Essence Of : Fine arts photography

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T15:37:00.003-07:00

The new year,
is now placed within our hands
So welcome 2012 with open arms
and carry each day with God's blessing.
and may all that was good in 2011
remain with us and
all that was hurtful be forgiven.
Hope© All rights reserved.

Angels to watch over us

2011-12-12T19:56:00.003-07:00

A Dreamer’s Dream“When you allow angels to be part of your life, miracles truly happen.”
A loving angel came to me in dreams.She showed me life’s not always what it seems,And brought me to a place where sweet dreams live.She gave to me a gift that I now give,

A Dreamer’s Dream.She whispered,
“Take my hand and I will lead you through A place whereonly sweet dreams can come true.Close your eyes and open up your heart,For then this flight of dreams so sweet can start.

Dream, Dreamer, Dream.”She brought me through the darkness to the Light,Where colors wrapped around me, such delight.A patchwork quilt of beauty without seams,Each color was a rainbow full of dreams.

Dreamer’s Dreams.She led me through a hallway of pure sound,With doors flung open widely all around.And from each room a song would gently play.I wished with all my heart that I could stay,In this Dreamer’s Dream.

But we drifted in the fragrance of the breeze,To savor all the flowers and the trees.We tasted all of life that we could see,And felt it flow as one in harmony…..We Dreamed this Dreamer’s Dream.

Then my angel turned her eyes to me and said,“You’re the Keeper of these Dreams inside your head.Find sweet Dreamers, who would Dream of Love and Light, These Dreamswill lead them safely through the night.

Help these Dreamers Dream.”And so I am the Keeper of this Dream, it’s true,But I offer all my Dreams to each of you.May their loving sweetness visit you each nightAnd fill your soul with Love and Warmth and Light.

Dream, Dreamers, Dream! ~unknown

Hope© All rights reserved.

Thanksgiving

2011-11-27T17:40:00.005-07:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving.. sorry I have not been here much.. as I have stated before.. time seems to get away from me.. Thanksgiving is gone and Christmas will soon be upon us.. Today is the first day of Advent..

Whenever you face trials of any kind consider it nothing but joy, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance...so let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking in nothing..
sending you all warm soft hugs..
~Hope

autumn's little blessings

2011-10-25T19:36:00.004-06:00

I know its been a long long time sense I have written...time goes by so fast.. can't believe its the last week of Oct.. does not seem right.. it snowed here today.. just a little.. but snow never the less.. and its been cold.. a bitter cold.. some say its going to be a cold winter.. but then I think we hear that every year.. I pray we don't have a harsh winter like last year. It really wasn't that bad where I live.. but for some of you.. last winter was pretty nasty.
Been watching my grandson a lot.. I do so enjoy him.. he is growing up so fast. It seems he is growing at such a fast rate.. far faster than I remember when my kids were small.. but then the years go by far faster then what I remember back then as well.. Is it old age.. or is the world spinning faster.. I know its so far out of balance it makes me cry inside.. I hope you all have been well.. thank you for your kindness in checking in on me.. and sending up prayers.. I am fine.. somedays are wonderful.. somedays.. "smile"..well... what can one say.. we all have those days.. off and on through out life.. that we wish were not there..
soft hugs ~Hope

Hope© All rights reserved.

tilted and wilted

2011-08-23T08:39:00.000-06:00

Good Monday morning to all of you.. have you ever felt tilted or wilted? I do..
but am doing much better.. for those of you who don't know me.. I have a connective tissue disorder which at times causes me much grief.. and at times puts me down for the count for some time.. this time was a mother of all flairs.. haven't been feeling good for some time.. wore down my body by not eating and doing to much for to long.. then I picked up a plastic shovel.. thats all.. just picked it up.. and by doing so broke some blood vessels in my forefinger.. which in turn blew up my hand the size of a golf ball.. a purple golf ball.. when this happens.. it seems like the rest of the blood vessels in my body want to follow suit.. no rhyme or reason involved.. but its a real bitch..have to be careful not to lift anything heavy.. even typing will make the vessels pop in the fingers.. its never been this bad before..and trying to hold a camera is interesting to say the least.. let alone my grandson.. anyway.. I am not one for talking about all the nonsense that goes on within my body.. but did want those who emailed and have asked what is going on.. to know.. so .. yes I am purple.. good thing that I like the color purple.. right ?? "smile"..

I am fine.. and am on the mend.. "fingers crossed".. but am taking it easy .. don't have much choice in the matter.. hope you all have a beautiful day.. will be around to visit when I can.. much love to you all.. soft hugs ~Hope

Hope© All rights reserved.

sick

2011-08-17T10:36:00.000-06:00

sorry everyone.. not doing all that great.. in a really bad flair.. will be back God willing.. soon..
thinking of you all.. soft hugs ~Hope

Hope© All rights reserved.

10

2011-08-10T08:03:00.001-06:00

Today's program is delayed. do to lack of sleep.. (watching my grandson whom did not sleep last night.. sorry..

Hope© All rights reserved.

9

2011-08-09T01:27:00.001-06:00

submitted to Texture Tuesday

texture by Kim Klassen

Hope© All rights reserved.

8

2011-08-08T00:03:00.001-06:00

submitted to Creative Exchange

Hope© All rights reserved.

7

2011-08-07T08:11:00.002-06:00

When we are alone in prayer or meditation, we reach peace, joy, love and wisdom. That intimate time nourishes us for eternity.~Akiane

a brief intermission ..
I want to thank all who have come in this week and visited or commented.. means a lot to me.. and yes I am going bonkers not talking..this is harder than I thought it would be.. but will continue to do so for the rest of the month.. except ( except on Sundays.. where I will "TALK".. "smile"..
ok now that I can talk... I don't have anything to say.. gotta love it ..
other than explain a little about this photo. it was done in candle light..
and the round cross like thing that the light is shinning on.. is a relic of the true cross.. given to me a long time ago .. has all the documentation and is sealed by the pope.. just a little tidbit of infor.. in case you were wondering what it is..
have a beautiful Sunday everyone.. lots of soft hugs coming your way..
~Hope

Hope© All rights reserved.

6

2011-08-06T01:52:00.014-06:00

5

2011-08-05T08:25:00.000-06:00

4

2011-08-04T08:27:00.000-06:00

3

2011-08-03T08:52:00.000-06:00

Grandma says "shh".. no words..

2011-08-02T07:50:00.003-06:00

August's Journel

2011-08-01T00:13:00.002-06:00

creative exchange
August rushes by like desert rainfall,
A flood of frenzied upheaval,
Expected,
But still catching me unprepared.
Like a match flame
Bursting on the scene,
Heat and haze of crimson sunsets.
Like a dream
Of moon and dark barely recalled,
A moment,
Shadows caught in a blink.
Like a quick kiss;
One wishes for more
But it suddenly turns to leave,
Dragging summer away."
- Elizabeth Maua Taylor, August

I am going to try and join in with the August break.. where one places a photo in their blog each day for the month of august..without words.. might prove to be interesting.."smile"..
I hope you all enjoy this month.. summer is winding down.. kids are getting ready to go back to school.. most will try and pack in as many camping trips or a vacation before August ends..and usually its the hottest month, at least around here it is.
lets see what August has in store..wow.. no words for a whole month.. hummmm...
have a beautiful first day of August..

missing the baby

2011-07-27T01:49:00.002-06:00

Posted in Wordless Wednesday

Scooter pouts like this each time Kale {my grandson} leaves.. he will be like this for a few days.. Kale has learned how to throw the ball for Scooter.. so as far as Scooter is concerned..Kale rocks.. I think so to.. "smile"..have a lovely day everyone.. soft hugs..

Hope© All rights reserved.

The Passage

2011-07-25T07:44:00.012-06:00

In time all undertakings are made good,
All cruelties remedied,
Each bond resealed more firmly than before –
Befriend us, Time, Love’s gaunt executor!
~unknown

Creative Exchange

Hope you all have a lovely day.. will be by to visit later.. my grandson spent the night.. so I am baby busy this morning.. "smile".. soft hugs..

Hope© All rights reserved.

Freedom

2011-07-20T06:56:00.000-06:00

Wordless Wednesday

Hope© All rights reserved.

country lovin

2011-07-18T07:46:00.002-06:00

submitted to the Creative Exchange

Once for all, then, a short precept is given thee:
Love, and do what thou wilt:
whether thou hold thy peace, through love hold thy peace;
whether thou cry out, through love cry out;
whether thou correct, through love correct;
whether thou spare, through love do thou spare:
let the root of love be within,
of this root can nothing spring but what is good.
~ Augustine of Hippo ~

Rather than grumble because roses have thorns. Perhaps one should be thankful that thorns have roses... as in life.. even within its storms.. there is always time for thankfulness for life really is good, if one keeps positive and accepts the love life has to offer.. been busy with my grandson lately.. enjoying the summer what is left of it anyways.. came late this year.. but am so very thankful that summer did come.. enjoy the day.. wishing you all a lovely day.. soft hugs...

Hope~ © All rights reserved.

lap dance

2011-07-06T00:31:00.002-06:00

Submitted for Wordless Wednesday

Hope© All rights reserved.

Celebrating Independence Day..

2011-07-02T21:50:00.000-06:00

I hope that you all have a wonderful 4th of July and a happy Canadian Day..this year one should remember the reason "why" we celebrate Independence Day.. and perhaps read and become familiar with our Constitution.. once again..
Winter has lost its barren grip.. Spring has blossomed..

Summer is here, and its a time once again to sit back.. take a very deep breath.. and become alive...once again..

I took this back in 2007... the kind of fireworks I like.. just pretty.. no noise.. have a safe holiday.. soft hugs..

My adorable grandson.. who holds my heart..

2011-01-22T15:57:00.001-07:00

God made the world out of His dreams Of magic mountains, oceans and streams,
Prairies and plans and wooded land,
Then paused and thought “I need someone to stand On top of mountains, to conquer the seas,
Explore the plains and climb the trees.
Someone to start out small and to grow, strong as a tree…”
And so,
He created boys, full of spirit and fun,
To explore and conquer, to romp and run.
With dirty faces and banged up chins,
With courageous hearts and boyish grins.
When He had completed the task He’d begun
He surely said “A job well done”. ~unknown

hope you all are keeping warm.. and your health is good.. we have been battling a horried flu.. even Kale got a touch of it.. but he is ok now.. and I think I am going to live.. maybe.. "smile"
sending soft warm hugs to all of you..

Hope© All rights reserved.

ice , snow.. and just plain cold

2011-01-07T11:17:00.002-07:00

went for a drive the other night.. the snow sparkled like diamonds. tried to take a photo of it.. but only came up with this.. does not sparkle..but that is ok.. not all things that sparkle are good things.. pretty to look out at.. not to pretty when one is out and about in it.. The roads are so icy here, and me with two bald rear tires.. ya.. I like to live on the edge.. NOT.. I don't like being cold either.. but where do I live? in the most coldest territory ever.. so who's fault is that ?
Could blame it on my parents.. after all they are the ones who had me here.. its their fault that I fell in love with this state.. right ?
Blame.. where we put blame.. we sure don't put it where it belongs that is for sure.. we blame religion for not going along with what we want or don't want as a life style. .. we blame the government for the mess in which we find ourselves in.. in which to be honest. I do blame the government for a lot of things.. but is that really right ? is it "their" fault.. or does the blame really sit at our own door?
we have all heard the saying.. Don't look back at the past.. for the past is gone.. don't look towards the future for its not here yet.. only look at the present.. I have said that so many times.. have heard it so many times.. and so many times I have believed it to be true.. until now.
One has to look to the past.. for its in the past that we learn from the mistakes we make.
One has to look to the future.. for that is where we are heading.. and what we do today.. makes the path for the future. and if one only looks to the present day.. one will find themselves a little stagnant. I think.. a little selfish.. a little self absorbed.. and that is where the problem really lies I believe. self absorbed..
no matter what might be the main drive.. could be money. sex. freedom, most will do what it takes to get what they want.. and if that means changing their beliefs, so be it.. as long as they get what they want does not matter if its wrong.. or not.. its "their" life.. and will live it as "they" see fit.. Period.
the majority of the world has this type of thinking.
Morals have been shredded..Respect has been put on a shelf.. what does one have without morals or respect.. given or received.. destruction... that is what one has.
within as well ...yep within.. have you ever wondered about the soul?.. if its true..( in which I believe that it is. ) Our soul lives for ever.. FOREVER.. that means for all of eternity.. do we respect our soul? do we allow our soul to live within the morals of life ? something to think about .. for if we continue to be so self absorbed in material or "flesh" needs, .. what paths are we clearing for "our" eternity ?

Maybe, just maybe we should start looking at a bigger picture here.. when it comes to our way of living..
rather humbling once you think about it... ok.. off the soap box.. for now.

for those of you who are freezing.. keep the faith.. the snow queen's dance will soon be over..
or so I keep telling my self.. "smile".
soft "warm" hugs
Hope

.

Hope© All rights reserved.

and the clock ticks

2010-12-31T04:44:00.001-07:00

Wishing you all a Happy New Year

I have thought about just deleting this blog .. even have tried a few times.. but for what ever reason I am still here.. so is this blog.. maybe its just time for a change.. I have had Essence for long time.. in that time I have met some wonderful people.. some not so.. but that is the way of life.. some good some not so good..

with the way things are going in this world of ours.. I want to hide to be honest..
but at the same time I have this need to reach out.. why I don't know.

where I am going with this I don't know that either..
guess I just wanted to say hi.. and to wish who do come in a Happy New Year.. 2011.. just does not seem right to me.. but then I didn't like the sounds of 2010 either..

there really inset much time.. and there is so much to do.. its hard to get things in order in a very disorderly world..one step at a time..

Hold on to your faith.. hold on to the teachings that are true.. be honest in what you do.. be kind to yourself.. forgive those who cause pain.. greet one another with a smile.. for a smile can warm a cold heart.. give lots of soft hugs.. for they give comfort to ones soul.. and love.. really really give love.. for it brings about healing in a very cold world..

soft hugs with love..
Hope

Hope© All rights reserved.

Christmas smiles

2010-12-18T17:54:00.001-07:00

can ya feel it ? The most blessed event will soon be here..

all of creation is preparing.. to give praise.. to a sweet little baby...
make sure you open up your heart to give him warmth.

soft hugs
Hope

Hope© All rights reserved.

Christmas Blessings

2010-12-12T12:04:00.001-07:00

I know some of you have tried to access my blog the past week, only to find it private.. I had to shut down for awhile.. and still won't be blogging for awhile longer.. sometimes one just has to take time away..
to regain their perspective..but wanted you all to know, that I will try and visit you as I can..your friendship does mean a lot to me.. and I thank you for your understanding and your continued support...
hope that your Christmas shopping is almost done and that you are enjoying this beautiful time of year..
much love.. and soft hugs..
Hope

Hope© All rights reserved.

Do you hear it ?

2010-12-04T00:50:00.001-07:00

If you listen really carefully..
you may just hear the wondrous sounds of Christmas..

and if you really really listen.. you just may hear an angel's wing,

its almost here.. "happy smiles"

Hope© All rights reserved.

25 days until Christmas..

2010-12-01T23:13:00.001-07:00

Waiting in anticipation
for the Light of the world to come..
giving warmth and joy..
Peace and love..
melting coldness of hearts..
igniting the embers deep within
uniting the world once again
in brotherhood..

Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen. ~Author unknown, attributed to a 7-year-old named Bobby

"smile" I so love the Christmas season..

Hope© All rights reserved.

The soul

2010-11-28T14:13:00.003-07:00

There are so many misconceptions in life.. things we tend to believe to be true.. and most will fight to the death to prove that what they think is right..

Take a look at all of the misconceptions we have about God.. who He is.. what He is about.. we have many different idea's on the conception of heaven.. and how one gets there.. what will be there .. who will be there..

The misconceptions we have on when life starts.. can boggle ones mind..some say life does not start until one takes its first breath..I may not be a scientist.. nor a doctor.. but I am a mother.. and I can tell you first hand.. that life begins way before it takes its first breath..

and what about the misconceptions of where and how we came to be?Our late Pope John Paul 11.. gave a pretty good explanation of this.. when presented by a scientist who was a friend of his.. about the possibility of man evolving from monkeys.. In essence the pope told his friend.. that it really did not matter where the body of man came from..for it will only turn into dust once it dies.. what was important was where the soul of man came from.. and where the soul of man goes after death..for its the soul that lives on..

We being human tend to put things in human form and understanding.. so when we are told that God created us in His image.. we tend to vision a human form.. and because Jesus was half man and half God.. then it makes sense to us.. that God looks like us.. or we look like God.. in Human form..but we tend to ignore the soul.. its our souls that reflect the image of God.. not our bodies.. for our body is only a shell that encases the soul.. which is what will last through out eternity..

have you ever wondered what our soul look like ? how do we feed the soul.. how do we access our soul.. ? how do we relate to that which we can't not see.. but in truth is our very essence..?

we feed our bodies.. we clothe our bodies.. our bodies get sick..we go and see a doctor.. we take meds.. our bodies die.. it decays.. and goes back to dust..

But what about the soul? Have you ever really thought about your soul.. what it looks like.. what happens to it.. can we kill it?

Seems like we tend to kill a lot of things through out our lives..past /and present history of the human race is evidence that we can be a savage..selfish..race..when we suffocate the soul..

war rages within us all the time.. our body yearns for one thing.. while the soul yearns for another..its a consent battle.. in the end.. the body will die..the soul will live.. what happens to it then.. depends on how strong it became on what it was fed while imprisoned with in the body..

will it be brilliant and soft.. or ugly and crippled..

guess its up to us.. on what we want to it to reflect..how we feed it..how we take care of it..

my archives from wls..

Hope© All rights reserved.

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T01:55:00.003-07:00

Its been minus below 0 here for the past few days.. have about a foot of snow..
skies have been dark and gray.. but what give me hope is the knowledge that spring
will once again come our way.. and we will un-thaw..

My home has a wonderful aroma of fresh baked bread.. cooling pies.. and come morning.. the delicious smell
of a turkey cooking in the oven..
by mid afternoon it will be filled with sounds of laughter.. and smiles.. it will be my grandsons first Thanksgiving dinner.. and 62 years ago to the date come tomorrow.. I came to visit this earth.. I am thankful for many things.. being able to have seen the ocean and felt its power and peace...
being blessed with living around magistic mountains that surround and protect me..
having a lovely family..
reconnecting with my sisters..
.this journey I have walked while here has had its ups and its downs.. its joys and sorrows.. each one has helped me grow.. and become who I am.. and with God's grace I will continue to learn and to grow..
and I am thankful for the friendships that I have received here..
I pray that those of you who celebrate Thanksgiving that you will have a very blessed one.
and that the light and love of Thanksgiving will shine within your heart..and within
your homes..

softest of hugs..
Hope

Hope© All rights reserved.

Remember lest we forget..

2010-11-11T07:58:00.001-07:00

"11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month" ....Take your 2 minutes of Silence in Remembrance...†

Hope© All rights reserved.

Winters touch

2010-11-09T17:18:00.001-07:00

Its so comforting to know that no matter who or what we may have become through out the years. We can never move beyond God's love. Our bodies may show the wear and tear of the years past. Our souls can become disfigured, and disgraced by the multitude of its sins. But unlike the body, which can't regain its luster of former years. The soul can quickly return to its former beauty. if we give ample and exact repentance, of the damage we caused it.
Something to think about.

I have that winter cold/flu that comes knocking at my door same time each year..
plus its around the time I tend to hibernate..
winters icy fingers have touched the earth here..
not enough snow to last.. so it gets melted or dirty..

that in-between time of fall and winter where it does not know just quiet what to do.. is the hardest I think..I know it is on me..
I would just as well want it to snow and snow hard.. get it over with.. no ice.. just snow.. much warmer that way.. not to mention the beauty it holds.. when it first really falls hard..
or soft but a lot.."smile"
will be in and out.. to visit you all as I can..
softest of hugs
always Hope

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

sunset Sunday 4

2010-11-07T12:53:00.003-07:00

Dreams are like sunshine to the soul.. and sunshine is natures laughter..
so laugh more.. and dream often..

May you find serenity and tranquility in a world you may not
always understand.
May the pain you have known and
the conflict you have experienced
give you the strength to walk through life facing each new
situation with courage and optimism.
Always know that there are those whose love and understanding will
always be there, even when you feel most alone.
May you discover enough goodness in others to
believe in a world of peace.
May a kind word, a reassuring touch,
a warm smile be yours every day of your life,
and may you give these gifts as well as receive them.
Remember the sunshine when the storm seems unending.
Teach love to those who know hate,
and let that love embrace you as
you go into the world.
May the teaching of those you admire become part of you,
so that you may call upon them.
Remember, those whose lives you have touched
and who have touched yours are always a part of you,
even if the encounters were less than you would have wished.
It is the content of the encounter that is more important than its' form.
May you not become too concerned with material matters,
but instead place immeasurable value on the goodness in your heart.
Find time in each day to see the beauty and
love in the world around you.
Realize that each person has limitless abilities,
but each of us is different in our own way.
What you may feel you lack in one regard
may be more than compensated for in another.
What you feel you lack in the present
may become one of your strengths in the future.
May you see your future as one filled
with promise and possibility.
Learn to view everything as a worthwhile experience.
May you find enough inner strength to
determine your own worth by yourself,
and not be dependent on another's judgements
of your accomplishments.

~author unknown~

Have a beautiful beautiful day..
soft hugs always Hope

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

a soft gentle glow

2010-11-05T10:44:00.000-06:00

Sometimes in life its really hard to have faith, or trust. Its hard at times to realize that there are others suffering just as we might be. When we are children we enjoy each day. We wonder at the beauty of life. and are filled with wondrous expectations.
We all know how fragile a baby is. We instinctively handle babies with care. Even most animals treat babies with care. When is the time where this changes? When we are no longer handled with care.

Is it when we become teens? Is it when we reach adulthood? When does this turning point begin?
Perhaps if we treated everyone as fine crystal, knowing just how fragile it is. The world would be a nicer place. Perhaps if we stood outside of our selves, and saw the impact of our words or expressions have on others. We would realize just how fragile each and every one of us are and will always be.

we have been given 10 commandments.. to live by.. we fail miserably.
.but we keep trying to live according to what those commandments teach..
. but we tend to forget the most important of all..
Jesus said.." I have come to give you a new commandment.. and that is "TO LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOU LOVE YOUR SELF"

Do we heed that message?
I fear not..
if we did.. then we would not have the unrest that causes such pain..
we would not be fearful of anothers belief's.. or life style..
instead we would acept our neighbors for who they are and where they are in life..
we would give them a helping hand filled with wisdom and compassion for them to carry with them..upon their journey..
rather than making their journey burdendsome.. filled with anger and mistrust.
God also tells us NOT TO JUDGE.. for he is the judge in all things..
perhaps it time to do some soul searching.. perhaps it time to get on ones knees and pray.
then .. to really "listen" to the message that our creator is trying to give us..
don't ya think??
Guandi tells us that we must be the change we seek..
so today I light a candle for GOD"S TRUTH TO BE KNOWN.. to be followed.. to become the main force in all of our lives.. let TRUTH reign.. allow it to penatrate into the darkest part of ones soul.. then watch as it flys upward and on ward through out the earth..

.

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

November

2010-11-02T02:50:00.000-06:00

"The wild November come at last
Beneath a veil of rain;
The night winds blows its folds aside,
Her face is full of pain.
The latest of her race, she takes
The Autumn's vacant throne:
She has but one short moon to live,
And she must live alone."
- Richard Henry Stoddard,

I enjoy November..within its starkness a transistion between fall and winter begin.
there is a silence that resenates within the starkness of chilly nights.. and shorter days..
nature begins to prepare to snuggle down in antisapation for a long winters sleep..
one can't help but to be thankful for that which has been given... and will be given again..

so with thankful hearts.. we bring in November.

.

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

End of Oct

2010-10-30T12:14:00.000-06:00

its gate is now closed.. and with it a change in the air is felt.. snow will once again cover the earth.. and all will snuggle down for a long winters rest..

"Your tombstone stands among the rest;
neglected and alone
The name and date are chiseled out
on polished, marbled stone
It reaches out to all who care
It is too late to mourn
You did not know that I’d exist
You died and I was born.
Yet each of us are cells of you
in flesh, in blood, in bone.
Our blood contracts and beats a pulse
entirely not our own.
Dear Ancestor, the place you filled
one hundred years ago
Spreads out among the ones you left
who would have loved you so.
I wonder if you lived and loved,
I wonder if you knew
That someday I would find this spot,
and come to visit you."
~unknown

“And the smile that is worth the praises of earth is the smile that shines through tears”

Grandma's pearls..

Don't much care for Halloween.. but for those of you who do like it.. I wish you a scary night filled with ghosts and gobblins.. and many children begging for your goods..

I know I haven't been around much visiting you all.. and for that I am so very sorry..
times around here are a bit shaky most days.. with getting things ready for winter..
watching my grandson..( who by the way is now scooting all over the place at a very high rate of speed
..) and just the normal last days of fall depression.. that hits us all in one way or another..
but there is a bright light that waits ahead of us.. and that is Christmas.. always brings in the smiles and laughter.. I will do my best to get around to visit you all..
until then.. have a safe and happy Halloween..
much love and soft hugs always..
~Hope

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

Fading memories

2010-10-25T20:18:00.000-06:00

Remember your Creator while you're still young and give Him the best of your life. The years pass quickly, and soon you'll be old and will say to yourself, 'I surely don't enjoy life like 1 used to.' When those days come, your eyesight will grow dim, and you will see little difference between a bright sunny day and a moonlit night. The stars will fade from your view, and each day the sky will seem overcast and dark, filled with clouds of rain" (Ecclesiastes 12: 1, 2, The Clear Word)

There was a scar on yonder mountain-side

Gashed out where once the cruel storm had trod:

A barren, desolate chasm, reaching wide

Across the soft green sod.

But years crept by beneath the purple pines,

and veiled the scar with grass and moss once more..

and left it fairer now with flowers and vines

Than it had been before..

There was a wound once in a gentle heart,

Whence all life's sweetness seemed to ebb and die..

And love's confiding changed to bitter smart,

While slow , sad years went by..

Yet as they passed, unseen an angel stole

And laid a balm of healing on the pain..

Till love grew purer in the heart made whole.

And peace came back again..

author unknown~

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

a little bit of country in the fall

2010-09-23T11:30:00.000-06:00

secret places, where time stands still..

My great escape..love walking around here.. not really much to see.. but its open and free..
and makes ones soul sore..

I love railroads.. used to play around them all the time when young.. can't do that anymore.. but the memories will always linger..

last of summers beauty..

I think I have had enough of fall.. really missing the warmth of summer..those wonderful smiles only flowers can bring.. the smell of BBQ's..open fire pits.. camping.. but then I can still BBQ.. so not all is lost.."smile"

Have a beautifully soft and kind day.. much love..
~Hope

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

Getting ready..

2010-09-22T00:45:00.000-06:00

The Bath..

Fine cleaning...

Fluff dry

Enjoying the sunset together..

may you have a beautiful day as he did..
soft hugs.. ~Hope

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

Sunset.. Sunrise Sunday

2010-09-19T00:40:00.000-06:00

These are some of the headframes that are around town.. they are no longer used of course.. but they stand tall.. more of a memorial to the miners that worked in these mines in that time frame.

Mother wept, and father sigh’d;
With delight a-glow
Cried the lad, “To-morrow,” cried,
“To the pit I go.”

Up and down the place he sped,
Greeted old and young,
Far and wide the tidings spread,
Clapp’d his hands and sung.

Came his cronies, some to gaze
Rapt in wonder; some
Free with counsel; some with praise;
Some with envy dumb.

“May he,” many a gossip cried,
“Be from peril kept;”
Father hid his face and sighed,
Mother turned and wept
~unknown

Have a beautiful, peaceful and very restful Sunday.
soft hugs ~Hope

Sunset/sunrise Sunday..hosted by Another point of view.

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

Ladies of Autumn

2010-09-18T03:39:00.000-06:00

There is a harmony
In autumn, and a lustre in its sky,
Which through the summer is not heard or seen,
As if it could not be, as if it had not been!
- Percy Bysshe Shelley

No Spring nor Summer Beauty hath such grace
As I have seen in one Autumnal face.
- John Donne

~ Autumn, the year's last, loveliest smile. ~

If winter is slumber and spring is birth, and summer is life, then autumn rounds out to be reflection. It's a time of year when the leaves are down and the harvest is in and the perennials are gone. Mother Earth just closed up the drapes on another year and it's time to reflect on what's come before. ~unknown

slideshow of the Ladies of Autumn

Been watching my grandson who is almost 4 months now.... its always a pleasure when he is around. smiles come in floods.. laughter is catching.. and life is ever so good..
Have a beautiful soft and kind day..
soft hugs ~Hope

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

Autumn's love

2010-09-15T20:20:00.002-06:00

It starts with a kiss..

then an embrace..

she starts to flirt..

as the leaves start to fall

they play the last symphony.

.

All season long Autumn will proudly display
A skein of beautiful colors day after day
Until again the cold, Northerly Winds will blow
To eagerly remind us of the forthcoming snow.

It is Autumn's disposition to please each heart
With a spectacular event from the season's start.
The dark days of winter are now approaching fast,
So, Hail to Autumn for its memorable cast.
Hazelmarie Elliott

to be continued..

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

Let the light shine

2010-09-14T12:40:00.001-06:00

When we are attached to Him (through constant prayer), when we truly let our spirits move beyond emotions, when we "step outside" of ourselves (in humility, with unconditional caring), we transcend to levels of which we have not even dreamed and see that "dark" times are just clouds we pass through.

I hope you all have a glorious day.. semi nice here..
soft hugs always ~Hope

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

Rising above the storm

2010-09-12T01:24:00.004-06:00

With out color morning comes
walls of rain block rays of warmth
a soul prays

Night settles in..
reflecting the
consuming fire of uncertainty
a soul prays

A new day begins..
Look above the clouds..
emerge yourself within its light.
.its where a
soul gives thanks

This is Sunset..Sunrise..Sunday..

for those who are uncertain in these uncertain times.
for those who find themselves lost.
in clouds of doubt.
look beyond the storms..
look towards the light in all things.

soft hugs.. Hope

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

Balance and wisdom

2010-09-11T13:05:00.001-06:00

Embrace that which is about you.
let your heart express its love.
Give guidance.. nurture others and
show that you care.

Let wisdome become your balance..
for it comes from a deeper source..
where peace and acceptence flows.

Love is a soothing flower,
let it flow with grace.
honor all things on
equal ground.

There is hope beyond the clouds..
as the birds sing.. sing along.
take time to relax. let judgements go..
balance will come if you let
wisdom flow.

hope you all have a kind and soft day.
soft hugs Hope

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

Some say

2010-09-08T16:34:00.000-06:00

Some say love, it is a river
That drowns the tender reed
Some say love, it is a razor
That leaves your soul to bleed
Some say love, it is a hunger
An endless aching need
I say love, it is a flower
And you, its only seed

It's the heart, afraid of breaking
That never learns to dance
It's the dream, afraid of waking
That never takes the chance
It's the one who won't be taken
Who cannot seem to give
And the soul, afraid of dying
That never learns to live

When the night has been too lonely
And the road has been too long
And you think that love is only
for the lucky and the strong
Just remember in the winter
Far beneath the bitter snow
Lies the seed
That with the sun's love, in the spring
Becomes the rose
The Rose - Bette Midler

Not really up to pare at the moment. Weather perhaps.. changing of seasons.. just that odd state one gets into. that and with being cold one day hot the next.. really taxes my body.
so if I don't get around to visiting you.. please know why..
until next time..
I hope your day is kind and soft..
soft hugs always ~Hope

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

The burning bush

2010-09-05T15:47:00.000-06:00

Today is Sunday.. almost forgot about a blog I ran across last week.. he has a sunrise, sunset Sunday photo.. which is open to anyone who wants to have a link to their photo..its called Finding Another View its a very informative and he has wonderful photography.. should check it out..

I've been going through some old photos lately, and came across one that sort of stuck out for me today.. perhaps its because a dear friend commented on one of the recent photos I put up.. about it looking like a burning bush..
This photo below is one that I took back on Oct of 2008..

The skies really were on fire.. although I did do some post processing in photoshop..
the white spot on the mountain is a statue of Our Ladies of the Rockies.

not to sure if this quailfies for sunrise/sunset Sunday or not.. but for here.. today it seems fitting.. as its cold right out right now.. wind is blowing hard in little spurts.. yesterday the wind was harsh and mean. lost power for a little while.

Hope you all have a beautiful Sunday..

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

Lay down your weary tune

2010-09-04T02:17:00.002-06:00

Struck by the sounds before the sun
I knew the night had gone
The morning breeze like a bugle blew
Against the drums of dawn..

