Category Archives: Travel Log
Wednesday May 17 2017 SPRING’S GLORY
Wednesday May 17 2017 SPRING’S GLORY
SPRING’S GLORY
Kathleen Martens
May 17, 2017
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
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
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
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!
Monday May 15 2017 AND SWOOSH GOES THE DAY!
SUCH JOY IT IS TO VISIT WITH A FRIEND
Kathleen Martens
May 15, 2017
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.
Saturday May 13, 2017 ALLOW YOURSELF TO FLY
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
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
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
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!
Wednesday May 10 2017 AND POETRY SINGS FROM WITHIN
Wednesday May 10 2017 AND POETRY SINGS FROM WITHIN
A few months ago I read a short article in the Madison State Journal soliciting poets to write a poem consisting of 4 or 5 lines for a competition. Three winners would be chosen and the winning poems would be published on a Madison Metro Bus. Since it had been so long ago since I entered the contest I assumed that I had not made the cut. So, needless to say, I was quite surprised and delighted to find out that my entry had indeed been chosen as one of the winners.
My poem may be painted on the outside of a bus for all of Madison to see! The May 2016 article below contradicts what I remember this year’s competition stated so I don’t know if this year’s rules are different from last year’s rules . Following is an excerpt telling about last year’s competition. I thought you might find it interesting.
“May 2016
…“Metro got such tremendous feedback from their ridership — it’s making people happier to ride the bus,” Wolf said.
Since then, the project has seen huge growth. Originally only for high school students, the contest has since expanded to include all ages, from elementary school to adults over 18. Over 300 poems were submitted this year (2016), including, for the first time, Spanish-language contributions.
Oscar Mireles, the current Madison Poet Laureate, sees the acceptance of bilingual poems as a recognition of the growing Latino population in Madison.”
Mireles had the task of reviewing 300 poems to select the top 30. This involved reading them multiple times.
“When I went back the second time, I read them out loud, because sometimes when you read them out loud they change,” Mireles said.
The theme of the poems was “Write your Madison.” Poets were instructed to “help us see what you see and hear what you hear.” In response, individuals submitted poems about the Capitol, sunsets, the farmers’ market, and even the Little Free Libraries around town, Mireles said.
Bottom of Form
The top 30 were then handed over to Firman’s typography class at Edgewood College. Firman, an assistant professor in graphic design and multimedia, had her students pick poems and design graphics that highlighted the themes of the poem.
Firman believes the project is beneficial because it gives her students a chance to work with an outside client, as well as see the tangible results of their efforts.
“For the students, it’s pretty amazing to see your work printed that large and in the real world,” Firman said. For graphic designers, all too often, “its all computer based and you don’t get to see the actual thing.”
After the graphics were completed, the poets were publicly recognized for their work at a reception. Poets, family members and supporters packed into the American Family Insurance Dream Bank to honor the poets and hear their winning selections. Winners were also given a copy of the graphic designed for their poem.
The poets ranged from nervous elementary school kids to published authors.
“We probably had a 70 to 80 year span from oldest writer to the youngest writer. Poetry really is for everybody. We want to bring poetry to the community and bring the community back to poetry,” Mireles said.
One small boy had been selected to recite his poem in Spanish. The poem explained that he loved buses, because they bring him to parks. Too nervous to read it by himself, Mireles had the whole audience help him out and read the poem with him.
To Mireles, this story illustrates why the program is valuable, as it displays the power of poetry to a younger generation.
“I wish when I was younger that I would have been more exposed to poetry. The poetry I was exposed to was in a dusty old book and was by some old guy I’d never heard of, and it seemed so distant,” Mireles said. “With all this poetry, it’s so local and Madison-based, and it seems very alive.”
The end
I will not publish my winning poem until after the reception in June.
AND POETRY SINGS FROM WITHIN
Kathleen Martens
May 10, 2017
Poetry is my world of wonder
In nature’s realm of great plunder.
Beauty waiting to be seen
Dressed in finery as a royal queen.
Waiting to be gobbled up,
A visual beauty on which to sup
If one would stop to take note
And read in nature what God wrote.
The blue of heaven; nature’s delight,
Offering a panorama full of light.
The ever changing magnificent sky
Filled with clouds and birds that fly.
The ocean view in all its glory,
Poetry in movement tells its story.
Never-ending waves that wash ashore
Speak poetically for evermore.
Poignant splendor of mountain peaks
Is a poem man doth seek,
Poetry in motion to climb so high
A poem so virtuous; knowing one could die.
Morning dew in dawn’s light,
A beautiful poem one can sight.
Magic glistens beneath one’s feet
And morning’s glory, the world meets.
The eye can feast, the nose inhales
All the wonders one can smell.
The ears can hear and fingers touch,
And the mouth tastes nature’s lunch.
In the secret heart a poem is born,
A spirit refreshed, never forlorn.
Nature speaks in rhyming verse
With bountiful pleasure and open purse.
And poetry sings from within
As each day’s poem becomes a friend.
And soul is filled with joy and wonder
Of nature’s offerings to be plundered.
Much of today was spent in the yard thinning and transplanting ferns and hostas. It was so refreshing to be outside working alone. It was as if I could hear my gardens whispering verses of poetry into my heart. Often when working alone short poems come to me, I smile, and they are gone. Another lovely Stay-cation day filled with beautiful moments!
Thank You God for the beauty that surrounds me.
Thank You God for the beauty of Your handiwork.
GOD BLESS YOU!
Tuesday May 9 2017 STAY-CATION: SYNONYM FOR WORK-ATION!
Tuesday May 9 2017 STAY-CATION: SYNONYM FOR WORK-ATION!
“STAY-CATION”: SYNONYM FOR “WORK-ATION!”
Kathleen Martens
May 9, 2017
What a marvelous week
To just stay at home,
But we should have known better
Than to answer the phone.
Hubby now has been called away,
But on a righteous endeavor!
When you do “Kingdom work”,
It sometimes last forever.
So Wednesday is out of the question
For the two of us to gather.
But just between you and me
Solitude is sometimes my rather.
What I especially like
In this week without plans
Is all the “work” we are accomplishing
With no outside demands.
Our library is taking shape
But we still need more space
Upon which to line our books
So each one has a place.
So tomorrow I’ll be alone
And it’s my day off from the gym.
I can do whatever I like
So I might just climb out on a limb.
An unplanned day here and there
Is like a precious gift.
I can choose to be quite focused
Or give myself a chance to drift.
I’ll let you know at day’s end
If I accomplish or veg-out.
The real beauty of an unplanned day
Is that I’ll enjoy it without a doubt!
After I returned home from the gym Dave and I intended to work together for one hour this morning and then eat lunch and play cards. But…the work sucked us in. We needed to move things around in order to open up the floor space so we could bring furniture in from the former library. The books and shelves were moved a couple of weeks ago. Many of the books still remain boxed due to lack of shelf space. One end of the room is stacked with boxes and furniture we plan to donate. It felt good to get so much done. It took most of the afternoon but neither one of us wanted to quit.
I took a few pictures on my phone in order to give you an update. I have no artwork hung on the walls or final touches completed. We are still in the imagining stage. We are calling this our “LEFTOVER ROOM”. Except for the additional shelves, which we need to buy, everything else in the room is leftover from some other part of the house. Our loveseat we purchased 38 years ago. The pale blue wingback we purchased at the same time. The chairs across from the loveseat are the two from the previous library. The two chairs facing the shelves came from my office. Of course the trunk is old and we’ve been dragging it around for 40 plus years. The secretary (which at present is surrounded by what we plan to donate) is unseen at this point and was also purchased about 44 years ago. It was already about 40 or 50 years old when we purchased it. Several items were props I used for photography. And the old table by the window has lived its past 25 years in our laundry room. It will be my Bible study desktop for taking notes.
It’s been lots of fun playing around with the old stuff we already own. Somehow it all works, at least for us. There is nothing I love more than a home that looks lived in and shows a bit of wear and tear to prove it.
I look forward to selecting the photos we would like to display. Dave has suggested that I recreate the story of my 2015 United States and Canadian trip. This room has served me well these past years as my studio. The only photos I displayed were those of clients. Dave is now encouraging me to create the story of our lives upon our walls. He just hopes I won’t hang a hundred different garden and flower prints. Due to the chance, I just might do that, we have decided to work together creating the collage of our lives. Remember, the cobbler’s children have no shoes. Well, the photographer’s children have no photos (on the wall). However, I do have lots of photos just waiting to be rediscovered.
This Stay-cation so far has been awesome! We haven’t been able to avert a few appointments but our focus is still on doing what we want for one entire week. I already have a future week set aside! A planned week of unplanned days! How awesome is that?
If you are interested in seeing our work on display please check out the photos below. We don’t yet know what the room will look like when we are finished. It will be fun to see if our mish mash will make a splash! Actually, not knowing is quite fun.
Thank You God for this day.
Thank You God for a husband who is so wonderful to be with and who willingly works beside me.
Thank You God for books and for those who write them.
HAVE A WONDERFUL WEEK! GOD BLESS YOU!
P.S. I just asked Dave what he thinks about our week so far. Here is his comment: “As they say, so far so good.”
And he just asked what I think about it. He is waiting to help me proof the above. I think I’ll let the blog say it for me.
Monday May 8 2017 HEAVEN SENT
Monday May 8 2017 HEAVEN SENT
HEAVEN SENT
Kathleen Martens
May 8, 2017
I think I’ve found the solution
That will make a day stretch out
By doing every little thing I want,
And of such I will tell you about.
First wake up without an alarm.
Four forty five A.M. is the perfect time.
Without nary a concern start your day
And to yourself be especially kind.
Prepare your body for the day ahead
With your normal routine.
Then walk into your kitchen
Which the night before you left pristine.
Have a cup of soup with chicken
With a great big spoon of rice.
Read and eat at your leisure,
And your day starts out so nice.
Then change your plans at the drop of a hat!
Going to the gym can always wait.
So instead I boiled ten eggs
And cut vegetables on a plate.
And then I left and worked out
And had a water massage to boot!
Afterwards I went straight home
To finish working with my loot.
My loot was lots of veggies
For our most favorite salad ever!
A wonderful recipe with a creamy sauce
And worth my entire endeavor.
Then I received a call from a friend
While Dave and I were occupied.
And when I finally hung up
Lunch was prepared and set aside.
And after lunch, side by side
We worked diligently in the library.
And we accomplished so very much,
As if we had help from a little fairy.
Though there is still much to do
We decided to take a hike.
The afternoon sun in awesome slant
To provide the camera with perfect light.
We entered the privacy of our woods
And walked all the paths,
Careful to adhere to the trails
Walking slowly rather than fast.
What a leisurely way to play
Enjoying both sun and flowers.
In sparkling light of God’s creation
We felt endued by the Creator’s power.
Serenity and peace in magical moments
With the man who stole my heart.
But the day was not yet over
We still had the evening to start.
We sat outside in our paradise
Enjoying our gardens in spring.
And the day was oh so fine
Filling our hearts with a song to sing.
And the night is not yet done
As I write the events of this day.
We are so enjoying this week
Whether at work or at play.
I think I could become used to this
And should make it a monthly event.
I believe this STAY-CATION week
Is actually heaven sent!
Thank You God for such lovely spring weather.
Thank You God for protecting our flowers from the frosts we’ve had.
Thank You for our beautiful woods.
Thank You Lord that the mosquitoes you created are not yet hatched!
GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU.
IF YOU ARE NOT RETIRED YOU HAVE SOMETHING MIGHTY FINE STILL YET TO COME!
Sunday Sabbath May 7 2017 ONLY WHEN WE FIRST SEEK GOD
Sunday Sabbath May 7 2017 ONLY WHEN WE FIRST SEEK GOD
ONLY WHEN WE FIRST SEEK GOD
Kathleen Martens
May 7 2017
http://www.visionsofpoetry.com
Who is he who is the richest?
What is wealth to the world?
How much money is enough?
How is happiness unfurled?
Is the richest the one who owns the most,
The one who sits upon a throne?
No, it is actually the one
Who is content with what he owns.
Is it accumulation of gold and fame
That makes someone wealthy?
No, it is not the man with prosperity,
But the one who is spiritually healthy.
How much money is enough?
Is it what you have in store?
As answered by a prosperous man,
“I’ll be rich with just a little bit more.”
How much wealth does it take
For those owing so much not to fuss?
Lasting happiness comes when we are content
With what God has provided for us.
Seeking happiness a worthless task
If you seek not first heaven above.
For only then will all your knowledge
Culminate in understanding God’s love.
Happiness and joy are the gifts
God desires His children to own.
And when we seek first His kingdom
He showers blessings from His throne.
With wisdom and knowledge
Comes much pain,
But when you first follow God,
He makes it all for gain.
Desire wisdom and seek knowledge
That you understand wisdom received.
Adhere to God’s Word and commands
And in His Son always believe.
And only when we first seek God
Will happiness flood our hearts.
When intermingled with the joy God gives,
Our lives will have a new start.
The above poem was inspired by today’s morning message presented by Pastor Greg Pechacek, titled: “HOW TO HAVE A HAPPY LIFE”.
You are invited to listen to the sermon at: www.citychurchonline.org.
Thank You God for dedicated Pastors who study Your Word.
Thank You for this lovely Sabbath Sunday.
GOD BLESS YOU!
P.S. Reminder: This is day one of our STAYCATION! I hope this week goes by quite slowly! REMEMBER TO LIVE IN THE MOMENT AND SAVOR THE JOY THAT GOD PLACES IN YOUR HEART.
Saturday May 6 2017 THE WEEK AHEAD
Saturday May 6 2017 THE ERRATIC WEEK AHEAD
First comment: I FINISHED DESIGNING THE LAST PAGE OF THE ALBUM PHOTOS A FEW MOMENTS AGO!
Now remember what I wrote recently regarding the album…I still have miles to go but I feel celebratory tonight after finishing the last page. It feels like a great accomplishment!
Now regarding the week ahead; which has been a week long awaited. IT IS OUR STAYCATION! We have agreed to have no schedule; stay home or go whatever our moods beckon and to stay away from work! I own a book entitled ‘NO TIME FOR TACT/ 365 Days of the Wit, Words, and Wisdom of Larry Winget” By Larry Winget. One of his quotes is:
“All talk is just that: talk. All the words written on these pages are just that: words. If you want things to get better, take action. Don’t just talk about it. Don’t just read and think about it. Do it.”
Dave and I have talked about having a stay-cation for a long time. Several weeks ago we finally decided to do more than just talk about it. We made the decision to cross off an entire week and not schedule any appointments: one full week of NOTHINGNESS. Oh, the two calendar pages for this week look so awesome in their blankness. Dave’s been working hard in the yard since the snow has melted. I have so many restrictions on my time because of all the self imposed activities I choose to do. So we decided to “DO IT” rather than just talk about it or read about others who have done it.
But…there are always those little sneaky activities that shouldn’t be ignored such as EXERCISE! We choose to look at exercise as part of our essential living plan; sort of like eating and sleeping. There are just some things our bodies needs each day and we have no desire to deprive ourselves of those needs. Dave has two commitments each week that involve other’s lives and he chose not to ignore his commitments. However, for the most part we will be on our own together. We have some ideas fermenting but we will simply take each day as it arrives and then decide what, when, and where to go as the ideas present themselves.
Will I write a blog? As of right now I am uncertain. If I do not write the blog I have personally committed to write a daily poem in my journal. Does that mean I will publish each day? I don’t know about that either. I guess it just depends upon my day. So, please do not be concerned if my blogs/and or poems are erratic. This entire week may just become an ERRATIC WEEK! Sounds good to me! However, just so you know, the word “erratic” is not a word I would choose to describe myself. But I have decided to go with the flow, at least for this week.
THE “ERRATIC” WEEK AHEAD
Kathleen Martens
May 5, 2017
http://www.visionsofpoetry.com
Just the WORD “erratic”
Has a negative sound.
It is not a description
I want hanging around.
Unpredictable is one meaning,
And who wants to be that?
Impulsive, volatile, and fickle,
And that’s the simple fact.
Another meaning is unreliable:
Brash; variable; and defective.
Which to me would mean
Most likely ineffective.
Inconsistent is another word
Which points to being conflicting,
Another trait I’d rather not
Have as my depicting.
Erratic too means changeable,
Unstable and unsettled.
Not a description I would want;
I’d rather be called quite able.
But this week will be different.
I’ve decided to let my hair down!
Wearing a perpetual smile
Without nary a hint of frown.
I will choose to be variable;
Allowing what will be will be.
And live out this entire week
Being footloose and fancy free!
Thank You God for the luxury of doing very little for one week.
Thank You God for directing our paths with week.
Thank You Father for the gift of time.
GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU!
Friday May 5 2017 LIVING MY DREAM
Friday May 5 2017 LIVING MY DREAM
Dreams are different for each person. My dream might possibly be someone else’s nightmare and vice versa. But, I must say, I am living my dream. This is a topic I have touch on in the past but it became an apparent reality once again today.
The topic of old age came up this morning when discussing the issue of my droopy eyes. Dave seemed to think my eye was swollen but I think I finally convinced him it was not swollen, rather just droopy on the outside edge due to aging. Oh, the topics that could be heard in the privacy of an older couple’s dressing room! They have certainly changed from years gone by.
Well, Dave supposed (out loud) that we are just growing older together. I responded with the reminder that growing old with my husband was the dream I carried in my heart when I walked down the aisle toward him on our wedding day. He peeked around the bathroom door and gave me a big smile and said, “Well, I guess you are living your dream!” And so I am! And there is no better dream to live than the one I am living now.
As the older generations pass away there are fewer and fewer people who can acclaim so many years with one spouse. For some I suppose a long marriage could reflect years of trouble and turmoil; for us (according to me) it has been delightful and fulfilling. And today I am truly living my dream.
When Dave holds me in his arms he is still the young groom, full of strength and vitality. When he smiles at me a surge of warmth floods my soul. When he kisses me (yes, we still kiss) it still causes me to get the goose bumps, and to know that we have honored our wedding vows puts the icing on the cake of my 44 year old dream. And the best part is that my heart still smiles deep within just knowing he loves me in return.
When one loses a spouse I often wonder if the pain is greater because no longer is there someone on which to lavish love upon, or if the greater pain is the absence of no longer having love lavished upon one’s self from another. I try to never take Dave’s love for granted. I cherish every day and every hour I live with this man. And I thank God that I have lived two wonderful dreams in my life; the first, living long enough to raise our children, and the second, to grow old with the groom of my first marriage.
LIVING MY DREAM
Kathleen Martens
May 5, 2017
http://www.visionsofpoetry.com
The spark of life in my lover’s eyes
Has never dimmed throughout the years.
And my love for him has only grown
Through laughter and through tears.
He’s the light of my life, comfort of my heart,
My earthly gift from God above.
From the moment I laid eyes on him
I knew he was the man I loved.
Through the year love has blazed
Regardless through joy or sorrow.
We made a choice to stay true
In all of our tomorrows.
And time has passed, and we are old
Regardless how young we may act.
Sometimes it’s just fun to be a kid again,
And that’s a plain old fact.
We need more help and struggle a bit
But we are there by each other’s side.
And I pray for the continuation of my dream
That together we’ll always abide.
Things are changing and we’re a bit slower
And words sometimes lost in the air.
And we don’t even look the same
With graying and thinning hair.
But when I look through my dim vision
I see my man so crystal clear.
He is still the man of my dreams
And I always want him near.
Young love is passionate and hot as fire
But “old” love is better still,
For it has been forged through the flames
And overflowing in strength, the heart it fills.
Thank You God for my husband. Never let me take him for granted.
When life seems to be more than you can bear, take time to count your blessings. You may find your blessing is snoring right there beside you.
GOD BLESS YOU!
P.S. And it isn’t even our anniversary! That happens next month! 44 YEARS!!!!
