NATIONAL SQUIRREL AWARENESS MONTH

Posted on October 19, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

I’ve written on many occasions about the antics of squirrels and how entertaining they can be. I didn’t realize there was a whole month dedicated to them, however. October is noted for many changes that occur in the environment. Colors pop and leaves fall. This month has been named Anti-bullying month also. I wonder if squirrels have bullies in their tribe. I imagine so. They seem to exist everywhere. October is also known for October Fest celebrations which seems to edify beer and lots of it. However, October is also known as Sober month – so go figure.

We have become squirrel observers in our aging years. Maybe it’s because we admire their stamina, their where-with-all, their industrious nature and their comical antics. We have a window which directs our attention to the little critters, and we’ve had our share of enjoyment watching them. We’ve named some of them, but each year they change because there’s a whole new crop of them. Stubby was the squirrel who lost most of his tail during his lifetime. Jake, from State Farm, was the squirrel who looked like he was wearing khaki pants. Nutsy was one who seemingly had no fear and was quite the acrobat. He once picked up a branch with one walnut on each end. He stepped on an electrical wire and carried that branch like a barbell. It was quite a feat. “Stretch” was known for his ability to hang onto the tree trunk and stretch the front part of his body to the bird feeder. We tried greasing the pole that led to the feeder, but that didn’t deter him. It was fun watching him slide down though.

Squirrels are amazing little creatures. They are really nothing more than tree rats, but they have a lot of human attributes. When October comes, they are very industrious. Nuts from our black walnut tree are meticulously hidden by them. I often wonder how they know where to find them. When they are storing them, they dig a hole first, pop in the nut, and deliberately push the dirt over the top. Then they cover the spot with dried leaves. It’s an amazing process. I wonder if they put little markers on those spots or if they simply have built in radar.

In my opinion, there is nothing like learning from nature. The whole world is filled with amazing creatures which God designed for a specific purpose. I’m still trying to figure out why He created mosquitos, but that’s a whole other story.

Posted in aging, Humor, Nature | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

BRIDGES . . .

Posted on October 18, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Bridges are part of our infrastructure. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to connect with those on the other side. We couldn’t easily transport goods from one place to another. In daily life, we rely on bridges for many necessities. There’s also a bridge that separates us from heaven. In the beginning, the bridge was open and accessible. Man’s relationship with God was perfect. When sin came into the world the bridge was broken and there was no immediate access between man and God as there once was. God’s solution for that wall that stood between Him and man would be restored through Him alone.

We all face bridges that seem unmendable in this life. We start out with high expectations of making it across but run into cracks in the pavement or actual wearing out from within. There seems to be no way over that bridge. When Jesus was sent to us in human form, He bridged the gap which seemed impossible for us to cross. His life of humility, His poverty, His compassion for others, His servant attitude, His suffering, pain and death, were all steps He took to mend the bridge and pay the price for the restoration. He defeated the evil of this world. He overcame it, so that we would someday become joint heirs in His kingdom.

When days seem to hold no solution to our problems or when we give up in despair, always remember what the Son of God did for us. He took the sins of the world on His own body and buried them at the cross. We now have perfect access to our heavenly Father. The bridge is no longer necessary.

“REFRESHING RAIN” by KATHY BOECHER

Mountainous clouds enshroud a sky of black,
Filled with tears from the Lord of all.
He sees and He knows our tribulation.
The depth of our sorrow is in His hands.
There is nothing we can do to take away our sadness.
We cannot change the course of our lives,
But He has turned His own tears to cleansing waters
Through the death of His beloved Son.
Washed – forgiven from sin’s deadly pain,
We can dance in His refreshing rain.

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

GIVE THANKS FOR GOOD HEALTH

Posted on October 17, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Hi, my name is Kathy, and this is one of my support groups. Each one of these women is part of the Jewels of deNial, an ensemble group of actors of retirement age and beyond. I’m the “beyond” part of the group. We’re getting ready to put on our newest episode today. The shows are set up as an old-time radio show, so we can read from a script. Acting skills are still necessary, but the use of voice is the primary gift for this kind of theatre. Most of us have trouble remembering what day it is, much less than it would take to memorize lines.

I am 82 years old and proud of the fact that I’ve made it this long. I believe part of that is because I refuse to stop doing what I love, even though my aging body often tells me I should. I thank God that He’s given me this outlet. As we age, we could mope around and ponder the thoughts of going to heaven, but I think God wants us here for a reason. No matter what age we are, He has a purpose designed just for us.

I’ll never make it big on the Broadway stage. I wouldn’t want that anyway. My life has been one production after another as it is, and I’m blessed through that. Creating our own scripts with lifetime experiences that have been somewhat embellished, also allows for lots of laughter, chuckles and big fat guffaws.

Dear God, thank you for this opportunity – this outlet – this creative venue – this time of fellowship with my friends – my chance to make someone laugh. I’m not sure if that’s what your purpose is for my life, but it is a big part of it. Thanks for keeping me healthy and able to continue for the time being. Amen!

“All the days of the afflicted are evil, but the cheerful of heart has a continual feast.” Proverbs 15:15 ESV

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THANKS FOR EVERYTHING . . .

Posted on October 16, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

What are you thankful for today? Sometimes we have to search really hard to be grateful for anything. It is then that we should remember how much those little blessings really mean. When life is filled with chaos – when it seems there is no hope – when we bring up the negative and bury the positive – when there is nothing to look forward to – thank God for all the gifts He has willingly given to you. Continuing this series on gratitude, life is never without hope for those who love God. His blessings endure for an eternity.

ORIGINAL ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

Each day our hearts should swell with joy, for treasures that we hold,

And count the blessings God employs, much greater than pure gold,

The gifts within His creation, the untouched land and trees,

The waters with deep hydration, the tender, soothing breeze,

The forests untouched by mankind, a habitat for life,

Protected by the Mastermind, who shields them from all strife,

For cities and towns we live in, for things we eat and drink,

For sharing, loving and helping, when lives hang on the brink,

Through laughter and tears we give thanks, God gives us a way out,

When we seem to fall through the ranks, His Word turns us about.

Through sickness and health He molds us, the potter and His clay,

With His strong hands He enfolds us, and brings us through each day,

He guides us through dark shadows, and leads us safely home,

He offers us a sweet repose, upon a royal throne,

So, turn your thoughts to gratitude, for all that God has done,

To make the road much easier, through His own precious Son.

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

GIVE THANKS IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES . . .

Posted on October 15, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER©

How can I thank you, Lord, for all you’ve done for me?

Your perfect love surrounds me and sets my spirit free.

You’ve taken all my sins away. You cleanse my heart both night and day.

I come without one plea.

Before You I can stand – perfected by your Son.

You’ve molded me like clay. Like gold I have become.

The devil can no more defeat. I face to face will You soon meet.

Through all that You have done.

It was October 1929 when the stock market crashed, causing the Great Depression in America.  Just short of a hundred years ago, my mother was 8 years old, lived on a farm with her parents and siblings.  My dad was 10 and helping support his mother, brother and two sisters after their father deserted them.  By 1933, 15 million Americans were unemployed, and half of the banks had failed.

My mom and her family were fortunate to live on a farm, because they had enough food to provide right at hand, but they suffered, nonetheless.  Hand me downs were not only the rule of the day, but they were also born out of necessity.  There were no extras.  People lived with what they had and didn’t even think beyond that.  Their home was open to those who needed a place to work in exchange for room and board.

Today children have more than they need, are involved in extracurricular activities, and don’t always appreciate the luxuries they have.  There’s often little time for family interaction, because both parents work and are exhausted when they get home.  My dad sold newspapers and worked in a shoe factory at a time in his life when he should’ve been playing ball with his friends.  Still if he hadn’t taken those jobs, his family wouldn’t have enough food to sustain them.   Give thanks!

Every generation can look back at their family history and see the many struggles, losses, pain and depression their ancestors suffered.  We are not immune to those same struggles.  We still face death, disease, emotional scars, but modern medicine has made it possible to live longer, healthier lives than our grandparents.  We have a bounty that far exceeds our needs.  Give thanks!

Today, there are those who are homeless. There are children who have little to eat or wear. There will always be poverty.  In the days of the Great Depression, communities of people helped each other to survive. Today we rely on the government to subsidize the poor.  Churches used to be a great source of help for the poor as well.  Today we bring items for a food shelf or write a check rather than visit a family in need and share our abundance along with God’s love.  We have become accustomed to having others intercede.  When we’re so blessed, we’re not living up to our commitment as Christians.

Are we willing to share our blessings with others?  Are we willing to share even when our own earnings are meager?  Do we have a greater gift to share than food for the body?  With Thanksgiving right around the corner, examine yourself.  Invite someone to dinner who has no relatives in the area.  Volunteer to serve a Thanksgiving meal to the homeless.  Do a random of act of kindness, not because you have to, but because you want to. Not only will they be blessed, but so will you.

Above all, give thanks!

Posted in Poetry by Kathy Boecher, praise, thanks | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

HAPPY THANKSGIVING, CANADA . . .

Posted on October 14, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

It’s Thanksgiving Day in Canada today. I have a lot of Canadian friends. My father started out as a Canadian, living in Saskatchewan for some of his younger years. With the division going on in the United States, I’ve even had thoughts about becoming a Canadian citizen, but it’s really too late for me. The paperwork alone would do me in. However, the thought of Thanksgiving coming a month before Thanksgiving makes me happy. Actually, selecting one day to give thanks, seems a little silly. We should be grateful for every day God sets before us.

We have been gifted every morning that we can open our eyes and wake up. There is so much to be thankful for that we take for granted. Like the ability to still be able to make our way from the bed to the bathroom. Like still being able to brush the few teeth we have left. Like every breath we are able to inhale. Like our ability to communicate with others. Like laughter, joy, comfort, compassion and so much more. Gifts that we receive and because we are grateful for them, we can pass them on to someone else. There are so many gifts that we’ve been allowed in this lifetime that we don’t deserve, but God has bestowed them on us with unconditional love.

So maybe everyday should be Thanksgiving. A time to pay it forward. To thank God for ALL His blessings. To share the joy of His gifts with those who don’t yet know Him. To look for the good in all situations, conflicts, dismay, confusion or any kind of trial. There is good, even in those things. It may not seem so when you’re struggling, but God’s timing, His plan for us, His wisdom and love, overpower any difficulty we may go through. He never leaves us. He walks beside us through our tough times and rejoices with us when we make it through.

Since this is Thanksgiving Day in Canada, maybe it would be a good day to start counting our blessings until we celebrate Thanksgiving here in America. When you do that, you will be amazed at how good you have it.

James 1:17 ESV “ Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.”

Posted in God, praise, Thanksgiving, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

SENSATIONAL AUTUMN GLORY . . .

Posted on October 13, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Yesterday we took another drive searching for fall color. The road led us to a nature center which didn’t disappoint. The reds were apparent in the red oaks and maples. Gold and rust created just the right highlights. The darkness of structural pole pines painted a backdrop to establish the majesty of God. I’ve been having a little fun with my phone camera. Pleased that these pictures captured some the beauty of autumn. We reached a pond and discovered a pair of trumpeter swans. I only photographed one, but her reflection can be rendered as another half of the two. Reflections are everywhere in autumn. We look back, forward, in the moments and even within. God covers all those reflections with His broad spectrum of colors. Shadows, contrasts, highlights and low, all contribute to the massive beauty available at this time of year. Today the winds are gusting and many of those beautiful colors will show up on the ground. With just the breath of God, things can change.

The following poem was written in 2017 but is a celebration of this season and the beauty that encapsulates it.

“REFLECTIONS” By Kathy Boecher

Light passes softly through boughs filled with lush foliage.
It sifts through the dense leafy clusters and lays a kaleidoscope of
intricate patterns on the dewy mass below.
The glow bounces from one place to another and shimmers as it
displays reflections of the original light source.
God places that light in the sky to warm us – to refresh us –
to bring new life to dormant seeds within the earth’s surface –
to waken new life in us!
May we be a reflection of His light and use the
Son-shine to spread His power to all who long for purpose –
to resurrect all quiescent souls to eternal life.

Posted in Art & poetry by Kathy Boecher, seasons, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

COLUMBUS DAY OR INDIGENOUS PEOPLE?

Posted on October 12, 2024 by atimetoshare.me 
In fourteen hundred ninety-two, Columbus sailed the ocean blue
He had three ships and left from Spain through sunshinem wind and rain,
He sailed by night he sailed by day; he used the stars to find his sway.
A compass also helped him know how to find the way to go.
Ninety sailors were on board; some men worked while others snored.
Then the workers went to sleep, and others watched the ocean deep
Day after day they looked for land; they dreamed of trees and rocks and sand.
October 12 their dream came true. You never saw a happier crew!

This old poem, authored by unknown, was recited as an annual occurrence in schools across America when I was a student. The thought of 90 men and three ships sailing uncharted waters always amazed me. They had no clue where they would end up, only that they were about to start an adventure that would open more of the world to those seeking a new way of life. In that time, we also heard mixed stories about the native Americans. Those who inherited their land from their ancestors, who probably discovered it as well. I appreciate the plight of these first people who worked and lived in the land before immigrants started pushing their way through its beautiful mountains, rivers, valleys and forests. We see a similar intrusion today as more and more people enter America illegally.

Columbus Day was initiated 300 years after the fact. The day was set to celebrate the explorer who opened the Americas to Spain. Columbus actually landed on a small island, Guanahani in the Bahamas. The dat also celebrated the Italian immigrants who settled much of the early Americas. In the 1800s the new citizens of America began a push across the country to set up towns and cities and so-called progress was set in motion. Soon it was believed that Columbus Day recognized the suffering inflicted on American Indians with that same westward expansion. In 1934, FDR declared Columbus as a National holiday.

As we undergo this same kind of change in our country, we naturally are offended by it. The holiday kind of dissolved with the times and eventually was replaced with the honoring and celebration of Indigenous people. Certainly those who first settled America should be recognized. We are after all a nation of many cultures and backgrounds. Amerca is truly a melting pot. Each nationality brings their own flavoring to what’s inside.

Dear God, help us look at our country as what it is and how it can become better. We know that every culture has something to offer to the mix. We are a country of many talents and abilities. With you, we become invincible. Like a cord of three strands, we are strong. We can celebrate this day and all days knowing that you are still the same as you were in the beginning. In Jesus name, we pray for unity and wisdom. Amen!

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EXTENDED AUTUMN . . .

Posted on October 11, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

PHOTOGRAPHY & POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER

As storms rage all around us, I can’t help but feel sad for those suffering loss of property, material things and even lives. It is a tragedy for sure. Still, when we see how people come together in times of great peril, it warms the heart. Here in Minnesota, we’ve been blessed with an amazing weather year. There have been storms here, but nothing like the ones crossing the edges of our nation. We’re currently experiencing drought conditions, but we had an early spring and just the right amount of rain almost all the way through September. We’ve been blessed with unseasonable October weather as well. This week, we were able to see some brilliant colors popping in the landscape. God’s paintbrush is at work. Today I will bake an apple crisp to share at church tomorrow. We found an orchard on one of our road trips and will fill the house with the scent of cinnamon, nutmeg and baking apples. Certain signs of the season. Leaves are falling, laying a carpet of gold for our pleasure. Life is slowly coming to an end.

The following poem was written a while back to express how we look at God’s consistency in our lives. This has been a common thread for me this year as we reach milestones, welcome new life, celebrate living and rake through the muck of growing old. Knowing that God is always with us and that He never changes, makes life bearable, no matter what the circumstances.

DAYS GONE BY

The olden days,

Tranquility and peace,

Time to ponder all that is important,

Moments to smell the flowers,

To enrich,

To delight,

To foster imagination,

Through tendrils of motion,

Inspired rainbows of color,

Colors that only God can produce as candy for our eyes,

Gentle ,

Quiet,

Peace,

Yet even in that serenity,

Lies turmoil,

Fear and anxiety,

Death,

Time changes,

We wonder where those winsome days have gone,

We long for one brief moment,

When we can simply be alone with God,

To travel this earth with Him,

To be lifted through our abyss,

To be carried by His strong arms,

We don’t have to wait,

He’s with us always,

Even unto the end of the world.

Posted in Art & poetry by Kathy Boecher, God's will, seasons, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

TBT – 2020

Posted on October 10, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Since today is Thursday and there is an opportunity to look back, I’ve decided to repost this one from 2020. Most of us are trying to forget about that year and the chaos, loss and change it inflicted upon so many for so long. It’s hard to imagine that four years have passed since this difficult time loomed like a dark cloud over the world. The post was written on New Years Eve as we pushed into a new adventure which would change our lives forever.

I would hate to think that one year would make such a difference in a person’s life. When the news media talks about getting rid of the old year, they will have many bad things to talk about for the one we’re sending out the door. Yet there were some pretty amazing things that happened as well. Instead of dwelling on the yucky stuff, maybe it would be wise to look at all of those positives. Here are just a few.

  • People became reacquainted with their immediate families.
  • Sanitary conditions became the norm in almost every type of business across the country.
  • A vaccine for a deadly virus was made available in record time.
  • Ingenuity and creativity are at an all-time high.
  • Record numbers of voters turned out to vote in a controversial election year.
  • Awareness of injustices within our country were made apparent and people noticed.
  • We discovered the age of electronics in a whole new way.
  • Many learned the true value in life.
  • A new form of worship became available to all – including those who haven’t attended a church in years. The Word of God will stay remain.
  • Puzzles and board games became cool again. Playing outdoors did too, not to mention family dinners together.
  • For us oldies, watching the squirrels and birds outside our window became a daily adventure.
  • People became creative in the kitchen – using recipes handed down from grandparents.
  • Drive in movies made a comeback – even in people’s backyards.
  • We learned to laugh at our state of affairs by making jokes about hand sanitizer and toilet paper. Parodies were displayed on the Internet and often went viral.

As Americans have always done, most of us have looked at this year as one of opportunity and making lemonade out of lemons. Many have lost loved ones to COVID19. Others have passed on to heaven because of other reasons. We rejoice for those who have left this veil of tears and entered their eternal homes. Still we grieve the loss of them and yet we can also be so glad for the impact they had on our lives.

What I’m trying to say in all of this, 2020 was a year of trial – a time in the wilderness to reevaluate life – a time of grace for all who look for it. God continues to reign the same today as He was yesterday and will be in the future. With that news, we can be confident of a happy new year.

POST SCRIPT: Those difficult years of the pandemic brought families back together. Here we are almost five years later. Have we returned to our old ways of processing, child rearing, faith in God, relationships and political correctness. Maybe we need to be shaken up once in a while to realize the importance of turning back to God in all things – not just when the going gets tough, but every single day.

Posted in aging, Faith, Uncategorized, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

GOD’S WHISPERS . . .

Posted on October 9, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Howling, whistling, streaming through a patch of aging trees,

The wind surprises and upsets and strips them of their leaves,

One day a lush green canopy, another turned to gold,

Soon withered, dry and sapped of life, they waiver in the cold,

The signs of life are all but gone, the snow will soon be here,

The days grow short, the sun subsides, but still we do not fear,

Beneath that cloak of white shall rise, new life again in spring,

Like we shall someday rise again. when new life God will bring.

We all are swept by winds of time, our days are very short,

We live, we dream, we try, we fail, the problems we can’t sort,

We’re pushed and tossed and crushed at times it seems,

But in our every trial, the blood of Christ redeems,

Our sins have been forgiven, our life is guaranteed,

God promises us His Kingdom if only we believe.

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

OPEN YOUR EYES

Posted on October 9, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

In our age of technological advances, it hardly seems necessary to use our minds.  Our information is right at our fingertips.  Wouldn’t it be interesting if we all eventually wind up like E.T. with our line of communication being our pointer finger? We’ve been designed as visual creatures.  Our eyes are an important part of our makeup, and we often look only at what’s right in front of them.  We need proof – we need to see for ourselves – we need to have the drama laid out before us so we can experience the beauty of a story or an image.

My husband knows how to craft beautiful images through his art.  I use my gifts to turn stories into performance drama or poetry.  There are so many talented authors who have transferred their thoughts into beautiful words for the eye to read and to stir the imagination. Until we no longer have use of our eyes, we don’t appreciate how important they are, but the blind truth is right in front of us. The clarity of God’s Word requires only one thing from us and that’s opening our eyes in faith to what its pages hold.  We don’t need to be an intellectual, a theologian, or a believer.

In faith, inspired by the Holy Spirit, our eyes will be opened to the beautiful plan God has designed for each of us – a plan that goes far beyond what our earthly life provides.  It’s the nourishment – the feast – the eye candy that God has prepared for everyone in eternity. When we look beyond what lies immediately in our view and into a future of a perfectly designed life, our eyes will find clear picture of what God has ordained for us.

Posted in Christian devotions, Encouragement, Faith, Inspiration | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on OPEN YOUR EYES

TEACH YOUR CHILDREN WELL . . .

Posted on October 8, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Wars continue to wage in the Middle East, despite the many lives already spent. Gangs infest the streets of our cities, shattering young lives and enticing vulnerable children into their malicious arms. Immorality festers in each new bit of technology. Our government engages in all sorts of drama and doesn’t accomplish anything while the media thrives on it. Our children are exposed to every available evil known to man before they even have a chance to become children.

It’s like an old spiritual which states, “I wish that I could find a way, but life is just one long grey day.” Let’s admit it, this world is a mess. There is a solution. We have a whole new generation of young minds and bodies, waiting to be heard. They are the future of our country. It starts in the home, from early on. Children need to be taught to love and have compassion for others. They need to learn about courage, faith and God. By providing them with these tools, we’re giving them the future. They will have the perfect partner in live through Jesus, Christ. They will be armed with the necessary armor that defends against the arrows of this world. The power of love is so much greater than the darkness of evil. Teach your children well

God, I know that you have a plan in all of this yuck. It’s really hard to understand it, but I will trust in you to make something good out of it. Give me peace in the knowledge that you have a better place prepared for my future. Help me share that good news with those who still need to know it.

Posted in America, Family, God | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

A PLACE CALLED NEVERLAND . . .

Posted on October 7, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Growing up is an amazing thing when you think about it. Our bodies mature. Our limbs stretch out. We add bulk to our tiny forms. Hair appears in all kinds of places. Our teeth come in and eventually fall out. Our senses get stronger but weaken with the years. Having had the wonderful experience of holding my newborn and only great-grandson on two separate occasions this week has given me a look at how beautiful the process of growing up becomes as we age. There is nothing we can do to stop the progression, but I’ve learned in 82 years of living to never stop playing, laughing or enjoying life. Even when you can’t find anything worth laughing about.

Some might call me cockeyed or a little crazy, but this thought process as served both my husband and me through 60 years of marriage and 8 years of knowing each other before then. We’ve been through countless difficulties during those years, but we continue to have fun even during the hardest of times. Many may think of me as not wanting to grow up or give up. When you can laugh through adversity – when you can enjoy the life God has given you – when you can turn darkness into light – I believe that is a good life. So instead of simply waiting to grow up or waiting to die, we continue to bring humor into our otherwise depressing situations. We talk in a Minnesota accent as we drive through the Scandinavian towns around us. We laugh at misspelled or inappropriate closed captioning. We brainstorm ideas for new stories. We laugh at our own shortcomings. We share life with each other in a joyful way. We press on for the prize.

The deadly “C” word has consumed much of the past fifteen years. Add to that heart issues, an aneurism on the brain and many assorted maladies. We could’ve given up a long time ago, but instead we prayed and continue to do so. This isn’t a cure-all for healing, but it gives us time with the Creator of the Universe. What a gift that is. He will hear our prayers and answer them in His time and way. Maybe not always as we pray them, but in His wisdom and according to His plan.

So, as I looked at this perfectly formed life in my arms, I hoped I might be able to show him how to do the same. There will be times when he can’t wait to grow up. He will get angry with the rules required of him. He will try to control things by himself. He will develop physically, emotionally and spiritually. God has a special future all mapped out for him, and it will be wonderful. Becoming older can be overrated, but walking through life with God only gets better each day.

Posted in aging, Family, joy | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

SUNFLOWER SEEDS . . .

Posted on October 6, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER©

The sunflower seeds have blossomed and the fields of yellow and brown, fill the land with glory and majesty for all who come to enjoy their beauty. These locations have been the perfect place for artists, photographers and those who love seeing the massive array of color. For a graduation, engagement, family or special photo op, you can’t beat these sites. When I think of sunflowers, I can’t help recalling all the paintings Vincent Van Gogh created of these showy flowers. He once said:

“What am I in the eyes of most people — a nonentity, an eccentric, or an unpleasant person — somebody who has no position in society and will never have; in short, the lowest of the low. All right, then — even if that were absolutely true, then I should one day like to show by my work what such an eccentric, such a nobody, has in his heart. That is my ambition, based less on resentment than on love in spite of everything, based more on a feeling of serenity than on passion. Though I am often in the depths of misery, there is still calmness, pure harmony and music inside me. I see paintings or drawings in the poorest cottages, in the dirtiest corners. And my mind is driven towards these things with an irresistible momentum.”

― Vincent Van Gogh

Vincent was a troubled soul. He seemed to be at his best when he was out in a field somewhere, painting real life scenes and expanses of brilliant color. He drank too much. He cared little about his physical appearance. He often spent hours upon hours painting without taking sustenance. He was prone to depression and was admitted to an asylum which brought him a certain amount of peace. Even in the hellish recesses of his heart, there dwelt an artist of great merit. If only he would’ve experienced success during his lifetime.

We all have God given abilities – talents and blessings freely created within us. Sometimes we have to look deeply inside to realize what we’re capable of. In the process of searching, we might be surprised at what we discover.

“FROM HERE TO ETERNITY,” Poetry By Kathy Boecher©

The edge of a bluff lined river – a glassy reflection glistens and bounces onto a hill.

The light touches the edges of trees and buildings in the distance, creating patterns dancing from one place to another.

The deep crevices fill with darkness.  The sky is magnificently dotted with wispy clouds interlaced with mauve, crimson and blue.

A path of towering pines shades the heat of the sun,

Looking out at the beauty of God’s perfect creation,

Breathing in the sweet, fresh air,

Hearing the sounds of rushing water and birds singing their little hearts out, fills your heart with contentment.

This little morsel of peace is just a speck in the scheme of things.

How long we’ve waited for the glory of these summer days.  They are so few and fleeting.  Soon the leaves will turn to red and gold and then fall.  Like our lives. We wither and die.

The moments of joy we experience on this planet are nothing compared to what waits for us after the winter of our dying breath.  Once again spring returns and we’re blessed with new life when we know God.

The glory never ends.

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ATHLETES, POLITICIANS, MIMES & BOBBLE HEADS

Posted on October 5, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Having been both a student and teacher of public speaking, I’ve had to learn a lot about body language. Has anyone else noticed similar gestures, eye contact, hand movement and nodding heads on those in the public eye? When they want you to agree with them, there is a constant bobbing of the head which makes these celebrities look like those plastic images made to look like them. So much is based on a bobbing head. When we want total agreement on an issue, it requires nodding the head in a positive way. When we wish for the opposite reaction, the up and down movement goes horizontal. Hands are also an issue which drive me crazy. When we talk, we often use our hands to express ourselves. Politicians often hold their hands out to the audience and mechanically move them up and down. Instead of honesty personified, it looks more like a mime or an AI in action. In effect, all these moves, in my opinion, only show a lack of knowing how to present oneself honestly. It all looks very fake to me.

With an election so near, it’s obvious that there’s a pattern here. Someone must’ve developed it in ancient days to be more convincing to the audience. Those body language issues have become so antiquated, yet we still see them in almost every political ad out there. Not only are we forced to hear the same rhetoric over and over through a political campaign, but we must endure these same monotonous, orchestrated bits of so-called communication.

I believe honesty prevails in our effort to communicate physically, vocally and when our message is true and reliable. When everyone is using the same actions, it’s pretty hard to have confidence in any of them. So what does God have to say about it?

Proverbs 12:19 ESV – “Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue is but for a moment.”

A good actor can be very convincing and believable, but he is simply playing a part. Is this also true of politicians, athletes and people in the entertainment business. Shakespeare spoke of life as being like a play when he penned these words.

“All the world’s a stage and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances and one man in his time plays many parts. His acts being seven ages.”

So where do we stand in the scheme of things? Is life just a staged event, with everyone taking on a specific character? I know that life itself was created by God. He had an amazing vision of what it would be. He created us with skills and attributes that could contribute to His design, yet a true heart is all He wanted – one that would be honest in their relationship with Him and obedient to Him. Instead of being puppets, mimes, bobbleheads or politicians, He made us for a purpose. He has also given you the means to accomplish it. Find yours today.

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DEM BONES DISEASE

Posted on October 4, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

My topic for discussion this week has been aging. Not because I’m particularly fond of the subject. It seems there’s a whole lot of people in my age group. I recently heard that the fastest growing group in America today is 100 years or more of age. I can’t imagine living another 20 some years, but it looks like I might. There’s a Book in the Bible that refers to the aging process among other things.

Proverbs 14:30 ESV – “A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot.

Most of us are not crazy about the things that go along with aging – like loss of body mass – hearing, senses of smell taste or touch or sight – skin that has lost its elasticity – hair falling out – teeth being replaced. I could go on, but I prefer to look at every part of life with hope and this whole thing is starting to depress me. When we worry about all that stuff, we soon become cranky, tired, complaining or we may even give up. There comes a point when we even wonder why we’re hanging around so long. Trust me on this, there is a reason. God has already determined what will happen as we go through this life. He knows the mistakes we’ll make or have made. He knows our shortcomings and our strengths. He uses all of those things to give our lives purpose. Thinking about our ailments isn’t going to make them better. There are medical advances which far surpass what was going a hundred years ago, so life can be lengthened. But there is still no cure for death.

How we approach that day can only be determined by the One who created life in the first place. God’s plan is for life after death for those who put their faith in Him and all that He’s done to enrich their lives. He’s also there to answer our prayers. Whatever they may be, He will answer – when He determines it’s the right time.

Our bones, along with everything else about us, are going to decay. They will eventually crush and turn to ash. Sounds promising, eh? Actually, our hearts – our life source – along with our Creator – will determine when our time on earth will end. He has promised new life, restored bodies, no disease, pain or tears.

LORD, I need you every minute of every day. Help me to trust in your perfect plan for my life. If it’s your will that I live a long life, help me to share the news of your mercy and grace. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen!

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FALLING DOWN DISEASE

Posted on October 3, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

This week, my posts have been filled with maladies usually associated with the elderly. Since I’m one of those elderly folks, I have a lot of experience in this area. I must say, though I’ve endured 82 years, I’ve been able to avoid falling off a roof or a tall ladder. Most of my tumbles are related to short distances. This past week, as I got out of bed at 2 AM, my foot got tangled in an electrical cord, I lost my balance and hit a table on the way down. To spare all the details, the results caused me to make a trip to urgent care for x-ray. The ordeal consumed five hours of time but revealed only a small fracture in my foot. My side, however, looks like a weird tattoo of black and blue. It looks much worse than it is.

As I get older, I realize how limited I am. If there’s something to reach from the floor, I have to think of as many tasks to get done while I’m down there, since it’s so difficult to get up again. The aging process makes it even harder.  As difficult as it seems, we need help and that’s like admitting we’re getting old.  Who wants to do that? Falling down is not limited to the elderly. Even -the physically fit can take a tumble from time to time. Little ones, just learning to walk, also have a problem maintaining balance.

When we fall spiritually, we can’t seem to drag ourselves out of the pit on our own either.  We need someone to physically lift us out of the dung of our sin and put us back on track.  We need help getting up.  Life is full of obstacles and difficulties. We try with all our might to get up, only to feel like we’re in a pond of quicksand, pulling us further down the more we struggle.  Unfortunately, we’re proud and don’t want help.  We believe we can handle the tough things alone. When we turn to God at times like that, we’re placing ourselves in the best hands possible.  He’ll not only pull us up but guide us through whatever problem we face – even when we don’t agree with His choice for us.

So today I’ll try to remember that God has my back and guards my every footstep.  If I happen to fall, I know He’s there to catch me.

“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

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AGING EAR DISEASE – OR SELECTIVE HEARING

Posted on October 2, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

All kinds of diseases beseech us as we grow old. One that has caused me a lot of problems lately has to do with hearing loss. As Maxine says, “I’m not hard of hearing. I’ve just heard enough.” This loss has made it difficult to watch TV without captions. The captions, however, are often wrong. They can create some humorous dialogue if you watch closely. For example, on the local news, they were commenting on someone who had been fired even after being on the job for over 6 years. The caption read, “after being on the John for over 6 years.” No wonder they got fired.

Captions aren’t the only problem. I’ve tried reading lips and that works sometimes, but when the person you’re talking to has a beard and moustache, you can’t always see their lips. When that same person is your spouse and he’s the same age as you, their ability to speak has weakened making it even harder to hear them, it can lead to major communication problems. Those problems can lead to misinterpretation and wrong thinking. I’ve thought about hearing aids, but those of my friends who own them claim they aren’t a cure all and they don’t always work. So, I live with my hearing loss and make up some interesting dialogue of my own.

Hearing is one of the most important parts of human conversation and communication. If we don’t listen, can’t listen, or won’t listen, we’re losing out on half of the discussion. When you add white noise to the mix you come up with various sounds on different frequencies that lead to total confusion. So how do we get rid of this troublesome disease? Of course there are medical reasons for hearing loss. For example, I was told by one doctor that working with young children for so long could have caused it, because of the higher frequency of their little voices. Sometimes it can be caused by fluid on the inner ear or other extenuating circumstances. There are ways of treating this malady, but the art of listening requires more than a physician.

The Bible speaks about this subject in various situations.

  • Proverbs 4:20-21 ESV “My son, be attentive to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Let them not escape from your sight; keep them within your heart.”
  • Proverbs 28:9 ESV “If one turns away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer is an abomination.
  • Matthew 11:15 ESV “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”
  • Romans 10:17 ESV “ So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.”

There are many references to the ears in the Bible. When we have no problem hearing, there’s no excuse for not listening. When we refuse to listen, it’s called selective hearing. When we don’t open our ears, we become victims of misunderstanding and other problems. The beauty of the gift of clearly hearing will open the door to building our faith. Hearing the Word of God is the beginning of understanding. It will unhitch the gate of communication and problem solving. When you’ve lost the ability to hear, do whatever is necessary to rectify the problem. However, some things are definitely better unsaid.

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FOOT & MOUTH DISEASE . . .

Posted on October 1, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Yesterday, my post was about plank in the eye disease. I’ve decided to continue this trend until the end of this week. There are many diseases floating around our world. Many are caused by bacteria or some kind of infection which travels from person to person. There are those caused through a physical gene passed from one generation to the next. Diseases can occur when the environment is filled with pollutants. We can pick them up just about anywhere. We learned the importance of washing hands and keeping our surroundings free from germs during the pandemic, but now that it seems to be under control and what have we learned?

Many diseases have a cure. Many are terminal. Many are endured and many cause great suffering. The disease caused by sin is all those things. When we sin against God, He is very clear about the results. When we sin against our fellow man, we’re creating a disease that spreads like wildfire. Foot in Mouth disease is referred to in the book of James, the stepbrother of Jesus, in the New Testament.

James 1:26 says, “If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.”

Someone once said, “Never put both feet in your mouth at the same time. You won’t have a leg to stand on.”  There are many times I’ve found myself saying things I don’t mean or using words that hurt without even realizing it. We are responsible for the power of our own words and often don’t think before we speak.  We also say things without realizing that our words have consequences.  My tongue doesn’t always follow the directions of my brain and seems to take on a life of its own. Life would be so much easier if we had a script to follow -wouldn’t it.

Words can slant our thinking. Words can destroy a person’s good name.  Words can cut deeper than a knife and alter the way others think about themselves and how they relate to the rest of the world.  Lies and slander don’t seem to carry the same weight that they used too.  In a world of no holds barred, and instant gratification, little thought is given to the effect our words can have.

Life is too short to go about having to apologize constantly for what we say.  If we don’t have something constructive to say, we should put a foot in our mouth simply to keep us quiet. What an interesting concept.  I wonder how many of us would be walking on one foot.

Dear Lord, I am sinful. My words are not always the right ones. When I’m tempted to say or think things that would hurt another person, remind me that I cannot even speak without your guidance. Still, you give me that freedom.  Help me to use my words to comfort, encourage and inspire others.  When we’re cut deeply by words, grant me the grace to forgive.  Allow me to put the best construction on all things. Teach me control what comes from my mouth. May my written words be used as my voice to glorify you alone.  Amen!

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