tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3668130040585140662024-03-18T20:52:53.016-06:00This Life is an Adventure! Views and musings of a woman of faith by Katherine Kavanagh HoffmanWe live, we grow, we learn, we change. That is the true cycle of life. Or, it should be. Join me as I explore this adventure of life, as I live out my faith in relationship with God and with others. Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-45699453078296710332018-01-14T20:58:00.000-07:002018-01-14T21:03:50.462-07:00Being Thankful<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Just two weeks into the new year and already its newness is wearing thin. We continue to deal with the same old things: the struggles, the sorrows, the difficulties of every day life in this broken world.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Don't get me wrong- I know there are good things, too. Some of us are in good relationships. We have good jobs, or lovely homes, or families that we love, who love us back. But, even if we have those things (and not everyone does), we are still faced with the truth that life is not easy in this world. Living in these difficult times can darken our thoughts, even if we believe, as I do, that God is in control and that, one day, all will be set right. Yet, we still have to live in the here and now, when things are not right. And that can be overwhelming and discouraging. But we have not been left without hope. God has given us tools to help us navigate the storms of this life. One of those tools is thankfulness.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>In I Thessalonians 5:18, Paul tells us to "give thanks in all circumstances" (NIV). I don't think he means by this that we need to feel thankful all the time, or about all the things that happen to us. Rather, this is about our attitude. We can approach life with an attitude of thankfulness, whatever is going on around us, inside of us, or in the world at large. Choosing an attitude of thankfulness will not necessarily change our feelings, but it may change the way we live and act.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>And so, as I dust off This Life is an Adventure, after a very long hiatus, I will be focusing on being thankful. There are always challenges to be faced, and I am sure that will be no different for most of us in 2018. A little more thankfulness can't hurt. </i></span><br />
<br />Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-18393350473167916042015-05-01T10:46:00.000-06:002015-05-01T10:46:10.428-06:00Alberta Election 2015<i><span style="font-size: large;">The Alberta Election 2015 is mere days away. In case you aren't familiar with it, here is Alberta's election history in a nutshell:</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;"> 1971- present Progressive Conservatives</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"> 1935-1971 Social Credit</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"> 1921-1935 United Farmers of Alberta</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"> 1905-1921 Liberals</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">We are a province of political dynasties. We are also a province of majority governments. I think it is time to consider changing that. Let's shake up the status quo, try something new, stretch ourselves a bit, and vote in a minority government. </span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Too radical? Too disturbing a thought? Certainly something different for this province. </span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">I think that a minority government could be a good thing for Alberta. For one thing, it might help the political parties to learn a new skill: cooperation. That is something that has been unnecessary in the past; majority governments feel, understandably, that they have been given a mandate to go ahead and do whatever they see fit. That can be useful but, as we have sometimes seen in Alberta, it can also get out of control. A minority government could, theoretically, help the political parties to learn to play nicely together: share their toys, take turns, listen to and hear each other out. I might be a bit on the optimistic side regarding this possibility, some might say naive. After all, they might all just as likely have tantrums, take their toys and go home. Discouraging thought. After all, cooperation and the ability to compromise are reasonable qualities to expect our politicians to cultivate. Aren't they? </span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">A minority government, formed by any of the parties in Alberta, would also send a strong message to the most recent dynasty, a message that Albertans are tired of being treated like employees instead of shareholders. We govern, by proxy, through our elected representatives. It is time that we take hold of that right and responsibility, and it is time that our government becomes aware of that truth, in no uncertain terms. </span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">So, on May 5th, let's consider making a change, and a mark in the political history of Alberta. Whatever your political views may be, get out there and let your opinion be heard at the ballot box. At the risk of sounding cliché, every vote really does count.</span></i><br />
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Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-22271020056196717022015-04-24T10:27:00.000-06:002015-04-24T10:27:18.320-06:00Violets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJHfpcvsG0pX2xpBDSfphzU1kgykBfV8IQtY5ZF5jVuvoI50C7N5uLBOMwXDyy2tJEEM1_J8lii25Xnc5vFTFAI4OaaSXFIDG2CcUPGLRjEGUu6iMsdmN_Z0w0SKXGWM_bvXHB8u5KNR1i/s1600/IMG_0470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJHfpcvsG0pX2xpBDSfphzU1kgykBfV8IQtY5ZF5jVuvoI50C7N5uLBOMwXDyy2tJEEM1_J8lii25Xnc5vFTFAI4OaaSXFIDG2CcUPGLRjEGUu6iMsdmN_Z0w0SKXGWM_bvXHB8u5KNR1i/s1600/IMG_0470.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="color: #674ea7; font-size: large;">Violets are shy flowers. They hide beneath the detritus of last year's garden and can be completely overlooked. Some years, I have missed their bloom altogether. I am always disappointed when that happens for violets, beloved and simple flowers, speak to my heart. For me, they are the true heralds of spring. </span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #674ea7; font-size: large;">This past Sunday, my neighbour Debbie and I went looking for our violets, and we found them. Thanks to an amiable wind, I suppose, they had spread from my flowerbed to hers, and as we pushed aside some dead grasses, we found these delicate purple flowers hidden beneath.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #674ea7; font-size: large;">We have violets in God's garden, too. They spread God's love, in their own quiet way, in their neighbourhoods, workplaces, schools, barely noticed, sometimes completely overlooked, even by those who benefit from their gifts of service. But when our eyes are opened before God's throne, we may be surprised at some of those who receive the heartfelt "Well done, good and faithful servant." Then, their once undetected brilliance will shine for all to see in the light of the Father's Presence. </span></i>Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-67490044586974197012015-04-05T08:18:00.000-06:002015-04-05T08:18:22.280-06:00Easter SundayPreviously posted March 22, 2013<br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Easter Sunday</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Darkness turned to light</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>A touch of hope</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> And then</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Unadulterated JOY.</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>The unthinkable has been</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Thought</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>The undoable has been </i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> done</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>The unreasonable is now</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Reality.</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Darkness turned to light</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> By truth</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>We are not imprisoned</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Any longer</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>In cells of our own making.</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>The light has broken through</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Releasing those</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> held by Darkness.</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>A new world begins.</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Hope, once scattered</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Is Now Firm</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Truth, once uncertain</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Is Now Confirmed</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> The Future, once Darkened</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Is now Filled with</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Light</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Light that will guide us</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Into a new reality-</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Through the darkness</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Into what was always</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Meant to be.</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>No more holding back</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> For we know what lies ahead.</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>No more fear of death</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> For that blight has been conquered.</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Our hope</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Our truth</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Our future</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Joy-filled with Light.</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Katherine Kavanagh Hoffman </i></b></span></div>
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Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-74196251967317566282015-04-03T08:59:00.000-06:002015-04-03T08:59:27.466-06:00Good Friday Reflections<span style="font-size: large;">First posted March 27, 2013</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i>Crucifixion</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i>The bread and cup</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> were passed</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i>Thus, the ordeal began.</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> A furtive meeting</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> A quiet garden</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> Filled with prayer and anguish</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> Sleeping men.</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> And, then</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> The sounds of rushing men</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> intent on duty.</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> A kiss</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> The strike of a sword</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> And healing.</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> Fearful men.</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> Trial</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> Denial</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> Mockery</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i>A night filled with uncertainty</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> for many</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> Though not for </i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> One.</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> He is sure of the outcome.</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> And the purpose</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> Purple robes</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> Crown of thorns</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> Cross to bear.</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i>Through the streets</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> Jeering crowds</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> A contrast to those</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> crowds victorious,</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> worshipful,</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> mere days ago.</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> And, then,</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> Desolation.</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> The pain of</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> flesh and spirit torn</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> The torment of sin,</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> though not His own</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> The agony of this labour.</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> Death brings completion.</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> "It is finished."</i></span><br /><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><i> Katherine Kavanagh Hoffman </i></span></span></div>
Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-50543063674736206182015-02-05T11:14:00.001-07:002015-02-05T11:14:35.032-07:00Wintertime Musings<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-size: large;"><i>I am not a big fan of winter these days. For a woman who has spent the last 28 years in Edmonton, Alberta, that is saying a lot. However, I can look at the bright side. It is February, a nice short winter month. We are on the other side of the winter solstice, so it is getting lighter. Longer days, shorter month- that can only mean one thing- spring really will come, and sooner than later.</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-size: large;"><i>In Edmonton, that usually means sometime in April. We cannot really count on March- it never seems to be able to decide what kind of month it wants to be. And, to be honest, even April can be quite finicky. So, while others are finishing with spring, we are usually basking in it in May. Or June.</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-size: large;"><i>I can hardly wait!</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-size: large;"><i>I wish I could embrace winter as some people I know do. Maybe I am just a coward. The winter cold here bites at my skin, all the more so because I have rosacea. I do honestly suffer after any time spent in the cold- not just because my skin gets red, but because it also gets so sore. This does not make me want to head out for a brisk morning walk, or a cross country ski venture in the River Valley.</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-size: large;"><i>For me, winter means staying in. Period. Trying to stay physically active within the confines of my home. And failing quite miserably.</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-size: large;"><i>There are things that I do embrace about winter in Edmonton. Cozying up in my comfy armchair, a vanilla chai close at hand, and a good book in my lap. Taking a snow day, watching movies on Netflix, cuddled in a warm throw on the couch in the den. And this year, I have found the long dark cold winter days much more tolerable thanks to this laptop and a desk in my office, where I am beginning to spend more and more time writing.</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-size: large;"><i>So, I salute those of you who are able to embrace the winter cold with determination and even pleasure! I really wish I could! Perhaps I do need to consider another nest for the winter, far away from all this cold. In the meantime, I will cocoon in the best way I know how. And while my body may not appreciate the long hibernation, I can at least use it as a time to get my brain into shape.</i></span><br />