Thursday May 4 2017 A MELODY BORN IN THE HEART
Thursday May 4 2017 A MELODY BORN IN THE HEART
A MELODY BORN IN THE HEART
Kathleen Martens
May 4, 2017
http://www.visionsofpoetry.com
Plethora of sunshine,
Blue skies and skittering clouds.
A recipe for a heartfelt day,
Especially without the crowds.
Arboretum in all her glory
Beckoned me to come.
I knew in my heart of hearts
My senses would have fun.
Oh to see with actual praise
The beauty that God portrays,
The divine of His creation
Arranged in artful display.
Delicate scent of lilac blooms
Await the eager sense
Of the olfactory;
Unhampered by a fence.
The sound of breath
In whispered wind,
Stir passion in the heart,
Of lover who is friend.
To touch elaborate petals
Fragile as delicate lace,
Then to speak in flowing tongue
No sense has been erased.
All senses awed in wonder
That what meets the eye,
Sight and sound, touch and taste
And fragrance from the sky.
What sweetness is imbibed
Wafting on gentle breeze?
Delicate offering of nature’s choice
That the heart doth seize.
And the soul fully engaged,
Connects to nature’s tune.
A melody born in the heart,
Dancing under morning’s moon.
My day began at 5:00 a.m. My first stop was my 7:00 a.m. dentist appointment; second stop was two hours at the gym; the third was a scheduled barber appointment at 11:30 a.m. I had an hour and fifteen minutes between the last two appointments and I felt the beckoning of the Arboretum calling my name.
The sky was blue, beautiful thin white clouds wafted overhead, the breeze was gentle, and the air was brisk. Perfect slant of sunlight, no crowds, and beautiful blossoms; what more could I want! My car effortlessly drove the mile or two down the road as if it were on a planned excursion. I set my timer to alert me as when to leave for my hair appointment, took out my iPhone camera and commenced catching the light. It was as if my heart was floating in a surreal paradise. Some of the trees were still flowering and the lilac blossoms were just beginning to open. When I arrived at the arboretum parking area and opened the car door I immediately smelled the fragrance of purple, pink, and white lilacs. And believe it or not, they each have very distinct aromas. I touched and tasted, viewed, and heard the quiet rustling of wind caressing the branches. Such peace! Such beauty!
God, I thank You for the beauty I experienced this morning.
Thank You God for the tug in my heart which caused me to turn my car toward the arboretum.
Thank You for serenity.
Thank You for the amazing beauty of Your creation.
Thank You Lord that I can see, touch, taste, smell, and hear that which surrounds me.
I especially thank You Lord that you have opened my heart to experience that which you have created.
HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY!
GOD BLESS YOU
Wednesday May 3 2017 STEP BY STEP
Wednesday May 3 2017 STEP BY STEP
STEP BY STEP
Kathleen Martens
May 3, 2017
http://www.visionsofpoetry.com
It’s almost bedtime
And my blog is not written
Because with my MAC
I have become smitten.
Remember my love affair
With my screen and keys,
I can now do things
My eyes see.
I can follow the map
Of lists and clicks,
And what I’ve learned
In my brain now sticks.
Step by step
I learn something new,
And my understanding
Gives me more to do.
And time passes
Ever so quickly,
And this new computer
Not quite so prickly.
So I am practicing
As so to improve,
And my working on photos
Is going quite smooth.
So forgive my lack
Of words to say.
It is probably a relief
For you this day.
I’m enjoying my trip
All over again,
As I organize and improve
Photos of my friends.
A few little tricks
And enhancement is there,
And memories are wonderful
And saved with care.
So good night my friends
I will bid my adieu,
The hours of this day
Are just too few.
Thank You God for the knowledge my brain can still retain.
Thank You God for this beautiful day of sunshine.
Thank You Lord for all Your bountiful blessings of both rain and sunshine.
GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU!
Tuesday May 2 2017 WOW! WHAT A MARVELOUS DAY!
Tuesday May 2 2017 WOW! WHAT A MARVELOUS DAY!
Yesterday while taking a class at the Apple Store I asked a few questions regarding my computer and mentioned to the staff how my computer doesn’t always have the best manners. It was suggested by one of the workers that I should have a ONE TO ONE session over the telephone so as to disarm my most recently purchased computer of all her tantrums. The store set up a telephone appointment for me this morning at 8:00 a.m. to talk to one of their Apple technicians. I had no idea the value of such an appointment. I share this information with my readers who are trying to master the new Apple computers. I find mine to be quite a bit different from my old user friendly MAC.
And one telephone call later my life has been changed! I was about to boot the little monster out the door and regress back to ages past by reverting back my ancient (10 year old) computer. But, I am now quite happy because Apple Care came to the rescue. Perchance you may not know this bit of information, I would like to inform you that if you own an Apple computer of any kind (iphone, iPad, desktop, laptop, or iMax, free tutelage is provided. And if there is any other “i” thing available you would probably be eligible to receive that service also.
I have now taken many classes at the store, but I sometimes can’t follow because I am taking notes, and then when I look up I didn’t see the sequence of clicks and don’t know where to find the places to click. Remember, getting old causes one to slow down a bit. At least that is what I blame it on. Since I have taken several one hour classes at the store I think I prepared for the ONE TO ONE session I had today. Though Apple does not take control of the computer the teacher can join you by seeing your screen and giving you promptings with THEIR RED ARROW that skitters around where it is needed. I loved it.
