FADING FAST . . .

Posted on October 28, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

This painting has nothing to do with sailing, but I thought it might bring some sunshine on this rainy day. Summer has turned quickly into autumn and there may still be a few days to enjoy the beautiful masterpiece God creates for our pleasure. I’ve been thinking a lot about the seasons of life lately. Maybe because they seem to move so quickly. Days turn into weeks and weeks into months and life goes on. It has been almost ten months since Paul entered his heavenly home. The effects of grief have been slow in coming, but my mind is racing with thoughts of him. I am blessed with a network of amazing family and friends, but when it comes right down to it, God is my refuge and strength in all trials and difficulties. I ask that He be with me as I carry on with that confidence

One final day to set the sails, to glide o’er waters still,

Feel the cold, sharp wind in your face, a final lap until,

The cold autumn winds blow stiffly then, as water turns to ice,

Chill in the air messes your hair, one more ride would be nice,

Turbulent wind churns the water, stirring up giant waves,

Capsizing might be an option, when sailing on such days,

Instead, you enjoy the rapture, sit back – enjoy the ride,

In a few months you’ll hibernate, and spend your time inside.

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, grief | Tagged , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

A WALK THROUGH THE BADLANDS . . .

Posted on October 27, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

This colored pencil sketch would’ve been done in the Badlands of South Dakota. I imagine Paul was hiking through the area, took a break, pulled out his sketchbook and began to draw. He also had a photographic memory and could keep some of the details in his brain for future reference. I’ve used this poem more than once. It details my daily walk as I face various challenges along the way. Through the darkest times – through difficult decision making – through sickness and health – through confusion and trying to do the right thing – we all fall short. Our only refuge is our God and Lord, Jesus. Those bad lands can be overcome with His help. He guides us through the channels, the ups and downs, the maize that convolutes our thinking, the fear and anxiety. He alone is our greatest possession.

When fears and worries are so real,
We sometimes wonder why we feel,
The pangs of deep depression.

The weight extreme – we lose all hope,
Our hearts grow sad – for strength we grope,
To lighten this progression.

We look within and try to cope
There are no answers in our scope
It now becomes oppression.

We try so hard to rise above,
We search in vain for any love.
To deal with this obsession.

We cannot do it on our own,
We need one advocate alone,
To bring our full confession.

God takes our hand and leads us out,
Relieves our pain – our fear – our doubt.
He is our best possession.

His love is great – it sees us through
When there is nothing we can do.
Our words hold no expression.

He lifts us from the pit of death.
He died for us to give us breath.
To wipe out our transgression.

Posted in anxiety, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, depression | Tagged , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

OPENING UP OUR EYES . . .

Posted on October 26, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

It’s Sunday – a day of rest for some and toil for others. It is definitely one day of the week we can set aside to praise our Creator for all His blessings and provision – to raise our voices in praise – to shout our alleluias – to present prayers for ourselves and others. The old barn owl in the artwork today, looks like he could use a good rest. I will not be attending church today but am blessed to be able to live stream at home as I get additional rest. The sun is shining again and things are looking up. Have a great week!

Give thanks to the Lord for His creation,
In His hands all things came into existence,
The trees perfectly designed and crafted to bring shade, comfort, and shelter,
The seas in all their majesty, blown into place by His breath,
Abundant with life, food for our stomachs and beauty to behold,
The sky is filled with the voice and color of His paintbrush,
A glimmering sunset, a rainbow of promise, clouds to gather the tears of man,
The secret places are His also, He formed great mountains from formless clay,
He carved the crevices from steely granite, penciled in the lines,
Washed the canvas with water, tweaked, punched, chiseled,
He created every living thing,
Formed from nothing into intricately executed works of art,
Giving the first man a likeness of Himself,
And the first woman taken from the ribs of the man,
To forever be a part of him,
God is the Creator of all things,
Let us praise Him and thank Him for His wondrous gifts,
And remind us that He created us to be the caretakers of His creation.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, praise, rest | Tagged , , , , , , | 5 Comments

INTERNATIONAL ARTIST DAY

Posted on October 25, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & INSPIRATION FROM PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Today is International Artist Day, and since I’ve been MIA for the past few days my post has a few extra examples of Paul Boecher’s art. I thank Jesus for another day with an opportunity to share God’s love with you again. Hope to be back to full strength in a few days.

“And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm and strengthen and establish you.” 1 Peter 5:10 ESV

Posted in art & inspiration from the Boechers, falth, healing, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , | 15 Comments

OUT OF FOCUS . . .

Posted on October 16, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART  & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

As each day passes, I’m amazed at the body of work my husband created within a 25 year period. A new painting pops up almost every day; This one silhouettes a scene that probably was inspired at our last home. We lived close to the inner city on a hill. A picture window was the perfect spot to look out at the sun rising in the morning and setting at night. The plethora of church steeples was equally astounding. Most of those churches are struggling today and yet there is such a need for God’s presence in our lives. What will it take to bring them back to life?

Some days seem out of focus, no clarity can be found,

We flounder and we stumble, we struggle to survive,

We push through life’s disturbance, yet we barely get around,

Our hands seem tied, our feet won’t move, you’d think we weren’t alive.

But somewhere in our darkness, a light shines bright and clear,

A light that clears the cobwebs, making the path seem straight,

The shadows still remain there, but we have nothing to fear,

The light will guide us through it, on any given date.

When life seems overwhelming,  and you don’t think you can’t go on,

Turn to the Light of heaven, that never fades or dies,

He’s always there to guide our way, a promise to count upon,

We know God speaks the truth, and we know He never lies.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, church, Jesus, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

MORNING PROMISE . . .

Posted on October 15, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ORIGINAL ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

I used to be a morning person. I’d get up with the sun and begin my tasks for the day. By the time lunchtime came I was done for the day. Now that the sun doesn’t rise until almost 7:30 AM, I am slowly becoming a creature of the night. It seems if I go to bed early, I tend to wake up late. If I go to bed late, I’m up every hour on the hour to make sure I can hear my alarm. It’s weird how we become accustomed to certain habits. When my kids were growing up it was necessary to be up and at ’em before the sun, so they could hear the charming sound of my voice urging them out of their own beds. The only time I really got anything done that required my full attention was when I stayed up until the wee hours of the morning and could count on some alone time. Generally, I used that time to talk to God – to finish a sewing project = not forget to pack school lunches – do a load of laundry. My tasks have changed over time. Most of them are not achieved like they used to be – but my body has also changed and my get up and go, got up and left. I still use these early morning hours to present my requests to God, knowing that he listens. My eyes take a lot longer to adjust. My knees don’t become mobile until mid-morning. Soon the time will change from daylight savings time to normal time. I may even be able to witness the sunrise before I get myself in gear.

Each morning is like a new beginning – a fresh start – a clean slate,

We begin with optimistic eyes pointed at the early glow of a rising sun,

As moments progress, the light overtakes the day and

Becomes burdensome and overbearing,

The heat,

The air,

The weight  is almost too much,

By dusk, we welcome the relief,

We breathe in fresher air,

We rest in the shade,

We become numb to the happenings of the past hours and minutes,

Again to be greeted by another morning of promise,

Do we hope in it or give up before it dawns?

THANK YOU, JESUS, FOR ANOTHER DAY!

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Uncategorized, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , | Comments Off on MORNING PROMISE . . .

BARRICADES . . .

Posted on October 14, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ORIGINAL ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

A mighty wall stands tall against a sky of azure blue.

Protecting everything in sight from harm and danger too,

A wall can hold back enemies and keep its people safe,

A barricade, a fortress strong, for every single waif.

But even in its might so bold, and with its power strong,

A mountain can be crushed by God, His patience won’t last long,

With just one word from God’s own mouth, the walls come tumbling down,

But when we place our trust in Him, we’re guaranteed a crown,

He’ll guide our hearts and lead us home, to his awaiting rest,

Eternal life awaits us there, our new life will be blessed.

A barricade of birch trees act as a wall, creating contrast in the autumn landscape. Capturing just the right amount of light, shadows and outstanding brilliance to the colors surrounding them. When we allow those walls to fall down, the barricade no longer holds us back. We are free to explore the beauty of this season and see how weather can change your outlook and give you hope for the future.

Today is a day like that. As I spent more time with my great grandson, I’m seeing growth with each step he takes. His walking has become more confident, even though there are moments when a lack a balance occurs and he has to reset. As we age there is also a need to restart the engine and begin again. Even in those fading years, God provides us with strength we thought was long gone. With God’s help we realize we aren’t dead yet and there is still much for us to do on this planet. We may have to knock some walls down, clear the road of clutter and place our complete trust in Him; With Him, all things are possible.

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

LET THE MOUNTAINS CRY OUT . . .

Posted on October 13, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

Another pencil sketch drawn by Paul is filled with the majesty of the mountains and the glorious creation that God has given to us to inhabit. I’m late in posting today because I had the pleasure of babysitting my great grandson. He is on the move now that he’s mastered the art of walking. I must admit I’m pretty tired after of full day chasing and guarding him, but what a joy it is. He is the happiest go lucky child I’ve ever met in my life. As I watched him nap for a little while during this time, I marveled at the blessings God has bestowed on my life. This little man always has a smile on his face and brings so much joy to others. The mountains in this image remind me of Paul and his love of God’s creation. The image of the one year old I held in my arms today also reminds me of Paul. When one life leaves, it is often replaced with another. I wonder what this little boy will become when he grows up. I imagine he will have his share of ups and downs. I do know that he is just what I need right now.

Who has the power to crash through rock with the heat of his breath,

Who can move mountains,

Who can cut a path through rugged terrain,

Carrying streams of pure water,

Which in time will reach the sea,

Who is capable of bringing life to barren areas,

Nourishing it,

Replanting,

Giving new life to the dead earth,

Who can make that water pour forth from the heavens,

From pregnant, heavy clouds,

And return that same water to the atmosphere,

Who can cause life to reproduce,

Who can lay every mountain low,

With the sound of His voice,

Who can lift every valley,

And every rugged path made perfect,

Only God can do that.

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

ANOTHER BEGINNING . . .

Posted on October 12, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

This photo was taken this past week as the Jewels of de Nial performed to a group of senior citizens. This would be my last gig as a performer in the group. I parked in the parking lot and thought I was so lucky to get a handicapped space. The fact was, we had been told to enter at the front door which was on the street. One of my fellow performers was right behind me and reminded me that we’d have to walk to the front. No problem, right? She grabbed my gear and offered her hand, but I stubbornly refused. By the time we got to the top of the hill, I was breathless. The fact that I was huffing and puffing by then, reminded me why I was going into retirement as an actor. I’ve always been kindly assigned a chair for all our shows in the past. This time I thought I’d need a stretcher. Actually, I recovered and was able to go on with the show.

We were invited to join in the group’s celebration of the harvest meal, which was delicious. Appetizers included herring and pickled beets. The soup was made from acorn squash, with the main course consisting of the best carrots I’ve ever eaten in my life and a couple different types of perogies. I had the honor of sitting next to a woman of ninety-one. She was absolutely stunning. Her white hair was perfectly coiffed. Her nails were manicured and polished. The only disability I could notice was her difficulty in speaking. I soon learned she had an issue with her vocal cords. Otherwise, she seemed in perfect health. The others at our table were involved in their own conversation, so she and I began discussing the problems we face as we age. She told me of her own personal tragedies. Her husband had died as well as her two sons – both dying very young and right at the beginning of their careers. She had a premonition about the second son’s passing. As she revealed her story, I could see it brought back the sadness as she had difficulty finishing the sentence. Tears began to form in her eyes. I gently put my hand on hers and she continued on. That simple gesture gave her the strength to carry on with her story. I also could instantly relate to her sadness.

As I think about my five years with this group, I couldn’t help but think about the blessings I’ve received through it. I’ve grown very close to the women involved. We have become a true support group for each other through some difficult times. We also had the opportunity to go into the community and show those who are aging, that life doesn’t end when you get older. It is just the beginning for many of us. We were able to turn some tough obstacles into something to laugh about with our antics on stage.

A new week is about to begin. A new chapter will also start. I will have many more opportunities to bring laughter to others – to share my experiences – to touch a nerve – to help someone through a difficult time – to let others know that life is really about doing God’s work. It doesn’t matter what our gifts are but how we use them. He has blessed each of us with many talents. My voice is heard through the writing I do. I pray that it will be used for God’s glory. Like a gentle touch, a comforting word, a show of interest or just listening, we can make a difference in someone’s life.

My character’s name was Pearl, as you can see by the abundance of pearls I am wearing. It has been a great run.

Posted in aging, grief, Uncategorized, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

TUCKED AWAY . . .

Posted on October 11, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & INSPIRATION BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

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

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

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

WATERCOLOR SKY . . .

Posted on October 10, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TAKING FLIGHT . . .

Posted on October 9, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ORIGINAL ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

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

 A steely eyed hawk spots its prey,

He swoops down to capture it,

His wings contain power and majesty,

And at the same time dread and death,

For his food supply.

A common sparrow will stick around,

To enjoy the contents of your bird feeder,

Through all kinds of weather,

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

My God has healing in His wings,

He can cover me with His safety,

He can lift me with His might,

He shields me with protection,

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

From the storms of life,

Even when the world assails,

And all seems lost,

He is there to cuddle and protect me,

From all outside influences,

I can rest in that knowledge,

Knowing that nothing,

In this world,

Can harm me,

Even in my darkest hours,

He is my armor.

HE IS MY GOD!

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

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

A PLACE WHERE EAGLES DARE . . .

Posted on October 8, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ORIGINAL ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

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

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

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

His talons strong and piercing, can deaden any foe,

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

The mother tends the nest and underneath her breast,

The baby eaglets sleep, while watchful eye she keeps,

The power of this raptor outweighs his enemies,

He welcomes any danger with greater tendencies.,

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

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

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

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

SWAN SONG . . .

Posted on October 8, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

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

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

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

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

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

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

RUSTY PINES . . .

Posted on October 7, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & INSPIRATION FROM PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

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

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

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

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

BRILLIANCE . . .

Posted on October 6, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

An army of trees surrounds the crystalizing pond,

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

Clothed in brilliant shades of gold, crimson and brown,

The air has a chilling bite to it,

An eagle circles above,

Spying his breakfast from aloft,

He swoops and dips – success,

The still water is shattered like broken glass,

But soon regains its calm,

Reflections of an azure sky,

Shimmer and bounce from trees to pond and back again,

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

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

Bringing another season for us mortals to behold.

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

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

ONLY GOD CAN DO THAT . . .

Posted on October 5, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ORIGINAL ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

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

To capture the essence of a hazy, purple sunrise,

To  brush strokes of muted lavender and gold,

To place a creature within the environment,

To temper, refine, correct, re-do,

The life of an artist,

Yet not perfect, despite its beauty,

Only God can make that happen.

He washes away each imperfection,

Commands the colors to take their place,

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

Creates a perfect sanctuary,

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

Only God can make that happen.

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

PAINTING IN A PUMPKIN PATCH . . .

Posted on October 4, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

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

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

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

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

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

Now skeletal branches swaying, dancing with grace and style,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHO WILL CATCH ME?

Posted on October 3, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

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

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

When every ounce of strength has been sapped,

When it seems that you can no longer go on,

When life kicks and punches you,

When there seems no hope for tomorrow,

Where do you turn for restoration?

Where do you go when your will has been crushed?

Where will you find relief?

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

The only place to look – is up,

Turn to your Creator,

The God of the universe,

Your Savior, Redeemer and Comforter,

He can mend broken bodies,

He can lift your spirit beyond expectation,

He gives you new life, new strength,

With Him, you will soar higher than the angels.

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

COMING HOME . . .

Posted on October 2, 2025 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

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

An explosion of color pours through the negative spaces,

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

Images of stained glass shards,

Intermingled with spatters of light,

Entwined with the movement of a paintbrush,

Morning displays its majesty,

Through the glistening light,

Enhanced by trembling shadows,

Dotted with motion, love and precision,

The brush dances across the canvas,

Colors blend,

The artist works diligently,

To create his art,

God takes it many steps beyond.

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