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<br />Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-37022027390709999852015-01-31T11:12:00.001-07:002015-01-31T11:12:54.200-07:00New Year In Focus<span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;"><i>So, how is 2015 working out for you so far?</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;"><i>Are your resolutions still holding? Are you satisfied with the way things are going?</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;"><i>We are now at the end of January. Perhaps 2015 does not look quite as shiny as it did just a couple of weeks ago. Maybe your resolutions have already bitten the dust. It all seemed so easy on January 1st, but now we are back to the same old thing, and the same old dissatisfaction is rearing its head.</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;"><i>Could it be that we are looking in the wrong direction? So often our resolutions are focussed on things we think will make our lives happier. But maybe that isn't what it is all about. Or maybe happiness does not come from looking within, but from looking outward.</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;"><i>This world is filled with the need for hope. What if we resolved to fill that need, even in some small way? In our own backyards, there are people who could use some encouragement- those who are living with illness or loss, those who are homeless, in prison or imprisoned in dead end jobs. And beyond our own neighbourhoods, we see even greater needs. Around the world people are starving, dying in epidemics, living under the constraints of dictatorial regimes, political unrest, terrorism and war.</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;"><i>What can we do to make a difference? We may not be able to solve the world's problems, or even our neighbourhood's, but we can have a positive influence on the world around us by giving away a little bit of ourselves. Something as simple as lending an ear to someone we know, or praying for those in crisis, writing a letter concerning an injustice, or writing a cheque for a good cause, can make more of a difference than we realize.</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;"><i>So, this year I am making a new resolution, even if it is the end of January. I am going to ask God to help me see the world through His eyes, whether I am looking down the street, or across the globe. And as I look around me, I am going to ask the question- what can I do? I have no doubt that He will answer in a very concrete way. </i></span><br />
<br />Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-85093245748614060512014-12-19T11:44:00.000-07:002014-12-19T11:45:35.969-07:00Darkness and Light<i><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;">Right now, we are approaching the shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, and here in Edmonton that is pretty noticeable. On Monday, the sky was clear and blue, and looking out of my living room window, I could see the bright sun, hovering due south just above the houses across the street. It was about 12:30 PM, and I knew that the sun was as high as it would get. At this time of year, it skims across the sky quite close to the horizon, rising sleepily shortly before 9 AM and falling back into slumber a little after 4 PM- a whopping 7 hours of daylight! Of course, it doesn't feel quite that long.... the sun takes time to come up, and starts showing signs of setting as early as 3:30 so if you blink, or if you work inside all day, you can easily miss it.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;">I have lived in Edmonton, Alberta for the last 28 1/2 years, but the behaviour of the sun in this northern clime still amazes me. I know it is nothing compared to places much farther north, but compared to where I grew up (Montreal and Vancouver), it quite astounds me. I remember how strange it felt, back in my early years here, to leave for work in the dark and return home, feeling as if daylight had never happened. And, in the summer, I am still surprised by the early morning birdsongs, and the glimmer of light I can see out of my north facing window well after midnight. </span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;">So, I look forward to the winter solstice here. Not because I so enjoy the lack of light but because, as the shortest day of the year approaches, I know that each new day will be just a little bit lighter again, until the darkness of winter is banished and eventually replaced by the long days of summer. Looking forward to it, watching each day grow a little bit longer, is almost as wonderful as sitting out in the brightness of a late summer evening. This gradual change of seasons also reminds me that there are cosmic changes afoot, too. It seems to be taking a long time, but one day the spiritual darkness that so often envelops this world will also be banished by the living Light that lasts forever. (Revelation 22:5)</span></i>Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-3188611793125011222014-12-11T16:08:00.000-07:002014-12-11T16:08:51.857-07:00New Beginnings<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><i>Anne Shirley, of Green Gables fame, once said " ... isn't it nice to think that tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it yet?" (L.M. Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables) That is a philosophy I have taken to heart. I love new beginnings! I love new beginnings so much that, like Anne, I look at each day as a new start. Sure, I enjoy the obvious ones throughout the year- New Year's, September, my birthday- but there is something wonderful about opening my eyes each morning, knowing I can start fresh. </i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><i>As Christmas approaches, I am reminded of a very particular new beginning, the one we have because of Jesus. Born as a baby, lauded by angels, worshipped by shepherds, sought by wise men, God provided us with a second chance. We celebrate because God loved us enough to reach out to us in this homely and humble way, infusing the everyday with the divine. And we look ahead from the birth of a baby to a sacrifice that would restore not only our relationship with God, but all of creation to its Maker.</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><i>Why not let this Christmas season be a new beginning for you? When we turn to Jesus, we can be assured of a fresh start, not only with each new day, but each and every moment. We live a life renewed, in relationship with God, and nothing is so dark that it can turn Him away from us. He gives us a new beginning that will last forever.</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><i> "For God so loved that world that He gave His one and only Son that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. " John 3:16 NIV</i></span>Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-10601373227071739022014-10-23T11:57:00.000-06:002014-10-23T11:57:12.653-06:00United in our Sorrow- Canada in Mourning<i>A reflection on the senseless deaths of Corporal Nathan Cirillo and Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent.</i><div>
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This week, Canada is in mourning. As we seek to cope with the senseless deaths of Corporal Nathan Cirillo and Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent at the hands of militant extremists, we are brought together as Canadians. Our sadness does not defeat us, or divide us, but makes us more determined to stay true to the values that make us Canadian- things like inclusiveness, diversity, fairness, and a willingness to live and let live. We celebrate our freedoms in Canada, and this just makes us more determined to celebrate them and to protect them, if need be. Canada is not perfect- we have made many mistakes, but we are at least willing to admit those mistakes and try to make amends for them. And we will not allow terrorism to change who we are, or what we stand for. That is one of the things that, ultimately, makes us Canadian.</div>
Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-76999132138406040612013-12-17T10:18:00.000-07:002013-12-17T10:18:09.524-07:00Christmas Wishes and Christmas Dreams<i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I wish for you this Christmas:</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Awareness of the true meaning of Christmas: God reaching out to humanity, through the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus, to reconcile all of His creation to Himself and to unite us also with one another.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Awareness that you are loved and valued. God would not have reached out, if you were not.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">A desire to extend that love and value to others, those close to you and those you do not yet know.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The knowledge that people are more valuable than profit or luxury or things. The latter only have value as they are used for good. They have no value in and of themselves.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I dream of a world this Christmas:</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Where we appreciate the gifts that we have and seek to use them to improve the lives of others.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Where we see that we are a community, meant to support and help one another.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Where we are not disappointed with the content of our meals, but thankful that we have food to eat at all, and are concerned for those who don't have the luxury of disappointment.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Where we are not discontented with the size of our homes, but simply thankful for the homes we have, and are concerned for those who have no place to call home.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Where success is measured in how much we give away, rather than how much we have.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Where our first thought each morning is to ask how we can make the world just a little bit better today.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Where we are willing to live our lives, not in fear, but in the boldness that comes from knowing we are doing the right thing.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">My wish for all of us this Christmas and every day is that our first inclination would be to seek justice for those who cannot do so themselves, to comfort those who have no comfort, and to bring peace to those who live in turmoil. May our hearts and our homes be open to those who are marginalized in this world, and may our desire be to have a positive impact in our global community. May its pain be our pain, and its joy, our joy.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The birth of Jesus signalled the beginning of a new era of Peace. In that stable in Bethlehem, God began the process of reconciling all of creation once again to Him and in Him. He has brought us healing, and has given us the mission of bringing spiritual, physical and emotional healing to the world. We are a community, united by the mercy of God.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">A very Merry and Blessed Christmas to All!</span></i><br />
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<br />Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-63517223889554433372013-12-10T11:18:00.000-07:002013-12-10T11:18:05.673-07:00The Potter's Hand<br />
<i><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;"> "Yet, O LORD, you are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand." Isaiah 64:8 NIV</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;">This beautiful image of God and His People is one that I have cherished for a long time. Perhaps that is why I have taken up a new hobby this fall. I have been going to beginner pottery classes. My skills are limited and I have much to learn, but as I have had the privilege of working with the clay and watching my creations, such as they are, emerge from it, I cannot help but reflect on this age-old idea.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;">Clay can be quite challenging. Before anything can be done with it, it must be knocked down repeatedly on a surface to soften it and round out the edges. Then it must be slammed down securely onto the wheel and centred, which involves squeezing it up and pushing it down until there are no wobbles or unevenness in the clay. Once that is accomplished, it must be carefully opened up to the desired width. At this point, the clay can be lifted to form the sides of a pot. Lifting, like centring, is a finicky thing. If the wall becomes unbalanced or too thin, it will collapse, and that portion of the clay must be cut off before lifting can continue. Only when the clay is lifted properly, can it be shaped. </span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;">And this is only the beginning! Once a pot is formed, it must be air dried, trimmed, fired, glazed and then fired once more. This brings the glaze and clay to a mature state, no longer porous, and ready to be used for its intended purpose.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;"> A skilled potter, through time and practice, learns to master this meticulous process. He gets to know his clay, and simply by the touch of his hand, he can determine when the clay is centred, when and how far to lift it. With great patience, the potter works with his clay from its beginning as an unformed lump until it is shaped, trimmed and glazed, now a beautiful and useful vessel, formed and designed by a loving hand and ready to fulfill its purpose. </span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;">How similar is our journey to that of the clay! Life can be difficult, filled with struggles that we cannot understand, let alone deal with on our own. Like the clay, we can be hard to work with, loathe to take on a new form, happy to remain shapeless and useless, rather than be stretched and prodded and worked. And like the clay, we are fragile, always at risk of being destroyed. We are ever dependent upon the skilled hand of the Master Potter to see us safely through the process of growing and changing and becoming. Though we may not always perceive it, with love and patience, He forms us into beautiful and useful vessels, matured by the fires of life and the loving and firm touch of His hand.</span></i><br />
<br />
<i><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;">Many years ago, I wrote a song that goes like this:</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;">"My Jesus is the Master Potter and He's going to mould me.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;">My Jesus is the Master Potter and He'll mould me into what I should be.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;">My Jesus is the Master Potter and He's going to mould me</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;">Into Something beautiful, the way that I was meant to be.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;">He's going to make me a vessel for His use</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;">He's going to turn me into a servant of the King</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;">He's going to cleanse me inside out with loving care</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;">He's going to teach me to be an instrument of His Love." (copyright Katherine Kavanagh Hoffman)</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;">I understand a little bit more about the meaning of these words now. And I am thankful that I can depend upon the skill and patience and love of the Master Potter to bring me through this sometimes harrowing journey that we call life.</span></i><br />
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<br />Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-13892435277213484482013-12-01T14:02:00.001-07:002013-12-01T14:02:14.332-07:00Christmas Tale<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">The earth waits,</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">groaning as in travail.</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 14px;">
