CONFERRING WITH THE FLOWERS . . .

Posted on August 17, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

His Word sustains me every day within its splendid pages.

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

SKETCHBOOK STUDIES . . .

Posted on August 16, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & INSPIRATION FROM PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on August 15, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

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

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

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

I once went to a picture show,

With popcorn, treats and drink in tow,

Reclined in leather seat was I,

I thought I’d died and closed one eye,

The dreams of sleep soon overtook,

I fell asleep, felt like a schnook,

Around me bombs were falling fast,

I was part of a movie cast.

Guns were firing and blood ran red,

I realized I wasn’t in my bed,

When woken by a gentle nudge,

I reached around to find my fudge,

Melted into my jacket there,

Because of that infernal chair.

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

LOOKING BACK AT THIS WEEK . . .

Posted on August 15, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

EACH PASSING DAY . . .

Posted on August 14, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

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

When I grow weary from the weight of life,

When every step becomes a heavy strife,

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

The path is full of obstacles untold,

Each pothole, crag and deep embedded crack,

Becomes too much for this old, weary back,

But God is there at every twist and turn,

To lift me up when heavy troubles churn,

To take the weight and soften every sting,

To wash away my tears and make me sing,

He’s with me everywhere I go,

Because my Jesus loves me, this I know!

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

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

Posted on August 13, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

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

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

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

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

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

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

BEAUTIFUL CREATION . . .

Posted on August 13, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER ©

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

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

Left to the hands of the Potter.

He pushes and prods with the strength of His hands

He manipulates with the tenderness of His fingers

And creates something recognizable.

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

A human form, with flesh and blood.

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

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

Alone – no life – unanimated – uninspired.

The creation is led by its own desires and passions.

It wanders aimlessly through its unknown existence.

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

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

Because it has not yet been exposed to the Light.

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

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

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

Polishes and finishes.

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

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

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

CONTRAST . . .

Posted on August 12, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER©

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

The blending of positive and negative space,

Mixed with a spattering of color here and there,

Together they become united, apart they fall,

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

Throw away their bias and indifference towards one another,

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

To see each other as part of a huge tapestry,

Of interwoven threads,

Each an integral part of the greater picture,

The one which unfolds each day,

With people unconcerned about skin tones,

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

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

When we look at those around us?

Posted in Uncategorized | 3 Comments

FOLLOW WHERE HE LEADS . . .

Posted on August 11, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ORIGINAL ART & POETRY FROM PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

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

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

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

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

Our final destination is not one we should fear,

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

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

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

Defending us, protecting from those who would devour,

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

He suffered and was crucified to set our spirits free,

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

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

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

GRAY SKIES ARE GONNA CLEAR UP . . .

Posted on August 10, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

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


As I travel through life’s darkest moments,

When all around me is unfamiliar ground,

When the sound of silence engulfs me.

and pierces the everyday sound,

There in the midst of it all,

There with wings unfurled,

With pinions uncut,

With strength and dominion,

He will lift me out of the darkness,

He will protect me from the dangers of life,

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

I will not fear the terrors of night,

Or the dangers that lie at every corner,

He will comfort my tangled soul,

He will shield me from all harm,

And I will soar with the eagles.

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

SOUNDS OF SILENCE . . .

Posted on August 9, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ORIGINAL ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

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


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

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

Where waters blue surround us, where peace is everywhere,

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

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

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

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

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

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

FREAKY FUNNY FRIDAY . . .

Posted on August 8, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

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

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

On the topic of Moses:

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

YOU CAN’T HIDE FROM GOD . . .

Posted on August 8, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

There are times we just want to hide from everyone and everything. We retreat to a room, a park, a forest, a closet, a beautiful scene in nature. “We want to be alone,” as Marlene Dietrich once said. She didn’t like the notoriety that came with her career as an actress. When photographers would approach her for another close up, she’d say this very thing.

The painting for today might have something hidden. Paul would often create paintings that had people, critters or things hiding somewhere within. Maybe you can fine something in this one. We can hide from the people or situations we don’t want to face. We can run to a sanctuary – a place – a closet – a forest that will shield us from others, but there is no hiding from our Creator, Omnipresent, God. He will find us even when we endeavor to go somewhere else for refuge. We’re reminded of this in the book of Hebrews 4:13 (ESV)

“And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account.”

Those are hefty words, which remind us of our obligation to confess our sins to God daily. Nothing is hidden from Him, but He demands that we come to Him, rather than hiding. He is our refuge, our strength, our mainstay in all situations. He loves it when we come to Him.

A hiding place where no one knows or sees or hears the truth,

A place where you can tuck away the trespasses of youth,

When hearts submit to God’s sweet call to come and be with Him,

Those sins will soon be washed away and we can dwell within,

For God is our true shelter, He loves us as we are,

When hidden in His sacrifice, we won’t stray very far,

Our sins have been forgiven, Our path has been made clear,

The Lord of Heaven saved us, with His own Son, most dear.

Don’t try to hide from Jesus, He’ll never let you go,

He loves and understands you, He dwelt with men you know,

He knows our every problem, He feels our every pain,

But through His sweet compassion, His loss was for our gain.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, God's will, Uncategorized, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , | Comments Off on YOU CAN’T HIDE FROM GOD . . .

SUN KISSED . . .

Posted on August 7, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

Yesterday was the first day back in my garden for quite a while. The weeds are thriving with all the rain, humidity and steamy air, so it was a full day of pulling weeds. I grew up in the city – an apartment dweller for most of those years. The only flowers were those brought home by dad for mom on Mother’s Day, Valentines Day, or their anniversary. There may have been a scraggly houseplant here and there, but never a full-sized garden. The things we thought we’d never do, may change over time. Those alterations tend to shape us.

I never dreamed I’d write poetry someday. I didn’t realize I could be a good mother. I wasn’t confident in speaking one on one with others. I struggled at being a good wife. We all have things that we feel we’re not good at or capable of doing. I’ve learned in many years of living, that if we don’t try, we’ll never know if we can or cannot do anything. Traveling through life we learn many lessons. God provides challenges for us. If we can overcome the little things, we move on to bigger obstacles. It’s all part of the growing up process which I hope I never do.

Being in my garden is therapeutic for me. It is time when I can hear the voice of God all around me – in the songs of the birds, the smell of newly mown grass, the discovery of an ant colony that busily works together. I can see His handiwork throughout the entire process. When seeds grow into flowers, new life comes with it. Pulling weeds can be like yanking out some of the ickiness of a bad day. Search for your gifts. You may be surprised that even those things that you thought were liabilities can be useful. You have so much to give this world. We need people like you to shape the future. You can do so by using your gifts for the benefit of others.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THANK YOU, JESUS, FOR ANOTHER DAY

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

CLIFF HANGER . . .

Posted on August 6, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

This watercolor painting could’ve been done along the St. Croix River. It may have been near the rocky cliffs that line the Mississippi River. It could be on the North Shore of Minnesota. Cliffs are a dramatic demonstration of erosion. Waves crashing against rock eventually causes these breath-taking formations.

Most of the weekly television shows are designed to draw the viewer back for the next episode. In the early days of silent movies, this type of writing seemed to thrive. There was often a “cliff hanger” at the end to encourage the viewer to return. An example would be Sweet Polly Purebred tied to the railroad tracks with a train on the way. Suddenly the words, THE END would appear, leaving the audience wanting more.

For us, each day brings a new beginning. A story unfolds. There’s a specific pattern that follows. At the end of the day, we aren’t always sure where the next one will lead us. When our direction shifts and we follow a different path, it can also leave us on edge. When we put our trust in God, there is no question as to the outcome. We are His handiwork, His creation, those whom He loves unconditionally. He will not leave us hanging. His promises are always kept. They are always intended for our good. Tomorrow is another day. Thank Him for all of them.

It was at the height of it’s opulence, a city from of old,
It commanded respect and attention, its streets were paved with gold,
It shone like the brilliant sun in the sky, reflecting its bright rays,
Within the dark shadows secrets survived, infecting all the days.

The brilliance soon disappeared from all sight, as darkness slithered in,
No one realized what was happening, knew nothing of this sin,
The ominous shadows penetrated the brilliance of the day,
Corruption and greed encapsulated and sent the good away.

That once shining and glorious city, no longer casts its light,
What remains are shards of days long ago, decay, great loss and blight,
If only the fire had been overseen, by those within her gate,
Perhaps a flame would rise from the embers, and new life would create.

We should learn from our own sweet history, but we often fail the test,
We think that we have the perfect answers, we think that we know best,
Instead of trusting our almighty God, we struggle and we fall,
Still patience abides in His gracious love, His love is meant for all.

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

REDEMPTIVE WATERS . . .

Posted on August 5, 2025 by atimetoshare.me


ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

The watercolor painting I’m sharing today was done at the Coon Rapids Dam. I live in one of the first towns established in Minnesota. It’s the birthplace of Garrison Keillor. Born on August 7, 1942, in Anoka, Minnesota, he became a familiar radio voice on “A Prairie Home Companion.” The beauty of this area is that it doesn’t take long to get from place to place. There are a number of historic sites around us. You can take a drive and soon find yourself in farm country with houses few and far between. I love this painting, because it shows that mankind can restrain waters from flooding by using dams, but they didn’t create those waters. We can try to hold back tears, but they will come in buckets at times. God, in all His glory, created this and every planet with just a word. Dams will need repair from time to time in order to work properly. Our hearts need to be repaired too, but only God can do that.


You speak, Lord and the mountains listen,
You open your hand and the power of rushing water jets from their walls,
The cliffs bow down to you,
How majestic is your name in all the world,
Within your fingers you carve the granite into flowage for water,
With one word, you contain those rushing rivers into glasslike lakes,
Your voice holds majesty and steadfastness and all the angels praise your holy name,
With your breath, we are inspired,
Your eyes survey your creation,
What once was good is now spoiled,
But still you maintain control over it,
Not a word or action goes unnoticed,
Not a prayer goes unheard,
Your ever presence comforts and protects us,
The mountains lay low at the sound of your voice,
You command water to spring from barren land,
And it heeds,
You say the word and your will is done,
In spite of us,
Where can we hide from you?
Why would we try?
Let me run to you instead of away,
Lead my steps straight to your waiting arms,
Let me rest in your unfailing love.

Dear, Creator, God, You know this world and all its faults. In spite of that you love us. You look at us and see your Son, Jesus and the price he paid for our redemption. Soothe the hearts of those who mourn – of those in pain – of those caring for the sick and dying – for the weak and weary – for those who don’t yet know you – and bring us peace. Amen!

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

A SHORT STORY . . . RESTORATION

Posted on August 4, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART FROM THE SKETCH BOOK OF PAUL BOECHER – FICTION BY KATHY BOECHER

This story is a result of sitting in front of my computer screen and trying to fill my time.

The small town was filled with a putrid smoke.  It lingered in the air for more than a week.  The sounds of death resounded from the quaint village of Murphy’s Valley. Time stood still for a while as bodies were transported in a hearse that might not endure the journey to the cemetery. Tears were not lacking.  Life was taking a vacation while this untimely virus invaded city after city.  It wasn’t long before the disease was referred to as an epidemic. People were required to quarantine. Memories of a past plague poured into the minds of each surviving citizen.  Maybe someone had committed a grave sin causing the germs to merged into the homes of the unsuspecting. This unexplainable hazard was different than the last somehow.  Each breath was met by a mask.  It had been five years since they last had to do that.  Many refused as others accpted the requirement.

The air remained stiff and unmovable into the next month.  Fifteen more had their lives taken from them.  There were some who had not even begun to live.  Seven children, two teens and six adults was the latest count in this town with a population of 536. It was dropping further each day.

John and Mary McDermott had just become husband and wife a week before this demon reared its ugly head.  Mary couldn’t endure the toxic air and fell victim to its long spindly arms as they choked the life from her.  John was beside himself.  He had waited for 35 years to find the right woman to marry and now she was gone.  It was probably the shortest marriage on record for Murphy’s Valley.

Each of the stories connected to these events were carved like chiseled scars into a tree.  Sapping the life from each and leaving behind emptiness unknown to them. The virus didn’t discriminate.  The young and old were affected.  Those they left behind would face years of grieving over a brand new form of death.

Jay Barber walked from his home to the town hall in hopes of receiving a vaccination to fight against the disease. He was told they had not discovered any kind of treatment for this horror.  Sally Harmon, drove around town trying to locate masks for her family.  Others stocked up on essentials that would get them through the next month.  The shelves were almost empty and no shipments were expected for another few weeks. It was a grave reminder of five years ago as goods were stockpiled for the COVID19 Apocalypse.

The familiar, broken down hearse from Jennings Funeral Home, made its way up the hill to everyone’s surprise.  This would add to the population adjustment.

Days turned into weeks and weeks into months.  No word of a cure.  People grew tired of staying inside. They needed face to face contact again.  They needed to see body language and hear real words spoken.  Phones and pagers were discarded.  Computer screens went black.  This wasn’t going to be a rerun of five years ago.  Determination and grit became the words of the day as people tempted their own destiny by reaching out to others.  The single church in the center of town was filling up, even though they weren’t supposed to gather.  People hugged.  They cried.  They sang hymns of praised and prayed long hard prayers.  They slept in the church that night.

The sun began to burn off the everpresent haze.  Death stopped as new life was invigorated into the people.  The virus was unworldly. No one had ever experienced this horrid disease that knew no boundaries. Maybe it wasn’t a virus at all.

Posted in ART & FICTION BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER, ART & POETRY BY THE BOECHERS, pandemic | Tagged , , , , , , | Comments Off on A SHORT STORY . . . RESTORATION

I WANT MY MOMMY . . .

Posted on August 4, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Today’s watercolor shows the bend of a river as it flows gently through a treed landscape. It gives me a sense of comfort, as all of Paul’s art does. Focusing on the beauty in life is not only helpful, but it also becomes a necessity as daily problems arise. Those issues don’t give us warning. They just happen. You park your car on the street and get sideswiped. The damage is minimal, but the driver’s door refuses to unlock or open. You must rely on others to get you where you need to go. You hear in the Sunday sermon about the treasure of heaven and not placing your trust in things of this world as your bank account is slowly draining. You try to keep busy, but the air outside won’t allow you to because of smoke drifting in from Canada. There are chores to be done inside, but you’d much rather be working in your garden. You feel alone, even though you aren’t. You wander through each day, trying to cope but you don’t. You could easily fall into depression, but God tells you not to.

Each of these scenarios could sap your energy to the point of giving up, but your mind drifts back to your younger days, when mom always had the right words.

My mother was a wonderful lady who had to endure so much loss and pain in her life.  She was sister to seven others and lost five of them in her lifetime to tragic accidents or terminal disease.  Her father suffered terrible strokes.  Her mother wore out and gave up life at 76.  Her husband died at 61 of cancer.  He hung on for two years of chemotherapy and unbearable pain.  She married again and had to endure the death of that husband as well.  She always maintained a positive attitude in all her circumstances and was a great role model for my sister and I.  When she finally faced her last hours, she was ready to die, but she still clung to it until the very end.  I still miss her every day.

There is great comfort in having someone special to go to when things just aren’t going the way they should. Now that I’m having to rely on myself to make the right decisions, I would just love to have one more conversation with mom. I know that God will be there too, but there’s something about talking face to face with someone.

I wonder what my mom would say if she could see our world today.

She wouldn’t fret or cry  or sweat.  She’d say, “Some things you must forget.

The world will always be this way.  Tomorrow is another day.”

She’d talk of days of long ago and how they were the same, you know.

She’d say, “It’s best to look ahead instead of crying for the dead.

We still are living, breathing souls – we must go on amidst all foes.

Our Savior will protect us!”

I’m 83 years old. I still want my mommy. I feel alone. I trust in God’s constant attention to my needs and life. I will wait on the LORD. He will calm my fears. He will help me focus on the good things He has given me. Many of those who have influenced my journey are now in heaven, but I know that I am not alone.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Christian daily devotion, fears, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , | 8 Comments

CHURCH – YES OR NO . . .

Posted on August 3, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

The number of excuses for not attending church is unending.

  • Everyone acts one way in church and another every other day of the week.
  • I’ve got a meal to prepare.
  • I don’t have time.
  • Church makes me feel uncomfortable about myself.
  • I don’t like all the formality of worship.
  • I can worship anywhere.
  • It’s a beautiful day and I’ve already booked my tee time.
  • I deserve one day to sleep in.

Add these

  • I study my Bible every day.
  • I don’t need to make an outward show of my beliefs on Sunday.
  • I have accepted Jesus, I don’t have to do anything else.
  • I lead a good life.
  • I don’t need to hear how bad I am.
    • Church is filled with hypocrites.
    • It’s too ritualistic.
    • I can watch the service online when I have time.

When we try to come up with reasons why we should be there, it’s more difficult.

  Start with this one

  • I want to thank God for getting me through another week.
  • I want to praise Him for helping me through difficult times.
  • I want to be with others who believe what I do so we can encourage each other.
  • My life is packed with so many things to do, I should be able to give my God at least an hour of my time.  ‘
  • When we turn things back to God, rather than ourselves, it’s easy to see why we should be in His house.

He loved us so much that He gave His Son to carry the sting of death which we should have endured.  The least we can do is give Him one day.  Praise Him, thank Him, ask for His blessings on your week, share your love for your fellow believers, encourage each other, lift others in prayer – WORSHIP!

“Come to me you who are heavy laden and I will give you rest.”

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NEVER WALK ALONE . . .

Posted on August 2, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

This painting was done during the plein air competition in Hudson, WI several years ago. It reminds me of the days we visited this lovely area on the St. Croix River. There was so much to paint – beautiful scenes like the one pictured – original buildings made of brick and mortar and still standing tall – people enjoying the beauty of the water. This competition continues every year in Hudson. This year, Paul will not be painting. He’s busy consulting with the angels on the shades of the rainbow. Two of his past paintings will be on display, along with another artist who passed away this year. Tom Dimock and Paul Boecher were part of the original founding group of four when it first began. Pat Undis and Susan McLean Keeney comprised the rest of the team. I feel he would be very honored and humbled to be part of this show again.

A couple years ago, Paul was determined. His German heritage made him more so. His eyesight was beginning to fail as macular degeneration closed in. His paintings were becoming muddied. The brilliant colors of past works were diminishing. Still, there was no stopping him. He set up his easel near the water. There was a class of young sailors just entering the harbor. They noticed Paul and immediately gathered around and watched as he laid colors on the canvas and talked about his younger years, sailing on the water. He could strike up a conversation with everyone he met – whether he knew them or not.

The 2025 Plein Air in Hudson will hold the Awards Reception at the Seasons Gallery, Monday, August 11, 6:30pm-8:30pm – 401 Second Street – Hudson, WI.

OUR ROAD TOGETHER

Sun slowly sets, leaving glistening rays upon the still water,

We hold hands and think about tomorrow,

We plan,

We dream,

We pray for answers,

For wisdom, discernment, dependence on our God,

Some days we seem to approach a wilderness,

No plans,

Shattered dreams

Seemingly unanswered prayers

It appears that God is no where to be found,

But then the glow of His presence is felt in the skies,

The water,

The trees,

The reflections,

We can be still and know,

That He is there,

That He is God,

THAT HE’S GOT THIS!

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