Winter on The Bay and Christmas on it’s way!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“ Oh “… Hello there. Just thought I would stop by. It has been awhile since I posted anything on my blog. It has almost been a whole year. Lots has happened in my life since my last post. Some good , and some challenges along the way. A few health issues of my own , and my mom as well. I have learned to take  one day at a time, and God gives me new Grace for each day.

Life goes on and is to be embraced, and celebrated, and not taken for granted. I am thankful for the life God has given me, and I strive to walk with Him day by day.

I have a new Granddaughter and her name is Marina. Now Mikey has a baby sister. She was named after my mom. That makes me smile. I am truly Blessed in so many ways. Yep! 7 Grandchildren. Six girls and one boy. Everyone loves Mikey. He doesn’t seem to mind and I don’t think he knows the difference at this point in his life. He gets lots of attention and he doesn’t mind that a bit. :)

Well I sure hope to find you all well. As I write this little message I think of so many of you I have met over the yrs. and often think of you even though I haven’t been blogging as of late.

I want to wish all who read this, a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year, filled with Love and Joy, Laughter, and Good Health, and the Peace that passes all understanding. God Bless each and everyone of you.

I will try and visit some of your blogs in the next little while.

As I close I would like to leave you with this verse of scripture which many of you are familiar with but it speaks of the reason for the Christmas Season.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour  which is Christ the Lord.  St. Luke 2:11

But to all who believed Him and accepted Him, He gave the right to become children of God.  John 1:12

So yes! We have a lot to be Thankful for, and to celebrate.

God Bless each and every one of you, and may each one of us be a blessing to the Lord Jesus Christ as we celebrate His Birthday once again.

Sincerely Dianne :)

Dianne © dsphotocats

The Road Ahead_ Farewell For Now

 

 

 

One should never take the easy road, but rather the right road, no matter how long the travel.

 

 

I have decided to take a break from blogging. I have wrestled with this for some time now. Not sure when I will be back, or if I will be back. I am not sure what’s around that corner up ahead. Time will tell. Life is busy, life is good, but I can’t burn the candle of both ends any longer. This is a good thing I think. We all need change in order to grow.

My life has be enriched, and blessed by so many of you here in Bloggersville. Thank you for sharing your lives, and thank you for your friendship. I will try and visit from time to time, and will leave my blog open for now. I don’t believe in burning bridges, and I may be back in time.

Wishing you all the very Best.

God Bless You and take care.

Love and Hugs

Dianne :)

 

 

 

 

 

Only A Tiny Rosebud

It is only a tiny rosebud,
A flower of God’s design;
But I cannot unfold the petals
With these clumsy hands of mine.
The secret of unfolding flowers
Is not known to such as I.
GOD opens this flower so sweetly,
When in my hands they fade and die.
If I cannot unfold a rosebud,
This flower of God’s design,
Then how can I think I have wisdom
To unfold this life of mine?
So I’ll trust in Him for His leading
Each moment of every day.
I will look to him for His guidance
Each step of the pilgrim way.
The pathway that lies before me,
Only my Heavenly Father knows.
I’ll trust Him to unfold the moments,
Just as He unfolds the rose.
~ © Bryan T. Burgess ~

 

 

TIME

I still find each day too short for all the thoughts I want to think, all the walks I want to take, all the books I want to read, and all the friends I want to see. The longer I live the more my mind dwells upon the beauty and the wonder of the world.

- John Burroughs

Christmas

 

 

"Christmas can't be bought from a store . . . Maybe Christmas means a little bit more." Dr.Seuss

 

"Peace on earth will come to stay, when we live Christmas every day." Helen Steiner Rice

 

 

 

Christmas is a gift of Love

that can't be bought or sold -

It's ours just for the asking,

and it's worth far more than gold ...

And this priceless gift of Christmas

is within the reach of all -

The rich, the poor, the young, the old,

the greatest and the small ...

So take God's Christmas gift of Love -

reach out and you receive -

And the only payment that God asks

is just that you believe.

Written by Helen Steiner Rice

 

 

 

 

From my home to yours, I would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas, and a Blessed New Year, filled with Good Health, Love, Joy, Peace In your hearts, in your homes, and where ever you might be.

Love and Care

Dianne :)

 

"May peace be more than a season, it is my hope that it may be a way of life" Author Unknown

 

And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Colossians 3:15

 

Where’s The Color,Where’s The Light?

 

 

Watching The Rain Coming Across Lake Ontario

 

 

 

 

There was Sun and Clouds behind me,

And the Storm in front of me.

Soon to be over my head.

The sun shining on the clouds changed their color.

It was like a natural filter.

And then it was time to head for the van just in time,

before the downpour of rain.

 

 

 

 

 

This picture was taken about an hour earlier

And I was hoping for a break in the clouds.

This is what I saw and this picture is out of my camera.

Dull and so needing some light to brighten the colors and my view.

 

 

 

 

This photo was taken earlier in the day as we were driving along looking for Autumn colors in Prince Edward County. So Beautiful. It was a day when one minute the sun was out and the next several minutes was dark and dreary. It was like driving in and out of the clouds. No consistency, but inconsistency itself.

 

 

 

 

I am not sure where I am going with this,

But going back to the storm ahead of me, then minutes away from me.

I look behind me and this is what I saw.

As the Dark clouds moved in there was still a window of light shining through the darkness, now threatening  to surround me.

 

 

 

 

And over to my right I looked up and saw this image above the clouds. Again these cloud pictures are not altered in any way other than resized.

Funny, but I didn’t take a close look at these pictures until tonight. These pictures were taken October 20th/2012.

 

 

 

 

What I see you may not see. But as I look at these pictures I feel the Love, and Presence of God.

Though storms may come, I know that they will also pass. My God is watching over me, as I walk with Him, He is watching over me, day by day.

I am reminded that as a Believer, and a Child of God, I am to walk by Faith, Not by sight.

And I know that Brighter Days lay ahead, and Jesus is my Light that shines in the darkness. All I have to do is Hope and Trust in Him, in every circumstance of life. Living the Christian life is not always an easy road to travel, but it is worth more than silver and gold.

Jesus said, that in this life we would have trouble but fear not for He has overcome the world. So take heart brothers and sisters. We have a Glorious Hope in Jesus. Jesus said, He would come back to set all things right. I believe Him. Jesus is Coming Again.

Are you ready?

As we get ready to celebrate Christmas, remember there is more to the story.

I could go on but it is time to call it a night.

This post is made up of my thoughts and images.

I have shared from my heart.

God Bless and be with all those who pass through and take the time to read this.

Sincerely Dianne :)

All script and Photographs by Dianne © dsphotocats

Accept for the picture with me in it which was taken by my husband, 4% Vision.

In the month of Oct. we had continued rain and grey skies for all but 5 days of sun. It was a long month. I didn’t get out much to capture the Brilliant Colors of Autumn this year accept for a handful of pictures, and for that I am grateful.

My thoughts and prayers are with those who have been affected by Hurricane Sandy. May the storm clouds disappear, and you all experience Brighter days ahead.

Nature’s Music

 

 

 

Nature Is Music To My Ears

 

Nature is music to my ears. As I hear the birds singing their songs. Red Winged Black Birds in the marsh. Loons on the lake. A Blue Heron on the river bank. Geese flying over head. The flutter of a Humming Bird’s wings, among other things.

The cry of a new born baby. The laughter of children, and adults alike.

The sound of the wind blowing through the trees.

The sound of crickets on a hot summers night. Frogs in the pond.

Listening to the rain falling softly, and sometimes falling hard to whatever  surface it may hit.

I hear the thunder rolling across the sky, and the sounds of lightning as it strikes.

As I walk by a trickling brook, or a flowing river. The stillness of a lake, and waves hitting the shore. The roar of rushing waterfalls, and the ocean waves hitting the shore and the rocks with force.

These are a few of my favorite sounds of nature, and I have many more. I am eager to listen. I am in “Awe” of nature, and those peaceful moments it brings.  It is music to my ears.

And my heart sings as it beats to the music like an inner drum. Yes, I can hear my heart beat and my own breathing in and out. I am alive and enjoying my Creator God and all He has made.

I love all the senses that God created me with as I hear His still small voice telling me to be still and know that He is God! God is real, and loves me, and you. He is near and to be found at the mentioning of His name, with a sincere heart.

Having even one of the senses should be enough to know there is an “Almighty God and Creator” of all things. 

I can hear, see, taste, smell, and feel. I am Blessed and have so much to be thankful for.  God provides everything I need, and all He asks is that I trust Him with my life, and for my Salvation through Jesus Christ, God’s only begotten Son.

He is my Lord and Savior. I am Blessed and have so much to be thankful for.

I will be honest and say, that sometimes I forget that. The cares and concerns of life can alter my focus. The picture gets cluttered, and out of focus. Then I need to ask the Lord of my Life to do His work in me, so the picture is clear, and composed according to His Will. I am His creation, and according to His Word, I am fearfully and wonderfully made. That is found in Psalm 139.

Lord please forgive me for the times in my life when I take things for granted. Help me not to complain when things don’t go my way. Instead to pray with a humble, and grateful heart. and always give thanks in every situation , knowing you will work all things for my good. Help me to walk in your ways, and to live for you. To die to my own selfish ways, knowing you will take care of me. You are the Source of everything Good in my life. Help me to be all you want me to be. I am yours dear Lord. Bought with your precious blood you shed for me on the cross at Calvary. Thank you  Father God for giving us your only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, who died for me, and has risen from the dead and is sitting at the right hand of God the Father, and is coming again according to your Word. Amen

Although Jesus Christ is offensive to this world system we live in … He is the only Way, The Truth and The Life. (John 14:6). The Greatest  Gift to all mankind. The Greatest Gift to me. Thank you Jesus. :)

Script and Photography by Dianne © dsphotocats

 

 

 

 

Young Chickadee In My Back Yard

 

 

Have a Blessed Sunday!

Sincerely Dianne :)

Walking With Nature By The Bay

 

 

Red Winged Black Bird Singing His Summer Song

High above me in this tree.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

One little Goldfinch sitting in a tree

Looking as pretty as can be.

As He  looks down

I wonder what do you see

besides me,

perched way up in that tree?

Written by Dianne dsphotocats

 

 

 

 

 

 Seems He is following me,  posed for another picture

I have wanted to capture one of these for a very long time. And today he flew into my path.

I prayed God would Bless me and He did.

I believe God can and does use His Creation to Bless those who’s heart is open to see and hear, not only creation, but the Creator Himself.

 

 

 

 

 Queen Anne’s Lace is one of my favorite Wildflowers

Dainty and oh so Pretty is she.

I like how she stands out in her surroundings.

 

 

 

 

What a pleasant surprise as this Beautiful Butterfly

Fluttered by me and Landed long enough

for me to take this photo.

If anyone knows the name of this Butterfly please let me know.

 

 

 

 

He leads me beside still waters

He restores my soul. 

Words from Psalm 23.

That is what came to mind as I looked into the pond and saw this Water Lilly, and her reflection in the still waters.

Maybe you look at this photo and see something totally different , and that is fine too.

I hope that by looking at these photos , and reading this blog, you will be Blessed .

Hope to find you all well and enjoying the seasons of life where ever you may dwell.  May you see the Beauty beyond whatever circumstances you may face in this life. 

May God reveal Himself to you as you seek Him, and Bless You beyond measure.

Sincerely Dianne :)

P.S If you click on each photo you will be able to see a bigger photo.

Dianne © dsphotocats

All Is Calm … Swans On The Bay

 

 

 

A Calm and Peaceful Day  Along The Shore Of The Bay

 

 

 

Mr. Cobb is on guard watching over his family. He is not showing off today. All is calm, and all is bright.

It is a Beautiful Day filled with warmth and light.

I love watching these swans and photographing them when I can, as you all know by now.

It is often very challenging to capture what I see due to the bright harsh sunlight as it shines off the water of the Bay.  But it is worth the effort. I forget about the world around me for a time, and all the cares of life. All is calm, and all is bright. It brings a peaceful moment filled with Joy.  I am in “Awe” of what I see as I witness the nature that surrounds me, and the Creator of it all.

I don’t get to travel very often and so I do appreciate the Beauty that surrounds me, even if it is common to some.

Ah! But I do get to travel  through the eyes of each one of you, and other wonderful bloggers, and photographers around the world. We all have something to share, and what is common to one, is new and exciting to another. At least that is how I see it. Thank you for all each one of you share. And now on to the next photo. I never know what I am going to write when I start my update. It truly is “Random Thoughts and Photographs”, and comes from my heart. Oh ya, I guess I better stop jip japping and get on with it. Ha!

 

 

 

 

A Very Touching Sight To See

As mother swan tends to her swanlings.

 

 

 

 

Mrs. Penn and her 9 Swanlings (Cygnets)

Just before coming on shore for a time of preening, and a time of rest.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Off they go on yet another adventure and to get a bite to eat. I think they were out to have some Bay Vegetable Soup. :)

 

That is it for now. These photos were taken on May 29th.  I may never get caught up but what’s a gal to do.

Just take it as it comes and share when I can.

  There is a time for everything and life goes on. I hope life is good to you, and full of wonder at the things you see around you.

And I pray for those around the world who due to their political environment and circumstances among other things, do not see the Beauty. There is Hope in Jesus. God help us all to love one another, and some how  make a difference in this world we live in.

To all my blogger friends and those who drop by, may you have a good day filled with Peace, Hope and Love.

Sincerely, with Love and Care

Dianne :)

His Eye Is On The Sparrow

 

 

 

 

 

 

Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father's will. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows." (Matt. 10:27-31).

"Sparrow" is the name given to several different species of birds in the Bible -- they ate grain and insects and gathered in noisy flocks. Sparrows would often build their untidy nests in the eaves of houses, but were not driven away when they built their nests in the Temple (Psa. 84:3). These insignificant little birds were such social creatures that a lone sparrow was the symbol of deep loneliness (Psa. 102:7).

In the days of our Lord sparrows were sold for a very low price -- two of them for a copper coin (Matt. 10:29). A copper coin, an asarion, was a very small Roman coin, was worth about 1/16 of a silver denarius, and was therefore worth less than a quarter in U.S. currency today. Those who were poor and could not afford to sacrifice a sheep or a goat might bring a sparrow to the Temple (cf. Lev. 14:1-7).

So insignificant were these little birds that if you bought four sparrows the seller would throw in one more for free (Luke 12:4-7). It was this extra sparrow of which Jesus said, "and not one of them is forgotten before God." His care for His creation is so great that even this extra sparrow is noted and observed by God!

The point our Lord was making is this: if God is concerned about the tiny sparrow and notes its fate, how much greater must His concern be for man, who is immeasurably greater in value than the sparrow!

God's Eye Is On Things We Deem Insignificant

Sometimes it seems that God is the only one who cares for sparrows. Cats and birds of prey like to hunt and eat them, and little boys have been known to torment them. Adults complain about how they multiply and consider them pests. Yet, Jesus said, "not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father's will" (Matt. 10:29). It is interesting that Jesus chose the most common of all birds to teach a profound truth: in God's eyes, no one is insignificant!

God not only provides food for "the birds of the air," but He also "clothes the grass of the field" (Matt. 6:25-34). The "lilies of the field" were the scarlet poppies -- they bloomed for only one day on the hillsides of Israel, and yet in their brief life they were clothed with a beauty which surpassed "Solomon in all his glory," and when they died they were "thrown into the oven."

In the days of our Lord ovens consisted of a clay box set on bricks over a fire. When it was desired to rapidly raise the temperature of it, some handfuls of dried grasses and wild flowers were thrown inside the oven and set alight. The flowers had but one day of life; and then they were set alight to help a woman to heat an oven when she was baking in a hurry; and yet God clothes them with a beauty which is beyond man's power to imitate. If God gives such beauty to a short-lived flower, how much more will he care for man?

Surely, the generosity, which is lavished upon a flower for one day, will not be forgetful of man, the crown of His creation.

 

God Does Not Always Prevent Evil From Happening To Us

Though God does provide care for the sparrows, the fact that "not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father's will" (Matt. 10:29) means that sometimes bad things can happen. Although He watches over the sparrows, this does not prevent them being hunted by predators. Although He watches over every one of us, this does not mean that our lives will be free from care.

God had placed a "hedge" around Job (Job 1:8-11), but allowed Satan to tempt Job (Job 1:12). In the midst of his trials he did not lose his trust in God (Job 1:21). In one of the most beautiful passages in the book of Job, we hear Job say of God, "Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him" (Job 13:15).

We can be assured that with every temptation there will also be a way of escape. "No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it" (1 Cor. 10:13). My brethren, there are no special cases! When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on!

God's Care Continues For Us

We may not esteem the tiny sparrow, but Jesus used it to illustrate our heavenly Father's watchful care: "you are of more value than many sparrows" (Matt. 10:31). If God is concerned about the tiny sparrow, how much greater must His concern be for man, who is immeasurably greater in value than the sparrow!

There is no place for worry in the life of a sparrow, and no attempt stockpile supplies for the future -- yet their lives go on. The point Jesus is making is not that the birds do not work; it has been said that no one works harder than a sparrow to make a living; the point He is making is that they do not worry. Sparrows do not strain to see into a future, which they cannot see, and do not seek to find security in the things they have accumulated for the future.

Worry is needless, useless and even injurious (Matt. 6:25-32). Worry, which wears out the mind also, wears out the body. Worry affects our judgment, lessons our powers of decision, and renders us progressively incapable of dealing with life. Worry is a manifestation of our lack of faith in God (Matt. 6:30). We need to learn to be content (Phil. 4:4-13).

In the midst of turbulent times Habakkuk said, "Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines; though the labor of the olive may fail, and the fields yield no food; though the flock be cut off from the fold, and there be no herd in the stalls -- Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation" (Hab. 3:17-18).

God's continued care for us should bring contentment in our lives. "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content." (1 Tim. 6:6-10).

Conclusion

In 1904, a songwriter, Mrs. Civilla Martin, went to visit a bedridden friend in Elmira, New York. Mrs. Martin asked the woman if she ever got discouraged because of her physical condition. Her friend quickly responded: "Mrs. Martin, how can I be discouraged when my heavenly Father watches over each little sparrow and I know He loves and cares for me?"

On her journey back home, Mrs. Martin completed the writing of her new text, which has since been a source of much encouragement to many of God's people:

Why should I feel discouraged, why should the shadows come, why should my heart be lonely and long for Heaven and home, when Jesus is my portion? My constant Friend is He: His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me...

"Let not your heart be troubled," His tender word I hear, and resting on His goodness, I lose my doubts and fears; though by the path He leadeth but one step I may see: His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me...

Whenever I am tempted, whenever clouds arise, when songs give place to sighing, when hope within me dies, I draw the closer to Him; from care He sets me free; His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me...

God's care for us is immeasurable -- He allowed His only begotten Son to die in our stead (John 3:16). When we consider the "riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering" this ought to soften our heart, "knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance" (Rom. 2:3-4).

God's care for us will sustain us throughout life, for "we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose" (Rom. 8:28).

God's care for us extends beyond the grave and into that home of the soul, for those who "do His commandments" have the right to the tree of life, and "may enter in through the gates into the city" (Rev. 22:14).       

His Eye Is On The Sparrow by David Padfield

 

 

 

 

 

I found this very encouraging and hope those of you who take the time to read it will be encourage also.

Hope all is well and you all have a great week ahead.

Love and Care

Dianne :)

 

How Can We Know The Way?

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jesus’s disciples felt confused when he talked about going away. “You know the way to the place where I am going,” He told them. Thomas voiced the question burning in all their minds: “Lord we don’t know where you’re going. So how can we know the way? Jesus’s answer was simple and direct: I am the way, the truth and the life. No one goes to the Father except through me.”

It may be popular to claim that many paths lead to God, but that contradicts what the Bible teaches. Jesus taught that access to God can only come through placing our faith in His sacrificial death and resurrection. The way is clear and open to everyone, blocked only by a person’s unwillingness to believe. There is no alternate route. People who denounce the gospel as narrow minded miss the wonder that God provided a way for us to come to Him at all.

Jesus is more than the path to salvation and eternal life: He shows us the way to live a life of true meaning and purpose. Nurturing our relationship with Him and following the directions in God’s Word are the only way to travel. We may be temped to let our life be guided by sources that seem more exciting, but we’ll only end up feeling confused.

Jesus answered him, “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one goes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6

 

 

I want to wish you all a Happy Easter as we celebrate the Life, the death and Resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ , The Son of Almighty God.

For God so loved the world that He gave His Only Begotten Son that who so ever believes in Him shall not perish but have Ever Lasting  Life. John 3:16.

 

Love and Care

Dianne :)

A Touch Of Nature

 

 

 

Chickadee In A Tree

 

 

 

 

A Black-Capped Chickadee

 

 

 

 

A White Breasted Nuthatch

 

 

 

 

Oh cage me not, lest I become a prisoner of man’s ego.

Deny me not my right to fly in God’s blue sky

And spy upon these mortals there below.

Then when I see a friend, I may desend to serenade.

And when my song is o’er,

away on freedom ‘s wing to soar.

-May Hickman

 

 

 

 

 

 

One touch of nature makes the whole world kin.

– Shakespear

 

 

 

 

  In Harmony with Nature

Up Close and Personal,

The Look of Trust ,

Eye to  Eye,

It touched my Soul.

Written by - Dianne © dsphotocats

 

 

 

 

In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks. – John Muir

 

 

 

I Was Looking For Owls

I was looking for Owls, and I found  Chickadees, 

or should I say , “they found me”.

I was looking for Owls, and I found a Nuthatch,

and again, it found me.

If you truly love Nature you will find Beauty wherever you go.

Look! Expecting to find,

Leave your tunnel vision behind.

You may not find what you are looking for,

but treasures you are sure to find,

and you will be touched by nature of some kind.

What a Joy to be in Harmony with the Beauty that surrounds you, whatever that might be.

I believe it is God’s  intended plan for all of humanity,

and  Nature, of His Own  Creativity.

Written by- Dianne © dsphotocats

 

 

It was funny, while driving home on the 401 hwy. I saw a big beautiful owl perched in a tree along side the 4 way hwy. I admired its beauty for a moment, and then shook my head and laughed. It didn’t bother me that I didn’t get a photo with my camera. I treasured the moment with a thankful heart and I had just come from having little Chickadees and a Nuthatch in the palm of my hand. There little talons felt wonderful as I experienced a touch of nature that I will never forget. Now how special is that!!!

Hope to find you all well. Take care and God Bless each and every one who passes by.

ox Dianne :)

Special note: Pictures of me were taken by my hubby. Steve is legally blind but has great insight, and not bad with the camera either. I think he is pretty amazing. I am  Blessed to have him in my life.  :)

 

Hug A Zebra Day

 

 

 

 

Hug A Zebra

 

Did you know

Today is hug a Zebra Day?

You say oh my gosh

I did not know!

So hug your Zebra with all your might.

If you don’t have a Zebra,

Then hug The One your with.

If you are all alone,

then hug the First Person or Zebra you see!

Or give Yourself a big old hug,

and say I love me.

You say oh my gosh

I could never do that.

What would people say?

Can you imagine that?

You could always send a hug,

to all your Blog Friends,

Or go out and find a Zebra.

No matter what you decide to do

or who you hug .

Have a wonderful day!

Poem written  by Dianne dsphotocats

Dianne © dsphotocats

 

 

 

 

These photos were taken a few years ago at the Toronto Zoo. It was a very bright sunny summer day. The sun was harsh in the top photo but the pose was perfect. I just happened to be around at the right time. I will gladly sacrifice perfect lighting for this perfect pose. I couldn’t believe my eyes when the mother zebra put its legs around her baby in the form of a hug. Isn’t nature wonderful! I think it is awesome how God makes even the animals to have such affection towards their own. God uses His Creation to show us His Love. At least that is my experience. God can reveal Himself to anyone who is truly seeking to find Him.

Romans Chapter 1:20  For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead so that they are without excuse.

Isaiah 55:6  Seek The Lord while He may be found. Call upon Him while He is near.

I even think of our dear pets and how they show us so much Love and Affection. What a Blessing they are to us. God can use anything that He created to reveal Himself to us. God is not limited. He is Almighty, and the Author of Love. God is Spirit, and God is  Love in it’s Purest Form.

Although it is not until Feb. 14th, I would like to wish you all a Happy Valentines Day.

Love and Hugs to all my Blogger Friends

Dianne :)

Jelly At The Zoo

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Moon Jellyfish

 

 

When a person goes to the Zoo most people think of Lions, Tigers, Giraffes, Elephants, Monkeys and such. I decided back in Sept. I would check out a few different species in the Pavilions. I found it challenging due to the lighting in these buildings, and of course the crowds of onlookers, but thought I would give it a try.

I could spend hours at the zoo in awe of all the amazing animals that I see, and want to see. I find it so fascinating. I think I could spend weeks there and not have enough time to spend with all my animal friends. I love animals and so does the One who Created them all. What an imagination our God and Creator has to make such a vast diversity of life on this planet called earth, and we humans haven’t discovered it all yet and probably never will. Scientists are no match for God The Creator of all life, including them. :)

These pictures were taken at the Toronto Zoo which has over 5000 different animal species to see. At some point I will post some of my other zoo pictures.

I will leave information on the Moon Jellyfish at the end of this post for anyone who may be interested in reading it and finding out some fascinating information on this animal. There are plenty of good sites on the internet as well.

I haven’t been out with my camera in quite awhile due to life circumstances. It has been on the shelf for now, but when the time is right I will be back out capturing the beauty that surrounds me each and every day. For now I am just thankful for eyes to see the things around me day by day. I am thankful for many things in my life. Life is precious. I hope to find you all well. Thank you for those of you who remember my mom in your prayers as she suffers from Chronic Kidney Disease. Life is challenging and an uphill battle for her. She is very courageous, and a woman of Faith. I am a much better person because of my mom. She has always been there for me, and I for her.

Hope you all take care and have a wonderful week whatever you do or don’t do.

Until next time and I hope to visit you all soon.

xx’s Dianne :)

 

 

 

Moon jellyfish

 

Location at the Toronto Zoo: Australasia

Region:

Australasia

 

Scientific Name:

Aurelia aurita

Description

: Jellyfish are ancient creatures. Fossils have been found in rocks that are 650 million years old. Today there are more than 2000 species. Jellyfish are 95% water, 3% protein, and 1% mineral. There are four life stages from birth to adult. There is no backbone, brain, or heart. Adults drift with the currents, but can swim horizontally by pulsations of the bell to keep close to the surface. A primitive nerve net controls muscle contractions as it swims. The adult form is a transparent bell shape that ranges between 5 and 40 cm wide. Underneath is a central mouth surrounded by four oral arms that carry the stinging tentacles. From above, four crescent shaped gonads surround the mouth. On the rim of the bell are eight sets of eye spots sensitive to light and eight statocysts that help orient jellyfish when swimming. Jellyfish are primitive organisms with an outer layer (ectoderm) that covers the external surface and an inner layer (endoderm) that lines the gut. Between these is a jelly layer or mesoglea. The simple digestive cavity acts as a gullet, stomach, and intestine. There is one opening between the oral arms that acts as a mouth, anus, and entrance for sperm (in females).

Distribution

: Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans.

Habitat

: Shallow coastal waters as well as brackish waters with a salt content as low as 0.6 %. Jellyfish can survive in water from 6 ˚C to 31 ˚C. The optimum temperature is 9 ˚C to 19 ˚C.

Food

: Jellyfish are carnivorous plankton eaters. They feed on fish eggs and larval fish and other plankton, such as mollusks, crustaceans, and copepods etc. Food is collected on the mucus surface of the jellyfish and by the tentacles. Flagellar action of the tentacles passes the food items to the margin of the bell and then up into the mouth and stomach.

Reproduction and Development

: Jellyfish are either male or female. Sexual reproduction begins when a male medusa releases sperm through its mouth. The sperm swim into the mouth of a nearby female where fertilization occurs. Further development into free swimming planula (larval stage) occurs in brood pouches along the oral arms. The planula settle on the ocean floor and attach to the bottom forming the polyp. Polyps bud asexually to produce free swimming larvae known as ephyra, which grow into the adult medusa.

Adaptations

: The transparent body makes a jellyfish less visible to predators. Oral arms have tentacles that carry nematocysts (stinging cells) that stun prey or deter predators. About 70 species are harmful to humans. The medusa can shrink in size when food is scarce and grow when it is abundant. Radial symmetry permits finding food in any direction.

Threats to Survival

: Predators include sea turtles, ocean sunfish, spade fish, tuna, swordfish, and other large fish. Humans, particularly in some Asian countries, capture and eat dried non-venomous jellyfish.

Status

: IUCN: Not Evaluated; CITES: Not Listed.

Zoo Diet

: Cyclopeeze, and live brine shrimp.

Sunset

 

 

 

 

 

As I was walking I came upon this sunset.

It was a cold night but I didn’t notice or feel the cold while I admired and focused in on the the radiant light that filled the sky and washed over me.

The trees looked so pretty all dressed in a  lace of silhouettes.

The sky was glowing on the edge of night.

I thought to myself , there is a time for the sun to set and a time for the sun to rise.

It is all part of God’s Plan.

May the sun follow you and make your heart glow.

And may you feel its warmth where ever you go.

And when it’s dark

Just rest in Him.

And remember, The Sun Will Rise Again.

Written by Dianne © dsphotocats

 

 

 

 Darkness Gives Way To The Light

Sunrise!

 

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I hope you are all doing well.

ox Dianne :)

New Beginnings and A New Year

 

 

Baby Michael’s First Christmas

               

 

           Baby Hope’s First Christmas

Hope, Tesa, Jenna and Courtney.

 

 

It seems strange looking back when we have a New Year ahead of us with new beginnings. I haven’t had a lot of time to reflect on this past year, but one thing that stands out for me personally is what a Blessing my Family, and my Grandchildren are to me. Life and Family are precious treasures that I hold dearly. Friends are treasures I hold dearly also. I am so Blessed beyond measure. I have so much to be thankful for.

This past year I have been Blessed with two more of Grandma’s Little Angels as I like to call them. :)

Hope was born premature back in May, and with God’s Grace she has come a long way, and is doing just fine, and just had her first Christmas. Thank you for all who kept her, and us in your prayers for her safe arrival. God heard each and every prayer.

Baby Michael arrived not long after and experienced his first Christmas also. We as a family are so Blessed. Thank you for all who prayed for his safe arrival also.

I now have 5 Grandchildren. Time keeps ticking as the years come and go. Life goes on. We can look back and reflect, and then must move on, and look forward to a New Year and New Beginnings. I am reminded of Ecclesiastes 3 in the Bible, where it talks about “There is a time for everything under the sun.

 

As a New Year is upon us we hope for a Happy New Year filled with good things. We all have things we wish for ourselves, and those we hold dearly, friends and family.

The reality is that life is full of good things , and also many hardships, and even disappointments. It is filled with many Happy moments, and also sad moments and even losses. None of us know what is down the road on our Journey Of Life. None of us know what this year will bring but we have Hope for a bright future. In saying all of this I want to wish and pray that each and every one of you will have a Happy and Healthy New Year, and God’s strength, and endurance to get over the times when the road may be a  rough. Keep loving, sharing with friends, and family, and your neighbors, as well as new persons you will meet along your path. There may even be those you will need to forgive, and hopefully reconcile with. Life is too short not to show one another Grace.

I know this post is wordy and long. I haven’t been able to post as much but many of you remain in my thoughts, and prayers. Thank you for your friendship, prayers and support. I look forward to visiting you and your blogs when I can.

Love and Care

Dianne :)

 

I will leave a portion of Ecclesiastics 3 for those who may want to read it.

God Bless each and everyone who may stop by and those who leave their heart prints. Thank you.

Happy New Year !!!

 

…….. 

 

 

Ecclesiastes 3 (New International Version)

 

A Time for Everything

¹ There is a time for everything,
   and a season for every activity under the heavens:

² a time to be born and a time to die,
   a time to plant and a time to uproot,
³ a time to kill and a time to heal,
   a time to tear down and a time to build,
⁴ a time to weep and a time to laugh,
   a time to mourn and a time to dance,
⁵ a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
   a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
⁶ a time to search and a time to give up,
   a time to keep and a time to throw away,
⁷ a time to tear and a time to mend,
   a time to be silent and a time to speak,
⁸ a time to love and a time to hate,
   a time for war and a time for peace.

⁹ What do workers gain from their toil? ¹⁰ I have seen the burden God has laid on the human race. ¹¹ He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet^[a] no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end. ¹² I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. ¹³ That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God. ¹⁴ I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that people will fear him.

¹⁵ Whatever is has already been,
   and what will be has been before;
   and God will call the past to account.^[b]