<i><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: #a64d79; font-size: large;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Bare threads of hope,</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">taut,</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">fragile,</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Uncertain.</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 14px;">
<i><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: #a64d79; font-size: large;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Is this the time?</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Will the hope be fulfilled</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">or shredded on the wind....</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 14px;">
<i><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: #a64d79; font-size: large;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">The heavens wait,</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">palpable anticipation.</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 14px;">
<i><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: #a64d79; font-size: large;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Fullness of time,</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">ready,</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">defined, </span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Imminent.</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 14px;">
<i><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: #a64d79; font-size: large;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Bright light,</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Heavenly songs, </span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Joy.</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 14px;">
<i><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: #a64d79; font-size: large;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Cold night,</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Shepherds watch,</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Awe.</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 14px;">
<i><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: #a64d79; font-size: large;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Stable dark,</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Straw bed,</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Baby’s cry.</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 14px;">
<i><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: #a64d79; font-size: large;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 14px;">
<i><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: #a64d79; font-size: large;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">The beginning.</span></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 14px;">
<i><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: #a64d79; font-size: large;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">by Katherine Kavanagh Hoffman</span></i></span></div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">December 1, 2013</span></i></span></div>
Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-57584655542557109692013-11-19T10:12:00.000-07:002013-11-19T10:12:09.895-07:00An Empty Nest<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: #cfe2f3; color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">My mind is flooded with memories. Two little girls playing "make believe" with their Barbies and Lego, telling jokes around the supper table, climbing up into the "tree house" in the backyard. Sleepovers, play dates, family vacations, church events, school events, music lessons, dance, the arts. Even the teen years, which entailed some very real challenges, still evoke some wonderful memories: our house full of friends, never knowing how many we would have for dinner, or who we might find sleeping on the couch when we woke up the next day! </span></i><br />
<i><span style="background-color: #cfe2f3; color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="background-color: #cfe2f3; color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">These memories fade into an even sweeter present. I now see my girls, having met the challenges of the teens, grown into women, still learning, but well on the road to maturity. Although they will always be my babies, they are also my friends.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="background-color: #cfe2f3; color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="background-color: #cfe2f3; color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">And now, as of 21 days ago, my husband and I are empty nesters. Our oldest daughter has been away from home for a number of years, but now the "baby" of the family has flown the nest!</span></i><br />
<i><span style="background-color: #cfe2f3; color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="background-color: #cfe2f3; color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I admit to mixed emotions.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="background-color: #cfe2f3; color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="background-color: #cfe2f3; color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The house is definitely emptier, and that is a strange feeling. It does make me sad, in a way. As a "stay-at-home" Mom, I could say that my lifework has walked out the door! Yet, I also feel a sense of satisfaction. The work of raising my girls (although done long before our youngest left) is complete. And so the door closes gently. </span></i><br />
<i><span style="background-color: #cfe2f3; color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="background-color: #cfe2f3; color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">We are now in a new stage of life. An ending has occurred, but a beginning takes its place. I firmly believe in enjoying every stage of life, and so I am happy and excited to be starting anew. For every stage brings new opportunities and new experiences. This is true for my youngest, out on her own for the first time, but it is also true for me, and for my husband, and for our home. I do not know what awaits us during this new stage, but I know the One who holds us in His Hands, and so I wait and prepare and plan, thankful for this new adventure! I intend on taking hold of it firmly with both hands!</span></i><br />
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<br />Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-5143588559108652072013-04-13T13:18:00.000-06:002013-04-13T13:18:59.921-06:00<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>I know that Truth is stronger still</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><u>Strongest</u></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> I hold on to that truth</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> in the midst of lies</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>Chaos</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> threatens to undermine</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> to shake my confidence</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>But</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> I know that Truth is stronger still</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> <u>Strongest.</u></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><u><br /></u></i></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>We walk through this world of chaos</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> Overwhelmed</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> Torn by demands</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> and expectations</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> Wooed by half-truths</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> and promises</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> That corrupt the Truth</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> and seek to show it</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> Inane</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>But</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> I know that Truth is stronger still</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> <u>Strongest</u>.