©Bonnie Druschel

Last Spring, I was sitting on a bench under this flowering tree and the sweet aroma was heavenly.

I didn’t sit under the tree very long may be a couple of minutes but it totally changed my state of mind to one of relaxation and connecting with nature and abundance.  It’s fun like that.

- Bonnie

Meadows, Northampton, Mass. ©Bonnie Druschel

I was driving through the meadows in Northampton, Massachusetts last summer and took this photo of the dirt road, corn fields, blue sky and clouds.

Magical lights. ©Bonnie Druschel

The other day I was on this dirt road and quickly took a photo and this is how it came out.

-Bonnie

A double rainbow!! ©Cynthia Neill

My sister, Cynthia, was in Hawaii last year and took this photo. It’s a double rainbow!!!  So beautiful.

- Bonnie

A field. ©Bonnie Druschel

Last summer I was driving through the country and this field caught my eye.  The golden amber along with the variety of shades of green and purple lit me up.  Just so beautiful!

-Bonnie

Robert Frost Trail. ©Bonnie Druschel

It snowed last night and this morning I went for an early morning walk on the Robert Frost Trail in Amherst, MA.  The air was crisp and cold and all the tree branches were covered in white.  The sun started to shine through and the wind created falling snow.  It was so beautiful.

-Bonnie

LG is relaxing. ©Bonnie Druschel

LG, our new kitten, is helping me work. He’s next to my “Play Often” mug which I’m using to hold my pens and scissors. He has the BEST energy!!

-Bonnie

Capen Gardens at Smith College. ©Bonnie Druschel

What inspires you?  This garden at Smith College in Northampton, Mass. inspires me.  My friends and I call it the “Secret Garden” because no one seems to know about it!!  In the summer, it is so fragrant from all the roses over head.  And, the colors from all the different flowers make me feel so good.  So, what inspires you?

Butterfly on a flower. ©Bonnie Druschel

Last summer, I was following this butterfly all around the garden and it finally landed long enough for me to snap this photo. That was really fun!!

-Bonnie

LG sitting on the window sill. ©Bonnie Druschel.

Our new kitty, LG (short for “Little Guy”) is so much fun and has such great energy.  What a bundle of joy!!

-Bonnie

The most amazing sunset...ever. ©Bonnie Druschel

It was so good to get outside after working inside all day.  I drove off towards my destination and noticed the sky looking … pretty amazing but was heading away from the sunset.  As I continued driving, I looked to my left and saw THIS most amazing sunset I have ever seen in my life.  Luckily no one was behind me because I stopped immediately to pull over and take a photo with my cell phone.  It was so breathtaking and intense color.   It’s good to get out.

-Bonnie

A sunflower field. ©Bonnie Druschel

Last summer, I’m in a sunflower field and it’s really a cool experience. There was no one else around except for the all the winged ones.

Tom and the Sequoia trees. ©Bonnie Druschel

Tom is the blue dot standing amongst the Sequoia trees at Yosemite. The trees gave off so much energy, I could hardly keep my feet on the ground.

The Giant Sequoia trees are the largest living things on earth, because they are among the tallest and are the biggest in width. The Coastal Redwoods of California are taller than the Giant Sequoias. However, the sequoia trees have much larger trunks and branches in width.

http://library.thinkquest.org/J002415/Facts/facts.html

Snowing outside. ©Bonnie Druschel

Wishing you a Happy New Year filled with the best of health, happiness, wealth, love, fun and success!!

-Bonnie

Wildflowers. ©Bonnie Druschel

May your life be like a wildflower, growing freely in the beauty and joy of each day.

- Native American Proverb

Rose and Rose Hips. ©Bonnie Druschel

Creativity takes courage.

- Henri Matisse

©Bonnie Druschel

Happy Holidays!!

Last winter, I took this photo at dusk and it was a beautiful moment.

-Bonnie

Statue of Mother Mary. ©Bonnie Druschel

I like to think of myself as an artist, and my life is my greatest work of art.  Every moment is a moment of creation, and each moment of creation contains infinite possibilities.  I can do things the way I’ve always done them, or I can look at all the different alternatives, and try something new and different and potentially more rewarding.  Every moment presents a new opportunity and a new decision.

What a wonderful game we are all playing, and what a magnificent art form.

-Shakti Gawain

I visited New York  City last year and stumbled upon the coolest store that sold “everything” including rocks, stones, lighting, furniture, sheets, towels, and religious statues to name a few.  The statue of Mother Mary looked so beautiful and peaceful that I had to take a photo of her. 

-Bonnie

**HAPPY WINTER SOLSTICE **

Milkweed pod seeds. ©Bonnie Druschel

On one of my walks, I was led into this field of milkweed pods.  It was so beautiful!!

Pink and blue sky and water. ©Bonnie Druschel

This is a place I love to walk whether it’s in the morning or at sunset. There are three different body’s of water with walking paths that go in, out, and around the water. The sun was setting and everything was pink and blue and absolutely beautiful.

Frosted trees. ©Bonnie Druschel

It was so beautiful driving down this dirt road to discover all the trees had been covered with frost, all the branches looked so soft.  I’m glad I took the “slower” way to where I needed to be — what a gift.

-Bonnie

Raindrops falling into a puddle at night. ©Bonnie Druschel

I took this photo of it raining outside at night.  The porch light was on and that was the only light source.  I was surprised to see how cool this looked after I downloaded it to my computer…pretty magical…and … fun!!

-Bonnie

Underneath a very tall sunflower. ©Bonnie Druschel

I took this photo while standing under a towering sunflower…it was the coolest feeling to be under this giant….it was so powerful!  This one was about 10 feet tall…it was so much fun…I love sunflowers!!!

Have a great day!!

- Bonnie

Pretty sunflowers to brighten your day. ©Bonnie Druschel

I have to admit, I am addicted to sunflowers….they just make me so happy…I LOVE THEM!!! And, I have such a good time being with them and taking photographs as well.  Happy Monday and wishing you a sunny day!!!

Leaves and grass frosted over. ©Bonnie Druschel

I took a photo of the leaves and grass with a fresh coat of frost.  They look so beautiful and I love how the leaves are outlined as well as every blade of grass.  Just amazing!!

-Bonnie

Bee and sunflower. ©Bonnie Druschel

This past summer I visited fields filled with thousands of sunflowers, the most I have ever seen in  my entire life,   I was so into it.  There were a ton of bees, butterflies, dragonflies, and birds flying around me and above me.  I felt so part of nature and it was the coolest experience.  What amazed me the most is that not one bee bothered me at all and I didn’t have any fear about them because I was just so engrossed with the sunflowers.  I’m so glad I took the time to go see them because it was the best gift I could have given myself this year.  What do ”they” say???….the best things in life are free?!!  I agree.

- Bonnie

©Bonnie Druschel

I am so grateful for the thousands of sunflowers I got to visit this year….here’s one of them.

-Bonnie

A close up of a red sunflower. ©Bonnie Druschel

For each new morning with its light,
For rest and shelter of the night,
For health and food,
For love and friends,
For everything Thy goodness sends.

–Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882)

Flying above the clouds on my way back from California. ©Bonnie Druschel

It was so beautiful looking at all the clouds on my way back from California.  They appeared so fluffy and soft and reminded me of the peanut butter and fluff sandwiches I had as a kid with my friends Cheryl and Debbie.  It’s fun like that….

Beautiful clouds. ©Bonnie Druschel

On my walk the other day, the sky was full of clouds and I spent most of my time looking up, it was pure enjoyment.

- Bonnie

A basket of flowers and leaves. ©Bonnie Druschel

The other day,  I went for a walk in the park and bumped into a friend who was with her children.  Her young daughter gathered marigold flower heads and oak leaves in her basket to take home  to add to her nature collection.  She was so proud to tell me about it and it was really important to her.  Of course, I asked permission to take the photo and she smiled big and said “yes!”  Sometimes, it’s the simplest things that make us the happiest.  And, what seems silly to someone else may be very important to you.  So, do what feels good to you and don’t care about what someone else thinks about it.  I love collecting rocks, flowers, leaves, shells and beads because they make me feel happy and I love looking at the colors and textures….do you! 

Have a great weekend!!

- Bonnie

Leaf trail in the water. ©Bonnie Druschel

If you cannot do great things, do small things in a great way.

Have a wonderful day…enjoy the sunshine!!    Bonnie

©Bonnie Druschel

Too often we focus on what needs to be changed about ourselves.  We are waiting for perfection before we’ll love ourselves completely.  You can change this self-critical programming by looking at what you like about yourself and giving yourself positive feedback.  Appreciate the beauty in your body and focus on the qualities you admire in yourself.  Your body will respond to this appreciation and grow increasingly beautiful.

Mt. Holyoke College, South Hadley, Mass. ©Bonnie Druschel

The Universe blesses me with this rainbow of abundance.

-  Peggy McColl, my mentor and friend.  Here is her web-site: http://www.destinies.com

Oak leaves and building reflected in the water. ©Bonnie Druschel

On Sunday, I could have stayed in my pajamas all day long but I got it together and went for a walk around the pond at Mount Holyoke College in South Hadley, Mass.  It was the perfect Autumn day…sunny, cool and crisp.  All the leaves were so vibrant and I took some photos of what I saw as I strolled around the water.  It was the best!!! 

Have a great day!!

-Bonnie

Photo of a gemstone I took at G.I.A. in California. ©Bonnie Druschel

You see I strive to be the very best…. shine my light for all to see……

cause ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE

when you BELIEVE!!!!!

Barn and fall foilage. ©bonniedruschel

What amazing colors there are in nature.  I love the vibrant colors of the foliage here…it is so amazing to see the leaves transform into different colors in this season.  WoW!!!! 

Happy Autumn!!!

Cleo is rolling around in the catnip. ©Bonnie Druschel

“Here’s to the crazy ones. The misfits. The rebels. The troublemakers. The round pegs in the square holes. The ones who see things differently. They’re not fond of rules. And they have no respect for the status quo. You can praise them, disagree with them, quote them, disbelieve them, glorify or vilify them. About the only thing you can’t do is ignore them. Beca…use they change t……hings. They invent. They imagine. They heal. They explore. They create. They inspire. They push the human race forward. Maybe they have to be crazy. How else can you stare at an empty canvas and see a work of art? Or sit in silence and hear a song that’s never been written? Or gaze at a red planet and see a laboratory on wheels? We make tools for these kinds of people. While some see them as the crazy ones, we see genius. Because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do.”

- Steve Jobs, Apple Computers.

A tall, beautiful, bright and powerful sunflower!! ©Bonnie Druschel

Is someone trying to mold you into something you are not?

Be who you are!!

-Bonnie

Crystals illuminated in sunlight. ©Bonnie Druschel

A single fantasy can transform a million realities.

-Maya Angelou

An abundance of sunflowers….go visit them… ©Bonnie Druschel

A couple of weeks ago, my friend Heidi and I discovered a zillion sunflowers at the dog path in Northampton near the Northampton Gardens.  It was such a pleasant surprise because there have only ever been weeds or pumpkins growing in the fields.  What’s funny to me is that I thought I would have to go to Kansas to see such an abundance of sunflowers and here they are …… right  in my own backyard.  I love sunflowers!!!!!  Enjoy your day.

Four ducks drifting on the water. ©Bonnie Druschel.

I want to share with you my experience on my walk around the reservoir yesterday at sunset.  The cloudless sky was glowing like a fresh cut cantaloupe, the trees in the background were in shadow, there was a light warm breeze, four ducks drifting on the water, the sound of ”peepers” in the background, dragonflies buzzing around, the scent of wild grapes permeating the air and purple wildflowers lining the walk path.   Ahhhhhhhh……..Nature.

-Bonnie

Sunset in San Diego, CA in May 2011. ©Bonnie Druschel.

Ever notice that when you’re at the beach, you are so entertained by the water, waves, sand, sun, birds, shells, and wind that it feels like nothing else exists?   It’s really cool that you can feel that way and that vibe can stay with you for a while. 

When I was 10 years old, our family went to the beach and I was swimming in the ocean.  All the sudden, this boy pulled me out of the water–he SAVED ME from getting bit by a very large jelly fish.  He became my boyfriend for the next 4 days.  From then on, I’ve been afraid to go into the water where there are jellyfish.  A couple of years ago I went to the  beach with my sister, Cynthia,  we were swimming and having fun and I was making my way out of the water and she said to me, “Oh, Bonnie…look at all the jelly fish swimming with us.”  I instantly became scared and got out of there so fast.  But what is amazing to me is that they were there the whole time and didn’t even bother me at all.

So next week, I’m going to the beach and when I go into the water as this quote by Cabrillo Marine Aquarium states, I’m going to “Dance like a jellyfish.  Dance like a jelly fish.”

-Bonnie

Sunrise in Canada this past June. ©Bonnie Druschel

This past June in Canada, I woke up early,  looked out the hotel window and saw this very magical sunrise.  The land and sky were blue,  engulfed in fog and the was sun rising in the distance–it was so beautiful.

I’m not sure where the phrase, “I’m feeling blue” came from but I relate blue to water and sky.  Blue is my favorite color, it just makes me feel great!  Blue is a confident color and is also the hue of the 5th chakra-the throat.  Over 15 years ago I was working on speaking up for myself and I would wear this blue glass necklace around my neck.  It was a good reminder for me to communicate my feelings.  

So, I’m wishing you a blue day…one filled with a beautiful blue sky and majestic blue waters. 

-Bonnie

I love this quote by Henry David Thoreau, “My profession is to always find God in nature.”

A turtle hanging out on a stick in the water. ©Bonnie Druschel

On my walk today, I saw 8 turtles basking in the sun on the fallen tree branches in the water.  I counted them as I walked around the reservoir.   Usually, I’m lucky if I see one but for some reason they were out this day.  I wish I could have joined them it looked really, really relaxing.

-Bonnie

Tick-tock … tick-tock … ©Bonnie Druschel

My husband, Tom, and I like to go for walks at night when we can.  Right around the corner from where we live, there’s a  beautiful garden.  I’m smelling the flowers and I see Tom picking up the  fallen rose petals off the ground and placing them on the sundial and I joined him.  In the moment, it was really fun and relaxing.  I had my camera on me so I took this photo and I’m glad I  didn’t waste any time because within a few minutes, the wind came by and blew them all onto the ground again.  For me, I get so inspired by the simple things in life. 

I believe in you…do you believe in you?…meow! ©Bonnie Druschel

Good morning.  I need to be serious for a moment and tell you to, be kind to yourself… like I am.  I’m totally in the moment all the time…I don’t think about what a mess I make in my feeding area or the amount of kitty litter I dig out of my box onto the floor.  Nope!  I just keep going with the flow….it’s fun.  I eat…wash up…go outside…hope a treat is waiting for me when I return…eat my snack…wash up…take a nap.  I never criticize myself for anything.  I know who I am!  I’m a QUEEN …. not a princess….a QUEEN … so because I know who I am… I get treated that way.  That’s that…. So, to sum up my message… be kind to yourself…be happy with who you are….have fun…be thankful for all that you do have…relax.  Meow! 

You can barely see them, but there are sheep in the grass.

A couple of weeks ago,  I took a ride by myself out to the country and parked my car on a dirt road and then went for a walk.  As I passed this field (in the photo) I admired the beautiful tall grass swaying in the breeze.   A few moments later…I noticed the sheep grazing in the grass…. I didn’t see them immediately.  It was so beautiful to see them doing their thing….I loved it!  Enjoy your moments!!

-Bonnie

The sunflowers are facing the sun. ©Bonnie Druschel

A tall sunflower standing out amongst the crowd. ©Bonnie Druschel

There’s a monarch butterfly flying over the sunflowers. ©Bonnie Druschel

A variety of sunflowers. ©Bonnie Druschel

A silhoutte of sunflowers against the blue sky and clouds. ©Bonnie Druschel

Sunflower magic. ©Bonnie Druschel

Some of the 350,000 sunflowers I visited today. ©Bonnie Druschel

On our way back from New York the other day, we passed a sign on the highway that read “Sunflower Maze.”   So, today, I visited the farm and yes…they planted 350,000 sunflowers…that’s a huge number!  I have never seen that many sunflowers in one place, it was beautiful, fun and magical.  There were little girls in the maze with their fairy dresses on waving their wands, it was so much fun.  Bonnie  www.lymanorchards.com

"Do I have to?" ©Bonnie Druschel

There are many intelligent species in the universe.  They are all owned by cats.

 - Anonymous

Tom and I laugh about how our cat, Cleo, owns us, it’s as if we are living in her house.  And we think we have her trained, however, she has us trained.  It’s all good and we love “serving” her…she’s GREAT!!

Happy Monday!

-Bonnie

Rocks & Black-Eyed Susan’s. ©Bonnie Druschel

On my late afternoon walk yesterday, I came across these beautiful black-eyed Susan’s contrasted with these rocks.  I felt really happy looking at the yellow petals of the flower.  Color has a powerful effect on the psyche.  I’m grateful for my eyesight!…and for all my senses.  My husband tells me I have the nose of a wolf, I guess I’m just extra sensitive to smell–which is really great b/c I get to take in all the fragrance from the wonderful flowers I come across.  Happy weekend enjoyment!

©Bonnie Druschel. A guy fly fishing at the base of Puffer’s Pond waterfall.

A few days ago, after a meeting I had in Amherst, I decided to go for a walk around Puffer’s Pond.  It’s one of my favorite places to go because you can swim from one end of the pond to the other end,  I love that!!  This one time I was floating on my back and a family of ducks swam by, it made me laugh…it was a real special moment.    However, my favorite is watching the waterfall, what I mean to say…is experiencing the falls–the movement, the sound, the spray, the color….it is so majestic.   As I made  my way back to my car, I stopped to see this guy fly fishing at the base of the waterfall.  It was very relaxing to watch him toss the fishing line in and out of the water.  We  waved to each other and I went on my way.  This morning, I saw Jane Fonda on an early morning television show and she fly fishes and went on to say that you have to be 100% present when you fly fish and that’s how she practices being in the moment.  I guess whatever way works best for you.   Enjoy your day!!

©Bonnie Druschel

©Bonnie Druschel

It’s pointless to run around trying to heal all of our friends. We cannot force others to change. Each person is here to work out his or her own lessons, and if we fix it for them, then they will just go and do it again, because they have not worked out what they needed to do for themselves. All we can do is love them and allow them to be who they are.

 - Louise L. Hay

Sniff, sniff, .... they smell so good. ©Bonnie Druschel

Our cat, Cleo, is sitting on the table next to the white roses I received from my sister Joanne.  It wasn’t my birthday or anything like that…she just gave me flowers because she felt like giving me something, she is so sweet.  As soon as I placed the flowers on the table, Cleo had to check them out.  I loved watching her brush her face in the flowers and smelling them, she is so cute.  I really appreciate Cleo and all the happiness she brings to our family.  So glad she is in our life thanks to my mother.  Here’s the story….

About 15 years ago, Tom and I were going on vacation and my mother volunteered to watch our cat Cali at her home.  We brought her over and said that Cali is in heat….whatever you do…don’t let her go outside.  Well, we get back from vacation and ask where Cali is…the response was…I just opened the door a little bit and as soon as you guys left for vacation…. she took off and I haven’t seen her since.  Tom and I went outside looking for her all over the place calling her name  and, about 20 minutes later,  I saw her crawling out of a ditch all greasy, dirty, and looking exhausted.  We welcomed her back, washed her up, and took her back home.  Well, in a couple of months she had five kittens.  Our intention was to find homes for all of the kittens but a friend said to me that we should keep one.  So, we did…we kept Cleo…and I’m so thankful my mother accidentally let Cali out of the house.   I guess is was suppose to happen that way, otherwise it wouldn’t have.

Have a fun day,

Bonnie

©Bonnie Druschel

The other day I passed by this pink rose and I had to “stop and smell the roses.”  The fragrance was sweet and spicy all at the same time…..ahhhhhhhhhh…

Enjoy your day.

- Bonnie

Sunset Outside My Kitchen Window. ©Bonnie Druschel

Yesterday, I peeked through the curtains out the window and saw the sky looking like  red, orange and purple velvet,  it took my breath away.  So amazing!  

- Bonnie

"I'm on top of the world..." ©Bonnie Druschel

Use the talents you possess – for the woods would be a very silent place if no birds sang except for the best.

- Henry Van Dyke

“How do I look?” … “like you’re fun to be with!!” ©Bonnie Druschel

My husband, Tom, is known for his stories and always has a joke to tell.  He loves to goof around and make people laugh.  I love to watch him; he is so ON all the time and enthusiastic.

This month, we celebrated our 26th year wedding anniversary and I was telling our friend about it.  He said to me, “how do you do that?”  I laughed….and said that we’ve both been through a lot of changes over the years and some challenges as well but we really love each other.  I continued to say that if we need to talk about something or someone’s feelings get hurt, etc. we address it  in that moment.  Sometimes it can take a little while to process and other times, it’s over and we are back to having fun. 

I took this photo of Tom, at a store in California this year, when we were trying on sun glasses and hats.  We were cracking up laughing,  it was a blast!

Watering the flowers at Child's Park. ©Bonnie Druschel

On a very hot day last week, I stopped  at Child’s Park for a few minutes to take some photos  and was pleasantly surprised to see these spray hoses set up in the perennial garden.  In a flash, it took me back to my childhood.  Timing was everything.  I was contemplating for a few minutes…should I / shouldn’t I…. I watched the spray arch go back and forth a few times spotting the rainbows hidden in the shower then…I did it !!  A light sprinkle of water blanketed me and felt really good.  It was so much fun to try not-to-get-wet.  With that said, what good times from your childhood can you reignite to make you feel more alive today?  Bring back the fun!

- Bonnie

©Bonnie Druschel

Last year in California we, by chance, found Moon Stone Beach in Cambria.  I felt so happy to find all these different colored stones that we don’t have on the East coast.  It was so much fun to find the rocks and extremely relaxing as well.  When I got home, I displayed them on this teal plate and took a photo.   We are so lucky to live on such an abundant and giving planet.  As Spock would say, “live long and prosper.”  I have a story about Leonard Nimoy.  He is an amazing photographer and a couple of years ago here in Northampton had a show at a local art gallery.  My husband, Tom and I wanted to meet him.  Unfortunately, we had prior commitments on both nights.  I was so disappointed.  Anyways, I let go and on Sunday, Tom and I were taking a drive towards the Route 47 Flea Market in Hadley.  I got this strong feeling to go….I jumped out of my seat–TURN into the market.  We were looking for a parking space when all the sudden I glanced over and screamed…”There’s Lenoard Nimoy!!”  We parked the car, got out and I was soooo shy that I didn’t go with Tom to say hello to him.  What a chicken I was.  Here..I’m given the opportunity to meet with him and I’m too scared.  Tom came back and said what a nice man he was.  So, I got up the courage and as he was walking to his van to leave, I went up to him and said “hello.”  We didn’t shake hands…we ended up shaking arms….it was the funniest thing.  And, I also got his autograph on the back of my business card.  I’m so happy that I met him…what a great moment…..what a great day!

- Bonnie

©Bonnie Druschel.

May today there be peace within.  May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be.  May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.  May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.  May you be content knowing you are a child of God.  Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.  It is there for each and every one of us.

- St. Theresa

I had so much fun playing in the sand.  It was so soft and warm and felt so good to let the grains of sand fall through my fingers. BTW I took that photo…pretty good, huh?

©Bonnie Druschel. Sun, cloud, sunflower

“To be beautiful means to be yourself. You don’t need to be accepted by others. You need to accept yourself.” 

- Thich Nhat Hanh

Happy Summer Solstice !!

©Bonnie Druschel. Cleo is taking a mid-afternoon nap

Albert Einstein is famous for his belief in daily 20-minute naps . . . so take yourself off to the conference room for an Einstein nap and come back smarter. Or try a Salvador Dali nap by holding your keys in your hand above a plate on the floor; when you fall asleep, the keys will drop onto the plate and wake you up. (The modern alternative — setting your cell phone’s alarm for 20 minutes — lacks so much artistic flair in comparison.)

©Bonnie Druschel. Wind chimes made out of shells.

I had to photograph these wind chimes when I was on vacation last month in San Diego, California.  They were displayed outside of the store at our hotel and looked so pretty in the sunshine.  The colors made me feel good and they had a really relaxing tone when the breeze came through.  Now, I wish they were here with me in my studio.  How fun!!

©Bonnie Druschel.

©Bonnie Druschel. The sun is kissing the water and waterfall on this spring morning.

On my morning walk at 5:30 a.m. today, I came upon the sun glistening on this beautiful waterfall.  I love that the sun hit the mist of the water coming off of the falls as well.  Once again, so glad I had my camera with me.

Have a great weekend!

-Bonnie

©Bonnie Druschel. Cleo sitting in the sun on the table next to the sunflowers.

- Buddha

©Bonnie Druschel.

Sometimes I find myself totally in my head thinking, thinking, thinking…and…then I become aware of that and bring myself back into the moment.  While driving in my car the other day my head was racing with thoughts.  I remembered what I had learned in a class I took a few years ago about “Being In The Moment.”  I started to say to myself … “oh there’s a green sign, a red sign with the words STOP on it, etc.” and within a few moments, I was out of my head.  At times like that,  I miss out on the beautiful trees, flowers, birds, etc.  It really works–give it a try for yourself.

With Kung Fu Panda II coming out today, over the weekend, I decided to watch Kung Fu Panda I again.  What a great movie and I took away what I needed to hear from Master Oogway, the turtle and it goes like this.  

“Yesterday is history.  Tomorrow is a mystery.  Today is a gift, that’s why they call it the present.”

How simple & true and a great principle to live your life by….YES!

Have a great day!!  Bonnie

©Bonnie Druschel. Sunset in May in San Diego, California.

Peace is when you know that God is holding your hand every step of the way.

-Gerald Jampolsky

©Bonnie Druschel. Sitting Under The Crab Apple Tree

Move and a way will open.

- Zen Proverb

What a beautiful tree I met today.  It was a perfect Spring day….this tree was in full-bloom and the flowers were so white and fragrant.  I took this photo while sitting on a bench under the tree.

Enjoy your week!!

©Bonnie Druschel. Pink Tulips

I know you’re going to make it…

it may take time and hard work. 

You may become frustrated

and at times you’ll feel like giving up.

Sometimes you may even wonder if it’s really worth it.

But I have confidence in you,

and I know you’ll make it, if you try.

-Amanda Pierce

©Bonnie Druschel. Cleo is enjoying the shade.

Today at our friends fathers funeral, his 13 year old grandson got up and said a few words about him and it went something like this.  “This one time I slept over my grandparents house and I wake up really early…about 5 a.m. and when I went into the kitchen my grandfather was making pancakes and I said to him, “grampa why are you up so early, I thought I was the only one who wakes up early,”  and he said to me, “you have to make the most of everyday.”  Then he started to cry…you could see how much he loved his grandfather.  It was the sweetest and most tender-honest moment and such a great reminder…. to….make the most of everyday.

-Bonnie

©Bonnie Druschel.

Follow your dreams and pursue them with courage for it is the pursuit of those dreams that makes life really worth living.

- Linda DuPuy Moore

©Bonnie Druschel.

The only thing that EVER bothers me is if someone steps on my tail or pulls it on purpose.  Otherwise, I’m content  running around, clawing the furniture, having something to eat, playing with my catnip, having a drink of water….Life is so good….I really am a Queen and I love being served!  Have a great day…meow.

- Cleo

©Bonnie Druschel. Take the first step towards what you want to do.

Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new.

- Einstein

©Bonnie Druschel.

If fear is cultivated it will become stronger.  If faith is cultivated it will achieve the mastery.  Faith is the stronger emotion because it is positive, whereas fear is negative.

- John Paul Jones

©Bonnie Druschel. Meow....I always love myself....prrrrrrrrrrrrr

- Louise Hay, www.louisehay.com

©Bonnie Druschel.

A few years ago, Tom and I traveled to Costa Rica for the first time and it was an amazing vacation.  This one day we just decided to go for a short drive which became a long drive.  As we were about to turn around and find our way back to the hotel, right around the bend was this beautiful waterfall and roses with a statue of Mother Mary.  Thankfully I had my camera and took this photograph.  It was so majestic to stumble upon this sight out of nowhere.  The warm breeze and sound of the water with the spray misting my face and the sweet smell of roses in the air, took my breath away.  I just felt so blessed and grateful and took it as a sign that I am always guided…By the way, we only knew a stitch of Spanish.  1) Ola  2) Gracias 3) donde están los cuartos de baño
and  4) Grande agua.  We got around just fine and the people were so kind and happy.   Thanks and have a great weekend.  PEACE.

©Bonnie Druschel. Yellow dog wants black dogs stick

Every time I follow my inner voice, I feel more life and energy.  Every time I go against it, I feel the struggle in my body.  If I continue to push myself past what my body wants, I become increasingly tired and lifeless.  The choice is simple, life or death.  Moment to moment become keenly aware of what makes you feel most alive.  Start a list of these “alive” times and consciously choose these activities for yourself.

- Shakti Gawain

Here’s a small list of what makes me feel good (in no particular order:  1) Smelling the flowers often. 2) Going for a walk in nature. 3) Looking at the sky and the clouds. 4) Looking at all the “stuff” when I go to a store. 5) Watching a funny movie. 6) Spending time with Tom. 7) Playing with my cat, Cleo. Taking a nap. 9) Enjoying a cup of coffee with a friend or sister(s).

©Bonnie Druschel. 5 chicks in a nest out on our deck.

There is nothing in which the birds differ more from man than the way in which they can build and yet leave a landscape as it was before.

- Robert Lynd

Last Spring, on a really hot day I wanted to put the air conditioner on.  However, before doing that I needed to take the A/C cover off the back of it.  About to undo it, I noticed a mound of leaves and twigs up there.  My thoughts..”oh those damn squirrels..”  Going inside I asked my tall husband to take a look.  He peeked inside and shouted to me, “Bon, it’s a birds nest.”  I rushed out with my step stool to take a look.  It was empty so I figured a bird set up home there for the winter.  However, I still wanted the A/C on.  The idea came to me to put on my yellow dish gloves and carefully pick up the birds nest to remove the cover.  So, I did that and gently put it back.  Ahhhh….cool air.  As the days passed, I started seeing this flash of light out of the corner of my eye…in-and-out..in-and-out a split second here and there.  Not thinking too much about it but a little curious I brought out my step stool again to take a look.  Oh my gosh– two chicks…I couldn’t believe it…I was so excited!!  The days were still hot so the  A/C was still on.  After another visit to the nest,  I felt the top of the A/C and it was pretty HOT.  Oh no, it’s too hot for the birds…..I quickly thought of what to do.  Fortunately, I had this 2″ thick piece of foam insulation in the basement and went downstairs to get it.  I put on my yellow rubber gloves again and gently picked up the nest and slipped the pink piece of foam under the nest.  A sigh of relief….  When the A/C was off I had the screen door open and I started hearing “peep-peep” — how fun.  And as the days passed the peeping got louder and louder.  Hmmmmm….sounds like more than 2 of them in there.   I took another look inside the nest and there were FIVE precious chicks in there.  How sweet.  I felt so honored to have these guests.  Sounds so silly, but it means so much to me.  Anyways, I ran to get my camera and took this photo.  They are all squished together so, you only see a couple of them.  After three weeks, my guests took flight.  I wonder if they come back and visit where they grew up, I like to think so.  Happy Spring!!

©Bonnie Druschel.

When setting out on a journey, do not seek advice from someone who has never left home.

- Rumi

©Bonnie Druschel.

No act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted.

-Aesop

©Bonnie Druschel.

I’m in a wonderful position:  I’m unknown, I’m underrated, and there’s nowhere to go but up.

- Pierre S. Dupont IV

©Bonnie Druschel. My Great nephew at the butterfly sanctuary

1)  Peace of mind is our single goal.

2)  Forgiveness is our single function, and the way to achieve our goal of peace of mind.

3)  Through forgiveness, we can learn not to judge others and to see everyone, including ourselves, as guiltless.

4)  We can let go of fear when we stop judging and stop projecting the past into the future, and live only in the now.

5)  We can learn to accept direction from our inner, intuitive voice, which is our guide to knowing.

6)  After our inner voice gives us direction, it will also provide the means for accomplishing whatever is necessary.

7)  In following one’s inner guidance, it is frequently necessary to make a commitment to a specific goal even when the means for achieving it are not immediately apparent.  This is a reversal of the customary logic of the world, and can be thought of as “putting the cart before the horse.”

8)  We do have a choice in determining what we perceive and the feelings we experience.

9)  Through retraining of the mind we can learn to use positive active imagination.  Positive active imagination enables us to develop positive, loving motion pictures in our minds.

An excerpt from “Love Is Letting Go Of Fear,” by Gerald G. Jampolsky, M.D.

©Bonnie Druschel.

A thing that you sincerely believe in cannot be wrong.

- D.H. Lawrence

©Bonnie Druschel.

 I may not be able to control the outside world, but I can control the thoughts in my own mind.

- Dr. Gerald Jampolsky

©Bonnie Druschel.

Be Yourself…then you get “Heaven On Earth.”

©Bonnie Druschel. Nature communicating with us in the form of symbols.

Love yourself a little bit more everyday.

- Louise Hay

Happy Valentine’s Day…xoxox

- Bonnie

©Bonnie Druschel.

Working and receiving money may no longer be directly related to each other.  You are doing what you want to do and money is coming into your life.  It is no longer a matter of doing work and then getting paid for it.  The two things may be operating simultaneously in your life, but not necessarily in a direct cause and effect relationship.

Trust that if you are doing what you love, the money will come.  As you give love and joy to what you do, and as you receive love and joy from what you do, you are operating in a harmonious flow with spirit.  The universe then becomes your employer, totally supporting you.

I follow my energy and the Universe takes care of me.

- Shakti Gawain

©Bonnie Druschel.. The sun is setting at my favorite place to walk.

Here is wonderful quote from my artist friend and mentor RD Riccoboni.

“Be at peace. Peace is ageless. Peace is your anti aging secret weapon.”

-RD Riccoboni, www.beacon-artworks.com 

This is RD’s new book called, “The Big Picture,” that is coming out this spring.  It is a must have book for artists, be sure to get a copy at www.beacon-artworks.com.

©Bonnie Druschel. Yesterday, I wrote the word LOVE in the fresh snowfall….how fun!!

The quote below is from my dear friend, Heidi Boone.

©Bonnie Druschel.. Cleo's getting into action for a treat.

This is a quote from my dear friend, Claire McCarthy.

“Put the Law Of Attraction into action.”

Cleo does it.  She’s always putting the Law Of Attraction into action by asking for what she wants–usually….treats!  She’s so funny and fury.

©Bonnie Druschel. Frozen Waterfall at Puffer's Pond, Amherst, Mass.

This quote is from my beautiful sister, Joanne Dolan.

“The more I include God in to my life, the more true I am to myself, and the easier it is for me to love myself and achieve my goals!”

©Bonnie Druschel. Cleo is relaxing and taking a siesta...one of many during the day.

We strive so hard to make our lives the way we want them to be.  As you begin this day imagine that you can give up struggling for a whole day.  Relax for a while, and trust that your needs will be met by the natural flow of  life.

The philosophy of being here now and letting go of attachment is a very freeing experience.  When you do this, you discover that you’re really perfectly okay, in fact you feel quite wonderful.  You can just let yourself be, let the world be, and give up the struggle of trying to change things.  I relax and let myself be.

- Shakti Gwain

But rather, focus your attention on what you are doing now,

and what you want to do in the future 

Don’t concentrate on any mistakes that might have been made,

but learn from them.

- Debbie Avery

©Bonnie Druschel.

©Bonnie Druschel.

Be All That You Can Be

Champion the right to be yourself,

Dare to be different

     and to set your own pattern;

Live your own life,

     and follow your own star.

- Lin Yutang

©Bonnie Druschel.

A PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT

Holy Spirit, You who made me see everything and showed me the way to reach my ideal.  You, who gave me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and you, who are in all instances of my life with me.  I, in this short dialogue want to thank you for everything and confirm once more that I never want to be separated from you no matter how great the material desire may be.  I want to be with you and my loved ones in your perpetual glory.  Amen.  Thank you for your love towards me and my loved ones.  Persons must pray the prayer three consectutive days without asking your wish.  After third day wish will be granted no matter how difficult it may be.  Then promise to publish this dialogue as soon as this favor is granted.  I will never stop trusting in God and His power.