The ocean wild like an organ played
The seaweed’s wove its strands
The crashin’ waves like cymbals clashed
Against the rocks and sands

I stood unwound beneath the skies
And clouds unbound by laws
The cryin’ rain like a trumpet sang
And asked for no applause

The last of leaves fell from the trees
And clung to a new love’s breast
The branches bare like a banjo played
To the winds that listened best

I gazed down in the river’s mirror
And watched its winding strum
The water smooth ran like a hymn
And like a harp did hum

Lay down your weary tune, lay down
Lay down the song you strum
And rest yourself ’neath the strength of strings
No voice can hope to hum

words to song by Bob Dylan..
Copyright © 1964, 1965 by Warner Bros. Inc.; renewed 1992, 1993 by Special Rider Music

I was in the mood for Bob Dylan, and had some photos that I didn't know just what to do with..

I hope you all have a great Labor Day Weekend for those of you who celebrate it.
soft hugs ~Hope

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

water force of life

2010-09-02T23:47:00.001-06:00

Water is one of the four elements, the most beautiful of God's creations.
Holy Scripture says, "And the
darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon
the face of the waters." Water, then, is the most beautiful element its rich in
usefulness, and purifies from all filth, and not only from the body
but from the soul,as well,

Our Souls are like pools of still water upon which the spirits rains fall, sending out tiny ripples of waves that whisper our destiny's call.

Every soul is a melody which needs renewing ~Stephane Mallarme

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

perfume of flowers

2010-08-27T10:02:00.000-06:00

Some people worry that artificial intelligence will make us feel inferior, but then, anybody in his right mind should have an inferiority complex every time he looks at a flower. ~Alan C. Kay

Flowers Perfume.
their fragrance intoxifing.
their beauty overwhelimg
their simplicity awe inspiring.
touched by God's smile.

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

healing properties

2010-08-25T18:58:00.002-06:00

To feel the oceans energy is sometimes slow and graceful.. sometimes wild and harsh. Same as anything we encounter in life.

in this journey its seem we take two steps forward and one step back.

and get bogged down and stung by the sands.

I think one should remember that there is always an oases ,
we really are well taken care of.

as one rhythm ends.. another begins..

Life is good.
until next time. softest of hugs.

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

Went for a walk today up in the mountains

2010-08-24T02:24:00.000-06:00

Our Forests are dieing..
so many of our pines have been infected by the pine beetles. Makes me sad that so many of our trees are dead.

There is still a wonderful sense of softness and peace here though..

this huge bolder..was just sitting feeling grovey, under the warm sun.

I think Gnomes live here

sat here awhile thinking of a friend..

This butterfly landed on my knee.. we just sat and talked for a little while.

Be careful of your thoughts, for your thoughts become your words.

Be careful of your words, for your words become your actions.

Be careful of your actions, for your actions become your habits.

Be careful of your habits, for your habits become your character.

Be careful of your character, for your character becomes your destiny.

until next time.. God be with you..
soft hugs ~Hope

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

Ladies of the Lake

2010-08-12T22:25:00.001-06:00

"smiling"..My sisters my mom and me. oh.. and two of my nieces

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

Fun on the lake

2010-08-06T11:10:00.000-06:00

My sister Fran has 3 boys.. they all went out on the canoe.. the oldest one was in the middle.. somewhere along the way.. he fell out of the canoe.. story goes that the boat tipped a little and he did not realize it.. hahaha.. we all believe that the tipping was helped along by the two younger brothers..

The one that fell out got his revenge.. by making his younger brothers pull him all the way back to shore

My sister Jen and her hubby with the twins.. introducing them to the lake.. they loved it. They were so cute bundled up in the life vests and their cute little hats.. its a wonder that they could see much at all..

Early morning fishing..

and of course.. one can't be by a lake without someone water skiing..
don't know who this was.. but he was having fun.. he did fall.. but didn't get a capture of that.. I did ask if I could have a rerun on his fall.. but they declined..with a smile..

don't know who this was either.. but couldn't help but take his picture..

I miss my morning walks down by the lake.. miss the water lillies.. the peace..and all the activity that happens when by water.. do have some wonderful memories that will last a life time though..
hope you enjoy..
soft hugs as always
~Hope

Hope© All rights reserved. all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

now at peace

2010-07-31T17:48:00.001-06:00

a friend of mine died.. she was a troubled soul.. always wanting to be accepted,, she just never understood that she was..the poem below is one that she wrote just before her death.. I believe that she found the peace she so wanted in life..
I will miss her.. deeply.

I Surrender

I pray alone on the

mountain tops of night.

It is so calm, so still. All is dark; yet coming closer and closer

to me is a robe of great brilliance.

I close my eyes in fear. It's the full sun.

He stops before me,

dazzling, dancing.

His presence pierces through my whole being yet consuming me not.

I kiss the earth before

brilliance. I let go and fly to ecstasy.

Oh, God, before such beauty I Surrender!

- Nona Biernat of the Holy Trinity OCDS.

little treasures Molly and Lizzy

2010-07-27T10:36:00.004-06:00

My youngest sister has twin girls.. they are 6 and a half months old..
first time I was able to see them.. such wonder and delight to be around the wee ones..

Mollly

Lizzy

melts ones heart don't they..
I missed Kale so much while I was gone.. and much to my delight he is smiling and I even received two giggles from him this morning.. best start for morning wake ups..
hope these photos of the girls does the same for you...
will be back soon.. getting the internet back this week.. WAHOOOO..
"smiling"
soft hugs Hope

Hope© All rights reserved.all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

a Ocean, a lake.. and peace

2010-07-26T01:07:00.010-06:00

Got home today.. was a long trip home.Had a wonderful time.. .
the place where we stayed was the most beautiful lake I have ever seen.. there were water lilies by both docks. Mom told me that what we call water lilies are really lotus blossoms.. which means Good Luck and Peace.. I can testify to the peace they give.. to look out at the blue water on a lake , with the contrast of pink flowers swaying with each ripple puts one in complete awe..

it was one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen..and the lake was amazing..its water was warm.. each morning the fog would roll in..there was such beauty all around.

the home we stayed at was amazing.. and the grounds around the house leading to the lake was covered with flowers.. paths.and trails..

I so wanted to see a rainbow.. and was so surprised when I upload this photo of the home we stayed at..

the ocean was about 9 miles from where we stayed.. got to spend a few days there.. it was so very cold.. and the wind was nasty but the sea was ever so beautiful

missed you all.. glad to be home.. will update again soon..
sandy hugs..
for my sisters by choice.

Poppies

2010-07-08T23:23:00.005-06:00

Each year I get a surprise in my yard.. this year its poppies.. I have lived here for the past 10 years.. and never any poppies.. but this year I have 8 of them.. where they come from.. or why I don't know.. but to me its a little smile from God...

I was watching my mom's little dog today , so I went out and took some photos of him along with the poppies.. think I will have one of them printed out and give it to my mom for her birthday..

I haven't been able to update for sometime..its hard using someone elses computer.. makes one feel as though they are trespassing.. I am going to be going to the Oregon coast for two weeks.. we are having a 80th birthday party for my mom.. haven't seen my sisters for over 15 years.. so its going to be interesting.. will try and update once I get back.. have so much to share.. little time to do it in.. and someday soon I pray I will be back in the Internet.. until next time.. remember your in my thoughts.. and prayers..
much love and soft hugs always.. ~Hope

Hope© All rights reserved.all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

The Rose

2010-02-04T17:22:00.003-07:00

A certain man planted a rose and watered it faithfully, and before it

blossomed, he examined it. He saw the bud that would soon blossom

and also the thorns. And he thought, "How can any beautiful flower

come from a plant burdened with so many sharp thorns?" Saddened by

this thought, he neglected to water the rose, and before it was ready to

bloom, it died.

So it is with many people. Within every soul there is a rose.The

God-like qualities planted in us at birth grow amid the thorns of our

faults. Many of us look at ourselves and see only the thorns, the

defects. We despair, thinking that nothing good can possibly come from

us. We neglect to water the good within us, and eventually it dies. We

never realize our potential.

Some people do not see the rose within themselves; someone else must

show it to them. One of the greatest gifts a person can possess is to be

able to reach past the thorns and find the rose within others. This is the

characteristic of love, to look at a person, and knowing his faults,

recognize the nobility in his soul, and help him realize that he can

overcome his faults. If we show him the rose, he will conquer the

thorns. Then will he blossom, blooming forth thirty, sixty, a

hundred-fold as it is given to him.

Our duty in this world is to help others by showing them their roses and

not their thorns. Only then can we achieve the love we should feel for

each other; only then can we bloom in our own garden.

~Author Unknown~

tranquility

2008-12-03T18:51:00.005-07:00

Dedicated to a very special friend, and kindred sister..who's talent and passion for life is more awe inspiring that she knows.

May you find serenity and tranquility in a world you may not
always understand.
May the pain you have known and
the conflict you have experienced
give you the strength to walk through life facing each new
situation with courage and optimism.
Always know that there are those whose love and understanding will
always be there, even when you feel most alone.
May you discover enough goodness in others to
believe in a world of peace.
May a kind word, a reassuring touch,
a warm smile be yours every day of your life,
and may you give these gifts as well as receive them.
Remember the sunshine when the storm seems unending.
Teach love to those who know hate,
and let that love embrace you as
you go into the world.
May the teaching of those you admire become part of you,
so that you may call upon them.
Remember, those whose lives you have touched
and who have touched yours are always a part of you,
even if the encounters were less than you would have wished.
It is the content of the encounter that is more important than its' form.
May you not become too concerned with material matters,
but instead place immeasurable value on the goodness in your heart.
Find time in each day to see the beauty and
love in the world around you.
Realize that each person has limitless abilities,
but each of us is different in our own way.
What you may feel you lack in one regard
may be more than compensated for in another.
What you feel you lack in the present
may become one of your strengths in the future.
May you see your future as one filled
with promise and possibility.
Learn to view everything as a worthwhile experience.
May you find enough inner strength to
determine your own worth by yourself,
and not be dependent on another's judgments
of your accomplishments.
~unknown

Hope© All rights reserved.
all writings and photos are copyrighted.. you may not use any of my photos without my written permission.. to use any photos please contact me.. thank you

Joseph and Mary..

2006-12-05T23:19:00.001-07:00

I always wonder about the faith that both Joseph and Mary had.. can you just imagine if an angel were to appear to you one day.. telling you that you were to have a child.. that this child will be conceived through God spirit.. what would you do? Would you like Mary.. fall upon your knees and say "let it be done unto me according to Thy Word..?

She believed..

An angle came to Joseph and told him that Mary was to have a child.. that would not be his.. but to have faith.. in that she was not unfaithful unto him..

He believed..

Mary about ready to give birth.. travels on the back of a donkey.. to a town she does not know.. in faith alone.. that all will be well..

The trails that this family went through.. bringing forth a child of God.. protecting this child.. nurturing this child.. shielding this child.. from the coldness of hearts..

They believed.

To believe so deeply.. to have faith in that belief is something for all to strive for.. a unity of spirits.. a connection to all that is Holy.. Pure.. and True..

To believe..as Joseph and Mary..

Angles still come..

Truth to be found..

Love to behold..

Listen to their whispers..

leading you home..

soft hugs ~Hope

Reflections

2006-09-14T11:23:00.002-06:00

Walking along a beach or sitting up top of a cliff, watching and feeling the strength of waves rushing to shore.. One is captured within its force.. You finding your self breathing deep each time the waves come in.. you enter into its rhythm..you close your eyes and feel each wave rushing into your soul.. and as each waves withdraws back to sea.. there is a comprehensive glimmer of 'who' we are..

Looking within, is like looking at a reflection in a pond.. sometimes its clear and still.. sometimes its stormy causing ripples of disfigurement..making the reflection obscure..

perhaps its looking outside of oneself is when we see beauty's reflection..

~Hope

The bear

2006-08-29T11:44:00.003-06:00

Resting by the camp fire after the mornings exacerbating ( and insane ) run. Joy muses over the thought of telling Dan about the encounter she had with a little yearling brown bear. It wasn't like it was the first time they had an encounter with the bears..For the past two weeks the black bear and her two yearlings had come nearby the camp on what seemed to be their daily morning route. Usually far enough away not to be of a concern. Except perhaps for the brown bear, as he was more curious than the rest..and was beginning to become braver and closer the past few days..

Her thoughts were interrupted by the racket of the logging truck coming down the steep dirt road into camp. As Dan and Pat jump down from the truck they were greeted by Beth running towards them, arms outstretched and gleefully yelling "Daddy, momma made a bear run up a tree!"

As the three drew closer into camp, Joy could see the puzzled look on Dan's face as Beth was reciting what had happened earlier that day. "Hey Love, how was your day?" Joy asks, as Dan bends over kissing her cheek.... before Dan has a chance to say anything , Danny interrupts him with .."DAD, you should have seen what mom did." While Beth climbs down from her father arms, Dan looks over to his wife, then back again towards his son. At that moment Joy tells Beth and Danny to go and put some soda in the creek, so it will get cold.. Dan draws close to Joy and asks "What's going on?"..

