Tuesday, March 11, 2014

Step Closer

Photography and Writing Copyrighted by Suzanne J. Fernald


See that tree branch
The one hanging low

Look a little further
There’s another

How sturdy the tree stands
Shall we rest awhile in His shade?

Refresh
Breeze

Look how the leaves shuffle about
Breathe deeply and inhale nature’s fragrance



Come, lets step closer 
to the Branch reaching for us

The Sun shines on its leaves creating an imprint


The Reflection

Can you feel it upon your cheek?

 Step into the Light.

Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Starting Fresh



For a lot of us, this has been a year of losses, growing pains and “stretching”.  Feeling capacity has maxed out at times.  I’ve referred to my 2013 year as a whirlwind. 

Merriam-Webster Dictionary describes Whirlwind as 1) “a very strong wind that moves in a spinning or swirling motion and that can damage buildings, trees, etc..” 2) “something that involves many quickly changing events, feelings, etc.”

Traditions changed, relationships have come and gone for a season, expectations - a continual flow of alterations.  Finding it difficult to catch my breath at times...

Going out of my comfort zone (on purpose!) on many levels has stretched me in (positive) ways that can’t currently be explained…

I began this year with three focus words that have contributed to personal growth: Gratitude, Presence and Discernment.   

Gratitude for:  home, food, health, family and friends, each new day with God.

Presence – being “present” (with attitude, attention, “on time” and with an expectant heart to see what God is going to do).  Whether it is a meeting, with family or friends, outdoors – make it count. Putting away the techy stuff, giving "face time" and listening to other people speak, asking questions - being a friend.   

Discernment – Making good choices on what I read, see (visuals), hear, writing in text or online.  The company I keep – it all affects my atmosphere and those around. To be cognitive of my words before spoken, and thoughts entering my mind.  Selective and intentional.  Time is a gift. 


End of year reflecting - things planned to do, people desired to spend time with… It didn’t happen this month.  The swirling of activities, being pulled in multiple directions… this is one of the craziest Decembers experienced in a long time.  Feeling just shy of a “breakdown”, I could become upset with myself - but I’m not going to do it.   

Another one of life's learning experiences.  Let's call it "end of the year stretches”.   God desires for me to rest upon Him.  Refocusing and looking ahead, God is revealing to Start Fresh.  
 
"But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; 
they shall mount up with wings as eagles; 
they shall run, and not be weary; and 
they shall walk, and not faint." Isaiah 40:31 (KJV)

What are my focus word(s) for this New Year?  Still listening to my Whisper (God).  What word(s) do you plan to use?

2014 Isn't a new beginning - It's a Fresh Start.  I like that. 

Happy New Year ~ Peace & Joy ~ Suzanne

Friday, August 2, 2013

Once Upon A Time Suzanne Fernald Guest Posting via Artist Laly Mille!

Happy Summer!

I am thrilled and privileged to be highlighted as a guest this month on Laly Mille's blog.  I would be honored if you would visit, read my story and comment.  Take a look at Laly's site - her art is AMAZING!
http://www.lalymille.com/2013/08/once-upon-a-time-from-beauty-to-tears-by-suzanne-joy-fernald.html

I met Laly through my first online creative class (via Kelly Rae Roberts).  That class opened up many opportunities to learn from a world-full of talented new, established and upcoming artists!  I purchased some of Laly's art earlier this year and proudly have it displayed in my dining area as inspiration.

May your heart soar and believe, that you too can begin a dream, you just need to move forward in those baby steps to begin.  

Peace & Joy,
Suzanne Fernald

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Steady As We Cross



 Photography & Writing Copyrighted By Suzanne J. Fernald
  Steady As We Cross

There sitting next to the stone
Blades of grass grow around

Gurgling flow
A stream

Rays of sun filter in clouds scattered
“Step Lightly,” she whispered.

Come and See

Steady as we cross
To the other side.

How the sun dances upon the water
Colors of whites and blues

“Take my hand, its steep at this point.”

“Here we are, step up.”

See the Splendor

It’s a New Life
 anticipating your arrival.

Monday, April 22, 2013

What Do You Hear?

Photograph & Poem Copyright By Suzanne J. Fernald


What Do You Hear

Do you hear the quiet
Are you alone?

Do you hear outside nature calls or busy traffic?
Are you yearning for another?

What do you hear
When you talk with another?
Is it your voice you hear
Can you stop and hear another speak?

Do you hear
And listen – really listen? (self control)
What do you hear?
Compassion, Grace, Worthiness

You are valuable and have a voice.
A voice to hear, a voice to care.

An ear to Hear, Learn, Seek, Transform
Can you hear?
It’s the call
Waiting for you to listen and act.