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> And no matter what I hear</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> Well-cushioned words</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> And accusations</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> That seek to undermine</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> my confidence</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> that encourage me to adapt</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> the Truth</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> to my own needs and</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> sensibilities</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>I know that Truth is stronger still</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> <u>Strongest</u></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><u><br /></u></i></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> And I will cling to that</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i> Truth.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>Katherine Kavanagh Hoffman </i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>written March 8, 2008</i></span>Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-22642098328529595632013-03-29T09:06:00.001-06:002013-03-29T09:06:34.861-06:00Crucifixion<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i>Crucifixion</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i>The bread and cup</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> were passed</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i>Thus, the ordeal began.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> A furtive meeting</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> A quiet garden</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> Filled with prayer and anguish</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> Sleeping men.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> And, then</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> The sounds of rushing men</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> intent on duty.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> A kiss</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> The strike of a sword</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> And healing.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> Fearful men.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> Trial</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> Denial</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> Mockery</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i>A night filled with uncertainty</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> for many</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> Though not for </i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> One.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> He is sure of the outcome.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> And the purpose</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> Purple robes</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> Crown of thorns</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> Cross to bear.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i>Through the streets</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> Jeering crowds</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> A contrast to those</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> crowds victorious,</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> worshipful,</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> mere days ago.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> And, then,</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> Desolation.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> The pain of</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> flesh and spirit torn</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> The torment of sin,</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> though not His own</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> The agony of this labour.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> Death brings completion.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> "It is finished."</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i> Katherine Kavanagh Hoffman March 27, 2013</i></span></span>Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-20704674933853092642013-03-22T21:23:00.001-06:002013-03-22T21:23:42.253-06:00Easter Trilogy<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Easter Trilogy</i></b></span><div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>1. Palm Sunday</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Welcomed as a king.</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Royal ride through the gates</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Cheering and Homage</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> fron the crowd.</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>"Forgive them Father</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> For they know not what they do"</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Cloaks and palm branches</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Spread on the road</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> In welcome</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> In reverence.</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>"...save yourself! Come down</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> from the cross, if you are the Son of God!"</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Hope and Excitement</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>For the Son of David-</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>The One who comes in God's name</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>The One who will save.</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>"Surely he was the Son of God!"</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>2. Good Friday</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Focus</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> on the Darkness of the day-</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> No glimmer of the Light to come</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Only sorrow.</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> And pain.</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> And despair.</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>How could it be?</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>How could this happen?</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> He is the one....</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> He was the one....</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> And yet</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> He hangs now from that tree-</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> One among others-</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Stripped and Beaten</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> </i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Barely with us anymore.</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Soon- He will be gone.</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> How can this be?</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> How can this happen?</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>What of the kingdom</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> </i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> He has promised?</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>What of the miracles</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> He did?</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>How could He die?</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> He seemed so much more-</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Was He only a man?