tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70535959511723312024-03-04T21:36:01.674-08:00Maureen's ScribblingsUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger40125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-60866310513517238992012-05-14T15:24:00.000-07:002013-03-03T11:05:47.451-08:00Blissful<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUB5zZXfWbMt4E04bX_euDLdPBPVLWWxF1SzYfhpY9U0a1nrvQD8x-sgCIZIKndZ2KwhKhDuO3KysED4DMX1gFeQy2BPR24vBUlijMXtXntf_VK79pn0jQ9iTvas7sJ2fhNAoalYn0MVM/s1600/DSC00090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUB5zZXfWbMt4E04bX_euDLdPBPVLWWxF1SzYfhpY9U0a1nrvQD8x-sgCIZIKndZ2KwhKhDuO3KysED4DMX1gFeQy2BPR24vBUlijMXtXntf_VK79pn0jQ9iTvas7sJ2fhNAoalYn0MVM/s320/DSC00090.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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View from the Villa</div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">My
daughter once described the area along the Mediterranean as blissful, and I
found myself wondering what it would be like to be there. What would blissful
entail; how would it be defined for me? So I began by looking up the word
blissful in the English dictionary and found several descriptors, some of which
just simply didn’t apply. The one that seemed to fit the bill for me was the
one every soul would long for - extreme happiness; ecstasy. Could being on the
Mediterranean offer this type of experience? It remained to be seen. </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><br />
<br />
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">As with most
decisions in my life, they come quickly and I rarely veer from the path once
defined. Selecting Estepona, Spain as my Mediterranean destination, I prepared
myself to be “bliss-tified” and didn’t look back.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><br />
<br />
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The villa I
rented rests thirty meters from the beach that stretches for miles in either
direction. A view of the town of Estepona beckons in the distance both day and
night, and Gibraltar and Africa grace the horizon. The glassed-in veranda
overlooking the beach opens to the invitation of gentle breezes and the songs
of birds. Flowers abound, and the scent of orange blossoms and jasmine fill the
air. Spanish music drifts through the window, and the sound of voices mingle
with the sound of the waves. All is well in my world, wrapped within the walls
of this wonderful getaway.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><br />
<br />
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">So let me
define “my blissful” from a Spanish perspective. It is a meteor flashing across
the night sky and the moonlight reflected on the water. It is the warmth of the
sun that greets me every morning just like a cup of coffee, and the wind that
cools my face when the sun gets hot. It is tapas shared at my favorite cafe
with a vino rosada or pitcher of sangria, as the birds perch on the chairs and
boats drift quietly into the marina. A cafe con leche and a friendly hola from
a passerby warm my soul in the cool of the evening. As I struggle with my
limited Spanish, the locals smile and show infinite patience. A siesta in the
afternoon draws everything into a quite peace, and I long to embrace the
culture here. Can heaven be so blissful? Job said “these are just the edges of
his ways”, and I say hallelujah! </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><br />
<br />
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">As I ponder “blissful”
here on the shores of the Mediterranean, I must ultimately recognize that it is
a state of mind, and therefore is not anchored by ones surroundings as much as
by ones outlook on life. For me it is
leaving the baggage behind and embracing new experiences; allowing new occurrences
to outshine the old, if only for a season.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><br />
<br />
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">As I work on
my assignment for writer’s group here on the southern coast of Spain, my
husband wanders around the villa, a little restless as he waits to make our way
downtown for a warm hello and a cold drink. I tell him I brought him along
simply to drive the standard - smile. But truth be known, it wouldn’t be a
blissful paradise without him. </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><br />
<br />
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">I think I
have successfully embraced blissful: I have found my nirvana. So what’s next?
Simply book this wonderful haven for even longer next year. Done!</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><br />
<br />
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">I would like
to be able to say that I miss my life in Nova Scotia, but in all honesty I
could simple leave it behind and begin again, as I have done for most of my
life. I love new beginnings; new experiences. I believe they are the essence of
youthfulness, and I hope to embrace them for many years to come. Here’s to
following your dreams and finding your blissful. May you carry it with you wherever you go.</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-62185204185315008442012-03-17T13:23:00.003-07:002012-03-17T13:29:11.930-07:00There is nothing more contented than a cat with a full belly .....<a href="http://30.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_kzfsleRF9R1qb3yymo1_400.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 263px;" src="http://30.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_kzfsleRF9R1qb3yymo1_400.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Isn't this just the perfect St. Patrick's Day Photo. I found it at a blog called <a href="http://hellotallsara.tumblr.com/post/455136038/lolcat-happy-st-patricks-day">Greetings, Air</a><br />and just had to share. Although I don't celebrate the day, I do like all things green, especially Kermit and Shrek.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-47449371481511701242012-03-17T10:23:00.004-07:002012-03-17T10:32:52.602-07:00It's All About the Hat<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUgUVfstNYKuG_Cs0GjxpFwqHNTX0CtB8FdMrPvUFTtVaU02EK2VvFkd3y5fb3HrPZqp6G_n1LoV13pBQLyb_xp54-JdjjKX9DRiY-WrfA_GPZVVLd8JvU_mRY3340ln2_uU2hyphenhyphen9ro0NM/s1600/Favorite+Hat.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 338px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUgUVfstNYKuG_Cs0GjxpFwqHNTX0CtB8FdMrPvUFTtVaU02EK2VvFkd3y5fb3HrPZqp6G_n1LoV13pBQLyb_xp54-JdjjKX9DRiY-WrfA_GPZVVLd8JvU_mRY3340ln2_uU2hyphenhyphen9ro0NM/s400/Favorite+Hat.