Repetition (and notes) are my way of being able to retain information. While on the phone I was able to luxuriate in doing just that. My assistant was extremely patient and always helpful. Her little red arrow was like a magic wand opening up my eyes. I must admit I haven’t tried doing anything by myslf since she signed off but I want things to percolate a bit and then challenge myself to do it on my own. One good thing is that I will still be taking classes (sometimes signing up for the same class more than once) until I understand this computer even better than I did my last one.
When all was said and our goodbyes were done I felt exhilarated! I felt as if I had met a new friend; not only my computer but with the technician as well. Though I may never meet her, today she unselfishly offered me a part of herself by sharing her knowledge with me. I can never thank her enough. It’s a big world and it takes a lot of people to make it go around. Today I thank my latest angel for coming into my life with such patience and understanding to help an older brain grab on, and hold on, to the information which had eluded it! And that brain would be mine!
WOW! WHAT A MARVELOUS DAY
Kathleen Martens
May 2 2017
http://www.visionsofpoetry.com
Wow, what a day! In an excellent way.
I fell in love! And with the help of a cloud above
I am now aware! Because of Apple-Care
A new romance kindled, which had dwindled.
I now see light, which was out of sight.
Help desperately needed and Apple-Care heeded.
So much I learned of what I yearn.
It made me jolly, due to the help of Holly!
What an amazing gift! Without a rift
She filled up the hole of what I didn’t know.
Courage she gave as she trundled brave!
Many thanks to Apple care from whom she was paid.
There is no way I can adequately portray
With words stated because she is so highly rated!
Her knowledge and help, was so well dealt!
Her teaching was awesome, causing my heart to blossom.
Perhaps technology is now tops in the “OLOGYS”!
She has opened my eyes, my limit the skies!
Info linked together and hopefully won’t sever
Until I can do it again, and embrace my computer as friend.
Thank You God for sending the perfect angel into my life today!
Thank You for all the unseen gifts I receive each day from You!
Thank You God for exclamations marks because I really needed them today!
GOD BLESS YOU! I PRAY YOU HAVE A MARVELOUS DAY TOO!
P.S. Thanks little angel down there in Texas!
P.S.S. God, thank you for telephones.
Monday May 1, 2017 FROM THE INSIDE OUT
Monday May 1 2017 FROM THE INSIDE OUT
FROM THE INSIDE OUT
Kathleen Martens
May 1 2017
From the inside out
Without a doubt
This person of “I”
Is mighty dry.
The older I become
Moisture seems to run.
Regardless lotion’s lather
Dry is the rather.
Waterless eyes
Is my cry,
And arid skin
To my chagrin.
Mouth is puckered
When I’m tuckered
And when I awake
Water I take.
Other places as well
Where, I will not dwell,
Just say moisture is needed,
And must be heeded.
From even my nail beds
Moisture seems bled,
And oh my feet
I must daily treat.
And my scalp
Needs some help
And probably my brain
Has some strain.
I do what I can.
Salt I ban.
I lick my lips,
As water I sip.
No matter the amount
It seems not to count
Because it goes right through
And I must drink anew.
When getting old
One must be bold
As we seem to be doomed
To shrivel like a prune.
So I have eye salve to use in my eyes each night. I must use an artificial saliva rinse for my mouth which I use several times a night to keep my mouth membranes from adhering to each other. I use a lip balm on my lips. I use no makeup but I slather a thick cream on my face morning and night. I have moisturizer for my scalp, special care products just for my feet and lotions for my hands and body. I eat as healthy as I possibly can. Even with all the fruits and vegetables I consume I am still dry. If my outside looks like it does I wonder what my innards must look like. I KNOW! I JUST HAD A LIGHT BULB MOMENT! Maybe, just maybe, I AM BECOMING A PRUNE because I certainly eat enough of them each day. At least they keep me moving!
NOTE: The above is 101 for: BECOMING OLDER. It’s just one of many curriculums!
Thank You God that I have the privilege of being older.
HAVE A WONDERFUL FIRST DAY OF MAY!
I smile as I think back to the time when each May 1st the teachers would have the classrooms circle around a pole on the playground with colorful streamers as we children would go under and over with our crepe streamers weaving a beautiful design down the pole. For some reason May 1st was always a day of celebration at school but I never really understood why. Or perhaps if I did understand it I just don’t remember it now. (A future lesson in 101 for BECOMING OLDER)!
Sunday Sabbath April 30 2017 GOODBYE APRIL
Sunday Sabbath April 30 2017 GOODBYE APRIL
THE HEART HAS HEARD
Kathleen Martens
April 30, 2017
Significant time
Ticking away,
Not only the close
Of another day,
But a month
Comes to an end,
And before we know it
The year will end.
Once it is gone
It never again exists
Except in photos
We carry in fist.
Memories we cherish
Yet some not made
And if we are careless
Photos disappear or fade.
Pictures may vanish
For a plethora of reasons,
And our past events
May fade through the seasons.
But the greatest loss
Are the memories we don’t make
Because of the effort
It may take.
The now is the present,
We mustn’t squander it away.
When we tuck children in
We have one less day.
We should make moments count
As we live each hour.
Don’t allow “life”
To steal our power.
Be not too busy
To make moments count
Because the ones squandered
Seem to mount.
And children grow up
And we are alone.
An occasional visit,
Or moments on phone.
But nothing counts
Like living “real-time”.
We must enjoy the NOW
Before age confines.
Speak love in action
If we can’t say it in word;
However love is expressed
The heart has heard.
Thank You God for the rain we had today.
Thank You for Your peace in my heart.
Thank You that I have lived and enjoyed this beautiful month of April.
GOD BLESS YOU ON THIS BEAUTIFUL RAINY SABBATH!
Saturday April 29 2017 PERHAPS WE SHOULD ASK THIS QUESTION
Saturday April 29 2017 PERHAPS WE SHOULD ASK THIS QUESTION
PERHAPS WE SHOULD ASK THIS QUESTION?
Kathleen Martens
April 29, 2017
http://www.visionsofpoetry.com
This day holds the hour
In which we are living.
In this precious moment
What makes life worth living?
Have we spoken one kind word
Another can tuck away?
Have we caused a smile
On someone’s face today?
Have we lifted another’s name
In prayer to our Father?
Or are we so busy
That with others we do not bother?
What is the purpose
For the existence of each man?
Is it to give or take,
Or do for others when you can?
Perhaps we should ask this question
Of ourselves each and every day;
What today can we do
So this world’s a better place to stay?
GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS YOU!
I HOPE YOU HAVE HAD A WONDERFUL DAY!
I HAD AN AWESOME DAY!!! I learned something new! More about that later!
Thursday April 27 2017 AND THEN I AM DONE!!!
Thursday April 27 2017 AND THEN I AM DONE!!!
“We can do anything we want to if we stick to it long enough.” Quote by Helen Keller
I was wondering what to write when I came across the above quote. I’m in a quandary as I need to leave for an appointment soon, write my poem before I go, and then ultimately return and focus on the project I have been working on this the last year: THE ALBUM.
In my craft room awaits the last six pages that are laid out and waiting for their design. AND THEN I AM DONE! WRONG!
Then I begin writing on all the pages as to who is who in each photo. AND THEN I AM DONE? WRONG AGAIN!
Then I plan to take a digital photo of each page which in itself will take quite awhile. AND THEN I AM DONE? NOPE, NOT YET!
Then I must slip each page into a clear sleeve so they are protected in the album. WHEW! THEN I MUST SURLY BE DONE! WRONG AGAIN!
When all the pages are ready to be put in the three-ring-binders I must then update 5 biographies of my mother’s siblings and mount all 13 biographies and insert them in strategic order. AND FINALLY I’M DONE??? NOPE!
One last details remains after that. Well…actually two: one small, one big. The last detail is to design a title page. AND THEN…the most time consuming of all…DELIVERING IT IN PERSON TO MY SISTER FAITH IN CALIFORNIA!!!!
AND THEN I AM DONE!!!
And the clock is ticking. Helen Keller was right! “We Can do anything we want if we stick to it long enough!” We do it one step at a time; one hour, one day, one year. We just need to stick to it!
AND SAY GOODBYE
Kathleen Martens
April 27, 2017
A dream is but a dream
But a timetable sets the goal in place.
And the end for me will be in sight
When I see the smile on my sister’s face.
What a journey it has been,
Yet I still have a mountain to climb
Because it is not done, until it is delivered!
And that will be so sublime.
I can’t say it wasn’t tedious,
Though it was long hours of fun for me
Because I realize I will have left behind
A beautiful treasure for others to see.
I will never regret the hours
As the weeks seemed to fly.
I was able to cherish these old photos,
Enjoy their memories and say good bye.
And I just realized I’m still not done
Until I’ve created one last page,
Adding the story of why this album was built
That it go forth in future age.
Thank You God for the opportunity to be able to do this keepsake for my sister.
Thank You God for my strength each day.
HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY!
GOD BLESS YOU
Wednesday April 26 2017 INFORMATION DAY
Wednesday April 26 2017 INFORMATION DAY
Yesterday was a day of accomplishment. I finally actually carried through with something I have wanted to do for the past two years. When I left on my trip two years ago my husband suggested I take his I Phone with me. So I did. Well, a month or so into the trip it gave up its ghost and died as I was driving into Denver Colorado. A month-long bevy of trip photos were lost, or so I thought. Even the Apple store told me they could not be captured. Fortunately for me, I was heading to see a friend and her husband is a program designer and an unbelievable IT guy. He used his account to somehow recover my photos. It took several days for this to transpire but he did it. I bought a new I Phone while in Denver and he was able to download everything he removed from my card onto the new phone. I suppose if I had made a big enough stink that the I Phone store may have been able to do it for a fee. I thank God that I was able to recover the photos from the phone because I find that those are the photos that capture life between the poses.
