SPRING CLEANUP . . .

Posted on May 13, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & INSPIRATION BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Garage Sale signs are popping up all over the place. Some folks use this time of year to declutter and get rid of things so they can go to some of those sales and pick up more clutter to reclutter their homes. In the past eight years, we have gone through the resizing of our living space before we moved to a different home. We’ve since had to reorganize our upstairs because we didn’t use it anymore. It became a storage locker for some of our belongings. After Paul’s death, my children reopened the upstairs for my grandson to move in. Rearranging – reopening – reorganizing – resizing – restoring – etc, etc, etc. Life goes on and we seem to do the same things over and over.

Much like our own lives, we are always in a state of change, no matter what age we are. There are things that need to be tossed because they are no longer useful. Things that we haven’t worn for years now become part of a donation bin. Stuff that has value only to us is the hardest to let go, but there comes a point where we must.

“Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” Luke 6:37-38 ESV

We will undoubtedly be getting rid of more stuff as the days go forward. Our hope is not reliant on things of this world. Jesus was not of this world. Taking on human flesh, He experienced all the concerns we have each day, but He never gave way to sin. He alone is our only hope for salvation. In Christ alone!

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

TURNING BAD INTO GOOD . . .

Posted on May 12, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

It was a few years ago. I’d had a bad day. So bad, that my husband suggested a long drive so I could clear my head and turn the bad into good. I think this was close to the beginning of our precious road trips. We hopped (embellished) into the car and began a long drive to a specific pie shop in Stockholm, WI. It was a favorite spot to visit in the past. We quickly escaped the sounds and sights of Minneapolis and St. Paul and began our entrance into the hills and valleys of Wisconsin. Some of the historic towns along the way called out for us to stop, but we had our sights set on a slice of freshly homemade pie. The scenery was breathtaking.

As the ride continued, I could feel the stress of the day melt from within me. My attitude had changed considerably. I could feel God’s creation wrapping around me and erasing anything that had before made my day miserable. We approached the quaint little town. There is nothing like nature to get you back on track. The town seemed empty, compared to past visits. We arrived at the pie shop and discovered that it was closed. I could’ve turned that moment into another rabbit hole to fall into, but by then it didn’t matter. The frustrations of the early part of that day had vanished into a refreshing outing.

As I get into the car today, I feel alone. My life partner is no longer in the seat beside me – encouraging and lifting me out of a dark pit. Life has changed for me and all those of you who have lost a loved one. Grief is hard. It’s a process that goes on forever, but each day becomes a little easier when you let it. Trusting in God’s promises is essential. He alone will walk beside you every minute of every day.

You’re no longer here beside me,

I miss you every day.

But our God is here to guide me,

And lead me through each day.

It’s hard for me to forget you,

You live within my heart.

In paradise I’ll join with you,

We’ll never be apart.

Posted in anxiety, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY . . .

Posted on May 11, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

My mom grew up during the Great Depression. It was a time of much change in the country. Not only was a World War raging across the sea, but women were put to work in factories. Up until then, they were considered the help mate of the head of the house. But since so many young men had enlisted, this was young women’s way of sharing in the war effort.

To honor moms on just one day, seems inadequate. The profession of homemaker and mother kind of went out with the Brady Bunch and Father Knows Best, when perfectly dressed women went through the tasks that kept the home fires burning without compensation. Personally I think the stay-at-home moms fizzled out with the fight for women’s rights.

My own mother went to work in the professional world when her kids were in high school, giving my sister and me the tasks of developing our homemaking skills. Because of that training, we were able to manage a home and a job when the time came. She still had time to instill other values within us. She was the buffer between us and our dad. She answered questions he couldn’t answer. She stood up for us when he was unreasonable. She wasn’t a stranger to discipline however. I remember her chasing me around the house to spank me with a hairbrush. She finally caught me and with the first swat, the hairbrush broke. We both laughed over that.

She taught me that laughter was important to the soul. She didn’t leave out the fact that God was in charge of our lives. We were just on loan to her until we grew up. She was a lovely woman, always dressed to the nines, hair styled and eyebrows in place. She would get out of bed early so she could apply them. She loved everyone and found the best in even those who weren’t especially loveable.

When my father passed away at the age of 61, she was a widow. She was only 58. She remarried and moved with her new husband to Florida. He was considerably older than her, but he kept her busy with her new life. They traveled and took part in many activities offered to them. Eventually, age caught up with him and mom became his caregiver. When he passed, she began to take care of herself, which included doctoring for her own many maladies. That led to a dependence on pain killers and eventual addiction to the

My sister helped to sell her home and car. She paid to have all her belongings shipped to my home. I was glad to provide a place for her to live. The first few months were difficult as we weaned her off the meds, but after a year or so, she was capable of getting her own apartment and taking care of herself. She was almost the same age as I am now.

In thinking of my own situation right now, I have the greatest respect for this woman. She endowed me with her bright spirit, her compassion, her laughter, her love. I am especially grateful that she introduced me to my Savior at an early age

Words can’t convey my gratitude for those last years of her life. It was like going home.

Posted in Family, Mother's day, parenting, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

TODAY IS NATIONAL TRAIN DAY

Posted on May 10, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Today is National Train Day and tomorrow is Mother’s Day, so I thought I’d combine my post to include both of them. In the olden days, when I was just a girl of 9 and my sister was only 5, we were placed on a train by our parents to visit our grandparents up north in Wisconsin. The fact that we traveled unchaperoned is still a mystery to me. In the modern world, it’s very unusual. Either my parents were very naive. Perhaps their trust level was way beyond the norm. Maybe they paid the conductor to make sure we got to our destination. Maybe they just wanted to get rid of us for the summer. I never asked.

Going to spend the summer with our maternal grandparents was something both my sister and I couldn’t wait for. We felt very sophisticated as we stepped onto that shiny locomotive. The conductor led us to our seats. Of course, I got the window seat because I had seniority. We both watched as the Milwaukee skyline disappeared into the distance, being replaced by magnificent dairy farms and animals grazing. I’ve often said that every child should experience life on the farm at one point or another. It was an extraordinary adventure for both of us.

Grandpa had taken a job with the electric company and turned the farming over to his sons, so he wasn’t home much, but Grandma instilled some lifetime lessons for the time we spent with her. She grew up as a pioneer woman. Her strength in adversity is still a trait I’m working on. She was like a second mother for a few months. My own mother inherited most of those same attributes, and I picked up the baton.

Those train rides were the best. I’ll never forget eating in the dining car. It probably was the start of my observing of people and how they talked, moved and interacted. The best and most important part was the destination at both ends of the ride.

Paul has painted several scenes with trains. In the two I’ve shared today, you can see so much detail. Train travel was the means of getting from place to place when I was growing up. When I took a train trip in my senior year of high school, I would fall in love with the man I married and spent a lifetime with.

HAPPY NATIONAL TRAIN DAY AND HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

The train we boarded was an older model, but it had a club car and a dining car.

Posted in art & inspiration from the Boechers, inspiration., Mother's day, Travel | Tagged , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Thank you Jesus for another week . . .

Posted on May 9, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

This little gem fell into my lap today. An original Paul Boecher watercolor presented to me eight years ago by the artist on my birthday. Paul almost always gifted me with art on special days. As I think about Mother’s Day coming soon, I thank God for the man who made me a mom. Each special occasion reminds me of him. I will love him forever.

I see your face within my dreams.

It never leaves my aching heart.

I hear you voice, at least it seems.

In quiet whispers you impart.

As time goes by I can’t erase?

The loss I feel from dawn ’til dark,

And then the tears run down my face.

The sobs then come to make their mark.

As days fly by I turn to God.

Knowing full well that He is there ,

To dry my tears, as on I trod.

He walks me home so we can share . . .

THE JOYOUS GIFT OF HEAVEN!

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, death, Dreams, Uncategorized | 9 Comments

SQUIRELLY TALES – STUBBY

Posted on May 9, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

I’m switching gears today since it’s Friday. I’m using this day to post something different. Humor has always been part of my life. I also enjoy telling stories. So, I will begin with this chapter of Squirrel Tales. Stubby is one of my favorite squirrels to watch from my window. He’s the most recognizable because of his short tale. He’s also very funny.

It’s that time of year again. Spring has sprung, the grass is riz. I wonder where the flowers is. Oh, yeah, I know that’s an old one, but you have to give me credit for being educated. Listen, I know squirrels are kind of low on the skill set, but I actually did make it through one year of squirrel pre-school. My name is Stubby. There’s a reason for that. My tail is half the size it used to be. I won’t go into details, because the story is too traumatic even for me. Let’s just say I had an encounter with a snowplow and leave it at that. I used to be called, Woodsy Guy by the owners of the tree I live in. I felt like a very important squirrel because of it. Wouldn’t you?

That nice old couple who own that tree have been very diligent about keeping the bird feeders full to the brim, but lately they’ve been making our work a little harder. At first, it was a breeze making it up that pole leading to my breakfast. Then one day they added a cone to keep me from getting past that lay ahead. I made it as far as the cone with my superior climbing skills, but then it was curtains for me. Did you ever try climbing a cone? I mean it takes way more intelligence than you think. It wasn’t too long before I realized I was wearing the wrong shoes. I sped over to the nearby shoe store and stuffed my squirrely feet into a pair of climbing shoes with suction cups on them. After an interesting and slow walk back to my neighborhood tree, I finally made it to the waiting feast.

Humans can be very resourceful too. After beginning my ascent up the pole, I encountered a slippery slope. They greased the pole, making it impossible for me to climb. I must’ve given them a great source of entertainment as I gracefully slid from top to bottom in a flash. In fact, they even held up signs that had numbers on them, from zero to ten. The old woman always gave me a five for effort. The old man never went over zero. That fellow had no time for squirrels. At least those of us wearing special shoes.

My days have since changed and so has my diet. I no longer search for birdseed. I’ve moved up to collecting and storing nuts. Now if I could just remember where I put them.

Posted in Humor, Nature, seasons, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , | 1 Comment

REFLECTIONS . . .

Posted on May 8, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Another houseboat painting which shows the art of reflecting light. Paul was a master at finding the light. Many times he would photograph a site in order to capture the moment. Then he would continue to paint on the spot, sometimes referring to the photo, other times winging it. He had a beautiful mind and I trust that God is using Paul’s talents in heaven now.

When darkness fills my sleeping hours and fears surround each hour,

When good news turns to deep concern and makes my day grow sour.

When perils of each passing day invade my tear filled eyes,

I wonder if God hears my prayers or does he hear my cries?

Confusion rages in my thoughts,   I try to lift the load.

But it’s too heavy for these arms which now are turning old.

My mind is going up and down, like waves that fill the sea,

The turbulence is far too much for one like little me.

The world is throwing challenges from every single port,

The wars still rage and hate abounds we can’t begin to sort,

The answers seem to disappear, when they begin to form,

The shadows of a broken life leave nothing but a storm.

As hard as we may try to win, the struggles we must fight,

Trials cannot by us be won.  Our dreams soon take to flight.

And when it seems impossible, that’s when God shows His face,

He reaches out to calm our fears, He cuddles us with grace.

Instead it would be easier to let God take that role,

To trust in His unfailing love, for things we can’t control.

To turn them over to the Lord, and trust He’ll find a way,

To give us rest and confidence to live another day.

Posted in anxiety, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on REFLECTIONS . . .

BEACHED . . .

Posted on May 7, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

This sweet watercolor depicts some rugged old canoes sitting on the shoreline, waiting to get back in the water. Weather is always an issue in Minnesota. It can be the dreariest time of year, but when the waters open up and spring displays its beauty, those canoes will get another chance to prove themselves.

We are much like those anxious boats – waiting and waiting and dreaming of better days. Longing for peace. Desiring a change of pace, answers to problems that keep mounting up. Feeling somewhat useless or purposeless. The beauty of the changing seasons resembles our walk in life. Spring is like a second chance. We need to make the most of it because life is so short.

It’s hard to wait. The thought of waiting for heaven is similar as we grow into the winter of our years. Time is running out. Bodies are aging. Minds aren’t as sharp as they used to be. Even in those latter years God has a purpose and use for us here on earth. we continue to serve God. We get closer and closer to the finish line. Because of what Jesus did when He came to live with us, we know that what’s waiting for us on the other side of life is a perfect existence where our patience will be rewarded.

