GIRDERS & FACTORY SILOS . . .

Posted on August 24, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

These two watercolor sketches were painted when we lived in Northeast Minneapolis. Paul found beauty in everything, even the structures that filled the cityscapes. There is a certain charm to paintings like this – a bit of nostalgia – a different world from what we now enjoy.  When I wrote this poem, it was a day in which I ventured into the city to visit a dear friend from my past.  A man who left an indelible mark on me when I returned to college.  This professor taught me not to be afraid of taking risks – to have confidence in my abilities – to think positively. We all have those in our lives who seem to point out our strengths to us.

City within a darkened world, has beauty all its own,

The wires that lace throughout the space, the litter lying there,

The sounds of box cars hooking up, a place where crime is sown,

Where homeless search the garbage cans, to find a snack to share.

Where vagrants sleep while raccoons watch, to find their own sweet snack,

To dine on other’s leftovers, seems common to them both,

The train rails screech as cars are joined, they thunder and they crack,

The large, abandoned buildings stand, as sentries without growth.

Still skies above are clear and bright, towering over the scene as they dance,

They fill with clouds of discontent, soon darkness falls again,

Some stay awake throughout the night just waiting for a chance,

To try again to make a life, they jump a moving train.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, courage, Inspiration, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

ARE YOU HIDING?

Posted on August 23, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

Today’s painting was done at the Hudson Plein Air Event at the Seasons Gallery in 2017. This year two of Paul’s paintings are on exhibit until the end of August. This one depicts a lovely home surrounded by a beautiful garden. There are times when the beauty of those places outshines what lies within. I’m sure the house is just as lovely.

We could look at our physical selves in the same way. We try to conform with current fashion trends. We apply skin care products to make the years disappear. We get a makeover. Then we hide our true self behind all those trappings. God created us each with different gifts. Each one of us is unique, no matter what we look like. We are greatly loved by Him.

It’s time to evaluate who you are.

God created you and knew you before you were born.

He watched you become a human being with a heart and soul.

Through His living water, He gave you a new birth that would cover you throughout your life.

Through His suffering and death on a cross, you are redeemed.

Your life will never end, even when you die.

You are strong and courageous.

You have a free will.

You have a forever friend who will never leave you.

God endowed you with so many gifts that are just waiting to be opened.

You may find them through training or discovery.

Use those gifts to praise God, to lift Him up, to get in touch with Him.

With God, all things are possible.

Even those that you’ve convinced yourself you don’t deserve.

You are a child of God!

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, SELF ESTEEM, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments

AUGUST ENDINGS . . .

Posted on August 22, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

One more for today. August brings thoughts of the end of summer. The great American Get Together is now underway. The State Fair always signals the change of a season. Solomon in all his glory, talked about the seasons and how each one served a purpose – a time to reap and a time to sow. Days pass quicker when we grow older. Our datebooks are filled with doctor appointments, dental, orthopedics, neurologists, urologists, and any other kind of ologist you can think of. We’re also trying to keep track of time, but often have to ask what day it is. It isn’t necessarily because we’re addled. It’s simply because our brains have gone beyond the expiration date.

Summer is one of our shorter seasons, but we try hard to pack as much into those three months as possible. Take a little time to sit back and enjoy the change. Soon the landscape will be filled with glorious colors and crisp, fresh air. Until then just breathe.

Summer days are quickly fleeting,  Soon the air will shift and blow,

Heat gives way to colder weather, and we’ll see the white of snow,

While we wallow in the beauty of these last remaining days,

We can store up tons of memories in the morning misty haze,

As the flower’s breath is shortened, as the days have lost their length,

Soak in every single second, of the sun’s most glorious strength.

As the blooms arrayed in glory, soon will wither and will die,

Life is short but doesn’t waiver, when you’re in the Master’s eye,

He will carry us through seasons, beyond death we will endure.

Death has no dominion oe’r us, our redemption is assured.

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, wisdom | 2 Comments

FREAKY, FUNNY FRIDAY – LIVING IN A FUNERAL HOME . . .

Posted on August 22, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

In looking for an image to match the title of this post I came across this cartoon about Humpty Dumpty. It really has nothing to do with living in a funeral home, but I thought it was funny. Living in a funeral home is kind of an oxymoron, but there are many families that do so. In fact, many are dying to get in there. But seriously folks, even though this has been a rough year for me so far, I like to think that I’ve maintained my sense of humor. The continuity of this story is going to be interrupted by a virtual doctor’s visit, so if I go in one than more direction, please understand.

As most of you know, my husband passed away on January 1, 2025. He was ill for a long time, but enjoyed a wonderful life, a great family and friends beyond measure. So, I’ve been keeping a virtual record of some of his paintings along with poetry I’ve written. The time of mourning has been filled with activities to keep my mind alert and functioning. For the past month or so, I’ve been pretty inactive, thus I’ve had more time to think and remember. There are so many funny stories pertaining to the life of Paul Boecher. The one that stands out was his ability to laugh and make other people laugh. He was born into a fairly well to do family. His dad was a funeral director and the family lived in the upstairs living quarters. Thus that combination made way for hilarious stories that live on and probably will for a long time.

When we were first dating, I would have the pleasure of viewing one of their latest customers, to see what a good job his dad did in his work. This didn’t impress me in the least, but we managed to spend a lifetime together in spite of it. He would talk about how he and his sister would play hide and seek in the mortuary when it wasn’t being used for a funeral. There were countless places to hide. Empty caskets, the embalming room, the organ room. Yes, there was an organ room, but it wasn’t filled with human organs, just the one that was played during a funeral. The basement of this humongous house was used to store folding chairs which would be handed up through a trap door leading to one of the areas used for seating. It also was a playground for Paul and his sister, Jeanne.

Many parties were held in that spacious area during our high school years. When it wasn’t being used for that purpose, a biology lab was established in the laundry room. Mice and snakes were stored in the window well. Paul was required to feed these critters and not to forget to close the window after doing so. One day, while a funeral was in progress, he forgot. Snakes slithered into the “smoking room” where a group of women were chatting. That ended the biology lab. It went on to become a science lab, where the use of certain chemicals could have easily blown up the entire business.

It’s a good thing Paul didn’t go into the funeral business. No one would’ve taken him seriously. His parents saw his talents led to a different area of study, which took him to the University of Illinois and the Chicago Art Institute. There a whole new adventure transpired.

BTW I had my virtual appointment. I have bronchitis and need antibiotics and prednisone. I was on the same regimen almost six months ago. Should be better soon.

Posted in aging, Humor, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , | 8 Comments

THROUGH MY WINDOW . . .

Posted on August 21, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

One year ago today, I decided to write the following poem because it was Poet’s Day. I’m repeating it today for TBT and adding a watercolor painting of a lovely sunflower that often blooms at this time of year. It was the last home we looked at after viewing at least 200 more. Paul actually got down on his knees when we finished the tour. I’m not sure if it was a sense of relief to finally find the right one -or if his knees gave out – or most likely he was thanking God for making this particular house available to us. The house was built in 1885. It needed repairs, much like we did. We were made for each other.

Two years ago, we were looking at senior living housing. The cost was prohibitive, so we put that idea on hold. When we sat down to look at our options. We had equity in our home, but certainly not enough to keep us going for the years to come. Our current house payment was way below what it would cost us to move. Weighing the pros and cons, we decided to remain in our current living space for a while.

We were able to manage until he passed away in January of this year. I could still work on my garden and Paul could continue painting in his little outdoor studio. We spent the last year of his life filling every second of every waking hour together. We’d take little road trips to enjoy the beauty of nature only a few miles from home. We’d stop at roadside diners and have lunch or pack a picnic lunch to share in a wooded area. We’d stretch our legs as much as we could and talked about memories shared in a lifetime together.

As I look out the window that greets me each day, I am truly blessed and thankful. My grandson, who was born in Minnesota and loved his “hometown,” decided to move in with me. He loved the place he grew up in and wanted to return to find employment here. I know Paul would be happy about this arrangement. He’d probably say something like, “See, God’s got this.” I am not alone. I feel safe. I am happy.

A journey through a crystal pane of light and glorious sun,

Separated by a wall that’s conceived within my mind,

A longing leads my heart into a place where I can run,

A place to hide, to bear my soul, a place I’ll never find.