When I arrived home from my trip in July of 2015 I purchased a new IMac, as my older Macs could not support the new technology of my new camera. I’ve had the “new” IMac for two years now and have just recently had the opportunity to take time to use it. And boy howdy, was I ever lost in the maze of all that I did not know. I decided to take time to attend classes and workshops in order to become more literate with the new technology. The classes are available through the Apple Store. I became so comfortable working on my old equipment because it was easier to do what I knew how to do than it was to take time to learn something new. Hmmm….I wonder if that has anything to do with the aging process?
I have decided I WILL NOT GIVE UP that which I want to learn just because it takes me a bit longer to learn it and retain it. As long as I can I will gratefully learn what I am able.
Now, the information I refer to in the title of this blog:
Here is the scoop about the Apple Store and the classes they offer. Are you aware that as an I Phone owner you can sign up at the Apple Store and take all kinds of classes to learn how to use your I Phone? Your little I Phone is like a small computer at your fingertips but it has a bit different personality than the big MACS. I am tired of not being able to use what is available to me when I need its services. That which I choose to use; I do so purposefully, and carefully. By that I mean: I do not allow the phone to overtake my living my life in reality. I do not search face book or post to it though I have a presence on face book per chance I may need it someday for a special purpose. I give out my cell number to very few people because it does not have clear reception where I live. When I am traveling, unless I use my I Phone for an emergency, or as my GPS, my phone is tucked in my purse. When it rings I only answer known friends and family to see if it is urgent. If I am in situations when I cannot be disturbed I simply turn my phone off. Remember, you and I are the ones that control the phone. It only controls us and gobbles up our time if we allow it to do so. I long ago quit allowing my pocket genius to control my life.
A second bit of information for you is that if you own another MAC computer of any kind you are also eligible to sign up for classes at the Apple Store. I have taken several courses this week (two yesterday) and I am amazed at how trained the Apple personnel are. I have learned so much useful information. What a shame to buy something so expensive, that has so much potential, and not take the opportunityto learn all you can. Remember, knowing how to use your I Phone and Mac computer with expertise can save you much time and exasperation.
And the best part; all of these classes and work sessions are free! However, you must sign up online in order to schedule the appointment. When I first began using Macs about 15 years ago I had to pay for the sessions. As technology changes, so the classes change, as does the need to learn more. It is great that I no longer need to pay for the sessions. Somehow taking advantage of what the Apple Store offers causes me to feel a little bit better about spending so much for something so small.
AS TECHNOLOGY PROGRESSES
Kathleen Martens
April 26, 2017
http://www.visionsofpoetry.com
Technology today can be such a beast,
It changes so rapidly and does not cease.
It’s like a worm that silently sneaks in
Becoming a giant you must conquer and win.
And oh those changes seem to never stop.
And then when it seems I’ve finally reached the top
Something new comes along, frustrating me more.
The faster I peddle, the less I score.
So to stay on task I fervently seek
That knowledge and wisdom my mind will keep.
In order to battle this old-age brain
I refuse to be lazy, and do my best to retain.
As technology progresses, if we refuse to grow
We wake up in a world that we no longer know.
And though that may happen all too soon
Until it does, I’ll set my sight on the moon.
Thank You God that You encourage me to strive with perseverance.
Thank You God for the desire to learn.
Thank You too Lord for the lovely rain You pour upon our land.
Thank You for the delicious soup I had for breakfast.
I am on an adventure today with two long-time friends; lunch and St. Vincent de Paul! Our favorite place to shop!
Have a wonderful day!
GOD BLESS YOU!
Tuesday April 25 2017 SPRING’S BOUQUET
Tuesday April 25 2017 SPRINGS’S BOUQUET
SPRING’S BOUQUET
Kathleen Martens
April 25, 2017
Evening light dapples new growth
In silence of coming night.
Bringing alive purple and pink
Peering through foliage tight.
In somber reverence
My heart stood still
Filling up new memories
To remember at will.
A magical touch of early Spring,
As if stardust brushed the leaves.
Fronds of ferns of delicate lace,
Their beauty my eyes see.
A cobbled path winds its way
Meandering through bows and ferns.
In quiet stillness a settled presence
For which my heart doth yearn.
In bridal white trilliums blossom,
Fragile… pure…divine…
Bowed as if in silent humbleness
In thanks for being created so fine.
Their dazzling brilliance causes my smile
At the delight they offer so free.
Their glory is, that they bloom
For the two or three days we see.
And bluebells ring in silent song
That only the heart can hear.
In royal majesty decorate the earth
Like bits of God scattered near.
And bleeding hearts oversee all
As with an ever watchful eye,
Robed in pink with drops of lace
Catching light from the evening sky.
And bright red tulips join the dance
Of Spring’s awesome debut.
A presentation of heartfelt love
From God, to me and you.
Thank You God for seasons!
Thank You God that my favorite season is always the one I’m experiencing.
Thank You God that You are such an awesome Creator.
Thank You God for the beauty of today.
HAVE A GREAT SPRING WHEREVER YOU MAY LIVE!
GOD BLESS YOU.
P.S. Remember to open your eyes to what is around you!
Visions of Poetry 