SUMMER SOLSTICE . . .

Posted on June 20, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & P0ETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Today, June 20, 2025, we celebrate the summer solstice. The point in time when we will face the longest day of the year. The above painting says it all. The sky is filled with clouds today. The dew point is extremely high. We were promised rain for last night, but I guess the meteorologists don’t hold the strings to what really happens. From here on out the days will grow shorter. God has blessed me with another year in the books, so I plan to water my plants before they fade and die. What will you do?

Soft, buttery shades of yellow melt in the summer sun.

Retreating from the face of God, finding a place to run.

As life moves forth on this planet, we pray it’s for the best.

Our hearts fill with disappointment – we cannot pass every test.

We flounder in the summer days – hanging on to our last hope.

We place our thoughts of life on hold as we struggle now to cope.

The day is at its highest peak, soon all the flowers will fade.

Welcome the glory of its heat or search for refreshing shade.

The days will grow much shorter now and winter will take its place.           

Seconds of our lives are counted – God will show His shining face.

When we surrender to Jesus, our lives will then be fulfilled.

He’ll take our hand and lead us home where all our fears will be stilled.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Life, summer, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

JUST ANOTHER DAY . . .

Posted on June 19, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Here’s another farmstead painting. I love the colors and detail. The fellow waving us in reminds me of Paul. He was friendly, inviting, welcoming, eager to talk, a man with stories galore and a mind filled with so much creativity and love for the Lord.

Every day is special as long as you are in it. I don’t know if that’s a quote from someone famous or not, but it makes sense to me. Today is my birthday. I thank God for waking me up a little later this morning. I will be lunching with my youngest daughter, her daughter and her daughter’s son. A family outing is a wonderful time. When food is involved, it’s even better. I just opened my front door to greet a delivery person who had a special gift of flowers from my sister. I’ve received many loving messages from friends and family. I don’t feel older. I feel different though, because my husband isn’t here to share this day with me. These “first” days will get easier as time goes by, but there are so many. Actually, waking up without him sleeping beside me is probably the hardest time of all. However, I know that I’m not alone in any of these special times. God is still in control. He never changes. He will always be at my side. He will never leave me. Though special days seem different now, without my Paul, I am learning that the Light of the World is with me to guide me through each new page of my journey.

I’m not alone, though I might feel that way,

I’m not alone, when sadness comes each day,

Though tears may fall when unexpected,

I’m not alone, I’m not rejected,

There will be times when I might feel so lost,

I long to see your face at any cost,

To hold your hand and feel your tender touch,

On certain days I miss you very much.

There is no lack of precious memories,

I feel your presence in the sky and trees,

I’m not alone, I hold you in my heart,

You’re always there. We’ll never be apart.

The day will come when I’m with you again,

I don’t know how – and I don’t know just when,

God has promised to bring me back to you,

To share His paradise – I know that’s true.

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, eternal life, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 9 Comments

ANOTHER DAY OLDER AND . . .

Posted on June 18, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

I’m on my last day of being 82. I never thought I’d be facing another birthday. In fact, I am amazed that I’m still alive. My years have been full of so many memories. Thankfully, I have a selective memory and remember only the positive recollections. So, how does one get to be this age? It certainly doesn’t have to do with diet, or I would have kicked the bucket when I was ten. It isn’t about exercise and clean living either. Those traits have eluded me as well. Especially the exercise. (OK, I confess, I didn’t always do the right thing either.)

I think it may have to do with my genes. My mother and both of my grandmothers lived long lives. They weren’t always the best of lives, but each one of them demonstrated resilience, perseverance and true grit. These three had a tremendous effect on my growing up years. The memories of them are all positive. Attitude is everything. None of these women was born with a silver spoon in their month. They had to work hard all their lives to keep the home fires burning and face the challenges of every day.

I often wonder why God continues to wake me up each morning. It seems my journey should soon be over, but every day I say, “Thank you, Jesus for another day.” None of us can determine the day we’ll leave this planet. Only God knows. What we leave behind cannot be counted as our merit. How did we live? Were we involved totally in the day to day of living? Did we try? Did we work hard? Did we give from our heart? Did we pursue success? Did we honor God in all areas of our life? Does it matter?

The things we leave behind are our legacy. I believe that our true treasure lies in the Word of God and the beautiful love story He has placed in our hearts. As the calendar flips through each day, we can thank God for another day as an opportunity to share that amazing truth with others. God’s Word is our great heritage. It is also a gift from Him and a promise of eternal life with Him in paradise.

When we face God on that final day. He will not see us or our works and good deeds. He will see only His Son, Jesus, and the perfection He covered us with. So, we truly can thank Jesus for another day, another year, a future that will bring eternal life.

“Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

Posted in aging, Bible, eternal life, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | 21 Comments

A BRAVE NEW WORLD . . .

Posted on June 17, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & INSPIRATION BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

The Corps of Discovery traveled across the country to explore the newly acquired Louisianna Purchase and eventually to reach the Pacific Ocean. It was more than 200 years ago. Can you imagine entering a world of the unknown? It took a group of brave men, along with one woman and her child to cover this new territory. Merriwether Lewis was a naturalist and spent time bird watching and finding new plants along with unknown species of animals. He kept a journal of these activities. Paul Boecher was born in the twentieth century. He was what you might call a Renaissance man – always searching for new things to draw or paint. He kept several journals as well. The above sketch was undoubtedly used as an example for his portrayal of a frontier artist.

The Lewis bird is a woodpecker. They mainly feed on flying insects in midair. You undoubtedly would not see one in Minnesota. They dwell mainly on the Northwest coast of America. I’m not a scientist, nor a naturalist. Paul was neither of those. He was an avid reader and studied the art of this country from its earliest beginnings. He also had a great love of the outdoors. I’m posting this today to show you how the artist/naturalist would capture proof of their findings in the early 1800s. There are many sketches of this bird within the sketch book of Lewis.

God has his eye on each of these creatures. He knows where they sleep, how they raise their young, how they maneuver through the mountains, who are their predators and how to keep them safe. It’s really quite amazing to realize that every part of His creation is in His protection at all times. It’s also difficult to see that in a world which seems to have gone crazy. We can count on His protection as well.

Dear Creator, God, You have designed every creature on this earth. You know their comings and goings. You watch over all of them, because you love them. You have given each one the means to escape danger – to find food – to enjoy Your creation – survive. As we wonder about the state of the world today, it’s easy to understand our confusion and dismay. We look to you to guide us in the way that you want us to go. We ask for your provision and protection, but above all we thank you for your love. The unconditional love you make available to every human being. Help us to stay focused on that and trust that you have a far greater plan than we can imagine. In the name of your precious Son, Jesus. Amen!

Posted in America, art & inspiration from the Boechers, creation, God | Tagged , , , , , | 6 Comments

SOUNDS OF THE CITY . . .

Posted on June 16, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

The sounds of the city are many. Most of them created by means of transportation. Trains, carrying passengers or large box cars filled with goods going to market. The commuter trains that have taken the place of automobiles for some. The traffic sounds, the sounds of a jack hammer pounding concrete, a nail gun shooting staples into new construction, a jet flying overhead – all begin to sound like an orchestra of different notes and beats.

Our lives are filled with sounds. When the sound of terrorism strikes, we all stand at attention. Our minds fill with opinions before we can even begin to sort through all the elements of the news. Some will wait for the full story, while others demand response immediately. This is what happened in my neck of the woods this past weekend. Two people were killed and two wounded by an assassin’s bullets. It was to be a day of friendly protest. Unfortunately, protests seldom are. We still possess the right to do so, but more often than not, they accelerate. The assassin has been located and arrested. More and more facts will be revealed about this man and his reasons for taking lives and ruining others. We will argue as to the political relevance. We will get angry. We will blame and get angrier. Whenever there is terrorism, there will be rage and hatred. When we form opinions immediately, we are adding fuel to the fire.

I am not an expert on the whys or wherefores, but as a citizen of this country, I am truly worried that so many have forgotten how to solve problems without violence or anger. We really need to step back and take a breath. God did not cause this to happen. He is, however, in control of the final result. Justice will be served.

I listen to the sounds –

The crashing of the large containers as they are transferred to waiting freight trains.

The rat- a- tat of the nail gun as a new roof is installed.

The gentle breeze wafting its way through the trees – tickling them as she passes.

The laughter of a young child – the angry groan of a car starting.

Birds chirping – doors slamming – the classical music emoting from the radio.

Distant sounds of traffic – an occasional jet flying overhead – the whir of a helicopter.

Sounds of the city – always motion – always life – sometimes confusion

And yet these sounds don’t agitate – they let you know the world is still alive.

When the sound of gunfire fills the air,

When senseless loss of life occurs,

We may forget to turn to the only One entitled to pass judgement.

PRAY FOR OUR COUNTRY

Posted in America, anxiety, God, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

THE FATHER OF MY CHILDREN

Posted on June 15, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

This has been a year of firsts for me and our family. The first missed birthday without him – Valentines Day – the coming of spring – Mother’s Day and so on. Today will be the first Father’s Day our children will have only fond memories of their dad. We celebrated our 60th anniversary last September. For all those years and more – he was there. Now he’s with his heavenly Father. What a blessing for him, yet bittersweet for me and those who loved him. I wrote the following poem last year to celebrate Father’s Day. It refers to the Good Shepherd. I’ve written this week about my Father, God. Both of those posts reflect the kind of life Paul exhibited.

Not only was he a great dad, but He led his kids in the right direction by placing God first in our family. We all miss him. Time will pass and the hurt won’t be as bad anymore, but for now it’s still very fresh in our minds. Happy Father’s Day in heaven, my sweet husband. I will love you forever and always.

A tender shepherd walked this earth with love within his touch,
His words could calm the troubled sheep, His hands led them through much.
He chased away the predators, He brought them safely home.
He often searched for many hours for one who liked to roam.
He nurtured and He led them to pastures lush and green,
He sometimes pushed and prodded, through perils yet unseen.
His rod and staff protected – His love would see them through,
For they were His possession – He did what He must do.
He found the purest water to quench their endless thirst,
A clean and living water that always put them first.
This great and perfect shepherd still leads us every day.
His life He gave – became the sheep – to take our sins away.
No price can compensate Him. He dwells among us still.
He leads our souls to heaven. He guides us with His will.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Father's Day, God | Tagged , , , , , , , | 8 Comments

MY FATHER GOD . . .

Posted on June 14, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

The painting for today is a watercolor depicting how our early history was forged in a land that had already been inhabited by several native tribes. Our country is facing difficult times right now. May we move forward with God’s wisdom and help. He is our true Father and with HIm alone, we can overcome anything. Father, help us to lean on your for answers instead of being led by those who would be happy to divide our country further. Amen

Our lives begin in innocence, we are too young to know;

But even in those fledgling years, we choose the way we go.

Our minds are bright our will is strong.

We think we know what’s right and wrong.

Our very hearts grow black with sin, our souls drift to and fro.

We can’t escape the grip of sin. It grows within our heart.

It’s like a cancer moving in and tearing souls apart.

There’s not a thing that we can do.

Our fate is sealed, our death is too.

Our path is filled with darkness, we have no place to start.

Our God showed love omnipotent. He sent His own dear Son.

To pay the price for my misdeeds – salvation He has won.

There’s not a word that I can say,

For burdens lifted every day.

My soul was purchased with His blood, the work has all been done.

How can I thank you, my dear Lord, for everything you gave,

So I will too in heaven live. My soul from sin is saved.

I give my heart and soul to you.

There’s nothing else for me to do.

I’ll praise your name forevermore – my sin is washed away.

Posted in America, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, change, country | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

TESTING MY FAITH

Posted on June 13, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART AND POETRY BY PAUL AND KATHY BOECHER

Our world is full of tragic news and heartfelt disconnection.

We struggle to find good in all the strife and insurrection.

The devil uses all these things to tug within our reasoning.

He twists and turns our very thoughts, with his own special seasoning.

But God’s power is much stronger. He’s crushed the serpent’s head.

He took the devil’s strength away when He rose from the dead.

That evil creature walks the earth, in shadows and in darkness.

He preys upon our weaknesses. He thrives upon our starkness.

He lurks about like lions prowl to forage for their meal,

But never will he find surcease for God will always heal.

The day will come when victory will come from up above.

When God will come to judge us all with justice and with love.

Lord, give me wisdom from your Word. Protect me with your arm.

Keep me within protective wings that shield me from all harm.

You’ve conquered death and so will I, as long as I trust You.

You’ve taken all my sins away. There’s nothing I can do,

Except to spread your Word of truth and love as you loved me.

Now shield me from all evil and set my spirit free.

Posted in aging, Encouragement, Faith, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | 6 Comments

GARAGE SALE OBSERVATIONS, FRIDAY THE 13TH & SINGING IN THE RAIN . . .

Posted on June 13, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

The title for my post actually sums up what’s been going on this past week along with months of planning and digging and pricing things that to us were treasures. To most it might just be a reminder to clean out their own trash. Having a sale of this magnitude is an adventure in itself. From sorting through a storage locker to sifting through years and years of possessions that you’ve hung onto for decades. That, along with admitting you don’t need any of this stuff sounds like an intervention.

Sitting at a garage sale, watching people is quite interesting though. You have the eager young couple looking for baby clothes and items to fill their nursery. There’s the book lover that walks away with a dozen books you should’ve donate them to the +church. Then there’s the guy who must frequent every garage in town. To him (apparently retired) this is how he passes the time of day. He has a million stories to tell and has a captive audience. Someone spots the entire bin of hunting clothes and scoops them up at a real bargain. Another has a story about how he will have to spend a fortune shipping all these items back to his family in another country, as his reason for not being able to spend so much on an item. After about an hour of this conversation, he walks out with most of the free items and returns the next day for more.

We’ve gotten rid of a small portion of the goods; however, each day has also brought its share of rain showers. Yesterday a canopy was set up to protect things outside, but the wind swept it up and onto the roof of the garage. It was a remarkable sight – like a hot air balloon lifting off for its maiden flight.

To top everything off, today is Friday the 13th. I am not superstitious, but things have not been looking good so far. I have not contributed much as far as being a helper at this event. I have a lot of items in it, but I’m limited because – let’s face it – I’m going to be 83 next week. I have been able to look after my great grandbaby a little, but as far as being involved, I just ain’t got the get up and go I once possessed. Besides all this, we’re contending with unfit air for old folks and babies. It’s raining again today and is expected to continue through the next few days. I guess all we can do is sing in it.

As with most of my posts, I like to conclude with some inspiration. All I can think of when it comes to this is a Bible passage that speaks about hanging onto things.

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:19-21

Posted in aging, perseverance, treasure, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | 5 Comments

MISSING MY DAD . . .

Posted on June 12, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

This Throwback Thursday article was first posted on 06/14/17.  The photograph is of my dad on his wedding day.  He was only twenty years old. He died at the age of 61 – a short life, but one filled with more love in his heart than he dared to show.

My dad taught me how to tie my shoes.
He grieved with me when my box turtle fell off the ledge
of our fourth floor apartment.
He came with me to the five and dime to return a trinket I had stolen
and made me apologize for not paying for it.
He caught me taking one of his cigarettes – A camel without a filter.
He then taught me the proper way for a lady to hold a cigarette.
I was probably fifteen.
My dad taught me the difference between right and wrong
And let me know that I would always be accountable for my actions.
When I became a teenager, he was the one who told me the facts of life.
It really made him squirm.
He always “interviewed” my dates.
They had to pass his inspection, but their opinion of him didn’t matter.
He would be at the door to greet us when we got home.
I tried my best to live up to his expectations, but I never felt I could.
His words of praise were few and far between,
But I relished each one and held it tightly in my heart.
He worked two jobs so I could attend a private high school.
He wanted so much more for my sister and me –
More than he ever had.
He must have thought we needed extra attention.
He had a beautiful tenor voice and always sang loudly in church.
His Irish heritage boomed on St. Patrick’s day as he sang “Danny Boy”
And raised another glass. He could drink more beer than the rest
Of them and it didn’t affect him in the least.
Time passed and I fell in love. My dad went a little crazy for a while.
He put the newspaper in the refrigerator
and the bread down the clothes chute.
He became an emotional wreck.
He held my arm tightly as we walked down the aisle to meet my husband,
I could see tears glistening in his usually stoic eyes. He was so proud.
He died at sixty one – a long time smoker – he suffered with lung cancer.
He clung tightly to life – maybe feeling he wasn’t
quite ready for what lay ahead.
Maybe he hadn’t yet made peace with God for his past sins.
Finally knowing that he was forgiven allowed him to give in.
It gave him comfort.
I wasn’t at his side when he passed. We were driving to be with him.
As I looked at the brilliant blue sky, a cloud appeared and took on the
Form of a dove. It quickly floated high above and dispersed into heaven.
It gave me comfort.
I look forward to seeing him again so I can let him know
what a great impact he had on my life.

Posted in Family, Father's Day, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , | 6 Comments

SEEING HIM FACE TO FACE . . .

Posted on June 11, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

These two paintings were part of a collection of animal paintings Paul did for his grandchildren. The thing I like most about them is the eyes. They seem to be staring right at me. Looking at someone face to face and eye to eye has become a lost art. I look into the eyes of my great grandson, and he still has the ability to look right back at me. I find him often staring right into my eyes too. This basic tool of communication is one that requires the use of our eyes. When it comes to our prayers and talking intimately with our God, we don’t have the benefit of that gift. Someday we will see Him face to face. Oh, what a glorious day that will be.

I look into your eyes and what do I see?

Am I the sweet reflection that you wanted me to be?

I know that you are wise in all that you do.

I can’t begin to realize how little I know you.

I know that love me as your own dear child.

You’ve spread your grace upon me with your Son, most undefiled.

When death comes near, to end my days, I won’t fear.

I’ll see you face to face that day and see your eyes so clear.

The world is dark, you bring the light of your Son,

You’ve taken all my sins away. Perfection has been won.

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, life after death, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , | 9 Comments

IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS . . .

Posted on June 9, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

The photo I’m using today was taken about a year ago. Paul and I knew that time was running out and we would spend this last year doing things together as much as possible. We made a habit of taking little road trips to beautiful county parks that weren’t far from home. It was just enough to hang on to as a perfect memory of a treasured time. So, we stopped at one of those parks, got out and had a picnic together. We enjoyed the fresh air and sunshine. The quiet away from the noise of the city was impenetrable. Only the sound of a bird or two – maybe a frog croaking noisily in the distance or some insects sending out signals to their cohorts. Paul picked up the cap of an acorn and placed it on his finger and it made me smile. It’s the little things.

Many years ago, our oldest daughter remembers a time when we were going through a rough patch. We’d just purchased our first home. We had two little mouths to feed, and income wasn’t sufficient to cover all our needs, so Paul took an extra job as a night security guard. Armed with a flashlight as his only defense, he would patrol the building fearlessly. When he came home later that night, he’d greet me at the door and then make a beeline to the children’s room to kiss them goodnight. Our daughter recalls him placing a half a stick of gum under her pillow. He kissed her on the forehead and tucked her tightly into her covers. Our son got the other half. It’s the little things.

Our lives are made up of many little things that tug at the heart and leave an indelible impression. All those memories are designed to bring us comfort as we grow older. They fill our minds with thoughts of different times and different places. When we look at these little things as blessings, we can draw on them when troubles come our way. We can see how God was with us through the good times as well as the bad. We can shed a tear as we remember and lighten the weight of all the other tears yet to come. It’s the little things.

Life is complex and complicated at times, but when we place our thoughts and feelings on what God has planned for us today and in the future, we can draw on those little memories as a cushion to get us through the muck. Many times, we have to search hard for those moments of nostalgia, but God provides for that too. He did the biggest thing for the human soul that could possibly be done by any of us. He gave His life, so we could inherit His holy kingdom. He overcame the world, the devil and our sinful flesh so that we could live too. That’s no little thing!

Posted in aging, memories, Uncategorized, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

HOW’S YOUR PERSPECTIVE?

Posted on June 8, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & INSPIRATION BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

My grandmother had a great way of dealing with frustration. When it became too hard to cope with the memory of losing five children to untimely death; managing a farm; nursing a husband who survived 2 massive stokes – she went to the woods.  She’d sit there for a while and look at the beauty of God’s creation, focus on it for a while, cry a little and then return to her life with a new outlook. She’d use that quiet time to communicate with her heavenly Father to get her back on track.

Frustration is a feeling of disappointment, exasperation, or weariness caused by goals being thwarted or desires unsatisfied. We all go through times like this.  There isn’t a person on the planet that hasn’t been frustrated at some point.  It can be a very debilitating emotion, or it can be used as a tool to get out of that negative frame of mind.  We can let it get the best of us, or we can look to God and His omnipotence and get refreshed and recharged.

The situations that caused our frustration aren’t going to change, but the way we deal with them will.  Some folks ask God why He’s doing this to them.  Others try put on a happy face but still harbor negative feelings within.

Positive and negative energy have one thing in common.  They’re both forms of action.  Choosing the negative is only going to lead to a defeatist attitude, self-reliance and never getting anywhere.  If we decide to go the other route, we can become energized, push forward and never give up.  Turning our attention to the only power source, will allow us to become fully recharged.  Our Creator knows what’s best for us. After all, He has promised us that He has a plan for our lives.

Jeremiah 29:11  “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Posted in art & inspiration from the Boechers, God's plans, purpose | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 9 Comments

EARLY SUMMER SIZZLE . . .

Posted on June 7, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

Today’s painting is one of the latest finds while going through Paul’s massive collection of work. I believe this was painted in Stillwater, MN, where paddle boats continue to fill their ship with passengers enroute to a tour of the St. Croix River. The boat departs and passes rugged sandstone bluffs which have withstood the sands of time. The chatter of the passengers, the constant whooshing of the paddle cutting through the water and the shouts from the captain to his crew. cut through the silence of a quiet summer day.

The sun lifts its weary head and opens its sleepy eyes,

Casting shadows upon the lake with diamond fireflies.

Water is still, ships stand tall, the air is heavy with mist,

This early summer morning now by heaven has been kissed.

Before the waves show up again, before the fish awake,

A single sail arises and begins to cross the lake.

The peace and quiet solitude will last a little while,

Soon sailing crafts and motorboats will capture a big smile.

The paddleboat waits eagerly for passengers to board,

But when they do, the sounds they make will strike a noisy chord.

When you live in Minnesota, the land of many lakes,

You relish every second of the time that summer takes,

It’s simply a brief whispering of nature’s magic spell,

When God is in the midst of it, we know that all is well.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, summer, Travel, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | 1 Comment

SQUIRRELY TALES – HIGH DRAMA

Posted on June 6, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART FROM THE SKETCHES OF PAUL BOECHER – HUMOR FROM HIS WIFE KATHY BOECHER

The pencil drawing is more than a sketch. In fact it is a constant reminder of the squirrels that dwell in our midst. They are very active right now, especially when it comes to the midnight raids on the bird feeders. I can’t help but remember a funny story that occurred many years ago. We had just settled into our new home. I was observing all kinds of wildlife from outside my window, and I’m not talking about the neighbors. What I thought were huge pheasants, turned out to be turkeys. The squirrels were the main attraction. I shared this story before, but in lieu of my squirrely tales, I thought it deserved a rerun.

I patiently resupplied the feeder for about three or four days, but there is just so much one person can take before they lose it completely. I don’t consider myself a violent person. I’ve never intentionally hurt anyone or thing in my life, but something snapped in me, turning me into one fierce, fighting force impossible to control. I knew my husband had a pellet gun, so I made it my quest to find it and merely put the wrath of Kathy into that furry little creature. I had no intention of actually doing harm to it.

The next day came. I was determined. The pellet gun rested on the kitchen table at the ready, the bird feeder filled to overflowing. There he was. He wrapped his four scrawny legs around the pole and scooted to the feast that waited at the top. I admired his coordination. He could have made a fortune as a performer in the circus. All he needed was a pair of extra small tights and a little tutu. He maneuvered his way around the periphery – nibbling and gobbling every last seed he could get his mitts on.

I slowly opened the patio door. He did not hear a thing. He was far too busy gorging himself to notice anything. His eyes were glazed as he feasted on every last morsel. I took aim, pumped the gun, pulled the trigger, caught my finger in the pumping mechanism causing myself extreme pain. The gun went off and a little pellet made its way directly at the squirrel. It took only a fraction of a second. He reeled. He grabbed his chest and spun around. He then did a perfect swan dive off the bird feeder and fell to the ground below. It was a most dramatic death.

I immediately felt a knot in my stomach. My knees were shaking. I felt complete remorse for my actions, but it only took a moment for my grief to turn to joy as the gutsy rodent pulled himself together and dragged his poor, stunned body into the woods. I overcame my feelings of guilt knowing that my original plan to simply scare him had worked. That night as I lay in bed, the thoughts of the day came back to haunt me. As my sleep took me into dream land, I envisioned myself sitting on top of that bird feeder. My hands and feet were bound. There, at the base of the pole, were several squirrels circling with their beady eyes focused on me. In their paws each held a little pellet gun and they were aimed at me!

I woke in a cold sweat. I ran to the window to see if it was real or a dream and there they were. A whole slew of squirrels were helping themselves to breakfast.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, art by Paul T. Boecher, Dreams, humor | Tagged , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

PERAMETERS . . .

Posted on June 5, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & P0ETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

This painting stirs the imagination. We see the city skyline in the background and countless box cars lined for miles in an inner city setting. The colors have some significance too. Rusty sienna engulfs the entire image, indicating age and wearing out. As we congratulate our graduates this year, it might be good to point to these thoughts: During the educational years, they may not see the value in what has been taught. They may become cynical in a country that seems to be divided and off the tracks. The job market isn’t as sweet as they may have thought it would be. They may become sidetracked, and all that education has been for naught.

In life, we experience all of these things. Never knowing what tomorrow will bring. Not being able to figure out our futures. Feeling hemmed in by the parameters that hold us tightly in their grip. There will be positive wishes for these young adults, but God gives us His best advice in His own words of the Bible.

Philippians 3:13-14 “Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

Our lives are often filled with goals too hard for us to reach,

We dream big dreams and reach so high, we lose the things we breach.

As time goes by and dreams become a whisper in the wind,

It may seem so impossible, you’re likely to rescind.

To step outside that little box, is harder than you think,

To widen the parameters can mean you swim or sink.

Don’t limit life to smallness, you could be on the brink,

Of reaching for the best of things – and putting things in sync.

Have faith in God and trust His will. He has a plan for you.

He’s promised to be there with you in all that you will do.

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Setting Goals, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

DISCOVERING MORE ART . . .

Posted on June 4, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

As I am working my way through things to add to my daughter’s garage sale next week, I’ve happened on some hidden treasures. It’s funny how some of the things we save actually do hold more value than we think they do. For example, I found a little tin box, which was saved to hold a piece of crystal jewelry. The necklace was broken and only the stones remained. It looked like I had uncovered a box of diamonds. Of course, my parade was soon rained upon, when I realized they weren’t. Just for the fun of it, I looked up the tin box on the internet and it was worth more than the contents. I continue to find treasures like that in Paul’s artwork. This particular painting was done while He was presenting his character, Hawkeye, to students in our area elementary schools. The presentation included what an artist might see in the 1800s while painting outdoors. It was tucked away in a portfolio case along with sketches he would use as a demonstration. As each of these “new” canvases reveal themselves to me, I feel like I’m discovering something brand new about this extraordinary artist. He does live on through his art and it’s such a comfort to know he’s continuing to use his talent in his heavenly home.

An empty canvas, white and pure, transforms before your eyes,

Through brush strokes and experience a painting does arise,

Our lives are so much like that board, we start out fresh and new,

We stumble down the path we take, we see our troubles through,

There’s nothing we can say or do, to add to God’s splendor,

The only One who can do that, is Christ, our Defender,

We’re born conceived in sinfulness, needing reparation,

But Jesus came in righteousness to win our salvation,

The masterpiece is almost done, the brush is put away,

Our life is drawing to its end, we’ve reached our final day,

But hope remains for all of us if only we believe,

That Jesus shed His blood for us, so with Him we could live.

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Heaven, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

WHAT IS THE SECRET TO SUCCESS?

Posted on June 3, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

With all the graduations taking place right now, there will be an equal amount of motivational speakers giving out advice on the secret to success. The above quote by Colin Powell, states that there is no secret at all. It’s a matter of hard work and preparation, which only comes from those early years followed by more years of education.

Think of what it was like in the 16th century, before the printing press was invented.   Folks had to rely on word of mouth for their information and  by the time they got it, it was so muddled, it was far from the truth.  (Actually pretty much like today’s news anaad information services.)

In those days, people were concerned about having enough food to eat.  They relied on the sweat of their brows to get the work done.  They feared  invasion  by warring nations.  Most of them had never read God’s Word.  Most of them didn’t know how to read.  (Sad to say some of our high school graduates have slipped through the cracks and can’t read either.) The rich got rich and the poor got poorer.  (Also something like the news of our day.)

There were no great health care facilities.  Doctors were few and far between.  The average life expectancy was 40 years of age and if you were wealthy you might live ten more.   We are now living longer, have superior health care, but still don’t know how to contain communicable diseases – and there isn’t a cure for the common cold.

Have we made progress?  If you’re a history buff, you will soon see that it continues to repeat itself.  The passage of time often reveals that there is nothing new in the world.  Solomon wrote the book of Ecclesiastes to address that very thought.

Time goes swiftly by, but nothing really changes.  There will always be battles between good and evil.  There will always be wars and rumors of wars.  We face difficult weather, painful diseases, loss of money, jobs and some of our freedom.   We have Bibles in our homes and on our I-pads, but how often are they opened?  Is there any hope for a brighter future? As far as true success in life is concerned, we can find the solution in the Christian manual for successful living, the Bible.

Our hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.  Our desire for paradise is beyond the grave.  Until then take advantage of the treasure available in the Holy Bible.  Blow the dust off of it and begin to actually read it. It contains the real secret to success.

Posted in aging, Bible, Success, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

WHAT DO YOU MEAN HINDSIGHT IS 20/20

Posted on June 2, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

Mondays are always good do-over days. It’s a great day to start a diet, to set goals, to fix what you messed up last week. You get the idea. The beginning of a new week seems the logical point to make amends for past mistakes and jump start your future. Well, it doesn’t always work out that way, does it? For example, a few years ago, I greeted Monday with great enthusiasm. I got out my garden tools and began the task of pruning some dead branches. In my enthusiasm, I pulled one back that had no intention of leaving. Instead, it whacked me in the face. I immediately saw stars and thought it was curtains for me. The result was a huge shiner which couldn’t be covered with any amount of makeup.

Later in the day while taking a bath, I reached for a wash cloth.  As I sat back down, the non-skid mat slid from under me and I slipped back into the water, knocking my already bruised head against the ceramic soap dish.  A huge bump ensued and again I thought this was my final swan song.

We often have days like that, which generally fall into the Murphy’s Law category.  As we age, the odds get even stronger. Every mishap is deemed a lack of control and a sign of growing older. As I age, I forget simple things, especially when trying to multi-task, which I wasn’t particularly good at in the first place.  I leave one room on a quest for something and by the time I reach the next room, I’ve totally forgotten what I was going for.  Maybe it has something to do with all the head banging I’ve inflicted on myself through poor judgment. Some of the best lessons we can learn have to do with that old adage, “Hindsight is 20/20.” We can learn not to do those things again. More importantly, we can move forward rather than looking back.

God is giving us a second chance by placing those obstacles in our way. Instead of blaming Him for our situation, we should be thanking Him for leading us down a different path. That path leads to Him and His perfect plan for our lives. The first do-over was done when He sent His own Son to earth to save us all from the grip of sin and death. His sacrifice was perfection. His way is also perfect. Hang on to that good news and move into this week with new gusto. God has watered the desert of our hearts with living water. It’s time to quench our thirst and move on.

Posted in aging, change, Uncategorized, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

SUNRISE/SON RISE . . .

Posted on June 1, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

I snapped this picture of a hazy sunrise at about 6:30 this morning. It almost looks like the sun is resting between two wires. A cloudy mist fills the sky around it, failing to reveal the majesty of a colorful sunrise. Smoke from the northern parts of Minnesota and as far away as Canada fill the space and almost dismiss the sun from view. Eventually, it will be all but swallowed up by the haze. Just when you think that will be the case, the sun’s rays pierce through the smoke and the orb comes to life again.

When I think about sunrises, I’m reminded of the many songs that have been written about them. “Sunrise, Sunset,” “The Sun Will Come up Tomorrow,” “I’ve Got the Sun in the Morning and the Moon at Night,” all talk about the effect the sun rising to light the day.

It’s been only a short time ago since we celebrated Easter. A time when the Son of God rose from the dead. That had to be an amazing Son rise. Imagine, seeing the risen Savior – alive after suffering a tortuous death. His blood-stained body was no more. The marks from the scourge no longer visible. His flesh restored. His radiance immediately noticeable. It wasn’t surprising that His disciples were not convinced of Mary’s news that Jesus was alive. The Son rose on that day, to prove to all humanity that He was who He said He was – the true, living, Son of God.

Sunrises will come and go. Some days we will never get a look at them, but as we draw our last breath, we can be sure that we will rise also, with the Son.

“Thus says the Lord, who gives the sun for light by day and the fixed order of the moon and the stars for light by night, who stirs up the sea so that its waves roar the Lord of hosts is his name: If this fixed order departs from before me, declares the Lord,
then shall the offspring of Israel cease.” Jeremiah 31:35-36 ESV

Posted in aging, Jesus, life after death, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments