Posts
When it comes to being an artist
I don't know where to begin
But I can rhyme anytime
Just hand me a pencil or pen
Monday, July 11, 2011
Manners - Etiquette - Emily Post - Ugh!
If I just didn't have to eat when company came around
If I could eat in private - miss those banquets in our town
My food would taste much better, my drink would be much wetter
And I wouldn't start to choking when the food was passing down!
If I could eat all by myself I wouldn't have to know
How to get the lobster from it's shell, or hold my knife just so -
It really wouldn't matter how I cleaned up my platter
No one else would ever-ever know!
If there were no one else but me each time that dinner came
I'd do exactly as I pleased and for supper do the same
I could chomp my carrots loudly, slurp my soup up proudly
And NO ONE ever, ever could complain!
-Orvetta
P.S. I had to teach a lesson on "Table manners" in my MIA lesson so I began it with this poem.
If I could eat in private - miss those banquets in our town
My food would taste much better, my drink would be much wetter
And I wouldn't start to choking when the food was passing down!
If I could eat all by myself I wouldn't have to know
How to get the lobster from it's shell, or hold my knife just so -
It really wouldn't matter how I cleaned up my platter
No one else would ever-ever know!
If there were no one else but me each time that dinner came
I'd do exactly as I pleased and for supper do the same
I could chomp my carrots loudly, slurp my soup up proudly
And NO ONE ever, ever could complain!
-Orvetta
P.S. I had to teach a lesson on "Table manners" in my MIA lesson so I began it with this poem.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
how to order personal copies of orvetta's book
Orvetta's book, Pages Of Life, is now officially available for purchase online. To purchase your own personal copies, simply visit the following link:
http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/1556816
You can preview a small selection of page spreads via the above link as well.
Stats about the book:
Hardcover
Full color images
440 pages
160+ writings by Orvetta
1100+ high-quality images
Organized into nine "chapters of life"
Size: standard portrait (8x10)
Enjoy, everyone!
http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/1556816
You can preview a small selection of page spreads via the above link as well.
Stats about the book:
Hardcover
Full color images
440 pages
160+ writings by Orvetta
1100+ high-quality images
Organized into nine "chapters of life"
Size: standard portrait (8x10)
A few sneak peeks:
Front cover:
A glimpse into some of my favorite page spreads:
Enjoy, everyone!
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Coming Soon To A Bookstore Near You . . .
. . . An online bookstore that is. :)
Just wanted to let everyone know that personal copies of Orvetta's book, "Pages of Life," will be available very soon! After extensive proofreading, it's just about ready.
Check back in the next couple of weeks for purchasing instructions.
Just wanted to let everyone know that personal copies of Orvetta's book, "Pages of Life," will be available very soon! After extensive proofreading, it's just about ready.
Check back in the next couple of weeks for purchasing instructions.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Grandma Got The Book Last Night!
Just wanted to announce that I presented Grandma with her book last night. What a great experience. She of course knew that I had been working on it, but didn't know that it was even close to being finished. She loved it!
The copy of the book she has is just the first draft, and once it is proofread and any errors are corrected, the final draft will be made available to anyone who would like a copy. The purchasing instructions will be on this blog.
So, for our big family reunion next weekend, be sure to be on the lookout for the book if you want a sneak peek! You'll love it!
The stats:
The quality is fantastic, and I can't wait for everyone to see it next week.
I won't post many photos now, because I want everyone to see it in person first, but here are just a couple really quick:
Just before Grandma received her surprise:
Right after opening it. She was so nervous when I handed her a package and was shaking while opening it. Yep, once she had the package in her hand, she knew what it was and was too excited!
It was such a great experience last night (Steve, Melanie, Mary, & Melissa all went down). I knew Grandma would be excited, but I didn't know how much. What I had anticipated was that she would glance through some of the pages to get an idea of what had been done. But, what made me feel really good is that she took the time to go through every single page of the book (440 pages in all!) and she had comments to make about every page. And although it took quite a bit of time for her to go through each and every page, I will say this - I wouldn't have had it any other way. She was especially excited when she got to the "heritage" chapter and saw photos of her childhood - photos she had forgotten she'd ever had. It was great to see the memories come flooding back for her. And when seeing all the photos of James in the book, she paused and said multiple times, "My goodness, he looks so real there."
