catnipoflife

Observe life at its best, Listen to life’s songs, Embrace life’s bounties, Breathe the breath of life, Savor life to its fullest!

Inspiration: Butterfly Magic

the mystical, magical butterfly

holder of dreams, keeper of secrets

lives each day for the moments

leaving simply no time for regrets

The butterfly counts not months but moments, and has time enough. ~Rabindranath Tagore

Morpho Butterfly: Mexico, South America and Central America

the Morpho Butterfly

a brilliant sight unforeseen

shimmers in day’s light

metallic shades of blue and green

The Owl Butterfly: Rainforest of Central and South America

the Owl Butterfly

donning eyespots big and bold

thrives in the rainforest

ne’er fearing Winter’s cold

Monarch_In_May

Monarch Butterfly: State insect of Alabama

the Monarch Butterfly

well known to mankind

Alabama’s state beauty

not at all a rare find

Kamehameha Butterfly: State insect of Hawaii

Kamehameha Butterfly: State insect of Hawaii

the Kamehameha Butterfly

with its rare richness of red

floats gracefully in the air

resting in a tropical bed

Walk in the meadow, kneel down in quiet repose; let the daisies hug your knees and the butterfly kiss your hand. ~catnipoflife

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To my husband – Happy Anniversary!

Celebrating 28 years together!

 

At Heaven’s Door

 

The doors of Heaven opened

The day you came into my life

At our eyes’ first meeting

Divine intervention touched my soul

 

What once were dreams and aspirations

Transpired into fearless reality

Conscious reasoning gave way to inner feelings

Our encounter ensured destiny unfold

 

Love initiated in Heaven

Unconditional, without envy or self-pity

Free from illusion, secure in faith

Lays eternal in the mist

 

Two hands merged as one

One heart, one body, one spirit

Truly blessed to share life’s daily happenings

Until only memories exist

 

Our love spans the sands of time

Through the years, happiness and tears,

’Til one day we’re hand-in-hand

Standing quietly at Heaven’s door

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Tag – You’re It!

Last week I was ‘Tagged’ by Claire Cappetta!  Claire is sharing her journey, fears, tears and joys, through her first novel, A Broken Ring. It is a story of a woman’s journey from abuse to empowerment. Claire also shares thoughts and messages why she loves New York with her husband, Vincent, who inspires readers with poetry of his own. OK, Vinny, why haven’t you been writing lately?

There are rules to this TAG which require my answering questions about myself. This should prove to be interesting. I have not read the questions in advance so here goes. . .but first the rules. . .

Rules

1. You must post the rules.
2. Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post.
3. Create eleven new questions to ask the people you’ve tagged.
4. Tag (eleven) people with a link to your post.
5. Let them know they’ve been tagged.

Questions to me:

1. Where is the most exotic place you have traveled?

The Matterhorn in the Pennine Alps on the border between Switzerland and Italy

Interpreting exotic to be foreign and striking, it would have to be the Swiss Alps. Kind of sad for this American’s first visit to the mountains to be in Switzerland!

2. If you could be any animal what would you be and why?

I love margaritas!

No doubt about it, the CAT. I am moody, want to be petted only when I am in the mood, finicky about my food, sometimes giddy, sometimes aloof, love a fur coat but most of all, my nickname is Kitten. Go figure! Sh-h-h-h! Don’t tell anyone. Yeah, right!

3. If you wanted to be famous what would it be for?

 

Not really into be classified as famous but would like to be remembered for helping people, being there when needed.

4. You are stranded on an island… what 3 things do you have with you?

 

EASY – My heart to keep me strong, My mind for prayerful thoughts, My soul already promised: Anything else necessary for survival is already there. FOR REAL!

5. What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done?

My dad’s ’54 Ford, except his was dark green.

Being one of many GRITS (Girls Raised In The South) leaves that door wide open. It would have to be ‘backing the miles off my daddy’s ’54 Ford’ to get enough miles for a ‘joy ride’ with my friends to a nearby town. I was only allowed 5 miles and the ride took 20 miles one way. [I discovered the odometer rolled backwards when the car was in reverse.]

6. Tattoo or piercing? What and why?

 

No, tattoos, OOPS! unless your count permanent eyeliner! If I ever got a tattoo, it would be a butterfly. Only piercing is the ears. That hurt enough!

7. What’s the best movie you’ve ever watched?

 

Somewhere in Time. I could handle time travel:>)

8. You could live in a lighthouse on a cliff top or a cabin in the deep dark woods, which would you choose?

 

Definitely the cabin. Don’t mind stairs but the lighthouse might be a bit much on a daily basis although the view would probably be magnificent. However, the woods holds adventures of its own and there are always candles and perhaps a flashlight. (Batteries?) Just may have to carry a big stick sometimes.

9. What is your best feature?

Yep, mine are blue.

Definitely my eyes. Have been told many times I have eyes of an angel. Too mushy, huh?

10. What is your favorite color?

No question here, always been blue. Second to that would be red. Um-m-m-m? Cool to fiesty

11. What is the most inspiring thing you think you have ever done?

Suppose that would have to be through my writing. I only say this because of comments received from readers of my books, especially Echoes.

Questions to you:

1. What is the worst food you ever tasted, when and where?

2. What does your spouse/significant other do sometimes that is totally annoying?

3. If you could go anywhere in the world, all expenses paid, where would you go and why?

4. What is your favorite sport, participating or watching? Why do you like it so much?

5. Describe you most hair-raising experience?

6. What was the most embarrassing moment of your life?

7. Complete this thought: A friend is one who . . .

8. Who was your favorite teacher and why?

9. Who inspires you the most? Why?

10. What is your favorite music, era and artist(s)?

AND, the final question is. . .

11. What 11 words would best describe your personality? 

You’ve been tagged by catnipoflife!

AND THE NOMINEES ARE. . .

Free Tag Zone

The Thoughtful Life

A Hairdresser’s Diary

Extraordinary Dreams of an Ireland Traveler

Jen’s Thoughts

Soulmetry

Poems French & English by Gys

Women Making Strides

WHAT MARVELS ARE THESE

One Week to Crazy

Darlene Craviotto

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One Lovely Blog Award & Tag! You’re it!

Heartfelt thanks are extended in appreciation!

A double THANK YOU is extended today from catnipoflife.

Brenda Fraser

Claire Capetta

On July 5, not one but two nominations for awards were received here at catnip.

How wonderful to be recognized by fellow writers in a way that truly touches the heart! As each of us ‘puts pen to paper,’ it is always in hopes that someone somewhere will feel the warmth, love, pain and passion set forth in writing. Life is a journey and we all have our own unique stories to share whether in fiction, non-fiction or poetry. Since each of these awards have their similarities and differences a tidbit from each one will be shared periodically adding to this post. Afterward, catnip will graciously release her nominations. . .

1} Thank the blogger that nominated you.

Thank you to  Brenda Fraser for nominating me for the One Lovely Blogger Award.Her new book Creative Power is finally finished and available as an e-book on amazon.com . The print version will be available in a few weeks.

2} Give 7 random facts about yourself

1~ I start my day and end the night reading my Bible!

2~My favorite actor is Gene Hackman. His sly grin reminds me of my husband. LOL:>)

3~  I LOVE digging in the dirt and don’t mind getting dirt under my fingernails. Gloves help when I remember them!

4~ Cats are my joy, but you probably already know that!

5~ The best TV shows: America – The Story of Us and Chiller. Quirky combination, I know!

6~ I always get my words twisted/backwards, like. “Had enough to eat, Catfood?” [Cat’s name at that time was Taz. Always hungry. LOL:>)]

7~ Waited until my 50’s to experience my first broken bone. Tripped, fell flat with an armload of books right in the midst of a group of teenagers changing classes. YEP, I was the teacher. Now I am literally screwed after surgery on my left elbow! OUCH!

3} Nominate 15 blogs

Please leave a comment so I will know you received notification! Blessings to all!

Jeanette S Andersen

Kick Back Moments – Peggy Strack

Solid Happpiness – Kate O’Mara

A Writer’s Journey – Micki Peluso

Thoughts and Prayers – Deirdre Tolhurst

I.O.U. Sex – Sandra Nachlinger

Terry’s Thoughts and Threads

Geezer Guys and Gals – Linda Rondeau

Some Assembly Required – John Sealander

The Fat and the Skinny – Carole Di Tosti

A Taste of Bliss – Wendell A. Brown

Surviving Life – Sunni

Aspire. Motivate. Succeed. Daily

Greatpoetrymhf’s Weblog – MaryHelen Ferris

Last, but by NO means least. . .

The Thoughtful Life – Debbie Hope

* * * * *

I may not always leave a comment but I try to Like when the link is available letting you know I stopped by for a visit. Having been honored myself with this award provides me the opportunity to let you know I have been reading YOUR words. Have a blessed day!

* * * * *

TAG – YOU’RE IT WILL BE A NEW POST!

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Inspiration: Drop a Stitch

OOPS! I dropped a stitch!

Knit one, pearl two, knit one, pearl two. . . brings to mind the ol’ nursery rhyme “He loves me, he loves me not, he loves me, he loves me not” because of its repetition. The Decision of the Flower results in either “yea” or “nay” with perhaps dropping an un-named petal along the way to alter its destined outcome. The knitter faces a similar fate, “keep it” or “leave it”, dependent upon whether too many stitches have been dropped in the process.

Every “petal plucker” and “kicker knitter” drops stitches. C’st la vie! The stitches of each rely on the rhythm of the moment. If you stop paying attention, even for a second, suddenly you’ve lost track of whether it is true love or not, OR a loop has slipped off the needle going unnoticed. Too much delay and you might end up completely fumbling the nursey rhyme or in the case of the knitter, continuing to knit several rows before you see the tell-tale ladders of yarn filling the gap where the stitch initially dropped.

Are you in sync? What is your Rhythm of the Day?

 

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AMERICA!

A Tribute to America with Patriotic Music

July 4, 1776

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AMERICA!

America FOUGHT, America WON!

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Inspiration: Whiskers & Whispers

Catnap12Whiskers and purrs go together like whispers and sighs. They are both soft and soothing in times most unexpected, as well as, when they are much needed. It is that part of catnip which tends to put us into a calm relaxing mode:  Where the worries of the day become lost in the daydreams of tomorrow and where the somber shadows of twilight reveal a twinkling night sky.

Listen to the cat’s purr; then, listen to the whispers that wind their way through the caverns of your mind. Let the sounds be like messages in the wind, unveiling nostalgic thoughts like a windswept sigh.

“Silent whisperings unite the heart with the soul relishing in moments ne’er to grow cold.” ~catnipoflife

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At the Heart of Awakenings

Do you have the right ingredients for a Patriotic fourth?  catnipoflife’s sister site Awakenings presents Prepping for the Fourth of July. Videos, music and more. . .

 

Remember Me! (Lizzie Palmer Supports Our Troops with a heart-rendering video already seen by over 31 million viewers! )

Pledge of Allegiance (Red Skelton, 1969, presents a VERY interesting ending!)

Star-Spangled Banner (7 yr old Rhema Marvanne marvels young and old with her dynamic voice!)

God Bless America ( The original FIRST broadcast radio performance of God Bless America by Irving Berlin as introduced by Kate Smith on November 10, 1938.)

Awakenings from Then ’til Now

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Reader Appreciation Award

Thank you, Debbie @ The Thoughtful Life

What an awesome way to begin a new month, especially one as prestigious as the month of July! Celebrations will be in high gear throughout our nation and abroad in only a few days. But, prior to the Fourth of July holiday, catnipoflife is proud to announce a celebration of her own.

When catnip first entered the blogosphere, she never envisioned meeting a realm of such wonderful people: people she can now call friends, even though they are within an invisible world. We have shared happiness and sorrow with inspiration beyond compare!

*****

The “rules” for this award state that catnip cannot award someone who has already been awarded. And she cannot give the award back to the person who bestowed it upon her. With those thoughts in mind, I would like to thank all of the people who comment on my blog, but especially Debbie Hope @ The Thoughtful Life who honored catnip with this award. Debbie is an avid catnip visitor and her comments are always welcomed and enjoyed.

To my recipients, here are the rules for this award:

  1. Award your top 6 bloggers who have commented the most.
  2. Be thankful.
  3. You cannot award someone who has already been awarded. And you cannot give the award back to me.
  4. Don’t forget to tell the bloggers you’ve awarded.
  5. If you don’t want to pass on this award, that’s okay to. Just admire it.

Catnipoflife bestows the Reader Appreciation Award to. . .

Claire Cappetta

Claire can be serious when needs be but in doing so, finds just the right way to tickle your funny bone. She is from New York and quick to tell you she LOVEs it. Claire offers a journey through writing and publishing an indie book, and all that pleases and irks along the way! Thank you, Claire for your visits and comments as Catnip’s southern roots stretch across the miles to her northern neighbor.

Micki Peluso

Micki shares A Writer’s Journey and is the author of …And the Whippoorwill Sang. In her book, the family embarks upon its unbearable journey to the other side of grief and grasps the poignant gift of life as they begin … To Weep To Laugh To Grieve To Dance . . . And the Whippoorwill Sang. Thank you, Micki, for your continued support and comments at catnipoflife. Your book is GREAT and I can’t wait to finish so I can write a review:>)

Christine Hannon

All you need to know about Chris’s blog is the title, A Hairdresser’s Diary, and you will be instantly hooked! Even though she has been through personal trauma, it has not weakened her spirit or desire to share with her fellow bloggers. Join Chis and enjoy her art, stories (Flabbermouth Series), poems and testimonials. Thank you, Chris, for all your encouragement even though you were facing your own battles.

Aditya Samitinjay

Aditya is from Hyderabad, India and is studying to be a doctor. His blog, Like Lite Life, offers a wide variety of articles revolving around Mental Health and Lifestyle Tips. In an age where stress is an everyday common occurrence, Aditya makes you stop and think about if coping with stress is really possible in 2012 while also focusing on the most effective way to de-stress (plus many, many more articles of varying interests). Thank you, Aditya, for your visits, comments, tweets, and opportunity for catnip to write for you!

Chief Writing Wolf

The Chief, Alejandro De La Garza, offers cartoons, quips and quotes, famous birthdays, historical events, news, opinions and personal writings with great pride and interest. He, too, is an avid reader and commenter on catnipoflife. Thank you, Chief, for your many, many visits and hope you will continue to come back often.

Well, that’s all folks! I love hearing from all of you, which makes the blogging experience better and better!

Blessings to all and have a wonderful day!

Sharla @catnipoflife

 

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