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720918256986859986" border="0" /></a><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> 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mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">I didn’t have to wear my favorite hat once this winter.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Where did winter go?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Was it whisked away because somehow I didn’t deserve it, or because someone somewhere needed it more than me?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Not everyone loves winter, but when you grow up in a country with four seasons, you learn to embrace each, or hate each.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Hate has never been a feeling I enjoyed, so I tend to go with the flow, and embrace those things that I can’t change.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>So I love winter.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Now the days are longer and I am enjoying warmer than normal temperatures.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I’m not complaining.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I packed my favorite hat away with a promise of next winter.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">But as I look back, I missed this year’s Sunday walk with Stuart and friends from the church trekking up the mountain in the newly fallen snow.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I missed the annual winter carnival and the great time spent outside with friends from the community.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>And I especially missed the “true” snow-days when everyone was sequestered in their homes after a significant snow.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Not the snow-days when freezing rain forced school closure, or snow fell briefly, followed by a dirge of rain, and ice flourished.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>There were no stunning frozen scenes along the brook this year, and the bay rarely steamed.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I know many would argue that it was a good winter; the roads great for travel.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>If there has to be a blessing in a non-winter year I guess that would be it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>But I for one missed the high snow banks and the crisp, winter days perfect for outdoor activities.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>If we must live in this northern country, than it stands to reason that winter should be our friend.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>But the robins are here, and any snow we get now will be named for them.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Daffodils are peeking their heads above ground, the maple trees are in bud, and I’ve heard rumors of crocuses in bloom.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Time moves on, and so must I.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> 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unhidewhenused="false" qformat="true" name="Book Title"> <w:lsdexception locked="false" priority="37" name="Bibliography"> <w:lsdexception locked="false" priority="39" qformat="true" name="TOC Heading"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif][if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0cm; mso-para-margin-right:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0cm; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height:115%;Georgia","serif";font-family:";font-size:78%;color:black;" >© 2012 by Maureen Newman. All rights reserved.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-57120310843938063762012-03-16T12:43:00.002-07:002012-03-16T12:50:20.599-07:00Fond Memories<a href="http://www.clker.com/cliparts/4/2/5/f/11954220501933863587liftarn_Adult_and_child.svg.med.png"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 177px; height: 298px;" src="http://www.clker.com/cliparts/4/2/5/f/11954220501933863587liftarn_Adult_and_child.svg.med.png" alt="" border="0" /></a><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:relyonvml/> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif][if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> 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</w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif][if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0cm; mso-para-margin-right:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0cm; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"><span style="font-size:10.0pt; line-height:200%;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black">Gerald was unlike any other man I know.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>His spirit was gentle and his laugh was contagious.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I wanted to spend every hour I could with him, and as a child of twelve I found myself following him everywhere.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He had worked many jobs in the time I knew him, excelling equally at each.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>But the one I remember most was his position as mixer for the local Coca Cola dealership.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I would spend long hours after school setting atop the towering bags of sugar, watching him carefully measure each ingredient into the large, luminous vats.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He would describe each step to me in detail, and at the end of the day, I would be rewarded by a cold bottle of the elixir, or so I thought it to be.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"><span style="font-size:10.0pt; line-height:200%;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black">I loved to listen to Gerald’s stories about interesting people in his life.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>There was Cousin Weekeye, a negro, or at least that was what they called them when I was twelve, who worked at the vinegar mill; and Dempsie Burns, who never worked a day in his life.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>There was Scissors, whose freshly picked blueberries you had to buy if you wanted to save face in the small town, and there was Dan Tips, who frequented the divorcee over the road.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Gerald told stories as he laughed, but I knew from his delivery that each person held a special place in his heart.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>He never judged them; he just liked a good story.