Cool, refreshing waters wash up on an empty, tranquil beach,

The final days of summer have washed over us and we are spent,

Our days pass so quickly as we grow old – or not at all,

Time escapes and ends up somewhere in infinity,

Still there is hope,

For those in their final years,

For the broken,

The crushed,

The weary,

The lonely,

There is a fresh beginning right around the corner,

New start,

New hopes,

New goals to reach,

New people to meet

New adventures to make,

New life,

Live it.

Posted in patience, seasons, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

GIGI’S GREAT ADVENTURE

Posted on May 6, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

Today, instead of art and poetry, I’m featuring my first road trip in a long, long time. We started out with hazy skies and a misty rain all the way to Wisconsin to celebrate my brother-in-law’s life – the last in a marathon of celebrations. The rain made the drive easier since we were traveling into the sun. I’m sure many of you remember the road trips that Paul and I pursued last year. This was a three-day event. My son-in-law was the Uber driver. Passengers consisted of my daughter, their daughter, her infant son and me, Gigi.

Getting into a pickup truck might have been an interesting side-bar, but I’ll leave that to your imagination. No camp songs. No sightseeing. Just an uneventful 350 mile drive from Minnesota to Milwaukee, WI. We made one stop, which was sufficient, even for this almost 83 year old great grandma. Our first stop was to check in to the hotel, meet up with the rest of our immediate tribe and

After checking into our hotel, we met the rest of the tribe and found a place to eat. When we’d go out to eat with are young family, we would each try to place a spoon on our nose. I never could do it since my nose has a definite slide to it. My kids tried, but the photo indicates that oldest daughter accomplished the feat. She cheated though, by tucking the spoon under her glasses.

Family time is always the best. Being separated by miles, we don’t see much of each other, so it’s a pleasure when we do. After attending the memorial service, we took a side trip to take a look at the old Froemming Boecher Funeral Home. The building has been totally remodeled and doesn’t resemble the building where Paul lived as a child. The Time of Grace Ministry purchased the property and along with St. Marcus Lutheran Church now spans an entire city block. Another interesting connection. Paul’s family was actively involved in this majestic gothic Lutheran church. Paul even rang the bells as a young boy. The interior of the church was recently remodeled and contains the altar, baptismal font and pulpit which has to be reached by climbing stairs. Those elements came from my home church on the other side of Milwaukee. I recall looking up at the pastor as a child with the fear of fire and brimstone coming down on me. It is interesting how Paul and my lives were connected before we even knew each other.

The celebration continued with the reunion of so many friends and relatives. Stories about the past led to much embellishment and fodder for future stories, scripts and memories. The day passed quickly with lots of hugs and tears.

The farms of Wisconsin created a beautiful backdrop on the way back home. Skies were brilliant blue with a few fluffy clouds drifting by. Sandstone cliffs and interesting rock formations popped up. Lakes appeared along with various rivers. The majestic rolling hills of Wisconsin, the cows, horses and sheep in the pastures all contributed to a lovely journey home.

The blessings I’ve received over the past four months have been countless. I achieved my Gigi wings. I’ve been blessed by my immediate family. through their support and help. My theatre troupe has been amazing. My friends are unbelievable in their love and compassion. Above all, my Lord has given me the strength and courage to live as Paul would have wanted me to. I thank Him for giving me another day.

Posted in Daily inspiration and devotions, Travel, Uncategorized, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

ONE LIFE LEAVES – NEW LIFE BEGINS

Posted on May 5, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

God’s plan for the circle of life remains intact. These three photos show how two grieving widows (My sister, Carol and me) embracing a new life of seven months. My first great grandson has warmed and comforted the hearts of this family since he first entered the world.

I am so grateful that Great Grandpa Paul had three months to get to know him and instill his love for Jesus in his heart. Oh, the things they could’ve enjoyed together.

Posted in aging, eternal life, New life | Tagged , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

SO, NOW WHAT?

Posted on May 5, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & INSPIRATION BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

It has been a long journey these past four months. My sister’s husband passed away on Christmas Day and my husband followed him a week later on New Year’s Day. Both my sister and I knew the time was coming. There’s never complete knowledge of where or when, but we had our final celebration of life this past weekend. As friends and loved ones fall asleep in our heavenly Father’s arms – as those of us who remain, struggle with various physical ailments – as we age and become helpless when we used to be strong – as our worldly expenses exceed our meager income – what’s next?

All through our lives, we place death on the back burner praying that it eludes us.  When we’re young we never think about it.  We feel invincible – as though we can do anything, conquer the world, live forever.  As we mature into our middle age, we’re almost too busy to think about it.  Our lives are now full of responsibility and demands which require our constant attention.  When the nest is empty we turn our thoughts to retirement and the bounty of time we’ll have on our hands to travel or enjoy life to the max.  Death rarely enters our mind at this point either.

Then reality sets in.  The years begin to take their toll.  Your body has lost its elasticity.  Your bones are becoming brittle.  Your mind is playing nasty tricks on you as your memory is slowly shrinking.  Every ache and pain is a reminder of your mortality. My God has sustained me through this life. He has walked with me through trials, loss, pain and fear.  He has carved out the perfect plan for me even though I often thought it was the wrong one.  His promise of eternal life is not just empty words. 

The thought of leaving those we love behind crushes the spirit.  There is so much we want to teach them – so much wisdom we can share – so much of ourselves yet to be passed on, but when we leave this earth, we leave a great legacy if we’ve shared our Savior with those who remain.  They will carry on your love.  You’ve planted the seeds within them and even though the memory of you will fade, they will never forget what God has given them through you.

Every day God gives us on this planet is a time of God’s mercy – a time to live for Him – a time to share His love with others – a span of years which will live on through others.

Posted in Uncategorized | 2 Comments

TIME OUT . . .

Posted on May 2, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

I will be taking a short break, but I’ll be back

ART BY PAUL BOECHER

Taking a short break, but I’ll be back.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , | 10 Comments

THE MERRY MONTH OF MAY . . .

Posted on May 1, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Today is the first May. It has been four months since the love of my life has gone to heaven – where time is not measured as it is on earth – where life continues in a perfect place – where no thoughts, worries or concerns fill the mind. Where God dwells. Perfection.

We all need Jesus to remind us that He was not of this world. He came from that paradise to live with us. To suffer, to laugh, to teach, to feel everything we feel, yet He is part of that perfection called heaven. Our 24 hours a day continue for those left behind. Our days and nights put us in a race to that special destination. When part of us dies and we remain, pain continues until we join them there.

Thank you, Jesus for another day.

A haze entrenched sky,

Sprinkles a minute amount of light,

Upon the mighty river’s edge,

Capturing reflections,

Dispensing shadows,

Displaying an array of natural color,

The remnant of a fallen tree rests frozen in a mass of crystal shards,

But today is a new beginning as each day should be,

Today the waters have returned,

God’s finger has opened them,

The first of May,

Transition time.

Time to sweep out the cobwebs of winter,

To lift the veil of anticipation.

And look ahead,

To days of warmth,

Rapture,

Lazy days of summer

To reach heights never dreamed of,

To find renewal,

To live.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, life after death, seasons, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | 3 Comments

LORD, YOU ARE MY ROCK . . .

Posted on April 30, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

“The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” Psalm 18:2 ESV

One year, my husband gave me a rock for my birthday. My first inclination was to think of Charlie Brown on Halloween, as he went trick or treating with his friends. Everyone collected their treats, but poor old Charlie would receive a rock from each place. Then I looked closely at the rock I had been given. It was carefully engraved in ink with a portion of Proverbs 31:10-31. I have had this sitting on a windowsill in my kitchen for many years. I treasure it now, because it is such a reminder of how special this man was. The rock reminds me that God has remained my rock throughout my marriage.

The years and the sun have taken their toll on this precious gift. Many of the letters have faded, but the memory lingers. Paul knew the strength of God. It helped him to survive so much in life. He knew the power that God displayed in what seemed to be impossible circumstances. He loved the Lord first, and all the rest was added to him.

Several years had gone by since that gift was given. I since discovered that Paul always carried a rock in his pocket to keep reminding of God’s majesty, His Power and strength. In fact, he gave the one he carried to a young man who was going to be deployed soon and away from his family. Paul told the man that God had always been his rock and fortress, so he asked him to carry it. The man returned home and gave the rock back to Paul along with a gift of his own. Along with a remembrance, the best thing Paul recalled that the true power of God’s protection came from God, the Rock of his salvation.

As we went through Paul’s many collections, we found many of these rocks. His art displayed the majesty of God’s creation. His work with young people gave him an opportunity to share his love for God. His adventures across the country gave him a chance to talk about Jesus. His zeal for the Word of God was a rock for so many individuals that he touched in his life. He taught me how to rely on God to get me on the right track. I would give a million rocks to hold his hand again – to let him know what he meant to me – to lean on – to love, but I know that day will come when I join him in paradise.


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

THE ANOKA FEED MILL . . .

Posted on April 29, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

The Anoka Feed Mill has been independently operating for more than three generations. The family farm of Ernest Petersen was established in 1945 with a focus on grain and feed products. It is bordered by the Rum River on one side and the Anoka Police Department on the other. The remnants of unused silos is also located there. Certainly, a delightful location for the plein air artist. Paul did many of these “on location” paintings in 2014. This was the year we moved from Northeast Minneapolis to the historical town of Anoka.

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

It stands like a sentry, so tall and so bold,
It’s worn out by time and is now growing old,
But still it stands faithful to those that it serves,
Tradition from years gone by, it still preserves,
When silos are empty and barns lose their class,
We know that our own death will soon come to pass,
And what do we leave in that sweet after glow,
To dust we return when our last breath does flow,
But Jesus is waiting, for every last one,
To hold and refresh them by what He has done,
So death has no power – new life is assured,
The price has been paid by the pain He endured.
He overcame death on that first Easter day,
Defeating the devil, He took sin away,

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

THE OLD, ROUND, RED BARN . . .

Posted on April 28, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Round barns became popular for dairy farmers between 1890 and 1920. Their design enabled cows to point their heads to the center and feed from the central trough attached to a silo. The back end of the cow was then in a better position to be milked. They were more expensive to build and the geometry involved in the design didn’t always sit well with the builders. There are still a few of them dotting rural landscapes. We have one near us that’s been restored and reused by local artisans. Paul and his plein air group used it as an outdoor painting location. The painting you see is one that he completed on one of those destinations.

Many of his sketch books are filled with drawings of various barns. Farms played a part in both of our early years. Paul spent summers working on a farm near the family summer home. I traveled by train with my sister to spend the summers with our grandparents in an agricultural setting. I think every child should have that experience.

The old, round barn had seen better days. A paintbrush might light up her face. The outside attracted highest praise, but inside she was a disgrace.

We’re not much different than this old barn. We might cover our sins with our works. Inside hearts falter and cause us harm. Satan moved in there and he still lurks.

Our hope is in Jesus – God’s own Son. He paid the full ransom for our sin. He bought our redemption with His blood. Our hearts are cleansed without and within.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, eternity, God's promises, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

WAVES . . .

Posted on April 27, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

This piece of art was done as part of Paul’s re-enactment presentation as a frontier artist. An example of Northwest Coast Native art, we see a wild bird painted with waves of color, twists and turns, organized design and beauty in motion. There is a comparison here as to the waves we face through each day – especially when we lose someone we love. The emotions come and go like fierce, tumultuous waves. Sometimes it’s a memory. Other times it can be a feeling of anger or frustration. Tears fall at the most inopportune times, but then, when is it the perfect time to weep?

You have been gone from my life for a few months, my love

Yet, in the length of a sixty year marriage, it’s just a small chunk of time.

Those last few months of your life were spent worrying, fretting, planning, fearing and longing for the journey to end.

It wasn’t yet time for you to pass to eternal glory.

We shared time as we had never done before. We discussed things that we wish we had done. We reminisced about our growth as a couple. We visited little out of the way places to refresh us in a small way. We planned for the future, not knowing if there would be one.

You hung on. So did I. We hugged, we cried, we got angry and frustrated. Our love for each other never waivered. Eventually those times were left to oblivion. As you faced your final breath, I deeply exhaled, knowing that you were now with our Savior. I know I will be too when it’s time. The memories of a lifetime have been stored for future reference. Each day I recall one or two or more highlights of our days together.

You were my greatest earthly blessing – the love of my life – my inspiration – my encourager. You will remain in my heart forever.

Thank you, Jesus for loaning this wonderful human being to me for a lifetime, and for giving me the assurance that we will be together again someday.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, eternal life, grief | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on WAVES . . .

THE BEAR SHALL GRAZE . . .

Posted on April 26, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

“The wolf shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the young goat,
and the calf and the lion and the fattened calf together; and a little child shall lead them.
the cow and the bear shall graze; their young shall lie down together; and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. The nursing child shall play over the hole of the cobra, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the adder’s den. They shall not hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain; for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.”

isaiah 11:6-9 ESV

This painting was not done on site. I pray that Paul wasn’t this close to the animal while he was doing a portrait of his face. Paul shot this bear at close range, but it was a bear that had been shot a couple years prior to this, by one of his best friends. Obviously, it had survived to see another day. I imagine that the bear was photographed in Paul’s memory at one of those two events for future painting. Paul had a few pieces of jewelry that were engraved with the image of a bear paw. He had great respect for these large animals that would fiercely defend their young cubs if they were harassed. I recall a trip to Yellowstone, when we hiked with cowbells to keep the bears aware that we were coming.

The Bible verses in Isaiah are painting a beautiful commentary on what God’s kingdom will be like. It will be a place where everyone gets along with each other. It will be perfect in every way. Through the Gospel, we have been redeemed by God’s perfect Son and reconciled to become members of this amazing place as heirs to the kingdom.

I often wonder what heaven will be like. I don’t expect to be floating around on a cloud. I don’t think there will be a Starbucks where all of those who have passed, gather to tell stories. I believe it is beyond our wildest imagination. I believe this collection of verses from the prophet of old, is intended for us to look forward to a perfect life, where hate and anger do not exist. Where tears and fears no longer occur. Where pain and suffering have been healed by the Son of God through His amazing grace.

We may have days of fear and dread – our hearts may wish that they were dead,

A lifetime filled with pain and loss – we wonder why we bear this cross,

But God’s compassion for His fold – a thing of beauty to behold,

He holds us tightly in His hands = It’s true! He always understands,

So, when my days on earth are done – I’ll be with Him, the victory’s won,

Perfection lays before my feet – I’ll walk upon a golden street,

No harm befalls me on the way – I cannot wait for that sweet day.

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

THE WAY . . .

Posted on April 25, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

There are many twists and turns in life. Some reach the epitome of excitement and joy, while others can drag us into a pit of despair. Even in the darkest corners, God is there to show us the way.

You walked the path of life for me – You suffered for my loss.

You sacrificed Your own dear Son, upon an ugly cross.

You did this for a worm like me, You gave to me your best

Now I can walk that road to You and in Your arms find rest.

I don’t deserve this precious gift. I don’t deserve Your love.

I’ve spat upon this Son of Yours who came from Heaven above.

I’ve scorned Him as did men of old. The scourge I laid on Him.

The nails that pinned Him to the tree, were placed there with my sin.

The story didn’t end that day. It just began, you see.

For Jesus, Christ, the Son of God, returned to life for me.

The flesh that once was bruised and scorned and broken now is whole.

He conquered death – He rose again – He saved my dying soul.

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Encouragement | Tagged , , , , , , | 8 Comments

ABANDONED . . .

Posted on April 24, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

Paul loved anything having to do with water sports. He also enjoyed painting various crafts he saw along the Mississippi River as he searched for just the perfect setting. If this abandoned houseboat could talk, it would have many stories to tell. When we feel abandoned, let’s not forget that God is right there with us through every trial we face.

The old houseboat still maintained a look of elegance even though paint was chipped and faded – the bough battered slightly from constant pushing against a battered shoreline,

She sat quietly moored under the wispy trees which lined the river – softly banging against the disintegrating pier,

How many years had passed since her maiden voyage?

How many months had slipped by since she cut stealthily through the rolling current?

She sits untouched – idle – lonely – forgotten – devoid of life.

Oh that the walls could speak and tell us of the days gone by.

Imagine the parties, the celebrations, the intimate, secret rendezvous.

Imagine the parties, the celebrations, the intimate, secret rendezvous.

Promises made and vows broken.  Lives changed for just a fleeting moment,

As she carried them downstream, washing their troubles away in an instant,

Did her life end when those who lived there did?  We’ll never know.

Only that she kisses the river’s edge now instead of cutting through its current.

Posted in anxiety, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Jesus | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments