TUCKED AWAY . . .

Posted on October 11, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & INSPIRATION BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

My husband began his career in art when he was in elementary school and earned an “F” in that subject because he didn’t follow the example in the book. He kept pushing forth into his high school years, and while others were crafting sculptures out of plaster of Paris, Paul was chiseling away on a cornerstone salvaged from an old church. He created a beautiful ram’s head from that piece of stone. From high school he went on to the Art Institute of Chicago where he learned from the masters, studied art history, studied different genres of art, including primitive art and native American carvings. His career path took him into the world of advertising – much like you may have seen on Mad Man, the series. Advertising has since gone electronic, with the creativity fading away. He started his own business and had a large staff. He was successful because he listened to his clients and got to know the products firsthand. When the economy took a dive in the early 1990s, he lost that business and had to come up with an entirely different kind of work. Eventually he went back to his roots to rediscover his love for fine art. Ten years later he started a wood carving business and began designing interiors for cabins and Northwoods businesses. He also picked up his paintbrush and began the daily practice of creating art every day. Thus a huge collection of work. This watercolor is reminiscent of Van Gogh’s style of art. He had the gift of being able to incorporate his own style into these past masters’ which gave rise to the question, “How many artists are in this studio?” His studio had only one artist. This was the man I loved for a lifetime and always will.

Never give up on your dreams. God has a plan for you and He will lead you through life, helping you to discover that plan. How amazing is that? You have the Creator of the Universe in charge of your future. Trust His almighty power. Press on for the prize and know that heaven is waiting at the end of your earthly journey.

Posted in art, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher | Tagged , , , , , | 3 Comments

WATERCOLOR SKY . . .

Posted on October 10, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

There’s something quite magical about an October sky. The clearness, the refreshing sunrises and sunsets – all equate to perfection. When clouds begin to fill those spaces, we’re transported to something akin to a “Steven Spielberg” sky. Paul and I often referred to this producer/director of many films including the Indiana Jones collection, ET- Extraterrestrial – Jaws – Close Encounters and so many more – mastered the art of photographing outstanding views of such beauty. If you have a chance to view some of those films, take a look at the skies. In this watercolor, you can see the melting of colors in the sky as clouds form. The softness spills into the water below, creating a pattern that only can be outdone by God Himself. The use of watercolor to recreate this painting is pretty close. I love this artist!

Cutting through the raging waters, waiting for the perfect time,

Stealing comfort where we find it, carving out a place sublime,

When upon a deep division, faltering we flail and drown,

When we have a firm foundation, we will surely come around,

Sailing through the roughest waters, leaving caution to the wind,

Caring not for intervention, even when our hearts have sinned,

United we can have it all, when we split we surely fall,

We must learn to live together, listening to the Savior’s call,

Don’t let go of His great wisdom, Never falter from the Word,

God will captain your adventure, all your armor He will gird.

Life’s too short to drift and flounder, we can do this if we try,

When we place our faith in Jesus, He will lift us up to fly.

“Eventually all things merge into one, and a river runs through it.  The river was cut by the world’s Great Flood and runs over rocks from the basement of time.  On some of those rocks are timeless raindrops. Under the rocks are the words and some of the words are theirs.  I am haunted by the waters.”  Norman Maclean

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, creation, Nature, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | Comments Off on WATERCOLOR SKY . . .

TAKING FLIGHT . . .

Posted on October 9, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ORIGINAL ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

This sweet little pencil drawing has so much happening. Notice the detail in the branches and trunk of the tree. Observe the complex web of the background and the perching bird getting ready to soar to heights unknown. Imagine the complexities of nature and how God formed each item with a perfect design unknown to the most brilliant of minds, Thank God today and every day for His divine creation, which far surpasses anything mankind can create.

 A steely eyed hawk spots its prey,

He swoops down to capture it,

His wings contain power and majesty,

And at the same time dread and death,

For his food supply.

A common sparrow will stick around,

To enjoy the contents of your bird feeder,

Through all kinds of weather,

Fluffing up the feathers of his wings to keep him warm.

My God has healing in His wings,

He can cover me with His safety,

He can lift me with His might,

He shields me with protection,

He uses the strength of His wings as a safetu net,

From the storms of life,

Even when the world assails,

And all seems lost,

He is there to cuddle and protect me,

From all outside influences,

I can rest in that knowledge,

Knowing that nothing,

In this world,

Can harm me,

Even in my darkest hours,

He is my armor.

HE IS MY GOD!

Psalm 91:4 He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, creation, God, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | 9 Comments

A PLACE WHERE EAGLES DARE . . .

Posted on October 8, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ORIGINAL ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

This piece was probably painted in Wisconsin. The bluffs lining the St. Croix River Valley look much like this and are always a piece of eye candy as you enter the state. It amazes me to see these rock formations, yet God is so much more than amazing. He carved these spaces either during the time of creation, or possibly as the waters of Noah’s flood cut through solid rock, washing away surrounding mountains. The power of that flood had to be immense. Up until that time in Bible history, there was no rain. The atmosphere acted like a giant terrarium as the land was watered from the bottom up. The force of that water surging from the inside of the land along with the pouring from above was strong enough to create a source of power to be reckoned with. I also am inspired by these cliffs housing our country’s bird, who almost met with extinction. They now soar to great heights and often build their nests in these spaces.

A majestic eagle takes its flight, his wings span eight feet wide,

He lives within the fear of night, but never does he hide,

His talons strong and piercing, can deaden any foe,

He holds them tight and takes them to his hungry little fold,

The mother tends the nest and underneath her breast,

The baby eaglets sleep, while watchful eye she keeps,

The power of this raptor outweighs his enemies,

He welcomes any danger with greater tendencies.,

Our God protects His flock, much like this glorious bird,

His love persists and never fails, He hears our every word.

Isaiah 40:30-31 “Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Body of Christ, God, refuge | Tagged , , , , , , , | Comments Off on A PLACE WHERE EAGLES DARE . . .

SWAN SONG . . .

Posted on October 8, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

(LEFT TO RIGHT – Me, Kathy Boecher as Pearl, behind me Crystal, next to me Christine, next to the clock our director, Viva, Sue, Elizabeth and Doreen. Missing, is Barb, who is enjoying the sun in Portugal.)

This group of lovely ladies will be reprising a show we did last October for a private group. “Which Witch is Which” will be my last performance with the Jewels of deNial. For the past five years, I’ve been involved in this fantastic group of talented women who are beyond 55. We embrace living with joy and have grown to be a support group of tightly knit friends. This choice didn’t come easy. My family will tell you that I am a big ham and love being on the stage performing.

This has been a year of change for me in so many ways. I lost my husband of 60+ years after a long battle with cancer and many other health issues. I began babysitting for my great grandson, so my granddaughter could commute several miles to her college and begin to finish up her senior year. My sister lost her husband a week before me to Alzheimer’s. Both of these men were firmly planted in their faith, so we know that they are now residing with Jesus. I continue to put my fingers to the almost worn-out keyboard and write my daily blog along with formatting another episode of the Jewels of DeNial to be presented this year. We finished that show last weekend. My grandson moved in with me in March. He grew up in Minnesota and wanted to return, and I have an upstairs that I can’t quite ascend anymore, so it seemed a good solution to have him live with me. Together, we take care of each other. He is a gentle and kind young man, who has compassion and sincere concern for this old lady.

Add to this, a huge garage sale at my daughter’s house, which was pretty much rained out, but we managed to get rid of a few things. There continues to be the matter of a household full of fabulous artwork. Paul has been honored at a couple gallery shows and I keep finding pieces that I’ve never seen before. He lives on through his amazing talent.

So, anyway, the year isn’t quite over, but I’m slowly winding down. I turned 83 this year and realize that my body isn’t going to keep up with my desire to push as hard as I did in my forties. I will definitely miss this group, but I will still continue to participate as their script writer and enjoy their fellowship at weekly meetings and rehearsals. There is nothing like good friends to get you through the challenges of life. I am indeed blessed by many. I can honestly say, “Thank you, Jesus for another day.”

Posted in acting, aging, retirement, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

RUSTY PINES . . .

Posted on October 7, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & INSPIRATION FROM PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

This painting is in the impressionistic style. Paul began experimenting with this genre of art about nine years ago. Impressionist paintings have a glow about them – a bit out of focus, yet you know what the subject is – brush strokes are apparent – there is a focus on light and movement. Through history, painting followed a set pattern of realism and the art of the landscape, historical subjects or portrait painting. In the nineteenth century, this style of painting emerged and set the art world on fire. Many artists emerged during this time, including Monet, Degas, Manet, Renoir and many more familiar names. Since the best source of light came from God, many of these artists turned to painting away from their studios into the outdoors. The effects of weather, temperature, light, movement caused by wind or lack of it all played an important part to this genre. Paul began his painting career later in life and being what he called himself – an 1800s kind of guy – packed his gear and entered this realm of this genre. He made many of his own pieces of traveling gear including paint boxes for various mediums – a handmade chair that was just the right height and weight to carry long distances. His hunting instincts ticked in as he painted various variety of wildlife in their natural settings – changing seasons – beautiful landscapes – trees. His career in art took him many directions. He always said everyone was capable of making art, just like I believe that anyone can take the stage and become an actor.

Those traits made both of us teachers of the arts so we could pass on what we knew and share it with those brave enough to try. Our talents can be nurtured with lessons, experiences and life. Finding your niche in this world doesn’t have to be difficult. If you are gifted with an eye for beauty, the ears to hear and learn, God given gifts of any kind will allow you to do anything you choose to do in this life. Using those gifts to praise God first and add to His kingdom is more than a way of showing our gratitude for those blessings. By doing so, you will also be blessed with a job you love.

“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 ESV

Posted in art & inspiration from the Boechers, courage, teachers, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

BRILLIANCE . . .

Posted on October 6, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

An army of trees surrounds the crystalizing pond,

The leaves begin to fall, but their outer shell remains,

Clothed in brilliant shades of gold, crimson and brown,

The air has a chilling bite to it,

An eagle circles above,

Spying his breakfast from aloft,

He swoops and dips – success,

The still water is shattered like broken glass,

But soon regains its calm,

Reflections of an azure sky,

Shimmer and bounce from trees to pond and back again,

The emerald greens of summer are now clothed with crimson, rust and gold,

The soft and gentle autumn breeze will soon turn bitter cold,

Bringing another season for us mortals to behold.

This is another painting done at the Wargo Nature Center, where Paul worked as a naturalist part-time after retiring. Both of us were blessed to continue working in jobs that we loved. It would be ten more years before I totally retired, but even that wasn’t the end. Aging into retirement isn’t easy when your nest egg has hatched and flown the coop. Fortunately both of us found jobs that would fulfill our love for the arts and nature. I recently told a friend that our marriage was filled with many ups and downs, but the love between us never waned. That love built a solid marriage, an amazing family, a couple of successful businesses. It also carried us through the difficulties that tested what we thought were insurmountable odds. God is so good. He provides for us in all those times. Love is what makes life worth living. God is love. He never lets us go.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, God, love | Tagged , , , , | 3 Comments

ONLY GOD CAN DO THAT . . .

Posted on October 5, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ORIGINAL ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

The sunrises and sunsets of Autumn are often remarkable. God's hand is in them as he brushes color through the clouds and allows light to flow through them. Just the right temperature creates little crystals in the atmosphere which turn into shining gems on God's palette. This painting shows the plethora of colors that man can only try to recreate. Only God can provide a majestic sunrise or a glowing treasure of light that fills the twilight sky. Once the sun descends, an inky color invades the obliqueness and bleeds a blanket of darkness and an abundance of stars.

To capture the essence of a hazy, purple sunrise,

To  brush strokes of muted lavender and gold,

To place a creature within the environment,

To temper, refine, correct, re-do,

The life of an artist,

Yet not perfect, despite its beauty,

Only God can make that happen.

He washes away each imperfection,

Commands the colors to take their place,

Calls on the wind to give just the right amount of coolness,

Creates a perfect sanctuary,

Places His finger on the creature below and gives it life,

Only God can make that happen.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, change, creation, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

PAINTING IN A PUMPKIN PATCH . . .

Posted on October 4, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

This is an unusual autumn for us Minnesotans. We’ve been known to have blizzards in October, which leave us helpless and isolated. We’ve also experienced tornados and thunderstorms. This year we’ve been enjoying unseasonably hot and humid temperatures. All of which sets my allergies on fire. I am grateful I have air conditioning in my car and home. I look forward to getting the flannel out of storage and warm cuddly sweaters. While I wait, I am always finding another painting which characterizes Paul’s talent as an artist for all seasons. This painting was done with his class of plein air painters. The intimate little group would always come up with amazing art, especially when God was actively adding His paintbrush to the green trees and underbrush. You can see Paul’s hand in this photo, putting some finishing touches on an acrylic painting on canvas within a pumpkin patch.

Pumpkins orange and trees of gold will soon be gone and done,

No longer will the crimson leaves lay carpets at our feet,

Greens turned to yellow, brown and rust, God’s timeline has outrun,

Harvest has been gathered and stored, and winter soon we’ll greet.

Now skeletal branches swaying, dancing with grace and style,

Reminders of our mortal lives, telling us to slow down,

Enjoy the ride where it may go, and take it mile by mile,

Each day is a gift so live it, soon you will wear a crown.

God breathes in life for a purpose, and we’re a part of that,

We live to share His gracious love, we die to life once more,

Like seasons we change our colors, we learn how to adapt,

But God remains in His heavens, opening up the door.

When life no longer sustains us, we shrivel and we die,

We shed our skin and turn to dust, our soul is still alive,

What God’s Son, Jesus did for us, will lift that soul on high,

Through heaven’s gate we’ll walk right in, and we will never die.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, change, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , | 3 Comments

WHO WILL CATCH ME?

Posted on October 3, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Today I’ve chosen this sketch which Paul created on the spot. His sketches often demonstrate his strong faith and the sum of all the things that were going on in his mind at the time he created them. Looking at all the lines – going in different directions – winding here and there – creating a sense of movement, they also display confusion. There are a number of different paths leading to the secluded dwelling in the woods. That sanctuary seems like the final destination. When we feel lost and confused there are many roads we can take, but the one that gets us there is one that we don’t always use until it’s a last resort. How much simpler it would be if we went to that source first.

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”  Isaiah 41:10

When every ounce of strength has been sapped,

When it seems that you can no longer go on,

When life kicks and punches you,

When there seems no hope for tomorrow,

Where do you turn for restoration?

Where do you go when your will has been crushed?

Where will you find relief?

When you’re lying on your back in complete submission,

The only place to look – is up,

Turn to your Creator,

The God of the universe,

Your Savior, Redeemer and Comforter,

He can mend broken bodies,

He can lift your spirit beyond expectation,

He gives you new life, new strength,

With Him, you will soar higher than the angels.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, courage, Faith, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , | 1 Comment

COMING HOME . . .

Posted on October 2, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

This piece was done with watercolor pencil and watercolor paint at the Landing in Shakopee, MN on the Minnesota River. Paul participated in a reenactment of an 1800’s landscape artist from that time period. This place is covered with history. Being a river town, it soon began to fill up with buildings, stores, a school and church and homes for several who used the river for transporting their wares to other cities. Farmers, storekeepers, clergymen, families from various parts of the world came there to find their American dream. Today, this lovely addition to the Three Rivers Park System is a refuge from the big city life that churns and bustles nearby. Paul always considered himself an 1800s kind of guy. He loved the history of that time period and the persistence of the people to make a living just to stay alive. He would don his costume and spend a weekend with other reenactors, portraying life during that time in history. The painting was done as a testimony to one of the buildings in the park. The simplicity of lines, color, light and movement are a contrast to the lives of people today, They worked very hard to make a living. From dusk to dawn, time would be spent in the fields, milking cows, building houses, forging horseshoes, preparing a sermon or going to school for the young’un’s. I imagine life today would be completely foreign to what happened then, but someone had the foresight to preserve these communities so that we could view history in the making.

An explosion of color pours through the negative spaces,

A new edifice, designed to add to the glory of the old,

Images of stained glass shards,

Intermingled with spatters of light,

Entwined with the movement of a paintbrush,

Morning displays its majesty,

Through the glistening light,

Enhanced by trembling shadows,

Dotted with motion, love and precision,

The brush dances across the canvas,

Colors blend,

The artist works diligently,

To create his art,

God takes it many steps beyond.

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OCTOBER SKY . . .

Posted on October 1, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER@

October is here and along with it comes brilliant colors that transcend anything we can reproduce. God is in His creation throughout the year, but He seems to pull out all the stops when it comes to this month. The crunch of dried leaves underfoot – the faint smell of a bonfire and possibly S’mores – the shorter days and longer nights – all point back at a breathtaking summer and forward to the chill of the cold winter to come. This watercolor is a sampling of the beauty that God lays before us in October. Pumpkins appear on doorsteps. Halloween decorations are popping up all over. Aromatic spices of cinnamon and nutmeg fill the air and apple pies are in the oven. Flannel shirts will replace tank tops. Boots come out and flip flops are put away for another season. Take time to enjoy the blessings that God has given at this most special time of the year.

Ascending through a crimson sky, brilliant glory blazes,

Morning’s light so swiftly passes, into heavenly gazes,

Sunshine cuts through frosty woods, a peace in the afterglow,

Shorter days and longer nights, remind us of coming snow,

The glory and the splendor of the early morning light,

Defines the way we feel just then and carries us to night,

Shadows fall and daylight ends and the sunset disappears,

And wait we must for sleep to come; it has for many years,

And if we wake at morning light, or if life is ended,

We’ll possess October skies to heaven be transcended.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, creation, seasons, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , | 7 Comments

FOREVER FRIENDS . . .

Posted on September 30, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

When you reach my age, you find yourself more isolated from those around you. You long to talk to and be with old friends. Yesterday, I had the opportunity to spend a few hours with two of my high school friends from over 65 years ago. It’s so special to be with friends you grew up with. It’s like putting on a pair of old shoes that fit just right. We shared stories from the past. We talked about how those years progressed and got away from us. Life becomes so busy – so full of living – that we lose track of each other, especially when miles separate us. It seems that the years have not changed us that much. Of course, our bodies are in different shapes than they were, but the things we learned in those younger years have stayed with us. The foundation that our parents laid through God’s strengthening Word has remained a part of us for all this time. These two, along with Paul and me, were two sets of many in our graduating class that married. We went to a Christian high school where we learned more about God’s plan for us and our futures. I’m not sure how many couples there were, but all of them had long relationships with each other and the LORD. We can still look at death without fear, because of those early lessons we learned. God has prepared a place for each of us in His heavenly home, and we can count on a future that includes seeing them again in paradise. While we wait, we can continue on – even through times of difficulty – here on earth.


Life gets complicated,
Torrents of troubles rain upon us,
This brief time on earth is a mere whisper,
How do we withstand the storms,
How do we live through them,
How do we survive,
When life ebbs slowly away from us,
When friends and family pass away,
When financial worries overcome us,
When health issues surmount,
When it seems there is no end,
How do we survive,
We struggle to succeed,
Only to be battered down,
We strive to accomplish great deeds,
Only to be ridiculed,
We wonder how we fit into a world gone crazy,
How do we survive,
We’re amazed at the state of our youth,
We worry about the state of our churches and schools,
We fret over man’s inhumanity to man,
We mourn for the children of the world,
How do we survive,
God has a plan,
We know He is perfect,
He always delivers,
He won’t let us down,
Be still,
Know that He is God,
We will survive.

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, life after death, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | Comments Off on FOREVER FRIENDS . . .

WE ARE FAMILY . . .

Posted on September 29, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

This is a familiar acrylic painting that Paul crafted over a period of time observing a family of Osprey as the went from one male and one female – to 3 eggs – to 3 chicks – to 2 fledglings and one loss. Their family developed over a period of months. Paul was on a study of sorts, with a few other observers. Each day they would meet at the Coon Rapids Dam, set up equipment to photograph, paint or just observe these magnificent water birds. They watched as the nest was crafted out of all sorts of things, including twigs and other objects to hold it tightly together as a resting place for the coming eggs that would be laid carefully and tended until the chicks hatched. There was even a dog collar embedded in the enormous nest. The expedition kind of went south when the men couldn’t come together on how to present their findings. Would it be in the form of a book? Would their observations be presented to other bird watchers? Not being able to reach a decision, they all went their own ways. Paul started with several sketches. The fun was had in the time together and the bond that these men made with each other and nature. The stories have been left untold, but I have a visual reminder of the event in this magnificent painting.

A house is just a dwelling place, a place to sleep and eat,

A set of rooms to roam about, to gather and to greet,

Each filled with lath and plaster, with paint and other things,

It soon becomes inhabited and that’s when life begins,

The walls could tell us stories of who these people were,

By things they said, the hugs and joys and words that would occur,

Of broken hearts, of emptiness, of loss and loneliness,

Of joyfulness and goals achieved, of peace and happiness,

It’s  just a simple shelter made of brick or wood or stone,

But when a family lives there, it soon becomes a home.

Families come in all sizes and shapes. They become a working unit that can conquer many things through teamwork, memories, teaching the basics of God’s Word, sharing their faith with others, learning to love, share and encourage each other. In a world that has lost track of God and is searching for a solid foundation, the answer lies in the family unit and the collaboration of those that are part of it. We need God back in our families. That’s where His greatest work is done. He teaches us so much about life, love, faith, joy, peace & contentment. He loves us more than any human possibly can. As a new week begins, start to think about the power of God and His ability to make good even from chaos. He can do that through us.

“See what kind of love the Father has given to us to be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that they did not know Him.” 1 John 3:1 ESV

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SUNDAY SPLENDOR . . .

Posted on September 28, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

We’ve been blessed with a run of amazing blue skies, fresh, crisp air and changing colors in my neck of the woods. It’s a perfect day for a Sunday drive. After a weekend of visits with family and a special one-year birthday for the little man who made me great – Gigi, has made me look forward to an afternoon nap. I don’t remember such an elaborate celebration for my grandchildren or even my own children, but this one has outdone the rest. It was so nice to send time with our S. Carolina family, those from Minneapolis suburbs and our church family. As I looked at all the cousins and aunts and uncles, I recalled such gatherings on my mother’s side of the family. Coming from a family of eight children, there was no lack of cousins. It was always such fun to enjoy these outings with them. God has blessed me in so many ways. Having a wonderful family that never lets you down is one of them. I’ve been pretty focused on the change of seasons this month. I guess it’s a reminder of things to come. Autumn is the doorway to winter and colder temperatures along with snows, blizzards, slippery sidewalks and streets, lots of accidents, and at least six months of it. I’d love for autumn to last as long as winter, but I’m grateful for the changes of four seasons. Variety keeps life interesting and full of hope for the future. Today’s watercolor was completed at Wargo Nature Center, where Paul worked as a naturalist for a few years. We also took many short road trips to this natural wonderland. The simplicity of watercolor always astounds me, because of the necessary control of the wet paint which is required for a beautiful painting.

Brilliant colors are fading fast, yet in their final glory,

New shades replace their glorious past, they tell a brand new story,

Then one last bloom glory displays, as leaves fall all around,

The bloom will follow to the grave, to rest deep in the ground.

The hues of autumn now ascend,  crimson red, brown, yellow, gold,

Like precious gems the sun will bend, the story then will unfold,

Enjoy the paintbrush of our Lord as brilliant colors He paints,

Amazing beauty is in store for those who patiently wait.

Thank you, Jesus, for this glorious autumn day. You exhibit every color of the rainbow in the realm of your creation during this time of year. Offering hues that only you can make. These colors will soon fade, and winter will come, but it’s up to us to remain positive in all circumstances. Prepare us for those winter months, as you present new beauty from different resources – ice and snow. Amen!

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AT THE RIVER’S EDGE . . .

Posted on September 27, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

This watercolor done at the edge of the Rum River is another reflection of Paul’s love of God’s creation. This river flows into the Mississippi and eventually down to the Gulf of Mexico. You can see the current pushing through obstacles along the way, squeezing in and out of unrelenting tree roots – over rocks and weeds. Life is like that with all its twists and turns – ups and downs – unknowns – striving to reach a destination that leads us home. The artist, Paul, found his way through 82 years of struggle, success, defeat, and more of the same, but always placed his trust in the One who created him. I miss this man but know that he is finally home. He left an amazing legacy through his family and his art. Soon the river will freeze, but the cycle will continue. Our first great grandson is celebrating his first birthday today – another one to love.

Rushing water,

Surging as it crashes,

Over broken rock,

And fallen trees,

Twisting and turning,

Undulating like a serpent,

Snaking its way through the forest,

Life giving water,

Flourishing with vitality,

Imprisoned by its boundaries,

Still following the path,

Carved out for it,

As in humanity,

On a collision course with life,

Obeying all the rules,

Doing our best,

Trying yet failing,

Melting down,

Stumbling,

Falling,

A catastrophe waiting to happen,

Within life’s disaster,

Our Savior walks with us,

Guiding our course,

Lifting us when we can no longer stand,

Supporting through all adversity,

The same Creator who made the river,

Allows us to crash and fall,

Yet guides us to still waters.

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

CHASING THE LIGHT . . .

Posted on September 26, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

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

An early morning in autumn shows the beginning of change. A reminder that the glorious days of summer are drawing to a close. Still, God provides another taste of glory with His own paintbrush – coloring the landscape with shades of burnt umber, cadmium red and lemon yellow. There is an art unknown to mankind within that pallet. He mixes colors, adds lights and darks, plays with movement through the wind and breathes a final hurrah to this amazing time of the year. We know the cold days of winter are in the future, but these days of change are to be enjoyed by everyone. God made this place for us and in autumn He pulls out all the stops.

An 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.

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HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO MY LOVE . . .

Posted on September 26, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

TO MY BEST FRIEND, THE LOVE MY LIFE, MY SOULMATE:

Today it will be the 268th day since the day you entered heaven. It’s also a day we looked forward to each year. It would’ve been 61 years of anniversary celebrations for us. The photograph taken a year ago, as we took one of our precious road trips, is a reminder of the loss I continue to feel. It was a day much like today. The skies were clear and clearest blue. Morning dew had settled on the grass – creating a sea of diamonds, and a misty glow, As I look at this empty bench today, it’s hard to recall the two of us sitting there together. The memory of your smile – the touch of your hand as we looked at the water and talked about our lives so far. Your laughter is gone from our home. Your constant positive attitude no longer fills the empty spots in my heart. I know your journey was difficult at the end, but you never gave up trying to hold us all together. In thinking of these past 268 days, it still seems like a dream in which I’ll wake up and find you beside me again. I know that day will come when God rejoins us in paradise. Without you I know life will go on until then, but I do miss you with all my heart. Thank you for leaving a legacy of beautiful art to remind me of the treasure you held in your dancing fingers. As someone once said, “He paints faster than his brain will allow it to catch up.”

Your memory lives on through your work. I am blessed by your constant and diligent faith. You encouraged me in times of darkness. You set an amazing example for our children through your witness. I love you still, with all my heart, even though this anniversary day will be hard without you here to celebrate.

Thank you, God for the amazing life I had with this man. Thank you for being the cord that joined us so tightly for so long. Amen!

“And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” Ecclesiastes 4:12 ESV

Posted in aging, ENDURING LOVE, life after death | Tagged , , , , , , | 15 Comments

WHO IS IN THE DETAILS . . .

Posted on September 25, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER@

The phrase, “The devil is in the details” was derived from an earlier German proverb which actually translates into “God is in the details”. As I look at the above pencil rendering of a study Paul completed when traveling in the mountains out west, there is an abundance of puzzle pieces in the work. If you look closely, you will see things, real or imaginary, that makes you wonder if it was intentional. Paul liked to hide things in his artwork so that those viewing it might find them or create their own vision of what was hidden. In our daily journey, I am so glad that God is in the details. He has already planned our lives for us. We, of course still make our own choices using the brain power He’s given us. Things may not fall into place the way we plan them, but we can depend on God to give us the direction we need to go on.

Our world is filled with puzzlements of stories yet untold,

Each simple piece will fit somewhere, the complex are pure gold,

Each facet has a shape and life, with joy taking its place,

Joyul to be a part of things, dependent on time and space.

A puzzle, story, a painting, ways we express ourselves,

But soon they become useless things, leaving dust on our shelves,

The pieces that make the work whole, together make it grand,

If we could join all the pieces, just think how strong we’d stand.

We are worth so much more to God than puzzle pieces or pawns on a chessboard. He loves us without any strings attached and gave the greatest sacrifice to bring us back to Him. Now is the time for us to make that choice.

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

WAIT ON THE LORD . . .

Posted on September 24, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & INSPIRATION BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER@

This oil pastel gives the impression of an oasis – a place of rest and refreshment. Nestled within the mountains in the background and surrounded by pine trees, sits a small body of water that will bring refuge and revival. We’ve heard a lot about revival these past few weeks, especially since the assassination of Charlie Kirk. According to the media our nation is returning to church, praying and digging into the Word of God, the Bible. This is a good thing – right? What does it take to get people to come back to God and His teachings and His will for our lives? Is it murder, assassination, hatred, sin of any kind, confusion, chaos and crime? What more can the devil throw at us before we turn back to God? Our journey on this planet is not going to be easy. Jesus told His followers what was ahead for them if they believed in Him and trusted that He was indeed the Son of God.

“Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:29 ESV

Those words carry great weight. Following God will bring criticism, anger, frustration, attacks, unbelief and maybe even your life. Think about the price Christ paid for us on the cross. By the time He reached the cross, He was already bleeding profusely. The Roman Scourge was designed to cut through flesh and make the beating as painful as possible. As he carried the weight of His cross through the streets, He was spat upon, ridiculed and humiliated. Yet He pressed on even as insects infested His wounds. He did that so we would gain eternal life and God’s protection here on earth. He died, as we will die. Yet, on the third day He came back to life as we will also do when we follow Him.

The Jesus narrative isn’t new. It usually comes when people have had it with society, government morality and any number of things. Returning to Christ is easy, but staying with Him often gets lost in the shuffle. This should be a lifetime commitment, which begins in the family and continues through adolescence into middle age and finally as we become senior citizens.

The course will not be easy, but so worth it. If you are confused right now and not sure what to believe, I urge you to start reading the Bible. Visit a church and make sure they are preaching the truth. Study with other Christians. Lean on each other, but don’t forget to pray. The LORD wants to hear from everyone. His door is open 24/7. He loves you so much that He died for you. Do not be led astray by false teaching. The Gospel gives us hope for the future, but the law is necessary, so we know how much we need a Savior. Christ fulfilled the law for us and freely gave His life so we would receive His kingdom.

THANK YOU, JESUS FOR ANOTHER DAY!

Posted in America, art & inspiration from the Boechers, Charlie Kirk, Christian Devotions and Reflection, God, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | Comments Off on WAIT ON THE LORD . . .