I wander through this wilderness, surrounded by my fears,

I close the world outside my door and let no others in,

The days go by and swiftly ebb, though dreams may dry my tears,

I will not capture peace until the Lord comes back again.

In His magnificent glory, He’ll cut right through the clouds,

His angels will encircle Him, the saints are at His side,

They sing their loud alleluias and shout His name out loud,

My fears will melt, my heart will soar, with Him I’ll now abide.

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, ART & POETRY BY THE BOECHERS, life after death, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , | Comments Off on THROUGH MY WINDOW . . .

THE HOOD . . .

Posted on August 20, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & FICTION BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Everything Paul painted came with a story. That’s why we were so compatible. He would create lovely works in which only the subject matter would stir the imagination. I would find several possibilities for stories or poetry to go along with them. When I first saw this painting, my thoughts went to the urban dictionary definition of the word, HOOD. It is likened to a ghetto or a location where thieves and thugs hung out. It could also refer to some kind of covering for the head which was attached to a sweatshirt or jacket. The possibilities are endless for a setting like this, but this is my interpretation for today

It was a serene place, with silence broken only by the sound of a bird or an insect humming. Filled with leaves as a headdress, the trees almost talked as you walked through the stillness. If only they could talk, it would be interesting to know what they had to say. How many others came to this place with tears in their eyes? The sound of laughter could be heard too. Some would sit on this bench and converse for a while. Others would take a brief rest from a run. It was a refuge for her.

The word “HOOD” was printed on the top of the bench. A robin sat on the edge, catching his breath and thinking about his next stop. A couple walked hand in hand through the expanse, thinking about nothing but each other. An elderly woman came next, clutching her purse taking care with each step she took. It was an everyday part of her routine. She’d rise with the morning sun and thank Jesus for another day. Then she’d hobble to her bathroom, run a brush through her thick hair, brush her few remaining teeth and wash her face. She was a creature of habit. Every morning was the same. Each day was becoming so.

Time has a way of catching up with us as we age. There are times when there are never enough hours in a day. There are days that seem to fly by and ignore the numbers on a calendar. Days you can’t remember what day it is. The woman’s daily ritual always would include this place unless torrents of rain were falling or the frigid winter kept her inside. It was her place to talk with God, to plan her day, to pray. The prayers seemed to focus on her future, what was left of it and how she would survive without him. They’d spent a lifetime together. They met when very young. It was quite a while since he went to heaven, but her heart still yearned for his touch, his laughter, his crazy sense of humor. The deep sting of her loss remained in her heart, but each day became a little easier.

A gardener was tending the flowers and busily pulling weeds. He grabbed his broom and began to sweep in her direction. He had become a new friend as she sat there each day. They chatted for a while. He asked how she was doing. She told him that things were okay. They exchanged a few words as he continued to work. Memories began to fill her mind and escaped through her tears.

The gardener couldn’t help but notice. He sat beside her, took her hand and said,

“It’s going to get better, trust me. I’ve experienced a loss such as yours. We all have to face death someday – even you and me.” He handed her his handkerchief. She composed herself saying,

“I know you’re right. I’ve come to grips with that. I know that the day will come when I can join him.” She began to return the handkerchief, realizing it wasn’t the right thing to do. “I’ll wash it and bring it back tomorrow, if you like.”

“You can keep it.” He continued to sweep. “If you need a shoulder to cry on, I’ll be here tomorrow too.” She nodded her head as he swept the weeds and clippings in a bucket. “Have a good day, Mrs. Hood.”

The words were enough. She grabbed her purse and went home. She wouldn’t return the next day. Time stopped.

Posted in ART & FICTION BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER, grief, Inspiration, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | 1 Comment

WILDLIFE TOUR . . .

