Summering on the Spiritual Journey

The art of summering is captured in the wonder of morning light, the darkness of a starry night, and the awe-inspiring beauty of nature. Poet Wallace Stevens stated, "The summer night is like a perfection of thought." I agree! 

My love for summer dates back to my early childhood when I summered with my Nonnie. Each week was full of small excursions such as walking to the library and church, running around the multiple flower beds and vegetable gardens, and pinning laundry on a rope as the breeze flipped and flopped our wash. Each activity was an uncomplicated, valuable memory of summertime. 

As an adult, the art of summering lifts my spirits. I wander through nature, finding ordinary items to dazzle me. Even a tiny dandelion, as simple as it is, brings joy. Now that June is here, with its kingdom of beautifully selected skies, beds of colorful flowers, and my magnolia trees, I can slow down with a more mindful approach. 

Yesterday, sunlight opened the day. I felt the pangs of loss more so than before, so I decided to go on my first walk in months. I breathed in June's fragrance of fresh-cut grass and hint of lilac and lavender. I listened to the sounds of birds and the swish-swash of the water pond. I paused for a short time, just to stare at the majesty of this summer-like environment. Knowing that June is "busting out all over, I need to renew my one word commitment to enjoy life.

"It was June, and the world smelled of roses. The sunshine was like powdered gold over the grassy hillside."  - Maud Hart Lovelace 

Three reading women in a summer landscape by Johan Krouthen, 1908

So what is summering to me? It is savoring stilled golden moments (as seen above in the artwork), time to enjoy the sounds of nature and the ebb and flow of the ocean, and inhale the scent of flowers. It is also a time to relax, barbecue, and enjoy life with family and friends. 

Ecclesiastes 11: 7-8 reminds me to delight in the light of day, while acknowledging the limitations of life. (AI) On my spiritual journey, there will be stumbling and confusion but hope shall help me find a new path as summer blossoms unfold.

I wake from sleep

stumble to see the light

alone with thoughts

I feel confused

what was once is no longer

yet life moves on

seasons change

the sounds and sights

of June usher in renewal

©CVarsalona, June 2025

Thank you to book lover and writer, Ramona Behnke, for leading our Spiritual Journey community this June with the theme of Summering.

Since time is precious, I am also offering my blog post for Poetry Friday. Thank you to nature poet, author, and photographer, Buffy Silverman, for hosting today's Poetry Friday Roundup. She is reviewing two books: Flurry, Float, and Fly! by Laura Purdie Salas and Wonder Why by Lisa Varchol Perron. You will also see there are many other poets who are sharing their poetic goodness.

Need For Poetry

"The public needs poetry; I need poetry, to help celebrate and console."

-Linda Pastan 

Looking Back in Time

Poetry tiptoed into my life

Years before you made your presence.

It offered quiet time, anchoring my

Creativity through words and photos.

Flash Forward

Several years later after a tragic skiing trip,

I hobbled into a party on one crutch.

Your eyes met mine before being introduced.

You were on a business trip.

I was returning back home for a new job.

Yet, you knew we were meant to be.

Our souls found togetherness.

Marriage

There were celebrations, loving children,

And challenging issues over forty-eight years.

Faith and love were always there.

Present

Today, my words sweep the sky heaven bound

While my blossoms open with natural wonder.

©CVarsalona, 2025

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Now I turn my attention to the Poetry Friday Roundup, hosted by a wonderful Grandma, retired teacher, writer, and book / tree lover, Ramona Behnke.

Time To Be with March SOLSC #SOL25

March opens with a flicker of light, a smack of cold weather, and  thoughts of renewal. It is a timely month where writers gather to reflect, renew friendships, and offer mindful moments of thought. 

So without further ado, I start the month-long challenge that Two Writing Teachers offer in March each year. My SOLSC #SOL25 will consist of daily dialogues in poetic formats with digital art. I will open my Sanctuary of Thought with hopes that you will join me on my journey. We all need time to dream, time to remember, time to reach for the infinite, and just time to be.

Thank you fellow slicer, Ramona Behnke, for sharing the above inspirational quote with me. It inspired me to use a digital tool, Fotojet, to pen my opening haiku.

Day 1 of the March SOLSC #SOL25

11 Years of Writing Slices of Life

Gathering Goodness

As I write my heartnote for today, I contemplate the theme for this month's Spiritual Journey theme, Gathering Goodness. Our host is Ramona Behnke, a reader, writer, slicer, and friend. 

