Author Archives: joyocala

Marcus Aurelius, known as the Last of the Good Emperors of Rome and an author of stoic philosophical work, advised the following: “When you wake up in the morning, tell yourself: the people I deal with today will be meddling, … Continue reading →

The Spongy Moth Caterpillar, formerly known by a disparaging ethnic name, has returned for a repeat engagement in the woods of the Green Mountain State. It is truly awesome, scary but awesome. When I refer to awesome power, I’m not … Continue reading →

I was around 14 when I decided to read the Bible through in a year. I recall from that endeavor the discovery of Genesis 3:15. God says to the serpent who tempted Eve and Adam: “I will put enmity between … Continue reading →

 Do you ever get lost? I rarely get lost, but I do admit to some unplanned exploring. In these situations Paulette usually says, “You’re lost! And like all men you just refuse to ask for directions!” She’s not alone in … Continue reading →

My mother was a photo album freak. She made personalized ones for my brother and me. This morning I looked through my #2 – the high school years. Honestly, I was searching for inspiration, something to write about. Part of … Continue reading →

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.” These well-known words open the … Continue reading →

        Philippians 4:6-7 “Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”         Are … Continue reading →

I recently received a gift from a girl friend of over 50 years.  It was a coffee cup with these words written on it. “Good morning, Patty. I’ll be handling all your problems today”. The cup was a wonderful gift … Continue reading →

In my school teaching days we shared this joke: “This form is important. Fill it out in 30 copies, one for yourself, one for your principal, and 28 to lose in the Board of Education files.” I’ve never known a … Continue reading →

One day, Grampa told me the story of his arrival in America. It was May 24, 1883 when the family arrived at Castle Garden in New York. Grampa never forgot the crowds and turmoil in the city that day. It … Continue reading →