Posted on August 19, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

Life is constant motion,

A dance to the beat of a certain drum,

Paul loved doing watercolor paintings, because to him it was much like sketching. As with any medium, this particular one needs to be worked quickly, to catch the light, to find the negative spaces, to fill in the shadows for contrast. We also loved taking drives through the natural space of Sherburne Wildlife Refuge. It was not likely that we would see any deer, bear or wolves, but the waterfowl were in abundance. The swampy areas – the spots that had been burned on purpose to manage the land and create new growth – the ponds and lakes that beckoned geese, trumpeter swans, sandhill cranes, eagles, pelicans and an abundance of various ducks. All of this cut through a natural area that was not only a sanctuary, but a place to come and see. Traffic moves slowly and may come to a complete stop as folks get out of their cars to get a closer look or to take photographs.

Day to day living can entrap us. We feel smothered by the work of the day or the tension created by it. We need a place to change our perspective and to chill out. A simple drive in nature can soothe our souls. You don’t even have to take a long drive to get there. Make time this week to explore the beauty that God has blessed us with and thank Jesus for another day.

Hearts racing through life,

Never time to relax,

To contemplate,

To enjoy the motion itself,

Nature is filled with it too,

As the wind swirls endlessly through the forest,

As the wildlife scurry to gather food,

As the sounds of life explode all around,

Whispers from the Creator,

To stop for a moment,

To listen,

To watch,

To feel,

The rhythm of life,

To become enshrouded with it,

To live.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Life, sanctuary, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

HEIGHTS UNKNOWN . . .

Posted on August 18, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

Oh, to reach the heights of heaven. To travel through space and beyond. This has been a goal set by man many centuries ago. In the time of DaVinci and Michelangelo men were looking for ways to soar like the birds – to reach the places only known to God. We have slowly traveled through this realm. What took God only seconds to create, we have failed to achieve. So far, the only way to see heaven in all its majesty and glory is to die.

Death is impending for every living thing. Eternal life has been the pursuit of man since the beginning of time. There is only one way to conquer death, and we play no part in it. Jesus came to earth to conquer death and take away sin. Those who believe this, will surely see heaven. Man will continue to take baby steps but will never be able to compete with God.

That first glimmer of light at dawn – when God kisses the mountain tops,

Waking the life from pleasant sleep, refreshing with morning dew drops,

The stillness of morning’s first light, explodes like a heavenly sight,

The sky turns to a glorious blue , as daylight replaces the night.

Reflections of His perfect world, are seen in that early sunrise,

Creation sings at His command, becoming a sight for the eyes,

He captures the light of the sun, brings warmth to the earth with His breath,

He fulfills every earthly need, He protects us even in death.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, God, Heaven, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , | 1 Comment

CONFERRING WITH THE FLOWERS . . .

Posted on August 17, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

One of my favorite movies is “The Wizard of Oz.” I loved how the beginning started out in black and white. Clouds filled the air as the approaching cyclone was seen on the horizon. The wind swirled as trees, cows and other debris were ripped from the ground. The Wicked Witch blew through on her broom as Dorothy and Toto clung to each other in fear. When the storm is over, the scene turns into technicolor. Opening up a place that to Dorothy depicts a place not in Kansas anymore.

We are faced with the possibility of storms every day of our lives. In fact, I believe one is anticipated for today. The beautiful flowers of summer have taken a beating with an excessive amount of rain this month. Many were in full bloom a week ago are now struggling to hold up their heads. When the sun returns, we’ll see an abundance of brilliant color again. Those same blooms are preparing for their final curtain call before autumn arrives.

Things may seem black and white some days. Clouds cover the sun, causing darkness to fall during daylight. Some get depressed on days like this. Some relax and read. Some enjoy the sound of raindrops on the roof. Whatever you feel like when a storm approaches, you can be sure that the technicolor will show its face again. God is good in all kinds of weather.

A bouquet of vibrant colors, slowly fading in the hand,

Picked fresh this very morning, plucked from the moistened land,

Our lives are like those flowers – they slowly wilt and die,

We want to intercede somehow, but no matter how we try,

Our days on earth are numbered and our lives will surely end,

But even through our darkest days, we know we have a friend,

Our loving Savior, Jesus, shed precious blood for me,

He gave His life to save me and set my spirit free,

Life never ends with Jesus, His love endures the ages,

His Word sustains me every day within its splendid pages.

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, storms | Tagged , , , , , , | 1 Comment

SKETCHBOOK STUDIES . . .

Posted on August 16, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & INSPIRATION FROM PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

It started when he was a young lad, spending his summers at the lake.  He met an old Native American who was building a log cabin from scratch.  Each log was perfectly hewn. Paul pitched right in to help, but more so to learn all he could about outdoor life.  The native was eager to teach – how to whittle interesting creatures out of sticks – how to build a campfire, unlike the white man who builds a large fire and has to sit far from it – how to dig deep into the ground and build a natural refrigerator and many survival skills. This early exposure to nature helped shape Paul as a lover of the outdoors and a student of God’s creation. He used what he learned in his art. Most of his work is done in the multitude of grandiose locations provided by our God.

Paul was a diligent student of this world throughout his life. He would go on to teach his own son and grandsons the splendor within the world through his art as well as his many stories. A painting would often result from the many sketches of various plant life, animals, insects and terrains. Those sketches would be the studies for a future masterpiece. An artist needs to know their subject. When we really get close to the subject – touch, smell, see, taste and hear it – we enliven the senses to the glory that transfers onto a canvas. We can never really capture the true beauty, but certainly Paul knew his subject.

As I venture through the remainder of my own life, I am blessed to have this treasure of his art to remind me of Paul’s love of nature and especially his love for our God.

“Ask the beasts and they will teach you; the birds of the heavens and they will tell you; or the bushes of the earth and they will teach you; and the fish of the sea will declare to you. Who among these does not know that the hand of the LORD has done this? In His hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of all mankind.” Job 12:7-10

Posted in art & inspiration from the Boechers, Nature, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

FREAKY, FUNNY FRIDAY – I FELL ASLEEP AT THE MOVIES . . .

Posted on August 15, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

It’s time for my Freaky, Funny Friday post. You might consider this another true confession on my part. For some reason, my life tends to create funny situations without my even trying. The following is a story along with a poem that came to be after we attended the screening of “Lincoln,” with three grandkids. Those seats in the theatres today are like begging us to take a nap. The smells wafting from the snack bar, also turn the senses up to the max. I opted for some Mentos chocolate. I love movie theatre popcorn too but wanted to change things up a bit that day. That and the fact that my dentures don’t like popcorn much. Those factored into my dozing off during this highly powerful story of war, power, politics and tragedy.

It took about five minutes for the credits to roll across the screen. I recall seeing a few scenes of the Civil War taking place and bodies of the fallen lining the streets of some Southern town. Cannons boomed, guns fired, men screamed in pain and the screen exploded into mass chaos as I nodded off to dreamland. Not sure if it was the heated recliner or the fact that I was exhausted. Somehow, something triggered my immediate slumber. I may have woken up for a few of the scenes with Mary Todd Lincoln. Loved the costuming and the reality of the characters coming to life for just a moment. Then it was off to the neverland again.

When I finally woke from my slumber, I realized that I had slept during most of the movie. My grandchildren were quick to remind me. I put on my orange jacket and was ready to step out of the theatre. but realized that the box of Mentos had melted and was stuck to my jacket. The chocolate had created interesting little features on my coat. I looked like a Jack-o-lantern, with squished chocolate blobs all over. I didn’t feel too bad about missing the movie, but I sure wished I hadn’t fallen asleep on my Mentos.

I once went to a picture show,

With popcorn, treats and drink in tow,

Reclined in leather seat was I,

I thought I’d died and closed one eye,

The dreams of sleep soon overtook,

I fell asleep, felt like a schnook,

Around me bombs were falling fast,

I was part of a movie cast.

Guns were firing and blood ran red,

I realized I wasn’t in my bed,

When woken by a gentle nudge,

I reached around to find my fudge,

Melted into my jacket there,

Because of that infernal chair.

Posted in Humor, Poetry by Kathy Boecher, Uncategorized, writing | Tagged , , , , | 7 Comments

LOOKING BACK AT THIS WEEK . . .

Posted on August 15, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

The days seem to fly by when you get to be my age. Many run right into each other. How do you make the most of every last moment of your life? We can choose to stay busy. We can fill time with activities that help others through volunteer work. We might be fit enough to take a long walk in nature. We could spend more time in Bible study. We could slow down, like everyone says we should. We could wait to die. All of these options have run through my mind during the past several months. I have been blessed beyond measure because of a merciful God who looks beyond my faults and sees His only Son, Jesus. The perfect, sinless, Jesus, who took on the sins of the world.

Make each day a new one. Expect it to be imperfect. Smooth sailing doesn’t survive on dry land. Look back at the week which has now melted into the past. Every day is like a fresh start for each of us. Turn the trials you faced into blessings by seeing only the good that came from them. Friday is just another day, but it can be the beginning rather than the end.

As the morning light arises, on a valley green sublime,

Sun light kisses trees and branches, balancing the sands of time,

Though through danger I will wander, snares are set at every turn,

God is there to guard my footsteps, leading me to where I yearn,

Peaceful, green and tranquil landscapes, skies are filled with golden light,

Yet the heat from summer sunshine, hasn’t risen to full height,

Listening as He sits with me, as my heart to Him I spill,

Understanding all I ask for, promises to do His will,

When at last my days are finished, I will walk on streets of gold,

No more tears, no pain or sorrow, only peace and love untold,

The darkness of an evil world, purged with grace from God alone,

I’ll walk in valleys green with life, for heaven will be my home.

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Uncategorized, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , | 4 Comments

EACH PASSING DAY . . .

Posted on August 14, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

There's nothing like a day on the water to soothe a troubled heart or get in tune with God. Whether it means sailing a boat, going fishing, tanning on the beach, dangling your feet in the refreshment of it or going swimming - it's going to be a good day when you experience it. This watercolor shows the love Paul had for being on a lake. There are times when we just want to escape this life of problems and worry. It's so easy to set aside some time to do just that. Our lifespan is too short to deprive ourselves from the beauty of God's handiwork. Even when you think your time is too full of work, trials, hopelessness, too much busy, make time for just you and God.

When I grow weary from the weight of life,

When every step becomes a heavy strife,

There’s no relief, no respite for my load,

The path is full of obstacles untold,

Each pothole, crag and deep embedded crack,

Becomes too much for this old, weary back,

But God is there at every twist and turn,

To lift me up when heavy troubles churn,

To take the weight and soften every sting,

To wash away my tears and make me sing,

He’s with me everywhere I go,

Because my Jesus loves me, this I know!

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, God time, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF ME . . . A SHORT STORY

Posted on August 13, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

Picture this – an 83 year old woman bent on getting a long overdue task done – drives to the DMV to have her tabs renewed and the title put into her name. Since she doesn’t have a bill for them, she takes along the title and a death certificate just in case. She arrives at the license center, immediately finds a parking place and walks in expecting smooth sailing. Not so. She is met by a bazillion others who have the same thing on their mind. Well, at least there’s someone to ask her why she was there. The clerk gazed at the paperwork and noted that there was still a lien on the vehicle. So she cheerfully said, “You need to get a copy of the lien release from your bank before we can change the title over to you.”

Back she goes to her car. It’s beginning to get humid and a lot hotter. She takes a whiff of her inhaler and proceeds to the bank. By the time she gets there, the dewpoint has become tropical and she wheezes when she opens the car door.
She’s told to sit and wait for a banker to help. At that point she begins to cough. The banker arrives in the middle of the outburst and leads her to his office, asking if she’d like some water. Such a nice young man. It doesn’t take too long for her to obtain the right documentation. She decides to stop at Costco on the way back to the license center. There are maybe a trillion people there. She grabs a cart and heads for the liquor section, purchases a bottle of Irish Creme and goes to the grocery section. She seriously thinks about opening the bottle and taking a quick sip, but refrains. This trip becomes another distraction lasting about an hour. She decides on a different license center, thinking it will be less crowded. Not so.

She’s met by a familiar face at the main door. It’s a friend, so there’s an exchange of conversation. Then into the center, where she sees people sitting in the area outside the door, realizing this place is just as busy as the last. She gets a ticket and sits down to wait – for another hour. During the two hour span before getting here, she has not had the opportunity to use the restroom. Not good for an 83 year old woman. She continues to wait, crossing her legs tightly together.

She continues to think positive thoughts and watches people as she crosses her legs even tighter. She thought up a joke about getting tan. When you’re older, you don’t get tan. Your body simply becomes a giant liver spot. At least this time was being well spent on creativity.

A woman sitting next to her mentioned she was on the same quest. She said she was amazed that a woman of such advanced years was capable of taking care of this, rather than having someone else do it. At last her number was called. It took about five minutes to wiggle her way out of the chair and stand up. Her knees and hips have been screaming at her all day, but she presses on. There’s something about the persistence and perseverance of older women. I might scare you if I reveal just how strong they are.

Posted in aging, generations, Humor, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , | 17 Comments

BEAUTIFUL CREATION . . .

Posted on August 13, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER ©

Today’s art is a watercolor pencil sketch, with so much amazing detail. The eyes are focused on us as we watch him. Paul created art that was so often connected to a story. He moved around a lot when he made art. One friend commented that his brush seemed to move faster than his brain. You can see a lot of motion in this piece. Just like our lives are filled with movement and energy, this Big Horn Sheep looks like he’s ready to jump off the page. All of God’s creatures, great and small, require vim and vigor – including us.

A lump of clay – no life – unanimated – uninspired,

Left to the hands of the Potter.

He pushes and prods with the strength of His hands

He manipulates with the tenderness of His fingers

And creates something recognizable.

He chisels details – two eyes, a nose, a mouth.

A human form, with flesh and blood.

He breathes life into newly formed nostrils with His own exhalation ,

Then He sets it aside – letting His handiwork rest for a while.

Alone – no life – unanimated – uninspired.

The creation is led by its own desires and passions.

It wanders aimlessly through its unknown existence.

Without the Creator, it cannot think clearly. Its mind is controlled by its form.

Crashing , tumbling, falling deeper into a pit of nothingness – alone and out of control.

Because it has not yet been exposed to the Light.

The Potter searches for His creation – never stopping until it is found.

He takes it into His loving hands.   He brings it closer to the Light.

He refines – turns – remolds – inspires.  He erases the blemishes,

Polishes and finishes.

This time the Creation experiences the Light. It feels the warmth of it. It bends to the touch.

Through the Potter’s loving touch the clay has now experienced real life.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, creation, life after death | Tagged , , , , | 2 Comments

CONTRAST . . .

Posted on August 12, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER©

Paul did this painting plein air at the Parley Lake Winery in 2014. This was time when his outdoor painting was in full force. It was a beautiful location. I went along and watched as he and other artists set their easels and filled their pallets. The contrast in this painting is obvious – just as they are in every day of our lives. Last night Paul was honored by the Seasons Gallery of Hudson, WI, along with fellow artist, Tom Dimok, who both passed away this year. They were both part of the founding of the plein air event that goes on for over a decade.

The blending of positive and negative space,

Mixed with a spattering of color here and there,

Together they become united, apart they fall,

Wouldn’t it be grand if humanity could take off the blinders,

Throw away their bias and indifference towards one another,

To become blind to the variety of colors in the races,

To see each other as part of a huge tapestry,

Of interwoven threads,

Each an integral part of the greater picture,

The one which unfolds each day,

With people unconcerned about skin tones,

Simply working together to create a beautiful piece of art called life,

Wouldn’t it be grand if we were color blind,

When we look at those around us?

Posted in Uncategorized | 3 Comments

FOLLOW WHERE HE LEADS . . .

Posted on August 11, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ORIGINAL ART & POETRY FROM PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

There are so many roads to follow. We’re often beckoned by the sights ahead. Those paths may lead to something even more beautiful than we imagined or to a dark place that sickens us. I think I would choose the first road. How about you? God invites us to follow Him through the deserts of life – the battering winds – the storms – the challenges we face every day. His road always leads us in the right direction, giving us hope for tomorrow. As we start a new week, remember that He is the same today as he was yesterday and will be tomorrow. This world is filled with chaos and confusion. Walking with our Savior, God, will only bring peace and comfort.

A road can lead to nowhere as we travel through this life,

Our minds submit to evil, our hearts endure much strife,

But when we follow Jesus, the road is always clear,

Our final destination is not one we should fear,

He takes our hand and leads us through peril and through strife,

He’s always there beside us, He guides us through this life.

When we can go no further, He lifts us with His power,

Defending us, protecting from those who would devour,

He lays the bridge before us, He is that bridge you see, 

He suffered and was crucified to set our spirits free,

The path has now been cleared, there is no obstacle,

For we have been redeemed by Him, He paid the debt in full.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Christian daily devotion, daily walk, wisdom | Tagged , , , , | 1 Comment

GRAY SKIES ARE GONNA CLEAR UP . . .

Posted on August 10, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Just before the sun rises, there’s an eerie cloud of gloom that lingers. Shapes and patterns begin to come into formation. Just prior to that, we might feel that the murkiness enveloping us – inviting us to enter into a deep, dark rabbit hole. Paul loved chasing the light. Even in this pencil drawing, we can see the shadows, the highlights, the depth and transporting of different shades of black. There is something alluring about darkness. It beckons, lures, entices, but eventually the light will shine through it. It is when the light appears that the scene becomes one of a smorgasbord of brilliant hues which are so much more appealing. Follow the light.


As I travel through life’s darkest moments,

When all around me is unfamiliar ground,

When the sound of silence engulfs me.

and pierces the everyday sound,

There in the midst of it all,

There with wings unfurled,

With pinions uncut,

With strength and dominion,

He will lift me out of the darkness,

He will protect me from the dangers of life,

He will cover me with His power, strength and love,

I will not fear the terrors of night,

Or the dangers that lie at every corner,

He will comfort my tangled soul,

He will shield me from all harm,

And I will soar with the eagles.

Posted in ART & FICTION BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, redemption, sin, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | 3 Comments

SOUNDS OF SILENCE . . .

Posted on August 9, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ORIGINAL ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

A very loud thunderclap, proceeded by many more was my wake-up call during last night. It seemed almost like a chorus of tympany drums pounding one after the other. My nights are almost always filled with uninterrupted sleep, but this storm kicked me in the eardrums and made me sit straight up at attention. There are daily storms that interrupt our daily walk with God. We count on Him to lead us through them. He leads us to a peace reserved just for us. That peace comes from Christ alone.


In solitude we sometimes find ourselves – we need some time alone,

A quiet place where life stands still – an instant safety zone,

Where waters blue surround us, where peace is everywhere,

Where you can hear the voice of God, in quiet, thoughtful prayer,

He may not give us answers that we would like to hear,

But in the sweet serenity, He holds us ever near,

The beauty of those moments, renew – refresh – restore,

“In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.”  Psalm 4:8
 

Posted in ART & FICTION BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, peace, storms, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments

FREAKY FUNNY FRIDAY . . .

Posted on August 8, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

I remember my grandma telling me not to make funny faces or my face would stay that way. She was probably right, because my face has a road map of lines across it. Each of those lines can probably tell a story, but I like to think of them as a result of laughter. I’ve often found laughter to be the best medicine. Theres a ten month little boy in my life now. He is my great grandson. He is just beginning to form words that are familiar to him. I can’t wait to hear what he’ll have to say in a few months.

Kids are well known for saying things that make us laugh.  For example:

On the topic of Moses:

  • His real name was Charlton Heston.
  • He led the Israel lights out of Egypt because of the bad Pharaoh.
  • God sent ten plagues on the Egyptians. Some of the plagues were mice, frogs, bugs, lice and no cable.
  • Every day in the desert, God fed the Israel lights some manicotti.
  • He gave them His “Top Ten” commandments. They were things like: don’t lie, don’t cheat, don’t dance, don’t smoke, don’t covet your neighbor’s stuff (whatever that means).
  • He also told them to humor their fathers and mothers.”
  • When my third child was born (named Joy) and I brought her home from the hospital with a tiny little stub of a belly button, my son thought we were singing about her at church services. You may have heard the hymn about Joy full of cord.
  • The Bible reminds us to have a glad heart and a cheerful face, in Proverbs. There are so many things in this world that distract us from what is really important; things that bring us down and cause us to feel helpless and even hope. I think God has a sense of humor and loves to laugh with us. Life is too short to forget about the funny things in life.
Posted in God, Humor, Life, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , | 1 Comment