Monday January 30 2017  EACH DECISION WE MAKE

 

Each day runs into the next.  Some days are so long that it seems as if I’ve lived two days.  Fortunately for me they are good days that last so long.  This trip has delivered several such days.  The drives have been longer than I usually plan but I had many miles to travel in just a few days.  Instead of feeling weary or defeated because of the long road ahead I looked at it as an adventure.  I broke the driving tedium by making a game out of getting below the next 100 mile marker on my trip tick.  I celebrated with happy thoughts for each 100 mile marker I covered. 

I also discovered a new way of driving.  Fortunately my car is small, with plenty of room in the seating area, and the seat pumps up high enough for me to see over the steering wheel.  The car sits high so I don’t feel as if I am dragging my wagon on the pavement.  I don’t enjoy riding in or driving low designed cars.  And another thing, I get in and out quite often for potty stops and it is easier on the back and legs for an older person to bypass the hoisting of the body.  But the one thing that has made a difference for me on this trip is realizing that driving braless (skip to the next paragraph if this is too much information) is the panacea for comfortable driving.  No straps or elastic stretching around the midsection and back causing pressure to the upper body.  It is freedom personified!  I just wear blousy clothes and a couple of layers and even my friends would not know I was braless.  How do I know that?  I do it quite often around my friends.  Either they don’t notice (close lady friends) or they are too polite to say anything.  When you don’t have much to begin with you can get away with it more readily!  Oh the lasting joy of breast reductions!  I’m a walking testimony to that.

I have not had one backache while driving the long hours.  Being unconfined is a most amazing comfort to experience.  I know that this is probably considered a taboo topic to discuss, but I’m done with being conventional.  I will say it like it is and believe others may benefit from my candid assessment of why I have no pain or discomfort throughout a long day of driving.  Ladies, try it, you might like it.

Well, since I have been driving for days, and yesterday being Sunday, I was with Lana all day, I didn’t wear a bra yesterday either.  Today I decided to become civilized again.  I need to exercise and it is more comfortable to be “confined”.  But, oh boy, do I feel the bondage again.  Ladies, it must have been men who designed ladies under garments.  Surely no woman would have thought of such self-torture.

Lana is doing well considering what her body has gone through this past year.  She has battled this cancer for several years so it has been a long journey.  She looks exceptionally healthy in the face, minus eyelashes and hair, but her beauty still shines through.  She tires easily and must lie down immediately when the tiredness comes over her.  She is on pain regulated medicine, has at least two tube strippings a day in order to empty her drains, and must be careful with bandage changes.  Lots to do in order to get well following the surgery she has experienced. 

I am chief cook and bottle washer at present.  I enjoy ministering my tasks.  Lana is not a complainer, nor demanding, and we have enjoyed the presence of each other (at least I’ve enjoyed hers), as well as praying together.  We are kindred spirits in the sense that we are both full of prayers and praise to God.  Tim led us in a time of prayer and Holy Communion yesterday on the Sabbath.  Just being able to set aside time in remembrance of what Jesus did for us on the cross gave us pause to celebrate our day of rest.

 

EACH DECISION WE MAKE

Kathleen Martens

January 30, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

Oh God, for the beauty of life

As each morning rises alone,

Each to experience life in full

When sin has been atoned.

 

Oh for the hours we have in each day

To spend and conquer at will.

And the outcome because of choice

Anxiety or peacefully filled.

 

Each decision we make this hour

Will have consequences ahead,

Unintended or intended,

They can bring life or death.

 

Over and over You offer choice

Of what path our lives will lead.

Draw me close that I will hear

Your words that I might heed.

 

 

Thank You Father that you have given man choice.

Thank You for Your Holy Word that we may know the way to salvation.

Thank You for every sunrise and every sunset.

Thank You for Your ever-present love.

P.S.  Thank You for the insight of driving braless!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Sabbath January 29 2017  THANK GOD FOR HIS STORY

I’m here to help.  So what do I do on my first day of duty?  I sleep in until almost 8:00 a.m.  I was out like a light last night once I went to bed at 1:00 a.m.  I usually wake up quite early so rarely need to set an alarm.  But not today.  I guess the world got along without me. 

Last night I had my first lesson on stripping the wound drains.  Today I did on the job training with Lana’s husband looking on.  I passed the test.  I had my training session this morning on dressing changes.  I feel confident I can do the administrations in Tim’s absence. 

Yesterday was an awesome day.  My friend Siri was in excellent form and I was able to have voice commands through all the traffic.  As I approached Austin Texas the traffic seemed to pick up considerable.  Fewer interstates and lots of cars.  Traffic was backed up for miles all due to one car stalled alongside the fast lane on a transition highway,  Texas roads are well built, extremely complicated with layered bridges circling in the sky.  So many “lefts and rights” to adhere to in order to maneuver the correct transitions.  And I truly believe it was only God that allowed me to maneuver at speeds of 70-75 mph through all these transitions on highways that were often times six or seven lanes wide with turnoffs coming up quickly as the transitions took place.  I will always remember Austin for the its beautiful capitol building I visited two years ago.

San Antonio is also a beautiful city.  The buildings and homes there are mostly made of bricks, rocks, and other hard stuff.  I did not spend any time in the downtown area this trip.  As I drove through the area it brought back all the memories of two years ago when I spent a day at the Alamo right outside the city.  It was an awesome place to visit.  It beckoned me but I could not take the time to stop.

As I drove south and was approaching Corpus Christi I viewed vast expanses of plowed and furrowed land recently planted.  The soil was black and rich looking and went on for miles and miles.  In the distance I could see the outline of hills meeting the sky.  And it was as if God was painting a remarkable light show for me as I traveled south.  The sunset was spectacular.  It was in colors of amazing purples, highlights of red and orange, and powdery pink with flex of gold.  The sun was setting to my right.  In the low clouds left of me were amazing reflections mirroring the sunset with shades of lavender, blue, and pink.  The clouds surrounding the sunset were hanging low, as if finger-painted in place with myriad wisps of tendrils and swirls and scattered across an expanse of sky.  The colors so breathtaking and varied.  The entire world within my view was basking in the reflections of the sunset.  Lana informed me that this area is the Rio Grande Valley which produces innumerable kinds of produce.  I wish I could have stopped on the road and taken photos.

I arrived a bit after dark last night and there was a delicious dinner waiting for me.  Lana, Tim and I visited later than we should have.  It was late when I began my blog.  Thus, it took me twice as long to write something coherent.  So, today while Lana is resting I am writing this blog.  As I travel my blogs seems to be more about my journey and what I see.  I just fill up on the beauty that surrounds me, tuck it in my heart, and enjoy the next moment.

We took a break for lunch and now I am back.  Lana has decided she would like to go for a ride for some fresh air as the weather is now in the 70’s.  They plan to take me to the ocean!  I think I shall try to talk them out of it because I am concerned Lana may try to do too much too soon.  I’ve been there, done that!  And it is not good!

 

THANK GOD FOR HIS STORY

Kathleen Martens

January 29 2017

www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

The day is young, I’m living slow. 

So many places I could go.

A world awaits in renewing birth,

And of beauty there is no dearth.

 

The evening sky basking in glory,

Yesterday’s tale, revealing its story.

The awesome wonder of God’s creation

Fills my heart with such elation.

 

Colors and swirls in magnificent array

Splayed throughout, any which way.

Art in the making by God’s hands,

And oh such joy it does command.

 

It’s as if God pleasures in the beauty of light

And sparkles the earth with such delight.

In awe struck wonder my heart is filled,

And my spirit is gently stilled.

 

Wherever I go such wonders exists,

And it seems for my joy they consist.

And I never cease to thank God for His story,

Because I know He is sharing His glory.

 

Thank You God for timing my arrival.

Thank You too for my safe travels.

Thank You for your provisions for this trip.

Thank You for today.

 

HAVE A GREAT AFTERNOON AND WONDERFUL EVENING.

GOD’S BLESSING BE UPON YOU.

 

Saturday January 28 2017  HE’S ALREADY PAID THE COST

 

Another day of driving.  All alone with only Siri’s voice directing my pathway.  It would have been difficult for me to find my way without Siri’s ever present promptings.  And depending on the road noise I could change the volume of her voice so I could hear above the din of traffic noise.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could just hear the Spirit of Jesus speaking to us like we can hear the GPS?  When we don’t know which way to go in life it would be much simpler if we could just turn up the volume and listen for the directions that God speaks to us.

In order to hear what my GPS is saying I must invest my time in order to learn how to use my cell phone.  I spend time laying the groundwork by creating a relationship with my phone.  And even after I know what to do I must take the time to pick up my phone and type or speak my destination into the phone’s GPS program in order to have a response.

So it is with our Lord.  We must invest and read His manual (The Bible).  We need to know the ground rules and take time to know who God is.  Only when we participate and read the manual inspired by God will we be able to recognize His voice.  And the most important thing we must remember to do is to listen when He speaks.

And because of Siri’s computer voice that accompanied me on my solo journey this day, I was able to arrive at my destination without a hitch.  And I have long since learned that in order to arrive at the destination God has for me I must invest time for a relationship with Him.  And it seems on these quite days of driving, I can all the better hear God’s voice speaking to me because I am taking the time to listen.

 

HE’S ALREADY PAID THE COST

Kathleen Martens

January 28, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

My little phone is my tool

One of which I use.

When I ask a question

It responds without ruse.

 

I need to always be aware

Of where I’ve stashed my phone,

And must take it with me,

And never leave it home.

 

It can brighten my way

In the darkness of night,

But I must be the one

To turn on the light.

 

The little phone is powerful

And programed to do much.

But I must make an investment

By using my own touch.

 

It is a tool that costs a lot

But we think it enhances life,

True, it is a great convenience,

But can also cause much strife.

 

It is quite different with my Lord.

I never worry about Him being lost.

He never charges for his power

Because He’s already paid the cost.

 

He comes with a manual

That offers me a plan,

That teaches me to hear His voice,

And He holds me in His hand.

 

He IS my light in the dark

And is always by my side.

I know His voice when He speaks

Because daily we confide.

 

 

 

Thank You God for always being with me.

Thank You God that You speak to my heart.

Thank You Jesus that You are the light that leads the way.

Thank You for the plan You have for my life.

 

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU

Friday January 27 2017  THREE LITTLE GIRLS

Another interesting day!  A very long day of driving.  Arrived at my destination in the Fort Worth area a short time after dark.  NO RAIN TODAY AND NO SNOW TODAY!  The morning temperature started out at 28 degrees and when I arrived in Fort Worth Texas it was 48 degrees.

Before I left home I noticed that the “chip” on the one and only credit card I use for every day purposes had worked itself loose.  Because of leaving earlier than planned I had no time to contact the credit card service. I did go to the bank that stands behind it but there was nothing that they could do since they don’t issue cards directly from the bank.

So, I decided to use the one and only other card we have for all my trip expenses.  In the last few days I have filled up with gas several times each day while on the road.  Earlier today my card was denied.  Over and over it was denied at the pump.  I called the number on the back of the card and was told that chances are it was flagged because of unusual pattern of use.  We usually only charged something on the card a couple of times of year so it would stay active in case we needed a back-up for some reason.  And that reason finally happened.  The woman (a real live person) I spoke with on the phone today made certain to attach a note to the account so that the charges will not be denied again.  I thought all was taken care of.  That is, until I needed the next tank of gasoline.  Again, it was denied.  So, I am stuck between a rock and hard place.  Perhaps another phone call will get things straightened out.  Oh how I dread that.  I only spent about 15 minutes on the phone waiting for my turn to talk to someone earlier today.  But the problem is that I do not have a spare 15 moments or more to talk on the phone to get this card situation straightened out.  And now I must do it all over again.  Oh well, at least I was able to fill up my gas tank one last time.   But that will only get me about 300 miles or so.

I left Fort Scott at about 9:00 a.m. this morning and arrived in Hurst at about 7:30 p.m.  I had a lot of stops, including the half hour layover regarding the card debacle.  I also found an Aldi’s Market and had the opportunity to stop and buy fruit and goat cheese.  Then I needed to stop and eat my picnic lunch, so I lost time there as well.  I am thankful for a day of protection, especially since I was driving in Texas.  And, I found a great way to combat the fast drivers in Texas.  It’s simple, I just drive as fast as the Texan’s do and I discovered I fit in quite nicely.  Thoroughfares through in the city limits have speed limits of 75 mpg. It reminded me of being in a hot-air balloon.  You move with the wind and therefore there is no breeze.  So be it is with the automobiles.   Just slip in a lane of traffic and go with the flow and you don’t feel the rushing.  It worked today.

My cousin Nora talked to me during my last 45 minutes of driving and guided me in; sort of like what a lighthouse does for ships.  Unfortunately my cell phone’s GPS would no longer work for me.  The Dallas/Fort Worth area is not made for sissies.  It is sort of like going on your own private “Lewis and Clark” expedition every time you get on the road.  You never know what is yet to come.

I had a nice visit with Nora and one of her sisters who was able to come over after dinner.  The three of us sat around and probably thought about how old the others looked.  It is interesting to see the aging process up close and personal to those we knew as infants and children.  There is a special comradery in such relationships.  We have known each other since infancy and understand so much about each other’s lives that it takes just a few words bring back a cascade of memories for all of us

 

AGE-OLD MEMORIES

Kathleen Martens

January 27, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

Cascade of memories flood our hearts

When three old ladies become little girls.

As we now sit in staid stance

Our memories around us swirl.

 

Memories of childhood antics,

Splashing the bathtub water!

At their house it was me in trouble

And I wasn’t even their daughter.

 

Sunburns and magic sheets on the line,

And planes flying in for a landing

And we each knew our own place

And we learned not to be demanding.

 

Oh such fun were those days,

Summertime in each other’s beds.

Trips to the beach and camping out,

And the delicious food my aunt fed.

 

Boyfriend’s and letters galore,

Church camp and frilly lace.

Little memories wiggles loose

And take up center space.

 

And I’ll be gone the morrow

But my little girl still dances inside.

It does an old heart good like medicine

When  in age-old memories we abide.

 

Thank You God that I have lived long enough to become an old lady and look back and reminisce.

Thank You for your daily protection.

Lord, I am so thankful for the reunion of us three “girls”.

 

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU.

 

 

Thursday January 26 2017  MEMORIES

 

THE HEART OF A FAMILY

Kathleen Martens

January 26 2017

www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

Never have I seen such beautiful images,

Smiling faces looking back at me.

Shelf after shelf framed with patience

Posed for the world to see.

 

Walls of history telling a story

Of family, life, and love.

Born of seed with a purpose

Designed by God above.

 

Mothers and daughters, generations born.

Father and sons, lived and died,

Sit on shelves celebrating existence,

And in hearts they still abide.

 

“The cobbler’s children have no shoes.”  “The photographer’s children have no portraits.”

One old saying, one new saying (mine).  Only after seeing all the dozens of framed smiling faces hanging on walls, sitting on shelves, and posted in albums of the places I have stayed on this trip did I realize the lack of same in my own house.  It’s not that I lack pictures. I actually have a few thousand prints; all stacked away in boxes, drawers and closets.  I have simply not had the time, or taken the, time to work on framing the pictures of my own precious children and grandchildren, thus the photographer’s children have no portraits.  That will change.  My heart was warmed by all the old and faded portraits, as well as the new and vivid prints.  Few and fewer of today’s generation have the good old fashioned, hands-on photographic prints.  Lots of cell phone peeks but nothing to brighten the walls, shelves, or in creative albums.

I have decided that will change that before I am dead.  I need some time to reflect on those past smiles of grandparents, parents as well as our own little kids, our grown version of our kids, and now our son’s sons.  Even reminders of our yesteryears need to be present as a pleasant reminder of our youth.  The homes I have stayed in or visited have all had dozens of portraits and snapshots on display.  It’s as if their walls celebrate the story of their lives.  Well, I decided I would like to do the same. 

Thank You God for my family.

Thank You God for opening my eyes to the beauty of celebrating each life with portrait memories.

Thank You for Your continued protection on our trip.

 

GOOD NIGHT.  REMEMBER TO CELEBRATE YOUR FAMILY!

Most of all, celebrate that you are a child of God. 

Wednesday January 25 2017  ANOTHER ADVENTURE

When two “elderly” ladies are on a trip together it is an unending adventure.  The adventure may be something as a good laugh, or talking together as you fall asleep, learning how to use new shower controls, taking the wrong turn on the interstate system, or not being able to climb up on the bed because it is too high.  The adventures just do not end.

Today was another awesome day on our lists of adventures.  Let just say we became acquainted with the city of Des Moines, and that was just on the way to the capitol building.  And then I became very acquainted with the capitol and all the one way streets encircling the building.  ONE-WAY?  What does that mean? 

Since Marilyn fell and hurt her ankle she cannot walk very far without pain.  I wanted her to come into the capitol and let me push her in a wheel chair but we had one problem.  The capitol was surrounded with lots and lots of steps leading up to the entrances.  I stopped a sheriff and asked if there was a disability entrance so I could drive close to drop Marilyn off.  He wasn’t from the area and did not know.  I then asked a lady in a crosswalk the same question.  She said yes there was, but I had to go around the capitol and enter at the opposite side.  So I went around the capitol again and found out I was then trespassing because the area I was in was only for workers and were reserved.  I ran into the capitol and left Marilyn sitting in the car hoping she wouldn’t be towed away.  I was actually more concerned about the car being towed.

One of the staff retrieved a wheel chair and came out and wheeled Marilyn into the capitol.  Whew!  She didn’t need to wait in the car afterall!  That is what she wanted to do because she did not think she could walk on a tour.  I would not hear of that idea.  Once she was ensconced in a comfortable seat and she realized how easy it was for me to push her on the tiled and marbled floor she agreed to come along on the tour.  WE BOTH ENJOYED THE TOUR IMMENSELY!

Of all the capitol buildings I have toured I must confess that this capitol is the most unique of all.  Its beauty is beyond words.  The workmanship, the creativity, the way it was built, how it was constructed, the talent that is displayed in its creation is beyond imagination unless you are there to see it yourself.  It is a building I would love to see again and I have not yet left the area. 

Our next adventure was discovering the fine dining event we looked forward to.  We drove quite a distance to go to a restaurant which was referred to us by a local.  Once we arrived, we realized if we couldn’t understand the menu when we read it, perhaps we shouldn’t’ eat there.  Besides, Marilyn preferred a juicy hamburger from Burger King and I yearned for a customized pizza from Subway.  We found both restaurants side by side.  Marilyn ordered the hamburger, I walked next door and ordered my pizza at Subway and joined her at Burger King where we ate together.  It was a perfect adventure because we both ended up quite content.

Now if our “exciting adventure” doesn’t impress you I just don’t know what will.   Perhaps knowing that wherever we drove on the city streets and highways it snowed constantly will make our day seem a bit more interesting.  I must admit that trying to stop a car during rush hour at a downhill light was truly quite the adventure.  And it always seemed like we were going downhill.

We made it back to our abode and had interesting conversations with the couple we are staying with. 

 

A BEAUTIFUL MEMORY FOR ANOTHER DAY

Kathleen Martens

January 25 2017

www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

 

Thank You Lord for the wonderful day

With sunshine in my heart and snow at play.

White sky, white land, white cars in mass

And driving downhill was quite a task.

 

Easy to go down on slippery streets,

However the breaking was quite a feat.

What a day to be out and about,

When the heavens were pouring out.

 

But all is well and I’ll soon be in bed

And what a joy to lay down my head.

Another adventure tucked safely away

A beautiful memory for another day.

 

Thank You God for Your protection.

Thank You God for the fact that we escaped the worst of the snow by coming early.

Thank You Lord that Marilyn and I had the opportunity to meet such a wonderful family at our host home.

 

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU

Monday January 23 2017  WHEN IT RAINS IT POURS

Last week was an unbelievable week due to the problems with the well, icy roads, painting delays, and other things that cropped up that I can’t even remember now.  It all seems so long ago.  And now this week is just as busy with the unexpected.

I will be leaving on Wednesday before dawn for Corpus Christi, Texas.  I will be dropping a friend off in Kansas.  And supposedly I should be packed and ready to go by  6:00 a.m. on Wednesday.  Hmmm…I wonder if that will happen (the packing part that is).  I will be leaving, Lord willing, but I just wonder if I’ll remember to take what I need.  As of yet I have not had a moment to even get my suitcase out of the closet.  I did think to gather the dirty clothes so Dave could get them washed.  At least those will be ready by tomorrow’s deadline.  I’m so thankful for washing machines AND WATER!

And now, I have another cog in the wheel.  It is time to pay my blog fee and I can’t figure out how to do it.  Two years ago when I set up the blog a friend helped me.  He set it up through his computer, paid for it with his credit card, and ever since he has received my renewal notices.  He forwarded this year’s notice to me, as he did last year.  We couldn’t figure out how to get it transferred to my name and my computer, so I still can’t pay it.  When my friend forwarded it to me he wrote, “Make sure your domain gets renewed”, but my computer will not allow me to access what I need because my purchasing history is all on his computer.

How fortunate that I received the message before I left for Corpus Christi or my blog may not have been waiting for me when I returned.  Now all I must do on this late date and time is contact my friend and figure out once again how to get around this.  I would rather have everything transferred to me but it seems unlikely that it will happen.  There is not even a contact for me to connect with.  I’m just hope my friend is in town.  I suppose as long as he is alive and well he could keep renewing it but one never knows what tomorrow holds for either of us.  I’ve sent out my SOS so I hope he responds.  Just one more thing to take care of before I pack.  When it rains, it pours!  And that sounds like a pretty good forecast when I look at the weather report for Wednesday and see that it is supposed to snow Tuesday night and Wednesday morning.  If the Lord wills, we will go on scheduled.

The “we” I am referring to is me and my friend Marilyn.  And, if all goes well we have some adventures to attend to.  On Wednesday we plan to visit the State Capitol building in Des Moines, Iowa, stay in an Airbnb for the night and then on Thursday drive to Independence, Kansas and view Truman’s Library.  I will then drop Marilyn off at her niece’s house and spend the night at her niece’s home in Fort Scott, Kansas.  Friday I will travel to Hurst, Texas which is outside of Fort Worth, Texas.  My cousin lives there and has graciously said she could put up with me for one night.

On Saturday I will point the car toward Corpus Christi, with a short stop in San Antonio, to have a visit with a very special friend from over 40 years ago.  This special lady was the catalyst for Dave and me to adopt our daughter.  Our story is phenomenal and was definitely orchestrated by God’s timing.  No coincidence, all divine encounters, with the day and time in perfect synchronicity.

Then for the last leg of the trip I will finish the day driving an additional two and a half hours  to Corpus Christi. 

I will return by the same route and will be home sometime in February.  Dave seems confident that he can fend for himself.  He knows he has two freezers to eat out of and I have left prepared foods in the fridge.  But, I am taking all the Brussels sprouts with me!  I might allow Marilyn to eat ONE.

Please pray for us to have a safe round trip.  I really need to finish my sister’s Family Heritage Album.  Should something happen to me my husband said he would not finish designing the album for me!  I just hope I don’t leave too many loose ends when my expiration date arrives. 

 

FOR YOU ARE HIS CHILD

Kathleen Martens

January 23, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

We never know what tomorrow holds,

Nor this moment, nor this hour.

Seize each instant and live it bold

As you walk bravely in the Lord’s power.

 

Live every moment in the moment given.

It is the only time you are guaranteed living.

Yesterday is gone, tomorrow never comes,

Cherish life’s pleasures, both work and fun.

 

Put your whole being in the presence of now

For each tick of the clock is what life allows.

Fear not for the future, nor regret the past,

Because the human body will not last.

 

But you can prepare for the great unknown

By discovering the truths that are shown.

In God’s Word, is a map written in love

That gives direction how to meet God above.

 

Where there will be no clocks, no deadlines to beat,

No more sorrow, no more defeat.

And you’ll live eternally in God’s perfect plan

Because you were first born as woman or man.

 

So regret not your years for you are God’s treasure,

And He created you for His own pleasure

That someday you would dwell by His throne,

For you are His child, one of His own.

 

Thank You God that I can put my entire trust in You.

Thank You for the opportunity to go to Corpus Christi to be with my friend.

Thank You for my little KIA SOUL.

Thank You for Your protective angels.

Thank You for opening the door so Marilyn and I could enjoy this venture together.

 

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU!

 

 

Sunday Sabbath January 22 2017  FOOTLOOSE AND FANCY FREE

 

FOOTLOOSE AND FANCY FREE

Kathleen Martens

January 22, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

A bit of excitement

Lingers in the air

When I think of what’s coming up

And the getting here to there.

 

I’m ready to go exploring

The roads that lie ahead.

I have a purpose and a mission

To find a place to lay my head.

 

We’re leaving Wednesday morning

The classy old dame and me,

And just for a little while

Footloose and fancy free.

 

Our journey begins with my friend and I

But ends up in solitude.

A long drive awaits the pedal

Thank goodness for aptitude.

 

Another journey does begin

With a destination lingering,

And hopefully it will conclude,

Before I am withering.

 

Off to visit a dear friend,

And so thankful am I

That I can drive 1400 miles,

Because I do not like to fly.

 

Pray prayers for protection

As God with us abides.

And  ask that His angels

With us are allied.

 

Exhilaration and expectation

Are contained within my being

As I anticipate God’s beautiful gifts

That I will be seeing.

 

So much to see if we but look

With expectation in our hearts.

And I give thanks for everything

As this new journey I start.

 

Thank You God for Your provision for this trip.

Thank You God for the protection You provide.

Thank You that my friend is going part way with me.

Thank You Lord for continued healing for Lana’s body through her upcoming surgery.

Thank You God that Your spirit is with us wherever we go.

 

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU.

 

Saturday January 21 2017  AN INTERESTING WEEK TO SAY THE LEAST

This has been a very interesting and extremely busy week for me.  I have another such week I am anticipating.  So, I must rest.  Lots to do to get ready for the trip I discussed last night.  I have only one goal left today and that is to find a poem somewhere inside me and wish my readers well.

 

EACH MOMENT A PLEASURE

Kathleen Martens

January 21, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

Such a wonderful day

Shared with a friend,

But tomorrow’s hours

Will just not lend.

 

So I am out of time

And need to sleep

So all that is undone

For tomorrow will keep.

 

Every hour savored;

Each moment a pleasure.

And so many memories

Are now my treasure.

 

I worry not

For what is yet to come

I live in each moment

And then it is done.

 

No time to regret

Or for the future stew.

I just need a good night’s sleep

And then more things I can do.

 

Thank You God for today.

Thank You for the people you bring into my life.

Thank You for our comfortable memory foam pad on our mattress.

 

GOOD NIGHT, GOD BLESS YOU, AND I WISH YOU WELL!

Friday January 20 2017  A DAY IN HISTORY

I’ll always remember today as a day in history.  I took a long awaited class to learn Light Room!  Oh, but before that I did watch Donald J. Trump’s inauguration.  So all in all, it will be looked back upon as a good day.  I’ll look back and remember that Donald Trump became president on the day of my class.

Right now I have a lot of other things on my mind.  The first being that I will be leaving on a trip this week, though my departure date is not yet determined.  My friend Lana who moved to a new location this past year will be facing major surgery and due to circumstances will not have a weekday care giver during her post surgery recovery.  She asked if she provided a round-trip airplane ticket if I would come for a week.  She lives in Corpus Christi Texas. 

I do not like to fly.  I choose not to fly.  I would rather drive wherever I go.  I will go and help her.  And I will drive.  I figure if I could go on an 11,000 mile trip by myself I could surly drive 1,400 miles to Corpus Christi.  I have my maps and my routes, and my alternate routes if needed.  I must still set up reservations and pack for the journey.  Please remember me in your prayers as I head out this week.

WHEN WE LEAST EXPECT IT

Kathleen Martens

January 20, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

When we least expect it

Our plans do often change,

And in the blink of an eye

Our plans seem out of range.

 

Thoughts and prayers are a must

In order to make decisions,

And when in unity with our Lord

Peace received through God’s precision.

 

And so I choose to drive.

My friend’s ticket will safely be

Waiting until she is well,

So she can come and visit me.

 

Lord, thank You for continued healing for Lana.

Thank You Lord that I have the availability to go.

Thank You Lord for your protection over me as I travel.

Thank You Lord for being with my friend during her long and difficult battle against cancer.

Thank You Lord for my health.

 

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU.

Thursday January 19 2017  A DISCOMBOBULATED DAY

 

A DISCOMBOBULATED DAY

Kathleen Martens

January 19, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

So what do I write

Now the day is gone?

Perhaps I should compose

A beautiful song?

 

Or maybe tell about

My shopping trip

Or the icy sidewalks

Where I almost slipped.

 

When I’m searching ideas

What words should I say

About this very

Discombobulated day?

 

I will mention one thing

I don’t like to confess,

My day was so crowded

From the gym I recessed.

 

I was busy from morning

To this very night.

I would have had more time

But talking’s my plight.

 

The car dealership,

Then to Triple A,

And then to Best Buy

Made for such a long day.

 

And all of the rest

That had to be done

Kept me quite busy

During a day without sun.

 

Costco for chicken

And water for a trip

So that as I travel

I can take a nip.

 

But the upcoming trek

Is another story

To be told tomorrow

So I am not boring.

 

I must finish this poem

Because I’m a sleepy-head,

Then when morning comes

I can get out of bed.

 

No blog tonight

Due to my limited time

So I bid you goodnight

And hope your sleep is sublime.

 

Thank You Lord for this busy day and that I was able to accomplish what I needed to do.

Thank You for the strength You give me each day.

Thank You for always being by my side.

 

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wednesday January 18  2017  WHEN KISSED BY HEAVEN

If you read Monday’s blog you will remember that we were limited in water use due to something gone awry in our well.  Yes, some people do still have their own wells and their own refuse treatment facility (that which is known as a septic tank).  And that would be us.  It is not fun to be without water.  However this time it was for only a few days and the water was not totally gone.  Monday’s icy roads prohibited driving so we had to wait until Tuesday.  And then Tuesday the roads weren’t much better so it didn’t happen Tuesday morning either.  However, the roads did thaw a bit due to the help of the salting and sanding trucks so the well specialist were able to come to our rescue later that day.  So the well works.

And then Dave decided to watch television and discovered that something was not working with our Direct TV satellite dish.  So along toward evening we were able to connect with the Philippines to discuss our issue and set up an appointment for repair for Wednesday (which is today).

And if you remember, the painter also had to cancel on Monday due to the road conditions.  He did come on Tuesday and was able to get two coats of pale green paint to cover the deepest dark maroon color you have ever seen.  But…two coats wouldn’t suffice so he had to schedule an early morning visit for today.  He showed up, painted and all is well.  After the painter left the Direct TV repairman arrived.  Dave was gone in the morning.  He came home for a quick lunch and left again for the afternoon.  And so I was left to manage the shop. 

When Dave moved the furniture out of his den to have the room painted he also removed a crucial component that must be connected in order to receive the information from the Satellite.  Primarily that was our issue.  However, it was found that the original installation was installed improperly and due to the wet ground our wiring was in danger of failing.  So…Mr. Direct TV man was here for most of the afternoon.  He did an excellent job of repairing and replacing and cleaning up the situation that the last installer had done. 

All was well until we began testing to make certain everything worked.  We had no Wi-Fi.  And that was not connected to the Direct TV installation.  All said and done, the Wi-Fi finally woke up and all was well.  Whew!  This has been a busy week and I haven’t much to show for it. 

When the house was once again my quiet domain I put on my coat and headed to the library to return books which were due today.  And…I end up meeting a stranger, talking awhile, writing my poem, and reading the latest large print edition of THE READER’S DIGEST.  No phones ringing, no one painting, no repair men, no laundry washing or drying, and no timers going off.  I settled myself in my favorite chair with a window overlooking a beautiful rocky view and enjoyed my reverie.

The sun was shining and my getting out of the house today was the best thing I could have done.  The sun was brilliant after days of overcast and freezing rain.  The temperature hovered just above freezing but the parking lots were still icy.  However cold it was the sunshine alone made it worth my effort to return by library books.

I wrote the following poem from my favorite chair in the presence of the afternoon’s sunshine.

 

WHEN KISSED BY HEAVEN

Kathleen Martens

January 18, 2017

www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

Haven’t seen the sun

For many a day

And when I ventured outside

I was so amazed!

 

Sparkling light

In afternoon’s glow,

Sunshine in splendor

To the world shows.

 

A lift to my spirit,

A simple rebirth,

As if my heart was singing

For all its worth.

 

And my spirit smiled

In the dazzling rays

When kissed by heaven

On this sunshiny day.

 

And my day was complete.  I went back  home and prepared some letters for mailing.

 

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU.

I LOOK FORWARD TO TOMORROW.

Tuesday January 17 2017  BUT RATHER MY FRIEND

 

BUT RATHER MY FRIEND

Kathleen Martens

January 17, 2017

www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

A woman’s work

Is never done

And regardless the task

I try to make it fun.

 

Fun for one

Not fun for all,

I love cooking

To others a pall.

 

I don’t mind dusting

With my mind occupied,

I’m forever busy

And laziness denied.

 

Just to accomplish

Much in a day

Is quite the challenge

Because I make it like play.

 

Being retired

Helps out a lot

Because I can do

What I have sought.

 

Cutting and pasting

Scrapbooks together

Is one of those tasks

That only gets better.

 

Learning new programs,

Makes my computer a toy,

And I can be myself

Without acting coy.

 

I can sit and write

Or compose and sing,

And no one need hear

The lyrics I bring.

 

And sometimes I sweep

When the floor is a mess,

Though as seldom as possible

I must confess.

 

And laundry and folding?

Been there, done that!

But hubby does it now,

And that is a fact!

 

So I have more time

To discover my day.

So to the gym

I go and play.

 

And I wonder where

My hours go

And why my days run out

And time never slows.

 

Probably due

To all the people I meet

When I’m at Aldi’s

Or walking the streets.

 

No one is a stranger

As I smile at all

In order to break down

Barriers and walls.

 

And for a few moments

I hear part of their story,

And I’ve yet to find

One that is boring.

 

And so my day goes

From morning to night.

Every day a different ending

When I turn out the lights.

 

And I sleep when I must

And early I rise,

And my daily prep

I must surmise.

 

Soaking and brushing,

Scrubbing and cream,

Showering when needed

So I become clean.

 

Powder puffing,

Dressing and eating,

The morning passes

Ever so fleeting.

 

To begin again

A day yet unused

A treasure before me

On which to muse.

 

As long as I can think

I am never bored!

And very seldom

Am I ever floored.

 

Few things surprise me

And I roll with the punches,

I eat a great breakfast

Then make our lunches.

 

My knight in shining armor

Comes galloping in

And he cleans up the kitchen

So I can begin again.

 

So as you can see

My tasks never end.

They are not my adversary,

But rather my friend!

 

AND DAVE IS THE VERY BEST PART OF MY DAY!

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU!

Monday January 16 2017  A HOLIDAY

When I worked Monday through Friday holidays meant the world to me.  And there was nothing quite as wonderful as a day off.  However, now that I am retired holidays are only an interruption and nuisance to my weekly schedule.  Monday through Friday are the days I venture into the world at large without concern that the stores will be crowded.  That is when I shop, go sightseeing, receive mail, and call businesses for whatever service I may need (like when the water pressure in our well decreases) and the businesses are open. And of course if workers are needed to be dispatched the cost is always higher on a holiday or weekend.  But, emergencies are emergencies.  And we have one today.  And today is a holiday.

The holiday is not the main problem on this particular day as is the fact that our local roads are iced over.  And true to form, our well is losing pressure and air comes sputtering out of our faucets with diminished water flow.  We would be more than willing to pay holiday pricing but I am not willing to have someone drive so far out to us that they are in jeopardy due to road hazards.  Tomorrow should be better.  Both the painter and the well maintenance crew will show up tomorrow if roads are thawed.

So what happens when you have very little water to use?  First of all, you don’t flush the toilet.  Yellow is mellow and you bag the paper.  And you hope that brown goes down if you have enough water pressure left.  Hopefully this will be corrected by tomorrow at this time.  Of course there are no showers and very little use of water for hand washing.  But, we plan on surviving this glitch.  I suppose losing water pressure is better than losing our heat, especially when it is hovering below freezing outside.

And the brighter side of the situation is THAT WE ARE RETIRED, and because of that, it really doesn’t matter if we take a shower in the morning or not.  Another benefit is that we can arrange our schedule to be home regardless what day we may need the emergency maintenance.  And by not going shopping on this day I can be thankful that I did not spend anything today (I’ll just wait until tomorrow to buy groceries).  So there are the pros and cons for all situations.  But just so you know, NOTHING BEATS BEING RETIRED!  And to be honest, one reason Dave and I do not do our shopping in the evenings or on weekends is to lessen the crowds for those who do work throughout the week.

 

WE CAN STILL TINKLE

Kathleen Martens

January 16, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

Icy roads

And cold winds

Into hibernation

They do send.

 

Just the thought

Sends a chill

So inside

My day is filled.

 

Water or not

We can still tinkle.

The falderol

Is but a wrinkle.

 

Hopefully tomorrow

It will be over

And our toileting

Will be in clover.

 

I do hope my poem topic did not insult your sensitivities!

 

God, thank You so much for toilets that flush.

Thank You too that there are specialists to take care of our well.

Thank You Lord for the reminder of how much we take for granted.

Thank You too for providing us a warm house to live in.

Thank You for Your love.

 

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU!

I do hope all is right in your world.

 

 

Sunday Sabbath January 15 2017  A LAZY DAY

 

SUNDAY SABBATH A DAY OF REST

Kathleen Martens

January 15, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

Time to rest on Sabbath day

Time my thoughts to deeply weigh.

To settle down in peaceful respite,

Before exertion makes me desperate.

 

Sometimes I just can’t seem to stop,

And then I know I need to plop.

Not because I’m tired, but just in case,

That I not expire before tomorrow’s race.

 

The most difficult task for me to do

Is to lie down and kick off my shoes.

I’d rather be up, flittering around

Because my energy seems to abound.

 

And for that I give God my thanks

Because being grateful highly ranks.

God delights in our love and in our praise

So I send both heavenward throughout my days.

 

Thanking God for everything I can do

Because someday I’ll be unable to pursue.

So I will take a rest, when rest is needed.

A new discipline that must be heeded.

 

And since Sunday Sabbath is a day of rest

I’ll be still and rejuvenate all my zest.

I’ll laze away and do no more,

Then go to bed and soundly snore.

 

GOOD NIGHT!  GOD BLESS YOU!

Saturday January 14 2017  WITH JOY I COULD JUMP AND SHOUT

WITH JOY I COULD JUMP AND SHOUT

Kathleen Martens

January 14, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

I am at such a loss for words

Because I have been so blessed,

All because of meeting a family

Who we asked to be our guest.

 

A cup of soup, a plate of salad

Was the fare they received.

However it was I who was the recipient

I really do believe.

 

Sometimes life has harsh reality,

Smiles lacking from people’s faces.

You never know whom you can trust

When going to different places.

 

But then someone comes along

Sharing happiness and goodwill.

And most of all sharing time,

Dropping all pretense and shield.

 

And I’m so thankful God brings along

Those who redeem mankind

By being so friendly and so helpful,

Because they’re truly hard to find.

 

They share their hearts and their souls

While doing good towards another.

And God brought them into our day,

A father, daughter and mother.

 

And I say thank you for the time

They offered to help me out.

I am so thrilled with their gift of knowledge,

With joy I’d like to jump and shout!

 

The above poem is actually a continuing saga from yesterday.  The couple I spoke of yesterday came over again today to pick up some items from us.  While they were here I asked the man if he could spare some time to go over some instructions for the class I’m scheduled to take Tuesday night.  Though he taught me some things when they were here on Thursday it was difficult for me to retain all that I needed in order to be able navigate the computer program for the class.  The young man willingly and patiently walked me through the instructions multiple times so I could have a better grasp of the fundamental steps.  He was patient, and that is a good thing when trying to help an old brain learn new tricks.

 

I am so very grateful for his kindness and the patience of his wife’s demeanor as she sat in the room with us.  I now have a bit more confidence. I pray the Lord will bring people just like them to come along in your life too.  Dave and I have both been blessed through them.

 

Thank You Lord that I still have the desire to learn.

Thank You for those willing to teach.

Thank You Heavenly Father that Your timing is always perfect!

 

GOOD NIGHT!  The world is a better place because of these precious people.

Friday January 13 2017  ANGELS UNAWARE

 

ANGELS UNAWARE

Kathleen Martens

January 13, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

What should I learn

Now that I’m old?

What good will it do

When I’m ready to fold?

 

Should I fill my head?

Be smarter when dead?

Or should I just enjoy living

My moments given?

 

When I fill my thoughts

With new facts and figures,

Will my head explode

As it becomes bigger?

 

What shall I do

With the knowledge I learn?

It will not increase

What I might earn.

 

So what should I do

When there’s data to know,

And I desire so deeply

New information to stow?

 

But as quickly as I learn

It disappears with haste.

So the time it takes learning

Is it all for waste?

 

So I give pause

And think some more.

And I’ve decided

To settle the score.

 

I’ll just do what I want

And keep filling my brain

With all I can learn

In hopes I stay sane.

 

The more I read

The more I enjoy.

The more I listen

More thoughts employed

 

I have aspirations to learn

So will traipse ahead

To acquire all I can

So my brain stays fed.

 

I will stay engaged

Because life inspires,

And new knowledge is food

That sets me afire.

 

I hope to not lose

My passion for knowledge

Because I’ve decided my old age

Will be a version of college.

 

 

The above poem was inspired by an online class I joined midstream today that was teaching Lightroom to beginners.  Lightroom is a program to correct and edit RAW images from a digital camera.  There are so many details I will need to learn.  It made my head spin a bit but I persevered and listened intently so that I MIGHT learn.  For my aged mind the class seems quite exhaustive and meticulous to master.  Perhaps I shall never master it, but I can at least learn the basics on how to process the digital images of my 2015 trip.  Actually, I don’t think it would have been any simpler to learn the program with my younger mind.  But, I am determined to try, and I guess I’ll just have to use the brain I have. 

 

Last night God sent me an angel is disguise.  He came disguised as a husband, a father, a fellow Christ follower, and as a guest at our table.  Little did I realize that our dinner guest was my prayer being answered when he walked through our door.  I mentioned at the end of dinner the fact that I was enrolled in a Lightroom class next week and needed to cancel my license agreement on one computer so I would have licensing permission to install it on another computer.  This would have taken me hours to probe and correct.  I had totally forgotten that he had mentioned he was an I.T worker.  Well, he promptly went down to my computer and had everything figured out and in working order within a short while.  I was dumbfounded.  He then he stayed until I had downloaded all my camera cards into Lightroom so I would have them ready for next week’s class.  What he did was simply amazing to me.  It gave me such a great sense of relief to actually believe that I will now have the tools I need to learn this program.  Oh do I ever thank God he walked into our home last night.  I only hope to get to know his entire family at a deeper level in the years to come.

 

It is always such a blessing when God brings special people into our lives.  Last night was truly one of those blessings.  It was so refreshing to be with a young couple and their delightful infant daughter.  It took less than one evening for both Dave and I to fall in love with their baby.  God is just so good to us.

 

Thank You God for fulfilling the desires of our heart.

Thank You God for the people You bring into our lives.

Thank You for new life in the form of a beautiful baby daughter.

Thank You God that You place Your children in the paths of others to become their angels.

 

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU.

 

Go out and invite someone over to your house for dinner.  You might be surprised when God brings angels to your door instead.  Three came to our house last night!