There’s nothing like the peace of the countryside, the quiet and the lack of distraction. It helps you to focus your mind.” — Jenny Nimmo countryside escape tranquility wrapped in green acres of treasures * * * Built at the turn of the 20th century as a summer retreat of the Augustus and Bessie Van … More Tranquility
“The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra.” — Jimmy Johnson when stars shine their light standout an understatement extraordinary Well over six feet tall, the Sandhill Crane on the Blithewold estate lawn is a standout presence in its own right, not to be outdone by a simply extraordinary peacock with its iridescent … More Extraordinary
“There is little in life so reassuring as a genuine welcome.” — Robin Hobb welcome with a smile joy of meeting and greeting ignite happiness * * * The Greeter –- One of six big, beautiful, bamboo birds that greet visitors to the Bristol, RI, summer estate of Augustus and Marjorie Van Wickle, this dapper … More Greeter
“Togetherness is forged in the gentle arms a family cuddle.” — Sophia Loren snuggle together warmth and closeness soothe the soul comfort of cuddles * * * Comfort in numbers, Muscovy ducklings all tucked in with Mama • Photo by Jan Logozzo • “Snuggles” haiku by Mary O’Connor • Happy Mother’s Day! © 2025
“Do not get caught in your anger, worries, or fears. Come back to the present moment, and touch life deeply.” – Thich Nhat Hanh limited thinking the trap of tunnel vision loss of perspective * * * Lobster traps piled high, ready to catch unsuspecting prey • Photo by Jan Logozzo • “Trapped” haiku by … More Trapped
“The living self has one purpose only: to come into its own fullness of being, as a tree comes into full blossom, or a bird into spring beauty….” — D.H. Lawrence beauty overwhelms deletes all hints of dullness shuts misery down * * * Magnolia blossoms: iconic symbols of romance, love and joy • Photo … More Fullness
“No man is an island, no man lives alone.” — John Donne not alone in world collective dependency part of larger whole * * * Great White Egret poses in solo meditation • Photo by Jan Logozzo • “Alone” haiku by Mary O’Connor © 2025
“Patience is power. Patience is not an absence of action, rather it is ‘timing’— it waits on the right time to act, for the right principles and in the right way.” — Fulton J. Sheen time and patience win accomplish what brawn cannot principled power * * * Great Blue Heron portrays the commanding beauty … More Patience
“I want to be proud of this country, but when aspects of our policy don’t align with my ethics, I want to protest them and try to change them.” — Shepard Fairey with sidewalks all full voices speak up for fairness drown out injustice * * * Wood Storks communicate by snapping their bills together … More Speak Up
“Faith is stepping out on nothing and landing on something” — Cornel West dance on tips of toes lightness a state of true grace strength of loveliness * * * Wings down for smooth landing • Photo by Jan Logozzo • “Touchdown” haiku by Mary O’Connor © 2025
Life Is Full of Sweet Spots 