All posts in category Enjoy Life

Legacy of Joy

Sony Cyber-Shot. Self-portrait in front of a mirror. {Ok, WordPress, I’m trying.}

My dear readers,

WordPress asked all bloggers to write a post about what inspires us to blog. They wanted photos of us doing those activities. At first I was hesitant. I am far more comfortable behind a camera than in front of it. The other hesitation is my wish to maintain a measure of privacy. I confess the global world of blogging still intimidates me. But I will do my best to strike a balance with both.

WordPress encourages us to write and click. To write about EVERYTHING. To take pictures of EVERYTHING. I’m not a great writer but I love words in the form of quotes, with a dab of writing here and there. I love words that resonate healing, words that echo affirmation in the soul, words that bring joy.

I add photography and sometimes if I get lucky the pictures seem to coordinate with the quotes. Total creative fun.

Capturing another glorious sunset using the amazing iPhone camera. HDR settings, of course.

Capturing another glorious sunset with an iPhone.

Why do I blog? The biggest reason is my family—past, present, and future. And second, the multitude of friends throughout the years that have enriched my life, which now include you. I’m inspired by what makes me smile, that gives me a break in this hectic wild ride we call life and just inhale some gladness. I share to decrease sadness and increase joy … for everyone.

In addition, I hope to preserve a place that leaves words and pictures of my faith, footsteps, philosophy, and focus. WordPress says don’t hold back. But if I didn’t this would be a book. So here goes—in the most succinct I can be.

My mom and dad, both in heaven. Dad—the kindest, most generous man on the planet. Mom—organized, thrifty, clean. Together they gave me the best upbringing one could imagine. I miss them terribly. They were taken so soon. This blog honors their memory.

Wedding of my parents.

My parent’s wedding

My sweet grandmother. You lived two doors down from me. How could I ever forget the overnights and morning tea? Jumping on your bed and nighttime prayers? Your fluffy, down pillows? Your gift of sewing. You designed and made all the bridesmaid and flower girl dresses in the photo above. My family says I’m so much like you and I think that’s pretty cool.

My siblings. Amid the rivalry we emerged strong and united to this day. If I needed you at my side today, you would be there. {Dear brother, I’ll never forget when you drove cross-country to bring my Christmas presents.} In losing our parents so soon maybe we don’t take for granted the gift of each other.

Me peeking around for some candid shots at a family event. {Nikon D60 DSLR}

My husband. Wise, smart, funny, kind, philosopher, wizard. You give to everyone the most prized of possessions—your time. Cares for and watches over me with tenderness, patience, and love. Comes to my rescue for everything. Pulls over at a moment’s notice to let me capture another exquisite never-to-be-seen shot. Keeps my gas tank full. So much like my dad.

DSCF1993

Taking me up the hill the easy way, after a long sled ride down.

My children. Joy beyond belief. Each finding your way. Each blessed with kind and generous hearts. I know without a doubt that whatever path you choose, it will be done with the highest integrity. Where do I even begin?

A summer job for oldest daughter. She loved it {farm girl}

A summer job for oldest daughter. {Farm girl}

My grandson—I delight in this crazy notion called “grandparent love”. It is wondrous and enchanting. He is a ray of sunshine in my life.

The grand having a grand time in the mud.

The grand having a grand time in the mud.

My life-long faraway friends. Glenda, Debbie, Janna, Mary Beth, Peggy, Nancy, Lisa. We just pick up from where we left off.

P

Morning coffee on the back porch with a friend

My near friends. When I moved here you soothed my homesickness and the pain in losing my mother shortly after my arrival. We share the deepest parts of our lives, the heartaches and joys. You know who you are and I love the richness and trust we share.

My very shy friend. Yes, she's under there!

My very shy friend. Yes, she’s under the umbrella!

The day job. I work with exceptionally talented people in a very narrow field of medicine. I was stretched to learn a most demanding skill and with tenacity and a lot of prayer I did. And I get to do some really neat stuff that cares for very sick patients. Witnessed a few miracles, too. Every time I walk across the parking lot to begin my day I thank God for my legs and that I get to do what I do. At the end of the day I get to leave and go home. Those who are sick have to stay and wish they could go home.

Steve's stuff. He taught me how to use these—not easy.

Stuff I use at the Day Job—not easy to learn.

God. Sunrises, sunsets, flowers, nature bursting forth with color, light, and wonder. Majestic painter and creator you are. You are a very present help in time of need. Your Word, living and powerful, sharper than any two-edged sword guides me. Apart from you I can do nothing.

Winter sunset out my backdoor. Hand painted by God. Incredible.

Winter sunset out my backdoor. Hand painted by God. Incredible.

And this is just the introduction to my inspiration for the wonderful world of blogging. It’s a peek into my life “in focus”—behind the camera, behind the words. Relationships are my greatest inspiration. And these are but a few. Blogging is a place where I can sort of “hang my heart” in honor of all of them.
As I press on may I leave a legacy of joy.
Peace,
Alexandria

I

This is just a photo-op. Serious photographers know you can’t take a picture of the moon without a tripod and special lens. I’m posing with the Nikon D60 with stock lens. Like I said, a photo-op to show me taking a picture. It was a beautiful backdrop, full moon rising. One of these days …

All photos taken with Nikon D60 DSLR with AF-S Nikkor 18-55mm 1:3.5-5.6G lens, Sony Cyber-Shot, or iPhone. Photos of me were taken by my family, except the first—taken by me. 🙂

Other interpretations of the Challenge and related articles:

20 Comments
by Alexandria Sage on November 30, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Enjoy Life, Weekly Photo Challenge
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Posted by Alexandria Sage on November 30, 2012

https://simplysage.org/2012/11/30/legacy-of-joy-special-photo-challenge-inspiration/

Thanksgiving Reflections


“Before you go out into the world, wash your face in the clear crystal of praise. Bury each yesterday in the fine linen and spices of thankfulness.” ~ Charles Spurgeon

“The man who has forgotten to be thankful has fallen asleep in life.” ~ Robert Louis Stevenson

“Every breath is a battle between grudgery and gratitude. Give thanks…and you win joy.” ~ Ann Voskamp

“O God, when I have food, help me to remember the hungry. When I have work, help me to remember the jobless. When I have a home, help me to remember those who have no home at all.

When I am without pain, help me to remember those who suffer. And remembering, help me to destroy my complacency, bestir my compassion,

And be concerned enough to help—by word and deed, those who cry out for what we take for granted. Amen.” ~ Samuel F. Pugh

Happy Thanksgiving everybody.

Peace,

Alexandria

Related articles

26 Comments
by Alexandria Sage on November 23, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Be Content With Who You Are, Enjoy Life, Stay Close with Those You Love, Weekly Photo Challenge
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Posted by Alexandria Sage on November 23, 2012

https://simplysage.org/2012/11/23/thanksgiving-reflections/

Moon Escape Far and Near

Yes, I went to Rome. Yes, I witnessed this breathtaking full-moon rising, with the Colosseum in all its night glory. So yes, I was there the night of this photo. But no, I did not take it. But yes, I was with the photographer who did.

His name is Dan Pope. We traveled to Rome with he and his wife, long-time friends, celebrating anniversaries. Dan is well-known for his stunning photography, but also his kind and generous heart. While Dan went at it with his professional equipment, the rest of us savored the surreal night, coupled with a perfect July evening temperature.

And now bring time up to one month ago and my backyard. With help from Wenjie Zhang on how to photograph the moon, I set up the tripod and camera settings exactly as he recommends. I did not have as powerful a lens as he but I was very pleased. Aside from cropping this photo is unedited.

20130820-213605.jpg

As to what the full moon brings out in me, it’s just one word–joy. I don’t morph into anybody different, nor have the desire to be anyone more … or less. Let’s just say I become more fully who I am. With a full moonscape turning my yard into an enchanted forest, how can I not?

Daily Prompt: Full Moon–Nighttime

11 Comments
by Alexandria Sage on October 27, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Enjoy Life
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Posted by Alexandria Sage on October 27, 2012

https://simplysage.org/2012/10/27/full-moon-nighttime/

A Sliver of Joy | Weekly Photo Challenge: Happy

A favorite hang-out | Pink fountain for a good cause. Cheery mums galore.

Favorite weather | Autumn hints, cleansing rain, cloud-break.
Lingering mist.

Favorite time | Post-breakfast desertion. Kids safe at school. Sigh …….

A slice of time,
A shy, favored friend.
A Sliver of Happy.

“Find a place inside where there’s joy, and the joy will burn out the pain.”
~ Joseph Campbell

“A friend is one to whom you may pour out all the contents of your heart, chaff and grain together, knowing that the gentlest of hands will take and sift it, keep what is worth keeping, and with the breath of kindness blow the rest away.” ~ Unknown

“Find the joy in your life. Laugh hard, laugh long, and laugh loud. There is something that brings joy to each of us. Find out what it is for you and work hard to get more of it.” ~ Stephen Deal

__________________________________________________________________

Referring articles:
http://dailypost.wordpress.com/2012/10/05/weekly-photo-challenge-happy/
vimeo.com/stevedeal (Twenty minutes on decreasing sadness, increasing joy)
https://thoughtfulpaper.wordpress.com/2012/10/06/weekly-photo-challenge-happy/

12 Comments
by Alexandria Sage on October 5, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Enjoy Life, Just For Fun, Stay Close with Those You Love, Weekly Photo Challenge
Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Posted by Alexandria Sage on October 5, 2012

https://simplysage.org/2012/10/05/a-sliver-of-joy-weekly-photo-challenge-happy/

September Reflections

A Beautiful Mind

“No one has yet realized the wealth of sympathy, the kindness and generosity hidden in the soul of a child. The effort of every true education should be to unlock that treasure.” ~ Emma Goldman

Buried Treasure

“Education is an ornament in prosperity and a refuge in adversity.” ~ Aristotle

The Expert’s Secret

“An expert is a person who has made all the mistakes that can be made in a very narrow field. ~ Neils Bohr

September—a time of reflection as summer winds down, school resumes, and autumn begins. It signals nature’s lingering slow dance, settling into its eventual winter rest. It’s a time for routine, a time for new learning. These are some thoughts that come to my mind.

image

There is a natural rhythm that comes with September. The reconnection with work and friends brings renewal to the gift of friendship. Friends are a touch of love from heaven. If you think you don’t have any, then reach out and be one. Suddenly you find you have one. They are a treasure hard to find but worth looking and waiting for–an always safe harbor in the storms of life. Peace, Alexandria

4 Comments
by Alexandria Sage on September 17, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Enjoy Life
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Posted by Alexandria Sage on September 17, 2012

https://simplysage.org/2012/09/17/september-reflections-2/

My Thoughts on Aging, from the Guest Author

The other day I was talking with a 75-year-old woman about the frustrations of aging. The aches and pains, the limited mobility, the failing memory, the sagging skin—how it all created significant frustration.

We joked about the 98-year-old woman who told me the best thing about wrinkles is that they don’t hurt. Then, in a tone more serious, she admitted she just didn’t understand the value of all this “getting old” business. She posed a valid question. The question prompted some thinking,
Might there be a valid reason?

My Dad always told me he wanted as many birthdays as he could have as long as he knew he was having them.
Over the years, he collected more than his share of serious ailments. No one loves his family or wants to be with them more than Dad. So far, he is still hanging in there. But I wonder if he is beginning to question that statement.

Like me, my Dad is a Christian. We believe in the place the Bible calls Heaven, and life will be better there than here. It is a beautiful place filled with reunion, the pain and suffering will go away, and the tears will be wiped away from our eyes. Life will be better!

So there, in the midst of that conversation, it struck me. Maybe this horrific thing called aging has a purpose.
By allowing us to change our sights from the here and now to the eternal, it reminds us that we are visitors here, waiting for our trip home.

And most of all, it reassures us that the best is yet to come.
The few glimpses of Heaven in the Bible show it to be an extraordinary place, a place so wondrous the Apostle Paul could find no earthly words to describe it. For our families it takes away a bit of the sting of death. When they compare their loss to the gain of the loved one passing, only the selfish can wish for the situation to be different.

So what should we do in the meantime?
 Remember the answer to the riddle attributed to King Solomon? The riddle inquires—What four words will make a happy man sad and a sad man happy? The answer was inscribed on the inside of a ring—“This too shall pass.” And in either case, isn’t this the truth? Life is indeed fragile and every moment is a gift from God. Because of Heaven, we can have peace in the midst of all circumstances and hope in a future that bears no suffering.

This life does not end here. It is just the beginning.
So for now, love the life you are given, accept the ailments as a badge of honor, and remember—your Heavenly Father has a better life ahead.

Thoughtfully,
Steve

 

Daily Prompt: Young at Heart

16 Comments
by Alexandria Sage on September 1, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in "My Thoughts" The Guest Author's View, Be Content With Who You Are, Devotionals, Enjoy Life, Stay Close with Those You Love, Take Care of Yourselves - Body and Spirit, The Truth Shall Set You Free, Twilight
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Posted by Alexandria Sage on September 1, 2012

https://simplysage.org/2012/09/01/my-thoughts-on-aging-from-the-guest-author/

The Weekly Photo Challenge | Sheer Joy Merge

So I’ve had a few questions as to what exactly is the “Weekly Photo Challenge”.
Since I’m getting quite a collection under that category I’m guessing an explanation is due. WordPress bloggers, you may disregard this for obvious reasons. You are considered an “Insider”. But I’d like to hear comments about what the Photo Challenge means to you.


Weekly Photo Challenge: Blue

For the rest of you, the Weekly Photo Challenge, by virtue of its title, may be self-explanatory. But for others, here’s the inside scoop.
The staff at WordPress came up this idea to stimulate creativity for those of us who handle a camera, be it the most humble cell phone camera—which is becoming not so humble anymore—to the most advanced, light years ahead of most.

Create

The Weekly Photo Challenge has just ONE rule.
Your photo must capture the one-word theme put out by WordPress. That one word is let out of the bag every Friday. I am stunned at how many are off to a running start. They answer the call with lightning speed. If you want to see some breathtaking photography drop by any Photo Challenge.
You will see some of the most incredible art.

Together

Me? Well, I’m just a bit different.
 Let’s just say my right brain must be awakened slowly. I churn over things. I think. I ponder. As I’ve said before, most of my creative thought takes place in front of a sink. A light or visual catches my eye and I’m out the door, camera dangling, in a vast array of attire, all very incidental and unplanned.
It’s a good thing I live in the country.


Sun

Another thing—I don’t publish every theme.
I’m so busy with the day-job, chasing kids and pets, home creating, garden-keeping, and squeezing in a number of avocations that mine are a bit more random and, albeit … late. I usually have an idea but it sits on the back-burner until I can attend to it. But the great thing is …

WordPress bloggers are the most forgiving and patient of folks. I am humbled they still visit, even if I am two weeks late!


Friendship—The All-Time Favorite … naturally

I’d be honored if you’d hang out a bit at my Weekly Photo Challenge category place.

I hope you enjoy my visuals. They’ve been exceptional fun to create.
As for me, I eagerly catch many others that post and am impressed at the creativity that extends to a summit beyond my vision.

Purple

I find it all to be inspirational and quite simply— fun.
Sheer joy.

What about you?

Inside

“There is something that brings joy to each of us.
Find out what it is for you and work hard to get more of it.”
~ Stephen Deal

Movement

27 Comments
by Alexandria Sage on August 18, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Enjoy Life, Weekly Photo Challenge
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Posted by Alexandria Sage on August 18, 2012

https://simplysage.org/2012/08/18/the-weekly-photo-challenge-sheer-joy-merge/

Be Near, Be Close | Weekly Photo Challenge: Near and Far

“A friend can be far away, but is always near.”

~ Anonymous

O

“A friend who is far away is sometimes much nearer than one who is at hand. Is not the mountain more awe-inspiring and more clearly visible to one passing through the valley than to those who inhabit the mountain?”
~ Kahlil Gibran

“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.”
~ James 4:8b

“Even if you are far away you are always close to my heart.”
~ Anonymous

28 Comments
by Alexandria Sage on August 9, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Enjoy Life, Remember--You Are Loved--No Matter What, Stay Close with Those You Love
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Posted by Alexandria Sage on August 9, 2012

https://simplysage.org/2012/08/09/be-near-be-close-weekly-photo-challenge-near-and-far/

Procrastination—Today’s Latest Cure

‘Twas a lazy Sunday afternoon and the great doze had settled in. Ahhh … perfect. Time to cozy into the chair and succumb to restful dreams. Flip footrest up … yawn. As I sauntered into luscious sleep a nagging thought gradually meandered in, disturbing my blissful state. Oops. Didn’t I promise myself, no matter what, curtains were to be hung in two rooms this weekend? The curtains culminated the completion of my decorating adventures in them. Therefore, this was a pivotal moment!

Every weekend my honey and I resolve to complete one home project. The project usually involves a trip to our favorite store, Lowes, to buy some new gadget or flowers or rake to make our simple existence seem a bit more lavish. Sometimes we just dream about a project, which still affords a sense of achievement. This weekend it was curtains but since he got a strange crick in his neck we decided he would direct and I’d do the work. Usually I direct and he does the work. (Hmm … that didn’t come out right.) Anyway … back to the curtains and the disturbance.

“Oh my, not now!” My eyelids grew heavy, weakening my resolve. Alas, I was stealthily approached by the procrastination bug— that old varmint! “Promises, promises … not now … later … another day,” it whispered, threatening to chomp.

Ahhh … but how many times had I told myself that? I have to confess, too many times! The curtains and rods were purchased nearly a month ago. Capturing valuable space in my sanctuary, they were an eyesore with every step past them. The relentless self-talk began.

“Oh, but I work tomorrow. I need my rest! What time is it anyway?”
“Still plenty of time. Be honest now.”
“Oh, but the husband has a crick in his neck. No way can he get on ladder and drill holes for me.”
“Umm…I believe you can use a power drill and climb a ladder. He can direct, y’know.”
“What??? I’ve never put my hands on a power drill!”
“Well, it’s high time you learned, isn’t it? Wasn’t that the plan?”
“Ugh. Don’t give away my secret of feigned helplessness! Yes, I know. Too well, I know!”

Flip footrest down! And up, go I. First, one step. Then, another. Wow—a beginning.

Then the commence of my familiar, forlorn call. In my most humble-ever-damsel-in-distress-voice I weakly cry, “Hon…eeeey? Guess what.” “Yes, dear. What?” “Remember that promise I made myself that you said you would help me with but you can’t do the work because you have a crick in your neck but I said you could direct me and you said maybe you could?” “Yes, dear.” “Well, I think that time is NOW.” And I, astute at reading his mind, immediately halt his thinking—“Gee, I’d hoped she’d forgotten. Shoulda offered her a trip to Lowes.”

Flip footrest down! (The lucky dog has one in his man-cave.) And I think, “Oh, it’s wonderful to have a man who can read a woman’s mind!” So with crick in neck, me on a ladder with levels, ruler, pencils, and power drill, I, for the very first time in my life, drilled my first hole. I handled that little monster with command … and respect. With the adrenalin rush on board, five rods and five sets of curtains plus two hours, done!

All this to say, when you sense the procrastination bug you can nip it with a for-sure cure. And that can be done in one, ever-so-miniscule-but-very-significant, step. One step. Try it. It really works!

Later in the week, I finished an upstairs room completely solo. I’m on a roll! And my husband knows the perfect next gift for me—my very own power drill. I feel a rush coming on just envisioning that next trip to Lowe’s!

“The cure for procrastination is one small step.”
~ Alexandria Sage

“The only difference between try and triumph is a little bit of umph.”
~ Unknown

“I’ve always been in the right place and time. Of course, I steered myself there.”
~Bob Hope

This is an article in response to the Daily Prompt with a theme of “Procrastination“.
I’d written this awhile back but return to it repeatedly when I need some motivation to take that “small step”. Works for me! 🙂

17 Comments
by Alexandria Sage on July 21, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Beginnings, Enjoy Life, In All Things Do Your Very Best, Just For Fun
Tagged , , , , , , , , , ,

Posted by Alexandria Sage on July 21, 2012

https://simplysage.org/2012/07/21/procrastination-todays-latest-cure/

Weekly Photo Challenge: Movement | Unapologetically You

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

~ Steve Maraboli

9 Comments
by Alexandria Sage on July 8, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Enjoy Life, Just For Fun, Weekly Photo Challenge
Tagged , , , , , , , , , , ,

Posted by Alexandria Sage on July 8, 2012

https://simplysage.org/2012/07/08/weekly-photo-challenge-movement-unapologetically-you/

Weekly Photo Challenge: Create | Portraits of Success

When I saw this week’s Photo Challenge my thoughts turned immediately to my previous “Portraits of Success” photo of child’s chalk creations. I have reposted with some added thoughts and photos. Enjoy, contemplate … create.

Children have an insatiable desire to create, to dream. What better way to adorn a front porch than with these beautiful child drawings? Don’t children provide a continual delight with constant surprises of the creative urge? We smile, we laugh, we delight. We are captivated, enchanted.

But there is deep within us a simultaneous lament, an angst that pains the delight. We look bare-faced at ourselves. Life progressed and the weight of the world gradually nudged out the child—and the dreams, drowned in the cares of life, swirled in a whirlpool down the drain. The child within seemed to disappear. Then we become bearers of children and begin a quest, and cultivate to make it different for them.

But should we do no less for ourselves?  Should we not reclaim the artist, the child within? For the artist within leads to one of our Creator’s intentions for us—joy. Sheer joy.

A twenty-something picks up a brush for the first time and discovers a wondrous gift

The insatiable desire to create was given by the Creator to feed our dreams throughout life and create, create, create into adulthood—to keep us, in the words of Steve Jobs—”hungry and foolish”—and become all we were intended to be. And we can find our “adult work” through nourishing the artist within. Our work will not seem like work. In a sense, it can even seem like play. As Thomas Jefferson said, “Find a job you love and you’ll never work another day in your life.” Children are risky and lavish as they create. They are not gripped with insecurity, fear, or hesitation that bounds we adults.

A great-grandpa that knows how to stay a child and builds something delightful.

As grown-ups we must practice the art of creation and reclaim our childlike wonder. We must be intentional this time because we have lost our natural inclination to do so. Keep creating, keep looking, keep finding. After all, our Creator has the same insatiable desire. Look at the intricate beauty He presents to us everyday, everywhere—touches of heaven. Let us mimic Him.

Chalk is a great place to start!

Thoughts on this, please?
Peace,
Alexandria

Other thoughts on this:

https://simplysage.org/2012/01/22/nourish-joy/

But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 19:14 NKJV)

“To laugh often and much—to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children—to earn the appreciation of honest critics and to endure the betrayal of false friends—to appreciate beauty—to find the best in others—to leave the world a bit better whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition—to know that even one life has breathed easier because you have lived—this is to have succeeded.”

~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

8 Comments
by Alexandria Sage on June 24, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Enjoy Life, Weekly Photo Challenge
Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Posted by Alexandria Sage on June 24, 2012

https://simplysage.org/2012/06/24/weekly-photo-challenge-create-portraits-of-success/

Less About Me

Greetings, I am Alexandria Sage and
this is the new “less about me” page. As humans we are complicated
creatures and cannot be summed up easily. I have a “more about me”
page, a different story of me—longer. If you’re still reading this
by now, I thank you from the bottom of my heart and I hope you’ll
read on … and get to know “less of me”, which may be all you need
to know. But—just in case—there is always
more.

I like … words, art, flowers, dawn,
dusk, history—all of it, current events, cultural trends, peanut
butter and jelly, simplicity, excellence, hard, exhausting
work.

I have … a
lovely dwelling place, the sweetest canine, two fierce, outdoor
felines, a red four-wheeler, great health that comes at a high
price, a fulfilling job, compassion for the lonely and lost,
enough.

I can … keep a secret, water ski,
grow flowers, sing first soprano.

I struggle with … the usual
insecurities, failures, and frailties inherent in human skin, a
chronic disease, man’s cruelty to man and beast.

I love … family, friends, the smell
of children, the stories of old people, solitude, the Holy
Scriptures, God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

I am … a loyal friend, passionate
about nearly everything, including sleep and play, loved deeply by
my parents, husband, children, and siblings. a truth seeker, truth
examiner, truth finder, intrigued by philosophy, a dedicated
student of the Scriptures and follower of Jesus Christ,
so fortunate, old
enough.

I need … love, mercy, patience,
kindness, forgiveness.

I long for … legacy,
significance.

I want
… to decrease sadness and increase joy, to make a difference for
… everyone.

Peace,
Alexandria

13 Comments
by Alexandria Sage on June 19, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Enjoy Life, Just For Fun, SimplySage Is...
Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Posted by Alexandria Sage on June 19, 2012

https://simplysage.org/2012/06/19/more-and-less-about-me/

Today | WPC Habit

7:15 PM.
It’s the day job and a moment in time—a break.
Day’s end nears. Check email.
Today

Today?
Not much time left TODAY.
Camera? Just a phone.
Oh well, I’ll probably skip this one … today.

Then, a moment in time
catches my eye.
Red rainbow glint on steel, fluorescent shine,
window, shadow.
Patterns emerge. Hmmm … lovely.
Click.

I move to finish day job.
Straighten straight lines. Replenish supplies. Done.
Color, lines, and pattern again.
Hmmm … not bad.
Actually,  fun!
Click.

Maybe … something will happen TODAY.
I say good-night and walk away.

Shine again,
the long hall …
which bore the long haul.
Click.

I move again and whisper prayer,
Can You give me something for TODAY?
Not sunrise or flower …
But,
If You wish me to share TODAY
just let me know, perhaps this very hour?
Somehow?

I depart the day job.
Click.

Then … another moment in time.
And I know …
Not just rainbow red, glint off steel,
pattern, lines, or shadow.
But … something more.
I peer through window.
Click.
Smile.
Rainbow tucked amid cold stone
and fluorescent square reflection.
To reflect,
He is here … and He is not silent …
TODAY.

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. (Matthew 7:7 NIV)

Peace,
Alexandria

These are some of the regular sights at my day job. This is an old one. I’ll have to beg forgiveness.
Weekly Photo Challenge: Habit

24 Comments
by Alexandria Sage on June 2, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Devotionals, Enjoy Life, In All Things Do Your Very Best, Just For Fun, Weekly Photo Challenge
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Posted by Alexandria Sage on June 2, 2012

https://simplysage.org/2012/06/02/today/

Are You Spent … or Well-Spent? ~ Thoreau

“The price of anything is the amount of life you exchange for it.”

~ Henry David Thoreau

 

“Too many people today know the price of everything and the value of nothing.” ~ Ann Landers

9 Comments
by Alexandria Sage on May 22, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Enjoy Life, In All Things Do Your Very Best, Time, Twilight
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Posted by Alexandria Sage on May 22, 2012

https://simplysage.org/2012/05/22/a-z-archive-challenge-s-spent/

Hydrangea Joy | Weekly Photo Challenge: Blue

Grand

Generous 

Abundant

Joy giving

Smile maker

Favorite flower

Enjoy!

Peace,
Alexandria

“A-Z Archive” H! Photo Challenge

18 Comments
by Alexandria Sage on May 16, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Enjoy Life, Just For Fun, Weekly Photo Challenge
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Posted by Alexandria Sage on May 16, 2012

https://simplysage.org/2012/05/16/hydrangea-joy-weekly-photo-challenge-blu/

Weekly Photo Challenge: Together

Ok, I know I may be overboard on the red cars but I find them quite irresistible. When the Weekly Photo Challenge came out this week I thought I could combine them with the previous post. But it just didn’t work. I had those other “single” car photos I REALLY wanted to put with that health post and they didn’t fit with the Together theme. Conflicted I was so I decided to split the photos up and have the Weekly Photo Challenge separate.

So that’s the story of this week. I sincerely hope you enjoy these beautiful together cars as much as I do, as well as the abundance of car photos. It’s a break from my usual nature posts but those red cars were spectacular. Look how they sparkle in the sunlight!

I hope you enjoyed the previous post, too. Got your check-up scheduled yet? If not, read the previous post Body Work.

13 Comments
by Alexandria Sage on May 2, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Enjoy Life, Just For Fun, Weekly Photo Challenge
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Posted by Alexandria Sage on May 2, 2012

https://simplysage.org/2012/05/02/a-z-archive-challenge-t-togethe/

Body Work

“Just for a moment I want you to imagine that I gave each of you a car today. The bad news is that it will be your only car for your lifetime.  I suspect given that information, I would see you taking great care of that car.  You would wash and wax it, get the oil changed and get routine maintenance.  I suspect you might even drive a little more carefully.

In the same way… take care of your bodies. They will last you your lifetime.  Remember to exercise, eat wisely, and seek appropriate healthcare.”

~ Stephen Deal, excerpt from speech Things We Want You to Remember
www.vimeo.com/stevedeal

The other day I was talking to someone about some health issues. They were hesitant to get some medical testing because of having to meet a copay or health insurance deductible. We talked about health care costs, which seem to be on everyone’s mind these days. However, when you think about if your car needs some costly repairs, often no one balks at having to pay a price for something like that.

Yes, good health is costly. But it’s an investment. And over time, it’s an investment that pays well. Health care maintenance is an investment that may not show anything outwardly, but good internal health will reward you with more energy to fulfill your goals, to think clearly, and to function optimally. Plus, it gives peace of mind.

Unless you are hit with an illness that was not of your own doing, and we all know this happens, investing what’s needed to keep your body functioning optimally should be looked upon over time like the vintage car in the photo above. Someone invested a lot of money and time and this car is a beauty. I’ll bet the engine is just as pristine.

We owe it to ourselves to care for ourselves and invest in good health. That new crown you got may have cost a small fortune but there’s no price tag on healthy teeth to nourish your body with good food. No one can necessarily see it but the nourishment your body receives from the good food you eat knows it.

And yes, an annual check-up with your physician will be costly, especially when you add some lab work to it. But think about this. You do it for your car. Why would you do any less for your body? Over your lifetime you will more than likely own several cars. They are replaceable but your body is not. You only get one. How about scheduling a check-up today?

Peace,
Alexandria


14 Comments
by Alexandria Sage on April 28, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in "My Thoughts" The Guest Author's View, Enjoy Life, Just For Fun, Take Care of Yourselves - Body and Spirit
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Posted by Alexandria Sage on April 28, 2012

https://simplysage.org/2012/04/28/bodywork/

Spring Sings | Weekly Photo Challenge: Sun

“All that is gold does not glitter,
Not all those who wander are lost;
The old that is strong does not wither,
Deep roots are not reached by the frost.

From the ashes a fire shall be woken,
A light from the shadows shall spring;
Renewed shall be blade that was broken,
The crownless again shall be king.”

~J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring

15 Comments
by Alexandria Sage on April 21, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Beginnings, Enjoy Life, Time, Weekly Photo Challenge
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Posted by Alexandria Sage on April 21, 2012

https://simplysage.org/2012/04/21/springs-eternal-hope/

CenterPeace

“Worry is a cycle of inefficient thoughts whirling around a center of fear.” ~ Corrie ten Boom

“Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? … Look at the lilies of
the field and how they grow. … And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you.” Jesus Christ Matthew 6:27, 28

7 Comments
by Alexandria Sage on March 25, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Be Content With Who You Are, Enjoy Life, In All Things Do Your Very Best, Remember--You Are Loved--No Matter What
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Posted by Alexandria Sage on March 25, 2012

https://simplysage.org/2012/03/25/centerpeace-daffodils/

Weekly Photo Challenge: Friendship | The Beauty Of A True Friend

Friendship—what a beautiful theme. I just have to repost this photo. Please forgive me as I used this for the Summer Challenge, too. I will leave the post as written because I think it speaks so strongly of friendship. But I think for many it is only the beginning of a vast array this week. I repost because I need the strong reminder of the quote. Remember, everything I write I’m writing first to myself.

This photo was taken at the dawn of summer when I clean and open the back porch and enjoy morning coffee in the early morning hours—sometimes with my husband, sometimes with friends, sometimes alone. Summer is here when I can do this every day. I love the way the sun filters through the screen—even more refreshing after an early morning rain.

When I saw the Summer theme, I have an endless supply of summer photos, as I’m sure all do. My wonderful flowers voice summer but they do so loudly. I wanted something a bit different that portrayed what signals to me summer’s true arrival. And for me it’s about family and friends. Summer brings them out in abundance with a carefree, relaxed attitude. They let down and give their most precious possession—TIME.

And in return I give—TIME.

My friends and family love each other through joys, sorrow, and quirks. Sharing morning coffee strengthens us to keep trying, growing, and we just enjoy the company and laughter of each other. If you have taken the time to read this, then I consider you a friend dropping by as well. I’m enjoying this exact place this very moment and am honored you joined me.

I hope you enjoy this strong reminder. Remember, your friends come with wrinkles. But so do you. So do I. We try to straighten each other out, don’t we? But we forgive and take each as we are, wrinkles and all. Who wants the alternative—to be alone?

I think this voices what I’d like to say to all of you.

Take some TIME …
and enjoy … this.

“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

9 Comments
by Alexandria Sage on March 12, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Enjoy Life, Remember--You Are Loved--No Matter What, Weekly Photo Challenge
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Posted by Alexandria Sage on March 12, 2012

https://simplysage.org/2012/03/12/weekly-photo-challenge-friendship-the-beauty-of-a-true-friend/

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