ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Today, I am thankful for trees – glorious plants that give us shade in the summer, cause us to sneeze occasionally, reach their beautiful limbs as if calling out to God, fill with glorious color before they finally fade and die. The watercolor painting today is called, “Greensleeves.” Like the seasons of our lives, trees start from a tiny seed, grow into a living plant to be nurtured throughout the length of its days. In the human experience, we can see how everything in God’s creation goes through different seasons. When we’re just beginning, we’re somewhat helpless and in need of care. The same happens when we reach our final years. Our bodies become withered and wrinkled. Our skin cells no long reproduce We shrivel up and die. The leaves have almost all fallen from the trees in my neighborhood. They now reside on the lawns and driveways waiting to be raked or remain as mulch for the next growing season. For humanity, life doesn’t have to end when we take our last breath. God has provided for a rebirth that will take us to paradise. It’s His greatest gift to us. One that cost Him everything, because He loves us so much. The perfect Son of God gives us that hope and promise. Through His life, death and resurrection, we can be sure of the same outcome.

Morning rain softly caresses the falling leaves of fire and gold.
A gentle breeze tosses unsuspecting seeds to another place.
The days grow shorter and with anticipation of the icy cold.
Our pace grows faster as we strive to win the race.

We should slow down and treasure every sumptuous flavor
That autumn sets upon our bountiful dinner table.
Apple cider and pumpkin pies, a touch of cinnamon to savor,
Will fill our senses to the brim. more often than they’re able.

We should slow down and treasure every sumptuous flavor
That autumn sets upon our bountiful dinner table.
Apple cider and pumpkin pies, a touch of cinnamon to savor,
Will fill our senses to the brim. more often than we’re able.