CALM MY FEARS . . .

Posted on February 28, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Deep within the tallest pines, with dark night’s haze enshrouded,

A hidden place encased in webs of silver threads beclouded,

A quiet sanctuary, a place to run and hide,

A place to lick the wounds of hurt and safely stay inside,

Away from life’s diversions, a cave to call your own,

Where you can hide your troubles and bury them alone,

A place like that does not exist when you believe in God,

For He will never leave you, no matter where you trod,

He’s by your side through all your pain, through joy and suffering too,

He knows you need His presence to help you see it through,

You simply can’t escape Him, He’s in the air you breathe,

Give in to His protection, His blessings He’ll bequeath.

Posted in Uncategorized | 7 Comments

BLACK & WHITE DRAMA . . .

Posted on February 27, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

One of the most influential photographers of the 20th century was Ansel Adams. He was especially known for his black and white photos. Being an environmentalist and naturalist, he loved scoping out and enjoying the magnificence of locations that would seem impossible to reach. Black and white most often creates a sense of drama, not only in photography but also in the pen or pencil of an artist. Paul was a master of finding it in the cliffs right here in Minnesota and Wisconsin. This drawing shows the glory of God’s handiwork and Paul’s interpretation. It currently hangs in the living room of our home. It won an award at the Banfill Locke Center for Arts in Fridley, MN several years ago.  I am always amazed by the stark reality that he captured in his work, but there’s a lot to be said for black and white.

Life itself is not all black and white, but the glory of God’s creation is majestic in all of nature.  Last night we were witness to an amazing red sky that melted into purple, blue and eventually grey and the darkness of night.  Enjoy these treasures that God has placed before us.  I’m quite certain that all the artists now living in heaven are doing their best work for our pleasure.

Posted in art & inspiration from the Boechers, grief, peace | Tagged , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

THE MIGHTY MOOSE . . .

Posted on February 26, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

His powerful muscles are apparent in a body strong enough to carry the weight of his gigantic antlers.  His antlers resemble open hands reaching up to heaven.  As with all of God’s creatures, those six foot wide horns are set upon his head for a purpose.

He proudly displays them to win the attraction of those of the feminine gender.  Yet they can be used in battle, or to push his way through a dense forest with ease.  They can be used as scoops to overturn large rocks or timbers so that he can feed on lichen and rich moss.

As he fights for attention, those mighty paddles become like giant jousting lances.  In order to gain the love of a fair maiden, he will use them against his foe.  May the best moose win!

I wonder if I’ll ever see another animal like me,

I am so big and muscle bound, there’s not another one around,

Who can my prowess overtake, who looks like me for heaven’s sake,

I wander through the forests tall, with ease I tower o’er them all,

When darkness comes to fill the night, I remain fearless at the sight,

Other creatures look up to me, some oft mistake me for a tree,

But soon they learn that I am not, a bully or a juggernaut.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, stress | 1 Comment

DAWN’S EARLY LIGHT

Posted on February 25, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

I guess you could call this an artist’s selfie. Paul always said that best light comes with the dawn or sunset. The outdoor artist must paint quickly at each of these times because the light is magical as well as swiftly changing.

1ORIGINAL ART & POETRY BY PAUL T. & KATHY BOECHER©

The artist follows a journey of his own,

Travelling down the road less wandered trying to catch the light,

Searching desperately for the right subject matter,

A vagabond living in the moment, on an expedition,

He sets his easel, makes ready his paint,

A virtual studio out of the back of his truck,

He attaches a canvas, fills his palette with color, and waits,

For just the right light, just the right dazzle on the water,

Just the perfect stillness and glimmer,

And then it begins.

Posted in Encouragement, grief, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , | 7 Comments

SUMMER DREAMS

Posted on February 24, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

I’m not sure where this was painted, but it must’ve been a plein air competition. Paul participated in several of these here and in Wisconsin. The location isn’t nearly as important as the feelings emoted by it. It reminds me of summer days. Winter will be melting into oblivion this week with warmer temperatures. We’ve been fortunate to have a fairly decent winter. The pipes only froze once. Still, Spring is beckoning as the sun gets stronger.

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

The black and white of winter’s cold, seems lost in longer days,

The palette is monotonous, surrounded with a haze,

Gone are the days of shades of green, of life’s pure breath of life,

No luscious hues of red and gold. to take away our strife.

The glorious pigmentation, the blooms that fill each day,

Are buried in a quilt of snow, they all have passed away,

I long to see them grow again, and push to fullest heights,

To smell the fragrance they exude, to fill the summer nights.

Though summer seems so far away, I still can fill my dreams,

Hues so intense and exquisite, invade in brilliant streams,

They fill my head with pleasure sweet and conquer winter blues,

For spring will have to wait a while as winter pays its dues.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, New life, seasons | Tagged , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

HIDING IN PLAIN SIGHT . . .

Posted on February 23, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ORIGINAL ART & POETRY BY PAUL T. & KATHY BOECHER©

I imagine that sitting in a tree, waiting for a magnificent white-tailed deer might be exciting for someone who loves to hunt. Time goes by slowly, but the senses are enlivened by all the sounds, smells and visions of God’s beautiful creation. Just enjoying the weather, the peace and quiet and the life that stirs around you. God gives us these moments to get closer to Him. Where we pray makes no difference, but being close to God allows us to hide in His presence. We can’t run away. We can’t hide from Him. We can communicate in an intimate way with Him.

Entwined with brush and branches, a refuge holds you tight,

The world is far away, you’re hidden from its sight,

The fear you hold inside, adrenaline releases,

But comfort abides within you and takes away your fright,

So quietly you linger there, hanging on with all your might,

The clouded skies of depression turn into an endless night,

But you cannot hide forever.  Your sweet dreams lose their delight,

He knows your every single move.  From heaven He sees your plight,

He sent His Son to save your soul and eliminate sin’s bite,

He changes our hearts and minds.  He’s turned dark into light,

Your life is in His strong right hand, and He’ll always hold you tight.

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FRUITS OF THE HARVEST

Posted on February 22, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & INSPIRATION BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

When weather was unsuitable, Paul would paint inside one of his many of his studios, including the Rum River Art Center in Anoka. When we moved into our current house, he discovered this place just a few blocks from us. He became a teacher and mentor at this amazing place. Paul has always had the gift of gab so quickly made friends with the over 55 group that he taught. The group continued even after Paul left this world and many of the original students are still gathering. Not only was he considered one who guided their art journey but also encouraged and listened to their needs. On top of that he was a great friend to many.

Posted in art & inspiration from the Boechers, grief | Tagged , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

HE PROVIDES FOR EVERY LIVING THING

Posted on February 21, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

Each painting begins with an idea, a vision, observation, a location and inspiration. Paul’s sketch books were filled with quick drawings of things that would almost become finished pieces of art on their own. Like the writer keeps journals for future reference, the artist has a plethora of mental images tucked away in his mind or a sketch book.

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

Clouds go dancing through the sky – painted for our pleasure,

Elephants or angels fly – on canvas without measure,

The great expanse can turn to dust – its face will fill with rage,

But when the clouds dispel their grief, the tears wash clean each page,

We too can be like clouds on high, when life does overtake us,

We find surcease in tears we cry, we pray that God remakes us,

He hears our cry and washes clean the sins that sap our life,

His life for ours, His love unseen, will take away our strife.

Look heavenward, keep eyes on Him, don’t bend to Satan’s lies,

If God can keep His creatures safe – He’ll give to us His prize.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, eternal life, Nature | Tagged , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

HEARTS MELTING . . .

Posted on February 20, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BT PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

The past couple of weeks have been filled with double digit below zero temperatures, However the sun is brighter and stronger this month. Next week we’re promised mid-forties. There are lots of ups and downs in Minnesota, not only in the temperatures but the variety of emotions and lack of sunshine. This painting was done when the icy landscape had just begun to freeze, The variety of weather and physical changes lead to cabin fever, but around here, people love the variety and challenges of living through all the seasons. Soon the snow will melt and we’ll be seeing new growth and flowers once more. Thank you Jesus, for another day!

Light in darkness – sweet redemption – all my sins He melts away,
He brings life from deep depression – cradling in His arms each day,
In darkest hours I make confession of my guilt. I bare it all,
He forgives and grants me healing. He is there to take the fall,

Frozen landscapes soon are hidden. Only pastures green remain,
He will lead me by still waters ’til He comes to earth again,
No fear of death will e’er surround me. I know it cannot sting me now,
I’ve given him my one possession – it is my life I do endow,

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1800s KIND OF A GUY . . .

Posted on February 19, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & INSPIRATION BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Paul often said he was born in the wrong century. He would’ve fit perfectly into the early 1800s. During the time of the Corps of Discovery Expedition, Lewis and Clark were commissioned to explore the lands acquired after the Louisiana Purchase and maps that would lead a path that would lead to the Pacific Ocean. Cameras were not yet in use, so artists would generally travel with explorers to sketch or paint the landscape, indigenous people and various plant life, So, it wasn’t surprising that he took on the character of just that kind of artist when he worked as an interpretive naturalist after retirement. Each of these reenactments required him to set up a tent and display some of his tools of the trade. He created his own set including various hats, along with eating utensils, clothing, blankets and a few completed paintings. Groups of students would visit his site along with others and hear all about what it was to be partner in such an endeavor.

His audience would be treated to a history lesson for about ten minutes and then move on to the next reenactor. Paul had a very interesting life through his own exploration of history. His ability to teach always held his audience in the palm of his hand. I learned so much from him during our life together, I miss him, I love him and i know he is enjoying the blessings of eternal life. I can’t wait to be reunited with him some day,

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

ANOTHER GEM . . .

Posted on February 18, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

I had to do a little research on this painting. It almost looks like it originates in Italy. Actually, it was painted in Hudson, WI, one of Paul’s favorite places to paint outdoors. The Bugatti logo remains on the side of what used to be an auto shop owned by the Gohlike brothers. They opened their company restoring rare pre-World War 11 automobiles in 1982. The company didn’t last long, but the Bugatti image remains as a reminder of what once was.

Bold brush strokes, slide across an empty canvas,

A dab of color, a splash of pigment, the imagination of the artist,

What we see may not match his interpretation,

What we feel through his interpretation is his goal,

The artists lays the paint, scrumbling colors together,

Blending,

Adding light,

Filling negative spaces,

Always thinking about the end result,

Always hoping to touch a heart,

To inspire,

To engage,

To bring joy,

Life is made of memories,

We sometimes dwell too much on them,

We often revise them to fit our current situation,

Or paint over our original imagery,

Whatever our intention,

We should face it with a joyful heart,

Clinging to the hope that our true Creator has designed for us.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, grief, memories, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

GOD KNOWS . . .

Posted on February 17, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

The days are growing longer but soon daylight savings time will come and confuse us again. Only God can place the sun in the sky as it circles the earth. When man tries to manage things without God’s precision, there will be confusion. When we interfere in the will of God, we’re chasing the wind. He is in complete control of the rising and setting of the sun. That should give us such comfort. This painting was done at dawn on site, The location was an old inner-city area with rundown warehouse buildings. Paul tried to catch the light on that early morning, but only God can turn something ugly into a masterpiece.

Jesus knew His final hours were coming to a close.  He knew this would be the last Passover He’d spend with His disciples.  He was fully aware of what lay ahead.  His mission was about to be accomplished.

How did He know?

He knew, a few days prior, that a donkey would be waiting for Him within the city.  He knew that a room would be prepared for Him and His homeless band of disciples.  He knew someone in that room would betray Him and another would deny Him.

How did He know?

He knew the hour of His death, but He wanted to fill their hearts with a few final lessons before it occurred – lessons that seemed impossible to them.  He knew He had to do what was expected of Him.  His human flesh longed for a different outcome, but His divinity told Him it was the only way.

How did He know?

He knew that by washing their feet, he was demonstrating how they should serve others.  He knew their fears.  He knew they wouldn’t be alone in their future struggles, just like we can count on His omnipresence.  He knew He had to suffer in our place.  He accepted His fate because of His great love for humanity.  He knew it was God’s will.

How did He know?

He knew that His disciples would fall asleep in the garden as He prayed.  He realized his need to talk to His Father – to beg Him that this cup be taken from Him.  He sweat drops of blood as He made His final appeal, knowing there was no escape.

How did He know?

