Susan’s Thursday Morning Notes

Susan’s Latest “Thursday Morning Notes”
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On Thursdays I try to send an e-mail where I write about what I am personally reading in my own life that week. I try to add a Latin phrase relating to the topic of my reading. You can read past notes under archives on my home page, listing these writings by topic. I write to help process life, I write so that we can all have the opportunity to read what will help us find beauty in life. Beauty in details. Realizing how much we have regardless of what pains we may have. I would love to add you to my list of who gets the notes on Thursdays! Susan

Latin Words & Phrases Used in Past Thursday Notes

 

Appreciation & Gratitude:

Agatha Christie’s Memories. Thoughts on her life being part of an unknown play. Quotes on memory and soul. (April 2017)

Alice Herz-Sommer. World’s Oldest Living Holocaust Survivor on finding beauty in life. (September 2020)

Angel of Dawn poem by J.S. Cutler (New Day bringing New Gift) (June 2011)

Beauty in Details. Finding God. Finding meaning in life. “One Thousand Gifts” by Ann Voskamp (April 2012)

Beauty in the moment. In gardens. In what is NOW. Creation. This moment. (June 2008)

Beauty Near Us. Violinist Joshua Bell playing secretly in the Washington D.C. Subway (May 2021)

Beauty of Life and Finding God – Etty Hillesum/WWII Journal of 29 year old in concentration camp) (Mar 2009)

Beauty of living. Choices. The soul. Falling in love with literature. Pursuing LIFE rather than enduring life. (Dec. 2008)

Desert Wisdom: Sayings from the Desert Fathers (compiled in the 4th & 5th centuries) (January 2022)

Desires for self and those we love. Beauty of a moment. “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” by Truman Capote. (Oct. 2006)

Quotes on Hope.  Easter and Spring.  (April 2022)

Finding Joy in Daily Life “Honey in Your Heart” & “Live with Intention” Mary Anne Radmacher (March 2012)

Happiness/Grief same time. Beauty that Hasn’t Yet Been Created “The History of Love” by Nicole Krauss (June 2009)

Helen Keller short essay on what she would do if given the gift of three days of sight and hearing. (Jan. 2016)

Helen Keller’s writing on her teacher’s beauty.  Fear of life after teacher’s death. Gift of senses. (Sept. 2018)

Music. Love. Friendships. Character. Gifts from love of music. “Piano Shop on the Left Bank” by Thad Carhart (Oct. 2008)

Quotes on Appreciating TODAY “The Traveler” always traveling to find happiness by Daren Simkin (July 2024)

Simplicity “Simple Abundance” by Sarah Ban Breathnach (Jan. 2009)

Simplicity. Beauty in details. The Way of the Small by Michael Gellert (May 2009)

Song of Years by Bess Streeter Aldrich. Strength. Hope. Faith. Desire. Love. (October 2016)

Spirituality in Daily Life & Work – “Adam Bede” by George Eliot (July 2014)

The Art of Happiness by William Ogden NYT Column 1945 & Michel Michel by Robert Lewis WW2 (April 2013)

Thoughts of a little waif child. Michael O’Halloran by Gene Stratton Porter. (April 2010)

Time. Precious. Beautiful Moments – Taking Time to Appreciate Life in the Present (Apr. 2007)

Bearing Gracefully Pain & Hardship:

Auschwitz Liberation. Holocaust Writings. Elie Wiesel Prayer. Maximilian Kolbe Priest and Martyr. Etty Hillesum prisoner journal entries. Presence of God in the midst of suffering. (May 2022)

Bearing Gracefully Pain & Hardship. Butterfly bringing hope. (August 2006)

Change, Accepting & Growing…Susan’s Analogy to Simmering Pot of Soup (Sept. 2007)

Complexity of Mother/Daughter Relationship. Death of Mother. “Birthday Parties in Heaven” by Ana Veciana-Suarez (May 2006)

Coping with intense pain – “Mistaken Identity” by Don & Susie Van Ryn (June 2008)

Desires for self and those we love. Beauty of a moment. “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” by Truman Capote. (Oct. 2006)

Despair vs. Hope – Streams in the Desert by HC Cowman (March 2020)

Diaries and Letters of Anne Lindbergh – Goodbyes. Soul. Strength. Prayer. Grief (July 2008 & Aug 2011)

Difficult Times – Bad Luck Good Luck Fable (Apr 2008)

Difficult Times – Verses of Promises from God (Jan. 2007)

Disappointment in Life. Hurts. Despair “As Silver Refined” by Kay Arthur (May 2008)

Dreaming. Keeping alive regardless of circumstances. Keeping LIFE. “A Lantern in Her Hand” by Bess Streeter Aldrich (Dec. 2009)

Easy Life vs. Hard Life: Pursuing Happiness Regardless “Villette” by Charlotte Bronte (July 2009)

Faith. Trusting God for what we don’t understand & what we desire. “Streams in the Desert” (June 2009)

Finding meaning in our lives regardless of circumstances. (Mans Search for Meaning by Victor Frankl.) October 2018

Getting Through Extremely Difficult Experiences. “Keep Going: The Art of Perseverance” by Joseph Marshall (May 2020)

God’s Involvement in Pain, Grief, Despair “Gold by Moonlight” by Amy Carmichael (Jan. 2009)

Heaven. Susan’s thoughts on anniversary of mother’s death. (Jan. 2007)

Hold Fast Your Dreams poem by Louise Driscoll. Dreaming amidst suffering. (May 2013)

I can’t go on.  I go on.  When Breath Becomes Air by Surgeon Paul Kalanithi. (October 2019)

Intense Pain in Life – Forrest Gump Analogy & On My Knees Song (Nov. 2006)

Life Changes and Letting Go “When the Heart Waits” by Sue Monk Kidd (Sept. 2008)

Loneliness & Despair. Search for meaningful life – “Work” by Louisa May Alcott (Jan. 2019)

Looking at ourselves in mirror. Analyzing self. “I Never Promised You a Rose Garden” (August 2021)

Madame Guyon (1717) Freedom of Heart & Mind Poem (on freedom of soul regardless of circumstances) (April 2012)

Morning Prayer. Trust. Hope. Responsibility to Life.  (May 2024)

Music Analogy. Hard moments in life compared to musical composition. Richard Paul Evans Christmas Box Collection. (Nov. 2006)

Pain. Grief. Hardship. “Always Looking Up” by Michael J. Fox and “Perfectly Imperfect” by Lee Woodruff (May 2009)

Poem on a Beautiful Woman and Chinese Tale of Joy/Sorrow by Eleanor Farjeon (January 2013)

Prayer. Heaven. Goodness. Forgiveness. “The Lamplighter” by Maria Cummins (September 2024)

Refusing to be “poor in spirit” – “Lucy Gayheart” by Willa Cather (Aug. 2014)

Regrets. Moving on. Forgiving Self. Sadness. Change. (Nov. 2008)

Regrets in life. Forgiving yourself. “For One More Day” by Mitch Alborn (Oct. 2006)

Rose Analogy. Beauty of old rose bushes vs. buds. Hard life giving beauty. “Finding Noel” by Richard Paul Evans (Feb. 2007)

Seeing Possibilities in Future. Time bringing healing. “Chez Moi” by Agnes Desarthe (Aug. 2009)

Sioux Warrior Poem. Thoughts on warriors. (April 2020)

Suffering, Fear of future, Ability to relate to others, Joy in spite of pain. “The Master’s Violin” by Reed & “Anne’s House of Dreams” by Montgomery (Jan. 2011)

Thoughts on the soul and eternal perspective when suffering. Poem from confederate soldier “Unanswered Prayer” (November 2019)

Time Passing so Quickly “Lantern in Her Hand” by Bess Streeter Aldrich (Dec. 2009)

Uncertainty. Difficult Times “My Utmost for His Highest” by Oswald Chambers (Mar. 2007)

Books:  Love of Books & Reading

Beauty of living. Choices. The soul. Falling in love with literature. Pursuing LIFE rather than enduring life. (Dec. 2008)

Bibliophilia & Bibliomania – The love of books vs. the excessive-compulsive disorder hoarding books (May 2008)

Book Effects on our lives “Library at Night” by Alberto Manguel – (March 2023)

Book Quotes from “Book Notes: A Reader’s Journal” (April 2009)

Book Talking to Owner from Confinement on Shelf “A Book” poem by Edgar Guest (February 2024)

Children’s Poetry “Julie Andrews’ Collection of Poems. Songs. Lullabies.” (Dec 2009)

Develop a Love for Classics “Anna Karenina” by Leo Tolstoy (June 2007)

Importance of the written word. “A Book Lover’s Companion” by The Folio Society (May 2008)

Loneliness & Despair. Search for meaningful life – “Work” by Louisa May Alcott (Jan. 2019)

Love of Books & Book Quotes “The Master Violin” by Myrtle Reed (Jan. 2011)

Love of Reading “White Autumn” Poem of Woman’s Life Around a Simple Reading Lamp (Sept. 2023)

Love of reading and books. “I Opened a Book” by Julia Donaldson (Oct 2014)

Quotes by Ralph Waldo Emerson and Essay on Choosing Great Books (Nov. 2013)

Quotes on Books – “Book Notes Journal” (May 2008)

Simplicity and Love for Books “Simple Abundance” by Sarah Ban Breathnach (Jan. 2009)

Susan’s writing on her personal reading. “Why I read. How I choose what I read. How I find time to read.” (Feb. 2008)

Change:

Being Yourself “Just Who Will You Be” by Maria Shriver (Aug. 2008)

Bess Streeter Aldrich Excerpts – The years glide by… (October 2015)

Change, Accepting & Growing…Susan’s Analogy to Simmering Pot of Soup (Sept. 2007)

Changes. Letting go. Finding who we are. Regrets. Children growing & leaving home. (Gift of Ordinary Day by Katrina Kenison) (August 2024)

Death of young daughter…who mother became…feeling alive again. “Hannah’s Gift” by Maria Housden (Sept. 2008)

Life Changes and Letting Go “When the Heart Waits” by Sue Monk Kidd (Sept. 2008)

Mourning losses in life compared to phases of the moon. Poem “Shadows in the Light” by Robert Lavery (Oct. 2007)

Regrets. Moving on. Forgiving Self. Sadness. Change. (Nov. 2008)

Time Passing so Quickly “Lantern in Her Hand” by Bess Streeter Aldrich (Dec. 2009)

Uncertainty. Difficult Times “My Utmost for His Highest” by Oswald Chambers (Mar. 2007)

Children:

Changes. Letting go. Finding who we are. Regrets. Children growing & leaving home. (Gift of Ordinary Day by Katrina Kenison) (Sept. 2020)

Child’s view of God poetry. Quotes on God being found in nature. (June 2024)

Children being our living poems – by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (May 2015)

Children Suffering. “Perfectly Imperfect” by Lee Woodruff and “Always Looking Up” by Michael J. Fox. (May 2009)

Children’s Poetry “Julie Andrews’ Collection of Poems. Songs. Lullabies.” (Dec 2009)

Christmas. Bess Streeter Aldrich. Keeping beauty in perspective regardless of present circumstances. (Dec. 2020)

Conversation between mother and child. “That’s all relative!” “Maggie Now Betty Smith (March 2012)

Creation. Butterfly & Child (July 2006) Nature helping fight sadness. “Achieving Peace of Heart” by Rev. Irala. (Apr. 2008)

Daughter graduating. “High School Senior” poem from Mother’s perspective by Sharon Olds from “She Walks In Beauty” poetry compiled by Caroline Kennedy. (Apr. 2011)

Heaven – Mother meets her child in heaven that had died (Eugene Field) & “Just in Case You Ever Wonder” by Max Lucado (Dec. 2009)

Leaving children small notes for their future comfort. Question of God’s involvement in crisis. (Sept. 2006)

Letting Children Develop Their Own Loves, Desires – Letting Them Go. “The Little Virtues” by Natalia Ginzburt (Jan. 2008)

Little hands of our children…”playing on the vibrant harp-strings of my heart” “Baby Fingers” poem. (Aug. 2009)

Little ones wanting to be grown. Grown-ups desiring youth. One-Year-Old Poem by Hugo (April 2016)

Love of mother for her children. Death of young child. Thoughts on heaven. Anniversary of death of loved ones. “Stepping Heavenward” by Elizabeth Prentiss (Mar. 2008)

Mothers and Sons. “That’s My Son: How Moms Can Influence Boys…” by Rick Johnson and excerpt of children’s fear of dark (Sept. 2010)

Mother’s Impact on Son. “That’s My Son: How Moms Can Influence Boys to Become Men of Character” by Rick Johnson (Sept. 2010)

Music bestowed to a child at birth.  “The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto” by Mitch Alborn (January 2023)

Poems from Susan’s Childhood (Jan. 2008)

Poems on raising children, singing to children, letting children leave home (March 2014)

Quotes on Children – Appreciation of Life & Christmas (Dec 2011)

Raising Children “Bringing Up Geeks: How to Protect Your Kid’s Childhood…” by MaryBeth Hicks (May 2009)

The Arms of a Child. Poem by Mary Zachmeyer (love this!) – (Jan. 2008)

“The Children’s Hour” poem by Longfellow. Playing with children during long afternoon hours (June 2010)

Thoughts for each other during the day. “Telepathy” poem by Michael Dennis Browne. (Jan. 2010)

Thoughts on understanding children. “If Life is a Bowl of Cherries…” by Erma Bombeck (June 2012)

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star – Helen Keller’s encouragement to use our senses. Star Quotes. (October 2021)

“We are Seven” Child’s View of of siblings buried by William Wordsworth from 1798 (Jan. 2024)

Christmas:

Candlelight giving just enough light for our next step. (December 2019)

Christmas. Bess Streeter Aldrich. Keeping beauty in perspective regardless of present circumstances. (Dec. 2020)

Christmas during difficult times. “Lantern in Her Hand” by Bess Streeter Aldrich (Dec. 2007)

Christmas – Reflections on use of all our senses. “The Christmas Box Collection” by Richard Paul Evans. (Dec. 2006)

Imagination Quotes. “Is there a Santa Claus?” NY Editorial 1897 (Dec 2015)

Intangible gifts from a friend of joy. Courage. Peace. Heaven. Fra Giovanni 1433-1515 (March 2017)

Quotes on Angels and “Papa Panov’s Special Christmas” (Dec. 2023)

Shepherd verses. Thoughts. Poetry. (December 2016)

The Blessing of the Creche by Sue Monk Kidd. Beautiful Christmas quotes. (December 2017)

Tradition of spider ornament in Christmas trees. Tinsel. (Dec. 2017)

Despair:

Despair vs. Hope – Streams in the Desert by HC Cowman (March 2020)

Difficult Times – Verses of Promises from God (Jan. 2007)

Disappointment in Life. Hurts. Despair “As Silver Refined” by Kay Arthur (May 2008)

Dreaming. Keeping alive regardless of circumstances. Keeping LIFE. “A Lantern in Her Hand” by Bess Streeter Aldrich (Dec. 2009)

Finding hope again through nature after deep pain.  The Secret Garden (May 2019)

Getting Through Extremely Difficult Experiences. “Keep Going: The Art of Perseverance” by Joseph Marshall (May 2020)

God’s Involvement in Caring for Us. “Jesus Calling” Devotional by Sarah Young (Mar. 2010)

Loneliness & Despair. Search for meaningful life – “Work” by Louisa May Alcott (Jan. 2019)

Madame Guyon (1717) Freedom of Heart & Mind Poem (on freedom of soul regardless of circumstances) (April 2012)

Music Analogy. Hard moments in life compared to musical composition. Richard Paul Evans Christmas Box Collection. (Nov. 2006)

Pain. Grief. Hardship. “Always Looking Up” by Michael J. Fox and “Perfectly Imperfect” by Lee Woodruff (May 2009)

Psalms. God’s deep love for us. God using nighttime hours to give us peace. (May 2007)

Regrets. Moving on. Forgiving Self. Sadness. Change. (Nov. 2008)

Friendship:

Beauty of living. Choices. The soul. Falling in love with literature. Pursuing LIFE rather than enduring life. (Dec. 2008)

Friendship – Anne Morrow Lindbergh & Charlotte Bronte (July 2009)

Friendship Quotes.  Friendships compared to cells in honey combs. (April 2018)

Friendships. Girlfriends. “Lots of Candles, Plenty of Cake” by Anne Quindlen. (June 2012)

Friendships. Vulnerability in Relationships. “Braveheart” by Sharon Hersh (May 2008)

Intangible gifts from a friend of joy. Courage. Peace. Heaven. Fra Giovanni 1433-1515 (March 2017)

Winnie the Pooh Quotes by A.A. Milne (June 2015)

Goals & Organization:

Age Activation Attention Disorder (fun poem on distractions in a day – grin!) (Aug. 2006)

Attitude (Mental Attitude by Elbert Hubbard) (Oct 2009)

Balancing multiple roles and daily dilemmas on overcommitment “Power of 10-10-10” by Suzy Welch (Sept. 2006)

Beauty of living. Choices. The soul. Falling in love with literature. Pursuing LIFE rather than enduring life. (Dec. 2008)

Being Yourself (Babette’s Feast in Anecdotes of Destiny and Ehrengard by Isak Dinesen) (March 2008)

Book Talking to Owner from Confinement on Shelf  “A Book” poem by Edgar Guest (February 2024)

Coexisting with Unresolved & Embracing Imperfection “Creating a Charmed Life” by Victoria Moran (Mar. 2007 & 2011)

Desire for solitude. Creativity. Prayer. “Firstlight” by Sue Monk Kidd (Aug. 2008)

Hourglass analogy to handling life. Focusing on today, not past or tomorrow. Sir William Osler and Dr. James Gordon (September 2024)

Living life fully regardless of circumstances. Impact of poetry on lives. “The Lesson of the Moth” poem by Don Marquis (July 2008)

Living Remarkably–Daily Choices (The Big Moo by Seth Godin) (October 2008)

Making bed each morning lesson by Admiral Bill McRaven.  Details matter.  Quotes on Details.  (February 2023)

Organization “A Perfect Mess: The Hidden Benefits of Disorder by Abramson & Freedman” (May 2009)

Perseverance Quotes (Jan. 2011)

Perseverence Quotes. The Water Lily by Jean Ingelow (May 2016)

Personal libraries being mirrors of soul. (Book by Book by John Dirda) (March 2008)

Priority Setting. Goals “Never Check E-Mail in the Mornings” by Julie Morgenstern (Aug. 2009)

Resolutions of Jonathan Edwards. Inspiring Quotes. Love of Words (April 2012)

Setting Goals. Evaluating Things to Do by Priority “Eat That Frog” by Brian Tracy (April 2008)

Setting goals through Discipline. Perseverance. Ideals. “Self-Help” by Samuel Smiles – written in 1866 (Sept. 2009)

Setting intellectual goals. Education quotes. Tales from a Village School by Miss Read (Aug 2012)

Susan’s Personal Organizational Issues (grin) (May 2007)

Writing to Change. Cope. Grow – “The Sound of Paper” by Julia Cameron (Sept. 2007)

Grief.  Pain.  Difficult Life.

Anne Lindbergh “War Within and Without: Diaries and Letters 1939-1944” Beauty. pain. grief. hope. awareness. solitude. time…(2008. 2010. 2011)

Auschwitz Liberation. Holocaust Writings. Elie Wiesel Prayer. Maximilian Kolbe Priest and Martyr. Etty Hillesum prisoner journal entries. Presence of God in the midst of suffering. (May 2022)

Choices We Make after Loss “Grace Disguised” by Sittser (Aug. 2009)

Christmas” by Vladimir Navokov (1925) Miracle moment after death of a small child at Christmas. (December 2015)

Comfort in Grief – “Streams in the Desert” (June 2006 – July 2009)

Complexity of Mother/Daughter Relationship. Death of Mother. “Birthday Parties in Heaven” by Ana Veciana-Suarez (May 2006)

Coping with intense pain – “Mistaken Identity” by Don & Susie Van Ryn (June 2008)

Death of infant at birth. Discussion of death with husband. Grief. “Lantern in Her Hand” by Bess Streeter Aldrich (Dec. 2009)

Death of oldest settler in a rural community. White Bird Flying. (Nov 2015)

Death of who we deeply love. “Letters to Father: Suor Maria Celeste to Galileo 1623-1633” (July 2008)

Death of young daughter…who mother became…feeling alive again. “Hannah’s Gift” by Maria Housden (Sept. 2008)

Despair vs. Hope – Streams in the Desert by HC Cowman (March 2020)

Difficult Times – Verses of Promises from God (Jan. 2007)

Edna St. Vincent Millay poetry – “Everywhere I look you are – but you’re nowhere…” poem on death of her loved one. (Mar. 2009)

Great is Thy Faithfulness Hymn. Quotes on Mercy (July 2010)

Finding beauty and God in life even in horrible circumstances. Journals of Etty Hillesum. Concentration Camp Victim. (Apr. 2009)

Finding beauty during times of grief. (Rumer Godden) Description of comfort in graveyard. (Oct. 2019)

Happiness/Grief same time. Beauty that Hasn’t Yet Been Created “The History of Love” by Nicole Krauss (June 2009)

Giving God our burdens. “Lean Hard” poem. (Nov. 2007)

Heaven. Susan’s thoughts on anniversary of mother’s death. (Jan. 2007)

Heaven – Mother meets her child in heaven that had died (Eugene Field) & “Just in Case You Ever Wonder” by Max Lucado (Dec. 2009)

Intense Pain in Life – Forrest Gump Analogy & On My Knees Song (Nov. 2006)

Little moments we remember after someone we love dies. “She Walks in Beauty” poems compiled by Caroline Kennedy. “Clearances” by Seamus Heaney. (October 2012)

Loneliness & Despair. Search for meaningful life – “Work” by Louisa May Alcott (Jan. 2019)

Madame Guyon (1717) Freedom of Heart & Mind Poem (on freedom of soul regardless of circumstances) (April 2012)

Mark Twain – Epitaph on Daughter’s Stone and Misc. Twain Quotes (Sept. 2015)

Memories – The Master’s Violin by Myrtle Reed (Jan. & Feb. 2011)

Misc. Excerpts from Susan’s Writings (Death. Grief. Sorrow. Depression)

Mourning compared to phases of moon. Poem by Robert Lavery in “Love Lost: Love Found.” (October 2007)

Moving from intense grief into next “movement of our song” – next part of life story. “The Secret Garden” by Frances Burnett (Feb. 2008)

Pain. Grief. Hardship. “Always Looking Up” by Michael J. Fox and “Perfectly Imperfect” by Lee Woodruff (May 2009)

Pain from death of our mothers. Letters from Motherless Daughters edited by Hope Edelman (June 2015)

Pain of loss because we love. “Necessary Losses” by Judith Viorst. Poem “The Arms of a Child” (Jan. 2008)

Scene of granddaughter entering home of grandmother who just died. (October 2017)

Solitude in Finding Balance (in Roles as a Woman) “Gift from the Sea” by Anne Lindbergh (June 2007)

Thoughts immediately after death of someone loved. Where do their thoughts go? Settling in Nebraska. “No Time on My Hands” by Grace Snyder (Sept. 2017)

Thoughts on the soul and eternal perspective when suffering. Poem from confederate soldier “Unanswered Prayer” (November 2019)

“We are Seven” Child’s View of of siblings buried by William Wordsworth from 1798 (Jan 2024)

Growing Older:

Aging “Forward from Here: Leaving Middle Age and Other Unexpected Adventures” by Reeve Lindbergh (Nov. 2008)

Aging (I Feel Bad About My Neck by Nora Ephron) (December 2007)

Home and Family:

Description of a true home. “A Heap O’Living” Poem by Edgar A. Guest (May 2008)

Elderly friend who loved us as a child dying. Passage of time. “Local Wonders by Ted Kooser” (May 2013 & Mar 2007)

Faces. Thoughts and quotes on interest in our faces. (August 2019)

Heirlooms.  Memories baked into pans.  Keepsakes.   (August 2023)

Home. Quotes and thoughts on this beautiful small word. (Feb. 2014)

Home full of “knick knack” treasures misunderstood by others to be junk.  (Oct. 2017)

Loyalty of Family Dog “Rilla of Ingleside” by L.M. Montgomery (May 2007)

Music Love. Friendships. Character. Gifts from love of music. “Piano Shop on the Left Bank” by Thad Carhart (Oct. 2008)

Quotes and Passages on Hands (Helen Keller and Willa Cather Excerpts) (July 2021)

Room where thoughts from morning await reentry in the evening. Thinking clearly alone. “Song of the Lark” by Willa Cather (Aug. 2007)

Susan’s Love & Secret Hoarding of Girl Scout Mint Cookies (Mar. 2007)

Susan’s Personal Organizational Issues (grin) (May 2007)

Thoughts immediately after death of someone loved. Where do their thoughts go? Settling in Nebraska. “No Time on My Hands” by Grace Snyder (April 2017)

Learning:

Beauty of living. Choices. The soul. Falling in love with literature. Pursuing LIFE rather than enduring life. (Dec. 2008)

Book Quotes from “Book Notes: A Reader’s Journal” (April 2009)

Book Talking to Owner from Confinement on Shelf  “A Book” poem by Edgar Guest (February 2024)

Importance of the written word. “A Book Lover’s Companion” by The Folio Society (May 2008)

Letters of Florence Nightingale – Her desire for intellectual growth (July 2022)

Lifetime Learning “Niels Lyhne” by Jens Jacobsen and Rilke’s “Letters to a Young Poet” (Dec. 2008)

Poems from Susan’s Childhood (Jan. 2008)

Vision of discussion on distraction with Plato and Aurelius. “The Undistracted” by Irwin Edman. (March 2020)

Why Read & Learn? Cultivating the Intellect “Hubbard’s Book of Initiative” (Aug. 2009)

Love:

Description of a Beautiful Person “Neighbor Rosicky” by Willa Cather (Feb. 2007)

Helping Others Secretly. Giving to find meaning. Kindness quotes. “Doctor Hudson’s Spiritual Journal” by Lloyd Douglas (March 2023)

Love – Helen Keller learning the meaning. Poem by Susan on love described (Feb. 2008)

Psalms. God’s deep love for us. God using nighttime hours to give us peace. (May 2007)

Mothers:

Anniversary of Mother’s Death. “It’s Okay.” Poem to Unborn Child. Beauty despite hurts. (Jan. 2017)

Being Yourself. Rope Analogy. Especially as a Mother. Wife. Creator. Thoughts of Anne Lindbergh (Jan. 2008)

Complexity of Mother/Daughter Relationship. Death of Mother. “Birthday Parties in Heaven” by Ana Veciana-Suarez (May 2006)

Daughter graduating. “High School Senior” poem from Mother’s perspective by Sharon Olds from “She Walks In Beauty” poetry compiled by Caroline Kennedy. (Apr. 2011)

Description by John Steinbeck on “ma” and poem on Mother Nature in spring. (May 2024)

Edna St. Vincent Millay poetry – “Everywhere I look you are – but you’re nowhere…” poem on death of her loved one. (Mar. 2009)

Heaven – Mother meets her child in heaven that had died (Eugene Field) & “Just in Case You Ever Wonder” by Max Lucado (Dec. 2009)

Missing mother’s love as an adult woman. “Rock Me to Sleep” poem by Elizabeth Akers Allen (May 2013)

Motherhood. Thoughts after being thought of as “narrow” because a mother. “A Lantern in Her Hand” by Bess Streeter Aldrich (Dec. 2009)

Mothers. Entering Scenes of Past with Mother, Grandmother, Great-grandmother by Bess Streeter Aldrich (May 2017)

Mothers “Invisible Women” – Analogy of working with children to building a cathedral. Lifetime investment of time. (Sept. 2007)

Mothers with daughters entering Adulthood “Traveling with Pomegranates: A Mother-Daughter Story” by Sue Monk Kidd (Sept. 2010)

Mother’s Impact on Son. “That’s My Son: How Moms Can Influence Boys to Become Men of Character” by Rick Johnson (Sept. 2010)

Mother’s Time with Child & Quotes on Children (March 2011)

Pain from death of our mothers. Letters from Motherless Daughters edited by Hope Edelman (June 2015)

Nature:

A Night Prayer by Erasmus (1469-1536). Nighttime Psalms. Celtic Night Prayer (April 2023)

Bearing Gracefully Pain & Hardship. Butterfly bringing hope. (August 2006)

Beautiful Unstoppable Moments in Creation and Life. (June 2008)

Beauty of springtime. Teacher’s thoughts on unable to help students entirely. Pursuing excellence. “Nearby” by Elizabeth Yates. (January 2015)

Birds Singing in Winter. Quotes and Poetry on our Little Friends (February 2022)

Child’s view of God poetry. Quotes on God being found in nature. (June 2024)

Creation. Butterfly & Child (July 2006) Nature helping fight sadness. “Achieving Peace of Heart” by Rev. Irala. (Apr. 2008)

Creation “Singing a place back into existence” Love of nature. “The Olive Farm” by Carol Drinkwater (Oct. 2024)

Creation worshipping God. “The Diver” short story in “Anecdotes of Destiny” by Isak Dinesen (March 2008)

cDaisy Quotes & Poetry (June 2024)

“Dear March” by Emily Dickinson.  Poem on Wind. (March 2011)

Description by John Steinbeck on “ma” and poem on Mother Nature in spring. (May 2024)

Description of birds greeting the day in Rwanda. Bird quotes. (June 2014)

Fairy Poetry by Rose Fyleman and Quotes on Fairies (January 2016)

Famous quotes and poetry on flowers (April 2024)

Gardening Quotes and involvement in nature. (June 2020)

Love of birds. Quotes, Hymns, Poems on Birds. (Aug. 2012)

Madame Guyon (1717) Freedom of Heart & Mind Poem (on freedom of soul regardless of circumstances) (April 2012)

Morning light. Spring Flowers & Rain. Spring Quotes. Grief. (May 2019)

Music bestowed to a child at birth.  “The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto” by Mitch Alborn (January 2023)

Music Poetry and Quotes. Music feeding our souls. (July 2015)

Nature calming restless spirit. Pursuit of stillness. “The Years” by Virginia Woolf (Mar. 2007)

Poems on Winter. Early Darkness & Cat in the Evening Snow. (Jan. 2009)

Sioux Warrior Poem. Thoughts on warriors. (April 2020)

St. Francis of Assisi song at the end of his life & St. Francis de Sales Prayer and Quotes (Nov 2022)

Stars. Beautiful Poetry and Famous Quotes. (Dec. 2015)

Strength from Shadows and Gift of White Flower Buds (August 2022)

Tom Sawyer observing Nature awakening. Promise of dawn. (February 2022)

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star – Helen Keller’s encouragement to use our senses. Star Quotes. (October 2021)

Waiting for cactus to blossom.  Anticipation.  Astonishment.  God compared to a cactus. (February 2018)

Winter and Freezing Quotes (January 2024)

Winter “In All It’s Fury: The Great Blizzard 1888″ by W.H. O’Gara (January 2023)

Poetry:

Analysis of Baseball Poem. Garrison Keillor’s “Good Poems: Selected & Introduced by Garrison Keillor” (July 2008)

The Arms of a Child. Poem by Mary Zachmeyer (love this!) – (Jan. 2008)

Beautiful poems for springtime. Rain. Heaven. Dreams. Beauty. (April 2014)

Child’s view of God poetry. Quotes on God being found in nature. (June 2024)

Children being our living poems – by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (May 2015)

“The Children’s Hour” poem by Longfellow. Playing with children during long afternoon hours (June 2010)

Children’s Poetry “Julie Andrews’ Collection of Poems. Songs. Lullabies.” (Dec 2009)

“Dear March” by Emily Dickinson.  Poem on Wind. (March 2011)

Description by John Steinbeck on “ma” and poem on Mother Nature in spring. (May 2024)

Description of a true home. “A Heap O’Living” Poem by Edgar A. Guest (May 2008)

Difficult Times – Bad Luck Good Luck Fable (Apr 2008)

Edna St. Vincent Millay poetry – “Everywhere I look you are – but you’re nowhere…” poem on death of her loved one. (Mar. 2009)

Eternal Perspective. Madam Guyon (1648-1717) quotes and poetry. (Nov. 2014)

Famous quotes and poetry on flowers (April 2024)

Giving God our burdens. “Lean Hard” poem. (Nov. 2007)

Hold Fast Your Dreams poem by Louise Driscoll. Dreaming amidst suffering. (May 2013)

If I Can Stop One Heart from Breaking. Poetry of Emily Dickinson (Aug. 2007)

“Liberty” poem by Paul Eluard dropped over occupied France during WW2 (March 2015)

Little hands of our children…”playing on the vibrant harp-strings of my heart” “Baby Fingers” poem. (Aug. 2009)

Living life fully regardless of circumstances. Impact of poetry on lives. “The Lesson of the Moth” poem by Don Marquis (July 2008)

Looking at ourselves in mirror. Analyzing self. “I Never Promised You a Rose Garden” (August 2021)

Madame Guyon (1717) Freedom of Heart & Mind Poem (on freedom of soul regardless of circumstances) (April 2012)

Missing mother’s love as an adult woman. “Rock Me to Sleep” poem by Elizabeth Akers Allen (May 2013)

A Mother’s Song by Hester Suthers. Poem to unborn child on beauty of life even amidst pain. (June 2013)

Mourning losses in life compared to phases of the moon. Poem “Shadows in the Light” by Robert Lavery (Oct. 2007)

Music.  Beautiful quotes and poetry. (July 2022)

“My Daily Prayer” Poem with various quotes on kindness (August 2019)

New Year’s Poetry and Quotations (January 2014)

Poem on a Beautiful Woman and Chinese Tale of Joy/Sorrow by Eleanor Farjeon (January 2013)

Poem on mother letting go of season of daughter being young girl. Daughter’s change into young woman. “The Blossom” by Eayan Boland (Dec. 2008)

Poems from Susan’s Childhood (Jan. 2008)

Poems from the Middle East (June 2023)

Poems on quiet moments of evening. Middle of night. Early Morning. Beauty in the Quiet. (June 2023)

Poems on raising children, singing to children, letting children leave home (March 2014)

Poems on Winter. Early Darkness & Cat in the Evening Snow. (Jan. 2009)

Poetry by Indian Mystic and Saint Kabir (January 2024)

Psalm 23 Poetry and Translations (September 2017)

Solitude and Memories Poetry (February 2020)

Sunshine. Sun. Summer Poems and Quotes (June 2019)

Thoughts for each other during the day. “Telepathy” poem by Michael Dennis Browne. (Jan. 2010)

Time. Precious. Beautiful Moments. Taking Time to Appreciate Life in the Present (Apr. 2007)

“We are Seven” Child’s View of of siblings buried by William Wordsworth from 1798 (Jan. 2024)

Prayers:

A Night Prayer by Erasmus (1469-1536). Nighttime Psalms. Celtic Night Prayer (April 2023)

A Prayer by Max Ehrmann. Beautiful century old prayers (June 2020)

Beautiful Classic Prayers Centuries Old (March 2024)

Blessings and Prayers from various religions and cultures. (March 2021)

Century-Old Prayers compiled by Elizabeth Yates (October 2022)

Change, Accepting & Growing…Susan’s Analogy to Simmering Pot of Soup (Sept. 2007)

Daisy Quotes & Poetry (June 2024)

Desire for solitude. Creativity. Prayer. “Firstlight” by Sue Monk Kidd (Aug. 2008)

Diaries and Letters of Anne Lindbergh – Goodbyes. Soul. Strength. Prayer. Grief (July 2008 & Aug 2011)

Difficult Times – Verses of Promises from God (Jan. 2007)

God’s Involvement in Caring for Us. “Jesus Calling” Devotional by Sarah Young (Mar. 2010)

Great is Thy Faithfulness Hymn. Quotes on Mercy (July 2010)

Max Ehrmann Poetry and Prayer on finding beauty in life. (September 2016)

Morning Prayer. Trust. Hope. Responsibility to Life. (October 2020)

Prayer defined as opening of tight fist. “With Open Hands” by Henri Nouwen (Oct. 2008)

Prayer. Heaven. Goodness. Forgiveness. “The Lamplighter” by Maria Cummins (September 2024)

Prayer. Our Creator desires our prayers. Our relationship. Our tears. Our joy. Our speaking with him all day long in our minds. “Jesus Calling” by Sarah Young (Mar. 2010)

Prayer. Soul. “The Interior Castle” by Teresa of Avila written in the 1500s. (Dec. 2011)

Prayers and Letting go of Past “Live with Intention: Rediscovering What we Deeply Know” by Mary Anne Radmacher (March 2012)

Psalms. God’s deep love for us. God using nighttime hours to give us peace. (May 2007)

Quotes and poetry on stillness. Grace Crowell. (March 2022)

Quotes on Prayer. Writing on prayer found in a used book donation to the store. (July 2013)

Scottish Blessing and beautiful Carthusian Prayer from 12th Century (November 2020)

Songs Prayers Poems from “Saying Grace: Blessings for the Family Table” (February 2015)

Too Tired to Pray. “Streams in the Desert” (July 2009)

Quotations:

Agatha Christie’s Memories. Thoughts on her life being part of an unknown play. Quotes on memory and soul. (April 2017)

Birds Singing in Winter. Quotes and Poetry on our Little Friends (February 2022)

Blessings and Quotes on Sleep and Nighttime Hours. (September 2022)

Book Quotes from “Book Notes: A Reader’s Journal” (April 2009)

Character Quotes. Being the person others think that you are. (April 2009)

Child’s view of God poetry. Quotes on God being found in nature. (June 2024)

Creation “Singing a place back into existence” Love of nature. “The Olive Farm” by Carol Drinkwater (Oct. 2024)

Daisy Quotes & Poetry (June 2024)

Description of birds greeting the day in Rwanda. Bird quotes. (June 2014)

Desert Wisdom: Sayings from the Desert Fathers (compiled in the 4th & 5th centuries) (January 2022)

Details.  Making bed each morning lesson by Admiral Bill McRaven.  Details matter.  Quotes on Details.  (February 2023)

“Do Good and Disappear” (September 2019)

Eternal Perspective. Madam Guyon (1648-1717) quotes and poetry. (Nov. 2014)

Fairy Poetry by Rose Fyleman and Quotes on Fairies (January 2016)

Famous quotes and poetry on flowers (April 2024)

Friendships. Girlfriends. “Lots of Candles, Plenty of Cake” by Anne Quindlen. (June 2012)

Gardening Quotes and involvement in nature. (June 2020)

Helping Others Secretly. Giving to find meaning. Kindness quotes. “Doctor Hudson’s Spiritual Journal” by Lloyd Douglas (March 2023)

Imagination Quotes. “Is there a Santa Claus?” NY Editorial 1897 (Dec 2015)

Inspirational Quotes from Centuries Ago to Present (November 2017)

Louisa May Alcott Quotes (October 2014)

Love of birds. Quotes, Hymns, Poems on Birds. (Aug. 2012)

Love of Books & Book Quotes “The Master Violin” by Myrtle Reed (Jan. 2011)

Mark Twain – Epitaph on Daughter’s Stone and Misc. Twain Quotes (Sept. 2015)

Moxie Quotations. David had it. Goliath didn’t! (June 2019)

Music.  Beautiful quotes and poetry. (July 2022)

Music Poetry and Quotes. Music feeding our souls. (July 2015)

“My Daily Prayer” Poem with various quotes on kindness (Feb. 2011)

New Year’s Poetry and Quotations (January 2014)

Perseverance Quotes (Jan. 2011)

Prayer. Striving to see good. Looking heavenward. Kindness and grace quotes. “In this House of Brede” by Rumer Godden (Apr. 2009)

Quotes and poetry on silence. Being present in friendships. (Nov 2014)

Quotes by Maya Angelou (February 2015)

Quotes by Ralph Waldo Emerson and Essay on Choosing Great Books (Nov. 2013)

Quotes from Anne of Green Gables Series (August 2015)

Quotes – Misc. Great Ones! (July 2012)

Quotes on love by Mother Teresa. Helen Keller. (Valentine’s Day Feb. 2013)

Quotes on Self-Respect. Knowing yourself. Handling criticism, Trusting yourself “The Joy Luck Club” by Amy Tan. (October 2015)

Rabindranath Tagore Quotes on beauty of life. Keeping eternal perspective. (September 2022)

Resolutions of Jonathan Edwards. Inspiring Quotes. Love of Words (April 2012)

Snoopy Quotes (grin) (March 2009)

St. Frances de Sales and St. Francis of Assisi Quotes. Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio taking name Pope Francis. (March 2013)

St. Francis of Assisi song at the end of his life & St. Francis de Sales Prayer and Quotes (Nov 2022)

Stars. Beautiful Poetry and Famous Quotes. (Dec. 2015)

Sunshine. Sun. Summer Poems and Quotes (June 2019)

Winnie the Pooh Quotes by A.A. Milne (June 2015)

Winter and Freezing Quotes (January 2024)

Relationships

Change, Accepting & Growing…Susan’s Analogy to Simmering Pot of Soup (Sept. 2007)

Complexity of Mother/Daughter Relationship. Death of Mother. “Birthday Parties in Heaven” by Ana Veciana-Suarez (May 2006)

Elderly friend who loved us as a child dying. Passage of time. “Local Wonders by Ted Kooser” (May 2013 & Mar 2007)

Friendships. Vulnerability in Relationships. “Braveheart” by Sharon Hersh (May 2008)

Heaven – Mother meets her child in heaven that had died (Eugene Field) & “Just in Case You Ever Wonder” by Max Lucado (Dec. 2009)

Helping Others Secretly. Giving to find meaning. Kindness quotes. “Doctor Hudson’s Spiritual Journal” by Lloyd Douglas (March 2023)

Importance of Relationships (even though pain comes at the end of all relationships)…not just existing. “The Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exupery (June 2009)

Prayer. Heaven. Goodness. Forgiveness. “The Lamplighter” by Maria Cummins (September 2024)

Quotes and poetry on silence. Being present in friendships. (Nov 2014)

Quotes on Self-Respect. Knowing yourself. Handling criticism, Trusting yourself “The Joy Luck Club” by Amy Tan. (October 2015)

Regrets in life. Forgiving yourself. “For One More Day” by Mitch Alborn (Oct. 2006)

Relationships & Death of mothers. (Heaven Reflections on Death of Susan’s Mother) (Jan. 2008)

Simplicity

Entering God’s Presence. Perspective Changes. “Secret of the Secret Place” (Oct. 2007)

Nature calming restless spirit. Pursuit of stillness. “The Years” by Virginia Woolf (Mar. 2007)

Priority Setting. Goals “Never Check E-Mail in the Mornings” by Julie Morgenstern (Aug. 2009)

Simplicity and Love for Books “Simple Abundance” by Sarah Ban Breathnach (Jan. 2009)

Solitude

Desire for solitude. Creativity. Prayer. “Firstlight” by Sue Monk Kidd (Aug. 2008)

Entering God’s Presence. Perspective Changes. “Secret of the Secret Place” (Oct. 2007)

Inner stillness. Knowing yourself. Return to the Sea by Anne Johnson (Nov 2007)

Loneliness & Despair. Search for meaningful life – “Work” by Louisa May Alcott (Jan. 2019)

Madame Guyon (1717) Freedom of Heart & Mind Poem (on freedom of soul regardless of circumstances) (April 2012)

Nature calming restless spirit. Pursuit of stillness. “The Years” by Virginia Woolf (Mar. 2007)

Poems on quiet moments of evening. Middle of night. Early Morning. Beauty in the Quiet. (June 2023)

Prayer defined as opening of tight fist. “With Open Hands” by Henri Nouwen (Oct. 2008)

Quotes and poetry on silence. Being present in friendships. (Nov 2014)

Quotes and poetry on stillness. Grace Crowell. (March 2022)

Room where thoughts from morning await reentry in the evening. Thinking clearly alone. “Song of the Lark” by Willa Cather (Aug. 2007)

Solitude and memories poetry (February 2020)

Time

Angel of Dawn poem by J.S. Cutler (New day bringing new gift) (June 2011)

Coexisting with Unresolved & Embracing Imperfection “Creating a Charmed Life” by Victoria Moran (Mar. 2007 & 2011)

Hourglass analogy to handling life. Focusing on today, not past or tomorrow. Sir William Osler and Dr. James Gordon (September 2024)

Nature calming restless spirit. Pursuit of stillness. “The Years” by Virginia Woolf (Mar. 2007)

Perseverance Quotes (Jan. 2011)

Priority Setting. Goals “Never Check E-Mail in the Mornings” by Julie Morgenstern (Aug. 2009)

Setting Goals. Evaluating Things to Do by Priority “Eat That Frog” by Brian Tracy (April 2008)

Time Passing so Quickly “Lantern in Her Hand” by Bess Streeter Aldrich (Dec. 2009)

Women – Striving to Excel

Aging “Forward from Here: Leaving Middle Age and Other Unexpected Adventures” by Reeve Lindbergh (Nov. 2008)

Beautiful woman behind the scenes “In this House of Brede” by Rumer Godden (Apr. 2009)

Being Yourself “Just Who Will You Be” by Maria Shriver (Aug. 2008)

Being Yourself. Rope Analogy. Especially as a Mother. Wife. Creator. Thoughts of Anne Lindbergh (Jan. 2008)

Beauty of living. Choices. The soul. Falling in love with literature. Pursuing LIFE rather than enduring life. (Dec. 2008)

Character of a Woman. “Uncommon Beauty: 7 Qualities of a Beautiful Woman” by Cynthia Heald (Sept. 2010)

Character Quotes. Being the person others think that you are. (April 2009)

Desire for solitude. Creativity. Prayer. “Firstlight” by Sue Monk Kidd (Aug. 2008)

Giving entire life to others “Babette’s Feast” was gift to self. Being a great “artist”. “Ah, how you will enchant the angels!” by Isak Dinesen (August 2017)

Lady vs. Woman – Journals of Anne Lindbergh and Proverbs 31. (Mar. 2009)

Letters of Florence Nightingale – Her desire for intellectual growth (July 2022)

Life “is a play we are playing all the time. Play in earnest.” “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott (Dec. 2007)

Living Fully as an Older Woman “Warning: When I am Old Woman I Shall Wear Purple” by Jenny Joseph (April 2009)

Reflections at the age of 40 on growth in life – “Work” by Louisa May Alcott (Jan. 2019)

Solitude in Finding Balance (in Roles as a Woman) “Gift from the Sea” by Anne Lindbergh (June 2007)

Woman relating herself to different times of her life..herself as young girl and young woman. (Aug. 2014)

Woman Sighing Poem (grin) “Simple Abundance” by Sarah Ban Breathnach (May 2010)

Writing

Quotes on Books – “Book Notes Journal” (May 2008)

Writing to Change. Cope. Grow – “The Sound of Paper” by Julia Cameron (Sept. 2007)