About Me

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I love expressing heart-felt and inspired words that come unseen at times, yet powerful and profound within.
Enlightenment, in between the lines.

As you will find, I truly believe in the divine power of Gratitude. And how, by that power, it can change lives.

This journey of blogging has been an adventure!
And I'm so glad you stopped by for a quick visit : )

Tuesday, December 16, 2014

~ Christmas Truce ... the Power of Music ~

Christmas Day, 1914

My dear sister Janet,


It is 2:00 in the morning and most of our men are asleep in their dugouts—yet I could not sleep myself before writing to you of the wonderful events of Christmas Eve. In truth, what happened seems almost like a fairy tale, and if I hadn’t been through it myself, I would scarce believe it. Just imagine: While you and the family sang carols before the fire there in London, I did the same with enemy soldiers here on the battlefields of France!

As I wrote before, there has been little serious fighting of late. The first battles of the war left so many dead that both sides have held back until replacements could come from home. So we have mostly stayed in our trenches and waited....and waited.

But what a terrible waiting it has been! Knowing that any moment an artillery shell might land and explode beside us in the trench, killing or maiming several men. And in daylight not daring to lift our heads above ground, for fear of a sniper’s bullet.

And the rain—it has fallen almost daily. Of course, it collects right in our trenches, where we must bail it out with pots and pans. And with the rain has come mud—a good foot or more deep. It splatters and cakes everything, and constantly sucks at our boots. One new recruit got his feet stuck in it, and then his hands too when he tried to get out!

Through all this, we couldn’t help feeling curious about the German soldiers across the way. After all, they faced the same dangers we did, and slogged about in the same muck. What’s more, their first trench was only 50 yards from ours. Between us lay No Man’s Land, bordered on both sides by barbed wire—yet they were close enough we sometimes heard their voices.

Of course, we hated them when they killed our friends. But other times, we joked about them and almost felt we had something in common. And now it seems they felt the same.

Just yesterday morning—Christmas Eve Day—we had our first good freeze. Cold as we were, we welcomed it, because at least the mud froze solid. Everything was tinged white with frost, while a bright sun shone over all. Perfect Christmas weather.

During the day, there was little shelling or rifle fire from either side. And as darkness fell on our Christmas Eve, the shooting stopped entirely. Our first complete silence in months! We hoped it might promise a peaceful holiday, but we didn’t count on it. We’d been told the Germans might attack and try to catch us off guard.
I went to the dugout to rest, and lying on my cot, I must have drifted asleep. All at once my friend John was shaking me awake, saying, “Come and see! See what the Germans are doing!” I grabbed my rifle, stumbled out into the trench, and stuck my head cautiously above the sandbags.
I never hope to see a stranger and more lovely sight. Clusters of tiny lights were shining all along the German line, left and right as far as the eye could see.

“What is it?” I asked in bewilderment,
and John answered, “Christmas trees!”

And so it was. The Germans had placed Christmas trees in front of their trenches, lit by candle or lantern like beacons of good will.

And then we heard their voices raised in song.
Stille nacht, heilige nacht . . . .
This carol may not yet be familiar to us in Britain, but John knew it and translated: “Silent night, holy night.” I’ve never heard one lovelier—or more meaningful, in that quiet, clear night, its dark softened by a first-quarter moon.

When the song finished, the men in our trenches applauded. Yes, British soldiers applauding Germans! Then one of our own men started singing, and we all joined in.British and German harmonizing across No Man’s Land! I would have thought nothing could be more amazing—but what came next was more so.

“English, come over!” we heard one of them shout. “You no shoot, we no shoot.”
There in the trenches, we looked at each other in bewilderment. Then one of us shouted jokingly, “You come over here.”

To our astonishment, we saw two figures rise from the trench, climb over their barbed wire, and advance unprotected across No Man’s Land. One of them called, “Send officer to talk.”
I saw one of our men lift his rifle to the ready, and no doubt others did the same—but our captain called out, “Hold your fire.” Then he climbed out and went to meet the Germans halfway. We heard them talking, and a few minutes later, the captain came back  and announced:

“We’ve agreed there will be no shooting before midnight tomorrow!” 



Across the way, we could make out groups of two or three men starting out of trenches and coming toward us. Then some of us were climbing out too, and in minutes more, there we were in No Man’s Land, over a hundred soldiers and officers of each side, shaking hands with men we’d been trying to kill just hours earlier!

Before long a bonfire was built, and around it we mingled—British khaki and German grey. I must say, the Germans were the better dressed, with fresh uniforms for the holiday.

Something miraculous happened.  We began exchanging gifts.  Even those who could not converse could still exchange gifts—our corned beef for their sausage. Badges and buttons from uniforms changed owners, and one of our lads walked off with the infamous spiked helmet!

As it grew late, a few more songs were traded around the fire, and then all joined in for—I am not lying to you—“Auld Lang Syne.” Then we parted with promises to meet again tomorrow, and even some talk of a football match.

I was just starting back to the trenches when an older German clutched my arm. “My God,” he said, “why cannot we have peace and all go home?”

I answered: “Perhaps, my friend. But also we must ask our hearts.”

And so, dear sister, tell me, has there ever been such a Christmas Eve in all history? And what does it all mean, this impossible befriending of enemies?

Still, one cannot help imagine what would happen if the spirit shown here were caught by the nations of the world. Of course, disputes must always arise. But what if our leaders were to offer well wishes in place of warnings? Songs in place of slurs? Presents in place of reprisals? Would not all war end at once?

Merry Christmas my dear sister.
Your loving brother,
Tom


The Christmas Truce of 1914 has been called  “one human episode amid all the atrocities.”

It is certainly one of the most remarkable incidents of World War I and perhaps of all military history. It has endured as an image of peace for years and years.






Wednesday, November 26, 2014

~ Thanks To Give ~







~  Thanks  To  Give  ~

Friends and family gather
warm embraces joyfully exchanged.


Aroma of toasted spices fill the soul
in symphony of candlelight glow,
as traditions continue
with each passing year -
a beckoning light of homecoming.

Laughter; silent perception;
heartfelt gratitude-
inexpressible.

Nourishment of comfort
replenishes sensations nearly forgotten -
though just a moment in fleeting. . .
once again reunited
within the depths and
every fiber of being.

To everything I give thanks-
to all that has
been bestowed upon my soul from before time.

In this haven, I discover my very being.
~ Lisa May : )

As many of you know - Thanksgiving is my most favorite holiday of the year.
Not only is it the BEST food - EVER ... and the smells are beyond amazing filling every inch of
the air, drifting its way right into your soul ...
but it is also the blessing of gathering at a table of thanks
with family and friends - without having to exchange gifts, as Christmas does.

It is the chance to express one to another your gratitudes
and to feel of each other's as theirs fills your heart as well.

Here's to your best Thanksgiving yet.
May your heart always posses an attitude of gratitude - all year long.













Enjoy these wonderful videos : )
Be sure to watch this one too!!
And of course a beautiful melody!



"We give thanks for unknown blessings already on their way."
~Author Unknown

"To speak gratitude is courteous and pleasant,
to enact gratitude is generous and noble,
but to live gratitude is to touch Heaven."
~Johannes A. Gaertner

:A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue,
but the parent of all the other virtues.
 ~Cicero

"God has two dwellings;
one in heaven,
and the other in a meek and thankful heart."
~Izaak Walton

Monday, November 17, 2014

~ Everything I Needed To Know In Life, I Learned From My Dog! ~


We have a dog named Lucky. We gave him that name when we rescued him from the Humane Society at only 6 weeks old. He is a mixed Yellow Lab and German Shepherd – all white hair, black nose, black lips and deep dark chocolate eyes. His mouth naturally curves up into a long stretched out smile that goes from ear to ear. People are always commenting “hey look, that dog is smiling!” Who would ever have guessed what life’s lessons we’ve learned and are still learning from him?


Every morning without fail, Lucky awakes at 6:00 a.m. As we hustle to and fro, getting kids ready for school, and dad off to work – Lucky lay’s there like a frozen statue on his big fat lumpy pillow. The only proof of life, are his dark chocolate eyes switching back and forth watching our every move, waiting ever so patiently, not saying a word. Anticipating his daily walk with the greatest patience I’ve ever known.

Suddenly his ears perk up with tail thumping, as I open the cupboard door opens to retrieve his treats. Within moments my shoes are laced and jacket is zipped. He looks up at me sitting at full attention as if asking “is it really my turn now?!” All I have to say is, “Let’s go for a walk,” and immediately this sweet big 90 pound, 7 year old full-grown dog turns into an over-excited puppy! My 15 year old son once asked “do you think that Lucky’s walk is like his own heaven on earth?” I must agree, that yes it is. Lucky has also become our own daily private school of life’s important lessons learned.

The instant we’re out the door, discoveries begin as if it’s Lucky’s first time out in the world. From one bush to the other, fence to fence, and any scent picked up - it’s all new to him all over again. No worries about what happened yesterday or the to-do list for today…right there Lucky teaches me to be immersed in joyful contentment of living in the moment. To never take anything for granted, because there’s always something new to discover as long as you’re still alive and breathing.

All along the well-walked trail through the meadow, his friends greet him against chain-linked and wooden fences barking their greetings as they race back and forth. Lucky runs alongside answering back, with his big white fluffy tail wagging in an excited huge clockwise motion. Greetings continue along the trail off the leash with old friends and new ones, showing politeness and a very friendly attitude. He has never started, or been in a fight with another friend. He teaches me to be kind to everyone, no matter the size, color or shape. To always say hello to everyone with a smile from ear-to-ear as you pass by and to never start a fight.

Suddenly, he spots something in the distance and doesn’t just run, but leaps into action! Springing up and down like a deer through the high bushes, he pounces on his target and begins digging at rapid speed using every ounce of energy in his body. By the time I catch up to him, his entire head is completely buried deep inside a squirrel’s hole, and his behind is sticking straight up in the air as he snorts underground to locate the scent. Even though his object isn’t retrieved, he doesn’t give up, until I finally lead him away on to his next adventure. He teaches me to give my all - 100% for something I truly want. And to never stop digging for all the different treasure’s that life holds.

At the end of our trail, is a small creek off the path down into the riverbed of which Lucky can’t wait to run and play in. He instinctively leaves the trail and dives in the water with all he’s got – leaping and plopping the water up into the air to catch it in his mouth. On really hot days, he’ll submerse himself in the shallow running creek and just lay there to cool his body while lapping up his refreshment with pure delight! Lucky has taught me that no matter what, playing in the water like a little child jumping in mud-puddles or catching raindrops in my mouth fills the soul with utter joy; and to always stay young at heart should never be forgotten.

On the trail for home, Lucky continues to explore and discover and pounce and dig and smile and then obey when he needs to come back on the leash for his “treat” – one of the very important words he knows. When we arrive home, Lucky plops himself on his self-destructed couch and takes a nice long nap. Later in the day, he’ll lay out under the sun – flat on his back with paws hanging in the air. Just seeing him in that position makes me laugh, and brings extreme joy to my heart. He truly teaches to enjoy whatever environment and surroundings he is in, to take time out, and sunbathing is one of them!

Suddenly he pops up the instant he hears “his kids” come home. Immediately his black wet nose smears against the glass of the French doors - with ears perked - straining with all his might to see inside. As my son opens the door, he talks to Lucky in their own “language” as he goes outside to sit on the worn-out couch with Lucky sprawled across his lap. They share secrets, the day’s events and unspoken moments, as Lucky truly seems to understand with his eyes exactly what is being shared. The true definition of loyalty.

When my daughter plays the piano, Lucky lays down on the floor in complete relaxation and enjoyment, as evident peace soothes his soul. He has wonderful taste for all genres of music, but mostly appreciates classical - from Mozart, Beethoven to Bach. He teaches us that good music truly calms the soul, and all one has to do is take the time out to listen and enjoy.

Lucky rarely complains. The only time he barks is when he really needs something like food, water re-fill, or just wants to play. He teaches us that when we speak, it should be something of great importance and nothing to complain about.

Whenever someone is sick, hurt, or just having a bad day, Lucky always seems to sense it. He snuggles up to whoever needs the attention and will stay there for as long as it takes. He truly teaches nurturing, comfort and to be aware of those in need. To always be there for them, even if it’s just his body as a big pillow to lay on for some healing time.

There are times when Lucky needs to be disciplined for one thing or another. And the most important lesson he teaches in return is unconditional love. Even after he’s been reprimanded, he doesn’t walk away angry, full of resentment and unforgiveness…he immediately comes back with his face in mine – kissing my cheeks or resting his head on my arm. He endlessly shows love in return to all of us every day – unconditionally, no matter what.

Our sweet dog – Lucky – who we rescued so many years ago, truly makes me believe it is we who have been rescued. He rescues us daily in so many ways – teaching us the most important characteristics in life, namely love. Wet nose and all.

"Wanna go for a walk?!!" ...
: )

Tuesday, November 11, 2014

~ Glorious Fall! ~




"Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it,
and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth
seeking the successive autumns."
- George Eliot

I must agree with George Eliot!!  As a lot of you already know - Fall -Autumn - is my most favorite of all seasons!!  Thus the post dedicated to this "delicious" time of year!

What is it about Fall that captures the heart?  Is it the brilliant warm colors blanketing the earth? 

The cozy feeling of being home with a fire going? All snuggled up with a good movie or a book?
Walking thru crunchy leaves, with a slight breeze blowing - against the most sapphire blue sky that only Fall unveils? Even the different angle of light, casting long shadows upon the porch?
How about the aroma of toasted spices awakening the senses - apple cider - hot cocoa - and baking pumpkin chocolate chip cookies?  : )
Fall has always given me a feeling within the deepest reaches of my soul, of homecoming.  Gatherings.  Harvest.  Candlelight.
Immersed in the "golden hour" for such a small moment of time, before it settles to its slumber. 
Even the birds seem to notice the splendor.
Memories made and those remembered gathered in arms full of colored leaves.

Whatever it is for you, take this fleeting moment of a season and bask in it.  Feel it. 
It's upon your doorstep, welcome it within.
Enjoy this video that expresses fall so perfectly!! 









"Winter is an etching,
spring a watercolor,
summer an oil painting
and autumn a mosaic of them all."
- Stanley Horowitz






"Autumn burned brightly,
a running flame through the mountains,
a torch flung to the trees."
- Faith Baldwin











"Fall -
where heaven's glorious palette
paints earth
with the finger of God."
















"The golden-hour
lives in the yellow leaves of
Fall."














Monday, May 5, 2014

♥ Mothers Day ♥

A long, long time ago ... my mom and me just a few days old ...




'Mothers hold their children's hands for a short while,
but their hearts forever."

A new life -
directly from the hands of
Heaven,
breath of divinity
still lingers
upon virgin skin
wrapped in love against
mothers heart.

Love beyond compare
burst's wide open within
Mothers heart-soul
filled with joy, uncertainty,
responsibility ... Love.

A mother
is wired
within rushing vein and fiber
of God-Love
for such a time as this.
God-Love
to love unconditionally a
brand new being
formed within womb
given from God's hands to
hers.

Mother.
Whispered countless times from lips.
Mother.
She, who is always there.
Always giving.
Always loving.
Mother -
heaven's definition for
Angel.

-Lisa May


In celebration of Mothers Day, I wanted to express my love for my mom! 
She is entirely the definition of mother - hands down. 
She has - and still is - always there for me, and knows me heart and soul. 
She has taught me to stay strong and keep the Faith
walking in all the paths of this journey in my life.  
She is also the BEST grama to my kids!

I am also lucky enough to have another mom ...
my dad's wife LeAnne - who is amazing as well. 
She has taught me the meaning of staying positive
through challenging times with health issues. 
She is full of patience and humor which when the two go hand in hand
makes for an extraordinary person!
She is also a super wonderful grama to my kids
 and has always treated them like her own.

 I am truly blessed to have these two incredible women in my life to love me and to love in return! 
They are truly the best examples anyone could ever have.  

I am including some of my favorite quotes to celebrate all mothers - even those without children. 
Because ALL women are mothers in one way or another.



 "God could not be everywhere, so therefore he created mothers."
~Jewish Proverb

A mother is a person who seeing there are only four pieces of pie for five people, promptly announces she never did care for pie.
~Tenneva Jordan

When you are a mother, you are never really alone in your thoughts. A mother always has to think twice, once for herself and once for her child.
~Sophia Loren

Mother's love is the fuel that enables a normal human being to do the impossible.
~Marion C. Garretty

A mother is a mother still, the holiest thing alive.
~Samuel Taylor Coleridge

All I am, or can be, I owe to my angel mother.
Abraham Lincoln




LeAnne and I

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

~ Re-Birth ~

The season of
Winter
often lingers within spirit ...
Cold.  Dark.  Parched.

Outside world mirrors the same
emotions.
Bone bare branches - ashen, brittle,
hang in sadness ...
death.

















Yet,
within the deep dark soil of earth, and the seemingly
bare branches ... there is
life.
A life hibernating for a season, slowly awakening to
re-birth.

Up close, eyes open - can see embryonic buds of hope on bare branches
that hinted death from afar.











Tiny flowers
color of sun
find their way through gravel - cement - the messy weeds of life,
fulfill yearning to bloom.
Desire to live.



Spring breeze
sounds through trees, like
rushing saving water -
searching parched souls.
























The season of Winter opening into Spring
awakening hibernation,
will once again fill dry thirsty riverbeds with life flowing water.
Blossoms on bare branches
burst
wide open - where before - unseen.

Dark earth below
pushes up emerald green ocean blades
bathing the eyes into forever.







Hibernating soul
awakens,
quenched, alive, Spring again.
Breath. Life.


















In winter.
His spirit
was nurturing all along,
even in the coldest, darkest hours ...
He is there.
Quietly holding, comforting, loving, sustaining.
Gently pushing hibernating self to the surface into
Light of Spring once again.



Re-birth.

Always there.
Patiently waiting for us to
see Him.

Spring always comes.




Wednesday, April 16, 2014

~ He is not here ~

"He is not here: for He is risen, just as He said."
- Matthew 28:6





Beyond bunnies, baskets, eggs, chicks, and all the decorations ... may we all remember the real reason for this Easter celebration.  Teach your children and immerse yourself within the miracle of it.



"He is risen! He is risen!
Tell it out with joyful voice.
He has burst his three days’ prison;
Let the whole wide earth rejoice.
Death is conquered; man is free.
Christ has won the victory."

enjoy this beautiful video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCJtfBR7T9E

Happy Easter! http://mypixingo.com/creator/67245