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"><span style="font-size:10.0pt; line-height:200%;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black">I can still see Gerald standing, one leg resting on a rock, cigarette in hand, and deep in 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</w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif][if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0cm; mso-para-margin-right:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0cm; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 200%; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; color: black;">You see, Gerald was my dad, and he was and ever will be my soul mate.<span 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font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:7.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Georgia","serif";color:black">© 2012 by Maureen Newman. All rights reserved.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 200%; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; color: black;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"><span style="font-size:10.0pt; line-height:200%;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black"><br /></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-63132861605400292512012-03-08T10:52:00.001-08:002012-03-08T10:55:50.542-08:00Excerpt from my novel<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:relyonvml/> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif][if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> 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</w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif][if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0cm; mso-para-margin-right:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0cm; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">With little to fill her time, Abigail made her way to the basement to begin unpacking the remaining boxes from the move.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Had she known what they contained she would never have begun.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Opening the top of the first box Abigail gasped in despair.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Christmas presents wrapped neatly with bows and ribbons stared back at her from the container.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Each one sported a colourful tag with the sentiment, For my beautiful wife.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Love always, Michael. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>After several moments of uncontrolled tears, Abigail slowly removed the presents from the box, one by one.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Each seemed prettier than the previous one, but the last one took her breath away.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Wrapped in the most stunning gold paper with raised hearts, the gift was adorned with a beautiful red and silver bow woven around a large piece of mistletoe.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>But it was the words on the tag that broke her heart all over again.....<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>To be opened on Christmas Eve (wink, wink).<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I’ll be Santa Claus, so we need to be sure Timmy doesn’t see me kissing you.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Resting on her knees, Abigail stared for some time at the beautiful gift.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">I don’t care if it’s not Christmas yet.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>No will know when I open it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></i>With a gently touch she removed the bow and slowly released the tape that secured the wrapping paper.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>A box with the words “Darling It’s You” printed on the top lay before her.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Bowing her head, Abigail closed her eyes and took a deep breath.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>There was no doubt about it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Michael had bought her the ruby satin nightgown she had seen hanging in the window of the lingerie shop on their last night in Sedona.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Opening the cover, her suspicion was confirmed as she lifted the delicate gown from the box.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight:bold">Intriguing whispery black lace cascaded down the front of the dainty spaghetti straps to the bodice. The striking ruby and black contrast of color was stunning to the eye.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The freshness of the pain kept Abigail huddled on the floor beside the parcels for several minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Making every effort to contain her grief, she slowly picked up the other gifts, and placed them back in the box.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>As tears blurred her vision, she held the beautiful nightgown close to her chest and headed up the stairs to an empty bed.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-58204680556551752332012-03-05T11:55:00.003-08:002012-03-05T12:27:19.465-08:00Faith<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCJ-ovJMPd0Q2A4zdMv8J4QfBBD8VC5OnggG0i4pPJdDoW6d8HS1aqPVgyJbTbMspXv672jUctBugkMQsoQrOXiUtn9RYAZihLJvx3hqs_-fxecI1y8ESUgLdtUxYv6yl6-atlxXDTiH8/s400/Sarolta+B%C3%A1n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; 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mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0cm; mso-para-margin-right:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0cm; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">I peer into your face</p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">As through a glass</p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">Darkly </p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">Your breath is vapor<br /></p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">Your spirit is muted</p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">It clouds my mind</p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">Facts deceive</p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">But faith believes</p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">I live on</p> <div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">This blog post is written in response to a prompt from <a href="http://magpietales.blogspot.com/">The Mag</a> and 1 Corinthians 13:12.</span><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-51822754286685801612012-02-25T12:45:00.006-08:002012-02-25T13:08:53.633-08:00To Wit, To Woo<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0_ODYjurqtZoAXNBMb2Xk_G9P0dyafCInqV1s4VP6OXlKUdnqiP_sPv8cGAxhU8-AW-OQ36lNEDWBEZiXFqdEDjtEnXouMC8x5LQgdwc6zjZWG00twrVdjCD0CQFJDom61HluA4b4jQY/s400/phone+booth+epic+mahoney.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" 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mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0cm; mso-para-margin-right:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0cm; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">To wit, to woo</p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">Why you?</p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">Laugh out loud</p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">Hoot at the crowd</p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">Enticing, flattering</p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">My senses responding</p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">Humour hides</p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">While smooth talk implies</p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">To wit, to woo</p><p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">It's not you</p><p style="text-align: left;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">This poem is written in response to a prompt from <a href="http://sundayscribblings.blogspot.com/">Sunday Scribblings</a> and <a href="http://magpietales.blogspot.com/">The Mag</a>.</span><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-54634560592621897022011-01-29T12:51:00.000-08:002011-01-29T12:57:26.595-08:00Enraptured<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0KIf74W3vowZGA7Pt5jXlSddxnIkXe0L0S90ZGZXKhlxcWp8f-eBDZ3bkZXzeXV3Jkt-hIVR1jHSiO0yNVbKWKYWA4ZVFKZxmmG1S4-DG-ZWeiI6m9sTU3Fkg5NxbIAo8vhudOLCnouA/s1600/kennedy-taylor-s-a-snow-covered-black-forest-scene-with-an-ice-covered-stream%255B1%255D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567714235193153378" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0KIf74W3vowZGA7Pt5jXlSddxnIkXe0L0S90ZGZXKhlxcWp8f-eBDZ3bkZXzeXV3Jkt-hIVR1jHSiO0yNVbKWKYWA4ZVFKZxmmG1S4-DG-ZWeiI6m9sTU3Fkg5NxbIAo8vhudOLCnouA/s320/kennedy-taylor-s-a-snow-covered-black-forest-scene-with-an-ice-covered-stream%255B1%255D.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIgEKKrduXCZ6-EIMAEULaUSPwVlx9b5m-QcOlglCpr1zXE2ktXTmfyb5Ab7IeKerhOdZp6REp6VoK5Mc4hryWT2l15XjbO4N9UsFDNapmlqGg0r_4nJokGJ6ARGvmVWWDl04BEMSXr58/s1600/IMG_6023arrow%255B1%255D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567713849628047602" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 228px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 163px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIgEKKrduXCZ6-EIMAEULaUSPwVlx9b5m-QcOlglCpr1zXE2ktXTmfyb5Ab7IeKerhOdZp6REp6VoK5Mc4hryWT2l15XjbO4N9UsFDNapmlqGg0r_4nJokGJ6ARGvmVWWDl04BEMSXr58/s320/IMG_6023arrow%255B1%255D.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div></div></div><br /><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p>I peer into the depths of the snow covered forest and my heart leaps for joy at the peaceful scene that confronts me. Although I have devoured this scene many times before, the perspective afforded by the newly fallen snow amplifies each detail, as each branch and nook uncovers definition otherwise overlooked. Shadows beckon as the sun ignites the world around, transforming muted tones into objects with brilliant contrast. My vision is enraptured as I linger in this peaceful environ and breathe the crisp air that surrounds me. Finding purpose in the moment, my thoughts fall from my pen upon the white page, seeking to capture a fraction of the beauty before me. But words fail to bequeath meaning to the pureness and sanctity of this tranquil scene. </p><p><em><span style="font-size:78%;">© 2011 by Maureen Newman. All rights reserved. </span></em></p><p><em>Written in response to a prompt from <a href="http://magpietales.blogspot.com/2011/01/mag-50.html">Magpie Tales</a>.</em></p><p> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-62175433853859955552011-01-04T16:59:00.000-08:002011-01-04T17:02:04.789-08:00The Dance<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSPIcGrlryPWbDb-hM7trnp9Hbnke2XS8dBjW4k9fvYBJ12icIxUsW1q30M-Pwhuvv2vC9qIz3GLwFjPPp7DIGQrWBWPj-SR2M1aFWLJY1RFe8olbcHzMiSjSeNBDj9kyKQyMCBFP0854/s1600/IMG_5851a%255B1%255D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558500328358960114" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 238px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSPIcGrlryPWbDb-hM7trnp9Hbnke2XS8dBjW4k9fvYBJ12icIxUsW1q30M-Pwhuvv2vC9qIz3GLwFjPPp7DIGQrWBWPj-SR2M1aFWLJY1RFe8olbcHzMiSjSeNBDj9kyKQyMCBFP0854/s320/IMG_5851a%255B1%255D.jpg" border="0" /></a>The dance<br />Poised, embracing what is<br />Holding a thought, grasping a whisper<br />Determined to find our place<br />Eager to waltz, floating in harmony<br />The dance<br />Balanced in rest<br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">© 2011 by Maureen Newman. All rights reserved.</span><br /><p><span style="font-size:78%;"><em><span style="font-size:85%;">This post is written in response to a prompt from <a href="http://magpietales.blogspot.com/">Magpie Tales</a>.</span></em></p><br /><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-29799733874819926892010-12-28T10:21:00.000-08:002010-12-28T10:53:43.180-08:00Close to Christmas by Maureen Newman<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvrJGd4GmVZPp_Azohao1IECzhVszMkgpzyoU0T7ZyLvHPefKKFl4GQFPaeQXc_L_alDqWpBc5zGkJHrnSNXdc8uMIjioGZRRl8UauYdi6KyBspHE-hsehQ1PEWj6WidT0igJ381eQpec/s1600/Close+to+Christmas.JPG"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 425px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 354px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvrJGd4GmVZPp_Azohao1IECzhVszMkgpzyoU0T7ZyLvHPefKKFl4GQFPaeQXc_L_alDqWpBc5zGkJHrnSNXdc8uMIjioGZRRl8UauYdi6KyBspHE-hsehQ1PEWj6WidT0igJ381eQpec/s1600/Close+to+Christmas.JPG" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:78%;">© 2010 by Maureen Newman. All rights reserved.</span></div><span style="font-size:78%;"><div align="center"><br /></div></span><div align="left">In late 2006 I picked up a paintbrush for the first time. Now, at the end of 2010, I have sold over 450 paintings worldwide. How e<strong>X</strong>citing! Join me on my journey as I capture memories and paint stories of rural Nova Scotia with a brush. From rambling farmsteads to quiet coastal scenes, my yearning for a simpler life comes to life on canvas. To view more paintings, visit my website at <a href="http://www.mnewmanfolkart.com/">http://www.mnewmanfolkart.com/</a> or my blog at <a href="http://www.mnewmanfolkart.blogspot.com/">http://www.mnewmanfolkart.blogspot.com/</a>. If you fall in love with the images, sign up to receive the blog updates and be the first to view each painting and provide feedback that will continue to inspire future scenes. Blessing for 2011!