</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> The Darkness of the Day</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Despair</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Uncertainly</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> No glimmer of the Light to come</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Only women crying</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> at his feet</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> While mockers scoff</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> and Disciples scatter.</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Lost</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> </i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> No direction</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> No focus</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> No assurance.</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> No tomorrow.</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> </i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Only the Darkness</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> of the Day.</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>3. Easter Sunday</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Darkness turned to light</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>A touch of hope</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> And then</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Unadulterated JOY.</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>The unthinkable has been</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Thought</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>The undoable has been </i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> done</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>The unreasonable is now</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Reality.</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Darkness turned to light</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> By truth</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>We are not imprisoned</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Any longer</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>In cells of our own making.</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>The light has broken through</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Releasing those</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> held by Darkness.</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>A new world begins.</i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Hope, once scattered</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Is Now Confirmed</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Is now Filled with</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Light</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Into a new reality-</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Through the darkness</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Into what was always</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Meant to be.</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>No more holding back</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> For that blight has been conquered.</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Our hope</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Our truth</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Our future</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Joy-filled with Light.</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> Katherine Kavanagh Hoffman </i></b></span></div>
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Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-5264628478985036692012-10-08T11:00:00.000-06:002012-10-08T11:00:10.308-06:00I am Thankful<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><b><i> It is Thanksgiving Day here in Canada, a day for celebration and reflection. Like many of my fellow Canadians, I cannot help but think of the blessings of friends and family, shelter and provisions, health and happiness. Still, today, I think I would like to be a bit more specific in my thanks.</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><b><i> I am thankful for quiet mornings and active days, sitting in front of a fire on a crisp night under a starry sky, dinners on the deck in the summer, a decaf cappuccino or latte with a friend. </i></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><b><i> I am thankful for the feel of a good book in my hands and the time to read it, an afternoon in my favourite green chair in the world of that book, a classic movie that brings me to tears or makes me laugh.</i></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><b><i> I am thankful for music that leaves an ache within me, lyrics that speak truth, stories that never grow old, art in all its forms that adds colour and hope and encouragement to life.</i></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><b><i> I am thankful for the sound of birds in my backyard, the howl of a wolf, the purring of a cat.</i></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><b><i> I am thankful for the pressure of my dog Tara's head on my feet while I sleep.</i></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><b><i> I am thankful for hot summer days, gentle rains, the way the world looks after a new-fallen snow. I am thankful for Kent's garden and its changing appearance through the seasons.</i></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><b><i> I am thankful for a crisp white wine, a gluten free fondue, something hot and comforting on a cold day.</i></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><b><i> I am thankful for time spent just with my grown up girls, and for the opportunity of getting to know and love their chosen partners in life.</i></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><b><i> I am thankful for time spent with Kent, my husband and chosen partner in life, enjoying the little things that come our way.</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><b><i> And most of all, I am thankful for the never-changing mercy and love of God and His Truth, and the way it has forever changed my life.</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><b><i>Happy Thanksgiving Day, Canada! May today be a reminder to us to be thankful all year long.</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span>Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-18566742817592933192012-10-05T11:09:00.000-06:002012-10-05T11:09:33.248-06:00Frost<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;"><b><i> The ground has been covered in frost the last two mornings here in Edmonton and I am reminded that our short summer and even shorter autumn is almost at an end. I have lived here now for more than thirty years in total, 26 in a row last count, but I still have not gotten used to the fact that winter is quite selfish here, hoarding as much of spring and autumn as it can get away with, leaving those seasons to fight it out with summer as best they can. </i></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;"><b><i> I remember long autumns growing up in Montreal, sweater weather for several months, it seemed, until the snows took over. Sometimes there is no autumn here to speak of; we run from summer straight into winter, leaves blown or frozen off the trees before we even have time to consider their passing. This year, at least, we have enjoyed a beautiful September and I try to remember that, as I watch the quickly passing season. Autumn may not end until December on the calendar, but it says goodbye to Alberta long before that. </i></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;"><b><i> In spite of the frost, I am trying very hard right now to enjoy each of these days that still allow me to tramp around in shoes and a light coat, with the leaves still turning colour on the trees and the grass still green. One morning, perhaps sooner than later, I will wake up not to frost but to a blanket of new fallen snow. I confess, I do not look forward to that....</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span>Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-38398324499458985442012-09-25T08:46:00.000-06:002012-09-25T08:46:53.850-06:00A Perfect Peach Morning<span style="color: orange; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: yellow;"><b><i>What makes you smile? For me, Monday morning, it was a peach. A perfect peach I had bought at the Farmer's Market on Saturday. I cut it up onto my cereal and anticipated an epicurean delight! I was not disappointed.</i></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: yellow;"><b><i>Just as the "little things" can make life a bit tougher, so can they sometimes brighten it up and make life just a little bit more palatable. That perfect peach certainly brightened up my morning and my day, for that matter. Even a little moment of peace (or peach??) and pleasure can make a difference.</i></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: yellow;"><b><i>So, what makes you smile? A perfect peach, the sound of birds singing in your backyard, the colour of the leaves in autumn? Allow yourself to take a moment and just enjoy that one little thing!</i></b></span></span>Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-45499357125891226372012-09-22T20:22:00.000-06:002012-09-22T20:30:19.246-06:00A Hot Sunny September Saturday!<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i> <span style="font-size: large;"> A hot sunny September Saturday is a rarity in Edmonton, Alberta and must, therefore, not be taken lightly. Today was such a day, and I knew that if I ignored it, I would just as surely live to regret it! What to do, then, on such a day? In Vancouver, I would have been at Granville Island or at Kits Beach; in Montreal, Old Montreal would have beckoned. In Edmonton, it was Whyte Ave. and the Old Strathcona Farmer's Market that called my name, and I willingly answered!</span></i></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i> I am charmed by this area of my northern city. I love the feel of the Market itself and the atmosphere along Whyte Ave. Wandering through the shops and the Market, I find myself relaxing, enjoying the experience of walking, examining and, occasionally, purchasing goods. It makes my life feel a bit simpler than it really is and I relish the illusion, at least for a time. </i></b></span></div>
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Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-62231968639252645782012-09-20T23:00:00.002-06:002012-09-20T23:00:42.177-06:00I'm Back!<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>The implication of those words are likely lost on anyone reading this blog, but for me they are words of power, encouragement and determination! I have not really gone anywhere, no self-imposed exile or prolonged vacation, but I have certainly removed myself to some extent from some of the dreams and plans I made reference to in earlier blogs. Like so many of us, I was caught in the web of life, dealing with issues and problems in my day to day journey, not all of my own making. But, I have now decided it is time to reclaim that which is mine.</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>As a result, I am beginning again. Not only writing in this blog, but seizing the adventure of living once more, whatever may come, for life is, indeed, an adventure, and that continues through times of rest and times of furious activity, times of fulfillment and times of regret. My life has been a roller coaster for as long as I can remember, but I know I am not alone in that experience. The question is not one of how to slow things down (although that would be nice!) but one of how to avoid falling off as we round the corners and brave the loops and fear-evoking hills. I am determined to take every day as it comes, and to take out of every day whatever I can. A part of me feels that there is no point, that it is too late to start once more, but I refuse to believe that is really the case. </i></span></div>
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<i style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> It is never too late to learn. Isn't that really the biggest adventure of all? </i></div>
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Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com0Edmonton, AB, Canada53.544389 -113.490926753.242470000000004 -114.1226407 53.846308 -112.8592127tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-57185433436644482402010-06-07T21:37:00.000-06:002012-09-20T22:02:20.908-06:00Taking Time<em><span style="color: #3366ff;">I am writing to the sound of a steady rain, enjoying the fact that I can allow myself this time to indulge in something that I really want to do. Perhaps that is one of the lessons that I have learned over the years. It is just as healthy to take some time for oneself as it is to get things done that are calling for attention. I have learned that most things will wait and few things are as urgent as I once thought they were. As a stay-at-home Mom, I am not sure that I gave much attention to my own needs or desires. There were always so many things to do that I rarely gave myself much thought. I think that was a mistake. No, I don't regret the time I spent doing things for and with my girls, or all the volunteer work I did at their schools and at church but, looking back, I think it would have been beneficial for me to have used some of my time for me. How I would have managed it is hard to say, but we all need to make time for the important things in our lives, and that certainly qualifies as something important.</span></em>Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-47094690907102856042010-03-17T14:30:00.000-06:002010-03-17T14:30:01.538-06:00PrioritiesI would like to say, at this stage of my life, that I am developing new priorities. In a sense that is true and yet looking through my old journals from twenty years ago and more, I see that some of my priorities have not changed at all; some things are timeless, important no matter at what stage of life we find ourselves. A recurring theme for me is relationships: relationships with God, my family, my friends. Another one is taking good care of my body: eating right, exercising, taking care of my appearance. I struggle with this one. Although I can see that I have grown over the years in regards to relationships, I see very little progress in this area. |Yet, I suppose this could still be classified in the realm of relationships, for the way I treat this body of mine says a lot about my relationship with myself. It speaks of where self-care fits in with my priorities and this gives me cause for reflection. I know that I do not care for myself in the way that I should, even though I do have some health issues which should put this issue at the front and centre. Funny how easy it is to focus on others and how easy it is to forget about ourselves. When Jesus said that we should love our neighbours as we love ourselves, the implication was that we already do love ourselves. It is easy to gloss over that second phrase.Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366813004058514066.post-13085247500198435562010-02-09T13:03:00.000-07:002010-02-09T13:15:16.286-07:00Best Laid PlansEven at this time of relative freedom, I find that life does get in the way of my plans; schedules are interrupted by anything from illness to last minute requests. I suppose that is what life is really about-not so much what we have planned, but the interruptions themselves. After all, life is really a series of interruptions, whether self-imposed or imposed by others. I suspect that many of us would use our time (at least some of it) differently than we do, but if we can not learn how to appreciate the way that it is being used, rather than how we would like to be using it, we will miss out on a great part of our lives. We can plan all we like, but the only plan we really need is to learn how to live, to appreciate the moment (or at least learn from it) and to allow each moment to bring us into another. When it comes right down to it, the important thing is what we are doing now. Past is past and the future is unknown (sometimes non-existent) and so to live as if past and future are the only periods of consequence is to miss out on this gift called life.Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06409125614205591514noreply@blogger.com0