We video-taped a lot of last night, and sometime soon we'll post her receiving the book on video. It was hilarious.
Working on the book and putting in the hours to finish it has been an interesting process. I need some time to think about what I really want to share on the oh-so-public blog, but I will say that I had help beyond this world throughout this process. I know it was a project that needed to happen, and I know that divine help in several ways came during my time working on the book. Like I said, I need to think about what I really want to share on the blog, but I mostly want everyone to know that there was more interest than just ours here in completing this book, and I was guided throughout the process.
Doing this for Grandma and getting to know her on an entirely different level - knowing her whole life, not just her life since I've been in it - has been the privilege of a lifetime.
I love you, Grandma! My famous, published, Grandma!
The copy of the book she has is just the first draft, and once it is proofread and any errors are corrected, the final draft will be made available to anyone who would like a copy. The purchasing instructions will be on this blog.
So, for our big family reunion next weekend, be sure to be on the lookout for the book if you want a sneak peek! You'll love it!
The stats:
- 160+ writings by Orvetta
- 1100+ images (even some up to 110+ years old)
- 440 pages
- Hardcover
- Book is graphically designed and compiled by Melissa Nickle
The quality is fantastic, and I can't wait for everyone to see it next week.
I won't post many photos now, because I want everyone to see it in person first, but here are just a couple really quick:
Just before Grandma received her surprise:
Right after opening it. She was so nervous when I handed her a package and was shaking while opening it. Yep, once she had the package in her hand, she knew what it was and was too excited!
It was such a great experience last night (Steve, Melanie, Mary, & Melissa all went down). I knew Grandma would be excited, but I didn't know how much. What I had anticipated was that she would glance through some of the pages to get an idea of what had been done. But, what made me feel really good is that she took the time to go through every single page of the book (440 pages in all!) and she had comments to make about every page. And although it took quite a bit of time for her to go through each and every page, I will say this - I wouldn't have had it any other way. She was especially excited when she got to the "heritage" chapter and saw photos of her childhood - photos she had forgotten she'd ever had. It was great to see the memories come flooding back for her. And when seeing all the photos of James in the book, she paused and said multiple times, "My goodness, he looks so real there."
We video-taped a lot of last night, and sometime soon we'll post her receiving the book on video. It was hilarious.
Working on the book and putting in the hours to finish it has been an interesting process. I need some time to think about what I really want to share on the oh-so-public blog, but I will say that I had help beyond this world throughout this process. I know it was a project that needed to happen, and I know that divine help in several ways came during my time working on the book. Like I said, I need to think about what I really want to share on the blog, but I mostly want everyone to know that there was more interest than just ours here in completing this book, and I was guided throughout the process.
Doing this for Grandma and getting to know her on an entirely different level - knowing her whole life, not just her life since I've been in it - has been the privilege of a lifetime.
I love you, Grandma! My famous, published, Grandma!
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Contentment, By The Farmers Wife
I watched the closing day descend, the amber sunset glowing
The spacious sky held birds in flight, I heard the cattle lowing
My eyes beheld the fields of grain spread out as far as eye could see
The cooling shadows softly fell encircled by majestic tree
And peace spread o'er my valley as I felt the day depart
The quietness of evening placed thoughts within my heart
Dear Lord, Oh let me thank thee - for all of this that's mine
The sweet contentment that I feel and for Your love divine
A husband here beside me, my cup, it runneth o'er
A baby in my arms to love and still Thou givest more
Oh tell me, what is it Thou would have me do?
I know I must repay for all these joys and blessings that are mine today!
And as I paused and wondered, the words came strong and true
Just spread your love to others - as I have given you!
The spacious sky held birds in flight, I heard the cattle lowing
My eyes beheld the fields of grain spread out as far as eye could see
The cooling shadows softly fell encircled by majestic tree
And peace spread o'er my valley as I felt the day depart
The quietness of evening placed thoughts within my heart
Dear Lord, Oh let me thank thee - for all of this that's mine
The sweet contentment that I feel and for Your love divine
A husband here beside me, my cup, it runneth o'er
A baby in my arms to love and still Thou givest more
Oh tell me, what is it Thou would have me do?
I know I must repay for all these joys and blessings that are mine today!
And as I paused and wondered, the words came strong and true
Just spread your love to others - as I have given you!
Let's Laugh (The Whole Truth)
Our church supper was over and I was asked to lead the big group in some fun, action sing-alongs. We were all enthusiastically enjoying ourselves. I couldn't help but notice the very back of the room where the oldsters were congregated, striving to join in and be as limber as the rest of us. Desiring to acknowledge and praise them for their efforts I said as my baton stopped, "Very good, very good. I especially want to thank you seniors for your great efforts - and I could hear some creaking bones in the rear end."
P.S. I was the first on to head home after the closing prayer.
(the whole truth)
My husband and I were heading for the city one early snowy morning, leaving our little country town in sweet slumber. Suddenly we found ourselves gliding uncontrollably into the steep barrow pit. We were wedged in, no visible help in sight. My husband, the driver, wanting no negative response from me, tossed me the morning paper. With his square jaw set he said,"Read and relax until help comes." By habit my eyes fell first on "Today's Chuckle" which read, "It takes a lot of nuts to hold a car together but only one to tear it apart!!!"
(the whole truth)
Oh, I've got to tell one more about my husband. We were driving to Texas and we found ourselves in eerie spaciousness - no mountains, no rivers, no stream, no moon, and which direction were we driving? I ventured we were driving East. He said we definitely were not. I then remembered we had installed a compass on the dashboard before our long trip. I peeked at it. We were going East! I said, calmly and sweetly, "Look at the compass." He looked, started shaking it emphatically, and said, "The darn thing's broken!"
My newly married daughter, the perfectionist, called me on the phone wanting my homemade turkey dressing recipe. I described in detail, but in talking about crumbling the dry slices of bread up she had to know exactly what size of crumbs. I made several attempts, but she needed it more precise. Not wanting to, but I whispered quietly, "Like when we partake of the sacrament." She next said, "But Mom, are you talking about your ward or mine?"
May 6, 2010
P.S. I was the first on to head home after the closing prayer.
(the whole truth)
My husband and I were heading for the city one early snowy morning, leaving our little country town in sweet slumber. Suddenly we found ourselves gliding uncontrollably into the steep barrow pit. We were wedged in, no visible help in sight. My husband, the driver, wanting no negative response from me, tossed me the morning paper. With his square jaw set he said,"Read and relax until help comes." By habit my eyes fell first on "Today's Chuckle" which read, "It takes a lot of nuts to hold a car together but only one to tear it apart!!!"
(the whole truth)
Oh, I've got to tell one more about my husband. We were driving to Texas and we found ourselves in eerie spaciousness - no mountains, no rivers, no stream, no moon, and which direction were we driving? I ventured we were driving East. He said we definitely were not. I then remembered we had installed a compass on the dashboard before our long trip. I peeked at it. We were going East! I said, calmly and sweetly, "Look at the compass." He looked, started shaking it emphatically, and said, "The darn thing's broken!"
My newly married daughter, the perfectionist, called me on the phone wanting my homemade turkey dressing recipe. I described in detail, but in talking about crumbling the dry slices of bread up she had to know exactly what size of crumbs. I made several attempts, but she needed it more precise. Not wanting to, but I whispered quietly, "Like when we partake of the sacrament." She next said, "But Mom, are you talking about your ward or mine?"
May 6, 2010
Laughter & Teardrops
Those precious memories of my little grandchildren...
My joy My Frankincense My Myrrh
The big family get together had arrived. The back lawn held a heap of carrots from the garden, gathered by the ambitious little ones. Glancing out I was startled by the tiny ones chopping tops off with my sharp kitchen knives. Eight year old Aubree just then stepped to my drawer for more. I said, "Oh Obee, please gather the knives from the little ones and lets set an age - just tell them just eight year olds and older are to cut the tops off. " I suddenly hear her voice ring out, "Hold it, hold it. The only ones who get to cut the tops off the carrots are those who have been baptized!" (Laughter)
Oh yes, now I'm remembering Darrin's baptism day. We were in College Station, Texas. The baptism was over and we were heading home. Dear little Darrin was so full of joy. He said, "Wasn't that a special day? Me and my friends all in white, our dads in white, the water in front of us just clear and pretty, everybody around us. And there's only one thing that could have made it better - if somebody could have just been playing soft music on the piano - oh, something like - (and he started to softly sing), "There's a little white duck floating on the water, a little white duck doing what he otter." (Laughter)
And there was that day I was driving down to Delta with my car full of the little grandkids from Orem. As we got to the little country town of Leamington I stopped behind the big yellow school bus awaiting three little children to exit. They were a little shabby looking, one in a well worn oversized coat. I grabbed for a teaching moment saying, "Look at these little children not dressed in the best but we always treat them as nice as any others, don't we? Look at their little house and see on the top - they don't even have an antenna on the roof because they don't have a TV in their home." Zander spoke up immediately, "Grandma, remember where this house is. We have two TVs in our home. We don't need two - we sure don't need two! We'll bring one here." (Teardrops)
Oh dear - now they have divided the ward boundaries again and this time my little six year old Kelly across the street will go to another ward. His mom and dad busy, involved and etc. just didn't get to church at all on a regular basis, but dear gray-haired Lilac Holman stopped and picked him up each Sunday. After months had passed I realized I should ask Kelly if he wanted to come to my ward with me. He said, "Well, Grandma, I'm not sure I had better because over there they said we have the only true church!" (Teardrops)
Oh yes, and there was the time when little three year old Brandon heard the news from his mother that she had been holding back for some time. She said with sweet, precious feelings in her heart, "Brandon, I've got something exciting to tell you. In about three months, we will be getting you a new little sister! Isn't that going to be exciting?" Brandon said, "Well, I don't know - I'd sooner have a little monkey!" (Laughter) And I am remembering now when dear little Kimberly was born in Salt Lake and James and I were driving home from seeing her. Little Brandon was with us - he was an excited and astonished little boy. And I am also remembering Brandon looked out the rear window and said, "Oh, oh Grandpa, trouble! Trouble! Trouble!" (James never did learn to slow down - he's paid his share). (Teardrops - teardrops)
Now I am remembering little Kaydn being dropped off at my home so many mornings with Joan teaching school. How Sam, so confined to his walker and occasional wheelchair, would look forward to Kaydn brightening his day. And always as Kaydn was picked up to go home he and Sam had the same goodbye of, "See ya' later alligator," - "After while crocodile." I am remembering the morning Joan called and asked if I could hurry there and get Kaydn to kindergarten as he'd missed the bus - she had no car. I was dashing out the door as my phone rang again. I answered - it was the hospital gently letting me know Sam had just passed away! (Four days in the hospital). I just drove straight to get Kaydn to school and released the news to Joan, and Kaydn said, "I guess I can't say, 'After while crocodile' anymore." (Teardrops - teardrops - overflowing teardrops)
There is no end to the memories tucked deep in my heart.
(Maybe someday I'll write a book).
Grandma N. G.
May 6, 2010
My joy My Frankincense My Myrrh
The big family get together had arrived. The back lawn held a heap of carrots from the garden, gathered by the ambitious little ones. Glancing out I was startled by the tiny ones chopping tops off with my sharp kitchen knives. Eight year old Aubree just then stepped to my drawer for more. I said, "Oh Obee, please gather the knives from the little ones and lets set an age - just tell them just eight year olds and older are to cut the tops off. " I suddenly hear her voice ring out, "Hold it, hold it. The only ones who get to cut the tops off the carrots are those who have been baptized!" (Laughter)
Oh yes, now I'm remembering Darrin's baptism day. We were in College Station, Texas. The baptism was over and we were heading home. Dear little Darrin was so full of joy. He said, "Wasn't that a special day? Me and my friends all in white, our dads in white, the water in front of us just clear and pretty, everybody around us. And there's only one thing that could have made it better - if somebody could have just been playing soft music on the piano - oh, something like - (and he started to softly sing), "There's a little white duck floating on the water, a little white duck doing what he otter." (Laughter)
And there was that day I was driving down to Delta with my car full of the little grandkids from Orem. As we got to the little country town of Leamington I stopped behind the big yellow school bus awaiting three little children to exit. They were a little shabby looking, one in a well worn oversized coat. I grabbed for a teaching moment saying, "Look at these little children not dressed in the best but we always treat them as nice as any others, don't we? Look at their little house and see on the top - they don't even have an antenna on the roof because they don't have a TV in their home." Zander spoke up immediately, "Grandma, remember where this house is. We have two TVs in our home. We don't need two - we sure don't need two! We'll bring one here." (Teardrops)
Oh dear - now they have divided the ward boundaries again and this time my little six year old Kelly across the street will go to another ward. His mom and dad busy, involved and etc. just didn't get to church at all on a regular basis, but dear gray-haired Lilac Holman stopped and picked him up each Sunday. After months had passed I realized I should ask Kelly if he wanted to come to my ward with me. He said, "Well, Grandma, I'm not sure I had better because over there they said we have the only true church!" (Teardrops)
Oh yes, and there was the time when little three year old Brandon heard the news from his mother that she had been holding back for some time. She said with sweet, precious feelings in her heart, "Brandon, I've got something exciting to tell you. In about three months, we will be getting you a new little sister! Isn't that going to be exciting?" Brandon said, "Well, I don't know - I'd sooner have a little monkey!" (Laughter) And I am remembering now when dear little Kimberly was born in Salt Lake and James and I were driving home from seeing her. Little Brandon was with us - he was an excited and astonished little boy. And I am also remembering Brandon looked out the rear window and said, "Oh, oh Grandpa, trouble! Trouble! Trouble!" (James never did learn to slow down - he's paid his share). (Teardrops - teardrops)
Now I am remembering little Kaydn being dropped off at my home so many mornings with Joan teaching school. How Sam, so confined to his walker and occasional wheelchair, would look forward to Kaydn brightening his day. And always as Kaydn was picked up to go home he and Sam had the same goodbye of, "See ya' later alligator," - "After while crocodile." I am remembering the morning Joan called and asked if I could hurry there and get Kaydn to kindergarten as he'd missed the bus - she had no car. I was dashing out the door as my phone rang again. I answered - it was the hospital gently letting me know Sam had just passed away! (Four days in the hospital). I just drove straight to get Kaydn to school and released the news to Joan, and Kaydn said, "I guess I can't say, 'After while crocodile' anymore." (Teardrops - teardrops - overflowing teardrops)
There is no end to the memories tucked deep in my heart.
(Maybe someday I'll write a book).
Grandma N. G.
May 6, 2010
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Life Is Good!
And may we know as we continue and turn the pages of life that life is good!
And no matter how many heartaches come our way, they will never, never outweigh the good things that surround us day by day.
And no matter how many heartaches come our way, they will never, never outweigh the good things that surround us day by day.
Family Togetherness
As each page is turned
A memory comes through
A chuckle, sweet moments -
A tear drop or two.
We've blown birthday candles
Kept our family together -
Motorcycle adventures
No matter the weather.
There are ball games and spring break
To boat at the "Res"
Those Blue Notes performers
Where Mom's still saying, "Yes."
These pages are full
Of achievements galore
We see red hats and red robes
Appear through the door.
And it's hard to believe
These school days are through!!
And here's where we all
Shed more tear drops than two!
And then, when the month of May comes to its close
Oh - what memories are ours as we fill our hearts
Then cover our loved ones
With our thoughts and our flowers.
Oh yes, surgeries and shoe boots
And crutches we'll see
There's been good times and bad times
For you and for me.
And we've gathered together
Bowed reverently in prayer
As our loved ones have left us
To be in His care.
We know that God gives
And He taketh away
Let's give thanks for His goodness
And acknowledge His way!
Our three days at Fish Lake
Our highlight of joys
From silver-haired Grandma
To those vigorous boys!
Oh - the strains of that music
Made her turn back to "Young"
As she got up and waltzed
Around with her son!
So you'll find Family Togetherness
Links all the pages
The most precious gift
Throughout all the ages!
Much love,
Mom
(Grandma)
August 24, 2005
A memory comes through
A chuckle, sweet moments -
A tear drop or two.
We've blown birthday candles
Kept our family together -
Motorcycle adventures
No matter the weather.
There are ball games and spring break
To boat at the "Res"
Those Blue Notes performers
Where Mom's still saying, "Yes."
These pages are full
Of achievements galore
We see red hats and red robes
Appear through the door.
And it's hard to believe
These school days are through!!
And here's where we all
Shed more tear drops than two!
And then, when the month of May comes to its close
Oh - what memories are ours as we fill our hearts
Then cover our loved ones
With our thoughts and our flowers.
Oh yes, surgeries and shoe boots
And crutches we'll see
There's been good times and bad times
For you and for me.
And we've gathered together
Bowed reverently in prayer
As our loved ones have left us
To be in His care.
We know that God gives
And He taketh away
Let's give thanks for His goodness
And acknowledge His way!
Our three days at Fish Lake
Our highlight of joys
From silver-haired Grandma
To those vigorous boys!
Oh - the strains of that music
Made her turn back to "Young"
As she got up and waltzed
Around with her son!
So you'll find Family Togetherness
Links all the pages
The most precious gift
Throughout all the ages!
Much love,
Mom
(Grandma)
August 24, 2005
A Lot To Say!
You'll see I'm not fancy in any way -
But I cover each page with a lot to say!
And my lines may be crooked
There's no accurate measures
I'm too engulfed to boast of my treasures!
Love,
Mom
Grandma
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
August 21, 2005
But I cover each page with a lot to say!
And my lines may be crooked
There's no accurate measures
I'm too engulfed to boast of my treasures!
Love,
Mom
Grandma
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
August 21, 2005
Memory Lane
Let's travel along through Memory Lane
And live those moments once again
Too fast time travels through our years
Let's enjoy our smiles, remember tears
Such wondrous blessings are yours and mine
Oh life - how precious how sublime.
July 2009
And live those moments once again
Too fast time travels through our years
Let's enjoy our smiles, remember tears
Such wondrous blessings are yours and mine
Oh life - how precious how sublime.
July 2009
My Jewels
I read each name with tender care
Such precious jewels sent from above
Each has their own special place
That time and memory cannot erase!
April 21, 2007
Such precious jewels sent from above
Each has their own special place
That time and memory cannot erase!
April 21, 2007
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
If Pages Could Speak
If the pages in this book could speak,
They'd talk with you and me
Give way to inner thoughts they know
That you and I can't see.
The picture shows the beauty - the color and the glory -
But lying silently behind - is real drama - the whole story!
For a camera cannot capture the feelings that lie there
Be it pride- or hurt and heartache - the face will hide with care.
Yes! There's great big heaps of happiness
And then there's sorrow and strife
Put it all together -
And that's what we call life!
So turn each page with tenderness
Release your smiles or tears
Time moves on so quickly
Catch - and hold these years!
Written January 4, 1996
Orvetta's thoughts (to Steve's family): Much love to all of you! How I love you all. You're a family to be proud of - all the way - you highlight my life.
They'd talk with you and me
Give way to inner thoughts they know
That you and I can't see.
The picture shows the beauty - the color and the glory -
But lying silently behind - is real drama - the whole story!
For a camera cannot capture the feelings that lie there
Be it pride- or hurt and heartache - the face will hide with care.
Yes! There's great big heaps of happiness
And then there's sorrow and strife
Put it all together -
And that's what we call life!
So turn each page with tenderness
Release your smiles or tears
Time moves on so quickly
Catch - and hold these years!
Written January 4, 1996
Orvetta's thoughts (to Steve's family): Much love to all of you! How I love you all. You're a family to be proud of - all the way - you highlight my life.
Memories Of You
These pages that you start to view
Just tell my memories of you
There's nothing fancy - nothing clever
Just holds my thoughts
That are forever!
You are so precious to me!
Just tell my memories of you
There's nothing fancy - nothing clever
Just holds my thoughts
That are forever!
You are so precious to me!
Clouds
Clouds adrift in the summer sky
Resemble life as they wander by
Always enduring
Moving on
Always returning - never gone -
It's the circle of life!
For memories are forever!
Resemble life as they wander by
Always enduring
Moving on
Always returning - never gone -
It's the circle of life!
For memories are forever!
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Happy Mother's Day!
Happy Mother's Day to Orvetta - Mother, Grandmother, Great & Great-Great Grandmother!
A couple quick glimpses into the past:
A couple quick glimpses into the past:
Sunday, April 25, 2010
project photos: sneak peek
Dad and I spent the entire day in Delta today to work on the project with Grandma. Dad's job was to record many more readings, and my job was to take photos for the book which is progressing well. It was great spending time with Grandma and seeing her get so excited about the project. She just kept saying, "You're making me feel so special!" Well, maybe that's because you are, Grandma!
Watch in the next few days for an updated "video recorded readings" list. There will be MANY more, and I can guarantee you'll love them.
All in all, I'd call the day a success!
Here's a sneak peek of some of the photos I took today at the house which I will be using in the upcoming book. Trust me, everyone. You will LOVE the finished product [when that time comes]. I'm so excited about it. I took dozens of photos both in and around the house, but for now [and probably until the book is done] this is all you're getting. We'll call it a teaser:
Watch in the next few days for an updated "video recorded readings" list. There will be MANY more, and I can guarantee you'll love them.
All in all, I'd call the day a success!
Here's a sneak peek of some of the photos I took today at the house which I will be using in the upcoming book. Trust me, everyone. You will LOVE the finished product [when that time comes]. I'm so excited about it. I took dozens of photos both in and around the house, but for now [and probably until the book is done] this is all you're getting. We'll call it a teaser:
Friday, April 16, 2010
Through My Window
So much I see through my window
A branch of blossoms in the spring
A fleecy cloud in summer skies
A little child - a precious thing.
I've watched the crimson sunsets fade,
The thrush returning to its nest
Busy traffic heading homeward
A tired world - seeking rest.
So much I see through my window
The last dry leaf of amber fall
The quiet snow of wintertime
Marshmallowed o'er my garden wall.
Its there I count the stars at night
And count my many blessings too
Its there I measure my regrets
And humbly ask forgiveness too.
And when my heart is troubled most
Seeking release from pain and care
I wander to my window then
And feel His presence with me there.
He soothes my wounds, and lifts my soul
While all lay silent in the sod
So much I see through my window
As I linger there - with God!
A branch of blossoms in the spring
A fleecy cloud in summer skies
A little child - a precious thing.
I've watched the crimson sunsets fade,
The thrush returning to its nest
Busy traffic heading homeward
A tired world - seeking rest.
So much I see through my window
The last dry leaf of amber fall
The quiet snow of wintertime
Marshmallowed o'er my garden wall.
Its there I count the stars at night
And count my many blessings too
Its there I measure my regrets
And humbly ask forgiveness too.
And when my heart is troubled most
Seeking release from pain and care
I wander to my window then
And feel His presence with me there.
He soothes my wounds, and lifts my soul
While all lay silent in the sod
So much I see through my window
As I linger there - with God!
To A Spider In The Bowl
I can see you spinning round and round
Caught within your snare
Helpless creature that you are
Struggling in your prison there.
Your efforts are so futile
They'll endlessly go on
Yet you are weak and know not --
That your strength will soon be gone.
And mighty giant that I am
Just the merest puff of breath
Could give you back your freedom
And save you from this death.
And as I tower above you
Your fate within my hands
I recognize your nothingness
Controlled by my commands.
So plead with me - beg of me
That I might mercy give
For my very slightest gesture
Could let you die -- or live.
And as the shadows of the day
Moved across my room
I viewed again this tiny dot
In coiled, conceded doom.
I pondered as I stood there --
My head bowed shamefully
Compassion crept into my heart
My soul began to see --
As my thoughts began to soar and rise
To Him who dwells above
I felt His greatness over me
I pleaded for His love.
How small and insignificant
I felt within His power
The sorrow -- and humility
I knew within this hour.
Oh helpless creature that I am
I fall on bended knee
And God in all His mercy
Looked down and smiled on me!
Caught within your snare
Helpless creature that you are
Struggling in your prison there.
Your efforts are so futile
They'll endlessly go on
Yet you are weak and know not --
That your strength will soon be gone.
And mighty giant that I am
Just the merest puff of breath
Could give you back your freedom
And save you from this death.
And as I tower above you
Your fate within my hands
I recognize your nothingness
Controlled by my commands.
So plead with me - beg of me
That I might mercy give
For my very slightest gesture
Could let you die -- or live.
And as the shadows of the day
Moved across my room
I viewed again this tiny dot
In coiled, conceded doom.
I pondered as I stood there --
My head bowed shamefully
Compassion crept into my heart
My soul began to see --
As my thoughts began to soar and rise
To Him who dwells above
I felt His greatness over me
I pleaded for His love.
How small and insignificant
I felt within His power
The sorrow -- and humility
I knew within this hour.
Oh helpless creature that I am
I fall on bended knee
And God in all His mercy
Looked down and smiled on me!
Orvetta's thoughts: For when men get too much power, and too much pride in the heart, they are unknowingly in dire need of a humbling experience to make them humble again and fit for God.
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