All posts by Alexandria Sage

Lost in the Details

“Wherever you are, be all there.” ~ Jim Elliot

Life is made of a myriad of moments, a multitude of details. It’s so easy to be overwhelmed with all the big stuff of life that we overlook the fine-tuned details that surround us. I’m sharing a few little details I captured, most of which I walk past everyday.

“The true secret of happiness lies in taking a genuine interest in all the details of daily life.” ~ William Morris

I’m glad these things vie for my attention because they have a way of actually getting it, catching my eye, making me stop … and take a moment.

“After all, it is those who have a deep and real inner life who are best able to deal with the irritating details of outer life.” ~ Evelyn Underhill

“All the details of life and the quirks and the friendships can be laid out for us, but the mystery of their writing remains.No amount of documentation, however fascinating, can take us there.” ~V.S. Naipaul

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Whatever moment you are in today, whether joy or pain—never dismiss the moment, the detail of your very place. When you think about it, the only moment that truly exists is the one you are in right now. So stop and hold onto it for a moment.

Some moments are times to embrace and absorb joy. For the difficult moments we need to receive love from sane, safe friends and family. It’s okay to not always be the giver or to have all the answers or to have everything together.

Cherish the good moments, learn from the difficult. I found the following drawing and thought it details the true reality of life. May it bring a smile to your face as it did mine.

I hope it increases your joy as you trek your own crooked path. 🙂

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“If we take care of the moments, the years will take care of themselves.” ~ Maria Edgeworth

Peace,
Alexandria

This is my contribution to the Photo Challenge theme, “Details”.

7 Comments

by Alexandria Sage on July 20, 2016 • Permalink

Posted in Be Content With Who You Are, Enjoy Life

Tagged enjoy life, photography, Weekly Photo Challenge

Posted by Alexandria Sage on July 20, 2016

https://simplysage.org/2016/07/20/lost-in-the-details/

Of Sunbeams and Rainbows, Look Up!

“Hold out your hands to feel the luxury of the sunbeams.” ~ Helen Keller

“My heart leaps up when I behold a rainbow in the sky.” ~ William Wordsworth

“Friendship is like a rainbow between two hearts.” ~Author unknown
“The beauty of the sunbeam lies partly in the fact that God does not keep it; he gives it away to us all.” ~ David Swing

“A single sunbeam is enough to drive away many shadows.” ~ St. Francis of Assisi

“As on the driving cloud the shiny Bow, that gracious thing made up of tears and light.” ~ Samuel Taylor Coleridge

“In the world’s audience hall, the simple blade of grass sits on the same carpet with the sunbeams, and the stars of midnight.” ~Rabindranath Tagore

“The smiling daughter of the storm.” ~Charles Caleb Colton

“Rainbows apologize for angry skies.” ~Sylvia Voirol

“If you have good thoughts they will shine out of your face like sunbeams and you will always look lovely.” ~ Roald Dahl

“Laughter is a sunbeam of the soul.” ~ Thomas Mann

“And when it rains on your parade, look up rather than down. Without the rain, there would be no rainbow.” ~G.K. Chesterton

“Never has the warm caress of a sunbeam seemed so ominous.” ~ Joel Achenbach

The Photo Challenge theme this week is “Look Up“.

It’s been a very tragic week in these United States of America. As I watch the events my heart breaks for so many, for so much, and especially for my country. It’s easy to be buried in all of this and tempted to think we will never emerge from the stain of racism. But are we really that racist? The extreme rhetoric from both sides that fills the internet would convince us that we are. But those are words. Do we really act that way in real life?

My own community of friends and acquaintances are from different races and countries. We care deeply for and respect each other. We laugh and cry together. We share life together and accomplish wonderful things; like rainbows and sunbeams that split through dust and clouds and rain.

One friend told me the story of how her tire blew the other day. She was alone on the side of the highway and two different people pulled over to help her. One was a Black man. The other Hispanic. She is White. Not one hint about skin color. Just people working together to help someone in need. Sunbeams and rainbows. They are in our very midst everyday. They don’t make the news but their actions are how most of us really are.

I’m glad God sets examples in the sky; sunbeams and rainbows. Neither can happen really well without dust and clouds and rain. Aside from the events of the past week, life is very hard just on its own. It’s tough to work and make a living, to take care of our families, to raise children. Life is filled with a lot of stress—dust, clouds, and rain. The people we rub shoulders with everyday are the rainbows and sunbeams that get us through.

Though my nation is filled with clouds, dust, and storms right now I hope we can look up and find the rainbows and sunbeams that surround us every day, just like my friend did. Just like I do.

We may never make the headlines. But we are a great story.

I hope these photos lift you up from where you are.
And remember, we are all Americans.
Let us love one another.

Peace, Alexandria

6 Comments

by Alexandria Sage on July 11, 2016 • Permalink

Posted in Remember--You Are Loved--No Matter What, Stay Close with Those You Love

Tagged #Dallas, photo essay, Weekly Photo Challenge

Posted by Alexandria Sage on July 11, 2016

https://simplysage.org/2016/07/11/of-sunbeams-and-rainbows-look-up/

Opposite Attraction | Moonstruck

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“Look how the pale queen of the silent night
Doth cause the ocean to attend upon her….” ~Charles Best, “A Sonnet of the Moon”

Light and dark. Opposing forces. Both strong in their own right. Both necessary to our human existence. These opposites are not offended whatsoever when one space invades the other.

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“Moonlight is sculpture.” ~Nathaniel Hawthorne

For nothing shows their contrast best than when they invade the other’s space. They actually flourish together. Both are resplendent in beauty.

They are a remarkable, blinding, spectacular pair.

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“Together, we form a necessary paradox; not a senseless contradiction.” ~ Criss Jami

It is said opposites attract. In nature it seems to be a constant. But our human nature seeks to avoid what is opposite.

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“A man is a very small thing, and the night is very large and full of wonders.” ~Edward Plunkett

Though we can draw many lessons about light and darkness, the opposites in nature serve only to enhance each other. The moon shines brilliant. Stars sweep across the black sky in a breathtaking swash. Yet there is no complaint from the sky as these intruders invade its space.

Why, we humans even invade and see what happens? All so lovely!

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“The night walked down the sky with the moon in her hand.” ~Frederick Knowles

Perhaps we should not fight our opposites whoever they may be. As dark sky “walks down the moon” to merge in a shining display, and we add our playful silhouettes, can we not do the same with each other?

Would we be any less spectacular?

Peace, Alexandria

This is my contribution to the Weekly Photo Challenge with the theme “Opposite”. The theme can be interpreted in so many ways but I chose the contrast of light and dark. For others, click here.
P.S. Apologies if you received this twice. The link didn’t work on the first one. I think it’s fixed on this one. 🙂

13 Comments

by Alexandria Sage on July 5, 2016 • Permalink

Posted in Enjoy Life

Tagged night photography, photo essay, Weekly Photo Challenge

Posted by Alexandria Sage on July 5, 2016

https://simplysage.org/2016/07/05/opposite-attraction-moonstruck/

Curve Around the World

FullMoon

“There is something particularly special and personal about the circle and how its curves comfortable rule every aspect of our lives.” ~ Kat Kahr, Parallelism of Cyclicality

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In choosing photos for this week’s photo challenge with the theme “Curve” I’m featuring some favorites from the past. They include photos by Dan Pope, Stephanie Goddard, Stephen Deal, and yours truly. I’d appreciate if you’d explore the links. It helps me as I test my new .live domain.
Thanks and do EnJoy. 🙂
Alexandria

Be Thou the Rainbow
“Be thou the rainbow in the storms of life. The evening beam that smiles the clouds away, and tints tomorrow with prophetic ray.” ~ Lord Byron

The Master Speaks
“A chief event of life is the day in which we have encountered a mind that startled us.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

LoveSong
“Love moves in sync with the cadence of forgiveness, sings in tune with the melody of acceptance, and dances in rhythm with the music of companionship.” ~ Steve Maraboli

Friendship Formulae
“To get the full value of joy you must find someone to divide it with.” ~ Mark Twain

The Beauty of a True Friend
“You have been my friend. That in itself is a tremendous thing. I wove my webs for you because I liked you. After all, what’s a life, anyway? We’re born, we live a little while, we die. A spider’s life can’t help being something of a mess, with all this trapping and eating flies. By helping you, perhaps I was trying to lift up my life a trifle. Heaven knows anyone’s life can stand a little of that.” ~ Charlotte, Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

LifeLines
“Life forms illogical patterns. It is haphazard and full of beauties which I try to catch as they fly by, for who knows whether any of them will ever return?” ~ Margot Fonteyn

13 Comments

by Alexandria Sage on June 20, 2016 • Permalink

Posted in Enjoy Life

Tagged inspirational quotes, photography, Weekly Photo Challenge

Posted by Alexandria Sage on June 20, 2016

https://simplysage.org/2016/06/20/through-the-years-curve-around-the-world/

Purely Summer

Purified

With summer in full swing here, I’m going to change things up a bit. Increased family demands and just loving the outdoors has nudged out any time for writing so I’m taking a break from it this summer.

Evening Blush

But with the camera as a welcome part of the demands I’ll be sharing more photos.

Arrival of Morn

I’m trying to take part in the Weekly Photo Challenge hosted by WordPress, my blog platform. But I hope to share in-between as well. The writing will be brief, three-hundred words or less. After all, I’m sure you have plenty of other summer reading to do!

Fire over Water

For this week’s Challenge, the theme is “Pure“. My mind went several directions until I finally settled on some photos of the ocean. Since the beach is my “go-to” place to purify my heart, I thought I’d share some favorites. Be sure to turn your device to landscape to capture the full purity of the views. Makes a difference! 😊

Zoom for a closer look. Turn phone to side

Dawn. Crisp, Clear. Pure. Zoom in to see a crescent moon. Stunning!

Storm over Water

Then there’s the storms and artistry of clouds. So settling. Cleansing!

Wind over Water

The breezes gently sweep and scatter all the busyness that inhabits my mind. It clears the clutter and tidies up my heart and with renewed clarity, I can focus on what’s really important.

Pure Morning

I am swept clean! Purified!

I hope you’ll enjoy my upcoming summer “short series”.

Let’s have some summer fun!

But most of all, have a fun summer! 🙂

More soon,
Alexandria

P.S. SimplySage is in transition. It’s gone from simplysage.org to simplysage.me to simplysage.live. It takes several weeks for search engines to re-index my site so I’m kind of lost in internet space right now. The .me and .org do not work.
I’ll spare all the reasons. If I explain I’ll go way beyond three-hundred words! 🙂

For other interpretation of “Pure”, click here.

12 Comments

by Alexandria Sage on June 13, 2016 • Permalink

Posted in Enjoy Life

Tagged enjoy life, joy, photo essay, photography, summer fun, Weekly Photo Challenge

Posted by Alexandria Sage on June 13, 2016

https://simplysage.org/2016/06/13/beach-photos/

Jubilant Community

The Weekly Photo Challenge theme this week is “Jubilant“. I’m sharing the abundant flowering of a clematis I bought three years ago at WalMart. In its first year it had less than five blooms.

Thinking it wasn’t feeling too much at home here, I nestled it among good things; roses, lilies, shrubs. I gave it the proper light and good old-fashioned fertilizer. And I remained … waiting.

In gardening of any kind there is so much waiting!

In its second summer it was just a scraggly green bush. Cute. But so shy! And so I waited another year.

And it finally opened up!

And blossomed unimaginable!

No more shyness. No more hesitation.

In fact, as the quote says, it is a perpetual astonishment. We are nearing June and it’s full of buds.

The vine is branching out beyond. But it’s still connected to home. Through the wind and rain it’s held tight.

It’s all become its own little community. The vine gently weaves a pattern with the flowers. Together they reside. Yet the tender flowers are never destroyed. Nor is the vine ever suffocated by the broad, expansive flower.

Look how they cling to each other as good friends. Neighbors. Caring for, looking out for each other. And the seed pods are so abundant that next year I’ll need to add another trellis. This community is growing! Good neighbors do that.

Good neighbors promote growth. And speaking of neighbors …

What ever happened to being a good neighbor? Watching out for, protecting, sharing, loving, being kind?

Different, but dwelling together?

Whatever happened to “community”? Real community. Real people rubbing shoulders with real people. In the earlier photo, the clematis is neighbors with the lilies, roses, and shrubs. All different. But look how beautiful together.

Today there are all these “online communities” and believe me, I’m all for them.

But sometimes I wonder if we’ve forgotten how to be with real people. We sit in our temperature-controlled environment and pluck away on the keyboard or our smartphones and call it community.

And another thing I see as I scroll through social media is how easily it is to be unkind. Words filled with so much venom. I wonder would they be that way if they were face-to-face?

Somehow, I think not.

There’s an abundance of words and opinions nowadays. And I am definitely a free-speech warrior. But imagine the human—the actual real live person. Think about your words before you type. And work toward a jubilant display such as this. Nurturing beyond just existence. Nurturing to grow.

Good neighbors.

Can we not do this? Whether online or in person, is it so hard to do?

Peace, Alexandria

15 Comments

by Alexandria Sage on May 26, 2016 • Permalink

Posted in Stay Close with Those You Love

Tagged flower photography, photo essay, photography, Weekly Photo Challenge

Posted by Alexandria Sage on May 26, 2016

https://simplysage.org/2016/05/26/jubilant-community/

The Time is Now!

As we celebrate another Christmas, memories of the past are a common thread woven through our countless conversations. We truly are wired to dwell on the past or dream about the future, aren’t we? The photo challenge this week prompts us to think of the “now”, the present. And so I thought I’d share a sweet moment I quickly captured.

After being fenced off from the gifts for an entire week, it was finally time! Now! The blockade was removed and my littlest grandson scurried a quick path straight to a different kind of “present”!

I hope you enjoy your “present”. And your presents, too!

And finally, may another kind of “present” fill your life.

The presence of Jesus Christ—Emmanuel, which means “God with us.”

Present.

Remember, His time is always “now“.

Peace and Merry Christmas!
Alexandria

4 Comments

by Alexandria Sage on December 27, 2015 • Permalink

Posted in Devotionals

Tagged Children, Christianity, Christmas, Christmas reflections for kids, enjoy life, spirituality, the time is now, Weekly Photo Challenge

Posted by Alexandria Sage on December 27, 2015

https://simplysage.org/2015/12/27/the-time-is-now/

WRITTEN IN THE SKY – Dec. 24

Once in awhile I come across post that just immerses my attention. And the post below is a reblog of exactly one of those.

Completely fascinating! It’s a topic glossed over in numerous Christmas themes, songs, and carols. It’s form sits atop most of our Christmas trees, yet it’s logic defies all knowledge. And it’s wonder even escapes the most astute true Christian believers.

Skeptics may begin to consider a truth that transcends beyond their usual logical conclusions. And true believers will be filled with an even greater faith in the miracle we call in this modern day, “Christmas”.

I hope you take the time to read this very short post, even watch The Star of Bethlehem video. (It’s currently available via YouTube.)

Enjoy the magnificence!
Peace, Alexandria

A DEVOTED LIFE

“saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” Matthew 2:2

I love art.
I am a fan, not an expert.

As a fan, I can appreciate the beautiful; marvel at mastery; admire creativity; absorb emotion. However, the artist’s meaning is often lost in mere fandom. An artist’s message often flies over my engineering oriented head as I just appreciate the exhibition.

I am greatly assisted by the art experts who explain the symbolism crafted into a piece. I love the pure joy in reading a work of literature for entertainment. I also love the delightful astonishment from the revelation of a carefully crafted message imbedded in a work of which I was oblivious.

I often appreciate art in its various forms and know that I am missing a deeper meaning.

This is…

View original post 750 more words

Change, Certain as the Seasons | Weekly Photo Challenge: Transition

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And so we are deep into Autumn— glittering, majestic autumn. And as I ponder nature’s stunning finish, it’s that time where I do some real hard thinking about the past year. The transition is so rapid from day-to-day that if you wait you’ll miss that particular color or hue. And as fall dozes into winter I think about my soul; how the seasons mirror my own rhythm. The time for reflection is upon me.
Autumn.

Fall Dozes

And then winter.

Winter Sleeps

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As nature curls into hibernation, it seems I do the same. The transition into winter begins here with the holidays.

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But once the tree and tinsel are down and tucked away, so am I. Oh, there’s plenty of work to do; my home, family, and job. But with no deadlines or travel my soul goes into a hibernation of sorts; rest. Just pure, glorious rest.

Right now I live in a place where seasons change. I lived in the American desert southwest for a brief period. Though it possesses an outrageous and incredible beauty, I missed the changing seasons. Once you get used to those rhythms your soul ever longs for them. We’re always ready for them, aren’t we?

Spring Sings!

But there’s something else about the seasons that fills me with something bittersweet. Because with those rhythms comes the certainty of change. And I don’t like change. I wish everything to stay as is. But “there is a time for each matter under heaven” and I know God has his hand in every aspect of my life—blessings and difficulties. Difficult times will come, but there are many good things surrounding me, too.

Oh, life–the blend of trial and blessing, seasons filled with change. Remembrance of last year fills me now with warm nostalgia. Things have changed this year and some changes I don’t like, but some I do.

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Summer Shouts!

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As I look at my sweet grandsons I wish so hard they would stay children. But they won’t.

As I relish their moments of childlike delight I wonder, will they have this much fun next year? I cling a little tighter to these moments and to them, all the while knowing they both slip from my grasp.

Why do I resist change when I know change is certain? Why does change fill a corner of my heart with an unsettling angst? I cry against it to no avail and it comes anyway. Why can’t I be like nature, welcoming with open arms, and just settle into it quite nicely, ready for the next? Yes, change is certain.

But there is a certainty of which I’m glad there is no change.

“I the Lord do not change.” ~ Malachi 3:6

First Voice

Though God set into motion seasons of glorious nature, he exempted himself from change. This truth abides. This is the certainty I most need. I need his constant grace, mercy, and forgiveness. And he gives all. His love and mercy are the same—when we fall, when we stand. His hand is ever there to walk us through storms or meadows.

Within the unexpected turns of life He knew we needed–I need–a constant something.

Or rather—Someone.

And I’ve never been out of His hand.

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” ~ Ecclesiastes 3:1

“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” ~ Lamentations 3:22-23

This is my interpretation for the Weekly Photo Challenge with the theme “Transition”. I hope you enjoy. 🙂
Peace, Alexandria

1 Comment

by Alexandria Sage on November 29, 2015 • Permalink

Posted in Devotionals

Tagged autumn, autumn reflections, Christian devotionals, Christianity, God, photo essay, photography, reflections

Posted by Alexandria Sage on November 29, 2015

https://simplysage.org/2015/11/29/change-certain-as-the-seasons-weekly-photo-challenge-transition/

Best Buds |Weekly Photo Challenge: My Happy Place

When I saw the photo challenge titled “Happy Place” the words that immediately came to mind were “travel destinations”—places that invoke that glorious feeling of combined rest and joy, one definition known as “happiness”. I thought of places I’ve been (North Myrtle Beach).

or places I’ve dreamed of going (Moorea).

When I went to Acadia National Park (above) I thought, “Oh, now this it. This is the ultimate, the place to unwind, to get away.” I was happy!

However, travel can bring its own stresses, as we all know. The planning, packing, and getting to-and-from can be tiring. You’ve heard people say, “I need a vacation from my vacation!” 🙂

It can feel like chasing the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow,

or trying to truly capture the presence and majesty of another breathtaking moonrise,

or that ever elusive butterfly.

But when you’re in immediate and desperate need of joy, finding a happy place cannot always be found by thumbing through travel guides for yet another trip or even dreaming of those places.

It’s times like that I totally forget a happy place that lives right out my front porch. Most of the time I find I’m looking beyond it, rushing past it toward some goal, the “next thing”, that place called “when I finally get there, I will be happy!”

I forget the happy place staring straight at me. It’s a place where they’re straining their necks to grab me, to get my attention, to make me stop in my haste to happiness and see that they are what I really need;

that they live, they thrive, they exist to make me happy! (I’m convinced they serve no other purpose.) They are my never-ending friends, through every season, through every joy, through every sorrow. They are constant and oh, how I take them for granted!

They remind me that we both endure some thorny paths and sticky situations,

that I’m not the only one out there feeling so alone,

drowning in life’s demands,

and kind of hanging by a thread,

or in need of a hug;

that while we pass each other everyday in the coming and going, we can still rise and hold our head high, together, and shine in the sun!

You see, when you have best buds you can find happiness no matter where, no matter what. 🙂

I write this in honor of my friends and family, my “best buds”. Thank you for being just a phone call away. I always miss you.

Peace, Alexandria

2 Comments

by Alexandria Sage on October 21, 2015 • Permalink

Posted in Be Content With Who You Are, Enjoy Life, Remember--You Are Loved--No Matter What, Stay Close with Those You Love, Weekly Photo Challenge

Tagged flower photography, joy, love, photo essay, photography, relationships

Posted by Alexandria Sage on October 21, 2015

https://simplysage.org/2015/10/21/best-bud-my-happy-place/

These Are a Few of My Favorite Grids | Weekly Photo Challenge: Grid

Relaxing in the screen grid

As I looked at the Challenge this week with “Grid” as the theme, I perused through my pictures. And it was amazing to me how much of my everyday life is filled with design.

Grid bench, where I enjoy my favorite flower.

Be it work, home, or play I’m constantly living life in a myriad of grids. Why, I glance at my desk right now and it’s filled with cubbies of lovely baskets and throws and it’s grids bring warmth, reminding me of my favorite things. And so, I thought I’d share a few with you.

Rust-colored trees border a grid fence. Barren beauty. (Sometimes I feel like that. Sigh …)

I think deep within all of us there is a hunger for design, composition, and order. Perhaps it’s because so much of life is unpredictable and seems out of control. But then we’ll see something beautiful. And we’ll snap a picture.

Inhale the forest through the grid. Ahhh….

Everyday we’ll snap pictures of moments. And they become a small piece of peace to latch onto and it all nourishes our soul, doesn’t it?

Grid grill. Yum! One of my favorites!

Perhaps they remind us that in that very photo we destined order in our chaotic world.

Light within the grid … shine for me, please.

Our eyes searched for and found the grid. We put composition where it was not.

Clean ovens

The grid shines through. (Sigh … it’s that time again!)

We found design in small things. Like a clean oven. 🙂

Friendly ferns love the grid, too! Grids make a space for everyone, especially friendly ferns!

I don’t know about you but all of these pictures make me smile. I brought a piece of order and composition to my own chaotic world.

My favorite beach grid. Yes, here I come!

And they make me happy. Very happy!

A grid to play with bugs. Fun!

And isn’t happiness what we’re all searching for?

Revived skill behind a grid. Pleased. Very pleased.

So, as you go about your day, look around.

Singing in front of the grid. Inspirational!

Find the grid. Snap the picture. Tell your story. But tell it to yourself first.

Mmm … yes, lock me behind this grid forever!!

Then sit back and smile. And be happy!

Let this grid warmth fill me all year long! It’s coming soon!

For happiness abounds! 🙂

Peace,
Alexandria

For more entries for the Weekly Photo Challenge with the “grid” theme click here. Have a great week!

8 Comments

by Alexandria Sage on September 21, 2015 • Permalink

Posted in Enjoy Life, Take Care of Yourselves - Body and Spirit

Tagged finding happiness, nature photography, peace, photo essay, photography, Weekly Photo Challenge

Posted by Alexandria Sage on September 21, 2015

https://simplysage.org/2015/09/21/these-are-a-few-of-my-favorite-grids-weekly-photo-challenge-grid/

Hydrangea Joy | Weekly Photo Challenge: Vivid

Vivid

Grand

Generous

Abundant

Joy-giving

Smile-maker

Favorite flower

Enjoy!

Peace,
Alexandria

10 Comments

by Alexandria Sage on June 9, 2015 • Permalink

Posted in Enjoy Life

Tagged flower photography, photo essay, photography, poetry, Weekly Photo Challenge

Posted by Alexandria Sage on June 9, 2015

https://simplysage.org/2015/06/09/hydrangea-joy-weekly-photo-challenge-vivid/

Fragile, Handle With Care | Weekly Photo Challenge: Broken

“Words and hearts should be handled with care, for words misspoken and hearts when broken are the hardest things to repair.” ~ Unknown

Ever do this? Say something then feel the immediate twinge of regret? You wish, how you wish, you could somehow take them back. But they stick like glue. Sometimes they are just casual, oh so casual, “I didn’t really mean it.”

We utter them right off the top of our head, just because we need to talk–oh, how we need to talk, to say something—oh, how we always need to be saying something.

Sometimes they are tinged with hints of sarcasm—just enough hint to hurt.

Sometimes we lash out in anger. And that’s the worst kind—so far from kind.

And then there’s the so unkind kind that cuts … deep, sometimes scarring to permanence—like a car that’s been wrecked and declared totaled. Total damage.

If we would but look into the eyes, we would see the heart of each.

But no, we shrug away, whispering, “So what.”

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Our culture actually takes pride in telling someone off. We hang on to the brash words of reality television and celebrate the celebrity spewing trash-talk. Bullying is a problem among our children. It’s like we celebrate hate.

What have we become?

Yes, conflict is part and parcel of life. But my mother used to say “Fight nice.” The word hate was so repulsed it was never allowed in our home, under any circumstances. Not even an “I hate brocolli!” was permitted.

Words can build or destroy. Choose them wisely—choose to soothe, heal, protect, build.

Why not declare to say, today, words tinged with, dare I say, … love?

And if you have nothing to say, it’s perfectly okay to just say nothing.

“Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent.” ~Proverbs 17:28a

Spent, or Well-Spent?

“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.” ~Plato

This is my contribution to the Weekly Photo Challenge with the theme “Broken”. I chose to use the theme in the context of “words”, which can break and shatter as powerfully as they build and heal.

Our modern world is filled with an abundance of them. Sometimes even one sentence can wreak a force as destructive as a volcanic eruption. (Think Twitter with its mere 160 characters. It packs a powerful punch, doesn’t it?)

Our WordPress community continues to be a safe haven for words, a place where thoughtful expression is wrapped in respect for everyone. I’ve found it to be thus far, and I hope it continues.

“Let your speech be always with grace.” ~Colossians 4:6a

Peace,
Alexandria

For other interpretations of the Broken Challenge, I hope you’ll take some time and visit here. You’ll enjoy the endless creativity of WordPress photographers, both amateur and professional. Enjoy! 🙂

13 Comments

by Alexandria Sage on May 26, 2015 • Permalink

Posted in Remember--You Are Loved--No Matter What

Tagged flower photography, inspirational quotes, photo essay, photography, thoughts, Visual Poetry, Weekly Photo Challenge

Posted by Alexandria Sage on May 26, 2015

https://simplysage.org/2015/05/26/fragile-handle-with-care-weekly-photo-challenge-broken/

Stormscapes | Weekly Photo Challenge: Forces of Nature

Was once a time when we were young,
Our starts were quick, our limbs grew strong.
We hung together filled with glee,
Flexing bough with gust or breeze.
Sheltered safe from ocean’s roar,
We dwelt far from its shore.

And then one day out from the sky,
From whence it came the ocean’s cry.
The breeze grew gust and gust grew strong,
From gentle breeze to thund’rous roar,
Caught off guard our branches soared.

Soared and stretched
and ripped and retched,
Snapped and torn and yanked from ground,
Some carried away, never to be found.

We tried to keep our footing firm,
Desperation, terror churned.
Our roots clenched tight with every turn.

Huddled with our branches tight,

We clung to each other for dear life.

Then suddenly quiet, it was gone,
Swift it came and it moved on.

And in that instant we were changed,
Youth was stripped, innocence ravaged.

Destruction looming large surround,
Our hearts were crushed, pieces on the ground.

But we rose proud, starting small
And once again we grew tall.
Most of us grew scarred and bent.
A few of us grew quite grotesque.

And those that clung with locked embrace
Grew woven, as wounds would not erase.

Thirty years have come and gone,
Remnants borne from that great storm.

But God in His great grace adorns
our scars, and places some would see
are hid by seasons’ finery.

And winter bears a rarity,

For now we do curve gracefully!

This is my contribution to the Weekly Photo Challenge with the theme of Forces of Nature. The forces of nature surround us. They can inspire or they can devastate. But always there is purpose, re-creation, re-growth.

Look at these trees that endured a horrific storm. What about the storms in our lives? Surrounded with so many vivid reminders to—stay the storm, stand together, lean on one another, hold one another—why is it so hard for us?

These trees and other forces of nature find a means of survival through one another, and by it, find healing. Should we do any less?

Peace,
Alexandria

14 Comments

by Alexandria Sage on May 10, 2015 • Permalink

Posted in Alexandria Sage Poetry

Tagged Forces of Nature, nature photography, poetry, relationships, tree metaphors, Weekly Photo Challenge

Posted by Alexandria Sage on May 10, 2015

https://simplysage.org/2015/05/10/stormscapes-weekly-photo-challenge-forces-of-nature/

Locomotion| Weekly Photo Challenge: Motion

Motion

Commotion

Locomotion

“There is nothing more beautiful than seeing a person being themselves. Imagine going through your day being unapologetically you.” ~ Steve Maraboli

This is my contribution to the Weekly Photo Challenge theme of Motion. As you can see, a child is a perfect picture of never-ending motion … and locomotion … and commotion! All wrapped up into one!
EnJoy!
Alexandria

5 Comments

by Alexandria Sage on April 26, 2015 • Permalink

Posted in Enjoy Life, Just For Fun

Tagged Children, family, fun, inspirational quotes, joy, photo essay

Posted by Alexandria Sage on April 26, 2015

https://simplysage.org/2015/04/26/locomotion-weekly-photo-challenge-motion/

Fire and Ice | Weekly Photo Challenge: Early Bird

It was back in January and I am up before dawn, carving a wondrous niche of solitude for myself at the early bird hours.

And it’s January. Frigid and dark. And so begins my worst time of the year. Curled up in my fluffy robe, I hug a steaming cup of coffee. In the clutches of deep suffering, my heart is a solidified mass of stone. (See Reward’s of Winter)

But suddenly out of the darkness, a glint catches my eye. I peer out the window and there it was.

There it was, all melting the chill that seeped into every crevice of my stone-cold heart.

A purple haze of light rises. Oh January, why beckon me! Why taunt me! I’m all cozy and wrapped up tight! Just like my heart! Wrapped up tight these days! The last thing on my mind is taking pictures! You know I don’t like you anyway! Oh January!

Beautiful and brilliant it was! All fiery and cold. Stepping onto the porch I press my nose against the ice cold screen.

The holidays are a mere memory. Blah, bleak days are here. Days that drag on … and on … and on. But here comes January, showing off.

And here I go, throwing a down coat over my robe and running out the door with only an iPhone. Oh January, I know you’ll run from me if I don’t get out there! And YOU, only YOU could do this to me! But anyway, you got me out here. Now show me what you’ve got!

And so, January delivered–an early show filled with purple’s and magenta’s, lights and darks, glaring and glinting off bare branched trees and surly cloud covers.

Fire and ice mingle and I’m in near tears over it. Oh January, perhaps the reason I don’t like you is because I am so much like you.

Fire and ice.

Stubborn. Determined. Self-centered. Show off. Oh, look at you, January, you show-off!

Cold. Rude. Impatient. Angry, a fire-brimming volcano. (I’m not proud of that.)

And so loud sometimes! Stop it, January!

But alas, I see you are all of those things and none of those things. For what I’ve come to realize is you are just filled with … passion. You come on so strong because of your complexity.

You are passionate about life, love, passionate about everything.

All fire and ice.

You’re so, so … so …
human.

Human … just like me.

Why would I ever treat you with such disdain? Oh, January, I’m so sorry. Come near, my friend. Every year come near, and keep me company.

You’re so beautiful.

This is my response to the Weekly Photo Challenge theme of Early Bird, in which we were challenged to get up early and explore the morning light. As usual, nature’s visual’s carry my mind to the endless lessons I learn about life. I hope you enjoy.
Peace, Alexandria

10 Comments

by Alexandria Sage on April 24, 2015 • Permalink

Posted in Enjoy Life, Stay Close with Those You Love

Tagged friendship, photo essay, relationships, sunrise photography, Weekly Photo Challenge

Posted by Alexandria Sage on April 24, 2015

https://simplysage.org/2015/04/24/fire-and-ice-weekly-photo-challenge-early-bird/

If These Walls Could Speak | Weekly Photo Challenge: Wall

If these old walls,
If these old walls could speak
Of things that they remember well,
Stories and faces dearly held,
A couple in love
Livin’ week to week,
Rooms full of laughter,
If these walls could speak.

If these old halls,
Hallowed halls could talk,
These would have a tale to tell
Of sun goin’ down and dinner bell,

And children playing at hide and seek
From floor to rafter,
If these halls could speak.

They would tell you that I’m sorry
For bein’ cold and blind and weak.
They would tell you that it’s only
That I have a stubborn streak,
If these walls could speak.

If these old fashioned window panes were eyes,
I guess they would have seen it all –
Each little tear and sigh and footfall,

And every dream that we came to seek
Or followed after,
If these walls could speak.

They would tell you that I owe you
More than I could ever pay.
Here’s someone who really loves you;
Don’t ever go away.
That’s what these walls would say.
That’s what these walls would say.

Lyrics by Jimmy Webb, sung by Amy Grant

This is my contribution to the Weekly Photo Challenge with a theme of “Wall”. My son took photos of this plantation near our house. It is owned by a family who chose to keep their ancestral home for sentimental reasons. The grounds are kept up but the house and buildings are gradually dilapidating. There’s a poignant sadness to see such a grand home now stand in silence when once it was filled with life. I think the song lyrics say it all.

For more creative “Wall” Interpretations click here.

12 Comments

by Alexandria Sage on March 15, 2015 • Permalink

Posted in Stay Close with Those You Love

Tagged Amy Grant, Amy Grant If These Walls Could Speak, Children, family, photo essay, Weekly Photo Challenge

Posted by Alexandria Sage on March 15, 2015

https://simplysage.org/2015/03/15/if-these-walls-could-speak/

You Are My Sunshine | Weekly Photo Challenge: Orange

“Some think love can be measured by the amount of butterflies in their tummy. Others think love can be measured in bunches of flowers, or by using the words ‘for ever.’ But love can only truly be measured by actions. It can be a small thing, such as peeling an orange for a person you love because you know they don’t like doing it.” ~ Marian Keyes

A paintbrush swathed in shades of orange,
Lavished sky with broad, bold strokes.

A space of gold,
A slice of time,

We breathe,
and lose breath

at the marvel of such artistry.
No words.

Just time,
… beauty,
…. peace
….. and love.

This is my response to the Weekly Photo Challenge with the theme “Orange”. Click here to see all the other “Orange” creativity.
Here’s a few of the many others I liked:
Say It With a Camera
Don’t Throw Away That Orange Peel
Travels and Trifles: Orange: Last, But Not Least
EnJoy!
Alexandria

11 Comments

by Alexandria Sage on March 13, 2015 • Permalink

Posted in Simply Poems

Tagged Art, beauty, love, photo essay, poetry, Weekly Photo Challenge, you are my sunshine

Posted by Alexandria Sage on March 13, 2015

https://simplysage.org/2015/03/13/you-are-my-sunshine-weekly-photo-challenge-orange/

Reward’s of Winter

It’s no secret that I suffer through January and February.

Bleak skies, sleet, snow. Daily news intakes of major regions buried in snow and ice. Makes me thankful that it’s a rarity here.

But we still get our share of these elements to halt traffic, down power lines, and interfere with even the most mundane aspects of life, like walking the dog or getting the mail.

A little slip can put you quickly out of commission, not including the countless minutes of time-after-time of swaddling in coats, boots, and gloves to scurry our furry friends out for their repeated rituals!

Since I commute nearly an hour to work, added preparation is a must and I keep an overnight bag ready for everything. Rainboots, snowboots, thermals, down coat, raincoat, snacks, water! Brrrr…..Grrrr!!!

Like I said, I suffer.

But lest I lead you astray with the title of this write and leave you wondering how I could find any reward of winter, interspersed in all this dreariness are glimpses so dreadfully beautiful I could cry.

Nature is alive. Alive with anomalies to abate my suffering soul.

To thaw my freezing whine of heart and melt it into a wine of gladness.

Nature is complete and utterly at peace with itself during this chilling time,

And makes beauty in ways unimaginable, unexpected, and unexplainable.

I think of our nation a century ago and all the strenuous winter preparations that were commonplace day in and day out. They were absolute necessities as our ancestors faced these elements head on. My mere preparations pale in comparison.

Here I sit and gaze out my window, blanketed in the modern conveniences of heat, indoor plumbing, hot water at every tap, an insulated home with insulated windows, even a back-up generator … just in case.

And I think I’m suffering.

How trite. How miniscule.

Thank you, O Creator, for showing me otherwise.

Oh yes, and lest I leave out one more reward of winter, here he is! Grandson number two. Born right in the middle of cold February. It didn’t snow or ice during his birth. But if it had, well there’s the four-wheel-drive.

Like I said, I really suffer! 😉
Peace, Alexandria

2 Comments

by Alexandria Sage on March 8, 2015 • Permalink

Posted in Enjoy Life

Tagged Children, enjoy life, family, photo essay, photography, thoughts, Weekly Photo Challenge, winter thoughts

Posted by Alexandria Sage on March 8, 2015

https://simplysage.org/2015/03/08/rewards-of-winter/

Dressed in snow

Hello my friends,
February found me in quite perplexing predicaments. This is a good news, bad news, good news post. First the good news: the arrival a new grandson. 😊

Next the bad news: the massive attack on my body of a flu, the likes of which I never knew existed! At least twice I thought I would be added to the statistics of those who did not survive. For real.

But I’m now into my second week of recovery, antibiotics and such. Yes, I was the wonderful recipient of all that follow-up respiratory gunk, the details of which I will spare.

But I finally turned the corner. Hence, good news again. Yes!
I look forward to holding that sweet grand soon! (And helping my tired daughter!) Many thanks to Daddy and all the friends and other family who stepped in to help! And kept me brimming with homemade soups!

I finally emerged from the quarantine and returned to a post in progress but it’s still simmering on the back-burner (i.e. not done).

In the meantime, since blog reading is such wonderful company during convalescence, I couldn’t help but share Julia’s post about snowmen. The whimsical snowmen pictures brought laughter and a huge smile. Great medicine for me! I think you’ll agree! Her blog is called “Defeat Despair“.
EnJoy!

And I’ll be back soon! Alexandria