the photo-lab I use and then the discussion of what it will cost to print a digital copy of the album; astronomical to say the least!  That sent me on a computer and phone quest to inquire about other methods of reproducing the album when it is finished.  The only problem I have is trying to estimate how many pages there will be.  That will determine the cost factor.  And there will be a lot of pages!!!  And that is why I peeked ahead.  Big mistake!  It looks unending!  And I haven’t even begun my own saga.  Perhaps I need to plan on living to about 110 years old.  Oh my…maybe on second thought I’ll just work faster.

And in the midst of all I have to do I picked up the ringing phone this morning and spoke  with a new friend for over two hours.  I should have taken that time to lie down.  I could have accomplished two things at once.  Even though we (more me than her) spoke a long while it was a very refreshing reprieve.  I actually awakened this morning thinking of this friend and desiring to go over and visit with her today.  So, even though it was a day I planned to stay at home, I still had my desire fulfilled without even leaving the house.  She is a friend that God brought into my life recently while I was shopping at Aldi’s.  She has the countenance of an angel, and after getting to know her better, I realize it is really the essence of God that causes her to glow.  I believe she is in her eighties.  I so look forward to hearing her stories.  God is so good to me with the wonderful people He brings into my life.  

 

JESUS LONGS TO LIVE INSIDE

By Kathleen Martens

August 9, 2016

 

Every day can be a wonder

When one is prepared to receive.

And when we live in God’s presence

It seems easier to believe.

 

God is such a great Father

To His children who walk among men.

He only desires the best for us

And He offers to be our friend.

 

What a journey we are on

When everyday is full of God’s glory,

And when He dwells within our heart

He is the foundation of our story.

 

There is such joy to be experienced

When living connected with the Divine,

Because regardless what my day may hold,

I know I’m His, and He is mine.

 

But so many who know His name

Do not understand He longs to live inside.

He so desires a personal relationship

So together you eternally abide.

 

The above poem was actually inspired by something my friend told me today.

 

Lord, my prayer tonight is that You would open the eyes of those who do not understand what a personal relationship with You means.  Put a love in their heart to read Your word and give them insight and discernment to understand your scriptures.  Lord, bring others into their lives to help turn their eyes and hearts to what it truly means to have a “personal living relationship” with You; one where You are ever present in their lives and they are ever mindful of Your presence.

 

Thank You Father for Your scriptures.

Thank You Lord for abiding in me.

Thank You God that You are ALWAYS THERE FOR ME!

Thank You too for my new found friend, Marilyn, who loves You so deeply.

Thank You for this lovely day.

 

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU.

 

Thursday September 8 2016  NOT A COMPLAINT…JUST THE WAY I FEEL

The small gym where I workout has never blared music over loud speakers.  Most people exercising have headsets on listening to whatever they choose to hear through iPods or iPhones.  Some plug into personal televisions on their exercise machines.  A few seem to like the quiet (if you can call a gym “quiet”).  Actually our gym has amazing, amplifying acoustics.  It magnifies all sound, be it an exertion grunt, a sneeze, weights clattering to the floor, and as we found out today, piped in radio music as well.  We considered everything hunky-dory at the Princeton Club until Dave and I went to the gym today and found that the owner has issued a new rule that managers must now pipe in radio music (with poor quality speakers) 24/7.  IT WAS AWFUL!  And it wouldn’t have made a difference if I had even liked the station.  The acoustics is not conducive to radio speakers.  I had to turn my iPhone to the loudest volume and still the minister’s words were somewhat obscured.  One of the reasons I so enjoy working out is because I can use my time there to listen to sermons on my iPhone broadcast from www.southlandchristian.org   I discussed the radio noise dilemma with the manager but he informed me his hands were tied and he had to follow the new rule from the head guy.  Well, we don’t have to rejoin when our time expires.  Surely, there is some gym, somewhere, that doesn’t force their paying customers to listen to music they do not enjoy!  Unless the music is discontinued I don’t know if we will be rejoining the PRINCETON CLUB EXPRESS IN FITCHBURG when our membership expires.  There wasn’t one person that I spoke with today at the gym that wanted that music to continue.  There were a lot of disgruntled customers! 

It certainly is a good thing that this didn’t happen in July.  If you remember, mine and Dave’s challenge in July was to not complain about anything.  Well, it worked, we both did a good job and have become more cognizant of when we might be aware that a complaint is surfacing, so we rephrase it as a statement of fact (or opinion) when we catch ourselves. Last month we practiced giving more in ways of kindness and courtesy toward others, as well as giving in other ways.  This month we are taking a break from a new challenge and continue the practice of what we have already disciplined ourselves to do.  I must admit, I really do not like to complain, but sometimes having your voice heard is not so much a complaint as it is educating someone else when they are making such a horrific bumble! (My opinion.)  I’m just going to have to have a talk with Mr. Head Guy!

 

NOT A COMPLAINT…JUST THE WAY I FEEL

By Kathleen Martens

September 8 2016

 

When my peace is shattered

By loud garbled sound,

It’s not very fun

To stick around.

 

I love the quiet

So I can choose

What I desire to hear

And my hours not lose.

 

During my time of exercise,

Listening to my choice

Was like a vacation

From clamoring noise.

 

Sweet quiet music

Or a talking voice

Makes it so much easier

To keep my poise.

 

I already dread

Tomorrow’s return

To the Princeton Club

Where I try to learn.

 

I listen to speeches

Of things I choose to hear,

And if that radio continues

I will shed some tears.

 

The world is so noisy

Why add more garble?

The sound of that radio

It’s really quite horrible!

 

So Please Mr. “Head Guy”

Show some compassion

Or The Princeton Express

May soon be out of fashion!

 

God, perhaps I need to ask forgiveness for my “grumbling heart”.  If I do I thank You for Your forgiveness.

Thank You that You give me grace and mercy.

Thank You for the times of silence so I can enjoy Your presence.

Thank You for loving me.

And thank You that I can hear.

 

Thank You readers if you read down to this line.  I guess I did a bit of venting on my blog.  But it really was pretty awful at the gym today.  I don’t go back again until Saturday.  I wonder if the music will still be playing.  Oh, I hope not.

 

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wednesday September 7 2016  FEWER WORDS

One thing that was not accomplished yesterday was my return to the craft room.   It was not to be.  So that is my goal for today.  This morning I had a two hour learning session with a friend who so graciously gave me his time to help me recall how to set up a blog.  Since I needed to do a “dummy blog” I just went ahead and set up another blog.  It will be launched in the future when I get to it!  I wanted a refresher course because I want to be able to help someone else learn the intricacies of how it is done.  Another lesson will be needed before I have confidence to teach it.

Since I was in the neck of the woods of a book bindery I stopped by to get samples of pricing to have some books bound.  I’m still quite a ways from the final drafts I need, but I wanted to know what to plan for in regards to the cost of book binding.  The binding is actually quite affordable.  The printing cost is where the expense is involved.

Lunch is over and here I am at the computer.  The reason being is that I want to write my blog so I get back to my album pages!  But the only problem is, all I can think about it wanting to work on the photo album.  I always wonder if I will run out of words to write. 

Speaking of words, earlier today I decided that perhaps I should try not to talk so much, especially at home.  I was thinking about how I always have something to talk about and wondered if Dave ever gets tired of hearing me talk so much.  I don’t think I could live with another person who talked as much as I do.  It would probably drive me crazy.  But Dave is always so gracious and kind, doesn’t get “short” with me very often, and is quite a conversationalist himself.  I love listening to Dave talk.  There is never a day that goes by that he doesn’t teach me something new.  He keeps me informed of world affairs, educates me in financial matters, or causes me to laugh.  He is well informed about history, sports, wars, and has unending trivial facts tucked away in his brain.  And he always tells me he loves me.  Perhaps that is how he puts up with my unending chatter.

When we first married it was quite an adjustment for Dave when he found out how outgoing I was with everyone and how much I could talk.  He asked me if I couldn’t tone “it” down a bit.  So I tried.  I looked around me and viewed all the sedate, quite, lady friends in our circle and decided I would try to become like them.  No one talked very much unless they were drawn into conversation.  And so, I decided I would do likewise.  I would wait until someone addressed me and brought up a topic and then politely comment when it was expected.  It lasted for about two weeks.  But I really did try!  Inside it felt like I was going to explode; as if I was being strangled from the inside out.  I even felt myself wriggling in my seat because I had so many “interesting things” to talk about; sort of like a kid who knows the right answer in class and the teacher won’t call on her.  I even had some of the people who knew me well ask if there was anything wrong.  I would smile sweetly (like the other ladies did) and say, “Oh, of course not”.  How could I tell them I was suffering from self induced “tongue tied syndrome”?

Well, perhaps since I am older I should try once again to be more sedate…but, on the other hand, maybe it’s too late to teach an old dog new tricks.  I’m just very fortunate that my husband loves me so much.

 

FEWER WORDS

By Kathleen Martens

September 7, 2016

 

Sometimes it’s best

To simply be

The way that God

Designed me.

 

And also best

That perhaps too

You should rejoice

How He designed you.

 

Thank You God for making me just the way I am.

Thank You for teaching me to love people.

Thank You Lord that You have created every single person uniquely.

Thank You God for Who You Are!

 

Have a wonderful day.  NOW I CAN GO AND WORK ON MY ALBUM.  GUILT FREE!

GOD BLESS YOU!

 

 

 

Monday September 6 2016  REVERSE OF A HOUSECOAT DAY!

Today was the exact opposite of my yesterday.  I accomplished a lot at home yesterday; today absolutely nothing.  But…today was a successful and meaningful day as well.  It was errand day.  I had lists of where to go, what to buy, food packed in my ice bag for lunch, and no time limits!  It started out with the gym and from then on I was on my own.  And to refresh your memory, remember what I have said previously in regards to the fact that I lose track of time.  It is so wonderful on the days when I actually give myself permission to not be aware of the clock.  My stomach lets me know when to eat and other than that I have no constraints.  I’ve learned to pack my lunch when I know I am going to be out because I enjoy the freedom of not being fearful of needing to eat.  I would rather eat my own food than anything I can buy in a restaurant. 

The first Tuesday of each month is Senior Citizen discount day at Walgreen’s drug store.  So I keep a list of the items I need to buy and shop on the first Tuesday of each month.  Of course I do a bit of sleuth work beforehand to find out how much things cost elsewhere to see if Walgreen’s 20% discount will be lower than the prices of other markets.  Today I had a long list but I only bought a couple of things from Walgreen’s because I could get better prices elsewhere WITHOUT a percentage off discount.  Don’t just shop because there is a sale, but rather be astute and know the prices elsewhere before you go.  My iPhone is my companion when I shop.  I take pictures in other stores of the products I need and make certain the price is showing.  It must be recent pricing to make an educated decision.  As you know, prices change from one day to the next.

It rained while I was shopping but I went ahead and headed over to the KIA showroom and sales floor for a free car wash.  When I bought my car I was informed that I would have free car-washes for as long as I owned the vehicle.  Believe me; it has saved me a bundle.  Dave has the same perk with his KIA but he seldom uses it.  He is just not out and about as often as I am.  

If you read the last few blogs you know I am working on a scrapbook album for my sister’s family and it takes a lot of paper to do what I am doing.  I’m limited in some colors so I felt I was being drawn to Jo Ann’s Fabrics to check out the art supplies.  How convenient; since my travels took me right by the store.  I felt a prompting that I was supposed to stop at that destination; and boy, did I hit the jackpot.  Sheets of paper that were normally 79 cents to $1.79 were on sale 10 sheets for $2.00, or 20 cents each.  Great buy!  Another shopper told me if I went online there was a coupon for an additional 20% off.  I’m not a phone coupon user so I went up to the clerk and she pulled up the coupon, and the other shopper was right.  And…right there online was another coupon for all paper products and related paper crafting tools, priced at 50% off of items that were not on sale.  Oh man!  I was able to make my dollars go even further.  Every single item was scanned and by the time I received my receipt, it was over 5 feet long; I kid you not.

I will use some of this design paper in my sister’s albums, and then what is leftover will be used to create our family albums.  I knew I was going to need more paper products and double sided tape before this project is finished.  These stock-up prices were great to come across.  I’ve learned to listen to the promptings of my heart.  When I hear that still small inner voice I believe it is God’s directive.  Now I am chomping at the bit until I can get back into my craft room and resume my project.

After buying the paper I still had two more grocery store stops on my agenda.  All went well and I arrived home with a car full of supplies BEFORE MY HUNGER FOR DINNER KICKED IN.  I had long ago eaten my meager lunch.  I left the house this morning about 9:30 a.m. and didn’t arrive home until after 4:00 p.m.  I ate some watermelon for a snack and then had everything put away, dinner made, and kitchen cleaned up by 7:00 p.m.  And now I am in my housecoat once again.  Ahhh…it feels so good.  A day well accomplished.

 

NO TIME CONSTRAINTS

By Kathleen Martens

September 6, 2016

 

To not be in a hurry

Is what I love best.

When the clock is ticking

The day seems such a quest.

 

So I choose to clear my head.

To not even think of time,

And just do what must be done,

And the day goes oh, so fine.

 

With nothing on my calendar

While out and on my runs,

It seems the hours are gentler

And it is always much more fun.

 

So when I shop I plan accordingly

To allow this day of pleasure.

Having absolutely, no time constraints,

To me is such a treasure.

 

Thank You God for directing me to such an awesome sale of the items I needed.

Thank You for a day unencumbered by time constraints.

Thank You Lord that this blog was quick to write.

 

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU!

P.S.  Since I am a bit of hurry to get to bed this blog has not been proofed!

 

 

 

Monday September 5 2016  TAKING A DAY OF VACATION AWAY FROM RETIREMENT…

Or otherwise known as…THE HOUSECOAT DAY!

Occasionally I actually schedule A HOUSECOAT DAY.  I look ahead on my calendar and I cross a day off, writing “housecoat day” across the blank lines and then do not schedule ANYTHING on that day!  I did this when my work schedule became overburdened and I knew I needed a down day.  When anyone called and asked for any kind of appointment on that particular day, which I considered sacrosanct, I would simply look at my calendar and say, “Oh that day is totally full and it is not possible for me to go”.  It was spoken guilt free because I truly was “busy” doing something else.  I was wearing my housecoat all day without getting dressed and nothing was going to prompt me to go out.

My housecoat days sound more leisurely than they really are.  What I used to do on “housecoat day” was to sit in front of the computer, hours on end, working on wedding photos or high school senior portraits.  I would accomplish more on that one day than I could the rest of the week between appointments.  Post production work in digital photography is a tall mountain to climb.  Post production work was my nemesis.  But, oh how I enjoyed those housecoat days because I was totally uninterrupted.

Only once did my housecoat day backfire on me.  I was ensconced in the computer, enjoying the bra-free day, when the doorbell rang.  My heart started racing because I knew I had nothing on my calendar.  Or did I and I had just overlooked it somehow?  I panicked.  And panic was due.  I went to the door and there stood a man and woman who had an appointment with me for a final consultation for their wedding which was a couple of weeks away.  I was so embarrassed!  I apologized for my undressed state, checked my calendar and to my chagrin saw their name written very lightly in pencil underneath my crossed out lines for my housecoat day.  I asked them to please give me a moment and I would get dressed.  When I returned I then ushered them to my office.  We had the two hour appointment; went over all their wedding details, and they left in a much better frame of mind than what I was feeling.  I must have been convincing in my sincerity that I would not be late for their wedding, and would be appropriately dressed (said with humor), and they acted like it was no big deal.  We laughed about it later.  But I learned my lesson. 

You might think my lesson was that I should never again have a housecoat day.  But no, that wasn’t it.  My lesson was that I would never again use a pencil again to write in an appointment.  My goal when working with wedding clients was to develop a relationship with them during the 18 months to two years I worked with them.  Some of my contracts were made one to two years in advance.  There are several contacts with each couple over those months; updates about plans, engagement photos, dress consultations, photo presentations, picking up orders, pre-wedding consult, the actual wedding, post wedding presentation of photos on the computer, design of the album, and pre-presentation of album before order is sent in.  By the time this couple came they had already surmised my character and professionalism so I did have a plus going for me when they caught me unaware.  It might be funny now to tell about it, but at the time I was not laughing.

So, I said all of the above to tell you two things.  First, this is a housecoat day for me.  It is Labor Day and Dave and I have surmised that we too are getting a day off “from our retirement”.  We need a break!  We slept late, ate late, and started everything else later than usual.  He usually goes to a men’s breakfast each Monday and leaves the house a bit after 6:00 a.m.  So, today was truly a refreshing day for him because the breakfast had not been scheduled.  Even though the morning was relaxed, I somehow see my day progressing as busily and tightly maneuvered as usual.  But, it was great to sleep in until after 7:00 a.m., to not be in a hurry, and to breakfast leisurely.  We had open faced pumpernickel chicken, avocado, and tomato sandwiches with a cup of soup, watermelon and cantaloupe, and cherry tomatoes.  It was delicious!  Our next meal will probably be about 4:00 or 5:00 p.m. with a little snack before bedtime for Dave’s blood sugar levels.  So, my housecoat day will be my reward for all the work I plan to get done. 

The second thing I wanted to tell you is that I am truly my mother’s daughter.  Now how is that for a segue from the above paragraph about my housecoat day?  Well, last week our friends who live through the woods asked us to come down and join them for the movie “GOD IS NOT DEAD” #2.  I told them we could come if I could wear my housecoat.  They have seen me in my housecoat many times and I have absolutely no shame about being seen in my housecoat.  I go outside and work in the yard in my housecoat.  I often wear my housecoat over my clothes because I am cold.  I get into my robe as early as I can at the end of the day, and love to stay in it until the last moment.  I think I would wear it over my church clothes on Sunday mornings if it would be acceptable.  I have gained status to the age barometer that tells me I am always cold.  But, instead of my housecoat I just take a small blanket and throw it across my lap.  Or sometimes I just use my jacket or coat if the weather deems I wear one. 

My friends said my housecoat would be perfectly acceptable to wear.  So Dave and I traipsed across the neighbor’s meadow to get to the path in the woods and we were greeted at the back door by John and Carolyn.  The movie was great, but what made it so enjoyable was having my housecoat wrapped around me, covering me from my neck to just above my feet.  I was warm and I was cozy.  And I think it gave me more enjoyment as I watched the movie; which brings me to the point that I am truly my mother’s daughter. (In case you are wondering, I was dressed underneath.)

While working on the photo albums of our family I have come across some interesting photos.  One that caught my eye was of my mother sitting with a group of ladies at church, at what appeared to be a quilting session.  Mama was an avid quilter by necessity for most of her life.  The quilting frames she used consisted of four, 2X4 inch boards about 10 or 12 feet long.  The boards were wrapped in layers and layers of cotton cloth strips which created a thick padding.  The frames were hung from the ceiling and clamped together at each corner.  The backing of the quilt was tacked to the padded wood and stretched as tightly as possible.  The quilt batting was laid down and basted on the quilt backing and then the quilt topping was tacked on top of the batting, stretched tightly around the hanging board frame.  The ladies would sit around the outside edges of the quilt on all four sides in order to quilt the outer edges.  As work was accomplished the finished part would be rolled tightly around the padded frame.  They would then scoot their chairs closer and begin the next row.  Slowly the quilt would become smaller and smaller and the ladies became closer together.  If the quilt was not finished when it was time to go home, the quilt would conveniently be drawn up to the ceiling in order for it to be out of the way.  I actually remember many homes that had quilts hanging close to the ceilings.

In the picture I mentioned, I can see one edge of a quilt frame and my mom sitting close by.  There are other quilting frames in the room as well.  The photo is dark and it appears that these frames are anchored to the floor with heavy metal bases keeping the frames taut.  It appears my mom is in the basement of her church with other people who are also quilting.  She attended these quilting meeting faithfully each week during her later years.  But, it appears that she is the only one who is wrapped up in her HOUSECOAT!  YOU GO MAMA!  Now I know for certain whose daughter I am!  I honestly did not know that she wore her housecoat at a public gathering such as her quilting group.  It made me smile!  And she liked the same kind of housecoats I do; the kind that are velvety or perhaps soft velour with a zipper up the front and about two sizes too big.  And I bet because she wasn’t so cold, she enjoyed her quilting time all the more.

It was comfy to wear my warm snugly housecoat at John and Carolyn’s, but the day I was caught unaware; THAT WASN’T FUNNY AT ALL!

 

LIKE A VISIT TO THE HEART

By Kathleen Martens

September 5 2016

 

Memories on little pieces of paper

Bring smiles to my face.

So interesting to view a loved one

As well as the place.

 

Parts of life briefly captured,

Forevermore at rest and concise,

A moment standing still in time,

Pinpointing a moment precise.

 

Most memories bring joy,

But some come with tears,

Knowing loved ones have passed away,

And have been gone for many years.

 

But that simple photo

Is like a visit to the heart.

And the pain is dulled a bit,

Even though we are apart.

 

And so I choose to smile

But there are moments when I cry.

And yet it is so fun to visit

My loved ones who have died.

 

Because I know someday

I will again see their smile,

For we are only separated

For just a little while.

 

Because we share the same Father

Who lives in heaven above

I know some day I’ll see my Mama

Because of God’s amazing love.

 

Thank You Father for all the beautiful memories I have of those I love.

Thank You Lord for Your unending tender care.

Thank You Lord that Your spirit tenderly calls me day after day.

Thank You for photos.

 

HOPE YOU HAVE A GREAT AFTERNOON.  GOD BLESS YOU.

 

 

Sunday Sabbath September 4 2016  SUNDAY SABBATH POEM

 

OH TO BE MORE LIKE CHRIST

By Kathleen Martens

September 4, 2016

 

Let heaven fill your thoughts

As you gaze into the sky.

All because you are alive

Since Jesus chose to die.

 

Set your sights on rich treasures,

Slow down and do not hurry.

Do what you do, all for Christ

And don’t take time to worry.

 

Know that through Christ

Your eternal spirit lives.

Desire not what the world has,

Rather focus on what God gives.

 

For when Jesus does return

You will share in all his glories.

Leave sinful and earthly things

So you can share His erternal story.

 

Turn away from evil desires,

And choose life instead of death.

Sexual sin, impurity, and lust

Take away life’s eternal breath.

 

Do not worship what the world offers,

For idolatry it will become.

And your real life is in heaven above,

Abiding with God, and Jesus Christ His son.

 

Get rid of anger, cursing and hatred,

And no foul words speak.

Get rid of every single lie

AND GOD’S WORD DESPERATELY SEEK!

 

Live not like your “old” self

Because you have been made anew,

When you accept Christ as Lord

You see from a different view.

 

You will desire to be

More like Christ in every way.

Do everything as unto Him

On every single day.

 

Because Jesus created new life

He lives within those who believe.

When you strive to be more like Christ

He will teach as you receive.

 

Whether a person follows Christ

Is the only thing that matters.

He will keep you during your storms

So your heart is not in tatters.

 

Practice being tenderhearted and kind.

Show mercy and love to others.

Suffer quietly and patiently,

Extending love to all brothers.

 

Be gentle in spirit

And always ready to forgive.

Remember that God forgave you

So with Him, you will live.

 

And choose to have

A grateful heart

By giving thanks for everything

BEFORE each day starts.

 

Let God’s word enrich your life

And cherish the Sabbath of Sunday rest.

And never shirk the work you do,

But deem to always do your best.

 

Allow love to guide your life.

Allow God’s peace to be ever present.

Abide in Him and He abides in you.

You are the reflection of His essence.

 

The above Sabbath poem written tonight is inspired by a sermon I heard today on Colossians Chapter 3.  I have used some scriptural terminology and phrases.  In no way do I wish to misconstrue that my poem is “scripture” itself; rather that the poem was definitely influenced by what was written in the Bible’s text as well as the sermon I heard today at church spoken by Pastor Greg Pechacek.  By the way, it was a great sermon!  To hear the sermon go to:  www.citychurchonline.org 

I have included Colossians Chapter 3 below:

 

“Colossians 3: 1-17 New King James Version (NKJV)

Not Carnality but Christ

3 If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. ² Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. ³ For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.⁴ When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.

⁵ Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. ⁶ Because of these things the wrath of God is coming upon the sons of disobedience, ⁷ in which you yourselves once walked when you lived in them.

⁸ But now you yourselves are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth. ⁹ Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds, ¹⁰ and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him,¹¹ where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave nor free, but Christ is all and in all.

Character of the New Man

¹² Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; ¹³ bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. ¹⁴ But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. ¹⁵ And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. ¹⁶ Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. ¹⁷ And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”

Saturday September 3 2016  MEMORIES IN THE MAKING

What an interesting journey I am on.  It all began when I volunteered to create photo albums for my sister Faith from the all the pictures my mother had collected throughout the years.  After I took all the photos out of the albums that were causing the photos to deteriorate, organized them into family groups, and purchased all the supplies needed to archaically protect them, I set them aside due to life circumstances.  It is only when I realized the time it would take to do the photo albums would not just mysteriously appear as a gift, that I decided I would need to set blocks of time aside purposely to complete my promise.  Once I began the design phase my whole being became invested in the outcome of creating a beautiful presentation of these old photos.  And then I decided I needed to update the biographies of my mom and her siblings, and then…so on…and so forth, I became more involved emotionally with the project.

It took a long time for me to actually be able to agree with what other people have told me for a long time, that I am an artist.  I never thought of myself in those terms.  Perhaps they are referring to the clutter I work in.  Aren’t all artists a bit scatterbrained?  I have come to terms with the fact that I am an artist, I love design work, I love color, I love to create, and I get emotionally involved with whatever I am creating.  I love to create beauty for others to enjoy; beautiful photographs, beautiful words, beautiful albums, and all just for the joy of creating it.  The scripture says we are created in the image of God.  Was not God the ultimate creator of all beauty?  Then why should it surprise us that we too are meant to create.

Once I began to design the pages in earnest I became ensconced in what I was doing.  It has been a long time since I have been able to work with paper and cutters, pen and ink, and blank white pages.  My design work the past 10-12 years has been digital.  I enjoyed that aspect of designing but not nearly so much as I love working with my hands.  My hands are slower, a bit clumsier, and I probably work a bit longer to do what I used to do so quickly, but my heart is still in it.  For me to do this job is actually a gift given to me.  It may take awhile to complete it, but I know I can still do it. 

As my hours shift over to working on the design layouts I must cut hours from other things I also love to do.  One is writing my blog.  I will continue to write my blog as writing is food to my soul.  However, I do plan to curb the hours I dedicate to it daily.  Starting in October I plan to write three blogs a week.  That will free the other days up for me create the albums.  I am still far behind in having my house and studio de-cluttered and that must also take priority.  I will continue indefinitely with fewer blogs so I can work on all the personal writing relating to books I am trying to finish.  I have a lot on my plate and my years are slipping by so quickly.  There are some things I want to complete before I leave this earth; the main one is to maintain as close a relationship with God as possible.  When I am so busy I am unable to spend the time I need with the Lord in order to fulfill my calling in life.  My calling is to help as many people as I can along the way.  And that takes time to do.

Retirement to me is not just a lot of fun and games and lazy days.  Oh, I have a few of those too.  But I have found that retirement for me is to fulfill all I can do to give myself to others so that they will be able to make a connection to the one who loves them most.  And that connection is with the God of the Bible.

Thank you faithful readers; I hope you continue to read when I am publishing less frequently.  I enjoy your comments, negative or positive, and only hope that my words touch places in your life that will cause you to seek God more.  There is actually a sadness in my heart as I type these words, knowing that the greatest discipline for me will be TO NOT WRITE EACH DAY.  Just between you and me, I will still be writing some, but it will be long hand in my journal and written to the Lord as well as the thoughts the Holy Spirit imprints upon my heart.  Maybe someday you will get to read those parts in the book I hope to publish someday.  A dream is just the thought of doing something; it becomes a goal when you have a timeline.  I am setting that timeline in motion and must persevere.

I will continue to keep you updated on the saga of the albums.  Today I will let you have a glimpse into the messy “artist’s” room where I create.  It may look cluttered but I know where everything is.  And…it is all accessible because of my swivel stool.  Everything I need is within reach.  It is a great convenience for me.  I must get up occasionally to get fresh paper but even that is usually within reach.

Oh, by the way, perhaps I will discipline myself enough so that I can post my daily poem on the blog.  That will keep me current in logging the poety I write daily into my computer.

 

IN SMALL LITTLE DOSES

By Kathleen Martens

September 3, 2016

 

Life is so busy

So many choices to make.

If I could just go without sleep,

I’d have more hours awake.

 

But that is not to be,

For I need my rest.

So with the hours I have

I must do my best.

 

And though I do all I can

Life is such an unknown,

I cannot take for granted

That tomorrow I own.

 

So I use this day

By making good choices,

And quiet world’s clamor

And all of its noises.

 

Every hour is important

Because what I do today,

When tomorrow arrives

The work is not in the way.

 

And so I find

As each day closes

I accomplish great feats

In small little doses.

 

So I keep on, keeping on

With hope in my heart

That never a day comes

That I have no work to start.

 

Because to be busy

Doing the Lord’s work

There are never lost hours

In which to shirk.

 

Because everything done

Is as unto the Lord

And my hours are His

So no time I hoard.

 

I relinquish to God

Every hour I live,

And accept as a gift

Every day He gives.

 

Thank You God for helping me make difficult decisions.

Thank You for this day of life.

Thank You that I have the opportunity to see my grandchildren this afternoon.

Thank You for Your love Lord.

 

HAVE A GREAT DAY AND GOD BLESS YOU!

 

 

 

 

 

Friday September 2 2016  AUTUMN’S REMINDER

The first hint of fall was felt this morning as I headed out the door at 6:15 a.m.  I had an early appointment to have an MRI scan on my knee that was injured when I fell.  Hopefully the results will say that my knee is intact and just needs more time to heal.  I do not want to have any more surgery in my life…EVER!

 

MY SUMMER FRIEND

By Kathleen Martens

September 2, 2016

 

Crisp and cool air

Exploring here and there,

Beneath my dress

I must confess.

 

Morning light

So beautiful and bright

With sparkling brilliance

Showing life’s resilience.

 

A moment in time

To claim as mine.

Serene and calm

A refreshing balm.

 

Though the end is near

Summer is still here,

And while autumn calls

I’m not ready for fall.

 

So I will enjoy

The hours I employ,

Taking pleasure in

My summer friend.

 

I hadn’t meant to write a poem so soon but it just came as I thought back over the beauty of this cool morning.

I still have some contacts to make before my family series can be completed and I haven’t had the time to spend on the phone.  It will happen so please don’t give up.  I’ll send out a notice to my family members when they are posted.  

It was brought to my attention that someone took me seriously when I stated in a previous blog, ” Who knows, maybe I’ll start doing a little research into my cousins next.  Might as well get it all on paper for the future generations to read.”  Truly I was kidding!  If you knew how many cousins I have it would take me forever to probe and pry to get the information needed.  It is never my intent to use this blog to gossip or hurt anyone intentionally or unintentionally.  Sorry cousins,  if you thought I was serious you won’t be getting the scoop from me.  However, I will admit there are some pretty interesting stories out there walking around!  I don’t follow face book but from what I’ve heard about that particular media you can always find out something new about most anyone.  I’ve come to the conclusion that I barely have time to live my own life,  I can’t keep up with hundreds of other lives.

Someone once asked me why I write my blog.  To be truthful it is simply a daily journal of thoughts and reflections of my past as well as capturing the experiences of my life as I grow old.  I hope it will be a keepsake for future generations.  

I began writing my blog when I left on my extended trip last year.  I thought I would stop publishing it when I returned home.  I had enough feedback to know that those who read it wanted me to continue.  So, I changed the direction of my travel blog to a daily journal.  I enjoy writing and choose to write whatever comes to me when I sit down in front of the computer.  I have approached the series about my family a bit differently and I find it is a lot more time consuming to be an investigative reporter.  I look forward to finishing the series so I can once again share my thoughts with others.  Even if no one reads my blog I would still write it for myself.  I especially enjoy sharing my poetry with others.  

I discovered that I can write poetry while typing and that was a new experience for me.  However, typing poetry and writing it long hand has definitely developed two different styles for me.  If you take time to read some of the older poetry I am beginning to post you may notice that it appears to have taken more thought to compose.  When I wrote long hand it was written during my quiet time with the Lord.  I still do long hand writing of poetry in my journal but do not usually include those poems in the blog because of the additional time it takes to type them out.  It is quicker for me to write another poem on the computer than to type one from text.  Since I have many poems already in the computer I am choosing to share those with my readers.  Eventually I hope to get the all of my poetry transcribed and edited so they are backed up with an online backup system.  It seems like an unending job and takes a lot of time because I edit as I type (AND…IT’S HARD TO READ MY OWN PENMANSHIP).

 

Thank You God for the beautiful summer we have had this year.

Thank You for all the rain we have had that made the crops so productive.

Thank You Lord for the fresh breath of cool air this morning.

Thank You too for my poetry that I wrote in the past that I can now share with my readers.

 

I recommend that you read the following poem out-loud; stopping at periods, pausing at commas.  The meaning will reveal itself to you.

 

THE INTIMATE ADVENTURE

By Kathleen Martens

September 2, 2010

 

We all have a secret life, known only to ourselves.

We have the part we display, and the private “we” on shelves.

 

What do we choose to let others know?

What part of our life to the world do we show?

 

It is only God that knows who we are,

And nothing is hidden, neither glory nor mar.

 

Our relationship with God counts above all others.

He is the breath of life when the world seems to smother.

 

It is our choice, this adventure to embark.

For our life not promised to be a walk in the park.

 

“Adventure” is exciting, an unknown endeavor,

And this Adventure we’re on, can last forever.

 

An Adventure is stirring, often an experience of love,

And our greatest adventure offered by God above.

 

His way not always easy, but he asks for commitment,

And He is offering in return, a friendship so intimate.

 

The most private and personal relationship you’ll ever find,

He desires to be close, and gives love that will bind.

 

He becomes our private life, familiar, thorough, and deep.

He becomes our intimate friend, one forever to keep.

 

Our life is exciting as we spend time together.

He offers peace and joy, His touch like a feather.

 

We are His bride preparing to unite

In Holy Consummation, when our time is right.

 

Until then we take joy in knowing

 His countenance shines in us, and to others is showing.

 

No one else knows of moments we share,

Or the miracles we experience because He cares.

 

No one else sees all that we see

Through His bountiful gifts that are constant and free.

 

We are intimate friends and He cherishes our time.

My closest companion, and He is mine.

 

HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY AND GOD BLESS YOU!