He knew He would conquer death.  He would win the victory over sin and the devil. He knew that His resurrected body would reveal itself to them once more before He ascended into heaven to reign forever as our King of Kings.

How did He know?  He is God!

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, compassion, grief, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on GOD KNOWS . . .

A TABLE FOR TWO . . .

Posted on February 16, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

It’s the last day of Valentine’s weekend. I’ve chosen this painting and poetry to finish it off. I was one of the fortunate to have married my high school sweetheart and spend 60 years together as husband and wife. God chose for us to be together for a lifetime, because He knew we would complement one another. We were exact opposites at the beginning, but we grew as one during that time. When Paul went heaven, part of me went with him.


ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Each Valentine’s Day they met there, a table for two was set,

Vase with a flower were set there, a place they’d never forget,

For years it became a habit, one that would keep love alive,

With time they’d willingly grab it, moments like this made them thrive.

With each passing year their love grew, they’d always count on this date,

To restart, replenish, renew, and all their troubles abate,

The obstacles they encountered, strengthened their bond and resolve,

The journey they shared through each day, would simply never dissolve.

Days turned to years and they flourished, but death came to visit one,

Their love survived and was nourished, at a table for two, set for one,

Each year the tradition goes on, their love will never subside,

And when they’re rejoined in heaven, forever they will abide.

Posted in Uncategorized | 5 Comments

MY FOREVER VALENTINE . . .

Posted on February 15, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Yesterday was possibly the first Valentine’s Day that we weren’t together. I found this post from seven years ago which I wrote to my forever Valentine. This special day was one that didn’t always include flowers or candy. It always included a love that can’t be described in words. Even in this last year of his life, I knew that our love would go on until I join him someday in heaven.

The touch of your hand, the power behind the hugs you give,

The joy I receive when I see you smile and know you have peace,

The feeling I get when you come home from a trip,

The tears I shed when we disagree or misunderstand each other,

The way my heart hurts when you hurt,

The laughter we’ve shared for so many years,

Your silly jokes, your funny little dance, the way your humor still makes me laugh and laugh,

The feeling I get when I look into your eyes,

The tenderness of your kisses,

The security I feel when locked in your embrace,

The knowledge I have that we will see each other again in eternity,

The satisfaction I experience knowing that we have had a wonderful life together even in the most difficult of times,

The leader you’ve become through your teaching, sharing and caring for those you lead.

The enthusiasm you give to everything you do,

Your love for God â€“ the Father, Son and Holy Ghost,

Your appreciation and interest in preserving the beauty of this world through your art,

Your talent, your zeal, your unselfishness, your faith,

These are just a few of the reasons I love you.

Thank you and thank God for allowing me to grow old with you.

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY, TO THE MAN I WILL ALWAYS LOVE!

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, ENDURING LOVE, life after death | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 12 Comments

EVERYONE MATTERS . . .

Posted on February 13, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

This acrylic painting, done completely with a pallet knife, is one of many favorites because it exhibits movement, contrast, depth and an energy which is often difficult to capture with mere brush strokes. Paul experimented with many media. I love this one because it demonstrates his ability to capture God’s majesty with many different tools, We all have been given different gifts to use for God’s glory. It’s up to us to put those gifts to work. We all matter so much to our Creator that He paid the ultimate price to win our salvation.

You can almost imagine the sound of a babbling brook,

Trickling rapidly over rocks,

winding over obstacles, but still persisting,

Each turn in that flowage, touches something along the way,

We can be like that force,

As we tumble through life, we touch others,

Our presence has some impact on those we meet,

Either good or bad,

Wouldn’t it be grand if we made a huge difference,

If we could change another’s circumstances,

Lend a hand,

Be a friend,

We can reach beyond our wildest imaginations,

We can inspire, encourage, support, care,

With those tools,

We are making a difference,

Not only in someone else’s life,

But in our own.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, God's plans, peace, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

UNDESERVED LOVE . . .

Posted on February 12, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

When bruised and injured we do fall, before our Father’s throne And look upon the lamb once slain for all sins to atone, Our pain is nothing next to His, our wounds are all but naught. The blood He shed, His torturous death were all with insult fraught,

But still the Son of God went forth in dignity and strength, He took our place and bore the cross until His dying breath, Three days went by. He shunned the grave and rose to life again. He did this so I too could claim a life in heaven with Him.