</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="left"><span style="font-size:85%;">This posting is in response to a prompt from <a href="http://abcwednesday-mrsnesbitt.blogspot.com/">ABC Wednesday</a>.</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-70489868694445446702010-12-01T13:23:00.000-08:002010-12-01T13:34:22.594-08:00Anticipation<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjS5yaJrlBMBQwYpJdQo3r5_ZyHsCSyKF0LODqVMDR_xfdbYzHssXPcBMhOeeeuiXmQRRE07C_N0W9HY9XGWhaHfgfN2_lpPnphPxOAJg5El1NTxKX892LTQi6efbaNivvgBrG77ECLxI/s1600/IMG_3214a600.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545828324217171090" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 214px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjS5yaJrlBMBQwYpJdQo3r5_ZyHsCSyKF0LODqVMDR_xfdbYzHssXPcBMhOeeeuiXmQRRE07C_N0W9HY9XGWhaHfgfN2_lpPnphPxOAJg5El1NTxKX892LTQi6efbaNivvgBrG77ECLxI/s320/IMG_3214a600.jpg" border="0" /></a>The snow-covered path to my door<br />Waits; undisturbed, barren<br />Inside the fire burns<br />But not in my soul<br />Moments without you embrace eternity<br />Tick, tock. Even the walls talk<br />Slowly the hours pass<br />Sand through an hourglass<br />The scent of evergreen fills the air<br />Footprints, softly linger<br />Waiting, anticipating<br />Impulses wax; passion ignites<br />Embracing, touching<br />Together again<br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">© 2010 by Maureen Newman. All rights reserved.<br /></span><em><span style="font-size:85%;">Written in response to a prompt from <a href="http://magpietales.blogspot.com/">Magpie Tales</a>.</span></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-28728584250205132712010-11-20T17:17:00.000-08:002010-11-20T17:23:46.228-08:00A Day<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR6M33DBZ5Dnm4xByRIBkgqrHu6xQZfUbaK8LHZRNv19S-Am6etqbOZI_Xl8xLpv7HTZp_PMYaoL4d_9Sro9X79cRHlVB0GOzmS5HkJoFiLc6QwpJdHzT6xtqN4wfaZpTlB-M9XlYPyK8/s1600/sad-woman-silhouette%255B1%255D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541806555988908066" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR6M33DBZ5Dnm4xByRIBkgqrHu6xQZfUbaK8LHZRNv19S-Am6etqbOZI_Xl8xLpv7HTZp_PMYaoL4d_9Sro9X79cRHlVB0GOzmS5HkJoFiLc6QwpJdHzT6xtqN4wfaZpTlB-M9XlYPyK8/s320/sad-woman-silhouette%255B1%255D.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I found my heart within a dream<br />It lay there dry and barren, it seemed<br />Awash with pain, destroyed by strife<br />Faded and weak, yet still pumping life<br /><br />Yesterday the blood pumped red<br />Today you no longer share my bed<br />Red is replaced by the depression of grey<br />Laundry water flows through my veins today</div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">© 2010 by Maureen Newman. All rights reserved.</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>Written in response to a prompt from <a href="http://sundayscribblings.blogspot.com/">Sunday Scribblings</a>.</em></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-23281951729539751882010-11-17T11:42:00.000-08:002010-11-17T11:56:57.662-08:00Antiquity<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmDz4tQWv_YbTDHskUdQj9tsMe-6R3dgMeZ5NREZEBw0Z2WOEnQ_o06wJvUJKmclfK7vNfvHLYp3ZIk4SnT6L7yjKjkbKR3Sugr5LTvJkA6lq3_rmxjOXuyBDAxmgxZUEwl_rrmgOZx4A/s1600/IMG_5321aa500%255B1%255D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540606763362734738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 238px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmDz4tQWv_YbTDHskUdQj9tsMe-6R3dgMeZ5NREZEBw0Z2WOEnQ_o06wJvUJKmclfK7vNfvHLYp3ZIk4SnT6L7yjKjkbKR3Sugr5LTvJkA6lq3_rmxjOXuyBDAxmgxZUEwl_rrmgOZx4A/s320/IMG_5321aa500%255B1%255D.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I carefully open the old family Bible, the pages stiff and fragile with age. Long years it spent tucked away in the trunk amidst letters from home penned early 1900 by those long forgotten. The binding creaks as I lay it flat upon the bed beside me, eager to unearth treasures sealed within its pages. Faded pictures depicting familiar bible scenes weave the story, and bring to mind lessons from my childhood. A photo, lovingly wrapped in parchment paper, adheres to a page, and dried fern branches speak of losses once deeply felt. Gradually I move through the books of the Bible exposing the contents long hidden from human eyes. And then I find it. Folded into a perfect square, and tied about with what appears to be a perfectly preserved braided lock of hair, its water-stained exterior denotes an age far beyond the other contents held captive between the pages. Placing the treasure in my hand, I gently stroke the braid, drawn, yet repulsed; touching a fragment of a life lived so very long ago. Unwilling to disturb the fragile parcel born in antiquity, I place it gently back within the pages of its tomb, wanting to protect the treasure held within.</div><div> </div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">© 2010 by Maureen Newman. All rights reserved.</span></div><div> </div><div><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>Written in response to a prompt from </em><a href="http://magpietales.blogspot.com/"><em>Magpie Tales</em></a><em>.</em></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-82731712838169985982010-11-11T10:35:00.000-08:002010-11-12T06:34:14.064-08:00Relax<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpBPzuct_OdwbnYf9pGN1uiRiAWWR_VYgphVu7_cNz09vjSObVTVVGXySWLJShyphenhyphenErQO1uR3ArQ1yE2WQ6G25e3_liS1X_4iA8SHawjAiaEM9cz9dlvUZnwfbOBiTniVxDox4Uaj5gIUnM/s1600/shot%255B1%255D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538362865254905746" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 216px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 216px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpBPzuct_OdwbnYf9pGN1uiRiAWWR_VYgphVu7_cNz09vjSObVTVVGXySWLJShyphenhyphenErQO1uR3ArQ1yE2WQ6G25e3_liS1X_4iA8SHawjAiaEM9cz9dlvUZnwfbOBiTniVxDox4Uaj5gIUnM/s320/shot%255B1%255D.jpg" border="0" /></a>Relax; it will only hurt for a minute. In an instant it will be over with and you will be well on your way to healing. Every time you think about this event you will be thankful you stepped up to the plate and had the procedure done. I mean, why would anyone want to feel sad, lonely, depressed, discouraged, unloved, unhappy, undesirable, un -anything, ever again? Once the needle is inserted into the proper location, negative emotions will be gone forever. How nice is that?<br /><br />“Fantastic!” Eric announces as I rolls up his sleeve.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">© 2010 by Maureen Newman. All rights reserved.</span><br /><span style="font-size:78%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>Written in response to the prompt "relax" from <a href="http://themethursday.blogspot.com/">Theme Thursday</a>.</em></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-22788264818928706222010-11-10T16:13:00.000-08:002010-11-10T16:18:40.754-08:00Maligned<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi87r9iaYCGgPLyEQb4awREfXFlSgXGaOxjQz3XRzRVRiQikEIzTitWRL11h_6fxw1AcRsBxhXboRwexdHL5uGhbHsu8xTaqTyxLMg1SpXBEjA2zjqEekK5tnXUEc4lEDs6CITFqliYZl8/s1600/IMG_5278a%255B1%255D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538078952125536706" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi87r9iaYCGgPLyEQb4awREfXFlSgXGaOxjQz3XRzRVRiQikEIzTitWRL11h_6fxw1AcRsBxhXboRwexdHL5uGhbHsu8xTaqTyxLMg1SpXBEjA2zjqEekK5tnXUEc4lEDs6CITFqliYZl8/s320/IMG_5278a%255B1%255D.jpg" border="0" /></a>He stood afar off, away from the crowd, his quiet demeanour echoing the gentle spirit I know so well. Aghast by the vigour of the other participants, I draw my memoir close to my chest, endeavouring to keep it pure, unsoiled by the hateful comments flowing from the mouths of the malcontents. How could they believe such a thing? Why would they accept such blasphemy spoken from such a wily character? Once they would have stood firm for their king, and now they seek to destroy him. To believe the raucous comments maligning the words I so loving penned. My book should have set him upon a pillar; a place deserving of such a man. Will he ever look upon me the same again? The fire within me burns away my hope, and the book held close to my chest crushes my heart. <br /><div> </div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">© 2010 by Maureen Newman. All rights reserved.</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;"></span> </div><div> </div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">Written in response to a prompt from <a href="http://magpietales.blogspot.com/">Magpie Tales</a>.</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-91335839903261437172010-11-06T12:34:00.000-07:002010-11-06T12:38:02.131-07:00An Invitation<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSi8RJ6Qei__Q6GLXjoOv9fb5YBDlfAM0dn4FrYSUK22PpYHdaIGs1HMGXoLwILICwJo3GaqXxIYb3xOolDAakrkRNG-ufXZBr318sZGTgeGBX6MjUajaO0ukaOETOw-rbgEwFZsVdRfk/s1600/IMG_5244c%5B2%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536522473763168754" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSi8RJ6Qei__Q6GLXjoOv9fb5YBDlfAM0dn4FrYSUK22PpYHdaIGs1HMGXoLwILICwJo3GaqXxIYb3xOolDAakrkRNG-ufXZBr318sZGTgeGBX6MjUajaO0ukaOETOw-rbgEwFZsVdRfk/s320/IMG_5244c%5B2%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a>You give me the eye<br />What? What’s up!<br />No roasting pan, no rotisserie<br />No deep fryer, no wok<br />What’s the plan!<br />You invited me for dinner<br />I paused to consider<br />Funny, so it seems<br />But the fat just hit the pan<br />And I, have other plans<br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">© 2010 by Maureen Newman. All rights reserved.<br /></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">Written in response to a prompt from <a href="http://magpietales.blogspot.com/">Magpie Tales</a>.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-82188832422736020812010-11-02T09:32:00.000-07:002010-11-02T09:37:26.680-07:00Halloween<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijhN8q0d73wg0WXSbklvkNVTRN6Y3TJDrRqKb_KuX1TZMuTfxOcHm0a7YBgrWP9krWN1g22YH_G_iX0QQ-Wjmz7pndEjTua9Jrlfc7QqEZDO7JaL-sQFhjLLbLwBWYHAEaUw2_Ck68XG4/s1600/halloween3tt9%5B1%5D.png"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5534991540024757746" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 178px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijhN8q0d73wg0WXSbklvkNVTRN6Y3TJDrRqKb_KuX1TZMuTfxOcHm0a7YBgrWP9krWN1g22YH_G_iX0QQ-Wjmz7pndEjTua9Jrlfc7QqEZDO7JaL-sQFhjLLbLwBWYHAEaUw2_Ck68XG4/s320/halloween3tt9%5B1%5D.png" border="0" /></a>Black cats<br />Orange pumpkins<br />White ghosts<br />Grey tombs<br />Colors waiting the darkness<br /><br />Flaming eyes<br />Witchy screams<br />Creaking doors<br />Misty paths<br />Environs positioned for fear<br /><br />Fluttering angels<br />Stumbling scarecrows<br />Eager Egors<br />Strutting cowboys<br />Evil spirits disappear<br /><br />Happy faces<br />Candy kisses<br />Sugar highs<br />Late night vigils<br />Once again it’s Halloween<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>This poem is written in response to a prompt from <a href="http://jinglepoetry.blogspot.com/">Jingle Poetry PotLuck</a>.<br /></em></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-18747352056481545392010-10-27T16:24:00.000-07:002010-10-27T16:29:09.822-07:00Julia<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGoB3y3poLjpwXd5VjJ9mpWnoqAF2fwt0d3aBd25Qa_IiXp0BQKlDcyeP9ITsu8-tvg7dJey0ueGbk75fM-BytIjDoGAVK8C7_a81DT9G_56sgPoaiUzd_GCbBR_Q1nP012wVG6B-pHG0/s1600/IMG_5023a%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532871208754871154" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGoB3y3poLjpwXd5VjJ9mpWnoqAF2fwt0d3aBd25Qa_IiXp0BQKlDcyeP9ITsu8-tvg7dJey0ueGbk75fM-BytIjDoGAVK8C7_a81DT9G_56sgPoaiUzd_GCbBR_Q1nP012wVG6B-pHG0/s320/IMG_5023a%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a>Julia! Was the only mark you left on this world the small gravestone that denotes your passing? Or did your lungs breath air and your voice erupt with sound, if only for a moment? Did your mother hold your tiny hand and grieve for the daughter that would not be? Or were you whisked away as your life was ebbing to spare her pain? Is your name listed in the family bible? Did your passing leave souls as empty as the cradle that would never rock? Or was it promptly stowed away along with your memory? <br /><br />Julia! Does your voice erupt with sweet sounds, for all eternity, as you rest gently in the arms of God? Or does your voice mingle with the heavenly choir in praise to the Almighty? <br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>Written in response to a prompt from </em><a href="http://magpietales.blogspot.com/"><em>Magpie Tales</em></a><em>.</em></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-22947662856044888882010-10-25T16:04:00.000-07:002010-10-25T16:27:10.220-07:00For Eternity<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTTy3paZYsF5Jbe_HCl6JJeLsXaAzUDOueVvs2zlQPAirNAzFI-lwjPhnvstxghJJk2gV1YzvBo2JzsnkKrpxIz8PGKynekaUOrRBOzRXueD2A142CjGnS7-yxLD9yihr68RZn5C1Oh6I/s1600/478px-Elderly_Woman_%252C_B%2526W_image_by_Chalmers_Butterfield%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532124461720924002" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 255px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTTy3paZYsF5Jbe_HCl6JJeLsXaAzUDOueVvs2zlQPAirNAzFI-lwjPhnvstxghJJk2gV1YzvBo2JzsnkKrpxIz8PGKynekaUOrRBOzRXueD2A142CjGnS7-yxLD9yihr68RZn5C1Oh6I/s320/478px-Elderly_Woman_%252C_B%2526W_image_by_Chalmers_Butterfield%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a>Love; beautifully woven<br />Wonderfully crafted<br />Carefully nurtured<br />Blessed of God<br /><br />Years; touchstone moments<br />Periods of elation<br />Times of restoration<br />Memoirs written black on white<br /><br />Reminiscence; what was <br />Minds bonding, bodies melding<br />Senses heightened, love kindled<br />Alone, I sense him still<br /><br />Rejuvenation; beyond the vale<br />My lover beckons<br />Outstretched arms embrace<br />Together for eternity<br /><br /><em><span style="font-size:85%;">This was written in response to a prompt from</span><a href="http://jinglepoetry.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Jingle Poetry</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;">.</span></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-28618309654108959352010-10-20T16:40:00.000-07:002010-10-20T16:58:58.051-07:00A Monster Among Us<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs39rFU3JW472WcJJILyPe5zXlc7nKHvStDULW_bFJRN0DVfzTCNPLOh1pqvxeHy5C9HNIkEuUXfp_c3hCAc1eIcWeU8TBHG6d8qBXAdoyCAiYXeuZt6_6gVP9ToNK2yt29NKiJ-ijurE/s1600/IMG_5118a650_signed_2%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530277558807060674" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs39rFU3JW472WcJJILyPe5zXlc7nKHvStDULW_bFJRN0DVfzTCNPLOh1pqvxeHy5C9HNIkEuUXfp_c3hCAc1eIcWeU8TBHG6d8qBXAdoyCAiYXeuZt6_6gVP9ToNK2yt29NKiJ-ijurE/s320/IMG_5118a650_signed_2%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a>Inside a man, a soldier<br />A monster groans<br />Hideous and cruel<br /><br />Years pass<br />Odd events transpire<br />Obscure, no trace<br /><br />Women travel in pairs<br />Some fall prey<br />The trail remains cold<br /><br />Stealth, wandering through their abode<br />Moving through each life<br />Robbed in their guise<br /><br />Death, long to arrive<br />Beseeching, desperate pleading<br />Broken and stretched upon the ground<br /><br />A monster in high standing<br />Hidden in plain view<br />Forensic tracks betray his way<br /><br />Souvenirs mark the course<br />Documented death and perversion<br />Horror, despair, pain<br /><br />Families grieve, their world suspended<br />Can justice be gained?<br />Can punishment satisfy?<br /><br />God enters the court<br />The monster weeps yet turns away<br />Red flames of hell flash from his eyes<br /><br />Families recognize the Saviour<br />Vengeance is Mine, the eternal judge<br />God alone can satisfy<br /><br /><em><span style="font-size:85%;">This is written in response to a prompt from <a href="http://magpietales.blogspot.com/">Magpie Tales </a>and reflects my thoughts on the<br />crimes enacted by Colonel Russel Williams, Ontario, Canada. Best description: the devil's work with ferocious drive. Prayers for the victims and their families.</span></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-8428524059951161042010-10-17T11:47:00.000-07:002010-10-17T11:50:15.244-07:00Unleash<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6SZXS3LkdXLe8fBrcdW2VGT9Y5puY7qhZvtYr7VFp-BqXEfkO-IYGV8WOOQ9QGTOQf6XEVahMs69bhoIHRMctkMZbm5mG4Z4ThP5Ya_BEGAIohun61ntrVIqCecI54nDH8Jul8Stq_50/s1600/images%5B9%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529088553631742098" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 164px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 196px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6SZXS3LkdXLe8fBrcdW2VGT9Y5puY7qhZvtYr7VFp-BqXEfkO-IYGV8WOOQ9QGTOQf6XEVahMs69bhoIHRMctkMZbm5mG4Z4ThP5Ya_BEGAIohun61ntrVIqCecI54nDH8Jul8Stq_50/s320/images%5B9%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a>Into the wind I bend<br />Head bowed, arms across my chest<br />Working, pressing onward<br />Reaching for something higher, something greater<br />Unwilling to fail, eager to win<br /><br />Challenged, I tread onward<br />Aware of the impossibilities, the barriers<br />Conscious of my strengths, my beliefs<br />Gaining power from beyond<br />I rally my troops and wage war against my foe<br />Unleashing my will, yet preserving my dignity<br />I fear no enemy this side of the grave<br /><br />Written in response to a prompt from <a href="http://writersisland.wordpress.com/">Writer's Island</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-4615476730295358942010-10-06T16:01:00.000-07:002010-10-06T16:13:20.043-07:00Autumn<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUDPmlyJrM52H5gYPB-bihI1MckbU6KgLsApmA6zEP7akt1zVvuzQUmChbBGjxmu-u9yHi7eSnq-SvuM90z-lmTaLOwByW2Zq8nzCo52dcaV8Gbbmtp-1HioLbqWlHKB1u_Wl8szLInko/s1600/IMG_2436a%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525072982718986018" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 262px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUDPmlyJrM52H5gYPB-bihI1MckbU6KgLsApmA6zEP7akt1zVvuzQUmChbBGjxmu-u9yHi7eSnq-SvuM90z-lmTaLOwByW2Zq8nzCo52dcaV8Gbbmtp-1HioLbqWlHKB1u_Wl8szLInko/s320/IMG_2436a%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a>Fall is my favourite time of year. Warm colors, cool breezes, rustic sunsets, and starry nights enhance the moments and bring peace to the soul. Who can kayak across a lake reflecting the colors of the season or walk in the woods to the sound of crunching leaves and not feel in awe? Warm fires invite us and hot apple cider delights our pallet as we gaze into the season and relish the victory of a summer well spent. <br /><br />I am convinced that God’s plan is intricately woven into the spectacular beauty of this refreshing season. Recognizing that many of us in the northern hemisphere must endure 4 to 5 months of harsh winter, He blesses us like no other, with this gracious gift of autumn, preparing us for the journey to spring. <br /><br /><em><span style="font-size:85%;">This is written in response to a prompt by </span><a href="http://magpietales.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-size:85%;">Magpie Tales</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;">.</span></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-65845711981496633392010-09-29T16:37:00.000-07:002010-09-29T16:44:20.991-07:00K - Karl<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPRyzKSvwH_jDPUZnPfncNdsCjTiYIe9Zm1sHMD5xe-DqfQazuo_GwgnuDcPXPBRoQmfjlDwxLXdQNIW6iU7YjNvMNnEUCp8e07fbhD0qpC3-RPV4HAmY9xSs11jRHfxLtq9cH-P56W1s/s1600/tv-digital-picture-frame-450x337%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522485081221008610" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 217px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 227px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPRyzKSvwH_jDPUZnPfncNdsCjTiYIe9Zm1sHMD5xe-DqfQazuo_GwgnuDcPXPBRoQmfjlDwxLXdQNIW6iU7YjNvMNnEUCp8e07fbhD0qpC3-RPV4HAmY9xSs11jRHfxLtq9cH-P56W1s/s320/tv-digital-picture-frame-450x337%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>It wasn’t a long date but it was a memorable one. I gauged the timeframe perfectly, with everything ending on a positive note. But as I sit and reflect on the evening, a steady uneasiness builds, founded on no discernable cause, but none the less, a feeling not easily dismissed.</div><br /><div><br />My mother had a sixth sense that proved over time to be rather accurate in its predictions. She could pick out a looser with very little exposure. I remember in particular the young man I dragged home from a hockey game one evening when I was in high school. Although I must admit he was a bit peculiar, I was daft and wouldn’t admit my own concern, just on principle. He was kicked out of school the next week and I never laid eyes on him again – satisfying us both. </div><br /><div><br />“I really don’t want a sixth sense,” I think to myself. “I would rather use logic and reasoning to figure things out.”</div><br /><div><br />Grabbing the remote control, I drop into the wing back chair. “There must be something I can watch to help clear my head. Great! America’s Most Wanted.” </div><br /><div><br />And whose face is plastered all over the screen? Karl’s! My date! As I listen to the list of charges outlining a lengthy bout with crime, I thank God, and mom, for my sixth sense and wish everyone was so gifted.<br /></div><br /><div>Written in response to the "K" prompt on <a href="http://abcwednesdayround3.blogspot.com/">ABC Wednesdays</a>.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-78165285046585005292010-09-23T17:16:00.000-07:002010-09-23T17:20:18.791-07:00The Scent<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixGlU8DQvyl9XJj7HfxrDRatiZPZVbq4B5Md3afpjgUKJL3bBVK8MlENo9IcFTnHrU3dXdeDY7UpVJTDH2h-20uQhwsJhzADY9c4RSF04U7l-rJX622nFHQ9EWai6qWDFgcVvlHIwQlS0/s1600/IMG_4917a%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5520267791606187618" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixGlU8DQvyl9XJj7HfxrDRatiZPZVbq4B5Md3afpjgUKJL3bBVK8MlENo9IcFTnHrU3dXdeDY7UpVJTDH2h-20uQhwsJhzADY9c4RSF04U7l-rJX622nFHQ9EWai6qWDFgcVvlHIwQlS0/s320/IMG_4917a%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a>I linger beside Martha’s bed and listen to her shallow breathing as the clock ticks onward. Hour after hour passes and the air in the room becomes stale and pungent, rife with the anticipation of death. With each passing moment my heart bleeds anguish and my soul reels from the eminent loss. <br /><br />“Where are you Lord? Why does she linger? Are there so many people passing through the pearly gates that she must wait in line? Or is her fate not yet sealed between a judgement of heaven or hell? Are you giving her time?”<br /><br />The sound of footsteps breaks the silence as a stranger enters the room and moves towards the bed, disturbing my thoughts. A peaceful presence accompanies him; another new nurse, I decide. Laying his palm across her forehead, he takes Martha’s frail hand in his and begins to gently massage it. His soft voice whispers secrets to her dying frame, drawing her focus towards him. I arise from my chair and settle beside her on the bed.<br /><br />“Will you yet rebel against your Lord and Saviour, Martha?” I hear him inquire. “Will your last breathe bring the hope of heaven or the pain of hell? You know the choice you must make. I am only here to remind you one last time. The decision has always been yours.”<br /><br />I watch as Martha’s eyes close, forcing tears down her cheeks. Her breathing ceases and her body relaxes in death. Laying her hand gently on the bed, the stranger turns to leave. As if disturbed by his movement, a soft scent fills the air.<br /><br />“Do you smell the perfume?” Without taking my eyes off of Martha, I reach out and grab his arm, needing him to answer.<br /><br />“It is the scent of a new Christian,” he rejoices, as the arm held tightly in my hand simply disappears.<br /><br /><em>This is written in response to a prompt from <a href="http://magpietales.blogspot.com/">Magpie Tales</a>.</em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7053595951172331.post-71253640027564907102010-09-19T15:24:00.000-07:002010-09-19T15:38:03.654-07:00Clean up your act ...“There was a time when you would be anxious to slide your feet out from under the covers and place them on the cold, pristine floor of the dormitory, but not this day. Today is your one year anniversary as a recovering alcoholic and you should be celebrating. But it’s also another anniversary isn’t it; one that doesn’t bear commemorating.”<br /><div><br />“Do you remember the occasion? Does your mind replay the events over and over or have your hardened your heart against the fray?”</div><br /><div>“Wake up! Get out of bed! You need to remember! Let me help you...”</div><br /><div>“Twelve months ago to the day you were traveling home from a weekend party at Becky’s, still hung-over and suffering from a lack of sleep. Anxious to get there in time to shower before going to work, you were traveling too fast for conditions, as usual. Think! What did you see when you sailed around the last corner before the flats? Come on! What did you see?”</div><div><br />“Let me help you with a few more clues! It had four feet and a young girl on its back. And what were they doing? They were out for an early morning ride, enjoying life. “ </div><br /><div>“Look at you. Each day you remember those events as if they were today, crystal clear and poignant, don’t you? When are you going to start living your life again? Get over it. It’s not just about you, you know. “ </div><br /><div>You stumble out of bed and make your way to the bathroom sink.</div><br /><div>“What use are you anyway?” you continue to rail into the mirror. “Clean up your act and get on with it.”</div><div> </div><div></div><div><em><span style="color:#3333ff;">Does this work as an example of 2nd person writing?</span> Written in response to the prompt "clean" from <a href="http://sundayscribblings.blogspot.com/2010/09/232-clean.html">Sunday Scribblings</a>. </em></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8