 

 

 

Thursday September 1 2016  OOPS!  RETRACTIONS NEEDED

Dear blog readers:

I misinterpreted some of the facts I wrote in my family biographies due to misunderstanding some of the information I received from others.  In the next few days I will be making some changes to a couple of the blogs.  When I have corrected the mistakes I will post who, when, and where you may find the corrections.  I apologize for any information that is not accurate.  I appreciate any and all comments from those who may question anything I have written and I will definitely follow up to correct any errors.

I still do not have some of the facts I would like to receive in order to finish the last two biographies.  Believe me I will be tuned in to making certain I have the correct facts!

I’m writing a short blog tonight due to my schedule.  I was listening to a sermon earlier today at the website: www.southlandchristian.org  which used the 23^rd Psalm as the text.  It is found in the series titled “PSALMS” and was recorded on July 17, 2016.  Well worth the time it takes to listen.  I wish I could just quote the sermon verbatim on this site but I must settle with just sharing the scripture instead. 

Another good source to go to for a more in-depth study is http://www.ccmodesto.com   Click on “Media”, then “Teaching”, and then click on, “Thru the Bible”.  Scroll down through the dates until you get to Psalms 23-25.  Click on it and it will open.  This study is more in-depth and very interesting.  I listen to different studies daily when I am at the gym working out.  I told Dave that I think that is why I like to work out so much; the speakers make the time fly by.

The 23^rd Psalm has always been a favorite passage of mine.  I memorized it as a child and it still lives in my memory.  When each verse is studied in depth, and when one knows what some of the words mean in relationship to the time in which the scripture was written, it gives an even deeper understanding as to what David was writing about.  The passage then becomes alive with new meaning.  I have had the opportunity to listen to this chapter being taught by many great Biblical scholars and it seems I always learn something new each time I hear it.

Perchance you are not familiar with the Bible or the Bible translations I have included.  I do hope you read both translations through to the end.  Listen to each word, each sentence, and perhaps even check out the above websites to learn about what the text means.  Some of the words used in the text take on an entirely different contextual meaning when you understand the nuances of sheep and the importance of a shepherd in their lives.  Words like “righteousness” may be a foreign word to you, as well as is perhaps the phrase, “the shadow of death”.  How do a rod and staff “comfort you”?  What is the significance of a rod and staff in relationship to sheep?

And where, and who, prepares “a table before you” and “who are your enemies”?  Why would you want oil poured all over your head, especially if you were a sheep?  And where is “the house of the Lord”?  And how long is “forever”? 

David wrote this Psalm during a dark, dreadful, and sorrowful time of his life.  When you understand the depth of what these few scriptures mean it may whet your appetite to delve deeper into the amazing truth, knowledge, and wisdom of this amazing book known as The Holy Bible.  I cannot, nor should I go into depth to explain these 6 verses because I am so not prepared to extract all the truths that are written in this short chapter.  I do recommend that you search this passage out for yourselves.  Before you read Psalm 23 ask God to open your eyes to the truths He desires you to know and understand.

Following are two translations of Psalm 23:

 

Psalm 23 New King James Version  (NKJV)

A Psalm of David:

23 The Lord is my shepherd;

I shall not want.

² He makes me to lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside the still waters.
³ He restores my soul;
He leads me in the paths of righteousness
For His name’s sake.

⁴ Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil;
For You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

⁵ You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
My cup runs over.
⁶ Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
All the days of my life;
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever.

 

Psalm 23 The Message Translation (MSG)

23 ^1-3 God, my shepherd!
    I don’t need a thing.
You have bedded me down in lush meadows;
    you find me quiet pools to drink from.
True to your word,
    you let me catch my breath
    and send me in the right direction.

⁴ Even when the way goes through
    Death Valley,
I’m not afraid
    when you walk at my side.
Your trusty shepherd’s crook
    makes me feel secure.

⁵ You serve me a six-course dinner
    right in front of my enemies.
You revive my drooping head;
    my cup brims with blessing.

⁶ Your beauty and love chase after me
    every day of my life.
I’m back home in the house of God
    for the rest of my life.

 

 INSPIRED BY PSALM 23

By Kathleen Martens

September 1, 2016         

 

I know the God

Who is my King

And He supplies

My everything.

 

He insists

I have need of rest

And His provision

Is the best.

 

He gives me water

From the purest hole

That I am refreshed

And restores my soul.

 

I am His

And He leads me right

For His namesake

Both day and night.

 

When I’m in the valley

Close to death

I need fear not

For He is my life and breath.

 

He has all I need

To come to my aid

And His strength

Never fades.

 

He prepares for me

A bountiful table

And my enemies

See that I’m able.

 

He pours his protection

Over my head

And gives me abundance

With nothing to dread.

 

His mercy and goodness

Are mine to own

And when my days are over

I’ll dwell by His throne.

 

And He has promised

That it will be forever, 

I will be with Him

Eternally together!

 

Thank You God for Your promise of eternal life in Your presence.

Thank You for Your scriptures.

Thank You for wonderful teachers.

Thank You God for knowledge and understanding.

Thank You Father for all the promises You have spoken in Your Word.

 

GOODNIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU!