Wednesday May 31 2017  I AM SO HAPPY I HAVE THINGS TO DO

 

I AM SO HAPPY I HAVE THINGS TO DO

Kathleen Martens

May 31, 2017

www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

 

Why does a day walk away

As if it’s galloping by?

Why does a month flee so swift

That it seems to fly?

 

I’m holding on to every moment

That sifts through my hands.

I try to lasso hours to use

To do as I command.

 

But no matter what I do

Regardless how speedy I work.

I never accomplish all I desire

Because I have no moments that lurk.

 

But the joy of everyday

Is that I did my very best

To accomplish what I could,

Before my night of rest.

 

And so I plan tomorrow’s fair.

I am so happy I have things to do.

Like downsizing all my “stuff”,

And my kids are so happy too.

 

And so my days are always spent.

I never have hours unused.

I am so fortunate I can still work

And always have things to ensue.

 

An update on the album pages for those who are interested.  And if you are not interested…that’s okay too!  I have finished all the labeling on each page.  My next endeavor is to go through each page one by one, making certain I didn’t leave anything out, arrange them in the accurate order of how I want them presented, and then prepare them for their photo session.  That will be a tedious endeavor. 

While making pizza today I had an overwhelming melancholy descend on me for just a few seconds.  I was thinking about my dear departed Aunt Estell and it just seemed as if she should still be alive and here or earth.  I so wanted to share something with her and desired to talk with her.  She seemed so alive to me for those few seconds as I thought about her and then the melancholy made its appearance.  Of course reality immediately returned and I was well aware that it was not possible to talk with her or any of the others in my family who have died.  While designing the album pages it was as if I was enjoying their company all over again.  Today it became apparent as to how soon I will be closing this chapter of my life.  Working on the album has been a great adventure and an incredible saga.  I did not think I would ever hear myself voice these words, but I think I shall actually be sorry when it is finished.  That is…until I begin working on the album(s) for mine and Dave’s immediate family history.  Now that one will probably take me the rest of my life!

Two years ago I experienced an amazing trip to visit my loved ones who are still living, as well as long-time friends who had a great influence on my life.  It too was an incredible saga: one I will never forget.  I will always be thankful that I had the opportunity to experience such a quest.  Well, working on this album ranks in the same category as my physical journey.  Creating the album pages have also been an incredible and unbelievable account of delving back into my history.  Faces…names…birth-dates…places…periods of time…all rattle around in my head as I think about those I love, both past and present. I visited with each relative once again through this paper odyssey.  I am just so thankful to be able to look back and REMEMBER.  The brain is an incredible organ!  As I age I do not take memory for granted due to the fact that my mother, my grandmother, and my great grandmother no longer had the ability to even remember their children or their names toward the end of their lives.  At present   I more than likely know more names of in-laws, cousins, their kids, and even some of their grandchildren and great grandchildren at this stage of my life.  And for the ability to remember I am so grateful; BUT I SHALL NEVER TAKE IT FOR GRANTED!

So now I will return to my craft room and my pile of beloved memories.  I shall enjoy all which I have remaining to do and use up the hours of each day as I give thanks to God for the opportunity to have been blessed by such an incredible experience such as this.  I just wish time did not go by so quickly.

 

Thank You God for my hands…so I can do.

Thank You God for my eyesight…to see what I need to do.

Thank You God that I can walk…so I can get where I need to go.

Thank You God for my hearing…so I can hear the voices of those I love and hear birds singing.

Thank You God that I can sit down…so I can work at my desk.

Thank You God for my brain…which controls my bodily functions.

Thank You God for my nose…so I can smell the fragrance of your flowers.

Thank You God for my mouth…so I can tell others about who You are.

Thank You God for my memory…so that I can remember who You are.

 

GOD BLESS YOU ON YOUR ODYSSEY OF LIFE. 

Tuesday May 30 2017  I HOPE I LEAVE THE VERY LAST TIME…

 

I HOPE I LEAVE THE VERY LAST TIME…

Kathleen Martens

May 30, 2017

www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

All day long we’ve been around town

For business, searching, and shopping,

With appointments and many stops

The day kept us hopping!

 

Here and there and everywhere

We drove lots of miles,

On the freeways with lots of cars

Traveling fast down little aisles.

 

Perhaps I am just getting old

Or the population has grown too big!

Too many people going every which way,

So for me it was quite the jig. 

 

I don’t mind driving city streets

When I am on a far away trip.

I’d rather not have crowds so close

With so many cars shiny and hip.

 

I’d rather take slow country roads

To travel hither and yon.

It is so exasperating on city streets!

Back roads are much more calm.

 

And so I choose what time to leave,

As well as when to arrive home.

Now that there are so many people

Certain times I choose not to roam.

 

My heart longs for serenity and peace

And a view that feeds my soul.

 I need not look anywhere else

When I’ve already attained my goal.

 

Being home is my favorite place.

And I am content with where I am,

Right next door to some special dogs

And Michael, Karen, and Sam!

 

But the future looms ahead,

What awaits us none of us know.

I prefer to live where I reside

Until it is my time to go.

 

The day will come; I’ll be no more,

And for better or for worse

I hope I leave the very last time

Carried out of my home feet first.

 

And in that hour mourn not for me

For we each have an expiration date.

And if you plan on going to heaven

I’ll greet you at the pearly gate!

 

Thank You God for all the people You have created.

Thank You God for back roads.

Thank You that I live in this time and in this place.

Thank You for this day and for providing all our needs.

 

HAVE A GREAT DAY WHATEVER ROAD YOU TRAVEL!

GOD BLESS YOU!

Monday May 29 2017  “THANK YOU” IS NEVER ENOUGH

 

“THANK YOU” IS NEVER ENOUGH

Kathleen Martens

May 29, 2017 Memorial Day

www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

Who is not here to celebrate today?

Who was not born and had no say?

What voices were stilled because of death?

What baby not conceived to breathe a breath?

 

Men of valor so bravely died

As their blood mixed with comrades by their side.

Some had wives and were already fathers

Who left behind little sons and daughters.

 

Yet others whose offspring are not to be;

Faces that grandparents will never see.

Who are those missing upon this earth?

What boy or girl was never given birth?

 

From all the wars of pain and death

Are far reaching consequences of such breadth.

For those who served, freedom was their call.

So many in our military gave their all.

 

And this day each year we set aside

To honor the veterans who have lived and died.

So many on the battlefield met their fate.

Sadly few now know, the significance of this date.

 

My heartfelt and unending gratitude to all our military personnel, male and female, who have served our country and for those they left behind.  I thank both the veteran and their families for your sacrifice.

 

Thank You God for a country fashioned with You in mind.

Thank You for the privilege of living in the United States.

Thank You God for Your Ten Commandments

 

GOD BLESS YOU ON THIS DAY OF REMEMBRANCE!

Sunday Sabbath May 28 2017  A DAY FULL OF SURPRISES

The best laid plans of mice and men sometime go astray.  We worked diligently this week preparing our yard for spring.  We planned to invite impromptu guests over to join us for a “backyard, bring your own fast food entree afternoon” so we could acquaint ourselves with those whom we did not know.  Usually we have as many as we can facilitate.  We thought there might be those who had no plans on a Memorial Day Sunday and might enjoy the company of others.  None of those we asked were able to attend.

We even made our bed this morning just in case someone walked down the hallway to use the restroom.  We only put the spread on our bed about three or four times a year on very special occasions.  Usually we just shut the door.  I must admit it does look quite fine when the 32 year old comforter and pillows are displayed.  It makes the room look like a million bucks.  On second thought perhaps just a half million bucks.

Little did I know that all the primping and work we did in our yard was indeed going to have the chance to be appreciated after all.  Our neighbor came over and introduced us to her relatives that were interested in viewing our home per chance we might sell it to them.  I was especially delighted because then I was vindicated for the extra time it took to make up the bed so it looked company ready!  And believe me, making that bed was a last minute decision made this morning.  So, I was spared the embarrassment of tangled sheets and blankets sliding to the floor.

We happily showed them the house and let them know that, Dave and I were not interested in selling immediately.  But isn’t it nice how things work out when we follow our gut instincts because sometimes it pays off.

As the neighbor’s relatives were leaving we watched four young gangling boys (around 15 years of age) come barreling down our hill straight toward our driveway entrance ON TODDLER TOYS!  One was a painted pony, one a small bike and the other two modes of transportation were little riding toys for a two year old.  Their bodies were quite over-sized for the contraptions.  But boy, it sure looked like a lot of fun, but not for a mother to see!  Those boys flew down the hill at break-neck speed, using the rubber soles of their shoes against asphalt to slow down.  It was enough to turn the rest of my hair gray.  This was repeated several times. 

While they were carting their mobile units back up the hill I started following them.  They started walking faster to get away from me.  I knew I would lose them in a few moments if I didn’t say something.  I called out to their retreating backs and told them I wasn’t there to yell at them but just wanted to tell them a story. They all turned their shirtless bodies toward me and came back to listen. 

I told them about the time when I was eight years old and was riding a foot-steered go-cart down a high hill.  A car came head on around the curve and it frightened me.  I steered off into the gravel dragging my left knee behind me.  The go-cart belonged to a boy who insisted I drag it back up the hill.  I was in pain, bleeding, and crying (and scared).  Once I arrived back at my upstairs apartment I tried to sneak into the little apartment so I wouldn’t awaken my mom from her afternoon nap with my baby sister.  I could barely make it to the bathroom as I was bent over holding my throbbing knee.  I had the sense to get a washrag and wash my knee.  The blood was so thick I couldn’t see the injury and I at least wanted to see the scratches and scuffs.  When I looked at it after I washed the blood away I began screaming blood curdling screams, over and over.  I heard my mom yell, “THE HOUSE BETTER BE ON FIRE” as she came running!  I suppose she thought if I was screaming like the house was on fire then it better be for an important reason.  The look on her face after she washed the blood away, and saw my knee cap shining at her in all its whiteness, was a look that made me want to scream louder.  It was not a pretty sight and it was only then that I realized I had left a trail of blood in my wake and on the bathroom floor. 

Mama got me calmed down, cleaned the wound the best she could, and put me to bed.  When my father came home from his shift at work (3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. shift) I was still awake.  Mama brought him into the bedroom to show him my wound.  The bleeding was under control.  To this day I remember asking him, “Why is my heart beating in my knee?”  I don’t remember the answer.  I heard daddy tell mama that he guessed she should take me to the doctor the next day.  That event happened the first week of summer vacation.

I told the boys this story and suggested that they might want to give some thought as to what possibilities could happen should they take a spill.  I told them I couldn’t tell them what to do or not do but they needed to think about the consequences they might face should they have a bad or debilitating injury.  I suggested they might want to weigh risks before embarking on certain endeavors.  I told them if they were my sons I would probably suggest they not do what they were doing.  Conversation ensued; they were caught off guard by my story and one thing led to the next.  Soon they were in my back yard and we had a delightful (at least I did) time talking about things in the neighborhood like backyard pools, summer fun, working, and getting their driver’s licenses, which would be happening in 6 months.  Not a comforting thought to an old lady!

We ended up on a trek through the paths in our woods and then two of the boys did a choreographed back-flip simultaneously once we returned to the neighbor’s meadow.  And of course we turned it into a photo-op!  I took a few pictures of them with their cameras. They were all in tip top form for boys their age and I could tell by their preening that it was important to them.  It was such a delight to be surrounded by such youth and vigor even if they were a bit lacking in some areas of commons sense. 

It was soon time to go.  They did one more downward half hill stint on their respective toys and I caught it all on video.  Oh well, so much for my suggestions!

 

YOUNG LIFE IS A GIFT

Kathleen Martens

May 28, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

Yesteryear and today

Jumbled as one,

Memories of past

Both serious and fun.

 

A day of surprises!

It was quite a delight

To tell a short story

That just might…

 

Hit the mark

Of one so young

So serious consequence

Could be left unsung.

 

Young life is a gift

For only a while,

Hopefully to survive

To share future smiles.

 

Perhaps those four young men will remember the story I told them today and make wiser decisions in the future that might have lasting effects on their lives: and then again, perhaps not.  But at least I’ll sleep better tonight knowing I have made four potential friends instead of four potential enemies.  I was blessed and I believe Dave and I met a nice young man in the neighborhood who is willing to be hired by us for manual labor!  We’ve already pegged a few jobs for him.  Isn’t God good for orchestrating a day of surprises which turn out for our good!  

Back to my knee; it was a long recovery because of the delay of my medical treatment.  After medical treatment and packing (the knee could not be closed and had to heal from the inside out) it took six months to heal.  It was not my best summer but I did get a lot of reading done.

Unfortunately my time is too short to tell about the rest of the stories that happened today.  Like I said, it was a day full of surprises!

 

Thank You God for such an awesome day.

Thank You God that that all four boys went home intact.

 

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU!

 

 

Saturday May 27 2017  OH WHAT A BEAUTIFUL DAY

 

“Oh what a beautiful morning

Oh what a beautiful day!”

Famous lines from a song: and sometimes those two lines say it all!

 

OH WHAT A BEAUTIFUL MORNING

Kathleen Martens

May 27, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

A sunny morn from break of day

What a way to start and play.

Play for one may be work for another

Working for me is my druthers.

 

Puffy white clouds lingering by

It seems as if I could touch the sky.

Flowers blooming in regal stance,

Background of trees that seem to dance.

 

A doe loping across the expanse of lawn,

Though I did not see a buck or fawn.

In the garden a woodpecker breakfasted alone

And soon a hummingbird felt right at home.

 

A cardinal’s dive bomb was quite a fright,

I wasn’t expecting it in broad daylight.

And little squirrels skittering in constant motion

Flicking their tails with such commotion.

 

Detail of notes could not be distinguished

Amongst a myriad of bird-songs not extinguished.

Cacophony or harmony, both a musical treasure,

One from which I derive much pleasure.

 

How awesome has been this beautiful day

Watching the animals having fun at play!

I feel such a kinship with nature’s gracious gifts

And while outdoors my heart smiles and lifts.

 

And all I describe above is true to this beautiful Saturday. 

 

Thank You God for the awesome sunshine today.

Thank You for all the rain that provided nutrients for our yard.

Thank You for the color green.

Thank You for the veterans who have served in our country to provide the freedom I have experienced today.

 

GOD BLESS YOU ON THIS BEAUTIFUL DAY.

Friday May 26 2017  WE BEAT THE RAIN!

It was a beautiful, sun-filled morning when I entered the gym at 8:00 a.m.  Two hours later the sky was heavy with low clouds.  Our spring has been one long wet spell.  My bedding plants were purchased two weeks ago and were now root-bound.  Dave has not had a chance to prepare the gardens due to the drenched soil and heavy mud. Finally we had a 24 hour period of time with no rain and it was now our window of opportunity.  And we jumped on it!  Dave worked up the bedding soil, by adding manure, insect killer, slow release fertilizers and mulch.  He also weeded and prepared the tomato and herbal gardens.  He worked up the soil and I came along behind him and planted.

When I finished planting I meandered through the woods. The forest seemed mystical and subdued.  The overcast light created an atmosphere of mystery and intrigue.  A quiet hush lingered with an air of pensiveness.  I decided not to stay too long.  It reminded me of the woods that Little Red Riding Hood took to go to her grandmother’s house.

I continued along the path which led to my neighbor’s back yard.  In my neighbor’s backyard I had an enchanting encounter with a young girl who is the daughter of a friend.  I have not seen her for several years and barely recognized her.  She is now 14 years old and it’s unbelievable how quickly a little girl becomes a beautiful young lady.  Her spirit emanated a sweet loveliness.   Our chance encounter did my heart good.  When the rain began to fall I continued my journey home.  The rain was a soft gentle rain that caused my fern gardens to dance as if choreographed by a hushed, magical breath.

It was a beautiful and rewarding morning.  As I approached my yard my heart smiled as I looked at the zinnias I had just planted which would begin blooming in a couple of weeks.  And when I feasted my eyes on the brilliant colors of the blooming snapdragons it was as if I could hear them sing.  It felt so special to once again work in the garden.  It’s as if nature enjoys creating gifts for those who tend her.

 

LIKE THE CARESS OF A FRIEND

Kathleen Martens

May 26, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

The light of dawn

With sunshine’s power

Greets the day

In its magical bower.

 

And springtime clouds

Shroud the earth,

Causing fanciful light

To be in dearth.

 

But oh the mystery

Of a forest glen,

Its somber presence…

Like the caress of a friend.

 

Thank You God for today’s window of opportunity to work in the garden.

Thank You Lord for the beautiful colors You have created.

 

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU!

REMEMBER TO TAKE TIME TO SEE WHAT GOD HAS ON DISPLAY ON THIS AWESOME SPRING DAY.

 

Thursday May 25 2017 ONE HOUR AND COUNTING

 

FEW WORDS TO SAY

Kathleen Martens

May 25, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

Fewer words that I say

Will make this a better day.

Much to do, so little time,

Under the gun to compose my rhyme.

 

I long to write, truly I do,

But today I must not pursue.

On stay-cation, but in and out,

Work still calls without a doubt.

 

And so I focus on what’s at hand,

What I’ve promised my hours command.

Inching closer to the end,

Though often, time is not my friend.

 

No blog tonight, my deadline looms,

Have a wonderful day as it zooms!

Be ever so thankful that today

I have so few words to say!

 

Today several unexpected situations came up for which I had not been scheduled.  I have goals to reach each day in order to finish the albums on time.  You may wonder what the rush is.  We hope to hand deliver the finished books to my sister and we are racing to leave early enough in the year in order to bypass the winter storms of Canada.  We are not driving directly to California.  If I work diligently each day I should be able to beat the north’s early winter.  Look for shorter blogs the next few months.

The timer is set and I have limited myself to one hour from start to finish.  It usually takes me as much time to publish a blog as it does to write it.  That includes proofing, then proofing again, making changes, copying, printing and filing.

Thank You God for friends who sometime come along unexpectedly.

Thank You for the strength you give me each day.

Thank You for a wonderful bed in which to sleep.

And thank You Lord that I wake up early each morning without an alarm.  I LOVE IT!  AND I LOVE YOU MORE!

 

GOD BLESS YOU!

Wednesday May 24 2017  FOR THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN BELONGS TO SUCH AS THESE

How is it possible for our thoughts to go back in time and truly remember what it was like to be inside the mind of a five year old child?  When I am around our five year old grandson it is truly amazing to have a glimpse inside their private little world of thought.  Most five year olds still have that sense of innocence that permeates as they verbalize what flits through their mind.  And you never know what might come of out of their mouths.

I used to chuckle at all the things our older grandson would say when he was three, four, or five years old.  And of course I thought him quite brilliant (and still do at his ripe old age of nine).  The nine year old mind is a bit more organized and usually there is rhyme and reason as to what he says.  I don’t think the five year old thought processes have yet progressed to follow the protocol of a conversation (at least for our five year old grandson).  He actually reminds me of myself at that age.  I was an incessant talker and if I didn’t know what the topic of the conversation was I could certainly add a bit to it by coming up with a new topic.

But there is one thing I knew I loved to talk about when I was five years old and that was Jesus.  Five was an important age because that was when my Sunday school teacher gave me my first Bible  (a little New Testament).   And oh how I loved my Bible!  I could not go to church without it though I could not yet read it.  Sunday school was very important to me and Vacation Bible School was like a bit of heaven.  By the time I was seven years old I could walk to all the local churches in our little town of 3,000 people and I attended every VBS I could during the summer months, usually two, and on a good year, perhaps three.  

Back to my grandsons, because of them I have a bit clearer memory of what it was like for me when I was their age.  I loved my Sunday school teacher because she gave me my Bible, and secondly because she taught me about Jesus.  I so loved Jesus with total childlike faith.  There were no barriers.  Jesus was so very real to me.  He became my friend and I would talk to him as I went to sleep each night.

Last night my daughter-in-law texted a quote Xander said earlier in the day.  He gave me the highest compliment I have ever received. 

Over the years I have read stories to the boys and many of them were, and still are, Bible stories and Bible scriptures.  We talk about the stories, look at the pictures, and I answer questions and explain the reality of God’s Word in a language geared to their age level. 

From a very early age Xander has taken an interest in the stories from the Bible.  When asked to choose whatever story he wanted me to read he goes to his Bible and asks for a story from his illustrated children’s Bible.  Our conversations are often about what stories are true and what stories are make-believe.  Jesus is a big topic of our conversations.  Zach is now old enough to read and has found an exciting life through the pages of fiction written to capture the minds of nine year olds.  He’ll listen to a couple of stories I read and then delves into books he brings from home.  It makes me realize what a short window of time we have with the young minds of today; and how very important it is to instill the love and knowledge of the Lord into young hearts. 

As a parent we have the responsibility to teach our children in the way of the Lord: it is our legacy to our grandchildren.  Last evening I had a glimpse into the legacy I hope to leave behind for future generations. 

Last evening Amy and I texted off and on over a period of time. I read one last text before closing up shop for the night.  She explained a bit about their day and shared a conversation that had taken place when she took Xander to the dentist earlier in the day.  Here is her text quote:

“Took the kiddos to the dentist today and Xander told the hygienist all about his field trip to Sassy Farm today, how he saw cows ‘hugging’ each other, had ice cream, etc.  Then he goes on to tell this nice lady, “My grandma knows a lot about Jesus.”  We both cracked up.  It was the sweetest thing”.

My eyes watered as I read those words.  It gave me a little insight into what, and about whom, he is thinking.  He has already given his heart to the Lord but it makes my heart smile to know that the things we talk about when he visits has made an impression on him.  Like I said before, it was the best compliment I have ever received.

 

Matthew 19:13-15

¹³ Then people brought little children to Jesus for Him to place His hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked them.

¹⁴ Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” ¹⁵ When He had placed His hands on them, He went on from there.

 

Matthew 18:2-5

At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”

He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. ³ And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. ⁴ Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. ⁵ And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.

 

Luke 19:21

²¹ At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this is what you were pleased to do.

 

YOU NEED NOT BE OLD OR WISE

Kathleen Martens

May 24, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

 

Oh but for the faith

Of a precious little child

Accepting with sincerity

Into a heart pure and mild.

 

Receiving in humble thought

And understanding without years.

Accepting Jesus into their heart

Without guile; without fear.

 

The sound of Jesus whispering

Into the hearts of little ones

Are the mysteries of the heavens

Revealed by God’s true Son.

 

And it pleases the Father

To hide from the learned and wise,

For the lowly position of the child

Is a reason Jesus died.

 

Simply to believe and receive

That which heaven pours forth.

It was also given for the young

Who have value and great worth.

 

He calls the little children, “Come”

That you may enter into My gates.

You need not be old or wise

Before you know your fate.

 

 

Thank You God for little boys.

Thank You God for the sincerity of child-like faith.

Thank You Father that it pleases you to reveal Yourself to little children.

 

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU!

Tuesday May 23 2017  THAT IS WHO I WANT YOU TO LOVE

People fascinate me.  No matter what the circumstances, or where I am, I so enjoy watching people.  There are so many faces, shapes, forms, colors, expressions, and voices, and they all intrigue me.  Each one is unique and each one made in the image of God.  I’ve always felt that if it were up to me I would like to talk to each and every person that I pass by.  But, with so many hundreds of people I come in contact with I know that is impossible.  I must admit certain people grab my interest to the extent that I know I must make some sort of excuse to meet them.  And for me that is easy. 

Something happened this past Sunday morning at church that opened my eyes to a new truth which was revealed to me.  I have attended our church fellowship for 30 years.  I’ve met many people there and each Sunday I speak to those I don’t recognize and introduce myself and ask about them.  It is surprising how many people are willing to share their life with a total stranger.  I have come to believe that people are always looking for new fellowship with others.

As I walked into the foyer from the hallway, I could not help but see an older woman sitting alone in a wheel chair with a somber look on her face.  I’ve noticed this woman for years, walked right past her week after week.  I’ve never said hello, never introduced myself, and never gave her the attention I have given to so many others.  The look on her face always seemed to be one that said “stay away” (or so I thought).  Often I have a smile on my face and when our eyes met briefly my smile was still in place from my previous encounter.  For just a split second, I perceived the beginning of a smile on this lady’s face and then, just as quickly, it was extinguished as she lowered her gaze.  I walked by her without saying a word and I felt a halting come over me as if I was physically being tugged backwards.  I believe it was the Holy Spirit beckoning me to turn around, smile at the old woman in the wheel chair, and ask her if I could give her a hug. 

Now, I like to hug people, and each Sunday I try to hug all the widowed friends I have because I know they do not receive many hugs during the week.  From my point of view everyone needs to be hugged.  Hesitantly, I turned around, smiled at the lady in the wheelchair and introduced myself.  I asked her if I could give her a hug, telling her I thought everyone needs to be hugged.  Her face lit up with the biggest smile.  I bent down to her level, wrapped my arms around her shoulders and gave her a lengthy hug.  As I held her close she whispered in my ear, “There is a study that determines every person needs to be hugged at least eight times a day to stay healthy.”  When I stepped back she smiled up at me and her face lit up!  My heart was broken in her presence.  I told her I would like to ask for her forgiveness and apologize for walking by her week after week and never having stopped to talk to her before.  She said she always felt inhibited to approach me and she said she needed to apologize for never smiling at me before.  It was an eye opener to me.  We had an extended conversation and I know that this lady will be more than just on my “hug-list” after this.  After all these years I now know her name; it is Patricia.  Her name means “Noble”.  I think that is exactly how God sees her!

I have always thought I was open toward others as well as easily approachable.  I asked myself did I ignore her because she was in a wheel chair, or because she was old, or because she never smiled at me, or…or…or…?  God is opening my eyes that I might see that which is right before me.  I’ve done a lot of soul searching about this incident since Sunday and pray that I will be attuned to those who God brings to me, rather than just those who “look” interesting.  On occasion throughout my life God has pointed out a specific person.  Each time that has happened I have also heard His gentle voice whisper to me:  “THAT IS WHO I WANT YOU TO LOVE”.  And I have been blessed this week to know that I can still recognize God’s whisper.

 

THAT IS WHO I WANT YOU TO LOVE

Kathleen Martens

May 23, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

At times there are those

Our eyes caress

And others we look past

Whom we think a mess.

 

But who are we

To judge another

By outward appearance

Of our sisters and brothers?

 

We are each one

Created in God’s image

To live in harmony,

Not prey or scrimmage.

 

When we see fellow man

We should view all equal.

Today is lived but once

And there is no sequel.

 

So reach out

An extended hand.

Assist those hurting

And help them stand.

 

Give from your heart,

Smiles are free.

A hug offers health

Without a fee.

 

Let the joy of the Lord

Spring forth in wonder;

As relationships begin

No need to asunder.

 

View each person

As the creation of God

And when you talk to strangers

You’ll not find it odd.

 

Stay attuned and listen

To God above

When He says, “That is who 

I want you to love.”

 

Thank You God for opening my eyes and teaching me to see through Your eyes.

Thank You God for opening my heart and filling my heart with more of You.

Thank You God for the smile You place upon my face.

Thank You God for being who You are.

Thank You too for Your goodness!

 

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU!

 

 

Monday May 22, 2017  PRECIOUS HOURS I MUST COMMAND

Always refresh your computer before you read one of my blogs.  I sometimes write in the morning and later realize there is a mistake in my blog (usually it is the day or date), and even though I correct it immediately, if my blog has already been published the mistake is not removed until each reader refreshes their computer by clicking on the little refresh button.  It looks like an open circle with an arrow-head tip on one end of the circle.

I am so sorry that some of you may have read the original publication yesterday, thus my mistake was blatantly apparent.  And I’ve been known to make the same mistake two days in a row.  Even worse than that is when no one alerts me to correct it.  I know it is not the responsibility of my readers to enlighten me of my errors or proof read my blogs but I certainly appreciate it when I am notified!  Simply remember to hit your refresh button per chance it has already been corrected.

Fortunately I do not have an open forum on my blog.  I purposely set up the blog that way so I wouldn’t have my “dirty laundry” aired.  I sometimes read other blog’s open forum comments and my eyebrows rise all the way up to my hairline.  

This will be a week of short blogs due to MY PROJECT that looms over me (the family heirloom album).  I’m down to the wire with a timeline.  I have kept this week clear of all appointments (except gym time) and plan a wholehearted endeavor to get as much accomplished this week as possible.  I have a lot of commitments looming in the next two months but plan to schedule as many weeks as possible appointment free.  I don’t even go grocery shopping on my appointment free week.  I shop the week before and stock up.  Having two refrigerators helps out in that area.  And we pretty much eat soups from the freezer and salads from our delivered garden box of veggies and greens that arrives on Thursdays.  And I usually have lots of frozen chicken cubes in the freezer!  And of course there are always boiled eggs.  Believe me, we don’t starve.  Actually it is quite nice to have a reason not to cook for a spell.  That will come upon us all too soon when summer’s bounty begins ripening.

 

PRECIOUS HOURS I MUST COMMAND

Kathleen Martens

May 22, 2017

www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

Another week staying at home,

Forgetting there are places to roam.

Zeroing in on what must be done,

Fortunately for me it is quite fun.

 

Pages and pages of words to write,

Faces of the past are my plight.

Both young and old without fame,

Each important, each have a name.

 

And so my friends I bid you adieu,

My moments here must be few.

If I am to finish the task at hand

Precious hours I must command.

 

Thank You God for the hours in this day.

Thank You for the delicious lunch that awaits me in the fridge.

Thank You for the eyes of others that catch my mistakes.

 

GOD BLESS YOU!

Sunday Sabbath May 21 2017   EVEN IF NO ONE READS WHAT I WRITE

 

EVEN IF NO ONE READS WHAT I WRITE

Kathleen Martens

May 21, 2017

www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

There is a little story I must tell

It is about me and I know it well.

I write so many words each and every day

And the reason is I have a lot to say.

 

But some days I don’t type words quite right

And then my dilemma becomes quite a plight.

And though it be not the end of the world

Sometimes in my direction other’s words are furled.

 

I do declare I’m not perfect fare,

With good intention I write with care.

And sometimes I mix-up some of my dates,

Either numbers or days may be their fate.

 

And other times I might not make sense

And to some readers I straddle the fence.

It is not my intent to cause any stress

When my words are improperly addressed.

 

So I beg your pardon if logic is lost,

Or when my dates seem ever so glossed.

Or perhaps with my subject you don’t agree.

It’s even okay when your words attack me.

 

I take it not personal; I’ve grown a thick hide.

My blog is fun for me and I’m along for the ride.

I write for enjoyment and from passion within,

I send what I write to both kith and kin.

 

My words written with pleasure, for other’s delight,

Never with intent to harm or to cause fright.

Some topics not understood by one and all,

And to some on deaf ears fall.

 

Should you have grievance I’m willing to listen.

I read your remarks with great attention.

Thanks for your comments, I take them to heart

And each day’s blog is a brand new start.

 

Experiential knowledge is what one knows best.

We each live life with our own spicey zest!

Though perfect, I definitely am not,

To my readers I say, I love you a lot.

 

But as I’ve said before I write from my view,

And each of us walks in different shoes.

You may not understand why or what I say,

Perhaps for another it will make their day.

 

Most likely your topic will appear on queue

Then perhaps for others it will be skewed.

But even if no one reads what I write,

I’d still go on writing with all my might.

 

THANK YOU GOD FOR THIS RAINY SUNDAY SABBATH.

 

I HOPE YOU HAVE A WONDERFUL SUNDAY SABBATH.

 

GOD BLESS YOU!

P.S.  Thanks to all of my readers who contact me through my web page.  I appreciate all comments and am especially grateful when errors are brought to my attention, especially when I misspell a word or write in an incorrect date in my heading.  I always try to go back and correct them.  I enjoy your comments.

 

Saturday May 20 2017  GOD’S PROPHETIC PLAN FOR THE DAYS OF MAN

Two ideas came together this morning as I sat here wondering about what to write.  I was thinking about an article I read the other day about a new book that is now available.  I have not read it.  I did read an article about the book written by Heidi Stevens, Contact Reporter for a Chicago newspaper. I do hope to have an opportunity to read the book.  I am on the waiting list at the library.

The book is titled:

 

THE VANISHING AMERICAN ADULT

Our Coming of Age Crises

“How to rebuild Culture of Self-Reliance”

By Ben Sasse

 

Reading Heidi Stevens’ article was quite enlightening.  I thought you might enjoy her commentary so I have included the web address if you would like to read it for yourself.  Though it does not appear that she agrees with Sasse’s political persuasion she gave a very interesting and enlightened view of her insight from an angle I did not expect her to voice. 

 

Those of you who read my blog know that this is not a political blog and I don’t plan that it becomes so.  I am sending this article due to the fact that I see truth in both sides of the spectrum in this matter and thought it might be interesting for you to see the balancing of different observations on such an interesting topic. Please click the web address below if you are interested in reading the report from Heidi Stevens.

 

https://www.google.com/amp/www.chicagotribune.com/lifestyles/stevens/ct-friday-balancing-ben-sasse-book-20170519-column,amp.html

 

The second quote I am including is one I read a few moments ago from today’s email.  My friend Marilyn sends out a THOUGHT FOR TODAY each morning.  I love reading them as they usually prick my mind with new insights and knowledge.  This one was appropriate in relationship to the thread of my thoughts as I was currently organizing the above blog.

 

Here is Marilyn’s THOUGHT FOR TODAY:

 

 

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

“I fear the day that technology will surpass our human interaction. 

The world will have a generation of idiots” Albert Einstein

 

Now remember it is not a quote from me or Marilyn but rather a look into the future from Albert Einstein’s intelligence and perspective.  I have always been amazed at how intelligent Mr. Einstein was but I didn’t realize he could predict the future.  Perhaps that was another one of his talents that we didn’t know about.

 

As you watch the younger generations growing up, ask yourself this question: has Mr. Einstein’s fear already come to pass?

 

AND IT IS WRITTEN…

Kathleen Martens

May 20, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

There is only One

The future knows,

He’s not on earth

Here below.

 

And it is written

In His Word.

By any chance

Have you heard?

 

The map of time

In plain sight

Not allowed in school

To our nation’s plight.

 

But future history

Is already told

In the ancient manuscript’s

Holy Books of old.

 

If we but study

God’s prophetic plan

We’d understand what’s ahead

For the days of man.

 

I am studying the book of Daniel in the Old Testament and it is quite enlightening.  I am at a time in my life where I am now beginning to understand more clearly the prophecies of the Old Testament and how they relate to what is happening in our current world.  The more I study the more I comprehend.  And it all makes sense.  I can see the writing on the wall.

 

Thank You God that You know the beginning and the end.

Thank You God that You are with me regardless of where I am or what I am doing.

Thank You god that You designed a plan that I should not perish but have everlasting life.

 

HAVE A GREAT DAY!

GOD BLESS YOU!

Thursday May 18 2017  MY MOTHER’S DAY GIFT

A minute ago I opened a friend’s email and read her THOUGHT FOR THE DAY.  I love the truth of it and have included it below:

“THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

He who has little, and is happy,

Is richer than he who has much, and wants more.

Wings of Silver”

 

I am happy and I hope you are too.  I long ago found out that it is not what I have, how much I have, or how expensive what I have is, that makes me happy.  So, I looked up the word happy to see what synonyms would pop up.  Here they are: “content, contented, pleased, glad, joyful, cheerful, in high spirits, and blissful”.

 

WHAT MAKES ME HAPPY?

Kathleen Martens

May 18, 2017

www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

What is it

That makes me content?

Is it living in opulence

Or how much I’ve spent?

 

Am I contented

With what I own?

Or must I have a palace

And rule from a throne?

 

How am I pleased

May be the question.

Must I have my own way

Or can I follow directions?

 

What makes me glad

And puts a smile on my face?

Can I be joyful

Wherever I’m placed?

 

And what determines

My cheerful attitude?

Must I be entertained

Or can I be happy in platitude?

 

When I’m in high spirits

Is it because I have much?

Or can I be happy

When I don’t have such?

 

To be happy is blissful.

It is the sister of joy.

It comes from within

Without coercing or ploy

 

So he who has little

And still happiness scores

Is more content

Than the one who always wants more.

 

Dave is often in a quandary when picking out gifts for me.  I am always happy with whatever he gives me.  I may not ever use it, wear it, or may even take it back, but I always delight in the fact that he remembers certain occasions and events.  Well, Mother’s Day is no exception to the rule.  We live frugally, don’t like to waste money, but yet want to buy or make something the other will enjoy.  This year he hit it right on the head!  I received the best gift ever!  First of all it never needs dusting, will not clutter an area for long, it didn’t put us into debt, and it was purchased with much foresight and intent because Dave knew I would absolutely be delighted with the gift (and besides, he can share it with me).

 

WHAT IS THE GIFT?

Kathleen Martens

May 18, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

What gift would be

A certainty

To bring a smile

Each day awhile?

Rest assured

My heart cured,

Easy fix for love to mix.

Laugh a lot

On the spot

Now you’ll know… when you look below!

 

Here is the clue to find out what Dave gave me.  MY HEART SMILES AT HIS CREATIVITY AND I AM THOROUGHLY ENJOYING WHAT HE GAVE ME!  Though it will only last a few days it is the best gift ever!  In Wisconsin it is the first of the season which makes it all the more appreciated.

Look at the poem directly above and use in sequence the first letter of each line and it will spell out my gift. Now you know why it is such a dorky poem; though it was fun to write.

 

Thank You God for delicacies from the garden.

Thank You God for taste buds.

Thank You God for Your joy that floods my heart!

And thank You God that You always provide what we need.

 

GOD BLESS YOU!  HAVE A GREAT DAY FILLED WITH HAPPINESS AND JOY!

 

 

Wednesday May 17 2017  SPRING’S GLORY

 

SPRING’S GLORY

Kathleen Martens

May 17, 2017

www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

Even as I sit

And bask in spring’s glory

I cannot see the miracle of growth,

But each morning tells its story.

 

Tiny leaves delicately bud

As if magic happens overnight,

And though I view and concentrate

Growth not detected by my eyesight.

 

And though it seems forever

Before winter takes its leave,

Spring erupts in fragile lace

And once again life’s been freed.

 

And I view the daily change

When each new season is born,

But it seems spring does the best!

Because new life it does adorn!

 

This morning, as I was sitting in my new library’s “Contemplation Corner” in front of the large window, the above poem simply penned itself onto the open page of my journal.  Of course it used my hand as a conduit.  And there it was. 

No matter how hard I try I cannot see a leaf grow, but each morning the leaves are noticeably larger.  I so enjoy viewing time-lapsed photography as it captures the movement of plants toward light and presents in slow motion the miracle of new growth.

 

NATURE’S EVER-CHANGING ATTITUDE

Kathleen Martens

May 17, 2017

www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

An overcast day

In muted green

Then sounds of thunder

And rain was seen.

 

Moments later

The sparkle of sun

Bathed the leaves

And the rain was done.

 

Such a fragrance

Emanating from wet sod

Delivered by the breeze

Seemed like the breath of God.

 

And the above short poem simply showed up right now and asked to be included.  So there you have it; twins, born a few moments apart.  Both were painless births.

 

Thank You God for the miracle of growth.

Thank You God for spring’s gentle rain.

I thank You Lord for each poem you allow me to see.

 

GOD BLESS YOU!

HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY!

Tuesday May 16 2017  LOTS AND LOTS OF BOOKS

Approximately one quarter of our former library floor is covered in books, spines facing up.  And those are the books I hope to give away.  Many of them are books written about spiritual topics by well know Christian authors.  I’ve not read them all but I have read quite a few of them.  The ones I’ve read are excellent books, full of truth.

Today I went to the Senior Center in Fitchburg and asked if they take book donations.  They do take some but are discriminate as to what kind of books.  I asked them if they would take books about religious topics written by Christian authors.  “Oh no, we wouldn’t accept those type of books”, was the reply I received.  I was curious so I asked, “Why?”  A conversation ensued and it was made clear that religious books were not the kind they were looking for.  What a shame I thought.  It grieves me to see all the deterrents our society have in place toward those who believe in God.  Hmm…maybe I’ll just go into the library area where there are shelves of used books for sale and slip a few of my titles amongst the ones on the shelves.

Before I donate the books I plan to have an open house in my new library.  I will send invitations to friends who will be invited to come and choose books from my give away pile.  Then I may drive around Madison and drop some off at the free libraries built in the shape of little houses mounted on a pole.  The fronts are made of see through Plexiglas and there are little hinged door that opens so books can be exchanged.  Usually they are on the edge of neighborhood properties.  I think that some people actually build a little Free Library in their yard in order to share their books with the public free of charge.  We have one close to our church which I stop at occasionally.  I must confess that at times I have taken a book or two out of the little Library house so I could discard them because I knew they were trashy or demonic.  Perhaps I’m a bit discriminatory also.  

Whatever books I have left over will be donated to St. Vinneys.

 

THE TREASURE OF A BOOK

Kathleen Martens

May 16, 2017

www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

We live in a time

With lots of books.

Yet I fear in the future

They’ll be forsook.

 

I choose carefully

What I read.

What I place in my heart

My mouth will heed.

 

Whatever you read

Let it be your goal

That it be nourishing

To heart and soul.

 

So many writers’

Books to choose.

Since time is valuable

Your self don’t lose.

 

Read for growth

And read for pleasure,

Time spent reading

Such an awesome treasure!

 

Cherish the books

That you own.

When you no longer need them

Pass them on.

 

But always keep

Your favorite few

Regardless if old

Or brand spanking new!

 

Someday in the future

Books may not consist

Of paper and ink,

But electronically exist.

 

Oh how sad it will be

When books are no more.

Who then will know

The fables of yore?

 

Thank You God for the alphabet.

Thank You for my hands that can hold a book.

Thank You for my eyes that can read a book.

Thank You for paper and ink.

Thank You for creative minds.

And most of all Lord thank You for the preservation of Your written Word, THE HOLY BIBLE.

 

GOD BLESS YOU!

 

TAKE TIME TO READ EVERY SINGLE DAY!

Monday May 15 2017  AND SWOOSH GOES THE DAY!

 

SUCH JOY IT IS TO VISIT WITH A FRIEND

Kathleen Martens

May 15, 2017

www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

Oh if I could

Fulfill my notion,

If there was a way

I’d live life in slow motion.

 

So much happens

All too fast,

And super-great moments

Just don’t seem to last.

 

So much takes place

In the course of one day,

Opportunities present

In both work and play.

 

But the clock won’t stop

And my day flies by,

And as evening approaches

I heave a big sigh.

 

Such joy it is

To visit with a friend

But alas the hours

Always end.

 

So I cherish this time

As a delicate keepsake,

Graceful and beautiful

As a perfect snowflake.

 

A day well spent

In the bosom of my friend,

Due to salvation’s gift

Friendships need not end.

 

And I thank God

For the friends He gives.

Through their love,

They model how to live.

 

Perhaps eternity will be so long that it will feel as if I am living in slow motion.  Truthfully, I cannot even begin to imagine what eternities’ heaven will be like.  I do think about it quite often and my heart smiles, knowing that at my stage of life heaven could be right around the next corner. 

This day consisted of one mammogram, one workout session, one hour session with a personal trainer, then back home to prepare and share a leisurely lunch with a friend.  We talked and read to each other as we shared favorite excerpts from books.  My friend and I walked in Dave’s gardens and decided not to hike in the woods due to open toed shoes and bare legs.  All body parts must be covered to ward against tics.  Just as we settled in the chairs beside the fireplace we looked outside and realized that rain was falling straight down.  And that made us doubly happy that we were not in the woods. 

And now it is time to get ready for bed as I have another extremely early start tomorrow morning.  I have a 7:00 a.m. car appointment which will take one hour and then another trip to the gym.  I am not a clock watcher unless I must be on time for an event.  If my day is my own there is no such thing as a clock (unless I am cooking).  I have so thoroughly adapted to living in the moment.  And it is a place I love to live!  But, as long as I live in this earthly body all good things comes to an end, and thus it is with this lovely day.

Thank You God for friendship.

Thank You for the peace and joy that You have placed in my heart.

Thank You for the delicious food You provided this day.

Thank You for the hot water in my shower.

 

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU.  MAY YOU BE BLESSED WITH MANY GOOD FRIENDS.

 

NOTE TO READERS:  BEFORE READING THE FOLLOWING BLOG PLEASE REFRESH YOUR iPHONE OR COMPUTER.  THIS WAS PUBLISHED EARLY IN THE DAY AND SEVERAL HOURS LATER IT WAS EDITED.

Saturday May 13 2017  ALLOW YOURSELF TO FLY

 

ALLOW YOURSELF TO FLY

Kathleen Martens

May 13, 2017

www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

Spend less

Live smaller

Eat well

Grow taller.

 

Don’t collect

Live free

Be select,

Less there’ll be.

 

Live strong

Explore doing

Broadening horizon

Is like refueling.

 

Do not primp

Do not worry

Live each moment

Without hurry.

 

Be thoughtful

And be kind.

Such a breed

Hard to find.

 

Be compassionate

As well as giving

To enhance

The life you’re living.

 

Don’t be stingy

Give from heart.

Your gift,

Another’s start.

 

Speak true

Tell no lies

Then your memory

Will not belie.

 

Be humble

In God’s presence

And His countenance

Will be your essence.

 

We decide

Our attitude

Choose carefully  

And light your fuse.

 

Live life

With great passion

Live in love

With great fashion.

 

Aim high

To reach the sky

Then allow

Yourself to fly!

 

The above poem was inspired when the first stanza popped into my head a couple of moments ago.  I was thinking about all the things Dave and I must now get rid of that we have accumulated over our lifetime together.  It is not even about “collections”, but rather the slow, gradual accumulation of boxes filled in by-gone years, memories too dear to part with, things inherited from parents, garage sale finds, craft supplies, and blankets!  And lots and lots more.  At first I thought my poem would be about sharing little jewels of wisdom which I have garnered throughout the years, but then I spied the little poem which won the Bus contest.  I read its four lines and incorporated some of the phrases and thoughts into the above poem.  Which lines?  You will not know until the big reveal which will be the day after the reception in early June.  But, now you know another way I birth a poem.  Some birthings are easy, some are labor intensive.  The birth of this poem was easy.

This past week has been wonderful.  Perhaps a little less than perfect due to the fact that even on our STAY-CATION (or is it  spelled “staycation”) Dave and I were unable to set aside enough time to play even one card game.  I suppose in a few years playing cards may be all we will be physically able to accomplish so perhaps it is good thing that we have the opportunity to live as actively as we can during this stage of our lives.  I have no regrets as to how busy we were this past week.  My least favorite thing to do is rest or watch TV, so actually I had a great week of “doing” without experiencing any pressure.  Thanks to those of you who have read and commented on this past week’s blogs.  You give me encouragement.  I am but an older woman talking about the experiences of my life that more than likely do not capture everyone’s ideas of a good read.  But, it’s my life, and it is very interesting to me.  I suppose it is because I enjoy people and I enjoy living!

We are off to attend the party of our 90 year old friend.  I think celebrating 90 years of life is an awesome reason to get together and have a good time (even on our last STAY-CATION day)!

Thank You God for all the joy You sprinkle on me throughout my day!

 

GOD BLESS YOU THIS DAY!

P.S.  I did watch one movie this week and I watched it guilt-free!

One last P.S. 

A friend told me that she found it very interesting that Dave and I were taking a STAY-CATION.  She found it amusing that we needed a VACATION from retirement.

 

Friday May 12 2017  CAPTURED MEMORIES

Tomorrow is our last day of STAY-CATION!  As I said in a previous blog we had an appointment which came up for today that we needed to attend.  We were up and out quite early this morning.  The appointment was in Oregon.  After the meeting we realized that the little town of Oregon (where our children attended school) was having a “city wide” garage sale.  Before I moved to Wisconsin I had never experienced a city wide garage sale.  Throughout the spring and summer months Wisconsin towns scattered around the area have exclusive garage sale weekends assigned to them.  On the designated weekend residents hold garage sales and have lots of customers.  Each sale is at the seller’s residence.  I say “city” loosely because most of the “city wide” sales should be renamed “town wide” sales.  It sure is fun and convenient to have dozens of garages sales grouped so close together.  But it sure makes for a lot of traffic.

When we bought our Wisconsin house in 1987 we had an Oregon address and zip code.  The population was about 3,000.  I think it now has upward of 6,000 people.  Dave and I no longer have an Oregon address because we live so far outside the town and are actually considered to be located in the City of Fitchburg.  Now you must realize that the City of Fitchburg (as that is its actual name reference) does not even have its own post office.  But, we have something so much better…A LIBRARY!  And oh yes, more importantly, we have our own tornado siren!  We still have the same address and zip code; just the city name is different.  We pay no city taxes to Oregon but because we are in the Oregon School district we still pay for school referendums.  Thank goodness for school busses.

Today I planned to do a photo blog depicting our STAY-CATION week but for some reason my cell phone is unable to send the photos.  I am doing every step the same as I usually do but something is blocking them from being transmitted. 

Well, I stopped writing and for the last hour I have been trying to figure out why my photos are not transmitting to my blog site.  A few uploaded to the site but I had many more I wanted to share.  Perhaps I will try again tomorrow.  Our week is almost over and it has been awesome!

 

BUT A NEW WEEK STARTS

Kathleen Martens

May 12, 2017

www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

A soul refreshed

A song in my heart,

A week has passed,

A new one starts.

 

If I could but command

Time to stand still

I’d have ever so much

More time to kill.

 

But alas,

That’s not to be.

Work is looming

Just for me! 

 

Oh so awesome

Were these days past.

But time wouldn’t stop

And the week did not last.

 

But I am refreshed

And I have a song in my heart.

Yes, the week is gone

But a new week starts!

 

Thank You God for this refreshing week at home!

Thank You for the awesome warmth today.

Thank You for all the rain we had this week which watered our gardens.

 

GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU!