Holiday Season

Because Sometimes, Change is Good

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Where did the year go? For me, it was truly a whirlwind that swept me in many directions, expected and unexpected, some good, some not so good; however here I am, thankful for it all, and looking forward to next year experiences, whatever they might be. It is life; it means I am alive and open to God’s plan for my life. This is my last post for the year, and I was not sure of what to write to end the year. I did not want it to be another holiday post, so here I am, winging it. Just think of it as a conversation from the heart.

Sometimes, we let ourselves be influenced by others, whether that be media, friends, family, acquaintances, influencers, groups, religion, politics … You name it. Everyone has anything to say about how we should live and plan our existence, but when we think about it, nobody really has the answers. Life is given to us to experience and fulfill it, one day, moment, second at a time. When you think about it, it is beautiful. We were presented with this gift that we did not ask for, and we have the freedom to live it. Whatever things are thrown in the package, it is all ours to make something of it. We are all one big conglomerate in the human race; we all want to live a happy and peaceful, joyful life. We are more similar than not. Hate is a disease, it is sickness. Love is a cure. We decide. We might be influenced, negatively or positively, but we decide. We decide how to act, react, and what to let into our life, what we give our attention to, and how we live day by day. In the end, we only have this day, and sometimes, not even a full one; our seconds are in the hand of our Creator, but so are our blessings. Does it really matter if someone else has more than you? or if you did not meet your goals this year? Does it? When I think about it, and in the big scheme of the journey, it truly does not. I don’t know how long my journey is, no one does, so why not choose love over sickness, inner peace over discontent, gladness over bitterness, and hope, especially hope. The journey is meaningless without hope, and faith.

I hope that you embrace the holiday season and next year with hope, faith, and at peace with yourself, the rest will come when it needs to come. When God made you, he knew who he made, but also, your journey. Your journey is not meant to be stationary; it is meant to be full of change, and change brings growth, knowledge, and understanding, and with understanding comes kindness, and with kindness, love. In that sense, change is good.

I wish you and yours a joyous holiday season and may next year be filled with the kind of blessings that only come from above, the best kind, in my opinion. Merry Christmas! God bless you all.

Love and Light,

Inkspeare

For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6 NKJ)

Best of Wishes

/ inkspeare

It is a windy and rainy day; I love days like this one. I can see leaves falling and hear the wind, as the raindrops hit the window glass. There is a mystifying and peaceful feeling about it, very serene. I feel tucked-in, secure inside, the warmth of home. I guess nature mimics that feeling, because all critters do the same; they are nestled in their habitats. On days like this one, one can help it but reminisce and hope for the promises of the new year. Soon, the holidays will be here and gone, and we are left with the expectation of a brand-new year, a fresh opportunity to do better, but in reality, every brand-new day is just that, a gift, a new opportunity. Whether to keep on going, to start over, or simply, be grateful for what is, it is a blessed gift. Some people say, “what matters is this moment;” but I think that what matters is what I do with this moment; we all have to live it, one way or another.

When we cease to exist, moments do not matter anymore; it all blends into eternity. I guess where we’ll spend it matters. Challenges come and go, dreams do as well. We live and give meaning and purpose to our living or we strive looking for it. If we find it, we count ourselves lucky, blessed; if we don’t, we search all our life, or feel cursed, not knowing that the mere act of living has purpose in itself, if we dare to see. Life reveals itself. It reveals its miracles every single day, and all of it in the midst of our challenges and blessings. The breath of the Creator is in every one of us. Every time that we open our eyes to receive the blessing of another day is reason enough, purpose in itself, to make the best of what we are given. Life will never be perfect, and there will always be challenges, ups and downs, the unexpected, and the undesirable, but with it, also the human God-given capacity to dream, to hope, to love, and to feel every second of our experience here, until we come home.

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulder; and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6

“May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord shine his face upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up his face upon you and give you peace.” Numbers 6: 24-26

Wishing you a very merry Christmas, a happy holiday season, and a blessed new year.

Have I Loved Enough?

/ inkspeare
Photo by M.A.D.

As the holiday season approaches, and nature prepares for a deep sleep, I reminisce about the year and mentally review what transcurred, blessings and challenges considered. I cannot help but feel a sense of gratitude and humility, hope as well. Reviewing these events brings me a sense of grounding, but I also think of what I could have done better. I realize that at times, I should extend a bit of kindness to myself as to others. The hopeful outlook and anticipation of the new year set the stage for receiving what will be, whether challenging or not. One thing I ask myself is, have I loved enough this year? I realize the answer to that question will always be, “you can love more.” That is true for everyone. We can always extend our kindness and love more, each time being more understanding of others and less judgmental. Over the years, I have understood that I must strive to love everyone, whether I agree or disagree with their lifestyle or life choices.

God loves everyone the same, and I am not better in His eyes than another of His children. Yes, He doesn’t love me more. The same love He has for me, He has for the drug addict, the prostitute, the murderer, the rapist, the witch or the devil worshipper. In His eyes, they are also His children, and He wants them to come home to Him. His arms are always open for the ones who ask for forgiveness. Once I “understood” the immensity of His love for all His creation, I learned another dimension of love and kindness, one that is not so quick to judge, one of humility and understanding. It is under that humble approach that I ask myself, “Have I loved enough this year?”

Love and Light

Sweet December

/ inkspeare

Here in Southern Virginia, December is milder in comparison to Jersey, however, when it is cold, you can feel it in your bones, deep in your bones. Sunday, I woke up in the middle of the night and looked through the window; it was snowing, a little surprise since we were not expecting anything in our area, and it had been raining all day. It was a decent dusting that certainly spoke of dreaming of a white Christmas.

It is beginning to look a lot like Christmas. (Photo by M.A.D.)

Christmas decor has become simpler for us since we moved here, especially outdoors. Indoors, I like little touches here and there, not too much, a little something in each room. Life has become simpler in many ways.

I have always liked the look of two potted trees at each side of the front door, and a wreath, but I did not want to spend money on two artificial trees and large wreath, so I made mine. From time to time, I might find a little cedar tree growing in an area where it should not. I remove it and plant it in a pot until it grows large enough (about 12 inches) to be replanted in the perimeter of the property. I have been growing three tiny cedars that were about 2-3 inches when I found them, all on the same day. These have grown quite lovely. These grow fast. I planted one on a cement urn. It will become an outdoor Christmas tree. Now its branches are not strong enough to support a string of lights, so I attached a bow.

Little cedar growing to become a Christmas tree. (Photo by M.A.D.)

I planted the other two cedars on large pots and placed them at each side of the front door. These look lovely and will continue to grow. When these become too big for the porch, I will plant them on our property, and I will keep an eye for any little cedars that can take their place on the porch.

Little Cedars in training. (Photo by M.A.D.)
I made the wreath from recycled ornaments and greenery that I already had.

Here, December is a prelude to the colder months, and temperatures and weather are all over the place; one day could be freezing, the next day, very warm. Overall, I have found summer to be hot and humid, and winter, cold and wet, and not every year we get a considerable amount of snow. In fact, one year did not snow at all. I find the weather here very variable. Do I miss the Jersey blizzards? No, but I do miss other things.

A little stroll around town during the season is magical. The town dresses up for the holidays, and in a warm evening, it is enjoyable.

A little bit of history. (Photo by M.A.D.)
Lighting the lanterns in the evening is a Chatham tradition. (Photo by M.A.D.)
The many lights around town are just lovely. (Photo by M.A.D.)
Almost as if straight out of a Thomas Kinkade painting. (Photo by M.A.D.)
People love to see the decorations on this home. (Photo by M.A.D.)

Stores dress up their windows as well. I have fallen in love with the magic of this little town.

For me, December is also a month of deep reflection in many areas of my life. A month of planning for the new year and of dreaming as well. But most important, it is when I celebrate the birth of my King and Savior, Jesus Christ, reflecting in all that it means and also, all the joy and beauty of the season: friends, family, decorations, food, traditions … It is all good, all a blessing.

Photo by M.A.D.

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6 KJV

This will be my last post for this year. I want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy Holiday Season. May your lives be filled with all the joy and love of God, and may your New Year be filled with all His blessings. Until next time.

Love and Light,

Maria Antonia Diaz

In Retrospect, and a Farmhouse Christmas

/ inkspeare

Just a few more weeks until the end of the year, and for us it means closing projects and getting ready for winter. According to The Old Farmers Almanac, we should expect a cold and wet winter. If they are right, that means planning ahead for many things such as pellet fuel and other weather-related items. During winter, the focus shifts from the outdoors to indoors, and all outdoor projects cease. In retrospect, what I have learned throughout the renovation process of this old farmhouse can be summed up in one phrase besides hard work, and that is adding value. For those not familiar with this blog – my husband and I purchased a dilapidated 1910 farmhouse and set out to fix it one step at a time, for the long term. At that point, there was not much value on the structure, but the land and a good foundation. We realized that anything we were to do to the structure would increase its value over time. Our main goal has been to build value over time. We had a minimal budget to make it livable, and from that point on to improve it. One of the things we focused on due to budget limits was to forgo “the fancy” and go for solid materials, whether recycled or new, and at a discount from various sources, preferably. We obtained materials through different venues: contractor surplus, Craigslist, discount stores, antique shops … and some we bought new from home improvement stores, but always minding sales and sticking to the budget.

At first, we prioritized on adding value vs curve appeal or latest trends. One of the main reasons for that was realizing that because we planned on living here for a long time, the newest and fanciest of materials would become “dated” over time, thus losing appeal for future buyers. It was the opposite approach to flipping a home, where the focus is to attract new buyers quickly. Adding value over time will continue to be the focus, until the time comes to sell, which will probably be in our late golden years. By now, we have more than tripled our initial investment, and we are satisfied with that. There is much more to be done “at budget,” however, always keeping in mind adding value. Curve appeal will continue to be added small bits at a time, which will enhance value. Adding value to a property can be done by adding features that stand the test of time or improving existing ones. Also, features that appreciate with time instead of depreciating. A good example would be adding land, or even building an addition that recuperates the initial investment plus, over time. Creating an attractive landscape is another way.

The concept of adding value can be applied to writing or anything in life. When I started this blog many years ago, I set out to write about two journeys at once, writing my novels and restoring this farmhouse. Both journeys have been rewarding and enjoyable; however, far from finished, more half-way into the journey. As long as I keep my focus on value and not on trends, quantity, or fast-paced agendas, I will be fine and on time.

I will share a few pictures of this old farmhouse decked for the holidays. It has been a long (and rewarding) way. Hope you enjoy them.

I hope you are inspired to give the old a second chance, and to keep on going toward your goal, whatever that might be, defying the odds.

I will end this post with a favorite quote.

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

2 Timothy 4:7

Garden Offerings, Better Late than Never, and a Thankful Heart

/ inkspeare
Yummy carrots (photo by M.A.D.)
Sweet potatoes that look like carrots (Photo by M.A.D.)

Here in the USA, we will be celebrating Thanksgiving Day very soon, on November 23rd. For many, it marks the start of the Holiday season; others call it Turkey Day, in reference to the main dish served, roasted turkey. When I think about it, there is so much to be thankful for, not only on that day, but every single day. From the moment I open my eyes to receive a brand-new day the simple blessings are many. Take a moment and think about it; even that first cup of coffee is a blessing not to be taken for granted.

It is easy to be thankful when everything is going well in our lives, but not so easy when things are not working as expected or when undesirable and sad events happen. It is then when a thankful heart, although difficult, will benefit us the most. It will open the door to peace within, even in the middle of the storm. Giving sincere and heartfelt thanks to our God when we feel “less blessed and challenged” will humble our soul and will be a step taken in order for us to appreciate what is good in our lives, which is plenty.

Being thankful in the midst of sad or painful situations is not easy, but it is a start, one that gets noticed by the same God that only wants to shower us with blessings. When everything is going fine in our lives, sometimes, we forget and take for granted many things, many people. We might want more, become unhappy with the status quo, and totally disregard our daily blessings. Sometimes, what brings us into focus are the same things we dread or fear, and those things become a tool to bring us back to a state of appreciation, and therefore, a grateful heart. Every day presents an opportunity to be thankful. Happy Thanksgiving Day!

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace.

Romans 15:13 NIV

The Lord is faithful to all His promises and loving toward all He has made.

Psalm 145:13 NIV

Let us come before Him with thanksgiving.

Psalm 95:2 NIV

Happy Beginnings

/ inkspeare

Happy Beginnings to all of you. I am grateful and excited to start one more year. I have chosen a few pictures from 2021 and this new year to share on this post, kind of a rite of passage into the new.

2021

Last year displayed some beautiful colors. This photo has not been altered.
And lovely fiery red evenings.

A new friend has been showing up since the end of last year.

I never get tired of watching them. Black Crow Cottage is still a good fit, as I named the place.

One of my favorite delights thanks to my sister who has made it a tradition for me. Heavenly. Totally understand why the Narnia kid went along with the winter witch at the mention of Turkish Delight.

Made a recycled wreath to receive the season.

Our historic little town was ready for an old-fashioned Christmas and so was I (and my kitty cats).

2022

The year started with some snow, rose gold mornings, and many critters (and man) prancing through the snow.

And through all of it, I saw the hand of God and His love.

Hope you enjoyed this post.

The Greatest Gift – A Simple Call

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Christmas is just around the corner, the best season of all. Even in darkness Christmas makes everything better. The true and only meaning of Christmas happens to be the greatest gift of all – Jesus Christ the Lord. It is the reason for celebrating Christmas. Many might advocate for a “christless” Christmas but there wouldn’t be a Christmas without Christ. When I think of all the gifts that I have received throughout my entire life, and even the ones that I will receive during my lifetime, there is nothing that would compare or be better than the gift God gave us because of His immense love – salvation through redemption, and that can only be done by believing in Jesus Christ. When you and I believe that Jesus came for you and me to give us the eternal life (and benefits) that was stolen from us in the beginning, our closeness to God, and that He sacrificed his life for you and me, thus paying the price for us, and when we accept that sacrifice in our hearts, with repentance and desire to start anew, that is all it takes to be a part of God’s family again, and be closer to Him once more. God’s love is that huge, but it is also simple. Believe in Jesus Christ, be truly sorry in your heart, and you will be restored. Many might want to make it complicated, full of human pomposity, restrictions and requirements, but God made it straight clear so you and me could come back to Him. Jesus doesn’t equal religion (a most misunderstood concept). There is nothing on this planet I can compare to the love of Jesus Christ, and there will never be anything like it.

So why am I getting all “holy” on this post? Because soon it will be Christmas. So this Christmas, while we celebrate the season with our loved ones, think about this amazing gift, and see if you find space in your heart to accept it. It is a gift exchange between you and Him. It is a simple call.

Many blessings to you and your loved ones. Merry Christmas and a beautiful Holiday season to you all. I will be back blogging next year.

A Holy Night

/ inkspeare
Nativity – Photo by M.A.D.

Christmas is just around the corner. My favorite time of the year. The reason for the season is the best part of it, the most sublime gift – Jesus Christ, King of kings. Most years, I try to write a poem for this blog during this time. I know 2020 has not been a kind year for anyone, but we should welcome the season in our hearts and be thankful that we are still around, and for many other blessings that whether we realize or not, have happened throughout this dreadful year.

A Holy Night

On a cold December night,

outside I stepped, to see the stars.

The moon shone bright,

the air was crisp.

My heart too sad to think of Him.

*

A tear I felt, and many more.

A cloud passed by

the moon it cloaked.

A heart too tired,

A heavy load.

*

Far in the sky, a light above.

A twinkling star,

Its light bestowed.

Far down below

my heart just stopped.

*

A voice I heard

deep in my heart.

“My child I am here.”

“Of you I think,

your heart I hear.”

*

The star I saw

Announced His love,

his gift bestowed.

Born is the King,

Jesus, pure love.

I will be back in January. I am very grateful for every reader and visitor of this blog, and I wish everyone a beautiful season and many blessings for 2021. Lets hang in there; this too shall pass.

The Turkey That Keeps On Giving

/ inkspeare

Thanksgiving day was not the same this year. I decided to cook a turkey just for the two of us, and a small traditional thanksgiving meal. I shared the meal with my neighbor, and saved a few leftovers for today, and to use in future cooking. One thing that I enjoy doing with the rest of the picked turkey (the parts that I will not use) is to place the entire pan outside for any critters to enjoy – cats, meat-eating birds and many other critters. Usually, by the next day, the pan is licked clean and the carcass gone or spread out in a few bones without any meat left. Then, we place it into a garbage bag to be disposed.

Today, I was able to capture a few vultures and crows joining in to enjoy the rest of the turkey. I took the pictures silently, from inside, through the window with a screen, so I would not scare them, hence why they are not perfect and a bit hazy, but I will share them anyhow.

This pan is empty now; all turkey juice gone as well as the turkey.
Not much left of that turkey.
Crows and Vulture join in.
It seems satisfied enough.
This one is standing on my neighbor’s roof. From a distance, and especially when they are all together, they look the same, but they are not. Look at the face and feathers, and the color of the legs and beak as well.

It is nice to know that all the turkey was used, and the outdoor critters enjoyed it as well.