Today's slice of life is a reflective one. How can I gather goodness? Will I be observant and see life through earth's small beauties? Will I feel a gentle wind passing through the air en route to spring? Will I be grateful no matter what life brings to me? 

After leaving our clubhouse for a meeting, I noticed an ordinary scene. I paused to soak in the goodness of nature. A tree spreading out its limbs and an erect lamppost stood against a springlike sky. They were guide posts persuading me to look deeper. I noticed billowy clouds peeking behind the tree, the brilliance of late winter sky, and realized that something as simple as this scene could bring goodness.  

Dear Spiritual Journey and Slice of Life Friends, 

I invite you to gather goodness as I did.

Photos of Regency at Creekside, Northern Virginia

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When I think of the word, goodness, I see the image of Mother Teresa. Imagine the humbleness of this saint who said: " I'm a little pencil in the hand of a writing God, who is sending a love letter to the world."  To me, this inspirational quote is full of goodness.

Ramona Behnke, host 

I hope you take a walk with me. Let's visit the websites of Spiritual Journey bloggers and Slice of Life slicers who bring their own brand of goodness to the penned page.

Two Writing Teachers, Day 7

10-year Slicer at Two Writing Teachers

Search, Observe, Praise Autumnal Moments

Yesterday, I wrote a post, Gathering Gladness, about how I cultivate and share gladness. The Spiritual Journey host for this month, Ramona Behnke, poses the topic and offers a series of nature photographs as examples of how she gathers gladness. I enjoy searching for beautiful quotes on nature. Ralph Waldo Emerson noted, "Nature always wears the colors of the spirit". There is a spirit within us and a Spirit above that brings gladness if we pause to explore and observe the beauty of the seasons. Yesterday, I pondered this and tried to write a Golden Shovel poem using Emerson's quote but I could not pen a poem that flowed. Ramona's photo became a prompt for the exploration of my feelings.

Gathering Gladness During Autumn

I observe Nature,

Earth's jewel that always

sparkles with delight. Today, she wears

sweeping garments from the

2023 fall collection of colors 

 that have a hint of

summer gladness.  I pause to let the

world slow down so I can enjoy life and let go with spirit.

CVarsalona, 2023, poem

Ramona Behnke, 2023, photo

As I watch seasonal transitions, I recall reading that that nature's cycles are mirrored in our lives. Autumn is life's time to pause and let go of worries or tasks so a glad heart can take in the beauty surrounding us. This weekend I shall be in the moment searching, observing, and praising Autumn's presence. 

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Today is Poetry Friday and poet and children's writer Matt Forrest Esenwine is celebrating the #BookBirthday of his newest book by taking a look back at its conception. Congratulations, Matt. I am full of gladness that I have the opportunity to writie a book review of The Thing to Remember about Stargazing published byTilbury House and illustrated by award-winning Italian artist, Sonia Maria Luce Possentini.

Stay Tuned for My Review of:

Gathering Gladness

Today, the Spiritual Journey community gives thought to a question posed by our host, Ramona Behnke. How do you gather and share gladness? October is the right month to discuss this topic because it offers a pivotal time during  Fall. Summer ends but summertime vibes continue during the "second summer" days of October. Autumn paints the earth in golden brown adorned with russet and crimson hues. At times, she sends a soft breeze, fresh, scattered leaves, and warm temperatures to gather gladness for all to share. 

Here, in Virginia, October brings a second summer and sweater weather for nature walks and apple and pumpkin picking. Grandchildren dance on haystacks, chase leaves, and soak in the radiance of sun-kissed sunrises and blazing sunsets. Within these activities, I cultivate gladness by sharing the joy of the outdoors with my family. When the day darkens during the evening time, I spend time writing, another joyful experience. There is usually a hush in the air that makes me smile as I softly hit the keyboard to compose. I open my heart and drink in the beauty of October.

nature streaks the sky 

in crayola-layered hues

watchful eyes gather

CVarsalona, 2023, Northern Virginia

During Autumn, I gladly search for calming sights that nurture the mind, body, and soul! I observe the changing landscape and the brilliant sky. I praise Nature for following the hand of the Spirit when creating this magnificent season. As Ralph Waldo Emerson stated decades ago, "Nature always wears the colors of the spirit". My one word, BE, beckons me to choose gladness this month as a focal point. I agree with Anne of Green Gables-"I'm so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers."

Do you enjoy the month of October as much as I do?

My one word BE beckons me to choose gladness this month as a focal point. I shall soak in the beauty of nature as she continues to change the landscape.

Thank you friends:, for being together in the spirit and thank you, Ramona, for hosting and chosing this title.

The Museum on the Moon

Most people I know love viewing the many faces of the moon in the night sky. Many stare and wonder about its marvels; others take moon photos or view the moon through a high-powered telescope. But did you know that the moon goes beyond being a phenomenon in the sky? It is also a museum of curious objects.

"The most curious museum on Earth isn't on the earth at all; it's on the moon"? 

Author and poet, Irene Latham, thoroughly researched why the moon is a curious museum prior to writing her fascinating new book with an interesting title, The Museum On The Moon-The Curious Objects on the Lunar Surface. Her book is so engaging that not only children but adults will be enthralled with Irene's addition of nonfiction information and a variety of poetic formats. In turn, Myrim Warers, the illustrator, created a series of magical scenes throughout the book that bring clarity to Irene's poems and non-fiction information. Their combination of artistic talents created a children's book that is out-of-this-world exciting.

When Irene introduced her new book, I immediately expressed interest in reviewing it. I thought it fortunate to not only see the book prior to public release but to enjoy virtually flying to the moon with Irene. I do admit that I was curious to view the artifact collection left on the moon. Perhaps, you, also have been inquisitive about the moon and lunar visits. My interest started when the American astronaut, Neil Armstrong, became the first person to step onto the moon (July 20, 1969) and declared, "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind".  

If we peek into the book we will find a beautiful blend of word choice, poetic formats, interesting historical facts, and artwork. This is the type of book that will provide worthwhile night reading for families and a resource for teachers and librarians. Also, this book would provide hours of inquiry at a science/literacy wonder station, alongside Wonderopolis' articles on the moon, such as Wonder #128 How Much Do You Weigh On the Moon?  Teachers could pair this Wonder of the Day with Irene's poem on Gravity.

The book begins with a Table of Contents that draws children's attention. Some children may be inclined to skip to a particular title that delights them or follow the traditional way of reading a book. I indulged in a few moments reviewing the titles that are great introductions to the book itself. "The Junk Side of the Moon" caught my eye and I wanted to know more but I started with the first poem and nonfiction piece, Welcome Earthlings. Below is a portion of Irene's first poem using the triolet format.

Think you know the Moon 

because you see it every night?... 

So many artifacts hide in plain sight! 

Don’t think you know the Moon 

just because you see it every night. 

My curiosity was piqued immediately, so I eagerly awaited the collection of poems that unveiled artifacts that were left on the moon. At first, I wondered why the astronauts would leave personal possessions, their tools, equipment, and even golf balls but then, I started thinking about the Oregon Trail pioneers who left many of their beloved possessions along the side of the road. I did find out the reason though. Because astronauts were bringing back to Earth items from the moon for scientific research, they needed to divest themselves of heavy objects. I also found out from Irene's research that the aim of the NASA Apollo Program "was not to create a museum. The program aimed to establish space technology, carry out scientific exploration of the Moon, and to develop ways for humans to work in the lunar environment." Irene added links to various aspects of the program at the end of the book providing a pathway for children to complete a small research project in collaborative groups. 

Forever Footprints was the second poem that also used great word choice: "Human tracks tattoo Moon's rutted face-". Children will enjoy the imagery in this poem and most likely will need a dictionary to gain access to the meaning of some words, which is a wonderful way to introduce a worthwhile reading skill. The poem, "Invisible" made me stop and ponder the wonder of stardust and moon dust that merge hope, prayers, wishes, and dreams-come-true. The nonfiction piece on the left of the poem provided an inspirational goal-in-motion thought.

I extend thanks to Irene's publisher, Bushel & Peck, under their poetry imprint, Moonshower. Moonshower "publishes artful, exciting volumes of poetry for kids of all ages by some of the world's leading poets. Irene Latham is a notable figure in the children's poetry field. As you can see from the sneak preview, she is a thoughtful writer with a fine sense of how to create books that will empower children to become wonderers, readers, and writers. She writes to expand children's imaginations and also to promote creativity and children's potential to expand their horizons. 

Because digging into the whys of writing a book is important, I asked Irene to respond to two burning questions I posed.

1. Why were you drawn to researchng information on "The curious objects on the lunar surface"?

I was definitely one of those "space kids" who followed the Apollo missions and watched space movies (Space Camp, anyone?) and visited space museums. (Huntsville Space and Rocket Center is less than two hours away!) And our eldest son also had a big obsession with space, so it felt like I've had this books inside me for a long time! 

2. How did you decide which poetic format you should use when composing each poem?

I knew I wanted to use a variety of forms (thank you DICTIONARY FOR A BETTER WORLD), but I didn't set out to write any one poem in any particular form. I just kind of played around, and eventually (sometimes, immediately, as in the poem "Peace", which is an adaptation of an acrostic) a form would make itself known. I think I spend most of my time as a poet setting poems free from the constraints/expectations I come into the poem with...it's hard sometimes (and takes time!) to just let a poem be what it wants to be! But it's kind of essential, because in my experience, that's how one catches the best poems.

With delight, I opened my email today to Irene's responses. As parents, teachers, and librarians, it is important to understand the endless possibilities that books provide. Irene is one of those deep-thinkers who desires to open children's eyes to the magic of books. 

Below are some artifacts that Irene sent me to brighten my days I prepared to write this book review.

Artful Photography

Inspirational Poetry

Remembrance of the Apollo Missions Into Space

When Irene hosted Poetry Friday on June 30, 2023, she asked the community of writers to join her "Moon in June" themed Roundup. She created a Welcome to the Museum on the Moon! padlet here so others could enjoy the poetic goodness that came in different styles. I offered a Moon in June blog post with four moon-related poems and photos. You can see my offering here.

Note: Due to printing delays, the published date for the Museum on the Moon by Irene Latham is now set for September 19, 2023. This book will become the 19th children's book that Irene has written and a wonderful gift for any child, educator, or librarian. 

I've always been smitten by the moon and now I add Irene Latham's artistic and creative book, The Museum On The Moon-The Curious Objects on the Lunar Surface, to my wonder list of items that awe me. 

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Today, I offer the Poetry Friday community a peek into Irene Latham's newest book with the hopes that everyone spreads the news across social media, into classrooms, and libraries. Children benefit from books that spark their imagination and who knows perhaps there are little stargazers, astronauts, and scientists in the making who will grow up to honor the moon and all the Apollo missions. 

Thank you, Ramona Behnke, for hosting Poetry Friday today. I know that you are busy with your move across the country. May your new view bring many walks of peace to your late summer days.

Celebrating The Small Things

Celebrations are often thought of as grand occasions but this month Spiritual Journey Thursday is writing about the celebration of small things. What if I start looking at small everyday accomplishments as building blocks to something larger? As Mother Teresa says, "Be faithful in small things because in them that your strength lies."  

While healing from cataract surgery, I try to accomplish one small thing. This past week, I gardened to beautify the beds. We purchased a cascading water fountain that added an ornamental touch and a pleasant zen-like trickling sound. 

Nature calls me to slow down and go with the flow like my gardens do daily. I need to listen and just take small steps to accomplish larger goals; meditate to find peace. As Rachel Carson says, 'Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts."

I imagine my Virginia garden to be a place for rest and meditation like the one in my Long Island home. If there is a sign to be made for my garden, it should read "Nature is the art of God." (Dante Alighieri)

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• Tomorrow, I shall share the beauty of God's blossoms with my toddler granddaughters.
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  I celebrate my time with my sweet little grandgirls.

I celebrate grandma & grandpa sitting tomorrow.

I even celebrate the challenges of feeling overwhelmed

that will be erased by the girls' smiles.

There is much to do each day

but 

there must be time to celebrate the little things. 

Don't you agree?

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Thank you to Ramona Behnke, Washington poet friend, the host of Spiritual Journey Thursday for our topic. She shares a splendid photo gallery of her recent celebrations at her blog, Pleasures from the Page.

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I celebrate poetry with the host of Poetry Friday, children author Buffy Silverman. I thank her for  for her beautiful nature photography and poetry at her website link, that you can visit here.

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Poetry is the rhythmical creation of beauty in words.

-Edgar Allan Poe

I am in the midst of slowly designing my Poetryliscious Global Gallery of Artistic Expressions but you can see the recent additions from Alaska, Kashmir, Estonia, and poets from across the United States at the Poetryliscious Gallery Padlet here.

#SOL22 March Musings Day 21: Welcome Springtime!

It's Here!

Spring is here,

Such a needed season this year!

Prancing in with sunshine and warmth,

thoughts of renewal putting forth.

I see trees start to pop,

As nature opens her floral shop.

Pinks and purples peek and shout

While winter shades fade out.

©CV, 2022

A quick look at what past Springs brought to brighten Earth:

In 2018, slicer Ramona Behnke captured Spring in Washington.

The above photos were in past global galleries of artistic expressions that I design for online viewing. I am stepping back into time this year and creating My Winter's Embrace Gallery. Stop back to see that unveiled.

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Thank you, Two Writing Teachers for this daily meeting place to connect with a community of reflective writers.