Taking a very deep breath.. she starts to explain what happened. "You know that little brown bear that has been coming into camp? Well, we were still in the tent this morning when I heard some noise outside. I looked out, and there was that bear playing with the can goods.. I yelled at it.. and he started to run off.. but then stopped a few yards away. So I got out of the tent grabbed a stick and yelled at it again..he started to run off but then stopped and looked back towards me..I figured that yelling again would not do anything.. so..(taking another deep breath.) so.. I ran after it.. chased it across the creek before he stopped. Then the little bugger, puffed up, swatted his paws on the ground and grunted at me..THREE times!! he grunted.. so I puffed up, swatted my foot on the ground and grunted back.. he went up the tree.. I left...he stayed...that's all.." she said as she touches her tummy feeling the baby kick and slowly turns around.. looking towards Dan and Pat.. Pat shakes his head, states under his breath that he needs a beer and starts to walk towards the creek. Dan steps back a step, and the once peaceful forest explodes with the resounding words of "YOU DID WHAT?"

This is a true story.. "smiling".. what can I say

Rest awhile

2006-05-31T13:14:00.001-06:00

There was this huge old tree that sat along the edge of a creek that ran though my granparents farm.. I would climb up and sit on one of its branches, when I was down or just wanted to be alone.. it was my thinking tree.. that is what I called it anyway.. I even carved my name on one of its branches..

I used to tell my children when they were out of sorts to go find a tree and sit by it for awhile.. and if need be.. tell that tree your most deepest secrets..and by doing so they might feel a little more refreshed afterwards.. I would tell them about my thinking tree.. and how it helped me gain inner strength and peace..when my world seemed so dark..
of course they thought I was a wee bit crazy.. for how could a tree give inner strength or peace to ones soul..

One summer not long after my divorce from their father, I was able to bring my children to my granparents farm.. it had been years sense anyone lived there.. the house was still standing.. but no longer liveable..as the mice and spiders had taken over..
We parked the camp trailer close to the house and I showed them around the farm.. They wanted to see this famous thinking tree that I had so often spoke of.. but we couldn't find it..

We spent about a week there, fishing and swiming..and just enjoying the peace of being there.. away from the stress we all had endured the past few months..the children loved the creek and were getting pretty good at diving off an old tree that had fallen across the creek..It was nice to hear their laughter as they would jump off this old tree into the water.. it was what they needed to take their minds off what had happend between their father an me..

It was the last day of our visit to the farm.. it was hot.. and I was sitting on this tree dangling my feet in the water watching them swim.. my oldest son swam up to me grabbed my foot and into the water I went..as I came up I noticed writting on the underside of the tree.. it was my name.. this was my tree.. tears started to fill my eyes.. my son thought that I had gotten hurt when he pulled me into the water.. all I could do was point to the writting..

This old wonderful tree that had given me such pleasure in the summer months I had spent on the farm, so many years ago.. had now also given my children..a time of happiness when their world seemed so dark..

God is a lot like a tree.. silent and strong.. giving peace and solitude to a soul in need..

Come ye yourselves apart and rest awhile.
Weary, I know it, of the press and throng.
Wipe from your brow the sweat and dust of toil.
and in my quiet strength again be strong.

Come ye aside from all the world holds dear.
For converse which the world has never known.
Alone with Me, and with My Father here.
With Me and with my Father alone.

Come tell Me all that ye have said and done.
Your victories and failures. hopes and fears.
I know how hardly souls are wooed and won.
My choicest wreaths are always wet with tears.

Come ye and rest , the journey is too great
And ye will faint besides the way and sink
The bread of life is here for you to eat.
And here for you the wine of love to drink.

Then fresh from converse with your Lord return
And work till daylight softens into evenning
The breif hours are not lost in which ye learn
More of your Master and His rest in Heaven
auther unknown

Essence of Hope©.2006 all rights reserved

Do you ever wonder

2006-03-25T23:41:00.004-07:00

Have you ever seen a rose bud that has not been given the chance to fully bloom. and by all appearances looks dead? If you peel back the layers that are dry and crusty, you will find that the inner part is still fresh and fragrant.

I often wonder if that is what our souls are like.. The exterior part of our bodies and mind that encase the soul, is often plundered with pain, suffering.. feelings of being dried up, useless , unwanted, unloved, forgotten.. Due to the overflowing circumstances of daily life. Good or bad.. horrific, or pleasure. it all affects who we are.. in the way we think, act.. and believe.. Sometimes it feels as we are truly alone..that there is no God, that cares.. if there were, then why do we hurt so.. why are we left to fend for our selves.. why is there so much unrest.. why do bad things happen to good people.. Perhaps its centers around the fact that we "all" have 'free will" .. most of the time this seems so very unfair.. Unfair to the people that have been beaten, violated, or killed. there is always that why.. and most of the time those whys are never fully answered, if ever answered at all. Do you ever wonder if maybe when all things seem so dark and foreboding, that in truth, we are really just in the shadow of our God, and that he really is far more close to us in those times, than we with our limited minds can perceive. Do you ever wonder that perhaps that we get so caught up in what 'we' are doing or not doing, That we don't see what God is doing.. how he is really helping, even though it may seem like he isn't doing anything. Have you ever felt like you were in a padded room and no matter how loud you scream, no one hears.? Some call it the dark night of the soul. and some say, that when your in such a place, that is when God is most near. Do you ever wonder that perhaps during these times, when we feel so alone that .. its because we are like children and like children we tend to become afraid, and hide.. and perhaps we are hiding 'behind' God's throne, and if only we were peek around the corner we just might find that he is there, waiting for us.. I have heard that there is a place in the Alps. where a rose grows. its the only place where this one rose will grow.. it has no fragrance, until you pinch or crush its petals.. then it give off the most sweetest of all aroma's.. Do you ever wonder if that is what has to happen to the soul, in order for it to bloom?

Essence of Hope©.2006 all rights reserved

Garden of my soul

2006-03-19T14:51:00.001-07:00

garden of earthy delights how dim you are in the translucent rays of light springing forth, from the depths of the soul, shinning upon the garden which is nourished in love and sorrow. Into the depths of darkness, of nothingness, of void...springs forth the warmth and tenderness of rays of translucent light engulfing the soul, freeing it once again.

During this Lenten season , one begins to ask themselves.. what is this really about. Is it only about making sacrifices or force some restrictions upon ourselves. Which in the end most of us will fail at. Or is it the inner reflection.. closeness, acceptance. and the value of love we offer ? Perhaps the inner reflection of ourselves during lent is best done ,with humility and simplicity. And the quality of the love we put in all things

A few years back I ran across a poem.. don't remember it all but what i do remember has always stuck with me..

Love
survives
death and
transcendence
yet that
which I was
and that
which I am
and that
which I will become
~Boing

~Hope ©. all rights reserved.>