I Have So much to do Before Christmas

I have things I must do before Christmas
Don't ask why I have procrastinated thus far
If we weren't picking guests up at the airport
I think I'd hide the clutter in the car...

I have laundry to do before Christmas,
Beds to change and puppy dogs to train
I think I would put my scrapping stuff on the patio
If the weather man promised me it wouldn't rain...

I have groceries to buy and cookies to bake;
I have dusting to do and rugs to clean,
And when I shoo the pups off the freshly cleaned sofa
They think that I'm just being mean...

I have packages to mail before Christmas
They should have gone out last week
But I didn't have enough packing peanuts
And didn't want the gifts to break...

I have so much stuff to do before Christmas
That I fear my brain I might unduly tax
So I think the best thing for me to do
Is to sit in my Lazy Boy Recliner and relax...

Thena

These Baby Hands

These Baby Hands

As a mother of a newborn baby
Cradled in the manger for a bed
I wonder what thoughts
Were going through Mary’s head.

Did she count the fingers and the toes
On the perfect baby at her breast
Knowing just the extent
To which she had been blessed?

As she held those tiny hands
And kissed each precious finger
Did she celebrate only that moment
Or on the future did her thoughts linger?

Did she foresee the nails
That would pierce his grown up hand
Or did God not show her how He would save us
Would that be more than a mother could stand?

As the angels celebrated the Holy birth
Did they know the day would come
When they would see the cruel tree
That would hold God’s only son?

I celebrate the baby Jesus
I celebrate the one He grew to be
I celebrate the King of Kings
Who came to set us free.

I celebrate His first coming
As a baby so tiny and mild
Born as an infant to Mary
Who raised this special child.

I watch for His coming again
And it is my daily prayer
That when He comes to us again
I will be worthy to meet Him in the air.

Thena

I Enjoy Doing Nothing With You

I enjoy doing nothing with you
But please don't take this wrong
You are such a special friend
That we can sit in silence
Without a thing to do
And nary a word spoken
And our friendship won't suffer
Nor will it be broken.
So when I have nothing to do
I enjoy doing it with you!
Thena Cullen Smith

My Socks Don't Match

My socks don't match!

My socks don't match!
Do you think anyone will care?
They don't match each other
But they match my other pair.





My shoes don't match
One is a flat and the other is a stack
One of them is blue and the other one is black
I don't remember buying them...
But I must have liked them a lot
For they look exactly
Like another pair I've got...

Tears

Tears are a gift from God
To help us when we're sad
And to show our joy
When something makes us glad.

Tears are cleansing agents
Of body, soul and spirit
Releasing our emotion
where we can see and hear it.

God sees every tear drop
Perhaps He catches them as they fall
Is that why the ocean is so full
Would it hold them all?

Don't try to hide your tears
And never be ashamed to show
Your love, joy and happiness
They are gifts from God, you know.

Don't hide your tears of hurt
Or anguish, pain and grief
Just let them flow
Trust God for blessed sweet relief.

For God created each of us
And knows every thing we do
Don't hesitate to seek His forgiveness
For nothing under the sun is new.

Worry not about what people will think
IF they heard you confess an evil deed
For God knows all of our sins already
And His forgiveness is all you need.

A Blessing

God bless you and keep you
Forever in His care.
He loves you
And protects you
And blesses the talents you share.
He lifts you up like the eagle
When you are tired and worry
Stay steady in Him
He will nudge you when you should hurry.
And will lead you to the places
Where you are needed to be
By our Awesome God
Creator of earth, sky and sea
While others may look at you
And see just an ordinary woman or man
You know that you are a masterpiece
Created by God's loving hand.
Thena Cullen Smith

God Bless Our Troops

God Bless Our Troops

I see the happy reunions on TV
Families reunited, together again at last
The way they were meant to be
And then I hear that some must return
Somehow a few weeks home
They were able to earn.
Lord, bless these days with loved ones
And let special memories be made for each one
And soon let them all return home safely again-
Each husband, wife,mom, dad, daughter and son
Thena Cullen Smith

Sometimes the Light Hurts Our Eyes

Sometimes the Light Hurts Our Eyes

My lights in my workroom had grown dim
With a number of bulbs burnt out
But having problems with my eyes
That it was my vision's fault, I had no doubt.
But once my vision was repaired
I saw how dark the room had become
And replaced each of the burnt out bulbs
One by one by one.
The room grew so bright, that to my surprise
I found at first I had to shield my eyes
For they were so accustomed to the gloom
They were pained from the brightly lit room.

Sometimes in life we get used to the darkness
That gets worse and worse each day
Only our Father can take that gloom away
He brings such brightness such truth and love
That shines from Him who Created Heaven above.
At first we may want our eyes to hide
Least He shine that light inside
Revealing all our faults and fears
But first He wipes away our tears
And bids us come and enjoy Sonshine and Peace
For His love and mercy is real and will never cease.

I pray my eyes never again go back
Into the world so dim and black
But that His light through me would shine
For I am His and He is mine.
Thena Cullen Smith

Christmas Baby

Little baby in the hay
Manger as your bed
So many years ago
Sheep and cattle saw you rest your head.
Today the manger scene is replayed
In cathedrals magnificent as can be
As folks gather from miles around
The Holy family they wish to see.
It reminds us how you came to earth
A gift from God above us
To save us from all of our sins
Because of how He loves us.
Thena

Happy Birthday

A picture is worth a thousand words
At least that's what I've heard
But I have no photograph to send
That says Happy Birthday to a friend
So I hope this little verse will do
And express my birthday wish to you!

When Loss of a Loved One is Fresh

When Loss of a Loved One is Fresh

It’s hard to face the day without someone we love-
So hard to see that empty chair,
And know that they will never again be there.
It’s hard to see the world go on as usual-
Laughing and smiling and singing and having fun
Going on just as if the world hadn’t crumbled for you
Leaving you so very lonely, sad and blue.

It’s hard to find things that matter
As much as they did yesterday or the day before.
It’s as if nothing will be fun anymore.
How can you ever smile or laugh or sing,
Or enjoy sunshine in summer or flowers in spring…

At first it seems as if life as you knew it
Has stopped and has been stilled forever.
You may be aggravated at all the sympathetic glances
And understanding looks, reverting to your photos and books
As you try to absorb every wonderful moment from the past
Fortunately this will ease and will not last.

We who as humans are so connected to ones we love,
Have a way of welcoming new friends into our lives-
Even with the loss of husbands or wives
And though we never forget the ones for which we grieve
Our loving Father will this pain relieve
And in life, love and happiness, again we can believe.

Keep looking up if you are in despair
With a heart that is lost in pain
Trust in God to bring you that sweet relief
And that before too long, you too will smile again.

Thena

I Just Gave My Dog a Bath

I just gave my dog a bath
And since she is clean and wet
I guess that means to most
That the bath was a great success.

I washed her little fur covered frame
From face to tail end
And she was so cute all sopping wet
She really made me grin.

I rinsed her off so gently-
What a picture she would make!
And I was surprising fairly dry
Until she began to shake!

Thena

God Bless Those whose Loved Ones Are Missing

God bless those families who have empty chairs
That greet them at the holiday meal
Bless them with Your gentle touch
And let them know that You are real.

Dry the tears that softly escape
From those trying so hard to be brave for others
And comfort those who morn
For fathers and for mothers

Touch those who are missing sons and daughters
And surround them with those who care
Those who understand their loss
And who are willing their burden to share.

Bless all who gather together
And comfort all of those who weep today
Help us to be there for those who need us
All this in Jesus' Name we pray.
Thena

This Time Last Year...

Some folks are in that place
So difficult to withstand
"This time last year
I could hold my loved one's hand."

This time last year you were together
And life was the way it was meant to be
You laughed and talked and enjoyed
Each day's golden opportunities.

The calendar pages have turned
And time has moved on
While to you it seems as if only yesterday
Your loved one was called away.

We who love you know that today
Might be difficult to get through
Please forgive us if we can't find the words
That you would like to hear us say.

Please know that we love you
And we sincerely care
And throughout this special day
We have remembered you in prayer.
Thena Cullen Smith

I'm Going to Be Happy Today

I'm going to be happy today!
No one can take my joy away
No matter what they may do or say
I'm going to be happy all day!
I'm going to be joyful this morning
And smile throughout the day
And I'll be filled with delight
From morning until night
And speak peace with the words I say.
I'm going to be loving today
To friends who come my way
I'll be kind to all relatives of mine
And react with love without delay.
I'm going to have an exceptional day
Just you want and see
I'll be so outstanding and non demanding
That you will be proud of me!
I spent so long planning my day
That the morning has flown away
So much to my sorrow
I will start this tomorrow
And nothing will get in my way...

Thena

Lord, I'm just a gentle poet-

Lord, I'm just a gentle poet-
In a world that is moving so fast
Rushing toward temporal things that will not last.
How can I as one who is not physically strong,
And not counted as intellectually gifted,
Do my part to change a wandering path,
Or help heal a wounded and damaged heart?
I know that you have those who help
Whose intellectual abilities are among the brightest
And whose footsteps are among the lightest
In races on earth and in flights to space
And I'm just an aging little face
That sometimes can only offer a poem and a smile,
In hopes they bring comfort for a short while,
Or a silly little riddle to bring a tiny grin
To someone who longs to smile again.
Thena

Happy Birthday Dear Friend

Happy Birthday to my friend
On this your special day
May God rain down blessings from above
And bless you in a special way.
May your day be filled with joy
And your years to come be blessed
With love and peace in your heart
And all the things you love the best.
May you continue in His path
Doing the special things you do
Knowing that the Lord above
Is blessing others lives through you.
Love,
Thena

The Art of Life

Our lives are like an art gallery
Where scenes from our lives are hung.
Jesus can walk along with us
And remove the hurtful paintings –one by one.

Along each wall are pictures
of each painful memory and tear,
But as we walk along with Him,
They start to disappear.

One by one those sad things
Are taken from the wall
And with each goes the painful memories-
Jesus takes them all.

As we walk each day with Him,
New paintings will appear
To line the empty gallery walls-
In colors bright and clear.

Lord, help me paint new pictures
In colors bright and true,
And in the center of each one,
Lord, let everyone see You!

Thena Cullen Smith
5/14/82

For Someone Who is Hurting

If you are feeling lost and alone
With feelings that are approaching despair
Lift your prayers to God
And know that He is always there
Waiting for you to call on Him
Whether it be night or day
He can lift you up and heal your pain
And make you whole again.
Thena Cullen Smith

Happy Birthday Dear Friend

While with stars and Starlets
Plastic surgery is the rage,
Some ladies, like you, have birthdays,
Yet never seem to age!
You just get more beautiful
In every single way
Though it's hard to believe
You've had another birthday!
You say it's today-
so it must be true
So with lots and lots of love
We say Happy Birthday to you!

Take a Photo of Mom Day

Ladies, make sure your family takes your photo
While you are young and in your prime,
Even though you may say you are too busy
And don’t want to take the time.
Have someone snap your photo
To record you with your family,
For it’s important that your photo
Is there for everyone to see!
Make sure they snap that picture
When you are on vacation,
And record yourself in photo
At each birthday and holiday celebration.
Let each precious year be recorded
Without negative deliberation,
For only in your later years
Will you realize the
“gravity” of the situation!

Thena

You Need a Smile

If you need a pick me up- smile
And as you smile for awhile
Let your smile tickle your face
and let the corners of your lips
Wiggle Into a giggle
And once you giggle
Which is half of a laugh
Just let your self feel the joy
That comes after
And then comes -laughter!
And it's that laughter
That we are after!
Thena Cullen Smith

A couple of birthday verses

Some of your friends will send serious cards
While others will opt for funny
Some may send a classy gift
And others decide on money
But poets like me send little verses
That may simply say
My very best wishes I send
For a wonderfully Happy Birthday!


I had the date marked on my calendar
Marked that date in red
But without my glasses
Couldn't read what it said!
Fortunately FB reminded me
(Just hope it was in time)
That today was the birthday
Of a friend of mine!
Happy Birthday!

Alvin

Alvin was a tiny cat-
The runt of the litter
But he was a cutie pie
Not an angry cat or bitter.
"Let's take him home
And fatten his bones"
We said to each other
And I became his nuturer
Alvin's human mother.
We fed that cat and
loved that cat,
keeping him alive
Until instead of a couple of pounds
He now weighs 25!
Thena

Keep Looking Up

Keep looking up!
It's not as bad as you fear
You are not alone
For God is always near
Ready to help you
When you feel ready to fall
All you have to do is to trust, believe
And on His Name to call.
You may wonder if He is there
But He can see your heart
And hear the softest whisper of a prayer.
Thena

God Bless the Police Officers

What would our community do
Without our men and women in blue?
They patrol the streets to keep us safe
And to violent offenders
They oft times give chase.
They drive by our homes both day and night
And it’s these officers we call when we have a fright
From prowlers that we hear outside
And noises that cause us to want to hide.
Although we may not like to see their lights
Flashing behind us when we drive
They enforce the rules of the road
That help to keep us all alive.
We are grateful to the officers
The men and women who wear a badge
And whose lives are sometimes in danger
As their jobs they do
While protecting folks like me
And folks like you.
Thena

The Policeman

There’s a man in our neighborhood
That no one wants to meet
By having him flash his lights behind them
As they are driving down the street.
But he’s one first one whose number
They search for when in serious trouble
For they trust that he will come
And will get there in a hurry.
From guarding the folks at special functions
To arresting those who commit a serious crime
He’s the one that people trust to do the job
And I’m glad he is a personal friend of mine.
Thena

Lord Bless The EMT


What would we do without them
They do so very much
And yet get so little praise
Many an EMT
Has prolonged someone's days.
They know how to do the things
That can save a life on the go
And that we appreciate them
We should let them know.
Thena



Thank You EMT


Thank you EMT
For the care you give your patients
Who soon will be on their way
To the hospital for care
But need help right away.
I hope you know you are special
And appreciated for all you do
That's why this little verse
Was written just for you.

Thena

She's a Dreamer

"She's a dreamer. they said,
Whose eyes often have a far away look
And whose hands are oft times busy
Scribbling down little notes."
And from time to time
(Although they do not know it),
Others see the results
Of her dreams and all the things she wrote.

Husbands Are God’s Gift

Husbands are such a wonderful gift
Only they can give our hearts such a lift
When our days are going badly
And our hearts are reacting sadly.
Only they know us so well
That they know our heartaches
Even before we tell.
They seem to know our heartfelt prayer
Even before we have the courage to share
Husbands hold such a special place
In our lives, our home and our family
That it must bring God joy to see
And I praise Him for the one He gave to me.
Thena

A Love Song

Sometimes I hear in my heart, a love song
And I sing it loud and strong
When suddenly I realize
That you are there singing along.

Sometime I feel a sadness
Over a loss of friend or family
And suddenly without warning
You are there to comfort me.

God is the one who made us
And I have to believe He knew
That the love song that is within my heart
Was meant for me to sing to you.
Thena Smith

My Puppy Surfs the Web

My pup is on the internet
She surfs the web each day
I have to check her Facebook page
To see what she wants to say.
She signed up on some message boards
Using my board ID
And now the folks on those groups
Think that she is me!
She shops a lot at Pets are Us
And Amazon as well
But hubby says she spends less than I
So he doesn’t want me to tell.
Thena

I Went Fishing

Today I went fishing
And caught a little fish
She was such a tiny thing
I put her in a dish
Mommy asked how I caught a fish
And were there any more
Then I told her about the big ole tank
At the pet section in the store...
She made me take my fishy back
And then we bought the fish
Along with some food, a big glass bowl
And other things for which she might wish.
I guess that I should admit to her
About the other thing I "caught"
So that she knows the rules I now appreciate-
Oops! We're headed back to the store to confesss:
Mommy just found the snake...

Before You Stop to Smell a Rose

If you stop to smell a flower
With a lovely bloom so sweet
I pray you will enjoy the fragrance
So uplifting and unique
But I feel that I must caution you
Lest you do not see
That at times the sweetest rose
Can house a most ungracious bee!

Thena Cullen Smith

I Saw You Smile

I saw you smile today
A sweet smile when you glanced my way
Even though how much I needed it
you didn't know
Unless God told you so
And caused you to smile a smile
Which I would see
And which would mean so much to me.
I saw you smile today
And it caused me to smile as well
And others may have needed that smile
That I sent their way
And it may have been multiplied
All throughout the day.
Thena Cullen Smith

Pray for Change

So many times when I pause to pray
"Lord change them" is what I want to say
But frequently when I bend my knee
He shows me that the change I crave
Should begin with me.
Thena

Your Words

Your words can make or break someone's day
Think before you speak
And weigh the words you say
For we can create memories in haste
That never go away.
Thena Cullen Smith

Family Reunion Prayer

God Bless Family Reunions
Where families gather in Your Name
Honoring You, Creator of the Universe
The One from Whom we came.
Bless each parent and each child,
Each brother and sister guide
Each Grandmother and Grandfather
Hold closely near Thy side.
Prepare us as we live our lives
In the families which we've been given
To bless You, Father, Lord of all
As You prepare us for our family
Which we will join in Heaven.
Thena

Family Reunion

In our family
Like any other
We love each mother, father, sister and brother.
Even if at times we hit a snag
We never let disagrements drag
But try to see that each conversation
Right from the start
Lifts our family up
And never wounds a heart.
We love each other
And consider our family our treasure
A group filled with love
Beyond all measure.
Each reunion is a special time for each one
TO show our love for each other and have lots of fun.

Thena Cullen Smith

Happy Birthday Dear Friend

Some people are so special
That we have to stop and say
Just how great we think they are
When it's their birthday!
Some people give to others
So much of themselves each day
That we have to search our hearts
For something special enough to say
I wish I could find a word to write
To adequately our wishes express
But I guess I will have to say
Happy Birthday dear friend
Hope this birthday is the best!
Thena

Goodbye Sweet Friend



It was your time, sweet furry friend
It was your time and we had to let you go
But it was not because we loved you any less
Just that for you we wanted what was best.
We could not stand by and watch you suffer
As daily you tried so valiantly
To do as you used to do
And to be what you used to be.
It was so hard to let you go
And my grieving days are not yet through
For no matter how many years may pass
There is a place in our hearts reserved just for you.
Thena

For Friends who lost a pet

Loss of Dog


Our Yogie lost her battle today
So quietly she passed away.
People said she was a lot like me
Well, as much as a doggie could be.

She stole my heart so instantly
When first I saw her and she saw me
From day one until she lost her fight
She daily brought us such joy and delight.

The day came when there was no doubt
Of the difficult task that I must do
No one had to tell me it was time
For in my heart, saddly, I knew.

But mercifully God saw fit
To let her be at home and sleep
In her favorite bed
For her heart's last beat.

I'm sadder than I thought I could ever bear
And tears flow, oh so frequently
As special memories come flooding back
Of just how much she meant to me.

God bless my little Yogie
And please keep her close
For of all the doggies I've ever had
She's the one who loved me most!

Thena

Birthday

Hey! It's your birthday!
I hope you celebrate
Enjoy the day with friends
And stay up very late!
Eat your cake and icecream
Let family do your wishes
Have a wonderful birthday meal
And let others do the dishes!

Missing You

I will have happy times
My whole life through
But I will never stop
Missing you!
I will celebrate and enjoy
The things I love to do
But I will always wish
You were here to enjoy them too.
I will not always wear a happy face
For at times I will be blue
But I will always smile
When I think of you
And will always love you, my dear friend
For friendship is eternal and doesn't ever end.
Thena Smith

Missing You (Mom and Dad)

Missing You

I will have happy times
My whole life through
But I will never stop
Missing you!
I will celebrate and enjoy
The things I love to do
But I will always wish
You were here to enjoy them too.
I will not always wear a happy face
For at times I will be sad
But I will always smile
When I think of you
And will always love you,Mom and Dad.
Thena Smith

Getting Older

Being Older

My eyesight is getting worse
And steps are getting slow
Sometimes I forget the names
Of people that I know.
My medicine cabinet is so full
That it has begun to overflow.
But I don't always need books
Or TV to entertain and delight
I can replay wonderful memories
Far into the night.
When I go to bed and cannot sleep right away
I just decide on a year of memories
That I want to replay.

Prayer for a Lost Pet

Fred has gotten out
And hasn't come back home
Please watch over her, Dear God
For she is out there all alone.
I know you love our animals
For You created them, each one
And it is my plea that you bring Fred home
Before the day is done.
She adds such happiness
And joy to our day
And it hurts my heart so very much
That she's not at home today.
If anyone has found her
Please have them return her to me
For I'm sure in my heart
That's where she really wants to be.

Old Age

Old age didn't come
With a BANG, or a CRASH or a ROAR
It crept in more like a s n o r e
And each day it creeps a bit m o r e...
Thena

Mea "Cuppa"

Mea "Cuppa"

I'm a poor little spider
Out to explore
Found a home
With an open door
Sat down to enjoy
A bit of a rest
And my swimming ability
Was put to the test.
Fell into a cup
Of coffee so black
That my spider senses
Never came back.
Listen to my story
And learn from me
Don't ever get close
To Al 's cuppa coffee!

Nothing Brings out the Silly


Nothing brings out the silly
In a man all grown
Than having little kids
And then grandkids of his own!

Grandkids can turn a grown man to mush
Just by smiling a tiny smile
They can ask for ice cream when it's snowing outside
And get him to walk a mile!

They can get him on all fours
Pretending to eat grass and hay
Most gramps have been the horsey at times
And never would say "neigh".


Thena

Bless My Child Who is Ill

Father, we trust You
More than our words can say
And love you above all others
We know You understand
The aching hearts of mothers
Who watch their child
Go through hurt, disease and pain
And long so very much
To have them whole again.
I ask You Father to heal
This little one who is so ill
And let them grow up as fine adults
Whose joy is to do Your will.
We ask that Your healing power
To this child You would send
And we will give you all the praise
In Jesus Name
Amen

I Saw a Commercial on TV

I Saw a Commercial on TV

I saw a commercial on TV
That promised to erase those lines
That were showing up on my face
(Although my friends said I looked just fine)

Then I found a crème at the store
That promised to erase 10 years
By just applying it each day
Beginning right below my ears.

My friend brought a free sample of numerous oils
So promising that I got ‘em
That promised to renew my complexion
Making it soft as a baby’s bottom.

The list went on and on that way
With wonderful products to make me
Look younger and younger
Every single day.

To me they all sounded promising
And each impressed me uniquely
But I ordered every single one
And I fear I shall disappear completely!
Thena

Dear Hubby or Dad

Dear Hubby/Dad

I went to buy a card for you
To tell you how great you are
But of all the verses I found
You are much better by far.
I searched the racks in store after store
Until not one was left
And not a single card I found
To adequately say what I felt.
Therefore it looks as if you have no card
To wish you a Happy Father’s Day
But be assured the search for next year’s card
Is already under way!
Happy Father’s Day!
Thena

No Father's Day Card

Dear Dad(or Hubby)
There are no cards
Left in the Store
So I can't get one anymore
The only thing
I know to do
Is to write a note
Saying "I Love You"
And promise next year
To be on time
To buy a card
To give to you
Perhaps it would be wise
For me to buy two!
Thena

Missing You

I will have happy times
My whole life through
But I will never stop
Missing you!
I will celebrate and enjoy
The things I love to do
But I will always wish
You were here to enjoy them too.
I will not always wear a happy face
For at times I will be sad
But I will always smile
When I think of you
And will always love you, Dad.
Thena Smith

Happy Father's Day

Happy Father's Day!

I love my husband Lord
I love my father too.
But on this special day, Dear Lord
I'd like to honor you!

I love you so very much Dear God
That I just want to say
How much I want to praise you Lord
And Happy Father's Day!

Thena

In Times of Grief

In Times of Grief

Ah how blessed is the sweet relief
Of absolute complete belief
In God the Father our Creator above us
How awesome to know how He doth love us!
No pain, no anguish or despair
Can destroy the power of one whispered prayer.
No evil exists that can take away
The power of the simplest prayer believers pray.
Oh how blessed is the love I feel
How sweet to know that God is real!

Thena

God Understands

God understands when we are sad
When things go wrong and times are bad,
He understands our doubts and fears
And hears our cries and sees our tears.
Let Him lift you up when those doubts arise
And wipe the tears from your weeping eyes.
Draw close to Him and trust that God above
Is the Lord of all and is a God of Love.

Sometimes Moms Graduate

Sometimes Moms Graduate

Sometimes moms work in offices
Or even fly a plane
Some moms might be plumbers
And open up clogged drains
While sometimes they go back to school
To exercise their brains
And sometimes moms graduate
And everyone can see
That they went back to school
And got their degree!
Congratulations Mom!
Thena

Graduate Mom

Congratulations Mom!

Congratulations to You, Mom!
You have finished the task
You did it on your own
And for no favors did you ask.
You took care of us at home
Even as you burned the midnight oil
And we knew if we needed you
We just had to call.
You are an example
Of all I desire to be
and to say
CONGRATULATIONS
I want to take the opportunity
No go out and celebrate-
You have the summer free!
Love you Mom!
Thena

Senior Seniors

Senior Seniors

Congratulations! You did it
And it wasn’t always easy
Sometimes the very thought of class
Made you a bit queasy!
But you hung in there
With all of those youngsters
And tried your very best
To follow all those directions
And pass all of those tests.
Now you stand before your kids
In your cap and gown, proud as can be
For your graduation is an honor
And a major victory!

Those Who Would Have Graduated (Loss)

Those Who Would Have Graduated

Lord I send this little prayer Your way
For the families of those
Who would have graduated today.
Each milestone after the loss
Of someone we hold dear
Seems not to go away
But lingers year after year.
Some families have empty seats
at high school graduations
And no limos picked up their teens for prom
But the memories of these dates
And what should have been
Keeps lingering on and on.
Our hearts hurt for them
And we don’t know what to do
Except, Father, to lift them up to you.
Please wrap your arms around them
And with you love surround them
Not only on this day
But the whole year though
For no one loves us more
Than You.
Thena

Teacher

Dear Teacher
I will never forget you and how special you are
In the way you value us as students
But also as people just like you
Who need to be encouraged and appreciated
Not just lectured to.
I gained so much from sitting in your classroom
And listening to you each day
But it was the person you are inside
That taught me more than words can say.
Thank you for all you do to help us mature and grow
So that someday our dreams can come true.
Thena

My Favorite Teacher

My Favorite Teacher

As I graduate this year I will take with me
Many wonderful memories of people held dear
And that you are my favorite teacher
I’m proclaiming loud and clear.
You always understood me and what helped me grow
when I needed a bit more information
You just always seemed to know!
I hope that I can show this same amount of understanding
As I go out into the world and I hope to be
The same kind of teacher as the teacher who taught me.

Thena

Graduation Verses

Fellow Graduates

Look at us! We are no longer
The weaker or the stronger,
The less brilliant or the smarter.
We are not the ones who know the answers
Or wish we could hide at our desks
But we are the ones who made it!
We are the ones who did our best
We survived high school's trials
And passed its test!
We are graduates! We are free!
(At least until college in the fall
Want to go to the mall)
Thena

Congratulations Grad!

You did it! Just look at you!
You did what you knew
That you had to do!
You are brilliant!
You are smart!
You made passing into an art!
You survived high school
And now you are free-
Aren't you glad that
You listened to me?
Mom

Graduation

To Our Daughter

We were there with you in preschool
When you were so proud
To repeat the ABC's back to us out loud.
We applauded your sand box skills
And watched you through grade school,
As you learned how to survive and
How to remember each rule.
Junior high was both wonderful,
As well as traumatic,
As we went through growth,
And experiences quite dramatic.
Now you have conquered High School,
And you are here at our side.
Just to look at you
Feels our hearts with pride.
You are no longer a child
But soon will be an adult.
At the moment you are still willing to be
Comforted and encouraged,
And wrapped in our arms,
Before we send you on your way
To participate in Your Graduation Day.
Thena

Family

Family


God created the family
And entrusts it to us
For us to create and appreciate
And to lift each other up.
A family member is the one
Who lifts you up when you are down
And feel the sun will never shine
Nor will the rain clouds ever go away
Family love is true love
That is there to stay.
And is a gift to be treasured and protected
Every single day.
Thena

Going Through Stressful Times

Going Through Stressful Times

In times of extreme trial or stress
There is a feeling of helplessness
When troubles are accentuated
And though we try not to cry
We may be easily agitated
Though we may try to concentrate
On only the most positive of thoughts
It is not easy to be rid of the things
That have brought us down
And all too soon where once was a smile
Can only be seen a frown.
No one is keen on being sad
And we each seek to find joy and bliss
But into each life there will be rain
And moments such as this.
Our goal should be to find our way
As we trust God to see us through it
He knows the strength He’s given us
And knows that we can do it!
Thena

When Unexpected Heartache Comes

Today an out of nowhere heartache came
And took me by surprise
Made a sadness in my soul
And brought tears to my eyes.
It’s true that those whom we love most
And are our most cherished family
Can be the reason for our sudden pain
As we replay their memories.
We hurt because they left us too soon
And our hearts feel as if they’re breaking.
How can we keep on going in this pain
With the toll this grief is taking?
I felt God speak to me, not in words that I could hear
But in a moment of such comfort in my spirit
That I knew that He was near.
I thought of my Mom in Heaven
And how happy she must be
Would I really wish her to come back
When her spirit has been set free?
How could I wish someone who has seen the Lord
To come back to comfort me?
I dried my eyes and looked toward Heaven
As if my Mom could see
And thanked God the Father
For the Mom He had given me.
I thanked Him for the memories
Of wonderful times we had together
And for the comfort in knowing
That when we meet again
It will be forever.
Thena

Our Flowers

We looked at flowers for our home
At various shops today
And for our household
Plastic seems the only way.
No one remembers to water them
Or give them plant food to eat
And plastic or silk flowers
Always look bright and neat..
We are free from pruning and watering
And horticulture as a whole
We took change of the whole blooming mess
And have our flowers under control!
Thena

A Little Boy's Prayer

Little Boys Prayer

I turned out the light
And walked out the door
But something, a gentle whisper,
certainly nothing more
Kept me from moving farther away
And it was then I heard my little one pray...

Kneeling there
At the side of his bed
With tiny hands folded
And bowing his head
These were the words my little one said:

"God bless my Daddy
And keep him safe each day
And tell him please
We miss him so
Since he had to go away.

God bless my Mommy too
And tell her not to cry
That you are keeping Daddy safe
And can see him from the sky.

Sometimes I hear My Mommy
Crying in her room at night
She thinks that I don't hear her
After she turns out the light.

It's not that I am nosey
Or doing something I ought not to do
You see Dear God I hear her
Because I am crying too..."

With eyes brimming full of tears
I quietly walked away that night
But suddenly felt within my heart
That I would be all right.

I could not say what God would do
But I knew we were surely in His care
And felt so gently reassured
By one tiny little boy's prayer...

Thena

When You Call 911

When you call 911

When we call 911 in times of distress
The person who responds in the ambulance
Doesn’t know who we might be.
But they come to attend us
And help in our emergency.

An ambulance shows up
With medically trained personnel
Who will do everything they can
To get us on the path to being well.

They do the things that we would expect
From the staff in an emergency room
Built to handle all of the major ills
But they do it on the go-
An ER on wheels!
Thena

The Paramedic

The Paramedic

We go to a doctor in his office
And see modern machinery everywhere.
We get to know our family physician
And at each visit, our history we share.

Consider the Paramedic
Who arrives with ambulance on the scene
Of a medical emergency
To help an unknown human being.

Without the history held in a doctor’s office
And without knowing the patient’s temperament
He or she goes where duty calls
And does the task for which they were sent.

We do not question the regard for doctors
What would we ever do without their care??
But lets also appreciate and applaud the paramedics
Supporting them with our appreciation and uplifting them in prayer.
Thena

Prayer for Those Who are Ill

Father I lift up my dear friend
Asking that an angel you would send
To cheer them while they are feeling blue
For their hope and faith is always in You.

They have been so ill yet have stayed true
To the love and confidence they hold in You
And always ask those who come their way
To take the time for them to pray.

They look to you and trust you to heal.
Their faith is strong and their love is real.
They honor You in all they do
And share each day their love for you.

They do not question your wisdom
And they say Your timing is never late
They praise You with their lives and lips
And each of Your gifts they appreciate.

I ask that you You would answer their prayer;
I pray that You would meet them there,
Reach out with Your healing touch
And bless this one who loves You so much.
In Jesus Name
Amen

I Can't Resist

I can turn down hot fudge sundaes
Any day of the week
Take eggnog away from me at Christmas
And you won't hear a peep.
Cancel out chocolate pudding
And I won't shed a tear
But there is something I can't resist
That comes out once a year...
Little yellow chicks and bunnies
All lined up in a row
Soft and swishy insides
Sprinkled with sugar, don't ya know?
I open up the package and let the air get to it
And then after time has passed I say
"I think that should do it!"
I take out those little dainty creatures
(I think you know of what I speak)
And indulge myself once a year
Eating every single purchased PEEP!

Where Love Once Lived

I saw a house where love once lived
The moment I saw it I knew.
And I could tell from your eyes
That you knew it too.
We stepped up on the front porch
Which was so long and wide
And since the front door swung open
We were able to go inside.
Although it had been many a year
Since inhabitants had lived therein
I knew that love and joy
The heart of this house had been.
The hallway seemed so familiar
As did the stairway to the floor above
As I continued my exploration
I felt so surrounded by love.
How strange that this house so empty
Was not tattered and torn
But seemed to be just lived in
And no more than normally worn.
It was then when I awakened
And knew it had been a dream
For the house I had been visiting
So comforting, cozy and warm
Was the house of my childhood,
The house where I was born.
Thena

Spring!

There’s something so exhilarating about spring
That makes a person want to sing!
The refreshing sights of leaf and flower
Seem to give our spirits power
Straight from Heaven up above us
Spring showers and flowers from God who loves us!
Spring ‘s special touch renews our engery;
Stimulating and invigorating it can be!!
I wonderf if God’s angels sing
Rejoicing with us on earth
Over the sheer joy of SPRING!

Thena

Lord Bless the Nurses

Lord Bless the Nurses

Lord bless the nurses who work so hard
And bless others’ lives each day
Not only by the work they do
But by the words they say.
Lord, bless the ones who show such compassion
Even when patients are grumpy or cuss
Or just generally make a fuss.
Bless the nurses who take it all in stride
And wear their uniforms with pride.
Bless the ones who see the pain in the eyes,
Of a weary soul or of patients
who have lost control.
Bless your angels of mercy with a healing touch
For those who need it so much .
Bless those you have called to this special task
With everything they need to succeed
And continue to be the blessings
Which You have ordained them to be.
Amen

Prayer

Prayer
Sometimes we get caught up
In feeling eloquence is needed to pray
That our fluency in our expression
Might prove our aptness for a worthy prayer
Thinking somehow that God listens
To see if we have that flair.
And that otherwise God might not hear
The simple prayers we need to pray
If there isn’t an elegant flow of persuasiveness
In the words we choose to say.
But sometimes I’ve had an urgent matter
That I needed to speak to God about
And in my time of such distress
“Help” is the only word that would come out.
Thena

Prayer for Japan

Dear God in Heaven up above
God of Mercy, God of Love
We lift up our neighbor and our friend
And ask that your angels you would send
To help this country whose needs you know
To go where humans cannot go
To rescue those who are trying to do
Things only done by a chosen few.
They risk their lives and know it's so
To go where most humans dare not go.
What heroes they have bred in that city
Who ask not for our country's pity.
But that if we can help in any way
We would send that help today.
Remind all your children. Lord to pray.

Thena

Japan Our Hearts Are With You

We keep seeing those heartbreaking photos
That fill the news each day
And we long to reach out and comfort you
But we can’t find the words to say.

We believers lift our prayers to Heaven
And ask God to bless and heal
And that to each hurting family
His love He would reveal.

We cannot say “We know how you feel”
For most have not known such pain as this
Which has caused so much of what you know
To have ceased in moments to exist.

Please forgive us if our attempts seem clumsy
And if we stumble over words of sympathy to you
For this is so beyond what we can comprehend
And we’re at a loss at just what to do.

But allow us to share our love and compassion
In whatever ways we are able to do
Because from the very depths of our hearts
We hurt for you.

We love your dear friends
And each day
For your healing and recovery
We pray.

Thena Smith

Old Forgotten Buildings

Old Forgotten Buildings
Setting back from the road
Inhabited by snakes and spiders
And perhaps a rat or toad.
Buildings left there to accumulate
The ravages of time and wind
Never dreaming in their prime
Of how their time would end.
The farmers who built them
Did so with love and pride
They could hardly wait to finish
So they could walk inside.
Perhaps they had a barn raising
Or celebrated with a drink or two
Of whatever was known
As the local brew.
Perhaps the preacher came
And blessed the new barn and house
Now the unblessed resident
Is a little brown field mouse.
Someone somewhere is remembering
That house when it was in its prime
And whispers into their pillow
How it was such a lovely time!
Thena

For Our Friends in Japan

For Our Friends in Japan

Dear Friends,
How we wish we could reach out
And hug you close to us today
And let you know there is real love
Behind the words we say.

We see your photos on TV
And our hearts are breaking too
For our world is so very small
And we are friends and family to you.

The losses that you have suffered
Cause our eyes to fill with tears
And we know that the return to normal
May take a lot of years.

But know that we won't forget
And will help in every way we know to do
Your land's healing, restoring and renewing
And each day we pray for you.
Thena

To An Old Empty House Standing Alone

Was this a place once filled with love?
Or did hardship take its toll too soon
Did children run and laugh and play
Or did they toil from the break of day?
Was there warmth in the kitchen
While chicken roasted and cookies baked
And where there lots of holidays to celebrate?
Did they move on to something bigger and better
And gratefully leave this behind
Not caring or attached enough
to worry about its decline?
When I see a place such as this I wonder.
I wonder what would be the story it could tell
Whoever once belonged to this place
I wish them and all their descendants well.

Thena

If you have nothing else
And fortune has been taken away
You still have a treasure
You have today.

How you use it
Is up to you
And your future
Depends on what you do.

Use this treasure wisely
And others try to bless
For as you bless other people
You will fill joy and happiness.

Fame and fortune are fleeting
But obedience to God is blessed
When we put our our lives in His hands
He guides us to what is our live's best.

You Have Today

If you have nothing else
Even when fortune has been taken away
You still have a treasure
You have today!

Kids Make Great Friends

Kids Make Great Friends

Two strangers met while flying a kite
On a nice windy day in May.
Both of them were holding tight
And really had not much to say.

But amid the laughter that accompanied
The tangling up of their strings
They got acquainted and became fast friends
As two wonderful human beings.

They shared a picnic there on the grass
With peanut butter and stuffed eggs
And both of them had a bit of juice
And for cookies neither had to beg.

For several days they continued to meet
Sometimes along with other family and friends
But both of them seemed to find the other
As they went off chasing the wind.

Life long friends they remained
As long as life survived
For one of the friends was 83
And the other friend was five.
Thena

Happy Birthday Sweet Granddaughter

Today you are one
And a special part of your life
Has just begun.
Each day you will learn
So many new things to do
That will make your days
even more special for you.
And I will be here for you
To share those new things with me
Enjoying being with you, dear one
At every opportunity!
Thena

Grandchild Birthday

Grandchild

This little birthday card
Is especially for you
To wish you a wonderful day
And happiness the whole year through!
We will watch you as the year goes by
And enjoy the special joy of you
With lavish hugs and kisses
Because that's what grandparents do!
Thena

Happy Birthday Sweet Princess

Sweet Princess, you are one today
And royal subjects will agree
That at the royal birthday home
Is the most fun place to be.
For one whole year little princess
You have ruled our home and heart
And so we celebrate this date
As one that's set apart.
It's set apart for fun and games
And your birthday to celebrate
The celebration will continue
Even when this day is through
Because we celebrate each day
The joy that is you!
Happy Birthday!
Thena

Don't Forget Me

Don't forget me when you're away
Or I will be very sad
For to know that you think of me
Makes my heart fill glad.

Don't forget to write to me
And send me cards, please do
For every note I get
Is special if its from you.

Don't forget to call me
And chat with me online
For each time I get to chat with you
Makes me so happy that you're mine!

Thena

When Mom Sang to Me

When Mom sang to me as I was in my crib,
I didn't know the words she spoke,
But I looked forward to her lullabyes
And could feel her love surround me.
I didn't know what songs she sang
But I could feel her arms around me.
Through the years as I grew up
And ran to her with hurts and fears,
That same love was there for me
And she rocked me in her arms
And dried my tears.
Hurts and illnesses came and went
As I continued to mature
No matter what trial came my way
Of that same love I could be sure.
When time came that she was ill
And soon to part from me,
I put my arms around her
Holding her so tenderly,
My spirit singing those sweet lullabyes
That she sang so many times to me.
Thena

The Vet

The Vet

Something is wrong with my pup
I set her kibble down
And she didn't even look up!
She's been off her food this week
And only seems to eat
Things that we give her,
now and then,
As a special treat.
He listened as I listed
The things I cooked for her
And gave us a little smile
As he gently rubbed her fur.
"If you want her diet to be doggie food;
then I fear your plans you've foiled.
I see nothing wrong with your little dog
Except that she is spoiled!"
Thena

Bring Back Some Scissors

Bring Back Some Scissors for Me

Bring back some scissors
My wife yelled out to me
I was headed for the Walmart
As she could plainly see.

Without knowing what I was agreeing to
I shouted back that yes I would
And quickly made my get away
While the "gettin' away" was good.

It took me about five minutes
To get the tools I needed
I walked over the appropriate aisle
And at my quest I had succeeded.

I looked 'round for the scissors
And saw some tiny little things
They were in little case
That was all covered with bling.

She hadn't mention tweezers
Nor the pointy little sticks inside that case
So I hurried to another aisle
So that task I could erase.

I picked a pair of sewing shears
And looked at them in glee
These big ole metal things
Sure looked like scissors to me.

But something stopped me
And the clerk saw my dismay
I need to buy some scissors
Was all that I could say.

What kind of scissors do you need
She inquired sweetly of me.
And I tried my best to remember
What my wife had said to me.

The helpful clerk tried once more
And listed scissors by the score.
I clearly had no faint idea
How many types were in that store!

Sewing sheers, Fiskars, embroidery
Hair cutting, nail trimming-my brain was swimming.
Kitchen scissors, Garage sheers, or dog grooming
Oh my my fate before me was looming.

Then I blurted out "She's a scrapper I know"
"She fights?" asked the clerk
But another clerk said "Let's go."
And took me to the Scrapbooking aisle
Where she had scissors to show.

I almost kissed her hand in relief
For that all was well was my belief
Until the clerk began:

Fiskars?
Martha Stewart
Tim Holtz
Tonic
EK Success
Making Memories
KAI

Then I began to cry...

Visiting Grandpa

Visiting Grandpa

Grandpa has a cute little dog
Blackie is his name
Grandpa says whether boy or girl
The name could be the same.
Blackie loves my grandpa
And I think he loves me too
'Cause Grandpa's little dog
Does whatever he tells it to do.
Grandpa lets me feed him
And teach him tricks as well
And sometimes we feed him Grandma's food
But I promised not to tell.
I think Grandma knows where the chicken goes
But doesn't really mind at all
Because I think she secretly loves that dog
For he gets so happy when he hears her call!

Thena

Granpee's Dogs

My grandma's dog is black
With fur so shiny and smooth
That it feels like the silk
On grandma's pretty glove.

Grandpa has a dog with spots
On a coat of white
He says he is a hunting dog
And boy he got that right!

He hunted grandma's chickens
And chased them 'round the yard
And when gramps finally caught him
They both were breathing hard.

Grandma said her dog was nice
Perfect as a loving pet
While Grandpa's little doggie
Isn't out of the doghouse yet!

Thena

Master (Doggie)

My Master

I love my master and he loves me
We visit at every opportunity
Even though I know that he is ill
......And has to be so quiet and still.
I will be there for him until the day
That angels come to take him away.
I know it will be sad to see
But he would be there for me.
Humans may think we do not grieve
To see those who love us as they leave
But we love our owners so very much
And wait for that sweet and tender touch
Of the oldest person to the babe in arms
And try to protect them from life's harms.
We cannot show it the way you do
But know our hearts break when we lose you.
Thena

When You Hit 60

When you hit 60
Don't fret or worry
Even though 59
Was gone in a hurry!
Just smile and enjoy it
As you go about your day
If you aren't retired yet
It's not far away
It's a great perk of getting older
What more can I say!
Celebrate 60 and celebrate in style
'Cause 60 only lasts for a short while...
Thena

In Those Times

In Those Times

In those times of stress or pain
When you long to smile again
But feel so sad, forlorn and blue
That you don't know what to do,
Just look toward Heaven
And say a prayer
Trusting God to meet you there.

When you've lost someone so dear
That you wonder if God can hear you
And if His angels are stationed near you,
Just trust that He alone knows best
And loves the tiniest birdie in the nest.
He knows the number of hairs on each head
And where the foxes make their bed.

God never promised that we would not have trials
Or heartaches while here below
But has promised to be with us
Whereever we must go.
He knows when we need His comfort
And will always meet us there
All we need to do is seek Him
And He 's as close as a whispered prayer.

Thena

God Hasn't Forgotten You

Don't be discouraged if things aren't going your way
But look forward to the future
And the start of a brand new day
For even when times are tough
God is with you and will see you through
...And never doubt that He loves you
And hasn't forgotten you!

Thena

For Those Whose Hearts are Hurting

God bless those who have lost someone
And whose hearts are aching today.
Please wrap Your arms around them
And take that pain away.
Please send your earthly angels
(The ones that we call friend)
To minister to them with Your love
And let them find Your joy again.

Thena

Family

My little brother has red hair
And freckles on his nose.
While little sister's hair is brown
And she has none of those.

My other brother's hair is curly
And his skin is dark as can be
In fact in this family of mine
I'm the only one that looks like me!

My mom and dad chose each of us
And brought us together one by one
They love us in a special way
That makes our lives such fun.

We are a family full of love
As different as we can be
But that a loving family we are
Is very plain to see.

Thena

Fifty is Nifty

Fifty is nifty
Don't forget it.
Enjoy each day
Never forget it.
Forties were great
But fifty is greater
Be a life enjoyer
And a life celebrater!
Thena

Do Something

If you feel as if there's something missing
In the way you live each day
But you don't know what it is
Just take the time to pray.
And after you ask the Lord above
Just what He needs you to do
Take the time to listen
To what He would say to you.
Sometimes it is so simple
The thing that is needed most of all
But could help a struggling friend
And keep them from a fall.

Life is Like a Train

Life is Like a Train


Life is rather like a train
Sometimes the ride is nice and smooth
And we are able to keep on track
While other times we get derailed
When life gives us a whack!

Sometimes we hit the station
And all the world is well
But sometimes our journey is off schedule
And nothing seems to jell.

We stop at each station long enough
To do what must be done
And then continue on our journey
Not sure how long our train will run.

Sometimes our train seems out of date
And hopelessly obsolete
And we think a newer model
Would make life more complete.

But God has assigned us to the train
That is perfect for his plan
And our train of life was created just for us
Before our life began!

If we let Him be the conductor
Of this train of life we ride
He will keep our train on track
And keep us safe and secure inside.

Thena

The Mark on My Face

I noticed it when I was little
The red shape upon my brow
I knew God gave it to me
But I didn't know just how.
I heard that other people had them
And that they did just fine
That some were larger, some were smaller
And others were just like mine.
Mom and Dad didn't have one
And no one else looked just like me
Unless they were hidden on them
Somewhere I couldn't see.
But I never really minded
Because if God put it there
It was my own special touch from Him
And not something I must bear.

Thena

My Birthmark

Who knows what causes
A birthmark on a face
It must be something special
For its form I can't erase.
Mom said God gave it to meSo I would stand out among the rest
And that I should consider it as
A loving sign that I was blessed.
So each morning when I see it
I don't fret or sigh or moan
I just take it as a loving symbol
That I am never really alone.
For God is always with me
And knows my every need
Encourages me and loves me
And wants me to succeed.

Thena

Boomer Computer Lingo

When I thought of windows
As I was growing up
They were things you had to clean
To watch the sun come up.
Computer was unheard of until “A Space Odyssey”
And was something in the distant future
Which I thought I’d never see.
The Net was something one wore on their hair
And apple was a fruit much like a pear.
Apples were red and delicious
And a byte was what you took out of one
While a gig was where one performed with their band
And provided teens with a lot of fun.
Ram was related to the livestock of the farmer next door
And hard drive was mainly in the wintertime
Getting through the snow to the country store.
I went to the chiropractor if I had trouble with a disc
And a crash usually involved someone who took an awful risk.
Putting a log on the fire in our old wood stove would bring
Warmth to fill out the application for college attendance in the spring.
Program meant you could watch TV after your piano keyboard you knew
And a spider’s web was sometimes seen glistening in the morning dew
A mouse was unwelcome for one did not want their home to be a mouse pad
Which may have made little field mice awfully sad.

If memory failed, it usually meant the person was getting on in years
And a cursor was someone who drove us all to tears!
Backup was what cars did and people backed up too
Especially if you were short on time and had lots of chores to do.
We zipped and unzipped our jackets and our jeans as well
And those who invested in CD’s were thought to be doing well.

Today computers are amazing and used in every home and school
And fortunately crashing them doesn’t injure anyone
…as a rule…
Thena Smith

Be still" He said "and hear my voice
For I am here for you."
But ears not tuned in, I rushed ahead
As I am prone to do.

..."Wait" He said "this is not the time
And my timing is always right."
But impatient as I sometimes am
I struggled with all my might.

But God who is so patient and so kind
So loving and so true
Understood my faults and fears
And my every need He knew.

The Lessons We Could Learn

Legs in little ole lady shoes
May once have danced at the Birth of the Blues
Or climbed a mountain top to plant a flag or two
Or be involved somewhere in the history of you.

...The little ole chunky man
With hair that is gray and getting thinner
May have once been a chef
That prepared your favorite dinner.

The oldster with the body that is now bent
May be a veteran of a war
Who served his countries with honors
Wherever he was sent.

The ones whose eyes are now dim
Were once bright and clear
And the ears now turning toward deafness
Once hear things loud and clear.

We all have things to learn from each other
If we take the time to listen with our heart
And realize that each story and each life is precious-
Aye, that is the important part!
Thena

Night Before an Electronic Christmas

T’was the night before Christmas,
when all through the house
One digital scrapbooker was diligently working her mouse;
She downloaded from Action Fx cool things which she knew
Would make far easier projects yet to do!
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that Adobe CS5 she soon would find there;
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of Game Boys danced in their heads;
And Mamma in her ‘kerchief and I in my cap,
Had just settled down with our laptops and Kindles before a long winter’s nap;
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from reading Facebook to see what was the matter.
Away to the security monitor I flew like a flash,
Pushed down on the controls which brought evidence fast.
The moon on the frozen tree branches and knee deep snow,
Made me so thankful I had no place to go!,
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a friend dressed in red driving his big green John Deer!,
With this little old driver, so lively and quick,
I knew in a moment it must be our friend Rick.
More rapid than beagles his wheels they came,
And he whistled, and shouted, and called out our names;
“Now, Ronald! now, Thena! now, Taffy and Cozy!
Hey, Tina Yo Missy! And you too Miss Rosy!
He rain to the porch! Then climbed to the top of the wall!
He struggled with a bag holding package for one and for all!
Then up to the house-top with a special rocket he flew,
With the bag full of Toys, and our friend Rickolas too.
With the bundle of Toys he had flung on his back,
He looked kind of funny and that made me laugh.
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,
And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk,
With iPods and smart phones filling his hands
He quickly deposited them meeting each kid’s request
And even had a Wii for our Christmas guest!
PlayStations, digital cameras TVs with flat screens,
Laptops and desktops And sewing machines
All peeked from his bag as he opened it up
Ere he took out for me, a sweet little pup.
Quickly back to the window he went
And before I who watched, knew it
He opened the sliding partition
And quickly moved right through it.
I heard him exclaim as he drove out of sight
No more chimneys for me
They are all far too tight!

Thena

The Rain that Fell Yesterday

The rain that fell yesterday
Brings the roses of tomorrow
Just as the pain we sometimes feel
Eases, as does our sorrow.

While love and laughter nourish us,
Our strength comes from hard times too.
So let us never be fearful or fret
For God will see us through.

No one gets through this life
Without some sad times and some sorrow
But the way we react to difficulties today
Will make us stronger for tomorrow.

No one really loves the pain
And disappointment has no fans.
Let us keep our trust in our Father
For our lives are in His hands.

Thena

The New Year Progresses

How Quickly the new year passes
Along with the resolutions made
We sometimes forget how we resolved
That lemons be turned to lemonade.

The good intentions we had on the first
Sometimes get lost before the weeks end
And we fail to respond as we wished we had
To the needs of family or friend.

But with each rising sun
And sweet morning dew
Great opportunities come
With a fresh new chance for you.

Thena

This is the Day

This is the day you were waiting for
To start over again
To begin to be more than you are today
And remake your life in a special way.
This is the day that serves as a reminder...
...That you can reinvent yourself
To be a bit nicer and a bit kinder.
This is the chance to do things
That you've always meant to do
The chance to show the world
A wonderful more loving you!
This is the chance to be more creative
And not take your talent for granted
Or fret that it is not as good as some other's
The chance to be better fathers or mothers.
This is the day you waited for as a fresh new year start
And the place to begin as with all great changes
Is right there in your heart.

Thena

Facing the New Year Without You

Facing the New Year Without You

Mom, as the new year begins
Without you here to guide us
Our hearts are heavy
For it's strange without you beside us.

Your family was not nearly ready
To face the new year without you
For all of us treasured you
And loved everything about you.

But because of your strength and love
And all of the things you taught us too
We will carry on and be strong
In honor of our love for you.

The new year is here and we will face it
Along with the opportunity to be here for each other
Sharing our love with our family here below
And loving memories of our dear mother.

Thena Smith