Category Archives: Travel Log
Monday July 10 2017 MORNING’S JOY
Monday July 10 2017 MORNING’S JOY
It is such an enjoyment to walk into our “new space”! There are so many places to sit, so many books to peruse, and so much light coming in from the large window facing the backyard. We have double pane glass that looks out over nature’s wonderland. It is difficult for the animals to see us but if the light is just right there is a possibility to see inside, but usually we can watch without being detected.
We had a lightning storm last night and it appeared that the lights of heaven were flashing on and off all night long. Our neighbor measured 4 ½ inches of rain collected in his rain gage. This summer we have been abundantly blessed with rain. Now we desperately need heat and sunshine with intermittent rain thrown in for good measure.
As I was sitting in my old comfy chair that overlooks the back yard I couldn’t keep my mind on writing due to all the wildlife flitting by. I could go into detail but it would take too long. All I can say is that there is a whole other world that takes place right under our nose. I sat there for as long as I possibly could without a guilt trip. With all there is to do I am usually on a stringent schedule. But, the longer I sat, the less guilt I felt, and then the poetry bubbled up. I wrote four poems right in a row but I must be conservative as to what I transcribe so as not to make this blog too long.
MORNING’S JOY
Kathleen Martens
July 10, 2017
Oh what fun
To see the sun
In patches brief
As if on the run.
Dense clouds
On the prowl
Sun’s twinkling light
Erases scowl.
Nervous birds
Flit unheard
Speaking love
In silent word.
Flowers dance
On wind’s chance;
Fragmented sun
Colors enhance.
Pools of rain
Sidewalks stain
And birds bathe
Without shame.
Concealed behind
My window blind
The outside world
Enjoyed so fine.
So close, yet
Unseen by most,
I welcome nature
Which God hosts.
IN PERFECT CONNECTION
Kathleen Martens
July 10, 2017
In and out
Patches of sun
Delight the sated
Cool of earth.
Summer’s rain-forest
Foliage thick
Teams with movement;
Life and death.
Whispers of wind
Dance with Old Oak
In perfect connection
As lovers…
In passionate embrace.
MY HEART IS FULL
Kathleen Martens
July 17, 2017
My heart is full
Of words to write
I know not where
My thoughts take flight.
Influenced by so many books,
Titles alone too numerous to tell.
More words come tumbling out
I devour BOOKS’ presence as I sit a spell.
A deep delight bubbles forth
Creates a feeling oh so grand!
So many words I’ve yet to read
I pray for comprehension to understand!
I have one more poem to share, (my favorite one of the day) but it is too long to include here. Perhaps I will include it with the poem I write tomorrow. I’ll give you a clue, the title is “THE TITLES ON WHICH I FEED”.
Thank You God for all the animals that live in our woods.
Thank You that You are even concerned about the sparrows.
Thank You for the joy that Your creation gives to me.
GOD BLESS YOU!
Sunday Sabbath July 9 2017 HE WHO TRUSTS IN JESUS WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED
Sunday Sabbath July 9 2017 HE WHO TRUSTS IN JESUS WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED
HE WHO TRUSTS IN JESUS WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED
Kathleen Martens
July 9, 2017
Sitting alone in quiet reverence
My heart worships with sacred song
The gentle melody of my Savior’s love;
Sung to the One whom my heart belongs.
An attitude of quiet praise
During my day of Sabbath rest.
Oh to be more like Jesus
Is my daily quest.
Peaceful joy that floods my soul
Permeates from inside out.
The miracle of God’s astounding love
To the world I desire to shout!
Divine salvation is complete
Sealed by His Spirit we are anointed.
He who trusts in Jesus
Will not be disappointed.
The title of the above poem was the closing statement in Pastor’s sermon today. It resonated in my heart and kept repeating itself. Thus, when I sat down in my chair this afternoon perusing my sermon notes I knew it was the basis for my poem
Thank You God for Your promises found in Scripture.
Thank You for making Your Word come alive in my heart.
Thank You for placing a song in my heart.
Thank You for turning ashes into beauty.
Thank You for Your gift of the Sabbath day of rest.
GOD BLESS YOU ON THIS SABBATH SUNDAY.
Saturday July 8 2017 EACH ONE IS PERFECTLY UNIQUE
Saturday July 8 2017 EACH ONE IS PERFECTLY UNIQUE
EACH ONE IS PERFECTLY UNIQUE
Kathleen Martens
July 8 2017
Everywhere I go
I see so many faces.
All are quite different,
It matters not the places.
Behind each face
There is a life.
And a face can portray
Which life has joy or strife.
Who are the people
We pass day after day?
What condition is their soul,
And what does their face say?
Each person is so similar
In that we all have hopes, and dreams.
BUT EACH ONE IS PERFECTLY UNIQUE!
EXACTLY LIKE YOU AND ME!
The above poem was inspired by a quote I read this afternoon in the Reader’s Digest July/August 2017 issue. The quote is as follows:
“REMEMBER THAT YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY UNIQUE. JUST LIKE EVERYONE ELSE.” Margaret Meade
Thank You God for creating me to be me.
Thank You God for my mother who taught me the way of salvation.
Thank You Father that I am a daughter of a King.
Thank You for loving me.
GOD BLESS YOU ON THIS DAY AND MAY YOUR SUNDAY SABBATH BE AWESOME!
Friday July 7 2017 WHAT MONEY CANNOT BUY
Friday July 7 2017 WHAT MONEY CANNOT BUY
HIS PLAN IS FAR BETTER THAN MINE
Kathleen Martens
July 7, 2017
From seven decades of life.
Piles; and piles of piles!
If stacked to the sky
Surely count as miles.
But I’m feeling satisfaction
As my car is filled with stuff
To drop off at St. Vinney’s
Though separation was quite tough!
But then again on the other hand
It feels good to just purge.
It seems the more I shed
The greater is my urge!
I’m just so happy to shout it out
That my studio is no more!
But now a lovely library,
A place I’ll never be bored.
Rows and rows of beloved books
Just awaiting my gentle caress.
It is a two way love affair
I truly must confess.
And now if I can focus outward
Other rooms may someday be
Actually used for their calling,
And from piles, they’ll be free.
My hope is that I will live
Long enough these plans to fend,
But I may leave some piles behind
For family as well as friends.
But all is well that ends well,
All I need to do is live ‘til I die
And hope I accomplish God’s perfect will,
Because His plan is far better than mine!
What an awesome event! Dave and I worked diligently this morning on the final touches of my new library. I say “my” because Dave takes no claim to it whatsoever. I feel like Goldilocks, I have even found the chair “THAT IS JUST RIGHT”! Dave’s library is confined in his “man cave”. And he doesn’t allow me to put even one thing on his shelves!!!
Tomorrow an interior decorator friend is coming over to tweak the final touches of the new library. My friend Carolyn will add the soft touches. She will also help me choose which artwork to display, how big, and where it will be positioned. Dave wants me to create a gallery of my travels but he has given me an explicit request to have some of the prints be something other than flowers and gardens. So, in addition to flowers I will display my favorite ocean views, mountains, waterfalls, and architecture. I might even intersperse a collection of family photos. My only concern is that I do not have enough wall space to include everything I hope to hang. Carolyn’s favorite saying is “less is more”. Remember, I tend to like the “more” side of life.
It has been a long and rewarding journey taking my studio apart, getting everything patched and painted, and then collecting things from around the house to create our “LEFTOVER ROOM”. That is the name we have dubbed it. Almost everything now in the “leftover room” was garnered from other places in the house such as excess furniture, photography props from my studio days, and boxed up keepsakes, as well as the plethora of books from my previous library. We purchased three matching shelves from Craig’s List and one shelf unit and two chairs from Attic Angels’ fundraiser. Most items are keepsakes of things old and familiar. Included is an antique secretary that we purchased 44 years ago right after we married. It was old then, and now it is even older! We are using a white love seat purchased 38 years ago when our son was born. I have a table I bought many years ago that had to live in our laundry room until now. I’ve had several people offer to take it off my hands but I have always hung on to it, knowing that someday…. And that someday is now. We are also using our powder blue wing-back chair that is 38 years old. It is still in good condition, just as is the love seat. Furniture was once crafted to last; not anymore.
I have books that are older than I am; copies of well loved titles that my grandmother, mother and aunts held and read. We have keepsakes from throughout mine and David’s lives, as well as those belonging to our children. Our children are now minimalists. Someday all these things we enjoy will be dispersed, gone with the wind so to speak. And it won’t matter. Things are things. We are truly rich only when we realize that what is most important and valuable in this life on earth is that which money cannot buy; not how much we can buy. And the riches I have are not on this earth. My riches are knowing God and knowing that our children also have a personal relationship with God. There is nothing this world can offer or that I can purchase that is worth more than that!
We are instructed in the Scriptures that we are not to store up treasures on earth.
Matthew 6:19-21
19 “Do not store up for your selves’ treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for your selves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Thank You Father for Your gift of salvation through Your Son Jesus Christ.
Thank You God for all that You provide for us as we walk on this earth.
Thank You God that You are our treasure.
Thank You God for giving Your Living Word as our instruction book as we travel through this world that is not our home.
GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU
Thursday July 6 2017 SUMMER HAS FINALLY ARRIVED
Thursday July 6 2017 SUMMER HAS FINALLY ARRIVED
SUMMER’S BIOGRAPHY
Kathleen Martens
July 6, 2017
Summer days in cumbersome heat
Settle in stillness nature’s song.
Time seems to expand the days
As evening awakens insect throngs.
Slow in movement under sultry blanket
Morning’s vigor released without guilt.
Languid motions thwart best laid plans
And daytime hours easily spilled.
All striving is laid to rest
Liberating self as motions slow.
Heart and body nourished as one
In the halcyon of summer’s glow.
As sparkling fireflies dance in the night
All sounds muffled grand.
Summer embraces sacred moments;
And stillness of the season in God’s command.
GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU!
P.S. It’s almost as if I can hear the corn growing!
Wednesday July 5 2017 IT IS DONE (ALMOST)
Wednesday July 5 2017 IT IS DONE (ALMOST)
Unfortunately it is not the album that is done, but the placement of my books on nine book shelves. All total there are four locations around the room and one at the end of the hallway. Two areas have three units each, and the other three stand alone. I have taken pictures of each grouping or unit. I still have a bit of space left on some shelves, but once I bring the books down that are scattered on shelves upstairs, all the shelves will more than likely be full.
I assume this is not exciting news unless you too are a book lover and understand the relationship a reader has with his or her books. I have very few shelves of fiction. I have a compilation of the following subjects: poetry, travel, animals, plants, gardening, health, nutrition, self improvement, Bibles, concordances, dictionaries, wisdom, jokes, short stories, Christmas titles, writing techniques, Bible studies, Christian titles, trauma recovery, children, devotionals, golden books (from early 1970’s), and Anne of Green Gables collections. The entire shelf at the end of the hallway is full of my handwritten poems and journals from past years. The vertical piles of journals still need to be organized and a few are empty journals waiting to be filled.
In the Library area I have two or three shelf sections filled with novels. I also have two complete sets of children’s story encyclopedias, one set was originally published in the 1930’s and I think the other one published in the 1960’s.
Now I must go through the assortment of “junk” piled between the couch and two facing chairs in front of the fireplace. Other than artwork, I will then be finished except for the “soft touches”. I am thrilled to have it almost finished. My goal is to have it completed by the end of next week (except for the artwork). I have a friend coming to visit for two weeks and I would love to be able to use the room.
Since I’m talking about books I will mention the fact that I still have about one half of the floor space in the former library lined with books, spine-up, in box lids for give away. I plan to have a treat and meet party so friends can come and choose books to take home with them. The rest will be donated to the Public Library book sale or St. Vincent’s resale shop. I’m down to the final stretch!
THE BOOKS THAT CALL OUT MY NAME
Kathleen Martens
July 5, 2017
http://www.visionsofpoetry.com
Like the ant that carries its load
Just a little bit each day,
With perseverance and determination
I have slowly made my way.
Book by book; box, by box
I have touched each and every one.
Though it took determination
Slowly I got it done.
At least the books are in place,
I can see and read each spine.
Such an awesome feeling to touch
The friends who are mine.
For each book is a friend,
And many I know quite well.
I scatter my choice of what I read,
And the bookmarks my story tells.
So many books are smiling at me
And if I could I would but devour!
And each and every word that is written
I would sup on by the hour.
But alas, that is but a dream.
Life too short to accomplish what I desire.
But it doesn’t keep me from trying,
Because in my heart I have a flaming fire!
I care not for riches or gold,
And very few books purchased new.
Library sales and St. Vincent’s
Is the reason I have quite a few!
And hopefully I am done!
Between the library and what I own
I think I have enough to last
Until heaven is my new home.
For some reason I do believe
That in heaven there is more to read.
Perhaps I’ll only need to touch a book
And all its thoughts in me will seed.
But until then I will enjoy
The books that call out my name,
And read and study about my Lord
WHO YESTERDAY, TODAY, AND FOREVER…
IS ALWAYS THE SAME!
Thank You God for all the great titles I have in my library.
Thank You God for this time in my life when I no longer must go to an outside job.
Thank You for awesome Christian writers who help to make Your scriptures come alive.
Thank You for all the bookshelves You have provided for my library.
GOOD BLESS YOU!
P.S. PLEASE SCROLL BELOW IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE THE SHELVES OF BOOKS I WORKED ON TODAY. You may need to click on “older post” to see them all.
P.S. All my shelf space combined equals 157 feet and 6 inches of linear shelf space.
Tuesday July 4 2017 WE NO LONGER STAND FOR WHAT WE ONCE STOOD
Tuesday July 4 2017 WE NO LONGER STAND FOR WHAT WE ONCE STOOD
WE NO LONGER STAND FOR WHAT WE ONCE STOOD
Kathleen Martens
July 4, 2017
Today is our country’s birthday,
Celebrating two hundred and Forty one!
I wonder how long it will survive
Before its life is done?
In the years that I’ve lived
Our country has certainly changed,
And not always for the better,
Each year seems more deranged.
God’s been left out of so many things;
Shut out from schools and places,
And we wonder why our Nation flounders
When from our roots we’ve strayed paces.
Prayer is no longer considered acceptable
At events, at work, or at school.
When Godly character is set aside,
Then another facet will jump to rule.
And the choices are either GOOD or EVIL.
Just add a “D” to evil and you remove all GOOD.
Then you will find that our country
No longer stands for what we once stood.
As a citizen I honor our country and the beliefs and integrity upon which it was founded. And I sincerely believe our freedoms are at stake as we must now fight for the very reasons our forefathers separated from their mother country; freedom of religion, the right to bear arms, and freedom of speech. Though this blog is not a political platform I sincerely believe that the rights we have been given in our constitution should not be a political agenda, but considered sacred in the fact that those very freedoms are what has allowed the United States of America to stand out among the world’s countries, and accomplish so much in the past 241 years. There must be an underlying reason why so many people, both today and in history, desire to immigrate to the United States. Perhaps it is because they too desire the freedoms and opportunities that their countries do not allow.
So, when our standards, laws, and freedoms are taken away, where will YOU choose to go? The erosion has begun.
It saddens me to realize our citizens are now at war with each other simply because they do not agree on political issues.
In the book of Matthew, chapter 22, beginning with verse 35, the Sadducees and Pharisees were questioning Jesus to try to trip him up,“ 35 One of them, an expert in the law, tested Him with this question: 36 ‘Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?’
37 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.”
If only we as American citizens, regardless our religion, took the words “LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF”, our country as a whole would be a better place to abide: regardless what political stance, color, whether natural born or immigrant. And then perhaps The United States of America could stand another 241 years.
Thank You God that I still have the freedom to voice my opinion.
Thank You God that I can still own a gun if I so choose.
Thank You God that I can say to You whatever I choose to speak without retaliation.
And special thanks to You God that I can pray to You in silence regardless where I am.
GOD BLESS YOU!
AND MAY GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA!
Monday July 3 2017 TOMORROW I WILL FIND A WAY
Monday July 3 2017 TOMORROW I WILL FIND A WAY
TOMORROW I WILL FIND A WAY
Kathleen Martens
July 3, 2017
http://www.visionsofpoetry.com
Another long day
And I’ve much to say.
But due to time
I write short lines.
My brain is fried,
Words are denied.
I have a sleepy head
That wants to fall into bed.
So as my energy drains
I will refrain
And from tomorrow
I will borrow.
What I can’t do today
Tomorrow I will find a way
To take time to write
After I sleep through the night.
Thank You God for this day.
GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU
Sunday Sabbath July 2 2017 MUSIC IN THE AIR
Sunday Sabbath July 2 2017 MUSIC IN THE AIR
MUSIC IN THE AIR
Kathleen Martens
July 2, 2017
Music in the air
Abounds everywhere.
Piano keys
Set it free.
Frolic dance
In myriad chance,
Visualized notes
Hearing quotes.
Fingers dancing,
Ever prancing,
And by choice
Visualize voice.
Freedom’s heart
Notes depart
Delivering joy
As hearts employ.
Resounding swirls
Like dancing pearls,
In the air
Everywhere!
This morning at church as I sat and listened to the pianist create magic through his finger tips I actually visualized notes dancing in the air. The worship service was awesome and the sound of music penetrated my heart with sacred gladness to the Lord: I do wonder what heaven will sound like.
Thank You God for Sunday’s day of rest.
That You Lord that music speaks to my heart.
Thank You Lord for the opportunity to listen to such a talented pianist.
And thank You that I can hear.
GOOD NIGHT AND MAY GOD’S PEACE BE WITH YOU ON THIS BEAUTIFUL SABBATH SUNDAY.
Saturday July 1 2017 MY JOURNEY HOME
Saturday July 1 2017 MY JOURNEY HOME
MY JOURNEY HOME
Kathleen Martens
July 1, 2017
http://www.visionsofpoetry.com
Fields of green
In sunshine glow
Alive with motion
As breezes blow.
Offset by amber’s
Creative marsh
Wispy willows dance
Without farce.
Harmonized perfection
In beautiful delight
As a golden sun
Ushers in the night.
A wealth of beauty
In orchestrated rows;
With perfect grandeur
Nature shows.
The poet’s heart
With vision and sound
Dances gaily
As nature’s song abounds.
A mighty feast
Upon which to sup,
Exquisiteness of splendor
Brims the poet’s cup.
This evening my eyes feasted on the display of man in harmony with nature as I drove toward home on quiet country roads. Today was a day of sunshine, blue sky, and exquisite white cumulus clouds after so many days of rain. Green fields of knee-high corn, crops of soy beans, and patches of marsh, framed by tree covered hills, filled me with passion and delight for the spectacular array of nature’s offerings. Not only was the sun golden, but the silence of the world around me was also golden, allowing nature’s song to dance and resonate in my heart.
Isaiah 55:12
“You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.”
Thank You God for the exquisite world You created.
Thank You for today’s sunshine.
Thank You for the crops in the fields.
Thank You for the beautiful drive home today.
GOD BLESS YOU!
Thursday June 30 2017 A KISS UPON MY FACE
Thursday June 30 2017 A KISS UPON MY FACE
A KISS UPON MY FACE
Kathleen Martens
June 30, 2017
Rain…a gift from heaven,
But sometimes we complain a bit.
It seems we either have too much
Or in a dry spell sit.
But oh the sound in early morn
Is beautiful to hear
As it waters ferns of lace
And hickory trees so near.
Earth’s aroma is like a song
As it floods the senses,
Speaking to the heart
Breaking down defenses.
I close my eyes to live the moment
Wrapped up in sound and space,
Tinkling drops of liquid gold…
A kiss upon my face.
Thank You God for the gift of rain;
For the color green and sunshine.
Thank You Father that I am Yours
And thank You that You are mine.
GOD BLESS YOU AND HAVE A WONDERFUL WEEKEND!
Thursday June 29 2017 SILENCE IS A TALENT
Thursday June 29 2017 SILENCE IS A TALENT
Oh how fortunate I am to have a friend of such wisdom who sends out “THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY”! The problem is, too many of them hit home with me. I received this one earlier this week and the words she sent are again an eye opener.
“THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Silence is a talent, as greatly to be cherished
As that other asset, the gift of speech.
Apples of Gold”
I don’t think there is a day that goes by that I don’t find the above statement so true, but of course it is only after I open my mouth and insert foot. But, with the help of my wise friend I do think I am becoming more aware of my need for such a talent. I would do well to take this “Thought for the Day” and practice it daily. And I tell myself, I will solemnly try!
And perhaps that goes for my blogs too! It gives me the great excuse to once again try and cut down on all that I write. Unless I am just brimming to overflowing with words I plan to keep my blogs to two or three weekly. I plan to continue my daily poem.
The summer is flying by too quickly and I am pressed for time for all that needs to be accomplished as I jump from one project to the next, some of which have time limits. I need to focus my time on other commitments at the present. Perhaps next year I will do what I did the first year I retired; give no commitments to outside activities. Thanks to all of you who faithfully read and comment on my blogs. Please continue to check in and remember I do enjoy hearing from you.
SILENCE IS A TALENT
Kathleen Martens
June 29, 2017
Silence is a talent
One of which I lack.
When I have something to say
Words I do not lack.
But I am certain
Some may tire of my voice,
So from hence forward
I will limit words by choice.
Though if I’m not careful
I may explode inside,
So I’ll spend more time with God
And in Him I will confide.
Now don’t hold me to this,
But know I do mean well.
Perhaps I’ll just find new ears
And my stories to others tell.
Thank You God for giving me food for thought.
Thank You for friends that share their heart.
Thank You Lord for loving me.
And thank You that You always have a listening ear.
GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU.
Wednesday June 28 2017 ANOTHER DAY TOO SHORT
Wednesday June 28 2017 ANOTHER DAY TOO SHORT
HOPEFULLY THERE WILL ALWAYS BE A LIST
Kathleen Martens
June 28, 2017
http://www.visionsofpoetry.com
Another day too short
With so many things to do.
But I never regret
What it is I ensue.
Time moves on
Always unstoppable;
Regardless what I plan
Finishing seems improbable.
But what I can do today
Then when I wake it is done.
And the good thing about that is
Tomorrow I’ll be on the run.
But I’m sure when I retire
After tomorrow’s setting sun
There will still be a list
Of things yet left undone.
And so it is. My saga continues. But…I do see the light at the end of the tunnel. For a starter I think I finished one task today that I can cross off. I’ve been helping someone with a speech and I believe it is now finished. Final draft was sent out tonight. I also finished photographing all the pages of the album I have been working on for more than a year and a half. It is somewhere in the vicinity of 300 pages (about 150 layouts). I photographed many of the pages more than once because at first I could not get the exact angles and measurements from camera to easel. I finally was able to make everything cooperate. There is still a lot to do but each day I make inroads.
So much more I could say but must close down for the night as I have an 8:00 a.m. appointment in the morning across town and the rush hour traffic has escalated a thousand fold since I moved here 31 years ago. Due to my business being in the lower level of our home, very rarely was it necessary for me to go out early. Dave and I now plan our day around rush hour. We always try to be done with our travels before the three o’clock hour. Very rarely do I travel across town at 7:00 a.m. But when a lady needs a hair cut she takes the appointment she can get!
Thank You God for the highways that make traveling safe and easy.
Thank You for early morning appointments so I can get so much else done throughout the day.
Thank You for protecting us tonight as we sat in our basement safe room as the tornado warning swept past us.
Thank You God for Your continued protection tonight until the storm watch is over at 10:00 p.m.
GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU.
I AM GOING TO BED. MY CELL PHONE WILL BEEP IF THE TORNADO WATCH TURNS INTO A TORNADO WARNING. HAVE A SAFE AND WONDERFUL TOMORROW.
Tuesday June 27 2017 THE VERY ATTENTION OF THE HOLY GOD
Tuesday June 27 2017 THE VERY ATTENTION OF THE HOLY GOD
My day has run out of hours. The poems I wrote today will not be published because they were personally written for specific people. However, I wrote several poems on Sunday so I will choose one for you to read tonight.
More about my day will be shared at a later date.
THE VERY ATTENTION OF THE HOLY GOD
Kathleen Martens
June 25, 2917
Oh Father, that I can summon
The very attention of the Holy God!
The power that created the universe
As well as all earth’s sod!
How is it Lord that You listen
When I call out your name?
And that You wrap me in Your love
And forgive all sin and shame?
Thank You for Your patient Love
When I have no time to talk,
And even when I don’t listen
You come beside me and walk.
Draw me close and never let me go
That my heart pants after you.
And that I would know the most important time
Is when I’m in Your presence to renew.
Thank You God that You are with me all the time!
Thank You God that You always hear me call out to You.
Thank You for this awesome day and all the beauty I saw today.
Thank You that I can see.
GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU!
Monday June 26 2017 PAUSE TO THINK
Monday June 26 2017 PAUSE TO THINK
Yesterday I had a question from a friend which caused me to stop and consider a more complete answer than that which I answered spontaneously. The words my friend speaks often cause me to pause and give greater introspection.
My friend asked me the question, “Why do people write blogs?” She questioned as to why people would share about their life in a public forum. Perhaps she was curious as to why I write my blog (which does have personal life experiences presented in a public forum) but perhaps she wasn’t referring to me at all. I really don’t know. I answered her as to why I write a blog and surmised why others may do the same.
I came up with a list of why I spend my time tackling a daily blog, starting with the fact that I believe the Lord had directed me to write so I could share my hope and love with others. I began in January 2015 and had two months to learn how to administrate an online blog. I had tried previously but could not learn in the fashion in which the first volunteer taught. Through one conversation a man stepped up to the plate and offered to teach me. He gave up his Sunday afternoons for almost two months to do so. And, as for an older me, it definitely took that long for me to learn. After I learned how to administer the blog I immediately left on a four month trip. The purpose for the blog was to connect with family back home, as well as with those I met on my journey. I wrote about my trip and about those with whom I encountered along the way. I asked people if they would allow me to quote them in my blog and usually they would say yes and ask for my blog address. A lot of the people I met followed my travels, wrote to me along the way to give me encouragement, and shared with me things about their spiritual life.
I believe the reason God had everything come together with an excellent instructor, the timing, and with those I met along the way, was for the purpose it served. I was able to touch hearts and lives and be a witness to them through my writing. God has given me a gift and I want to share my gift with those who are put in my path to receive it.
I intended to stop writing when I returned home. However, when I stated that information on my “last blog post” I received a number of emails from readers who gave me a variety of reasons I should not stop. For one person it was the fact that it was the only devotional she received during the day and others contacted with me spiritual questions and updates on what changes they had experienced since our encounter. Each person who contacted me had their own personal reason for reading the blog. So, I continued for awhile longer.
And I am still faithful to log a bit of my life each day. My hands do not host a pen as easily as they used to do and I find writing on a keyboard much easier and quicker. (At least it is much easier than deciphering my penmanship.) For my own personal reason I believe I write because it provides a measure of discipline in my life. Some days I purposely do not write in blog form (other than publishing the poem I write for the day). On those days I collect my personal private thoughts, write out my goals, my conversations with God, and perhaps even a frustration or two. I have shelves and shelves of handwritten journals and now I have boxes of printed pages of blogs, journals, and poems. Who will want them after I am gone? Why do I pour out my heart? Why do I so faithfully come before the Lord and offer Him a poem each day?
After pondering the above questions I have come to the conclusion (which I mentioned in yesterday’s answer to my friend) that I do it as a “discipline” because it keeps my mind active. The blog causes me additional reasons to think, read, and converse with people, so I garner stories of which to write. I continue to write because I still feel God calling me to give away the words I write. I do it because sharing Christ’s words of hope, peace, and love, will perhaps direct the heart of others toward God.
As many people who write blogs, there are probably as many reasons to do so. I have come to the conclusion that even if I didn’t have one person read my blog, I would still do it for all the good it does for me in my own life. I feel as if I am being faithful to what God has called me to do. I know I will not be able to continue indefinitely, but for this time in my life I can I choose to continue writing. It has made a difference in my life and has given me purpose to be true to self. It allows my voice to be heard. And, I ultimately believe that having one’s voice heard may be the universal thread which is the motivating factor for those who write. I believe that those who choose a public forum in which to publish do so as to have their voices heard. I sincerely pray that the voice that comes out of my heart will be pleasing to the Lord.
And, you see, the question my friend asked me yesterday gave me pause to think. And I notice as I age that even THINKING takes a bit more time.
FOOD FOR YOUR THOUGHTS
Kathleen Martens
June 26, 2017
http://www.visionsofpoetry.com
Thinking is such a beautiful gift
We often take for granted.
But we must give consideration
What thoughts in our minds are planted.
For what goes in somehow comes out.
Be careful what you read and hear.
What you choose to see on TV
Can cause pain sorrow or fear.
So choose carefully what you allow in
That gives food for your thoughts.
What I have chosen as my feast
Are the words that Jesus taught!
Thank You God for a brain that still works.
Thank You for the Word of Your Scripture.
Thank You for the brain power to administer a website.
Thank You for all the functions my brain does in the course of one day.
Thank You for the gift You have given me to share with others.
GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU!
Saturday June 24 2017 THE REST OF THE STORY
Saturday June 24 2017 THE REST OF THE STORY
Sometimes situations are not as simple as I might hope them to be. So it is with the fall I had this past Monday. Manifestations of pain seemed to sneak up on me as the days past. I expected the third day post fall would be my peak day for pain. But I have one pain that just seems to exhibit new symptoms daily. I went to the chiropractor yesterday thinking I could have a back adjustment and perhaps that would take away the burning spot of pain in my back that has reared its head a bit more intensely each passing day. I stood with my face toward the upright adjustment table and the doctor began to lower me to a prone position. As the table lowered me face down the pain intensified to the extent that it was intolerable. He immediately brought me back to an upright position. He gave me a more thorough examination and discovered a rib that has been broken loose from the ribcage. This broken rib counts as my 6th broken rib in the last four years.
Broken ribs are a nuisance, and even more so, A PAINFUL NUISANCE! I had mentioned to Dave several times that I thought I had a broken rib but I wasn’t certain. All my other breaks in my ribs were at the tips of the rib, not where they attached in the back area. The stand-in doctor I saw on Monday did not diagnose the detachment as he did not examine me thoroughly. He was the same doctor I had last year that said I didn’t have broken ribs from the fall in August only to have it confirmed three days later by an x-ray, that yes indeed, I did have three broken ribs. I had a suspicion that this rib was broken before it was confirmed yesterday. I chose to not have an x-ray. There is nothing that can be done about a broken rib except limiting my movements so it can heal in place. Breathing deeply is also painful at this stage of healing. But, I will continue to do what I can do within my limits. AND…I SOLEMNLY PROMISE TO SLOW DOWN AND BE MORE AWARE OF WHAT IS ON THE GROUND IN FRONT OF ME.
My tri-focal lenses and diminished vision is sometimes the culprit for not noticing what is on the ground. I do not have good depth of perception. My friend who is 86 years old wrote me this week and told me that her greatest fear at this stage of her life is falling. Her comment opened my eyes to the importance of me, protecting me, from bodily harm by being more aware of my movements. I don’t think I need another wake-up-call.
Saturday is not a normal blog day but I still wanted to document my situation due to my fall. Logging in my blog (journal) often helps me pinpoint certain events and their significance. So sorry if hearing about an old woman’s woe is boring or sounds like a complaint. I can’t help being old, but I certainly do not mean anything I say to be a complaint. Just the facts ma’am, just the facts!
SO FUTURE GENERATIONS…
Kathleen Martens
June 24 2017
Just the facts in mundane prose
Might be as boring as blowing a nose.
But I capture events on paper
Because my memory seems to taper.
So I speak what I want to say,
Write a poem and go on my way.
And leave the rest for others to guess
I’m extremely careful as to what I confess.
There is always secrecy from the outside in,
Things I tell to very few friends.
But I enjoy writing a bit of my history
So future generations may enjoy my mystery.
Thank You God that my body is created to heal.
Thank You Jesus that You know how I feel.
Thank You God that there is still much I can do,
But most of all Heavenly Father, thank You for being YOU!
Have a great day.
GOD BLESS YOU
Friday June 23 2017 LOOKING BACK
Friday June 23 2017 LOOKING BACK
Forty Four years ago today Dave and I were married. When I walked down that long aisle in a borrowed church I had no concept of how quickly 44 years would go by. I am still the same person, but yet, so completely different. Immaturity is only understood from a distant observation. And when I look back from this distance I am utterly aghast at some of the things I did and said “way back when”. And now, even though I am older and hopefully wiser, I often times still make big mistakes.
But, there is one thing I did in my life that was no mistake and that was to marry Dave. Not even for one day have I ever regretted it. To this day I truly believe it was only through God’s provision that I met and married the perfect man that God picked out for me. Since he is a man he is not perfect, but for me, he was exactly who God designed just for me, so that made him perfect for me.
To celebrate 44 years we decided to make ourselves an adventure. We headed out with no destination, no plans in mind except to stop by the AAA and pick up some maps so we would be able to find our way home. Yes, we have GPS on our phones but it seems much more adventuresome to “map it out”. And believe me, when you get out on the back roads of Wisconsin a map comes in handy.
We ended up in a little town on the edge of The Wisconsin River known as The Village of Prairie du SAC. And the highlight of our day was our last stop at a mom and pop bakery named THE MIXING BOWL BAKERY. All the food in the bakery is made from scratch and looked delicious. And the highlight of going there was the soft serve ice cream made fresh daily. Vanilla and chocolate were the only flavors offered. I had a small taste of chocolate, and then an entire 8 ounce cup of the fresh vanilla. OH MY GOODNESS!!! It was ecstasy! Funny, but 44 years ago I remember ecstasy as being something quite different than a scoop of vanilla soft serve! THE MIXING BOWL BAKERY is already beckoning my return.
It was interesting when we entered the bakery to see several children scattered about. The couple who owns and bakes everything themselves have 9 children under the ages of 11. They are a beautiful family and the children were so wonderfully behaved. I asked the baker mom if she home-schooled and she answered yes. I had great pleasure in conversing with the children. I was amazed to see how well they interacted with an adult and how candidly they spoke. I was informed by the oldest that she was the “eldest” in the family and she also volunteered the information that four of her siblings shared the same birth date. The eldest child (and self appointed spokes-person) informed me that there were two sets of twins, born two years apart on the exact same calendar date. It appears that the children spend their day at the bakery. It was actually quite a homey atmosphere. I also believe they may have living quarters under the same roof toward the back of the building. To say the least, it was an interesting set-up and they portrayed a beautiful model of a family working and thriving together. I was impressed by how well behaved the children were. Oh, I was also informed (by the eldest) that there were three babies already in heaven. I must say, a busy mom (and a busy dad)!
ECSTASY WHAT A WONDERFUL WORD
Kathleen Martens
June 23, 2017
Ecstasy! What a wonderful word
For joy, happiness, and elation heard.
A cup of ice cream offers bliss
Like a Seventh Heaven or well lighted kiss.
OH the thrill of such a taste
As a bite of chocolate eaten in haste!
Such a pleasure of sweet excitement,
A once a year treat with such delightment!
A day of adventure ending sweet
As our 44th anniversary we did meet.
About future we know not what’s in store.
As for anniversaries, we hope for 31 more!
Thank You God for these past 44 years.
Thank You God for all the time we have before us.
Thank You especially for our two children born from our love, one from our hearts and one from our seed.
Thank You for Your protection over our family these past 44 years.
Thank You God for the love that you have placed in mine and Dave’s hearts for each other these past 44 years and 8 months.
GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU.
P.S.
FUN FACTS!
We met October 28, 1972
We were engaged on Valentines day February 14 1973.
We dated long distance and had 23 actual days of being together during the eight months before our wedding.
Married June 23, 1973.
AND LIVED HAPPILY EVER AFTER (ESPECIALLY AFTER OUR KIDS LEFT HOME!)
And now, wouldn’t you know it, they can still interrupt us just as much with a few dozen texts as I try to write this blog!!!
Thursday June 22 2017 A DOUBLE BREAK
Thursday June 22 2017 A DOUBLE BREAK
It has been an interesting past two weeks. A whirlwind bus trip to Branson, Missouri which was absolutely magnificent and another partial week at home without exercising!
Last year when Dave and I traveled to Cincinnati, Kentucky (also a bus tour) to see the Creation Museum and Noah’s Ark I had a significant fall. I was running when the tip of my sandal caught on a raised area and I fell hard on a cement floor. I broke three ribs, pulled my hamstring, caused a popliteal cyst to burst in my knee, as well as causing a sundry of other ailments which necessitated an MRI. Needless to say the leader of this year’s tour was greatly relieved to deliver me home safe and sound, all in one piece. I was quite happy too!
We arrived home to a well watered garden, thanks to both our house sitter and God’s gift of rainy days. We enjoyed a relaxing Father’s day shopping for food to restock our fresh fruits and vegetables. I so looked forward to this week as I had set it up as a staycation week which is when I go absolutely no where except to the gym. This week I made an exception. I decided I wanted stop at a store to pick up an item on the way to the gym. That was my first mistake. I purchased what I needed and then took a short, out of the way walk (my second mistake). My left shoe was grabbed by a piece of cement that was protruding higher than the ground where I was walking. My foot did not get past the raised area and I had a split second fall without any warning. My body was ramrod straight and immediately slammed to the ground. My first point of impact was the underneath part of my chin that hit the sidewalk in a whiplash motion. My nose was the next to be pulverized by the hard sidewalk. Only later did I discover all the other impact areas. I look like a wounded warrior where the other guy won.
My body was quite shook up! I never did make it to the gym. I did see a doctor and I have no broken bones, no leaky spleen, no head injury, and I can still walk. But believe me, I am a walking testimony to the impact I felt. And both the good and the bad part is the fact that I am not to exercise until next week due to my injuries needing a bit of time to heal. I didn’t need to be told twice. TWO WEEKS WITHOUT EXERCISE AND NOT WRITING A BLOG GAVE ME A DOUBLE BREAK! There was no time to exercise on the trip and now that I have the time, my body is not in condition to take to the gym. I hope I am doing better by Monday because I sure can feel the need to get rid of some vacation calories!
Before you offer me too much sympathy let me explain that I don’t have the kind of injuries that prevent me from doing what needs to be done. I am in the photo stage of my album work and I have been able to get my body to cooperate. It is a big task and will probably take me quite a few more days to finish. I am using natural light and only have a few hours a day that provide the kind of light I need. I am pleased that I am close to the finalization of a project that has taken me over a year thus far. The end is in sight!
ACT YOUR AGE!
Kathleen Martens
June 22, 2017
SLOW DOWN! Are the words I hear
Coming from everyone, far and near!
ACT YOUR AGE is another cry
From those who see me whiz by.
I guess I must practice being old
Slow and methodical as I go.
But so much energy I need to express
And I love living life with oodles of zest.
But this falling bit is not the least bit fun
Though I really do love to be on the run!
But my neighbor’s sage advice as I go
Is to take it easy and go real slow!
The best I can say is that I will try.
Perhaps it will postpone the date I die.
And it is not much fun to smash your face
Especially in a public place!
A purple chin and a purple nose
Shines brightly wherever I go.
And oh the looks and averted gazes
I’m sure this face to others amazes!
Thank You God for protecting me from major injury or death.
Thank You Lord for a safe and wonderful trip.
Thank You for friends.
Thank You that I am able to sit here in front of my computer and that I survived to tell my story.
GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU.
Friday June 9 2017 TAKING A BREAK
Friday June 9 2017 TAKING A BREAK
Every once in a while it is time for me to take a break. And that time is now! A stay-cation just doesn’t cut the mustard because staying at home is no vacation for me. So therefore, I am escaping Wisconsin. I will not be writing blogs until June 22. I will daily write poetry but will not publish them. Perhaps I’ll add them to future blogs. Try as I may, our friends who babysit our home when we are gone refuse to learn how to publish my blogs.
To be truthful I see myself climbing the walls because I will not have the time to write daily. As mundane, repetitious, or scattered (or thrilling) my blogs may seem at times, I still benefit from the daily discipline of sitting down in front of my computer to see what dances onto the screen from the touch of my fingers.
There are deadlines looming ahead and my time is scarce. This year has flown by more quickly than any previous year of my life. I must focus on the week ahead, enjoy myself, and then come back to reality. At the end I’ll either be extremely tired, or exhilaratingly rejuvenated!
I’ll let you know.
EVERY SINGLE SECOND
Kathleen Martens
June 9, 2017
An hour goes by without a glance,
A day escapes without a chance.
A week is history all too soon,
And the month seems to zoom.
The year begins and then it ends,
It doesn’t stay around to become a friend.
The decades too quickly cluster,
And one of these days I’ll not muster.
But until then I’ll enjoy the ride
And in euphoria I’m content to abide.
To live life fully is a great pleasure,
And every single second, an awesome treasure!
Thank You God for the joy in my life that comes from You.
Thank You for every second I live.
Thank You God that my readers will come back to say hello.
GOD BLESS YOU!
Thursday June 8, 2017 THE CONTINUING SAGA
Thursday June 8, 2017 THE CONTINUING SAGA
The following blog was instigated as a response to a friend’s email about a previous blog written on June 6, 2017 “A SOUND YOU NEVER FORGET.”
EMAIL:
“Hi KM,
You never did mention how much damage it did to your neighbor’s house when the tree fell on it.
Did it ruin furniture, walls, and etc.? Was anyone hurt? Will insurance cover all of the damage?”
The tree was large, the branch that fell was as large as most yard trees. Fortunately the outer most leafy branches had some give as it came crashing down and the end of the branch, though it was totally broken off was left supported in the air which took the pressure off the fall. Some roof damage and they were told they need a new roof on one portion of their house as well as a thorough inspection for structural damage in the attic and support system. There was also gutter and yard damage.
No one was hurt and no furniture or keepsakes were ruined. One person was in the house and she said that when the tree fell it was frightening as she heard and felt the impact when the tree hit the roof. The splintering of the wood made a horrible racket as it gave way and that sound is one of the most frightening sounds for someone who lives under trees. Yes, the insurance adjuster said it will be covered.
The tree is now gone and has become either wood chips or huge pieces left in the yard. It is beautiful oak wood and one person will be buying the trunk and hauling it away with a skip loader. One grocery sized bag of the wood is almost too heavy to pick up. My neighbors allowed me to choose a couple of pieces of the tree to keep. The pieces of wood were quite beautiful to me. There are lots of bugs living in that tree so I won’t be bringing my treasures into the house unless I have them fumigated. My wood art may become ornaments in the garden.
The tree specialist said there were signs that the tree had been struck by lightening. There was other damage as well and it was recommended to cut the tree down. Dave and I were able to watch four men dismantle a living structure that is estimated as being almost 300 years old. It was like watching a choreographed dance of four strong men conquering a mighty giant.
I (with all of my exaggeration experience) estimate that the tree was more than 60 feet tall with a branch spread matching its height. Its massiveness was quite impressive as it towered over a two story house. My neighbor mourned as she watched its demise.
Today Dave and I watched with rapt attention the cycle of life. Living and dying; we each have one turn. The tree spread its arms and its roots grew deeper and deeper. It has played host to many species through its centuries. And now it will be recycled in a myriad of ways, ultimately giving back to the earth the nutrients that the earth provided for its own existence. The tree lived well and its legacy lives on.
I think this old tree is a parallel to our own lives. We are born, we put down roots, we grow and change; and perhaps we offer kindness to others by feeding them, providing protection and love, as well as being there for those who need sanctuary. We face adversity, and we keep going, but someday the old body just gives out and we too leave our legacy behind.
We should ask ourselves this question, “What legacy will we leave behind?” A legacy is never written while someone is still alive. Nor is it a letter one writes to another instructing them as to how they want to be remembered. Rather, it is how people remember the deceased because of who they were, which is a reflection of how that person lived their life. How we live our lives is actually the determining factor as to what kind of legacy we too will leave behind. When others remember a person with an upright character, who shows kindness, gives protection, expresses love to others, and speaks gently, that is how a person will be remembered. How they are remembered after death is the legacy they leave.
I will miss that old oak tree, as I am sure the squirrels, birds, ants, bugs, and spiders will. And the loss for each animal, insect, or person will be experienced differently. And just like that centuries old tree, you too will be remembered with a legacy after death. You may have touched lives in ways you were never aware. It is when you touch the lives and hearts of others that your legacy will live on.
When you walk with God following the plan He has for your life, just like that tree, you too will leave a beautiful legacy. That old oak tree has stood for centuries with its arms open to protect and provide for so many, so thus can your legacy be. Ultimately, the only legacy we need be concerned about is the legacy God writes for us.
And I think God had that old oak tree’s legacy planned before the squirrel planted the acorn. God also has plans for us.
So thank you Marilyn for opening the door for today’s blog topic. I didn’t mean to make my letter quite so long!
OH, IF I COULD JUST HAVE SUCH
Kathleen Martens
June 8, 2017
http://www.visionsofpoetry.com
How many trees stand
Because of a buried seed
Upon which squirrels
Had thought to feed?
A massive oak
So very alive,
Each day its purpose
Is only to strive.
Going forward in time
With rings of remembrance,
Even chopped down
It continues deliverance.
Giving of self
With joyful votive.
Offering its all
Without motive.
Firewood for warmth
On cold winter nights,
And art for the mantle
As stunning sights.
Planks for the carpenter
To create true treasures,
Which will warm hearts
With endearing pleasures.
Wood-chips for gardens
To recycle the earth,
To enrich the soil
So nutrients not dearth.
And someday mushrooms
Can receive their food
Attached to decaying,
Crumbling oak wood.
And all is well
With such a legacy of love…
“Oh, if I could just have such”,
From the Father above!
Thank You God for clean windows.
Thank You God for loving me so much.
Thank You God for all the trees that surround me as I gaze out the windows.
Thank You God that You care for the little birds who nest in trees.
Have a wonderful evening!
GOD BLESS YOU
P.S. SEE PICTURES BELOW
Visions of Poetry 