Sweet Jesus you have walked the road that I deserved to go.You did this oh so willingly and You knew just what to do So when I’m feeling battered and pulled in many ways, remind me of the walk you took and please accept the praise.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, eternal life, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | Comments Off on UNDESERVED LOVE . . .

UNTIL OUR DYING DAY

Posted on February 11, 2025 by atimetoshare.me
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ORIGINAL ART & POETRY BY PAUL T. & KATHY BOECHER©

We sat, just the two of us, looking out upon the still waters,

You held my hand in yours with strength and love,

Two bodies, yet one,

We’ve grown together from children into old age,

Still the touch of your hand excites, brings comfort and peace,

Our minds have matured like fine wine,

Our hearts have melded together through our common faith,

Love will not die even when life ends,

We will always be together.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, ENDURING LOVE, New life, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , | 6 Comments

LONGING FOR SUMMER . . .

Posted on February 10, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

Summer seems so far away especially when a blanket of white covers the grass, the trees and the roads. It’s a good time to bring up a summer painting. Memories of a sunny day, with boats in the harbor is welcome as we face bone chilling temperatures this week, This is also the week of Paul’s birthday. He would have been 83 tomorrow. What a blessing to spend this special day in heaven. It’s also Valentine’s Day week. The love of my life will always remain in my heart.

Like ships in the night, we pass through this life,
We’re tossed and oft crushed by the waves,
We sometimes sail peacefully then there comes strife,
It seems not a single one saves.

We enter a harbor protected and safe,
It cradles and calms all our fears,
A sweet sanctuary, a place to call home,
Unbound by sheer terror or tears,

Still waters there greet us, He’s waiting to meet us,
The Savior and King of the world,
No more shall we struggle our path is made clear,
His cloak of salvation unfurled.

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

WE ARE NEVER ALONE . . .

Posted on February 9, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

The path is sparse and destitute, with danger all around,

I know I’m never all alone. Your arm will me surround,

The wind declares your glory, the sun will guide my ways,

My tongue is parched, my voice is weak, too weak to sing your praise.

In darkness some relief may come, but still the fear of death,

Lurks everywhere the shadows fall, with every waking breath,

I call the righteous name of God to take away my stress,

To lead me to refreshing springs, and feel His fond caress.

He turns mountains into valleys, the dry land becomes wet,

Resurrecting His great bounty, He never will forget,

The fear of death seems to linger, He stays with me still,

His love brings refreshment, as a life giving thrill.

To You, my Redeemer, my God, You take me from death’s door,

You renew me and set me free, You raise me and much more,

You crush those who stand in the way of blessings that you give,

You gave your own begotten Son, so the rest of us could live.

Posted in anxiety, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, grief | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

GOD’S REFLECTED LIGHT . . .

Posted on February 8, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

The glory of God’s majesty spilled into my window this morning,

Is it a foreshadowing of good things to come?

Alone I sit in its warmth

Wrapped in its glistening light,

Soaking in the rays of heaven,

Feeling God’s presence,

Delighting in His perfection,

There is nothing like looking beyond the snow,

The ice,

The crystallized frost which coats the windows,

Into the depth of God’s warmth,

His comfort,

His strong yet gentle arms,

I rest in the knowledge that even though the thermometer registers below zero,

My heart is warmed by the heat of God’s sun drops,

It was bound to happen. Here in the tundra of Minnesota, winter wouldn’t be winter without a good old fashioned snow event. I remember days long ago when we would gather our three children and cross-country skis and venture out to one of the local parks. The two older children were eager to show off their skills, while the youngest sat comfortably on the back of her daddy as he dashed gingerly through the freshly fallen white stuff. I would bring up the rear as usual. As time went by, it was apparent that the two older kids would inherit their dad’s sense of adventure. Snow sports included snow mobiles, downhill skis and snowshoes. Their dad taught them to enjoy every season and God’s amazing creation, while mom and youngest daughter would rather go shopping or out to lunch. I guess every member of a family is unique, but their differences add so much to the mix. I thank God each day for the blessings He’s bestowed on me through all of them. Paul continues the adventure in a perfect, healthy body. Can’t wait to be together again.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, grief, Winter | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments